Bride guide mag jan 2015

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE 2015

St. Johns, St. Augustine, Jacksonville & Ponte Vedra

The Bride’s Little Resource Guide

Local Inspirations & Ideas for Creating the Perfect Wedding Honeymoon Travel Tips

*Created Exclusively for Bridal Fantasy Events

Springtime in

Listmakers

PARIS

Photo by Robert Max Photography St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

Planning Calendar

1

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take

Î?

but by the moments that take our breath away

Over 40 years of offering distinctively handmade designs in gold and silver jewelry.

Commemorating marriage with collaboratively designed objects of adornment.

2

Located in historic St. Augustine, Florida 1118 Aviles Street www.joelbagnalgoldsmith.com 904.819.5838 shop GUIDE 904.614.4706 cell St. Johns Magazine BRIDE

Tie the Knot Catering & Jacksonville Bartending AffordAble CAtering by Chef Anthony PePe

Wedding Receptions

Owner & Executive Chef Anthony Pepe

Rehearsal Dinners

Catering to your taste & budget is our specialty

Engagement Parties Corporate Functions Complete Dinner Buffet $11.95 per guest

From Elegant to Country, We Have the Experience up to

$250 OFF our most popular wedding package #2

$1off per guest up to 250 guests *must present this ad at time of booking

www.tietheknotcatering.com

904.424.9993

St. Johns Magazine

www.jacksonvillebartending.com

BRIDE GUIDE

3

by Mary Fowler, Riverside Tours & Travel

Honeymoon Tips & Ideas

4

photo courtesy of Sandals

Did you know your honeymoon is the first time you travel together as husband and wife and one of the last things you book while planning your wedding?

days gone by. A Honeymoon Registry allows your friends and family tocontribute towards paying for your dream honeymoon.

As a specialist, it is my job to ensure your honeymoon or destination wedding is perfect. Riverside Tours and Travel is the only preferred Sandals agency in Northeast Florida and the only certified WeddingMoon Specialist in the area. We are 1 of only 90 agents in the world that is a Sandals Chairman’s Royal Member ensuring that you are matched to the right resort for your style and needs. What does this mean for you? I have access to the best resorts, prices and knowledge to ensure you get the best value for your dollar.

I have listed a few tips for your honeymoon below. Feel free to contact me for other tips and prices.

When should I book? It is always best to book your honeymoon early for three reasons; price, availability and a honeymoon registry. Booking early ensures the best value utilizing the early booking specials and allows you to make payments. The rooms that are the most sought after go quickly and settling for a room you would not have otherwise chosen puts a damper on your honeymoon.

Last, but certainly not least, is the Honeymoon Registry. Today, many couples live together before their wedding. With an established household, these couples are not in need of the usual gifts from

There are so many destinations...

How do I choose?

Every resort and destination has its own feel and style. Not every resort or destination is perfect for every couple so finding the best fit is an important part of the process. For instance, I ask my couples whether they prefer a laid back or active resort. Is a beach important or do you prefer a more mountainous view. Do you prefer a short non-stop flight or are you willing to fly a great distance to your perfect honeymoon. These are among the many questions I ask and it helps find the perfect location and resort.

St. Johns Magazine

My groom is handling the honeymoon. Can he call you?

The wedding is all about the bride and the honeymoon is all about the groom. More than half of my clients are grooms who love to spoil their brides. If your groom is handling the details, have him call me. I’ve been making heroes out of grooms for years!

To ensure he does a great job, give him some sort of idea of what you have in mind. With a little help from us, your honeymoon will be filled with delights you might never have thought of doing.

BRIDE GUIDE

Riverside Tours and Travel 904-568-7094 traveljacksonville@yahoo.com www.RiversideToursAndTravel.com

A Love Story Private Couples Massage & facials Suite

Pamper the Bride & Groom & forget the stress with a specialty massage package from Massage Green

• Bride & Groom • Mother/ Daughter • Bridal Showers

• Bachorlette Parties • Spa Parties for the Bridal Party

904-549-7535 2750 Racetrack Road, Suite 101, Jacksonville Lic# MM 32906

St. Johns Magazine

*Veteran Owned & Operated

BRIDE GUIDE

5

St. Johns, St. Augustine, Jacksonville & Ponte Vedra

The Bride’s

Resource Guide Bridal Fantasy Events are proud to introduce to you some of the area’s top wedding professionals.

Please use this list as a reference for planning your wedding.

For more specific information about these and other vendors please visit JACKSONVILLEBRIDALSHOW.COM We hope you enjoy the day and good luck with your wedding and all of your future endeavors!

Bridal Fantasy Events 800.917.9308 Photo by Robert Max Photography

HOST AND TITLE D’Land Entertainment Cathy Juhasz Boutique SPONSOR

904.880.7887 904.247.6896

dlandentertainment.com cathyjuhaszboutique.com Sawgrass Marriott

904.285.7777 x 6636 Unforgettable Events Compliments by Sherri & Co. SawgrassMarriott.com 888.964.0888 904.221.7380

theunforgettableevent.com ComplimentsbySherryandco.com PRI Productions

904.398.8179

David’s Bridal JacksonvilleWeddingServices.com FASHION SPONSORS davidsbridal.com Atlantic Blvd. /904.724.0909

Southside Blvd. / 904.519.8933

Argie Mitra

CORPORATE SPONSORS argiemitra.com Makeup by Paulina Perez

904.735.7499 Adam Pressley Films Beatrice Couture paulinaperez.com 904.222.8949 904.880.2343

AdamPressleyFilms.com BeatriceCoutureDesigns.com Men’s Wearhouse

tmw.com Anthony’s Gourmet Catering Bridals and More Wells & Blandiing 904.264.9199 904.264.1338 904.434.6627 The Avenues 904.363.8371 AnthonysGourmetCatering.com MyBridalsandMore.com St. Johns Town Center 904.565.9252

St. Johns Town Center, #101 904.646.0966 Casino Party Planners Brooch the Possibilities Regency Square 904.725.5970 River City Market Pl 904.696.6162 352.307.5965 904.803.6138

Casinopartyplanners.com broochthepossibilities.com

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St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

Minerva’s Bridal PLATINUM SPONSORS Palm Travel Group 904.733.0858

904.322.7123 Minervasbridal.com David’s Bridal

palmtravelgroup.com

davidsbridal.com The Shoppes at the Avenues Robert Max Photography PJ’s Catering 904.519.8933 904.206.3117 904.619.9410 Regency Park robertmaxphotography.com 904.724.0909 JaxCaterer.com

Severine Photography Ponte Vedra Inn & Club Publix Supermarkets, Inc./Publix 904.238.2035 888.839.9145 Aprons Event Planning severine-photography.com publix.com/wedding PonteVedra.com

Skip Kelly Productions Riverside Tours & Travel 904.469.7547 904.568.7094 GOLD SPONSORS skipk.com riversidetoursandtravel.com

Anything with Plants and Flowers Visual Power Cinema Seasons 52 904.398.9880 904.465.2151/904.716.2079 904.645.5252 anythingwithplants.com visualpowercinema.com seasons52.com

Britney Kay Photography SPECIAL RECOGNITION Stan Badz Photography 904.994.1726 VIP PARTY HOST

904.607.8206 BritneyKayPhotography.com

StanBadzPhotography.com

DJ Jacob Towe

Cadeau 904.718.4708 The Lodge & Club 904.273.2929 888.839.9145 DjJacobTowe.com

Cadeaugiftregistry.com PonteVedra.com

SPECIAL RECOGNITION Casa Monica Hotel The Reef Restaurant HONEYMOON SPONSOR 904.827.1888 casamonica.com 904.824.8008

thereefstaugustine.com

Riverside Tours and Travel

Epping Forest 904.568.7094 The River Club riversidetoursandtravel.com Yacht & Country Club 904.354.1111 904.421.2226

JaxRiverClub.com Efyc.com SPECIAL RECOGNITION

FASHION SHOW MC’S The String Group I-Lipo Slimming Laser

904.718.4045 904.223.1616 Paul Deland thestringgroup.com DrDJax.com D’Land Entertainment

904.880.7887 Things Remembered Irrok Photography dlandentertainment.com thingsremembered.com 904.316.4555

irrok.com Dr. Tabitha Johnson, Tyler MacKenzie Photography

Florida Marriage Prep Course 352.430.4981 Life & Love Studios 904.701.2593 tylermackenziephotography.com 904.669.8511 floridamarriageprep.com

lifeandlovestudio.com

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

7

St. Johns, St. Augustine, Jacksonville & Ponte Vedra

The Bride’s Little

Resource Guide

8

A Happily Ever After Florals Carefree Catering deercreekclub.com 904.874.6553 386.871.5547

ahappilyeverafterfloral.com carefreecater.com Deerwood Country Club

904.998.5330 Addy Photography Casa Marina Hotel & Restaurant deerwoodclub.com 904.252.9604 904.270.0025 addy.com casamarinahotel.com Divine Indugences Designer Cakes

904.571.5407/904.309.2948 Alfred Angelo Coastal Beauty DivineIndulgencesDesignerCakes.com 904.726.8851 904.881.2330

AlfredAngelo.com CoastalBeauty.net Double Tree by Hilton

Jacksonville Airport Bad, Bath & Beyond Coastal Occasions at Casa Bella 904.741.1997 bedbathandbeyond.com Village 904.887.8240 doubletree3.hilton.com Regency Square Mall CoastalOccasion.com

904.720.1806 Elegant Imagery Photography Orange Park Mall Connie Duglin Linens 904.819.6696 904.317.4701 904.731.5556 elegantimagery.com Timberlin Village cdlinen.com

904.519.0051 Engagement Ring Studio River City Courtyard Orange Park 904.710.5783 904.696.3361 904.854.1500 engagementringstudiojax.com Jacksonville Beach Marriott.com/JaxCo 904.241.5201

Evan Hampton Photography Regency Square Mall Creative Event Planning by 904.314.2009 904.720.1806 Carmella, LLC evanhampton.com

904.887.0051

Beachview Event Rentals & creativeeventplanningbycarmella.com Expert Jewelry Appraisers, LLC Design 877.782.7368

904.309.9990 beachview.net Crowne Plaza Jacksonville Airport ExpertJewelryAppraisers.com

904.421.2034/904.741.4404

Belk - Southside cpjacksonvilleairport.com Feedback Entertainment 904.363.1100 x 205

888.804.9566 belk.com Cruise Planners feedbackentertainment.com 904.482.3996

Black & Blue Grill cruiseplannerpro.com Florida Eye Specialists 904.940.5500

904.346.3506 BlackBlueGrill.com Dan Harris Photo Art FloridaEyeSpecialists.com 904.398.7668

Blue Heron Inn DanHarrisPhotoArt.com Florida Marriage Prep Course 904.445.9034

904.701.2593 ameliaislandblueheroninn.com Deercreek Country Club floridamarriageprep.com

904.363.1604

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

B

lack &

B

lue GRIll

S t e a k S e a f o o d P a S ta

A Venue with a View & the Food to Match it

Located in theBeautfiful World Golf Area just east of 1-95 (exit 323) and International Golf Parkway

Weddings rehearsal dinners

Catering

904.940.5500 705 Horton’s Trace, St. Augustine, FL 32095

event venue

www.BlackBlueGrill.com

custom veils & adornments

s

Let Us Design Your Desires www.ricerafferty.etsy.com St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

9

St. Johns, St. Augustine, Jacksonville & Ponte Vedra

The Bride’s Little

Resource Guide

continued

10

Hampton Inn & Suites jacksonvillebartending.

904.827.9797 com StAugustineVilanoBeachSuites.

HamptonInn.com Jacksonville

Marriott Hello Smooth 904.279.8342 904.342.2383 marriott.com/jaxfl hellosmooth.com

Jeunesse Global Hilton St. Augustine Historic 904.502.4720 Bayfront 2MinuteSkinMiracles.

904.829.2277 com Photo by Robert Max Photography hilton.com

Massage Green

JKS Film 904.549.7535 Holiday Inn I-295 East 904.468.0777

904.854.8000 jksfilm.com Matthew’s Restaurant & Catering JacksonvilleHi.com 904.396.1213

Kris Graham Photography matthewsrestaurant.com iPhotoBooth 904.403.2055

904.955.8805 krisgrahamphotography.com Michael’s Formal Wear & Bridal i-photobooth.com tuxedosbymichaels.com

Learn to Dance Software St. John’s Town Center 904.645.3999 Isagenix 904.516.5545 Bartram Walkk 904.262.2226 386.453.9885 LearntoDance.dance Orange Park Mall 904.269.2213 River City Market 904.751.3333 Marisa.Isagenix.com St. Augustine 904.824.3673

Magnetix Entertainment

It works - That Crazy Wrap 904.607.7111 Party Solution Entertainment 904.838.3806 MagnetixEntertainment.com 904.503.4668 WrappinPatton.MyItWorks.com partysolutionent.com

Mambo’s Cuban Café

J. Mosely Photography 904.374.2046 Photobooth to Go 904.891.8164 mamboscubancafe.com 904.399.2293 JMosleyPhoto.com

photoboothtogo.com

Marshall Family Chiropractic

Jacksonville Arboretum 904.306.7777 & Gardens, Inc. maximizedlivingdrmarshall.com Pineapple Post 800.680.8018 904.635.2927

PineapplePostGifts.com Jacksonvillearboretum.org Mary Kay Cosmetics

904.292.4661 Plexus Slim Jacksonville Bartending marykay.com/lindarowe 904.504.9404 424-9993

gethealthyjax.com

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

Behind the Scenes Photography Robert Max Photography Models Megan Lessard Megi Duro Hair & Makeup Makeup by Paulina Perez Makeup: Nicole Kaleel Hair: Chudney Baker Wardrobe Styling Argie Mitra Styling Assistant Keisha Burr Special Thanks Bridals & More Lisa Goodrich Location The Marble Bank Building 51 W Forsyth St. Jacksonville, FL 32202 Soon to be The Bullbriar Restaurant

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

11

Springtime in

PARIS

Dress, Contrarian New York Lace Overlay, Jenny Yoo Earrings, Pink Underground by Nicole Lee

12

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

Dress, For Love & Lemons Bracelet, Pink Underground by Nicole Lee

Dress, Contrarian New York Necklace & Earrings, Pink Underground by Nicole Lee

Dress by Bridals & More

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

13

St. Johns, St. Augustine, Jacksonville & Ponte Vedra

The Bride’s Little

Resource Guide

Premier Alterations 904.287.7688

Simply Elegant Event 904.686.5196 simplyelegantevent.net Pretty Color Productions

904.483.0070 Southside Dental at Tinseltown prettycolorproductions.com 904.642.2010

southside-dental.com Props! Photo Booths

904.469.7054 St. Johns Golf & Country Club propsphotobooths.com 904.940.3206

stjohnsgolf.com Queen’s Harbour Golf

& Country Club St. Johns Magazine 904.220.2118 x 3 904.687.8538 queensharbourcc.com stjohnsmag.com

Rice Rafferty Couture Accessories Surprise the Bride -Custom Wedricerafferty.etsy.com ding Songs

904.806.5706 Rodan & Fields surprisethebride.com Independent Consultant

904.333.5763 Sweet by Holly https://mirtharust.myrandf.com 904.564.2711

Sweetbyholly.com Rose of Sharon

904.737.8655 The Brace Place Orthodontics RoseofSharonFlorist.net Dr. Josh Goldknopf

904.249.0037 / thebraceplace.net Roy’s Restaurant

904.241.7697 The Chocolate Turtle roysrestaurant.com 904.770.2344

thechocolateturtlestaug.com Sawgrass Country Club

904.543.1021 The Golf Club of Amelia Island sawgrasscountryclub.com 904.277.0021

golfclubofameliaevents.com Sensational Ceremonies

888.390.7299 The Hilltop Restaurant SensationalCeremonies.com 904.272.5959

hilltop-club.com Serenata Beach Club

904.823.3368 The Pioneer Barn Serenataclub.com 904.824.8874

oldfloridamuseum.com 14

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

continued The Treasury on the Plaza 904.217.0077 treasuryontheplaza.com

The Wedding Party 904.335.1519 TheWeddingPartyJax.com

The White Room 904.824.9056 ocwhiteroom.com

Thirty One Gifts 904.342.0955 mythirtyone.com/gingerhandley

Tie The Knot Catering 424-9993 tietheknotcatering.com

Title Boxing Club 904.223.3200 titleboxingclub.com

TPC Sawgrass 904.543.5128 tpc.com/tpc-sawgrass

University Club 904.396.1687 uc-jacksonville.com

Viva Expressions Photography 386.688.1052 vivaexpressions.com

Yanman Photography & Video 407.341.3451 yanman.com

Younique 904.607.9587 jaxlashlady.com

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE St. Johns, St. Augustine, Jacksonville & Ponte Vedra

Editor Darren Rosenbaum Account Executive Melyssa Eilers

Photo by Dan Harris Photo Art

Publisher Debbie Gaylord

Photography Provided by Bridal Fantasy Events * see page 11 for full credits & Dan Harris Photoart St. Johns Magazine Bride Guide is published annually in January in cooperation with MyWeddingStyles, Inc, producers of The Bridal Fantasy Bridal Show at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa. St. Johns Magazine Bride Guide & Producers and Sponsors of the BRIDAL FANTASY EVENTS do not make any representation about the quality of any product, service, information or other materials purchased or obtained by you via use of any vendors participating in this event other than themselves.

The listing of all participating vendors represents those committed at the time this program was published and may not be all inclusive.

The Bride Guide 904-687-8538

debbie@stjohnsmag.com

www.stjohnsmag.com

All rights reserved Š2015 St. Johns Magazine LLC Published each January and distributed free of charge, in print and on the St. web.Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

15

Premier Alterations

904-287-7688

Wedding Gowns

155 Hampton Point Drive # 2 (off CR 210 West) St. Augustine, Florida

Bridesmaid Dresses

Mother of the Bride/ GRoom Men’s Suits & Tuxes monogramming available

Kouture Kreations w w w. k o u t u r e k r e a t i o n s . n e t

In Business since 2006 Seamstress 30+ years experience Alterations done in-house

w w w. e l e g a n t w e d d i n g s b y l i s a . c o m

& ELEGANT WEDDINGS by Lisa

904.268.1429

904.294.0103

Master Bridal Consultant

Mention this ad & receive

20% off

One Complimentary Consultation

Bringing Your Imagination to Life! Custom Invitations for all occasions Designed to meet your personality, poise and budget. Event Planning with style* grace* sophistication*

Hampton Inn & Suites Vilano Beach

• Custom designed wedding packages to fit every Bride’s wishes • Out of town guests will receive discount room rates • Bride and Groom will receive a complimentary Jacuzzi suite when reception is booked.

• Lovely banquet & function space is perfect for Bridal Showers, rehearsals and receptions (accomodates up to 150 guests) • For event planning & accomodation details please contact

Congratulations!

Your wedding is a big commitment.

Not just for you but for us too!

We will make sure you and your guest have a wonderful experience...guaranteed!

Spacious Accomadatioins Wonderful Amenities Fantastic Location

Theresa Chastonay, Director of Sales theresa.chastonay@marriot.com

Mae White Director of Sales

610 Wells Road, Orange Park, Fl 32073 (904)854-1500 www.Marriot.com/Jaxco

16

St. Johns Magazine

95 Vilano Road, St. Augustine, FL 32084 904.827.9797 mae.white@hilton.com www.staugustinevilanobeach.hamptoninn.com

BRIDE GUIDE

Wedding Planning for

LISTMAKERS

12 months or more ♥♥ Confirm ceremony details and vows with ♥♥ Pack for honeymoon ♥♥ Set a date, time and location for officiant ♥♥ Attend rehearsal and dinner ceremony and reception ♥♥ Make hotel reservations for wedding ♥♥ Prepare a bride’s emergency kit ♥♥ Budget and shared expenses night ♥♥ Bring guest book & pen to reception site ♥♥ Create an email address for wedding ♥♥ Review honeymoon needs ♥♥ Give checks you have written and the related stuff ♥♥ Finalize and book honeymoon wedding bands to best man ♥♥ Announce engagement ♥♥ Interview wedding consultants / 2 months Wedding day planners ♥♥ Schedule wedding day hair and makeup ♥♥ Get your hair and make-up done ♥♥ Interview / research photographers and ♥♥ Wedding bands ♥♥ Go over checklist videographers ♥♥ Gifts for bridal party ♥♥ Enjoy the day! ♥♥ Select your ceremony officiant or clergy ♥♥ Bridal gown and bridal party fittings / ♥♥ Attend a bridal show choose jewelry and accessories ♥♥ Schedule groom fittings 10-12 months ♥♥ Design your wedding program & print ♥♥ Choose attendants; confirm availability/ ♥♥ Finalize rehearsal dinner plans and order get sizes invites ♥♥ Reserve reception site ♥♥ Finalize and confirm the menu for the ♥♥ Choose gown reception ♥♥ Create guest list ♥♥ Plan the bachelor / bachelorette party / ♥♥ Engagement photo and announcement bridal shower / bridal luncheon ♥♥ Pre-marital counseling ♥♥ Choose entertainment 1 month Photo by Dan Harris Photo Art ♥♥ Reserve caterers ♥♥ Pick up wedding rings ♥♥ Research honeymoon ♥♥ Pick up marriage license ♥♥ Purchase a guest book and pen 6-9 months before your wedding ♥♥ Send rehearsal dinner invitations ♥♥ Set up your gift registry ♥♥ Write thank-you notes for showers, ♥♥ Plan rehearsal dinner parties and any gifts received ____________ ♥♥ Mother’s / bridesmaid’s / flower girl ♥♥ Have bridal portrait taken dresses / groom / ring bearer ♥♥ Contact guests who haven’t RSVP’d ____________ ♥♥ Finalize guest list ♥♥ Set up a seating chart ♥♥ Order invitations ♥♥ Meet with photographer ____________ ♥♥ Send Save-the-Dates ♥♥ Meet with videographer ____________ ♥♥ Select ceremony music and readings ♥♥ Meet with DJ or band ♥♥ Plan menu for reception ♥♥ Meet with florist ____________ ♥♥ Choose bakery for wedding cake ♥♥ Meet with baker ____________ ♥♥ Block hotel rooms ♥♥ Confirm honeymoon reservations

NOTES

3-6 months before wedding 2 weeks ♥♥ Reserve rehearsal dinner location ♥♥ Have final fittings ♥♥ Bridal accessories (jewelry / shoes / ♥♥ Give final number and seating to the lingerie / veil / headpiece / etc.) caterer ♥♥ Bridesmaids’ accessories ♥♥ Confirm transportation ♥♥ Research and try-out hair styles from ♥♥ Pick up honeymoon documents Pinterest ♥♥ Send invitations to arrive 8 weeks out Week of wedding ♥♥ Choose ceremony participants, readers, ♥♥ Confirm final payments for vendors and greeters write checks

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________

17

ENGAGED! What Happens Next?

by Gregory Sessions

Your knight in shining armor, on bended knee, finally asked you

to be his forever only! After heartfelt tears, laughter, and the excitement, now comes the time to make lots of decisions about your upcoming wedding.

First thing! Be sure to share the good news with family and friends!

Do this prior to updating your status on Facebook. Allowing casual contacts on social media to know about your wedding engagement before family and friends, even though inadvertently, can make for some really awkward moments.

You’ll appreciate this advice later - guaranteed!

This new beginning is a defining moment in both your lives. Enjoy some time together. Do something fun. Maybe plan and

take a vacation together.

Allow this time to sink in and be sure to think about the adventure and promise you and your soulmate are about to

discover. Discuss with each other all that your engagement means and the particulars that go along with it.

The author here is a strong advocate of pre-marital counseling even if you think you don’t need it. This information will

firmly plant you and your future spouse with a proper foundation and point you in the right direction.

Then, and only then, take up the task of planning your dream wedding.

1

sual, you don’t have to know exactly what you want but just start Set the date. Use your wedding date as a budget strategy by

choosing a date in the off-season or pick a date that is meaningful for you and your fiancé. Regardless, when booking any vendor the

5

Select your wedding party. Choose those who will be most

first thing they will want to know is “When is your wedding day?”

supportive to you and your goals. Don’t feel obligated because

2

you were in their wedding or they are family members. Be upfront Discuss and develop a reasonable and realistic budget. Decide

about your expectations and the duties you will expect your wed-

who will be paying for what and how; and commit to each other to

ding party to carry out. Doing so will aleviate any potential misun-

stick to what you mutually decide.

derstanding.

3

6

Each person you invite to your wedding will affect your bud-

Reserve your reception venue. Choose a venue that fits your

get. Decide if you are going to have a big wedding or a smaller, in-

wedding. Do you need a venue for the ceremony and the reception?

timate affair. Come up with a predetermined number for an “A” and

Check to see if they have all the amenities you need.

“B” and “C” list. As each person from your “A” list sends in their re-

7

grets be ready to replace them with someone on your “B” or “C” list.

4 18

to formalize your ideas.

Book your photographer. Many book quickly. If you’ve been fol-

lowing a particular photographer, set up an appointment to meet Determine your wedding theme and begin to visualize how

with them as soon as possible.

you want your wedding to look. Outdoor or indoors, formal or ca-

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

Photo by Dan Harris Photo Art

$

10 off

sjm10

a $60 order

photos to canvas giclee prints enlargements signs banners unique frames

904-201-9898

8

www.printmypictureonline.com

Now its time to map out a plan for hiring your vendors. Maybe take in a bridal show or two. Give yourself a break between decisions.

This may also be a good time to hire a wedding coordinator - a good coordinator can make the process much easier. Don’t try to do everything yourself or at once. Enjoy your time as an engaged bride.

9

Above all else, enjoy yourself and during this entire process never forget the reason you are getting married. It’s not about the party,

and frankly it’s not about any singular person. It’s about starting your new life together with your spouse and making it the best it can be.

St. Johns Magazine

BRIDE GUIDE

19

7 Things You Need To Know About Your New Diamond Ring!

Your new diamond ring is special, and intended to

By Kevin Carpenter G.G. Expert Jewery Appraisal LLC

of limited manufacturer’s warranty, which can cover damage

be worn for many years. Here is how to make that happen!

or lost stones under certain circumstances. Surprisingly, most

common insurance claim is for lost jewelry, and that can only

1) Diamonds are the hardest substance known to

man, so they will not chip or break. However, while diamonds

be covered by a jewelry insurance policy.

are extremely hard and difficult to scratch, all gemstones are

prone to damage, even when worn with care. Jewelry replace-

low, is something wrong with it? Gold is a yellow metal, and is

ment insurance can repair or replace damaged stones if they

mixed with white metals to produce white gold. The resulting

have been properly appraised and described.

product has a slightly yellow tint, which is finished with Rho-

2) I have heard about “synthetic” diamonds, how

dium plating to get that pure white metal look. The plating

do I know if my diamond is real? Synthetic diamonds (made by

eventually wears off, revealing the original mix. Plan to replace

man) and other substitutes like CZ have been around for many

the rhodium plating once or twice a year to keep it looking like

years. Hand held diamond testers used in most stores cannot

it did when you first put it on.

consistently identify every type of diamond imitation seen

today. To verify a diamond as genuine, authenticate any certifi-

praisal. Can’t I use that to obtain jewelry insurance? While

cates, and determine if it has been fracture filled or enhanced, it

many retail jewelers are very familiar with diamonds, very few

must be examined and tested by a G.I.A. Graduate Gemologist.

are G.I.A. Graduate Gemologists, and even fewer have been

3) My diamond is set in platinum, does that mean

trained as personal property appraisers. Most insurance com-

it can’t fall out? While platinum is an excellent metal for setting

panies require appraisers to have these certifications, and also

diamonds, all prongs are subject to daily wear and tear, being

be performed by someone other than the seller.

broken or bent, and the stone being lost. Have the settings

checked every six months, and make sure your ring is insured

fordable, and can be purchases from any insurance agent. You

against damage just in case.

will need an appraisal to secure the policy. Give Expert Jewelry

4) I think I can see a flaw in my diamond, is that

Appraisers a call to schedule your appointment for our “while

bad? There are very few flawless diamonds, and most have

you watch” mobile gem appraisal service, or in one of our 5 area

some kind of unique birthmark inside. That can actually be

offices.

6) How come my white gold ring is turning yel-

7) The jeweler who made my ring gave us an ap-

Jewelry replacement insurance is surprisingly af-

useful to help you identify your individual diamond. While the size, type and amount of inclusions do affect value, many non-

a member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers. Visit our

flawless diamonds shine just as bright as the flawless ones.

Expert Jewelry Appraisers LLC. is an independent appraisal firm and is

5) My ring is brand new, and came with a war-

website at: www.expertjewelryappraisers.com or call us at 904-309-9990

ranty, do I still need insurance? Most stores offer some kind

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Independent On Site Jewelry Appraisals in Ponte Vedra Beach and the Jacksonville, FL Area.

904-309-9990

KevinBCarpenter@yahoo.com

www.expertjewelryappraisers.com

Dr. Tabitha Johnson, Ph.D., LMFT Marriage and Family therapist, Author & Speaker www.floridamarriageprep.com

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Communication Skills &

by Dr. Tabitha Johnson Marriage & Family Therapist, Author & Speaker www.floridamarriageprep.com

“I’m not happy anymore. I think I want a divorce.”

All too often in my counseling office, I see a husband and wife, and one of them has just been blind sided by their partner. Their partner isn’t happy, and yet they had no idea that there was any major problem. To avoid this, one of the biggest communication skills I recommend to couples (both engaged couples completing premarital counseling and to those married for a number of years) is that they have regular check-up conversations.

The purpose of the check-up conversation is to checkin with your partner to see how they are doing, and how they feel the relationship is going. This gives each partner a platform to express their feelings about the relationship, and helps each of them figure out what needs to happen next.

I recommend that these questions be used throughout the life of a marriage, not just when someone ties the knot.

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Here are the six questions to ask during a check-up conversation: 1. What information do I need to share? What do you need to share?

2. What’s something you appreciate about me?

3. What needs to change with me (my behavior)?

4. What are my hopes and dreams? (This can be short or long term, and can include any new things I’m looking forward to).

5. How can I pray for you? (If you are faith-based) or, What can I do to help you with things going on in your life?

6. On a scale of 1-10, how full is your love tank? (To what de gree are you feeling loved in this relationship)?

What can I do to better fill your love tank?

St. Johns Magazine

I recommend this conversation occur once a week.

Figure out a place and time that the conversation can happen, a time when you can both be attentive to one another and not be distracted by other people and other things.

Here is how these questions can help you and your marriage: Increased communication keeps you from putting your marriage on auto-pilot. It also decreases the chances that the “but I didn’t know you were that unhappy in our marriage” conversation will happen.

Encourages appreciation & admiration - Couples who only complain about the problems with their partner and don’t focus on what’s going right are statistically less satisfied in marriage and more likely to get a divorce.

Prevents defensiveness - Couples who use these six questions come into the conversation knowing what to expect.

They know that part of the process includes talking about what needs to change. Knowing this keeps you or your partner from feeling bombarded or attacked.

Having regularly scheduled check-up conversations is a small behavior change that keeps you connected and on the same page with your partner. What are some other ways you and your mate stay on the same page about your relationship? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

BRIDE GUIDE

3 CREATIVE Ideas for Your Wedding!

1. Brooch the Possiblities The designer creates Vintage Brooch Bouquets. Each one is a totally unique The designer creates Vintage Brooch Bouquets. Each one is a totally unique

one-of-a-kind piece piece ofof artwork artwork that that will will last last forever. forever. Find Find them them on on Facebook Facebook one-of-a-kind -broochthepossibilities -broochthepossibilities

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Handmade Fabric Garters can be re-purposed Handmade Fabric Garters be re-purposed into a hair clip or used as acan baby’s headband into a hair clip or used as a baby’s headband

2. Rice - Rafferty Mother-daughter designers specializing in couture accessories. They often incorporate luxurious fabrics: silk charmeuse, Mother-daughter designers specializing in couture accessories. They often incorporate luxurious fabrics: silk charmeuse, tulle,organza, organza,taffeta, taffeta,chantilly chantillylace, lace,pearls, pearls,rhinestones, rhinestones,and andvintage vintagecomponents componentsthat thatresult resultinintruly trulybeautiful beautifuland andunique unique tulle, one-of-a-kind accessories.

For more inspiration visit the online Etsy shop : etsy.com/shop/ricerafferty one-of-a-kind accessories. For more inspiration visit the online Etsy shop : etsy.com/shop/ricerafferty

3. Surprise the Bride Songstress Addi uses the words given to her by the Bride and Groom Songstress Addi uses the words given to her by the Bride and Groom write aa love love song song that that captures captures that that moment moment inin time time by by telling telling toto write their story and how they feel about each other. their story and how they feel about each other.

“Shetook tookour ourwords wordsand andsurprised surprisedus uswith withthe themost mostwonderful wonderfulgift gift “She we’ve ever received.

We will treasure the song she made for us on we’ve ever received. We will treasure the song she made for us on our wedding day for the rest of our lives!”--Rachel our wedding day for the rest of our lives!”--- Rachel “Addi’s song song was was the the most most touching touching part part ofof our our wedding. wedding. She She did did such such an an elegant elegant job job ofof weaving weaving together together the the story story ofof “Addi’s how we met and fell in love, capturing the perfect details and nuances, and performing it with a heartfelt conviction that how we met and fell in love, capturing the perfect details and nuances, and performing it with a heartfelt conviction that brought every guest to tears.

Our friends and family continually mentioned Addi’s song as one of the highlights of our wedbrought every guest to tears. Our friends and family continually mentioned Addi’s song as one of the highlights of our wedding,and andwe wecouldn’t couldn’tagree agreemore.” more.”-----Alyssa Alyssa Formore moreinformation informationvisit: visit: www.surprisethebride.com www.surprisethebride.com ding, For

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