IN Chartiers Valley Spring 2014 | Page 25

cake include pearls, white or chocolate shavings, silver and/or gold leaves, cake toppers, confection flowers or fresh flowers. Orchids, roses or any other kind of decor made with edible fondant make the most elegant cakes. The design of your cake is all about the presentation, but the flavors and fillings are the heart of the cake. The selection varies and includes such options as angel food, chocolate, lemon, mousse, orange, raspberry, spice, truffle, white chocolate or whipped cream and berries—to name a few. With so much emphasis on the cake, remember to taste test at this point, but don’t forget to order your cake at least 3 months in advance. The perfect bouquet makes any event special, especially your wedding. Choosing your favorite flowers for your bridal bouquet can depend on the time of year. The season will influence what kind of flowers you’ll have unless you have special flowers imported. Keep in mind that the cost of imported flowers can be 20-30 percent more. When you visit your florist, bring along a fabric swatch of the bridesmaids’ dresses and a photo of your dress (should you have it already) to share the style and color scheme of your wedding. If cost is a concern, have your florist fill in your bouquet and the other floral arrangements with less expensive flowers, including ivy, baby’s breath or daisies. Keep in mind that if you’re planning to wed around popular dates such as Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day, the cost of flowers can double. Your wedding day photos and video need to be taken by a reputable photographer or videographer. The best way to guarantee that you’ve selected a good photographer and videographer is through word of mouth from family and friends. Ask to review their wedding portfolio and demo reel so you know exactly how they shoot and what style. Some shoot candid shots; others go for more formal portraits, while some can do a combination of both. Knowing your personal style and the theme of your wedding will distinguish which type of photography and videography you’ll choose. Most importantly share with your photographer a list of shots and specific people that you definitely want to be photographed