Imani FOR TODAY’S CARIBBEAN AND AFRICAN-AMERICAN COUPLE Dressed to thrill! Going traditional, Afrocentric or both Exploring ancient traditions Budget for the big day

PUBLISHED BY Featuring The Largest Selection Of Medium, Wide & Extra Wide Widths Sizes 4 to 13 PUBLISHER Clifford Luster

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PRODUCTION STAFF Arthur Arutyunov Yvonne Farley Lorens Morris-Rawlins Table of Contents EDITORIAL STAFF Meredith Deliso 2 Wedding culture 18 Your wedding glossary

ADVERTISING SALES A look at rituals Essential terms you need to know Michael Babwar and traditions in Africa Jeanne Eisenhardt 20 Shopping tips Andrew Mark Jay Pelc 4 Jump the for the groom Anil Ramharack Find a way to incorporate this Look like a million bucks on your big day Stephanie Stellaccio tradition into your ceremony 22 Budgeting your wedding ADMINITRATIVE COORDINATOR Brian Williams 6 Dressed to thrill Financial planning is the Go traditional or Afrocentric key to an unforgettable event IMANI WEDDING in your clothing – or both Published by 24 Inviting your 8 Set it off with guests in style these accents Everything you need to Caribbean Life/CNG The right accessories know about your accouncement 1 MetroTech Center North 10th Floor will make you queen for a day Brooklyn, NY 11201 26 Know your ‘4C’s’ 718.250.2500 10 Princess You better shop around The right headpiece before buying a diamond Imani WEDDING can be your crowning glory FOR TODAY’S CARIBBEAN AND AFRICAN-AMERICAN COUPLE 28 Top 10 proposal Dressed 12 mistakes to thrill! checklist What you need to know Going traditional, Afrocentric or both What to do and when to before popping the question Exploring do it from beginning to end ancient traditions 30 Making your Budget 14 Catering to your needs dream home for the Pick a date and find the Compromise is the key to a big day

PUBLISHED BY right reception hall happy marriage and living together

Cover photo and table of contents photo by: 16 10 tips for your nuptials 32 Planning your getaway John Bayley Photography Don’t be clueless when it Expert advice translates Website: www.johnbayleyphotography.com comes to your perfect day to a successful

2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 1 TRADITIONS Wedding culture A look at marriage rituals and traditions in Africa frica is rich in cultural traditions, especially wedding and marriage rituals. The people of Africa celebrate the bond- Aing of a woman and a man in a variety of ways, from being courted by cousins to kidnapping the bride-to-be. Explore the many ways Africans celebrate marriage.

• Karo: The Karo people of Ethiopia cel- • Masai: are also arranged ebrate a young bride’s puberty with scarifi- among the Masai of Kenya, and often the cation. Cuts are made on her abdomen, and are matched with older men that they ashes are then massaged into the scars in do not know. The father of the bride spits his order to promote healing. The wounds are blessing for the couple on the bride’s head supposed to enhance the bride’s desirability. and breasts, and as she departs, she does not • Swahili: Marriages are arranged in the look back, fearing the myth that she will turn Swahili tribe of Kenya. Before the ceremony, to stone. One Masai custom is for female a number of rituals intended to enhance relatives of the groom to insult the bride in the bride’s attraction are performed. She order to ward off bad luck. is bathed in oils and sandalwood, and has • Himba: Among the Himba, the groom henna designs temporarily tattooed on her and members of his family kidnap the bride limbs. A somo, an elder woman of the tribe, before the ceremony, and decorate her in an instructs the bride how to please her hus- ekori, a marriage headdress made of leather. band, and may even hide under the bed in When the bride arrives at her husband’s new case there is a problem consummating the home, his relatives tell her what her responsi- marriage. bilities as his wife will be, and they show her their acceptance into their family by anoint- ing her with butterfat from cows. • Wodaabe: Their cousins, who wear what they consider to be their most powerful amulet to heighten their charm for the bride- to-be, typically court women of the Wodaabe tribe of Niger. Often, male cousins who are close to one another are attracted to the same girl. Once the bride-to-be selects her mate, the cousin who was not chosen is still welcomed into their home, and if the bride consents, their bed. • Ndebele: of the Ndebele of South Africa are celebrated in three stages, the end of which can take several years. The first stage is negotiation of the wedding and payment for the bride, or lobola, which is paid in installments of money and livestock. A two-week sequestration of the bride is the second stage, during which time other women teach the bride how to be a good wife. The third stage is completed only when Photo by John Bayley Photography www.johnbayleyphotography.com the bride has her first child.

2 IMANI Wedding Guide 2011 2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 3 TRADITIONS Jump the broom Find a way to incorporate this tradition into your ceremony room jumping has become one of the most Bpopular African tradi- tions at weddings — traditional and African-centered. Since slaves could not legally marry, they created their own rituals to honor their unions. Some say broom jumping comes from an African tribal marriage ritual of placing sticks on the ground, which repre- sents the couple’s new home. The jumping of the broom is a symbol of sweeping away the old and welcoming the new, or a symbol of a new beginning. Today, the ceremony can be performed at the wedding after the minister pronounces the couple man and wife, or at the reception just after the bridal enters the reception area. Performing a broom jumping the ceremony. This allows the audience to ceremony participate, which is in keeping with the A fully decorated broom can African tradition of community involvement. be purchased at ethnic stores, or Have your host ask guests to form a circle a regular household broom will around you as you and your partner stand in suffice. Broom sizes will vary, front of the broom on the floor. but it doesn’t matter which you The host should discuss the symbolism choose. If you decide to use behind the broom as it relates to the joining your own broom and decorate it of the couple and the combining of two fami- yourself, be sure it coordinates lies, and the need for the community to sup- with your wedding colors. Using port the couple. Meanwhile, have the couple your own broom can also be a hold the broom handle together and sweep great bonding activity for the around in a circle until the host or designated perhaps the night, person is finished talking. or week before the wedding. The groom should then place the broom Feel free to use bows, flowers on the floor and hold the bride’s hand. (artificial or real), or other trin- Have everyone count “1, 2, 3, Jump!” kets to make it unique, but don’t For more information about broom jump- overdo it. You’ll probably ing, check out Harriette Cole’s want this for a keepsake in “: The your home. You could also African-American Wedding have a basket full of ribbon Planner” and “Jumping the pieces at the wedding or Broom: Wedding Workbook.” reception and allow guests It’s an excellent resource for to tie ribbons around the anyone planning a wedding tradi- broom before you begin tional or African-centered.

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t’s your big day, which means it’s your choice as to what you wear. So, whether you want to wear full African , or incorporate African ele- Iments into your traditional wedding gown, you can do so. Today there are more and more Black designers who specialize in Afrocentric clothing and whose work is available to you, both custom-made and retail.

If you are considering wearing Afrocentric groom in white, which is associated with same but all individual as well. Depending on or African-inspired attire, you must first decide African ceremonial occasions. The most com- the time of day and the time of year of the cer- how African you want your clothing and mon choice of ensemble is a dashiki — emony, choose colors suggestive of the sunset, ceremony to be. Do you just want to wear an consisting of a loose tunic-like shirt and wide- for example, or of autumn. African garment in a Christian ceremony, or legged pants worn under an agbada (a large Afrocentric gowns or wraps need not be do you want all the accessories and rituals to robe) with a hat, all made out of the same fab- limited to prints and colors. Metallic colors, be African, too? Will your family be involved, ric and heavily embroidered. For contrast, his golds with “super wax” (metallicized fabric) and will they be able to accept this style of attendants usually wear a darker color — blue royal blue, for example, are a beautiful choice wedding? or black or dark stripes — that harmonize with for bridesmaids. Traditional gowns using Much Afrocentric headgear is based on the the bridesmaids’ outfits, and two piece Afrocentric fabrics or accessories (like capes gele, or head wrap, worn in many African (dashikis without the agbada). or boas) are also popular. cultures. Depending on the shape of the face Of course, there are as many variations of The bridesmaids’ outfits usually consist and the desired height, a designer may uses men’s Afrocentric formal dress as there are of two pieces — a boubah (loose blouse) from three to 10 yards of fabric that matches Black men and designers. Every color and just and lappa (wrapped skirt) — with a gele in the dress to make the wrap. The designer can about any fabric pattern is acceptable. Eurocut matching fabric (and always smaller than attach from five to 10 yards of tulle as an tuxedos with African fabric accessories are the bride’s). Because young girls often have African adaptation of the traditional veil. For also a fine choice and can be enhanced with trouble with wraps, consider choosing a style the most height and the most regal effect, stuff Afrocentric headgear. with elastic in the waistlines of the skirts and tulle inside the gele as well. Although it’s unusual for bridesmaids in a ruffle on the sleeves or hem to give a more Some brides prefer a constructed hat (such a traditional wedding to wear prints, they youthful look. as a pillbox) instead of a wrap. In these cases, are used often in Afrocentric wedding attire. For the ring bearer and pages, look for match the fabric of the dress and add decora- Bridesmaids are often advised to select a pants that match the groomsmen’s and tops in tive trim — gold braid or embroidery, for fabric that will complement the bride’s dress. the same color as the ’s and junior example — and attach tulle as well, depending Although all bridesmaids’ outfits are usually bridesmaids’. on the bride’s preference. The bride should made out of the same print, they may want to Another option is to blend the traditional look and feel good according to her own per- experiment with color. If there are six brides- with the Afrocentric by choosing European- sonal style and the style of the wedding. maids and the print comes in six colors, use style garments made of African fabrics in In a reversal of the traditional Western a different one for each outfit. It’s an elegant African color combinations, such as royal blue wedding colors, experts suggest dressing the sight to see a row of women all dressed the and gold or black and gold.

6 IMANI Wedding Guide 2011 Shopping for a wedding gown can be stress-free and even within your budget if you know where and what to look for. Dress by Alfred Angelo Style 1719 ACCESSORIES Set it off with these accents The right accessories will make you queen for a day he perfect wedding day accessories enhance the overall look of the bride and her wedding party, and subtle accents Twill complete the picture. The ideal accessories are all about modern subtle bead or pearl treatments. Maids will nostalgia that embraces tradition. For exam- also look fresh wearing shoulder wraps, in ple, think of timeless, dainty pearls that will sheer and iridescent fabrics. look completely of-the-moment on the wed- Jewels are in the Hair - Hair jewelry is ding day and equally modem fifty years from more important than ever. Bridesmaids can now, when the bride is reflecting on wedding wear fresh interpretations of hair bands with photos. The time of the ceremony, the formal- multi-faceted beads and sequins, in colors ity, and the bride’s personal taste will set the that coordinate with their . The newest tone for her accessory story. takes on headbands are head wraps that are Pearls of wisdom - From dainty solid styled similar to illusion necklaces and give strands to equally light illusion styles, anything the impression of sparkling beads interspersed with pearls stands the test of time and always in the hair. Think of silver or gold wire deco- looks fresh, feminine, and elegant worn with rated with crystals, beads and pearls, which both a white or ivory gown. In keeping with wraps around the hair, and is secured by an the simplicity of this ’s newest under- elastic band hidden under the hair, close to stated and bare gowns, the scale of the pearl is the neck. smaller and more delicate. A bride’s personal Embellished barrettes have been replaced style will dictate whether she will mirror the by silk floral and crystal decorated bobbie simplicity of the gown and wear a single pins, which are ideal for bridesmaids, and to strand, or opt for a play of multiple strands. hold the bride’s hair in place if she takes off (Even with multiple her veil for the reception. strands, it’s all about Gloving It! There is something inherently the smaller-scaled glamorous about , (mid forearm) or pearl.) For added elbow length gloves. They are the perfect sparkle, look for year-round complement to bare styling for the strands with inter- bride and her maids. Brides will opt for white spersed crystals in or ivory and bridesmaids will wear gloves in a tints of periwinkle, color that coordinates with their dress. pink or soft blues. What’s the Bag? - The message with bags Shawl for All - for bridesmaids are small structured shapes in The bridal shawl has colors that coordinate with their dresses. Bags become the must-have with floral detailed trim and structured handles accessory this season. look newest. The bride can wear to Shoe Business - Shoes for the bride are and from the reception strappy, with chunky heels. Brides will opt in a fabric that coordinates for white or ivory to match their gown, while with her gown. Shawls will bridesmaids will have dyed-to-coordinate or be decorated with embroidery or silver and black heels.

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2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 9 ACCESSORIES Princess bride The right headpiece can be your crowning glory

f there is one single defining Most often the formality of the ceremony bridal accessory, it is the will determine a bride’s headpiece choice. Whatever headpiece she wears, there is some- Iheadpiece. thing breathtaking about a bride beneath A sheer veil draping over the shoulders and the translucent veil and the line of the sheer a blusher giving a soft focus to the face trans- fabric draping over her shoulders and down forms a girl in a wedding gown into a tree her back. bride. The best headpieces flatter the bride’s Tiara – To complement the newest bare facial shape, and compliment the wedding bridal gown styles, tiaras are the ultimate gown in style, and detailing. sophisticated accent. They are seen in wear- Tiaras take the spotlight this season and able interpretations of pearls, crystal and are never less than dazzling. At the same time rhinestone combinations. Tiaras can be worn they are the perfect understated match for the with upswept hair, very Audrey Hepburn, ala newest spare and bare wedding gown designs. “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” or alarmingly mod- This jeweled accent enables a bride the perfect ern atop a cropped cut. Either way, detachable chance to indulge in a kind of special dressing veils create versatility and can be removed up that only comes with being a bride. after the ceremony. Bun Wrap – For an elegant focus on the face, the bun wrap is a natural choice. A bride with hair long can play up the line of a long neck and set off high cheekbones by pulling her hair into a bun and tucking it through the headpiece. Waterfall – The term waterfall comes from the waterfall-like drape of the sheer fabric that frames the face. For her convenience and comfort, the long veil is removed during the reception. Cathedral – Cathedral length veils are the most dramatic of headpieces because of the long floor-length veil. This style will enable the bride to make an impact with her entrance and offer an equally striking view from the back during the ceremony. Crown – The most traditional headpiece style often has either pearl or crystal-like detailing. It is worn towards the back, on the crown of the head, and works best with hair that is pulled back. Backpiece – A back-piece looks like its name. It is worn towards the back and it allows the bride the option of wearing her hair swept back in a low chignon or down. Headband – A bridal headband gives the bride the sophisticated look of pulling her hair off her face and enables her to wear it up or down.

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2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 11 PLANNING Wedding planner checklist What to do and when to do it from beginning to end

his is a very exciting time in your life. However, once the excitement is over, you may be hit with the realization of planning a wedding ceremony Tand a reception. This task at times may seem overwhelming. Wedding planning does not necessarily have to be stressful. In the African tradition of Maat, the queen and king share equally in all phases and duties of the planning process.

immediately after the : o Share your needs and desires (spiritual, physical, emotional, mental) o Share you strengths and weaknesses o Share your expectations of your mate and your union o Discuss money issues o Discuss career ambitions and leisure pursuits o Discuss religion and spirituality o Discuss cultural similarities and differences o Discuss producing offspring o Discuss fears, uncertainties and doubts o Seek out the wisdom of the elders o Pray and meditate

6 to 12 months before your union: o Discuss attending cultural classes or undergoing rites of passage o Set a budget o Decide wedding particulars (type of ceremony, clergy, date, time of day, location, color scheme, etc.) o Make reservations for the wedding and reception locations o Make reservations for the wedding props (chairs, arches, etc.) o Rough draft of wedding list o Finalize wedding party participants as soon as possible o Start selecting service providers (photographers, videographers, drum- mers, dancers) o Select the wedding attire for Queen, King and wedding court

12 IMANI Wedding Guide 2011 o Attend cultural classes, undergo rites of passage, or counseling if needed or required o Order wedding rings, ankhs, etc. '(KG[ZOL[R o Establish registry, if needed 9SORK,UX?U[X 3 to 6 months before your union: o Complete guest list and order invitiations, programs, stationery =KJJOTM*G_ o Confirm wedding locations o Confirm date, times and locations with your service providers o Sign contracts with service providers if needed o Finalize honeymoon plans o Finalize wedding attire choices (shoes, accessories, etc.) o Discuss transportation needs o Order cake Our office offers: ■ Porcelain Veneers - a perfect smile SPECIAL ■ Implants - like your real teeth DISCOUNT Two months before your union: ■ Zoom Teeth Whitening - 12 Shades in one hour o Mail wedding invitations ■ Root Canal Treatment - completed in one visit o Complete delayed tasks and/or tasks that might have slipped ■ Dexis - Digital X-rays o Arrange for , passports, etc. ■ o Order , ankhs, stools, ceremonial dolls, candles and other small Partial Dentures- Flexible & Lightweight ■ White Fillings - Natural looking We participate wedding props with several o Order small for the invitees Conveniently located at: 1655 Flatbush Avenue dental insurances Payment options Phillip Howard Coop Apts, Ste. A104 available including 1 month before your union: (Near Flatbush Junction) 0% financing o Plan rehearsal activities o Make a record of the gifts received o Start a preliminary seating chart #ALLTODAYFORANAPPOINTMENTs718-377-1319 o Purchase gifts for the wedding party Dr. Tracey Joseph o Reserved housing for out-of-town guests and VIPs. All major credit cards accepted o Make an appointment with a nutritional advisor o Schedule final fittings and make appointments for salons, barber shops o Finalize wedding and reception details (protocols, receiving line, placement of cameras) Eleyze’s Elegant Cover Ups Fine Linen Rentals for Your Wedding 2 weeks before your union: o Notify media o Confirm all details (transportation, housing, service providers, expect- ed arrival time for vendors and expectations) o Arrange to have the videographers and photographers at the rehearsal o Start a 14 day nutritional fast — does wonders combatting stress and will give you a wedding day glow

One week before your union: o Finalize seating arrangements o Confirm the rehearsal day and time with the wedding party and clergy o Last fitting of attire including shoes and accessories o Practice putting on attire, headpiece or crown, shoes, accessories, make-up o Confirm deliver of rings, marriage certificate o Seek out the wisdom of the elders DON’T SETTLE FOR ORDINARY SETTINGS! o Pray and meditate We specialize in beautiful table & chair linens Your wedding day: Call for Appointment o Pray and meditate 718 421 0841 o Eat a small vegetarian meal o Start dressing a few hours before the ceremony 347 204 3235 o Relax and enjoy yourself! www.eeclinens.vpweb.com o Break your fast after the wedding ceremony o Thank the elders for their words of wisdom [email protected]

2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 13 PLANNING Catering to your needs Pick a date and find the right reception hall eddings can be very complicated endeavors to pull off. Far more than putting on fancy clothes, strolling down Wthe aisle and saying, “I do,” a successful wedding is a testament to a couple’s ability to plan and juggle multiple tasks. One of the biggest tasks a couple must your preference of round tables or handle is choosing a reception hall. Since tables as well. most couples choose a religious facility based Q: What is the capacity? on where they attend services or where they A: This can often be researched via the attended growing up, that decision is often Internet. If your wedding party is going to be easier than choosing where the couple and large, there’s no sense in driving to a locale their guests will go to let loose once the cer- that can’t accommodate larger crowds. Some emony’s over. Couples facing the dilemma reception halls feature rooms for smaller of where to host their crowds and rooms for larger . post-wedding party Q: What about the catering? should ask the follow- A: Some reception halls insist customers ing questions when on use their kitchen staff, while others allow the hunt for a recep- outside caterers to come in. Oftentimes, halls tion hall. that require on-site staff do the cooking also Q: When is the require a minimum number of guests. In hall available? addition, those that permit private caterers A: If you’ve might charge extra to allow kitchen usage to already chosen a outside vendors. wedding date, this is Q: What service styles are available? obviously the most A: Food and drinks can be served cocktail important question to style, formal, or buffet style. Couples should ask. If you haven’t determine what they want, but should also pinned down a date keep in mind that buffet style serving is often yet, perhaps a favorite less expensive. hall’s availability can Q: How can drinks be served? help you determine A: The bar service can range from a full when to walk down open bar (often the most expensive) to only the aisle. Just remember that many houses of certain drinks offered at the open bar (i.e., worship frown on picking a date and booking beer is open bar, mixed drinks cost guests with a reception hall without securing the per drink) to individuals paying for their own ceremony first. drinks all night, called a cash bar. Q: How much? Q: How late is the reception hall open? A: Different places charge different prices, A: Most reception halls will stay open until and with the escalating costs of weddings around midnight before informing guests it’s these days, this should be the question you closing time. Some halls, however, might ask immediately after learning of the hall’s close earlier. Make sure the party hours are availability. It’s also good to have a number spelled out in your contract. in mind with respect to how much you can Q: What is the refund policy? spend on the reception. A: This can be an important question to It’s also wise to ask what’s included in the ask in the unfortunate case an emergency fee. Some halls, believe it or not, charge extra arises and the wedding is moved or the for tables, chairs and linens. Be sure to state couple calls off the wedding.

14 IMANI Wedding Guide 2011 2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 15 PLANNING 10 tips for your nuptials Don’t be clueless when it comes to your perfect day hen it comes to planning a wedding, it can be a chore at Wtimes. From the dress to the reception, there’s a million and one details to look after. Here’s a handy list of 15 helpful tips to help you plan and remember everything for your big day.

1. Always get a proof (a sample print) of have a computer, try keeping all the wedding your wedding invitations from the stationer details on file so it can be quickly updated or printer before giving the go-ahead to have and printed off. them printed up. Check through the proof 4. A good map. We’ve all been to enough very carefully to ensure there are no printing weddings to know that some churches are errors and that times and venues are correct. impossible to find. A good map with well 2. Make sure you have more items on your thought out and clear instructions is an abso- wedding present list than you have wedding lute must to ensure that everyone arrives on guests. It can be awkward if you get the same time. present from two or more people. It also allows 5. Order Of Service sheets at church wed- for gifts from people who cannot attend. dings. These can be easily overlooked and 3. Always keep a constantly updated list often become part of the last minute rush. of who’s coming to your wedding in case of Make sure you have one for every guest plus changes. Make sure these have several con- a few extra to hand. tact numbers for each person — like home 6. Thank You cards. If you want these AND work numbers — so that you can make done in the same style as your invitations, quick, pain-free re-arrangements. If you they should be ordered at the same time. 7. Double check details with your pho- tographer. Once you have gone through the business of booking a photographer, ensure that you send them your requirements in writing and get a confirmation slip from them. 8. If you are having a video made, check with your minister that the service can be filmed. Most are agreeable, but some object to having a video of such an important cer- emony. 9. Ensure that the church, register office or hotel don’t mind handfuls of being thrown around their entrances. Some might prefer you to use rice or sugar paper. A simple check will avoid any bad feeling. 10. Before booking a reception at a hotel or restaurant, try the food for yourself. A nicely laid out menu does not guarantee good food and it’s a good excuse for the bride and groom to go out for a few romantic meals before their big day.

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2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 17 PLANNING A-LINE: or Princess gowns have vertical seams flowing from the shoulders down to a flared skirt (creating an ‘A’ shape). Ascot: a man’s broad necked scarf fastened with tie tack or stick pin. B2B: an abbreviation for ‘bride-to-be’. BM: abbreviation used for ‘’. GOWN: or ballerina gown, is the most traditional wedding gown. It has a full bodice and a synched waistline that falls into a full skirt. BASQUE: refers to a style of waistline that drops 2-inches below the natural waist and often dips into a point in the center. BATISTE: a light transparent wedding gown fabric. BLUSHER: the tuft of veil that covers the bride’s face. BOMBONIERE: an Italian term for ‘guest favors’, given to wedding guests as a keepsake in appreciation of their attendance. BOUTONNIÈRE: a tiny flower arrangement usually attached to the left lapel of the jacket. Boutonnieres can be worn by grooms, attendants, ushers, and the bride’s and groom’s fathers. From the French term ‘button.’ Your BROCADE: a thick woven fabric with raised designs, typical in Victorian wedding gowns and traditionally popular in fall and winter wedding gowns. Buttercream Icing: the most popular icing is made of butter, confectionery sugar and milk. wedding CASCADE: a style of bridal bouquet, a waterfall of flowers and greenery anchored to a hand-held base. CHARMEUSE: a lightweight, semi-lustrous fabric, much like satin. CHIFFON: made from silk or rayon, is sheer and transparent, so it’s often layered. A popular fabric for the overskirts, sheer sleeves and glossary wraps of wedding gowns. CHOCOLATE GANACHE: a thick wedding cake icing made of choco- late and heavy cream. Essential terms you need Classic Hand-Tied Bouquet: a handmade collection of blooms, usu- to know for the big day ally tied with ribbon. CORSAGE: from the French ‘bust’. A corsage is an arrangement of flowers pinned to the bodice of a woman’s dress. Corsages come in ll weddings are different of course, but pin-on, wrist and hand-held styles. Corsages are typically worn by nevertheless they also have many things in mothers and grandmothers. common. So here is a look at some of the CORSET: A form-fitting, strapless or spaghetti-strap bodice with A boning and lace-up or snap closures. terms and definitions that are associated with them. CREPE: a lightly thin fabric with a crinkled effect. DAMASK: like brocade it has raised designs, but is lighter in weight. DOWRY: an endowment which a bride brings to her husband in marriage. DUCHESSE SATIN: a silk and rayon hybrid woven to look like satin. EMPIRE: a style of gown with a high waistline (right under the bust) which falls to a slimmer skirt, popular with medieval wedding gowns. FIANCÉ: French for a betrothed man. FIANCÉE: French for a betrothed woman. FMIL: a computer abbreviation for future mother-in-law.

18 IMANI Wedding Guide 2011 FONDANT: this thick wedding cake icing has a gummy, porcelain finish perfect for making confectionary flowers and faux pearls. G2B: an abbreviation for ‘groom-to-be’. GARLAND: adorns pews and tables; a woven rope of flowers or ribbon. GEORGETTE: A sheer fabric of polyester/silk with a crinkle crepe- like surface. GROOM’S CAKE: a smaller wedding cake; themed to the groom’s interests. HALTER: a sleeveless bodice that wraps at the neck. ILLUSION: sheer net-like fabric used for the sleeves or necklines of wedding gowns. MATRON OF HONOR: the bride’s main attendant; is married. MOH: an acronym for ‘maid of honor’; isn’t married. NOSEGAY: also called a ‘tussy mussy’; a round cluster of flowers wrapped tightly with ribbon or lace for a delicate effect; popular in Victorian times. OFF-THE-SHOULDER: a neckline that sits below the shoulders or drapes over the upper arm. ORGANDY: stiff transparent dress fabric. ORGANZA: similar to tulle, but flows freer in wedding gown skirts, sleeves and overlays. PORTRAIT: like off-the-shoulder neckline, scoops from the tip of one shoulder to another. SATIN: the most popular wedding gown fabric, glossy on one side. SHEATH: a slim, body-hugging silhouette. SAVE THE DATE CARDS: informal announcements which precede the wedding invitations by several months ahead, ideal for wed- dings close to major holidays. SCOOP: a U-shaped wedding gown neckline. SILK: The most expensive and rich wedding dresses fabric; there are several different textures, but most are smooth, glossy and sleek. STRAPLESS: a wedding bodice without straps. Sweetheart: a wedding dress neckline that resembles the top half of a heart. TAFFETA: a slightly crunchy fabric with a slight ribbing effect. TAILS: a formal tuxedo coat that’s short in front and has two long tails in the back. TIERS: stacked layers of cake. TOPIARY: flowers or foliage trimmed into miniature trees or animals. TRUNK SHOW: held by bridal shops; allows bridal gown designers to show their designs. TULLE: used in wedding skirts and veils; silk, nylon or rayon net- ting. TUSSY MUSSY: a small Victorian era bridal bouquet, carried in a hand-held vase. VELVET: a thick, soft fabric similar in effect to felt and often used for winter wedding gowns and wraps. V-NECK: also called a plunging neckline or low-cut neckline, dips down in the front.

2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 19 FOR THE GROOM Shopping tips for the groom Look like a million bucks on the big day or the groom, going shopping can be overwhelming at the best of times but when it’s for such a big day, you’ll most probably Fneed some help. Don’t feel bad about it, it’ll be far more fun and will prevent stress-induced bad buys. This is your big moment too and you want to get it right. Here are some tips to help you do just that.

• Don’t rush into anything. Take time to read would wear to the office. lots of magazines for inspiration. If you’re • Make sure you wash and iron your shirt the still not getting anywhere, consult a profes- day before so that you don’t end up with sional style counselor and ignore this guide. unsightly, un-ironable fold marks. • With the information gleaned from your • Morning suit wearers (grooms, best men and research, set a realistic budget for your fathers of the bride, traditionally) should wedding outfit taking everything into remember that cravats are worn by the account and stick to it, rigidly. groom and best man only. It’s ties for every- • Start your shopping process well in advance one else. of the wedding (preferably several months), • Morning suit wearers should remember that particularly if you’re having something traditionally, their coat should be black in such as a waistcoat, frockcoat or Star Trek the morning and gray in the afternoon. suit made, as your tailor will require lots of • Always leave the bottom button of your warning. The same applies if you are hiring waistcoat undone — but don’t ask why. an outfit — you might need to make altera- • Your buttonhole should be made of the tions, which take time. same flowers as your bride’s bouquet. • Get yourself accurately measured for every- • Never have a waistcoat matching your tie thing from waistcoats to suits. and handkerchief. Instead, choose a color • Don’t buy anything tight fitting. it may give from the waistcoat and select your tie you bulges in all the right places but it is accordingly. guaranteed to become devilishly uncomfort- • If you’re wearing a cravat, ensure you wear able after all that nuptial nosh and those a high-necked waistcoat so that the cravat bottles of bubbly. can be tucked in neatly with minimal fear • Buy your wedding shoes at least a month of escape. before your wedding and wear them in as • Make sure your trousers are the right length, you don’t want to be begging the chief neither too long nor too short and that the bridesmaid for elastoplasts at the recep- sleeves of your jacket allow for an inch of tion. Not very manly. the shirt cuff to be seen. • Coordinate your outfit to your Bride’s • On the morning of the ceremony, don’t go by asking her for small details about her to the bar to get some courage, go have a own dress. Whatever you do, don’t force professional shave and manicure instead. information out of her or make her spill the That way you’ll be just as relaxed as if beans if she really doesn’t want to. No does you’d downed a couple, you don’t risk mean No, after all. blood on your collar and your hands will • An ivory shirt looks better than a white one, look simply lovely when you exchange which can often look like something you rings.

20 IMANI Wedding Guide 2011 2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 21 PLANNING BUDGETING YOUR WEDDING Financial planning is the key to an unforgettable event

nless money is not an issue, you will need a wedding budget. Your budget is the one factor that is likely to have the most influence on your Uwedding. Carefully determining the budget will dictate the size, style and magnitude of your event. Your budget may force and/or demand changes in your spending habits and leisure activities.

Listed below are the • Invitations, announcements, reception typical costs associated and thank you cards with an African wedding • Kings’s attire including crown and acces- and a few tips for saving sories money and still having an • Marriage license unforgettable wedding. • Music — DJ, band, performers The cost is usually not • Nutritional counselor categorized into his and • Photography and videography her responsibilities, but rather • Queen’s gown, including headpiece and shared equally. accessories • Cake • Reception catering • Clergy • Rehearsal expenses • Cultural classes, rites of pas- • Rings and other jewelry for Queen and sage or counseling King • Dancers, drummers • Transportation rentals • Fee for ceremony locations • Wedding attire for wedding party • Gifts for the attendees • Gifts for the wedding party • Wedding consultant • Guestbook • Wedding/reception site accessories and • Honeymoon props — chairs, stools, Ankhs, arches • Housing and travel • Wedding/reception site decorations — expenses for wedding party plants, fabric, table cameras, , and VIPs floral arrangements

22 IMANI Wedding Guide 2011 Tips on cutting costs also affect location, catering and : prop prices. • Order the standard album or see if you Flowers: • Consider renting a small inn to host your can order the package without the album • Use balloons instead of flowers to add wedding. Some inns will coordinate your and receive a discount. color to a reception site; they can be whole wedding and reception while oth- • Check the photographer’s price structure. especially effective for a large room with ers leave the planning entirely to you. Some may agree to shoot your wedding high ceilings. You can make the wedding and reception for less on off-peak days and times. Saturday afternoon and evening are usu- • Try to choose flowers that are in season. part of the weekend activities. By book- ally the busiest times. Avoid exotic, expensive flowers that may ing the inn, the guests pay for most of • Talk with your photographer and make have to be imported. your wedding and reception expenses. sure you receive all negatives. You can Try not to have your wedding near a big • Consider holding your wedding and take your negatives and get them devel- (Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day) reception at a public park, lake, garden oped somewhere else and save. when prices of flowers are inflated. or beach. The fee is usually the nominal • Use greenery such as trees and garlands price of a getting an official license and Wedding attire: to decorate large areas. the various permissions that are needed. • Order the garment in a less expensive • Use the same floral arrangements for both fabric. If the garment style you like is out the ceremony and reception. Bouquets Music: of your price range, see if the garment can be used to decorate the cake and • Hire student dancers, drummers and can be made in a less expensive fabric. guest book tables. Floral table arrange- musicians from a local university. Often • Alterations can be very expensive, so ments may be grouped together and times student performers are just as good keep them to the minimum. Order the placed on the sides of the altar. as professionals and yet are considerably less expensive. closest size to your largest measurement. • Hire fewer performers. To keep the costs Avoid expensive changes such as altera- Location and season: tions to the train length or style of sleeve. • Off-season airfare and hotel reservations down when you want live music at the reception, opt for a band with fewer • Wedding attire may be rented. Some may save you thousands on guest lodging stores rent both dressy and and honeymoon travel. Seasonal rates musicians or hire a single performer. • Use pre-recorded music. bridal garments.

2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 23 INVITATIONS Inviting your guests in style Everything you need to know about your announcement ompiling a guest list is, invitations are always written in the third per- for many couples, the son. Spell everything out…the wedding date, time, all numerals and names. Abbreviations, Cmost difficult part of initials and nicknames are never used except their wedding plans. for Mr. or Mrs., Jr. or Dr. and Lt. Colonel. Note: “The honour of your presence” You should first determine the size of your (spelled with the u) on the invitation indicates wedding based on budget. Then, generally, a religious ceremony, while “the pleasure of that number is divided into thirds between your company” indicates a civil service. the couple’s friends and those of each of the Be sure to order enough invitations…one for two families. Whenever possible, all guests every married couple, each single adult guest, should be invited to both the wedding and the each attendant and their parents (if invited), reception. your attendants’ dates (if single), everyone in Your can help set the the groom’s family and of course, your clergy- mood and style for you wedding. You will find man and guest. selections from traditional designs with formal Order extras for emergencies and keepsakes. wording, to contemporary designs, which may Extra are a must…this will allow for incorporate your own specially created mes- any mistakes you may make when addressing. sage. For beautiful hand addressing of your invita- Formal wedding invitations are usually ther- tions, a bride may turn to a calligrapher. mographed or engraved, and ordered well Hand address all envelopes in blue or black ahead to allow time for them to be addressed ink. Remember, use full names…no initials. and mailed six weeks before the wedding. The Your invitation is inserted into the inner enve- most popular size is 4 1/2 x 5 1/4, which fits lope with enclosure cars, and printed side fac- into an without folding. A larger 5 ing the back flap. Insert this inner envelope into 1/2 x 7 1/2 invitation is used for very formal your addressed envelope. weddings. Your printer will be able to show you vari- Remember to Order ous styles and appropriate wording. Remember, • Response Cards: (R.S.V.P.) if space is limited at the ceremony or if you are planning to serve a meal. • Ceremony Cards: to invite a limited num- ber of guests to the ceremony. • Reception Cards: to limit the number of guests invited to the reception. Receptions cards are sometimes used even when everyone is invited to both the ceremony and the recep- tion, or you may on the invitation, “reception to follow at…” • Pew Cards: special seating for friends and relatives. • Thank You notes… and most importantly, be sure to send them as soon as possible.

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2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 25 JEWELRY Know your ‘4 C’s’ CULPEPPER’S “NO FUNCTION IS TOO BIG OR SMALL WE DO THEM ALL” You better shop around before buying a diamond 1082 Nostrand Avenue (corner of Lincoln Road) UÊ7 Ê-*ÊUÊ n engagement ring is a • Internally Flawless: No internal inclusions/ /i\Ê­Ç£n®Ê™{ä‡{£ÓÓÊUʙ{ä‡Óx{{ÊUʙ{ä‡ään£ WORLDWIDE long-lasting symbol of slight external inclusions. • Very Very Slightly Included: Minute inclu- VISIT US AT 777° 1* ** ,- ,  1- ° " ÊUÊEmail:[email protected] your love, so undoubt- A sions hard to detect by an experienced grad- MEAT FROM THE BAKERY WE CATER FOR edly you will expect it to last the er. Oxtail Choice/Light Sweet UÊ7  - test of time. • Very Slightly Included: Minute inclusions seen only under10x magnification. Stew Beef Coconut Bread UÊ ,/ 9Ê*,/ - To choose a quality diamond ring informed • Slightly included: Easily seen by experienced Curry Goat Turnovers UÊ-7 /Ê£È diamond shoppers should be aware of the graders. PUDDING ‘four C’s’ of diamonds — cut, carat, color • Included: Visible to the naked eye and includ- Pork Chops Salt Bread UÊ, ‡*-/ & SOUSE and clarity. ed enough to affect brilliance. Lamb Tennis Rolls UÊ  9Ê-"7 ,- Cut: Many people think that cut refers to Cut is considered to be the most impor- FISH Wheat Loaf UÊ ,-/  - the shape of the diamond, but it actually refers tant of the 4C’s because a well cut diamond Rock Cakes UÊ*,6/ É ""* ,/ Ê*,/ - to the way the diamond allows light to reflect sparkles more than any other gem. Exact little Red Snapper from it. Since the proportions of a diamond planes called facets direct rays of light into the King Fish Lead Pipes Reg. UÊ, 1/" - determine its brilliance, a well cut diamond diamond. The light is then reflected Escovitich Lead Pipes Wheat UÊ 1, Ê1 /" - lets light enter and reflects straight back outward, creating the diamond’s fire Lemon Cake UÊ7" - Ê / ,  to the viewer’s eye. In case of cut, bigger and brilliance. Fire is the intensity of Flying Fish (1 fish) isn’t better, as some cutters sacrifice the rainbow of colors emanating Flying Fish (2 fish) Plain Cake cut to create the largest possible from a diamond, and brilliance Red Herring Cheese Cake w/topping diamond. Cut is graded on a is the liveliness of a diamond. Cod Fish Fruit Cake scale of ‘ideal’, ‘premium’, It’s important to distinguish Jam Puff ‘very good’, and ‘good’, between the cut and the “shape” Corn Meal Cou-cou ‘’, and ‘poor’. of a diamond. Breadfruit Cou-cou Currant Carat: Refers to the size of Clarity is determined by the degree Pone the stone. While some shoppers to which a diamond is free from natural inter- CHICKEN look for carat above all, others prefer a small, nal inclusions or imperfections. Most diamonds Stewed Chicken ROTI SOUP simple stone regardless of budget. It’s best to contain some inclusions, visible only through Curried Chicken Vegetable Chicken consider how flashy your fiancée’s other jew- a jeweller’s loupe, the magnifying instrument elry is. If she isn’t big on the ‘bling bling’ you professionals use to examine and evaluate Fried Chicken Chicken Beef might opt for a smaller stone. gemstones. Baked Chicken Beef Fish Color: With the exception of J-Lo’s pink In a diamond, the best colour is no colour, Jerk Chicken Goat Cowheel diamond, the less color a diamond has gener- allowing the stone to cleanly reflect and refract Peas & Rice. Split Peas & Rice, Oxtail Chicken Leg ally means it’s worth more. Jewelers grade dia- light. Diamonds are rated for colour on a letter White Rice or Black Eye peas monds on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light scale beginning with D, which is perfectly col- CUTTERS yellow). Anything higher than light yellow is orless, to Z, the lowest colour rating. considered a fancy amber diamond and is much Carat refers to the weight of the diamond, SIDE ORDERS Cheese Cutters more expensive. not its size. There are 100 points in a carat. Macaroni Pie Ham Cutters Clarity: Refers to a diamond’s lack of Therefore, a diamond of 50 points weighs 1/2 Potato Salad Flying Fish Cutters CONKIES blemishes and inclusions. The fewer blemishes of a carat. Larger diamonds of one carat or Cole Slaw King Fish Cutter UÊ-ÌiÜÊ Õ“«ˆ˜}Ê a diamond has the more valuable and brilliant more are rare and of greater value per carat. UÊ*>ޓiÊ it is. Most diamonds have small flaws, air Understanding what makes every diamond Tossed Salad bubbles, scratches, etc., so it is wise to inspect different ensures that your engagement ring Fried Plantain JUICES UÊ œÕV>˜>ÕÝ a diamond and choose one which hides these will be a unique symbol of enduring quality French Fries Mauby UÊ ÕiÊ À>ÜiÀÃÊ imperfections down deep in the stone or under and love. Remember to shop from a reputable Sorrel UÊ œÞœ hidden prongs. jeweller and request a detailed, written gem- Fish Cake A diamond’s clarity scale is: ological evaluation of any significant stone you sWE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS AND PERSONAL CHECKS • Flawless: No internal/external inclusions. choose to buy.

26 IMANI Wedding Guide 2011 CULPEPPER’S “NO FUNCTION IS TOO BIG OR SMALL WE DO THEM ALL” 1082 Nostrand Avenue (corner of Lincoln Road) UÊ7 Ê-*ÊUÊ /i\Ê­Ç£n®Ê™{ä‡{£ÓÓÊUʙ{ä‡Óx{{ÊUʙ{ä‡ään£ WORLDWIDE VISIT US AT 777° 1* ** ,- ,  1- ° " ÊUÊEmail:[email protected] MEAT FROM THE BAKERY WE CATER FOR Oxtail Choice/Light Sweet UÊ7  - Stew Beef Coconut Bread UÊ ,/ 9Ê*,/ - Curry Goat Turnovers UÊ-7 /Ê£È PUDDING Pork Chops Salt Bread UÊ, ‡*-/ & SOUSE Lamb Tennis Rolls UÊ  9Ê-"7 ,- FISH Wheat Loaf UÊ ,-/  - Red Snapper Rock Cakes UÊ*,6/ É ""* ,/ Ê*,/ - King Fish Lead Pipes Reg. UÊ, 1/" - Escovitich Lead Pipes Wheat UÊ 1, Ê1 /" - Flying Fish (1 fish) Lemon Cake UÊ7" - Ê / ,  Flying Fish (2 fish) Plain Cake Red Herring Cheese Cake w/topping Cod Fish Fruit Cake Corn Meal Cou-cou Jam Puff Breadfruit Cou-cou Currant Pone CHICKEN Stewed Chicken ROTI SOUP Curried Chicken Vegetable Chicken Fried Chicken Chicken Beef Baked Chicken Beef Fish Jerk Chicken Goat Cowheel Peas & Rice. Split Peas & Rice, Oxtail Chicken Leg White Rice or Black Eye peas CUTTERS SIDE ORDERS Cheese Cutters Macaroni Pie Ham Cutters Potato Salad Flying Fish Cutters CONKIES Cole Slaw King Fish Cutter UÊ-ÌiÜÊ Õ“«ˆ˜}Ê Tossed Salad UÊ*>ޓiÊ Fried Plantain JUICES UÊ œÕV>˜>ÕÝ French Fries Mauby UÊ ÕiÊ À>ÜiÀÃÊ Fish Cake Sorrel UÊ œÞœ

sWE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS AND PERSONAL CHECKS

2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 27 TIPS Top 10 proposal mistakes What you need to know before popping the question ake no mistake men — fidants.” Sharing the news with friends it’s not just a diamond and family is more exciting if you do it together. Mthat’s “forever.” 4: Forgetting her family — Pull your manners When it comes to proposals, the memories of out of the closet and call the appropri- the pomp and circumstance that accompany the ate member of her family for “the talk.” question last just as long. After all, your intended According to a recent survey conducted by will be repeating her proposal story to everyone Korbel1, 42 percent of Americans feel the she knows, so how the proposal unfolds is just act of asking a woman’s family for her hand as important as the ring. — Whether it be her father, mother or even a According to diamond and proposal expert sibling — is still a time-honored tradition. Fred Cuellar, author of “How to Buy a Diamond” 5: Playing hide and seek with the ring — Imagine and “The World’s Greatest Proposals,” one-third you’re about to propose to your girlfriend of all take place during the last when she swallows the ring because you quarter of the year. “cleverly” hid it in an ice cream cone or After researching more than 10,000 proposal cocktail. Sending your fiancée to the emer- stories and spending years in the industry advis- gency room might not be the best way to ing men on popping the question, Cuellar has start your future. compiled this list of mistakes to avoid, ensuring 6: Staging a practical joke — Minutes before your proposal is blissful: the proposal, throwing your girlfriend off by Top 10 mistakes men convincing her that you’re in jail or that you make while proposing won’t be ready for marriage for years could 1: Proposing on a holiday or birthday — have unintended consequences. Consider picking a day meaningful to your 7: Missing the VIP treatment — Do your relationship, such as the anniversary research and you’ll find that many venues of your first date. Your girlfriend are happy to create a special setting for your wants her day to shine — don’t proposal. For example, many theaters will propose on a holiday that can’t schedule private screenings, restaurants can be yours as a couple. provide champagne toasts and amusement 2: Allowing other women to try parks can offer private rides. on the ring — It’s smart to get 8: Exhibiting suspicious behavior — As propos- a second opinion, but don’t al time approaches, make sure your behavior use your fiancée’s friends as remains consistent with how you act on a guinea pigs. Make sure daily basis. Repeatedly touching your pocket your fiancée is the to make sure the ring is secure and com- first of her friends ing up with off-the-wall excuses for your to see and wear whereabouts can both be giveaways to the her ring, and let bride-to-be. her enjoy the 9: Acting like you settled — A surefire way to fun of showing ruin any proposal is to start with any of the it off for the following statements: first time. – “You win.” 3: Leaking the – “We’re not getting any younger...” news — When – “In spite of what my mother says...” you’re ready to – “I have sowed my wild oats.” pop the question, 10: Losing sight of what the proposal is all about don’t spill the beans — Your proposal will be perfect if it is hon- to too many “con- est, heartfelt and passionate.

28 IMANI Wedding Guide 2011

AFTER THE WEDDING Making your dream home Compromise is the key to a happy marriage and living together

s it comes time to move rooms that express the two of you as a cou- ple; the right balance provides the harmony in with your partner, between them. you each may have “Respect each other’s personal style — A it’s challenging but necessary,” Mauriello your own idea of what your advises. Don’t suggest throwing out your dream home will be. Not talking significant other’s fish tournament trophy about your ideas early on in the or needlepoint pillows because they don’t process could mean trouble. fit with your decor. Getting rid of such per- sonal possessions is like telling your mate “Couples first moving in that you want to get rid of together may not appreciate him as well. Instead, get the significant challenges creative. And recognize that they’ll face when beginning it’s human nature to attach to create their dream home memories to things, albeit — and if not handled with a stuffed and mounted rain- care, the situation could eas- bow trout or otherwise. ily turn explosive,” warns “Organize and blend Rose Mauriello of Furniture. items from the past, while com, an online home fur- shopping for new furniture,” nishings retailer. she recommends. Start by “Since the average age agreeing on what to spend, for marriage has been on based on your budget and the rise in recent decades, other expectations. When it comes as no surprise that too many ideas are flying more people are flying solo around, try to find common before exchanging wedding ground by asking each other vows — giving them more to complete this sentence: time to develop their own style when buying “Every home must have...” their own home furnishings,” she says. Answer with the first thing that comes to So, to help keep the honeymoon on mind, but keep the list open for additions. track, Mauriello recommends that cou- Understand what’s needed to make your ples first moving in together must home special for both of you. compromise with each other, respect “Familiarize yourself with different furni- each other, organize their belong- ture styles and start looking for furniture you ings, and familiarize themselves with both can live with,” suggests Mauriello. Such furniture. pieces often have a clean, neutral design “Compromise is essential to quality. Then layer in your individual tastes living comfortably,” she notes. with smaller pieces of furniture and accesso- The key is mixing, not matching. ries. Study other sources of inspiration, such Bring together pieces that suit as home and decorating magazines, hand- both your interests and activities. some rooms in movies or on television, and Combining your two styles creates the decorating styles of friends and family.

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2011 IMANI Wedding Guide 31 HONEYMOON Planning your getaway Expert advice translates to a successful honeymoon

fter months of planning and saving for a wedding, a hon- eymoon offers one-on-one time for the couple to have fun, Adevelop a deeper relationship, and enjoy some much needed rest and relaxation.

Among couples who enjoy a traditional you book your honeymoon during an optimal wedding, statistics say that 99 percent take a time for the best conditions, both in regards to honeymoon. The average honeymoon costs weather and the local culture. approximately $5,000. Since a honeymoon • Save money: Putting honeymoon plans will account for at least 14 percent of the into the hands of an expert could add up to total wedding budget, couples want to ensure considerable savings. “Travel agents have that theirs is money well spent -- especially relationships with tour and package providers in an economy where every penny counts. that they can leverage in ways the average Preparation is the key to honeymoon success. consumer cannot,” offers Ellingboe. Turn to “Working with travel professionals that a honeymoon expert for honeymoon planning specialize in honeymoon and destination needs so your honeymoon can truly be a trip wedding planning can help ensure couples of a lifetime. have a memorable honeymoon,” says Scott • : Not just for budget- Ellingboe, CEO of The Honeymoon conscious brides- and grooms-to-be, consider (www.thehoneymoon.com), an online creating a honeymoon registry to give your honeymoon planning resource with a wedding guests an alternative to crock pots, honeymoon gift registry service and toasters and blenders. Wedding guests can a nationwide network of independent, improve your honeymoon experience by gift- experienced travel agents. “Whether ing the activities, excursions and dining expe- you’re a do-it-yourselfer or use a riences that make the trip memorable. travel expert, you’ll enjoy browsing • Pack a variety of clothing options: Bring the honeymoon package and resort a few different outfits of varying levels of for- listings and reading the entertain- mality so that you’ll have options on your trip. ing and informative stories in our Depending upon the resort or ship, there may multi-media digital magazine. You’re be specific dress codes at certain restaurants bound to find something you weren’t or meal times; you don’t want to be caught looking for that will help you cre- off-guard. Make sure your research includes ate a better honeymoon experience.” destination clothing requirements since what Additional tips provided are: is acceptable culturally varies widely across • Enjoy clear skies or bottomless the globe. blue water: Timing plays a large role • Read reviews: There’s a reason review in honeymoon travel. It’s important sites are so popular -- they help people make to research the average weather con- better, more informed decisions. Advertising ditions for prospective honeymoon gives you one perspective, reviews give you locales during the month you’ll be another. Make sure that you read reviews of traveling as well as any events that the places you are considering for your honey- may take place at that time. This way moon so that you get a variety of viewpoints.

32 IMANI Wedding Guide 2011

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Air Jamaica offers confirmed Lovebird Executive Class upgrades for the Bride & Groom when 20 or more wedding party guests travel on Air Jamaica.

Call our Groups Department today 800-523-6805

*Minimum 22 passengers (including bride and groom) required. Bride and groom will pay contracted group (coach) fare plus applicable taxes and fees. Available for bookings made through Air Jamaica Group Department only. Tickets are non-refundable once issued. Proof of wedding required. Certain fare types are not eligible for Bride & Groom Upgrade program. Upgrade to Lovebird Executive Class is subject to availability.