cover image Weddings by Martha Stewart

Weddings by Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart, Elizabeth B. Hawes. Clarkson N Potter Publishers, $75 (386pp) ISBN 978-0-517-55675-7

This is a lavish, oversize album bursting with intelligent nuptial advice and spectacular color photos, although it is unclear whether the book is intended for the bridal couple or wedding professionals. Caterer Stewart (Entertaining, etc.) documents a rich sampling of weddings at home and club, in farmhouse and on yacht, for first and second marriages, and offers tips on organization, invitations, wedding dresses, ceremonies, music and decoration that will inspire prospective brides and grooms. But a professional readership is suggested by the inclusion of instructions (step-by-step and illustrated) for constructing bridal bouquets and wedding cakes, as well as some 120 eclectic, festive recipesfor example, smoked turkey on currant scones, French bread with strawberry butter, wild-rice pancakes with red-pepper jelly and roast loin of pork with prunes. 100,000 ad/promo; Better Homes and Gardens Book Clubs selection; author tour. (April 1)