S T. L O U I S ’
SPRING & SUMMER 2016
6
LOVE
HOW TO PLAN YOUR
BIG DAY
Floral
INSPIRATION
what's in season for your celebration LOVE YOUR
GOWN MATCH THE BEST STYLE FOR YOUR BODY
STORIES
Sweet!
CREATIVE CAKES
to wow guests
How to include
‘MAN’S BEST FRIEND’ in your ceremony
Amazing
DRESSES
UNIQUE LOOKS, FABULOUS FINDS
See yours inside!
PREPARE FOR THE BIG DAY
Before asking them to wait on you hand and foot ...
SCHEDULE A BRIDAL PARTY FOR 5 OR MORE AND THE BRIDE & GROOM RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY SPA SERVICE skincare | nailcare | massage | body treatment | waxing
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*
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CLAYTON 7620 Forsyth Blvd. | 314.746.1501
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Wedding and Event Specialists
Your Personal Florist Since 1883 314.633.8780 wkf.com/weddings
Personalized service with attention to every detail.
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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
• Elegant reception rooms with seating for 50 to 500 • Picturesque outdoor waterfall ceremony site • Mouth-watering menus, unique to the Falls
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7
636.733.9100 | www.TheWildwoodHotel.com
We think a Groom’s Fashion Try-On™ is only fitting. Schedule a Free groom's Try on to find the ideal tuxedo fit, style and color to match your wedding party. you will feel confident that your wedding suits or tuxedos will look and feel perfect.
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The wedding of your dreams is waiting for you at the St. Charles Convention Center. Take advantage of our elegant Grand Ballroom with seating for up to 1,000, our exquisite in-house catering, a variety of wedding packages to ďŹ t your budget, and the attached 296 all-suite Embassy Suites Hotel.
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Fall in love all over again. Visit davidsbridal.com or call 877.923.2743 for an appointment.
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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
SAY I D TO THE PERFECT wedding.
CINDY LEE PHOTOGRAPHY
CES & JUDY’S CATERING at LE CHATEAU | 10405 CLAYTON ROAD | ST LOUIS, MO 63131 WWW.CESANDJUDYS.COM | 314-991-6700
OU R M AG A Z I N E WELCOME
Congratulations You’re engaged. You have found your soul mate and life is full of promise. You are moving forward to a day when you translate that love into a lifetime together. Wedding planning should be only a blip on the radar screen of these happy times. St. Louis’ Best Bridal helps avoid glitches and apprehension in arranging the day of your dreams. This reliable resource helps simplify planning and grow the event on a one-stop shopping tour that matches personal possibilities. St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine, St. Louis’ Best Bridal Planner, St. Louis’ Best Bridal website ‒ which includes the online MARKETPLACE ‒ and St. Louis’ Best Bridal celebrations provide sources for you to create the wedding that symbolizes
YOUR LOVE STORY
your unique relationship. You will find: ✤ ✤ ✤
Calling all bridal couples who want to share their love story! St. Louis’ Best Bridal wants to know your unique story and the wedding details you carefully crafted. You, the bride and groom, may be featured in the St. Louis’ Best Bridal magazine or website. Contact Janice at jdenham@yourjournal.com.
✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤
A timeline of what to do and when to do it Helpful budget guidelines Ideas for announcing the wedding, save-the-dates, invitations and ways to say “thank you” Clues for finding your theme Clothing options for the bride, groom, mothers, others Rules and regulations to obtain a legal marriage license Flower choices, familiar and new ideas for bouquets Tempting food and drink suggestions Magnificent wedding cakes and sweets Reception locations and extra fun Musical leads Guidelines for all-important photographs Honeymoon tips Making lists is the easy part. Completing tasks requires a
strong, supportive hand. The wise source is St. Louis’ Best Bridal and its “dream team” of top-notch clothiers, caterers, bakers, jewelers, florists, printers and event locations in the St. Louis metro area. Kind and professional vendors clear away doubt. St. Louis’ Best Bridal holds it all! Love Stories, big and small from near and far, cater to requests for reflection and inspire your own preparation. These tributes to wedded love remind
VO LU M E 1 3 - N U M B E R 1 SPRING & SUMMER 2016 PUBLISHER Mary Ann Wagner EDITORIAL Editorial Coordinator/Writer Janice Denham DESIGN Art Director Robert Meyer ADVERTISING Account Executives Laura Dacus Vanessa Ortmann Christopher Ortwerth Sales Assistant Krista Santangelo EDITORIAL ASSISTANCE (314) 475-1204 ADVERTISING INQUIRIES (314) 475-1201 CONTACT US St. Louis’ Best Bridal 900 N. Tucker Blvd., 3rd Floor St. Louis, MO 63101 www.stlouisbestbridal.com BRIDAL MARKETPLACE Find local wedding professionals www.stlouisbestbridal.com
you that the next step can be as personal, authentic and memorable as you wish it to be. Announcing your engagement, and later your wedding, through the St. Louis’ Best Bridal website stlouisbestbridal.com shares the big news online. Our magazine is available at local
PRINTING AND MANUFACTURING Kingery Printing Company www.kingeryprinting.com
newsstands and retailers, but lucky couples who announce their engagement with us or come to one of our celebrations receive one delivered directly into their hands. With always more to come, the 2016 show schedule starts here. All you need to add is love.
STAY CONNECTED
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM WATCH EMAILS, WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA FOR UPDATES ABOUT
Bridal Shows and Events, Bride’s and Groom’s Cake Dives, Contests and more fun and creative ideas. Like Us: FACEBOOK.COM/STLOUISBESTBRIDAL Follow Us: TWITTER.COM/STLBESTBRIDAL Pin with Us: PINTEREST.COM/STLBESTBRIDAL
St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine is a semi-annual publication available at fine retailers, advertiser locations and at all St. Louis’ Best Bridal shows and events. All contents herein are protected by copyright laws (2004-2016) by St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of the contents, without prior written permission of the publisher, is strictly prohibited. The magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a selfaddressed, stamped envelope. Statements and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect or represent those of this publication, its editor or its staff. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and integrity of the information contained in this publication, St. Louis’ Best Bridal disclaims all responsibility for omissions and printer’s errors. A Publication of Suburban Journals of Greater St. Louis, LLC
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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
It’s what you imagined shopping for your wedding dress would be
108 Chesterfield Towne Center Chesterfield, MO 63005 636-778-3433 miagracebridal.com
T H E M AG A Z I N E ON THE COVER
Rebecca ✤ COVER MODEL REBECCA SHEEHAN
From their first meeting, Rebecca Roberts and John Sheehan wanted to spend time together. See page 43.
✤ GOWN WEDDING GALLERY BRIDAL SALON
The dramatic gown, a private Harmony line exclusive design of Wedding Gallery Bridal Salon, flows with two layers, tulle and French Alencon lace, in ivory over a champagne-shaded lining. The lace itself, resplendent with Swarovski crystals, forms straps which extend to edge the deep back and scatter as floral applique on the sweetheart bodice and trumpet skirt. Fabric-covered buttons follow the zipper closure to the skirt with its raw-cut edge skimming a cathedral train. Earrings designed by Erin Cole.
✤ HAIR & MAKEUP BELLEZA BRIDAL AND HAIR SALON
Natural elegance with a touch of Rapunzel fantasy creates Rebecca’s romantic look. A neutral base with a touch of rose is a natural for spring. Light rose-gold with darker pink shadow and additional lashes enhance her warm-brown eyes. A single finger wave attractively sweeps her long hair to one side and extensions add length for pin curls that move as an attractive display whether they fall forward or cascade down her open back. Hair and makeup by Krysta Madden, assisted by Ashley Glowczwski.
S T. L O U I S ’
SPRING & S UMMeR 201 6
6
✤ BOUQUET WALTER KNOLL FLORIST
A bride’s bouquet displays rich romance with Quick Sand cream and blush-colored roses, white hydrangeas, anemone with striking black centers, silver-gray brunia balls, lavender scabiosa, Queen Anne’s lace, velvety dusty miller and green succulents.
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
Sweet!
CREATIVE CAK
ES
to wow guests
InSPIRATIOn
what's in season your celebration for
How to include
‘MAn’S BEST fRIEnD’
LOVE YOUR
GOWN MATCH THE
in your ceremony
Amazing
dresses
UnIQUE LOOKS,
TROTTER PHOTO
20
STORIES
Floral
BEST STYLE FOR YOUR BODY
✤ PHOTOS
LOVE
HOW TO PLAN YOUR
BIG DAY
fABULOUS fIn
DS
See yours inside
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
!
f r om
charming country
to l a k e s i de e l e ga nc e
Unique setting for destination weddings less than an hour from St. Louis indoor and outdoor ceremony/reception sites including an exquisite lakeside lodge, a new rustic barnyard patio and more
www.innsbrook-resort.com/weddings
OU R M AG A Z I N E INSIDE
COVER STORIES
LOVE STORIES
26 | 6 couples together
43 | CONNECTED: Rebecca & John
58 | Match gown to personal shape
61 | NORMALCY: Lauren & Nathan
65 | Amazing dress designs
109 | REUNITED: Monica & Jim
70 | Pets of honor
131 | CELEBRATE: Lindsey & Ryan
79 | Floral inspiration
137 | LIFE-CHANGING: Joy & David
121 | Sweet!
149 | OLD-FASHIONED: Leah & Sky
FEATURES
SPREAD THE NEWS
53 | Rehearsal raises curtain on fun
46 | Ready, set, save-the-date!
72 | Fashion for the future
49 | ‘Join us’ messages theme
112 | Venue value
160 | Oh, thank you!
Locals launch loving lives in tandem. Accentuate the positive, adapt silhouette as bride with individuality. Unique look flows top-to-toe with luxurious texture. Pooch ring bearer ruff!-les no feathers. Sweet and sunny, bright and bold burst into garden glory. Be a cut-up for slice of indulgent cake.
First gathering highlights meet-and-greet, initiates celebration. Brides-to-be want comfort sewn into splendor, texture and flow. Site matched to event sets wedding scene.
115 | Food fare
Savor steak to chicken waffles, shrimp to cookies ‘n’ milk.
127 | A toast to hospitality
Peek into home-for-two with wishes for blended future.
134 | Hair loop-de-loops
Both guys and gals prepare early to take control of shining image.
156 | Cake dives
Equal opportunity rewards newlyweds-to-be.
ESSENTIALS
Sweethearts set up table ringside to appreciate family, friends in St. Louis. Community rallies to support long-awaited wedding joy. Couple retrieves their lovin’ feeling to surge into future together. All-things family initiates weekend of Florida wedding fun. Hard-earned experience keeps caring love alive after shooting. Long-distance intentions spur quick plan for Mission Wedding Vows.
Joy bursts with first announcement of couple’s plan. Newlyweds-to-be put personality into print for future guests to see. Burst with gratitude before and after the wedding.
PARTY PLANS 56 | Pick ‘who’s who’ list with care
Relatives and BFFs should stand alongside forever.
92 | Reception directory
Find top-10 likely fits among St. Louis’ Best Bridal favorites.
140 | Contract tunes up music
Orchestrate roles for listening or dancing, MC, DJ or live music.
142 | Love: ‘Lucky’ and ‘Timeless’
You know “You Got a Good Thing” on the “Best Day of My Life.”
28 | Celebrate planning with Best Bridal
144 | Photos tips number 10
28 | A dozen tips for attending bridal show
152 | 8 stops on party path
31 | Time line paces steps
158 | 21 smart honeymoon tips
Party atmosphere invites creative ideas and fun to join your wedding. Plan to be comfy, have fun, ease planning path.
Long-range calendar steers straight through planning.
33 | The day of a lifetime!
Schedule fits cherished moments alongside rituals.
34 | Money matters
Balanced expenses add up to 100 percent of budget.
36 | Think like money-spending couple
Early funding talk initiates blended money patterns for the future.
38 | Get organized
5 early priorities pinpoint who pays for what.
40 | Sign on the dotted line
License: one and only item you MUST have to be married.
Find photographer focused on that lovin’ look. Celebrate from first blush through farewell for post-wedding bliss. Where to go, what to take draws couple into just-for-2 mode.
FOOD, FINERY, FLOWERS 75 | Love looks ...
... and rests confidently in images of beauty.
89 | Say it with flowers
Colors range by season and style, tone and texture.
90 | Know bridal terms
Informed couple gains confidence in finding blossoms, decorations.
91 | How to hire a florist
Event blossoms when plans unfold sweetly.
145 | Guys set style, too
Spotlight shines on well-dressed ‘men’ of all ages.
22
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Visit Brides by Demetrios to experience expert service and see our newest collections for the bride-to-be and bridal party.
Brides by Demetrios # 19 The Boulevard Saint Louis Richmond Heights, MO 63117 Appointments are highly recommended. To schedule your personal consultation please call 314-721-7400. Walk-ins are welcome based on availability.
DemetriosBride.com
Andre’s West
Four
Andre’s South • 314.894.2622 Andre’s West • 314.691.5650 Andre’s @ Sunset Hills Golf Course & Banquet Center • 314.606.0090 Andre’s @ Fox Run Golf Club • 636.253.0867
24
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
ON T H E C OV E R OUR LOVE STORIES
61
Together (Clockwise, from top left)
Lauren responded with a loving nod
when Nathan asked if she was ready to walk from the Jewel Box toward their commitment with a victory sign at their plannedwith-them wedding. Having met as middle-schoolers, their dating spanned her many days of illness and hospitalization.
Monica
and Jim fanned the fires of love kindled 15 years earlier and quickly evolved toward a unique wedding with grown-up attitudes and appreciation for what they didn’t know they were missing.
Just
when Joy and David’s new adventure blossomed around jobs, families and discussing marriage to each other, life fired off a surprise. David was shot in the leg.
Mix a TV news reporter and radio
executive in a bag, shake well and soon you have Rebecca and John intrigued with each other on-scene at a National League Division Series game. Fredbird, ever the baseball matchmaker, added fun to the rehearsal.
Lindsey and Ryan made a wedding wish come
true after eight years of knowing each other. Family surrounded them at their Florida wedding, stayed on through the weekend and offered to return to celebrate their first anniversary, too. Leah and Sky turned one of their few date nights into a wedding. They met in church as teens but went separate ways for five years. A quick re-introduction through social media in January led to an engagement in April. Sky re-proposed with a planned script just before their August wedding, then Leah joined her dashng military man in Italy.
26
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
149
109
137
131
43
ESSENTIALS BRIDAL SHOWS & EVENTS
A GUIDE TO ENJOY A BRIDAL SHOW TIPS BY THE DOZEN
A bridal show boasts options galore! Rows of booths are staffed by wedding experts who want to help create a wedding that matches your personality, your style, your vision and your means. Where to start? A little planning helps spark amazing fun to solve the bridal puzzle with results that fit together.
1
PRE-REGISTER FOR QUICKER CHECK-IN. The bride brings along a form from www.stlouisbestbridal.com that she has downloaded, printed and filled out, then walks in free. Providing the wedding date and contact info helps keep the bride and groom in touch for post-show offers and ideas. General admission is $5 (cash only).
2
FOCUS ON SERVICES YOU NEED. If that engagement of yours is sparkling new with a far-off date, concentrate on total style. Otherwise, find specific items to satisfy what you need. Fill your head with ideas, your bag with information. Prizes at St. Louis’ Best Bridal shows include a free trip to a faraway resort. Voila! A romantic honeymoon.
3
WEAR COMFY SHOES. Bring at least one relative or friend who will help and encourage rather than distract you. Perhaps the groom-to-be will make this good partner. Kids are welcome, but probably will not be entertained.
4
HAVE QUESTIONS READY FOR THE EXPERTS. Leave time for fun. Allow time to sample it all – food to fashion, photos to gowns.
28
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
EVERYTHING YOU NEED ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL OPENS DOOR TO CELEBRATIONS, MAGAZINES, IDEAS, FUN FOR CREATING A WEDDING THAT MATCHES YOU!
w
ith the helping hand of St. Louis’ Best Bridal, your unique celebra-
celebrating a wedding-to-be. The spirit is contagious!
tion comes together. Preparing for it should
One soon-to-be bride, walking into
not be a struggle. Fit together all the pieces
a show with her future husband, wore an
to turn ideas and
engagement ring
details into the wed-
he put on her hand
ding of your dreams. Those who attend St. Louis’ Best Bridal celebrations have said that anyone planning a wedding in the St. Louis metro area cannot afford to pass up these great opportunities, whether the bridal list is getting under way or needs only a few spaces filled.
SHOW SCHEDULE Visit us online at stlouisbestbridal.com for details and special offers for shows. Here are soon-to-come events.
Sunday, February 28
that very morning. A model in another Celebration wore an engagement ring of her own after the man of her dreams
ST. LOUIS’ BEST OF THE BEST CELEBRATION Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch
disarmed her with
Sunday, July 17
of attendees who
BRIDAL SHOW & CAKE DIVE Orlando’s Event Center Maryland Heights
a loving speech on the runway in front cheered when she agreed to say “I do” and share their Love Story forever.
With a different show every time, myriad local resources await
Not only does each engaged woman
both bride and groom. Even returnees find
don her own sparkling smile with ideas
those one or two special elements evading
galore, but she also carries away FREE
them. Stay alert for items that make your
resources to help focus on what is impor-
own wedding fun and personal, as well as
tant to the couple intent on becoming
surprises that seem to sprout along with
newlyweds.
5
is complimentary at shows and when a
BE UP-FRONT ABOUT YOUR BUDGET. Providers want to meet your
couple signs up at www.stlouisbestbridal.
needs. This allows both sides to draw up
com. Sized to carry on bridal adventures, it
and track what potentially will work.
A handy St. Louis’ Best Bridal Planner
provides useful overviews of typical wedding
6
WRITE DOWN IDEAS AND TAKE PICTURES. Your head spins
basics, tips and lists. In your hands is another impressive source: St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine.
with supportive details, so revisit them
Future brides, no matter their planning
later after you have had time to sift
stage, find inspiration on its pages and keep
through alternatives.
it convenient to reference.
7
Resources in it include gowns, men’s limousines, DJs, florists and pampering
Real love stories inspire, detailed ideas
planners for the whole event or just the day.
update trends, timetables suggest goals and
Compact and detailed guides help create a
legal overviews detail tasks – wherever you
perfect wedding from beginning to end. It
live or say “I do.” Confidence follows with
also is available on local magazine racks.
YOUR GOAL: FIND SPECIALISTS.
Seek out those whose ideas match yours.
formal wear, cakes, hairstylists, musicians,
Make appointments or leave call-back information to set up one-on-one dates later.
8
PRINT STICKERS. Listing your name,
guidance for budgets, invitations, gifts, jew-
address, phone and email saves time and effort.
elry, food, photographer and details big and
Pack them in your purse the night before the
small. Listings suggest choices for rehearsal
show to have them ready.
fun, wedding, reception and honeymoon. Information about bridal shows and
9
TAKE A BREAK. Catch your breath
planning updates arrive weekly from St.
with that helpful cheerleader. Inhale at the
Louis’ Best Bridal to personalize ideas with
runway show spotlighting fashions for all
new twists for your extra-special occasion.
ages. If you see something you like, be ready
The fun this year includes shows, online
to return to the provider's booth for possible
competitions, individual Cake Dives for
follow-up. Special show-day offers may follow.
brides and grooms and surprise events. Brides receive free bridal show tickets while they are available at Savvi Formalwear locations. For the person coming straight to the show, a cash fee of $5 is payable at the door.
10
PRIZE REQUIREMENTS. If
attendance prizes are promoted, find out when they will be awarded and if you must be present to win.
11
PLAN A RETURN ENGAGEMENT.
As your wedding requirement list becomes shorter, feel free to return to another show to fill still-to-do openings. Each St. Louis' Best Bridal Show is unique with varied vendors.
12
SMILE! CELEBRATE! This will be
the finest occasion of your lifetime and you are choosing reliable ways to make it happen according to your very own design.
SPRING & SUMMER 2016
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
29
YOUR DREAM WEDDING - W I T HI N RE AC H -
1 0 7 0 9 WAT S O N R O A D - S U N S E T H I L L S - M I S S O U R I
314-821-6600 - HIROUTE66.COM
ESSENTIALS SET TIMETABLE
Time line
Checklist
SKIP THE FRENZY. CHART ORDERLY COURSE. You’ve found the love of your life and the two of you are getting married! Now what? Your wedding may be one of the most complex events you, your spouse-to-be and your families
forward. Rather than cause a frenzy, anticipation can even be pleasant. This timeline and checklist help organize chaotic details into the happiest celebration of your lives.
ever orchestrate. A solid plan moves the process 9-12 MONTHS BEFORE Select a date and time for your wedding Arrange for parents to get together, perhaps at an engagement party or informally over dinner Interview wedding planners Discuss budget with everyone contributing financially; establish priorities, including honeymoon
PAGE
93
Secure travel documentation; renew or get passports
Shop for and order bridal gown PAGE and accessories
Complete registry
Select bridesmaids’ dresses
2-4 MONTHS BEFORE
127
Consider items for registry
Finish addressing invitations
Arrange wedding cake tastings, then order
Meet with caterer to discuss plans for food at the reception
Research honeymoon spots and select travel agent
Complete honeymoon plans
Close in on final guest list
If not already noted on calendar, fill in time for securing marriage license Set time for any bridal photography beyond the wedding day
Narrow down ceremony and reception sites and book them (some locations need up to 18 months or only open reservations 12 months in advance)
Mail save-the-date cards, especially for destination or holiday wedding Make master to-do list, keeping copies only with those who need to know
Select and order wedding rings
Choose members of the wedding party Begin to compile guest list
40
Reserve party rental equipment (tables, chairs, tents, lighting)
Select your officiant and visit with him or her to discuss wedding preparation and procedures
Select a catering service, if not provided by the reception site
PAGE
Hint: Book early to be first in line.
Visit www.stlouisbetbridal.com to announce engagement online and in your local St. Louis Post-Dispatch and Suburban Journals Research legal requirements for marriage license in location where you will wed and add immediately to personal calendars 6-9 MONTHS BEFORE Book photographer and videographer Book ceremony musicians and reception band or DJ Select florist
Choose ceremony musicians and music
Make appointments with hairstylist/ makeup consultant for rehearsal dinner and wedding day Select gifts for attendants Choose favors and guest book
4-6 MONTHS BEFORE
Complete cake order, if necessary
Attend pre-wedding counseling, if required
Book room for your wedding night
Order wedding invitations, thankyou notes and personal stationery (earlier is better)
4-8 WEEKS BEFORE
Reserve location for rehearsal dinner
Have final fitting of wedding gown
Arrange accommodations for out-of-town guests Select and order formal wear for men; schedule fittings Reserve wedding-day transportation, including to the church, from church to the reception and from reception to where the two of you will spend your wedding night Meet with travel agent to plan honeymoon and make reservations
FIND WEDDING PROFESSIONALS ONLINE
Pick up wedding rings and arrange for engraving Make initial alteration appointment Have run-through of bridal hair (with headpiece, if using one) and makeup; experiment now, not later Check that bridesmaids have arranged fittings for their gowns, groomsmen for tuxedos and shoes Plan menus for rehearsal dinner Select gifts for parents, attendants and each other
StLouisBestBridal.com Bridal Marketplace SPRING & SUMMER 2016
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
31
Draw up seating plan for ceremony and reception
Review guest list and provide caterer with final count
Confirm honeymoon details and finish packing
Submit song lists to ceremony musician and reception band or DJ
Finalize seating arrangements
Double-check details with all wedding vendors
Finalize plans with every wedding vendor, including the photographer
Provide wedding party with rehearsal and wedding-day schedules
Groom: Have hair trimmed
Mail invitations six weeks before wedding, earlier if destination wedding or if many need to travel; design, test map for out-of-towners
Arrange gift transport from reception
Attend any remaining bachelor/ bachelorette party (hold earlier, if possible)
Decide on insurance policies and name-change documents Write and order programs for ceremony Attend bridal shower(s)
Finish place cards for reception
Bride has last pre-wedding haircut and color Make sure names on photo IDs and/or passports match honeymoon plane tickets/reservations Start packing for honeymoon, listing suitcase contents as you add items
Everyone: Break in shoes
1-2 DAYS BEFORE Get massage, manicure and pedicure; purchase extra nail polish in shade you will need for possible touch-up
Gather items for emergency kit
Final gown alteration appointment; bring along maid of honor to learn how to bustle it
Attend rehearsal and review all details with participants
ONE WEEK BEFORE
Prepare wedding announcement for local newspapers; add photo later
Delegate wedding-day responsibilities to reliable individuals
Enjoy rehearsal dinner with family and friends; present wedding party and parents with thank-you gifts
Write vows, if desired; write toasts for rehearsal dinner and wedding
Finalize rehearsal and rehearsal dinner; confirm attendance numbers
2-4 WEEKS BEFORE
Send out all final payments possible
Place fees due on wedding day in envelopes Get good night’s sleep
Making Special Moments Into Lasting Memories
Karen Raidy Portraits On Site Live Wedding Painter
karenraidy@yahoo.com • 512.635.7521 • www.karenraidyportraits.vpweb.com
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The Big Day Eat a healthy breakfast, drink lots of water to avoid dehydration in excitement
Allow extra time for the unexpected; share a written schedule
Try to take at least a little walk, play music or meditate to reduce stress
Allow 50 percent more time than needed to travel between destinations
Double-check that you have all items needed, with backups just in case
Take advantage of dry snacks and bottled water in dressing area
Give groom’s wedding band to maid of honor and bride’s ring to best man
Greet guests by name, be gracious and grateful
Write down any last-minute contingency plans that occur to you Have hair and makeup done according to earlier plan
Smile, remain calm and do not allow anything that may go differently than planned ruin your joy
Allow extra time to get dressed
Cherish each moment of this special day with your new life partner and those who gather to celebrate with you
Make certain the best man and maid of honor sign the marriage license
Say goodbye to parents and grandparents if you leave early
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ESSENTIALS BUILD A BUDGET
R ECEPTION
50%
PHOTOGR APHY
11-15%
Site fee, valet parking, catering costs, bar expenses (bartender & beverages), wedding cake, groom’s cake, cake cutter, cake topper, napkins, favors, etc.
Engagement, videography, photo packages
MONEY MATTERS
FLOW ERS
FUNDS MANAGEMENT LEVELS EYE TARGETED TO SEE TOTAL EVENT.
W EDDING ATTIR E
7-10%
Wedding gown/headpiece/ veil/lingerie, hair and makeup, tuxedo, jewelry, shoes, accessories
First, you must decide a budget. All wedding plans hinge on what you plan to spend. Whatever the total, you must resolve together what you want and what you can afford to create those wedding details you want. These decisions lay a creative base for lifetime collaboration. The annual average amount spent on a St. Louis metro wedding (not including honeymoon) in 2014, according to The Wedding Report, was close to $25,000 and rising. No matter who provides statistics, brides and grooms want to celebrate this occasion with family and friends. Ranges provide a starting point to help figure what your wedding might include. To accommodate expenses ranging toward the high end of a percentage, all categories together must add up to 100 percent.
4-6%
R EHEARSAL DINNER
4-5%
2-3%
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
4-6%
2-3%
CER EMON Y
STATIONERY
Marriage license/name change fees, site/officiant fees, aisle runner, canopy, candelabras, unity candle, other decorations
Announcements/save-the-date cards, invitations with envelopes and enclosures, programs, reception place cards, thank-you notes, postage
To ceremony, to photo sites, to reception, to wedding night venue, extra provision for special guests
Site rental, food, beverages, tips
34
W EDDING RINGS
What will be worn comfortably
MUSIC
Ceremony and reception
6-8%
Ceremony decor; bouquets for bride and attendants; boutonnieres; corsages for mothers, grandmothers, readers and special guests; for reception: centerpieces, cake topper, bouquet to toss
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
2-3%
TR ANSPORTATION
GIFTS
2-3% Bride and groom, attendants, parents
Lodging, welcome bags for out-of-town guests, wedding night accommodations
1-2%
EXTR AS
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ESSENTIALS FINACES
Skillful planning merges finances TALK ABOUT SPENDING, THINK LIKE COUPLE, BLEND ASSETS. Tying the marital knot into a successful
Blending finances may be a touchy subject
bow is not always easy, but merging ideas
for some couples, especially those who give it
DISCUSS FINANCES EARLY AND OFTEN. The topic is too important in begin-
and discussing goals for their wedding early
little thought before planning to wed. However,
ning a healthy relationship to tread lightly
ensures newlyweds a first step in getting off
couples can take steps to make the process
around it. Couples who discuss expenditures and
on the right financial foot.
progress smoothly.
spending habits as early as possible find it easier to develop a financial plan now and later. When discussing the topic, define both short-term and long-term goals and how each of you can adjust your own habits to ensure they come true.
Ambruster Great Hall “Memories are made here”
PAY OFF DEBTS. When merging finances for the future, couples should prioritize paying down wedding and honeymoon debt ‒ and certainly any left from before the celebration ‒ so they can move forward with less stress. Even with little or no debt, newly married couples may be tempted to finish furnishing a home or reward themselves after their blissful wedding. New debt certainly adds stress to marriage as much as debt from the wedding, so
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avoid this potential pitfall at the start by using merged finances to pay down existing debt.
OPEN A JOINT ACCOUNT. Use it to pay for mutual expenses. Both partners should be responsible for mortgage payments, food and utilities, so a joint account handles these expenses. At the onset, discuss how much and how often each will contribute money. If one partner earns considerably more than the
Wedding Ceremony/Reception · Rehearsal Dinners Event Planning · Event Parties · Corporate Events Banquets · Proms · Floral Design · Fund Raising
other, work out a reasonable agreement that details how much each will contribute weekly, biweekly or monthly.
BE REASONABLE. Life is not divided equally. When merging finances, couples often discover they do not see eye-to-eye on how each spends money. Couples who successfully merge
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finances often note the importance of allowing for a partner’s spending on certain hobbies or luxuries. As long as those expenditures do not put the couple in debt or jeopardize their financial goals, each half of a couple can make concessions so both partners continue to be happy and enjoy favorite activities. Marriage is not always 50-50, so some accommodation will be necessary.
36
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ESSENTIALS MONEY DANCE
5 steps to get organized SET PRIORITIES, DECIDE WHO PAYS, LIST TRANSACTIONS. The process is not magical. From start to
1. TAKE TIME TO THINK
2. SIT DOWN AND DECIDE
finish, it is imperative to be organized instead
Becoming married takes an “I do.” Memory
Before setting plans in motion, decide
of waiting for hocus-pocus intervention. A few
of the “I did it” party should be happy. No rule
who can pay for what. There may be a definite
management priorities help keep wedding
about who pays for what is set in stone. See a
vision of how this best-ever wedding will look.
planning in check and on schedule.
condensed traditional list that follows.
Whether a couple is established or starting out, they must consider financial priorities as they envision ways for their wedding to unfold. For smooth planning, there should be give-andtake as well as thoughtful consideration in this discussion between a couple and all their parents. Compromise and imaginative ideas save the day and progress toward an event everyone remembers with great joy and fondness for each other. Couples often contribute to their own wedding. Parents may play a less traditional role by paying for an item like flowers or offering a specific amount toward a bill.
3. MAKE A SPREADSHEET List every item as it is decided. Organize the spreadsheet to your taste. Color-code, divide, title it in any way that makes sense to you. It helps track expenses even when receipts are lost. Thus, if you accidentally misplace the paperwork, your budget keep you up-to-theminute electronically.
4. LIST AND ADD DETAILS Not knowing what is due when disorganizes both bride and groom. Enter each item. How is it purchased ‒ by check, credit or cash? List what it buys. Extra columns show how much is due, by when and how you will pay for it. Immediately list an expense when it is incurred and paid even in part, filling in matching columns for details.
5. SAVE ALL RECEIPTS Designate a large envelope to keep every receipt for the wedding. Knowing where each nickel and dime goes, you won’t be baffled to see the path your budget follows. Receipts avoid disregarding minor expenses. Misplacing even a few dollars here and there certainly will overrun a budget.
38
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The Groom ✤ Rehearsal dinner
✤ Clothing for groom and his family ✤ Wedding ring and gift for bride; gifts
for groomsmen/ushers
✤ Bride’s bouquet, mothers’ corsages,
AND HIS FAMILY
boutonnieres for groom, groomsmen, ushers, dads; gifts for groomsmen/ushers
✤ Marriage license and officiant fee ✤ Transportation for groom and
best man to ceremony
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WHO PAYS FOR WHAT The Bride
AND HER FAMILY ✤ Clothes for bride and her parents ✤ Wedding ring and gift for groom,
gifts for bridesmaids
✤ Ceremony site, music, rented
equipment such as arch and carpet
✤ Save-the-dates, invitations,
programs, thank-you notes
✤ Bouquets for bridesmaids, cor
sages for grandmothers, flowers for ceremony and reception
✤ Reception expenses: site,
decorations, food, drink, music, cake, favors, photo booth
✤ Transportation of wedding party
and others as needed to various sites: preparation, ceremony, photo locations, reception, after-party ✤ Wedding photography/
videography ✤ Accommodations for out-of-town
relatives/guests ✤ Honeymoon arrangements Heather Roth Fine Art Photography
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ESSENTIALS MARRIAGE LICENSE
LOCATIONS TO CALL
Sign on
In Missouri
T H E DOT T ED L I N E
FRANKLIN COUNTY (636) 583-6367 Union
MAKE-A-DATE: LEGAL REQUIREMENTS TOP ‘TO-DO’ LIST.
JEFFERSON COUNTY (636) 797-5414 Hillsboro LINCOLN COUNTY (636) 528-0325 Troy ST. CHARLES COUNTY (636) 949-7506 St. Charles ST. LOUIS CITY (314) 622-4610 St. Louis
b
efore two people head to the ceremony and then run off into matrimonial bliss, they must apply for a marriage license. A legitimate officiant will not marry you without one. Rules vary between
states, as marriage is considered a civil contract between a state and the two people initiating it. Where the wedding is performed, not where the couple lives, determines where a license should be secured. For a ceremony not in Missouri or Illinois, the website www.usmarriagelaws.com can direct you to any state that will be your destination. Marriage license requirements change often by state, even between counties, so it is important to verify ALL information with the local marriage license office or county clerk where you will be married before making any wedding or travel plans. Each county also directs its own schedule for a courthouse marriage by a judge.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY (314) 615-7100 Clayton
Getting Married
WARREN COUNTY (636) 456-9800 Warrenton
person to be married be single and not blood-
IN THE SHOW-ME STATE The state of Missouri requires that each related. If one is younger than 18, a parent or guardian must consent to the marriage and present a copy of a certified birth certificate.
In Illinois MADISON COUNTY (618) 692-6290 Edwardsville ST. CLAIR COUNTY (618) 277-6600, ext. 2377 Belleville
A cash-only, non-refundable charge of about $50 must be paid at the time of application. For an additional fee, a certified certificate can be issued as proof of marriage or as a keepsake.
Nuptials
IN THE LAND OF LINCOLN
in any Missouri county or the city of St. Louis.
Getting married in Illinois differs on some
Each must show a valid form of government-
details. A couple still needs to be single, not
issued identification, such as a current passport,
related and at least 18 years old. Sixteen- and
state ID or driver’s license, listing date of birth.
17-year-olds must have parental consent. No
Unless the Social Security number is on
one under the age of 16 can be married.
your ID, a Social Security card is also required
Like its neighbor, Illinois requires a valid
in Missouri. A person without a Social Security
form of identification and proof of age for
MONROE COUNTY (618) 939-8681, ext. 302 Waterloo
number must sign a form of verification.
both parties, who must be present at the time
JERSEY COUNTY (618) 498-5571, ext. 112 Jerseyville
tests are required. However, if an individual is
Also, a waiting period of 24 hours is
divorced, the final decree must be at least 30
required after application. The license, how-
days prior to the date of application.
ever, is valid for 60 days.
CLINTON COUNTY (618) 594-6620 Carlyle
40
Prior to the ceremony, the couple must appear together at the recorder of deeds office
the license being issued.
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
The couple can apply for a license and be married on the same day, if desired. No blood
of application – but only in the county where they will be married.
The marriage license is valid in any coun-
A certified decree or certificate of divorce
ty, but only within Missouri. The marriage
likely will be required by the clerk issuing
ceremony must take place within 30 days of
a license.
The cost of applying for a marriage license varies by county. For example, the fee in
for naming an officiant and fulfilling his or
within 15 days to the recorder issuing it. In Illinois, the officiant may be an
her duties.
Madison County is $30. This non-refundable,
A marriage may be performed in Missouri
ordained minister, active or retired judge, or a
cash-only fee is due at the time of application.
by any clergyman, active or retired; a judge,
public official whose powers include solemni-
including municipal judge; a religious society,
zation of marriages. The signed license should
institution or organization of which either party
be filled out and returned to the recorder of
is a member. The paperwork must be returned
deeds within 90 days of issuance.
WHO CAN OFFICIATE Missouri and Illinois also differ in criteria
Once engaged, plan a Pre-Wedding Party. StLouisBestBridal.com Bridal Marketplace
NEW NAMES Before marrying, a couple should decide what names they will use later. After the wedding, registering a new name on documents and records may require a certified marriage license with a proof of residence bearing current name and address. Check each authority’s specific needs.
C
Clarice’s Bridal BASIC SEVEN TO START 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Social Security card Driver’s license or state ID card Passport Bank accounts and checks Credit cards Insurance policies Post office address
Brand New Location!
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2016 Dates Still Available! Schedule a tour with us by July 31, 2016 and receive a gift certificate for one FREE round of golf.
180 N. Eatherton Rd., Chesterfield, MO 63005 636-728-1927 jaclyn@landingsatspirit.com www.LandingsAtSpirit.com
Conne L OV E S TORY CONNECTION
‘We just connected. She is smart, funny.’
rebecca & john SEPTEMBER 19, 2015 Rebecca Roberts was taking a break at Busch Stadium during the National League Division Series in October 2013 when John
either expected. Rebecca sprinted to get to her live shot on time. John recalled, “Right away I thought, ‘She is beautiful,’ but we talked for the first inning and I was late for the meeting. We just
Sheehan stepped on deck. “I was working that night covering fans and went into the Champions Club for something to eat,” said Rebecca, a reporter and
connected. She is smart, funny. There was a natural connection.” John is senior vice president of CBS Radio (KMOX, Y98, KEZK).
fill-in anchor at that time for Fox 2. John took up the story. “I was
Obvious signs were there. Both actively participated on many
expected at an appointment, but Dan Farrell (senior vice president
teams in their adopted hometown: music, sports, community com-
of sales and marketing for the St. Louis Cardinals) asked if I knew
mitment. Their collegiate schools were basketball-savvy: Wichita
Rebecca. I said I did not. He said, ‘Come with me.’ Dan introduced
native John rooted for the Jayhawks while attending the University
us and left me hanging there by myself.”
of Kansas, while New Yorker Rebecca attended Duke University in
Keeping the conversation swinging, John lingered longer than
North Carolina.
STORY BY JANICE DENHAM ✤ PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROBERT GEORGE STUDIO
SPRING & SUMMER 2016
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43
ection On their first date, Rebecca said, “There definitely was chemis-
and her mother, a thousand miles apart, arranged details. Rebecca
try. We met for a drink and stayed to share three courses over three
shopped for her gown in New York with her mother and grand-
hours with wine and lots of conversation.”
mother, who was unable to travel to the wedding. On her wrist at
The communicators were not stymied when Rebecca soon called
the rehearsal party, she wore a great grandmother’s diamond watch.
a time-out for vocal surgery. Her whiteboard messages were forward-
A piece of gold from each family, melted into their rings, symbolized
ed. The relationship escalated by December. Within six months,
their merging heritage. Bedazzling jewelry from Genovese Jewelers
marriage discussion became serious.
accented her gown, which held a small blue bow tucked inside.
John took a long lead on a plan to propose when her parents
Programs detailed the Jewish ceremony and introduced the
would be in town on Nov. 8, 2014. Thrown off base, Rebecca said,
wedding party with funny anecdotes. Guests noticed wedding photos
“It was really sweet that he included them. It shows his value and
of the couples’ parents and offered Rebecca and John advice as they picked up table cards.
respect for family.” He and her dad had “a great talk” that morning,
Based at a sweetheart table,
a preview to continuing rapport.
the newlyweds watched 150 guests
John wanted the occasion to be
enjoy their wedding day, stepping
elegant, not gimmicky.
away to greet them with a “mean-
“He made a beautiful speech at
ingful hello.” Rebecca summa-
a nice dinner,” she said. “He also
rized, “That is how we like to be
arranged for friends, people we care
– not stuffy – and have a wedding
about, to be with us at the Grand
that is elegant but fun. We love
Hall of Union Station afterward.”
doing everything together. We live a rich life at each other’s side.”
The transplanted St. Louisans based their wedding date on non-
The wedding cake held passion
rainy days for the annual Great
fruit mousse filling, a tasting choice
Forest Park Balloon Race. They set
of the couple and her parents. They
“9/19” as the date in 2015.
served a late-evening snack of cookies and Clementine’s ice cream.
A rehearsal dinner in the Champions Club where they met
The new bride and groom
kicked off a welcoming week-
started dancing to “Then” by
end which offered St. Louis first-
Brad Paisley. Rebecca and her
timers and locals an insider’s view
dad danced to “The Way You
of Busch Stadium. Fredbird came
Look Tonight.” Halfway through
to acknowledge baseball’s place
“Uptown Funk” with their imme-
on their matchmaking roster. For Rebecca, the party was an endearing opener in a weekend of memorable highlights.
‘We live a rich life at each other’s side.’
“Everyone is here for us, surrounding us with love and support,”
diate family, John’s children, they invited guests to join them – an instant party starter. Later, an anniversary dance recognized the
bride’s great aunt and uncle as the longest-married couple.
she remembered. Similarly, John later added a memory from their
“Seeing that dance floor crowded every part of the night with
ceremony. “I was standing at the altar and looking out at this amazing
generations of people coming together who knew each other for
group of friends and family also waiting for Rebecca.”
years or met for the first time is a great memory,” John said. Guests
Having prepared at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis, the bride
walked the newlyweds out of their reception after the last song.
stepped dramatically down the carpeted staircase. John “definitely
The next day, the couple selected favorite brunch dishes from a
teared up” when he saw the woman who would be his wife that day.
favorite chef at The Restaurant at The Cheshire. After honeymoon-
The ceremony and reception were held at the Saint Louis Club.
ing in Spain and France, the new Mr. and Mrs. Sheehan arrived
John matched 10 groomsmen to Rebecca’s attendants, dressed in champagne-colored gowns, and two ushers. The organized bride
home with their team spirit intact, in time for the last Cardinal season game of 2015 and the St. Louis Blues’ season opener.
SPR E A D T H E N E WS DIRECT A COURSE
Ready, set, save the date ANNOUNCE THE TONE AND BASICS OF WEDDING. SAVE-THE-DATES PROVIDED BY THE INK CAFÉ
Save-the-date announcements are popular. Longer engagement periods, a growing number of destination weddings and a shrinking
cozy, elegantly styled or traditionally fashioned. Selecting the same style as wedding invitations ensures consistent pattern, fonts, colors, style. As a general rule, it is wise to deliver a save-the-date six months
world encourage couples who want to celebrate with guests from all over
before a standard wedding close to home. If the wedding requires travel
the globe to plan ahead with them. Letting relatives and friends know basic information is thoughtful.
or extended overnight accommodations, it is wise to allow eight months to a year so guests have time to investigate flight
It says you care enough to offer them adequate time to plan in advance or avoid business trips, vacations and other excursions that conflict with
SAVE-THE-DATE TELLS
your wonderful occasion. The happy result?
✤ Your names
More people decide to attend your wedding. The announcement form varies. It may be a postcard. Magnets intended for a refrigerator or
✤ Website information to check for updates ✤ Formal invitation will follow later
may reinforce an excited verbal announcement. Plus, it lets people know they will be invited to the main event.
46
Because everyone who receives one knows an invitation will follow, the guest list must be
✤ Wedding time, date and location
cabinet door keep the date in sight. A print version
and hotel information in advance.
complete before sending save-the-date notices. Include members of the planned wedding party in the list of recipients. A verbal commitment does not preclude a prospective guest from future announcements.
Circumstances change; accept them gracefully.
A save-the-date may follow a theme or announce it. When it matches
Treating everyone equally avoids hurt feelings and lowers future
wedding invitations for a cohesive theme, this early declaration signals
drama. Courteously worded intentions, especially about bringing children
guests about the tenor of the jubilation and celebration – intimate and
or perhaps a close friend, also clear the air for smooth planning later.
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
One side sends details, the other sets a tone with more information or simply sets the bridal look. A photo shares the couple’s personality flowing with the happy message. (Above) A couple states their case clearly in few words and initiates a motif on a bold black background that will extend throughout their wedding. (Below) Color highlights two save-the-dates in distinctly different fonds. A light, starry-eyed feel names the couple by first and last name, while another (bottom) shouts out the glitz and glamour of the occasion beside a magical-moment photo. Rustic or romantic, a save-the-date sticks to basic information. Its message is simple. We love each other. We want to spend the rest of our lives together. We want you to join us when we make our public commitment. (Opposite) Whimsy does not interfere with information as the intention rides on wispy style. (Top) Classic but styled with clarity, the message tells who, what, when and how. (Above) A beach theme may predict a wedding faraway or a setting imported for a nearby event. (Below) Double the impact: Send wishes for the holiday and share a new year of joy and celebration “with love.”
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Event Centers, Catering, & Special Event Design
Menus range from traditional to custom designed. We’ll cater to any location or one of our elegant facilities.
Outstanding Cuisine, Creative Presentation and Exceptional Service!
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• Everything you need from creating your event Design to Executing the wedding of your dreams • Certified Felurologist and Event Designer mentored by Adelena Whitaker Rooney and David Tutera • Awarded St Louis Best of the Best Event Rental Service Professional • Stylish one of a kind table linens and chair treatments View our gallery of events at www.adornedoccasions.com info@adornedoccasions.com • 814-883-2573 48
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SPR E A D T H E N E WS INVITATIONS
JOIN US From the minute wedding planning begins, a deluge of feelings shakes whatever security made a couple say, “I will.” Slowly but surely, their look evolves. Perhaps a scribble or initial, the shape of a lamppost or a wedding dream lurking in a bride’s subconscious since she played with dolls, it sparks a confident design. Sharing that personal pattern invites a return to stability as an invitation to share the joy of a promise unfolds and invites smiling responses. STATIONERY provided by THE INK CAFE
TIP:
Combine personalities.
Just as your home enfolds and meshes each of your individual styles, so do the two of you share your merger through invitations and announcements. Together, you exclaim to loving relatives and friends that he may be “a little-bit-country” and you a little more “lace-and-scroll.” Christy Asper of The Ink Cafe begins by designing an invitation, then adapts it for save-the-dates and other helpful side pieces. Using a wood-plank background, she plants first-name initials inside a ring of flowers, symbol of eternal wedding vows. A practical fan thoughtfully cools the day and lists the program and wedding party lineup.
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TIP:
Simplify and contrast.
(Above) Lace pops up everywhere. Two pre-cut paper doilies fit around an invitation, while a bow made of kitchen twine kindles suspenseful enthusiasm for opening this hand-wrapped delicacy, a smart application of an upscale, and possibly expensive, idea if made with laser-cut paper. Asper noted the earthy feel of brown paper, decorated with the couple’s emblematic initial design, grounds its lacy appeal. The combination pleases both feminine and masculine aesthetics in presenting an invitation both endorse.
50
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
TIP:
Weigh the investment.
(Below) A watercolor design artfully invites guests to share the bride and groom’s “adventure as they exchange vows.” Like other wedding details, work by human hand costs more, so budgetary guidelines help a couple decide what they are willing to pay for items that matter most to them. Trade-offs may be found. Fewer pieces or pockets condense an invitation’s information. One side of card stock may announce a save-the-date, while the reverse conveys a timely personal wish from “the future Mr. and Mrs. YourName.” The wedding tone shared in all communications may include an inexpensive wedding website.
TIP:
Grab attention.
(Above) Stripes and dots, blacks and golds make personal statements on wedding stationery. Shout them out or use them selectively as an opening surprise on envelope liners, ribbons or a simple contrasting line or border. Blush, one of this year’s favorite colors, is a soft and refreshing standout. Carefully consider wording. Thoughtful and gracious naming of parents draws them into the family photo that is being newly framed.
TIP:
Picture this.
(Below) Your engagement photo is worth a thousand words in telling about you, so frame your faces well to show your love and personality. Part of the wedding invitation, a wedding response card prominently initiates conversation to plan your day. Be specific, direct and make it easy for prospective guests to respond, giving yourself plenty of leeway time. Options on the card may include whether or not they will attend, how many will attend and, if applicable, what their meal choice will be at the reception.
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by Kitchen Charm™
Scan for FUN STUFF!
dinner4two.com facebook.com/ Dinner4Two twitter.com/ Dinner_4_Two
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F E AT U R E PARTY PLANS
Relax, mingle and
get acquainted Wedding planning may be stressful
one can meet or renew acquaintances,
not just for the bride and groom, but
discuss details and amp up enthusiasm
it may affect the entire bridal party. A
for the nuptials.
rehearsal dinner, usually held a night or
Like all bridal events, it should
two before the wedding, is the perfect
reflect the personality and style of the
time for a couple to kick back and relax
couple and their families – from food to
with favorite family and friends on the
guests and location.
cusp of the wedding itself. With a little forward thinking, a rehearsal dinner may be an occasion to remember.
WHY HAVE A REHEARSAL DINNER? This party traditionally is hosted by the groom or groom’s parents,
SO WHAT SHOULD THE PARTY INCLUDE? Depending on budget and bridal party preferences, dinner can consist of anything from a sit-down restaurant meal to leisurely fun with takeout Chinese food or delivered pizza.
sometimes even without a rehearsal.
A creative and personal location,
Of course, the bride’s parents also can
theme or menu energizes the event to
join the planning.
make it memorable. Themed parties like
The rehearsal, mutually convenient for both celebrant and wed-
a luau, picnic or Mexican fiesta are great ideas. A location like the
ding party, may be an occasion or prelude to greet out-of-towners.
Saint Louis Zoo might provide the impetus to build a party theme,
The wedding party gathers over dinner or dessert to relax, chat and
as it did for the summer wedding of Doctors Kelly MacArthur and
celebrate the bride and groom. In this less intense atmosphere, every-
Brian Baumann. Many venues offer a party bonus.
Guests at the rehearsal dinner for Doctors Kelly MacArthur and Brian Baumann included residents of the Saint Louis Zoo, which supplied a jungle theme indoors and outside. | Photos by VIDEO GATE STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY
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WHO SHOULD BE INVITED?
This smaller grouping lets people mingle and get to know
wedding officiant and his/her spouse, plus members of the
each other better, so it should be held conveniently. Guests can
wedding party and their spouses. It may include families or only
go over last-minute details, personally toast the happy couple and
adults. Casual dates are not usually invited.
visit more intimately before official events. The bride and groom
Special out-of-town guests just arriving may be invited as well. The couple can chat and catch up with their closest fans and guests will capture the excitement as the focus shifts from travel and preparation to the big event itself. It is not intended to take away from the longer day ahead.
54
WHAT HAPPENS AT THE DINNER?
This party usually is attended by the bride and groom, the
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may give thank-you gifts to the wedding party and thank everyone, including parents, for their participation and support. Find your stationer and spread the word StLouisBestBridal.com ď‚´ Bridal Marketplace
Stegton Regency
Conference & Banquet Center
Experience Reception Perfection We are a full-service wedding facility that handles most aspects of reception planning from inception to execution. Working with our clients, we assist them in selecting the details that will make their wedding day personal and unforgettable.
(636) 946-6860 1450 Wall Street • St. Charles • By Regency Plaza
www.stegton.com
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PA RT Y PL A N S THE TEAM
THE WEDDING PARTY HONOR THOSE WHO LOVE AND CARE ABOUT YOU.
O 56
n your wedding day, perhaps the happiest and
In memory and photograph, these individuals always
most hectic in your life, people who surround you
will stand beside you on this day of promise. Ask people
should be those you care about and trust. Bridal attendants
with whom you want to spend time – not only on that sin-
and groomsmen serve this purpose, so you and your spouse
gular day but in your future. A thoughtful bride and groom
should invite only close relatives, friends and longtime, faith-
consider options and assets for eligible attendants before
ful supporters.
they invite them to be part of their wedding.
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FLOWER GIRLS
Conventional wisdom lines up one to three attendants at a small, intimate wedding. A large
One or two flower girls, age 4 to 8, walk
and lavish or more formal affair likely will have
down the aisle alone or with a ring bearer.
more – up to 12 for each of you, provided they
A shy flower girl may be paired with a more
fit the purpose, site, camera lens and budget.
confident child. Family choice may determine
Most weddings line up four to seven.
if a parent makes an entrance with his or her
One groomsman per bridesmaid keeps
infant or very young child. Flower girls may
symmetry at the altar and in photos, but there
hold a ball of flowers on a ribbon, basket of
is no rule. Be certain that attendants feel com-
the groom asks a brother, close relative or best
rose petals to scatter, or baby roses to pass to
fortable with your choices for processional and
friend to stand beside him and, literally, get
guests as they walk down the aisle before the
pairings. A small group of guests at a destina-
him to the church on time.
bride.
BRIDESMAIDS/GROOMSMEN
RING BEARER
tion wedding may determine who will attend the bride and groom simply because they think enough of you to make a distant trip to be at
Sisters, brothers, other family members or
The ring bearer – a young boy of age 4 or
your side. If the officiant agrees, an attendant
close friends of either bride or groom usually
5 – walks down the aisle alone or with the flower
may be someone close of the opposite sex.
become bridesmaid, groomsman or usher. They
girl(s). He carries a decorative pillow or box to
Groomsmen or other men, as ushers, help
run wedding errands. Bridesmaids (sometimes
which real or artificial rings are attached with rib-
seat family and friends, with specific ones hon-
groomsmen, too) throw a bridal shower. All are
bon. To avoid misplacement, the best man may
ored to seat mothers of the bride and groom.
key guests at pre-wedding events.
securely hold real ones.
A young family or close-to-family member may be flower girl, ring bearer or train bearer. “Juniors” fall in age between young child and bridesmaid/groomsman.
MAID OR MATRON OF HONOR Whether already down the aisle (matron) or not (maid), an honor attendant should be someone dear to the bride’s heart and on whom she can personally depend – perhaps a sister or best friend – while planning and, just as importantly, on the wedding day.
BEST MAN The best man should be someone the groom trusts to help with his wedding details, and also provide moral support during this wonderful, stressful time of his life. Often,
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C OV E R S TORY LOOK AT CONTOURS
Glamorous gowns
BRIDE DISCOVERS WHAT TO WEAR IN 5 FASHIONABLE SHAPES. Gown shapes are as diverse as brides themselves. A mul-
al consultant can help match an attractive, becoming style.
titude of options balances unique contours for the short, tall,
Snap pictures and take notes for comparisons. Using these
lean or curvy. With a goal of having guests exclaim over how
five body shapes, a bride can build a base to enhance her look
marvelous you look, begin in the gown shop. Try on gowns
and structure her comfort. Each design compliments her sil-
with someone positively objective. A bride-to-be should
houette, but other shapes also line up to suggest a gown style
bring favorite ideas plus an open mind, so a professional brid-
which will gather never-ending compliments for the bride.
PEAR
RECTANGLE
HOURGLASS
Hips, and perhaps thighs, are wider than the
A straight line extends from shoulders to waist
A defined waist sits between hips and shoul-
shoulders. An A-line gown highlights the
to hips. Exult in a long, lean line or create new
ders similar in size. This figure delights in easy
indented natural waist so any added detail,
roundness geometrically with an A-line, a flir-
enhancement. Glamorize an indented waist
such as a studded waistband or softly flowing
tatious and frothy skirt or an elevated empire
and let natural curves contour the figure-
sash, accents the top and lets the skirt flow
waist for more skirt flow. Explore looks. A
hugging silhouette. A mermaid gown delights
with graceful ease. A V-neck frames the face
nipped waist provides high and low canvases
in this positive figure; a ball gown or sheath
and simple vertical, rather than horizontal,
for artistic uniqueness. Off-the-shoulder styles
style may navigate the day with ease. All neck-
lines shape curves into an hourglass for the
widen the top. Illusion pieces with embroi-
lines work. Fluffy tulle or even a double layer
eye to absorb.
dered lace play peekaboo with what may or
of feminine favorites poufs as it flares into a
may not be hiding under sheer fabric. Softly
ball gown from a cinched natural waistline
flowing fabric designs new curves. A slit elon-
or into a fit-and-flare style from an elongated
gates a tall bride’s legs and a contrasting sash
central line.
trims a wide middle.
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INVERTED TRIANGLE
APPLE
Shoulders are wider than hips. An off-shoulder
Fuller chest, broader shoulders and less defined
drape minimizes a generous bustline. A scoop
waist are countered by more slender thighs. An
neckline also outlines a lovely neck. Popular
empire waist eases lower flow, but a cinched
modesty and illusion pieces create balance
waist slenderizes the silhouette and balances
with a slimmer bodice so the eye moves down
proportion. For an attention grabber, a deep,
neck-to-knee embellishment. A ball gown with
plunging neckline draws attention away from
full skirt encourages flow, but a confident
a wide horizontal shoulder line and flatters the
bride’s short gown or high-low skirt exudes
bustline. A wide ribbon at the waist, a slightly
fun with alluring attention to shapely legs and
dropped waist, asymmetrical pleating or ruch-
spectacular shoes.
ing creates new focus in defining the waist.
Gowns abound. Start your search here. StLouisBestBridal.com ď‚´ Bridal Marketplace
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Weddings and Receptions - Let the ceLebRating begin
From weddings to anniversaries, holiday parties to birthdays and everything in-between, Whitmoor Country Club, with its elegant clubhouse, lush golf course views and wonderful menu choices, offers you a superb location for all your celebrations. This is the place for festivities that your guests will remember forever. 1100 Whitmoor Drive, St. Charles, MO 63304 636.926.9622 | sputnam@whitmoorgolf.com
Norm L OV E S TORY NORMALCY
‘I woke up with the biggest smile. I was marrying my best friend.’
lauren & nathan J U LY 11 , 201 5
Lauren Weiss and Nathan Heryford’s wedding was a
new interests was hard. Shrugging her shoulders, Lauren said,
longtime dream come true. Meeting in a St. Charles neigh-
“Back then, I don’t think we understood that they wanted us
borhood when he was in sixth grade and she was an eighth
to break up because we were so young.”
grader, they quickly became best friends.
The prince-and-princess story had another blip.
“We were both involved in a lot of sports,” Lauren
“When Nate and I first met, I was the average 14-year-old
recalled. “We walked up to the gas station to get Slushies. We
girl, but I was born with cystic fibrosis. I was hospitalized two
played on the same select soccer teams at the same field, so his
times a year.” Hearing about it before her first admission after
parents would drop us off and pick us both up.”
they became pals did not faze him. “It didn’t make a differ-
Life, however, was not smooth. After Lauren moved to live with her mother and stepfather in south St. Louis, they still met almost every weekend. A three-month hiatus to spur
ence in how I felt about her,” he said. Together they attended proms, homecomings, all events. Graduating from Lutheran South High School, Lauren
STORY BY JANICE DENHAM ✤ PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SUKOSKI BROS.
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malcy studied to become an EMT, a legacy of her stepfather’s family. After
decorated her niece’s wheelchair. Mark Chrun, with Monster Sounds
Nathan graduated from Francis Howell High School, he went to
D.J. Services, provided reception music.
Quincy College to study and play soccer. Lauren moved there, too.
Lauren said, “I can’t thank them enough. We were getting phone
Through years of treatment at Cardinal Glennon Children’s
calls every few weeks as they reached out.” Nathan counted “just shy
Hospital, now at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, he has supported her –
of 250” attending. Deputy Fire Chief Steve Kotraba, a friend of her
plus her wheelchair and oxygen tank – through up and down days
stepdad, officiated and lent a cherry-red Volkswagen Beetle for photos
and hospital “excursions,” one eight months long when she was 18.
later in Forest Park.
Nathan would entertain no hint about an engagement until he
“Right after Steve announced us as husband and wife,” Nathan
could support them. Armed with a degree and a job at Enterprise, he
said, “I bent down and asked if she was ready to do this.” With a nod, they raised arms in victory.
considered proposing at Ted Drewes
“Looking back on that day, I
Frozen Custard, but surprised her
see how happy I was,” said his bride.
Nov. 3, 2013, at his parents’ home. “I am a terrible liar, bad about
“I woke up with the biggest smile.
giving things away,” he said. Still,
I was marrying my best friend and
he fibbed about overtime work so he
will always have him. I will never
could search for a perfect ring. Her
be alone.”
memory of the big moment? “He said
Navy blue, silver gray and white
he wanted to marry me. I needed an
sparked details for seven bridesmaids,
inhaler after five minutes.” They set a
seven groomsmen, two ushers and a
wedding – “not too elaborate” – for
ring bearer. A friend from Quincy
summer 2015, hoping to tap her
now living in Poland, a surprise arriv-
season of best health.
al, joined the bridesmaids. Under his After
tuxedo, Nathan wore a “Team Lauren
Christmas in 2013, three nurses –
18” shirt for her soccer number and
maid of honor Courtney Elliott plus
their support of cystic fibrosis relief.
Anticipation
spread.
Maggie Hase and Courtney Biggs,
The newlyweds danced, laughed
owners of 2 Chics & a Photobooth –
and lived a day in what Lauren called
championed vendors to provide free
“a feeling of normalcy. During
or discounted services. Brittani Joyce
last 27 years, I have never had that.”
of Brittani Joyce Events oversaw the
She walked down the aisle without
project, adding photos by Sulkoski Bros. White Traditions Bridal House, with aid from Custom Alterations,
It didn’t make a difference in how I felt about her.’
the
oxygen. Families, friends and their health-adopted family cheered with all their hearts. Stepping in at the reception to
provided gown and veil. Lauren’s seamstress, Karen Lewis of Sew Susie, attached a blue heart cut from
Queen’s “Fat Bottomed Girls,” they danced at start and end to “I Just
her stepdad’s uniform to fit next to her own heart and dressed an
Call You Mine” by Martina McBride. When the bride and her stepdad
oxygen tank to match. Dads of Courtney and Brittani added expert
did the Worm Dance “a little too hard,” a 911 crew rescued her with
flowers and lighting. 2 Chics guided save-the-dates and manned a
oxygen. “That’s my life. I can go from a situation where my health can
photo booth, Betsy N Co. Creative prepared invitations. Our Hair
take me out, then I bounce right back to doing what I want to do,”
Salon styled makeup and hair for the bride and bridal party.
she explained. Lemp Mansion allowed time to finish what the groom
A ceremony at the Jewel Box opened the St. Louis backdrop.
called a “perfect” day.
Grand Hall of Lemp Mansion Restaurant & Inn formed new memo-
A few weeks before the wedding, Nathan planned to fulfill
ries since Lauren’s mother and stepdad celebrated their own wedding
Lauren’s dream to “see blue water” – in Antigua. “They watched the
there almost 22 years earlier. Presidential Limo provided transporta-
way Nate cared for me, carrying me or the oxygen on his shoulder,
tion for the newlyweds. Complete Weddings + Events caught the day
holding hands. They said they see a lot of love in couples there, but
on video. Mary Wedemeier baked and decorated a tiered cake and
never anything so significant and beautiful,” she said appreciatively.
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C OV E R S TORY GOWNS
Amazing Designs
On location at Missouri Bluffs Golf Club, modeled by Nicole Cosgrove, and Innsbrook Resort, modeled by Nicole Cosgrove and Courtney Booher Photos by Trotter Photo ✤ Bouquets by Walter Knoll Florist Gowns from Wedding Gallery Bridal Salon
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65
(Previous page) Thin rows of English netting ruffle with excited appeal toward the chapel train on a Victor Harper trumpet skirt design. A beaded belt at the dropped waist enhances a diagonally ruched bodice of silk satin with a sweetheart neckline.
(Right) Illusion sparkles in festive beads and crystals embroidered on English netting in a floral design over lustrous charmeuse satin. Concentrated bands of reflective decoration accent a “V� neckline in front as well as in the back where fabric-covered buttons conceal a convenient zipper and the design of delight continues to flow into a chapel train.
(Left) Fashionable and fantastic, a loose-fitting illusion bolero with bateau neckline enhances a simple neckline. Swarovski crystals form a scalloped design for a custom fit with a one-of-a-kind option. A hand-beaded belt by Yumi Katsura Couture provides a floral design at the natural waistline embroidered in fine crystal rhinestones, glass beads and satin embellishments.
66
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(Below) Old-fashioned elegance stands in the popular forefront with a fit-and-flare gown of Alencon lace. A corset closure extends almost to the edge of the elongated bodice where the full skirt floats into a semi-cathedral train with the intermittent lace defining the scalloped edge. (Right) Crystal-embellished organza flowers are a-flutter on a birdcage headpiece, also a design of Wedding Gallery Bridal Salon.
(Left) Garden-look bouquet: Blue iris with luminous yellow-centered beards, Ocean Song lavender roses, spring green viburnum, petite tulips, lavendershaded sweet peas, plus nestling fillers of Queen Anne’s lace, caspia and blue eryngium.
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Beaded Alencon lace overlays romantic sheer tulle enhanced with clear crystals in a French twist with the fit-and-flare gown’s sweetheart neckline, corset back and scalloped lace at skirt’s edge. (Below) A fresh pallet softens under spring’s glow. Mango-colored mini callas, peach spray roses, orange tulips, ivory hypericum berries, green leucadendron, seeded eucalyptus and white astilbe stem from a base of green hydrangea. Wheat adds good luck to the hand-tied bouquet.
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(Above) A late-summer bouquet spans festive seasons with an exhibition (football) mum surrounded by rust button pomps, ruby astrantia, burgundy mini callas, lavender Ocean Song roses, silver brunia balls, burgundy ranunculus, dusty miller and seeded eucalyptus. Its green hanging amaranthus symbolizes everlasting love.
Soft tulle offers an elusive view on a gown punctuated emphatically with a dramatic back, bateau neckline and sleeveless edge. Strategically beading with Swarovski crystals on tulle extends through a softly flowing skirt as fabric-covered buttons outline the center back.
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C OV E R S TORY FURRY FRIENDS
Wedding pets of honor STORY BY JANICE DENHAM ✤ PHOTOS PROVIDED BY VIDEO GATE STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY
W
70
hen casting roles and responsibilities
with Sheina’s stepfather at New Bethel United
for her wedding to Andrew Adams on
Methodist Church, Glen Carbon, and assumed
April 28, 2015, Sheina Franco easily knew her
positions of honor amid the wedding party of
first choices for flower girl and ring bearer.
three attendants each for the bride and groom.
The bride said, “I had nobody little who was
Having lived with the pets for multiple
close to me. So, I thought, why not use the
years, Sheina felt confident they could perform
dogs?” The groom agreed.
well under the day’s pressure.
Her mother’s rescue dogs ‒ Lila, a Doberman
Her mother found wedding-portrait cloth-
from Midwest Doberman Rescue, and Romo, a
ing for them from online sources. Lila wore
Doberman-labrador mix ‒ walked up the aisle
a sweet pink tutu with blue bow accents and
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bracelets and necklace of pearls. Romo was
a pillow around Romo’s neck.
party, the canine duo lined up with the new-
handsomely bedecked in black and white.
“They were up with us in the altar area.
lyweds and wedding party after the ceremony
A white silk rose matching the wedding
Everyone was pleasantly surprised. They were
to receive guests’ congratulations. They relaxed
party’s flowers contrasted his black top hat
cute and well behaved,” the bride recalled.
for the rest of the day back at home.
and black buttons stood out on white vest
“Romo was actually very good with the top hat.
Including the Dobermen will be a welcome
cuffs. A red supportive brace on a back leg
He likes wearing coats and things like that. I
but bittersweet memory, Sheina decided. Romo
presented a colorful accent.
think Lila knew it was a special occasion.”
was diagnosed with cancer in the months after
The best man retrieved the real rings from
Like any diligent member of a wedding
the wedding.
8 PET TREATS Sheina Franco advises couples exploring the addition of a pet to their wedding. 1. Be certain your mate is fully on board.
Sheina grew up with inside pets, while Andrew’s family had dogs outdoors. 2. Check with the officiant. It was a topic
during Sheina and Andrew’s premarital counseling with the officiant from the church they attend. 3. Accept the animal’s limits. 4. Account for guests’ comfort zone.
Situate an animal next to someone who will appreciate him, yet neither pet nor human would be expected to interfere with the main event. 5. Keep logistics comfortable. The couple
did not pursue a reception facility that would accommodate the dogs. Sheina preferred “to not keep them out too long” and avoid tempting their sweet disposition with unfamiliar food, sounds and people. 6. Bring treats. Romo loves cheese, Lila
prefers biscuits from the All-Natural Pet Center in Edwardsville.
Overlooking the Missouri wine valley and nestled within the wooded Missouri River bluffs, The Vineyard at Riverbend Chapel is the perfect location for your outdoor wedding. Or tie the knot inside our chapel where a cozy reception area allows guests to mingle by the fireplace. The formal ballroom in the lower level is adorned with chandeliers, stone arched bar and fireplace, generous cherry dance floor and large windows with sweeping views of the river valley and surrounding wooded area. We’d like to invite you to come take a tour of the enchanting Vineyard at Riverbend Chapel. PHOTOS: PHOTO VIDEO IMAGE PRODUCTIONS
7. Trust your instincts. “If it is something
you want to do, no matter who objects, and you are close to your pet, don’t hesitate to put him into your wedding,” the bride recommended. 8. Be certain the photographer can work
with and position pets for positive memories.
(636) 390-8600 | 4247 Old Highway 100, Washington, Missouri 63090
The best weddings start here. StLouisBestBridal.com Bridal Marketplace
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71
F E AT U R E GOWN TRENDS
forward-facing
T
FASHION “Backs now extend right into the train, which a bride may
exture and flow. That is how today’s bride of tomorrow envisions her
extend for a head-to-toe look,” Hale said. “And it is definitely time
unique look, said Cara Hale, store manager of The Ultimate
for the undertone. Cafe, mocha, light gold, creams, caramels show subtle color ‒ simply soft and bridal.”
Bride. “We will never lose the request for a
More than half of those looking for
look of classic elegance,” she said. “That is
gowns at The Ultimate Bride request
consistent because it is a timeless look.”
their dress-of-a-lifetime to be comfortable.
Loosening the feel of super-security
Designers cater to them, she said.
in her gown, a bride-to-be likely seeks less structure with fabrics like crepe, charmeuse
“Dresses are a lot of fun. With a strong
and satin flowing to showcase her body
solid fabric, you will have pockets on the
naturally. Shapes of Venise and cotton lace
skirt. ‘Tattoo lace’ details mesh on a low,
and similar blends display a patterned story.
open back with lace part or all the way up.
Edges, scalloped in lace or sometimes using
There still is a lot of strong sparkle. The pop-
strands of horsehair for stability and decora-
ular beaded belt has a little heavier look with
tion, look polished. With fabric gliding over
ornate pieces more resembling diamonds
the body, a bride shows curves, tucks in her waist and lets the skirt
than sequins. We have a ‘belt wall’ with about 200 styles so brides
flow for easy glamour. Illusion fabrics and lace tease.
can show their stylish waistline.”
✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤ ✤TARA ✤ ✤KEELY ✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ (Above) A lacy beaded illusion neckline rounds at the sheer back and above a sweetheart neckline in the front. The illusion extends to ladylike cap sleeves. At the natural waistline, an encrusted belt adds magic to a happy-go-lucky tulle skirt with chapel train. Two gowns individualize a single lace. (Left) The long-sleeve bodice of a crepe sheath has ornate ivory Venise lace with cashmere lining. (Right) The same firmtextured lace forms a scallop detail at the sweetheart neckline and extends down an elongated bodice to showcase a frothy skirt delight of tiered tulle with horsehair trim and a chapel train.
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✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤MARTINA ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤LIANA ✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ Elusive illusion is the look of a sensational sheath with individually placed motifs of Guipure lace. It frames the bride in a fantasy of flowers on a sweetheart bodice, then over tulle at the simple neckline, over the shoulders and down the arms to a cuff-like edge. The skirt forms a smooth column of simple splendor with fabriccovered buttons leading to an elegant train.
✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤ ✤ ✤ ✤BLANCA ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ PALOMA ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ ✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ (Above) Double box pleats ease a generous full skirt with pockets in a wedding gown of silk dupioni, a shimmery fabric with slightly irregular texture for texture. Straps on the sleeveless bodice of Alencon lace face forward modestly but leave a V-shaped open back for a bride looking for a strong and comfortable, yet decidedly feminine, presentation.
(Left) An organza tie strategically punctuates the low back of an elegantly structured satin gown. A simple bateau front neckline hardly hints at the stunning back with beaded straps. Above the fit-and-flare skirt and chapel train lays an artistic, beaded belt.
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T
R
LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC SOULARD NEIGHBORHOOD
HeatHer rotH Fine art PHotograPHy
Banquets at Affordable Prices!
Visit our webs site. thefranklinroom.net Call today for an appointment. 314-664-7706
816 Allen Avenue, St. Louis, Mo 63104 74
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F I N E RY GOWNS
Love looks …
WEDDING GALLERY BRIDAL SALON EXCLUSIVE: Tessa Tomnitz happily awaits a surprise from Abedalaziz (AB) Jaber. Doubleembroidered, corded lace with shiny beading and Swarovski crystals swoops in a “V” front and back, formed by tank-style straps, on the bodice of the champagne-colored gown. A beaded sash marks her natural waistline and soft tulle falls over a skirt of charmeuse lace. AB wears a classic two-button tuxedo from MEN’S WEARHOUSE.
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(Clockwise from top left) DAVID’S BRIDAL, exclusive Galina Signature Collection: Kirsten Bourbon (left) projects glamorous drama with a V-plunge neckline and fitted, scallop-edged lace tank bodice detailed with beads, lowering to a trumpet skirt in ruffled tiers of lace and tulle. Alongside, Grace Sivcovich's two-piece ivory gown has an eye-catching mikado boatneck crop top imitating a button-back closure. An organza handkerchief skirt with sweep train is pure fun. ✤ WEDDING G A L LERY BR IDA L S A L ON: Befitting the feminine Ines di Santo Luxe collection, Da rc y Oberkramer’s fit-and-flare gown glistens with beads and Swarovski crystals covering lace on almost-cap sleeve straps. A gently sweetheart bodice in front drops dramatically low in back. Its natural waistline gathers glamour above soft silk organza gently ruched along the hips to flow asymetrically into skirt layers and semi-cathedral train. ✤ DAVID’S BRIDAL: Mom and daughter Linda and Ashtyn Kuelker delight as a duo. Mom Linda looks headed to her prince’s ball in a show-stopping Oleg Cassini gown of organza and lace. Corset details, beaded Venise lace appliques and cascading skirt ruffles enliven the fairy-tale dress. Ashtyn meets cheek-to-check in a short, corded lace dress colored aubergine with halter neckline and keyhole back. Scalloped lace edges the skirt and ribbon bands the neckline and ties at the back waist. ✤ MIA GRACE BRIDAL: Madison Smith floats dreamily in an Allure gown. Rich crystals infuse delicate applique lace and a deep sweetheart neckline adds a softly beaded edge. Complementing natural curves, the skirt flares dramatically at the lower torso and lace cascades waterfallstyle atop a softly gathered English net skirt, perfect for twirls as belle of the wedding dance.
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Love rests in its beauty.
MIA GRACE BRIDAL: (Left) An Allure taffeta gown with pockets, worn by Kayla Sanchez, is ready for unique, imaginative accessories. A crystal belt outlines the natural waist. Delicate lace covers the bodice and trails down the skirt. (Center) Maysilee by Sophia Tolli, a trend-setting taffeta gown in gold and ivory worn by Brianna Smith, is strapless in design (or with straps) with sweetheart neckline and lace-up back. Sparkling crystals embellish neckline, hip and back. Asymmetrical pleating flatters from bodice to hip
as it flares into a stunning skirt with chapel-length train. (Right) Jessica Boewer’s striking Allure gown captures the ethereal beauty of delicate lace over charmeuse and satin. Updated traditional features include a look of cap sleeves and a soft fit-and-flare skirt gently flares to cascade into elegant scallops at the hemline and chapel-length train. Today's sheer illusion drapes a keyhole back and covered buttons line the back neckline-to-hip. A champagne-colored satin sash ties up contrasting elegance for any figure.
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C OV E R S TORY BOUQUETS
Garden Glory
et gat hers an il, a lux uriou s bouqu Along the brida l tra dd ing par ty. we rs as par t of the abu nd ance of flowe s lavender me fra S FT GI D AN SCHN UCKS FL OR IST bu rgu ndy d an ite el Tik i roses, wh Ocean Song and caram d pin k calan sa bio sca ck bla s, ber rie da hli as, dark privet green seeded ing am ara nthus and cyn ia wit h red ha ng euc aly ptu s. ď Ś
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s a t r t n o c r e v e cl
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Ca ra m el blue h T ik i roses a n yd ra ng d peac ea, hC a nd c lu ste re d p e ac h hy p e u mbia roses r ic u m , e r y ng iu GIF TS wh irl a d a rk p m id m. SC s r iv H s e e de d of te n s t he m i x t u N UC K S F L O et b e r r ies e uc a ly re w it pt u s le R a v a r ie IST A h du s a g at e d ND ty ba se a ves a nd roll s a s pid m il le r a nd bove a plu m s ist r a le at in w a r a p. ď Ś v e s a s
tem
s p i l u t g n tp i
Hot orange tulips, hot pink ranunculus and Garnet Glow mini callas turn eyes to a gracious WALTER KNOLL FLORIST bouquet beholden to spring thinking. Monte Carlo hydrangea, seeded eucalyptus and dusty miller add a green glow. ď Ś
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t h g i r b e n i h s us n
Cream-colored hydrangeas set up a sunny dynamic in a MEXICO ROAD FLORIST bouquet. Mini callas, tulips and spray roses – all in yellow – with variegated ti leaves padded above flower stems forecast a bright future for the bride and groom.
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T L FL OR IS R K NOL E eT v L e A ch W e y e m e nt b y ens, wa x g re n g a a c rr tr ti a o is An of e x lded a spid ing blend rn a nd fo le ve ron ic a fe is a st ri k rd o pu rp pod s, sw e rs a nd ri a , lotu s p w rap ck fe ath nd bu rl a co a a e P rs lo co l le aves. ra tu the n a -hold. pu nct u ate uquet ea sy to be o b e th s m a ke
WA LT E R K NOL L F L OR IS T ig bouque t w n ites anot it h her C ra sped ia ba a bu rst of su n flow er s. Ye llow ll s, solidago (golden rod) ta ke a su n n and ya rrow y cue am id h igh lights fern and se of green sw eded euca ly ord pt us. T h ic k upper stem tw ine w raps s of th is su n ny bouque t.
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Fo r a la s t e m b e ll is in g b ouque t , F OR E V he s t r u ER RO e w it h de SE S ta il s t h a -to -f re s h w o o d e n f lo t b t inue to e come a wers kee psa k g at he r a e a nd c tt a fter t h on e wedd in ent ion a s we ll a s me m g. or ies
t e e w s & t os f
L arge Ju li et rose s, the fi rst re leased in conte mp or the Dav id ar y color Au st in li n sett ing in e, de ve lop a M E X ICO a ga rden R OA D F L L ea fy bupl OR IS T bo eu ru m gree uquet . ns, sm al l w sa la l leaves h ite sc abiosa and long fe , sh iny rn stems ca vibe w it h sw pt u re an in eet soph isti form al cation. ď Ś
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A relaxed bouquet by LAWRENCE FLORIST combines white hydrandeas, chocolate-colored cymbidium orchids and copper Leonidis roses. More glory comes from feathery wheat, contrasting purple caspia and looped lily grass.
Th is joy ful color pal ett e by LAWR EN CE FL OR IST combines yel low roses, red spr ay roses, pur ple cosmos and ora nge hypericum ber rie s. She lf tw ine loosely wr aps aroun d stems into a bow ove r ribbon wh ich match es contra sting pur ple cos mos in the bouquet.
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Lawrence Florist
Congratulations on your WEdding EngagEmEnt! for your spECial day, sElECt
Wedding FloWers & Accessories
est. 1961
ExCEEding our bridE's ExpECtations for 50 yEars free Toss Bouquet (a $30 value) with your wedding flower order Call 636-724-9050 for your free Consultation. 927 North Second Street St. Charles, MO. 63301 www.lawrenceflorist.biz • www.lawrenceflorist.net
You deserve the best flowers, the best design and the best price! 844.441.5629 info@bridalbokay.com
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celeb ra tio n
Photos by Salvatore Cincotta
POPtions! gourmet popcorn is the perfect
www.stlouisflorist.com
snack!
Planning your wedding is a very exciting time and we would love to be a part of it! Our floral design team creates unique designs to fit every bride.
3300 Watson Rd. 314-781-1717
Free Wedding Consultations
Popcorn Bars Bridal Showers Wedding Receptions Party Favors
For Ever Roses Photos-by-Shell
&
We proudly Top Our Pop with
636.812.2385 www.photos-by-shell.com • hobbygirls@yahoo.com
636-575-1996
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FLOWERS COLORS
Say it with
FLOWERS
BLOOMS TREAT THE EYE WITH COLORFUL SUPPORT. A florist builds a bouquet by tone, texture and style to provide a colorful look you love. Ask which hues of these flowers are available when. In-season blooms generally can be found to match both style and budget, but even unusual requests can be filled because of worldwide availability. The list reflects old favorites, perennial blossoms and newer blooms. This bouquet’s soft country look combines old-fashioned garden blooms. PALETTE BLOCKS INDICATE COLORS OFTEN AVAILABLE BY FLOWER
Amaryllis
Cosmos
Iris
Seeded eucalyptus
Anemone
Craspedia (billy balls)
Jasmine
Snowdrop
Apple blossom
Daffodil
Lilac
Stargazer lily
Aster
Dahlia
Lily of the valley
Sunflower
Baby’s breath
Delphinium
Leucadrendron
Sweet pea
Bachelor’s button
Dusty Miller
Orchid
Tuberose
Bluebell
Forget-me-not
Pansy
Tulip
Buttercup
Forsythia
Paperwhite
Veronica
Calla lily
Freesia
Peony
Viburnum
Carnation
Fuchsia
Poppy
Violet
Cherry blossom
Gardenia
Protea
Winterberry
Chinese lantern
Gerbera daisy
Queen Anne’s lace
Yarrow
Chrysanthemum
Hyacinth
Ranunculus
Zinnia
Clematis
Hydrangea
Rose
Hypericum berries
Scabiosa
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FLOWERS LEARN LINGO
FLORAL TERMS TO KNOW Brushing up on flower terminology is wise before visiting florists. Knowledge of the topic earns confidence to talk about your wedding’s floral future. It also enables you to better choose what will suit your day, whether you define details or simply let professional hands perform the task. Not the least, it helps ensure your money is spent in the best way possible. Here are florist terms ‒ some common, others less recognized ‒ that may be helpful. BOUQUET Dense bunch of blooms held in a bouquet holder, wired or tied with ribbon. Especially popular are hand-tied bouquets which show flowers’ natural growth, tied with ribbon or fabric. CASCADE Flowers that descend below the main portion of a bouquet design. CRESCENT One full flower and a flowering stem wired together to form slender handle for holding in one hand.
A reception is memorable for the bridal couple. Creating a magical experience involves
and eye-catching. Taken home to eat afterward, they are not wasted after the party.
setting the scene with guest tables holding centerpieces that capture the wedding theme.
BEADS AND BAUBLES A vase or low-
There are many options to explore.
profile glass bowl filled with beads, shells, rocks or crystals is an easy dress-up. Decorative beads
GARDEN Centerpiece featuring wildflowers.
FLOWERS
NOSEGAY Small, round bouquet of densely packed flowers and fill. Biedermeier is a nosegay tightly arranged in concentric circles, each flower different in color. Smaller version is a “posy.”
CANDLES Inexpensive and beautiful, can-
ing cans, teapots, small birdcages, jars of locally
dles impart subtle glow. Candles of varying
gathered honey, flip-flops or other themed items
heights cast light on tables and make the room
make appropriate centerpieces. A carved pump-
OASIS Stable foam in bouquet holder or centerpiece that holds water to keep blooms fresh. POMANDER Flower-covered ball suspended from ribbon. It is often carried by child attendants or may hang loosely from a pole or pew.
Versatile floral selections are
paired with candles increase visual appeal.
available in myriad colors, fresh and silk.
THEMED OBJECTS Birdhouses, water-
look and feel more intimate. Placed on a mir-
kin or gourd fits a fall-timed wedding, while a
ror or silver cake platter, flamelight reflects and
sand pail completes the look of a warm-weather
disperses more.
wedding. Framed photos invite attention.
EDIBLE IDEAS Centerpieces doubling as
BALLOONS Don’t underestimate the power
favors cut expense and work in creation and
of a billowing balloon bouquet centering
PRESENTATION (pageant bouquet) Bunch of long-stemmed flowers cradled in bride’s arms.
cleanup. A basket with tulle-wrapped clusters
a table. Often lower in price than flowers,
of Jordan almonds or decorated boxes of cookies
balloons quickly fill a space.
TOPIARY Flowers/greens trimmed in geometric shape.
to take them home. Guests will quickly spot a
WILDFLOWERS Rather than using exotic
tall vase filled with candy-covered chocolates
flowers, do-it-yourself couples can place whim-
TOSSING Smaller copy of bride’s bouquet to use in bouquet toss.
and be ready to fill little bags of sweet treats
sical bunches of wildflowers and fresh herbs into
when the party closes down.
vases on each table. Succulents, needing little
TRELLIS Woven frame used as screen or support for climbing plants and flowers. TUSSY MUSSY A small, metallic holder to carry a posy.
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stacked in the center of each table invite guests
water, can be prepared in advance.
FRUIT Lemons, limes, apples, oranges and other pieces of fruit are cost-friendly. Placed in a basket or clear vase, their colors are vibrant
Table arrangements connect your theme. StLouisBestBridal.com Bridal Marketplace
FLOWERS DAY’S DESIGNER
How to hire a florist 7 WAYS TO BLOSSOM AT YOUR OWN WEDDING. 1. CHECK SOURCES
4. BRING LISTS AND PHOTOS
Come
florist recommends sourcing them. Check on
to a wedding with flowers you adore, ask about
prepared to meet a florist amid his/her
flowers already displayed, such as for a holiday,
the florist. Get referrals from people whose
production. List who should have flowers.
that would provide a free backdrop.
wedding flowers have pleased them. They will
Photograph ceremony and reception loca-
be flattered!
tions from different angles. Imagine flowers
6. COMPARE PRICES AND IDEAS
on other props like a cake. Photos or swatches
Reserve a florist at least three to six months
of gowns and dresses develop colorful details.
before the ceremony, allowing longer time for
If you have been
2. DO A LITTLE RESEARCH
Bridal
and gardening magazines provide a feel or
a popular florist or in-season wedding of May
create a look. Cut out and collect floral images
5. ASK QUESTIONS
you like. Check the many bouquet designs in
petence provides a major part of your look or
A florist’s com-
through October.
theme, so you should feel comfortable asking
7. WRITE DOWN EVERYTHING
anything. Photos of what the florist did at
contract details specifics: date, time, location
similar ceremony and reception sites help you
of ceremony and reception; lists items the
If there is a flower you love, share the idea, but
evaluate whether a provider’s bridal perspec-
florist will supply, including color, type and
be open to seasonal ideas which bloom closer
tive matches yours. Ask to drop by or to see
cost; alternate blooms, if they would be neces-
to budget. A florist who brainstorms ideas and
a cooler with bouquets and centerpieces ready
sary; arrival times for setup at ceremony and
realistically helps get the most for your money
for a wedding. Be specific about which decora-
reception; total cost and payment terms, plus
wants your business.
tions – aisle runner, trellis, centerpieces, potted
tax, delivery and other fees; cancellation and
plants perhaps – may cost extra and where a
refund policy.
St. Louis’ Best Bridal magazine.
PAGE
80
3. KNOW YOUR FLORAL BUDGET
Tip: Hands-on service always costs more.
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PA RT Y PL A N S RECEPTION VENUES
ST. LOUIS' BEST BRIDAL
RECEPTION DIRECTORY FORM LIST OF TOP 10 SITES FROM 200 LOCATIONS
{
SEPARATE SELECTIONS FOR MISSOURI AND ILLINOIS
What you’ll find by location: name, address and phone number, the number of guests accommodated, room rental fee, outdoor party area, on-site catering availability, on-site ceremony listing, lodging preferences, plus loads of additional information in the magazine and beyond.
DECIDE WHAT IS IMPORTANT More detailed information on various reception sites nestles conveniently within these listings. Look beyond the obvious for an available location. A special note: St. Louis’ Best Bridal businesses are indicated with heart-framed page numbers for more information. Photograph, above, on location at Orlando's Event Center, South County
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}
DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE Timing is everything. Once this useful directory narrows reception site choices for you, make that initial call. Staff members at the facilities can answer questions and assist with wedding-day plans. Early arrangements ease the task, so you can sit back and expect the best resources to complement your special day.
CREATE A PERFECT WEDDING RECEPTION What now? Turn the page. Match your dreams to what local reception sites provide. Use this helpful resource to help you make all the arrangements. View details, locations, photos and much more StLouisBestBridal.com Bridal Marketplace
Timeless tradition With its beautiful Clubhouse, spectacular views and professional staff, Forest Hills is the perfect setting for your wedding day. Whether your guest list is small or large, Forest Hills will strive to exceed your expectations while providing an elegant and inviting setting for your guests. Our newly renovated Crystal Ballroom boasts upscale décor, stunning golf course views and opens to a landscape flagstone terrace for al fresco cocktail options. The quality and value we provide ensures your wedding is a dream made to order. Our professional Wedding Coordinator will be happy to assist you from start to finish, ensuring your day will be a tremendous success. From the design of your reception to expert execution, Forest Hills is your one-stop shop. Chef Lute and his creative culinary team will dazzle your taste buds with delicious cuisine while our professional service staff focuses on the comfort and enjoyment of each of your guests. As one of West County’s premier locations for over 50 years, we offer a unique and picturesque venue that will have you and your guests talking for years to come.
FOREST HILLS COUNTRY CLUB
{ 36 Forest Club Drive, Chesterfield, MO 63005 ✤ (636) 227-5030 ✤ www.foresthillscc.net }
MISSOURI LOCATIONS FOLLOW THE HEARTS FOR MORE INFORMATION. ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
PAGE NUMBER
9th Street Abbey 314 621-9598 250 Y Y Y Y Y 1808 S 9th St., St. Louis All Occasions Banquet Centers 111 Compass Point Drive, St. Charles
636-946-1011 300 N N Y Y Y
Ambruster Great Hall 6333 Clayton Road, Ste. 201, Clayton
314-863-1301 170
Ameristar Casino Resort Spa One Ameristar Blvd., St. Charles Andre’s Banquet Facilities - South 4254 Telegraph Road, St. Louis
Y
N
Y
Y
N
36
636-940-4300 640 N Y Y Y Y 314-894-2622 350
N
N
Y
Y
N
24
Andre’s Banquet Facilities - West 211 S. Old Hwy. 141, Fenton
314-691-5650 325
Y
N
Y
Y
N
24
Andre’s @ Sunset Hills Golf Course 13366 West Watson Road, Sunset Hills
314-660-0090 250
N
N
Y
Y
N
24
Andre’s @ Fox Run Golf Club 1 Putt Lane, Eureka
314-815-0011 236
Y
N
Y
Y
N
24
Avalon Hall at Overlook Farm 901 South Hwy. 79, Clarksville
573-2423838 400
Y
N
Y
Y
N
24
Ballwin Golf Club 333 Holloway Road, Ballwin
636-207-2355 220 Y Y N N N
Banquet Center of the Little Hills 111 Transit St., St. Charles
314-894-2622 300 Y Y Y Y Y
Barnett on Washington 3207 Washington Ave., St. Louis
844-462-2763 200
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Busch Stadium Special Events 700 Clark St., St. Louis
314-345-9357 1200
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
SPRING & SUMMER 2016
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
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Let us make your wedding dreams a reality! Experience authentic hospitality at Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch. Your wedding dreams will become a reality with our top notch service and unprecedented space. We truly believe the venue should be as unforgettable as the day. Two large ballrooms are perfect for lavish affairs while our Park View room is perfect for intimate events, with French windows overlooking the Gateway Arch. Looking for a unique view for your wedding guests? Our Gateway East Ballroom and Terrace features an indoor/outdoor space with a spectacular view of the Gateway Arch, including a light up dance floor. Our wedding event manager will ensure that all of the big decisions have been made and all of the little details are attended to. Your guests will appreciate the convenience of our downtown location, as well as the exceptional amenities that only a Hyatt can offer. Whether you are arranging an intimate bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, engagement party, wedding room block, ceremony or reception for 10 to 1,000, our dedicated staff is ready to execute your special day flawlessly. To take a tour of our wedding venues or for more information, contact us today.
HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS AT THE ARCH
{ 315 Chestnut Street, St. Louis, MO
63102 ✤ (314) 655-1234 ✤ jessica.schuette@hyatt.com ✤ stlouisarch.hyatt.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
PHONE NUMBER
The Bevo Mill, 4749 Gravois Road, St. Louis Big Cedar Lodge 612 Devilʹs Pool Road, Ridgedale
ASK
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
314-832-6776 200
Y
N
Y
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
N
PAGE NUMBER
N
1-800-225-6343 500 Y Y Y Y Y
Bistro at Grand Center 3536 Washington Ave., St. Louis
314-534-3363
80
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Bogey Hills Country Club 1120 Country Club Road, St. Charles
636-946-6250
575
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Butterfly House 15193 Olive Blvd, Chesterfield
636-530-0076 160
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Does the venue allow only a single caterer? Does a preferred caterer list close the door to someone you prefer?
Café DeMenil 3352 DeMenil Place, St. Louis
314-771-5829
250
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Camden On The Lake 2359 Bittersweet Road, Lake Ozarks
573-365-5620
500
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
636-220-8989 250
Y
N
Y
Y
N
314-241-5757
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Candicci´s Receptions 100 Holloway Road, Ballwin The Caramel Room 1600 North Broadway, St. Louis
94
SEATED CAPACITY
325
The Carriage House at DeMenil 1 Putt Lane, Eureka
314-771-5828 180
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
The Carriage House at Fox Run 1 Putt Lane, Eureka
314-894-2180 250
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Casa Loma Ballroom 3354 Iowa Ave., St. Louis
314-664-8000 850
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Catering to You Banquet Center 12775 New Halls Ferry Road, St. Louis
314-839-3244 225 Y N Y Y Y
The Cedars, 939 Lebanon Drive, St. Louis
314-241-8248 500
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Y
N
Y
N
N
4
Hilton St. Louis Frontenac Every bride should have the wedding of her dreams. Whether she has imagined every detail as a little girl or is just beginning to imagine, every decision is important. The gown, the music, the flowers, along with hundreds of other details should be perfect. Finding the right venue ties all the details together seamlessly! The Hilton St. Louis Frontenac is that venue. Personal relationships with the bride and her family are extremely important. We have an experienced catering staff that works with the family from start to finish. Our wedding families remain with the same catering sales manager from the first meeting until the day actually arrives. This ensures a perfect reception. The Hilton St. Louis Frontenac offers specifically tailored wedding packages to help with your reception choices. Packages include four hours of open bar, one hour of white-gloved butler passed hors d’oeuvres, a champagne toast, a plated dinner or buffet and wine with dinner. In addition, the wedding cake is served with a signature Hilton chocolate ice cream truffle. Our packages also offer the bride and groom a complimentary suite on their wedding night as well as a complimentary guest room for the bride’s parents. Out-of-town guests stay at the hotel at a preferred guest rate. Whatever options the bride chooses, the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac’s goal is to create lasting memories and a perfect wedding reception.
HILTON ST. LOUIS FRONTENAC
{ 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63131 ✤ (314) 993-1100 ✤ www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
Cedar Lake Cellars 11008 Schreckengast Road, Wright City Cedar Creek Resort 1401 Olive Road, New Haven
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
636-745-9500 500
Y
Y
Y
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
PAGE NUMBER
Y N
855-778-7222 300 - Y Y Y Y
Chandler Hill Vineyards 596 Defiance Road, Defiance
636-798-2675 275
Charlie Gitto’s “On the Hill” 5226 Shaw Ave., St. Louis
314-772-8898 100 N N N N N
Charlie Gitto’s at Harrah’s Casino 777 Casino Center Drive, St. Louis
314-770-7663 60 - N Y N Y
The Chase Park Plaza, 212 N. Kingshighway, St. Louis
314-633-3050 1,300 Y Y Y Y Y
Chimney Rock Guest House #1 Chimney Roack Road, Imperial
636-464-3999 200 Y Y Y Y Y
The Christy Banquet Centers, 5856 Christy Blvd., St. Louis
314-352-4800 350
Y
N
Y
N
N
The Christy Banquet Centers, 9000 Veterans Memorial Parkway, O’Fallon
636-240-7772 500
Y
N
Y
N
N
City Museum 701 North 15th St., St. Louis
314-231-1009 300 Y Y N N N
Comfort Inn - Airport 9600 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis
314-427-7600 100 Y N Y N Y
The Conservatory 1001 South Main St., St. Charles
636-947-0414
100
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
What items may a family bring in – candy bar, cookies, pies, cakes?
Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis 3750 Washington Blvd., St. Louis
314-535-0770 175
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
The Coronado Ballroom 3701 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis
314-367-4848 350
N
N
Y
Y
N
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The Heart of St. Charles enchants brides for over 20 years You will simply love having your wedding reception at the newly remodeled Heart of St. Charles. With a panoramic view like no other, high upon the bluffs of the Missouri River, we are as beautiful inside with crystal chandeliers and centerpieces as the view is on the outside through a wall of windows. The combined experience of 50 years by Sheri, Kristen, Karen will make your event a spectacular one. Brides have personally chosen the ballrooms at Heart of St. Charles for their elegant atmosphere and excellent service for 20 years. We are honored that so many St. Louis brides continue to trust the Heart of St. Charles with their wedding. Our complete services now include ministers who can perform the ceremony. We have also opened a beautiful Chapel to hold your ceremony - the Old Stone Chapel. We look forward to many more years of planning St. Louis weddings and other types of events, from business meetings to school functions. Come visit the Heart of St. Charles and see why we are a St. Louis favorite. “We love what we do and so will you!”
THE HEART OF ST. CHARLES
{ 1410 S. Fifth Street, St. Charles, MO 63301 ✤ (636) 947-8270 ✤ www.hscballrooms.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
Crescent Farms Golf Club 745 Lewis Road, Crescent
636-938-6202 200
Crowne Plaza Hotel 200 N. Fourth St., St. Louis
314-436-8051 350 Y Y Y Y Y
Crowne Plaza Clayton 7750 Carondelet Ave., Clayton
314-727-7434 600 Y N Y N Y
Dave & Busters 13857 Riverport Drive, St. Louis
314-209-8015 2,000
Y
Y
Y
N
PAGE NUMBER
N
Y
N
Y
N
N
Y
N
Y
N
N
Is the facility the only provider of beverages, particularly alcohol? Debonaire Banquet and Conference Center 3515 N. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Ann
314-291-3515 250
DoubleTree Hotel & Conference Ctr. 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield
636-532-5000 450 N Y Y Y Y
DoubleTree Hotel - Wesport 1973 Craigshire Road, St. Louis
314-212-2110 450 N Y Y Y Y
Drury Inn Union Station - St, Louis 201 South 20th St., St. Louis
314-231-3900 25 Y N Y Y Y
Drury Inn & Suites Convention Ctr. - St. Louis 711 N. Broadway, St. Louis
314-231-8100 70 Y N Y Y Y
Drury Inn & Suites Forest Park - St. Louis 2111 Sulpher Ave., St. Louis
314-646-0770 220 N Y Y Y Y
Drury Plaza Hotel - Chesterfield 355 Chesterfield Center East, St. Louis
636-532-3300 160
Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch 2 South Fourth St., St. Louis
314-231-3003 300 Y N Y Y Y
Y
N
N
Y
Y
Embassy Suites Hotel & Spa 636-946-5544 1940 Y N Y N Y Two Convention Center Plaza, St. Charles Embassy Suites Hotel - St. Louis Airport 11237 Lone Eagle Drive, Bridgeton 96
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
314-739-8929 250 Y N Y N Y
Impressive social events and weddings in Wildwood A boutique hotel just west of St. Louis, The Wildwood Hotel offers more than 5,300 square-feet of ballroom and banquet space for social events with up to 300 attendees. Choose from the 5,350 square-foot Wildwood Ballroom or book the popular Augusta Room featuring 3,307 square feet of renovated space and access to a grand balcony overlooking the main floor and elegant banquet area. We’re ready to help write the next chapter in your love story! Our charming hotel and event space offers custom wedding packages, on-site event coordinators, indoor ceremony and reception spaces, audiovisual equipment rentals and group rates for wedding guests. From the moment you and your fiancée sit down with wedding planners to the moment you depart for your honeymoon, your big day will receive the detailed attention it deserves. Our experienced staff will tailor assistance to fit the amount of planning you prefer. Advice may include theme, colors, flowers, photography, reception layout and menus. Most importantly, our day-of coordination and supervision lets you enjoy the wedding without vendor interruptions or scheduling concerns. After the ceremony, relax with your new spouse in one of our luxurious bridal suites and discuss your extraordinary day together.
THE WILDWOOD HOTEL
{ 2801 Fountain Place, Wildwood, MO
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
63040 ✤ (636) 733-9100 ✤ www.thewildwoodhotel.com }
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
Favazza’s Rose of the Hill 2300 Edwards St., St. Louis
314-772-4454 300
Y
N
Y
N
N
Space 15, Jim Edmonds 1900 Locust St., St. Louis
314-588-8899 250
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Forest Hills Country Club 36 Forest Club Dr., Chesterfield
636-227-5030 300
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Foundry Art Centre 520 N. Main St., St. Charles
636-225-0270 350 Y N N Y N
Fox Theatre 527 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis
314-531-9999 370 Y Y Y Y Y
The Franklin Room, 816 Allen Ave., St. Louis
314-664-7706 300
Friends A Meeting Place 716 N Compton Ave., St. Louis
314-535-5800 200 Y N N Y N
N
N
Y
Y
N
PAGE NUMBER
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How does a location switch from ceremony to reception? Where do guests go and what can they do? Is this a regular practice? The Gardens Malmaison 3519 St. Albans Road, St. Albans
636-458-0313 245 Y Y Y Y Y
The Gateway Arch 11 4th St., St. Louis
314-655-1613 500 Y Y N Y N
Genesis Banquet & Catering 2651 Telegraph Road, St. Louis
314-894-7073 450
Y
N
-
N
N
Giovanni’s on The Hill 5201 Shaw Ave., St. Louis
314-772-5958 120
N
N
Y
N
N
Giuseppe’s 4141 South Grand Blvd., St. Louis
314-832-3779 120
Y
N
Y
N
N
Grand Opera House Banquet Ctr. 311 N Main St., St. Charles
314-406-3783 200
N
N
Y
Y
N
Graphic Arts Banquet Center 314-427-6771 250 105 Progress Parkway, St. Louis
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
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Elegant wine country weddings Hermann Hill Weddings is positioned high atop a bluff overlooking the Missouri River in Hermann wine country. Aside from stunning photography opportunities, we offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony options. Couples can choose from our Chapel, Gazebo, or River Bluff location. All views feature gorgeous angles of the river and countryside. Our reception Pavilion provides an outdoor feel with its wall of windows. Guests will enjoy their dinner while watching the sunset in the comfort of a climate controlled atmosphere. Other picturesque locations include our waterfall garden, woodland personal chapel, and celebration point. At dusk, the sunset is replaced by torches of light that illuminate walkways, inviting guests to further enjoy the evening. All packages include: two wedding coordinators, an officiant, planning sessions, a private Chef, a signature Champagne Toast, your honeymoon night’s stay in a River Bluff cottage, and many additional perks.
HERMANN HILL WEDDINGS
{ 165 Highway 100 East, Hermann, MO 65041 ✤ (314) 550-4759 ✤ www.hermannhill.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
PHONE NUMBER
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
PAGE NUMBER
Hard Rock Cafe St. Louis 1820 Market St. Suite 450, St. Louis
314-621-7625 336 - Y Y Y Y 33
Heart of St. Charles 1410 S. 5th St., St. Charles
636-947-8270 1,000 - N Y Y Y 16
Hermann Hill 165 E Highway 100, Hermann
314-550-4759 300
Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark 1 S. Broadway, St. Louis
314-421-1776 650 Y N Y Y Y
Hilton St. Louis Airport 10330 Natural Bridge Rd., St. Louis
314-824-1665 600 N N Y Y Y
Hilton St. Louis Frontenac 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Frontenac
314-993-1100 500 N N Y Y Y 11 130
Holiday Inn — St. Louis Airport 4505 Woodson Rd., Bridgeton
314-427-4700 200 Y N Y Y Y
Holiday Inn Airport West — Earth City 3400 Rider Trail South, St. Louis
314-291-6800 300 Y N Y Y Y 120
Holiday Inn — Forest Park 5915 Wilson Ave., St. Louis
314-645-0700 80
Holiday Inn Select - St. Louis Downtown 811 N. 9th St., St. Louis
314-421-4000 400 Y N Y Y Y
Holiday Inn — South County Ctr. 6921 S. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis
314-892-3600 320 N N Y Y Y
Holiday Inn St. Louis Airport - Riverport 10709 Watson Road, St. Louis
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
IFC
N
1-800-652-3705 450 Y N Y Y Y
Holiday Inn Six Flags I-44 at Allenton
636-938-6661 250 N Y Y Y Y
Holiday Inn Southwest - Route 66 10709 Watson Road, St. Louis
314-298-3400 400 N N Y Y Y 30
Hollywood Casino 777 Casino Center Dr., Maryland Heights 98
SEATED CAPACITY
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
314-770-8100 250 Y N Y Y Y
Congratulations on your upcoming event Andre’s has been serving the St. Louis area since 1980, helping coordinate and celebrate thousands of wedding receptions, anniversaries, reunions, school and company banquets, retirement parties and rehearsal dinners. Andre’s staff takes great pride in providing excellent customer service, food and atmosphere to our clients. We are the only “one-stop shop” in the country, providing tuxedos, invitations, photographers, florist, DJs, hotel accommodations and wedding day transportation. Andre’s has 4 locations to accommodate the St. Louis and Jefferson County areas, as well as 8 custom catering vans to bring the party to you. All locations are decorated and comparable to hotel luxury. Accommodations are available from 20 to 500 guests in-house and 50 to 2,000 for off-premise events.
ANDRE’S BANQUET FACILITIES
{ Now 4 locations in St. Louis and Jefferson County ✤ (314) 894-2622 ✤ www.andresbanquet.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
PAGE NUMBER
Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch 315 Chestnut St., St. Louis
314-342-4655 2,000 Y Y Y Y Y 37
Innsbrook Resort & Conference Center 1 Aspen Circle, Innsbrook
636-928-3366 250 Y Y Y Y Y 21
Jewel Box Forest Park, St. Louis
314-531-0080 160 Y Y N Y N
Kemp Auto Museum 636-537-1718 800 16955 Chesterfield Airport Rd., Chesterfield
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Kenrick Banquet Hall 4324 Weber Rd., St. Louis
314-652-2837 350
Y
N
Y
N
N
Landings at Spirit Golf Club 180 N. Eatherton Rd., Chesterfield
636-728-1927 300 - Y Y Y Y 42
Landry’s Seafood House 350 St. Louis Union Station, St. Louis
314-231-4040 60 Y N Y N Y
Larimore House Plantation, The 11475 Lilac Ave., St. Louis
314-868-8009 250
Le Chateau 10405 Clayton Rd., St. Louis
314-991-6700 250 Y N Y Y Y 17
Lemp Grand Hall 1817 Cherokee Road, St. Louis
314-664-6668 300 Y Y Y Y Y
Lemp Mansion 3322 DeMenil Place, St. Louis
314-664-8024 260 Y Y Y Y Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Are times and locations available for pictures or must they be staged separately outside contracted hours? The Links at Dardenne, 7000 Brassel Dr., O’Fallon
800-978-5709 150
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
LiUNA Event Center 4532 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Sunset Hills
314-226-1010 350
-
N
Y
-
N
The Lodge of Des Peres, 1050 Des Peres Rd., Des Peres
314-835-6150 165 N N N Y N
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An amazing ceremony, a breathtaking reception, a lifelong memory The sophisticated staff at the Saint Charles Convention Center is here to ensure your day will be flawless. With our elegant cuisine, professional services, and exquisite ambiance ... we promise to make your day absolutely perfect! Whether you are planning an intimate wedding reception for 50 people or a larger celebration with up to 2,000 guests, we can accommodate your needs. The Saint Charles Convention Center offers an elegant 16,200-square-foot Grand Ballroom, a 6,025-square-foot Junior Ballroom and a 27,600-square-foot space that can be carpeted and draped to create the Saint Charles Ballroom. We also provide in-house catering, on-site audiovisual, staging, decor and a dedicated and experienced event management and catering staff to ensure the success of your wedding. The Saint Charles Convention Center has the extensive experience and resources to execute the perfectly catered event, and our wedding packages allow you to customize a menu to fit your budget. We are connected to the award-winning 296-all suite Embassy Suites Hotel to conveniently accommodate your bridal party and guests and are located along Highway 70 just 10 minutes from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport.
SAINT CHARLES CONVENTION CENTER
{ 1 Convention Center Plaza, St. Charles, MO 63303 ✤ (636) 669-3000 ✤ www.stcharlesconventioncenter.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
100
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
PAGE NUMBER
Lodge at Grant’s Trail 4398 Hoffmeister Ave., St. Louis
314-638-3340 80 N Y Y Y Y 48
Lodge of The Four Seasons 315 Lodge of Four Seasons Dr., Lake Ozark
800-843-5253 1,200 Y Y Y Y Y
Lumen Private Events Space 2201 Locust St., St. Louis
314-241-5757 300
Lumiére Place Casino and Hotel 999 N. 2nd St., St. Louis
314-881-7777 350 Y N Y Y Y
N
N
Y
Y
N
Is there a Plan B in bad weather? When is a decision made? If no tent or indoor area is provided, is a source recommended? Mad Art Gallery 2727 S. 12th St., St. Louis
314-771-8230 250
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
The Magic House 516 South Kirkwood, St. Louis
314-822-8900 500
Y
N
N
Y
Y
Maggiano’s Little Italy #2 The Blvd., Richmond Heights
314-824-2410
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Magic Chef Mansion 3400 Russell. St. Louis
314-361-4411 200 Y N N Y N
The Mahler Ballroom 4915 Washington Ave. St. Louis
314-664-3400 100 Y Y N Y N
Marriott St. Louis Airport 10700 Pear Tree Lane, St. Louis
314-423-9700 500 N Y Y Y Y
Marriott St. Louis West 660 Maryville Center Drive, St. Louis
314-878-2747 1,045 Y Y Y Y Y
Memorial Hall (Blanchette) 1900 West Randolph Ave., St. Charles
636-723-1937 120 Y Y N Y N
Millenium Hotel St. Louis 200 S. 4th St., St. Louis
314-516-8121 2,800 Y Y Y Y Y
Missouri Athletic Club 405 Washington Avenue, St. Louis
314-539-4470 400 Y N Y Y Y
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From charming countryside to lakeside elegance Located less than an hour west of St. Louis, Innsbrook Resort offers a world of possibilities to turn your special day into a storybook wedding. With overnight accommodations, golf, tennis and beaches, Innsbrook is a full-service resort and wedding destination for your ceremony and reception. Pair this stunning setting with our professional service staff and you’ve got the makings of your fairytale wedding. The warm ambiance, stunning views and scenic landscape combine to create an impressive backdrop for your special day. Whether you’re dreaming of a small, intimate gathering or a lavish reception for several hundred, Innsbrook offers a variety of ceremony and reception options. Lake Aspen is the stunning background to our waterfront patio with wide-open views and plenty of space. Break down the barriers between you and nature by having your ceremony on the Oak Lawn, a serene, tree-lined meadow with a picturesque gazebo. Those looking for a rustic chic ceremony and reception can exchange vows at Innsbrook’s newest event venue, the Barnyard Patio. At Innsbrook we understand that meals are events in themselves and an important part of your experience. From appetizers and buffets to plated entrees and delectable desserts, our professional staff will make your dining experience one of the most memorable parts of your special day. The possibilities are endless at Innsbrook!
INNSBROOK RESORT
{ 1 Aspen Circle, Innsbrook, MO 63390 ✤ (636) 928-3366 ext. 884 ✤ weddings@innsbrook-resort.com ✤ www.innsbrook-resort.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
PAGE NUMBER
Missouri Bluffs Golf Club #18 Research Park Circle, St. Charles
636-939-6494 150
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Missouri Botanical Garden 4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis
636-733-2339 200
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Missouri History Museum 5700 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis
314-454-3154 300
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Morgan Street Brewery 721 N. 2nd St., St. Louis
314-231-9970 135 Y Y Y Y Y
Mount Pleasant Estate 5634 High St., Augusta
636-482-9463 250
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
New Towne at St. Charles 3331-2 Rue Royale, St. Charles
636-940-0457 250
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Norman K Probstein Golf Course 6141 Lagoon Drive, St. Louis
314-367-1337 250
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Old Hickory Golf Club #1 Dye Club Dr., St. Peters
636-477-8960 550
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Old Stone Chapel 1106 S. Main St., St. Charles
636-947-8270 200 - Y Y Y Y 16
Oliva ... On The Hill 4915 Daggett Ave., St. Louis
314-961-7588 100
52
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
314-638-6660 1000
N
N
Y
Y
N
48
Orlandoʹs Event Centers, Maryland Heights 314-453-9000 600 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza
N
N
Y
Y
N
48
What is the distance between venues or to where guests might stay? Orlando´s Event Centers, South County 4300 Hoffmeister, St. Louis
Osage National Golf Resort 400 Osage Hills Road, Lake Ozark
866-365-1950 230 Y Y Y Y Y
Palladium St. Louis 1400 Park Place, St. Louis
314-799-8886 400
Y
Y
Y
Y
SPRING & SUMMER 2016
N
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Experience reception perfection™ We are a full-service wedding facility that handles most aspects of reception planning from inception to execution. Working with our clients, we assist them in selecting the details that will make their wedding day personal and unforgettable. From floral arrangements to photos and video, to food and beverage and music and entertainment, we are here every step of the way to make sure your dream wedding is realized. Stegton Regency Conference and Banquet Center helps over 250 couples a year plan their wedding reception. With over 35 years hosting weddings from 25 to 800 people, our reception hall can assist you in achieving your dream. Our inclusive packages are designed to take the stress out of planning, yet still allow you numerous options to make the day your own.
TROTTER PHOTO
STEGTON REGENCY CONFERENCE & BANQUET CENTER
{ 1450 Wall Street, St. Charles, MO 63303 ✤ (636) 946-6860 ✤ www.stegton.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
102
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
Peabody Opera House 1400 Market St., St. Louis
314-622-2500 375
Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Union Station 2211 Market St., St. Louis
314-241-3200 300 N N Y Y Y
Pevely Farms Golf Club 400 Lewis Rd, Eureka
636-938-7000 150
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Point of View 720 Olive St., St. Louis
314-621-9598 225
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Y
N
Y
N
PAGE NUMBER
N
How convenient are restrooms? Is a coat check provided? Purser Center at Logan College, The 1851 Schoettler Rd., Chesterfield
Y Y N Y N 636-230-1181 400
Randall Gallery 999 North 13th St., St. Louis
314-231-4808 310
Renaissance St. Louis Grand Hotel 800 Washington Ave., St. Louis
314418-5820 250 Y N Y Y Y
Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel 9801 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis
314-429-1100 700 Y N Y Y Y 114
The Ritz-Carlton St. Louis, 100 Corondolet Plaza, St. Louis
314-863-6300 800 Y N Y Y Y
The Vineyards at Riverbend Chapel 4247 Old Hwy. 100, Washington
636-390-8600 300
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
River Bottom 112 Sidney St., St. Louis
314-621-9598 350
Y
N
Y
Y
N
River City Event Center and Casino 777 River City Casino Blvd., St. Louis
314-881-7800 800 Y N Y Y Y
Royale Orleans 2801 Telegraph Rd., St. Louis
314-487-7006 500
N
N
Y
Y
N
Saint Charles Convention Center One Convention Plaza, St. Charles
636-669-3000
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
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1,000
Y
Y
Y
Y
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71
13 160
Weddings and receptions - let the celebrating begin! From weddings to anniversaries, holiday parties to birthdays and everything in-between, Whitmoor Country Club, with its elegant clubhouse, lush golf course views and wonderful menu choices, offers you a superb location for all your celebrations. This is the place for festivities that your guests will remember forever. There is nothing quite like our club - a place that will offer you superb amenities and wonderful service when you hold a wedding or another special event or celebration. After walking into our Trophy Room, we can guarantee that you will want to book Whitmoor as the site for your special event. But beyond the beautiful dining rooms and golf courses, you’ll also find that our staff is efficient, gracious and friendly. We make planning your event a fun experience, and we take all the worry out of the details. At Whitmoor Country Club, your special day is our special day which means you will have our undivided attention when you hold a major event at our club. We have a convenient location, just a short distance from St. Louis and other surrounding communities. Call us today for a tour of our facilities and to discuss how we can create a fantastic event for you and your guests.
WHITMOOR COUNTRY CLUB
{ 1100 Whitmoor Drive, St. Charles, MO 63304 ✤ (636) 926-9622 ✤ www.whitmoorgolf.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
St. Louis Art Museum 1 Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis
314-655-5236 300
St. Louis Artists’ Guild and Gallery 2 Oak Knoll Park, Clayton
314-961-7588 110 Y Y N Y N
St. Louis Carousel at Faust Park 15185 Olive Blvd., Chesterfield
314-289-4424 250 Y Y N - N
St. Louis Hall of Fame Bar & Grill 342 Westport Plaza, Maryland Heights
314-439-0505 80
N
N
Y
N
N
St. Louis Science Center 5050 Oakland Ave., St. Louis
314-289-1410 600
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
St. Louis Union Station Marriott 1820 Market St., St. Louis
314-802-3400 1,350 Y N Y Y Y
St. Louis University Events 221 North Grand Blvd., St. Louis
314-977-6338 1,000
Y
N
Y
Y
N
St. Louis Zoo 1 Government Drive, St. Louis
314-646-4855 800
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
St. Peters Golf Course 200 Salt Lick Road #A, St. Peters,
636-397-2227 150
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Y
N
Y
N
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What does a site manager do when? Is this the person working out details? Savannah Grill 1622 Horseshoe Bend Pkwy, Lake Ozark
573-365-1777 000 N
Y
Y
Y
N
Savoy Banquet Center 119 S. Florissant Rd., Ferguson
314-521-4500 250
N
N
Y
Y
N
Schlafly Bottleworks 7260 Southwest Ave., Maplewood
314-241-2337 120
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Seven Gables Inn 26 N. Meramec Ave., Clayton
314-863-8400 100 - Y Y Y Y
Shalimar Plaza Hotel & Conference Center 636-937-0700 450 Y N Y Y Y 1200 Gannon Drive, Festus
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Lumen Private Event Space Lumen Private Event Space’s modern style, premium service and contemporary flair just stepped up the game! New silver Chiavari chairs, a stainless steel bar with stunning chandeliers and updated hardwood floors are just the beginning. No worries though, guests still awe over floor-to-ceiling windows and a state-of-the–art LED lighting system. Located in the Packard Lofts building, Lumen can host weddings for up to 200 guests with space for ceremonies as well. Lumen’s timeless-designed event space evokes the excitement weddings deserve. Easy to access from any direction and skirting the downtown St. Louis area, it provides a destination that astounds guests with style and spirit which translates into memorial photos that will become classic opportunities to share the occasion again and again in years to come. Executive Chef Nicolas Miller, who’s forte is farm-to-table and seasonal ingredients will fulfill every culinary desire.
LUMEN PRIVATE EVENT SPACE
{ 2201 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63103 ✤ Located in the Packard Lofts ✤ (314) 615-2480 ✤ www.lumenstl.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
The Sheldon Concert Hall & Ballroom, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis
314-533-9900 500
Sheraton Clayton Plaza Hotel 7730 Bonhomme Ave., Clayton
314-719-4302 300 Y Y Y Y Y
Y
N
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Who is responsible for food, serving, flower arrangement, furniture moving, leading participants like musicians to proper places? Sheraton St. Louis City Center Hotels & Suites 400 S. 14th St., St. Louis
314-231-5007 450 Y N Y Y Y
Sheraton Westport — Chalet Hotel St. Louis 314-878-1500 500 N N Y Y Y 191 Westport Plaza, St. Louis
104
Sheraton Westport Plaza Hotel St. Louis 900 Westport Plaza, St. Louis
314-878-1500 250 N N Y Y Y
Silver Oaks Chateau 1168 Hwy 100, Pacific
314-280-8890 300 Y Y Y Y Y
Soulard Preservation Hall 1921 N Ninth St., St. Louis
314-241-8181 200 Y Y N Y N
Spazio at Westport 12031 Lackland Road, St. Louis
314-576-0400 250 Y N Y N Y
Spirited Heart Banquet Center 1540 A Country Club Plaza, St. Charles
636-940-0459 230
Starlight Roof at the Chase 212 N. Kingshighway, St. Louis
314-633-3050 450 Y Y Y Y Y
Stegton Regency Banquet Center 1450 Wall St., St. Charles
636-946-6860 700 N N Y Y Y 55
Studio of St. Albans, The 454 Studio Road, St. Albans
636-458-0131 140 Y Y Y Y Y
Sunset 44 Bistro 118 W. Adams Ave., Kirkwood
314-965-6644 -
Y
N
Y
N
N
Sunset Lakes Banquet Center 13366 West Watson Road, Sappington
314-843-7811 300
Y
Y
Y
N
N
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
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Y
Y
Y
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Ces & Judy’s Catering – Dazzling events and delicious cuisine Ces & Judy’s Catering has been dazzling the St. Louis area with award-winning catering services and delicious cuisine for more than 30 years. Their newly renovated event space, Le Chateau, is the perfect fit for your wedding reception, rehearsal dinner, ceremony or cocktail hour, while an elegant ballroom can seat up to 250 guests for dinner service. As a preferred caterer to many venues in St. Louis, Ces & Judy’s team can travel to your event. Choose from endless menu options or let the team prepare a custom-proposal reflecting your individual style. When you go with Ces & Judy’s you will have access to your own event manager, who will guide you through the event planning process and serve as a resource for design, culinary and other wedding-related questions. Their goal is to help you achieve an event unique to you. At Le Chateau, or at your own perfect venue, their talented team of chefs and creatives will create a lasting memory your guests - and your tastebuds - won’t soon forget.
CES & JUDY'S CATERING
{ 10405 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO ✤ (314) 991-6700 ✤ www.cesandjudys.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
Talayna’s Receptions 68 Four Seasons Ctr., Chesterfield
314-469-6655 250
N
N
Y
Y
N
Third Degree Glass Factory 5200 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis,
636-367-4527 250
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Trigg Banquet Center 300 O’Fallon Plaza, O'Fallon
636-240-3288 450
N
N
Y
Y
N
University of Missouri - St. Louis I-70 & I-170, St. Louis
314-516-4324 Call
Y
N
Y
Y
N
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What does site rental include? Are chairs, tables, table covers, decorations, centerpieces, colored lighting and ambiance provided? Vance Vineyards & Winery 1522 Madison 212, Fredricktown
573-783-8800 100
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Villa Antonio Winery 3660 Linhorst, Hillsboro
636-475-5008 300
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Westin St. Louis, The 811 Spruce St., St. Louis
314-621-2000 275 N N Y Y Y
Wingheaven Country Club 7777 Wingheaven Blvd., O'Fallon
636-561-9464 250
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Whitmoor Country Club 1100 Whitmoor Drive, St. Charles
800-927-9622 500
Y
N
Y
N
N
60
Whittemore House at Washington University 314-935-5276 110 Y Y N Y N 6440 Forsyth, St. Louis Wildwood Hotel 2801 Fountain Place, Wildwood
636-733-9100 300
-
N
N
Y
Y
Windows On Washington 1601 Washington Ave., St. Louis
314-241-5555 350
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Worlds Fair Pavilion Forest Park, St. Louis
314-289-5344 500 Y Y N Y N
Xavier Grand Ballroom 3628 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis
314-427-6771 350
Y
N
Y
Y
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Feel the spirit at Landings at Spirit Golf Club From small to large ceremonies and receptions, Landings, nestled in the fertile Missouri River Valley, provides beautiful scenery and friendly coordination for your perfect day. The Landings is an 18-hole championship public golf course with cascading fairways and scenic greenery complete with rustic railroad tracks, golf carts and breathtaking sunsets for photography fun. Your ceremony can take place right on the lush course, followed by a beautiful indoor and/or outdoor reception seating up to 300 of your favorite people. We boast an amazing in-house chef at Landings, with an extensive array of options, from buffet packages to 3-course steak dinners to choose from, but what he really enjoys is customizing your favorite meal to completely cater to your perfect setting. Whatever your flavor, we will make it happen. Our complimentary wedding coordinator will be there to support you through all of your decisions, with help and suggestions to make planning easy, exciting and enjoyable. Landings at Spirit Golf Club is honored to be a part of making your special day all you have dreamt it to be! Please contact us today to reserve your date. Schedule a tour with us by July 31, 2016 and receive a gift certificate for one FREE round of golf!
LANDINGS AT SPIRIT GOLF CLUB
{ 180 N. Eatherton Road, Chesterfield, MO 63005 ✤ (636) 728-1927 ✤ www.landingsatspirit.com ✤ weddings@landingsatspirit.com }
From this day forward ... happily ever after With over 18,000 square feet of newly renovated banquet facilities, the Holiday Inn SW - Route 66 awaits transformation into the reception venue you have always dreamed. Elegant and finely appointed, our Cadillac Ballroom accommodates up to 400 guests. Designed for intimate receptions, our Riviera Ballroom accommodates up to 130 guests. Our magnificent space, exceptional culinary team and our uncompromising level of service will create an event that you and your guests will never forget. Consider the Holiday Inn SW - Route 66 to host your bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, ceremony and your guest rooms. Featuring 212 sleeping rooms, both indoor and outdoor pools, workout facility and rental car service on property, your guests will certainly appreciate the convenience of the venue you have selected for your extraordinary night. Designed with you in mind, our all-inclusive wedding packages provide you the ability to unite all of your reception needs in one magnificent location. We invite you to discover this unforgettable venue with our bridal consultant by simply phoning 314-821-6600. Explore us online at www.hiroute66.com/weddings where you can view our delectable menus or submit an inquiry. Congratulations and we look forward to being part of your happily ever after.
HOLIDAY INN ROUTE 66
{ 10709 Watson Road, St. Louis, MO 63127 ✤ (314) 821-6600 ✤ www.hiroute66.com/weddings }
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Say ‘I do’ ... and we do the rest! Imagine your heart’s desire, where cascading waterfalls welcome your guests, and every detail down to the last beautifully folded napkin is simply perfect. At The Falls, we have turned service into a celebration, and celebration into an art. Located just 15 minutes from downtown St. Louis in peaceful Columbia, Illinois, this beautiful wedding ceremony and reception site has quietly earned a reputation for excellence since its opening in 2001. On the happiest day of your life, let our professional; consultants, service staff, MCs & DJs, and executive chef do what they do best: Make your wedding day carefree and unforgettable. Share your dreams with us, and we’ll start making them come true. Whether your wedding wishes may be met with an intimate dinner for friends and family or a lavish gala for everyone in town, our sterling service will bring your dreams to life.
THE FALLS RECEPTION AND CONFERENCE CENTER
{ 300 Admiral Weinel Blvd., Columbia, IL 62236 ✤ (888) 538-7778 ✤ www.seethefalls.com }
ILLINOIS LOCATIONS FOLLOW THE HEARTS FOR MORE INFORMATION. ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
PAGE NUMBER
Casino Queen Hotel & Casino 200 South Front St., East St. Louis
800-777-0777 250 Y N Y N Y
Crystal Garden and Event Center 1230 University Drive, Edwardsville
618-655-1170 350
DoubleTree Collinsville - St. Louis 1000 Eastport Plaza Drive, Collinsville
618-345-2800 450 Y N Y Y Y
The Falls Reception & Conference Center, 300 Admiral Wienel Blvd., Columbia
888-538-3354 600 Y Y Y Y Y 6 7
Four Points By Sheraton Fairview Heights 319 Fountains Parkway, Fairview Heights
618-622-9500 500 Y N Y Y Y
Gateway Center, The 1 Gateway Drive, Collinsville
800-289-2388 1,292 Y N Y N Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Hidden Winery Who Lake accepts and secures deliveries like flowers and cake? Who can decorate and break down the areaY Y Y when? 888-966-WINE 500 Y Y 10580 Wellen Rd., Aviston National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, The 800-682-2879 400 N Y Y Y Y 442 South Demazenod Drive, Belleville Oak Terrace Resort & Spa 100 Beyers Lake Rd., Pana
800-577-7598 Call - Y Y Y Y
Orchards Golf Club 1499 Golf Course Drive, Belleville
618-233-8921 150
Y
N
Y
N
N
Regency Conference Center, The 400 Regency Park Dr., O’Fallon
618-624-9999 350
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Stonewolf Golf Club 1195 Stonewolf Trail, Fairview Heights
618-624-4653 350
Y
Y
Y
N
N
Sunset Hills Country Club 2525 Highway 157 South, Edwardsville
618-656-9380 330
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
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636.939.6005
827 N. Second Street, St. Charles, MO 63301 www.whitetraditionsbridal.com whitetraditions@gmail.com
Specializing in bridal gowns, bridesmaids, accessories, & tuxedo rentals
Reun L OV E S TORY REUNITED
‘I stilll had his flame lit and didn’t know it.’
monica & james OCTOBER 3, 2015 After more than a decade of relative silence, Monica Adams and
he said. “It would be nice to find out how our lives were now.” This
Jim Quentin quickly said what came to mind upon meeting again
time, only a few days passed before Jim called Monica, traffic anchor
in December 2012.
and fitness contributor for KTVI (Fox channel 2) morning news.
“When we dated about 15 years ago, it just wasn’t the right time
It was holiday time, his mother was fighting cancer. They had
of our lives,” said Jim, a St. Louis County police officer. Monica
much to catch up on. They saw “Wicked” at the Fabulous Fox
was a head fitness trainer near a substation where he worked and
Theatre as “buddies.” Monica said their hands “sort of naturally fell
morning show host on WIL-FM (92.3). The first time, it took three
together.” Handshakes followed the reunion, but the spark was set.
weeks to ask her out. Months later, when he was ready to urge their
She brought Jim to her mother’s home as a “Christmas miracle.”
relationship forward, she pulled back – and the shy suitor drew away.
They reminisced one evening at her house. “I said, ‘I loved you
In 2012, a mutual friend suggested he call after her obliging “tell
then, I love you now and I will always love you.’ After all these years,
him hi” as his name surfaced. “We had a tremendous relationship,”
I still had his flame lit and didn’t know it.”
STORY BY JANICE DENHAM ✤ PHOTOS COURTESY OF STRIKE A POSE
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nited
Nurturing their second-chance relationship, they recalled what
with red accents walked down a grassy aisle strewn with petals. One
they had missed. Jim admired her outgoing personality and shar-
of Jim’s sons was best man. The groom met his bride on the arms
ing ways. He saw her energy attracting people. Monica helped con-
of her two brothers, in lieu of her dad who died when she was 23.
sole him as both his parents died over the next two years. Ready to prepare a future together, they talked of marriage.
“The passing of my father resonated. Monica is very much about
living for the moment. God gives us a very slim window in this world,” he said.
Mutual appreciation of Southern charm framed their engagement in January 2015 at the Carnton Plantation in Franklin, Tenn.
Standing under a Greek-themed altar area they had designed with white columns and floral decorations, the couple exchanged vows as Dan Gray, Monica’s friend and KTVI co-worker, officiated. Monica said, “There is a photo of us well framed with the columns. When Dan tells you to kiss me, Jim was told, ‘You can dip and kiss her.’ That picture will always stay in my mind.” Monica’s ivory-colored gown with black lace, secured at a Brides
Monica called Jim “a true Southern
Against Breast Cancer benefit,
gentleman. Chivalry is not dead.
depicted their favored vintage style.
His heart is truly beautiful.”
“We are truly a throwback to the days of old-school Hollywood,” the
After a tour, Jim waited for
bride said.
empty rocking chairs on the wraparound porch. Rather than discuss
Honoring their families, they
the pastoral view, Jim eloquently
gave a rose to Monica’s mother and
spoke of their family histories.
acknowledged other places usually
When he asked where she saw
reserved for parents.
them going, she responded, “I live
Love letters each had written,
for the power of the second.” He
letters from Jim’s son, Monica’s
recalled saying, “I see us together
mother and two best friends and
in the future. I see you as my wife,
a vintage Amerone wine and two
side-by-side.” He slipped the ring
glasses were sealed ceremoniously
he had designed onto her finger.
in a wooden box to unlock and
They considered the slight drizzle
share on their fifth anniversary. Monica’s mother, Jacqueline
to be a sign of approval from their
Adams, made her daughter’s veil
three parents already deceased. Originally setting The Reserve
with fabric saved from her own
at Augusta for a rehearsal dinner
mother. The bride borrowed her
before their wedding on Oct. 3,
great-grandmother’s ring from
2015, they decided to be the first
her mother and wound a locket
couple married at a friend’s public vineyard and wine cellar.
‘I love the beauty of her heart.’
with photos of Jim and Monica’s dad around her bouquet. Jim carried his father’s wedding ring and
Monica called their wedding on an unexpectedly cool day “straight out of a fairy tale.” According
grandfather’s handkerchief and wore a tie pin his mother had made
to Southern tradition, they dug up and, with the wedding party,
for his father.
drank a bottle of Bulleit bourbon they had buried at the wedding location one month before the ceremony.
They danced to a choreographed Etta James’ “At Last.” Monica said their first dance with the bridal party to Gladys Knight’s “You’re
The bride rode through The Reserve’s picturesque vineyard with
the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” applied to all their fam-
the flower girl and ring bearer in an old German carriage pulled by
ily and friends. Pink’s “Let’s Get This Party Started!” invited 190
two Clydesdales. “I couldn’t see her when she came in the carriage.
guests to warm up on the dance floor.
Not until she came to the aisle with her brothers did I see how stunningly beautiful she was that day,” the groom said. A hearty breeze snuffed plans for white runner and candles. Instead, attendants dressed in a color theme of black and mocha
A surprise from Monica awaited Jim outside the rehearsal dinner. Under a tree was a Harley Davidson, the answer to a diversion lingering since his teens. After returning from a honeymoon in Napa, Calif., they arranged classes so he could “get up to speed.”
F E AT U R E ARRANGE THE SCENE
Venues
set wedding stage DATE AND BUDGET BEGIN LOCATION CONVERSATION.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ARNDT & CINEMA PHOTOGRAPHY
A venue adjacent to an indoor facility eases concern over possible weather at an outdoor event. Location: Terrace at the Caramel Room at Bissinger’s overlooking the Mississippi River in downtown St. Louis.
W
edding date and budget open the conversation
items sets value on the outcome.
between a bride and groom with a possible venue, said
“The number of guests and capacity of the venue set the
Amanda Bradham-Little, director of marketing and events for 23
requirements. Most venues have a food and beverage minimum,
City Blocks Catering.
the amount you have to spend to book it. With our Caramel
“Unless they are flexible with their date, it is difficult to move
Room at Bissinger’s capacity at 320 versus Lumen’s at 200, it’s
on to photographs, videography or other items. The location is
obvious that Caramel will have a higher minimum,” she said.
the biggest part of your wedding budget.”
“Quality enters the equation. A beef dinner at a venue with
Wedding requirements determine price. Prioritizing important
a $10,000-minimum may cost the venue more than what a
STORY BY JANICE DENHAM
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
$5,000-minimum location might charge.” Location is all-important, Bradham-Little noted, with
food, about the meal,” she noted. “You want them to exclaim, ‘Wow, was that an experience!’”
lodging nearby for out-of-town guests a factor. Parking is
Private vendors are winning out over do-it-yourselfers
a high priority, but she warned against overanalyzing it.
in the current economy, she said. Besides flowers, a couple
Celebrants can designate hotel blocks within five min-
may add lighting, linens, drapery and other decor. If a
utes of a venue and guests often drive “Noah’s Ark-style,
venue does not provide them, they must be outsourced. A
2-by-2-by-2.” For example, Bissinger’s provides free
chuppah or arbor designed for a ceremony usually turns
gated parking, while Lumen and others without a lot
into reception decor, then may go home with the couple
require valet parking. This alone may add considerable
for their garden.
cost to site fees.
Switching from ceremony to reception in a single
Accessibility is not a one-size-fits-all commodity. If
venue, Bradham-Little said, “is a finely choreographed
Aunt Helen and Grandpa Jim are “incredibly impor-
ballet. You have 60 minutes, while guests enjoy cock-
tant” to wedding activity, then she suggested an extra
tails, for everyone to do their magic. Transforming the
look at what would be their surroundings that day.
room is all about details and planning. Just like planning
Older venues may not accommodate certain handicaps
their day, it is wise to go to a team organized to do that.”
as easily as newer ones do.
An outdoor wedding requires a backup plan, too.
“Because there are more unique venues with their
Seating possibilities are endless: traditional round
own ambiance today, brides have gotten smarter in pick-
tables, round and square, long feasting tables or a
ing a venue that they don’t have to fight,” she added. “In
mixture of all three. So are sweetheart tables for a few
some places, you really don’t have to do a whole lot, just
intimate bride-and-groom moments. Newlyweds today
add a few centerpieces if you want a fairy-tale wedding
are apt to let the wedding party sit nearby with their
in a hotel ballroom. It may cost a lot more to build and
own significant others alongside.
add it to a gymnasium.” Food is important. A location which provides catering relieves planners. “Afterward, guests talk about the
A bride and groom should check on audio-visual potential in a location to deliver house music, slide shows and other memorable photo and video fun.
PHOTO COURTESY OF KEITH LEE STUDIOS
Spy on photos of a variety of weddings held previously in the venue space being considered for your own event. Location: The Caramel Room at Bissinger’s in downtown St. Louis.
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F E AT U R E MEAL TIME
FAN FARE
FOOD STYLED BY HERMANN HILL WEDDINGS; CHEF RHONDA DAVIS ✤ PHOTOGRAPHY BY TROTTER PHOTO
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S
haring a special occasion over food nourishes tradition. Newlyweds may say their vows at a courthouse nearby, travel thousands of
miles to make their commitment or invite close friends and relatives by the dozen to witness the occasion, but they will likely follow up with a food-centered celebration. Rhonda Davis, chef at Hermann Hill Weddings in Hermann, Mo., said brides and grooms often find a buffet matches their plan to serve a variety of delicious foods in a beautiful setting, such as the view where Hermann Hill overlooks the Missouri River. Imaginative presentations solve the dilemma of satisfying taste buds that seek the familiar wrapped in creative, special-occasion flavors. Treats may be sweet as favorite candies the bride and groom chose when they were in elementary school or the fun of a self-serve french fry bar with savory toppings. For a late-evening treat, Hermann Hill, which also leaves treats for its bed-and-breakfast guests, serves wedding celebrants a combination of milk, stirs of chocolate-dipped cinnamon and peppermint sticks, and coffee flavorings along with chocolate chip cookies – shaped like hearts, of course.
(Previous page) A person delegating breakfast to any time of day appreciates chicken waffles drizzled with maple drizzle. (Below) Shrimp stays chilled for serving in citrus-studded bowls of ice.
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Grilled ribeye steak marinated with Provencal panache, garlic-and-chive mashed potatoes and copper penny carrots glazed with honey and brown sugar invite hearty appetites in a main dish presented in the windowed reception room at Hermann Hill. The winding Missouri River also frames ceremonies in the chapel.
(Left) Speared grape tomatoes, cheese tortellini and ripe olives share basil pesto sauce. (Right) German Hermann is close in favor to St. Louis’ Italian Hill when handy servings of toasted ravioli line up with sauce in single file.
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(Above) Guests say nighty-night with chocolate chip cookies and a selection of white and chocolate milk, chocolate-dipped cinnamon and peppermint stick stirs, and flavorings for coffee. (Below, left) Guests take charge of fries-on-the-side. Paperwrapped helpings perched in terra cotta flower pots come with topping choices: garlic aioli, sriracha ketchup, traditional ketchup, chipotle mayo; sea salts – plain, chipotle, merlot, sweet onion; sprinkles of cheddar cheese, salsa, green onion and hot peppers. (Below, right) French toast sticks for brunch, lunch or late-evening snack.
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Suiting the thirsty whims of brides, grooms and guests are (clockwise from top left) berry-infused sparkling water, shooters of tomato soup with toasted cheese sandwich wedges, prickly pear cactus margaritas and fresh lemonade.
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From Elegant to Casual, Buffet to BBQ
Ballroom seating up to 250 Outdoor patio seating up to 225 Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service
Kenrick’s is priced to fit your needs, with the service that you deserve. With Over 30 Years of Experience
Wedding Receptions ♦ Hall Packages ♦ Engagement Parties ♦
Bridal Showers Rehearsal Dinners ♦ Post-Wedding Brunch ♦ ♦
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We’re Your Party People Holiday Inn Airport West 3400 Rider Trail South Holidayinn.com/stlairportwest.com 314-291-6800
Pleasing brides & their families since 1937.
Lubeley’s Bakery and Deli, Inc. 314.961.7160 7815 Watson Road, Saint Louis, MO 63119 www.lubeleysbakery.com 120
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ON T H E C OV E R WEDDING CAKES
SWEET! Cakes provided by LUBELEY’S BAKERY AND DELI ✤ Photography by TROTTER PHOTO
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F
or this sweet occasion, nothing less than a centerpiece cake will do. Buttercream
frosting matches with flavor appeal. Shades of ivory anchor multiple cakes for 2016, said Carol Lubeley, wedding consultant for Lubeley’s Bakery and Deli. Coral and peach round out the spring and summer appeal, but brides will add unique touches that match their own carefully designed look and colors. “Every bride needs to remember that what inspires her on the Internet may be decorated for show or a wedding that concentrates on a special cake to carry through a theme,” she said. “That is where an experienced consultant for the cake can suggest ways to make a local bride’s cake hers tierby-tier, perhaps by featuring some of the details she loves on the photo.” Prospective newlyweds should concentrate on getting the most value as well as effect for their investment. Each handmade detail adds to the cake’s beauty as well as its cost. Handmade sugar flowers: These edible decorations may not be as sturdy as silk or even a real blossom. Lace trim: An excellent cake decorator can imitate the wedding gown’s lace in its entirety or with an outline or similar, simpler shape. The lace itself may be part of the decoration. Size it up: Even a showstopper cake will be cut and sliced. Taste is what delivers authenticity. Less tasty fondant does not deliver the melt-in-yourmouth flavor attributed to buttercream frosting. A cake which may serve 75 or even fewer guests can carry design impact, while more layers with the same or varying flavors and a dynamite filling provide servings galore.
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(Previous page) Gold stars like a lottery winner with white floral flair. (Above) Narrow ribbon wraps three square cake layers for a smooth presentation that matches attendants’ brown gowns and reflects a splash of shimmering gold fantasy. (Right) A sweet pick in all-white ‒ or all-ivory in current style ‒ buttercream icing holds initials on top and combinations of scrolls and dots on each layer. A puff of pearlized shine adds lastminute glow.
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(Above) Another square trio makes it easy to slice 75 pieces of tasty cake with complementary filling inside. Its plum ribbon band could be colored frosting in another version. Grooved upright bars with pearly dots project height. (Right) Tone-on-tone shades of white and cream give depth while Lubeley’s adds a glamorous turn with its wedding tree scrolls in party-perfect cameo pink.
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Spring & summer 2016
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Beautiful Beginnings BEGIN WITH DIllarD’s BrIDal rEGIsTry: Over 270 stores in 29 states The Best Selection of Your Favorite Brand Names Easy Internet Accessibility on Facebook or at www.dillards.com FREE Wedding and Home Planner as Your Gift When You Register ComPlETE YouR NEW HomE PRoGRAm Save 20% on most Regular Price Items Remaining on Your Registry After the Wedding
i thee wed
®
(What to do BEFoRE & aFtER “I do”)
F E AT U R E REGISTRY
Toast to Hospitality! Everyone ‒ cousins, grandparents, softball and volleyball
The shared backdrop might be “his” condo, “her”
teams, holiday guests, movie enthusiasts, neighbors ‒ wants
apartment or “our” house. It may sit on a busy street, along
to savor the flavor of the newlyweds’ blended style as a cou-
a shady lane in suburbia or overlook a lake. The fusion
ple with a future.
envisioned in a registry becomes a link to items a couple
When friends and relatives offer to share the task of
needs and wants both now and later. They should make
designing that newly established homestead, a registry sug-
suggestions in a broad range of prices and suggest gift
gests how the couple hopes details of their merger will look.
possibilities only when asked.
IDEAS FROM DILLARD’S REGISTRY ✤ PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) BY TROTTER PHOTO
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1
2 DINNERWARE
8-12 place settings: dinner plates, bowls, salad plates, dessert plates, cups and saucers, forks, salad forks, teaspoons, soup spoons, knives and steak knives Serving bowls, platters, utensils Gravy boat Butter dish and knives Pitcher Sugar bowl and spoon Coffee mugs
GLASSWARE IN THE KITCHEN
Teapot Paring knife Cutlery, knife block, cutting boards Can/bottle openers Ice cream scoop High-temp mitts, pot holders Dishcloths and towels Paper towel holder Fruit bowl/ripener Cookie jar Cutting board Canister set Spice rack Pot rack
FOR THE TABLE
128
Salt/pepper shakers Oil, dressing cruets Punch bowl and ladle Corkscrew Trivets Placemats, napkins, napkin rings Tablecloths and runners Coasters Serving trays Cake plate and dome Chip-and-dip server Salad bowl and servers Wine rack, chiller, decanter, carrier Ice bucket and tongs Vases
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8-12 water goblets, wine glasses, martini glasses, margarita glasses, champagne flutes, highball/ tumblers, water glasses Water pitcher Drying rack for fine glassware
COOKING & BAKING
Skillet Griddle Saucepans and stockpot Wok and stir-fry pan Steamer Slow cooker Pressure cooker Baking sheets Pie pans/dishes Muffin pan Cake pans Pizza pan, baking stone Cooling racks
3
OPENING PAGE (Clockwise from top left) Dishwasher-safe Lenox beer mug; Artland Iris goblet in cobalt blue, Culver Fiesta-stripe drinkware atop Artland Iris double old-fashioned glass in sage green, unbreakable Strahl wine glass, Mikasa Cheers balloon glass, Noble Excellence double old-fashioned wavy drinkware, with Kate Spade New York “Eat Cake for Breakfast” placemat and pink stripe Harbour Drive napkin.
4
Casserole dishes Mixing bowls Measuring cups and spoons Rolling pin Grater Spatulas Whisk Potato masher Food, oven thermometers Kitchen timer Kitchen scissors Knife sharpener Cookbooks Food savers
ON THESE PAGES 1 Breville “Juice Fountain” multi-speed juicer 2 Oneida Dover 20-piece flatware set 3 Metrokane vertical “Rabbit” wine corkscrew
5
APPLIANCES
Microwave oven Coffeemaker for single serving and/or group Coffee grinder Espresso/cappuccino machine Toaster Mixer, hand and/or stand Food processor; hand blender Griddle Soda machine Tea kettle Bread maker Juicer or extractor Iced tea maker Indoor/outdoor grill Grilling utensils
4 Waterford Crystal heart ring holder
AROUND THE HOUSE
Sheets, pillowcases, pillows Spread, blanket, comforter, duvet cover Memory foam mattress topper Desk lamp Trash, garbage cans Wall and table clocks, alarm clock Candles, candle holders Wall sconces/wall anchors Picture frames Magnifying mirror Bath towels Bathmat Shower and sink accessories CD/DVD/magazine storage Traditional/robotic vacuum cleaner, specialty cleaning aids, hand vac Step stool Iron and ironing board Laundry hamper Storage boxes Entry, kitchen, bath mats Tool set/toolbox/sewing kit Box of screws/box of nails Cordless screwdriver Cordless drill Suitcases, backpacks, dufflebags Cooler, mini and wheeled Portable chairs Digital camera DVD/CD player/game system TV Patio furniture Picnic basket
5 Candice Olson Mosaic comforter set 6 Eagle Creek Jet Current luggage
6
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YOUR BIG DAY REQUIRES PERFECT ARRANGEMENTS
314.993.1100 | 1335 South Lindbergh Boulevard | St. Louis, Missouri | 63131 www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com
Celebr L OV E S TORY CELEBRATE
‘You see all the smiles with everyone surrounding you.’
lindsey & ryan JUNE 13, 2015
Once engaged, Lindsey Skaggs and Ryan Noles agreed a
couple, eavesdropping on their ease, sent them drinks
six-month engagement would allow plenty of time to plan
because they looked like Barbie and Ken. They planned a
their wedding. They had known each other for eight years.
“real date” with dinner the next evening.
That first “blind date” was in June 2007. Ryan asked a
From the first, Ryan put her at ease, greeting her “with
friend to track down Lindsey’s phone number after seeing
a big hug and a huge smile” in his family’s tradition. He
her from afar the previous night. He invited her to grab a
recalled, “After about one week of being together nonstop,
drink at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis.
I knew Lindsey was someone special. Lindsey was practi-
“We sat on a couch for about three hours and got along
cal, fun, funny, and I always wanted to be with her. She
well,” he later shared as a “memorable moment” with their
got along with my family and we agreed about everything.”
marriage officiant. On the spot, they joked about their
Within two weeks, talk of marriage began. “We are all about
instant combustion of laughter and conversation. Another
family,” Ryan said about the reflection they mirrored from
STORY BY JANICE DENHAM ✤ PHOTOS COURTESY OF AUDREY SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
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of the hotel or wherever, you would literally run into all 100 people
the time they met through their wedding. Lindsey, a registered nurse, is a clinical educator for SSM Health.
there for the wedding.”
Ryan owns two restaurants in St. Louis, two more in Dallas. He has
Lindsey drove down a week early to prepare gift bags with water,
appreciated her understanding in frequent trips to Texas alone and
cookies, popcorn, suntan lotion, limoncello-scented hand soap and
together. She admires his work ethic, tempered with an ability to
other traveling necessities. She clocked late-afternoon thunder-
laugh. “Ryan is probably the funniest human being on earth, but
storms every day. However, on their wedding day, rain started ear-
he is a person born with ambition. He believes strongly in provid-
lier, at 2 p.m., so they chanced holding the short, sweet, meaningful
ing whatever he can do for his family, but at the end of the day, he
event in rising heat and humidity – but it did not rain. Tim Bono,
somehow comes bouncing home and makes you laugh.”
ordained minister who teaches “Positive Psychology: The Science
Ryan planned to propose at
of Happiness” at Washington
holiday time 2014 when they see
University, St. Louis, added a reli-
their large families nonstop. Despite
gious element to the private court-
his persistence on Christmas Eve,
yard ceremony. They outlined the
a tired Lindsey wanted to wait to
program on personal fans.
open presents. She awoke to find
At the reception, the couple
two same-size, shiny gifts. The
displayed photos identifying gen-
first one she opened was their tra-
erations of beloved family in long
ditional sharing of an ornament
marriages,
of significance in their lives. The
cant to Ryan’s relatives from Italy.
second one held an engagement
Images included two grandparents
ring. Champagne flutes his family
who had recently passed. Close
had engraved “12/24/14” are now
relatives and friends – two brides-
a cheer-ful sign of their betrothal
maids, three groomsmen and two
on Christmas morning.
ushers – were attendants. Ring
particularly
signifi-
They decided on a Florida
bearers were the bride’s nephews,
wedding destination in Naples, her
Jack and George, while flower girl
family’s vacation home. They chose
Isabella was a cousin’s daughter.
the Ritz-Carlton there, significant
Guests found their seats with
for their first hometown meeting.
cards attached to 3-ounce jars of
They hoped guests would make
limoncello – a big hit! – lined up
it a vacation. “We just wanted a big blowout party for four days,” Lindsey said about their June date. They painted a scene of simple elegance in hues of gold and
‘He somehow comes bounding home and makes you laugh.’
creams against a backdrop of golf courses, pools, beach and hotel. “Six months gave us no time to second-guess,” said the bride. “I liked not having choices. We just selected things and moved on.”
under a lemon tree. Ryan’s Nonna (Grandmother)
Cafferata
had
slowly steeped the Italian-style lemon liqueur in her kitchen in St. Louis. Fun and food flowed
from sit-down dinner to late-night snack of flatbread pizza. The newlyweds initiated dancing with “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne. Lindsey said, “When I think about that day,
A weekend together would be a bonus. On Thursday, “kids’
I just see everyone up on the dance floor with Ryan and me in the
night,” guests divided up by generations. Ryan and his dad wel-
middle. This is why people get married. Everyone comes together
comed 20 guests to play golf on Friday, then his family hosted
to celebrate. You see all the smiles with everyone surrounding you.”
wedding guests that evening at an Italian-themed rehearsal event
Rather than squeezing a year of vacations into two weeks, Ryan
at the golf resort. Following their wedding Saturday, the bride and
said, they delayed a honeymoon to the south of France until late
groom offered Sunday brunch on the porch of the Ritz’ beach house.
summer. They would not change a thing about the wedding, but
“It was so wonderful to be on a four-day vacation with your
may have initiated a new tradition. Guests suggested a repeat week-
family and friends,” Ryan said. “Everywhere you’d go, in the lobby
end with them to celebrate their first anniversary.
F E AT U R E BEAUTY
Hair today, brows tomorrow FOR MEN AND WOMEN
Krysta Madden of Belleza Bridal and Hair Salon puts final touches on hair and makeup before Rebecca Richards Sheehan is photographed for the spring-summer issue of St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine.
S
etting a romantic look with a timeless
more headbands and clips with accents of pearls,
with more natural highlights, a significant
feel is the goal of today’s bride.
rhinestones or lace.” A veil that comes off a head-
change from ombre shading. So it is with eye
band gives a new look for the reception, its touch
color in muted shades and tans.
Taylar Federhofer, hairstylist and makeup
artist with Belleza Bridal and Hair Salon,
“For eyes, gradual change creates the
of glamour reflecting night lighting.
said, “Right now the rustic theme – mov-
A bride, ready for action with photos of
softness with a more blended look. The
ing toward super rustic, in fact – is classic
what she would like to replicate, should con-
crease gets more of the brown and fades to a
for brides. The focus is on softness and big
sult a salon of choice early.
tan or gold or off-white to offset the eye,” she
curls. More people are doing half-up and half-
“We recommend doing that two to three
down for the hair’s movement, rather than a
months before the wedding, giving time for
traditional updo.”
two or three trials.” A future bride can “test
Looseness comes with curls enhanced by teasing not just the crown, but all hair for lift.
said. Lashes provide drama and better photo
drive” a style to coincide with a bridal shower, bachelorette or other party. Extensions help achieve her goal of long
Loose, wispy pieces often frame the face. A bride’s swept-up look embraces braids
hair. “By the time of the wedding day, we
as part of the style – Boho in particular. A
would probably only place extensions to
separate section of long hair is twisted for
lengthen or thicken the hair, make it looser
contrasting texture and whimsy with layered,
and more voluminous,” she said. At Belleza’s,
slightly disheveled impact. To further enhance
brides often blend in lengths of 12 or 18 inch-
a bride’s rustic look, Federhofer suggested, a
es. Temporary extensions are clipped in and
band of burlap and flowers, perhaps fresh,
removed for sleep or a wash. Others bond with
could be entwined.
heat to the hair’s keratin and protein for a look
“Where the back of the dress is the center
lasting three months or longer. to complete
focus,” she pointed out, “many hair designs
the look, bangs hang in place or are pinned
accentuate it. A big trend is to wear a veil less
back very, very loosely.
and less, steering away from the traditional. I see
Balayage is the new trend for hair color
STORY BY JANICE DENHAM ✤ PHOTOS PROVIDED BY TROTTER PHOTO
134
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
results. Filled-in eyebrows, an undetectable enhancement, start with powder, then may move on to cream and pencil.
This Is Your Moment
Federhofer envisions lips for spring with
To Be
more pink, perhaps in “rose gold,” and peach
Beautiful
than this winter’s matte surface. She prefers spray tanning, when used,
www.EnhancedBeautyArtistry.com
three days before the wedding, Early trials test effects over its five-to-seven-day lifetime. Air-brushed makeup, she added, “covers absolutely everything, even tattoos and poison ivy, any place on the body.” On her list of favorite things to do is pamper the bride and others in the wedding party. In Belleza’s designated party salon, groups gather to sip beverages while getting
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GUYS TRIM MANE EVENT Taylar Federhofer is an equal opportunity cosmetologist at Belleza Bridal and Hair Salon. Grooming men for a wedding is as important to her as preparing women for a big event. “The men we serve keep it pretty simple and do not get stressed out like a bride. They usually party or golf the day before the wedding,” she laughed. “When we offer them a beer instead of champagne, they realize this is not just a time for women.” These are her tips for “manscaping.” ✤ Do not wait until the wedding day to
change a look. ✤ Consider good looks from a man’s
perspective about a month in advance. ✤ Have hair cut at least one week in
advance of a bridal celebration. ✤ To tweak: Hair style, neck trim, beard
trim, eyebrow wax, brow trim. ✤ Men can achieve and enjoy a finished
look, just like women in a wedding party do, that lasts all day. ✤ Stagger day-of timing to avoid seeing bride before she walks down the aisle.
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Life-cha L OV E S TORY LIFE-CHANGING
‘Something worthwhile was standing in front of me.‘
joy & david AUGUST 15, 2015 The game Connect 4 introduced Joy Thomas and David Glenn to a winning strategy for their future together. Around Thanksgiving and again a month later in 2012, they were invited to a monthly game night at the home of her niece who is married to his cousin.
as he was a St. Louis policeman – he sought the payoff. “Something worthwhile was standing in front of me,” he said. They went to dinner two weeks later. Persistently creative, they connected over common interests, working out free time between
David’s three children from Columbia, Mo., quickly joined the
his night shift and her daytime IT security job with a pharmaceu-
other kids in December. He said, “I was playing video games, sitting
tical company. He lived in south St. Louis and her home was in
on the floor like a kid myself. I kept crashing in this race car game
Jennings with her adult children.
because I was watching her reflection in the screen.” He switched to
“After the first date, I could see this potentially going some-
Connect 4 with his niece, who gave up her seat to Joy. He lost twice,
where,” said Joy, a widow since 2004. A marathon conversation
then posed an incentive: If he wins, she shares her phone number.
began one evening. “This was not just rambling. It was the sort that
His luck changed. Following her to her car – for safety, of course,
solidified our entanglement,” said David. “It was about likes and
STORY BY JANICE DENHAM ✤ PHOTOS COURTESY OF VIDEO GATE STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY
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anging dislikes and faith, how you feel about life and kids. It was the most productive 12 hours I ever spent on the phone.”
Once he met Joy, David was “intrigued.” He listened to her tri-
als, but needed to analyze whether he felt love or infatuation. On Valentine’s Day, he said he loved her and Joy reciprocated.
Joy, a part-time wedding consultant, wanted to share a bridal
celebration David had never experienced, so they planned it for August 2015. By the time of their annual trip in 2014 to Punta Cana, he was strong enough to snorkel.
Their home-church pastors married them at the Jewel Box, with
Family, jobs and his activities in a motorcycle club, Regulators
five bridesmaids, five groomsmen, his two sons performing “ring
MC of St. Louis, and BackStoppers supporting fallen first respond-
security,” one junior bridesmaid and Joy’s 14-month-old grand-
ers occupied them. Sometimes they met at his home between their
daughter, Penelope, as flower girl. The bride woke that morning
jobs for more time together. David decided it was time to see if the
“on cruise control. I was like on a cloud, very relaxed, not stressed
relationship would blossom. While discussing “getting married and
out. It is easy to get lost in the anxiety of the day, but it is necessary
married to each other,” he gave her
to breathe and stop to look around
a Michael Kors purse for her birth-
and embrace what is going on.”
day. It held two tickets for a trip
The vows they wrote flowed
in August to Punta Cana, Mexico.
from overflowing hearts. David
Once home, he started looking for
pushed away a new “leaning
the right ring.
stick,” secured that week while his leg was “going through the blues,”
On Nov. 13, 2013, life changed.
to kneel on one knee as “my sign
He was shot. He was just back from a motor-
of humility that I wanted to be
cycle trip to Washington, D.C.
vulnerable for you. This is us. It
“I got ambushed while off duty,
verbalizes us every day.”
exchanged fire and was hit in my
Setting romantic vintage style
leg,” he said. A knee-to-ankle rod
amid shades of cassis, platinum
stabilized his leg. Two weeks later
and cream, Joy personalized her
the hospital released him. Joy
new gown with a sparkling belt,
worked remotely from his home,
carried her mother’s blue-trimmed
organizing his recovery physically
handkerchief, accented a blue and
with a cast from thigh to ankle,
cream-colored garter with a police
plus psychologically from trauma
officer badge and borrowed her
following the shooting.
daughter’s prom shoes.
“She literally took care of me
At the reception at The Cedars
like I belonged to her,” said David,
Banquet Hall, she surprised David
deeply appreciative. “I am confident that this was preordained.” Joy called her reaction “second
‘I made it my business to get down on my knee.’
with a groom’s table centered with a red velvet cake, his name on the icing replicating his badge.
nature” after her first husband died of a brain tumor in eight months.
Surrounding it were photos of motorcycle events, an old-fashioned
She knew how to put her life on hold. “My question was whether
police call box, vintage patrol car and domed stack of doughnuts, a
I would lose him before we were even engaged. It solidified what I
favorite snack of policemen. A candle and photo of David’s grand-
already knew.”
father who had raised him honored his recent passing.
David continued his plan to propose on the anniversary of their
David sang his surprises for Joy after secretly practicing “All of
meeting. His cousin’s invitation for game night on Dec. 28, 2013,
Me” by John Legend and “Point of It All” by Anthony Hamilton.
did not alert Joy to the added attraction. Indeed, all eyes were on
The couple enjoyed a view of 175 guests from an elevated sweetheart
David on his first public appearance six weeks after being immobi-
table to allow the wedding party to join their own “significants.”
lized. He said, “I made it my business to get down on my knee” – for
The groom anticipated a lifetime of thoughtful communication
five seconds, Joy added. At that point, the significance of what he
built on their relationship with God. “Our level of talking makes
was saying drew her attention.
things move so quickly. My love is forever,” he said.
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PA RT Y PL A N S MUSIC
In harmony
Music makers strike up the band BY JANICE DENHAM
Entertainment makes or breaks the party, according to a music
scene dressed relevantly with more assets than a play list. “He is responsible for directing the night and making things
delivery specialist. “Whether the ceremony and reception are in one place or two,
run smoothly and communicating to guests and honorees what is
a bride and groom wants everyone to have a good time and be
going on throughout the time, when things will happen. He also
impressed with their unique selec-
communicates with other vendors so
tions,” said Scott Bernstein, opera-
they don’t miss anything important,”
tions director of Complete Weddings
said Bernstein of a musical leader’s
+ Events. “Either one should repre-
responsibilities as MC. Complete adds another goal to a
sent the couple. Music is a great part
basic list of priorities.
of that.” Options abound. For a cer-
“We welcome people. We go
emony, music may be chosen by
out of our way to greet and talk to
sound, such as harp, violin or organ.
people,” he added. “It is important
Musical style, such as classical or reli-
that they feel comfortable and taken
gious, also may intone the choice.
care of.”
A venue also determines what is
Entertainment sets a party’s
designated for both ceremony and
tone. Asking guests during dinner
reception. A church may come with
for musical requests and suggestions
its own instrument, accompanist and
lets a DJ connect with the group and
soloist, unless otherwise negotiated.
minimizes guesswork. An initial one-
On the other hand, engaging one
on-one experience creates a positive
versatile source for a wedding in a
and professional, yet personal, rela-
venue that encompasses both parts of
tionship as people are asked what
a wedding may efficiently use both
songs will invite them to dance.
energy and budget.
SONG SELECTION
“Obviously it is more convenient for a DJ if everything is all in one room, but providing both music and equipment for the wedding and the reception should not impact results,”
Photo courtesy of Photo Elegance
Morgan and Anthony Keence dance the night away at Kemoll’s Top of the Met. | A Love Story featured in St. Louis' Best Bridal's 2015 Fall and Winter issue.
The source of a company’s music determines quality and availability of selections. According to Bernstein, honorees’ ages usually start a list of
Bernstein said. Even a single site like a winery requires setup and
musical priorities. Younger brides and grooms delight in hear-
performance in separate locations.
ing more top-40 tunes now on the radio. Celebrants who are a
Not every company offers all the services that Complete can
little older want throwbacks from the ‘90s to top their play lists.
bundle: DJ entertainment, photography, videography, photo
Suggestions of parents and friends expand the scope of music well
booth, uplighting and extras like karaoke and video production.
beyond the electric slide and macarena, favorites of years gone by.
However, the same principles govern what to consider in music for weddings, the main occasion serviced by the firm.
“In this digital age, that is why we subscribe to a music service with radio-edited digital music,” said Bernstein of Complete’s resources. “It has better quality and is also legal. It is not off the
DJ AS MC AND HOST A musical master of ceremonies should arrive on the wedding
140
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Internet. It gives us an incredible catalog of music spanning 70 years and we don’t leave anything behind when we come.”
A pre-event planning sheet with likes, dis-
Bernstein related the story of a wedding
is responsible and passionate about what they
likes, musts and nevers helps determine what
booked through a company in a different
provide for a wedding. Considering other
pleases the honorees for background and dancing.
city. When the DJ did not show up, a relative
services, lack of music would be memorable.
A bride and groom occasionally need a few
plugged an iPad in to speakers for music. A
Professionals, whether they provide flowers or
suggestions for first-dance music, but that is
subcontracted DJ finally arrived late with no
music, are more likely to keep their promises
one piece they always select, said the veteran
knowledge of the couple. Later, the company
so there is a built-in comfort level on both
music maker who gathers information from
did not want to adjust charges.
sides of a contract,” said the wedding services
40 DJs on staff. It is as important that they
“It is important to book any vendor who
provider.
take the time to advise their provider what they do not want to hear as well as what they do want played.
MUSIC IN THE GROOVE ✤ Is ready at the outset ✤ Paces the day ✤ Moves with wedding’s pulse ✤ Engages many guests ✤ Enhances flow ✤ Connects with many ages ✤ Matches style of wedding ✤ Moves with production ✤ Follows a prepared plan ✤ Progresses in orderly fashion ✤ Looks as good as it sounds ✤ Responds to on-site situations
THE COUPLE AND MORE “A wedding event is all about the bride and groom,” Bernstein admitted, “but we try to make it all about everybody.” That includes children on the guest list. A professional company which invests in training helps DJs adjust in to such situations. “Even before the dancing starts, we bring kids out for games, some one-on-one time with the DJ. Throughout the rest of the night while the music caters to the adults, a few props like blow-up guitars and eyeglasses give the kids something interesting to do,” said the Complete provider.
MORE PROFESSIONALS Booking a professional wedding entertainer with training and experience may save heartache ‒ and extra expense ‒ before, during and after an event.
2650 S. Big Bend Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63143
(314) 647-3000 www.tko-djs.com
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PA RT Y PL A N S WEDDING SONGS
FOOT TAPPERS & TEAR JERKERS At Last BY ETTA JAMES
Cowboys and Angels BY DUSTIN LYNCH
God Bless the Broken Road BY RASCAL FLATS
Timeless BY AIRBORNE TOXIC EVENT
That’s How Strong My Love Is BY OTIS REDDING
L-O-V-E BY NAT KING COLE
Something BY GEORGE HARRISON
You and I BY MICHAEL BUBLÉ
The Second Time Around BY FRANK SINATRA
Fine by Me BY ANDY GRAMMER
You Are the Best Thing BY RAY LAMONTAGNE
Here and Now BY LUTHER VANDROSS
Forever BY THE BEACH BOYS
Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You BY FRANKIE VALLI
MUSIC ‘Come rain or come shine’
is ‘fine by me’
All of Me BY JOHN LEGEND
Lucky BY JASON MRAZ AND COLBIE CAILLAT
You Never Can Tell BY CHUCK BERRY
Then BY BRAD PAISLEY
From This Moment BY SHANIA TWAIN
Come to Me BY GOO GOO DOLLS
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While leaving musical selections entirely up to a band or disc jockey it may be tempting, couples should have an idea of the type of sound they want for their marquee dance. Like baseball players coming to bat, a signature song reminds them why they are sharing vows and focuses their attitude toward love and romance. Dances make memorable moments. Opportunity No. 1 comes when a couple steps onto the floor for the first time as husband and wife, dancing to a song meaningful along their love trail. Even if the sound suddenly seems remote in a routine practiced for weeks, a song’s familiar rhythm inspires movement in time to the music.
In this exclusive moment, they are in each
had taught him when he was young. Another
other’s arms and only have eyes for each other.
couple took advantage of living away from
Of course, music with special meaning to a
hometown family and friends to perfect a
bride and groom may be less familiar to other
spectacular dance where he lifted her onto his
people at their wedding, so encores should
shoulder as a surprise finale. If a parent is attending the wedding in
be minimal. More photos of the bride and groom in a
spirit, the dance tradition can continue. One
keystone dance are likely to be taken than other
option is to dance with another significant
match-ups. Thus, dances between generations
person in his or her stead. Playing a favorite
should be short and upbeat. These tunes may
song makes public a relative’s personality. With
be less traditional or pulse to a meter match-
or without a bit of commentary, the dance floor
ing a parent’s heritage or a special occasion.
can be open or filled in that memory.
Make You Feel My Love BY ADELE
Best Day of My Life BY AMERICAN AUTHORS
A Thousand Years BY CHRISTINA PERRI
The Way You Make Me Feel BY MICHAEL JACKSON
Warmness on the Soul BY AVENGED SEVENFOLD
Marry Me BY TRAIN
Deferring to parental preference on top songs
Pulse and sound may amp up as party pace
for spotlight dances shows appreciation to
increases. Those who stay longer can dance
When You Got a Good Thing
them beyond the party planner role.
to music they enjoy ‒ sometimes with aban-
BY LADY ANTEBELLUM
Sometimes family tradition can be shared
don! From a little country to classic pop and
with guests. Among Love Stories in St. Louis’
sweet classics, music taps out a newly married
Best Bridal magazines, one bride and her father
couple’s code. These recent choices are from
“stepped,” a dance style popular where she grew
St. Louis’ Best Bridal profiles.
up, and the groom took off his mother’s shoes
A DJ will will spin that favorite song. StLouisBestBridal.com Bridal Marketplace
so she could dance atop his feet, just as she
The Way You Look Tonight BY TONY BENNETT
I’m Yours BY JASON MRAZ
The Tender Trap BY SWEET DISPOSITION
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PA RT Y PL A N S PHOTOGRAPHY
Photos
capture love story 10 TIPS TO FIND BEST RESOURCE TO CAPTURE ESSENCE OF DAY. You want to remember when your vows were sealed with a kiss, who was there and how much fun it was. These questions help shake out a photographer to tell your tale for lifetime memories.
SAMPLES May we see more than one
DELIVERY In what format do you
sample of your work? Can you show us a
deliver proofs? What does the price
complete product start-to-finish like we
include? What other options or products
want, by the photographer we would have?
are available? At what cost?
IMAGE PRESERVATION How do you
Q UA LIT Y How do you print the
protect wedding photographs and for how
photos? Do you print them yourself or use
long? Will we be able to return in five or
a professional lab or consumer hobbyist
10 years to replace or get more photos?
photo-finisher? Are images guaranteed against fading? And for how long?
EQUIPMENT Do you use professional quality cameras to capture images in
STYLE What do you call your artistic
all lighting conditions or are they
style? What is your best natural asset –
consumer-level? Do you have backup
traditional poses, photojournalistic style
equipment if your camera, lights or
or is it mixed? Do you like to shoot
electricity fails? May our photographs
in a studio or at different locations?
vary in black-and-white, sepia, color
Engagement photos included? Where
spotlights or other special effects? Do
may we take them? Who picks sites?
you bring extra lighting?
Do you have alternate options to suggest in inclement weather?
COLLABORATION Do we work with you, another photographer or office
EXPERIENCE How long have you
assistant on or outside your staff? Will he/
photographed weddings? How long are you
she answer the phone? What is the process
in business? Can you provide references? If
for reviewing, selecting and editing final
we choose extra services, who will come to
images for the online teasers, album,
fulfill these obligations?
enlargements and print sets?
ASSURANCES How do you ensure
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TIME What is the maximum time we
satisfaction? What is the backup plan in
will wait to see proofs? Once pictures are
a delay or emergency? What happens if
selected, how long until final delivery of all
equipment fails or other issue arises? Do
products? Do we get a CD with all photos
you carry liability insurance? Where is the
and when? What may we do with it? Can
contract with details I can read before I
we earn bonus products?
sign our agreement?
F I N E RY TUXEDOS
HIS STYLE
Brides and grooms fashion a cohesive look with varied details for a wedding. Gentlemen wear gray, slim-fit, two-button tuxedos in the Black by Vera Wang collection available from MEN’S WEARHOUSE. Duet Collection coral and petal vests, bow ties and pocket squares individualize the look with varied shades matching bridal colors and flowers. A touch of sock plays color peek-a-boo.
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Noteworthy in navy, Ike Behar slim-fit, two-button tuxedos with satin notch lapels from SAVVI FORMALWEAR provide a fashion bonus for all ages. Luxurious wool fabrics wear comfortably and match coordinated vests, bow ties and pocket squares colored white, navy, pink and peach. Men dance onto the wedding stage in classic brown lace-up dress shoes from Allure Men by Jean Yves, also at SAVVI.
Top-notch formalwear boosts levels of comfort and confidence for the groom and other men in a wedding party. Ann Rafferty of Savvi Formalwear said a groom now likes to stand out not only with vest and tie, but in other unique accessories and contrasts, even his jacket. Formalwear specialists have extended the preferred slim-fit look in lapels, ties, trousers and sleeves into sizes fit for all ages and physiques. Rafferty noted the trend in gray continues and navy adds to compete for favor with ever-elegant black. Coordinated women’s attire in blue ‒ baby to navy, turquoise and royal ‒ and purples like amethyst and regency impress wedding views. From maize to gold, yellow is another favorite. Formal shoes of brown ‒ cognac evolving to lighter tan ‒ are catching on, too.
(Opposite page) 1. Gray ‒ charcoal, steel, heather and this gray Kristoff with satin-edged lapels and four-button vest at SAVVI FORMALWEAR ‒ is a top performer for any age. Lighter color, explained Rafferty, usually denotes a lighter-weight fabric blend to “breathe” better in warmer locations. 2. A blackchecked jacket and vest by Ike Behar arrives at SAVVI FORMALWEAR with accolades for imaginative elegance in a pairing with black flat-front trousers for slimming effect. 3. A two-button black tuxedo by Joseph Abboud at MEN’S WEARHOUSE shows classic styling: peak lapels and rich contrast of winecolored tie and vest. The higher a designation of “Super 100s” (this is Super 130), the smoother and creamier the texture. Joseph Abboud Custom line lets a groom change fabric, details and silhouette. 4. A burgundy tuxedo with black shawl lapels is another Ike Behar selection at SAVVI FORMALWEAR.
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Make your dream wedding a reality at the St. Charles Convention Center. Take advantage of our elegant Grand Ballroom with seating for up to 1,000, our exquisite in-house catering, a variety of wedding packages to ďŹ t your budget, and the attached 296 all-suite Embassy Suites Hotel.
636.669.3000 One Convention Center Plaza Saint Charles, MO 63303 www.stcharlesconventioncenter.com StCharlesConven
Old-fas L OV E S TORY OLD-FASHIONED
‘His beautiful and big, genuine heart is intoxicating.’
leah & sky AUGUST 1, 2015 Leah Gamel and Sky Clagett’s start was heaven-sent. They met
In January 2015, Sky reached out on social media from Aviano
at Church in Action, Arnold. Sky looked up mid-yawn one morning
Air Base in Italy. Leah noted his consistency. “He still had a sharp
and saw “this angel.” Sundays assumed a richer meaning.
sense of who he was, moral and compassionate, a genuine type of
Sky called himself “always the shy type,” compared to Leah,
man. We hit it off in a way that had never happened the first time.”
“always a knockout” and active in the youth group. Conversation
For Sky, the beautiful angel remained flawless. “She’s so strong
followed. “One day it stopped,” he said. Then a heartbroken teen,
and so steadfast in the things that she believes in and she has a way
he joined the Air Force in later years. Although initially intrigued,
of making you care about those things.” In a few short weeks, the
Leah said they simply went separate ways.
rapport seemed genuine. He would be home in April.
The airman never let go. “No one I met made me feel quite the
“We would have one week to see if the quick and deep con-
same way she did in that short time. She was smart, kind and had a
nection we seemed to make would be there in person,” Leah said.
smile that could keep a place lit for years.”
His family welcomed him and later he joined her for his favorites:
STORY BY JANICE DENHAM ✤ PHOTOS COURTESY OF RAVETTA PHOTOGRAPHY
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shioned homemade pasta, garlic bread and French silk pie. They talked away
They spray-painted shepherd hooks to hold jars which they frosted,
the evening. When she wasn’t at work as a medical assistant at Mercy
then family and friends lined them with lace, fresh daisies and baby’s
Hospital, they were inseparable that week. Unknowingly about the
breath. A rustic-framed chalkboard welcomed 160 guests.
other, each chose Rascal Flatts’ “The Day Before You” as background for the meeting, so they played it again at their wedding.
Two nights before the wedding, the couple and maid of honor
from Ohio collected 320 lemons from 10 different stores for center-
Their “old-fashioned” relationship, Sky said, “puts its faith in
pieces, then packaged 150 packages of s’mores. “We cut the lemons
God. It’s the kind of relationship where marriage is the end goal and
to go with pearls and floating tea lights in vases, so we didn’t really
a commitment is made to last forever.” It was during an early-morn-
sleep the next night either,” said the bride, happy in the memory.
ing, intercontinental phone call that they exchanged what he called “the three scariest words a man could ever utter – ‘I love you.’”
Sky asked his father and grandfather to serve as best men. The
bride found the one-of-a-kind dress of her dreams. Her garter was Air
When he faced the end of his
Force-blue and she tucked an old
April leave, he “couldn’t go an
bobby pin in her hair. Borrowing
ocean away from this woman with-
paper five minutes before the wed-
out making her mine.” On a last-
ding, she finally had time to write
minute proposal day-for-two, her
her wedding vows.
grandparents took care of Leah’s
Leah surprised him by flying
two young daughters, whom Sky
in the celebrant, Chris Quinn,
has since adopted. They visited his
Sky’s pastor when he was a youth.
hometown of Kimmswick, then
“It made us feel so loved to see our
saw Art Hill in Forest Park at sun-
friends and family members come
set. He forgot an opener so they
to celebrate the start to this life-
drank bottled water in wine glass-
long journey with us,” Sky said.
es, borrowed a cigarette lighter to
Leah recalled a favorite mem-
ignite her favorite vanilla-scented
ory as she joined guests with her
candle and he stumbled red-faced
father and grandfather overlooking
over his proposal as they ate Burger
the winery. ”Out of all that I could
King meals from a picnic basket.
see, there was Sky just waiting for
Acknowledging herself a “crying
me. As I came down, his eyes were
mess,” she accepted Sky’s proposal
always on me.” Sky said his “forev-
and hastily-bought $150 ring.
er” image at that moment was “the
Planning to marry during his
same angel I first fell in love with
next leave in August, she forfeited
five years earlier, standing at the
sleep to seek his input to quickly plan “an old-fashioned and beautiful” wedding, symbolic of their relationship, on Aug. 1, 2015, at rustic Crown Valley Winery in Ste.
‘She was smart, kind and had a smile that could keep a place lit for years.’
top of a hill dressed in white and looking at ‒ of all people ‒ me.” During the ceremony, Leah and Sky and their girls poured sand together and the couple gave
Genevieve. It would be summer-bright with yellow sunflowers and
roses to their mothers. Sweet treats at the reception included wed-
white daisies.
ding-colored M&Ms. Children enjoyed special fun just for them
Sky staged a second proposal upon arrival. Notes on a rose-petal
A giant sparkler display sent them off on the bride’s first airplane
path led to candle-lit bubble bath, a new red Italian dress and shoes
ride to honeymoon in Sanibel Island, Fla. It won’t be their last trip
ready for their date. A stretch limousine whisked them to Tony’s for
together. Leah and daughters Riley and Allie left in January to help
dinner, later to Art Hill where dessert came complete this time with
Sky fulfill his two-year commitment in Italy.
a diamond ring. His same question yielded her same answer. Leah saved tasks for him to help fulfill more wedding dreams. He cut a bamboo archway for a silk drape to frame the ceremony.
His bride said, “It is all very exciting. His beautiful and big, genuine heart is intoxicating. His honesty and morals run to the core of who he is, a very genuine, old-fashioned sort of man.”
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PA RT Y PL A N S GATHERINGS
8
CELEBRATE! WAYS Your wedding reception may be the biggest, busiest, most costly part of the event recogniz-
[ DO ] Brainstorm.
ing your union. However, other parties oriented to the wedding also can include friends and relatives joining your celebration along the road to matrimonial bliss. Take a deep breath. The bridal couple need not sponsor
resources and gumption, gather the masses and celebrate! This gathering can be anything you want, from sleek black-tie cocktails to an informal picnic in a park. Let the reception stand on its own
every party. Sometimes they gaze lovingly
later. The basic intent is to introduce all
into each other’s eyes and graciously gather
the parents, and perhaps wedding attendants
good wishes of friends and relatives. Picking
as well, to each other early in the engagement
and choosing from assorted ideas, you will be
period. This can be over cake and punch or
ready for eight times the fun, whatever your
filet mignon. It can be as simple as inviting
resources or comfort zone.
all parents to a meet-and-greet at a
1
ENGAGEMENT PARTY
You’re getting married! Let it be known. Parents of the bride usually offer to host this first celebration, but any close friend may have the honor. An independent pair may host it. Rather than a party, written announcements or save-the-dates are equally acceptable.
152
This likely
will be a small affair, but if there are generous
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convenient location.
[ DON’T ]
Don’t invite anyone
who will not be invited to the wedding. The occasion may seem informally planned. Don’t register for gifts for an engagement party. Loving and friendly congratulations is your “present.” Don’t overspend. Early budget concerns may prompt hope for a post-honeymoon bash using (hopefully) leftover funds.
2
BRIDAL SHOWER
[ DO ] Wait for the surprise.
Most bridal showers are kept secret until they happen. The bride is usually honoree with or without the groom. If you suspect several are planned, ask hosts/ hostesses to combine them so nobody feels left out or overburdened. Be practical. Opening presents “raining” from 80 guests takes hours. If asked to suggest guests, be thoughtful. Only a few sentimentally close, out-of-town friends who cannot come will be honored by the thought.
[ DON’T ] Don’t plan your own shower. And don’t let your mother plan it either. Let a friend, bridesmaid or distant relative offer to be hostess. Don’t invite anyone to more than one shower. Exceptions may be your mother and future mother-in-law. Guests should not feel obligated to buy a present for each party. Do not invite every woman on the wedding guest list. There should be adequate seats and snacks.
3
BRIDESMAIDS’ LUNCHEON
This event planned by the bride-to-be occurs close to – perhaps within the week or a few weekends before – the wedding date. Its purpose is to spend quality time appreciating the women helping you with and through the event.
[ DO ] Get creative.
Invite the girls for champagne or Cokes. Hang together at a favorite restaurant or meaningful location. Take everybody to the spa. Incorporate lunch. Grab appetizers at a new place. Distribute bridesmaids’ gifts. Monitor time and energy. If busy schedules cannot squeeze in one more event, send each attendant a heartfelt note promising a one-on-one occasion later, suggesting a general time which you put on your calendar.
[ DON’T ]
Don’t schedule this party for the night before or very close to the wedding, especially if drinking is involved. Don’t do anything you’ll regret. This event should be a positive memory. Don’t crash your fiance’s bash. You will be the only one embarrassed.
5
REHEARSAL DINNER
This event gathers people after a ceremony runthrough an evening or two before the wedding to let both families mix before the wedding. The groom or groom’s family generally plans and picks up the tab.
Weddings By: A Division of Creve Coeur Camera
[ DON’T ] Don’t work on anything related to wedding plans. Create a “nowork” zone. Skip last-minute touch-ups, tweaking and – it’s crucial – extra stress. Don’t forget moms and other close females. Invite them to be one of the “girls.” Invite only the ladies closest to the wedding.
4
BACHELOR/ BACHELORETTE PARTY
This pre-wedding stress reliever has become known as a night of revelry hosted by bride, groom or attendants.
[ DO ] Have fun with a purpose.
It is your “last night” as a single, but more importantly, the night is for bonding with pals. Distribute gifts to the wedding party. Make a toast to your spouseto-be, though not present. Use good judgment to assess guests’ meaning of “fun.”
Eight ways to celebrate your union. StLouisBestBridal.com Bridal Marketplace
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[ DO ] Invite inner ring. [ DO ]
Only consider this option if offered by someone with time and resources.
Include everybody with a part in the ceremony: wedding party, officiant, out-of-town guests, close family. Invite spouses, not dates.
Keep it simple. Make guests feel
rehearsal dinner can be a multi-course meal at a fancy restaurant, light but nourishing hors d�oeuvres or even a barbecue in the groom’s backyard. It may serve as a “landing” meal for guests ending their travel day.
[ DON’T ] Bride, groom and immediate families need not attend. They should focus on the ceremony and settle last-minute jitters. Guests nosh, greet and check schedules with a designated “expert.”
Dress for “special.” Whether
headed to diner or museum, guests of honor should dress appropriately.
Consider guests’ preferences.
POST-RECEPTION PARTY
Try to make each person feel comfortable. A party at the roller rink or bowling alley where you met may sound meaningful to you, but others may not feel a warm connection. After all, your guests are closest in your lives.
[ DON’T ]
Don’t skip this dinner. It is important that families interact in the big day’s spirit. Even if the groom’s parents have feuded longer than the Capulets and Montagues, hope for a reunion.
6
Many couples do not want to miss a minute of their own party and want to extend time with guests gathered in their honor.
[ DO ] Keep it safe.
WEDDING BREAKFAST
Breakfast is a way to appreciate out-of-town guests on the morning of the wedding.
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service for contracted transportation.
8 7
special rather than full with bagels, pastries and fruit along with coffee, tea and juice. A meal is not expected. At this time, a person in-the-loop can field last-minute questions and plans.
Set the tone as dress-up or casual. A
Supply a means to travel there. This is an expanding
during the occasion.
A location determined in advance often near a designated hotel for guests becomes a destination after the
reception time ends. Design for ease. Alert staff that a group will come. Decide in advance if the bride and groom will pay any part. Keep in mind official closing times.
Circulate the plan. Designate someone reliable to spread the news or share it in writing on the wedding website before or
[ DON’T ] The newlyweds need not revel until dawn. Consider the honeymoon itinerary. Etiquette has not evolved yet on this new fun. Be mindful of finances.
NEXT-DAY BRUNCH
For the last time, the newly-formed family comes together before heading home. Only someone close should sponsor this extra event.
[ DO ] Keep it manageable.
Everyone should be happy, smiling and packing to leave. Set up a picnic close to home or arrange a simple , informal buffet in a small room at the hotel where most guests stay. End early.
Accept graciously an offer
from a grandmother or someone who can plan and pay for a last-minute view of close family and friends. A bride and groom who attend may concentrate on engaging with guests they saw only briefly the day before.
[ DON’T ] Don’t get caught up trying to attend this last-minute “hug.” If honeymoon timing runs tight, it would be proper for the couple to forgo socializing with guests again.
St. Louis’ Best Bridal
StLouisBestBridal.com
BRIDAL SHOW ! IN W N O ACATI
aV
for 2
The Best Weddings Start Here Whether you need one item or are just beginning the plan, you’ll find it at a St. Louis’ Best Bridal Show or Event.
St. Lou
WEDDis’BI est NG VEN
Sunday, February 28
DORS
11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch irst
The f
100 -be es-to
brid ceive a e will r GIFT!
FREE
Sunday, July 17 Noon to 3:30 p.m.
Orlando’s Event Centers Maryland Heights
A chance to win exciting prizes Delicious hors d’oeuvres, music and drinks St. Louis’ Best Bridal Fashion Show, featuring the most elegant and popular wedding gowns Guidance of the area’s best wedding specialists
Win a Funjet Vacation!*
COURTESY OF:
TICKET INFORMATION Brides-to-be: Watch for special admission offers from St. Louis’ Best Bridal or get complimentary tickets, while supplies last, at area Savvi Formalwear locations. Admission is $5 (cash only) at the door. Businesses wishing to exhibit should call 314-475-1202 for more information.*Must be present to win. Some restrictions apply.
F E AT U R E CAKE DIVE
BRIDES AND GROOMS DIVE
A
Sweet Treasure dozen brides-to-be swept icing from their eyelids to see what they had
earned in St. Louis’ Best Bridal’s 2015 Cake Dive held July 19 at Orlando’s Event Center in Maryland Heights. The future brides enhanced their natural sweetness by heading ‒ literally ‒ into a fivetiered cake made for the event by McArthur’s Artisan Cakes. To find the plastic rings with prizes for their weddings hidden in the cake, St. Louis’ Best Bridal organizers gave them T-shirts and tiaras with veils made-just-for-them, as well as goggles and flip-flops to encourage them to stay tidy as possible and avoid using their hands to uncover prizes. Their matching ward-
robe identified them among the many women who attended the Bridal Show in the hope of being chosen at random to participate. One lucky diver received an award that
Chosen at the bridal show Sunday, July 19, to participate in the St. Louis’ Best Bridal 2015 Cake Dive were Patty Burnett, Brianne Butler (below), Bridget Calandro, Jillian Chadwick, Haley Ferguson, Jennifer Ferguson, Pam Green, Katie Huckeby, Nikki Lupardus, Jessica McKenzie, Katilyn Olsen and Kim Watts.
the correct address on the invitation, almost
featured as a Love Story in a St. Louis’ Best
gave up.
Bridal publication after they are married.
“I said, ‘Oh, let’s just go ahead,’” Nick recalled later after she secured the prize at the
EVENT SPONSORS
Bridal Show and Cake Dive. “We got here just
In addition to the trip from Travel Haus of St. Louis, Funjet Vacations, El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels by Karisma and St. Louis’ Best Bridal’s Love Story, gifts were provided by Walter Knoll Florist, Belleza Salon & Spa, Adorned Occasions, McArthur’s Artisan Cakes, Orlando’s Event Centers, Dillard’s Registry, Savvi Formalwear, The Ultimate Bride and Trotter Photo.
about at 2:30 when registration would end.” Flowers, gowns and other prizes rounded out the dozen rewards for 11 other bride-tobe cake divers: Pam Green, Jessica McKenzie, Haley Ferguson, Brianne Butler, Patty Burnett, Nikki Lupardus, Jennifer Ferguson, Kim Watts, would be a bonus to use after her wonderful
Katie Huckeby, Kaitlyn Olsen and Jillian
wedding day. (Above) Nick Eshelman did not
Chadwick.
mind a congratulatory hug and kiss with fian-
ed items the couples could use
after she uncovered an all-inclusive trip from
right away – such as tickets to
Travel Haus of St. Louis with Funjet Vacations
St. Louis’ Cardinals games, spa
and El Dorado Resorts.
items and an engagement photo
The lucky couple first drove to the wrong
session – to credits for decor,
location for the event. Arriving in early after-
cake, tuxedos and gown to use at
noon at the Orlando’s Event Center in south
their unique, upcoming events.
St. Louis County, their car was the only one on the parking lot.
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One couple will receive a night’s stay at the Lodge at
Bridget, realizing they had not noticed
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Gifts at the 10th annual cake dive includ-
cee Bridget Calandro, still decorated in frosting
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Grant’s Trail and another will be
T
welve grooms-to-be warmed up to
easy to trade prizes for a perfect fit.
feel the love in Ford Plaza for the 2nd
Engaged in mid-July, Alissa Ontiberos and
Annual Groom’s Cake Dive sponsored by St.
Jack Hanten quickly booked a site for their
Louis’ Best Bridal before the baseball game on
favored date of Aug. 20, 2016, so they traded
Saturday, Sept. 5, at Busch Stadium.
away an Orlando’s Event Centers gift package
Each wore a gentlemanly T-shirt printed with a tuxedo effect and donned goggles and flip-flops to dive into a multi-layered wedding
for a gift from The Bridal Shoppe, giving Alissa a head start at finding her gown. Maggie Roberts and Doug Rieber celebrated more than the cake dive. Maggie has been undergoing chemotherapy out of town for a rare cancer. On Aug. 14, a CT scan showed no evidence of the disease, so she could stay in St.
✤
Doug Rieber and Margaret Roberts
Louis for treatment.
✤
Robert Capriglione and Sarah Reis
Their gift was an engagement photo session
✤
Kenneth Hunter and Karen Durham
with Trotter Photo. “That was not in our bud-
✤
Jason Dothage and Angie Jones
get and (we are) glad we will have photos to frame and keep forever,” Maggie said later. Participants – “dream teams,” as one pair dubbed the crew – were:
cake for prizes. They were chosen to step up
✤
Steven Thomas and Stephanie Whetstone
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Travis Schepker and Brittany Joseph
✤
Jack Hanten and Alissa Ontiberos
✤
Mitch Duffield and Marianne Sicking
✤
Michael Elliott and Nakia Billups
✤
Todd DeWees and Maggie Dust
✤
Dale Davis and Dominic Siebert
✤
Jim Petersen and Ali Holmes
EVENT SPONSORS Travel Haus of St. Louis, Funjet Vacations and El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels by Karisma, Savvi Formalwear, Saint Charles Convention Center, Walter Knoll Florist, The Bridal Shoppe, Trotter Photo, Trotter Photo Booth, McArthur’s Artisan Cakes, Orlando’s Event Centers, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Exceed Limo, Panache & Promises, Grand Rental Station.
to the plate from more than 300 couples who submitted their photos online for an STLtoday Contest. Top vote-getters were invited to dive face-first into a cake prepared by McArthur’s Artisan Cakes, not using their hands, to find reward certificates tucked inside. Cheerleaders rooted as if the hometown bases were loaded in the bottom of the ninth inning of a tied ball game. Prizes included gift packages for a vacation getaway, gown, photography, tuxedoes, rehearsal, flowers, beauty items, wedding cake and more – including a Love Story in a St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine. Finalists received four tickets to enjoy the game, food and beverages in a party suite after the dive at Busch Stadium, so couples found it
Well-dressed grooms-to-be rev up to bury their faces in a wedding cake from McArthur’s Bakery to find prizes. Participants were Steven Thomas, Travis Schapker, Jack Hanten, Mitch Duffield, Michael Elliott, Todd DeWees, Dale Davis, Jim Petersen, Doug Rieber, Bob Capriglione, Kenneth Hunter and Jason Dothage.
FUTURE NEWLYWEDS DIP INTO CAKE AND FROSTING FOR UNIQUE REWARDS SPRING & SUMMER 2016
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PA RT Y PL A N S TRIP FOR 2
21 HONEYMOON TIPS Both you and your new spouse should decide together on honeymoon choices. Check with other couples about their specific trips, near or far, to get ideas and suggestions, but don’t let them talk you into taking their trip. Make it your own. Be specific about your own individual preferences. Just as importantly, decide on a budget and stick to it. Tend details early so you can delight in your own wedding images as they happen.
MAKING ARRANGEMENTS ✤ Discuss budget. ✤ Once you’ve decided, book ahead, including
extras like spa appointments, etc. Don’t overschedule, especially on the first few days. ✤ Research the area as much as possible. Make
✤ Keep all identification in the same name to
avoid security delays and confusion. ✤ Check charges for cell phone use at destination. ✤ Purchase travel insurance for the unexpected.
WHAT TO PACK
a tentative itinerary of what you might do,
✤ Put name + address both inside, outside bags.
where to go and what to see.
✤ Take basic, comfy, mix-and-match clothing.
✤ Check details, such as hidden charges and
guarantees. Find out if you can get a refund if dates need to be changed. ✤ Splurge and do at least one thing that is unique
and different. ✤ Check out the weather during the time you
plan to honeymoon, as well as the annual forecasts for possible travel later.
Add fun accessories and a romantic outfit. ✤ Pack an extra empty bag to carry or send
souvenirs and mementos of your trip. ✤ Take your camera, bring extra batteries and-
memory card. ✤ Pack chargers. ✤ Break in a shoulder bag for day trips.
IT’S IN THE BAG
REMEMBER THE PAPERWORK
✤ Itinerary, maps, guidebooks, directions.
✤ Make sure you have a valid passport, if
✤ Sunscreen.
required, and/or any other required documen-
✤ Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss.
tation, such as a medical insurance card and
✤ Emergency numbers.
international driver’s license.
✤ Necessary medications, including motion
sickness remedy, and a sense of humor.
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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
SPR E A D T H E N E WS WITH GRATITUDE
Top 6 ways to say ‘thanks’
Dex(ter) added his gratitude on photos taken at Creve Coeur Park on May 30, 2015, the day Jennifer Wirtz and Ryan Schonhoff were married. | PHOTO COURTESY OF ARNDT & CINEMA PHOTOGRAPHY
HANK YOU GRATEFUL ACKNOWLEDGE THOUGHTFUL BEST HOW TO USE WHERE TO PLACE NAME OF GIFT SWEET UNIQUE IDEAL OUTSTAN DROUS ROMANTIC SHARING MEMORABLE KINDLY PRESENCE SENTIMENTAL PERSONAL LUCKY HAPPY DAY THANK YOU GRATEFUL ACKNO UGHTFUL BEST HOW TO USE WHERE TO PLACE NAME OF GIFT SWEET UNIQUE IDEAL OUTSTANDING WONDROUS ROMANTIC SHARING M
QUICK RETURN SEALS SINCERITY EXPRESSED IN MEANINGFUL WORDS. The grander the thought, the greater should be the gratitude. With multiple
1. Say “thank you” aloud, then keep track
5. Before and after the wedding, newly-
of gifts and tags with a master list. Include
weds can divide the task of responding to
where and when the gift was given; address,
gifts. Perhaps each can be responsible for his
relationship and contact information of the
or her own relatives and friends, then divide
giver; when a thank-you was sent; other
the remaining mutual list down the middle.
helpful information.
There also might be a self-imposed daily
opportunities to express thanks along the wedding route, words spoken sincerely and
2. Notes that say “thank you” simplify the
often will be cherished for years to come.
start. Ordering extras with save-the-dates or
Etiquette suggests thank-you notes be hand-
invitations saves time and money.
written soon after the occasion – expedient for
turns addressing and writing. A gift that misses its mark deserves similar attention for thoughtful intentions.
the bride and groom responding to gifts in a
3. Sentiment may be short, but should
box as well as those given from the heart by
be direct and meaningful. Use words like
parents and relatives, friends and acquaintances.
“memorable” and “thoughtful” that tug the
Like your wedding, it is a once-in-a-lifetime
heart. Don’t overdo it unless you mean it.
are easier to engage. Good form expects a
4. Each individual in a pooled gift should
enthusiasm wanes with time, the task is easier
receive a separate note of thanks.
to address, literally, as quickly as possible.
opportunity. Find your stationer and spread the word StLouisBestBridal.com Bridal Marketplace
160
quota. For another couple, a timer defines
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
6. It is wise to address the task soon after the wedding when memories and sentiment response within a year of the wedding. Because
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