Ever After Spring 2009

1...... Spring/Summer 2009

Spring/Summer 2009

colorado’s guide to unique wedding celebrations

Great Dresses Under $1,000

Look Glamorous Without Going Over Your Budget

Color Schemes &Themes Choose the Right Hues to Make Your Wedding Day Pop

Priceless ParadiseHow to Plan an Affordable Destination

Wedding (It’s Easier Than You Think)

Cater to Your Every NeedMake Your Reception Deliciously Unique

“For the Day when you want to be your most beautiful...”

Changing Faces Laser and Med Spa735 S Xenon Court, Suite 101Lakewood, Co 80228

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4...... Spring/Summer 2009 www.everaftercolorado.com EverAfter ......54...... Spring/Summer 2009

SPRING 2009 EDITIONVolume 1, Number 2

Publisher James Diaz

Advertising director Bud Simon

MAnAging editor John Cargile

creAtive director Yashpal Singh

AssociAte editor Charron Conley

contributing editors Ryan Peacock Caitlin Kelly Jeanne Fischer

Art director Jennifer Harlow

contributing designer Marissa Ayres

oFFice MAnAger Theresa Hall

Account eXecutives Anne Kremer Ellen Schneeweis Tony Sollenbarger Char Stunkel Venna Hillman James Lawn Ryan Cross

Ever After is published by Metro Mountain Media, LLP, a MediaNews Group Company.

Ever After Magazine 3801 East Florida Avenue, Suite 100

Denver, Colorado 80210

Phone: 303.954.3456 Fax: 303.758.3378

email: [email protected]

To order a copy or find subscription information please contact Ever After Magazine.

Visit us on the web: www.everaftercolorado.com www.metmtn.com

Metro Mountain Media also publishes Mountain Vacations, EDU Colorado, Front Range Family

Living Healthy, Spaces & Shopping Sense Magazines.

Ever After is printed by American Web on FSC-certified paper. It contains fiber from well-managed forests and meets EPA guidelines

that recommend a minimum 10% post-consumer recovered fiber for coated papers. Inks used contain a percentage of soy base. Our printer meets

or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) standards.

United States Environmental Protection AgencyEPA

J S. S

,

Spring/Summer 2009

Features

28

6 Priceless Paradise How to plan an affordable

destination wedding.

11 A Colorado Wedding Colleen and Chris Parente, a family affair.

14 Color Themes & Schemes The right color scheme gives the perfect

splash of color and style to your wedding day.

18 Great Gowns for Less The perfect gown doesn’t have to cost a

fortune! Check out these gorgeous and inexpensive styles.

11

contents

22 Cater to Your Every Need

How you and your caterer can make your reception memorable.

25 Dream Weddings Without Breaking the Bank

Smart ways to save money on your big day.

27 Gifts for Your Guests The right favors put the perfect

finishing touch on your wedding day.

29 Wedding Resource Directory

On the CoverAndrew Reisbeck and Lindsey Tilton, pictured here at Arvada’s Old Flour Mill. The couple married September 6, 2008 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arvada. Photography: Susan Pacek

14


planning

H ow would you like to exchange vows among gleaming white buildings

in Greece, or perhaps among the sunflowers and rolling hills of the Tuscan

countryside? For many brides, a destination wedding in a far-off, exotic location

is the ultimate fantasy. From traditional locations like Hawaii or Mexico to

more exotic places like Fiji or Australia, the options for a memorable destination

wedding are endless. Many people believe that destination weddings are a

luxury reserved for the rich and famous, but this is simply not the case. With

enough planning and thorough research, a destination wedding fantasy can

actually turn into a very affordable reality. Read on to learn how to plan the

ultimate destination wedding without breaking the bank.

The Date When choosing your ideal destination and date for the wedding, find out when the peak tourist season is. Rather than scheduling your wedding during tourist season, choose a date that falls either before or after peak time. This way, you and your guests will save money on airfare and lodging, and making arrangements with wedding venues and vendors will be much easier.

The guest List As a general rule, destination weddings are much smaller than traditional hometown weddings. Whereas a Stateside wedding may include 150 or more guests, a destination wedding will usually range from 10 to 50 guests. Limiting your guest list to immediate family and close friends makes for a much more meaningful and intimate ceremony, and allows you to spend more quality together in the days beforehand. Financially speaking, a limited guest list is great because it can help you cut the cost of the food, drinks and cake at the reception. Remember: you and your fiancé should decide on a guest list and send out invitations as early as possible so your guests have time to make the appropriate work and travel arrangements.

Travel and Lodging Discounts When you are making travel and hotel arrangements, be sure to find out about any available discounts or special deals for you and your guests. For example, many airlines offer discounted seats for groups of ten or more. Also, it is common practice for hotels to offer special room rates for the bride, groom and guests. Should you and your fiancé choose to stay at the resort for your honeymoon as well, you may be eligible for free room upgrades or discounts on activities and spa services.

With enough planning and thorough research, a destination wedding fantasy can actually turn into a very affordable reality

—How To Plan Affordable Destination Weddings

By Caitlin Kelly

Beautiful white buildings shimmer in the Greek sun.

The perfect spot for a casual beach wedding.

ParadisePricelessThe laid-back nature of destination weddings can help couples have a fun, relaxing wedding experience. Photo courtesy of Dreamtime Images.


BRIDE PACKAGETrial and Wedding Day Make-UpTrial and Wedding Day UpdoManicure/PedicureSignature FacialEyebrow Sculpting/Lip Wax5 Tan Package (Complimentary)

$275 (Comes with Touch-up Gift Set)

GROOM PACKAGEClip, Buff & PolishCustomized FacialNeck, Back or Chest WaxingHaircut5 Tans (Complimentary)

$120 (Groom and Bride for $375)

BRIDES MAIDS PACKAGEWedding Day Make-UpWedding Day Updo$90 (With 3 or More: $75 each)

MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE PACKAGEWedding Day Wash, Blow-Dry & StyleWedding Day Make-Up $70

Come to Fabu and enjoy a fabu-lous pampering with any of our professional Stylists, Estheticians or Nail Technicians.

Salon Fabu is managed by people who have a vested interest in ensuring that your salon needs at Fabu are serviced by the best

quality and standards available within the industry.

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planning If you choose to have your wedding at a resort in a popular location like Mexico or the Caribbean, chances are you’ll work with the hotel’s on-site wedding and events coordinator at little or no charge. This coordinator will be able to help you with everything from navigating the country’s

marriage laws to planning the reception. He or she can also recommend and book local vendors for things like flowers and music, all while staying within your budget. This will save you the trouble and high cost of hiring your own wedding planner, and you can relax knowing that your special day is in capable, experienced hands.

Decorations The great thing about choosing decorations for your destination wedding is that you don’t really need any! Because you’ll already be in a stunning location, you can limit decorations to a few arrangements of local flowers, or perhaps some lights or lanterns for a nighttime reception. When it comes to destination weddings, allow Mother Nature to take care of the decorations for you.

When done right, destination weddings are a great way to throw a truly unique celebration without spending a fortune. This is a wonderful opportunity for you and the ones you love to spend quality time together, have fun and celebrate the new journey that you and your fiancé are about to begin.o

planning

When it comes to destination weddings, you can allow Mother Nature to take care of the decorations for you

At Rebecca j Salon,we are dedicated to making

your “special day”as special as you are. We will travel to your

location, if desired, or come into the Studio. We will take care of all your bride and bridal party

beauty transformations.

We offer:Bridal Hairstyles

Facials and MassageMake-up for the entire bridal party

Manicures, PedicuresHair/Eyelash ExtensionsHoneymoon Makeover

(will teach you how to do hair/makeup to look your best)

Rebecca j Studio [email protected]

www.rebeccajsalon.com19555-B East Main St. Parker, CO

FREE GIFT with Complete

Bridal MakeoverCall for details

25% OFFhair/makeup

application with mention of adCall for details

Make Your DayExtra Special

Ask about our cosmetic enhancements (botox, ect.)

Let us Travel to you

Take the opportunity to dine on fresh and fabulous specialties

Simple attire and fresh flowers create a ceremony that’s casual yet beautiful. Photo courtesy of Dreamtime Images.

www.everaftercolorado.com EverAfter ......11

WeddingA Colorado

featured wedding

Colleen & Chris Parente — A Family Affair

T he Wedding took place at Cherokee Ranch and Castle in Sedalia on September 8, 2008. Colleen Murphy

met Chris Parente in the emergency room one evening while she was working as an ER paramedic and he

was a Deputy Sheriff and the rest was history. The theme was orchids—the bride’s favorite flower. Fuchsia

and orange were the colors for the bridesmaid dresses, table linens, and flowers. The bride’s palate choice

made for an explosion of color in the reception tent. The ceremony took place overlooking Pikes Peak. Both

of Chris’ two daughters Madisyn and Makala, and Colleen’s son Johnathan participated in a sand pouring

ceremony with the couple that represented a blending of a new family.

The new family performs a sand-pouring ceremony.


BROADMOOR COTTAGES BRING DESTINATION WEDDINGS homeWhat if you could combine the intimacy of a

home wedding with a destination so majestic that it

takes your breath away? What if you could have

your family and closest friends with you to share the

experience, but with privacy usually found only at

remote island retreats or expensive European estates?

It’s not an unattainable dream. It is a destination

wedding at The Broadmoor – family style – in your

own enclave called Broadmoor Cottages.

For more information about the recently opened

Broadmoor Cottages and to learn how The

Broadmoor can stage your perfect wedding, please

visit broadmoor.com or call our catering department

at 866.290.4414.

featured wedding

CatererPanache

Tim (303.790.2648) www.terracegardens.com

Photography Chris Sharber Photography

(303.618.7618) www.sharberphoto.com

Videographer

Rising Moon Video ProductionsMike Novelli (303.990.3072)

155 South Downing StreetDenver, CO 80209

[email protected] www.risingmoonvideo.com

PianoLuke (303.502.7733)

The theme was orchids—the bride’s favorite flower…the bride’s palate choice made for an explosion of color in the reception tent

Cake Masterpiece Cakeshop

[email protected] (303.763.5754)

Ceremony and Reception Venue Cherokee Ranch and Castle

613 N. Daniels Park Rd., Sedalia, CO 80135 [email protected]

www.cherokeeranch.org (303.688.5555)

LinensChair covers and linens

Nick (303.768.0864)

FloristFlorEscence Bea Blanc (303.915.9031)

[email protected]

String TrioPtarmingan (303.444.6765)

DJSweetness and Company

Ron (303.237.7777)www.sweetnessandcompany.com

The couple made sure to include the children in their ceremony.

Colleen and Chris share a kiss amid beautiful surroundings. Bold linen colors set the stage for a fantastic reception.

Brightly colored accents on the cake carry out the vibrant color scheme.

Colleen’s beautiful dress is highlighted by the classic elegance of the Cherokee Ranch and Castle.

Looking Sharp: The happy couple, wedding party and guests strike a pose after the ceremony.


planning

From bridesmaid dresses to the cake, the right color scheme can add the perfect pop of color and style to your wedding day

Color Choosing Your Perfect Wedding Colors

Schemes We all remember Julia Roberts’ declaration in Steel Magnolias that her wedding colors would be “blush and bashful.” Today choosing a wedding color theme is a much more complicated task. Deciding on the perfect colors for your wedding is one of the first and most important jobs for a bride-to-be. There are many questions to take into consideration about shade choice. What mood do you want to create? Vibrant colors add drama, while soft colors evoke a more romantic atmosphere. What time of year will you marry? The season in which you marry can greatly influence your color scheme. Spring and sum-mer colors themes tend to be lighter, while fall and winter colors are generally richer and darker. There are some tools that can help you determine how to answer the many questions that come with choosing colors. Here are some fun and easy ways to select the cornerstone for your décor.

Themes&By Charron Conley

Brandon Gullet and Nicole Rich married

at Vail’s Interfaith Chapel. Their cake was

made by Eat Dessert First Bakery. The

reception was held at Donovan Pavilion

in Vail and Decorated by Fleur De Liz,

Florist. The contrasting color scheme of

green and brown with accents of orange

and fuchsia made a dramatic and vibrant

statement for this spring wedding.

Chris Sharber Photography.


planning

Coordinate your color scheme to complement your wedding flowers

The Color WheelA color wheel helps you choose coordinating colors. It is made out of three primary colors: red, blue and yellow, plus a blend of in-between colors. There are 3 different ways to use the color wheel to choose combinations:

2. monochromatic Scheme The monochro-matic scheme uses many shades of a single color. Each bridesmaid could wear a different shade of blue for her dress, and the bouquets include irises, lilies, and delphinium. This scheme looks clean and elegant. Monochro-matic colors go well together, producing a soothing effect. The monochromatic scheme is very easy on the eyes, especially with blue or green hues.

3. related Scheme Consider having related tones; ones adjacent to each other on the color wheel. An example of this would be green brides-maid’s dresses with blue sashes. Related colors may also include maroon and plum, pink and lav-ender, or lemon and sage. These colors make decorating a breeze.

1. Complimentary Scheme Complimentary shades are located opposite each other on the color wheel. For example, lavender and pale yellow, or forest green and burgundy. If you really love one hue in particular, you might want to highlight it among neutrals. So, bridesmaid dresses might be cream with purple sashes and groomsmen might wear off-white tuxedos with purple boutonnieres. Complementary colors are very popular choices for weddings because they add vibrancy and contrast.

Color Schemes Themes&

Calla Lilies Beautiful, resilient, versatile, and full of meaning, calla lilies are among the most popular flowers for weddings. Although white is the most popular color, there are many other options including varying shades of pink, white with pink tips, green, burgundy, yellow and orange.

Dahlias Lush and stylish, dahlias are perfect fall blossoms since they come in autumnal tones like red, burgundy, orange and plum.

roses This is the most traditional wedding flower. A color scheme such as pink, red, brick and plum is very popular for summer and fall. A structured, densely packed and dome-shaped bouquet is a nice way to use this flower.

Orchids These flowers speak the language of love and beauty and have throughout history. You can find orchids in color variations of white, yellow, orange, green, purple, pink and red.

Tulips Many find the tulip to be the most popular wedding flower. A red tulip conveys “a declaration of love,” cream color tulip means “love forever” and a yellow tulip means “hopelessly in love.”

Flowers Take a hue cue from your favorite flower. If you are planning to use specific flowers for your arrangements, coordinate your color scheme around them. Rich jewel-tones are very popular right now, including deep purple, bold blues, and vibrant reds and pinks.

Setting The setting of your wedding is a great way to help decide what colors to choose. What type the venue is it? A barn or lodge? A city museum? A garden or beach? A ballroom? What you chose will have a big say in the colors you use to decorate it. Look at the colors used in your venue’s carpeting, drapery and decorations. If the site has strong colors, you’ll need to select a color scheme that complements. If you already have your heart set on a certain color, you may need to select a more neutrally decorated site. If the location is outside, the scenery can also help dictate color choice. For example, if you are having a beach wedding, you would want to choose colors that complement the color of the sand, sky, and ocean. These can be silver, bright tones of yellow, green, purple, pink, and red. Garden weddings already provide you with a dominantly green background, so you would probably want to opt for soft shades of blue, pink, purple, yellow, red, and orange.

Every detail of your wedding should reflect your favorites, from gown to shoes, flowers to food. By choosing a color scheme right from the start, your wedding decor will reflect your own personal taste and look beautiful in every detail. No matter what you choose for your wedding colors, remember that this is a detail that will stick out the most with your guests. It will be the center and focal point of flowers, dresses and decorations. So, be sure when you choose a color, you choose carefully and be sure it is something that compliments your wedding party and the atmosphere that you want to set for your wedding. o

Vibrant pinks and oranges contrast beautifully with the lush green surroundings of outdoor weddings. Photography by Rebecca Bouck. Image provided by Ethnic Essence.

The bridesmaid’s bright green gowns complement the pink and orange bouquets nicely.

Chris Sharber Photography

18...... Spring/Summer 2009 www.everaftercolorado.com EverAfter ......19

Gowns$1,000Under

By Amy Cornish

fashion

Great Attend a Sample SaleMost bridal shops hold sample sales, marking down their designer dresses up to 75% off. The store is making room for new styles or getting rid of dresses that are too tattered from repeat test drives. Find out when the next sample sale is scheduled and plan to get there early. You should have an idea about what you are looking for in a dress and pluck items off the rack with abandon: be fast and savvy as the competition can be fierce. Choosing a gown with less ornamentation or opting for embellishments on only a part of the dress may lower the price tag significantly. If you find something you like, expect to pay $100 or more to get the dress cleaned. Since sample dresses are usually sizes 6, 8 or 10, alterations will most likely be in your future as well (see our sidebar Taking It In). Speak to a seamstress if possible to make sure the alterations you anticipate are realistic. You don’t want to destroy the integrity of the dress or your budget.

Buy Online and/or ConsignedSure you’ll have to skip trying on the dress before you purchase it but buying online could save you hundreds of dollars. eBay offers a section devoted to new and used wedding dresses as well as bridal accessories such as veils, garment bags and slips. ThePerfectGowns.com is a family owned and operated company offering discount bridal gowns (up to $500) on the internet since 1999. “Our clients are normally not your 20-something first time brides. They are usually in their mid-30s and are more concerned with feeling beautiful than all the fanfare of finding a wedding dress. They are budget-conscious and love the convenience of shopping online,” says Anne Burnell, the website’s founder. One example from the inventory is this strapless ivory dress with corded lace that sells for $195. Trimmed at the neckline with organza and sprinkles of beading and sequence, the bodice is accented with corded lace and delicate silk flowers. Satin buttons trail all the way to the tail of the chapel train. This gown is fully lined with built in netting and additional crinoline creates a fuller skirt.

Founded by Joanne Stoner, eDressMe.com and its companion store are based in New York City’s Garment District. Brides can find designer selections as well as eDress’s in-house label, which focuses on celebrity-inspired looks. This antique white georgette design by Nicole Miller is a flowing 92% silk, 8% spandex loose and airy dress. It has a plunging v-neckline and a halter top that ties at the neck with a twisted bodice and empire waist. Edressme.com sold it for $575.

Find A Dress That Fits Your Budget

If you’re willing to forego a quaint atmosphere, a larger retailer is a great option for finding a reasonably priced dress

Some believe the wedding gown sets the tone for the entire event. While

that places an enormous expectation on one outfit, it is important to make

sure you are in a dress you look and feel great wearing on your wedding

day. Since this is one of the biggest celebrations you will host, it’s natural to

feel compelled to spend big money on what you wear.

With so many designers out there, it’s easy to lose your way in a sea of

diamonds while trying on silk gowns priced $3K and up. Take this oppor-

tunity to play: it’s one of the only chances you get to try on the finest fabrics

around and it’s informative. You’ll learn the difference between polyester

and silk by feeling how each fabric-type falls, flows and feels against your

skin. Have a good time. Buy one of these dresses if it’s in your budget. But

if it’s not, don’t feel dismayed. You can successfully budget $1000 for dress,

accessories and alterations and feel stunning doing it. Here are a few sug-

gestions for getting quality couture at an affordable price.

Ordering online means you can buy an extraordinary dress for a fraction of the cost

This satin pick-up ballgown with draped bodice from the David’s Bridal Collection retails for $499 and is available in white or ivory. It has a chapel train but can be special ordered without it.

The Galina Collection at David’s Bridal is geared

towards modern brides with a more informal

approach to their wedding. This tea-length organza

A-line number has clean lines with ribbon detail

and a bow back. Available in ivory or white, the

gown retails for $299.

Skip the Boutique If you’re willing to forego a quaint atmosphere, a larger retailer is a great option for finding a reasonably priced dress. In business over 50 years, David’s Bridal offers silhouettes ranging from sleek satin sheaths to full princess-cut tulle ball gowns in sizes 0-18, including their “Woman” Collection for plus-size brides (sizes 14W- 26W). The range alone allows any bride-to-be to walk into one of their over 200 locations nationwide and find a dress in her actual size, which helps reduce alteration costs. Further savings can be found by ordering online or hitting one of their ongoing sales, especially their $99 bridal gown sale. o

Visit a Familiar FriendJ. Crew is one retailer offering ready-to-wear wedding dress lines at very affordable prices. This is perfect option for a bride short on time and looking to save some cash. At $795, the Feather Chiffon is an elegant gown with the softest of silk. The fitted bodice features a scooped neckline that gently gives way to a flattering trumpet skirt, emphasized by a silky sash at the waist.

Don’t Buy a “Wedding Dress”Brides aching to wear silk might want to consider purchasing a bridesmaid dress. You might have to pay an extra fee because some designers charge for a single white dress order, but this option is a balance between luxury and frugality. Remember you will need to place your order up to five months in advance to avoid a rush charge, this step alone will save you money in the end. If you want a big name, you could go shopping at an upscale store and purchase a designer dress off the rack. There’s a wonderful Proenza Schouler Natural Bustier Dress at Saks Fifth Avenue for $750. It has silk lining and is softly gathered with a plunging neckline. The dress cinches at the waist with a double buckle wide belt and has a back keyhole detail.

Breaking Budget ExpectationsMerona for Target offers a formal dress designs coming in well below $100. This strapless dress is made using french cream sateen fabric. It is a simple, clean look that will pop with accessories such as a colorful sash. Available in tall sizes, the dress originally sold for 49.99.

Outside Liquor: NoOutside Catering Allowed: YesSeating Capacity: 120 to 1,000Guest Accommodations: No, but

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Best Kept Secret sitting on over 1,050 acres of event and park space

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building off ers a beautiful setting that will make any Wedding or

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A C R P

A WEDDING VENUE OF NATURAL BEAUTY

www.everaftercolorado.com EverAfter ......2120...... Spring/Summer 2009

fashion

22...... Spring/Summer 200922...... Spring/Summer 2009 www.everaftercolorado.com EverAfter ......23

Couples Should Expect Exceptional Service from Their Wedding Caterers At your reception, you can have food of several different cultures or you can mix two cultures to create a completely unique banquet for your guests

Non-traditional Wedding Cakes There are a multitude of ways to make the wedding cake unique. “The non-traditional cake topper is very popular,” explains Marjorie, owner of Azucar Bakery in Englewood. “I’ve also had requests for mad hatter cakes and custom icing and decorations.” Mad hatter cakes boast an artistic lopsidedness. Layers are not cake-pan-perfect but look like they’ve been slightly and artistically squashed. The overall look, however, is surprisingly pleasing. At Azucar Bakery, couples can bring their own cake designs. Marjorie showed me pictures of the themed cakes she had created based on designs drawn by the couples ordering the cakes. One cake was poker-themed with a king and queen of hearts as the topper. And my personal favorite was a cake with a theme of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Non-traditional cakes like these are showing up at weddings all over Colo-rado. Couples are seeking ways to make their cakes uniquely representative of their relationship.

Four to five months before the wedding, ask yourselves what flavor and design of cake you want. Instead of a white cake, try a chocolate one or layered cheesecakes. Non-traditional wedding cakes are all the rage this year, and guests will often enjoy them more than a traditional cake.

Unique Catering The cake is just one way to customize your wedding reception. There are numerous options for feeding your guests, and many questions to answer before the day of the reception. Most couples opt for hiring a caterer rather than providing the food themselves, so here are some tips for picking the caterer who will give you the wedding day of your dreams.

After narrowing down your selection of caterers, it’s important to interview each one. I interviewed Hyland from Biscuits & Berries Catering in Golden. When I asked her if she had ever received bizarre requests, she answered, “We have definitely had some unique requests, which we always welcome.” An important question to ask your caterer is, “What menu would you recommend based on the type of reception we’re having and the time of year?” Hyland explained that Biscuits & Berries is unique in that it offers a wide selection of menus using the freshest ingredients available at the time of year. The chefs at Biscuits & Berries have many suggestions, but are willing to work with you to make the food for your special day exactly the way you want it. When it comes to your wedding food, don’t settle for anything less than what you’ve dreamed of.

Questions to Ask What type of food do you want at your reception? There are so many options today for wedding food. You can have food of many different cultures or you can mix two cultures to create a completely unique banquet for your guests. Try using traditional foods like chicken and rice to make unique dishes. If you like Mexican food, try chicken spiced with pep-pers and paprika rolled in a tortilla with rice and salsa. Give suggestions to your caterer and, if you want to, bring a family recipe that you want made and served at your reception.

Do you want to have a buffet or a sit-down dinner? Or perhaps you’d rather have servers offering hors d’oeuvres to your guests as they chat. Sit-down dinners can provide a nice atmosphere for the wedding reception by encouraging toasts and making sure everyone is eating their fill. They also add a touch of elegance to the reception. But buffets and hors d’oeuvres can lend an air of informality and comfort to a reception that might be decreased in a sit-down meal. With a buffet your guests can mingle and get to know one another.

By Jeanne Fischer

planning

Gone are the days of traditional white wedding cakes—now couples are choos-ing cakes full of color and whimsy. Photo courtesy of Azucar Bakery.

Picture Your

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Cater to Your Every Need

Non-traditional wedding cakes are all the rage this year, and they are a great way to reflect the personalities of the bride and groom. Photography by Jules Bianchi. Image provided by Ethnic Essence.

Cater to Your Every NeedD oes the idea of an overly traditional wedding make you cringe? Do you want to bring your own unique flair into the planning and day of your reception? Try custom-izing the your catering.

24...... Spring/Summer 200924...... Spring/Summer 2009

planning

Dream Weddings Without Breaking the Bank

www.everaftercolorado.com EverAfter ......25

Essence.com found the “Ultimate Bride on a Budget” from 2008. Her name is Tavon, and she planned what should have been a $25,000 wedding for $6,000. She not only jumped on sales, but made connections and reached out to her network—her wedding day makeup was a gift from a friend and the caterer was a friend of the groom and cooked and served the food for free. Tavon bought her dress secondhand and rented a fake cake with an edible layer at the bottom. She served her guests from a sheet cake. She bought her flowers from Costco and her invitations from Party City. Her bridal party helped her make her bouquet and the decorations for the reception (a fun bachelorette party idea, perhaps?). In the end, her wedding was truly a dream wedding, but also one she could afford.

Silk FlowersOther brides have suggested using silk flowers, especially for winter weddings. Not only are these often cheaper, but they keep forever and can be sold to another bride after the wedding or used to decorate at another event you may put on.

Do Your HomeworkThe biggest money-saving advice for any couple is to plan ahead. Discuss your goals for the wedding and reception far in advance, set goals, and resolve to stick to them. You and your fiancé need to sit down well in advance and answer questions like, “How much money are we willing to spend on a wedding? What aspects of the wedding are we willing to spend a little more money on and which are not as important to us?” The answers to these questions can help you save money as well as your sanity and the relationship.

W e know that it’s not really traditional to talk about budgeting and

weddings in the same sentence, but this year, money is becoming

a bigger factor in wedding planning than in the past. It may not

be easy to pull off your dream wedding for less, but with some

homework and a lot of determination, you can have a $25,000

wedding for a fourth of the price. Brides all over the United

States are pulling off this feat. Here are some tips from frugal

brides everywhere.

By Jeanne Fischer

What type of catering, cake and alcohol service is feasible with the number of guests you have? This is always an important questions to consider. You may want to think about focusing on one aspect of the reception more than the others. Perhaps you want to put energy and money into your beverage service and offer a full bar served throughout the entire reception, and the catering is not as important to you. Prioritizing like this is a good way to save money and make the wedding truly your own unique event.

Do your guests have allergies or preferences you must cater to? Consider your own and your guests’ allergies and preferences as you plan your menu. Should you avoid monosodium glutamate or food coloring in your dishes? Do you have vegetarian or vegan guests? These are all topics to bring up when you meet with your caterer.

Beverage Service SuggestionsOften, a full bar of standard alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages is the best option even for a non-traditional wedding. Trendy beverages may not please the majority of

planning

Buffets and hors d’oeuvres can lend an air of informality and comfort to a reception

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your guests. But there are some options for altering the serving of drinks that can make your reception not only different, but can also save you some money. Serve beverages in stages: offer beer, wine and soft drinks before dinner and mixed drinks after. And try using champagne only for toasts; that way, it is a tasty highlight of the reception. You also have choices in how the wine is served. Many receptions have a split bar, but you can serve guests well by having one bar with two bartenders, or you can have your caterer serve beverages with dinner.

Don’t hesitate to break tradition and have the unique wedding you’ve always dreamed of. Just one unique aspect, especially in the food or drinks at your reception, will keep your guests talking for weeks about how much they enjoyed your wedding. o

Delicate hors d’oeuvres add a subtle touch of sophistication.” Photo courtesy of Biscuits and Berries Catering Company.


“And she lived happily

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planning

Bridal Shows As you enter into the planning stages, take the time to visit bridal shows. There are tons of prizes and giveaways at these events. You and your sweetheart could walk away with a fully paid for honeymoon to Hawaii or free catering. Bridal Shows also offer couples the opportunity to compare prices and discover what they really like

Research OnlinePurchasing dresses, flowers, jewelry, etc., can best be done online. Often, you can buy bridesmaid dresses wholesale for a fraction of the cost of in-store prices. When buying something in a store, don’t be hesitant to negotiate. Many vendors will offer bargains based on quantity and some will try to top other vendor’s prices.

Tradition is often the biggest reason people spend more than they want to on a wedding. So in order to cut down your costs, you might have to do away with certain traditions and make your own. Don’t send engagement announcements

or save-the-date trinkets. Instead, send an email. Make a Facebook group. Most of your friends and family can get invites electronically, and for those few who can’t or don’t want to, you can send something by mail.

The wedding venue can often be the greatest cost a couple will face as they plan their wedding, but there are ways to avoid spending $15,000 on a ballroom. If you attend church, you may be able to use the building for both the ceremony and the reception. Most churches have a multi-function room in addition to a chapel and having the entire wedding in one venue can save a lot of money.

And the most important way to save money on your wedding is to use your network. Like Tavon, ask for wedding gifts that fulfill your wedding needs. Of course, make sure the people you ask to do your wedding are experienced. And if you’re particular about how a certain aspect of the wedding turns out, it might be worth paying to have it done the way you want. This goes back to setting your priorities for what’s important. o

We know that it’s not really traditional to talk about budgeting and weddings in the same sentence, but this year, money is becoming a bigger factor in wedding planning than in years past

advice

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Gifts for your Guests

By Caitlin Kelly

The right favors can put the finishing touch on your wedding day.

W ith everything that goes into planning a wedding—decisions about location, colors, flowers, music, guests, food and the all-important dress—choosing wedding favors is probably the last thing on any busy bride’s mind. Compared to important factors like the cake and food, favors may seem like a tiny, insignificant part of your wedding day that you may be tempted to forgo. However, a seemingly small gesture like handing out favors can help put the perfect finishing touch on your wedding day.

Why Favors? “I suggest brides give out favors because traditionally they provide your guests with an attractive memento of the day,” says the Boulderado Hotel’s Anna Mundale, who has worked with hundreds of brides in her seven years as Social

Catering Sales Manager. “Not only do favors have a souvenir quality,” explains Anna, “but they add a punch of color and personality to the dining table while serving as a reflection of the bride and groom’s personal interests and style.” Favors are a great way to liven up simple place settings and are a great way to carry out the wedding’s theme down to the very last detail.

What Should i Choose? Anna has seen a wide variety of favors, ranging from traditional to trendy. “Most commonly, couples choose edible favors, such as baked goods or candies emblazoned with their names and the date of the wedding.” Websites such as AmericanBridal.com offer personalized edible favors such as chocolates, mint boxes and cookies. Anna also


advice

Wedding Favor WebsitesCheck out these great websites

for wedding favor ideas:

Beau-coup.comA wide variety of wedding favors, including green favors, personalized favors and edible favors.

BotanicalPaperWorks.comPlantable favors and invitations that bloom into beautiful flowers.

PlantaMemory.comWhere tree seedlings and seed boxes are turned into attractive favors.Worldlyweddings.comOffers Ethnic-inspired wedding gifts and favors.Americanbridal.comOffers a wide variety of unique and personalized wedding favors

notes that eco-friendly favors such as flower seed packets, soy candles and potted plants have become more popular in recent years (for more “green” favors, check out Beau-coup.com).

For smaller weddings, you may even consider handmade wedding favors. Making small gifts for your guests by hand shows how much their presence means to you. “Recently, I had a bride knit red scarves for all of the women at the wedding,” Anna says. “The project was daunting, but she loved that in all of her wedding photos, the gals were wearing her special creation.” The thought of hand-making all of the wedding favors by hand may seem overwhelming for some brides, but the end result is well worth the hard work.

How much Should i Spend? For most couples concerned about staying within their budget, this is the key question when it comes to favors. If you are planning on keeping favors on the table, make sure they are of good quality and high sentimental value. “Don’t waste money on trinkets your guests will almost certainly throw away, or leave at the table setting,” advises Anna. She points out that providing beautiful favors can actually help trim your budget in the long run: “favors can save you money by enhancing the décor at the table and in turn, save you money on flowers and other accessories.”

In weddings, as in life, it’s the little things that make the most impact. Providing favors for your guests on your wedding day will make them feel appreciated and will help them remember your special day for years to come. o

Eco-friendly favors have become much more popular in recent years

Let love bloom with these personalized seed packets from Beau-Coup.com.

Wedding Resource Directory

Beauty & SpaChanging Faces Laser and Med Spa735 S. Xenon Ct. 101, Lakewood 303.937.7777 • changingfaces.us We do everything from laser hair removal to teeth whitening. Call us about our wedding party specials.

Rebecca J. StudioDenver/Parker • 303.805.4111 rebeccajsalon.com Our goal is to pamper you and bring out your individual, natural beauty. We come to you!

Salon Fabu6828 S. Dallas Way, Greenwood Vlg. 303.799.6565 • salonfabu.com Here, you are encouraged to become the most fabu-lous person you can be! We offer bride and groom packages.

Sweet Cheeks Boutique5910 S. University Blvd. B-3, Greenwood Vlg. 720.283.4544 • sweetcheeksboutique.net We specialize in providing the latest skin care and waxing treatments and highest quality product lines.

Bridal Gowns & TuxedosBella Bridesmaid300 Josephine St. 120, Denver 303.377.2025 • bellabridesmaid.com This boutique is the premier place for stylish, wearable and modern bridesmaids’ dresses.

Celestial Bride8262 S. University Blvd. 135, Centennial 720.529.2000 • celestialbride.net Celestial Bride is the pioneer of modern and modest gowns in the greater Denver area.

Catering & CakesAzucar Sweet Shop & Bakery11 W. Hampden Ave, Englewood 720.283.3294 • azucarbakery.com We can customize your cake in any style; we even cater to specific dietary requirements, from diabetic to vegan cakes.

Cake Crumbs2216 Kearney St, Denver 303.861.4912 • cake-crumbs.com We are Denver’s freshest cake shop and bakery. Come try our great tasting and beautiful cakes and treats.

Katherine’s French Bakery ‎2832 S. Havana St. Aa, Aurora 303.695.5000 728 S. University Blvd, Denver 303.282.5888 • katherines.org We provide complete catering services and European-inspired desserts and will customize our menus.

Kelli’s Kitchen15473-A E. Hampden Ave, Aurora 720.870.7768 • kelliskitchen.com We will be happy to customize a menu especially for your reception or event.

Water 2 Wine8130 S. Univ. Blvd. 110, Centennial 720.489.9463 • water2wine.com Enjoy the ultimate world-class wine experience with us. All of our wines are fermented on site and are perfect for your special day.

Ceremony & Reception VenuesAdams County Regional Park9755 Henderson Rd, Brighton 303.637.8000 • co.adams.co.us We have space available for indoor and outdoor weddings and receptions with beautiful and unique settings.

The Broadmoor Hotel1 Lake Ave, Colo. Springs 719.634.7711 • broadmoor.com Combine the intimacy of a home wedding with a destination so majestic that is takes your breath away. The Broadmoor’s experienced staff will make sure your wedding day is unforgettable..

The Crystal Rose Event Center8351 Southpark Ln, Littleton 303.730.4643 636 Lookout Mountain Rd, Golden 303.526.7530 9755 E. Hampden Ave, Denver 303.751.9443 Crystal-Rose.com Discover fine dining, excellent facilities and personal attention from our expert catering staff for your wedding day.

Holiday Inn14707 W. Colfax Ave 262, Lakewood 303.279.7611 • holiday-inn.com The Holiday Inn Denver West Village will help make your grand affair an unforgettable event filled with unrivaled elegance, legendary service and extraordinary cuisine.

FlowersGreenwood Floral4668 S. Yosemite St, Englewood 303.741.1537 • greenwoodfloral.com We’ve done all sizes of weddings for over 30 years, and we specialize in small weddings.

Mossholder’s Floral5461 W. 64th Ave, Arvada 303.940.6914 We offer the freshest, highest quality flowers and creative designs. We will go beyond your expectations.

Swank Stems—Fine Floral FashionDenver Area 720.982.9639 *swankstems.com Swank Stems is the creative solution for exquisite, personalize designs to meet your every need.

Gift & RegistryHome Theater CompanyCentennial 877.212.6894 hometheaterco.com Make watching TV more enjoyable with custom home theater installation services.

Healthy LifestyleMetabolic Research CenterSix CO Locations 1-888-707-LOSE emetabolic.com If you are a bride who would like to reach your goal weight and feel fabulous in the dress of your dreams, Metabolic Research Center is the place for you. We provide a holistic approach to healthy and effective weight loss by focusing on helping you change your lifestyle for long term success.

Honeymoon & Travel ServicesContinuum TravelPO Box 4235, Englewood 888.878.8078 • continuumtravelsite.com We specialize in beach destinations which also includes all-inclusives and cruises

Dreamcatcher Travel 8200 S. Quebec St. A-5, Centennial 303.721.6677 • dreamcatchertravel.com We will customize your honeymoon to fit your dreams. Check out our Online Honeymoon Bridal Registry!


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Romantic Riversong Bed and Breakfast Inn 1766 Lower Broadview Rd, Estes Park 970.586.3223 • romanticriversong.com

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Invitations & StationaryHeart Pen CalligraphyRoni Kantor 303.988.4444 [email protected] heartpencalligraphy.com

xpedx Paper Store8262 S. Univ. Blvd. 150, Centennial 303.221.0800 5290 Vance St, Arvada 303.940.6160 1960 32nd St, Boulder 303.786.8703 2443 N. Union Blvd, Colo. Springs 719.577.4260 106 S. Sante Fe Dr, Denver 303.777.6688 xpedxstores.com

Whether you’re a print shop or party planner, office manager or consumer, xpedx Stores Division is the nation’s leading supplier of quality paper, packaging supplies, office products, party goods and wedding supplies.

JewelryDonna K. [email protected] Donna K Designs are one-of-a kind original jewelry creations, using a variety of gemstones, Swarovski crystals, natural pearls, turquoise and sterling silver.

OfficiantsA Bargain MinisterDenver 303.321.6607 • [email protected] drgarymichael.com/weddings Dr. Gary Michael, an ordained minister, helps you create a unique ceremony that expresses your values and taste in English or Spanish, in the mood and manner you desire.

PhotographyBaldwin Photography 9473 S. Sherrelwood Ln, Highlnds Rnch 303.902.2313 • baldwinphotographydenver.com Brad Baldwin offers wedding and special event services and takes family portraits and senior portraits.

Bill Nielsen PhotographyThornton 303.885.6604 • billnielsenphoto.com [email protected] Bill Nielsen Photography takes great care in capturing all of the special moments of your wedding day.

Chris Sharber [email protected] & julie@ sharberphoto.com (303) 618-7618 Our passion for wedding photography lies in capturing moments of intimacy, passion, and romance, and transforming them in to works of art—preserving them forever.

Lightbox ImagesP.O. Box 271169, Littleton 303.994.5662 • lightboximages.com A professional photojournalist with over 25 years of experience, Thomas Cooper’s eye for composition and his drive to capture the whole story has landed his work in National Geographic and The New York Times.

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D E S I G N S


Documents

Ever After Spring 2009