D Weddings Spring 2024

SPRING 2024

YOUR BEST LOCAL BRIDAL RESOURCE

see more from PORTER & ANDREW’S wedding on page 76

VOLUME 22 NUMBER 1

WWW.DWEDDINGS.COM

OH, HAPPY DAY

THIS WAY TO your DREAM WEDDING ➜ SPRING 2024

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Photo Credit: Emily Chappell Photography

DIRECTOR OF CATERING & CONFERENCE SERVICES PAULA FENNER WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Santa Fe, TX | WHAT YOU LOVE ABOUT THE ADOLPHUS: Our deep history and tradition with many North Texas Families | DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE WORKDAY: A great day with my Team and future Brides LOCAL RESTAURANT: Casa Millagro | BEST CUP OF COFFEE IN DALLAS: I’m a Diet Dr. Pepper Girl WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB? Grocery Cashier | WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU? My Parents | WEDDING TREND: Bringing Family Tradition into the Wedding WEDDING FAUX PAS: Anyone wearing White except for the Bride | FAVORITE CATERING STYLE: Cocktail Reception | PREWEDDING RITUAL: Walking the room, talking to the team and getting everyone excited to make dreams come true | FAVORITE WEDDING SONG: At Last | POST-WEDDING RITUAL: A nice glass of Pinot Noir and look at the pictures and celebrate the success of the night | FAVORITE WEDDING AND WHY? All Royal Weddings | ADVICE FOR BRIDES: Enjoy

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OWNER MARSHA FRENCH WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Sweetwater, Texas | WHAT YOU LOVE ABOUT WEDDINGS: The sheer joy of seeing family and friends creating memories and celebrating with the couple | DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE WORKDAY: Meetings with clients, with team mates, with new prospects, creating room designs, talking with other wedding professionals; all things wedding! | LOCAL RESTAURANT: Lavendou | BEST CUP OF COFFEE IN DALLAS: My morning coffee, made by my husband on our Expresso machine | WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB? Medical records clerk | WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU? Steven Spielberg and my children | WEDDING TREND: Providing special experiences for the guests | WEDDING FAUX PAS: Starting the ceremony late. | FAVORITE WEDDING STYLE: Classic with a contemporary twist | PRE-WEDDING RITUAL: Drink 8 0z of water and take an Iphoto shot of all my work papers | FAVORITE WEDDING SONG: Pachelbel’s Canon | POST-WEDDING RITUAL: Stop at Sonic for a larger cherry Dr. Pepper with lots of ice | FAVORITE WEDDING AND WHY? Every year I have favorites, they tend to be those that have surprises for the guests, great music for the ceremony and reception, yummy food and those that the couple has let me soar with special details! | ADVICE FOR BRIDES: Be in the moment with your new partner your family and your friends

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editorial editorial director JAMIE LAUBHAN-OLIVER executive editor JESSICA JONES OTTE associate editor LYDIA BROOKS copy editor JAMIE SIDES contributing editors SARAH BENNETT, RYAN CONNER, LAURA KOSTELNY, RHONDA REINHART editorial interns SAMANTHA CUIN, ELLEN DALY art creative director JAMIE LAUBHAN-OLIVER staff photographer ELIZABETH LAVIN production production director JOHN GAY production coordinator GRACE JOHN photo retoucher JASMINE GREEN website online editorial director MATT GOODMAN online managing editor ZOE ROBERTS senior digital editor BETHANY ERICKSON online dining editor NATALY KEOMOUNGKHOUN online associate editor CATHERINE WENDLANDT contributing photographer BRET REDMAN adver tising publisher NOELLE LEVEAUX sales manager RACHEL GILL account executive EMILY CHATHAM client operations managers OLIVIA BOOTH marketing marketing director MADELINE ALFORD marketing manager NATALIE SWAIM advertising art director KATIE GARZA events producer KEVIN MORGAN events coordinator NATASHA SANTIAGO marketing & events interns CLAIRE BLANCHARD, BREANNA FURROW, JORDAN RADASCH, DAISY ROSAS audience development coordinator EMMA BARRETTO editorial programs manager SARAH MASQUELIER RISI special programs coordinator BETTY BURNS retail strategy manager STEVE CRABB merchandiser DAVID TRUESDELL digital lead digital campaign manager/ad operations RILEY HILL digital ad operations coordinator JADE GARRETT digital design associate ANDREA CHAVEZ social media strategist MELISSA TALLO digital intern KARINA HERNANDEZ business controller SABRINA LATORRE senior accountant DEBBIE TRAVIS senior staff accountant RANDY RASOR accounts receivable coordinator JESSICA HERNANDEZ office manager WILL SMITH admin coordinator NIKHAEL VIRDEN IT admin JEFF NELSON IT technician LUAN ALIJI D Magazine Partners editor-in-chief & CEO CHRISTINE ALLISON president GILLEA ALLISON chief financial officer THOMAS L. EARNSHAW

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V O L U M E 2 2 N U M B E R 1 Spring/Summer 2024 COPYRIGHT 2023 D MAGAZINE PARTNERS, L.P. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

We love the earth. And we want you to show your love. So recycle this magazine and any other magazine from the D family that you buy. Because it’s one thing to read about going green.

It’s another thing to, you know, go there.

WE ARE CERTIFIED AS A WOMEN - OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

BY THE WOMEN 'S BUSINESS C O U N C I L S O U T H W E S T.

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Table of

CONTENTS

39 61 95 SUMMER 2024

SPRING 2024

YOUR BEST LOCAL BRIDAL RESOURCE

i will

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO PLAN THE DAY OF YOUR DR EAMS. GET YOUR BRIDAL JEWELRY ETIQUETTE UP TO SNUFF, LEARN WHAT GOES INTO FLORAL COSTS SO YOU CAN SPEND WISELY, AND DISCOVER THE BEST NEW SPOTS FOR PREWEDDING WELLNESS. PLUS: EXPLORE THE SOUTHERN TREND THAT ’S SHOWING UP EVERYWHERE IN WEDDING DESIGN, FROM GOWNS TO DECOR AND FOOD.

i do

LET’S GET YOU READY TO WALK DOWN THE AISLE! NEED INSPIRATION FOR YOUR BIG DAY? TWELVE REAL COUPLES SHARE THE SMART DECISIONS AND PERSONAL DETAILS THAT HELPED MAKE THEIR WEDDING DAYS MEMORABLE. PLUS: GET A LOOK INSIDE THE STUNNING CELEBRATION OF OUR 20TH-ANNIVERSARY DREAM DAY GIVEAWAY WINNERS!

we did

YOU SAID “I DO”—NOW WHAT TO DO? AS YOU PORE OVER YOUR WEDDING PHOTOS, YOU MAY FIND A FEW (PLEASANT) SURPRISES. SEE THE CAPTURED MOMENTS THAT MADE FIVE COUPLES’ BIG DAYS EVEN SWEETER. LEARN WHICH REGISTRY ITEMS TO KEEP AND WHICH TO DITCH. PLUS: MEET A LOCAL GOWN-RECONSTRUCTION EXPERT WHO CAN TURN YOUR DRESS INTO SOMETHING YOU CAN ENJOY AGAIN.

YOUR BEST LOCAL BRIDAL RESOURCE

Get Inspiration from

Real Weddings

see more from PORTER & ANDREW’S wedding on page 76

THIS WAY TO your DREAM WEDDING ➜

CELEBRATE VOLUME 22 NUMBER 1

VOLUME 22 NUMBER 1

32

OH, HAPPY DAY

READY, SET,

FRESH IDEAS AND EXPERT ADVICE for A WEDDING TO REMEMBER

see more from R O S I E & G EO F F ’ S wedding on page 62

D W ED D I N GS Spring/Summer 2024

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ON THE COVER: (left) photography: Shannon Skloss Photography; (right) photography: Stephanie Brazzle Photography

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refined

Elegance

Members and nonmembers are invited to book. Contact us to bring your wedding dreams to life.

972.867.6666 | gleneaglesclub.com 5401 West Park Boulevard Plano, TX 75093 Some restrictions and exclusions may apply. Contact Club for details. © ClubCorp USA, Inc. All rights reserved. 2021-33604-90268

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Let ter from the

E D I TO R I A L D I R E C TO R

Your Dream Day

LUXURY WEDDING FLOWERS sagefinedesign.com | 972 . 768.9673

When it comes to planning the beginning of your future, sometimes your roots are the best place to start. With the bombardment of wedding ideas and images you’ve surely gotten from friends, social media, and celebrity culture, it’s easy to fall prey to whatever trends are hot at the moment you get married. A coworker of mine was lamenting recently about having gotten married in a beautiful string-lit barn at the beginning of the rustic-chic movement—despite the fact that she’d never stepped foot on a farm prior to that day.

That’s part of the reason we’ve loved seeing the rise in personalization in weddings—including elements that mean something to you and your soonto-be spouse, not to the influencer you saw on TikTok. For some, that’s meant including nods to their favorite film, incorporating a rainbow of their favorite shades, or bringing in touches inspired by beloved hobbies.

For me, that was making my wedding feel like home. I’m a Texas girl through and through, so my wedding reflected that. That’s why my heart fluttered a little at the sound of sweet potato wedding cake and fried green tomato appetizers as we were planning this issue. We feature those and a whole host of other Southern wedding ideas in our “Southern Charm” story (starting on pg. 47), from gowns and

accessories to rentals and, yes, food!

Comfort foods and familiar flavors can certainly add nostalgia that you—and your guests—will love. Take a look at our ideas for serving a slice of traditional down-home cake and setting a classic Southern table. Let’s just say Grandma will be proud. (She may even let your borrow her punch bowl.)

Whatever direction you go in, when it comes down to it, following your gut— and the advice of a good team—can guide you through the wedding-planning process. In this issue, you’ll see and hear how 12 couples made their dream days come true with the help of their vendors. The winners of our 20th anniversary Dream Day Giveaway— who scored a wedding, courtesy of D Weddings and an all-star team of local pros—are among them.

Seeking advice from those with experience is often the best place to start for most things, your registry included. On pages 98–99, we polled past brides to find out which wedding gifts you should keep and which you might want to reconsider. It may not be the items you think. (Fun fact: The only gift I still have from my wedding 18 years ago is my toaster.)

Remember, through all the noise of wedding planning, your goal should always be to create a day that’s joyfully, authentically you. That’s something you’ll never regret.

JAMIE LAUBHAN-OLIVER jamie@dmagazine.com

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THE PREMIER CATERING COMPANY OF

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

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FROM OUR HEART TO YOURS Heart to Heart.indd 1

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Let ter from the

PUBLISHER

Dear friends,

NOELLE LEVEAUX PUBLISHER noelle.leveaux@dmagazine.com

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If you still need ideas, check out the Southern-influenced wedding trends featured on pages. 47–58. From cakes and rentals to aisle style, we’ve got all your beautiful bases covered.

And as always at D Weddings, we bring you real stories from real people who’ve been through it. We’re sharing insight from past brides on registry items they love and loathe, and a newlywed couple reflect on the lessons (good and not so good) they learned on their way to the altar.

As fun as planning a wedding was last year, it was also hard work! We salute the vendors and venues who have committed to ensuring Dallas brides have the celebrations of their dreams. You’ll find them in the pages of our print version, online at dweddings. com, and on our Instagram (@dweddings). Here’s to another 20 years of bringing you the best wedding experts in town!

K IM L EES O N

Last year, we celebrated D Weddings’ 20th anniversary by giving away a wedding. It was, admittedly, a crazy idea—but I knew our team, and our incredible partners, were up for the challenge. In this issue, I am so excited for you to see the culmination of the blood, sweat, and tears that went into our Dream Day Giveaway. Our deserving winners, Macy and Ethan, were gracious throughout the entire process, and their special day (seen on pgs. 66–69) was more than they—or we—could have imagined. We could not have pulled it off without so many wonderful partners joining together to make all of their dreams come true.

But that’s not all. We’ve got 11 other real weddings in this issue to amaze and inspire you. We even feature two drastically different celebrations that took place at the same venue, showing how your unique touches and tastes can be reflected in your big day.

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Get Connected

MARQUEE EVENT RENTALS marqueerents.com | info@marqueerents.com | 972.381.8000 |

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E V E R Y T H I N G Y O U N E E D T O P L A N A N D P R E P B E F O R E T H E B I G D AY

b et te r to get h e r No one could deny that thenUniversity of North Texas students D’marosay McAfee and Gersom Adu had chemistry together. Chemistry class, that is. “Unbeknownst to me, we had been in the same chemistry class,” says D’marosay. “Somehow, Gersom was able to get my information and contacted me one day after school.” They quickly became inseparable, and a few years later, engaged.

The American-born D’marosay and Ghanaian-born Gersom were intentional about their looks for their dual-location engagement session. The first shoot, at the Dallas Arboretum (pictured), featured their “breezy American look.” Their second look, shot in studio, incorporated ensembles made from Ghanaian kente cloth, while a third blended Western outfits and Ghanaian jewelry. “I wanted our engagement shoot to honor our roots separately and showcase a fusion of both cultures together,” says D’marosay.

—Lydia Brooks P H O T O G R A P H Y: Sarah Kate Photography

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ETIQUETTE

Q: Is it still common practice to ask for a father’s permission before proposing?

A: “Asking for a father’s permission before proposing is a practice that still holds significance for many people. While it may not be a strict requirement, it’s widely considered a gesture of courtesy. In my opinion, honoring the father’s role in a traditional sense by asking for permission is a thoughtful and respectful tradition.”

—Fallon Bock, vice president/buyer for Bachendorf’s

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All Things Ring

by J e s s i c a O t t e

Diamonds are forever … right? What if you don’t love the one you got? Broaching sensitive topics about your engagement ring or an heirloom piece with your fiancé or family members can be a tricky endeavor. We asked experts at three top Dallas jewelers for their takes on how to handle potentially sticky situations and which long-standing traditions may no longer be so tried-and-true.

Q: How would you advise a bride who doesn’t like the heirloom stone or ring that her family has given her to use as an engagement ring?

A: “Many brides are gifted heirloom rings that, while beautiful, don’t fit their current style. Fortunately, there are a variety of options to consider when gifted an heirloom engagement ring. If a bride likes the stone in the ring, this provides a perfect opportunity to reset the stone in a customdesigned or pre-made setting. When the bride and her future husband choose the new setting together, they can select a ring that has special meaning to them while also keeping the heritage from the bride’s family.

If the gifted stone is not something a bride wants to reimagine, she might consider using it for a pendant or another piece of jewelry as a way to honor its past while allowing her and her fiancé to choose a new ring that best represents their love together.” —Cristina Salas, director of marketing and branding for Eiseman Jewels

Q: If a bride-to-be doesn’t love her engagement ring, how should she discuss that with her fiancé, and what options does she have to alter it?

A: “This is a tough conversation to have, but sometimes there are elements that are hard to get past that you want to address to make it your dream ring.

The element the bride wants to alter dictates the difficulty to make it happen—some are hard, and others are simple fixes. Of course, the simplest way to get exactly what you want is to be upfront with your partner before a purchase is made. We rarely see a full ‘surprise’ engagement anymore!

Typically, the bride is involved in an initial appointment to narrow in on stone shape and designs. This allows us to ask questions that the groom may not know are important to ask and help narrow in on all the little details that go into her perfect ring.”

—Kiley Trent, managing director for Matthew Trent Q: Is a wedding band still customary, or are you seeing more couples do away with it?

A: “The wedding band style truly depends on the couple. At Eiseman, many couples still gravitate towards traditional wedding bands; however we are also seeing a trend of stacking bands, multishaped cut diamonds or stone bands, and even larger-scale bands with no engagement ring. Adding colored stones to your band is a fun way to brighten up the wedding stack as well!” —Cristina Salas, director of marketing and branding for Eiseman Jewels

Q: If a bride wishes to upgrade her ring down the line, do you allow couples to trade in their stone for a larger one?

A: “At Bachendorf’s, we stand firmly behind the quality of our jewelry and are always happy to assist clients who wish to upgrade their rings. We evaluate their current stone and offer a fair market price.

Our confidence in this process is rooted in our meticulous standards, with many diamonds having been personally inspected by Lawrence or Harry Bock before becoming a part of our collection. We are dedicated to helping clients find the perfect piece that aligns with their evolving tastes and preferences.” —Fallon Bock, vice president/ buyer for Bachendorf’s Q: There are lots of after-wedding opportunities for which jewelry is an appropriate gift. How can someone make clear to their spouse what they would like, and do you help facilitate that for couples?

A: “We see the engagement ring and wedding band as the start of a lifelong relationship with clients. Usually when we work with clients on the engagement ring and wedding band, there are subtle hints of gift ideas mentioned that we make note of for future events—like an anniversary band, matching earrings, etc.

Our customer profile shows finger size, metal preferences, and we even keep a wish list on file for future events.

Most spouses like having a list of things that their significant other might like for gifts down the road.” —Kiley Trent, managing director for Matthew Trent

1 Platinum 4.55 ct pear-shaped diamond ring ($87,500/Matthew Trent) 2 Platinum signature 2.42 ct round diamond ring with diamonds around head and down shank ($55,200/Matthew Trent) 3 18k white gold marquise diamond and emerald-cut emerald ring ($7,700/Eiseman Jewels) 4 Platinum 3.15 ct emerald-cut diamond halo ring ($22,000/Bachendorf’s) 5 Platinum 2.76 ct diamond band ($10,000/Bachendorf’s) 6 Norman Silverman platinum and 18k yellow gold yellow and white diamond ring ($75,000/Bachendorf’s) 7 Norman Silverman platinum emerald-cut 10.31 ct diamond eternity band ($72,000/Bachendorf’s) 8 18k white gold three-row diamond eternity band ($31,000/Eiseman Jewels) 9 Platinum 4.02 ct cushion-cut diamond ring ($124,000/Eiseman Jewels)

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ICONIC

An enchanting stage for memories of a lifetime From intimate exchanges to grand affairs, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek offers uncompromising service, warm Southern hospitality and culinary artistry in a variety of elegant venues.To plan your celebration, contact our wedding experts at + 1 214 520 5824 or themansion@rosewoodhotels.com.

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Flower Figures

Toss your bouquet (not your money away) by spending wisely on florals.

by J e s s i c a O t t e

One Bride, Two Budgets Flowers are an integral part of any wedding design, bringing lushness and life to spaces that might otherwise be cold or cavernous. But whatever their budget, many couples confess to not knowing what to expect when it comes to the price of florals. Going into your appointments informed can help you make smart decisions about where to splurge and where to scale back.

And lest you think half the blooms equal half the price, think again—there are a great deal of other factors that go into the cost of your weddingday arrangements. Adri Smith, owner of Fort Worth–based Moss Floral Designs, created two bouquets of a similar style with two different price tags and breaks down the differences.

Size Matters

F LO R A L

California Love

Adri incorporated California-grown specialty roses into this bouquet for the “garden feel” they bring.

But such specialty blooms add to the bottom line, as they have to be shipped in from out of state. “Almost all of these specialty rose farms are in California,” Adri says.

The dainty blooms used in this bouquet are costlyvnot only because their small size requires more of them but also because they are hyperseasonal, meaning they have an especially short window of availability.

They’re worth it, assures Adri: “They have a great impact and add movement to your arrangement.”

1

BUDGET

$500

Quality and Quantity

This bouquet boasts a whopping 50 stems to the less expensive bouquet’s 40—but Adri assures that simple numbers alone don’t command a higher price point. “It depends on the type of flowers you have,” she says. “There are inexpensive flowers—flowers that can be locally sourced from your neighborhood wholesaler—and expensive flowers that have to be shipped in from growers in other parts of the U.S. or flower farms.”

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A Rose by Any Other Name

Standard roses are the stars of this bouquet. Adri used Barista roses, which she loves for their tonal color, and offers a hint for how to give them more oomph: “You can reflex the petals to open the bloom and make them larger and highlight them more.”

Shop Local

Staying close to home when sourcing stems can drastically cut down on price. “This bouquet doesn’t have any California garden roses,” Adri points out.

Instead, all of the flowers in this arrangement came from local growers—an easy way to maintain a budget without reducing size or denseness of arrangements.

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Scaling Back

Though Adri used the same Blushing Parasol garden spray roses in the higher-priced option, she cut back on the quantity of these higher-value blooms in this one to save on cost. “I only used two to three in this bouquet but around six to seven in the other,” she says. She filled in with less costly (and still lovely!) scabiosa.

Wrap It Up

Rather than splurge on several feet’s worth of trailing ribbon, budget-conscious brides can opt for a simple traditional wrap. Since the ribbon won’t be visible while you’re holding the bouquet, you could go with a less expensive ribbon. But since you only need three to four inches (instead of several feet), Adri says, “Typically we still wrap the bouquet in the nicer ribbon.”

$300

The Long Game

Trailing raw silk ribbon was added to this bouquet, which affects the total price tag. Though optional, the impact it imparts on the final look is undeniable.

“Trailing ribbon adds movement, a romantic feel, and color to the overall bouquet,” says Adri.

Though there are many choices of ribbon, Adri says it’s worth it to splurge on the good stuff. “Inexpensive ribbon definitely doesn’t give the same effect as raw silk or chiffon,” she says, adding that, regardless of what you choose, “It should pair with your gown—not take away from it.”

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Floral 411 Love this look? Here’s a key to the blooms Adri used in each bouquet.

(Hint: Bring this guide to your floral appointments for easy reference!)

BUDGET 1

BUDGET 2

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chocolate cosmos

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Butterfly ranunculus

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deep brown lisianthus

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Barista roses

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peach spray roses

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Blush scabiosa

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Blushing Parasol

• jasmine vine

garden spray roses

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garden spray roses

Distant Drums roses

Blushing Parasol

• Barista roses •

Blushing Bride protea

• Honey Dijon roses •

Koko Loko roses

Spring/Summer 2024 D W ED D I N GS

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WELLNESS

Fresh Faces

With everything you’ve got to accomplish in the months leading up to your wedding, remembering to make time for your beauty and wellness regimens can be a tall order.

Fortunately, Dallas has no shortage of places that can help you reach your goals quickly and safely. Check out these five newcomers to the local skin-care lineup—and one great way to relieve wedding-planning stress.

Skin Laundry

Membership has its privileges at Skin Laundry, one of the most recent entrants to the Dallas skin-care scene. Don’t expect every service under the sun; facials are the sole focus here— for good reason. “Skin Laundry was founded on the belief that everyone deserves healthy, radiant skin,” says Mina Chun, BSN, RN, director of clinical development for the Los Angeles–based company. “We deliver on this belief by doing one thing really well.” Not only are all services performed by licensed medical professionals, they’re fast—most are 30 minutes or less—and the results are, too. Their popular Signature Laser Facial effectively targets acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation with zero downtime. Though you can purchase a one-off treatment, you’ll score reduced prices if you’re willing to make a monthly commitment. They offer several tiers to suit your budget. Multiple locations. skinlaundry.com

Ever/Body

There’s something for everyone at Ever/Body. New to Texas, the New York–based cosmeticdermatology brand offers a plethora of treatments—from injectables and peels to body sculpting—to address a range of concerns. New clients begin with a consultation, in which the extensively trained staff aims to demystify and customize cosmetic dermatology to meet your unique needs, on your timeline—whether you’re prepping for your wedding events or looking for long-term results.

“We sit down with brides and ask, ‘What would you like to see?’ or, ‘What do you love and want to highlight?’ ” says Dionne Fawcett, center manager for the Preston Hollow location. “Then we talk to them about their timeline—not just the wedding but pictures, showers—and work backwards.” Multiple locations. everbody.com

Alchemy 43

Alchemy 43 founder Nicci Levy’s philosophy is: The best work goes unnoticed. And with the med spa’s new location in Lakewood, brides can see her complete range of “microtreaments” in action through a customized service plan—which could include Nicci’s personal pre-event favorite, the Radically Radiant microneedling treatment—that works to enhance your natural beauty. “No two beautiful faces are the same,” she says. “We will work with you months in advance to schedule in your regimen leading up to the wedding so you can look and feel your absolute best on the big day.” 6465 E. Mockingbird Ln., Ste. 420. 214-937-4543. alchemy43.com

SkinSpirit

With locations in the West Village, Preston Royal, and beyond, SkinSpirit offers the best in pre-wedding treatments. Their signature skin-care duo, which couples dermaplaning with a DiamondGlow facial, packs a double punch of exfoliation and hydration to ensure dewy, plumped skin on the big day.

“Everyone wants that smooth, effortless makeup look on their wedding day,” says SkinSpirit aesthetician Jessica StrubhartYaklin. “To achieve that, those treatments paired together will give you the perfect glowy base needed.” SkinSpirit also offers a Broadband Light (BBL) treatment that utilizes a specialized laser to counteract skin imperfections and pigmentation issues—completing the perfect pre-wedding prep trifecta. Multiple locations. skinspirit.com

Heyday

Sometimes you just need a quick fix or—when wedding stress reaches its peak—some impromptu self-care. Facial and skin-care shop Heyday is there for you whenever you’re in need of a glow-up—no appointment necessary. (Advance bookings are welcome if you’re too type A for such spontaneity.) The menu is limited to their signature 50-minute facial, but once you meet with your aesthetician, your session is customized to your needs. Got dry spots, blackheads, or fine lines? The experts here will determine the best products and techniques for your particular skin-care goals.

And if you're in need of a little extra pampering, they also offer facial enhancements, such as LED light therapy, microdermabrasion, professional peels, and gua sha massages. Multiple locations. heydayskincare.com

Eight Hands Are Better Than Two

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L AN C E T R AC HIER

Walking down the aisle is no walk in the park. If you need to supercharge your pre-wedding relaxation regimen, head to The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas Spa, where you can indulge in their Texas Eight-Hand Massage. It is exactly what it sounds like: four massage therapists working on you simultaneously. We tried it out recently, and though we were nervous—as people who admittedly don’t love being touched—that such an experience would be overwhelming, the masseuses’ ability to synchronize their movements somehow resulted in one collective sensation, and any jitters we felt quickly melted away. Modest types should take note that with four areas of your body being simultaneously tended to, you’re a little less covered up than during a standard massage. But after the hour’s up, you’re also a lot more relaxed.

DWEDDINGS.COM

11/21/23 9:57 AM

YOUR CELEBRATION, ORCHESTRATED TO PERFECTION. Connect with those who matter most at our elegant Arts District hotel. Inspired by the simple beauty of the natural world, our hotel is created to stimulate memorable experiences crafted by inspiring design, authenticity, and a humble approach to luxury.

Make the most of each beautiful moment together at Dallas’ new address for luxury.

JW Marriott® Dallas Arts District 800 N Harwood St., Dallas, TX 75201 jwmarriottdallasartsdistrict.com | 214.347.9499

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happily ever after begins at

HOTEL CRESCENT COURT

RESERVATIONS & INQUIRIES CALL 214.871.3211 SALES@CRESCENTCOURT.COM @MYCRESCENTWEDDING

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ON TREND

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1 Judith Leiber pearly sphere minaudière ($3,495/The Conservatory) 2 wicker “Capri” placemat ($9 rental/ BBJ La Tavola) 3 scalloped plate ($185/Ellis Hill) 4 “Daisy” plate (from $140/Ellis Hill) 5 Bitossi “Sage Floral” plate (from $12/Blue Print) 6 green flatware ($140 for five-piece set/Ellis Hill) 7 “Spring Garden” napkin ($24/ Blue Print) 8 velvet pearl bow napkin rings ($115 for set of four/ Lele Sadoughi) 9 ATOSII “Meraki” green tablecloth ($52/ Amazon.com)

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BOW DOWN

We’re fit to be tied over these bow napkin rings from Lele Sadoughi’s new home collection!

EL IZ AB E T H L AV IN

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SOUTHERN CHARM The latest trend in weddings is straight from the South.

Southerners are known for a lot of things, but subtlety isn’t one of them.

The design? Layered! The food? Rich! The drinks? Strong! When it comes to weddings, all those ingredients add up to a really beautiful—and really fun—party. So it’s no wonder more brides and grooms are looking south for inspiration. If your compass is pointed the same direction, we’ve rounded up the best Southern-inspired food, decor, style, and more!

Turn the page for more, y’all!

>>

Spring/Summer 2024 D W ED D I N GS

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ON TREND

DETAILS FOR DAYS

Brown-Butter Coffee Cake Have & Hold Studio haveandholdstudio.com

“Overpiping” is back! Ruthi Hutson Cakes put an extraSouthern spin on this design with a twist on a much-used expression.

Bourbon Red Velvet Dallas Affaires Cake Co. dallasaffairescakeco.com

Cake Walk

When it comes to wedding confections, these favorite Southern flavors truly take the cake.

by Lyd i a B ro o k s

Sweet Potato Loft22 Cakes loft22cakes.com Hummingbird Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery sugarbeesweets.com Strawberries and Cream Panini Bakery paninicakes.com FROM TOP: BUFFALO CHECK TABLE LINEN (FROM $66 TO RENT/ BBJ LA TAVOLA); YELLOW FLATWARE ($120 FOR SET OF FIVE/ ELLIS HILL); “ATHENA CAPRI” NAPKIN RING ($4 TO RENT/ BBJ LA TAVOLA)

Lemon Raspberry Unrefined Bakery unrefinedbakery.com Berry Amaretto Ruthi Hutson Cakes ruthihutsoncakes.com

Any Way You Slice It

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PHILIPPE DESHOULIERES “PHARAON” DINNER PLATE ($100/ THE IVY HOUSE)

1 Waterford cake/pie server ($175/The Ivy House) 2 “Damas” cake server ($436/Blue Print) 3 white and gold cake serving set ($60/Blue Print) 4 woven cake knife ($28/Blue Print)

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EL IZ AB E T H L AV IN

While we don’t condone the smashing of icing into your significant other’s face, we do love a good cake shot—and there’s an art to catching the right angle. Make sure you both have hands on the cake knife, and use your matching server to plate. (Pro tip: Inserting the knife vertically rather than at a 90-degree angle will give you a crumb-free slice.) Linking arms, stop midair, just before you take a bite, to allow your photographer to capture the moment. Toast with champagne, and voila!

DWEDDINGS.COM

11/21/23 10:01 AM

205 North Akard Street | Dallas, Texas | thompsondallas.com | @thompsonhoteldallas

@ th o m p s o n d a l l a swe d d i n gs · 4 6 9 . 7 2 6 . 4 1 0 7

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ON TREND

From left: Royal Crown Derby “Elizabeth” china (from $175/The Ivy House); custom bouquet (price upon request/Max Owens Design); “Drayton” stripe table linen (from $66/BBJ La Tavola)

Garden Glory

Make sure your wedding flowers are headed in the right direction with these tips from local florists on how to strike a Southern chord.

Five Blooms To Use Branching Out Events floral lead Eduardo Lua reveals the flowers that will make any arrangement feel instantly Southern.

by J e s s i c a O t t e

BEST BUDS

We love details that do double duty, like these escort cards that doubled as party favors for guests!

❤ Keep It Clean When it comes to bouquet shape, Maxine says to err on the side of structured versus loose, lush, and wild.

“Southern brides tend to prefer something tailored, classic, and timeless, with more of a round shape than an asymmetrical or garden-style arrangement,” she says. ❤ A Classic Color Palette ”Southern brides often reflect Southern values of tradition and meaning,” says Maxine.

“Nothing is more classic than a white bridal bouquet, clean and crisp, with white flowers representing eternal love, innocence, and new beginnings.” She asserts that you needn’t match your bouquet to the rest of your florals, if you’d prefer to go bold in your ceremony arrangements

and centerpieces. “A white bouquet can fit within any palette.”

❤ Prime Picks Maxine tends to reach for romantic, petal-packed flowers with frilly edges and soft movement rather than overly rigid or structured stems. In the arrangement above, she used nerines and tweedias to provide differentiation between the peonies, garden roses, and ranunculus.

But there’s one classically Southern staple of which she steers clear. “Arguably the most quintessential Southern tree is the magnolia,” she says. “While their easily recognized copper and dark green leaves are hearty, their beautiful white blooms bruise and brown easily, making them a poor bouquet choice.”

Lauren Piot and Austin DeLaRosa March 4, 2023

Plant Your Seat If floral archways, elaborate table arrangements, and a hanging display over the dance floor weren’t enough, guests at Lauren Piot and Austin DeLaRosa’s Arlington Hall reception were treated to even more flower power in the form of this escort card display, created by Bella Flora and Fabulous Fete.

Gardenia “The gardenia gives us that desired Texas countryside aroma. It’s a classic.”

Queen Anne’s lace “A beautiful yet delicate flower.

Great for movement and texture.”

Muscari “Small but sophisticated, with a beautiful blue color that reminds us of bluebonnets.”

B O UQUE T: EL IZ A B E T H L AV IN; PIOT- D EL AR OSA : JO HN CA IN PH OTO G R APH Y

When it comes to creating a bouquet suitable for a Southern belle, Dallas-raised florist Maxine Owens of Max Owens Design says there’s no onesize-fits-all approach.

“There is no one type of Southern woman, which is what makes us uniquely fabulous!” she says. “We are fun yet sophisticated, classic yet eclectic, and always make a statement.”

But if your wedding is leaning largely south, Maxine shares a few ways to make your personal flowers feel in step with the rest of your scheme.

Toffee rose “It has a rich color reminiscent of the warmth of Texas and goes well with other Southernstyle flowers.”

Three keys to achieving a pretty Southern posy.

>>

Gathered Together

Magnolia leaf “Magnolia grows in abundance in the South, making it a good classic option.”

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Our Food is a

CHEF OWNED

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AWARD WINNING

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P R E F E R R E D C AT E R E R AT TO P DA L L A S FO RT H WO RT H V E N U E S

Work of Art CALL TO DAY FO R YO U R C U STO M E V E NT P RO P O SA L: 9 7 2 . 74 4 . 0 6 6 0 4 2 4 1 S I G M A R O A D, S U I T E A , D A L L A S , T E X A S 7 5 2 4 4 | C U L I N A RYA RT C AT E R I N G .C O M

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Higher the Hair

ON TREND

Purse Strings

CLUTCH YOUR PEARLS

There’s nothing a Southern belle loves more than a lustrous detail.

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<

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From left: La Pima “Marie” sunglasses ($535/ Grange Hall); Alaïa “Mina” bag ($1,650/ The Conservatory); Zhuu pearl bag ($175/Elements)

Clockwise from top: “Betty” hair clip ($250/Patsy’s Bridal); “Penelope” hair bow ($80/Patsy’s Bridal); “Mediterranean” tiara ($475/Patsy’s Bridal); Gabrielle Jewelry “Mason” hairpiece ($1,100/Lela Rose); silk magnolia brooch ($75/Lele Sadoughi)

MONIQUE LHUILLIER

1

These four elements separate the everyday dresses from the Southern showstoppers.

3 ❤ Statement Sleeves The bigger, fluffier, and more over-the-top, the better.

2 ❤ Lace Details Bonus points if it’s hand-embroidered.

4 ❤ Cold Shoulders Subtle yet sexy.

WATTERS

1 ❤ Floral Appliques Think dogwoods, climbing roses, and magnolias.

Dress to the Nines

Any good Southern gal knows how to put together a memorable look.

Let these statement-making gowns and eye-catching accessories inspire your own day-of ensemble.

by Lyd i a B ro o k s

< High (Heel) Society From left: “Signature Slipper” ($595/ Hadleigh’s); Malone Souliers “Maureen” mule ($795/Tootsies); Alaïa heart mules ($1,170/The Conservatory); Bruno Frisoni “Pointy Tonic” slingback heel ($1,030/The Conservatory)

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

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All Gussied Up

From left: Iradj Moini bug brooch ($2,065/Grange Hall); Deepa Gurnani earrings ($450/Elements); Melanie Georgacopoulos earrings ($5,360/Grange Hall); Nicola Bathie earrings ($350/Elements)

<

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G OW NS: CO UR T ESY; AL L OT HER S: EL IZ AB E T H L AV IN

NARDOS DESIGN

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Southern Staples

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ON TREND

Mini Shrimp and Grit Cakes with Roasted Poblano Peppers Culinary Art Catering culinaryartcatering.com

In Good Taste Take a modern and delicious spin on classic Southern fare with bite-size servings from local caterers.

NOT YOUR GRANDMA’S PUNCH “Bustamante Punch” combines tequila reposado, blood oranges, and dried rose petals.

“Bustamante Punch” Mama’s Medicine mamasmedicine.com

by Lyd i a B ro o k s

Chicken and Waffle Bites with Maple Glaze Ferah Catering & Events ferahcatering.com

EL IZ AB E T H L AV IN

Tomato and Pimento-Cheese Tartlets Knife and Faulk knifeandfaulk.com

Fried Green Tomatoes with Jalapeño-Pecan Jam Blue Fire Catering bluefirecatering.com

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11/20/23 2:08 PM

Dream weddings are made of this.

You’ve waited for this special day forever. And whether you dreamed of an intimate ceremony or a reception for hundreds, you always knew your wedding would embody elegance, luxury and romance. Your wait is almost over. Your happily ever a er is just beginning.

TO SCHEDULE A TOUR CONTACT OUR WEDDING SPECIALISTS CALL

| EAUPALMBEACH COM/WEDDINGS

SOUTH OCEAN BLVD MANALAPAN FL

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EAUMOMENTS | @EAUPALMBEACH_EVENTS

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SIT A SPELL ON TREND

Warm Welcome

5

From china and checked linens to fringe and frills, Southern style can be yours—if just for a night— with these rentals.

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“ASHLEIGH” PLATES TOP TIER EVENT RENTALS

Nothing makes a reception more inviting than cozy touches of home.

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6 “ELEANOR” CHAIR PERCH EVENT DECOR

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SPINDLE CHAIR POSH COUTURE RENTALS

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ACRYLIC SCALLOPED CHARGER POSH COUTURE RENTALS

LATTICE BAR SHELVES PARTY! DALLAS

GINORI “ORIENTE ITALIANO” PLATE POSH COUTURE RENTALS

“CHELSEA” SCALLOPED PLATE POSH COUTURE RENTALS

“CHARLESTON” ADIRONDACK CHAIR PARTY! DALLAS

DUSTY PINK GLASSWARE BELLA ACENTO

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“NORMANDY” CHAIR PARTY! DALLAS

EL IZ AB E T H L AV IN

1 “Lilibet” sofa ($441/Loot Rentals) 2 beaded placemat ($9/BBJ La Tavola) 3 watercolor blush plates (price upon request/Marquee Event Rentals) 4 “Essex” napkin ($4/ BBJ La Tavola) 5 tan gingham lumbar pillow ($12/Loot Rentals) 6 quilted floral Kantha pillow ($15/Loot Rentals) 7 “Vanessa” platinum rim dinner plate (price upon request/Marquee Event Rentals) 8 hemstitch napkin ($5/BBJ La Tavola) 9 “Tabitha” salad plate (price upon request/Marquee Event Rentals) 10 wicker “Capri” placemat ($9/BBJ La Tavola) 11 “Allegra” natural placemat ($9/ BBJ La Tavola) *All listed prices are rental prices.

“CAICOS” BEACH UMBRELLA LOOT RENTALS

ETCHED GLASS PLATE BELLA ACENTO DWEDDINGS.COM

11/20/23 10:50 AM

Photo Courtesy: Mary Talamantes Photography

A PERFECT PARTNERSHIP At The Westin Dallas Downtown, we’re committed to bringing your vision of your perfect wedding day to life flawlessly. We take the time to understand your unique needs so that we can delight you with intuitive service, thoughtful touches and enriching experiences, allowing you to enjoy each moment to the fullest. Vow to Get Away and you can earn up to Triple Marriott Bonvoy Points for weddings and wedding related events booked by December 31, 2023. Our wedding team is eager to help you bring your dreams of a memorable wedding to life at our Downtown Dallas Hotel.

To begin planning your Westin Wedding call 972.584.6650 or email daldwsales@marriott.com

1201 Main Street, Dallas, TX 75201 www.westindallasdowntown.com

©2021 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All names, marks and logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.

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>>

Totally Trellised

Ashley Proctor and Noah Brown June 3, 2023

ON TREND

Ashley Proctor and Noah Brown celebrated their union with a garden-partyinspired reception, complete with a latticework escortcard display, the pattern of which was echoed on their cake. “We wanted a classic look with a Southern twist,” says the bride, who looked to planner Ashlee Nicholson, stationer Paper Planet, florist Blooms by Brookie, and baker Bronwen Cakes to make the magic happen.

>>

Southern Hospitality

Ashley Proctor and Noah Brown June 3, 2023

Dinner at Ashley and Noah’s reception was served on mismatched china, giving the tablescapes a collected, unpretentious, at-home feel.

Maddy Coffman and Benjamin Westwick April 16, 2023

“I Do” Declare!

Prints of Pop

We love these downright down-home touches from real local weddings.

Nothing says Southern like a good floral fabric. With the help of planner Chloe Allday, Emily Church and Brendan Keegan brought a touch of sunny style to their Arts District Mansion reception.

“Golden hour is my favorite time of day, so I wanted to bring in warm golden yellow tones,” Emily says. “The patterned linens did just that.”

The trellised gate at Christiana Josephakis’ Dallas family home— where she wed Colin Petitt—served as the ideal inspiration for their invitations. “I thought it was such a wonderful way for guests to get a feel for what the wedding would feel like,” says Betty Tran Jameson of Scribbles and Swirls.

Like the ruffled gowns favored by many a Southern bride, overpiped cakes—also known as Lambeth cakes— are once again all the rage. Rachel Polley of Blondie’s Bake House created this one for Maddy Coffman and Benjamin Westwick.

Emily Church and Brendan Keegan May 6, 2023

Christiana Josephakis and Colin Petitt October 22, 2022

Laura Cisper and Max Kurzban May 6, 2023

Throw Some Shade

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Icing on the Cake

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Picket Perfect

Before she said “I do” er’s grounds. In addition to groom Max Kurzban, to providing relief from Laura Cisper popped the May sun, she loved open a ladylike parasol that it also “added to the for a dreamy garden stroll elegant and romantic through the Hotel Drov- aesthetic.”

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PR O C TO R - B R OW N: LY NDI R U T H PH OTO G R APH Y; CO FFM AN - W ES T W I C K : W HI T E O R C HID PH OTO G R APH Y; C IS PER - K UR ZBAN: TAR IN W EDDIN G S; J OS EPH A K IS- PE T I T T: S T EPH A NIE B R A Z ZL E PH OTO G R A PH Y; C HUR C H - K EEG AN: J O HN CA IN PH OTO G R A PH Y

>>

by J e s s i c a O t t e

DWEDDINGS.COM

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LET US STAY WITH YOU. ®

Where creativity and tradition inspire unforgettable experiences.

Extraordinary is only the beginning. At The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas, our dedicated team of experts will craft your wedding vision into a luxurious celebration of love.

To learn more, call 214-922-0200 or visit ritzcarlton.com/dallas. © 2023The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company LLC.

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H E L P F U L H I N T S A N D W E D D I N G - D A Y I N S P I R AT I O N F O R D A L L A S B R I D E S

p rev i ew pa r t y Even after a year of planning her wedding to groom Geoff Dunham at Dallas Arboretum’s Camp House, Rosie Center still couldn’t believe her eyes when she stepped foot in their reception tent for the first time.

“My jaw dropped, and I couldn’t stop saying, ‘Wow!’ ” she says of the sneak peek they got during cocktail hour. Rosie highly recommends having a private first viewing of the finished space while everything is perfect. “It was so exciting to see our vision come to life,” says Rosie, who shared a toast and a private first dance to Van Morrison’s “Crazy Love” with her groom before the festivities began. —Jessica Otte Turn the page to see more of this wedding

<< P H O T O G R A P H Y: Stephanie Brazzle Photography

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REAL WEDDINGS

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Great Lake: One perk of having the Camp House as your venue is the views of White Rock Lake it provides. Though the forecast called for rain, the newly minted Dunhams were treated to gorgeous weather and an amazing sunset, visible through the clear-sided tent.

“Everyone was watching the sunset and taking photos,” Rosie remembers.

Rosie Center Geoff Dunham May 13, 2023

Though Rosie Center and Geoff Dunham had attended the same high school, it took a setup by Rosie’s sister for the two to cross paths. They met at José on Lovers in summer 2020, and the rest was history. “I immediately loved how calm he is,” says Rosie. “He brings a sense of peace to me and makes me feel like I can just be who I am.” After almost two years of dating, Geoff proposed during a stroll around Lakeside Park—under the guise of taking Rosie’s nephew to feed the ducks. To honor their love of the outdoors, the couple chose a garden-themed reception with all the touches of home at the Dallas Arboretum’s Camp House. —Sarah Bennett

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Guests:

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Send Word: Rosie enlisted Milan Organ of Magnolia Boone Paperie to create her invitation suite. “When [Whitney Bailey of Engaged Events] and I met with Rosie to hear her dream suite vision, we all knew we were going to make some magic together,” Milan says. “We had her florals hand-painted by the fabulous Lydia Ryals, and from there, everything fell into place.”

Cake Flavor: Champagne with mixed-berry mousse and puree filling Groom’s Cake: Butter-fudge chocolate with mocha mousse First Dance: ”This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)”

by Natalie Cole

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Honeymoon: Amalfi Coast, Italy

Mix and Match: “Blush looked really pretty on everyone,” says Rosie. Her two matrons of honor, her sisters, wore Marchesa Notte dresses in a slightly darker tone of dusty rose with a print; her other bridesmaids wore a mix of lighter versions of the same gown or a solid.

“I knew I wanted a mix,” she adds.

Pulling It Together: The table numbers matched the floral artwork from the invitation suite. “We didn’t want everything to be matchymatchy, but we wanted that to be brought in somewhere inside the tent,” Rosie recalls. “I love what Milan did for that.”

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All in the Details: Blue trim around the head table’s white tablecloth added a polished touch, while the box-pleat skirt gave it a more residential feel.

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Under the Big Top: The original plan was to have a clear-top tent, but Rosie’s vendors gave her a tip that the May heat would be too much for the flowers. “We ended up adding the white draping, which I was happy with because it brought warmth and intimacy to the tent,” she says.

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Setting the Stage: “When we saw the gray lattice, we loved it,” says Whitney Bailey of Engaged Events. “It was very on-brand for this wedding— it was garden mixed with residential.” Planters full of flowers added lushness to the dance floor.

All Abuzz: “We really wanted to incorporate the hummingbirds as a nod to the Arboretum,” says Milan. The silhouettes against a boxwood backdrop made for a unique escort card display to help guests find their way.

<< Room to Bloom: Rosie wanted pastel floral arrangements that would pay tribute to the garden setting. “I loved the beautiful spring mixture that didn’t feel too structured,” she says. “It’s still classic but a little looser.”

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Keen on Classic: “This timeless and traditional buttercream stenciled-lace wedding cake will stand the test of time in their wedding photos,” says Fancy Cakes by Lauren’s Lauren Kitchens, who designed the cake, which was adorned with fresh flowers.

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Tried and True: Rosie chose a structured and formfitting Monique Lhuillier gown with a long train for her bridal look. “I loved the way the floral applique was carried throughout the dress,” she says. “It’s a classic shape but with details.”

THE DETAILS: Ceremony Site: Highland Park Presbyterian Church Photographer: Stephanie Brazzle Photography Bridal Gown Designer: Monique Lhuillier Bridal Gown Retailer: Neiman Marcus Hair & Makeup: Jones Beauty & Co Groom’s Attire: Knot Standard Bridesmaids’ Dresses Designer: Marchesa Notte Bridesmaids’ Dresses Retailer: Bella Bridesmaids Reception Site: Dallas Arboretum Camp House Flowers: The Garden Gate Stationery: Magnolia Boone Paperie Cake: Fancy Cakes by Lauren Catering: Gil’s Elegant Catering Music: Party Machine Band Lighting: Party! Dallas Wedding Rentals: Center Stage Floors; Marquee Event Rentals; Party! Dallas; Perch Event Decor Wedding Planner: Engaged Events

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Timeless Touches: Classic glamour carried through every aspect of Morgan and William’s big day, down to the bride’s accessories, which included a bracelet from her mom—her “something new.”

REAL WEDDINGS

Raise a Glass: The throwback champagne tower was one of William’s nonnegotiables. As Rick Ross played (“Champagne music!” Morgan laughs), the couple shared a toast. “It was such a moment,” remembers the bride.

Guests:

140 First Dance: mash-up of “Spend My Life With You”

by Eric Benét and a remix of “Never Would Have Made It”

by Marvin Sapp

Morgan Calhoun William Adams March 3, 2023

The stage was set for Morgan Calhoun and William Adams to fall in love. In 2018, the pair met at the Bishop Arts Theater while participating

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Let Love Grow: Seeking a unique way to honor their union, the couple partook in a unity tree ceremony, in which they each added soil to the pot and watered the roots. They chose a jade plant, which symbolizes happiness and prosperity.

Girl Time: Morgan and her ‘maids enjoyed their time getting ready together at The Olana. The venue’s bonus spaces—which include a movie theater, basketball court, bowling alley, handsome study, and beautiful getting-ready suites—were part of what sold the couple on it. “That bridal suite was insane!” Morgan says.

Honeymoon: Montego Bay, Jamaica

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Putting On the Glitz: In addition to enhancing The Olana’s ornate chandeliers with towering candelabras, the couple added to the reception’s Old Hollywood vibe with custom playbills and movie posters.

in a reading in which they played husband and wife. Their chemistry was undeniable.

“We had that initial spark and all-out giddiness when it all started,” Morgan remembers.

“But the thing that told me this was different was the way I saw him leading as a godly man, his humility, and his commitment to his faith and to our relationship.” The couple dated for two years before getting engaged, and on March 3, 2023, the theatrical

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pair’s glamorous Olana wedding echoed their mutual love of Old Hollywood.

—Samantha Cuin

<< Grand Plans: William, who works as an actor, and Morgan, who is a former actor and model, loved The Olana for its grandeur. “We had a cinematic idea of how we wanted everything to come together,” Morgan says.

Save the Last Dance for Me: Morgan and William enjoyed a private last dance to “Come On In” by Lady Wray.

The bride dazzled in a white second dress to which she added a jeweled overlay (repurposed from her bachelorette weekend) when her intended party dress didn’t arrive in time.

TH E DETAILS: Ceremony/Reception Site: The Olana Photographer: Laning Photography Bridal Gown Designer: Allison Webb Bridal Gown Retailer: Anna Bé Bridal Hair: Adorned by Renee Bennett Makeup: Dee Thomas Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Bridesmaids’ Dresses Retailer: BHLDN Flowers: Bebe’s Decor Stationery: Lyons Paperie Cake: Cretia’s Eatery and Bake Shoppe Catering: The Olana Music: CoHost Entertainment Lighting: CoHost Entertainment Videographer: Lee Kounas Wedding Rentals: Bebe’s Decor Wedding Planner: Virtuous Endeavors Weddings and Events Additional Vendors: Joche W. Events (ceremony drapery)

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Licensed to Wed...

Please contact our weddings manager, Weddings.Dallas@virginhotels.com | 469.436.7159 Virginhotels.com/dallas • @virginhotelsdalweddings

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Macy Truelove Ethan O’Neal September 10, 2023

IT WAS ALL A Oh, Snap: Stephanie Brazzle captured all of the day’s special moments for bride Macy Truelove, including this one of Macy’s mom and sister helping her into her Calla Blanche gown.

The photographer’s advice for couples?

“Avoid giving your photographer a shot list in its entirety.

Instead, begin by talking about important moments and pictures that you definitely want to be taken. From there, trust your photographer’s expertise.”

For D Weddings’ Dream Day Giveaway winners Macy Truelove and Ethan O’Neal, their wedding day was one they never could have imagined.

by J e s s i c a O t t e photography by S t e p h a n i e B r a z z l e P h o to g r a p hy

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hen Macy Truelove and her fiancé, Ethan O’Neal, heard about D Weddings’ Dream Day Giveaway—in which one lucky couple would win the wedding of their dreams in celebration of our 20th anniversary—they almost didn’t apply. “It’s like a running joke—I have the worst luck known to man,” Macy laughs.

But they decided to give it a shot. The Midlothianborn pair quickly won voters over with their easygoing natures and sweet love story, which dates back to eighth grade. After several rounds of voting, to their shock and surprise, they were selected as the winners. Overnight, their plans for a scaled-down, modest wedding went right out the window. “When we were paying for our own wedding, it was very simple,” Macy says, adding with a laugh, “My mom and I were going to do the flowers. We were really ballin’ on a budget.”

Fortunately, the all-star team of Dream Day vendors—spearheaded by planner Jess Wegner of

Jess Wegner Events—knew how to amplify their ideas while still staying true to the couple.

Macy’s vision of timeless arrangements of baby’s breath was transformed by Blushington Blooms’ Sophie Cox and Mazzi Stevens into organic and airy displays of garnet roses, sweet peas, and ranunculus in a classic white and green palette.

Ethan, meanwhile, was focused on experience. “I wanted a really big party,” he says. Though budget constraints would’ve ordinarily necessitated a DJ, he was thrilled about having live entertainment from Emerald City Band’s EC All Stars. “The music is what everybody remembered,” he says. “It was like your own personal concert.”

After a whirlwind four-month planning process, on September 10, 2023, the couple said “I do” at The Mason Dallas in front of 175 of their nearest and dearest. Even up until the day of their wedding, the couple could hardly believe their luck. “We had never been to an event of this scale before in our entire lives, and this one was for us,” Macy says. “It was just a surreal experience.”

Dancing on Air: The Mason Dallas provided the perfect backdrop for the timeless vibe Macy and Ethan were after.

“It doesn’t even need decorations, and then when you add everything, it’s just breathtaking,” says Macy, who changed into a “fun and flirty” dress for the dance portion of the evening. Meanwhile, her groom donned a custom shawl-lapel tux from Mister Tuxedo, which also made him a black velvet dinner jacket to wear following the ceremony.

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<< Fit to Print: The invitation suite, designed by Magnolia Boone Paperie, featured a watercolor painting of The Mason by Lydia Ryals and calligraphy

by Amy DuBois of Amy Sue Designs. The day-of paper pieces were just as extraordinary. “I had people tell me they put napkins and menus in their purses because they were just so pretty,” Macy laughs.

Honeymoon: A tour of the Mediterranean in 2024 Cake Flavor: Vanilla cream cake with salted caramel filling and vanilla buttercream icing

MAKE ROOM FOR THE GROOM

Though some grooms are happy to leave wedding planning to their other halves, Dream Day groom Ethan encourages his counterparts to take an involved approach. He attended all vendor meetings with Macy—something he would advise other grooms to do, even if they don’t always feel like they’re contributing. Beyond enjoying seeing the pieces come together, Ethan felt that forging a personal connection with their vendors allowed the vendors to make suggestions they knew the couple would like and motivated them to go above and beyond.

“They really got a view into us and how we are as a couple.

They had an investment in us versus just, ‘Oh, we have another wedding we have to do,’ ” he says, before adding with a wink, “Plus, we got champagne at all of the meetings.”

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Shine On: In addition to creating Macy and Ethan’s custom wedding bands, Eiseman Jewels graciously lent Macy jewelry to wear on her wedding day. “I felt like the queen,” Macy says.

True Beauty: My Fabulous Faces provided hair and makeup services for Macy and her bridesmaids. The bride opted to keep her hair down in loose curls, with soft makeup that enhanced her natural beauty. “Brides want to look like their very best and most fabulous version of themselves,” says owner Mayra Rams-Sanabria.

All Aglow: Absolute Entertainment put The Mason in its best light, highlighting architectural features and florals. “I hear the top floral professionals in town tell their clients that if they’re spending X amount on floral decor, it doesn’t make sense to not highlight it with lighting,” says Absolute co-owner Dave Von Blohn.

Take the Cake: The couple worked with Lauren Kitchens of Fancy Cakes by Lauren to design a vintage-style wedding cake that incorporated their custom crest. Lauren says when planning the look of clients’ cakes, she weighs everything from “wedding decor ... to the time and season the wedding will take place.”

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First Dance: “It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill (performed by Emerald City Band’s EC All Stars)

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Guests:

Sugar and Spice: Mama’s Medicine created two specialty cocktails for the evening: a spicy margarita with a Tajín rim for Macy and a smoked black-walnut oldfashioned for Ethan.

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Dream Weavers: Looking back on the experience, Ethan reflects on the “really, really exciting” journey.

“Up until the wedding day, we were still in disbelief,” he says. “Like, ‘Wow, can you believe this happened to us?’ ”

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Most Valuable Player: Planner and designer Jess Wegner of Jess Wegner Events curated the varied tablescapes using linens from BBJ La Tavola. Jess proved invaluable to Macy and Ethan—not just in the planning stages but on the day of, too. “Things go wrong on wedding days—even Dream Days— and Jess was putting out fires so we could just enjoy the moment,” says Macy.

Garden Party: From the table arrangements and personal flowers to the cascading blooms framing the escort card wall, Blushington Blooms blew Macy and Ethan away with their over-the-top creations that incorporated garnet roses, sweet peas, and ranunculus.

Pop the Top: In addition to this stunner of a champagne tower, Top Tier Event Rentals brought in a complementary bar and escort card wall (right), created in collaboration with Magnolia Boone Paperie.

<< Kiss Cam: “The next day, we saw everyone changing their Facebook profile pictures to the photos from the photo booth,” Macy remembers of the MOTUS Booth. Owner Scot Redman says their LUX option is most popular for weddings: “It takes gorgeous black-andwhite images that guests can keep for a lifetime.”

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Just Desserts: Besides preparing the hors d’oeuvres and dinner, Vestals Catering served milk and cookie shooters during the dance portion of the evening. “They were a hit!” Ethan says.

<< High Note: One of the couple’s favorite moments of the night was courtesy of their band, Emerald City Band’s EC All Stars. “We got on stage with them and sang,” remembers Macy. “That was a oncein-a-lifetime type of feeling right there.”

Scan the QR code to read insights from the Dream Day vendors on the planning process and how this vision came to life!

THE DETAILS: Ceremony/Reception Site: The Mason Dallas Photographer: Stephanie Brazzle Photography Bridal Gown Designer: Calla Blanche (ceremony); Show Me Your Mumu (reception) Bridal Gown Retailer: WED Bridal Boutique Hair & Makeup: My Fabulous Faces Groom’s Attire: Mister Tuxedo Bridesmaids’ Dresses Designer: Show Me Your Mumu Groomsmen’s Attire: Mister Tuxedo Flower Girl Dress Retailer: Dillard’s Flowers: Blushington Blooms Stationery: Magnolia Boone Paperie Cake: Fancy Cakes by Lauren Catering: Vestals Catering Music: Emerald City Band’s EC All Stars Lighting: Absolute Entertainment Videographer: Asher + Grace Transportation: Romantic Remembrances Wedding Rentals: BBJ La Tavola; Top Tier Event Rentals Wedding Planner/Designer: Jess Wegner, Jess Wegner Events Additional Vendors: Eiseman Jewels (wedding bands and Macy’s wedding day jewelry); Mama’s Medicine (cocktails); MOTUS Booth (photo booth); Lydia Ryals (invitation artwork); Amy Sue Designs (invitation calligraphy); Pinky’s Valet (valet); StarDust Celebrations (bridal gown retailer partner); Bruce Prindle (officiant)

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Rose All Day: The couple married in front of the entrance to Casa Hyder, with a floral arch of roses as the centerpiece. They chose to read their own vows for the intimate ceremony.

“I could listen to him read his again one thousand times over,” Alexis says.

REAL WEDDINGS

Alexis Shankle Dusty Taliaferro April 29, 2022

It was lucky for Dusty Taliaferro that Alexis Shankle was in her “not saying no” era when he messaged her on Instagram. After agreeing to a date, they were inseparable. Dusty proposed by “popping out of a bush” at the Arboretum, and the pair planned a long engagement while Dusty finished school. The couple finally said their vows at the dreamy Casa Hyder in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. They planned a fun-filled weekend in homage to the city’s vibrant colors, lively atmosphere, and abundance of tequila. Benito the donkey greeted guests, mariachis played, papier-mâché mojigangas danced, and of course tequila was the drink of choice. “The night felt like we were in our own fairy-tale garden,” Alexis says. “I thought, ‘I never want to leave this place.’ ” —Ryan Conner

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You’re a Star: Katherine Moore, owner of Katherine Jezek Design, created a menu that “echo[ed] the same lively colors and design elements as the invitation suite.” A star ornament, which was a nod to the hanging stars at the reception, served as a party favor for guests.

Guests:

70 First Dance: “Stand by Me” by Tracy Chapman On the Menu: Squash blossom soup Signature Cocktails: Hibiscus margaritas and mezcalitas Honeymoon: One&Only Mandarina

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A Moment in Time: Alexis and Dusty took a quiet moment to soak it all in. “It felt like we had been living in our own little world for those three days,” says Alexis. “It was so special to have everyone in the same place.”

Pretty in Pink: Alexis' bridesmaids' matched the decor in an array of dresses in varying shades of pink.

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<<In Style: Alexis chose a structural Romona Keveza gown and overskirt for the ceremony. She added a gold Romona Keveza belt for the reception. “It was a perfect pop of gold that [made] it look like a completely different dress,” she says. Dusty donned a white tuxedo jacket to complement Alexis’ classic look.

Star Gazing: Alexis was inspired by the native flowers that bloom all over San Miguel. “I wanted to emphasize the bougainvillea colors so that it felt like an extension of the florals that are already naturally planted there,” she says. Lush runners of roses lined the tables, and an installation of brass stars and flowers covered the tent’s ceiling.

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True Colors: “The wedding invitation suite captures the vibrant spirit of San Miguel,” says Katherine. “The centerpiece of the invitation is a custom monogram.”

Alexis chose a palette of bright colors to echo the colorful destination, and Katherine added a gold wax seal on a vellum wrap.

Water Sign: For Alexis’ wish of “flowers everywhere,” florist Angelica Solache filled Casa Hyder’s pool with floating flower petals. Bronze stars, a popular decoration seen throughout San Miguel, hung above.

<< Gold Mine: Alexis selected a pair of Aquazzura block heels and a Cult Gaia clutch to pair with her wedding day look. “I wanted both pieces to be something I would wear again,” Alexis says.

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Shoot Your Shot: In lieu of escort cards, the couple offered tequila shots for their guests before they found their seats. “We are really big into tequila, and we thought it would be a fun way to get the party started,” Alexis says. Katherine created paper lime wedges with the guests’ names and table numbers.

Seeing Red: A three-tier red velvet cake was adorned with roses in the wedding day’s color palette.

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Let’s Have a Parade: Instead of shuttling guests to and from the local park for the traditional San Miguel recessional parade, Alexis and Dusty brought the mojigangas to them. The supersize papier-mâché puppets danced along to the mariachi band during the cocktail hour.

THE DETAILS: Ceremony/Reception Site: Casa Hyder (San Miguel de Allende, Mexico) Photographer: Shannon Skloss Photography Bridal Gown Designer: Romona Keveza Bridal Gown Retailer: Warren Barrón Bridal Hair & Makeup: Natalia Issa Flowers: Angelica Solache (San Miguel) Stationery: Katherine Jezek Design Cake: Penzi Weddings (San Miguel) Catering: Penzi Weddings Music: DJ Esli Cano (San Miguel) Lighting: DJ Esli Cano Videographer: Splendor Films Wedding Rentals: Penzi Weddings Wedding Planner/ Designer: Penzi Weddings

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A bride and groom embark on a new life together with a wedding inspired by family history.

BEST OF THE WEST

By L a u r a K o s t e l ny

Photography by S h a n n o n S k l o s s P h o to g r a p hy

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hile Bonnie Blocker and Walker Nelson were well-versed in faceoffs and cross-checks as varsity lacrosse players in Flower Mound, they didn’t actually check each other out or have any meaningful face time until after graduation. “He asked me out a few times over those years, but I didn’t say yes until we had both moved to Dallas,” says Bonnie.

One date at Aw Shucks, and they were smitten.

A year later, Walker popped the question with a treasured heirloom from Bonnie’s mother. “It’s an old mine-cut diamond that my great aunt won in a poker game, according to family legend,” says Bonnie.

When it came to picking a wedding location, Fort Worth’s Hotel Drover was a no-brainer. Long before Bonnie picked up a lacrosse stick, roping and riding were part of her vernacular. “My family history is deeply rooted in cowboy culture, so the Stockyards were perfect,” she explains. Her grandmother and great-grandmother, Mitzi Lucas Riley and Tad Lucas, even have their own stars on the Fort Worth Stockyards’ Texas Trail of Fame. And while the couple leaned more into fancy than farm fresh, Bonnie says they made room for one special guest star. “The live longhorn was such a big hit for our guests,” she says.

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Bonnie Blocker James “Walker” Nelson June 10, 2023

Take the Bull by the Horns: Cacti, blooms, and longhorn skulls converged on a wall that did double duty as a tableassignment location and afterdinner photo backdrop.

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<< Love at First Scroll: Bonnie stopped scrolling on the Neiman Marcus Bridal Salon’s Instagram page when she came upon a strapless Reem Acra gown.

“It was the most unique, incredible dress I had ever seen—so intricately detailed,” she says. After she tried it on, she knew she’d found the one. “I couldn’t picture my wedding day without it.”

Guests:

Signature Cocktail: Spicy jalapeño margaritas and Bluebonnet margaritas (“I’m not sure what’s in the Bluebonnet—it’s a mystery only Hotel Drover knows—but I love them,” says Bonnie.)

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Sign of the Times: Garth Brooks inspired more than the wedding decor—he also influenced the playlist. “Walker and I love our fair share of country music. ‘Friends in Low Places’ was the last song played at the reception,” says Bonnie.

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These Boots Are Made for Dancing: Bonnie had the Electric Slide and two-stepping in mind when she selected her white boots by Betsey Johnson.

“They were super comfortable, and I knew my Reem Acra dress wouldn’t show much [of them]. Dancing was the priority.”

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MVP(et): Even Hoss, Bonnie’s mother’s golden retriever, was outfitted with a boutonniere for his role as ring bearer. “We were elated Hoss was able to be part of our wedding,” says Bonnie.

Late-Night Snack: Churros Party Favors: Hand fans and custom matchbooks First Dance: “Carried Away”

by George Strait

HOW THE WEST WAS WON

Maintaining a just-right balance of rustic and refined was the work of Rachel Grossman of Gold Dust Event Co. “Bonnie has such rich ties to the Stockyards, so I wanted to help her bring in a bunch of cowboy elements while keeping the event traditional and girly,” she says. To that end, Rachel set signage adorned in Garth Brooks lyrics among pretty petals. She offset the longhorn out front with a garden party in the back. A wall clad in longhorn skulls also featured delicate bouquets and stylish stationery. Dinner tables included loads of different natural textures, including wood, cowhides, and rattan, mixed with dainty dishware, colorful arrangements, and romantic candlelight. The pièce de résistance, though, was the custom color-blocked dance floor.

“That was a labor of love,” says Rachel. “That room is very brown, and the dance floor allowed us to get this incredible distribution of color and fun without going overboard.”

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Blue Besties: Because Bonnie loved the idea of “something blue” being represented by her nearest and dearest, she chose the hue for their bridesmaids’ dresses by Azazie. Hailey Kahn of Venus & Co. Flowers created a romantic bridal bouquet with an abundance of blooms, including peonies and white cosmos. “Hailey knew exactly what was in season and fit for our color palette,” says Bonnie. “Everyone comments about how gorgeous our florals were.”

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The Perfect Blend: During planning stages, Bonnie wanted all pink and orange—a very colorful, feminine palette. Then Walker stepped in. “He asked me to please let him have one color,” she says. Planner Rachel Grossman of Gold Dust Event Co. introduced a specific dusty shade of blue that suited them so well, they incorporated it into their invitation suite.

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Aisle Moment: Florist Hailey Kahn focused on creating concentrated moments along the length of the garden aisle. “We had peony moments, forsythia moments, delphinium moments, and moments where they all blended,” she explains. “Everything comes together in the disconnected arch, which perfectly framed Bonnie and Walker.”

On Brand: Bonnie and Walker commissioned a custom branding iron from a local artisan for the affair­, and the design was integrated into napkins, matchboxes, and the cake. Rachel took it a step further and worked with stationer Paper Planet and INKredible Dance Floors to bring the concept to the dance floor.

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Wedding Moooood: Rachel proposed the idea of inviting a real-life longhorn for cocktail hour, and the couple couldn’t resist. A friend of the family owns Lonesome Longhorn, which supplies steers specially trained for photo shoots.

Turn the page to see how another couple imagined the same venue in a completely different way!

➔

THE DETAILS: Ceremony/Reception Site: Hotel Drover Photographer: Shannon Skloss Photography Bridal Gown Designer: Reem Acra Bridal Gown Retailer: Neiman Marcus Hair & Makeup: Starr Beauty Co Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Bridesmaids’ Dresses Designer: Azazie Groomsmen’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Flowers: Venus & Co. Flowers Stationery: Paper Planet Cake: Crème de la Crème Cake Company Catering: Hotel Drover Music: Bishop String Quartet (ceremony); Dart Collective (reception) Lighting: Harry Photo Videographer: Leslee Layton Films Wedding Rentals: May I Serve U; Nüage Designs; Shag Carpet; Top Tier Event Rentals Wedding Planner/Designer: Gold Dust Event Co. Additional Vendors: Harry Photo (gobo, photobooth); Inkredible Dance Floors (dance floor vinyl); Kelly Redmond (content creator); Lonesome Longhorn (longhorn); Williams Sign Company (printer)

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REAL WEDDINGS

After years of long-distance dating and crisscrossing the country, a couple vows to never part again with a formal ceremony at Hotel Drover.

TOGETHER AT LAST Dress to Impress: Bride Porter Moore chose a sleek Chosen by KYHA dress and added a little flair for the ceremony.

“I wanted a big tiered, fluffy skirt attached with a belt that I could rip off as soon as I wanted,” she says.

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Porter Moore Andrew Baker August 19, 2023

By L a u r a K o s t e l ny Photography by S h a n n o n S k l o s s P h o to g r a p hy

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hen Porter Moore needed help navigating the New York City subway, she turned to fellow Floridian Andrew Baker. “We both grew up in Vero Beach, and our moms knew each other,” she explains. “It was so unlike me, but I had his number, so I texted him.” Before training her on the trains, Andrew took her to The Palm.

They’ve been together ever since.

The first four years of the relationship required another set of navigational skills.

“We were long-distance and chasing each other across the country,” Porter says. But when the world slowed down in 2020, so did they. Andrew popped the question, and the pair made it official—just the two of them—in Montauk, New York.

Three years later, the couple found themselves living in Dallas and decided it was high time to celebrate with a black-tie affair at Hotel Drover. Porter worked with wedding planner Shannon Lepard to achieve the couple’s vision for a ceremony set in an overgrown garden, followed by an old-school steakhouse-inspired reception—a nod to their first date. “We love that moody candlelit, dark, swanky vibe,” Porter says. “It all came together perfectly.”

REAL WEDDINGS

Guests:

132 First Dance: “Our Love”

by Gary Clark Jr. What Got the Party Started: The hora To-Go Treat: Boxed-up wedding cake from New York’s Milk Bar Honeymoon: Africa in 2025

Maids in the Shade: Mid-August in Texas is no joke, so parasols for the bridesmaids were a necessity from the start. The dress palette took a little more time to come together.

“I basically settled on blue after I had told them pink, floral, and nine million other variations,” says Porter.

“They each picked a dress on their own.”

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Matchmaker: In a nod to the steakhouse vibe, Porter made sure there were bowls filled with personalized matchbooks at the bars.

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Beating the Heat: Because of the heat, Adri Smith of Moss Floral Design assembled the chuppa at the last possible moment to keep the flowers fresh. “She absolutely crushed it,” says Porter. “I trusted her completely, and when I saw the blackberries dangling, I almost lost it. It was perfect.”

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MEAT CUTE

Once upon a time, Porter and Andrew were a few hours too early for the Fort Worth cattle drive. They wandered into Hotel Drover. Four mimosas later, they had a wedding venue and a wedding planner: Shannon Lepard of Lovely Event Co., who just so happened to be on-site.

“Porter’s whole thing was that she wanted the feel of a steakhouse but not cigars and dark wood,” Shannon explains. “The Drover is beautiful, and there’s so much wood, so we needed to bring in a lot of white.” That mission was accomplished by the bountiful monochromatic arrangements created

by Adri Smith of Moss Floral Design.

To double down on the steakhouse essence, Shannon turned down overhead lights and upped the candles and table lamps. “This was very much Andrew and Porter’s vibe in Texas,” the planner says. “There was so much food and lots of booze. They hired Professor D because they wanted everyone to go straight to the dance floor. I’ve never done a wedding like this. No one was awkwardly sitting at a table.

This was a party.”

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Paper People: Porter worked with Sal Studios to create the letter-pressed invitation suite on handmade paper.

“I was particular. I wanted something clean, organic, and glam,” she says.

Blank Slate: Bride and planner went back and forth about adding table linens. “I’m glad we didn’t bring them in.

It would have been more formal, but we needed that wood for all its richness,” says Shannon. Because Porter was drawn to the clean, organic feeling, they stuck with white flowers and abundant greenery. “Adri is wonderful, and her florals are artistic,” says Porter. “She added blackberries, and they’ll never be the same for me.”

Steak Your Claim: Even though Andrew and Porter don’t consider themselves cowboy-boots-and-Stetson people, they wanted to invite friends and family to a unique place that felt very Texas. Hotel Drover more than fit the bill. The reception space was tailor-made for the steakhouse vibe that they were hoping to achieve.

THE DETAILS: Ceremony/Reception Site: Hotel Drover Photographer: Shannon Skloss Photography Bridal Gown Designer: Chosen By KYHA Bridal Gown Retailer: Alice in Ivory Hair & Makeup: Ashley McNabb Artistry Groom’s Attire: Suitsupply; Todd Snyder Bridesmaids’ Dresses Designer: Amanda Uprichard; Reformation; Show Me Your Mumu; V. Chapman Flowers: Moss Floral Design Stationery: Sal Studios Cake: Milk Bar (New York, NY) Catering: Hotel Drover Music: Jeremy Green Music; Jordan Kahn Orchestra; Professor D Lighting: Hotel Drover Rentals: Bella Acento; Dallas Event Rentals; Imperial Floor Rentals; Posh Couture Rentals Wedding Planner: Lovely Event Co. Additional Vendors: Beauty and the Bakery (welcome-bag cookies); Kippot World (kippot); Occasional Paper Cuts (custom Items); The Room Block Source (hotel blocks); The Social Production (photo booth)

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REAL WEDDINGS

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Love in Bloom: In keeping with the organic feel of the venue and Julie’s dress, her bridal bouquet was kept unfussy.

Something Blue: Blue taper candles were incorporated into the tablescapes for a pop of vibrant color and timeless elegance.

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<< Natural Woman: Julie’s flowing, floweremblazoned Monique Lhuillier “Jardin” gown set the tone for the evening, with David’s deep green suit serving as a perfect complement.

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Easy Being Green: The couple opted for a simple suite that featured nods to the nature-heavy venue, including green lettering, a floral motif envelope liner, and a pair of lovebirds.

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True to Tradition: Florist Kate McLeod’s favorite piece to put together for Julie and David’s wedding was the chuppah. “It was so much fun to bring that to life with floral,” she says.

The Great Outdoors: The couple leaned into the natural feel of the venue, incorporating organic elements at every turn.

“You don’t have to do very much to dress up the space—it’s already beautiful the way it is,” says Kate.

After matching on JSwipe (“Tinder for Jews,” Julie laughs) and hitting it off, Julie Judson and David Galstyan decided to

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Petal Power: Florist Kate McLeod looked to Julie’s floral-patterned gown when designing arrangements for the affair.

“The dress was definitely an inspiration when choosing our florals,” she says. “The style of blooms, the free-flowing design, as well as the color throughout.”

Julie Judson David Galstyan May 28, 2023

meet up that very day. “We’ve been inseparable ever since,” Julie says. “We met on her doorstep,” David recalls, “only to find out later that the previous homeowner met his wife on that doorstep seven years prior.” Eighteen months later, David closed the loop by proposing to Julie in their home, and the two began planning a weekendlong wedding extravaganza.

Their goal was not just to celebrate their love but to integrate their communities and create lifelong relationships between their friends and family members. “We have friends that met at the wedding that still hang out with each other,” David says.

“It’s pretty special.” —Ellen Daly

T H E DETA ILS: Ceremony/Reception Site: Trinity River Audubon Center Photographer: Laning Photography Bridal Gown Designer: Monique Lhuillier Bridal Gown Retailer: Warren Barrón Bridal Hair & Makeup: Maitee Miles Groom’s Attire: Suit Supply Flowers: Kate McLeod Studio Stationery: Paper Affair Dallas Cake: Butterfly Cakery Catering: Boxwood Hospitality Group Music: Anthony Plant Trio (ceremony); Walton Stout Band (reception) Lighting: Astounding Sounds and Lighting Wedding Rentals: Posh Couture Rentals Wedding Planner: Kelly Butler, The Creative Touch, Events by Lauren Additional Vendors: Tallulah Ketubahs (ketubah)

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500 Crescent Court Suite 142 Dallas TX | 214.871.3611

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<< How Inviting: Aidan and Timot are avid outdoors enthusiasts. “We spent the majority of our honeymoon hiking in Norway,” she says.

So it was only natural for their wedding to incorporate their love of the outdoors, beginning with their floral-emblazoned invitations.

REAL WEDDINGS

Aidan Strother Timot Kellermayer April 29, 2023 Houston-raised Timot Kellermayer met Aidan Strother, a Seattle native, in Dallas during their first month of medical school.

Their love blossomed on the shores of White Rock Lake, where they’d meet for walks during the COVID-19 pandemic. After two-and-a-half years of dating, the outdoorsy pair ventured to Maui, where, against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset, The Look of Love: Reflecting on their wedding day, Aidan says, ”It was like a dream. Having all of the people you love and cherish together like that is such a special experience. We’re so grateful for Ryan’s excellent photography that lets us relive the day as many times as we want!”

at the end of a volcanic hike. When it came to

First Dance: “Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest Honeymoon: Norway

the couple returned to where it all began, hosting

In Bloom: Strong winds on the day of the wedding necessitated some last-minute pivots, but planner Sharon Frazier and florist Taylor Doyle pulled off this blooming seating chart that had table assignments mounted on velvet boxes.

Building, which overlooks

Bray All Day: After the ceremony, a pair of “beer burros” greeted guests.

“They were a big hit at the cocktail hour!” Aiden remembers.

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Gold Plated: Planner Sharon Frazier incorporated subtle color to achieve the neutral but feminine feel Aidan desired. The robin-egg-blue chargers “were the perfect punch of color,” Sharon says, while gold flatware “warmed things up.”

choosing a wedding venue,

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a reception at The Filter White Rock Lake. “It was really special to that have spot in the city,” says Aidan.

“This is our spot. This is where we got to know each other, where we fell in love.” —Samantha Cuin

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Timot dropped to his knee

Guests:

Wild Child: “I wanted the bouquet to have a sort of wild quality to it—not too manicured, almost like I could have just collected a handful of flowers from the garden,” says Aidan.

<< Brick House: (far left) The Filter Building’s industrial feel needed some softening to achieve the aesthetic the couple was after. Sharon achieved that with ample candlelight, soft gray and blue accents, and plenty of greenery.

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Growing Up: Sharon came up with a “growing greenery” theme that carried through all design elements, including the painted cake, which was accented with live blooms sprouting out.

T H E DETA I LS: Ceremony Site: Holy Trinity Catholic Church Photographer: Ryan Greenleaf Bridal Gown Designer: Audrey & Oliver, fabric by Watters Bridal Gown Retailer: Lasting Bridal Couture Hair & Makeup: B-Lashed Beauty & Bridal Bar Groom’s Attire: Kenneth Cole Bridesmaids’ Dresses Designer/Retailer: Azazie Groomsmen’s Attire: Generation Tux Reception Site: The Filter Building Flowers: The Floral Eclectic Stationery: Papier Cake: Sugar Bee Sweets Catering: Food Glorious Food Music: DJ Jason Esquire Lighting: Jason Esquire Wedding Rentals: BBJ La Tavola; Center Stage Floors; Perch Event Decor; Top Tier Event Rentals Wedding Planner/Designer: Sharon Frazier, Birds of a Feather Events Additional Vendors: Ragan Hope Calligraphy (invitation calligraphy)

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REAL WEDDINGS

Julian Leaver Francisco Diaz November 12, 2022

“The timing was never right,” says wedding planner Julian Leaver of his on-again, off-again start with Francisco Diaz. “And then all of a sudden, it was.” Five years into their relationship, Julian proposed on a boat tour in St. Barts. Francisco had a hunch about what was in store but became doubtful, he says, “because there wasn’t a photographer on board, and we all know Julian would have a photographer at the ready.” the shutterbug—disguised as a deckhand—snapped away. A delightfully surprised Francisco said yes, and the newly engaged duo sailed off into the sunset. On

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Julian got down on one knee as

Set the Tone: The couple’s black-on-black stationery suite set the tone for what they were envisioning for their big day. “I tell our clients all the time that stationery is the keystone,” Julian says. “It’s what you can see and feel long before your guests see your actual wedding day.” The invitations by Southern Fried Paper featured a pattern created by artisans in Mexico that was based on a rendering of a door at the couple’s venue.

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November 12, 2022, the pair said “I do” in a moody and romantic affair that celebrated their love story many years in the making.

—Lydia Brooks

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Dark Magic: Wedding planner and designer Sarah Kane of Julian Leaver Events took inspiration from a chic, modern restaurant and Francisco’s hometown of Mexico City, Mexico, to create the day-of design.

“Julian and Francisco both love a clean, contemporary look with some drama,” she says. “While the overall aesthetic was dark and moody, lots of personalized touches made it feel warm and inviting.”

Guests:

220 First Dance: “Over and Over Again”

by Nathan Sykes Signature Cocktails: A mocktail Mambo Taxi and the “Pixie-rita”—a spicy margarita named after the couple’s dog Honeymoon: The Maldives

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Space to Relax: Though one might expect a professional wedding planner to be involved in every bit of his own nuptials’ planning process, Julian chose to let his trusted colleague and friend, Sarah, take charge. “I was almost getting too close,” Julian laughs. “Letting Sarah take the lead allowed me to relax and enjoy the process, like we try to do for our clients.”

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Mix and Match: The grooms chose matching Q Clothier tuxedos styled with Seigo bow ties for their ceremony ensemble. Later, at the reception, they changed into grey dinner jackets and Dior sneakers—Julian in high-tops and Francisco in a low-slung style.

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Grand Ideas: The pièce de résistance of GRO Designs’ flowerscape was a set of floating florals that welcomed guests to the reception. Of GRO’s creative director, Nathan Johnson, Julian says, “Nathan is just a genius. He was relentless in wanting to do something cool in that space, and it more than paid off.”

Festive Florals: Julian looked to Nathan for his day-of floral design. To create the couple’s desired moody and romantic look, Nathan filled the venue with a cadre of spotted orchids, violet calla lilies, and blush garden roses.

Charcuterie Cuties: Bite-size charcuterie boards plated in miniature bell jars served as the escort card display. “Sarah knew that the one thing you could count on when coming to our home is that you will be served some type of charcuterie,” Julian laughs. “That’s just our thing.”

<< Frosted and Floating: Francisco’s idea for the cake to have a floating layer was brought to life by Lauren Kitchens of Fancy Cakes

by Lauren. The sugar-paper-covered confection contained three flavors: strawberries and cream, double chocolate, and champagne cake with raspberry filling.

T H E D ETA I LS: Ceremony/Reception Site: Hall of Lights Photographer: Abby Jiu Photography Hair & Makeup: Maitee Miles Groom’s Attire: Q Clothier; Christian Louboutin; Dior; Seigo New York (ceremony); Suitsupply; Dior (reception) Groomsmen’s Attire: The Black Tux Flower Girl Dress Designer: Childrensalon Flowers: GRO Designs Stationery: Southern Fried Paper Cake: Fancy Cakes by Lauren Catering: Blue Fire Catering Music: Justin Cash; Garrett McGrew (ceremony); Jordan Kahn Orchestra; Mariachi Fiesta USA; DJ Hooligan (reception) Lighting: Jacob Co Creative Videographer: Candlelight Films Getaway Car: DFW Vintage Cars Transportation: Premier Transportation Wedding Rentals: Bella Flora; Center Stage Floors; Nüage Designs; Party! Dallas; Perch Decor; Sandone Productions; Top Tier Event Rentals Wedding Planner/Designer: Sarah Kane, Julian Leaver Events Additional Vendors: The Pictsy Booth

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REAL WEDDINGS

Emily Tabor Jack Cozort April 1, 2023

AWAY WE GO!

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Emily Tabor and Jack Cozort welcomed guests to dreamy beach town Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, for a destination wedding inspired by their love of travel.

“W

e wanted the wedding weekend to feel like a group vacation,” says Emily Tabor of her wedding to Jack Cozort. And that’s no surprise, considering the couple met as interns at Southwest Airlines. After traveling with friends over the summer, Jack and Emily started to date. But it wasn’t until a mishap-laden trip to Colorado that Emily was sure steady and calm Jack could be her travel partner for life. After dating for three years, Jack proposed.

The couple landed on Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, for their spring nuptials. Emily had grown up visiting the area, and Jack had fallen in love with it, too. “We love golf, and the mountains, and hiking, and the beach, and it’s one of those places that has all of those things,” she says. They booked the historic Mission Ranch for its natural beauty.

Emily brought in Karli Spangler of Karli Spangler Events to create an event with “the joy of a Ted Lasso episode with the look and feel of a Nancy Myers movie.” They decided on a natural spring palette of yellows and blues that complemented the pastoral scenery of the 22-acre ranch.

As is the case with any travel plans, there’s always a risk that something could go wrong with a destination affair.

Indeed, the Carmel area had experienced record-breaking flooding leading up to the celebration, and there were high chances for rain the week of. But the day guests arrived, a rainbow arched over Pebble Beach. “We knew then that it was going to be a great time,” Emily says.

By R y a n C o n n e r Photography by E l l e n A s h to n P h o to g r a p hy

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Pattern Play: Emily gave her wedding party freedom to wear their own dresses in the color palette of the day.

“I didn’t do any coordinating,” she says. “I didn’t say no to a single dress. My friends have great style, and they did a good job of being themselves and wearing something they felt beautiful in.”

First Dance: “Always Be My Baby”

by Anderson East Appetizer: Mini grilled cheese with tomato soup Signature Cocktails: “Hogan,” a Paloma named after their Australian shepherd; an old fashioned dubbed the “Cozy Cocktail” as a play on their last name Honeymoon: Bali

Sparkle and Shine: “I tried on so many dresses, but when I tried on this one, I immediately felt beautiful,” says Emily of the Anne Barge dress she purchased from The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak. “I didn’t want any sparkle, but the shimmer on it is so subtle. And it is so movable and bouncy. I could just be myself and move about.” She wore a custom lace Anne Barge cape for the ceremony.

It’s in the Bag: “We created a welcome bag for Emily and Jack that infused both their personalities and the personality of Carmel-by-the-Sea,” says wedding planner Karli Spangler. Guests were treated to custom playing cards by Pink Champagne Designs; custom baseball hats featuring a butterfly detail; an itinerary; and other local goodies, like chocolates from Cottage of Sweets in Carmel.

Scenic Views: Emily’s godmother, artist Robin Huckabee, painted the watercolor artwork for the paper suite, including the scenes of Carmel on the save-the-date and the detail cards, as well as the soft flower border on the invitation.

Pink Champagne Designs used Robin’s art to create the invitations as well as paper details throughout the weekend.

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Lovely Day: “Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its marine layer and moody beach,” says Emily. “I picked the location, knowing it would be a foggy, misty day.” But instead, the fog burned off and the couple were treated to a near-perfect sunny day.

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Guests:

THAT’S SO FLY

“I had a minor obsession with monarch butterflies [when I was] growing up, and my mom calls me her ‘little butterfly,’ ” says bride Emily. “I benefitted from butterflies being trendy right now.” Found everywhere from the custom playing cards and hat in their welcome bags to the butterfly details on her wedding invitation, the sweet nod to Emily’s childhood appeared throughout the wedding weekend. But Emily’s idea for a guest book turned work of art was one of the most creative uses. She had long admired Fort Worth– based artist Sarah Gentry’s 3D butterfly art, so she asked her to make mini versions for guests to sign. After the wedding, Sarah assembled them into a piece of art that now hangs in the Cozorts’ home. “It’s my favorite detail from the wedding,” Emily says.

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Let’s Hang: Karli and Emily agreed that bringing the height of the venue down for the reception would create a more intimate vibe. “Hanging items from the ceiling helps to create a more ‘closed’ effect,” says Karli. “We brought in large circular rope chandeliers as a nautical nod and adorned them with floral to create a focal point for the space.”

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Wonder Wall: Emily and her mom worked tirelessly to collect photographs of every guest for the escort-card wall.

“My mom and I had this vision,” says Emily. “She’s photographed most of my life, and she loves photography. So we collected all of these photos of guests and transferred them to black and white.”

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Personal Touch: Pink Champagne Designs personalized each menu with the guests’ names and dinner selection. “We wanted everyone to feel thought of,” says Emily. A wax emblem with the new couple’s initials was featured at the top.

On the Fringe: Karli brought in fringed umbrellas to provide sunny shade on the outdoor space. Karli and Emily decided on minimal floral around the venue’s outdoor areas. “We wanted to complement how beautiful the space is,” says Emily.

THE DETAILS: Ceremony/Reception Site: Mission Ranch (Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA) Photographer: Ellen Ashton Photography Bridal Gown Designer: Anne Barge Bridal Gown Retailer: The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak Hair & Makeup: Blush Makeup Studio (Monterey, CA) Groom’s Attire: Hickey Freeman Flowers: Barefoot Floral (Carmel, CA) Stationery: Pink Champagne Designs (stationer); Robin Huckabee (stationery art) Cake: Edith Meyer Wedding Cakes (Santa Cruz, CA) Catering: Mission Ranch Music: Manhattan, Jordan Kahn Music Company Videographer: Johnny B Films (Orange County, CA) Wedding Rentals: BBJ La Tavola; Found Rental Co.; Standard Event Rentals; Theoni Collection Wedding Planner/Designer: Karli Spangler Events

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REAL WEDDINGS

Stephanie Wadsworth and Pete White began long-distance dating after meeting online in 2019. But Covid-related travel restrictions put in place shortly thereafter

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White Wedding: Not wanting to wear white but still wanting to feel like a bride, Stephanie made a clever creative decision: She asked all the guests to wear white instead. “With the white marble in the Meyerson, it really made my dress and the flowers pop,” says Stephanie. “Plus, Pete’s last name is White, so we got to call it a ‘White Wedding.’ ”

Stephanie Wadsworth Pete White July 31, 2023

would prevent the Dallasbased Stephanie and her Canadian beau from seeing each other for 20 long months. “He told me, ‘If the borders ever open up, I’ll come down [to Dallas], and I won’t ever leave,’ ” says Stephanie. Reunited at long last in late 2021, Pete proposed. Having worked as a wedding photographer for five years, Stephanie hired a team of colleagues to make her very own wedding-day dreams come true. In an intimate, family-oriented ceremony, the two wed on a Monday in July, as quickly as they could after Pete’s American visa was

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All Natural: Inspired by the hues in her nontraditional wedding dress, Stephanie chose a whimsical, multicolored bouquet by Branching Out Events to create the ethereal vibe she was going for. “In such a structured space like the Meyerson, I just wanted the florals to feel really organic,” she says.

Clear Vision: Stephanie’s weddingindustry expertise helped her make her big day extra special.

“Stephanie’s vision was so unique. It allowed us the challenge of curating a design composed of florals, decor, and rentals that we don’t work with as often,” explains Kelsey Williams of Branching Out Events.

approved. —Ellen Daly

Hue’s the Boss: The neutral interiors of the Meyerson Symphony Center were a perfect backdrop for Stephanie’s vivid aesthetic, which included amber ghost chairs.

A-Tisket, A-Tasket: Stephanie had lots of original ideas for her own big day, including a moss basket that her daughter, their flower girl, carried down the aisle.

“Being in the events industry herself, she asked us to keep our choices vibrant and unique to deviate from what is typically seen,” says florist Kelsey Williams.

Family First: “We wanted to have a really intimate, family-only dinner with just my and my husband’s siblings and parents,” explains Stephanie. “So we started our day with the dinner, and then we had our ceremony and dance party with all of our friends.”

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Love at First Sight: Stephanie chose her hand-painted Leanne Marshall gown because it reminded her of one of her favorite dates with Pete, watching the sunset. “Now, whenever he sees a sunset, he’ll send me a picture and say, ‘Look! The sky looks like your wedding dress!’ ” she laughs.

THE DETAILS: Ceremony/Reception Site: Meyerson Symphony Center Photographer: John Cain Photography Bridal Gown Designer: Leanne Marshall Bridal Gown Retailer: Alta Moda Bridal (Salt Lake City, UT) Hair & Makeup: Maitee Miles Groom’s Attire: Knot Standard Flowers: Branching Out Events Cake: Fancy Cakes by Lauren Catering: Meyerson Symphony Center Music: Jordan Kahn Orchestra, Jordan Kahn Music Company Wedding Rentals: Posh Couture Rentals Wedding Planner: Haylie Paige Events

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REAL WEDDINGS

Brittany Davison Cameron Brown July 30, 2022

After Brittany Davison and Cameron Brown’s January 2022 engagement at Highland Park’s picturesque Flippen Park, it was only fitting that their wedding later that year would be a garden-partyinspired affair. “I knew I wanted a lot of really colorful flowers,” Brittany says of her whimsical summertime nuptials, which took place at Colorado’s Lazy J Ranch. And thanks to the team at Emily Clarke Events, that’s exactly what she got. But even though the couple’s rainbowcolored, flower-filled day was absolutely perfect, Brittany does have one regret: “I wish

Lattice Entertain You: The garden-party vibes were completed by installing floral- and greenery-adorned lattice work throughout the reception tent.

I had spent more time on the dance floor,” she says. “It went by so fast!”

—Rhonda Reinhart

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Timeless Love: Brittany had her dress choices narrowed down to two options: this one and one that was completely different.

Ultimately, she followed her heart. “This dress had that classic, timeless look I knew I wouldn’t regret,” she says of the Monique Lhuillier beauty she chose for her big day. “It was what I always pictured my wedding dress being.”

First Dance: “Someone Like You”

by Van Morrison Honeymoon: Italy—from Lake Como to Tuscany to the Amalfi Coast

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Blue Crush: The Alfred Sung bridesmaid dresses were an easy choice for Brittany because they checked all the boxes: classic style, beautiful silhouette, and the perfect pale blue color to complement her overall wedding palette.

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Home Style: “I wanted the reception to feel like you were at our home,” Brittany says. “I wanted it to have that warmth to it.” The Emily Clarke Events team incorporated various places for guests to perch throughout the reception tent, including tête-à-tête seating, banquette seating, and highboy communal tables with barstools.

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Let Love Grow: The design team opted for turf flooring in the ceremony tent to make it feel as if the flowers were growing naturally in the space. Though the front and back of the tent were enclosed, the sides were open to give the space an open-air feel. “I also wanted to highlight the landscape and the scenery,” Brittany says, “which is why we went with that beautiful clear tent.”

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In Bloom: “Our main goal was bringing a whimsical garden into Colorado nature,” says planner Emily Clarke of Emily Clarke Events. “For the flowers, we took inspiration from the Colorado landscape, pulling colors you would see in wildflowers there.”

Into the Woods: The cutout aspen-tree stationery, designed in the same hue as the bridesmaid dresses, was another nod to Colorado’s natural landscape.

Quick Change: For the reception, Brittany let her hair down and removed the jacket from her dress for a more casual look.

The Mountains Are Calling: Louisiana native Brittany always knew she wanted to get married in Colorado.

Her family has a home there, and she grew up visiting—and loving—the state. “Colorado is like a second home to me,” she says. “I just love being in the mountains, and it obviously has gorgeous views.” The picturesque Lazy J Ranch in Wolcott, outside Vail, was the ideal spot.

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Petal Pushers: The floral theme continued at the food stations with acrylic pastel flowers perched on bright green bases and printed with the evening’s menu.

the << Bringing Outdoors In: The moss-covered bar and cascading flowers overhead helped create an outdoor garden feel inside the reception tent.

Sugar Rush: The sugarpaper flowers on the bride’s cake mimicked the flowers in the floral design. “We wanted the cake to match everything around it, especially with color,” Emily says.

T H E D ETA I LS: Ceremony/Reception Site: Lazy J Ranch Photographer: Brian Leahy Photography Bridal Gown Designer: Monique Lhuillier Bridal Gown Retailer: Neiman Marcus Hair & Makeup: LB Rosser Groom’s Attire: Brunello Cucinelli, purchased at Stanley Korshak Bridesmaids’ Dresses Designer: Alfred Sung Bridesmaids’ Dresses Retailer: Bella Bridesmaids Groomsmen’s Attire: Stanley Korshak Flowers: Emily Clarke Events Stationery: The Detail Department Cake: Fancy Cakes by Lauren Catering: Red Maple Catering Music: Spinphony; Simply Irresistible Lighting: Jacob Co Creative Videographer: Candlelight Films Wedding Rentals: Perch Event Decor; Colorado Party Rentals; Event Rents Wedding Planner/Designer: Emily Clarke Events Additional Vendors: Lola Valentina & Nüage Designs (Linens); Sandone Productions (Tenting); The Detail Department (Production); Warrington & Company (Draping); Jay’s Valet (Transportation)

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W E D D I N G - D AY R E F L E C T I O N S A N D R E A L- L I F E A D V I C E F O R B R I D E S

l ad i e s i n wa i t i n g Cameron Keylor Matthew Saxon April 23, 2022 Cameron Keylor wanted her wedding day to be special—not just for her and her groom, Matthew, but for her flower girl, too. From the getgo, Cameron made sure to include 2.5-year-old Kamden—who is the daughter of her cousin, and with whom she is extremely close—in her day-of plans, beginning with the matching Hill House dresses they wore in the bridal suite.

“I had picked out our matching getting-ready dresses before I had even picked out my wedding dress,” says Cameron, who says their twinning moment made Kamden “so proud.”

Once Cameron was ready to show her finished look to her bridal party, Kamden excitedly took her place among the ’maids, which included her mom, and covered her eyes. “She immediately ran up and jumped in my arms to hug me,” Cameron remembers of the reveal. “When I put her down, she spun around to show me her dress.” —Jessica Otte

THE TAKEAWAY: Finding ways to make the littlest members of your bridal party feel special will make for lifelong memories for them—and you. “It meant everything to me,” Cameron says.

Turn the page for more teachable moments from real weddings >>

P H O T O G R A P H Y: Anna Smith Photography

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MOMENTS

Flash Back Good photography reflects how your wedding looked; great photography reflects how it felt. The four unscripted moments featured here capture the love, emotion, and sometimes humor that make your day memorable.

Plus: What you can learn from each one.

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Yagmur Duman Will Griffin August 20, 2023 Yagmur Duman and Will Griffin’s Vail, Colorado, nuptials were sprinkled with good luck when a storm popped up at the start of their ceremony.

Unable to wait the rain out due to their chapel’s tight schedule, the nearlyweds said “I do,” then ventured out into the downpour for their petal toss. Thankfully, their planner, Karli Spangler of Karli Spangler Events, had clear bubble umbrellas on hand, which their wedding party used to create a makeshift tent. While the bride’s wedding gown and shoes were soaked through by the end, she thankfully had a reception outfit at the ready.

Yagmur credits her vendor team for the easy transition to the backup plan. “Given that the rain was so brief, I don’t think any of our guests noticed the switch,” she says.

“It all came about so seamlessly.” —Lydia Brooks; photo

by John Cain Photography

THE TAKEAWAY: Be prepared, then roll with the punches. Plan B might be even more beautiful than you imagined. “I really didn’t have any time to be worried about the rain,” says Yagmur. “And I loved the way all the umbrella photos turned out!”

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Haley Walton Zach Harris April 8, 2023 After Zach Harris popped the question to his high-school-friend-turned-something-more, Haley Walton, the two started planning their big day at The Room on Main. Though there were lots of decisions to be made, there was no question that a certain family member would be involved. “Zach’s grandpa, Mike, is the only grandparent we have left between the two of us,” says Haley. “He lives in New Braunfels, Texas, where he teaches accordion lessons within the local community.” It’s tradition for Grandpa Mike to play a song for the bride and groom anytime someone in the family gets married, and Haley and Zach were excited to have their turn. He chose a romantic tune that honored the groom’s Czech heritage, and, to this day, friends of the couple still recount how his performance was the highlight of their wedding. “It made us all feel like we were strolling down the streets in some tiny European town,” says Haley. —L.B.; photo by Emily Chappell Photography

THE TAKEAWAY: You’ll never regret giving loved ones a chance to show their affection— through a speech, gesture, or performance.

“It was such a special moment for us,” recalls Haley. “There wasn’t a dry eye in the house!”

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MOMENTS

< Stephanie Nixon Brandon Chu May 20, 2023 When Stephanie Nixon and Brandon Chu first began envisioning what their wedding day would look like, finding a way to incorporate their dog, Rose, was at the forefront. “It only felt right to have her with us on our big day,” says Stephanie. With help from their wedding planner, Elizabeth Gonzalez of After Yes, the couple decided that Rose would accompany Brandon down the aisle. To make sure their pooch looked the part, Stephanie found a white dress, complete with a pearl leash, that complemented her own Monique Lhuillier gown. Elizabeth made sure Rose’s day-of debut went smoothly and arranged for a dog sitter to take her home following the ceremony so everyone could enjoy the rest of the evening worry-free. “Our wedding was so amazing and everything we imagined,” Brandon says. “To have Rose be a part of it was even more special.” —L.B.; photo by Shannon Skloss Photography

THE TAKEAWAY: “Incorporating pets can be a tricky when it comes to weddings, as their behavior is so unpredictable,” says Elizabeth. “But when done correctly, it can be really special and make for adorable photos!”

<

Allison Speese Austin McCormick June 18, 2022

Sometimes the sweetest moments of your wedding day happen without your even knowing it. Such was the case for Allison Speese and Austin McCormick. While they were saying “I do,” their flower girl and ring bearer—niece Sydney, 4, and nephew Hudson, 6—were getting antsy in their seats. But only when the couple was going through their wedding photos did they learn about the lighthearted moment. “It was and continues to be one of my favorite images from the wedding,” says Allison. “It completely captures Sydney’s personality and makes having my niece and nephew as part of our wedding all the more memorable and special.” —Jessica Otte; photo by Sarah Kate Photographer THE TAKEAWAY: While

involving kids in your big day makes for dear memories, it also requires grace—something Allison, a wedding planner herself, knows all too well. “I tell all of my couples that at the end of the day, you will be married and that alone is a success,” says Allison, who—together with her husband, Austin—runs Denver-based event company Alchemy Collective. “Letting the day play out organically and, yes, sometimes unexpectedly, is part of the magic.”

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REGISTRY

Rethink Your Registry FIRST-AID KIT ($30/AMAZON) AWAY ROSE GOLD ALUMINUM CARRY-ON ($625/AWAY)

RATTAN BEACH CHAIR ($180/ AMAZON.COM)

GARDEN GLORY “AMETHYST” WATERING CAN ($89/ GARDENGLORY.COM)

JULY CARRY ON ($295/JULY.COM)

LE CREUESET 7.25-QUART DUTCH OVEN IN NECTAR ($460/WILLIAMS SONOMA)

WEEZIE TOWELS (FROM $19/ ELLIS HILL)

KITCHENAID STAND MIXER AND CERAMIC MIXING BOWL (FROM $130/CRATE & BARREL) MAUVIEL COPPER COOKWARE ($1,205 FOR SET OF FIVE/ WILLIAMS SONOMA)

GARDEN GLORY “BLOOMING BLOSSOM” KIT ($299/ GARDENGLORY.COM)

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“Crystal. I love how it looks but am so afraid to use it, because I know it was expensive!”

“All the random appliances.

You really think you’re going to make your own ice cream on the reg? You won’t.”

“Heavy dinner plates.

Your kids won’t be able to carry them until high school, and you’ll be stuck with the Batman plates.”

“Overpriced sheets. You, your future puppy, or child will ruin them, and you’ll end up with sheets from Amazon Basics in no time.”

“We registered for tons of cocktail glasses, and they don’t get used much.”

“Towels. Looking back, I would rather just buy those myself for much cheaper than the department stores sell them!”

“Decorative knickknacks like vases and candleholders. Twenty years later, a lot of them cause me more stress because I don’t use them and feel bad getting rid of them, because they’re wedding gifts.”

“Married 16 years.

Never touched my panini maker.”

EL IZ A B E T H L AV IN

As your lactose-intolerant husband unwraps a shiny new ice-cream maker and you struggle to find shelf space for your 12th bath towel, it may hit you: We overdid it on the registry. So which commonly registered-for items are mustkeep, and which should you covertly return for—those magic words—store credit? We polled past brides to find out.

REGISTRY REGRETS

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WOVEN WICKER CLOCHE ($169/ NICHOLSON-HARDIE)

WILLIAM YEOWARD HURRICANE ($1,890/THE IVY HOUSE)

DYSON V15S DETECT SUBMARINE ABSOLUTE WET-DRY VACUUM CLEANER ($950/CRATE & BARREL)

EUREKA “IGNITE” CAMP STOVE ($125/REI)

PINE & MAGNOLIA GARLAND ($229/NICHOLSON-HARDIE)

ZWILLING “ENFINIGY” TOASTER ($170/WILLIAMS SONOMA)

DEWIT PERENNIAL PLANTER ($51/NICHOLSON-HARDIE)

MOST LOVED “My All-Clad stainless-steel cookware. I’ve been married for over 20 years, and it still looks great even though I use it every day. I can imagine it going another 20 years.”

“Something random we registered for was nice beach chairs! They have gotten so much use at the beach, Arboretum concerts, the lake, front-yard hangouts, and camping.”

“An all-purpose first-aid kit.

It seems so silly, but as newlyweds, we didn’t have anything like it.”

“We received much of our camping and hiking

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gear from our registry, and every time we use it, I feel nostalgic.”

“I use plain white Wedgwood china as my daily plates, and it matches easier to other serving dishes, so we use it for fancier dinners and family dinners in the dining room, too. They also hold up much better than the various cheaper white ceramic dishes.”

“Extra flatware. It always goes missing.”

“I have a love-hate relationship with my KitchenAid mixer. It takes up a lot of space for something I use

CAMP BLANKET ($84/REI)

twice a year, but my kids love it. And I felt like an official bride when I opened that gift.”

“Luggage! We got a really nice suitcase set, which has seen a lot of miles and is still going strong. We were able to immediately put it to use for our honeymoon!”

“High-quality linens and towels. If you don’t get white, make sure you get extra hand towels and pillowcases, as those wear out first—and your color will be discontinued when you’re looking to get a few more. Ours lasted for 10-plus years.”

“I’ve been married 20 years and still use the same Pyrex casserole dishes.”

“A Dyson!”

“An electric meat knife.

This goes hand in hand with the electric smoker my brother-in-law gifted us.

It created a true passion for my husband.”

“Christmas ornaments and a tree if you don’t get real ones annually.”

“A Waterford vase—it elevates those Trader Joe’s flowers and provides a nice memory every time I use it.”

“Gardening tools—like a high-quality retractable/ accordion garden hose—and household tools: hammer, screwdriver with interchangeable heads, tape measure, pliers, variety of wrenches, etc.”

“In the group gift category, we were able to get our patio furniture via our registry and still use it.”

“We probably use our Le Creuset Dutch oven more than any other piece of cooking equipment.”

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What’s Old Is New Again Local bridal reconstruction expert Lovell Cox can give wedding gowns new life.

by J e s s i c a O t t e

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O

nce the bouquet has been tossed, the last drops of champagne sipped, and the band’s final notes played, one of the traditional after-wedding to-dos for brides has long been to take their wedding gowns to be preserved. For most of those brides, their gown will remain stowed away in a box, untouched and unappreciated through many a move and milestone.

But what if it was possible to enjoy this most special of dresses again and again? With the help of bridal designer and heirloomreconstruction expert Lovell Cox, it is. Less than two years after she reconstructed her first dress, the 27-year-old Coppell native and founder of Dallas-based design studio Lovellfaye has found her calling in reimagining wedding gowns from days gone by for modern brides.

The seeds of her business were planted at an early age. Lovell learned how to sew as a young girl and studied textile and apparel management at the University of Missouri. Though she’d loved wedding dresses as a child—“When I was 5, I had a bridal-themed birthday party,” she laughs—she worried the constraints of bridal design would feel limiting to her from a creative standpoint. It wasn’t until an internship in New York with the designer formerly known as Hayley Paige (now Cheval) that she knew bridal was where she wanted to be. “When I was interviewing, [Cheval] told me, ‘You’re making dresses for so much more than just a runway or a party—there’s so much meaning behind them,’ ” Lovell recalls.

“That’s when I really fell in love with the wedding industry.”

When her position was eliminated at the start of the pandemic, Lovell moved home and began working at Bridal Boutique in Lewisville, where she continued to hone her industry chops under the guidance of owners Amy Hidalgo and Carrie Berend Magliaro.

She started designing dresses for engaged friends and mothers of the brides on the side. But it was in May 2022, when two friends approached her about updating their mothers’ dresses for their own wedding festivities, that she found her niche. She posted the finished creations on TikTok, where they quickly went viral. “I had seen it done by different places, but I never really saw anyone that just specialized in reconstructing,” Lovell says. “I pivoted my whole business.”

She’s since reimagined more than 70 heirloom gowns into dresses, two-piece sets, pantsuits, purses, and more for modernday brides. Though in past generations, it wasn’t uncommon to wear your mother’s dress for your wedding day, Lovell says brides today “really want to have their own moment,” so the pieces she designs are often second outfits for a rehearsal dinner, bridal shower, or exit. These family gowns frequently come with emotional backstories attached—they were once owned by a mother or grandmother who has passed away, for instance—which has been impactful for the designer. “One of my brides, her family was in Hurricane Katrina, and her dress was one of the things that survived,” Lovell says. “Each dress has such a unique story.”

Though working with such sentimental pieces comes with a great deal of pressure—“It took a lot of trust in myself,” she admits— having a starting place is often helpful for brides, who may find designing from scratch overwhelming. The options, however, are limitless. She can use just a piece from a gown—like incorporating lace into a veil—or reimagine the entire dress into a more modern silhouette. She can size pieces up and down or even split a gown if there is more than one daughter wishing to use it. “There’s always a creative solution,” Lovell says.

Of course, there’s nothing that says her base material has to be vintage. Lovell has started to get requests from recently married brides wishing to turn their gowns into something they can wear again or to create pieces for their children—a bow or christening gown, perhaps. Having begun work for the next generation has her looking forward to the future. “Brides I’m reconstructing their mom’s dress for now have already told me, ‘This has gotten me so excited for the moment I get to do this with my daughter,’” she says.

“I think it would be so cool to be around for that.” lovellfaye.co ❤

EL IZ A B E T H L AV IN

AFTER THE WEDDING

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Photo: @pa1kerg1eyphoto

Amplify the party; Ignite the fun Your wedding deserves nothing but the best! Choose LeForce Entertainment the industry leader in creating unforgettable moments.

@leforcedj I leforcedj.coml 214 302 8564

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RECEPTION SITES WE LOVE

INDOOR + OU TDOOR + DESTINATION

GLENEAGLES COUNTRY CLUB @gleneaglescountryclub| gleneaglesclub. com | 972.867.6666 Cost Per Person: Varies Capacity: 300 seated; 400 cocktail Outside Catering Permitted: Specialty cakes and cuisine only Bar: Full bar Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: Varies

ROSEWOOD MANSION ON TURTLE CREEK

ROSEWOOD MANSION ON TURTLE CREEK Cost Per Person: Varies Capacity: Pavilion and Promenade: 260 seated; 300 reception, The Mansion Lawn: 400 seated; 500 reception Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Full bar Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: Varies @rosewoodmansionturtlecreek | rosewoodhotels.com/mansion | 214.520.5824 THE ADOLPHUS D.E.C ON DRAGON @theadolpus | adolphus.com | 214.742.8200 @decondragon | decondragon.com | Cost Per Person: Varies 972.400.2242 Capacity: 450 in Grand Ballroom Cost Per Person: Varies Outside Catering Permitted: No Capacity: 150 seated; 400 cocktail Bar: Full bar Outside Catering Permitted: No Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes, Seasonal Bar: Full bar Server-To-Guest Ratio: Varies Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:15 THE DALLAS ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL GARDEN D’VINE GRACE VINEYARD @dallasarboretumweddings | dallasarbore- dvinegrace.com | 214.901.2311 tum.org | weddings@dallasarboretum.org | Cost per person: From $160+ 214.515.6569 Capacity: 2,000 Cost Per Person: Varies per venue Outside Catering Permitted: Venue apCapacity: 350-500 proved caterers only Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Full bar, speciality bars Bar: Yes Outdoor Reception Facilities: Outdoor cerOutdoor Reception Facilities: Four indoor emony and reception spaces available reception options and 18 outdoor Server-To-guest ratio: 1:15 ceremony locations 102

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HALL ARTS HOTEL @hallartshotel | hallartshotel.com | 214.953.1717 Cost Per Person: $75-$200 Capacity: 150 Outside Catering Permitted: Yes, for religious and cultural dietary needs Bar: Full bar Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:20 HALL OF LIGHTS @halloflightsevents| halloflights.com | 817.706.5681 Cost Per Person: Varies Capacity: 350 seated; 500 cocktail Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Yes Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1: 15 HILTON DALLAS/PARK CITIES @hiltonsallasparkcities | dallasparkcities.hilton. com | 214.368.0400 Cost Per Person: $65 Capacity: Up to 350 reception Outside Catering Permitted: Yes, for cultural events Bar: Full bar Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:50 HOTEL CRESCENT COURT @mycrescentwedding | crescentcourt.com | 214.871.3211 Cost Per Person: From $180 Capacity: 150-175 plated; 300 reception style Outside Catering Permitted: Yes, for religious and cultural dietary needs Bar: Full bar Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:20 DWEDDINGS.COM

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THE MASON DALLAS @themasondallas | themasondallas.com | 214.730.0005 Cost Per Person: Varies Capacity: 200 person dining; 400 person cocktail party Outside Catering Permitted: Yes; preferred caterers list Bar: Yes Outdoor Reception Facilities: No Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:8 NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER @nasherevents | nashersculpturecenter. org | 214.242.5182 Cost Per Person: Space rental $6,000$15,000, no membership required Capacity: 40-200 seated; 300+ standing (outdoors); 180 seated (indoors) Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Full bar Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: Varies

THE ADOLPHUS

THE JOULE @thejouledallas | thejouledallas.com | 214.748.1300 Cost Per Person: From $175+ Capacity: 500 Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Full bar Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:10

NUVO ROOM @nuvoroom | nuvoroom.com | 469.453.4563 Cost Per Person: $50-$150 Capacity: 250 Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Full bar & BYOB Outdoor Reception Facilities: No Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:25

THE PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE @pmns_events | perotmuseum.org | 214.428.5555 ext. 3500 Cost Per Person: Varies Capacity: 15-1,200 Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Full bar Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes REFLECTIONS VENUE & GARDENS @reflectionsplano | reflectionsplano. com | 972.633.9595 Cost Per Person: $60-$250 Capacity: 200 Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Bar packages available Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:25 RENAISSANCE DALLAS AT PLANO LEGACY WEST HOTEL @renplanowest | marriott.com/dalbp | 469.925.1800 Cost Per Person: Varies Capacity: 820 banquet; 1200 reception Outside Catering Permitted: Yes Bar: Yes Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:30

JW MARRIOT DALLAS ARTS DISTRICT @jwmarriottdallas | jwmarriottdallasartsdistrict.com | 214.347.9499 Cost Per Person: Varies Capacity: 400 banquet; 480 reception Outside Catering Permitted: Yes Bar: Yes Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:30 THE LAS COLINAS RESORT Cost per Person $200+ per person Capacity 400 Outside Catering Permitted? For religious reasons, with approval and required insurance Bar: Bar packages available Outdoor Reception Facilities? Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio 1:20

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RECEPTION SITES WE LOVE

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cont.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DALLAS @ritzcarltondallas | ritzcarlton.com/en/ hotels/dalrz-the-ritz-carlton-dallas/weddings/ | 214.922.0200 Cost per person: From $260 Capacity: 450 guests seated with dance floor; 900 guests cocktail party Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Full bar service is available Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-guest ratio: 1:10 TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS @texasdiscoverygardens | 214.702.5013 Cost Per Person:Customizable Capacity: 300 Outside Catering: No. Select from our Approved Catering List Bar: Yes Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: Varies THOMPSON DALLAS @thompsonhoteldallas | thompsondallas. com | 469.726.4107 Cost Per Person: From $195+ Capacity: 650 seated Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Full bar Outdoor Reception Facilities: No Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:10

WARWICK MELROSE HOTEL @warwickmelrose | warwickhotels.com | 214.521.5151 Cost Per Person: Varies Capacity: Up to 500 Bar: Yes Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:20 WESTIN DALLAS DOWNTOWN @westindallasdowntown | westindallasdowntown.com | 972.584.6650 Cost Per Person: $50-$175 Capacity: Pecan Ballroom: 350 seated, dancefloor; Bluebonnet Ballroom: 150 seated with dancefloor; Willow Pavilion: 150 with dancefloor; Porch on Main: 100 seated; Grill & Vine Restaurant: 80 seated; Presidential Suite: up to 20 guests Outside Catering Permitted: Yes, based on religious reasons, with proper insurance. Bar: Full bar Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: Varies WESTIN GALLERIA DALLAS @westingalleriadallas | thewestingalleriadallas. com | 972.934.9494 Cost Per Person: $60 Capacity: 10-600 Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Full bar available Outdoor Reception Facilities: No Server-To-Guest Ratio: Varies

WESTIN IRVING CONVENTION CENTER @westinirvingcc | westinirvingcc.com | 972.505.2900 Cost Per Person: Varies Capacity: Up to 600 Outside Catering Permitted: For religious reasons, with approval and required insurance Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:20 VIRGIN HOTELS DALLAS @virginhotelsdalweddings | virginhotels. com/dallas/ | 469.359.7700 Cost per person: Varies Capacity: Up to 300 Outside catering permitted: No Bar: Full bar services Outdoor reception facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: Varies VOUV EVENT SPACE @vouvdallas | vouvdallas.com | 972.598.0594 Cost Per Person: $50-$150 Capacity: 350 seated; 700 cocktail Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Bar packages available Outdoor Reception Facilities: No Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:25 OMNI PGA RESORT FRISCO @omnipgafriscoresort | omnipgafriscoresort.com | 469.305.4545 Cost Per Person: From $240 Capacity: Up to 1,000 Outside Catering Permitted: Yes, for cultural and religious reason with a perperson remuneration Bar: Yes, no outside beverage permitted Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:15

THE VIRGIN HOTELS DALLAS

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D E S T I N AT I O N VEN U ES WE LOVE CLOUDLAND @staycloudland | 1 888.391.1148 Cost Per Person: Pricing starting at $180 per person plus tax and service charge; additional rental fees applies Capacity: 12-350 indoor; 20500 outdoor Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Yes Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes, Creag Courtyard and Cloudland Event Lawn

EAU PALM BEACH RESORT & SPA @eaupalmbeach | eaupalmbeach.com | 561.533.6000 Cost Per Person: $345-$595 per person Capacity: 400 Outside Catering Permitted: No Bar: Yes Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: Varies HOTEL BENNETT

FREDRICKSBURG CONVENTION AND VISITOR BUREAU @visitfredtx | visitfredricksburgtx. com | 830.997.6523 Cost Per Person: Customized for event Capacity: Small to large Outside Catering Permitted: Yes Bar: Yes Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes HOTEL BENNETT hotelbennett.com | 843.990.5400 Cost Per Person: $265 for Plated and $275 for Stations Capacity: 250 guests Outside Catering Permitted: No OMNI BARTON CREEK RESORT & SPA @OmniBartonCreek | OmniHotels. com/BartonCreek | 512.329.4000 Cost Per Person: $120-250+ per person for food and beverage; Minimums apply per space ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA

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Capacity: Up to 1000 Outside Catering Permitted: With the exception of your wedding cake, all food and beverage must be provided by the resort. Exceptions may be made for ethnic weddings that follow outside catering guidelines. Food and Beverage minimums apply.

Bar: Yes, bar packages available Outdoor Reception Facilities: Hill Country Pavilion and Lawn; Rock House Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:20 ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA @rwmayakoba | rosewoodhotels. com/mayakoba | 844.367.7709 Cost Per Person: Varies Capacity: 2-300 (depends on venue) Outside Catering Permitted: Depends on venue Bar: Yes Outdoor Reception Facilities: Yes Server-To-Guest Ratio: 1:8

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

r ehe a r s a l di n n er si t e s R E S TA U R A N T

OVERVIEW

S E AT S

P R I V AT E

OUTDOOR

The Adolphus

Say “I Do” at one of the most beautiful places in Dallas.

With its incomparable services and amenities, The Adolphus is one of Dallas’ most romantic wedding destinations. Whether it be an intimate exchange of vows or extravagant celebration with 300 of your closest friends and family, we offer the perfect space to celebrate your wedding celebrations.

300

YES

YES

250

YES

YES

200

YES

YES

300

YES

YES

Paula Fenner | 1321 Commerce Street, Dallas | 214.651.3563 | PFenner@adolphus.com

Hotel or a dining destination? We’re a little of both actually. With more than 30,000-square-feet of indoor/ outdoor space and restaurants, The Joule is the ideal home for your next event. From expansive ballrooms to penthouse terraces, our spaces are as functional as they are fashionable. For a more intimate event, toast to your memories with us in one of our restaurants Sassetta, CBD Provisions or Midnight Rambler.

The Joule

Alexis Emert | 1530 Main Street, Dallas | 214.261.4496 | aemert@thejouledallas.com

Set the scene for love at our stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Dallas. Dazzling skyline views, luxe accommodations, and striking indoor-outdoor spaces make Virgin Hotels Dallas the picture perfect rehearsal dinner destination. Intimate fête to grand affair, we’ve got you covered with customizable rehearsal dinner menus, built-in audio-visuals, and all the essentials to set your table.

Virgin Hotels Dallas

Joanna Tran | 1445 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas| 469.359.7700 | virginhotels.com/dallas

For unique and memorable wedding celebrations, the Warwick Melrose Hotel captures both the glamour and romance of yesteryear, and the excitement of tomorrow.

This iconic hotel features both indoor and outdoor venues for your rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception. Our remarkable blend of tradition and sophistication ensures an unforgettable setting for your special occasion, whether it be for an intimate or grand affair. The Warwick Melrose remains a timeless landmark where precious moments turn into lasting memories.

Warwick Melrose

Abby Rodriguez | 3015 Oak Lawn Ave Dallas| 214.224.3153 | arodriguez@warwickhotels.com | warwickhotels.com

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HELLO@SUGARBEESWEETS.COM WWW.SUGARBEESWEETS.COM ARLINGTON, TEXAS 817.903.8661

TH E A DVEN T U R E B E G I NS Design your moment of a lifetime at The Westin Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas.

As one of the most meaningful days in their lives, weddings are important to our guests. So we commit to making this day special through intuitive service, thoughtful touches, enriching experiences and vibrant venues.

To begin planning your Westin Wedding call 972.505.2900 or visit www.westinirvingcc.com

400 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, TX 75039

©2021 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All names, marks and logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

cust om c at er er s C AT E R E R

DESCRIPTION

Beyond the Box Catering

Beyond the Box Weddings offers full-service catering, including custom menus, bar services, specialty rentals, and professional staffing. With 20 years of experience, we are confident in providing exceptional service for all style and size events. From start to finish, we work with you to bring your vision to life and ensure your special day is everything you imagined it to be and more!

Culinary Art Catering

Full service award-winning Culinary Art Catering specializes in contemporary, cutting-edge presentations and chef-inspired menus. Whether you are planning an event at one of our exclusive venues or the location of your choice, our professional and courteous staff will cater to your every need.

Gil’s Elegant Catering

Since 1983, Gil’s Elegant Catering has devoted itself to making your special occasion a delicious success. It’s truly the pleasure of this catering team to make certain that each couple’s entire event is a distinct reflection of their personality. From traditional and elegant to authentic Texas-style cuisine, Gil’s will create unique, customized menus tailored to your individual tastes and budget.

The Joule Off-site Catering

Our award-winning catering team can execute the perfect event with custom menus and cocktails, whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party or a gala. Clients seeking an iconic destination for their next event should look to The Eye at The Joule, which is managed by the Off-Site Catering team.

Red Maple Catering

Red Maple is a luxury private chef and catering company with locations in Dallas and Vail, Colorado. At Red Maple Catering we ensure one of the most beautiful days in your life is all about you and your spouse…and then we make the food epic. We customize every step to reflect your perfect day, and match the beauty of your wedding with the food and cocktail experiences that we create for you.

Wendy Krispin Caterer

With 30 plus years of catering weddings under her belt, Wendy Krispin is highly-respected in the industry for her elegant and delectable spreads. Through food and drink, Krispin wants to partner with you to create not only a custom menu but an immersive experience that matches your vision no matter the location.

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C O N TA C T

MARCI WENRICH mwenrich@foodbeyondthebox.com 214.828.2228 btbweddings.com

VIVIAN MORGAN info@culinaryartcatering.com 972.744.0660 culinaryartcatering.com

JACQUELINE ALBERS jackie@gilselegantcatering.com 214.717.3142 gilselegantcatering.com

DEEPA TOBAR dtobar@thejouledallas.com 214.261.4520 thejouledallas.com/cateringevents/ catering

ASHLEY BUNCH ashley@redmaplecatering.com 512.574.8555 redmaplecatering.com

WENDY KRISPIN info@wendykrispincaterer.com 214.748.5559 wendykrispincaterer.com

DWEDDINGS.COM

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ATLANTA

BALTIMORE

CHARLESTON DALLAS HOUSTON

BATON ROUGE

CHARLOTTE

DENVER

FREEHOLD

INDIANAPOLIS

MILWAUKEE

NEW YORK CITY ORANGE COUNTY SACRAMENTO ST. LOUIS One July Photography

TAMPA

GRAND RAPIDS

KANSAS CITY

LAS VEGAS LONG ISLAND MIAMI

BIRMINGHAM

CHICAGO CLEVELAND

LAFAYETTE

MADISON

MEMPHIS

NASHVILLE

OAKBROOK TERRACE ORLANDO

SAN FRANCISCO WASHINGTON D.C.

GREENVILLE

KNOXVILLE

LOS ANGELES

MOBILE

BOSTON COLUMBIA

NEW ORLEANS

OKLAHOMA CITY

PHILADELPHIA

RALEIGH

SCOTTSDALE

SHREVEPORT

WEST HARTFORD

WESTPORT

bellabridesmaids.com

TAMYTHA CAMERON PHOTOGRAPHY

6625 SNIDER PLAZA, DALLAS, TEXAS 75205 214.363.1871 | MISTERTUXEDODALLAS.COM

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WEDDING & EVENT PLANNING J U L I A N @ J U L I A N L E AV ER .CO M | 2 14.9 0 8.74 3 9 | J U L I A N L E AV ER .CO M | @ J U L I A N L E AV ER

Engagement Party. Rehearsal Dinner.

Ceremony. Reception.

WEDDINGS down to a SCIENCE

Photography by John Cain Photography

EVENTS@PEROTMUSEUM.ORG 214.428.5555 ext. 3500 @PMNS_EVENTS

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Elizabeth Plumer & Tyler Jackson July 1, 2023 Jennifer Yarbro Photography DWEDDINGS.COM

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BRIDAL GOWNS, ATTENDANT ATTIRE & MEN’S FORMALWEAR BELLA BRIDESMAIDS 214.999.9311 136 Glass St., Ste. 150, Dallas Bellabridesmaids.com | @bellabridesmaids

BESIDE THE BRIDE 972.219.8500 125 N. Mill St., Lewisville besidethebride.net | @besidethebride

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE OF LEWISVILLE 972.219.8500 143 W. Main St., Lewisville bridalboutiquelewisville.com | @bblewisville

THE BRIDAL SALON AT NEIMAN MARCUS DOWNTOWN 214.573.2663 1618 Main St., Dallas neimanmarcus.com | @neimanmarcusbridal

LELA ROSE BRIDAL 214.599.6283 69 Highland Park Village, Dallas lelarose.com | @lelarosebridal

LULU’S BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

STARDUST CELEBRATIONS

214.871.9610 1215 Dragon St., Dallas lulusbridal.com | @lulusbrides

972.781.1619 6464 W. Plano Pkwy., Plano stardustcelebrations.com | @stardustbrides

MOLLY’S BRIDAL CLOSET

THE FITTING ROOM

972.388.5230 1202 Dragon St., Ste. 103, Dallas mollysbridalcloset.com | @mollysbridalclosetbrides

214.520.3600 4111 Lomo Alto Dr., Dallas thefittingroomdallas.com | @thefittingroomdallas

MISTER TUXEDO

WARREN BARRÓN

214.363.1871 6625 Snider Plz., Dallas mistertuxedodallas.com | @mistertuxedodallas

214.526.8400 5600 W. Lovers Lane, Ste. 150, Dallas warrenbarron.com | @warrenbarronbridal

PATSY’S, A BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

WB ALTERATIONS

214.528.1227 2933 N. Henderson Ave., Dallas patsysbridal.com | @patsysbridalboutique

214.434.1511 5600 West Lovers Lane, Ste. 211, Dallas wbalterations.com | @wbalterations

PATTI FLOWERS DESIGN STUDIO

CAKES

214.369.7027 3624 Fairmount St., Dallas pattiflowers.com | @pattiflowers

FANCY CAKES BY LAUREN

STANLEY KORSHAK BRIDAL 214.871.3611 500 Crescent Court, Ste. 142, Dallas skbridalsalon.com | @stanleykorshakbride

lauren@fancycakesbylauren.com 11111 N. Central Expy., Ste. D, Dallas fancycakesbylauren.com | @fancycakesbylauren

LOFT 22 CAKES 682.841.1771 106 E. Daggett Ave., Fort Worth loft22cakes.com | @loft22cakes

SUGAR BEE SWEETS 817.903.8661 201 N. East St., Arlington sugarbeesweets.com | @sugarbeesweets

THAT’S THE CAKE 817.617.2599 2800 Forestwood Dr., Ste. 118, Arlington thatsthecake.com | @thatsthecake

CATERERS BEYOND THE BOX CATERING 214.828.2228 2544 West Commerce St., Dallas foodbeyondthebox.com | @beyondthebox_catering

BLUE FIRE CATERING 214.699.5097 bluefirecatering.com | @bluefiretotalcatering

CULINARY ART CATERING 972.744.0660 4241 Sigma Rd., Ste. A, Dallas culinaryartcatering.com | @culinaryart1 Janelle Brandom & Devin McCarthy April 21, 2023 John Cain Photography 112

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DFW BARTENDING 817.460.7280 2004 E Randol Mill Rd., Ste. 502, Arlington dfwbartending.com | @dfwbartending DWEDDINGS.COM

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FERAH CATERING & EVENTS

LIMELIGHT

LILIUM FLORAL DESIGN

281.773.4690 355 N. Carroll Ave., Southlake ferahcatering.com | @ferahcatering

972.416.2019 ecbands.com/limelight | @limelightdfw

817.481.1565 | 214.509.6630 4800 Colleyville Blvd., Colleyville liliumflorals.com | @liliumfloraldesign

GIL’S ELEGANT CATERING

972.416.2019 ecbands.com/downtown-fever |@downtownfever

972.237.0353 1001 MacArthur Blvd., Grand Prairie gilselegantcatering.com | @gilscatering

HEART TO HEART CATERING 972.327.3111 4252 Spring Valley Rd., Farmers Branch hearttoheartcatering.com | @hearttoheartcatering

KNIFE & FAULK 214.749.0299 9800 Preston Rd., Dallas knifeandfaulk.com | @knifeandfaulk

MAMA’S MEDICINE 321 W. Main St., Grand Prairie mamasmedicine.com| areta@mamas-medicine.com | @Firehousegp |@mamasmedicine.cocktails

MI DIA FROM SCRATCH CATERING 817.421.4277 1295 S Main St., Grapevine midiafromscratch.com/catering | @MiDiaFromScratchCatering

DOWNTOWN FEVER

PARTY MACHINE

SAGE FINE FLOWERS 972.768.9673 sagefinedesign.com | @sagefineflowers

972.416.2019 ecbands.com/party-machine | @partymachineband

HEALTH & BEAUTY

ELEVATION

865.242.4276 dollsociety.com | @dollsociety_

972.416.2019 ecbands.com/elevation | @elevationpartyband

FLORAL & EVENT DESIGNERS

DOLL SOCIETY

ELAN MAKEUP STUDIO 214.370.3333 5639 Dyer St., Dallas elanmakeup.com | @elanmakeupstudio

BLUSHINGTON BLOOMS 940.799.5159 7664 Pebble Dr., Fort Worth | 3525 Cedar Springs Rd., Ste. 201, Dallas blushingtonblooms.com | @blushingtonblooms

BRANCHING OUT EVENTS 214.741.3807 127 Leslie St., Dallas branchingoutevents.com | @branchingoutevents

FACES BY FIONA 469.981.3021 1900 Jay Ell Dr., Richardson facesbyfiona.com | @facesbyfiona

MARA’S MED SPA 469.730.3333 2222 McKinney Ave., Ste. 120, Dallas marasmedspa.com | @marasmedspa

VESTALS CATERING 972.803.3806 1403 Dragon St., Dallas vestalscatering.com | @vestalscatering

WENDY KRISPIN CATERER 214.748.5559 528 S Hall St., Dallas wendykrispincaterer.com | @wendykrispincaterer

WINEWOOD GRILL 817.421.0200 1265 S Main St., Grapevine thewinewood.com | @winewoodgrill

ENTERTAINMENT ABSOLUTE ENTERTAINMENT 214.871.9900 PO Box 567929, Dallas absolutedfw.com | @absolutedfw

EMERALD CITY BAND 972.416.2019 emeraldcityband.com | @emeraldcityband | JERRY MOWERY DJ 469.583.6541 jerrymowery.com | @jerrymowery2 KARISCONCEPTS.COM | @KARISCONCEPTS

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MY FABULOUS FACES

MATTHEW TRENT

214.789.8379 myfabulousfaces.com | @myfabfaces

214.871.9170 8383 Preston Center Plaza, Ste. 120, Dallas matthewtrent.com | @matthewtrentjewelry

REVISION SKINCARE hello@revisionskincare.com revisionskincare.com | @revisionskincare

MEGAN THORNE FINE JEWELS

JEWELRY

817.920.7623 120 St. Louis Ave., Ste. 141, Fort Worth meganthorne.com | @meganthornejewels

BACHENDORF’S

LIVE ILLUSTRATIONS

214.692.8400 8400 Preston Rd., Plaza at Preston Center, Dallas bachendorfs.com | @bachendorfs

ACA EVENT DESIGNS

BACHENDORF’S 972.392.9900 Galleria Dallas, Level 1, Dallas bachendorfs.com | @bachendorfs

BACHENDORF’S 817.806.0303 5175 Monahans Ave., The Shops at Clearfork, Fort Worth bachendorfs.com | @bachendorfs

RENTALS & DECOR ABSOLUTE LIGHTING 214.871.9900 absolutelightingdfw.com | @absolutelighting

BBJ LA TAVOLA 972.392.3233 150 Turtle Creek Blvd., Ste. 209B, Dallas bbjlatavola.com | @bbjlatavola

CALLISTO SOUND & LIGHTING

214.676.8943 acaeventdesigns.com | @acaeventdesigns

214.438.4828 10557 Metric Dr., Dallas callistosound.com | @callistosl

PHOTOGRAPHERS

PARTY! DALLAS

PEREZ PHOTOGRAPHY

214.635.3710 1174 Quaker St., Dallas partydallas.com | @partydallasrentals

214.707.7729 3525 Cedar Springs Rd., Ste. 104, Dallas perezweddings.com | @perezweddings

THE PARTY DEPT.

stephaniebrazzle.com | @stephaniebrazzle

817.800.4444 3860 Hemphill St., Fort Worth ezpartytime.shop | @the.party.dept

EISEMAN JEWELS

MOTUS

214.369.6100 8687 N. Central Expy., Ste. 514, Dallas eisemanjewels.com | @eisemanjewels

469.340.3806 7411 Hines Pl., Ste. 123, Dallas motusbooth.com | @motusred

PARTY RENT DFW

STEPHANIE BRAZZLE PHOTOGRAPHY

817.658.6504 7512 Pebble Dr., Fort Worth partyrentdfw.com | @partyrentdfw

STATIONERS 5 BY 7 DESIGNS 214.538.2800 13740 Midway Rd., Ste. 611, Dallas 5by7designs.com | @5by7designs

CALLIGRAPHIC ARTS DESIGN STUDIO 214.522.4731 6440 North Central Expy., Ste. 403, Dallas calligraphicarts.com | @calligraphicarts

NEEDLE IN A HAYSTACK 214.528.2850 6911 Preston Rd., Dallas needleinahaystackdallas.com | @needlenhaystack

PAPER AFFAIR 214.654.9545 5710 W. Lovers Ln., Dallas paperaffairdallas.com | @paperaffairdallas

PAPER AFFAIR 972.398.8888 5809 Preston Rd., Plano paperaffairdallas.com | @paperaffairdallas Madie Cook & Max Kyser July 7, 2023 Rebecca Tripp Photo 114

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PAPER AFFAIR 469.362.5400 6959 Lebanon Rd., Frisco paperaffairdallas.com | @paperaffairdallas DWEDDINGS.COM

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MAGNOLIA BOONE PAPERIE magnoliaboonepaperie.com | @magnoliaboonepaperie

ST. MICHAEL’S WOMAN’S EXCHANGE 214.521.3862 5 Highland Park Village, Dallas smwexchange.com | @smwexchange

WEDDING CONSULTANTS AFTER YES 214.542.0668 903 N. Bowser Rd., Ste. 350, Richardson afteryesweddings.com | @afteryes

ALEXA KAY EVENTS 630.212.9951 alexakayevents.com | @alexakayevents

CRYSTAL FRASIER WEDDINGS 972.342.7960 crystalfrasier.com | @crystalfrasierweddings

JESS WEGNER EVENTS 817.247.3576 jesswegnerevents.com | @jesswegnerevents

JULIAN LEAVER EVENTS 214.908.7439 julianleaver.com | @julianleaver

Caroline Cayot & Benjamin Hopper July 29, 2023 Megan Kay Photography

KARIS CONCEPTS 214.592.7772 4044 Buena Vista St., Apt. 111, Dallas karisconcepts.com | @karisconcepts

LORRAINE TOMAS 214.751.8053 1811 E. Levee Dr., Dallas lorrainetomas.com | @lorrainetomasweddings

SARA FAY EGAN EVENTS 214.213.0122 sarafayeganevents.com | @sarafayeganevents

SARABETH EVENTS 214.207.6081 215 W. College St., 2nd fl., Grapevine sarabethevents.com | @sarabethevents

knots tied. perfect days made.

We love a good love story.

Let us be a part of yours.

Book your wedding at Hilton Dallas/Park Cities for bonus offers like complimentary ceremony space and a champagne toast!

SIGNIFICANT EVENTS OF TEXAS 214.783.7310 17618 Davenport Rd., Ste. 1, Dallas significanteventsoftexas.com | @significanteventsoftexas

SOCIAL GRACES WEDDINGS AND EVENTS 214.808.1043 socialgracesdallas.com | @socialgracesdallas

214 368 0400 DALPC_Sales@hilton.com

A STYLISH SOIREE

5954 Luther Lane Dallas, TX 75225 dallasparkcities.hilton.com hilton.com

214.862.2808 astylishsoiree.com | @astylishsoireedallas DWEDDINGS.COM

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TODD EVENTS 214.749.0400 1174 Quaker St., Dallas toddevents.com | @toddevents

TOP TIER EVENT RENTALS

D’VINE GRACE VINEYARD

HILTON PARK CITIES

214.901.2311 3747 Grace Ranch Trl., McKinney dvinegrace.com | @dvinegracevineyard

214.368.0400 5954 Luther Ln., Dallas dallasparkcities.hilton.com | @hiltondallasparkcities

214.819.4556 7715 Sovereign Row, Dallas top-tier.co| @toptiereventrentals

FAIRMONT DALLAS

HOTEL CRESCENT COURT

214.720.5270 1717 N. Akard St., Dallas fairmont.com/dallas | @fairmontdallas

214.871.3211 400 Crescent Ct., Dallas crescentcourt.com | @mycrescentwedding

WEDDINGS BY STARDUST

GLENEAGLES COUNTRY CLUB

HOTEL DROVER

972.867.6666 5401 W Park Blvd., Plano gleneaglesclub.com | @gleneaglescountryclub

817.755.5557 200 Mule Alley Dr., Fort Worth hoteldrover.com | @hoteldrover

HALL ARTS HOTEL

THE JOULE

214.953.1717 1717 Leonard St., Dallas hallartshotel.com | @hallartshotel

214.748.1300 1530 Main St., Dallas thejouledallas.com | @thejouledallas

HILTON DALLAS/PLANO GRANITE PARK

JW MARRIOT DALLAS ARTS DISTRICT

469.353.5000 5805 Granite Pkwy., Plano dallasplanogranitepark.hilton.com | @hiltongranitepark

214.347.9499 800 North Harwood St., Dallas jwmarriottdallasartsdistrict.com

972.781.1619 6464 W. Plano Pkwy., Plano weddingsbystardust.com | @weddingsbystardust

VENUES, RECEPTION & REHEARSAL DINNER SITES THE ADOLPHUS HOTEL 214.742.8200 1321 Commerce St., Dallas adolphus.com | @theadolphus

DALLAS ARBORETUM 214.515.6569 8617 Garland Rd., Dallas dallasarboretum.org |@thedallasarboretum

KIMPTON PITTMAN HOTEL 469.498.2535 2551 Elm Street, Dallas pittmanhoteldallas.com | @ pittmanhoteldallas

THE LAS COLINAS RESORT 972.717.0700 Ext. 2624 4150 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving lascolinasresortdallas.com | @lcresortdallas

LAZY S HACIENDA 817.358.5037 410 Weaver Ln., Weatherford lazyshacienda.com| @lazyshacienda

THE MASON DALLAS 214.730.0005 115 S. Beckley Ave., Dallas themasondallas.com | @themasondallas

NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER 214.242.5182 2001 Flora St., Dallas nashersculpturecenter.com | @nasherevents

NUVO ROOM 469.453.4563 4241 Sigma Rd., Ste. B, Dallas nuvoroom.com | @nuvoroom

ON THE LEVEE

Kaitlin Dorey & Andrew Winterstein March 18, 2023 Carter Rose Photography 116

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972.483.2507 1108 Quaker St., Dallas onthelevee.com | @onthelevee

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OMNI PGA RESORT FRISCO

VOUV EVENT SPACE

469.305.4545 4341 PGA Pkwy., Frisco omnipgafriscoresort.com | @omnipgafriscoresort

972.598.0594 4445 Sigma Rd., Dallas vouvdallas.com | @vouvdallas

THE PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE

WARWICK MELROSE HOTEL

214.756.5758 2201 N. Field St., Dallas perotmuseum.org | @pmns_events

TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS

214.521.5151 3015 Oak Lawn Ave., Dallas warwickhotels.com | @warwickmelrose

WESTIN DALLAS DOWNTOWN

214.702.5013 3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Dallas txdg.org/wedding | @texasdiscoverygardens

972.584.6650 1201 Main St., Dallas westindallasdowntown.com | @westindallasdowntown

REFLECTIONS VENUE & GARDENS

WESTIN GALLERIA DALLAS

972.633.9595 1901 E. Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano reflectionsplano.com | @reflectionsplano

972.934.9494 13340 Dallas Pkwy., Dallas thewestingalleriadallas.com | @westingalleriadallas

RENAISSANCE DALLAS AT PLANO LEGACY WEST HOTEL 469.925.1800 6007 Legacy Dr., Plano renaissanceplanohotel.com | @renplanwest

WESTIN IRVING CONVENTION CENTER 972.505.2900 400 W Las Colinas Blvd., Dallas westinirvingcc.com | @westinirvingcc

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DALLAS

WESTIN DALLAS STONEBRIAR GOLF RESORT & SPA

214.299.0200 2121 McKinney Ave., Dallas ritzcarlton.com/dallas | @ritzcarltondallas

972.668.8784 1549 Legacy Dr., Frisco westinstonebriar.com | @thewestinstonebriar

ROSEWOOD MANSION ON TURTLE CREEK

DESTINATIONS CLOUDLAND 1 888.391.1148 43 Cloudland Drive, Rising Fawn, GA staycloudland.com| @staycloudland

EAU PALM BEACH RESORT & SPA 561.533.6000 100 South Ocean Blvd., Manalapan, FL eaupalmbeach.com | @eaupalmbeach

FREDRICKSBURG CVB 830.997.6523 Fredricksburg, TX @visitfredtx | vistifredricksburgtx.com/weddings

HOTEL BENNETT 843.990.5400 404 King St., Charleston, SC hotelbennett.com | @hotelbennett

OMNI BARTON CREEK RESORT & SPA 512.329.4000 8212 Barton Club Dr., Austin omnihotels.com/bartoncreek | @omnibartoncreek

ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA 877.737.7538 Playa del Carmen, MX rosewood.com/en/mayakoba-riviera-maya | @rwmayakoba

214.520.5824 2821 Turtle Creek Blvd., Dallas rosewoodhotels.com/mansion | @rosewoodmansionturtlecreek

SOUTHFORK RANCH 972.442.7800 3700 Hogge Rd., Parker southforkranch.com | @southforkranch

TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS 214.702.5013 3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Dallas txdg.org/wedding | @texasdiscoverygardens

THOMPSON DALLAS 469.726.4107 205 N. Akard St., Dallas thompsondallas.com | @thompsonhoteldallas

TOWER CLUB DALLAS 214.220.0403 1601 Elm St., 48th Fl., Dallas tower-dallas.com | @towerclubdallas

VIRGIN HOTELS DALLAS 469.359.7700 1445 Turtle Creek Blvd., Dallas virginhotels.com/dallas | @virginhotelsdal DWEDDINGS.COM

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L I N D S E Y S H E A P H OTO G R A P H Y

Love Notes From advice and planning to inspiration and beyond, allow D Weddings’ newsletter to be your local resource guide.

SIGN UP AT:

dweddings.com/email

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wedding day resources ENTERTAINMENT

WEDDING PLANNERS

TRANSPORTATION

Downtown Fever Band....................... C2-1, 113

Crystal Frasier Weddings....................... 15, 115

Pinky’s Valet.................................................... 31

Elevation Band.................................... C2-1, 113

Jess Wegner Events................................38, 115

Emerald City Band.............................. C2-1, 113

Julian Leaver Events.............................. 110, 115

VENUES, RECEPTION & REHEARSAL DINNER SITES

LeForce Entertainment.................................. 101

Karis Concepts...................................... 113, 115

The Adolphus Hotel................4-5, 102, 106, 116

Limelight Band..................................... C2-1, 113

Lorraine Tomas Weddings......................22, 115

Dallas Arboretum &

Party Machine Band........................... C2-1, 113

Social Graces Weddings and Events....25, 115

Botanical Garden............................. 59, 102, 116

Weddings by Stardust............................ 10, 116

Gleneagles Country Club......................... 33, 116

BRIDAL & FORMALWEAR Bella Bridesmaids.................................109, 112

RENTALS

Bridal Boutique of Lewisville..................26, 112

Marquee Event Rentals................................... 37

Lela Rose Bridal...................................... 16, 112

The Party Dept............................................... 114

Mister Tuxedo........................................109, 112 Patsy’s, A Bridal Boutique...................... 14, 112 Stanley Korshak Bridal Salon................81, 102 Stardust Celebrations............................. 11, 112 Warren Barrón.......................................6-7, 112

CAKES & PASTRIES Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery.................... 107, 112

Arts District Hotel.............................. 45, 103, 116

EAU Palm Beach Resort & Spa..... 55, 105, 117

The Las Colinas Resort...................... 83, 103, 116

Explore Charleston.......................8-9, 105, 117

The Mason Dallas............................. 24, 103, 116

Rosewood Mayakoba................... 53, 105, 117

Nasher Sculpture Center.................. 18, 103, 116

FLORISTS Blushington Blooms................................. 27, 113

Lilium Floral Design.................................28, 113

Culinary Art Catering.................... 51, 108, 112

Sage Fine Flowers...................................34, 113

Knife & Faulk................................................. 113

WDR_page#.indd 119

Reflections Venue & Gardens.......... 103, 117, C3 The Ritz-Carlton Dallas.................... 60, 104, 117 Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek..41, 104, 117

Thompson Dallas............................... 49, 104, 117

Matthew Trent......................................... 21, 114

Virgin Hotels Dallas................. 65, 104, 106, 117

Stephanie Brazzle.................................. 19, 114

DWEDDINGS.COM

Nature and Science........................ 103, 110, 117

Bachendorf’s.......................................... 114, C4

Red Maple Catering.....................................108

Winewood Grill......................................94, 113

The Perot Museum of

Texas Discovery Gardens................. 36, 104, 117

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Wendy Krispin Caterer.........................108, 113

Nuvo Room...............................................103, 116

JEWELERS

Mi Dia From Scratch Catering...............94, 113

Vestals Catering ......................................17, 113

The Joule...........................29, 103, 106, 108, 116

Cloudland..................................12-13, 105, 117

Beyond the Box.....................................108, 112

Heart to Heart Catering.........................35, 113

Hotel Crescent Court........................ 46, 102, 116

JW Marriott Dallas

Branching Out Events........................... 2-3, 113

Gil’s Elegant Catering..........................108, 113

Hilton Dallas Park Cities................. 102, 115, 116

DESTINATION WEDDINGS

CATERERS

DFW Bartending............................................112

Hall Arts Hotel................................... 20, 102, 116

Vouv Event Space....................................104, 117 Warwick Melrose Dallas......... 23, 104, 106, 117 The Westin Dallas Downtown...........57, 104, 117

STATIONERS

The Westin Irving Convention

Magnolia Boone Paperie....................... 91, 115

Center at Las Colinas....................... 104, 107, 117

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JUST MARRIED

Jourdan Pratt Kai Zhang October 1, 2022

He Said/She Said When Kai Zhang was ready to propose to his girlfriend, Jourdan Pratt, he took her to the spot where they’d met three years earlier: a classroom on the Baylor University campus. “Our professor always did icebreaker questions to start each class, and we somehow always had the same answers,” remembers Jourdan. For the big moment, Kai played a video icebreaker he’d had their professor record: “Reflect on the happiest day of your life.”

When Jourdan accepted Kai’s proposal, they once again had matching answers—which were to be replaced only eight months later by their wedding. “It was absolutely the happiest, most joyful day of our lives,” says the bride of their French Farmhouse celebration, which included nods to Kai’s Chinese heritage. Here, they share the best and hardest parts of wedding planning—and the perks to renting a cool getaway car. —Jessica Otte

Jourdan: I asked friends who had recently been married what their “wedding hacks” were. I received budget templates, vendor discounts, registry tips, and lots of perks I wouldn’t have known about!

Kai: We designated a day each week to focus on only doing wedding-planning tasks together.

What was the hardest part about wedding planning?

Jourdan: I had a reality check when I realized that the vision I grew up thinking my wedding would look like was not feasible. For example, flowers are a lot more expensive than I thought, so I had to get creative with my vendors to find affordable options that still gave me the look I was going for.

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Kai: Evaluating each vendor, balancing the stress with work, and being emotionally supportive to my fiancée.

What stressed you out the most?

Jourdan: The seating chart and month-of tedious details were very overwhelming.

Kai: We had an eight-month engagement, so there was limited vendor availability and higher-than-expected quotes.

What was your most worthwhile wedding splurge?

Jourdan: A coffee cart that showed up during the reception. It was a major hit.

Kai: Renting an Audi R8 as our getaway car, because I was able to enjoy it the entire day!

Was there anything your spouse wanted that you weren’t sure about? How did it turn out?

Jourdan: Kai really wanted to write our own vows. I originally was not onboard, because it made me super nervous to read them in front of everyone.

But I’m really glad we did it—it was so meaningful and definitely the highlight of our ceremony.

Kai: Flowers were always a point of contention with us, because I still to this day don’t understand how flowers can be so expensive. Ultimately we were able to find a vendor who was accommodating for both of our preferences.

What would you do differently if you had to do it over again?

Jourdan: I would tell myself to just breathe! What matters is that the two of you are getting married. Nobody else cares if you chose black or ivory napkins, so just relax and enjoy the process.

Kai: I would have allocated

more of our budget to hiring second photography and videography shooters so we could capture more moments.

What was your biggest takeaway from the wedding-planning process?

Jourdan: Use your budget to make your big day a reflection of you as a couple. It doesn’t matter what will look the best on Instagram or what you see on TLC—it matters that your day feels like you.

Kai: Wedding planning is notorious for being stressful, but it’s an incredible opportunity for engaged couples to practice healthy communication and conflict resolution.

What was the most memorable moment from your wedding day?

Jourdan: I surprised my husband by concluding my vows in Mandarin. The moment

where he realized I was speaking in a different language—in his native language—will always hold a special place in my heart.

Kai: My beautiful bride finishing her vows in Mandarin Chinese—it turns out she had secretly been taking Chinese lessons so she could recite her closing vows in my native language in front of my Chinese relatives.

If you had one piece of advice for engaged or newly married couples, what would it be?

Jourdan: I highly recommend doing premarital counseling! It provides a great foundation to start your marriage on.

Kai: Understand that being married to someone is one of the greatest privileges in the world—you get the honor of having a front-row seat to watch someone else go through life.

K ENN A B U G PH OTO

What was the smartest thing you did while planning your wedding?

DWEDDINGS.COM

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A Daytime of Moments ... A Lifetime of Memories

1901 E Spring Creek Parkway Plano, Texas 75093 www.ReflectionsPlano.com (972)633-9595 Call or Text @ReflectionsPlano

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