While they are the "norm" in Northwest Iowa, they are not required -- and you can go so many different directions if you choose not to have

It is a beautiful day -- and another wedding is setting up in the Great Hall for tomorrow! This led me to think about something I've been...

It's Rhubarb Season!! We LOVE rhubarb --- and I have been so delighted that the rhubarb we transplanted all took off and is loving it's...

June has been a traditionally big wedding month..."June Bride" anyone? Me! It was me! :) Matt and I got married on an overcast day in...

I know -- it's not top of your list of fun or romantic -- but, lunch can be the heartbeat of your day! Something you'll hear me say again...

I thought this might be a fun time to share some of our favorite picture spots for weddings -- both inside and outside! But -- I must...

The question is, do I have any recommendations of things to skip on your wedding registry?

What months are the busiest and how can our guests plan for them? Read more about when our busy times are.

Is there a particular date on your calendar that you'd like to fill? Read about what I think are great wedding dates!

Homemade pudding. The ultimate in comfort food. There is just something about it that you can't get out of a box!!! This winter as we...

It’s that time of year again….time to talk turkeys and trees! (Or, if you prefer, how does your family celebrate ?!) Blending family...

These pictures -- they just make me grin. This summer for dad's funeral we had most of the family in town and used this time to go...

It is a favorite! (But I can only make it in the cold weather months!! Much to Matt's chagrin!) Something about this hearty crock pot...

So --- one more quick thought on table decorations! If you read my other table decorations blog you saw that I believe it is easy, and...

What is one area that sets the stage for your event? Ok, ok -- I know you're thinking Venue --- and you're not wrong! But, right after...

One of the biggest questions we hear is regarding the bar bill! During a tour for a wedding - this is often one area that people just...

One of the things that I have been having so many conversations about this spring and summer -- and leading into fall bookings -- is...

Sara Ricke10:38 AM (2 hours ago) to Sara, me Taco Ring --- one of the favorites from my kids' childhoods that must be brought out in the...

Egg Bake is a staple at the Ricke house. We have changed recipe’s over the year – each time as the girls try a new one and find it to be...

Sourdough has my heart --- the dense chewy texture inside and the crispy crusty outside...what's not to love?!? As with half of America,...