For the Wedding and Reception, we ask for Semi-Formal attire. Dress your best! No jeans or flip-flops, please. Otherwise, dress for a ceremony of about 30 minutes, followed by a reception of a few hours in the same indoor location. If you're joining us for the Adults-Only After Party, it will be outdoor, around dusk, and primarily in grass. If you'd like to slip into something more comfortable or take off your tie at that party, feel free!
Of course! Our invitations will ask if you intend on bringing a plus one (or family member(s)), please fill in their names and let us know as soon as possible. That way we may accommodate your party with our food, treats and seats. RSVPs can be done here through the RSVP tab, email to Crystal at cblakeman@midcoastbankonline.com, or text at 732-299-3906.
For the first half at Sam Yoder Farm, they are. The venue is dry (as in alcohol-free) and Dwight's family, children included will be present. There will be a children's table with activities and coloring. Our After Party is Adults-Only with unedited speeches, alcohol and adult content. We would love to have you wherever you feel most comfortable.
Yes. Parking will be at the farm for both events. There is ample parking at the building with a short walk to the ceremony. We suggest those attending the After Party park at the farm and carpool together to Vern and Kelly's home. There will be street parking there, but if you'd prefer not to walk along a country road in your good clothes, please arrange for carpools.
This is a wonderful request that we love to receive. We are in need of so many things! Although we will have friends as Readers, Ushers, Officiant, and Host(ess); think of it like Mardi Gras, if you have a talent, item or service you would like to share with us and the other guests on our special day, please ask! We would love musicians, dancers, crafters or poets (or just good speech writers) and so very many items to borrow or rent. This wedding is about fun, love and community. Let's share together! Contact Crystal anytime with requests.
The short answer is...Somewhat. Dwight and I are from different cultures. He has a Mennonite family and I am Native American. They vary greatly in traditions, religion and cultural norms. There will be some familiar Christian things; the Processional, Bridal Party, my white dress and veil, cake, etc. But also some Native choices; Natural elements throughout, dried flower confetti, glass unity, and a Celebrant to give the ceremony. You will see that two women will wear suits, we will have readings from family and friends, written vows, and lots of whimsical fun. If there is anything you're curious about, don't hesitate to ask! Crystal and Dwight are completely open, and Loretta and Robert have lots of answers, too. I want you to know and understand me and my culture as I become your family.
We are travelers. Crystal has lived in SEVEN states and Dwight has flown all over the country for work. It was an easy choice to pick Lake Tahoe, NV/CA. As of now, the hotel is booked, but flights and a rental car are still needed. Crystal's high school friends live nearby in Reno, NV. The scenery in Lake Tahoe is postcard-pretty in every direction, the Redwood Trees are hundreds of feet tall, and the weather will be beautiful there in August. We are leaving a few weeks after the wedding, so we will be able to see off our guests from out of town and make plans for our three fluffy fur-babies. (Our cats Butter, Darth and Scotch are all excited too!) Our friends out West will be planning a party for our arrival and making quality time to introduce themselves to Dwight. If you know any good flight/car deals, please let us know!
We're so glad you're thinking about it! Thank you in advance. Feel free to contact either of us, or Loretta Miller; his mother, with any questions. Since we are just starting out, monetary gifts are appreciated. Crystal is the coupon queen, so here are money-saving details on item purchases: Our favorite registry is at MyRegistry.com and includes many stores, plus cash funds. (IKEA, Macy*s, JCPenney, Amazon.com, Target and Walmart are within) The Boscov's items in it are all eligible for the 10% discount card we sent in the invitations, and has free gift wrap. The Zola registry items have free shipping, and can be bought through Ebates.com for cash back. The shops listed in MyRegistry.com all have in-person availability as well, if you prefer to go into the store. Just search for our names at the Registry desk and an employee will be happy to help you. Often, they will print out our list at your request also. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
Yessir! Dwight's Best Friend is a woman, her name is Courtney, and she will rock that tux right along with the boys. It's not exactly traditional, but we're not either. Another lady in a tux? You betcha! Our Flower Girl is Riley Steele, the teenage daughter of the Maid of Honour. She's energetic, and loves all things colorful. You'll see a few playful things like this along the way.
Rustic Glamour with a Sense of Humour. It's a farm setting, very much like our upbringing. A little glitter for Crystal, and lots of whimsical fun. We can't ever be serious together, we're always making each other laugh. We couldn't possibly have a completely buttoned-up big day. Sure, we'll be in nice clothes, but don't take us too seriously. :)
Crystal uses this word to describe her Friends-that-are-like-Family. Since her parents have both passed away, and her closest relatives are not close, most of Crystal's side will be composed of these framily members.