Texas weddings | summer 2016

From the Producers oF AmericA’s LArgest BridAL extrAvAgAnzA

Entertaining

The dish on italian comfort food

summer 2016

Travel Issue

plan your honeymoon here Destination weDDing

Trending now

Creative Wedding Registry

no problem

3 tips

for flawless bridal make-up

Learn from

Real Texas Brides

Bridal Extravaganza display until 10/26/16

suMMER 2016

January 7-8

Show

Book it!

The B bo d Bride see story on page 6

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Contents Summer/Fall 2016

FEaturEs 6

218 Erika

& Michael

Billboard Bride

EvEnts

244

Major Prizes at Bridal Extravaganza Show

252

Houston Wedding Seminars

rEal WEddings

Houston Bridal Extravaganza Show

278

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136 142 146 154 158 162

Callie &Koby Casey & Gregory Brittan & Jordan Courtney &Kolby Meera & David Shauna & Jerry

174 180 186 194 212

Briana & Scott Mica & Christopher Andrea & Brice Amanda & Michael Catrina & Cory

Ponte Vedra

travEl

264 Casa Velas

272 Ponte Vedra

268 Pelican Reef

254 Las Terrazas

270 Glassy Chapel

Cedar 276 Big Lodge

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Registry

EntErtaining

76

226

New Year’s Day

78

236

Italian Comfort Food

BRiDal showeR:

ReheaRsal DinneR:

Beauty Bridal Extravaganza Show TV

in EvEry issuE

55 Editors’ 67 Picks Vendor 283 Resource Guide Editor’s Letter

80 West Elm

84

Celebrity Inspiration

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Request your visit by phone or online. Open 7 days a week!

VenturasBridalFashions.com • 713.880.2364

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102 North Loop @ Yale Street • Houston, Texas 77008 • VenturasBridalFashions.com • 713.880.2364

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He

follow your

Groom-to-be sends his bride-to-be on Texas scavenger hunt -6-

eart

by Laurette M. Veres

photography by Ana&Ivan Photography

L

Lauren and Oscar celebrated four years of dating Christmas Day with a blended family Christmas dinner. “It was an amazing anniversary gift to have both of our large families together under one roof,� recalls Lauren. Little did she know, the amazing anniversary events were just beginning.

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The next day she discovered red balloon #1 at her front door. There was a clue attached which led her to her favorite park, where she found balloon #2 with a $20 bill and directions to Starbucks. Inside Starbucks was one of her best friends (flown in from Los Angeles, California!) pouring espresso. “These shots represent the darkness we’ve come from.

I love the person you’ve become,” said the friend as she handed Lauren balloon #3. This balloon sent her home where balloon #4

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waited on her bedroom door.

She found a pre-packed bag (thanks Sis!) and a note about spontaneous adventure. Five minutes later Oscar was at the door; balloon #5 was in the back of his truck. They were headed somewhere that started with an S and ended with an O according to the note, to the Emily Morgan hotel.

She Googled the hotel name and found they were heading to San Antonio! In the hotel room she found balloon #6, which told her to get dolled up in a hurry; dinner reservations

were at 5:00pm. Dinner included champagne, dessert and clue #7.

At the apex of a romantic little rock bridge on the River Walk, burning candles were arranged in a heart. “He got down on one knee and made me the happiest girl in the whole world!!” she recalls.

When she looked up, family and friends were cheering and taking pictures. “My breath was absolutely taken away! So many people that I love surprised me to be there for this moment. I have never shed so many tears of joy in my life.”

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Her engagement felt like a hazy dream until she attended the Bridal Extravaganza in Houston. “The show helped a lot,” she says.

“I didn’t know where to start so I started thinking I definitely need a venue because you really can’t do anything without a date. Once you get your date everything else starts to fall in line.” Internet research isn’t enough. “Pictures on Pinterest are not exactly what (a dress, cake, flowers) will look like in person,” she says.

: Get this look Fashions Ventura’s Bridal r Al’s Formal Wea t A Splendid Even Artistry Simple Beauty raphy ana&ivan photog

by Jessie Edible Designs My Urban Invites

At the show she registered for the Be the Billboard Bride competition, became a finalist and won! You see her on billboards all over southeast Texas. Wedding planner Lorie Speich of A Splendid Event was in charge of the photo shoot. Speich makes brides’ dreams come true. Lauren dreamt of a fairytale photo shoot, so Speich booked one of Houston’s hottest new venues- Sans Souci Ballroom and pulled together a team of Houston’s leading wedding vendors to create the dream.

Simple Beauty Artistry created four unique hair and make up looks for the shoot. Their team highly recommends hair and make up trial runs and focusing on after pictures, where you can truly see a makeup artist’s work.

Ana&Ivan photography was on hand to capture every shot.

They created some unique options to include the groom and incorporated a piano for an extra element of style.“Lauren was a natural,” says Ana. “Trying on gowns (at Ventura’s Bridal Fashions) made the

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engagement feel real,” says Lauren. “As soon as I put them on I just felt like a princess.”

Her advice is to try on everything. “Some people say when you know, you know, but I think when you try on a dress, your body will tell you. I didn’t think I would like a fluffy dress but it really looks nice and I like how it feels.”

To other brides, she says don’t get too stressed out, give yourself enough time, and hire a wedding planner if you can afford it. It’s also important to decide what’s really important.

For Lauren, she believes the dress, makeup, and pictures are what she will want to remember.

For her real wedding she has selected Pecan Springs wedding venue. She likes the elegant, country chic look.

Lauren encourages brides to take advantage of every opportunity Houston has to offer. As for winning Be the Billboard Bride, she says, “You never know. Certain things are meant to be. Winning this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity– it happened to me!”

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Nadine Moon has developed a reputation throughout Texas for her beautiful and creative custom designed cakes. Called a “Confectionary Artist ” by her clients, she uses her artistic abilities to create beautiful cakes which will have your guests raving, “Who Made the Cake!”

A seven-tier cake covered with 2,500 handmade sugar roses and white-chocolate fondant..

As seen in People Weddings magazine.

ature confections fe ic st ti ar ed n e two. esig bination of th Our custom d m co a r o t, fondan r being rich, buttercream, are known fo s n ig es d ors to te Our elabora variety of flav a h it w s, u io ic moist and del . m o fr choose

Weddings Birthdays • Showers • Special Events

Specialties include realistic sugar flowers, stacked presents with sugar bows, detailed hand-painted designs, as well as unique carved 3-dimensional cakes. Highlights of Nadine’s career include meeting Martha Stewart and appearing on the Martha show, designing a special Texas themed cake for Matthew McConnaughey, as well as creating a birthday cake for Sir Elton John.

1811 South Shepherd • Houston, Tx. 77019, 713-528-4719, www.whomadethecake.com

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Every Bride

is Treated Like a Celebrity

photo by: nhan photography

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Who Made The Cake! • 713.528.4719 • WhoMadeTheCake.com

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A

Serene

weddiNg deSTiNATioN, cloSe To hoMe

Set amidst 25 acres of lush grounds, quaint arbors and picket fences, moss draped live oaks and roses, Ashelynn Manor provides a relaxed country setting with all the modern amenities and several options for your wedding: large or intimate. Exchange your vows in front of 275 guests in the new “Vintage� chapel with mahogany pews and light filled windows or in the romantic garden gazebo with horses in the distant pastures. The stately Manor luxuriously appointed with marble floors, grandiose columns, a picture perfect circular staircase topped with a sparkling chandelier and fabulous views is ideal for intimate gatherings. Host your reception in the carriage house, decorated in an elegant true country style. Our on-site planners will customize your event to perfection.

Ashelynn Manor

281.252.3355 | www.ashelynnmanor.com 25276 Nichols Sawmill | Magnolia, Texas 77355 - 23 -

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A unique venue with over a century of history...

houston PaPParazzi

houston PaPParazzi

houston PaPParazzi

...Linking the Past to the Present, and the Present to your Future.

Open House sunday, July 31, 2016

2:00 - 5:00 pm rsVP to 281-557-5551 or info@ButlersCourtyard.com 281.557.5551 - 32 -

www.butlerscourtyard.com

league city, tX

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TEXAS SIZE

PARTY STORE SHOWER, BRIDAL & PARTY SUPPLIES YOUR SAVINGS HEADQUARTERS FOR A

Memorable Wedding!

Aisle Runners Balloons Banquet Rolls Baskets Bouquet Holders Bridal Gifts Bridal Bouquet Bubbles & Bells Cake Toppers Candles-Unity Candles Candle Holders-Unity Crown & Lazo’s Cups, Plates, Tumblers Glass, Paper & Plastic Plain, Decorated & Colors Garlands Garters Gifts Head Pieces Kneeling Pillows Paper Napkins Assorted Sizes, Colors Plain & Decorated

Parasols & Fans Picture Frames Plastic CutleryAssorted Colors Plume PensAssorted Colors Quinceanera Ribbon-All Sizes & Colors Ring Pillows Silk Flowers Serving Sets Toasting Glasses Table Covers Plastic, Paper & Assorted Colors Veils Wedding Bells-Assorted Sizes & Colors Wedding Books Favor Maker Submersible Lights

CALL: 713-869-8321 OR “281-45-PARTY” 2830 Hicks Street Off Studemont, 2 blocks south of I-10

HOUSTON, TX 77007

Open 7 days a week!!

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House Plantation Cinderella Saturday 2016-2017

Our Cinderella Package Includes Your Ceremony and Reception for 5 hours Our Beautiful Home from 1890 on 18 Beautifully Landscaped Acres Gazebo and Spacious Glassed in Grand Room and Porch Magnificent Lake View “Grandma and Grandpa House Museum” Personal Wedding Coordinator Charming Bride’s Dressing Room, Tastefully Appointed Groom’s Quarters Gift Area Including Cage for Envelopes Tables, Chairs, Linens & Napkins China, Flatware & Goblets Staff, Bartenders, Beverage Napkins, Cups and Ice (Set up, Tear down, Clean-up) Security Officers DJ-Emcee Minister - ($225) Wedding Cake -($435) Grooms Cake - ($212) Chocolate Fountain ($150) Coffee, Tea & Lemonade Margarita Machine - ($150) Fireworks - ($150) Meal @ $20 Per Person ($2057) $16,980

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Total Based on 100 Guests for ALL of the above Over 100 Guests @ $18 pp + Cakes + Meal + Tax (on meal) Our Vendors are the Best of the Best You may choose to bring in your own Vendors Dramatically Change The Price Of Your Package By Choosing A Less Expensive Meal We Have Meals Starting At $7.00 Per Person To The Moon We at House Plantation do not charge Gratuity, Service Fee, Set Up Fee, Slicing Fee or Chilling and Corking Fee “GROOM NOT INCLUDED” 281-849-8471 or 281-758-0706 PHONE – 832-526-0503 TEXT $1,000 Deposit, Final Balance Due 2 weeks Prior to Event, Additional Hours $825 Per Hour Friday Pricing Available Upon Request (Max Capacity 325) HOUSE PLANTATION, 15743 HOUSE RD, HOCKLEY, TEXAS 77447 www.houseplantation.com houseplantation@gmail.com Rev 1/2016 Thank you, Connie, FGM !!!!!WE ONLY DO ONE EVENT A DAY!!!!!

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e di to r s l e t t e r

Wedding

Style

The best way to style your wedding is to study weddings. Read magazines, search the Internet and attend live events. Look for ideas to communicate your love story– then select vendors with the same vision.

MAKEUP BY SIMPLE BEAUTY ARTISTRY

Here’s what I hope you say the day after your wedding:

PHOTO BY ANA&IVAN PHOTOGRAPHY

I loved my dress People had fun The music was perfect No one left hungry People I love surrounded me The flower girl made everyone laugh My first dance brought tears It was perfect and all the planning was worthwhile. I’d do it again tomorrow.

We are here to help make your wedding dreams come true.

Sincerely, Laurette M. Veres

P.S. Remember it’s YOUR wedding. (not mine, not your mom’s) ZA LARGEST BRIDAL EXTRAVAGAN FROM THE PRODUCERS OF AMERICA’S

Entertaining

THE DISH ON ITALIAN COMFORT FOOD

The nexT Bridal exTravaganza Show iS January 7-8 2017

SUMMER 2016

Travel Issue

PLAN YOUR HONEYMOON HERE DESTINATION WEDDING

no problem

3 tips

Learn from

FOR FLAWLESS BRIDAL MAKE-UP

Real Texas Brides

Bridal GANZA EXTRAVASh ow TRENDING NOW

Creative Wedding Registry

JANUARY 7-8

Book it!

ON THE COVER H Texas Cover compliments The Princess Bridal Photo: Todd White Photography

Texas Weddings Cover Greg & Casey by Scott Kelley Billboard Bride Lauren Cantu Gown Ventura’s Bridal Fashions Makeup/Hair Simple Beauty Artistry Photography ana&ivan photography Florist/Coordination A Splendid Event

EDITOR IN CHIEF Laurette M. Veres MANAGING EDITOR Thutrang Mai GRAPHIC DESIGN Goran Atanasovski PRODUCTION MANAGER Jeanine Hickman

EDITORIAL Ashely Petty Carolina Hernandez FatemaShariff Jade Lewis Thutrang Mai Maddie Addicks Rocio Grana Vicki Dill Kim Padgett Tom Flynn

PHOTOGRAPHY Khajn Ngyen Flora Padilla Corlina’s Photography Jo West Scott Kelley Dana Fernandez Christina Carrol Photography Cristina Wisner Pedro Damian Bend the Light Jaylee Debenedictis

®COPYRIGHT 2016 • Bridal Extravaganza Show, PO Box 667399, Houston, TX 77266 281-340-7777 H Texas Magazine – Texas Weddings Magazine

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EDITORS’ PICS

Give me that bling Spartina 449 has the perfect “something blue” for the bride on the big day and dazzling accessories will make the bridesmaids shine.

@ www.Spartina449.com

Go Green

Personalized Gifts Looking for personalized gifts for your bridal party?

The Urban Smith’s collection of fashionable nameplate necklaces allow you to customize and tailor each necklace with your own engraved phrase to match perfectly with each bridesmaid, maid of honor or even mom.

All products are handmade in San Francisco and come packaged in an adorable peep-through Kraft envelope.

Each bar is 14K gold filled, hand cut and each letter hand stamped allowing each piece to be unique. Retails for $60.00 and up.

@ www.theurbansmith.com

Laurette’s PICS

Susty Party has a growing collection of stylish disposable tableware perfect for outdoor wedding season when people don’t want to rent or use drab, wasteful throwaways. These products will get love birds excited about all the events surrounding their wedding, from bridal showers to the special day itself!

@ www.sustyparty.com

Put a Stamp on It Three Designing Women has over 1,000 custom ink designs fit for any personality.

Available in a variety of bright colors and contemporary styles, these fun and exquisitely detailed stamps are ideal for personalizing correspondence, recipes, giftwrapping, home decor, and anything else you’d like to leave your mark on.

@ www.threedesigningwomen.com

Under it all With a huge selection of bridal lingerie and a diverse collection of bathing suits, Anabel Arto has everything for your honeymoon.

@ www.anabelartousa.com

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Postly is a new platform providing an easy solution for travel lovers to make the most of their vacation photos. No more wasting time on trips buying the right postcard for each person in your address book or finding a post office, with postage costing a fortune in some countries! Now you can take a picture, upload it right to Postly on your phone and hit send in seconds. They offer worldwide delivery for just $1.99 and it is available to iOS and Android.

Milestone Wedding Cards

Commemorate Commemorate To the bride and groom to be: here is the perfect way to capture and remember all the special moments leading up to your big day. Setting the date, sending the invites, choosing the cake, the flowers and the dress, asking your bridesmaids and maid of honor, saying I do! and so much more.Capture all those special moments with the original Wedding Cards.

@ www.milestonecards.com

Stylish Water for Wedding Guests Brides searching for that “extra touch” for their wedding guests this year don’t need to look any further than one of the most talked about accessories that has graced the presence of celebrities from Liam Hemsworth to Kendall Jenner. We’re talking about Boxed Water, the chicest necessity that will not only hydrate guests after a long night of dancing the night away but also match the décor of any wedding.

Boxed Water is an eco-friendly alternative to packaged water that is not only 100% BPA free, but also better for the environment no matter the wedding destination.

@ www.boxedwaterisbetter.com

Something blue from Thomas Sabo Looking for your something blue – you’ll find something for the bride, the groom, and the entire wedding party from Thomas Sabo.

Established in 1984, this global leader in lifestyle products, including jewelry for men and women, is now available for the first time in the United States.Thomas Sabo offers Something Blue, Pearls, Diamonds and more. The collection is amazingly priced from $79. to $798.

@ www.thomassabo.com

SAvE $10 WITH COUPON CODE LOvE AND EArN FrEE SHIPPINg.

AwesomeBox AwesomeBox creates a personal and thoughtful gift. Fill the gift by “crowdsourcing” the love and respect that surrounds the recipient with memories from others.

AwesomeBox is “social-by-design” and a fun way to see all the photos and messages in a virtual surprise party! You and the crowd can create a totally unique box set of custom cards that become a time capsule of favorite cherished memories that can be shared, talked about, laughed and cried over for years. AwesomeBox starts at $49 for a 25-card box.

@ www.awesomebox.com

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Editors’

Postly for Travel Lovers

Pics

EDITORS’ PICS

Bonne O

Mix, Mix Baby Most newlyweds are asking for glassware or china on their big day, so make a statement with this innovative gift for couples who are foodies, fitness buffs, mixologists or just love home entertaining.

Bonne O is the first carbonating system without a CO2 tank that sparkles literally everything from water and soda to wine spritzers.

Match Made in Heaven Skeem Design’s match bottles make clever wedding gifts, or even invitations for the intrepid bride. In addition to black and white, match bottles come in cheerful shades of green, orange and blue—ideal for spring or summer weddings in the garden, on the farm, or at the beach.

@ www.bonneo.com

@ www.etsy.com/shop/taggedwithloveshop

Talaria Flats Women love their high heels, but by the end of the night tired feet lead to bare feet, especially for brides, and wedding guests, who want to dance the night away. Talaria Flats founder Ingrid Sarver decided to create a new, portable alternative that combines timeless style with better durability for ideal comfort, over lower quality competitive products. The company is quickly winning the hearts of fashionable women, brides and bridesmaids.

And, of course, Ingrid wore them at her own wedding, recently.

The idea behind Talaria Flats came to Farmington Hills, Michigan native Sarver while completing her MBA at NYU. She knew all too well the effect of wearing heels all night and decided to create a more durable option for fashionable women. Talaria Flats offers classic and premium foldable ballet flats made of split leather and premium genuine rubber soles, with accompanying bag, that are ideal for women on the go, brides and bridesmaids, and event guests who want to keep dancing the night away.

@ www.TalariaFlats.com

Keep Guests Entertained Anyone looking to add an element of fun and entertainment to their wedding is frequently turning to one of the hottest trends of 2016: Outdoor Wedding Games.

Couples are consistently seeking ideas for keeping everyone entertained and happy during all parts of a wedding. Consider a custom Cornhole Board .

@ www.tosso.com

Toast, Toast!

With Infused Vodka’s gluten-free and lower calorie ingredients, there’s no need for anyone in the bridal party to worry about counting calories. Each bottle is distilled five times and naturally infused with flavors from handpicked fruits, spices, and herbal ingredients. For those who want to make a toast with a glass of wine, Xo, G is a great on-the-go option for this big night.

@ www.xogwine.com

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Flower it up

Editors’

Credit:Jaylene Debenedictis

There are so many centerpieces you can pick, but this really caught my eye. It’s tall enough so people can still talk across the table without having difficulty seeing each other and it looks amazing. The pearls hanging from the flowers give it an elegant look.

Pics

Credit: Jaylene Debenedictis

His & Hers

A cute little touch for the bride and groom to have is a “hers” and “his” on their chairs.

I recommend featuring these in your theme color, as shown here in gold.

Two in one Picture

Photo credit Nicholas Nguyen

Jade’s Pics

Arch to Happiness This arch is filled with beautiful flowers and looks magnificent. This is a great idea for your wedding if you are looking for something simple but effective.

Credit: Christina Carroll

Lights, Seats, Wedding This lighting works well from day to evening. Guests will dance the night away under these charming, twinkly lights.

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Credit:John Christopher

Unique Centerpiece Centerpieces can vary in so many ways; they can be extravagant or simple. This piece has a lantern with beautiful flowers around it and a little paper note with a pen for people to leave a message for the bride and groom. What a sweet touch.

Credit: Bend The Light

Credit:John Christopher

This picture shows both the invitations and centerpieces.

You can tell the couple carried their theme color from the invitation to the décor. I love the floating candles with flowers as a centerpiece as it creates an elegant effect.

Editors’ Pics

Credit: Rosalee’s Custom Photography

Altar Affair

Outside the Box

Flower arches are an eye-catching way to decorate your altar. Adding a pop of color to the arch is a great idea.

Non-traditional wedding photos are so amazing and unique. Remember to always ask your photographer if they have any ideas for fun and creative photos you can take with your partner or wedding party.

Center of Attention

Credit: Bend the Light Photography

Rocio’s Pics

Grand Exit

Credit: Bend the Light Photography

Photo credit Nicholas Nguyen

Centerpieces are important for any wedding. These centerpieces create a rustic feel using twigs to cover the base.

Credit: Bend the Light Photography

I love sparklers for the exit of a wedding. They are unique and entertaining for everyone. Photographers like them too!

Flower Power A bride’s bouquet is a statement about her personality. Many brides add personal touches to their bouquets making them more sentimental and meaningful.

Sweet Tooth

Credit: Blanca Duran

Dessert bars are always a good idea at weddings.

It’s a great way to organize all the sweets in one place. You can include your cake or have it next to your dessert bar.

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Trends

A Glass for Every Bride Slice and Dice

Sleep Tight

Excalibur spiral veggie slicer $34.95

Pacifica organic cotton gel pillow $50

Create healthy and appetizing salads such as potato curls, cucumber spirals, vegetable spaghetti and so much more with the Excalibur Spiral Veggie Slicer. Easy to use, the Excalibur 3-in-1 Food Slicer comes with a base and three blades that slice product evenly and consistently, cutting prep time in half.

Often times we do not know what to give the couple who has everything. Why not try giving them the gift of comfort and a good night’s rest.

@ www.brentwoodhome.com

@ www.ExcaliburDehydrator.com

Vinum cuvee prestige flute $54.99 • Veritas coupe $62 • “O” glass $24.99 • Veritas champagne wine glass $64.99 (all sets of two) The Romantic Princess Bride will fall in love with the timeless, traditional silhouette of Riedel’s Vinum Cuvee Prestige Flute while the Vintage, Glamour Bride will be dazzled by the old Hollywood charm of Riedel’s Veritas Coupe, with its Gatsby era sophistication. The free-spirited Minimalist, Boho Bride will find Riedel’s “O” Glass a perfect fit for her carefree lifestyle, while the Modern, Trendsetting Bride whose perfectionist nature means she just has to have the hippest, best-in-class items at her wedding and home, will love Riedel’s Veritas Champagne Wine Glass that optimizes the taste of the world’s very best bubbly, the first glass of its kind.

@ www.riedel.com

Cuts Like a Knife 6-piece Elevate™ 100 Knives set with Rotating Knife Block $180 These new 100 Collection Elevate™ knives are made from ice-hardened, German stainless steel, strengthened with vanadium for extra durability. Their ergonomic, softgrip handles provide added comfort and grip, even when wet, and they have discreet colorcoded dots that aid knife selection when stored in a knife block.

@ www.target.com

Happy Wife, Happy Life Many brides tend to overlook some important items they’ll need for what comes after they say “I Do.” World-renowned wedding planner, event designer, lifestyle and registry expert Jung Lee of has the ultimate recommendations for the items every bride needs to fill those unforeseen gaps in her registry.

@ www.jungleeny.com

Home Run Maxwell Ryan tableware collection Ranging in price from $10.00 - $70.00

Created in collaboration with master Italian architects, Smeg’s seamlessly designed blender merges retro-inspired style with modern performance, making it easier than ever to tackle all kinds of food prep tasks.

Bring a touch of spa-like luxury to your every day with Wamsutta Perfect Soft Micro Cotton Bath Towels. Crafted of high-quality, ring spun cotton, these durable and ultraabsorbent bath towels feature an extra-soft, plush feel.

The Maxwell Ryan series is comprised of dinnerware, glassware and select textiles; designed with clean, practical elegance in mind. The dinnerware portion of the collection, which consists of dinner plates, salad plates, pasta bowls, cereal bowls, fruit bowls, and an assortment of mugs, is available in two colors; grey and matte white.

@ www.smegusa.com

@ www.bedbathandbeyond.com

@ www.canvashomestore.com

Stay Dry Blender Bender SMEG BLF01 Pastel Green & Pink Blender $249.99

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Wamsutta perfect soft micro cotton bath towels $14.99

Candle Perfect MTodd candle from $54

Looking for the perfect bridesmaids and groomsmen gift? Marie Todd’s Signature and MTodd candle collections have you covered. These thoughtful gifts are beautifully adorned in award-winning packaging, allowing you to skip the wrapping.

@ www.marietodd.com

For the Chef The new stainless cookware makes a perfect addition to wedding registries and serves as a great, long lasting wedding gift. The Viking 5-Ply Hard Stainless cookware set combines highly heat conducive aluminum with a nonreactive stainless steel interior delivering a dishwasher safe and induction capable performance - perfect for home chefs.

@ clippercorp.com/brands_viking.html

Perk Alert

KRUPS EA84 falcon $999

Give the newlyweds the gift of professional cappuccino at home with the full-automatic espresso machine.We also suggest the Moka Brew, Grind and Brew KM7000, and Electronic Tea Maker.

Treat Yourself

@ www.krupsusa.com

9-Tray digital controller 3948CDB $329.95 Update your kitchen with the latest technology.

For couples seeking revolutionary, highperformance small kitchen appliances, a food dehydrator is the perfect appliance to make healthy treats and raw foods such as allnatural jerky, fruit leathers, vegetable chips and granola (preservative and additive free!).

Grilled Cheese

IMUSA’s Quesadilla Maker $19.99

The cute cooker creates golden brown quesadillas in just 4-5 minutes. Perfect for a fun, quick and easy meal, this gadget prepares the popular Mexican dish without any mess. This quesadilla maker features non-stick cooking plates, an excess drip tray, locking lid, as well as ready and heat indicator lights.

@ www.BedBathandBeyond.com

@ www.excaliburdehydrator.com

Rice, Rice Baby

T-fal 10-in-1 Rice & Multi-Cooker $118 The new T-fal 10-in-1 Rice & Multi-Cooker features all of the home cook’s cooking and baking needs in a single machine!

The T-fal 10-in-1 Rice & Multi-Cooker includes 10 cooking programs that can make everything from risotto to cake to slow-cooked stews, at the touch of a button. This do-it-all gadget is THE must-have gift for any busy chef who loves to cook!

@ www.macys.com

Give Me an A Alpha water tumbler with engraved letter $226

Fit For A King

The enforced shape of the "Alpha" set, which fits snugly into the hand, is inspired by a copper beaker from the Middle Ages. These stackable cups are ideal for young families who need products that are both elegant and practical.

Toulouse dinnerware collection $10.99-44.99

@ www.stillfried.com

@ www.fitzandfloyd.com/toulouse_87

Classic shapes on a blue or green pastel background make the Toulouse Dinnerware Collection perfect for year-round entertaining. Coordinating serving pieces and home décor featuring birds, butterflies and delicate pink flowers are also available.

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Don’t be a crybaby or at least don’t look like one! Keep your beautiful lashes from running mascara down your face with Le Volume de Chanel Waterproof ($32 chanel.com)

Bridal

Beauty for yourTips

Hide any dark circles with MAC Matchmaster Concealer ($21 maccosmetics.com) which has a natural finish and buildable coverage.

Big day

By Carla Menendez

Focus on Flawless skin and blushing cheeks. how do you get Flawless skin? look For products that enhance your natural skin. know your skin type and use products accordingly that support your type. be prepared. iF you are a crybaby make sure to use waterprooF products. most importantly have Fun with your make-up and enjoy yourselF!

Start using a fabulous skin care line at least a month before the wedding to make sure your skin does not react negatively. Your skin is an ecosystem and it usually takes two weeks to get used to a product. My favorites are AmorePacific Treatment Cleansing Oil Face & Eyes ($50 us.amorepacific.com) AmorePacific Future Response Age Defense Serum ($160)

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The groom needs a good skincare device too! Clarisonic Alpha Fit Sonic Cleansing Engineered for Men’s skin ($189 clarisonic.com) comes with two settings; Clean-shaven: cleans and preps skin for a closer, smother shave and Bearded: deep cleans without tugging for a more comfortable cleanse. This kit also includes a men’s cleanser.

Dermalogica Charcoal Rescue Masque ($46 dermalogica.com) is an allin-one treatment mask that detoxifies, brightens and exfoliates skin for a flawless result in just one use.

This 2-in 1 will be doing double duty at any wedding! Slip into a clutch and watch touch-ups become a breeze. Tarte The Lip Sculptor- Lipstick and Lip gloss ($17 ulta.com)

Foreo Luna 2 ($199) is a skin care device using T-sonic pulsations made from soft silicone which is non-porous and doesn’t harbor grime or bacteria. A bonus is the back of the Luna device channels low frequency pulsations that can be used directly on wrinkle-prone areas to help diminish appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Get those feet ready for dancing and heels with Amope Pedi Perfect Extra Coarse Electric Foot File with Diamond Crystals ($38 walmart.com). This special treat will make even the most callused feet smile.

Exfoliating your lips can prevent your lipstick from caking and will ensure a beautiful smooth application of color or bare lip. The Lip Scrub by Sara Happ in Midnight Blueberry ($24 Nordstroms. com) Afterwards, pair with a moisturizing lipstick, like Clarins Joli Rouge in Hot Pink ($27 Clairinsusa.com) Need to have your teeth camera ready?

Look to Luster Premium White Smile Illuminator Instant Whitening Kit ($18 lusterpremiumwhite. com) to brighten up your beautiful smile.

Color your cheeks sexy with a powder blush that looks great on all skin tones. Nars Orgasm ($30 Narscosmetics.com)

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Use your e n o h p t r sma e s e h t g n i to br ! e f i l o t s e stori

It’s Your DaY on Bridal tV

Bridal Extravaganza Show TV

Just scan the page app. with the

Want to see your wedding featured on BES-TV? Come by the Billboard Bride booth at the Houston Bridal Extravaganza show to meet with a scouting agent.

www.BES-TV.com - 78 -

Bridal Extravaganza Show TV

Extravaganza TV

Willie & Sara Discover their love story and find out why they chose the first venue they visited, The Bell Tower on 34th. Also, heed Sara’s advice about booking a date. Watch the complete interview on your phone.

Jacob & Stacia They met in high school, but never dated; and reunited on a river trip.

Their story includes a family Christmas dinner and his brother’s wedding.

Watch it all on your phone.

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T

The new West Elm, City Center is similar to a candy shop, but filled with things you need and want for your home. West Elm has the perfect bridal registry. They do not have pre-packaged products, so when you create something for your registry, it is unique to you and your home. They’ll also monogram towels and linens with your new initials, name or anything you want it to say. Home stylists ensure you include everything you’ll need and help create the right look. When you officially become Mrs., your new favorite things can be in every room of your house.

West Elm by

Jade Lewis & Rocio Graña

West Elm’s gift cards can be used at any West Elm, Williams-Sonoma or Pottery Barn.

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Registering is easy with their user-friendly app.

Scan the items you want while shopping in the store and it creates a registry list; keep track of who gave you what with the “easy-to-use� thank you note manager.

You can upgrade your experience by booking a private registry event.

All brides registering at West Elm get 10% off items that were not purchased for 6 months after their wedding.

West Elm partnered with wedding website designer Riley & Grey; brides get 30% off personal wedding websites when registering with West Elm. - 81 -

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Trends

Julia Stiles

Eva Longoria

Rosie Huntington Liv Tyler

Celebrity Inspiration for Vintage Rings

We are lusting over some of the hottest celebrities’ diamond engagement rings. They are shiny, bold and beautiful.

Here are some of the most fabulous celebrity inspired rings with a vintage twist from Trumpet and Horn renowned e-business dedicated to the curation of vintage and estate engagement rings.

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Lydia Hearst

Kym Johnson Hannah Davis

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photos:

Trumpet and Horn

Julienne Hough

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Bridal Extravaganza January 7-8

George R Brown • Houston

Two fun-filled Days!

Major Prizes Formal Fashion Shows Educational Seminars Brides Register Online for Free Gift BridalExtravaganzaShow.com

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photo: ANA&IVAN photography c gown: Ventura’s Bridal Fashions c hair and makeup: Simple Beauty Artistry

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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.

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Photo by: Stephanie Rogers Photography

DELLIT Designs WEDDING & EVENT FLORAL DESIGN AND STYLING fawn@fdellit.com « www.fdellit.com « 281-762-1531 /fdellitdesigns

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Callie rae spry Koby aaron Clemens

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November 20, 2015

Dana Fernandez Photography

real weddings

Love is a Home Run

Callie, who does real estate accounting and Koby, baseball clinic owner and spring training instructor for the Houston astros, met while Koby was visiting a friend in dallas. “my friend ran into Callie at dinner, i found her on Facebook, and the rest is history,” says the groom.

Callie is a graduate of Texas Tech University; Koby was drafted by the Houston astros in the 8th round out of memorial High school in the 2005 mlb draft. He spent 10 years playing professional baseball. new years eve 2014, Koby’s parents, roger and debbie Clemens, had friends over to their Houston home for Karaoke. Callie began to realize something was up. guests at the “small” party included all their friends and Koby’s whole family who had come in from all over Texas. as she gave her former roommates a tour of the house, she saw her parents in the driveway. They live seven hours away; she wondered if she was in trouble. The small party had swelled to 120 people when Callie noticed Koby was mia. she found him in the main house, perspiring. it was nearing midnight and he asked her to go back out and join the party. “when i got back in the music room, my shy and private Koby had the »»»

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microphone,” she recalls. “He dropped to one knee and told me how the past two years had been the most amazing of his life and asked me to marry him, in front of everyone!”

Callie was confused, unsure how Koby could pull this off without her knowing. He had planned the whole thing including having a ring designed (absolutely stunning) with a diamond his mother had passed down. The proposal was to happen at midnight, but nervous Koby couldn’t wait and popped the question at 11:20; they were married 11/20/15.

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set to a pallet of blush, grey and ivory with mercury glass accents, the reception featured large floral arrangements and two ice sculptures with candles inside of them. guests were wowed by the 10 custommade 10 ft. white led trees – a gift from the groom’s grandmother. The bride was stunning in a madeline gardner gown by mori lee. a nod to the national pastime, the ring bearer carried a vintage catcher’s glove with a baseball that had slits for the rings.

“we found out about ashton gardens at the bridal bridalextravaganza. extravaganza.ititwas wasthe the first place we toured and we loved it,” says Callie of their venue. The bride’s cake was four-tier with silver accents and a large silver letter “C” with pink orchids cascading down the side. The groom’s red velvet cake featured a Captain america shield with dallas Cowboy accent stars. The toss bouquet broke into five separate bouquets so that most of the single ladies would get a part of it. during the reception, roger Clemens got his famous karaoke going and the Clemens men sang “sugar” by maroon 5 to the bride. The couple honeymooned in the bahamas for eight days.

– laurette Veres

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real weddings

Casey sCHulte gregOry andrews

& Second time is the charm

Casey, a financial analyst and gregory, a software-training manager, met through greg’s cousin. Four years later, Casey was a bridesmaid in the same cousin’s wedding and that was the weekend when Casey and greg’s story truly began.

One weekend greg took Casey to the Houston Museum of science and History and had a nice dinner. The next day they went to

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May 8th, 2015

Casey’s Advice

stay true to yourself ! your wedding, above all, is for you and your closest friends and family. you can’t please everyone, so just make sure you do what makes you happy so when you look back, it is truly your most “memorable” day. another piece of advice i can give is to stay calm, and have organizational systems. i made lists and set reasonable goals each month of things i wanted to accomplish. This helped break out the wedding planning into clear steps, instead of looking at it as one giant event, which can become overwhelming.

Photographer: Scott Kelley the Houston Zoo and lunch at ruggles green. later that day, Casey walked into a room to find greg on one knee.

He said, “weekends like these are the ones i want to have forever.”

Casey chose their wedding location before it was even built,“The Carriage House” in Conroe. at the Bridal extravaganza, she found her florist and linen company. Friends and family received wooden invitations with Casey and greg’s engagement picture stained on the wood. They prayed for a beautiful day and got it. The wedding was set along a creek with big beautiful

trees as the backdrop. at 5:09pm on May 9, 2015, Casey walked through the big wooden gates and down the aisle in a gorgeous winnie Couture gown.

Back in the beautiful wooden reception hall, appetizers and drinks were passed and guests enjoyed a full buffet. They had a s’mores wedding cake and golf cupcakes for the groom

by Holly Mosley. The signature drink was the bride’s own recipe, a sandía (watermelon) margarita.

Casey and greg honeymooned on the big island in Hawaii.

- Jade lewis

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real weddings

Brittany eBerly Jordan Pieratt

Dance the Night Away Brittany and Jordan met in october 2008 at the austin County Fair when Jordan, being a texas gentleman, came and asked her for a dance when she was standing on her own. Five years later, they shared their first dance all over again as husband and wife. Jordan surprised Brittany with an amazing proposal in front of the Bellagio fountain show on her 21st birthday in las Vegas. They were able to celebrate her birthday and their engagement with her parents, sister, and his mom who accompanied them on the trip.

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November 15, 2014

Photographer: Jaylene Debenedictis

&

Brittany’s Advice

i would say make a list ahead of time of things you want to make sure you have. i asked all my girls to be bridesmaids by giving them hangers with their names on them that said, “will you hang by my side?” well i ended up without one: mine. i had totally forgotten about ordering one for myself, until the day my photographer asked to take a picture of my dress.

But in all honesty, don’t sweat the small stuff.

The saying is true even though you may not believe it. now i look back and can’t even see the hanger, and who cares?!? girls, hire an amazing wedding planner who thinks of everything! i’ve heard so many girls say they don’t even eat at their wedding, and don’t try the food they spent so much money on! Just a cool idea, enlist someone to make sure you have a to-go container of wedding goodies for after the wedding! The hotel ride was super enjoyable with a full tummy! also, you can make anything cute and just plain awesome! i was so worried about all the mount and deer heads in one of the ballrooms.

My wedding planner hung feathers and ribbon from the antlers and they turned out so cute!

They tied the knot at eberly ranch in Chappell Hill, tX at Brittany’s family ranch. Brittany wore an allure Bridal dress that was the same that Jessa duggar wore at her wedding. The cake was from Piece of Cake in Brenham, tX, designed by the bride herself. The couple was lucky to have six of their nieces and nephews walk down the aisle as flower girls and ring bearers. They ended the celebrations by taking an amazing and relaxing honeymoon in san Juan, Puerto rico.

- Fatema shariff

one thing i learned was to really think about who you want at your wedding. we had about 465 guests, which is actually small for a washington County wedding. i think Jordan and i both wish we would have had more of an intimate wedding. it gets hard though, who to invite and where to draw the line. That day is already a blur, and then to add so many people to greet is really stressful. But despite not getting a chance to say hello to everyone, we were surrounded by so much love and we are very blessed.

Just a funny side note. don’t forget about the Marriage license. we luckily got it the day before. a judge had to waive the 72 hour hold! yikes that was a close one! on an end note, it was seriously the best day ever. god gave us a wonderful wedding to cherish and start our journey together with him. we are having so much fun as husband and wife!

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real weddings

Courtney landry Landry Kolby KoLby brailsFord braiLsford

&

December 5, 2014

Courtney, a clinical pharmacist, and Kolby, a utilization and training consultant, attended new Faith Church for years without noticing each other. Kolby’s mom urged him to meet the “cute girl at church”, but he didn’t know who she was talking about. They finally met when Courtney was about 22 years old. Kolby followed up with a message through Facebook and she responded…three months later! Courtney continued taking her sweet time to respond to his messages; Kolby took this as a challenge. after avoiding an actual date for

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Photography by Khanh Nguyen

Black-Tie Affair

Courtney’s Advice:

• Do your homework and start planning early enough so you have time to assess several different vendors for each part of your wedding.

• Don’t let anyone try to “save you from your own ideas”. if you love it and want it, go for it! it’s your day!

• Do a wishing well for the wedding rather than registering.

• Expect your guest list to increase by at least 50 people from your first count.

• Create a joint “wedding bank account” with your fiancé and deposit money in it monthly. Pay all of your wedding expenses out of this account.

quite some time, Courtney finally gave in and one chance was all it took.

Courtney graduated from pharmacy school in 2013. Her parents and sister gave speeches after the graduation ceremony, Kolby followed. He said how proud he was; he regretted the shoes he bought as her graduation gift, didn’t come in time. instead, he had “the gift of song”. The music to ‘Marry Me’ by train began to play and Kolby attempted to sing, but became so choked up he was only able to get out about 9 words! “i said yes obviously!”

Courtney says.

when they toured Chateau Cocomar, Courtney remembers feeling like a princess entering her castle, making it the obvious choice for their wedding. going along with the venue’s formal and classic theme, cocktail-hour kicked off a great black-tie evening. eleven bridesmaids flanked Courtney, in her ivory silk ysa Makino gown with a dropped waistline and a pleated bottom; 11 groomsmen stood by Kolby. The ceremony and dinner were very classy, and afterwards everyone enjoyed cake from Edible Designs by Jessie and celebrating with the new couple. riviera Maya, Mexico was chosen for their honeymoon, and they enjoyed their romantic stay at Grand Velas Resorts.

- Carolina Hernandez

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Meera Krishna david Peterson

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October 4, 2014

Photography by Joe West

real weddings

New York State of Mind Meera and david met at dartmouth College at a party during Meera’s freshman year and david’s sophomore year. They immediately felt a connection and began dating a few months later.

Meera’s advice:

i would recommend taking as many family photos before the ceremony as possible. This really freed up time after the ceremony to jump right into reception fun without losing any momentum.

after they moved to new York, david planned a scavenger hunt in the west village of nYC that led Meera to her favorite restaurants and ended at their apartment where david was waiting to propose. she said yes, and david took her to triBeCa where all of their friends and families gathered to surprise her with an engagement party.

The vineyard at Florence in Florence, texas “was such a beautiful, elegant and bucolic setting,” Meera said, making it suitable for their indian/western fusion wedding. The leave the details to Me team put an elegant twist on the traditional indian wedding making it a successful multicultural evening. The bride’s ceremony gown was custom made from india; her reception gown was by alice & olivia.

Meera and david spent their honeymoon in turkey.

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SANS SOUCI b a l l r o o m

elegance & style for your perfect event

elegance & style

Elegance and style

San Souci Ballroom 26511 State Highway 249 Tomball, TX 77375 - 160 -

281.803.3333

www. sanssoucihouston.com info@SanSouciBallroom.com

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real weddings

sHauna Shauna singleton Singleton Jerry eMMons emmonS

&

May 29th, 2015

I Scream for Ice Cream!

after a couple dips of rocky road, they returned to the car, but it wouldn’t start.

Jerry began tinkering, trying to get the car running. He asked shauna for some tools in the trunk; she was shocked to see a beautiful diamond ring boldly displayed in an elaborate setup. as she stood in disbelief, shauna found Jerry on one knee

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Photography by Scott Kelley

in March of 2014, Jerry was leaving town on a business trip. shauna and Jerry decided to take one of their classic cars out for an ice cream date before he left. Jerry had an even sweeter plan.

Shauna’s Advice:

First tip is to just BreatHe! Know what you want and do not shy away from making your wedding the way you want it.

The guests are usually very eager to see the beautiful union, the unique details and the personal touches that help depict who the bride and groom are as a couple. also, my day-of Coordinator was a saving grace! she was able to assist me with certain items i did not even think about; a true asset to my wedding. Consider a coordinator if you can! lastly, do not forget to stop to take it all in, because it goes by so fast.

Photographer: Scott Kelley asking the words we all would hope to hear someday, “will you marry me?”

Jerry’s friend Clint, who helped set up the “kill switch” for the car, was also in the distance taking pictures of the entire proposal. “it was a terrific surprise and i loved the effort Jerry put into this one of a kind proposal,” shauna says.

The wedding was a long time coming; Jerry and shauna had been dating over 10 years.

They tied the knot at Pecan springs in Brookshire, texas. guests walked down “our Memory lane,” a ten-year collection of handwritten letters, birthday cards, love notes and other cherished keepsakes.

- Thutrang Mai

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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

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if you would like to travel in style aboard a nostalgic Original Trolley, give us a call at 281-491-4911.

we are dedicated to making every occassion a memory that will last a lifetime. visit our website photo gallery at

www.OriginalTrolley.com

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real weddings

Briana galt scott Brandt October 4, 2014

Photography by Bend The Light

&

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Love at First Drink

Briana and scott were in waco, tX pursuing their careers when they met at The salty dog bar. after a spell of long distance dating, they moved to Houston for jobs at Presto Maintenance supply, a family-owned maintenance supply company, where Briana became the sales & Marketing director and scott became the it & operations Manager.

Briana’s Advice:

Before you pick a day, think about who are the most important people to you that you would want to be at your wedding. who would you be devastated if they couldn’t attend? if you have a list of people, like we did, make sure you consider their availability before you pick a date. we did something that most people don’t do. we sent out an email asking them their availability for 2014. we took this information and when we toured venues, we chose a date when everyone could make it.

in the fall of 2013, Briana and scott decided to take a 3-week road trip to california to retrieve furniture from her grandparents who had just passed away.

They packed up the car and headed west.

Briana’s grandparents built a cabin many years ago in arnold, ca, a cute town between Yosemite and tahoe. Briana skied many winters there, and spent summers swimming in the lake. it was scott’s first trip to the cabin, but he had heard Briana and her family talk about all of their adventures and thought it would be the perfect place to propose. as they walked around the cabin, scott got down on one knee and asked Briana to marry him!

Their wedding ceremony was at Hofmann ranch, in castroville, tX where they utilized every location possible at the ranch. Their marriage ceremony was at the cast iron gate &

stone wall while dinner was served inside the grande Hall. in addition, their cocktail hour was at the brick patio area between the grande Hall and the Pavilion. later in the evening, the dancing and entertainment segment was held outside under the Pavilion with live country music from The emotions. to add a rustic touch, cigars were hand rolled by the outdoor Fireplace.

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Mica gillian ruck christopher paul elder

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April 19, 2014

Photographer: Alison CARLINO with Carlino’s Photography

real weddings

Mica’s Advice:

“have fun. You don’t have to be the perfect pinterest bride. do things that you and your future husband love. The real fun and smiles and laughter will shine through.”

Play Ball!

Mica and chris like to tell people they met when chris, a houston police officer, pulled Mica over for speeding. when chris laid eyes on Mica he found her to be so cute that there was just no way he could ever write her a ticket. while the couple truly met via e-harmony and bonded through messages during their late night shifts there was no denying that chris actually found Mica to be a real catch. after seeking the permission of Mica’s parents, chris planned an intricate wedding proposal in which he placed the ring on the straw of Mica’s favorite drink from dunkin donuts. after making a brief exit to collect herself Mica re-entered the room and of course said yes!

Being from new Jersey, Mica wanted a wedding that strayed from the typical ballroom feel. The couple decided to tie the knot on home plate at Minute Maid park in april.

Mica wore a winnie couture dress that made her feel truly beautiful. The reception was held in the diamond club and the couple even hosted a softball game on the day of their wedding to get everyone in the spirit.

The couple honeymooned in Maui, where they finally got a break from their fatiguing night shift hours. The sporty couple definitely knocked this wedding out of the park!

-ashley petty

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real weddings

andrea Mayes Brice Mccain

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March 29. 2014

Photography Jaylene Debenedictis

&

It was time for the Touchdown

These two high school sweethearts fell in love early in life. The professional nFl football player, Brice Mccain proposed to the love of his life, andrea Mayes on Valentine’s day in 2013. He was ready for his touch down and made it official with his one and only. andrea wore a stunning lazaro lace gown from weddings by debbie; Brice wore a navy Blue louis Vuitton dinner Jacket.

The ceremony took place at Union station, dallas, TX. andrea loved the high ceilings and Brice loved the caterer, so it was a win/ win situation. They had two exquisite cakes

made by lauren. andrea also took time to learn the guitar five months leading up to the wedding and surprised Brice with a special performance, which put the cherry on top of the cake.

- Jade lewis

Andrea’s Advice:

it is really important that you hire a planner who really knows this business, knows their vendors and is willing to get to know you as a couple. wedding planning is not easy, but a great planner will take some of the stress away.

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real weddings

amanda rose myers michael Victor malet Novemeber 8, 2014

Garden District Romance amanda myers, a 4th grade teacher, and michael malet, a realtor for Keller williams, met in high school through mutual friends. The night they met michael drove amanda home, and according to amanda, “they fell in love right then and there!� cue the emo music playing on the car stereo and the scene could have come right out of a teenage romantic comedy.

Fast forward a few years later and michael proposed to amanda on Friday, december 13th. while this date has been notorious for bad luck, the couple

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Photographer: Khanh Nguyen

&

Amanda’s Advice

“Focus on the feeling! i once read that it’s the feeling you remember from your wedding, not the small details. once mikey and i decided that we wanted a love and laughter vibe with family being the focus, everything fell into place.”

were tattoos of the couple’s faces and guests enjoyed food from a taco truck and gourmet pizzas.

amanda wanted to connect with the people she loves. Bridesmaids’ necklaces were made with the same beading in amanda’s dress.

The beading from her headpiece was duplicated on her mother’s, mother-in-law’s, and sister-inlaw’s bracelets; pieces of her dress were featured on the groomsmen boutonnieres.

has experienced nothing but good karma during their marriage.

They were married at avantgarden in montrose on november 8, 2014. montrose had been their stomping ground for seven years and this venue incorporated all of the uniqueness the area has to offer. The wedding itself was untraditional, but still incorporated a beautiful message of connecting their families together. The bride and her sister received henna tattoos the night before the wedding; the party favors

amanda and michael have not planned their honeymoon yet, as they are waiting for the summer for school to get out of session since amanda is a teacher.

- maddie addicks

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real weddings

Catrina Coverdale Cory vanallen

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October 18, 2015

Friends Know Best

Catrina’s Advice:

Catrina, a sr. research Compliance specialist at UtHealth, and Cory, a professional baseball player, had mutual high school friends but their paths never crossed. when they met at one of their friend’s birthday party, they knew they were meant to be together. Cory’s a lefthanded pitcher and needed a right-handed woman. They got engaged nine months later at the museum.

allocate more of your budget to photos and video. if you were not planning on getting wedding videographers, think again. also, put your funds toward a wedding day coordinator. enjoy yourself and focus your attention on yourself and your fiancé/spouse. you must mentally check out the morning of your wedding and let someone tell you what to do and where to be so you can be in the moment at all times. i was able to have meaningful conversations with my best friends and family as well as my new husband. don’t sweat all the small stuff, just do it and be done with it the week before the wedding day!

Catrina’s mother suggested safari texas ranch in richmond, tX for the

Photography by ChrisWPhoto.com

ceremony and Catrina and Cory fell in love with the rose Chapel on the property. Catrina walked down the aisle in a beautiful trumpet gown by Matthew Christopher. The six tier, three-flavor cake was topped with original art of their new family, bride, groom and dogs, and

was created by gwen Barba of the Concarta design studio in los angeles, Ca. in place of the traditional guestbook, ten of their favorite albums were signed; they are now framed and hanging on a wall in their home. They honeymooned at Matachica Beach resort on ambergris Caye, Belize.

- Jade lewis

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erika Taylor Michael whiTney

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&

September 26, 2015

Photography by Christina Carroll Photography

real weddings

Erika’s Advice:

Rustic Glam

erika, a nurse, was living in new Jersey and wanting to move back to Texas when she agreed to help her friend’s boyfriend move. she ended up moving into that apartment with the friend’s boyfriend’s roommate Michael, a cPa. she agreed to stay in Jersey if they could have a Texas wedding.

Michael’s family helped with the christmas day proposal. an emotional dad pulled out the guitar and played darius rucker’s “This”, the couple’s favorite song, as Michael tried to sing the lyrics and pop the question.

The ceremony was at kevin Fowler’s rustic ranch in wimberley, TX. They hung chandeliers in the trees, added floral arrangements and gold accents to create the “rustic glam” event. erika was stunning in her ivory casablanca dress with a strapless sweetheart neckline and soft tulle ruched bodice. The guests, especially those from the northeast, enjoyed the heaping help of Texas with wooden barrels, BBQ, drinks in mason jars

“work together. it’s both of your wedding and it will be easier if you work together as a team than just one person taking control and doing all the work. at the same time, listen to what your significant other wants in a wedding and compromise. we’ve heard horror stories from other friends about planning for a wedding and ours seemed to go pretty smoothly. There were some bumps but we worked together and were able to get through it. also something will probably go wrong at your wedding, but don’t worry about it. we never had our champagne toast and we were very behind schedule with everything, but no one ever noticed. all your guests are having such a good time that the small things that you notice, they won’t notice at all.”

and an old-time saloon. a large wooden cut out of Texas served as the guestbook. erika and Michael celebrated their honeymoon at sandals grande antigua resort and spa where they overlooked white sand and turquoise waters.

- Thutrang Mai

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ENtErtAININg

By Jade Lewis

New Year’s Day

EngagEmEnt CElEbration Theme: Arabian Night

I

I used to live in Dubai and know a lot about the culture, so I added a hint of Arabian magic to the party. An Arabian night has a lot of dark colors and I wanted the linens to represent the feeling. At House of Hough I chose maroon, dark blue and gold. At HEB Blooms, I bought an assortment of deep pink, purple and red flowers; my mom, Belinda Lewis, arranged them into beautiful centerpieces.

Next to the flowers, I placed gold genie lanterns to enhance the Arabian theme.

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The party started at noon, so Bloody Mary and Champagne bars were very popular with the large crowd. Placing one bar inside and the other outside on the porch kept people moving and mingling, so the party had a good flow. Other stations included an interactive photo booth from DJU Productions (you can write on the photo before it’s printed!), fun room for the kids manned by Houston Face Painting and Balloon Art and a chocolate fountain. A henna artist continued the Arabian theme by creating body art on eager attendees.

Photography by Anthony Rathbun

my best friend got engaged on Christmas and i wanted to combine her good fortune with a lucky 2016. i started planning a new Year’s Day event.

If you have fun, drinks and lots of people, you need good food. With a nod to a lucky, prosperous 2016, the gourmet menu started with good luck fare: black-eyed peas with pork hocks and salt pork, cabbage sautéed with hickory-smoked bacon and a corn bread bar with assorted jellies, jams and butters. Heartier dishes included glazed corned beef, fresh salmon fillets soaked in a soy/maple syrup marinade, then smoked until cooked through and a sea bass/halibut/bay scallop ceviche. Sausage/parmesan stuffed mushrooms, cheese plates, fruit and veggie trays and assorted snacks stations were constantly being restocked to keep up with the hungry crowd.

As people enjoyed the food, décor and each other’s company, the party became a huge success. The bride-to-be was thrilled with her engagement celebration; it’s going to be an excellent 2016!

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entertaininG

Italian

Invite

your future in-laws to break bread and celebrate the joining of two families.

The recipes here include harvests from my small backyard garden and will add some Italian flare to your meal.

Comfort Food

By Tom Flynn

DĂŠcor and drink recipe by Daniela Rivera

COCKTAIL

Dessert recipe by Rick McMillen

Limoncello-Champagne Spritzer This drink is easy to make, and a perfect accompaniment to the menu. Limoncello, a sweet Italian liqueur and after-dinner favorite, is mild and refreshing.

1. Fill each glass with ice.

ice champagne, chilled limoncello, chilled seltzer lemon wedges

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2. Fill the glasses halfway with the champagne, then add a tablespoon of limoncello and top off with the seltzer. Gently mix.

3. Garnish with a lemon wedge and enjoy!

photo credit: H Texas Magazine

APPETIZER

Roasted Bone Marrow with Parsley Salad Crostini FoR the SaLad

Bone marrow is a healthy, nutritious fat (think: avocado). I buy it at my local Kroger. The bones are already cut into circles about an inch-and-a-half thick. You can also get them at meat markets; they will cut them on request.

2

tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1

tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1

cup flat-leaf parsley, slightly chopped

1/ 3

cup sliced shallots

1

tablespoon capers, chopped

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Crusty white bread, toasted

FoR the MaRRow 8

bone marrow pieces

1. Whisk olive oil and lemon juice and pour over parsley, shallots and capers, then toss. Season with salt and pepper and chill for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with foil. Place the bones on the sheet and season them

with salt and pepper. Bake for 15 minutes. remove from oven and season again.

3. to serve: Place 2 bones on each plate with a couple pieces of toast. add some parsley salad and pour the marrow drippings from the baking sheet over the bread.

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ENTRÉES

eggplant Parmesan Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it’s exceptionally tasty when you take the time to make your own homemade marinara sauce.

FoR the MaRInaRa 1/ 2

cup extra-virgin olive oil

9

cloves garlic, chopped

2

tablespoons tomato paste

2

(35-ounce) cans whole, peeled Italian tomatoes with juice

2

large basil sprigs sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

FoR the eggPLant 1–2 eggplants 2

eggs

1

cup flour (more if needed)

1/ 3

cup canola oil (more if needed) grated Parmesan cheese to taste

2

cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. 2. Make the marinara: Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. toss in the garlic and cook until golden. add tomato paste and stir.

Crush tomatoes by hand into pan along with the juice. add basil and season with salt and pepper.

Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then simmer over low heat, until the marinara thickens and reduces by a third. adjust with salt and pepper to taste; discard the basil and set aside.

Spicy Seafood Vermicelli

3. Peel the eggplants and slice lengthwise into ½-inch-thick slices. Beat the eggs in a wide, shallow bowl. Dip the eggplant slices into the eggs, then coat them with flour.

One of my regular go-to dishes, this vermicelli is quick, healthy and delicious. This fancy version features shrimp, lobster and scallops. You can cook the base (using all of the ingredients from the olive oil to the sage) days in advance, then reheat it and add the vermicelli for a super-fast, flavorful dinner.

4. Heat oil in a separate pan over medium heat. add eggplant slices and cook until golden brown, flip and repeat. transfer to a baking dish, cover with the marinara, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and top with a handful of mozzarella. Bake until the mozzarella begins to brown, about 15 minutes.

2

tablespoons olive oil

1

basil sprig, leaves chopped

6

cloves garlic, chopped

1

sage sprig, leaves chopped

3

serrano peppers, halved and seeded

4

6

stalks celery, chopped

sea scallops, patted dry and seasoned with salt and pepper

2

medium onions, chopped

1

cup white wine

4

(6-ounce) cans chopped clams with juice

3

tablespoons butter

1

(8-ounce) package white mushrooms, sliced sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined 4

medium lobster tails, shelled and cut into medallions

3

cups cooked vermicelli grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

DESSERT

Cheese Crisps with Berries ’n Crème Fraiche Executing the right crispness to this Parmigiano-Reggiano crisp is key. Paired with a few juicy berries and the smooth lightness of crème fraiche makes for culinary harmony.

1. Make the crème fraiche: Heat the whipping cream in a small saucepan over low heat to 100°F. remove from heat and pour into a jar. Stir in the buttermilk.

Seal and allow it to rest at room temperature for 24 hours. Can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

2. Make the crisps: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place a mound of 1½ tablespoons of cheese onto a nonstick baking sheet. Gently pat it into a 2-inch circle. repeat

1

cup whipping cream

2

tablespoons buttermilk

8

ounces parmesan cheese, finely shredded

1

cup of your favorite berries

until all the cheese is gone.

Place into the oven for about 3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 1 minute, then remove with a spatula and place each crisp on top of a martini glass, gently pressing the centers in. allow the crisps to cool, forming the unique cup shape.

3. to serve, place the crisps onto your serving platter and add a small dollop of crème fraiche and the berries.

1. in a large skillet over medium heat, warm oil and add garlic and peppers; cook until the garlic starts to brown. add celery and onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. add the wine, clams, butter and mushrooms; season with salt and pepper. reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.

2. remove the lid, increase the heat to medium high and cook until the liquid evaporates. add herbs and adjust seasonings.

3. Move the veggie mixture to one side of the pan and add scallops.

Sear for 2 minutes, then flip. add shrimp and lobster and cook until the lobster is done, about 3 minutes. Stir in pasta and remove from the heat. Plate and top with a good dose of grated Parmesan cheese.

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Worthy

Bridal Extravaganza Show

Attend the

July 23 ˜ 24

and enter to win these prizes and more!

Prize

Tee Time

Let your groom have some fun as he and his buddies have a guy’s day out courtesy of Sweetwater Country Club.

Rock On

Consider a wedding or honeymoon at Hard Rock Hotels. Stop by booth 614 – Around About Travel for your chance to win!

Attention ALL Brides Bridal parties and family of the bride: Look and feel your absolute best in your dress (or tuxedo)!

Discover Wellness is committed to getting you healthy before the big day! This program will ensure you energy, focus, balance and visible changes of radiance! Win this prize $2000 value! www.discoverwellnesshouston.com

Billboard Style Want to be featured on the next Bridal Extravaganza Show billboard? Well brides, it can happen to you! Just stop by the booth and have your picture taken. Be sure to meet our talent scouts and let them know why you should be selected.

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Detox Today Reverse the effects of overconsumption, fast food, bad food choices, alcohol, and environmental pollution at Deer Lake Lodge and Spa. Push the “reset” button and get back to a healthier way of living. Their program of fasting, juicing, cleansing and colonics is designed to energize, strengthen and enlighten.

Worthy

Casa Patricia

Prize

Win this trip and your honeymoon could be at the lux Casa Patricia in Puerto Vallarta.

Riu Palace St. Martin Hotel

Perfect Gift

Ultimate Wedding Box The Ultimate Wedding Box is the perfect gift for the bride-to-be. Simply select the number of months you’d like the bride to receive the box. A surprise box will be shipped to her each month.

Ultimateweddingbox.com

Get in shape for the big day Revolve Pole Studio is Houston’s premier pole and aerial dance and fitness studio.

Led by the some of the best instructors in the city, Revolve creates an environment where everybody and every body can let go of inhibitions and let their spirit “revolve.” Classes are designed to cater to all levels of fitness. Host the bachelorette party all your friends will be talking about.

The Riviera Maya awaits thanks to the folks at Travel Lifestyles. Visit booth 1001 for your chance to win.

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Courtyard by Marriott is a great wedding venue in Katy Mills Katy, TX,

offering brides on a budget a beautiful unique experience. We are a one-stop-shop for the bride to plan her day, including setting up room block for out-of-town guests.

We specialize in exquisite wedding décor and floral designs. Ask to meet our Marriott Certified Event Planner on-site to assist the bride with her vision of having a memorable day at our Courtyard by Marriott Katy Mills banquet room location.

Call to schedule your appointment today!

281.394.0326

25402 Katy Mills Parkway • Katy, TX 77494 • www.marriott.com/houky - 246 -

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Make plans to attend

Houston Wedding

A pop-up event at the Bridal Extravaganza Show PhotograPhy by Erin WiEsE

LEArn from the best wedding vendors in town

Enterin -to-wive excluses priz

find out what you need to know - 252 -

events

Seminars Claim the industry’s most coveted Swag Bag Distinguished speakers include: Lewis Grell

of LG Entertainment

Krista Borchard

of Event Identity, LLC

Clara Hough

Deb Turner

of MD Turner Photography

Ashley DeFrees

of My Urban Invites

Anthony and Linda Dinh

CPCE, Owner/President of House of Hough

of Composure Studios

Jessie Lopez

of CafĂŠ Natalie

of Edible Designs by Jessie

Mariana Lopez

of Edible Designs by Jessie

Rebekah Cunningham of Dream Bouquet

Chris Nguyen Jamie Purpera

of The Crystal Ballroom

Jill Vidal

of EB Inc. Events Rental/Design

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Couples looking for a laid-back vibe bathed in luxury for their destination wedding, Las Terrazas Resort and Residences, located on the island of Ambergris Caye in Belize, offers a secluded destination for weddings of all sizes. Steps away from the beach and the world’s second largest living Barrier Reef, the awarding-winning resort (Condé Nast Johansens pick, LVX Preferred Hotel, Virtuoso Preferred Resort and 2016 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award winner, just to name a few), is known on the island as a destination where leisure meets luxury.

Traveling to Belize has never been easier, more convenient or more affordable as more airlines are now offering direct flights from Texas. The Caribbean location is only about a two hour flight to Belize City. After a 15minute flight from Belize City to Ambergris Caye, or a slightly longer Ferry ride, guests are greeted at the San Pedro airport or ferry dock by resort staff.

Breathtaking in Belize

by Kim

They are then jetted via a private and scenic boat ride directly to the property, located 3.5 miles north of the only town on the island, San Pedro, on what most consider the more quiet area of the island. Once guests arrive, the resort greets everyone with a relaxing chair massage and a local, traditional refreshing beverage.

With the amenities of a hotel, but the comfort and roominess of a home, the condominiums start at 983 square feet with an open floor plan and offer full sized bedrooms, a generous living room space, a dining area, and fully stocked kitchen. Most

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couples opt for a third- floor ocean view penthouse that offers dazzling views of the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea and Barrier Reef and includes an oversized balcony with a private plunge pool for refreshing dips.

The resort delicately combines sleek modernity with warm, handcrafted Belizean furnishings.

For couples concerned about planning a destination wedding from the US, Las Terrazas offers a US-based reservation and fulltime wedding planner, as well as one on site for the big day.

The property has a strict policy of only hosting one wedding per day to keep the focus on the happy couple and their guests and to ensure all goes perfectly as planned.

Most couples opt to have the wedding ceremony on the

Wedding Las Terrazas offers an inTimaTe escape

beach. With the resort offering one of the biggest beachside areas available anywhere on the island, they can accommodate over 100 guests. The property does offer a smaller, more intimate landscaped area near the beach with an ocean view,

called the “Wedding Garden.”

Most receptions are held poolside and include more than adequate seating. Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence-winning O Restaurant serves local, unique fare daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant is led by Executive

Chef Papy, and is prepared to host rehearsal dinners, private dinners on the beach, Lion Fish Cooking Classes, and a completely customized menu for the reception or a guest’s entire stay.

While luxury and privacy is Las Terrazas’ calling card, seclusion

doesn’t have to be limited on this destination experience. The resort offers golf carts for rent that easily allow for a 15-minute drive to visit San Pedro, for sightseeing, shopping, exploring the quaint downtown parks, markets and vendors, or a night out on the town. Visitors don’t need to rush to convert their dollars either, as US currency is accepted universally on the island, as are most credit cards.

And adding convenience to comfort, all Belizeans speak fluent English.

The resort can arrange for excursions throughout the stay for the wedding party and happy couple, including the popular fly over of the famous Blue Hole

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and surrounding islands via airplane. Guests surely won’t want to pass up the once in a lifetime opportunity to snorkel or dive at the Barrier Reef ’s Hol Chan, Mexican Rocks, and Shark and Stingray Alley. Add on the resort’s signature excursion to include a private beach bar-be-que near the Sandbar.

Exploring even further off of Ambergris Caye is easily accomplished. A short boat ride to nearby Caye Caulker, the smaller of the two neighboring islands, offers quaint, relaxed shops and beaches. Guests can also head to the mainland via ferry or airplane to enjoy hiking in the Rain Forest, cave tubing, zip-lining and exploring the ancient Mayan ruins. For those looking to stay close to home,

Center. While the spa offers traditional services, such as massage, body wraps, facials, waxing, manicure and pedicure, it’s the one-of-a-kind offerings that guests won’t find at other resorts. Signature treatments include the Coconut Glow, a full body exfoliation that combines the resort offers complimentary rentals of kayaks, paddle boards, water bikes, fishing poles, yoga mats, and catamarans.

A visit to Las Terrezas would not be complete without indulging in the resort’s unique Caribbean spa experiences at the Serenity Spa and Wellness

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natural local honey, sea salts and Belizean virgin coconut oil.

The Mayan Abdominal Therapy focuses on digestive health via massage techniques. And for guests needing a complete overhaul, the spa offers “Can’t Get Enough” packages, such as the Peace Out, Island Diva, and the Ix-Chel – the Mayan Goddess of Healing. All treatments are offered in-suite, on the beach, poolside, or in the privacy of the spa.

For more information, visit www.lasterrazasresort.com

• 100% Biodegradable • Non-Toxic or Caustic • Child and Pet Safe • Scientifically formulated from banana and coconut oils

• Free from acids, alcohol, ammonia, soaps, detergents and abrasives • Recommended for all metals and stones

www.myjewelrycleaner.com • Toll-free 866.734.4492 • snjc@comcast.net

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Lush trees filled with flowers, crystal clear infinity pools, margaritas by the beach, peacocks roaming the grounds AND you can borrow a designer bag for the evening…is this the Garden of Eden? It is Casa Velas, an adultsonly, all inclusive, boutique hotel and ocean club in Puerto Vallarta.

Casa Velas was named the 8th Best Hotel in the World on the Expedia 2013 Insiders’ SelectTM List and is the perfect location for a destination wedding.

Garden

A Wedding Wonderland in Puerto Vallarta

by Vicki

All-inclusive wedding packages at a Velas Resort will exceed your wildest dreams. Expect romantic sunsets, ethereal ocean views and breathtaking venues.

Couples can exchange vows on the beach while overlooking the emerald waters, or in a beachfront garden gazebo or banquet salon.

Upon arriving at Casa Velas your first impression is that you’ve entered the home of someone extremely wealthy and important in Mexico. The feeling

of a Spanish Hacienda is created with cast iron chandeliers, high arched ceilings with columns and wooden beams and a water rock garden in the lounging area.

You are greeted with a strong Mexican margarita while overlooking the heavenly gardens and pool. There are small ponds flowing through the gardens filled with flowering lily pads and gorgeous golden koi. Amongst the palm trees are romantic cabanas lining the pool area perfect for your mimosa-induced mid afternoon nap. The vibe of the pool area is one of sophistication, romance and luxury. Most of the guests

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are couples here to relax and connect with one another on a deeper level. Just behind the dreamy pool area are the greens of Marina Vallarta’s 18-hole golf course, which any avid golfer should not miss.

You won’t go hungry at Casa Velas. On the property is the casually elegant, award winning, Four Diamond rated Emiliano restaurant which serves both Mexican and international cuisine. The chef is willing to accommodate even the pickiest of eaters and creates beautiful Instagram-worthy meals. When staying at Casa Velas, the guests also have access to their sister resorts including the three gourmet restaurants at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and the Ocean Club where the sunsets of the Mexican Pacific will never disappoint.

of Eden

You’ll sleep peacefully in your recently renovated suite with private entrance, loaded mini bar and goose down comforter.

In the Grand Class suites you can even have your own personal Jacuzzi on the terrace. If you’re craving a midnight snack there

is 24-hour in room suite service and premium liquors and wines for an evening nightcap. Upon waking up, you might be lucky enough to spot the resident peacocks roaming the grounds behind your room. They are raised on the property and are so

tame that they will actually eat out of your hand. Be prepared to go home with at least 100 pictures of the peacocks on your phone!

After indulging in tequila and gourmet meals the day before you’ll be ready to burn some

calories. The garden-view fitness center is just the place to get you in shape to hit the Ocean Club feeling fit. The fitness center has state-of-the-art exercise equipment and is located on the first floor below Spa Casa Velas.

The spa includes treatment rooms for singles and couples, a hydrotherapy area and a beauty salon. They offer over 60 holistic spa treatments based on healing practices from around the globe.

Vacation spa packages are an option for those who want to come home refreshed and revitalized.

After a good workout and an even better treatment in the spa, you’ll be ready for an afternoon under the Mexican sun. Hop

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on Casa Velas’ complimentary shuttle and head on over to the Ocean Club where your allinclusive status is also honored.

Your afternoon at the Ocean Club can be whatever you want it to be. You can lounge in the luxury of the beachside cabanas, take a walk on the beach, shop for local souvenirs or even rent a paddleboard. Regardless of how you spend your day it will be one you’ll hope to repeat time and time again.

As the evening approaches, make sure to visit the “handbag bar.” Guests can enjoy the use of a loaner handbag at no extra cost. They offer small, fashionable, handbags to accommodate every outfit. You can borrow bags from Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Carolina Herrera along with many other designers. The boutique also offers stylish clothing, scarves, bathing suits, and jewelry to purchase.

downtown area.Visitors can take in historic churches, art galleries, busy markets and El Malecon – the beachfront boardwalk with views of the beautiful ocean of Puerto Vallarta. If you want to eat AND take in the sights, sounds and smells of Puerto Vallarta, an evening Street As you are deciding how to spend your evening there are many enticing options. Of course you can spend your evening on the lush Casa Velas property and enjoy its atmosphere and amenities but it happens to be located only 15 minutes away from the popular

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Taco Tour is one-of-a kind and will satisfy your senses. The three-hour food tasting takes you through Centro and five de Diciembre neighborhoods including eight different locations. You’ll cover one mile of Mexican ground on the tour.

The highly informative and handsome guide will give you behind-the-scenes info on the neighborhoods, food customs, the history of some of the dishes and stories about the owners and how they helped make Vallarta a culinary destination.

If the mouthwatering food, potent drinks, and alluring

Drone filming is an original way to record your wedding from an aerial perspective.

The service includes a crew of five to film and three cameras providing 10 hours of recording as well as aerial images.

Share your wedding of a lifetime with friends and family who can’t attend by live streaming your wedding.

Have your initials sculpted in the sand as a personalized feature of your wedding.

Wedding paintings are painted LIVE during the wedding festivities and each couple can select the style of their choice such as modern, classic, very detailed or portrait. This is a keepsake the couple will cherish forever.

scenery don’t seduce you at Casa Velas, the outstanding service will. Everyone who works at Casa Velas makes you feel like you’re the most important person in the world. Regardless of where you go on the property you are greeted with a warm smile and usually by name. They are helpful but never intrusive.

Though Casa Velas is a serene and sophisticated adults only, boutique hotel, there are other options for those who want to include their family or have a livelier atmosphere. Their sister properties in Puerto Vallarta are Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

and Velas Vallarta. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is in Banderas Bay in Nuevo Vallarta. It is also all-inclusive and has ocean view suites, an aqua bar and guests can take scuba lessons on the property. Grand Velas was awarded CondeNasts’ “Most Excellent Spa Hotel” award.

Velas Vallarta, another Puerto

WEDDINGS

BY VELAS RESORTS From Mexico: +52-322-176-0060 Rest of the world: +52-322-176-0060 Wedding Specialist weddings @velasresorts.com

Vallarta sister hotel, offers luxury suites with balconies overlooking the sparkling water of Banderas Bay and the close by mountains and city of Puerto Vallarta. This hotel has a convention center and also offers entertainment, family activities and beachfront sports like surfing, skiing, kayaking and diving. In addition, it has a holistic spa, fitness center, and several infinity swimming pools.

Velas Resorts has many wedding services to make your special day memorable and unique. Velas weddings offer comprehensive services to ensure that you

are stress free and that your wedding day surpasses the dreams of your imagination.

Velas Resorts will take care of every detail including the ceremony, the music, the flowers, the decorations, the cuisine, and the photography.

You can’t go wrong choosing Casa Velas or any of the sister resorts for your once in a lifetime wedding. You’ll experience heaven on earth while you’re there and as you are heading home from the airport, you’ll already be planning your next visit to Casa Velas.

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Pelican Reef Villas Resort

Photography by Lori Drake, renerhysphotography.com

Nestled between two private homes on the island of Ambergris Caye in Belize, Pelican Reef Villas Resort offers an immediate sense of intimacy and comfort. Simple, small details the resort provides include a personal driver delivering guests to the resort; greeted with a cold eucalyptus towel and specialty welcome cocktail; handpicked fresh flowers in each guest suite; the attentive resort staff that greets everyone by name; the upscale amenities and countless activities. The island property is only a two-hour flight from Texas.

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Honeymooners who discover Pelican Reef Villas Resort quickly learn why it is ranked

by TripAdvisor as one of the island’s best resorts. The property, though tucked away two miles outside of the town of San Pedro, has maintained its impeccable reputation for more than seven years due to its consistent attention to detail, its unparalleled and tailored customer service and its luxurious grounds. The resort lies on the south side of the island, which affords quiet and privacy; a small and intimate setting with only 24 guest suites. This allows the resort to

give every couple the Pelican Reef Villas Resort experience; making honeymoons especially unforgettable.

Only steps away from the Caribbean Sea, honeymooners can be found sunbathing in the hammocks at the corner of the beach or on padded loungers on the sundecks by the end of the pier. Some couples choose to float together in the resort’s beautiful infinity pool, enjoying its waterfall and wet-bar access. The resort also offers a snorkeling reef at the end of its pier. For ultimate relaxation, newlyweds often order a private couples massage followed by a beachside meal. Guests also have the option of having these services delivered to their suites for a more private setting.

For honeymooners with more of an adventurous side, the resort also arranges several tour options and adventure packages.

Romantic tour options include sunset or moonlit sails, dinner

cruises, and private fishing and snorkeling day tours. Couples often leave raving about their once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling experience with Captain Oliver and his crew. Tour goers often have the opportunity to swim with the manatees at a “secret” spot while the crew spearheads fresh lobster or other fish for a picnic on a private island.

For couples looking to explore beyond the Caribbean Sea, the resort staff can arrange a variety of adventure tours ranging from exploration hikes, jungle cave tubing excursions, zip line and waterfall rappelling, historical Mayan ruin adventures or horseback riding.

Pelican Reef Villas Resort goes beyond providing honeymooners a pleasant stay at its beachside luxury property. The staff ensures a personalized and memorable experience for the couple’s first trip after the wedding. Visit www.pelicanreefvillasresort.com for more information.

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It’s classy Photography by

Laurette Veres

at glassy A recent trip to South Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains took us to an elevation of 3200 feet. Here we found The Glassy Chapel and Pavilion. With views of seven mountain ranges and three states, this one-of-a-kind wedding location is consistently recognized as one of the best wedding venues in America. www.GlassyChapel.org

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The answer is YES, now what is the question? You have to love a vacation resort that uses that as their customer service motto. These accommodating sister resorts are located in sunny Ponte Vedra, Florida, just 35 minutes from historic St. Augustine on the Atlantic Ocean. Ponte Vedra is known for having over 300 days of sunshine each year though they are fortunate to have a semi-tropical climate making temperatures comfortable in both the summer and winter.

The properties, The Lodge & Club at Ponte Vedra Beach and the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club are dedicated to making your vacation or wedding dreams come true with a dedicated level of uncompromised attention to their guests.

The elegant, oceanfront Lodge & Club at Ponte Vedra Beach has the feel of old world Mediterranean sophistication set in the midst of established neighborhoods of exclusive estates and cozy cottages. The

Perfect Perfec in Ponte Vedra

by Vicki

newer of the two, this property has been entertaining guests since 1989. The architecture includes clay-tiled roofs, large arched windows, emerald green awnings on the buildings and several European inspired fountains. The 66 rooms and suites are expansive and beautifully decorated with rich fabrics in light and bright color schemes, fire places, large Jacuzzi tubs, and oceanfront views of the white sand beaches, palm trees and rolling dunes.

The list of amenities at the Lodge & Club at Ponte Vedra Beach is unparalleled. Just outside your door is a beautiful

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Dill

pool and Jacuzzi with areas to lounge, several fountains and not to be forgotten, miles of Atlantic surf where children come to collect shells and the occasional shark tooth on the beach. There is a beautiful outdoor fireplace, that is lit nightly and perfect for parties, wedding receptions and late night conversations. Taking in the views and the sunsets is peaceful and romantic at their beachfront outdoor patio, the Oasis, for casual dining. One of the most picturesque rooms at the Lodge is the oceanfront circular restaurant, The Innlet Dining Room, where watching the waves roll in or stargazing isn’t out of the question.

Afternoon tea is served daily which is the ideal pre-cursor for a nap in a chair by the ocean.

The Ponte Vedra Spa deserves its own article entirely. As you

courtesy photos

tion ction bubbler grotto with circular jets, a chaise lounge bubbler grotto which massages with bubbles from head to toe, a Jacuzzi grotto, a swimmer’s treadmill so guests can swim against the current for a good workout and a waterfall with falling water that massages the neck and shoulders.

enter the spa there is one of the most impressive spa restaurants and lounging areas one will ever experience. It includes a seahorse fountain, bamboo gardens, high ceilings, swooping linens draped from the ceiling, natural sunlight, comfortable

deep chairs, candles and most important a menu with so many delicious offerings you’ll be planning your next meal during your first. In addition to the unforgettable restaurant/lounge guests have their choice of one hundred pampering services

at the Ponte Vedra Spa which is recognized as one of north Florida’s most sophisticated luxury spas. Connected to the spa is the soothing and therapeutic pool with six grottos that each satisfies the senses. It includes a hydrotherapy pool, a

There’s no chance of going hungry or thirsty at any of the Ponte Vedra properties. Their menus are constantly changing and are always unique with some of the best chefs creating one-of-a-kind meals. A fun twist on activities for adults is held at the Tavern bar as the bartenders host mixology classes to teach guests how to make their signature cocktails.

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Though The Lodge & CLub induCes a LeveL of reLaxaTion The LisT of poTenTiaL aCTiviTies is LengThy and There’s someThing for everyone: If you have golf diehards in your party there are two championship golf courses near the ocean just a little over a mile away from the lodge. In addition to the picturesque courses they offer instruction, a driving range, three putting greens, a chipping green, lockers, Pro Shop, and a practice bunker.

ConneCted to the spa is the soothing and therapeutiC pool with six grottos that eaCh satisfies the senses

The Ponte Vedra Racquet Club is ranked as one of the best tennis centers in the U.S. by Tennis Magazine. It features 15 courts and eight of them are also available for night games.

There is an impressive 12,500 square foot oceanview fitness center that’s usually buzzing with energy and activity. The list of classes offered ranges from cycling to yoga to barre and even Dogayoga with your dog. More than 50 classes a week are offered in addition to available Personal Trainers.

The beach rentals offered include bicycles, baby joggers, surfboards, paddleboards, kayaks and much more.

There are half day and full day deep-sea fishing trips available to be arranged.

Romantic horseback rides on the beach can be scheduled.

During most weekend evenings live music can be enjoyed at the Lodge.

Swimming pools, Jacuzzis, sailing, and boating are available.

Children’s activities include arts and crafts a playground, games, family pool area with a huge slide for kids as well as lap lanes.

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The entire vibe of the Ponte Vedra properties is classy, serene and exudes a flare for the old world European. Both the Lodge & Club, as well as the Inn & Club, provide experts who specialize in planning and hosting weddings, conventions and parties of all sizes. The choices for your ceremony or event are vast and anything you dream up they can make happen.

Most of the areas offered include a back-up location in the case of inclement weather.

Just a few of the choices offered are an oceanfront courtyard, the spa lawn with white folding chairs, the beach with the beauty

of the ocean as your background, the Inn Dining Room with its expansive round shape and windows, the Florida Room and an off-site outdoor location known as the Outpost. An event that your guests are sure to enjoy, which is perfect for a rehearsal dinner, an engagement party or even a business social event, is having a “Shoot for the Pin” activity in conjunction with an outdoor bar. It is a tee-off party from the first hole tee box and guests will hit the ball toward the resort’s famous island 9th hole on the Ocean Course. The view of the water, the sunsets, the camaraderie

of friendly competition, bird watching and the possibility of seeing a lonely crocodile making its way back home at the end of the day makes this a memorable event for your guests.

When hosting a wedding or large group event it’s especially fun for the guests if they can be in close proximity to one another. The Inn and Club at Ponte Vedra Beach, the sister property to the Lodge was built in 1928 and is known as the “Grand Dame” of north Florida resorts. It offers a secret area, with a variety of 21 secluded accommodations, in

the middle of the hotel that is only accessible to the designated wedding party guests. The 21 rooms range in size and within the special, private area there are meeting rooms as well as reception areas.

The Lodge & CLub (800) 243-4304 www.pvresorts.com reservations@pvresorts.com The Inn & CLub (800) 234-7842 www.pvresorts.com reservations@pvresorts.com

In addition to gorgeous backgrounds for your party or wedding, the menu choices go on and on and on! There are light menus and full-course meals offered to meet the needs of your event.

The beauty of the north Florida beaches and weather is undeniable, add in the old world charm of the Ponte Vedra Resorts and top it off with the hotel motto, “The answer is YES, now what is the question?” and you’ve found the perfect locale for your wedding or honeymoon!

www.pontevedra.com/florida_weddings

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T

The Bass Pro Shop folks have big things going on in their home state, Missouri. Their flagship store in Springfield just completed a 200,000+ square foot Wonders of Wildlife museum.

honeym for golfers

Temperatures and terrains change as visitors progress through incredible, larger than life displays including African safaris, mountain settings, the Artic and more. Each feature depicts life in the wild with predators on the hunt. The final leg of the museum is giant aquariums.

The PGA now hosts a Champions Tour event at Top of the Rock.

Morris is also building a 12-hole family friendly course nearby. Gary Player is designing the course to be less intimidating so it is

Bass Pro Shop founder John Morris is reengineering golf. He feels less people are playing the game because it takes too much time to complete a round. He teamed up with Jack Nicklaus to create Top of the Rock, a worldclass, nine-hole par 3 course.

The challenging track has deep bunkers, perfect greens and incredible views.

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ymoon Morris tinkers with nature to enhance the beauty of the Ozark Mountains. You’ll find unbelievable waterfalls, nature trails and cave tours attached to the courses. enjoyable for all skill levels.

Upon it’s completion in 2016, Morris will have three courses around his Big Cedar Lodge; Top of the Rock, Buffalo Ridge Championship Course and the 12-hole course.

The Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum attached to Top of the Rock is a chronological collection of artifacts from the days of the woolly mammoth and prehistoric cave bears through the Civil War. -TF

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F

Fashion shows are the number one reason brides attend bridal shows. At the Houston Bridal Extravaganza Show in January, thousands of brides were not disappointed.

With over nine shows on the main stage and a Couture fashion show on Sunday, thousands of gowns heated up the runway.

Book it

now - 278 -

America’s

Largest

Bridal Show

Texas Brides

were dazzled

by Laurette M. Veres photography by Anthony Rathbun

Brides, bridesmaids, mothers-of-the bride, grooms, and wedding planners have their pick of over 350 vendors in 700 display showcases who cater exclusively to the everfashionable, stylish, and romantic wedding industry.

The New York style runway was packed on Saturday and Sunday as attendees viewed fashion shows from Damsel White Label, Impression Bridal, David’s Bridal, Alfred Angelo and The Princess Bridal. On Sunday morning, brides were entertained by Desiree Hartsock, star of “The Bachelorette.” Currently she is a wedding blogger and gown designer.

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A new addition to this two-day event was widely received: Beyond the Basics Wedding Seminar.

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VIP brides enjoyed an exclusive event starting with champagne service from an aerial bartender! The Couture fashion show, produced

by Todd Ramos, featured gowns from The Princess Bridal, Nima Boutique, Impression Bridal, Ventura’s Bridal Fashions and Winnie Couture.

The fashion show was accompanied by live music from The Royal Dukes.

A new addition to this two-day event was widely received: Beyond the Basics

Wedding Seminar. Speakers included Krystal Peay: EB, Inc Event Rentals and Design, Clara Hough: House of Hough, Anthony Dinh: Composure Studios, Mike Turner: MD Turner Photography, Deb Turner: MD Turner Photography, Krista Borchard: Event Identity, LLC, Jessie Lopez: Edible Designs by Jessie, Chris Nguyen: CafĂŠ Natalie Catering, Ashley DeFrees: My Urban Invites, Lewis Grell: LG Entertainment, and Rebekah Cunningham: Dream Bouquet.

The next Bridal Extravaganza Show is January 7-8, 2017. Brides receive exclusive gifts only available at the Extravaganza Show. For ticket information, log on to

www.BridalExtravaganzaShow.com

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The Ultimate Wedding Box

Wedding Necessities

h

Planning Tools

h

Bridal Gifts

h

Beauty Products

h

Vendor Samples and Offers - 284 -

Your Dream Day in a Box A monthly subscription box service providing the ultimate wedding-planning essentials and more!

Continue the Bridal Extravaganza experience every month at your doorstep!

Order Your Box Today!

TheUltimateWeddingBox.com

Bridal Resource Guide

t h e w eddi ng v en d ors e v ery t e xas br i de sho ul d k no w Accessories  Aesthetics/Health & Fitness/Medical Day Spa  Bachelor/Bachelorette Events  Bridal Salons  Bridal Shower Services  Bridesmaid Gowns Cake Toppers/Boxes  Cakes  Caterers  Chapels and Gazebos  Childcare Services  Chocolate Fountains, Gifts, & Favors  Consultants/Event Planners Dance Lessons  Decorators/Decorations  Destination Honeymoons/Tourism  Destination Weddings  Disc Jockeys  Fashion  Financial Planning  Fireworks Florists  Gift Registry  Gifts  Gown Alterations  Groomsman Gifts/Accessories  Guest Books  Headpieces and Veils  Health & Fitness Home Furnishings/Serrvices  Honeymoon Travel Agencies  Hotel and Reception Sites  Housewares  Invitations and Custom Paper  Jewelry  Lighting Linens/Tables  Make-up Artists/Hair Stylists  Men’s Formal Wear  Musical Groups/Vocalists Photo Booths  Photographers  Real Estate Rehearsal Dinner Facilities  Rental Equipment  Skin Care/Nail Care/Cosmetics  Slow Motion Video Special Effects  Total Wedding Services Transportation  Vacation Resorts  Videographers  Wedding and Portrait Photographers  Wedding and Reception Sites  Weight Loss COMPANYWEB SITE

WEBSITE

PAGE #

Accessories B.Y.O.B. Bling Your Own Bouquet Bache Boutique Crystal Bay Designs Lauren Lash Designs Pretty You London

200 208 52 230

deerlakelodge.com waxingthecity.com/bellaire

261

lovewinx.com revolvepole.com

260

Bachelor/Bachelorette Events Lovewinx Revolve Pole Studio

Bridal Salons Alfred Angelo Bridal Bella Bridesmaids Damsel White Label David’s Bridal Inc. Fiancée Bridal Boutique Impression Bridal Impression Bridal Outlet Panache Bridal & Formal Renting White Dresses The Bridal Depot The Princess Bridal Ventura’s Bridal Fashions Winnie Couture Flagship Salon

alfredangelo.com bellabridesmaids.com damselwhitelabel.com davidsbridal.com fianceebridalboutique.com impressionbridalstore.com impressionbridalstore.com panachebridalusa.com rentingwhitedresses.com texasbridaldepot.com theprincessbridal.com venturasbridalfashions.com winniecouture.com

94 206

119 122 151 193

myurbaninvites.com silversycamore.com

58 64

alfredangelo.com damselwhitelabel.com davidsbridal.com henkaa.com impressionbridalstore.com impressionbridalstore.com texasbridaldepot.com venturasbridalfashions.com

94

Bridesmaid Gowns Alfred Angelo Bridal Damsel White Label David’s Bridal Inc. Henkaa Inc. Impression Bridal Impression Bridal Outlet The Bridal Depot Ventura’s Bridal Fashions

122 151 39 4

Cake Toppers/Boxes Arne’s Texas Size Party Store Who Made the Cake!

PAGE #

arneswarehouse.com whomadethecake.com

Cakes By Gina Edible Designs By Jessie Supreme Kakes and More Tammy Allen Wedding Cakes Who Made the Cake!

cakesbyginahouston.com edibledesignsbyjessie.com 98 supremekakes.com weddingcakesbytammyallen.com 148 whomadethecake.com 17

Caterers Black-eyed Pea Catering Cafe Natalie Molinas Catering Ral’s Fine Catering Safari Texas The Hometown Chef Catering Co.

theblackeyedpea.com/catering cafenatalie.com molinascantina.com ralsfinecatering.com safaritexasballroom.com thehometownchef.com

161 271 196 116 133

Chapels and Gazebos Ashelynn Manor Butler’s Courtyard Centurion Palace Wedding Venue Enchanted Cypress Ballroom San Souci Ballroom Silver Sycamore The Brookwood Community

ashelynnmanor.com 23 butlerscourtyard.com 31 centurionpalace.com 61 enchantedcypressballroom.com 164 SansSouciHouston.com 160 silversycamore.com 64 brookwoodcommunity.org 48

Childcare Services Wonderland Event Childcare

wonderlandkidcare.com

Chocolate Fountains, Gifts, & Favors 39 25 4 45

Bridal Shower Services My Urban Invites Silver Sycamore

WEBSITE

Cakes byobwrap.com bacheboutique.com crystalbaydesigns.com laurenlashdesigns.com prettyyoulondon.com

Aesthetics/Health & Fitness/Medical Day Spa Deer Lake Lodge Waxing The City

COMPANYWEB SITE

35 17

Arne’s Texas Size Party Store Chocolate Fountain Express DGZ

arneswarehouse.com chocolatefountainexpress.com weddingsbydgz.com

35

3lentertainment.net asplendidevent.net aeweddingsandevents.com event-identity.com ferventdesigns.com glitterandwhiskey.com inventiveeventshouston.com rompevents.com schwartzwoodward.com simplydivineeventscatering.co

191 13 131 60 201

fredastairetexas.com

124

ajsurbanpetals.com arneswarehouse.com balushka.com

51 35 42

87

Consultants/Event Planners 3LE Event Planning by Rina A Splendid Event A&E Weddings & Events Event Identity Fervent Designs Glitter & Whiskey Events Inventive Events, LLC Romp Events Schwartz & Woodward Simply Divine Events

217 250

Dance Lessons Fred Astaire Dance Studio

Decorators/Decorations AJ’s Urban Petals Arne’s Texas Size Party Store Balushka Paper Floral Artistry

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COMPANYWEB SITE

WEBSITE

Big Ass Balloons Crystal ShowCase EB Inc. Events Rental/Design House of Hough Jade Dang Beauty/Events Johanna Terry Events The Bloom Room, LLC The Perfect Touch Linens The Secret Floral Garden Trendy Touches

bigassballoons.com thecrystalshowcase.com ebincevents.com houseofhough.com jadedang.com johannaterryevents.com thebloomroomllc.com theperfecttouchlinens.com thesecretfloralgarden.com trendytouches.com

PAGE #

109 46 150 241 144 111 102 205 178

Destination Honeymoons/Tourism Casa Patricia Honeymoon Villa Texas Hill Country River Region

moffittoaks.com visituvaldecounty.com

234

chriswphoto.com connieeventsandtravel.com navigateyourtravels.com event-identity.com lotusranch.org mymaderaestates.com oldedobbinstation.com paradiseweddingsandtravel.com scottkelleyphoto.com terrystravelco.com tlife.com

62 197 203 60 63 123 132 95 66

Al’s Formal Wear alsformalwear.com Daulong’s Mobile Music Inc. dmmdjs.com DJ Dave Productions djdaveproductions.com DJ Shorty Productions djshortyproductions.com DJU Productions djuproductions.com JM Productions Professional DJ Service jmprodj.com LG Entertainment lgentertainers.com Look No Further Entertainment looknofurtherentertainment.com Madam DJ madamdj.com Modern Mobile Entertainment prodjs.co

101 176 29 185 214 153 242 233 140

21

Disc Jockeys

Fashion Qutees

qutees.com

258

Engagement/Wedding Announcements Houston Chronicle Announcements

chron.com/celebrations

Financial Planning State Farm

statefarm.com

283

Fireworks Sky Wonder Pyrotechnics, LLC

skywonderpyro.com

93

Florists A Splendid Event Agave Estates AJ’s Urban Petals Balushka Paper Floral Artistry Blythe & Co. Dream Bouquet F. Dellit Designs Gallery FLowers

- 286 -

asplendidevent.net agaveestates.com ajsurbanpetals.com balushka.com blytheandco.net dreambouquet.net fdellit.com gallery-flowers.com

WEBSITE

PAGE #

H-E-B BLOOMS tm Johanna Terry Events Spring Trails Florist The Bloom Room, LLC Weddings by Design by H-E-B

heb.com/blooms johannaterryevents.com springtrailsflorist.net thebloomroomllc.com heb.com/weddings

41 144 220 111 103

bedbathandbeyond.com celebritychina.com dillards.com macys.com/registry

188 53 16, 44

arneswarehouse.com idoengravables.com laurenlashdesigns.com thingsremembered.com vivianjade.com

35 134 52 199 72

Gift Registry Bed Bath & Beyond Celebrity China & Cookware Dillards Macy’s Wedding & Gift Registry

Gifts

Destination Weddings ChrisWPhoto.com Connie Events and Travel Cruise Planners Event Identity Lotus Ranch, Wimberley, TX Madera Estates Weddings & Events Olde Dobbin Station Paradise Weddings and Travel Scott Kelley Photography Terry’s Travel Travel Lifestyles

COMPANYWEB SITE

13 99 51 42 97 128 207

Arne’s Texas Size Party Store I Do Engravables Lauren Lash Designs Things Remembered Vivian Jade

Gown Alterations Laura’s Couture & Alterations LLC

lauracouturenalterations.com

Groomsman Gifts/Accessories Arne’s Texas Size Party Store Men’s Wearhouse

arneswarehouse.com menswearhouse.com

35 110

arneswarehouse.com coosadesigns.com idoengravables.com

35 104 134

arneswarehouse.com

35

Guest Books Arne’s Texas Size Party Store Coosa Designs I Do Engravables

Headpieces and Veils Arne’s Texas Size Party Store

Health & Fitness AdvoCare International Bio Therapy INC Discover Wellness Weight Loss It Works Global

liveforspark.com medicpadusa.com discoverwieghtloss.com jessicaLcockrell.itworks.com

235

Home Furnishings/Services Green Mountain Energy Sweet Dreams Luxury Sheets

greenmountainenergy.com sweetdreamsluxurysheets.com

263 228

Honeymoon Travel Agencies Ace Travel House acetravel.com Around About Travel aroundabouttravel.com Connie Events and Travel connieeventsandtravel.com Cruise Planners navigateyourtravels.com Northcutt Travel Agency/Nostaycation.com nostaycation.com Paradise Weddings and Travel paradiseweddingsandtravel.com Terry’s Travel terrystravelco.com Travel Lifestyles tlife.com

59 210 197 203 115 95 21

Hotel and Reception Sites Courtyard by Marriott Katy Mills marriott.com/houky Hilton Garden Inn NW/Willowbrook hiltonhouston.com

Housewares

Arne’s Texas Size Party Store Celebrity China & Cookware Dillards Macy’s Wedding & Gift Registry

arneswarehouse.com celebritychina.com dillards.com macys.com/registry

246 166 35 188 53 16, 44

COMPANYWEB SITE

Invitations and Custom Paper Agave Estates Al’s Formal Wear BGregory Design DGZ Elias Paper Co. JWD Paperie My Urban Invites Paper Tie Affair Qutees Vivian Jade

WEBSITE

PAGE #

agaveestates.com alsformalwear.com bgregorydesign.com weddingsbydgz.com eliaspaperco.com jwdpaperie.com myurbaninvites.com papertieaffair.com qutees.com vivianjade.com

99 101 209 87 167 113 58 222 258 72

dubinsfinejewelry.com lisafreede.com onlyyoursjewelry.com myjewelrycleaner.com uniquejewelshouston.com

105 247

Jewelry Dubins Fine Jewelry Lisa Freede Only Yours Jewelry Something New Unique Jewels

257 121

Lighting DJ Dave Productions Look No Further Entertainment

djdaveproductions.com 29 looknofurtherentertainment.com 233

Linens/Tables Affordable Linens & Decor Crystal ShowCase EB Inc. Events Rental/Design House of Hough LBL Event Rentals The Perfect Touch Linens

affordablelinensdecor.com thecrystalshowcase.com ebincevents.com houseofhough.com lbleventrentals.com theperfecttouchlinens.com

109 46 150 85 102

exquisitereflections.info hildakershman.com jadedang.com marlenegbeauty.com simplebeautyartistry.com

96 33 241 248 15

alsformalwear.com balanicustom.com menswearhouse.com palaisroyal.com

101 221 110 112

cashmerewilliams.com royaldukesband.com

216

Make-up Artists and Hair Stylists Exquisite Reflections Hilda Kershman Makeup Studio Jade Dang Beauty/Events Marlene G. Beauty Simple Beauty Artistry

Men’s Formal Wear Al’s Formal Wear BALANI Custom Clothiers Men’s Wearhouse Palais Royal

Musical Groups/Vocalists Cashmere Williams Royal Dukes Band

Other Products/Services Storm Tight Windows

texas.stormtightwindows.com

Photo Booths DJ Dave Productions DJU Productions iHeart Flipbooks Luxe Films Make a Face Photo Booths Monkey Booth OWL Shots PB&DJ productions Photo Booths By Image Cinema

djdaveproductions.com djuproductions.com iheartflipbooks.com luxefilmshouston.com makeafacebooths.com monkeyboothpics.com owlshots.com pbdjs.com imagecinema.com

29 214 171 50

COMPANYWEB SITE

WEBSITE

PAGE #

Picture Me Houston Photo Booth Pixel Studio Productions ShutterBooth Trendy Touches

picturemehoustonphotobooth.com pixelstudioproductions.com shutterbooth.com trendytouches.com

189 90 127 178

Photographers Adam Copeland Photography Al’s Formal Wear AlexanderCross.com Photo ANA&IVAN photography Biyani Photography LLC Capture a Stanza Photography Celebrate Your Sexy ChrisWPhoto.com Composure Studios DC Stanley Photography Delight Studio Eden Grey Photography EVOKE Photography & Video Inc. Fernando Weberich Photography George Street Photo & Video j.vince photography MD Turner Photography Natural Expressions Pixel Studio Productions Sally Vee Photography Scott Kelley Photography Shot Photo and Video Thomas & Penelope

adamcopelandphotography.com 184 alsformalwear.com 101 alexandercross.com 168 anaivanphoto.com 12 biyaniphoto.com 223 captureastanzaphotography.com 192 celebrateyoursexy.com chriswphoto.com 62 composurestudios.com 182 dcstanleyphotography.com 92 delightstudio.com 177 edengreyphotography.com 43 evokephotoandvideo.com 47 fernandoweberich.com Cover 4 georgestreetphoto.com jvince.com 156 mdturnerphotography.com 108 naturalexpressionshouston.com 117 pixelstudioproductions.com 90 sallyveephotography.com 232 scottkelleyphoto.com 66 shotphotoandvideo.com 165 thomasandpenelope.com 56

Real Estate RE/MAX Central Turbo Realty Watkins Realty Group LLC

StacyMcAdamsRealtor.com turborealty.com har.com/Cole-Watkins/ agent_CWatkins

259

262

Rehearsal Dinner Facilities Haak Vineyards & Winery Majestic Ventures Raveneaux Country Club The Crystal Ballroom The Woodlands Country Club

haakwine.com majesticventures.com2 raveneaux.com crystalballhouston.com thewoodlandscc.com

118 7 86 73

avaloneventrentals.com lgentertainers.com partyinatentwesthouston.com shutterbooth.com

179 242 251 127

arialwand.com marykay.com/cheleatha.lott jessicaLcockrell.itworks.com

229

Rental/Equipment Avalon Event Rentals LG Entertainment Party in a Tent West Houston ShutterBooth

Skin Care/Nail Care/Cosmetics Arialwand Mary Kay Cosmetics It Works Global

Slow Motion Video 282 106

SLO Slow Motion Video

luxefilmshouston.com/photo-booth/slo/

Special Effects DJ Dave Productions DJU Productions

djdaveproductions.com djuproductions.com

29 214

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COMPANYWEB SITE

WEBSITE

PAGE #

Total Wedding Services A&E Weddings & Events Agave Estates Fervent Designs House Plantation Palms Event Center Ral’s Fine Catering Shirley Acres The Villagio Waters Edge

aeweddingsandevents.com agaveestates.com ferventdesigns.com houseplantation.com 37 palmseventcenter.com114 ralsfinecatering.com shirleyacres.com villagiohouston.com watersedge.events

131 99 201

196 65 125

Transportationt Carbon Auto Group Horse Drawn Carriages & Hearse Jordan Limousines The Original Trolley Co.

carbonautogroup.com 211 horsedrawncarriagesandhearseoftexas.com 224 jordanlimos.com 169 originaltrolley.com 173

Vacation Resorts Dream Vacations Silverleaf Resorts, Inc.

sjdtravelwithus.com silverleafresorts.com

Videographers Al’s Formal Wear DC Stanley Photography DontGetMarriedWithoutMe.com EVOKE Photography & Video Inc. Fernando Weberich Photography iHeart Flipbooks Lozano Studio Luxe Films MD Turner Photography PB&DJ productions Pixel Studio Productions

alsformalwear.com 101 dcstanleyphotography.com 92 dontgetmarriedwithoutme.com 170 evokephotoandvideo.com 47 fernandoweberich.com Cover 4 iheartflipbooks.com 171 lozanostudio.com luxefilmshouston.com50 mdturnerphotography.com 108 pbdjs.com pixelstudioproductions.com 90

Wedding and Portrait Photographers Adams Photography ANA&IVAN photography Composure Studios Eden Grey Photography Natural Expressions Thomas & Penelope

houston-photography.com 88 anaivanphoto.com 12 composurestudios.com 182 edengreyphotography.com 43 naturalexpressionshouston.com 117 thomasandpenelope.com 56

Wedding and Reception Sites Agave Estates Alegria Gardens Ashelynn Manor Balmorhea Boardwalk FantaSea Yacht Charters BROWNSTONE RESERVE Butler’s Courtyard Centurion Palace Wedding Venue Citadel on Kirby County Line Event Center Downtown Aquarium Dukessa Ella’s Garden Enchanted Cypress Ballroom Golfcrest Country Club

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agaveestates.com alegriagarden.com ashelynnmanor.com 2 balmorheaevents.com boardwalkfantasea.com brownstonereserve.com butlerscourtyard.com centurionpalace.com citadelonkirby.com countylineeventcenter.com downtownaquarium.com dukessahouston.com ellasgarden.com enchantedcypressballroom.com golfcrestcountryclub.com

99 3 57 249 31 61 157 49 152 190 164 120

COMPANYWEB SITE

WEBSITE

PAGE #

Haak Vineyards & Winery haakwine.com 118 Hobby Event Center hobbyeventcenter.com House Plantation houseplantation.com 37 La Fontaine Reception Hall lafontainereceptionhall.net La Tranquila Ranch latranquilaranch.com 231 Lindsay Lakes lindsaylakes.com 141 Lotus Ranch, Wimberley, TX lotusranch.org 63 Madera Estates Weddings & Events mymaderaestates.com 123 Majestic Ventures majesticventures.com 27 Moffitt Oaks moffittoaks.com 19 Oakwind Weddings oakwindweddings.com 215 Olde Dobbin Station oldedobbinstation.com 132 Palms Event Center palmseventcenter.com 114 Pecan Grove Plantation Country Club pecangrovecc.com 149 Pine Lake Ranch pinelakeranch.com Raveneaux Country Club raveneaux.com 86 Red Oak Ballroom redoakballroom.com 145 Safari Texas safaritexasballroom.com 116 San Souci Ballroom SansSouciHouston.com 160 Shirley Acres shirleyacres.com 65 Silver Sycamore silversycamore.com 64 Southern Lace Estates southernlaceestates.com 202 Sterling Country Club houstonnationalgolf.com 135 Sweetwater Country Club swcclub.com/catering/weddings 172 Texas Renaissance Festival texrenfest.com 130 The Admiral at Endeavour Marina, on Clear Laketheadmiralroom.com 91 The Barn At Four Pines Ranch thebarnatfourpinesranch.com 240 The Brookwood Community brookwoodcommunity.org 48 The Carriage House thecarriagehousehouston.com 89 The Crystal Ballroom crystalballhouston.com 73 The Farmhouse thefarmhouseevents.com 204 The Gardens at Madeley Manor thegardensatmadeleymanor.com The Gates on Main St. gatesonmain.comCover 2 The Grand Hall at Deer Lake Lodge deerlakelodge.com 107 The Grand Texana thegrandtexana.com 225 The Springs Events thespringsevents.com 54 The Sycamore Room at Battleground Golf Course battlegroundgolfcourse.com 126 The Villagio villagiohouston.com 125 Walden on Lake Houston waldencc.com 183 Waters Edge watersedge.events Willow Fork Country Club willowforkclub.com 129

Weight Loss Discover Wellness Weight Loss

discoverwieghtloss.com

235

Bridal Extravaganza January 7-8

George R Brown • Houston

Two fun-filled Days!

Major Prizes Formal Fashion Shows Educational Seminars Brides Register Online for Free Gift BridalExtravaganzaShow.com

photo: ANA&IVAN photography c gown: Ventura’s Bridal Fashions c hair and makeup: Simple Beauty Artistry