Texas Weddings Winter 2021

FROM THE PRODUCERS OF AMERICA’S LARGEST BRIDAL PLANNING EVENT

Winter 2021

Visit the Venues

TOURS ARRIVE IN HOUSTON

Plan your Honeymoon here

4

REAL WEDDINGS

Trends, Gowns, Gifts

AND MORE

Bridal EXTRAVAGANZA Show JANUARY & JULY

CONTENT page

page

70

122

page

141

Features Billboard Bride. . . . . . . . . 122 The Bright Side. . . . . . . . . 141

Events Visit the Venues . . . . . . . . 85

Launches in Houston

Trends: Visit the Venues page

62

In Every Issue Editors Letter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Editor’s Pics: Laurette. . . . . . . . . 34 page

76

The Grand Hall. . . . . . . . . . 90 Mirage at Lake Conroe . . 96 15 Acres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Moffitt Oaks. . . . . . . . . . . 106 Lux Vita. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 The Estates at Pecan Park. . . . . . . . . . . 110

page

90

Travel Antigua . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 page

141

Real Weddings Ana & Todd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Mary & William. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Rachel & Connor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 David & Sean. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

-2-

-3-

editor's letter

Weddings are Happening!

I never thought we’d write about micro-weddings, encore weddings, streaming ceremonies or un-inviting guests; but we are. We cover topics that matter to you as we document rough times and recovery of the wedding and event industry. An emerging issue is vendors have a back-log of weddings they committed to before the Covid-19 outbreak; most of those weddings had to be rescheduled and are still on their calendars.

PHOTO BY IVAN GARCIA STUDIO

Wedding professionals report weddings look a little different these days, but they are happening. The advertisers in this issue and vendors exhibiting at the Bridal Extravaganza Show are ready to make your wedding dreams come true, however they have limited availability. If you meet a vendor you like be sure to book them as desired dates could be hard to come by in 2021.

We hope to inspire you with the articles in this issue.

From our Real Weddings, travel, and Visit the Venues, our venue tour, we’ve got you covered with wedding trends. Don’t let this stressful time get you down. At the end of the day, you’ll be married to your best friend.

Laurette

ON THE COVER Billboard Bride Lexi EDITOR IN CHIEF Laurette M. Veres MANAGING EDITOR Racheal Payne GRAPHIC DESIGN Goran Atanasovski PRODUCTION MANAGER Jeanine Hickman EDITORIAL Tiffany Wade Marisa Byers Karen Garcia Carolina Hernandez © Copyright 2021 Bridal Extravaganza Show PO Box 667399 Houston TX 77266 281-340-7777 H Texas Magazine – Texas Weddings Magazine

THE BRIDAL EXTRAVAGANZA SHOW WINTER AND SUMMER

-5-

-6-

-7-

-8-

-9-

- 10 -

- 11 -

- 12 -

- 13 -

- 14 -

- 16 -

- 17 -

- 18 -

- 19 -

- 20 -

- 21 -

- 23 -

- 24 -

- 25 -

- 28 -

- 29 -

- 30 -

- 31 -

- 32 -

- 33 -

This collection evokes images of decorations from the heart of Italy. The subtle blue color and reduction to simple graphical elements is reminiscent of traditional ceramics in the Majolica style. A unique feature of the Casale Blu Collection is the option to mix and match its pieces. Depending on personal taste, you can combine the primary blue décor with the pattern variations “Alda,” “Bella,” Carla” and Dorina,” or with the white Artesano Original collection. This creates a variety of possible combinations that add flair to every table by following the modern trend of mixing prints and patterns. @ www.villeroy-boch.com

courtesy photo

EDITOR’S PICS

An Italian Countryside Affair

courtesy photo

A Night to Remember MAKEUP BY SIMPLE BEAUTY ARTISTRY

A special & unique gift for the bride & groom... give a gift of the stars to always remember their memorable wedding day! The Night Sky makes an incredible gift and will be treasured for years to come. With this service, it is simple to create an 18" x 24" star map of the night the bride and groom said their vows! Each unique and personalized star map is printed on high-quality, Art Matte paper.

PHOTO BY IVAN GARCIA PHOTOGRAPHY

Laurette’s

PICS

@ www.thenightsky.com

A Box for the Win BoxFox offers gift box sets for the bride to be.

The Wine Veil

Something Blue ($40) This box contains the Brides Minimergency Kit from Pinch Provisions, Bling Wipes and Tiffany Blue ink pens from Le Pens.

- 34 -

Let’s Get Away ($90) Congratulate the bride-to-be with this adventurous box containing a Bucket List Book, PF Candle Co. candle, Leatherology leather tag, and Sugarfina Maple Bourbon Gummy Bears.

Happily Ever After ($120) Build a happy home with this box containg a Corkcicle Merlot Canteen for Wine & Drinks, Candle, Toffee, Sara Copeland book, “The Newlywed Cookbook,” and Gold Cheese Server.

Photo LMV

For the Bride ($75) Pamper the bride with Hydrating Face Mask, Sugarfina Champagne Bubbles, Face Mask and more.

courtesy photo

@ www.wineveil.com

The Wine Veil is a unique take on veils for any wedding. These are whimisical, romantic and are also excellent gifts for bride's maids, out of town guests and/ or anyone else who likes to be a little "extra" for the celebration, while keeping bugs out of their wine.

Sneak Peek At a recent wedding Cabo San Lucas, it was fun to see the creative team of florists arriving with their products.

@ www.HeidiKagan.com

courtesy photo

@ www.carthage.co

Toast to the couple’s story Well Told creates barware with detailed etched city maps wrapped around the glass. Give the lucky couple one glass with the city map of where they met, another where they had their first apartment, another of the wedding venue. . . you get the idea. Any town or city in the US is available! Also makes a great bridal party gift! @ www.welltolddesign.com

PICS

Quench Your Thirst Looking for something unique and affordable to give as a wedding present? Check out these neat…

2 pack gift sets from Tervis. With sayings like “Wifey and Hubby,” “Bride and Groom”…..plus many more…the couple is sure to enjoy this gift that gives back. It’s no surprise that the average American office worker uses about 500 disposable cups per year.

Be part of the solution by investing in a reusable tumbler —and actually remember to carry it with you! @ www.tervis.com

From Cuba with Love One of the hottest wedding trends in Texas this year is Colina Colada horchata liqueur. The origin can be traced back to a traditional, pre-revolution Cuban wedding. Created in honor of his bride, Don Colina crafted this decadent spirit to represent their first kiss as husband and wife.

Today, Don Colina’s son Carlos and a team of skilled artisan distillers use his father’s centuries-old family recipe, handcrafting the finest Caribbean rum with premium fresh dairy cream, cinnamon, lemon, and other unique flavors capturing the true essence of the Caribbean for all to enjoy.

courtesy photo

You’ll love this ethically-sourced pottery made by Tunisian artisans directly to your table. For an exquisite wedding gift at an affordable price, take a look at their Tapas set. These sets include one appetizer plate and three condiment squares which are perfect for dips, tapas, sauces, and bite-sized desserts. These sets are meant to be shared and shown off with their vibrant Zaghwan glazes, with no two pieces alike.

EDITOR’S

courtesy photo

At Your Service

Heidi Kagan wraps are the perfect accessory for wedding attendees to wear when the temps drop, or even for a bride and her wedding party as they come in various colors to match any theme. They also make a great travel accessory for chilly airplanes during honeymoons! Unlike regular wraps which are just a single piece of fabric you drape upon yourself, the wrap is designed with sewn-in holes so it doesn’t fall off your shoulders.

courtesy photo

courtesy photo

That’s a Wrap

@ www.colinacolada.com

- 35 -

- 36 -

Every Bride

is Treated Like a Celebrity

photo by: nhan photography

Who Made The Cake! • 713.528.4719 • WhoMadeTheCake.com

- 37 -

- 38 -

- 39 -

@khronosf

@khronosp

Khronos

hoto

Photography & Video www.khronosphoto.com info@khronosf.com 832-984-3893 - 40 -

- 41 -

Crystal Showcase EVENTS & DÉCOR

Crystal ShowCase Events & Décor has been proudly serving the Houston area for over a decade.

We are committed to professional, personalized and precise service that will set your special event high above the rest. We are here to provide one stop shopping for your event with our unique linen rentals, eccentric décor rentals, custom floral arrangements and elegant event design.

LINEN RENTALS & EVENT PLANNING

EleganceOn Any Budget www.TheCrystalShowcase.com - 42 -

832-736-5576 For Appointments

Attend America's Largest Bridal Show!

Winter ❦ Summer George R Brown • Houston

TICKETS

BridalExtravaganza.com photo: Ivan Garcia Studio • gown: Ventura’s Bridal Fashions • hair and makeup: Simple Beauty Artistry

- 43 -

- 44 -

- 45 -

- 46 -

- 48 -

- 50 -

- 51 -

- 53 -

- 54 -

- 55 -

- 56 -

- 57 -

REAL WEDDINGS

The Proposal Ana organized a dinner for her and her family since it was Mother’s Day which also fell on her dad’s birthday in 2019. They celebrated by going out to eat and after their meal the mariachis approached their table.

She requested Las Mañanitas (Mexican birthday song) and Las Llaves de Mi Alma (The Keys to My Soul).

“I always asked for that song everywhere where there were mariachis, because I always sang it to Todd,” explains Ana.

&

ANA CARDONA TODD AUSTIN JR.

June 13, 2020

Little did she know that Todd had a ring to match on that special day. When the mariachis got to the chorus, Todd moved his chair and pulled out the ring from his pocket.Next thing she knew, she looked up to see her families’ cries of excitement and joy. Todd finally asked her to be his wife and Ana agreed. Amusingly, now she looks back and thinks about how she ended up planning her engagement dinner and didn’t even know it!

- 58 -

Photography by Vey Gallery

by Carolina Hernandez

The Wedding The couple persevered through the constant changes caused by Covid-19; their wedding journey is an admirable one. They managed to have a safe wedding ceremony with their family and closest friends at St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church in Arlington. The church holds a special place as it’s been their go to since they moved to DFW and they love the community St. Mariahas built. Ana shined in a Sottero Midgley laced white dress and Todd’s fuchsia tie reflected their lively color scheme.

Bride’s Advice It’s a very stressfulll time to be a bride right now. Things may not go “according to the plan,” even if things were “normal” that would still happen.

But just remember that your wedding day is about you and your partner. Your wedding day is about your love and commitment to each other and at the end of the day that is what matters. Try to remember that when things aren’t going just right. The other stuff will fall into place and your guests will understand.

- 59 -

- 60 -

REAL WEDDINGS

Mary and Bill endured a long and broken road prior to meeting.

What they both learned along the way is that true love is built on respect, resilience, kindness and trust.

Wedding Location The Chapel at Bent Tree Bible Fellowship in Carrollton, Texas.

Bent Tree Bible has been Mary’s home church for quite some time.

Mary found a relationship with God at Bent Tree Bible. When Bill and Mary began dating, Bill joined Mary every Sunday for church.

Northwood Club Bill grew up on the greens at Northwood Club. With such a strong family legacy at the Northwood Club, there was no other thought for Bill and Mary than to have the wedding reception at the Northwood Club.

&

Carter Rose

MARY UGAZIO MIANO WILLIAM CHARLES PICKENS, JR.

by Karen Garcia

Proposal story Bill writes the most beautiful, eloquent love letters. Mary and Bill’s ritual is to read the notes to each other so that they can hear each other’s intended inflection. One night, Bill asked Mary to close her eyes. He took her hand and began reading a letter to her. As she absorbed his beautiful musings, she became lost in the imagery and prose to the point that she didn’t realize that in the last line of the letter, he was asking her to marry him. Bill asked her again, it took Mary a minute to realize that he was asking THE question! She was so taken by the beauty of his letter and the love in his eyes, she didn’t realize he had asked her to marry him.

- 62 -

June 22th, 2019

Personal Details Rather than a traditional wedding march, Bill and Mary selected songs that had true meaning to them. For the groom and wedding party entrance, their guitarists played an acoustic version of “Fields of Gold” by Sting.

Gown

Custom couture gown by Ysa Makino. The gown featured multiple layers of sculpted silk, lace and organza with thousands of micro mounted crystals.

Cake

Panini Bakery designed the three-tiered cake featuring two tiers of chocolate with strawberry filling and a center tier of white cake with dulce de leche filling.

Honeymoon

Villa Marea | St. John USVI Bill, Mary, and their four kids took a family moon to St. John USVI. Mary is a frequent visitor of St. John and considers it her “home away from home”.

Planner

Evie Morgan, Evie was the perfect Wedding Planner for Mary as they both share the same core values.

Mary’s Advice “Trust in the Lord’s timing. Use your time as a single person to discover who you are, to your core. Learn who you are so that you can be ready for the right person and you can identify that person clearly.

Then, when you finally find that person, love them intentionally, whole heartedly and with a vulnerability only he sees. If you do that, you will be able to endure all the ups and downs life throws your way”.

- 63 -

- 64 -

- 65 -

REAL WEDDINGS

Connor and I met in high school. We dated through college (Texas A&M) and married on the six year anniversary of the day we started dating.

Wedding location Rustic Grace Estate in Van Alstyne, TX was perfect because it was close to our hometown and has a beautiful chapel.

&

Lucero Cervantes

RACHEL ELISABETH BURACZYK CONNOR JAMES BURKE Gown info: Melissa Sweet, David’s Bridal Cake info: My Frosted Bliss Planner: Southern Bash Honeymoon: Marriott Resort in Cancun Mexico

Proposal story Connor proposed at George Bush Library Garden, and it was absolutely perfect! Our friends then spoiled us with an engagement party. God has blessed us greatly with wonderful friends and family, an amazing experience at Texas A&M, and of course each other.

- 66 -

October 14th, 2018

One of the best parts of our wedding was the sweet toasts given by our 16 and 17 year old siblings.

Rachel’s advice You have to have some kind of wedding planner. Kari from Southern Bash helped us out a ton. I don’t think the day would’ve gone as smoothly without her.

- 67 -

Jordan Limousines Greater Houston, Galveston area and Southeast Texas’ premier provider of vintage Rolls Royce and Bentley limousines for your wedding or special event.

We treat you like royalty!

713.680.3181 | www.jordanlimos.com

- 69 -

REAL WEDDINGS

Venue Choice The Ballroom at Bayou Place

&

DAVID REXROAT SEAN RASPBERRY

February 22, 2020

By Laurette Veres

Proposal story “We were talking about all of the beautiful weddings we have done and about how many dreams we have made come true (as co-owners of Rexberry Luxury Weddings and Events) and Sean said, ‘David, why don’t we do for ourselves what we do for other couples?’”

- 70 -

Kirk Surber Photography

Fashion “We chose a classic silhouette with a modern fit. Our favorite wedding photos are always those classic 1950s black and white photos and we wanted to pay tribute to that era.”

- 71 -

The Cake “Our wedding cake was in the design of a classic black tuxedo and we carried this look throughout the space. Sweet Nation created our one-of-a-kind custom cake.”

Classic Inspiration “We wanted a beautiful, masculine, yet elegant feel for this wedding, so everything was created custom for us.

Kirksey Gregg Productions took the reins and brought our vision to life. LBL Event Rentals created all of the custom linens and that unique design is now known as the Rexberry Wedding linen.

Because we were both 20-somethings in the 80s, we hand-selected every song for the playlist; we wanted a mix of disco (because we met at a disco party) and all 80s dance music. The photo booth featured a classic silver sequin backdrop and used only black and white film, to give all the photos a timeless look.”

- 72 -

The Grooms’ Advice “The day will fly by so fast, so think about what you will have after the day is over-your photos. Think about how things will photograph including décor, bridesmaids’ dresses, groomsmen selections, lighting etc... all of these layers, if done correctly, by someone you trust, will ensure your beautiful memories will last a lifetime.”

- 73 -

- 74 -

- 75 -

Antigua Dreamin’

Over at the beach are premium views of the cerulean sea and world-class sun bathing.

No need to rush in the morning to find a spot; there are plenty of lounge chairs.

- 76 -

Spacious suites with ocean views range from 750 square feet up to 1600 with room for the whole family

Antigua is 108 square miles of paradise nestled in the West Indies of the Caribbean. It is a small but mighty island boasting 54 miles of coastline and 365 beaches, one for every day of the year!

COURTESY PHOTOS STORY BY

Marisa Byers

T

he luxurious and tranquil Carlisle Bay Resort is on the island’s southern shore.

The all-inclusive beach and spa resort has bright, white sandy beaches and calm turquoise waters. Spacious suites with ocean views range from 750 square feet up to 1600 with room for the whole family. Each suite is decorated in soothing tones and has a double soaker tub, rainfall shower, a laydown chaise lounge on the patio and breathtaking ocean views. The well run Kid’s Club is situated on the far end of the resort so adults can enjoy the tranquil setting.

Over at the beach are premium views of the cerulean sea and world-class sun bathing. No need to rush in the morning to find a spot; there are plenty of lounge chairs. They even have flotation beds if you want to relax on the water. Outdoor activities include kayaking, paddle boarding, yoga (sunrise and sunset), snorkeling, windsurfing, sailing, tennis, and guided hikes through the rainforest. Inside is a library, movies and state-of-the-art gym.

The world-renowned Cara Organic Beauty Spa pampers with hot stone massages, facials,

- 77 -

deep tissue massages, Reiki, reflexology, and much more.

Their ultimate philosophy and focus is health, well-being, and “feeling fantastic,” which they accomplish ten fold. They also offer manicure and pedicure services to help you feel refreshed for the evening ahead.

You feel welcomed, safe, and at home in the resort. The staff sets the bar high when it comes to customer service and retention and their hard work pays off.

Many of the guests return to Carlisle Bay so often they are dubbed “regulars.” When asked what brings them back year after year they emphatically reply, THE STAFF. Not only does the staff cater to your every need, but the little details like the bowl of plumeria petals placed outside your suite to wash the sand off your feet and

how they know every guest’s name are details not to be overlooked.

The cuisine is beyond delicious.

With four distinct and unique restaurants, there is something to suit everyone’s palette. The restaurants also draw guests from neighboring resorts because of their stellar reputations. They focus on fresh, local produce and ingredients to provide maximum flavor.

- 78 -

You might even run into one of Antigua’s famous residents, like Oprah, Giorgio Armani, Eric Clapton, or Richard Branson!

There are casual bistros and fine dining options, something for everyone. The concierge knows the local favorites and can arrange transportation if you want to dine outside of the resort.

There are also many activities off the resort. Guests can enjoy zip lining through the jungle, hiking up Mount Obama, visiting the many beaches, shopping in the markets or watching a game of cricket, Antigua’s major sport.

Another popular excursion is sailing. Antigua hosts two reputable sailing competitions, where hundreds of yachts from around the world compete for top honors. You might even run into one of Antigua’s famous residents, like Oprah, Giorgio Armani, Eric Clapton, or Richard Branson!

Four days is NOT enough time to truly revel in the island’s warmth and hospitality. I look forward to returning to Antigua and establishing myself among the regulars. Hey, I have 361 more beaches to explore!

Plan your honeymoon at Carlisle Bay Resort. www.carlisle-bay.com

- 79 -

- 80 -

- 81 -

- 82 -

Recipient of The Knot’s best of weddings award

www.martinhphotography.com www.martinhphotography.com

- 83 -

Wedding photography with a personal touch & here to capture those moments forever! www.derrickcooksey.com photo@derrickcooksey.com 832-858-1174 - 84 -

Tony Chicas Photography

Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio

15 ACRES MOFFITT OAKS LUX VITA THE ESTATES AT PECAN PARK

Ivan Garcia Studio

Visit the Venues Ivan Garcia Studio

- 85 -

TRENDS

TRENDS

Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio

Tony Chicas Photography

Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio

Tony Chicas Photography Tony Chicas Photography

- 86 -

Tony Chicas Photography

Tony Chicas Photography

Tony Chicas Photography

Tony Chicas Photography

Tony Chicas Photography

Visit the Venues Bridal Venue Tour Launches in Houston

By Laurette Veres and Lorie Speich

Brides-to-be visualized their own weddings at five distinct Houstonarea wedding venues on the inaugural Visit the Venues Bus Tour.

This new program takes wedding-open houses to the next level, as each venue fully stages a complete wedding and reception. You can envision how it must feel to walk down the aisle on your wedding day. Trending color pallets are brought to life with table linens and centerpieces, while you eat, drink and make merry. Guests say it’s like crashing a wedding while getting a behind-the-scenes tour.

Visit the Venues is a luxury bus experience, designed to eliminate one of the biggest frustrations of planning a wedding – driving all over the greater Houston area looking for a dream location. Imagine riding with your family and friends as you experience fully-decorated ceremony and reception sites in your area.

Ivan Garcia Studio

The Visit the Venues team has chosen popular wedding venues and grouped them together to create area-specific tours in and around Houston. Check out www.visitthevenues.com to find upcoming tours and dates.

Ivan Garcia Studio

- 87 -

Experience the Next Step in Planning • Every venue is dressed up to make you feel like

you are crashing a wedding.

• Each stop has a theme, a reception and

more

• Experience what

it would really feel like to get married at each venue on the tour

For tickets and more info visit www.visitthevenues.com - 88 -

The Grand Hall At Deer Lake Lodge

Rustic elegance & country charm!

Call today to learn about our booking specials!

281-639-8077 Grandhalltexas.com - 89 -

TRENDS

The Grand Hall

Visit the Venue Planners

DONUT FAIRY

GRACE ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY POUR HABITS PANACHE BRIDAL & FORMAL FONDA’S CAKES SHAKE & STIRUP REXBERRY LUXURY WEDDINGS & EVENTS PHOENICIA FOODS PROOF IT HAPPENED

Blue Poppy Events PHOTOS: Grace Rose Photography

- 90 -

SIMPLE BEAUTY ARTISTRY WEDDINGS-UNLIMITED

- 91 -

TRENDS

- 92 -

The Grand Hall

- 93 -

- 94 -

Scott Kelley WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

scottkelleyphoto.com

instagram.com/scottkelleyphotography

- 95 -

- 96 -

- 97 -

TRENDS

Mirage

at Lake Conroe

Best Day Ever Events PHOTOS: Weddings Unlimited

PARTY TIME RENTALS VICKI & THEODORE ODOM DREAM VACATIONS

WEDDINGS UNLIMITED FAUXTASTIC FLORAL CREATIONS FOR HEAVEN’S CAKE BEST DAY EVER EVENTS

Visit the Venue Planners

- 98 -

PULL IT TOGETHER PARTY CO. MIRAGE CATERING SIMPLE BEAUTY ARTISTRY

- 99 -

TRENDS

- 100 -

Mirage Conroe

- 101 -

AA Luxury and Discount Travel AADISCOUNTTRAVEL@AOL.COM - 102 -

702-580-0830

· www.wanderlustbridalbotique.com ·

832-307-7478

~Let The Dress Find You~ Houston’s only Traveling Bridal Boutique.

From our store to your home, we bring the boutique to you!

- 103 -

TRENDS BILLBOARD BRIDE

BO Ivan Garcia Studio

15 Acres A FINER EVENT

BLUSH HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY

Ivan Garcia Studio

CAKES BY GINA

CHAIR COVERS N MORE CYPRESS PHOTO CAMPER IVAN GARCIA STUDIO MEN'S WEARHOUSE OH SO ELEGANT EVENTS Tony Chicas Photography

The Bridal Extravaganza’s Billboard Bride photo shoot highlights new trends in entertainment - 104 -

Tony Chicas Photography

Tony Chicas Photography

PB&DJ EVENTS THE BETTER HALF GOURMET TONY CHICAS PHOTOGRAPHY VENTURA'S BRIDAL FASHIONS WEDDING CAKES BY TAMMY ALLEN YELBA'S VARIETY BAND AND LATIN FIRE

OHO Chic Tony Chicas Photography

Ivan Garcia Studio

Tony Chicas Photography

Tony Chicas Photography

by Laurette Veres photos: Ivan Garcia Studio Tony Chicas Photography Ivan Garcia Studio

- 105 -

TRENDS

Ivan Garcia Studio

Moffitt Oaks

Ivan Garcia Studio

BAVARIAN CAKERY Ivan Garcia Studio

BLUSH HAIR & MAKEUP ARTISTRY WCAFÉ NATALIE CYPRESS PHOTO CAMPER FOR HEAVEN'S CAKE HOLYOAK FLORAL DESIGNS IVAN GARCIA STUDIO JPL ENTERTAIMENT MEN'S WEARHOUSE

- 106 - Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio

VENTURA'S BRIDAL FASHIONS

L

BILLBOARD BRIDE

exi Abrego is Houston’s new Billboard Bride. Selected from thousands of brides who attended the January Bridal Extravaganza Show at the George R. Brown Convention Center, Lexi demonstrated her enthusiastic passion for wedding planning along with her grace and beauty. You can meet her at the Bridal Extravaganza July 18-19, 2020 and see her on billboards throughout the greater Houston area.

The Billboard Bride photo shoot was a whirlwind of excitement for Lexi. A magical trip to Ventura’s Bridal Fashions was the first step in the process. The vast array of gowns available makes Ventura’s the perfect place to search for the Billboard Bride’s dream gown.

“Each gown was prettier than the one before,” says Lexi. With dress in hand, the photo crew headed to Blackberry Park in the woods Ivan Garcia Studio of North Houston to utilize one of the latest crazes in entertainment.

Tipis (also known as teepees) create festival-like settings for weddings and events and add interesting depth and detail to photos.

Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio Ivan Garcia Studio

- 107 -

BILLBOARD BRIDE TRENDS Lexi and Emilio’s relationship began in 2014 and has grown deeper with time. Over the years, they found their favorite restaurant: Gaido’s Seafood, located on the Seawall in Galveston. “It’s one of the most romantic dinner spots and great for date night,” says Lexi.

For years, this has been a “go to” spot for the happy couple. On a particularly beautiful evening in early November, they were sitting at a special corner table at Gaido’s when “Emilio just leaped out of his chair and got on his knee and asked me to marry him,” says Lexi excitedly. The ring box even had a light in it. Was it the glow of the ring box, or Lexi’s glow that other diners noticed when they broke into applause and sent champagne to congratulate the couple? After dinner, the couple headed to the beach for pictures. Lexi found out later, Emilio’s original plan had been to ask for her hand in marriage during family Thanksgiving, but Emilio just couldn’t wait. “The whole family was supposed to do this as a Ivan Garciateam Studio and then he ended up doing it intimately at Gaido’s, which was just as special,” she says.

Ivan Garcia Studio

Lux Vita BLUSH HAIR & MAKEUP ARTISTRY CAKES BY GINA CHAIR COVERS N MORE FLORAL EVENTS HOMETOWN CHEF CATERING CO. IVAN GARCIA STUDIO LG EVENT ENTERTAINMENT & PRODUCTION LLC MEN'S WEARHOUSE PICTURE ME HOUSTON PHOTO BOOTH THIRD FLOOR STRINGS TONY CHICAS PHOTOGRAPHY

Ivan Garcia Studio

- 108 -

Ivan Garcia Studio

VENTURA'S BRIDAL FASHIONS

Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio Ivan Garcia Studio

Ivan Garcia Studio

- 109 -

Tony Chicas Photography

BILLBOARD BRIDE TRENDS Lexi has about a year to enjoy being engaged and plan her big day. Her wedding will be at Sacred Heart Church in Galveston and the reception will be at the San Luis Resort.

An array of talented vendors from the Bridal Extravaganza Show put their creative genius together for this new and unique photo shoot.

The design team at Holyoak Floral Designs, headed by Stacie Holyoak, added the perfect floral touches.

“The boho chic look is definitely trending,” says Holyoak. “I’m trying to capture what mother nature has and bring the beauty to life in a different, meaningful way. ”A mixture of dry and fresh flowers creates an organic and natural vibe versus the traditional. “This look makes a statement for the brides who want to show their organic side,” she says.

On the billboard, Lexi holds a light pink bouquet with purple accents created by the talented designers at H-E-B Blooms.

The Estates

Hair and makeup can create various looks. In this case, Mayra Malik of Simple Beauty Artistry knew braids would be a great addition. “Lexi has hair to work with,” says Mayra.

Tony Chicasgreat Photography

at Pecan Park

The setting at Blackberry Park is unique. “We are so excited to offer this new type of entertainment option to the Houston area,” says Lexi Snyder. Her team spent six months gathering items to enhance the aesthetic of the space. From silverware, to place settings and antique glassware; the venue staff

Tony Chicas Photography

Tony Chicas Photography

has lots of options. For this shoot, a macramé wall hanging was added as an additional focal point; baskets CHAIR COVERS N MORE along with colorful rugs were incorporated throughout. Although DJS ENTERTAINMENT the entire venue is actually outside, a ceremony site was set up right FOR CAKE outside the HEAVEN'S tipi. Just before dusk, the light was simply perfect for Ivan FRANNY'S BARTENDING Garcia of Ivan Garcia Studios. “Lexi & EVENT SERVICES is a natural; each pose better than the last,” he says. With the tipi wall as a backdrop, the floral arch and J DESIGNS the individual vases, each holding a single flower, are highlighted MEN'S WEARHOUSE perfectly. Benches take the place of pews leading to the altar.

PHOENICIA FOODS

The team at the Bridal Extravaganza SUNNY HAIR AND is thrilled to introduce Lexi Abrego MAKEUP as the new BillboardARTISTRY Bride. Look for her smiling face on billboards all over town. You can also say hello to her at TONY CHICAS the Billboard Bride booth at the Bridal PHOTOGRAPHY Extravaganza on July 18-19, 2020.

- 110 -

Tony Chicas Photography

VENTURA'S BRIDAL FASHIONS

Tony Chicas Photography

Get this

look:

Gown: Ventura ’s Bridal Fashions Bouquet : H-E-B B looms Hair & M akeup: Simple B eauty Ar tistry Venue: Blackber ry Park

Tony Chicas Photography

Tony Chicas Photography

Tony Chicas Photography Tony Chicas Photography

- 111 -

- 112 -

- 113 -

- 114 -

- 115 -

- 117 -

Feeling Overwhelmed?

“We

handle the details, you make the memories.

EVENT PLANNING & COORDINATION FULL & PARTIAL PLANNING CUSTOM PACKAGES 281.382.3510 www.TheNextSteppEvents.com TheNextSteppEvents@gmail.com

- 118 -

”

Always Us Studios •

Authentic and dynamic emotion photographs that will preserve your wedding memories for a lifetime.

832-646-5929 info@alwaysus-studios.com www.alwaysus-studios.com - 119 -

Weddings by Andrea Wedding Planning ~ Wedding Coordination ~ Decoration and Linen Rentals www.wedbyandrea.com @wedbyandrea hello@wedbyandrea.com 832-797-6353 - 120 -

- 121 -

BILLBOARD BRIDE

BO

The Bridal Extravaganza’s Billboard Bride photo shoot highlights new trends in entertainment - 122 -

OHO Chic

by Laurette Veres photos: Ivan Garcia Studio - 123 -

- 124 -

L

BILLBOARD BRIDE

exi Abrego is Houston’s new Billboard Bride. Selected from thousands of brides who attended the January Bridal Extravaganza Show at the George R. Brown Convention Center, Lexi demonstrated her enthusiastic passion for wedding planning along with her grace and beauty. You can meet her at the Bridal Extravaganza July 18-19, 2020 and see her on billboards throughout the greater Houston area.

The Billboard Bride photo shoot was a whirlwind of excitement for Lexi. A magical trip to Ventura’s Bridal Fashions was the first step in the process. The vast array of gowns available makes Ventura’s the perfect place to search for the Billboard Bride’s dream gown.

“Each gown was prettier than the one before,” says Lexi. With dress in hand, the photo crew headed to Blackberry Park in the woods of North Houston to utilize one of the latest crazes in entertainment.

Tipis (also known as teepees) create festival-like settings for weddings and events and add interesting depth and detail to photos.

- 125 -

BILLBOARD BRIDE Lexi and Emilio’s relationship began in 2014 and has grown deeper with time. Over the years, they found their favorite restaurant: Gaido’s Seafood, located on the Seawall in Galveston. “It’s one of the most romantic dinner spots and great for date night,” says Lexi.

For years, this has been a “go to” spot for the happy couple. On a particularly beautiful evening in early November, they were sitting at a special corner table at Gaido’s when “Emilio just leaped out of his chair and got on his knee and asked me to marry him,” says Lexi excitedly. The ring box even had a light in it. Was it the glow of the ring box, or Lexi’s glow that other diners noticed when they broke into applause and sent champagne to congratulate the couple? After dinner, the couple headed to the beach for pictures. Lexi found out later, Emilio’s original plan had been to ask for her hand in marriage during family Thanksgiving, but Emilio just couldn’t wait. “The whole family was supposed to do this as a team and then he ended up doing it intimately at Gaido’s, which was just as special,” she says.

- 126 -

- 127 -

BILLBOARD BRIDE Lexi has about a year to enjoy being engaged and plan her big day. Her wedding will be at Sacred Heart Church in Galveston and the reception will be at the San Luis Resort.

An array of talented vendors from the Bridal Extravaganza Show put their creative genius together for this new and unique photo shoot.

The design team at Holyoak Floral Designs, headed by Stacie Holyoak, added the perfect floral touches.

“The boho chic look is definitely trending,” says Holyoak. “I’m trying to capture what mother nature has and bring the beauty to life in a different, meaningful way. ”A mixture of dry and fresh flowers creates an organic and natural vibe versus the traditional. “This look makes a statement for the brides who want to show their organic side,” she says.

On the billboard, Lexi holds a light pink bouquet with purple accents created by the talented designers at H-E-B Blooms.

Hair and makeup can create various looks. In this case, Mayra Malik of Simple Beauty Artistry knew braids would be a great addition. “Lexi has great hair to work with,” says Mayra.

The setting at Blackberry Park is unique. “We are so excited to offer this new type of entertainment option to the Houston area,” says Lexi Snyder. Her team spent six months gathering items to enhance the aesthetic of the space. From silverware, to place settings and antique glassware; the venue staff

has lots of options. For this shoot, a macramé wall hanging was added as an additional focal point; baskets along with colorful rugs were incorporated throughout. Although the entire venue is actually outside, a ceremony site was set up right outside the tipi. Just before dusk, the light was simply perfect for Ivan Garcia of Ivan Garcia Studios. “Lexi is a natural; each pose better than the last,” he says. With the tipi wall as a backdrop, the floral arch and the individual vases, each holding a single flower, are highlighted perfectly. Benches take the place of pews leading to the altar.

The team at the Bridal Extravaganza is thrilled to introduce Lexi Abrego as the new Billboard Bride. Look for her smiling face on billboards all over town. You can also say hello to her at the Billboard Bride booth at the Bridal Extravaganza on July 18-19, 2020.

- 128 -

Get this

look:

G Ventura’s own: Bridal Fa shions Bouquet : H-E-B B looms Hair & M akeup: Simple B eauty Ar tistry Venue: Blackber ry Park

- 129 -

- 131 -

- 132 -

We’re offering 20% off all wedding packages through the end of the month! Check out our Photo + Video packages. We would love to bring your wedding story to life!

Contact RedRockVisuals@gmail.com for more information. www.redrockvisuals.com - 133 -

Photo by Arturo Aguilar

Honeymoons, Destination Weddings, & Unique Trips Worldwide Follow Us Professional Travel Specialist Heather@uniqueromancetravel.com uniqueromancetravel.com

- 134 -

heather_bannon heatherurt

Fauxtastic Floral Creations FLORIST, BACKDROPS, AND DECOR FOR EVERY SEASON!

713-416-8956 Fauxtasticfloralcreations.com Fauxtasticfloralcreations@gmail.com - 135 -

- 136 -

AFW.com 2-Piece Sectional $748 (P-585-2PC) Accent Chair $268 • Cocktail Ottoman $178

2 Piece Sectional $748 ^Available in Store Only | While Supplies Last





“Loving it ! Amazing couch with an awesome price!”

- JOSEPH V.

“It fits perfectly!! It looks amazing in my living room!”

- XANIA J.



“Great selection.

Super comfortable. The service was overall amazing.

Highly recommend.”

- ANAISE S. - 137 -

- 138 -

Gringos

- 139 -

TRAVEL

- 140 -

A look on the

Bright Side

By Laurette Veres

This shoot was created by Kari Loth of Southern Bash Wedding and Events and Dindra McFadden of Millie May Blooms. In the midst of a pandemic and quarantine, the two ladies wanted to showcase colors and textures reminding us of happiness, springtime and create a look to the future. There is always a bright side. The bright colored flowers mixed perfectly with the brilliant macaroons and striking drinks. The Bella Cavalli Events Venue added the perfect backdrop to this whimsical, fun, colorful, and unique shoot with its gorgeous backdrops and amazing animals. Where else can you party with a beer burro and walk alongside the horses from the Hunger Games movies, while strolling near a lake at sunset? My favorite part of the shoot was the nighttime set up, showcasing Silver Bear Creative’s untouchable lighting effects.

- 141 -

Vendors: Planner: Southern Bash Florist: Millie May Blooms Gowns: Say Yes To Your Dress Bridal Venue: Bella Cavalli Events Desserts: Savor Patisserie of McKinney - 142 -

Hair: Pretty Up Models: Chrissa Loth, Courtney Loth, MeKenna McFadden, Alise McFadden, Brayden McFadden, Cam Rivas Signage and Caligraphy: Lonestar Letter

Bar: DFW Bartending Video: Silver Bear Creative Makeup: Rachel Jackson Table Decor: Royal EventRentals DFW Photo: Silver Bear Creative - 143 -

Attend America's Largest Bridal Show!

Winter ❦ Summer George R Brown • Houston

TICKETS

BridalExtravaganza.com - 144 -

photo: Ivan Garcia Studio • gown: Ventura’s Bridal Fashions • hair and makeup: Simple Beauty Artistry

Texas Weddings > 2021