fall 2011 bridal tab
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Wedding Guide 2011 A Special Supplement To THE FREEBORN COUNTY SHOPPER October 25. 2011TRANSCRIPT
Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 8
Almost as long as there have
been bridal gowns, white or
ivory have been the colors of
choice for first-time brides. These
light hues represent the purity
and innocence of the bride.
Although a few brides-to-be
choose to forego wedding white
for something a bit more flashy
-- like pink or yellow gowns -- a
popular trend today is to wear
gowns with accents of black
or other deep colors to add
dimension to the white canvas.
Considering the groom and
groomsmen will be dressed in
black tuxedos, black accents
on a wedding gown have been
growing in popularity and add a
formal, regal look to a wedding.
Darker color embellishments can
add drama to a gown. Another
advantage is they can call out
pattern or adornments not
easily seen on a white-on-white
gown. Furthermore, deep colors
against the white backdrop of the
gown show well in photography,
particularly the black-and-white
journalistic style that is very
trendy as well.
Women shopping for bridal
gowns who are considering
colored accents should be careful
that these embellishments are
subtle and do not overwhelm
the gown -- or the person who
will be wearing it! Popular
enhancements include appliqués
on the bodice or the train of the
gown. Another idea is to select
a white gown and then tie a
black bow or sash around the
waist or put a lace shrug over
bare shoulders. Black-and-white
lace gloves are also an option
for those who want to add just a
little splash of dimension.
The same concept can be
applied to any accent color.
Burgundy or plum colors also
work well to add the contrast of
dark against light and aren't as
extreme as black. Some brides
can also opt for a paler, more
pastel shade to serve as an
accompaniment to the white
gown. Many times the accent
colors chosen are replicated
in the hue of the bridesmaids'
gowns, so the entire wedding
party looks cohesive.
Because the spectacle will
be the beauty of the gown, it's
best to carry a neutral-colored
bouquet in a small size. Or, a
black-and-white gown can be
accented with a small nosegay of
red flowers or roses.
Colorful Accents Chic for this Year's Bridal Gowns
Wedding Guide 2011
A Special Supplement To THE FREEBORN COUNTY SHOPPER October 25. 2011
Easton, MN 56025 507-787-2211 www.SilhouetteWedding.com
The perfect dressfrom every view, is
is awaiting you at
The Silhouette
Inc.
For more information or a personalized quote, contact our
Director of Sales & Events, Bryce Nelson at (507) 373-2007
Ext. 104
2200 W. 9th St., Albert Lea
507-373-2007
Reception Perfection• Large Screen & Crystal Clear Projectors• Banquet Seating up to 450 People• Double-Sided Full Service Built In Bar to
Accomodate for Social Area & Ballroom • Ballroom Windows & Full Length Balcony
offer Scenic Golf Course & Lake Views • Outdoor Area by the Lake for Wedding
Ceremonies
www.wedgewoodcove.com
No Room Rental Charge
Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 2 Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 7
Toast of the town - Toasting tips for Best Men & Maids of Honor Wedding days are typically
steeped in tradition. Whether it's
the hours before the wedding or
the bride's attire or the first dance,
it seems no aspect of a couple's
big day isn't accompanied by
some ages-old tradition.
One of the more enjoyable
wedding day traditions is the
toast. Once the reception has
begun, the maid of honor and
the best man are trusted to toast
the new bride and groom. Such
toasts are typically heartfelt and
humorous, but there are also a
few guidelines to follow to ensure
the toast is memorable for all the
right reasons.
* Stand up! Stand up when
delivering a wedding toast. Sitting
down won't command the guests'
attention, and your voice likely
won't carry as well if you're sitting
down.
* Don't go too long. A good
wedding toast shouldn't stretch
beyond five minutes. Long-winded
toasts could come off as rambling
and incoherent, and the guests
will likely tune out if the toast
goes longer than five minutes.
* Introduce yourself. Just
because you're a maid of honor
or a best man doesn't mean all of
the guests know your relationship
with the bride or groom. Make it
brief, but provide an explanation
of your relationship.
* Keep the toast appropriate.
Many adults who have been to
a wedding or two in their day
have a story about a wedding
toast gone awry. While these
stories are humorous, no best
man or maid of honor wants
to have similar stories told
about his or her toasts. Make
the toast appropriate, keeping
in mind there might be some
younger guests in attendance. In
addition, avoid references to past
relationships. Such references are
awkward and uncomfortable.
* Don't make it an "inside" joke.
Maids of honor or best men are
typically close friends or siblings
of the bride and groom. Such a
close relationship makes it easy
to tell an inside joke only a few
guests will understand. Avoid such
inside jokes, as one of the goals
of the toast should be to illustrate
your love and appreciation of the
bride or groom in a way all guests
can understand.
* Make it personal. A personal
anecdote is a nice touch. Such
anecdotes can be about anything,
whether it's the first time you met
your friend's now-spouse or, if
you're not related to the bride or
groom, how you met.
* Steer clear of the bar before
the toast. Many a well-intentioned
wedding toast has gone horribly
wrong thanks to alcohol. Maids
of honor and best men should
abstain from alcohol before their
toasts to avoid embarrassing
themselves and the bride and
groom. If you're especially
nervous, maybe a drink can help
calm your nerves. But if you're
going to drink before the toast, be
sure to drink only in moderation.
* Practice beforehand. Very few
people can survive "winging" a
wedding toast. Practice the toast
beforehand so you're comfortable
with what you're going to say
before the moment arrives.
* Don't put too much pressure
on yourself. Weddings are
typically laid back and fun affairs,
so don't stress about giving
the perfect toast. If the toast
comes off as genuine and stays
appropriate, it's a good toast.
Pack an Emergency Wedding Day Kit
Brides- and grooms-to-be hope and pray their wedding day will go off without a hitch. After a year or more of planning and writing checks for so many things, couples hope that it all comes together in the end. For most it does. Others may need a little help keeping things on track. Although the idea is to hope for the best, being prepared for a few obstacles along the way can ensure the day goes smoothly. Many couples find it wise to pack an emergency kit, stocked with items to make repairs or handle tie ups with ease. Brides and grooms can use this checklist to compile a wedding day kit that meets their needs and customize with any specialty items.
• needle and thread in white, black and the color of bridesmaid gowns
• extra pairs of pantyhose
• pain reliever pills• antacid• quick-clean
detergent stick• bandages• powder• deodorant• double-sided tape• black buttons• sanitary pads• mints/gum• makeup for touch-
ups• extra cash
• slippers or a change of shoes
• umbrellas• hairspray• hair pins• names and phone
numbers of all wedding vendors
• static cling spray• hair dryer• contact lens
solution/eye drops• nail file• nail clipper• straws (to sip drinks
without ruining lipstick)
• safety pins• black socks• earring backs
122 S. Broadway, Albert Lea 507-373-7746
M-F 9:30-5:30, Thurs. ‘till 7, Sat. 9:30-3
Brides ToDo List Set the Stage For an Exceptional Wedding Day with an Array of Colors, Papers & Styles
to Choose From at Celebrations• Invitations • Accessories • Reception Rentals & Supplies • Over 25 Napkin Colors
With Custom Imprinting available
We’re Happy to Serve You!
Twelve to Eighteen Months❏ Set the date
❏ Determine wedding budget
❏ Select wedding site
❏ Select officiant(s)
❏ Select & reserve a reception
site
❏ Choose a caterer
❏ Select ceremony musicians
❏ Select reception
entertainment
❏ Choose attendants
❏ Choose ushers and helpers
❏ Select photographer
❏ Select videographer
❏ Choose a wedding
consultant
Six to Twelve Months❏ Choose wedding style &
color
❏ Decide on the size of the
wedding
❏ Determine guest list
❏ Choose a florist
❏ Order your wedding dress
❏ Select & order bridesmaid
dresses
❏ Confirm delivery date for
dresses
❏ Update your passports, if
needed
❏ Plan rehearsal/grooms
dinner with fiance & all
parent
Three to Six Months❏ Purchase gifts for attendants
& fiance
❏ Select men’s formal wear
❏ Choose reception
decorations
❏ Reserve rented items
❏ Order invitations &
announcements
❏ Select & order the wedding
cake
❏ Purchase wedding bands
❏ Select a transportation
service
❏ Plan the honeymoon, make
reservations
❏ Register with bridal
registries
❏ Arrange out-of-town guest
accommodations
❏ Buy your trousseau
❏ Have mothers buy their
dresses
❏ Make wedding day salon
appointment
❏ Have a complete physical
exam
One to Three Months❏ Select wedding reception
music
❏ Have final dressing fittings
❏ Address wedding invitations
❏ Mail wedding invitations 4
to 6 weeks, no later than 3
weeks
❏ Get marriage license
❏ Confirm appointments &
arrangements
❏ Confirm honeymoon
arrangements
❏ Prepare and send newspaper
announcement
❏ Make arrangements for
parking, traffic
Two Weeks❏ Confirm details with
photographer and
videographer
❏ Pick up wedding rings (if
engraved)
❏ Organize your trousseau and
pack
❏ Purchase travelers checks
❏ Plan a seating arrangement
for reception
One Week❏ Talk with caterer, give final
guest count
❏ Have groom’s formal wear
fitting
❏ Have groomsmen try on and
pick up their formal wear
❏ Confirm duties and time
schedule with attendants
and helpers
❏ Finalize last minute
arrangements for music,
flowers, cake
Your Wedding Day❏ Bring your wedding guide for
important names & phone
numbers
❏ Stay calm and enjoy, this is
your wedding day!
Wedding Day Countdown
Mike Heideman • 507-383-6019 Mike Trytten • [email protected]
w
M
photobooth
• weddings
• proms
• corporate events
• trade shows
• holiday parties
• graduation
• school dances
• much more
Conger Catering265-3265
98 Maple St. Conger, MN
Catering to your needs
Build Your Own Wedding Package.
Call for a Consultation
507-369-5186www.jessicabstudios.com
2012 Brides Booking Now
CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMINGDowntown • Albert Lea • 377-0848
You Could Frame:• Wedding Invitations• Engagement Photos• Love Letters • Sheet Music • Parents Wedding
Photos • Flowers, etc.
Your HappilyEver After!
Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 3
Wedding Budget Estimated Actual Paid Due
WeddingAnnouncements
WeddingInvitations
Thank-Yous
WeddingProgram
Postage
Rings
Photographer
Videgrapher
RehearsalDinner
Food/Caterer
Beverages
Cake
Bride’sDress
Bride’sVeil
Accessories/Shoes
GroomsTux
Flowers
Rentals
Decorations
Transportation
ReceptionSiteFee
ChurchFees/Officiant
Entertainment/Musicians
AttendantsGifts
MarriageLicense
Honeymoon
Other
Totals
Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 6
After you have talked about your plans with your families, create a tentative budget using the budget worksheet in this book. List what you expect to pay for each item. Record price quotes there also.
As you fill out this sheet, it becomes a complete financial
picture of your expenses. Working carefully with a wedding timetable allows you to get the best values, best dates and best services.
Plan Your Wedding BudgetWhen buying an engagement
ring, make sure it's fully insured by your homeowners or renters insurance policy or additional jewelry insurance.
If you've recently become engaged, you may want to check your homeowners or renters insurance policy. That's because your engagement ring may not be fully covered by that policy.
An engagement ring is a cherished gift and one you will want to protect. No one wants to imagine their ring being damaged, lost or stolen, but the fact is that these situations can and do happen.
Typical insurance policies for your home or apartment set limits for certain categories of
personal property, like jewelry. They may only cover $500 to $1000 on a stolen ring. If the theft or loss occurs outside of the home, you may not be covered at all.
Talk to an insurance agent to see if you can amend a policy or purchase other insurance if you want to protect your ring in case of theft or if it becomes lost or damaged. Here are some questions to ask if you're considering jewelry insurance.
* Is there a deductible on the insurance, and if so, how much?
* Do I need to have the ring appraised for insurance? Can I use my own appraiser or does the insurance company need to handle the appraisal?
* Will the insurance cover theft or loss of the ring wherever it takes place, even if it occurs in a foreign country?
* Can I receive a cash settlement for the value of the ring, or must the ring be replaced with another?
* Does the policy cover repairs to damaged jewelry?
* Can I purchase a "valued at" plan if my ring is one of a kind and cannot be replaced? This policy allows you to value your ring at a higher dollar amount than its appraised worth.
Engagement Advice: Insure Your Ring
2516 Northbridge Mall • Albert Lea, MN • 507-377-8515Custom Designs • Diamonds & Precious Gems • Full Serivce Jeweler Since 1988
Monday-Friday 10 to 9,Saturday 10 to 6, Sunday 12 to 5
...till the end of timeF Engagement RingsF Wedding BandsF Anniversary BandsF Men's Wedding Bands
Choose your ring from a number of engaging designs, or let us create the one-of-a-kind custom ring you've always envisioned.
IN STOCK F CUSTOM DESIGN F SPECIAL ORDER
I-90 Exit 157 & Bridge Ave., Albert LeaHours: Mon. - Fri. 10-9, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 12-5
www.northbridgemall.com
Join Us For Our
2012
Bridal ExpoSunday
January 1512-5 pm
EAGLES205 W. William, Albert Lea
373-1162
• Receptions & Dances• Seating For Up To
300 Guests• Unique Menu
Selections• Private Room with
Large Dance FloorAll the Best Value for Your dollar
Call for More Details
Let Us Help You Make Your Wedding Reception PERFECT!
ReceptionPerfection
Not so long ago when a couple announced their engagement and the bride selected her maid of honor, the maid of honor would start planning the bridal shower. She would invite all of the bride's closest female friends and family members together to toast the bride and share good times with her. While some brides today continue this tradition, others take an alternative route.
One of the biggest trends in bridal showers today is the couples shower in which friends and family gather together with both the bride and the groom. With more grooms taking an active role in the wedding planning and more couples footing the bill for their wedding themselves, it is only natural that some couples would want to share the shower experience. Couples showers can be held at someone's home
or at one of the couple's favorite venues.
For those that prefer the traditional women-only bridal shower, a hot new trend is to center it on some activity, like bowling, making pottery, going to the spa or volunteering for an organization. This requires less planning and provides for a fun, stress-free experience for one and all. Guests can participate in the activity and share a meal afterwards, either at the venue or at a restaurant.
If time and budget permit, destination showers are another idea. The bride and a select group of friends and family can take a little trip together. They can hop a plane and spend a few days at the beach or take the train to a ski resort. The sky is the limit.
For brides that prefer to stay home, themed showers continue to be popular. Themes can run the gamut from kitchen gadgets to entertainment to the bride's favorite things. And because many brides are already living on their own and have the items needed to set up house, gifts can range from the unique to the wacky.
Whatever the choice of bridal shower, anyone can host it-family, friends, even coworkers. Brides, or couples, can have more than one shower. The bride's mother might throw one for family and
friends, while her coworker throws one for business associates and colleagues. If the couple has a rather large circle of family and friends, they might end up having three or four bridal showers. It all depends upon time and preference.
The key to any good shower is to involve the bride or couple. Whoever is hosting the shower should get the input of the bride or the couple and respect their wishes. After all, they are the guests of honor.
Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 5Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 4
Wedding Cake...Cookies...Cupcakes...and More...The engagement is announced,
the date is set, attendants are selected and now the wedding plans begin. Dresses, tuxes, ceremony site, reception site, invitations, menu, guest list, flowers, cake...
Cake? Do you have to have cake? Does every wedding celebration have the ceremonial cutting of the tiered cake? Not anymore. Tradition has given way to personal preference and unique alternatives. Choices are as varied as the bride's and groom's personalities.
So what are your options? They run the gamut from elaborately decorated tiers to decorated sugar cookies.
Cutout cookies can be in the shape of a heart, mini wedding cake, boat or other related theme. Flavor options include
Grandma's favorite sugar cookie recipe, gingerbread, brownies, pumpkin, sour cream-any rollout recipe that lends itself to cookie cutters. The decorated cookies can then be personalized with the couple's names, initials or wedding date. The unique confections can be displayed on a central table, serve as centerpieces on guests' tables or placed at each place setting.
Rather than serving cake slices, some couples opt for a tiered display of doughnuts or cupcakes. In addition to the unique presentation, one advantage to serving cupcakes or doughnuts is the variety available for individual preferences. Serving dessert is also easier since guests can help themselves to their favorite treat.
A dessert table is another
popular option for the wedding meal. The couple can offer their favorite selections of cheesecake, fluff, mousse, trifle, pudding and other sweets. Displayed on varied levels of pedestal plates, the desserts create an unexpected, attractive presentation. Covering the table with coordinating fabric and interspersing small bowls of mints, candies and nuts complete the festive look.
Having a small cake on each table allows guests to serve themselves. These cakes, which can double as centerpieces, can be simply decorated eight-inch layer cakes or they can be thematically decorated-purses, hearts, ships, dresses, baseballs, etc.-to reflect the couple's unique interests. The originality of the creations will be a topic of conversation long after the wedding day.
Not to be tossed aside, however, is the traditional tiered cake. Flavors, fillings, textures, frosting and design all work together to present a culinary delight. No longer do guests anticipate a white cake with white butter cream frosting at a wedding. Bakeries offer such a wide range of options that no wedding cake should ever be predictable.
Brides and grooms have the opportunity to add a distinctive touch to their wedding day celebration. Not only will guests remember what the bride wore, but they will undoubtedly remember how personal and unique the reception was-especially the dessert.
Bridal Shower Trends
72 Downtown Plaza, Fairmont, MN • 507-235-5585www.blueboxbridal.com
Receive a Honeymoon Stay for Two in Fabulous Las Vegas
With Purchase of a Bridal Gown worth $499.00 or more!
A Gift Suggestion from Clothing CareWedding Gown Preservation*
Make the most important garment of your life last for years to come.
Trust Your Wedding Dress To Us!See us before the wedding to have all
bridal attire pressed.Your full service dry cleaners & launderers.
“The Professionals”116 S. Washington,
Albert Lea, MN373-2318
Mon.-Fri. 6:00-5:30, Sat. 8-NoonLocally Owned & Operated by Robin Carstens
lothingareenterC
Bring InThis Ad For
10% OffStarts with the right venue • Receptions / Grooms Dinners • Create Your Own Menu from
our Variety of Menu Choices • Affordable PricesFor More Info or to Book an Event
Call Betty at 507-369-5434
Moose Lodge #17031623 W. Main St., Albert Lea
CERTIFIED TRAVELNorthbridge Mall - Albert Lea, MN 507-373-8830 1-888-339-9954
“Because... Customer Service Matters!”
• destination Wedding• Honeymoon Packages• Cruises & Airfare
Professional Travel Planning
Tie the knot your own way
507-369-02721417 S. John Ave., Albert Lea, MN
www.sugarchiccakes.com
The Perfect Marriageof Design and Taste
“Let us design the perfect cake for your special occasion.”
Custom Cakes for DisCriminating
tastes!
Sugar ChiC Cake Designs
Dawson Limousine
Contact Brad 507-402-0606
Limo Bus
available for
large parties.
Available for your special day!
Over the years, there will be smooth sailing and rough seas, but the right insurance protection will help you stay the course. We encourage you to see us for a complimentary consultation and rate quote. Our comprehensive coverage plans and unparalleled service will bring you peace of mind for a lifetime together.
troy thompson LutCf
1330 W. Main, Albert Lea, MN 56007507-377-2852 Toll Free 877-974-9597
Fax: 507-377-3301
E-Mail: [email protected]
Auto • Home • LifeMajor Medical • Business
Make sure you have the right insurance.
216 So. Broadway Ave. • Albert Lea • 507-377-2081
Custom Bridal &
Bridesmaids Bouquets,
Corsages & Boutonnieres
Cake Flowers
Creative Ceremony
& Reception Arrangements
Personal Consultants to Work Within Your Budget
Trust Addies to Make Your Wedding Beautiful!
Jolene Bute - Owner/designer 155 S. Broadway • Alden, MN
507-874-3425
From set up to take down, we believe every wedding is a
work of art. Tell us your dream and we’ll handle the detailsAccents
Wedding DayChurch &
Reception Perfection
Not so long ago when a couple announced their engagement and the bride selected her maid of honor, the maid of honor would start planning the bridal shower. She would invite all of the bride's closest female friends and family members together to toast the bride and share good times with her. While some brides today continue this tradition, others take an alternative route.
One of the biggest trends in bridal showers today is the couples shower in which friends and family gather together with both the bride and the groom. With more grooms taking an active role in the wedding planning and more couples footing the bill for their wedding themselves, it is only natural that some couples would want to share the shower experience. Couples showers can be held at someone's home
or at one of the couple's favorite venues.
For those that prefer the traditional women-only bridal shower, a hot new trend is to center it on some activity, like bowling, making pottery, going to the spa or volunteering for an organization. This requires less planning and provides for a fun, stress-free experience for one and all. Guests can participate in the activity and share a meal afterwards, either at the venue or at a restaurant.
If time and budget permit, destination showers are another idea. The bride and a select group of friends and family can take a little trip together. They can hop a plane and spend a few days at the beach or take the train to a ski resort. The sky is the limit.
For brides that prefer to stay home, themed showers continue to be popular. Themes can run the gamut from kitchen gadgets to entertainment to the bride's favorite things. And because many brides are already living on their own and have the items needed to set up house, gifts can range from the unique to the wacky.
Whatever the choice of bridal shower, anyone can host it-family, friends, even coworkers. Brides, or couples, can have more than one shower. The bride's mother might throw one for family and
friends, while her coworker throws one for business associates and colleagues. If the couple has a rather large circle of family and friends, they might end up having three or four bridal showers. It all depends upon time and preference.
The key to any good shower is to involve the bride or couple. Whoever is hosting the shower should get the input of the bride or the couple and respect their wishes. After all, they are the guests of honor.
Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 5Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 4
Wedding Cake...Cookies...Cupcakes...and More...The engagement is announced,
the date is set, attendants are selected and now the wedding plans begin. Dresses, tuxes, ceremony site, reception site, invitations, menu, guest list, flowers, cake...
Cake? Do you have to have cake? Does every wedding celebration have the ceremonial cutting of the tiered cake? Not anymore. Tradition has given way to personal preference and unique alternatives. Choices are as varied as the bride's and groom's personalities.
So what are your options? They run the gamut from elaborately decorated tiers to decorated sugar cookies.
Cutout cookies can be in the shape of a heart, mini wedding cake, boat or other related theme. Flavor options include
Grandma's favorite sugar cookie recipe, gingerbread, brownies, pumpkin, sour cream-any rollout recipe that lends itself to cookie cutters. The decorated cookies can then be personalized with the couple's names, initials or wedding date. The unique confections can be displayed on a central table, serve as centerpieces on guests' tables or placed at each place setting.
Rather than serving cake slices, some couples opt for a tiered display of doughnuts or cupcakes. In addition to the unique presentation, one advantage to serving cupcakes or doughnuts is the variety available for individual preferences. Serving dessert is also easier since guests can help themselves to their favorite treat.
A dessert table is another
popular option for the wedding meal. The couple can offer their favorite selections of cheesecake, fluff, mousse, trifle, pudding and other sweets. Displayed on varied levels of pedestal plates, the desserts create an unexpected, attractive presentation. Covering the table with coordinating fabric and interspersing small bowls of mints, candies and nuts complete the festive look.
Having a small cake on each table allows guests to serve themselves. These cakes, which can double as centerpieces, can be simply decorated eight-inch layer cakes or they can be thematically decorated-purses, hearts, ships, dresses, baseballs, etc.-to reflect the couple's unique interests. The originality of the creations will be a topic of conversation long after the wedding day.
Not to be tossed aside, however, is the traditional tiered cake. Flavors, fillings, textures, frosting and design all work together to present a culinary delight. No longer do guests anticipate a white cake with white butter cream frosting at a wedding. Bakeries offer such a wide range of options that no wedding cake should ever be predictable.
Brides and grooms have the opportunity to add a distinctive touch to their wedding day celebration. Not only will guests remember what the bride wore, but they will undoubtedly remember how personal and unique the reception was-especially the dessert.
Bridal Shower Trends
72 Downtown Plaza, Fairmont, MN • 507-235-5585www.blueboxbridal.com
Receive a Honeymoon Stay for Two in Fabulous Las Vegas
With Purchase of a Bridal Gown worth $499.00 or more!
A Gift Suggestion from Clothing CareWedding Gown Preservation*
Make the most important garment of your life last for years to come.
Trust Your Wedding Dress To Us!See us before the wedding to have all
bridal attire pressed.Your full service dry cleaners & launderers.
“The Professionals”116 S. Washington,
Albert Lea, MN373-2318
Mon.-Fri. 6:00-5:30, Sat. 8-NoonLocally Owned & Operated by Robin Carstens
lothingareenterC
Bring InThis Ad For
10% OffStarts with the right venue • Receptions / Grooms Dinners • Create Your Own Menu from
our Variety of Menu Choices • Affordable PricesFor More Info or to Book an Event
Call Betty at 507-369-5434
Moose Lodge #17031623 W. Main St., Albert Lea
CERTIFIED TRAVELNorthbridge Mall - Albert Lea, MN 507-373-8830 1-888-339-9954
“Because... Customer Service Matters!”
• destination Wedding• Honeymoon Packages• Cruises & Airfare
Professional Travel Planning
Tie the knot your own way
507-369-02721417 S. John Ave., Albert Lea, MN
www.sugarchiccakes.com
The Perfect Marriageof Design and Taste
“Let us design the perfect cake for your special occasion.”
Custom Cakes for DisCriminating
tastes!
Sugar ChiC Cake Designs
Dawson Limousine
Contact Brad 507-402-0606
Limo Bus
available for
large parties.
Available for your special day!
Over the years, there will be smooth sailing and rough seas, but the right insurance protection will help you stay the course. We encourage you to see us for a complimentary consultation and rate quote. Our comprehensive coverage plans and unparalleled service will bring you peace of mind for a lifetime together.
troy thompson LutCf
1330 W. Main, Albert Lea, MN 56007507-377-2852 Toll Free 877-974-9597
Fax: 507-377-3301
E-Mail: [email protected]
Auto • Home • LifeMajor Medical • Business
Make sure you have the right insurance.
216 So. Broadway Ave. • Albert Lea • 507-377-2081
Custom Bridal &
Bridesmaids Bouquets,
Corsages & Boutonnieres
Cake Flowers
Creative Ceremony
& Reception Arrangements
Personal Consultants to Work Within Your Budget
Trust Addies to Make Your Wedding Beautiful!
Jolene Bute - Owner/designer 155 S. Broadway • Alden, MN
507-874-3425
From set up to take down, we believe every wedding is a
work of art. Tell us your dream and we’ll handle the detailsAccents
Wedding DayChurch &
Reception Perfection
Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 3
Wedding Budget Estimated Actual Paid Due
WeddingAnnouncements
WeddingInvitations
Thank-Yous
WeddingProgram
Postage
Rings
Photographer
Videgrapher
RehearsalDinner
Food/Caterer
Beverages
Cake
Bride’sDress
Bride’sVeil
Accessories/Shoes
GroomsTux
Flowers
Rentals
Decorations
Transportation
ReceptionSiteFee
ChurchFees/Officiant
Entertainment/Musicians
AttendantsGifts
MarriageLicense
Honeymoon
Other
Totals
Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 6
After you have talked about your plans with your families, create a tentative budget using the budget worksheet in this book. List what you expect to pay for each item. Record price quotes there also.
As you fill out this sheet, it becomes a complete financial
picture of your expenses. Working carefully with a wedding timetable allows you to get the best values, best dates and best services.
Plan Your Wedding BudgetWhen buying an engagement
ring, make sure it's fully insured by your homeowners or renters insurance policy or additional jewelry insurance.
If you've recently become engaged, you may want to check your homeowners or renters insurance policy. That's because your engagement ring may not be fully covered by that policy.
An engagement ring is a cherished gift and one you will want to protect. No one wants to imagine their ring being damaged, lost or stolen, but the fact is that these situations can and do happen.
Typical insurance policies for your home or apartment set limits for certain categories of
personal property, like jewelry. They may only cover $500 to $1000 on a stolen ring. If the theft or loss occurs outside of the home, you may not be covered at all.
Talk to an insurance agent to see if you can amend a policy or purchase other insurance if you want to protect your ring in case of theft or if it becomes lost or damaged. Here are some questions to ask if you're considering jewelry insurance.
* Is there a deductible on the insurance, and if so, how much?
* Do I need to have the ring appraised for insurance? Can I use my own appraiser or does the insurance company need to handle the appraisal?
* Will the insurance cover theft or loss of the ring wherever it takes place, even if it occurs in a foreign country?
* Can I receive a cash settlement for the value of the ring, or must the ring be replaced with another?
* Does the policy cover repairs to damaged jewelry?
* Can I purchase a "valued at" plan if my ring is one of a kind and cannot be replaced? This policy allows you to value your ring at a higher dollar amount than its appraised worth.
Engagement Advice: Insure Your Ring
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Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 2 Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 7
Toast of the town - Toasting tips for Best Men & Maids of Honor Wedding days are typically
steeped in tradition. Whether it's
the hours before the wedding or
the bride's attire or the first dance,
it seems no aspect of a couple's
big day isn't accompanied by
some ages-old tradition.
One of the more enjoyable
wedding day traditions is the
toast. Once the reception has
begun, the maid of honor and
the best man are trusted to toast
the new bride and groom. Such
toasts are typically heartfelt and
humorous, but there are also a
few guidelines to follow to ensure
the toast is memorable for all the
right reasons.
* Stand up! Stand up when
delivering a wedding toast. Sitting
down won't command the guests'
attention, and your voice likely
won't carry as well if you're sitting
down.
* Don't go too long. A good
wedding toast shouldn't stretch
beyond five minutes. Long-winded
toasts could come off as rambling
and incoherent, and the guests
will likely tune out if the toast
goes longer than five minutes.
* Introduce yourself. Just
because you're a maid of honor
or a best man doesn't mean all of
the guests know your relationship
with the bride or groom. Make it
brief, but provide an explanation
of your relationship.
* Keep the toast appropriate.
Many adults who have been to
a wedding or two in their day
have a story about a wedding
toast gone awry. While these
stories are humorous, no best
man or maid of honor wants
to have similar stories told
about his or her toasts. Make
the toast appropriate, keeping
in mind there might be some
younger guests in attendance. In
addition, avoid references to past
relationships. Such references are
awkward and uncomfortable.
* Don't make it an "inside" joke.
Maids of honor or best men are
typically close friends or siblings
of the bride and groom. Such a
close relationship makes it easy
to tell an inside joke only a few
guests will understand. Avoid such
inside jokes, as one of the goals
of the toast should be to illustrate
your love and appreciation of the
bride or groom in a way all guests
can understand.
* Make it personal. A personal
anecdote is a nice touch. Such
anecdotes can be about anything,
whether it's the first time you met
your friend's now-spouse or, if
you're not related to the bride or
groom, how you met.
* Steer clear of the bar before
the toast. Many a well-intentioned
wedding toast has gone horribly
wrong thanks to alcohol. Maids
of honor and best men should
abstain from alcohol before their
toasts to avoid embarrassing
themselves and the bride and
groom. If you're especially
nervous, maybe a drink can help
calm your nerves. But if you're
going to drink before the toast, be
sure to drink only in moderation.
* Practice beforehand. Very few
people can survive "winging" a
wedding toast. Practice the toast
beforehand so you're comfortable
with what you're going to say
before the moment arrives.
* Don't put too much pressure
on yourself. Weddings are
typically laid back and fun affairs,
so don't stress about giving
the perfect toast. If the toast
comes off as genuine and stays
appropriate, it's a good toast.
Pack an Emergency Wedding Day Kit
Brides- and grooms-to-be hope and pray their wedding day will go off without a hitch. After a year or more of planning and writing checks for so many things, couples hope that it all comes together in the end. For most it does. Others may need a little help keeping things on track. Although the idea is to hope for the best, being prepared for a few obstacles along the way can ensure the day goes smoothly. Many couples find it wise to pack an emergency kit, stocked with items to make repairs or handle tie ups with ease. Brides and grooms can use this checklist to compile a wedding day kit that meets their needs and customize with any specialty items.
• needle and thread in white, black and the color of bridesmaid gowns
• extra pairs of pantyhose
• pain reliever pills• antacid• quick-clean
detergent stick• bandages• powder• deodorant• double-sided tape• black buttons• sanitary pads• mints/gum• makeup for touch-
ups• extra cash
• slippers or a change of shoes
• umbrellas• hairspray• hair pins• names and phone
numbers of all wedding vendors
• static cling spray• hair dryer• contact lens
solution/eye drops• nail file• nail clipper• straws (to sip drinks
without ruining lipstick)
• safety pins• black socks• earring backs
122 S. Broadway, Albert Lea 507-373-7746
M-F 9:30-5:30, Thurs. ‘till 7, Sat. 9:30-3
Brides ToDo List Set the Stage For an Exceptional Wedding Day with an Array of Colors, Papers & Styles
to Choose From at Celebrations• Invitations • Accessories • Reception Rentals & Supplies • Over 25 Napkin Colors
With Custom Imprinting available
We’re Happy to Serve You!
Twelve to Eighteen Months❏ Set the date
❏ Determine wedding budget
❏ Select wedding site
❏ Select officiant(s)
❏ Select & reserve a reception
site
❏ Choose a caterer
❏ Select ceremony musicians
❏ Select reception
entertainment
❏ Choose attendants
❏ Choose ushers and helpers
❏ Select photographer
❏ Select videographer
❏ Choose a wedding
consultant
Six to Twelve Months❏ Choose wedding style &
color
❏ Decide on the size of the
wedding
❏ Determine guest list
❏ Choose a florist
❏ Order your wedding dress
❏ Select & order bridesmaid
dresses
❏ Confirm delivery date for
dresses
❏ Update your passports, if
needed
❏ Plan rehearsal/grooms
dinner with fiance & all
parent
Three to Six Months❏ Purchase gifts for attendants
& fiance
❏ Select men’s formal wear
❏ Choose reception
decorations
❏ Reserve rented items
❏ Order invitations &
announcements
❏ Select & order the wedding
cake
❏ Purchase wedding bands
❏ Select a transportation
service
❏ Plan the honeymoon, make
reservations
❏ Register with bridal
registries
❏ Arrange out-of-town guest
accommodations
❏ Buy your trousseau
❏ Have mothers buy their
dresses
❏ Make wedding day salon
appointment
❏ Have a complete physical
exam
One to Three Months❏ Select wedding reception
music
❏ Have final dressing fittings
❏ Address wedding invitations
❏ Mail wedding invitations 4
to 6 weeks, no later than 3
weeks
❏ Get marriage license
❏ Confirm appointments &
arrangements
❏ Confirm honeymoon
arrangements
❏ Prepare and send newspaper
announcement
❏ Make arrangements for
parking, traffic
Two Weeks❏ Confirm details with
photographer and
videographer
❏ Pick up wedding rings (if
engraved)
❏ Organize your trousseau and
pack
❏ Purchase travelers checks
❏ Plan a seating arrangement
for reception
One Week❏ Talk with caterer, give final
guest count
❏ Have groom’s formal wear
fitting
❏ Have groomsmen try on and
pick up their formal wear
❏ Confirm duties and time
schedule with attendants
and helpers
❏ Finalize last minute
arrangements for music,
flowers, cake
Your Wedding Day❏ Bring your wedding guide for
important names & phone
numbers
❏ Stay calm and enjoy, this is
your wedding day!
Wedding Day Countdown
Mike Heideman • 507-383-6019 Mike Trytten • [email protected]
w
M
photobooth
• weddings
• proms
• corporate events
• trade shows
• holiday parties
• graduation
• school dances
• much more
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98 Maple St. Conger, MN
Catering to your needs
Build Your Own Wedding Package.
Call for a Consultation
507-369-5186www.jessicabstudios.com
2012 Brides Booking Now
CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMINGDowntown • Albert Lea • 377-0848
You Could Frame:• Wedding Invitations• Engagement Photos• Love Letters • Sheet Music • Parents Wedding
Photos • Flowers, etc.
Your HappilyEver After!
Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper/Tuesday, October 25, 2011/Page 8
Almost as long as there have
been bridal gowns, white or
ivory have been the colors of
choice for first-time brides. These
light hues represent the purity
and innocence of the bride.
Although a few brides-to-be
choose to forego wedding white
for something a bit more flashy
-- like pink or yellow gowns -- a
popular trend today is to wear
gowns with accents of black
or other deep colors to add
dimension to the white canvas.
Considering the groom and
groomsmen will be dressed in
black tuxedos, black accents
on a wedding gown have been
growing in popularity and add a
formal, regal look to a wedding.
Darker color embellishments can
add drama to a gown. Another
advantage is they can call out
pattern or adornments not
easily seen on a white-on-white
gown. Furthermore, deep colors
against the white backdrop of the
gown show well in photography,
particularly the black-and-white
journalistic style that is very
trendy as well.
Women shopping for bridal
gowns who are considering
colored accents should be careful
that these embellishments are
subtle and do not overwhelm
the gown -- or the person who
will be wearing it! Popular
enhancements include appliqués
on the bodice or the train of the
gown. Another idea is to select
a white gown and then tie a
black bow or sash around the
waist or put a lace shrug over
bare shoulders. Black-and-white
lace gloves are also an option
for those who want to add just a
little splash of dimension.
The same concept can be
applied to any accent color.
Burgundy or plum colors also
work well to add the contrast of
dark against light and aren't as
extreme as black. Some brides
can also opt for a paler, more
pastel shade to serve as an
accompaniment to the white
gown. Many times the accent
colors chosen are replicated
in the hue of the bridesmaids'
gowns, so the entire wedding
party looks cohesive.
Because the spectacle will
be the beauty of the gown, it's
best to carry a neutral-colored
bouquet in a small size. Or, a
black-and-white gown can be
accented with a small nosegay of
red flowers or roses.
Colorful Accents Chic for this Year's Bridal Gowns
Wedding Guide 2011
A Special Supplement To THE FREEBORN COUNTY SHOPPER October 25. 2011
Easton, MN 56025 507-787-2211 www.SilhouetteWedding.com
The perfect dressfrom every view, is
is awaiting you at
The Silhouette
Inc.
For more information or a personalized quote, contact our
Director of Sales & Events, Bryce Nelson at (507) 373-2007
Ext. 104
2200 W. 9th St., Albert Lea
507-373-2007
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