Mountain Soirée 2016 by Colorado Mountain News Media

CREATE AN EVENT LIKE NO OTHER

YOUR STORY

INSPIRED

2016

contents

the spotlight 6

the story 14

LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! Picking the perfect venue for your perfect day

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COLORADO TENTS & EVENTS PARTY RENTAL EQUIPMENT BUILDING YOUR DREAM TEAM Local vendors, wedding planners all play a crucial role on your big day

23 HELPFUL HINTS FOR PLANNING EVENTS

You’ve set the date, now it’s time to plan

27 FUN FACTS

The wedding industry in the Rocky Mountains at a glance

26 DIRECTORY

Call, email, or even stop by

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Inspiration found here… Every girl grows up dreaming of the perfect wedding and every planner, producer and coordinator dreams of the perfectly executed event. With picturesque settings of majestic alpine meadows and jagged 14ers kissed with the perfect alpenglow sunset it is no wonder the mountains of Colorado have inspired the dreams for such grand soirées! Our vision with Mountain Soirée is to help spark your imagination, share insights and knowledge and turn your dreams to reality. Instead of flooding our pages with photos and themes of past couples and their visions, we want to guide you to create your own by providing the important details and plethora of options to help you write your story. Don’t be overwhelmed by the process; gain some insider tips on planning (pg. 23). Not sure of all the things to consider in choosing the perfect location for you? It’s all about the location (pg. 6). No building, no electricity – no problem! Colorado Tents & Events has you covered (pg. 14). Once you’ve personalized your venue, check in with our dream team of vendors to tie up the loose ends (pg. 18). You’re sure to be impressed with the hospitality, knowledge and experience of our local vendors who call this beautiful place home. It’s been said that “home is where love resides, memories are created, friends and family are always welcome and laughter never ends.” We are excited for the opportunity to share our home with you for your next Mountain Soirée. We hope you are inspired to let your dreams come true! Emma Simmins, Summit Daily News Kevin Abernathy

PUBLISHED BY

PUBLISHER Matt Sandberg msandberg@summitdaily.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Blair Tice Cindy Boisvert Debbie Harris Emma Simmins Eric Groves Ian Donovan MARKETING Ashlee Bratton DESIGN TEAM MANAGER Afton Pospíšilová ART DIRECTION & DESIGN Carly Arnold DESIGN TEAM Malisa Samsel Ashley Detmering Darin Bliss Madelyn LyBarger CONTRIBUTORS Kara Delay - Love this Day Events Kelly Karli Weddings & Events Kevin Abernathy Studio Kiva Photography IN Photography Bloom Flower Shop

on the cover

A beautiful rustic arbor arrangement by Bloom Flower Shop. Shot at Lodge by the Blue in Breckenridge, CO. Photo by Katie Girtman Studio Kiva Photography.

PHOTOGRAPHY Thinkstock and Colorado Tents & Events DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Shawn Butler COLORADO MOUNTAIN NEWS MEDIA Jim Morgan, General Manager

contributors KARA DELAY

KATIE GIRTMAN

Love This Day Events

Studio Kiva Photography

Most recent “soirée” you attended? A lovely birthday party

Most recent “soirée” you attended? Halloween Madness party with lots of wacky costumes.

Most memorable ring bearer? He was dressed as a ring bear – and he growled the entire way down the aisle. Wackiest cake flavor? Hemp

Most memorable ring bearer? A real live monkey! Wackiest cake flavor? Beetroot and Chia

Best non-traditional venue? Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Tabernash

Best non-traditional venue? On a rock climb and had the ceremony at the top of the cliff in the Grand Canyon

The bride wore… Claire Pettibone

The bride wore… Vera Wang or a red dress

Necktie or Bowtie? Not even a question – bowtie

Necktie or Bowtie? Bowties seem to be more in right now

Largest wedding party? 14 on each side – gotta love Texas … everything’s bigger!

Largest reception attendance? 5,000 guests

Best thing about a Rocky Mountain wedding? Every. Single. Part.

Are mason jars still “in”? Yes! Best thing about a Rocky Mountain wedding? The stories you’ll have to tell for the rest of your life from a magical place..

KELLY KARLI

Kelly Karli Weddings & Events Most recent “soirée” you attended? Luxury Business Summit in Grand Cayman Necktie or Bowtie? Bowtie Largest reception attendance? 300 guests Best thing about a Rocky Mountain wedding? The amazing hospitality, wide array of mountain views, and creating a luxurious wedding in a rustic, laid back community.

KEVIN ABERNATHY Most recent “soirée” you attended? Smooth Jazz Brunch with friends Most memorable ring bearer? Golden Retriever puppy carrying rings in a basket in its mouth Wackiest cake flavor? Honey Lavender Cake with Green Tea Frosting Best non-traditional venue? Point Dillon Park Lawn The bride wore… Rented Dress Necktie or Bowtie? Bowtie for sure! Largest wedding party? 34 Are mason jars still “in”? Yes – they fit the Colorado rustic theme for both tableware as well as decor Best thing about a Rocky Mountain wedding? So many unique and wonderful locations with views like no other. Truly turning your wedding into a magical experience for guests near and far.

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ocation!

ocation! by kara delay

o you and your partner have settled on Colorado for your special day. Congratulations! You have already displayed exceptional taste. When it comes to planning a wedding, one of the first details you want to secure is where and when the ceremony and reception will be held. Venue selection, as many professional wedding planners will tell you, is going to be first on your list of “to-do’s”. Many are booked far in advance and you shouldn’t settle for a backup plan on your special day. How to narrow the possibilities? Breathe. We know the air is thin up here and it can definitely feel overwhelming. You’re in good hands! We have compiled the best experience in the business and are here to give you some pointers. It is not just about selecting a location, but finding one that suits you and your guests and will allow you to create the Rocky Mountain wedding of your dreams! The central mountain region of Colorado offers everything from world-class resorts to lesser known “locals-only” gems. You will have your choice of everything from private home rentals and ranches, to town and county owned venues, to ballrooms and beyond. Make sure to speak with local vendors who specialize at working in these unique locations. When it is time to make a decision, keep in mind some key factors that are important to you and your partner. Do you want the fresh air feeling of an outdoor venue like Rocky Mountain National Park? Or will the views from a ballroom work? Would you prefer the hustle and bustle of a Main Street location off the slopes of Breckenridge Ski Resort or Winter Park? Use these criteria when coming up with your list of your needs and wants in a venue.

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Now that you have your list of potential locations, there are several other logistical questions to consider: 1. What is a realistic and comfortable budget? 2. How much of this budget is being spent on the venue versus the rest of your vendor team? 3. Can the venue accommodate your desired amount of guests? 4. Can the ceremony be on-site as well? 5. Are you able to use the vendor(s) of your choosing, such as catering, or does the facility provide their own? 6. Are you able to provide your own alcohol or does the venue help provide that for you? 7. How easily accessible is the venue for your guests to get to and from? 8. Is there enough parking for guests and vendors? What are the group transportation options? 9. Can guests stay on-site or near by? 10. Would there be enough power to accommodate all of your needs, specifically a band? 11. Are pets allowed? 12. Are there any guests with mobility issues (wheelchairs)? 13. Are there any religious traditions that need to be considered?

14. What is the rain/snow plan? And yes – we need a rain plan in February and a snow plan in July. Welcome to Colorado! 15. What are the times of the rental? Most venues rent the spaces for either eight, 10 or 12 hour blocks. If you have a large décor installation in mind, you will need to provide vendors with adequate time for set-up and strike. Remember, for most couples hosting a wedding at any venue in the Rocky Mountains, it is a destination wedding for the guests. Many of them will make a mini vacation out of it, spending a few extra days either to get to your location or at the location itself. This is an important factor in your decision, but don’t make it a deal breaker. Do make sure you can find spaces for a welcome party, rehearsal dinner and post-wedding brunch that can accommodate all of your guests.

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THE FRISCO DAY LODGE 621 Recreation Way • PO Box 4100 • Frisco, CO 80443 970.668.2558 • Townoffrisco.com Katie Barton, Guest Services Manager • katieb@townoffrisco.com

The Frisco Day Lodge is surrounded by peaks in every direction, and the strong connection to the landscape is evident inside this beautiful 4,000-square-foot lodge with its soaring ceilings and massive windows. There is an outdoor ceremony site available on the lodge’s beautiful lawn, and the lodge features a double-sided fireplace open to both the outside and inside of the lodge. The Frisco Day Lodge offers a unique spot for couples who want the mountain landscape to be a part of their wedding day.

joe kusumoto photography

Featured in pictures: Kasey C. Provorse and Bradd Provorse married during the Summer of 2014

ideal capacity:

60-100

maximum capacity:

120 but capacity may be expanded with the use of a tent types of events: Wedding Receptions and Rehearsal Dinners on-site catering:

outside catering allowed: Yes and due to the logistics of the location a full service caterer is recommended liquor license: parking:

Yes

Close-in and space for 75+ cars

site fee:

$600-$900 for the Day Lodge (additional fees for the ceremony site)

includes:

Some chairs and tables

DEVIL’S THUMB RANCH RESORT & SPA

capacity:

Up to 300

types of events:

Wedding Ceremonies, Wedding Receptions, Rehearsal Dinners on-site catering:

Yes

outside catering allowed:

3530 County Road 83, Tabernash, CO 80478 P.O. Box 750, Tabernash, CO 80478 970.726.7004 • www.devilsthumbranch.com facebook.com/devilsthumbranch • pinterest.com/devilsthumbrnch

Few places on earth will give you the sense of awe and romance that you will feel at Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa. Fewer still are able to combine that feeling with facilities and staff that can make your Colorado mountain wedding a truly memorable one. Just 10 miles from Winter Park, Colorado, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa is an award-winning, environmentally friendly year-round destination resort offering rustically upscale accommodations, sustainablyfocused fine dining and an array of winter and summer outdoor mountain recreation. 10

liquor license:

Yes. Guests are not allowed to bring own alcohol. parking:

On-site guest parking is available

site fee includes: ceremony site, reception site, tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware, silverware, one bartender per 75 guests, setup and breakdown, catering staff

THE SILVERTHORNE PAVILION 400 Blue River Parkway, Silverthorne • 970.262.7391 • www.silverthornepavilion.com

ideal capacity:

200-250

maximum capacity:

300

types of events: Wedding Ceremonies and Receptions, Rehearsal Dinners, Bridal Luncheons, etc. on-site catering:

outside catering allowed:

Yes, you are welcome to bring in the caterer of your choice.

liquor license: Yes, the Silverthorne Pavilion does own the liquor license for the facility, meaning that you work with us for any alcohol needs. parking:

Yes, plenty of on-site parking.

site fee:

$1950-$3950

includes: Use of the entire facility and grounds, as well as the set-up and takedown of all indoor tables and chairs, and one onsite attendant throughout the entire evening, troubleshooting the building.

The Silverthorne Pavilion is a stylish yet affordable venue that will provide a serene mountain setting, excellent customer service and wow your guests with spectacular views of the Gore Range. With hardwood floors throughout, hand-crafted chandeliers, exposed trusses and custom ironwork, the Pavilion is a unique facility capable of accommodating both ceremonies and receptions of all types and sizes.

“If you are looking for a venue for your upcoming wedding, party or event, I would highly recommend the Silverthorne Pavillion! The building itself is immaculate with a comforting mountain vibe, the staff are the nicest people you will ever meet and the price point is unbelievable.” – 9/24/15 bride MOUNTAINSOIREE.COM

WEDGEWOOD LODGE

maximum capacity: types of events:

Wedding Receptions, Ceremonies, Rehearsal Dinners, Bridal Luncheons, Etc. on-site catering:

535 Four O’Clock Road, Breckenridge, CO 80424 800.521.2458 • www.tonti.com • reservations@tonti.com

outside catering allowed: liquor license: parking:

Nestled in the heart of Breckenridge, the Wedgewood Lodge offers the perfect venue for your Rocky Mountain wedding. Our cozy Eagle’s Nest room boasts a beautiful stone fireplace and overflows to an outdoor patio with magnificent mountain views. Make your wedding day (and night) truly breathtaking at the Wedgewood Lodge.

120

Yes

Yes, for lodging guests site fee:

includes:

Yes

Tables, chairs, dance floor, set-up

ARAPAHOE BASIN 888.ARAPAHOE www.arapahoebasin.com

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Arapahoe Basin’s Black Mountain Lodge provides the perfect romantic venue for your Colorado wedding. Inside the mid-mountain lodge, high vaulted ceilings supported by immense raw cut timbers rise above the spacious dining room where towering windows offer you and your guests incomparable views of the Continental Divide. Outside, the lodge’s spacious deck extends above the mountain terrain and is the perfect setting for you and your guests to enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and to hold your entire wedding ceremony – all at 11,550 feet above sea level.

brian kraft photography

maximum capacity:

Up to 200

on-site catering:

Yes

site fee includes:

Chairlift for full 5 hours of event, day-of coordinator, catering staff, ceremony site, reception site, banquet tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware flatware, cake cutting.

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PICK YOUR

PLEASURE WITH THE LARGEST RENTAL INVENTORY IN THE CENTRAL MOUNTAINS, COLORADO TENTS & EVENTS CAN HELP YOU TRANSFORM YOUR VENUE.

enue booked â&#x20AC;Ś check! Now the fun begins with personalizing and designing the space and your day. Your wedding will become an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Colorado Tents & Events has provided their services to the mountain communities and beyond for over 16 years; if you can dream it, they can make it happen. With thousands of items to inspire you, their passionate and detailed staff will walk you through the process of turning the basic into the spectacular.

CELEBRATE IN STYLE CTE is always cutting edge and ahead of the trends. Ask about their brand-new one-of-akind hardwood tent floor for your next event!

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Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a sampling of a few unique wedding offerings. From rustic to chic, their designers will help you add some spunk and personality to your next event.

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EQUIPMENT FOR RENT

TENTS LIGHTING FLOORING HEATERS GENERATORS DANCE FLOORS STAGING The personal and professional staff at CTE will help guide you through the rental process from start to finish. Whether you simply need ceremony chairs or an entire tented reception, you are in good hands!

www.tentsandevents.com 16

TABLES & CHAIRS FOOD & BEVERAGE SERVICE AUDIO VISUAL EQUIPMENT CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW SERVICES

REACH FOR THE STARS The only limitation you will have with the look and feel of your wedding or event venue will be yourself. The extensive inventory and creative staff can help you capture the look and feel you’ve been dreaming about. From Colorado Rustic to Mountain Chic, they’ve got you covered!

COOKING EQUIPMENT CHINA/GLASSWARE/ FLATWARE LINENS CASINO CONCESSIONS AND MUCH MORE!

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Building

YOUR DREAM TEAM by kelly karli

sk anyone who has planned a wedding; the journey to “I do” is quite the learning experience. Everyone with a hand in making your day a success has a specific role, but who ties it all together? When it comes to the “oops,” “we have a problem,” and “wish I would have thought of that” circumstances, you’re going to need a right-hand man, or woman! The decision to hire a credible and experienced wedding planner at the beginning of the process can almost guarantee the absence of those “oh no” moments. Wedding planners will have connections to top-rated vendors working relationships with venues, and the experience to ensure your vision is created with ease. Your guests will speak of the memorable moments, rather than the few things that could have been better. But don’t be fooled – not all wedding planners are the same. Several years ago the phrase “DOWP” or “Day-of Wedding Planner” became an intriguing concept for many brides. The idea was for her to plan the entire day on her own, and hire someone to execute on the day-of. Sounds easy enough, but the bottom line is this: wedding planners are hired to plan. Unfortunately, bringing someone in on the day-of does not allow enough time to be involved with the intricate details of the entire wedding.

• • • • •

In many cases, this causes the bride and wedding party to be faced with more crises than champagne toasts. There are three main categories of expertise a professional wedding planner will have knowledge in: designing events, planning events and managing events. To give you an idea of a professional wedding planner’s craft, we have compiled a small list of their duties:

Budget consultation Guest list and invitations Venue scouting Vendor contracting Creation of timeline for guest arrival through morning-after brunch • Detailed planning checklist for the bride • Coordination of deliveries, arrivals and guest movement with the venue • Compiling fine details and loose ends to create a flowing theme • Execute the ceremony rehearsal • Budget monitoring, avoiding additional and unnecessary charges due to poor planning Without a detailed understanding of the entire event and its components, the job of a DOWP can be difficult and paves the road for lackluster results. For example, if a DOWP has not been a part of the vendor contracting, he or she may not be able to catch timing or logistical issues leading to additional charges. Since a DOWP is not responsible for building your timeline, your photographer and wedding party may be out of the loop while you’re in hair and makeup. Wedding planners traditionally charge a higher price than day-of planners for a reason. There are countless hours of work required to plan and execute a successful event. With skilled professionals, the day becomes seamless. ali v . photography

BIG DELICIOUS CATERING 1778 Vail Valley Drive, Vail, CO 81657 â&#x20AC;˘ 704-277-3231 www.bigdeliciouscatering.com For appointments, email hunter@bigdeliciouscatering.com

The Big Delicious team excels at creating unique culinary experiences beyond your expectations. Chef Hunterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to bring out the inner beauty and flavors of foods will leave your guests amazed. The attention given to every detail, from preparation to presentation, ensures each bite is as perfect as the first. Our partnerships with local farmers and ranchers allow us to showcase the amazing ingredients available in our beautiful mountains. Our team has created intimate, traditional dinners as well as executed large elaborate events. We look forward to working with you to create an amazing evening that is just what you imagined.

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HARMONY HEALTH MASSAGE & WELLNESS SPA

Bridal consults 970.453.2257 www.harmonyhealthmassage.com

Discover peaceful radiance. Balance, nourish, and inspire in Harmonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pure spa sanctuary. Our wellness spa menu offers classical massage therapies, manicures, pedicures, botanical skin care and bliss oxygen bar. Custom bridal party packages available. Quality, professional therapies coupled with chemical-free products for a day to cherish forever.Â

ELEGANT PRODUCTIONS www.elegantproductionscolorado.com 970.222.1945 erin@elegantproductionscolorado.com facebook.com/ElegantProductionsColorado instagram.com/elegant_productions vimeo.com/elegantproductions

Elegant Productions creates distinctive wedding films that reflect the style and personality of each of their clients, telling their unique wedding story and capturing the magic and emotion of the day.

PETAL & BEAN 970.485.9106 info@petalandbean.com instagram.com/petalandbean facebook.com/petalandbean pinterest.com/petalandbean

Petal & Bean is Summit County’s premiere provider for custom floral arrangements for your special day. We use only the highest quality, long-lasting premium flowers in our floral recipes … as always, handmade with love at ‘The Barn’ in beautiful Breckenridge. More than floral expertise, Petal and Bean also offers wedding planning services, as well as small décor rental.

Adonye Jaja Photography

Laura Withrow Photography

J. RUSSICK SMITH CELLIST

Breckenridge, CO • 520.470.9062 www.russicksmith.com james@russicksmith.com

J. Russick Smith is a cellist and composer based out of Breckenridge, Colorado. His music provides an intimate backdrop for mountain weddings by pairing endearing melodies with intuitive timing tailored to accent the day’s unique emotional journey.

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MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN BEAUTY WEDDING DAY HAIR AND MAKEUP ON LOCATION BEAUTY SERVICES

970.409.9937 www.majesticmountainbeauty.com majesticmountainbeauty@gmail.com

Formal Hairstyle Specialists and Makeup Artists serving the Summit County area. We offer Airbrush Makeup as well as conventional makeup application. We are a team of stylists who love weddings and can accommodate large parties. We come right to you, no stress and would love to make you look your most beautiful you for your big day!

WOODLAND FLOWERS • WEDDING PLANNING

211A North Main Street, Breckenridge, CO 970.771.2190 • www.woodlandbreck.com

Let Woodland help you create a wedding to remember. Specializing in flowers, we can work with you on every aspect of your wedding. We would love to plan your special day with you.

Helpful Hints

FOR PLANNING EVENTS by kevin abernathy

ou’ve set the date, now it’s time to plan. It can certainly be an overwhelming task ahead of you depending on your vision and other logistical factors. Through the years, I have had the opportunity to work with literally thousands of clients and compiled the best advice, tips and tricks to planning a successful event in the Colorado mountains:

1: Be A Local! There are many wonderful local professionals located within minutes of your location. From tent and party rental specialists, wedding planners, to fullservice caterers, designoriented florists, DJs, transportation companies, officiates and more who have been in the industry for many years. They are extremely familiar with the area, the venues, the policies and one another to make your special day a great experience for all and not just another event. 2: Make It REAL! Don’t kid yourself and think you can plan for 200 people and only pay $5,000 for everything. Be realistic with your budget. Know that

the average wedding in the mountains is for roughly 120160 people and ranges from $18,000 to well over $100,000 (total) depending on your selections and desires. 3: It’s A Numbers Game! Plan for your maximum guest count and biggest expenses. Most vendors do not require your final numbers until the days or weeks prior to the event. You can always modify and hopefully your modifications will lead to the good surprise of a smaller bill! It’s always more difficult to swallow adding on $1,000 because of poor planning. Remember, ultimately, your final bills are directly correlated to your guest count. Don’t be afraid of not inviting someone if you cannot afford it.

4: Take a Smaller Bite! It’s easy one year out to think that you can take on small projects here and there to save a bit of cost. However, the week of, all of these tasks may not feel quite so appealing with family and friends visiting and your vendors may not be able to accommodate or execute for you at the last minute.

5: You Personified! Make this day about you and your significant other. Yes, it’s important to carry on tradition, remember those vegetarians and be kind with your timeline to your elders. However, people are coming to celebrate the two of you. Personalize your taste, likes, hobbies, personalities and create new traditions to make your day memorable and unique.

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STEVE WORRALL PIANIST

Breckenridge, CO • 720.272.3401 BreckPiano@gmail.com facebook.com/BreckPiano

Steve is a classical pianist who studied collegiately, graduating from UC Boulder in 2006. From Chopin to Coldplay, from a baby grand to a portable keyboard, Steve will provide professional music services to complete your wedding ceremony or special event.

FOOD HEDZ WORLD CAFÉ AND CATERING 842 Summit Blvd, Frisco 970.668.2000 • www.foodhedzcafe.com

Voted Best of Summit Caterer 2012-2015 Full Service Catering with Style. Best Chefs America for 2012-2015 Chef David sources fresh, organic & all natural foods from Thailand to the Heartland. Reserve our restaurant for your rehearsal dinner or after wedding brunch 25-45 guests. Taste the Difference.

COLORADO MOUNTAIN EXPRESS LUXURY SUV SERVICE CHARTER VANS AIRPORT SHUTTLES

970.754.7433 www.coloradomountainexpress.com/wedding-services

Colorado Mountain Express provides professional group services for celebrations of up to 2,000 guests. With a fleet of Mercedes Benz Sprinter vans and SUVs, you’ll start your journey off right with CME.

BEAVER RUN RESORT 620 Village Rd. • Breckenridge, CO 855.517.8406 • www.beaverrun.com facebook.com/BeaverRunResort twitter.com/BeaverRun

Providing services as casual or luxurious as you wish, Beaver Run can take care of wedding ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners and brunches in any of our numerous indoor or outdoor locations. On-site wedding specialist available to help plan your special day.

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