St. Louis' Best Bridal Spring/Summer 2016

Page 1

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

Restrictions may apply. ©2014 Wellbridge

*

THE SPA IS OPEN TO NON-MEMBER GUESTS

WellbridgeAthleticClubandSpa.com FIND US ON FACEBOOK

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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CHAMELEON IMAGERY

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FORTE PHOTOGRAPHY

KEITH LEE STUDIOS

KEITH LEE STUDIOS


VOTED BEST ST. LOUIS BRIDAL SALON!

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Falling inLove AT THE FALLS

6

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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• 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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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.

ST. PETERS, MO / FAIRVIEW, IL / ST. LOUIS, MO

©2016 DAVID’S BRIDAL

FOREVER YOURS



♥ Elegant ♥ Located Off Hwy I-70 at Fifth Street ♥ Seating Up To 500

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16

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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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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

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✤ 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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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PAGE

53


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.

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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

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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.

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE


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.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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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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

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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.”

SPRING & SUMMER 2016

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47


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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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49


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

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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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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


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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.

58

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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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61


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.

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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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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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s e i r o m e m t e e sw

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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

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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

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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

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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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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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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

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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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

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

1,000

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

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

PAGE NUMBER

N

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

Y

Y

PAGE NUMBER

N

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

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Y

Y

Y

Y

N


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

PAGE NUMBER

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

SPRING & SUMMER 2016

8

N

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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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 }

106

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE


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

SPRING & SUMMER 2016

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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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

SPRING & SUMMER 2016

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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

112

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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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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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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

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(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

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

 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

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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

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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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another visit.

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

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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

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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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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.”

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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.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

One couple will receive a night’s stay at the Lodge at

Bridget, realizing they had not noticed

156

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

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

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

157


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.

158

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

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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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