Weddings by Design

the best bridal looks:

30+ Gorgeous Gowns for 2013 — P. 26

TM

Honeymoon Hotspots: Where to Bliss Out After Saying “I Do” P. 56

Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding P. 54

Artful Cakes That Look as Good as They Taste P. 40

Know Your Florals: A Crash Course P. 20

Modern Inspiration for Your Most Important Day! decor, fashion, food, Venues, and more

BONUS!

FEATURING

the wedding industry’s biggest stars: angel sanchez mindy weiss elizabeth messina ron ben-israel

Beauty Timeline What you should be doing NOW to prep for the big day

WINTER 2013 $6 USA/CAN

wedding planning.. redefined w e i e d in d 1

4th annual wedding show & market

02-02-201 3

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10 am - 4 pm ravenswood event center

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join us for a wedding show unlike any other! featuring artisan, locally owned, and independent businesses providing one-on-one custom planning for all your wedding needs

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW: www.indiewed.com visit us online for a list of INDIE WED events coming to a city near you, a growing national directory of independent vendors, a blog, and much more!

Weddings by Design 02 photography courtesy of: #1: free2be photography, #2 & 4: Avery House, #3: Amanda Megan Miller Photography. Artwork Š Indie Wed LLC.

Contents 1 of 2

DESIGN & DECOR Find the perfect invitation suite to suit your style PAGE 10

10 13 16 20 22

Unconventional Invitations Rentals Renewed Tablescapes Two Ways Flowers for Every Season Personal Decor Style that Pops

FASHION & BEAUTY 26 33 34 36 38

Inspiring Styles for Every Bride Beauty Bridal Timeline Finishing Touches Gorgeous Gown Silhouettes From Planner to Bride

FOOD & DRINK 40 44 46 47 48

Cake Walk Haute Hors d’Oeuvres Ladies Who Lunch Stations with a Twist Delectable Dinner Design

BONUS

Find the right silhouette PAGE 36

Weddings by Design Resource Guide PAGE 94

Weddings by Design

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Contents 2 of 2

LOCATIONS & DESTINATIONS 50 52 54 56 57

A Marie Antoinetteinspired affair PAGE 72

Take Shelter Go West!

Designing From Afar Honeymoon Hotspots Let’s Celebrate!

WELL WED: REAL WEDDINGS 68 70 72 74

Desert Chic Western Love Story Earthy Ethereal Beach Beautiful

FEATURES & INSPIRATION 77 82 86

From the Eye of Elizabeth Messina Angel Sanchez: Structural Design Rooftop Revelry—an inspirational shoot

PLUS 6 94 98

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Letter From the Editor Resource Guide RSVP: Mindy Weiss

Weddings by Design

A barn-inspired shoot

by Elizabeth Messina and Mindy Weiss PAGE 77

Wedding gown designer Angel Sanchez PAGE 82

appointments recommended 2438

north clark street telephone

Â… chicago

773.477.9830

elizabethgrace.com Weddings by Design

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Digital edition for iPad

Welcome to Weddings

by Design

I

remember my first day as an editor.

It was 2004, and I was working on a small town newspaper, ready to put my journalism degree to work. Glamorous stories they were not—I’m not kidding when I say that my first byline was about an ox that died during a reenactment of Lewis and Clark’s cross-country expedition. But I didn’t care.

I was filled with the exhilarating rush that comes when embarking upon something new; an exciting challenge unfolding right in front of me.

Get it for FREE on iTunes or the App Store

Eight years later, I felt that same sense of wonderment (and butterflies!) when we started working on Weddings by Design.

It was definitely a new challenge—the subject matter of weddings is a slight left turn from the type of design we cover in the monthly issues of Design Bureau—but the level of talent and inspiration is just the same. When you see the work of the photographers, graphic designers, fashion designers, wedding planners, and cake designers featured inside, we’re certain you’ll agree.

In the spirit of Design Bureau, we’ve taken a modern approach to all things bridal, including an exclusive interview with wedding dress designer Angel Sanchez on p. 82. (who knew that his structural dresses are inspired by his background as an architect?)

And the queen of wedding planning and design, the one and only Mindy Weiss, shares her secret weapon to a perfect day (p. 98). Plus, we’ve got pages of gorgeous gowns, cool cake trends, real life weddings, and tips from experts in every corner of the wedding industry.

I’m so thrilled to be helping you on your journey to designing the most exciting day of your life. In a way, it’s sort of like starting a new job: although you’re not totally sure of what lies ahead, you know it’s bound to be fun, full of surprises, and totally exciting.

Interested in more?

Visit US ONLINE AT modernweddings.com

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Weddings by Design

Kristin Larson Managing Editor Weddings by Design + Design Bureau modernweddings.com

Weddings by Design

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Publisher & editor-inchief Chris Force chris@alarmpress.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

-----

Tarra Kieckhaefer tarra@alarmpress.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Ellie Fehd ellie@alarmpress.com

ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Kristin Larson kristin@alarmpress.com

-----

Associate editors

Liz Abshire, Jill Berris, Krystle Blume, Matthew Hord, Kevin Graham, Arghavan Hakimian, Emily Kirkwood, Jenny Palmer, Cole Stevens, Bryan Tims, Natalie Valliere-Kelley, Mallory Wegner

John Dugan john@alarmpress.com

Kathryn Freeman Rathbone katie@alarmpress.com Joel Hoglund joel@alarmpress.com ----DESIGN DIRECTOR

Lindsey Eden Turner lindsey@alarmpress.com DESIGN intern

Alli Berry -----

contributors

Chantal Andrea, Jenny Bowker, Rebecca Cairelli, Delia Cai, Dustin Condren,Dean Fisher, Lucy Hewett, Luuvu Hoang, Elizabeth Messina, Laura Neilson, McKenzie Powell, Lesley Stanley, Mindy Weiss cover image

Photographed in Seattle by Chantal Andrea; wedding gown design & styling by Rebecca Cairelli; jewelry by History and Industry by Irene Wood; makeup and hair by Jenny Bowker Make Ups; models: Tyson Strotx and Katharine Wimett with Seattle Models Guild

account managers

SENIOR Account EXECUTIVE

Liisa Jordan liisa@alarmpress.com

New Business Development

Shannon Painter shannon@alarmpress.com Sales manager

Yan Belenky yan@alarmpress.com Account EXECUTIVEs

Colleen Batterman, Kylie Callander, Rachel Clarke, Tristan Hanselman, Ainsleigh Monaghan, Miranda Myers, Gloria Puljic, Matthew Quilter, Christian Romasanta, Allison Weaver production manager

Lauren Carroll laurenc@alarmpress.com -----

Chantal Andrea is a photographer. Her affinity for photojournalism and art has drawn her to shoot assignments ranging from life in a hospital clinic in rural Bangladesh to this issue’s high-rise photo essay. She is a complete romantic and if you are in love, will gladly document your nuptials. chantalandrea.com; photo by Manchik Photography.

Delia Cai is a Peoria, IL, native studying journalism at the University of Missouri in Columbia. She has worked as a contributor and editorial intern at Design Bureau and Weddings by Design, and now serves as the editor of MOVE, Mizzou’s weekly student magazine. Photo

by Nick Ehrhard.

Laura Neilson a writer whose subject matter covers a range of topics and areas from fashion and style to food, travel, culture and, of course, design. She lives in New York’s East Village and writes for the New York Times, Cool Hunting, Food Republic, and Refinery 29.

Dusdin Condren works in portrait, editorial, and fashion photography.

His background includes undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Slavic literature, stints living in Russia and other parts of Europe, and a short career directing theater. He lives in Brooklyn, New York. dusdincondren.com

MARKETING MANAGER

Danelle Sarvas danelle@alarmpress.com Human resources

Diana Shnekenburger diana@alarmpress.com CONTROLLER

Linda Wolf

STAFF ACCOUNTANT

Mokena Trigueros

Assistant to the Publisher

LeeAnne Hawley leeanne@alarmpress.com

A one-year subscription to Design Bureau is US $48. Visit our website at www.wearedesignbureau.com or send a check or money order to: Design Bureau 205 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 3200 Chicago, IL 60601

P 312.386.7932 F 312.276.8085 info@alarmpress.com

Design Bureau (ISSN 2154-4441) is published bi-monthly by ALARM Press at 205 N Michigan Avenue, Suite 3200, Chicago, IL, 60601. Periodicals postage is PENDING at Chicago, IL and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to Design Bureau at 205 N Michigan Avenue, Suite 3200, Chicago, IL, 60601 Retailers: To carry Weddings by Design in your store, please call 201.634.7411. © 2012 Design Bureau. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. DESIGN BUREAU is a trademark of Design Bureau.

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Weddings by Design

design details

Design & Decor

elizabeth grace Chicago, IL elizabethgrace.com starting at $2,000 for a set of 100 Photo by Alli Berry

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Weddings by Design

DESIGN & DECOR

ATELIER ISABEY New York atelierisabey.com $1,500 for suite set of 100 (Photos courtesy of Atelier Isabey)

Unconventional Invitations Suitor

Address to impress with these chic designs

Chicago, IL suitorlife.com

Today’s invitations take design to a whole new level. Forget the standard calligraphy and paper insert and check out these suites that feature stamped graphics, brilliant hues, and cool patterns for chic and unforgettable wedding invitations. —DELIA CAI

Suitor produces a limited number of bespoke invitation suites per year. Price upon request.

LOVE VS. DESIGN Los Angeles, CA lovevsdesign.com $125 DIY set, $220 for digital print set of 100

Elizabeth Grace photo by Alli Berry; Suitor photo by Nolan Wells; Love vs Design and Atelier Isabey provided by the studios

Weddings by Design

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DESIGN & DECOR

NOVEL IDEA

Twenty Pages Graphic designer Vincent Merlin and his wife turned their wedding into a cover op with their custom-created magazines. He shares his design inspiration.

SHINDIG New York shindiginvites.com Starting at $1,800 for suite set of 100 Photo courtesy of Shindig

TIE THAT BINDS St. Louis, MO tiethatbinds weddings.com Price upon request; photo courtesy of Tie That BInds

WBD: How did you come up with the initial idea to make personalized magazines for wedding couples?

Vincent Merlin: Twenty Pages was born from the needs of our own wedding in France. We wanted to share a little bit of our story and the big day logistics with our guests.

Since we had a destination wedding, it was hard to convey all the information to our guests in a fun and simple way.

We considered many things, but still felt that it didn’t fit our needs. So, we created our magazine and the guests loved how fun and practical it was—from the maps to the “top things to do” to the “what to wear” section. It made their experience much more enjoyable and stress free.

WBD: You have three different magazine designs— what inspired these versions?

VM: All our designers are based in Paris and their work is naturally inspired by the latest trends in France, but they also keep a close eye on what is going on in the U.S. We currently have three magazine styles: Whim was designed for the timeless romantic in all of us, Spark was inspired by of-the-moment French fashion magazines and meant for those who love to be on the cutting-edge, and Jolie has a vintage and nostalgic feel.

ICE CREAM SOCIAL Brooklyn, NY icecreamsocialshoppe.com Letterpress starting at $2,600 for a suite set of 100; Print ready starting at $1,800 Photo by Ryan Benyi Photography, ryanbenyi.com

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Weddings by Design

Twenty Pages photos courtesy of Vincent Merlin

WBD: What do you hope that couples get out of making their own wedding magazine?

VM: We hope that couples tell their story and share the romance with their wedding guests. Our customers always tell us that the magazine is a big hit at their wedding; it added an unexpected touch and was fun to put together, as well. a

DESIGN & DECOR

RENTALS RENEWED Tired of the chivari chairs and overstuffed banquettes you see at every wedding?

These rental companies will spice up your ceremony and reception designs BY lesley stanley

FOUND VINTAGE RENTALS Whether your style is romantic or industrial, vintage furniture from Found Vintage Rentals will create a personalized aesthetic fit for your tastes. “Found has a vision of seeing how unusual or unique pieces can be incorporated into a celebration in an unexpected way,” says Director of Business Development Allison Howell. Opened in 2010 by owner Jeni Maus, Found’s inventory contains 1,750 pieces, including vintage couches, tables, and church pews, as well as architectural pieces like freestanding doors, arches, and windows. Found Vintage Rentals, vintage-rentals.com, 714.888.5811

Images courtesy of Found Vintage Rentals

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DESIGN & DECOR

Tips & Tricks

Bright Lights, Big Wedding Celebrate your big day with these bright ideas

SWEET SUNDAY EVENTS Founders Justin and Katy saw a need for a rental company that offered more than just the basics, so they scoured vintage and antique stores to create their eclectic offerings. Whether it’s a tornado of chairs for a ceremony arch, or a giant painted canvas with live flowers exploding from it, the duo says they love creating events that wow people while still staying true to the authentic vision of the bride and groom. sweetsundayevents.com

SPARKLE & GLOW Not into throwing rice or blowing bubbles after saying “I do”? Have your guests hold sparklers as you make your way.

They’re festive, fun, and create a glow that complements the one on your face.

Sparkle, sparklersonline.com, 615.973.6100 Photo by Ruth Ritter

FLOAT ON

Clockwise from top left: photo at The Union on Eighth by Paige Newton Photography; photo of custom arch way by Joielala Photographie; photo of outdoor teepee by EE Photography; photo of a chair tornado at The Plantation House by EE Photography

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Weddings by Design

Depending on your personal style, Chinese lanterns can create a soft ambience or a lively atmosphere, while also bringing shape and dimension to any space.

Bunch them for a fuller look or hang each separately. Just don’t get jealous if your guests keep glancing above.

Photo courtesy Marc Wilson. See more of this wedding on page 60.

Mixing in antique plates lets you change your china’s look depending on the mood of your party. “You can’t go wrong: they’re great for an impromptu lunch, hors d’oeuvres, or special gatherings,” Benedetto says.

Donna Benedetto DESIGNS

Residential and Commercial Interior Design www.donnabenedetto.com 203.556.1705

Tips & Tricks

Dressing Your Modern Table Top Designer Donna Benedetto explains why selecting china doesn’t have to be a daunting task

Selecting formal china: it’s a wedding registry staple, but it can seem like an overwhelming (and unnecessary) task for many couples. To select dinnerware that’s sleek and not stuffy, interior designer Donna Benedetto suggests choosing serving pieces, like platters, tureens, and cake stands, before choosing a specific pattern. “Window shopping for larger pieces allows a couple to create an image of what they would like their dining room to look like in the future,” she says. With the serving pieces as anchors, she says couples can then pick patterns that will always look modern due to their timeless designs. “Investing in white or muted china with silver and gold banding or an irregular shape is a great way to start a timeless collection,” she says. a

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Tablescapes Two Ways

If you’re planning a formal affair or a low key party, your tablescape still needs to be styled with care. Event Designer Dean Fisher shows us how to transform your space with a few simple tricks.

Don’t be afraid to mix metals! Here, modern gold flatware is paired with an antique silver sugar and creamer set. It will add dimension to your table.

Styling: Dean Fisher of South Social & Home, southsocialandhome.com Photos: Lucy Hewett, lucyhewett.com Flowers: Hidden Folk, hidden-folk.com Vintage dishes: Dinner Party, dinnerpartyshop.com Location: Blackbird, blackbirdrestaurant.com 16

Weddings by Design

DESIGN & DECOR

A personal party rule: You can never have too many candles.

Lighting is one of the most important elements and it’s my opinion that a perfect party is one that GLOWS!

Embellished linens can add a layer of luxury to each place setting, but you can achieve a similar look at a fraction of the cost by scattering confetti across the tabletop. My go-tos are the shredded metallics, which create a “perfectly messy” look and give off the wild party vibe while looking elegant at the same time.

Collecting mismatched sets of vintage plates can make for a breathtaking dining experience, but it’s often more work than brides realize.

Consider consulting with an event stylist or specialized rental company that will have everything from English tea services and fine china to Mad Men-style bar carts and cocktail glasses.

Weddings by Design

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Tablescapes Two Ways (continued)

Need an easy way to bring some pizzaz to the table? Go wild with the napkins! You can easily make your own or have a tailor whip them up for next to nothing.

Have fun with the pattern (you can find vintage bolts on eBay) and consider adding pom-poms or other decorative elements.

Don’t feel like you’re stuck with boring glassware! Serve ice water in sterling julep cups, pass signature drinks in Champagne coups, and remember that if you must choose one style of glass to use across the board, a large stemless wine glass is perfect for water, wine, cocktails, and beer.

Styling: Dean Fisher of South Social and Home, southsocialandhome.com Photos: Lucy Hewett, lucyhewett.com Flowers: Pistil & Vine, pistilandvine.com 18

Weddings by Design

DESIGN & DECOR

DESIGNING WITH THE STARS These event designers know what it takes to make a lasting impression—just ask their celeb clientele

Meet Christina Whittle and Zaid Arriola, two designers who have had their hands on big day details for stars like Drew Barrymore and Natalie Portman, to name a few. They let us tap their brains to find out how to make the flowers for your own big day picture perfect.

Let natural woodgrain add texture to your table and eliminate the expense of table linens. In many event spaces, you can opt to use antique and vintage dining tables, which can make for a creatively curated space by selecting one style of chair to use throughout the room.

If a bride has to choose between what’s in season or what’s in budget, what do you recommend?

What is in season is always a great choice. However, budget should not drive your bouquet choice. It is the most important flower on your special day—it will be in a lot of your pictures and will create great memories.

You never want to look back at your wedding album and wish you had spend those few extra dollars!

What do you think is a good rule of thumb for brides to abide by when deciding on a floral palette?

We believe there is no rule of thumb when it comes to your own wedding, so you should choose a color palette that is personal to you. This is the time to get your future husband’s input. For example, you love yellow and he loves gray, and those two colors together create a delightful and chic palette—a true marriage!

Are there any flowers in particular that you think are poised to be the next “big bloom”?

Dahlias are beautiful and timeless. Even a single Dahlia bloom would create an amazing bouquet. There are so many different types and hybrids, they’re a very versatile flower. Dinner plate dahlias are our favorites, and soon will be everyone’s!

Any trends we can look forward to seeing in the coming year? What about trends we’ll be happy to see go?

One trend we think is worth following is making eco-conscious decisions.

For example, there are many flowers that do not required large amounts of water.

What would your fantasy bouquet look like?

Large Magnolia blooms—we love the elegance and delightful fragrance.

A timeless piece! a

Portrait courtesy of Christina Whittle and Zaid Arriola

Weddings by Design

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DESIGN & DECOR

FLOWERS FOR EVERY SEASON When it comes to wedding florals, timing isn’t everything

NUPTIAL DECOR

A Ceremony in Bloom

One wedding designer shares her tips for perfect ceremony floral centerpieces

So often brides and grooms love certain types of flowers, but they forget to consider timing. Expert florist Dorothy Pfeiffer, whose shop in New York is quite aptly named Cornucopia Flowers, says not to sweat it over the season. “Flower seasons are stretching and we can get many spring favorites in winter when the southern hemisphere is experiencing spring,” she says. But if you’re unwilling to fly in your preferred wedding florals, Pfeiffer suggests substituting with in-season blooms in similar shapes or hues, adding that, “a lot of any one flower in a great shaped vase never fails!” a

Pfeiffer’s Seasonal Go-Tos Spring

Jeannie Savage is the head of Details Details in Los Angeles and has created unforgettable affairs for many of her clients. Here she offers up her top tips for creating beautiful ceremony florals that will bring a tear to everyone’s eye even before you say “I do.” ·· Think like a photographer and move beyond the aisle. “The entry of the aisle is not as important as the front of the aisle, where the majority of photos will take place,” Savage says. “Fill up that area first.”

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Flowering branches like Cherry, Dogwood, and Crabapple

Summer

Dahlias, Zinnias, and Fiddlehead Ferns

·· Having an outdoor wedding? Savage suggests keeping your passion for vivid colors to your reception arrangements.

“Sometimes loud, bright colors aren’t great outdoors,” Savage says. Instead, she recommends decorating your ceremony space in subtle coordinating hues that won’t compete with nature’s beauty.

Fall

·· Pull a fast one on guests by reusing the ceremony arrangements. “I love using multiple arrangements in varying heights—it’s a fail safe trick that works in both ceremony and reception locations,” Savage says. She suggests changing subtle details to keep the arrangements feeling special. “We may switch out the container so it doesn’t look exactly the same, but the floral will have a cohesive look.” a

Winter

Weddings by Design

Oak leaves, Mango Calla Lilies, and Brown Sunflowers

Orchids, Parrot Tulips, and Amaryllis

Arbor photos courtesy of Details Details. Tablescape photo courtesy of Cornucopia Flowers.

DESIGN & DECOR

BE MORE HANDSOME

Bouts for the Boys

Event designer Lisa Thomas picks three flower alternatives that will add the perfect daper touch to any man’s wedding attire

Hen and Chick Succulent

Non-leafy green accents

Scarbiosa pods

A sturdy round alternative to large flowers like gerbera daisies. “Men don’t like the big gerbera staring at them all night,” Thomas says.

Thomas favors earthy elements, likes herbs and lichens. “Rosemary for remembrance, or a touch of moss for the gardener,” she says.

The plant’s delicate spikes look both elegant and masculine and often complement the bride’s bouquet. “Look at the overall look of the bride and pull out the organic elements that you can jump off of,” Thomas suggests for finding similar manly blooms.

Lisa Thomas is the head of OOH! Events in Mount Pleasant, SC, where she plans and designs everything from weddings to professional sporting events, shopoutofhand.com

The Perfect Vessel

Wedding Industry insider

Pretty centerpiece containers to pull your flowers together Leila Khalil, Founder, Be Inspired Public Relations While many brides turn to vendors for expert tips on planning their big day, the vendors need some place to turn for advice, too. They call Leila Khalil, founder and owner of Be Inspired PR, a public relations firm focused on wedding professionals.

You started the first PR firm devoted especially to serving the wedding industry. How did you realize there was a niche to fill here?

Beautiful wedding flowers deserve to sit in gorgeous containers. “Specialty vases are one of our favorite décor elements,” says wedding planner Priska Kaspar Jayme of Atelier Joya. “Using an unexpected vessel adds a layer of authenticity in a vintage inspired wedding and a layer of depth in a modern glam wedding.” For a classic look that’s very now, try footed glass vases in varying heights, or mercury glass bowls of different shapes and sizes.

I was working in the wedding industry for years before I realized there was a real need that I could fulfill with my PR background! I personally know the time constraints on a vendor and wanted to offer some sort of relief by taking the tasks like pitching images, setting up photo shoots, off of their to-do list. I’ve always believed that giving will give back and there’s no greater joy than being able to help businesses reach their fullest potential.

What has been the biggest change you’ve seen in the wedding industry over the past five years?

There’s constantly change in the wedding industry! The trends and styles seem to change almost every day. The one thing that has definitely changed is the social media presence. Five years ago no one was communicating online other than email. Now vendors are able to form relationships via Twitter and Facebook before ever meeting face to face!

Any advice for wedding professionals just getting their start?

Go for it! If you’re serious about wanting to be in the wedding industry then you have to be full in. We have a consulting program that a lot of new wedding professionals have been through that is a great tool to prioritize what is important and where you can make the biggest impact.

Vase image by Sasha Gulish. Bouttoniere images courtesy of OOH! Events.

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DESIGN & DECOR

Personal Decor Style That Pops Event Creative designer Jesse Deckard takes extra steps to make your wedding decor feel right

“Couples are really gravitating towards a more intimate style for their weddings, and by ‘intimate,’ I don’t necessarily mean by size, but by feeling,” says wedding guru Jesse Deckard.

Deckard, a senior wedding design consultant at Event Creative in Chicago, specializes in creating the decor for weddings of all scopes and sizes. And he firmly believes that when it comes to making your wedding look like you, you have to dig deep. “I find out things about my clients that aren’t even related to the weddings. Things like personal shopping habits, what their homes are like, and what they like to do in their spare time, just so I can understand what their ultimate wedding setting should feel like,” he says.

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Weddings by Design

Once you’ve got your wedding feeling pinned down, Deckard gets to work honing preferences into a streamlined wedding look. He likes to do full decor run-throughs, where he stages complete table settings, accompanying lighting elements, and the small touches that make his wedding designs truly speak to each couple’s style. “They understand every design element that will ultimately create their special event space,” Deckard says of his meticulous process. But if you can’t stage a full decor dress rehearsal, do make sure your wedding’s look feels right. “Trust yourself, as you know yourself best,” Deckard advises. “If it feels right in the beginning, it’s going to be right in the end.” a

Images courtesy of Studio This Is, Bob & Dawn Davis Photography, Fandl Photography, Amanda Hein Photography, Olivia Leigh Photographie, Event Creative

DESIGN & DECOR

INDUSTRY INSIDER

Kelly Maron Horvath, Founder of Indie Wed Kelly Maron Horvath was tired of presenting her boutique letterpress goods at the big commercial bridal fairs, so she decided to start a smaller, more hip bridal fair of her own.

That’s how Indie Wed was born.

“I thought it would be great if there was something with a mix of traditional wedding planning with the spirit of a marketplace or fair,” she says of her initial inspiration. Now in its third year, Indie Wed caters to brides both offbeat and traditional in the Chicago and Milwaukee areas. The shows have everything from craft beer tastings to roller derby stars dressed in wedding gowns and skates, and Horvath has plans to expand, both in the show’s scope and in its locations. Look for 2013 shows in Denver, Kansas City, and few other places that Indie Wed has in the works.

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DESIGN & DECOR

Light It Up

ALL THINGS LOVERLY

High lights and low lights add the finishing touch to beautiful wedding space blooms Kellee Kahlil “It doesn’t matter how absolutely stunning your floral statements are if they’re in the dark,” says Jennifer Kraft, a wedding planner known for her spectacular floral arrangements. “Lighting is the layer that completes the story of all of the tangible design elements you’ve chosen to include in your wedding.”

Kraft suggests projecting pin spots onto every table in order to frame centerpieces in just the right light. And if an electrical source is a problem in your space, turn to more organic light sources, like candles and crystals, to create a soft glow. She also says that megawatt LEDs have their place in wedding decor when incorporated correctly. Kraft suggests mixing them into your bouquet for an unexpected twinkle.

“Using LEDs in creative ways gives that extra bit of bling and sparkle to any design,” she says. a

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Weddings by Design

Images courtesy of Kraft Event Management

If you're over the amateur photos on Instagram and the anyone-can-post anything vibe of Pinterest, then check out Lover.ly, the wedding industry's source for online inspiration For those people out there who don't know, how is Lover.ly different than Pinterest?

Unlike Pinterest, our content is hand-picked and curated by our own team of wedding enthusiasts and bloggers.

What's one of the most unique ideas you've come across on Lover.ly?

You can find wedding ideas inspired by The Hunger Games novel in the Lover. ly engine, via The Wedding Chicks. Who ever thought you could extract cool wedding ideas out of a teen novel set in a post-apocalyptic world?

We love the name Lover.ly. How did you come up with it? Was it in any way inspired by Eliza Doolitte? (Audrey Hepburn is sooo loverly.)

When I sat down and thought about what I wanted Lover.ly to look like, I envisioned pinks, greys, and it all being very soft and love...rly! While it's wedding focused, I wanted a name that conveyed love, but still could cross into other realms of life, like party planning, nesting, and more. Loverly was always a word that I'd always bounced around, when I saw something beautiful.

K R A F T EVENTS & DESIGN

908 221 0448 WWW.KRAFTEVENTS.COM

design details

Fashion & Beauty

Tatiana by Samuelle Couture, price upon request, samuellecouture.com

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Weddings by Design

FASHION & BEAUTY

inspiring styles for every bride Planning for your big day also comes with a big challenge: finding your wedding dress. Let these looks guide you on your hunt for the perfect gown.

Portland-based designer Elizabeth Dye makes her ethereal dresses by hand, each piece featuring vintage fabrics and antique trimming.

Her gowns are perfect for brides who want to don something different than the norm, yet still have that timeless charm. For Emily

by Elizabeth Dye, $1,600, elizabethdye.com

Feminine Elegance

Designer Q&A

Elizabeth Dye Q: What was the inspiration for your latest bridal collection? A: My latest collection was inspired by Hitchcock heroines, and each dress is named for an iconic film. It’s less of a literal influence than it is an attitude: poised, gracious, radiating effortless glamour.

I like classic silhouettes and timelessness, but I also design my dresses to rebel a bit against the traditional princess fantasy that rules a lot of bridal fashion. Â

Samuelle Couture photo by Nadya Wasylko; Elizabeth Dye photos by Lisa Warninger

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FASHION & BEAUTY

This fashion-forward high/low dress gets a dose of demure thanks to the delicate lace and highend components throughout. Dress from Marchesa Bridal 2013, price upon request, marchesa.com

Beautiful embroidery, cap sleaves, and a gathered bust give this gown a vintage 1920s look.

Waverly by Claire Pettibone, price upon request, clairepettibone.com

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Weddings by Design

Vintage Chic

FASHION & BEAUTY

Amsale is known for its sleek satin gowns. The modified peplum on the Kensington dress will make you feel like Grace Kelly. Kensington by Amsale, price upon request, amsale.com

Structurally Sexy

designer Q&A Structural pleats make for a long and lean look. Duchess

by Anne Bowen, price upon request, annebowen.com

Kelly Faetanini Q: What was the inspiration for your latest bridal collection?

A: During a summer trip to my parents’ home, I was sifting through my grandmother’s jewelry box and found myself inspired by the designs, texture, and filigree of antique jewelry. I fell in love with the saturation of pearls and other delicate feminine details that encompass the idea of the antique jewelry box.

Q: What advice would you would give to a bride on the hunt for the perfect dress?

A: Stay open-minded and try a variety of shapes and styles before narrowing down to your favorites. Sometimes you might be surprised as to what really looks and feels best on you.

Architectural ruffles and ruching add to the shapely silhouette of this design.

Carolyn by Kelly Faetanini, price upon request, kellyfaetanini.com

All photos courtesy of the designer

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Sweeping ballroom gowns never go out of style. Venice by Kenneth Pool, price upon request, kennethpool.com

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Kenneth Pool photo courtesy of designer; Carol Hannah photos by Corbin Gurkin

FASHION & BEAUTY

Designer Q&A

Tara LaTour Q: Tell us about the creative process behind your latest collection.

A: I start with an inspiration source that will help lead the feeling of the collection. Then I go into a sketching stage and explore treatment development. This allows me to test and experiment with manipulating fabric to create texture and depth. Then I edit, edit, edit! Ironically the sketches are just a guideline and not necessarily set in stone. For me the process of putting together a gown is so organic, the gown is bound to change from the sketch to reality to achieve the best possible outcome.

Sophisticated Glamour

Channel your inner Marie Antoinette with this beautiful layered ballgown made from tulle and draped linen. Grand Palais by Carol Hannah, $2,865, carolhannah.com

A stacked ombre skirt gives this beautiful dress of-the-moment style. Brier by Tara LaTour, price upon request, taralatour.com

Tara LaTour photos by Eliesa Johnson

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Beautifully Bold

Want to make a statement? Choose an elegant evening gown for your formal bridal attire.

Oleda by Enzoani, price upon request, enzoani.com

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Sheer silks are a materials palette staple in Samuelle Couture gowns.

The soft gray is a lovely alternative to bridal white. Josephine by Samuelle Couture, price upon request, samuellecouture.com

Samuelle Couture photo by Nadya Wasylko; Enzoani photo courtesy of the designer

BEAUTY SPECIAL

FASHION & BEAUTY

ONE month ONE WEEK

Cut back on caffeine Caffeine reduces the amount of water in your body, leading to dehydration.

Follow-up facials and waxing

Seven to 10 days prior to your wedding you should schedule your final facial and waxing appointments. This will allow plenty of time for any inflammation, breakouts, or rashes to heal and lessen prior to your wedding.

Don’t stress

Finalize all of your appointments, allow yourself “you” time, and try to enjoy the last few weeks!

three months

Final tan

Schedule your final tan two days prior to your wedding date. This will allow the product to set properly and eliminate the chance of any rub-off on your dress.

Start waxing

If you have never had your eyebrows waxed, start getting them shaped three months prior to your wedding. This will allow time to consult with a specialist, find out if you like waxing versus threading, and time for any grow out that you may need to make your shape perfect.

Cut back on alcohol and salty foods Try to limit your intake of salty foods and alcoholic beverages during the final week in order to eliminate any excess water retention.

EXPERT ADVICE

Bridal Beauty Timeline

Go tanning… the spray way

Spray tanning is the only recommended means for tanning that we suggest. You want to establish a nice base color leading up to the wedding day, so it is nice to allow yourself time to find the right company for you.

Get your pearly whites whiter

Consult with your dentist, and start a teeth whitening regimen. You can also cut back on colored beverages, or opt for a straw to help eliminate contact with your teeth.

ONE DAY Final mani and pedi

You’ve already got that engaged girl glow, but every bride can use a little help, right?

Erica Beukelman of 1011 Makeup provides her step-by-step guide to getting flawless for your big day.

Scheduling your final manicure and pedicure the day before, or the morning of, your wedding will help lessen the time you have to chip your nails. It will also ensure that you have freshly groomed hands and feet.

Get some sleep Try to relax and get a good night’s sleep!

SIX MONTHS TO GO...

START HERE!

Six months Book your stylists

It is important to ensure that your hair stylist and makeup artists are available for your day, especially if you have a large bridal party.

Establish a facial routine

This is especially important if you battle with blemishes. Starting six months out will allow you plenty of time to consult with your dermatologist, meet with an esthetician, and begin the proper treatments necessary to have flawless skin on your wedding day.

Drink more water

If you do not already drink plenty of water daily, now is the time to make sure you do. This will keep your skin hydrated, moist and help with the flushing out of impurities.

DAY OF Drink and Eat

Make sure to drink plenty of water and don’t forget to eat (plenty of protein). It is important to allow yourself time to eat something in order to keep yourself properly nourished throughout the day’s events.

Try to limit your intake of fluids just prior to getting your dress on, and then resume after you say “I do.”

Relax and enjoy!

You planned ahead and hired the professionals that you trust and have confidence in so that you can sit back, relax, and not have to worry about a thing.

CONGRATULATIONS, GORGEOUS! Photo provided by Erica Beukelman

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FINISHING TOUCHES

FINISHING TOUCHES

simple but stunning shoes

Design Inspired ACCESSORIES

John Michel Cazabat’s sharp designs take neutral shoes from blah to beautiful. Try the sparkle leather shoe for a surprising style pop.

Make sure that you’re on trend on your wedding day with these fun accents

Chevrons and Circles Moyna Bags is on trend with this black-and-white zig zag look, as well as their polka dot bead design. Above, $110, moynabags.com. Below left to right:$249 and $145, both moynabags.com

Ditch the veil and do what the Brits do: top yourself with a fascinator!

If that’s too bold, then try a beaded headband look. Above and left: Sara Gabriel, prices vary, saragabriel.com

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Photos courtesy of the designers

FASHION & BEAUTY

WEDDING COORDINATION & EVENT PRODUCTION MONTH OF & FULL COORDINATION SERVICES

WEDDINGS CORPORATE AND NON-PROFIT EVENTS LAUNCH AND OPENING PARTIES HOLIDAy PARTIES DESTINATION MANAGEMENT

Michelle Durpetti Events is an event management and production firm founded on the principle that event planners must be good sources of creative ideas combined with practical experience, flexibility and know-how to manage an event from beginning to end. We execute large complex projects as well as intimate events and we offer both full and partial events ser vices.

505 N LASALLE DRIVE, SUITE 575, CHICAGO, IL

312.988.9900

WWW.DURPETTIEVENTS.COM

FIND US ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER, PINTEREST, AND yELP Weddings by Design

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FASHION & BEAUTY

Gorgeous Gown Silhouettes

Bridal gowns come in all shapes to flatter all figures. Find the one that is best for your body type to ensure you look stunning when you say “I do!”

mermaid/trumpet The mermaid’s hourglass shape adds vava-voom to your natural body line. Ruching and ruffles make the look demure.

Perfect for petite and curvy girls Left to right: Ines di Santo, Junko Yoshioka, Kelly Faetini

a-line A classic shape that’s universally flattering and always timeless in photos Perfect for figures of all shapes Left to right: Elizabeth Dye, Enzoani, Yumi Katsura

short/tea length Go short if you want a gown with sass.

Just be sure to pick the perfect shoe to keep legs looking long.

Perfect for girls with lots of spunk Left to right: Elizabeth Dye, Ines di Santo, Amsale

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Carol Hannah photos by Corbin Gurkin; Samuelle Couture photo by Nadya Wasylko; all others courtesy of the designers

FASHION & BEAUTY

sheath/column A sheath keeps everything lean. Try one with either a high neckline or plunging V to look very 2013.

Perfect for Petite and curvy gals Left to right: Rafael Cennamo, Samuelle Couture, Kenneth Pool

ballgown/princess The ballgown is the quintessential bridal shape. When else in life can you have a Cinderella moment?

Perfect for petite and curvy gals Left to right: Samuelle Couture, Enzoani, Inez di Santo

asymmetrical An update to the mermaid, asymmetrical gowns are great if you like the look of strapless but the security of straps Perfect for showing off lovely shoulders KIRSTEN

Left to right: Enzoani, Vera Wang, Amsale

Mermaid gown with tiered, micro–bias bodice and inverted flange skirt with abstract floral shoulder corsage detail Available in Ivory (shown in Scarlet)

empire/grecian A high waistline is perfect for gracefully highlighting your natural curves Perfect for creating a soft, womanly

shape

Left to right: Kelima K, Love Yu, Enzoani

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FASHION & BEAUTY

From Planner to Bride Even when you have a wedding planner, the process can be stressful—just ask Katie Jackson-Meara, owner of So Dressed Up event planning and styling and a recent bride herself. She found out that even when you’re a professional-grade planner, designing your own dream wedding comes with some challenges! She tells us how she handled the process, and gives tips on how to remain calm and carry on.

When you went from being a planner to being a bride yourself, what did you find to be most surprising about “the other side”?

The emotional experience that brides and their families endure during an engagement­. From feeling happy, to overwhelmed, nostalgic, even sad—the rollercoaster can be tough. Going through it myself made me more understanding of that part of the process.

As a wedding planner, you’ve learned how to deal with unexpected, stressful situations. Did that help you during the planning of your own wedding?

Absolutely. Managing details, stress, changes, the unexpected—that’s all part of planning an event, and my own wedding wasn’t any different.

Do you have any advice on how to most efficiently (and pleasantly) work with your planner?

Compatibility is important. Don’t assume you should book the same planner your friend did, or the one that is the most affordable. Once you determine it’s a good fit, be honest about what you want and how you’re feeling so your planner can design the wedding you want. Likewise, if you aren’t on board with something your planner suggests, speak up. They want you to be happy!

Tell us your favorite thing about your wedding!

We got married at the Chicago History Museum and they don’t allow candles inside. I LOVE candles, so my

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husband came up with the idea to do our first dance outside on the plaza in candlelight.

All our guests came outside and stood on the steps to be with us. It was a pretty special moment.

And lastly, tell us a piece of advice that every bride should know:

BIG DAY IDEA:

Whether it’s your wedding or Pick a signature another special event, the party should wedding scent—you and be a fabulous, stylish experience that is a reflecyour hubby will always tion of you and your personal style from start to think of your wedding finish. I believe events are more than coordination. I like to dress up all the the details to ensure day when you smell it your event is as beautiful as it is perfectly planned. years later!

From identifying style goals, to helping choose colors and flowers, to designing lighting and table styling, make sure your event is dressed head to toe in absolute style. This includes styling the bride, the wedding party, and family, choosing and coordinating their outfits to ensure your big day has one cohesive look and meets your style objectives. a

Photos of Katie Jackson-Meara by Dean Thorsen and Carasco Photography

FASHION & BEAUTY

DON’T-MISS EVENT

brides, bubbles, AND bliss Founder Cara Nava shares her inspiration behind the modern bridal event

KATIE’S WEDDING DAY STYLE ADVICE In addition to being a planner, Katie is a killer stylist, too. Check out her suggestions for dressing the wedding party:

FOR THE MEN Your groom deserves to stand out, too! (Especially if everyone is wearing the same suit.) If the wedding is more casual, consider no jackets or ties for the groomsmen, or having the groom in a bow tie and the groomsmen in long ties. If you like the continuity of matching looks, consider giving the groom a different colored tie. Socks and cuff links are a fun little accessory that often go overlooked. I love bright socks for an unexpected touch, or monogrammed cuff links for a bridal party gift.

FOR THE WOMEN If you choose bold dresses or colors, keep the accessorizing simple to avoid over doing it. Likewise, neutral colors allow for a little extra playing—different styles in the same color or different shoes for each bridesmaid. Remember makeup, nail polish, and flowers are great accessories. Have your girls in peep toe pumps with a bright pedicure color, or let your the bouquets act as the accent color.

After the excitement of the engagement dies down, many new brides find themselves confused on what to do next.

That’s where Cara and Scott Nava want to help. Three years ago, the husband-and-wife duo (who also happen to be fantastic wedding photographers) founded Brides, Bubbles, and Bliss, a Chicago-based wedding fair for the modern bride.

“Our vision was to create and produce an event that caters to the couple who want to go beyond the traditional,” she says. Their beyond-traditional offerings include tastings by premier caterers, dazzling drinks, live entertainment, and a runway show where brides can see couture gowns and accessories up close. Although it’s been a big undertaking, Nava says they’ve enjoyed every moment.

“Hosting and producing BBB has been such a fulfilling experience on so many levels. We’ve learned so much information about the industry and wanted to share that information with our fans on a regular basis.” That regular basis will be in the form of BBB TV, where viewers will be able to tune in year-round for wedding inspiration via the BBB website.

Blissful, indeed! bridesbubblesandbliss.com a

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design details

Food & Drink Cherry Blossom Beauty DESIGN: Ron Ben-Israel Cakes INSPIRATION: Soft Spring buds LOCATION: New York MORE INFO: weddingcakes.com PHOTO: Courtesy Ron Ben-Israel Cakes

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FOOD & DRINK

Ladylike fashions

Cake Walk These design-minded confections are seriously tasteful post-ceremony centerpieces

WEDDING CAKE WONDERMAN

Left to right: DESIGN: Chanel Pearl

by Maisie Fantaisie INSPIRATION:

Edwardian England’s romantic golden age DESIGN: Textile Panels and Satin

by Maisie Fantaisie INSPIRATION:

Bride’s bodice LOCATION: London MORE INFO:

maisiefantaisie.co.uk PHOTOS: Courtesy Maisie Fantaisie

Pastry Perfection DESIGN: Green Tea Mousse Cake by Lady M INSPIRATION: Japanese pastries LOCATION: New York MORE INFO: ladym.com PHOTO: Lester Echem

Ron Ben-Israel Food Network star Ron Ben-Israel shares the details behind his (sweet) genius creations Weddings by Design: Over the course of your career, have you noticed a difference in how brides and grooms think about their wedding cakes?

Ron Ben-Israel: When I started, I found that couples were ready to point out what was pretty, but didn’t know that I could customize the cake just for them.

WBD: What’s the most important factor a couple should consider when choosing a cake?

RBI: Flavor should be number one. I would rather serve a simple but delicious cake rather than a pretty creation that doesn’t taste good.

WBD: What kinds of wedding cake trends will be big for 2013?

RBI: We’ll be making a lot of cakes with surface textures, such as damask, quilting, confectionery lace appliqué, and molded architectural details. Of course, I love the more traditional and romantic cakes—they still pull a string in my heart.

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FOOD & DRINK

Perfect pastels LOCATION: Washington, D.C. MORE INFO: maggieaustincake.com PHOTOS: Courtesy Maggie Austin Cake Left to right: DESIGN: Tiffany Pond Lily

by Maggie Austin

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INSPIRATION: Tiffany Pond

Lily Globe DESIGN: Gradient Frill

by Maggie Austin INSPIRATION: Ombre fades DESIGN: Ribbon & Roses INSPIRATION: Blush tone hues

Floral Abstraction LOCATION: Washington, DC MORE INFO: maggieaustincake.com PHOTOS: Courtesy Maggie Austin Cake Left to right: DESIGN: Orange Camellia Rose by Yummy Cakes

INSPIRATION: Bold Blooms DESIGN: Vera cake by Yummy Cakes INSPIRATION: Vera Wang bridal

couture LOCATION: Sydney MORE INFO: yummycupcakes.com.au PHOTOS: Courtesy Yummy Cakes

FOOD & DRINK

Delicate PLumes DESIGN: Woodland cake by Nicki’s Cakes INSPIRATION: Forest flora and fauna LOCATION: Wilmington, NC MORE INFO: nickiscakes.com PHOTO: Millie Holloman Photography

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FOOD & DRINK

haute hors d’oEUVRES Start the party off right with a stylish—and tasty!—cocktail hour

Wendy Pashman of Entertaining Company catering recommends coordinating your hors d’oeuvres with your main course menu for a seamless culinary experience.

“The hors d’oeuvres hour is a prelude to the main meal. It should set the tone but not duplicate the flavors.” That’s Wendy Pashman’s take on wedding cocktail hours.

Pashman, who runs catering firm Entertaining Company in Chicago, has provided delicious food for thousands of elegant weddings for more than 20 years.

To make the cocktail hour hors d’oeuvres unforgettable, Pashman suggests serving a wide selection of foods that incorporate tastes and

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smells from around the world. “It is the absolute best time to be adventurous,” she says. “A small cocktail Indian samosa, for example, is small enough for trying and testing without committing to a whole entrée-size portion.”

Pashman also encourages serving small custom cocktails that will entice guests to try new foods without overwhelming their palates.

And as with any element at a wedding, the presentation of the bites is key. Pashman

Photos by Linda Bergonia for Entertaining Company

and her colleagues at Entertaining Company always match their serving pieces to each wedding’s overall style, such as mirrored trays for glamorous fetes and simple white ceramics for minimalist parties. Pashman even fashions roasted vegetables into serving vessels for more organic weddings. One thing she says they won’t do? Use hors d’oeuvres from the freezer. “A company has to be committed to taking the slow, more delicious route,” she says. a

FOOD & DRINK

SIGNATURE DRINK RECIPE

Love Blooms

This aptly named bubbly cocktail will have your guests lining up at the bar for more

Pashman says to get adventurous with the bites during cocktail hour. Sushi and other foods from around the world will give guests a chance to experience other cultures

Guests will love indulging in a small taste of decadent comfort foods, but without the calories (or guilt) of a full-size portion

What bride doesn’t love a cocktail that is pink, sparkly, and garnished with a flower?

In a shaker combine: 1.5 parts American Harvest Organic Spirit .75 parts Lillet Rose Aperitif .75 parts Grapefruit Syrup Shake well with ice, strain into a champagne flute, top with champagne. Garnish with an edible flower such as a pansy.

To make the grapefruit syrup, mix equal parts sugar and fresh squeezed and strained grapefruit juice in a sealed container and shake until dissolved. Keep in the refrigerator, it will last a week.

Cocktail created by Todd Richman, Corporate Mixologist for Sidney Frank Importing Co., Inc. a

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FOOD & DRINK

Ladies Who Lunch

Celebrate the bride-to-be with a dainty midday fete A well-designed bridal luncheon is an extra special affair. “Bridal luncheons are about celebrating the bride, so don’t be afraid to play up the girliness,” says wedding planner Laura Helm. Helm, who runs Ashton Events, likes to build luncheons using ladylike themes.

She recently played off the feminine retro styles found in the movie The Help to create the perfect setting for a lunch. “We wanted to highlight the bridge games that happen throughout the movie,” she says.

“We were inspired by the rose print we used for the table runner and chairs, as well as the vintage rose playing cards. The whole look was very classy but lighthearted.” Helm carried the rose throughout the party’s invitations, place cards, and centerpieces, and kept the color palette to sherbet tones to keep the style whimsical without overdoing it.

Worried you won’t be able to pull of a theme without looking corny? Helm says don’t be. “Don’t let having a theme be a stumbling block. Base the day around the bride, incorporate her favorite things, and you can’t go wrong!” a

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Photos by Jordan Weiland, jordanweiland.com

Light salads and petite portions look pretty and also leave plenty of room for splendid desserts

FOOD & DRINK

Stations With a Twist Custom dinner stations take one wedding from spectacular to truly unforgettable SUSHI

PASTRIES

BAR

COFFEE

LUXE LOUNGE

Laura Helm of Ashton Events and Kristi Haddad of Markit Photography became instant friends in college, a relationship that budded in to the perfect combination for creating and capturing magic wedding moments. “Laura has the creativity and I see the quiet beauty, I see a unique story,” Haddad says of their work together. Her photography captures Helm’s designs in action on couples’ big days, forever preserving the candid moments, unseen moments, and all around love.

I

t can be hard to make cuisines from all over the globe seem cohesive. But at one San Francisco wedding, the bride and groom played up their dinner’s diversity by creating a thematic “Restaurant Row.” Bay Area props and decor design firm Blueprint Studios built five restaurant booths from scratch to set the scene, theming each around a distinct cuisine. “There was a sushi station, a patisserie, a coffee shop, a tavern, and an Indochinese cocktail bar,” says Camila Pinzon of Blueprint. Plush settees and mirrored low tables casually arranged in front of the stations allowed guests to enjoy their dinner in an equally whimsical style. “Everything about this wedding was special,” Pinzon says. “The decor created the right ambience and made a stunning impression.” a Wedding designed and planned by Gloria Wong

Images courtesy of Blueprint Studios

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FOOD & DRINK

Delectable Dinner Design Don’t just serve your guests dinner, design it! Event planner Kelven Book shows us how

If you have a guest list full of finicky palates, try making your wedding menu stand out by emphasizing a bold design theme instead of exotic flavors. “Themes are a way to give a meal a sense of design and cohesion,” says event planner Kelven Book of Canard, Inc. “They can make the event all your own.” So how can you translate your design details into food? Book suggests the following:

DIY TIP Garment finishes, such as buttons and ribbons, can inspire food platings, too.

“A row of round satin buttons can be echoed in a row of stunning scallops served as the entrée,” Book says.

Childhood favorites can be turned into stylish passed appetizers and desserts.

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Look to fabrics for textures and patterns that can be turned into food. “The lace of a veil can be mimicked in a parmesan tuille crisp,” Book says.

Images courtesy of Canard, Inc.

Experiment with flavors.

Replace typical vanilla and chocolate desserts with savory tastes like rosemary and thyme.

Edible florals nicely complement floral decor elements. “A hibiscus pattern can be recreated as an edible hibiscus flower in a champagne cocktail or rose petals in a rose gimlet.”

FOOD & DRINK

Expert Tips

eat, drink, and be merry all day long Consider these pert pointers to keep guests full and happy throughout your big day

Food is an essential element in any celebration, and weddings are no exception. “Food is really important, and the more you can factor it in, the better,” says Chicago event planner Michelle Durpetti. Here, she shares five smart suggestions for making your wedding food truly memorable.

• Serve guests a little something before the ceremony. “Consider having butler-passed light fare and refreshments prior to the ceremony,” Durpetti says.

• Keep your cocktail hour to true cocktails and delicious hors d’oeuvres. “A cocktail hour should be exactly what it claims to be, an hour of cocktails,” Durpetti says.

• Don’t let dietary restrictions hold back your dinner course creativity. “We worked with a couple who had some food allergies but really didn’t want to skimp,” Durpetti says. “We partnered with Pure Kitchen and created a menu that featured gluten-free short ribs and other delectable meals that fit their needs.”

• Artful tables featuring candy, pie, or a couple’s favorite local treat add a sweet twist to wedding dessert. “Couture sweets are very in right now, and no one does it better in Chicago than Amy DiTomasso at Sugar Chic Designs,” Durpetti says.

• Consider giving guests a “foodie tour map” so they can enjoy their meals outside of the big day, too. “Not only will they get to taste the culinary options of your wedding’s location, they will also get to know it, too,” Durpetti says. a

Calihan Catering photos by Heather Parker Photography

Good Looking Food When it comes to wedding food, good looks and good taste go hand in hand

“Wedding food shouldn’t be mediocre, it should be great!” That’s Lee Calihan’s perspective, and she applies it to every wedding her company caters. Calihan, who helps run Chicago’s Calihan Catering, knows that in the foodie-driven world, every element of a wedding meal has to be well designed. This means that both ingredients and plating have to be at the top of their game. “Couples have really gotten excited about all artisanal items, such as our cheeses, breads, and wines, craft cocktails and punches, and seasonal menus that highlight market items,” she says. To make the food look as delicious as it tastes, Calihan recommends making plating design an early part of the wedding process. “Make sure the plates fit with the rest of the design of the event, and that the food looks delicious,” she says.

“Incorporating lots of different colors and textures will help make the plate look as great as the decor.” a

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design details

Locations & Destinations

Shelter Co.’s wedding weekends offerings include alfresco dining, yoga retreats, and outdoor movie viewings

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LOCATIONS & DESTINATIONS

Take Shelter

Decor: I love the unexpected: multiple strands of ribbon in lieu of a table runner; all monochromatic tones in the ceremony (I’ve been dying to do an ombre fade of chair colors starting from light to dark going down the aisle); hanging actual lighting fixtures from trees to create an outdoor living room feel.

One company is taking “glamping” to a new level

Kelsey’s Top Picks

Here are some wedding ideas and favorites from the glamper herself

Matthew Williams feather-trimmed silk-tulle dress, $6,500, courtesy NET-A-PORTER.COM

S

an Francisco-based Shelter Co. is on a mission to help brides and grooms-to-be bend the traditional wedding rules—and they’re taking it to the great outdoors to make it happen. Founder Kelsey Sheofsky created the pop-up camping sites for people wanting to connect with nature, but without sacrificing a luxe experience.

“We like to take into account what nature has already provided for us and then accentuate and work with those elements,” says Sheofsky. “We’re never in a position where we need to cover up an ugly light fixture or horrible patterned carpet; we’re already starting with a gorgeous setting that’s different every time.

It doesn’t get any better than that.”

Sheofsky has made a career of planning and executing weddings and events even before launching Shelter Co. “Over the past six years, I’ve planned countless weddings that took a year to plan, a large amount of money to produce, and were over in the blink of an eye.

So much money is spent making sure all the important people are able to attend, but then they may not even interact with one another once they are there,” she says. “By hosting everyone on a property for a full weekend, it creates a true sense of community, fostering new relationships that go beyond the pleasantries of normal wedding interaction. This was really the inspiration for launching our company in the first place.”

Fully furnished European-style canvas tents resembling luxury hotel rooms are equipped with a wood bedframe and real mattress, 400 thread count bedding, down comforter and

Wedding attire: I'm a fan of the outfit change. Something dramatic is great for the ceremony, but maybe not for getting down on the dance floor. A second dress is a great solution.

Flowers: Anything fresh and local. Fruits and herbs are a great way to add color and texture in addition to traditional floral elements.

Products: A well-crafted welcome bag or box filled with the couple’s favorite things is great for guests.

Maybe there’s a local nut farmer who makes the most amazing cinnamon covered nuts, or an olive oil producer who infuses his oils with herbs. And of course, local wine is a no brainer. Items that are outdoors-related like a headlamp, waterproof camera, and a s’mores kit are really fun to include, too.

Wood flashlight from Areaware, areaware.com; Help products, helpineedhelp.com

pillows, and lounge seating. Activity and and full catering services are readily available. lounge tents equipped with vignette seating, “This is camping, evolved, but not without bar setups, beauty stations, children’s fur- losing sight of what’s truly important,” says nishing and games, and a stocked library are Sheofsky. “We want clients and event proavailable to help make each guest’s stay more ducers to come to us with ideas and locaunique and comfortable. And for brides and tions on where they’d like to set up their grooms looking to pack in a bit more luxury, Shelter Co. experience. Shelter Co. is not options to customize your wedding weekend meant to be a static experience in fixed lowith a la carte services ranging from dog tents cations only—we’ll go where the wind, and to yoga retreats to an outdoor movie theater the celebration, takes us.” a

Images courtesy of Shelter Co.

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LOCATIONS & DESTINATIONS

Go West!

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Thinking of a U.S. location for your destination wedding?

Consider these two cozy inns in the Pacific Northwest that prove the great outdoors can still be strikingly chic

Cave B Inn & Spa

Knob Hill Inn

Quincy, WA

Ketchum, Idaho

Cave B Inn & Spa looks out over Washington State’s breathtaking Columbia River Gorge. The Inn isn’t just an oasis on the river’s bluff, it’s a full-fledged winery, too. “Along with the scenery, wine plays a key role in all that is Cave B Inn & Spa,” says Blake Helgerson, who manages the property’s rooms.

“The word ‘romantic’ is an understatement when describing our location,” says Shannon Allen, Knob Hill Inn’s manager. Knob Hill sits in Sun Valley surrounded by Idaho’s craggy Boulder Mountains. “Ceremonies almost always take place outside in our picturesque garden setting,” Allen says.

The on-site winery bottles a wide range of varietals ranging from robust reds to crisp whites. The inn itself offers nearly as many types of accommodations, from classic rooms in the main lodge to more quirky desert yurts located a short distance down the road. And with all that space, weddings usually sprawl across the entire property.

“A typical wedding will transition into three different locations throughout the day,” Helgerson says. “First, the ceremony site, set along the beautiful river cliffside.

Second, the cocktail site, which showcases our luxurious vineyards. And last, the reception site, where dinner and dancing take place under the stars.” Sounds like the perfect place to get married if you want to enjoy great wine and wide-open space. a

Unlike most resorts, Knob Hill doesn’t have any pre-set wedding packages.

“We do not require set menus, set decor, set times, or specific details,” Allen says. “Couples can really make their weddings their own, and we work with them to make that happen.” Most brides and grooms opt for an outdoor affair, but Sun Valley experiences all four seasons. So if a wintry wedding is more your style, they can accommodate that, too.

“Knob Hill can become an outdoor mountain oasis, as well as a cozy winter retreat,” Allen says. “Paired with our rustic European charm and the natural elements, our inn makes for an ideal place to get married.” a

Weddings by Design

Images courtesy of Cave B Inn & Spa and Knob Hill Inn

LOCATIONS & DESTINATIONS

Happily Delicious Weddings

Our brides and grooms come to us wishing for the same thing – whether it be a celebration that is modern, traditional, religious or reminiscent of the South Seas island where they first fell in love – every couple dreams of a celebration that is perfectly reflective of their special union. At Entertaining Company, our uniquely cultural approach to catering is matched only by our flawless execution and meticulous attention to detail. Extraordinary weddings, blend timeless traditions with the trends of tomorrow to create events that include bridal showers, rehearsal or prenuptial dinners and after wedding brunches that are magnificent, moving and memorable for all.

Entertaining Company | Call us at 312.829.2800 | www.entertainingcompany.com

LOCATIONS & DESTINATIONS

Designing From Afar Getting married on a tropical beach or alpine mountaintop makes for spectacular photo-ops, but the planning that goes into destination weddings can be daunting. Here, two wedding planners give advice to brides planning their big day from afar.

Vanessa Van Wieren Founder of Alchemy Fine Events Cardiff by the bay, ca WBD: How can a bride incorporate her destination location without going overboard?

Vanessa Van Wieren: Whatever you do, don’t feel that you have to lose you to honor the destination locale. Bring it in as an accent, not onto the main stage. For our Tuscan wedding’s table, we incorporated modern Louis Ghost Chairs, lucite candleholders, and mirrored cube boxes and then mixed them with a Tuscan style farm table and locally purchased textiles.

WBD: What design details should a destination bride focus on to drive home her wedding’s style and aesthetic?

Jamie Chang founder of mango muse events, los altos, ca WBD: You had a destination wedding in Paris. Tell us a little bit more about planning your dream nuptials.

VVW: Tablescapes are the perfect canvas to express your designs and tell a story. Design around local flowers to bring in the destination’s flair. If you aren’t too comfortable with your destination florist’s skills, hire one where you live and have them do a test run! Once you perfect your tablescape locally, take a ton of photos and even sketch out placement of the decor so that when you pass off the design plan to your destination florist, it’s a no-brainer. a

Jamie Chang: Paris was the first place we both thought of. We had fallen in love with the city on a trip we took a few years back and it just felt right for us. We also knew exactly where we wanted to get married, the Musée Rodin. It’s a little oasis in the middle of the city that is just peaceful and lovely. We really wanted to share an experience beyond a wedding.

WBD: What is the most important thing a couple should consider when deciding on a destination location?

JC: I think the absolute most important thing is that you choose a place that means something to you as a couple. Perhaps it is a location that you visit annually, or where you got engaged, or where your grandparents were from. The couple feels totally thrilled to be there, and you can see that on their faces. That kind of excitement is infectious, so everyone ends up being in this state of bliss. a 54

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Images courtesy of Alchemy Fine Events and Mango Muse Events

Red Fish Blue Fish

Jenny Jimenez

Cory Parris

photo credit: Kevin Weinstein Photography

www.

312.327.0111

.com

LOCATIONS & DESTINATIONS

Honeymoon Hotspots Whether you’re looking for a far-off destination or somewhere stateside, these stylish resorts offer up peace, quiet, and plenty of pampering so you can spend time with your newly minted honey in post-bridal bliss.

Newlywed Getaways Looking for a specific style of honeymoon, but unsure of where to go? Travel agent Beth Justus of Piazza Travel shares where to find a well-matched experience for two. “It’s critical to make a good choice,” says Justus. “It’s a memory you will have for the rest of your life.”

By Lesley Stanley

Tropical Bora Bora “Known for its stunning scenery and over-the-water bungalows, this island in French Polynesia will forever remain a first-rate destination for couples craving relaxation and privacy.”

Costa Rica “Spend a lazy day on the beach and the next day hiking to waterfalls or zip-lining over the rainforest. With a name that means ‘Rich Coast,’ this Latin American hotspot is perfect for both rest and adventure.”

Ellerman House location: cape town, south africa go for the: new world style & old world charm Ellerman House is a hotel with roots that date back to 1912, when it was a summer estate for wealthy British shipping baron Sir John Ellerman. With only 11 rooms in the original home and three in the adjoining contemporary villa, it’s definitely small. But what it lacks in size, it makes up in its location; Ellerman House is located right in the heart of Cape Town’s Victoria and Alfred waterfront, situated between popular tourist sites Robben Island and Table Mountain. And when you’re through touring the city, you can take advantage of Ellerman’s plush amenities. “Ellerman has acres of landscaped gardens, hundreds of pieces of unique South African art, and a wine cellar boasting 7,500 bottles of South African wine,” says marketing director Lindsy Marais. There’s even a special Champagne cave coming soon, so you can pick out your favorite bubbly to toast your new life, and enjoy great wine and wide-open space. a

location: seattle, wa go for the: downtown digs & laid-back vibe Hotel 1000 is the perfect solution for honeymooners who don’t want to travel too far from home, but want to experience both the city and the great outdoors in one spot. The chic property sits right in downtown Seattle and is only a few blocks from the famous Pike Place Market, where you can see, hear, and taste the city’s local culture (yep, they really do throw fish here). If you feel like exploring the area, jump on the Bainbridge Island Ferry. It’s only a 35-minute ride to picturesque Puget Sound, but the secluded isle feels like it’s hundreds of miles away from Seattle’s hustle and bustle.

Upon your return to the hotel, opt for a relaxing massage or facial at aptly named Spaahh, or enjoy a cocktail at on-site restaurant Boka.

You’ll be in honeymoon heaven in no time. a Weddings by Design

Kenya “Feeling venturesome? Try out an African safari, and stay the night in tented camps near local wildlife.”

Thailand “Enjoy a low-key day on the beaches of Koh Samui or bond with elephants at a rescue reserve in the bustling city of Chiang Mai for a truly unique experience.”

Cultural Italy “Roam the vineyards of Tuscany or hike through the rugged terrain of Cinque Terre. If it’s your first visit, the popular cities of Rome, Venice, and Florence are all ripe for romance, and easy to maneuver around.”

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Adventurous

Images courtesy of Ellerman House and Hotel 1000

Greece “Admire the classic architecture and nosh on the local eats of Santorini, an island Southeast of the mainland, or sink into Grecian culture in Athens at a museum or in an open-air theater.”

For more information, contact beth@piazzatrvl.com

Using two turntables and a microphone, plus LED screens and projectors, Bamboo Beats creates an interactive audio-visual experience that will get everyone on the dance floor. “We are universal, party-rocking DJs,” says founder and DJ extraordinaire Joanna Dyckhoff. Bamboo Beats specializes in blending eclectic musical styles and genres and offering up live performances, the first DJs to do so in the Seattle area. Book them now, and they’ll be sure to get the party going.

MULTICULTURAL MATRIMONY

let’s celebrate!

No matter your culture, everyone loves a wedding.

Here are a few tricks to bridge the cultural gap so everyone has a good time It’s wonderful to weave strong cultural traditions into your wedding. But just remember that not all your guests may understand their significance. To ward off feelings of wedding isolation, it’s important to make everybody feel welcome. “Explain everything,” says Meg Hotchkiss of La Vie en Rose Events.

“The better your guests understand the traditions and rituals that you have chosen to incorporate, the more moving they will find them and their joy will be greater in celebrating,” she says.

Hotchkiss suggests that couples explain the personal reasons for incorporating particular rituals or traditions, and says it’s key to provide translations for anything that may take place in another language. Also consider printing programs for all wedding events, which will help guests anticipate and understand the wedding’s big moments over the course of the day. And when all else fails, play some oldies and hit the dance floor. “Motown, or any music with a good beat, appeals to a diverse crowd,” Hotchkiss says. In the words of Kool & the Gang, “Celebrate good times, come on!” a

wed in the city Chicago’s Ivy Room hits the perfect balance between country garden and urban chic It’s easy to pass by The Ivy Room.

The elegant venue is hidden off the street, nestled into a bustling Chicago block with quite a bit of history.

While The Ivy Room is one venue, it's actually spread across two distinct spaces. Inside, a beautifully appointed ballroom is perfect for dinner and dancing, while the private outdoor courtyard is a dreamy backdrop for a quiet ceremony and relaxed cocktail hour. “The thing we hear most about Ivy Room is that it is a perfect blank canvas,” says Donna Albertson, director of marketing.

“It’s nicely finshed but it offers a tremendous amount of freedom to couples looking to create a unique and personal ambience.” One of her favorite weddings to date? A Halloween-inspired fete that managed to look classic and not corny. “They found a way to create an extrememly elegant, sophisticated space inspired by the holiday,” Albertson says. We bet it involved all that beautiful ivy. a

La Vie en Rose photo by Dan Loh. Ivy Room outdoor courtyard photo by Olivia Leigh Photogrpahie and reception shot by David Wittig.

Love is in the Details

ANY WEDDING PLANNER WILL TELL YOU IT’S THE SMALL THINGS THAT STAND OUT. HERE ARE 10 OF OUR FAVORITE (AND PERFECTLY PLANNED) FêTES

SWEETCHIC EVENTS BRIDE & GROOM: Maya Ragavan and Sidharth Rajagopal DESIGNER:

Charlene Liang

VENUE & LOCATION: Chicago Botanic Gardens, Chicago, IL PHOTOGRAPHER: Fragola Productions,

fragolaproductions.com “Make your wedding incredible by turning it into a full sensory experience with sights, sounds, tastes, etc.,” Liang says. “Maya and Sid wanted to give their guests an Indian experience while keeping their wedding intimate and surrounded by beauty and nature. They hired a traditional Indian band to play during the ceremony and cocktail hour, served Indian food, and played off the traditional red and gold Indian wedding palette.”

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SOUTHERN PROTOCOL BRIDE & GROOM:

Sarah and

Hartley Claypool DESIGNER:

Lizz Akerman

VENUE & LOCATION: Lowndes Grove Plantation, Charleston, SC PHOTOGRAPHER: Gayle Brooker,

gaylebrooker.com “Sarah embraced tradition, but it didn’t look dated,” says Akerman, Southern Protocol’s founder. To get the look just right, Akerman balanced soft pinks with cheery greens and turned to personalized elements, like a traditional guestbook done in the exact damask print used for the wedding linens.

Roses added a classic touch to wedding’s design. “Roses tend to get a bad rap, yet here they were perfect,” Akerman says.

Guests enjoyed the sunset from classic furniture placed at the water’s edge.

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Mwd lifestyles BRIDE & GROOM: DESIGNER:

Mae and Lawrence Wu

Marc Wilson

VENUE & LOCATION:

The Eventi Hotel, New

York, NY PHOTOGRAPHER: 5 West Studios,

5weststudios.com “Mae loved red and wanted to have a predominantly red look and feel for the wedding,” says Wilson. He kept the vivid hue refined by keeping competing colors sparse. Red roses, orchids, hydrangeas, and carnations filled the reception’s high and low centerpieces, while black chivari chairs anchored each table’s look.

“Accenting the room’s colors with various other shades of red created a very strong, subtle yet dynamic experience,” he says.

A variety of tassled Chinese lanterns nodded to the couple’s heritage.

BLISS WEDDINGS & EVENTS BRIDE & GROOM:

Becky and Nilay Patel

DESIGNER: Renny Pedersen VENUE & LOCATION:

Bridgeport Art Center,

Chicago, IL PHOTOGRAPHER: Studio This Is, studiothisis.

com “Becky and Nilay have both been to a lot of hotel ballroom Indian weddings. They really wanted something different,” says head Bliss planner Pedersen. To make the Patel wedding really stand out, Bliss kicked off with the traditional Indian ceremony. They shut down Chicago’s famed LaSalle Street, and the families danced in front of the Board of Trade for a full 45 minutes. The party then moved to the edgy, urban Bridgeport Arts Center for the Christian ceremony and dance party reception.

Like the Patel’s over-the-top decor?

Designer Jesse Deckard from Event Creative turned Bliss’ ideas into reality. See page 22 for more of his work.

A 60-foot screen installed in Bridgeport’s loading dock was Pedersen’s favorite design touch. “The screen played really loud and colorful Bollywood videos. It was amazing!”

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FLOURISH EVENTS BRIDE & GROOM:

Kelly and Anthony Davis

DESIGNER: Lindsey Nartker VENUE & LOCATION:

Meadow Brook Hall,

Rochester, MI Blaine Siesser, siesserphotography.com

PHOTOGRAPHER:

“Kelly and Anthony wanted their guests to feel at home, comfortable with their surroundings, and most importantly, well taken care of,” says event designer

Lindsey Nartker. A vintage soda display set the tone for the weddding’s decor and offered guests a refreshing drink prior to the ceremony. Inside the reception tent, Nartker used milk glass, mercury glass, and wood containers to display romantic blooms, and even changed up the arrangements on each table. “Keeping the designs different on each table encouraged guests to explore the entire tent, always giving them something fresh and interesting to find,” Nartker says.

Photos of loved ones injected personal charm into the wedding’s cozy style.

Weddings by Design

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LA BELLE FLEUR EVENTS BRIDE & GROOM: DESIGNER:

Sarah and Ryan

Ashley La Fleur

VENUE & LOCATION:

Chicago Cultural

Center, Chicago, IL PHOTOGRAPHER: Anna Guziak,

annaguziak.com “Sarah wanted an elegant wedding that didn’t feel stuffy,” La Fleur says. “Stylistically, we were on the same page because she enjoyed effortless romance: a wedding that is beautiful but feels comfortable.”

Sarah and Ryan married in the Cultural Center’s stunning Preston Bradley Hall. “It’s famous for its 38-foot Tiffany Dome, the largest in the world,” La Fleur says. To make the space feel more intimate and warm, she hung drapes and placed candles at various heights.

Grays and pinks anchored the decor. Peonies, roses, and hydrangeas balanced the strong gray table linens to make sure the April wedding looked sophisticated instead of too sweet.

A DAY IN MAY EVENTS BRIDE & GROOM: DESIGNER:

Kim and Mark Mastrangeli

Alicia Caldercott

VENUE & LOCATION:

Camp Redmonds,

Suttons Bay, MI PHOTOGRAPHER: Jen Kroll Photography,

jenkrollphotography.com “Kim and Mark had been to 16 weddings the year before their own, so when they came to me, they said, ‘We want something different,’” says Caldecott, owner of A Day in May Events. To make their wedding look beachy but not tropical, Caldecott used blues, greens, and earthy tones to anchor the decor. Lighting was of prime importance, and Caldecott used different sources, including candlelight and drop down West Elm drum shades, to cast a soft glow. “We wanted to envelop everything in light to make it feel comfortable,” she says of the overall design.

Rattan chargers kept the tables feeling rustic but polished.

At dusk, Caldecott lit more than 600 candles on the beach. “The weather was perfect— not a single one blew out!”

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MAKE MY DAY EVENT PLANNING BRIDE & GROOM:

Stacey Billings and Jimmy

Thomas DESIGNER:

Leeanne Silicato Prosser

VENUE & LOCATION:

Lewes, DE

Nassau Valley Vineyard,

PHOTOGRAPHER: Matt & Nat Photography,

mattnnatblog.com “Stacey came to us two years before her wedding to make sure she had plenty of time to plan every detail,” says Make My Day co-founder Prosser. “Their goal was to have a classy vineyard affair with some bold design details.”

The bride and groom chose deep blues and vivid oranges for their palette. Bright orange pomanders played off the copper chivari chairs to punch up the ceremony’s rustic site, but “we intentionally saved the blue tones to debut as a new element at the reception,” Silicato Prosser says.

Homemade favors—beer for the gentlemen, strawberry jam for the ladies

Weddings by Design

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HEY DAY EVENT LAB BRIDE & GROOM:

Lauren and Matt

Lewis DESIGNER:

Jamie Lou

VENUE & LOCATION: The bride’s childhood backyard

Byan & Mae, blog. bryanandmae.net

PHOTOGRAPHER:

“Lauren and Matt planned their wedding day on Lauren’s parents’ property tucked in the woods next to a serene pond,” Lou says. “They wanted a fun, casual garden party with delicious food, so everything was very natural and casual.”

Collections of chairs and lawn games enticed guests to spend some time together outdoors. “The bride’s parents spent an afternoon picking up their friends’ patio sets so that the yard could be peppered with casual seating,” Lou says.

After-dinner s’mores were a big hit at the evening bonfire.

SWEETGRASS SOCIAL BRIDE & GROOM: Meagan and Liam McDonough DESIGNER:

Meredith Severs

VENUE & LOCATION: Middleton Place Plantation, Charleston, SC PHOTOGRAPHER: The Connellys,

theconnellys.com “Meagan was going for Southern garden meets rustic chic,” Severs says. “She loved the idea of a romantic setting and wanted to incorporate pops of teal.”

A cake made to look like a Sweetgrass basket and Sweetgrass roses placed at each guest’s seat are a nod to Charleston’s culture.

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WELL WED

Photo by Richard B. Flores

Photo by Kate Triano

Photo by Visual Appeal Studios

Photo by Richard B. Flores

Photo by Kate Triano

event design flowers gardens weddings corporate events

NYC-based boutique wedding and event planner. Drama and stress free wedding planning for weddings of all sizes, styles, faiths and orientations. We are passionate about creating events that are stylish, personalized, and most of all fun.

245 West 29th Street, New York, NY 10001 212.594.8944 www.cornucopiaflowers.com

hello@LVREvents.com www.LVREvents.com Weddings by Design

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REAL WEDDINGS

WELL WED The phrase “a beautiful wedding” conjures up different images to different people. From tulle, tuxedos, and city settings to lace, linen, and water views, the number of truly chic wedding styles is nearly endless. We chose a few to serve as design inspirations, and their photos don’t lie: these five weddings are undeniably gorgeous.

Vanessa and Lance, photo

by James Moes.

Turn the page for more.

Weddings by Design

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Real Wedding

DESERT CHIC

Vanessa and Lance

The effortlessly cool Ace Hotel in Palm Springs fit Vanessa and Lance’s personality to a T. The bride, a photo producer, and the groom, a music video director, have that SoCal creative-yet-collected look down to a science, and they know how to show it both in real life and through images. “Since Lance is a music video director, he was quite aware of intentionally creating a story,” says James Moes, the couple’s wedding photographer. Moes particularly liked the bridal party’s chic clothing and the avant-garde couple portraits taken in the middle of the surrounding desert.

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PHOTOGRAPHER: James Moes VENUE: Ace Hotel, Palm Springs, California DAY-OF COORDINATOR: Celebrations of Joy CATERING: King's Highway FLOWERS: Mary @ Jensen’s Palm Springs BRIDE’S DRESS: Rochas BRIDE’S SHOES: Alexander Wang BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Asos GROOM’S SUIT AND TIE: Band of Outsiders SECOND SHOOTER: Jeff Marsh

WELL WED

Weddings by Design

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Real Wedding

WESTERN LOVE STORY Courtney and Noah

Courtney and Noah’s wedding was literally made for the silver screen: the couple married at the famed Paramount Ranch, a former movie set where Paramount Studios shot hundreds of Westerns over 70 years. “We met at a cowboy bar and both love nature, film, and vintage Americana, so Paramount Ranch couldn’t have been more perfect,” Courtney Nye says. Both the bride and groom work in design, so they took it upon themselves to create their entire wedding look. Courtney designed, printed, cut, stamped, painted, and hand-wrote every paper good for the wedding, incorporating the couple’s favorite typewriter font as a nod to Noah’s tattoos. Loosely designed bouquets added the perfect unruly touch, and an 1897 Benz Mylord Coupe—it’s only one of two existing original models—served as the perfect getaway car.

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Sloan Photographers VENUE: Paramount Ranch, Agoura Hills, CA COORDINATOR: Courtney Nye Design FLORAL DESIGN: Courtney Nye Design CATERING: Huntington Catering Company VIDEOGRAPHY: Aqua Vivus Productions

Weddings by Design

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Real Wedding

EARTHY ETHEREAL Bethany and Derrick

Photographer James Moes knew he’d get along well with Bethany and Derrick even before shooting their wedding. “We had mutual friends, so we knew pretty quickly that we were kindred spirits,” says Moes. He found they were kindred spirits with like-minded tastes. “I like a wedding with quirky style, and they took their wedding to the next level with a Marie Antoinette inspired affair.” The bride’s hair became a talking point and one of Moes’ favorite design details. “Bethany’s hair.was.epic. You either loved it or hated it. I loved it.”

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PHOTOGRAPHER: James Moes CEREMONY VENUE: Aldergrove Lake Regional Park, Langley, BC RECEPTION VENUE: Burnaby Lake Rowing Pavilion, Burnaby, BC WEDDING PLANNER: Alison Priebe CATERER: Klassic Catering INVITATIONS: Elizabeth Mans DRESS: Romona Keveza Spring 2009 GROOM ATTIRE: MEXX, Le Chateau, H+M BRIDESMAID ATTIRE: H+M, RW+Co

WELL WED

Weddings by Design

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Real Wedding

BEACH BEAUTIFUL Jaime and Mike

For Jaime and Mike, the right move for their wedding was to stay close to home. “We loved having the ceremony and party at my parents’ beach house,” says Jaime. “It made everything familiar, comfortable, and intimate.” The reception featured the bride’s and groom’s favorite foods served fresh off the family stove by Contemporary Catering, who created island-style noshes to match the light and airy vibe of the day. Another perfect creation? Jaime’s dress, which was a mash-up of two different vintage dresses, and was completed the week before the wedding. She says, “It was personal, unique, and came out exactly how I imagined!”

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Braedon Flynn VENUE: Private Residence, Hermosa Beach, CA PLANNING: Be Inspired PR FLORAL AND EVENT DESIGN: JL Designs STATIONERY: Pitbulls and Posies CATERING: Contemporary Catering CAKE AND DESSERTS: Cupcakes Couture BRIDE’S DRESS: Vintage

WELL WED

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FEATURE

From the Eye of Elizabeth Messina A rustic-chic shoot in the Texas Hill country, styled by Mindy Weiss

In an industry filled with talented photographers, Elizabeth Messina has stood especially tall, thanks to her luminous lighting and emotion-filled wedding photography. She shares what brides should look for when booking a photographer for their big day, how to look relaxed in front of the camera, and also what aspiring wedding photographers should know before breaking into the business. INTERVIEW CONTINUED ON PAGE 80

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planning & design: Mindy Weiss floral design: Tricia Fountaine rentals: Classic Party Rentals venue: Rancho Dos Pueblos

design inspiration: "We were inspired by the thought of keeping the party going after the wedding! The tablescape is a late night s'mores roast with the couple's closest friends and family. The table is set with individual helpings of the sweet sandwiches and a refreshing glass of milk, with the fire pit located just outside the barn so everyone could enjoy freshly toasted treats." —Mindy Weiss Check out more from Mindy (including what makes her misty eyed about weddings) on p. 98

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M

any brides admire your work and aim to have shots that are just as beautiful as yours on their big day. Do you have any tips for couples when booking a photographer?

Your wedding photographer is perhaps one of the most important decisions you will make while planning your wedding. There are three essential elements to consider while you are in the process of picking a wedding photographer: First—it is important to see as many images as possible from each photographer you are considering for your wedding. Take time to meet with photographers and look at as many slideshows and albums as possible. The more work you view, the better idea you’ll have of the photographer’s style, consistency, and sensibility.

Second, a good photographer will be with you while you begin to get ready, during the ceremony, the first dance and more, capturing some of the most special and intimate moments. This is a delicate balance for a photographer, to be present and unobtrusive at the same time.

The more at ease and comfortable you feel around your photographer, the more natural and beautiful your wedding images will feel.

Third: the budget. It can be daunting trying to compare one photographer’s pricing to another, as pricing structures can vary as much as their images. The good news is there are talented photographers for every budget. If you have beautiful images you love, you can always find creative ways to display and share them with friends and family.

A lot of people have a hard time loosening up in front of the camera, which can be especially tough on your wedding day.

How do you get your couples to look so relaxed and natural?

I try to truly connect with my clients. Sometimes I’ll encourage them not to look at the camera, so we can start slow. Other times I’ll ask them to hold hands and walk away. This gives them a little space, which can be calming. I think the more a couple interacts with each other, the more natural they will feel. I also talk and listen, sometimes putting my camera down from time to time. The relationship and interaction with a client is one of the most important aspects of getting a natural and flattering image (that and the light, of course).

Do you have any advice for young wedding photographers just getting their start?

First, follow your heart—this is the is the simplest and the most complex advice there is. For me, that meant creating intimate images, that is what I am naturally drawn to. Second, keep your overhead low.

This is so important, especially in today’s economy. If you have a fancy studio and lots of expenses to maintain, you undoubtedly put a lot of pressure on yourself and your business. If your overhead is low, you give yourself much more freedom. There is no need to put a lot of undue stress on yourself. And third, embrace your own style. Here is a little secret: everybody has a style. The trick is learning to identify it and recreate it at will. A style is something that you hone and nurture over the course of your career. a View more of Elizabeth's work at www.kissthegroom.com, or in her first book, The Luminous Portrait, available on Amazon.com

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“The more at ease and comfortable you feel around your photographer, the more natural and beautiful your wedding images will feel.”

—elizabeth messina

wedding planning & coordination www.sweetchicevents.com charlene@sweetchicevents.com 773.789.8292

Discover collections to mix, match & make impresions!

Plan for inspiration.

blueprintstudios.com 415.922.9004 © Jess Foto

• • • •

EVENT RENTALS EVENT DÉCOR CUSTOM FABRICATION PRINTING

DESIGNER INTERVIEW

Angel Sanchez: Structural Design The fashion flock may best recognize Angel Sanchez for his streamlined and structured womenswear designs, most especially his unforgettably elegant wedding and evening gowns. But some might be surprised to know the roots behind the Venezuelan-born designer’s influences: he’s actually a trained architect. Clearly, one discipline informed the other, resulting in a distinctly refined vision that often transcends the usual ephemeral nature of fashion and trends. We met with Sanchez in his NYC showroom to discuss his transition from blueprints to dress patterns, and how he’s even managed to fuse the worlds. INTERVIEW CONTINUED ON PAGE 80

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By Laura Neilson Photos by Dusdin Condren

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FEATURES

1

4

T

ell us about your first foray in design—as an architect, not a fashion designer. Where did you study?

The Simón Bolívar University in Caracas. They had an architecture program—full career, six years. And I worked for a year for a big firm in Caracas.

What made you cross over into fashion?

I played with fabrics since I was a little kid, and I was very familiar with the whole process of making a dress, but I never thought it was a career for me. But then I realized being an architect gave me so many three-dimensional ideas. Being an architect, all this background helped me to face fashion in a very useful way. And I could see all my ideas materialize faster than waiting for a building. The design process to make a building—to build a building is slow, and I’m impatient. I cannot wait that long!

Did you have any formal training when you decided to transition?

I learned from my mom, from my work, and practice. But I never went to fashion school. In that moment, fashion school in Venezuela didn’t exist. My mom was my best school—and I learned a lot from my clients. Practice. Working.

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Were there any early designers who inspired you? Did it help your self-education?

Definitely [Cristóbal] Balenciaga. He really dedicated his life to his career and his clients. Also the way he constructed his dresses: his patterns, how he cut on the bias, the undergarment… all this couture influence was very, very inspiring. And then I started to see a little of the light part of fashion—the beauty of a Valentino dress, the feeling and the romance. I thought it was beautiful, and I think it influenced a lot of my work in the way he understood a woman.

did beautiful wedding dresses in the couture point of view.

That’s where you show all your skills, not only as a designer, but also as a couturier: the quality of your sewing, the quality of your beading… the ability to make a dress at that level.

Those years made me understand the meaning of a wedding dress. I really got connected with my clients in terms of the dream they have, and the expectations they have of me. It’s a unique experience.

What is it you love so much about bridal?

Bridal’s so natural. The first 12 years of my 25 years, I did a lot of custom-made bridal where you have to understand a client, her style, the idea that the client has in her mind, and to try and please her. I

And now, designing ready-to-wear?

Designing collections for ready-to-wear bridal—it’s a different approach. It’s not as personal, but still, I sit down, and I design a bridal collection in three or four days.

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Three or four days? That’s astounding.

Do you already have imaginary clients in mind when you’re designing, then?

Yes. I try to get into all these different experiences from my couturier career and put them in a collection: “This is the romantic, this is the traditional, this is the more avant-garde, this is the more elegant.” And I really enjoy it so much because I don’t have to worry about trends. I don’t have to worry about color trends. It’s always white. Bridal is about timelessness. It’s about lines, about lightness, about something more refined or romantic.

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ANGEL SANCHEZ FALL/WINTER PREVIEW White tulle cap sleeve ball gown with ruffled skirt and geometric acetate detail

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Strapless white triplex gazar gown with hand embroidered sequin detail

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White triplex gazar gown with bustle and feather appliqué detail

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Light blue v-neck tulle and silk ball gown with silver beading detail

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Off white strapless embossed organza gown with side panel of floral appliqué

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Off-white lace strapless ball gown with geometric acetate detail

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There’s a similarity to architecture in the idea of that timelessness. A wedding dress reflects a moment, but it’s meant to stand the test of time.

Yes. The meaning of a wedding dress in the life of a woman is so important. And always, when I meet clients after 15 or 20 years, she remembers me as an important part of her life because I designed her wedding dress.

You’re also currently working on some interior design projects with your partner, Chris Coleman. How is that going?

Runway photos by Dan Lecca

We’re doing three or four projects together.

I’m really enjoying it. It’s my second chance to express myself. Being an architect, you can be a fashion designer, an interior designer, a graphic designer, because you have that skill set.

Have you designed your stores?

I designed my showroom, and I designed my store in Caracas. But my dream now is to open my store in the United States and design it. I have some ideas. I have some sketches. a

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photography: Chantal Andrea chantalandrea.com event & floral design: McKenzie Powell Floral & Event Design mckenziepowell.com wedding gown design & styling: Rebecca Cairelli rebeccacairelli.com hair & makeup: Jenny Bowker Make Up jennybowkermakeup.com jewelry: History and Industry by Irene Wood historyandindustry.bigcartel.com cake: New Renaissance Cakes newrenaissancecakes.com table: Whitcomb & Company’s Industrial Trestle Dining Table whitcombandcompany.com video: Luuvu Hoang by.luuvu.com models: Tyson Strotz and Katharine Wimett from Seattle Models Guild

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ROOFTOP REVELRY Pop Champagne and celebrate the day high above the city

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LOCATIONS & DESTINATIONS bride Dress: Rebecca Cairelli “Florence” $2,400 Earrings: Mckenzie's Earrings Shoes: Jessica Simpson groom Suit: CK Shirt: Kenneth Cole Bow Tie: H&M Shoes: Aldo

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bride Dress: Rebecca Cairelli “Anisa” $3,900 Necklace: History & Industry “The Beach” $180 Shoes: model's own groom Suit: CK Shirt: Kenneth Cole Tie: Levi Shoes: Hell For Leather

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Left:

Right:

bride Dress: Rebecca Cairelli “Sabelle” $1,500 Head Piece: Mckenzie Powell Shoes: Jessica Simpson

bride Dress: Rebecca Cairelli “Bianca” $1,450 Necklace: History & Industry “Elsa” $160 Shoes: Nine West

groom Suit: CK Shirt: Kenneth Cole Bow Tie: H&M Shoes: Aldo

groom Suite: CK Shirt: Kenneth Cole Tie: Levi Shoes: Hell For Leather

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Resource Guide BEAUTY & HEALTH

Calihan Catering emphasizes creative gourmet cuisine, impeccable service, and innovative event concepts that set the mood and spirit for memorable events. For more than 25 years, our clients have come to rely on our gourmet culinary expertise for intimate dinners, personalized weddings, corporate events, social fundraisers, and contractual dining.

Canard Inc. canardinc.com New York, NY 212.947.2480

Make Up by Aga makeupbyaga.com Chicago, IL 773.501.6605 My signature is a timeless beauty. I specialize in airbrush makeup application and false lashes.

CAKES & SWEETS Filigree Cakes filigreecakes.com Irvine, CA 888.335.2253 Ron Ben-Israel Cakes weddingcakes.com New York, NY 212.625.3369

CATERERS

Entertaining Company entertainingcompany.com Chicago, IL 312.829.2800 Epicure Catering & Cherry Basket Farm caterleelanau.com Omena, MI 231.360.0042 Phil Stefani’s Signature Events stefanirestaurants.com Chicago, IL 312.226.7611

CONSULTANTS & EVENT PLANNERS Mango Muse Events mangomuseevents.com Los Altos, CA 800.373.1736 A Day In May Event Planning adayinmayevents.com Traverse City, MI 231.421.1215 Alchemy Fine Events & Invitations alchemyfineevents.com Cardiff by the Sea, CA 760.688.6011 Ashton Events ashtonevents.com Lakeland, FL 863.370.9522

Calihan Catering calihancatering.com Chicago, IL 312.587.3553 94

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Atelier Joya Event Design & Florals atelierjoya.com San Francisco, CA 415.846.1858

Bliss Weddings and Events blissweddingsandevents.com Chicago, IL 312.927.6090 Courtney Nye Design courtneynye.com Portland, OR 949.981.6230 David Ellis Events davidellisevents.com New York, NY 212.513.7160 Details Details aboutdetailsdetails.com Irvine, CA 949.600.8881 Flourish Event Design flourisheventdesign.com Royal Oak, MI 248.594.3213 Heydey Event Lab hedayeventlab.com Grand Rapids, MI 616.206.6101 Kraft Event Management kraftevents.com New York, NY 908.221.0448 La Belle Fleur Events labellefleurevents.com Chicago, IL 618.660.6963 La Vie En Rose Events lvrevents.com New York, NY 347.994.8373 Make My Day Event Planning makemydayevents.net Rehoboth Beach, DE 302.270.7496

Michelle Durpetti Events durpettievents.com Chicago, IL 312.988.9900 Michelle Durpetti Events is an event management and production firm founded on the principle that event planners must be good sources of creative ideas combined with practical

Resource Guide

From the proposal to the “I do’s,” we do it all. Stress free, pleasant, professional planning and artistry in floral design and event decorating.

HONEYMOON & DESTINATIONS Ellerman House ellerman.co.za Cape Town, South Africa +27.2.430.3200 experience, flexibility, and know-how to manage an event from beginning to end. We execute large, complex projects as well as intimate events, and we offer both full and partial events services.

MWD Lifestyles marcwilsondesign.com Long Island City, NY 212.749.2266 Neal Matticks Design nealmatticks.com New York, NY 212.874.8930 Southern Protocol southernprotocol.com Charleston, SC 843.763.7780

Sweetchic Events sweetchicevents.com Chicago, IL 773.789.8292 Sweetgrass Social Event & Design sweetgrasssocial.com Charleston, SC 843.230.4188 Very Merry Events verymerryevents.com Alameda, CA 925.236.1972

Sugar Chic Designs sugarchicdesigns.com Lake Forest, IL 773.383.1472 Sugar Chic Designs crafts and executes exquisite event settings and motifs that are accented with our signature Sweet and Savory Celebration Tables, featuring decadent desserts, one-of-a-kind confections, and savory treats that tell an enchanting story of celebration spun from sugar and sophistication. Crafting extraordinary and original event concepts—we are event stylists at heart and love to create and execute unique event themes and design.

FLORISTS Amy Kate Designs amykatedesigns.com Elk Rapids, MI 1.800.417.0042 (Toll Free) 231.883.6179 (Cell)

Hotel 1000 hotel1000seattle.com Seattle, WA 206.452.8171 Hotel Vitale jdvhotels.com/hotels/sanfrancisco/vitale San Francisco, CA 415.278.3711

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT Total Entertainment totalentertainment.com Carlstadt, NJ 212.684.0060

PAPER GOODS

Cornucopia Flowers cornucopiaflowers.com New York, NY 212.594.8944 Ooh! Events oohevents.com Charleston, SC 843.881.7576

Elizabeth Grace elizabethgrace.com Chicago, IL 773.477.9830

DECOR & DESIGN Blueprint Studios blueprintstudios.com San Francisco, CA 415.922.9004

With a strong sense of style and a talent for detail, Elizabeth Grace is dedicated to creating beautiful stationery for the discerning bride—the perfect wedding invitation is our specialty! As Chicago’s premier paperie and custom design studio, we offer exclusive styles, high-end stationery, and unique gifts.

Event Creative eventcreative.com Chicago, IL 312.327.0111 Signature Flowers & Events signatureflowersandevents.com Quincy, WA 509.398.1900

Scotti Cline Designs scotticlinedesigns.com Charleston, SC 843.608.1079

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Resource Guide

memories AND the photos. Anyone who has this philosophy will end up with amazing images.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rob Duren Productions robduren.com Mount Pleasant, SC 843.532.8403

Carasco Photography carascophoto.com Chicago, IL 773.383.4112 Over the past eight years, Carasco Photography has become one of the most sought-after wedding photography companies for their editorial style and fashion-forward imagery. This husband and wife duo will convey a poetic visual narrative of your wedding day.

Based in Sun Valley, Idaho, Kirsten travels to capture images her clients will love for life.

As an editorial and wedding photographer, her images have been published internationally in publications including The New York Times and Martha Stewart Real Weddings.

Markit Photography markitphotography.com Chicago, IL 574.527.0494

Fandl Photography fandlphotoraphy.com Chicago, IL 773.865.3400

Shutter Sam Photography shuttersam.com Muskegon, MI 231.288.0524 Modern. Mod. Sassy.

RECEPTION SITES Apogee Events – Tribeca Rooftop tribec.com New York, NY 212.625.8382 Everyone has a story that deserves to be told and a love that is meant to be shared, even celebrated. Markit Photography looks to capture who you are and your story in natural lighting from a unique, fun, and fresh perspective.

Cave B Inn & Spa cavebinn.com Quincy, WA 509.785.2283

Michael Sackett Photography michaelsackett.net Troy, MI 248.561.6873

Ivy Room ivyroomchicago.com Chicago, IL 312.645.7760

Michael Sackett Photography is the perfect match for those who realize when their event or wedding day is over, all you will have left are the

A modern oasis in the heart of River North at Medinah Tree Studios, just two blocks from the Magnificent Mile, and in close proximity to the

Just Love Me Photography + Design justlovemepd.com Schaumburg, IL 708.990.6724 We are a sister team with a creatively artistic approach, appealing to the more modern bride and groom. Sure we could say, “say cheese,” snap a picture, and be done with it. But that’s not us. Our happiness comes from capturing the moments that mean the most and turning them into lasting art.

KiRsten Shultz Photography ksweddings.com Sun Valley, Idaho 208.481.0138

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Resource Guide

Loop, Navy Pier, and Millennium and Grant Parks, the Ivy Room embodies a history of artistic elegance. The ballroom windows offer picturesque views of the courtyard garden, transforming every event into an extraordinary experience.

RENTALS

Knob Hill Inn knobhillinn.com Ketchum, ID 208.726.8010

Special Occasions & Queen Street Linens specialo.com Lancaster, PA 717.299.4642 Impeccable table linens to rent and custom linens to own are sewn and laundered in our Lancaster, PA, studio. Dress your event, hotel ballroom, or personal dining room in elegant tablecloths constructed with matched seams and exceptional quality.

Montage Beverly Hills montagebeverlyhills.com/weddings Beverly Hills, CA 310.860.7891

SPECIAL SERVICES

Choose from a romantic terrace overlooking artfully sculpted gardens, a rooftop with panoramic views, or grand, Mediterraneaninspired ballrooms. Our culinary artists will delight you with creative menus, wine pairings, wedding cakes, and more. We can assist with spa and salon services, and share our who’swho list of floral designers, photographers, and stylists to create a wedding long remembered as a true Beverly Hills masterpiece.

Much like choosing a wedding gown, or the perfect man, you will know the right venue at first sight. George Nickels, director of catering and conference services at the Montage Beverly Hills, not only witnesses countless beautiful marriages throughout the year, but also makes sure wedding meals go off without a hitch, making memorable events for couples and their guests.

“You can build a beautiful building anywhere, but it is the staff that brings it to life,” says Nickels of the Montage’s special touch. Aside from delicious food, the hotel has numerous gorgeous locations that can host all styles of weddings and events. Enjoy dining al fresco? The Montage Terrace overlooking the Beverly Canon Gardens provides the perfect outdoor backdrop. Or if you prefer the tradition of a formal ballroom, then the Marquesa Ballroom is a perfect choice for elegant dinners and dancing. But no matter the spot, Nickels will make sure everything looks and tastes perfect. “Each wedding is an opportunity for me and for the hotel to exceed expectations,” he says. “It keeps me creative and fresh!”

Indie Wed, LLC indiewed.com Chicago, IL info@indiewed.com Indie Wed is THE alternative to the traditional bridal expo. For those in the midst of wedding planning, Indie Wed offers a one-stop-shop for all the best wedding artisans and professionals around the country. It is wedding planning... redefined.

Sidney Frank Importing Company sidneyfrank.com New Rochelle, NY jagerinfo@sidneyfrankco.com

TRANSPORTATION

Brides, Bubbles and Bliss bridesbubblesandbliss.com Chicago, IL/New York, NY 773.383.4112 Inspirational blog for stylish couples to be. Latest trends, haute couture runways, real weddings, and more!

Donna Benedetto Designs donnabenedetto.com Easton, CT 203.556.1705 Field of Flowers fieldofflowersfarm.com Lake Leelanau, MI 231.256.9530

The Trolley Car & Bus Company trolleycar.net Bensenville, IL 630.350.7433 We have been proudly serving wedding parties in the Chicagoland area with the finest fleet of trolley cars and mini-coach buses since 1998. Hosting more than 400 weddings yearly gives us the opportunity to perfect the wedding trolley experience.

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RSVP

Mindy Weiss The wedding planner extraordinaire tells us what her wedding secret weapon is, why you shouldn’t follow the rules, and what gives her butterflies

My day-of-wedding secret weapon is... keeping my cool, keeping it real, and respecting the fact that my clients memories are in my hands.

I would tell a bride not to worry too much about... imperfections on the wedding day. Things rarely go just as planned, so be sure not to sweat the small stuff.

But to pay extra special attention to... taking it all in.

Cherish the time when you have all your loved ones and your spouse’s loved ones in one room. Document the fact that both your loved ones and your new husband's loved ones are all in one room together.

My clients would be most surprised to know that I... the ones that just meet me are very surprised that I’m down to earth and very calm... the ones that know me know I function on very little sleep.

I realized I was destined to plan gorgeous weddings and events... during the time I was planning my first event, I was already thinking of what I could do for the next, and those thoughts have continued for the last 25-ish years!

After finishing a wedding, I relax by... being with my family.

Every Sunday is family time; it’s my favorite day of the week!

The biggest misconception about weddings is that... there are RULES to how to plan a wedding… so not true! You make your own rules and traditions! And consider having a sense of humor to be one of the first rules...

The thing that inspires me most is... Emotionally, seeing the hope in the new married couples’ eyes. It gives me energy knowing they are starting anew and I was there on the first day of their new path. Aesthetically, I really enjoy flea markets!

When planning a client’s wedding, I still get butterflies when.... the bride and groom see each other for the first time! Whether it’s a “first look” before the wedding or when the bride is walking down the aisle, it is always a special moment! a

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Portrait and alter photos by Elizabeth Messina; reception photo by Yvette Roman

An unforgettable day deserves an unparalleled setting.

Begin the next chapter of your love story amid artfully sculpted gardens and elegant ballrooms resonant with the grandeur, romance and beauty synonymous with Beverly Hills.

(310) 860-7891 • B E V E R LY H I L L S

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m o n ta g e b e v e r ly h i l l s . c o m / w e d d i n g s

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312.645.7760 IVYROOMCHICAGO.COM