Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023
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Spring/Summer 2023
Bridal W rld
Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 1
EXTRAORDINARY
WEDDINGS
ROCK
HER
DON'T JUST HAPPEN,
THEY ARE S T A G E D .
WORLD.
Ask us about our upcoming Bridal & Wedding
discounts and get the ring she really wants.
JUNE BERRY MEDIA
R AMSDELLTHEATER.ORG sanbornsjewelers.com
231.398.9770 | 101 MAPLE ST. | MANISTEE, MI 49660
2 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 3
Wedding & engagement ring care
J ewelry is a key component of weddings. The fi-
nancial resource CreditDonkey notes that, in
the United States, the average amount spent on an
dish soap in a small bowl. Soak the rings for 20 to 30
minutes. Use a soft brush or cloth to clean the jewelry
of dirt. Rinse the residue under clean water.
es, moving furniture, gardening, or diving through
waves at the beach warrant caution; otherwise, you
risk damaging or making jewelry unnecessarily dirty.
engagement ring is $5,500. Jewelry costs can add Rings with diamonds can be treated similarly with Store the ring in a safe location until you can safely
up, especially when adding in the cost of wedding a mild soap-and-water solution. The Diamond Infor- wear it again.
bands, which can cost as much as $1,000 or more. mation Center also says to soak the diamond ring in One of the most important steps to safeguard wed-
“Fashion trends come and go and jewelry is also equal parts cold water and ammonia for half an hour ding and engagement rings is to insure the jewelry.
affected. Make her engagement ring timeless,” Vicki and let it air dry. Brand name jewelry cleaner also is The description of the ring, its cut, carat weight, met-
Drzik of Victoria’s Jewelry recommends. another good option. This method only should be al, and other information offered through a certified
10%
The cost of jewelry only underscores the impor- used with diamonds; ammonia can’t be used with independent jewelry appraisal will be needed to in-
MEDIA
tance of learning how to care for it and preserve its other gemstones. sure the ring. Take a close-up photo of the jewelry as
value. The best way to maintain jewelry depends on Maintaining jewelry also should include twice year- well. Other items like laser inscription or a home secu-
OFF
the makeup of the rings. The online jewelry guide ly visits to a jeweler who can check the prongs and rity system can qualify jewelry owners for discounts
Jewelry Notes says gold rings without gemstones can make sure the setting is not loose; otherwise, the di- on insurance. Consumers also can add a jewelry rider
be cleaned effectively with only soap and water. Sim- amond can become dislodged, according to Martha to a homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy.
ply prepare a solution of lukewarm water and mild
LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS | OCEANA’S HERALD-JOURNAL
Stewart Weddings.
| WHITE LAKE BEACON
These are some ways to care for wedding jewelry.
Avoid touching diamonds and other gemstones as Always consult with a jeweler before attempting to • GIA Graduate Gemologist and Appraiser
much as possible when putting rings on and taking clean items made of various materials.
• Jewelry repair and restoration expert
MEDIA
them off. “An engagement ring is usually the single most im-
Precious stones often are magnets for dust, dirt and portant piece of jewelry one purchases. Although it • Redesign and Custom Jeweler on site
body oil, according to Taylor Lanore, diamond consul-
tant and engagement ring designer for Lauren B. Fine
may not be the most expensive piece of jewelry she
will own in her lifetime, it will likely be the piece she
• Finely crafted heirloom quality jewelry
Jewelry and Diamonds. Grab the ring by the band. will wear for decades. Make it special! At Victoria’s in gold and platinum
LUDINGTON
Use discretion DAILY rings
when wearing NEWS | OCEANA’S
while engaging HERALD-JOURNAL | WHITE
Jewelry we have LAKE BEACON
the experience to work with you to • Flexible Private appointment scheduling
in hands-on activities. Activities like cleaning dish- create (and maintain) her perfect ring,” Drzik said.
COURTESY OF VICTORIA’S JEWELRY
• Showroom open April - December
published by
MEDIA
MEDIA
© kendrastanley-millsphotography
LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS
OCEANA’S HERALD-JOURNAL LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS
OCEANA’S HERALD-JOURNAL OPEN: Thursday, Friday & Saturday 11AM to 6PM
WHITE LAKE BEACON WHITE LAKE BEACON 103 W. Loomis Street, Ludington, MI 49431
www.shorelinemedia.net
231-425-9300
Publisher: Mike Hrycko Ludington Daily News
202 N Rath Ave.,
Sales: Monica Evans, Shelley Kovar,
original shoreline media Jan
logoThomas, Stacie Wagner,
Brad Johnson, Greg Cooke
P.O. Box 340,
Ludington, MI 49431
(if you would rather just have the three (231) 845-5181
Graphics: Judy Lytle, Julie Eilers, (231) 843-4011 fax
paper names added to that?) Robin Moline, Candy Bryant, Oceana’s Herald-Journal
Shanon McDowell 123 State Street,
PO Box 190,
News: David Bossick – Ludington Hart, MI 49420
Jeff Kiessel – Ludington (231) 873-5602
Amanda Dodge – Hart (231) 873-4775 fax
Andy Roberts – Whitehall
White Lake Beacon
231 737-7368 PO Box 98
Whitehall, MI 49461
kristin@redirental.com or brandi@redirental.com (231) 894-5356
(231) 894-2174 fax
© Copyright 2023 Shoreline Media
4 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPTIVATING CREATIONS PHOTOGRAPHY Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 5
From getting ready
Wedding party roles
P articipating in a wedding party is an honor.
Couples invite many people to their weddings,
and the select few asked to be in the party are typ-
hold the rings on the day of the ceremony. A best
man toast is common during the reception, and
some grooms ask their best men to distribute tips
ically those individuals with whom the couples to vendors at the end of the night.
shares a strong and special bond.
The role of the wedding party is not merely sym- BRIDESMAIDS
bolic. Though it’s up to the happy couple to deter- Bridesmaids often help the maid of honor plan the
mine how involved they want their wedding party bachelorette party, and they also help to organize
to be, individuals asked to be in the party should the bridal shower if the bride chooses to have one.
know that their acceptance of these roles carries Bridesmaids can offer input on wedding planning,
with it a certain level of responsibility. particularly if they’re already married, though that
is not necessarily required. Bridesmaids also can
help relieve stress on the bride by being as agree-
to a dreamy ceremony
able as possible when scheduling dress fittings.
GROOMSMEN
Groomsmen help to plan the bachelor party and
may be asked to provide some support prior to the
ceremony. For example, on the day of the wedding,
groomsmen may be asked to show guests, partic-
ularly elderly friends and family of the couple, to
inviting cocktail hour
their seats. Like their bridesmaid counterparts,
groomsmen can be especially helpful by doing
what’s asked of them without resistance. Arriv-
ing on time to tuxedo fittings and offering insight
when they think it might help are some simple ways
groomsmen can pitch in. romantic dinner
FLOWER GIRL/RING BEARER
Often reserved for children, the roles of flower
girls and ring bearers only require some simple par-
MAID OF HONOR ticipation during the ceremony. Flower girls drop
The maid of honor may bear the most responsi- petals as they precede down the aisle ahead of the
bility of any wedding party member. Maids of hon- wedding party, while the ringer bearer carries the
or typically help with the planning of the wedding, ring down the aisle. If these roles will be filled by
offering advice and opinions on everything from especially young children, couples may choose to
and dancing the night away
the bride’s gown to the bridesmaid dresses and have them walk down the aisle together.
anything else a couple might need help with. If the
bride asks, the maid of honor may be asked to orga- PARENTS OF THE COUPLE
nize dress fittings and attend them as well. A maid Parents of the bride and groom typically play sup-
of honor typically plays an active, and often the portive roles but may be asked to give speeches dur-
lead, role in planning the bachelorette party. Come ing the rehearsal dinner or the reception. The father of
the day of the wedding, the maid of honor helps the the bride typically walks her down the aisle, while
bride prepare and may organize the bridesmaids to the mother will likely spend the day of the ceremo-
ensure everyone stays on schedule. A maid of hon- ny at the bride’s side as they get ready. Parents of
We have the perfect space
or typically toasts the happy couple during the re- the groom do not have any traditional responsibili-
ception as well. ties, though the groom and his mother customarily
share a mother/son dance during the reception.
to make your special day
BEST MAN Couples need not feel compelled to assign bridal
Like the maid of honor, the best man has some party members these duties if they don’t feel com-
extra responsibilities before the wedding and dur- fortable doing so. However, sharing some of the re-
ing the festivities. A best man may organize tux fit-
tings, plan the bachelor party, help make arrange-
ments if the groom requests help, and be asked to
sponsibilities of wedding planning can help couples
enjoy the process more and keep party members
engaged
a dream come true! 231-830-7825
6 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 7
www.heritageweddingbarns.com
A guide to wedding day floral arrangements
V arious elements come together to complete a
wedding day visual. Floral arrangements are
one such component that can create a special and
CEREMONY FLOWERS
Guests often are first introduced to floral ar-
rangements at the wedding ceremony. Potted or
click with is key to having the wedding you envi-
sioned,” Bush noted. “Real flowers add a special
touch, and a wow factor. They can also double as
awe-inspiring ambiance. vase-encased flowers may bookend the couple at a party favor that will not be forgotten.”
Flowers appeal to at least three of the senses. the altar. Seats or pews may be adorned with flow-
Their delicate aroma can help a venue smell fresh er sprays to draw attention to the aisle, known as TIPS AND TRICKS
and inviting. And it’s hard to deny the visual appeal aisle markers. These are subtle choices that en- Couples should create a list of everywhere they
of a stunning floral arrangement. There are colors, hance the ceremony space. would like to use flowers and present it, along
sizes, textures, and much more that can cater to with magazine clippings or planning boards, to
any theme. In addition, flowers can add a tactile ele- RECEPTION COMPONENTS show florists what they have in mind when shop-
ment, even if guests do not going around touching Flowers may truly shine during the reception. ping services, according to Hummingbird Wed-
the blooms. They’re one of the most important components ding Advice. A 2021 survey from The Knot re-
Flowers convey so much during weddings that it’s when decorating the space. Flowers serve as cen- ported that the average cost for wedding flowers
important to make finding a florist a priority, ac- terpieces, so the guest list and the number of ta- was $2,300. It’s important to set a strict budget
cording to the wedding resource The Knot. The fol- bles will dictate how many centerpieces are re- so florists can present ideas that are in line with
lowing is a guide to understanding floral arrange- quired. These centerpieces can be elaborate or what couples can spend. Many expensive looks
ments that may be included in a wedding. simply a few loose flowers in vases. Florists can can be replicated with in-season flowers or less
“Babies breath is trending this year, lots of ba- customize the look depending on couples’ bud- costly alternatives.
bies breath,” Melissa Flanagan, owner of Shelby Flo- gets. Some additional reception flowers can in- Flowers are an important part of the wedding
ral, said. “Choosing your wedding date around the clude installations on arches or on anything day and should be incorporated into couples’
flowers you love will provide you with your favorite hanging like a floral backdrop for photo oppor- budgets.
blooms at the best price.” tunities. “Do what makes you smile, because looking
“It’s okay not to be sure of what specific flo- back at your big day you want to still smile years
BOUQUETS, CORSAGES AND BOUTONNIERES rals that you want for your wedding day. Starting from now,” Bush said.
The wedding party, bride, groom, and parents the process early and booking with a florist you COURTESY OF FLOWERS BY MARY ANN
of the couple are set apart from others at the wed-
ding ceremony by the special flowers on their attire
and in their hands, among other indicators. Bou- For one of the most “historic”
tonnieres are a single bud pinned to the left side of moments in your lives
a gentleman’s jacket. Corsages can be attached to
Start your celebration at the Jae’ Laimee Bridal
a dress, but are now often worn on the wrist. Bou- 4756 Airline Rd., Muskegon
quets are held in hand. They can be a few flowers Swedish Covenant Church 231-798-4062
gathered together, or more extensive displays. Bou-
quets may feature bare jaelaimeebridal.com
stems, or stems may be
bound and hidden be- Jae’ Laimee
neath ribbon and fabric.
Some couples also have
Two locations for all Bridal Outlet
a small tossing bouquet
to use later in the day. your bridal needs! 5669 Harvey St., Muskegon
(Next to Kohl’s and Joanne Fabric)
Flower petals for a flower
231-798-4062
girl to drop down the aisle
also may be part of the Prices from $99 to $999!
floral plan. This picturesque church, located in the
“Buy one extra corsage Oceana County’s Historical Society’s
or boutonniere, it’s amaz- Mears Museum Complex, is perfect
ing how any situation can
for your smaller weddings and celebrations.
quickly be defused by
handing a person a flow-
Other museum buildings are available
er and saying thanks for for pre and post wedding celebrations as well.
coming,” Mary Ann Bush, Call 231-873-2600 for further information
owner of Flowers by Mary 5809 West Fox Road, Mears MI
Ann, recommends.
8 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 9
COURTESY OF SHELBY FLORAL
How to find the right reception venue for you
E very decision engaged couples make in regard
to their weddings is significant, but some may
affect the day more than others. Perhaps no deci-
choose your wedding date based on the availability
of the venue. This is especially important for cou-
ples who already have an ideal venue in mind, and
said. “We’ve recently added string lights and patio
furniture to our large patio so you and your guests
can enjoy cocktail hour and dancing the night
sion will help couples set the tone they hope to es- it also provides some flexibility as couples search away!”
tablish more than their choice of reception venue. for the venue. For example, couples working with- • Consider your budget. The Knot 2021 Real Wed-
Reception venues are where couples and their in a strict budget may not be able to afford a pre- dings Study found that couples typically spend
guests will spend the vast majority of their time ferred venue during the height of wedding season, around 30 percent of their overall budget on the
on the wedding day, which is why choice of venue but that venue could be less costly during slower venue, which makes this decision the biggest one
bears such significance. With that in mind, couples times of year. By waiting to pick a date until you’ve in terms of the financial commitments a couple will
can consider these tips as they look for the perfect chosen a venue, you’re increasing your options. have to make. Couples may be tempted to choose
place to host their receptions. • Consider your guests. Though couples, partic- an awe-inspiring, costly venue for their reception,
• Decide what you want out of a venue. Prospec- ularly those footing the bill on their own, should but they should consider how devoting so much of
tive brides and grooms may have vastly different prioritize their desires when choosing a reception, their budget to the venue will affect the rest of their
ideas regarding how they want their weddings to it’s important they also consider their guests be- big day. The best reception venue might be one that
go, and it’s imperative that couples discuss their fore making a final decision. A venue that’s acces- won’t eat up too much of your budget.
ideal weddings prior to looking for a venue. Do you sible and located near transit hubs like airports and • Consider the package. Venues vary in terms of
want to get married in a place of worship? Or do train stations will increase the likelihood that more their reception packages. Some may offer catering,
COURTESY OF HERITAGE WEDDING BARNS
you prefer a venue that can host both the ceremony people can attend. In addition, if children will be including beverages, with each of their packages,
and reception? Do you want an indoor, outdoor or invited, a venue that includes family restrooms, in- while food and beverage might not be part of other
hybrid ceremony and reception? Define what you cluding at least one with a changing table, can make venues’ offerings. If you find a venue you love but it ers have had no trouble after choosing a venue and
both want before looking for a venue and make the parents’ nights much easier. doesn’t offer catering services, seek estimates from separate caterer.
necessary concessions if you have different ideas “At Heritage Wedding Barns we host weddings area caterers to determine how much it will cost to The bulk of a couple’s wedding day and night will
in mind. May through October. Our beautiful and serene Wil- feed and serve your guests. Many couples find it be spent at the reception, making choice of venue
• Consider picking a venue before setting a date. It low Tree ceremony site is the perfect place to say more convenient and less stressful to pick a venue one of the more fun and important decisions they’ll
can be wise to pick a reception venue first and then your vows,” Sarah Riley of Heritage Wedding Barns that offers on-site catering, though plenty of oth- have to make.
Customizing a
Carol Waller Owner/Stylist
delicious meal for
you and your guests!
Serving family, friends,
Let us be your something New!
business and events
Cindi Fekken Stylist
DOWNTOWN
Meals
222 W. Ludington Ave.
Cluck Bucket Special ..................................................$12.95
231-425-3705 • cluckbucketmi.com
Cluck & Pits ................................................................... $8.50
Tenders & Pits............................................................... $8.95
Cluck Nachos ..................................................................$7.95
Plan your perfect day with the Cluck Stack (Rice Bowl) ................................................$7.95
U-Pick Meal..................................................................$13.95
Our New Facility Built in 2021 Offers:
perfect dessert options! Cluck & Mac................................................................... $8.50
Spicy Cluck & Pits......................................................... $8.50
• Seating capacity 220
Carol & Co. will pamper Cluck & Sweet ............................................................... $6.95 • Tables and chairs furnished for your use
We offer more than just cake Keto Cluck .......................................................................$7.95
• Access to kitchen for Caterer use
your whole wedding Handhelds
Cupcakes, Cake Pops, • Raised stage with podium
family... Especially the Original Chicken Sandwich “The O” .......................... $5.50
Brownies, Cookies, and more! • Access to the beautiful outdoor gazebo making for a perfect
Bride and Groom with a Pulled Chicken Sandwich ............................................ $5.00
Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich....................................... $6.50
extended area to your party, ceremony or picture backdrop
personal touch to make Chicken Salad Sandwich ............................................. $5.50
InquireHouse
today to
WEST MICHIGAN
Wrap.................................................................... $6.50
your SPECIAL DAY a Chicken Salad Wrap ..................................................... $6.50
BEAUTIFUL MEMORY and HONEYMOON ready! start planning Tacos
your Chicken
bigTaco day. 5185 N. Oceana Drive Hart, MI 49420
33 W. 5th St. • Shelby 231.861.0375 231-852-9787
.................................................................. $3.00
Cluck Taco....................................................................... $3.00
Spicy Taco ....................................................................... $3.00
RESEARCH STATION (231) 225-0443
Tues & Thurs 3:30-8 pm; Fri & Sat 9am-3pm
Hawaiian Taco ............................................................... $3.00 Serving Oceana, Mason & Newaygo Counties www.westmichiganresearchstation.org
britters.ordering@gmail.com
Drinks
Fresh-made Lemonades and Iced Tea
Iced Coffee, Lattes, and Mochas
10 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 Pop, Water, and Juice
Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 11
A guide for your wedding timeline
W edding planning involves many movable
pieces that ultimately need to come togeth-
er on the big day. Planning is typically a months-
ly as wedding season draws near, so it’s never too
early to book them.
like transportation companies and hotels, to se-
cure these arrangements. Your place of worship
also may require certain classes or preparatory
long process, and adhering to certain monthly 10 MONTHS OUT meetings, so be sure to inquire about these.
benchmarks can help couples stay the course. This is a good time to start shopping for a wed- Meet with a makeup and hair stylist and book a
Brides magazine offers that the perfect engage- ding gown because it might take some trial and trial. Choose attire for groomsmen and give them
ment period is 12 to 14 months, which affords error to find the perfect dress. You also can start a deadline for fittings and orders. If you will not
ample time to get organized and work with ven- shopping for wedding party attire at this time. be getting married in a place of worship, hire an
dors. With that in mind, here’s a 12-month time- Check with formalwear vendors to see how long officiant at this time.
line for couples getting ready to say “I do.” it will take for the gowns to arrive in the shop for
alterations. If you haven’t already done so, be sure 4 MONTHS OUT Your love celebrated
12 MONTHS OUT
At the start of the planning process, establish
your budget, hire a wedding planner (optional),
to book the wedding venue.
8 MONTHS OUT
Grooms traditionally arrange the honeymoon,
so this is a fine time to get those travel plans in
order. If you need passports, you should secure
your way.
choose the wedding party, pick a date, and start to Reception halls may have their own schedules, them as early as possible, and no later than four
assemble a cursory guest list. This also is a great but you should think about setting your menu months prior to the wedding to ensure processing Let us help you break down your
time to begin touring venues to get a feel for po- at this time, including deciding if you will host a times. Book cake tastings and order the cake if it is wedding print & digital essentials.
tential ceremony and reception locales. seated dinner, a buffet or something else. not part of the venue food and beverage package.
Eight months out also is a good time to finalize If you haven’t already done so, the bride should SAVE THE DATES
11 MONTHS OUT
Now is the time to get a firm handle on the theme
the guest list and send save-the-date cards.
This also is a good time to visit stores to create
have an initial gown fitting, and wedding invita-
tions should be ordered at this time.
INVITATIONS
and scope of the wedding. Start picking wedding registry gift lists. PROGRAMS
colors and overall design. Also, interview and hire “We can provide information on the types of pa-
vendors, such as photographers, bands and vid- 6 MONTHS OUT per and printing methods available for wedding WELCOME SIGNS
eographers. These vendors tend to book up quick- Meet with potential florists and other vendors, invitations, as well as any design options or cus-
tomization possibilities. We can help with word-
GUEST BOOK
ing,” Mary Lulich, owner of Pixel Grafix Studio, NAPKINS
said. “We create custom graphics that will set the
A Stitch in Time tone from wedding for the entire wedding station- BANNERS
Bridal Boutique ary suite, as well as charts, retractable banners, ta-
ble place settings, programs and thank you note
cards.”
THANK YOU CARDS
SEATING CHART
NEW & Resale
Gowns size 0-30 2 MONTHS OUT WEDDING WEBSITE
in stock Buy wedding party gifts. Address and mail the
wedding invitations. Undergo a second gown fit- NEW 2ND OFFICE - LUDINGTON LOCATION!
For the entire 5941 WEST U.S. 10, LUDINGTON, MI 49431 OR
ting and work with the seamstress for the final
wedding party 112 E. MAIN STREET, SUITE 2, DOWNTOWN HART
fitting date just before the wedding. Finalize any
Prom • Formals
Bride • Flowergirl
song selections with the DJ or band.
1 MONTH OUT
231-861-0022
PRINTS@PIXELGRAFIXSTUDIO.COM
Mother of the Bride The final details will occur in the last weeks be-
fore the wedding. Secure your wedding license.
Also featuring Buy all the small accessories and items, undergo
Jewelry final fittings and check in with all vendors for fi-
- Alterations & Gown Preservation Available - nal payments and to ensure they are on schedule.
Notify the reception hall of the final guest count.
Over 1,000 Gowns in stock! YOUR WEDDING DAY
Call Sharon Briggs for an appointment • 231-894-8753 Once the wedding day arrives, couples who have
9494 S. Oceana Dr., 3 miles N. of Montague
GARDEN CENTER • LANDSCAPING
done their best to stay on schedule can relax and
have a great time with family and friends.
231.894.4742 | email jancarr@weesies.com | www.weesies.com
12 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 13
FREEPIK.COM
Tips for finding your dress Did you know? Shelby Floral & Gifts
Planning a wedding requires making many dif- 1. DON’T GET HUNG UP ON PERFECTION
ferent decisions. The choice of wedding attire is
among the most crucial decisions that couples
Many brides get caught up as they search for
the one dress they consider perfect. No dress is G etting engaged is an exciting moment
in the lives of a couple. One might think Delivering the wedding of your
must make. Whether the wedding is tradition- likely to check every box. Getting hung up on a that excitement would lead to couples hurry- dreams by pairing your unique
al or customized to suit couples’ personalities, desire to find a dress that has it all may make it ing their way down the aisle to tie the knot, but
brides and grooms want to look their best when hard to see the beauty in other dresses. Remem- studies have shown that couples spend a signif-
style with our creative design.
they say, “I do.” ber, with the talents of an experienced tailor or icant amount of time between getting engaged
Many brides-to-be spend a significant amount seamstress, most dresses can be tweaked to suit and saying, “I do.” According to The Knot 2021
of time looking for their ideal wedding dress- your vision of the ideal gown. Real Weddings Study, the average engagement
es. What defines the right gown depends on per- length among couples in the United States is 16
sonal preference and is unique to the person do- 2. CONSIDER THE SEASON months. Though those figures were likely af-
ing the search. For example, a dress that sets a Getting married during the hazy and humid fected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which un-
fairy tale scene for one bride may not necessar- days of summer is an entirely different experi- doubtedly contributed to longer engagements
ily align with the tastes of another. According ence than tying the knot during the heart of win- as couples waited to get married until large
to Bridal Atelier, the average bride-to-be tries ter. The fabric of the wedding dress should com- gatherings were deemed safe, it’s worth noting
on try three to seven dresses before finding plement the season, whether it’s lightweight and that lengthy engagements are not specifically a
the right one. The following tips can help those breezy for a warm day, or more substantial and COVID-related phenomenon. In fact, The Knot
shopping for dresses find a look that makes cozy when darting to the ceremony in snowfall. reports that the average length of engagement
their big day even more special. in 2019 was 14 months. Taking more time to
3. FLATTER YOUR FIGURE get to know one another also seems to be a pop-
Chances are brides-to-be know which cuts and ular approach among modern couples, as The
styles are most flattering. Mimic those style Knot Jewelry and Engagement Study found
choices in the wedding dress. If you want to take that three-quarters of all couples who wed in
focus off of full hips, choose a basque or asym- 2021 had dated for two or more years prior to
metrical waistline. Gowns with substantial straps getting engaged.
or higher necklines may be better if you have a
Your Perfect
larger chest. Sheath and mermaid style gowns
are options if you are confident with your figure
and want to show off your curves.
4. TRY A BIT OF THIS AND THAT
Honeymoon Begins Here
Don’t go into a wedding dress appointment
with firm parameters. Although you may have a PROVIDING EXCELLENT
ball gown style in mind, after trying on other op- CUSTOMER SERVICE BEFORE,
tions something with a less voluminous silhou-
ette may actually catch your eye. Many brides
DURING AND AFTER TRAVEL
also automatically defer to strapless gowns,
when various straps and sleeves can be very ap- CRUISES • ALL INCLUSIVE RESORTS
pealing. EUROPE AND MORE
5. ARRIVE WITH A FIRM BUDGET
Weddings can be costly. It’s important to set a
budget for the wedding dress just as you will with
other expenses. There are plenty of dress design-
ers across a wide spectrum of price points. A
willingness to consider and ultimately purchase
a less costly dress can help you stay on budget.
Browsing through magazines and looking on- Meryl Smith
line can provide wedding dress inspiration as Visit us at our new location
well. Also, when in doubt, defer to the experts Free Quotes
231-613-0099 • Yourturntravel@gmail.com 3093 W. M-20, New Era, MI 49446
at bridal shops who have experience choosing
dresses that brides are inclined to love. Yourturntravelagency.com 231-861-5390 shelbyfloralshop.com
14 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 15
Plan ahead for a perfectly romantic honeymoon
E ach couple has a different definition of what
constitutes a romantic getaway for a honey-
moon. For some, simply enjoying a night alone
and Ireland,” Meryl Smith from Your Turn Trav-
el said. “Using a travel agent can take the stress
out of planning and save you time so you can fo-
to book a room with a scenic view. If that room
also has a balcony where you can sit and enjoy the
view, even better. Make a date each night to sit and
is romantic enough. Others may feel resort vaca- cus on your wedding plans. I can have options and watch the sunset or get up early one morning and
tions are the epitome of romance. quotes for you usually within a week and do not watch the sunrise together hand-in-hand.
When planning a romantic getaway for their charge any service fees.”
honeymoon, couples should first identify what • Investigate cruises. Cruises are beneficial to
is important to them in a trip. Some may want a • Avoid school breaks. Another set of dates to couples looking to escape stressors because they
bevy of activities, while others are simply looking avoid is when schools tend to break for holidays are floating resorts. Once you pay for your trip,
to soak up some sun on the beach. A budget also or conferences. You may not want to share the re- there’s little else you need to do but enjoy your-
should be established so destinations can be cho- sort pool with crying toddlers or splashing ado- self.
sen based on affordability. Below are seven tips lescents if romance is the name of the game.
that can help couples plan the perfect romantic • Research spots for cuddling when choosing
honeymoon. • Consider couples-only resorts. Sandals® has hotels. A room with a fireplace, hammocks on the
established itself as a leading couples-only chain beach, dual beach loungers, and loveseats for two
• Book outside of the high season. When re- of resorts that cater to romantic honeymoons. But are some cozy places to get up close and personal.
searching locales, try to avoid peak tourist sea- you can book stays for just about any reason with-
sons. For example, you don’t want to be in New out bumping into families and children. Several “Many people ask why they should use a trav-
Orleans during Mardi Gras or heading to Florida other brands and individual hotels cater exclu- el agent when everything is on the internet. The
beaches during spring break. Instead, find a quiet sively to adults depending on the destination. advantage mostly is the customer service one re-
time when you can take advantage of amenities ceives when using a travel agent,” Smith explained.
and get individualized attention. • Disconnect and reconnect. Leave devices and
digital distractions at home and try to be in the Various strategies can help couples plan roman-
“Popular honeymoon destinations are Hawaii, moment as much as possible during the trip. tic getaways they won’t soon forget.
Mexico and the Caribbean. But many couples
choose overseas destinations such as Greece • Get a room with a view. Spend a little more
Create memories somewhere in time at
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Loading Dock
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16 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 17
Unveiling a tradition
T hough couples can plan wedding ceremonies
and receptions how they see fit, many wed-
dings are steeped in tradition, some of which may
Historians differ regarding the origins of the
bridal veil, but some trace this tradition all the
way back to Ancient Greece. Others suggest
be more subtle than others. One longstanding wed- bridal veils were first popularized within the
ding tradition revolves around a bride’s attire. Roman Empire by people who believed that the
veil protected the bride from evil spirits as she
walked down the aisle.
Traditions surrounding bridal veils even dif-
fer within various faiths, so the veil may signify
one thing at a Jewish wedding and something
entirely different at a Christian ceremony. Veils
also have long been seen by some as symbolic of
purity.
Despite their long-held position in wedding
lore and tradition, veils are no longer seen as a
must-have. Nor are brides who choose to wear
a veil beholden to having it cover their face as
they walk down the aisle.
In fact, many modern brides now flip their
veils over their head as they walk down the aisle
en route to saying, “I do.” Regardless of how
brides who opt for veils choose to wear them,
there’s no denying the enduring popularity of
this tradition.
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18 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 19Exquisite Jewelry
Design & Quality
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20 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 231-845-5257You can also read
