Jackson County Bridal Guide 012711

Transcript

Bridal Guide 2011 A supplement to the Jackson County Pilot and L eld Standard akefi C2 • Bridal Edition • Thursday, January 27, 2011 A long-awaited silver-screen dream come true Walking the red carpet on her wedding day by RYAN BRINKS News Editor They drove up in classic cars, stepped out under the shadow of an historic marquee emblazoned with their names and strode over red carpet into downtown Jackson’s landmark Historic State Theatre. It was a dream come true for Darcey Lapic Herem — and a dream years in the making. After moving to Jackson in seventh grade, Herem became well-acquainted with the theater, since her great-uncle Joe Matuska ran it. “A lot of times we would go down there, get in for free and help pick up trash and they’d give us a ride home,” she said. And it had been in the family long before them. “My grandparents are the ones who started the theater here,” said Rita Lapic, Herem’s mother. “My grandma designed it and my grandpa built (the original theater location where Pamida is now).” That was Frank and Mary Matuska. Later, probably in the early 1900s, the business was moved to its current location, she said. Herem first dreamed up her wedding at the movie house locale for a high school social studies project. “I don’t even know why,” she said of choosing it. But it stuck. The 1994 Jackson High School graduate and daughter of Lee and Rita Lapic revisited that dream — in much more detail — over the year leading up to her June 26, 2010, wedding with Peter Herem. “We didn’t want to have it in a church and didn’t want to do it outdoors,” she said. “With the family connection, it seemed this would be a great choice.” Though it was the first wedding performed during Mike and Nikki Schwartz’s tenure as owners, they delivered on a number of wedding day special effects. In addition to the couple’s names on the marquee and the red carpet, the ceremony got under way with a slideshow on the silver screen. Then, at the moment the credits rolled on that, the black and white-themed bridesmaids proceeded down one aisle while the groomsmen, decked out in black tuxedos and cream vests, entered down the other aisle. “Mike and Nikki were just so nice,” Lapic said. “They just did everything in their power to make it special.” As Herem made her way down the aisle in her father’s arm, she held a bouquet of handcrafted crepe paper flowers. “Every flower looked absolutely real,” said Lapic, who helped her daughter fashion many of the Martha Stewart-inspired crepe paper peonies, lilies, carnations, gardenias, roses, daisies, tulips and other flowers, some of which didn’t even necessarily have a name. “Darcey’s real artsy and so am I.” The ceremony also featured vows written by the couple and a pronunciation of marriage from a friend who became ordained just for their wedding, Lapic said. Though not available “He’s pretty easy going to disrupt the ceremony, the groom’s one request and thought it was a pretty — popcorn — was served cool idea too,” Herem said for the reception at the of the wedding idea. Many in the wedding Jackson Golf Club. party and beyond thought Herem said. “It went better than I expected.” so too. For one, the ease of set“We got a lot of really good compliments on it, just up made it an attractive being an interesting venue,” See LAPIC-HEREM on C3 CATERING We specialize in making dreams come true with our catering services tailored to fit your budget and taste! Contact Kari or Becky for all your catering needs! U.S. Hwy. 71 N., Jackson, MN Submitted photos Special Event Call us for . . . Weddings • Meetings • Anniversaries Banquets • Birthday Parties • And Much More! No event too big or too small! Catering by Jean Leopold Under the Historic State Theatre marquee, Darcey and Peter Herem (left) accompany their flower girl Lydia Herem and ring bearer Lucas Mortensen, bridesmaids Ginger Mortensen, Rebecca Pfeiffer and Lena Hanson and groomsmen David Herem, Jacob Herem and Avery Lapic. Bridal Registry Brides . . . stop in and register your gift ideas for your upcoming bridal shower and wedding! when you register in our bridal registry. 507 847-2074 Mon.–Sat., 6 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 7 a.m.–10 p.m. 891 First Ave., Heron Lake Call Jean at 507-793-2651 or 507-793-2757 P & J’s Mini-Mart Free Gift 701 3rd Street Jackson 507-847-4210 PLUMBING, HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Thursday, January 27, 2011 • Bridal Edition • C3 Lapic-Herem: Unique setting earns two thumbs up Continued from C2 location — that and the simple fact of having it in Jackson. From her Minneapolis perspective, “it was nice to have it in a small town. Everything was easier and laid back,” Herem said. Nevertheless, the bride did a lot of the planning herself. “I recommend a wedding planner, at least for that day,” she said in retrospect. Overall, the cinematic experience drew two thumbs up. “It had an extra special touch because it had the family connection, but I recommend it to others as a non-traditional place to get married in Jackson,” Herem said. A honeymoon on a budget? It’s easy, local agents say It’s possible to save money on your destination wedding as well by JUSTIN R. LESSMAN Publisher With a sour economy still fresh in many minds, local travel agents say soon-to-be-newlyweds are looking for ways to scale back and save money on both destination weddings and honeymoons. But despite being a little more cost-conscious these days, the agents add, couples are still willing to spend money on these once-in-a-lifetime memory-makers. “Newlyweds are still taking honeymoons,” said Janet Bargfrede of the Travel Station of Jackson. “They’re just looking to scale back a little — maybe planning shorter stays or looking to scale back on hotel accommodations.” Despite the recent recession, honeymoons remain one of the strongest travel categories, said Connie Vanderpoel, certified travel planner with Southwest Tour and Travel, with offices in Jackson. “Studies show that brides and grooms are willing to make concessions on other parts of their wedding — maybe a less expensive dress, a DJ rather than a band — but they won’t skimp on their honeymoon because of the memories that come with it. And the mentality is that they can spend it now, and make the money back later — so newlyweds are still spending.” As for destination weddings, couples are really looking for places that offer the most bang for their often more-tightly-squeezed buck, said Bargfrede and Vanderpoel. hearts set on saving money on a destination wedding, Vanderpoel suggests looking at the where and when. She said a destination like Mexico will often prove much more economical than one in, say, Europe. She also suggests shopping hotels and resorts for deals. “Many resorts offer special complimentary weddings or affordable wedding packages,” she said, “and some hotels may have better rates.” For those who have their hearts set on a certain place, money can still be saved if some flexibility can enter into the equation, said Vanderpoel. “Be flexible and plan ahead,” she said. “Have several options for the date and time of your wedding. This way, you’ll be able to have your wedding at the resort of your choosing. You can also save more by having your wedding during the slow season in the destination you choose.” The bride and groom exchanged their vows in front of the silver screen. Destination weddings Destination weddings combine a wedding and a honeymoon, Vanderpoel said, and are often less expensive than traditional weddings due to their smaller size. In terms of saving money on destination weddings, Vanerpoel said, it’s all about the destination itself. “Airlines are flying full, so there are no deals on airfare,” she said. The only way to even attempt to save some bucks on the plane ride is by booking well in advance, she said. Bargfrede agreed. “There’s not much out there for airline deals,” she said. “In fact, if anything, the plane ride portion has gotten more expensive, what with the airlines charging for luggage and all other Honeymoons Honeymooners can also sorts of things now.” So, for those with their See HONEYMOONS on C4 Submitted photo Peter and Darcey Herem walk down the red carpet into the Historic State Theatre, a downtown Jackson landmark built and long operated by members of the bride's family. With unparalleled access to shows, dining, sites and, of course gaming — and all at rock-bottom prices — Las Vegas is one of the country’s top-value honeymoon destinations, local travel agents say. Your Wedding Memories Will Last Forever! • Fresh Flowers • Aisleabras • Balloons • Silk Flowers • Candelabras • Rentals • Jewelry Sherburn Nursery & Floral Photo by Tracy Toa 507-764-3191 • 1-800-944-7644 ”Wow! Words cannot describe how grateful we are to the Hi-Lo! Everything was perfect. We had so many compliments on the great food, wonderful display, and superior service to our guests! It allowed us to relax and enjoy the party!! We can’t thank you enough.“ Love, Dan and Jean Pike Co. Rd. 26E, Sherburn, MN Together we can create a reception that is unforgettable and uniquely yours. ~ Bridal Showers ~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Wedding Receptions ~ Licensed Professional Bar Service ~ Gift Opening Brunches ~ Professional Wedding Reception Planner See us for all your wedding party supply needs . . . • Tents • Archways • Candelabras • Tables / Chairs • Roasters / Chafing Dishes • Punch Bowls • Fountains • Cake Stands • Cupcake Holders • Aisle Runners 1474 Humiston Ave., Worthington, MN [email protected] Hours: 8–5 M–F; 8–4 Sat. www.hiloclub.com (507) 662-5992 or 888-TRY-HILO 507-372-7669 RENTALS–SALES–SERVICE Lakefield, Lakefield, MN C4 • Bridal Edition • Thursday, January 27, 2011 Honeymoons: Plenty of ways to have a memorable trip and save some money in the process Continued from C3 any hidden or additional save money based on where value.” As far as Orlando, plenty costs you don’t want,” she and when they want to go. “It all just depends on of hotels are offering special said. “There are lots of destination, time of year rates and other money-sav- warm-weather deals with all-inclusives and cruises.” and travel dates,” Bargfrede ing options, she said. Vanderpoel has also seen For those looking beyond said. a trend toward In terms of des“NEWLYWEDS ARE STILL TAKING all-inclusives and tination, Bargcruises. frede said, two HONEYMOONS.THEY’RE JUST “You’ll spend a of the top-value LOOKING TO SCALE BACK A LITTLE lot less by choosplaces within the — MAYBE PLANNING SHORTER ing an all-inclusive country right now are Las Vegas and STAYS OR LOOKING TO SCALE BACK resort where much of the food and Orlando. ON HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS.” beverage expense “For what you is part of the lodgcan get, Las VeJanet Bargfrede ing costs,” she said. gas has a lot of deals right now — some of the states, Bargfrede sug- “Cruises also hit on another the best values out there,” gested either shopping all- trend we’re seeing — the she said. “There’s shows, inclusive resorts or jumping desire for all-inclusives.” As far as out-of-country meals, sites to see, moun- on a cruise ship. “With those options, you honeymoon destinations tains to drive to — lots to do even apart from the know how much you’re pay- for those on a budget, Vangambling, and all a good ing and don’t get hit with derpoel said Mexico has some of the best deals one can find anywhere in the world. “Always a honeymoon favorite, it now offers some of the best pricing you can find,” she said of the country to the south. “Take advantage of the fabulous beaches, unparalleled warmth and culture and the exceptional values.” Vanderpoel and Bargfrede said there are plenty of other little measures couples can take to save a buck or two on a honeymoon. “Shave a couple days off your trip, look at flying in and out on off-peak days, get a hotel room with a partial-ocean view instead of full-ocean view — there’s plenty of ways to have a memorable trip and save some money in the process,” Bargfrede said. “You just have to look around.” So, you’re planning a destination wedding? For Memories That Last A Lifetime . . . Gifts for the entire wedding party • Engraving available “Known for Fine Diamonds” 1009 4th Avenue • Worthington, MN Phone: 507-376-4313 So much more than Uncle Charlie can do! • Wedding Videos • Photo Montages • Love Story Keepsake Video • Professionally T aped and Created Videos BJ Video Productions Windom, MN • Ph: 507-831-2023 Toll Free: 1-800-558-2023 www.bjvideowindom.com Let us assist you with selections for your wedding reception and all your special celebrations. • Champagne • Wine • Beer • Keg Beer • Cordials • Liqueurs A Toast to the Bridal Couple Couple • Wine Coolers • Handmade Cigars Who pays? Make the details clear. It is customary that the bride and groom pay for the accommodations for their attendants, and some wedding couples may pay for travel costs, as well. Decide what you are able to do and make these details clear to your attendants when you ask them to be part of your wedding. Send out ‘save the date’ cards With traditional weddings, invites are usually sent out four to six weeks in advance; but for a destination wedding, that isn’t enough time for people to make their travel arrangements and ask for time off from work, etc. It is recommended to send out the savethe-date cards several months in advance. Carry your dress on Many brides take their wedding dress on the plane as carry-on luggage, but be sure Submitted photo it is an approved size, as some The warm sandy beaches of Mexico offer the best interna- airplanes do not have extra tional values for both honeymoon and destination wedding room for oversized carry-on travel, according to local travel agents. pieces. It is advised to make arrangements with the airline in advance. Some airlines allow the large “coat closets” in the first-class cabin area to be used for bridal gown storage. Rent the tux there Tuxedos can be brought We offer the perfect setting along, but are usually rented at for your groom’s dinner! the wedding location (check with your resort). If you are bringing a rented tuxedo, have one of your guests bring it back and return it for you. Send the rest 507 2nd St., Jackson, MN • 847-9901 Packing for a wedding and a honeymoon can add up to a lot of luggage. A good suggestion is to have some of your guests bring some items with them or ship items to the Let us help you create your bridal bouquets that resort, if allowed. If you are capture the spirit and style of your special day. shipping anything, make sure you leave extra time and use an overnight service. Bring copies of everything Typically, most countries require that documents be sent and paperwork be completed before your arrival. If this is the case, do not send documents by regular mail. Mail service throughout much of Mexico and the Caribbean can be extremely slow. Rely on fax transmissions and overnight services for delivery of papers. Also, bring extra copies of all paperwork to your destina516 South Highway, Jackson, MN tion, just in case. now available for any occassion! BANQUET FACILITIES Flower Market 507-847-3610 • 1-800-757-3611 Source: Connie Vanderpoel, Southwest Tour and Travel For Memories That Last A Lifetime . . . Jackson Municipal Liquor Store 615 Third Street, Jackson 507-847-2826 Thursday, January 27, 2011 • Bridal Edition • C5 After a dozen years of marriage, advice is the same: Marry your best friend by MIKE JORDAN Staff Writer It was while they were students at college that Jeff and Haylee (Mack) Goulet of Lakefield met. Haylee worked with the marketing department at Willmar Technical College and Jeff had transferred there from North Dakota State University. “I had a picture of some friends — of our group together from NDSU — and Haylee was working in the photography department, so I went down there to see what it would cost to have an enlargement made of the photo. I first met her there and it just went from there with us meeting at school dances,” Jeff Goulet said. “Then we started dating.” “We dated nine and a half months,” Haylee Goulet said. “Then we decided to go our separate ways and stayed apart for nearly two years.” That’s when Jeff, just out of the blue, decided to call Haylee and wish her a happy birthday. The only thing about that birthday call was it came two weeks after the event, a bit late. And when he called, Haylee asked him what he really wanted. Obviously, he wanted to start dating her again, which they started doing. “Our timing hasn’t been the best,” Jeff Goulet said, laughing. “When we were first dating, I had this plan to propose to Haylee at my dad’s cabin on Lake Minnewaska that has a beautiful overlook to the lake, but we decided to separate before that had happened. I guess you could say she ruined that plan.” But after dating for a short time the second time around, they became engaged at the cabin — just not in that special spot or at the special time Jeff had first planned for it to happen. That was in the fall of 1997. They were married one year later on Nov. 7, 1998, at Kranzburg, S.D., a town located just outside of Watertown, in Haylee’s home church. “It was a traditional Catholic church wedding,” Haylee Goulet said. “We had about 200 people attend, mostly family and close friends. It snowed that day and it was a very beautiful snow.” Haylee’s former piano teacher coordinated the wedding and her motherin law was in charge of it. Her mother actually made the flowers for the wedding and Haylee made her own necklace for the event. “I remember the children’s choir from our church singing, ‘Angels Among Us,’” Haylee said. “It was a memorable song.” But then there was that timing thing again. Jeff nearly had to fly out for a business trip, but was able to delay it at the last minute so the couple could get married as planned and, because of time constraints, the couple made a quick honeymoon trip to Winnipeg, Canada. “That was an interesting trip,” Jeff said. “Winnipeg is a very culturally diverse city and, instead of having the big malls, they have many traditional small shops in the downtown area that helps make the place a quaint spot to visit. It was a relaxing and enjoyable time.” After their engagement, Jeff changed jobs and moved to Rosseau, where he worked for Polaris Industries. At that time, Haylee worked for Laurel’s in Jackson. After they married, she got a job in the plastics molding department as an administrative assistant at Polaris while Jeff was the purchasing agent there. “We have been married 12 years and in those 12 years we have moved seven times,” Haylee said. “Among others, we’ve lived in Sioux Falls, S.D.; Spirit Lake, Iowa; the Warroad area in northern Minnesota; and lived in Baxter before coming here to Lakefield,” Haylee said. “Baxter is separated from Brainerd by the river.” “Baxter is really where the retail businesses are located for the Brainerd area,” Jeff said. Presently Haylee is the coordinator of the Lakefield American Red Cross blood drives and is active in the Pleasantview Elementary School Parent-Teachers Organization. Jeff is now the purchasing manager for AGCO in Jackson. They moved to Lakefield in June 2009. As for marriage and those contemplating the same, the Goulets offered some good advice in choosing a lifelong mate. See GOULETS on C6 Jeff and Haylee Goulet’s advice to those thinking about marriage? Marry your best friend. Submitted photos Let us help you create a unique food and beverage experience for your brunch, engagement party or reception. • Baked goods, desserts or sandwich and wrap platters • Premium coffees by the airpot that taste fresh and hot for hours Check us out on Facebook or call Susan to find out more. Celebrate your wedding day at Emerald Valley Golf Course Banquet rooms available for • Wedding receptions • Parties • Bridal showers • Class reunions • Banquets • Groom’s dinners 404 2nd Street • Jackson, MN • 507.847.4065 Susan Reiter, Owner JACKSON, MINNESOTA Welcome to the end of the day. o Plan your special event at the AmericInn. We offer two gathering rooms that can accommodate gift openings, bridal showers, small weddings, groom’s dinners, pool parties, anniversary parties, meetings and reunions Beautiful guest rooms, including whirlpool and two-room suites Spacious indoor recreation center with pool and whirlpool Complimentary enhanced continental breakfast with waffles Free high-speed Internet Beer pub and eatery Welcoming lobby with cozy fireside conversation area Cable TV with Showtime Ask about wedding services and group room blocks SM Lakefield, MN • 507-662-5755 Emerald Valley Golf Club, LLC. We offer convenient and affordable designer tux rental service for grooms and groomsmen. Look The Part o o o plus groom FREE for wedding anytime in 2011. Book now through March 31.* We have the experience to guide you through the selection process and are committed to helping each customer look, and feel, their best for the most important occasions of their lives. * Groom free with 5 paid tuxedos in the wedding party 10 AT SEE US % OFF o o o o o OFFERING THE LARGEST SELECTION OF TUXEDO STYLES AND VEST AND TIE COLORS IN THE AREA. PLAN AHEAD FOR PROM! Whether you are looking for traditional or fun and funky . . . we are your prom headquarters! es Five Lak w ho Bridal S Y, DA ON SUN THE Feb. 20! ENDERSON Downtown Fairmont • 507-238-2342 Clothing for men and women Hours: M–T–W–F 9–5:30; Thurs.: 9–8; Sat. 9–5 Junction of I-90 and Hwy. 71 • Jackson, MN 56143 507-847-2444 • 800-634-3444 www.americinn.com C6 • Bridal Edition • Thursday, January 27, 2011 Goulets: After a dozen years of marriage, the advice remains the same: Marry your very best friend Continued from C5 Described by the bride as a “traditional Catholic church “Marry your best friend,” wedding,” Jeff and Haylee Goulet exchanged vows on Nov. Jeff said. 7, 1998, in Kranzburg, S.D. Haylee indicated that communication and faith are what makes for a happy marriage, in her opinion. The Goulets have two children, both enrolled in Pleasantview Elementary School — Samantha, who is in fifth grade, and Joshua, who is a second-grader this year. I can’t find the perfect words for my longtime best friend’s wedding I love to write, which is a good thing, since it’s a huge part of my job. Writing a story after watching a basketball game generally comes easy to me. So does writing a feature after talking to an individual or a family. So why am I having such a hard time writing a bestman speech for my best friend’s wedding? I am a best man in two weddings this summer: my brother, Jacob’s, in June and my best friend Ryan Place’s in August. I came up with a speech for Jacob’s wedding mind involves our times rather easily. I thought of driving around Lakefield some ideas one night and in the pickup — or tweaked it a few times sometimes fulland now I think size van — when it’s the prefect it was snowy and combination of icy. We spent sappiness and hours fishtailing humor, with a around every good message. corner and But I haven’t plowing through been able to snow banks. But come up with every excursion the perfect had to end with speech for Ryan a grand finale. and his fiancé Usually these Cami. From Way involved us We have had Downtown going through some great times Dan Condon a snow bank we together and had previously I have several thought might be too big wonderful memories of and sometimes ended with Ryan and I spending time us getting stuck or doing at my mom’s daycare some minor damage to the as youngsters, playing sports together and taking vehicle. But after thinking advantage of a fresh coat of snow to do some serious about it, Ryan and Cami’s wedding isn’t a grand fish-tailing in my parents’ finale, it’s a new beginning. pickup. It’s a time for them to But how do I relate form a bond as one instead hiding from everyone of being two individuals. — including other kids at It’s a time for them to the daycare, my parents and even cops — for hours start fresh as a family. It’s a time for them to in a tree house to getting fall in love all over again. married? It’s anything from a Or what does Ryan grand finale. dominating pretty much So that leaves me in every athletic event we ever played together have a predicament and back at stage one of speech to do with tying the knot? writing. How about when we Thankfully I’ve got drove on a mostly-frozen Heron Lake and launched some time to come up with the perfect words to say the pickup off Sandy Point? Does that relate at to my best friend and his fantastic fiancé. all to getting hitched? The best thing I have in A bride’s flower options from her flower bouquet to the centerpieces are virtually limitless – let us help you pick just the right ones. June 4 Kelly Johnson and Paul Hargus August 6 Jamie Simmons and Ryan Karasch Call service when planning your Wedding and Groom’s Supper. ONE WAY CATERING • Great home-cooked specialties • • Affordable prices • • Flexible menu planning • • Indoor and outdoor events • Let us help make your special occasion a great day! August 13 Kendra Gazda and Aaron Lind September 10 Lindsay Wetzler and Chris Wright Enchanted Flowers & Gifts 415 Second St., Jackson, MN 507-847-5174 ONE WAY CATERING Mt. Lake, MN 56159 507-427-2437 or 507-822-2336 Brenda Harder – Owner 30 years of food service and catering experience. For the perfect wedding and reception, see our friendly and experienced staff! • Bridal bouquets • Wedding party flowers • Brass candelabras • Church and reception decorations • Candles, balloons, party supplies • Wedding and shower gifts Mon. through Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m. to noon Free Available after hours Estima by appointment tes! Weekdays 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Thursday Evenings ’til 8 p.m. Saturdays 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; and by appointment 301 3rd St. West • Lakefield 507-662-6286 • 1-877-307-3001 Village Green Florist & Greenhouse Thursday, January 27, 2011 • Bridal Edition • C7 Planning a night of love in the fast lane Local couple plans their wedding right in victory circle by RYAN BRINKS News Editor They both grew up around the rev of engines, the scent of gas, oil and exhaust, and the glimpses of speeding cars kicking up dirt as they raced under the Saturday night lights. So when their mailbox filled with invitations for race day weddings, they shook their heads. “I think the conversation started out as ‘Who gets married on a Saturday during racing season?” said Jackson’s Chad Tweedt. But the more he and his bride-to-be, Stacey Flitter, thought about it, the more appealing it became — it being a Saturday wedding for themselves, but at the Jackson Speedway. “It just made sense, since that is where everyone is every weekend,” Tweedt said. “We have family that race everything from stock, mods to sprint cars and even more friends in the stands, and it is one of the main things that drew us together in the first place.” Tweedt has lived in the area almost his entire life, graduating high school in 1993 and college in 1997. “My dad started taking me to races,” he said. “I have always had family racing in one class or another since then.” Currently, that lineup of racing family members includes cousin Steve Yarns in a 305 sprint car, cousin Mel Halverson in a modified — and his son in one too, and a nephew in a hobby stock. “I don’t drive, I run demo cars,” he joked. “But, I have been a pit crew member for one car or another since I was 14, most recently (since 2003) for Steve Yarns and his No. 98 Cheaper Than a Wife sprint car. “I grew up watching them fly around the track. Now I get to wrench on them. It’s pretty fun.” Meanwhile, his bride was growing up in Janesville, home to the Arlington Raceway. “She grew up with a dad who always worked on race cars, which meant weekends at the track and go-karts,” Tweedt said. Eventually their racing paths crossed — on the Internet through common racing friends. And when the relationship led to marriage, the racing influence didn’t stop at the wedding. “She agreed to get married at the track and to name our son Maxim Hoosier after a sprint car chassis and tire,” he said. Once the wedding date was set for June 5 — also Tweedt’s 35th birthday — the couple worked with track promoter Jon McCorkell and assistant promoter Brian Postma to make all of the arrangements, particularly renting the VIP booth and getting tickets for all of the guests. “Our interim pastor agreed to marry us trackside in a short ceremony, and we asked our guests to wear their favorite driver shirts or purple and white to support the No. 98 Cheaper Than a Wife race team,” Tweedt said. “Groom and groomsmen wore pit crew shirts and jeans. The hardest part of the planning was getting people to believe we were actually getting married at the track. Some of my family didn’t think we were serious and expected a church wedding.” The plan was to exchange vows and be married in victory circle during an intermission between the regular Saturday night heat races and the feature races. In addition to reserving the VIP booth for friends and family, a reception party was set to go in the No. 98 pit area of driver and best man Yarns. Despite those plans, the racer’s nemesis — rain — messed the whole thing up. “We held off as long as we could, hoping to at least get some pictures at the track, but 12 hours of rain caused the races to be cancelled at 5 p.m. and at 6 we called all of our guests and posted a note on Facebook that we were moving to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, with a meal at Pillars Pub afterwards, since we weren’t gonna have access to speedway BBQs and nachos,” said Tweedt, who works at Pillars two nights a week as a cook. The couple had talked with the church ahead of time to ensure the event Chad and Stacey Tweedt of Jackson both grew up around racing and so nothing seemed to be more fitting than a wedding in the Jackson Speedway victory circle amidst the Saturday night action with friends and family filling the VIP booths in the grandstand. Submitted photos Named after a racing chassis and tire, Chad and Stacey Tweedt’s son Maxim Hoosier helped them celebrate their racing-themed wedding day with attendants Derek Sampson (from left), Jenny Sweere and Steve Yarns. perfect setting races or our love in the fast lane theme.” Nevertheless, the attempt was worth it, Tweedt said, and he would recommend a themed wedding to others as well. “Do what your heart tells you to do,” he said. “… I think you should do whatever your passion is.” The Historic Dayton House is the perfect setting for intimate weddings and receptions. Having a larger wedding? Consider the Dayton House for your bridal shower, groom’s dinner, gift opening, or as a romantic getaway on your wedding night. The grandeur of the home, with its leaded glass windows, hardwood floors, carved fireplaces, and antique furniture provides the backdrop for a memorable occasion. could be switched in such a case, and then it was merely a matter of keeping in contact with friends and family via Facebook, phone and text message. “It turned out perfectly fine,” he said. “Everyone made the drive and showed up at the church, even without wedding night at the Make your wedding day the most beautiful day of your life with our professional beauty services. We can assist the entire wedding party in getting ready for that special day! AS A FULL-SERVICE SALON, WE OFFER: • Cuts and Styles • Perms • Acrylic Nails • Tanning Beds • Manicures • Pedicures • Eyebrow and Leg Waxing • Wedding Styles • Spray Tanning any rental for the suites or the main floor. Expires 12/31/11 10 off % Cutting Image Hairstylists 303 Main Street • Lakefield • 662-6291 The Historic Dayton House 1311 4th Avenue Worthington, MN 56187 507-727-1311 www.daytonhouse.org Your Perfect Day Begins With Perfect Invitations Let us help you create your own unique, personalized wedding invitations and stationery for your special day. We can customize the look of your: Save the Date Cards ~ Announcements Invitations ~ RSVP Cards ~ Envelopes Thank Yous ~ Wedding Programs We also offer a full line of Carlson Craft Stationery and Accessories. Downtown Jackson • 507-847-3771 Downtown Lakefield • 507-662-5555 www.livewireprinting.com [email protected] C8 • Bridal Edition • Thursday, January 27, 2011 You’re engaged! Now what? The top five wedding planning questions to answer before doing anything After he pops the question and she says “yes,” the reality of wedding planning sets in — and that feeling of joyful romance can fade as quickly as Christmas lights on an overloaded circuit. Here are the top five questions you will need to answer to make your wedding planning journey a pleasant experience. can be one of the most expensive undertakings you’ll tackle in your life together as a couple. Many couples only spend more on buying a house or car, or funding their children’s college educations. Setting — and sticking to — a budget for your wedding is an essential step toward starting your married life on a sound financial footing. Determine where your funding will 1. What is our budget? Funding your wedding come from — if your parents can help or if you’ll be paying on your own — and decide how much you can afford to spend without going into debt. 2. What season works? Virtually as soon as you announce you’re engaged, people start asking what the wedding date will be. To make answering that question as simple as possible, start by considering in what season you would like to be married. Would you prefer a spring ceremony? Or do you dream of a holiday wedding? By narrowing down the season, and selecting it well in advance, you’ll be able to secure a date that will work for everyone. wedding planning is usually most successful when done well in advance, if you’re interested in a destination wedding, planning far ahead is essential. Popular destinations book quickly in prime wedding seasons and you may find venues in the destination of your choice are booked a year or more in advance. Taking the stress out of preparing bridal shower food If you’re planning a bridal shower, you want to make it a relaxing, fun time for everyone — and right at the center of the fun is good food. If you’re feeling anxious about what to serve and how to get it prepared — especially with everyone nowadays paying so much attention to what they eat — relax. You can serve delicious and healthy food without hiring a professional chef or spending a week in the kitchen. Here are some time-saving tips and recipes to help you get the food under control and host a simple but sensational shower for the bride. • Share the work. When guests ask if they can bring anything, say "yes." And don't be afraid to ask them to bring something if they don't contact you first — most guests are eager to help. Get others to prepare dishes you either don't really enjoy making yourself or you know they do especially well. You can even have each guest bring a dessert or appetizer and share the recipes with the new bride. Doing the food as a group is fun, and it helps build the joyful spirit of the occasion. • Keep it healthy. There's a good chance a lot of your guests are trying to eat healthier. Why not go that route and make it delicious too? You can provide great-tasting, nutritious snacks that also go easy on artificial additives, salt, fat, sugar and other potentially unhealthy ingredients. For guests with special diet restrictions, gluten-free baking mixes are now readily available for easy, worryfree baked treats. • Take some shortcuts. For enticing, freshly made dips without fuss, use highquality organic dip mixes. Just add a creamy dill, French onion, guacamole or ranch dip mix to equal parts low-fat cottage cheese and non-fat plain yogurt and mix in a blender or food processor until smooth. Serve with fresh veggies you can buy already cleaned and cut up at the store, and you get a lot of healthy snacking with very little prep time. Or use pre-blended mulling spice to create flavorful cider, punch or other beverages without a lot of work. • Remake everyday favorites. One way to combine simple and special is to take easy-to-prepare favorites and dress them up with special festive seasonings. Try distinctive seasoning blends like curry or Italian seasoning. A seasoned sugar combination like lemon sugar or cinnamon sugar will add a gourmet touch to your tea. Or add a touch of a spice like tarragon or a chili powder seasoning blend to your usual deviled eggs, and you'll instantly have something out of the ordinary. • Shop smart. Make your shopping list well in advance. That way you can pick up everything in one trip — and eliminate any last-minute sprints to the grocery store. Courtesy ARA content 4. What kind of venue do you want? Do you dream of a big church wedding? Or saying your “I do’s” in a beautiful natural setting? Perhaps you want your reception to be in a grand hotel. KnowN N N ing the type of venue you desire will help you refine Delivery and setup available. your options and choose a 3. Where do we want to specific location down the get married and have our road. HENNING 1 block north of fairgrounds reception? Jackson, MN 5. Who do you want to Will you have a destina507-847-3785 INC. tion wedding? Or do you officiate? Is it important to you to want to keep it local? While be married by your own church’s minister? Or are you OK with a justice of the peace? Do you fantasize about being joined in marriage by a ship’s captain? Or does your mother have her heart set on seeing you married by the rabbi who was Check out the there at your bat mitzvah? THOMPSON HAUGEN Livewire! Just as popular venues book quickly, favorite officiants also have their dance cards Five Lakes Centre, Fairmont, MN • 507-238-1006 fill fast for popular wedding Chuck and Peggy Haugen ~ Owners ~ Russ and Mindy Thompson seasons. As soon as you know who you would like to Book your wedding officiate at your wedding, it might pay to approach him reception and dance today! or her and find out about Banquets Showers Receptions future availability. Rent For Your Special Occasion ForYour Tables Chairs Canopies RENTAL Your life together starts with us! Stop in and see our great selection! WEDDING STATIONERY Jewelers 847-3771 Parties Dances Enjoy your special day in our 55' x 82' air-conditioned hall. Seats up to 400! Senior’s room also available for rental, seats approx. 50. Heron Lake Community Center 312 10th St., Heron Lake Call city clerk’s office at 507-793-2826 office Make It An Event To Remember . . . Book Your Party Now! • Wedding Receptions • Dances • Anniversaries • Birthdays • Benefits Benefits • Holiday Parties • Any Special Occasions Weddings . . . we can do it all! We have a catering kitchen and a liquor license. BOOK EARLY! Decorations available for rent! Needs a Special Location Dance floor - 400 capacity Bar • Meals • Hors d’oeuvres Decorations • Linens Your Special Day 1750 Cottonwood Lake Drive, Windom, MN (507) 831-6149 • [email protected] www.windom-mn.com/facilities/cc/index.htm Windom Community Center The Blue Ridge DJ Wedding Package ~ Complete Online Event Planning ~ “New” – Digital Video Presentation ~ Exceptional Sound & Lighting Options Retaining my services insures a professional who not only is well acquainted with wedding entertainment, but is able to devote the time and attention to every aspect of your reception plan, and, as a result, will attend to all the fine points that go into making your celebration a success. “Contact us for a price quote” Elks Lodge Hwy 9 W. Estherville 362-2575 Over 25 years experience Jeffrey Stephens The Blue Ridge Road Show Your Best Choice in DJ Entertainment Owner/Operator 488 Riverside Drive Jackson, MN 56143 507-847-2754 • Cell: 507-841-0900 www.blueridgeroadshow.com