It's a Match! The Romance & Bridal Issue

Love is recession-proof, but what about weddings? Will this year's crop of couples be thwarted by a little economic crisis? Based on an unscientific survey of Vermont wedding pros, the answer is "no." Some clients may be interested in downgrading from salmon to chicken, but nobody's calling the whole thing off. At least not for that reason...

Lucky thing, because Vermont's wedding industry supports a slew of beautiful venues, plus artful caterers, florists, entertainers, hairdressers and seamstresses. And these professionals note, with obvious appreciation, that the state has a way of weeding out the so-called "bridezillas." Couples who choose Vermont know in advance that anything can happen here, and probably will. Don't like it? Bring a sweater.

As we gaze at the frozen February landscape, it's a comfort to know hundreds of couples are picturing the place in full bloom. In three short months, Vermont will be Wedding Central, with festivities in every quaint grange hall, meeting house and round barn. Hopefully, we'll get invited.

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• Groom With a View: A new husband's advice to his betrothed brethren