12.01.2015 Views

Bridal Guide 2013 - Quad-Cities Online

Bridal Guide 2013 - Quad-Cities Online

Bridal Guide 2013 - Quad-Cities Online

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

WHAT TO DO BEFORE I DO<br />

THE BENEFITS OF<br />

DILLARD’S BRIDAL REGISTRY:<br />

Over 280 Stores in 29 States<br />

The Best Selection of Your<br />

Favorite Brand Names<br />

Easy Internet Accessibility<br />

on Facebook or<br />

at www.dillards.com<br />

FREE Wedding and Home Planner<br />

as Your Gift When You Register<br />

COMPLETE YOUR NEW HOME PROGRAM<br />

Save 20% on Most Regular-Priced<br />

Items Remaining on Your<br />

Registry After the Wedding<br />

®<br />

i thee wed<br />

(WHAT TO DO BEFORE & AFTER “I DO”)<br />

2 • <strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>®


Welcome to QC i do,<br />

the bridal guide published by<br />

The Dispatch and The Rock Island<br />

Argus. From stories on planning<br />

your perfect wedding to a<br />

handy checklist to keep you on<br />

track, this guide has everything<br />

you need.<br />

And don’t forget to check<br />

out the middle of the book for<br />

listings of local vendors.<br />

To announce your engagement<br />

or wedding, go to qconline.com/<br />

social/new, or visit the Dispatch/<br />

Argus office at 1720 5th Ave.,<br />

Moline, to fill out a form.<br />

We hope you enjoy QC i do,<br />

and remember to keep it handy<br />

as you plan the wedding of<br />

your dreams. We wish you the<br />

very best for your wedding —<br />

and beyond!<br />

10 Essential<br />

flower tips<br />

Get beautiful blooms that<br />

enhance your wedding<br />

14<br />

Designers open up about their<br />

go-to textiles<br />

Living in a<br />

material world<br />

20<br />

These cakes eschew the showy<br />

details and focus on flavor<br />

Simple and<br />

slightly perfect<br />

4 Smart budget ideas 5 Wedding tech 6 Invitation only<br />

8 Wedding venue 12 <strong>Bridal</strong> directory 17 ‘The One’<br />

18 State of groomswear 19 Food and drink 22 <strong>Bridal</strong><br />

checklist 23 Emergency kit<br />

Moline Dispatch Publishing Co., L.L.C. / Editor: Spencer Rabe / Design: Kermit T. Stevenson III / General Sales Manager: Kelly Johannes, (309) 757-5013<br />

“The Bride, The Groom, The Best Man, Flower Girls.<br />

The Extended Family, Your Crazy Uncle Larry.<br />

Some Days Last Forever – Let The La Quinta Inn –<br />

Davenport Help You Make Them Magical”<br />

It’s your special day – you’ve dreamt about<br />

it since you were a little girl.<br />

Why should anyone tell you what caterer,<br />

florist or DJ you can use<br />

• Banquet Rooms for up to 150 Guests<br />

• The Freedom to “Choose your own Caterer”<br />

• Complimentary <strong>Bridal</strong> Suite with your Reception *<br />

• Complimentary “Gift Opening” meeting room –<br />

day after reception *<br />

• Let your guests relax at the party – with their rooms<br />

just steps away from the Wedding Reception.<br />

*Upon meeting certain criteria<br />

La Quinta Inn-Davenport • 3330 East Kimberly Rd., Davenport, IA, 52807 • Phone: 1-563-359-3921<br />

<strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>® • 3


Smart budget ideas<br />

A couple’s guide to financially planning a wedding<br />

By Taniesha Robinson, CTW Features<br />

dream wedding with all its pomp and circumstance easily can turn<br />

A into a nightmare if a couple still is paying for it years after walking<br />

down the aisle. If there’s one lesson couples should take from the<br />

recent recession, it’s this: GET REAL. Get real about the bottom line and<br />

what matters most for creating lifelong memories.<br />

“In deciding how to fund your wedding, to a certain extent, you’re<br />

setting a precedent for how you’re going to manage your finances<br />

together when you’re married,” says Linda Leitz, a certified financial<br />

planner with Pinnacle Financial Concepts in Colorado Springs,<br />

Colo. Here are some smart steps for starting your financial<br />

future together on the right foot.<br />

Pre-wedding Planning<br />

It’s important to get a “values-based vision” of your<br />

wedding first, says William Timpson, a certified financial<br />

planner at Financial Focus, in Livingston, N.J. This vision<br />

addresses all of the must-haves for the celebration rather<br />

than every whim. “Once you have that vision down, then<br />

you can begin financial planning,” Timpson says. He also<br />

suggests creating a separate savings account to add to<br />

regularly in preparation.<br />

Couples who have more time tend to spend more, says<br />

Laura West, a certified financial planner with<br />

West Financial Advisors Certified in Nevada,<br />

Iowa. She suggests spending only three to<br />

six months planning: “You have<br />

to make quicker decisions, and<br />

you don’t add as much of those<br />

bells and whistles.”<br />

really get women thinking that they need to have this off-the-charts<br />

wedding,” West says. But budget-friendly elegance is possible when a<br />

couple focuses on what’s important to them personally.<br />

After finalizing their “values-based vision,” they can target areas<br />

where costs can really rack up — mainly the dress, flowers and food.<br />

Planner Leitz advises couples to travel off the beaten path for<br />

deals. Thinking about not only the time of day but the day of the<br />

week and the time of year has always been a way to save money<br />

on a wedding. Off-season — late fall, winter or early spring<br />

— and weekday plans don’t put you in high competition<br />

for venues.<br />

ask for helP<br />

When couples have beaten the unconventional path<br />

down to dust and are still coming up short in funding<br />

their wedding. It’s time to turn to family and friends<br />

for help.<br />

Timpson suggests couples start with their parents.<br />

“They’ll be pleased to see that you’ve put together a<br />

budget and that you have a vision and that there’s a<br />

reason why you’re doing this,” he says.<br />

If the bottom line still lies overhead after exploring<br />

all cost-saving options, a smart couple will know it’s<br />

time to amend their plans — opt for a longer<br />

engagement period to allow for saving<br />

more for the wedding.<br />

Whatever you do, don’t go into<br />

debt, Timpson says. “It’s a<br />

really tough way to start<br />

a relationship.”<br />

Cutting Costs<br />

“All those<br />

shows that<br />

are on TV<br />

Bride and groom: Raquel Alvarado<br />

and Diego Cross, Rock Island.<br />

Wedding date: May 27, 2011.<br />

Where we got married: Christ the King<br />

Catholic Church, Moline.<br />

Where we had our reception:<br />

Milan Community Center.<br />

What our cake was like: Olde Towne<br />

Bakery four-tier cake, each tier with<br />

a different flavor. The top tier was<br />

decorated with fresh flowers and<br />

silver-scroll monogram letters.<br />

What my gown was like: Strapless,<br />

fitted gown with slight flare at bottom<br />

and beading-covering bodice. I had<br />

always thought I would wear a full<br />

ballgown-like dress, but knew this was<br />

the one when I tried it on.<br />

Song for our first dance: Spanish<br />

cover of “Hallelujah” sung by Chilean<br />

singer Gepe.<br />

Gifts for bridesmaids and groomsmen:<br />

Bridesmaids received Crate & Barrel<br />

handcrafted vases and groomsmen<br />

received flasks personalized with<br />

their nicknames.<br />

The most unusual thing about our<br />

wedding: No ushers — we have never<br />

liked the idea of “second-choice”<br />

groomsmen. No bouquet/garter toss —<br />

a part of the reception that people try<br />

to avoid participating in, including us!<br />

My tip for brides to be: Be open to<br />

delegating tasks! Also, it is worth it to<br />

pay a little extra and not have to deal<br />

with the time/stress of doing it yourself.<br />

4 • <strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>®


Wedding tech do’s and<br />

don’ts: Mixing technology<br />

with tradition<br />

By Lindsey Romain, CTW Features<br />

The virtual world is endless. Naturally,<br />

implementing virtual assistance into<br />

wedding planning is equally endless. How<br />

do curious brides and grooms-to-be decide<br />

what fun Internet wizardry to utilize on the<br />

big day and what’s better left alone Here<br />

are some wedding tech do’s and don’ts:<br />

DO: USE ONLINE SERVICES TO HELP PLAN A WEDDING<br />

Websites like Google Wedding (google.com/weddings), The Knot<br />

(theknot.com) and Wedding Wire (weddingwire.com) are great<br />

places for wedding planning and inspiration, with ideas for themes<br />

and lists of vendors and registries, says Jeff Kear, founder of My<br />

Wedding Workbook (myweddingworkbook.com), another online<br />

planning resource.<br />

DON’T: SEND EVITES INSTEAD OF INVITES<br />

Breaking tradition might be tempting, but print invitations really<br />

are the only way to go. “You want your guests to take your wedding<br />

as seriously as you do,” says Anna Post, co-author of “Emily Post’s<br />

Etiquette” (William Morrow, 2011).<br />

Not everyone uses the Internet, so evites threaten to seclude older<br />

guests and relatives that are less tech-savvy. Also, the novelty of the<br />

printed invitation is something many guests will appreciate.<br />

Want an Uncomplicated Wedding Reception<br />

A Prairie Lodge<br />

8000 sq. ft. reception area with vaulted ceiling can<br />

accommodate 500 guests. Have your wedding here, too!<br />

One price includes:<br />

Choice of 2 meats<br />

All tables & linens<br />

Choice of 4 salads<br />

Set up, clean up & bartenders<br />

Vegetable & potato dishess<br />

All taxes & gratuities<br />

Dinner rolls & butter D.J. & more<br />

Visit: www.aprairielodge.com<br />

309.523.3619<br />

Conveniently located just off I-80 & I-88 near East Moline, IL<br />

Situated on 56 acres of prairie, woodland & wild flowers.<br />

MapQuest 3501 207th St. North, Port Byron, IL 61275<br />

Sunday<br />

January 6th, <strong>2013</strong><br />

at i wireless Center<br />

1201 River Drive<br />

Moline, IL<br />

11am-3pm<br />

Visit our Website at:<br />

www.weddingmaxbridalshow.com for more info.<br />

Wedding Transportation by by<br />

www.johannesbus.com<br />

115-31 Avenue, Rock Island, IL 61201<br />

309.788.7932 • 800.728.7895<br />

DON’T: USE TWITTER OR FACEBOOK TO TRACK RSVPS<br />

When it comes to the RSVP, avoid social media. “I do not recommend<br />

a situation when your wedding guest list is public,” Post says. “Who are<br />

you showing it to All of the people who are not invited It’s not even<br />

the traditional aspect — it could hurt someone’s feelings.”<br />

DON’T: JUST USE PHONE APPS TO HELP PLAN A WEDDING<br />

Trying to fit every detail into a phone can be jarring and complicated.<br />

“Real planning requires a fair amount of data entry, and mobile phones<br />

are ill-fit for that,” Kear says.<br />

DO: WEBCAST YOUR WEDDING<br />

Services like Ustream.tv make it possible for long-distance or disabled<br />

invitees to sit in on a wedding from home.<br />

“I think it can be a really cool way to keep the day focused on the<br />

people you love,” Post says.<br />

DON’T: LET A WEBCAM DICTATE THE CEREMONY<br />

“If you’re using a webcam, it needs to be planned, and it needs to<br />

be pretty discreet,” says Post, who suggests having someone assist with<br />

taking the video and worrying about the technical difficulties so the<br />

wedding party doesn’t have to.<br />

<strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>® • 5


Your Perfect Reception is Paramount<br />

Over 25 Years Entertainment<br />

Experience<br />

Scan for<br />

10%<br />

Discount<br />

• Fully Insured<br />

• Worry Free<br />

Phone or Text 563-343-8078 • www.qcportaparty.com<br />

&<br />

Where Artistry Creativity Bloom<br />

We specialize in turning each bride’s vision<br />

into unique customized floral creations<br />

FREE throw bouquet with wedding order<br />

Florist<br />

1601 5th Ave., Moline<br />

(309) 762-2895<br />

juliesartisticrose.com<br />

Experience the Elegance of<br />

Oakwood Country Club<br />

Bachelor Party Golf Packages Available!<br />

Let us personally assist you in the planning of<br />

your special event in our elegant east room<br />

Become a Clubhouse Member for a one time<br />

fee of $480 and Receive Free Room Rental.<br />

The Oakwood Staff is excited to include the<br />

following services at no additional cost:<br />

Linen tablecloths, napkins and skirting,<br />

china and silverware, cake cutting services,<br />

mirrors for your centerpieces, waitstaff and<br />

bartender services, including set-up and<br />

clean-up services & our staff is happy to<br />

assist with your decorations!<br />

Relax and enjoy your<br />

special day while we do<br />

the work for you!<br />

Discounts available for booking<br />

one or more events with us!<br />

1067 U.S. Hwy 6 Coal Valley, IL • (309) 799-3153<br />

6 • <strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>®<br />

Invitation only<br />

A primer on ways to go about<br />

your wedding invites<br />

By Anna Sachse, CTW Features<br />

According to TheKnot.com and WeddingChannel.com’s 2011 Real<br />

Weddings Study, today’s bride and groom spend an average of<br />

$331 on their invitations. This number can vary drastically, however,<br />

depending on factors like the method of printing, the materials used,<br />

and whether you’ve opted for a custom design from a boutique,<br />

digitally printed seal-and-sends from an online retailer, or a hands-on<br />

template or kit from the likes of Etsy.com.<br />

The options are infinite, so to help make picking the right paper<br />

element for you a little easier, here’s a rundown on four popular<br />

techniques.<br />

LETTERPRESS<br />

This is a centuries-old printing process in which raised moveable type<br />

and images are inked on plates and then pressed into the surface of<br />

heavy papers, leaving an impression/textural appearance.<br />

“Letterpress printing is experiencing a resurgence, and I think it’s for<br />

good reason,” says Wayne Gurnick, owner of Los Angeles-based event<br />

company Moments by Wayne Gurnick. “It sends the message that<br />

your event will be stylish and high quality, and that you pay attention<br />

to details.” Select a modern, hip design to create a cool vibe for your<br />

party, Gurnick notes, or go with a traditional look to suggest a more<br />

formal celebration.<br />

In terms of cost, letterpress typically is your priciest option, starting<br />

out at 30 percent to 40 percent more than digitally printed invitations.<br />

Visit local stationery shops to get an idea of their products and prices,<br />

or Gurnick-recommended sites like CarrotAndStickPress.com or<br />

PageStationery.com.


engraving<br />

Although it can be a smidge less expensive than letterpress,<br />

engraving (the oldest style of printing) is typically considered the most<br />

formal option, appropriate for a classic, black-tie affair, says Amanda<br />

Black, assistant editor of TheKnot.com. Text is etched onto a copper<br />

plate, which is then coated with ink and wiped clean, leaving color in<br />

the indentations. Paper is placed against the plate and pressed hard to<br />

create a raised design from the indentations.<br />

Black also suggests the economical alternative thermography —<br />

freshly printed inks are dusted with a powder and heated to create a<br />

raised type that looks similar to engraving.<br />

eCo-friendly<br />

Look for invitations made with materials like soy and vegetable-oil<br />

ink, and recycled, bamboo or cotton papers. The price varies widely,<br />

depending on the brand, materials and method of printing, but Black<br />

recommends SmockPaper.com and BellaFigura.com.<br />

diy<br />

Taking your words into your own hands can save you a bundle, says<br />

Gurnick, but be prepared to invest some time in the project. If you have<br />

a strong design sense and layout and printing capabilities, go ahead<br />

and start from scratch. Otherwise, Gurnick suggests a hybrid approach<br />

— design your own invitation and have them printed by a local service.<br />

The three stages of stationery<br />

1. Save the date. As soon as you have your wedding<br />

date set in stone — the venue is booked — you should<br />

send out a save-the-date. You don’t need to go<br />

overboard on details; just your names and the date<br />

to keep open. If you have a wedding website already<br />

set up with details about the ceremony, reception and<br />

accommodations, include the URL.<br />

2. Wedding invitation and enclosures. Let’s get this out of the way right<br />

now: Do not include registry information on the invitation.<br />

The actual wedding invite is where you officially invite your guests.<br />

Plan to put these in the mail around two months prior to your wedding<br />

with a self-addressed, stamped RSVP card. Include a spot for a dinner<br />

selection. List a date by which you’d appreciate their reply, usually four<br />

weeks before the wedding date. Include a separate card that lays out the<br />

details for your reception and accommodations.<br />

3. Day-of pieces. The invitation might be the main attraction, but there<br />

are still some paper pieces you need for the big day:<br />

• Programs: If you’re having a ceremony in a house of worship, this will<br />

list info for the officiant, readings, the wedding party, etc.<br />

• Table numbers/names<br />

• Escort cards and place cards: Escort cards tell the guest which table<br />

they are at. Place cards show them where at the table they are sitting.<br />

• Menus: An outline of dinner, set with their place card, is a nice touch.<br />

• Thank-yous: If you want to get a jump on showing your gratitude,<br />

it can be worthwhile to invest in stationery with your newly<br />

married name.<br />

— Timothy R. Schulte, CTW Features<br />

<strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>® • 7


Wedding venue<br />

Novel places for tying the knot<br />

By Lindsey Romain, CTW Features<br />

The constantly morphing<br />

landscape of weddings<br />

means alternative options for<br />

venues. While classic church<br />

weddings and hotel ballroom<br />

receptions are traditional<br />

go-tos, brides and grooms<br />

looking for a little spice are<br />

opening the door to more<br />

unique and economical<br />

wedding-day locales.<br />

Alternative venues also mean an opportunity to combine the<br />

ceremony and reception. According to a survey from The Wedding<br />

Report, more than 60 percent of ceremonies and receptions were<br />

held in the same location in 2011. The same report also showed a<br />

decrease in the popularity of some traditional wedding locales — places<br />

of worship, country clubs and beaches — and the addition of new,<br />

nontraditional categories like museums, art galleries and theme parks.<br />

On-site receptions also cut costs for photography, videography and<br />

car services, since transportation is not an issue.<br />

“Simplification is always an advantage,” says Meg Keene, author<br />

of “A Practical Wedding: Creative Ideas for Planning a Beautiful,<br />

Affordable and Meaningful Celebration” (Da Capo Lifelong Books,<br />

2011). “You reduce the stress and cost of decorating and paying for<br />

two venues, and you don’t have to transport everyone from one place<br />

to another.”<br />

This trend toward on-site receptions and unusual venues means a<br />

fun opportunity for couples and wedding planners alike. Here are some<br />

picks for nontraditional ceremony and reception locations.<br />

MUSEUMS OR LIBRARIES<br />

The nostalgic sentiment of a favorite museum or the quiet<br />

atmosphere of a library can be a great outlet for low-key couples.<br />

“If a couple is really into art, they could get married in anything from<br />

a photography museum to an aquarium,” says Wynn Austin, a wedding<br />

and event planner in San Diego. Austin suggests looking for something<br />

with a touch of sentimentality or a shared memory between the pair.<br />

Off the (local) beaten path<br />

Here’s a list of several out-of-theordinary<br />

locations for weddings:<br />

Black Hawk State Historic Site<br />

/ Watchtower Lodge, 1510 46th<br />

Ave., Rock Island. (309) 788-<br />

9536, www.blackhawkpark.org.<br />

With beautiful wooden floors,<br />

two fireplaces and a balcony, the<br />

facility can accommodate up to<br />

250 people.<br />

Celebration Belle, 2501 River<br />

Drive, Moline. (309) 764-1952,<br />

www.celebrationbelle.com.<br />

The Celebration Belle can<br />

accommodate up to 325 people<br />

on one deck or 650 people on the<br />

entire boat.<br />

Circa ’21 Dinner Playhouse,<br />

1828 3rd Ave., Rock Island. (309)<br />

786-7733, www.circa21.com.<br />

Opened in 1921, this theater was<br />

originally home to vaudeville<br />

shows and silent movies.<br />

Davenport public parks, (563)<br />

326-7812. From the Duck Creek<br />

and Credit Island lodges to the<br />

beautiful gardens of Vander Veer<br />

Botanical Park and the Stampe<br />

Lilac Garden, Davenport offers<br />

many resources to make your<br />

day beautiful.<br />

Rock Island public parks, (309)<br />

732-7275. Rock Island boasts<br />

many beautiful and popular<br />

parks for your wedding and<br />

reception, including Hauberg<br />

Civic Center, Lincoln Park,<br />

Longview Park and Sunset Park.<br />

Figge Art Museum, 225 W. 2nd<br />

St., Davenport. (563) 326-7804,<br />

www.figgeartmuseum.org.<br />

The Figge, designed by British<br />

architect David Chipperfield,<br />

offers a pleasant and unique<br />

atmosphere for your wedding.<br />

Mississippi Valley<br />

Fairgrounds, 2815 W. Locust<br />

St., Davenport. (563) 326-<br />

5338, www.mvfair.com. The<br />

fairgrounds has a dance<br />

floor and stage available for<br />

receptions, as well as three rooms<br />

from which to choose.<br />

Modern Woodmen Park,<br />

209 S. Gaines St., Davenport.<br />

(563) 324-3000, www.<br />

riverbandits.com. Die-hard<br />

baseball fans can arrange to get<br />

married on the field or to host<br />

their rehearsal dinner and/or<br />

reception at the self-proclaimed<br />

most beautiful ballpark in<br />

the Midwest.<br />

Bride and groom: Michelle Bollaert<br />

and Paul Bayer, Moline.<br />

Wedding date: Aug. 13, 2011.<br />

Where we got married: Christ the<br />

King Church, Moline.<br />

Where we had our reception: The<br />

Rogalski Center Ballroom, Davenport.<br />

What our cake was like: Our cake<br />

had five tiers with white buttercream<br />

frosting, pink ribbon at the base of<br />

each layer, and flowers to match<br />

the bridesmaid bouquets. It looked as<br />

amazing as it tasted! Our cake topper<br />

was a special figurine we found of a<br />

bride and groom underneath<br />

a cross.<br />

What my gown was like: My gown<br />

was ivory with a beautiful crystal<br />

overlay and buttons down the back. I<br />

added custom-made cap sleeves with<br />

crystal beading to match the gown,<br />

and wore a veil.<br />

Song for our first dance: “You and I”<br />

by Michael Bublé.<br />

The most unusual thing about our<br />

wedding: We had each bridal party<br />

couple chose a fun song to enter the<br />

reception with. Some of the song<br />

selections were hilarious and our<br />

bridal party busted out some awesome<br />

dance moves as they came in!<br />

My tip for brides to be: Try to savor<br />

each and every moment of your<br />

special day! It will be the most joyful<br />

and fun day of your life, so relax and<br />

celebrate with your family and friends!<br />

8 • <strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>®


University Club QC<br />

FARMS OR BARNS<br />

“Rusted and rugged seems to be the new chic for weddings,” says<br />

Laura Nedelcu of VOW Wedding Consulting in New York. “A lot of<br />

couples are going for more of a vintage feel, so any venue that has that<br />

look will do just fine.”<br />

A rustic wedding also means an easy transition from ceremony<br />

to reception, with nothing more than haystacks and rows of chairs<br />

separating guests from the post-wedding festivities. Finding a clean,<br />

easy-to-use barn owned by a friend or relative also slashes budgets.<br />

• People’s Choice Award<br />

• Area’s Most Unique Venue<br />

• Two beautiful facilities to choose from<br />

1518 5th Ave., Moline, IL 309-764-1217<br />

www. universityclubqc.com<br />

WAREHOUSES OR LOFTS<br />

“I’ve seen couples who love the urban feel who find empty<br />

warehouses for their wedding,” Austin says. These large, spartan<br />

spaces mean plenty of opportunity for personal decorations, sprawling<br />

food services and, most importantly, room to party!<br />

EYE ON THE BUDGET<br />

The unique, fun location might be set, but it’s important not to go<br />

overboard on the little things and make a cost-effective venue pricey.<br />

Nedelcu suggests keeping an eye on menus and rentals. ”Off-site<br />

catering companies offer many menu options, which allow for a<br />

significantly lower food cost per person,” she says.<br />

According to Austin, it’s the food that will make or break any budget<br />

— and the drinks. “Most caterers will allow the couple to purchase<br />

their own alcohol,” she says.<br />

Putnam Museum & National<br />

Geographic Giant Screen<br />

Theater, 1717 W. 12th St.,<br />

Davenport. (563) 324-1054, www.<br />

putnam.org. Whether you want<br />

a private screening in the Giant<br />

Screen Theater, or to celebrate<br />

amid the charm of the latest<br />

exhibit, the Putnam Museum offers<br />

a unique setting in the distinctive<br />

atmosphere of a museum.<br />

<strong>Quad</strong> City Arts Center, 1715 2nd<br />

Ave., Rock Island. (309) 793-1213.<br />

Located in a beautifully restored<br />

building, the Arts Center offers a<br />

classy gallery setting overlooking<br />

the Mississippi River.<br />

<strong>Quad</strong> City Botanical Center,<br />

2525 4th Ave., Rock Island. (309)<br />

794-0991, www.qcgardens.com.<br />

If you’re looking for a tropical<br />

paradise for your wedding,<br />

reception, rehearsal dinner,<br />

bridal shower or engagement/<br />

wedding photos, the Botanical<br />

Center can help you make<br />

your day memorable. A<br />

semipermanent garden canopy<br />

can seat 200 people.<br />

River Music Experience,<br />

129 Main St., Davenport.<br />

(563) 326-1333, www.<br />

rivermusicexperience.org. The<br />

RME museum is a unique<br />

setting and anything but typical.<br />

Riverside Family Aquatic<br />

Center, 3300 5th Ave., Moline.<br />

(309) 797-0788. The water park<br />

offers pool rentals for weddings,<br />

receptions or bridal showers.<br />

Rock Island County Forest<br />

Preserves, (309) 558-3594,<br />

www.co.rock-island.il.us.<br />

Illiniwek, Indian Bluff, Loud<br />

Thunder and in some cases<br />

even Niabi Zoo are available<br />

for weddings or receptions.<br />

For zoo information, call<br />

(309) 799-3482.<br />

REVELL JEW<br />

YOUR JEWELRY, YOU<br />

C<br />

Store hours: ustom design is our specialty.<br />

Mon.- Fri. 10 am - 6 pm<br />

Sat. 10 am - 4 pm Our goldsmiths can reate interpret exactly an<br />

what you’ve been looking for an<br />

904 Middle Road, Visit our showroom and brows<br />

Bettendorf.<br />

range of contemporary and tra<br />

(in the Duck ) Creek Plaza<br />

collections including the larges<br />

P: 563.359.8856<br />

mens wedding bands . in the Qu<br />

www.jhrevell.com<br />

<strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>® • 9


Essential flower tips<br />

Get beautiful blooms that enhance your wedding<br />

By Anna Sachse, CTW Features<br />

1. THINK ABOUT LOCATION AND TEMPERATURE<br />

“If you’re having an outdoor summer wedding, make sure your<br />

florist knows that the flowers have to stand up to sun and heat so<br />

that they can choose hardier varieties,” says Rachel Bowes, owner of<br />

Seattle-based Finch & Thistle Event Design (FinchAndThistleBlog.com).<br />

“Orchids come to the rescue in warm weather,” adds Diane Wagner,<br />

a New York-based floral designer (DianeWagnerDesigns.com) and<br />

author of “Beautiful Wedding Flowers: 350 Corsages, Bouquets, and<br />

Centerpieces” (Hearst, 2011). “I like cymbidiums; they’re available in<br />

a wide variety of colors, from creamy white to fresh green, soft pink,<br />

burgundy and even brown! And the interesting shape is perfect for<br />

both bouquets and table arrangements.”<br />

2. BE SMART ABOUT YOUR SPENDING<br />

“You may dream of large bowls of fluffy peonies for your<br />

centerpieces, but if that’s not realistic with your budget, then consider<br />

just incorporating peonies in your bridal bouquets,” Bowes says.<br />

“(Bouquets) will be the most photographed arrangements and are<br />

worth spending the most money on.”<br />

3. INCORPORATE THE DATE<br />

“Think about picking your wedding date based on when your<br />

favorite flowers are in season,” says Bowes. “Love dahlias How about<br />

an August or September event Love peonies and anemones May is<br />

the best time of year for you.”<br />

Adds Wagner: “Using seasonal flowers and mixing colors, textures<br />

and sizes will achieve a lovely natural style. For fall weddings I like<br />

to use multipetaled dahlias, feathery astilbe and velvety celosia with<br />

berried ivy. Add individual charm with bittersweet vines, wheat and<br />

mini gourds or pumpkins.”<br />

4. DON’T OVERDO IT<br />

“If you have a large number of bridesmaids, ask your florist to design<br />

interesting but small bouquets,” Wagner says. “A few cymbidium<br />

orchids, a clutch of mini calla lilies wrapped with beautiful ribbon, or<br />

a nosegay of spray roses are all good choices. When the girls are lined<br />

up for photos, their personalities will shine through rather<br />

than focusing on a line of large bouquets.”<br />

5. KEEP YOUR ATTIRE IN MIND<br />

“Lace dresses are very popular right now and<br />

choosing flowers that complement (and not overpower)<br />

an exquisitely detailed pattern can be challenging,”<br />

says Wagner. “My favorite selection is a bouquet<br />

of beautiful, lush garden roses in a single shade.<br />

The color statement (pale or bright) and delicate<br />

texture of the numerous petals looks perfect against<br />

lace patterns.”<br />

6. PICK APPROPRIATE GROOM BLOOMS<br />

“I like to relate the groom’s boutonniere to the<br />

bride’s bouquet,” says Wagner. “If she chooses<br />

large, fluffy peonies, give him a ranunculus or<br />

spray rose in a similar color. The size and shape<br />

will be perfect for his lapel, and they will look<br />

wonderful together in photos!”<br />

7. BE SENSIBLE ABOUT SCENTS<br />

“While herbs, lilies and scented garden<br />

roses can be a subtle and beautiful way to add<br />

atmosphere to a tented or garden wedding,<br />

they could cause guests with allergies serious<br />

problems in an indoor venue,” Bowes warns.<br />

8. TRUST YOUR VENDOR<br />

“Tell your florist your look and style<br />

(bring pictures), and then let her/him run<br />

with their imagination,” Bowes says.<br />

“You chose your florist because you love<br />

their style, so let them pick the best flowers and<br />

foliage for the time of year and your color palette.”<br />

Bride and groom: Megan Tedell<br />

and Chris Hlady, Seattle, Wash.<br />

Wedding date: June 18, 2011.<br />

Where we got married: Calvary<br />

Lutheran Church, Moline.<br />

Where we had our reception:<br />

Figge Art Museum, Davenport.<br />

What our cake was like: We had two<br />

kinds — chocolate and vanilla, both<br />

with delicious raspberry filling and<br />

buttercream frosting. Our cake was<br />

simply frosted, with just a few flowers<br />

on top for decoration. It was from the<br />

Olde Towne Bakery in Moline.<br />

What my gown was like: My gown<br />

was strapless ivory taffeta, with<br />

asymmetrical bands of fabric. It was<br />

unembellished, except for a sparkling<br />

belt that I added. It was simple, but<br />

made me feel very beautiful and elegant.<br />

Most humorous moment: That’s tough<br />

to say, but we did have a very funny<br />

bridal party, which made the day a lot of<br />

fun. We drove around and took pictures<br />

before the ceremony, and spending<br />

some time joking around with our closest<br />

friends and family was a great and<br />

relaxing way to start a really hectic day.<br />

My tip for brides to be: Remember that<br />

everything is probably not going to be<br />

“perfect” at your wedding, and that’s<br />

OK. It’s a celebration, so laugh a lot<br />

and have fun! And don’t worry about<br />

comparing your wedding to other<br />

ones, just focus on the things that are<br />

important to you that day.<br />

10 • <strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>®


Elegant Wedding Favors<br />

10 % OFF<br />

your order with this ad<br />

1422 5th Ave., Moline<br />

(309) 764-1814<br />

Village of East Davenport<br />

(563) 324-6137<br />

www.lagomarcinos.com<br />

Discover our captivating gardens, immerse<br />

yourself in the natural world and<br />

celebrate your life! The Botanical<br />

Center is available for Weddings,<br />

Receptions, Rehearsal Dinners,<br />

<strong>Bridal</strong> Showers, and Photo Shoots.<br />

Enchanting indoor and outdoor<br />

accommodations available that are<br />

designed to delight your imagination.<br />

2525 Fourth Avenue, Rock Island<br />

(309) 794-0991<br />

www.qcgardens.com<br />

Bring in your own food or your own caterer<br />

• We Accommodate 420<br />

• One of the largest dance floors in the area<br />

• Decorating Services<br />

• Special Friday and Sunday Rates<br />

• Our facility accommodates indoor/outdoor weddings<br />

Milan<br />

Community<br />

Center<br />

2701 1st St. E ~ Milan, IL<br />

309-787-8510<br />

<strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>® • 11


<strong>Bridal</strong> directory<br />

AIRPORT/AIR TRAVEL<br />

<strong>Quad</strong> City<br />

International Airport<br />

2200 69th Ave., Moline, IL<br />

(309) 764-9621<br />

www.qcairport.com<br />

See our ad on page 17<br />

ALTERATIONS<br />

Alterations and Beyond<br />

by Pam King<br />

(309) 737-9634<br />

www.alterationsandbeyond.com<br />

BACHELORETTE<br />

PARTIES<br />

The Speakeasy<br />

1818 3rd Ave., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 786-7733<br />

www.circa21.com<br />

See our ad on page 9<br />

BANQUET &<br />

RECEPTION<br />

A Prairie Lodge<br />

3501 207th St. N., Port Byron, IL<br />

(309) 523-3619<br />

www.aprairielodge.com<br />

See our ad on page 5<br />

Eagle Reception Hall<br />

21st St. & 4th Ave., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 786-7600<br />

The Golden Leaf<br />

Banquet Center<br />

2902 E. Kimberly Road,<br />

Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 344-9800<br />

www.thegoldenleafcenter.com<br />

Hotel Blackhawk<br />

200 E. 3rd St., Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 322-5000<br />

www.hotelblackhawk.com<br />

See our ad on page 7<br />

i wireless Center<br />

1201 River Drive, Moline, IL<br />

(309) 764-2001<br />

www.iwirelesscenter.com<br />

See our ad on page 17<br />

La Quinta Inn & Suites<br />

of Davenport<br />

3330 E. Kimberly Road,<br />

Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 359-3921<br />

www.laquintahoteldavenport.com<br />

See our ad on page 3<br />

Milan Community Center<br />

2701 1st St. E., Milan, IL<br />

(309) 787-8510<br />

www.milanil.org<br />

See our ad on page 11<br />

Oakwood Country Club<br />

1067 U.S. Highway 6, Coal Valley, IL<br />

(309) 799-3153<br />

See our ads on page 6, back page<br />

Short Hills Country Club<br />

2500 11th St., East Moline, IL<br />

(309) 755-0618<br />

www.shorthillscc.com<br />

See our ad on page 20<br />

The Rock<br />

302 1st St., Coal Valley, IL<br />

(309) 799-ROCK (7625)<br />

www.rockreception.com<br />

See our ad on page 17<br />

Stoney Creek Inn &<br />

Conference Center<br />

101 18th St., Moline, IL<br />

(309) 743-0101<br />

www.stoneycreekinn.com<br />

See our ad on page 19<br />

University Club QC<br />

1518 5th Ave., Moline, IL<br />

(309) 764-1217<br />

www.universityclubqc.com<br />

See our ad on page 9<br />

BEAUTY SERVICES<br />

John Taylor<br />

Salon & Day Spa<br />

4102 Blackhawk Road,<br />

Rock Valley Plaza, Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 786-7090<br />

www.johntaylordayspa.com<br />

Also located at<br />

Jumer’s Casino & Hotel<br />

777 Jumer Drive, Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 756-4696<br />

www.jumerscasinohotel.com<br />

See our ad on page 19<br />

Mark Jeffrey Salon<br />

1727 28th St., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 786-5464<br />

www.markjeffreysalon.com<br />

BRIDAL REGISTRY<br />

Dillard’s<br />

NorthPark Mall, 320 W. Kimberly<br />

Road, Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 388-7954<br />

SouthPark Mall, 4500 16th St.,<br />

Moline, IL<br />

(309) 797-1866<br />

www.dillards.com<br />

See our ad on page 2<br />

K&K True Value Hardware<br />

1818 Grant St., Bettendorf, IA<br />

(563) 359-4474<br />

www.kkhardware.com<br />

BRIDAL SHOW<br />

Wedding Max <strong>Bridal</strong> Show<br />

(309) 751-8605<br />

www.weddingmaxbridalshow.com<br />

See our ad on page 5<br />

CAKES & SWEETS<br />

Heller Specialty Cakes<br />

(309) 944-4323<br />

lheller@geneseo.net<br />

www.hellercakes.com<br />

CATERERS<br />

At Your Service Catering<br />

4000 11th St., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 732-1885<br />

www.moefoodsllc.com<br />

DeBord Catering, LTD<br />

708 18th Ave. A, Moline, IL<br />

(309) 762-5323<br />

debordcatering@sbcglobal.net<br />

www.debordcatering.com<br />

CEREMONY &<br />

RECEPTION<br />

Hauberg Civic Center<br />

1300 24th St., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 732-7666<br />

www.rigov.org/citydepartments/<br />

parks/haubergcenter.html<br />

See our ad on page 11<br />

Milan Community Center<br />

2701 1st St. E., Milan, IL<br />

(309) 787-8510<br />

www.milanil.org<br />

See our ad on page 11<br />

Bride and groom: Maria Pocivasek<br />

and Jeremy Kellison, Omaha, Neb.<br />

Wedding date: April 21, 2012.<br />

Where we got married: St. Pius X<br />

Catholic Church, Rock Island.<br />

Where we had our reception:<br />

Skellington Manor, Rock Island.<br />

What our cake was like: Four-tier<br />

white cake with ivory swirls.<br />

What my gown was like: Simple A-line<br />

with a white lace overlay.<br />

Song for our first dance: “The Marriage<br />

Prayer” by John Waller.<br />

Most humorous moment: The flower<br />

girl got away during the ceremony and<br />

ran laps around the church until she<br />

was caught.<br />

Gifts for bridesmaids and groomsmen:<br />

Shoes for the bridesmaids and shot<br />

glass or T-shirt for groomsmen<br />

(depending on age).<br />

The most unusual thing about our<br />

wedding: Three priests concelebrated<br />

the wedding.<br />

My tip for brides to be: Ask married<br />

friends for references about the pluses<br />

and minuses of places they used.<br />

Firsthand reviews are usually the best.<br />

12 • <strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>®


<strong>Quad</strong> City Botanical Center<br />

2325 4th Ave., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 794-0991, ext. 25<br />

www.qcgardens.com<br />

See our ad on page 11<br />

<strong>Quad</strong> City River Bandits<br />

209 S. Gaines St., Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 324-3000<br />

www.riverbandits.com<br />

DENTAL WHITENING<br />

Schommer Dental<br />

2010 E. 38th St., Suite 105,<br />

Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 355-5177<br />

See our ad on page 21<br />

DJs<br />

Malibu Mark Manuel<br />

Entertainment<br />

2114 W. 31st St., Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 343-8078<br />

www.qcportaparty.com<br />

See our ad on page 6<br />

FINE CHOCOLATES<br />

Lagomarcino’s<br />

1422 5th Ave., Moline, IL<br />

(309) 764-1814<br />

Village of East Davenport,<br />

Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 324-6137<br />

www.lagomarcinos.com<br />

See our ad on page 11<br />

FLORISTS<br />

Colman Florist &<br />

Greenhouses Inc.<br />

2754 12th St., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 786-4433, (800) 827-1385<br />

1203 Jersey Ridge Road, Suite 1,<br />

Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 322-7949<br />

www.colmanflorist.com<br />

Julie’s Artistic Rose<br />

1601 5th Ave., Moline, IL<br />

(309) 762-2895<br />

www.juliesartisticrose.com<br />

See our ad on page 6<br />

Lamps Flower Shop<br />

3900 14th Ave., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 788-7658<br />

www.lampsflowershop.com<br />

FLOWER<br />

PRESERVATION<br />

JJ’s Keepsake Gardens<br />

6424 N. Howell St., Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 386-6050<br />

www.jjskeepsakegardens.com<br />

FORMAL WEAR<br />

Ducky’s Formal Wear<br />

1534 River Drive,<br />

John Deere Commons, Moline, IL<br />

(309) 797-9889<br />

www.duckysformalwear.com<br />

See our ad on page 19<br />

HOTELS<br />

Fairfield Inn by<br />

Marriott Moline<br />

2705 48th Ave., Moline, IL<br />

(309) 762-9083<br />

www.marriott.com/mliml<br />

See our ad on page 20<br />

Stoney Creek Inn &<br />

Conference Center<br />

101 18th St., Moline, IL<br />

(309) 743-0101<br />

www.stoneycreekinn.com<br />

See our ad on page 19<br />

INSURANCE<br />

E H Schroder<br />

Insurance Agency<br />

3424 18th Ave., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 786-4407<br />

ehs1919@netexpress.net<br />

INVITATIONS &<br />

STATIONERY<br />

Beardsley Printery Inc.<br />

1103 51st Ave., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 788-4041<br />

beardsleyprintery@mchsi.com<br />

Model Printers<br />

310 15th St., Moline, IL<br />

(309) 764-2221<br />

www.modelprintersqc.com<br />

See our ad on page 17<br />

JEWELERS<br />

Inspiredesign Jewelry<br />

& Repair<br />

1815 24th St., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 788-4367<br />

www.inspiredesignjewelry.com<br />

J.H. Revell Jewelers<br />

& Goldsmiths<br />

904 Middle Road, Bettendorf, IA<br />

(563) 359-8856<br />

www.jhrevell.com<br />

See our ad on page 9<br />

LIMOUSINES &<br />

DELUXE COACHES<br />

Johannes Bus Service Inc.<br />

115 31st Ave., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 788-7932<br />

104 S.E. 11th Ave., Aledo, IL<br />

(309) 582-2922<br />

www.johannesbus.com<br />

See our ad on page 5<br />

The Rock Party Bus<br />

302 1st St., Coal Valley, IL<br />

(309) 799-ROCK (7625)<br />

www.rockreception.com<br />

See our ad on page 17<br />

LINENS<br />

The Linen Stop<br />

Linda Dany<br />

(309) 269-1269<br />

www.thelinenstop.com<br />

MOTHER OF THE<br />

BRIDE / FASHIONS<br />

Dillard’s<br />

NorthPark Mall, 320 W. Kimberly<br />

Road, Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 388-7954<br />

SouthPark Mall,<br />

4500 16th St., Moline, IL<br />

(309) 797-1866<br />

www.dillards.com<br />

See our ad on page 2<br />

PICTURE FRAMING /<br />

SHADOW BOXES<br />

The Miter Joint<br />

Custom Framing<br />

701 17th Ave., East Moline, IL<br />

(309) 755-9373<br />

www.themiterjoint.com<br />

RENTAL SERVICES<br />

Cy’s Rental Party<br />

& Banquet Needs<br />

312 E. Locust St., Davenport, IA<br />

(563) 324-1307<br />

K&K True Value Hardware<br />

1818 Grant St., Bettendorf, IA<br />

(563) 359-4474<br />

www.kkhardware.com<br />

TRAVEL AGENCIES<br />

Picture Perfect Travel<br />

1315 30th St., Rock Island, IL<br />

(309) 788-0500<br />

www.pictureperfecttravelqc.com<br />

WEDDING<br />

CONSULTANT<br />

Epiphany Events<br />

(309) 644-9822<br />

www.epipeventsllc.com<br />

Bride and groom: Ali McGinnis and<br />

James Brooks, East Moline.<br />

Wedding date: Oct. 15, 2011.<br />

Where we got married: Broadway<br />

Presbyterian Church, Rock Island.<br />

Where we had our reception: Jumer’s<br />

Casino & Hotel, Rock Island.<br />

What our cake was like: We had<br />

several different types of cheesecake.<br />

They came with the buffet. We also<br />

had a traditional wedding cake with<br />

plum calla lilies adorning it, threetiered<br />

with ivory buttercream frosting<br />

and a moist spice cake inside.<br />

What my gown was like: It was an<br />

ivory strapless sweetheart neckline<br />

with a beaded metallic lace bodice,<br />

pick-up ballgown with a chapel train.<br />

Song for our first dance:<br />

“All My Life” by K-Ci & JoJo.<br />

Most humorous moment: Probably<br />

the garter excavation and toss, James<br />

was lost under layers of my dress and<br />

he kept saying, “It’s really hot in here!”<br />

He was grabbing for the wrong garter,<br />

so I kept saying, “Grab the one without<br />

the lace!” When he finally surfaced, he<br />

was pretty sweaty and we were both<br />

laughing so hard! I felt like he’d been<br />

under my dress for an hour!<br />

The most unusual thing about our<br />

wedding: My sister and her family<br />

are overseas so my nephews did a recorded<br />

reading of I Corinthians 13:4-7<br />

that we broadcast over a projection<br />

screen. I cried like a baby.<br />

<strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>® • 13


Living in a<br />

14 • <strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>®


MATERIAL<br />

world<br />

By Nola Sarkisian-Miller, CTW Features<br />

Everybody knows that strapless gowns are the favored silhouettes of brides. But, what about<br />

the fabric of the gown Should brides opt for something like a heavy duchess satin, which<br />

lends itself well to beading, or a silk tulle for an incredible fairy tale ball gown<br />

Presently, bridal designers are thinking about the lightness of being. Sheerer staples like chiffon,<br />

crepe back satin, silk tulle and charmeuse are some popular fabrics at New York-based Sarah Jassir,<br />

used in gowns such as the silk crepe back satin dress with lace trim or silk taffeta ball gown in tulle<br />

and lace. Romantic embroidered lace and silk embellished with metallic lace for a bit of sheen are<br />

key in the collection by Los Angeles-based designer Tadashi Shoji. And, textured organzas and cotton<br />

voiles are favorites of designer Hayley Paige, the new designer behind JLM Couture’s Blush line.<br />

“The airy and gauze-like qualities cater to my favorite type of fabric manipulations,” Paige says.<br />

“It’s a form of happy drama and tangibility.”<br />

For the noninitiated, sifting through fabric choices can sound daunting. A number of factors<br />

can help brides whittle down the fabric list.<br />

Think about all the activities you will do at the wedding — dancing, eating, drinking and more<br />

— Jassir says.<br />

Pick a fabric that reflects your venue. A formal event typically calls for something grand, such<br />

as a ball gown or mermaid silhouette, created out of silk tulle, says Shoji. Fluid silk chiffon gowns<br />

are ideal for beach affairs.<br />

Search for a fabric that reflects your personality, says bridal<br />

Search for a<br />

fabric that<br />

reflects your<br />

personality.<br />

Here, designers open up about their go-to textiles and<br />

which styles of gowns they work best for.<br />

designer Heidi Elnora. It doesn’t hurt if it also flatters your body.<br />

For instance, silk chiffon moves with the body, and sturdier<br />

fabrics, such as taffeta, won’t cling to your bottom half.<br />

If necessary, Paige says to “embrace your inner Carrie<br />

Bradshaw and pull inspiration from your own closet!”<br />

Notice the fabrics of your favorite cocktail dress or visit the<br />

eveningwear section of a department store to try on some<br />

gowns and get a better feel of what fabrics imbue you with<br />

confidence. Here’s a cheat sheet to all your fabric options:<br />

<strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>® • 15


Silks<br />

• Silk duchesse satin: This<br />

heavier fabric exudes luxury with<br />

a sheen and richness. Its structural<br />

stability makes it a great canvas for<br />

designer ornamentation.<br />

• Silk charmeuse: Renowned<br />

for its drape, durability and shine,<br />

A fabric can<br />

make a specific<br />

silhouette sing.<br />

silk charmeuse is a fabric that<br />

feels like heaven to brides with<br />

its smooth, free-flowing texture.<br />

Great for sheaths, this gown<br />

creates an elegant silhouette and<br />

emphasizes the curves of the body.<br />

• Silk dupioni: A lustrous fabric,<br />

crisp to the touch with a nubby<br />

texture. It comes in medium- to<br />

heavy-weight and doesn’t wrinkle,<br />

which it makes it great for a free-flowing gown.<br />

• Silk taffeta: This flat fabric rustles as it<br />

moves and is instrumental in creating fullerbodied<br />

gowns.<br />

Sheers<br />

• Chiffon: With a see-through quality,<br />

this elegant fabric gives with a slight stretch<br />

and crepe-like texture. Available in silk and<br />

polyester, chiffon can keep brides warm or<br />

cool with its absorbency and ability to keep<br />

temperatures at bay.<br />

• Organza: Lightweight and sheer, this<br />

fabric is a workhorse both in silk and polyester.<br />

Its stiffness lends itself to great architectural<br />

styles and provides interest as a layering piece.<br />

• Tulle: This lightweight fabric, made from<br />

silk, nylon or rayon, is often starched for<br />

stiffness. Soft and airy, tulle is great for layering<br />

for a voluminous effect without the weight.<br />

Laces<br />

• Alençon: A French needlepoint with a<br />

floral design on a sheer net background. Its<br />

light, delicate appearance belies its strength.<br />

• Chantilly: A lighter lace on a mesh<br />

background usually done in<br />

elaborate floral patterns and<br />

outlined in heavy silky thread.<br />

As beautiful and plush as these<br />

fabrics are, designers know they<br />

can be temperamental and require<br />

the deftest of hands when used to<br />

create their masterpieces.<br />

Elnora, a “Project Runway”<br />

alum based out of Birmingham,<br />

Ala., loves working with organza<br />

for its movement and raw silk<br />

for its natural texture. On the<br />

downside, she says, silk organza<br />

can wrinkle easily, and if it’s held<br />

too close to a steamer, it can<br />

singe. Also, the slubs in raw silk<br />

can provide an uneven surface.<br />

Working with chiffon is like<br />

working with a rose for its pros<br />

and cons, says Jassir.<br />

“It’s one of the most beautiful<br />

fabrics, because it moves with<br />

the body,” she says. “However,<br />

chiffon is also one of the hardest<br />

fabrics to work with because it’s so<br />

delicate and fragile.”<br />

A fabric can make a specific<br />

silhouette sing. Elnora suggests buying a<br />

sheath in chiffon or allover lace for a romantic<br />

effect. Body-conscious styles, such as the<br />

mermaid silhouette, take to silk taffeta, Shoji<br />

says, while he prefers to use silk crepe or<br />

embroidered lace in his slip gowns.<br />

Page 14: Ivory tulle sculpted strapless gown with draped<br />

bodice and shirred skirt, with black beaded grosgrain and<br />

organdy ribbon sash with brooch details from Watters Brides.<br />

Page 15: Ivory washed silk organza layered raw-edge bias-cut<br />

A-line skirt with Vanilla Bean double-faced satin sash from<br />

Watters Brides. Page 16: Italian alençon lace jacket over an<br />

off-white raw silk gathered full ball gown with scoop neck<br />

from Heidi Elnora.<br />

Bride and groom: Nicole Pulford and<br />

Lance Wubbena, Moline.<br />

Wedding date: May 16, 2012.<br />

Where we got married: Sunset Beach,<br />

Treasure Island, Florida.<br />

Where we had our reception: The<br />

Hurricane Restaurant, Florida.<br />

What our cake was like: It was<br />

chocolate with buttercream frosting<br />

and decorated with seashells that we<br />

picked out from a shell shop.<br />

What my gown was like: It was a<br />

simple dress because we were getting<br />

married on the beach.<br />

Most humorous moment: It was raining.<br />

My dad was carrying an umbrella<br />

to try and keep me dry. I was always<br />

about a mile ahead of him as he was<br />

chasing me with the umbrella.<br />

Gifts for bridesmaids and<br />

groomsmen: Beach-related gifts.<br />

The most unusual thing about our<br />

wedding: Gulf Beach Weddings<br />

provided a lot of extras that they didn’t<br />

have to.<br />

My tip for brides to be: You should<br />

have your wedding wherever you<br />

choose, regardless of what everyone<br />

else wants. It is your day.<br />

16 • <strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>®


‘The One’<br />

Make your search for<br />

THE dress a success<br />

By Anna Sachse, CTW Features<br />

The process of trying on multiple<br />

wedding dresses in the quest<br />

of “The One” can be, well,<br />

incredibly trying.<br />

To ensure your appointments<br />

are smooth sailing, check out these<br />

10 practical pointers from wedding<br />

gown designer Elizabeth Dye, who<br />

owns the Portland, Ore.-based<br />

bridal boutique The English Dept.<br />

1. Saturdays are by far the busiest day at any shop, so visit on a<br />

weekday. You’ll also get the most attention from the staff who can<br />

help you through what can be a bewildering process.<br />

2. It’s better to only bring along one or two advisers when you try on<br />

dresses, especially on the first round. Large groups can be distracting.<br />

3. Choose your advisers wisely. Whom in your life do you truly trust<br />

Who puts you at ease and makes you feel good about yourself The<br />

important thing is that you feel supported through the experience.<br />

4. You’ve been dressing yourself for years. Think about what you<br />

already have in your closet that fits and flatters you. Consider<br />

overall shape, necklines and fabrics. These can be good reference<br />

points when you start shopping.<br />

5. Many brides have weight or fitness goals they want to achieve<br />

before shopping for a wedding dress. It’s understandable, but don’t<br />

put so much pressure on yourself that you run out the clock before<br />

your event. Select a dress with a design and size that looks good on<br />

you now. It will look even better on you in a few months.<br />

6. Keep your mind open to trying on dresses other than those that<br />

immediately attract you. Brides are often surprised to find that<br />

“The One” is a dress they hadn’t originally considered.<br />

7. A dress can look gorgeous in a magazine, but what’s important<br />

is how it looks on you. Put yourself in the qualified hands of the<br />

boutique and the alterations seamstress. The dress that works well<br />

with your body is the right dress.<br />

8. Travel light. Many wedding dresses are made from delicate silks,<br />

which can be damaged by jewelry and makeup.<br />

9. What to bring: Simple nude undergarments are appropriate for<br />

trying on most dresses. A pair of shoes with the heel height you<br />

intend to wear can also be helpful.<br />

10. Save the Champagne for after you try on dresses — it’s good to<br />

have a clear head for such an important purchase. Save the hearty<br />

celebration for after you’ve found your dream dress!<br />

FLY AWAY<br />

to the honeymoon<br />

of your dreams.<br />

Call your travel agent or the airline for airfares and packages.<br />

WEDDING INVITATIONS g PROGRAMS<br />

Thank You Notes g Napkins<br />

310 - 15th Street, Moline<br />

(309) 764-2221<br />

g THERMOGRAPHY<br />

g ENGRAVED<br />

g POCKETS<br />

g SEAL ’N SEND<br />

22%<br />

DISCOUNT<br />

Shower & Anniversary Invitations<br />

on<br />

Wedding<br />

Invitation<br />

Order<br />

from catalogs<br />

THE PREMIERE PARTY FACILITY<br />

BANQUETS • CATERING • PARTY BUS • RECEPTIONS • WEDDINGS<br />

SINCE 1999<br />

www.rocreception.com<br />

• In-House Catering • Personalized Service • Seating up to 400<br />

• Outdoor Weddings • Corporate Functions • Full-Service Bar<br />

• Private Parties<br />

• Ample Parking In Lighted Lot • Rental Items Available<br />

• Offsite Catering Available • Party Bus for Rent<br />

• 20' x 30' Dance Floor<br />

“The Rock” Facility & Our Personnel Are Here To Help Make Your Event A Special One.<br />

302 First Street, Coal Valley, Illinois 61240 • (309) 799-ROCK (7625)<br />

www.rockreception.com<br />

<strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>® • 17


State of groomswear<br />

When to buy, what’s worthy of renting, and how<br />

to make a less conventional look work<br />

By Anna Sachse, CTW Features<br />

To rent or to buy That is the question. For both groom and<br />

groomsmen, rented formalwear tends to be characterized as “stylechallenged”<br />

at best, while purchasing a suit or tuxedo can be pricey<br />

and impractical. (When will you wear a tux again)<br />

According to TheKnot.com and WeddingChannel.com’s 2011 Real<br />

Weddings Study, grooms spend an average of $197 on their weddingday<br />

attire, and groomsmen spend an average of $139. (Both stats<br />

represent an average of those who purchase or rent either a suit or a<br />

tuxedo.) Although the study found that the number of men who wear<br />

a purchased suit is on the rise, the majority still don a tux (64 percent of<br />

grooms and 63 percent of groomsmen), and most opt to rent.<br />

If you attend three or four formal events per year, buying a tuxedo<br />

may be a worthwhile, always-in-style investment, says Jennie Ma,<br />

fashion editor for TheKnot.com. “But if you’d rather slather your body<br />

in hot tar than hit a black-tie benefit, go for the tux rental. It’s definitely<br />

the easiest, cheapest option.”<br />

Tuxedo rentals also are beneficial in terms of coordinating a<br />

consistent silhouette and hue (i.e. avoiding five shades of gray, black<br />

or blue) among the wedding party, note both Steve Davis, president<br />

and COO of Jim’s Formal Wear, and Craig Williams, vice president of<br />

formalwear merchandising at Men’s Wearhouse. And thanks to new<br />

fashion-forward styles that have recently hit the market, these days<br />

your matching men can look more chic red carpet than bad ’80s prom.<br />

“Many couples are choosing some of our slimmer-fit tuxedo and<br />

accessory options, like the Genesis tuxedo by Tony Bowls (one button,<br />

single breasted, side vented), flat-front trousers, and our new fitted<br />

microfiber shirt,” Davis says. “In addition, gray tuxedo styles are<br />

incredibly popular this wedding season.”<br />

Planning an unconventional and/or casual affair with no suits<br />

or tuxedos You’re definitely in the minority. According to the<br />

Real Weddings Study, only 4 percent of grooms and 7 percent of<br />

groomsmen wear casual shirts and pants (think destination beach<br />

wedding), and 2 percent of grooms and 4 percent of groomsmen wear<br />

just a jacket and tie with pants.<br />

But just because these options are less common doesn’t mean they are<br />

not the right fit for your fete. “Our advice is that anything you want the<br />

men to wear works, as long as it matches to a certain extent,” Ma says.<br />

Bride and groom: Kristin Peterson<br />

and John Burns, Le Mars, Iowa.<br />

Wedding date: Sept. 24, 2011.<br />

Where we got married: Augustana<br />

Lutheran Church, Andover, Ill.<br />

Where we had our reception: Stoney<br />

Creek Inn, Moline.<br />

What our cake was like: Our cake was<br />

seven tiers; white and chocolate flavors<br />

alternating. Our colors were navy<br />

blue and pink so we incorporated a<br />

navy-blue ribbon on every other layer<br />

with silver-stringed pearls accented<br />

along the ribbon. All of the frosting<br />

with white buttercream — it was so<br />

delicious! Our topper was our initial<br />

“B” and there were pink rose petals<br />

scattered on top of the cake.<br />

What my gown was like: I wore a drop<br />

waist, A-line, Chantilly lace strapless<br />

gown with a swoop/sweetheart neckline.<br />

There was a satin ribbon that ran<br />

under the bust and a handmade flower<br />

with some rhinestones that was pinned<br />

to my left side on the ribbon to add a<br />

simple, modern pop to the dress.<br />

Song for our first dance: “It Is You<br />

(I Have Loved)” by Dana Glover.<br />

The most unusual thing about our<br />

wedding: In my small town, it’s a tradition<br />

to graffiti paint an old barn in town<br />

for special events. The night before<br />

our wedding, our wedding party spent<br />

hours painting this old barn in honor<br />

of our wedding with our names, date<br />

and everyone involved. We loved it!<br />

18 • <strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>®


Food and drink: Serve it up<br />

with style<br />

By Anna Sachse, CTW Features<br />

Whether it’s trays of fun gourmet sliders,<br />

a chic sushi station, or elegant plates of<br />

Kobe beef, the meal you serve at your wedding<br />

sets the tone for the entire celebration. The<br />

key component of your reception, it deserves<br />

a caterer whose professionalism, style and, of<br />

course, cuisine reigns supreme.<br />

PROPER PREP<br />

According to TheWeddingReport.com, the majority of couples both<br />

research and book their caterer six to 12 months prior to the main<br />

event — that is, if the caterer isn’t a package deal with your venue.<br />

You’ll ideally want to meet with a few of your favorite options and<br />

ask a lot of questions, says Sharon Naylor, author of “1001 Ways to<br />

Save Money and Still Have a Dazzling Wedding, 3rd Edition” (McGraw-<br />

Hill, 2008). How creative can they get within your budget Are they<br />

open to modifying their standard menus with special recipes Can they<br />

provide variety for folks who eat vegetarian or gluten-free<br />

Once you’ve made your decision, Naylor recommends scheduling a<br />

tasting that includes appetizers and different sauces that can be used to<br />

dress up less pricey entrées.<br />

Speaking of financial planning, dinner and drinks typically are your<br />

biggest expenses. But, says Brooke Sheldon, owner of Lilybrooke Events<br />

in Kennebunkport, Maine, the cost can vary widely depending on the<br />

city, menu and wedding size. “A plated dinner involves more staff, but<br />

a buffet requires more food because the caterer can’t control portion<br />

sizes,” Sheldon says.<br />

We offer complete bridal service packages<br />

for the bride and her wedding party.<br />

Two Great Locations!<br />

Rock Valley Plaza | 4102 Blackhawk Rd. Rock Island, IL<br />

309-786-7090 | www.johntaylordayspa.com<br />

Jumer’s Casino and Hotel | 777 Jumer Dr. Rock Island, IL<br />

309-756-4696 | www.jumerscasinohotel.com<br />

Only local in-stock<br />

tuxedo store!<br />

Free invitations<br />

No sales tax on rentals<br />

FORMAL WEAR<br />

www.duckysformalwear.com<br />

1534 River Dr., Moline<br />

309 797-9TUX<br />

FOODIE FABULOUS<br />

Sheldon suggests incorporating foods that mean something to you<br />

— from your heritage, places you’ve visited or local favorites. “Just<br />

make sure your caterer is comfortable with the new recipes, and willing<br />

to practice and perfect them.”<br />

Another continuing trend is classic or comfort foods served in<br />

unique ways, such as a mac and cheese or mashed-potato station<br />

with gourmet add-ons like truffle oil, mushrooms, bacon and lobster.<br />

“Stations are growing more and more popular, since the variety appeals<br />

to a large number of guests’ particular tastes,” Naylor says.<br />

GOOD LIBATIONS<br />

A full open bar can cost a pretty penny, but, luckily, there are lots of<br />

ways to stay within your budget that still have plenty of flair.<br />

First off, you can limit the offerings to wine and beer only. If you<br />

have tasty labels that are produced locally, guests will feel like they’re<br />

partaking in a unique treat. Microbrews in cans have lots of character<br />

and typically are less expensive than bottles, and kegs are a costeffective<br />

choice for weddings that have more than 150 guests. Skip<br />

the expensive champagne and substitute a more affordable Italian<br />

prosecco, Spanish cava or California sparkling wine for the toast.<br />

<strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>® • 19


Simple and<br />

slightly perfect<br />

These cakes eschew the showy details and<br />

put flavorful cake front and center<br />

By Anna Sachse, CTW Features<br />

Sure, towering tiers of woven fondant blooming with hand-formed<br />

sugar flowers and topped with a chocolate diorama of the city<br />

where you live make for quite a spectacle, but they can also take up a<br />

sizeable portion of your wedding budget. Instead, consider opting for<br />

a simple or “rustic chic” design and make the actual cake — what’s<br />

inside — the star of your big-day dessert.<br />

DESIGN WITHIN REACH<br />

A simple design doesn’t mean you have to forfeit character or style<br />

— it just means making smart choices. If you want to make a bold<br />

statement, for example, pass on the expensive techniques like detailed<br />

piping or elaborate monograms and look to color, suggests Sally<br />

Kilbridge, deputy editor of Brides magazine. “A brilliant orange cake<br />

with simple white stripes would be stunning.”<br />

But for a more rustic feel, fresh flowers are a perfect fit and will be<br />

less expensive than sugar, gum-paste or marzipan versions, Kilbridge<br />

adds. Oversized blossoms or branches with tiny buds look especially<br />

chic, but whatever you choose, ask your florist first to be sure your flora<br />

is nontoxic and pesticide-free. Other sweet decorative options include<br />

fresh fruit (such as berries, champagne grapes, miniature pears, plums or<br />

apricots) arranged around tiers enrobed in a softly-rough cream cheese<br />

frosting that evokes tree bark.<br />

You also can opt to forgo the icing altogether and simply showcase<br />

the colorful layers of cake and filling like the famous frosting-free tiers<br />

from Momofuku’s Milk Bar in New York City. Marilyn DeVault, owner<br />

of Portland, Ore.-based Piece of Cake Bakery, has done an elegant<br />

version topped with fresh strawberries swirled in white chocolate.<br />

Can’t imagine cake without frosting but still want your wedding<br />

sweets to be unique DeVault recommends playing around with size<br />

When Details Matter To You...<br />

Get Personal Attention.<br />

• Outdoor Ceremonies<br />

• Receptions Up to 350<br />

• Wedding Coordinator<br />

• Meet with your Chef to personalize your menu<br />

• Gorgeous Classic Country Club Setting<br />

Book Your Wedding Hotel<br />

Room Block With Us!<br />

When 10 rooms or more are booked,<br />

the bridal suite is complimentary!<br />

Free gift<br />

for Brides!<br />

Call for details.<br />

• Convenient location • Pool & Hot Tub<br />

• Complimentary Breakfast • Non-Smoking Hotel<br />

2705 48th Ave., Moline • 309-762-9083<br />

Short Hills Country Club<br />

2500 11th St., East Moline, IL<br />

755-0618 • www.shorthillscc.com<br />

Love is in the Air<br />

20 • <strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>®


— consider a spread of three single-tier cakes in your favorite flavors, a<br />

smaller two-tier cake paired with luscious fruit pies, or a simple threetier<br />

cake that looks grand thanks to risers that augment the height. Or<br />

you can just concentrate on decorating the table on which your simple<br />

cake sits, suggests Kara Buntin, owner of Richmond, Va.-based A Cake<br />

to Remember.<br />

IMPECCABLE TASTE<br />

No matter how much your cake costs, you’re wasting your money<br />

if it doesn’t taste good — all you’ve done is pay for a lot of cake that<br />

nobody wants to eat, Buntin says.<br />

To prevent a flavor fiasco, Buntin advises asking bakers if they use<br />

“preweighed dry ingredients” (i.e. a cake mix) and if they make their<br />

own fillings and buttercream. “Premade components are usually more<br />

chemical than natural, and the taste reflects that.” In addition, she<br />

recommends asking background questions, such as how many years of<br />

experience the baker has, and if they will bake and decorate the cake<br />

themselves or if a staff person will handle it.<br />

You’ll also want to ask about what flavors they offer and whether or<br />

not they can accommodate special dietary needs. Piece of Cake Bakery,<br />

for example, specializes in gourmet vegan, wheat-free, gluten-free, and<br />

sugar-free wedding cakes that come in flavors that are just as tasty and<br />

varied as “normal” cakes.<br />

Of course, tastings are a helpful (and fun!) way to find more<br />

Stunning Bride, Stunning Dress,<br />

Stunning Smile<br />

by Dr. Todd Schommer<br />

A Brilliant Gift for the<br />

Bride & Groom<br />

Purchase A Couples Package For<br />

$300.00<br />

1 Free Whitening with purchase of 1 regular priced whitening.<br />

(Coupon value $300)<br />

Wedding Party Members receive $100<br />

off your individual whitenings.<br />

(Moms & Dads, you can use this coupon too!)<br />

Offer expires 12/31/<strong>2013</strong><br />

Todd M. Schommer, DDS<br />

2010 East 38th St.,Davenport, IA<br />

563-355-5177<br />

schommerdental.com<br />

interesting flavor profiles<br />

and the most delicious<br />

cake, but there may be<br />

a fee involved, warns<br />

Kilbridge. As an alternative,<br />

she suggests selecting a<br />

bakery that you already<br />

love — chances are the<br />

cake will taste fantastic.<br />

BUDGET BASICS<br />

If budget is a concern of yours, keep in mind that buttercream is<br />

typically less expensive than fondant because it requires less work, says<br />

Kilbridge. “Just be sure the cake stays refrigerated until it’s time to cut<br />

it, as a melted cake isn’t a bargain at any price.”<br />

You’ll also want to note that while most bakers will charge more for<br />

liqueurs, additional fillings, fancy techniques and off-the-menu flavors,<br />

some will actually charge extra for every change to a yellow cake batter<br />

or anything other than basic border piping, Buntin says. She advises<br />

shopping around and warns against ordering too much — you only<br />

need servings for about 80 percent of your guests, as some folks don’t<br />

eat cake and others will leave before it’s cut. “But the best thing you<br />

can do is tell a baker what your budget is and ask what they can do to<br />

help you stay within it.”<br />

<strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>® • 21


<strong>Bridal</strong> checklist<br />

NINE TO 12 MONTHS<br />

BEFORE THE WEDDING<br />

m Set a budget. Decide how<br />

expenses will be split between<br />

parents and bride and groom.<br />

m Determine the type of<br />

wedding you want —<br />

formality, setting, etc.<br />

m Determine number of guests.<br />

m Select a date and time for<br />

your wedding.<br />

m Check with your officiant<br />

to learn of any premarital<br />

requirements, and book<br />

a date and time for the<br />

wedding and rehearsal.<br />

m Book reception location.<br />

(Note: This should be done as<br />

soon as the date is set.)<br />

m Choose wedding consultant.<br />

m Select and hire caterer.<br />

m Select and hire photographer/<br />

videographer.<br />

m Select and hire reception<br />

entertainment.<br />

m Decide on your color scheme.<br />

m Select wedding attendants.<br />

m Start shopping for your dress<br />

and headpiece.<br />

m Start shopping for<br />

bridesmaids’ dresses.<br />

m Select a travel agent and start<br />

planning for your honeymoon.<br />

m Discuss where you will live<br />

after the wedding.<br />

SIX TO NINE MONTHS<br />

BEFORE THE WEDDING<br />

m Announce your engagement<br />

in the newspaper.<br />

m Register at the bridal registries<br />

of your choice.<br />

m Keep records of gifts received<br />

and send thank-you notes<br />

immediately upon receipt.<br />

m Select florist, balloonist and/<br />

or ice sculpture, and discuss<br />

color schemes and designs.<br />

m Begin shopping for men’s<br />

wedding attire.<br />

m Reserve rental supplies for<br />

ceremony and reception.<br />

m Choose music and musicians/<br />

soloists for the ceremony<br />

and reception.<br />

m Order your dress and<br />

headpiece.<br />

FOUR TO SIX MONTHS<br />

BEFORE THE WEDDING<br />

m Order invitations and<br />

other stationery, such as<br />

thank-you cards.<br />

m Finalize your guest list.<br />

m Collect names and addresses<br />

of your guests.<br />

m Help both mothers coordinate<br />

and choose their dresses.<br />

m Apply for passports, if<br />

required for your honeymoon<br />

destination.<br />

m Experiment with hairstyle<br />

and cut.<br />

m Choose baker and order<br />

wedding cake, groom’s cake<br />

and mints.<br />

m Order the favors.<br />

m Choose and hire<br />

transportation for the<br />

wedding day.<br />

m Select and order bridesmaids’<br />

dresses and accessories.<br />

TWO TO THREE MONTHS<br />

BEFORE THE WEDDING<br />

m Choose the men’s attire and<br />

reserve the correct sizes.<br />

m Finalize reception menu,<br />

including beverages.<br />

m Draw a map to direct<br />

guests to the ceremony and<br />

reception sites if necessary.<br />

m Address invitations. Mail<br />

invitations (with maps<br />

included) six weeks before<br />

the wedding.<br />

m Purchase accessories such<br />

as toasting goblets, cake<br />

knives and servers, ring<br />

pillow, garter, candle, etc.<br />

Make arrangements for any<br />

engraving desired.<br />

m Confirm all details with<br />

your hired professionals<br />

and officiant.<br />

m Plan rehearsal details.<br />

m Arrange rehearsal dinner.<br />

m Reserve beverage caterer for<br />

the reception.<br />

m Choose person to attend your<br />

guest book.<br />

m Make appointment with your<br />

hairdresser and makeup artist.<br />

m Book a block of rooms at a<br />

nearby hotel for out-of-town<br />

attendants and guests.<br />

m Finalize honeymoon plans.<br />

m Reserve a room for your<br />

wedding night.<br />

m Shop with your fiancé for<br />

wedding rings.<br />

m Start shopping for trousseau.<br />

m Check blood-test and<br />

marriage-license requirements<br />

for the state in which your<br />

wedding will take place.<br />

ONE MONTH BEFORE<br />

THE WEDDING<br />

m Obtain blood test (if required)<br />

and marriage license.<br />

m Begin alterations on bridal<br />

gown and attendants’ dresses.<br />

m Have formal bridal portrait done.<br />

m Purchase gifts for wedding<br />

participants and arrange for<br />

any desired engraving.<br />

m Purchase gift for fiancé.<br />

m Finish shopping for your<br />

trousseau.<br />

m Ensure that your accessories<br />

(toasting goblets, garter,<br />

candles, ring pillow, etc.) are<br />

in order.<br />

m Confirm details with<br />

beverage caterer.<br />

m Confirm rental supply details.<br />

m Experiment with makeup.<br />

TWO WEEKS BEFORE<br />

THE WEDDING<br />

m Address announcements to be<br />

mailed on your wedding day.<br />

m Contact guests who have<br />

not responded.<br />

m Pick up the wedding rings and<br />

make sure they fit correctly.<br />

Check that they are engraved.<br />

m Meet with your photographer<br />

and provide a list of special<br />

pictures you want taken.<br />

m Meet with the entertainer and<br />

provide a list of the music to<br />

be played during events such<br />

as bouquet tossing, dollar<br />

dance, etc.<br />

Bride and groom: Natalee Nilsson and<br />

Michael Fulton, Eldridge, Iowa.<br />

Wedding date: June 30, 2012.<br />

Where we got married: Grace United<br />

Methodist Church, Geneseo.<br />

Where we had our reception: QC Waterfront<br />

Convention Center, Bettendorf.<br />

What my gown was like: My dress was<br />

a shimmer satin gown in diamond<br />

white featuring a heavily beaded,<br />

dropped bodice, lace-up back and<br />

a full semi-cathedral train with soft<br />

pickups. Swarovski crystals adorned<br />

the motif at the hip. My veil was<br />

cathedral length with jewels on it.<br />

Song for our first dance: “I’m Yours”<br />

by Jason Mraz.<br />

Most humorous moment: Our photographer<br />

had us taking silly pictures<br />

moving from side to side. During this,<br />

one of my bridesmaids tripped and fell<br />

down taking a groomsman with her<br />

after accidentally punching him in the<br />

face. All of this was caught on camera!<br />

We had a photobooth at our reception,<br />

and I have never seen so many of our<br />

guests acting so silly. It brought out<br />

quite a different side in many people!<br />

The most unusual thing about our wedding:<br />

My father was slightly disappointed<br />

that he was not going to wear a brightly<br />

colored vest or tie like the rest of our<br />

wedding party. So he surprised every one<br />

with bright-orange socks and red shoes!<br />

He wore red high-top sneakers to his<br />

wedding 33 years ago! I loved it!!<br />

22 • <strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>®


m Continue writing thank-you<br />

notes for gifts.<br />

m Confirm rehearsal-dinner<br />

details.<br />

m Create a calendar of events<br />

for your wedding day.<br />

ONE WEEK BEFORE<br />

THE WEDDING<br />

m Provide the caterer with the<br />

total guest count and verify<br />

all details.<br />

m Give your wedding party<br />

timetables for the rehearsal<br />

dinner, ceremony and<br />

reception.<br />

m Confirm details on last-minute<br />

arrangements and timetables<br />

with all service companies.<br />

m Plan seating arrangements.<br />

m Confirm all honeymoon<br />

reservations, and pick up<br />

tickets if necessary.<br />

m Discuss reception details with<br />

your host and hostess.<br />

m Assign tasks to be done on<br />

the wedding day to your<br />

attendants.<br />

m Verify that you have your<br />

marriage license.<br />

m Pick up wedding attire from<br />

seamstress and make sure<br />

everything fits properly.<br />

m Drop off wedding attire to be<br />

steamed and pressed.<br />

m Continue writing thank-you<br />

notes for gifts.<br />

m Pack for your honeymoon.<br />

m Rehearse the wedding<br />

ceremony with all participants.<br />

m Enjoy rehearsal dinner.<br />

m Confirm details of transportation<br />

for wedding day.<br />

m Give the best man the<br />

officiant’s fee and tell him<br />

to deliver it on the day of<br />

the wedding.<br />

m Get a good night’s sleep the<br />

night before your big day.<br />

ON THE WEDDING DAY<br />

m Try to remain calm and enjoy<br />

your wedding.<br />

m Remember to bring the<br />

wedding rings and your<br />

marriage license.<br />

m Check with florist to ensure<br />

that flowers will be delivered<br />

on time.<br />

m If pictures will be taken<br />

before the ceremony, the<br />

wedding party should be<br />

ready about two hours before<br />

the ceremony.<br />

m Mail the wedding<br />

announcements.<br />

m Groom’s parents should be<br />

seated five minutes before the<br />

ceremony begins.<br />

m The bride’s mother should be<br />

seated immediately before the<br />

processional, before the aisle<br />

runner is rolled out.<br />

AFTER THE WEDDING<br />

m Write and mail thank-you<br />

notes as soon as possible.<br />

m Conduct business, banking,<br />

insurance and legal affairs<br />

(change name if necessary on<br />

records and legal documents)<br />

as soon as possible.<br />

m Have gown professionally<br />

cleaned and preserved.<br />

The bridal emergency kit<br />

By Anna Sachse, CTW Features<br />

You’ve scoured everything from Etsy<br />

to your town’s haute boutiques for<br />

the perfect little clutch to complement<br />

your big-day attire. Practical contents<br />

might include your cell phone, ID,<br />

credit card, lipstick or gloss, breath<br />

mints, hand sanitizer, a couple cute Band-Aids, and tissues for<br />

mopping up tears before they ruin your make-up. But you should also<br />

consider slipping in these expert-tested safeguards.<br />

+ Touch up concealer. “It’s an absolute essential in case of a sudden<br />

spot nightmare!” says Jemma Kidd, a makeup artist and creator of the<br />

Jemma Kidd Make Up School. For quick application, she advises using<br />

the pad of your finger to press concealer onto the skin with firm pats;<br />

then use a twisting motion to work it into the skin.<br />

+ Blotting tissues. The only shine you want during your wedding is<br />

your inner glow. Simply press tissues to shiny areas and remove.<br />

+ Double-sided tape. From smoothing wrinkles and eliminating gaps<br />

to preventing a peek-a-boo bra, it can be used on everything. Look for<br />

fashion or apparel tape, or, in a pinch, even Scotch tape will do.<br />

+ Safety pins. Use them to repair a tear, fix a broken bustle, or pin up<br />

a dress that keeps falling.<br />

+ Bobby pins. The perfect solution for securing a veil, taming stray<br />

hairs pre-ceremony, or securing your locks after a whole lot of dancing.<br />

+ Tide to Go Pen. Kidd recommends this tiny orange tube ideal for<br />

vaporizing unexpected food and drink stains.<br />

+ Wite-Out. Have a little bottle of this correction fluid on hand to<br />

cover up everything from grass stains to lipstick.<br />

+ Make-up sponge. Rub it briskly over unsightly deodorant smudges<br />

and watch them disappear.<br />

+ Sunscreen. Nothing is more unattractive than a sunburned bride, so<br />

if your I do’s are outdoors, it’s critical to apply (and reapply) your SPF.<br />

Bride and groom: Jenny Terronez and<br />

Robert Oleksy, Austin, Texas.<br />

Wedding date: Oct. 8, 2011.<br />

Where we got married: St. Hyacinth<br />

Basilica, Chicago.<br />

Where we had our reception: Casa<br />

Royale Banquets, Des Plaines, Ill.<br />

What our cake was like: Four-tiered,<br />

circle cake with ivory frosting and<br />

dark purple ribbon down the sides of<br />

the cake.<br />

What my gown was like: Ivory strapless<br />

trumpet gown with a sweetheart bodice<br />

and lace-charmeuse overlay.<br />

Song for our first dance: “When the<br />

Stars Go Blue” by The Corrs and Bono.<br />

Most humerous moment: Every time<br />

my maid of honor would adjust the<br />

back of my dress during the ceremony,<br />

the best man would adjust my<br />

husband’s pant legs!<br />

Gifts for bridesmaids and groomsmen:<br />

Bridesmaids were given monogrammed<br />

Vera Bradley cosmetic bags filled with<br />

lotion, lip gloss and hand sanitizer.<br />

Groomsmen were given monogrammedleather<br />

toiletry bags and flasks.<br />

Most unusual thing about our<br />

wedding: Our ceremony was recited<br />

in both English and Polish.<br />

My tip for brides to be: To enjoy every<br />

moment and to not lose sight of the<br />

end result, which is marrying the love<br />

of your life. Stay calm and be happy,<br />

the day will fly by, so try to remember<br />

and embrace every moment!<br />

<strong>2013</strong> QC i do • The Dispatch, The Rock Island Argus and <strong>Quad</strong>-<strong>Cities</strong> <strong>Online</strong>® • 23


Experience the Elegance<br />

of Oakwood Country Club<br />

Let us personally assist you in the planning<br />

of your special event in our elegant East Room<br />

Discounts available for booking<br />

one or more events with Us!<br />

Become a Clubhouse Member<br />

for a one time fee of $480 and Receive<br />

Free Room Rental. The Oakwood Staff is<br />

excited to include the following services<br />

at no additional cost:<br />

Linen tablecloths, napkins and skirting, china and<br />

silverware, cake cutting services, mirrors for your<br />

centerpieces, waitstaff and bartender services,<br />

including set-up and clean-up services &<br />

our staff is happy to assist with your decorations!<br />

Relax and enjoy your special day<br />

while we do the work for you!<br />

Outdoor<br />

Ceremonies<br />

Available!<br />

1067 U.S. Hwy 6 Coal Valley, IL • (309) 799-3153

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!