Something Different

by Lisa Beth Miller Local bride Andrea Gillis, a former wedding professional herself, knew the importance of being super-organized about planning her wedding to her fiance, Marty. The worldwide health emergency known as COVID-19, however, offered an unprecedented challenge to her meticulous plans. “We wanted to get married in our neighborhood, at a beautiful manor home, which is actually managed by the local city government. Due to all of the virus-related closures, the facility has cancelled all weddings up to May 4th. Things kind of started to unravel on March 18th. After speaking to my location’s representatives, they offered us a refund. With everyone pushing back their wedding dates 3-6 months out, I just couldn’t reschedule for a later date. I was afraid all of my vendors would cancel on us,” Andrea explained. Venue and caterer were the two biggest …

By Erin Pittman Sponsored by Pampered Chef One of the most popular rooms to stock from a bridal registry is the kitchen. Who doesn’t want new stoneware, appliances and gadgets for entertaining in a new home? What if you could do so in a more creative and fun way? Anna Tjoumas, local Pampered Chef consultant, offers creative twists on the traditional bridal registries and showers. With typical registries, couples go to the store and register. With Pampered Chef, they get more. “Couples create their registries, have a shower and receive all the host benefits including free and discounted items, plus monthly specials,” said Anna. Pampered Chef Bridal Showers At the shower, guests shop from a couple’s Pampered Chef registry and can purchase items for themselves, too. There’s no need for guests to shop ahead, as they can complete their shopping …

By Amanda Baity Floral initials are beautiful, personal wedding decorations, especially when filled with the couple’s favorite plants. They are great to make for your own wedding or to give as a gift to a gardening friend who is tying the knot. Try the couple’s first initials, or just their last initial if you only have time to make one. Or go all out and spell their names if you have the time! Wire Outline: To make your personalized floral initials you’ll need to begin with a wire frame. You can make them yourself, but they can be found at many craft and garden stores. The time and trouble saved to make the small cost worth it. You’ll also need moss to line your letters, plants to fill them and dirt for your plants to grow. Try to choose plants …

We love finding new gift ideas for our readers to give to their wedding party. Recently we were introduced to Whiskey Stones. Ice is Nice, but Whiskey Rocks! Let’s face it, watered down whiskey isn’t cool.  Give a personalized gift that is different and useful at the same time. The Rock n’ Cold Whiskey Stone set Includes: -6 Engraved Whiskey Stones.  The Whiskey Stones are 100% Soapstone and measure 1″ x 1″ -1 Muslin Bag -1 Instructions card Wash the rocks before the first use and dry completely. Put the rocks in the Muslin bag and place in the freezer for at least 3 hours.  Put the rocks in your chosen beverage (Whiskey / Wine etc…) to chill it without watering it down. These rocks can even be heated and used to keep coffee or tea warm. They are dishwasher and food safe and never wear out. Remember, …