1. style and fashion
2. clothing
3. wedding dresses

To Have and To Hold
2014 Wedding Guide for the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula
Over the Top Catering &
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Thurs. - Sat.: 9-6
Our Event Coordinator has the ability to translate your dreams into
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We have a large selection of event rentals: tables, linens,
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[email protected]
www.overthetopcatering.vpweb.com
(804) 577-3364
804-445-TUNA (8862)
We have all of your meat and seafood needs
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3
2014 • Wedding Guide
Sparkling rings come in spades at Jack of Diamonds jewelry
By Nicholas Vandeloecht
For the life-changing engagement, the
big wedding that’s around the corner or
a surprise gift for that special someone,
Kilmarnock-based Jack of Diamonds is
offering a nearly infinite selection of jewelry options based on customers’ personal
needs and desires.
As he delved more into the diamond
business, in which he started back in 1992,
and his clientele expanded, owner John
R. “Jack” Smith noticed a need for the
actual design of pieces for the gems and
diamonds that he was selling.
From there, Smith entered into the
design and production aspects of making
jewelry, and Jack of Diamonds spread
primarily through word of mouth.
“Over the years, I’ve developed a
very loyal customer base in various locations across the United States including
Maryland, Delaware, Ohio, Tennessee,
California, Texas, Colorado, Arizona,
Vermont, and The District of Columbia,”
said Smith.
“My jewelry creations are well known
in Virginia’s ‘Horse Country’ of Loudon
and Fauquier counties.”
Smith added that he has had the opportunity to work with high-profile clients
through his business.
According to Smith, the main factors
that draw people to his business are:
Quality --- he has the finest available; selection --- there is a vast assortment of offerings tailored to individual
tastes; value, which is maximized by
lower pricing structure than traditional
jewelry stores; convenience, which is due
to his flexibility to accommodate customers’ schedules; and confidentiality.
“The purchase of jewelry is a very personal matter, and I am strongly committed
to protect the privacy of my clientele,”
said Smith.
He added he has been able to do a wide
variety of pieces due to the tremendous
array of desired styles from his customers
for everyday wear as well as weddings
and engagements.
“No two people are alike. No two couples are alike,” said Smith, who added that
styles have changed over the years with
people being drawn toward white metals
such as platinum and white gold.
He also noted that, in regards to trends
in bridal jewelry, the use of small accent
diamonds to accentuate ring designs is
currently very popular.
“These can be used in “halo” type settings where the center stone is encircled,
around the various sides of the ring, or in
combinations thereof,” said Smith, who
added that colored diamonds and gems
have become increasingly popular in bridal jewelry selections.
But pearls, particularly in the form of
Wedding Guide–2014
What’s Inside:
A historical way to tie the knot - 4, Dynamic
pair offers unique wedding services - 6
Shocking wedding facts - 7, A home-grown
wedding - 9, Celebrating your day with
nature - 11, Wedding cake evolution - 12,
Registry tips - 13, Wedding Checklist - 14,
New times means new traditions - 15.
accent pieces, continue to remain a popular classic choice, said Smith. Also, as far
as men’s jewelry is concerned, Smith said
that selections have evolved to extend far
beyond the basic wedding band, giving
today’s groom numerous options from
which to choose.
Smith said he enjoys sharing his knowledge with his customers as he feels it gives
them a significant advantage in the process
of selecting fine jewelry.
Smith also enjoys creating custom letter
openers as a personal accessory for marking special occasions such as weddings or
as gifts of endearment.
“These typically are made of fine silver with gold accents, often incorporating
diamonds or fine gems,” said Smith. “The
result is a piece that is practical, but very
personalized for the recipient, and provides
years of fond memories.”
Smith’s creations were featured on
TLC’s “A Wedding Story” with a couple whose ceremony overlooked the
Chesapeake Bay. Smith said that viewers
of the show were treated to “a taste of what
makes this area such a special place.”
Smith shared his excitement in becoming part of a very special secret whenever
a gentleman approached him about getting
an engagement ring for their significant
other. He said it was thrilling knowing that
he was only one of two people who knew
when a future groom would pop the question: the future groom and Smith himself.
He also recalled helping a gentleman
who was married for 38 years in putting
together a diamond ring for that gentleman’s wife.
According to Smith, the man told him
that when he had presented the ring to his
wife, her handbook was held higher than
normal during church on Sunday so that
the people around could glimpse her new
diamond.
While based in Kilmarnock of the
Northern Neck area, Smith said he is able
to meet with people at a place and time that
is convenient for them.
For more information or to make an
appointment with Jack of Diamonds, call
804-436-9130 or 1-800-684-8873.
Helping Brides and Grooms
Sparkle for over 20 Years!
B
E
A
U
T
Y
Fine
Jewelry
J
Custom
Designs
Jack of Diamonds
“Affording Beauty to the Wise”
804-436-9130 u 800-684-8873
By Appointment
Specializing in Certified Diamonds
Pearls and Precious Gems
As featured on TLC’s
“the Wedding Story”
W
I
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D
O
M
4
Wedding Guide • 2014
A historical way to tie the knot
By Jordan Coates
A prominent plantation setting, quaint
lodging, a rolling lawn extending to
the Potomac River, intimate, historical
settings and a full range of services is
just the beginning of what couples can
expect when planning for a wedding at
Stratford Hall Plantation near Montross.
Technically, Stratford Hall has played
host to weddings for about 300 years.
The celebrations started with Lee family
weddings and then extended to over 10
years ago, when the historical location
began as a venue for local weddings.
In a recent interview, representative Randy Stephens said the plantation offers absolutely every wedding
service. He said they have lodging, food
and beverage, catering and even their
own baker who can do wedding cakes.
They can also provide ministry as one
of their employees is ordained and has
performed weddings there in the past.
“A wedding here can be all inclusive,” Stephens said.
For anything they might not have
directly at the site, he said they take
care of the wedding party by using local
businesses. They often use Bridget’s
Bouquets for flowers and local businesses for tenting and essential systems.
“We are a supporter of using local
business,” Stephens said. He added
that wedding parties often have differing musical tastes. “Some people want
something different. We can provide a
range from locals and more.”
The Fat Finch Café and Catering is owned and
operated by Kay Campbell with 25 years experience
in the food service industry. We are well versed in
Party Planning & Catering, therefore we are able to
remove the anxiety in planning your event by taking
the time to focus on each client and tailor the menu,
décor, location, flowers, etc. We will work with your
budget, palate, and vision.
“Anything that someone
can think up that we can
do here, we will do.”
No event is too big or too small.
Pre-made party platters available.
-Randy Stephens of Stratford Hall
Stephens said they don’t offer a standard wedding package because each
wedding party has different ideas, wants
and needs. Instead they offer a large
menu of options as well as welcoming any new ideas the party may have.
“Anything that someone can think up
Stratford Hall
Make your Next event a success with Fat Finch Catering!
Call or email us today 804-333-3188 or 804-761-3479
[email protected]
We cater on and off site
HISTORICALLY, A GREAT PLACE FOR YOUR WEDDING
FULL SERVICE
 LODGING
 CATERING
 INDOOR (175)
 OUTDOOR
 WEDDING
PLANNER
Contact The Inn at Stratford Hall 804-493-1968
or [email protected]
 RECEPTIONS
 WATERFRONT
2014 • Wedding Guide
that we can do here, we will do.”
Weddings in the past have consisted of complete
weekends, with entire families arriving, a number
of events taking place, rehearsal dinners, bridal luncheons, groom’s events, ceremony and reception,
while other couples have simply rented a building for
the ceremony.
Stephens emphasized that they are very amenable to
what kind of wedding and wedding services the party
wants.
The plantation offers 21 guest houses, which have
been renovated in the past two years, and 17 different
cabins that can be rented out in season.
For wedding receptions, they have both indoor and
outdoor venues that can be used, including the historic Council House, which can hold about 200 people.
While no events can be held in the Great House, many
are held on, around and outside of it. “Many like to
get married on the steps of the Great house,” Stephens
said.
Among the activities that have taken place during
weddings at the plantation are crab boils down on the
beach, fishing on the river, hiking trails, bird watching
and groom events like skeet shooting. “Last year a
groom party held a pond fishing tournament. There are
a tremendous number of options.”
For a fee, Stephens said parties can arrange a paleontology tour and they can, of course, take an historic
tour. “Many people get here for a wedding and realize
they may have some sort of connection, so they go and
Photo courtesy Stratford Hall
Stratford provides the Dining Room as a venue for wedding receptions, or couples may choose to have an outdoor tented reception.
study their genealogy.”
Stephens said all the weddings that take place at the
plantation are unique and interesting, but one that stuck
out in his mind was one of their largest events last year.
The October wedding was for a direct descendent of
the Lee Family, whose Aunt is one of their board directors. “It was a very interesting, nice wedding.” The
couple were both Navy pilots and held wedding events
on site from Thursday through Tuesday.
Stephens said that people who have weddings at the
plantation usually have some tie to the area. Often, like
a big wedding coming up in August, folks who have
retired here have family members that come for weddings. The bride for the wedding in August has parents
who have retired to Colonial Beach and she and her
party will be coming from New York City to have her
wedding at the plantation.
The two busiest months for weddings at the plantation are May and October. However, this year they
have a wedding planned for June and August and about
five years ago hosted a big wedding at Christmas.
“Anytime we have space, we will do it,” Stephens said.
Using the venue for a wedding is usually arranged
a year or two in advance, but Stephens said they will
do weddings on short notice if there is availability. The
plantation averages eight weddings a year, but they are
hoping to double that next year. They plan to expand
marketing for weddings, attend wedding shows in the
area, connect with a wedding coordination group, and
improve their social networking to achieve this goal.
The plantation also offers services for family reunions, corporate retreats, and their summer
Grandparents camps.
Staff member Lea Henderson is the events coordinator. “She pulls all the details together and makes
them happen. It’s as complete or as hands off as
you want,” Stephens said of their wedding services.
Henderson can be reached at 804-493-1968.
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Wedding Guide • 2014
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Before the kiss,
Jackie Lawson, owners of Over the Top catering, started
construction, preparing to transform that half of the
building into a commercial kitchen, bakery and florist.
Over the top Catering is your one-stop shop for
your next event offering full-service off-premises catering, wedding and event planning, the bakery “Cakes
by Trinity,” offering made from scratch custom cakes
for any occasion and florist “ Flowers by Trinity” with
arrangements for any occasion.
Family owned and operated since inception, Over
the Top Catering has made a commitment to it’s clients:
to offer the highest quality food and services available
with comprehensive consultation prior to your special
event, complete on-site planning as well as professional
on-site staffing with set-up and display of your special
party including equipment and decorations and fresh
flowers. Over the Top Catering is staffed by professional,
well-trained, licensed servers and managers with years of
experience.
Our culinary team has the ability to transform any
event into the spectacular by adding many cutting edge
options such as a Gourmet Cheeseboard display, a showstopping Watermelon Cascade, a Chef Action carving
stations, Pasta Stations, a Smores’ action station and
many more to chose from to complete your event.
Your dream wedding shouldn’t be overwhelming.
Over the Top’s expert wedding planners are here to assist
you and make your day beautiful and carefree. We offer
Christopher Barr Photography 2012Christopher Barr Photography 2012
©2012 Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc.
©2012 Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc.
On Friday, January 31 Over the Top Catering will be This partnership is an added benefit to clients hiring Over
holding its Grand Opening 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
the Top for their event and Tbonz and Tuna coordinating
During the event, the showroom will be set up dis- their wine selections for the event
playing several of the hottest stations and have samples
It started last March when Pat & Brittany Hilton menfor guest to taste. The showroom will be set up similar tioned to their customers that they were looking to rent
to a reception/event, with guest sampling several of their out the other half of their building. A month later Allen &
signature items including NC Style Pulled Savory BBQ,
Mini-salad Tini with several homemade dressings, wedding cakes and hors d’ oeuvres.
Set up to enjoy will also be a large Gourmet
Cheeseboard Display, Smores’ Action Station and other
various action stations. During the grand opening you can
pick up information for your upcoming event and/or set
up an appointment to meet with our team to discuss your
needs. During the Grand Opening Tbonz & Tuna will be
hosting a Wine Tasting from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. At that time
you can discuss with Pat & Brittany Hilton about placing
a order for your upcoming event, or purchase wine to take
home that night.
To keep up with the culinary landscape changes in the
industry Tbonz & Tuna & Over the Top Catering decided
to form this new partnership, merging into one location.
This allows both businesses to keep up with the customers demand to purchase locally grown products, while
Photo Courtesy Over the Top
The the
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local economyguy.
and creating jobs. Both
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2014 • Wedding Guide
wedding day management or full wedding planning
with a personal touch. We can help you with anything
you need just ask! We can assist couples with all of
their planning needs from budget planning to wedding
and venue design. As part of the full planning package
each couple is given access to set up a wedding website
for their event. This website is a very valuable tool as it
allows the bride to set up her own personal website to
track guest, pre-wedding parties, keep track of RSVP’s,
gifts received, thank you notes sent out, etc.. The bride
will also have several private pages that are not view-
Photo Courtesy Over the Top
The Gourmet Cheeseboard Display, above, offers a
unique and delicious range of cheeses for guests to
enjoy at any type of event.
able by any family or guest visiting the site, these pages
are valuable tools that the bride can keep in constant
contact with her wedding planner, designer, and floral
team. Also, as part of this package is our floor planner
software, the planner will offer various venue floor plan
options to the couple, also available seating charts with
floor plans.
When selecting linens for your event we have several
large vendors to order from, to keep up with the current
trends and make this available to our clients. So don’t
forget to ask to look at our linen samples for your event.
Over the Top is now open for business and is booking
up fast for 2014. Call 804-366-4490 to get information
for your next event. We do events personal and corporate
and everything in between.
New for 2014 Elegant upscale disposables available
to order, we have on display a large selection of elegant
disposables available to order. So stop by and get at first
hand look at the new display.
You can check out Over the Top Catering at their
website at: overthetopcatering-eventplanning.com . or
facebook.com/overthetopcatering. They are located at
429 Dock Street, Tappahannock, Va. and are available
by appointment..
Tbonz & Tuna is open Monday – Saturday and now
have fresh seafood, Rappahannock River oysters, crab
meat, USDA choice meats and lunch daily (handmade
Boars Head sandwiches, & homemade soups daily).
Call 445-tuna.
12 shocking wedding facts
1.18 percent of couples ask their guests to
arrive in black-tie attire.
2. One in five couples include purple in their
wedding color palette.
3. According to Pantone, there are 116
shades of pink
4. Twenty-five percent of couples have themed
weddings.
5. Fifteen percent of wedding receptions are
outdoors.
6. One out of every 10 brides doesn’t wear
white or ivory.
7. Eight percent of grooms get a prewedding
peek at the dress.
8. Twenty percent of couples have a groom’s
cake.
9. Sixty-nine percent of brides wear a veil.
10. The average bridesmaid dress costs
$147...and only 2 percent of bridesmaids will
actually wear their dresses again.
11. Seven percent of brides don’t wear a wedding ring.
12. You can squeeze 70 songs into an average four-hour-long reception.
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8 Wedding Guide • 2014
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Call today and schedule your appointment for Clear Correct or Tooth Whitening so you and your bridal party can have a
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Here at River Gym we understand the importance of the
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Enjoy your wedding pictures for years to come by being the best you can be on
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2014 • Wedding Guide
A home-grown wedding
9
Couple keeps their big
day local by using
only regional vendors
Photos submitted by Hillary Pugh
By Dianne Saison
This past summer, one local couple decided that one of
the most important days in their lives would feature their
dedication to the Northern Neck.
On Aug. 3, Hillary Pugh and Ryan Kent wed in a beautiful ceremony that was a testament to not only their love
for each other, but also their loyalty to local businesses.
According to Hillary, the couple’s decision to almost
exclusively use local services for their wedding was not
only a benefit to local businesses but also more importantly one that made the day seamless and extremely
convenient for guests and the wedding party.
“We wanted to really utilize the resources around
here because you can’t get them anywhere else to create
the wedding that we wanted,” Hillary said in a Jan. 16
interview. “A lot of people do destination weddings for
location, but growing up on the Northern Neck, having
the River in the background and local friends and business help create our wedding, you couldn’t ask for a more
perfect fit.”
The couple’s journey began in White Stone, where they
met up during a fun day at the beach.
Shortly thereafter, the acquaintances went out on their
first date and “the rest is history,” Hillary said.
Just over a year later, the two were engaged, with Ryan
having a ring made from Burke’s Jewelers of Kilmarnock.
“The weekend that he proposed was the weekend of
Sandy and I went out to get supplies,” she said, adding
that when she came home she saw that there was something on the dock of the beach.
“All I could see was a big white tarp on the river. When
I got down to the beach, Ryan pulled the blanket off and
underneath was one of my grandmother’s buckets with
champagne and glasses in it,” she said. “He proposed on
the dock at our family home, Lington Farm in Richmond
County.”
The two began planning the wedding in earnest the first
of the year, although there were a few things they shored
up early, including reserving Hillary’s family church,
Cobham Park Baptist in Warsaw for their ceremony.
“That was one of the many things we wanted to tie
in, because the church has been in our family for generations,” Hillary said. “The music during our ceremony was
done by our choir, that was so meaningful to us.”
That January, the Kent’s commissioned all of their
announcements from Papeterie in Kilmarnock.
“They will do everything...save the dates, invitations,
thank you notes, they are all encompassing,” Hillary said.
Next, the couple looked for the perfect caterer.
“We went to Prue Davis in Tappahannock,” she said.
“We both really appreciate the really southern style and
wanted that cuisine that would be delicious and also have
something that would suit everyone’s palate.”
According to Hillary, the wedding feast was not only
delicious, but included an abundance of local fare from
area farmers, fishermen and was cooked to perfection.
The menu included fried chicken, shrimp and grits, crab
See Local page 10
10
Wedding Guide • 2014
Continued from page 9
cakes, sweet potato biscuits with country
ham, fresh vegetables, cornbread, salmon
and lox.
“The great thing is that around here there
are so many resources for fresh foods,”
Hillary said.
When it came to music, the choice for
the couple was easy. Ryan is a big fan of
local musician Faron Hamblin, who they
booked to play for the cocktail hour and
the initial wedding dances with the Klaxton
Brown Band playing Motown and more to
the delight of dancing guests.
In keeping with their theme, the couple
decided to host their reception where Ryan
first proposed, at Hillary’s family home on
the River.
“Although the ceremony was indoors at
the church, we used the farm for our reception and went to Clements Tent Rentals and
got a tent from them,” Hillary said. “They
also provided the lights, tables, chairs and
dishes. We had an August wedding so we
were concerned about heat so Clements
had fans set up to make sure people stayed
cool and they also provided the stage for
the band.
“We also called the mosquito authority
out of Kilmarnock and they sprayed just to
make sure our guests wouldn’t be uncomfortable outdoors,” she added.
Hillary said that every bride has one
focal point that they are passionate about.
Hers was the flower arrangements.
“One of my first phone calls was to
Bonnie Morris and Sue Farmer of Warsaw
because I love what they do with flowers,”
Hillary said. “They also did all the decorating for both the church and all the reception.
They did the bouquets, boutonnières, all
the flowers for the bridal parties, and the
flowers for the ceremony, reception, centerpieces and all of the decorating.”
The couple used Dixon Limousine
Service of Warsaw to provide transportation service to the church, reception and the
hotels those guests stayed in, which included
the Holiday Inn Express in Tappahannock,
the Northern Neck Inn in Warsaw and the
Essex Inn.
“We made our guests Welcome to Virginia
baskets with items from the Northern Neck
including Budweiser Beer from our local
distributor and featured two other local
Virginia Beers including Star Hill because
they have a beer labeled ‘LOVE,’” she said.
Hillary also went with local hair and
makeup stylists to ensure her bridal party
looked their best.
“All of the bridesmaids and I had our
makeup done by Annie Radigan of Montross
and Robin Berry of Tappahannock did all
the bridal party hair,” Hillary said. “Things
like hair and makeup being done by someone local is so important because they can
come right to you and you aren’t having
someone from Richmond City come to do
your hair. It is so convenient.”
The couple contracted with Sophie
Marchial of Richmond County to handle all
of the photography, which Hillary said was
stunning and a great deal.
“I think pictures are so important because
there is so much going on on your wedding
day that you have to tell yourself to slow
down and enjoy it,” Hillary said. “I think
about walking down the aisle, everything
fades away and all you focus on is you
and your husband. That is why whatever
you want in your wedding that is important
to you, make it part of your day because
everything else fades to the side. Everything
becomes you and your spouse, the people
that were there and the feelings and emotions that they have. To have that captured
on film to look back at is wonderful.”
Pat Gingell of For the Occasions in
Callao made both the wedding cake and
the groom’s cake. And Both Hillary’s and
Ryan’s family members chipped in to make
parting gifts the guests could savor.
“Ryan’s sister is known for her ginger
snaps and my grandmother is known for
her vanilla pound cake and chocolate pound
cake and we had cookies and fudge all made
by the family and that our guests left with
gift boxes,” Hillary said.
With all the planning, in the end, Hillary
said that she realized that the most important thing was that she, Ryan and their
guests had a great time and that it can all be
done locally.
“Mr. Clements was my little league
coach and Ms. Farmer was my 2nd grade
teacher which made it more meaningful
because these are people in your community
that you know who are there supporting you
on one of the most important days,” Hillary
said. “For those people to come together
for your wedding makes it even more
meaningful.”
Our businesses
strive to provide
One-of-a-Kind
Weddings for you!
Richmond County
for more information call (804) 333-3415
www.co.richmond.va.us
2014 • Wedding Guide
11
Celebrating your big day surrounded by nature and history
By Jordan Coates
For a unique wedding complete with history and a
nature-oriented atmosphere, Westmoreland State Park
has a lot to offer.
Annette Bareford, marketing representative for the
park, said that weddings at the park really appeal to
people who like the natural aspect of getting married at
their venue. Many couples get married in Murphy Hall,
the historic building built in 1936. “There’s not another
building like it around,” said Bareford.
The park has been offering a wedding venue since
Murphy Hall was built and the park opened in 1936.
The park offers a weekend wedding package at a special
rate, consisting of venues that can be used for lodging,
rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, receptions and more. The
park can also offer catering, lists of rentals in the area
and other needed assistance.
Many couples like to get married in Murphy Hall,
but weddings can take place anywhere in the park that is
open to the public after obtaining a special use permit.
Past weddings have taken place outside of the hall, on
the cliff, on the beach and in other various locations
throughout the park.
One of the lodges is of special interest to wedding
parties. The overnight facility is right on the water and
often used during the wedding weekend and for honeymoons. Bareford said there is a beautiful master suite
complete with a fireplace. “You can lay in the bed and
look at the water. It is very romantic.”
The park also has lots of programs that can be
Photo courtesy Northern Neck Tourism Commission
Westmoreland State Park offers stunning views and amenities for any outdoor or indoor wedding.
arranged for the wedding weekend. Depending on the
time of year, these programs can include kayaking on
the river, paddle boarding, hiking and nature based
programs. “We offer all types of programs for guests to
enjoy.”
The busiest time of the year for weddings in the park
is usually the spring. Bareford said the location is very
popular and affordable.
For wedding bookings, Bareford said availability is
key. She explained that it is best to book in advance
because the park is very popular for weddings as well as
family reunions, meetings and more. However, if they
have availability, they can book on short notice.
Due to the central location, many of the wedding
couples come from out of town. Bareford said that this
is a great venue for people with big families because it is
a very central location for lots of surrounding cities, but
the park has had all types of couples come for weddings.
Bareford commended the nice facilities at the park
including the catering kitchen. “The kitchen is top
notch.” She also added that the park staff is great. “They
are good to work with and very friendly.”
More information on the weekend wedding package
at Westmoreland State Park is coming to their website
soon.
12
Wedding Guide • 2014
that has a pliable texture. Using ganache,
bakers are able to create any color of
flower, one petal at a time, to adorn a cake.
Another workable material with a sweeter
taste is marzipan. Marzipan is a paste made
of ground almonds, sugar and egg whites
that can be used as icing or molded into
edible flowers or other decorations.
Many couples are choosing to have
a sweet table - a sort of dessert buffet
for guests. To some, these tables are a
great way for couples to express their
ethnic backgrounds. Some of these expressive desserts include the French croquembouche, a traditional form of wedding cake
Wedding Trivia
Photo Courtesy Over the Top
A specialty peacock wedding cake specially created by Over the Top catering by
Trinity in Tappahannock.
An evolution of the wedding cake
After the "I do's" are murmured and
the toasts shouted, the bride and groom
soon conduct their first task together as
husband and wife. The tradition of the
bride and groom cutting the first slice of
cake together is one that has stood the test
of time. Many see it as a ritual or just a
great photo opportunity, but it originally
symbolized the first undertaking of a
newlywed couple.
Many who have planned weddings
will attest to the fact that the wedding
tasks begin much earlier than in the
past, including deciding on the wedding
cake itself. Wedding cakes today have
become centerpieces of grand proportions, as elaborate and creative as one
can imagine. Today's cakes are created to
reflect the personalities and tastes of the
happy couple.
But wedding cakes from centuries past
were anything but elaborate. In fact, they
weren't cakes at all, but usually wheat
bread. Believed to have originated in
Roman times, the groom would break the
bread over the bride's head to symbolize
his dominance over her. As the crumbs
fell through her hair, guests scurried for
the pieces and kept them as good luck
tokens. Some even believed if placed
under a pillow, the bread would bring
a woman visions of the man she would
marry.
The wedding bread took on a sweeter
taste in England around the 17th century
in the form of sticky buns. Two centuries
later, the buns evolved into a pie and
were finally replaced by a wedding cake,
known then as a bride's cake.
Today, wedding cakes are elaborate,
detailed works of art. The actual cake
serves as a canvas on which couples can
express their individuality.
Pinpointing the perfect cake usually
begins with the couple sampling a variety
of cake flavors at their bakery of choice.
Among some of the delicious choices
are chocolate, carrot and marble pound
cake. These tasty layers can be filled with
lemon, amaretto, raspberry - the list goes
on.
As the centerpiece of the reception,
all eyes eventually make their way to
the cake. Whether it's a towering, seventier creation or an intimate size cake for
a smaller wedding, ornamentation and
decoration add personality and character
to the dessert.
A variety of elements are used to
decorate a cake uniquely, including edible
flowers, fruit and even leaves. Another
option is ganache - a sweet, rich chocolate
Seventeen tons of gold are made
into wedding rings each year in the
United States.
Most expensive wedding ever? The
marriage of Sheik Rashid Bin Saeed
Al Maktoum’s son to Princess Salama
in Dubai in May 1981. The price
tag? $44 million.
in France that actually consists of small
pastry puffs arranged in a pyramid and covered in a caramel glaze. The Scandinavian
Kransekage is a traditional almond cookie
baked in graduated rings and assembled
with curls of icing. It is still used as a wedding cake in regions of that area.
Whether it's a table of desserts or a tasteful cake, the sweetness of a wedding day
can be greatly enriched with the dessert
of your dreams. Working with your local
baker and sampling fillings and decorations
is the best way to create the perfect cake for
the perfect day.
-Courtesy Brandpoint
The word “wed” is derived from the
ancient Greek word for “pledge.”
Diamond engagement rings were
given by medieval Italians in the
belief that the diamond was created
in the Flames of Love.
Ancient Spartan soldiers were the first
to hold stag parties.
The longest engagement on record?
That was between Octavio Guillen
and Adriana Martinez. They were
engaged for 67 years.
2014 • Wedding Guide
Did You Know?
• Why does the Bride stand on the Groom’s Left? The early Anglo Saxon groom
had to defend his bride from would-be kidnappers, she stood to his left, leaving his
sword-arm free. The “best” warrior in the tribe stood by the groom and was responsible for helping defend the bride, thus the placement for the modern day best man.
•Why do we have a ‘best man’? The original duty of a “Best Man” was to serve
as armed backup for the groom in case he had to resort to kidnapping his intended
bride away from disapproving parents. The “best” part of that title refers to his skill
with a sword, should the need arise.
•Why wear a veil? Originally worn to prevent a young man from seeing his
bride until after the ceremony – most useful in times of arranged marriages so that
the groom could not flee at the altar!
•Tying the knot? In many cultures around the world - including Celtic, Hindu
and Egyptian weddings, the hands of a bride and groom are literally tied together
to demonstrate the couple’s commitment to each other and their new bond as a
married couple (giving us the popular phrase “tying the knot”).
•That takes the cake! The tradition of a wedding cake comes from ancient
Rome, where revelers broke a loaf of bread over a bride’s head for fertility’s sake.
The custom of tiered cakes emerged from a game where the bride and groom
attempted to kiss over an ever-higher cake without knocking it over.
•Who wore the first ever white wedding dress? Anne of Brittany(in 1499), for
her marriage to Louis XII of France.
•Why do brides favor the color white? Queen Victoria (whose reign lasted from
1837-1901) made white fashionable. She wore a pale gown trimmed in orange
blossoms for her 1840 wedding to her first cousin, Prince Albert. Everyone then
started to copy her! It should be noted that a white wedding dress is no way indicative of the “purity” of the bride-to-be. Indeed, white is not accorded as a symbol
of chastity, but of joy.
•Why do the families sit on different sides of the aisle? In ancient days, fathers
would offer daughters as peace offerings to warring tribes. Because of the hostility, the families were placed on opposite sides of the church to avoid bloodshed!
•The Younger Sister. Legend says that if the younger of two sisters marries first,
the older sister must dance barefoot at the wedding or risk never finding a husband.
•Why is the bride ‘given away’? Long ago, female children were deemed to be
the property of their fathers. When it came time for marriage he was actually transferring ownership of his daughter to the groom. Today, often when the question is
asked by a clergy during the ceremony, “Who gives this woman to be married to
this man,” the father’s response is, “Her mother and I.”
•Why do we wear wedding rings? They represent a promise for eternal and
everlasting love. The wedding ring is placed on the fourth finger of the left hand
because it was traditionally believed that this finger was a direct connection to the
heart.
•Is the first kiss just a normal kiss? Read on …. No ceremony is complete without the kiss. In fact, there was a time when an engagement would be null and void
without one! From early Roman times, the kiss represented a legal bond that sealed
all contracts. The kiss that seals the wedding is much more than a sign of affection.
It has long been a token of bonding - the exchange of spirits as each partner sends a
part of the self into the new spouse’s soul, there to abide ever after. Aaaaaahhhhhh!
•Why Toast? Toasting comes from an ancient French custom of placing bread
in the bottom of the glass - a good toaster drained the drink to get the “toast.”
According to legend, when a bride and groom drink their wedding toast, whoever
finishes first will rule the family.
•Why toss the bridal bouquet? With roots in England, it was believed the bride
could pass along good fortune to others. In order to obtain this fortune, spectators
would try to tear away pieces of the bride’s clothing and flowers. In an attempt to
get away, the bride would toss her bouquet into the crowd. Tradition says that the
single woman who catches the bouquet is the one who will marry next.
•Modern day Knights? The groom is supposed to wear a flower that appears in
the bridal bouquet in his button hole. This stems from the medieval tradition of a
knight wearing his lady’s colors to declare his love.
13
Tips for planning your registry
For recently engaged couples this is
the time to get everything they ever wanted. Whether they’re starting from scratch,
upgrading, expanding or replacing, the
goal is to turn a bunch of mismatched
“mine and yours” into a lifetime of “ours.”
“There are so many details involved in
making sure you get exactly what you need
and want, but it doesn’t have to be stressful,” says Audrey Stavish, wedding and gift
registry expert at Bed Bath & Beyond.
Stavish offers some hints to plan the
perfect wedding registry:
Plan ahead. Couples should start a wedding registry as soon as they say yes to give
guests plenty of time.
Where they register is important. Ask
friends, family and coworkers about their
experiences. Opt for convenience and great
customer service. Choose a store that has
locations nationwide and a website, making it easy for the guests.
Seek help. It’s easy to get overwhelmed
with planning a wedding. That’s why couples rely on the advice of professionals,
from stylists to florists to caterers. Don’t
forget the registry expert.
Also, take advantage of complimentary
wedding planning tools available on the
registry website to consolidate all the wedding information in one place.
Visit a store. It’s in the couple’s best
interest to visit a store and talk with a consultant who can help with gift selections
and share tips, such as what cookware will
be needed to prepare a favorite dish.
It’s important to touch the towels, hold
the flatware and see everything in person.
Most couples go into the stores many times
and update their registries online more than
once.
Dream big. A good formula is to register
for two to three items for each guest invited
to the wedding.
Friends and family will rely on the
registry for the engagement party, shower
and holidays. And guests will appreciate
having choices in a wide range of prices
and categories.
Let friends know. A complete wedding stationery ensemble helps the couple
inform their guests about every detail of
the wedding, from asking guests to save
the wedding date to thanking them for wedding gifts.
-Courtesy Statepoint Media
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e. [email protected] • p. 804.333.4978
14
Wedding Guide • 2014
The Gift Gallery
1644 Tappahannock Blvd.
804-443-0404 • Mon.-Sat. 11-5
Wedding and Shower Invitations • Save The Date Cards
Hand Made and Hand Painted Decorations
for Weddings and Receptions
Personalized Toasting Glasses
Bridal Party Gifts and Wedding Serveware
[email protected]
2014 • Wedding Guide
15
New times mean new traditions for couples on their big day
October is the new June. More and more,
weddings are taking place in the height of
fall foliage, heart of winter and prime holiday season, including the ever-popular New
Year's Eve ceremony to ring in the new year.
But it's not just the wedding season that has
drastically evolved over the past decade, it's
everything from roles and responsibilities to
gift-giving.
As you gear up to celebrate the union
of your beloved family or friends - or even
your own - know what to expect from the
changing tides of weddings. Lizzie Post,
co-author of 'Emily Post's Etiquette, 18th
edition' and great-great-granddaughter of
Emily Post, helps couples navigate the new
traditions of weddings. The Post name has
been synonymous with proper etiquette and
manners for the past 80 years.
As decades pass, so will traditions, but
proper etiquette is timeless. Be prepared for
the next wedding you attend and know what
to expect from changes in the wedding landscape with these important pieces of advice:
Pay it forward
Finding the right gift for the newlyweds
can be difficult. While registries help to
point guests in the right direction, many
couples are getting married later in life and
already have all the household items that
are common wedding gifts. To provide the
couple with a small nest egg to use however
they wish, a check is always a great and
safe gift idea. Several financial institutions,
like Bank of America, offer mobile check
deposit through their banking app, allowing
the couple the flexibility to deposit checks
on-the-go to help cover outstanding vendor payments or use on their honeymoon.
Another new-age trend is contributing to a
couple's honeymoon fund.
Temper tech use
Even weddings are going hi-tech. There
are numerous websites available that can
help the couple to organize the process,
communicate with guests and share photos
Photo courtesy Hillary Pugh
Weddings today are often a mix of both traditional and unique styles and themes.
after the ceremony. But a few things - like a
handwritten 'thank you' note - should steer
clear of the hi-tech lure. In a gadget-driven
society, everyone is carrying a smartphone.
Couples can post a tasteful notice at the
entrance of the ceremony location or in the
program to remind guests to turn off their
cell phone ringers and refrain from use
during the ceremony. Some couples may
actually encourage guests to take photos and
share images via social media, but guests
should respect their wishes and use phones
only as a camera and upload images after
the ceremony.
Respect personalization
Couples want their special day to reflect
who they are and what is important to them.
While previous generations traditionally wed
in places of worship, many modern couples
choose to tie the knot at a sentimental location, like where they had their first date. The
decor, music and even the food and drink
served at a wedding may have a personal
story behind it. No matter how nontraditional
the element may be, guests should eagerly
partake in the festivities, acknowledging and
respecting the couple's individualization.
Be all-inclusive
In the past, bridal showers were strictly
for the bride and bachelor parties were a
men-only affair. Nowadays, these festivities are no longer gender-specific. Showers
can be thrown for the couple in unison and
include creative themes like 'stock the bar'
or 'time of day.' Bachelor and bachelorette
parties can also be conjoined to involve the
entire bridal party in a destination event.
And while these events are a celebration
of joy, expenses can add up quickly. If you
use a rewards card, like the BankAmericard
Travel Rewards credit card, you can earn
points on purchases to pay for all or part of
your trip. This is great for both the bride and
groom and guests traveling to the wedding.
As trends and expectations shift, so will
the way major life milestones are celebrated.
It is important to celebrate these moments
in life with grace and support for the happy
couple - after all, it's their day - and it should
be as unique as they are.
16
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and Northumberland Echo