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FALL 2016

I Do
planning the
rehearsal
dinner

How to Stay
Within Your
Budget

Complimentary

a Publication of

THE CURRENT
& GAZETTE

Newspapers

Choosing
a Hotel
for Your
Guests
Youre Invited!

I Do

BriDal sHow

October 23rd
see inside for more
information

Destination wedding trends

Located on the boardwalk and just steps from the


beach in Ocean City, The Flanders Hotel is one of New Jerseys
most historic and luxurious seaside celebration destinations

I DO BRIDAL SHOW

The Flanders Hotel, Sunday October 23, 2016


Free! Doors Open at 1:00PM ~ Fashion Show Starts at 3:00PM
FOOD & BEVERAGES
DOOR PRIZE DRAWINGS TO REGISTERED BRIDES
REGISTER AHEAD TO WIN: shorenewstoday.com/idobridal
The Boardwalk & Eleventh Street, Ocean City, NJ
609.399.1000 1.866.OCHOTEL

Luxury Suites

Penthouses

www.theflandershotel.com
www.facebook.com/theflandershotel

Heated Outdoor Pool

Have the
perfect hair
for your
Fashion, vendors, prizes perfect day
A fashion show is planned and all registered brides will be eligible to win prizes.

at I Do Fall Bridal Fair

Hair & make-up


services &
packages
for the bride,
bridesmaids and
ower girls

Hundreds of brides are expected whenThe Gazette andThe Current Newspapers host their 2016
I Do Fall Bridal Fair 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23 atThe Flanders Hotel in Ocean City.
There will be a fashion show, and all registered brides will be eligible to win prizes. Register in
advance at shorenewstoday.com by clicking the I Do ad, or on site the day of the event.
Future brides will have the opportunity to meet with a variety of wedding experts and vendors,
including photographers,videographers,DJs,florists,tanning salons,beauty salons and caterers all
while enjoying the beautiful elegance of the historic Flanders Hotel, 719 E. 11th St. in Ocean City.
Prospective vendors are invited to call 609-601-5182 or email stacy.wagner@shorenewstoday.
com for more information.

I Do Bridal

Phone: 609-601-5200, 609-624-8900


Classified Advertising: 609-382-4132
General news: current@shorenewstoday.com
Sports news: sports@shorenewstoday.com

PUBLISHER: Mark L. Blum


GENERAL MANAGER: Anthony Falduto
EDITOR: James FitzPatrick, 609-601-5191
ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Joan Kostiuk, 609-601-5190
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Emily Lingo, 609-601-5192
REGIONAL SALES MANAGER: Susan Papay, 609-601-5186
ADVERTISING: Charles Fahy, Roxann Grant, Thomas Hernon,
Alaine Krajicek, Meg Perry, Joe Rosasco, Morgan Scully,
Amanda Schmidt, Stacy Wagner
PRODUCTION/CREATIVE MANAGER: Paul Scully
CIRCULATION: 272-1011, Option 1
I Do is a special publication of Catamaran Media Company, LLC. Mailing
address is P.O. Box 619, Northfield, NJ 08225. Business offices are located
at 206 W. Parkway Drive, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234. Catamaran
Media Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

OPEN

Monday 2pm-7pm
Tuesday 10am-4pm
Wednesday 10am-5pm
Thursday 11am-7pm
Friday 10am-6pm
Saturday 9am-3pm

2505 Bayshore Road Villas, NJ 08251


609-886-1713
Evening Appointments Available Upon Request

www.hairandmakeupnj.com

facebook.com/thestudiohairmakeup
3

FOR THE BIG DAYS


SURROUNDING
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GOURMET BAKERY
A wedding cake is the crown and glory of your special
day and a reflection of your personality.
Trust Luscious & Sweet to create one of the most
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Dont forget your Grooms Cake too.
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324 South Pitney Road, Galloway, NJ 08205


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To Order Call Tricia at (609) 748-2400 x106


319 South Pitney Road, Galloway, NJ 08205
www.lusciousandsweet.com

The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

Join us for our


Fall Bridal Open House
Sunday, October 30th
1:00pm to 3:00pm
Pre-register at
www.carriagebridal.eventbrite.com

ti f

The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

Engagement photo should match your style


Engagement photos vary depending on the
couple. Often reserved for save-the-date cards
and now commonly used to spruce up wedding
websites, engagement photos can range from
formal shoots in which couples are dressed to
the nines to more laid back shots featuring
couples in more everyday attire.
When planning an engagement shoot,
couples should give themselves carte blanche
with regard to style,as the photo shoot need not
follow many of the more accepted rules that the
wedding itself will ultimately adhere to. Once
couples have settled on a style for their photo
shoot, there are additional ways to ensure the
session is a success:
Find a photographer who shares your sensibilities. Photographers can vary greatly in style,
and an engagement photo shoot will be most
successful when couples find a photographer
whose style matches the theme they are looking
for with their photo shoot.You likely would not
hire a nature photographer to photograph a
basketball game, so dont hire someone who
specializes in posed shots if you want your photos
to be more lively and spontaneous. Before you
hire anyone, ask for samples of each photographers work to be certain youre getting
someone who has experiencing shooting the
type of photos you want to take.

Solicit ideas from the photographer. Some


couples already know exactly where they want
their engagement photos to be shot and which
poses they want to be arranged.However,many
couples have little or no experience with professional photo shoots, and such couples should
solicit ideas from each photographer they are
considering hiring. A skilled and/or seasoned
photographer should propose several ideas. Be
wary of photographers who offer little input, as
you may ultimately be dissatisfied with their
work once the shoot has come and gone.
Avoid studio shots.Many couples prefer their
engagement photos be taken somewhere they
have a personal connection to, such as the sight
of their first date or a park they frequently visit.
Studio photo shoots might provide the best
lighting,but couples have no connection to such
spaces, and down the road they may regret not
taking the photos in someplace thats a little
more meaningful. In addition, a photo shoot
outside the studio affords couples and their
photographer more opportunities to experiment and improvise,which can produce a wider
array of shots than a studio photo shoot is likely
to deliver.
Dont forget candid shots.Candid shots make
the photo shoot more fun and loosen couples up
a little bit. Many engagement photos will never

An engagement photo shoot should be fun and reflect the personalities of the couple.

be seen by anyone other than the photographer


and the couple he or she is shooting, so dont be
bashful during candid shots for fear of being
embarrassed down the road. Have fun with the
candid shots, and your other photos are likely

to come out better as a result.


An engagement photo shoot should be fun
and reflect the personalities of the couple.A few
simple strategies can ensure couples shoots
accomplish both of those things.

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The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

MAGNIFICENT WATERFRONT
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of Farley Marina, Chart House at the Golden Nugget offers
the ideal ambiance for your rehearsal dinner, engagement party
or bridal shower. With the freshest fish specialities and
award-winning prime rib we are sure to create the
perfect event from beginning to end.

At the Golden Nugget Huron Ave. & Brigantine Blvd. 609-340-5030


chart-house.com
The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

Steering clear of wedding music mistakes means couples have a greater


likelihood of throwing spectacular parties.

FIRST EVER CLOSEOUT SALE!

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Guest Books, Pens, Flutes, Cake Sets,
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Favors, Cake Toppers, Frames, Hankies, Garters,
Novelties, Stationery, Gifts, Unity Candles,
Card Boxes, Shawls, Gloves, Planners, Sandals,
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Closed for inventory 10/22/16

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8

Avoid these
music mistakes

Wedding guests look forward to the


reception, where they can let loose and
party and music is an essential
component of a lively and fun wedding
reception. Here are some musical
miscues couples may want to avoid to
ensure that their music is not
memorable for all the wrong reasons.
Blocks of silence: Always have a
constant flow of music to avoid
awkward silences. This includes the
time guests are waiting prior to the
ceremony as well as when they are
entering the cocktail hour. Music will
help everyone feel comfortable, and it
creates a pleasing atmosphere, so
make sure music plays throughout the
festivities.
Second-guessing a professional: In
an effort to curb costs, some couples
provide their own playlists via an mp3
player or a streaming service. This
could be a mistake. Hiring a professional means you will not have to
worry about managing music on top
of your many other wedding day
responsibilities. A band or DJ usually
also serves as the emcee for the event,
announcing key moments of the
reception as well as getting guests up

on the dance floor.


Playing only one type of music:
Playing too many songs from one
genre of music can alienate guests
who are not interested in that type of
m u si c . P ro f e s si o na l D Js a n d
performers know how to offer a great
mix that will appeal to the masses, and
they are often well worth the cost. Try
to span different decades and genres
to keep as many of your guests on the
dance floor as possible.
Failure to make a song list: Couples
may feel that some songs are essential
to their wedding, while there are
others they would rather not hear for
whatever reason. Band leaders and
DJs are not mind readers. Provide a
list, and give your band leader or DJ
ample time to review your requests so
that he or she has time to find a song
that may not be in his or her collection.
Dancing to long songs: Pay
attention to a songs length, and
choose spotlight dance songs wisely.
Remember that guests will be
watching you dance with parents or
each other, and a five-minute song can
seem never-ending while others are
waiting around. Avoid very long

The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

Expect 120 guests at an average wedding

The average wedding costs about $30,000,


according to 2015 survey statistics released
earlier this year byWeddingWire.
The average cost of a wedding remains close
to $30,000,with couples spending roughly $250
per guest to attend, said Andy Whittaker,
director of market insights at WeddingWire, a
leading online marketplace for connecting
consumers and wedding professionals.
Couples tell us that determining a budget
is their top challenge and they are increasingly
looking to mobile tools to help with overall
planning,Whittaker said. With an average of
13 months from engagement to wedding day,
brides and grooms should start planning as early
as possible to ensure they secure their desired
dates and preferred vendors.
The 2015 Newlywed Report details statistics
and trends across the wedding planning process
from pre-engagement to the big day. Key
findings from this years report include:
Average number of wedding guests: 120
Average spend on engagement ring: $4,758
Average wedding ceremony/reception cost:
$28,958
Average spend on honeymoon: $3,882
The most expensive markets to get married
in are NewYork City, San Francisco, Chicago,
Boston, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and

Los Angeles.
The average wedding costs in the five largest
metro areas are New York City, $47,153; Los
Angeles, 34,289; Chicago, $37,153; Houston,
$32,614; and Philadelphia, $34,982.
The most popular days to get engaged are
Christmas Day,Valentines Day, Christmas Eve,
and NewYears Day.
Average engagement period is 13 months and
the most popular months to get married are June,
May, September, October,August, and July.
Planning time spent online amounts to 80
percent, according to WeddingWire. Online
resources used for planning in 66 percent using
a checklist,59 percent using a wedding website,
and 40 percent creating a wedding hashtag.
Most important factors for couples deciding
to contact a vendor include price,reviews,availability and location.
The average spend by vendor category
includes venue,$8,798;catering,$6,877;band,
$3,848; photography, $2,435, and rehearsal
dinner, $1,935.
Couplesareincreasinglytailoringtheirwedding
day to express their personal style and customs.
From fashion and decor to catering and
entertainment, WeddingWire tracks the style
trends of the moment that we expect to see
continue, said Kim Forrest, wedding trend

The average wedding costs about $30,000, according to 2015 survey statistics
released earlier this year by WeddingWire.

expert and editor atWeddingWire.


Dcor trends include metallic hues of gold
and copper, floral arrangements with lots of
greenery (particularly eucalyptus,) and love
signage in lights or flowers hanging in
unexpected places.
Fashion trends include low necklines and
backs, sheer paneling, and grooms in cobalt/
midnight blue suits.
In catering,look for hometown cuisine (e.g.,
mini Philly cheesesteaks or SoCal fish tacos).
Dessert trends include cakes with textured
white butter cream over fondant, and donuts.
Entertainment trends include photo/GIF
booths,and first dance to Ed SheeransThinking
Out Loud(the 2016 Grammy Song of theYear).

The 2015 Newlywed Report consists of data


collected from WeddingWires annual
Newlywed Survey, distributed to registered
WeddingWire couples married between Jan. 1
and Dec. 31, 2015.
Respondents represent couples from all over
the United States with various ages, ethnicities,
household incomes and sexual orientation.
In 2015,WeddingWire conducted research
with nearly 150,000 brides, grooms, wedding
guests, family members and wedding/event
professionals. Research can be found at wedinsights.com.
WeddingWire,Inc.hosts 10 million monthly
unique users across its mobile and web
platforms.

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The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

We capture your
special day for memories
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Call Paul; cell 609.972.5543
1240 Lafayette St Cape May, NJ 08204
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email: capesherminator@hotmail.com

Factors to consider when choosing a wedding photography package


Couples must make a host of
important decisions when planning
their weddings. Some decisions, such
as choosing a venue to host the
reception, require more effort and
research on the part of couples than
others. One decision that couples must
make carefully concerns the photography package they choose for their
ceremonies and receptions.
Wedding photographers play a
big role on a couples big day, and
its important that men and women
about to tie the knot consider a host
of factors before choosing the men
or women they will ultimately task
with visually documenting their
wedding days.
Engagement photo shoot: Couples
who want to do an engagement photo
shoot may want to negotiate such a
shoot into their photography package.
Some agencies include engagement
shoots in their packages while others
do not. If the engagement photo shoot
is on your list of needs, then look for
an agency that provides such services
as part of its packages or agencies
willing to include the engagement
photo shoot for free or for an added fee.

10

Party size: The number of people


on the guest list should factor into
your choice of wedding photographer.
If your guest list is especially large,
then you might want to consider hiring
two or more photographers to
document the day. Many agencies
offer separate packages for couples
who want one photographer and
couples who prefer two or more
photographers, so it pays to examine
the price differences between such
packages to see if more than one
photographer can fit into your budget.
Couples with relatively small guest
lists can typically get by with just a
single photographer to document their
ceremonies and receptions.
Travel: When discussing a wedding
photography package, ask how much
travel is included in the package. This
is important for couples whose
ceremonies are in a separate location
from their receptions. If the distance
between the ceremony site and the
reception venue is considerable, you
may have to pay extra for the photographer to travel between both sites.
While a reasonable amount of travel
is typically included in a photography

The number of people on the guest list should factor into your choice of
wedding photographer.

package, its best that you confirm this


prior to signing an agreement.
Videography: Many photography
agencies also offer videography
services in some of their wedding

packages. Videography can be a great


way for couples to document their
wedding days, and it can be fun for
couples to watch their wedding videos
with their families down the road.

The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

The rehearsal dinner doesnt have to be a lavish affair


Many couples find their rehearsal dinners to
be relaxing respites from the whirlwind of
wedding planning.Such dinners enable the happy
couple to slow down and enjoy themselves in a
relatively casual gathering with their closest
friends and family members.
Rehearsal dinners typically take place in the
night or two before the wedding. The couple,
members of their wedding party, the parents of
the bride and groom and others involved in the
wedding typically attend this dinner.
The couple generally takes the time at the
dinner to thank everyone for their contributions
to the wedding and to offer some small gifts of
appreciation.No rules govern rehearsal dinners,
so couples have the freedom to plan the dinners
as they see fit.
Rehearsal dinners often come immediately
after the ceremony rehearsal,when the wedding
party and the officiant go over the timing and
details of the wedding.Make arrangements with
the ceremony site and officiant prior to making
dinner reservations.
Parents of the groom traditionally host the
rehearsal dinner, so they will be integral in
planning the event.That means couples should
keep an open and gracious mind.
Remember,the rehearsal dinner doesnt have
to be a lavish affair, and it can be customized to

any budget or preference.Some couples feel that


hosting rehearsal dinners in casual settings can
make the dinner more comfortable for members
of the wedding, who can use the dinner as an
opportunity to mingle and get to know one
another before the wedding. This will help to
tame nerves and enable the wedding party to
loosen up and enjoy themselves even more.Some
people may be more inclined to socialize and
have fun when theyre not worried about putting
on airs.
Restaurants that have special meaning to the
couple often make for great places to hold
rehearsal dinners. The bride and groom can
suggest their ideas,but ultimately it is the person
handling the bill who has the final say.
Couples who want greater control over the
rehearsal dinner festivities can suggest hosting
it themselves. Despite its name, the rehearsal
dinner doesnt actually have to be a dinner, as
couples can opt for meals at a different time of
the day,like brunch or lunch.An earlier occasion
gives guests plenty of time to get home and rest
up for the festivities of the wedding to come.
Toasts are expected at the rehearsal dinner,
but they tend to be spontaneous, off-the-cuff
remarks.A couple with a good sense of humor
might not mind being roasted at their rehearsal
dinners.The bride and groom should expect to

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Rehearsal dinners provide an opportunity for couples and their families to spend time
together before the larger festivities of the wedding pull them in multiple directions.

say a few words of thanks to all in attendance,


but remarks need not be too formal.
Rehearsal dinners may even feature a little
entertainment. Tech-savvy parents may put
together a presentation with videos or photographs that chronicles the couples lives

separately and their life together.


Rehearsal dinners provide an opportunity for
couples and their families to spend time together
before the larger festivities of the wedding pull
them in multiple directions. Plus, they set a fun
tone for the wedding weekend to come.

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The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

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The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

Trends to consider when taking your big day on the road


Personalization was a prevalent destination
wedding theme in 2015, as couples sought ways
to customize their experience.
In 2016,brides and grooms alike are focusing
on incorporating distinct elements and seeking
new-to-them locales that they can share with
loved ones, according to a new report from the
DestinationWeddingsTravel Group.
Among the reports findings:
Intimate celebrations still reign supreme with
weddings averaging 28 guests.Even if smaller in
size, the party continues on for multiple days,
with guests staying an average of four days, and
the couple for seven.
Planning timelines continue to fall in line
with more traditional, at-home weddings, with
couples spending an average of 11.6 months
preparing for the big day.
Destination celebrations persist as a family
friendly option, with 88 percent of weddings
including children in the guest count.
While the price of at-home weddings has
increased rapidly over the years,the average cost
of destination weddings for Destination
WeddingsTravel Groups customer has remained
under $10,000 for over a decade.
When couples take their wedding on the
road, they can uncover savings throughout many
points in the planning process, said Richard

Calvert, president and CEO of Destination


WeddingsTravel Group. Even those who arent
necessarily seeking to trim expenses will find that
they have extra room in their budget for upgrades
and add-ons to enhance their experience.
In addition to industry statistics, the report
cites top destination wedding trends,including:
Rustic glam is the new shabby chic couples
are embracing this blend as a way to incorporate
luxury accents while still maintaining a downto-earth vibe.
Locally sourced foods and florals are on the
rise as a cost-effective strategy showcasing the
culture of the chosen destination
Couples are finding new ways to integrate
technology in their destination wedding as they
take advantage of things like custom Snapchat
geofilters and 3D printing.
Tropical paradises Mexico, Jamaica, the
Bahamas and Costa Rica still top the list of hot
spots to tie the knot, with Iceland, Canada and
Italy emerging as popular locales for couples
looking to go off the beaten path.
The Destination Weddings Trend Report
2016 also takes a look at the continued rise of
LGBT destination weddings as the one-year
anniversary of marriage equality comes to pass.
Today, same-sex couples find that they are
much less limited when it comes to where they

Tropical paradises Mexico, Jamaica, the Bahamas and Costa Rica still top the
list of hot spots to tie the knot, with Iceland, Canada and Italy emerging as
popular locales for couples looking to go off the beaten path.

tie the knot,said Calvert,attributing this in part


to the record growth. Whether they want to
celebrate their nuptials in Ireland,Spain or Cape
Town, South Africa, they are able to customize
their destination wedding to fit their preferences, be it an adventure-packed vacation or a
tranquil, relaxing getaway.

The report also highlights the rapid development of the industry by looking back at some
of the top celebrity destination weddings that
took place this past year.
The DestinationWeddingsTrend Report 2016
can be found in its entirety at http://www.destinationweddings.com/media/trendreport2016/.

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The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

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The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

You can save money and still wed in style


While many couples have a limit on what they plan to spend
on their wedding, a recent Consumer Reports survey found that
many of them go over budget,with some even dipping into savings
and retirement accounts to pay for the occasion.
ConsumerReportssurveyed464Americanswhodhadawedding
reception in the last five years.About 78 percent reported having a
budget for their reception but almost two-thirds of those who
went over budget said they had overspent by at least 20 percent.
To pay for the reception, 41 percent said they withdrew from
savings; 11 percent took out a loan from a bank or credit union;
and 9 percent, all under age 50, withdrew some money from a
401(k), 403(b) or IRA a move that can trigger a tax penalty.
To determine why some people go over budget, Consumer
Reports sent secret shoppers out to determine whether couples
planning a wedding are being overcharged.
CR had pairs of shoppers call the same photographers,florists,
limousine services, caterers and other party vendors at least a
week apart to get estimates for parties that were identical in every
respect except one: one caller said the event was a wedding, and
the other said it was a 50th anniversary party.They gathered prices
from 40 vendors in 12 states. In more than a quarter of the cases,
vendors quoted higher prices for the wedding than for the
anniversary party.
Among the findings uncovered by the Consumer Reports
investigation were built-in wedding-based gratuities up to 26
percent and a $7-per-person cake-cutting fee buried in some
caterers fine print; photographers who inflated their prices
because the affair was a wedding; and limousine companies that

priced bridal packages higher than comparable services.


If youre planning a wedding, you need to be aware that you
may be paying a premium for products and services in some cases,
saidTobie Stanger, senior editor at Consumer Reports.You may
not think to bargain, but you should.While our findings arent
enough to indict an entire industry, theyre a warning to wedding
shoppers to read fine print, ask smart questions, and negotiate
before signing anything.
The full report, Get MoreWedding forYour Money, appears in
theJune2016issueofConsumerReportsandatconsumerreports.org.
The article also features 31 money-saving strategies, advice
on avoiding wedding-shoppinggotchas,what to spend on a dress
and wedding planner, and how much guests should give as a gift.
According to The Wedding report, American couples now
spend an average of $27,000 on a wedding. But there are ways to
keep a lid on costs. Below are some money-saving strategies:
Negotiate. Consumer Reports secret shoppers were able to
strike deals with vendors including limousine companies,photographers and florists. Its worth asking for a lower price.
Choose a low-demand season, day or time of day. In many
areas, January and February weddings are the least expensive.
Friday and Sunday weddings are less costly than those on Saturday
nights. Booking a venue before dinnertime for lunch or brunch
can also yield savings.
Compare buffet and sit-down pricing. Surprisingly, a buffet
may sometimes be more costly because people eat more, and
often there is more variety offered than with a sit-down menu.
Save on alcohol. Limit the open bar to a certain amount of

According to The Wedding report, American couples


now spend an average of $27,000 on a wedding.

time. Forgoing premium brands in favor of the venues house


spirits can also reduce costs. Another option is to find a caterer
that allows you to provide the booze; then you can take home
what hasnt been used.
Skip the favors or do them yourself.If you do hand out favors,give
something people may really use.Not everyone will take the favor,so
order enough for half the guests and still expect to see leftovers.
Consumer Reports is a nonprofit consumer organization
founded in 1936 that seeks to improve the lives of consumers by
driving marketplace change. It tests and rates thousands of
products and services in its labs, auto test center and consumer
research center. Consumers Union, a division of Consumer
Reports, works for pro-consumer laws and regulations. Learn
more at consumerreports.org.

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The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

15

Brides turn to professionals


for hair and makeup

A majority of brides-to-be seek the support of professionals


to create their perfect wedding day look, according to a recently
released survey fromWeddingWire Inc.
In the 2016 Wedding Day Look Survey asked 6,500 couples
from 21 major cities across the nation questions about their
wedding day preparations, hair styles, accessories and and overall
wedding trends.
According to the survey, nine out of 10 respondents have
their hair and makeup done professionally and do a trial in
advance of the big day. More than 40 percent also want
members of their wedding party to have their hair done professionally, and about half expect their bridesmaids to cover the
cost. Only a third of brides expect their wedding party to have
their makeup done professionally; 56 percent of brides say its
the bridal partys choice.
Brides and grooms want to look like the best versions of
themselves on their wedding day, said Kim Forrest, editor at
WeddingWire.Were also seeing hair and makeup looks tie into
the general wedding theme so that everything feels cohesive
more natural, fresh-faced styles for casual weddings and more
glamorous looks for formal weddings.
According to the survey,the most popular hairstyle is an updo,
with 40 percent of brides across the nation sporting the look for
their big day. Other popular styles include half-up (35 percent),
with curly (32 percent), wavy (25 percent) or even braided
elements (16 percent).

Veils are worn by 65 percent of brides, followed by a clip,


comb or barrette. Veils are most popular in Boston, Cincinnati
and Houston.
The top 10 preparations before a wedding day are manicure
(96 percent),pedicure (91 percent),waxing (60 percent),haircut
(58 percent), teeth whitening (56 percent), false eyelashes (56
percent), hair color/highlights (51 percent), spray tan (23
percent), hair extensions (21 percent), and dental work (braces,
veneers) (8 percent)
The survey also asked about wedding styles and where they
are most likely (and least likely) to be found:
Bohemian: San Francisco (least likely:Atlanta)
Classic: Cleveland (least likely: Phoenix)
Romantic: Manhattan (least likely: Denver, Cincinnati)
Preppy: Baltimore (least likely: all of California; Dallas)
Modern: Manhattan (least likely: Cincinnati)
Formal: Long Island, N.Y. (least likely: San Diego, Denver)
Boho chic: Los Angeles (least likely: Detroit)
Vintage: Cincinnati (least likely: Boston)
Rustic: Charlotte, N.C.; Denver (least likely: Manhattan)
Laid Back: Denver (least likely: Long Island)
Glamorous: Manhattan (least likely: Seattle)
Eco-conscious:San Francisco,Seattle (least likely:Cincinnati).
WeddingWire Inc. is an online marketplace connecting
consumers with wedding and event professionals. Learn more at
weddingwire.com.

The most popular bride hairstyle is an updo, with 40


percent of brides across the nation sporting the look
for their big day. Other popular styles include half-up
(35 percent), with curly (32 percent), wavy (25 percent)
or even braided elements (16 percent).

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The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

19

Consider budget, amenities when booking rooms for guests


Wedding planning can seem overwhelming at times, but
couples also tend to have a lot of fun when making preparations
for their big day.
Whether its sampling various cuisines for their wedding
reception or researching potential honeymoon destinations,
couples have much to look forward to as they delve deeper into
their wedding planning.
Oneofthemoreenjoyableaspectsofweddingplanningisfinding
lodging for out-of-town guests.Hotels come in all shapes and sizes,
and visiting various hotels and seeing what each has to offer can be
fun.As couples set out to find lodging for their out-of-town guests,
the following factors should be taken into consideration.

Number of guests

Even if you have yet to pare down the guest list, you may have
an idea of how many guests you hope to invite to your wedding.
Peruse your preliminary guest list to determine how many of
those potential invitees may need lodging.
Some hotels wont offer discounted room blocks without a
minimum number of guests, so try to find a hotel or hotels that
can accommodate your group size and still offer a discount on
their usual rates.

If your ceremony and reception are in a more remote location,


then try to find a hotel thats nearby so guests do not spend the
bulk of their time behind the wheel while they are in town.
If you simply cant find a hotel thats close to your ceremony
and reception locations, then arrange for bus transportation so
guests can get to and from the reception safely and soundly.

Location

Amenities

Location bears considerable weight when choosing a hotel for


your out-of-town wedding guests. If you are tying the knot in a
large city, guests are less likely to rent cars for the weekend, so
look for a hotel with access to restaurants and other attractions
your guests can enjoy while they are in town.

Whether guests are driving or flying in, the cost of travel is already hitting them in the pocketbook, so finding
hotels that offer budget-friendly rates for wedding parties should be a priority.

Out-of-town guests will have more free time on their hands


than the bride- and groom-to-be, so consider the amenities each
hotel you visit has to offer. On-site exercise facilities, pools and
outdoor lounge areas all can help guests fill the hours before the
wedding and enjoy some rest and relaxation.

Maries

In addition, hotels with on-site restaurants or those next door


to restaurants can provide convenient places for guests to eat and
meet up with fellow guests.

Cost

Like location,cost is a significant consideration when choosing


a hotel for your out-of-town guests. Whether such guests are
driving or flying in, the cost of travel is already hitting them in
the pocketbook, so finding hotels that offer budget-friendly rates
for wedding parties should be a priority.
Finding a hotel for out-of-town wedding guests is an enjoyable
element of wedding planning. Couples should consider a host of
factors before making their final decisions.

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How brides are using social media to share,


discover and plan their wedding journey

Brides are using social media more than ever to announce their
engagement, share moments of their wedding planning journey,
discover new ideas, connect with vendors, and post their
honeymoon experiences,according to a 2016 social media survey
byThe Knot.
Social media isnt just a distraction from wedding planning;
its actually influencing wedding decisions in new and different
ways,said Kellie Gould,editor in chief ofThe Knot.Nearly eight
out of 10 couples report implementing an idea they found on
social media that they had not previously considered.
Sixty percent of brides surveyed reported announcing their
engagement on social media within 24 hours of saying yes, and
86 percent shared their news within the first week.Once engaged,
62 percent report increasing their social media usage, with seven
out of 10 admitting to using social media for wedding planning
more than anything else.The top three social media channels used
during wedding planning are Pinterest (89 percent), Instagram
(38 percent) and Facebook (38 percent).
Once the word is out,couples focus on creating a personalized
wedding hashtag to share photos leading up to and throughout
the wedding day.Sixty-six percent of couples,up 11 percent from
2014, plan on using or have used a personalized hashtag in
conjunction with their wedding.
Some 82 percent of couples created a unique hashtag within the
firstsixmonthsoftheirengagement.Hashtagsaresuchanimportant
mark of personalization that 64 percent of couples surveyed said

they searched social media to make sure their hashtag was uniquely
theirs, and 74 percent created a second if theirs was taken.
Couples spread the word about their hashtag by including it
on their personal wedding website (46 percent), and printing it
on reception tent cards (25 percent), wedding programs (22
percent), save-the-date cards (18 percent) and formal invitations
(10 percent).In addition to encouraging friends and family to use
their wedding hashtag, 26 percent of brides reported asking
vendors to also use their hashtag when posting photos related to
their wedding.
Only 30 percent of brides reported being aware they could
create and purchase a custom Snapchat geofilter for their wedding
day and wedding-related events, and of those, 44 percent created
one and used it.
Of those who used Instagram for both wedding planning and
inspiration (46 percent),one in four (26 percent) reported hiring
a wedding vendor they discovered on Instagram. Nearly eight of
10 brides reported implementing an idea they found on social
media but hadnt seen anywhere else.
Most couples leave the posting to guests on the wedding day,
with three out of four couples saying they want to be disconnected
from social media on the big day. Nine out of 10 wedding guests
age 18-24 and 61 percent of guests age 35-50 posted about their
friend or family members wedding on social media.
Although most couples arent using social on their wedding
day, 27 percent admitted to posting at some point during the

H el p i n

Sixty percent of brides surveyed reported announcing


their engagement on social media within 24 hours of
saying yes, and 86 percent shared their news within
the first week

day, and 30 percent requested a few photos from their photographer to share. Some 30 percent of brides asked to approve any
images their photographer posted on social media prior to their
going public.
Some 70 percent of brides admitted to sharing about their
nuptials on social media within 24 hours of getting hitched, and
70 percent post throughout their honeymoon.
For more information see theknot.com.

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The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

Contemporary choirs, satellite bars among 2016 wedding trends


From satellite bars and two-in-one-dresses
to choirs performing rock ballads as brides walk
down the aisle or couples take their first dance,
2016 trends have taken wedding traditions to a
whole new level,according to a recently released
survey fromThe Knot.
Weddings are more personalized than ever,
said Kellie Gould, editor in chief of The Knot.
Couples are taking entertainment up a notch by
hiring contemporary choirs that will sing an a
cappella version of their first dance song, and
upgrading the signature cocktail to satellite bars
featuringspecialtydrinkswithengravedglassware
and elaborate garnishes. Guys are even upping
their grooming game and stepping into the
spotlight more with custom suits and accessories.

Two-in-one dresses
and fashion florals

Instead of making a complete dress change


from the ceremony to the reception, brides are
opting for convertible dresses that can transform
fromaformalgowntoafunreceptionfrock.Picture
adramaticfeatherskirtoverlaythatisremovedafter
theceremonytorevealalacecolumngownyoucan
hitthedancefloorin.Anothertrendisvibrantfloralprinteddressesanddresseswith3-Dfloralappliqus;
botharefloodingthebridalrunways.Cantcommit
to a gown?Try a flower crown.

Wedding concierge services

If an extra hand is needed to execute any


element of the day that falls out of the realm of
traditional planner duties, there is a pro, and
many times an app, for that. Services include
proposal assistance, bridesmaids for hire,
bachelor party planning gurus, social media
mavens and speechwriters.The Knot can even
help couples find a venue with its free Venue
Concierge Service. Brides can hire someone to
tackle the jobs they dont have time for,including
live-tweeting their wedding day or training their
four-legged ring bearer.

Satellite bars

In addition to the beer and wine setup and


standard mixed drinks, this second bar is designated for a special spirit. Its a great way to
personalize the party with your favorite libation
or serve a tasting of preferred wines.You can try
some twists on the classic margarita or tasteful
shooters. Personalize one step further with
colored glassware,infused ice cubes or elaborate
garnishes, like smoke, that will wow guests.

Contemporary choirs and


late-night karaoke

This years trend is choirs. Think

20-person ensembles with a-cappella


abilities. Surprise guests by hiring a marching
band or gospel choir and have them perform
a favorite rock ballad for the walk down the
aisle or an a-cappella version of the first
dance song. And if youre hosting an afterparty, a basic karaoke setup and some photo
booth props is all you need to keep the party
going. Watching friends and family belt out
their favorite 90s hits is priceless.

Sweet endings

Cakes are getting a design update with


graphic prints and textile-like motifs,while plain
tiers can be used as a canvas for projecting video
displays.And the wedding cake is no longer the
only dessert on the menu. Passed treats,
especially of the frozen variety like shaved ice
or fruit-infused ice pops with the couples names
on the stick are trending,along with installations
like doughnut walls.

Wow-worthy websites

Weddings have become weekend-long


celebrations, regardless of destination,
making wedding websites a must-have for all
the details guests need. Enter the web
designer. Couples are hiring design gurus to
create custom sites with personalized details

and made-to-order illustrations. The Knot


wedding website tool offers more than 80
designs that can be personalized to include
a couples favorite photos and links to their
registries. Some even offer matching invitations.

Total personalization

The new wedding tells a couples story,


meaning a complete customization of details that
goes beyond monogrammed cocktail napkins.
From serving the couples favorite dish from a
local restaurant or having an ordained family
member officiate the ceremony,elements reflect
the the couples tastes and interests.Couples are
even choosing themes that represent the two of
them, like a techy bash or a StarWars-inspired
after-party.

3-D printing

The use of 3-D printers is on the rise, and


the trend is being seen in weddings.Couples are
creating 3-D save-the-dates that set the vibe for
a modern celebration, and even making a 3-D
printed cake topper that looks just like the bride
and groom. Some are even taking 3-D printing
to the next level by printing bridesmaids jewelry
and groomsmens cufflinks to gift.
See TrendS on Page 26

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25

7 tips for a great honeymoon


A couples honeymoon is their first real chance to relax and
unwind after the hustle and bustle of wedding planning. Couples
who want to make sure their first getaway as husband and wife
goes off without a hitch might want to heed the following advice:
1. Start saving early. Honeymoons are expensive, so to afford
the vacation of your dreams its wise to begin saving for the
honeymoon as early as possible. It may be well worth it to
compromise and make sacrifices in other areas to ensure you have
enough funds for your dream honeymoon getaway.Do not expect
cash gifts at your wedding to pay for your trip. If you do, you may
be sorely disappointed when the time comes to get away.
2. Read online reviews. Online reviews can paint an accurate
picture of a potential honeymoon destination.Look at vacationersupplied photographs to see how the accommodations match up
to the resorts own marketing materials.You dont want too many
surprises, such as service fees, dirty rooms or a lack of beach
amenities to ruin your trip.

3.Plan at least one exciting outing.While on your honeymoon,


be sure to go on at least one adventure.Try an activity you have
never done before such as snorkeling, traveling a zip line or
swimming with stingrays.
4.Packearly.Afteralongweddingdayandreceptionspentdancing
intotheweehoursofthemorning,youprobablydonotwanttospend
time packing. Pack your suitcases and travel essentials in advance of
yourweddingdaysoyouhavemoretimetosleepinbeforeyoudepart
for the airport.Also, remember not to over-pack.You want to have
room for the souvenirs you purchase along the way.
5. Enjoy your surroundings. Put down the smartphone or
tablet long enough to truly enjoy your surroundings.A honeymoon
is an opportunity to relax, and that may not be possible if youre
tied to your devices. Friends at home can wait for your status
updates and wedding pictures.
6. Splurge on something expensive.Whether its an ultrafancy dinner or an exotic souvenir, indulge during this once-

Trends

Youve heard of the second dress; now guys want a unique


reception look,too.Custom suits with embroidered monograms,
velvet loafers and personalized cufflinks give guys more style
options than ever before.Grooms are switching to a dinner jacket
for the reception or making a wardrobe change with a different
bow tie and pocket square. Some grooms are even starting their
wedding prep early with treatments like teeth whitening,
manicures and regular beard trims.Rounding up the groomsmen
for a pre-ceremony shave can add to the fun while guaranteeing
a well-groomed wedding party.

continued from Page 25

Food-inspired floral elements

Bouquets and centerpieces are getting a style boost thanks to untraditionalfloralelementslikefruitandvegetables.Couplesareevenincluding


ingredients off the dinner menu in their centerpieces, like kale or
artichokes.Pickonefavorite,likeberries,andincludetheminbouquets,
centerpieces and any installations for a cohesive take on the trend.

Stylish grooms

Make sure ou put down the smartphone or tablet


long enough to truly enjoy your surroundings during
your honeymoon.

in-a-lifetime experience.
7. Leave your itinerary open.After scores of wedding appointmentsandwatchingtheclock,itsnicetoflybytheseatofyourpants.

Locally sourced food

Some wedding menus will mimic the offerings of the local


farm-to-table restaurant. Good food, both in taste and provenance,
isplayingagreaterroleindinnerfare.Healthyitingredientsinclude
kaleandsproutedgrains.Sourceingredientsfromtheweddinglocale
and make them the cornerstone of the menu.Consider asking a chef
to customize a meal or serve guests family style.

Metallic palettes

Its all about shimmer and shine this year. Metallics play well
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The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

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Your wedding at Atlantic City Country Club will be nothing short of spectacular. Our newly renovated clubhouse boasts
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Known as one of Americas oldest and most prestigious golf clubs, Atlantic City Country Club is the perfect setting for
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PHOTO CREDIT SEASHORE PHOTO

The Gazettes & Currents / FALL 2016 I Do! Wedding Preview

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