February 2014 - Watertown Daily Times
Transcription
February 2014 - Watertown Daily Times
February 2014 Featured Advertisers: Uncle Sam Boat Tours Dunn-Glass Insurance Truax & Son Insurance Gran-View Restaurant Sposa Bella Triple A Building Center River Rat Designs Vocals by Amy Rivera Cheers Design & Event Planning Kroniser’s Digital Photography Mick & Iry’s Hurlburt Tent Rentals Carbino’s Jewelry & Diamond Store Zonta Club’s Bridal Expo The Carol Lee Shoppe Bonnie Castle T&R Wines & Liquors The Freight House Restaurant C.J.’s Kegs, Cases & More Massena Rod & Gun Club Gardner’s Flooring & Furniture Gary & Aileen’s Hair Styling Potsdam Laundry & Dry Cleaner Farrand’s Flowers Party Rentals Ultimate Experience Salon Riverside Liquor bridal edition northern new york newspapers’ A Special Supplement to: • The Ogdensburg Journal • Daily Courier-Observer • Brockville Recorder & Times • Cornwall Standard Freeholder and online at www.ogd.com & www.mpcourier.com Page 2 - Northern New York Newspapers BRIDAL EDITION February, 2014 How To Stay Energized Throughout The Day A couple’s wedding day is the culmination of months and months of planning. For most, it is one of the most memorable, magical days of their lives, filled with fond moments of time spent with close friends and family. As enjoyable as a wedding can be, most brides and grooms who have already tied the knot can attest that a wedding is a long, often tiring day. It is very easy for energy levels to wane. To ensure you have enough energy to last through to the final good-bye of the evening, follow these suggestions to remain energized. * Recognize your wedding day is a very long day. It’s possible to rise quite early in the morning to begin prepping with makeup, hair styles, wardrobe and more. If the party is an evening reception, it could last until the wee hours of the night. You may find yourself up for nearly 24 hours, when the cameras will be flashing and the video rolling throughout. Naturally, you’ll want to look your best throughout. * Get a good night’s sleep the night before. Get to bed early the night before so you will get ample sleep and look rested. It is understandable that nerves and excitement may get the best of you and make it difficult to fall asleep. If you often grow anxious and struggle to fall asleep before big events, talk to your doctor prior to the wedding to ask if you can be prescribed a one-time-only sleeping pill that will en- sure you get to sleep promptly. Do not take this medication with alcohol, and be sure to take it only if you can get a full 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Otherwise you may experience medicine hangover. * Enjoy a hearty breakfast. At breakfast on the morning of your wedding, consume a combination of carbohydrates and protein. The carbs will provide the initial burst of energy you need to get going, and the protein will keep you feeling full. A combination of whole wheat toast, fresh fruit and Greek yogurt makes for a filling start to the day. * Stay hydrated. Although drinking a lot of water can result in more frequent trips to the bathroom -- which can be cumbersome for brides wearing their gowns -- it is essential to stay hydrated. Dehydration can result in headaches, weakness and dizziness and may make you feel cranky. Be sure to consume water throughout the day. * Pack some snacks. The time between breakfast and the cocktail hour of a wedding may be significant. In your wedding “survival” kit, be sure to pack some easy When it comes to your insurance needs, Dunn-Glass and Truax is the partner you can trust. For over 75 years we’ve been helping couples start off on the right foot with the right coverage. Call now and arrange a no-obligation appointment to discuss your insurance needs and receive a free rate quote. ★ Shuttle service to and from unique ceremony and reception sites (Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, Antique Boat Museum & Casa Blanca) ★ ★ ★ ★ Rehearsal Cocktail and/or Dinner Cruises Cocktail cruise prior to reception Complete reception cruise Post reception brunch cruise Charter one of our double or triple decked vessels for your exclusive use making your special occasion truly memorable. Departing from the heart of the 1000 Islands opposite Boldt Castle. 45 James Street, Alexandria Bay 315-482-2611 www.usboattours.com snacks to eat. Trail mix can be nibbled for a boost of energy, and a banana can take the edge off of hunger pangs. Avoid anything messy that can drip onto clothing or get stuck in your teeth. Arrange to have snacks stowed in the limousine or another mode of transportation so that you can refuel on the way to the ceremony or in transit to the reception. * Don’t overdo it with caffeine. It may be tempting to lean on an energy drink or a super-size cup of coffee to give you the boost you need. But caffeine is only a temporary fix. After the effects of the caffeine wear off, you could find yourself more tired than before and crash at an inopportune time during the day. Instead, a brisk walk outdoors may recharge your batteries. Afterward, time spent on the dance floor enjoying the reception will likely stimulate some adrenaline to keep you going. * Eat dinner. When family is beckoning and the photographer needs to get yet another pose, it is easy to skip dinner. Be firm with your decision to enjoy your meal. After all, you paid for it and it should not go to waste. Besides, sitting down to dinner enables you to rest and absorb the atmosphere of the wedding. * Continue to drink plenty of water throughout the night. Alcoholic beverages may be flowing, but too many spirits can compromise your energy levels. Life • Auto • Home • Renters • Farm • Commercial DUNN-GLASS INSURANCE 6028 St. Hwy. 68 Ogdensburg ph. 393-3805 f. 394-8110 TRUAX & SON INSURANCE 15 North Main St. Hammond ph. 324-5951 f. 324-5527 Northern New York Newspapers BRIDAL EDITION February, 2014 - Page 3 Showers Continue To Break From Tradition Rain showers on a wedding day may bring good luck, but they are seldom coveted. However, a different type of shower altogether is often highly anticipated and can help couples feel like they’re one in a million. Wedding showers are gift-giving parties held for couples about to get married. The custom began in the nineteenth century and continues to present day, primarily in North America and Australia. Guests traditionally “shower” the bride-to-be with all the necessities (and some fun extras) that she will need after she ties the knot. These gifts will help the soon-to-be-married couple establish a home together. Bridal showers are steeped in tradition, but today’s bridal showers continue to veer off the beaten path. Nowadays, bridal showers feature fun and games much like a party having nothing to do with a wedding. TheKnot.com, a Web site that aims to help couples plan their weddings and all the events leading up to the big day, identifies these key trends in modern bridal showers. * Couples’ showers: Modern couples who like to be all-inclusive are now planning bridal showers that cater to mixed audiences. Dubbed a “couple shower,” these parties include female and male friends and relatives. Gifts are still the main focus of the event, but they’re varied and include guy-friendly items within the mix of household goods. * Power showers: Many are familiar with the terms “man cave” and “bromance,” but few may know that there are now wedding showers geared entire- Fine Dining On The St. Lawrence At the GRAN-VIEW Restaurant - the only thing we overlook is the St. Lawrence River. 315-393-4550 Rt. 37 S. Ogdensburg A Romantic Tradition A wedding reception at the Gran-View or catered to your home is a tradition to be remembered. Our restaurant overlooks the beautiful St. Lawrence River and can accommodate up to 350 in an attractive setting with our Inn to house your guests. Just call or stop in and tell us your wishes. Our cuisine and service is sure to add the finishing touches to the most beautiful day of your life. ly around the groom. Known as “power showers,” these events focus on the groom-to-be, who is showered with a bevy of gadgets and power tools that are certain to stock his future garage. The parties are decidedly more testosteronefriendly and can include golf outings, poker nights or action movie flicks as possible themes. * Destination/activity showers: Rather than having guests hang around a restaurant watching gift after gift get unwrapped, some bridal parties opt to throw an activity shower. These showers are focused around a particular activity. For example, ladies may be treated to a day at the spa. Other ideas include horseback riding at a stable or a day at the ballpark. Because hosting an activity shower for dozens of people may get expensive, these types of showers may be reserved for only your closest friends and family members. * Bride-involved showers: The idea of walking into a room and being surprised by friends and family members is appealing to some brides-to-be but not everyone. Some brides prefer not to be surprised by a shower and actually would like to have a role in the planning of the party. However, this is delicate ground on which to tread, considering there may be differences over where the party is held and even the overall experience of the party. These type of showers should be discussed before any plans are made, and tasks should delegated in accordance with those plans. It is customary for a bridal shower to take place before a wedding. But new trends have emerged that are shaking up the way showers are planned and held. Page 4 - Northern New York Newspapers BRIDAL EDITION February, 2014 Tips When Toasting The Bride And Groom Toasting the bride and groom at a wedding reception is a responsibility that typically falls on the shoulders of the bride’s father as well as the best man and the maid of honor. Though it is an honor to give a wedding toast, it also can be nerve-wracking, as no one wants to give a toast that’s memorable for all the wrong reasons. While the best toasts are often those that veer off the beaten path, coming from the heart rather than from a how-to guide found on the Internet, there is a certain formula men and women can follow to ensure their toasts cover all of the appropriate bases without offending the bridal party or fellow guests. * Acknowledge the guests. Families are more geographically diverse than ever before, so more and more weddings host guests who come from far and wide to celebrate with happy couples on their wedding days. It’s customary for men and women making wedding toasts to acknowledge the guests, thanking them for being there. This is often a great way for best men and maids of honor to break the ice and calm their nerves, especially at larger weddings where they may only know a small percentage of the guests. When thanking the guests, be sure to thank the parents of the bride and groom as well. * Explain your relationship to the bride and/or groom. Best men and maids of honor should devote a portion of their toasts to explaining their personal relationships with the bride and/or groom. Introduce yourself and explain how you met the bride or groom. Oftentimes, such stories have a comical twist that can further calm your nerves. * Aim for a jovial toast. Wedding toasts are typically given at the wedding reception, when guests and the bridal party are ready to celebrate. Such an atmosphere lends itself to a jovial toast wherein best men and maids of honor focus on happy times with the bride and groom. Tell a funny anecdote that illustrates the special bond you have with the bride or groom. When choosing a story to tell, remember to keep things appropriate for guests of all ages, including young children. * Steer clear of alcohol before giving your toast. Many people overindulge in alcohol at wedding receptions, but best men and maids of honor should avoid consuming alcohol until after they have toasted the bride and groom. Horror stories about drunken, inappropriate wedding toasts may seem more like an urban legend than a legitimate possibility, but the tendency for alcohol to lower people’s inhibitions makes it dangerous for men and women to consume it before giving their toasts. * Give your best wishes to the bride and groom before raising your glass. Raising your glass to toast the bride and groom is often the last step before your toasting duties officially end. But before you raise your glass, remember to offer your best wishes to both the bride and groom. Once those sentiments have been expressed, ask the guests to raise their glasses and toast the newlyweds. Toasting happy couples at their wedding receptions can be stressful for best men and maids of honor who are unaccustomed to speaking in front of large groups of people. But following a certain formula and speaking from the heart will ensure such toasts go off without a hitch. BRIDE’S GUIDE YOUR DIRECT LINK TO WEDDING PROFESSIONALS AROUND THE AREA Personalized Gifts • Embroidery • Laser Engraving • Screen Printing Champagne/Wine Glasses, Picture Frames & More! River Rat Designs 1801 Ford St. Ogdensburg • 393-4770 riverratdesign.com Acoustic/Vocals by Amy Rivera for your Bridal Events’ Cocktail Hour Classic Rock Modern Country 315-869- 2086 Northern New York Newspapers In Downtown Potsdam BRIDAL EDITION February, 2014 - Page 5 Mick And Iry’s - A New Banquet Venue BY PAUL MITCHELL POTSDAM - Planning a wedding, baby shower, birthday party, post-game celebration? There’s a new a banquet venue that can accommodate up to 250 people now available for rent in downtown Potsdam. It’s called Mick and Iry’s and located above Between the Buns, 6 Elm Street. Owner Megan E. Martin said the upstairs banquet hall is a perfect fit with the successful Between the Buns restaurant, and is already being booked. Co-owner Marc C. Morley performed the renovation work. “We have customized menus and a full service bar that can accommodate any function,” Ms. Martin said. “We will cater to any event from wedding receptions to birthday parties to small private parties.” “You have to see it in person to appreciate the decor. It’s the perfect place to hold your next party,” she said. And the staff at Mick & Iry’s is prepared to meet the needs of its clientele. “It’s all top quality food,” said Matthew C. Cressey, executive chef. “We will be happy to work with people on what food they want and how much they want to spend.” Mick and Iry’s also plans to host comedy acts, local bands and DJs, UFC fight nights, always striving to provide quality entertainment and, of course, delicious food for the public. She also welcomed civic organizations and athletic booster clubs to the facility, noting the Potsdam Lions Club now meets there. Mick and Iry’s also has several largescreen televisions. A smaller “Silver Room” on the third floor is an ideal setting for baby showers, birthday parties and private parties. “Mick and Iry’s is the place for any occasion, and it’s an attractive setting,” stated Ms. Martin, adding that capacity wise, it’s one of the largest venues in the area. The upstairs banquet room is completely separate from the downstairs restaurant. For bookings or more information, Kroniser’s Digital Photography Offers Quality, Friendly Service If you are searching for quality photography, you don’t need to search that far. Stacia Kroniser a 1994 Graduate of Edwards-Knox and mother of 4 children, introduced this past year. Kroniser’s Digital Photography. Experience a photo session in her brand new studio located in St. Lawrence County. “I have always loved photography and about 8 years ago, with a large family and the cost of professional photos being so expensive, I decided to start taking my children’s pictures myself. This led to taking pictures for family and friends and then a wedding or anniversary or two. This led me to where I am today. I de- cided with my children growing up and following their own paths it was time for me to pursue my passion and start a new journey.” Not only will you have the pleasure of meeting Stacia, should you book a session, you will also get to meet her family as they also love to take pictures. Currently Stacia’s daughter, Brianna is helping her on shoots and will be working alongside her mom at weddings. Give Stacia a call if you are interested in having engagement, senior, family, newborn, infant, pregnancy or wedding photos taken. “We’d love to have our family capture your families’ special moments.” call Daniel E. Martin, general manager, at 265-8888 or 224-9095. The Potsdam business has also introduced the Between the Buns BrewMasters Society. By joining, members will receive a half gallon BrewMasters Society growler and mug, a free beer on their birthday, a $20 gift card on their anniversary and an invitation to enjoy a weekly tasting of a designated draft beer. Purchases will earn members points good for free merchandise. Mr. Martin said the society will conduct monthly beer and food pairings, an event that features a Brewery of the Month paired with creations by Chef Cressey. Tickets will be sold prior to events and only be available to members of BTB BrewMasters Society. People interested in joining the society can pick up a membership for it at Between the Buns. Ms. Martin and Mr. Morley are also owners of the Hot Tamale restaurants in Canton and Potsdam. Your Wedding Every moment. Every detail. Beautiful two level wedding and reception rooms for intimate celebrations up to 200 guests. Expert catering executives to help plan your menu and every detail. Book now. • Rehearsal Dinners • Private Parties • Holiday Parties 6 Elm St. Potsdam NY • 315-265-8888 Page 6 - Northern New York Newspapers BRIDAL EDITION February, 2014 Destination Wedding: Things To Consider According to a study from XO Group Inc., creator of wedding Web sites TheKnot.com and WeddingChannel. com, 350,000 destination weddings take place annually. Such figures reflect a growing trend of couples who want to tailor their weddings to their own personalities, even if that means tying the knot in exotic or unusual locales. But as popular as destination weddings have become, couples who have had have such weddings can attest that planning a destination wedding is not necessarily easier than planning a more traditional ceremony close to home. Though destination weddings can make for memorable affairs, there are some factors couples must consider when mulling whether or not to have a destination wedding. Guest List The XO Group study found that destination weddings have an average of 86 guests. When sitting down to organize their guest lists, many couples realize they have well over 100 guests on their lists. Such couples may find a destination wedding especially difficult to pull off, as resorts may or may not be able to accommodate such a substantial number of guests. In addition, couples who hope to invite children to their weddings might want to reconsider a destination affair, as those youngsters’ parents will have to foot the bill for additional airfare and accommodations and, depending on when the wedding takes place, pull the kids out of school for an extended period of time. Couples with smaller guests list might find a destination wedding much more manageable than those whose guest lists crack triple digits. Another thing to consider is that the larger the guest list, the more likely many of those guests will not be able to afford to attend or get enough time off from work to make it to a destination wedding. Accessibility Accessibility is a common concern for couples considering destination weddings. Destination weddings typically ask guests to travel far to attend the ceremony and reception, but there are ways to make that travel less of an ordeal. When choosing a location for their destination weddings, couples should consider the cost and convenience of travel. Remote islands are not very accessible, and as a result guests will likely have to pay a pretty penny for their flights and lodging. In addition, the more remote a destination wedding locale is, the less convenient getting there figures to be. Nonstop flights likely won’t be a possibility. Before choosing a locale for a destination wedding, research flights, making sure that affordable flights are available within spitting distance of loved ones’ homes and that they won’t have to suffer through multiple connecting flights when traveling to and from the wedding. Weather Weather is another factor couples must consider before choosing to have a destination wedding. The XO Group study found that 30 percent of American couples who have destination weddings choose to tie the knot Professionalism and Commitment to Quality Since 1970 www.HurlbutTentRental.com outside of the continental United States. That’s a distinct disadvantage for couples who likely are not very familiar with weather patterns overseas. Couples who choose outdoor weddings close to home are often familiar enough with local weather patterns to choose a wedding date that likely won’t be interrupted by harsh weather. But choosing an overseas or distant locale erases that comfort level, and couples may find themselves worrying about storms or other inclement weather conditions as their wedding days draw nearer. Largest Inventory of Tents and Accessories in the North Country • Round Tables • White Chairs • Dance Floor • Banquet Tables 315-764-0376 •French Window Sides • Chandelier Lighting • Delivery, set-up & take down by experienced staff MASSENA, NY Planning A Wedding? Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, Ogdensburg Area Zonta Club, Ogdensburg Boys & Girls Club, 96.7 YES-FM, Q Country 102.9, PAC 98.7, 95.3 The Wolf, The Ogdensburg Journal and Ogdensburg Bridge & Port Authority invite you to the Rediscovering Your Backyard Bridal Expo Sunday, February 23, 2014 11am-4pm 120 Commerce Park Drive, Building #1 (in the former Brecon Ridge/Mitel Building, just past the St. Lawrence Federal Credit Union) In the Ogdensburg Bridge & Port Authority Commerce Park, just off Route 37, last exit before Ogdensburg/Prescott International Bridge Over 70 North Country Vendors! Fashion Show! Cake Dive! (Worth $300. Cash) Admission $2 per person Proceeds will benefit Zonta Club of Ogdensburg Member of Zonta International Advancing the Status of Women Worldwide Northern New York Newspapers BRIDAL EDITION February, 2014 - Page 7 What To Expect With A Civil Ceremony Many people dream of a wedding in a church or synagogue before dozens of family members and friends, while there are others who prefer to forgo the fanfare of a large wedding ceremony and are content with a civil wedding instead. C ivil ceremonies are often a choice for couples who may have different religious beliefs or do not belong to a particular religious persuasion. In lieu of being presided over by a pastor, priest or rabbi, civil ceremonies are conducted by an authorized official, such as a judge or justice of the peace. The marriage also can be performed by a licensed wedding officiant. Depending on where a couple lives, mayors or even notary publics can solemnize a marriage. Pilots and ship captains also may be able to preside over the ceremony. Some states and provinces will allow anyone to solemnize a wedding, provided they have filed for a special permit for the day. In terms of location, the most basic of civil ceremonies take place at the county courthouse, where paperwork is immediately filed. Ceremonies also occur at City Hall. Couples can choose to hire an officiant to go to another location to oversee the marriage ceremony. The latter is the more expensive option and will be based on the officiant's schedule. The structure of a civil marriage is much more lax than those which follow the more traditional course. Rather than being required to wear a certain wardrobe or meet with the requirements of a particular church or other house of worship, couples often find flexibility with the civil route. Although some brides and grooms prefer to wear a tuxedo or suit and a wedding gown, it is not necessary to do so. There are many couples who have tied the knot in more casual clothing or even costumes. In order to participate in a civil ceremony, couples must secure a marriage license. The Carol Lee Shoppe in downtown We have a spa located in the back of This is usually obtained by a county regisPotsdam has been in business for more the shoppe with services that include trar or another officer of records where the than 30 years. pedicures, manicures, waxing, facials, couple lives. Regulations will vary as to the The shoppe carries clothing, jewelry, a haircuts and hairstyles. It is one stop time period in which the ceremony can be natural perfume line, prom gowns, bridal shopping. done after the mariage license is received. The Carol Lee Shoppe has a new team of Some licenses may be voided if the couple gowns, bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos, special occasion and cocktail dresses. bridal and fashion consultants available to does not tie the knot within a few days of This year is an exciting year as we are help you whether you are planning your securing the license. expanding our plus size collection of wedding or attending a special occasion. When the ceremony will take place is dresses as well as adding more gifts to the We look forward to working with you and generally up to the couple and, if a member Shoppe. We have also added a traveling giving you personalized customer service. of the judiciary will be overseeing the wedtuxedo service as well as an on-line Stop by or call to book an appointment at ding, the courthouse. Some courts require shopping experience for both clothing, 315-265-4426. an appointment for the wedding, while Follow us on Facebook. bridal and prom wear. others may have a walk-in policy. ‘The Carol Lee Shoppe:’ One Stop Shopping The Carol Lee Shoppe boutique & full service bridal shoppe You’ll our... Love • Prices • Packages • Discounts • Selection • Personal Service 69 Market Street, Potsdam, NY 315-265-4426 There is often a fee collected for the wedding ceremony in addition to what was paid for the marriage license. For those hiring a private officiant, the fee will be much higher than what a clerk of the court will cost. The couple will need to bring the marriage license and photo identification. Two witnesses also will need to be present with their own photographic identification. These witnesses will be needed to sign the marriage certificate. Because there is no firm tradition with civil ceremonies, couples may need to be more hands-on when it comes to executing the wedding. Here are some tips to consider. * An officiant may not organize the wedding, meaning it will be up to the couple to choose vows, arrange where people will stand, request any clerical blessings, or include any other special elements. * Some officiants enjoy presiding over weddings, while others see it as just a part of public duty. Couples can try to find an officiant who meets with their approval and will keep with the tone that is expected of the ceremony. * Know how many people can attend the ceremony in advance. Couples should recognize that space could be limited and restricted to only a few people if the wedding is taking place at the courthouse. Page 8 - Northern New York Newspapers BRIDAL EDITION February, 2014 Roles Of The Best Man And Maid Of Honor Being chosen as a best man or a maid of honor is a significant and meaningful honor. Those roles have evolved over the years, but these special participants must still perform some of the traditional duties of the past, including serving as the official witnesses to the ceremony. The following is a rundown of the various duties maids of honor and best men are now expected to handle once they’re chosen for these distinguished honors. Prior To The Wedding Before the wedding takes place, the maid of honor will closely assist the bride-to-be with many of the important decisions related to the look and the feel of the wedding. She typically accompanies the bride to dress shops to select gowns for the bride and bridesmaids. Much in the same manner, the best man will assist the groom- to-be with choosing tuxedoes or suits and also with coordinating with the ushers to ensure they know when to go for fittings. Although the best man will serve as a sounding board for the groom, traditionally the bride and her bridesmaids have taken on the majority of the wedding planning, so the maid of honor can expect to play a larger role than the best man. The maid of honor may be asked to delegate certain assignments, such as helping to find wedding vendors or addressing invitations. She may go with the bride for makeup and hairstyle trials. Together with the bridesmaids, she will plan a bridal shower party and a bachelorette excursion. She may select a wedding gift for the couple and present it on behalf of all the wedding attendants. The best man will coordinate the bach- elor party and may be asked to assist the groom with selecting a honeymoon site or to come along to book the trip. Wedding Day On the day of the wedding, the maid of honor and the best man will act as a support system for the bride and groom. The maid of honor will help the bride get dressed and help iron out any miniemergencies that should crop up. The best man will help ensure all of the ushers are dressed and get the groom to the wedding on time. During the ceremony, the maid of honor will hold the bride’s bouquet while she participates in the wedding. The best man will keep the rings safe until they are needed. The maid of honor also will help adjust the bride’s train and veil as she sits and stands during the ceremony. Both will sign the marriage certificate as witnesses. At the reception, the best man is expected to give a toast and the maid of honor may share some words as well. She also may accompany the bride to the restroom and assist her with managing the gown. After The Wedding The best man will be in charge of returning the tuxedoes to the rental shop, if necessary. He also may drive the newly married couple to the airport so they can depart on their honeymoon. The maid of honor will assist the bride in changing out of her gown and into her travel clothes. Oftentimes the maid of honor takes the gown to the cleaners in the days following the ceremony so the dress can be preserved. Make Guests Feel Special With Extra Touches Wedding receptions run the gamut from small, intimate gatherings in a restaurant to large spectacles featuring hundreds of guests inside a banquet hall. At the heart of any wedding reception is the desire to present a memorable party for all in attendance. That being said, there are some steps couples can take to add extra indulgence to wedding receptions and really set them apart from the mundane. With the average cost of weddings now teetering around $28,000, couples certainly are pulling out expensive stops to treat guests to a good party. Although some may argue that spending tens of thousands of dollars on a one-time event is preposterous, there are scores of couples who want to splurge on an event that (hopefully) will be a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence. With this in mind, many want to add special touches to the wedding that will show guests how much they are appreciated and to make their celebration different from previous weddings. Here are some ways to do just that. * Butler-passed hors d’oeuvres: During the cocktail hour guests are mingling and taking advantage of the opportunity to engage T&R in conversation. This may be the last real opportunity to chat amongst one another before the volume of the band or deejay drowns out discussions. Rather than disrupt the flow of conversation to make a trip to the food stations, choose butler-passed hors d’oeuvres to bring food right to the guests. * Valet parking: Most wedding venues provide on-site valet parking. However, if you’re using a restaurant or banquet hall that does not provide this service, you can hire a valet company to do the parking for guests. While you will be whisked to and fro in the back of a limousine, guests will have to do their own driving. Being able to exit the car right in front of the venue and not worry about finding a parking space will be convenient for guests. * Emergency toiletries baskets: Rather than spending money on an extra floral arrangement for the men’s and women’s restrooms, purchase items that can be grouped into a handy basket. For women, include items such as extra pairs of stockings, spray deodorant, sanitary items, and sewing kits. For men, mints or mouthwash, dental floss, cologne, and stain removal pens may come Wines & Liquors Potsdam’s Largest Selection of Wines & Champagne Gladly Accommodating Your Special Save Order for on Your all Special Wine & Champagne Day! by the Case 20% small bottles available on a huge variety of wines M-Th 10am-9pm, Fri & Sat 10am-10pm, Sun. Noon-5pm 315-268-1302 145 Market St. • Potsdam SeaComm Plaza in handy. In the event that a minor mishap occurs during the wedding, guests will have items at their disposal to remedy it. * Specialty courses: In addition to the cocktail hour and the main meal, you may be able to arrange specialty stations for guests with particular palates or interests. Some couples like to have a cigar smoking area or you can offer specialty cocktails. When ethnic customs are included in a wedding, menu items can be geared around native dishes. Candy and dessert bars are also popular to have at weddings, particularly if children are invited. * Overnight accommodations: For the wedding that will run into the wee hours of the morning, offer guests a place to stay nearby to remove the hassle of driving home at a late hour. Some reception halls have arrangements with nearby hotels. For those that don’t, negotiate a discounted rate for wedding guests. Accomodations for all your Bridal Events www.thefreighthouserestaurant.com Best Selection for all your Bridal Beverage Needs REHEARSALS • RECEPTION • Domestic & Imported Beer • Cold Kegs (1/2 & 1/4’s) • Soda & Ice SeaComm Plaza Market Street • Potsdam 265-0226 C.J.’s Kegs, Cases, & More Northern New York Newspapers BRIDAL EDITION February, 2014 - Page 9 Tips For Newlyweds When Merging Finances . . Newlyweds often have a lot on their plates upon returning from their honeymoons. One of the more critical issues newly married couples must address is their finances and how those finances will be combined going forward. Combining finances can be a touchy subject for many couples, especially those who had not given much thought to their finances prior to tying the knot. But there are steps couples can take to make the process of merging finances go more smoothly. * Discuss finances early and often. Allowing finances to be the elephant in the room is a mistake, as couples do not want to begin their lives together treading lightly around an issue as significant as finances. Couples should discuss their expenditures and spending habits as early as possible, as one of the biggest hurdles newly married couples must clear is coming to grips with one another’s financial habits. If such habits have already been discussed, then developing a financial plan will be much easier once that time comes. When discussing finances, define both short-term and longterm goals and how each of you can .. The Perfect Setting Some starting at Starting at $729 Cash-n-Carry See store for details Carolina Furniture Now % 25OFF Sofa, Chair, 3 Tables, 2 Lamps • Two Sided Special Edge • Heavy Duty Coil Unit Was Located at 155 Patterson rd. (off nYs rt 37) LouisviLLe, nY .. $339 Months No Interest! 7 Pc Sofa Set.....$999 ★ A place with plenty of parking and is air conditioned for your comfort. ★ Alcoholic Beverages Include Wine & Beer Only A MEMBER OF THE WEDDING PARTY MUST BE ASSOCIATED WITH A MEMBER OF OUR CLUB. POWER RECLINERS 12 RECLINERS Massena Rod & Gun Club Call us at (315) 769-3205 to book your date for your special party. expenses. When opening a joint account, discuss how much and how often each partner will contribute money. One partner might earn considerably more money than another, so work out a reasonable agreement that details how much each partner will contribute each month, and whether such contributions will be made on a weekly, biweekly or monthly basis. * Make concessions for one another. When merging finances, couples often discover that they don’t see eye-to-eye on how each person spends money. Couples who successfully merge their finances often note the importance of making concessions with regard to their partners’ spending on certain hobbies or luxuries. As long as those hobbies are not putting couples in debt or jeopardizing their financial goals, couples can make concessions so their partners continue to be happy and enjoy their favorite activities. Merging finances is an issue that looms for many newlyweds or couples about to tie the knot. Though it’s not always easy, merging finances early and discussing goals can ensure newlyweds get off on the right financial foot. We are the Dealer in St. Lawrence County! For Your Wedding... www.massenarodandgunclub.com • Weddings • Rehearsal Dinners • Showers • Birthdays • ANY Occasion • Facilities for up to 180 People adjust your spending habits to make those goals come true. * Pay off any debts. The cost of weddings has skyrocketed over the last several decades, and many newlyweds find themselves in a considerable amount of debt upon returning from their honeymoons. When merging finances, couples should prioritize paying down such debt, as debt is a significant source of stress for newlyweds and long-married couples alike. Newly married couples with little or no debt should avoid spending above their means in the months after they get married. Such spending is commonplace, as newly married couples often want to fully furnish their new homes or reward themselves for pulling off their weddings. But new debt can be just as stressful on a marriage as debt from the wedding, so avoid this potentially problematic pitfall by paying down existing debts with your newly merged finances. * Make note of mutual expenses and open a joint account to pay for those expenses. Mutual expenses like mortgage payments, food and utilities should be the responsibility of each partner, and a joint account should be established to handle such $419 ON SALE $419* Was $519 ON SALE $519* Was $619 ON SALE $619* Gardner’s Starting at Was $349 $919 ON SALE $919* Cash-n-Carry Entertainment FLOORING & Centers On $ FURNITURE Some Sale For 364 *Sale prices incl. mismatched box . . Glider Rockers The name you can trust, with the best prices! www.gardnersflooringandfurniture.com 325 Cedar Street • Ogdensburg • 393-6488 M.-Th. 8am-5pm; Fri. 8am-7pm Sat. 9am-3pm Page 10 - Northern New York Newspapers BRIDAL EDITION February, 2014 Tips For Writing Your Own Wedding Vows A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event for many couples, so brides and grooms wish for the event to be momentous and memorable. As such, couples are increasingly integrating personal nuances into their ceremonies and receptions to tailor weddings to their unique visions. The desire to include personalized wedding vows continues to be a popular trend. If you are considering personalized wedding vows, first realize that it may not be a simple task. That’s because you want the message conveyed to be dear to your heart, and that can be challenging when faced with the pressures and planning of the rest of the wedding. That isn’t to say that writing your own vows is impossible. Here are some guidelines for personalizing your ceremony with your own sentiments. * Schedule time for writing. Amid the bustle of dress fittings and interviews with photographers, it can be easy to put off the important task of writing vows for another day. But as any great writer can attest, it takes writing -- and rewriting -- to achieve a finished product you can be proud of. Give the task of writing your vows your undivided attention. Mark it in on your calendar or set a reminder on your computer just as you would any other appointment. * Be aware of ceremony guidelines. It is best to check with your officiant and confirm that personalized wedding vows are allowed. During civil ceremonies it’s often acceptable to customize vows as you see fit. However, during religious ceremonies there may be lines of scripture that need to be read or certain passages required. Before you spend hours working on the task, be sure that it is allowed and that your spouse and you are on the same page. * Jot down your feelings. Answer some questions about what marriage means to you and how you feel about your spouse. Try to avoid trite sayings and think from your heart and personal experiences. Think about what is the most important thing you want to promise to your future partner. These notes can serve as the starting points for the actual vows. * Establish an outline. Put together all of the words and phrases you’ve jotted down into an outline to help you organize the flow of the vows, using these words as a blueprint for the vows and building upon them. Make sure the vows will be concise. Aim for your entire speech to be around 1 minute in length to keep everyone engaged and the ceremony moving along. * Put everything together. Draft your vows and then practice them by reading out loud. You want to avoid long sentences or anything that trips you up. Although large words may sound impressive, they could make the vows seem too academic and not necessarily heartfelt. Enlist the help of a friend or two to act as your audience to see if the vows sound good and are easily understandable. Writing your own vows can be a way to include personal expressions of love into a couple’s wedding day. Public speaking is seldom easy, nor is finding the perfect words to convey feelings about a future spouse. However, with some practice and inspiration, anyone can draft personalized vows. * Read inspirational writings. Perhaps there is an author or a poet who inspires you? You can quote certain writers in your vows or let the tone of their works help shape the words of your vows. There also are suggested wedding readings and other quotes about marriage readily available at the library or with a quick search online. * Decide on a tone. Although the day is based on love and affection, you may not feel comfortable From first glance to spouting words of adoration in front of friends last dance we’ll create a and family. Feel free to tap wedding day look that holds into your unique personality. Humor can be used if up beautifully it aligns with the way you Hair • Makeup • Manicures • Pedicures normally express your afWaxing • Tanning fections. Be sure to weave this tone into more traditional passages to create 630 Canton a cohesive expression of Street ogdenSburg your feelings. The Perfect Package Keepsafe Wedding Gown Box • The unique Viewing Window lets you look at your dress without disturbing the packaging. • Our sturdy Double-reinforced Construction prevents your gown from being crushed or damaged. Reserve your gown as soon as possible to preserve. A lifetime of Memories Potsdam Laundry & Dry Cleaners 7 Beal St., Potsdam, NY • Tel. (315) 265-3765 • Fax (315) 265-3801 enduring beauty ENDURING BEAUTY 393-3888 • Weddings • Showers • Rehearsals • Parties We’ll coordinate all stages of your event from start to finish We’ll help as little or as much as you need! 25 $ Take advantage of this special offer & Event Planning “We take care of the Details and Dynamics with heart!” OFF Your Bridal Bouquet with any floral wedding order! 1031 Paterson St., Ogdensburg 393-5310 farrandsflowers.com Northern New York Newspapers BRIDAL EDITION February, 2014 - Page 11 Could Be Cost-Effective To Purchase Tuxedos Gentlemen getting ready to tie the knot will have to make certain wardrobe choices so they look their best on their big days. Although many grooms-to-be rent tuxedos on their wedding days, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a tuxedo. Tuxedos are the ultimate formal wear for men. Worn at formal gatherings like proms, weddings and lavish parties, tuxedos have undergone several style changes over the years. Men interested in looking polished will find no option makes that impression more convincingly than the right tuxedo. Men frequently called upon to attend formal events may find purchasing a tuxedo is a wise investment. There are several advantages to owning a tux rather than renting one time and again. Tuxedos typically cost around $1,000, whereas renting tuxedos can be $200 or more each time, making it advantageous for men who frequently don tuxedos to purchase their own rather than rent. Another advantage to owning a tuxedo is the opportunity to wear a tux that is custom-made and tailored just for you. Instead of a rental that will merely be stitched temporarily to fit your measurements, a tuxedo you purchase will be tailored specifically to your body, increasing comfort and making you look better as well. Men who buy their own tuxedos also can choose the style, fabric, color, buttons, accessories, and type of lapels on the jacket. A tuxedo store may have more styles available for sale than for rent. If you desire something that fits your personality and your physique perfectly, buying your own tuxedo may be your best bet. Men worried about purchasing a tuxedo only to see their waistlines increase or decrease should keep in mind that many tuxedo shops offer free tailoring for as long as you own the tuxedo. When purchasing a tuxedo, men should choose classic styles and colors so they can enjoy the tux for years to come. Opt for a slim-fitting white shirt underneath ‘Ultimate Experience’ Reveals Secret Wedding season is fast approaching and with it the challenge for brides everywhere to get all the details in order so that they can try to relax before the big day. It is the same goal at Ultimate Experience Salon in Gouverneur, to get all the details so we can make each bride special and unique. Over the years we have had a plethora of styles created for exquisite looks but one of the best kept secrets of a stylist is now a forefront in style - clip in hair extensions. These easily applied extensions can transform any style to a more luxurious, comment worthy style. Advice for all brides: at least 2 months prior to your wedding, consult with your stylist (that you have hopefully booked at least a year prior for your wedding) and have them order extensions in your color and length desired. The reason for advance ordering is that some custom coloring may be needed for the extensions and time is needed to accomplish this to perfection, also there may be some cutting needed to make them lay perfectly with your style. One red flag: when ordering extensions be sure the person ordering them knows to look for HUMAN REMY EXTENSIONS, many companies are now using synthetic fillers that can be curled or flat ironed BUT NOT COLORED!!! Keep in mind, there are many details that can make you wedding style perfect (makeup, eyelash extensions/strips, eyebrow waxing, hair color, etc.). You should make sure that the stylist you choose can help direct you when making choices as to what would be your best decision. Happy Wedding Day everyone! Ultimate Experience FULL SERVICE SALON Book Your Wedding Experience Now! 202 West Main St., Gouverneur, NY • 315-287-1162 that won’t billow out when jackets are removed. Men who want to break from tradition can opt for a shirt that is a pale blue or light gray to wear under the jacket. This is still an understated look, but one with a hint of creativity. A classic, black bow tie is an ideal match when purchasing a more classic tuxedo. The bow tie is back in a big way, and men who want to spice things up can purchase more traditional neckties for those occasions when they don’t want to wear bow ties. Tuxedos come with different lapel styles, and it’s important to know the differences. Today’s most popular style is the notch lapel, wherein a triangular indentation is cut where the lapel joins the collar. This lapel mimics the shape of a classic suit. A peak lapel is the quintessential classic, featuring a broad, V-shaped lapel that points up and out just below the collar line. A shawl lapel is a smooth, rounded edge lapel. The shawl lapel reached the height of its popularity in the 1950s, but it can still look good today. We Rent Everything You Need For Any Event 27 Years of Professional and Reliable Service Tents, Dance Floors, Tables, Chairs, Linens, Place Settings and Much More. 780 W.Main Watertown, NY • (315)788-5097 www.partyrentalsplus.com Celebrate Your Wedding Day... with Family, Friends, Food and Spirits • Gift Certificates Available Riverside Liquor A Little Something for Every Occasion 37 Riverside Dr., Canton • 386-2721 10% EVERYODFAF Y for case pu rc h & seniors ases Page 12 - Northern New York Newspapers BRIDAL EDITION NORTHERN NEW YORK NEWSPAPERS' EWSPAPER Engagement Form www.ogd.com www.mpcourier.com Engagement announcements are printed every Sunday. Engagement announcements and photos must be submitted by 2 p.m. Friday for publication at the end of the following week to any of our offices: Ogdensburg Canton Massena 308 Isabella St. 1 Main St. Suite 103 1 Harrowgate Commons ph: 315-393-1003 ph: 315-386-3571 ph: 315-769-2451 fx: 315-393-5108 fx: 315-386-2855 fx: 315-764-0337 journal@ogd.com pdealer@ogd.com courier@ogd.com Information will be edited to conform to our style. Print or type information. Use full names, middle initials and street addresses. Clear, glossy, color or black-and-white photos of either the bride-to-be or the engaged couple will be accepted. Photographs will be returned if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope or maybe picked up at any papers courtesy desk Full name of the bride-to-be and her address:______________________________________ Bride’s parents’ names and their address. (Indicate if separated, deceased or stepparents.):______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Fiancé’s name in full and his address__________________________________________________ Fiancé’s parents’ names and their address. (Indicate if separated, deceased or stepparents.):_____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Specify who is announcing the engagement, the couple, the bride’s parents, her fiancé’s parents, both their parents or another adult relative.____________________________ Education: Bride-to-be (Indicate whether attended or graduated, location of school, dates of graduation and degrees.):________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Employment, including location:______________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Date of wedding:__________________________________________________________ Confirmation of this information or more information may be obtained by calling:________________ Signature:___________________________________________________________________ Daytime telephone number (between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m.):________________________________ February, 2014