Philadelphia - April 24, 2007

Altar’d State

Spring 2007 Wedding Guide

You didn’t think you’d be the type to settle down. But here you are, a date with Vegas/altar/chuppah staring you in the face. Flowers? Dress? Cake? Neurotic meltdown? This should make it easier.

Best Laid Plans
Feastivities, a catering and event planning team, can handle a small dinner or a three-ring circus. They’ll take care of the food, flowers, location, and color coordination so you don’t have to.

Slim Chance
Lithe Method’s bridal slim-down package incorporates cardio, weight training, and ballet barre work. They work in conjunction with Zone Fresh Philly, which delivers balanced, low-calorie meals to your door (1030 North Second Street, suite 401; 215-928-1662).

Invite Only
Get guests’ attention with invites from Bird and Banner. Hand printing, decorative stitching, and wood print make it the most creative stationery around (215-285-8055; birdandbanner@comcast.net).

Have Your Cake
And actually eat it. Lotus Cake Studio specializes in unusual, vegan cakes that taste as magnificent as they look. One bite of the red and black Japanese-themed cake with lucky bamboo, and even carnivores will be sold (215-967-1107).

Gown and Out
Designer and custom tailor Sarah Van Aken will make the dress you’ve always wanted (though cool it on the histrionics — she’s a busy lady). Her custom tux shirts should steer the boys safely clear of the saggy-pants pall-bearer look (215-496-0408; info@vanakencustom.com).

Oh, The Memories
Photographer Chris Kendig snaps artistic, documentary style shots that capture the mood of the day. You might forget he’s there, but you’ll remember every moment (215-519-4167).

Coming Up Roses
Or lilies or peonies. Beautiful Blooms will create everything from stunning bouquets to floral headpieces that won’t make you look like a hippie (1011 North Hancock Street; 215-925-9300).

Giving Back
You got your special day. Everyone else paid for it. Say thank you. Engravable Ginette NY jewelry is perfect for bridesmaids, and bracelets from Mizuki will suit both moms (Petulia’s Folly, 1710-12 Sansom Street; 215-569-1344). Finally, let guests leave with custom-blended teas from Tbar (117 South 12th Street; 215-625-3936).