St Louis Bride

FALL/WINTER 2020

CE L E

BR ATING

ST. LOUIS WEDDINGS 33 REAL WEDDINGS + STYLED SHOOTS BACKYARD WEDDINGS + ALL ABOUT INVITATIONS + TABLESCAPES 94 RECEPTION VENUES BEACH HONEYMOONS IN MEXICO ESSENTIAL GUIDE + ASK THE FLORISTS WEDDINGS IN THE TIME OF COVID19

$5.00 DISPLAY UNTIL JAN. 15 2021

T h e l a s t fe w m o n t h s h a v e b e e n h a rd . ( L i ke , re a l l y, re a l l y h a rd .)

We t h o u g h t y o u c o u l d u s e s o m e s m i l e s to b r i g h te n y o u r d a y. x

Capturing smiles 2009 Capturing realreal smiles sincesince2009 # t h e A T Pe x p e r i e n c e

from the editor WE’VE GOT YOU As I sit here writing this letter to you, I am reflecting on the last three months as well as looking Lindsey & Chad married May 16, 2020

ahead to the fall and winter season. And, while 2020 has been a year of what would seem to be insurmountable challenges, I’ve seen our wedding community band together and make stuff happen for their couples. The word “pivot” doesn’t begin to describe what couples who were to be married this past spring and their wedding vendors had to do on the fly—and even that is putting it lightly.

My own social media feed went from “What am I going to do? My wedding’s been cancelled!” to “We are happy to announce our elopement and are looking forward to celebrating with family and friends soon!” Wedding vendors connected with one another through multiple Zoom meetings and worked together with solutions for their couples. We’re seeing more weekday weddings, micro events and elopements.

Weekday wedding celebrations are a great way to keep all your beloved wedding vendors

Hayley & Sam married May 30, 2020

together on your special day. Micro weddings are just like what you may have originally planned but on a smaller scale—and let me tell you, intimate events are amazing! Elopements are happening right and left because love is love and gosh dangit, you want to get married and there’s no reason you shouldn’t! You can relax and plan that bigger party a bit later.

We were honored to talk to four St. Louis couples who did just that - they got married in April and May this year. Check out “Weddings in the Time of COVID19,” beginning on page 152 and read about how Hayley and Sam, Lindsey and Chad, Katie and Eric, and Lauren and Chad took No matter where you are on your wedding planning journey, please know this—we really do have the very best wedding industry here in St. Louis. They are working very hard to ensure you have the best day of your life. Trust them to do the job you’ve hired them to do. They’ve got you!

And, we’ve got you, too. Please enjoy this very special edition of Saint Louis Bride. We are

Lauren & Chad married May 24, 2020

proud to be celebrating weddings with the community now for 25 years.

Nancy L. Slade, Editor P.S. A special shout out to all the photographers whose work is gracing our Silver Jubilee cover.

See pages 22 and 24 for the details.

CO N N ECT W I T H U S O N L I N E: Katie & Eric married April 3, 2020

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www.facebook.com/stl.bride

@stlbride www.bridestl.com

(FROM TOP) ©LAUREL COCHRAN PHOTOGRAPHY, WHITE KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY, BTP BY ALLISON, MADDIE HALL, JAIME NICOLE KRAUSE

their lemons and made lemonade. The smiles on their faces say everything.

T H E CA K ERY BA K ERY 1420 Tamm Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63139 • 314.647.6000 • info@thecakerybakery.net • thecakerybakery.net

bellifioristl.com

Photos by Mike Cassimatis

WEDDING CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION BUDGET. PLAN. DESIGN. SOURCE. EXECUTE Contact Jenny Kehm | 314.640.2123 | jenny@beforeidostl.com | www.BeforeIDoSTL.com Photography by L Photographie

CONTENTS SPRING/SUMMER FALL/WINTER 2020 2020

FEATURES 140 110 140 164 146

ARTISTIC SISTER ACT INSPIRATION Tablescapes Three sisters,colored three with creativity fall weddings

WEDDINGS IN THE TIME OF COVID19 Four brides share their wedding stories BEYOND THE DRESSING ROOM FOCUS ON FLORIST Procession-ready gowns Q & A with seven floral pros featured in the showrooms of our favorite salons

REAL WEDDINGS REAL WEDDINGS 34 REAL MOMENTS 33 couples tie the knot REAL MOMENTS 27 couples tie the knot

Alyssa & Scott's September 7th wedding was lit! See their wedding feature on page 62.

Caption

PHOTOGRAPHED BY ELIZABETH LLOYD PHOTOGRAPH

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CONTENTS CONTENTS FALL/WINTER 2020

TIPS & TRENDS 26 108

AROUND TOWN GO BOLD OR GO HOME A styled shoot

132

WEDDING STYLE QUIZ Find your wedding style by taking our quiz

134

COUNTERBALANCED ENCHANTMENT A styled shoot

136

KEEP CALM AND MARRY ON How to truly enjoy your wedding

140

GET LOST IN LUXE A styled shoot

142

101

108

FORAGED TONAL A styled shoot

158

NOTHING FANCY, JUST LOVE A styled shoot

PLANNING 101

SAY SI TO A BEACH HONEYMOON IN MEXICO Spotlight on three beautiful resorts

126

JUST IN CASE Wedding day emergency kit

144 128

128

WEDDING INVITATIONS: YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Experts give the scoop on the important stuff

144

NO PLACE LIKE HOME Everything you need to know about backyard weddings

160

SITES TO BEHOLD Four new places to celebrate

RESOURCES 162

RECEPTION SITES List of venues in an easy-to-read grid

166

CEREMONY SITES

170

SAINT LOUIS BRIDE ESSENTIAL GUIDE A list of top vendors, services, locations and hours

191

MAKING IT LEGAL Applying for a marriage license

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:

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www.facebook.com/stl.bride @stlbride

Photo Credit: Courtney Smith Photography

Photo Credit: Serendipity

Your Dream Wedding Venue Awaits.

Old Hickory Golf Club

events@oldhickorygc.com

Photo Credit: Rachel Myers Photography

Photo Credit: Maggie Medena

The Areas Finest Wedding Venue 6 3 6 . 4 7 7 . 8 9 6 0 | W W W. O L D H I C K O R Y G C . C O M

?

CODY KROGMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

HEATHER ROTH FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY

314.615.2480 23CITYBLOCKS.COM CLARY PFEIFFER PHOTOGRAPHY

EDITORIAL Nancy L. Slade Olivia Rushbrook Ethan Woods

Editor Art Director Publisher Regional Manager-Hospitality, Distribution & Events

Amy Fenster Brown

ADVERTISING Market Manager

Debbie Chervitz 314-588-8313 ext. 4347 debbie.chervitz@morris.com

Market Manager

Sandra Stolberg 314-588-8313 ext. 4348 sandy.stolberg@morris.com

SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE 1006 Olive Street, Suite 202 St. Louis, MO 63101 (314) 588-8313 FAX (314) 588-0920

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Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited.

SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE® is a registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications.

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A Publication of MCC Magazines, LLC A division of Morris Communications Company, LLC 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901

Executive Director Director – Finance & Operations Director of Manufacturing & Production Account Manager Circulation Business Manager

Tina Battock Scott Ferguson Sherry Brown Veronica Brooks Michelle Rowe

MORRIS COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY, LLC Chairman

CEO

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Unless otherwise indicated, email for the above: firstname.lastname@morris.com

P R I N T E D I N T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S

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w h i t e k l u m p p h o t o g r a p h y. c o m 314 . 4 71. 8 0 2 7 mother daughter te am sp e cializing in fine ar t photography in St. Louis and Worldwide

on the cover

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HANNAH BRENTON Married December 7, 2019, Photographed by Emily Broadbent, Emily Broadbent Photography emilybroadbent.com

MAHNOOR MALIK & FARHAN RAZA Married December 22, 2019 Photographed by Abby Erickson, Abby Rose Photography abbyrose-photo.com

JENEE & JEREMY INGRUM Married December 14, 2019 Photographed by Sara Mohamed, Sara Mohamed Photography, LLC saramohamedphoto.com

ASHLEY VICTORIAN Married October 2, 2014 Photographed by Sydney Kell, Chosen Photography chosenphotographyphotos.com

WWW.BRIDESTL.COM • FALL/WINTER 2020

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Lloyd Photography

The Silver Oaks Experience

host your event at the most sought after venue in the midwest

The Chateau

28 private acres French inspired architecture and design 8 ceremony locations Endless photo opportunities

The Chalet

Classy overnight accommodations featuring five private bedrooms, a large great room, a large game room and private deck for entertaining

1168 Highway 100 Pacific, MO 63069 Photo Credit: Rachel Myers Photography

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Lloyd Photography

www.silveroakschateau.com

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Lloyd Photography

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Lloyd Photography

on the cover

MATT & JADE KENNEY Married November 2, 2019 Photographed by Kinzie Tweter, Tweter Visuals twetervisuals.com

TODD TAN & BENJAMIN POWELL Married February 29, 2020 Photographed by Mark Schmitter, M Photo Video mphotovideo.com Submitted by Wedding Planner, Altar’d Events 24

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ALYSSA JACOBSMEYER Married November 2, 2019 Photographed by Lisa Meyer, Lisa Meyer Photography lisameyerphotography.com

ALYSSA & SCOTT RINGKAMP Married August 24, 2019 Photographed by Elizabeth Lloyd, Elizabeth Lloyd Photography elizabethlloydphotography.com

For the Modern Bride 3630 Green Mount Crossing Drive, Shiloh, IL h 618.622.0880 h BridalParlour.net

around town

New and noteworthy happenings in and around St. Louis

The Flower Lab The Flower Lab, a new floral concept by Belli Fiori, offers floral collections in popular colors and styles to fit any wedding vision. These affordable options will give couples the opportunity to pick and choose personal flowers and centerpieces creating their own dream wedding in our "lab". All orders will have a $500 minimum and will need to be picked up from our studio. For more information, visit www.flowerlabstl.com

Keepin' it Safe The AriesCo is now offering tabletop hand sanitizing stations, sneeze guards, non-contact thermometers, line queuing/stanchion rentals and disinfectant event space fogging. They are committed to a safe environment for everyone, and can help with all your

Live Art Having live art at your wedding can look any way you want it to. Artist Florelle Rodenberg has done everything from custom fashion sketches for guests to painted florals and cityscapes. By far, her favorite offering is to live paint weddings as they transpire. Live art at your wedding can be whatever you want it to, from a dramatic abstract painter to a caricature sketch artist. And, guests absolutely love interacting with and seeing the live art develop over the course of the evening. For more information, visit florellestudio.com/weddings 26

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FLORELLE ART BY SARAH HARVEY PHOTO & FILM THE FLOWER LAB PHOTO BY ROCHELLE MAPLES PHOTOGRPHY

wedding rental needs. Call 314-664-6610 or visit ariesco.com

Enchanting

Country Charm

Celebrate in the lush green countryside of Dublin Farms.

Scenic 45-acre Equestrian Estate. Lakeside Ceremony.

Glowing Riding Arena for Receptions up to 500 guests.

Countless Photo Opportunities for Magical Memories.

By appointment. 314.616.4600 8498 Byrnesville Road, House Springs, Missouri 63051

www.dublinfarmsweddings.com Photos by Lisa Meyer Photography

ANNIVERSARIES These wedding pros are celebrating milestone anniversaries!

10

10

YEARS

A BRIDE'S ALLY

YEARS

BELLA BRIDESMAIDS

15

20

YEARS

ROSEWOOD ENSEMBLE

YEARS

RW DESIGNS

GET ELOPED! Ces & Judy’s Catering and The Venue at Maison du Lac are partnering with some of St. Louis’ premier wedding vendors, providing complete elopement and micro-weddings. Ceremonies can be held overlooking the lake or inside the chandelier-lit barn, beside a beautiful geometric arbor. Each couple will have a short, but personalized, wedding ceremony presided by award-winning, certified officiant, STL Wedding Celebrant. Each package includes photography of ceremony, meal for two and a bottle of champagne from Ces & Judy’s Catering and a sweet celebration cake. Want more than just a few witnesses present? They can create a custom Micro-Wedding Package with food and drinks for up to 25 people! Call Amanda cesandjudys.com

The Third Degree Glass Factory

include photographer, bouquet, boutonniere and up to 15 guests.

team is dedicated to amazing experiences even from a distance!

Micro weddings, pop-up, intimate, and mini-monies are their specialty.

TDGF's Virtual Weddings packages include all the setup and

Contact wedding officiant, Carolyn Burke at 314.669.4WED (4933)

coordination needed to host a stress-free wedding ceremony your

or visit elopeinstlouis.com

family and friends can enjoy from the comfort of their homes, plus

The Elopement Co.

lots of amazing extras to make everyone's experience truly one-of-akind! Contact Rachel McCalla, Events Director, at 314-396-2825 or visit stlglass.com

Elope In St. Louis

is a full-service intimate wedding company, which works with couples who desire an intimate wedding, elopement or vow renewal. They design, plan, execute and document the entire process for their couples, by partnering with local creators. The Elopement Co. offers everything from planning and coordination and design services to

Since 2012, Elope in St Louis offers simple and deluxe elopement

things like photography, catering etc. by partnering with local small

packages that are affordable, simple and unique. Deluxe packages

businesses. More information is available at theelopeco.com

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©MARTINA LANOTTE/SHUTTERSTOCK; ROSEWOOD ENSEMBLE PHOTOGRAPHED BY NO HIDDEN PATH PHOTOGRAPHY

Chasnoff for more information, 314-991-6700 or visit

The Franklin Room A Unique World’s Fair Ballroom in Historic Soulard

Character Elegance Charm Visit us at www.thefranklinroom.net | 816 Allen Ave • St Louis 63104 • 314-664-7706

Open by appointment only at our location featuring 6000 square foot designer showroom.

2734 LaSalle St., St. Louis, MO 63104 or our satellite location, The Flower Shop at the Chase Park Plaza 314.772.1301

Accommodates all budgets!

www.ArtistryFlorist.com

Real Moments

Elizabeth & Phillip Nove m be r 1 6 , 2 0 1 9 MIRANDA BOLAND PHOTOGRAPHY

“Enjoy every minute of planning.

It goes by so fast!””

—ELIZABETH’S ADVICE TO BRIDES-TO-BE

DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

St. Francis Borgia Church RECEPTION VENUE: KC Hall FLORIST: Sisterchicks Flowers & More BRIDE’S DRESS: Stella York, Cleo Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE: Wedding Creations BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP:

Lindze Gadcke, Shear Design (hair); Christine Newton (make-up) BRIDESMAIDS HAIR & MAKEUP:

Shear Design (hair) Christine Newton and Martina Kleinheider (make up) BRIDESMAID DRESSES:

Bari Jay, Mia Grace Bridal MUSIC: Complete Weddings and Events

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Real Moments Allison & Bradley December 14, 2019 JUSTINE WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

“While at the hotel, the bridesmaids and I were waiting for the limo. We were all dressed up and ready to go. A little girl stopped by and she thought I was Elsa. I stopped and took some photos with her and talked to her about her day. She had the biggest smile as she walked away with her mom.”

—BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

The Conservatory, St Charles RECEPTION VENUE: La Belle Coeur CATERER: La Belle Coeur Wedding PLANNER: Altar’d Events FLORIST: Roses & Mint BRIDE’S DRESS:

Essence of Australia, The Ultimate Bride GROOM’S: Men’s Warehouse BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Craig Thompson (hair); Eye Do STL (makeup) BRIDESMAID’S HAIR & MAKEUP : Eye Do STL BRIDESMAID DRESSES: David’s Bridal CAKE: Wedding Wonderland; Strange Donuts MUSIC: R ockstar DJ SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

Exclusive Events LINENS: La Belle Coeur RENTALS: Exclusive Events PAPER GOODS: Leighwood Design TRANSPORTATION: Best Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: North of Authentic

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Photography: Kristina Cipolla Photography

Opulence Meets Splendor!

The newest luxury venue to begin your love story in the heart of downtown Saint Louis!

(314) 241-4300 705 Olive Street St. Louis, MO 63101

Info@HotelSaintLouis.com HotelSaintLouis.com Marriott.com/loyalty.mi

Real Moments

Rupal & Brian Septembe 1, 2019 ELIZABETH LLOYD PHOTOGRAPHY

“My favorite moment in our wedding was our first dance.

We took classes at Convergence Dance and Body Center, where they helped us choreograph a dance tailored to our first song “Til Kingdom Come” by Coldplay.

The dance meant so much to us because we worked hard to prepare, it was all up to the two of us, and we executed it really well. But I think it was the most special to me because even though we were surrounded by our guests, it was possibly the only time all day that I really felt like it was just the two of us alone in that intimate moment.”

—GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

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DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

World’s Fair Pavilion RECEPTION VENUE: World’s Fair Pavilion CATERER: Butler’s Pantry WEDDING PLANNER: Altar’d Events FLORIST: The Special Event Florist BRIDE’S DRESS:

Essence of Australia, The Ultimate Bride GROOM’S ATTIRE:

Generation Tux; Lonesome Traveler (ties) BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Heather B Beauty BRIDESMAID’S HAIR & MAKEUP : Heather B Beauty BRIDESMAID DRESSES:

Vera Wang, David’s Bridal CAKE: Sarah’s Cake Shop MUSIC: Mirage Entertainment SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

Exclusive Events; The Aries Company LINENS: Butler’s Panty; BBJ Linen (head table runners and cake table linen) RENTALS : Exclusive Events; The Aries Company PAPER GOODS: ON THREE DESIGNS TRANSPORTATION: St Louis Trolley; Champagne Limousines (Rolls Royce getaway car) VIDEOGRAPHER: Jesse Bader

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Real Moments Mary & Brad December 31, 2019 ZACH DALIN PHOTOGRAPHY

“We wanted our wedding to be one big party. We wanted everyone to be able to eat, drink and dance the night away. We had a cocktail style reception featuring some of our favorite foods—sliders, nachos and tacos! This gave our guests the chance to eat, mingle and party all night long.”

—HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

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DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION: Jewel Box RECEPTION VENUE: Magnolia Hotel St. Louis WEDDING PLANNER: Natalies Brides FLORIST: Walter Knoll Florist BRIDE’S DRESS:

Allure Bridals; Mia Grace Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE: Men’s Wearhouse Brentwood BRIDE’S & BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: The Boulevard Hair Co. BRIDESMAID: WTOO; Mia Grace Bridal CAKE: Cake House Design MUSIC: Matt McCallie ORCHESTRA(CEREMONY);

BOOM STL (reception) LINENS & RENTALS: Weinhardt Rentals TRANSPORTATION: All About You Limos VIDEOGRAPHER: Dancing Shoes Productions SPECIAL TOUCHES: Ices Plain & Fancy

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Real Moments Samantha & Chase December 14, 2019 PHOTOGRAPHED BY STEPH MASAT

“Waiting outside the ceremony for my turn to walk down the aisle. I had a moment to myself before entering, and as I took it all in I realized our vendors, my fiancé, our families, and I had created the exact vision I imagined the day we toured the venue. We were never set on a theme or color scheme, we had just hoped for a cohesive space to celebrate with our family and friends, but there I was standing in my vision that had come to life. It was an overwhelming feeling of gratitude, wonder, and excitement that I’ll never forget.”

—BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION: The Saint Louis

Woman’s Club, Central West End WEDDING PLANNER: Saving Grace Occasions FLORIST : Rosie’s Blooms BRIDE’S DRESS: Moonlight Bridal, Helen’s Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE: Savvi Formalwear BRIDE’S HAIR : Taylor Rosa, The Bend Salon BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Lynn, Lulus CAKE: Sam’s Club MUSIC: Jerez Music LLC (ceremony); The People’s Key & DJ Beezie (Reception) SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

The Saint Louis Woman’s Club

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THE PERFECT PLACE for your special day Enjoy historic elegance with up-to-date amenities, for events from 50 to 500 including: • H I S TO R I C C O N C E RT H A L L F E AT U R I N G B E A U T I F U L W O O D PA N E L E D S TA G E A N D M O D E R N S TA I N E D G L A S S • RU S T I C B A L L RO O M W I T H D R A M AT I C B E A M E D C E I L I N G S , SKYLIGHTS AND HARDWOOD FLOORS • E L E G A N T LY S I T U AT E D L O U I S S P I E R I N G RO O M W I T H S P E C TA C U L A R V I E W S O F T H E C E N T R A L W E S T E N D A N D EXPOSED BRICK • W O R L D - C L A S S A RT G A L L E R I E S • “ S H E L D O N W E D D I N G ” PA C K A G E S AVA I L A B L E • C AT E R I N G K I T C H E N S , O U T S I D E C AT E R E R S W E L C O M E • O N - S I T E PA R K I N G W I T H S E C U R I T Y G U A R D • F U L LY W I - F I E N A B L E D S PA C E S

For more information about hosting your wedding at The Sheldon, contact the Events Department at 314.533.9900 or visit TheSheldon.org.

The Sheldon | 3648 Washington Boulevard | St. Louis, Missouri 63108 | TheSheldon.org

Photos by: Festive Couture Floral, Ray Marklin, Trotter Photo, Hollybright Creative, Kairos Photography

Real Moments Kelsey & Simon November 3, 2019 ABBY ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY

“Turning around to see Kelsey in her dress for the first time during the first look. She was absolutely gorgeous. After our moment, my groomsmen and our fathers started cheering from the balcony that overlooked the courtyard we were in.””

—GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Stone House of St. Charles CATERER: Concetta’s FLORIST:

Roses & Mint (bouquets); Dierberg’s Florist (corsages and boutonnieres) BRIDE’S DRESS: Stella York, Signature Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE:

Men’s Wearhouse, South County BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Nikki Creacy (hair); Sarah Eggleston (makeup) BRIDESMAID DRESSES: David’s Bridal CAKE: Nothing Bundt Cakes

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Something old.

Something new.

Something borrowed.

Something Zoo.

Make your special day even more memorable. Book your wedding festivities, ceremony and reception at the Saint Louis Zoo. You can choose from four exclusive venues that offer not only romance, but excitement as well—The Living World, Lakeside Cafe, River Camp and the Event Tent. Then let our staff of professionals help plan every detail, from catering to animal greeters—and even private tours of many of the Zoo’s 90 acres of habitats. For more information, call (314) 646-4855 or visit stlzoo.org to complete an online rental inquiry form.

Real Moments Mikey & Jake June 1, 2019 PHOTOGRAPHED BY VIDEO GATE STUDIO

“Directly after the ceremony, we went to the second floor to enjoy our first moments being married together, alone, just the two of us.

We ate and enjoyed some champagne as we relished in our excitement, like two little kids. It was the best moment of my life.””

—BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

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DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

The Caramel Room at Bissinger’s Chocolate Factory CATERER : 23 City Blocks Catering WEDDING PLANNER:

Events By Lin; Lesley Herrel (day of ) FLORIST: Belli Fiori BRIDE’S DRESS : Lillian West, Ivory & Lace Bridal Boutique, Kansas City, MO GROOM’S ATTIRE: Ike Behar BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Amanda Horstmann (hair); Liz Foley (makeup) BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: Belleza Bridal and Salon (hair); Liz Foley (makeup) BRIDESMAID DRESSES : Adrianna Pappel CAKE: Sarah’s Cake Shop MUSIC: Dragon Duo (ceremony); Fat Pocket (reception) SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

All Seasons Party Linen Rental Inc. LINENS: All Seasons Party Linen Rental Inc. PAPER GOODS: HiHoHelio TRANSPORTATION: JED Limousine VIDEOGRAPHER: Al at STL Studios

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Real Moments Alex & Lucas June 22, 2019 PHOTOGRAPHED BY THE MARIONS

“I was so grateful to my wedding planner, Wendy, from The Savvy Bride. I just told her the vibe we wanted for the wedding and a few general ideas and she directed us to great vendors and shops.”

—HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Sunflower Hill Farm CATERER: Ces & Judy Catering WEDDING PLANNER: The Savvy Bride FLORIST: Snapdragon Studio BRIDE’S DRESS: Lihi Hod Dreams, Alice & Ivory Boutique, Chicago GROOM’S ATTIRE: Men’s Warehouse BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

DanielleStyle CAKE: Sarah’s Cake Shop DESSERTS:

Nathaniel Reid Bakery; Sucrose Bakery MUSIC: Diamond Empire Band SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Renown Rentals RENTALS: Renown Rentals PAPER GOODS: Minted

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Real Moments Katie & Sam November 9, 2019 CARLEIGH MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

“Take as many moments as you can to be alone with your spouse. The day will fly by, so be sure to soak it in together! We went up to the balcony during our reception to reflect on the day while we watched everyone dance, and that moment is one of our most cherished memories.

Relax & let yourself enjoy all the hard work you put into planning, and don’t stress if something goes wrong. Most importantly, do not forget to eat!”

—KATIE’S ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE

DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

Graham Chapel at Washington University RECEPTION VENUE: Wild Carrot CATERER: Gregory’s Creative Cuisine WEDDING PLANNER:

Amanda Schneider with Proposing Dreams FLORIST: SS Wedding Design BRIDE’S DRESS: Eddy K, Clarice’s Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE: Generation Tux BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Sara McKenna (hair); Chelsea O’Hare (makeup) BRIDESMAIDS HAIR & MAKEUP: Heather Blankenship (hair); Shelly Bledsoe (makeup) BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Jenny Yoo CAKE: Jen Kennedy (bride’s sister-in-law) MUSIC: The Quartette Accord (ceremony); Rockstar DJs (reception) LINENS: Big Red Events TRANSPORTATION: Platinum Limo STL VIDEOGRAPHER: Craig & David Kennedy (bride’s family)

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Extraordinary Space, Extraordinary Events

Real Moments

Natalie & Brice September 7, 2019 RACHAEL ELANA PHOTOGRAPHY

“Be true to who you are. It’s really easy to get caught up in all the wedding trends and what other people are doing, but your wedding should be a reflection of who you are. If you make a list of things that are important to you as a couple, it’s much easier to keep your vision in mind throughout the planning process. There are no right or wrong decisions in wedding planning, just ones that are more or less applicable to you.

And, if you have the budget for a wedding planner or a day-of coordinator, they will make your life so much easier!”

—NATALIE’S ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE

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DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Caramel Room CATERER: 23 City Blocks Catering WEDDING PLANNER:

Signed Sealed Delivered Events FLORIST: Urban Buds BRIDE’S DRESS: Liancarlo, Elizabeth John Bridal Boutique GROOM’S ATTIRE: The Black Tux; The Lonesome Traveler (custom ties) BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Savanah Summer Luxury Hair and Makeup BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaid CAKE: 23 City Blocks Catering MUSIC: Rosewood Ensemble (ceremony); Hollywood 5 Band (reception) SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

Grand Rental; Main Street Abbey in-house up lighting PAPER GOODS: Minted TRANSPORTATION: Best Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: Sparked Media Collective OFFICIANT: S t. Louis Officiant PHOTOBOOTH: 2 Chics and a Photobooth FAVORS: Bissinger’s Chocolates UNITY CEREMONY :

Third Degree Glass Factory

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Real Moments Olivia & Steven November 9, 2019 PHOTOGRAPHED BY COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS

“We bought a couple Polaroid cameras for people to take personal photos for a more intimate feel. The idea was for people to take photos home and to leave one for us to remember all the behind the scene moments.”

—HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Blue Sky Vineyards, Makanda, IL CATERER: Artisan Kitchen WEDDING PLANNER: Rebecca Newburn FLORIST:

The Barefoot Florist / A Splendid Affair BRIDE’S DRESS: Martina Liana, Town & Country Bridal Boutique GROOM’S ATTIRE: StudioSuits (suit); Dazi (tie) BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Destiny Stanley BRIDESMAID DRESSES:

Lulus

CAKE: Creative Expressions Cakes MUSIC: Complete Weddings + Events RENTALS:

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Nadine and Mina (glassware)

Rent our Cupcake Truck for your event!

As Seen On Food Network!

Winners of Cupcake Wars

1801 S. 9th St. (in historic Soulard) www.thesweetdivine.com info@thesweetdivine.com | 314-669-9339

Real Moments Tracy & Bobby October 26, 2019 PHOTOGRAPHED BY YOUR STORY PHOTO AND CINEMA

“We had a traditional Filipino Catholic ceremony. We had several Godparents to carry the coins (arraz), place the laso (rope) and velo (veil) on both of us during the ceremony. We had fun planning the wedding ourselves, so we selected the venues and vendors that would really get our vision. We made sure that the food, color schemes, flowers, music were the ones we both love to make it really ours.”

—HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

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DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION: Shrine of St. Joseph RECEPTION VENUE:

The Saint Louis Woman’s Club WEDDING PLANNER:

The Bridal Butler (day of ) FLORIST: Botanicals Design Studio BRIDE’S DRESS: Oleg Cassini, David’s Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE: Savvi Formal Wear BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Megan & Devin, Hannah Change Beauty BRIDESMAID:

Dresses purchased in Philippines CAKE: Wedding Wonderland MUSIC CEREMONY: Maribeth McMahon (soloist), Darren Modde (organist), Emily Bowman (violinist), Raya Iqbal (cellist) MUSIC RECEPTION: Pro Sound DJ and Rental SPECIALTY LIGHTING :

Millennium Productions PAPER GOODS: Zazzle TRANSPORTATION:

A Perfect Touch Limo and Party Bus VIDEOGRAPHER: Wedding Films by Junsue

FALL/WINTER 2020 • WWW.BRIDESTL.COM

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Real Moments Megan & Matthew January 18, 2020 ERIN STUBBLEFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

“It was important to us to have a really great band. We wanted everyone on their feet dancing and really celebrating in this moment with us! Looking around at everyone having such a great time was a pretty special moment for us both.”

—MEGAN’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

Our Lady of the Pillar Catholic Church RECEPTION VENUE: Missouri Athletic Club FLORIST: Ashley MacDonald Floral Designs BRIDE’S DRESS: Maiden Voyage GROOM’S ATTIRE: Stallone’s Formal Wear BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Danielle Style BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids CAKE: Missouri Athletic Club MUSIC: Rendezvous, Chicago, IL PAPER GOODS: M Haley Design PHOTOBOOTH: Shutter Booth TRANSPORTATION: St. Louis Trolley VIDEOGRAPHER: Millennium Productions

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MEMORIES ARE FOREVER

Real Moments Casey & Kevin December 6, 2019 KATHLEEN MORTLAND PHOTOGRAPHY

“The second the doors opened for Casey and her dad...it felt like forever waiting for those doors to open! We chose not to see each other prior to that moment on our wedding day, and I had no idea what to expect. It was the most special moment of the whole evening. I have never seen a more gorgeous woman in the most badass dress in my life.”

—GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

St. Joseph Catholic Church RECEPTION: The Ritz Carlton FLORIST: Bloomin’ Buckets BRIDE’S DRESS:

Berta, Chic Parisien, Miami, FL BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Christine Diaz, Amped Artistry, Naples, FL BRIDESMAIDS HAIR & MAKEUP: Christine Diaz Amped Artistry (makeup); Katie Bauman & Natalie Beile, Identity Salon (hair) BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Hayley Paige, Maiden Voyage Bridal CAKE: Love & Food LLC STATIONERY: Penn and Paperie MUSIC: The Quartette Accord (ceremony); Linda DeFranco, grand pianist (cocktail hour); Giffin & the Gargoyles (reception TRANSPORTATION: JED Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: Gaadt Productions

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THE DOGWOOD IN THE GROVE IS A MODERN, LUXE VENUE WITH A COSMOPOLITAN VIBE. THE PERFECT PLACE TO MAKE A BOLD STATEMENT FOR YOUR EXTRAORDINARY EVENT WITH INNOVATIVE CUISINE AND ELEVATED DESIGN.

OUR PASSION IS PROVIDING EXCEPTIONAL FOOD AND DRINKS, PRESENTED BEAUTIFULLY AND SERVED IMPECCABLY. Photo Credit Nora Sandoval

Photo Credit: Emily Broadbent Photography

2020 DATES AVAILABLE Exclusively Owned and Catered by

www.TheDogwoodSTL.com | @TheDogwoodSTL | @TheSocialAffairSTL

Real Moments Alyssa & Scott August 24, 2019 ELIZABETH LLOYD PHOTOGRAPHY

“My most memorable moment was the entire ceremony, which I didn’t expect. I was pretty nervous beforehand, thinking about things that wouldn’t truly matter. We did not share a “first look” so we were genuinely surprised and overwhelmed with emotion when we locked eyes. As soon as I saw him, everything else faded away.

We were smiling and laughing through the whole ceremony. I remember my cheeks were sore because I was smiling so much!”

—BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

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DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Silver Oaks Chouteau CATERER : Sugarfire Catering FLORIST: Wildflowers BRIDE’S DRESS: Hayley Paige, Maiden Voyage GROOM’S ATTIRE: Vera Wang, Men’s Wearhouse BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Belleza Salon BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Hayley Paige, Maiden Voyage CAKE: Sarah’s Cake Shop MUSIC: Landolfi Quartet (ceremony); Complete Weddings & Events (ceremony) SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Complete Weddings & Events SPECIAL TOUCHES: WedPets

FALL/WINTER 2020 • WWW.BRIDESTL.COM

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Real Moments

Danielle & Devan November 23, 2019 JESSICA LAUREN PHOTOGRAPHY

“Enjoy every moment of the day. Don’t worry about the little details; everything will work out one way or another. This day is all about you and your significant other.”

—DANIELLE’S ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE

DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Bogey Hills Country Club CATERER: Bogey Hills Country Club FLORIST: Roses & Mint BRIDE’S DRESS:

Essence of Australia, The Ultimate Bride GROOM’S ATTIRE:

Thros Clothing Company Suit BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP:

Brooke, Belleza Salon BRIDESMAID DRESSES:

Morilee, Mia Grace Bridal CAKE: Sweets to Remember MUSIC CEREMONY: Matt Wynn, acoustic guitar (ceremony); Juke Box Productions (reception) PHOTOBOOTH: Fish Eye Fun TRANSPORTATION: JED Limousine VIDEOGRAPHER: Sarah Kellie Productions

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YOU’VE MADE YOUR VOWS. NOW MAKE HISTORY. wedded Contact Rebecca Laugeman: rlaugeman@mohistory.org • 314.454.3159

Real Moments Chelsea & Jim October 26, 2019 L PHOTOGRAPHIE

“My most cherished moment of the entire wedding day was walking down the aisle during our wedding ceremony. Seeing Jim’s smile and joyful tears along with all of our family members, friends and the gorgeous array of flowers in the church was truly a breathtaking experience. I will never forget the feeling of hearing the beautiful music, walking in my wedding dress and having the comfort of my dad’s arm during that magical moment before I met Jim at the altar. ” —BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE EVENT

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DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

St. Joseph’s Church RECEPTION VENUE: Saint Louis Club WEDDING PLANNER: St. Louis Wedding Consultants FLORIST: The Special Event Florist BRIDE’S DRESS: Berrybridge BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Ernesto (hair); Jacque (makeup) BRIDESMAID’S HAIR & MAKEUP:

Ashley & Kris (hair); Jean (makeup) CAKE: Saint Louis Club CAKE POPS: Cake Pops by Liz MUSIC: Adam Thome, organ, Lisa Kristen, flute, Tim Eshing, violin, Nischita Nannapaneni, violin, Scott Kennebeck, cantor (ceremony); KC Flow (reception) LINENS : BBJ Linens PAPER GOODS: Paper Patch TRANSPORTATION: Best Transportation

FALL/WINTER 2020 • WWW.BRIDESTL.COM

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Real Moments Nina & Christopher November 30, 2019 LISA MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

“We are both from St. Louis and the city holds a special place in our hearts. Our ceremony was at St. Ambrose on the Hill, where several generations of my Nina’s family have been married.

After the ceremony, guests were invited to a casual lunch at a bar across the street. We chose to have our dinner reception at a historic venue in downtown St. Louis. Also, it was important to us that our guests enjoy themselves. We made sure the wedding formalities didn’t take too long, and we picked songs we knew would keep our guests on the dance floor. Months later, our guests are still telling us how much fun they had.”

—NINA’S ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE

DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

St. Ambrose Catholic Church

RECEPTION VENUE:

Crystal Ballroom, Marriott St. Louis Grand FLORIST: Stems Florist BRIDE’S DRESS: Anais Anette, Bridal Parlour GROOM’S ATTIRE: Macy’s BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Emily Miller CAKE: Celebrating Life Cake Boutique MUSIC: Gary Scott, pianist & Heather Wessels, vocalist (ceremony); Millennium Productions (reception) SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Millennium Productions RENTALS: Stems Florist PAPER GOODS: Minted TRANSPORTATION: St. Louis Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: Lisa Meyer Photography

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Credits: Trotter Photo, Sincerely Yours Bridal, Makeup Artistry by A and C

Ayla’s Floral Studio 417 W. Orchard Ave • Ballwin, Missouri 63011

636.394.1400 www.afloralstudio.com

Real Moments Claire & Connor February 29, 2019 PHOTOGRAPHED BY ENDY EVENTS

“Many people wouldn’t want to get married on leap year because we will only actually celebrate our anniversary every 4 years. We loved that idea and wanted to be unique compared to other couples.

Connor came up with a hashtag that was clever for the day and everyone loved it #TakeALeapWithTheLadigs” —HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Neo on Locust

CATERER: Russos FLORIST: 100 West Floral Design BRIDE’S DRESS: Mia Grace Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE: Jos A Bank BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Amanda Baker BRIDESMAIDS HAIR & MAKEUP:

Lindsay Budde

BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Mia Grace CAKE: Russos MUSIC: Colleen Stumbo, Harpist (ceremony); Endy Events DJ, (reception) SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR : Endy Events PHOTOBOOTH: Endy Events VIDEOGRAPHER: Endy Events

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Real Moments Jennifer & Craig November 9, 2019 NO HIDDEN PATH PHOTOGRAPHY

“Because we were joining two families, we sought every opportunity to include each of our four children and highlight them throughout the event. Each of them selected their favorites from the menu items, were a part of our vows and even designed a layer of the cake.”

—HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

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DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATION: Webster

Groves Private Residence CATERER: Butlers Pantry WEDDING PLANNER: Simcha’s Events FLORIST: Belli Fiori BRIDE’S DRESS: Vera Wang, NYC GROOM’S ATTIRE: Men’s Wearhouse, Brentwood BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Danielle Style (hair); Dominique Ruiz (makeup) CAKE: The Cakery MUSIC CEREMONY: Rosewood Ensemble MUSIC RECEPTION: DownTown Band, Nashville SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Exclusive Events TENT: Premier Rental PAPER GOODS: M Haley Design PHOTOBOOTH: Shutter Booth TRANSPORTATION : Best Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: Vimage SPECIAL TOUCHES: STL Game Rentals VALET: MVP

FALL/WINTER 2020 • WWW.BRIDESTL.COM

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Real Moments

Aubrey & Cole August 9, 2019 CMS PHOTOGRAPHY + FILM LLC

“Exchanging handwritten vows in front of friends and family.”

Bride’s most memorable moment.”

—BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Piazza Messina CATERER: Russo’s Catering BRIDE’S DRESS:

Allure Bridals, White Traditions GROOM’S ATTIRE: Savvi Formalwear BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Julius Monroe Salon and Spa BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Azazie CAKE: Russo’s Catering MUSIC: Millennium Productions STATIONERY: Minted

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Celebrate your love in monumental ways.

Photo by Pattengale Photography

Start your new chapter on our rooftop terrace overlooking the Gateway Arch or celebrate in an opulent ballroom. From superb catering to special guestroom rates, we will handle everything, so you can focus on making memories. You’ll even earn free honeymoon nights at Hyatt Hotels worldwide.*

For more information, visit hyattregencystlouis.com 315 Chestnut Street | St. Louis, MO 63102 | 314.342.4655 *For more details visit HyattWeddings.com The HYATT trademark and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation or its affiliates. Š2019 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

Real Moments Katie & Matt September 21, 2019 L PHOTOGRAPHIE

“Once we had arrived at the reception at the Chase Park Plaza, Matt and I didn’t have long before we were going to be announced and start our first dance. While all of the bridal party lined up, we were hyping each other up, going over the steps from our lessons, and all the small corrections from our teacher. Matt and I just had the sweetest moment of a high five and “We got this”. And we did!

As our song, Love Someone, by Lukas Graham played, we felt the love and confidence of all our family and friends when they cheered for us at each step and turn. Nothing compares to how perfect the moment felt while we danced together.”

—BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

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DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION: Our Lady of Lourdes RECEPTION VENUE:

Starlight Ballroom, The

Chase Park Plaza WEDDING PLANNER: Michelle Brugere FLORIST: Bloomin Buckets BRIDE’S DRESS: Angelina Bridal Couture, The Enchanted Bride GROOM’S ATTIRE: The Black Tux BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: David’s in Clayton (Hair); Bliss Beauty Bar (Makeup) BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: Bliss Beauty Bar (Hair & Makeup) BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Vera Wang, David’s Bridal CAKE: Chase Park Plaza MUSIC: Mary Weber, Mary Zubert, Kris Suntrup (ceremony); Lustre Lights (reception) RENTALS: Eye Candy Rentals PAPER GOODS: Paper Source PHOTOBOOTH: Shutterbooth TRANSPORTATION: St. Louis Trolley LLC VIDEOGRAPHER: Millennium Productions

FALL/WINTER 2020 • WWW.BRIDESTL.COM

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Real Moments Kelsey & Nick October 5, 2019 JESSICA LAUREN PHOTOGRAPHY

“Having all of our favorite people in one place for an entire day. No one was missing and everyone was there to celebrate. It was amazing.””

—GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

St. Joan of Arc Church RECEPTION VENUE: Studio Inn St. Albans CATERER: Catering St. Louis FLORIST: Always in Bloom BRIDE’S DRESS: 8th Avenue Villager,Quincy, IL GROOM’S ATTIRE: Men’s Warehouse BRIDE’S HAIR: Jane Sigmund BRIDESMAIDS HAIR & MAKEUP: Bride (makeup); Jane Sigmund& Alana Cleeton (hair) Bridesmaid (makeup); Gabrielle Buckmann BRIDESMAID DRESSES:

Adrianna Papell, Bella Bridesmaids CAKE: The Cakery MUSIC: Complete Weddings & Events SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

Kim Long, Mother of the Bride TRANSPORTATION: Trans Do VIDEOGRAPHER: Sydney Radetic

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So good they won’t know it ’s gluten free  @newdaygf  newdayglutenfree

7807 Clayton Rd, Clayton, MO 63117 314-833-5180 | www.newdayglutenfree.com

Real Moments

Merris & Cedric September 28, 2019 PINXIT PHOTOGRAPHY & CINEMATOGRAPHY

“The venue itself was very significant for us. I grew up in a historical neighborhood in the Central West End, so it was a dream of mine to get married in a historic venue in Saint Louis. The custom monogram placed throughout the venue and even on our cake really personalized the event for us. I also walked down the aisle to a saxophone instrumental of “Moon River”, which is featured in my favorite movie, Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Additionally, we decided to incorporate some form of blue into our wedding colors to represent my husband’s membership in the Phi Beta Sigma, Fraternity, Inc.” —HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

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DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Saint Louis Woman’s Club WEDDING PLANNER: Be My Guest Event Production & Design FLORIST: The Special Event Florist BRIDE’S DRESS: Allure Bridals, Clarice’s Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE: Todd’s Clothiers & Tailor Shop; Keefe Cravat (bowtie) BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Jon Tomas Salon & Spa BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Azazie CAKE: Sarah’s Cake Shop MUSIC: DJ Phil Ellington SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

Aries Event Co. LINENS: Personal Touches by Jeanetta SPECIAL TOUCHES: DS Creations (Napkin Embroidery & Custom Pillows) RENTALS: Personal Touches by Jeanetta PAPER GOODS: Simply Torn Art & Design (Day of ); Minted (invitations) MONOGRAM: Shuler Studio PHOTOBOOTH: Megalux Photobooth VIDEOGRAPHER: Boyd Media STL

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Real Moments

Andrea & Brad October 26, 2019 KELLY PARK PHOTOGRAPHY

“As the Bride and Groom, we distributed the Communion to all our guests at our ceremony. We also had personalized cups for everyone to drink from on the dance floor and then take home with them at the end of the night.”

—HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

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DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

St. Clement of Rome

Catholic Church RECEPTION VENUE: The Coronado CATERER: Butler’s Pantry FLORIST: Blooms BRIDE’S DRESS: Clarice’s Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE: Stallone’s Formal Wear BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Looks by Lisa & Co. BRIDESMAID DRESSES:

Azazie

CAKE: Sarah’s Cake Shop MUSIC: The Spectrum Band TRANSPORTATION: Anheuser Busch Trolley

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Real Moments Alyssa & Alex March 30, 2019 SWITZERFILM

“My goal for the wedding was to stick to my husband and I’s contemporary taste as well as for it to feel like a party. For the decor the contemporary aspects came into play by keeping everything in black, white, and silver. We threw in some sparkle as well as bling here and there to make things pop, but overall stuck with neutral colors, which made things sleek. As for the party aspect of things we gave champagne out to every guest as they walked into our ceremony, had a huge, customized bar in the back as well as seating by the dance floor so guests would either be on the dance floor or by the bar. My goal was to not have people go back to their dining seats after dinner was over and continue to mingle with people they may or may not know during the event.”

—HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Ritz Carlton

WEDDING PLANNER: Cosmopolitan Events FLORIST: Belli Fiori BRIDE’S DRESS : Ines Di Santo, The Ultimate

Bride Chicago GROOM’S ATTIRE: Nordstrom BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Savanah Summer Luxury Hair & Makeup BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Dessy, Bella Bridesmaids CAKE: Ritz Carlton MUSIC: Patrick Lentz Band SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Exclusive Events LINENS: BBJ Linens (head table) RENTALS: Grand Rentals (chargers) PAPER GOODS: Service Bureau Ice Sculpture: Ice Visions TRANSPORTATION: A Perfect Touch VIDEOGRAPHER: Switzerfilm

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THE ART OF WEDDINGS Make your wedding at the Saint Louis Art Museum a masterpiece.

• Ceremonies • Receptions • Rehearsal Dinners

Call 314.655.5387 today to schedule your tour!

EVENTS

One Fine Arts Dr, Saint Louis, MO 63110 314.655.5387 | gkveton@ciemail.com www.slam.org |

@slam.events

Real Moments

Sheryl & Danny May 26, 2019 IRISH EYES PHOTOGRAPHY

“The most memorable moment for me was reading our vows to each other and the first look that we did before the ceremony.

I’ll remember the way she just glowed forever.”

—GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

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DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Redemption Ranch CATERER: Splendid Catering Services FLORIST: She’s Crafty Event and Floral Design BRIDE’S DRESS:

Essence of Australia, White Traditions GROOM’S ATTIRE:

Giorgio Fiorelli suit, St. Louis Suit Co Inc. BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Sierra Juengst (hair); Kasey Lamm Stoudt (makeup) BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Eliza J, Nordstrom CAKE: Tiffanie Dieckhaus MUSIC: Tom Slyman, Accoustic Weddings (ceremony); Todd Holm, Redemption Ranch (reception) SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

Redemption Ranch RENTALS: Expert Rentals (ceremony chairs) PHOTOBOOTH:

Shenanigator, Irish Eyes Photography TRANSPORTATION: First Student VIDEOGRAPHER:

Ann Marie Media Productions

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Real Moments Markeyah & Eric October 18, 2019 LANCE OMAR THURMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

“Our Mommy-Daughter Dance was unique and special and meant so much to me. My mother has been there for me whenever I needed her, and she worked so hard to raise my brothers and I. This moment allowed us to just be free, and to celebrate how her seed blossomed. As we danced side by side, the room was full of love, laughter and smiles. This moment changed the dynamic of negativity that sometimes surrounds Mother and Daughter relationship. You only get one Mama! I’m grateful I have the perfect memory.”

—BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

DETAILS CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

Andres Sunset Hills Banquets & Catering WEDDING PLANNER: Kimberly Creswell FLORIST: Bandit Kreations BRIDE’S DRESS: Kitty Chen, Mia Grace Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE: Savvi Formalwear BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP:

Kayla Janae (hair); Joy Loveless (makeup) BRIDESMAIDS HAIR & MAKEUP: Kayla Janae (hair); Joy Loveless Team (makeup) BRIDESMAID DRESSES: David’s Bridal CAKE: Harter Bakery Dessert Table; Lita’s Sweet Treats MUSIC:

HypemanKel, Host/Soloist; Tawaine, Pianist; Talichia, Soloist; Krisstyle, Hot 104.1 DJ

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Real Moments Sana & Yasir December 28, 2019 PHOTOGRAPHED BY RAFIQ FILMS

“The day and the days leading up to it are going to be hectic, plan to get sufficient rest. No matter what happens, remember to celebrate it in your style; clothes, hair, makeup, and everything else is secondary to you and your mood. This day is not to worry about others, it is about welcoming a new person to your life and family, and being a part of theirs. Cheers to that!

—SANA’S ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE

DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

Hilton St Louis Frontenac CATERER: Farzana Zahir WEDDING PLANNER:

Uzma Naim & Faraz Masood FLORIST: Fatima Designs BRIDE’S DRESS:

Amelia Couture, Calgary, Canada GROOM’S ATTIRE: J abeens, Karachi, Pakistan BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP:

Anjuli Year MD, The Makeup Doc BRIDESMAIDS HAIR & MAKEUP:

Jasmine Santimaw BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Karachi, Pakistan CAKE:

Celebrating Life Cake Boutique DJ Anna Arceos Events

MUSIC:

SPECIALTY LIGHTING & DECOR:

Fatima Designs

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Happily Ever After Busch Stadium has hosted some of St. Louis’ finest moments. Let us make your wedding, reception or rehearsal dinner a once-in-a-lifetime affair. Our expert team will work with you to create a unique celebration offering a variety of elegant settings, gourmet dining and panoramic views that are undeniably St. Louis and absolutely unforgettable.

CARDINALS.COM/EVENTS

Real Moments

Tiffany & Reggie July 19, 2019 ABBIE TAKES PICTURES

“Allow your husband-to-be to be part of the planning process. It’s his big day too and the special event should be a reflection of the both of you. Even if he may hand you the reigns and allow you to design the wedding of your dreams, be sure to incorporate elements of him too. He will appreciate it (and he cares) more than you know!”

—TIFFANY’S ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE

DETAILS WEDDING & RECEPTION VENUE:

Wild Carrot

CATERER: Hollyberry Catering WEDDING PLANNER: Altar’d Events FLORIST: Stem’s Florist; Wild Carrot BRIDE’S DRESS: Martina Liana GROOM’S ATTIRE:

Savvi Formalwear

BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Tiffany J. Salon (hair); Blush on the Boulevard (makeup) BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Bill Levkoff, The Bridal Boutique, Columbia, MD CAKE: The Blue Owl Bakery MUSIC: Music Unlimited; Tish Haynes Keys (ceremony & reception); DJ Ricardo Carter (reception) LINENS & RENTALS: Weinhardt Party Rentals PAPER GOODS: Minted TRANSPORTATION:

A Perfect Touch Limo and Party Bus SPECIAL TOUCHES:

Spoken Word Artist Kristy Cotton

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Lisa Meyer Photography

636.317.1222 4401 MCCLAY ROAD ST. CHARLES, MO 63304 WWW.SHOFSC.COM RUTH@SHOFSC.COM - Beautiful Grounds -

- Timber-Framed Hall -

Photo Elegance

- Bridal Suite -

Photo Elegance

- Groom’s Quarters -

Photo Elegance

Amanda Tindall Photography

Real Moments Allison & Brandon August 3, 2019 WILL JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY

“We wrote our own vows and the Groom’s cake was a St Louis Cardinal baseball theme in honor of his extreme allegiance to his favorite team! We also had photos of us at each age that matched the table number on every table. In keeping with the “Summer Garden in the City” theme, we offered a signature drink called “Something Blue” which was a Blueberry Mojito.”

—HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

Faith Des Peres Presbyterian Church, St Louis, MO RECEPTION VENUE: Windows on Washington WEDDING COORDINATOR: Beth Willock FLORIST: Belli Fiori BRIDE’S DRESS:

Stella York, The Ultimate Bride GROOM’S ATTIRE: Men’s Wearhouse BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

Celeslie’s Salon and Spa BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Morilee by Madeline Gardner, The Bridal Shoppe CAKE: Sarah’s Cake Shop MUSIC: The Rosewood Ensemble (ceremony); Millennium Productions (reception) LINENS & RENTALS: Weinhardt Party Rentals PAPER GOODS: Simply Torn PHOTOBOOTH:

Complete Weddings and Events TRANSPORTATION: Platinum Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: STL Studios

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The difference is night and day

Keith Lee Studios

Perfect for intimate weddings, rehearsal dinners, brunches and guestroom accomodations.

Contact the Moonrise Hotel’s wedding specialists 314-685-3418 or Sales@MoonriseHotel.com

MoonriseHotel.com

6177 Delmar in The Loop, St. Louis, Missouri 63112

Real Moments Alison & Luke May 11, 2019 PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOSEPHINE HAVLAK

“Alison’s sister, Claire, hand painted butterfly boxes as table favors, featuring the butterflies they collected as children. Alison grew up loving insects and nature and is now Associate Professor of Biology at University of Texas, Arlington. Claire also made Alison and Luke’s wedding cake, incorporating succulents which were a nod to Alison’s time in Arizona with Luke.”

—HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

DETAILS CEREMONY LOCATION:

St. Anselm Catholic Church

RECEPTION VENUE: Missouri Botanical Garden CATERER: Catering St. Louis Events WEDDING COORDINATOR: Cosmopolitan Events FLORIST: Mary Tuttles BRIDE’S DRESS:

Pronovias Barcelona, Bo Lee Bridal, San Francisco BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP:

DanielleStyle BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Lulus CAKE: La Bonne Bouchee MUSIC: Griffin & the Gargoyles PAPER GOODS: Minted TRANSPORTATION: Best Transportation

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Real Moments Caitlin & Govind April 20, 2019 JULIA NOACK PHOTOGRAPHY

“We thought it was important to combine aspects from both our cultures, so we had one ceremony incorporating Hindu and Christian traditions.”

—HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

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DETAILS SANGEET LOCATION:

612 North Event Space

CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

St. Louis Union Station Grand Hall CATERER: St. Louis Union Station; Taj Palace Catering WEDDING PLANNER: Kristin Ashley Events FLORIST: The Special Event Florist BRIDE’S DRESS: Manish Malhotra (ceremony lengha); Essence of Australia, Diana’s Bridal (reception) GROOM’S ATTIRE: Manyavar Mohey (ceremony sherwani); Savvi Formalwear (reception) BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: D errick Sharp (hair); Priscilla Brinkmann (makeup) BRIDESMAIDS HAIR & MAKEUP:

Chey Fox, Katie Ferrario, Priscilla Brinkmann, Derrick Sharp (lead hairstylist) CAKE: Sarah’s Cake Shop MUSIC : The Rosewood Ensemble (ceremony); DJ Blaze STL, Blaze Entertainment, Raj Singh (reception) SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

Big Bow Events RENTALS: Big Bow Events PAPER GOODS: Universal Exports PHOTOBOOTH: DJ Blaze STL, Blaze Entertainment, Raj Singh TRANSPORTATION: St. Louis Carriage Company VIDEOGRAPHER: Millennium Productions FALL/WINTER 2020 • WWW.BRIDESTL.COM

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Say Si to aBeach Honeymoon in Mexico

BY JACKIE TUCKER

©PALAFITOS

Gorgeous sunset views, warm ocean water, miles of pristine white beaches: There’s a reason why Mexico is a popular honeymoon destination. It’s the perfect post-wedding getaway. Relax and destress with sun, sand, surf, delicious food and a vibrant culture. Expect long, leisurely days of enjoying each other’s company, where the only decision you’ll have to make is whether to lounge on the shore or go for a swim.

When honeymooning south of the border, Mike Schellhase from Travel Haus St. Louis recommends Karisma Resorts. “Karisma is known for its intimate all-inclusive, adults-only hideaways. They have something for everyone, and the flight to Mexico is only a couple of hours from St. Louis.” Whether you're looking for a full-service resort or a boutique casita, Mexico has everything that couples want when they think of a dreamy beach honeymoon.

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Honeymoon

PALAFITOS – PLAYA DEL CARMEN Picture this: A soft breeze brushes your hair lightly from your face as you and your new hubby watch the sun set over crystal turquoise waters from your jacuzzi for two in your overwater bungalow. You clink champagne glasses and realize you need a refill but don’t feel like getting out of the jacuzzi.

No worries. Your personal butler comes along and refills your glasses before making sure you have plenty of towels and the bed is turned down.

Palafitos by Karisma with its glass bottom floors and direct ladder access to the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea is the ultimate in extravagance. Schellhase raves about the resort. “Palafitos has the first overwater bungalows anywhere in North America. It’s my new favorite place. They are spectacular!”

The next morning you find that your butler has readied your kayak for the day with a fully customized beach picnic. You paddle a short way to the sugary beaches of Maroma Beach, voted

by Travel Channel as one of the top 10 beaches in the world. Completely surrounded by the beauty of the sea, you settle in for the day, ready to enjoy the food, the view and the romance of the Caribbean.

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Honeymoon

EL DORADO CACITAS – RIVIERA MAYA El Dorado Cacitas isn’t just a spa resort, it’s an experience. Owned by a local couple who is committed to authenticity, the resort delivers an idyllic and traditional Mexican appeal. This dedication to genuine hospitality is a large part of why it was voted one of Conde Nast Traveler´s Top 100 Hotels in the world. El Dorado Casitas is also a recent winner of the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award and is ranked by TripAdvisor in the top 10 best hotels in Riviera Maya.

Marilyn Cairo, Karisma’s AVP of Sales in North America, elaborates on one of the features that makes this resort so unique. “Honeymooners get a Gourmet Inclusive experience. The on-property greenhouse grows fresh, local, sustainable food that’s used in the restaurants.” There’s nothing quite like taking a firsthand tour of organic, flavorful fresh herbs and vegetables, then tasting those very same ingredients in your elegant dinner.

Along with extravagant accommodations, gourmet cuisine and pristine stretches of secluded beaches, the El Dorado Casitas has even more romance to offer. Cairo explains further, “Enjoy a lavish spa treatment, go horseback riding, or take a swim in a natural underground cenote.” Put it all together, and you have a surefire recipe for an epic honeymoon in Mexico.

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Honeymoon

MARGARITAVILLE – RIVIERA CANCUN Margaritaville is a state of mind, inspired by Jimmy Buffet’s lyrics to find a “change in latitude.” It’s a tropical paradise with turquoise waters, colorful sunsets, swaying palm trees and raising a glass to friends. This latest addition to the Karisma family is an all-inclusive beachside indulgence that embodies the laid-back fun of a romantic seaside paradise. It’s also the latest hotspot for destination weddings.

Perfect for the free-spirited and young at heart, Margaritaville is not a formal nuptial affair. Couples can find all of the expected tropical vibes mixed with current wedding trends with a twist. Ceremonies are typically casual here with flip-flops and breezy beach-view “I dos.” At receptions, the standard sit-down wedding dinners are replaced with fun options like taco carts and tequila stations.

But just because there’s a laid-back vibe doesn’t mean the accommodations and amenities aren’t top notch. Guestrooms and suites seamlessly blend a casual island design with luxurious comforts and special indulgences. Worldclass amenities like inclusive restaurants, specialty bars, live entertainment and exciting beach activities await wedding parties and honeymooners alike. Relax in a beach hammock, indulge in a spa treatment or celebrate “5:00 somewhere” with a unique Mexico beach honeymoon.

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TRAVEL DURING COVID-19 The COVID-19 pandemic has been an ever-evolving situation when it comes to travel, and its effects continue to linger. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when planning your honeymoon travels.

1. Bookmark the CDC website (www.cdc.gov/ travel) to stay up to date with travel advisories.

2. Face coverings or masks are required at a number of locations, including airports. Be sure to carry a few with you.

3. While hotels are taking extra precautions, it’s not a bad idea to wipe down high touch areas with disinfectant wipes once you check in.

4. Purchase trip cancellation insurance in case your travels are affected by COVID-19.

5. Check with your insurance company to see if they cover illnesses abroad. If not, consider purchasing travel insurance.

Monticello Grand Ballroom Classic and Charming, The Ideal Location for Simple Elegance

Weddings - Rehearsal Dinners - Bridal Showers - Bridal Salon - Event Planning Services

Every Love Story is Beautiful... Yours is Our Favorite

Holiday Inn - Guestroom Accommodations - Restaurant - Lounge - Fitness Center - Indoor Pool

6921 South Lindbergh Boulevard | St. Louis MO | sales@hisoco.com | 314-892-3600

| STYLED SHOOT I |

Photographed by Elizabeth Lloyd Photography

Our dear friend Elizabeth of Elizabeth Lloyd Photography asked us to curate a shoot for a photography workshop she was hosting at one of our favorite spaces, Wild Carrot, and we couldn't resist. Immediately, I knew I wanted to incorporate a bold color palette as I knew it would lend itself perfectly not only to the space, but to her photography style. At the time, we were designing a few weddings that focused on neutrals and muted tones so I was ready to rock some color. Immediately, I had visions of incorporating rich hues of mustard and chartreuse paired against bright coral and peach. The foundation pieces of our plan - from the custom wedding ensemble for our "bride" to the quirky tablescape - would feature deeper tones providing an anchor to the design allowing the lush florals, stunning cake and modern invitation suite to really pop.

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DETAILS Event Styling & Design: Altar'd Events Venue: Wild Carrot Ceremony Arbor: Eye Candy Rentals Cake: Cake House Designs Floral: Snapdragon Studio Paper Goods: On Three Designs Hair & Makeup: Eye Do STL Bridal Attire: Anais Annette dress (white) and Sweet Carolines Styles (mustard skirt), Bridal Parlour Groom Attire: Personal wardrobe - tie was Lonesome Traveler

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Artistic Inspiration Tablescapes Colored with Creativity

By Amy Fenster Brown | Photography by Video Gate Studios

Saint Louis Bride Magazine staffers were delighted to attend the St. Louis Jewish Light’s "Events Event: 20/20 Vision for Life's Celebrations" featuring colorful and creative tablescapes. Local wedding planners, florists, and photographers wowed the crowd at Westwood Country Club with inspired designs full of romance and whimsy.

Here are a some of favorites—including all the dreamy details to help you plan the look of your upcoming big day!

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Sea & Sky

DETAILS Design: The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis & Botanicals Design Studio Floral & Decor: Botanicals Design Studio Linens, Chairs & Tableware: The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis Macarons: The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis

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Palm Springs Art Deco Style DETAILS Design: Bloomin' Buckets & Abby Durlester Florals: Bloomin' Buckets Decor: Abby Durlester Calligraphy: Caroline Goldenberg Sweet Favors: Krunch Kandy 112

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Honey Garden

DETAILS Design: Kristin Ashley Events & Ashley MacDonald Floral Designs Floral & Decor: Ashely MacDonald Floral Designs Gift Boxes: The Matched Box Linens: Nuage Designs Rentals: Weinhardt Party Rentals Macaroons: Cake House Designs

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Woodland Garden

DETAILS Design: Wildflowers Tableware: Nadine and Mina Vintage Rentals Calligraphy, Menus & Placecards: Lulu and Lottie Designs Linens & Chairs: Westwood Country Club

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YOUR DREAM WEDDING...

WITHIN REACH

1 0 7 0 9 WAT S O N R OA D • S U N S E T H I L L S • M I S S O U R I • 3 1 4 - 6 2 0 - 2 1 4 6 H I R O U T E 6 6 .C O M

Under the Sea DETAILS Design & Decor: Parties & Props Event Production Group Cookie Favors: Sweetly in St. Louis

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Tiptoe Through the Tulips

DETAILS Floral & Design: Belli Fiori Cookie Favors: Baked & Sprinkle Rentals: The Aries Company Linens: BBJ Linen & Nuage Designs 118

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Solid Gold

DETAILS Design & Decor: Gold Creative Studio Gift Boxes: The Matched Box Fruits & Confections: The Little Dipper & Kimberlie Zetcher Heligman Favors: Beauty Counter Chairs: Westwood Country Club

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Garden Party

DETAILS Design & Decor: Decorum Wedding Design by Tara Loughman Gift Boxes: The Matched Box

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Carryo ut Cat e Packa ges Av ring ailable

Rehearsal Dinners • Bridal Showers • Smaller Receptions Unique private room centrally located in Webster Groves!

Seated Dinner and Buffet Packages Start at $18 Per Person Seated Capacity 50 Guests / Cocktail Capacity 70 Guests

Contact our Event Manager at 314-963-3434 or events.cyranos@yahoo.com

Hop Into Spring

DETAILS Floral & Design: Thorn Studio Cookie Favors: Companion Bakery, Ladue Table Linen & Chairs: Westwood Country Club

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Imagine being wed in a place that wows With inspiring views of Busch Stadium, the Gateway Arch and Downtown St. Louis, your wedding at the new Live! by Loews – St. Louis, MO is sure to be unforgettable. Designed with versatility in mind, our grand ballroom featuring floorto-ceiling windows and an expansive outdoor event terrace provide limitless options for your special day.

314.597.9675 loewshotels.com/st-louis-live

156734_LOU_WeddingAd_Final.indd 1

6/15/20 2:10 PM

Rose Garden

DETAILS Floral & Design: Buds Floral & Event Design Tableware: Sasha Nicholas Sweet Favors: Defiant Dough Linens & Chairs: All Seasons Party Linen

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Just in Case Ten Items for your Day-Of Emergency Kit

BY J E N N I F E R C . F R A K E S

©SMAIIA VYSOTSKA/SHUTTERTSTOCK.COM

VERY FEW couples get hitched without at least one tiny glitch. A spill, an unexpected rain shower during a photo session, an errant hem. An emergency kit can help with the unpredictable and what-ifs on the big day. If you look on-line, you may be overwhelmed with ideas of over 100 items to pack (smelling salts? An extra pair of wedding bands? Really)? What do you most need to have on-hand in case of minor mishaps and to keep you and your bridal party looking your best? Some local experts who plan, execute and attend dozens of weddings in the St. Louis area every year have boiled it down to what you truly need to be armed for any surprises.

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SCISSORS AND A SEWING KIT “Scissors come in handy for all kinds of things,” said Ellen Gutierrez, wedding planner with Bride’s Vision Weddings and Events. “Especially for getting in dresses and cutting those loops in the dresses that inevitably become untucked.” The sewing kit is also essential for minor wardrobe malfunctions, says Abbie Rudolph, photographer at Abbie Takes Pictures. “Get a good sewing kit, one with real needles and thread, not one of those little tiny ones,” Abbie advises.

Gutierrez once had to sew a groom into his pants because his zipper broke. “I’m not sure how he got out of the pants, but my sewing kit saved the day,” she laughed. To avoid incidents like this, she strongly suggests the groom and groomsmen always try on their tuxedos the day before the wedding to make sure all the pieces are there and in working order.

SAFETY PINS AND STICK PINS Safety pins for pinning those pesky ribbons if your bridesmaids don’t want to cut them out, and stick pins for boutonnieres that rarely stay in place.

HAIR SPRAY AND BOBBY PINS Though not everyone is doing all up-dos as much right now, spray and bobby pins should be at the ready for the bride and bridesmaids, said Bonnie Boze, an experienced stylist in St. Louis.

PAIN RELIEVERS

Gutierrez carries all options for aches and pains, ibuprofen (Advil), acetaminophen (Tylenol), and aspirin. She also has Benadryl on hand, if anyone gets itchy or has allergies due to an outdoor photo session.

DEODORANT It’s good to have spray deodorant on hand, as it’s commonly asked for by both the bridesmaids and groomsmen throughout the day. Rudolph likes deodorant body wipes, which can be hard to find. But when she does see them, she stocks up on the wipes for her clients.

WHITE CHALK This works well on dress smudges and is better on silk dresses than a laundry stick, many wedding planners say. Photographers also use white chalk to cover up stains on the bridal gown.

“That is what you are paying for—the longevity of your look, done by a professional.

That’s the biggest difference in hiring a professional or not.”

BLACK SHOE POLISH AND WITE OUT (WHITE CORRECTION FLUID) For marks and scuffs on shoes, obviously. For white shoes, Wite-Out often works better than white shoe polish. “It really covers marks, on shoes for flower girls and saddle shoes for the ring bearers,” Gutierrez said.

DRYER SHEETS “These are great to get rid of static cling in the girls’ dresses, especially for Fall weddings,” Rudolph said. “The sheets work better than the spray because you don’t have to wait for it to dry.”

HYDRATION SPRAY may be the least-known item on the list, but an excellent product. Boze styles hair and makeup for about 30 bridal parties a year so she knows great products. “I use hydration spray on the face before applying make-up to prep and smooth the skin,” Boze said. “Then I spritz it on after to help set the make-up.”

Boze recommends products available at finer salons and spas, such as hydration sprays

by Jane Iredale. “It’s also great to stick in your purse for your honeymoon and long flights, which can be dehydrating. A couple spritzes on your face really refreshes you,” Boze said.

for broken glasses, all things she’s needed in the past. To truly be ready for almost anything, having a wedding planner who’s seen it all is the way to go. Most planners usually plan the wedding from beginning to end, but are also available for wedding weekend coordination.

Rudolph also has other tricks up her sleeve, especially for taking photos on warm days. She keeps wipes with baby powder and cornstarch for overheated bridesmaids, and recommends cotton shorts for the bride. “No one will ever know!” says Rudolph.

One of Rudolph’s favorite tricks for cooling down a bridal party is frozen washcloths. “I moisten about 20 washcloths, wring them out, and freeze them individually in plastic bags for a few days,” Rudolph said. The cold cloths are especially effective for putting on hot necks during summer weddings in St. Louis.

Boze thinks sticking to the basics for hair and make-up maintenance is all you really need, if you have your hair and make-up styled by a professional. “If your stylist has done their job well, your hair and make-up should last you all day and night,” Boze says. “That is what you are paying for-the longevity of your look, done by a professional. That’s the biggest difference in hiring a professional or not.” ♥

FASHION TAPE, DUCT TAPE FASHION TAPE is nice to have on hand, though it can be sweated off, Gutierrez. Rudolph once used Duct Tape to reinforce a bridesmaid’s ripped dress from the inside, and sewed through the duct tape.

So those are the top ten, but Gutierrez carries many more items in her bag of tricks on the wedding day, from feminine products to a wine opener to bandages to a tiny screwdriver

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Wedding Invitations:

Your Questions Answered

BY A M Y Z I M M E R M A N | P H OTO G R A P H S BY L P H OTO G R A P H I E S TAT I O N E R Y BY C H E R E E B E R R Y PA P E R

BEFORE THEY ever take a seat in the pew, see your bridal gown, or take a bite of your wedding cake, your guests receive the printed pieces inviting them to participate in your special day. Make your first impression a good one by following some simple guidelines and creative suggestions from local stationers. We talked with Cheree Berry, owner of Cheree Berry Paper; Alicia Lantzy, owner of On Three Designs; and Julie Redmond, owner of Vellum Posh Paperie to get the answers to the most frequently asked questions concerning invitations

WHEN SHOULD WE MAIL SAVE THE DATE CARDS?

Our experts agree that six months prior to the wedding is the ideal time to mail save the date cards.

There are exceptions, though. If you are having a destination wedding, if a significant number of guests are coming from out-of-town, or if your wedding is on a holiday weekend, consider sending Save the Date cards closer to eight or even ten months in advance of the wedding.

WHEN SHOULD WE MAIL THE WEDDING INVITATIONS?

Wedding invitations typically are mailed eight weeks prior to the wedding. The same rules apply here as for the save the date. Factors such as destination wedding, holiday weekend, or a large number of outof-town guests mean you should mail the invitations earlier, 10 to 12 weeks in advance. Additionally, if you chose not to send save the date cards, you may decide to mail invitations ten weeks prior to the wedding.

WHAT INFORMATION SHOULD BE INCLUDED ON THE INVITATION?

“For the most part, only logistical information belongs on the invitation: date, time, location, address of venue, names of bride and groom, names of hosts. Typically, if the bride’s parents are paying, their names go on top.

Sometimes couples choose to include the groom’s parent’s names as well out of courtesy,” says Berry.

The wording used on the invitation indicates to your guests what type of ceremony you are having.

“If you use the wording ‘honor of your presence,’ guests know the ceremony is taking place in a church or other house of worship. If you use the wording ‘pleasure of your company,’ they know it is at a non-

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religious venue,” explains Redmond.

Divorced parents, remarried parents, multiple hosts may complicate the wording. Reach out to your stationer for guidance on wording, particularly if you have a non-traditional family situation.

HOW LONG SHOULD WE GIVE GUESTS TO RSVP?

“The sweet spot for a reply is four weeks before the wedding. So if you are getting married on June 1, have your guests RSVP by May 1. You know some people will be late with their response, so four weeks allows you a week or two buffer before you have to get final numbers to the venue,” says Berry.

Redmond agrees with the four-week time frame, but also recommends couples take a look at the calendar before they select the return date.

“I don’t like the date to be on a Sunday because mail isn’t delivered that day. Picking a date that will stick in their head, like the first of the month, instead of a random date helps guests remember to send their reply,” says Redmond.

WHO GETS A PLUS ONE?

This question is a bit tricky, but our experts have guidelines for you. Weddings are expensive and guest lists need to be kept under control. Typically, if a couple lives together, is dating seriously or engaged, both should be invited to the wedding.

“This is completely up to the couple and may depend on how large they want the final guest count to be. True plus-ones, or guests, means that the person you are extending the invitation to could bring whoever they want, even someone you may not know,” says Lantzy.

In order to avoid that situation, our experts recommend addressing the plus-one by name on the envelope, rather than the invitee and guest. For example, the invitation should be addressed to Jane Smith and John Jones, rather than Jane Smith and Guest.

HOW DO WE SHARE RECEPTION DETAILS?

This depends on whether the ceremony and reception are under the same roof. If the ceremony and reception are at the same location, reception details may go on the invitation. If the reception is at a separate location from the ceremony, reception details go on a separate card.

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Wedding Invitations: Your Questions Answered DO WE NEED AN INNER ENVELOPE?

into consideration when you plan to mail them.

“If the thank you cards are personalized with your monogram as a married couple, wait to mail them until after the wedding because technically you aren’t supposed to use that monogram until after you are married,” says Redmond.

Not necessarily. Inner and outer envelope combinations are most often used for formal, traditional weddings.

“Many of our couples decide to forgo the inner envelope in favor of using that money to dress up their stationery by adding details such as a silk ribbon tie or to upgrade the paper quality,” says Lantzy.

Many brides aren’t using the inner envelopes to be more environmentally friendly and also to save money. Not only do you have to pay for the envelope, you also have to pay to have them addressed. On the other hand, the inner envelope allows you to further communicate who in the household is invited. If the inner envelope is addressed to John and Jane Doe, it is apparent that kids are not invited.

DO ADDRESSES NEED TO BE HAND WRITTEN?

If you are having a formal, black-tie wedding, you may want to consider having your invitations addressed in calligraphy by hand. However, advancements in digital calligraphy have made printing the addresses a viable and much less expensive option for couples. Many couples choose printed calligraphy not only for the cost savings, but also because they can match the print to the invitation.

SHOULD WE RECOMMEND ATTIRE?

Attire only needs to be mentioned on the invitation if it is black tie or black tie optional. A wedding website is a better place to include information about attire. If you need to remind your guests to wear appropriate footwear for a beach wedding, that can be addressed on a website.

HOW DO WE LET GUESTS KNOW WE ARE HAVING AN UNPLUGGED CEREMONY?

ARE THERE TRENDS WE SHOULD CONSIDER?

in any way as part of the invitation. Those details should be reserved for the wedding website or possibly a shower invitation.

HOW DO WE COMMUNICATE THAT KIDS ARE NOT INVITED?

Make sure your invitations are addressed properly.

“Avoid general terms like ‘and family’ or ‘The Smiths’ and opt for full names, such as Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Smith,” says Lantzy.

If you are really concerned, there are ways to clarify who is invited through the response card by including a line that states “we have reserved ___ seats in your honor,” or even stating “respectfully, adults only.”

The wedding website is an ideal place to include this detail as well.

WHAT OTHER PRINTED MATERIALS SHOULD WE CONSIDER?

Since this information doesn’t need to be communicated in advance, it should not be included as part of the invitation. It may be mentioned in the ceremony program or couples may choose to post a sign as guests enter the ceremony venue. You also may ask your officiant or priest remind guests at the beginning of the ceremony.

While your initial focus will be on ordering save the date cards and invitations, don’t overlook your day-of paper needs. Items to consider include ceremony programs, cocktail napkins, place cards or a seating chart, signature drink signs, menu, and a welcome itinerary for out-of-town guests.

And you definitely need to order thank you notes.

If you are working with a custom stationery designer, discuss ways to create items for your wedding day that compliment your invitation.

WHAT IS THE PROPER WAY TO INCLUDE WEDDING WEBSITE OR REGISTRY INFORMATION?

SPEAKING OF THANK YOU CARDS, HOW SOON SHOULD WE MAIL THEM?

Wedding website most commonly is included on the save the date card. One of the purposes of the save the date card is to allow guests to make travel arrangements and the website can provide necessary details.

“Some of our clients include a details card with the invitation that includes the website. It depends on how actively you are updating your website. If you have more information available closer to the wedding, you may want to remind guests to check the website,” says Redmond.

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You can start writing thank you cards as soon as you receive the gift. According to traditional etiquette standards, you have three months from the wedding date to send thank you notes, but why postpone?

“Create a habit of writing a thank you note the day the gift is received in the mail or at a shower so you don’t get overwhelmed. Or, if you are working on a large amount at one time, set a small, daily goal to write a handful to make the task seems a little less daunting,” suggests Lantzy.

When designing the thank you cards, take

“Textures are important. Not just printing invitations on paper, but including an organic element – linen paper, dried flower, or some other tactile element – has picked up more than ever,” says Berry.

“Pets, please! We are loving seeing how couples are sneaking their pets into their stationery. We’ve included pets in our black-tie stationery as well as our more low-key pieces and they look amazing across the board. We absolutely love this trend and hope it stays for a long time,” says Lantzy.

“It’s almost trendy to be traditional right now. I see a lot of classic invitations with a little personal flair,” says Redmond.

ARE THERE TRENDS TO AVOID?

“Anything that is too fussy or ostentatious should be avoided, especially right now. Anything too over-the-top can feel tone deaf in light of the current situation. You can be beautiful without being inconsiderate,” says Berry.

“The only trends I suggest to avoid are the trends that just don’t feel like you. If you want to include something on your wedding invitation because it seems like the ‘it’ thing to do but it doesn’t feel like it represents you or the event, don’t do it,” says Lantzy.

“Couples love navy or black envelopes with calligraphy in white and I’ve found the post office has issues with delivering those. It is a really cool look but I would do the opposite, have the navy invitation with white print but keep the white envelope with navy print,” says Redmond.

WHAT CREATIVE WAYS DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR COUPLES TO PERSONALIZE WEDDING INVITATIONS?

“Be as personalized as possible within your budget but be sure both people are represented.

If one person is a doctor, you don’t want to use a prescription pad as the save the date, but if both people are doctors, that becomes cheeky and fun.

Consider something that speaks to how you met or how you got engaged,” says Berry.

“There are so many ways to make your wedding invitations truly one-of-a-kind. A stationery designer may be able to create something just for you: a custom painted venue, a hand-drawn monogram, or custom floral artwork. We love sneaking little, personalized details into artwork at On Three Designs,” says Lantzy.

“I work with designers who can create a custom crest that can be carried through all of your printed pieces: invitations, ceremony program, thank you cards. We can even make a logo for the dance floor,” says Redmond. ♥

www.travelhaus.com

Wedding Style Quiz Here’s a quiz with results you can actually use. Answer these questions to define your wedding style. Then share the info with your vendors for a wedding that is uniquely you!

1. Describe your wedding in threewords.

A. Stylish. Classic. Timeless.

B. Antique. Soft. Dreamy.

C. Unique. Intimate. Romantic.

D. Simple. Handmade. Artisanal.

E. Relaxed. Carefree. Fun. 2. Pick your perfect date?

A. Romantic dinner and a walk in the park B. Visiting a museum or art gallery C. Lunch and shopping on Cherokee Street D. Hiking in Forest Park and a picnic on Art Hill E. Anything in the sunshine 3. Describe your dream wedding dress.

A. Strapless ball gown with a sweetheart neckline B. Lace with covered buttons down the back C. Flowy floor-length with tulle and flower appliques D. Off-the-shoulder with lace on the top and long flowing bottom E. Chiffon sheath with spaghetti straps and a low back 4. What are your favorite bridal accessories?

A. Pearls and a classic veil with lace trim B. My mother’s veil and grandmother’s antique earrings C. A flower crown and charm bracelet D. A handmade hair comb and customized shoes E. Simple jewelry and no shoes 5. What’s your ideal flower combo for a bouquet?

A. All white hydrangeas and tea roses B. No flowers – a brooch and ribbon bouquet instead C. Peonies and eucalyptus D. Sunflowers and gerbera daisies E. Cattleya orchids and poppies

Answer Key: Mostly A’s – Traditional, Tried & True You’re old school classic through and through. You appreciate pearls, lace and timeless traditions that will still look stylish in wedding photos on your 50th anniversary.

Mostly B’s – Vintage Chic You appreciate the sentiment of family heirlooms and antiques full of character and stories. Your style is often described as shabby chic, and you blend those two extremes together seamlessly.

Mostly C’s – Eclectic Romantic You’re a hopeless romantic, dreamy but with your feet on the ground. You love the elegance of soft, feminine touches. Details like glowing lanterns, draping fabrics and aromatic florals add an ethereal touch to your wedding designs.

Mostly D’s – Rustic Elegance You love a good burlap ribbon with loose flowers, and homemade details add a personal touch. Outdoor venues with a slightly more casual feel are elevated to excellence with your pops of color and one-of-a-kind handcrafted accents.

Mostly E’s – Easy-going but Up for Adventure As a laid-back bride, you aren’t too concerned about the fussy details of planning a wedding. Marrying your soulmate is the focus of your big day. You like to keep things simple and comfortable with a heaping side of fun.

7. Your ideal honeymoon destination is…

A. Florida Beaches B. Paris C. Wine Country D. Colorado E. Costa Rica

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©ALEX SG2/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

6. What is your signature drink?

A. Champagne B. Red wine C. Martini D. Gin & Tonic E. Rum & Coke

‘ Event Centers, Catering, & Special Event Design

Menus range from traditional to custom designed.

We’ll cater to any location or one of our elegant facilities.

Outstanding Cuisine, Creative Presentation, and Exceptional Service!

Call to schedule a FREE menu tasting!

Some restrictions apply.

SOUTH COUNTY 314.638.6660 | MARYLAND HEIGHTS 314.453.9000

www.OrlandoGardens.com

| STYLED SHOOT II |

Photographed by Photo Elegance

Highlighting the persona of the bold bride and the romantic bride was the goal for this shoot. We chose dramatic lighting for our "bold and fearless" bride, while our "romantic" bride was captured in soft lighting and settings to match her personality. The alluring enchantment of the historic Barnett on Washington captivated that feeling right away with their romantic archways, dramatic red staircases, and masculine bar area. The rich red and deep violet florals helped pull all the pieces of this shoot together each matching the brides' personalities. Which bride you choose to be is up to you.

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DETAILS Creative Director & Stylist: Shannon Hagerty, Your Beauty Ball Location: Barnett on Washington Flowers: Always in Bloom Gowns: Juno Bridal Hair: Kelly Brewer Makeup: Shannon Hagerty, Your Beauty Ball Models: Hayleigh Goodman, Barbizon Modeling Agency; Ericka Goss, West Model Management

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Keep Calm and Marry On How to truly enjoy your wedding and focus on the day, not the details

WE’VE BEEN LIVING in anxious times of late.

Lots of cancelled plans and so much up in the air.

Planning a wedding any time brings stress, as well as excitement and anticipation. But planning a wedding in 2020 is a whole nother story.

If you’ve ever asked a recently married friend for any advice, or what they wish they could do over, chances are they will all say the same thing. When the big day finally arrives—just enjoy it. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Soak it in. The day goes by

so quickly! Have fun and appreciate it, even if little things go wrong.

But that can be easier said than done. How exactly do you stay calm, cool and collected when you desperately want everything you’ve worked for to come together as you’ve envisioned? You can’t control everything that happens on your wedding day, but you can control how you react to it and your own state of well-being. And some of the ways to do that may surprise you.

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©GINGERSTUDIO072/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

BY J E N N I F E R C . F R A K E S

Keep Calm and Marry On PRE-NUPTIALS Before the day, don’t try to do away with anxiousness or stress. “In the days leading up to the wedding, remember to embrace the anxious feelings,” said Nikki Rauner, MSW, LCSW, a psychologist with Emotional Health Therapy.

“Anxiety is a neutral emotion. When we can see it as a neutral emotion, we realize it is not bad or good, it’s just an emotion. Emotions around an exciting, transitional, stressful, fun event, are completely typical.” Rauner said if you welcome the anxiety, you are allowing that emotion to come in, making room for other emotions like excitement, happiness and joy. Often times, we label unpleasant emotions such as sadness and anxiousness as bad. When we do this, we are judging our emotions, and more unpleasant emotions surface. Try to acknowledge the emotion, give yourself some time to feel that unpleasant emotion, and wait and see what happens.

This is also the idea behind mindfulness, a popular buzzword lately. Mindfulness is basically a state of being open and actively noticing the present, without judging emotions and thoughts. This can serve everyone throughout their day, but especially you on your wedding day.

After you have acknowledged the emotions, write down your thoughts, Rauner advised.

“Your thoughts actually drive your emotions.

If you can figure out your thoughts, you can create an action to-do list around the anxious thoughts. You will find that when you identify your thoughts, you are able to shift them. When you shift your thoughts, you naturally shift your emotions.” You might worry, for example, that your uncle will drink too much at the reception.

That’s the initial thought. Answer that thought with yes, he might drink too much and that will not be a reflection on me. I’m not my uncle.

Or even, I’ll directly ask my uncle to limit his alcohol intake. However you are able to shift the thought, you can change your anxious feelings from there.

You may also want to consider trying yoga in the months before the wedding. In addition to helping you look great in your dress, practicing yoga can help decrease stress and anxiety, promote positive thinking, raise self-awareness, improve productivity and creativity and lead to greater self-confidence, said Kate Sanders, a yoga instructor with Charge Yoga. Taking a regular class throughout the wedding planning process is an ideal way to center, calm and reenergize yourself. Ever wonder how Jennifer Aniston looks so great at 51? She’s a yoga devotee. “Yoga also improves strength and flexibility, muscle tone, balance, and posture,” Sanders said. “And it’s great for your cardiovascular and circulatory health.”

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“It was a great way to get to know the other guests a little bit more, and it was both calming and energizing. It really set the tone for the day.”

A yoga class the day before the wedding for you and your bridesmaids, and maybe your mother and future mother-in-law, could be a fun bonding experience that benefits everyone, even first-timers. Some instructors will come to a private home, your hotel or your favorite park and can cater to all levels of experience. Your bridal party will likely find a private yoga class relaxing and low-key…you may even inspire those new to yoga to continue on with their sun salutations and downward dogs.

“I went to a destination wedding and all the guests were invited to a yoga class on the beach the morning of the ceremony,” recalled Abby Gresham. “It was a great way to get to know the other guests a little bit more, and it was both calming and energizing. It really set the tone for the day.”

THE DAY HAS ARRIVED Just as psychologist Nikki Rauner advises you to recognize being anxious before the wedding, it’s the same for the day of (and beyond). “In order to stay calm the day of the wedding, don’t think about staying calm. Lean into your thoughts and emotions. If you worry about staying calm on the day, you will likely hyper-focus on staying calm, which creates unsettling anxious feelings,” Rauner said. She said instead to say to yourself: “I’m going to enjoy all the moments I can on the day of my wedding, and I will probably be anxious and stressed at other points.”

That way, you are setting a realistic expectation of yourself. “When you allow yourself stressful moments, you will more likely be able to move out of those quicker, if you already allowed yourself to have those moments.

When we put an expectation on ourselves about how we are allowed to feel, we often find that we escalate those feelings of anxiety because what began as a moment of stress, is now

compounded with new stressful thoughts about how we need to calm down,” said Rauner.

Rauner likens it to the idea that if we see someone walking on the street and do not want to say hi, it is best to nod and say hello, rather than follow them around and tell them we will not talk to them. The same is true for stress and anxiety, nod and say hello, so you can move on. Do not follow the thought around and say I won’t be anxious, or you’re staying with the anxiety.

Another, more pragmatic thing to help prepare for the big day is to count on a couple of besties.

“Have your one or two people that you know calm you or always seem to say the right thing when you are stressed,” suggested Rauner. “Have a plan prior to the day so they know the support you’ll need. You might have a ‘code word’ that means this person will know you need to take a walk or have a quick private moment. Then they can simply implement your escape plan.”

Sneaking away for a brief private moment at the reception is doable, but breaking into the warrior or half moon pose in your gown may raise some eyebrows. Practicing yoga in the months leading up to the wedding will already help ground you, but fitting in a few yoga moves the morning of your wedding is worth the brief time it takes. Sanders suggests these five poses that anyone can do: child’s pose, eagle pose, corpse pose, legs-up-the-wall pose and the puppy pose. Of course, another great thing about yoga is that you can find video demonstrations of these poses on your phone and do them anywhere.

Your wedding day will most likely go by quickly, whether everything goes according to plan or there are some hiccups along the way.

That’s all the more reason to feel OK with however you are feeling, notice the ups and the downs, and savor every bit of it. ♥

OUR PASSION. OUR PERFECTION. YOUR SPECIAL DAY. Celebrate your special event with us and enjoy award-winning hand-crafted microbrews from our on-site brewery and food prepared in our scratch kitchen.

Our versatile private event space is perfect for up to 60 seated guests for any occasion.

The relaxed, warm, inviting space is perfect for showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties and farewell brunches.

PLEASE CONTACT OUR EVENTS TEAM:

314.432.3535 WWW.GCFB.NET

GRANITE CITY FOOD & BREWERY 11411 OLIVE STREET ROAD CREVE COEUR MISSOURI, 63141

| STYLED SHOOT III |

Photographed by Rochelle Maples Photography

A single-color palette can look vastly different depending on your use of color ratios, allocations and different lighting techniques.

We showcased this by styling two tables using the same design elements but shown two different ways. We also chose a color blend to show a "dark and moody" palette that sets a very romantic and dreamy mood. Velvet was used throughout the design because texture is just as important to your overall scheme as color and motif! Texture can be found in linens such as ruffles, raised patterns or sequins. A suspended floral chandelier and hand-applied balloon canopy show two different statement pieces, while a live painter, caricaturist and interactive guestbook bring in some personal touches with flair!

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DETAILS Planning & Design: Tiffany Halkitis, Events Luxe Venue: Four Seasons Saint Louis Live Painter: Florelle Studio Stationery Suite: Courtney Winet Design Decor: Decorum Events Floral: Belli Fiori Linens: Nuage Designs Inc, Ceci New York Collection Caricature Guestbook: Bax Illustration Dresses: Juno Bridal Beauty: LALO Salon Tux: The Black Tux Models: Emily Helling (bride); Mike Lawler (groom); Kayophe Hamblin (bridesmaid) Videographer: Emily Chowning

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| STYLED SHOOT IV |

Photographed by Steph Masat

Our inspiration was taken during the winter when there is a tonal shift in color and everything in nature turns to different hues of amber, brown, gold, cream and white. Using the studio's fresh white space as our backdrop, we created a beautiful intimate wedding space using rich luxe linens, gold accents, dried florals and natural textures. Our dried florals were foraged in local St. Louis fields! Which just adds the coolest element.

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DETAILS Design, Planning & Concept: Hillary J Events Venue: Fresh And Co. Studio Bouquet & Rentals: Rouge Events & Design Stationery: Seven Cranes Calligraphy Hair & Makeup Styling: Maddie Heese of Elizabeth Wolf Bridal Gown: Legends Romana Keveza, Town & Country Bridal Boutique Watercolor Artist: Florelle Studio Cake: Made by Lia Rentals (Chairs): Millennium Productions Charcuterie Boards: Lorraine STL Linens: BBJ Linen Custom Chair Lettering: Sincerely Laura V

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NO PLACE LIKE HOME A backyard wedding can be bliss and worth what-ifs

By Jennifer C. Frakes | Photos by Kelly Park Photography

If there’s anything the Coronavirus pandemic has taught us, it may be the unpredictability of our world and the comforts of home. Our homes have served as our place of safety and refuge during this unprecedented time. And before Corona, home was where we created memories with those we love the most. Hosting your wedding in your backyard will add one of the biggest days of your life to your memories from home, sweet home.

A backyard wedding is personal, sentimental, intimate, and completely unique to you and your wedding story. No wonder so many families want to host the day that begins a couples’ new life together. Though “just having it at home” may not be nearly as easy as it sounds, with the proper planning and preparation, you can have an unforgettable day for you and your guests, right in your own backyard.

PLANS A, B, AND MAYBE C Beck Hebling and her husband Charlie love the outdoors and spend lots of time hiking, running and camping. They knew they wanted to spend their honeymoon canoeing in Minnesota. And when planning their wedding, their first priority was that it take place outdoors. It was so important to them that it was worth the risk of less-than-ideal weather.

But that doesn’t mean that they didn’t do their research and have a back-up plan. “I originally thought about getting married in May, but after looking up the historical data in the Farmer’s Almanac, I saw there was a pretty high chance of rain in St. Louis in May,” Hebling said.

There was less of a risk of a rainy wedding day in October and there would be the advantage of being surrounded by fall’s changing leaves. But to be safe, they had an extra sided tent reserved until shortly before the big day.

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Mackenzie and Matthew's September 21, 2019 wedding took place in the backyard of a private residence. "I loved the intimate and meaningful feel of our 'backyard wedding.' The memories my family and I shared there are unforgettable and being able to have our wedding there made it special."

The Heblings were married in early October with the marriage ceremony in the front yard of Hebling’s parents’ home and the reception in the backyard. Her parents were proud to host the day and their home provided the perfect surroundings for a couple that loves the outdoors.

“A backyard wedding is not for the faint-hearted— you have to be willing to take a bit of a gamble,” a seasoned wedding planner said. “But it’s a unique opportunity to create an exceptional, personal event.

You are sharing your special day and your family home with your guests.”

Regarding the weather, here’s some other advice that also applies to our world’s recent challenges—wedding planners advise to plan for the worst and hope for the best. “Have a Plan B in place that you are prepared to implement.

That way, if you are faced with extreme weather conditions, your wedding day won’t turn into chaos,” said a wedding planner.

And its’s often a good idea to have other safety measures in place in addition to the back-up tent with sides. Have additional equipment on hand that can make the weather more manageable, such as fans or heaters. Don’t underestimate the wind factor, and be sure everything is adequately anchored down, especially the floral arrangements.

Emilee Wolfe was married in July in her parent’s backyard and was prepared for the possible high heat and humidity of a St. Louis summer. “As guests arrived, they were given bottled water and the programs were printed on fans,” said Wolfe. There was also an air-conditioned tent for the reception.

Tents are not just a good idea in case of rain, but are an effective protector from the sun as well. “It’s usually about ten degrees cooler under a tent, which can make a big difference at a summer wedding,” an event coordinator said.

“Tents act as a structure for ceiling fans and to shield eyes from the sun. Tents also light and define an area. For most homes, lighted trees and landscaping are not enough.”

A tent can make an outdoor event just as elegant as an indoor one. How? “With ceiling liners, such as organza fabric, draped from the inside the top of the tent, subtle lighting, chandeliers, flooring, specialty linens, chair covers and more,” said a Grand Rental Station staffer. “You don’t have to sacrifice luxury when you go outdoors.”

You can rent a tent for an event as small as 25 to 50 people to big enough for 1,000 guests. For any seated event, about ten square feet per person is a good number to remember. And though all the extras available may not be in your budget, adding flooring to the tent can help take the wet weather variable our of the equation, said a manager at Traube Tent Company. “It’s nice if you don’t have to worry about the chairs or your guests’ shoes sinking into the ground. Even if it doesn’t rain on the day of the wedding, the ground can still be moist from recent rainfall.”

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FOCUS ON FLORIST Belli Fiori

FOCUS ON FLORIST

By Amy Zimmerman | Photos by White Klump Photography We checked in with local floral designers to find out how they survived quarantine, where they find inspiration, and what they are most looking forward to in floral trends for the wedding season.

LISA MOLITOR

any kind of design if we’re really good.

Owner and Principal Designer, Belli Fiori What has been your most difficult challenge during quarantine?

Not being able to do the work that I love has been difficult. I thought about it the other day and I am never going to complain about working on a Saturday again. I miss delivering flowers, seeing the looks on my clients’ faces, and participating in the joy of their day. Having to pivot and do things that aren’t our first love is not as rewarding.

How do you describe your design style?

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What is your favorite flower?

I love tulips in the spring and sunflowers in the fall.

Where do you look for inspiration?

I like to see what is happening on the east and west coasts. A lot of times that starts to trickle into our market one to two years later. I also like to see what is going on in home décor and jewelry. That often reveals which metallic and color palates are popular. There is a correlation between those industries and floral design.

What current trend in wedding flowers do you appreciate?

I noticed color shifting with lavender making a little bit of a comeback. I’m not seeing a lot of it, but more than normal. The thing that I love is tints in florals, such as

tinted baby’s breath and tinted greenery.

As a florist, I love the look because it is so different and interesting. I used tinted baby’s breath in a design and the guests didn’t even know what it was. The flowers were tinted lavender and people kept asking what kind of lilacs were in the arrangement.

It’s not just purple tint but other interesting colors such as orange and pink.

What advice do you have for brides and grooms?

This pandemic is forcing us to look at things in a different way. Why not look at your wedding differently, too? Don’t be afraid to try something new like a brunch wedding or a smaller, more intimate wedding. We did two weddings last year on Wednesdays. Do a brunch wedding with more guests and a smaller, more intimate dinner with family and friends that night.

It’s fun to try something different.

FOCUS ON FLORIST

Roses & Mint Florals

KIRA MULVANY

OPPOSITE PAGE: ©IVASHstudio/SHUTTERSTOCK

Owner, Roses & Mint Florals What has been your most difficult challenge during quarantine?

Our hearts are breaking for our couples who looked so forward to celebrating and starting their marriage on a certain date and they have to reimagine that. It is difficult to watch but they have been doing it with such grace. The process has been smooth, but it is heartbreaking.

Also, we miss having our entire team together. Our contractors are the heartbeat of our business. When they aren’t delivering flowers regularly we miss them.

How do you describe your design style?

The most important thing that we hold dear is that the flowers are allowed to follow their natural lines and movement.

Our designs can be garden style or more tailored, but we allow the flowers to hold their natural loveliness. We avoid forcing flowers into shapes that aren’t natural.

What is your favorite flower?

Garden rose, hands down. I’m a garden rose girl. My maiden name is Rose so it comes naturally.

Where do you look for inspiration?

We love looking at fashion, architecture, art pieces, all of the art mediums, but we definitely are most inspired by our couples’ love stories, for sure.

What current trend in wedding flowers do you appreciate?

We are loving this flower-focused trend with minimal to no greenery. The design style is fashion-forward where the natural shape and movement of the flowers is highlighted in really interesting, modern shapes and lines.

Bouquets are focused on flowers, with little greenery and artistic shapes.

Modern minimalistic is another way to describe it.

We’ve had such a long season of everyone wanting greenery everywhere it is nice to see flowers come to the forefront

again. Greenery is just as expensive, if not more expensive, than flowers which surprises some people. I think flowers give a lush, garden feel and look more expensive but actually may cost less.

What advice do you have for brides and grooms?

We have been telling our couples to stay focused on the main thing, their marriage and relationship. Everything else will fall into place. The details of planning, rescheduling, and reworking are difficult, but stay focused on yourselves because that is what it’s really all about.

Some of our couples may need to rethink the size of their wedding. If they are downsizing from a large event to a much smaller event, they may not need as many centerpieces, for example, but there are creative ways to use those flowers. We are helping our couples find artful ways to use those flowers as part of their celebration in statement pieces or installations.

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FOCUS ON FLORIST Ayla's Floral Studio

Owner, Ayla’s Floral Studio What has been your most difficult challenge during quarantine?

It’s been difficult for my employees.

Morale is down and there is a lot of uncertainty. Of course, the postponement of all the events and the uncertainty for the brides is awful. I’m offering refunds and postponement without fee but it is difficult for brides who plan all their lives for this day. It is hard to watch them struggle.

How do you describe your design style?

We are very organic and design-focused.

We try to use florals that are not as mainstream as the workhorses of the industry. We don’t use carnations and Gerber daisies as much. Instead we use more unique flowers such as kangaroo pods and peony tulips. The brides set the style for us. We listen carefully to what they want and try not to impose our personal style on their ideas.

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What is your favorite flower?

I haven’t met a flower I didn’t like! There are some crazy looking flowers such as orchids and blushing brides. Peonies are so short-lived and beautiful. I would say that is my favorite.

Where do you look for inspiration?

Most of my inspiration comes from nature and from overseas. In nature, I see inspiration in plants and animals.

Nature is amazing to me. I am inspired by overseas designers because the flowers available to them are so different from ours but the color palate and style I am able to replicate with flowers available here. South America, Australia, Europe all feature floral designs much different from ours.

What current trend in wedding flowers do you appreciate?

I think the micro-wedding is going to be a big thing after this pandemic. We may see a new normal of 50 people or fewer attending a wedding. I see couples

spending more on intimate details that make a smaller celebration amazing.

I think we’ll see a lot more arbors, arches, hanging flowers, and elevated arrangements as micro-weddings become more popular and I think couples will see how much fun it is to plan a smaller, intimate event.

What advice do you have for brides and grooms?

I think brides and grooms should continue to choose vendors and partners that are not focused solely on the bottom line. They should work with people who understand the uncertainty and stay focused on the big day. Find joy in whatever size ceremony or type of celebration they end up having. The most important part is that two people love each other. Sometimes couples get hung up on the venue, or the types of flowers. It’s important to work with good people who are there to support them and focus on the big prize, which is everlasting love.

©TRENT BROGLIN PHOTOGRAPHY

AYLA ABBASSI

FOCUS ON FLORIST Wildflowers

SARAH WARD Owner, Wildflowers What has been your most difficult challenge during quarantine?

It is heartbreaking talking with brides who have to rethink and reschedule what should be the happiest day of their lives. Rescheduling and trying to make their plans work is difficult. It is heartbreaking to watch them pivot their dream into something else. Our studio manager is getting married and I’m her maid of honor so we’ve been walking through this from both sides.

How do you describe your design style?

We look at our design style for several different angles. We love really rich, beautiful, textured garden styles but we also love modern design.

What is your favorite flower?

It depends on the day! For Mother’s Day, my husband had my designer make me an arrangement with coral charm peonies and green viburnum and I’ve enjoyed it all week so today that is my favorite.

Where do you look for inspiration?

I love to go to the Botanical Garden and out for walks in nature among beautiful flowers. Another place I enjoy is the Art Museum. I especially enjoy modern and contemporary art pieces and learning the stories behind them. Recently I’ve been researching Ai Weiwei (Chinese contemporary artist) and his different structures.

What current trend in wedding flowers do you appreciate?

There are a couple of styles that I enjoy.

One is the more bohemian, natural look

with pampas grass. I also like the classical, romantic style with beautiful garden roses.

What advice do you have for brides and grooms?

My studio manager is going through this and I told her to take a deep breath.

It’s ok to pause for a moment. You can’t control what is going on in the world, but you can control how you celebrate your wedding. One of our clients is choosing to have a small ceremony now and postpone the reception for nine months. Look at it as a year-long celebration with multiple small events.

Whatever you choose, in the end you will be married. We are going to do whatever we can to make your wedding beautiful.

Whether it is a ten-person ceremony now or a 200-person celebration in a year, we are going to use flowers to make it beautiful.

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FOCUS ON FLORIST

Sisters Floral Design Studio

EMILY TESTRAKE Owner, Sisters Floral Design Studio

certain look. We strive to grow and change with the times. Just like with fashion, home décor, and cars, designs change and tastes change. We need to keep up with that and stay on top of trends. Our designs are all very customized to each client.

What has been your most difficult challenge during quarantine?

On the business side, the most challenging part has been staying positive for brides that have to move dates. We had dozens of postponed events and we were scrambling the first days after the announcement. Our priority was reassuring clients that we are still going to be their florist and changing the date isn’t going to cost them any more money. Logistically, trying to move everyone was a challenge. We had two people we had to move twice. I pride myself in remembering names and dates of my clients but now I don’t know anyone’s date. It is too much of a jumble in my brain.

Personally, the lack of physical contact is difficult for me. I am an affectionate, outgoing person. One of the reasons we keep this a small business is because we enjoy personal relationships with our clients

Where do you look for inspiration?

We look to the color palates from home décor as they often spill into floral design. We follow a lot of European and Asian designers on Instagram. Most trends start in Europe and Asia, move from there to New York and Los Angeles and the make their way to us. St. Louis is a little more conservative with change and design trends.

How do you describe your design style?

Our company doesn’t have a set design style. We’ve been doing this for 18 years and we don’t want to get stuck in a

What current trend in wedding flowers do you appreciate?

Bringing back color! For years, everything was ivory, blush, and gold.

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What is your favorite flower?

I don’t have a favorite flower. Whatever comes in that week is my favorite – I’m a flower geek. Shelly’s favorite is tulips.

She’s been my manager and lead designer for more than 13 years and she loves tulips.

It is very beautiful and timeless but as a floral designer, we appreciate color.

Now brides are much more likely to use seasonal colors.

What advice do you have for brides and grooms?

Make sure you sit down with a budget for your whole wedding and allow enough for florals. Give your designer some samples that show your design style and tastes. Then allow your designer to present a design that fits within your budget rather than dictating exactly what you want. You will get a lot more bang for your buck if you let the designer run with it a little bit.

Brides don’t typically know the pricing of individual flowers. But a designer does and you will get bigger, prettier arrangements if you allow the designer to be creative. One of our goals is that the perceived value of your florals is more than what you spent.

Also, as we get through this pandemic, keep your focus on the important stuff.

You are just as married if you have 50 guests or 250 guests. Maybe this will help us get back to what is important.

It’s fun to have a big party but keep the focus on the big picture and don’t worry so much about the details.

(Continued on page 168)

New name; same great company!

Tents Tables | Chairs | Linen | China | Centerpieces

We’ve got you covered!

Call us at 636-343-7278 www.grandrental-STL.com 570 Rudder Rd Fenton • MO • 63026 www.GrandEventsSTL.com info@grandeventsstl.com

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Fiesta

Weddings in the time of Covid19

BY JENNIFER C. FRAKES Every wedding has a few hiccups and unforeseen circumstances. But getting married during a pandemic?

No one could have predicted that. Imagine months of planning, working with dozens of vendors and anticipating seeing all your most cherished family and friends—then learning your big day will need to be much smaller. These four couples all forged ahead, getting married on their original wedding date, most with drastically altered plans.

And each of them is so glad they did. Though it wasn’t what they pictured, these more intimate events turned out to be especially meaningful, relaxed and wonderful celebrations of the couple. Their St. Louis-area vendors were understanding and flexible and will be there for their second “bigger” day, scheduled later this year or in 2021.

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LINDSEY CHAD Home Sweet Home May 16, 2020 WHITE-KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY

Plan A for Lindsey and Chad’s big day was a ceremony and reception at Willow, in downtown St. Louis.

Getting married in the attic of their South City home “was probably Plan E or F,” laughed Lindsey, but it turned out beautifully. Lindsey and Chad are both fans of older homes and Chad actually proposed to Lindsey in the candle-lit attic of the home they bought together three years ago. So the spot was sentimental, and large enough for the couple, officiant and his wife, maid of honor and best man (who introduced the couple) and the photographer. “It was very romantic,” Lindsey said. “But we also look forward to celebrating with our family and friends next May.” Lots of champagne was delivered to their doorstep by wellwishers, and the couple returned the favor by dropping off wedding cake for those that couldn’t be there.

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DETAILS VENUE: COUPLES’ HOME FLORIST: PETAL PUSHERS STL BRIDE'S DRESS: JUNO BRIDAL CAKE: WEDDING WONDERLAND OFFICIANT: TYLER KIRK DRESS DESIGNER: ALYSSA KRISTIN

LAUREN CHAD From the Heart Six Feet Apart May 24 , 2020 MADDIE HALL, PHOTOGRAPHER

When Lauren and Chad realized they wouldn’t be able to have their planned wedding of 250 at 612 North in downtown St. Louis, it was Chad who said what mattered most was becoming husband and wife. Hosting 16 family members outdoors at St. Albans turned out to be a lovely and meaningful affair. Lauren’s grandparents, in their 90’s, were able to really share in the intimate ceremony, including witnessing the signing of the ketubah, the legal document in Jewish law that certifies the marriage. “Usually guests don’t see that part of the ceremony, but it was very special for those that were there to witness it,” Lauren said.

Lauren also savored her relaxing morning that day, going for a run and having mimosas with her sister.

Their initial wedding plans are still in place with their wonderful vendors for September of 2021.

DETAILS VENUE: THE INNS AT ST. ALBAN’S FLORIST: RUDY’S FLOWER TRUCK (BOUQUET), TRADER JOE’S FOR THE REST, DONE BY BRIDE’S MOM AND AUNT BRIDE'S DRESS: BLOOMINGDALE’S CAKE: CELEBRATING LIFE CAKE BOUTIQUE MUSIC: RUSS PRICHARD, RUSSELLVILLE MUSIC BEAUTY: JULIA MANEWITH OFFICIANT: RABBI CARNIE ROSE

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Katie ERic Just the Two of Us April 3, 2020 PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAIME NICOLE KRAUSE

Katie and Eric had planned on a small wedding, but not this small. The officiant, Carolyn Burke, the photographer and the property owners, Rita Dickherber and husband Kim Bradsher, were the only ones present. Dickherber Farms in Dardenne Prarie was their original chosen location, and it turned out to be a perfect place to be married during the pandemic. “We love farms, and it was a second marriage for both of us,” Katie said. “The day was just about us, and it turned out perfectly. The only thing I would have changed was to have been able to have my hair and make-up done professionally!” The Sobodas plan to host a small reception when it’s safe to do so.

DETAILS VENUE: DICKHERBER FARM FLORIST: SCHNUCKS FLORAL BRIDE'S DRESS: DAVID'S BRIDAL OFFICIANT: CAROLYN BURKE

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Hayley sam Locally Sourced May 30 , 2020 PHOTOGRAPHY BY BTP BY ALISON

Reducing your guest list from 250 to nine people requires a major mental shift, but Sam and Hayley didn’t miss a beat. Originally, their wedding was to be at Mad Art Gallery, near where they live.

Instead they married in nearby Benton Park, where Sam had proposed, and had an intimate gathering at Ernesto’s Wine Bar, a favorite neighborhood spot of theirs. The wine bar had been closed, but they rented the space and Ernesto’s provided wine, while the couple brought in local beers from Bluewood Brewing and Earthbound Beer. “It was a beautiful day and we spent most of the time on the patio, really visiting and enjoying our small group,” Sam said. “It was really relaxed.” Sam and Hayley are grateful to their vendors for their flexibility, and they have rescheduled with all of them for a celebration hopefully on August 28.

DETAILS VENUE: BENTON PARK, ERNESTO’S WINE BAR CATERING: SALT + SMOKE FLORIST: RILEY’S FLORIST BRIDE'S DRESS: LULU’S CAKE: BRITT’S BAKEHOUSE OFFICIANT: JIM ROCHE

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| STYLED SHOOT V |

NOTHING FANCY, JUST LOVE:

Photographed by Tammi Camp Photographer

This collaboration was called to showcase an intimate affair in the new South City venue a.casa, and possibilities on the wild side! We designed all the “real feels” that a sweet couple from St. Louis City would experience on the day of their elopement and intimate celebration to follow. From a design standpoint, the goal was to feature approachable and fun décor, DIY components that are thoughtful and still feel high end. The use of residential décor were highlighted, including fresh Boston ferns, knick-knacks and a cozy nook for an intimate dinner. And, since unique entertainment is often the most memorable, wedding guests can experience intimate and alternative wedding activities: guests who bring the entertainment and their musical talents, polaroids, an old record player that guests can enjoy with their “charger” plate, food as entertainment with a South City beverage flight at each place setting.

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DETAILS Planning & Design: A.COMPANIE Design Venue: a.casa Florals: Snapdragon Studio Catering & Cake: Seed Sprout Spoon Stationery: Courtney Winet Designs Hair & Makeup: Emily Miller Team, Midtown Makeup and Hair Vintage Clothing: May's Place Videography: Switzerfilm Models: Janese Watson & Nolan Manning

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sites to behold

A.CASA a.casa is the next exciting project of Garcia Properties in collaboration with the event planning team of a.companie.

Located in the heart of South St. Louis city, near Tower Grove Park, the a.casa space offers and intimate atmosphere with the familiarity and comfort of home mixed with the elevated romance of Parisian cafes. With its urban setting and rustic farm tables, a.casa creates the perfect backdrop for ceremonies, intimate receptions, rehearsal dinners and private events.

Visit acasastl.com for more information, or call 314-353-3986.

Silver Oaks Chateau is excited to announce the opening of a new guest house called the “Chalet.” In keeping with the European influence, the Chalet boasts a grand great room with stone and beams and large deck that are perfect for hosting smaller events. It also sleeps 16-18 people. There is a full kitchen, great room, catering space and Game room with fireplace. It has 4 bedrooms with en suite bathroom and a large bunk room with full bath. It was designed for lodging for their couples and/or their family but will be open to others for rental when available.

Please inquire to sandi@silveroakschateau.com with any questions, or call 314-346-7322.

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A.CASA PHOTO BY PATTENGALE PHOTOGRAPHY; SILVER OAKS CHALET PHOTO BY ELIZABETH LLOYD PHOTOGRAPHY

SILVER OAKS CHALET

sites to behold

LIVE! BY LOEWS ROOFTOP RESTAURANT The Bullock at Live! by Loews – St. Louis is a large, open-air rooftop bar and lounge serving modern American fare and craft cocktails alongside views to the stadium and Midwest Live! entertainment venues.

Adjacent to the second-floor alfresco seasonal terrace and event lawn, The Bullock offers comfortable seating areas, dining tables, an oversized fire pit and 12’ outdoor viewing screen. With sweeping views of Busch Stadium, Clark Avenue and the new Cardinals Walk of Fame, guests will have an elevated section of the action. Available for rehearsal dinners and private events.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LIVE! BY LOEWS AND BALLPARK VILLAGE

Visit loewshotels.com/live-by-loews-stlouis-missouri for more information, or call 314-597-9700.

BALLPARK VILLAGE RESTAURANT Newly opened, Sports & Social, at Ballpark Village overlooks the adjacent outdoor plaza creating a free-flowing environment. Ballpark Village also added over 300 seats to the plaza and other welcoming furniture throughout the exterior patios to provide ample outdoor seating to enjoy food and drinks in a relaxed, fun atmosphere steps away from Busch Stadium. Great for bachelor/ bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners and private events.

Contact Jill Metherd at jill@stlballparkvillage.com or call 314-740-0100.

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RECEPTION SITES

CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Whether your party is upscale and elegant or informal and fun, you’ll find the perfect venue in our comprehensive list below.

18 Rails, 314-664-4680 (Ad on page 7) 3700 Forest Park Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63108 www.18rails.com

Y

700

350

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

a.casa, 314-353-3986 3723 South Kingshighway Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63109 www.acasastl.com

Y

145

120

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

Ameristar Casino Resort Spa, 636-940-4300 (Ad on page 35) One Ameristar Blvd., St. Charles, 63301 www.ameristar.com

Y

1450

640

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Barnett on Washington, 844-GO-BARNETT, (Ad on page 51) 3207 Washington Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103 www.barnettonwashington.com

Y

365

200

Y

Y

Y

call

N

N

Bogey Hills Country Club, 636-946-6250 1120 Country Club Road, St. Charles, MO 63303 www.bogeyhillscc.com

Y

450

360

Y

N

N

N

N

N

The Caramel Room, 314-615-2480, (Ad on page 19) 1600 North Broadway, 63102 www.caramelroom.com

Y

500

325

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

Cardinals Special Events, 314-345-9630, (Ad on page 91) 700 Clark St., 63102 www.cardinals.com/events

Y

2000

1200

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Cedar Creek, 573-237-3672 1401 Olive Road, New Haven, MO 63068 www.visitcedarcreek.com

Y

1000

600

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Chandler Hill Vineyards, 636-798-2675 596 Defiance Road, Defiance, MO 63341 www.chandlerhillvineyards.com

Y

350

275

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Chase Park Plaza, 314-633-3000 (Ad on page 137) 212 Kingshighway, 63108 www.chaseparkplaza.com

Y

3000

1300

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

The Cheshire, 314-932-7857 7036 Clayton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63117 www.cheshirestl.com

Y

225

170

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

City Cottage on Chouteau, 314-961-7588, (Ad on back cover) (Catering St. Louis) 3800 Chouteau, 63110 www.cateringstlouis.com

Y

175

100

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

The Coronado Ballroom, 314-881-4346, (Ad on page 7) 3701 Lindell Blvd., 63108 www.thecoronado.com

Y

600

350

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Crowne Plaza St. Louis Airport, 314-291-6700 11228 Lone Eagle Drive, Bridgeton, 63044 www.cphotelstlouis.com

Y

400

350

N

Y

call

Y

N

Y

Dodson Orchards, 573-561-3093 1778 Madison 507, Fredericktown, MO 63645 www.dodsonorchards.com

Y

300

250

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

The Dogwood in the Grove, 314-300-8500, (Ad on page 61) 4308 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 www.thedogwoodstl.com

Y

250

150

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

DoubleTree by Hilton Collinsville/St. Louis, 618-345-2800 1000 Eastport Plaza Drive, Collinsville, 62234 www.doubletreecollinsville.com

Y

800

450

Y

Y

N

call

N

Y

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Conference Center St. Louis, 636-532-5000 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017 www.doubletreechesterfield.com

Y

800

450

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

DoubleTree Westport Hotel, 314-212-2110 1973 Craigshire, 63146 www.doubletreewestport.com

Y

1000

450

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

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(FROM LEFT) ©L PHOTOGRAPHIE; ©ABBIE TAKES PICTURES; ©WHITE KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY

94 of our favorite reception venues

CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Dublin Farms, 314-614-4600 (Ad on page 27) 8498 Byrnesille Road, House Springs, MO 63051 www.dublinfarmslimited.com

Y

500+

500

Y

Y

Y

N

N

N

Forest Park Visitor’s Center, 314-961-7588 x221, (Ad on back cover) (Catering St. Louis) 5595 Grand Drive in Forest Park, 63112 www.cateringstlouis.com

Y

275

210

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Foundry Art Centre, 636-255-0270 520 North Main Center, Saint Charles, MO 63301 www.foundryartcentre.org

Y

400

350

N

N

Y

N

N

N

Four Points by Sheraton, 618-622-9500 319 Fountains Parkway, Fairview Heights, IL, 62208 www.fourpointstlouis.com

Y

1,000

500

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, 314-881-2031 999 North Second St., 63102 www.fourseasons.com/stlouis/weddings

Y

250

225

Y

Y

ask

ask

N

Y

The Franklin Room, 314-664-7706, (Ad on page 29) 816 Allen Ave., 63104 www.thefranklinroom.net

Y

300

300

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Gatsby Ballroom, 314-238-0167 (Ad on page 133) 1014 Locust, 3rd floor, 63101 www.grandballroomstl.com

Y

250

150

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Grafton Winery the Vineyards, 618-786-3001 21028 Eckert Orchard Road, Grafton, IL 62037 www.thegraftonwinery.com

Y

500

350

Y

N

N

call

Y

N

Grand Ballroom STL, 314-238-0167, (Ad on page 133) 1014 Locust, 16th floor, 63101 www.grandballroomstl.com

Y

400

300

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Grand Hall on Chouteau, 314-427-6771 (Russo's Catering) 2319 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, MO 63103 www.russosgourmet.com

N

550

450

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Hilton St. Louis Airport Hotel, 314-426-5500 10330 Natural Bridge Road, 63134 www.stlouisairport.hilton.com

Y

1000

400

N

Y

ask

Y

N

Y

Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, 314-421-1776 1 South Broadway, 63102 www.hiltonstlouis.com

Y

900

650

N

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Hilton St. Louis Frontenac, 314-993-1100, (Ad on page 59) 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131 www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com

Y

1000

500

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Holiday Inn South County Center, 314-892-3600, (Ad on page 107) 6921 South Lindbergh Blvd., 63125 www.holidayinn.com

Y

500

325

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

Holiday Inn SW - Route 66, 314-821-6600, (Ad on page 115) 10709 Watson Road, 63127 www.holidayinn.com

Y

600

450

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Hotel Saint Louis - A Marriott Autograph Collection, 314-241-4300 (Ad on page 37) 705 Olive Street, 63101 www.hotelsaintlouis.com

Y

170

150

N

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch, 314-342-4655, (Ad on page 75) 4th & Chestnut, 63102 www.stlouisarch.hyatt.com

Y

3500

2000

N

Y

N

call

N

Y

The Inns at St. Albans - The Old Barn Inn, 636-458-0131 3519 Saint Albans Road, St. Albans, MO 63073 www.innsatstalbans.com

Y

ask

220

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Innsbrook Resort, 636-928-3366 x9410, (Ad on page 71) 596 Aspen Way Drive, Innsbrook, MO 63390 www.innsbrook-resort.com

Y

400

350

Y

Y

N

ask

N

Y

Kuhs Farm, 314-226-0709 13061 Spanish Pond Road, Spanish Lake 63138 www.kuhsfarm.com

Y

10,000

900

Y

N

Y

N

N

N

The Last Hotel, 866-752-7700 1501 Washington Avenue, 63103 www.thelasthotel.com

Y

230

180

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Laumeier Sculpture Park, 314-615-5278 12580 Rott Road, 63127 www.laumeier.org

Y

call

250

Y

Y

call

Y

N

N

Lemp Mansion Restaurant, 314-664-8024, (Ad on page 184) 3322 Demenil Place, St. Louis, 63118 www.lempmansion.com

Y

260

260

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Live! by Loews St. Louis, 314-597-9675, (Ad on page 123) 799 Clark Avenue, St. Louis, MO www.loewshotels.com/live-by-loews-st-louis-missouri

Y

550

340

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Lodge at Grant’s Trail, 314-638-3340, (Ad on page 133) 4398 Hoffmeister, 63125 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com

Y

125

80

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Longview Farm House, 314-587-2814 13525 Clayton Road, Town and Country, MO 63141

Y

100

100

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

Lumen Private Event Space, 314-615-2480, (Ad on page 19) 2201 Locust, 63103 www.lumenstl.com

Y

300

200

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Magnolia Hotel – a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, 314-387-1385 421 N. 8th St., 63101 www.magnoliahotels.com

Y

500

300

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

The Mahler Ballroom, 314-361-4411 4915 Washington Ave., 63108 www.mahlerballroom.com

Y

250

200

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Main Street Abbey, 618-612-7206, (Ad on page 101) 340 S. Main St., Columbia, IL 62236 www.mainstreetabbey.com

Y

300

220

Y

N

Y

N

N

N

Marriott St. Louis Grand-Crystal Ballroom, 314-418-5820, (Ad on page 49) 800 Washington Ave., Downtown www.marriottstlouisgrand.com

Y

400

270

N

Y

N

call

N

Y

Marriott St. Louis Grand-Statler Ballroom, 314-418-5820, (Ad on page 49) 800 Washington Ave., Downtown www.marriottstlouisgrand.com

Y

300

180

N

Y

N

call

N

Y

Reception Sites

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CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Messina - Russo's Lakeside Venue, 636-232-0109 5551 Highway N, Cottleville, MO 63304 www.russosgourmet.com

Y

450

350

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Missouri Athletic Club, 314-539-4470 405 Washington Ave., 63102 www.mac-stl.org

Y

700

500

N

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Missouri Botanical Garden, 314-577-0200, (Ad on back cover) (Catering St. Louis 961-7588 x221) 4344 Shaw Blvd., 63110 www.cateringstlouis.com

Y

300

200

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Missouri History Museum, 314-454-3159, (Ad on page 65) 5700 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63112 www.mohistory.org/museum/host-an-event

Y

400

250

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

Moonrise Hotel, 314-721-1111, (Ad on 95) 6177 Delmar Blvd., 63112 www.moonrisehotel.com

Y

200

80

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Moulin Events, 314-241-4949, (Ad on page 173) 2017 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, MO 63103 www.moulinevents.com

Y

750

325

Y

N

N

Y

N

N

Old Hickory Golf Club, 636-477-8960, (Ad on page 17) 1 Dye Club Drive, St. Peters, MO 63304 www.oldhickorygc.com

Y

1000

550

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

Oliva on the Hill, 314-961-7588 x221, (Ad on back cover) 4915 Daggett, 63110 www.cateringstlouis.com

Y

120

100

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Orlando’s Event & Conference Centers, 314-638-6660, (Ad on page 133) 4300 Hoffmeister, 63125 www.orlandogardens.com

Y

1000

900

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Orlando’s Event & Conference Centers, 314-453-9000, (Ad on page 133) 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 www.orlandogardens.com

Y

900

600

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Overlook Farm, 573-242-3838, (Ad on back cover) 16095 Highway W, Clarksville, MO 63336 www.overlookfarmmo.com

Y

300

300

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Palladium Saint Louis, 314-799-8886, (Ad on page 7) 1400 Park Place, 63104 www.palladium-stl.com

Y

700

400

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

The Piper Palm House, 314-771-2679 4256 Magnolia, 63110 www.towergrovepark.org

Y

275

150

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

The Ritz Carlton, St. Louis, 314-863-6300, (Ad on page 3) 100 Carondelet Plaza, 63105 www.ritzcarlton.com

Y

1000

800

N

Y

N

call

call

Y

Saint Louis Art Museum, 314-655-5387, (Ad on page 85) One Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110 www.slam.org/dining/social.html

N

400

300

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

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CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Saint Louis Science Center - James S. McDonnell Planetarium, 314-533-8179 5050 Oakland Ave., 63110 www.slsc.org/book-an-event

Y

1000

600

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Saint Louis Zoo, 314-646-4855, (Ad on page 45) One Government Drive, Forest Park www.stlzoo.org

Y

unltd.

500

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

The Schlafly Tap Room, 314-241-2337 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63103 www.schlafly.com/events/private-parties

N

200

120

N

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Seven Gables Inn, 314-863-8400, (Ad on page 190) 26 N. Meramec Avenue, 63105 www.sevengablesinn.com

Y

150

110

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

The Sheldon Concert Hall & Ballroom, 314-533-9900, (Ad on page 43) 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108 www.sheldoncancerthall.org

Y

700

500

N

Y

Y

call

N

N

Sheraton Westport Lakeside Chalet, 314-878-1500 191 Westport Plaza, 63146 www.sheratonwestport.com

Y

1000

500

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Sheraton Westport Plaza Hotel, 314-878-1500 900 Westport Plaza, 63146 www.sheratonwestport.com

Y

500

250

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Silver Oaks Chateau, 314-238-6567, (Ad on page 23) 1168 State Highway 100, Wildwood, MO 63069 www.silveroakschateau.com

Y

300

300

Y

Y

call

N

N

N

Slate Private Event Space, 314-899-0430, (Ad on page 33) 1015 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63101 www.baileysrestaurants.com

Y

225

200

Y

Y

N

Y

ask

N

SqWires Annex, 314-865-3522, (Ad on page 20) 1415 South 18th St., St. Louis, MO 63104 www.sqwires.com

Y

200

150

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

St. Louis Airport Marriott, 314-253-5199 10700 Pear Tree Drive, St. Louis, MO 63134 www.marriottstlairport.com

Y

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

St. Louis Artists' Guild, 314-961-7588 x221, (Ad on back cover) 12 North Jackson, Clayton, MO 63105 www.cateringstlouis.com

Y

275

190

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

St. Louis Carousel, 314-615-8344 15189 Olive Blvd., Chesterfield, MO 63017 www.stlouiscarousel.com

Y

400

200

Y

N

Y

N

N

N

St. Louis Community Foundation #2 Oak Knoll Park, 314-664-7680, (Ad on page 7) (Butler's Pantry Catering) #2 Oak Knoll Park, Clayton, MO 63105 www.butlerspantry.com

Y

170

225

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

St. Louis Union Station Hotel, 314-621-5262 1820 Market St., 63103 www.stlunionstationhotel.com

Y

500

500

N

Y

call

N

N

Y

Starlight Roof at the Chase, 314-367-1700, (Ad on page 137) 212 North Kingshighway, 63108 www.chaseparkplaza.com

Y

600

340

Y

Y

N

call

N

Y

Stone House of St. Charles, 636-317-1222, (Ad on page 93) 4401 McClay Road, St. Charles, MO 63304 www.stonehouseofstcharles.com

Y

call

500

Y

N

Y

N

N

N

Sunset Bluffs, 314-660-2210 1775 Bieker Road, Washington, MO 63090 www.sunsetbluffs.com

Y

300

300

Y

N

Y

N

N

Y

Sunset Country Club, 314-843-1100 9555 South Geyer Road, 63127 www.sunsetcountryclub.org

Y

500

300

Y

Y

N

ask

N

N

Third Degree Glass Factory, 314-367-4527, (Ad on page 180) 5200 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108 www.thirddegreeglassfactory.com

Y

500

225

Y

N

Y

N

N

N

Three Barn Farm, 314-961-7588 x221, (Ad on back cover) 20955 Highway W, Clarksville, MO 63336 www.cateringstlouis.com

Y

150

124

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

The Venue at Maison du Lac (Ces & Judy’s Catering), 314-991-6700 2603 Wild Plum Valley Road, Catawissa, MO 63069 www.thevenuestl.com

Y

300+

300+

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

The Weingarten, 618-257-9463 1780 E. State Route 15, Belleville, IL 62221 www.theweingarten.com

Y

400

200

Y

N

N

Y

N

N

The Westin St. Louis, 314-621-2000 811 Spruce St., 63102 www.westin.com/stlouiswedding

Y

500

275

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

The Wildwood Hotel, 636-733-9100 2801 Fountain Place, Wildwood, MO 63040 www.thewildwoodhotel.com

Y

200

250

N

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Willow Private Event Space, 314-899-0430, (Ad on page 33) 321 North 10th St., 63101 www.weddingsinwillow.com

Y

350

325

Y

Y

N

Y

ask

N

Whittemore House, 314-961-7588 x221, (Ad on back cover) (Catering St. Louis) 6440 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, MO 63105 www.cateringstlouis.com

Y

200

120

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Xavier Grand Ballroom, 314-427-6771 (Russo's Catering) 3628 Lindell Blvd., 63108 www.russosgourmet.com

Y

400

330

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Reception Sites

1,000 1,100

FALL/WINTER 2020 • WWW.BRIDESTL.COM

165

CEREMONY SITES

16 of our favorite ceremony venues

MAXIMUM CAPACITY

OUTDOOR AREA

BRIDAL SUITE ON SITE

ON SITE OFFICIANT AVAILABLE

ALLOW CHOICE OF OFFICIANT

ADDITIONAL CHARGE FOR SEATING

AUDIO SERVICE CHARGE

Barnett on Washington, 800-844-GO-BARNETT, (Ad on page 51) 3207 Washington Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103 www.barnettonwashington.com

Y

180

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Busch Stadium, 314-345-9630, (Ad on page 91) 700 Clark St., St. Louis, MO 63102 www.cardinals.com/events

Y

1000

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

The Old Peace Chapel at Historic Daniel Boone Home & Heritage Center, 636-949-7535 1868 Interstate F, Defiance, MO 63341 www.danielboonehome.com

N

100

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Historic Sappington House & Barn Restaurant, 314-822-8171 1015 S. Sappington, St. Louis, MO 63126 www.sappingtonhouse.org

Y

350

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Jewel Box in Forest Park, 314-531-0080 Intersection of Wells Drive & McKinley Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110 www.stlouis-mo.gov

Y

250

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Laumier Sculpture Park, 314-615-5278 12580 Rott Road, St. Louis, MO 63127 www.Laumeier.org

Y

500

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Lemp Mansion Restaurant & Inn, Inc., 314-664-8024, (Ad on page 184) 3322 DeMenil Place, St. Louis, MO 63118 www.LempMansion.com

Y

260

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Marry Me Cottage LLC, 636-734-6077 9036 Veterans Memorial Parkway, O'Fallon, MO 63366 www.marrymecottage.com

N

40

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Moonrise Hotel, 314-721-1111, (Ad on page 95) 6177 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63112 www.moonrisehotel.com

Y

125

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Old Courthouse, 314-655-1600 11 North 4th St., St. Louis, MO 63102 www.nps.gov/jeff/planyourvisit/permits

Y

120

N

Y

N

Y

Y

n/a

The Old Post Office, 314-436-0101 815 Olive St., St. Louis, MO 63101 www.events.oldpostofficestl.com

Y

250

N

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Old Post Office Plaza at Magnolia Hotel, 314-436-9000 421 North 8th St., St. Louis, MO 63101 www.magnoliahotels.com

Y

250

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

Y

varies

N

St. Louis County Parks, 314-615-8820 Multiple Locations www.stccparks.org

varies varies

St. Louis Wedding Chapel, 314-472-5017 9620 South Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63125 www.stlouisweddingchapel.com

N

30

N

Y

Y

Y

ask

N

Stone House of St. Charles, 636-317-1222, (Ad on page 93) 4401 McClay Road, St. Charles, MO 63304 www.stonehouseofstcharles.com

Y

500

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

The Venue at Maison du Lac, 314-991-6700 2603 Wild Plum Valley Road, Catawissa, MO 63069 www.bit.ly/thevenueatmdl

Y

300

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

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(FROM LEFT) ©PATTENGALE PHOTOGRAPHY; ©A SWEET FOCUS; ©SALVATORE CINCOTTA

RECEPTION SITE AVAILABLE

Whether your ceremony is upscale and elegant or informal and fun, you’ll find the perfect venue in our list below.

NO PLACE LIKE HOME (Continued from page 145) Though tents can keep most of the elements out, it’s important to remember: tents are not buildings. In extreme weather conditions, like 80 mile per-hour winds, a tent does have its limits.

Dana Bolton was married in the backyard of her husband’s childhood home. There were 100 guests, and it took place in a rural setting, surrounded by farmland. Though it was a beautiful, sunny day, the wind and wet ground were a factor. “We had the ceremony outside, then went to an indoor site for the reception,” said Bolton. “So we just had a simple canopy for the ceremony. If I could do it again, I’d have a sided tent to help with the wind, and some type of floor, at least for walking down the aisle. My wedding shoes were ruined by the soggy ground.”

IS THE HOME READY TO HOST? Christine Krehmeyer’s parents had so much work done to their home prior to her wedding that the contractors were on the guest list. “The house needed some exterior work anyway, so before our wedding was a perfect time to do it,” said Krehmeyer.

It’s rare to have a home and yard that are completely ready to host a wedding without any home improvements or additional landscaping needed. Robin Meyer’s wedding reception was in her parent’s large backyard and it was a family-oriented affair with several children in attendance. Meyer’s father built a swing set for the kids and her mother planted fragrant flowers, such as gardenias, lilies, and roses to add to the landscaping of the property and the beauty of the day.

In addition to cosmetic work, more practical matters need to be evaluated, especially in older homes. Is there enough power or will a generator be needed? Are the restrooms in the house sufficient for the number of guests? What extra lighting is needed for guests to safely move around? Should the grounds be sprayed for bugs? You may need to check with your municipality to see if an inspection is necessary or permits are required. Also make sure your insurance coverage is up-to-date regarding liability.

PLAN ON A PLANNER Having a reception at home instead of a traditional facility, such as a banquet hall or hotel, makes your responsible for many more of the details. “Remember, you are constructing a whole set,” an event coordinator said. “That can be daunting, but that’s also what is exciting and more personal about a wedding at home.

You will be using more vendors, from caterers to rental companies to a possible valet service for parking—you are supplying everything down to the last teaspoon.”

With so much to keep track of, consider hiring a wedding coordinator to be the point person for all the vendors, in addition to helping with all the other details. “While wonderful, a backyard wedding is more tedious than a traditional location,” said Meyers. “There are no on-site staff people to manage the ebb and flow of the day. It takes a lot of stress off the family to have someone who is constantly in touch with everyone hired for the event.”

VETERAN VENDORS It makes it much easier for all involved if the vendors are experienced at working outdoor weddings. “That was the first question I asked all the vendors I talked with: ‘Have you worked outdoors before?’” said Becky Hebling. The suppliers need to be able to tell you what they need in order to do their jobs the best they can.

“An outdoor wedding is a feast for all the senses,” said a caterer. And of course, a big part of the feast is the food. “We want the catering to be the quality and atmosphere of a five-star restaurant,” a caterer said. For that reason, some caterers would rather not use the client’s kitchen, preferring to be behind the scenes and out of the traffic flow. That usually means the caterer works under a tent or in the garage.

Carleen Kramer is director of sales Catering St. Louis and loves backyard weddings. “An outdoor wedding is a blank canvas—the possibilities are endless. You have more latitude at a private residence and can really help create the vision. The couple is usually so happy with the results. It’s a real dream day for them.”

Kramer notes that while outdoor weddings can be more expensive because of all the rentals needed, from kitchen equipment to linens, the food does not cost any more than at an indoor location.

While choices for the meal can be on par with indoor fare, your options are more limited for a wedding cake that will be outdoors, especially when heat and humidity come into

play. “Outdoor weddings can’t handle perishable frostings or fillings, such as ones that are butter or cream-based,” said a pastry chef. And you may sacrifice flavor when other ingredients are substituted, such as shortening.

A PLEASER, PLAIN OR FANCY “People love an outdoor party,” a wedding planner said. “And it’s such a romantic way to get married. Guests seem just as romanced by outdoor weddings as the couple is.”

It doesn’t have to be a huge or incredibly expensive wedding to be a great time for the guests. “We wanted a big, barbecue type party that we could invite all our friends to,” said Krehmeyer. “We enlisted friends and family to help curb expenses. A friend did the catering, we borrowed a school’s tables and chairs from a relative who was a principal and everyone helped decorate. We had 250 people and spent under $10,000.”

Meyers said her low-key afternoon reception was a big hit with their guests. “Everyone was really relaxed and had a great time,” said Meyers. She and her husband Peter have a beloved dog, Otto, that was able to be at the reception (in his bow tie) and they provided a dog sitter so guests could bring their dogs, too.

Opportunities abound for putting a personal mark on your wedding when it takes place at home. Wolfe and her husband met in Chicago and wanted to include the city in their day. Later in the evening at the reception, they provided a hot dog stand just like the ones outside Chicago Cubs’ Wrigley Field. The couple also had done quite a bit of traveling together, and gave guests luggage tag holders with their table numbers on them as a unique place card and wedding favor.

The bottom line on backyard weddings?

Think positive, but be prepared. If you can endure the uncertainty of the weather, a backyard wedding is definitely worth the extra planning required. After all, home is where the heart is. ♥

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167

FOCUS ON FLORIST (Continued from page 150)

NICOLE HATCHER Design Floor Manager, Schnucks Floral Design Center What has been your most difficult challenge during quarantine?

Trying to get the right flowers has been a challenge. We’ve still been busy but we’ve had to do a lot of substitutions because the variety of flowers has been limited.

Even the local markets are running out of certain flowers. It’s been challenging but people are understanding of the situation.

We stick to the color scheme and design but we might not be able to get the exact pink rose you want.

How do you describe your design style?

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WWW.BRIDESTL.COM • FALL/WINTER 2020

I went to school for art so I’m drawn to the elements of design. I like organization and patterns but with a garden influence.

away from the round, mound of handtied flowers and moving more toward bouquets that are bohemian, loose with lots of greens.

What is your favorite flower?

I like so many of them but if I have to pick one it’s a blue delphinium.

What advice do you have for brides and grooms?

Before calling your florist, make sure you have your dresses picked out and you know your color scheme. Go online and look for pictures of what you like. I’m a visual person so pictures of colors, patterns, and shapes help me understand what my brides want.

You can look through magazines, on Pinterest, even a Google image search will help you find ideas for your wedding floral design.

Where do you look for inspiration?

My interest in flowers came from my mom and being in the garden with her as a kid so I still look for inspiration in nature and gardening.

What current trend in wedding flowers do you appreciate?

I really like that brides are getting

©WHITE KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY

Schnucks Floral Design Center

FOCUS ON FLORIST

Artistry Florist

RANDY SHAMEL

©WHITE KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY

Owner/Lead Designer, Artistry Florist What has been your most difficult challenge during quarantine?

Our first concern, once we are open again, is determining how we work within the parameters of the area where our clients are having events. We are still doing proposals for clients, but it is challenging to create a proposal for a reception for 300 guests when realistically it may be 10 guests. It feels like we are spinning our wheels while we wait for the regulations and stipulations of each county so we know what we can do for each wedding.

How do you describe your design style?

My style is classic – full, lush, elegant, formal design but I lean into current trends. I appreciate more classic floral

design but I stay current with the trends that the majority of my clients want.

What is your favorite flower?

I love peonies and I love ranunculus. Those are my two favorite flowers.

Where do you look for inspiration?

A lot of my inspiration comes from years in the business. I get a lot of inspiration from being outdoors, in nature, especially right now because so many people are planting and working in their gardens.

What current trend in wedding flowers do you appreciate?

Moving away from blush pink is probably my favorite trend right now. I like that brides are getting away from as much greenery as they’ve used the past few years. I appreciate the more classic feel of fuller bouquets versus a cascade of greenery.

What advice do you have for brides and grooms?

Be realistic with your budget. If you are looking at a photo shoot in a magazine for inspiration, keep in mind that you are probably seeing high-end products that may not be in your price range.

Let your floral designer direct you to flowers that will give you the same look and feel but within your budget. Be honest about your budget when you meet with your florist. Most of the time we can make your dream come true within your budget.

Be realistic about what the future could hold. Don’t ask your vendors to do something that is uncomfortable for them or that could put them at risk. Be considerate of your makeup artists, hair dressers, caterers, servers, florists, and all your vendors. Everyone has to take the necessary precautions to stay safe. ♥ FALL/WINTER 2020 • WWW.BRIDESTL.COM

169

ESSENTIAL GUIDE A list of local businesses to make planning your wedding in the St. Louis metropolitan area easier

CONTENTS Planners and Consultants

180

177

Reception Sites

180

177

Registry

180

Invitations/Stationers

177

Rehearsal Dinner Sites

180

174

Jewelry

178

Rentals

182

Caterers

175

Lighting & Décor

178

Special Touches

183

Ceremony Sites

176

Mother of the Bride

178

Transportation

183

Decor

176

Music & Entertainment

178

Videographers

184

Destination Weddings

176

Online Planning

179

Favors

176

Photobooths

179

Florists

176

Photographers

179

171

Formalwear

177

Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties

173

Gifts

Beauty and Health

173

Honeymoons

Bridal Gowns & Salons

174

Cakes & Confections

Accommodations

170

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©PINXIT PHOTOGRAPHY AND CINEMATOGRAPHY

GROOM CEDRIC JONES AND HIS BEST MEN. SEE HIS BIG DAY ON PAGE 80.

ACCOMMODATIONS CHASE PARK PLAZA ROYAL SONESTA ST. LOUIS 212 N. Kingshighway 314-633-3000 www.sonesta.com/chaseparkplaza THE CHESHIRE SAINT LOUIS 6300 Clayton Road 314-647-7300 www.cheshirestl.com CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL ST. LOUIS AIRPORT 11228 Lone Eagle Drive 314-291-6700 www.cphotelstlouis.com DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 16625 Swingley Ridge Road - Chesterfield 636-532-5000 www.doubletree3.hilton.com DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 1000 Eastport Plaza Drive - Collinsville 618-345-2800 www.doubletreecollinsville.com DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 1973 Craigshire Road - Westport 314-434-0100 www.doubletreewestport.com DRURY HOTELS 800-436-1126 groups@druryhotels.com FOUR SEASONS HOTEL 999 North 2nd Street 314-881-5800 www.fourseasons.com/stlouis HILTON ST. LOUIS AIRPORT HOTEL 10330 Natural Bride Road 314-426-5500 www.hiltonstlouisairport.com HOLIDAY INN ROUTE 66 10709 Watson Road 314-821-6600 HILTON ST. LOUIS AT THE BALLPARK One South Broadway 314-421-1776 www.hiltonstlouis.com HILTON ST. LOUIS FRONTENAC 1335 S. Lindbergh Boulevard 314-993-1100 www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com HOLIDAY INN SOUTH COUNTY CENTER 6921 South Lindbergh Blvd 314-892-3600 www.holidayinn.com HOTEL ST. LOUIS 705 Olive Street 314-241-4300 www.hotelsaintlouis.com

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Cater Your Next Event With

Essential Guide HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS AT THE ARCH 315 Chestnut Street 314-655-1234 www.hyattregencystlouis.com INNSBROOK RESORT 596 Aspen Way Drive Innsbrook, MO 636-928-3366 www.innsbrook-resort.com THE LAST HOTEL 1501 Washington Ave. 866-752-7700 www.thelasthotelstl.com LIVE! BY LOEWS 799 Clark Avenue www.loewshotels.com 314-597-9700 LODGE AT GRANT’S TRAIL 4398 Hoffmeister Avenue 314-638-3340 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com MAGNOLIA ST. LOUIS – A TRIBUTE PORTFOLIO HOTEL 421 North 8th Street 314-436-9000 www.magnoliahotels.com MARRIOTT ST. LOUIS GRAND 800 Washington Avenue 314-418-5820 www.marriottstlouisgrand.com MOONRISE HOTEL 6177 Delmar Boulevard 314-721-1111 www.moonrisehotel.com THE RITZ-CARLTON, ST. LOUIS 100 Carondelet Plaza 314-863-6300 www.ritzcarlton.com SEVEN GABLES INN 26 N. Meramec Ave. 314-863-8400 www.sevengablesinn.com SHERATON WESTPORT PLAZA & LAKESIDE CHALET 900 Westport Plaza 314-878-1500 www.sheratonwestport.com

To book your next event, off site or in house, Call or email: 314-776-3100 mamasonthehill@gmail.com 172

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2132 Edwards “On The Hill”

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION HOTEL 1820 Market Street 314-231-1234 www.stlunionstationhotel.com THE WILDWOOD HOTEL 2801 Fountain Place, Wildwood 636-733-9100 www.thewildwoodhotel.com

BACHELORETTE/ BACHELOR PARTIES 360 ULTIMATE ROOFTOP BAR 1 South Broadway 314-241-8439 www.360-stl.com BALLPARK VILLAGE 601 Clark Street 314-241-5595 www.stlballparkvillage.com BUDWEISWER BEERMASTER TOUR 1200 Lynch Street www.budweisertours.com EL BURRO LOCO DOWNTOWN 1101 Lucas Ave 314-833-3211 www.elburroloco.com FLAMINGO BOWL 1117 Washington Ave www.flamingobowl.com 314-436-6666 GRANITE CITY FOOD & BREWERY 11411 Olive Blvd 314-432-3535 www.gcfb.net METROLINK LIGHT RAIL & METROBUS www.metrostlouis.org SCHLAFLY BREWERY TOURS 7260 Southwest Avenue - Maplewood 314-241-BEER ext. 2 www.schlafly.com TIN ROOF ST. LOUIS 1000 Clark Avenue 314-240-5400 www.tinroofstlouis.com

BEAUTY & HEALTH BLISS BEAUTY BAR 1120 Technology Drive 636-329-9261 www.blissbeautybarstl.com BRIDES BY BRADY 14145 Clayton Road 662-801-5898 www.bridesbybrady.com THE CLIPPER MOBILE SALON 314-265-6233 www.TheClipperMobileSalon.com EMILY MILLER MAKEUP & HAIR LLC www.emily-miller.com THE MANE ATTRACTION 1501 Vandalia (Hwy 159)-Collinsville 618-344-3778 www.maneattractionhairstudio.com ST. LOUIS BRIDAL HAIR & MAKEUP www.stlouisbridalhairandmakeup.com

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Essential Guide BRIDAL GOWNS & SALONS BELLA BRIDESMAIDS 13428 Clayton Road 314-205-1191 www.bellabridesmaids.com BERRYBRIDGE 9904 Clayton Road 314-997-1439 www.berrybridgebridal.com BRIDAL PARLOUR 3630 Green Mount Crossing Dr, Shiloh, IL 618-622-0880 www.bridalparlour.net MIA GRACE 108 Chesterfield Towne Center 636-778-3433 www.miagracebridal.com PATRICE J BRIDAL 8717 David Ave. 314-292-9652 www.patricejbridal.com SIGNATURE BRIDAL 703 Long Road Crossing, Suite 1 636-778-3200 www.signaturebridalstlouis.com TOWN & COUNTRY BRIDAL AND FORMALWEAR 2730 N. Ballas Road 314-863-7200 www.townandcountrybride.com THE ULTIMATE BRIDE 1115 S. Big Bend Blvd.

314-961-9997 www.theultimatebride.com

CAKES & CONFECTIONS THE BAKED BEAR 6140 Delmar in the Loop 314-578-8576 www.TheBakedBear.com/st-louis THE CAKERY 1420 Tamm Avenue 314-647-6000 www.thecakerybakery.net COLD STONE CREAMERY 3228 Green Mount Crossing Drive, Shiloh, IL #7 Ronnie’s Plaza, St. Louis 618-622-0044 www.coldstonecreamery.com THE CUP 28 Maryland Plaza, Central West End 314-367-6111 1057 Century Drive, Edwardsville, IL 618-656-2287 www.cravethecup.com NEW DAY GLUTEN FREE 7807 Clayton Road 314-833-5180 www.newdayglutenfree.com

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SARAH’S CAKE SHOP 10 Clarkson Wilson Centre, Chesterfield 314-295-1198 www.sarahscakeshopstl.com

ADAM'S SMOKEHOUSE 2819 Watson Road 314-875-9890 www.adamssmokehouse.com

FAROTTO'S 9525 Manchester Road www.farottos.com 314-962-4155

THE SWEET DIVINE 1801 South 9th Street 314-669-9339 www.thesweetdivine.com

BAILEYS CATERING 314-899-0430 www.baileysrestaurants.com

HOLLYBERRY CATERING 10037 Manchester Road 314-835-9977 www.hollyberrycatering.com

WEDDING WONDERLAND 449 Dunn Road 314-837-5015 www.wwcakeshop.com

CATERERS Also see REHEARSAL DINNER on page 185 and the RECEPTION SITES grid on page 162. Please note that many of the restaurants listed here may also be able to help you with small, intimate wedding receptions.

23 CITY BLOCKS CATERING 1600 North Broadway 314-615-2480 www.23cityblocks.com 612 NORTH EVENTS AND CATERING 612 North 2nd Street 314-889-0612 www.612north.com

BOGART'S SMOKE HOUSE 1627 South 9th Street 314-603-2003 www.bogartssmokehouse.com BUTLER’S PANTRY 1414 Park Avenue 314-664-7680 www.butlerspantry.com CALLIER'S CATERING 10041 Manchester Road www.callierscatering.com 636-230-0019 CATERING ST. LOUIS 2141 59th Street 314-961-7588 x221 www.cateringstlouis.com CES & JUDY'S CATERING 314-991-6700 www.cesandjudys.com

MAMAS ON THE HILL 2132 Edwards 314-776-3100 www.mamasonthehill.com ORLANDO’S CATERING 4300 Hoffmeister 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza 314-638-6660 www.orlandogardens.com PAPPY’S SMOKEHOUSE 3106 Olive Street 314-535-4340 www.pappyssmokehouse.com THE PASTA HOUSE COMPANY CATERING 2200 59th Street 314-644-1400 www.thepastahouse.com

Invite Cold Stone To Your Next Party!

Wedding Reception Rehearsal Dinner

Bridal Shower And Any Other Special Event!

Treat your Guests to the Ultimate Ice Cream Experience With Ice Cream Catered by Cold Stone Creamery An Essential Business 618-567-6000 jjsweettooth@charter.net 3228 Green Mount Crossing Drive Shiloh, IL #7 Ronnie’s Plaza South County, MO

www.coldstonecreamery.com

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Essential Guide PATTY LONG CATERING 412 N Euclid Ave. 314-621-9598 www.pattylongcatering.com

THE SOCIAL AFFAIR 2232 Thurman Avenue 314-735-5527 www.thesocialaffairstl.com

RUSSO'S CATERING 9904 Page Avenue 314-427-6771 www.russosgourmet.com

SOUTHERN 314-295-8220 www.stlsouthern.com

CEREMONY SITES

DÉCOR ALL SEASONS LINEN 8312 Olive Blvd 314 983-0090 www.allseasonslinen.com AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER 314-899-9321 www.AATRstl.com

See CEREMONY SITES listings on page 166 WARSON WOODS ANTIQUE GALLERY 10091 Manchester Road 314-909-0123 www.MissouriAntiqueMalls.com

DESTINATION WEDDINGS INNSBROOK RESORT 596 Aspen Way Drive, Innsbrook, MO 636-928-3366 www.innsbrook-resort.com TRAVEL HAUS OF ST. LOUIS 11229 Concord Village Ave 314-842-6000 www.travelhausstlouis.com WASHINGTON MISSOURI 636-239-2715 www.visitwashmo.com

FAVORS See CAKES & CONFECTIONS, GIFTS AND STATIONERS THE CUP 28 Maryland Plaza, Central West End 314-367-6111 1057 Century Drive, Edwardsville, IL 618-656-2287 www.cravethecup.com GIFTS 636-458-2439 www.giftsstlouis.com HOLLYBERRY CATERING 10037 Manchester Road 314-835-9977 www.hollyberrycatering.com

FLORISTS AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER 314-899-9321 www.AATRstl.com ARTISTRY 2734 LaSalle Street 314-772-1301 www.artistryflorist.com AYLA'S FLORAL STUDIO 417 W. Orchard Ave 314-394-1400 www.afloralstudio.com BELLI FIORI—FLORAL DESIGN STUDIO 2705 LaSalle Street 314-776-2200 www.bellifioristl.com

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THE FLOWER SHOP AT THE CHASE 212 Kingshighway Boulevard 314-772-1301 www.artistryflorist.com ROSES + MINT 810 N. 2nd Street Saint Charles, Mo 314-502-9950 www.rosesandmint.com

WARSON WOODS ANTIQUE GALLERY 10091 Manchester Road 314-909-0123 www.MissouriAntiqueMalls.com

HONEYMOONS TRAVEL HAUS OF ST. LOUIS 11229 Concord Village Ave 314-842-6000 www.travelhausstlouis.com

INVITATIONS/STATIONERS PAPER PATCH 12009 Manchester Road 314-821-6561 www.paperpatchinvitesyou.com THE SERVICE BUREAU 9973 Clayton Road 314-991-1104

SCHNUCKS FLORIST & GIFTS 9220 Shortline Drive 314-997-2444 www.schnucksfloral.com SISTER FLORAL DESIGN STUDIO 822 Hanley Industrial Court 314-821-0076 www.sistersflowers.net THORN STUDIO 3301 Meramec Street 314-808-0706 www.thornstudio.net WILDFLOWERS 1013 Ohio 314-772-9900 www.wildflowersstl.com

FORMALWEAR Also see BRIDAL GOWNS & SALONS SAVVI FORMALWEAR Alton Square Mall, 618-465-1110 Chesterfield Mall, 636-532-1800 Columbia Mall, 573-445-6602 Mid Rivers Mall, 636-970-2281 St. Clair Square, 618-632-8415 Saint Louis Galleria, 314-727-0088 South County Center, 314-894-2991 University City Loop, 314-725-2150 West County Center, 314-821-0070 White Oak Mall, 217-787-8150 www.savviwedding.com STALLONE’S FORMAL WEAR Chesterfield, 636-519-7111 Ladue, 314-997-8900 Maryland Heights, 314-576-5900 South County, 314-729-0004 O’Fallon, 636-272-4799 www.stallonesformalwear.com

GIFTS—ATTENDANT GIFTS, FAVORS, HOSPITALITY BAGS AND ACCESSORIES Also see BRIDAL REGISTRY, FLORISTS, JEWELERS and STATIONERS ENCHANTING EMBELLISHMENTS 4732 McPherson 314-361-5300 www.enchantingembellishments.net GIFTS 636-458-2439 www.giftsstlouis.com

Here, there, a & any m nywhere enu Weddings Rehearsals Private Parties Special Occasions www.pastahouse.com Call (314) 644-1400 for your next meeting or party.

Preferred Caterer for: • The Old Post Office • The Jewel Box in Forest Park • The World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park • The Lodge in Des Peres • Center of Clayton • The Magic House • NEO on Locust • Mahler Ballroom

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Essential Guide JEWELRY

THE SILVER LADY 4736 McPherson Avenue 314-367-7587 6364 Delmar Blvd.

314-727-0704 7318 Manchester Road 314-720-9315 www.thesilver-lady.com

Also see GIFTS DIAMONDS DIRECT 11619 Olive Street Boulevard 314-942-3777 www.diamondsdirect.com JORD WATCHES www.woodwatches.com

TIMEKEEPERS 17 N. Meramec, Clayton 314-721-4548 www.timekeepersclayton.com

Eat, Drink and Be Married!

11118 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur 314-991-0994 www.timekeepersstl.com

LIGHTING & DÉCOR ALOBAR’S INC 716 Hanley Industrial Court 314-781-7600 www.alobars.com COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS WE DO PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO, PHOTO BOOTH & LIGHTING 314-991-5656 www.CompleteStLouis.com EXCLUSIVE EVENTS 13633 Lakefront Drive 314-995-7282 www.exclusiveeventsinc.com MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 1334 Strassner Drive 314-918-9335 www.millenniumproductions.com PURE ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY 1201 N. Warson 314-256-9613 www.pecparty.com

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE/ SPECIAL OCCASION MIA GRACE 108 Chesterfield Towne Center 636-778-3433 www.miagracebridal.com NEIMAN MARCUS Plaza Frontenac 314-567-9811

Celebrat e Yo "I DO" w ur ith Bogart's BBQ!

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Plaza Frontenac 314-567-9200 TOWN & COUNTRY BRIDAL AND FORMALWEAR 2730 N. Ballas Road 314-863-7200 www.townandcountrybride.com

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT ABE AGENCY AMERICAN BANDS ENTERTAINMENT 636-265-0500 www.abeagency.com ALLEGRO ENTERTAINMENT 505 West Clark Street 636-493-6004 www.allegrostl.com

Weddings | Rehearsal Dinners

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COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS WE DO PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO, PHOTO BOOTH & LIGHTING 314-991-5656 www.CompleteStLouis.com

MANHASSET STRINGS 636-537-0405 www.manhassetstrings.com MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 1334 Strassner Drive 314-918-9335 www.millenniumproductions.com PURE ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY 1201 N. Warson St. Louis, Mo 63132 314-256-9613 www.pecparty.com

MEMORIES ARE FOREVER 314-878-5657 www.memoriesareforever.com

COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS WE DO PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO, PHOTO BOOTH & LIGHTING 314-991-5656 www.CompleteStLouis.com

XOXO ALICE BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY 808-258-9064 XOXOAlice.com

L PHOTOGRAPHIE 449 North Euclid #200 314-449-8124 www.lphotographie.com

WHITE KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY 314-471-8027 www.whiteklumpphotography.com

THE ROSEWOOD ENSEMBLE 314-609-0702 www.rosewood-ensemble.com

THIS LITTLE PIGGY

THE SPECTRUM BAND 314-306-4313 www.spectrumband.net

WENT TO A

TKO DJ’S 314.647.3000 www.tko-djs.com

ONLINE PLANNING SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE www.bridestl.com WASHINGTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 636-239-2715 www.visitwashmo.com

PHOTOBOOTHS

Since 2008

WEDDING

Weddings | Rehearsal Dinners | Showers

COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS WE DO PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO, PHOTO BOOTH & LIGHTING 314-991-5656 www.CompleteStLouis.com FISH EYE FUN 314-621-8638 www.fisheyefun.com MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood 314-918-9335 www.millenniumproductions.com PARTY ROAMER 314-356-8940 www.partyroamer.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS ABBIE TAKES PICTURES 314-616-2794 www.AbbieTakesPictures.com BOUDOIR BY TRACY LYNN www.boudoirbytracylynn.com CMS PHOTOGRAPHY LLC 636-352-9074 www.cmsphotographyllc.com CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY 314-270-2699 www.conner-photography.com

Now Offering Appetizers!

314.607.2446

catering@pappyssmokehouse.com pappyssmokehouse.com 3106 Olive Street | St. Louis, MO 63103 FALL/WINTER 2020 • WWW.BRIDESTL.COM

179

Essential Guide ZACH DALIN PHOTOGRAPHY 1015 Washington Ave #50 Saint Louis, MO 63101 314-941-6253 www.zachdalin.com

BEFORE I DO 314-640-2123 www.beforeidostl.com

PLANNERS & CONSULTANTS

DIVINE EVENTS 314-669-5933 www.mydivineevents.com FLOURISH EVENTS & CONCIERGE 314-803-8134 www.flourishstl.com

ALTAR'D EVENTS 11 South Newstead Avenue 314-261-4211 www.altardevents.com

MAUREEN RENEE EVENTS 222 S. Meramec Ave., Ste. 202 314-800-0660 www.maureenreneeevents.com NATALIE'S BRIDES 2647 Dalton Ave. 314-802-7701 www.nataliesbrides.com SIMCHA’S EVENTS 314-458-5463 www.simchasevents.com WEDDINGS BY RENEE 314-616-4600 www.stlweddingsbyrenee.com

THIRD DEGREE GLASS FACTORY

ARE YOU REGISTERED? As soon as you've set the wedding date, you can begin your bridal registry—experts recommend starting four to six months before the wedding. Start by taking an inventory of what you already have, then create a wish-list of what you need and want. Make an appointment with a bridal registry consultant at a major department store or specialty shop that carries the items on your list. Choose items in a variety of price ranges so your guests can shop within their means.

GLASS CEREMONIES

RECEPTION SITES See RECEPTION SITE GRID on page 162.

REGISTRY CRATE AND BARREL 1 The Boulevard 314-725-6380 www.crateandbarrel.com MACY’S Store locations below.

1-800-835-9716 Chesterfield, 636-532-3800 St. Louis Galleria, 314-726-1810 MidRivers, 636-278-6660 South County, 314-892-0110 St. Clair Square, 618-624-2000 West County Center, 314-966-0017 www.macys.com/locator

REHEARSAL DINNERS, SHOWERS & BRUNCHES Also see RECEPTION SITE GRID on Page 162 and CATERERS beginning on page 175.

Choose your colors of glass frit and combine them at your wedding.

Afterwards, one of our skilled glassblowers will transform them into a commemorative glass masterpiece you will cherish for years to come.

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612 NORTH EVENT SPACE 612 North 2nd Street 314-899-0612 www.612north.com BALLPARK VILLAGE 601 Clark Street 314-241-5595 www.stlballparkvillage.com

BARNETT ON WASHINGTON 3207 Washington Avenue 844-462-2763 www.barnettonwashington.com

MAMA’S ON THE HILL 2132 Edwards 314-776-3100 www.mamasonthehill.com

MOULIN EVENTS 2017 Chouteau Avenue 314-241-4949 www.moulinevents.com

BOGART'S SMOKE HOUSE 1627 South 9th Street 314-603-2003 www.bogartssmokehouse.com

MARY ANN'S TEA ROOM 4732 McPherson Avenue 314-361-5303 www.maryannstearoom.com

OLD HICKORY GOLF CLUB 1 Dye Club Drive, St. Peters 636-477-8960 www.oldhickorygc.com

CARDINALS NATION 601 Clark Street - Ballpark Village 314-345-9880 www.cardinalsnation.com CARDINALS SPECIAL EVENTS 700 Clark Street - Busch Stadium 314-345-9630 www.cardinals.com/events CHARLIE GITTO’S “ON THE HILL” 5226 Shaw Avenue 314-772-8898 www.charliegittos.com THE CHESHIRE 6300 Clayton Road 314-647-7300 www.cheshirestl.com CITY COTTAGE ON CHOUTEAU 3800 Chouteau Avenue 314-961-7588 www.cateringstlouis.com CYRANO’S CAFÉ 603 E. Lockwood Ave. 314-963-3232 www.cyranos.com DOMINIC'S ON THE HILL 5101 Wilson Avenue 314-771-1632 www.dominicsrestaurant.com EL BURRO LOCO DOWNTOWN 1101 Lucas Ave 314-833-3211 www.elburroloco.com FAROTTO'S 9525 Manchester Road www.farottos.com 314-962-4155 GRANITE CITY FOOD & BREWERY 11411 Olive Blvd 314-432-3535 www.gcfb.net

CELEBRATE YOUR BIG DAY SOUTHERN STYLE! WEDDINGS | REHEARSAL DINNERS | SHOWERS

u!

Let's talk men

Chicken Fish Sides Mac 'n Cheese Chopped Salad Biscuits

GUIDO’S 5046 Shaw Ave - The Hill 314-771-4900 www.guidosstl.com LEMP MANSION 3322 Demenil Place 314-664-8024 www.lempmansion.com THE LODGE AT GRANT’S TRAIL

BY ORLANDOS 4398 Hoffmeister 314-638-3340 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com

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Essential Guide OLIVA ON THE HILL 4915 Daggett Street 314-961-7588 www.cateringstlouis.com

Specializing in Wedding Cakes, Dessert Bars, Cupcakes, Groom’s Cakes

PAPPY'S SMOKEHOUSE 3106 Olive Street 314-535-4340 www.pappyssmokehouse.com SEN THAI 1000 Washington Ave 314-436-3456 www.senthaibistro.com SPAZIO WESTPORT 12031 Lackland Road 314-576-0400 www.spaziowestport.com SQUARE ONE BREWERY 1727 Park Avenue 314-231-2537 www.squareonebrewery.com

10 Clarkson Wilson Centre, Chesterfield, MO 63017

636-728-1140 • SarahsCakeShopSTL.com Weddings.SarahsCakeShop@gmail.com

SQWIRES 1415 South 18th Street 314-865-3522 www.sqwires.com ST LOUIS CAROUSEL 15189 Olive Boulevard 314-615-8344 www.stlouiscarousel.com TIN ROOF ST. LOUIS 1000 Clark Avenue 314-240-5400 www.tinroofstlouis.com

RENTALS ALL SEASONS LINEN 8312 Olive Blvd 314 983-0090 www.allseasonslinen.com ALOBAR’S INC 716 Hanley Industrial Court 314-781-7600 www.alobars.com EXCLUSIVE EVENTS 13633 Lakefront Drive 314-995-7282 www.exclusiveeventsinc.com GRAND RENTAL STATION, NOW GRAND EVENTS 570 Rudder Rd., Fenton 636-343-PARTY (7278) www.grandrental-stl.com

We specialize in wedding planning for the greater St. Louis and work hard for each of our clients, helping them plan to have the wedding of their dreams - stress free and with confidence.

2647 Dalton Avenue • St. Louis, MO 63139

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MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 1334 Strassner Drive 314-918-9335 www.millennium-productions.com TRAUBE TENTS & STRUCTURES 800-352-TENT www.traubetent.com

©SHEVELEV VLADIMIR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

SELECTING YOUR TRANSPORTATION Transportation vendors advise couples not to delay making reservations. Limousines and party buses are more in demand at certain times of the year, such as during prom in the spring and homecoming in the fall. Booking

Make your wedding unforgettable with St Louis’ premiere string ensemble, the Rosewood Ensemble. Our extensive repertoire and experience will accommodate any request from sophisticated classical music to memorable popular music.

Consummate professionalism and attention to detail set the Rosewood Ensemble apart.

nine to 12 months in advance is recommended, especially during

www.rosewood-ensemble.com | 314-609-0702 | Dee@rosewood-ensemble.com

the peak months of April, May and June in the spring and September, October and November in the fall. Vendors also caution against choosing your transportation based solely on the price. Safety and service level should be at the top of the list of considerations.

SPECIAL TOUCHES ALOBAR’S INC. 716 Hanley Industrial Court 314-781-7600 www.alobars.com IMO’S PIZZA Imospizza.com

TRANSPORTATION ALL ABOUT YOU LIMOS 314-631-0747 or 618-281-2200 www.aaylimos.com BEST TRANSPORTATION 8531 Page Avenue, Suite 160 314-989-1500 www.besttransportation.com JED LIMOUSINES 5800 Fee Fee Road 314-429-2200 www.jedlimousine.com

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Essential Guide

Essential Guide SAINT LOUIS CARRIAGE & TROLLEY TOURS St. Louis Carriage 314-621-3334 St. Louis Trolley 314-241-1400 www.stlouiscarriagecompany.com

VIDEOGRAPHERS COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS WE DO PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO, PHOTO BOOTH & LIGHTING 314-991-5656 www.CompleteStLouis.com MILLENNIUM VIDEO 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood 314-918-9335 www.millenniumproductions.com

©MEATBULL/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Photo Credit: T. Rhodes Photography

WESTVIEW MEDIA 314-726-6222 www.westviewmedia.com

SELECTING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER Most photographers have websites.

This is a great way for you

Patrice J. Bridal

RENT, BUY, CREATE THE GOWN OF YOUR DREAMS

WWW.PATRICEJBRIDAL.COM

to preview their work and get a glimpse of their overall style before you set an appointment to meet them and see their portfolio.

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From Primitive to Palatial Finest Multi- Dealer Antique Gallery 150 Dealers-30,000 Sq.Ft. 300 Showcases 10091 Manchester Road 314-909-0123 www.warsonwoodsantiques.com

Moonrise Hotel Offering a variety of distinctive event spaces for intimate wedding events, including the Rooftop Terrace with the spectacular views of downtown St. Louis and Forest Park, perfect for ceremonies up to 120. For your reception, head over to the modern rooftop all-seasons Twilight Room, accommodating 80 guests seated or 150 for a cocktail reception, or the brand new elegant Gemini Room, which can accomodate 81 guests seated or 120 guests for a cocktail reception. Guests can “take the elevator home” after the event or keep the party going at one of our 3 A.M. Rooftop Bars. Rated 4 Diamond in service and amenities, and out of this world for fun and ambiance.

Wedding too large to fit?

They also host rehearsal dinners and wedding brunches.

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Style

That Perfect Something

Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

— A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION —

Stallone’s Formal Wear Best Fit, Service, Style and PRICE. Visit our store and you will be convinced there is a difference in where you purchase or rent your formal wear. Worldwide Service for Out-of-Town Wedding Party.

Barnett on Washington Imagine an unforgettable moment, as you and your wedding party make your grand entrance down our historic marble staircase. Creating a memory not to be forgotten. The Barnett on Washington can host your Ceremony, Reception or both!

Please contact us at Events@BarnettonWashington.com or visit our website at www.BarnettonWashington.com

Chesterfield | 173 Hilltown Village 636-519-7111 Ladue | 9644 Clayton Rd 314-997-8900 Maryland Hts | 87 Progress Parkway 314-576-5900 O’Fallon | 2439 Hwy K 636-272-4799 South County | 5714 S. Lindbergh 314-729-0004 www.stallonesformalwear.com Entirely Fitting Since 1899

Style

That Perfect Something

Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

— A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION —

Bella Bridesmaids, St. Louis 13428 Clayton Road St. Louis, MO 63131 314.205.1191 p stlouis@bellabridesmaids.com www.bellabridesmaids.com

CMS Photography + Film LLC Authentic, bright and airy, adventurous, natural light photographer.

Our mission is to capture a story that will last forever. Missouri and destination wedding photographer. cmsphotollc@gmail.com 636-352-9074 www.cmsphotographyllc.com

Divine Events St. Louis’ leading wedding planning company with 12+ years of experience, planning and coordinating weddings/events to the last detail, so You can enjoy it! Whether you need help from the beginning of the planning process or you just need that Divine Event finishing touch.

We are here to make you a guest at your event.

314-669-5933 • www.mydivineevents.com

Timekeepers Specializing in the Repair, Restoration, Purchase & Sales Of Timepieces, Music Boxes & Jewelry, as well as custom Jewelry Designing & Hand Engraving. We provide unique Estate Jewelry & Timepieces for your Bridesmaids & Groomsmen, as well as that Special Something for your Special Someone.

The Estate Jewelry Experts 17N. Meramec - Clayton 9495 Olive, Ste. C - Olivette (314) 721-4548 (314) 991-0994 www.Timekeepersclayton.com www.TimekeepersSTL.com

St Louis’ largest luxury transportation provider since 1967.

314.429.2200 | www.jedlimousine.com

Rehearsals, Brunches & Showers A Special Advertising Section Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

Cardinals Nation Restaurant & Bar - A B V Cardinals Nation Restaurant & Bar is the perfect place to celebrate your special occasion. Our experienced staff is standing by to help you plan your rehearsal dinner, engagement party, shower or reception. From local favorites to innovative creations, the dining experience is matched only by the world championship service.

Private rooms, including the Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum, are available to add a touch of exclusivity and enhance your overall experience.

Contact us to make a reservation or to book an event.

601 Clark Street | St. Louis, MO 63102 | 314.345.9880 website: cardinalsnation.com email: specialevents@cardinals.com

Saint Louis Zoo Located in the heart of beautiful Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo offers the most unique venues available for your intimate gathering or ornate reception.

Whether you envision your special day in a lush garden or near a moonlit veranda, the Zoo’s expert event planners will ensure every detail is executed to perfection.

Your event will be impeccably catered, with gourmet entrees prepared by our culinary experts.

We would love to work with you to make your dream event a reality.

314-646-4855 www.stlzoo.org/events

The Lodge at Grant’s Trail Located in South County, this unique bed and breakfast is prefect for Wedding Receptions, Ceremonies and Rehearsal Dinners.

The great room boasts a cozy three-story fireplace and a giant wall of windows.

Seating up to 125 guests, the great room is perfect for small, intimate events.

The Lodge is also perfect for guests who require overnight accommodations.

There are 8 different themed guest rooms.

4398 Hoffmeister Avenue • For Reservations call 314.638.3340 www.LodgeAtGrantsTrail.com

Create the wedding experience of your dreams starting with a personalized consultation.

Palladium Saint Louis A piece of history brought back to life in the heart of Lafayette Square — offering views of St. Louis’ skyline with sleek décor, private parking and easy access to all major highways. Demonstrating versatility at its finest, Palladium Saint Louis also features custom partitions that can create a more intimate setting for smaller groups. Complete with theatrical lighting and state-of-the-art audio + visual equipment, Palladium Saint Louis is perfect for every style — simple elegance to over-the-top elaborate!

1400 Park Place, St. Louis, MO 63104 • 314.881.4301 • Palladium-STL.com

Robin Albach Director of Catering Robin.Albach@ritzcarlton.com 314-863-6300 Ritzcarlton.com/stlouis

612North Event Space + Catering

Pappy’s Smokehouse

612North is located in the historic Laclede’s Landing Cutlery Building, encompassing three spaces each unique in their own styles. Modern meets history here. Located next to the iconic St. Louis Arch, 612North delivers an unrivaled paramount dining experience with a mouthwatering menu only made from the finest quality ingredients. Our team is committed to helping you create the perfect backdrop for your celebration.

612 North 2nd Street, Saint Louis, MO 63102 • 314-899-0612 Contact: events@612north.com • www.612north.com

You love that award-winning Memphis Style BBQ at Pappy’s, so imagine how your guests will feel! Pappy’s Smokehouse is perfect for your rehearsal dinner, reception, shower or brunch. Now offering appetizers! You choose the location and we’ll bring the barbecue!

3106 Olive Street, St. Louis, MO 63103 • Catering 314.607.2446 www.pappyssmokehouse.com

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Charlie Gitto’s St. Louis’ Favorite Italian Dining Experience and the perfect setting for your rehearsal dinner.

Charlie Gitto’s On the Hill 5226 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 314.772.8898

Cardinals Special Events

Charlie Gitto’s at Hollywood Casino 777 Casino Center Drive, Maryland Height, MO 63043 314.770.7663

At Cardinals Special Events, we know that practice makes perfect!

So, when planning your rehearsal dinner, let us help turn your experience into a unforgettable affair for you and your guests.

Our field and 17 distinct venues offer a variety of unique spaces where you can enjoy elegant dining, gourmet foods and panoramic views like no other in St. Louis.

www.charliegittos.com

Undeniably St. Louis. Absolutely unforgettable.

Reserve your date today.

Visit Cardinals.com/events | 314-345-9630

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Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch

Marriott St. Louis Grand

Hyatt is an ideal venue for all your wedding related events. Book your wedding reception with us and take 10% off your bridal shower, rehearsal dinner or brunch. Let us host your personalized bridal shower to kick off your wedding festivities. Entertain your closest friends and family in one of our private event spaces for your rehearsal dinner. The perfect ending to the perfect weekend is brunch at Hyatt. We’ll help you customize menus for each event so you can concentrate on preparing for your big day.

Contact our Events Department at 314.342.4655.

315 Chestnut Street, St. Louis, MO 63102 • hyattregencystlouis.com

A Pairing of Tastes. A Marriage of Flavors. When it comes to rehearsal dinners, our culinary staff at the Marriott St. Louis Grand will work with to you to create menus that reflect your own special style. Maybe there’s a family tradition passed down from generations you want to keep, or cultures brought together in a special way. You may want to break a few rules or combine ideas to make it your own. No matter what you have envisioned, we’ll work hard to make it a reality.

You’ll be so happy you said yes to the Marriott St. Louis Grand.

800 Washington Avenue • 314-418-5820 • MarriottStLouisGrand.com

Farotto’s On and off site catering available.

We have four private areas on site for groups of 10-150. We offer many differnt levels of pricing on our packages.

We are the preferred caterer at over 10 venues.

Visit our website for more photos and our menu.

You can submit a catering proposal request on our website or give us a call.

9525 Manchester Road, St. Louis, MO 63119 Contact catering@farottos.com 314-962-0048 www.farottos.com

Holiday Inn SW - Route 66 Your Dream Wedding, Rehearsal Dinner, Shower or Brunch is within reach.

With over 18,000 square feet of banquet facilities, the Holiday Inn SW – Route 66 awaits transformation into the reception venue you have always dreamed. Our magnificent space, exceptional culinary team and uncompromising level of service will create an event you and your guests will never forget. Explore us online at www.hiroute66.com where you can view our reception packages or submit an inquiry.

10709 Watson Road • 314-620-2146 • www.hiroute66.com

Sen Thai Asian Bistro

Hilton St. Louis Frontenac

What better way to kick off your wedding weekend than an amazing dinner for your guests at one of the best restaurant in Downtown St.Louis? Sen Thai Asian Bistro offers a wide range of Asian inspired food that you can ensure there will be a good selection to satisfy all of your guests. Our private area can accommodate up to 30 guests which is perfect for an intimate rehearsal dinner or shower.

1000 Washington Ave., St.Louis, MO 63101 314-436-3456 • www.senthaibistro.com

True to the French influence of the suburb it calls home, the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac is a destination synonymous with elegance and comfort where professional staff awaits dedicated to making every event memorable.

The Ambassadeur & Clayton Ballrooms will accommodate groups from 25-600 guests and our 263 beautifully appointed guest rooms offer comfort and style in one of Saint Louis’ most prestigious communities.

1335 South Lindbergh Blvd.; St. Louis, MO 63131 314.993.1100 • www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com

Old Hickory Golf Club Old Hickory Golf Club is the perfect setting for your Rehearsal Dinner. Whether you are looking for an upscale environment or relaxing evening our private rooms will make it a memorable occasion for you and your guests. We offer a wide variety of menus to personalize your event and our rooms provide you with breathtaking views of our award winning golf course.

Old Hickory Golf Club 636-477-8960 #1 Dye Club Dr., St. Peters, MO 63304 www.oldhickorygc.com

With a diverse array of activities and venues, Ballpark Village offers incredible flexibility for your engagement, rehearsal, or wedding, accommodating any group size or budget. Have an event unlike anything you’ve ever experienced at the region’s premiere entertainment destination!

601 Clark Avenue, Downtown St. Louis • 314.241.5595 www.StlBallParkVillage.com

Panorama

Moonrise Hotel

Located in the Saint Louis Art Museum’s new East Building designed by renowned British Architect David Chipperfield, Panorama offers full service dining in an elegant setting. With breathtaking Forest Park views from its floorto-ceiling windows, Panorama offers regional contemporary cuisine showcasing local, sustainably produced ingredients. Menus change seasonally.

One Fine Arts Drive, Saint Louis, MO 63110 • 314-655-5387 • www.slam.org

The Moonrise hotel offers a variety of distinctive event spaces perfect for intimate weddings, rehearsal dinners, showers, brunches and guestroom accommodations.

Contact Moonrise Hotel’s wedding specialists 314-685-3418 or sales@moonrisehotel.com

Seven Gables Inn Seven Gables Inn is a perfect spot for intimate receptions, ceremonies, showers, and rehearsal dinners where guests are welcomed by a warm atmosphere and charm. Featuring historic detail, modern amenities and an attentive staff makes for the perfect combination for memorable occasions. Offering catering for gatherings up to 100 with custom options to make each gathering one of a kind.

26 N. Meramec Avenue, Clayton, MO 63105 314-863-8400 www.SevenGablesInn.com

Guido’s Located in the heart of “The Hill,” Guido’s Pizzeria and Tapas offers a banquet room for your private event.

Our banquet room can accommodate up to 50 guests. We offer an intimate setting with hardwood floors and a beautiful fireplace. With such a diverse menu, Guido’s is sure to have a package that can be customized to fit your budget! Open 7 days a week.

Call us for details on our banquet space or the option to have a unique event with our NEW “wood fired cuisine” mobile oven. guidosstl.com 5046 Shaw 314-771-4900

Flamingo Bowl

“ON THE HILL”

Located in beautiful downtown St. Louis, Flamingo Bowl offers a unique rehearsal dinner / reception experience with grand views of Washington Avenue. This one of a kind setting offers upscale art-deco décor, a fun atmosphere, and an exceptional catering menu—sure to make your event unmatched. Our private rooms include cozy lounge areas, a pool table, and state of the art bowling lanes.

Many options are available to make the night uniquely yours.

For more information contact: Jessica at events@flamingobowl.com

Let Mamas host your SPECIAL event from the shower, rehearsal, or even reception! Mamas banquet facility can accommodate up to 100 guests providing them with a private bar, restroom, and entrance. Mamas will also cater a destination location for any size group. Looking for something unique, let us do a CULINARY CLASS or WINE DINNER for your event. Always something fun, fresh and exciting happening at Mamas!

1117 Washington Ave. St. Louis, MO 63101 314.436.6666 flamingobowl.com

Mama’s on the Hill

2132 Edwards “On The Hill” • 314-776-3100 • www.mamasonthehill.com

Though procuring a wedding license isn’t quite as complicated as the wedding itself, it helps to know the rules. Here they are: 1 All applicants in Missouri and Illinois must receive a license before the ceremony; Saint Louis Bride recommends a minimum of 24 hours. Blood tests are not required in either state.

2 A Missouri license is valid for thirty days from its effective date; an Illinois license for sixty days.

©MILA PHOTOS/SHUTTERSTOCK

3 Both bride and groom must apply in person. In Missouri, you may apply for a license at any office provided the wedding is to take place within the state. In Illinois, you must apply for and receive a license from the county in which the ceremony will take place.

CITY OF ST. LOUIS City Hall, 1200 Market Street, Room 127 Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: State ID/driver's license, proof of social security number if absent from license Phone: 314-622-3257 Fee: $48 (cash only) ST. LOUIS COUNTY St. Louis County Government Center 41 S. Central Avenue (4th floor), Clayton

Hours: Mon., Wed., Fri. 8a.m.-5p.m.; Tues. and Thu. 8a.m.-6p.m.

ID: State ID/driver's license, proof of social security number; if under 18, must be accompanied by custodial parent/legal guardian with guardianship papers ($1.00 fee), must present certified copy of birth certificate Phone: 314-615-7180 Fee: $45 (cash only)

Phone: 636-949-7505 Fee: $48 (cash only) JEFFERSON COUNTY Jefferson County Administration Center, Room 126, Maple Street (Hillsboro) Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: driver's license Phone: 636-797-5415 Fee: $51 (cash only)

FRANKLIN COUNTY Government Center 400 E. Locust, Room 102 (Union) Hours: 8a.m.- 4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: proof of social security number Phone: 636-583-6367 Fee: $46 (cash only)

ST. CLAIR COUNTY Illinois, County Clerk's Office 10 Public Square (Belleville) Hours: 8:30a.m.-4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 8:30a.m.12:00p.m. Sat. ID: two valid forms of ID (i.e. driver's license, social security card) Phone: 618-277-6600 x2388 Fee: $32 (cash, money order or local check)

ST. CHARLES COUNTY St. Charles County Admin. Building 201 N. 2nd Street, Room 338 Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: driver's license, proof of social security number if absent from license; if 15-17, must be accompanied by custodial parent ($1.00 fee), 18 and under must present certificate of birth as well

MADISON COUNTY Illinois, Administration Building 157 N. Main Street, Suite 109 (Edwardsville) Hours: 8:30a.m.-4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: State ID, driver's license Phone: 618-692-6290 Fee: $30 (cash only) ♥

Marketplace MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT Complete Weddings + Events North America’s solution for weddings + special event services. Offering a one stop shop for DJ, Photo, Video, MEGA Photo Booth and Up-Lighting to make your event a complete experience! Visit our new location at 11100 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141. https//completewedo.com/st-louis/ 314-991-5656 Millennium Productions Millennium Productions is one of the highest rated entertainment & DJ companies in St. Louis & the Midwest. Our award winning DJ services are recognized as innovative, creative and professional.

Keep it FUN! Our planning process is simple, easy and in person. We cover everything so you can enjoy your day. Our specialty is making your wedding day a one-of-akind celebration and an unforgettable party!

Contact us today for more information. www.millenniumproductions.com, 314.918.9335, 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood, MO 63144

TKO DJs TKO has been turning dreams into memories since 1984. While other DJ companies have come and gone, TKO remains the largest locally owned and operated entertainment provider in the St. Louis area. At TKO, our experienced team will help you personalize the perfect soundtrack to your day! Call, email or stop by our office today to find out about the TKO difference. www.tko-djs.com 314.647.3000

PHOTOGRAPHY Memories Are Forever Offers a mix of photojournalistic style images with traditional photography. www.memoriesareforever.com 1568 Ross Ave St. Louis, MO 63146 314-878-5657 (landline)

Spectrum Band.

Performing for more weddings in St. Louis than any band! 2020 award winner from TheKnot.com and WeddingWire.com. Inducted into The Knot Hall of Fame. Great website too!

201 Kendall Bluff Ct, Chesterfield MO 314-306-4313 www.spectrumband.net

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Mary & Brad December 31, 2019 The Wheel at St. Louis Union Station Photographed by Zach Dalin Photography

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