wedding guide spring 2015

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See local weddings stories on pages 3, 4,10 & 11

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ready, set, marry: getting married at city hallBy Donna RousseauFeature Writer

In an era of the television show “Say Yes To The Dress,” it may seem big weddings are the best way to say “I do” but, not everyone has the budget or the desire for a lavish affair. For young brides and grooms or couples not looking for the fanfare of a big, white wedding, city hall is the starting place to make “Mr. and Mrs.” a reality.

Alison Pepin, license specialist for the City Clerk’s office in Auburn said, “The first step [when planning your wedding] is to file your intentions with the city; the couple must be free to marry. Then they purchase the license and secure two witnesses to sign the license after the ceremony.” She added that people under the age of 17 must have parental consent to marry.

Maine statute requires that at least one person applying for the marriage license be a resident of the town from which they are purchasing the license. If both parties are from out of state, they may apply for a license anywhere in the state. Both parties must be present to sign for the license.

There are instances in which one party may be unable to be present due to retention at an institution elsewhere. For such situations, the license may be signed by the present party, brought to the person at the facility for signature in the presence of a notary and witness, and returned to city hall.

According to Pepin, the marriage license costs $40; the first certified copy is $15 and $6 for additional copies.

“If there is to be a name change, the couple will need a certified copy of the marriage license,” explained Pepin as to why additional copies may be needed.

Although city hall does not perform ceremonies, they do provide a list of notaries who can. “We’ve had people meet their notary here and get married in the lobby. One day I had a couple purchasing their license and there was a notary at another window doing business. When he heard they needed a notary, he said he was one and he married them out in the parking lot,” said Pepin.

James Parker became a notary specifically so he could marry two friends. Since then, he has conducted several ceremonies including officiating over his son’s wedding ceremony. He has performed services in the simplest of locales – a backyard – to grander venues with sweeping ocean views. Some of his couples have chosen to write their own vows while others have asked him to write a personalized ceremony for them.

“Everyone is different,” said Parker. “Some people want a simple service without any religious overtones; others want to write their own vows. Couples can even find ceremonies and vows on the [Internet].”

At the end of the day, what makes the marriage is the couple’s desire and willingness to commit to one another, the promise to honor one another for a lifetime. Simply, with a license, a notary, and two witnesses, a couple can become husband and wife affordably and as quickly as they can say “I do!”

Submitted photoJim Parker officiating at his son Brian Parker's outdoor wedding ceremony to Katelyn Cooper at Clark's Cove, Walpole, Maine.


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Vintage photos, barns and family: The art leading up to 'I do'By T. S. ChamberlandFeature Writer

The planning that goes into a wedding -- the cake, the hall, music, decorations, vows, and of course the dress, requires serious focus. In all the hubbub of checking

tasks off the to-do list, it can be tough to incorporate things that capture who the bride and groom are, both individually and as a couple. Given all the choices out there, it is truly a test in commitment to settle on the perfect theme for that most special day.

Of the most popular matrimonial trends right now, barn weddings and all things vintage seem to be topping the list. Rest assured, however, because with all the possibilities out there, no two weddings are alike.

Chelsea and Michael Bernier, who recently moved to Hypoluxo, Florida from Lisbon, Maine went with a theme of rustic elegance. Once they made that decision, it was time to find a venue for their Nov. 8, 2014 wedding. Nothing says rustic quite as well as posts and beams, so it was definitely a barn wedding for this couple.

“Barn weddings are huge right now, not only in Maine, but all over the country,” said Bernier, formerly of Lisbon. “When we found our venue, Granite Ridge Estate and Barn, we were blown away. It definitely inspired us to do the rustic components of our wedding.”

It was important to the couple to have the ceremony and reception in one place. After seeing the view of the White Mountains that Granite Ridge Estate and Barn in Norway boasted, Bernier said they had found their majestic wedding spot.

“We decided on an outdoor ceremony, complete with f leece throws and hand warmers, since it was to be a cold November day,” shared Bernier.

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From left: Chelsea Bernier, Benjamin Martin, and Michael Bernier.

Submitted photosChad, Laura and Klaire Schrepper.

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Thinking about having a Valentine's Day wedding?By MetroCreative

Valentine's Day evokes strong emotions in so many people. On the official day of all things love, many eagerly anticipate the chance to spend time with their sweethearts.

Couples who already have hearts in their eyes and are enamored with all things Valentine's Day may want to tie the knot on this special holiday, and few can argue when a couple decides to become husband and wife on this day devoted to love and affection.

Valentine's Day is a popular day to tie the knot, as more than two million people choose February 14 to walk down the aisle in the United States alone. Valentine's Day is an easy day to remember, meaning it will be hard for husbands and wives to forget their wedding anniversaries.

Another benefit to getting married on Valentine's Day is the ambiance may already be taken care of by various establishments in the community. Reception halls may be embellished with f lowers, balloons and other decor, while businesses may already be displaying hearts in their windows and twinkling pink, red and white lights for Valentine's-focused customers.

Couples who may not know which colors to choose for their wedding parties and table linens can just go with the colors and themes of Valentine's Day if they decide to tie the knot on February 14. Chocolate brown, red, lavender, and pink are primary hues for the season, and any combination will

complement the festivities and ceremony -- whether they're the color of the napkins or making up the bouquet.

Valentine's Day treats and trinkets make for great wedding favors. Guests can take home individual boxes of chocolates or crystal candle votives, while buffet dessert tables can be embellished with vases filled with chocolate kisses or candied hearts.

Couples looking for a special day to tie the knot need not look any further than Valentine's Day, a day devoted to couples and the affection they share for each other.

Couples looking for a special day to tie the knot need not look any further than Valentine's Day, a day devoted to couples and the affection they share for each other.

The guide tochoosing groomsmenBy MetroCreative

Grooms-to-be face ma ny decisions regarding t heir pending nuptials, but few may prove as del icate as choosing t he groomsmen for the big day. Friends who expect to be groomsmen may be disappointed if they are not ultimately chosen, while brothers may feel left out if they are not asked to walk a bridesmaid up the aisle.

Choosing groomsmen should not be taken lightly. Grooms-to-be who are facing some difficult choices with regard to that decision can follow a few pointers to ensure they make the right call.

Pick a number. Before you even consider who you want you r g room smen to be, speak to your fiancee about

how many bridesmaids she hopes to have. The number of groomsmen and bridesmaids typically matches, so your f ia ncee's i ntent ions may ma ke your decision a lot easier.

For example, if you have two brothers and several friends you're considering, but your fiancee only intends to have a maid of honor and one bridesmaid, then you can just ask both of your brothers to serve as groomsmen. Friends are unlikely be offended if family members get the nod ahead of them, so discuss numbers with your fiancee before you begin trimming your list of candidates.

groomsmenpage 6 ‰


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Many g r ooms f ace di f f ic ult decisions when choosing their groomsmen. But there are ways to make such decisions a lot easier than they may seem.

If you already have an idea of who you want to be your groomsmen but your choices outnumber your fiancee's, see if she has anyone else she can add to her party so no one is left out.

Choose the best man for the job. Many grooms pick a brother to serve as their best man, and while that's a nice sentiment, it's important that grooms recognize that being a best man carries with it some responsibility.

A best man wil l organize the bachelor party, give a toast at the wedding and handle any post-wedding duties, such as returning the tuxes or arranging for the newlyweds' transportation to the airport. If your brother is already incredibly busy or if you doubt he is up to the task of being a best man, then you might be better off asking him to be a g roomsma n and f inding another best man who's more capable of juggling the numerous responsibilities that come with being best man.

Don't forget your fiancee's

family. While you should not feel pressured to pick anyone in particular as your best man, if your fiancee has any brothers, ask her if she had her heart set on including any of them in the bridal party. Some brides want their brothers to be groomsmen, so discuss this with your fiancee before asking anyone to line up beside you. This discussion can go both ways as well, as you can ask your br ide-to-be to i nclude a favorite sister in her bridal party if you so desire.

Confirm their availability. W hen a sk i ng f r iend s or f a m i l y m e m b e r s t o b e g room smen, it 's best to ensure t hey can actua l ly make it to the ceremony. This is a concern for grooms who are planning a destination wedding or those gett ing married in their f iancee's hometown and not their own, as some guests, including potential groomsmen, may not be able to afford to attend a n over se a s or f a r aw ay ceremony.

W h e n a s k i n g , e x p l a i n t h e s i t u a t i on t o t h e m , a nd let t hem k now you f u l ly u ndersta nd i f t hey cannot commit to being a groomsmen due to travel or

financial concerns. Confirm their availability as soon as possible, as you don't want to be down one groomsman come your big day.

For those who you want to be a groomsmen but a re unable to make it, it can be a nice gesture to buy them a groomsmen gift as a token of your appreciation for their f r iendship. Many grooms face difficult decisions when choosing their groomsmen. But there are ways to make such decisions a lot easier than they may seem.

groomsmenfrom page 5 Creative ways to make a

memorable wedding entranceBy MetroCreative

Once wedding vows and rings have been exchanged, many couples join their fr iends a nd fa m i ly to celebrate with a wedding reception. Many brides and grooms eagerly await the moment when they can make their g r a n d e nt r a n c e t o t h e reception, and over the years it has become customar y for couples to make a bit of a splash when making their first appearance as husband and wife.

Some enter with a special s o n g . O t h e r s p r e f e r s o m e t h i n g a b i t m o r e t heat r ica l. Ex plore t hese ideas for memorable wedding reception entrances.

Catch guests by surprise. Wedding guests will probably expect the wedding party to enter through a certain door a nd t he br ide a nd groom to follow afterward. A n element of su r pr ise, such as the couple rising from the f loor or appearing

from a different area in the recept ion ha l l , may not require a lot of planning but can have a dramatic effect. Unpred ictable ent ra nces a lso i nclude u nex pected song choices or dramatic lighting to immediately draw everyone's attention.

Stick to one or two songs. Some couples think it might be fun to have each member of the wedding party enter with a different song. Not only will this take a lot of coordination on the part of the deejay, but it can make the entrance choppy as well.

Introductions may go more smoothly if couples have the entire wedding party enter to a part icular song that revs up the crowd and gets them excited for the grand entrance. At the height of the song, the bride and groom w i l l enter. The ent ra nce t y pic a l l y s e g ue s i nto a couple's first dance.

Go with people's strengths. A couple may want to showcase special skills as they enter

the reception hall. There's no limit to what couples can do, from acrobatic techniques to tap dancing to juggling. If it's entertaining, it very well may prove memorable.

Make sure everyone is on b o a r d . C ou p l e s s h ou l d r e c o g n i z e t h a t s o m e members of t he wedding party may be uncomfortable acting like clowns in front of a crowd. Do not force anyone to participate in crazy antics if they do not want to.

Find things each member of a wedding pa rt y feels comfortable doing. Couples may want their bridal party members to enter in a more traditional way before the newly weds do something m o r e d r a m a t i c a n d humorous.

Include the entrance in your planning. If you want to follow a certain theme, such

entrancepage 16 ‰


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Wedding reception food: Make the right choicesBy MetroCreative

Which dinner service is right for your wedding?

Weddings are typically the culmination of months of careful planning. After a couple has officially tied the knot, a celebration typically follows. Although music and mingling are integral to a wedding reception, the meal is often the central component of the party.

Couples have options when choosing dinner service for their weddings, and some need not serve dinner at all. An early wedding may consist of a brunch or some passed appetizers, while some couples opt for a cocktail party in lieu of a dinner party. Still, some weddings feature only desserts.

But guests attending more traditional weddings expect to dine at the receptions that follow such affairs. Buffet service and a sit-down dinner are the most popular choices for wedding meals, and each has its advantages and disadvantages.

Choosing the dinner service that works best for your wedding may involve a careful comparison of the various offerings and keeping your budget and guests' comfort in mind.

Sit-down dinner

A sit-down dinner consists of several courses of plated food served by a waitstaff. Guests never have to leave their seats, and sit-down service is usually in line with a formal reception. Some food offerings at sit-down dinners tend to be fancy and presented in a manner that is appealing both to the eye and the palate.

There are several advantages to sit-down meals. Guests can focus entirely on enjoying themselves and conversing with fellow guests rather than getting up to seek out food, and those with mobility issues do not have to worry about maneuvering to a buffet station or trying to balance food.

Guests get top-notch treatment and will have a waitstaff on call to fill their every need, which can make an affair more memorable for all in attendance. But sit-down dinners are typically more expensive as well.

Guests are generally given several choices for the main course,

and that could mean ordering extra food and preparing it to be ready for guests' selections. Serving meals may take longer, and sometimes meals may not arrive hot to the table. Guests may be limited to certain food choices, and portion sizes may not be what guests were hoping for. Sitting idle for a while can affect the mood of the reception and lead to boredom.

Buffet service

A buffet-style dinner is served from a long dais table that holds several chafing dishes full of food. Wedding guests will rise from their seats and make their way to the buffet stations, where they'll be able to serve themselves or be served by staff manning the stations.

Buffets present an array of foods that cater to the various dietary needs of guests. Those at the reception can sample several different foods rather than be restricted to one main course. Guests can limit portion sizes or sometimes return for second helpings. Buffets are generally less formal and allow

Couples are getting creative with their food and beverage offerings at their weddings. Guests never know which culinary wonders they will encounter as they gather to wish the newlyweds well.

Hot trends in wedding cuisineOnce a couple has officially tied the knot, the newly recognized man and wife and all of their guests will retire to a party room where they can mingle, dance and enjoy a good meal. In the past, standard fare like prime rib and roasted chicken dominated wedding menus.

But today's weddings cater to people of various culinary tastes, and couples and their guests can expect more upscale and creative cuisine to be rolled out for wedding receptions. The following are a handful of the more popular trends with regard to wedding cuisine.

Miniature bites

Many people say good things come in small packages, and when it comes to miniature versions of favorite foods, they may be right. Instead of large meals that fill guests up fast, they can munch on smaller bites of their favorite dishes. How about a piece of meatloaf topped with whipped mashed potatoes? A cherry tomato with a small piece of mozzarella cheese makes a mini caprese salad. Turning favorite foods into bite-sized adventures can add a touch of whimsy to the reception.

Breakfast for dinner

Some couples are circumventing high price tags for their weddings by choosing to hold the festivities at less expensive times of day. Brunch-themed weddings are a big hit with those who would much rather dine on a stack of pancakes than a dish of pasta. Omelet stations, croissants and a bevy of other breakfast table fare can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Cuisinepage 14 ‰

Foodpage 14 ‰


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A review of bridal bouquetsBy Tresa EricksonFeature Writer

Brides have been carrying bouquets for hundreds of years. In ancient times, bridal bouquets generally consisted of garlic, herbs and spices to keep evil spirits away. By Victorian times, fresh f lowers had replaced the garlic, herbs and spices, and many of these f lowers carried special meanings, like innocence, faith and love. Floriography, the language of f lowers, continues to this day, with some brides researching f lower meanings and basing t heir bouquet selections on those meanings. Floriography isn’t the only trend in bridal bouquets. There are many others. Here is a brief review.

Bridal bouquets are traditionally pale in color, but today’s brides are branching out and choosing bolder colors, like burgundy, red and purple. Bouquet color schemes can be monochromatic—all shades of purple, for example—or complementary. With bouquets getting brighter, they have become a real feature in wedding photography, in particular black and white photography w ith

selective coloring.

Roses remain a bridal bouquet standard, but ot her f lowers a re sta r t i ng to make their way into the mix. Daisies, hydrangeas, lilies, peonies and tulips are popular choices, as are orchids. Many brides, in fact, are asking for more tropical flowers in their bouquets, either because of their theme or for a unique twist.

While cascades of flowers were once the norm in bridal bouquets, many brides today are opting to take a simpler route. Hand-tied bouquets are a popular choice. Wit h t he f lowers gat hered together and wrapped in ribbon, the bouquets are easier to handle and have a contemporary look to them.

While today’s bridal bouquets might be somewhat simpler in design, brides can still add some dazzle to them with beads, crystals, feathers, pearls, sequins and other accessories. Brides with themed weddings can take it a step further and incorporate extra special touches into their bouquets, like miniature seashells, pinecones or butterf l ies. Bouquets

featuring vintage brooches are also becoming popular.

Bridal bouquets can run the gamut from the traditional all-white hand-tied rose bouquet drenched in crystals to the sassy gold, red and purple bouquet cuffed by feathers. It is up to the bride how she wants her bouquet to be. Brides should check out some samples, talk to their florist and select a bouquet design that speaks to them.

How to preserve weddingbouquets and arrangementsBy MetroCreative

A bride's gown may garner its share of attention come her wedding day, but floral arrangements also tend to impress guests. Fresh f lowers make a wedding and the ensuing reception more inviting and appealing. According to The Knot.com, couples can expect to spend 8 percent of their wedding budget on flowers.

For the average wedding, that equates to roughly $2,000 for various arrangements and bouquets. That can be a considerable expense for fragile flowers with a shelf life of only a day or two.

But instead of tossing beautiful bouquets and other flowers into the garbage once the wedding day has come and gone, couples can employ various methods to preserve those impressive displays for years to come.

Air dryingOne of the easiest ways to preserve f lowers is to dry them out. This is best done by hanging blooms upside down so

Instead of tossing beautiful bouquets and other flowers into the garbage once the wedding day has come and gone, couples can employ various methods to preserve those impressive displays for years to come.

preservepage 12 ‰


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10 questions to ask before hiring your wedding photographerBy Brandpoint

Some moments are simply too important to trust to a camera phone.

Your wedding will be one of the most memorable times of your life and no one can capt u re it bet ter t ha n a professional photographer. So how do you f i nd t he right one? As you begin the interview process, here are 10 quest ions to help you determine if you've found the best photographer for your wedding.

1. Does the photographer have a gallery of wedding images you can review?

Re v ie w i n g s a mple w or k a l l o w s y o u t o s e e t h e photog rapher's st reng t hs

and weaknesses - don't fool yourself, every photographer has them. You'll also be able to get an idea of their style. Are they formal with an eye for the perfect picture or do they love to capture the hidden moments when no one is looking? Look for images that you can see yourself in. Think of three words that describe you and share those w ith your photographer. Ever y photographer has a style and reviewing their gallery can help you determine if theirs is right for you.

2. What is the photographer's working style?

Some photog raphers a re orderly a nd operate l i ke wedding planners. Others prefer to sit back and let the

events of the wedding unfold. It's important that you find someone who can understand and meet your expectations. Discuss this ahead of time and ask away, so that you understa nd how wel l t he photographer's working style matches your own.

3. Is the photographer available for an engagement session?

An engagement session does more than provide you with priceless images toget her before you get married. It's also your first opportunity to work with your photographer and develop a relationship t hat w i l l a l low you to be completely at ease on your big day. Use this session to confirm if the photographer

is indeed the right person to capture your wedding.

4. Will the photographer create a detailed shot list?

T h is l i st w i l l en su re no

Your wedding will be one of the most memorable times of your life and no one can capture it better than a professional photographer.

photographerpage 12 ‰


Once upon a barrel:

A wedding with vintage farmer's market freshnessBy Donna RousseauFeature Writer

A barrel inspired the vintage farmer’s market mood for Erik and Danielle Rousseau’s

late August wedding. They are my son a nd daug hter-i n-law. A sentimenta l reminder of her grandfather and his potato farm in northern Maine, the barrel became the couple’s cake stand. From that beginning, their appreciation for simplicity defined the day from ceremony to reception.

The Hebron Baptist Church in Hebron was selected for t heir ceremony. Like the barrel, the church held family history. Erik and his siblings, as well as Danielle’s sister, attended chapel there during their years as Hebron Academy students.

On the wedding day, sprays of w i ldf lowers, compliments of a parishioner’s garden, and urns spilling with white blooms and ivy graced the church entrance. The doors were appointed with wreaths of birch tree rounds detailed with Queen Anne’s Lace.

Inside, sta ined-g lass w indows dressed the country church for the occasion. In lieu of programs, a homemade, oversized chalkboard, framed with twigs, r ibbon and dried flowers, was displayed in the foyer. The maid of honor, an artist, lettered the board with a welcoming message, listing the bridal party and officiant names. “Everyone said it was so beautiful it could be art,” said Danielle.

The intimacy of the church wrapped itself around us. It was a true family affair with little children scooting nearer to the front to see what I am sure seemed a fairy tale. One eager guest was clearly heard saying, “So this is what real love looks like,” then asking, “Has he kissed her yet?”

“It was perfect," said Erik. “We were so nervous and that just provided a moment of much needed levity.”

For the Martindale Country Club reception, Erik and Danielle gave

their blessings to the moms, myself and Marie, to work their magic. They capitalized on end-of-season deals on f lowering baskets in soft pink and white for the porches.

Parked at the entrance, an antique t r ic ycle boa ste d a ba sket of hydrangeas and a decoupage sign reading, "Just Married.”

Inside t he lobby, g uests were greeted w it h a complimentar y apple cider reception. A nearby table featured trellises in planters of purple mums. Fastened to the trellises with miniature clothes pins were the table assignments.

I n stead of a photo boot h, a “wedding” tree couple, designed by local artist Laurie Babin, welcomed guests. The sculptures donned vintage wedding attire, the bride in a vintage satin gown and my wedding veil. Guests were invited to have pictures taken with the “couple” to mark the occasion.

F l o r a l s w e r e k e p t c o u n t r y-f r e s h . O r n a m e n t a l c a b b a g e nestled among pink roses, violet delphinium, and white hydrangea for the bride’s bouquet. Bridesmaids c a r r ied a i r y spr ay s of v iolet delphinium. The reception tables, laid with vintage linen, displayed center pieces of stacked wood sl ices topped w ith ornamental cabbages of dark green and pink.

Bottles holding individual blooms m i r ror i ng t he br ida l bouquet prov ided color accent . Guest favors, small succulents planted by Danielle and her MOH, each personalized with a handwritten thank-you tag, provided a finishing touch.

The head table was embellished for sparkle and fullness with pink Depression glass filled with flowers from my and Erik's aunt’s gardens.

“Danielle wanted every table to look a little different and we succeeded in creating that look for her,” said Marie.

The stair landing, adorned with a length of white voile and white paper lanterns, featured the wedding chalkboard transported from the church, antique shutters and live pine trees, transplanted by Marie.

A sentimental reminder of her grandfather and his potato farm in Northern Maine, the barrel, became the couple’s cake stand.

Kathryn Williams photosDanielle and Erik

Inside the lobby, guests were greeted with a complimentary apple cider reception; a nearby table featured trellises in planters of purple mums; fastened to the trellises with miniature clothes pins were the table assignments.

Above left: Parked at the entrance to the reception, an antique tricycle boasted a basket of hydrangeas and a decoupage sign reading, ”Just Married.”

Cover photoby Kathryn Williams

Cover Designby Leo Baillargeon

Vintagepage 18 ‰


A wedding with individuality and lifestyleBy Jackie Rybeck Feature Writer

While traditional weddings will always have a place i n ou r he a r t s , t he r e

is somet h i ng specia l about a wedding that has unique touches symbolizing the personalities and love shared by the bride and groom.

And when Belinda and Mike Garon, of Minot, beca me engaged in October 2013, that’s exactly what they wished for on their special day.

“We wanted our wedding to reflect our individuality and lifestyle,” said Belinda. “It was important to us for our wedding to be comfortable and not too formal, but still beautiful and elegant. We wanted it to include elements of nature with f lowers, butterflies, stones, and candlelight and we wanted our guests to not only be spectators at our wedding, but to a lso be included in the celebration of our love.”

Chockfull of creativity, Belinda pulled off a wedding that was as beautiful and charming as the bride.

The venue they chose was the barn at Hardy Farm in Fryeburg, where the interior had been white-washed and renovated, complete with a mezzanine that overlooked the entire barn. The grounds were overf low ing w it h vast gardens i n f u l l bloom, i nclud i ng blue coneflowers and honeysuckle and a path that gave way to a large gazebo perfect for photo taking.

The bride wore a white, strapless gown with a simple, yet stunning tiara and carried f lowers of white peonies, roses and baby’s breath with accents of pink peonies and astilbe. The guys wore tuxes; Mike’s tie and vest were platinum, the groomsmen’s attire matched the bridesmaid’s dresses.

Usi ng a spec t r u m of rad ia nt summer colors, the July 2, late-afternoon wedding was highlighted with the colors of eggplant, pink, silver and white.

“The colors were perfect,” said Belinda. “My bridesmaids actually picked the color eggplant for their

dresses and, between that, the barn and gardens, it really set the tone for the wedding.”

As the bride wa lked dow n the aisle, hundreds of white butterflies were hung from the beams giving the appearance that they were f luttering throughout the entire ceremony to give their blessings.

A beautiful chandelier hung from the ceiling as well as candles placed throughout giving a pleasant glow to t he atmosphere a nd white-washed letters spelling Garon were placed above the barn door. Three-dimensional f lowers were placed around the arched mirrors bringing even more summer into the barn.

During t he ser v ice t he g uests were included in a ring-warming ceremony, which signif ies how ever yone around the bride and groom, in some way, had influenced

their lives.

“Our wedding bands were t ied toget her a nd d i splaye d i n a beautiful, jewelry box embellished with a butterfly,” said Belinda. “The box was passed to the 90 guests in attendance to hold, make a wish or say a prayer. It made everyone feel a part of the ceremony.”

The reception was also held in the barn with centerpieces of white branches in vases with white and gray stones. Belinda and Mike had a sweetheart table complete with a tulle tablecloth with lights shimmering through its skirting.

The couple decided to not have a sit-down or buffet-style meal.

“We had the caterer pass out hor d’oeuvres and set up food stations,” explained Belinda. “Guests were able to linger, sit where they desired and eat when and what they wanted. Many slipped up to the mezzanine and enjoyed sitting and having quiet conversation. It really worked out well.”

One great conversational piece was the “Visitor” sign that was tucked into one of the nearby gardens.

“It looked much like the famous Maine signpost with local towns

and mileages,” said Mike. “But ours had the names of towns and miles that people traveled to come to our wedding.”

The couple had a butterf ly release and guests were given wedding favors of f lower seed paper shaped like butterflies, which were hanging on branches near the door.

Another distinctive idea was having a mid-week wedding.

The wedding ceremony included a ring-warming ceremony.

Butterflies hung overhead fluttered as the Garons danced.

The wedding ceremony of Belinda and Mike Garon was held in the barn at Hardy Farm in Fryeburg.

Jill Piper photosDuring the wedding ceremony, the couple released some butterflies.

Lifestylepage 17 ‰


important photo is missed during the commotion and excitement of the big day. You should be able to create that list together, add to the list leading up to the day and have a copy of that list the day of. Take an honest look at what images really matter and fill your photographer in on situations he or she might need to be aware of in order to prevent awkward moments, and to ensure that he or she

can get the shots that matter most.

5. What kind of lighting will be used?

W h e t h e r y o u h a v e a n indoor or outdoor wedding, you'l l wa nt to ma ke sure y o u r p h o t o g r a p h e r h a s professional grade lighting equipment to del iver t he i m a g e s y o u r w e d d i n g deserves.

6. Does the photographer have backup equipment?

You've prepared contingency plans for every other aspect

o f y o u r w e d d i n g ; y o u r photog r a pher s hou ld a s wel l . A t r ue professiona l photog rapher won't m iss your perfect shot because of a technology issue. He or she will always bring one or two backup cameras, lenses, f lashes, additional lighting equipment, extra memor y cards, and batteries.

7. Does the photographer have liability insurance?

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drying. Secure f lowers in sma l l bundles and hang f rom a n out-of-t he-way spot in a cool, dr y area. The f lowers may need to remain hanging for up to three weeks before they are completely dried out. After which, gently remove the flowers and arrange them in a vase or another container. Other w ise, reassemble a bouquet how it was and carefully display.

PressingPressing is another way to preser ve f lora l bouquets and arrangements. To press f lowers, f ind a few heav y books to stack or another weighted object. Place the flowers between parchment paper or waxed paper and lay the heavy items on top. You also can place the f lowers in t issue paper bet ween the pages of a book so they are not jostled. Leave the blooms for a week or two and then check on them before putting them in a shadow box or photo frame.

Chemical dryingSilica gel, borax and regular sand can be used to dr y a nd preser ve f lowers as well. These can be handy for people who desire to preserve an entire bouquet as-is. Silica gel is a desiccant commonly found in small p a c k e t s i n s ide of ne w shoes and purses. It a lso can be purchased at home improvement retailers and is used to dr y out musty basements and other areas. Fill a deep container halfway with the silica gel or other drying material.

Put in the bouquet and then

gently add more product to the top of the flowers so they are completely submerged. Place a snug cover over the top of the container and let everything sit for about a week. Slowly the moisture will be absorbed from the flowers. Some people choose to spray dried f lowers with a sea la nt to keep t hem looking nice longer. An all-purpose craft spray might work. You also can ask for recommendations from the f lorist who handled your a r ra ngements, a nd t hat f lorist may even preserve the f lowers for you for an additional fee.

preservefrom page 8

photographerfrom page 9

photographerpage 13 ‰


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photographerfrom page 12

Accidents happen at weddings and if one of your guests trips over your photog rapher's light stand, it's good to know you both are protected. Your reception venue may even ask the photographer to submit a certificate of liability ahead of time.

8. Will there be one photographer or two?

A second shooter increases the probability that no shot wil l be missed, especial ly

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9. What will happen to the images after your wedding?

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A catering company or the banquet manager at a reception site can work with couples as they decide if a buffet or sit-down dinner is the best option for their wedding receptions.

guests to mingle more readily.

But buffet-style meals may produce long lines as guests pick and choose their meals. While experienced catering managers and reception site staff should have plans in place to create a free-flow of guests to the buffet stations, there will be a first and a last table called to eat, and guests on the tail end of the service may be stuck with whatever

is lef t over i f food is not adequately restocked.

In an effort to accommodate ever yone, extra food may be cooked for buffet-style dinners, which can be costly and wasteful. In addition, guests are asked to do more work, as they need to get up and retrieve their own food.

A c at er i ng c ompa ny or the banquet manager at a reception site can work with couples as they decide if a buffet or sit-down dinner is the best option for their wedding receptions.

Dim sum

Di m su m a l lows g uests to sample different foods without filling up. Carts of dumplings and other small plates of appetizers can be wheeled around so everyone can choose what they want and what they want to avoid. G ou r met c om for t food People love familiar comfort foods, but now gourmet comfort foods are shaking up wedd i ng recept ions. Mac-and-cheese with gouda and brie or chicken pot pie with a puff-pastry crust are a few offerings that can add g la mou r to dow n-home cooking.

Family style

R u s t i c a n d i n f o r m a l weddings have grown in popu la r it y. Rat her t ha n food being brought to the guests or participants lining up in buffet lines, family-style dining allows guests to share conversation and pass the peas at the same time. Larger, rectangular tables allow more guests to sit with one another and

serve themselves food from community plates located in the center of the tables.

Food with a show

Instead of passed foods or buffet stations, couples are opting to make food an experience for guests. An oyster bar with a chef serving fresh seafood or a dessert master whipping up flambe is a feast for the eyes and mouth.

Interesting buffet stationsKeep guests on their toes with various meal stations. A bou nt i f u l d i splay of art isana l cheeses, f ruits a n d br e a d s w i l l b e a c h e e s e l o v e r 's d r e a m . These stations also can be appet i z i ng foca l poi nts around the room and ensure all guests get a bite of what they like best.

Food and beverage pairingsFo o d-f or w a r d w e dd i n g couples are offering guests mouthwatering appetizers matched with a cocktail. A slider and a craft beer or a dumpling and a shot of saki

are examples of this trend.

Nontraditional "fake" cakesInstead of a multi-tiered cake or the cupcake fad that is starting to f izzle, couples are now opting for something new. Desserts t hat m i m ic t he look of cake, but aren't quite that combi nat ion of sponge and frosting are trending. Crepes, pies, cookies, and doughnuts are acceptable a nd ca n add a creat ive spark to the cake-cutting ceremony. W hen offered along with dessert stations, guests can certainly get their fill of sweet delights.

Vegan and gluten-free optionsChances are one or more p e o p l e a t t e n d i n g t h e recept ion w i l l be on a restricted diet. Rather than relegate t hese g uests to

dining on side dishes and patchwork meals, certain couples are building entire offerings around vegan and gluten-free foods.

Couples are getting creative with their food and beverage offerings at their weddings. Guests never know which culinary wonders they will encounter as they gather to wish the newlyweds well.

Foodfrom page 7

Cuisinefrom page 7


Laura and Chad Schrepper, of Tu r ner, a lso chose a r u st ic-t heme d we dd i ng. They decided on The Maine Wedding Barn and Event Center at Farview Farm in Minot for their venue, as it complemented the v ision they had for their Sept. 20, 2014 ceremony.

“From the very beginning, we knew we wanted something that people would walk away from thinking ‘Wow, that was amazing’,” Schrepper said.

She also said their choice of a barn wedding stemmed from wanting to reflect their persona l it y as a couple, as wel l as honor bot h of their families. Of course, Schrepper said she was able to give things her personal touch by incorporating gold and glitter.

A sh ley Steven s a nd her wife, Angie, of Auburn, were married Oct. 4, 2014. They chose The Great Outdoors as their venue, because it complemented their country-themed, fall wedding.

“We knew we wanted to get married in the fall in a lodge-type setting and had dreams of pumpkins, mason jars, burlap and beautiful fa l l colors,” said Stevens.

And Pinterest has it!

Even if four out of the last five weddings you went to took place in a barn, the odds are they were as unique as the couple tieing the knot. One of the best ways to find ideas is to search the web. In the interest of bringing out their couple personalities, these ladies immediately took to none other than Pinterest for inspiration and ideas.

T h e B e r n i e r s d i d t h e sa me. W it h t he help of her f r iend, Ber n ier sa id t hey ha ndcra f ted a l l t he boutonnieres, bouquets, and centerpieces. They also used lots of crates, Mason jars, and burlap tied with the navy blue

and yellow wedding colors.

“Pinterest is an amazing tool for anyone who is planning a wedding,” Bernier explained. “You can find every theme, color scheme, a nd sma l l detail of a wedding there.”

The Schreppers also used Pinterest. Creating a unique theme that was modern yet st i l l t radit iona l, a nd not having it look "like a DIY nightmare" was something Sch repper sa id w a s her biggest challenge.

“I don't know what bride doesn't use Pinterest,” said Schrepper. “It was a love-hate relationship, but my wedding party, and our mothers were so helpful.”

Pinterest had some fa l l-themed ideas, Stevens said, and a lot of other ideas that she made to fit the wedding theme. In the weeks before their big day, Stevens said she, her wife, and some of the wedding party got together for "wedding pa rt y cra f t days," making ever ything rather than buying it.

“ T he pr ic e of w e dd i n g d e c o r a t i o n s c a n b e outrageous, and we were very lucky to have had crafty people in our wedding party,”

said Stevens. “Some of my favorites ended up being our homemade burlap signs that read things like ‘just hitched’ and ‘falling in love’.”

Families, photos, and all the best things

T he Sch reppers a nd t he Stevens both chose to write their ow n wedding vows, for something personal and from their heart. By including pieces of treasured poetry, family and friends in the ceremony, each couple was able to focus on the aspects of their relationship that they wanted to show through on their special day, making it a day they could treasure forever.

Bernier recited a reading of her ow n words, a long with some of her favorite Gart h Brooks’ ly r ics, but her husband went about his reading a different way.

“My hu sba nd a sked my students to tel l him what he should say to me on our w e dd i n g d a y,” B e r n ie r, who worked at Elm Street School in Mechanic Falls, explained, adding that he had done this without her knowledge, adding poetry

by E.E. Cummings to create a memory Bernier said she will cherish forever.

D i s p l a y s o f p h o t o s t o emphasize the love and unity in their lives, was another thing each of these couples had in common. Of course like the other similarities, they tailored them to express their own, unique union.

“We honored our parents' marriages with their wedding day photos,” said Schrepper.

For a v intage touch, t he Stevens had two old windows d i spl aye d on t hei r g i f t t able. One w i ndow w a s decorated with pictures of Stevens grow ing up, and

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i dofrom page 4

Submitted photo Fifteen-month-old flower girl Klaire Schrepper runs into her father Chad's arms.

i dopage 16 ‰

the other had pictures of her wife, Angie, throughout childhood. A piece of twine was strung between the two windows boasting photos of the two of them, secured with old fashion clothespins.

The Berniers' repurposed, vintage window frames held photos of their parents and grandparents, a symbol, she said of the longevity, love and commitment in their lives.

“We wanted to display that special aspect of our family a nd celebrate t hat love,” Bernier explained.

Every part of the Stevens’ ceremony a nd recept ion

was a unique ref lection of the couple, right down to the “go big or go home wedding party of 16” attendants, said Stevens.

“We didn't use traditional w e d d i n g m u s i c ,” s a i d Stevens.

Instead, the couple chose songs with lyrics that meant somet h i ng to t hem, a nd represented the love they share. For her walk down the aisle, Stevens chose "Who I Am with You" by Chris Young.

“I will never forget walking down the aisle, seeing Angie waiting for me at the end with tears rolling down her face, while the song played."

Bernier and her husband asked her eldest brother, Benjamin Martin, to officiate because he is known to be well spoken. He became a notary just for the occasion. A nd her m idd le brot her

who was on deployment in Afghanistan, sent a touching video to the couple. They included their families in as much of the ceremony as they could.

“Ou r wedd i ng ceremony was very personal,” Bernier shared. “We had our families each light a candle, that in turn my husband and I used to light a larger candle.”

A good friend, who was just four weeks away from having a liver transplant, wed the Stevens.

“It was such a heartwarming touch to have him there with us, and able to marry us.”

Every so often, the flower girl is the most important part of the entire day, particularly if she is the daughter of the bride and groom. Schrepper’s 15 -mont h- old d au g hter, K la ire, wa lked dow n t he aisle, and ran straight into

her father’s arms, sealing the commitment of love for this family.

“It was the cutest thing,” said Schrepper.

As well as having her sister read The Blessing of t he H a nd s , S c h r e pp e r a l s o decided to include long-held traditions like toasts, a dollar dance, and of course, a dance with her father.

“You will never have a dance w ith your father on your wedding day again -- enjoy the traditions.”

Words of advice from the newlyweds

“My biggest piece of advice w ou ld b e to r emem b er that it’s your special day,” shared Bernier. “Friends and family will overwhelm with thoughts, advice and ideas, but stick true to your desires.”

“Don't stress; it’s not worth it,” Stevens adv ised. “No m a t t e r w h e r e y o u g e t married, how it’s decorated, or who shows up, you are marrying your best friend, and love of your life. At the end of the day, that is all that matters.”


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Submitted PhotoAshley and Angie Stevens dance-walking Hollywood movie-style.

i dofrom page 15

as "Star Wars" or "Mission Impossible," coordinate in

advance with a deejay or band members. Talk about what, if any, props you plan to use and the type of music that will be playing.

I f e n t r a n c e s i n v o l v e choreography, be certa in to practice in advance of the wedding so everything will work out well and look professional. However, even stunts that go awry can be entertaining and funny for guests.

L o w-k e y e n t r a n c e s a r e acceptable, too. Couples who aren't into much fanfare should not feel pressured to make an entrance with a dance routine or to have any stunning visual effects. If you want a low-key introduction, arrange for such an entrance w ith the emcee. Wedding entrances are what a couple ma kes of them, and they ca n r un t he ga mut f rom traditional introductions to theatrical skits and dance routines.

entrancefrom page 6

“Take opinions with a grain of salt. There will definitely be moments when your head is spinning,” said Schrepper. “At

the end of it all you are going to wake up, and hopefully think, ‘W hat a blast’ and ‘We’re married!’”

“The Hardy Farm was my dream wedding location, but it was booked on every weekend,” sighed the bride. “They suggested a mid-week wedding, which many vendors offer discounts for and we explored the option. We looked into the week of the [July] Fourth, since many people are on vacation anyway. We spoke to close friends and family members and it was going to work.”

“It made for something different,” added Mike. “But it also gave us a chance, before the wedding to spend time with people who had come from out of town.”

Weather did play quite a role in the Garons' day, but with a bit of pre-planning and a great attitude, this couple embraced the rain showers that fell during the ceremony.

“It was a beautiful, warm sunny day ... until an hour before the ceremony,” said Mike.

“After all those months of planning!” added Belinda. “We had to make a last-minute decision to bring everything inside, but we had discussed the possibility at rehearsal. Fortunately we chose a location that was beautiful inside and out, and with staff and a caterer that had dealt with this before, made it much easier for us to be flexible. Instead of the gazebo, the wedding was inside the barn and we couldn't release butterflies to the perfect song at the carefully selected moment in the ceremony, but there was no point in getting upset over it.”

The wedding couple believes it turned out better than planned.

“Although it poured, it thundered and my hair went completely f lat it really ended up being perfect inside. We also had to dodge rain drops


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Jill Piper photosThe wedding included the bright colors of summer.

Mike and Belinda needed an umbrella to pose for outdoor photos but kept a great attitude.

Lifestylefrom page 11

Cover photoby Jill Piper Photos

for the few outdoor pictures we were able to take," said Belinda.

"But, it was our wedding day ... rain or shine,” said Mike. “And it was beautiful.”


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Vintage vignettes were set throughout the reception to create interest.Combining flowers and photos added a unique touch to the tables.

Florals were kept country-fresh. Ornamental cabbage nestled among pink roses, violet delphinium, and white hydrangea for the bride’s bouquet.

Vintage vignettes were set throughout the reception to create interest. The stair la nding, ador ned w it h a length of white voile and w h i t e p a p e r l a n t e r n s , f e a t u r e d t h e w e d d i n g cha l k boa rd t r a n spor te d from the church, antique shutters and live pine trees, transplanted by Marie.

The wedding cake vignette

was the highlight. A l ive, white hydrangea “memory” tree provided backdrop; from its branches hung antique lockets w ith photographs of the bride and groom’s g r a n d p a r e nt s w h o h a d passed. In the forefront was the potato barrel, laid with white lace, cradling a white wedding cake designed to look like a flower unfurling its petals.

Stacks of weathered apple crates set with vintage white pitchers for the bridesmaids’

bouquets were arranged to create a cozy space for the cake cutting. Nearby, an old capta in’s t r u n k received wedding gifts under a ceiling of intricately-detailed white star lanterns.

A s a la st m i nute deta i l, throughout the venue were silver frames of famous love quotes a nd poems. Bot h Er i k a nd Da n iel le enjoy reading and I thought the frames would lend a personal touch. God is in the details; everywhere were surprises that we hoped would impart our families’ joy to the guests.

At the evening’s end, the Martindale staff said they had seen many receptions but Erik and Danielle’s was

remarkably beautiful, not only for the decorations but for the genuine happiness of the guests. From children f i l l ing the dance f loor to a family prank involv ing an “abducted” bride and a “booty dance” performed by the groom for a ransom, it was old-fashioned fun.

The photographer, Katherine Williams, commented more than once what a joy it was to witness such a genuine love between two people. On her website, she captured the mood through one of the frames quoting “Winnie-the-Pooh.”

“If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you.” For Erik and Danielle, it’s that simple.

Vintagefrom page 10

Front and center are Jackson and Sophie Rousseau, cousins of the groom; on the pew, from left: Guy and Dorothy Rousseau and Gladys Keene -- all grandparents of the groom.


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When you choose Saddleback as your wedding venue, we will help you plan every

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wedding guide spring 2015

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