Emerald Coast Brides Magazine

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Open, Focus, And Connect

®

The Official wedding guide of the Emerald Coast

Volume 3

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Issue 3

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Fall 2009

PUBLISHER & MANAGING EDITOR Ginger W. Plunkett

W

elcome to the pages of Emerald Coast Brides latest issue! We are pleased to assist you with connecting to the best wedding resources the Emerald Coast has to offer. While wedding planning can be overwhelming, this magazine is designed to assist you in connecting with talented wedding suppliers to organize your big day.

We have taken special care to provide you with useful tips in our feature articles to assist you in a variety of areas. Find great information on wedding registries, pets in the wedding, name changes, and etiquette for paying for the big day. We have also featured real weddings that showcase the works of the many expert wedding suppliers at the Emerald Coast. You can also find more of their works highlighted in the Just Details section.

Once again, we have put together a superb tool for you to use as you begin building your dream wedding. So, simply open your copy of Emerald Coast Brides, focus on the details you love most, and connect with the wedding experts featured inside our pages!

You have the best of the best at your fingertips! Now, we look forward to seeing the details of your big day.

We wish you the best of planning as you build your dream design for your big day!

Warmest wishes,

DIRECTOR OF SALES Adriean Johnson Cooper ART DIRECTOR Benita G. Duff Blessed Wind Productions CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Loretta Moore Elizabeth Link Kim Maniscalco CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Rae Leytham Photography Dede Edwards Photography Kim Stone Photography Patsy Brown Photography Mari’s Paradise images Vue Photography JRD Photography SilverQuest Photography Birdsong Photography Bob Armor Photography COVER PHOTO PROVIDED BY Patsy Brown Photography COVER BRIDE Elizabeth Benson Frank Cichostepski, Photographer CORPORATE OFFICE Pro-Media Group Inc. P.O. Box 7550, Oxford, AL 36203 Printed in the USA

Ginger Plunkett Managing Editor

photo by Kim Stone Photography

No portion of this publication may be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without the express written permission from the publishers. All advertisements, editorials, and/or press releases are accepted and published

by Pro-Media Group Inc. d/b/a Emerald Coast Brides on the representation that the advertising company, the supplier of the editorials and/or press releases are authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof.

The advertising, advertising company, the supplier of editorials and/or press releases will defend, indemnify and hold Pro-Media Group Inc. d/b/a Emerald Coast Brides, harmless from and against loss, expense or other liability resulting from any claims or suits for violation of privacy, plagiarism, libel, copyright or trademark infringement and any other claims or suits that may arise out of such advertisements, editorials and/or press releases.

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contents

V o l u m e 3 I s s u e 3 Fa l l 2 0 0 9 • w w w. E m e r a l d C o a s t B r i d e s . c o m

8 Four Points Resort 14 Wedding Favors & Gifts 12 Natalie and Kevin Schmidt 15 To Have or Have Not:

37 A Rare Jewel on the Water:

40 Maneuvering Through the World of

Pros and Cons of Taking His Name

18 Photo Collage 20 How To Include Your Pets in Your Big Day 23 Wedding Gowns 30 Paying For Your Big Day:

SunQuest Cruises, Solaris

An Investment of Love

34 Sarah and Preston Wallace

Wedding Registries

43 Just Minor Details 53 Feature Your Wedding 54 Jessica and Matt Teplicek 56 Lawn…Sand & Lodging 59 Bridesmaid Gowns 66 Crystal and London Parfitt 69 Dear Liz

Background photo by Rae Leytham Photography

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the Perfect Venue

for

YourPerfect Occasion

I

magine celebrating your wedding day with the love of your life while overlooking the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico and feeling the soft, sugar-white sand beneath your feet. If you’re looking for unmatched personal care and attention to detail for your destination wedding, the exclusive Four Points by Sheraton Destin-Fort Walton Beach offers just that.

This full-service hotel with complete banquet facilities and on-site catering boasts a professional catering staff managed by Dayley Gunnels.

The Four Points by Sheraton team will take great care to see that no feature is overlooked. The best part of all is how relaxed you’ll feel as everything is taken care of for you. So no matter if you’re planning an

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intimate, formal dinner with crisp, white linens and fine china for forty-to-fifty guests, or a large, buffet-style soirée for up to 200 guests, Four Points by Sheraton can accommodate everyone in your party and create the celebration of your dreams.

If your heart is set on having both your wedding and reception outdoors, rest easy knowing the Four Points by Sheraton is located on privately owned beachfront property and has everything you’ll need to make your paradise wedding and reception the events you’ve waited for all your life.

and soaking in the sun is more their style, they’ll be thrilled to relax in the warmth of a hot tub or take a refreshing dip in either the beachside or courtyard pool.

As an added bonus, guests will find cool beverages available at Kiwi’s Beachside Bar and Grill (open June through August). They can even grab a quick bite to eat at Dempsey’s Lounge or enjoy a nice, sit-down meal at the Paradise Cove Café. The go-getters in your group will appreciate Four Points

by Sheraton’s convenience to some

continued next page

Four Points by Sheraton is a tropical retreat that sits on nine acres of beautiful, white-sand beaches located on Florida’s famed Emerald Coast and provides you and your guests with an array of amenities. All guest rooms have fresh, new décor and feature the Four Points by Sheraton Four Comforts Bed, as well as an inroom refrigerator, a microwave, high-speed internet access and beach towels.

Your guests will love working out in the atrium fitness facility or taking a leisurely stroll in the tropical courtyard. If swimming

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Visit Four Points by Sheraton Destin-Fort Walton Beach online at www.fourpoints.com/destinfwb or call (850) 243-8116 for more information. By mentioning this article when booking your reception, you’ll receive a complimentary bottle of champagne at your event. The team at Four Points by Sheraton is ready to serve you and create the perfect event for your wedding celebration. •

of the Emerald Coast’s best shops, restaurants and entertainment. There’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy!

Four Points by Sheraton has a dedicated staff and catering team whose goal is to provide you with a unique and comfortable experience. The hotel has been a fixture in the area for more than 20 years and specializes in creating one-of-a-kind weddings, receptions, socials, holiday parties, corporate events and more.

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Natalie & Kevin Schmidt

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atalie and Kevin are definitely the definition of high school sweethearts. They first met as freshmen, started dating as sophomores, and dated all the way through college. Neither of them will ever forget their first date. Natalie is six months older than Kevin so she had to pick him up and drive him on their first date when he was only fifteen!

Natalie and Kevin are not good at keeping secrets from each other.

They always end up telling each other about Christmas gifts before Christmas! Because of this, Natalie told Kevin that she definitely wanted to be surprised whenever they became engaged. Kevin was able to deliver on her request! She came home from college one weekend to celebrate his birthday and he surprised her! He took her out for a beautiful lunch and proposed on the beach. The best part was that even their families were surprised. No one knew Kevin was

h

Natalie and Kevin Schmidt were married June 20, 2009 at Carillon Beach, Florida

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going to ask Natalie except for her father! Once they told their families, the night became a birthday/engagement party.

The Carillon Beach wedding location was absolutely breathtaking. This perfect setting allowed the natural beauty of the gorgeous venue to be incorporated into the big event. The location was perfect for the couple’s dream wedding. They got married in a small chapel overlooking one of the very few dune lakes in the world. They were not even a block away from the beach so the design inspiration was very natural with a little bit of color from the flowers. Natalie adored the solid oak cross that they covered in white and pink hydrangeas. It hung right above them as they said their vows. Since San Francisco was the honeymoon destination, they wanted to incorporate a little bit of wine country into the reception.

The additional color of the bridesmaid’s dresses brought everything together quite nicely!

Victoria Volpone of Carillon Weddings, handled all the details for the special day. Victoria expertly handled all deadlines which was very important with Natalie being out of state. Natalie was finishing her internship at the

University of Alabama and Kevin was starting his new job. Victoria executed a flawless wedding.

The couple’s favorite detail from the wedding was their guest book. Instead of having guests sign a book, they signed pieces of linen that will be used for a quilt. Some of their favorite quotes from their quilt: “ Congratulations to the band nerd and the cheerleader,” “May the best of your past be the worst of your future,” “Today is the first day of the rest of your lives,” and lastly, “In the fairy tale of life, may this be your happily ever after.”

Noveau Flowers provided the breathtaking flowers and arrangements. The colors chosen included pale pink and white dahlias, white and pink hydrangeas, pale pink and white garden roses, white cataleya orchids, sweat peas, jasmine, and lily of the valley. The pale mixture of flowers tossed with the natural beauty of the muted white and cream ones created a perfect arrangement.

The bridesmaids carried bundles of different colored sweat peas. Natalie’s favorite part of her bouquet was the ribbon that held it all together. She saw it in a magazine and her maid of honor hunt it down from a wedding in Santa Barbara, CA to a ribbon store in New York! It fit in continued next page

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perfectly while serving as her “something blue.”

Natalie wanted the wedding cake to look very traditional.

The cake topper was the same one her grandparents and parents used. The cake was very classic and beautiful on the outside while the inside was interesting as each tier was a different flavor.

her mother wore it, she added lace and pearl beading around the neckline. The dress was over 50 years old so it wasn’t exactly wedding ready. Natalie decided to have the seams reinforced. She had the dress cut short and created a sash to wear it to the rehearsal. Everyone adored the dress and thought is was wonderful to see it used for three generations.

The bride spent countless hours searching online with the help of her sorority sisters for the perfect dress. Natalie, her mother, godmother and the maid of honor, all went to Atlanta for a wedding preparation weekend. They had fitting appointments lined up all day but Natalie fell in love with the very first dress she tried on and that was it! Although she had her own unique dress, Natalie was very fortunate to be able to incorporate the wedding gown that her mother and grandmother wore. The dress was simply too beautiful not to have been a part of her wedding. Her grandmother had the silk imported from Italy to hand make the dress. When

Natalie and Kevin both agree that the most memorable moment was sneaking away from the tent and dancing with one another under the lights. The night was nearing an end and they spent that special moment remembering all they could of their perfect wedding day! Vue Photography captured all of the events of this special day.

Kevin and Natalie are loving life as newlyweds! They are working on perfecting their first home with their puppy, Harley. They have some dream vacations in mind before starting a family. •

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To have or have not: the pros and cons of taking his name

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By Kim Kessler Maniscalco

ust days after I was married a colleague was introducing me to a friend of hers, and I literally fumbled my way through saying my name. I had never been introduced by my married name, and, to be quite honest, I forgot I even had a new name until my maiden name was already rolling off my lips. So it came out something like, “Hi, I’m Kim Kes-uh, um, Kim-uh-Maniscalco.”

time choosing your first and middle names, and one day in the notso-distant future, you might find yourself searching for a name with a special meaning for your own child. But last names are different.

You don’t get to choose the surname given to you, but when you marry, the choice is all yours.

You can imagine my embarrassment and the good laugh we all had when I explained I was a newlywed still trying to “learn” my married name.

It is estimated that 90 percent of women in the U.S. take their husband’s name when they marry.

Still many women struggle with the decision between keeping their maiden name and taking their husband’s.

Everyone knows that names carry a lot of weight in our society, and name associations are strong. Your parents likely spent a great deal of

If you feel a strong connection to your maiden name, don’t stress.

After all, it has been your identity for as long as you’ve lived. Everyone

knows you by that name, and the thought of changing it could cause you to feel as though you’re losing a part of yourself. But rather than feeling like you’re giving up your name, think of it as gaining your partner’s. By marrying, you are essentially agreeing to become a team, to be united. And one last name for your new family will prove much easier down the road, especially when children enter the picture.

To be sure, there may be circumstances when it is easier to continue using your maiden name. If you are an established professional and feel that changing your name could negatively affect your business, you should consider keeping your maiden name or

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hyphenating your new name.

And if your married name is going to be awkward (think Julia Gulia in The Wedding Singer), redundant (Leigh Lee) or in some way indecent (I’ll spare you the possibilities), you may want to stick with your given name. You could always change your name legally and still go by your maiden name socially. As a word of caution, though, don’t resist taking your husband’s name just because your family, friends or co-workers are pressuring you. Take the time to talk it over with your fiancé, and go with what works best for you as a couple.

Along the way, don’t forget to keep your future offspring in mind. If you choose to keep your maiden name, your children will either be given Dad’s name or Mom’s name (making it appear to some that one of you is not the children’s natural parent or that they were conceived out of wedlock).

Another option is to give your children a hyphenated version of both of your names, which may be difficult for them to understand. For example if you’re “Kate Carter” and he’s “Jack Jones,” your child could be “Anna Carter-Jones.” There are even entire families who have meshed the two last names and refer to themselves – including the husband – by the hyphenated version (e.g.

Jack Carter-Jones). This seems like a highly unlikely option for most men, though. If you’re just worried about your family name living on, it’s far easier on everyone to simply pass on your name as a first or middle name for your child.

On the other hand, women who have chosen – for various reasons – to keep their maiden names often find that others consider them to be overly independent of their husbands.

Some people think it is selfish or in some way a sign of insecurity to hold on to a maiden name.

But only your future husband and you know what’s right in your situation.

If you don’t really want to keep your full name or hyphenate your new one, consider using your maiden name as your middle instead. (This is what I’ve done, and it has given me the satisfaction of keeping my family’s name while embracing my husband’s, too. Plus, I like my new monogram better.) If your middle name is so special that you can’t bear to part with it, another option is to simply add your hubby’s name to the end of your full name. By doing so you can hold on to all three (or more) names your parents gave you and still share your husband’s.

Sure, it all seems a bit overwhelming, but you’ve probably already got your heart set on what name you’ll take (or keep) when you wed. If you think your decision will upset your husband, his parents or your own, sit down with them and let them in on how you’re feeling. The important things when marrying are the love and admiration you share with your future spouse, and as long as your choice is being made with respect for him and yourself, everything will work out fine. •

90% It is estimated that 90 percent of women in the U.S. take their husband’s name when they marry.

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HOW

by Elizabeth Link

to include your pet in your BIG DAY! Y

our wedding is a day that should be shared with those you love. Your parents, best friends, and extended family should all be included in your special day. But what about your dog or cat? Many couples parent a family dog or cat before they get married, so it is only natural to want to include that “special someone” into the festivities. However, you need to make sure it is done in safe, and of course, undisruptive manner.

Finding a Venue

If you are planning a destination wedding on the sand, make sure the beach you are getting married at allows dogs, as well as the hotel and reception area.

Before the ceremony, take your animal to the location to get him or her accustomed to it. This is especially important if you are bringing your dog to a beach ceremony. Dogs love to dig, so make sure that your dog won’t be trying to find things in the sand, while

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you are saying your vows. If you find a venue that will not allow your animal, you can try to incorporate your pet into other activities. If you are planning on taking pictures outside of the venue, have someone bring your pet so that he or she can pose for those pictures before the ceremony. If your animal is comfortable in vehicles, you can also have him or her on a bus or tram with you and your wedding party on your way to the location.

Posing for Pictures

Wedding photos with the family pet can be the most adorable in the album. However, they can also be the most difficult to take. Between getting all the family members together and making sure your little Fido or Fifi stays still, you could end up wasting much time and energy trying to get the perfect shot. The best way to prepare for pet photo ops is to take your animal to training before the event. This way your animal can prepare to stay still when you ask him or her to do so.

You will also need to practice exposing the animal to the camera’s flash. Some dogs are particularly afraid of the flashes, so you should start exposing them to cameras more at home by letting them smell the camera and become comfortable with it. On the big day, schedule all the shots with your pet first, so that there is less stress on the animal and on yourself.

Etiquette for Including Them

Although it may be only natural for you and your fiancé to include your pet in the wedding, understand that your family and friends my not be as excited. Make sure that everyone is aware that your animal will be at the event, and be ready to tell them what preparations you have

taken to make sure everyone is comfortable. If you have relatives that are particularly allergic to animals, try to make sure that the ushers seat them away from your pet. If you have a particularly large dog or if you are including a less traditional animal in the ceremony, such as a lizard, bird, or ferret, then you should let parents know in advance if they plan on bringing their children to the ceremony. You don’t want crying to interrupt your I do’s or for the kids to try to play with the animal during the ceremony.

Finding the Perfect Outfit

When picking out an outfit for you pet, make sure to get several options. Often times, the attire can be tricky to put on or uncomfortable for the animal, leaving him or her scratching and picking at the clothes. Make sure to find something comfortable for the animal and that it is taken off as soon as possible. In the case of animal attire, less can be more, so if you can, stick with an adorned collar or wedding-style shirt. To further make sure that your dog or cat looks stylish for the wedding, book an appointment a few days before the event at a pet spa.

Shade and Hydration

After your companion has performed at the ceremony, make sure there is a designated spot for him or her to sit, and someone to keep it company. If you are having a beach ceremony, make sure to check the forecast so that it is not too hot for the pet. You might need to get a colorful umbrella to keep your pet in the shade and make sure to have a matching water bowl around as well. To avoid heat problems, make sure to get your pet indoors as soon as possible after the ceremony. By continued next page

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designating a specific friend or relative to watch your pet, you can make sure that the health of your family companion is looked after during the ceremony. The person can also make sure to take your pet elsewhere if he or she becomes too ancy or disruptive during the ceremony.

By following these guidelines, you, your friends and family, and your pet should all have an enjoyable wedding experience.

Just remember, even if little things go wrong and your animal barks, purrs, or tweets during the ceremony, those are often the little memories that make the day special. Just relax and go with it. After all, your pet will. •

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An Investment of Love

Paying for your Big Day:

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By Kim Kessler Maniscalco

f you’re like many Americans, your wedding will be the one of the most expensive events of your life just behind the purchase of your homes, automobiles and college tuition. With that being said, it’s important to openly discuss your wedding budget with your groom and his family. Deciding who will pay for what can be as simple as your groom and you sharing all the expenses equally, or as complicated as your family and you, as well as your groom and his family, choosing what you will cover, respectively. The important thing is to keep your expectations in-check and allow everyone involved in paying for the wedding to make decisions about the big day.

Customarily, the expense of the wedding ceremony is the responsibility of the bride’s family. But in situations where the bride is independent or no longer relies on her parents for financial assistance, it is completely appropriate for her to pay for the ceremony and other wedding costs. However, many parents still insist on paying (in-whole or in-part) for their daughter’s wedding, regardless of her age or income.

There is no set-in-stone rule about how to divvy up the wedding bills, but here’s a simple guide to help you on your path to wedded bliss.

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The bride and her family are responsible for: Ceremony – This includes renting the church, facility, beachfront property or other venue for the wedding. Some venues charge a fee for their own wedding coordinators, so be sure to ask about any additional charges you may incur.

Décor – Expect the decorations to consume a large chunk of your budget. Flowers, candles, bows and other decorative touches are important parts of your wedding theme.

Gown, Accessories & Beauty Treatments – Your gown is such a personal, meaningful purchase, so make sure you find the one that best flatters your figure and makes you feel fabulous. Know ahead of time that you’ll likely spend a pretty penny on it, as well as any accessories (e.g. veil, headpiece, jewelry, shoes, etc.) you choose to wear. Also expect to pay more for wedding-day hair styling and make-up, as they generally take longer to perfect.

Invitations – the cost of invitations and other paper goods – announcements, save-the-dates and programs – can vary greatly depending on the number of guests you invite. Consider the cost of postage when choosing your invitations, as square envelopes will cost more to mail. Double your postage allotment if you plan to send response cards. Note: It is not appropriate to send a response card if you do not include postage on the response envelope.

Photographer & Videographer – While it might seem more economical to “have a friend” do the photos or video of your wedding, a professional will best be able to capture the perfect shots and footage of your special day. This expense is worth every dime!

Reception – Expect to spend the majority of your wedding-day budget on the reception, including the venue, tents, tables, chairs, food (including cake), drinks and wait staff. Remember the reception is your way of thanking guests for coming to celebrate with you, so think of them as you plan it. Don’t forget to calculate the cost of a deejay or band into your budget as well.

Transportation – You can count on having to pay for the wedding party’s travel from the wedding to the reception, as well as to the hotel from the reception. Many people rent a limousine or other unique vehicle, but you may ask a few people to drive their own vehicles, if needed.

Lodging – If some of your guests are traveling great distances to the wedding, consider paying for (or at least offering to pay for) their hotel accommodations. This is a very nice gesture, but not a requirement.

Attendant Gifts – More often than not, bridesmaid gifts are items they can use for the wedding, such as jewelry, comfy flip flops for the reception, or a cute bag for carrying all their wedding-day necessities. These gifts can cost as little as a few dollars or be very lavish. Let your budget dictate how much you’ll spend.

Gifts for the Groom – You should plan on purchasing the groom’s wedding band, as well as another gift for your husband-to-be. The gift can be inexpensive, as long as it is something meaningful. continued next page

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The groom and his family are responsible for: Engagement Ring – This quite possibly is the most important, lasting purchase of a man’s life. Women spend days – if not months – looking at rings, deciding which styles they like and dreaming of how their sweetheart will propose. Note to grooms: the ring you choose is very important, but the love you share with your bride far outweighs the carats in it!

Marriage License – There’s no getting around this one. You must purchase a marriage license, and most states require that you become legally married within 30 days of its issue date, so be sure to time your purchase appropriately. Be aware that some states require a blood test before the marriage license can be issued.

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Flowers – It is customary for the groom and his family to pay for the bride’s bouquet. They also are responsible for boutonnieres for the men in the wedding and corsages for the mothers and grandmothers.

Rehearsal & Dinner – Help your groom and his parents select the right location, food, décor and entertainment for the rehearsal dinner. While the wedding rehearsal is a more serious time to go over the course of the ceremony, the rehearsal dinner should be intimate and fun. After all, it’s a smaller version of your wedding reception and it’s attended by your closest friends and family.

Formal attire – Your groom and his family should expect to foot the bill for their own wedding ware. Tuxedos can be more costly to rent than suits or items already in a man’s closet – like linen shirts, khaki pants, etc. – so just be sure the groom’s attire and your gown complement one another.

Officiant Fee – The groom is responsible for paying the officiant for his or her time. This is very important and easy to forget, so remind him!

Groom’s Cake – An additional cake may not be necessary for smaller wedding receptions, but particularly in the South, the groom’s cake is a fun tradition. It can be a cute or funky way of reflecting the groom’s favorite sports team or hobby.

Attendant Gifts – These can be as simple as gift cards or as personal as engraved cufflinks. You can help your groom decide how much to spend on these gifts based on what his budget allows.

Gifts for the Bride – The groom should plan on purchasing your wedding band, as well as another gift for you. Just as with your gift to him, your gift from him can be inexpensive, as long as it is something meaningful.

Honeymoon – The possibilities are endless! This can be as expensive or as inexpensive as you wish. If you’re having a destination wedding, consider staying in paradise several days after the wedding to celebrate!

No matter if your groom and you decide to pay for your wedding yourselves or to accept the help of your families, be sure to keep a level head during financial discussions and focus on the importance of your relationships with your families. You will never regret being kind and generous when it comes to decisions about your wedding day. Try to remember that your wedding is simply one day in what will be a lifetime of sweet memories. •

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Sarah Lynn Jones and Preston Dolan Wallace were married on August 29, 2009. Sarah is the daughter of Jerry and Cheri Jones. Preston is the son of Harry and Pamela Wallace.

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Sarah & Preston Wallace

ne thousand students filled the hallways at the United States Merchant Marine Academy. It is hard to believe that two people could be so close together without actually getting to know each other. There were the occasional “hellos” but they were basically strangers.

That changed in the final month of their senior year as the class of 200 students prepared for graduation. An individual misfortune brought Sarah and Preston together.

Preston was in Quantico, Virginia, undergoing training for service in the Marine Corps. Shortly after his arrival Preston tore his ACL which put his training on hold. Preston used this injury to put his proposal into motion. The couple had joined the Wallace family for Thanksgiving. Knowing that he wanted to propose in the traditional way, he used the recent injury to his advantage. As everyone gathered around the kitchen island, Preston dropped to one knee as if he were in pain. Sarah was quickly by his side asking if he were okay prepared to help him off the floor. Then she noticed the huge grin on his face and the ring box in his hand.

Preston spoke some absolutely touching words and laughed at the fact that Sarah was so gullible. His grandmother’s

diamonds made a beautiful ring which he placed on Sarah’s outstretched hand. This began a relatively short engagement that the couple spent mostly apart.

Sarah and Preston both aspire to be successful military pilots so the perfect location for the wedding was the Aviation Memorial Chapel at Naval Air Station in Pensacola. Father Jack Gray presided over the traditional Catholic ceremony with a complete mass. The musical accompaniment of Marilyn Alvarez brought tears to the eyes of most in attendance. Another military touch was added to the ceremony as Preston, his best man, and his three groomsmen adorned their service dress Marine Corps uniforms. What could make this military wedding more complete? A sword arch! The six member Marine Corps soldiers presented a sword arch showered in rose petals which marked the conclusion of the wedding and the beginning of the celebration!

Renee, a local Pensacola designer was responsible for the dress. It was a white taffeta dress. It had a halter top with a cathedral length train, and pearl sequenced accents pinched

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the fabric up given the skirt a very light, pillow look. The back was a corset and it bustled in an American style bustle. Each of the three bridesmaids wore tea length rose petal pink dresses with wine accents.

Each dress was a different cut to fit the bridesmaid’s personality.

The vibrant floral arrangements by Celebrations (the florist) and the rose pink bridesmaid’s dresses added beauty of August to the traditionally decorated chapel. All of the flowers were a mixture of white, cream, pink, and wine colors. This included the brides bouquet and the bridesmaid’s flowers.

Beautiful white and pink roses, big white lilies, miniature pink roses, softly colored dahlias, wine colored cal lilies, and various other flowers made up the display of flowers. The arrangements and bouquets were loose and airy. Each mother held a handkerchief with a rose during the ceremony. The fathers and the ring bearer wore single winecolored miniature cal lilies. The flowers at the ceremony were dedicated to the memory of Preston’s grandmother who was a very important person in his life.

Most of the guests were from out of town so the flowers were donated to Sacred Heart Hospital.

Photos by Rae Leytham Photography

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The bridal party and guests were transported by limousines and party buses to the National Naval Aviation Museum for cocktail hour. Rae and Wesley Leytham stole the radiant couple away for an intimate photo session.

As they were having their beautiful memories captured on film, Ron Ralph of A DJ got the party started while everyone waited for the arrival of the new Mr. and Mrs. Wallace. Scrapbook pages for the guest to sign rather than the traditional guest book were available.

This was to help keep the wedding memories in one book. A basket filled

with pink and white sandals for the ladies, and black sandals for the men was provided for the guest. The couple wanted the guests to let their feet loose “Florida style.” A pomegranate martini (a favorite of Sarah) was offered to the guests. The scene had been set with an extensive candy bar with candies in the colors of the wedding.

Extra walls and amazing floral arrangements helped in creating a more bridal atmosphere in the Blue Angel Atrium. The tantalizing aroma of the food from the Mustin Beach Officer’s Club helped in creating the atmosphere of a wonderful celebration. Leaves spray painted gold with pink ribbon were used for napkin holders and added beauty to the tables. A kid’s corner for all the little ones to color, play games, and eat (with a babysitter) gave the adults an opportunity to be free and enjoy the festivities.

The cakes were created by Betty Weber. The cakes were “absolutely amazing.” The groom’s cake was a chocolate, chocolate chip sheet cake.

Chocolate icing covered the sides while the top was designed to resemble a Scottish flag. Little tuxedos (in white and dark chocolate) were placed around the base. A sporting testament to fondant beauty was the three-tiered,

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multi-flavored, polka-dotted bride’s cake. The bottom layer was classic vanilla with strawberry filling, the middle layer was lemon with white frosting filling, and the top (which is being saved) was red velvet. Pink and wine colored polka-dots covered the three-tiered round cake. A mixed monogram sWp was placed on three of the dots. In lieu of a traditional figurine cake topper, this cake had sugar flowers on the top!

Ron Ralph of A DJ insured that the reception was not a dud.

He facilitated everything from the cocktail hour to the last dance. A mixture of music filled the air… country music, old rock, and newer “top 40’s.” The electric slide, a conga line, the YMCA, a few old college fight songs, and the chicken dance rounded out the traditional wedding reception antics.

A special song was presented by a few of the Navy guys in the form of a serenade. “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling” was echoed as they all wore sunglasses. The maid of honor’s little sister caught the bouquet and her boyfriend caught the Marine Corps digital camouflage garter. This caused quite a commotion.

back to the Marriott in a limousine. After changing, the couple greeted their out of town guests in the lobby and prepared for the after party!

The honeymoon has not yet taken place. Since Sarah and Preston are in the military the honeymoon will take place later down the road when they can take the time to do it right. At this time Sarah and Preston are both in different phases of their training and live in different cities, states, and time zones.

Preston lives in Quantico, Virginia, progressing through basic training with the Marine Corps. Sarah lives in Milton, Florida as she works her way through primary flight training with the Navy. •

Since the couple was not leaving on a honeymoon the next day, they stayed through most of the reception. As they prepared to leave the DJ announced the couple and they made their way 36 • EMERALD COAST BRIDES www.EmeraldCoastBrides.com

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A rare jewel on the water…

SOLARIS

by SunQuest Cruises

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rides and grooms are constantly searching for the right venue for their nuptials, and none is more unique than saying “I do” aboard the Solaris by SunQuest Cruises. This spacious entertainment yacht features three decks with two enclosed, climate-controlled dining salons that provide the perfect space for worry-free events all year long, regardless of weather conditions. The third, a 1,400-square-foot sky deck, is the perfect setting to watch the tropical sun set into the shimmering waters of Choctawhatchee Bay. Aboard the Solaris, a bride can relax and take her time preparing for her wedding in the private bridal dressing suite, then wow her groom and wedding guests at the ceremony on the sky deck’s bridal

platform. Unlike others, wedding ceremonies on the Solaris are guaranteed to be memorable, as its breathtaking views and refreshing sea breeze are completely unique from day to day. And whether the bride’s dream wedding is coastal casual or extravagant elegance, she will find that matchless touch she’s looking for.

A rare jewel on the water, the Solaris offers amazing scenery and fresh ocean winds. This exclusive vessel is the Emerald Coast’s only dining and entertainment yacht and is the perfect spot for rehearsal dinners, weddings, receptions or private parties. It has a fullservice event planning team, a catering staff and a beautifully appointed bar. continued next page

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Quick Facts about Solaris • Docks at the beautiful Baytowne Marina at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort • Designed for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners and other celebrations • Boasts 5,300 square feet of space • Allows guests to capture amazing views on the 1,400 square foot sky deck • Accommodates 150 guests as they dine, dance, cruise and celebrate

The Solaris can accommodate up to 150 guests and allows them room to dine, dance, cruise and celebrate!

After all, the luxury ship was designed with celebrations in mind and has played host to a variety of gatherings, including weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, family reunions, military reunions, anniversary parties and birthday celebrations. Family and

friends will stand in awe of the panoramic views, which can be enjoyed on all three decks of this elegant liner.

In addition to the extensive list of amenities, the chef ’s special-event menus are sure to help a bride plan the dining courses for her event. The impressive wine list and live entertainment will add to the ambiance of a

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wedding celebration and enhance the experience for guests of all ages. The special event team works to insure every celebration is handled professionally and turns out just as the guests of honor desire.

If yummy martinis and tropical drinks are what guests desire, the bar can mix their drinks to perfection. They’ll find just the right beverage to go along with one of the menu’s fresh seafood entrées or delicious prime beef tenderloin dinners. There’s even a menu suited for children 10 years and younger.

Couples who have wed aboard a Solaris cruise give shining reviews of their experience aboard this amazing yacht. They note

the staff’s close attention to detail and appreciate the beautiful décor on each deck of the ship, all of which highlight their cherished wedding memories.

So, it’s appropriate when the Solaris team says, “You bring the dress, let us do the rest!”

Visit www.sunquestcruises.com to request information on reservations and pricing for your group or privately chartered event. If you’d like information by phone, call (850) 650-2519 or e-mail Gwen Hall, director of sales & marketing, at info@ sunquestcruises.com. •

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by Eliz abeth Link

hoosing items to register for can be an interesting process. On the one hand, picking out gifts is a really fun activity. On the other, it is the first time you and your fiancé will be picking household items together. With patience and the proper know-how, you can politely navigate through the world of registries and successfully decide what to ask for to where to register, so that you get the things you need for your new life without offending any of your wedding guests.

When To Register

You should register 1-3 months before you send out your wedding invitations. If you are also setting up a wedding website, you can list your registry and even link to it. If you are having a

formal engagement party, you can register earlier.

However, you shouldn’t list the information about your registry on your engagement party invitations.

If guests feel inclined to ask about it, you and your family can politely pass along the information.

This is also the polite method when having a bridal shower.

What Items Should Be On The Registry

These days, couples register for anything and everything: formal china, scuba equipment, trips to exotic islands, you name it! But, just because you can register for non-traditional wedding items, doesn’t mean that there isn’t a polite way to do so. First, let’s look at where you should register.

Traditionally, couples would register at a large

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department store to ensure a wide variety of gifts.

However, with so many specialty stores around now, it has become common to register at multiple places. As a rule, you shouldn’t register at more than 3 retailers. It is also good to make sure that at least half of the places allow for online shopping.

This shows that you care about your guests’ time and want to provide a convenient option for them.

Traditionally, couples registered for china and other necessities for the new home. Although this is less common these days, especially with most couples either already living together or having separate, fully furnished residences, it is a good idea to register at one standard retailer for household items. This will make more traditional members of the family feel more comfortable with their purchase.

If you and your groom are outdoor enthusiasts, it is perfectly acceptable to register at an outdoor or sporting goods store. If guests have questions about the choice, your family and friends can simply state that the two of you bike/camp/ scuba regularly. However, you should not register for outdoor and sporting goods in the hopes that you will use them. These gifts are to help the two of you start a life together, not rack up toys you have always wanted. In addition to outdoors store, other

appropriate retailers for a registry include furniture stores, wine and cheese shops and electronics stores (as long as you don’t register for a giant plasma screen).

Registering for a Honeymoon

While it is becoming more common for couples to register for a honeymoon, it is a good idea to also register at a more traditional location. When registering for a honeymoon, make sure to itemize the trip so guests can see what they are giving you specifically. For example, they can pay for part of your hotel stay or part of the flight. Although your honeymoon will no doubt have more expenses , such as dinners and site-seeing, it is not appropriate to add those expenses to the honeymoon registry.

Registering for Cash?

Many couples simply want cash as a wedding present. Although this is understandable for many couples that are trying to purchase their first home together or pay off some debts, it isn’t appropriate to ask for it as a wedding gift. If you are having a very small ceremony and choosing not to register, your family can let relatives know about the wedding and

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the fact that you haven chosen not to formally register. They can even tell people that you and your groom are saving for a home.

However, you and your family cannot specifically ask or hint at a cash gift. Many relatives may feel inclined to send money, while others will simply purchase a gift or gift card for you. To avoid any uncomfortable situations, register at a simple department store, so that relative who are comfortable sending money can and those who are not, can still feel like they are contributing to your new life.

wedding, ideally you should complete them within the first 2-3 months after the ceremony. Make sure to keep track of all the gifts and write in the note how you will use the item or how nice the item looks. Making sure you get your

Thank You notes out in a timely manner will make all the difference in the world, and make your guests feel like you truly appreciated not only the gift, but them participating in your big day. •

Keeping Track of Your Registry

Yes, it is important to monitor your wedding registry.

However, anxiously checking your email 20 times a day to see if anyone got you that professional espresso maker is not appropriate. Stores that offer registry purchase notifications are a great tool to help you make sure there are always a good variety of inexpensive and pricey gifts. This way, guests won’t feel obligated to spend out of their price range.

And yes, registry notifications give you a chance to sneak a peek at what people have bought for you. After all, you need to start mentally planning where everything will go, right?

The Thank You Notes

If your mother is anything like mine, she has been hammering the importance of Thank You notes into your brain since childhood. Well, she was right. While some say that it is polite to get your Thank You notes sent out within a year of the 42 • EMERALD COAST BRIDES www.EmeraldCoastBrides.com

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photo by Kim Stone Photography

photo by Kim Stone Photography

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Flowers

photo by Rae Leytham Photography

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Cakes photo by Rae Leytham Photography

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Cake photo by Kim Stone Photography

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kes photo by Rae Leytham Photography

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photo b photo by Rae Leytham Photography

photo by Kay Meyer Photography

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ography

photo by Birdsong Photography photo by Rae Leytham Photography

photo by Rae Leytham Photography

photo by Rae Leytham Photography

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photo by Birdsong Photography

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Jessica & Matt Teplicek

there he was positioned on one knee. She realized that it was her new monogram! He asked the question and Jessica said, “Yes!” Next, Matt took her to dinner where the next phase of his proposal had already been set into motion. Both of their families were waiting at the restaurant to celebrate with the newly engaged couple. It was a wonderful evening and perfect for Jessica and Matt.

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Jessica and Matt Teplicek were married July 18, 2009 in Panama City, Florida.

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essica and Matt first met at the 18th birthday party of a mutual friend in June of 2003. Jessica is the daughter of Bob and Betsy Hayes. Matt is the son of Jeff and Connie Teplicek, and Hoot and Diane Crawford.

The couple became engaged when Matt set into motion a well- planned proposal. Matt purchased a key chain engraved for Jessica that displayed her new monogram. He was aware of the fact that Jessica monogrammed everything.

Matt created a story that he had purchased a gift for their friends. Matt told Jessica that he needed her to check it out before the friend could give it to his new wife. Arriving at Jessica’s house he nonchalantly tossed the key chain onto her bed. When she picked it up and looked at it, Jessica realized that it was all wrong! As she turned to tell Matt,

They were married on July 18, 2009 at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Panama City, Florida. The reception was held at Tyndall Air Force Base at the Officers Club. Ceremony music was performed by the couples close friend. They often joked about the fact that they had never heard her sing. So, they asked her to sing at the wedding. The performance was wonderful.

Although Jessica’s father is a minister, he participated in the traditional role of giving away the bride. At the end of the vows he had an opportunity to do a very special part in the wedding…. he announced the couple as Husband and Wife.

This was a meaningful moment for the couple. Also taking part in the wedding were two other ministers. One included bride’s cousin who baptized her as a child and Matt’s pastor who is near and dear to them both. Having these amazing Godly men involved was a special addition to the beginning of their new life together.

The bride walked down the aisle wearing a gorgeous gown by Pronovias called Divina. The dress was bright satin white. It was strapless accessorized with crystal bead detailing at the top. The veil was lined with the same crystal beads. A comb allowed the veil to be elegantly placed under her curls, and flowed elegantly down to her waist.

The bridesmaids wore floor length jasmine B2 dresses in Tahiti

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blue. Each dress had a strapless neckline with an A-line chiffon gown, poly chiffon pleats at the waistline and a drop sash on the side of the skirt. The groomsmen wore black tuxedos with blue vest and ties that matched the bridesmaid’s dresses.

During the wedding, the bride carried white roses with Stephanotis.

The stems were wrapped in blue and white to match the blue of the bridesmaids dress and the white to distinguish the brides from the bridesmaids. Bouquets carried by the bridesmaids were white roses with a hint of greenery held together by blue ribbon which matched their dresses.

At the church four tall silver candelabras were filled with flowers and greenery. Four ferns were placed with the candelabras. On the communion tables with a backdrop of a stain- glassed window were two table candelabras with a fern in the middle. The church was stunningly elegant as white roses and greenery filled vases. At the reception hurricane glasses rested on mirrored plates. These glasses were filled with blue water that held floating candles. This adorned the reception area. One- Stop Flowers provided the gorgeous array of flowers and greenery.

A beautiful cake with three-tiers was covered with fondant icing. Pear shaped dots elegantly decorated the cake with blue piping around the bottom. The cake was also adorned with blue ribbon. On the top level a beautifully monogrammed letter “T” was placed to represent the union of the couple. Angela Bowden designed the special cake.

The reception was held at the Officers Club on Tyndall Air Force Base. The food was catered by the staff of the Officer’s Club.

Entertainment was provided by husband and wife DJ’s, Bill and Sandy Hinson. A variety of music filled the air allowing all the wedding guests to dance. After dancing to their final song by Aerosmith, Jessica and Matt exited the reception through a shower of bubbles blown by their guest. Waiting to whisk them away was a car decorated by the wedding party. “The Way You Make Me Feel”

by Michael Jackson was playing as the couple entered the car and made their exit. Window art, tons of toilet paper, yarn and cans were hanging from the back of the car which fell off before the couple arrived at the hotel for the evening. The couple later departed for

their honeymoon in Nashville, Tennessee.

The memories of their wonderful day were captured

by Victor Ramos of Silver Quest Studios. The happy couple is enjoying married life in their home in Lynn Haven, Florida. • Photography: Victor Ramos/Silver Quest Studio, www.SilverQuestStudios.com 850-229-9353 Florist: One-Stop Flowers, Callaway, FL 850-763-3978 Cake: Sugar Art by Angela 850-832-6685 DJ: Bill and Sandy Hinson Caterer: The Officer’s Club staff at

Tyndall Air Force Base Wedding gown and bridesmaids dresses: The Bridal Loft Tuxedos: Black Tie Formalwear, Panama City, FL 850-785-2437

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Lawn¬…Sand & Lodging

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he Lawn on the Beach is a spectacular site in Seagrove Beach, Florida, near Santa Rosa Beach, that’s sure to take your breath away. Its perfectly manicured lawn overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and allows brides and grooms to have it all in one location – a wedding on the beach and a reception on the lawn – just steps away from their beach house.

“The Lawn” is the ideal location for the couple dreaming of a sunset wedding and a twilight reception where cool sea breezes and barefoot dancing are enjoyed. The Lawn’s meticulously landscaped turf will give guests a soft place to pad around sans-shoes straight off the beach, while the gulf-front views set the mood for an evening to remember.

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This unique beachfront venue, owned and operated by Pearly White Properties, allows brides and grooms the total flexibility of renting their wedding site and arranging their accommodations in one easy step. With three lovely beach houses available, couples may opt to rent one, two or all three homes, as needed for their wedding event. They can even choose their own wedding service providers, and The Lawn can be set up to meet each couple’s specifications. This eliminates the need to rent two or three separate venues.

to 250 guests, The Lawn boasts plenty of space and privacy for a couple’s special day.

Guests will be amazed at the beauty of Pearly White’s three adjoining beach properties – Triple Crown, Above It All, and Sunsational. Each is unique, offers a private, heated pool, and has exclusive access to The Lawn on the Beach. continued next page

Almost a decade ago, Pearly White Properties, LLC, began as a vacation rental business. After hundreds of calls and inquiries from brides wanting to have weddings and special events at the company’s vacation rentals, they came up with the perfect solution.

Just two years ago, they created a large, outdoor Gulf-front wedding and reception venue and called it “The Lawn on the Beach.” Its burst of emerald green grass against the contrasting powdery white sand provides the perfect setting for a beach wedding and reception. And with room for up

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Triple Crown is a 10-bedroom property that can accommodate up to 30 guests. Above It All has six bedrooms and sleeps 20. Sunsational is a six-bedroom luxury beach house with accommodations for 20 guests. Regardless of each couple’s occupancy needs, one or more of the properties at The Lawn is sure to provide just what they’re looking for.

Additional information about “The Lawn on the Beach” is available online by visiting www.pearlywhiteproperties.com and clicking on Weddings & Occasions. For reservations and tours, contact Karen Bennett at (866) 294-5833 or karenbbennett@aol.com. •

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Crystal & London Parfitt were married August 27, 2009 in Cape San Blas, Florida

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Crystal & London Parfitt

ittle did Crystal Allison and London Parfitt know that their friendship, which began nearly 17 years ago in the halls of their junior high school, would lead them down the path to a lifetime of wedded bliss.

Fast forward a few years, the then-dating couple decided to get together after work to grab a bite to eat. When London asked Crystal what she wanted for dinner, her response was, “a corndog.” So London, who works as part of a trendy Nashville restaurant management team, and Crystal, a sports entertainment manager for Nashville’s Sommet Center, headed to a local ice skating rink where they happened to have had their first date. They enjoyed their corndogs, strapped on their skates and went for a few laps

while reminiscing about memories they shared.

When it was time to go, London got on his knees to help Crystal remove her skates. Little did she know he was about to pop the question! With Crystal cornered on the bench (so she couldn’t get away), London’s perfectly planned proposal went out the window. It instead came out, “So, you wanna spend some time with me?”

To Crystal’s surprise, London had pulled out a beautiful ring and was asking for her hand in marriage. She immediately said “yes,” and he slipped the ring on her finger.

Afterward, the two held hands as they took a stroll in

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Nashville’s historic Centennial Park. They enjoyed just taking in the moment among the park’s fresh blooming trees while sun set in the distance.

In the days leading up to their nuptials, Crystal and London got a jump start on their wedding arrangements by arriving five days early at their beach house in beautiful Cape San Blas, Florida. By doing so, they were able to take care of all the last-minute details, steal away for a few romantic moments together and enjoy time with their parents, Kelly and Linda Allison and Chris and Sarah Stemmer, as well as guests who were in town for their wedding.

The night before the wedding, guests enjoyed a delightful meal at Port St. Joes’s Sunset Coastal Grill, a favorite of the bride and groom.

Up until the day of the wedding everyone enjoyed great weather, sunny skies and calm seas, which made for a marvelous vacation. But as the time for Crystal and London’s wedding neared, a strong line of storms rolled into the area and threatened to wash out the event. Not wanting to move everything indoors, the bride and groom instead opted to move up the time of their wedding by one hour, praying that the rain would hold off just long enough for them to get through the ceremony.

So on the afternoon of August 27, 2009, with storms all around, Crystal and London exchanged vows beneath an amazingly colorful sky as the sun broke through a canopy of ominous gray clouds over the cape.

A gentle mist of rain fell as London and his “best dog” Charlie headed down the aisle toward their bamboothatched altar – which was handmade and adorned with ivory chiffon swags and cymbidium orchid pendants – but within seconds, the clouds parted and thrilling rays of sun shone down on the wedding party and across the sparking water.

A few moments later as Crystal made her entrance down a small path overlooking the beach, dolphins were seen splashing in the sea, almost as if they were celebrating!

With the Hawaiian version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” playing, Crystal flowed barefoot toward the altar alongside sea grass-laden dunes. All the pieces were in place for their seaside dream wedding.

Pastor David Nichols performed the Baptist ceremony and afterward introduced the newly married Mr. and continued next page

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Mrs. London Parfitt. The pastor then instructed the guests to stand and shower the bride and groom with bird-friendly rice, which he described as a symbol of love, prosperity and (his emphasis) fertility! The crowd went wild with cheers and laughter and began pelting the Parfitts with the special baby-making rice. (Secretly, Crystal and London think their mothers, Linda and Sarah, launched handfuls of rice their way.)

in the sky above their sun-drenched wedding site. It was a rainbow!

London’s bride looked flawless in her ivory A-line silk chiffon gown by San Patrick for Pronovias, which featured a sweetheart neckline and sweep train. She carried a bouquet of chartreuse cymbidium orchids and pale green and white roses accented by green berries and foliage, all wrapped in rich green grass and secured with chartreuse ribbon. The bouquet and other flowers were arranged by Lynn Carr of Bayside Florist and Gifts. Crystal’s ensemble was accented by a beautiful pearl and diamond pendant necklace and matching earrings, both of which were surprise weddingday gifts from her groom. Heather Miller styled the bride’s hair, which featured up-swept curls adorned with an organza and silk flower.

The intimate reception featured tables dressed with tall cylinder vases that were filled with water, black river rocks and stalks of chartreuse dendrobium orchids. A single floating disc candle finished off each centerpiece. The chef ’s table was decorated with palm fronds and a variety of exotic tropical flowers. Guests mingled as they enjoyed catering from Jodi Perez’s Provisions, Inc., and listened to the sounds of Crystal and London’s most memorable songs while small video screens displayed photos chronicling the couple’s years together.

The flower girls, 7-year-old twins Jada and Riley Miller, carried satin baskets that held chartreuse cymbidium orchids, which they tossed high in the air as they proceeded down the aisle. Three-year-old ring bearer, Austin Tyler Stemmer, politely tried to pick up the blooms behind them adding, “You’re dropping the flowers, Jada and Riley.”

The couple’s furry family member, Charlie, donned a white tux collar and wore a ring-bearer pillow.

After the two wed, guests headed off to the reception site while photographer Kim Stone captured dynamic photos of the bride and groom. With Crystal and London back at their beach house to grab a few things before heading to the reception, they took a few moments to enjoy the view from their balcony. To their surprise, a splash of color appeared

By the time the newlyweds made their way to their reception at the Barrier Dunes Club House, two amazing rainbows had formed in the sky. It was a breathtaking display, which Crystal describes as “a blessing on an already magical day.”

Guests also dined on delectable treats from Lulu’s Sweet Expectations. The mini wedding cake featured 100 petit fours and 100 white chocolate strawberries, while the groom’s “grill” cake – chocolate cake with delicious butter cream frosting – was a hit. The groom’s cake included fondant-sculpted mustard, ketchup, hotdogs, bun and a paper plate. As a special treat for the “best dog,” Lulu even created a Charlie-friendly cake with a sculpture of the couple’s furry friend on top.

The Parfitts, who have made their home in Nashville, chose to forego a honeymoon trip immediately after their destination wedding and opted instead to plan for a long European adventure in the summer of 2010.

Crystal and London’s fairytale wedding story proves there truly is a treasure at the end of the rainbow…especially on Florida’s Emerald Coast! •

68 • EMERALD COAST BRIDES www.EmeraldCoastBrides.com

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Dear Liz Dear Liz,

and me’ don’t drink much, but I want something that I am flying to Florida and I have to change planes on the everyone will enjoy. way. I’m worried about flying with my wedding dress; If you don’t have a favorite cocktail to adapt for the what if it gets really wrinkled? What if gets lost? What is wedding, then choose something that coordinates the best way to travel with a wedding dress? with your wedding theme. If you are having a beach There are several options available to make sure that both you and your dress make it to the wedding. If you don’t want to carry the dress onto the plane, you can mail it to the destination in advance. This will avoid the hassle of carrying it between flights. If you or a relative is driving to the destination close to the time of the wedding day, you should consider taking the dress then, and arrange to leave it with someone you trust. If taking the gown on the plane is your only option, the safest way is to carry it on the plane with you. If the dress is sleek, you can easily place it in the overhead above. If you have chosen a full, princess-style gown, you may need to purchase a seat for it, to make sure it doesn’t get crushed in the overhead. No matter what option you choose, look into purchasing wedding insurance if you have spent thousands on your gown and are worried about transporting it. Although it might cost a little extra, it will relieve some of the stress on you before the big day.

Dear Liz,

I really want to have a signature cocktail at my wedding, but I don’t know what or how to pick one. My fiancé

wedding, choose something fruity and light like a monitor or a mai tai. If you are having a casual affair, you might also want to consider a margarita or daiquiri bar for the event. It can be a fun addition for the guests, and if done right, it can even save you money on the bar tab. If you are having a night wedding, try a specialty martini for the event, or even a coffee-based cocktail. Several bartending websites online offer a variety of recipes for special cocktails and you can even find a recipe based on the type of alcohol you prefer. If you are looking for more ways to tie-in your drink to the wedding, you can accessorize the glass with flowers, sparkles, or even wrap the glass with a ribbon and the initials of the couple. No matter what cocktail you choose, just remember to keep the affair classy by leaving the shots for the bachelor and bachelorette parties. You don’t want your guests getting too drunk at your wedding.

Dear Liz,

My fiancé wants me to include his sister as one of my bridesmaids. I do like her, but we don’t have anything in common. How do I politely tell my fiancé that I don’t want her as a bridesmaid? continued next page

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Family relations during a wedding can be tricky, especially with the stress of planning a wedding.

If you don’t want your future sister-in-law to be a bridesmaid, then that wish should be respected.

Tell your fiancé that although you like his sister, you want your bridesmaids to be those closest to you. Be prepared to offer alternative ways for the sister to be involved with the ceremony as an usher, reader, or even a groomswomen at her brother’s side. By showing that you understand how important having your future sister-in-law involved is to you, your fiancé and his family should understand.

Dear Liz,

I am getting married in December. Is there anything special I should know about planning a Christmas wedding?

The biggest consideration for planning a Christmas wedding is availability. You will need to book the venue, caterer, and flowers further in advance since their schedules will also likely be booked for holiday parties. It will also be important for you to get your save-the-dates sent out well in advance.

Airlines and flights will be more expensive and in demand during the holiday season, so guests will need to make travel arrangements earlier to avoid high prices. You will also have to contend with some of your loved ones unable to make the event due to other holiday engagements. Having a Christmas or New Year’s wedding can definitely be a fun and festive experience, just be prepared to

spend a little more time planning to make the day great.

Dear Liz,

My fiancé’ and I are on a budget, but we really want to have a photographer and videographer at the wedding. How can we do this without spending a lot of money?

There are several ways to stay within your budget and still have beautiful memories of your day. One way to save money on a videographer is to find a place that can do both photos and video of the event. This can save you from purchasing multiple packages from separate vendors. A second option is to limit the number of hours that the photographer and videographer will be at the event. This will force you to condense some of the photos and video you may want, but it will ensure that you have a record of that day with all the sights and sounds that you remember. Another way to save money is to purchase the bulk of the photos after the wedding when you can afford them. If hiring a professional if out of range, you can try to film the wedding yourself. Several venues only allow video cameras to be stationed in the rear, so you can set up a video camera for the wedding and have a family member monitor it during the ceremony.

You can also save by giving the guests disposable cameras so that they can take snapshots of the day or by designating a video message area at the reception. •

To have your destination wedding questions answered please submit them to: ginger@pro-mediagroup.com.

70 • EMERALD COAST BRIDES www.EmeraldCoastBrides.com

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