Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023

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Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023
Spring/Summer 2023

Bridal W rld

        Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 1
Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023
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
Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023
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
Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023
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
Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023
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
Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023
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
Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023
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
Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023
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
Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023
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
                                                                                                                                      The Shelby
                                                                                                              Loading Dock
                                                                                                             Celebrate your wedding at our beautifully restored, spacious, two level event hall.

                                                                                                                  Classic and Romantic
                                                                                                              to complement the most important day of your life.

                                                                                                                             20 W. Third Street • Shelby, MI • 231-414-7469
                                                                                                                                                               231.206.2167
16 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023                                                                                                                                                                   Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 17
Bridal W rld Spring/Summer 2023
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.

                                                                      Send a smile with Flowers
                                                                      & Love with...

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                                                                             Weddings & Events
                                                                       Add that special touch to your event,
                                     Special Moments
                                                                        with the natural beauty of flowers.
                                    There are so many reasons            We make the process easy when
                                    to send and celebrate with           planning an event close to home
                                    flowers. Our favorite is just        or a West Michigan destination.
                                    because it’s Tuesday. Let us      Local Delivery to Oceana and Mason Counties
                                   help add a little extra to your         and Flower Subscriptions Available
                                           celebration.
                                                                               231-923-6910
                                                                           flowersbymaryann.com
                                                                         flowersma247@gmail.com
18 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023                                                                                        Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023 • 19
Exquisite Jewelry
    Design & Quality
  Trust your local wedding and engagement
  ring specialists for the finest in quality,
  service and style.

  More than 40 years of experience in
  Jewelry Repair, Design & Manufacturing

       Jewelry in
       every price                    1000’s of styles
         range                          available

        Our sincerest goal is to provide you
        with the ring you’re dreaming of!

                                                                  Check us
                                                                   out on

                                                         327 S. James St.
                                                           Ludington
20 • Bridal • Spring/Summer 2023                          231-845-5257
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