Vermont Weddings - Vermont Bride Magazine

Do’s and Don’ts of Cake Cutting

2011-08-07T17:52:00.000-07:00

Photograph [above] by Jeff Schneiderman Photography

Tips for your moment before the cake when everyone is watching and the cameras are clicking:

Do’s: If the reception is a brunch or tea, cut the cake after all guests have gone through the receiving line or after dinner if an evening reception.

Be sure the DJ or MC, photographer, and videographer know when the cake cutting is to begin and have it announced or make known by playing the first dance song. After the first toast (typically done by the best man), it’s time.

If possible, use a special silver cake knife for the occasion. Danforth Pewter and The Kitchen Store at J.K. Adams have wonderful selections.

The groom’s right hand holds the bride’s right hand as they slice through the bottom layer.

From the first cut piece, the groom feeds the bride and then bride will feed the groom.

The groom is expected to offer slices to the bride’s parents and groom’s parents will receive their slices from their new daughter-in-law.

Don’t: To smush or not to smush the cake in the face of your spouse should be discussed well before the fondant is in close proximately to your face! How do you want the official first act as a married couple to be: classy and dignified or messy and unsightly?

After spending time, energy, and money with professional make up and hair styling, the last thing a bride wants is to disturb is her flawless face and every-strand-in-place up-do. A graceful, gentle cake bite offering is a refined choice. This moment will be captured on film and memory cards and stay in the minds of guests for years––make it a proud one.

Photo [above] by The Portrait Gallery

Click here for the full online article by Vermont Bride Magazine writer and editor Karen Sturtevant.

Second Annual Vermont Bride Gala

2011-07-22T18:47:00.000-07:00

Click the above "play" to watch a special video presentation for the upcoming 2011 2nd Annual Vermont Bride Gala, to be held at the Barn at Boyden on October 9, 2011.
Or view it online at YOU TUBE right now!

Read about the Gala online here.

Potted Plants: The Ideal Accent for Your Vermont Wedding

2011-07-14T03:12:00.000-07:00

Potted plants are beautiful, cost effective and a versatile addition to any wedding.

One of the best places to incorporate plants is at the ceremony. Whether purchased or rented, they are an efficient and dramatic way to make a church or synagogue appear full, especially for buildings with high vaulted ceilings. Larger plants like ficus, Boston ferns and palm trees can be grouped behind the altar to provide a backdrop. Medium-sized and hanging plants (with hangers removed) can be placed in decorative containers and scattered down the aisle to create a lush, garden look. Plants clustered on steps or windowsills will provide splashes of color and a garden ambiance. If your wedding is planned around a holiday, many houses of worship are already decorated with seasonal blooming plants, which are available for the bride to use at no additional cost.

Cost of accenting with potted plants

If the bride is concerned about the additional cost of accenting with potted plants, then she should remember that they can serve more than just a decorative purpose. They also make wonderful thank you gifts for the attendants, clergy, readers—or for anyone who has helped with the wedding. Also, if the bride, groom or their parents normally decorate their homes with window boxes, hanging baskets or planters, the wedding plants could be used for this purpose, before and after the wedding. The multipurpose use for plants is not only true for the ceremony flowers, but for the reception centerpieces as well.

At the reception, plants make vibrant, low cost centerpieces and they can be given to the guests as favors. A group of small potted plants (one for each guest who is sitting at the table) can be clustered in a single low container which matches the wedding in style and color, and then set on the reception tables. Or, the plants could simply be placed in individual decorative containers, set on the table and interspersed with votive candles.

Click here to read more of this article by florist Pat Esden, including Hints and Tips, The Meaning of Plants, and a special section on African Violets.

Or click here for more information about Pat Esden, florist.

SAVE THE DATE! Vermont Bride - 2nd Annual 2011 GALA at THE BARN at Boyden Farm

2011-07-12T02:04:00.000-07:00

Sunday, October 9, 2011 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Cocktails. Eats. Dessert. Dancing Evening Attire Expected

Not your typical bridal show!

MORE INFO COMING! CHECK BACK.

Love Story: Leah (Harstenstein) & Greg Morse

2011-07-04T05:24:00.000-07:00

Photos by Daria Bishop

Leah (Harstenstein) & Greg Morse

On Halloween night, 2003, while attending my first year at Wagner College in New York City, I met Greg, another freshman. He was from upstate New York and ran on the Division I track team. We spent the night watching the famous Greenwich Village Halloween parade with a group of close friends. I was dressed as a Christmas tree, Greg as himself. We both had fun that night but did not think much of it. As college started to fly by we became the best of friends. Everyone thought we were dating, but we just loved spending time together! Finally, when it just so happened that we were both single, we decided to try dating.

As college finished, Greg took a Wall Street job and I stayed in school to pursue my master’s degree. We stayed very close, both living on the Upper East side and enjoyed time together.

Our Engagement

We both love to travel! We were on a two week trip to South America with my parents; on our second night in Chile, there was an incredible sunset over the ocean. We were sipping wine on a balcony staring off into the sky when Greg told me he’d be right back. He came back and gave me a small Tiffany’s box, but not a ring box. I opened it and there was a beautiful necklace with the initials “LKM.” My last name started with an “H” so I was not sure if the store made a mistake. I gave him a puzzled look, he asked me if I knew what the necklace meant. Before I could say anything, he said, “They are your new initials if you say yes.” He pulled my grandmother’s amazing engagement ring out of his pocket and that was it!

Favorite Wedding Moments

The ceremony location at the Basin Harbor Club is just stunning. The beautiful weather, amazing flute and strings trio, and incredible surrounding gardens made the day.

The guests had bubbles to blow at us as we walked back down the aisle.

The Ben & Jerry’s ice cream wedding cake was great!

Click here for the full article with all the details about Leah and Greg's Love Story and wedding planning.

A Big Piece of Wedding Cake Yesterday and Today

2011-06-29T08:16:00.000-07:00

Photo [above] courtesy of New England Culinary Institute (NECI)

Modern day wedding cakes run the gamut of classic to comic

Swirls of piping, rich buttercream frosting, and fondant pearls dotted on a multitiered cake may be what we expect to see displayed at a wedding reception, but in day’s past, a loaf of bread and pile of biscuits sufficed for the celebratory sweet. (Click here to read more about the 1,000 year old traditions of this loaf and the full article by Karen Sturtevant)

Cake above (2) Sweet Crunch BakeShop and Catering Co

Cake above (3) Gourmet Provence

Bride's Pie

In medieval England, simple flour based unsweetened biscuits or scones (provided by guests) would be piled high––a prelude to today’s cake toppers. If the couple could kiss over the top, good luck, prosperity, happiness, and many children would follow (or so it was believed).

First appearing in the seventeenth century and lasting for the next 200 years was a common dish called the bride’s pie: a meat pie with sweet bread, mincemeat, or mutton with the secret ingredient being a glass ring.

Cake (4) above by Snaffle Sweets

Cake (5) by Delicate Decadence Cake Boutique

Plum Cakes

By the nineteenth century single tiered plum cakes gained popularity replacing the bride’s pie. Sugar coated with white icing, plum cakes were reserved only for the wealthy and graced the tables of the affluent symbolizing the family’s position in social circles. Before the Victorian era, ingredients were difficult, if not impossible to acquire for cake making, particularly those required for icing. White icing required the use of the finest refined sugar. The whiter the cake, the more affluent the family appeared. For the more modest, the bride’s pie remained a mainstay. The plum cake stayed the cake until the late nineteenth century when multitiered cakes began their rise in history.

British royalty were the first to introduce multitiered confections. Upper layers were made from spun sugar with pillars used for reinforcement. To prevent the pillars from sinking into the bottom tiers, the icing was hardened providing the necessary support. From the early twentieth century to modern times, wedding cakes have evolved into sumptuous confections while honoring representation and tradition.

Cake (6) Juniors Bakery

Cake (7) Bakearia

Click here for more about more recent cake traditions, including royal wedding cakes, and much more in the full article by Karen Sturtevant.

Fitness and Nutrition Tips for Preparing for the BIG DAY

2011-06-27T04:28:00.000-07:00

Your wedding day is when YOU are the center of attention, so of course you want to look like a knockout for your friends, family, and of course your groom.

1. Your physique is determined by three things: 10% exercise, 10% genetics, and 80% diet.

This might shock some readers because exercise is not a very big percentage. Of course it plays a big role in how you will look, however, if your diet is not the best then you will not have the best physique. If you want to look and feel better, pay attention to what you are putting into your mouth! I recommend lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables and lots of water. You also need to keep in mind your portion sizes and calorie intake. So make sure you are choosing nutrient dense foods.

2. Combine weights and cardio and keep your workouts interesting.

It depends on your body type to determine when you will see gains in muscle definition and a reduction of overall body fat. However, a fitness routine combined with a clean diet will help you reach your wedding day body easier.

I personally like shorter workouts, because with a very hectic schedule, not to mention the wedding planning, who has time for an hour and a half workout? (click here for more about exercise)

3. Get plenty of sleep and don’t stress (if possible).

According to WebMD.com, sleep affects certain hormones that will control your appetite and satiety. Studies show that people who get less than 8 hours of sleep have higher levels of body fat than people who get 8 or more hours of sleep a night. Stress increases levels of cortisol in your blood which is a hormone that tends to cause you carry extra body fat in your waist line area. You also have to be careful if you are an emotional eater. Make sure you have healthy coping mechanisms when dealing with your stress and get plenty of sleep.
Bottom line is this: Your wedding day is YOUR day. Try to enjoy every moment of it from the proposal and the planning all the way up to the honeymoon and most importantly the many years to follow spent with your lifetime partner.

Take care of yourself by eating right, getting exercise and a proper amount of sleep. When you are taking care of yourself and feeling good, everything else will fall into place.

Click here for the full article including information about author Toria Cornett's recent recognition award for her work as FoodScience Corporation's Wellness Program Director.

Putting a Personal Touch to Your Wedding Music

2011-06-18T01:49:00.001-07:00

Selecting Unique Music for Your Wedding

Whether you’re the tradition lover who must have the Mendelssohn Wedding March for your recessional, or whether you feel that you absolutely must make completely unique choices, your repertoire choices will color the mood of your day as much as your choice of gown, flowers, and location.

First, I’d like to state that the traditional pieces always feel fresh to me because they’re reflecting the new life that each couple brings to them. If you know and love these pieces, you might know right off that they will bring the ambiance you most want. But even some traditionalists may wish to include an especially personal musical choice somewhere in the day, and some couples may want to steer clear of traditional choices completely, and make only choices that truly reflect their preferences in a personal way. Here are thoughts and examples of some choices couples have made that have colored their wedding day in a unique and memorable way.

Click here for the full article by Lisa Carlson, including thoughts on unique processional choices, unique recessional choices, and ways of incorporating personal musical choices in other parts of your day.

Or click here for more information about Lisa Carlson's musical offerings.

Vermont Bride Magazine - Our Summer 2011 Issue

2011-06-16T01:21:00.000-07:00

Summer 2011 edition now available throughout Vermont!

Featuring photography and a complete vendor guide to help the bride-to-be and her friends and family to manage and organize a successful wedding.

See the Preview Page about the Summer 2011 issue

Or click here for a PDF version of the entire magazine!

Love Story: Jennifer (Hough) and Tony Duda

2011-06-14T09:48:00.000-07:00

...That afternoon, as we floated inside inner tubes together, he reached across to grasp my hand while I laughed. In that moment, we connected...
How they met:

We were two complete strangers; they were two determined match makers, when does that ever go right?
It was the first of July, and we all found ourselves at the Rusty Nail in downtown Stowe, VT. I was there with some friends, and had just received my drink when I saw them approach our table out of the corner of my eye.

They were arguing about Michael Moore’s newest film, they appeared to be a couple, and I had never seen them, when the female, blonde and about my age, turned to me and said, “What do you think, about the film?” Unbeknownst to me, they were scheming something, and I had just taken the bait. I engaged them in conversation, when a third party approached the table. They introduced him as Tony, he introduced himself as a tennis instructor. This was ironic and unfortunate for him, as I had already been approached by another such “tennis pro” that evening. Consequently, “Tony” did not find me too kind, nor did I find Tony too interesting.

What I did not realize was that Tony’s friends Jennifer and Kevin were on a mission and would stop at nothing. When Jennifer discovered I was a teacher, they knew they’d struck gold. Jennifer worked in the schools as well she said and we should get together. Could she have my phone number?
Four years later...

We parked and padded out on the sand, sandals in hand. We stopped to look at the sunset and Tony, standing behind me with his arms around my waist, said with emotion in his voice: “You know you’re my best friend.” When I turned to him, he went down on one knee… after we established we were now fiancés, we stopped a couple to take a photo; Tony had remembered the camera. When it was discovered our batteries were dead, the two demanded their teenaged daughter hand over hers from her camera. “They need them more,” her father said. We laugh about it still.
Click here for the rest of Jennifer and Tony's Love Story, including memorable moments from their wedding, planning tips, and more.

GO GREEN, and Save Green

2011-06-11T08:13:00.000-07:00

Can a “green” wedding save you some green? Absolutely. Environmentally conscious engaged couples sometimes miss the opportunity to bring their socially responsible awareness to their wedding. But when you consider that a green mindset can also save thousands of dollars, the incentives add up.

Marjorie and Matthew wanted an elegant destination wedding in Vermont for a guest list of one hundred. But they were also determined to keep their commitment to being earth friendly as a couple and bring those values to planning their wedding. They brought up the challenge with their wedding coach and officiant.

Rings? Rings, especially. Diamonds, gold, and platinum are notoriously unethically produced. Miners of these raw substances often work in unsafe conditions and mining itself can damage local ecosystems and watersheds, according to sustainable jewelers like Leber Jeweler, GreenKarat, and Sumiche. Add to that the fact that the diamond mining industry exploits child labor and you have one place to really make a statement. Contact those jewelers and explore it for yourselves. The other thing that some couples do is recycle old gold or silver jewelry from previous generations to make their own rings.

Marjorie and Matthew got inspired by the session. As they began to list the ways they actually could make a difference and save money, they got more excited about their wedding. Michelle Kozin’s book encouraged them even more: Organic Weddings: Balancing Ecology, Style, and Tradition (New Society Publishers, 2003). Kozin’s related website is www.OrganicWeddings.com.

Click here for more, including a summary of all the ways this couple planned their green wedding.

Click here for more information about wedding officiant and relationship coach Rev. Dr. Michael Caldwell.

Danielle (Waite) & Mead Sturgeon

2011-06-01T06:27:00.000-07:00

Although we’d had a few brief conversations while putting together puzzles and playing cards—that’s how we killed time in the waiting rooms — I didn’t get the nerve to ask her out on a date until a couple months had passed.

Her Story:

In August, I began an eight week clinical rotation in Tucson, Arizona. Although I wasn’t looking forward to the time apart, I had planned to fly to New Hampshire for our friends’ Meg and Josh’s wedding on September 12, right in the middle of the rotation.

Meg and Josh’s wedding was a blast…in fact, I may have had a bit of a headache the next morning. Mead went to get some water, and came back and knelt down next to me. My heart was pounding as instead of a glass of water, he came back with a small black box. He asked me to marry him, and (of course) I said yes! (And after spending two hours that morning trying to find someone to jump the car because I had left the lights on all night, he didn’t even ask for the ring back!)

His Story:

I asked…

Last summer Danielle and I embarked on a two week vacation across the country. She needed to go to Tucson, Arizonia for eight weeks for a clinical rotation and I, being a teacher, had the summer off and was willing to go for a drive! We made stops at Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches National Park, the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and finally Tucson.
After a couple of days of getting Danielle used to the city and the surrounding area, it was time for me to head back to Vermont. I already knew that I wanted to marry Danielle, and on my flight home I started to develop my plan.

In September, Danielle was flying home for our friends’ wedding…perfect! It took me some time to find the right ring for my girl, but finally I did. I wanted to do the right thing, so I made sure that I had the blessing of Danielle’s parents before I popped the big question (this is what I was most nervous about). It was the morning after our friends’ wedding and she asked me to get her a glass of water. I came back with the water and the ring. Down on one knee, I asked her to spend the rest of her life with me. Thankfully…she said yes!

Click here for the rest of Danielle and Mead's Love Story...
Click here for more about the photographer, Raiden Shine Photography...

Wedding Beauty and Wellness

2011-05-19T15:00:00.000-07:00

Online Categories for wedding resources from Vermont Bride Magazine

Wedding and Bridal Attire

2011-05-16T05:46:00.000-07:00

Photo by Orah Moore Photography

Online Categories for wedding resources from Vermont Bride Magazine

Wedding Attire

2011-05-12T03:02:00.000-07:00

Cover bride is Jeanna (Bowen) Brochu. Photograph by Around The Bend Photography.

Spring issue LOVE STORIES:

Cover Love Story: Jeanna (Bowen) & Jamie Brochu
Our Love Story: Danielle (Waite) & Mead Sturgeon
Our Love Story: Sara (Forest) and Paul Sokolowski

28 Feature Articles and Regular Items in the Spring 2011 Issue!

Get Ready, Get Set, Lose the Weight the Healthy, Fun, and Simple Way By Megan Daigle
Weight Loss Contest — from Simplify Your Health Now
Lose Weight Before Your Wedding Day By Megan Daigle
Elements of a Perfect Wedding From Five Elements Salon & Day Spa
Your Wedding Your Way: Go Green, and Save Green By Dr. Rev. Michael Caldwell
The Informed Traveler Special Places and Best Times to Go By Carrie McDougall
There is Nothing Quite as Special as a Wedding Under A Tent
From Celebration Rentals
A Stress Free VIsit to the Salon By Kim Scofield
The New White: The Green Wedding By Karen Sturtevant
Spotlight on Wedding Flowers: Gerbera Daisy By Karen Sturtevant
From One Spring Bride to Another By Susanna Keefer
The FIT SPOT: Fitness and Nutrition Tips for Preparing for the BIG DAY By Toria Cornett
Music for Your Wedding: Selecting Unique Music for Your Wedding By Lisa Carlson
Choosing A Wedding Photographer By Joe & Linda Crosby
Bachelors and Bachelorette Parties: Making them Memorable By Pat Esden
Cleaning Your Financial House By Benjamin Nostrand
We’re Ready to Look at Homes! By Gayle Oberg
Your Jewish Wedding By Rabbi Howard A. Cohen
Fine Pewter: Handcrafted in Vermont
Spa Corner: Relax, Renew and Restore Before Your Wedding By Sara Daly
Ceremony Sound Tips for Brides By Grant Allendorf
2011 Tax Law Changes Passed at the Last Minute! (and what this means for couples) By Roger A. Schoenbeck
Technology from a young love perspective By Kayla Sturtevant
Inside Vermont Bride Staff Notes
Vermont Bride Photographers Showcase
Bridal Resource Guide Spring 2011
Accommodations Chart

See our gallery of of past issues

Moms

2011-05-09T04:53:00.000-07:00

The Royal Wedding

2011-05-01T05:09:00.000-07:00

At Vermont Bride Magazine, every wedding is a royal wedding! Here are the official Royal Wedding Pictures, released yesterday. Which is your favorite?

Love Stories From the Past

2011-05-01T04:42:00.000-07:00

You can find love stories from previous Vermont Bride Magazines, many including slide shows of the weddings, by clicking here.

Here's an excerpt from Alison C. (Ackerknecht) & Gregory M. James' wedding (Alison is the cover bride above from Spring 2007):

How we got engaged

To celebrate our four-year anniversary, we decided to go camping on Kerr Lake in North Carolina, not far from where we currently live. After swimming all day and eating an amazing dinner we had cooked on the grill, we sat down to enjoy Saturday night. Sitting by our campfire, with the lake in the background, the only sounds we could hear were the lapping of the waves on the shore and the crackling of the fire. Greg popped a bottle of champagne, and we toasted our four years together. As I settled back to enjoy my first sip, I saw Greg's hand reach into his pocket, and it was at that moment my jaw dropped open, and I said, "Oh my God"...at least three times. Greg got down on one knee in front of the fire, and after saying some amazingly sweet things, he asked me to be his bride. Several (shocked) seconds later, I said "yes." We spent the night talking about the rest of our lives together as the fire slowly turned to embers.

Click here to read the rest of Alison and Gregory's love story.

And below are some other links to love stories from previous Vermont Bride Magazines:

2007 Winter Issue | Michelle (Graci) & Jay Glazer

2006 Spring Issue | Kami (Allen) & Gabriel Farr

2006 Winter Issue | Kristin & Brian McCarthy

2006 Fall Issue | Deanna M. (White) & Jeffrey T. Wood

2006 Summer Issue | Jessica & Jesse Remmey

2005 Summer Issue| Bonnie & Randy Cutter

2005 Fall Issue | Jennifer & Armand Guillette

Traditions – Tasteful or Tacky?

2011-04-27T04:44:00.000-07:00

Sure, there are times when the stunned woman who catches the bouquet has been summoned to the dance floor by the droning dj to perform the whole garter stunt and ended up falling madly in love with the young man who caught the garter. In this particular instance, they remain happily married with two beautiful children. You just never know!

However, now that you are planning your own wedding it is for you to decide if those customary acts will be part of your celebration. Are there other customs or traditions you will use to signify your own union and celebration. Will these customs carry on in your family or have they already?

Some of the traditions listed below have been handed down through the years from culture to culture. Some are pure folklore and many stem from superstitions. Certain traditions are widely used in modern wedding ceremonies while others exist only within a certain race or culture.

While I hope you enjoy the following legends and lore, when planning your wedding I encourage you to do things your way. There are no rules, no ways that must be followed because Aunt Nellie says it must be. When it comes to your celebration – make it just that, your own. Add your own personalized flare that will make lasting traditions for your family for years to follow.

Customs and tradition should be binding, in a loving family way.

The wedding is one of life’s primeval and surprisingly unchanged rites of passage. There are so many different customs, superstitions and cultural beliefs that have carried on through the ages.

Click here for the rest of this article by Lauri Boyden, including segments about: The Engagement Ring, Choosing a wedding day, Bridal Showers, Throwing the Garter, Tossing the Bouquet, and more...

The Royal Wedding Event at Waterfalls Day Spa Royal Wedding Event at Waterfalls Day Spa

2011-04-22T05:28:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars for April 29th, 2011 for our day long event as we will be celebrating The British Royal Wedding at the Waterfalls Day Spa!

Complimentary champagne with our Royal Mini Spa Treatment!

$20 this day only!

This treatment is our Red Flower Foot Ritual: your feet will be pampered with hot towels, washed with our Red Flower Body Wash, and massaged with organic botanicals leaving you with fresh rejuvenated feet.

Mini Treatments are available from 9-10 am, and from 3-5 pm. Bass Ale will be the complimentary drink option at the pub hours of 3-5pm.

Free Giveaways from these local businesses: Waterfalls Day Spa, The Little Pressroom, The Vermont Book Shop, The Blossom Basket, Cacklin' Hens, Ski Haus, Middlebury Sweets, Courtyard by Marriott, and Clementine, and Noonies Deli!

Enter to Win The Royal Treatment! $299 Value

Treat your Mom to the Royal Treatment this Mother's Day with a spa package fit for a queen! This full day spa package includes: Full Body Exfoliation and Massage Combo, Spa Pedicure, Spa Manicure, and Stress Detox Facial, followed by English Tea. This total spa package is approx 4.5 hours long.

Click here for more info...

We Want You!

2011-04-15T15:37:00.000-07:00

Share your Engagement and Wedding online!

Come online with the celebration of your engagement and wedding events! Vermont Bride Magazine wants to show your photos online. Vermont Bride Magazine has an extensive online web presence along active accounts at Facebook, Twitter and Blogspot. Write and upload your information using our online share page form.

Spring 2011 Issue Vermont Bride

2011-04-12T04:40:00.000-07:00

Click here for your free issue of Vermont Bride Magazine's Spring Edition!

Follow Us on Facebook or Twitter!

2011-04-09T03:28:00.000-07:00

Did you know that you can follow us on Twitter or like us on Facebook?

Click on either picture or on the text links to go directly to our social networking pages!

Memories of a Perfect Day ...at the Ye Olde England Inne

2011-04-05T03:15:00.000-07:00

We briefly considered some Caribbean resorts with their various packages until close friends suggested Vermont.

They had attended a wedding in Stowe several years earlier and were impressed with the beauty and quality of their entire experience. They commented in particular about the impressive and genuine friendliness of everyone they encountered in the mountains.

We wanted a perfect experience but our expectations were exceeded. It does not get better than that.
Click here to read more about this couple's wedding experience at Ye Olde England Inne...

Amelia (Gilman) & Brett Clairmont

2011-03-29T07:52:00.000-07:00

How we met

If you had asked me if I knew right away that Brett was going to be my husband, I would have said no. He wasn’t my type: tall, blonde hair, blue eyes. Brett was average height, light brown hair, and hazel eyes. My brother-in-law, Mark, spent 15 minutes trying to locate him because he was so adamant that I meet this guy.

We met, shook hands, exchanged small talk, and I walked away.
Where I met Brett isn’t your usual meeting place for a social introduction. I met Brett at Camp Johnson where he was going through pre-mobilization for his deployment with Mark to Iraq...

In the next month that followed, my brother-in-law spoke to me about Brett and had asked me to send him some type of care package. His excuse was that he felt bad for the guy, and that he only got mail from his mother. I explained to Mark that I would do it, but was doing it to be friendly and supportive for one of his friends. Mark said it was just a morale booster and would brighten Brett’s day. It just so happened to be February when I put together a care package. I made some brownies, put in some gourmet cookies, found a couple guy magazines and sent them to Brett.

By the time I had gotten all of this ready for Brett, I had received an e-mail from him. My brother-in-law had given him my e-mail address. The link between Brett and I was Mark. He was determined to get us talking. I e-mailed back, small chat, but it was good small chat. It sparked my interest.

Then something happened that changed both of our lives. We lost a good friend to both of us, in combat in Iraq, 1st Lt. Mark Dooley... Click here to read the full story...

Spring 2011 Issue Vermont Bride

2011-03-26T14:30:00.000-07:00

Brand new Spring Issue of Vermont Bride Magazine is just around the corner!

Cover bride is Jeanna (Bowen) Brochu. Photograph by Around The Bend Photography.

Includes three Love Stories plus:

28 Feature Articles and Regular Items in the Spring 2011 Issue!

Get Ready, Get Set, Lose the Weight the Healthy, Fun, and Simple Way By Megan Daigle
Weight Loss Contest — from Simplify Your Health Now
Lose Weight Before Your Wedding Day By Megan Daigle
Elements of a Perfect Wedding From Five Elements Salon & Day Spa
Your Wedding Your Way: Go Green, and Save Green By Dr. Rev. Michael Caldwell
The Informed Traveler Special Places and Best Times to Go By Carrie McDougall
There is Nothing Quite as Special as a Wedding Under A Tent
From Celebration Rentals
A Stress Free VIsit to the Salon By Kim Scofield
The New White: The Green Wedding By Karen Sturtevant
Spotlight on Wedding Flowers: Gerbera Daisy By Karen Sturtevant
From One Spring Bride to Another By Susanna Keefer
The FIT SPOT: Fitness and Nutrition Tips for Preparing for the BIG DAY By Toria Cornett
Music for Your Wedding: Selecting Unique Music for Your Wedding By Lisa Carlson
Choosing A Wedding Photographer By Joe & Linda Crosby
Bachelors and Bachelorette Parties: Making them Memorable By Pat Esden
Cleaning Your Financial House By Benjamin Nostrand
We’re Ready to Look at Homes! By Gayle Oberg
Your Jewish Wedding By Rabbi Howard A. Cohen
Fine Pewter: Handcrafted in Vermont
Spa Corner: Relax, Renew and Restore Before Your Wedding By Sara Daly
Ceremony Sound Tips for Brides By Grant Allendorf
2011 Tax Law Changes Passed at the Last Minute! (and what this means for couples) By Roger A. Schoenbeck
Technology from a young love perspective By Kayla Sturtevant
Inside Vermont Bride Staff Notes
Vermont Bride Photographers Showcase
Bridal Resource Guide Spring 2011
Accommodations Chart

See our gallery of of past issues- click here!

Aromatherapy

2011-03-22T03:35:00.000-07:00

By Karen Sturtevant

We hardly notice the smells of an ordinary day as we work at our many roles. It’s when an out of the ordinary scent assaults our limbic system do we consciously become aware that something is different.

Walking in the bakery on a Sunday morning, we suddenly have a craving for those sinful scrumptious cinnamon buns. Guests may not remember that your living room was a mess when they arrived unannounced, but they will remember the smell of the chocolate chunk cookings baking.

The science of scent is an idea that is catching on.

Ylang ylang brings out sensual, romantic, alluring and amorous feelings.

For the honeymoon, pack oils of ylang ylang, rose absolute, jasmine or patchouli for passion and romance. Relax with sandalwood, frankincense, and myrrh and purify with tea tree and eucalyptus.

Experiment with different oils to find your favorites to help bring you to a more peaceful, relaxed state or to a more alert and energized state of mind. Oils can beautify your days and promote well-being and joy. Every facet of life can be enchanted with nature’s gift of essential oils. We all can use a little help now and then.

Click here for Karen Sturtevant's full article and more tips on using scents to enrich your life, your wedding planning, and your marriage...

Music For Your Wedding

2011-03-19T11:34:00.000-07:00

by Lisa Carlson

Flash forward in time. It’s your 10th, 25th, or maybe 50th anniversary and you’re looking back on your wedding day. You chuckle together about the flower girl who unexpectedly stopped half way down the aisle, mesmerized by all the people, and the sweet if slightly embarrassing words shared about you by your minister or rabbi or officiant. You look at the lilacs growing outside the window of your home, smell the scent, and revel in the same soft purple grace you enjoyed at your wedding. When you hum your special song, or play the recording on the stereo, and dance through the halls of your home, your breath catches as you remember the moment of your walk down the aisle, the moment the musicians played your special song in the middle of the ceremony, or your first dance together as a married couple, and the music that filled the room on that day.
Music can be one of the most significant factors which will establish the ambiance, and color the memories, of your wedding day. With so many options available to today’s couples, where do you start in making music choices that will resonate for both of you – and leave memories that will still catch your breath on your 50th anniversary?

First, talk with your partner about what you like in music. Do you dream of a quartet serenading you down the aisle with your favorite classical music standards, or would you prefer a soloist or a duo with a Celtic lilt? Or perhaps you want to steer clear of traditional choices and pick some favorite pop or Broadway tunes. Do you have a special song already that you’d like to include in the ceremony? Or would you like to choose a special tune together that will become “your song?” What sort of musician would be best suited to play that tune? Do you have an ensemble in mind, or will you be finding a soloist or group of musicians that will play the repertoire you have in mind? Do you have any special memories of playing or hearing music in the past in a way that really influenced you? And what can you afford for music? The greater the number of musicians, the greater the price – so you’ll need to keep that in mind when choosing between a soloist, a duo, a quartet, or a full band. These are all important questions to explore together before you get too far in the planning!

Click here to read more...

Or click here for more about the author, flutist Lisa Carlson...

Love Story: Jaimie (Demars) & Richard Welcome

2011-03-16T15:24:00.000-07:00

How we met

Rick and I were high school sweethearts. We met through mutual friends; we each went off to college but saw each other every weekend. Summers were great, since we got to see each other all the time. We began to talk about our future together and the direction in which we were headed. Rick makes me laugh and is the guy who doesn’t need to ever make a plan. I, on the other hand, am the organized planner!

Our engagement

We had decided to stay in Lamoille County and to build a home there. Rick and I looked at several pieces of land before settling on the perfect one for us. I continued to tell Rick that I wasn’t comfortable purchasing property with a “boyfriend.” He would shrug and agree. One week prior to purchasing the land and with me continuing to say I didn’t want to buy it with a “boyfriend,” Rick brought me up to the land to meet the realtor; we got there and no one was there.Rick suggested we walk out on the property and wait, which is what we did. We walked out to where we had planned on building our home and Rick got down on one knee and proposed. The realtor never did show up that evening! We then went to tell our parents and off to a romantic dinner that Rick had planned.
Rick and I were married on a perfect fall day in September at Harwood Ranch, my grandparents’ property in Elmore, Vermont, surrounded by our loving family and friends. Everything was picture-perfect.

Click here to read more of Jaime and Richard's love story...

Planning your Dream Wedding in Vermont

2011-03-14T18:09:00.000-07:00

The first thing to do when planning an indoor or outdoor wedding is to let your imagination take over. What is the overall feel that you would like the event to have? Look through magazines, peruse websites, and think back to your dreams of your wedding as a child. Do you like soft romantic images or is your vision of an elegant country wedding?

Along with the anticipation of marrying your perfect mate, you are about to plan the biggest party of your life. While you are thinking about colors and bridesmaids and the scrumptious wedding cake, someone needs to ponder logistics, guest counts, a rain plan and square footage to make your event go off with out a glitch.

Click here to read the full article...

Or read more about this article's authors at Weddings Tents & Events

Spotlight on Wedding Flowers: Gardenia

2011-03-09T09:22:00.000-08:00

by Karen Sturtevant

Meanings: Purity, Sweetness, Secret Love, Joy, You are Lovely.

Uses: Boutonnieres, (in France, it’s customary for the groom to wear a gardenia as his boutonniere), corsages, bouquets, cake decoration, hair accents, sewn/pinned on veil.

Gardenias are available year round. Quantities are limited in winter as the time period for blooming is 30 days or longer December - March. To ensure availability, order well in advance as gardenias are widely sought after wedding flowers.

Click here for the full article, including much helpful information about using gardenias for your wedding...

Or:

See the other Spotlight On Wedding Flowers articles by Karen Sturtevant online:

Spotlight on Roses

Spotlight on Stephanotis

Food, Glorious Fall Food!

2011-03-07T04:46:00.000-08:00

Planning an Autumn wedding in Vermont?
Here's some food for thought from Susanna Keefer!

When you know where your food is coming from and how it is grown, you are enhancing a bond with your surroundings, your bodies, and ultimately with each other. You are also supporting the small farms and farmers who are preserving the natural and sustainable beauty which we proudly call Vermont. Furthermore, what could possibly taste better than local seasonal food?

Planning a fall wedding menu should be a collaboration between the couple and the caterer. Vermont boasts an incredible array of passionate and talented chefs who can customize a menu that reflects your tastes, honors your heritage and your family traditions. Most importantly this will represent and celebrate who you have become as a couple.

Click here for tips on glorious food ideas for a Vermont wedding in the fall...

Double Duty Gifts for Bridesmaids

2011-03-02T08:16:00.000-08:00

by Pat Esden

A fun way for a bride to purchase gifts that will please her attendants is to choose items that can be used on the wedding day and enjoyed afterwards as well. Necklaces and earrings that match the attendants’ gowns are a traditional gift that fills this niche, but nowadays brides often go one step further by buying jewelry that can be used to decorate the stems of the attendants’ bouquets as well as serve for gifts afterward. Glamorous pins are ideal for this and easy for a florist to clip to the bouquets’ satin wraps. Pins aren’t the only item that can be used on bouquets.

Glittery key rings with fobs in the shape of the bridesmaids’ initials work wonderfully—and the letters will help distinguish which bouquet belongs to which attendant. Small engraved lockets or charms can also be used. And don’t forget jewels for the attendants’ hair. Rhinestone hairpins or decorative clips add sparkle to the wedding day and will be cherished forever.

Click here to read the rest of this article about double duty gifts for bridesmaids by Pat Esden, master floral designer of Esden Florists.

Pieces of the Planning Puzzle

2011-02-22T03:14:00.000-08:00

by Lauri Boyden

You have announced to family and friends that you are engaged! Everyone is excited for you both and has so much information to share with you about planning your wedding.

Don’t get married in June – there are too many black flies; August are the dog days of summer – much too hot; we are planning a trip for October say your parents; wouldn’t a lovely day in July be nice? But I think your cousin was thinking of July, perhaps May, dear. Be sure to spend time with just the two of you to make the plans that mean the most to you both. You can take all of those family and friends ideas into consideration; perhaps they have some fairly good thoughts or perhaps they blend nicely with your own.

Most of us have had a vision of our wedding day since we were five and chasing after the little boy next door or since we attended or were in a wedding where we either saw things we loved or vowed never to have at our own wedding!

However you view your wedding day, begin your planning together with thoughts of you and your family and guests. Do you have a large family filled with nieces and nephews? Have you worked in the same job for many years and want to invite most of the firm?

The main basis of your guest list will aid you in your first step – choosing a location for your wedding ceremony and reception.

Ask yourself – will there be many children present, will they be at the ceremony as well as the reception, will they stay for the meal, are their parents a part of the bridal party, etc. With a broad view of your guest list, you should easily be able to envision your celebration in the locations you visit, the menus you look at, and the general flow of your event. Yes, you are planning an event – the biggest one in your life, for the moment!

Click here to read more about "Pieces of the Planning Puzzle"...

Lauri Boyden is the owner and event coordinator for the Barn at Boyden Farm; Cambridge, VT.

“Parents in the Planning”

2011-02-18T21:24:00.000-08:00

by Michael Caldwell, Partnership Center of Vermont

Tom and Carolyn’s parents fit the bill for “best in the universe” – until the engagement. They’d dated for years. They knew and liked each other’s parents. And both sets of parents seemed to genuinely like the fact that they were together. So they felt blind-sided by the difficulties after they announced their engagement.

Carolyn’s dad was a great guy in a lot of ways, and extended himself to Tom in a way that made him feel included in the family. But Carolyn was his only daughter. He wanted to walk her down the aisle and “give her away” in the traditional way at the wedding, which is when tensions surfaced.

In college, Carolyn’s consciousness was unalterably raised by feminist teachers. She loved her father. But she saw the traditional beginning to a wedding as tied to a time when women were property to be transferred. She knew her father didn’t see her as property, but she thought the ritual was archaic. In consultation with Tom and the wedding coach, the decision was made to walk the processional together as a couple, with the wedding party preceding them – mirroring the recessional. It was different, and they liked the difference it made, and the independence it implied.

When Carolyn’s dad balked, they talked to the wedding coach. He suggested a new custom, now seen in many contemporary ceremonies, to be intentionally inclusive of all the parents. After the declaration of intent and before the vows would come “Pledges of Support.” In this moment, the officiant asks a question.

“Will the parents of the bride and groom please stand… Will you give your love, support, encouragement, and blessing to them as they are married today? If so, please say “we will.” “We will!”

Tom was especially interested in this variation because it meant his parents could participate as well in such an affirmation. It also meant, since his parents were both divorced and remarried, that his step-parents could be included as well.

Click here to read further about the relationship coach's suggestions, and Tom and Carolyn's handling of the question and how it impacted their future together...

Princess Victoria and Prince Frederick's 1858 Wedding Pictures

2011-02-15T05:42:00.000-08:00

The winter edition of Vermont Bride Magazine, currently available free of charge throughout Vermont, features Lisa Carlson's article "Mendelssohn's Wedding March: A Brief History." Here are a few pictures of the 1858 wedding of Princess Victoria and Prince Frederick, the wedding which set the long standing precedent of using Mendelssohn's "Wedding March" as a their recessional. These pictures have been provided courtesy of Angel B, who maintains a web site at www.avictorian.com, having spent years collecting pictures from this era - do check out Angel's web site for additional pictures!

Fall Issue 2010 Now Online

2011-02-10T18:10:00.000-08:00

FREE ONLINE: You can read articles from the Vermont Bride Fall 2010 issue now online.

Or download the entire magazine in PDF format (18.7 MB).

Download only the Bridal Resource Guide section (PDF 2.3 MB)

116 pages; 33 articles; 250+ vendor listings

Reviving Old Traditions for Festive Modern Day Celebrations

2011-02-09T01:18:00.000-08:00

by Amanda Kuhnert

There are some traditions, like exchanging rings and throwing the bridal bouquet, that remain central to the wedding ceremony.

But there are other customs that have been tossed to the wayside by a generation or two of brides and grooms.
Make your 21st century celebration stand out from the crowd by incorporating these ancient traditions into your wedding plans:

Make it a full moon – in June!

There is an old belief that getting married on the day of a full moon will bring you good luck − and hopefully, aid in conception efforts. And, historically, June was a particularly good month to “tie the knot,” as a fall pregnancy and spring birth wouldn’t interfere with the bride’s ability to assist with the harvest. Also, a bright, sunny wedding day was said to bring good fortune to the couple, while a rainy day guaranteed a short, rather unsatisfactory marriage. Although June continues to be a popular month for weddings, it’s probably safe to say that the reasons have changed.

Click here for more ideas for reviving old traditions, including: Have fun with superstitions, Carry a bride’s handkerchief, Wear a veil, Tie shoes (and cans) to “the getaway car”, Wear two garters − one to keep and one to toss, and Carry her over the threshold...

Or Click here for more information about Amanda Kuhnhert and Fourfold Legacy Services, preserving memories of Vermont's wedding couples.

Lisa & Eric's Love Story

2011-02-01T17:15:00.000-08:00

Lisa (Weiner) & Eric Larner, September 7th 2008, at the Equinox Resort & Spa, Manchester Village, VT

Photographs by Polis Photography

How We Met:

Our love story begins a very long time ago. We were both at college at the University of Hartford. He was a senior on his way out of school, and I was a freshman just beginning my college experience. We met and new right from the beginning that we had a connection with one another. We started spending time with each other and a wonderful bond started to form. It was hard knowing that he was going to be leaving school to start his life, just as I had started my college years.

Inevitably, his graduation day came, and we were no longer just a short walk away from each other on campus. We did the long distance relationship for a while, but as time went on our calls got fewer and fewer, and so did our visits with each other. The funny thing is, we never broke up, we just allowed our relationship to fade away. Even with out him in my life, I would always think about him and wonder how he was. I never reached out to him because I was always too afraid to call, for so much time had passed between us.

About a year and a half later I finally decided to contact him through the mail. Much to my surprise, and excitement, he called me. That first call was amazing. We were so happy to hear each others voices and the conversation flowed like it had never been interrupted.

Click here to read the rest of Lisa and Eric's Love Story...

A Weight Loss Challenge – The Vermont Bride Edition

2011-01-27T02:31:00.000-08:00

Rebekah and Brady's Love Story

2011-01-24T17:16:00.000-08:00

May 15, 2009 at the beautiful Sunset Ballroom in South Burlington, VT

How We Met
Even though Brady and I both attended the same youth group every Sunday night, we didn’t notice each other until two years later! One night at a youth retreat Brady approached me and introduced himself – from then on we were best friends. Throughout high school we were inseparable. I attended every one of his basketball games at Burlington High School and even though we both knew how we felt about the other, we didn’t want to pursue those feelings until we knew it was God’s timing.
Entering into Brady’s senior year we began to date one evening after we prayed together and felt the timing couldn’t be better. The following year Brady went off to college in TN where both our worlds felt like they were falling apart, yet we held true to the promise of God. We toughed it out and although it was the hardest time of our lives, God remained faithful. To this day Brady recalls that one night at the youth retreat when he approached me and telling God “One day I will marry that girl.”

OUR ENGAGEMENT:

December 14th, 2008 will always be engraved in my memory as one of the happiest days of our lives. Brady was coming home for Christmas break and to me it was just another short vacation. I’d have to soak up as much of him as possible; to him it was the first day of the rest of our lives together. Brady and his parents, William and Mia Callahan, were planning to take us to see my favorite basketball team, the Boston Celtics, later that evening. Brady thought it would be the perfect opportunity to sweep me off my feet!

I told him to come over that morning and I could cook him breakfast so that we were fed and ready to go to the game. When he arrived at my parents, Bernard and Kimberly Valley’s house, he was acting a bit strange. I ignored the thought and continued making pancakes, scrambled eggs, and toast. After breakfast we were getting ready to leave when he sat me down on my bed and got down on one knee. He then said, “Rebekah, you are my best friend and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Bek, will you marry me?” To this day Brady claims I just stared at him for five minutes in shock, but I remember looking into his eyes and saying “YES!”

He then said, “Rebekah, you are my best friend and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Bek, will you marry me?”

Click here to read more of Rebekah and Brady's love story, memorable wedding details, planning advice, and other wedding details...

Vermont Bride Magazine Winter Edition Now Available at News Stands Throughout Vermont!

2011-01-21T04:23:00.000-08:00

Cover photo by Whipple Photography

Maryanne (Azur) & Adam Routhier - Winter, 2011 Cover Bride Love Story
July 18, 2009 at the Stowe Mountain Resort, (Spruce Peak Base Lodge) Stowe, VT

Winter issue LOVE STORIES:

Jennifer (Hough) & Tony Duda (at Edson Hill Manor, Stowe, VT)
Maryanne (Azur) & Adam Routhier (at The Stowe Mountain Resort, Stowe, VT)
Ariana (Giust) & Jamie Fallon (at The Spirit of Ethan Allen III, Burlington, VT)

26 Feature Articles in the Winter 2011 Issue!

Northern Vermont Oral & Facial Surgery: Offers a wide range of full-body aesthetic procesdures
Your Wedding Story — Remembered By Amanda Kuhnert
Make-up Tips for Perfect Photos By Kim Scofield
Vermont Engagement Erica Marie Twenge & Aubrey Rex Augustus Gates
Importance and Uses of an Engagement Shoot By Linda Russell & Joe Crosby
Getting into the Wedding Spirit By Rachel Connor & Tiffany Suitter
Bridal Show Tips; How to Avoid Stress & Have Fun By Pat Esden
Spotlight on Wedding Flowers: Calla Lily By Karen Sturtevant
Your Wedding Your Way: Ceremonies: Secular and Sacred By Dr. Rev. Michael Caldwell
From Grand & Glamorous to Intimate & Cozy, Indulging in the Magic of a VT Winter Wedding By Susanna Keefer
How to Choose a DJ By Grant Allendorf
Stress-Free Thank You Notes - Ten Tips for Minimizing Angst & Getting Them Done By Kristin Anderson
Vermont Engagement Rebecca Provost and Jeremy Goulet
Mendelssohn’s Wedding March: A Brief History By Lisa Carlson
Safeguarding Your Life Together By Patrick Cahoon
1st Annual VT Bride Gala held at The Barn at Boyden Farm a Great Success! By Lauri Boyden & Karen Sturtevant
VT Bride Gala Recap By Susan Lackey
A Clever & Beautiful Wedding by the DIY Bride at Ye Olde England Inne By Chris Francis
Nuptials and Nest Eggs By Benjamin Nostrand
The American Dream is More Affordable Than Ever By Jeff Teplitz
Focusing on the Details: Factors of Home Buying By Gayle Oberg
Love, Commitment, and Blue Sneakers By Karen Sturtevant
Your Jewish Wedding By Rabbi Howard A. Cohen
Spa Corner: A Champagne Toast to Beautiful Nails By Sara Daly
Marriage Does not Have to be a Taxing Time! By Roger A. Schoenbeck
Dream Team from a young love perspective By Kayla Sturtevant

See our gallery of of past issues

Highlights of 2010

2011-01-17T05:31:00.001-08:00

What is LOVE?

Here are some of our favorite answers from the young and not-so young.

What’s your Answer?

• “All you really need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt. ”

Charles Schulz

• “A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. ”

Mignon McLaughlin

• “With our love, we could save the world. ”

George Harrison

• “A loving heart is the truest wisdom. ”

Charles Dickens

• “There is no greater happiness for a man than approaching a door

at the end of a day knowing someone on the other side of that

door is waiting for the sound of his footsteps.”

Ronald Reagan

• “We can only learn to love by loving. ”

Iris Murdoch

• “Where there is love there is life. ”

Mahatma Gandhi

• “ You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality

is finally better than your dreams. ”

Dr. Suess

• “Love is what makes you smile when you’re tired.”

Terri, age 4

• “Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving

cologne and they go out and smell each other.”

Karl, age 5

• “Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it everyday.”

Noelle, age 7

• “I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old

clothes and has to go out and buy new ones.”

Lauren, age 4

• “When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and

little stars come out of you.”

Karen, age 7

• “Once I’m done with kindergarten, I’m going to find me a wife.”

Tom, age 5

• “No one is sure why love happens, but I heard it has something to

do with how you smell. That’s why perfume and deodorant are so popular.”

Jan , age 9

• “If you want to be loved by somebody who isn’t already in your

family, it doesn’t hurt to be beautiful.”

Jeanne, age 8

• “You learn it (to kiss) right on the spot when

the gooshy feelings get the best of you.” ,

Doug age 7

Highlights of 2010: A Summary of the Most Helpful Information for Planning in 2011! Hair, Make Up and the Gown!

2011-01-14T16:34:00.000-08:00

Click the links below to read thoughts about planning your hair, make-up and gown.

Hair and Make-up:

The Long and Short to Amazing Bridal Hair By Sara Daly

What's your style? What's realistic for YOUR hair?
Sara Daly writes a regular "Spa Corner" article for Vermont Bride Magazine. You can check out her other articles at www.vermontbridemagazine.com.

Up do Down do... What will YOU do? by Drew Whitney

Check out other articles by Drew Whitney at www.vermontbridemagazine.com.

Two Ways to Perfect Bridal Makeup by Sara Daly (Please note that you'll need to scroll to p. 65 for this article).

And the Gown:

Avoid Bridal Gown Hell: True Stories and Tips by Pat Esden

"Running full tilt with the heavy dress draped over her shoulder, Bride X got back to the shop just as the owner was locking the door. As it turned out the skirt of the two-piece gown was hers, but, because of a mistake in alphabetizing, the top belonged to a different bride’s gown." True stories and tips on how to avoid them!

Pat Esden writes regularly for Vermont Bride Magazine and can also be found through the Esden Florist page at Vermont Bride's web site.

Highlights of 2010: A Summary of the Most Helpful Information for Planning in 2011! Music and Flowers

2011-01-08T11:40:00.001-08:00

Click on the links below to read articles on planning music and flowers for your wedding day.

Music

Selecting Your Wedding Music By Lisa Carlson

Are you a lover of traditional wedding music selections or do you wish for unique and personal choices? Here are some ideas for choosing your repertoire. Lisa Carlson writes regularly for Vermont Bride Magazine. Click here for Lisa's Vermont Bride web page.

This photo by Orah Moore.

Flowers

Your Floral Style: What are your preferences? By Karen Sturtevant

Check out Karen's other fine and helpful articles regarding many angles on the wedding planning process at www.vermontbridemagazine.com.

Stay tuned. More highlights from 2010 for planning in 2011 yet to come!

Highlights of 2010: A Summary of the Most Helpful Information for Planning in 2011! Invitations, Photographers and Food

2011-01-06T05:07:00.000-08:00

Click on the links below to read helpful articles for each category. Please note that some articles require scrolling down to the page noted.

Invitations:

(After clicking please scroll to page 50) Wedding Invitations By Karen Sturtevant

Karen Sturtevant writes regularly for Vermont Bride Magazine. Many of her articles are helpful for your planning needs - pick up a free magazine or check out more of her articles posted online at www.vermontbridemagazine.com.

Photographers:

Photographer Showcase

Check out samples from a large number of photographers around the state and see which fits your style best!

Food

(Scroll to page 46) Finding a Caterer to Match Your Style By Drew G. Whitney

Drew has written numerous helpful articles on a variety of topics, from cakes to gowns. Check out other articles by Drew at www.vermontbridemagazine.com.

And Now For the Cake! by Drew G. Whitney

Stay tuned! We'll be continuing highlights of 2010 for planning in 2011 with articles on: Music, Flowers, Hairstyles and more!

Highlights of 2010: A Summary of the Most Helpful Information for Planning in 2011!

2011-01-02T05:51:00.000-08:00

(Please note that two titles below link to the full magazine and require scrolling down to the page noted, but most link to the article directly).

Location:

(Scroll to page 90 - or 46 of the 2 page spread - of the summer magazine) Accommodations at a Glance
This convenient chart shows all the information you'll need to choose your ceremony and/or reception venue. A quick scan will answer all your questions about which location will serve your needs.

(Scroll to page 26 - 14 for 2 page spread - of the winter magazine): Stowe: A Winter Wedding Wonderland By Christopher Francis

Questions of Faith and Relationship:

How To Find A Rabbi By Howard Cohen
Howard Cohen writes regularly for Vermont Bride Magazine. His quarterly articles guide you through the process of planning a Jewish wedding. Click here for his Vermont Bride web page.

Your Wedding Your Way:
Listening to Learn, Learning to Listen by Michael Caldwell
Michael Caldwell writes quarterly articles for Vermont Bride Magazine about officiating and relationship coaching. Click here for his Vermont Bride web page.

And helpful advice for all your general planning needs:

Getting Ready: The Legal Details for a Vermont Wedding

Best Plans + Imperfections = Perfection! By Lauri Boyden
Lauri Boyden writes regularly for Vermont Bride Magazine about wedding planning details. Click here for Vermont Bride's Boyden Farm page.

Eco-Friendly Weddings: Going Green in 2010 By Karen Sturtevant
You can find more articles by Karen Sturtevant regarding flowers and other details in numerous Vermont Bride Magazines.

Stay tuned! This week we'll be posting more highlights from 2010, including invitations, food, photography, music, flowers, hairstyles and more!

Cover Brides of 2010

2010-12-19T18:38:00.001-08:00

Here are the brides that have been featured on the cover of Vermont Bride Magazine during 2010. Click the links to go directly to their love stories!

Winter 2010: Laura Shea

Spring 2010: Sabrina Sikora

Summer 2010: Elizabeth Tobin

Fall 2010 is available at many locations throughout Vermont. The love story of our Autumn cover bride and groom below will also be available on line soon - so stay tuned!

Winter 2010 Issue of Vermont Bride Magazine: Coming Soon to Locations Throughout Vermont!

2010-12-15T04:48:00.000-08:00

Cover photo by Whipple Photography

Check back for more information on the Winter issue - in production right now!

See our gallery of of past issues!

Underrated Undergarments

2010-12-08T03:09:00.000-08:00

Appropriate undergarments can add significantly to your desired appearance

One of the most important accessories is never seen, your undergarments.

Women have figure flaws. Even seemingly flawless swimsuit models have admitted insecurities about aspects of their bodies. With appropriate undergarments, they can be corrected.

Improved fabric technologies smooth your silhouette without the use of traditional girdles; however, a laced corset can dramatically change the shape of your torso, if you prefer an hourglass shape.  Gentle banding in a spandex torsolette often achieves the same look. They don’t have to be uncomfortable to be effective.

Click here to read the full article about underrated undergarments...

Related: See our oneline article by Pat Esden "Avoiding Bridal Gown Hell"

For additional info about bridal clothing in Vermont, look at Needlemans Bridal and Formal.

Avoid Bridal Gown Hell: True Stories and Tips

2010-12-06T04:58:00.000-08:00

by Pat Esden

At closing time on the day before her wedding, Bride X picked up her gown from the bridal shop.
Months ago, she’d ordered her dream gown. It had come in as expected and the alterations had been completed on time. She’ad left it at the shop rather than storing it in her cramped closet. A smart choice—-or so she thought.

When Bride X reached her car, she couldn’t resist taking a peek at the gown. She unzipped the garment bag and to her horror discovered—-the gown was not hers.

Running full tilt with the heavy dress draped over her shoulder, Bride X got back to the shop just as the owner was locking the door. As it turned out the skirt of the two-piece gown was hers, but, because of a mistake in alphabetizing, the top belonged to a different bride’s gown.

This problem was relatively simple to fix, but other bridal gown issues can cause major stress. Click here for six anonymous stories from brides who have survived bridal gown hell.

Selecting Music for Your Ceremony

2010-11-30T06:00:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Carlson

You can perfectly envision the moment you’ll begin the walk down the aisle and into your new life: the perfect location, gorgeous dress, the flowers. Now even the flower girls have completed their walk down the aisle, the music stops, and your processional has begun.

It’s the moment you’ve dreamed of for so long, finally here. What music will usher you down the aisle to the love of your life? What will he be feeling when he hears the music?

There are so many choices for today’s couples. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by all the choices, here are a few thoughts to help make the ambiance of your most special moment truly memorable, and truly personal.
First, are you a person who likes tradition, or someone who likes to forge new ground? Does a wedding without Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March” at the end feel like a birthday without singing “Happy Birthday” or Hanukkah without latkes? I know some who can’t stand the thought of the popular wedding music choices at their wedding. But for some they are as dear as “Silent Night” at Christmas time, as comforting as a “welcome home” hug, and as full of anticipationand excitement as a child’s birthday wish coming true.

Click here for the full article, including popular processional and recessional choices, as well as unusual selections made by some wedding couples...

Click here for more information about wedding musician Lisa Carlson.

“Listening to Learn, Learning to Listen”

2010-11-28T07:50:00.001-08:00

by Michael Caldwell, Partnership Center of Vermont

A man whose marriage hit a rough patch went to a sage in his hermitage.

“For one month, just listen to what your spouse is saying,” said the sage.
The man did that for a month and then went back to the sage, reporting that they were still having a hard time.

“Okay, now go back and listen for a month to what your spouse is not saying…”

DeMello suggests that preparing for the crucible of loving well that marriage implies requires a period of “listening to learn and learning to listen.” In his experience, most people didn’t listen well. They weren’t taught. It was one of the causes of the contemporary epidemic of divorce. People get easily distracted. They weren’t committed enough to being curious enough about where their partner’s opinion originated. And it seemed to be cross-cultural. In other words, not many communities or families seriously taught listening skills to their children.

Click here for the full article by Michael Caldwell...

Spotlight on Wedding Flowers: Roses

2010-11-23T04:02:00.000-08:00

By Karen Sturtevant

The Rose
Meanings
•White – Spiritual Love & Purity
•Yellow – Friendship, Joy
•Pink – Grace, Sweet thoughts, Admiration
•Orange – Desire, Enthusiasm, Fascination
•Red – Sincere Love, Passion
•Green - Calm
•Lavender/Purple – Majesty, Love at First Sight, Enchantment

Roses are one of the most widely recognized flowers and are available in hundreds of varieties year round. Roses from California, South America and Africa are shipped throughout the world. Florists purchase in bunches of 25. Click here to read the full article by Karen Sturtevant...

How to Make it Work Without the Headaches

2010-11-21T04:38:00.000-08:00

by Pat Esden

Keeping organized with a few easy tips

... Assigning duties to family and friends can eliminate headaches, but make sure to keep a list of who is doing what and when

Whether you are a last minute bride or have allowed yourself a year or more to plan your wedding, there are two keys to eliminating the headaches--organization and simplicity.

Being organized and keeping your wedding simple will make planning fun and give you time to relax and enjoy this very special time with your friends and family.

Read more of Pat Esden's organizational tips by clicking here...

For more information about Pat Esden of Esden Florists click here.

Michelle (Barrett) and Calum Gardner

2010-11-18T03:57:00.000-08:00

The Story of Our Romance

It was just over seven years ago that our paths began to cross with an increasingly frequent basis. Though not by design, our romance spanned many years and several continents before culminating in our October 2009 wedding in Vermont

As with many couples, Calum and I met at the office; we were both working at the UN World Food Programme (WFP), the UN’s humanitarian food agency, based in Rome, Italy. Rome was a wonderfully romantic place to start our relationship. Dates included moonlit motorino (moped) tours of the city, classical concerts in ancient churches, dinners featuring full-bodied wines and delicious cheeses and weekend afternoons in the Italian countryside.

Our time together wasn’t without its interruptions, though; only three months into our budding romance, the war in Iraq began and WFP launched one of its largest operations ever - and I was sent in as part of the emergency team, with only days to prepare for what would be a six month deployment. Intrigued by the challenging aspects of this operation (and perhaps concerned that our romance was facing a rather abrupt end), Calum also joined the operation and within a few months we were together again, though in Baghdad rather than Rome. I think we were probably one of the only American/British couples to be dating in Baghdad during the summer of 2003. Needless to say, our opportunities for actual dates at that time were rather limited, consisting of an occasional coffee in between meetings and dinners together when we managed to get rooms at the same hotel.

This pattern of moving to new countries with WFP continued for the next few years. Following a bombing at the UN compound in Baghdad in August 2003, we were both relocated to Jordan. A few months after that, my assignment with the Iraq operation was finished and I headed back to Rome, and shortly thereafter onto Cote d’Ivoire and then Senegal. For the next few years, our relationship consisted of e-mails, phone calls and periodic vacations together, meeting up in places like the lavender fields of Southern France, the Lake District of Northern England (Calum’s home), and the souks of Morocco.

In 2006 our paths brought us both back to Rome, where I remained for nearly two years before moving back to the US for a position with the UN in New York.

Thus began another year of e-mails, phone calls and vacations together until, while in England celebrating his April 2009 birthday together, Calum proposed to me on bended knee.

Click here to read more of Michelle and Callum's story, wedding planning, and more...

Spa Corner: Relaxation Takes Practice

2010-11-15T07:06:00.000-08:00

By Sara Daley

Being positive is stress relieving in that it puts life in perspective and you realize all you are grateful for.

Have you ever wondered how to relax?

There are times when relaxing is a difficult thing to accomplish. Sure, on the beach in Negril, relaxing is easy. But the week of your wedding, not so easy. At the spa, we are amazed at the number of times we have heard bridesmaids tell their brides, “Just relax!” The brides look at them with an anxious expression of, “I would if I knew how!”

Relax is a verb which means to spend time resting or doing things for pleasure; a relief from the effort and stress of everyday life. Using this definition as a framework, let’s explore how to do this the week leading up to your wedding.
Schedule time for rest. Make sure you are not up late at night doing tasks that you can easily do in the daytime. Try to maintain your sleep schedule and stick to it. Being refreshed the next morning will help you accomplish more the next day. Lavender is a great essential oil that can aid in sleep and relaxation.

The time to relax is when you don’t have time for it.
~Attributed to both Jim Goodwin and Sydney J. Harris

Click here to read more tips on keeping relaxed in this article by Sara Daley...

Opposites Attract

2010-11-10T04:00:00.001-08:00

Can a marriage with different views and opinions be successful? By Karen Sturtevant

He likes country music; she likes alternative rock. He’s a gamer; she’s a reader. She loves dogs; he hates anything that sheds.
Should people contemplating wedlock who share few common interests take the plunge? Are they destined to fight, bicker, and disagree which radio station they should listen to, who should take out the trash and when the house should be cleaned? Can a marriage with different views and opinions be successful?

Democratic strategist James Carville and Republican consultant Mary Matlin may disagree politically, but they have found common ground in marriage. The eccentric lead singer of The Cars, Ric Ocasek, and supermodel, Paulina Porizkova, are another example of opposites not only attracting, but flourishing with years of marriage and family.

Prince Charming lives only in storybooks. Mr. Perfect is alive and well in our fantasy worlds and imaginative minds alone. If you are fortunate enough to have fallen deeply, passionately in love, honor that commitment and realize that differences can bring a couple together and strengthen the bond between them. Would you honestly want to live with and marry yourself? As a friend of mine said “The grass isn’t always greener on the other side, sometimes it’s artificial turf.”

Let’s set the scene: take two people; place them under one roof with common goals: be happy, get along, compromise, negotiate, respect one another, grow together and don’t lose your identity in the process. Mature yourself, expand your thoughts, encounter new experiences, meet new people, learn new skills, and by the way, remember your partner. Impossible task? Can’t be done? “Happily married” is not an oxymoron; sustaining a satisfying, healthy relationship is attainable - even with an odd pairing.

Marriage is not meant to be easy; it is the ultimate pledge of commitment and a work in progress.

Click here to read more of Karen Sturtevant's article...

The Graceful Charm of a Hampton Inn Wedding

2010-11-07T07:20:00.001-08:00

If you are looking for an uncomplicated way to create the perfect celebration with all of the personal touches that celebrate you, selecting a site that “has it all” will make the road to your wedding day nothing but stress free. Shouldn’t you enjoy this time in your life?

An outdoor gazebo is surrounded by tall trees and quiet gardens; the perfect spot for a ceremony or for the cocktail reception. Why worry about Mother Nature when the peaceful flow from the gardens to the ballroom makes allowances for any surprises she may have up her sleeve!? Up to 250 guests leisurely make their way to a Ballroom basking in candlelight and filled with all of the personal touches that make the day yours and yours alone.

Click here to read the full article
Or click here for more infomation about the Hampton Inn.

Hauyin and Doug

2010-11-03T03:23:00.000-07:00

There were two strangers from worlds apart: A Chinese girl and a Jersey boy. Little did they know, they were meant for each other. The Chinese girl is me: let me tell you our story.

My name is Hau Yin; I am a city girl. I am originally from Hong Kong but moved to Vegas for my college career. In 2006, I decided that a change of pace would be welcome in my life. I moved to quaint New England, a territory I barely new existed 2 years prior. In Stowe I have met Doug: the love of my life.

Well to be honest it wasn’t exactly love at first sight, rather it was “chores” at first sight. Doug and I were housemates! I had a busy traveling job and would only see Doug between trips at which time we would do chores together. After a year of non- stop traveling I have decided to settle in Vermont.

My first “Vermont winter” was 2007. Doug was the best tour guide one could dream of. He showed me how charming and exciting Vermont was. We spent countless hours together. We experienced all winter sports and activities: from snowshoeing to skiing to snowboarding and let’s not forget about hiking and riding motorcycles. We were spending so much time together that it was obvious that our friendship was blossoming into something more. Together we saw an adventurous future with a special connection. The rest is history. Doug and I flew to Honk Kong to meet my parents. There, he asked them for my hand in marriage. The best part? He did it in Cantonese.

Read more of Hauyin and Doug's love story here...

Budget Stretching Centerpiece Ideas

2010-10-26T04:41:00.000-07:00

Centerpieces for your wedding

Often couples try to stretch their wedding budget by spending less on the table centerpieces for the reception. But, in truth, increasing the amount of money allocated to the centerpieces can often reduce the overall cost of the wedding—and make the reception more elegant at the same time.

One way to do this is to create centerpieces which serve multiple purposes.

If a couple plans on spending five dollars for a gift to put beside each guest’s place setting, then they might want to consider gifts that are suitable for gathering into a centerpiece. Click here to read more!

There are tricks that can add the illusion of size to smaller, less expensive arrangements, such as single plants or vases of solitary roses.

The easiest way to achieve this is to use a flat object under the centerpiece to make it appear larger. Drapes especially made for this purpose, linen napkins, mats, trays, or natural objects such as slate or slabs of wood, all work well.

For a country wedding, homemade mats could be created from mix and match fabrics, and later stitched together to form a keepsake quilt. Another way to add size is to use candles with the centerpiece. Candles are inexpensive and holders can be rented. Many times candles are provided by the reception hall for low or no cost. Rose petals or sparkles scattered around the centerpiece will give the illusion of larger size—but most often, skipping them and adding a few more flowers to the centerpiece will provide as much if not more visual impact.

Read the full article...

For more information about this author - florist Pat Esden - click here!

Vermont Bride Gala - Tomorrow Evening!

2010-10-22T03:10:00.000-07:00

It's not to late to buy tickets for tomorrow's Gala at Boyden Farm! Click here for more details!

Elizabeth (Tobin) & Kevin Eddy

2010-10-19T08:38:00.000-07:00

Photographs by Ayer Photography

How We Met
I knew that I wanted to marry Kevin the moment that I saw him. I didn’t feel lightheaded or like I had been hit by lightening. I felt a comfortable sense of calm when I saw Kevin. It was as if the thing that I had been waiting for was finally here. I just knew and I felt safe and quiet and happy. Kevin says that he knew I was his future bride when I stood in line for hours at an autograph signing and never complained.

The Proposal
Kevin proposed on December 18th, 2007.

At the time, I was living with my parents in Rutland and Kevin was living in an apartment in Proctor, only seconds away from his sister, her husband and their children Nathan (then 2) and Catherine (then 4). Kevin called that evening and I was exhausted. Only 4 hours earlier I had finished my nursing final exam for the semester. I was stressed, anxious and very, very tired. My younger sister was expected to arrive home from college in a few hours and I was looking forward to spending time with her and decorating the Christmas tree with my family. When Kevin called he insisted that I come to his sister’s house. Catherine had a special Christmas present that she needed to give us immediately. I told him I wanted to stay home and relax and decorate the tree – maybe I would see him tomorrow.

I eventually called Kevin to tell him I was on my way and I few minutes later I arrived at Kelly’s house in Proctor. I sat on the couch and Kevin came around the corner. He was holding Catherine and she was dressed as an angel (for Halloween that year my mother-in-law made her a wonderful angel costume that came in quite useful). Kevin came towards me and said, “Catherine has something she would like to ask you.” He got down on one knee. I had no idea what was happening. He handed me a small wooden box. I still had no idea what was happening. Despite Kevin being on one knee and me holding a box perfectly designed to hold a wedding ring, I still had no idea what was happening.

Finally, Kevin and Catherine said together, “Will you be my Auntie?” I still had no idea what was happening. Kevin told me to open the box and then I finally realized that this was it. Kevin was finally proposing. He had me convinced it was never going to happen. So before I could Yes! or I love you, I said, “I hate you, you jerk,” and a few other choice phases. I was laughing and crying and telling Kevin I hated him. And then in between my tears and laughs, I said yes. I can still hear Kelly squealing and prancing around in the background. I of course did not hate Kevin. He just had me believing he wasn’t ready. For that moment to finally be happening was just unbelievable to me.

Special Details
Our wedding ceremony and reception were full of personal touches. It is one of the many reasons our guests had such a wonderful time and why our wedding was so memorable. The ceremony was performed in front of a wishing well at the Echo Lake Inn. At the end of our ceremony we tossed pennies into the well. Each penny was created in the year that we were born. The penny represented the hopes and dreams that we had for ourselves and the wish for a long and happy marriage together.

Click here to read more of Elizabeth and Kevin's Love Story.

Elizabeth was the cover bride for the summer edition of Vermont Bride magazine. This and other articles from Vermont Bride Magazine's Summer edition are being uploaded daily. Click here to check out other articles.

The Long and Short to Amazing Bridal Hair

2010-10-15T04:24:00.000-07:00

Perfect bridal hair compliments and completes your personal wedding style. Not only does the ideal hairstyle accessorize and enhance your beautiful features, it also offers you a chance to create a dramatic sophisticated look as your bridal image.

Deciding Your Style
There are many considerations when choosing a hairstyle that will work for you. The first and most important is to be realistic with what your hair can do. If you have fine hair, a thick full updo may be more difficult. The setting and formality of your wedding should be taken into consideration. Is the wedding inside or outside? What does your dress look like? Is it strapless, or what type of straps does it have? Are you wearing a veil? Are you wearing a tiara? Where is the veil going to sit? Do you plan to take the veil off after the ceremony? Check to see if the style you have chosen is age appropriate. Does the hairstyle compliment your attitude? Looking through wedding magazines and cutting out photos of what you like are extremely helpful to stylists.

Read more tips for your perfect hair style here...

2010-10-12T04:56:00.000-07:00

Come online with the celebration of your engagement and wedding events! Vermont Bride Magazine wants to show your photos online. Vermont Bride Magazine is not only the first and foremost Vermont wedding magazine, but we have also have an extensive online web presence along with Facebook, Twitter and this Blogspot.

Post your photos and wedding details (zany, romantic or silly) and you will automatically be entered in our database for possible publication of your love story in an upcoming issue of Vermont Bride Magazine. (You can download complete copies of our magazine in PDF to see sample issues)

If you already have a Facebook, Twitter or Blogspot account, it is easy to just friend/follow us online. Or you can click here to access our handy online form (at the bottom of the page) to upload your photos and a description of your story to us, and we will then 'spread the news.'

We are especially interested in your stories which include the names of your event locations, towns in Vermont, and the vendors that you used.

Note: We cannot use every story and image that we receive, but we appreciate every submission that we receive. Thank you!

We look forward to hearing from you!

Boyden Farm

2010-10-11T04:47:00.000-07:00

Tickets are selling fast for the Vermont Bride Gala to be held at the beautiful Barn at Boyden Farm. Here are a few pictures of recent events held at the barn. You can click here for more information about the October 23 Vermont Bride Gala or to purchase tickets. Not your typical bridal show!

And Now for the Cake!

2010-10-06T05:04:00.000-07:00

For billionaire Donald Trump and his most recent bride, Melania Knauss, a wedding celebration wouldn’t be complete without a showstopper cake. The couple went with a 5-foot tall, seven-tiered orange Grand Marnier chiffon cake with a light Grand Marnier butter-cream filling. The paltry pastry weighed more than 50 pounds, was garnished with 3,000 white-icing roses and probably cost its weight in gold.

In a nutshell, if you want to get the perfect cake for the perfect day, you’ll need to “plan ahead, know what you like and take your time to find the right chef to fit your needs,” says Michelle Lunde of Delicate Decadence Cake Boutique.

Maybe you should consider looking at the magazines or website over a glass of wine with your fiancé. The cake is often a reflection of the two of you, so make sure you are on the same page when it comes to the design, flavor and size.

Don’t worry too much about picking a cake based entirely on what might appeal to guests, says Gretel-Ann Fischer of Fischer’s Fancies.

Click here for more thoughts on wedding cake selection!

The Barn at Boyden Farm: October 23 Gala

2010-10-05T05:18:00.001-07:00

The beautiful Barn at Boyden Farm is opening it's doors to wedding couples on October 23!

An evening of live entertainment, delicious foods including dessert, cash bar and signature drink specials.

You will attend a wedding style fashion show which includes elegant styles for the entire bridal party. Inside the Barn, the evening will move you through four seasons of celebration décor and ideas for planning your own exquisite day. You will see fabulous floral arrangements, table décor, centerpieces, place cards, stunning photography, and so much more. Your senses will be wowed by the gourmet catered tastes, signature drinks, music, dancing and entertainment.

Exhibitors will display their special talents and products in spectacular ways throughout the Barn. This unique style of bridal show will allow you to envision these creations as your own and make your wedding plans even more spectacular. This extravaganza is meant for your future wedding planning as well as your evening enjoyment.

In honor of family & friends portions of proceeds from this event will benefit The Breast Care Center of Vermont.

GALA HIGHLIGHTS
•Photo Gallery featuring works by Larry Asam, Ayer Photography, Kim Martin & Orah Moore
•Cocktail Hour Music provided by Professor Fairbanks: Violinist Extraordinaire
•Decor Provided by VT Tent Company
•Floral Arrangements and decor provided by Creative Muse, Village Green, Howard's Floral and Esden Florist
•Dance the Night away with the band Shakedown
•Spectacular fashion show with all the latest from Needleman's Bridal
•MC & Impromptu tunes by Super Sounds DJ
•Splendid Catered tastes by Tasty Persuasions Catering, Susanna's Catering, Chow Bella, Jeff's Seafood and Montgomery Catering Company
•Delicate Cake tastes by Fischer's Fancies, Snaffle Sweets and The Little Purple Cake Shoppe
•Prizes & Give Aways!!!
•Enjoy a festive evening at the Barn & help support The Breast Care Center of VT - October is Breast Care Awareness Month!

Click here for further information.

Vermont Bride GALA at The Barn at Boyden Farm

2010-10-03T00:49:00.001-07:00

Saturday, October 23, 2010 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm The Barn at Boyden Farm
Tickets $30 each, sold in advance only!

Cocktails . Eats . Dessert . Dancing Evening Attire Expected
Not your typical bridal show!

The Barn will be transformed by four seasons of celebration decor and ideas for planning the wedding day of your dreams. You will see exquisite floral arrangements, table decor, centerpieces, place cards, stunning photography, the latest bridal fashions, and so much more. Your senses will be wowed by the gourmet catered eats, decadent desserts, and signature drinks. Dress to the nines and enjoy music, dancing, and entertainment.

Exhibitors will display their special talents and products in unexpected and spectacular ways throughout the Barn. The unique style of this bridal show will allow you to envision these creations as your own. This gala is meant for your future wedding planning as well as your evening enjoyment. We look forward to seeing you there!

In honor of friends and family and Breast Cancer Awareness Month a portion of the proceeds will benefit The Breast Cancer Center of Vermont.

Tickets are also available for purchase at the following locations:

Boyden Valley Winery – Cambridge, VT

Howards the Flower Shop - St. Albans, VT

Needleman’s Bridal & Formal – St. Albans & Burlington, VT

Village Green Floist – Essex Jct., VT

VT Tent Company – So.Burlington, VT

Hay Maker Press – Morrisville, VT

Creative Muse Floral Design – Enosburg Falls, VT

Click here for more information!

Or click here for a list of venders.

2010-10-01T05:06:00.000-07:00

Vermont Bridal Shows new online

2010-09-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

New online!

Vermont Bridal Shows is now online. Check it out for latest info on Vermont area bridal events, like the VT Bride Gala to be held October 24 at the Barn at Boyden Farm, the Needleman's 6th Annual Bridal Expo, and the Central Vermont Bridal Expo, to be held at the Montpelier Elk's Club.

Click to go to Vermont Bridal Shows online

Sara and Justin

2010-09-28T04:17:00.001-07:00

Who would have imagined that the girl who owned a chocolate store and the boy who managed a fitness center would meet and fall in love? In 2006 my father and I opened a dessert cafe in Philadelphia.

Conveniently for me there was a gym on the lower level of the building. Scared of what all of the cupcakes and chocolate would do to my figure (what girl could resist the temptation when surrounded by them every day?), I joined immediately. Justin was at the front desk everyday when I came in to work out. I remember thinking he was extremely handsome and always had the biggest smile on his face.

One day we were working out at the same time and he struck up a conversation with me (his version might be the other way around). We realized how much we had in common and before he left he made sure to get my phone number. After going out on our first date we were pretty much inseparable. And as it turns out, he’s a huge chocolate lover!

Read more of Sara and Justin's love story including: their engagement, most memorable details, and planning advice for brides...

Vermont Bride GALA at the Boyden Farm October 23

2010-09-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

SAVE THE DATE!
Vermont Bride GALA at The Barn at Boyden Farm

Saturday, October 23, 2010 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm The Barn at Boyden Farm
Tickets $30 each sold in advance only at www.boydenfarm.com
Cocktails . Eats . Dessert . Dancing Evening Attire Expected
Not your typical bridal show!

The Barn will be transformed by four seasons of celebration decor and ideas for
planning the wedding day of your dreams. You will see exquisite floral arrangements,
table decor, centerpieces, place cards, stunning photography, the latest bridal fashions, and so much more. Your senses will be wowed by the gourmet catered eats, decadent desserts, and signature drinks. Dress to the nines and enjoy music, dancing, and entertainment.

Exhibitors will display their special talents and products in unexpected and spectacular ways throughout the Barn. The unique style of this bridal show will allow you to envision these creations as your own. This gala is meant for your future wedding planning as well as your evening enjoyment. We look forward to seeing you there!

In honor of friends and family and Breast Cancer Awareness Month a portion
of the proceeds will benefit The Breast Cancer Center of Vermont.

Vermont Bride Magazine, Fall 2010 Edition Now Available!

2010-09-24T05:11:00.000-07:00

Cover photo by Ayer Photography

The cover story for the Fall 2010 issue features Jaimie (Demars) & Richard Welcome

•AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT VERMONT
•116 PAGES
•250+ VENDOR BRIDAL RESOURCE GUIDE
•46 LOCATION ACCOMMODATIONS GUIDE
•33 REGULAR AND FEATURE ARTICLES

The FALL 2010 ISSUE - - OUR LARGEST ISSUE YET, is now here! Weighing in with 116 pages of information, resources, beautiful photography and extensive vendor lists, Vermont Bride Magazine is the guide to bridal events for this 2010 Autumn Wedding Season. Look for a copy available throughout the state of Vermont.

Check back here for more online info soon!

Rehearsal Dinners: Relaxed & Casual

2010-09-22T03:04:00.000-07:00

The wonderful American tradition of rehearsal dinners started more than 50 years ago, being first attested in 1953.

It was originally a time for the wedding party and their spouses or significant others to share a meal following the rehearsal for the following day’s ceremony.

Traditionally hosted by the parents of the groom the night prior to the wedding the dinner has more recently evolved to include out of town guests who are also welcomed to this pre-wedding party. Nowadays it is not unusual to include all guests attending the wedding particularly at a destination location.

Subsequently the function of this pre wedding party has changed somewhat and now serves as an effective tool to ‘Break the ice’ providing a great opportunity for the two families and the wedding couples various friends to meet and interact in a friendly and relaxing environment.

Read more of this article by Christopher Francis of Ye Olde England Inne (recently honored as the Stowe Business Person of The Year 2009).

First Comes Love …

2010-09-17T07:49:00.000-07:00

Capturing the Story Behind the Wedding Day Magic

As a personal historian who helps individuals and families share and preserve their memories, I often interview couples celebrating a golden anniversary or milestone birthday. And we always touch on one topic in particular–their wedding day. But after fifty years or so, memories can be a tad bit fuzzy...

But there are steps that you can take today that will boost memory recall later on. Click here to read some of Amanda Kuhnert's tips on keeping those memories fresh.

Best Plans + Imperfections = Perfection!

2010-09-14T04:47:00.001-07:00

Planning the perfect wedding, you say? Is there really such a thing as planning the perfect wedding? I believe there is - the perfect wedding that is. Planning it and having it are two different things.

As you start to plan your perfect wedding, take on a casual attitude and roll with the decisions. As your plans begin to gently fall into place, so will the whole occasion and you will find total enjoyment in it. Have faith in your decisions and know that with your best laid plans, the majority of the imperfections may happen whether you know it or not; behind the scenes. Someone will take the reins and control the situation. It could be the chef, the on site staff, or your Aunt Claire who was sworn to secrecy never to mention the missing toasting glasses.

Days later you will telephone her to thank her for coming. She will respond “Darling, please you are so very welcome. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. It was the perfect wedding!”

Read on and you will see why all weddings are perfect. Click here for true stories from actual weddings with imperfections and all but perfect through and through.

Eco-Friendly Weddings: Going Green

2010-09-10T02:48:00.000-07:00

We’ve all changed our lifestyle due to the way we care about the environment. We turn off water when brushing our teeth, lights (powered by energy efficient bulbs) are clicked off when we leave a room, we return empty cans and don’t think twice about separating plastic from cardboard. We’re doing our part to preserve Mother Earth. For couples choosing to further this cause as part of their wedding, they get two big green thumbs up. Our favorite frog Kermit said: “It’s not that easy bein’ green.” If Kermit ever got his willpower energized and popped the question to Ms. Piggy, he would have realized that going green doesn’t mean sacrificing style or panache. It’s easier than he imagined. These thoughts empower all of us to make decisions that will have positive, rather than destructive, impacts on our planet.

Continue reading this article by Karen Sturtevant for specific suggestions on "green" choices for your wedding, including your gown,jewelry, ceremony and reception, decor, flowers and more...

Laura and Chris

2010-09-08T13:31:00.001-07:00

Laura (Shea) Lafaille was the cover bride from the Winter 2010 issue of Vermont Bride Magazine

As corny as the saying may be, I believe that how we met could truly be described in one simple word - kismet.

Both Chris and I had recently come out of long-term relationships, so we were “new” to the dating scene. All of our friends were no longer single …they had families of their own, and were rarely interested in accompanying us to local singles hot spots, or in playing matchmaker. But all that changed the day after Christmas 2006 when a good friend from high school called me up and invited me out for drinks with her and some friends. They were celebrating her new boyfriend’s birthday. At some point in the evening, the story of how they met came up. We all learned they had met on Match.com. They shared how great an experience it was. I saw how truly happy they were. After much coaxing and consideration, I decided to give it a shot; after all, what did I have to lose?

I was in the kitchen doing dishes when Chris returned home from a morning round of golf. He was hanging around the kitchen island, carrying on about how great a morning he’d had. I paid no real attention until he started telling me how lucky we were to have met. As I turned to face him, he was down on one knee holding a small blue box. He proclaimed his love for me and asked if I’d spend the rest of my life with him.

Photography by Stina Plant Photography. Event held at the Catamount Country Club.
Read more of Laura and Chris's Love Story!

Jodi and Justin's Love Story

2010-09-05T09:41:00.000-07:00

Photographs by Great Impressions Portrait Studio

It all began when I received an Instant Message from a stranger one afternoon my senior year in high school. Little did I known, seven years later, that stranger and I would be saying, “I do”...

Our relationship has overcome many obstacles. But with each obstacle we have faced, our love for one another has not wavered and our relationship has only become stronger. At the end of the day, no matter the distance or the challenges of day, we are happy knowing that we have one another.

Read more of Jodi and Justin's Love Story.

Click here for more information about the historic Middlebury Inn.

Your Floral Style

2010-09-01T02:23:00.000-07:00

If I were to walk into your closet, would I find the latest fashions from Valentino, Christian Dior, and Elie Saab? Would I see secondhand treasures from a downtown Burlington shop? Or, would I appreciate timeless classics like a little black dress, white button-downs, and coordinated camisoles and sweaters? Your choice of clothing reveals glimpses of your statement of style. When the time comes to choose your wedding flowers, you will be asked to select the blooms that best reflect your personality and individuality. What are your preferences?

Take our quiz to find your floral style!

Pre-wedding Spa Services for Vermont Brides

2010-08-31T14:16:00.000-07:00

You prepare, you plan, ...you need to relax!
Getting ready can mean taking a much needed break and relaxing for a bit before the big day. Whether as a gift to your wedding party, or your brides maids, or as a way to indulge yourself, too, a trip can be the much-needed item on a too-long list of "to do's."

See the Vermont Bride Magazine for a complete list of Spa Centers and Services in Vermont.

Needleman's Bridal in Vermont

2010-08-28T19:14:00.000-07:00

A longtime supporter of Vermont Bride Magazine and the finest of bridal gown shops in Vermont, Needlemans Bridal and Formal provides an extensive selection with first-class customer support from four locations throughout Vermont:

St. Albans - Shop
38 North Main Street
St. Albans, Vermont 05478
(802)-527-1922

Newport - Shop
One Main Street
Newport, Vermont 05855
(802)-334-8000

Burlington - Shop
570 Shelburne Road Suite 2
Burlington Vermont 05403
(802) 660 7212

Barre - Shop
75 N Main Street 4
Barre, VT 05641
802-477-5081
Toll free: 800-924-Gown (4696)

Chelsea and Andre

2010-08-28T09:36:00.000-07:00

One evening, after waking from a nap, we decided to go on a stroll to find a restaurant for dinner. As we were walking through the medieval square in Krakow, referred to as the Rynek, the clock struck 8 o’clock and a trumpet appeared in the west window of the basilica towering above us. I had heard this tune several times over the past few days as it is an hourly historic tradition in Krakow. As the trumpet began to play, Andre interrupted my jetlagged mumbling by turning to me and opening a box. I immediately snapped out of my daze, realizing the question that he was asking me to which I replied “of course.”

Read more of Chelsea and Andre's love story...

Photographs by RaidenShine Photography.

Synchronicity Photography

2010-08-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

When you're ready to make the choice of a photographer to make the pictures you will view with pleasure for a lifetime, turn to the experience and professionalism of Synchronicity Photography. Learn more about them

online at VT Bride Magazine online

SynSynchronicity Photography
409 Farrell Street Unit 109
South Burlington, VT. 05403

802-238-0508

Transportation? Getting there in style

2010-08-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

Apollo Limo has served brides, grooms and their wedding parties for over 50 years. Take a look at our more info page about Apollo Limo online at the main VT Bride Magazine web site here.

Apollo Limo
666 Riverside Ave.
Burlington, VT

Toll-Free 800-696-7433
or 802-863-3564

Jen Sawrenko and Matt Gellis

2010-08-25T04:27:00.000-07:00

Photos of Jen Sawrenko and Matt Gellis by Synchronicity Photography.

PLANNING ADVICE TO BRIDES AND GROOMS:
Several months before the wedding Matt’s grandmother wrote us a letter sharing a story about her own wedding day. As she fretted the details, her elder sister admonished her “Pay attention, you are getting married! It doesn’t matter where or how, but you are marrying the only person you want to be with for life. Nothing else is important.” She wanted us to be present in the moment, and to remember that the most important part of our wedding was our future happiness, together as husband and wife.

You can read more about Jen and Matt's Love Story here!

Vermont Bridal Resources

2010-08-23T17:46:00.000-07:00

Did you know that you can download a complete (and FREE) copy of the Vermont Bride Magazine BRIDAL RESOURCE GUIDE which contains information for 145 vendors/categories from the state of Vermont?

Vermont bride cosmetic, aesthetic and make up professionals

2010-08-20T07:02:00.002-07:00

Preparing for the ceremony and looking your absolute best is achieved with pro-level help. Vermont has a range of professional make-up, cosmetic and aesthetic services catering directly to the bride-to-be.

See a complete list of vendors with information and locations online at Vermont Bride Magazine

Lodging for your bridal event

2010-08-18T06:58:00.000-07:00

You've decided on Vermont, you've got your guest list, but where will everyone be staying?

See our online list of 24 Lodging destinations in Vermont, ready to take care of you and your wedding party. From the absolutely modern to traditional bed and breakfasts, the variety in Vermont is for every taste and budget. Check out our online vendor list!

You can receive a FREE issue

2010-08-18T06:55:00.001-07:00

Did you know that you can receive a FREE issue of Vermont Bride Magazine?

All you have to do is sign up online to have a free issue of Vermont Bride Magazine sent to you via the United States postal Service. Absolutely no cost to you!

Food for your Vermont Wedding events

2010-08-17T12:13:00.001-07:00

From a small wedding to the largest, planning for the catering is one of the most important tasks ahead for the bride and groom.

The online list of Vermont caterers makes this easy, take a look!

Could you be in Vermont Bride Magazine?

2010-08-17T12:08:00.000-07:00

If you have recently had a wedding in Vermont, or are planning your wedding now and have already taken preliminary gown photos or engagement shots, we would like to hear from you!

Use or handy online upload form to let us know about your event!

Vermont Photographers Showcase

2010-08-16T15:31:00.000-07:00

See our online VERMONT PHOTOGRAPHER SHOWCASE - - the number one internet guide for researching wedding photographers of Vermont.

Wedding Receptions in Vermont

2010-08-12T21:16:00.000-07:00

Vermont features the beautiful rolling green hills, four beautiful seasons of color and change, and the warm welcoming spirit of the citizens. Potential locations are everywhere: elegant, traditional sites, and casual, simple places.

Check out our list of Vermont Bride Magazine vendors for every kind and class of location, designed to meet budgets big and small, and to provide the lasting impression only a unique state like Vermont can provide.

See our 42-vendor online list of Wedding Reception vendors in Vermont.

Vermont state wedding accommodations chart

2010-08-08T17:12:00.000-07:00

Beginning to make your plan for your wedding will take place? Then see the limits and possibilities for several dozen prime Vermont State locations by using our accommodations chart (Click to view entire chart here).

Is there a dance floor? Catering provided? Inside AND outside areas for use? How many people can be accommodated? Our chart shows you that info quickly and easily.

Read the Spring VT Bride online now!

2010-08-07T20:48:00.000-07:00

We've migrated almost all of the Spring 2010 issue of Vermont Bride online. There's also a PDF download containing every single page, for reading at your leisure on your own computer.

Fall Gala Bridal Event - October 23, 2010

2010-08-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

SAVE THE DATE!

Vermont Bride GALA at The Barn at Boyden Farm

Saturday, October 23, 2010 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm The Barn at Boyden Farm
Tickets $30 each sold in advance only at www.boydenfarm.com
Cocktails . Eats . Dessert . Dancing Evening Attire Expected
Not your typical bridal show!

The Barn will be transformed by four seasons of celebration decor and ideas for
planning the wedding day of your dreams.

Read more about his event at the Vermont Bride Web Site

If you would like to be an exhibitor at the Gale Bridal Event, contact us soon!

The Fall Issue is coming - Get ready!

2010-08-03T20:35:00.000-07:00

If you are a Vermont Bride Magazine wedding professional, time to get ready for the FALL ISSUE of VT Bride. If you need to see our free online media kit, go here for the request and download.

10 Steps to a Perfect Vermont Wedding

2010-08-03T20:17:00.000-07:00

For a simple list of quick tips to help clarify planning, take a look at the VT Bride online TEN TIPS TO A PERFECT VERMONT WEDDING.

Photo by RaidenShine Photography