Weddings 2024 | 1 A CAPE GAZETTE PUBLICATION | 2024 EDITION
IN 2023 WE CATERED 76 WEDDINGS. (We also provide alcohol service.) jimmysgrillecatering.com or call Ron at 302-337-8868
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4 | Weddings 2024 A CAPE GAZETTE PUBLICATION | 2024 EDITION COVER STORY Rebecca & Nick's Lewes wedding by photographer Abby Shepard. PUBLISHER Chris Rausch PRODUCTION MANAGER Tara Marks DESIGN Abby Workman ADVERTISING Kathy McGinty Lauren Zaniewski COPY EDITOR Veronica Geyer PRODUCTION Mallery Galaska Teresa Rodriguez Kristin Sinnott Elizabeth Tedley FOR MORE INFORMATION including subscriptions and advertising, visit CapeGazette.com COVER PHOTO: ABBY SHEPARD
Weddings 2024 | 5 & ONE ONLY A ONE OF A KIND SETTING Nassau Valley Vineyards 32165 Winery Way, Lewes, Delaware 19958 | 302-645-WINE | nassauvalley.com Design your dream wedding at Nassau Valley Vineyards in a world-class venue that combines classic elegance with scenic ambiance. Don’t settle for an ordinary setting on your extraordinary day. We feature two spacious ballrooms and picturesque locations for unique outdoor ceremonies. Build your one-of-a-kind memories at Delaware’s first and most enchanting winery, Nassau Valley Vineyards.
6 | Weddings 2024 CONTENTS U.S. Weddings by the Numbers Average Vendor Costs DE Weddings by the Numbers Beach Weddings Checklist Coastal Delaware Wedding Registry Item Trends 8 10 12 14 22 34 The Long Tradition of Rice What to Look for in a Caterer Wedding Day Emergency Kit Choosing a DJ Optimize Your Flower Budget Top Destination Weddings 36 42 46 48 50 52
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8 | Weddings 2024 US WEDDINGS By the Numbers ALABAMA: $22,000 ARKANSAS: $21,000 ARIZONA: $23,000 CALIFORNIA: $37,000 COLORADO: $30,000 CONNECTICUT: $39,000 DELAWARE: $39,000 DC: $40,000 FLORIDA: $30,000 GEORGIA: $26,000 IDAHO: $19,000 ILLINOIS: $37,000 INDIANA: $23,000 IOWA: $19,000 KENTUCKY: $20,000 KANSAS: $16,000 LOUISIANA: $31,000 MAINE: $31,000 MARYLAND: $39,000 MASSACHUSETTS: $46,000 MICHIGAN: $27,000 MINNESOTA: $25,000 MISSISSIPPI: $28,000 MISSOURI: $23,000 MONTANA: $18,000 NEBRASKA: $21,000 NEVADA: $21,000 NEW HAMPSHIRE: $30,000 NEW JERSEY: $51,000 NEW MEXICO: $18,000 NEW YORK: $46,000 NORTH CAROLINA: $29,000 NORTH DAKOTA & SOUTH DAKOTA: $20,000 OHIO: $26,000 OKLAHOMA: $16,000 OREGON: $19,000 PENNSYLVANIA: $33,000 RHODE ISLAND: $43,000 SOUTH CAROLINA: $32,000 TENNESSEE: $22,000 TEXAS: $27,000 UTAH: $16,000 VERMONT: $43,000 VIRGINIA: $31,000 WASHINGTON: $23,000 WEST VIRGINIA: $31,000 WISCONSIN: $26,000 WYOMING: $18,000 Average Cost of a Wedding in the U.S. by State $ $ $ $ $ 30,000 AVERAGE U.S. WEDDING COST Events & Catering Creative Customized Menu Offerings Platters for Pick Up or Drop Off Soups ·· Salads ·· Wraps ·· Charcuterie ·· Sweets lydiasbistro.com • 302.567.2971 • 33 Baltimore Ave Suite A, Rehoboth Beach • Catering Inquiries: [email protected]
Weddings 2024 | 9 THE CLUBHOUSE AT BAYWOOD IS ONE OF THE ONLY PREMIER WEDDING AND EVENT VENUES IN SOUTHERN DELEWARE. SITUATED RIGHT ON THE CULINARY COAST AND JUST A FEW MILES AWAY FROM BOTH LEWES AND REHOBOTH BEACH, OUR ALL-INCLUSIVE VENUE BOASTS PICTURESQUE SETTINGS AND IN-HOUSE PROFESSIONAL PLANNING STAFF TO HELP YOU ORGANIZE AND HOST YOUR DREAM WEDDING. WITH ELEGANT SPACES BOTH INDOORS AND OUTDOORS, YOU'RE SURE TO FIND THE PERFECT LOCATION TO GET MARRIED ON OUR PROPERTY, NO MATTER YOUR STYLE OR THE SIZE OF YOUR WEDDING PARTY. BaywoodWeddings BaywoodWeddings.com BaywoodWeddingsandEvents Weddings at VALUED UP TO $350
10 | Weddings 2024 Average vendor costs $11,200 VENUE $2,400 FLORIST $2,600 PHOTOGRAPHER $5,800 ENGAGEMENT RING $1,900 WEDDING DRESS $3,900 LIVE BAND $510 CAKE $ $ At Conversation Peace Jewelers, we make all your bridal dreams come true. Tues - Thurs: 10am-5pm Fri & Sat: 10am-4pm 17252-6 N. Village Main Blvd., Lewes Five Points in the Weis Center 302-313-4664 conversationpeacejewelers.com
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12 | Weddings 2024 $7,000 AVERAGE VENUE COST $6,150 AVERAGE CATERING COST $ 39,000 AVERAGE WEDDING COST 30% HIGHER THAN US AVERAGE DE WEDDINGS $ By the Numbers DE WEDDING LICENSE COST $70 RESIDENTS $120 NON-RESIDENTS Lewes, Delaware The perfect setting for your special day in an historic year-round town located near beautiful bay and ocean beaches. Inns, Motels, B&Bs and Restaurants offer banquet space and off-premises catering. 302-645-8073 | 877-465-3937 | www.leweschamber.com in a historic year-round town located near beautiful bay and ocean beaches. Inns, Motels, B&Bs and Restaurants offer banquet space and off-premises catering. Lewes, Delaware The perfect setting for your special day
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14 | Weddings 2024 Beach Weddings Checklist Sometimes, putting your toes in the sand is all you need. And a minister, and some flowers, and some paperwork, and seating, and a band, and lights … Continued on Page 16
Weddings 2024 | 15 (302) 488-5322 • [email protected] DonutNV.com LET US MAKE YOUR WEDDING Hot fresh mini donuts made to order, specialty wedding donuts & fresh squeezed lemonade! WEDDINGS • CELEBRATIONS • CORPORATE • GRADUATIONS • CATERING Even Sweeter!
16 | Weddings 2024 Don’t get too stressed. We’ve got a checklist that’s got you covered for a perfect beachy wedding. ♦ Pick your beach: Consider if it’s open for weddings, if you need a permit, if there’s parking and if it’s accessible for everyone. ♦ Find vendors: You’ll need a florist, a baker and more. Work with local companies who know the area and its limitations. They can advise you on vendors you might need that you haven’t even thought of. ♦ Choose beach-friendly décor: This means windproof, wave proof and sand proof. Before you set your heart on anything, consider if it can hold up to ocean breezes (which Continued on Page 18 302-853-0503 » [email protected] » Website: thecateringcompany.info Refining Food & Event Production It’s personal We will work with you to create a menu that fits your taste, budget and style. Signature Style Exquisite food • Expert coordination Gracious Service Our Commitment Locally sourced produce and the freshest ingredients means food that is exceptional in taste.
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18 | Weddings 2024 that will keep you cool and comfortable. Longer gowns may look great, but they’re going to be heavy with sand before you know it. Either go shorter or ensure that you can bustle your dress. You also want to forego the heels. The fashionable soles are sexy, but impossible to wear in sand. The groom should choose lightweight cotton suits or even Bermuda shorts. You might consider a flip-flop station for guests that didn’t think ahead. ♦ Arrange for sturdy seating: Your guests should be comfortable, and that means chairs that can handle shifting sands and are sturdy enough to stand up to beach winds. If you’re keeping your ceremony short and sweet, consider just providing seating for the elderly and children and having your other guests stand. can be more like cyclones), sudden showers and ocean spray. Don’t go overboard. Remember you chose the beach for a reason – the gorgeous vistas. Too much décor will just be clutter. ♦ Arrange for shade: The beach is a hot, sunny location and if there’s no shade nearby, you’ll have to bring some to keep both you and your guests comfortable. Talk to local event planners to find the best solutions for your ceremony. ♦ Settle on an appropriate menu: Keep your beachside reception fare light. Not only will it keep your guests from wilting, it will also stand up better to the sun, wind and heat. Also consider this when it comes to your cake. Choose a style that will hold up to the elements. ♦ Pick proper attire: Choose a lighter dress Continued on Page 20 Welcome To Sharing A Closet We are the experts in solving one of marriage’s trickiest problems. Visit The Closet Works DE/MD on Facebook to see our “Showclosets” • Custom Closets • Garages • Pantries • Laundry Rooms & More... WE WILL BEAT ANY COMPETITOR’S PRICING! Call today to get a FREE in-home design consultation! (302) 945-5354 · www.theclosetworks.net THE CLOSET WORKS
Weddings 2024 | 19 floralinspirations.us | 302· 703· 1009 524 EAST SAVANNAH ROAD, LEWES UNIQUE FLORAL DESIGN MEMORABLE EVENTS Photos by Maria DeForrest Photography (top 3) & Moonloop Photography (bottom 2)
20 | Weddings 2024 ♦ Choose a palette that compliments the beach’s sand and water hues. Go bold and tropical with green and hot orange, coral or magenta tones. ♦ Things to have on hand: Cold beverages, and plenty of them, to help guests beat the heat. Sunscreen. Bug repellent. Sunglasses. Towels. ♦ Have a backup plan. The beach is amazing, but it can turn wild in a second with weather. Or seaweed. Or a fishkill. Have a plan B that you love just as much. Wedding Band Workshops Spend a day in our studio with your partner, making your wedding ands and lielong memories! Check out more details online. Heirlooms e-Imagined Turn old pieces into new ewelry you will love to wear! Contact us or an appointment. Open on-Sat, 10am-5pm & Sun, 12-5pm 119 ront Street Lewes, 1995 302-227-9203 heidilowegallery.com
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22 | Weddings 2024 Coastal DelawareWedding LEWES HISTORICAL SOCIETY | REBECCA + NICK Photos & Story by Abby Shepard
Weddings 2024 | 23 Enjoy a Wellness Day with your Wedding Party or Close Friends. Alleviate Stress, Relax & Have Fun! HEALING CENTER Experience Bliss before the Wedding • Facials • Massage • Reiki • Yoga Classes (including Aerial) • Group Sound Baths/Healings • Private Parties Want to Treat a Special Couple? Gift Certificates Available for Couples Massages in our Private Cherry Blossom Room. Heartwish Healing Center 301 Rehoboth Avenue, Suite G Rehoboth Beach (302) 727-5501 [email protected] HOURS: Mon through Sat: 10 AM - 4 PM All massage therapists are licensed & insured. HEARTWISHMASSAGE.COM
24 | Weddings 2024 Rebecca and Nick had a beautiful and really fun coastal wedding at the Lewes Historical Society in Lewes, Delaware! THEIR STORY In their words, “Our story started as a series of missed connections and almosts, as we have known each other since high school and had our paths cross numerous times. Multiple mutual friends tried to get us together and finally, in our mid-20s, we started getting to know each other and hanging out. Our love of good food, craft beer, and the outdoors has always meant there was a place to go on a date and try new things, which ultimately brought us closer. Even then, it was a few years before we started seriously dating. We finally decided to “give it a shot” (Nick’s words). It’s been nothing short of an adventure since then: full of moves, career changes, college applications, and of course lots of good food and beer.” THEIR WEDDING Nick and Rebecca had a coastal Delaware-themed wedding (not a beach wedding!). They got ready in a beach house in Lewes, had their first look at Canalfront Park, and then the ceremony and Continued on Page 26 Located in the heart of Delaware, Bella Vista or “beautiful sight” is how our customers describe our indoor and outdoor event areas. Nestled on the shores of scenic Silver Lake, our bucolic country village and elegant indoor galleries are the perfect location for weddings, receptions, reunions and company retreats. Visit us online www.agriculturalmuseum.org/bellavista BOOK YOUR WEDDING WALKTHROUGH: [email protected] | 302-734-1618 866 North DuPont Hwy, Dover, Delaware AT THE DELAWARE Bella Vista AGRICULTURAL MUSEUM
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26 | Weddings 2024 reception at the Lewes Historical Society. The ceremony was on the porch of the main building at the historical society, and the reception was under a tent on the lawn. UNIQUE DETAILS Rebecca and Nick’s day was full of special details! They started the day by writing each other letters that they exchanged before their first look. They also got each other gifts to go with the letters. Their wedding favors were little plants that they Continued on Page 28 “ It’s been nothing short of an adventure
Weddings 2024 | 27 Say 'I do' with a view at Above The Dunes. From intimate to grand, we craft your dream wedding with oceanfront elegance. [email protected] (302) 226-2000 SEND EMAIL TO: www.abovethedunes.com and event Wedding
28 | Weddings 2024 propogated from their own personal houseplants. Rebecca and Nick brew their own beer, so they made shandy flights for guests to enjoy during cocktail hour. The guestbook was a vinyl record case that will be added to their vinyl collection. It was really cool to see how Rebecca and Nick incorporated their interests and their personal passions into their wedding! FLOWERS BY MAYUMI 128 SECOND ST., LEWES, DE 19958 302-644-4468 [email protected]
Weddings 2024 | 29 FREE WATCH BATTERY WITH THIS COUPON In addition, take 10% OFF our already low prices on any jewelry LIMIT 2 WATCHES. NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS. EXP 12/31/24 Atlantic Jewelry 313 S. BOARDWALK, REHOBOTH BEACH
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Weddings 2024 | 31 CleanDelaware.com Beach Wedding? Nature Nuptials? Rustic Celebration? Various sizes available to meet your needs!
32 | Weddings 2024 In 1840, Queen Victoria not only started the Western world's white wedding dress trend but also showcased her opulence with a wedding cake that weighed an astonishing 300 pounds. Prior to her influential choice, brides typically wore their best dress for their special day. Did You Know? “We Do” ...WEDDINGS! 302-227-RENT(7368) 227rent.com REHOBOTH BEACH, DE
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34 | Weddings 2024 The first bridal registry was said to have been created in 1924 at Marshall Field’s in Chicago. The idea, then as now, was to provide a list of things like china, silverware and crystal to make wedding gift buying easier for friends and family. Back then, a registry was created in person and kept in a special notebook. Today, much of this is handled online. But that’s not the only way that the bridal registry has changed. The latest trends include some very high-tech items. Registry Item Trends SMART CHOICES Couples register for a wide variety of things to complete their new household. Perhaps the hottest recent trend involves smart appliances. Coffee pots, refrigerators, vacuums, and even toasters are now outfitted with technology that allows them to connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to your phone. This allows you to control them remotely and to set certain scheduled actions. Turn the air-conditioning or heat on before you arrive, or off while you are away. Have a hot cup of joe waiting when you wake up. There’s even a toaster with more than 60 settings, following intelligent algorithms to heat things according to your precise desires. GOING PLACES You’ll probably start dreaming of the " NEUTRALS ARE ALWAYS IN FASHION
Weddings 2024 | 35 next getaway not long after returning from your honeymoon. Arrive in style with all-new luggage that fits the modern lifestyle and aesthetic. Hard-sided bags now have built-in phone chargers, for instance. New compartmentalization options make organizing and packing a breeze. If you’re more adventurous or love to camp, be sure to mark down back-packs and duffel bags in the registry. AT HOME Maybe you’re more of a homebody. Gift registries can help you quickly build a warm and inviting atmosphere for one another. Registry standbys like sheets and towels make timeless gifts, the more comfy the better. The latest trend is high-tech fabrics that are both sustainable and longer lasting than the products of yesteryear. Just remember to make pattern and color choices that will fit into your life on a longer-term basis. Neutrals are always in fashion. “Nantucket-Style” ON THE D E L A W A R E C O A S T. COASTAL RETREAT AND WEDDING DESTINATION On the Waterfront in the heart of Historic Lewes 122 Market Street, Lewes, DE | 302.644.3377 or 888.644.1911
36 | Weddings 2024 We’ve seen it time and time again: Spouses kiss and are presented as a couple, then exit toward a waiting vehicle as guests throw celebratory rice in the air. But why? Here’s a look at the long tradition of rice in weddings, and some newer alternative practices: The Long Tradition of Rice Wedding CHEER! Our large Banquet Hall can accommodate up to 325 people with 40 round tables or 80 rectanglar tables with chairs as well as a stage and dance floor. • Full service catering and bartending for weddings or any special occasion • Stage, podium, microphones, sound system, and other audio-visual equipment for band/DJ • Centrally located in Sussex County with ample parking CHEER COMMUNITY CENTER 20520 Sand Hill Road, Georgetown, DE 19947 Contact Debra Dodd at 302-854-2892 Over 50 Years Serving Sussex Seniors www.cheerde.com
Weddings 2024 | 37 HOW IT BEGAN Rice was originally chosen because it symbolizes prosperity and fertility, according to Brides magazine. It’s tossed as a sign of well wishes for the future. The tradition dates back at least to ancient Celts, who threw rice and other grains both as a newlywed blessing and to appease various gods, according to Brides. Not everyone followed along, however. Ancient Romans were said to toss wheat, Moroccans threw figs or dried dates, and Indians celebrated with flower petals. GETTING READY Make or buy small packages of rice for your guests before the ceremony. Ushers can distribute the packets, or you can attach them to chairs or the wedding program. Ask ushers and other helpers to let guests know when the time is right. You might also consider listing the proper time to throw rice in the program. Most couples choose the moment they initially walk out of the venue, but others may want to do it during a special photo. MODERN CONTROVERSY More recently, fears have arisen that leftover grains might cause harm to wildlife long after the ceremony is over. Some government officials have even banned the practice. Brides magazine reported, however, that subsequent testing has shown no immediate danger to animals. Rice can pose a slip hazard, however, so someone should be on hand to sweep up once the happy couple has left the venue. There are plenty of reasons beyond worries over wildlife to opt for something else instead of rice. Some people are looking for greener options. Then there are the inherent safety issues. Some options to consider are flower petals, birdseed, herbs, or biodegradable confetti. Some choose not to throw anything at all. THE WOODEN INDIAN Ltd. ~ BRIDAL REGISTRY ~ 25 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE (302) 227-8331 • www.woodenindianltd.com
38 | Weddings 2024 According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Herbert and Zelmyra Fisher, born in the USA in 1905 and 1907, respectively, set the record for the longest marriage. They were married for 86 years and 290 days until Mr. Fisher passed away on February 27, 2011. Did You Know? Say Beach at the The Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach Resort Area offers venue space, cozy accommodations, caterers, florists, officiants, and more to make your day extra special! Contact the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce for info! 302-227-6446 or Scan the QR Code to visit Beach-Fun.com Funded in part by Southern Delaware Tourism
Weddings 2024 | 39 Let the next chapter of your story begin here. 38° 41’ 46”N 75° 36’ 18”W 302.228.0787 8275 Cannon Road Bridgeville, DE 19933 willowbrookde.com [email protected] KEMP COLLECTIVE PHOTO JONATHAN ALLEN PHOTO DANNY BOSTWICK PHOTO PECULIAR IMAGES BY RJ PHOTO JONATHAN ALLEN PHOTO
40 | Weddings 2024 Happily Ever After Delaware’s Premier Beach Wedding Destination When a Beach Wedding is your Dream, there is only oneplacetoconsider.Delaware’s Premier Beach Wedding Destination When a beach wedding is your dream, there is only one place to consider, The Lighthouse Cove Event Center. 1301 Coastal Hwy, Dewey Beach, DE 19971 • 302.567.2233 Lighthousecoveevents.com
Weddings 2024 | 41 Featuring over 18,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, overlooking Rehoboth Bay in the heart of Dewey Beach, you and your guests can enjoy panoramic views of Delaware’s most gorgeous sunsets. 1301 Coastal Hwy, Dewey Beach, DE 19971 • 302.567.2233 Lighthousecoveevents.com
42 | Weddings 2024 What to Look For In a Caterer Several factors come into play when making this critical decision I t’s easy to focus solely on the food, of course, but there are other considerations. You’ll want to start by looking at their history, including licensing and referrals. Then ask critical questions that will get to the bottom of the services they provide. BACKGROUND CHECK Look for licensed catering companies or restaurants. This will ensure that they meet or exceed certain industry standards, but it also may be essential to holding the ceremony. Depending on the venue, management may actually require that this credential is in place. Ask about the vendor’s history of catering weddings. How many have they previously handled — and how many of these previous ceremonies matched your location and specific needs? You may not be comfortable with letting a novice take over such an important task. Ask friends and family for their input, and study online reviews and recommendations. CONFIRM THE PRICE If you have a special menu request or are hosting a themed wedding, share that upfront. Beyond the question of their experience in handling such things, it may change how much you’ll be charged. Some companies publicize their pricing structures, but more often you will have to meet to discuss your personal plans. They should draw up a fee schedule based on this conversation, and provide a written quote. This eliminates the possibility of a post-wedding issue with payment. SERVICE QUESTIONS Discuss whether they will provide additional needed items like linens, silverware and chairs. That will impact cost and, if not provided, will lead to the complication of arranging all of this with a separate vendor. Continued on Page 44 founded 1925 Chris Brosius, General Manager 302-674-4951, ext. 5 Our professional coordinator offers many years experience to help guide you through a stress free planning process. Your event will be special and leave you with wonderful memories for many years to come. Allow our extraordinary golf course setting to make your next event a memorable one. Dover, Delaware’s Premier Wedding Venue Professional Wedding Planner • Custom-Designed Menus • Outdoor Ceremony Pergola & Veranda • Bride and Groom Rooms • Bridal Party Golf Outing you do not need to be a member to hold an event! 180 Maple Dale Circle, Dover, DE www.mapledalecc.com/weddings/
Weddings 2024 | 43 Sunnybrae Mansion Historic Sunnybrae Mansion is a three-story estate built in 1937 and inspired by Georgian Revival-style architecture. Indoor and outdoor event spaces available on 90+ acres. With 9 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, it's perfect for wedding parties and family. Sunnybrae Mansion Farm · 416 NE 10th St, Milford, DE · (302) 393-1777 Welcome to... Contact us for once in a lifetime wedding opportunities!
44 | Weddings 2024 Some companies also handle wedding cakes, which could streamline that process, as well. Look for vendors who will only be catering your event on the scheduled day. If the wedding ends up as nothing more than a layover on their way to another job, you might not get the service you expected. Make sure you have multiple contact points, so that discussions can continue as the ceremony draws closer. MONEY-SAVING OPTIONS To save money, limit bar service to only wine and beer. Morning and early afternoon weddings feature less-expensive menus items. You can also focus on stationary appetizers, rather than passed hors d’oeuvres. Limit the entree choices as much as possible. Cell: 914.391.1580 A native woman owned business. Email: [email protected] Website: 4directiondesign.com Instagram: @4directiondesign_mg ElEvatE your wEdding cElEbrations with custom, pErsonalizEd invitations and signagE! From savE thE datEs to your big day (& EvErything in bEtwEEn), wE bring your vision to liFE. Our creatiOns make every mOment uniquely yOurs.
Weddings 2024 | 45 CONTACT: KATIE (410) 615-2560 FULL SERVICE CATERING (ON & OFF PREMISE) AND EVENT PLANNING WEDDINGS, PRIVATE PARTIES, BABY SHOWERS, CORPORATE EVENTS, CHARITY FUNCTIONS AND MORE! PHOTO CREDIT: MANDA WEAVER PHOTOGRAPHY EVENTS BY COMMON GROUND HOSPITALITY TASTEEVENTSANDCATERING.COM
46 | Weddings 2024 Wedding Day Emergency Kit Unfortunately, the unexpected happens — and you’ll want to be ready Preparing early helps alleviate worries about common mishaps that add unneeded stress during your nuptials. Don’t let your big event become marred by makeup disasters, torn clothing, or even a sudden pang of hunger. Packing a wedding day emergency kit helps ensure that none of that gets in the way as you prepare to walk down the aisle. TOUCHING UP You’ll be primped, prepared and dressed long before it’s time to say your vows, meaning there will be plenty of time for something to potentially go wrong. So keep critical beauty supplies nearby for any needed touch ups with your makeup, hair and perfume. Outdoor settings are increasingly popular for weddings, and they provide a variety of challenges — not least of which are smudges and running mascara, lipstick and foundation. Double check before taking pictures, and before saying “I do.” These critical extras from home may prove to be a lifesaver. RE-STYLING ITEMS Outdoor weddings are also a huge potential challenge to your carefully crafted hairstyle. Be prepared for a potentially windy situation by tucking away a brush, additional bobby pinks and hairspray in your dressing area. Depending on the season, you may need to freshen up with perfume and deodorant, in particular after taking your pictures. Bring any additional needed toiletries. SEWING KIT Wardrobe malfunctions happen, so pack an assortment of threads, needles, scissors and safety pins just in case. You’ll either need to master the skill of emergency sewing, or ensure that a trusted bridesmaid, matron or family friend is on hand in case of accidental tears, stepped on hems or other mishaps. Just knowing all of these things are Plan your special day as an intimate gathering or a celebration for up to 300 people surrounded by the natural beauty of our unique property. WWW.CAMPARROWHEAD.NET • 302-945-0610 Photo credit: Maddy Maute Photo credit: Neil D. Parry Photo credit: Angie Moon Photo credit: Neil D. Parry
Weddings 2024 | 47 available can significantly lower stress during what always promises to be a very busy schedule. A LITTLE SNACK With everything else that’s going on, you may not make time to eat and hydrate enough along the way. Nourishing yourself " WARDROBE MALFUNCTIONS HAPPEN is critical to carrying everything off without a hitch. At the same time, however, you don’t want to overindulge. So don’t forget a few small, healthy snacks like nuts, granola or protein bars — and a few bottles of water, too. They’ll help you be at your best when it’s time to join together in matrimony before family and friends. Ashley Eaton | 302-245-9733 | [email protected] | Servicing DE + MD A unique, All inclusive Choose from our OG Vintage Camper Bar, our wooden ‘Wandering Spirit’ satellite bar, or bartender rental for venues with stationary bars. Services Include → Bartenders, bar back, all bar materials (to include cups, napkins, cocktail mixers, ice, bar decor, coolers), and consultations throughout the booking process all the way to the event. MOBILE BARTENDING SERVICES Bar Service.
48 | Weddings 2024 Choosing a DJ Receptions are when it’s time to bust a move, and a really great DJ can make sure everyone at the party is having a good time. The DJ can also take the stress off the bride and groom by not only planning the party’s playlist, but a really experienced DJ can spot when something’s about to go south and cover it up by spinning a new song. FINDING DJ OPTIONS Start by asking friends and family about wedding DJs they’ve seen and heard. If you come up empty, turn to your other vendors. They’ve often all worked with each other before and can give you great recommendations. Once you’ve narrowed it down to a top three, schedule a call or in-person meeting to talk. Some questions to consider: ♦ Availability: Make sure they’re available for your date and in your budget. ♦ How long have you been a DJ? ♦ How many weddings have you worked? ♦ How do you get a shy crowd moving? ♦ Do you have references? MUSIC CHOICES DJs should give you a feel for the types of music they play – and they should ask plenty of questions about the types of music you and your families prefer. Ask how often they update their music catalog and if you can make requests. You also want to find out if the DJ will also act as emcee or if you need to assign that role to someone else. If you end up choosing someone else to emcee, announcing the father-daughter dance and toasts and such, then you need to have them meet with the DJ beforehand to work out timing. LOGISTICS AND EQUIPMENT Find out how much equipment the DJ requires and how they’ll get it to your venue and set up. Ask if you’ll need to provide any separate equipment and how they handle equipment malfunctions (they do happen). Find out if they’ve worked in your reception space before and, if they plan to use lighting or special effects, make sure those are cleared with the venue beforehand. Also find out what they plan to wear and make sure it fits in with your idea of your reception. 302-947-4000 [email protected] delawarechocolatefountainrentals.com Whether you’re hosting a wedding reception, graduation party, or other special event, let a Delaware Chocolate Fountain Rental be the centerpiece of your party! The Ultimate Chocolate Experience
Weddings 2024 | 49 Committed To Making The Moment
50 | Weddings 2024 Optimize Your Flower Budget After your dress, nothing is more visible at the wedding I f the national average is any indication, they’ll be a big part of your expenses, too. Before you spend thousands on highpriced blossoms, however, carefully consider your options. The wrong choice can lead to unneeded expense, and there are lots of creative ways to get the most of your flower budget. GO SEASONAL We all have that special favorite flower. Oftentimes, however, this single decision can raise the costs substantially. You can save money by blending in seasonal foliage, which will be less expensive since it’s readily available. Ask a florist or someone with the local extension service office more about area plants and when they’re in bloom. GO BIG (ONCE) If your budget doesn’t allow for multiple showy arrangements, focus your florist’s attention on one show-stopper. Put it in a prominent place where it will receive the most notice, then down shift into less-expensive settings elsewhere. You can also pair flowers that have bigger blooms with a mix of structural items like branches that will fill out the arrangements without breaking the bank. MAKE A DEAL Look for sales at local florists, or consider buying from a wholesaler. A word of caution: Buying in bulk means you can save a little, but you’ll also need to find someone with a florist’s expertise to arrange everything into something worthy of your big day. GET PERSONAL A great way to stretch your flower budget is to pair fewer blooms with more personal items. Take some time when still in the planning stages of your wedding to dig out beloved DE & MD Certified Licensed & Insured Reasonable & Responsible (302) 858-7272 [email protected]