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Wedding Planner

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Page 1: Wedding Planner
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�    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

A Special Place...

Your Wedding DayA special time for the two of you...a time of love and

happiness shared with family and friends. We at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth realize the importance of this

very special day, and wish to share in your happiness and joy.

Our custom wedding celebrations are tailored to meet your specific needs, and will certainly

please your family and friends. Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth is happy to assist you in planning the first

day of the rest of your lives and by adding special memories to a lifetime of love.

���� ������������ ��� ������� ���� ��� � ����������������

W E D D I N G R E C E P T I O N S AT

Picture Perfect

Wedding Cakes and

SpecialMenus!

The perfect room for

Weddings, RehearsalDinners & Showers!

3947031-02

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booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    �

•wedding planning timeline  _________________ 4

wedding budget __________________________ 7

responsibilities of the wedding party ________ 11

preparing for the dance floor _______________ 14

wedding day transportation ________________ �0

guidance on the bridal ‘do  ________________ �6

Finance tips for those about to marry ________ �0

popular honeymoon destinations  ___________ ��

trends in wedding cakes ___________________ ��

wedding favors  __________________________ �4

Where the magic begins…

989.781.6789www.applemountain.com | 4519 N. River Road | Freeland, MI 48623

Offering a backdrop to all your wedding celebrations...Specializing in wedding ceremonies, receptions, bridal showers and rehearsal dinners...our goal is to always make your event perfect!

Whether yourwedding is small or large, modest or grand, the Event Coordinators at Apple Mountain will work with you to create the perfect event to meet your budget and fulfi ll your dreams.

Apple Mountain offers a variety of services and amenities including -• Grand Ballroom• Atrium • Resort Settings• Custom menus• Specialty linens• Golf packages

395133502

It’s your special day - you deserve the best!

3951335-02

is a publication of booth mid-michigan; comprised of:the Flint Journal • the bay city times • the Saginaw news

this publication is distributed at bridal shows in the  booth mid-michigan area, and is also available  

at each newspaper location.

Advertising sAles: the Flint Journal  (810) 766-6�00the Saginaw news (989) 894-966�the bay city times (989) 894-966�

  graphic design  •  eileen ruhlig  publisher   •  matt Sharp

PhotogrAPhy:the photographs used in this publication  

were graciously submitted by:dirla Studio: bay city, mi

enjoy the View photography: clio, miheidi mcgrandy: Saginaw, mi

Jeremy ransom: Simcoe, ontarioKmg photography: canton, mi

la’s photography: grand blanc, miStudio 7 photography: bay city, mi

•Inside

coVer photo courteSy oF:

Enjoy thE viEw PhotograPhybeth Severn • 989-7�7-4099

wedding PlAnner 2011

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4    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

P

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 -- whether you’re starting from scratch, upgrading, expanding or replacing. turn a whole bunch of mis-matched mine and yours into a lifetime of ours.

“when it comes to registering, relax, take your time and have fun,” recommends audrey Stavish, a bridal and gift registry expert at bed bath & beyond. “most brides update their registries online and go into the stores many times. there aren’t any rules that you must follow. choose items that are right for you and your soon-to-be. go through the registry process together and have fun!”

here are some additional tips to make wedding planning a breeze:

plan ahead: Start a bridal registry as soon as you say “yes.” that way guests will have lots of options for engagement gifts and show-ers. periodically update your registry by adding more products if you need to, even after the wedding. be kind to procrastinators.

do the math: experts advise registering for �-� items times the number of guests you plan to have. close friends and family will rely on your registry for special events leading up to the wedding -- such as engagement parties, bridal showers, and holidays! 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.”

dream big: register for gifts in a range of prices and categories. this will give guests and group givers lots of options to choose from.

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/sim-ple or simple/simple/bold.

Visit a Store: it’s in your best interest to visit a store and schedule an appointment with an expert consultant who can help you with your gift selections and share great tips like “the rule of three,” 

now that YoU’RE

lanning timelineP

Engaged... PHOTO: LA’S PHOTOGRAPHY•

P

what cookware you will need to prepare your favorite dish, what knife to use when and much more. when making your selections, it’s important to touch the towels, heft the flatware, see everything in person!

c’mon back: most couples don’t make all their selections in a single spree. plan on making multiple visits.

once you’ve set up your registry, take advantage of bed bath & beyond’s bridal toolkit®, the complimentary wedding planning tools available at bedbathandbeyond.com, including your own personal wedding web site, budgeter, task manager, guest list man-ager, gift tracker and even a seating arranger. this way, all of your information can be stored in one convenient place.

— Metro Newspaper Service

One Year BefOre the Weddingbuy a wedding planner or organizer to help keep you on 

track for everything that needs to be done regarding the wed-ding, advises “bride’s book of etiquette,” (a perigee book, �00�). a good planner contains checklists, pockets for receipts, and space for taking notes. if you’re going to hire a wedding consultant, this is the time to do it.

talk with your fiance and both sets of parents about the wedding, deciding on budget, dates, sites and participants, advises “bride’s.”

this is also the time to book your wedding and reception venues and meet with the minister who will be performing the ceremony, according to lisa helmanis in “get married with-out a hitch (perigee books, �007). meeting with the minister is important because in some religions, you may be required to attend pre-wedding counseling or get special permissions if it’s an interfaith marriage.

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booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    �

••

Six WeekSpick up the rings, making sure any engraving has been done 

and that all spelling is correct, says “bride’s.”other tasks for this time period include planning your brides-

maids’ party, getting the programs printed and scheduling your final dress fitting, advises “bride’s.”

if you’re having friends or family do readings at the ceremony, make copies of the readings so they’ll have time to practice.

tWO WeekSat least two weeks before, get your marriage license and con-

firm honeymoon reservations, says “bride’s.”also break in the shoes you’ll be wearing for the wedding. 

“Scuff the soles to avoid slipping,” bride’s advises.

One Weekaccording to bride’s, this is the time to pack for your honey-

moon, provide the caterer with the final guest count and pick up your dress.

if all this seems overwhelming, a solution is to hire a wedding planner, helmanis said. but if you are doing it yourself, be sure to have a clear understanding of what’s involved and when it needs to be done. then divide up the work.

 “many wedding stress complaints come from partners who feel they are doing all the work themselves, so divide the respon-sibilities up early in the planning,” she said.

while a lot of planning goes into a wedding, it’s worth it when you see it all come together and enjoy the wedding day of your dreams.

•ten MOnthSnow is the time to book the photographer/videographer and 

the band, and to order your wedding cake.“Suppliers who can only be booked for one job a day need to 

be booked up first,” helmanis said.a good way to find these vendors is to ask friends who’ve 

recently gotten married, according to “bride’s.” also, when you’re attending various events, pay attention to who catered it and who the musicians are.

eight MOnthSchoose your attendants and enlist their help in deciding 

on their dresses, suits and for advice on your wedding gown, helmanis said.

 “it can take at least four months for a made-to-measure dress to be created, and even some off-the-rack dresses need to be ordered from abroad,” she said.

begin to confirm things with your vendors and plan your flowers, helmanis said. also decide which bridal registries you’ll be signing up for because these need to be in place before you mail your invitations.

Seven MOnthSthe list of things to do at this time include planning your 

ceremony and ordering your invitations and other printed items, such as the order of the ceremony, helmanis said. when ordering invitations, be sure to order at least �� extras to allow for those you’ve smudged or for last-minute invitees.

 “it might seem wasteful, but you will spend a lot more if you have to re-order,” she said.

Six MOnthSbook any rented formal wear for your wedding party, helma-

nis said. this is also a good time to send out the “save the date” 

cards, especially if your wedding is planned for a summer week-end, she said.

don’t get so caught up in the other details that you forget the honeymoon. Six months before the wedding is the time to research destinations through magazines, books and the inter-net, says “bride’s.” once you’ve decided on a location, then visit a travel agent to make your arrangements.

fOur MOnthSif you’re going to be changing your name, now is the time 

to change your passport, driver’s license, insurance or any other documents or any places that will need your married name such as your insurance company or your doctor, helmanis said.

“this will give you plenty of time to make sure the name on your passport matches the one on your ticket,” she said. “check if you need any immunizations or visas for your honey-moon.”

tWO tO three MOnthSSend out the invitations anywhere from six to eight weeks 

ahead of the event. “it is customary to send out the invitations at least six weeks 

before the wedding, but do it as soon as you feel comfortable,” helmanis said. “you can then start making a list of acceptances to finalize the catering arrangements.”

take care of additional details such as shopping for your honey-moon clothes, having your wedding portrait taken and, if required, arranging for the medical exam and blood tests, says “bride’s.”

Cherished CelebrationsEvent Decorating & Party Rentals

Table Linens – Skirting – Chair Covers – BackdropsChina – Goblets & Flatware – Stainless Steel Chaffer Pans

Custom Centerpieces – Candy Buffet Glassware Card Boxes – Lighting – Unique Props – And Much More

We specialize in making yourWedding Dreams come true!

PH 810.687.1529 FAX 810.687.220311395 N. Saginaw Road, Suite 3, Clio, MI 48420

www.cherished-celebrations.com 3947

026-

01

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6    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

Personalized ServiceBridal • Bridesmaids • Shoes • Plus Sizes • Flowergirl DressesCrinolines • Cake Tops • Gifts • Tuxedo Rentals • Invitations

Accessories • Mother’s Gowns • Special OccasionAlterations Available

3951399-02

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booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    7

rehearsal dinner .............................................. $ _____________  

bride’s wear:

dress, slip, foundation garments .................... $ _____________

Shoes and hosiery .......................................... $ _____________

tuxedo ............................................................. $ _____________

Stationery:

invitations ...................................................... $ _____________

announcements ............................................. $ _____________

thank you cards ............................................ $ _____________

new address cards .......................................... $ _____________

reception napkins ............................................. $ _____________

postage ............................................................. $ _____________

other ............................................................... $ _____________

Flowers and candles ......................................... $ _____________

wedding:

the ceremony site .......................................... $ _____________

bouquets: bride & attendants ........................ $ _____________

corsages: mothers, honored guests ................ $ _____________

boutonnieres: groom, groomsmen, fathers .... $ _____________

honored guests - other ................................. $ _____________

reception:

Food .............................................................. $ _____________

drink ............................................................. $ _____________

other ............................................................. $ _____________

wedding cake................................................. $ _____________

table decorations ........................................... $ _____________

buffet decorations .......................................... $ _____________

cake table decorations ................................... $ _____________

music:

wedding soloist, organist ............................... $ _____________

reception ...................................................... $ _____________

photography/Videography:

engagement portrait ...................................... $ _____________

wedding portrait ............................................ $ _____________

candid photos ............................................... $ _____________

prints for parents, relatives, wedding party ...... $ _____________

recordings of the ceremony ........................... $ _____________

bridal consultant ............................................... $ _____________

marriage license ................................................ $ _____________

officiant ........................................................... $ _____________

gifts:

bridesmaids ................................................... $ _____________

groomsmen ................................................... $ _____________

other ............................................................. $ _____________

engagement and wedding rings ........................ $ _____________

transportation .................................................. $ _____________

honeymoon ..................................................... $ _____________

  total:  $ _____________

bE sURE to stick to a

Destination Weddingsand Romantic Honeymoons

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL

CERTIFIED SPECIALIST

989.781.6026 OR989.876.8898

YOURCRUISEONLINE.COM

PHOTO: DIRLA STUDIO

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8    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

Bridal gownwoRkshEEt

bRidal attiREgown Style/name __________________________________

dress Size & color __________________________________

headpiece/Veil _____________________________________

Store name ________________________________________

address ____________________________________________

phone _____________________________________________

consultant’s name __________________________________

refund policy _______________________________________

Fitting dates  _______________________________________

Final pick-up date    _________________________________

  deposit amount ___________

  balance due ___________

  total cost ___________

accEssoRiEsShoes ______________________________________________

color & Size _______________________________________

expected arrival  ____________________________________

Store name ________________________________________

address ____________________________________________

cost _______________________________________________

GlovEscolor & Size _______________________________________

expected arrival  ____________________________________

Store name ________________________________________

address ____________________________________________

JEwElRYnecklace ___________________________________________

earrings  ___________________________________________

hair accessories _____________________________________

other  _____________________________________________

linGERiESlip  _______________________________________________

hosiery ____________________________________________

bra/bustier _________________________________________

garter _____________________________________________

PHOTO: LA’S PHOTOGRAPHY

Gown

Bay Valley Resort & Conference Center2470 Old Bridge Rd. * Bay City, MI

888-241-4653www.bayvalley.com

Plan your Dream Weddingat Bay Valley Resort

*Convenient Location, I-75 at Exit 160*Elegant Ballroom for up to 350 Guests

*Stylish Cocktail Reception Area*Outstanding Menu Selections at Affordable Pricing

*Full Service Decor Packages*Complimentary Honeymoon Suite

*Discounted Hotel Rooms*Championship Golf Course

For more information visit us at BayValley.com

Elegant Moments will beRemembered for a Lifetime

at Bay Valley ResortWeddings * Showers * Rehearsal Dinners

Social Events of all Kinds

3951269-02

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•For most brides-to-be, the choice of a dress is among the 

first and most important decisions in planning a wedding. with thousands of choices in every price range, finding the perfect wedding dress can be a difficult and time-consuming process. but by making some decisions before setting foot in a store, the search will be both easier and a whole lot more enjoyable.

firSt thingS firStStart by knowing your limits. to avoid disappointment down 

the line, determine the maximum amount that you can spend on a dress -- and don’t forget to include all the little extras, such as undergarments, shoes, jewelry, veil, and/or hair ornaments. next, take an inventory of your personal style. if you know that you’re not comfortable in strapless or sleeveless dresses, for example, you can immediately eliminate these options. the trick is to rule out a few style options before hitting the magazines or stores and then be open to all other options.

firM Yet flexiBlethere will be no shortage of opinions -- from mothers, sisters, 

friends, and store personnel -- about your choice of a wedding dress, but the decision, ultimately, is the bride’s alone. a great strategy is to be open to suggestions about dresses to try on, but reserve the right to choose the look that feels right to you. with so many potential options, you might want to consider bringing 

along a camera and taking photos of yourself in the dresses that could be “contenders.”

gO fOr a flattering fitremember: your goal is to find a dress that flatters your body 

and expresses your personal style -- not to fit into a particular size. if you look ghostly in white, feel free to choose a creamier shade or a dress that has decorative accents of a different color near your neck, shoulders and face. Similarly, there’s no rule that a wedding dress has to be floor-length. if you’re planning a daytime or more casual wedding, you might want to consider a tea-length dress (one that falls a few inches above the ankle) or go even shorter.

COMfOrt iS keYStyle and fit may be the two most important factors in choos-

ing a wedding dress, but comfort should be a close third. ask yourself if you will be comfortable in a particular dress given the setting in which your wedding will take place. For instance, if you’ve always dreamed of an outdoor wedding, you may want forego a dress with a long, trailing train that could trip you up on your walk to or down the aisle. even if you’re planning an indoor event, having a dress and shoes that are as comfortable as they are beautiful will greatly increase your odds of enjoying your special day to the fullest. 

choosinG YoUR

PHOTO: PHOTOGRAPHY bY HeIDI

•3948750-01

Creating Exciting Transformations

GET INSPIRED.SEE YOUR STYLIST.

REDKEN.COM

2 locations to serve you

www.imaginesalononline.com

Makeover & Makeup Lesson • Texture & Straightening Services • Gift Certifi cates • Manicures/Pedicures/Shellac • Color Parties

• Bridal Department • Blow-Out Boot Camps • SPIN TO WIN CONTEST!

8185 Holly Road • Grand Blanc • 810.606.82343093 S. Linden Rd. Flint • 810.407.6561

Custom Bridal Packagesavailable for the Bride, Groom

and Mothers of the Bride. Packages also available for

your Bridal Party.

CALL NOW AND SCHEDULE ANAPPOINTMENT WITH OUR BRIDAL

CONSULTANT AND RECIEVEA FREE BRIDAL PARTY GIFT.

Gown

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10    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

maid of Honorname  _______________________________________________

Style of dress  _________________________________________

color ________________________________________________

Size _________________________________________________

Shoes ________________________________________________

date of fitting  ________________________________________

notes  _______________________________________________

Bridesmaidname  _______________________________________________

Style of dress  _________________________________________

color ________________________________________________

Size _________________________________________________

Shoes ________________________________________________

date of fitting  ________________________________________

notes  _______________________________________________

Bridesmaidname  _______________________________________________

Style of dress  _________________________________________

color ________________________________________________

Size _________________________________________________

Shoes ________________________________________________

date of fitting  ________________________________________

notes  _______________________________________________

Bridesmaidname  _______________________________________________

Style of dress  _________________________________________

color ________________________________________________

Size _________________________________________________

Shoes ________________________________________________

date of fitting  ________________________________________

notes  _______________________________________________

and hER

thE •Bride• •Girls

PHOTO: jeRemY RAnSOm

motHer of tHe Bridename  _______________________________________________

Style of dress  _________________________________________

color ________________________________________________

Size _________________________________________________

Shoes ________________________________________________

date of fitting  ________________________________________

notes  _______________________________________________

motHer of tHe groomname  _______________________________________________

Style of dress  _________________________________________

color ________________________________________________

Size _________________________________________________

Shoes ________________________________________________

date of fitting  ________________________________________

notes  _______________________________________________

flower girlname  _______________________________________________

Style of dress  _________________________________________

color ________________________________________________

Size _________________________________________________

Shoes ________________________________________________

date of fitting  ________________________________________

notes  _______________________________________________

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booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    11

••as weddings have become less regimented and more ex-

pensive, the traditional bridal party is often pared down to a best man and a bridesmaid or two. their roles, however, have remained constant through the years.

whether the wedding you’ve got in mind is large or small, formal or casual, conventional or original, it’s helpful to have a sense of the roles that bridal party members have played through the years.

• maid of honor: usually the closest friend of the bride and sometimes a relative. a married, divorced, widowed, or older woman might be called the matron of honor. She assists with the details of the wedding plans, like shopping for the bridal gown, addressing invitations and choosing flowers. She arranges the bridal shower in conjunction with the bride’s family, is in charge of coordinating the bridesmaids and organizing fittings, and typically signs the couple’s certificate of marriage or wedding license as a legal witness. at the reception, she should stand im-mediately after the groom in the receiving line.

• best man: commonly the groom’s best friend, relative or not, the best man is in charge of instructing the ushers and coordinating the groom’s transportation to the ceremony. he usually holds the rings until the ceremony and will also sign the marriage certificate as a legal witness. at the reception, he holds a place of honor, escorting the maid of honor in the receiving line and in all other wedding party activities. he’s also the toast-master, offering the first toast to the couple.

• bridesmaids and ushers: typically friends or relatives of the bride, bridesmaids may be asked to coordinate special details during the ceremony preparations or at the reception, and assist the bride and the maid of honor. ushers (sometimes also known as groomsmen) should be prepared for an early arrival at the ceremony to escort female guests to their seats. during the cere-mony, they will escort the bridesmaids down the aisle. they may also be asked to coordinate the guests’ trip from the ceremony to the reception as well as assist the groom and the best man.

• Flower girl and ring bearer: the flower girl carries a basket of flower petals to sprinkle down the aisle, or flowers to be passed out to the women seated near the aisle. the ring bearer may either escort the flower girl down the aisle, or follow her, with the rings on a pillow.

• Father of the bride: his most conspicuous duty is giving away the bride at the ceremony. he might also fulfill numerous rolls, such as coordinating transportation, dancing and toast-ing. traditionally, he and the mother of the bride have paid for the wedding and reception but today it is common for expenses to be shared by both families along with the bride and groom themselves. 

REsponsibilitiEs of thE

•partyedding

PHOTO: KmG PHOTOGRAPHY

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1�    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan••GroomfindinG thE RiGht waRdRobE

foR YoUR

•all eyes are typically on the bride during a wedding. but that 

doesn’t mean the groom should be a shrinking violet. while the bridal gown may garner the “oohs” and “aahs,” what the groom wears on his wedding day is quite important as well.

in many ceremonies, the groom spends several minutes standing beside the alter awaiting his bride-to-be. before the first notes of “here comes the bride” are played, all eyes will be on him as he anxiously awaits the start of the ceremony. as such, it is essential that the groom look well polished and is dressed in accordance to the tone and scope of the wedding.

because most weddings are formal occasions, grooms often choose to wear a tuxedo or high-end suit. a well-fitted tuxedo combined with a formal shirt, tie and vest is the classic wed-ding ensemble. generally the tuxedo jacket is single-breasted with three buttons and satin trim. this style is universally flat-tering to most men’s frames.

accessorizing the tuxedo can mean different things. Some choose to wear a vest while others opt for a cummerbund. others add suspenders. these accessories, including the tie or bow tie and the vest, can be all black like the tuxedo or can be coordinated with the colors of the wedding party. For ex-ample, if the bridesmaids are wearing butter yellow gowns, the groomsmen can wear yellow accessories. however, to set them-selves apart from the groomsmen and ushers, grooms tend to go with the classic black and white and forego colors. on some occasions, grooms may choose to wear a white tuxedo.

a well-groomed groom is also an important wedding day must. he should be well-shaven and have recently had a hair-cut. if he has facial hair, it should be trimmed and neat.

because he will be photographed all day long, a groom can choose to take some cues from his soon-to-be-spouse. he may indulge in a manicure to ensure nails and cuticles are neat. a dusting of translucent facial powder can tame shiny skin in photos. Some couples opt for teeth whitening prior to the wedding to ensure a sparkling smile.

when dressing the rest of the men in a wedding, they should take their cues from the groom, but not be carbon-copies of him. Fathers of the bride and groom can set themselves apart with a pocket square or a specially colored boutonniere.

the exception to a tuxedo or a suit would be for a casual wedding, particularly one held at the beach or in a park. then the groom can wear what will coordinate for the occasion, such as a dress shirt and slacks, or even sandals and shorts for the ultra-casual wedding.

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booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    1�

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PHOTO: KmG PHOTOGRAPHY

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14    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

by LeAnne ITALIeAssociated Press Writer

looking silly -- or worse -- during the first dance as a married couple rates way up there on the scale of wedding stress for grooms who are terrified of anything fancier than the high school prom sway.

“it’s not emily post’s dance anymore,” said crista tharp, a wedding planner in Kokomo, ind. “Some are doing rap, hip-hop, break dancing in little snippets. most grooms would probably nix the dance, but they’re not given that option.”

motivated by television’s “dancing with the Stars” and wacky wedding dance youtube vid-eos, more couples are building fancy footwork into their big-day budgets, turning up the pressure on members of the wedding party with two left feet.

For those who can’t dance -- but will be singled out by cameras and watching guests -- setting a clear goal is a good place to begin, dance instructors suggest. are you merely looking to survive with a few basic steps, or are you going all-in with dance sequences put together with help from an instructor or a wed-ding choreographer?

groom-to-be Jerry Karran, �8, a video editor in new york city, decided on regular lessons at a dance studio ahead of his wedding in July with 400 invited guests. he tried watching instructional videos online, but they left him confused.

“i’m very nervous,” he said. “i’m not nervous about anything else con-cerning the wedding but that. i can’t dance, like, at all. everybody’s looking at you. i don’t want to look stupid messing up, or stepping on her toes or something.”

dance lessons helped calm Jeremy gorelick, �0, when he got married in april at Johns hopkins university, 

pREpaRinG foR thE

where he met his wife. he has always enjoyed dancing in clubs, but slow dancing was “the worry of the wedding for both of us.”

they took lessons together, but he often practiced on his own with a broom. that, gore-lick said, was a misstep because it wasn’t at all like leading his bride on the dance floor.

“a broom will do whatever you do, so it was actually an exercise in futility and probably did more damage,” said gorelick, of new york 

city and white Sulphur 

•AP PHOTO: PeTeR HOLDen(Photos at left) Michael Drazin and Shelley Kapitulik take a dance lesson in preparation for their wedding at the Arthur Murray Dance Studios in Greenwich, Conn.

••dancefloor

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booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    1�

Springs, n.y.Start taking lessons well in advance of the big day to make your 

movements more instinctive and less dependent on shaky, short-term memory, instructors recommend. beginning at least six months ahead of a wedding is ideal, but six weeks would suffice, so long as at least four lessons are involved.

Start with group lessons, many suggest, to get comfortable on a dance floor and boost confidence. then take private instruction to work on a specific routine or dance.

Jackie horner, who was gorelick’s instructor, often teaches whole wedding parties how to dance. while women, too, can be dance-challenged, men are often more nervous because they must also learn how to lead, she said.

“i say to them, dancing is just walking to music,” horner said. “i have them walk around the room for me to just feel the music a little bit, because there are men who do not have any rhythm at all. usually it’s a little easier than they thought.”

gorelick said beginners should advocate for a short song. he and his wife chose “the way i am” by ingrid michaelson after their instructor steered them away from a longer tune, “based on the fact that i seemed so tense. She didn’t want me to be out there for an eternity, which is sort of what it felt like.”

James Joseph, who wrote the book “every man’s Survival guide to ballroom dancing” (bluechip, �010), said taking lessons is fine if couples have the time, money and inclination. For those in dance-floor survival mode, try embellishing the basic side step with a simple change of footwork, a slow rotation or some underarm turns.

“if anyone asks, tell them it’s a foxtrot,” he said.change steps when the music changes, from verse to chorus, for 

instance, to avoid getting lost. making four or five changes, with a dip in the middle and at the end, can look more difficult than it 

really is.working with a choreographer, Joseph said, may be more trouble 

than it’s worth.“if you work with a teacher, there’s a temptation to add chore-

ography that you might not be able to handle,” he said.“don’t get in over your head.”practicing in wedding clothes, including shoes, also helps lessen 

anxiety, said Joseph, a former two-left-footer who lives in Jackson hole, wyo. Videotape a practice session to see what needs work -- and practice, practice, practice.

grooms aren’t the only front-and-center wedding participants who may be jittery about big dances.

in �006, at age 6�, bawdy tV personality Jerry Springer brought tears to the set of “dancing with the Stars” with an on-air kiss for his daughter Katie after a waltz he learned so he could dance at her wedding that december.

“i’ve never really danced,” Springer, now 66, said in an interview. “So the night of the wedding, it’s time for the big father-daughter dance. in the middle of it, Katie looks up at me and says, ‘dad, nobody can see our feet.’ they were covered by her big gown. my advice to dads unsure if they can dance for their daughter’s wed-ding is to make sure they have a big gown. then you can get by doing anything.”

Shelley Kapitulik, �9, and her fiance, michael drazin, �7, both of greenwich, conn., hope to do more than just get by when they dance to the michael buble cover of James taylor’s “how Sweet it is (to be loved by you)” at their June reception. they plan a swing dance, and took lessons to get a nervous drazin over the hump.

“the more we dance and i make mistakes, we figure out how to just keep going, which has decreased the anxiety level,” he said.

2

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16    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

• ••Some couples want to celebrate their weddings in traditional 

fashion. others want everything to be unique, new and exciting. today’s weddings are largely planned, financed and executed 

entirely by the couple getting married. therefore, it is up to them how to celebrate their special day.

here’s a look at some of the traditional wedding elements and how they can be shaken up for a different spin.

traditional: Father walks the bride down the aisle.alternative: a son, daughter, friend, or even both parents walk 

the bride down the aisle. She can also traverse the white carpet solo, if desired. perhaps the groom meets the bride halfway and they walk the rest of the aisle together.

traditional: “the wedding march (here comes the bride)” plays when the bride enters.

alternative: any favorite classical or modern song is played when the bride enters, as long as it is approved by the venue where the ceremony is taking place.

traditional: Something old, something new, something bor-rowed, something blue.

alternative: wear all new items, all antique items. borrow all of your wedding day apparel -- it’s the bride’s choice.

traditional: mother-Son, Father-daughter dances at the recep-tion.

alternative: welcome everyone present to dance with a special member of their family so all eyes are not on the bride and groom, who may be self-conscious about dancing with their parents. these dances also can be skipped.

tRaditional and non-tRaditional

waYs to

YoUR wEddinG

traditional: bouquet toss for the bride and garter toss for the groom.

alternative: toss beads or treats in the style of mardi gras to all of the guests, so it’s not only about single men and women.

traditional: a three-tiered wedding cake all in white.alternative: choose cupcakes, a festively colored cake that 

matches the wedding theme or another desired dessert.

traditional: reception at a catering hall or hotel.alternative: reception at an alternative site, such as an aquarium, 

zoo or museum.

once a couple thinks about what is important at their wedding, they can cater the event toward their personal interests. tradition can be followed or they can do something completely unique.

C••

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Page 17: Wedding Planner

booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    17••VideographerhiRinG

YoUR

• do you have sample videos i can see?• how long have you been in business?• what packages do you offer?•  do you use professional quality equipment, accessories and supplies?• how many cameras do you use?•  do you have back-up equipment comparable in quality to your 

main gear?• what type of lighting will you use?• do you use wireless microphones?• do you offer non-linear digital editing?• do you copy-protect or scramble the videotape?

For this special production, you want a videographer that is pro-fessional, creative and artistic. you need to talk about the style of video you have in mind and how to highlight the events of the day that are the most important to you. here are some questions to ask your prospective videographer, courtesy of Frugalbride.com.

• what are your guarantees and liabilities?• do you have a written contract?• are you unobtrusive?• how will you be dressed at the wedding?•  will the shoot interfere with the proceedings in any way?•  how much do you charge for additional hours  

beyond the agreed contract?•  do you work with the photographer to ensure  

mutual cooperation?• are you there throughout the entire reception?•  will you go to a location (like the beach or a park)  

without additional charge?• how much are additional copies of the wedding tapes?• do you have references whom i can call?

— Booth Content Center —

••

Call our wedding coordinators today (989) 799-4122.www.horizonscenter.com

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18    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

receptionp   best man giving toastp   maid of honor giving toastp   parents giving toastsp   bride and groom listening 

to toastsp   bride and groom’s  

first dancep   bride dancing with father

p   groom dancing with motherp   the cakep   cutting the cakep   the bouquet tossp   taking off the garterp   throwing the garterp   bride and groom leaving  

the reception

tHe ceremonyp   groom walking down aislep   groom and wedding party 

awaiting bridep   bride walking down aislep   wedding kissp   bride and groom walking 

down aisle

p   guests throwing ricep   bride and groom in  

transportationp   Signing wedding certificatep   bride and groom’s hands 

with rings

p   portraitsp   bridep   bride and groomp   bride with detail of dressp   groomp   groom with best manp   groom with groomsmenp   bride with maid of honorp   bride with bridesmaidsp   ring bearer and flower girlp   wedding partyp   bride with parents

p   groom with parentsp   bride and groom with 

bride’s parentsp   bride and groom with 

groom’s parentsp   bride and groom with 

bride’s familyp   bride and groom with 

groom’s familyp   bride and groom  

with both sets of parents

name of photographer ____________________________________

address _________________________________________________

home phone ____________________________________________

Studio phone ____________________________________________

arrival time & place  ______________________________________

________________________________________________________

  total cost ________________

  deposit ________________

  balance ________________

  date due ________________

pre-ceremonylist any special requests ___________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

PhotographywoRkshEEt

Hilton HHonors® membership, earning of Points & Miles®, and redemption of points are subject toHHonors Terms and Conditions. ©2010 Hilton Worldwide

One Wenonah Park Place, Bay City, MI 48708Reservations: 1-800-222-TREE989-891-6000

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Page 19: Wedding Planner

booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    19

•worksHeet

Call These Professionals To:

cHUrcHrequired ________________________________________________

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deliver to:  ______________________________________________

time:  __________________________________________________

Briderequired ________________________________________________

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deliver to:  ______________________________________________

time:  __________________________________________________

attendantsrequired ________________________________________________

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deliver to:  ______________________________________________

time:  __________________________________________________

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deliver to:  ______________________________________________

time:  __________________________________________________

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[email protected]

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3385

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Rental Pieces Available

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required ________________________________________________

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deliver to:  ______________________________________________

time:  __________________________________________________

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deliver to:  ______________________________________________

time:  __________________________________________________

otHerrequired ________________________________________________

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deliver to:  ______________________________________________

time:  __________________________________________________

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Page 20: Wedding Planner

�0    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

PHOTO: jeRemY RAnSOm

couples have many decisions to make regarding their wedding ceremony and reception. one of those decisions conerns transporta-tion to and from the special event. 

there are many options in wedding transportation. the more traditional options include renting a car or limousine. the bridal as-sociation of america reports that the average couples spends $400 to $�00 for an automotive rental. however, prices may vary depending on geography and the type of vehicle rented.

wedding transportation is perhaps something grooms-to-be can get excited about. after all, we’re talking about cars -- some fancy, some large, and many decked out with different features. plus, it’s traditionally the responsibility of the groom to arrange transportation to and from the ceremony, reception and the hotel or honeymoon destination. 

grooms responsible for arranging transportation can consider the following options.

• limousine: a limo is one of the most traditional methods of transport on a couple’s wedding day. a limousine’s size enables them to carry the bridal party in its entirety. because the bride and groom often do not see each other before the ceremony, two limos may be rented, one larger for the bridal party, and one smaller for the bride and her parents, depending on personal preference.

• classic car: Sports car enthusiasts may want to make an entrance -- and exit -- behind the wheel of a sporty vehicle. these can include a high-end Ferrari or an aston martin. because of their high purchase price, sports car rentals may carry a premium.

• Stretch SuV: the traditional limo has morphed into the stretch SuV of popular models, including the cadillac escalade, Ford expedition or even a stretch hummer. because of their popularity, 

these rentals may be snatched up quickly. be sure to book well in advance of the big day.

• party bus: many couples are leaning toward a party bus rental, which may be a single- or double-decker bus that can fit scores of people inside. these are particularly attractive to couples with a very large bridal party, or those who hope to begin the celebration even before reaching the reception hall.

• horse-drawn carriage: Some couples truly want the fairytale feel on their wedding day. a horse-drawn carriage can evoke feelings of a cinderella-type day. the carriage tends to be best suited to warm weather. For winter weddings, a horse-drawn sleigh might make a better alternative.

• motorcycle: exciting couples may want to ride off into the sun-set on the back of a roadster or sports bike.

• horses: horses can haul more than just a carriage. a bride and groom atop a handsome steed can make for a memorable wedding transportation option and equally memorable photos.

• boat: individuals getting married by the sea or another body of water may want to consider attending the festivities via boat, be it a large vessel or a more intimate canoe or rowboat.

wedding day transportation varies depending on each couple’s preference. here are some other things to keep in mind concerning transportation.

• be sure to have transportation options at the ready for guests who may have over-indulged on alcoholic beverages.

• wedding party participants who arrived at the wedding by a limo or other source will 

need a ride home somehow.• Find out if a hotel 

nearby offers comple-mentary transporta-

tion to and from the reception 

hall.  

•wEddinG daY •Transportation

Page 21: Wedding Planner

booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    �1

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810.733.7424

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SKINCARE: 7-6 weeks before your wedding day we recommend a skincare trial with us to get you started on gorgeous skin! If your issues are with Combination skin/ clogged pores, try our MURAD Vitalic Pomegranate skincare: Keeps normal/combination skin in perfect, beautiful balance with Energizing Pomegranate Cleanser, T-Zone Pore Refi ning Gel, and Energizing Pomegranate Moisturizer SPF 15. This will even out oily and dry skin zones, as well as, clear out clogged pores and invigorates tired skin. Whatever your skincare needs, we are here to help you.

MAKEUP:Want a Natural but Sophisticated look for your wedding? Get a Trial done by BARE ESCENTUALS in the Fresh and Fabulous look. Or Try SMASHBOX signature look.Want something a little Smokey? STILA has a great Bronzed look. Or try the complexion perfection by CARGO to really GLOW!

It’s your big day!! We want to help you look perfect for your wedding day. Here at HIMANI Makeup & Skincare we offer services that will help you look your best for that special day. For a product purchase of $95 or more our BEAUTIFUL BRIDE package includes: Starting off with a skincare Trial to get your skin ready for your Wedding day. This will give you a regiment that will prepare your skin and get it to its most naturally glowing. Next we will create a perfectly fl awless look for you at your pre-wedding trial. On your BIG DAY we will apply your look and send you off looking GORGOUS with a glow and radiance that will last you all day.

Want your bridesmaids to look their best also? We have special services for them too! Bridesmaids can choose to have their makeup done the day of your wedding with a product purchase of $35 or more to make sure they look their best! They can have a trial done -Only $10 dollars!

www.himanimakeup.comwww.himanibeauty.com

Find us on Facebook*Saginaw and Midland locations offer only Bare Escentuals products.

Page 22: Wedding Planner

��    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

•what type of food items do you recommend for my budget and 

the number of guests? _____________________________________

what type of service, sit-down dinner or buffet, would be best?

________________________________________________________  

discuss menu selections. ___________________________________

what is the cost per person? ________________________________

do you provide linens? ____________________________________

is there an additional fee? __________________________________

is there a color selection? __________________________________

do you supply glasses, plates and silverware? __________________

is there an additional charge? _______________________________

do you handle all rental equipment, such as tables, chairs and serv-

ing pieces?  ______________________________________________

would it cost less if i handle the rentals myself?  _______________

how much time will you need to set up? _____________________

can we go over the table locations and seating arrangements ahead 

of time? _________________________________________________

do you handle the cleanup?   _______________________________

rental returns? ___________________________________________

will you personally handle and attend my reception? ___________

if not, what is the name of the person who will? _______________

________________________________________________________

do you make arrangements for flowers, decorations and music? __

________________________________________________________

do you provide the wedding cake? __________________________

if not, is there a cutting fee? ________________________________

notes:   _________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

will you provide the groom’s cake if we want one?  ____________

do you charge extra to pour coffee? _________________________

do you provide the liquor?  ________________________________

what is the cost per drink? _________________________________

is it cheaper if we provide our own liquor?  ___________________

do you charge a corkage fee per bottle if we provide our own 

wine and champagne? _____________________________________

do you require a guaranteed number of guests? _______________

what is the last date i can give you a final guest count? _________

do you have a contract? ___________________________________

when will you provide the final per-person cost?  ______________

what is the payment policy? ________________________________

________________________________________________________

what is the deposit to hold the date? ________________________

what is your refund or cancellation policy? ___________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

are gratuities already figured in the total price?  _______________

if so, what percent is being charged?  ________________________

do you provide food for the photographer, videographer or musi-

cians?  __________________________________________________

is this an extra per-person fee? ______________________________

will you pack a to-go snack for the bride and groom? __________

will you pack the top tier of the wedding cake?  _______________

notes: __________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

woRkshEEtC atering

••eception

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Parking Solutions For: Weddings, Private Parties,Business Events, Downtown Restaurants and so much more!

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Page 23: Wedding Planner

booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    ��

hors d’oeuvres served from ______  to ______ 

number of tables ____ chairs per table ____ 

linens provided ____ centerpieces provided ____ 

dinner menu  ____________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

Serving time _________   number of servers _________                      

miscellaneous ____________________________________________

________________________________________________________

ample photography settings    yes ____ no ____ 

parking:  self ____ valet ____                                

cost per person $_______ total cost $_______

deposit $_____________  balance $ ________

notes  __________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________  •eceptionworksHeet

reception hall  ___________________________________________

address  ________________________________________________

contact person  __________________________________________

phone (office)  __________________________________________

(home) _________________________________________________

reception details _________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________ 

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

date ______________ time _______ number of guests _________

adequate space for band/dJ/dancing?  yes _____ no_____

music begins __________ ends ____________

deliveries (flowers, equipment, etc.)  time ___________________

where   _________________________________________________

liquor will be provided by: p Facility p bride p groom

number of bartenders  ____________________________________

hours __________________________________________________

bar closed during meal?     yes ____ no ____                  

3951743-01

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(810) 695-5555 • www.Woodfi eldWeddings.com��

Page 24: Wedding Planner

�4    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan•tales of wedding woes frequent the news, especially as wedding 

season approaches. Stories about reception sites that have double-booked rooms, photographers who have not delivered photos, bridal gown shops that don’t have a dress finished on time and so many similar events are no longer a rarity.

the majority of wedding vendors are respectable businesses look-ing to provide couples with the ideal services and memories of their special day. however, some other vendors are just looking to make money at all costs.

avoiding trouble with your wedding means taking matters into your own hands and thoroughly protecting yourself.

• investigate the business or individual before exchanging money. a simple search online for reviews or checking with the better busi-ness bureau should reveal if a business has any complaints against it. complaints can range from bad service to lawsuits. this easy step can protect couples from potentially going into business with a company that should not be trusted.

• get word-of-mouth recommendations. a couple who has used a particular bridal vendor and had pleasant results is the best adver-tisement. ask friends and family members who have gotten married who they used for flowers, photos, music and more. using the same people is not being a copy-cat; it’s being a shrewd consumer.

• contracts are essential. have all of the details of the business transaction spelled out in a contract that both the vendor and you sign. writing “Size 8” gown is not enough. make sure the model number, price, details regarding deposits, alterations, etc., are included. dJs can write how many hours they will be playing music, how many breaks they will take, who exactly will be handling the wedding itself, and other details.

• check who will be servicing your wedding. on occasion a busi-ness may subcontract its services. For example, the photographer you meet at the studio may not be the photographer who shows up at your wedding. if you have a preference as to who services your event, be sure to request that person and have it included in the contract.

eddingscams

• obtain certification. Some scams are more subtle. For instance, bridal shops who remove designer labels from gowns because they are not authorized retailers is a subtle scam. another is jewelry stores that misrepresent the quality of diamonds and other jewelry. be sure to get legitimate certification when purchasing anything of value.

• ensure the vendor has the equipment described. Some limou-sine companies may send out flyers advertising high-end vehicles they don’t actually own or have access to. they subsequently arrive on your wedding day with a different vehicle. without a contract specifying the vehicle of your choice, you have little recourse against the company. Filter out shady brokers by asking to come inspect their vehicles on an off-day, like tuesday afternoon. you want to verify that they indeed own the limo, and that it’s in good condi-tion.

• Skimpy floral arrangements. upon booking a florist, most busi-nesses will sit down with couples and work up a sample bouquet or arrangement based on personal preferences. come the wedding day, however, couples might find their arrangements have considerably fewer flowers in them or they’re not the blooms originally chosen. Flowers are expensive, and some florists cut costs by skimping on the amount of actual flowers (not filler) they use. be sure contracts spell out how many flowers will be in each arrangement, what type of flowers, how many centerpieces, bouquets, boutonnieres, etc.

be sure you can enjoy your wedding and get the services you paid for by being savvy consumers. don’t simply open up your wallet to the first vendor you meet.

Wavoid

3951674-01

St. John Parish Hall and Family CenterBanquet Facilities

Located in Davison

BOOK YOUR EVENT TODAYSt. John the Evangelist Church810-652-0304 ext. 269www.stjohndavison.org

• Friday discounts• Seating for up to 500• Smaller rooms available• Round or Rectangle Tables• Catering Kitchen• Lighted, ample parking• Handicap Accessible

PHOTO: DIRLA STUDIO

Page 25: Wedding Planner

booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    ��

3947020-01

LORI TAYLOR248-459-4337

WWW.LASPHOTOGRAPHY01.COM

Page 26: Wedding Planner

�6    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan •

•PHOTO: STUDIO 7 PHOTOGRAPHY

•Wedding day hairGUidancE on

by SAmAnTHA CRITCHeLLAP Fashion Writer

new yorK (ap) - maybe that first call a bride-to-be makes after finding her fairy-tale wedding gown shouldn’t be to her mother. maybe it should be to her hairdresser.

the process for perfect tresses can take six months, says stylist ted gibson. “Six months means you can do whatever you want. you can grow it, cut it, grow it out again if you don’t like it,” he says.

but, he adds, there’s no point in having the hair conversation with your stylist until the dress is selected.

the neckline matters most, but so does the overall silhouette, as well as the formality of the gown, explains gibson, who has namesake salons in manhattan and washington.

giovanni giuntoli of redken says he also likes to get in on the selection of the veil or other head piece.

“a busy dress, you want simple hair. a sim-ple dress, you want more dramatic hair,” says prive founder laurent dufourg. “you want to complement the mood, but be opposite too. an elegant dress should have elegant hair, and a sexy dress, sexy hair.”

dufourg says brides certainly should step up their look, but never stray from what they feel comfortable with. they’re the ones, after all, who have to live with the photos for many years. “remember, it’s not a photo shoot or fashion show, it’s a wedding,” he says.

the associated press asked gibson, hair guru of tlc’s “what not to wear,” giuntoli, known as redken’s bridal expert, and celebrity stylist dufourg, who splits his time between his manhattan and los angeles salons, to sug-gest specific hairstyles based on three specific gowns from the new spring �011 collections that recently debuted on the runways.

1. dufourg on St. pucchi’s elaborate, frothy strapless gown with tiers of tulle and a bou-quet of fabric roses and ribbons on the back at the waist:

“this is an amazing dress,” he says. “you can wear your hair up or all back. the perfect 

Page 27: Wedding Planner

booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    �7

� �� �� ������ �

�3947037-02

LFA HALL2323 Amelith Road

Bay City • (989) 695-5181

Seats: 400 Cost: $1080 Security Deposit: $400Max Capacity 450

Use LFA’s catering-(hall rental included)

INCLUDES:• Kitchen • Bartenders

• Security • Wood Dance Floors• Ice •Air Condition

• Clean-Up

� �

you may be prepared to walk down the aisle, but have you prepped for walking down the aisles? the store aisles, that is.

registering for gifts is one of the great joys and secret dilemmas of the wedding-planning pro-cess: how many stores should i register at? is this too expensive? will anyone really want to give that? it might help to know what other brides are thinking, which may be why wedding clearing-house the Knot recently conducted an extensive bridal registry study. here’s what the more than 1�,000 respondents had to say about registries:

• bed, bath & beyond, target and macy’s are the most popu-lar registry choices.

• couples set up their registry six months before their wed-ding date, on average.

• two-thirds of grooms are involved in the registry process.• Six of 10 couples get help from someone - most often mom 

- when selecting items.• Forty percent of couples say their guest list influenced where 

they registered.• the average couple registers for 14� items, ranging from 

$11 to $44�, with kitchen and bath items as the most popular.• Forty percent of items are products a couple wants but 

doesn’t necessarily need.• half of couple didn’t add items to their registry because of 

the price.• Sixty-nine percent of a couple’s wedding gifts come from a 

registry; 11 percent of guests, on average, do not give a gift.

©CTW Features

look for this dress is to slick the hair back and do a beautiful braid on the side, maybe you could even put flowers in the 

braid.”that braid is a very youthful 

look, he adds. an alternative would be to wear a neat, high chignon -- like a ballerina bun.

he suggests that only brides with very thin, oily hair wash their hair on the day of the wedding. For everyone else, the hair will be smoother and stay in place better if it’s shampooed the day before.

�. gibson on oscar de la renta’s sweetheart-neck, cor-set-bodice gown with a flared, embroidered skirt:

this dress begs for the bride to show off her decollete, shoul-ders and the back of her neck. that bareness, gibson says, is feminine and sexy but still elegant and respectful.

a relaxed ponytail with side-swept bangs would work for long or even medium-length hair; it’s oK if there are a few pieces hang-ing down -- that just adds to the romantic look, he says.

what you don’t want are tight “sausage” curls, he adds: “Sausage curls over your head -- which women somehow think is fine for formal occasions -- are never appropriate for a bride.”

�. giuntoli on reem acra’s high-neck, slim, draped gown with the bodice swathed in tulle and decorated at the bustline with fabric petals and a small black bow:

this dress can take a statement hairstyle, says giuntoli. “this dress is interesting enough to allow the bride and the hairstylist to be a little more boastful with their styling choices.”

he’d also go for an updo, but it would be voluminous, not sleek.

the bow on the dress also could be a starting point, incorporating a similar ribbon, or at least ribbon of a similar color, into the hair.

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�8    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

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• children invited to the wedding reception should be dressed accordingly for the formality of the event. now is not the time for sneakers and jeans.

• provide entertainment for children during the lulls of the event. Kids may love to get up and dance, but become antsy during dinner courses. pack along a goodie bag of games, dVds and toys that can keep them occupied.

• Find out if you can bring along a kid’s chaperone, namely a babysitter or friend who can keep an eye on the kids while you enjoy yourself.

• the bride and groom may want to set up a “kiddie corral” area in the reception room, particularly if they plan to invite a lot of young children. put down foam interlocking mats and fence off the area so kids are contained.

• if the wedding will be open to children, consider adjusting the hours so that it takes place earlier in the day. this way parents will have time to get their children to bed on or close to their normal bedtime.

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there are no etiquette rules regarding whether children should attend weddings. the decision is entirely up to the couple getting married.

if you are a guest invited to a wedding and your children are not, there is no reason to take offense. you should certainly respect the wishes of the bride and groom. it is improper to turn up at the occasion with your children and put the couple on the spot.

young children are unpredictable and cannot be trusted to behave at all times. couples may not want to have their festivities -- often occasions that cost $�0,000 or more -- to be interrupted by children who may be a little too boisterous.

also, children may be an inconvenience to adults simply looking to have a good time. how much can you enjoy yourself if you are constantly keeping an eye on a toddler or tending to an infant? chances are your wedding experience will be compromised.

many other couples welcome the idea of having children at their weddings. children represent the extended family and the next generation. they can add life to a party and look adorable dressed in party clothes.

if your child is invited to a wedding, or you are the happy couple tying the knot, consider these tips.

• although children of all ages may be welcome, it’s often bet-ter to limit children to ages 4 and older, especially if they’ll be par-ticipating in the ceremony as a ring bearer or flower girl. children of this age are better able to take direction and are a little more mature. check if your ceremony site has rules regarding children in the ceremony.

• if you want to compromise when inviting children, allow them to be present at the church or synagogue, but restrict them from the reception. you can carefully word this on the invitation by saying “adult reception.” 

• talk to the caterer to find out if there is a reduced fare on children’s dinners. this can save on costs, particularly if children aren’t likely to eat an adult meal.

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�0    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

•when two people decide to get married, they're not only 

combining their possessions, but they're also bringing together unique ideas about personal finance. these ideas may bring chal-lenges to the relationship and should be discussed beforehand for the best start to the marriage.

planning ahead can build a strong financial foundation for a new marriage. before a couple becomes a family unit, each person has his or her own way of saving and spending, as well as their own approach to finances. additionally, one person may be bring-ing more debt to the relationship than the other. how finances will be handled should be one of the first conversations -- even before a reception venue is booked or a wedding gown is chosen.

when joining finances, consider these factors.

Bank accountsgenerally couples will find that a combination of joint and 

personal accounts makes finances easier. the joint account is used for monthly bills, housing expenses and things the couple does together. Separate accounts can be used for discretionary spend-ing, like vacation accounts, dabbling in investments or simply for splurging. this enables each person to have an independent identity but also share the responsibility of being a couple.

BudgEting ExPEnsEseven if each individual had a budget before the marriage, the 

financial status of a spouse will change the outlook. although each person may have their preferences on certain items, talking through the best ways to pool resources and save money can be an effective start to their life together.

EstatE PlanningJust because a couple is relatively young and newly married 

doesn't mean they shouldn't begin planning for their future -- including a family -- immediately. couples should explore the options on life and medical insurance plans. Sitting down with a financial planner can help, and he or she may be able to spell out options in retirement savings or education savings. it's never too early to begin investigating these scenarios.

kEEP thE linEs of communication oPEnmoney often makes or breaks a relationship. having similar 

goals regarding saving and spending is often the key to couples melding together. the best way to work through difficulties and avoid problems concerning finances is always to talk through all of the options. having an open line of communication about money -- and participating equally in the household finances -- can help equal marital success.

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booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    �1••wedding foodscakE, cRickEts and othER ‘lUckY’ 

by meLISSA KOSSLeR DUTTOnFor The Associated Press

brides and grooms hoping to add some good fortune to their mar-riages have some interesting options when planning a wedding feast.

many cultures around the globe have identified foods for newlyweds that supposedly will bring good luck, fertility or other blessings.

the foods range from fried crickets to candied almonds to fish.attaching symbolism to food is a common practice throughout 

the world, said amy bentley, associate professor of food studies at new york university.

“all rituals and holidays and celebrations involve food,” she said. “this is somewhat universal.”

in mexico, brides and grooms sometimes dine on fried crickets, lentil soup, and a bean, rice and agave dish, said beatriz mejia, di-rector of celebrations at one and only palmilla resort in los cabos, mexico. the crickets and the rice dish are said to bring fertility and good luck, and the soup is associated with good luck and good fortune, she said.

the resort has seen growing interest from couples outside of mexico in the foods and traditions of the region, she said.

“couples today are seeking a more personalized and authentic experience when they host a destination wedding that is reflected in both the food and venue,” she said.

brides and grooms discussing their celebrations on the wedding website theKnot.com also seem more interested than before in incorporating traditional elements into their plans, said rebecca dolgin, an executive editor for the site. “couples reaching into their own culture is more popular now,” she said. “incorporating culture is creating a buzz on the message boards.”

often, foods are considered lucky because of shape, color or taste, dolgin explained.

italians serve almonds at weddings because their bittersweet taste represents life, she said. the almonds are sugarcoated to wish the couple more sweetness than bitterness.

common at a chinese wedding is whole fish, because the chinese word for fish sounds similar to the word for abundance, dolgin said.

“the chinese also believe that eating spring rolls will bring wealth and prosperity,” she said. “due to its color and size, it is also thought to resemble gold bars.”

moroccan couples also eat fish because it’s an ancient symbol of fertility, she said.

Fish appears on the menu at many weddings, added pam Frese, a professor of anthropology at the college of wooster in ohio. Fish and other white meats, such as turkey and chicken, are com-mon wedding foods because of old beliefs that women had whiter blood than men, she said. white meats were thought to strength-en women’s blood, so they were served at weddings to energize the bride.

“it was extra strength to her on her wedding night so she can become a mother,” Frese said.

in caribbean countries, special attention is paid to the groom’s sexual performance on the wedding night, said caitlin austin, a spokeswoman for grace bay club in the turks and caicos. grooms are encouraged to eat the pistil of a conch “to increase their drive,” she said. “the conch’s pistil is viewed by locals as nature’s Viagra.”

conch meat also is commonly served to wedding guests because islanders believe it’s an aphrodisiac, she said.

wedding cake, one of the oldest elements of a wedding ban-quet, also has connections to luck and fertility. “the traditionally accepted practice is for the bride to have the first bite; otherwise, she’d be childless and barren,” dolgin said.

early english cakes were fruit cakes, and brides used to count the number of raisins in their piece of cake to see how many chil-dren they would bear, Frese said.

“the cake has power,” she said. “it promises reproductivity.”wedding cakes changed in texture and appearance in the 

19�0s, when lighter cakes with fluffy, creamy frosting became more popular. but the symbolism remained, dol-gin said. the white cake represented the bride’s purity. the decorations of flowers and other signs of spring are meant to represent birth and new life, she said.

“it’s this little bubble of nature in the middle of a wedding,” Frese said. “it’s the promise 

of fertility that’s embedded in spring.”

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��    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

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Page 33: Wedding Planner

booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    ��

•the multi-tiered cake that is a favorite wedding tradition that’s often presented at the end of the night. the happy couple takes a slice and enjoys the first piece.

in recent years, wedding cakes have become more of an artistic centerpiece than just a confectionary treat. couples often seek out renowned wedding cake bakers for a cake that will amaze the crowd and complete the theme of the wedding.

the average couple will spend between $700 to $800 for their wedding cake. although many catering halls or reception sites will include the wedding cake in a package deal, many couples choose to order their cake from a specialty bakery who creates 

be prepared for unexpected predicaments by putting to-gether a bag of “tools” to keep you fresh and gorgeous.

entrust this kit to one of your attendants. if all goes well, you can save the kit as a gift for a friend for her wedding day.

•  breath mints, spray or small tube of toothpaste and toothbrush

•  Small brush or comb•   ponytail holder, bobby 

pins or butterfly clip•   clear nail polish  

for stocking runs•   instant maximum-strength 

glue for shoe heels, deco-rations or jewelry

•  Safety pins•   white masking tape if 

something goes amiss with your dress

•  anti-static spray•  tissues•  aspirin•  Smelling salts•   Feminine hygiene prod-

ucts•  cellular phone•   energy bar, fruit-filled  

cookies, or bag of  pretzels to quell any  hunger pangs

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PHOTO: DIRLA STUDIO

culinary masterpieces.if television trends are any indication, many people are opting 

to spend several hundred to thousands of dollars on a customized wedding cake. these fondant and buttercream creations may be elaborate in nature, so much so they’ll likely need to be ordered several months in advance.

couples looking for something a bit different for their upcom-ing nuptials, many want to consider these trends in wedding cakes.

• �-d accents on the cake, such as graphic appliques.• a black-and-white motif that gives the cake a simplistic, yet 

trendy appeal.• a lot of bold color in the cake, instead of just white or ivory.• dramatic monograms that can add class to the cake.• painted cakes with edible food coloring paint that feature 

beautiful landscapes or a portrait. a work of art, they’re both deli-cious to eat and fun to admire.

• cakes that mirror the style of the wedding gown, including fondant ruffles and appliques.

many couples still opt for the traditional, and that is always in style. instead of experimenting with the outside of the cake, couples can be creative with cake flavor and fillings. imagine cutting open the cake to find red velvet or a chocolate ganache filling! 

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Page 34: Wedding Planner

�4    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

•-avorsF wEddinG

PHOTO: KmG PHOTOGRAPHY

most couples plan to thank guests for attending their weddings by issuing favors at the end of the festivities. being creative and tying the favor into the theme of the wedding are creative ways to show you care.

wedding favors can be anything the couple desires. throughout the years there have been some favor standards that many couples fall back on when they're short on ideas. matchbooks printed with the wedding date, Jordan almonds wrapped in tulle, drink stirrers, and candles are all classic favor options. if you desire something unique, consider these options.

• candy: go for something guests are sure to enjoy ... chocolate. consider custom engraved chocolate bars to feature your wedding date information and your names, or small boxes filled with candy. better yet, how about setting up a candy bar where guests can fill up their own goodie bags with favorite treats?

• useful tools: instead of the drink stirrers or coaster sets that will end up collecting dust, think about household items guests can really use. what about an ice cream scooper so memories of your wedding will always be sweet? who doesn't love to barbecue? a barbecue sauce basting set will be a grill-side must. depending on budget, you also can choose ice buckets, an engraved napkin holder or a picnic basket filled with picnic essentials.

• plants: Send guests home with something they can plant, whether flower seeds, seedlings or a small houseplant. as your love grows, so will the plants in every guest's home.

• Fun ideas: having a beach wedding? custom-print labels for lip balm or sunscreen. winter brides and grooms may add a tag to earmuffs or scarves that give the wedding date details. if you love a particular musical artist, give guests a cd with favorite songs.

• let them eat cake: inquire whether your baker can make miniature wedding cakes in the likeness of your larger one. then everyone can take home a replica.

• personalized photo: one of the easiest ways for guests to remember your wedding is to have a photo reminder. engraved frames with a photo of the happy couple will be classic gifts.  

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(Across from Guest Services)

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booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    ��

a second wedding is a chance to focus more on what you want as a couple instead of the wedding your parents may had hoped for you. today there are no rules in second weddings; the happy couple can customize it as they see fit.

chances are someone you know will make another trip down the aisle at one point in his or her life. individuals who have lost a spouse or have divorced may eventually choose to remarry.

Second weddings are a great way for couples to showcase their personalities and don’t have to be constrained by tradition. here are some top tips for taking that trip down the aisle the second time around.

• put your first wedding out of your mind. now is not the time to make comparisons. this wedding should be all about you and your new spouse-to-be. go for something completely dif-ferent than your prior wedding so there will be no side-by-side comparisons.

• choose a wedding party you really want. you can have a lavish wedding again, complete with a big bridal party. however, this time around you can choose the friends and family members you really desire to stand beside you, instead of individuals you may have felt obligated to include the first time around.

• go ahead and wear white. tradition once stated that take-two brides were not supposed to wear white. toss tradition aside and go ahead and do what you want. Just be sure the gown compli-ments your age and body shape and doesn’t seem too virginal. if 

your previous wedding was annulled, you also may be able to wear a wedding veil.

• include your children in the festivities and planning. if you or your future spouse has children from a previous marriage, make 

them feel a part of this new blended family by including them in the second wedding. they may play a role in the ceremony, such as making a speech or reading a religious passage. other brides and grooms choose to have their children walk them down the aisle this time around. also, involve the kids in the planning. they may be excited to help you choose wedding vendors or address invitations.

• personalize your event. take the time to write your own vows, make handmade favors or single out the special people in your lives.

• Feel free to be extravagant. you may be more established in life with a secure job and bigger paycheck. therefore you can expand the wedding budget a little more. go for all of the goodies you may have passed on with your previous marriage, such as exotic foods or that 

extra-long honeymoon.• involve the groom as well. today’s modern men want a say in 

their wedding just as much as the bride, say wedding experts. make sure he is apprised of all the details and ensure that he is able to make it to vendor appointments and the like.

Just as a second wedding is a second chance for happiness, it is another opportunity to throw the wedding of your dreams. 

takE two: tips foR a sEcond tRip down thE aislE

Second weddings are a great way for couples to showcase their 

personalities and don’t have to be constrained by 

tradition.

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�6    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan•

many couples about to get married are choosing to celebrate their nuptials abroad in an effort to have a unique experience or to save money. doing so requires knowledge of the legalities of get-ting hitched in a particular locale.

wedding expenses can vary greatly, but many couples expect to spend in the neighborhood of $�0,000 for their big day. couples looking to save money on their wedding ceremony and celebration are often turning to getting married internationally where the costs may be lower. others say “i do” overseas because of the distinct 

memories this type of wedding can provide.getting married abroad takes planning and research. there are 

certain steps to take to ensure the ceremony is valid and successful.• contact your country’s embassy in the country in which you’d 

like to be married to find out about any requirements they may have.• Secure your passports and bring your original birth certificates, 

divorce papers, etc. when you travel.• you may need to have documents translated into the destina-

tion country’s native language to receive a marriage license.• Some countries require a minimum residency of several days 

before they will issue a license for marriage.• investigate whether the country requires blood tests or immu-

nization records.• work with a wedding planner or an all-inclusive resort that 

specializes in weddings to arrange for all the details, such as florists, musicians, officiants, food, and more.

• recognize that just because your marriage is valid in the coun-try in which you were married it may not be considered valid in your native country. you may need to apply for a marriage license in your home country and undergo an official ceremony at home.

• generally weddings abroad have a smaller guest list than those you would have closer to home because the majority of people simply won’t be able to travel. For those who will be joining you, secure discounted accommodations, or arrange to have some travel expenses paid for guests.

• plan travel arrangements so that you arrive a few days earlier than your ceremony. this will help provide security if your flight is delayed or if there is another unforseen delay.

• pack essential items, such as the wedding gown and important documents in a carry-on bag so they will always be in your sight.

• arrange for translations for guests so that they -- and you -- will understand the ceremony. 

foREiGn coUntRYhow to get MArried in A

Lost Arrow ResortThe Closest Place to Far Away!

Book your wedding at Lost Arrow Resort …Where everything you need is already here. • Our on-site Event Coordinator will make sure

all your details are met. Or we will be happy to work with the Event Coordinator of your choosing.

• A Perfect Match – Have a quaint reception for50 or a lavish affair for 250 using our indoor banquet facilities.

• Our Riverfront Gazebo is the perfect spot foryour outdoor wedding.

• Lodging is available for everyone in our Riverfront Cottages and off wateraccommodations.

• The Restaurant at Lost Arrow Resort offers a perfect dining experience for everyone’s appetite.

Booking for 2011 and 2012

Lost Arrow Resort1749 Bomanville Road - Gladwin, MI 48624 • Phone: 989.345.7774 • Fax: 989.345.3743 • 1.866.51 Relax • 1.866.517.3529

www.lostarrowresort.net

Anytime…Any Reason…Any Season!

3953019-02

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booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    �7

the locales couples choose to spend their honeymoon are as varied as the couples themselves. while many couples head for a seaside resort, others choose adventurous getaways to such places as the alaskan wilderness.

whichever destination couples choose to spend their first vacation as husband and wife, one thing all couples can count is the cost. more specifically, the high cost of the honeymoon is something to count on. however, not all honeymoons need to break the bank. in fact, there are several ways couples can save substantial amounts of money while still enjoying their first getaway as a married couple.

• research where you’ll be staying. oftentimes, hotels of-fer luxury at a very high price. particularly in locales where many couples spend their honeymoon, such accommodations can be quite costly. however, savvy couples might be able to circumvent costly hotel accommodations if they do their research early. bed and breakfasts (b&b), for example, often range from practical to ultra-luxurious, and tend to cost a fraction of what luxury hotels charge. many couples actually prefer b&bs, feeling they’re more charming and cozy. 

one thing to be diligent about with respect to b&bs is the size of the accommodations, most notably the bedding. not all b&bs provide king or even queen-size bedding, and some might not pro-vide private bathrooms. be sure to confirm with the b&b as to each room’s accommodations before making a reservation.

• consider traveling during the “off” season. whereas spring and summer were once the most popular seasons to tie the knot, nowa-days many couples are looking to the fall to get married. while the months of June and July remain the most popular, September and october weddings have grown in popularity for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the aesthetic appeal of the fall seasons.

another advantage to a fall wedding is the opportunity for couples to save money on their honeymoon by traveling during the “off” season. peak season at beachside resorts is typically the summer months, and rates are therefore higher. however, travel-ing to a resort during the “off” season can save substantial amounts of money, and the weather will no doubt still be beautiful. what’s more, local business will most likely boast better deals as well, and the resort will not be as crowded as it typically is during peak season.

• consider a cruise. cruises might seem more expensive at first glance, but many cruises offer all-inclusive deals, wherein food and beverages are all paid for, and entertainment is provided. in addi-tion, couples who take a cruise will get the chance to see a variety of seaside locales. and since the cruise already has an itinerary planned, it’s a nice break from all the planning that went into the wedding. 

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Page 38: Wedding Planner

�8    wedding planner �011 booth mid-michigan

  contact name                        number                          arriVal time

bride   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

groom   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

bride’s parent    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

groom’s parents    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

maid of honor   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

best man    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

bridesmaids   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

groomsmen   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

ushers   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

officiant(s)   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Florist    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

photographer     _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Videographer   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Formalwear Shop   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

bridal Shop   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

hair & makeup   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

reception hall manager   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

rentals    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

caterer       _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

baker   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

car Service/limo   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

ceremony location contact  _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

ceremony musicians   _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

reception musicians   ___________________________________________________________________________________________

PHOTO: enjOY THe vIew PHOTOGRAPHY

wEddinG daYContacts•

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booth mid-michigan wedding planner �011    �9

advertiser index

affairs to Remember .................................................................28appearance valet ........................................................................22apple mountain Resort .............................................................. 3bangor township hall ...............................................................32bavarian inn lodge ....................................................................15 bay city boat lines ....................................................................12 bay valley Resort ......................................................................... 8 cherished celebrations ................................................................ 5corset shop, The ........................................................................30 cruise planners ............................................................................. 7 doubletree hotel ........................................................................18 durand Union station ...............................................................16 Expressions from The heart florals .......................................29 first metaphysical church ........................................................39Grand banquet and conference, The ....................................18 Great lakes loons ......................................................................11 himani..........................................................................................21 horizons ......................................................................................17 ima brookwood Golf club .....................................................13 imagine inc. .................................................................................... 9 Jan’s professional dry cleaner ...................................................16 kawkawlin township hall ........................................................29 la’s photography ........................................................................25lfa hall ......................................................................................27lost arrow Resort ......................................................................36 memories by candlelight and The petal bout ......................19

metabolic weight loss clinic ...................................................37 penny’s from heaven .................................................................34 perfect fit alterations ................................................................34 pulaski hall .................................................................................39skyroom, The ..............................................................................33 st John, mary margaret .............................................................34 st. John Evangelist catholic .......................................................24 summit printing and Graphics ...............................................39travel brokers ..............................................................................32 Unique bridal boutique ............................................................... 6University of michigan-flint Event and building services ..................................................40woodfield country club ...........................................................23 Zehnders Restaurant .................................................................... 2

(989) 892-22674th & Washington • Downtown Bay City

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Save the Date Cards • Invitations • AnnouncementNapkins • Thank Yous • Programs • Accessories

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Pulaski Hall

The Hall is also available to rent on Tuesdays.

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Page 40: Wedding Planner

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