But the festivities tend to be more about convenience for families and travel than patriotism, experts say.
KATHRYN CATES MOORE / Lincoln Journal Star | Posted: Saturday, July 4, 2009 12:00 am
Jen Vrana and Toby Hottovy will exchange their wedding vows, then enjoy the fireworks.
Literally. Fireworks.
They are getting married tonight in a small outdoor ceremony in the Colorado Rocky Mountains with friends and family.
After dinner, they will look to the sky and enjoy the show, Vrana said.
Yes, her bridesmaids will wear royal blue, but there will be no other nod to the patriotic holiday/wedding day. No flag tablecloths or sparkler centerpieces. No stars or stripes.
Vrana said deciding to have a wedding on July 4 had more to do with the extra holiday travel day for guests and their desire for "a summery, outdoor wedding."
Jordan Reikowfski, who is getting married tonight in Columbus, said the Fourth of July has always been her favorite holiday. But she and her fiance, Andy Brabec, picked it as their wedding date because it was worked for their families and was available, she said.
So their 500 guests will celebrate the wedding and Independence Day at the same time.
There will be no red, white and blue at their wedding either - her colors are plum, black and ivory - but a personalized fireworks display will be held in the hotel courtyard. And there is talk of the word "Love" lighting up the sky with a heart, she said.
Early plans included sparklers on the tables, but city fire codes got in the way.
This year, the Fourth of July is a popular wedding date.
Lynne Rustad, owner of Ellynne Bridal, said she has four brides getting married today. Another three Fourth of July brides bought gowns at J.Marie's bridal shop, an employee said.
Weddings are also set for Pioneer Park and the Sunken Gardens.
Rustad said she thought the date selection probably had more to do with the convenience of a three-day weekend for the couples' families than patriotism.
"Everyone's off, and it is easy to plan around," she said.
Although normally the holiday would suggest picnics and barbecues, many brides are going with multiple bridesmaids and sit-down dinners.
Rustad could also imagine a reception with an outdoor tent and lemonade with champagne.
"It is the perfect opportunity to be more casual," she said.
Other Fourth of July wedding "dos" would be taking a moment to acknowledge the holiday at the reception with a patriotic thought, Rustad said. And the proper display of the flag.
Then enjoy the fireworks.
Reach Kathryn Cates Moore at 473-7214 or kmoore@journalstar.com.