Spring 2018
A Royal Wedding of Your Very Own
Magazine
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Beautifully manicured grounds perfect for wedding ceremonies. • Featuring three newly renovated function rooms that can accommodate 35 to 240 guests. • Prime 2018 & 2019 dates available • Call for a private tour
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Discover our newly appointed indoor atrium and gazebo. Say “I Do” in our beautiful Courtyard with an outdoor wedding feel.
242 Adams Place • Boxboro, MA 01719 978.889.1711 • Boxboroweddings.com
12 Follow Your Brunch Hunch Enjoy your favorites morning, noon, and night. 30 Flower Girl Fashion Fashion trends for the little ones. 34 Distinctive Designs Brides ring in the era of self-expression. angelaryanphotography.com
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Spring 2018
38 Purple Reigns in the Wedding World Pantone color of the year.
Contents
FEATURES
44 Classic Cocktail Comeback Timeless libations for every season. 48 Our Great Big Barn Wedding Exchanging vows under post & beam. 54 Pretty and Sophisticated How to work the plant-based trend
into your menu.
58 What’s Cooking? Great gifts and gadgets for the foodie couple.
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74 A Royal Wedding of Your Very Own How to plan a British bash. 80 Gorgeous Green The Greenery trend is still going strong
for 2018.
84 Bridal Buzz Latest news and happenings.
FEATURED VENUES 62 The Asa Waters Mansion 68 The Beechwood Hotel
IN EVERY ISSUE
Nearby Nuptials
18 Jodi & Michael 26 Meghan & Kevin
DIRECTORIES 92 Function Facility Guide 96 Wedding Resources Guide
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™
Publishers Richard E. Chevalier Germaine A. Chevalier President Robert R. Chevalier robert@chevalierassociates.com
Account Executive Chrissy Carelli
chrissy@chevalierassociates.com
Website and Digital Media Manager Lyndsay Hommé lyndsay@chevalierassociates.com
General Manager K.C. O’Brien
kc@chevalierassociates.com
Art Director Rick Bridges
richardbridgesdesign.com
The Two of You Are Perfectly Matched... Now let’s get him perfectly dressed! Visit our store and we will help you find the perfect look. Rent Purchase. Visitorour store and we will
help you find the perfect look. Rent or Purchase.
Call for your preview appointment
800.752.4036 Call for your preview appointment Worcester ✦ Auburn
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Worcester • Sturbridge • Milford • Auburn www.bonardis.com www.bonardis.com 8 Spring 2018
BRIDE&GROOM
Contributing Writers Stacey Marcus Connie Jeske Crane Emily Marcus Cindy Papish Gerber Jennifer McNally Monac
BRIDE & GROOM™ Magazine is published in January, May and September and is a trademark of and published by:
334 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 Phone: (508) 770-0092 Fax: (508) 770-0065 bridegroommag.com All content ©2018, CHEVALIER ASSOCIATES, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED PRINTED IN USA
Follow Your Brunch Hunch
Enjoy Your Favorites Morning, Noon, and Night
L
by Stacey Marcus
ooking for a fun twist to your wedding menu? Why not share your fetish for French toast or celebrate your passion for pancakes? Couples are adding brunch items to their wedding menus no matter the time of day. “Brunch is interactive and colorful. Donut bars, loose-leaf tea bars, and champagne are great choices for casual and creative wedding celebrations,� adds Elaine Twombly of the Catered Affair in Hingham.
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At the Kimpton Marlowe Hotel in Cambridge, director of catering Nicola Dresser says, “Brunch items are a great crowd pleaser with endless options, whether as a late-night snack to keep guests dancing or as an unexpected treat for a daytime wedding. Tartines are a great way to pack a flavorful punch! They pair easily with sweet or savory brunch items—a sweet tartine with fluffy scrambled eggs or a savory tartine with a delicate, buttery pastry. We give couples the ability to be adventurous and create their own tartine with our chef to reflect their own personal style and tastes. This is also a nice change from the all-so-popular avocado toast. When planning an afternoon soiree, all that’s left to add are fun and festive cocktails!” notes Dresser.
thecateredaffair.com
“Donut bars, loose-leaf tea bars, and champagne are great choices for casual and creative wedding celebrations.” Emma Roberts of Capers Catering has a smorgasbord of brunch offerings for weddings. “I think couples are drawn towards brunch options when they want a more casual and relaxed reception. Everyone loves brunch food, and there’s such a wide variety of fun items to choose from…crepe bars, top-your-own waffle bars, bagel bars, cold-pressed juice bars, omelet stations, top-your-own bloody mary or mimosa bars, to name just a few,” says Roberts. Fun and funky selections are just what make wedding menus special. “Couples are adding a unique twist to their wedding receptions by including classic breakfast and brunch items such as French toast with fresh fruit, whipped cream and Vermont maple syrup to their dinner menu. Many couples have also taken a liking to having an omelet station available for their guests. continued on page 14 www.bridegroommag.com
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meredithjanephoto.com
These quirky menu selections really make weddings stand out,” says events manager Nancy Mascera of Avenue in Long Branch, NJ. Nicole Mattiello of Pranzi Catering and Events notes that donuts are a fun and trendy way to sweeten your wedding. “Make a beautiful donut tower wedding cake, include them in your dessert display, or use them as favors that guests can enjoy the following day! Who doesn’t love a delicious donut? They are so flavorful, and many donut shops and caterers will even customize donut flavors to coordinate with your event theme,” says Mattiello.
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“Everyone loves brunch food, and there’s such a wide variety of fun items to choose from.” Nancy Batista-Caswell, proprietor of Oak + Rowan in Fort Point, says the team loves to create the exact experience couples are looking to achieve for their guests. “For couples looking to serve brunch not just during the day, but also into the evening, we offer stationary/passed items such as ham and whipped ricotta tartines with kumquat and fig on our house-baked bread, along with buffet/sit-down selections such as vegetable frittata, eggs Florentine, and French toast. Bloody marys, mimosas, and a selection of wines and beers are also available,” says Batista-Caswell. As you can see, opting for a brunch-inspired menu is so much more than your classic “breakfast-for-dinner” meal. Brunch foods combine comfort and fun with a sense of adventure and decadence.
thecateredaffair.com
Stacey Marcus is a freelance writer based in Marblehead.
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Jodi and Michael Mota September 4, 2016 Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Providence, Rhode Island Reception: Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, MA
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dbphotori.com
Jodi Ricci worked as Michael Mota’s assistant at a large marketing company in Rhode Island. It would be an understatement to say that they enjoyed working together. The two of them became best friends and wanted to spend every second together. Jodi was the captain of the New England Patriots Cheerleaders, and the team was in the Dominican Republic on their annual swimsuit calendar trip. The couple had been dating for a couple of years at that time. Michael decided that it was time to propose, so he surprised Jodi by flying down with a yellow canary diamond. The entire squad looked on as Michael got down on one knee and popped the question.
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Michael and Jodi gave themselves a year to plan the wedding. The first event of the wedding was an engagement photo session at Walt Disney World. The couple chose to have the reception at Gillette Stadium because of Jodi’s involvement with the Patriots, and because they had lots of great memories there. They wanted an over-the-top wedding and Gillette is truly a grand location. Excitement remained high during the planning process. In fact, when they were having the food tasting at the stadium, Michael fainted in Tom Brady’s suite.
On the big day, September 4, 2016, they had a beautiful ceremony at the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul in Providence.
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And then the fun really began‌ A live video streamed on the jumbotron as the newlyweds took the field at Gillette Stadium, entering through the inflatable helmet arch as they were announced over the loudspeaker.
Optum Field Lounge was transformed into a fairytale locale with thousands of pale yellow garden roses, white hydrangeas, candlelight, beautiful linens, chandeliers, and white fabrics. The six-tier cake was covered in roses as well. Fairytale accents included Alice in Wonderland chairs for the bride and groom. Guests were served a three-course dinner, and the band Radiance played all night long. To keep the party going, a Game Day Buffet was rolled out at 11:00 pm. A large fiber optic tree was placed in the middle of the dessert room where guests could help themselves to treats at the candy bar, as well as hundreds of mini pastries and Italian cookies. One of the highlights of the reception was when the Patriots Cheerleaders performed for the groom.
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The best advice Jodi and Michael have to give to a bride and groom is to enjoy the planning process and the days leading up to the wedding. Even though it may be stressful at times, it’s one of the most exciting events you will ever plan in your life.
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Meghan and Kevin Olson September 23, 2017 Sterling National Country Club
Photographer: Meghan-Rose Photography meghan-rose.com
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Kevin and I met through mutual friends on Facebook. Kevin trekked over one afternoon during a snowstorm in December 2013 to plow out the house where I lived. He asked me to take a ride with him and we spent the next five hours riding around in the snow. I knew he was the one almost immediately but there could be no doubt when, in 2014, my dad had a heart attack and was diagnosed with esophageal cancer shortly thereafter. Throughout this ordeal, Kevin was my rock, my shoulder to cry on, and my best friend. After my dad passed away in June 2015, Kevin asked my mother and went to the cemetery to ask my dad for permission to marry me. Kevin had been given his mother’s engagement ring, and my mom gave him a ring from my dad, so he had a new ring made combining the two. On the Saturday after Thanksgiving, my brother had a bonfire in his yard, and about thirty of our closest friends were there. At one point, my brother got up to make a speech, thanking everyone for their love and support during our dad’s illness. When he finished his speech, he turned it over to Kevin and the bright lights came on. Suddenly Kevin was on one knee with ring in hand. Naturally, I said yes! My brother set off some fireworks and everyone cheered.
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We started planning right away and set a date far enough in advance so we would have time to save and have everything we hoped for. I knew that I wanted a rustic country feel, and I wanted everyone to be comfortable and to have a great time. I wanted a party!
We looked around at venues and nothing caught my eye until we came up the driveway to the Sterling National Country Club. One look at their grounds—the gazebo and water features, the ballroom, the bridal suite—and I knew it was where I wanted to say “I do.” Everyone there, from Jeff, the general manager down to the wait staff, made it so easy. When we went to the tasting, it was difficult to decide because everything was amazing. We ended up offering chicken chausseur and pork tenderloin with an eggplant vegetarian option. It was all cooked and served to perfection. My first purchase after setting the wedding date was my wedding gown. I went to Marry and Tux in Nashua, NH, and I only had to try on three gowns before I found the one I wanted—an ivory strapless Cara Mia lace ball gown with a corset and medium-length train. Before having my gown altered, I had two hearts cut out of my dad’s favorite blue shirt and asked the seamstress to cover them in lace from my grandmother’s wedding gown. She sewed one of the hearts to my train where it was visible the whole day; I put the other one inside my dress to keep next to my heart.
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For the centerpieces, I filled pint mason jars with fairy lights and wrapped jute around the covers and filled quart mason jars with blue hydrangeas and baby’s breath. We painted the table numbers on 7” lengths of trees, which had the tops cut at an angle. The trees were from the woods where Kevin grew up, which happened to be the land was in my dad’s family for almost 100 years, so my dad grew up there, too. I originally wanted lace and burlap table runners, but Jeff proposed round mirrors instead, which pulled it all together and looked amazing. For the favors, we ordered cozies and had chocolates made by Stewart’s Chocolates in Holden in the shape of cowboy boots. We found the bridesmaids’ dresses at David’s Bridal. The long, navy blue dresses had lace at the top and a slit up the front which showed off the cowboy boots. I carried a bouquet of sunflowers, wheat, and greens wrapped in burlap, and my maid of honor and my bridesmaids carried smaller versions of my bouquet. The flower girl wore a lace and tulle navy blue dress with cowgirl boots and carried a tiny version of our bouquets. The men wore sand colored vests with ivory shirts and navy blue ties from Bonardi’s Formal Wear in Worcester. All the men wore dark blue jeans and cowboy boots. We decorated the gazebo with sunflowers, and hung mason jars with sunflowers from the aisle chairs every fourth row. We had water bottles with personalized event labels—a great call since it is was sunny and almost 90 degrees that day. Two local craftspeople made me a beautiful wooden sign for the seat where my dad would have sat. We also set up a “memory” table in the bar area where we displayed photos from the weddings of our grandparents and great-grandparents, as well as a photo of my late uncle. Our cake was made by Elena at Baked in Holden. We had four tiers with carrot, red velvet, chocolate, and vanilla cake. Each layer was wrapped with lace and burlap, and there was a willow tree figurine on top. We had a DJ and a videographer and photographer. The whole day was a continual series of happy memories; there’s not one thing I would change. Sterling National Country Club was a great choice because it was convenient for all our guests to have everything in one place. The staff members were incredibly accommodating, friendly, and eager to please, which left me with the feeling that nothing less than perfect was acceptable. The only advice that I would give to future couples is to make sure to give yourself enough time to plan exactly what you want. Two years seemed like a long time at first, but the time just flew by.
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Flower Girl Fashion
by Stacey Marcus
Now that you’ve chosen the cherubs for your bridal party, how do you decide what they will wear? We asked Lindsey Bennett, lead designer for Azazie, an online bridal boutique, for her thoughts on flower girl fashion trends. Read on for some great insight on how to dress the little darlings. 30 Spring 2018
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B&G: How have the styles changed over the last few years? LB: Flower girls’ dresses haven’t changed drastically over the past few years, but we have seen some slight updates to modernize the look and correspond to updated bridal and bridal party dress trends. Waterfall skirts and illusion necklines and hemlines have emerged, while interesting back designs—keyhole, crisscross straps—are also being incorporated for a fresh feel. Cascading or tiered ruffles are another way to add a delicate touch to a flower girl’s dress, tying back to a popular bridal party trend. As far as sleeves, capped, sleeveless, and short-sleeves are still prevalent, but spaghetti straps are growing in popularity in keeping with bridesmaid styles. B&G: What are the colors that are trending today? LB: Flower girl dresses are typically white or ivory with a hint of color to fit the color scheme of the wedding. Some brides opt to have their flower girls wear the same shade as their bridesmaids. Popular bridal party colors for spring include metallics and shades of green, as well as “dusty” colors in shades such as blue, rose, and sage, which serve as the perfect complement to these hues. The venue will also impact the color selection. An outdoor wedding looks great highlighting the green tones of the surroundings, whereas a beach wedding can look romantic using soft, muted earth tones such as champagne or sky blue. Another staple that looks great on kids is pastel. You can never go wrong with a lighter shade of the bridesmaids’ dress color. B&G: How should the flower girl dresses complement bridesmaids dresses? LB: An effortless and beautiful way for flower girl dresses to complement bridesmaids gowns is to incorporate the chosen color into the little girl’s dress on a smaller scale. Whether it’s a sash around the waist, a bow in the hair, or the hue of the little girl’s shoes or flowers, a pop of
alisonwhitephotography.com
“An outdoor wedding looks great highlighting the green tones of the surroundings, whereas a beach wedding can look romantic using soft, muted earth tones such as champagne or sky blue.”
continued on page 32 www.bridegroommag.com
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color mapping back to the wedding color scheme creates a beautiful visual for the big day. Brides might also consider having the flower girl wear a small corsage to correspond to the wedding color scheme as a subtle yet sweet way to create a cohesive look. If bridesmaids are wearing a sequin gown or a style with sparkling embellishments, flower girls could be adorned with a shimmering tiara or embellished sash. Flower girls should always be included in the theme, while making their own ageappropriate style statement. B&G: What are the fabrics we will be seeing? LB: For flower girls, it’s important to consider fabrics that won’t wrinkle or easily tear. For that reason, a headto-toe silk dress is not ideal, while tulle makes for a fun skirt fabric.
alisonwhitephotography.com
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alisonwhitephotography.com
Layering it with cotton, lace, or silk on the top makes for a beautiful combination. Textured lace is also rising in popularity, offering additional dimension to dresses. Of course, comfort is also key, so itchy fabrics should be avoided. Little girls can get restless during the ceremony, and having a flower girl tugging at her attire can be a distraction when all eyes should be on the happy couple. Season and location should also be factored in, as a beach wedding will call for a more ethereal, casual fabric, whereas a formal function at a fancier venue might call for a princess/ball gown silhouette in more structured fabric. B&G: Any advice on avoiding the common pitfalls of outfitting a flower girl? LB: I think the best advice to avoid the pitfalls is to make sure your flower girl is comfortable. While it can be tempting to put these cute little ladies in an outfit mimicking the adults, with all the bells and whistles, we need to remember that they’re still kids. If they’re not comfortable, the ceremony may suffer. Avoid high
heels and stick to flats for comfort; consider straps instead of a strapless gown to avoid fussing; opt for a tea-length dress instead of floor-length to avoid tripping; try not to overdo the accessories and instead give them one or two accents that will still make them feel like a princess; and most importantly, ensure that their
dress allows them to move easily so that they can enjoy the party alongside everyone else for the duration of the wedding. Stacey Marcus is a freelance writer based in Marblehead.
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Distinctive Designs Brides Ring in an Era of Self-Expression by Stacey Marcus
True Colors
can elevate a traditional setting to an entirely new level. While diamonds are always in vogue for engagement rings, millennials are also opting for nontraditional stones, such as colorchanging alexandrite, beautiful tanzanite, black opal, and even aquamarine. We are in an age when anything goes, and brides are embracing the idea of individuality and self-expression!” says Jordan Fine, CEO of JFINE.
“Brides today want to be unique and they don’t mind taking chances with colors, settings, and stones. When it comes to choosing an engagement ring, natural pink, blue, and even green diamonds are trending. These precious and rare diamonds originate from only a few mines in the world, and they
Kathryn Money, vice president of strategy and merchandising at Brilliant Earth agrees: “Customers are seeking products that express their individuality and are increasingly drawn towards uniqueness. They want a ring that isn’t like everyone else’s, which we’re seeing manifested in many different ways, such
Diamond rings have been sporting the hands of newly engaged women since ancient times. In the mid 1940s, DeBeers revived the ritual with its famous “Diamonds Are Forever” campaign. Today’s brides are blazing new trails by selecting nontraditional wedding rings that express their individual style.
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as choosing a distinctive ring setting, using colored gemstones in lieu of a diamond, using a fancy (non-round) diamond, or opting for rose gold.” Money adds that 16% of respondents in a recent survey they conducted favored a colored gemstone engagement ring over a diamond. “Brides are increasingly gravitating towards colored gemstone rings, including sapphires in a range of hues, emerald, morganite, and aquamarine as a way to create a distinctive, stylish statement that can also hold personal meaning. Morganite gemstones set in rose gold settings are definitely trending!” says Money.
Insuring Your Ring Are the rules different for insuring a nontraditional wedding ring? We asked Janece White, senior vice president at Chubb Personal Risk Services. “For starters, when selecting your forever ring, be careful you understand the durability of your selection. For example, it’s understood that a diamond is the hardest substance on the planet and can take everyday ware with little concern. However, that is not the case with other gem choices. Second, select a reputable jeweler who can explain how to take care of your ring, assure you of its actual origin, and provide authentication of your chosen stone. With diamonds, it’s fairly common to get a diamond certificate, but that is not the case with other gemstones. Last, but not least, make sure you insure your purchase for its replacement value. After going through all of the trouble to find the perfect ring, you want to make sure you can replace it if something unfortunate happens,” notes White.
1.97 carat fancy light-yellowish green diamond surrounded by Argyle pink melee and set in 18K gold.
Behold these eight exquisite engagement rings: Argyle Origins ring with 2.02 carat oval fancy intense purplish-pink diamond surrounded by Argyle pink diamonds and white diamonds and set in platinum.
JFINE 3.64 carat Natural Australian Black Opal. 1.12 carat fancy orangy-yellow marquise, 1.59 carat Argyle blue diamonds and .01 Argyle pink diamonds set in platinum and pink gold.
Three-stone ring with 1.63 carat fancy gray diamond and .40 carat fancy purplish-pink diamonds set in Argyle pink diamonds. continued on page 36 www.bridegroommag.com
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Brilliant Earth Windsor Ring Lyrical shapes scattered with shimmering diamonds form a halo around a glistening center morganite gemstone in this unique engagement ring. Morganite has been increasing in popularity due to its romantic “millennial pink” hue that pairs perfectly with trendy rose gold.
Lotus Flower Ring A subtle floral diamond halo blooms around a center oval sapphire in this exquisite engagement ring. The deep royal blue gemstone exudes a regal feel, while the oval shape gives the ring a sense of elegance.
Cambria Ring This glittering halo setting features delicate pavé diamonds that encircle a vibrant yellow round sapphire and adorn the band. An open gallery makes this ring light and feminine for a truly special look.
Lena Ring A cushion-cut emerald is the main attraction of this 18K yellow gold ring. Emeralds have historically known for their radiant hue. In fact, the color was named Pantone’s Color of the Year in 2013 for that very reason.
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Beyond All Expectations
chriskeeleyphoto.com
A wedding at The Manor is the ultimate marriage of elegance and romance. We will help you plan an intimate reception or a grand wedding in one of our beautifully appointed rooms. All you have to do is find the love of your life... we’ll take care of the rest!
42 West Boylston Street West Boylston, MA 01583 Ourmanor.com Andrea@ourmanor.com
angelaryanphotography.com
Purple Reigns in the Wedding World by Stacey Marcus
Purple lovers will delight in the plethora of ways the color is being celebrated this year, thanks to the Pantone Color Institute naming Ultra Violet its Color of the Year for 2018. For those of you not familiar with the ritual, Pantone has been declaring a color of the year since 2000. “Ultra Violet is a magical color for weddings,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. She notes the color’s inferences to mystery and intrigue and the dynamic fusion of red and blue as the perfect pairing to inspire a couple to be open to the potential in their new worlds together.
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Tablescapes and Takeaways “At ForYourParty.com, we love to help our couples include trending colors and designs in their wedding, and one of this year’s hot shades is definitely Pantone’s Color of the Year, Ultra Violet. With an assortment of darling purple products and print options, brides can add a touch of the fun hue to their tablescapes or takeaways through our personalized coasters, cocktail napkins, cups, or gift bags. This pop of color complements other shades of purple as well for a subtle trend influence and monochrome palette,” says Sari Mintz, president of ForYourParty.com.
Apparel and Accents “Ultra violet is a great color for a bridal party, as it really stands out and photographs beautifully. For spring and summer, it can be a great complement to yellow and teal colors, and for fall and winter, it can stand on its own against neutrals for a surprising pop of color,” says Lindsey Bennett, Azazie’s lead designer.
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angelaryanphotography.com
Ring in the Possibilities Diane Lloyde Roth, owner of L’Armoire, notes that the purple color of this tanzanite perfectly exemplifies Pantone’s Color of the Year. “The uniqueness of this stone is its infinite ability to change from the deepest violet to a blue-based purple. Looking into this stone, we are reminded of the boundless possibilities ahead in our life!” says Roth.
Takes the Cake Purple also takes the cake for frosting or cake details. “Purple can be a soft, romantic shade or a dark and vivid jewel tone; it can be used as a bold canvas for an all-white cascade of florals, or it can appear as a single stunning dark violet peony on an all-white tiered cake,” says Jeanne Topham of I Dream of Jeanne Cakes.
Cheers to Ultra Violet Ultra Violet is a great color to use in mixing cocktails. “What bride doesn’t want to feel like a princess on her wedding day? Why settle for princess when you can be an empress? The Emperor’s Sour uses the naturally violet Empress Gin, which was made for the Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia. Its stunning color gives this drink a vibrancy to the eye that few spirits can match. Adding egg white for the frothiness gives it a cloudlike impression that will match any bride’s dress well. Also, its beauty can be modified to match the wedding party; the garnish, an edible flower, can be matched to the highlight colors of the wedding,” notes Brice Peressini, lead bartender at The Victor.
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Purple Posies Benjamin Newbold, creative director of events and floral design at Winston Flowers, presents a few posies that highlight the hue’s flower power. “Ultra Violet is an artistic, energizing, and mysterious hue that adds gorgeous color to a wedding. Many of my clients are gravitating towards more neutral colors that look antique or faded—almost Victorian—which Ultra Violet has undertones of. Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to incorporate this color into your flowers, as there are many varieties in this shade. I especially love using anemones, Vanda orchids, sweet pea, and garden roses, as well as the playfulness of allium and the checkerboard pattern of Fritillaria. By pairing multiple flower types in varied shades of purple, your bouquet or centerpiece will give off an Ultra Violet hue. Also, the right lighting will make your Ultra Violet event glow. The contrast of soft blue lighting against purple flowers creates just the right shade—while purple lighting and purple flowers are a bit bolder. If you want your Ultra Violet flowers to be a star of the show, a dark atmosphere with spotlights on the flowers makes them almost fluorescent,” says Newbold.
Pops of Purple Fritz Bosch of Boston Event Lighting and Films says to light up the room in Ultra Violet. “Ultra Violet is a great color for event lighting. You can use it to add drama to a room through up lighting or a purple color wash. You can also add pops of color to the room in Ultra Violet. Think Prince and let purple ‘reign!’” says Bosch. Stacey Marcus is a freelance writer based in Marblehead. www.bridegroommag.com
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Where Dreams are Filled and Memories Created
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Classic Cocktail Comeback
Timeless Libations for Every Season by Emily Marcus Nothing quite sets the mood at an event like a great drink. Cocktails transport us, giving us a taste of an earlier time or an exotic location. When it comes to concocting creative beverages, more and more couples are opting for the tried-and-true classics to complement their elegant, retro, minimalist, or vintage vibe. In the words of Robbi Jo Oliver, director of wine and spirits for Mastro’s Ocean Club, “Traditional drinks are crowd-pleasers. If you are concerned about your guests and want to make sure they are pleased with the drink options, stick with the basics.” Likewise, bar manager Jenn Harvey of Cambridge’s Temple Bar notes, “Guests are opting for traditional drinks that don’t need much explaining. After all, simplicity is key.” Think simple equals boring? Think again. As the traditional trend booms, mixologists and bartenders are adapting their creations for modern times. Oliver advises, “To elevate these classics and make them more personal and fun, make a garnish bar with many kinds of olives, spices, peels, and maybe some inedible ones such as flowers and mini umbrellas!” Another option is to adjust the actual recipe: “Infusing a spirit is a simple way to take a classic and make it more you. You can also sub in a different spirit or modifier,” explains Kelly Coggins, beverage director of City Winery Boston. Coggins also suggests a drink-testing party before the big day for those looking to experiment. Or you could get more creative with the vessel the drink comes in, quirky ice cubes, unique food pairings, or a meaningful name. Photography courtesy of Mastro’s Ocean Club
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However you choose to modify your concoctions, our experts agree that the most important aspect of any wedding cocktail is that it reflects the couple and their spirit (pun intended). Here they weigh in on their top choices for every season:
Spring “As the snow starts to melt in Boston and the days get warmer, but still not as warm as you want, I think most people start to wishfully drink, moving back to light-colored spirits in hopes of drinking summer into existence. I love making variations on the classic Tom Collins this time of year, using local peas and juicing them to give the drink a bright color and spring flavor.” —Kelly Coggins, beverage director, City Winery Boston “Spring is tricky here in New England, so I like a drink that represents the tug of war between winter and summer. The Periodista, featuring dark Jamaican rum, lime, triple sec, and apricot liqueur is a wonderful option. The dark rum speaks to winter, while the stone fruit notes of the apricot liqueur hint at the warmer months to come.” —Jared Sadoian, assistant bar director, The Hawthorne
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Summer “I think sparkling cocktails play great in any season, but using fresh seasonal produce can always take a perennial classic to new seasonal heights. For example, a little muddled strawberry shaken and strained in our French 75 could be a nice, seasonal twist” —Gina Goyette, bar manager, Explorateur “Any citrus classic would be great during summer such as a gin/vodka Gimlet or a Margarita.” —Michael Ray, beverage consultant, Chopps American Bar and Grill
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Fall “Bamboo, a sherry cocktail with hints of baking spice. It’s a gorgeous amber color so it really looks like the season, too.” —Jared Sadoian, assistant bar director, The Hawthorne “I tend to move to a more spirituous drink. Something cozy with a fuller flavor that I just want to settle into with a great book. I love an Oaxaca Old-Fashioned. The smoky notes of the mezcal mingle with the mole bitters and reposado tequila to make the whole so much better than the sum of its parts.” —Kelly Coggins, beverage director, City Wintery Boston
Winter “A Boulevardier. The warmth of whiskey is perfect for the colder months!” —Robbi Jo Oliver, director of wine and spirits, Mastro’s Ocean Club “Stirred drinks are more fitting—particularly cognac and bourbon-based cocktails. Guests should try a Vieux Carré or a Negroni made with mezcal.” —Chris Keith, lead bartender, il Casale Belmont
Ultimately, drinks are one of the many ways a couple can get creative and add those magical (and delicious) details their guests will remember for years to come. Where they take their inspiration from, what flavors reflect their personality, and who they wish to honor can all be reflected in a carefully selected cocktail. While the classic trend is a great place to start, don’t be afraid to taste and tweak until you’ve found drinks that represent the most important part of any wedding: the bride and groom. www.bridegroommag.com
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Our Great Big Barn Wedding
Steven Gittelman and Elaine Trimarchi met in 1981 and became engaged in April 2015, when they were visiting property they had purchased in Connecticut the year before. Steve’s plan was to take Elaine for a walk to the far end of the lake and propose to her there. Unbeknownst to Steve, Elaine put her purse on the back seat, thinking she wouldn’t need it. Steve was a bit nervous, and when he shut the door of the truck, he realized immediately that he had locked the keys inside. Not wanting to spoil the moment, he took her on a romantic walk, and on bended knee, he asked his beloved for her hand. Then, with a smile, he asked her for her keys. She responded that they were safe in the truck. The property is in a very remote area, so they had a long wait before help arrived, but they managed to keep warm by building a fire.
Photographer: Michael O’Neil Fine Arts Inc. michaeloneillfineart.com
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The couple had always loved the barn at their Long Island home. It has a huge cupola and plenty of happy memories. Elaine was considering holding their nuptials there, but the deal was sealed when Steve’s younger daughter got engaged and wanted to be married at home. Since Elaine and Steve would have their wedding before hers, she made them promise that they would get married in the barn, and she would be the first to get married in the house. They planned for one year, nonstop. Elaine was in charge of taking care of the traditional wedding arrangements, and Steve was responsible for making sure the grounds and barn were up to snuff. Not long after that, Steve retired and totally immersed himself in working on the wedding and all that it involved. “Each day felt as if I was building a huge love note to Elaine,” he said. He would be up at sunrise and back after dark. Elaine would meet him after work in the barn to see his progress. When he finally laid down the wood floor, Elaine walked in after a long day at work and her jaw dropped. They decided to have their first dance together on the floor they had built. Steve said that he knew then that they were going to make it. “My stroke and all the fear that had accompanied it just a few months before seemed very far away.” continued on page 52
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Steve and Elaine were married on June 19, 2016, under a pergola decorated with flowers that Steve built just outside the barn. Usually used to store and repair equipment, the barn had a dirt floor, and the mixture of dust and grime made it impossible for any bride to comfortably appear in white. Many of the grimy plows and engine parts found new life on the walls of the barn. Even a piece of driftwood made an intriguing corner decoration. A beautiful touch was added with the twenty-six window frames, each with a half dozen or so panes, that were filled with photographs of everyone who was invited to the wedding. Each frame was softly highlighted by a battery driven LED light. A parent who had passed away was featured there, with angels placed next to the frame. The lake in Connecticut they both love so much appeared in a dozen or so happy pictures, and their new grandchild was there to look back at them through her baby eyes. It added a special dimension that seemed to make everyone feel at home. 52 Spring 2018
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Two highlights were the first dance and the first look. Steve was not expecting the first look to be so moving while he waited for Elaine in the garden. She came down and he burst into tears when he saw her. The photographer caught it all. The first dance was a waltz to “All of Me” by John Legend. Because Steve is not a natural dancer, they both took lessons on Friday nights, and on the night of the wedding it was like magic. They seemed to glide over the floor as if in a dream. If you’re planning a wedding in your own barn, Steve and Elaine advise you to keep in mind that you’ll have plenty to do, so give yourself plenty of time. Unlike booking a wedding venue, when you’re envisioning an event in your own barn, you’ll probably want to change quite a bit. Life on a farm may seem romantic, but it leaves something be desired when it comes to having a formal party: The roof might leak, the floor may not be good for dancing, and all the equipment that was stored there has to go if you want to fit in all of those tables. Steve added encouragingly, “If you have a barn and you’re brave, go for it. You will never forget it. It takes quite a bit of effort, but it’s worth it; in fact, that’s the case with any good marriage.”
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Pretty and Sophisticated How to Work the Plant-Based Trend into Your Menu by Connie Jeske Crane
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If you’re looking to create a wedding menu that’s deliciously sophisticated and in vogue, plant-based is the hottest food trend for 2018, according to New York restaurant consultancy group Baum + Whiteman. In Somerville, Kristen Campbell, director of event sales and planning at Forklift Catering, confirms a shift here as well. “We are seeing more demand for vegetarian and vegan catering.” In Boston, Emma Roberts, the owner of Capers Catering, says, “I think you’re always going to have that stodgy New England person who is a meat-and-potato person, but I think that’s getting less and less prevalent, and more people are open to new things and creativity.” The huge popularity of plant-based dishes is definitely something to keep in mind as you’re working out your wedding menu. Whether you and your partner embrace this dietary choice yourselves or just want to include beautiful vegetable dishes alongside meat proteins, it’s an exciting era. Across New England today, savvy caterers and chefs are elevating plantbased cuisine to a whole new level of dazzle.
New Mindset Do you want to get onboard with this trend? If the answer is yes, then the first thing to note is that there’s a whole new mindset emerging. We used to think of vegetarians and vegans as on the fringe, and catering was mostly geared towards covering the bases. As Campbell says, “For a long time it was, ‘That’s okay if
that’s what you want to do, and we’ll make sure there’s something you can have. But you know, Mom wants to serve beef and it’s her wedding too.’” Today, besides considering what guests and parents want, Campbell says more couples are crafting menus that reflect their preferences as well. “People have begun to include food as part of the personalization of their wedding.” The other big change is the food quality. Rather than adding a pallid vegetarian lasagne to your menu as an afterthought, Campbell says, plant-based dishes have become sophisticated, chef-driven fare.
Choosing a Caterer Obviously, choosing the right caterer is pretty important here. Roberts advises looking for caterers who customize their menus versus those who offer set packages. “You really need people who are very interested in vegetables, interested in farm-totable, interested in the cutting-edge…I think if you pick the right partner, then it’s easy to come up with something that’s fun and interesting.” How far you take the plant-based thing depends on you. While most weddings continue to include both plant- and meat-based dishes, it’s not uncommon today, says Campbell, to see all-vegetarian or all-vegan wedding menus. “We’ve found that with couples who are vegetarian or vegan, where both members are making that dietary choice, they tend to lean towards making the choice for the whole group.” continued on page 56
coleandkiera.com
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If you go meatless, buffets work really well versus plated meals, adds Campbell. “For couples who choose to do a fully vegetarian or vegan wedding, I find they’re leaning towards buffets because they want to offer guests those choices.”
Serving Suggestions As for how to wow your guests with vegetables, legumes, and grains, you’ll want to have lots of discussions with your caterer. The caterers we talked to did, however, have some great guidelines. Campbell, for example, suggests designing your buffet to include both familiar dishes and some that invite guests to explore. “Both of the vegan weddings we did last year had some sort of pasta component, and I think that’s a really accessible vegan entrée for people…But maybe also give them the opportunity to try something that they haven’t had before like lentils or curried cauliflower.” Interesting flavors also help woo a crowd, she adds. “People have a much more diverse palate than they used to, so things like samosas and Indian dishes lend themselves really easily to vegetarian flavors.” Finally, Campbell says opting for a late summer or early fall wedding, when there’s lots of gorgeous local produce, really helps you deliver pizzazz. “When you look at a beautiful tomato bar or peaches or beets or anything like that, you don’t think about missing that meat, because there’s so much amazing fresh food.” And ultimately, whether there’s meat or not is really not the point. As Roberts says, “I think the goal is to try to make beautiful things so that people don’t even realize that they’re vegan, because they’re so good and so hearty and so filling and so pretty that no one is missing the meat!”
kellybenvenuto.com
Connie Jeske Crane is a full-time freelance writer and reports frequently on weddings, parenting, sustainability, and social media.You can visit her at www.conniejeskecrane.com.
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Photos courtesy of: Racheal Provencher Photography
Devens Weddings and Events Say “I Do” with Sophistication, Elegance & Style Receive a $1000 discount off any new wedding of 150 or more when you mention this ad. *Restrictions apply. For details, call 978-757-3004 and ask for Jen. For your out of town guests, select from either Springhill Suites by Marriott or Hilton Garden Inn, located in Devens, MA 31 Andrews Parkway • Devens, MA 01434 • 978-757-3004 • devenscommoncenter.com
What’s Cooking? Great Gifts and Gadgets for the Foodie Couple by Stacey Marcus
What do you give the couple who are up on the latest food trends and first in line when a new restaurant opens in town? We assembled eight perfect presents for foodie couples to outfit their nest with the latest gadgets and greatest gifts. “Kitchen items are the perfect wedding gift because you can hone in on the new couple’s wants and needs; everyone uses the kitchen for something! Advanced appliances and high-tech gadgets can be the perfect gift for foodies who love to cook, while simple knives and pans that minimize mistakes are great for novice chefs. You also can’t go wrong with the abundance of options for coffee and wine lovers, says Nicole Vellucci, Bloomingdale’s vice president of shopping services. Here are ten fine gifts certain to delight your foodie friends:
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Divine Wine Coravin’s creative wine system lets you enjoy your favorite wines by the glass without corking. A thin needle inserted through the cork lets you pour wine without oxidizing the full bottle. Cheers! $349.95 bloomingdales.com
More Espresso Please! Inspired by Italy’s passion for espresso, the Smeg espresso maker delivers authentic espresso in iconic Italian style. Taking up little space on your counter, this slim machine brews a rich shot of espresso and steams milk for a velvety cappuccino. $449.95 williams-sonoma.com
Blooming Dinnerware
Pots That Pop
This set of four floral-glazed canapé plates was designed by Caskata, the homewares company that produces luxury china for the Met Gala. Set of 4/$80 markandgraham.com
T-fal’s Color Luxe cookware adds a sophisticated pop of color to any kitchen and features T-fal’s patented Thermo-SpotTM technology, which indicates when the pan is perfectly heated. $99.99 amazon.com
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A Cut Above! Words with Boards hand cuts each wooden piece with standout, personalized messaging. Each product is handcrafted from sustainably forested American hardwoods. $159 wordswithboards.com
Veggie Magic Create tasty alternatives to pasta with the OXO spiralizer, featuring stainless-steel blades that cut spaghetti, fettucine, or ribbon-cut noodles out of zucchini, carrots, and more. $39.99 bloomingdales.com
Not Your Grandmother’s Crock Pot The new Wolf multi-function cooker takes the place of separate rice cookers and slow cookers. The perfect appliance to slow cook, brown, steam and sautÊ food, and make perfect sous vide and rice. $799.95 jwhdesigns.com
Mix Master Top Chef alum Heather Terhune says the Kitchen Aid 600 Pro Mixer is a must-have for anyone who loves to bake, make ice cream, or cook pasta. Several attachments are available for making sausage, milling grains, and extruding pasta. $499.95 surlatable.com Happy shopping!
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Tie the Knot with Westford Charm
Our beautiful storybook hotel will provide the very best to meet your wedding needs including elegant rooms, lush landscaped grounds, exceptional service and food.
219 Littleton Rd. • Westford, MA 01866 978.727.8712 • westfordregency.com
featured facility The Asa Waters Mansion
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by Jennifer McNally Monac
ave you heard? There’s a secret in Blackstone
Valley, although word about this quintessential New England gem is spreading quickly. It’s the Asa Waters Mansion, located in the heart of Millbury Center. If you don’t already know about this exceptional venue, you’ll want to add it to your list of sites to visit before making any final decisions.
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“It’s a spectacular setting, yet it’s very private too, so couples say it feels like it’s their home for the day.” So what makes the Asa Waters Mansion so exceptional, you ask? Certainly there are a lot of choices in the region, especially if you’re looking for the timeless elegance that goes along with a venue worthy of being called a mansion, like those found in Newport or Lennox. The Asa Waters Mansion has so much of what they have to offer, with its stately columns and 22 interior rooms, constructed with the finest materials, some dating back 200 years. In fact, the Asa Waters Mansion has all the grandeur, the beauty, and the rich architecture of those better known venues, yet it also exudes intimacy as well as the warmth and charm worthy of a historic home—something not often felt in larger locations, and certainly not in a country club or hotel ballroom. It’s also one of the most affordable high-end wedding venues of its kind in New England. The Asa Waters Mansion checks all the right boxes without emptying your wallet. “There’s a sense of magic here,” said John McElroy, director of the Asa Waters Mansion. “It’s a spectacular setting, yet it’s very private too, so couples say it feels like it’s their home for the day. Unlike other mansion venues, the Asa Waters Mansion isn’t so vast that it swallows you whole as you enter the foyer. Instead, it has a feeling of classic familiarity for our guests. It’s refined, not ostentatious, and couples feel at ease in its splendor because they know they’re standing in a place connected to history—and now they’re becoming a continued on page 64
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part of that history. It’s like opening your own grand estate to your family and friends for your once-in-a-lifetime special event.� Asa Waters II, the man behind the mansion, was born in Millbury in 1769. There, he learned to be a gunsmith in his father’s shop, and became quite successful. He and his brother founded a prosperous armory in the area, which allowed Asa to found the Millbury Bank, too. In1823, he became a state representative for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and while in this highly respected position, he developed a plan to erect the stateliest residence in the country as a gift for his wife, Susan Holman Waters. Using only the finest materials from around the world, construction of the Asa Waters Mansion was set in motion in 1824. Over two centuries, the house enjoyed a rich and important history, including being a stop on the Underground Railroad during the Civil War, and Alexander Graham Bell was once there, as well as President Taft. During the last century, the home fell into significant disrepair, which inspired a large group of people in town, including the historical society, to develop the Friends of the Asa Waters Mansion about 25 years ago and an extensive restoration began. Their goal was to bring this pillar of Main Street Millbury back to
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its original glory through extensive research. Since then, it’s been a labor of love, with the donation of hundreds of hours of work from volunteers who have created a very special place. From late spring into the fall, celebra¬ting on the grounds of the mansion is a real treat, with its park-like exterior and blooming gardens. There’s a lovely bandstand and a brick pathway leading to the gazebo, with antique b¬¬¬lue stone steps out to one of the fields. Twinkle lights are used generously throughout. Tent weddings are the most popular and can accommodate up to 250 people, while those looking for a more intimate, indoor setting can host a reception with up to 80 people at any time of year. Winter—Christmas in particular—is an astonishingly beautiful time at the mansion, when an army of volunteers deck the halls; each room has its own tree! Wreaths, candles, and an antique sleigh make it a stunning place to be married over the holidays. Brides and grooms can choose their own caterers from the Asa Waters preferred list of vendors. These businesses know the mansion well and share its mission of providing only the best experience for couples, allowing them to express their own style within their specific budget. They take pride in finding ways to make each wedding significant and affordable, just for you. When couples step through the doors of the Asa Waters Mansion, they feel that they are in the presence of something very special. A great deal of consideration went into the restoration of every corner of the interior, as well as the outside with the splendidly manicured grounds. The restorers kept it very tasteful throughout, emphasizing subtle opulence and elegance. It’s so full of romance, too. The caretakers of this mansion have worked hard to include amenities that modern couples want, while staying very close to the period style wherever possible.
From top to bottom, the elegance and charm of the Asa Waters Mansion sets it apart and enhances the beauty of every wedding celebrated there. Alvah Reida Photography. Dresses Courtesy of Q Look Bridal and Bella’s Boutique. Linens from Woosta Party Rentals. Rentals from Boston Rustic Wedding Rentals. Tuxes from Bonardi’s Formalwear. Florals Millbury Town Florist. Jennifer McNally Monac is a freelance writer and real estate agent, who lives and works on Cape Cod.
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5 Great
Massachusetts & Rhode Island Expos to Choose From Produced by
508-770-0092 robinsonweddingphotography.com
November 4, 2018 Twin River Casino Events Center, Lincoln, RI November 18, 2018 Sturbridge Host Hotel, Sturbridge, MA January 6, 2019 Twin River Casino Events Center, Lincoln, RI March 3, 2019 Boxboro Regency Hotel & Conference Center, Boxboro, MA April 7, 2019 Twin River Casino Events Center, Lincoln, RI
Discounted tickets available at originalweddingexpo.com
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Jen Lynne Photography
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featured facility
The Beechwood Hotel
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erbphoto.com
by Jennifer McNally Monac
clectic and charming, yet innovative and urban,
the Beechwood Hotel is a deluxe wedding venue and luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of Worcester, Massachusetts. For more than 30 years, it’s been a dramatic locale for celebrating memorable events for couples looking to strike the perfect balance between classic style and contemporary sophistication. It’s all here under one roof. erbphoto.com
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The privately-owned Beechwood Hotel is the only four diamond hotel in Central Massachusetts. With 73 beautifully appointed rooms on five floors, (many newly renovated, with additional renovations to come), this luxury hotel has everything a couple and their guests could need to make their dream destination-wedding a reality.
“One of those unexpected touches is a full-size one-hundred-year-old wedding chapel.” scottraymondphotography.com
“Couples who choose to get married at the Beechwood Hotel—and all of their guests—can expect first-class hospitality, outstanding food, and an overall high-quality experience from start to finish,” says Erin Kutz, Director of Social Events. “A real bonus is the fact that the Beechwood is privately owned, and the owners are actively involved in every aspect of what goes on here. Being onsite everyday at the hotel allows them to keep a pulse on our guest experience and gives them the opportunity to make important decisions in real time. In addition, they’re selecting fine art for the walls, working with the chef to curate the most creative cuisine for their menu, and adding the unexpected special touches that set the Beechwood Hotel
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apart from the rest. They know the importance of providing an exceptional experience.” One of those unexpected touches is a full-size onehundred-year-old wedding chapel, acquired a few years back by one of the hotel’s owners. The Maria Gill Wilson Chapel was once located in the old Worcester City Hospital. This gorgeous chapel boasts hand-carved wood ceilings, along with breathtaking stained-glass windows that allow for the room to create a romantic ambiance. Built by a Boston banker in memory of his late wife, the distinguished Chapel (a love story unto itself) is attached to the 4,200-square-foot Grand Ballroom, where many couples have kicked off their wedding day nuptials. The Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 250 wedding guests comfortably, with enough space for the reception dinner and dancing. Not only that, the ballroom size is flexible, so if a more intimate wedding is what you had in mind, they can do that too. Just outside is an expansive brick terrace, perfect for an outdoor cocktail hour, where guests can enjoy expertly mixed drinks and a selection of delicious passed appetizers and hors d’oeuvres
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stations. Although there is an award-winning restaurant on the premises, there’s a separate chef at the Beechwood Hotel whose sole focus is wedding and special event menus. He takes pride in the fact that all of his hors d’oeuvres are homemade, on-site, and done to perfection. That’s just the beginning when it comes to this chef’s creative menus with global and farm-to-table options available for couples to enjoy. It’s that attention to detail that sets the Beechwood Hotel apart. Beyond the chapel, the terrace and the grand ballroom, the Beechwood provides a number of fun and aesthetically enticing locations when it comes to wedding-day photography. Even though the hotel is situated in an urban locale, outdoor photos are a nice option here. Directly behind the Beechwood Hotel, there’s a vintage farmhouse owned by the hotel. Couples can take pictures on the porch or across the street in the well-maintained public city-space, which has a manicured lawn and lovely trees. Just outside the Beechwood, bistro lights twinkle, and the hotel will be installing a 26-foot-tall antique fountain that was originally minted in the same place where the Statue of Liberty was created. They recently acquired this spectacular feature from a park in Philadelphia. That’s exactly the kind of unexpected specialty items and antiques that make the Beechwood Hotel unique and always evolving. Thinking outside the box and giving couples the options to make their wedding day as personalized and diverse as they are is what the Beechwood Hotel is all about. It’s modern European style and vintage flair are the cornerstones of the Beechwood’s luxury experience, presented in a timeless and memorable setting. When considering all of the options available in the Worcester area, the Beechwood Hotel stands out and delivers. Jennifer McNally Monac is a freelance writer and real estate agent, who lives and works on Cape Cod.
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“Eclectic and charming, yet innovative and urban, the Beechwood Hotel is a deluxe wedding venue and luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of Worcester.”
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Prime 2018 & 2019 Dates Available
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• • • • •
On-site Weddings Garden Gazebo Ample Parking Seating from 75 to 260 Picturesque Landscaped Gardens
A Royal Wedding of Your Very Own by Cindy Papish Gerber
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dandoke.com
o
n May 19, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will say their vows before a crowd
of thousands inside St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. Undoubtedly, millions of brides across the globe will be watching, taking notes, and wondering, How can I create a royal wedding of my own?
“Location, location, location,” emphasizes Pania Montumer, owner and event coordinator of P&M Events. ”One of the best things about being a New England bride or groom is that there are so many amazing venues available.” If you always dreamed of getting married in a real castle, it’s achievable! Winnekenni Castle majestically overlooks Lake Kenoza in Haverhill, MA. This landmark, known as the “City’s Hidden Crown Jewel,” is surrounded by 200 acres of scenic conservation land and walking trails. It offers couples the use of the great hall (equipped with a baby grand piano and interior balcony), an outer deck, a manicured lawn, a courtyard, and a formal garden. Searles Castle at Windham, a magnificent quarter-scale replica of an actual medieval manor house, is located only 30 miles north of Boston. “Couples not only have an English Tudor castle as their backdrop,” says Shaun DeLorey, sales and operations manager, but the venue “also brings guests through history.
gibbonsphoto.com
As they enter through the authentic Gothic doors from Windsor Castle and past Napoleon’s fireplace from the Tuileries Palace in France, “our couples feel like they are hosting their very own royal wedding.” “Nestled on Gloucester’s rocky Atlantic coast, Hammond Castle is the perfect setting for that memorable event,” says
Linda Rose, function coordinator. The captivating great hall, Renaissance dining room, courtyard, and oceanside lawn exudes charm, offering a breathtaking backdrop for photos. What’s more, “Walking down the aisle in an actual castle can make you feel like a princess marrying your prince charming!”
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blackthumbstudio.com
Transportation Using a horse-drawn carriage will make you “feel just like a queen,” says Jon Frost, owner of Remembrance Hill Carriages. “We provide a team of horses with driver and footman in full livery and top hats. Our white wedding carriage is a replica of the English ‘sociable’ or French ‘vis-à-vis’ design, similar to those used in Europe.” With room to accommodate additional members of your wedding party, this posh carriage will guarantee you a grand entrance.
blackthumbstudio.com
Flowers Although the royal bouquet will likely contain at least one traditional sprig of myrtle (a custom dating back to Queen Victoria), lily of the valley, and peonies, Sally E. Jablonski, president and owner of Herbert Berg Florist, Inc., advises, “There are other ways to display a royal quality while keeping down costs. By using substitutes like freesia, hydrangea, dahlia, or garden rose, “we can design a romantic-looking, English-inspired short cascade.” 76 Spring 2018
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“One of the best things about being a New England bride or groom is that there are so many amazing venues available.” Attire
Cake According to UK press sources, Prince Harry has requested that banana (his favorite flavor) be featured in the royal wedding cake. For local couples, Amanda McHugh, owner of Cakes by Amanda, suggests combining “banana cake with a caramel buttercream or adding some gold elements, which are very popular. Nothing says royal like gold!”
While Prince Harry will wear a military uniform, Meghan Markle’s jeweled tiara and exorbitantly priced haute couture gown will unquestionably create a major impact. “When Kate Middleton wore a full lace ball gown with a high neckline and long sleeves at her royal wedding, it sparked a trend that’s still happening right now,” explains Natalie Hanson, manager/ buyer at 125 Bridal. “Designers will need to quickly translate Meghan’s look for American brides.”
couples offer, “small gift bags at each table with an assortment of individually wrapped British candy and cookies,” as favors. Attaching place cards to imported tea bags or jam jars is yet another “jolly good” idea. “Adding gold and silver accents, playing with textures like velvet or sequins, a touch of candlelight, and even a bit of sparkle can really change the whole ambience,” says Pania. “It’s important to remember that luxury is personal. Whatever makes you feel like royalty...it’s all about personal preference.” Cindy Papish Gerber is a regular contributor to BRIDE&GROOM™. She writes from Connecticut.
Sources 125bridalboutique.com britsrus.com customcakesbyamanda.com
Décor and More
bergflorist.com
Go all red, white, and blue with British Union Jack decorations or employ an English garden party theme that combines pastels, chintz, and doilies. Alan Greaves, owner of Brits R US, a Massachusettsbased retail and online store—“A Source for All Things British and Irish”—suggests
hammondcastle.org pandmevents.com remembrancehillcarriages.com searlescastle.com winnekenni.com
www.bridegroommag.com
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The 1761
Old Mill
Restaurant, Cracker Barrel Pub & Country Store
The Perfect New England Setting for Your Special Day! Photo: Julie Mastromatteo
• Wedding Ceremonies • Receptions from 10 to 150 • Bridal Showers • Intimate Rehearsal Dinners 69 State Road East • Rte. 2A Westminster, Massachusetts 01473
978-874-5941 Visit our website at www.1761OldMill.com Photo: Julie Mastromatteo
chrisrouxphotography.com
Limousine Service
For All of Your Wedding Transportation Needs ❦ Rehearsal Dinners
Limousine Service
❦ Bachelor & Bachlorette Parties ❦ Wedding Day: Bridal Party & Guest Services
10% Discount to Military Personnel 78 Spring 2018
BRIDE&GROOM
AA Transportation Co., Inc. 605 Hartford Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 508-791-9100 Ext. 1 www.aatransportation.com
Exclusive Offer: $100 Credit Towards Any 3 Hour Wedding Package with Promo Code BG16
dragonflyshots.com
Gorgeous Green: The Greenery Trend Is Still Going Strong for 2018 by Connie Jeske Crane
I
f you follow color trends, you know that green had a major moment in 2017. It was the year the Pantone Color Institute pronounced Greenery 15-0343 as its color of the year. And we saw “fresh and zesty yellow-green” popping up everywhere from fashion runways to toss cushions to—yes—wedding color schemes, where greenery was suddenly everywhere.
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Although color trends have moved on (Pantone’s color of the year is Ultra Violet), when it comes to weddings, couples remain wildly infatuated with the verdant hue. Industry observers predict that we’ll continue to see lush foliage draped across reception tables, trailing from bouquets, and tucked into lapels. Among its 2018 trends, Wedding Wire gave a shout out to “all that greenery that will still be on-trend for 2018.” On the local front, Jyl Deering, Bostonbased wedding planner and designer for Chancy Charm, sees good news for green as well. “I’ve been doing a lot of meetings for our spring and summer weddings of 2018, and it is something that comes up constantly, yes. So I think it’s still on target and very much a trend.” So why does greenery remain such a wedding favorite? Aside from being a fresh and romantic aesthetic, greenery’s attributes such as affordability and perceived eco-friendliness are attractive to couples. In a recent post, popular blogger The Golden Girl perfectly captured the zeitgeist: “I’ve always loved flowers, especially blooms in soft, neutral tones. (Peonies and Hydrangeas! I die!)… But when I got engaged, my stomach churned at the idea of shelling out thousands of dollars for flowers that are going to get tossed after just one day!” Want to know more? Here are the top five things you need to know about the greenery trend for 2018:
1. Budget-Friendliness Choosing this option over traditional florals can mean big savings for your wedding budget. How much? According to a survey by The Knot in 2015, couples spend around $2,300 on their wedding flowers. Of course, the difference depends on what you select and what flowers you might have chosen otherwise. But if you opt for ferns, eucalyptus, Italian Ruscus, mosses, succulents, or other greenery for your arrangements, Amy McGlaughlin of Amy McGlaughlin Lifestyles says, “It could definitely cut [the cost] at least in half.” continued on page 82
ebacherphotography.zenfolio.com
ebacherphotography.zenfolio.com
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analogwedding.com
2. Style and Versatility Beyond pricing, greenery works with so many wedding themes, from rustic to minimalist to boho or organic. As for utilization, you can add hints of greenery throughout your celebration, beyond just bouquets and boutonnieres. “I’ve seen it on arbors and arches at the ceremony, and of course, in centerpieces running down the reception tables,” says Deering. “I’ve seen brides do greenery or wreaths on the back of their chairs…and for aisle markers in the ceremony.” Greenery also works well in women’s hair design—from simple sprigs to floral crowns. You can use it to grace cake layers and even to accent printed materials. “I’ve seen olive branches as a symbol on invitations,” says Deering. 82 Spring 2018
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Photo courtesy: Calisto and Co.
ebacherphotography.zenfolio.com
3. Subtle Scents If you’re tired of floral notes, greenery lets you add fresh scents to your occasion. With eucalyptus, for example, Deering says, “Some brides tuck it into a napkin on their place setting. It’s not a heavy fragrant scent, but it adds a nice soothing touch, as do balsams and things like that in the winter time.”
4. Practicality As for practical advantages, Deering names a few: “I do a lot of outdoor weddings, so even in July or August, when you’re worried about 90-degree heat and wilting floral arrangements, greenery holds up. It’s not going to die quickly or wilt.” In addition, she says in photographs, greenery lends presence and won’t fade into the background.
5. What’s New for 2018 McGlaughlin has observed several changes this year, beginning with a shift in shade preferences from sagey greens to darker, more evergreen shades. She is also seeing mosses being incorporated, especially in tablescapes. Overall, McGlaughlin sees more innovation ahead. “People are starting to get very creative with how they use greenery for the ceremony and reception décor. One thing we’re seeing quite a lot of now at the reception is greenery suspended either in place of, or incorporated into, overhead lighting…. and also walls of greenery.” As for bouquets, McGlaughlin foresees more greenery there as well , and if couples do incorporate florals, they’re choosing less traditional varieties versus traditional roses, peonies, and hydrangeas. “Everyone’s wanting to do something that’s never been done before.” www.bridegroommag.com
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Bridal Buzz Latest news and happenings!
New for 2018: Bonardi’s is offering in-home tuxedo and suit fitting services. Get your groomsmen together and Bonardi’s will come to you! Ask them about this service when you select your styles for the men. If you want to see the latest trends in wedding attire for men, check out Bonardi’s Formalwear’s newly designed website: www.Bonardis.com. Celebrating 95 years with locations in Worcester, Sturbridge, Milford, and Auburn.
Tower Hill Botanic Garden is delighted to announce an exclusive partnership with Peppers Artful Events. Peppers is an award-winning catering company, known for its five-star service and for consistently creating sumptuous foods and dazzling displays. Contact Tower Hill at 508.869.6111 or www.towerhillbg.org/weddings.
Plan a unique wedding at Worcester Art Museum. As part of your special day of celebration, WAM now includes an engagement photography session. Your chosen photographer will capture the moment as art and architecture come together with your engagement. Contact their wedding consultant for details on having your wedding at the Worcester Art Museum at 508-793-4327.
At Cameron&Fairbanks, all flowers are cultivated in their own gardens to suit each bride’s need. Specializing in dahlias, this unique studio creates floral designs that reflect the beauty of nature. Contact Cameron & Fairbanks at 339-236-2964 cameronandfairbanks.com.
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The Bull Mansion offers a variety of event spaces for any kind of event. Weddings, cocktail parties, intimate dinners, corporate or nonprofit meetings, baby & bridal showers all become one-of-a-kind here. It’s a setting like no other in Central Massachusetts that is rich in history and charm! www.bullmansion.com. (508) 755-6070
Emerald Invitations now offers the hottest wedding service: 3D Cake Toppers. Step inside the 3D photobooth, take your photo, and create a 3D image and print it for your wedding cake. It will be the most talked about item at your reception. Contact Emerald Invitations at 617-657-0812 for details or www.emerald-3d.com.
Ballroom in Boston has expanded their excellent teaching staff. They now offer even more dance instruction for weddings at convenient times, seven days a week. Their instructors work with brides, grooms, and wedding parties to prepare the first dance you’ve always dreamed of. Contact them to get started at (313) CUT-A-RUG or info@ballroominboston.com.
Castle and Cottage RI, Newport Wedding Florist. It doesn’t matter whether you’re getting married in a castle or a cottage, you can expect something beautiful and unique for every style, venue, and budget. Known for their outstanding customer service, Castle and Cottage can provide a very detailed, customized floral proposal in less than twentyfour hours. Contact Castle and Cottage RI, Newport’s newest boutique wedding florist, at 401-323-2148, www.castleandcottageri.com. www.bridegroommag.com
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Picture It Photo Booth & Photography provides an exciting flare for any event. Their team is interactive, fun, professional, and totally affordable! (401) 699-1067 or www.facebook.com/pictureitphotoboothri.
European Wax Center of Westborough recently opened European Wax Center of Marlborough at the Apex Center. From engagement photos and the bachelorette party to the big day, brides and bridal parties can stay smooth with 15% off full-price services every time you visit until your wedding.* Call (774) 512-0095 for an appointment in Westborough, or (774) 3690690 for Marlborough. *Additional conditions may apply and proof of wedding needed. Please ask the guest associate for details.
Husband-and-wife photography team Aram and Kateryna have a special for Bride & Groom readers: five hours of coverage for $1,500, plus a miniengagement session for save the dates. Contact Kataram at 781-888-0149. kataramstudios.com. kataram@kataramstudios.com.
A picture-perfect setting located in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, featuring rustic elegance in a post-and-beam structure. Beautiful, on-site ceremony options. Special $50 per person, complete 2019 Winter Wedding Package (January to March) available. Contact Danielle or Marie at (774)-241-8450 or click www.thebarnatwightfarm.com.
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Announce Your Engagement
in the Fall 2018 Issue of Magazine
Send your photo and wedding date to: Chevalier Associates 334 Boston Turnpike Shrewsbury, MA 01545 or e-mail at info@bridegroommag.com If you would like your photos returned please include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Photo must be received by July 1, 2018. Please include this information with photo: Name of Bride: Bride’s Residence: Name of Groom: Groom’s Residence: Date of Wedding:
bridegroommag.com
FACEBOOK Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ brideandgroom
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AVR Photography & Video 30th Anniversary Special
Photography .........$899 DJ ..........................$999 Add Video ............. $699 Add Booth .............$699 Add Up Lights .......$399 avrphotography.com Call 978.250.8117 info@avrphotography.com
A Historic Estate located in the beautiful Blackstone Valley Corridor. Asa Waters Mansion; where History and Beauty meet.
Asa Waters Mansion 123 Elm Street • Millbury, MA 01527 • 508.865.0855 • asawaters.org
www.bridegroommag.com
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FUNCTION FACILIT Y 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
(Held at one time)
Overnight Accommodations
E, B, D, W
Varies
Yes
Yes
250 Max
Yes
1
Yes
Number of Events
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.
Bull Mansion (7)
E, B, D, W
$25 - $100
Yes
Yes
25/200
Yes
1-2
No
55 Pearl St., Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 775-6070 bullmansion@gmail.com www.bullmansion.com
The Bull Mansion offers a variety of event spaces for any kind of event. Weddings, cocktail parties, intimate dinners, corporate or nonprofit meetings, baby & bridal showers all become one-of-a-kind here. It’s a setting like no other in Central Massachusetts that is rich in history and charm! Contact: Hannah Green.
Mechanics Hall (23)
E, B, D, W
321 Main St., Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 752-5608 • Fx: (508) 754-8442 events@mechanicshall.org www.mechanicshall.org
Varies
Yes
Yes
150/425
Yes
1
No
Celebrate your wedding surrounded by historic Victorian elegance. Our spacious facilities accommodate intimate gatherings or grand celebrations. Contact: Diana Casavecchia.
South of Worcester Asa Waters Mansion (89)
E, B, D, W
$30 - $75
No
Yes
25/150
Yes
1
123 Elm Sr., Millbury, MA 01527 Ph: (508) 865-0855 JMcElroy@townofmillbury.net www.asawaters.org
A historic estate located in the beautiful Blackstone Corridor. Let us make your fairy tale dreams come true. Asa Waters: where history and beauty meet. Contact: John K. McElroy II.
Coachmen’s Lodge (Inside Front Cover)
E, B, D, W
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 - $50
$30 - $75 +
Yes
Yes
No
No
240
50/1200
Yes
No
2
1
BRIDE&GROOM
No
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.
Types of Functions Offered: E - Engagement Parties B - Bridal Showers D - Rehearsal Dinners W - Wedding Receptions
92 Spring 2018
No
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
Under $30
Yes
Yes
75/260
Yes
1
No
West of Worcester J. Anthony’s Italian Grill Function Facility (72) 206 Southbridge Rd, N. Oxford, MA Ph: (508) 832-9705 • Fx: (508) 832-7978 www.janthonysgrill.com
Leicester Country Club (17)
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
$30 - $70
Yes
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 (89)
E, B, D, W
$50 - $75 +
Yes
Yes
Max 250
Yes
2
No
2
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 (83)
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.
Salem Cross Inn
E, B, D, W
260 W. Main St. (Rte. 9), West Brookfield, MA Ph: (508) 867-8337 • Fx: (508) 867-0351 donna@salemcrossinn.com www.salemcrossinn.com
Sturbridge Host Hotel (42) 366 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (508) 347-7393 • Fx: (508) 347-3824 info@sturbridgehosthotel.com www.sturbridgehosthotel.com
The Barn at Wight Farm (25)
$35 - $68
$30 - $60
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Max 250
Varies
Yes
Varies
Yes
1
E, B, D, W
$57 - $102
Yes
Yes
Max 350
Yes
2
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
Varies
Yes
Yes
40-175
Yes
1
The Barn at Wight Farm can host your ceremony, reception, or bridal shower in one of our beautiful post and beam buildings located at The Collection at Wight Farm, Sturbridge, MA. Contact: Marie Flavin.
The Harding Allen Estate (72)
E, B, D, W
angelaryanphotography.com
No
Authentic 1705 farmhouse, spectacular scenery, complimentary wedding planning, established reputation as one of the finest restaurants in New England. Contact: Donna Bennett.
420 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (774) 241-8450 info@T3Chefs.com www.T3Chefs.com
Rte. 122 off Barre Common, Barre, MA 01005 Ph: (978) 355-4920 www.harding-allen.com
Yes
$35 - $70
Yes
Yes
275
Yes
1
No
Yes
Massachusetts’ premier wedding and banquet historic mansion–for when it has to be special. Contact: Grace Gugliotti.
www.bridegroommag.com
93
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
Yes
75/600
Yes
1-2
Yes
North of Worcester
Boxboro Regency Hotel & Conference Center (6) 242 Adams Place, Boxboro, MA 01719 Ph: (978) 889-1711 sguay@boxbororegency.com www.boxboroweddings.com
Discover our newly appointed indoor atrium and gazebo. Say, “I do” in our beautiful courtyard with an outdoor wedding feel surrounded by loved ones. Contact: Stephen Guay.
Chocksett Inn (9)
E, B, D, W
$50 - $75+
Yes
Yes
50/300
Yes
1
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: Marissa Dunn.
Devens Weddings and Events (57)
E, B, D, W
27, 31 Andrews Parkway, Devens, MA 01434 Ph: (978) 757-3003 • Fx: (978) 772-4903 Jen.Roy@marriott.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.
DoubleTree by Hilton Leominster (IBC)
E, B, D, W
99 Erdman Way, Leominster, MA 01453 Ph: (978) 534-9000 • Fx: (978) 466-3400 www.leominster.doubletree.com
Great Wolf Lodge (95)
$30 - $50
$30 - $50
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
5/500
1/500
Yes
Yes
1
2
Yes
Yes
Yes
Experience the most magical time of your life in our exquisite Grand Ballroom or beautiful garden pavillion. Call today to schedule a tour. Contact: Social Sales Manager. E, B, D, W
$30 - $50
Yes
Yes
10/400
Yes
3
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.
Harrington Farm (11)
E, B, D, W
178 Westminster Rd., Princeton, MA 01541 Ph: (978) 464-5600 x222 traci@harringtonfarm.com www.harringtonfarm.com
We offer an elegant country ambiance with spectacular food and service while Mother Nature provides the panoramic views and scenic backdrops for your special day. Contact: Traci Swenson.
The Manor Restaurant Pub Banquet (37)
E, B, D, W
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 (78)
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: Rhetta Guimond.
Sterling National Country Club (4)
E, B, D, W
$65- $100
$35 - $100
$30 - $50
Varies
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
50/225
25/400
10/150
40/225
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
1
No
No
1-3
No
2
1
No
33 Albright Rd., Sterling, MA 01564 Georgianam@sterlingcc.com www.sterlingcc.com Ph: (978) 422-0275
A picturesque setting, beautiful ballroom and stunning outdoor ceremony space along with delicious cuisine and a professional staff to ensure expectations are exceeded. Contact: Georgiana Mathieu.
Wachusett Country Club (87)
E, B, D, W
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.
Wesford Regency Inn & Conference Center (61) 219 Littleton Rd., Westford, MA 01866 Ph: (978) 727-8712 sales@westfordregency.com www.westfordregency.com
E, B, D, W
$30 - $50
$50-75
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
50/400
2/400
Yes
Yes
2
1-2
BRIDE&GROOM
Yes
Our beautiful storybook hotel will provide the very best to meet your wedding needs including elegant rooms, lush landscaped grounds, exceptional service and food. Contact: Kim Eidens.
Types of Functions Offered: E - Engagement Parties B - Bridal Showers D - Rehearsal Dinners W - Wedding Receptions
94 Spring 2018
No
Get Social With Find us on
FACEBOOK Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ brideandgroom
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95
Wedding Beauty
96
BEAUTY
DONATION SERVICES
European Wax Center
I Do Foundation
290 Turnpike Road Westborough, MA 01581 (774) 512-0095
1133 19th St. NW, 9th Floor, Washington, DC 20036 info@idofoundation.org www.idofoundation.org
115 Apex Drive Marlborough, MA 01752 (774) 369-0690 Terri.Radley@waxcenter.com Waxcenter.com
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.
We provide the ultimate wax experience! Unlike traditional waxing, we believe in revealing beautiful skin. Less time, less pain and lower price point
Bridal Shops
96
Bridal Shows
96
Cakes
96
Catering
96
Donation Services
96
Entertainment
97
Ve’Lace Bridal offers you a fresh and updated yet warm and welcoming atmosphere. Step into our modern, clean boutique as we provide you with the full bridal experience.
Florists
97
BRIDAL SHOWS
Honeymoon Spots
97
Jewelry
97
334 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 770-0092 info@originalweddingexpo.com www.originalweddingexpo.com
Limousines
97
Since 1978, The Original Wedding Expo™ has been the area’s longest running and most respected bridal show.
Photo Booths
98
CAKES
Photography
98
Reception Facilities
92
Specialty Lighting
98
Tuxedos
98
Videography
98
Wedding Internet Services 98
96 Spring 2018
BRIDE&GROOM
resources
BRIDAL SHOPS Ve’Lace Bridal by Shadia, LLC (5) 11 Mechanic St., Bellingham, MA 02019 (508) 966-0091 Velacebridal@gmail.com www.velacebridal.com
The Original Wedding Expo™ (66 & 67)
Aunty Ellen’s Creative Confections (73)
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.
The Jimmy Fund 10 Brookline Place West, Brookline, MA 02445 (617) 632-6099 jffavors@dfci.harvard.edu www.jimmyfund.org/cards Ranked #1 in New England for breakthrough cancer research/ treatment and provides hope for thousands diagnosed with cancer each year.
Why Me, Inc. 1152 Pleasant St., Worcester, MA 01602 (508) 757-7734 www.whyme.org
16 Central St., Leominster, MA 01453 (978) 537-5675 emf0605@verizon.net www.AuntyEllensCakes.com
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.
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.
474 Boston Tpke., Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 842-FOOD (3663)
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.
Worcester County Food Bank 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
JEWELRY
Festive Events (24)
Maria’s Fine Jewelry (3)
260 Long Pond Rd., Plymouth, MA 02360 (800) 370-8863 davelong@festiveevents.com www.festiveevents.com
269 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01604 (508) 795-0201 maria@mariasfinejewelry.com www.mariasfinejewelry.com
Festive Events believes that every wedding is special and unique. Our approach is designed to assist you in planning your perfect wedding.
We are a 26-year-old family owned business serving Worcester county with expert jewelry design and quality craftsmanship.
Wedding DJ Specialist Brian Fligg (79) 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.
FLORISTS Herbert E. Berg Florist 19 Blackstone River Rd., Worcester, MA 01607 (508) 755-5888, (800) 383-2374 www.bergflorist.com Herbert E. Berg offers creative floral designs and personalized service. Call today for your floral consultation.
HONEYMOON SPOTS MEGA Divi & Tamarijn (90 & 91) Oranjestad, Aruba (800) 554-2008 www.diviaruba.com 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.
LIMOUSINES AA Limousine Service (78) P.O. Box 639, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 791-9100 ext. 1 GeorgiaBrigham@aol.com www.aatransportation.com Our professional detail-oriented drivers are trained to give you the best service possible. Specializing in weddings, bachelorettes, nights out, prom or any other occasion.
Gray’s Limousine (43) 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.
ROCKSTAR LIMO (16) 2 Commerce Dr. Warwick, RI 02886 (888) 725-7871 weddings@ROCKSTARlimo.net www.rockstarlimo.net
brookeellen.com
ROCKSTAR LIMO is the premier transportation provider that not only has vehicles to match your style, but service beyond your expectations.
angelaryanphotography.com
www.bridegroommag.com
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Wedding DJ Specialist Brian Fligg (79)
PHOTO BOOTHS
Fitchburg, MA (978) 345-1354 brian@sonicdj.com www.brianfligg.com
MA Photo Booths (79) Fitchburg, MA (978) 345-1354 brian@maphotobooths.com www.maphotobooths.com 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.
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.
TUXEDOS
PHOTOGRAPHY AVR Photography & Video (88) 92 Chelmsford Rd., Chelmsford, MA 01824 (978) 250-8117 info@avrphotography.com www.avrphotography.com 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.
RECEPTION FACILITIES (see page 92)
SPECIALTY LIGHTING Festive Events (24) 260 Long Pond Rd., Plymouth, MA 02360 (800) 370-8863 davelong@festiveevents.com www.festiveevents.com
VIDEOGRAPHY AVR Photography & Video (88) 92 Chelmsford Rd., Chelmsford, MA 01824 (978) 250-8117 info@avrphotography.com www.avrphotography.com 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.
WEDDING INTERNET SERVICES
Bonardi’s Formalwear (8) 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.
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.
OriginalWeddingExpo.com (66 & 67)
Your connection to finding the best Wedding Expos. Buy discounted tickets online. Comprehensive Planning Guide features everything from bridal shops to videographers.
Men’s Wearhouse (10) www.menswearhouse.com With over 1,000 locations nationwide, including all Men’s Wearhouse stores, ordering, picking up and returning a tuxedo has never been easier.
Festive Events believes that every wedding is special and unique. Our approach is designed to assist you in planning your perfect wedding.
Tag us in your wedding pics on Instagram for a chance to be in @BrideAndGroomMag #BrideGroomMag JenniferNevesPhoto.com
98 Spring 2018
BRIDE&GROOM
Make memories to last a lifetime. At DoubleTree by Hilton™ Leominster, we know you’re about to experience the most magical time of your life. So whether you’re envisioning an intimate affair or a grand gala, let us help you make your dreams a reality.
DoubleTree by Hilton. Where the little things mean everything.™
Photos by: johnlemayphotographer.com
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