Bride & Groom Spring 2015 by Bride & Groom Magazine

Spring 2015

Magazine

nicolelopezphotography.com

Experience the Difference leslieboudreau.com

specialoccasionphotography.net

Beautifully manicured grounds perfect for wedding ceremonies. • Featuring three newly renovated function rooms that can accommodate 35 to 240 guests.  • Prime 2015 & 2016 dates available • Call for a private tour

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Contents

FEATURES 32 Selecting an Officiant Things to consider. 36 Boston’s North Shore Romantic seaside havens. 40 Flower Power Colorful, beautiful arrangements.

50 Fenway Park Weddings Four baseball-loving couples wed at iconic Fenway. 62 Taking a Seat Organizing your seating charts.

Spring 2015

44 His & Her Workouts Looking your best for your big day.

74 Local Island “I Do’s” Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard

or Block Island weddings.

80 Fetching Festivities Incorporating your pet in your wedding. 84 OAHU More hula, less moolah. 88 A Pop of Marsala 2015 Color of the year.

FEATURED VENUES 66 DoubleTree Westborough 70 Shaker Hills Country Club

IN EVERY ISSUE 12 Tying the Knot Recently engaged local couples.

20 B&G Q&A Shoes to Dye For Nearby Nuptials 24 Lindsey & Chris 28 Kristen & Drew 98 B&G Picks Product reviews for Spring 2015.

DIRECTORIES 100 Function Facility Guide 104 Wedding Resources Guide

Our Spring cover features Marc & Jen Fucarile who married at Fenway Park on April 17, 2014. Photo: Nicole Chan nicolechanphotography.com

www.bridegroommag.com

™

Host your wedding at one of the newest and finest facilities in Northern RI.

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Built on the shores of beautiful Crystal Lake, the club offers wonderful views of our golf course & lake.

Magazine Publishers Richard E. Chevalier Germaine A. Chevalier President Robert R. Chevalier robert@chevalierassociates.com

Account Executive Chrissy Carelli

chrissy@chevalierassociates.com

Senior Technical Services Developer Lyndsay Hommé lyndsay@chevalierassociates.com

Business Manager K.C. O’Brien

kc@chevalierassociates.com

Tracy Hill Wedding Coordinator 401.567.4500 (ext.14) 100 Broncos Highway Burrillville, Rhode Island www.crystallakegolfclub.com

A Place for Beautiful Beginnings...

Marketing & Research Olivia Vaillant

olivia@chevalierassociates.com

Art Director Rick Bridges

richardbridgesdesign.com

Contributing Writers Cindy Papish Gerber Debbi Kickham William Kickham Stacey Marcus Andrea McHugh Jennifer McNally Monac Diana Bierman Donna Michael Erica Quandt

BRIDE & GROOM™ Magazine is published in January, May and September and is a trademark of and published by:

8 Spring 2015

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robinsonweddingphotography.com

Tying the Knot Local couples get engaged!

Stacy Morrison & Alvin Arce Westborough, MA Wedding date: March 11, 2016

Emily Ostiguy & Michael Figueroa Worcester, MA Wedding date: July 11, 2015

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Congratulations on your engagement from robinsonweddingphotography.com

Jamie Litchfield & Greg David Somerville, MA Wedding date: June 13, 2015

Jodi Carroll, Pepperell, MA & Dan Amichetti, Townsend, MA Wedding date: August 27, 2015

DJ Buddy D. Sound Unlimited

401.765.1240 e: djbuddyd@djbuddyd.com djbuddyd.com

The Devens Common Center For All New Brides and Grooms, Say â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Doâ&#x20AC;? with Sophistication, Elegance & Style Receive a 10% discount on your wedding reception when you mention our ad in Bride and Groom Magazine. *Restrictions apply.

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Photography: habakkukmedia.com

Sophisticated Style 31 Andrews Parkway Devens, MA 01434 978-772-0188 www.devenscommoncenter.com For your out of town guests, choose from SpringHill Suites by Marriott Devens & Hilton Garden Inn Devens, MA

Tying the Knot

Congratulations on your engagement from

robinsonweddingphotography.com

Local couples get engaged!

robinsonweddingphotography.com

Shannon Sylvia 368 Central Street Leominster, MA 01453 978.840.4343 shancakes.com

Hanna Powsner & Elijah Young Northboro, MA Wedding date: June 1, 2016

Megan Markland & William Hassinger Grafton, MA Wedding date: November 2015 14 Spring 2015

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Ali Morrissey & Scott Shankle Auburn, MA Wedding date: October 24, 2015

robinsonweddingphotography.com

Jessica McGowan & David Smith Leicester, MA Wedding date: May 17, 2015

Christina Nava & Charlie Ciares Fitchburg, MA Wedding date: August 2017

Tying the Knot

Kelly Square Worcester, MA 508.757.1000 nkdworcester.com

robinsonweddingphotography.com

Local couples get engaged!

Congratulations on your engagement from

Alanna McCarthy & Brian Le Worcester, MA. Wedding Date: June 26, 2015 Shawna LaBelle & Ryan Biernacki Grosvenordale, CT Wedding date: September 20, 2015 16 Spring 2015

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Wedding date: October 2016

robinsonweddingphotography.com

Melba Morales & Cruz Rosado Clinton, MA Wedding date: April 2016

Katherine Vernon & Nicholas Dusablon East Greenwich, RI

T he

Sturbridge Host Hotel on Cedar Lake

Where Dreams are Filled and Memories Created

Lakeside or Ballroom Receptions ~ Two Outdoor Ceremony Locations Bridal Showers ~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Post Wedding Brunches ~ Overnight Guestrooms 366 Main Street • Sturbridge, MA 01566 • 508-347-7393 • email: info@sturbridgehosthotel.com

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robinsonweddingphotography.com

Tying the Knot Local couples get engaged!

Crystal Zereski & Nate Baron Dudley, MA Wedding date: June 2016

robinsonweddingphotography.com

Melissa Chevarie & Edwin Cominoli Templeton, MA Wedding date: June 13, 2015

Jessica Hebert & Jordan Roberts Hubbardston, MA Wedding date: Summer 2016 18 Spring 2015

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robinsonweddingphotography.com

Kelly Linehan & Justin Fournier Leominster, MA Wedding date: Fall 2015

Jodi Norton & Kristofer Boutin Providence, RI Wedding date: August 30, 2015

B&G

q&a

Shoes To Dye For Photography: leslieboudreau.com

by Jennifer McNally Monac

hoes To Dye For is a specialty boutique, where itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been

said, you can get everything but the dress for your wedding day! The shop offers the largest selection of bridal shoes & accessories in the Boston Metro region and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s owned and operated by a husband and wife pair. These two soles have had an interesting and lengthy history in the shoe industry, so we sat down with co-owner, Ron Davis, at his Natick location and asked him to unlace the story of his unique and stylish family business. 20 Spring 2015

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Owners Ron and Lisa Davis

q: I understand for you and your wife,

shoes run in your family, so to speak...can you explain?

a : Interestingly enough, both my wife’s

family and my parents have been in the shoe industry for over 40 years! Shoes To Dye For is our business that my wife and I have operated together for over 12 years, where brides and bridal parties find a vast selection of just about everything for their wedding. Shoes are huge for us, but they are just one of our specialties. We are so much more than that...including over 200 choices of veils, four cases of hair accessories and a tremendous depth of jewelry choices too.

q: What made you decide to specialize in dyable shoes?

a : Dyeing shoes was an important part

of the family business and I found that I had a great eye for custom mixing and matching colors. As family shoe stores across the nation got squeezed out of business by large box shoe stores, I saw a niche market open up for the dyeable shoe industry. We developed the nationally known web site www.Dyeableshoestore.com and the business just took off. We then purchased the Natick

location from my parents and opened Shoes To Dye For and More. Our concept store has become the largest dyeable shoe source and bridal accessory store in the North East; drawing clients from as far as Canada, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York and beyond.

q: Tell us about your selection.

Do you sell children’s shoes and what’s the largest size of adult shoe you sell?

We pride ourselves on being able to fit almost anyone with gorgeous shoes! We stock the largest collection of children’s flower girl and First Communion shoes in the state; carrying stock from a toddler’s size 7, to a children’s size 4. We also stock woman’s shoes from size 4 to 13 and carry narrows, mediums, wides and double wides too. One of our most unique offerings, is our full line of Angela Nuran shoes. More than beautiful, they continued on page 22 www.bridegroommag.com

q: Fine

art can be expensive...What’s the price range of shoes available in your store?

At Shoes To Dye For, we have something to fit everyone’s style, and we also have affordable choices to fit everyone’s budget too. Our shoes range from $29.90 up to $1400.00, with an average shoe costing between $50.00-$70.00.

q: You

wouldn’t normally think about buying wedding jewelry and veils from a shoe store, but your wide variety of everything makes it such a tempting and fun place to shop. What percentage of your business is for things other than shoes?

a : With over thirty years of fashion ap-

parel and footwear buying experience, I have developed a great eye for finding beautiful merchandise at reasonable prices and I hate when places have a limited choice for people to choose from. Over 65% of our clients who purchase shoes from us, also purchase either a handbag, jewelry, veil, sachet, or other related bridal accessories from the store. Our customers appreciate the large selection and we appreciate our customers! In fact, anyone who comes into the store and mentions reading this Q&A can receive a free gift with their purchase.

are an amazing line of professional quality dance shoes that combine style and comfort, which is perfect for brides on their feet all day. Seldom do our clients not find the shoes they are looking for in our store.

q: Can shoes and handbags that have been previously dyed, be re-dyed for another occasion?

a : Yes, you can dye items multiple

times, as long as the colors get progressively darker. Most bridesmaids choose to have their shoes dyed black after the wedding, to get more use out of the shoes.

q: What’s the most popular shoe color you sell?

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One of the most frequently requested shoe colors we get, is what I like to call the Sex In The City something blue shoe... ever since Carrie Bradshaw stepped out in the first Sex In The City movie wearing her vibrant, blue Manolo Blahniks, it’s been a top selling color for us. In fact, we now carry a royal blue bridal shoe, designed by Badgley Mischka and they have quickly become a top selling favorite. Blue wedding shoes may be one of the most popular trends today, but with over 500 color choices in the store, in addition to custom colors, including, camouflage and tye-dyed shoes, we have something for everyone. We even do custom bling! Our shoes are like artwork.

Whether shopping in person, or online, Shoes To Dye For is the award-winning place for style, comfort, and great selection. It is New England’s most complete in-stock bridal, wedding, evening shoe and accessories shop and it’s a fabulous place to get decked out for your wedding day! Jennifer McNally Monac is a freelance writer and real estate agent, who lives and works on Cape Cod.

Shoes To Dye For 1400 Worcester Street Natick, MA 01760 508-653-6063 shoestodyefor.com

Beyond All Expectations

Happy Gathering Photography

42 West Boylston Street West Boylston, MA 01583 Ourmanor.com Andrea@ourmanor.com

Nuptials

nearby

Lindsey and Chris June 14, 2014 Whispering Pines

Their Story Lindsey and her husband Chris Whitten first met at the ever so popular Dance Ranch in Worcester, Ma. Lindsey was once a dancer there and returned a few years later to find that Chris was the new DJ. She requested a song and immediately had her eyes set on Chris. She walked straight up to her mom right after and said, “I know nothing about that man, but I’m going to marry him someday”. From then on, they were inseparable. The couple got engaged in one of the most magical times and places of the year, New York City in December. They were there with Chris’s three boys, parents, his sister Amy,

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and her boyfriend Andrew. They found themselves in front of the big red ornaments near the tree, when Chris said he wanted to take their Christmas card picture. Andrew pretended the camera wasn’t working and had Lindsey help ‘fix it’”. She turned around to find the boys holding signs that said “Will you marry our daddy”, Lindsey then turned to Chris, and he was down on one knee. What a magical day.

Planning Lindsey and Chris took around 18 months to plan the wedding. Lindsey and Chris jumped into the planning right away and fell in love with the process. Between Pinterest and Etsy, there were so many ideas for Lindsey to choose from, and Chris brought all those ideas to life. The two truly enjoyed planning the wedding together. It made the process fun and not one bit stressful. Chris had been djing weddings for over ten years prior to their wedding, so he had “seen it all” too. Chris had a suggestion for their ceremony and reception and once Lindsey saw Whispering Pines, she knew it was ‘the place’. It’s 2300 acres in the middle of the woods, with cabins for guests to stay in, a bon fire for the after party. The ceremony looked continued on page 26 www.bridegroommag.com

The couple got engaged in one of the most magical times and places of the year, New York City in December. over the water and was everything the couple had imagined for their day.

Details The theme of the Whitten wedding was butterflies and puzzle pieces. Chris had bought Lindsey a puzzle piece necklace for Valentine’s Day and it came with one for him to wear which fit into hers. Chris reminded Lindsey that she was the the last piece to his puzzle. With this memorable moment, their butterfly and puzzle[ piece theme seemed fitting. The couple went along with this theme by decorating with pictures with puzzle shapes of the two on different vacations. On the back of each puzzle piece was their guests name and table they were seated at. Instead of numbers, it was location. For example, Debbie Collins, Sanibel Island. And she would go to the Sanibel Island table, put her puzzle piece on the puzzle board, and once everyone was seated, there was a 26 Spring 2015

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collage of pictures from Lindsey and Chris on Sanibel Island. Lindsey loves butterflies, so they had detailed butterflies on their programs, cake, even live butterflies at the ceremony. While Lindsey got ready with her bridal party, guests were able to go kayaking or take hikes on the trails which Whispering Pines provides. Another memorable moment for the couple was doing the ‘first look’ which Lindsey highly recommends. That is when the bride and groom are together with the wedding party only, and

are able to see each other before the craziness begins. It gave the couple time to take it all in together. Their photographer enjoyed this moment too leaving more time for some formal pictures. Lindsey and Chris also had a photo booth which their guests raved about. After the reception ended, everyone headed down to the bonfire after changing into comfortable clothes and the couple and guests shared laughs and sang karaoke for the rest of the night. What a comfortable, relaxing night after a day of celebration!

Advice Lindsey and Chris both felt it was important not to stress. A lot of their friends who were married over the past few years seemed so stressed during the planning process that by the time the day got there, they just couldn’t wait for it to be all over. Planning the wedding together will take a lot of pressure of one individual. Work as a team to plan the most special day of your life together!

The Particulars Ceremony and Reception site: Whispering Pines West Greenwich, RI. wpinescc.com Photographer: Jamie Harrington at Image Ten Photography Riverside, RI. imageten.com Baker: Sin, Providence, RI. eatwicked.com Florist: The Flower Girl Rhode Island. bethanytheflowergirl Videographer: Pedini VIsuals Boston, MA. vimeo.com/pedinivisuals Music: Coastline Entertainment MA and RI. coastline-entertainment.com Brides Attire: Bella’s Bridal Boutique Worcester, MA. bellasbridalgowns.com Bridesmaids Attire: David’s Bridal Natick, MA. davidsbridal.com Groom and Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Cranston, RI. menswearhouse.com www.bridegroommag.com

Nuptials

nearby

Kristen and Drew June 8, 2014 Wedgewood Pines Country Club Their Story Like many couples, work brought Kristen Streck and Drew Small together. Kristen had been single for years, searching for her soulmate and reading books on how to meet good people, when the ever so quiet Drew asked her out at work one day. Kristen never noticed how handsome he truly was under the hat and safety glasses he seemed to hide behind. The two went out to lunch a couple times and by the end of their dinner date, Kristen knew he was “The One”. The couple spent their weekends at each other’s apartments until they decided to move in together. The rest fell into place.

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Kristen and Drew enjoy taking long walks on the weekend with their dog, Frye, and had been talking about trying one of the trails at Mount Wachusett. On a foggy Fall Sunday Drew said they should drive up to the top and check it out. The two reached the summit where it was windy and getting cold, so they quickly found cover under the observation tower for shelter. Drew asked Kristen to hold the dog’s leash while he tied his shoe, she looked down and saw it was untied. It was there on the mountaintop, bent on one knee, that Drew asked, “Will you marry me?”. Kristen responded “Of course, Yes!”. From then on, Kristen would often exclaim “Yay we’re getting married!” at random moments when she remembered that they had such an exciting day, and life to look forward to.

Planning Kristen and Drew were engaged for 8 months, and took the first month off of planning to bask in the engagement glory. Once the place and date were settled, everything else started falling into place. The couple selected vendors based on who their venue recommended and who they

met in person at bridal shows. Kristen and Drew found the planning process exciting yet stressful at times. There were so many things to decide on, what to wear, décor, food, entertainment, and how to fit it all in your budget. Though all of this seemed overwhelming for the couple at the time, they reassured themselves that once everything was set in stone, their day could be nothing but special. Kristen and Drew love the nature and the outdoors and wanted their ceremony as well as reception to reflect that. After a long process of finding a versatile ceremony and reception facility, Wedgewood Pines was the perfect fit. The couple needed an ideal location with a beautiful indoor and outdoor setting in case of bad weather. Wedgewood Pines offered a long open terrace with tall green trees behind it, as well as a roof. Luckily, the couples big day turned to be beautiful, and enjoyed an gorgeous outside wedding as they hoped.

Kristen and Drew love nature and the outdoors and wanted their ceremony as well as reception to reflect that.

Details Kristen and Drew had a subtle theme of lovebirds and lace, which they included in their stationery, centerpieces, and cake continued on page 30

www.bridegroommag.com

topper. The best part for their guests was the “photo wall” where they took fun pictures that were later posted on social media. (Easy access to fun wedding photos). The couple truly enjoyed the free dance lessons they received from a vendor they met at the Bridal Expo. They used the lessons to their advantage and surprised their guests by showing off that they learned to waltz! Dance lessons are a valuable purchase during the wedding planning process. Kristen and Drew planned their first dance and learned a skill they’ll have the rest of their lives.

Advice Kristen and Drew had great insight on the planning process and how to keep sane. It is always important to remember that you and your partner are bound to have disagreements when planning your wedding. Be sure to remind yourselves that it’s a celebration of your love. Always remind yourself that the people who love and support you will enjoy themselves no matter what, even if things don’t turn out how you had envisioned. Weather was one thing Kristen was truly worried about. In order to relieve wedding day weather jitters, be sure to research the date of your big day in different Farmer’s Almanac magazines. This will help you figure out what the weather outcome will be on your special day.

The Particulars Ceremony and Reception Venue: Wedgewood Pines Country Club Stow, MA. wedgewoodpines.com Photographer: Solare Wedding Photography, Chester, NH. solareweddingphotography.com Videographer: AVR Photography Chelmsford, MA. AVRphotgraphy.com Officiant: Justice Mike Backer Southboro, MA. mikebacker.com Ceremony Music: Alla Breve Duo Concord, MA. allabreveduo.com Cake: Icing on the Cake Newton, MA. tiotc.com Florist: Frugal Flower Sudbury, MA. frugalflower.com DJ: Platinum Productions Gardner, MA. platinumproductionsma.com Groom and Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Leominster, MA. menswearhouse.com Bridesmaid Attire: David’s Bridal Natick, MA. davidsbridal.com Brides Gown: Anne’s Bridal & Tux Gardner, MA. annesbridalandtux.com Dance Instruction: Fred Astaire Studios Worcester, MA. fredastaireworcester.com Hotel Accommodations: Holiday Inn Express Hudson, MA. expressmarlboro.com

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Things to Consider When Selecting an Officiant

leslieboudreau.com

by Donna Michael

irst, Congratulations! If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re reading this you must be planning your wedding.

What is an Officiant Officiant is the term that describes anyone who can legally perform a marriage. In Massachusetts, officiants include the clergy, judges, justices of the peace and city/town clerks. Under special circumstances, individuals may request permission to perform a wedding on a single-day license basis, if they do so in advance, through the Office of the Secretary of the State.

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Who can Officiants Marry? Officiants may perform marriages for anyone presenting a valid Marriage License from any city or town in Massachusetts. Licenses are valid for 60 days.

What does an Officiant do? The officiant marries you, right? WRONG. You marry each other. Officiants facilitate your marriage ceremony and are responsible for solemnizing your marriage and signing your license. The function of an officiant is different when a ceremony is civil than when a marriage is performed as part of a religious custom.

In a civil ceremony, an officiant performs several important duties according to the laws of the state:

circumstances where a close friend or family member may take the role of officiant with advance notice.

1. 2. 3. 4.

Location

Makes sure that each party is there of their own free will Pronounces you married and signs your license Sends your license back to the city/town where you obtained the license for recording and transfer to the Bureau of Statistics at the State Records your marriage in a permanent record.

That’s it. The rest is optional. When you’re married in your house of worship, members of the clergy are required to fulfill the duties of a civil officiant, and send your signed license back to the city/town where you applied, but they also provide evidence of your marriage according to your faith.

What should you consider when selecting an Officiant? There are several factors to consider when selecting an officiant. Some of which are religious beliefs, location, and style of the officiant.

Religious Beliefs If you both belong to a house of worship and want to be married according to your religious beliefs, you should contact your clergy. If neither of you have strong religious beliefs, or if you choose to be married in a civil ceremony, then you have the choice of a Justice of the Peace, City/Town Clerk or Judge. There are certain

If you have decided on being married by your clergy, check to see whether there are any limitations to the location of your ceremony. While some faiths allow for marriages to be performed outside of the house of worship, at reception venues, outdoor venues, etc., some do not, so keep that in mind when planning your wedding. If you have decided on a City/Town Clerk, most weddings are performed in the Municipal Offices and are fairly simple. Judges perform weddings in their Chambers and sometimes at venues. Because of the limited number of weekends, it’s important to decide which kind of ceremony you want and contact officiants as soon as possible. During peak wedding seasons, such as the spring and summer, the weekends are booked in advance.

Style It’s important to find an officiant who takes the time to get to know you and understand what’s special about you and your relationship. They will want to know about what kind of ceremony you have in mind, how many people are going to be in your wedding party, what “theme” you are looking for and if there are any people you want to include in your ceremony that will participate as readers. continued on page 96

www.bridegroommag.com

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Bostonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

North Shore L Shalin Liu Performance Center

by Stacey Marcus

Robert Benson Photography

ooking for a romantic and relaxed haven to honeymoon in New England? Couples seeking an enchanting escape can drive just an hour north of Boston to discover a coastal collection of seaside towns named Cape Ann. The lovely area is comprised of Gloucester, Essex, Manchester-by-the-Sea and Rockport. Rockport is located at the most Northern point and a great place to launch a life complete with a rich maritime history, beautiful beaches, charming bed and breakfast inns, boutique and specialty shopping, a myriad of dining options and a roster of ways to revel in the splendor of nature.

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Whether you pop by to enjoy a cozy weekend getaway before or after your wedding or book a week to relax and enjoy romance and relaxation, you will be rejuvenated and touched by your time in Rockport. Here are eight reasons to consider opening your heart to Rockport, a magical town whose natural beauty and light have been an inspiration to artists and photographers.

Dine Emerson by the Seaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grande Cafe offers a stunning setting where guests feel like royalty in its elegant setting and enjoy sumptuous dinner entrees as well as light casual fare. Here you will enjoy a bounty of fresh seafood dishes like sautĂŠed scallops and seafood stew in a grand setting.

My Place by the Sea Chef Kathy Milbury and co-owner Barbara Stavropoulos have created a magical and sumptuous ambience at My Place by the Sea. The charming restaurant located at the end of Bearskin Neck is the ideal setting for a cozy evening of romance complete with exquisitely continued on page 38

Schooner Thomas E. Lannon

Emerson by the Sea www.bridegroommag.com

Morning sunrise at Good Harbor

Skip Montello Photography

prepared appetizers and entrees and capped with decadent desserts. Careful attention is paid to every detail at My Place by the Sea where the magical view of sunset combines with inviting interiors (think intimate and cozy) and the piĂ¨ce de rĂŠsistance is fantactically fabulous food. Enjoy Be sure to check the schedule of the Shalin Liu Performance Center. when you visit Rockport. The magnficent performance center features breathtaking ocean views and extraordinary acoustics. Although it was originally designed for chamber music, the Shalin Liu Performance Center features amazing cultural events such as jazz, classical and pop. Also check out the Rockport Art Association and various galleries throughout town.

Shalin Liu Performance Center

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Robert Benson Photography

Dining at the Grand Café at Emerson by the Sea

Hike and Explore Hike along Halibut State Park and enjoy rock climbing and ocean views or find hidden treasures in lesser-known treasures like Cape Hedge Island, Whale Cove Landing, Gap Head, Pigeon Cove Harbor or Granite Pier.

Sail What better way to set sail in life than to enjoy a sail around one of the oldest fishing ports in America? Gloucester is short ride from Rockport and the home of The Schooner Thomas E. Lannon. Whether you want to charter a specialty sail (35-49 people) or enjoy a sunset cruise with your beloved, the Schnooner Thomas E. Lannon offers a relaxing and romantic way to enjoy a lovely sail with a lively crew.

Shop If you adore shopping at one-of-a-kind boutiques, art galleries or specialty shops, you’ll love meandering around town in Rockport. Void of chain stores and mass merchandise, Rockport is a breath of fresh air for shoppers looking for local and original gifts.

Stay The Cape Ann area is brimming with charming bed and breakfast inns where you can enjoy warm hospitality and delightful dining in an intimate setting. The Sally Webster Inn is conveniently located just three blocks from Rockport’s downtown shops and restaurants. Along with onsite parking and tidy rooms appointed with antique furnishings, the Sally Webster Inn boasts a bountiful breakfasts and helpful hosts.

Sun The Cape Ann area is brimming with wonderful beaches. Two popular beaches are Wingaersheek Beach and Good Harbor Beach in nearby Gloucester, however Rockport also has a collection of beaches for all ages. Whether you want to swim in the ocean, scuba diver, collect rocks or ctach an ocean breeze you will find beautiful beaches in Rockport including Back Beach (scuba diving and exploring), Front Beach (near shopping and dining), Old Garden Beach (secluded), Long Beach (stretches to Gloucester) and Pebble Beach (exploring). Stacey Marcus is a freelance writer based in Marblehead. www.bridegroommag.com

michellecarpenterphotography.com

Flower Power

What’s Trending in Pretty Posies for Brides This Spring by Stacey Marcus

ow that we have officially bid adieu to New England’s most historic wick-

ed winter, it’s time to shed light on what we’ve been waiting for...signs of spring. Wedding guests will enjoy this spring’s floral trends which are as diverse and delightful as the brides who freshly picked them. Here’s what our floral experts predict will lead the parade of posies this spring.

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bella flora

“I see a lot of brides using flowers that are not necessarily in season, centerpiece colors not in sync with the wedding party colors, and bridesmaids with corsages instead of bouquets.” Elyse Gaynor of Petrie’s Flower Shoppe.

gloriamesa.com

bella flora

gloriamesa.com

“The new trend is a mix of bright and matte colors, especially fall (jewel) tones. A remarkable accent to your floral display is candles, they are timeless and an inexpensive way to create a million dollar ambiance,” says internationally renowned special events and floral designer Ricardo Luna of Luna Garden Events.

erikafollansbee.com

Joanna Roush, wedding consultant at Perro’s Flowers says that “roses are always popular.”

www.bridegroommag.com

“I see a continuing trend in a country elegance that is casual and elegant,” says Ernie Maguy of Windmill Florist noting to be on the lookout for peonies, garden roses and succulents.

mbvphotography.com

erikafollansbee.com

“While some brides are continuing to go with a rustic motif, others are opting to use gemstones and many are being green-conscious selecting succulents in their bouquets or choosing centerpieces they can plant afterwards.” Sally Jablonski of Herbert E. Berg Florist, Inc.

“We tend to attract brides and grooms who want to use their dollars to support a local grower and who appreciate seasonal flowers and a more natural and informal aesthetic.” says Trish Wesley Umbrell, Farm Administrator at Natick Community Organic Farm.

mbvphotography.com

Petal Pushers: Alexis Conley of Bella Flora notes that brides are incorporating other natural items into their wedding designs including sticks, pearly willow, foliage, eucalyptus and dusty miller. Other uses for flowers include: Flowers in hanging baskets, Picture frames made out of flowers, Walls of flowers and Flowers ornamenting hair. gloriamesa.com

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Hebert E. Berg Florist bergflorist.com Petrie’s Flowers Shoppe flowershoppes.com Luna Garden Events lunagardensevents.com Bella Flora beebellaflora.com Perro’s Flowers perrosflowers.com NatickCommunity Organic Farm natickfarm.org Windmill Florist windmillfloristandgifts.com

HIS & HER Wedding Workouts by Erica Quandt

The Wedding Workout. Three words that transform into a daunting challenge a mere few days after the proposal. While every Bride wants to look her personal best on the Big Day, getting those toned arms, sculpted back and tight tush doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be a pressure-packed rollercoaster, and it certainly doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be a bride-exclusive activity.

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While there are many areas of wedding planning I have to explain to my fiancé (like the budget for his suit is not the same as for my dress), being motivated to get into great shape for our wedding thankfully was not one of them. Brides are not the only ones standing in front of friends and family, chased by cameras all day. Chances are most grooms-to-be aren’t hoping to hide behind an ill-fitting suit and have aspirations to emulate George Clooney. It’s more than setting fitness goals leading up to the nuptials; it’s about starting your married life together happy, fit and with healthy habits that will continue on long after you recite your vows! Most men will readily admit that constantly talking about venues, vendors and centerpieces can be exhausting, and sometimes taxing on your relationship. It’s easy to outright replace the fun banter, adventurous dates and cozy couch time that motivated a ring in the first place with wedding planning. Why not incorporate a mutually beneficial wedding activity you can do together, one that doesn’t involve talking about hydrangeas, discussing pros and cons of burlap, or haggling over seating arrangements. Introducing His and Her Wedding Workouts!

Set (realistic) Goals While setting individual goals will help you stay motivated and track progress, be mindful to choose realistic goals and benchmarks you can work towards throughout your engagement. Diversify your goals, not all of them should be pound- or size–oriented; add in some fitness achievements like running a certain number of miles each month, trying one of those crazy new workouts you read about each week, or holding that plank another 30 seconds longer. With plenty of fitness trackers on the market, consider splurging on some tech accessories and setting weekly or monthly goals on steps taken, calories burned, or, just as importantly, hours slept.

Track Participation and Be Creative It didn’t happen unless you write it down! Seeing a visual of your activities is a great way to stay focused and continue positive continued on page 46

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momentum. Tear down those bikini pictures on your fridge and put up “His and Hers” monthly workout calendars. Each month we mark down what days we did cardio, strength training, or any other form of healthy activity (color-coordinated, of course). I recommend getting creative. A simple check won’t do the trick, nor does it scream “fun”. Head down to Paper Source, or what local stationary store that probably now knows you by name, for a

few colorful inkpads, stamps or stickers. My fiancé is especially fond of his skiingthemed stamp.

at stake, just be careful what you wish for. For example, vanity plates are seen by a lot of people.

Keep Score and Make it Fun

Find Workouts You Can Do Together

Workout calendars are a great way to not only monitor activity but also tap into your competitive spirit. Challenge and encourage each other with monthly contests for most participation or goals achieved. Winner picks the movie for date night, or loser does the dishes that month. Whatever is

Target workouts that cater to various athletic abilities, providing both of you the opportunity to maximize your efforts. HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) classes and circuits are designed for a range of levels, often using your own body weight for resistance. Try the sample Total Body Circuit below to get started! Need some more inspiration? Check out the free Nike Training app or even Pinterest for daily circuits, it likely will be the only time your fiancé willingly looks at Pinterest! Over the last 6 months, we have found great success in all sorts of endeavors, from cardio boxing classes to indoor rock climbing to military-inspired bootcamps. I’m still waiting to find the right moment to suggest that trapeze class I’ve been reading about…

anzafotofilm.com

Sample Total Body Circuit Run ¼ Mile (0.25 miles on a treadmill, or one city block) 20 Push Ups 30 Squats 10 Burpees 15 V-up crunches 1 Minute Plank (Repeat 4 Times)

Worcester, MA • 508-755-7744 perrosflowers.com ericaewingphotography.com

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Erica Quandt pictured with her fiancé James McGuire works for Zepp Labs in San Francisco and is a freelance lifestyle writer.

Bridal Merchants Advertise in

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Fall 2015 Street date: September 1, 2015 Advertising deadline: June 28, 2015 bridegroommag.com

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Fenway Park Weddings

Kathleen and Brian Trojan

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or some baseball-loving couples, it doesn’t get better than this: Marrying in one of the game’s most iconic baseball stadiums, Boston’s Fenway Park. Bride & Groom Magazine features four local couples that recently married at the beloved stadium.

Images courtesy of nicolechanphotography.com

www.bridegroommag.com

Kathleen & Brian Trojan September 20, 2014

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Ashley & Steven McDowell September 21, 2014

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Megan & Rob Moriarty September 20, 2014

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Jen & Marc Fucarile April 17, 2014 Marc Fucarile is a Boston marathon survivor. They won the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Love Runs Through Bostonâ&#x20AC;? wedding giveaway. Dozens of Boston vendors donated their services to this wedding.

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Fenway Kathleen & Brian Trojan

Ashley & Steven McDowell

How did you get engaged? We got engaged on November 11, 2013. We had planned a trip to Costa Rica. On our second night we went to dinner and Brian had planned a private dinner under a gazebo. Once we got to the table we were told the table wasn’t ready yet so we decided to go down to the beach and watch the sunset. As we started down the path there were rose petals that led to tiki torches and a bottle of champagne on the beach. Brian got down on one knee and proposed.

Our advice to couples that are preparing for their wedding is to simply enjoy every minute of the process. The day goes by in a matter of minutes. Take the time to appreciate all of the hard work and dedication that was spent leading up to the day. No matter what happens throughout the day, it is your day, and it will be the best day of your lives.

What were some of the highlights and most memorable moments of the day? After the ceremony when all the guests went to cocktail hour we stayed outside and got some pictures with the blue night sky. It was an incredible feeling standing on top of the dugout looking out over Fenway Park just the 2 of us...we felt like we were in a movie.

The Particulars Ceremony: Fenway Park- married on top Visitors dugout Reception: EMC Club Fenway Park Photographer: nicolechanphotography.com Caterer: Aramark Baker: Cakeology Florist: Almquistflowerland.net Music: Ticco Robinson (DJ); Ben Rous (Virginia symphony orchestra) - ceremony music Bride’s and Bridesmaids’ Attire: Bride: Galina Signature dress from Davids Bridal Bridesmaids: JCrew Groom’s and Groomsmen’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse- Vera Wang

The Particulars Ceremony: Church of the Covenant 67 Newbury Street, Boston Reception: Fenway Park Royal Rooters Club Photographer: nicolechanphotography.com Caterer: Aramark Florist: winstonflowers.com Videographer: Focused Bliss Productions focusedbliss.com Music: Music Management musicmanage.com Transportation: Dav El davel.com Bride’s Attire: Allure Wedding Dress from Mariella Creations mariellacreation.com Wedding Shoes, Mischka Badgley mariellacreations.com Bride’s Hair & Makeup: EG Salon Egsalon.org Groom’s Attire: Daswani Clothiers daswaniclothiers.com Invitations: Marry Me! Designs marrymedesigns.com

Fenway Park is a unique destination to say “I do.” Boasting a stunning view of the skyline within a historic venue, their experienced team of professionals can create a package custom to you. From ceremony to reception, formal to fun, Fenway Park is an extraordinary setting for your dream wedding. bostonredsox.com 60 Spring 2015

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Fait hful Megan & Rob Moriarty

Jen & Marc Fucarile

Why did you choose the location of your wedding? Why not Fenway?! Sports are a huge part of what we do as a couple. We are New England sports fans and the history of Fenway Park is amazing. We thought this would be a memorable experience for us and our guests. After the ceremony, the guests took a tour of the park while we relaxed with our bridal party before cocktail hour.

Our most memorable moment at our wedding at Fenway Park would have to be when the Dropkick Murphys started to play as we walked down the aisle. Marc and I just said our vows after the worst year of our lives and all our loved ones were standing there...a band that embodies pure Boston spirit was playing. It was perfect. Advice I would give couples planning their wedding would be to follow your heart. Whatever means the most to you on that day...go with it. Don’t get hung up on the details, have fun and pick a great photographer. They capture the best parts of that day. Have fun and don’t stress!

What were some of the highlights and most memorable moments of the day? Wally and the World Series Trophies during the cocktail hour! This was entirely entertaining for adults and kids!

The Particulars Ceremony: Fenway Park Reception: Partner’s Suite at Fenway Park Hotel: Boston Hotel Buckminster bostonhotelbuckminster.com Photographer: nicolechanphotography.com Caterer: Aramark Baker: konditormeister.com Florist: Winston Flower’s in Boston winstonflowers.com Music: Jonathan Berube from Epic Entertainment Boston epicentertainmentboston.com Bride’s and Bridesmaids’ Attire: Maggie Sottero ‘Afton’ Wedding Gown & Maid of Honor Dress from Bridal Heirlooms. bridalheirlooms.net Groom’s and Groomsmen’s Attire: Calvin Klein Tuxedo from Men’s Wearhouse in Holyoke, MA menswearhouse.com Bride & Maid of Honor Makeup & Hair: Wedding Tresses weddingtresses.com

The Particulars Ceremony: Fenway Park Reception: Hotel Commonwealth hotelcommonwealth.com Event Planner: Gracie Lou Events gracielouevents.com Flowers: Mimosa Fresh Flower Design Photographer: nicolechanphotography.com Videographer: Promessa Films promessafilms.com Ceremony Music: Dropkick Murphys dropkickmurphys.com Reception Music: DJ Raffi djraffi.com Transportation: Boston Duck Tours bostonducktours.com Invitations/Paper Goods: Dulce Press dulcepress.com Wedding Gown: allegriabridal.com Bridesmaids Gowns: bellabridemaids.com Marc’s Tux: 9tailors.com Hair and Makeup: demichebeaute.com

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Taking A Seat

by Cindy Papish Gerber

leslieboudreau.com

Once your RSVP’s start rolling in, it’s time to think about organizing your seating charts. If this task

seems worrisome—relax! Deciding who sits where doesn’t have to be stressful. An online search yields many user-friendly seating chart software programs, apps and templates. Or DIY- it, using color-coordinated removable sticky notes placed on a poster-size diagram of your reception space. Whether you settle on a high-tech, low-tech or a combination method to tackle seating dilemmas, etiquette expert Jodi R.R. Smith of Mannersmith recommends “leaving this task until 2 weeks prior to your event. “Even at 2 weeks out”, she says, “There will still be some shifting and moving as additional RSVPs are returned. And there are always last minute cancellations.”

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“Most mainstream venues will give you a floor plan as a tool to complete the seating chart”, says event planner Tanya Costigan. “These scaled diagrams may include “set-ups for round or rectangular tables and how many people should fit at each. If you are using a venue that does not provide this, ask your wedding planner to help you determine table sizes and shapes.” “Eight guests per table is the magic number,” shares Costigan. And depending on the size of your room and guest list, “you may have to create tables of 10 or 12, or a mix”. Rectangular, or banquet tables--a popular option for barn, tent or restaurant spaces, “can fit many more if you connect them together. I’ve seen set-ups with a really long row of rectangular tables end to end that can fit 30+ people.” Your wedding coordinator can help you figure out the complex part of the puzzle: where to put close (and not so close) family members, attendants, co-workers, friends and kids, double-check that everyone is placed (without duplications) and offer the all-important advice on where you and your intended should sit. Here, personal preference yields to protocol. “Trends on head tables vary,” says Jodi RR Smith. A sweetheart table,” with just the couple works” she explains, “since they will be seated for

such a short amount of time”. Placed front and center, this cozy table for two allows you to enjoy a few precious moments during your reception. A more traditional head table model includes, “attendants on both sides of the bride and groom, so when everyone is seated there is the possibility of conversation.” Alternatively, some couples opt to sit at a “regular” table with immediate family. Next up: tackling the rest of the room. Unlike the ceremony, where the bride and groom’s families often sit on opposite sides of the aisle, certified wedding planner Karen Hyde believes, “there is no ‘written in stone rule’ for reception table groupings. “A good host or hostess would want guests to mix and mingle”. Similarly, Tanya Costigan feels its “important to show that you are now one big blended family and encourage everyone to get to know each other.” This strategy becomes most useful “in families where there has been a contentious divorce or long-standing family feuds,” Smith points out. “Keep those who cannot play nicely far apart.” Other situations call for sitting like with like. Are there outliers on your list who won’t know anyone else? Match them with others of similar interests or backgrounds. If you‘re inviting children, Karen Hyde suggests “seating them together (supervised) at a continued on page 64

DIY Seating Chart by SomethingTurquoise.com

Mike Carreiro Photography

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fun kids’ table, which allows the parents to enjoy their time.” Wee ones (5 and under) should sit with their parents. Think about placing elderly or special needs guests, nearer to aisles, exits and restrooms and away from loud music and the dance floor. Be especially sensitive about placement of unescorted, single guests. “DO NOT seat one guest who is single with a table full of couples” cautions Hyde.” “Should you decide to play matchmaker, get some input from your intended ‘fix-up’ first.” Reflecting upon their Sept 1, 2013 wedding at The Cranwell in the Berkshires, Ariel Astrachan Toback and her husband Isaiah wish they had been firmer about seating totals and deadlines. “With so many friends from different parts of our life, it was tricky figuring out who to seat with whom” recalls Ariel. “We underestimated the amount of people who would actually come and there were too many people in the room”. Her advice? “Take ownership” of the seating chart process. “Be clear about who to invite”, she says,” as couples and both sets of parents have their own ideas”. This clarity extends to handling advance seating requests. “Avoid them at all costs,” urges Costigan. Do your best, be polite, but don’t make commitments under pressure. “Be flexible” adds Ariel. “Even with no-shows. With so many important details to attend to, tables and seating should be the least of your worries.” Cindy Papish Gerber is a regular contributor to BRIDE&GROOM™. She writes from Connecticut.

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Simply Magical ericaewingphotography.com

ericsonphoto.com

Sterling National is located on a picturesque 18-hole golf course with breathtaking backdrops, floral gardens and stunning manicured grounds. The garden area is perfect for outdoor ceremonies, and our beautiful ballroom can accommodate up to 225 guests. Like us on

33 Albright Road â&#x20AC;˘ Sterling, Massachusetts 01564 â&#x20AC;˘ 978.422.0275 sterlingcc.com

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DoubleTree W

by Hilton Hotel by Diana Bierman

hether planning an intimate gathering or an elaborate formal affair, the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Westborough, MA is an ideal gateway to creating everlasting memories on your wedding day. Located at the junction of I-495 and Route 9 just north of the Massachusetts Turnpike and minutes from Worcester, the DoubleTree provides a convenient one-stop-shop location for nuptials of all sizes and styles. 66 Spring 2015

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A spacious property that will accommodate just about any type of function, the facility’s 7,840 square-foot ballroom can hold 500+ guests, or can be divided into five smaller rooms, able to hold up to 100 people each. Recently renovated, the ballroom boasts beautiful ornate lighting fixtures, new chairs and carpeting, and a large, customizable parquet dance floor to dance the night away. The ballroom also provides an elegant spot for couples to exchange vows. In the spring and summer months, brides and grooms can opt for the spacious outdoor patio, which offers a romantic ambiance for ceremonies. The patio also provides an ideal setting for cocktail hour, as does the chic indoor foyer. An array of versatile packages are available for soon-to-be wed couples. If planning for a cozy wedding, the Intimate Affair pack-

age begins with a choice of two of three displayed cocktail hour presentations: an international and domestic cheese and fruit display; seasonal fresh fruit and berries with honey yogurt; and crudité with fresh market vegetables with a variety of dips. This package also includes a four-course plated dinner, buffet, or stations. The Classic Sophistication package will give you everything the Intimate Affair package does, but adds a choice of four passed hors d’oeuvres, a traditional tiered wedding cake, a selection of chair covers and sashes, and floral centerpieces for each table. Next up is the Platinum Elegance package, which adds on one hour of open bar, house wine poured during dinner, and the option of chiavari chairs. continued on page 68

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And finally, if you want to go the whole nine yards, select the Grand Indulgence package, providing all of the aforementioned elements, plus a five-hour open bar and a decadent Viennese dessert display. A wide range of mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres options will leave your guests wanting more. No matter what you pick—from Caribbean bruschetta with shrimp and lobster to warm brie with crushed raspberries and wild mushroom or saffron aranchinis— the finger foods will no doubt have your guests talking long after the happy event is over. The plated entrees are just as delicious—and the DoubleTree has 14 options to choose from. There’s chicken (Mediterranean, Picatta, Marsala, Orchard, Champagne, and Tuscan style), seafood (haddock, salmon, and lobster) and beef (prime rib and filet mignon). Additionally, the DoubleTree is happy to provide kosher-style, vegan, children’s, and dietary restricted meals by advance request. In fact, they can accommodate the menu to fit whatever it is you might need. “We did an entirely gluten-free, nut-free bat mitzvah for 140 people in May last year at the same time that we had another large 100 person party taking place,” says Oliver Knight, Director of Catering. 68 Spring 2015

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Every package comes with a complimentary food tasting and complimentary cake cutting, a private room for photos, votive candles, a champagne toast, and much more. Demonstrating their pristine attention to detail, the DoubleTree also provides chocolate-covered strawberries and champagne delivered to the new husband and wife, as well as a free stay on the wedding night and breakfast in the morning. When you book the DoubleTree as your wedding venue, not only will you receive a professional event services manager to assist with all of your planning needs, but other perks as well. For example, the facility is part of the Hilton HHonors® Program, which allows brides and grooms to earn one HHonors point and/or one airline mile per every dollar spent. Couples can redeem these points at any Hilton worldwide, so it’s an opportune way to save on a dream honeymoon. The hotel itself features 223 guest rooms, including one suite, so there’s no shortage of accommodations for guests (plus, they’ll receive a special overnight rate if 10 or more rooms are reserved and a personalized wedding website). And for the rest of your wedding planning needs, check out the facility’s preferred vendor list, which includes local contacts for cakes, florists, photographers, videographers, DJs, bands, beauty salons/spas, limo rentals, and more. Whether your wedding is an extravagant affair or a small intimate celebration, the staff at DoubleTree in Westborough is ready to make every moment in your journey an unforgettable one. For more information, visit www.bostonwestborough.doubletree.com. Diana Bierman is a freelance writer based in Northborough, MA.

For more information DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel 5400 Computer Drive Westborough, MA 01581 508-366-5511 bostonwestborough.doubletree.com

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the

Memories

Award winning photographer with more than 18 years of experience. Specializing in both traditional and photojournalistic styles, capturing stunning, one-of-a-kind moments. Like us on 1033 Providence Road â&#x20AC;˘ Whitinsville, MA 01588 508-234-2777 â&#x20AC;˘ paulsrobinsonphotography.com

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Shaker H ills

theimagerystudio.com

Country Club

by Diana Bierman

magine saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;I doâ&#x20AC;? in a tranquil outdoor setting, overlooking beautiful well-manicured greens. Indoors, the celebration of a lifetime in a cozy, intimate setting, accented with an elegant fireplace. All within a short drive from Boston, Worcester and Nashua highways.

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Sound too good to be true? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not! Shaker Hills Country Club, set in rural Harvard, MA, and just minutes off Route 2 and Interstate 495, offers an array of exciting wedding possibilities. Under new ownership and management, Shaker Hills, which has been open since 1991, has recently undergone a full renovation to offer brides and grooms a one-of-akind sophisticated atmosphere unlike any other. For a picturesque outdoor ceremony, couples can opt to get married against the backdrop of the tree-lined first fairway on the green velvety grounds of the first tee. While exchanging their vows, guests can take in the panoramic views of the 200-plus acres of natural surroundings (which also makes for beautiful photos). The one-event-a-day facility also offers an indoor ceremony option that can seat up to 140 guests. The room is lined with stylish windows in a neutral scheme to compliment a wide range of wedding decor and themes. After the ceremony, guests can head up to the partially covered top deck for cocktail hour, which can accommodate up to 200 people. The bride and groom, continued on page 72

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along with their closest family and friends, will be able to admire the beautiful natural surroundings below them, while enjoying a variety of cocktails and delicious hors d’oeuvres. From sesame crab cakes to beef tenderloin canapés and bacon-wrapped scallops, the food at Shaker Hills is top notch. The upper and lower patio areas are adorned with dual stone fireplaces for a special touch. The wedding reception takes place in the newly renovated and elegantly styled Canterbury Ballroom and adjoining Gallery Lounge, which includes a luxurious, freshly updated bar and seating area. Combined to seat up to 200 guests, the two rooms are brimming with chic wood and leather accents. But perhaps the most unique feature of all is the fireplace in the center of the room, which sets a truly romantic ambiance. Couples can choose between two wedding packages. The Classic Elegance package offers a champagne toast, a choice of four passed and two stationary hors d’oeuvres, a station-style presentation including a pasta station, choice of two entrees and two side dishes with the salads served at the table. The Simply Delightful package consists of four hors d’oeuvres (three passed and one stationary) and a seated menu that includes a salad and a choice of three entrees and two sides. As for the main courses, the mouth-watering fare is sure to please any palate. Just some of the entrees available include prime 72 Spring 2015

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rib, mustard-crusted rack of lamb, stuffed chicken with pesto cream, and crabmeattopped haddock. Pair the meals with side dishes like maple-ginger carrots, tri-color tortellini Alfredo, and garlic green beans. And make sure your guests save room for dessert! From assorted cakepops to decadent truffles and creamy crème brulee, all of the dessert stations are offered a la carte. Alcohol services are flexible; whether open bar, cash bar, or a combination of the two, Shaker Hills is open to creating the day you want. “We’re very easy to work with,” says JoAnn Upham, general manager. “The menus can be customized to suit your needs, and we’ll do anything we can within reason to create the day you want.” All room selections include chiavari chairs in the ballroom, a choice of colors for floorlength table linens (which can be upgraded to different textures and designs) and napkins, a bridal hospitality suite (which includes a private changing room with mirrors and vanity), and a personal event coordinator during the reception. In addition to weddings (which are held April through November), Shaker Hills also welcomes rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, engagement parties, and banquets for all occasions. The Gallery Lounge can also be used to accommodate smaller parties. And for convenience, local accommodations are a mere 10 minutes away, offering complimentary shuttle service for your guests. All told, Shaker Hills is more than a wedding venue, providing second-to-none attention to detail in order to seamlessly execute a flawless, unforgettable day. “We devote our full attention to ensuring your day is perfect,” says Upham. Diana Bierman is a freelance writer based in Northborough, MA.

For more information Shaker Hills Country Club 146 Shaker Road Harvard, MA 01451 978-772-3330 shakerhills.com

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Ceremony site at The Sullivan House

Local Island “I Do’s” Couples from around the globe journey to our neck of the woods to tie the knot. Is an island wedding right for you? by Andrea E. McHugh

t can be easy to forget that some of the most desired wedding destinations in the world are right in our backyard. The exquisite islands of Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard and Block Island are as distinctive as they are serene. When hosting a wedding in one of these extraordinary places, the nuptial adventure begins as soon you and your guests board the ferry or hop on the plane, making for an unforgettable experience and treasured memories. For some couples, marrying on these renowned islands evoke the best of childhood memories while for others, saying “I do” miles away from the mainland starts a new chapter all its own. Whichever the case, a wedding on Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard or Block Island will be one to remember. Photo Courtesy of Zofia & Co.

The Wauwinet on Nantucket Island

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The exquisite islands of Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard and Block Island are as distinctive as they are serene. With its charming mystique and rich history, Nantucket is an idyllic setting for both grand nuptial celebrations and romantic, intimate weddings alike. Thirty miles out to sea, the island offers a handful of full service hotels for a wedding weekend as well as cozy inns and sweeping beaches for a decidedly casual affair. The Wauwinet overlooks glistening Nantucket Bay and though little more than eight miles from downtown, it feels a world away. It’s the pristine luxury locale for your whole wedding entourage to take over the 32 guest rooms and cottages for a private weekend retreat. Guests can get to know one another before the big day over champagne and s’mores on the beach at nightfall. In May 2015, The Wauwinet will open their newly converted three bedroom cottage, Anchorage House at The Wauwinet. “It has that feeling of a home away from home – the entire wedding party can enjoy a rehearsal clambake on the beach followed by a tented wedding ceremony and reception on the lawn and a goodbye brunch on the following day,” says Aoife Owens, Director of Sales and Marketing at Nantucket Island Resorts. “Nantucket is such a beautiful, special place that most couples fall in love with the island and want to share it with their friends and families. Its pristine beaches, dramatic bluffs, the traditional elements of the downtown historic district all pro-

vide the perfect setting for any wedding with the natural beauty of the island as a stunning backdrop.” The White Elephant on Nantucket Harbor equally offers couples a luxury wedding experience. Al fresco ceremonies can be held on the manicured Harborside Lawn with the reception at the Harborview Deck which can accommodate up to 150 guests. Its convenient downtown location allows guests to set out on jaunts like savoring local flavor at Nantucket’s lauded restaurants, shopping the unique boutiques, visiting attractions like the Nantucket Whaling Museum and exploring the island by bicycle. “Of course there are pristine beaches, cobblestone streets and old school Americana on every street and street corner, but what makes Nantucket so special are the professional vendors we have on island to ensure that every bride’s and groom’s continued on page 76

The Sullivan House on Block Island www.bridegroommag.com

visions become a reality,” says Jimmy Jaksic, owner and wedding planner at Immaculate Reception based on the island. “Because all of us vendors work so much and well together, we take the stress out of wedding planning and executing, which allows our clients the ability to relax, enjoy and celebrate.” On Martha’s Vineyard, engaged couples will find a diverse array of venues. For rustic charm, the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Hall, a 100-year old post and beam barn reconstructed in 1993, sits on 21 bucolic acres. Here you can customize your wedding from the menu to the décor and everything in-between. The Winnetu Oceanside Resort in Edgartown, meanwhile, offers waterfront views, a bevy of on-site ceremony sites and a fleet of unique antique vehicles that will make your ride to and from the church or an après ceremony photo excursion around town something you’ll never forget. The natural beauty of Rhode Island’s Block Island promises couples an event with natural elegance. The iconic Spring House hosts weddings big and small with Victoria’s Parlor, a Victorianera lounge area with a bar and dance floor, lending a sophisticated ambiance on the inside with a wraparound veranda and lush lawn peppered with Adirondack chairs overlooking the sea outside. The historic Sullivan House, built in 1904, is the backdrop for tented weddings on the property, all with panoramic water views. “Block Island is ideal for destination weddings. It is easily accessible but once you get here, it is like being in another world,” says Rosalie O’Brien Kivlehan, owner of The Sullivan

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House. Kivlehan says the venue offers the best of Block Island – natural beauty combined with elegance and fun. “Our big white tent, on the high green hill, surrounded by the ocean is an iconic Block Island scene. It is the perfect place for family and friends to come together to celebrate the gift of love.” Andrea E. McHugh is a regular contributor to BRIDE&GROOM™. She writes from Newport, RI.

paulsrobinsonphotography.com

Catering to You

COME SEE OUR BALLROOM RENOVATIONS COMPLETED DEC. 2014! Mention this ad when you come for a site visit of our NEW ballroom and we’ll give you a $25 gift certificate for use in our also new Regatta Bar & Grille. From “I Do” to the last dance, our professional event staff offers imagination, thoughtfulness and a stunning site for all of your celebrations. We offer a 7800 square foot Grand Ballroom plus flexible, smaller spaces accommodating events fro 500+ guests. Outdoor ceremony space is also available. Please contact Kasee Clayton, our Social Catering Sales Manager at 508.616.7436

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON BOSTON - WESTBOROUGH 5400 Computer Drive, Westborough, MA 01581 T: (508) 366.5511 BostonWestborough.DoubleTree.com

Fetching Festivities: Incorporating Your Pet in Your Wedding by Stacey Marcus

little research reveals that between 70-80 million people in the United States own a dog. For some pet owners, their four-legged friend was their true love long before their human soul mate came into the picture. So when it came time to tie the knot, of course the dog was part of the wedding party. “I don’t think we ever ‘decided’ to include our dog, Cody, in our wedding - it was just assumed from the beginning. Cody is our happy, quirky little shadow and we tend to travel as a trio. So when we started looking at venues, asking ‘are you dog friendly?’ was a standard question,” said Stephanie Albert . “I know it probably sounds ridiculous, but having the dog really made us feel like a little family instead of just a couple. By the time we were planning our wedding a year after his adoption, Cody was solidly established as a family member and we couldn’t imagine getting hitched without him,” said Albert. Stephanie and her husband Eben were wed at The Colony in Kennebunkport, Maine. The hotel provides everything you need to keep your four-legged traveling companion comfortable including pet blankets, water stations, several biodegradable bag dispensers and acres of walking/playing areas. Dogs are welcome on The Colony’s private beach, and if needed the hotel can help find a pet sitter if guests’ plans require one.

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michaeljcharles.com

For some pet owners, their four-legged friend was their true love long before their human soul mate came into the picture. The Colony’s Dog Lover’s Weekend (now in its 11th year) held each fall is also full of special events including a runway show and uniting dogs in “holy-mutt-trimony. “Cody was actually part of the whole (wedding) process. When Eben proposed, we were out on the Eastern Promenade Park (in Portland, Maine) playing catch with the dog, as we used to do often when we lived on Munjoy Hill. He was included in our engagement shoot. We even took him to planning meetings with our photographer. We toyed with a few different ways Cody could be included in the wedding ceremony; we thought maybe he would be a ‘groomsman,’ then we thought maybe the flower girl could walk him down the aisle. In the end, we continued on page 82

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decided Cody would make an excellent ring bearer. Our families thought that we were a little crazy to entrust our gold rings to our marginally-trained mutt, but we knew that he would run right to us. He nailed it; we stuck our rings in a little pouch attached to his harness, and called him when a friend unleashed him at the end of the aisle. We didn’t even need the dog treats Eben had in his pocket just in case.” “After the ceremony and photos, Cody’s job was mostly over (and he was taken back to our dog-friendly suite at the Colony). Having the pup participate in the wedding had one unplanned benefit; after the toasts were all given, Eben and I snuck out of the reception to feed Cody in our room. It ended up being a really precious few minutes of calm in the middle of the crazy, fun day!” Couples who have rescued their dogs have a special bond so it makes sense that they would included them in the festivities.“Rescuing animals are an important element of Buttermilk Falls Inn + Spa’s (located on the Hudson River in New York) DNA. We have rescued llamas, alpacas, goats, chickens, peacocks and an adorable family of miniature donkeys living on our Millstone Farm, while geese, ducks and swans now call the property’s ponds home. So when a couple wants to incorporate a dog into their wedding, we’re delighted. In fact, in our country chic setting, a dog in the wedding party fits right in!” says General Manager CJ Hartwell. A growing number of hotels and inns in New England are welcoming pets to stay at their establishments. Looking for a place to bring your four legged friend? Here is a list of some of great websites where you can stay with your pet. It is a great resource to begin researching if you want your pet to be part of your wedding. Stacey Marcus is a freelance writer based in Marblehead.

Sit, Stay, Play! dogfriendlynewengland.com newenglanddogtravel.com northernnewengland.com petswelcome.com visitnewengland.com 82 Spring 2015

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For the Perfect Wedding Trust your Special Day to the Bakery that has been voted Worcester County’s “Best Bakery” times!

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OAHU:

More Hula, Less Moolah Oahu Diamond Head Waikiki Lights

Hawaii Tourism Authority - Joe Solem

by Debbi K. Kickham and William D. Kickham, Esq.

ho doesn’t dream of a Hawaiian honeymoon? The Aloha State is captivatingly attractive – and expensive. But with our insider tips, you can have a champagne experience in the Pacific Paradise, at sparkling-cider prices. Stay at the Shoreline, a Joie de Vivre hotel, located about a block from Waikiki’s beaches; room rates start at $189, featuring high-thread-count sheets, microwaves, and Keurig coffee machines. A swanky setting in a great location. There’s a 24-hour complimentary coffee station in the lobby and rooftop pool. www.jdvhotels.com/hotels/hawaii/shoreline-hotel-waikiki Hawaii Tourism Authority - Tor Johnson

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At the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, enjoy complimentary daily “Breakfast on the Beach”; room rates online start at about $229. Right across from Waikiki Beach, a prime haven for honeymooners. www.AstonHotels.com One of our best Hawaiian food finds is Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. Delicious “you-know-whats” are made into tacos ($12.99), fried into coconut-popcorn ($19) or simply skewered with vegetables ($19). All get five stars on the yummy-o-meter. Bill still dreams about the chocolate Alabama brownie served with an excellent espresso sauce. www.bubbagump.com/pdf/ menus/BGHL.pd The Hula Grill is another enjoyable option; it serves amazing farm-to-table fare such as kabocha squash gnocchi. If you have a tight budget dine at its Plantation Bar, with its $20 Baja fish tacos, $12 macadamia-nut shrimp, $9 roasted beet salad and $9 hula pie. Hula Grill is famous for using local ingredients, and no visit to Oahu is complete without a dinner here. A delicious must-do! www.hulagrillwaikiki.com We were impressed with the Hard Rock Café, not only for its memorabilia, but its awesome food. We had the $26 “Pier 38 Catch of The Day” mahi-mahi that came with a terrific sweet-soy glaze. The $11.95 bruschetta was also terrific, as was the chocolate lava cake for dessert. www.hardrock.com/cafes/honolulu

Other Inexpensive Options • A climb up Diamond Head only costs $1, and will work off weight as you take in panoramic views of the island. • All Hawaiian beaches are free, so scoop up the sands in front of any luxury hotel. • At the Outrigger Waikiki, take a Faith Surf School outrigger canoe ride ($15pp) that lets you catch four waves. • We love Hawaii’s ubiquitous ABC stores for inexpensive souvenirs: Kona coffee, chocolate-covered macadamia nuts and our favorite – Maui Babe Browning Lotion for the perfect tan. Purchase a $2 tube here, and have them blow it up for you, to obviate renting one for big money at the beach. • The Honolulu Cookie Company offers delicious macadamianut shortbread cookies, mostly covered in chocolate; buy a bag for about $10. Visit award-winning Il Gelato, for gianduja (Nutella) ice cream. A cone costs $5. • On Friday nights, Hilton Hawaiian Village has fabulous fireworks. • Rent a car for one day, and head to the North Shore to see the big waves that are home to major surfing competitions. Stop for a shaved ice at Matsumoto General Store, and don’t miss the North Shore Soap Factory. This hidden gem offers gorgeous made-in-Hawaii soaps, scrubs, skincare, candles and more, all affordably priced and with a succulent smell. We especially love the mango and the chocolate-mint soaps. Brides: You can also custom-order small $2 soaps to use as wed-

ding favors, embossed with your names and wedding date! www.hawaiianbathandbody.com

Super Splurges Dinner at Sansei is not to be missed. It was impossible to stick to just a few items at D. K Kodama’s award-winning restaurant. We highly recommend shrimp dynamite – cute little crustaceans buried in a nest of noodles and served with delicious sauce. You will taste fireworks. The miso-marinated butterfish? It was like butter, only sweet and scrumptious. The highlight is Mediterranean-style fish with a risotto of shrimp, scallops and locally grown tomatoes. We give Sansei five stars. www.DKrestaurants.com Chef Chai proffered perfection, starting with a comp tray of chicken sauté with a peanut sauce, along with a dee-lish salad marinated with mirin and sugar. You must, must, must order the mushroom and truffle risotto cake, served with the ultimate tomato sauce of our dreams. The wild New Zealand continued on page 86 www.bridegroommag.com

Hawaii Tourism Authority - Tor Johnson

salmon was indescribably delicious. Desserts include a luscious cheesecake swaddled in coconut, and a chocolate mousse with hazelnut crust. The only thing missing was angel food cake to make it more heavenly. www.chefchai.com/menu Splurge at the spa at the Sullivan Estate (on Oahu’s North Shore), where you can receive a JK7 facial, which is a favorite of celebrities. This silken service includes application of JK7 products, which are as luscious as they are luxurious. Made by Dr. Jurgen Klein (the founder of the cult beauty brand Jurlique) JK7’s silken skincare is handcrafted in small

batches and includes Tahitian vanilla scrub, lemon-lime makeup remover, and neroli-and-rose Rejuvenating cream. If you only get one facial in your entire lifetime – this is it. You’ll be spoiled for life. www.JK7skincare.com Oahu’s best-kept secret is the RockA-Hula show. Equal parts Las Vegas and luau, it is a Polynesian adventure with hula dancers and fire eaters – along with amazing performances by “Elvis,” “Lady Gaga” and “Michael Jackson.” Those three imitators gave remarkable performances that were spot-on and absolutely wowed us. Dinner and show packages are available for $99pp – and worth every

penny. www.rockahulahawaii.com Furthermore, no honeymoon is complete without a massage at a sybaritic spa; we recommend Serenity Spa at the Outrigger Reef Hotel. This Aveda spa offers rubdowns with fragrant Active oil. Winnie gave Deb a head-to-toe melting massage ($110 for 50 minutes) that completely calmed down her karma. www.outriggerreef-onthebeach.com/spa And speaking of the oceanfront Outrigger Reef resort – here’s what we recommend. Book your last two nights here as the piece de resistance, and the crowning glory to your honeymoon. Dine at its Shorebird restaurant, where you can grill-

Lunch at Duke’s Waikiki

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your-own entrée such as the $22.95 mahi mahi. You’ll want to return for years to come after you’re married. Even more reason why? The hotel offers complimentary vow-renewal ceremonies two days a week – and it’s a great way to make even more Hawaiian memories. Aloha! www.outriggerreef-onthebeach.com/ accommodations/index.cf For more information: www.gohawaii.com/oahu

Getting There Heading to Hawaii from Boston is a l-o-n-g trek – especially with air travel these days being the brutal experience it is. So, we ALWAYS stop in Los Angeles, at the Four Points LAX hotel for at least two days so we can recover from airline travel. Nothing beats their amazing Four Points beds that cradle you in comfort; the internet offers specials where you can book 24-hour stays and obviate the dreaded 11AM checkout. Its on-site restaurant and bar, Brewster’s, offers more than 100 craft beers; there’s also a 24/7 gym, $5 shuttles to Manhattan Beach pier, and an in-house car rental, Nu Car Rentals, for the ultimate in convenience. (Ask for Tee Ezeudu, the car rental manager, who is terrific.) The Four Points LAX? Can you tell we love it? www.fourpointslax.com How’d we get to the airport? BostonCoach. We swear by BostonCoach, as it offers over-the-top service – from the luxury fleet of cars to the well-suited chauffeurs (who always know the quickest way to Logan Airport). Another plus: You can book

your transportation practically anywhere in the world, with BostonCoach. Did you just do a double-take? BostonCoach has thousands of vehicles worldwide to provide clients with executive car service. We can’t emphasize enough the safety and security we feel in booking BostonCoach from our Boston-area offices. It’s a first-class beginning and a smart start to your honeymoon. bostoncorpcoach.com/boston-coach Debbi K. Kickham is a professional travel journalist, and author of The Globetrotter’s Get-Gorgeous Guide (GorgeousGlobetrotter.com), which is the world’s first beauty book geared to traveling women and brides.

www.bridegroommag.com

A Pop of Marsala

philfoxphotography.com

by Cindy Papish Gerber

leslieboudreau.com

antone Color Institute™, the worlds’ leading authority on professional color standards, chooses a “Color of the Year”. For 2015, they have selected “Marsala” as the color that will be reflected in every aspect of home décor, fashion and design trends. What we non-experts commonly identify as cranberry, maroon or burgundy, Pantone’s describes as: “The charismatic and highly varietal shade of Marsala; a tasteful hue that embodies the satisfying richness of a fulfilling meal, while its grounding red-brown roots emanate a sophisticated, natural earthiness. Complex and full-bodied, this hearty, yet stylish tone is universally appealing; translating easily to fashion, beauty, industrial design, home furnishings and interiors.”

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Whether reflected in a crystal goblet, gleaming sports car or leather handbag, Marsala definitely evokes luxury and style. But will this color have any influence on wedding palettes? “Prior to the selection of Marsala, much of what we continually see are softer more diffused pinks” says Katie Mamula, the Creative Director of Slainte Event Planning & Design. “With its depth, Marsala is adding passion and edginess back into color selections we are seeing at weddings. It can be a big statement color or subtly incorporated with flowers, menus, boutonnieres, or a pair of vintage garnet earrings”, she explains. “It is not for every bride, but I believe it parallels navy in the sense that it is a more neutral version of red and can be used a lot, or in small moments without too much drama.” Indoors or out, informal or grand, splashing just a touch of this deep wine shade infuses glamour into any wedding venue. “The Worcester Art Museum is the perfect backdrop for the richness of Marsala, which is so popular with wedding parties this year,” notes Janice Potter, the museums’ wedding consultant. ‘It’s an elegant, warm color that contrasts beautifully with the stone and tiles in both the Renaissance Court and Chapter House, and echoed in so many of the works of art on display.” Used against a continued on page 90

leslieboudreau.com

philfoxphotography.com

Worcester Art Museum

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Makeup by Hey Good Look’n Salon and Spa

neutral background and especially when juxtaposed next to bridal white, it truly pops in photos. Suddenly, Marsala wedding attire is EVERYWHERE: Online, in the windows of neighborhood boutiques and displayed in major retail outlets. Gowns, cocktails dresses, cummerbunds, vests, pocket squares, tuxedos and accessories in a variety of fabrics and textures can be mixed, matched, or used alone. If you’ve always dreamt of wearing real ruby-toned slippers on your wedding day, you are in luck! Marsala bridal shoes in every style can be bought or custom-dyed to order. “About 70% of the brides that come in the door are using color shoes with their white dress”, says Ron Davis of Shoes to Dye For. Lately, Davis

leslieboudreau.com

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has seen “a lot of dark reds, fuchsias and purples” and received requests for “newly popular multi-colored shoes” for a tie-dye or rainbow effect. “Brides choose tones that they personally relate to”, he maintains, “Whether it’s their favorite color, to match bridesmaids’ dresses or their overall color scheme--which may or may not be dictated by the Pantone’s predictions.” Painting your toes and nails in glossy or sparkly Marsala will add extra ‘polish’ to your bridal look. As hair and makeup artists, Ashleigh Labossierre and Brittany McGlone of Beauty in Motion find Pantone’s Color of the Year very influential. “We have worked with brides who have incorporated Marsala in their makeup, lip color, and blush”, Ashleigh notes, “Especially when

leslieboudreau.com

paired with a shimmery gold eyeshadow. It looks good on a wide variety of skin tones.” Some of their favorite products within this palette include Aqua Rouge 7 Pink Brown lipstick by Make Up for Ever and Nars Blush in Almeria. “This color will be very popular for Fall Weddings” says Joan Moreschi, Wedding Specialist at Hebert E. Berg Florist. “It lends itself to the deeper darker tones.” Marsala roses, orchids, clematis, tulips, peonies and even berries can be worked into bouquets or centerpieces for a romantic effect. Caitlyn Spaulding, the Head of Style and Design at Pepper’s Fine Catering and Owner/ Designer at Wouldn’t it be Lovely finds “Many brides love this color because it’s not overly girly.” She’s also noticed an increasing number of wedding inspiration boards “using Marsala in a variety of ways. The initial reaction is that it’s perfect for winter and fall and too dark for a spring or summer wedding” she says, “when really, that is not the case at all.” Spaulding is currently working this versatile hue into “‘mostly mint, sage and white invitations” for a garden-themed wedding. “I brought Marsala in to give it a bit more

depth and interest, which makes it so contemporary and new”, she notes. “One of my current favorite pairings right now is Marsala with blush, gold and nudes. On a garden table with lots of candles, some silver dollar eucalyptus runners, gold flatware, and maybe some sparklers at the end of the night…. that’s my dream wedding at the moment! “ Cindy Papish Gerber is a regular contributor to BRIDE&GROOM™. She writes from Connecticut.

Sources Hebert E. Berg Florist bergflorist.com Peppers Fine Catering pepperscatering.com Shoes to Dye For shoestodyefor.com Slainte Event Planning & Design slainteevent.com Wouldn’t It Be Lovely wouldntitbelovely.com/about-me Pantone pantone.com Bonardis bonardis.com Hey Good Look’n Salon and Spa heygdlooknsalon.com

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Holiday Inn Boxborough

In Boxborough lies a unique location for your extraordinary Wedding. You will be captivated by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls in our Atrium Courtyard, or you could choose our beautiful Grand Ballroom with adjacent Terrace Bar.

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Specializing in custom menus and flexible wedding packages, the Holiday Inn Boxborough will meet your every need!

(978) 889-1715

www.boxboroughweddings.com 242 Adams Place, Boxborough, MA

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Enjoy the

Moment

Make your event one that your guests will remember. Ambiance Linens will provide you with personalized service, free design consultation, and quality linens, all at affordable prices.

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“Officiant” continued from page 33

You should feel comfortable talking to the officiant and they should help you if you have any questions about the details of your ceremony. Think of them as a trusted partner in making your day perfect.

Justices of the Peace Justices of the Peace offer clients the most flexibility in designing and officiating wedding ceremonies. Justices prepare weddings according to the needs and wishes of their clients. They are prepared to officiate at any venue in Massachusetts and in certain circumstances in New Hampshire and Vermont. Here are just a few of the services Justices may provide to their clients:

Prime 2015 & 2016 Dates Available • On-site Weddings • Garden Gazebo • Ample Parking • Seating from 75 to 260 • Picturesque Landscaped Gardens

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No room charge with parties over 90. Please call to set up a complimentary appointment and view our facility. 206 Southbridge Road • Rt 12/20. N. Oxford, MA. 508-832-9705 • www.janthonysgrill.com

1. Pre-wedding consultation Justices sit down with clients to get to know them and what they want their ceremony to be. They listen to their clients’ wishes and make suggestions about elements of the ceremony they may not be aware of or special touches that can personalize their ceremony. This is provided as part of the fee. 2. Ceremony Justices of the Peace provide clients with a ceremony developed especially for the couple. Justices of the Peace have a wealth of knowledge about special ceremonies they can include to personalize a wedding. Here are just a few of the options available including: Rose Wine Sand Hand-Fasting Box, Wine, Letters Unity Candle Family 3. Rehearsals Justice can guide you through your rehearsal at the venue in cooperation with your meeting planner. They typically go through your vows and readings and help you line up for the processional and recessional. Donna Michael has been a Justice of the Peace for the town of Ashburnham for nearly ten years and has served on the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Justices of the Peace Association for over eight years, where she currently serves as Vice President.

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B&G’s Picks 1.

SPRING 2015

2. 1.

3. 3.

4. 4.

5. 98 Spring 2015

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What better way to say “thanks” to your bridesmaids than with a thoughtful (and cute!) personalized necklace by The Merriweather Council? Available in a variety of fabrics, shapes, and colors, each necklace is hand-embroidered to order. No two are alike! merriweathercouncil.com Make a sweet statement at your reception with Sticky! Mixing traditional candy-making techniques with a sprinkle of modern art, Sticky specializes in handmade customized candies and lollipops perfect for any couple’s big day. Choose from hundreds of sweet flavors, colors, and customized designs.The end result is a personalized wedding treat sure to put love in everyone’s tummy. stickyusa.com Savor that first bite of your wedding cake forever with vintage silverware from Love Letters Upcycled. Offering forks, cake servers, and everything in between, each item is lovingly hand-stamped and personalized. Not only will these works of art add a little something to your reception table, they’ll be a great reminder of your wedding day for years to come. lovelettersupcycled.etsy.com You’re in love and you don’t care who knows it! Show the world that you’re smitten with a personalized iPhone case from Dear LC. Available in a variety of bold, geometric designs, this case can even be customized to match your wedding colors. Available for the iPhone 4, 4s, and 5. dearlc.com Looking for pieces to help glam up your gown? Designs by 3 Jewels handmade creations are glam and versatile, perfect for any bride. The pieces are created with solid sterling silver, Swarovski crystals and natural stones. Designs by 3 Jewels jewelry adds the perfect touch of elegance without breaking the budget! Be sure to check out their line at designby3jewels.com

FUNCTION FACILITY P L A N N I N G

G U I D E

Grouped alphabetically by region: Worcester, East of Worcester, South of Worcester, West of Worcester and North of Worcester

Reception Facility

Types of Functions

Price Range

On-Site Catering

Package Plan Available

Min/Max Room Capacity

Ceremony Site

Number of Events (Held at one time)

Overnight Accommodations

E, B, D, W

Varies

Yes

250 Max

Yes

Worcester Beechwood Hotel (Back Cover) 363 Plantation St., Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 453-1112 • Fx: (508) 754-0731 sales@beechwoodhotel.com www.beechwoodhotel.com

Exchange vows in the authentic Victorian chapel, entertain guests on the terrace and dance the night away in the magnificent grand ballroom. Contact: Elizabeth Lane.

Mechanics Hall (47)

E, B, D, W

Varies

Yes

150/425

Yes

321 Main St., Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 752-5608 • Fx: (508) 754-8442 info@mechanicshall.org www.mechanicshall.org

Celebrate your wedding surrounded by historic Victorian elegance. Our spacious facilities accommodate intimate gatherings or grand celebrations. Contact: Sharon Onorato.

St. George Cathedral (34)

E, B, D, W

$75+

10/500

Yes

30 Anna St., Worcester, MA 01604 Ph: (508) 963-2141 Judy_Shaughnessy@yahoo.com www.Stgeorgeworcester.org

St. George Cathedral offers a quiet, convenient and affordable alternative, accommodating up to 500 guests with easy access to all major routes. Handicap accessible, air-conditioned. Contact: Judy Shaughnessy.

Worcester Art Museum (43)

E, B, D, W

55 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 793-4327 • Fx: (508) 798-5646 janicepotter@ worcesterart.org www.worcesterart.org

Magnificent architectural spaces abound in the expansive Renaissance Court for your historic event. Ceremonies are romantic in the Chapter House, Garden Courtyard or on the Grand Staircase. Contact: Janice Potter.

Varies

Yes

25/250

Yes

East of Worcester Charter Oak Country Club (19)

E, B, D, W

394 Chestnut St., Hudson, MA 01749 Ph: (978) 562-0800 • Fx: (978) 562-0198 sales@charteroakcc.com www.charteroakcc.com

$35 - $115

Experience a wedding of extraordinary elegance when you select Charter Oak Country Club. Our grand ballroom offers unsurpassed service and culinary excellence. Contact: Weddings at ext. 610.

DoubleTree Hotel (79)

E, B, D, W

$30 - $50

Yes

30/300

30/500

Yes

5400 Computer Drive, Westborough, MA 01581 Ph: (508) 616-7470 • Fx: (508) 366-3950 Oliver.knight@hilton.com www.bostonwestborough.doubletree.com

Experince the Doubletree difference where the little things mean everything. Schedule a private tour of our contemporary ballroom, outdoor patio and bridal rooms. Contact: Catering Sales Manager.

Holiday Inn Boxborough (94)

E, B, D, W

242 Adams Place, Boxborough, MA 01719 Ph: (978) 889-1712 • Fx: (978) 266-9429 www.boxboroughweddings.com

Stow Acres Country Club (39) 58 Randall Rd., Stow, MA 01775 Ph: (978) 568-1100 x107 • Fx: (978) 562-4573 kgiles@stowacres.com www.stowacres.com

$36 - $70

Yes

2/400

Yes

BRIDE&GROOM

Yes

In Boxborough lies a unique location for your extraordinary wedding. A convenient location that offers flexible wedding packages. Contact: Sales Office. E, B, D, W

$30 - $65

Yes

50/250

Yes

Our recently restored Victorian clubhouse features fireplaces, a large oak dance floor, and many windows. Enjoy cocktails on our wrap-around porch and brick patio. Contact: Karen Giles.

Types of Functions Offered: E - Engagement Parties B - Bridal Showers D - Rehearsal Dinners W - Wedding Receptions

100 Spring 2015

Reception Facility

Types of Functions

Price Range

On-Site Catering

Package Plan Available

Min/Max Room Capacity

Ceremony Site

(Held at one time)

Overnight Accommodations

E, B, W

Under $30 - $50

Yes

50/500

Yes

South of Worcester Arrowhead Acres (48)

Number of Events

92 Aldrich St. (Rte. 98), Uxbridge, MA 01569 Ph: (508) 278-5017 • Fx: (508) 278-3841 info@arrowheadacres.com www.arrowheadacres.com

An elegant Country Club style facility complete with “Chapel in the Pines,” decorative bridge, country stone wall locations and a beautiful fireplace for group photographs. Contact: David Morin.

Crystal Lake Golf Club (8)

E, B, D, W

Under $30

Yes

50/200

Yes

100 Broncos Highway, Burrillville, RI 02839 Ph: (401) 567-4500 x14 • Fx: (401) 567-5238 tracy@crystallakegolfclub.com www.crystallakegolfclub.com

Multiple wedding ceremony locations including lake-front pavilion and gazebo. Observation deck for cocktail reception available. Contact: Tracy Hill.

Coachmen’s Lodge (Inside Front Cover)

E, B, D, W

$30 - $50

Yes

240

Yes

273 Wrentham Rd., Bellingham, Ma 02019 Ph: (508) 883-9888 Thecoachmenslodge@gmail.com www.coachmenslodge.com

The Coachmen’s Lodge is the perfect venue for any type of event. From intimate showers to bridal event, inside or outside. Contact: Sarah Doolan.

Twin River

E, B, D, W

100 Twin River Rd., Lincoln, RI 02865 Ph: (401) 475-8438 • Fx: (401) 305-5188 dwing@twinriver.com www.twinriver.com

$30 - $75 +

Yes

50/1200

Yes

Twin River promises to create the wedding of a lifetime. Distinctively unique. Custom designed wedding packages and menus. Attention to detail. Ideal location. Contact: Donna Wing.

West of Worcester J. Anthony’s Italian Grill Function Facility (96) 206 Southbridge Rd, N. Oxford, MA Ph: (508) 832-9705 • Fx: (508) 832-7978 www.janthonysgrill.com

La Salle Reception Center (103)

E, B, D, W

Under $30

Yes

75/260

Yes

For 90+ people (in Café Room), included in the per-person price are: liner, cake cutting, setup/breakdown charges and the cost of serving two different meals. Contact: Arnold or Jason Villatico. E, B, D, W

$20 - $40

Yes

25/400

Yes

444 Main Street, Southbridge, MA 01550 Ph: (774) 318-8083 Margef911@aol.com Lasallereceptioncenter.com

La Salle Reception Center is noted for being simply elegant, affordable, easy to reach from all major highways with ample parking. Contact: Margaret Farrand.

Leicester Country Club (93)

E, B, D, W

$30 - $70

Yes

20/300

Yes

1430 Main St., P.O. Box 138, Leicester, MA 01524 Ph: (508) 892-1390 • Fx: (508) 892-1331 sales@leicestercc.com www.worcester-wedding.com

Two beautifully appointed function rooms lined with windows and outside decks that overlook a garden gazebo and picturesque New England covered bridge. Contact: Sales Office.

Old Sturbridge Village (76)

E, B, D, W

$50 - $75 +

Yes

Max 250

Yes

1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (800) SEE-1830 osvsales@osv.org www.osv.org

Let your future begin in our past! Step back in time for a wedding that will be truly timeless, unforgettable, historical–and all yours! Contact: Event Sales Dept.

Publick House (27)

E, B, D, W

On the Common, P.O. Box 187, Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (800) PUBLICK • Fx: (508) 347-3313 x286 sales@publickhouse.com www.publickhouse.com

Built in 1771, the Publick House Historic Inn maintains its 18th-century ambiance and warm hospitality. Outdoor tent and gazebo, old fashioned bake shoppe and beautiful grounds for picture taking. Contact: Catherine O’Brien.

Sturbridge Host Hotel (17)

E, B, D, W

366 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (508) 347-7393 • Fx: (508) 347-3824 info@sturbridgehosthotel.com www.sturbridgehosthotel.com

The Collection at Wight Farm (11)

$35 - $68

$57 - $102

Yes

Max 250

Max 350

Yes

Varies

Yes

Sturbridge Host Hotel features beautiful lakeside offerings, indoor garden terrace and elegant ballroom. Personal attention and delectable cuisine will dazzle you. Contact: Catering Sales office. E, B, D, W

Yes

40-175

Yes

420 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (774) 241-8450 info@T3Chefs.com www.T3Chefs.com

Table 3 Chefs & Catering can come to you or host your event at our beautiful post and beam facility. We also provide a personal chef for all types of events. Contact: Dakota Tunley.

The Harding Allen Estate (95)

E, B, D, W

Rte. 122 off Barre Common, Barre, MA 01005 Ph: (978) 355-4920 www.harding-allen.com

Yes

$35 - $70

Yes

275

Yes

Massachusetts’ premier wedding and banquet historic mansion–for when it has to be special. Contact: Grace Gugliotti.

Be sure to tell these advertisers you saw their ad in BRIDE&GROOM!

www.bridegroommag.com

101

Reception Facility

Types of Functions

Price Range

On-Site Catering

Package Plan Available

Min/Max Room Capacity

Ceremony Site

Number of Events (Held at one time)

Overnight Accommodations

E, B, D, W

$50 - $75+

Yes

50/300

Yes

North of Worcester Chocksett Inn (9) 59 Laurelwood Rd., Sterling, MA 01564 Ph: (978) 422-3355 • Fx: (978) 422-3187 weddings@chocksettinn.com www.chocksettinn.com

The Chocksett Inn offers on-site private gardens, Laurelwood Ballroom, canopied deck and 25 guest suites. Experience the charm, elegance and hospitality for an unforgettable wedding. Contact: Alicia Clayton.

Colonial Hotel (6)

E, B, D, W

$30 - $50

Yes

25/500

Yes

1-3

Yes

625 Betty Spring Rd., Gardner, MA 01440 Ph: (978) 630-2500 • Fx: (978) 632-0913 weddingsales@colonial-hotel.com www.colonial-hotel.com

Known to be the premier wedding facility in Central Massachusetts. All-inclusive packages make planning easy in our grand ballroom or courtyard tent. Contact: Mary Whitman.

DoubleTree by Hilton Leominster (35)

E, B, D, W

$30 - $50

Yes

1/500

Yes

99 Erdman Way, Leominster, MA 01453 Ph: (978) 534-9000 • Fx: (978) 466-3400 Kerry.Kirley@hilton.com www.leominsterdoubletree.com

Experience the most magical time of your life in our exquisite Grand Ballroom or beautiful garden pavillion. Call today to schedule a tour. Contact: Kerry Kirley.

Great Wolf Lodge (33)

E, B, D, W

$30 - $50

Yes

10/400

Yes

150 Great Wolf Drive Fitchburg, MA 01420 Ph: (978) 516-0139 newenglandsales@greatwolf.com greatwolf.com/meetings

Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect setting to start your new lives together. Our experienced staff will assist in creating the wedding of your dreams. Contact: Henry Tessman.

The Manor Restaurant Pub Banquet (23)

E, B, D, W

$35 - $100

Yes

25/400

Yes

1-3

42 West Boylston St., West Boylston, MA 01538 Ph: (508) 835-4722 • Fx: (508) 835-3893 info@ourmanor.com www.ourmanor.com

Whether you’re planning a lavish or an intimate wedding reception, The Manor can tailor suit the perfect wedding package for you. Contact: Andrea Rotolo.

The 1761 Old Mill Restaurant (83)

E, B, D, W

69 State Rd East Route 2A, Westminster, MA 01473 Ph: (978) 874-5941 • Fx: (978) 874-0914 1761oldmill@aol.com www.1761oldmill.com

The 1761 Old Mill offers the best of New England hospitality and charm. Our picturesque setting is the perfect location for your wedding, rehearsal dinner or shower. Contact: Jay Foster.

Shaker Hills Country Club (15)

E, B, D, W

146 Shaker Rd., Harvard, MA 01451 Ph: (978)772-3330 ext. 307 joann@shakerhills.com www.shakerhills.com

Spring Hill Suites & Devens Common Center (13)

Under $30

Varies

Yes

10/150

50/350

Yes

A blend of beautiful indoor and outdoor space. Ballroom and cocktail lounge with center fireplace. Stunning top decks overlook the velvet green golf course and 200 acres of natural setting. Contact: JoAnn Upham. E, B, D, W

$30 - $50

Yes

5/500

Yes

31 Andrews Parkway, Devens, MA 01434 Ph: (978) 757-3003 • Fx: (978) 772-4903 socialsalesdevens@truenorthhotels.com www.devenscommoncenter.com

Discover your dreams in Devens. Marriott Wedding Planner, accommodating menus and outstanding service at a NEW stylish venue and hotel. Call for package details. Contact: Sales Office.

Sterling National Country Club (65)

E, B, D, W

Varies

Yes

40/225

Yes

33 Albright Rd., Sterling, MA 01564 Ph: (978) 422-0275 Melissap@sterlingcc.com www.sterlingcc.com

A picturesque setting, beautiful Ballroom and stunning area for outdoor ceremonies along with first-class cuisine and a professional staff to ensure dreams come true. Contact: Sales Office.

Wachusett Country Club (91)

E, B, D, W

$30 - $50

Yes

50/400

Yes

187 Prospect St., West Boylston, MA 01583 Ph: (508) 835-4484 x223 Caracullen@aol.com www.wachusettcc.com

Simply elegant and affordable. Exceeding brides’ expectations since 1939. Two beautifully appointed reception rooms with cocktails areas and outdoor deck overlooking Wachusett Reservoir and beyond. Contact: Cara Cullen.

Wachusett Mountain (5)

E, B, D, W

$30- $50

Yes

300 Max

Yes

499 Mountain Rd., Princeton, MA 01541 Ph: (978) 464-3175 • Fx: (978) 464-3185 missy@wachusett.com www.wachusett.com

Surrounded by magical and breathtaking vistas, the ideal wedding location. From ceremonies to receptions, our attentive staff is dedicated to serving you. Off-weekend discounts available. Contact: Melissa Banks.

Wachusett Village Inn (49)

E, B, D, W

9 Village Inn Rd., Westminster, MA Ph: (978) 571-2502 • Fx: (978) 422-3187 tianna@wachusettvillageinn.com www.wachusettvillageinn.com

$42 - $60

Yes

10/400

Yes

BRIDE&GROOM

Yes

Design your destination wedding weekend! Full service with salon and spa services. Contact: Tianna Dionne.

Types of Functions Offered: E - Engagement Parties B - Bridal Showers D - Rehearsal Dinners W - Wedding Receptions

102 Spring 2015

Wedding

Crown Bakery (83)

BEAUTY

Gold Star Blvd., Worcester, MA 01604 (508) 852-0746 www.thecrownbakery.com

Beauty in Motion (93) (508) 450-8707 brittanymcglone@yahoo.com www.abbeautyinmotion.com

isabellawrence.com

Beauty

104

Bridal Shops

104

Bridal Shows

104

Cakes

104

Catering

104

Donation Services

104

Entertainment

105

Fitness

105

Florists

105

Honeymoon Spots

105

Jewelry

105

Limousines

105

We are a team of licensed hair and makeup artists who bring the salon to you! Specializing in up-do’s, airbrush makeup, eyelashes, extensions and more! 290 Turnpike Road Westborough, MA 01581 (774) 512-0095 Terri.Radley@waxcenter.com Waxcenter.com

Custom Wedding Cakes by Penny Eagleton

Prepare to strut, glow, and feel fabulous. We believe luxurious waxing is for everyone who wants gorgeous skin, whenever they desire.

NKD Waxing, Lashes & Makeup (34) 12 Portland Street Worcester, MA 01608 (508) 581-0881 kristielee@nkdworcester.com www.nkdworcester.com Make your day picture perfect, with experts that help with decisions such as, hi-def or airbrush makeup and lashes that last a day or weeks!

Auburn, MA (508) 832-3814 www.customweddingcakesbypenny.com Beautiful cakes! Gourmet flavors including the original awardwinning “Kahlua Cookie Cake.” For personalized service and free delivery in Worcester area, call Penny.

CATERING Buggy Whip Catering 343 Providence Road, South Grafton, MA 01560 (508) 839-3458 www.buggywhipcatering.com The Buggy Whip Catering Service has been serving traditional American fair to brides and grooms in Worcester and surrounding counties since 1953.

BRIDAL SHOPS Bella’s Bridal Boutique (48) Picadilly Plaza, 490 Shrewsbury St., Worcester, MA (508) 753-4426 www.bellasbridalgowns.com

DONATION SERVICES 1133 19th St. NW, 9th Floor, Washington, DC 20036 info@idofoundation.org www.idofoundation.org

106

Photography

106

BRIDAL SHOWS The Original Wedding Expo (78) ™

Reception Facilities

100

Rentals

106

Shoes

106

Specialty Lighting

106

CAKES

Tuxedos

106

Aunty Ellen’s Creative Confections (4)

Videography

106

BRIDE&GROOM

Culpepper’s Bakery A quality cake you will be proud to serve. Full line of cookie and pastry trays also available.

Photo Booths

104 Spring 2015

Let Crown Bakery create the wedding of your dreams with your own distinctive wedding cake. Specializing in party pastries, cookie trays and cake ornaments. 500 Cambridge St., Worcester, MA 01610 (508) 755-8393

European Wax Center (87)

Bella’s Bridal Boutique is the leading full-service bridal salon in Worcester County, offering the best selection of bridal, bridesmaids, mothers, flowergirls and prom gowns.

Wedding Internet Services 106

resources

334 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 770-0092 info@originalweddingexpo.com www.originalweddingexpo.com Since 1978, The Original Wedding Expo™ has been the area’s longest running and most respected bridal show.

16 Central St., Leominster, MA 01453 (978) 537-5675 emf0605@verizon.net www.AuntyEllensCakes.com From elegant wedding cakes to whimsical birthday, anniversary, bridal and baby shower cakes. We also have cookie and pastry platters, and decadent desserts for any occasion.

I Do Foundation (94)

From charitable favors to registries that give back, we give couples the opportunity to celebrate generously by supporting the charity of their choice on their wedding day.

Joslin Diabetes Center 1 Joslin Place, Development Office Boston, MA 02215 (617) 732-2412 catherine.marinello@joslin.harvard.edu www.joslin.org Consider making a charitable donation to Joslin Diabetes Center in lieu of party favors and receive cards personalized by you for your guests!

Rachel’s Table 633 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA 01609 (508) 799-7699 Brides, donate your excess food from your banquet to families at a local homeless shelter. Rachel’s Table will deliver for you.

Why Me, Inc. 1152 Pleasant St., Worcester, MA 01602 (508) 757-7734 www.whyme.org Why Me & Sherry’s House provides Central New England families with emotional and financial assistance, helping to alleviate the pain and isolation of childhood cancer.

Worcester County Food Bank 474 Boston Tpke., Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 842-FOOD (3663) The Worcester County Food Bank distributes almost 4 million pounds of food to nearly 300 local shelters, food pantries, soup kitchens, etc. in 60+ communities.

ENTERTAINMENT A Touch of Class DJ’s 318 Stearns Rd Marlborough, MA 01752 (508) 229-0009 (800) 480-3200 info@atocweddings.com Atocweddings.com Paramount quality in entertainment through nationally award-winning, TALENTED entertainers, custom computer sound systems, and unsurpassed client services. Best of Weddings & Couples Choice Award!

Buddy D. Sound Unlimited (81) P.O. Box 1612, Woonsocket, RI 02895 (401) 765-1240 djbuddyd@djbuddyd.com www.djbuddyd.com Professional Disc Jockey Service, reverend services, picture slide show presentations, Up-lighting, 32 years wedding experience, latest in audio and lighting, superior rates.

Festive Events (77) 260 Long Pond Rd., Plymouth, MA 02360 (800) 370-8863 davelong@festiveevents.com www.festiveevents.com Festive Events believes that every wedding is special and unique. Our approach is designed to assist you in planning your perfect wedding.

Wedding DJ Specialist Brian Fligg (82) Fitchburg, MA (978) 345-1354 brian@sonicdj.com www.brianfligg.com Fun, modern wedding entertainment featuring photo booths, architectural lighting, custom music edits, your name in spotlight, instant photo slideshows, live video and everything needed to make your friends jealous.

FITNESS Worcester Fitness (92) 440 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605 (508) 852-8209 St. Vincent Hospital, Worcester, MA 01608 (508) 363-7000 www.worcesterfitness.com Personal training sessions for you. Small group personal training for you and your bridal party. Customized wedding prep. training programs that combine fun AND fitness.

FLORISTS

HONEYMOON SPOTS

Herbert E. Berg Florist

MEGA Divi & Tamarijn (99)

19 Blackstone River Rd., Worcester, MA 01607 (508) 755-5888, (800) 383-2374 www.bergflorist.com

Oranjestad, Aruba (800) 554-2008 www.diviaruba.com

Herbert E. Berg offers personalized floral designs and superior service. Come in and take advantage of our 75th anniversary specials!

MEGA means more all-inclusive choices! With the Divi Aruba or the Tamarijn Aruba’s Deluxe ocean-front MEGA category, you’ll have full use of both resorts.

Mugford’s Flowers Shoppe 8 Warburton Lane Rte. 30, Westboro, MA 01581 (508) 836-5554 Mugfordsflowers@gmail.com www.mugfordsflowers.com www.mugfords.com Simple, elegant, extraordinary. From your engagement party to your wedding day; from your first anniversary to your 50th, we make your floral dreams come true.

Perro’s Flowers (46) 284 Grafton St., Worcester, MA 01604 (508) 755-7744, (800) 832-7744 weddings@perrosflowers.com www.perrosflowers.com By combining simply elegant floral designs and the experience of our staff, Perro’s provides flowers for events that showcase the bride’s individuality.

JEWELRY Maria’s Fine Jewelry (3) 269 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01604 (508) 795-0201 maria@mariasfinejewelry.com www.mariasfinejewelry.com We are a 26-year-old family owned business serving Worcester county with expert jewelry design and quality craftsmanship.

LIMOUSINES Gray’s Limousine (97) P.O. Box 760, Boylston, MA 01505 (508) 869-3111, (508) 869-6365 www.grayslimo.com Specializing in weddings, bachelor and bachelorette parties and airport transportation. Featuring Rolls Royces and other passenger limousines with uniformed chauffeurs. Visit our showroom.

www.bridegroommag.com

105

Men’s Wearhouse (IBC)

PHOTO BOOTHS

www.mwtux.com

MA Photo Booths (82)

With over 1,000 locations nationwide, including all Men’s Wearhouse stores, ordering, picking up and returning a tuxedo has never been easier.

Fitchburg, MA (978) 345-1354 brian@maphotobooths.com www.maphotobooths.com

VIDEOGRAPHY

Fun, unique, and productive! Photo booths produce creative guest sign-in books and instant party favors. Packages include everything you’d want at an affordable price.

AVR Photography & Video 92 Chelmsford Rd., Chelmsford, MA 01824 (978) 250-8117 info@avrphotography.com www.avrphotography.com

PHOTOGRAPHY AVR Photography & Video

AVR Photography & Video has been serving New England since 1986. AVR’s goal is to provide you with high quality products at very competitive prices.

92 Chelmsford Rd., Chelmsford, MA 01824 (978) 250-8117 info@avrphotography.com www.avrphotography.com

WEDDING INTERNET SERVICES

AVR Photography & Video has been serving New England since 1986. AVR’s goal is to provide you with high quality products at very competitive prices.

BrideGroomMag.com

BRIDE&GROOM™ Magazine’s official website! Log on for sneak peeks at upcoming issues and to find out where to get your free copy.

Kristin Griffin Photography Po Box 84 Halifax, MA 02338 508) 320-2670 Kristin@kristingriffinphotography.com www.kristingriffinphotography.com Creative and personalized photographs are an investment you make in the memory of your wedding. Trust your day to an award-winning photographer. Photojournalist, artistic, memorable.

Leslie Boudreau Photography (10) Lunenburg, MA 01462 (987) 400-6598 Leslie@leslieboudreau.com www.leslieboudreau.com

SHOES Shoes to Dye For (31) 1400 Worcester Street (Route 9, Eastbound side) Natick, MA 01760 (508) 653-6063 dyeable@aol.com www.shoestodyefor.com

Your connection to finding the best Wedding Expos. Buy discounted tickets online. Comprehensive Planning Guide features everything from bridal shops to videographers.

WedAlert.com

WedAlert.com’s mission is to match the local Bride & Groom with wedding professionals in their area, saving the couple valuable time and money with their wedding plans.

Over 180 styles in stock of bridal dyeable and evening shoes. Custom dyeing on premises. Designers: Kenneth Cole, Nina, Dyeables, Coloriffics, Touch-Ups, Colorful Creations and Grace.

Relive the moments of your once-in-a-lifetime day for years to come with Leslie Boudreau Photography. Timeless and simple. Yours.

Robinson Wedding Photography (69) 1033 Providence Road, Whitinsville, MA 01588 (508) 278-5530 psrstudio@verizon.net www.robinsonweddingphotography.com Since 1996, Paul offers you both traditional and photojournalistic styles capturing stunning, one-of-a-kind moments with award winning experience and attention to detail.

RECEPTION FACILITIES (see page 100)

RENTALS Ambiance Linens & Print Design (95) 42 Cricket Drive, Sturbridge, MA 01566 (508) 347-6430 Peggy@ambiancelinensonline.com www.ambiancelinensonline.com Take your event from ordinary to extraordinary with our specialty linens and custom designed menus. All rentals come with complimentary design consultation.

Elegant Linens Ltd. 296 Providence Rd., S. Grafton, MA (508) 839-9332 www.elegantlinensltd.com If you’re planning a wedding, call Elegant Linens today for an appointment. See the difference our special touch can make for your special day.

106 Spring 2015

OriginalWeddingExpo.com (78)

BRIDE&GROOM

SPECIALTY LIGHTING Festive Events (77) 260 Long Pond Rd., Plymouth, MA 02360 (800) 370-8863 davelong@festiveevents.com www.festiveevents.com Festive Events believes that every wedding is special and unique. Our approach is designed to assist you in planning your perfect wedding.

TUXEDOS Bonardi’s Formalwear (73) WEDDING SPECIALISTS Worcester: 179 Highland St., (508) 754-4036 Auburn: 482 Southbridge St., (508) 832-7579 Sturbridge: Rte. 20 West, (508) 347-3461 Milford: 156 Main St., (508) 478-0466 Framingham: 1261 Worcester Rd., (508) 875-6159 Nationwide Service call (800) 752-4036 www.bonardis.com Dressing men for social occasions since 1923. Sizes infant to 71 in stock! We take the worry out of looking your best on your wedding day.

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