edding

Stylish ideas
Wedding Gown Trends
& top styles for bridesmaid dresses
Unbridled Bride:
The royal treatment
 edding
4 Four hot engagement rings 28 Tailor flavors to colors with cupcakes
6 Past meets present 30 Preserve the moment
7 Center of attention 31 Eight wedding invitation ideas
8 Contemporary weddings 33 Top invite questions answered
10 What Boulder brides are buying 33 Five gifts to repay bridesmaids for work
12 Colors to flatter all bridesmaids 34 Five people you need to thank
14 Eco-friendly wedding ideas
15 The Unbridled bride: The royal treatment
18 Creative ways to ask bridesmaids Features Coordinator: Greg Stone
Contributing Writers: L.L. Charles, Judy Finman, Julie Kailus,
20 Save wedding cost: custom centerpieces
Nica Rognmoe, Adam Rowan
23 How to give a wedding toast Special Thanks: Shawn Rodine, Lindsey Sharp, Dina Touchon
24 Planning the perfect reception
Wedding is a feature of Prairie Mountain Publishing.
26 Nontraditional wedding sites For advertising information, call 303.473.1400. Copyright 2010.

Weddings. 2011 3
Engagement Rings: Four hot engagement ring trends
By McClatchy-Tribune Information Services diamond, which results in an amazing display
Localized by Judy Finman, Daily Camera of light.”

A re you engagement ring shopping

Custom ring designs
Brides are all about personalizing
sometime soon? As if picking out
their wedding days, and in 2010, they’re
the perfect engagement ring weren’t
customizing their engagement rings too. In
already nerve-racking enough, read up on the
fact, nearly 70 percent of brides get involved
four hot ring trends that will make narrowing
in the ring selection process. There’s been
down your pick that much harder.
an increase in special orders for brides who
want to combine all of the design elements
Geometric shapes
they love into one picture-perfect ring. When
Take a trip back to high-school math
you’re ring shopping, ask to see different
class. Remember all those fun shapes you
diamond shapes and sizes; then, show the
encountered while you were trying to learn
jeweler what kind of band you’d like designed.
your points from your intersections? They’re
Today, about a third of engagement rings are
back! Many of today’s hottest rings are all
custom-designed, so you’ll be right in the mix!
about geometry. Pears, ovals, marquise, and
And don’t worry; the jeweler will work with
even heart-shaped diamonds make for an
you.
architectural engagement ring that’s both eye-
“The beauty of custom design is being able
catching and unique.
to create unique wedding jewelry to fit your
“A round brilliant diamond is by far the
distinctive taste and individual lifestyle,” says
most popular shape, but other geometrical
Hogsett. “Our master goldsmith can sculpt
shapes are certainly in demand,” says Gail
your design in wax and fabricate it the metal
Hogsett of Walters & Hogsett Fine Jewelers
and color of your choice. Also, many leading
in Boulder. “The ‘Dream Diamond’ by Hearts
wedding lines now offer computer-aided
On Fire, a square-shape diamond with cut
artwork, an invaluable aid for the jeweler and
corners, has facets similar to their round

“
A ll of our pictures were perfect.
She did a great job of mixing the
styles of photos; there were some journal-
istic, some posed and some totally candid.
She got pictures of everyone! The planning
process was simple and effortless. I would
recommend Michele without reservation
to anyone looking for a photographer to
capture any occasion. She delivers 120%.”

- Hannah and James McNeill of Boulder, CO

773-454-4020
www.Rogers-ScullyPhotography.com
michele.photoi@gmail.com
4 Weddings 2011.
the couple to create individual
rings.”
Gold and rose-gold
bands
White metals, like platinum,
will always be popular with
brides, but gold bands are
making a big comeback this
year. This is partly thanks to the
reemergence of retro-inspired
elements in pop culture that have
become a hit with brides. Rose-
gold settings are ideal for the
vintage-loving bride looking for
a ring with a more nostalgic feel.
Gold can also be a more budget-
friendly option, depending on
the market price.
“We notice yellow gold
beginning to come back,” says
Darline Brown, owner of The
Little Jewel in Boulder. “Because
of the price of gold going up,
people want the look of gold.”
Hogsett adds, “From the
simplicity of a plain band to the
combination of metal colors and
artistic design, bridal jewelry in
rose gold has a warm richness.
Rose gold blends beautifully with
white or yellow metals, whether
in a polished or brushed finish.”
Intricate bands
An embellished band with
intricate details – whether
they’re in the shape, etchings, or
stones – adds that extra-special
something to an engagement
ring. Ribbon-twist bands and
Where to go:
Cronin Jewelers, 1235 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303.440.4222
The Little Jewel, 1225 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.443.3353
Walters & Hogsett Fine Jewelers, 2425 Canyon Blvd., #J, Boulder
303.449.2626, www.waltersandhogsett.com
split-shank bands are popular
alternatives to the more
traditional styles.
“Intricate wedding bands
can be delicate, with pierced
or filigree designs, scattered
diamonds or colored gemstones
and intriguing wirework,” says
Hogsett. “Or they can be bold,
with a distinctive design that’s
carved, woven or hammered into
the metal. Because platinum is
very dense and malleable, it’s
perfect for creating delicate and
pierced designs without bulk.
Gold is ideal to weave or layer
with multiple metal colors and
patterns.”
Brown comments, “With
diamond engagement rings, a
simple solitaire is popular if you
have an intricate band. We’re
selling bands with sapphires and
diamonds. Sapphires are popular
for the band of the engagement
ring.”
For the more budget-
conscious, Hogsett says, “In
addition to these precious
metals, there are a number of
alternative metals such as cobalt
chrome, damascus steel and
titanium for more affordable, but
very handsome wedding bands.
Bands can be customized to
your preferred thickness, width
and design.” Brown notices
that some couples are choosing
titanium bands, especially for the
man, and less so, sterling silver
bands.
Weddings. 2011 5
 Past meets present: Spring brides favor
ballgowns, vintage looks
By Kristyn Schiavone, Tribune Media Services
I
n recent years, the princess wedding
look has gotten lukewarm recep-
tion, with women favoring less fussy
wedding gowns that go with their successful
careers, thriving social lives and want, not
need, for a husband.
Until now. The ballgown is back.
But, to the delight of brides who want
to enjoy their weddings without drowning
in several pounds of fabric, designers have
lightened up this silhouette with specialty
materials like tulle and organza, which move
and breathe more easily than satin. It’s a
low-fat ballgown, and really, what could be
more modern?
Among the wedding gown heavy-hitters
is Monique Lhuillier, whose wedding gowns
have adorned Carrie Underwood, Ashley
Simpson and Alicia Silverstone. She’s also
had more than a few ready-to-wear designs
hit the red carpet, including on Catherine
Zeta-Jones and Mandy Moore at this year’s
Golden Globes.
Lori Weil, sales director for Monique Lhu-
illier, says the label used to sell significantly
fewer ballgowns than straight or trumpet
silhouettes, but these days it’s about 50/50.
“I think girls are returning to some tradi-
tion,” Weil said. “Even with smaller wed-
dings, they still want the dress.”
For a fairy-tale wedding, the perfect dress
could be a tulle ballgown with a corset top,
like the “Bellflower” style Lhuillier sent
down the runway for her spring 2011 col-
lection. There are also many brides sticking
with the tried-and-true trumpet style, also
with lighter fabrics for this season and often
embellishments.
“Trumpet dresses are a signature, and we
call it 1940s glamour,” Weil said.
Weil also said vintage styles have been
popular since about 2004. Lhuillier has been
a trendsetter when it comes to this look, like
the 1930s-style lace gown “Cheyenne” from
her spring collection.
“[The gowns reflect] a modern girl’s im-
age of sex appeal but have a vintage feel,”
Weil said.
Katelyn Beltz, manager of 826 Weddings
in Chicago, which sells off-the-rack gowns
at a range of price points, said with the ball-
gown trend comes a trend toward romantic
fabrics and styling, like textured fabrics,
ruching, and layering with ruffles or gathers.
She’s also seen a lot of mixed textures, like
lace with chiffon.
Recently, the store’s best-selling dress has
been a drop-waist, A-line, silk organza dress
with a ruched bodice and ruffled train. And
yes, the train is still in style, as is a veil, with
about 60 percent of the store’s customers
choosing one.
After designing gowns for 25 years, Laza-
ro Perez, whose line (Lazaro) is sold through course, there are a lot of ballgowns.
J.L.M. Couture, has developed a keen eye for “There was a time when it was a very
trends. This year, his collection is character- narrow silhouette, and now we’re seeing the
ized by fabric manipulation, such as tufting ballgown come back out, which I adore,”
and gathering, and mixing hard and soft. Of Perez said. “I think the red carpet has a
lot to do with it - we’re seeing a lot of full
ballgowns there - and we’re in this whole
recession, so there’s something opulent and
glamorous about a ballgown.”
He said he expects to continue the trend
in his next collection, which will feature
ballgowns with natural waist bodices. A fa-
vorite from this year has more than 90 yards
of gathered organza. There are also subtle
pastels in Perez’s current collection, like
sherbet, a peachy color created from layering
fabrics of different colors.
Perez said there’s really no particular body
type that’s ideal for a ballgown - or a trum-
pet, or any other style, for that matter. He
advises going to gown fittings with an open
mind, because something entirely unexpect-
ed may be the perfect dress.
“I think it’s all up to the bride,” Perez
said. “The bride sees herself that day in a
certain way, and who are we to say ‘No, you
shouldn’t wear that.’”
6 Weddings 2011.
 Center of attention: Bridal gowns trend toward
elaborate while bridesmaids tone it down
By Emily Hughey Quinn,
Tribune Media Services
A
ttention, girls. If the fancy white
gown isn’t enough to showcase
your bridal self the way you
always dreamed, this is the summer for you.
“It’s funny because it seems that wedding
dresses are getting more and more elaborate
while bridesmaids dresses are getting simpler
by the moment,” says Jes Gordon, celebrity
event producer and author of “Party Like
a Rock Star” (GPP Life, $19.95). “Bridal
gowns have crazy embellishments on them
such as fabric rosettes, feathers, tulle and
even fur.”
For summer brides who want to make a
big impression on the biggest day of their
lives, they picked the right season to wed.
Bridesmaids dresses are coming in simpler
styles to showcase bridal gowns more than
ever.
“Bridesmaids dresses are leaning more
towards an ‘everyday’ dress that brides-
maids can wear long after the wedding to an
evening affair or even to a work function,”
Gordon says. “The bridesmaids dresses are
staying economically friendly while bridal
gowns are going all out!”
A few key designers are here to help
brides go for the gusto this summer.
“Vera Wang always brings something wild
to the table as well as Amsale and Reem
Acra,” Gordon says. “All of these designers
tend to offer at least one showstopper in
their collections that the fairy tale bride just
has to have. Vera’s fabric rosette full skirt
design for this year’s spring collection is
pretty off the hook.”
However, the great news for brides of any
budget is that they won’t have to break the
bank to look fabulous.
“The bridal industry is a true testament to
the fact that money is not the only influ-
ence on style,” say Jodi Cohen and Sarah
Lowy, principles of Beverly Hills-based
event planning company, Jowy Productions.
“Brides and designers are getting more
creative and making unique choices in this
new economy.”
Vera Wang, for example, is teaming
up with David’s Bridal to create a line of
dresses in the $600 to $1,500 range. And
the current bridal darling is J.Crew, which
opened its first bridal-only boutique in New
York in May.
“J.Crew is emerging as an incredibly ap-
proachable and stylish wedding fashion-for-
ward design that I think is worth watching
and purchasing,” Gordon advises.
Elaine Aron, who’s planning an August
wedding in Santa Fe, chose gowns for her-
self and her ‘maids at J.Crew, where she fell
in love with the second dress she tried on.
“I wanted to go to J.Crew more than
anything else for the ease of the process,”
says Aron, who was intent on avoiding the
sensory overload of a bridal boutique or
superstore. “So it wasn’t even the prices, but
the fact that I knew the dresses were going
to be beautiful. I wanted something simple
and elegant and it so happened that there
were choices in my price range. It was just
genius. It was just an experience of feeling
beautiful and like I was being offered help,
but I wasn’t overwhelmed with a lot of op-
tions.”
“Designers are starting to take a more
realistic, affordable look at the bridal indus-
try,” say Cohen and Lowy. And, lucky for
style-savvy brides like Aron, who says she
spent about $375 on her flowy Grecian-style
dress, it’s affordable to look like you just
stepped out of a magazine. Designers are
making runway looks possible with embel-
lishments and new fabric choices.
“We are seeing floral embellishments
from large to small on many designers’
gowns,” say Cohen and Lowy. “Ruffles are
making a statement this season, specifically
ruffled tiers from the waste down. Ruffles
add texture and movement in a simple,
cost-effective yet romantic way. Another
way designers are adding interest to gowns
is through interesting fabric choices. Metallic
fabrics are strong this season whether used
in the flowers that adorn the gowns or for
the actual gowns themselves.”
And expect to see gowns in modern lines.
While a-line, strapless and empire-waist
gowns are always hot, asymmetrical contem-
porary designs, off-the-shoulder styles and
short, cocktail-length dresses are among the
season’s top trends.
“Strapless still seems to be the strongest
shape choice this season but asymmetrical
necklines are giving the strapless a run for
its money,” say Cohen and Lowy. “Expect to
see less shoulder and more neckline interest
as we head into summer. Mini-dresses are
the most unique shape that is trending this
season; they seem the ideal choice for a less
formal or a second wedding.”
Where to go: Bridesmaid Dresses including BHLDN (bhldn.com)
Anthropologie, 1805 29th St., #1118, Boulder, 303.449.4575
Weddings. 2011 7
 Contemporary weddings celebrate tradition, irony and humor
By Debra D. Bass, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services
The best-kept secret about dressing for your wedding is that
there are no rules, only guidelines.
anything that makes you feel stifled.
If you aren’t inspired by your choices, if
you don’t care, if you yawn at the thought
of your ceremony, then how do you expect
everyone else to feel? And why are you
spending all that money for a supremely
uninteresting experience?
Pardon us for interjecting our opinions
on your special day, but in our humble
opinions, the minute people start dress-
ing the way they are “supposed” to dress
because this is proper and this is not, that’s
the minute they hit the snooze button on
one of the most meaningful days of their
life.
isn’t a wedding rule that hasn’t been bro-
ken, so you don’t have to feel like a heretic.
A wedding is a ceremony of love and a
commitment to starting a new life with a
partner who shares your goals and dreams.
Shouldn’t that start with a wedding that re-
flects your style and your tastes and what’s
unique about you?
And having said that, we’ve taken the
most conventional recipe for wedding day
success and added a small twist, humor.
Maybe your something new will be
diamond stud earrings instead of a tattoo,
or your something blue will be a sapphire
brooch, instead of high heels and a Vespa,

T
radition is not a mandate. It should
not confine you. If you want to ex-
press yourself with some rituals or
conventions that have been adopted from
generations past, that’s great.
Wear grandmother’s brooch, buy a new
strand of pearls, borrow your mother’s dia-
mond bracelet and wear a blue garter belt
if that really rocks your world, but don’t do
Yes, you can wear a Cinderella dress on
the beach or a knee-length gown in church.
If buttercream and ivory are not your idea
of color, you can choose a gown in navy
blue or emerald green. The world will not
rock off its axis, and your grandma will not
faint from shock.
Even Martha Stewart’s wedding maga-
zine showed off a men’s black cummer-
bund on a wedding dress last year. There
but we wanted you to know that there are
no limits except your imagination and
your budget.
When you look back on your wed-
ding, just ask yourself what will be more
important, the approval of your Aunt Ruth
whom you see twice a year or the photos
of you wearing the antiqued pink gown
with chocolate crystal jewels that made you
look like Grace Kelly.

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8 Weddings 2011.
Something old

CHATEAUX
Brittani wears a Mag-
gie Sottero gown called
Destiny, the trumpet cut
strapless dress with crystal

FAMILY PRACTICE
organza and beads from
Clarice’s Bridal, in St. Louis,
and Schiaparelli earrings
circa 1950, a 1950s Austrian
crystal double-strand neck-
lace, vintage white gloves
and a Walborg beaded
evening bag, all of which
she found while shopping at
Retro 101, in St. Louis.

Something new
Brittani wears a dress by
Essense of Australia from
A Bride to Be Bridal Shop,
in St. Louis; chandelier
earrings by Jose and Marie
Berrera; Alex Bittar cuff
bracelet; and a necklace
from Neiman Marcus. Her
cage veil is from Clarice’s
Bridal. She’s getting a
“new” tattoo from artist
Joshua Chapman of Iron
Age, in St. Louis.

Something borrowed
Brittani wears the Avrile DR. CINDY SMITH
M.D., P.C.
strapless dress by Bellis-
sima with detachable train
at Simply Elegant Bridal,
St. Louis. Her accessories

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are Rivoli-style Swarovski
crystal earrings from Made
by Maggie and crystal spiral
bracelet by Poppi both at
Charm Boutique, St. Louis. Adult and Pediatric Medicine
Gynecology
Something blue
Brittani wears a short
Pediatrics
strapless dress from After
6’s Dessy collection and Workman’s Comp
shrug with large rosettes
and crystal stamins by All types of Physicals
Enzoani both from Simply
Elegant Bridal, in St. Louis;
tiara headband by Bel Aire
Laser Therapy
Bridal at A Bride to Be
Bridal, St. Louis; turquoise
drop earrings by Jose and
Marie Barrera at Neiman
Marcus; and teal blue heeled 13605 XAVIER LANE, BROOMFIELD
720-379-3013
sandals appropriately called
“Getting Hitched” by
Luichiny from Bronx Diba
Shoes, Earth City, Mo.

Weddings. 2011 9
 ......What Boulder
brides are buying
By Julie Kailus

H opefully Boulder brides are buying wedding dresses that

they love, says Barbara Wilson, owner of Christina’s. She
regularly reminds brides shopping at her bridal, lingerie and
accessories shop that they should think for themselves when selecting
the perfect dress.
“When choosing a gown, think independently,” she says. “The
opinions of those you trust can be helpful, but in the end the dress
should be the one that you love.” The right dress is one that not only
expresses your personality, but that also fits well and is very wear-
able. “Your dress should not only be beautiful, but also comfortable,
allowing you to exude
confidence rather than
focusing on your dress
all day,” says Wilson.
“Remember, confi-
dence equals beauty.”
Some of the most
popular dresses at
Christina’s are from the
Nicole Miller collec-
tion. “Nicole Miller
is defining feminin-
ity with strapless
dresses for understated
elegance and beautiful
sheaths,” says Wilson.

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10 Weddings 2011.
Christina’s also carries Sue Wong and ABS dresses, with prices under
$1,000. Styles range from embellished gowns to simple sheaths, and
princess-cut to sexy fitted dresses.
The right undergarments are also part of making a bridal dress
look its best. “A lot of brides worry about their hips, but the focus
is really on the bust and the face,” says Wilson. “Most photos are
shot from the waist up, focusing on the face, shoulders and torso, so
brides should choose a dress that tastefully enhances the bustline for
added femininity in photos.” The right bra and the latest shapewear,
for example, can put emphasis in all the right places.
While choosing a dress for such an important occasion can feel
overwhelming, Wilson says it doesn’t have to be, especially when
you choose a bridal shop that offers personalized service to help
you through the decision-making process. “Just enjoy the rite of
wedding-dress shopping,” she says.

Where to go:
Christina’s Luxuries
2425 Canyon Blvd.,
Suite 100Boulder
303.443.2421
christinasluxuries.com

Weddings. 2011 11
 Fashion Tip: Colors to flatter all of your bridesmaids
Local Boulder personal stylist gives her recommendations
J. Crew, Cotton taffeta By Marian Rothschild tones.

Y
Alisanne dress with
bow, $225.00 color: ou and all of your brides-
deep coral, also avail- maids arrive at the bridal
able in petite shop, prepared to pick out
their dresses. Sarah announces she
won’t wear green, Nicole refuses any
shades of blue, and Monica insists
that she has already decided on dress
style and color. She pulls out a photo
of a strapless mini dress in battle
ship grey and declares, “This is what
we’re wearing, girls! It looks great on
me.” That’s when the cat fight starts.
If you are dreading this scenario,
here are some guidelines to help ease
the pain of trying to please each and
every one of your female attendants.
All women look good in some
shade of both pink and coral. That’s
because we either have those colors
in our skin, or we can apply the color
with blush and lipstick. Cheek and lip
J. Crew Silk taffeta Blakely dress,
color: bright azalea, $250.00 also color should definitely be in the same
available in petite family as the shade of the gown they
wear, if it’s in the pink, coral, or red
Your bridesmaids may enjoy show-
ing their personal tastes and want to
choose their own color of dress. You
choose the style and each girl wears a
different color. That’s fine, as long as
there are no repeats.
Another option is to decide on a
certain color, and each girl chooses
the style of dress that she likes the
best. As long as there is some conti-
nuity in either color or style of dress,
they will all be a cohesive group.
Generally speaking, if a woman
has light hair, a light shade of dress
will look best on her. If her hair is
more-or-less dark, she’ll look best in
a more saturated tone of pigmenta-
tion.
If you plan to have only one at-
tendant and you are wearing white or
ivory, she should definitely not wear
the same, or any color close to it.
If she has either blue or green eyes,
she’ll be stunning in a dress the same
hue, and her eyes will sparkle.

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12 Weddings 2011.
 If you are using a makeup artist, be sure that person choos-
es cosmetic shades that will compliment both skin tone and
dress color. If the bridesmaids are doing their own makeup,
they may want to ask a professional for advice on choices of
cheek and lip stain.
The most complimentary shape of dress is one that flatters
the wearer’s unique figure. Usually a V neckline, defined waist,
and A line or tulip skirt will accomplish that. Also, a sash,
belt, ruching at the waist, a criss-cross or wrap top, and wide
shoulder straps will give a woman’s figure the appearance of a
balanced hour glass. That’s what we’re aiming for.
Bridesmaids are there to support and attend to the bride on
the most special day of her life. You want them to look great Create peace of mind knowing that your wedding
individually, and also as a group. But it is difficult to please all party and guests are transported on time,
the ladies, all the time. If you keep in mind skin tone, hair and
eye color when choosing colors of gowns for the bridal party,
door-to-door … easily, safely and comfortably!
and remember the importance of the hour glass shape when We coordinate reliable group transportation to
selecting styles, you will go a long way to achieving your goal. and from hotels, rehearsals, wedding sites, and
The best idea may be to seek advice from a professional
receptions. Our service removes your worries
color and wardrobe consultant. That way, you are assured to
get objective recommendations from an experienced expert.
about timely arrivals, departures, and driving
Everyone will be happy and look beautiful. Leave the cat fight concerns.
for someone else’s party. Thank you, Rene, for arranging safe, fun and classy transportation
for our daughter’s wedding guests in Boulder in June. We didn’t
worry about a thing with you in charge.
- Cindy and Charlie Jones, Boulder
Marian Rothschild is a personal stylist and
wardrobe consultant with Look Good Now.
For more style tips and a personal consultation
or group presentations, visit www. Forget-Me-Not Adventures in partnership with Sunset Limos and Express ChCharters
marianrothschild.com or call 720.933.9247. will take care of all your wedding transportation requirements
Contact Rene Moquin at (970) 586-3905 or ReneMoquin@beyondbb.com

Weddings. 2011 13
 Going Green: Five fun (and affordable)
eco-friendly wedding ideas
By Jen DeRose, WeddingChannel.com, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services

W ith ceremony season gearing up,

you’ve probably already received
a save-the-date or two. But there’s
another date worth noting on the calendar:
April 22nd is Earth Day. So whether you’re a
guest, groom, or bride, check out these ideas
for a wallet-friendly wedding season that’s as
sustainable as it is stylish.

The eco-chic gown

For an eco-chic bride, the silky Elsa
sheath by Mr. Larkin is a stunning option,
particularly because the silky fabric is cre-
ated from pressed, steamed milk fiber. The
bodice is adorned with recycled vintage
paillettes, and is so sexy that even Anne
Hathaway has rocked it. After the wedding,
consider donating your dress to a charity
organization such as the I Do Foundation.
This way, instead of collecting dust in a box,
the gown will be given a second life when
funds from its sale are donated to a
good cause.

The recycled registry

Registering for eco-friendly home es-
sentials is a great way to support green busi-
nesses. Between inviting the in-laws over for
dinner and hosting neighborhood barbecues,
you’ll welcome an extra set of tea towels
or two. Green goods shop BranchHome.
com sells bright and cheery ones made from
organic cotton and shipped in a recycled
cardboard package, so they are as good for
the earth as they are for your guests’ wallet.

The green guest

If you’re a guest who doesn’t have to
travel too far out of town, then consider
carpooling to the reception site. (It’s also a
great idea if you’re inclined to overindulge
in the champagne toast!) If the bride and
groom haven’t taken our heed and registered
for anything green, don’t be afraid to go
ahead and give a green gift that’s similar to decorating with candles (try natural beeswax asked brides on WeddingChannel.com which
something they have registered for. to avoid heavy synthetic fragrances) you’ll favor they least appreciated receiving as a
cast the room in a romantic glow. Skip the wedding guest, this was their number-one
The reception: unplugged DJ’s elaborate equipment, and instead dance gripe. Instead, try a pretty potted plant that
Cut down on the cost of electricity and the night away, unplugged, to a live band. guests can grow in their own yard. Take it
up the romance factor with classic mood a step further by applying chalkboard paint
lighting and live music. By starting your The eco-friendly favor around the exterior of terra cotta pots. Then
reception an hour before sunset, you can Don’t give departing friends and family add a personal note of thanks with colored
take advantage of the extra daylight, and by another monogrammed shot glass. When we chalk, in your color theme, of course!

14 Weddings 2011.
 The Unbridled Bride: The royal treatment
By Laura Noethiger, Charlotte Observer, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services

T here is nothing more absurd than planning your wedding the

same time as a royal couple.
I learned this when I read that Kate Middleton, Prince
William’s bride-to-be, quit her job so she can focus on making her
wedding “fresh and new.”
Kate is under extreme pressure, but she also has money and
resources that most brides dream of. Perhaps the most enviable
resource is all the free time she has now.
We all want a wedding that feels “fresh and new,” but we’ll wear
ourselves out until we feel old and haggard. Most of us lead busy
lives, and wedding planning is a job in and of itself. But the planning
must be done, so we end up letting ourselves go in the process.
But who says Kate Middleton gets to have all the fun? There are
simple and affordable ways to relax like royalty.

Here are 10 ideas:

Royals know when and how to delegate. Your friends and
family probably want to help out. And if you can afford it, consider
hiring a wedding planner or day-of planner.
Royals know how to look good in photos. Practice your
cheesiest “royal” smile and wave. You won’t really need to do this,
but smiling and acting goofy will make you feel relaxed. You can be
yourself when it’s time for a real photo. Relax with a massage By Adam Rowan

W
Royals have good posture. Book a massage or take up yoga. hat more could a
Royals are scheduled and organized. Get a monthly planner. bride, groom and
Post-it notes are also handy. If you remember something urgent, members of the
write it on a Post-it and put it in a prominent place to take care of party want before a wedding
the next day. It will release tension and keep you from obsessing. than rest and relaxation? A
massage can be the perfect way
Royals stay active. Take brisk outdoor walks. The fresh air, scen- to unwind from the stress of
ery and exercise are invigorating. planning, while hair, makeup,
Royals love their vacations. Plan on a weekend away with your nails and skincare treatments
fiance at a nearby city. can make everyone look as good
as they feel.
Royals show their best selves in public (or they should at “People just want to relax a
least). Allow yourself to vent in a private diary. It will keep you from few days before the wedding,”
taking things out on others. said Kim Niles, owner and man-
ager of Finishing Touch Spa and
Royals are busy and popular. Schedule other things to look
Salon, a Boulder business that
forward to besides the wedding. You want other exciting things
specializes in working with large
looming on your calendar to take the pressure off. Pencil in a weekly
groups. “It's a good opportunity
date night with your fiance, even if it’s just take-out and Netflix.
for friends and family to hang
Royals set boundaries. It’s impossible to please everyone, and out while they prepare.”
sometimes you and your fiance will need your privacy. Niles advises brides to stagger
their beautification to maximize
Royals aren’t afraid to be common. Princess Diana’s sapphire- effectiveness and minimize
and-diamond ring (which is now Kate’s ring), was originally a stress. A massage one or two
controversial choice. It wasn’t a custom-made piece. It was ordinary days before the wedding can
for royal standards, because commoners could buy it. And now it release tension and coincide
has spawned affordable knock-offs, proving that sensible choices are with big events like bridal and
the most timeless. bachelorette parties. Manicures,
pedicures and facials should be
Perhaps this is a lesson Kate can learn from Diana. done six to eight weeks before
If she wants to do something unexpected, she could set out for a the big day, though women with
more “common” wedding. That would be a good message to send in difficult complexions should
a recession.
What do you think, brides? Would you rather see an over-the-top
royal wedding or one that you can relate to? Or are you apathetic
Where to go:
about royal weddings? Finishing Touch, 3131 28th St., Boulder, 303.449.1852, finishingtouchspa.com
consider a second skincare
treatment two weeks before to
restore that glow.
Two weeks marks another
key step for brides-to-be: hair
and makeup. Though everyone
wants to look their best on the
wedding day, getting hair and
makeup done two weeks ahead
is a good trial run for your look.
“95 percent of brides want
to do a trial run for hair and
makeup,” Niles said. “It keeps
things simpler, and takes pres-
sure off the bride.”
Spa and salon treatments
aren't just for the bride and her
maids of honor, though. Men,
women, grandparents and “even
the little flower-girl” can benefit
inside and out by renewing and
relaxing before the wedding,
Niles said. Finding a spa and
salon capable of working with
multiple clients at once has even
more benefits, from giving rela-
tives time to see each other to
just having fun.
“It can be a little party-type
atmosphere,” Niles said. “You
don't have to give up prepara-
tions while you relax.”

Weddings. 2011 15
Take the Time for a Pre-Wedding Tan
E ngaged couples know how impor-
tant color coordination is. But while
they're thinking about everything
from outfits to centerpieces, brides- and
grooms-to-be should also be aware of how
their skin tones match their clothes – and
their soul mate's complexion.
“Weddings are the biggest, most pho-
tographed day of your life,” said Deborah
Magee, owner and operator of Life's a
Beach Tan Spa, a Longmont business where
couples make up a third of the clientele.
“There's nothing worse than seeing the
super-tan beach bunny standing next to the
abominable snowman.”
Black and gray suits tend to make a man
look paler, while a white wedding dress
accentuates the color of a bride with darker
skin. Magee recommends couples on the
verge of marriage make the choice to tan
together in order to get their skin roughly
the same color, making their appearance as
compatible as their personalities.
The first step in preparing your skin for
the big day is figuring out not just how you
want to look but how your complexion will
Where to go:
Life’s a Beach Tan Spa 2919 17th Ave # 110, Longmont 303.772.7766
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respond to tanning.
“Anyone with fair skin should ideally
start six to eight weeks before the wed-
ding so they don't risk pinking or burning,”
Magee said. “People with medium or darker
skin should start slow and give it at least a
month.”
Slowly working toward your tan has the
benefit of getting the precise tone you want
while also saving you considerable discom-
fort. Over-tanning can lead to a painful
sunburn and pink skin. It can also set back
your premarital skincare goals.
“We monitor clients' tans for health
reasons” Magee said. “If they burn in the
bed, they can't come back until the burn
heals. They lose about two to three days by
rushing.”
Taking the time to perfect your tan can
make brides, grooms and even whole wed-
ding parties look picture-perfect for the big
day. Tanning together is also just one more
activity couples can do during the engage-
ment to reaffirm their commitment to
each other while preparing for the perfect
ceremony.
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www.CoalCreekPlasticSurgery.com
16 Weddings 2011.
Wedding workout:
Follow these steps
to a honeymoon-
ready body
By Molly Klinefelter, McClatchy-Tribune
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services
A
ccording to Life Fitness, an exercise
equipment company, women are
increasingly viewing their wedding day
as a reason to trim down and shape up. By
following this simple timeline, any bride can be
toned and beautiful on their wedding day:
Six months ‘til the big day: Do three one-
hour workouts a week, with 20 minutes of
high-intensity cardio, 30 minutes of strength
training and 10 minutes of stretching. After
you’ve established a steady routine, focus on
the areas you want to flaunt in your dress.
Three months ‘til the big day: Take a wed
ding-focused fitness class with other brides-
to-be. Having a support group of brides will
not only be comforting but will also make you
work harder.
One month ‘til the big day: Don’t blow off
your workout schedule for last-minute wed-
ding errands. If you really don’t have time, do
a more intense but shorter version of
your routine.
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Weddings. 2011 17
 THE CHAPEL
Adorable • Affordable • Intimate

10 creative ways to
ask your friends to be
your bridesmaids
By Jaimie Dalessio, WeddingChannel.com

Boulder Center for Spiritual Living

805 Yale Road • Boulder • 303-942-1267
O nce all the buzz has calmed down after the proposal, it’s your
time to pop the other question to your bridesmaids. Here are
10 out-of-the-box ideas.
www.bouldercsl.org
Photo collage it
Enlist the help of a photogra-
pher friend to put together an
Years from now, when you look at your wedding album, accordion-like creative photo
you will see what your wedding looked like, who was card that opens up to display
there, but... your full question.
in your heart you will remember how you
Craft it
felt when you entered this beautiful church Get your craft on and create
and spoke the words “I do” paper-doll-cutout chains for
your girls. Write the name of
each bridesmaid on the indi-
Chapel rental vidual paper dolls, and then fold
available to ALL the chains so that each girl gets
denominations and her namesake paper doll at the
officiants as well as top. Mail them in cute enve-
Ceremonies officiated lopes with fancy handwriting or
by our pastor deliver in person.
• Seating capacity: 290 regardless of your
• We now have a new small chapel - affiliation. Make them a
seating capacity up to 40 people movie poster
• Wireless/lapel microphones Think outside the box and rip
• Air conditioning in sanctuary off a movie poster, like the one
(swamp cooler) from “27 Dresses” with Kath-
• Limited parking erine Heigl wearing a dress of
words. We love the idea of writ-
(but very close to city garage)
ing a note to your bridesmaid in
Call for appointment 303-442-6530
the shape of a wedding dress.
First Baptist Church
1237 Pine St. Hit the sweet tooth
Boulder 80302 Here’s a sweet way to ask your
www.fbc-boulderorg
best friends cute cookies in the
shapes of dresses from Flour-
PotCookies.com come prepack-
aged with tiny cards that ask the
big question.
Send a clever card
Pick up a card! There are tons
of cute “Be my bridesmaid”
cards available online with a
variety of styles. (We especially
love some of the ones we’ve
seen from Mr. Boddington’s
Studio and on Etsy.com.)
Say it with food
With a little practice, you could
spell out “Will you be my
bridesmaid?” in chocolate syrup
or frosting as you present your
friend with a sweet treat of
cupcakes or macaroons.
Get personal
Gift your bridesmaids-to-be
something monogrammed with
their names or initials. Think: a
wooden hanger (perfect for their
dress the day of the wedding) or
a tote bag.

18 Weddings 2011.
8. Wine and dine them
Take your girls out for dinner,
drinks or even a cup of coffee,
and ask them over a toast. You
can ask them all out as a group
or meet them out individually.
9. Make a photo strip
Combine a few favorite
photos with each friend onto
photo strips (try using Wink, by
Shutterfly; they’ll combine any
photos into a cute photo strip
for you) and include personal-
ized messages on the backs.
10. Just do it
If you’re not into making it a
big production, there’s noth-
ing wrong with simply asking.
Doing it in person is ideal, but a
heartfelt phone call will do the
trick too.

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We look forward to helping you
plan your special day

Weddings. 2011 19
 Saving on wedding costs by doing
own reception centerpieces
Do-it-yourself wedding centerpieces are one of the easiest ways to save on your reception costs.

By Karen Deer, St. Louis Post-Dispatch many of these items.

McClatchy-Tribune Information Services “This is where we come in,” says Kwapis.

L
ynn Jawitz, floral designer, event
coordinator and owner of Florisan
LLC in New York, says oversized
centerpieces “are so last year.”
For too long, brides with giant center-
pieces risked having guests get so annoyed
with the visual obstruction that they ditched
the offending flowers to the floor.
Today’s bride has more choices such as
glass cylinders, odd-shaped vases and float-
ing candles for beauty and drama. And once
the bride has decided on a color and theme
for her centerpieces, wedding rentals may be
the way to go for vases.
“We can help any bride plan the reception
of her dreams,” says Lea Kwapis, owner of
Grand Rental Station in Fairview Heights,
Mo.
Most brides have an idea of what they are
looking for in terms of decor but become
overwhelmed at the thought of purchasing
“We rent tables linens ... sparkling glass
centerpieces, vases, candelabras, backdrops,
champagne and chocolate fountains, china,
glassware and silver cake stands as well.”
Kwapis and Tracee Finnell, rental consul-
tant at Grand Rental Station, designed these
wedding centerpieces.
CANDY CENTERPIECE
($15 for supplies, $2 for hurricane vase
rental, $1 for cylinder vase rental)
• 1 wide glass cylinder (about 7 inches tall
and 3 inches wide)
• 3 large bags of peanut M&M’s (choose
themed colors)
• 5 large silk roses (or flowers of
your choice)
• 3 large green leaves Step 2- Cut five large bloom roses so the
• Floral tape stem is about 6 inches long. Assemble the
flowers into a small bouquet, securing to-
Step 1- Place a 7-inch glass cylinder inside gether with floral tape.
the hurricane vase. Fill area only between
hurricane and cylinder with candy. Step 3- Insert bouquet inside cylinder, fill-
ing any void with large green leaves.

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20 Weddings 2011.
 We love weddings!
BUTTERFLY VASE
($13 for supplies, $7 for vase
rental)
• 1 clear flared mouth glass
vase (approximately 28
inches tall)
• 1 large bag of glass stones,
any color
• 1 hydrangea flower head
(silk or fresh), any color
• 1 three-branched birch
stem (silk or fresh)
• 3 multicolored butterfly
accessories with wire stems

Step 1- Place glass stones into bottom of vase.

Step 2- Cut the silk hydrangea flower head from the stem, leaving
approximately a 1- to 2-inch stem. (If using fresh flowers, add water
before placing flower head in vase.) Nest the stem in the center of
the beads.
Step 3- Place one butterfly directly on bloom, using the wired stem
on the butterfly as an anchor.
Beautiful Flowers, Invitations, “Save the Dates”
Step 4- Trim from the bottom of either three individual birch 10% Discount if you Book Both Your
branches or one branch that has three extensions to fit inside of the Wedding Invitations and Flowers With Us
vase. Bend one of the three stems to house a wired butterfly in the
center of the design. The remaining two stems will be vertical. Place
branch(es) by nesting stem through hydrangea and into glass beads.
Step 5- Attach third wired butterfly to the tip of one of the two
vertical branches and set into place. florists, greenhouses & fine stationery
Note- For added sparkle, the vase can also be placed on top of a mir- 2851 Valmont, Boulder | 303-442-6663
rored tile (available for rent). www.sturtzandcopeland.com | Mon-Fri 8-6; Sat 8-5; Sun 10-5

Weddings. 2011 21
 POTPOURRI & CANDLES LIMES AND TAN-
• 1 cylinder vase ($8) at Big Lots GERINES
• 1 round bowl ($5.99) at ($25 for supplies,
Hobby Lobby $5 for vase rental)
• 1 bag of potpourri ($1) at • 1 24-inch cylinder
Dollar Tree glass vase
• 1 bottle of Gatorade ($1) at • 2 bags of small limes
Schnucks or any grocery chain (plastic or fresh)
• 1 floating candle ($7.99 for a • 1 bag of small
package of six) at Hobby Lobby tangerines (plastic
or fresh)
Step 1- Fill cylinder with Gatorade; add • 3 silk stems of
floating candle. Place cylinder inside round Dancing Lady
bowl. orchids
Step 2- Fill round bowl with potpourri. • 1 large forsythia
MARTINI GLASS Light floating candle. branch
• 1 martini glass ($1) at Dollar Tree • Ribbon for accent
• 1 Gerber daisy ($6.99 for a bunch of nine • Double stick tape/
flowers) at Hobby Lobby hot glue
• 1 candle ($3.99) at Hobby Lobby
• 2 mini Martini glasses (1.95 each) at Crate Step 1- Fill base with one bag limes
& Barrel, 1 The Boulevard Step 2- Fill vase with one bag of tangerines
• Crystal dazzlers ($4.99 for approximately Step 3- Fill the vase with the rest of the limes
100 crystals) at Hobby Lobby Step 4- Insert forsythia branch and Dancing
Lady orchids into vase
Step 1- Turn the martini glass upside down Step 5- Measure and cut ribbon to wrap
and place a Gerber daisy flower head under around the top of vase, secure with double
it. Place candle on stem base. stick tape or hot glue
Step 2- Add crystal dazzlers into the mini Tip- If using fresh flowers and fruit, add water
martini glasses. Place a mini martini glass on after vase is complete
each side of the martini glass.

S tarting with our

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22 Weddings 2011.
How to: Give a wedding toast
By Alexia Alejalde-Ruiz, Chicago Tribune,
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services

F or the legions of best men and maids of honor stumped about

what to say, Tom Haibeck, author of “Wedding Toasts Made
Easy”, offers some tips for preparing and delivering a
gorgeous toast:

DO:
Make it personal. Identify three
anecdotes that are humorous or
illustrate something the audience
might not know about the bride
or groom.
Use gentle humor, but be
mindful of your audience (don’t
offend grandma).
Rehearse, ideally in the venue.
Exercise the day of the
wedding to work off any
nervous energy.
End your toast with a positive
comment about the couple, and
raise your glass.
DO NOT:
Exceed five minutes. Ideally,
a toast should be two to
three minutes.
Try to be funny if you’re not.
Have a drink to calm your
nerves. One drink often leads to
another and before you know it
you’re sloshed.
Write out your speech and read
it word for word. Instead, jot
down some key points on
index cards.
Rely on canned wedding toasts
you buy off the Internet.

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Weddings. 2011 23
Planning the perfect reception
By: Nica Rognmoe

Y ou’ve dreamed about

the ceremony since you
were a little girl. Every-
thing goes perfectly. Then you
arrive at the reception. No one
brought the silverware and the
buffet runs out of food. You
have a chance to wake up before
this nightmare becomes a reality.
Few events in life take weeks,
if not months, to plan. Every
couple wants the day to go
smoothly. With your whole
family, new in-laws and friends
to impress, the details and
planning can seem overwhelm-
ing. You want to provide the
ambiance without blowing your
budget. Here are some general
guidelines to alleviate the stress
of planning and avoid potential
catastrophe.
Initial Plans
Most couples focus on the
budget first
first before they realize
what they jointly aspire for in
their reception. Creating a list of
common desires for your recep-
tion is the best way to know
who to start contacting next.
This means considering the
reception capacity, atmosphere,
vendors included, weather sensi-
tive alternatives and dancing
availability.
“No bride wants to imagine
that it may be 40 degrees, 90
mile an hour winds, with hail
falling from the sky on this par-
ticular day. But at least 4 times Hotel Boulderado Mezzanine,Hotel
PhotoBoulderado
by Adam & Imthiaz Photography
a year… we move to Plan B,”
explained Tina Mueller, a wed- responsible for. as wedding planners on your
ding coordinator for The Red Do you want a location that behalf. They will do the research
Lion Restaurant in Boulder. provides a package including on price estimates, provide a
most vendors or do you want list of recommended vendors,
Various Locations to set the tables yourself ? Some create timelines and offer the
Once you know your general locations will only provide the experience of handling about
qualifications
qualifications for venues, the space for your needs while you 100 weddings a year.
hunt begins. When compar- fill
fill in the details. “Some of my friends had
ing locations, consider how Hotels, such as the Boul- total disasters with their out-of-
much you want to be personally derado in Boulder, will act house wedding planners.

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24 Weddings 2011.
 Everything went smoothly for our reception, and our wedding
planners were included with the hotel, “ said Shelly Fowler, who had
a reception hosted at the Boulderado. ��na�s ��i�a�
Cutting Costs
One of the most recent trends seen throughout weddings ev- BLOWOUT SALE
erywhere is reducing expenses. You are your best advocate when it
comes to knowing finalfinal estimates.
on Designer Wedding Gowns $300 - $500

Allure
What are the hidden costs or fees? Which vendors are not includ-
ed in the price estimate for your venue? Your family may not break

�a���anc�
the bank with an open bar but what about the new in-laws?
The cost of having professionals handle details like photography

�a��� S���er�
or music can be high, but the quality of the experience can be worth
it. Instead of cutting corners where vendors are concerned, focus on

La Sposa
who are the most important people to have attending the reception.
With an average cost of 75 to well over 100 dollars a head, maybe
you don’t need to invite every coworker.
“Do you want a cake with inedible frosting provided by your
cousin or the professional quality of an expert?” Explained Tonya
Sue Tembrock, a Social Sales Manager at the Boulderado.
Anther way to alleviate costs is to consider restaurants. It can
range from 39 to 80 dollars a head instead. Restaurants, such as The
Red Lion, can also make fresh food for any unexpected guests.

Avoiding Disasters
Throughout the night, there are many traditions and events that
take place. If you don’t have a wedding planner or venue staff in
charge of timelines, appoint someone to be responsible for watching
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Weddings. 2011 25

Nontraditional wedding sites
By Monica Watrous, McClatchy Newspapers,
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services
W
hen Brooke and
William Hardy
mailed out wedding
invitations last year, their
guests were a bit puzzled.
“I heard, ‘You’re getting
married where?’ from more
than a few people,” Brooke
Hardy said.
The couple, who said “I
do” on top of The Kansas
City Public Library, is a testa-
ment to a growing wedding
trend. More brides are think-
ing outside the church and
lifting the veil on nontradi-
tional venues.
“It seems that brides and
grooms are being more cre-
ative with their wedding dol-
lars,” said Jenny Steffens, who
runs The Bliss List, a database
of forward-thinking wedding
vendors in Kansas City. “DIY
brides appreciate the freedom
of nontraditional venues.
There are not as many rules
Fly through the forest canopy to your
mountaintop wedding in Jamaica
and restrictions in a wide-open
field.”
We asked four area couples
about their surprising tie-the-
knot spots. Said Brooke Hardy
of her library nuptials: “A few
people even told me that it
was the best wedding to which
they’d ever been.”
The experts’ picks:
A farm or other picturesque
‘local destination’ wedding
venue
Historical site like an estate
or home that is open to the
public gives your event that
added gravitas
Art museum - classy, and
they often host events, so mu-
seum staffers will have sources
for food and music
A park, especially in the
spring, when Mother Nature
does all the decorating
26 Weddings 2011.
By Staff, McClatchy-Tribune, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services
L ooking to make your wedding just as adventurous as your
relationship? You can get married at a scenic overlook at 700
feet at Rain Forest Adventures Mystic Mountain in Ocho
Rios, Jamaica, which is creating high-flying romance with its wedding
package, “I Do at 700 Feet.”
Couples travel through the forest canopy on the Sky Explorer
chairlift up to the peak of Mystic Mountain, where views overlook
Ocho Rios harbor.
Ceremony venues include Mystic Mountain’s lawn and the Mystic
Pavilion restaurant. “I Do at 700 Feet” packages include a marriage
officer, bridal bouquet, groom boutonniere, on-site wedding coordi-
nator and professional photography. The venue can accommodate up
to 50 guests.
Packages also include:
- One-tier wedding cake.
- Two bottles of champagne
- Tropical decorations
- Wedding album with 24 professional photos and a CD
of digital images
- Marriage certificate and license fees
- Two witnesses (if none available)
- Legal processing of documents prior to wedding.
The resort also has a Rainforest Bobsled, a zip line course and infin-
ity pool and waterslide.
Packages begin at $1,000 without the room for the couple. Find out
more at www.rainforestadventure.com.
 Christina’s will inspire
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Weddings. 2011 27
 Cupcakes allow the bridal
couple to tailor flavors
and colors to the wedding
By Judy Hevrdejs, Chicago Tribune,
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services
C upcakes are whimsical,
easy to serve and may be
more cost-effective than
the traditional multitiered wed-
ding cake. They can also reflect
the bridal couple’s personalities
and tastes _ which is why they’re
so popular.
“Each tier (of a cupcake
stand) offers you the opportu-
nity to completely change the
cake and the icing. You can’t
do that with a traditional cake,”
said Bobbie Lloyd, president
and chief baking officer of New
York-based Magnolia Bakery.
“With cupcakes, (couples are)
looking more for flavor. You
may have one layer of pumpkin
cupcakes with maple-cream
cheese icing. Another layer
could be coconut cake with
meringue icing,” she said, noting
Magnolia’s cupcake trees hold 24
cupcakes up to more than 100
cupcakes.
“On a wedding cake, people
traditionally use a butter cream
frosting that has some structure
to it or they use fondant because
they’re looking for those three-
dimensional shapes,” she said.
“A meringue icing you could
never put on traditional wedding
cake. Cream cheese icing you
could never put on a traditional
wedding cake.”
As with anything you eat, but
especially a cupcake, it needs
to taste delicious (not just be
sweet) and really special, said
Darcy Miller, editorial director
of Martha Stewart Weddings.
“What’s going to go with your
color palette and the feeling of
your wedding? What’s going
to go with the time of the year
you’re getting married? What’s
going to go with your guests or
your menu?” she said. “Often
today at weddings, people serve
more than cake. They’ll serve
chocolate mousse or sorbet.
So I’m not really sure if you’re
serving chocolate mousse
whether your cupcakes should
be chocolate.”
Also think about how they’ll
be displayed. “There are so
many great things that you can
do,” said Miller. “I love those
cupcake wire stands. We’ve tak-
en the plastic foam rounds that
a cake baker would use to make
the dummy layers of cake, and
we covered them with papers
and doilies and tiered them.”
If you let a pro handle the
wedding cupcakes, you still can
showcase your cupcake baking
talents sometime during your
wedding celebrations, suggested
Miller: “You might make them
for your rehearsal dinner or
engagement party. Or bring
them to your shower as a gift to
thank those who are throwing
the party for you.”
MAGNOLIA BAKERY SUPER RICH CHOCOLATE CAKE Nutrition information: Per cupcake: 146 calories, 31
Prep: 30 minutes percent of calories from fat, 5 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 17
Bake: 25 minutes mg cholesterol, 24 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein, 238 mg
Makes: 24 cupcakes sodium, 1 g fiber
Adapted from a recipe from New York’s
Magnolia Bakery. MAGNOLIA BAKERY VANILLA BUTTER
- 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons sugar CREAM FROSTING
- 1-3/4 cups flour Prep: 15 minutes
- 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened Makes: 3 cups
cocoa powder - 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1-1/2 teaspoons each: baking powder, - 1 teaspoon vanilla
baking soda, salt - 1 pound (4 cups) confectioners’ sugar
- 2 large eggs - 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1. Cream butter with beaters in a large mixing bowl.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla 2. Add vanilla.
- 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons boiling water 3. Gradually add sugar 1 cup at a time, beating
between additions.
1. Heat convection oven to 350 degrees or conventional 4. Scrape down sides of bowl often.
oven to 375 degrees. Whisk together the sugar, flour, 5. When mixture starts to thicken and appears dry, add
cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt In a 2 tablespoons of the milk. Beat on medium speed
large bowl. until smooth and creamy, 2 to 4 minutes.
2. Whisk together eggs, milk, oil and vanilla in a 6. Add more milk as needed if you want a thinner
separate bowl. Whisk the egg mixture with the sugar-flour consistency. If desired, add a few drops of
mixture by hand; beat together until combined. Whisk in food coloring.
the boiling water just until combined. The batter will be thin 7. Store frosting at room temperature. Icing can be
and very watery. stored in an airtight container up to three days.
3. Pour batter into two 12-cup muffin tins with paper Nutrition information: Per 2-tablespoon serving: 143
liners, filling barely half full. Bake until a tester inserted calories, 48 percent of calories from fat, 8 g fat,
into a cupcake comes out clean, 22 to 25 minutes in a 5 g saturated fat, 20 mg cholesterol, 19 g
convection oven or 25 to 30 minutes in a conventional carbohydrates, 0 g protein, 2 mg sodium, 0 g fiber
oven. Cool in pan 10 minutes; remove to a wire rack to
cool completely.
28 Weddings 2011.
Engagement Rings & Wedding Bands

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Weddings. 2011 29
 Professional photographers help you
preserve wedding memories to last a lifetime
By L. L. Charles
Y
our photo album is one of the
most enduring keepsakes you
will treasure from your wedding.
And, unlike your bridal dress or reception
venue, you have to “buy” your wedding
photographs sight unseen. You only get one
chance to document this very special day, so
you want to be sure you are working with
the best professional photographer you can.
Like most creative professionals, good
photographers have developed their own
style and approach to their work. Some
shoot their images on film, while oth-
ers work exclusively with high-end digital
cameras. Some specialize in formal portraits;
others capture your event on-the-go, as it
happens.
“I like to capture the image that is there at
the moment,” says Michele Rogers-Scully, of
Rogers-Scully Photography. “I prefer to use
ambient light, with just a little flash to fill in
the shadows if needed. There is a wonderful
quality to natural light.” A typical wedding
assignment can take 10 hours or more to
complete, she says. “It keeps you on your
toes. You have to be very aware of every-
thing going on at once, all the unfolding of
the events and the celebration.”
“You get one opportunity to capture
these images,” says wedding photographer
Kevin Krayna of Creation Photoscapes. “I
have to make sure I don’t miss any impor-
tant shots,” he says, noting the importance
of connecting and bring out the personali-
ties in his subjects. “You’re engaging with
two people on one of the most important
days of their lives, and it’s an honor to be a
part of that.”
Everyone owns a digital camera these
days, and the temptation might be to just
have a talented friend shoot the ceremony.
“If you need to do this purely for financial
reasons, I can respect that,” says Krayna.
“But if it’s at all possible, you’re much more
likely to be pleased with the work of a pro-
fessional photographer.”
Rogers-Scully and Krayna agree that an
experienced professional brings a special
combination of artistic vision, technical
skills and the ability to motivate without
getting in the way. They are also better
equipped to help you select, print and Where to go:
preserve these special images that you will Creation Photoscapes 303.912.2020
treasure forever. web.mac.com/kevinkrayna/Site/Welcome.html
Rogers-Scully Photography 773.454.4020,
Photos: Provided by Creation Photoscapes rogers-scullyphotography.com
Tips to choosing a
wedding photographer
H
ere are a few tips on selecting a must be a good motivator to bring out the
wedding photographer. best in people – you want someone who
is passionate, positive, and wants to do
Ask your friends the best job they can for you.
If you have a friend who has had a
wedding recently, they may be able to Do the details
recommend a photographer. Ask the photographer how much time
they will spend, before, during and after
Visit photographer web sites your event. Do they charge for travel time
Most photographers have a web site or expenses? How soon will you see the
with an online portfolio. Look for their photos after the wedding? Will they help
personal style and technical skills. Do the you choose the images you want to print?
photos capture the personalities and the Is it easy to order more prints? Will you
excitement of the day, or do they seem get the final negatives, or a disc with all
stiff and posed? Are the images clear, well the digital images?
lighted and composed?
Book early
Get on the phone The best wedding photographers are
Visit several photographer web sites in demand and have busy schedules,
to compare what is being offered, then especially during the summer season. Start
choose the two or three you like best and your search early and choose your pho-
interview them on the phone. How is tographer as soon as you can, to ensure
their personality? A good photographer you will be working with the professional
you really want.
Michele Rogers-Scully, Rogers-Scully Photography Kevin Krayna, Creation Photoscapes,
773.454.4020, www.rogers-scullyphotography.com 303.912.2020, web.mac.com/kevinkrayna/
Site/Welcome.html
30 Weddings 2011.
 8 wedding
By Amy Eisinger, WeddingChannel.com, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services
W ho says you have to stick to
simple white invites? Your
wedding invitations are the
first hint guests get of what your wedding
will be like. With that in mind, Wed-
dingChannel.com has rounded up the hot-
test new designs you’ll love.
Trend 1: Bright and Bold
Bold colors like bright yellows, blues
and even reds are perfect for a summer or
springtime wedding. Your wedding informa-
tion can still be in a simple black (to make
sure it’s easily legible), but the rest of the
invitation can be dominated by one or two
bright color choices. Use those colors in a
standout graphic design that includes stripes
or bold geometric shapes and patterns (an-
other trend) to really give your guests a clue:
They’re in for a fun, lighthearted affair.
Trend 2: Shaped Square
We’re seeing lots of (you got it) square
invitations these days. While most traditional
invitations are more of a vertical rectangle
in shape, these days couples looking to stand
out are making everything square even the
invitation ideas
RSVP cards. It may seem like a small change
going from a rectangle-shape card to a
square one but trust us, the shape will stand
out. And in case you still want a slightly for-
mal, traditional look, this is a nice new twist
card. Use a cursive font and soft ecru paper
to really complete the elegant look.
that will keep everyone happy. Just keep in
mind, this shape usually costs a little extra
postage when you’re mailing it.
Trend 3: Bold Graphics
If you’re going with a retro theme for
your wedding, make sure you’ve got a bold,
graphic print on your invitation. Spiral
shapes, vertical lines and thick circles are
just a few of the graphic designs that are
rising in popularity. The graphics can form a
border on the invitation or you can be extra
bold and incorporate the design into the
main information on your card.
Trend 4: Vintage Design
Bold colors like bright yellows, blues and even
Set the tone for your vintage and intimate
reds are perfect for a summer or springtime
affair with this trend, which places roman-
wedding, especially when paired with a bold
tic, delicate floral prints on the invitations.
graphic design, like this one with stripes from
Often in faded, muted colors, these designs
Cardstore.com. (Provided by Cardstore.com/
can feature feminine garden roses or elegant
Weddingchannel.com/MCT)
vines that snake around the edge of the
Weddings. 2011 31
8 wedding invitation ideas (continued)
Trend 5: Subtle Two-Tones
Who says you have to choose multiple colors to theme your wedding around? If you love
blue, opt for two shades on your invites. The design can be in one color, while the font and
wedding information is in another; or the invitation itself could be a light blue, while the
design and writing are darker blue. Just make sure there’s enough of a contrast in the colors
that everything can still be easily read. Shades of blue, green, gray and black, and purple all
work well for invitations like these.

Trend 6: Bubble Fonts

Having a casual, backyard kind of wedding? Then you’re going to love this trend. Big,
round bubble fonts are a great way to incorporate a retro look, but still maintain a modern
and trendy edge. Since the letters are so thick, use one of your wedding colors to fill in the
font and keep the rest of the invitation appropriately retro with a simple stripe or even a
‘50s-esque graphic, like an old TV or radio.

Trend 7: Hand-Painting
If you really want to go gorgeous (and have a bit more room in your budget), there’s
nothing quite like a hand-painted invitation. Not only will the design be completely unique
and custom, but you’ll get to have major input in the final product. Custom designing has
definitely become more popular over the past few years and we say the extra cost is worth it
_ the look and feel of painted paper will wow your guests and become an instant keepsake.
The opposite of the uber-trendy wedding invites is
this example of the vintage look, from Minted.com,
with muted roses in the background. (Provided by
Cardstore.com/Weddingchannel.com/MCT)

Trend 8: Straight and Narrow
When it comes to shape, you’re not just stuck with squares. We’re also seeing lots of long
and thin invites. Most read as horizontal rectangles, although we have seen a few extreme
vertical invitations as well. The key here is to keep the design relatively simple and let the
avant-garde shape speak for itself. The shape also feels perfect for a wedding that’s themed
around the 1920s or 1930s.
Two tones of the same color is a trend for wedding
invites in 2011, like this one from Wedding Paper
Divas. The invitation itself is a dark blue, while the
design and writing are a lighter blue. (Provided by
Wedding Paper Divas/weddingchannel.com/MCT)

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32 Weddings 2011.
 Top invite
questions
By Amy Eisinger, WeddingChannel.com
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services
C an we tell guests our ceremony is
starting 30 minutes earlier than it re-
ally is? And if we’re all paying, then
who’s “hosting” the wedding anyway?
Here, WeddingChannel.com answers your
top wedding invitation questions.
Q: When should I send my invitations?
Ideally, you should send your invitations
eight weeks before the wedding, so your
guests have time to make travel arrange-
ments. This applies even if you sent a
save-the-date earlier to give them a heads
up. Sending your invites this early means
you’ll have timely RSVPs (about three weeks
before the wedding), which still gives you
time to call any non-responders and make
your seating chart without stressing. At a
minimum, send your invitations six weeks
in advance and receive all of your responses
two weeks before the big day.
Q: We’re all chipping in for the wedding.
Since there’s no single host, whose name
goes first on the invite?
If multiple people are paying for the
wedding, there isn’t a hard-and-fast rule
about whose name goes first. Traditionally,
the bride’s parents’ names followed by the
bride’s name are first on the invitation, but
if everyone is hosting, you could write your
names and “together with their parents”
with both sets of names listed at the top.
Likewise, if you and the groom are splitting
the cost yourselves, there’s no need to write
your parents’ names first (or even include
them at all). Talk to your parents and see
what they like best, remembering that even
if the groom’s parents are chipping in, they
may still want to stick to traditional wording
on the invitation.
Q: Should I include a dress code on the
invites?
We’d recommend not telling your guests
how to dress unless absolutely necessary.
Still, we understand the fear that your one
crazy uncle might show up in khakis and
his favorite Hawaiian shirt to your black-tie
affair. When you must make a note of dress
code, etiquette dictates a few rules. Include
the dress code on the reception invitation
in the lower right-hand corner (it should
not go on an invite with ceremony infor-
mation). And be simple about it. Just write
“black-tie” or “black-tie invited” so there’s
no confusion.
Five great gifts to repay your
bridesmaids for all their work
By Emilie Le Beau, McClatchy-Tribune (MCT), McClatchy-Tribune Information Services
B eing a bridesmaid is meant to be an
honor but it’s often a big demand.
Many brides expect their wedding
party to sacrifice time and money. Brides-
maids typically pay for their dress and shoes,
as well as shower, bachelorette, and wedding
presents. They’re also expected to attend
parties, shopping expeditions and DIY work
sessions.
Demanding brides can repay their wed-
ding party with beautiful bridesmaid gifts.
Here are five ideas fitting for different
demands:
Financial demands:
Brides who pick expensive bridesmaids
dresses and shoes place a financial demand
on bridesmaids that may turn into a credit
card debt. Brides can acknowledge this sacri-
fice with a leather wallet.
The Rachel Wallet from Hobo Interna-
tional is a tri-fold wallet made with cowhide.
It has a vintage look and closes with a
double magnetic snap. There is an exte-
rior coin pocket and the interior has eight
credit card slots, ID window and three bill
pockets. About eight inches long and four
inches wide, available in six colors, $128 at
Hobobags.com.
Work demands:
The big day is a work day for some
bridesmaids. They decorate the venue, haul
flowers from the church to the reception
hall, and tame embarrassing guests. Brides-
maids on their feet can benefit from a foot
spa.
The Conair Massaging Jet Foot Spa is a
heated foot bath with two whirlpool jet set-
tings. The spa has removable foot massage
rollers and a bubbles setting. The bottom
has a nonslip surface and the built-in side
Weddings. 2011 33
handles are gripped to prevent slippage.
$34.99 at Conair.com.
Beauty demands:
Image is everything to some brides. Their
bridesmaids endure pre-wedding color,
waxing, facials, manicures and pedicures.
Bridesmaids subjected to beauty demands
need a beautiful gift.
Window Box Kit from Macadamia Natu-
ral Oil is a set of hair care and treatment
products. The set includes the Heating Oil
Treatment which can be applied to dry or
wet hair before styling; rejuvenating sham-
poo, and deep repair masque. Also included
is an oil infused comb which is meant to
gentle detangle. $49.95 at MacadamiaHair.
com.
Emotional demands:
Some brides demand damage control.
Their bridesmaids deal with in-law, mother-
of-the-bride and ex-girlfriend drama. These
bridesmaids listen patiently, pass tissues, and
frequently tell the bride she’s right.
Heart jewelry represents the love and sup-
port given by bridesmaids. The Heart Truth
Pendant from Swarovski is a half-inch by
half-inch red crystal pendant. The pendant
has Siam crystal set into a rhodium plate.
Fifteen inch chain, $80 at Swavorski.com or
Swavorski stores.
Time givers:
Being a bridesmaid can be a significant
time commitment. Brides expect their
bridesmaids to attend multiple showers -
some out of state - and the bachelorette
party. Then, the weekend of the wedding is
completely devoted to the festivities.
Bridesmaids who give serious time should
get time back with a beautiful watch. The
Silver Mesh &
Crystals watch
from Skagen has
tiny crystals in the
number positions.
The face plate is
colored glass avail-
able in pink or blue
and the mesh band
is made of steel.
The watch is analog
and has a safety
clasp and three year
battery life. $105 at
Skagen.com.
 Five people you need to thank
at your wedding
By Emilie LeBeau, McClatchy-Tribune (MCT)
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services

W
eddings aren’t only about saying ‘I do.’ Saying ‘thank
you’ to supportive family and friends is also impor-
tant. Couples need to send thank you notes for each
gift received and they also must acknowledge individuals who give
time and money to help make the big day special.
Here are five participants who deserve a bit of thanks and how
to make it special:

Give thanks to families:

For some couples, wedding expecta-
tions and budgets are high. Many family
members contribute cash to help make
the wedding a success. Contributors
deserve a special card, separate from
the standard thank you note all guests
receive.
“Thank you for an Amazing &
Beautiful Wedding” by Jenny Sweeney Designs is a handmade card
designed to thank those who helped with the big day. The card is
4.25 x 5.25 and comes in a sparkly envelope. Made in Illinois. $4.50
at JennySweenyDesigns.com
Give thanks to gift givers.
There’s a new trend in which
brides and grooms send photo
cards of themselves in place of
traditional thank you notes. This
means the card is not customized
and the gift is not individually
acknowledged. Couples interested
in properly giving thanks should
select blank cards with ample room to write a personal message.
The Traditional Green Intaglio Thank-You Notes from Crane’s
Stationary are made with 100 percent cotton and have 3 x 5 inches
of writing room. The front has “thank you” written in concave font
in a classic green color. $15 for 10 cards and 10 envelopes
at Crane.com
Give thanks to the bridal party:
Bridesmaids often spend big money and time on helping make the
bride’s big day a success. Brides can give back after the wedding by
creating a personalize album that is professionally printed.
WeddingPaperDivas.com has an online photo album generator
in which brides can make custom photo albums. Brides can upload
photos from a computer or Web sites such as Flickr and then choose
colors, designs, and font. Spine choices include leather, silk and silk
spine. Pricing starts at $29.95 for 20 pages in the 8 x 8 size, each ad-
ditional page is 49 cents. WeddingPaperDivas.com
Acknowledge each other:
Couples compromise during
wedding planning. She tolerates the
inclusion of his annoying friend
as best man while he agrees to
invitation bows that cost $8 each.
Newlyweds can show appreciation
after the wedding with personal-
ized gifts.
The Glossy Easel Art from Tiny Prints is a customizable
keepsake that couples can design online. Simply upload a photo,
select easel size, and designate any special instructions. A customer
service representative will e-mail proofs for final confirmation. Pric-
ing starts at $15.99 for a 5 x 7 easel at TinyPrints.com

Give thanks to attendees:

Most weddings feature boring favors. A handful
of hard Jordan almonds wrapped tightly in tulle
is easy to ignore. Couples can create personalized
favors by gathering photos of the bride or groom
posed with each guest. Position in a cute place-
holder the guest can display at home. Photos can
The Wine Cork Place Card Holders resemble real corks but are made with be recent or decades old. Tip: If the guest is an old
resin and have a two inch slot at the top. $12 for a set of eight at friend of a parent, find a photo of the two from
UncommonGoods.com. 34 Weddings 2011. back in the day.
 Creation Photoscapes by Kevin Krayna
W W W. C R E AT I O N P H O T O S C A P E S . C O M • 3 0 3 . 9 1 2 . 2 0 2 0

What I capture today through my lens I may never see again.

Perhaps it is a photo of your child. They may never again look the way they look today. That smile?
That frown? That smirk? Capture it today and you will always have it. Your wedding day? Especially your wedding day.
You entrust me with this special of all days and I will immerse myself into this opportunity.
We welcome wedding parties
at Louisville’s Historical Spa & Salon!

Hair, Skin & Nail Care

Microderm & Peels
Waxing & Tinting
Body Treatments
Custom Makeup
Massage
Spa Retreats

www.lotusdayspalouisvilleco.com
844 Main St Historic Downtown Louisville
303.817.7974