Picnic Wedding Reception Supply List & Costs

Here is Part 2 of a Summer's Most Unconventional Wedding Reception

Supplies:
For 6-10 people:
-1 picnic basket
-1 water pitcher
-6 to 10 plates
-6 to 10 drinking glasses
-Paper napkins, forks
-Tablecloth or blanket (blankets for younger guests who may want to sit on the grass)

If reusable plates and glasses are too expensive, use paper! Another way to cut costs is to just buy reusable items for the bridal party and parents' tables/baskets. Remember, though--if the wind picks up, your disposable items will go flying! Tablecloths can vary greatly on price. You may run into a sale and be able to cover each table for $5. Another option is to look for inexpensive fabric--$1.00/yard. Measure the tables before you search!

Talk to your favorite grocery store deli or restaurant about your food needs. This is a great job for your mother-in-law! An experienced grocery shopper may have more success getting a good deal on food!

Menu:
For each basket:
-Croissant Sandwiches
-Potato salad
-Fruit salad or watermelon slices

These are ideas, but work with food you like (you'll be eating the leftovers!) and any specials the deli can offer. To make an easier reception, use food that stores at the same temperature. Depending on the facilities at the park and how many volunteers you have, you could also serve chicken and corn on the cob.

To make the plain plastic containers from the deli more exciting--use your computer to make your own label. Bride & Groom's Passion Potato Salad, enjoy on July 31, 2008. Get creative!

Be sure to include serving spoons in the baskets! You can probably scrounge up enough serving spoons from the kitchens of the moms.

Guest's Perspective:
Guests will arrive at the park and be directed to a table. Assigned seating is recommended! Picnic baskets and water pitchers will be delivered to each table. Guests will take it from there! You can assign one person at each table to be the "server." He/She will open the basket, hand out the plates, forks, napkins, cups and... food!

The bride and groom can put written instructions inside the basket, announce over the music/sound system, or send pre-designated volunteers to the tables to give any further direction that may be needed.

Guests will be put at ease right away since they get to participate in serving the meal, and they don't have to WAIT in line to eat!

You can include a bottle of wine and an assortment of sodas in the baskets if water is not quenching enough. Iced tea or lemonade, in place of water, is another option. Be sure to have ice water on hand, though, for guests on special diets.

Put a large ziploc bag full of ice at the top of each basket to keep food cool while guests are seated. Ice can be put into the guests' cups to avoid giant bags of water at the end of the day.

Dessert
This is the fun part! Pie or ice cream? (Let's face it--your guests are probably sick of wedding cake, and it really doesn't fit on a sunny day.)

Put a whole pie in each basket, along with a knife and plastic serving spatula. These can be homemade pies or purchased from the store. Differing flavors may promote movement amongst the guests. :)

Set up an ice cream bar, manned by the bride and groom. This way everyone will get a chance to say hi to the new couple. Offer different ice cream choices that the bride and groom scoop out into cones when the guests are ready for dessert.

Visiting Guests
If ice cream scooping is too much work, the bride and groom can float around to each table while the guests eat.

Guests Mingling
By the time the meal is over each table will be feeling like family. Get help from your moms to figure out where to seat everyone. You can place matching relatives together. Bride's Aunt and Uncle and kids with Groom's Aunt and Uncle and kids. Or you can put complementing personalities together. Remember to put at least one friendly, outgoing person at each table!

Estimated Cost and Shopping List
If you are unable to stay within this budget for any item, look around! Borrow from moms and sisters. To make mismatched items more cohesive, tie a ribbon that matches the color of your wedding around it!

Supplies>> $340
$100 for 10 Picnic Baskets
$ 15 for 10 Water Pitchers
$ 75 for 100 Plates (buy on clearance!)
$ 75 for 100 Cups/Glasses
$ 25 for 200 Napkins (High-end white paper) and 200 Plastic Forks
$ 50 for 10 Table Coverings (butcher paper or tablecloths on clearance)

Food>> $460
$ 65 for 150 Croissants (try Costco or Sam's Club)
$ 75 for 12.5 pounds of Sliced Meat (assortment of Ham, Roast Beef, Turkey)
$ 75 for 12.5 pounds of Sliced Cheese (assortment of Cheddar, Pepperjack, Provolone)
$ 10 for 6 heads of lettuce
$ 50 for your choice of tomatoes, mayo, mustard, and other favorite sandwich toppings!
$ 70 for 7 Gallons of Potato Salad (homemade or deli)
$ 35 for 10 Small Watermelons
$ 80 for 7 Gallons of Fruit Salad (deli)

Dessert>> $60-95
$ 60 for 10 Pies
or
$ 65 for 13 Gallons of Ice Cream
$ 30 for 9 boxes of Ice Cream Cones (12/box)

Beverages>> $75-150
$ 50-100 for 10-20 Bottles of Wine
$ 25-50 for 100-200 Cans of Soda (watch for sales!)

This is a general framework to move you in the right direction for a memorable wedding reception. Put your personality into every piece of the event. This will give your guests something to talk about, and help distant relatives get to know you better! Some guests may even hide your wedding gift in the car, and replace it with a check--once they see what kinds of interests you and your sweetheart really have!

Interview with Marielle Hayes, Professional Photographer

Q.What tips would you give to brides and grooms to make their wedding day run more smoothly?

"I think that one of the most important pieces to making your wedding day run smoothly is to have a defined timeline. Let your photographer have that timeline so that he/she knows what is happening, where it is happening & at what time. Make sure you allot at least 30 minutes for family photographs & an hour for bride & groom photographs. This will give the photographer ample time for formal photographs without being rushed! Another way to make your wedding day run smoothly is to relax, kick off your shoes & have a blast! Your wedding is a fabulous party where all your guests are celebrating YOU!"

Q. How can a bride and groom maximize their time spent with a photographer?

"To get the most "bang for your buck," I always suggest to my clients that they opt for a "First Look," a time when they bride & groom see each other before the wedding ceremony begins. This way they can have a few intimate moments together before their ceremony, as well as have some extra time for more photographs. I've written an article about it HERE."

Q. How long have you been in the photography business?

"Four years. I started out working in a high end residential real estate company doing photography. I began to slowly begin taking photographs of all my friends, all my friends babies, and basically anything I could photograph. It turned into a full-time obsession. I eventually started photographing weddings & feel so blessed to have found a career doing something that I have always been very artistic & this has been a way for me to express who I am, a way for me to be an artist. I love more than anything-being with people & capturing their joy! There is no doubt in my mind that I just might have the best job on the planet!"

Q. How should and bride and groom dress for an Engagement Session?

"I think the way you dress for your engagement session should be a reflection of who YOU are. If you are an ultra fabulous fashionable couple who loves nothing more than getting dolled up for a night on the town, then break out your suit & little black dress & wear them! If you are the kind of couple who feels right at home in your comfy jeans on a ranch, then strap on your wranglers, sexy cowboy boots & let's go! If you are a fun & funky couple who loves vintage store shopping & VW love bugs, grab your sundress & faded jeans & get ready for an awesome shoot.

Can't decide what to wear? Most couples bring two changes of clothes & begin their session in casual clothes, then change it up a bit & wear something more fancy. Don't forget to accessorize, accessorize. A fabulous necklace (or three!), belt or amazing pair of shoes will always photograph well. Having your makeup professionally done will always make you look extra fab. Fake eyelashes? You betcha. I advise couples to not be too "matchy-matchy." Don't be afraid to think outside of the box, bust out some bold colors & wear items that make you feel gorgeous.

Basically I just want to showcase people in love BEING THEMSELVES. I want you to be comfortable, look fabulous & to most of all: HAVE FUN!"

Q.How should couples choose a photographer?

"I feel like there are two important pieces to finding "the perfect" photographer for you.

1. Find someone who you like as a person. It sounds silly, but it is such an important part of the puzzle. You will be spending more time with your photographer than you will with your florist, your caterers, your officiant, and maybe even your bridesmaids! Your wedding photographer will be there for the entire day, documenting the story of your wedding. That's why it's important to find someone you click with, someone who you enjoy being around because they will be with you for a huge chunk of your day."

2. "Find a photographer whose photographic style speaks to you. Take a look at the photographer's website & their blog which usually showcases their more recent work. Look for a photographer whose photographs you would want hanging on your wall. It's so important to find someone whose style you like from the beginning instead of asking a photographer if they can "do" a certain style of photography. Every photographer has their own style & it's your job to find the photographer whose style you love."

Q. What sets you apart from other photographers?

"The thing that sets me apart from other photographers is that I want your experience to be fun! I want you to look at your wedding photographs & smile because they capture the joy, the laughter & the emotion from your wedding. I love watching couples interact with each other- laughing & just being in love. I love documenting each & every single part of your wedding day-from your gorgeous shoes that you spent months trying to find, to the vintage hankie that you walked down the aisle with, to the laughter & joy that will come during your wedding day. Each part of your wedding is important & I try to document each & every single part of it. I try to stray from posed, stiff photographs. I want the photographs to be a reflection of you as a couple, that will be timeless in the years to come."

Wedding Party Responsibilities

Maid of Honor

She can be a sister or oldest and most loyal friend. She is the one who knows when to tell you what you want to hear, but, tactful enough to be brutally honest. The main duties of the MOH is to plan the shower & the bachelorette party. She is,also responsible for keeping the Bridesmaids' activities running smoothly. She may be asked to make a toast, both at the rehearsal dinner and the reception. She is your main go-to person for motivation/moral support. She serves as your witness at the signing of the marriage license.

Best Man

He is your Groom's brother or best and most loyal friend who will not party too hard after the rehearsal dinner- or the bachelor's party. In some parts of the country it is customary for the groom to choose his father to serve as his best man. The best man takes care of all bachelor events while providing support to the Groom. He is the Groom's main go-to man for motivation/moral support. He is responsible for getting the wedding rings to the chapel. He kicks off the toasts at both the rehearsal dinner and the reception. He is the second witness to the signing of the marriage license.

Bridesmaids

Negative, needy, drama-queens need not apply! Bridesmaids are fun friends who will still be in your life long after the dress. Bridesmaids will participate in all of the pre-wedding events. They are also required to dance 'The Macarana' at the reception, wear those 5" stilettos {with a smile}, run errands, attend tastings, site visits, bridal parties or other important or pertinent bridal meetings. These beauties are often escorted down the aisle on the arms of your Groomsmen, during the ceremony. Out of town bridesmaids can get a pass on most parties, but, they still must send a gift for the shower. They are not!:whipping posts, battering rams or emotionally void robots. That being said, remember that, foremost, they are your friends {no lecture intended}.

Groomsmen

This handsome posse is often comprised of old friends, cousins and, both, the Bride and Groom's brothers. These gentlemen can assist with seating invited guests during the ceremony, act as ushers at a very large weddings, run small pre-wedding errands on the wedding day and most popularly, escort your Bridesmaids down the aisle during the ceremony.

Flower Girl

This adorable little girl is usually between the ages of three and six years of age. Other than to look cute, her major role is to scatter all of those beautiful flowers along the aisle just before your grand entrance. If it makes her more comfortable, she can perform this duty with the Ring Bearer by her side. Word of caution:: as cute and adorable as this age group can be, remember that, their behavior can be both unpredictable and not easily directed. The most engaging child can suffer a bad case of stage fright when placed before one hundred strangers.

Ring Bearer

Criteria for the job: a boy who is young enough to wear knickers, saddle shoes and long knee socks. He is responsible for getting the 'ring' down the aisle. Also, if he or your precious Flower Girl are stage shy, he can perform his promenade down the aisle in her company.

So there you have it...YOUR PEOPLE!! and remember...don't let them see you sweat!

Guide to the Jewish Wedding

A traditional Jewish wedding is full of meaningful rituals, symbolizing the beauty of the relationship of husband and wife,
as well as their obligations to each other and to the Jewish people.

The following guide explains the beauty and joy of these the Jewish wedding traditions.

The Wedding Day

The dawning wedding day heralds the happiest and holiest day of one's life. This day is considered a personal Yom Kippur for the chatan (Hebrew for groom) and kallah (bride), for on this day all their past mistakes are forgiven as they merge into a new, complete soul.

As on Yom Kippur, both the chatan and kallah fast (in this case, from dawn until after the completion of the marriage ceremony). And at the ceremony, the chatan wears a kittel, the traditional white robe worn on Yom Kippur.

Kabbalat Panim

It is customary for the chatan and kallah not to see each other for one week preceding the wedding. This increases the anticipation and excitement of the event. Therefore, prior to the wedding ceremony, the chatan and kallah greet guests separately. This is called "Kabbalat Panim."

Jewish tradition likens the couple to a queen and king. The kallah will be seated on a "throne" to receive her guests, while the chatan is surrounded by guests who sing and toast him.

At this time there is an Ashkenazi tradition for the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom to stand together and break a plate. The reason is to show the seriousness of the commitment -- just as a plate can never be fully repaired, so too a broken relationship can never be fully repaired.

Badeken

Next comes the badeken, the veiling of the kallah by the chatan. The veil symbolizes the idea of modesty and conveys the lesson that however attractive physical appearances may be, the soul and character are paramount. It is reminiscent of Rebecca covering her face before marrying Isaac (Genesis ch. 29).

The Ashkenazi custom is that the chatan, accompanied by family and friends, proceeds to where the kallah is seated and places the veil over her face. This signals the groom's commitment to clothe and protect his wife.

Chuppah

The wedding ceremony takes place under the chuppah (canopy), a symbol of the home that the new couple will build together. It is open on all sides, just as Abraham and Sarah had their tent open all sides to welcome people in unconditional hospitality.

The Ashkenazi custom is to have the chuppah ceremony outside under the stars, as a sign of the blessing given by God to the patriarch Abraham, that his children shall be "as the stars of the heavens"(Genesis 15:5). Sefardim generally have the chuppah indoors.

The Ashkenazi custom is that the chatan and kallah wear no jewelry under the chuppah (marriage canopy). Their mutual commitment is based on who they are as people, not on any material possessions.

The chatan, followed by the kallah, are usually escorted to the chuppah by their respective sets of parents.

Under the chuppah, the Ashkenazi custom is that the kallah circles the chatan seven times. Just as the world was built in seven days, the kallah is figuratively building the walls of the couple's new world together. The number seven also symbolizes the wholeness and completeness that they cannot attain separately.

The kallah then settles at the chatan's right-hand side.

[At this point, the Sefardic custom is that the chatan says the blessing She'hecheyanu over a new tallit, and has in mind that the blessing also goes on the marriage. The tallit is then held by four young men over the head of the chatan and kallah.]

Blessings of Betrothal (Kiddushin)

Two cups of wine are used in the wedding ceremony. The first cup accompanies the betrothal blessings, recited by the rabbi. After these are recited, the couple drinks from the cup.

Wine, a symbol of joy in Jewish tradition, is associated with Kiddush, the sanctification prayer recited on Shabbat and festivals. Marriage, called Kiddushin, is the sanctification of a man and woman to each other.

Giving of the Ring

In Jewish law, a marriage becomes official when the chatan gives an object of value to the kallah. This is traditionally done with a ring. The ring should be made of plain gold, without blemishes or ornamentation (e.g. stones) -- just as it is hoped that the marriage will be one of simple beauty.

The chatan now takes the wedding ring in his hand, and in clear view of two witnesses, declares to the kallah, "Behold, you are betrothed unto me with this ring, according to the law of Moses and Israel." He then places the ring on the forefinger of the bride's right hand. According to Jewish law, this is the central moment of the wedding ceremony, and at this point the couple is fully married.

If the kallah also wants to give a ring to the chatan, this is only done afterwards, not under the chuppah. This is to prevent confusion as to what constitutes the actual marriage, as prescribed by the Torah.

Ketubah (Marriage Contract)

Now comes the reading of the ketubah (marriage contract) in the original Aramaic text. The ketubah outlines the chatan's various responsibilities -- to provide his wife with food, shelter and clothing, and to be attentive to her emotional needs. Protecting the rights of a Jewish wife is so important that the marriage may not be solemnized until the contract has been completed.

The document is signed by two witnesses, and has the standing of a legally binding agreement. The ketubah is the property of the kallah and she must have access to it throughout their marriage. It is often written amidst beautiful artwork, to be framed and displayed in the home.

The reading of the ketubah acts as a break between the first part of the ceremony -- Kiddushin ("betrothal"), and the latter part -- Nissuin ("marriage").

The Seven Blessings

The Seven Blessings (Sheva Brachot) are now recited over the second cup of wine. The theme of these blessings links the chatan and kallah to our faith in God as Creator of the world, Bestower of joy and love, and the ultimate Redeemer of our people.

These blessings are recited by the rabbi or other people that the families wish to honor.

At the conclusion of the seven blessings, the chatan and kallah again drink some of the wine.

Breaking the Glass

A glass is now placed on the floor, and the chatan shatters it with his foot. This serves as an expression of sadness at the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, and identifies the couple with the spiritual and national destiny of the Jewish people. A Jew, even at the moment of greatest rejoicing, is mindful of the Psalmist's injunction to "set Jerusalem above my highest joy."

In jest, some explain that this is the last time the groom gets to "put his foot down."

(In Israel, the Ashkenazi custom is that the glass is broken earlier, prior to the reading of the ketubah. Sefardim always break the glass at the end of the ceremony, even in Israel.)

This marks the conclusion of the ceremony. With shouts of "Mazel Tov," the chatan and kallah are then given an enthusiastic reception from the guests as they leave the chuppah together.

Yichud

The couple is then escorted to a private "yichud room" and left alone for a few minutes. These moments of seclusion signify their new status of living together as husband and wife.

Since the couple has been fasting since the morning, at this point they will also have something to eat.

[Sefardim do not have the custom of the yichud room; the chatan and kallah immediately proceed to the wedding hall after the chuppah ceremony.]

The Festive Meal (Seudah)

It is a mitzvah for guests to bring simcha (joy) to the chatan and the kallah on their wedding day. There is much music and dancing as the guests celebrate with the new couple; some guests entertain with feats of juggling and acrobatics.

After the meal, Birkat Hamazon (Grace After Meals) is recited, and the Sheva Brachot are repeated.

During the week following the wedding, it is customary for friends and relatives to host festive meals in honor of the chatan and kallah. This is called the week of Sheva Brachot, in reference to the blessings said at the conclusion of each of these festive meals.

If both the bride and groom are marrying for the second time, sheva brachot are recited only on the night of the wedding. The last bracha, Asher Bara, can be recited for three days.

What a beautiful ceremony and celebration! Mazel tov!

What Is A Rehearsal Dinner?

A rehearsal dinner is traditionally an informal meal for the wedding party after the wedding rehearsal the night before the ceremony. It’s a chance for the bride and groom to thank everyone involved in their upcoming big day as well as an opportunity for the wedding party to get better acquainted.

Customarily the groom’s parents host the rehearsal dinner and include the couple when planning it. Planning the event details and choosing the invitations can provide an opportunity during the wedding chaos for the bride to bond with her future parents-in-law. Typically the groom’s mother sends the rehearsal dinner invitations a few days after the wedding invitations have been mailed.

The rehearsal dinner can be as creative or casual as you choose. If you plan to invite more guests than just the wedding party but you you’re budget doesn’t allow for a full dinner, consider a picnic, barbeque or pot luck event. Remember, it’s all about taking a break, expressing gratitude, sharing a simple meal and toasting, of course!

Wedding Budget: Who Pays For What

Wedding etiquette is different from traditions that were established in the past. Traditionally, the bride’s family would pick up the tab but with the average cost of weddings skyrocketing, and more couples getting married later in life, they are sharing in the expenses. Forget the archaic rule that says certain people have to pay for certain things. Keep in mind that informal weddings are usually smaller (and therefore cheaper), and formal weddings tend to be larger (and therefore more expensive). The table below is a guideline to help everyone involved to share the expenses.

Service	Bride & Family	Groom & Family	Wedding Party
Rings	Groom’s wedding ring	Bride’s engagement ring Bride’s wedding ring
Prewedding Parties	Engagement party Bridesmaid luncheon	Rehearsal dinner	Bridal Shower Bachelor Party
Stationery	Invitations, announcements, programs, thank you notes and mailing costs	Groom assists with writing thank you notes	Assist assembling and addressing invitations
Attire	Bride’s gown, veil, accessories Mother’s dress Father’s formalwear	Groom’s formalwear Mother’s dress Father’s formalwear	Bridesmaid’s dresses Groomsmen formalwear
Flowers	Ceremony and reception Bouquets for the bridesmaids and flower girls	Bride’s bouquet Corsages for mothers Men’s boutonnieres
Ceremony	Church, rentals, and music fees	Marriage license and officiant fee
Photography & Videography	Engagement and Wedding photos and video		Take extra behind-the-scenes and candid pictures
Transportation	Limo for the Wedding Party to the ceremony and reception	Limo for the Bride and Groom	Wedding Party may drive themselves
Reception	Venue, rentals, food, cake, drink, decorations, favors, and entertainment	Groom’s cake	Bubbles or rice to toss and assist with assembling favors
Honeymoon		Plan and cover all expenses	Travel expenses if a destination wedding
Gifts	Groom and Bridesmaids	Bride and Groomsmen	Bride and Groom

Grooms, Choose Your Wedding Band

Grooms, once you’ve taken care of the engagement and mastered the art of getting down on one knee, it’s time to check off another important milestone in the wedding process. Yep, it’s time to go back to the jeweler. But don’t pass out just yet, guys. This time it’s all about you, and it most likely won’t be your pocketbook that’s taking the hit. Generally, if the groom has paid for his fiancé’s engagement ring and wedding band, common etiquette suggests that she’ll cover your wedding band.

But before you start thinking you don’t really need a wedding band, think again. Although women understand that most guys aren’t crazy about jewelry, your bride-to-be probably won’t let you off the hook without a wearing one after you’re married. Once you understand that, it’s time to start looking for the ring that’s right for you.

First, it’s important to select your band at least one month before your wedding, so there will be plenty of time to deal with any problems related to size or availability. Before you head to the jeweler, it’s helpful to research the types of bands you’re interested in before you step in a store so you won’t be overwhelmed by all of the different options. Believe it or not, there are many different kinds of men’s wedding bands available. Some have different metals, different fits, grooves or engraving, or inset stones. You should also discuss this with your fiancée to decide whether it’s important that your band should match hers. The more knowledge you have before heading in the jewelry store, the better.

There are several different types of metals that wedding bands are made from, and each has its pros and cons. While it often comes down to personal preference and price, probably the most common type of metal used is either white or yellow gold. Gold has several benefits, including its light weight. If you’ve never worn a ring, gold might be a more comfortable option for you. Another popular option is platinum, which is one of the most expensive metals available. However, another caveat is its weight. You’ll definitely remember it’s on your finger. Other options include titanium, sterling silver and palladium. All of these options have their advantages, so it’s important to discuss them with your jeweler before making your decision.

In addition to the metal you choose, some guys like to add diamonds or other gems to their rings. This is another area where it helps to do some research before hitting the stores. Your jeweler should be able to offer you several different options to compare.

Another important decision is the fit of the ring. There are several options ranging from classic to what’s called a comfort fit. The main difference between the fits is whether or not the edge of the ring is rounded or straight cut. We recommend at least trying on a comfort fit band, which are popular because they truly are comfortable and don’t dig into your skin, making it easier to get used to your band if you typically don’t wear jewelry.

TheManRegistry.com Recommendation: Choosing your wedding band is one of the major decisions you’ll make during the engagement process. So it naturally pays to research. Make your trip to the jeweler as painless as possible by talking with your fiancé and picking out a couple of different ring options ahead of time. That way, the decisions at the store will be much easier. Finally, as with your fiancé’s ring, it’s wise to look into ring insurance. You’d be amazed at how many guys tend to lose them as early as on their honeymoon(while swimming, playing golf, etc.).