A Guide To Beautiful

A Guide To Beautiful THE January 2009 DELPHOS HERALD 2 - 2008 Winter Wedding Planner Flowers On Fifth 940 E. Fifth St. Delphos, OH 45833 Couples saying ‘I Do’ to destination weddings (419) 692-6856 flowersonfifth@woh.rr.com Do I deserve a stress free wedding day? “I DO” Do I deserve elegant floral designs? “I DO” Do I expect exceptional customer service? Many couples choose to tie the knot away from home. This enables them to marry the ceremony and a vacation in one convenient package. “I DO” Do I need to call Flowers on Fifth TODAY and schedule a FREE wedding consultation? “I DO” (419) 692-6856 Are you thinking of heading out of town for your wedding? If so, you’re not alone. Conde Nast Bridal Group’s American Wedding Study (2006) reported that 16 percent of couples are now choosing to have a destination wedding. While you may think they’re for the rich and famous, destination weddings can actually be less expensive than traditional celebrations closer to home. This may be advantageous to brides and grooms who are feeling the effects of today’s economic crunch. That’s because destination weddings generally have smaller guest lists, and many of the “extras” that are tacked on to a traditional wedding are covered in the all-inclusive price of a destination event. So you can cut down on the cost of the $20,000 to $30,000 average-priced wedding, particularly if guests are paying for their own tickets. Destination weddings are for individuals who want to put the focus on fun. They enable you to pump up the enjoyment factor and marry a vacation and a wedding into one handy package. They also start the honeymoon at the point of arrival at your destination. One-of-a-kind memories are created with a destination wedding, particularly when exotic locales are the backdrop for your celebration. Because travel is involved, destination weddings are often facilitated with the help of a travel agent or wedding planner. This person can help you work out all of the details of the wedding, primarily when you’re working with vendors that may be out of state or out See COUPLES, page 28 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 3 Stress-free bridal shower planning ARA — When your best friend or sister announces she's engaged and wants you to be her maid of honor, of course you jump up and down with excitement – for her. But inside, you’re starting to cringe. Dresses, presents and planning at least one bridal shower – you can feel the pressure building up. If the thought of the bridal shower creates more stress than satisfaction, there’s help. Culinary expert and newlywed, Kendall McFarland, research and development manager at Simply Organic, suggests cutting down on hassles with these five timesaving tips for simple but sensational shower refreshments. • Take smart shortcuts For enticing flavor without fuss, keep a supply of natural dressing and dip mixes on hand for fresh, homemade appetizers and snacks. Add a dip or dressing mix, such as creamy dill, French onion, guacamole, or ranch to equal parts of low-fat cottage cheese and non-fat plain yogurt and mix in a blender or food processor until smooth. Serve with fresh veggies you can buy already cleaned and cut up at the store. • Dress up everyday favorites Special dishes don’t require hours in the kitchen. Make your easy-to-prepare favorites and dress them up with special, wedding seasonings. Try distinctive seasoning blends like red pepper and curry, apple and basil, pineapple and cilantro, or orange and ginger for a gourmet touch. For example, simply add a liberal dose of a spice (like oregano, basil, or cayenne) or seasoning blend along with some garlic and Parmesan cheese to your usual mashed potatoes, and you’ll instantly serve something outside everyday fare. • Plan and shop wisely Forget about shopping 'til you drop. Develop your menu, including impromptu snacks, ahead of time. Then pick up everything non-perishable at the same time, eliminating those last-minute treks to the grocery store. To save even more time, order ingredients online. For example, Simply Organic carries culinary items like organic spices, seasoning blends, baking extracts and flavors, gluten-free baking mixes and other cooking ingredients and supplies which they will ship to you within a few days of your order. • Accept help When the bride’s mother or other guests ask if they can bring anything, say yes! Ask them to bring something you don't especially enjoy preparing or something you know is that person’s specialty which the bride really loves. Or have each guest bring a dessert or appetizer, so you can focus solely on the rest of the party and fun. Offers to help are gifts, so allow other bridesmaids or friends to assist if they offer. Working together can add to the shower fun, and give you stories to share as you continue down the wedding planning road. • Make it healthy The bride, her bridesmaids and the mother of the bride all want to fit into their dresses when the big day finally arrives. The best meal you can offer your guests is a delicious and healthful one. Provide great-tasting, nutritious snacks that go easy on salt, fat, sugar, and other potentially unhealthy ingredients and guests will fondly remember your hospitality. Here are two great examples of healthy bridal shower dishes that are easy to prepare: Fruit Chutney 1 cup peeled and diced mixed fruit 1 package Apple Basil Dressing Mix 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar In a medium bowl, mash fruit or use a food processor and blend. Add Apple Basil Dressing Mix and vinegar and mix. Chill and serve as a relish. Serves 8. Italian Egg Bake 8 eggs 1/2 cup milk 1 package Italian Dressing Mix 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup diced vegetables (tomatoes and mushrooms are good choices) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Add milk and Italian Dressing Mix and whisk well. Add cheese and vegetables. Pour into greased 9-inch pie pan. Bake 40 to 50 minutes, or until center is firm. Top with diced tomatoes and shredded Parmesan cheese for an extra special flavor. Serves 6. CG Eagles Luxury Limousines, Buses and Sedans 419-228-LIMO (5466) 1-800-280-5811 www.ohiolimo.com Catering • Seats 150 Dance floor/space • Bartenders - full bar 635 W. Sycamore, Columbus Grove, OH 45830 419-659-5565 ueaglesColum@woh.rr.com 4 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner A new approach to the family-oriented wedding ARA — Moving their relationship from dating to marriage was a big step for Lynn Lehman and Cliff Simonelli. One primary concern was how their respective children — Lynn’s two young sons, ages 5 and 8, plus Cliff’s three youngsters, ages 9 to 15 — would come together as a family. “Cliff and I were both divorced,” explains Lynn, a 38-year-old marketing manager. “Divorce turns kids’ lives upside down. My boys didn’t verbalize anything, but I knew they were worried. That’s one reason why Cliff and I decided to do something during our wedding to communicate to all the children that we were creating a family that would be there for them. We wanted them to know that they could trust that our marriage and our new family would not ny — known as the Family Medallion service — can easily be integrated into any religious or civil wedding ceremony. It differs from the traditional wedding in only one respect, after the newlyweds exchange rings, their children join them for a special service focusing on the family nature of a marriage. Each child is given a Family Medallion pendant (or ring) with three interlocking circles, a symbol that represents family love (for ceremony information, see FamilyMedallion.com). The Wheaton, Ill. couple liked the message of the family ceremony, which included a pledge to love and care for all the children either spouse brings to the marriage. “We were making a commitment to the children, and we wanted them to make a commitment to work through the challenges that our new family would inevitably face,” Lynn adds. The Simonellis say they will never forget the special family service that was the highlight of their September 2008 wedding. The justice of the peace called each child forward and, while he read the words of the ceremony, Lynn and Cliff placed the medallions around the necks of their children. There was a lot of hugging and tears. “I could tell by the way the kids reacted that on some level, they understood,” Lynn says. For example, Lynn’s youngest son, 5-yearold Christopher, clutched his medallion and beamed at his stepdad Cliff. “This is cool, dude,” he said. “I love you.” Cliff, a 41-year-old salesman, had been concerned See FAMILY, page 29 fall apart.” But finding the perfect “family” wedding ceremony was not as easy as Lynn had anticipated. She spent hours surfing the Web only to find a lot of so-called blended family products with more sizzle than substance. Eventually Lynn found exactly what she had in mind: a simple and emotionally satisfying family service that gives children a meaningful role in the wedding celebration. This five-minute ceremo- LAUDICK’S JEWELRY orche’s F Custom Sewing, Sue Kaseman, Seamstress Marriage iis a beautiful • Gents Bands • Money Clips thing. • Tie Tacs • Pocket Watches Alterations • Weddings • Proms Custom Dresses • Fine Fabrics and Trims Bridal Headpieces and Veils Bridal Party Gifts Large selection of Boys’ Dress Suits, Tuxedos First Communion & Flower Girl Dresses 2390 Baty Rd. • 419-909-9061 0 y . 2 435849 9 Gifts for the Bride: “Diamond Earrings” “Journey Pendants” Van Wert 1244 S. Shannon St. 419-238-2266 or 1-800-238-2206 Coldwater 215 W. Main St. 419-678-2929 or 1-800-564-6680 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 5 Maid of honor? Be prepared ARA — The role of the maid of honor can turn into a dress rehearsal for the day when it is your turn to be the bride. The bride’s maid of honor typically has a very close personal relationship with the bride and often serves as confidant and advisor on a variety of issues. Preparations can include selecting wedding colors; choosing the bridesmaid dresses, the caterer and flowers; identifying a location for the wedding and the reception; and hosting a bridal shower. This position of honor can be loaded with a lot of work and responsibility as well as a lot of fun. Typical maid-ofhonor duties often include shopping with the bride, arranging transportation for the bridal party, communicating plans and responsibilities to the bridal party, selecting and sending out wedding invitations, ensuring the bridal party gets to rehearsals on time, helping during the rehearsal dinner and other events and making sure the reception runs smoothly. “Deciding to marry is a big step and preparing for a wedding is an extremely stressful process,” says Dr. Douglas Whiteside, director of the Argosy University Seattle Psychology Center. “The bride needs reliable and trusted people around her to help make decisions and transact business. Therefore, the role of the maid of honor is critical in helping the bride cope with the demands of planning a wedding and preparing for a new life.” She also has official duties such as signing the marriage license along with the best man and participating in the first dance with the best man, holding the groom's ring during the ceremony, holding the bride's bouquet during the ceremony and toasting the newlyweds during the reception. Then there are the tender tasks of helping to prepare the bride just before her grand march down the aisle by fixing her hair, adjusting the veil and wiping tears to avoid smudging makeup, along with the tedious task of helping to keep track of the wedding gifts and money cards. Lest we forget, the toughest task for the maid of honor is the unofficial duty of keeping the bride calm, being a sounding board for the bride and offering thoughtful opinions when major decisions are being made. There is also the responsibility of keeping the bride calm the day of the wedding when nerves and anxiety will be at their peak. Screaming at the caterer, banquet hall attendant or church clerk over a forgotten detail can raise the stress level of the bride and those around her prior to the wedding. This can take the mood of this festive occasion in a wrong direction. Assisting the bride through this delicate and stressful process also means looking out for her emotional well-being. The maid of honor often tells jokes to make the bride laugh and help reduce her stress level, and makes sure the bride eats healthy meals to keep her nourished and balanced. On top of all that, the best maid of honor must be a good listener in order to provide the necessary emotional support the bride needs leading up to and the day of the wedding, as she prepares for the start of her new life. 24 Hour Drop-Box Thanks for Voting Us the Dry Cleaner in Limaland! #1 Ideal place for your Wedding Reception ... • Newly Remodeled Thanks for&Voting Us the BUCKS!• Spacious and Beautifully Decorated • Rugs, Drapes Curtains • Alterations by Dee & Seeta • Catering & Bar Service Included for your convenience • Great Location - Easy to get to Dry N. Cable Road,in Limaland! Street, Delphos 702 Cleaner Lima 903 E. Fifth • Wedding Gown Restoration / Preservation • Replacement Corn Hole Bags • Dry Cleaning GO #1 Specializing in: Wedding Gown Restoration/Preservation DELPHOS LIMA 702 N. Cable Road Open to everyone - you do not need to be a K of C member to rent. For rental information call 419•695•8964 419•229•7406 903 E. 5th Street 419-692-0701 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 1011 Elida Ave. Delphos, OH 6 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner Sing a sweet tune with wedding music Music is an integral part of both the wedding ceremony and the reception. Music often conveys emotions that are difficult to put into words. Additionally, songs and music help us to remember certain key moments more easily. That’s why we often associate rites of passage with the sound track of that time in our lives. Because music is such an important part of the wedding, you want to take the time and necessary precautions to avoid wedding day music slip-ups. As with most parts of the wedding process, preparation and planning — as well as some reputable word-ofmouth recommendations — can make selecting musicians and song choices for your wedding much smoother. Consider the following: The ceremony Can you picture the bride and her attendants walking down the aisle without any music? Many couples give careful consideration to the reception music and leave the ceremony music to chance — not a good idea. Ask your house of worship if they have any rules regarding song selections, as well as regulations on house or outside musicians. Then work your music selections according to these guidelines. While traditionally brides enter to “Here Comes the Bride,” stricter houses of worship may not allow this tune, or brides simply may prefer something else. Classical, hymnal or other processional music is often appropriate. Just keep in mind the tempo and length of the song so that it will match the gait and size of the wedding party. Chances are the ceremony musicians will be different from those who are playing at your reception. Therefore this may require a little extra planning. If your house of worship provides the musician(s), arrange to sit down with this individual to talk about styles and what to expect. Also arrange to have payment or a tip provided for his or her services. The reception You will likely have more wiggle room with your choices at the reception, depending upon the venue. Brides and grooms usually use live performers or DJs who play prerecorded music. Some performers offer a combination of both. Consider the style of your wedding. Will it be formal or informal? Traditional or contemporary? Aim for music that suits the style or theme of the wedding. A full-piece orchestra may seem out of place at a casual party. When you are choosing music, consider your tastes, but the tastes of your guests as well. While you won't be able to please each and every person, the wider the range of music you have available, the greater the chance of people getting up to dance and enjoying themselves. See SWEET TUNE, page 7 For the Best Sleep...Think Mattress Mart. 6 Months Same As Cash! • 12 Months FREE Financing! 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Contact prospective performers early on to ensure your wedding date is available. 419-741-7063 Contracts Once you decide on your ceremony and reception musicians, it’s important to sign a contract and work out payment agreements. Having the information in writing protects you in case the musicians don’t deliver what was expected. Here are some points that should be covered in the contracts. • Price, deposit amount, additional charges (travel, food requirements, etc.), and overtime rates. • The number of musicians who will be attending and what instruments they play, in the case of a wedding band. • Names of specific people you want, such as DJ, lead vocalist, emcee, and what compensation will be made if these people are not Perfection Bakery & Deli Visit us at our new location ... 112 E. Fifth St. • Delphos “You design we create” ~ Custom design cakes ~ Cakes never frozen ~ Free Anniversary cake with every wedding cake ~ With prices as good as the cake itself! (www.brandyjadamsphotography.com) It’s YOUR big day! You deserve the BEST! There’s no need to worry over the food, decorations, or the setting for your wedding! Nestled on acres of beautiful golf greens, our banquet rooms with full windows, wrap-around veranda, and elegant decor adds a backdrop of romance and beauty! Willow Bend also provides off-sight catering! Everything from Hors d’oeuvres to Buffets; Formal Sit-Down Dinners to Light Wedding Showers can be prepared, setup and served to suit your needs! So don’t settle for less than perfect! Call Willow Bend Country Club today to schedule an appointment: 419-238-0111 or 419-238-2417 579 Hospital Drive • Van Wert, OH 45891 8 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner Wedding cakes evolve, too By Stacy Taff DELPHOS — When it comes to weddings, trends are constantly changing. Everything from decorations to wedding gowns have evolved from elaborate and fluffy to simple and elegant. According to Alex Benavidez, owner of Baked To Perfection in Delphos, the evolution of the traditional wedding cake is no different. “Cakes used to be made using these big plastic tiers, and they all looked the same. The toppers were the little bride and groom figurines and then a little later you’d see bells and hearts added,” said Benavidez. “But now, everything is simplified. The most popular style is a stacked cake, with the layers stacked directly on top of each other, and if there are any toppers, its usually a simple monogram or some flowers. About 80 percent of brides that come to me request a cake that’s ‘simple and elegant.’ Only about two percent are made with the plastic tiers.” Since the styles of cakes have changed over the years, it seems only natural that the ingredients would change as well. “Wedding cakes used to be made with the requisite buttercream frosting and the white or chocolate cake. Now the most commonly used icing is a smooth fondant. For the cake itself, you can have anything from coffee flavored to raspberry, with cream, fruit, whip or chocolate filling. Basically you can have anything you want. It’s all gotten very exotic,” he said. One thing that Benavidez will not compromise on while creating cakes is taste. “People come to me with a lot of different ideas for cakes and I’m very open to trying new things. There was this one bride from Mexico that requested a cake that was called ‘tres leches,’ which See CAKES, page 26 1979 2007 2004 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 9 1980 1974 1995 1960s 10 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner www.delphosherald.com Lovely Dresses & Suits for the Mother of the Bride & Groom at Personal service to help you find that perfect dress for your special occasion. (Sizes 4 - 30) “Available Week” Mon & Weds 9:30-8:00, Tues, Thurs, Fri 9:30-5:00, Sat 9:30 -3:00 Complete Wedding Coordinator from Start to Finish... • On-Site Catering For Any Occasion • Church & Hall Decorating • Silk & Fresh Florals and Bouquets • Centerpieces & Linens • Beautiful Custom Wedding Cakes jxww|Çz WÜxtÅá uç _|Çwt YxtàâÜ|Çz ZÜtÇàËá VtàxÜ|Çz 877-358-5099 www.weddingdreamsbylinda.com lgrantWD@verizon.net 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 11 Treat guests to an ‘inviting’ message There are infinite opportunities for uniqueness with wedding invitations, which is why selecting the right invitation is often one of the most confusing aspects of planning a wedding. Invitations are usually your first line of communication regarding the upcoming celebration, and they typically set the tone of the affair and what guests should expect. Wedding etiquette experts also say that gift-giving is subject to influence by the type of invitation received. Guests also tend to determine what they will wear to the wedding depending upon the invitation. All of these perceptions about the wedding are made even before guests read the first line of sentiment on the invitation itself. With so much inferred meaning placed on invitations, it's no wonder you may be nervous about choosing and sending out invitastyle invitation that will reflect the formalness of the affair. If your wedding will be casual, choose a design and font that expresses that feeling. Here are some other tips to consider: • Wait until you have definite times and locations for the ceremony and reception before submitting any wording to the invitation company. • Type out the wording you prefer with a word-processing program on your computer. Run a spell-check and print it out and read it over several times. This will cut down on the chances for error once the wording is sent for printing. • To know how many invitations to order, take the forecasted number of guests and divide that number by two. Then add 25 to 30 additional invitations for any single guests you may be inviting as well as to have extras on hand in case you make a mistake addressing the invitation. So if you are inviting 150 people (assuming most will come as couples), order 100 invitations. • Many people opt to print out addresses on the invitation envelope themselves. While home printers and software packages have certainly advanced, it may be difficult to match the font and style of your invitation. Furthermore, while hand-addressing invitations is more time-consuming, it adds a personalized touch and shows you care about those invited. • Make sure you bring an invitation to the post office to be weighed so you can determine how much postage you will need. Mail them 4 to 6 weeks before the wedding to allow for response time. It's customary to enclose a response card with postage already applied so guests can simply drop their RSVP in the mail. tions. Here are some pointers so you’;ll make the right decisions. There are many personalization options at your disposal with wedding invitations. You’ll be able to choose the texture, color and shape of the paper, as well as the font and ink color in many cases. These selections can be combined with other embellishments, such as envelope linings, extra layers of paper, vellum accents, ribbons, and calligraphy styles. You may also be able to select a monogram or artwork to further embellish the invitation. If your wedding will be a formal affair, choose a classic GREAT DESTINATIONS SPECTACULAR ADVENTURES 151 W. Third St., Delphos, Ohio (419) 695-7239 888-533-7447 FOP Hall Holds up to 350 guests 2 Separate Baths Full Kitchen Weddings, Business Meetings, Banquets Call to reserve (419) 222-9806 750 W. Robb Ave. Lima Fisher Photography 419-222-0077 www.Fisherphotographyonline.com 12 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner Packing right for your honeymoon ARA — You made it through the wedding, so now comes the relaxing part — your romantic honeymoon in a faraway destination. But what do you pack and how much do you need? Gone are the days of multiple suitcases stacked at the doorway to accompany you on your flight. With airlines charging fees for checked luggage, today’s friendly skies will only allow you just so much, so you’d better make the most of your checked bag and your carry-on. There are three basic honeymoon destination types: the beach, the mountains and the city. Each one requires careful pre-planning on your part to make sure you have enough, but not so much that you wind up forking over extra cash at your airline’s check-in counter. If the beach is your destination — a great choice for all the northerners who spend most of the winter digging their driveways out from under mounds of snow — there’s a chance that you may have to carry on all your items if you or your spouse want to bring along the golf clubs. But have no fear, it can be done. “Chances are you’re just going to be at the pool most of the day, so two swimsuits, a wrap or two and flip-flops will take care of most of your daytime needs,” says Anne Hankey, a fashion marketing & management instructor at The Illinois warm and they can keep you from sweating in warm weather because they are designed to regulate your body temperature when you work out.” If you decide to head to a winter ski resort on your honeymoon, you can still keep your bulkier winter wear to a minimum. Hankey suggests you pack your ski boots with your skis in your checked luggage. “Wear your ski parka on the plane with a nice pair of jeans, a sweater and casual boots. Bring two pairs of leggings and a few thermal Tshirts to layer under your parka when you hit the slopes and don’t forget your socks, gloves and ski goggles. “Pack a few sparkly tops or tank tops that you can pair with the jeans you wore on the plane and don’t forget your swimsuit for the hot tub,” says See PACKING, page 29 Institute of Art – Chicago. Hankey also suggests neutral T-shirts, sexy dresses that can be dressed up or down, shorts, a couple of skirts and a pair of casual and dressy sandals. Don’t forget your sunglasses, a small, unique “statement bag” and a big bag you can use as a carry-on, on the plane and as your beach bag once you get to your destination. If you have room, Hankey also suggests a big collapsible hat, but you can always buy one when you land. And what do you wear on the plane when you’re taking off in sub-zero weather and landing in a heat wave? “My favorite trick is to wear black exercise clothes,” says Stephanie Schuller, fashion marketing and management instructor at The Illinois Institute of Art — Chicago. “They’ll insulate you so in cold weather they’ll keep you FORT JENNINGS AMERICAN LEGION STATE ROUTE 189 WEST, FORT JENNINGS, OHIO Our Tuxedos come in All Sizes and Styles Come See Us to Find the One that Best Suits You! Hrs: M-F 9:00-5:30 Sat. 9:00-1:00 Evening hours by appointment only Hall Available for Weddings, Anniversaries, Reunions & Etc. *BUILDING EQUIPPED FOR HANDICAPPED *LINENS AND ROUND TABLES AVAILABLE TO RENT FOR RENTAL INFO CALL: 419-286-2192 POST #: 419-286-2100 MENGERINK’S Tuxedo Source 148 E. Main St., Van Wert 419-238-6065 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 13 Wedding toast tips A wedding day toast is a tradition that has long been a part of wedding celebrations. Toasts are a personal way of commemorating the good fortune of the newly betrothed and looking forward to future happiness. The best man traditionally gives the main toast at the wedding. At different occasions on the road to the wedding there may be other opportunities for toasts from the maid of honor or even the parents of the bride and groom. While some people are natural orators and have no trouble speaking in front of large crowds of people, the majority of toasters approach the toast with a bit of trepidation. Apart from the anxiety of speaking in front of a group of friends and relatives, it can be nervewracking to come up with sentiments for the toast, which can mean the difference groom and try to personalize the speech as much as possible. Practice the toast in front of others and get some unbiased opinions before the wedding. • Time it right: If the thought of spending the entire reception waiting to give the toast has you on edge, ask the prospective couple if you can give the toast early on in the night. This way you can relax afterward and enjoy the party. • Jot down notes: If you think your nerves will get the best of you, bring some index cards with key phrases of the toast. You could write out the entire speech, but if you simply read it, the toast could seem stiff and impersonal. • Hold off on cocktails: While it’s generally fine to have one or two drinks prior to the toast to loosen up, it’s not recommended to be intoxicated. Alcohol and public speaking often do not mix. You don’t want to say something you will regret later on or make a mockery of the wedding. • Keep it short: Aim for a two- or three-minute speech. Something long-winded won’t hold the attention of wedding guests who are looking to get on with the fun of the wedding reception. • Speak slowly and clearly: Articulate and speak loud enough so everyone can hear the speech. You will likely be handed a microphone. If you get nervous and trip up, simply make a quick joke and get back to it. Others will understand if you are tense. • Don’t be afraid of getting emotional: “Wedding guests would rather see real feelings than a beauty-pageant speech,” says Sharon Naylor, author of “Your Special Wedding Toasts.” So if you get choked-up, don’t worry. between a memorable or an embarrassing wedding day experience. While there are no toasting guarantees, following a few tips can help nervous toasters do a bang-up job. • Be prepared: Individuals who try to “wing it” the day of the wedding may find their nerves get the best of them. It's best to write out your thoughts in advance of the wedding and fine tune your sentiments many times. 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We also have wedding party gifts Fortman’s Linen Service For That special look Linens for every occasion Tablecloths, Napkins, Skirting Variety of Colors Elegant Cakes Fondant & Traditional Wedding Cakes Cakes For All Occasions •Birthdays •Anniversary •Holidays •Graduation 419-238-3520 Design your own wedding cake – Buttercream & Fondant Icings by Carolyn Pruden 419-587-3738 4611 Road 177 Grover Hill, OH www.elegantcakes.net e-mail: elegantcakes@mchsi.com 14 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner Free Continental Breakfast Indoor Pool Whirlpool Full Cable TV & HBO Free High Speed Wireless Internet Access Free Local Calls Something old, something new, something borrowed, something ... green? If you have a hybrid car parked in your garage, recycle rain water to irrigate backyard plants and have replaced just about every bulb in your home with compact fluorescents, there's a good chance that you’re environmentally conscious. But what if you've just gotten engaged and want to impart some of these green ways of thinking to the wedding? What can you do to be earthfriendly when tying the knot? Wedding industry insiders say that the trend of going green with weddings is growing exponentially. David Cooperrider, a business professor at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, says that going green is one of the great business opportunities of the 21st century, and there is much potential for the wedding industry. He offers that wedding vendors that are not going green will be at a competitive disadvantage to those who do. Going green for your wedding day doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the elements that will make the day special. It just means you can take a look at the details and the bigger picture and develop strategies that will minimize the impact on the planet. 2179 Elida Rd. Lima, Ohio Call Today 419-224-8496 www.marriott.com\daylm hÇ|Öâx fÉÄâà|ÉÇá 9 XäxÇàá Event Planner/Coordinators USE W|tÇx j|ààÄxÜ - 419.236.1507 ^|Å `vVÜtv~xÇ @ 419.235.7832 21851 R. 21, Ft. Jennings, OH 45844 use.the.best@hotmail.com DRY CLEANED TO PERFECTION We will handle your garment with the utmost care! We dry clean wedding gowns Also available boxing for preservation Bring any items that you would want stored with the gown, such as veil, pictures, invitations, etc. when you bring in your gown to be preserved Dave’s Quality Cleaners 142 E. Main St. Van Wert, OH 419-238-5537 Tables • Chairs • Tents s ry ing day day rsa oli edd ive rth n H W Bi An on 1stuni m m Co MTC Banquet Equipment Tents Round Tables White Chairs 19461 Road R Ft. Jennings, OH SERVING THE AREA SINCE 1985 Ph. 419-286-2873 • Go local: From food to flowers, choose vendors that use locally grown and raised products. This reduces the amount of smog generated and fuel consumed to bring items in for your wedding. Many caterers are now collaborating with local farms and other vendors to offer organic, locally grown menu items. It pays to ask about availability. • Go to your guests: Figure out where the greatest number of your guests reside and then hold the wedding nearby. For example, a couple from the Northeast who has relocated to the West coast, but has all of their family still in the east, may want to hold their wedding in the east. It is less expensive and more environmentally friendly for the couple to simply fly to the wedding, rather than having hundreds of guests drive or fly west. • Be mindful of wardrobe choices: Choose items that really can be worn again. Skip the rented tuxes and ask groomsmen to wear a similar styled suit that they can add to their work See OLD, page 28 Color 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 15 Wedding memories Eric & Sandi Bohn May 5, 1979 Angie’s Cakes •Wedding •Birthday •All Occasions Owner: Angela Hogan 209 Sunnydale Street Elida, Ohio 45807 419-234-7565 By Appt. ahogan8@woh.rr.com Irene (Blockberger) seated and Oswald Klaus Date married: January 8, 1920 (57 years) Attendants: Edna Freund and Leonard Klaus www.angiescakeslima.com 16 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner James and Janice Kleman Date married: June 24, 1950 (59 years) Weddings! •LARGE OR SMALL CATERINGS • BANQUET FACILITY AVAILABLE •SEATING UP TO 90 OWNERS: TODD LAUDICK KARL MILLER We “DO” William and Marilyn McCracken Date married: January 20, 1939 (70 years) • REHEARSALS, RECEPTIONS, OR ANNIVERSARY PARTIES 206 S. Broad St., Kalida, OH 45853 Phone: 419-532-3029 Larry and Joyce Lindeman Date married: January 22, 1977 (32 years) 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 17 Kathy (Dickman) and Bill Eversole Married: 9 months Don Johnson Florist & Bridal Salon 1707 N. West St., Lima, OH 419-227-5110 Visit our website: w w w. d o n j o h n s o n s . c o m We have hundreds of Bridal Gowns & Bridesmaids Dresses to select from. ’S TU GROOM re rentals 5 or mo g at startin $57.00 CIAL EDO SPE EE with TUX X FR Betty and Don Dobner Date married: July 17, 1948 (60 years) 18- 2009 Winter Wedding Planner Denny and Kathy Stemen Date married: September 6, 1969 TE D E TEDD V OT DV O ED E TO T V VO dding r Weg Foeddin tions For W pecoens R p e ti Rec Let Us Host or Cater Your Wedding Reception in our • Dance Floors • Capacity Up To 450 Guests • Newly Redecorated Rooms • Full Bar/Alcohol CENTENNIAL BALL ROOM N NN A Gebhard and Ruth Gasser Date married: June 6, 1959 (50 years) • Full Dinners (Served Or Buffet Style) • Hors d’oeuvres • Custom Wedding Cakes • Rehearsal Dinners 3175 W. Elm St., Lima (419) 991-3075 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 19 How to calm wedding jitters (MS) — The work involved with planning a wedding can stress out even the most stable of individuals. Even those brides-to-be who knew all the reasons why they were getting married a few months ago may be facing the prospect of walking down the aisle with anxiety. Call it cold feet or wedding jitters, the feeling is common among newlyweds-to-be. Stress has a funny way of making mountains out of molehills — little idiosyncracies in a partner can quickly grow into horrible character traits. The key is recognizing when fears are just the result of too much planning and not deeprooted relationship issues. Usually a person quickly realizes they're more overwhelmed about the wedding details than the thought of making a commitment. “The What If Guy,” by Taylor G. Wilshire has messages of love, forgiveness and affirmation at its roots, which can offer help at this important time in your life. It also provides an entertaining story that gives you a chance to kick back and escape. 1. Put your thoughts onto paper — Make a list of what is causing the most anxiety. This release technique is something main character Ryley McKenna used in the book to clear her fears and prevent overworrying. Sometimes having all of your racing thoughts organized and on paper can help you rationally address the issues and see that there is no serious cause of the jitters. It can also help you pinpoint a common stress trigger, such as a financial concern or a conflict with a family member. Compare these fears to a list of reasons why you love your partner and want to enter a commitment with this person. This simple task can bring order to jumbled feelings and offer clarity on any nervousness you may have. 2. Learn to relax — Make time for yourself and enjoy activities that are not directly related to wedding planning. For example, some women benefit from a massage or facial treatment. Others find that a relaxing drive or walk along the beach or through another quiet area can help promote calmness. Or take a cue from Ryley and learn to relax by meditating to put your mind at peace: Find a quiet place and focus on deep breathing. 3. Talk to your partner — Open up to your partner about how you are feeling. You just may find that he is experiencing some of the same things as you and that jitters are completely normal. Working through fears to a place of love is one of the underlying concepts of “A Course in Miracles,” the inspirational text that helps guide Ryley throughout the book. By expressing your fears and doubts, and working through them as a team, this can be the first step you take as a married couple to support each other in good times ... and bad. 4. Recognize that changes understandably make people uncomfortable — One of the most life-altering changes a person can make is getting married, particularly if you've both been used to living on your own and making your own decisions. Instead of focusing on what you could be losing by getting married, reaffirm all of the things you will be gaining. It may help to talk to married couples who have been successful in keeping their relationships strong. Remember though, your relationship is unique to only you as a couple. So don’t be sidetracked over what could or may happen. 5. Keep in mind that love is most important — While you want the weather to cooperate and the day to be flawless, you cannot control the outcome of everything when getting married. There may be some minor (or major) bumps along the way. Being able to recover gracefully and enjoy yourself can help start your relationship off on the right foot. Remember, you’ll have many other chances to create winning memories as you grow old together with your partner, so don’t put so much emphasis on the wedding details or the most important moments may pass you by. For further inspiration, see the ways Ryley overcomes challenges to find her path to true love in “The What if Guy.” Lace & Elegance Tiffin Findlay www.LaceandElegance.com Tiffin 2044 S. SR 53 419-447-2111 Hrs.: M-TH 11-8 • Fri. 10-5 • Sat. 10-4 Findlay 15273 US Rt.224 E. (Next to Tom Ahl) 419-424-2199 Hrs.: M, T, TH 11-8 • Fri. 11-5 • Sat. 10-3 Closed Wed. & Sun. 20 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner Beautiful wedding memories can be a snap (MS) — There are a few things that last beyond the wedding as reminders of this special day. Photographs are among the most important. An album full of professional photos and the amateur pictures guests take offer a vivid recreation of a wedding, which can take years to plan, but seems to be over in an instant. Couples should take an active role in planning wedding photos, working in conjunction with their professional photographer to capture the magic of the day. To do so, consider these strategies for lasting wedding day memories. Get to know your photographer and have discussions about what types of photos you want. Many larger photography businesses have a number of photographers working under one business name. In this case, you may not actually meet your phoalbum. Also, interchange portrait shots with candid moments. Candids offer a great way to remember the energy of the day. You may also want to include still-life pictures in the album. Ask your photographer to take photos of the wedding gown on the hanger or the groom’s tux next to his shoes. Encourage guests to take their own photos, but not impede the work of the professional. Guests will be able to capture the great photos professional photographers just won't have the time to take, such as those candid moments when the bridal party is lining up for posed shots or all of the wacky antics of family members at the reception tables. But guests should not try to move in on the photographer's territory. If he or she is setting up lighting and posing for a shot, a guest should not sneak in one of his own. After all, the professional is getting paid for his or her effort and those photos will likely be better than those from the amateur, so why have duplicates? Leave enough time for the photographer to do his or her work. Rushed photos may result in a less desirable finished product. Schedule ample time before and after the ceremony so that the photographer can take the desired shots, such as an hour or more. Have a backup plan for inclement weather. What blushing bride doesn't want beautiful outdoor elements as the backdrop to some photos? Unfortunately, Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate. Have a plan if it’s raining, snowing or a tornado blows through. Your photographer may have an indoor studio where you can take some lovely portraits. Or, scope out interesting spots around the church or reception site. tographer until your wedding day. Rather than have this happen, consider a smaller photography business or make it a point to know who BUTTONS, BOBBINS A N D BRIDES 11360 Rd. 5, Ottawa, OH 45875 Ph. 419-456-3270 Fax: 888-722-7407 M 8-7, T 8-2, W 8-6,Th 8-3, S 9-12 www.ohiobridals.com Your One-Stop Bridal Shop COMPLIMENTARY VACATION WITH BRIDAL GOWN PURCHASE* Ask about our complete bridal package discounts Bridal ~ Prom ~ Maids Flower Girl ~ Mothers ~ Tuxes Quinceanera ~ Shoes ~ ‘09 Jewelry ~ Veils ~ Tiaras ~ ring ns Sp Slips ~ Invitations Gow rom rived! P and all accessories Ar * See store for details Have will be handling your wedding and have a conversation with this person. You need to have a rapport with the photographer — a give and take relationship - so you feel comfortable posing for photos and, in turn, look comfortable in them. Create a photo wish list. There are certain photos that will be standard in a photographer's repertoire (cutting the cake, first dance, exchanging of vows) that you will not need to request. However, there may be special shots or people, such as an out-of-town relative, you want in your album. Make a list of what you want and share your ideas with your photographer well in advance so that he or she can plan to include these shots. Think outside of the box when designing a wedding album. Thanks to digital photography, photographers offer many types of unique photo touches that can make for a very unique album. Consider black-and-white photos, sepia tone or black and white with hand-colored effects. Mix and match to vary the visual interest throughout the 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 21 Before your ‘I Do’s,’ do financial review ARA — One thing you can definitely say about the current credit crunch – it sure isn’t romantic. But for couples about to exchange “I do’s,” a clear understanding of each other’s credit history as singles, and how they will use credit as a couple, is vital to ensure their future wedded bliss. All signs point to the reality that credit is likely to be difficult to get for a while, even for those with good credit scores. Getting married is a life-changing event that will impact your credit rating. It’s important for couples to be open and honest with each other about their credit histories, credit-use habits and plans for using future credit. Credit has become an integral part of the American institution of marriage. If you are newlyweds, you’ll likely require credit to fund some of your basic needs and dreams — from buying your first house to financing the minivan you’ll need to transport the big family you plan to have. Your blended credit rating will decide how easy or difficult it is to secure those loans at favorable rates. So how can you prevent the credit crunch from putting the squeeze on your plans for building a life together? Here are some basic tips: First, exchange credit reports. As a single person, your credit score was a private matter between you and the people you borrowed money from. When you’re married, your credit history becomes linked to your spouse’s and he or she deserves to know ahead of time how you rate with lenders. Knowing what’s on your credit report is the first vital step toward reaching your personal financial goals as a couple. Next, set mutual priorities and goals. If you both have significant debt, perhaps your goal will be to pay that off before incurring any new debt. Pool your earnings to pay off the highest interest debts first — his $9,000 credit card debt may actually cost you more in interest each month than her $14,000 auto loan. If you both are relatively debt-free, good for you. You can turn your attention to setting savings and spending priorities, including saving for a down payment on a house (the low-rate, zerodown loan is virtually extinct), putting money aside for your retirement or building up your cushion of savings in case the economy gets worse and one of you loses a job. Decide which priority is highest on your list, agree on a time frame for reaching that goal and organize a game plan for getting there. It’s important to have these discussions before the wedding. You’ll both enjoy your big day more knowing you’re on the same page regarding your financial future. WEDDING GOWNS •CLEANED •PRESERVED •BOXED DRAPERIES, ALTERATIONS BULK CLEANING FOR INSTITUTIONS LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED RON ROBERTS - OWNER MON., TUE., THURS., FRI. 7:00 AM-5:30 PM WED. 7:00 AM-NOON 419-238-2133 114 N. WASHINGTON VAN WERT, OH Silk Florals by Design “We design it your way” All wedding and other florals. Ann Warnecke 419-234-1389 www.silkfloralsbydesign.com ann@silkfloralsbydesign.com 22 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner Getting engaged is just the beginning ... now what? (MS) — Are you one of the thousands of couples who got engaged over the holidays? This is the time for you and your soon-to-be to get everything you ever wanted -- the time to start from scratch; to upgrade, expand and replace. To turn a whole bunch of mismatched mine and yours into a lifetime of ours. A lot of couples become overwhelmed, feeling they have to get it all done at once. Here are some tips to make wedding planning a breeze: Plan ahead: Start a bridal registry as soon as you say “yes.” This way you will be prepared for your engagement party and bridal shower, for at least two times as many gifts as givers. Your guests will appreciate having lots of choices when they shop for you. Be sure to refresh your list regularly as gifts get purchased. Register now, because you won’t buy it later: You may think you will... but you won’t. Now is the time to let others get you the stuff you’d never buy yourself. Your friends and family might even get together to purchase a higher priced “group gift.” Remember the rule of three: When it comes to setting your table, if you choose bold patterns for your china and flatware, pick a more simple style of glassware. Prefer intricate stemware? Pair it with simpler patterns of china and flatware. So, it’s bold/bold/simple or simple/simple/bold. Three sheets is a win: Register for at least three sets of sheets — one for the bed, one for the linen closet and one for the hamper. This way you won't be forced to do laundry. Congratulations and best wishes on your engagement. Now get registering and let the gift-giving begin. as well as your wedding. Periodically update your registry by adding more products if you need to, even after the wedding. Be kind to procrastinators. Don’t be shy: Register for gifts in a range of prices and categories. This will give guests and group givers lots of options to choose from. Do the math: Here’s an easy rule of thumb: Add up all the gift-givers for both your wedding and bridal shower. Register jx|áË eÉçtÄ VtÜÜ|tzx VÉÅÑtÇç You may pick from any of our royal carriages for your wedding needs. The Wedding Vessel will hold 16 people and is great for the wedding party. The White Royal Carriage seats four adults and two small children The White Cinderella Carriage seats four adults 909 Hook-Waltz Rd. • 419-641-2003 WEDDING GOWN S AMPLE S ALE 200 Designer Gowns from 25 Manufacturers at Unbelievable Prices! Contact Nicor Inc. Sylvania, Ohio 419-882-7400 nicor101@aol.com for detailed list and private showing actual photo of gowns www.weisroyalcarriages.com 99 Gowns @ $99.00 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 23 Wedding folklore, myths and good luck charms Who doesn’t hope for good fortune on their wedding day? That’s why there are so many traditions and steps people take to ensure luck is smiling down on them for their wedding. Here are some traditions you may not have known about. • According to Greek culture, tuck a sugar cube into your glove on your wedding. The sugar will sweeten your union. • English tradition says that Wednesday is the best day to marry. Monday is for wealth and Tuesday is for health. • The groom carries his newly betrothed across the threshold to protect her from evil spirits. • Hindu tradition says rain on your wedding day is good luck. • For good luck, Egyptian women are known to pinch the bride on her wedding day. • In Holland a pine tree is planted outside of the newlyweds’ home for good luck and fertility. • A law in 1775 said a wedding was not legal if the bride wore makeup during the ceremony. • Wedding and engagement rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it was long believed a vein ran from that finger directly to the heart. • Ancient Greeks and Romans said a wedding veil protected the bride from evil spirts. It has been a tradition to wear a veil ever since. • The term “tie the knot” comes from Roman times when the bride wore a girdle tied in knots that the groom was later able to untie. Some also believe it refers to the knots of rope that were tied to form the marriage bed. Wedding day stains are fairly common, and almostanything you spill on your wedding gown will show. Here’s a quick-fix guide to help you out if you find yourself in trouble. WEDDING GOWN SURVIVAL GUIDE Keep the following items handy so you can treat stains, fix tears, or replace buttons in no time flat: • A handful of white and clear buttons • White beads • A white cloth or handkerchief • Small spool of white or clear thread • A needle • Safety pins or transparent tape • Small bottle of rubbing alcohol • Small bottle of seltzer water • Baby wipes for stain removal Makeup: Clean with a dry cloth or cloth slightly dampened with a small amount of water. Champagne & Wine: Contain sugar as well as dye. Use a wet napkin and blot, don’t rub. Coffee and Tea: Blot with seltzer water. Wedding Cake: Blot with a cloth, with soda water or baby wipes. Catering by Jeanne ...even better than Mom’s Catering for any size wedding Experience with 600+ guests Wedding rehearsal dinners Bridal Showers Luncheons Birthdays Dinner Parties Office Functions A unique menu with many choices! ALL HOMEMADE The cafe is also open for lunch! Drop Off Centers: The Mr. Shoppe, Coldwater and Gagel Hardware, Maria Stein Located at Jeanne’s Kitchen 419-234-8650 112 Vine St., Bluffton Tu e s . - F r i . 1 1 - 2 Friday night dinner 5-7 219 S. Main St., Celina • 419-586-3385 Open M, T, W & F 6 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Th. & Sat. 7 a.m.-noon 24 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner The Bridal Emporium “Making Every Girl’s Dream Come True” ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ Bridal Gowns Bridesmaids Mothers of Bride and Groom Flowers Girls Dresses Tuxedos Prom Dresses Wedding Accessories Stores Hours: Monday, Wednesday 9am-7pm; Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9 am-5pm; Saturday 9 am - 4 pm; Sunday by appointment only 29 E. Auglaize St., Wapakoneta, Ohio 45895 Phone: 419-738-8565 www.thebridalemporium.net in 2007 for wedding reception hall. Next to LCC on N. Cable Rd., Lima Ask about our rehearsal dinner special 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 25 Creating your bridal makeup look By Kellie Keck celebrity makeup artist When it comes to how you are going to look on your wedding day nothing can be a more personal decision! How will you wear your hair, how will your makeup look and will everything come together to show your personal style? How you will look in person and in photos is an important part of the planning process and I am here to help you in regards to the makeup. By the time you are done with this article you will be ready to plan your wedding day look! One of the first decisions you will have to make is should you do your makeup yourself, have a friend do it, hire a makeup artist or have it done at the salon? One of the factors to weigh is your budget. Hiring a makeup artist can seem like an expense but when weighed with the benefits it generally is worth it. It is usually my recommendation for a big event like your wedding to hire a professional makeup artist that can airbrush your makeup. It allows you to relax and have a professional deal with all of the details that you may not consider especially when it comes to makeup for photography. There are many levels of talent when it comes to a makeup artist and one of the things you need to look for is someone you feel comfortable with. Make sure you meet in person before the wedding and make sure you have a trial run of the makeup. You should feel comfortable communicating to your makeup artist and they should be willing to listen and follow through. There are many options Weekly, Life and Style or People magazine. There are great close up shots of celebrities in these weekly magazines and you can find a look that closely resembles what you want. A picture is worth a thousand words especially if you are having someone else do your makeup. After you have decided on a look give it a try! Do a trial run to see how it looks and when you are take some photos of yourself to see how the makeup photographs. Make sure you take some photos with a flash so you will have a good idea of See CREATING, page 27 Kellie Keck when looking for a makeup artist from a makeup artist that will come to your location to do your makeup to having it done and a salon or a makeup counter. Some makeup artists also airbrush the foundation on and all of these things are things to consider when you are planning your makeup. Ask questions, ask for examples of their work and don’t forget to listen to your gut feeling. After you have determined who will be doing your makeup you need to decide what kind of look you are going for. Many brides opt for a natural and glowing look while others want a little more drama and a smoky eye. A few of the things to consider are: how do you usually wear your makeup in your day-to-day life, your style and what time of day is your wedding? While the “rules” have loosened throughout time the safe plan is if your wedding is in the morning lean more towards a pretty, traditional bridal look. If your wedding is in the evening lean more towards a smoky eye or a bold lip look. A great place to go for inspiration on makeup looks is your nearest drugstore. Pick up a few copies of Us 26 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner 1969 NEW SPRING STYLES ARRIVING FOR BRIDAL, BRIDESMAIDS, MOTHERS AND FLOWER GIRLS! TUXEDOS ...HEADPIECES & VEILS ... INVITATIONS ... ACCESSORIES & GIFTS ... JEWELRY SHOES ... AND MUCH MORE lorisewspecial@roadrunner.com www.lorisewspecial.net 1982 Cakes (Continued from page 8) means three milk. This was something I had never done before and I tried it and it was delicious. But if a bride will come in requesting a sugar-free cake, I can’t bring myself to do it. I understand that there might be reasons to request a sugarfree cake, like if someone has diabetes, but I’ve tried making cakes without sugar before and it just isn’t the same. It’s your wedding day, the cake has to taste great.” While Benavidez can certainly create simple and traditional cakes, he can also make some truly wild creations. “One of my favorite cakes was this stacked cake that the bride actually helped me design,” he said. “It was made with bright pink located in DEFIANCE, OHIO Special Order Gowns Also Available. We help you save time and money! hours by appointment 419.782.2509 and green fondant and we used daisies for decoration. The craziest cake that I’ve ever made was this one that we called the ‘Madhatter’ cake. It was stacked and it had a bumblebee on the top of it. The fondant was a brightly colored checkered design.” Whether it’s simpe and elegant or crazy and elaborate, Benavides says that he never forgets a cake. “I remember every cake I’ve ever designed,” he said. “I may not remember exactly who I made it for at first, but I always remember the cake. I can look at a picture and still remember making it.” The first two cakes he ever created seemed to have been the most memorable due to sentimentality. “The first wedding cake I created was for a friend’s wedding 15 years ago. I did it as a gift,” he says. “Not long after that I made my second wedding cake, which was for my own wedding.” One of Benavidez’s creations is being featured in the spring/summer ‘09 edition of “The Knot, Ohio” photographed by Brandy J Photography. Creating 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 27 OPENING IN MAY FREE DELUXE BREAKFA ST FREE WIRELESS HIGH SPEED INTERNET HEATED INDOOR POOL SUITES WITH WHIRLPOOL EXERCISE ROOM • FREE HBO ALL ROOMS HAVE REFRIGERATOR, MICROWAVE COFFEE MAKER, HAIR DRYER & IRON MEETING ROOMS AVAILABLE 419-232-6040 TOLL FREE 1-800-HOLIDAY 465-4329 (Continued from page 25) how the makeup reacts. This is a time when you should stay away from heavy sunscreens in your makeup. You will also want to be careful with putting a lot of shimmer on your face. Sometimes what looks good in person does not look so good in photographs. You can now wear the makeup throughout the day and make notes if anything needs to be tweaked. Here are a few products that everyone will want to use on the day of their wedding. These are the bare minimums even for those brides out there that don’t wear makeup regularly. You are going to want a little so that your face comes across flawless and you are camera ready for your big day. • Foundation — Pick the appropriate coverage and color. You will want to even your skin tone and create a beautiful finish. This is where airbrush foun- dation is worth its weight in gold. You can achieve a flawless and waterproof look with out it being heavy or cakey. • Concealer — Dab it where you need it and don’t forget the under eye area. • Powder — Apply it where it is needed and keep some around for touch ups. • Mascara — This will help open your eyes and keep you looking awake all throughout the day. Just make sure that if you cry you have a waterproof mascara on. • Lipstick or tinted lip balm — You are going to want a little color to your lips even if the color is a touch deeper than your natural lip color. The makeup should be a fun and exciting aspect of planning your wedding! Enjoy it! This is the day when everyone will be looking at you so be ready to bat those lashes and know you look radiant! (JUNCTION HWY 30 & US 127) VAN WERT, OH 45891 336 N. Main St. Minster, Ohio Bridal Events February 13-16 Allure Exclusive Trunk Show February 27-March 1 Alfred Angelo On Tour 419-628-7555 www.emmysbridal.com Hours: Mon.,Wed.,Thurs. 10-8 Tues. & Fri. 10-5; Sat. 9-3 OPEN SUNDAYS Jan. 25-April 5 • 12-4 28 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner Old (Continued from page 14) wardrobe. Bridesmaids can wear a simple black cocktail dress so that they’re not left with a taffeta creation that will only hang in the closet afterward. If you decide to go more traditional with wardrobe, find out if gowns can be recycled or donated so that they can be reused in another way. • Choose recycled materials for wedding invitations and announcements: There are an increasing number of suppliers creating invitations from recycled materials. Some will do all the assembly for you; other less expensive items may be more hands-on. Cut down on further use of paper by creating a wedding Web site where you post directions, maps, party times, and other essential information so you avoid extra slip-in sheets with your invitations. • Create car-pool options: Bus guests to your venue to save on gas. It is also a safer option for those who will be indulging in alcoholic beverages at the party since they won't have to drive on the return trip home. • Investigate ecologically responsible wedding jewelry: According to Greenkarat, purveyors of ecologically responsible engagement rings and wedding bands, 2,500 tonnes of gold are mined each year, even though there is enough gold above ground (already mined) to satisfy all demands of the jewelry industry for the next 50 years. Much of it sits in bank vaults and in the form of old and unused jewelry. See if you can recycle old jewelry into something new. Or embrace the senti- Couples (Continued from page 2) of the country. Keep in mind that if you have your heart set on all of your friends and family being able to attend your wedding, destination weddings may not be the way to go. That’s because even with the best planning, it’s relatively impossible for everyone’s schedules to coordinate for this kind of event. While there certainly are negatives to having a wedding away from home, the growing list of positives attracts more and more couples each year: • reduced fuss over a wedding that takes place at home, where most of the planning is being handled by the couple • budgetary factors, including lower costs for a less elaborate affair • informal choices for wedding attire, saving even more money • something different for the couples who like to stand out • alternatives for second weddings or those who prefer less tradition • loosening of marriage laws overseas, which make it easier for couples to tie knot in foreign locales • the opportunity for “destination anniversaries,” where couples can revisit their wedding site for even more memories Couples looking to add excitement to their wedding without much fuss can turn to destination weddings when tying the knot. Cakes: Wedding Anniversary Wedding Birthday All-Occasion Cakes Anniversary Mints Birthday Cakes: Q Wedding Ceremonies Q Q Wedding Receptions Q Various Room Sizes Expansive Parking Complete Packages Available Total Event Planning Seating for Over 500 All-Occasion Cakes Mints (419) 965-2581 Leota & Steve Anderson 206 N. Main Ohio City, Ohio Leota &of Anderson House206StevePastries N. Main Ohio City, Ohio (419) 965-2581 Leota & Steve Anderson 206 N. Main Ohio 965-2581 (419)City, Ohio 601 N. Main Street • Bluffton, Ohio 45817 1 . n t , o Bring this ad when you book and receive $50 off www.thecentreonline.com • 419-358-8533 H fP t House of Pastries House of Pastries 2009 Winter Wedding Planner - 29 Family (Continued from page 4) that his teenage son and daughter might not warm to the idea of a family service. “But once we gave them the medallions, I could feel in them a palpable sense of relief — that they knew everything was going to be OK.” Most of the guests attending the Lehman-Simonelli wedding were awed by the family ceremony. “We got tons of compliments,” says Lynn. “People told us that they had never seen such a unique and beautiful way to recognize children.” More than 15,000 couples annually use the Family Medallion ceremony to help strengthen the bond between parents, stepparents and children. “I was very impressed with the Family Medallion ceremony,” says Rev. David Schaal, a Minneapolis minister. “When I recently used it during a wedding, I could see the pride and happiness in the face the little boy who received the medallion. It’s my feeling that when children are involved, it’s important to do something tangible to recognize them during the wedding.” Lynn and Cliff believe that their decision to have a “family” wedding will strengthen their family bond for years to come. “As our kids grow older, I hope they appreciate the value of family and what we did to assure them that they would always be an integral part of our lives,” Lynn says. Andrew Lehman, 8, isn’t thinking much about the future. He wears his Family Medallion every day and refers to the wedding as, “The day my mom, my stepdad and all of us kids got married. My medallion means family. That’s what we are.” Packing (Continued from page 12) Hankey. Schuller also suggests a matte jersey dress that can be rolled up and won’t wrinkle for one special night out. Just throw in a pair of dressy heels to wear with the dress and jeans and a pair of flip-flops for the hot tub and you’re ready to go. If you decide to jet off to a destination like Paris or New York for your honeymoon, Schuller stresses you should not forget to bring along a pair of comfortable and stylish shoes on your journey. “You can pack a little more, because you won’t have golf clubs or skis in tow,” says Hankey. She suggests you wear jeans and flats on the plane, along with a simple sweater and dressy jacket or coat. Bring a pashmina in a fashionable bag as your carry-on. Your suitcase should contain a couple of simple dresses. “Wrap dresses work very well because you can roll them up,” says Hankey. Don’t forget your basic black slacks and a variety of thin tops and sweaters that can be dressed up or down. “Jewelry and a Hermes scarf can really transform an outfit,” she points out. No matter the destination, Hankey stresses that you should always take along travel size toiletries -- they’re usually under the three-ounce carry-on limit and take up little room in your checked bags. Schuller adds, “Don’t forget to allow room for souvenirs, because if you overpack, you can’t bring anything new home.” Both Hankey and Schuller have one last piece of advice: don’t forget the lingerie. As Schuller points out “it’s not like it takes up a lot of room.” 30 - 2009 Winter Wedding Planner GREAT WEDDING GIFT IDEA! Read The Delphos Herald every day for news stories, sports highlights and photos, engagements, weddings and birth announcements. Get a heads-up on what’s happening from your hometown newspaper ... subscribe to The Delphos Herald, 405 N. Main St., Delphos, OH 45833. Ph. 419-695-0015. 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