BridalTabLayout_2014

Celebrating Your Special Day!

January 2014 • A Special Supplement to:Albany Enterprise • Melrose Beacon • Sauk Centre Herald

BlendingCultures

50 Years of Wedding Cakes

From Cop to Wedding Shop

Wartime Wedding

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Page 2 • Star Publications - Wedding Planner - January 2014

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makes wedding rich in tradition 1st State Bank ................................................................. page 8 Albany Country Floral .................................................... page 9Albany Family Dentistry ................................................ page 10 American Legion-Sauk Centre ....................................... page 16AMPS, Inc. ..................................................................... page 9Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center ....................... page 13Avon Dental Clinic ......................................................... page 7Avon Liquor Locker ....................................................... page 16Broadway Ballroom ....................................................... page 17 Central Lakes Restaurant Supply ................................... page 5 Cold Spring Bakery ........................................................ page 7 Cornerstone Buffet & Restaurant ................................... page 2Diamond Point ............................................................... page 10 Diekman’s Jewelry ......................................................... page 12 Downtown Bars ............................................................. page 8ElmerZ Restaurant, Bar and Event Centre ..................... page 10Freeport Community Center .......................................... page 3Freeport Floral .............................................................. page 12Freeport State Bank ....................................................... page 14General Rental Center of Albany .................................... page 18 Greenwald Pub .............................................................. page 5GreyStone Golf Club ....................................................... page 18Jackie J’s ........................................................................ page 17Kay’s Bouquets .............................................................. page 11 Meads Department Store, Inc. ....................................... page 12Melrose American Legion .............................................. page 2Meyer’s Photography Studio, Inc. .................................. page 2 Minnesota National Bank ............................................... page 3 Norwood Inn & Suites .................................................... page 12Pack N Go Travel ............................................................ page 10Padua Pub ...................................................................... page 8 Panther Distillery .......................................................... page 20Paul’s Par-A-Dice ........................................................... page 4Pelican Lake Ballroom ................................................... page 12Sauk Centre Herald ........................................................ page 11 Sensational Styles & Spa ................................................ page 13 State Farm Insurance ..................................................... page 18The Cut Above ................................................................ page 10The Falls Ballroom ......................................................... page 19The Landing ................................................................... page 11Remember When Photography ...................................... page 17

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Page 2 • Star Publications - Wedding Planner - January 2014 Star Publications - Wedding Planner - January 2014 • Page 3

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Every wedding has its traditions, from the exchanging of rings to the couple’s first dance. No matter how religious or even silly they may be, these traditions are what make your wedding day memorable. I had the pleasure to include the strange-but-taken-seriously Stearns County traditions with the traditions of my husband’s Bolivian background. Some guests may say our wedding was very unique, but with all the customs we included, I would say our wedding was very much traditional. As a Catholic couple, we really wanted to take advantage of all the Catholic richness a wedding Mass offered. We had a full Mass which was done partly in Spanish and the rest in English. We wanted to do everything from singing as much as we could to presenting flowers to Mary and Joseph to whom we dedicated our marriage. After we had made the biggest vow of our lives, we added a tradition that was primarily a Pilipino custom but then adopted by Latin America known as “Arras” or in English, the “Wedding Coins.” While my husband poured a handful of coins into my hands, he professed to the entire church that all he had was now mine. It represented the groom’s commitment and ability to care for the material needs of the home Another Latino custom, again adopted from the Philippines, was the “Wedding Lasso.” After the coin exchange we were asked to kneel while the priests wrapped around us a giant rope which was fashioned into a rosary, a Marian devotional prayer. This signified that our prayers were now one and all the struggles and blessings we would go through would be united. We weren’t afraid to include a few of our own traditions before our wedding ceremony. We kept the superstitious tradition of not seeing one another before the wedding, but we made it a time of silence and prayer by taking turns in the chapel that was next door to the church. I was so glad we did this because it allowed me to focus and unwind from the “traditional” wedding stress every bride must endure. Before I walked down the aisle, I gave my two flower girls an important task. One girl I handed a rosary my husband gave me while we were dating in

By EMILY (LAHR) MOLDIZContributing Writer

PHOTOS SUBMITTEDPictured above are (from left): Emily’s parents, John and Joann Lahr, Emily and Josh Moldiz, Josh’s paternal grandmother, Anita Gisbert, and his maternal grandmother, Zoraida Reinaga. Below are (from left), Father Avelino Gonzalez and Father Dan Leary during the “Wedding Lasso” ceremony at St. Paul’s Church in Sauk Centre.

WEDDING

TRADITIONSOLD AND NEW

BLENDING CULTUREScontinued on page 6


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Melrose–Mary Ann Primus’ godchild, Ruth Primus, needed a wedding cake to be served when she got married years ago. Who did she go to? Her godmother, of course. That layered cake, with real flowers, is among the wedding cakes Mary Ann has made over the years, along with cakes for almost any other celebrations. The proof is in the photos she has taken of her cakes, from the simple birthday cake to the more challenging three-layered wedding cake with six heart-shaped cakes at the bottom. “Forty-five or 50 years,” Mary Ann said when asked how many years cake baking has been one of her many jobs. And this Melrose woman, who is well known for her meal-making talents, has made plenty of cakes during her 86 years. She started baking and decorating cakes when she and her husband, Urban, who she calls “Urbie, still lived on the farm northwest of Melrose. “Urbie’s folks (Rose and Bill Primus) were celebrating their golden anniversary and they knew I had made a cake for Cyril and Regina Wessel’s anniversary, and Rose asked me to make theirs, and then it went on and on and on from there,” said Mary Ann of how she got started making cakes. Before long, she was making requested cakes for other occasions, including weddings. And there was no going to cake-making school for Mary Ann. She learned by doing and trial and error. “I learned by myself,” she said, and with the help from Wilton cake-making books.

By CAROL MOORMANStaff Writer

Primus enjoyed wedding cake making for close to

50 years

PHOTO SUBMITTED This wedding cake, including six smaller heart-shaped cakes at the bottom, Mary Ann Primus made for the February wedding of her son, Mike, and daughter-in-law, Joyce. She also made the sheet cakes behind it.

One recent morning she pulled a stash of Wilton books out of a closet, including one that she wrote on the front “wedding cakes.” She has purchased needed cake-baking supplies over the years that have been used over and over again, including tricks of the trade like using Popsicle sticks to help stabilize cake layers. When she and Urbie lived on the farm, she’d help him with farm chores, do her housework and care for their five children–Mike, Mark, Roger, David and Lori, leaving her cake making for the evenings. She admits Urbie thought she was a little crazy for doing this. “But I enjoyed it,” she said, adding, “It could be nerve-wracking.” Especially those first years, as she honed her skills. She laughs when remembering how her cakes improved from her first to her last one. “It wasn’t always easy,” she admits. But she found practice made perfect–or almost perfect. She smiles when talking about how if a cake didn’t look straight, she knew just what to do to solve that problem. Thankfully, that didn’t happen often.

Wedding cake making Layered wedding cakes could be a three-day process. Day one she baked the needed number of

PRIMUScontinued on page 7


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Primus enjoyed wedding cake making for close to

A wartime wedding

PHOTO SUBMITTED Rose and Harold Fuchs stood

together on their wedding day in 1943.

WARTIME WEDDINGcontinued on page 6

Fuchs recalls her 1943 nuptials By LIZ VOSStaff Writer

To celebrate her brother’s 21st birthday, Rose (Welters) Fuchs of Albany attended a party at the New Munich Coliseum in April 1941. It was a chance encounter at the dance hall that changed Rose’s path in life. It was there that she met Harold. “He came across the room to ask me for a dance,” Rose said. “I couldn’t believe he was asking me.” After that night in New Munich, Rose didn’t see much of Harold. Months went by and they saw each other in passing from time to time. On Dec. 7, 1941, life changed for the United States when the country entered World War II; it was no different for those in Central Minnesota. “We were constantly afraid to find out who was being called to war,” said Rose. Harold was given a G.I. deferment, keeping him home to maintain the family farm, south of Albany. “They wanted the farms to stay in operation and Harold was needed to make that happen,” Rose explained. In 1942, Rose and Harold began seeing each other more often. “We figured out there was something clicking with us,” she said, smiling. With their young love blooming, the darkness of war hung overhead. “We did very simple things when we went out,” she said. “It was hard to enjoy much knowing that friends and family were away at war.” Despite the sadness of battle, time passed and Rose eventually accepted Harold’s proposal of marriage. The couple decided on an October wedding. “My attendants and I went to Three Sisters in the Twin Cities,” Rose said. “We picked out our dresses and that was that.” Rose’s elegant, long-sleeved dress cost $18 and her veil cost $9. October drew near and plans for the day were kept simple. “Weddings were held on Tuesdays and the dinner reception was typically held at the bride’s home,” explained Rose. Oct. 19, 1943 was a beautiful fall day. It began with a wedding ceremony at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany, followed by a horse-drawn carriage ride to her parents’ home. “My grandfather surprised us outside the church with his team of horses. It was such a simple thing but it meant so much,” said Rose. Another special addition to the day was Rose’s brother, Allen, who had come home from serving in the Air Force to be in the wedding. At her parents’ home, a small group of family, friends and neighbors gathered to enjoy a simple

but delicious meal of chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy. “Back then, neighbors helped prepare the meal,” said Rose. “And Mother made our wedding cake.” Although excitement was whirling on the day of the nuptials, Rose said the war hung heavy on everyone. “It was like there were sad clouds hanging over the day,” she said. After dinner, the couple and their wedding party headed to St. Cloud for photos. “Film was very hard to get a hold of, so we had to travel to get photographed,” Rose explained. A celebratory wedding dance held where they first met, the New Munich Coliseum, rounded out the festivities in the evening. “That was such a special time,” Rose said. “So many people came to wish us well and celebrate with us.” The dancing lasted until 1:30 or 2 a.m., as Rose recalls. But the war intercepted their celebration again, as they awoke at 4 a.m. to send Allen to England to serve in the Air

Page 6 • Star Publications - Wedding Planner - January 2014Page 6 • Star Publications - Wedding Planner - January 2014

BLENDING CULTURES continued from page 3_________________________________________________________________________________________

WARTIME WEDDING continued from page 5___________________________________________________________________________________________

Force once again. The couple, rather than going on a honeymoon, joined Harold’s family on the farm the day after their wedding to shred corn. Rose and Harold lived on the Fuchs farm for about a year until settling in to a place of their own not far away. Although Harold passed away in 1974, Rose continues to be surrounded by their eight children, 17 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Over 70 years after their wedding day, Rose considers it a fond memory, despite the shadows of war. “Those were different times,” she said. “But they were simple and good.”

PHOTO SUBMITTED The wedding party of Rose and Harold Fuchs on Oct. 19, 1943. Attendants included (from left) Rita Fuchs, Addie (Sperl) Baggenstoss, Mickey Bienek, Rose (Welters) Fuchs, Harold Fuchs, Allen Welters (in his Air Force uniform), Ray Fuchs and flower girl, Shirley Fuchs.

Cutline goes here....

college. The other flower girl I gave a short note for my husband to read before he saw me walk down the aisle. I remember peeking through the door as I saw the girls give the groom these two gifts and saw his eyes get a little teary. I have Pinterest to thank for that beautiful moment. The traditions did not end after the Mass but continued on at the reception.

We had our first dance together and the father daughter dance. My husband’s mother passed away when he was a toddler, so he took the opportunity to recognize all the mothers who raised him by presenting each of them with a rose. I think we had every guest wiping tears from their eyes. We picked things back up with the traditional Midwestern dollar dance. His family and friends from Maryland had never heard of this before but they were the first to jump in line. I also warned them that every Stearns County wedding is not complete without the “Chicken Dance,” the “Hokey Pokey” and good old-fashioned polka music. They showed us up with a little salsa dancing and some Spanish hits of their own. In the middle of the night, my family pulled my husband and I over to the bar for a traditional family shot. I am not sure how this started but at every family wedding we cannot pass the Moser shot. Part of the reason our wedding was so special to us was because many of our collage friends from across the U.S. came to the wedding, including our households which are known at Franciscan University of Steubenville as Catholic sororities and fraternities. It is tradition for the household to induct the spouse into their household on their wedding day. I was pulled away from the guests for nearly 10 minutes and was inducted into my husband’s household, where they revealed to me all their secrets and presented me with their household gift. The meaning behind this is that since we are now one, no secrets are to be kept from one another. Looking back, my husband and I laugh about some of the traditions but others we keep very close to our heart. Do not be afraid to include the religious and the crazy family or college traditions in your wedding planning. These are the moments that will make your wedding rich and memorable.

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 long-term goals and how each of you can

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

Tips for newlyweds about to merge financesfinances, 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 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 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, bi-weekly 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 partner’s 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.

Newlyweds Emily and Josh Moldiz surrounded by their wedding party on their big day.


Page 6 • Star Publications - Wedding Planner - January 2014Page 6 • Star Publications - Wedding Planner - January 2014 Star Publications - Wedding Planner - January 2014 • Page 7

continued from page 4 StorY - (caroL)

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cakes, which varied depending on the style of cake the bride chose. “I liked using Duncan Hines cake mixes, and sometimes I would add pudding,” she said. After the cakes were cooled, she trimmed each one using a saw-like tool. Popsicle sticks were placed in the layers and what she calls a plastic plate was placed on the top of each layer. Decorating the cakes started with two coats of icing. “The first layer of icing covers the crumbs,” said Mary Ann. The thicker the icing, the better, she said. That goes for icing used to make flowers as well. She has special tools used to make flowers, like roses. Putting the cake together, most often at the wedding reception, could be time-consuming, as she placed pillars in between layers, often ending with a cake top furnished by the couple.

Personalized wedding cake wishes Mary Ann has no idea how many wedding cakes she has made for family, friends and people referred to her.

“I made quite a few for nieces and nephews,” she said. And, of course, for her and Urbie’s married children. She remembers when their only daughter, Lori, married Tim Mayers, Mary Ann made the cake and Lori decorated it. On this day, she found the photo of that cake with real flowers. Mary Ann said the tradition of making cakes for weddings has changed over the years. “Now, some people have cupcakes or even cookies,” she said. These days her wedding cake making has dwindled, but she continues to prepare meals for funerals at St. Mary’s Church in Melrose and other events. She laughs when asked how long she will do this. “I just thank God every day that I can do everything that I do,” said Mary Ann, who doesn’t let grass grow under her feet. That includes all her cake making.

PHOTOS BY CAROL MOORMAN Cupcakes and even cookies are sometimes used, these days, in place of a wedding cake. Above, Mary Ann Primus holds cupcakes she decorated with roses, similar to how she would for a wedding.

PHOTOS BY CAROL MOORMAN Mary Ann Primus has purchased many tools for making cakes over the years. Above, she explains how she uses this saw-like tool to even out cake tops.

PRIMUS continued from page 4________________________________________________________________________________________________________

BLENDING CULTURES continued from page 3_________________________________________________________________________________________

WARTIME WEDDING continued from page 5___________________________________________________________________________________________



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By EMILY (LAHR) MOLDIZContributing Writer

Emily and Josh Moldiz at their wedding on May 17, 2013. PHOTO SUBMITTED

Looking back at my life this time last year, I was writing two theses, taking 17 credits, working three jobs, trying to graduate and planning my May wedding. Instead of being like most brides who dream about their wedding day, I was dreaming about the day after and how much easier it was going to be compared to my college life. Little did I know that marriage was not only going to be wonderful but also challenging as we adjusted to our new life together. The first adjustment for me was getting used to living with a man. Sure, I grew up with brothers but we never had to share a bedroom together. Reluctantly, I had to give up half of my closet space and I had to fight for my covers. I am also the type of person who can fall asleep as soon as my head hits the pillow, while


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my husband, Josh, on the other hand needs to unwind. Sometimes he would be talking to me without knowing I had passed out 10 minutes before. We learned that talking during dating was nothing like communicating during marriage. We knew that I was more passive and he was more active but we learned real fast that no matter how hard we tried we would still have arguments. We just had to learn to not sweat the small stuff. Living under the same roof, we had to compromise on a few things like food, TV channels, music and even our sports teams. I have to admit I had to leave the Vikings for the Philadelphia Eagles, but I was able to convert my husband to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The second adjustment for us was understanding our differences in our heritages. My husband is full Bolivian and I am as German as you can get. He is very expressive and passionate while most of the time I can remain stoic and expressionless. During the holidays, his family can be just as loud as mine with half the number of people. I also had to overcome a language barrier since his grandparents and some of his aunts and uncles still speak mainly Spanish. It made me wish I would have paid more attention to Spanish in high school. My husband jokes that the only way I will learn is if I sit with his grandmothers and watch Spanish soap operas for a couple of days. With my family, Josh had to learn that the best way to start a conversation was to ask about the weather or how the crops were doing. The third adjustment for me was moving away from the slow-paced

Minnesota life to the fast-paced city of D.C. My poor husband had to watch me struggle through some of the geographic differences. I learned the hard way that smiling and greeting strangers on the road was considered intrusive or down-right creepy. One thing that bothered me was when people said goodbye, they actually left and didn’t continue talking for the next half hour. There is no such thing as the “Minnesota Goodbye” out here. I tried not to laugh when the county would close down schools and work places when an inch of snow was in the forecast. My poor husband on the other hand had to adjust to the unpredictable and cold Minnesota weather. During our Christmas visits I had to take him shopping for some North Face winter clothes. After eight months into marriage and a few embarrassing moments, we feel pretty adjusted to mar-ried life. We figured while we are on the road to adjustments why not add another blessing. Yes, that is right; Baby Moldiz is on the way and will be the perfect one-year anniversary gift.


Offi ce Hours: Mon. & Wed. 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tues. & Thurs. 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

320-845-2032360 Railroad AvenueAlbany, MN 56307

Of All the Details You Consider for Your Special Day,

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Outdoor Weddingsat Diamond Point:

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Stearns County Weddings Data collected in this report is courtesy of www.costofwedding.com, and reflects input from residents of Albany, Avon, Belgrade, Brooten, Cold Spring, Freeport, Holdingford, Kimball, Melrose, Paynesville, Richmond, St. Cloud, St. Joseph, St. Stephen, Sartell, Sauk Centre and Waite Park. Your individual costs will vary greatly, depending upon your location, venue and number of guests. Spending and prices can vary widely. Investigate all options and choose products and services that best meet your needs. You should expect to spend 50% to 100%+ more when choosing well-experienced professionals, designer labels, popular event locations, or unique or custom products and services. The amount you spend will also be affected by the number of guests you invite to your wedding. Many couples that get married in Stearns County spend between $17,030 and $28,383 on average for their wedding. However, most couples spend less than $10,000. The chart below shows the percent of couples that spend in different ranges.

46% <$10,00024% $10,000 - $19,999 16% $20,000 - $29,99914% $30,000+

16% $20,000 - $29,99914% $30,000+

46% <$10,00024% $10,000 - $19,999

16% $20,000 - $29,99914% $30,000+

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46% <$10,00024% $10,000 - $19,999 16% $20,000 - $29,99914% $30,000+

The average wedding cost is based on number of guests estimated between 154 and 174. A single guest could add between $125 and $152 to the overall cost of your wedding. The best way to save money on your wedding is to control the number of guests.

Breakdown by Category

Attire & Accessories $1.46KBeauty & Spa $117Entertainment $1.12KFlowers & Decorations $1.29KGifts & Favors $576Invitations $768Jewelry $3.59KPhotography & Video $2.44KPlanner/Consultant $1.31KVenue, Catering & Rentals $10.04K

A few highlights of the survey on www.costofwedding.com include:

Attire and Accessories: The cost of wedding dresses averages between $870 and $1,450, with dress accessories between $162-$270, with 80-90% of couples spending money on these items.Entertainment: DJ services average $507-$845, with up to 73% of couples utilizing them.Flowers: 88% of brides carried bouquets ranging in cost from $94-$156.Favors: 80% of couples spent between $149 and $249 on favors.Invitations: 95% of couples sent out invitations at a cost of $168-$280, excluding postage.Jewelry: Engagement rings averaged $2,393-$3,988, while wedding bands ranged from $876-$1,460. Photographer: 88% of couples spent an average of $1,183-$1,971 on photographers.Planner/Consultant: Fewer than 20 percent of couples use any sort of planner or consultant services. Venue, Catering and Rentals: This category varies the most, with the average amount spent per couple at just over $10,000.

16% $20,000 - $29,99914% $30,000+

16% $20,000 - $29,99914% $30,000+










DetailsMake the Difference!





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Traditions...

The First DancesMany couples are choosing to skip the traditional first dances, and get

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There will be plenty of time to set them up after the wedding.

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Traditions... Traditions some couples are now foregoing

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The Garter BeltQuote from a blogger: There is absolutely nothing more awkward than your 90-year-old great-aunt watching your husband pull a lacy piece of lingerie from under your wedding dress with his teeth. Enough said.


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Lilies are some of the many flowers that are plentiful in summer.

This handy checklist shows what flowers will be most abundant on your big day!

What’s Your Wedding Season?

Baby’s Breath * whiteBachelor’s Button * white, pink, red or blueCalla Lily * white is widely available, other colors available, particularly in mini sizeCarnations * many colorsDelphinium * blue, white, purpleEucalyptus * blue, silverGardenia * whiteGladiolus * many colorsHeather * pinkLily of the Valley * white, pinkOrchid * pink, white, purple, other colorsProtea * pinkRose * many colors ***Feb. at a premiumScabiosa * purple, white

Wedding Flowers Available Year-Round

SpringAnemone * blue, red, pink, white * Jan.-May and Aug-Dec. Bells of Ireland * green * Jan.-Oct.Boronia * pink * April-MayCasa Blanca Lily * white * Jan.-Oct.Daffodil * yellow * Jan.-early MayDelphinium * white, blue * April-Oct.Hyacinth * purple, pink or whiteLilacs * violet or whiteNarcissus * whitePeony * pink or white * late spring-early summerRanunculus * white, pink, red, orange and yellow * Feb.-MayStar Gazer Lily * pink and white * Jan.-Oct.Sweetpea * white, pink, red/coral, and lavender/purple * Dec.-MayTulip * many colors, including white, pink, yellow, red, and purple * Dec.-AprilWaxflower * pinky purple and white

SummerAlstromeria * orange, pink, yellow and cream, other colorsBells of Ireland * green * Jan.-Oct.Chrysanthemum * white, yellow, orange, pink, other colorsEnglish Lavender * purpleForget-me-not * blueFreesia * white, yellow, pink, blue, purple

Gerbera Daisy * pink, yellow, orange, red, whiteHydrangea * white, blue, purple, pinkIris * purple, blue, whiteLarkspur * white, purple, blue, pinkLiatris * pinkish purpleLily, asiatic * white, pink, yellow, orangeLily, oriental * white, pinkLisianthus * purple, white, pinkMatsumoto Asters * pink, purpleMonte Casino Asters * white, purpleQueen Anne’s Lace * whiteSnapdragons * pink, yellow, orange, white, other colorsSolidaster * yellowStatice * purpleStephanotis * whiteStock * white, other colorsSunflower * yellowTuberose * whiteYarrow * white, pink, yellowZinnia * red, orange, pink

FallAster * white, pinkChrysanthemum * white, yellow, orange, pink, other colorsDahlia * many colorsMarigold * yellow, orange, redStatice * purpleZinnia * red, orange, pink * Dried Leaves

WinterAmaryllis * red, whiteAnemone * blue, red, pink, white * Jan-May and Aug-Dec. Bells of Ireland * green * Jan.-Oct.Camellias * white, pinkCasa Blanca Lily * white * Jan.-Oct.Cosmos * pink, white, brown, other colorsDaffodil * yellow * Jan.-early MayForget-me-nots * blueHolly * green with red berriesJasmine * whiteNarcissus * white, yellowPoinsettia * red, whiteRanunculus * white, pink, red, orange and yellow * Feb.-MayStar Gazer Lily * pink and white * Jan.-Oct.Star of Bethlehem * whiteSweetpea * white, pink, red/coral, and lavender/purple * Dec.-MayTulip * many colors, including white, pink, yellow, red, and purple * Dec.-AprilWaxflower * pink, white

Dahlias are fall favorites and come in many colors.

This beautiful spring bouquet features anemone, ranunculus and sweet peas.

Amaryllis blooms accent this lovely winter bouquet.


9 – 12 Months Before:___ Choose your wedding date and time___ Reserve the date, time and location of your wedding with your officiant___ Set tentative wedding budget and decide how the expenses will be shared___ Estimate number of guests from both sides. This estimated number is very important as it will be required when shopping for a reception location___ Select and book your reception location. At this time you should also have in mind the type of menu you would like___ Choose your bridal party___ Shop for a wedding dress, headpiece, shoes and other accessories___ Book your photographer, disc jockey, musicians and other entertainment for ceremony and reception___ Consider hiring a wedding consultant

6 – 9 Months Before:___ Publish your engagement in your local newspaper___ Select and book your mode of transportation to and from ceremony and reception___ Determine final guest list with all parties___ Register with shops that offer bridal registries___ Choose and book your florist___ Select and order your invitations___ Consult with your travel agent and book your honeymoon. At this time, it is also wise to prepare all passport information___ Shop for bridesmaid dresses and accessories___ Shop for your wedding bands.

4 – 6 Months Before:___ Decide on your speakers for your reception – master of ceremonies etc.___ Book men’s formal wear___ Finalize all guest information and begin to write your invitations

3 Months Before:___ Make arrangements to obtain your marriage license___ Begin to make arrangements for your hotel room after your reception. ___ Book a block of rooms to accommodate out-of-town guests___ Complete all wedding invitations___ Schedule fittings for all bridal attire. Make sure you bring your bridal shoes___ Finalize details of your wedding ceremony - choose ceremony option. ___ Book an appointment with the organist or soloist___ Arrange rehearsal details___ Order your wedding cake, ring pillow, garter, knives & servers, guest book and fountain pen___ If your reception site does not provide liquor, contact a wine and liquor representative and obtain a liquor license___ Book an appointment with hairdresser and make-up artist

1 – 2 Months Before:___Verify all details with all hired professionals, including florist, limousines, photographers/videographer etc.___ Mail wedding invitations to your guests___ Arrange with someone to house sit___ Organize rehearsal dinners___ Arrange trial run of bridal hair and make-up___ Finalize honeymoon details with travel agent___ Submit a layout of reception to disc jockey, master of ceremonies; and any other party who plays a role at a particular time___ Select and purchase attendants’ gifts___ Arrange change of address and all other forms of identification that need to be changed___ Determine your travel needs - that is, a new suitcase, swimsuit etc.___ Bride: start wearing your wedding shoes on a daily basis to work them in

1 to 2 Weeks Before:___ Finalize guest numbers with caterer or hall. At this time, inform them of any special exceptions you may require – food allergies, vegetarian meals, etc. This step may require you to contact any guests who have not yet replied to your invitation___ Pick up gown and bridal party dresses___ Pick up airline tickets, traveler’s checks___ Verify accommodations for out-of-town guests___ Prepare a checklist of details to be assigned to bridal party___ Organize your gown preservation and cleaning. This task can be completed while you are on your honeymoon___ Prepare seating plans, seating cards and master guest list for reception___ Pick up wedding bands; make sure they fit___ Best man should organize final formal wear fittings the men in the wedding party. He should also arrange to return the groom’s attire the next day___ Book facials, waxing and any other aesthetics that are required___ Finish packing for your honeymoon___ Arrange transportation for bridal party from ceremony to photos or reception

Day Before:___ Have a manicure and pedicure___ Pick up formal wear___ Take a trip to your reception site to ensure that the location is ready for the reception. This will be your last chance to set up.___Give wedding bands and marriage license to best man or other designated person___ Rehearsal dinner takes place and gifts are given to wedding party

Day Of:___ Transfer your engagement ring to your right hand___ Be dressed and ready for photographer/videographer approximately 2 hours before the ceremony or according to your arrangements___Hairdresser and make-up artist will arrive according to your arrangements___ Relax and smile! Enjoy your special day.

After the Wedding:___ Arrange for someone to pick up your wedding dress & accessories if you will be leaving for your honeymoon directly from your hotel___ Have your gown cleaned & preserved___ Begin writing thank you notes___ Have your favorite photos custom framed___ Put your wedding & honeymoon memories in a scrapbook

ChecklistWEDDING PLANNING

Q

What’s Your Wedding Season?

Baby’s Breath * whiteBachelor’s Button * white, pink, red or blueCalla Lily * white is widely available, other colors available, particularly in mini sizeCarnations * many colorsDelphinium * blue, white, purpleEucalyptus * blue, silverGardenia * whiteGladiolus * many colorsHeather * pinkLily of the Valley * white, pinkOrchid * pink, white, purple, other colorsProtea * pinkRose * many colors ***Feb. at a premiumScabiosa * purple, white

Wedding Flowers Available Year-Round

Gerbera Daisy * pink, yellow, orange, red, whiteHydrangea * white, blue, purple, pinkIris * purple, blue, whiteLarkspur * white, purple, blue, pinkLiatris * pinkish purpleLily, asiatic * white, pink, yellow, orangeLily, oriental * white, pinkLisianthus * purple, white, pinkMatsumoto Asters * pink, purpleMonte Casino Asters * white, purpleQueen Anne’s Lace * whiteSnapdragons * pink, yellow, orange, white, other colorsSolidaster * yellowStatice * purpleStephanotis * whiteStock * white, other colorsSunflower * yellowTuberose * whiteYarrow * white, pink, yellowZinnia * red, orange, pink

FallAster * white, pinkChrysanthemum * white, yellow, orange, pink, other colorsDahlia * many colorsMarigold * yellow, orange, redStatice * purpleZinnia * red, orange, pink * Dried Leaves

WinterAmaryllis * red, whiteAnemone * blue, red, pink, white * Jan-May and Aug-Dec. Bells of Ireland * green * Jan.-Oct.Camellias * white, pinkCasa Blanca Lily * white * Jan.-Oct.Cosmos * pink, white, brown, other colorsDaffodil * yellow * Jan.-early MayForget-me-nots * blueHolly * green with red berriesJasmine * whiteNarcissus * white, yellowPoinsettia * red, whiteRanunculus * white, pink, red, orange and yellow * Feb.-MayStar Gazer Lily * pink and white * Jan.-Oct.Star of Bethlehem * whiteSweetpea * white, pink, red/coral, and lavender/purple * Dec.-MayTulip * many colors, including white, pink, yellow, red, and purple * Dec.-AprilWaxflower * pink, white

Dahlias are fall favorites and come in many colors.

Amaryllis blooms accent this lovely winter bouquet.


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WEDDINGS • GRADUATION PARTIES • ANNIVERSARIES • REUNIONS

EnjoyYour

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From cop to wedding shopFormer Stearns County Deputy now owns full-service bridal salon

When Jennifer Morrison married Matt Mayers five years ago in a small church in Kimball, she had no idea that one day she would own the church and sell wedding dresses out of it. At the time she was a deputy for the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office. A 1994 graduate of Belgrade High School, she attended Ridgewater College to study psychology. Along the way she picked up an associate’s degree in criminal justice and soon became a deputy in 2002. She worked the road for nine years, but working the overnight shift was putting a toll on her body and her family life. It was time to write a new chapter. “I’ve always loved fashion, decorating and planning,” she said. “I’m kind of an organizer.” After marrying Matt, she was introduced to Sue Spanier, who along with her husband, Dale, was friends with Matt’s family. Spanier (Gilk), owned The Tuxedo Connection, a business she ran out of her home for 13 years, and also worked at Albany Country Floral, a shop her parents owned. Spanier has a degree in floral design, and she and Mayers quickly struck up a friendship that soon grew into a partnership. They got serious about it when Jennifer and Matt got married on Dec. 5. It was -19 degrees and there was 18 inches of snow outside, but Spanier still delivered the flowers to the church in Kimball on time. “This is when we started talking about expanding her business into a storefront full-service bridal salon,” said Mayers. “We worked on it for three years.” They found a location in Richmond and opened their first store. Then they were able to obtain St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kimball, the same place Jennifer and Matt were married. “Obviously the Kimball location has a special meaning to me,” said Mayers. Since they opened the two locations, business has been good. They enjoy attending expos in the area and research upcoming trends in wedding fashion and décor. Their two stores offer a full-service bridal salon, gowns for the entire party, tuxedos, floral, decorating and rentals. “We keep up with the latest trends by going to markets,” Mayers said. “We have been to Chicago twice and Florida once.” Some of the latest trends they have noticed are cowboy boots, lace and more outdoor weddings. The colors mint and purple are also becoming more popular for bridesmaid gowns and wedding decorations. Some wedding parties are having bridesmaids wear all different gowns. Gray tuxedos and ivory bridal gowns are becoming a hit, and bridal gowns are starting to have illusion tops/sleeves. Mayers said it’s important to go into choosing a bridal gown with an open mind. “Women should be willing to try different silhouettes,” she said. “Start by eliminating the styles you don’t like to find the one you do. Don’t sweat the small stuff, and remember, the only one who will know something is out of place is you, so just enjoy your day.” As for flowers, Spanier said most brides are still interested in standard flowers. Some are going for more of a country look and most are staying with fresh flowers over silk. Spanier traditionally sets flowers up at the church and pins boutonnières to the wedding party. Then it’s off to the wedding hall to decorate. “We set up that day and take down that evening,” said Spanier. “It makes a for a lot of busy Saturdays.”

By BRYAN ZOLLMANStaff Writer

Mayers and Spanier have helped a number of brides make their wedding day special in their last two years as a full-service bridal salon. “Sue and I have been blessed to have so many wonderful people in our life helping us along this journey,” Mayers said. Mayers credits Spanier and her talent at floral arrangement, as a big reason for the company’s success. “This business would not be as successful as it has been without Sue,” she said. “The floral arrangements she puts together are beyond beautiful.” It’s been quite a transition for Mayers, trading in her gun and handcuffs for wedding dresses, jewelry and flowers. But she has never looked back, is loving her new career, and looks forward to many more years of success in helping engaged couples create the perfect day. “We can’t wait to see what is in store for us in 2014,” she said. “Law enforcement was my job, but the Wedding & Tuxedo Connection is my passion.”

PHOTOS SUBMITTEDWedding gowns now adorn the inside of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kimball. It was the same church Jennifer Mayers was married in.

The Tuxedo & Wedding Connection is a full-service bridal shop with locations in Richmond (pictured above) and Kimball.

Sue Spanier (left) and Jennifer Mayers are co-owners of The Tuxedo & Wedding Connection in Richmond and Kimball. Mayers is from Belgrade and Spanier from Albany. Mayers was a deputy with the Stearns County Sheriff ’s Office before entering into the wedding business.


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Wedding Packages with up to 10 hours of coverage

Area Bridal Shows

ST. CLOUDSunday, Jan. 12 • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Fashion shows at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.River’s Edge Convention Center

QALEXANDRIA

Sunday, Jan. 19 • 12 noon to 3 p.m.Holiday Inn


131 5th StreetAlbany, MN 56307

320-845-4440

State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI)State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI)

Bloomington, IL0901033

Your new life together starts now.Protect each other from this day forward. Get the life insurance that’s right for you. Like a good neighbor,State Farm is there.®

CALL ME TODAY.

I do. I do.

Dina Pierskalla, Agent209 East Main StreetMelrose, MN 56352

Bus: 320-256-4617 Toll Free: 877-256-4617www.dinapierskalla.com




CALL ME TODAY.

I do. I do.






CALL ME TODAY.

I do. I do.





Dina Pierskalla, Agent www.dinapierskalla.com

Chris Johnson, Agentwww.chrisjohnsoninsurance.com

209 East Main StreetMelrose, MN 56352

Toll Free: 877-256-4617

309 Main Street SouthSauk Centre, MN 56378

Bus: [email protected]

CALL US TODAY.

877-845-7368

We make it easy! • Canopies & Setup Services• Tables, Linens & Chairs

• Food Prep Supplies• Centerpieces

• Candelabras & Arches• Stages & Dance Floors

• Sound Systems• Crowd Control Rope

Whether you’re planning an indoor or outdoor celebration,

we can help you create the wedding day of your dreams,

with the supplies and services you need.

Create Your Perfect Wedding Day!

General Rental Center of Albany750 County Road 41 • Albany, MN 56307

• Outdoor Weddings• Anniversary Parties• Tournament• Groom’s Dinners• Bridal Showers• Meetings

10548 Andrews DriveSauk Centre, MN 56378

877-350-8849320-351-4653

www.greystonegc.net

Perfect Location for:

Located on BeautifulSauk Lake!

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Package deals available upon request

Trends in wedding apparelJacki from Meads Department Store in Sauk Centre fills us in with the following trends in men’s formal wear:

• Trends in the bridal tuxedo industry are grey or tan tuxedos as newer/fresher colors. Layering pocket squares in the tuxedo pockets has been popular.Some grooms/brides are doing a suit rather than a tux or eliminating the jacket, and just doing a shirt, tie and pant. Meads provides tuxedo rentals for the groom, groomsmen, ushers, fathers, and ringbearers. The cost of the tuxedo rental includes a jacket, pant, shirt, tie, vest, shoes and pockets squares—everything needed included in the cost—no hidden fees. We started providing this service in the last 11 years. Customers like the convenience of being able to pick it up locally and ease in returning it as well as the convenience of the wedding party being measured so close to home. We often give the bride color swatches she can take a few doors down to Centre Floral to match her floral arrangements. We see repeat prom customers that use the service for their special wedding day, too—it’s fun to work with them then and now! As a service, we do measure guys for weddings that are booked at other out-of-town bridal shops.

Layering pocket squares is a current trend in men’s formal wear

Grey and tan tuxedos have been popular and are likely to remain so in 2014.


Something old, something new.Family-owned and operated since 1950, we're one of the premier venues for receptions, celebrations and events of all kind. With our classic menus and

excellent customer service, we work to ensure every experience is unforgettable.

Great location! Being only about 30 mins from both Brainerd and St. Cloud makes Little Falls a great central location for any event.

Learn more about us: www.fallsballroom.com | [email protected]

15870 Minnesota 27, Little Falls, MN 56345

Jackie from Jacki J’s Bridal and Formal Wear in Alexandria fills us in with the following trends in bridal apparel and accessories:

• The biggest trend in bridal wear is anything vintage. • Brides are wearing a lot of colors like blush, champagne, peach and coral. • Many of the styles are soft, rustic and outdoorsy looking, due to an increase of weddings being held in barns, outside, or other rustic settings. • Modest bridal gowns are making a big comeback. This year the shop has 45-50 gowns with sleeves and higher necklines. According to Jackie, there have been very few gowns like that even available for the last 15-18 years. Two years ago, they didn’t have even one. Jackie thinks it’s a good trend, since “nine times out of ten, when brides are spilling out of their gowns, it doesn’t look pretty.” • Very few brides are wearing veils, choosing to go with just their hair styles or simple accessories like clips • Colored shoes are in, with many brides wearing shoes to match their bridesmaids, or going with blue. • For second marriages, roughly 10 percent of brides go with traditional gowns, with many wearing bridesmaids dresses in white or ivory. Another option is one of the many special occasion dresses available. • In accessories, brides are likely to choose large earrings and bracelets, with fewer of them wearing necklaces.

Jackie enjoys working at the bridal shop, but says like any job, you get burned out once in awhile. What keeps her going is attending the market twice a year, after which she comes back re-inspired.

One last tip: Don’t be afraid to be creative and personalize your wedding. It’s your special day, and to end up later with photos that reflect your own personal style is a great thing.

Jacki from Meads Department Store in Sauk Centre fills us in with the following trends in men’s formal wear:

• Trends in the bridal tuxedo industry are grey or tan tuxedos as newer/fresher colors. Layering pocket squares in the tuxedo pockets has been popular.Some grooms/brides are doing a suit rather than a tux or eliminating the jacket, and just doing a shirt, tie and pant. Meads provides tuxedo rentals for the groom, groomsmen, ushers, fathers, and ringbearers. The cost of the tuxedo rental includes a jacket, pant, shirt, tie, vest, shoes and pockets squares—everything needed included in the cost—no hidden fees. We started providing this service in the last 11 years. Customers like the convenience of being able to pick it up locally and ease in returning it as well as the convenience of the wedding party being measured so close to home. We often give the bride color swatches she can take a few doors down to Centre Floral to match her floral arrangements. We see repeat prom customers that use the service for their special wedding day, too—it’s fun to work with them then and now! As a service, we do measure guys for weddings that are booked at other out-of-town bridal shops.

Big bracelets are a hot item at bridal shops for 2014.

Big earrings are replacing necklaces.

Sleeves and higher necklines are making a big comeback.

Anything vintage is trendy for 2014.

Colored shoes!

Some grooms are choosing to opt out of the jacket, dressing

in shirt and tie


Est. 2011Osakis, MN

Give Usa Call!

300 East Pike Street • 320-859-2256Osakis, MN • www.pantherdistillery.com

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