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WHAT TO DO BEFORE I DO<br />
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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 />
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it since you were a little girl.<br />
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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 />
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• Let your guests relax at the party – with their rooms<br />
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*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 />
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Choice of 2 meats<br />
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Dinner rolls & butter D.J. & more<br />
Visit: www.aprairielodge.com<br />
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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
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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 />
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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 />
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<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 />
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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 />
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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 />
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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
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