Wedding Planning

By this time of the year, there have been many weddings celebrated (Congrats newlyweds!). Although there’s still plenty of action happening before fall sets in, the nuptial agenda is winding down for most of us. That’s not to say there won’t be a beautiful winter wedding or two coming up; with less of a well-defined “wedding season” in favor of the freedom to set the date anytime you please, year-round affairs have become commonplace.

Rewinding back to where it all begins, for those who recently got engaged or who are ready to begin the planning process, let’s get into those details!

Getting engaged is a beautiful thing and one of life’s most memorable moments, as are the wedding festivities that follow. Many future brides and grooms are at that point in their journey now or will be soon. With much planning ahead it may seem overwhelming, but should ultimately be as enjoyable as possible as you put together all of the details to bring your vision to life. While this is an expansive list of items to cover, as each wedding is unique and there is so much to explore, there are certain essentials and guidelines that don’t change much.

You’ll be making a lot of decisions together, that’s a given. With the guidance of our local experts, the process and your experience during it will be less stressful and more pleasurable – a memorable one in all of the most wonderful ways.

{The Proposal: Where It All Begins}

We’ll be offering some fun engagement ideas from our local professionals throughout this story, but first thing’s first, before getting down on one knee, one must find the perfect ring. Well known here in Lincoln as “The Engagement Ring Store,” it’s a safe bet that you’ll find what you’re looking for at Sartor Hamann Jewelers. For those who have never been, what is most impressive is the selection, and combined with their expertise and superior customer service, you’re definitely in good hands. Sartor Hamann considers its best form of advertising to be the multiple generations of satisfied customers who continue to refer their loved ones back for high-quality jewelry service.

{(Save) The Date: Selecting The Venue & Setting The Scene}

You’re engaged, and now the wedding planning has officially begun. Where to start?

It’s best to have a few dates and venues in mind as the very first step. Then you’ll begin narrowing those down based on the availability of those venues, booking details, and research on other events or happenings that are going on at the same time to determine if there’s reason for eliminating them as possibilities.

Some of the main things you’ll be taking into consideration beyond availability on a specific date would be location, occupancy to accommodate your guest list, set-up and amenities, décor and ambiance, vendor partnerships and any restrictions on bringing in your own, and then there are potentially others based on your preferences. When meeting with the representatives at each venue, ask any and all of the questions you can think of that would impact your decision. You can even call to inquire about the specifics before setting a meeting to conserve time and energy.

There are many fantastic venues here in Lincoln and outside of the city but still in the general vicinity, with each having unique characteristics that make them desirable locations for a wedding, reception, or other related events.

“The Talon Room is the perfect venue to host your wedding reception, but what most do not know is that the venue is an ideal place to host many other exciting wedding-related event options,” says Matthew Rogge with Talon Room. “We offer the space for your ceremony, rehearsal dinner, and even for your anniversary party! The Talon Room is not only a great location for these types of events, but our Talon’td staff can help with every aspect of your wedding plans. My favorite saying is ‘We set it up…You make it a party!’TM.

The urban rustic flair is sure to inspire the creative decorator inside you, and we’ll come alongside to turn your vision into reality.

In fact, one trend that has stuck around for quite a while is the rustic wedding. Getting married in a barn for all of the farm to see is for some, but not for all. Sure, it’s great if you don’t mind sweating in the sweltering heat of a Nebraska summer. But the Talon Room offers a unique rustic venue, without the sweat! For your summer wedding, make sure to include the always trending air conditioning in your wedding venue.

When it comes to planning, I always tell every couple that they must enjoy the ride. Be mindful that some things are beyond your control, yet always plan for the unexpected. That is hard to do, but our Talon’td staff is always ready for whatever happens. It is always best to select your venue first, that way everything can be decided around the limits of your wedding space.”

Rogge also offers a piece of advice for those setting the stage for their engagement proposals. “Every man or woman looking to propose to his or her partner hopes to come up with the next big idea for their proposal. Even the most planned out idea sometimes falls short of their expectations. But, that doesn’t mean that it isn’t special! My favorite engagement idea is to video the entire occasion, without the knowledge of your partner, to help catch all of the spontaneous occurrences. This idea is fun for both of you to re-watch for inspiration as you plan your wedding.”

While some local venues have select offerings and booking will depend on your wants and needs, there are others that have it all, or at least pretty darn close.

“We are one of the only one-stop wedding venues in the Lincoln community,” says Jaclyn Howard with Venue Catering & Events. “Between all of our concepts and offerings, we provide the ideal location for everything from the engagement to celebrating your anniversary for years to come. At Venue Restaurant & Lounge, we have four private dining rooms that seat from 40-80 guests. We also have a formal dining room and a modern lounge. It can certainly be described as a romantic and elegant dining experience, making it the perfect place for an engagement party, bridal shower, or rehearsal dinner. When hosting your event at Venue Restaurant & Lounge we take care of the linens, china, candles, flowers, the set-up and the clean-up. You don’t have to worry about any of those details; all you have to focus on is having an amazing experience.

Then let us take care of you for the most important day of your life in our beautiful downtown ballroom, The Jasmine Room by Venue. This historic room seats up to 400 guests. It is an elegant space that you, your family and your friends will fall in love with at first sight. The timeless, chic look for a wedding is and always will be huge. Who doesn’t want pictures that will not only look fabulous today but also will in 50 years? The Jasmine Room by Venue is the essence of elegance.

Whether it’s for an event we are hosting or for catering at another site, Venue is an excellent choice. One big rule of thumb in wedding planning is to focus on the quality of food and not turn to a caterer who just gives the lowest price. Unfortunately, it’s entirely possible to end up with frozen, processed, low-quality food that was the cheapest route, and guests leave remembering that their dinner wasn’t the best. We understand the budget constraints of a wedding, but we’ll never sacrifice the quality of the product when we accommodate those budgets. At Venue, we do our best to fit every bride and groom’s needs but the one sacrifice we will never make is the quality and value of the food. Everything that we serve is fresh and made from scratch. You will taste and see the difference, whether that’s a taco bar, prime rib spread or BBQ pork sandwiches. We want your guests to walk away impressed, satisfied and full, whether that is a buffet or a plated dinner. Our food will do just that and set the right mood for the entire evening.

Or, if you are looking for something a little different for your engagement, let us make you dinner and bring it to you. We offer full-service catering and would love to be part of a romantic surprise.

When you have your wedding event with Venue you will receive the best service in Lincoln. We will work with you through the entire process. All of us at Venue are a family and we have a passion for food, love, and weddings. Let our family take care of yours and give you the wedding experience you deserve.”

She also touches on a popular request related to the wedding fare. “A big trend that we are starting to see, which I love, is fun food presentation. This is something that we at Venue have been into for years so I am so excited that it is becoming more and more popular. So many people eat with their eyes, so why not give your guests a spread that is visually delicious and then tastes even better?”

Beyond the city and well past anything here in Nebraska might be what you have your sights on as the backdrop for your wedding affair. Travel has become much more popular among couples, with destination weddings offering benefits that many enjoy. To set the stage for just about any wedding-related milestone – engagement, ceremony, honeymoon – there are places all over the world that could be the site of your dreams. When planning a destination wedding or honeymoon, the earlier you start, the more availability and options you will have to choose from. It’s also wise to enlist the services of a professional; one who is experienced in wedding-related travel will have plenty of inside information that will help to guide your decisions, put together an itinerary and coordinate any special details, find the best pricing and package deals, and help you avoid any surprises upon arrival or during your stay. This isn’t something you want to book without personal assistance as there are many variables to consider and of course, the fact that it’s one of the most important moments in your life. Freedom Travel serves clients in Lincoln, Omaha and surrounding areas, and can help you plan for whatever it is that would constitute your perfect wedding getaway.

You don’t necessarily have to travel the world to achieve the feel of a destination wedding either. If the scenic beauty of nature, the charm of the countryside, outdoor chic, or something similar is how you’d describe the setting of your dream wedding, Capitol View Winery & Vineyards has plenty of space to accommodate, and can be transformed into a stunning outdoor wedding venue that’s nothing short of magical.

In the opposite direction, James Arthur Vineyards is a local favorite and regularly hosts wedding-related events. Lyndsey Trujillo with James Arthur Vineyards offers an overview of how one could utilize the venue for any and all of the various wedding festivities:

“At James Arthur Vineyards we like to make everyone feel at home, including when we host special events. Our St. Croix room is the most intimate part of our tasting room, seating up to fifty people. The room overlooks both the St. Croix grape vines outside and the production area inside. This beautiful, sunny room features a stone fireplace, wine-tasting bar, catering kitchen, and French doors leading to a private deck. It’s perfect for a rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or a bachelor/bachelorette party. We partner with Dinner and Co. as our own personal caterer, and guests are free to be as simple or creative with their menu. James Arthur Vineyards also partners with the Rabbit Hole Bakery (located in the Haymarket) for those who are looking to have specialty desserts for their occasion. Our staff makes sure that all catering and desserts are picked up and available when guests arrive. Guests also have the choice to go on a tour throughout the vineyard or take a trip down to the cellar to experience the wine-making process at no additional expense. The wine truly speaks for itself, acting as the cherry on top of the special occasion. When you host an event at James Arthur Vineyard it’s an experience that lasts a lifetime.”

{The Photo Album: Memories That Will Last A Lifetime}

Your photographer (and possibly a videographer) should also be among the first on your checklist to book. The same holds true here – the best ones are in high demand.

The images from a wedding are treasured heirlooms that will be enjoyed for years to come. They’ll take your breath away the first time you lay eyes on them and allow you to relive the memories every time you look at them fondly, and those moments in time will live on through future generations. Since you only have one chance at capturing the perfect images during your special day, this is one thing with which it’s especially important not to take any chances. There are several critical factors to consider when selecting a photographer for your wedding. Then, it’s all about planning the day out based on the moments that are of the utmost importance to have captured.

“With anyone who will be involved, especially those interacting with your guests, how they present and carry themselves is too important to overlook,” cautions Gina Zabloudil with Zabloudil Photography. “With photography especially, don’t let your heart be led by the price tag. It’s a trap people fall into time and time again. Local reputable photographers have options that fit your budget without sacrificing quality, experience, or professionalism. If those are lacking, it’s a big factor on the wedding day, which in turn affects the outcome of the images that are created. Meet with several photographers, in person before you hire, and if that’s not a possibility afforded to you, it’s a red flag.

We provide personal service throughout, an approach that we find to work well with the dynamics of a wedding. When everyone is on the same page and there’s familiarity and trust built, there’s a higher comfort level and you can see it in the results.

Planning with an experienced professional photographer is advised to make the experience a good one and to capture the images that are desired. It’s all about having the details in place and a timeline established with your photographer and the other professionals involved. If you value photography, time has to be set aside have those images created. Instead of waiting until after the ceremony, most couples opt to do the formal family and wedding party images beforehand. To address the issue of seeing the bride preemptively, a first look moment is arranged, and it’s truly such a special moment. We follow that up with the couple poses because they are priority, and then the formals of the bridal party and family groupings. These are done while everyone looks amazing and will be out of the way before the wedding ceremony begins and festivities are in motion. The logistics of a wedding day flow better this way, and there will still be plenty more photo opportunities to come.

Since Chad and I work as a team, when you book with us, you’ll get the benefit of two professional photographers, at no added expense. More moments can be captured, with variety and differing perspectives, resulting in a more complete collection of images.”

She also notes, “Customization is a big part of weddings, and in our experience that extends into the images and the way they are displayed by couples. New for our 2018 wedding couples, we are offering our clients the ability to customize their wedding collections, based on the features they want to include. Options such as an engagement session, bridal session, and other service-based options and Wedding Albums, and high-quality photo products will be a la carte, so they are not mandatory as a part of a package but can be added based on preference. For modern weddings, many choose to have an Engagement Session, with the hired wedding photographer, at least a few months before, so they can be displayed at the wedding/reception.”

{The Reception: Eat, Drink & Be Merry}

For weddings, there’s quite an emphasis on entertaining your guests and making it a memorable event for all. The décor, the fare, the flowers, the music – all of these along with any other special touches you add will set the mood and make it magical.

While it’s common for special event venues to provide catering and bar services for those who book the space, others may not but will be able to present you with recommendations. Only once you’ve had the opportunity to discuss with your venue what is offered and/or allowed should you make your selection. It’s essential to understand the specifics of whether booking that venue means you are entering into an agreement to use their exclusive catering services or partners, or if you have your heart set on a specific company, that you are able to bring them in. Every venue is different, as is every caterer and wedding vendor for that matter, so it’s advised to meet in person and explore what is possible before making the final decision.

Catering is an art and there is a lot of talent and diversity to be found here in the Lincoln area. As such, there are plenty of options out there to fit any taste and budget. When selecting a menu, the more you have to choose from at each price point, the greater chance you’ll have of arriving at a meal that matches both. As previously mentioned, when it comes time to establish a budget, catering is typically one of the first areas to work the numbers depending on whether it’s provided by your venue or not.

Aside from price, which is important but certainly not the only thing that will ultimately factor into your decisions, working with someone who understands your vision is important. Each catering professional has his or her own approach to planning, but since it’s just as creative a process as the decor, the personal details definitely do matter.

“Here’s how I like to open the conversation with the bride: ‘Congratulations on our engagement! Now tell me how the two of you met?’” says Laurie Fraser with Doorstep Diner Catering. “After all, how can I plan the perfect menu if I don’t know them, what is important to them, how their romance blossomed, or what they envision for their day? My job is to take the stress out of choosing a caterer and we make it as easy as possible. From helping a bride select a menu where the cuisine is complementary to everything else about her special day as well as visually appealing, to letting her know how her day will proceed and what our role is, we do it all. Plating the head table is standard at Doorstep Diner Catering. After a long day of standing and smiling (and a few tears) we believe that it’s time for the bride and groom to relax and be served in elegance and style!”

Keep in mind that good caterers book up fast, so reserving them early is key to lock in the date. I recommend first finding your style so you can communicate that when meeting with your options and see what ideas they have to offer. What is it about you that you want to project on your wedding day? Maybe it’s a Garden Tea Party reception or an elegant Late Night Gala with appetizer stations and bite-sized desserts.

Before setting meetings, also ask for recommendations from friends, family, and coworkers. Then, narrow that list down to two or three caterers; any more than that and it’ll be overwhelming. At your initial meetings, ask questions about how your food will be sourced and cooked, the timing of the set up for the buffet or plated meal, if there is a service or delivery fee, and if staff will be onsite to assist in keeping your buffet line running smoothly or if you’ll have to enlist the help of Aunt Betty and the cousins.

I highly recommend using a wedding planner to help with all of the details. Wedding planners know how to negotiate and often receive discounts from vendors, helping you save money! They will also know what caterer will fit within your budget and theme and make recommendations, saving you time and energy!”

Fraser also offers a sampling of creative ideas and trends for those looking for inspiration. “If a unique surprise engagement affair is what you’re going for, how about an appetizer party? We love the interaction with the couple and hosting these is a blast! You choose the appetizers, we show up, and it’s audience participation time! Be prepared to get your hands dirty, drink a little wine or sip on a signature cocktail, and work with our executive chef to assist in creating elegant and gourmet appetizers, which you get to enjoy while we do all the cleanup! Then, in front of all of your friends, you drop to one knee and pop the question! Shy? Want something more intimate? We’ll create a menu just for two, plate and serve, or better yet, leave it there ready for you to serve it to your bride-to-be so the two of you can be lost in the moment.

As for weddings and trends in catering, we’re seeing less family style plating and more upscale comfort food requests. Making it personal is key and dishes that represent the bride or groom’s heritage or upbringing are popular, as well as family favorites reinvented with a modern twist. Another trend is homegrown global flavor; infusing world cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients is the perfect choice for the foodie in you!”

Joe Armstrong with Cowboy Chicken also offers guidance on important things to keep in mind when planning, noting, “The most important thing about planning food for your wedding is to serve what makes you and your spouse-to-be happy! At Cowboy Chicken, we have a wide variety of offerings at a great price and would love the opportunity to help you find something that works for you. Make sure that for any catering company you choose to work with, they will be helping you with key details like the amount of food appropriate for your event, timing, and who is responsible for delivery, set-up, clean-up, service, and providing necessary items like tableware and serving utensils.

We feel that the most distinctive quality of the services we offer is value. Not only do we provide a quality meal served buffet style, for a fraction of the price, but it comes with the plates and utensils at no additional cost. This can add up to huge savings! Our offerings also include a beverage service of tea and lemonade that can include cups, ice, sweeteners, and fresh lemons. For a minimal additional cost, we can also provide servers who will assist with service and clean-up.

We have several catering options to fit any need, which allows us to create a menu that is perfect for your event. At Cowboy Chicken, we cook all-natural chicken over a wood-burning fire, or there’s our signature sour-cream-tomatillo enchiladas, and we have an abundance of homestyle sides to complement any of our entrees. So we can provide the classic chicken, potatoes, and green beans, or we can design a more elaborate menu including enchiladas, ranchero beans, and Spanish rice.

We are a family own business and aim for the warmth and comfort of our culture to be at the heart of everything at we do. This respect and passion are experienced in the bold flavors of all-natural wood fire rotisserie chicken, the selection of wholesome ingredients and the handcrafted preparations of our meals. We call it honest food. We have a worked very hard to create a great catering program, and with our dedication to great food and family values, we can help the bride and groom navigate their way through one of the hardest wedding details, menu selection and planning! We offer and an array of catering services and provide home-style, fresh offerings that will please the entire guest list. We are available for small gatherings like showers and parties, but can also accommodate larger functions like the rehearsal dinner or the big day”

Sweet treats are yet another wedding reception staple with unlimited variations. There’s still plenty who go the traditional route of a beautiful wedding cake, while others are getting quite creative with their dessert, or doing the cake plus one or more dessert items. Whether you have a classic tiered cake in mind or one that’s decorated uniquely, want to serve your favorite treat or have a themed spread, or would like a dessert table with an assortment of indulgent options because it’s always nice to have choices, it’s advised to find a professional who can bring your dessert dreams to life. And for all of the other affairs leading up to the big day, you certainly can’t go wrong with serving a decadent dessert either!

“Rita’s is a completely new and different alternative for a dessert or treat at weddings or the events leading up to them,” says Mike Malone with Rita’s of Lincoln. “It’s especially nice for hot summertime weddings, but as Rita’s lovers know, anytime is a good time for your favorite Rita’s treat. For those who want to do something out of the ordinary, go beyond the traditional wedding dessert fare, or want to be remembered for having something unique and really tasty at their wedding, Rita’s is a great alternative to consider. With over 80 flavors of our legendary Italian Ice and over a dozen flavors of our amazing, award-winning Custard, there is something for everyone. With so many options to offer, we can even complement the color selections of the wedding party attire and decorations! We can do anything from a drop-off catering event with minimal support from Rita’s Treat Team members to a full-service catering affair where Rita’s Treat Team members serve the guests and take care of all the set-up and clean-up required.”

{The Look: Your Best Self for Your Big Day}

While everything else is so important to set the stage, the bride and groom are the “stars of the show” and much of the focus is on them, as it should be.

When it comes to what everyone notices first and remembers about the bride, the dress is definitely it. However, to complete the look, there are a lot of other aspects to tie everything together – accessories, hair, makeup (and of course healthy, glowing skin), and anything else that makes her look and feel her very best. Cosmetic procedures, spa services, and diet plans are all popular among brides-to-be.

Dress shopping happens well in advance, while the other items are planned in close proximity to the wedding day.

“The average engagement timeframe has increased from 12 to 15 months, and at Blush, we recommend that you do your shopping and purchase your bridal gown 9-12 months before your wedding,” says Emmy Gorman with Blush Bridal Boutique. “About 75% of Blush Brides custom design some part of their bridal gowns. Bridal gowns generally take between 4-6 months to arrive; however, there are exceptions depending on the designer and style.

As for what’s trending in bridal couture and new at Blush, she notes, “We love the variety of necklines available this season! For so long, strapless gowns were all you could find. Now, there are high necklines, plunging necklines, illusion, and tattooed lace. We love the options available for each of our bride’s individual style.

We are pleased to be launching ‘Signature Appointments’ beginning in September! These appointments are private, after hours for brides and up to 10 guests. Guests will be able to nibble and sip on light bites while we find the bride her perfect dress! Blush Bridal works with a bride’s friends and family to surprise her throughout the evening with little gifts and experiences that make this an extra special memory of wedding planning.”

In order to look and feel their best for the big day, many brides and grooms set the goal of slimming down. Whether you have a full year to dedicate to a healthy diet and exercise regimen or need to make a miracle happen less than a month out, there are effective options to consider.

“At Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers, we have different types of plans and services depending on where you’re at and where you want to be on your wedding day,” says Nancy Hopkins with Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers. “If you’re committed, you’ll see the results – in fact, if you follow the plan explicitly, we’ll guarantee it. On average our clients will lose 2lbs a week, so on our 16-week diet that equals out to 32lbs, which is around what most are looking to lose for their weddings. But if that number is more or less, just plan for the amount of time accordingly.

For those who want faster results, but don’t want to sacrifice their health and wellbeing in doing so, I highly recommend Lipogenics treatments. It’s a non-invasive method; you come in and get hooked up to the machine and relax for 30 minutes. Then, within the next 24 hours drink the recommended amount of water and do at least 30 minutes of cardio, with the goal of sweating as much as possible. The treatment essentially breaks up the fat stores in problem areas by utilizing your lymphatic system, releasing it with your bodily fluids. Clients are limited to 2-3 treatments per week, with at least a day in between. With the ability to target certain areas, you’ll lose inches and define your body where it’s needed to look your best in your dress or suit style, or your honeymoon attire. This treatment can be used alone or in conjunction with our diet plans to enhance your results.”

As previously mentioned, spa services are very often a part of the bride’s preparation. That being said, they are also commonly incorporated into special bridal party events too.

“At The Spa at Bryan LifePointe you can schedule a private bridal shower party,” says Tiffany Olson with The Spa at Bryan LifePointe. “We rent out our teaching kitchen for four hours, and it’s a great space for that type of event. The bridal party can then have their pre-wedding prep – pedicures, manicures, and facials – done afterward, which many find to be very convenient.

For those who are recently engaged or even leading up the wedding, a spa date is a perfect way to treat yourself and the wedding party or family as a thank you for being a part of your special day.

Needless to say, the bride will definitely be ready for a massage after all the planning and just to relax as the big day approaches, so that’s a great bridal shower gift or many ladies will opt to treat themselves.

We also are doing a new process called lash lifts which have all the glamour of false eyelashes without the wear, tear, and price, which has already been very popular among brides-to-be. We ‘perm’ and tint the eyelashes which give them a longer appearance. The results last up to two months.”

On the topic of skin care, Olson specifically advises, “It is important to start taking care of your skin as soon as you know the big day is planned. Proper care and treatment will lead to a more balanced skin appearance not to mention the health of your skin. Consultations with our doctor and PA are always free so come in and let us show you how we can cater to your needs.

At the medical spa, we can treat any last minute acne that may arrive with our new laser that will take care of it on the spot. You can also come in a few months before and our provider can start doing peel treatments, Botox or Laser Genesis for a smoother facial appearance that will make you look flawless for your pictures, no airbrushing/photo shopping needed.”

{The Gifts: Another Tradition Made Modern}

Those who are honored to attend wedding festivities and share such a special moment in a couple’s lives will also be customarily showering them with gifts! There are engagement gifts, bridal shower gifts, bachelor/bachelorette party gifts, wedding gifts, and fun little gestures in between. From the bride and groom, there’s the bridal party gifts day-of, the newly trending gift when you ask them to be your bridesmaids and groomsmen, and perhaps you might even be considering small gifts as tokens of gratitude for to those attending the wedding and reception.

Whatever the case may be, you want your gift to be a memorable one. Particularly in the case of wedding gifts, the goal is for the couple to be delighted upon opening it and to be able to use it or incorporate it into their married lives in some way or another. For some of the aforementioned gifts, customization is desired.

The tradition of wedding gifts remains household items, and there are a lot of really neat things out there in that category – it’s definitely just the standard-feature blender anymore!

Jana Clark with Habitat, Lincoln’s independent Kitchen, Gift and Gourmet Store since 1975, offers ideas for all types of gifts:

“Do you want your wedding gift to be the one that is remembered? We have many amazing, knockout, never-to-be-forgotten wedding gifts. Our newest favorites are melamine serving pieces by Beatriz Ball. They are beautifully designed, elegant, durable, dishwasher safe white-ware pieces. Original Beatriz Ball pieces are aluminum serving pieces that can be baked in or chilled in, and they never need to be polished. Many of these pieces can be monogrammed. Annie Glass is another favorite. These are beautiful pieces made from recycled glass, trimmed in gold or platinum, and are signed by the artist. Acacia wood salad bowls and serving tools are a timeless gift as well. They definitely make a statement.

Are you looking for practical wedding and shower gifts? We have durable, oven-to-table, dishwasher safe enamelware trays, bowls, and platters. We always have a large selection of fun flour sacks, dish towels, dish cloths, placemats and napkins. We are also happy to help put together a basket full of our favorite gadgets – we have over 300 to choose from!

Other lines that make quality great wedding or shower gifts are Le Creuset, Swiss Diamond, Emile Henry, Wusthof, and Shun – quality brands that last.

Looking for a theme gift? Bicycles, bees, and pineapples continue to be popular across the board.

Planning a wedding? Many brides come to us looking to buy attractive oversized serving pieces for their wedding receptions. These pieces can be hard to find. We’re happy to track down specialty pieces from our large selection of vendors and will work with the bride to find just the right piece. We recently helped a bride with a five-tiered, 48” serving piece for cupcakes. It was AMAZING.

At Habitat, we have a wedding registry and annual bridal events, and are happy to provide suggestions and help you find the perfect gift or specialty item.”

If you’re one of the lucky couples who will soon be exchanging “I Do’s” witnessed by all of your loved ones and well-wishers, and with all of the celebratory events surrounding the occasion, you’ve got some serious planning to do before that day comes. Rest assured you’re in good hands with the caliber of professionals we have here in the Lincoln area, so make sure to use them early and often!