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 2030 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 w hich 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.
6 MONTHS TO THE DAY:
Select & Order Your Invitations
Your invitations are a reflection of your wedding and should
express the tone of the day. A traditional invitation should
have the following components within an outer envelope:
the invitation, a reception card (if so desired), a response card
accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope, and printed
directions to the ceremony and reception sites all inside an
unsealed inner envelope. If you want to go the formal route with
engraving, keep in mind the process can take 1-3 months, so
allow time to proof what you’ve paid for. In terms of postage,
an important step is to know how much it will cost, so have one
complete invitation weighed at the post office. Other things
that can be a hidden cost include irregular-shaped envelopes, or
special enclosures such as buttons, strings, clasps, or seals.
4 MONTHS TO THE DAY: Purchase Your Rings
Next to dreaming about your wedding dress are dreams
about your wedding rings. Choosing the right bands is very
important. With the engagement ring, there’s a promise to love
each other forever and the wedding band signifies
your commitment. One of the most popular styles
in wedding bands is platinum. Its durability and
strength will stand the test of time. White gold is
a great alternative to buying platinum because it
looks like platinum; only it’s not as expensive. For
more traditional brides and grooms, choosing a warm
yellow gold wedding band is still a stylish option. When
you order your rings, have the jeweler engrave a message or
personal inscription on the inside or perimeter. Start the process
as soon as possible to make sure you receive the rings in plenty of
time for your ceremony. ■
BEGINS —
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WEDDING DIRECTORY
Bella Sera
724.745.5575 | www.bellaserapgh.com
Our weddings are as unique as the couples we honor! Crowned “Best
of Weddings 2013” by The Knot, Bella Sera tastefully combines the
ingredients dream weddings are made of – incredible food, extraordinary
service, and the perfect ambiance at our one-of-a-kind Tuscan venue. Ask
about our special White Winter Weddings and Fabulous Friday Wedding
packages, ceremonies, rehearsal dinners and showers! Call us today at
724.745.5575 or visit www.bellaserapgh.com.
80 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Peters Township