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"Weddings used to essentially be local events; they were for the neighborhood, good friends and close family. The food was simple: usually finger sandwiches, a little cheese, wedding cake and punch. The receptions rarely lasted beyond two or three hours.

"Gradually, the wedding reception evolved into an affair that featured simple stationary hors d'oeuvres and a buffet supper with hearty and delicious dishes.

"I started to see another step in the evolution in about 1990. Weddings began to evolve into more elaborate sit-down dinners which eventually led to multi-course meals where people started inquiring about more elaborate centerpieces and special linens, table china, glassware and silverware.

"Now, a wedding has become more than a simple afternoon party in the garden. There is a definite trend towards the extravaganza. When The Catered Affair first started, we never had to consider lighting design. Often, one of the first calls we make now in planning a wedding is to our terrific lighting person. With today’s weddings, it’s not uncommon to practically redecorate the wedding site. We often arrive with interior wall draping and swathing for the ceilings to create a one-of-a-kind interior.

"I like that we are also moving away from the idea of the starry-eyed ingenue bride. Today the older more sophisticated bride desiring a lavish wedding is a very significant trend. Along with this, there is a notable rise in interest in the ethnic and cultural heritage of the families involved in today's wedding. The generic white wedding just isn't that popular anymore and people are crossing all the lines.