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FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
Amazing
Dresses Unique Looks
8 Love Stories Notable
How to Pick a
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When it comes to the details, relax.
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Treasure every moment of your special day! Limousines | Party Buses | Guest Shuttles | Classic Cars 314.989.1500 | 866.272.1200 B e S t t r a n S P o r tat i o n . C o m SPeCiaLeventS@BeSttranSPortation.Com
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Includes a Bridal gift for your wedding day, and 20% off ALL services and retail, including bareMinerals Makeup from the time you book your party until your wedding day! We can’t wait to help your bridal beauty shine through!
Includes Clip-in Hair Extensions for only $99 ($250 value) and Eyelash Extensions for only $99 ($175 value). (May choose both offers or select one of your choice.)
Offer valid on newly booked weddings only, additional fees many apply, valid for in-stock extensions.
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welcome
T HE M AG A ZINE
Congratulations You’re engaged. You have found your soul mate and life is full of promise. You are moving forward to a day when you translate that love into a lifetime together. Wedding planning should be only a blip on the radar screen of happy times. St. Louis’ Best Bridal helps avoid the apprehension that goes with arranging the
VO LU M E 1 6 - N U M B E R 2 FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
day of your dreams. This reliable resource simplifies planning. St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine, Bridal Planner, stlouisbestbridal.com and its celebrations provide resources for you to create the wedding that symbolizes your unique relationship. You will find: Rebecca & Andrew Page 127
YOUR LOVE STORY
Calling all bridal couples who want to share their unique love story! Share your wedding details with St. Louis’ Best Bridal where they might be featured in its magazine and website. Contact Janice at jdenham@yourjournal.com.
✤ A timeline of what to do and when to do it ✤ Helpful budget guides ✤ Ideas to announce the wedding, save-the dates, invitations and say “thank you” ✤ Clues for finding your theme ✤ Clothing options for the bride, groom, mothers and others ✤ Rules and regulations to obtain a legal marriage license ✤ Familiar and new ideas for bouquets, plus flower choices ✤ Tempting food and drink ideas ✤ Magnificent wedding cakes and sweets ✤ Locations and extra fun for a reception ✤ Musical leads ✤ Guidelines for all-important photographs ✤ Honeymoon tips
Making lists is the easy part. Completing tasks is made simple with St. Louis’ Best Bridal and our “dream team” of top-notch clothiers, caterers, bakers, jewelers, florists, printers and venues in the St. Louis metro area. St. Louis’ Best Bridal has everything you need! Be sure to announce your engagement, and later your wedding, FREE online (stlouisbestbridal.com) and in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. It is our wedding gift
PUBLISHER Mary Ann Wagner EDITORIAL Editor Janice Denham DESIGN Art Director Robert Meyer ADVERTISING Account Executives Laura Dacus Jacqui Grable Vanessa Ortmann Sales Assistant Abby Reich EDITORIAL ASSISTANCE (314) 475-1204 ADVERTISING INQUIRIES (314) 475-1201 CONTACT US St. Louis’ Best Bridal 900 N. Tucker Blvd., 3rd Floor St. Louis, MO 63101 www.stlouisbestbridal.com BRIDAL MARKETPLACE Find local wedding professionals www.stlouisbestbridal.com
to you and yours! On behalf of the entire team at St. Louis’ Best Bridal, we wish you the best wedding ever.
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St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine is a semi-annual publication available at fine retailers, advertiser locations and at all St. Louis’ Best Bridal shows and events. All contents herein are protected by copyright laws (2004-2018) by St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of the contents, without prior written permission of the publisher, is strictly prohibited. The magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a selfaddressed, stamped envelope. Statements and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect or represent those of this publication, its editor or its staff. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and integrity of the information contained in this publication, St. Louis’ Best Bridal disclaims all responsibility for omissions and printer’s errors. A Lee Enterprises Publication.
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108 Chesterfield Towne Ctr Chesterfield, MO 63305
636-778-3433 www.miagracebridal.com
Please visit www.miagracebridal.com to make an appointment and to see our beautiful collections. Bridal Bridesmaids Mother of the Bride & Groom Flower Girls
T HE M AG A ZINE
on the cover
COVER MODEL
Dr. April Tyus-Myles Read how Otha, newcomer to St. Louis, merged personal and professional interests with April on a jazzy backdrop. See Page 23.
GOWN
Wedding Gallery Shoulder chains of Swarovski crystals provide a vintage touch to classic design of Wedding Gallery in its exclusive Made-in-USA Beau Monde Couture Collection. Clean-lined elegance of the mermaid gown in luxe double satin is made in the Greater St. Louis area. A sweetheart neckline shares jeweled embellishment with a low back, where crystal buttons follow down the skirt to a semi cathedral train. More Made-in-USA gowns start on page 58.
HAIR & MAKEUP
Belleza Bridal and Hair Salon Rachel Rosenquist A smoky eye in soft champagne emphasizes April’s fetching gaze. A simple pop of rosiness glamorizes her already-glowing checks and follows the trending classicism of shimmer, minus the glimmer, for healthy skin. “Scandal” is her lip color. The bride’s short pixie cut, a flattering and edgy classic, is enhanced for volume.
BOUQUET
Walter Knoll Florist Abundant garden specialties span seasons. Roses – creamy Quicksand and Sweet Escimo and orange bi-color Kahala – spark an arrangement with burgundy dahlias, stems of mini cymbidium orchids, eggplant-hued scabiosa, pink stock and leucadendron, and blue eryngium. Warm-white hanging amaranthus, pheasant feathers and air plants keep the bouquet moving. Seeded and silver dollar eucalyptus round out the greens.
16
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
2300 Edwards St. | St. Louis, MO 63110 314.772.6003 | www.roseofthehill.com
HOST YOUR EVENT “ON THE HILL” • Weddings (Up to 350) • Rehearsal Dinners
• Bridal Showers • Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties
5201 Southwest Ave. | St. Louis, MO 63199 314.772.4454 | www.favazzas.com
• Anniversary Parties • Baby Showers
OUR MAGAZINE
inside
Contents ON THE COVER 20 8 Love Stories
LOVE STORIES 23 FOCUSED: April & Otha
45
Grace trimmed in beauty
33
Bouquet bliss
69
Sweet art
87
Crafty cocktails
109
Fitting reception sites
127
73
90
106
112
Local couples walk together with commitment. Romance charms best-day-of-my-life gowns. Fresh take on garden whimsy. Cake success from one imaginative baker.
Sugary fluff refreshes season’s spirited flavors. Colin Cowie guides ways to match up stunning venue.
FEATURES 54 Jeweled colors, shiny glow
56
62
64
94
97
133
148
150
153
Enriched colors reflect nature’s warmth. Lush layers
66
83
132
18
141
157
Even a jazz-loving M.D. falls for dimples. FLEXIBLE: Cassie & Alan
St. Louis warmly welcomes out-of-towners for new year. BALANCED: Daniel & Miguel
Couple tunes up pan-American traditions. DRAMATIC: Nick & Joe
Musical merger stars theater lovers. SETTLED: Victoria & Joshua
Roush appears as third wedding partner. COLORFUL: Rebecca & Andrew
Marriage stroll follows yellow brick road. SUPER-CHARGED: Stephanie & Nathan
Nature and motorcycles grab wedding themes. PURPOSEFUL: Tayler & Jeff
Gritty occasion sprouts serious side with fun.
Glamorous glow
ESSENTIALS 26 First draft: ‘who’s who’
Beauty accents
29
Dive into sweet rewards
36
Culinary quest
38
Men upload style
40
Winery welcome
130
Elegant fashion fits Midwestern tastes. Pampering lightens stress, renews face and body. Soft colors subdue drama in top-level starts. Newlyweds-to-be keep goggled eyes on prize. Roll out food with colorful ingredients and flavors. Color menswear in blue, gray, black or awesome For rustic getaway wedding, winery is close to home. Dreams of home
Registry forms wish list for bride and groom. Treasures to wear & share
Show value of love and friendship to best fans.
FOOD, FASHION, FLOWERS 42 Figure angles determine fit
Gown shapes up to enhance look, provide comfort.
138
144
146
Perfect petals
160
Flowers speak by season, style, texture and tone. Gentlemen, meet your tuxedo
Follow plan for step-by-step confidence.
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Time line forecasts success
Day-by-day plan keeps sight of ultimate goal. Who pays the bills
5 priorities help set budget and determine who pays. Sign on the dotted line
Bride + groom + license = legal marriage. Money matters
Budget ceiling should balance expenses at 100 percent. Celebrate with St. Louis’ Best Bridal
Party spirit blankets events with creativity alongside fun.
PARTY PLANS 104 Pace the party
Lift the beauty bar
Sprinkle and sparkle the glow with accessories.
Wedding party intended to form permanent team.
Plan the fun and toast the timekeepers. Shall we dance?
Best music guides, doesn’t step on toes. Video tags along on lively day
Merge party-pleasing scenes in sight with those hidden. Ask a photographer
Envision the “I do” with photo for total recall. Blazing farewell
Match a memorable entrance with a dramatic getaway.
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ON T HE COV E R
togetherness
s e i r o t s e Lov
23
157
69 141 This page, clockwise, starting bottom left, Danielle and Miguel merged their future in a wedding dream-come-true as they combined their PanAmerican cultures of the United States and Mexico. | Tayler and Jeff found their hearts, softened by kids and family, entwined in an elegant design of tradition which included tasty cookies brought by relatives from Illinois. | April and Otha gathered an appreciation for jazz, medical careers and each other into their St. Louis wedding. | Stephanie and Nathan planned their day of commitment with natural greens and motorcycles in their sights and her recently ill father recovering to walk her down the aisle.
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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
87 109 33 127 This page, clockwise, from bottom left, Cassie and Alan greeted 2018 as newlyweds in St. Louis, with a warm celebration that included their dog on a very wintry day. | Tori and Josh set a wedding date so they could embark as newlyweds on a free honeymoon trip. | Nick and Joe showcased their theatrical spirit by seating guests at tables named for musicals and starred in their own production of “The Wedding.” | Rebecca and Andrew paved their individual Yellow Brick Road for a wedding day painted in bight “Over the Rainbow” colors.
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L OV E S TORY
April & Otha MARCH 25, 2018
‘Conversation was intelligent. … Plus, I liked his dimples.’ STORY BY JANICE DENHAM
✿
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE STREET PHOTO & VIDEO
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‘I am so glad we took the time to become friends first.’ The two doctors didn’t consider meeting in
find her – an intelligent, accomplished, smiling
bride’s calm demeanor was threatened before the
August of 2013 an emergency, but follow-up
woman. I realized she was working her magic
ceremony. One of her twin nephews, planned as
evaluations developed a healthy prognosis.
on me. We could spend hours talking.” Noting
ring and sign bearers, jumped Superman-style off
At a happy hour for professionals, pediatri-
the significance, Otha added, “I even passed
a chair, so a fellow pediatrician checked the goose
cian April Tyus came with her sister, a lawyer.
the background check of her younger, but
egg-sized bump on the boy’s head.
Otha Myles still sought a social niche after moving
protective, sister.”
Two hundred guests watched the bride
from Baltimore, Md., to St. Louis seven months
April’s timeline for deciding their future was
and her father come down the aisle. Otha’s
earlier to be close to a sick relative. April almost
unnecessary. “She changed my heart after about
fraternity brother, an opera singer, sang the
left before being introduced. He was surprised
two years. I realized she wouldn’t be around
Lord’s Prayer and “Ave Maria.” As a sign of
when her follow-up email offered a local tour of
forever unless I could show something about a
unity, the couple braided strands into a single
things he might like to do.
serious relationship, so we started talking about
rope. When they exchanged vows, the bride
an engagement,” Otha said.
committed to becoming a family with Otha
“We found a mutual interest in jazz, among the early things,” April recalled. “We met first
On Jan. 1, 2017, he planned a surprise
and his daughters. “Not a dry eye remained,”
at 360 St. Louis. We discovered after our first
birthday party for her without telling guests its
Otha said, “when April gave them a special gift
date that we actually lived on the same street
true intent. His proposal surprised April and
and had special words for them.”
in Chesterfield. He had a good personality for
another 40 guests.
talking. Conversation was intelligent and it came naturally. Plus, I liked his dimples.”
Pinpointing a wedding date, April’s priority of “not snowing” helped focus on his daughters’ school spring breaks for setting a ceremony at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 25, 2018.
The four also lit a single candle. The couple received congratulations at a lobby reception with cupcakes and punch. The wedding party traveled for photos to the Grand Basin of Forest Park, Washington
“We wanted the ceremony to reflect the whole
University and The Gateway Arch, where the
fabric of our being from high school on to today,”
newlyweds enjoyed the chilly day with a private
the groom said. Their search for a church to satisfy
ride in a white horse-drawn carriage.
her reserved upbringing in Ferguson, yet fulfill
The couple designed a logo and projected it
seeds planted by his family in Missouri’s Boot Heel
first at the church. At the reception, also held at
coming to Ferguson’s Greater Grace Church. The
the Charles F. Knight Executive Center, it showed
pastor prepared them to become a blended family.
at a staircase and behind them at their sweetheart
Inspiration and fun came at bridal shows,
table-for-two. After a dinner buffet, they served
which they attended together. “Eggplant” purple,
a tiered cake topped with “Dr ♥ Dr Myles” and
champagne and antique gold fashioned colors.
ice cream.
Two “best men” among three bridesmaids
A planner eased wedding-day stress so they
and three groomsmen included the doctor who
could celebrate with guests from across the United
introduced them. They negotiated use of gold and
States – California to Baltimore, Delaware,
black, colors of Otha’s beloved Alpha Phi Alpha
Washington, D.C., Atlanta and Texas.
fraternity, as complements atop a groom’s cake
“I am so glad we took the time to become
and on her garter. Otha preferred his tie and vest
friends first and really like each other before our
in “champagne” over purple, the color of a rival
marriage,” Otha said. They value each other’s
Otha, whose specialty is infectious disease,
fraternity. Still, the main color draped gowns,
opinion. He makes daytime calls to his bride,
still looked for meaning to the move. His ill
flooded flowers and uplit reception decor. His
“just to tell her I miss her. I look forward to us
brother died just a week after he settled with his
niece wore white as flower girl.
evolving in our careers together.”
A groomsman rescued the nervous groom,
They followed advice to continue dating. The
who forgot to shave, with a razor before the
“travel buddies” honeymooned in Aruba with
“April was God’s blessing to me and I had
couple’s “first look” at the Charles F. Knight
85-degree days and dinner on the beach at sunset.
to come all the way from the East Coast to
Executive Center at Washington University. The
It rained all week in St. Louis.
daughters, Haley and Lemella. By October, he and April were dating exclusively.
E S SE N T I A L S
the team
The wedding party HONOR THOSE WHO LOVE AND CARE ABOUT YOU. On your wedding day, people who surround you should be those you care about and trust. Bridal attendants and
per bridesmaid keeps symmetry at the altar and in photos, but
groomsmen serve this joyful purpose, so you and your spouse
there is no rule. Be certain that attendants feel comfortable
should invite only close relatives, longtime friends and faithful
with your choices for processional and pairings throughout
supporters.
the day.
In memory and photograph, these individuals always will
A small group of guests at a destination wedding may
stand beside you on this day of promise. Ask people with
determine who will attend the bride and groom simply
whom you want to spend time – not only on that singular day
because they think enough of you to make a distant trip to
but in your future. A thoughtful bride and groom consider
be at your side. If the officiant agrees, an attendant may be
options and assets for eligible attendants before they invite
someone close of the opposite sex.
them to be part of their wedding. Conventional wisdom lines up one to three attendants
26
Most weddings range from four to seven. One groomsman
Groomsmen or other men, as ushers, help seat family and friends, with specific ones honored to seat mothers of the
at a small, intimate wedding. A large, lavish or more formal
bride and groom. A young family or close-to-family member
affair likely will have more – up to 12 for each of you,
may be flower girl, ring bearer or train bearer. “Juniors” fall in
provided they fit the purpose, site, camera lens and budget.
age between young child and bridesmaid/groomsman.
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Maid or matron of honor Whether already down the aisle (matron) or not (maid), an honor attendant should be someone dear to the bride’s heart and on whom she can depend personally – perhaps a sister or a best friend – while planning and, just as importantly, on the wedding day.
Bridesmaids/groomsmen A sister, brother, other family member or close friend of either bride or groom usually becomes a bridesmaid, groomsman or usher. They help with wedding errands. Bridesmaids (sometimes groomsmen, too) throw a bridal shower. All are key guests at pre-wedding events.
Best man The best man should be someone the groom trusts to help with his wedding details and who also will provide moral support during this wonderful, stressful time of his life. Often, the groom asks a brother, close relative or best friend to stand beside him and, literally, get him to the church on time.
Flower girls One or two flower girls, age 4 to 8, walk down the aisle alone or with a ring bearer. A shy flower girl may be paired with a more confident child. Family choice - or
Somewhing olf. Somewhing new. Somewhing borrowed. E Somewhing Zoo . E Make your special day even more memorable. Book your wedding festivities, ceremony and reception at the Saint Louis Zoo. You can choose from four exclusive venues that offer not only romance,
the officiant’s guidelines - may determine if
but excitement as well—The Living World, Lakeside Cafe,
a parent makes an entrance with his or her
River Camp and the Event Tent. Then let our staff
infant or very young child. As they walk down the aisle before the bride, flower girls may hold a ball of flowers on a ribbon,
of professionals help plan every detail, from catering to exquisite floral arrangements to animal greeters—
a basket of rose petals to scatter, or baby
and even private tours of many of the Zoo’s
roses to pass to guests.
90 acres of habitats. For more information,
Ring bearer The ring bearer – a young boy of age 4
call 314-646-4855 or visit stlzoo.org to complete an online rental inquiry form.
or 5 – walks down the aisle alone or with the flower girl(s). He carries a decorative pillow or box to which real or artificial rings are attached with ribbon. To avoid misplacement, the best man may securely hold real ones.
Photography by Heather Roth
FALL & WINTER 2018
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27
Just anticipate the moment. We’ll handle the details.
Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch provides the perfect setting for any wedding occasion: from dynamic grand ballrooms and the inviting Park View room to the memorable rooftop Gateway Ballroom and terrace overlooking the Gateway Arch. For more information, call 314 342 4655 or visit hyattregencystlouis.com. HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS AT THE ARCH 315 Chestnut Street St. Louis, Missouri, USA, 63102
The trademarks HYATT®, Hyatt Regency® and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. ©2018 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved. Image by Kelly Park Photography.
countdown
ESSENTIALS
Wedding
PLANNING You’ve found the love of your life and the two of you are getting married! Now what? Your wedding is one of the most complex events you, your spouse-to-be and your families may ever orchestrate. A solid plan moves the process forward so the anticipation is pleasant. This time line and checklist help organize details from a chaotic start into the happiest celebration of your lives.
9-12 MONTHS
Choose members of the wedding party Research legal requirements for marriage license in location where you will wed and add immediately
Select a date and time for the wedding
to personal calendars
Arrange for parents to get together, perhaps at an engagement party or informally over dinner Begin to compile guest list Discuss budget with everyone who may contribute financially; establish priorities, including honeymoon
ESSENTIALS
countdown
Interview potential wedding planners Select officiant and visit with him or her to discuss wedding preparation
Wedding
and procedures
PLANNING You’ve found the love of your life and the two of you are getting married! Now what? Your wedding is one of the most complex events you, your spouse-to-be and your families may ever orchestrate. A solid plan moves the process forward so the anticipation is pleasant. This time line and checklist help organize details from a chaotic start into the happiest celebration of your lives.
9-12 MONTHS
Choose members of the wedding
Narrow down ceremony and
party Research legal requirements for marriage license in location where you will wed and add immediately
Select a date and time for the wedding
Select catering service, if not
to personal calendars
Arrange for parents to get together, perhaps at an engagement party or
provided by the reception site
reception sites and book them
informally over dinner Begin to compile guest list Discuss budget with everyone who may contribute financially; establish priorities, including honeymoon Interview potential wedding planners Select officiant and visit with him or
Visit www.stlouisbestbridal.com
(a popular location may book 18
to announce – for free – your
months in advance or only open
engagement online and in the local
reservations 12 months prior to date)
her to discuss wedding preparation and procedures Select catering service, if not provided by the reception site Visit www.stlouisbestbridal.com to announce – for free – your engagement online and in the local St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Narrow down ceremony and reception sites and book them (a popular location may book 18 months in advance or only open reservations 12 months prior to date) Close in on style, theme and colors FALL & WINTER 2018
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
Download the timeline to track your progress. StLouisBestBridal.com Planning Tools
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Close in on style, theme and colors
FALL & WINTER 2018
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29
6-9
MONTHS
Attend pre-wedding counseling as required or desired
Plan menus for rehearsal dinner
Arrange accommodations for
Have final fitting of wedding gown,
Select and order formal wear for
Book ceremony musicians and reception band or DJ Reserve party rental equipment
engraving or check for accuracy
Reserve location of rehearsal dinner out-of-town guests
Book photographer and videographer
Pick up wedding rings; arrange for
men; schedule fittings Complete registry Reserve wedding-day transporta-
(tables, chairs, tents, lighting)
tion as needed: to the church, from
Shop for and order bridal gown and
church to reception, from recep-
accessories
tion to after-party or where you will spend your wedding night Meet with travel agent to plan honeymoon and make reservations Secure travel documentation; renew/get passports
make alteration appointment
Have run-through of bridal hair (with headpiece, if applicable) and makeup; experiment now, not later Check that bridesmaids have arranged fittings for their gowns, groomsmen for tuxedos and shoes Draw up seating plan for ceremony and reception Submit song lists to ceremony musician and reception band or DJ Finalize plans with every wedding vendor, including photographer
2-4
MONTHS Select florist
Finish addressing invitations
Select bridesmaids’ dresses
Meet with caterer to discuss plans
Close in on final guest list, addresses
for food at the reception
Arrange wedding cake tastings, then
Complete honeymoon plans
order a favorite
If not already noted on calendars, fill
Research honeymoon spots and
in time for securing marriage license
select travel agent
(See ‘Sign on the Dotted Line’)
Mail save-the-date cards, especially
Set time for any bridal photography
for destination or holiday wedding
beyond the wedding day
Make master to-do list; keep copies
Select gifts for parents, attendants and each other Mail invitations six weeks before wedding, earlier if destination wedding or if many travel; design, test-drive map for out-of-towners
only with those who need to know
Decide on insurance policies and
Consider items for registry
name-change documents Write and order programs for
4-6
ceremony Attend bridal shower(s)
MONTHS
2-4
Select and order wedding rings Set appointments with hairstylist/
WEEKS
makeup consultant for rehearsal and wedding day Select gifts for attendants Choose favors and guest book Complete cake order, if necessary Book room for wedding night
Final gown alteration appointment; bring along maid of honor to learn to bustle it Prepare information to announce wedding after the big day at
Order wedding invitations, thankyou notes and personal stationery (earlier is better)
30
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4-8
WEEKS
www.stlouisbestbridal.com Write vows, if desired; write toasts Review guest list and provide caterer with final count
Finalize seating arrangements Finish place cards for reception Provide rehearsal and wedding-day schedules to the wedding party Arrange gift transport from reception Bride has last pre-wedding haircut and coloring Be certain names on photo IDs and/ or passports match honeymoon plane tickets/reservations Start packing for honeymoon, listing contents as you add items to suitcase Gather items for emergency kit Everyone: Break in shoes
1
WEEK Send out all final payments possible, place fees still due in envelopes Delegate responsibilities for the wedding day to reliable individuals Finalize rehearsal and rehearsal dinner; confirm attendance numbers Double-check details with vendors Confirm honeymoon details and finish packing Groom: Have hair trimmed Attend any remaining bachelor/ bachelorette party (hold earlier, if possible) Pass along any challenges that pop up at the last minute to those who can resolve them
YOUR BIG DAY Eat a healthy breakfast and drink lots of water to avoid dehydration from excitement. Try to take at least a little walk,
1-2 DAYS
play music or meditate to reduce stress. Double-check that you have all items you need, with backups just in case.
Get massage, manicure, pedicure;
Give groom’s wedding band to
purchase and pack extra nail polish
maid of honor and bride’s ring
in shade you are using for possible
to best man.
touch-up Pick up remaining rental attire Attend rehearsal and review all details with participants Enjoy rehearsal dinner, greet family
Write down any last-minute contingency plans that occur to you. Have hair and makeup done according to early plan.
and friends; present wedding party
Allow extra time to get dressed.
and parents with thank-you gifts
Make certain the best man
Get a good night’s sleep
and maid of honor sign the marriage license.
Allow extra time for the unexpected Follow schedule written last month. Allow 50 percent more time for travel. Take advantage of snacks and bottled water in the dressing area. Greet guests by name, be gracious and grateful. Smile, remain calm and do not let anything that goes differently than expected interfere with your joy Cherish each moment of this special day with your new life partner and those who gather to celebrate with you. If you leave early, say goodbye to parents and grandparents, .
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314.993.1100 | 1335 South Lindbergh Boulevard | St. Louis, Missouri | 63131 www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com
L OV E S TORY
Cassie & Alan DECEMBER 31, 2017
‘Cassie is never negative. She always lifts people up.’ STORY BY JANICE DENHAM
✿
PHOTOGRAPHY BY COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS
FALL & WINTER 2018
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33
‘You either grow together or you grow apart.’ Union Station in St. Louis was more a destina-
became her second family. “Alan worked nights,
outside, but I couldn’t feel how cold it was when
tion than a compromise for Cassie Murphy and
so we pretty much high-fived as I walked out and
I walked around that warning track,” Alan said
Alan Spencer’s wedding.
he walked in,” she said.
of the experience with his brother, also a huge Cardinals’ fan, and remaining “big troopers.”
Luckily, when Chicagoan Cassie started
With the house near completion in 2016,
college at the University of Arkansas in 2010,
Alan made their future union official as her family
They exchanged vows the second time in the
her dad was a White Sox fan, because Alan, then
visited Fayetteville’s annual Lights of the Ozarks.
terminal midway in front of an arch borrowed
a sophomore, rooted – loudly – for the St. Louis
“In the downtown square, there are impres-
from new local friends met while tailgating at a
Cardinals. They met at a fraternity rush event, but
sive Christmas lights, horse and carriage rides, a lit
Mizzou-Arkansas game. Mothers lit a unity candle
came to know each other better when they became
tree and a little bench area. She always wanted her
used by Cassie’s parents 30 years earlier. Sooie, the
isolated in his frat house during Snowpocalypse
family on hand for her engagement,” Alan said.
couple’s retrieved pit bull-corgi-dalmatian mutt,
When her family gathered for an annual
was flower girl. Cassie and her dad savored a view
in Fayetteville. “Both of us have big personalities, so we
holiday photo, he shuttled her aside to ask the big
of the Grand Hall before guests entered after
are both pretty bubbly and goofy and that drew
question. After that, the newly engaged groom-
cocktails in the Grand Staircase and Aquarium
each other,” Cassie said. It was an easy match
to-be and surprised bride-to-be joined a family
area. Champagne corks numbered tables and
for Alan, too. “I felt like I knew her even when
party in their honor at his parents’ home.
guests signed a photo of the couple’s dogs.
we first met,” he said.
“We had it in our heads that St. Louis would
The bride exchanged jeweled heels worn
be in the middle for a New Year’s Eve wedding,”
on her entry on the Grand Hall staircase for
said Cassie, fifth-grade teacher in the school her
cozy, fluffy slippers. They cut a glittery cake in
husband attended. Alan is a truck dispatcher for
Alan’s favorite flavor, Funfetti. Multiple sweets
Tyson Foods. While planning at Union Station,
included St. Louis doughnuts and pastries.
they grew dreams seeded before they met.
White Castle burgers and Jack in the Box tacos
“My mom and I never think small,” Cassie
were a 10 p.m. snack. Hats, noisemakers and
said. “Every crazy idea I had she never shut
props glamorized New Year’s Eve pictures with
down. Once it got more real, we pretty much
a sequined background.
made everything.
Cassie’s parents labeled and skirted flutes with
The couple exchanged intimate vows on
tulle for midnight champagne toasts during a
Dec. 23 in a small chapel of Cassie’s home parish
light show and fireworks on the ceiling. Alan
in Oak Forest, Ill. Her grandmother attended
liked Irish touches. A bagpiper met them after
before she passed away a month later. The Rev.
they were announced as husband and wife and
Joe Noonan officiated at both sets of vows.
they sang an Irish “Auld Lang Syne” at midnight.
The couple arrived Thursday in record-
Planes, trains and automobiles brought
breaking cold St. Louis temperatures for “a cool
350 guests from 17 states. “It meant so much
five days of celebrating.”
to us on, historically, the coldest weekend of
The bride-to-be added 21 close friends to five
winter,” Alan said.
Young love rolled along as each worked and
sisters as attendants. Alan matched 13 grooms-
The newlyweds savored memories big and
studied. Then came a major blip. Just after Cassie
men 2-to-1 to bridesmaids in a blend of both
small. Cassie pictured Alan in a tuxedo at the
graduated, Alan was diagnosed with cancer. She
lives. Winter Wonderland details, glittering in
altar. “I could see every person, too, who helped
embarked on a master’s degree in education and
navy and silver, arrived on cue in a dozen cars.
us get there that day.” The groom’s perspective
Alan’s chemo routine ebbed their joy as they
“I knew Cassie always wanted one big central
broadened to her entry on the staircase with new
supported each other. “You either grow together
place under the same roof in the same room at
life segments awaiting them in the future. “Cassie
or you grow apart,” Cassie said. “After that, we
the same time just for one night,” Alan said.
is never negative. She always lifts people up.”
While women prepared at the Union Station
Cassie anticipated new adventures with
Amid Alan’s recovery, they started to build a
Hotel, the dapper-looking men walked onto the
her husband, who plans a surprise destination
house. They moved in with his parents and they
field at Busch Stadium. “It was actually 4 degrees
honeymoon for them in June.
realized we could get through a lot.”
E S SE N T I A L S
finances
?
Wi l l e in our cane an pet b e? expens Who e n co trols th s? rd credit ca
Will all friends on our guest list overflow the venue - or the budget?
? What foods fits our plan?
What dream could we possibly give up?
Can we invite all the cousins as attendants?
Wh re c e p t i o a t i s c o nv e n s i t e looks d nient and i f fe r e n t ?
Organize to remain calm SET PRIORITIES, DECIDE WHO PAYS, LIST TRANSACTIONS
The process is not magical and heavenly
thoughtful consideration in a discussion
intervention should not be expected. From
between a couple and all parents or others who
start to finish, organization is imperative. A
will contribute payment. Compromise and
4
few management priorities help keep wedding
imaginative ideas save the day and progress
planning in check and on schedule.
toward an event everyone remembers with joy
and any other person responsible for making
and heartfelt fondness. Couples, particularly
1
Take time to think
part or all their wedding expenses. Parents may
Becoming married takes an “I do.”
play a less traditional role by paying for an
No rule about who pays for what is set in
item like flowers or offering a specific amount
stone. See our traditional lists on the next page
toward a single or total bill.
to see where your wedding may adapt.
3
2 36
older brides and grooms, often pay a major
➝
Sit down and decide Before setting plans in motion, decide
Make a spreadsheet List every item as it is decided. Organize
a spreadsheet to your taste. Color-code,
List every detail Not knowing what is due and when a bill
should be paid disorganizes bride and groom payments. Enter each item. Note how it is purchased ‒ by check, credit or cash. Was it paid online? List what it buys. Extra columns show how much is due, by when and how you expect to pay. Immediately list an expense when incurred and paid even in part, filling in appropriate columns with details.
5
Save all receipts Print out every receipt for the wedding
and designate a large envelope to hold them.
who can pay for what. Whether a couple is
divide, title it in any way that makes sense
Knowing where each nickel and dime goes
established or starting out, financial priori-
to you. Make a commitment to tracking
lets you envision the path your budget should
ties must be considered as the vision of this
expenses as you go. Thus, even if paperwork
follow. Receipts avoid overlooked minor
best-ever wedding unfolds. For smooth
is misplaced, your budget will stay up-to-the-
expenses. Even a few dollars misplaced here
planning, there should be give-and-take plus
minute electronically.
and there overruns a careful budget.
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Floral Designs Blooming ooming With Per PerFection
WHO PAYS FOR WH AT THE BRIDE AND HER FAMILY ✤
Clothes for bride and her parents
Wedding ring and gift for groom, gifts for bridesmaids ✤
Ceremony site, music, rented equipment such as arch and carpet ✤
Save-the-dates, invitations, programs, thank-you notes ✤
Bouquets for bridesmaids, corsages for grandmothers, flowers for ceremony and reception ✤
Photos by chosen Photography
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Reception expenses: site, decorations, food, drink, music, cake, favors, photo booth ✤
Transportation of wedding party and others as needed to various sites: preparation, ceremony, photo locations, reception, after-party ✤
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Wedding photography/videography
Accommodations for special out-of-town relatives/guests ✤
THE GROOM AND HIS FAMILY ✤
Rehearsal dinner
✤
Marriage license and officiant fee
✤
Clothing for groom and his family
✤
Wedding ring and gift for bride
✤
Gifts for groomsmen/ushers
Bride’s bouquet, mothers’ corsages, boutonnieres for groom, groomsmen, ushers and dads ✤
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Honeymoon arrangements
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E S SE N T I A L S
marriage license
LOC ATION TO CALL In Missouri FRANKLIN COUNTY 636-583-6367 Union JEFFERSON COUNTY 636-797-5414 Hillsboro LINCOLN COUNTY 636-528-0325 Troy ST. CHARLES COUNTY 636-949-7506 St. Charles ST. LOUIS CITY 314-622-3257 or 622-4527 St. Louis ST. LOUIS COUNTY 314-615-7180 Clayton WARREN COUNTY 636-456-9800 Warrenton
In Illinois MADISON COUNTY 618-692-6290 Edwardsville ST. CLAIR COUNTY 618-277-6600, ext. 2370 Belleville MONROE COUNTY 618-939-8681, ext. 302 Waterloo
Sign on
The dotted line LEGAL REQUIREMENTS TOP ‘TO-DO’ LIST. Before two people head to the ceremony and run off into matrimonial bliss, they must apply for a marriage license. A legitimate officiant will not marry a couple without one in hand. Rules vary between states, as marriage is considered a civil contract between a state and two people initiating it. Where a wedding is performed, not where the couple lives, determines where a license should be secured. If the ceremony destination is not Missouri or Illinois, it is easy to consult the website www.usmarriagelaws.com for any other state. Marriage license requirements change often by state, even between counties, so it is MOST important to verify ALL information with the local marriage license office or county clerk where you will be married before
passport, state ID or driver’s license, which
making wedding or travel plans. Each county
lists date of birth. Unless the Social Security
also directs its own schedule for a courthouse
number is on the ID, a Social Security card is
marriage by a judge.
also required in Missouri. A person without a Social Security number must sign a form of
Getting Married IN THE SHOW-ME STATE
but only in Missouri. The ceremony must take
parties be single and not blood-related. Recently
place within 30 days of the license being issued.
enacted legislation raised the minimum age to
If an individual is divorced, a final decree must
16 for a marriage license to be issued and that
be at least 30 days before application, although
16- and 17-year-olds receive parental permis-
some counties allow variations.
sion to be married. It also bars a person 21 or
JERSEY COUNTY 618-498-5571, ext. 112 Jerseyville
older from marrying anyone 17 or younger.
CLINTON COUNTY 618-594-6620 Carlyle
of deeds office in any Missouri county or the
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
The marriage license is valid in any county,
The state of Missouri requires that both
Before the ceremony, even on the same day, a couple must appear together at the recorder city of St. Louis. No blood tests are required. Each must show a valid form of government-issued identification, such as a current
38
verification.
A cash-only, non-refundable charge of about $50 must be paid with the application. For an extra fee, a certified certificate may be issued as proof of marriage or as a keepsake.
Nuptials IN THE LAND OF LINCOLN Getting married in Illinois differs on some
details. A couple still needs to be single, not related and at least 18 years old. Sixteenand 17-year-olds must have parental consent. No one under the age of 16 may be married.
WHO CAN OFFICIATE
Register NEW NAMES
Missouri and Illinois also differ in criteria for an officiant to fulfill these duties. According to the law, marriage may be performed in Missouri by any clergyman, active
Like its neighbor to the west, Illinois
or retired; a judge, municipal judge; a religious
requires a valid form of identification and
society, institution or organization of which
proof of age for both parties, who must be
either party is a member. Paperwork must be
present at the time of application – but only
returned within 15 days to the recorder issuing
in the county where they will be married.
it. In Illinois, an officiant may be an ordained
Before marrying, a couple should decide what names to use later. After the wedding, registering a new name on documents and records may require a certified marriage license and a proof of residence bearing current name and address. Check each authority’s specific needs.
Also, a waiting period of 24 hours is
minister, active or retired judge, or public
required after application. The license, how-
official empowered to perform marriage. The
ever, is valid for 60 days.
signed license with information filled out
BASIC SEVEN TO START
should be returned to the recorder of deeds
✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤
A certified decree of divorce, often within a recent time frame, may be required. Date of divorce or death of a spouse also may be requested.
within 90 days of issuance. If considering someone besides clergy or a public official to take charge, check
Charge for a marriage license varies by
with the county recorder of deeds where
county. For example, Madison County requires
you will be married to assure authoriza-
a non-refundable cash fee of $30.
tion-for-a-day will be valid.
Social Security card Driver’s license or state ID card Passport Bank accounts and checks Credit cards Insurance policies Post office address
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39
budget talk
E S SE N T I A L S
Money matters
BALANCE FUNDS, MANAGE WITH VISION HELD ON TOTAL SUM.
50%
RECEPTION
2-3%
CEREMONY Marriage license, site/officiant fees, aisle runner, canopy, candelabras, unity candle
Site fee, valet parking, catering costs, bar expenses (bartender & beverages), wedding cake, groom’s cake, cake cutter, cake topper, napkins, favors, decorations
7-10%
WEDDING ATTIRE Wedding gown/headpiece/veil/lingerie, hair and makeup, tuxedo, shoes, accessories, jewelry
6-8%
FLOWERS
4-6%
WEDDING RINGS Symbols to wear comfortably forever
Ceremony; bouquets for bride, attendants; boutonnieres; corsages for mothers, grandmothers, readers, special guests; Reception: centerpieces, cake topper (if using flowers) and bouquet to toss
2-3%
Bride and groom, attendants, parents
11-15%
4-5%
REHEARSAL
PHOTO & VIDEO
Site rental, food, beverage, tips
Engagement, videography, wedding, photo booth
4-6%
1-2%
MUSIC
Ceremony and reception, transition backdrop for single-venue wedding
EXTRAS
2-3%
STATIONERY
Announcements/save-the-date cards, invitations with envelopes and enclosures, programs, reception place cards, thank-you notes, postage 40
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
GIFTS
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2-3%
TRANSPORTATION
To ceremony, photos, reception, after-party, wedding night venue; provisions for special guests
Ice sculpture, mementos for guests, fees for on-location photos
BALLROOM. ROOFTOP TERRACE. SKYLINE VIEWS. CHOCOL ATE. CARAMELROOM.COM
314.615.2480
1600 N. BROADWAY SAINT LOUIS
MISSOURI
- A 23 CIT Y BLOCKS PROPERT Y -
63102
FA SHION
reflections
The style that fits BRIDE ENVISIONS WHAT TO WEAR IN 5 MIRRORED SHAPES.
42
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Gown shapes are as diverse as brides themselves. Multitudes of options balance unique contours for the short, the tall, the lean or curvy, so guests exclaim over how marvelous you look. Start in the gown shop. Try on gowns with someone along who is positively objective. Bring favorite ideas plus an open mind. A professional gown consultant’s expertise can draw a matching style into sight. Look in the mirror from all angles. Snap pictures and take notes to sort features that flatter or detract. Compare these five body shapes with yours.
PEAR
RECTANGLE
Hips, and perhaps thighs, are wider
Straight line extends from shoulders to waist
than shoulders. Simple vertical, rather
to hips. Exult in a long, lean line or create
than horizontal, lines evenly shape curves.
geometric roundness with an A-line, frothy
Build a base to discover a gown structured for
An off-the shoulder or “V” neckline
and flirtatious skirt or elevated empire waist
your desired look and comfort. Each design
frames the face. An A-line gown highlights
for more skirt flow. Off-the-shoulder styles
complements a bride’s normal silhouette, but
an indented natural waist so an added
widen a top tier. Illusion pieces with embroi-
a professional may shape a dream gown into a
detail, such as studded waistband or
dered lace play peekaboo with what may or
fit for never-ending applause.
flowing sash, accents the top and lets
may not hide under sheer fabric. A nipped
the skirt flow gracefully.
waist provides high and low canvases for artistic balance. New curves flow with soft, breezy fabric. A slit elongates a tall bride’s legs and contrasting sash trims a wide middle.
HOURGLASS
APPLE
INVERTED TRIANGLE
A defined waistline sits between hips and
Slimmer thighs counter a fuller chest,
Shoulders are wider than hips. A
shoulders similar in size. This figure indulges
broader shoulders and less defined waist.
scoop neckline outlines a lovely neck.
easy enhancement. All necklines seem to
The waistline, wherever drawn, grabs the
Off-shoulder draping minimizes a generous
work. Glamorize an indented waist and let
eye. An empire waist eases lower flow, but
bustline. Popular modesty and illusion
natural curves contour this figure-hugging
a cinched waist slenderizes the silhouette
pieces balance a slim bodice to move the eye
silhouette. A mermaid gown delights in the
to balance proportion. With or without
down neck-to-knee embellishment. A ball
line, a sheath accents it, a cinched waistline
sheer illusion, a deeply plunging neckline
gown with a full skirt encourages flow, but
on a ball gown poufs into double (or triple)
draws attention away from wide horizon-
a confident bride’s short gown or high-low
layering of fluffy tulle or other feminine
tal shoulders to flatter the bustline. A wide
skirt exudes fun with alluring attention to
froth, and a low-flaring style guides an
ribbon, slightly dropped waist, asymmetrical
shapely legs and spectacular shoes.
elongated central line.
pleating or ruching focuses waistline interest.
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43
5714 S Lindbergh Blvd St. Louis, MO 63123 314-351-2499
www.ClaricesBridal.com BRIDAL BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Romantic venue perfect for intimate receptions, rehearsal dinners, showers and celebrations
Accommodates Up to 50 Guests Seated Meals and Buffets Starting at $12 Contact our Event Manager at 314-963-3434 or events.cyranos@yahoo.com 44
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sunny splendor
FA S H ION
Grace in beauty Photography provided by THE ULTIMATE BRIDE
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A bride’s unique wedding gown fits her world today when romance invades her spirit, said Megan Ramsey, store manager of The Ultimate Bride. Exuberantly sharing her own personality, she plans to look wondrous, marvelous and delighted while sharing this day-ofday prelude to life with her husband. Gown designers cue up the imaginative adventure with twists of tradition and whimsy, vintage and contemporary style. Gowns in layers and peek-a-boo illusion pieces dip into shades of moscato, almond and champagne that flatter a bride’s warmer skin tones.
Previous page, For the love of sleeves with romantic flavor, lace applique overlays illusion in off-the-shoulder straps and bodice to the hip of the Katherine fit-and-flare gown by Essence of Australia. Repeats of lace applique again celebrate the swirling tulle and Regency organza skirt. Pearl buttons decorate the back of the bodice over illusion and at sleeve wrists. | Above, Romantic and effervescent, a Mori Lee long-sleeved ball gown of soft tulle concentrates detailed Alençon lace in back along the illusion neckline and center trimmed in covered buttons. Gored insets add fullness to the A-line skirt, again scattered with lace appliques, to fill a traditional aisle and party with lush movement. Its pearly moonstone-beaded net belt may be removed. 46
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Allover embroidery over net throughout a Mori Lee gown shows vintage inspiration in the Kasey A-line gown. Delicate and easy to wear, but showing a modern edge, the gown has a trim of delicate beading which becomes spaghetti straps and edges a notched illusion “V”-neck and open “V”-back. Its softly pleated skirt begins at the cinched waist and flows to a scalloped hem, strongly resembling lace, and chapel train. The embroidered dress comes lined, but an adventuresome bride may wear a see-through bodice.
FALL & WINTER 2018
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47
Left, A modified fit-and-flare gown by Stella York emphasizes a bride’s frame in all the right places. A bride’s glowing smile will be the focus above vertical lace on the bodice and beading under the bust of an empire waist. A sweep train highlights reembroidered lace along the skirt’s edge, in panels of a flaring skirt and on the molded bodice with sweetheart neckline. Drawstrings or zipper may close the back. | Right, Access Old Hollywood glamour in a modern A-line of form-flattering crepe from E ssence of Australia. Lace features add memorable punch on sleeves of illusion and in back with fabric-covered buttons dropping to lace, which is inset on the train and edges the hem. The front neckline plunges in a lace-edged “V” and clear beading adds subtle sparkle. If preferred, the gown comes sleeveless.
FALL & WINTER 2018
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Left, Easily shaped to fit body contours, a Stella York gown in figure-flattering crepe. Laser-cut lace on side cutouts defines the waistline and edge a chapel-length train. The effortless fabric offers a clean look with a touch of French-inspired lace. Glittery micro beading straps crisscross in back to meet above elegant fabric-covered buttons from back to train. | Above, Off-the-shoulder straps in modern lace add Old Hollywood subtlety and glamour to a lightly sparkling, bohemian-style gown by Stella York. Graphic floral lace contours an open back with fabric-covered buttons and covers the long bodice of the fit-and-flare gown. Laser-cut lace in a lattice design memorably edges the skirt and train.
FALL & WINTER 2018
ďƒŒ
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Left, Simple glamour envelops a classic bride in an Essence of Australia gown with off-the-shoulder sleeves and plunging sweetheart neckline. Romantic and elegant, the structured gown in luxurious silk Mikado hugs the hips until it flares effortlessly into a fuller skirt. Visible curved seaming helps form its hourglass shape. Back buttons run from top back to skirt bottom. A cathedral-length veil adds matching splendor | Above, A simply divine Stella York gown has elegant embellishment. The flattering A-line dress is full but lightweight in tulle for a traditional setting or outdoor event. Varying levels of lace, chantilly on bottom and reembroidered on top, form an interesting pattern and light sparkle glamorizes the bodice.
FALL & WINTER 2018
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F E ATUR E S
e t t e l Color Pa rich tones
Fall’s colors enrich the palette and lead into the cool season with
A person who cannot decide on which jewel tone would provide
warm hues. Jewel tones in colors that generate energy, plus greens,
the best effect might gaze into a mate’s eyes, then stick with tones
blues and purples with depth complement the emerging season. Gowns
that match them: sapphire, emerald or topaz. The same matching
for the women, both maids and moms, start the obvious color process
approach works to enhance skin tones.
as keystones for a wedding.
TURN OVER A NATURAL LEAF
JEWEL TONES
Nature draws the eye with oranges, reds, yellows, browns and
These colors mimic the bright, vibrant colors of favorite gemstones. Think ruby red, emerald green and the deep purple of
landscape greens. Katie Surkamp, manager of Clarice’s Bridal, noted that color depth provides the upcoming range.
amethyst. Wrap bridesmaids in these colors for stunning contrasts to
“Colors just feel so deep and lovely,” she said.
a white, ivory or champagne-colored bridal gown.
Tune in to names that relate directly to the world outdoors:
To reach a plateau farther, a bride steps out of the box and adds
hunter, heather, plum, eggplant, raspberry, wisteria, marine, truffle,
enchanting color to her own gown. This may be a distinctive feature
slate. For coffee emphasis, order latte as a color. Martini olive is
of the dress or subtly form a layer, frothy or finished, shouting with a
an offering of Pantone while still evolving with ultra violet as its
couple’s individuality on their big occasion.
2018 color of the year. If wine is a beverage of choice, champagne
latte
merlot claret
slate
54
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
persists in popularity, enouraged by colors called burgundy, merlot and claret. A lineup of bridesmaids in gowns of chocolate brown is
mimosa
stunning. Rose gold still shines. Bouquets and centerpieces literally translate the newly emerging or even seasonally silent landscape. Natural colors play well together
hunter
and lush greenery transforms indoor or outdoor decor into a velvety masterpiece.
CREATIVE GLITZ Glitz and glitter shine up a palette in these deep tones. Mesh fabrics flow independently or move to light up iridescent, changing surfaces. “Satin is also huge, with much less chiffon,” Surkamp added. She chose samples with reflective sequins and tiny beads completely covering a Mori Lee gown and two from Adrianna Papell’s Platinum Collection, one of them flaring with showy godet skirt panels. In
chocolate
simple, flowing style, a gown in slate blue is by Bill Levkoff. For sleek romance, Surkamp showcased a navy gown by Mori Lee and a dress in hunter green by Alfred Sung in the Dessy Group.
olive wisteria
heather
truffle
From left, Caviar mesh in bordeaux wine color, cap sleeves, A-line, low cutout back, by Morilee; crunchy style sequins on rose gold-colored mesh, off-the-shoulder sleeves, by Adrianna Papell; navy blue satin, straps convertible to off-the-shoulder, fit-andflare, by Morilee; blouson bodice, halter neckline, godet skirt in color merlot by Adrianna Papell.
Gowns provided by CLARICE’S BRIDAL Story by JANICE DENHAM and GREEN SHOOT MEDIA Photography by TROTTER PHOTO Color inspiration from VALSPAR, PANTONE
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fashion fit
F E ATUR E S
Lush Layers Photography by ALEX + SABINA PHOTOGRAPHY Made in USA Gowns and Photos provided by WEDDING GALLERY
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The look is luxurious, style and fabrics are international and shapes fit body contours. Each elegant gown is made in the Metropolitan St. Louis area by Wedding Gallery exclusively for its collections. Made-in-USA gowns are unique and available ready to wear. Left, A champagne-colored ball gown with sweetheart neckline from the Treasures Collection features a bodice of embroidered lace that is corded and beaded. From a natural waistline with beaded sash flows a skirt with multiple layers of tulle and sequins shining underneath. Its chapel-length train follows. Above, A soft look from the Beau Monde Couture Collection befits a fit-and-flare mesh gown with floral lace and sequined layer hinting with charm under the lace. A hand-beaded bodice shows an alluring front “V” neckline with straps and dips low in back. Hem lace circles continuously.
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Left, Getting into the swing, an A-line gown from the Treasures Collection of Wedding Gallery is envisioned and available in ivory. Under a sweetheart neckline, the bodice with soft beaded lace stops with a ribbon sash at the natural waist. Two layers of tulle, one with reflective sequins, top lace mesh. Above, A dropped waistline allows space for the outstanding look of hand-beaded lace applique on a “V” neckline both front and back and straps on an easy-to-wear design from the Simply Charming Couture Collection. Mesh is the soft and figure-flattering base fabric with sequins sneaking their glow onto layers of tulle for an A-line skirt and cathedral-length train.
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A dreamy ball gown from the Beau Monde Couture Collection of Wedding Gallery attracts attention. Whimsical layers of soft lace over hand-embroidered sequined lace allow champagne color to show through. Lace appliques are embroidered and hand-beaded on a strapless bodice with sweetheart neckline. The beaded lace matches continuously on the skirt’s hem and a train of semi-cathedral length.
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Your Day. Your Dream Dress. Proudly made in the USA.
Designer Couture Wedding gowns To make every brides’ dream come true Proudly made in our local factory here in St. Louis Ask about our Peace Of Mind option
St. Charles 425 Clark Street St. Charles, MO 63301
The Outlet 801 North 2nd Street St. Charles, MO 63301
St. Louis 4164 Chippewa St. Louis, MO 63116
636-724-7038
636-724-9012
314-219-8700
www.weddinggalleryweb.com
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F E ATUR E S
pamper, renew
Start at the top with massage to relax and renew the entire mind and body before a wedding.
Glamorous glow Story by JANICE DENHAM | Photography provided by WELLBRIDGE ATHLETIC CLUB & SPA
Enthusiasm and spirit remain high for your
A local spa or health facility creates an oasis
layers of the body, including muscles, joints and
upcoming wedding. All the same, the rushing,
of calm. Individual and group packages may
connective tissues. The ancient art of therapy
the decisions, the late-night thinking – and even
include manicures, pedicures, massages, facials
using heated stones is a popular option as a full
the parties – wear down the body and upend the
and other services to help relax and renew body
body massage, too, for a soothing, nurturing,
balance of people pushing to ready everything
and mind. The treatment most requested for a
and grounding experience. Specific areas, such as
for the big day. Take a deep breath. Wellbridge
bridal party at Wellbridge, according to Sanders,
scalp or hands and feet, can be added to elevate
Athletic Club & Spa in Clayton has suggested
is a massage. Manicures and pedicures follow in
that feel-good perspective.
ways to regain equilibrium to better appreciate
popularity for both men and women. Massage relaxes muscles and helps calm the
all the surrounding excitement.
PAMPERING CALMS, RENEWS Everyone likes to be pampered. Enjoy some down time at the spa with friends and family
Don’t wait until the last minute to think
to toe. It improves blood circulation to help all
about skin – for a woman or a gentleman. A
parts of the body stay physically and emotion-
glowing complexion puts its best face forward
ally balanced.
in engagement photos, but certainly forecasts
Don’t be afraid to try something new.
to stay healthy and lighten stress, urged spa director Andree Sanders. Newlyweds-to-be
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SKIN TO ADMIRE
whole body for a state of relaxation from head
Results may start a whole new routine.
glowing, amazing skin on the big day. Always, always wear sunscreen to avoid sun
find it a perfect way to prepare for the big day
For instance, Wellbridge offers classic
damage, recommended Jool Guest, aesthetician
individually or together, but it also renews and
Swedish full-body massage tailored to meet
at Wellbridge. Apply it 20 to 30 minutes before
forges relationships when it includes the bridal
specific needs. These can range from 35 to 80
going outdoors and reapply every three hours
party – and even future in-laws.
minutes. Deep tissue massage targets deeper
while outdoors, every hour or two when the body
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Lawrence Florist
Congratulations on Your Wedding engagement! for your spECial Day, sElECt
is exposed to a lot of sun and perspiring heavily. Guest adds a reminder to cover all exposed areas, including ears, eyelids, lips and other commonly missed areas.
SET A SCHEDULE Guest suggested a time line for skin support
Wedding FloWers & Accessories
est. 1961
exCeeding our bride’s expeCtations for 50 Years
free Toss Bouquet (a $30 value) with your wedding flower order
Call 636-724-9050 for your frEE Consultation.
927 North Second Street St. Charles, MO. 63301 www.lawrenceflorist.biz • www.lawrenceflorist.net
before a wedding: 6 months (at least): Start a series of skin treatments to get skin in peak performance. A wedding is the perfect excuse to spoil oneself with a monthly facial, where a licensed aesthetician can deep-cleanse, exfoliate and make any necessary extractions to skin. A massage of
CONNECT WITH US:
the face and décolletage area stimulates blood circulation and keeps skin looking flawless. Consult with the professional for advice on a skin-care routine to keep skin glowing, firm and hydrated. 4-5 months: Focus on biggest concerns,
Visit us: WWW.STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM Like us: FACEBOOK.COM/STLOUISBESTBRIDAL Follow us: T WIT TER.COM/STLBESTBRIDAL Pin with us: PINTEREST.COM/STLBESTBRIDAL
particularly fine lines, breakouts and sun damage. A scheduled series of peel or resurfacer treatments, along with monthly facials, helps slough off dead skin cells for deeper exfoliation and brings fresh, smooth skin to the surface. Discuss dermaplaning with an aesthetician as an option for removing the epidermis and ridding the skin of fine vellus hair, or “peach fuzz.” Unlike waxing, where warm melted wax is applied to the skin and unwanted hair is lifted away with a wax removal strip, dermaplaning is preferred treatment for people with sensitive skin, allergies or sensitivity to chemical peels. Guest explained that it leaves the skin brighter, smoother and more youthful. 2-3 months: Watch for breakouts triggered by stress hormones. Spot treat as needed with a product for that purpose. 1 month: Schedule a final skin treatment four to five days before the wedding. Avoiding extreme measures, this treatment should concentrate on gentle cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing. 1 day: Devote the day to makeup and hair, stay hydrated and take along an emergency skin-care kit packed in advance.
www.SamiGPhotography.com
314.703.3904
SamiGPhotography@gmail.com
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F E ATUR E S
face-forward
Beauty accents By JANICE DENHAM
Photo by TROTTER PHOTO
Every bride wants to shine her prettiest
‘SOFT’ SENSES ‘DRAMATIC’
smile in her own beautiful way, so she enhances herself with accents.
A bride’s natural beauty holds the key on the starting pad. Turn it on with a little pink
She wants to earn a B.A. degree for Beauty
to achieve a slight flush. McFerson is likely to
match lipstick, so if a bride has a bold-red type of personality, that trait will color nails, too.
DETERMINE COURSE EARLY
Accents on her wedding day. With the com-
define the eyebrow to allow the eye to open,
panion of her future alongside, she picks out
rather than boldface it for drama. The same
basic locations and dress to personalize.
goes for lashes and even lash extensions. There
ing to direct “the look” – for both bride and
should be just enough to let the bride’s beauti-
groom – is six months before the wedding day.
ful eyes “pop” on photos, she claimed.
Try out looks. Decide a direction, then tweak
Morgan Drawe McFerson, manager and bridal specialist at Belleza Bridal and Hair Salon, said a wise consultant is flexible. “Styles change quickly and she can help
“When false lashes are used for that ‘pop,’ the rest of the face can be downplayed to
Recommendation for finding and start-
it earlier than later. At the outset, a bride should bring pictures
determine them, but she also needs to uncover
enhance a simple, ‘fresh-face’ look. A little
of the hair and makeup looks she loves to a
what the bride is looking for. That is our job,”
shimmer with a rosy dew look brings out
specialist she is considering. If the prospect
she said.
natural beauty. Shadow powders are trending
does not ask about her gown and other details,
now with nude and more neutral eye shadow
move on to try another more interested in cor-
powders. Colors sound less flamboyant, names
relating her expertise with the bride’s persona.
She described the many looks that today’s brides envision. “There is the bride who wants fun, with a finger wave curl on her hair and bright red on
ranging more like rose, pink, blush, latte, mauve and brown and beige.”
her lips. Then, you have someone who wants a classic look, something soft and subtle,
Consider desired hair color at this time, too, to avoid damage and surprises later. Hair is a hot topic to plan maintenance to improve
POINT TO A MATCH McFerson said many brides have fun with
her hair down and decorated with a clip.
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She added a disclaimer. Nail color will
its quality, if extensions are needed or what details might complete the wedding-day plan.
There also is the romantic bride with her hair
their nails, but brush them in a softer base
Brows can be part of this exploration. Future
braided and more pink and champagne color-
shade of pink. Then, that ring finger stands
appointments should be reserved when the
ing her life and her lips.”
out to show “the hand in a ton of pictures.”
newly-minted “team” is set to direct its moves.
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Assessing a groom’s skin and hair reinforces his important role in the wedding, too. This might be the first time he ever has
style, because “hair is hair and the most amazing curls will fall after a while.” The goal should be atwo-fold: admiring
the veil with a clip after the ceremony.” Silk or real flowers offer another decorative option. A clip chosen to be made from a
been pampered with deliberate consideration
the bride’s face when she exchanges vows with
brooch, with or without flowers attached, may
– and ultimately love it and want to continue
her husband and seeing it again smiling in
provide sentimental meaning in the traditional
it with his bride after the wedding.
photos afterward. Strategically meshing both
role of something “old,” “borrowed” or “blue.”
ideas may forecast hair tactfully, yet function-
When not made from an heirloom, it can
ally, hidden with pins on the sides.
fulfill the “new” slot.
Most salons that cater to women as brides are pleased to assist the groom, too. Belleza, taking another step, has incorporated a barbershop into its design, service and party space.
MATCHING DETAILS A bride who wants a spotlight to settle on her lovely self may have chosen a dress that diverts attention from an extra tattoo or scar. McFerson pointed out that airbrush makeup can help cover – to a degree – what might still be obvious. However, airbrush makeup is intended for 12-hour use, so she warns against applying it where it will rub against the gown because the contact may cause a stain. If the dress is still to be chosen, she urges the future bride to consider a style which attracts the eye to other positive elements. For instance, a high neckline with an ornate top and hair styled so it does not conflict with the dress draws the eye upward to the bride’s excited, happy face.
THUMBS-UP FOR HAIR Seasonal shifts may determine how hair is worn at a wedding in St. Louis, said the specialist. Summer and spring brides
Of course, she added, there always will be
usually want it up and off the neck, still
a bride who prefers a casual, bohemian edge to
softly curled and with decorative features
her look, keeping it soft but not every hair in
to hold them.
a specific spot.
“We follow what a bride wants, but we
And, she added as a helpful reminder,
recommend that she have her hair in a place
there is space in the world of wedding hair
where it will stay all day so she doesn’t have to
and makeup for her, too.
worry about it with dancing, moving, heat and humidity,” McFerson said. A bride’s choice of hairstyle is a cer-
TOPPERS AND FLOWERS “We still see a ton of veils,” McFerson said,
tain sign of changing seasons. In October,
“but lots of other brides also opt for a decora-
November or December, brides who come to
tive clip or more of a leaf with crystals on it.
Belleza usually plan to wear it down. She sug-
They wear it in many ways. They might use it
gested securing curls, even with an all-down
instead of a veil and keep it there, or replace
Above, A bride usually prepares for her wedding by putting herself in the hands of an experienced specialist who can guide the bride’s major design with details of makeup and prowess with hair. Left, Rachel Rosenquist, bridal assistant at Belleza Bridal and Hair Salon, extended the glamour without overstating the eyes of April Tyus-Myles as she prepared to model for the cover of the fall-winter issue of St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine. Photos provided by BELLEZA BRIDAL AND HAIR SALON
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FA SHION
accessories
Decorative sparkle A world of modern accessories encourages a bride to stand out in a unique role as honoree as well as host. Her glowing confidence puts guests at ease. Jewelry from Belleza’s exclusive boutique is not always a perfect “set,” said bridal assistant Rachel Rosenquist, but chosen as part of an assortment of “pretty things” to highlight styles and create a memorable impression. Combs are favorites anywhere in the hair: in the back of a full updo, hair all the way down with one side swept back or in the side or back of a half-up, half-down style secured, if necessary, with bobby pins. Rosenquist called the hairstyle at right “vintage waves” in a Hollywood style.
Right, Jewelry should ramp up glow and glamour without overpowering the total look. The specialist suggests that “statement” earrings, like these in popular rose gold, speak strongly for the day’s look, so the neck can be left bare or minimally covered with a necklace. A bracelet shines, albeit modestly, in narrow strands. Photos provided by BELLEZA BRIDAL AND HAIR SALON
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BIG BOW EVENTS
CELEBRATE
YOUR
STYLE
Unwrap Your Dreams! CREATING CUSTOMIZED 1 STOP PACKAGES FOR EACH CLIENT.
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Decor + Floral
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Ceremony + Reception
Call to visit us: 314-546-9172 www.BIGBOWEVENTS.net
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©2018 DAVID’S BRIDAL
the adventure begins Make it a day to remember. Visit davidsbridal.com or call 877.923.2743 for an appointment.
ST. PETERS, MO / FAIRVIEW, IL / SUNSET HILLS, MO
L OV E S TORY
Danielle & Miguel MARCH 31, 2018
‘In the end, I just wanted her to be happy.’ STORY BY JANICE DENHAM
✿
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STRIKE A POSE PHOTOGRAPHY
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‘Family matters as much to him as it does to me.’ Danielle Merlati and Miguel Rios were
“There was never a light bulb,” Danielle said.
Their parents draped them in a Mexican lasso
13-year-olds in, appropriately, Spanish class. It
“We thought we just wanted to be together and,
(lazo) of bejeweled pearls symbolizing their linked
was 2006 at Crestview Middle School in Ellisville.
if that works, it should be forever.”
future. They presented flowers to the mothers,
“He was easygoing, funny, fun to be with.
Buying a house in Gray Summit in late 2016
We just always could have a good time,” Danielle
prompted Miguel’s proposal. He picked a ring by
said about their first dates as freshmen in high
favorites she had saved on her phone.
two grandmothers attending and at Mary’s statue, a custom in common. Fabric on the ring bearer’s pillow came from
school. Her “big, beautiful smile and beautiful
“He asked my dad for his blessing while they
shirts of the bride’s deceased grandfathers and a
eyes” were more than Miguel, who had been born
were building a fence for our dogs in March of
table held memories of them and an aunt. The
in Mexico, could resist. He immediately fell in
2017,” Danielle said. “We invited both families
bridal bouquet’s flowers held a piece of fabric
love with her.
over to see the house. It was Miguel’s birthday
from the first communion dress Danielle’s
The relationship grew as they did.
that day and my mom’s 60th a few days before, so
grandmother had made for her.
They were a couple at ball games, school
I teased his family when they showed up without
dances and he watched her perform in musical events. Living five minutes apart offered easy connections. Her mom drove them to go
my favorite Mexican beer, Modela.” Miguel and his brother returned with beverages – plus a mariachi band.
After the service, they headed to Forest Park during the only rain-free time of the day, so the eight umbrellas Danielle packed were unused. Music and dancing invited everyone to join the
bowling or attend school activities. Although
“It took a lot of planning and finding all the
international fun at the reception at DoubleTree
all the parents were friends, Danielle’s late-night
parts, but it all fit together perfectly. She was
by Hilton Hotel St. Louis-Chesterfield. The
totally surprised,” he said in happy conclusion.
mariachi band, in traditional ensembles, wound
Danielle never doubted her reaction. “He
festive music around guests during cocktails, and
brings true happiness to my world. He makes
The bride and groom initiated dancing
does to me,” she said. Miguel pointed to their
with “This Magic Moment.” Danielle said, “My
balance. Danielle’s seriousness in caring for moms
memory of the wedding is the sheer happiness
and their newborns “brings out a part of me that
of that day. Everyone was dancing.”
usually doesn’t show.”
order to go to bed.
A “snake dance” started with the couple on
November wedding plans were delayed until
chairs hoisted high, the groom holding the bride’s
March 31, 2018, so her dad would heal from heart
veil. “Women hold hands and wind around first
surgery and walk her down the aisle. “Pushing it
and try to break the hold. Then the guys run into
back made it all the better!” exclaimed Danielle.
the groom. It gets kind of rowdy, but everyone
For a new Easter weekend date, they switched to
has fun,” Danielle explained.
St. Stanislaus Kostka Church to exchange vows
Miguel nervously let friends toss him in the
and mesh elements in their pan-American merger.
air. Guests pinned money to the newlyweds’
Since high school, Danielle had shared
conversations with Miguel drew her mom’s stern
serenaded them during dinner.
me laugh. Family matters as much to him as it
clothes in a Mexican-style dollar dance.
wedding dreams with Miguel. He said, “We
They cut a two-layer cake topped with a figure
would have to look at both our cultures. In the
resembling them and their dogs. Guests selected
end, I just wanted her to be happy.”
a variety of sweets, including candy and dulce de
Each wore new boots. Danielle carried her great-grandmother’s handkerchief. Jewelry
tres leches, an extra-rich Mexican cake tradition. Each had happy memories of the day.
After senior prom, Miguel joined his dad’s
accents from their parents matched the bride’s
“The joy started when I walked down the aisle
landscaping business and Danielle studied for
theme of purple, her favorite color. Her purse
with my dad and I saw Miguel’s smile,” the bride
nursing school and worked at a supermarket.
and veil were used by her sister when Danielle,
recalled. Placing a ring on each other’s hand was
Schedules and jobs left little time together, but
age 8, was her attendant. Miguel bought his hat
significant for the groom. “I haven’t taken mine off
they gradually realized marriage would be their
and boots in Chicago to go with formal wear.
since the wedding,” he said of jewelry he expected
mutual future.
Each spoke vows in his or her first language.
to put aside due to his outdoor work.
WEDDING DELIGHTS. At our floral design center, our professional designers are dedicated to bringing your dream wedding to life. Your special events coordinator will help you with varieties, colors and trends. From elegant to extravagant, your special day is our top priority! To make an appointment, call (314) 997-2444.
schnucksfloral.com
Š2018 Schnucks
artful blooms
ON T H E COV E R
Bouquet bliss
Pink proteas stand sublime amid lavender and blush pink roses, fluffy white wax flowers and pink veronica placed in a fresh-looking bouquet by ALWAYS IN BLOOM.
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Favorite colors emit wedding-day joy. LAWRENCE FLORIST unlocks them with white hydrangeas and creamy Quicksand roses, burgundy astilbe, baby blue eucalyptus, white hypericum berries and green Italian ruscus.
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Orange sherbet and bluish-pink roses, orange callas and cream-colored hypericum berries light up a bouquet from ALWAYS IN BLOOM. Safari Sunset leucadendron, blue mountain thistle eryngium and gold-sprayed seeded eucalyptus double the contrasting colors and textures.
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Kale, a bromeliad and croton are hot picks in a WALTER KNOLL FLORIST design in step with pink freesia, red hypericum berries, yellow ranunculus and salal leaves. Black and white stripes contribute a contemporary handle to the tropical look.
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Sunflowers and yellow solidago turn on year-round brights. Monte Casino asters relax with white star-shaped whimsy and Aussie greens, tree fern, seeded eucalyptus and delicate spikes of lily grass in a garden medley picked by WALTER KNOLL FLORIST.
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Dark purple lisianthus and Cool Water roses up the payload of pink-purple tones amid white cymbidium orchids, lavender aelstoemeria and ornamental cabbage. LAWRENCE FLORIST tempers the explosion with dusty miller, gray brunia berries and pearl-studded gray satin handle.
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For the white enthusiast, WALTER KNOLL FLORIST offsets brilliant hydrangea and Escimo roses with warm dusty miller and green Israeli ruskus. White satin wraps up multi-hued stems.
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Optimism finds its bright match in a WALTER KNOLL FLORIST bouquet. Orange gerbera daisies and spray roses boldly shine amid yellow dahlias, ranunculus, cottage yarrow and craspedia billy buttons. White hydrangea and Israeli ruskus anchor colors.
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Warm and lush, pink mink protea, pink and red roses, burgundy carnations, burgundy scabiosa and hanging pepper berry glamorize a bouquet by SCHNUCKS FLORAL AND GIFTS. Chenille flowers drop toward feather eucalyptus and silver eucalyptus in a cascading shape.
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Slightly wild and wistfully wonderful, a LAWRENCE FLORIST bouquet is sized with ornamental kale, pink dahlias, white brunia berries and Porcelina spray roses. Tendrils of pink veronica and seeded eucalyptus hang lightly with the softness of dusty miller.
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bouquets
FLOWERS
Perfect
PETALS A single variety or multiple stems provide tone, texture and style for a look of confidence on that perfect day. In-season blooms are generally more attractive in price, but worldwide availability may fly a flower of the heart straight to your bouquet. ALWAYS IN BLOOM captures nature’s variety: 1. sunflower; 2. yellow Viking poms; 3. pink cream carnation; 4. purple stock; 5. orange calla lily; 6. purple alstroemeria, 7. pink spray roses.; 8. dark blush rose; 9. salal leaves.
1 4
8
2 5 3
6
7
9
Amaryllis Anemone Apple blossom Aster Baby’s breath Bachelor’s button Bluebell Buttercup Calla lily Carnation Cherry blossom Chinese lantern Chrysanthemum Clematis Cosmos Craspedia (billy balls) Daffodil Dahlia Delphinium Dusty Miller Forget-me-not Forsythia Freesia Fuchsia Gardenia Gerbera daisy Hyacinth Hydrangea Hypericum berries Iris Jasmine Lilac Lily of the valley Leucadrendron Orchid Pansy Paperwhite Peony Poppy Protea Queen Anne’s lace Ranunculus Rose Scabiosa Seeded eucalyptus Snowdrop Stargazer lily Sunflower Sweet pea Tuberose Tulip Veronica Viburnum Violet Winterberry Yarrow Zinnia
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‘Magical’ Ireland hosts O’Mara wedding
Oh where, oh where shall our wedding be? Eureka Springs or Tower
been astronomical here.” Jessica searched Irish venues for three months to discover a single
Grove Park, Italy or Ireland? James O’Mara of Florissant and Jessica Bakker, who grew up in St. Charles, accepted the challenge when they were engaged in October 2015.
destination where everybody could stay together for two nights and avoid hotel-to-wedding shuttles. Ballymagarvey Village was the answer.
“Back before I even met Jess,” James said, “My grandparents gave their
Leaving a two-year engagement window, they sent save-the-dates more
children a Christmas present of a trip there, so my father took my sister and
than a year ahead of their Oct. 10, 2017, wedding to allow guests time to
me in 2008 to Ireland to visit our ancestors’ home towns.”
schedule vacation, save time and money, secure passports and arrange family
Jessica was not adamant about a wedding site.
trips. About the time they mailed them, a friend referred them to Travel
“James is very romantic and his family is quite large, while mine is very
Haus of St. Louis for coordination.
small,” she explained. “I could have married on courthouse steps like my
“We wanted to be certain everyone had a go-to source so they could call
mom was. Having a smaller wedding at a destination allowed us to have
someone,” James said. The travel agency, a specialist in honeymoons and
the higher quality level of food and a venue that we wanted but would have
destination events, arranged everyone’s transportation to Ireland and the
By JANICE DENHAM | Photos by AWAKE AND DREAMING PHOTOGRAPHY
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45-minute trip from Dublin to Ballymagarvey, a private country estate. Their Travel Haus specialist, Rachel Madigan, also arranged to have a bus available for convenient and flexible touring over three days and blocked rooms for guests to stay in Dublin beyond two nights in the countryside. The bride and groom left for Ireland on Wednesday before their Tuesday wedding to tend last-minute details and compensate for jet lag. Jessica and James, who stayed in the Dublin area 11 days, answered questions about the long-distance planning for their 10/10 wedding. Why a travel agent: “It was nice to know someone would be there to fix any hiccups – even though there weren’t any,” Jessica said. Almost all 42 guests came from St. Louis or Kansas City. The maid of honor booked the last leg of her trip from Hawaii to Dublin to fly with the newlyweds-to-be. Style of wedding: “We wanted it classic. Having only a maid of honor and best man allowed us to give the best man his tux, shoes, whole outfit for a match. The maid of honor, a girlfriend, picked her own dress in black. We gifted her all the hair and makeup preparation.” Real marriage: “The United States recognizes an Irish wedding license. On our single trip to Ireland a year in advance, we met with the registrar in Dublin to set everything up so it would work in County Meath. We only needed birth certificates sealed by Missouri and passports, no blood tests. A religious ceremony or previous marriage requires a lot more paperwork.”
ABC tips from Mike Mike Schellhase, owner of Travel Haus of St. Louis
A. Why use a travel agent to plan a destination wedding?
Daily relationships with wedding planners, resorts and destinations take care and concern out of worry about timing and details.
B. Where are today’s prime destinations from the Midwest?
1. Mexico leads. 2. Jamaica. 3. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
C. What timing works best?
Set sight on a plan 11 to 14 months before the date, especially in the busy months of October, September and May.
D. What should a couple know for best advice and inspiration?
1. How many will go? Will children attend? This helps match destination and resort. 2. Will the ceremony be symbolic (highest percentage, with legal ceremony in United States) or civil (married under laws of the destination country)?
E. What kind of destination should we choose? Details: “Ballymagarvey is very inclusive as a wedding site. We did a
What fits the two of you? Plan like it will be a vacation-for-two.
lot like choose a DJ on Skype, even from our cell phones, at convenient times. We already had selected wonderful food from all the options that their private chef makes and picked favorite flowers when we got there.” Last-minute plans: Jessica’s mom, in charge of the wedding dress, hung it in the captain’s closet of the plane without a wrinkle. An Instagram contact referred them to a Dublin stylist who came for wedding-day hair and makeup. James’ mother gathered mementos for all-Irish gift bags. Results: “It was a dream wedding. Everything played out perfectly. A friend said she wants to convince her daughter to be married there, too!”
CALL FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION
(314) 842-6000 1129 Concord Village Ave., St. Louis, MO 63123 www.travelhaus.com
Travel Haus is a full-service travel agency which has specialized in destination weddings and honeymoons since 1993.
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
L OV E S TORY
Nick & Joe JUNE 23, 2017
‘Joe is the sunshine coming out after a rainy day.’ STORY BY JANICE DENHAM
✿
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TROTTER PHOTO
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‘I felt the love in the room. … We felt so supported.’ It took a few months for Joe Schoen and
other’s family, too. Nick, an only child, said, “I
classic black. Red roses decorated tables, each with
Nick Simaku to meet in person. Their first date
quickly went from being the favorite in my family
a different musical theater theme. Musicians were
celebrated Nick’s birthday on Jan. 2, 2013.
to Joe being the favorite.” Joe said his family,
personal friends and colleagues. Tim Brennan
including five older brothers and a crew of nieces
– friend, owner and master baker of Cravings
and nephews, soon felt the same about Nick.
Restaurant – paid sweet-tooth homage with a
Nick, then a student at St. Louis College of Pharmacy, said, “Joe emailed to wish me a
rose-bedecked cake of Victorian sponge with
happy new year and asked what I was doing for
Deciding to find a place together, they moved
my birthday the next day. When I told him my
into the basement of Nick’s dad’s home when
friends were gone and there wouldn’t be much
Joe’s house unexpectedly sold in only three days.
Joe said, “I can sing and play music for others,
going on, he said that was unacceptable.”
Taking a year to find one that suited them in
but when I saw Nick, I was so happy that my
south St. Louis County resulted in “adjustments”
speaking became very emotional.”
They planned to have lunch, then take in a movie, but midday conversation flowed, so they
to their relationship, they said.
skipped the movie and moved straight to dinner –
Nick gave up on an engagement surprise
and more talk. “We connected,” Joe summarized.
after a mystery trip to Chicago did not produce
Nick said, “We just really clicked.”
English buttercream icing.
For the ceremony entrance, each walked up with his parent or parents to meet the officiant together. They wrote the ceremony and vows.
a proposal for his January birthday in 2016.
No dry eye remained when each of Joe’s
Nick was a serious science student at St.
Instead, Joe’s engagement goal was a long-planned
brothers made a short speech before the vow
Louis College of Pharmacy. Outgoing Joe
Caribbean cruise to Turks and Caicos Islands
exchange. “My father died when I was a year old,”
during spring break in March.
Joe explained. “My mother gave me his wedding
“I was oblivious,” Nick admitted.
ring. During the vows, each of my brothers held
An attempt for couple photos for their home
the ring and said something in memory of our
was the excuse. The onboard photographer drew
father. Then they handed Nick the ring.”
Nick’s attention long enough for Joe to drop
Joe said, “I felt the love in the room. Smiles
traditionally to one knee. Results were positive.
filled the faces of everybody. We felt so supported.
They found a house with a pool and moved
It was important for me and for Nick to feel that.”
by July. Their nonchalance uncovered no one to
A total of 280 guests attended the reception.
play the role of wedding planner, so they went
“Unlike the usual 10 percent who don’t come, we
into action. Their top priority, a single venue that
only had one who couldn’t make it,” Joe added
would perform like a theater for both ceremony
as an asterisk on their playbill.
and reception, prompted the June 2018 date.
Guests danced to the live music of Gene
They found The Franklin Room with its
Jackson and the Powerplay Band. For their first
stage. “Then, we turned it into a theater,” Joe
dance, Joe and Nick reenacted “Time of My Life“
said. Before the curtain opened on a 5:30 p.m.
from the movie, “Dirty Dancing.” They practiced
ceremony for close friends and relatives, they
the jump and lift behind the scenes just before
dedicated the afternoon to outdoor photos at The
the opening notes. Summing up the effect, Nick
Muny and The Fabulous Fox and in Forest Park.
said, “It was a hoot.” Joe told the happy results
Joe said, “We made it a full Broadway music
of the celebration, “Friends were singing and the dance floor was full the entire night.”
taught music in the Kirkwood School District
theme and chose all the musicals. Invitations were
and filled positions in local theater.
a Broadway playbill and the reply was a ticket
Nick said the day could not have produced
to the show. Everything we did was done on
“a better combination. It was the love we felt
our own.”
among everyone and knowing I was marrying my
Theater and music became a common theme. Each had eagerly participated in productions as
best friend that day. Joe is the sunshine coming
students at all-boys’ high schools. They respected
They staged an “opening night” scene for
and complemented each other, one as a free spirit
guests to enter on a red carpet with a paparazzi
and the other as a grounding element. Soon, they
atmosphere. Celebrants produced a photo
Their next stop was Maui, Hawaii, where
considered themselves a “forever” team.
backdrop reading, “Joe and Nick in The Wedding.”
they saw the sun rise without a raindrop from
The cast of Nick, Joe and attendants dressed in
Mount Haleakala.
Being together a lot drew them to each
out after a rainy day.”
ON T HE COV E R
edible art
Sweet success Story by JANICE DENHAM | Cakes by SUGARBELLE CAKERY
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Buttercream tinted cornflower blue peeks through a semi-naked cake for tempting interest. Zelasko spreads light rose color of fresh flowers to French macarons and white chocolate sails and concentrates a little more color at the edge of the bottom layer and flecks a bit of silver leaf over it. Photo courtesy of Sugarbelle Cakery at Sugar Creek, New Haven. Previous page, A stately three-tiered cake iced in fondant is dressed up with swiss dots (groom’s request), edible gold brush embroidery, sugar flowers and artsy muted purple watercolor on the bottom layer. Sugarbelle Cakery’s dessert bar for the event includes chocolate Oreo shooters, berry-topped cheesecake shooters, mini apple pies and chocolate chip cookie sandwiches. Photo by Carretto Studio Photography, wedding location at St. Louis Union Station Hotel Grand Hall.
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Creativity never has a day off on Lindsay Zelasko’s
Ever updating looks she wants to express, she has moved
calendar. Inspiration has shifted to match her life with two
to modernize details with shape and size from art and
young children, but wedding cakes of six-year-old Sugarbelle
architecture.
Cakery are now just as sweet to eat, inviting to sample and artistic to see as her pre-kids’ era. “Couples who come to me come for a reason,” she said
“A more modern structure, when you look at a cake, has crisp, clean lines and is taller than wide,” she noted. “Some of my layers have an extra tall pier in a more modern industrial
about her cake-planning process. “They care as much about
look calling to mind marble or ‘concrete,’ a term used in the
the design as the taste. They want style and detail. The design
world of cakes, too.”
stays in my head until I get it onto paper in my sketch book. Once they taste the cake, we are ready to book.” For color, blush, burgundy and gold tones have been on the tip of Zelasko’s chart coloring recent wedding cakes. She eagerly anticipates the changing seasons with a new eye for color in cakes, too. “I love it when somebody requests a different shade, like sage green or a muted purple, and I look forward to more lavender shades in the near future, too,” she said. Fondant is her favorite frosting to create a crisp canvas
Her naked cakes, often complementing rustic decor, also undergo a metamorphosis these days with color incorporated into underlying buttercream, as she constantly fine-tunes ideas. In the last year, she tried thinking “smaller.” On one hand, she was asked to do more groom’s cakes, which included a Star Wars’ Death Star. “As much as I love weddings, wedding cakes are so detailed that they take a lot of time. So, I didn’t mean to go
for intricate handmade sugar flowers and other artistry she
into cookies, but I did. My daughter was born in January, so
envisions with a bride and groom. Gold and other metallic
my cookies have become a popular item,” said the entrepre-
details shimmer in edible touches. “Buttercream is tasty, too,
neur who delivers them for sale at Kirkwood Farmers’ Market.
but it doesn’t stay in place like fondant. Each cake layer has
Purposefully keeping her business without a storefront,
three layers of buttercream before the fondant goes on top,”
she has more time to devote to her other sweet project,
Zelasko explained.
children Elle and Emery.
Above and right, Each table holds a cake of varied flavor, iced in individual designs to capture the varied feel of the wedding reception at Windows on Washington, next page, and tickle the imagination of guests for pleasant conversation and encourage mingling and sampling.
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Baker extraordinaire Lindsay Zelasko incorporates the eclectic whimsy of a bridal couple’s favorite things – cats, unicorns, soccer, weight lifting, tandem bikes and doughnuts – into a selection of six-inch round wedding cakes for each table and a statuesque showpiece cake with a modern look for the bride and groom to cut. Sugarbelle Cakery’s home-baked, handdecorated cookies extended the look at a followup brunch after the big day. Photos by White-Klump Photography, smallcake centers designed with An Affair to Remember and Mr. & Mrs. Wedding Events.
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sweet rewards
F E ATUR E S
Cake dives For 10 brides-to-be on July 16, 2017, the sun reflected on a multi-
tiered cake after the St. Louis’ Best Bridal Show at Sheraton Westport
at Fenton United Methodist Church and holiday hubbub. Julie Scheer opened the
Chalet Hotel St. Louis. “It was so much fun! It is such a great memory for us,” said Linda
ring capsule which held a
Gruss, one of those future brides. She and Jeremy McBride relived the
room rental prize for a bridal shower or engagement party
Brides slide ‘n’ glide
provided by Orlando’s Event Centers. She said she and Austin Peirick, who live in New Haven,
occasion later from online photos and drone footage
Mo., “have known
taken by Applause Productions. They enjoyed their
each other since we were babies and went to school
prize, a photo booth from Trotter Photo, at their
together from kindergarten through high school.”
wedding on Oct. 7, 2017.
called “the perfect prize” from Belleza Bridal and
away their prize, a DJ/photo booth/lighting package
Hair Salon. Her budget to wed Nathan Badgett on
from Applause Productions, to customize their
Feb. 24, 2018, did not include airbrush makeup.
local party after their September 2018 wedding in
“The Cake Dive gives me that gift for my wedding
Destin, Fla.
day – airbrush makeup and hair for myself and two
The mid-afternoon Bride’s Cake Dive formed an eclipse of sorts for two couples. Jessi Burch and Jeff Simmons already had set his attire for their Oct. 7, 2017, wedding, so they traded a groom’s wedding suit package from Suits 4 Men with a
94
Stephanie Kiszczak dug in face-first for what she
Alexandra Schwartzkopf and Jesse Meoli tucked
bridesmaids.” Other prizes became special gifts at the Bride’s Cake Dive. Janis Issa and John Ingoldsby enjoyed in-town fun with tickets to a St. Louis Cardinals baseball
pre-wedding party from Russo’s Catering, the prize inside the ring of
game and other prizes from St. Louis’ Best Bridal. Two other brides-
Alissa Bess, who will marry John Schwartz.
to-be also swapped prizes listed on rings they dug out of the cake. Liz
Victoria Smith and Peter Rybialek planned to use the grand prize in early
Bergman ended up with a gown package from Wedding Gallery for her
2018. The four-day, three-night, all-inclusive Funjet getaway trip for
June 2018 wedding to Chris Swope, while Nichole Caulley and Zachary
two from Travel Haus of St. Louis to El Dorado Spa Resorts and Hotels
Zeller won a limo package from Platinum Limo STL to use in their
by Karisma will help them decompress from their October 2017 wedding
plans for an autumn wedding.
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Grooms-to-be take the plunge
Nick Werne and Kristen Weiland saw
alongside fiancée Liz Bergmann. Like other
themselves dressed differently, but envisioned their
couples, they said his beard will remain intact
wedding reception on Nov. 11, 2017, in the UMB
for their wedding, planned for June 15, 2018, at
Champions Club at Busch Stadium. Their prize
Haue Valley. Hidden in his ring was promise of an
Pregame entertainment on Sept. 12, 2017,
came from Russo’s Catering, the same baker of the
engagement video from Strike A Pose.
at Busch Stadium was self-conscious fun for a
glamorous multi-layered cake at the dive.
Other prizes for grooms and their brides-to-be
dozen stalwart grooms-to-be at the Groom’s Cake
John Schwartz and Alissa Bess were dressed
included packages for a pre-wedding party from
Dive of St. Louis’ Best Bridal. They dug face-first
for winter weather in the photo which put them
Rose of the Hill and Favazza’s on the Hill for
into a tiered cake from Russo’s Catering to earn
in the top group of online vote-getters for the cake
Jerad Carter and Ashley Jones; rehearsal dinner
a gift that would enthrall another future prize,
dive. John proposed on Jan. 7, 2017, under the
at Saint Charles Convention Center for Mike
their own sweet bride. None – not even a majority
Gateway Arch, site of their first date four years
Mosqueda and Danielle Viggers; a limousine ride
with beards – admitted “training” for the event.
earlier. His clandestine promise to ice skate was
from Platinum Limo STL for Sam Levine and
still on hold. They won a four-day, three-night,
Layla Carpenter; bouquets from Walter Knoll
all-inclusive Funjet getaway trip from Travel
Florist for Matt Lazarus and Casey Lawson’s
Dig inside multitiered wedding cake from Russo’s Cateri ng for plastic wedding rings with exciting promises of gifts.
Haus of St. Louis to El Dorado Spa Resorts
wedding at the Provincial House Chapel at the
and Hotels by Karisma to use after their jobs in
University of Missouri-St. Louis and reception
schools end and their wedding in June.
in St. Charles; a gown package from Wedding
HAN DICAP:
The prize from Trotter Photo, an engage-
Gallery for Sean Rakers and Paige Lape; rehearsal
MISSION:
Tuck hands
ment photo package, came at the right time for
dinner from Andre’s Banquet & Catering for
behind back, push face-fi rst into cake while kneeling on slither y icing of rapidly destructed cake.
Adam Hoppe and Marisa Miller to formalize
Chris Wolfmeier and Kaitlynne Kendall; tuxedoes
plans for their Sept. 22, 2018, wedding at the
from Savvi Formalwear for the wedding of Daniel
Saint Louis Zoo.
Dugan and Katie Danuser on Aug. 25, 2018; DJ
REWARDS: One of 10 bridesto-be or 12 groom s-to-be wedding prizes, which include d photo booth to spa session , groom’s suit to limo ride, rehearsal party to flowers, and everyone’s goal – an all-inclusive trip-for-two to a resort in Mexico.
After the cake dive, Chris Swope watched the St. Louis Cardinals’ game at Busch Stadium
services from Applause Productions for Brandon Mallinckrodt and Heather Gargus.
SWE ET FALLOUT:
Gratitude of spouse -to-be for unusua l, “dangerous” duty. T-shirt , flip-flops, goggles and made-for-you veil – frosting include d.
QUALIFIE R:
Top number of
votes online for couples’ photos at STLtoday.com/contests.
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Cottleville: 6201 Mid Rivers Mall Drive St. Peters, MO 63304 636-628-2457
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
festive focus
F E AT U R E S
Above, After the wedding ceremony at The Franklin Room or elsewhere, bruschetta crostini catches the appetite’s eye with fresh tomatoes and basil mixed with garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper on toasted slices of hearty bread.
Culinary cues See Nick & Joe’s reception photos with guests at The Franklin Room on page 87.
The bride and groom stand in their own spotlight, but wedding fare can be the star. Meant to be shared, it enhances congeniality and stimulates conversation. Creative and mouthwatering presentation warm the party spirit. The Franklin Room presents and promotes the talents of Michele and Doug Swaney, owners for eight years. Each with an extensive background in culinary fields, the husband–and–wife team works together full-time. In Chef Doug’s estimation, the top reviews come from wedding guests who appreciate inviting foods that feature fresh ingredients and seasoned preparation. They suggested wines that pair well with each of his entrees. With 30-foot ceilings, windows 10 feet high and original wood floors, the 112-year-old ballroom in the Soulard neighborhood is charming, historic and romantic. The Franklin Dramatic Club, founded in 1871, brought the men of adjacent Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Parish together to perform plays in their newly-built parish hall. The Swaneys always assure brides and grooms that a bird’s-eye photo of their entire gathering taken from The Franklin Room stage will become a prize wedding keepsake. Food presented by THE FRANKLIN ROOM | Photography by TROTTER PHOTO
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Chef Swaney’s tip to a future bride and groom: Sample all types of entrees, including meatless, offered by a prospective venue. Above, At The Franklin Room, he serves zucchini, eggplant and yellow squash, sautéed in olive oil with Italian seasoning, alongside steamed broccoli and cauliflower and centers it with a rice medley topped with sautéed red bell pepper slices. Right, House salad of mixed greens, red cabbage and carrot is tossed with house-made balsamic vinaigrette and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.
Suggested wine: Kim Crawford sauvignon blanc
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Above, Fresh pico de gallo tops roasted salmon filet as “surf” contrasts “turf” of sliced whole-roasted beef tenderloin with cabernet demi sauce. Asiago potatoes and a melange of summer vegetables round out the colorful plate. Right, Fresh, plump, seasonal berries - blueberries, blackberries, strawberries and raspberries - colorfully tempt the palate over greens accented with chef-inspired raspberry vinaigrette.
Suggested wine: Estancia pinot noir
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Above, Slow-roasted prime rib of beef warms a hearty focus with au jus of creamy horseradish and a sprinkling of sun-dried tomato and green onion. Hearty vegetables - baby red potatoes, Brussels sprouts and butternut squash - are oven-roasted to enhance their sweet notes. Right, Caprese bites line up skewered with marinated mozzarella cheese and grape tomatoes amid pieces of fresh basil, ready for the taking around a tomato rosette.
Suggested wine with prime rib: Jacob’s Creek Reserve cabernet sauvignon, a malbec, or for variation, a sweeter Riesling Suggested wine with Sicilian chicken: Santa Margherita pinot grigio or Clos du Bois chardonnay Suggested wine with chicken and shrimp: Kim Crawford sauvignon blanc or Clos du Bois chardonnay
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Above, Panko bread crumbs, garlic and lemon season chicken breast with Sicilian attitude. Mashed sweet potatoes with butter, salt and pepper swirl with flavor and are served with roasted root vegetables.
Below, Chicken breast and shrimp are sautéed in garlic-flavored scampi style. Carrot, celery and green onion play up color and flavor in rice. Carrots in a colorful rainbow – yellow, purple, white and orange – are served with Southwestern flavors. Cilantro is the garnish.
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Above, Palm-size homemade desserts step up with cake for sweet treats. Clockwise, from top left, petite dark chocolate truffle tarts, traditionally brown-topped St. Louis gooey butter bites, white chocolate mousse in hard-shell dark chocolate cups, strawberries dipped in dark and white chocolate for wedding-fashion designs. Left, Mini sandwiches prefix a hearty meal or add a postscript to a substantial late-night snack. Chef Swaney’s lineup: Front to back, black-and-blue bites of blackened beef tenderloin with blue cheese crumbles on toasted crostini, plus pulled pork with his special bourbon-flavored barbecue sauce served on honey butter-glazed fresh buttermilk biscuits. More local late-night snack ideas: pizza, loaded cheesy fries, toasted ravioli, ice cream, warm pretzel puffs.
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heartfelt words
PA R T Y PL A N S
Your one-of-a-kind event is cleared for takeoff. A timetable lets everyone follow your
4 TIPS TO TOAST Responsibility for toasting the bride and groom at their reception typically falls not only the shoulders of the bride’s father, but also may be a task for the best man and maid of honor. Though an honor, giving a toast can be nervewracking. No one wants to give a toast memorable for the wrong reasons, so be prepared, stand tall and keep each part brief. Alcohol does not improve delivery. Coming from the heart rather than copied from a how-to guide helps ensure that a toast wisely covers its aim without offending the bridal party, parents or fellow guests. A survey of those who have delivered a successful toast
wishes according to a carefully set ETA. This sample of when to eat, dance and inject other amusement helps design your special occasion and opens the time for unique revisions. Communicate clearly with the DJ or master of ceremonies as well as photographer and other planners exactly what the plan is so they can keep timely watch over the event and help round up moving parts.
Pace party
MIND THE TIME 6:30
9:00
Guests mingle and meet, cocktails and
If wedding cake is served, it is cut first,
appetizers are served. Music usually
then the catering staff serves slices of
starts the party. Bride and groom arrive
cake or offer other dessert(s).
SIP COCKTAILS
DESSERT IS SERVED
unheralded, perhaps after a planned time for posed pictures along the perimeter or lingering at the ceremony site.
✤ First, know your audience. Diverse families from far and wide celebrate with the happy couple on their wedding day. A wise
7:15
9:15
IN THE SWING Guests follow the tenor of the newlyweds.
ENTER, TOAST, DINE
Work out a music schedule in advance with the DJ or music leader.
start acknowledges guests and thanks them
When dinner chimes ring, guests pick
for being there. This often breaks the ice and
up place cards and find their tables. The
calms a presenter’s nerves, especially when
bridal party is announced and seated.
facing strangers. Extend gratitude to parents
Champagne/wine or other bubbly is
of both bride and groom.
poured so each guest is ready for toasts
It’s your party. Bouquet and garter tosses
before dinner. The father of the bride
may suggest who marries next. Line dance,
welcomes guests first. Other members of
distribute favors, give token gifts to those
the bridal party follow. Dinner is served.
married longest, serve snacks, toast mid-
✤ Explain your relationship to bride and/or groom. Introduce yourself and explain how you met them. A comical twist is appropriate here.
✤ Hold tone of celebration. Focus on happy times with the bride and groom. Don’t drift. Share a funny, brief anecdote illustrating your special bond with the bride and/or groom. Keep in mind that not everyone may know you, but will honor your heartfelt sentiment.Keep any story appropriate for all ages, including children and grandparents.
✤ Extend personal best wishes to the bride and groom. As a last gesture, raise your glass toward the couple before the actual
9:45
EXTRACURRICULARS
night with everyone who stays.
8:45
TRADITIONAL DANCES Bride and groom take center stage for
10:45
BON VOYAGE OR NOT
their first dance as a married couple.
If the newlyweds leave the reception early,
Father and bride dance, then mother
guests may gather to wish them farewell
and groom take to the dance floor. At
as the party does or does not wind down.
last, the bridal party, paired as brides-
A popular option: Bride and groom dance
maids and groomsmen, enjoy a dance.
the night away, then continue to celebrate
A choreographed dance may surprise
with remaining guests at another safe,
and be memorable for guests.
convenient location.
toast. Express best wishes, then invite guests to raise their glasses to toast the newlyweds, too. If it fits the tone of the newlyweds/hosts, express the toast as a blessing.
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Locations for Receptions and Pre-Wedding Parties. StLouisBestBridal.com Bridal Marketplace
Bubbly delicious, Blackberry Thyme Sparkler dances with champagne around a party. For gold baking sugar to adhere to a flute, rub a touch of butter around the rim. The cocktail’s ombrecolored layers pop first with one ounce of gin and two ounces of blackberry-flavored simple syrup, which can be made well in advance. Drop in two fresh blackberries, then fill the rest of the glass with champagne. Thyme waves in fresh wonder. Cocktail courtesy of SAINT CHARLES CONVENTION CENTER | Photography by TROTTER PHOTO
ON T HE COV E R
keynotes
CRAFTY
Cocktails Beverages provided by SAINT CHARLES CONVENTION CENTER | Connie Barber, Senior Catering Manager, and Stanley Walker, Food and Beverage Manager | Photography by TROTTER PHOTO
Step up to the wedding with warm ideas for a signature drink, then pour it over ice or let it fizz to reflect and resonate the party’s style. Top to bottom, these specialties look spectacular and can be adjusted for personal flair and flavor.
Cotton Candy Cocktails Sweet fluff is a big hit with all ages. The trick for delivery is to keep cotton candy fresh from the package out of the liquid so it doesn’t – pouf! – disappear. Filling a champagne glass two-thirds full helps avoid touching the two ingredients. The candy’s color can coordinate with wedding decorations. For a Cotton Candy Martini, combine 4 cups grape juice and, if desired, 6 ounces vodka in vanilla or another flavor. For instant magic, simply pour liquid of choice over cotton candy. Chocolate Delight A martini with chocolate draws obvious acclaim. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, vigorously shake together vodka, crème de cacao, white chocolate liqueur and half-and-half. Strain into a martini glass with honey-coated rim dipped in shaved chocolate. Impressive Layers The bottom combines mashed blackberries with a simple syrup of cucumber and mint, its sweetness personally determined, and gin. Top the drink with ice and soda water, gently encouraging flavors to mesh without losing a tiered effect.
Opposite page, front to back, Sweet-and-tart cranberry juice makes an extra-festive margarita. Combine equal amounts of fresh lime juice and tequila, add orange-flavored liqueur, such as Cointreau or Triple Sec, and double the liquids with all-cranberry juice. Serve the drink over ice in your choice of sugar- or salt-rimmed glasses, garnish with fresh cranberries and lime wedges. | White Mojito is ready to sing at a holiday event with last-minute garnish of pomegranate arils which merge into the mixture. Fresh mint leaves are muddled with sugar and lime juice to seep flavorfully down into the creamy drink. White rum, coconut rum and coconut milk combine for a winter-wonderland look. | Coco Snowball made with blue curacao matches the season’s winter garb and whips up a mixture with rum and coconut flavors. Rim the glass with honey, then dip into shredded coconut. | Fizzy champagne (3 ounces) takes a tangy approach with cranberry juice (2 ounces) and orange liqueur (1/2 ounce). Stake with a lemon slice, float fresh cranberries on top and edge with mint.
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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
We Make Your Dreams Come True!
Make your wedding day carefree and unforgettable, let our professional consultants, knowledgeable staff, and executive chef do what they do best.
Call today for a Complimentary consultation and receive a Free wedding planner. 4532 South Lindbergh Boulevard • Sunset Hills, MO 63127 (314) 226-1010 • www.LiUNAEventCenter.com
L OV E S TORY
Victoria & Joshua N OVEM B ER 1 0, 2017
‘She was sweet and down to earth.’ STORY BY JANICE DENHAM
✿
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STRIKE A POSE PHOTOGRAPHY
FALL & WINTER 2018
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‘Surprisingly, he was very interested in me.’ His quiet persistence drew the attention of
Tori’s life always has included dogs. A
Four-year-old Roush was the first element she
Tori Pinkas. Eventually, she couldn’t ignore her
registered veterinary technician, she has worked
determined – in fact, “the minute Josh proposed”
own feelings and decided it was time to be certain
at Animal Protective Association of Missouri as
– would be part of the wedding. Red, her favorite
Josh Harned didn’t slip away.
well as the Metro East Humane Society. Early in
color, paired with silver for a November wedding.
Their first meeting, arranged by mutual
their time together, she welcomed Josh’s sympathy
“If we could have done the entire wedding in
friends, was at a bowling alley in February 2012.
when Jade, her 4-year-old Bernese mountain dog,
sparkles, I would have been happy,” she said.
“I maybe said five words to him that night,” she
died from a brain tumor. “He was beyond caring
For tradition, the bride had blue pearls on
remembered of the big gathering. “Surprisingly,
and supportive. He did everything he could to
her garter and wore a barrette borrowed from
he was very interested in me. He was persistent.”
help ease the pain,” she said.
her mother. Sparkly red heels peeked out from
It was not easy. Tori lived in Pontoon Beach
It was a turning moment. She knew she
under her new gown. The family friend who
and enjoyed the freedom of her new age as she
could love him, in spite of different family
married them invited a blessing after toasts. The
turned 21. The more mature Josh, who lived an
backgrounds. “Josh has a huge family and is very
bride composed bouquets and a friend made a
hour away in Festus, saw something more in her.
family-oriented. I was raised by a single mom
cake topper with images of the bride and groom
“I really liked her personality. She was sweet and
and my grandma was always nearby to help us.
alongside their favorite canine.
down to earth,” he said of their texts and phone
Having a guy who was actually trustworthy was
calls before meeting.
different for me,” Tori explained.
When Tori realized she didn’t want to lose
To her surprise on July 4, 2016, when Josh proposed, Tori cried. “He had brought up marriage
has sailed smoothly since then. Eventually, he moved to Pontoon Beach to be with her.
allowed him to stay alongside Tori all day. He walked up the aisle with her and her mom, posed for pictures and danced with the bride.
after about a year of our being together, but it
“He is the most bomb-proof dog there is.”
took forever to put a ring on it,” she noted. They
Warning other couples considering it, she said,
were in St. Petersburg, Fla., a frequent destina-
“Everyone who walks in wants to touch the dog,
tion for his family. Tori, Josh and his parents
so it is really necessary to have that temperament
were searching for shells and stopped to take
to put a dog in the wedding.” The presence of
photos in a protected beach area for birds. She
Roush at the wedding ceremony and reception
was confused when his parents had phones out,
was cleared at the site, Orlando Event Center
but soon discovered it was to catch the moment
South County.
when he knelt and proposed.
Josh, their relationship took a positive turn and
Luckily, Roush’s “rock solid” temperament
The couple treasured memorable moments
“I couldn’t believe I pulled it off without
of that walk down the aisle. Tori said seeing
her finding out. Right after, she told me I could
Josh dressed up for their big occasion, instead
get another boat.” So, now Josh has a second,
of wearing painter pants and a neon-colored shirt,
larger boat – which arrived more quickly than
was unforgettable. The groom’s reaction when
the wedding.
Tori finally looked up after walking down the aisle
Tori hopes to build an animal rescue business,
affirmed his feelings: “I knew it was meant to be.”
so a full-time job and busy school schedule pursuing
They gave DJ Chris Abel, a friend from
a bachelor’s degree in business administration left
Premier Entertainment, a “phenomenal” rating.
her to anticipate a wedding after a 2018 graduation.
She said, “He controlled a few situations at our
That date changed at a bridal show.
wedding with grace and kept everything on time.
Josh won a trip to Mexico with a ticket to
He made the wedding run smoothly.”
expire within the year. “Well, I said, apparently
Not only did the wedding happen, but the honeymoon came true, too.
He may not always be sailing, but fishing and
we are planning a wedding this year,” Tori
other hobbies do lure him outdoors. Luckily, his
decided. Without leeway for detailed input,
“Mexico was amazing. I will never forget all
job as a professional drywall finisher takes him
she relied on family to help. “My mom was,
the fun we had there,” exclaimed the bride. Now,
on the road, including to Lake of the Ozarks,
thankfully, amazing. She was my secret weapon
their radar focuses on another goal to celebrate:
where he enjoys his boats.
in the process.”
Tori’s graduation in August.
ON T HE COV E R
venue scenario
Select a fitting site A year before the wedding is not too soon to
clock ringing to snag the pivotal date.
may look different to a bride and groom who
On the other hand, a cell phone is a
has always seen where the big day should happen,
short-engagement planner’s best friend. The
firm up a date that accommodates both honorees
first question should be: Are you available on
Off-peak times by month, day ,week or time
and venue as soon as possible. Prime locations
such-and-such a date? Some venues will hold a
of day may make a dream venue affordable to a
and dates, such as during busy months of May
specific date for a day or two, but it is only fair
budget not able to afford prime time. Nearby
and June, September and October, should send
to return the favor with a positive or negative
hotels, shuttle services and rental services may
a couple scurrying to settle the matter, because
response within the suggested interval.
fall into the same line.
saw the facility before they were 16.
No matter how inviting a venue’s website
A top trend locates both ceremony and
Timing can be tricky. If a location is not to
looks, take the tour if it is under serious consid-
reception in the same venue. Inquiring about
be compromised, finding an open date is the
eration. Ambience should be consistent. Seeing
transitions, particularly if segments occupy the
crucial element. A venue which does not book
a venue through the eyes of a grandparent with
same room, stimulates discussion to envision a
events more than a year ahead or only accommo-
limited navigation up steps or across hazards
convenient and smooth transition.
dates prospective weddings as a calendar year
is limited may become a deal breaker even to
Food and drink are costly variables. Find
starts may require a phone reminder or alarm
a longtime dreamer. Restroom locations are a
out who provides food. Take advantage of
everything depends on the calendar.
112
prime consideration. Parking convenience also
locate ceremony and reception sites. If the heart
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
options and samplings to see what to expect. Depending on menu, a buffet usually costs less than a sit-down meal and provides more options for guests. Some packages include a late-evening snack, such as toasted ravioli for a taste of St. Louis, a sweet-and-savory pretzel bar or s’mores for sustenance before a DJ and guess head home. Envision where a multitiered cake, family photos, table cards, guest book and gift table will be located. Check what beverages and decorations are provided. Ask if the couple may provide alternatives. Some venues, particularly those that cater to a rustic look, offer a storehouse of free decorative items to borrow for enhancing the day. Look at chairs and linens that will be provided. There are many, many details to consider at a location. Some come with a planner as a guide through that portion of the event – but it is wise not to expect more help than navigating logistics at the location itself. During planning, consistency is to be considered. Ask if the person providing venue information is the same resource throughout the process and if that person is present for guidance on the day itself. If the proposed team does not provide a smooth fit, ask if there is someone else or consider moving on before a questionable situation becomes untenable. Chair covers, uplighting and one-stop shopping appeal to today’s bride and groom. It is important to see in person exactly what will be provided, then include the information in a contract between both parties. The contract is an all-important document that puts what is discussed onto paper so everyone knows what to expect. It is the only reliable backup resource, should one side be disappointed by the other’s performance. Prices in the document are what should be paid and items specified should be delivered according to the blueprint. Extenuating circumstances should be spelled out, too.
Search here for your venue location. StLouisBestBridal.com Bridal Marketplace
Shop for venues with list of values First comes the budget. Then, it is time to find a fitting backdrops for details. Colin Cowie, event planning guru, compiled a “foolproof ” checklist (http://bit.ly/Cowieblog-checklist-venue) for couples to use when they shop for venues. After all, he noted, what does every great wedding planner binder need to begin? A fabulous place for sharing vows and celebrating! If a venue does not come readily to mind, don’t fret. Start checking off some of these priorities before locking it down. He offers ideas (www.colincowie.com) for planning a wedding location from a(rt museum) to z(oo). ✤ Learn about any additional charges that may apply to venue fees.
Taxes? Cleaning fee? Security? Insurance? ✤ Select a variety of wedding dates you would consider. The more flexible, the better. ✤ Draw up a guest list. Make sure the venue capacity works for both your budget and guest count. ✤ Inquire about tenting and rainy-day options. Is your locale of choice prone to unpredictable weather? ✤ Research the venue’s existing décor. Does it match your overall wedding theme? ✤ Consider holidays that may clog up nearby hotels. Guests will need accommodations. ✤ Consider the season. Are your preferred flowers in-season? ✤ Find out which venues offer day-of coordination. You may need a helping hand for your big day. ✤ Make sure you know the load-in and load-out rules and restrictions. Is there an event the day before your wedding date? ✤ Discuss with your venue any sound curfews that may apply. Where and when is music allowed? Only inside? Only outside? Both? ✤ Verify if the venue is exclusive to specific vendors. Can you bring in food and beverage vendors of your own? ✤ Ask if catering is included. If yes, check out what their menu offers. Make sure they have options to satisfy all your guests. ✤ Double-check the policy on overtime rates. Don’t forget to add this to your “what-if ” budget. ✤ Make sure you know whether or not there are bathrooms on-site. If not, you may have to rent a temporary restroom. ✤ Discuss the on-site parking situation. Lack of venue parking may require you to shuttle guests. ✤ Learn about options for a bridal suite. Pre-ceremony comfort is everything for a cool and collected bride, whenever the month and season. ✤ Visit the venue. Pictures may be worth a thousand words, but seeing is believing.
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selection
spacious
convenient
The op�ons you want for wedding packages, audio visual, up-ligh�ng, staging, decor & more
16,200 sq. �. Grand Ballroom & 6,025 sq. �. Junior Ballroom plus pre-func�on space
Full service from dinner to decor, a�ached to Embassy Suites Hotel & easily accessible to major highways
LET’S START PLANNING
636.669.3000
StCharlesConven�onCenter.com/weddings @StCharlesConven One Conven�on Center Plaza Saint Charles, Missouri 63303
venues
PA R T Y PL A N S
ST. LOUIS' BEST BRIDAL
RECEPTION DIRECTORY
FORM LIST OF
TOP 10 SITES
FROM 200 LOCATIONS SEPARATE SELECTIONS FOR MISSOURI & ILLINOIS
What you’ll find by location: name, address and phone number, the number of guests accommodated, room rental fee, outdoor party area, on-site catering availability, on-site ceremony listing, lodging preferences, plus loads of additional information in the magazine and beyond.
DECIDE WHAT IS IMPORTANT More detailed information on various reception sites nestles conveniently within these listings. Look beyond the obvious for an available location. A special note: St. Louis’ Best Bridal businesses are indicated with heart-framed page numbers for more information.
DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE Timing is everything. Once this useful directory narrows reception site choices for you, make that initial call. Staff members at the facilities can answer questions and assist with wedding-day plans. Early arrangements ease the task, so you can sit back and expect the best resources to complement your special day.
CREATE A PERFECT WEDDING RECEPTION What now? Turn the page. Match your dreams to what local reception sites provide. Use this helpful resource to help you make all the arrangements.
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The Caramel Room at Bissinger’s The Caramel Room at Bissinger’s blends equal amounts of chic and sweet at St. Louis’ most sought after and elite wedding venue. Beaming natural light, hardwood floors, an outdoor terrace featuring river and skyline views, and chocolate-infused culinary adventures. Encompassed within a working chocolate factory, guests will be delighted by the elegant service standards and historic building which will give weddings of any size the feeling of intimacy and magic. Easily accessed from all directions, The Caramel Room at Bissinger’s features secured and complimentary parking, custom charger plate, and stunning seating which matches any color palette. Offering amenities like no other venue in the region, The Caramel Room’s award-winning team stands ready to create a day you will never forget.
THE CARAMEL ROOM
{ 1600 North Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102 ✤ (314) 615-2480 ✤ www.caramelroom.com }
RECEPTION LOCATIONS FOLLOW THE HEARTS FOR MORE INFORMATION. ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
PHONE NUMBER
612North Event Space 612 North 2nd Street, St. Louis
314 899-0612
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
225+
N
N
Y
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
Y
PAGE NUMBER
N
9th Street Abbey 314 621-9598 250 Y Y Y Y Y 1808 S 9th St., St. Louis All Occasions Banquet Centers 111 Compass Point Drive, St. Charles Ameristar Casino Resort Spa One Ameristar Blvd., St. Charles Andre’s Banquet Facilities - South 4254 Telegraph Road, St. Louis
116
636-946-1011 300 N N Y Y Y 636-940-4300 300+ N Y Y Y Y 314-894-2622 700
N
N
Y
Y
N
Andre’s Banquet Facilities - West 211 S. Old Hwy. 141, Fent
314-691-5650 325
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Andre’s @ Sunset Hills Golf Course 13366 West Watson Road, Sunset Hills
314-448-2414 250
-
N
Y
Y
N
Andre’s @ Carriage House @ Fox Run Golf Club 636-253-0867 230 1 Putt Lane, Eureka
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Audubon’s of St. Genevieve 9 North Main St., Sainte Genevie
573-883-2479 Call Y N Y Y Y 96
Ballwin Golf Club 333 Holloway Road, Ballwin
636-207-2355 220 Y Y N N N
Banquet Center of the Little Hills 111 Transit St., St. Charles
314-894-2622 300 Y Y Y Y Y
Barnett on Washington 3207 Washington Ave., St. Louis
844-462-2763 200
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Bear Creek Golf Club 158 Bear Creek Drive, Wentzville
636-332-5018 200
N
Y
Y
Y
N
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Your dream wedding isn’t a dream. It’s here. Your wedding experience will be a dream come true at the Saint Charles Convention Center. Our elegant venue can accommodate from 50 to 2,000 wedding guests with its flexible event space including the 16,200 square foot Grand Ballroom, 6,025 square foot Junior Ballroom, and 27,600 square foot Hall. Planning is a breeze when you take advantage of our in-house services including catering, audio visual, staging, décor, a dedicated event management team, and expert wedding coordinator. You’ll love our customizable wedding packages allowing you to create a menu and event unique to you. Your guests will appreciate the connected 296 suite, Embassy Suites Hotel, free St. Charles Trolley, and easy travel; we’re located right off Highway 70 and just 10 minutes from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport.
SAINT CHARLES CONVENTION CENTER
{ 1 Convention Center Plaza, St. Charles, MO 63303 ✤ (636) 669-3000 ✤ www.stcharlesconventioncenter.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
Boo Cat Club 812 N. Union St., St. Louis
314-224-5521 450 Y N N Y N
Busch Stadium Special Events 700 Clark St., St. Louis
314-345-9630 400+
Big Cedar Lodge 190 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
Y
Y
Y
Y
PAGE NUMBER
N
1-800-225-6343 500 Y Y Y Y Y
Bogey Hills Country Club 1120 Country Club Road, St. Charles
636-946-6250
Butterfly House 15193 Olive Blvd, Chesterfield
636-530-0076 100
475
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
N
Y
Y
Y
N
8
Does the venue allow only a single caterer? Does a preferred caterer list close the door to someone you prefer?
Chatillon-DeMenil 3352 DeMenil Place, St. Louis
314-771-5828
250
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Camden On The Lake 21124 Cave Road, Lake Ozarks
573-365-5620
300+
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Cave Vineyard 5856 Christy Blvd., St. Genevieve
314-616-1098 250
N
Y
Y
Y
N
The Caramel Room at Bissinger’s 1600 North Broadway, St. Louis
314-615-2480
N
Y
Y
Y
N
The Carriage House at DeMenil 1 Putt Lane, Eureka
314-771-5828 180
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
The Carriage House at Fox Run 1 Putt Lane, Eureka
314-894-2180 250
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Casa Loma Ballroom 3354 Iowa Ave., St. Louis
314-650-2462 850
Y
N
Y
Y
N
The Cedars, 939 Lebanon Drive, St. Louis
314-241-8248 500
Y
N
Y
N
N
Cedar Lake Cellars 11008 Schreckengast Road, Wright City
636-745-9500 400+
Y
Y
Y
Y N
300
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Hermann Hill Chapel and Riverbluff Weddings Hermann Hill Weddings is positioned high atop a bluff overlooking the Missouri River in Hermann wine country. Aside from stunning photography opportunities, we offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony options. Couples can choose from our Chapel, Gazebo or River Bluff location. All views feature gorgeous angles of the river and countryside. Our reception Pavilion provides an outdoor feel with its wall of windows. Guests will enjoy their dinner while watching the sunset in the comfort of a climate controlled atmosphere. Other picturesque locations include our waterfall garden, woodland personal chapel and celebration point. At dusk, the sunset is replaced by torches of light that illuminate walkways, inviting guests to further enjoy the evening. All packages include: two wedding coordinators, an officiant, planning sessions, a private Chef, a signature Champagne Toast, your honeymoon night’s stay in a River Bluff cottage and many additional perks.
HERMANN HILL WEDDINGS
{ 165 Highway 100 East, Hermann, MO 65041 ✤ (314) 550-4759 ✤ www.hermannhill.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
118
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
PAGE NUMBER
Cedar Creek Resort 1401 Olive Road, New Haven
855-778-7222 400+ - Y Y Y Y
Chandler Hill Vineyards 596 Defiance Road, Defiance
636-798-2675 250
Charlie F. Knight Center, Washington U. One Brookings Dr., St. Louis
314-935-4668 165 Y Y Y Y Y
The Chase Park Plaza, 212 N. Kingshighway, St. Louis
314-633-3000 300 Y Y Y Y Y
The Christy Banquet Centers, 5856 Christy Blvd., St. Louis
314-287-5263 350
Y
N
Y
N
N
98
The Christy Banquet Centers, 9000 Veterans Memorial Parkway, O’Fallon
636-266-4123 500
Y
N
Y
N
N
98
City Museum 701 North 15th St., St. Louis
314-231-2487 300 Y Y N N N
Clayton Plaza Hotel 7750 Carondelet Ave., Clayton
314-726-5400 600 Y N Y N Y
The Conservatory 1001 South Main St., St. Charles
636-947-0414
Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis 3750 Washington Blvd., St. Louis
314-535-4660 225
100
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
What items may a family bring in – candy bar, cookies, pies, cakes, frozen custard?
Crowne Plaza Hotel 200 N. Fourth St., St. Louis
314-621-8200 350 Y Y Y Y Y
Cyranno’s 603 E. Lockwood, Webster Groves
314-963-3232 50
DoubleTree Hotel & Conference Ctr. 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield
314-434-0100 450 N Y Y Y Y
DoubleTree Hotel - Wesport 1973 Craigshire Road, St. Louis
314-212-2110 600 N Y Y Y Y
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Y
N
Y
Y
N
44
Rose of the Hill by Favazza’s showcases Italian hospitality For a classic taste of Italy in St. Louis, Favazza’s Restaurant romances brides and grooms and their guests at its elegant restaurant and full-service Rose of the Hill banquet facility, each located at the gateway to this historic section of the city. After the proposal, make wedding plans at an intimate table on the restaurant’s garden patio. Greet wedding party and out-of-towners after the wedding rehearsal on that same patio or in one of five private rooms. From near or far, guests will delight in the family food and personal service fine-tuned by decades of experience. On the big day, the single-event facility, named “Rose” for the favorite flower of the Favazza family’s mother, becomes the backdrop for as many as 350 people. Often called “popular gourmet,” fabulous food like Sicilian Chicken, Steak Mudega and Italian Roast Beef is served sit-down family style or buffet. Specialty pasta dishes and fresh vegetables appeal to all tastes. A 35-foot dark wood bar separate from the dining and dancing area offers hospitality. Staff expects to provide real china, linens, glasses and silverware, as well as decorate and check coats. After the bride and groom ceremonially cut the cake, it is sliced and served. The head table enjoys a champagne toast. A private lot provides free parking and convenient access.
ROSE OF THE HILL BY FAVAZZA’S
{ 2300 Edwards, St. Louis, MO 63110 ✤ (314) 772-6003 ✤ www.roseofthehill.com }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
PAGE NUMBER
Drury Inn Union Station - St, Louis 201 South 20th St., St. Louis
314-231-3900 32 Y N Y Y Y
Drury Inn & Suites Convention Ctr. - St. Louis 711 N. Broadway, St. Louis
314-231-8100 80 Y N Y Y Y
Drury Inn & Suites Forest Park - St. Louis 2111 Sulpher Ave., St. Louis
314-646-0770 150 N Y Y Y Y
Drury Plaza Hotel - Chesterfield 355 Chesterfield Center East, St. Louis
636-532-3300 160
Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch 2 South Fourth St., St. Louis
314-231-3003 280 Y N Y Y Y
Y
N
N
Y
Y
Embassy Suites Hotel & Spa 636-946-5544 1,600 Y N Y N Y Two Convention Center Plaza, St. Charles Embassy Suites Hotel - St. Louis Airport 11237 Lone Eagle Drive, Bridgeton
314-739-8929 1,035 Y N Y N Y
The Falls Reception & Conference Center, 300 Admiral Wienel Blvd., Columbia
618-281-3255 550 Y Y Y Y Y
Forest Hills Country Club 36 Forest Club Dr., Chesterfield
636-227-5030 200
Foundry Art Centre 520 N. Main St., St. Charles
636-225-0270 400 Y N N Y N
Fox Theatre 527 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis
314-534-1111 370 Y Y Y Y Y
The Franklin Room, 816 Allen Ave., St. Louis
314-664-7706 300
N
N
Y
Y
N
Genesis Banquet & Catering 2651 Telegraph Road, St. Louis
314-894-7073 400
Y
N
-
N
N
Grand Hall on Chouteau 2319 Choteau Av., St. Louis
314-427-6771 300+
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Grand Opera House Banquet Ctr. 311 N Main St., St. Charles
314-406-3783 200
N
N
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
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Catering has never tasted so pretty 23 City Blocks Catering’s Executive Chef Nicholas Miller crafts from the freshest local ingredients, presenting plates with artistic flair. The events team assures that you and your guests are impressed at every bite. 23 City Blocks Catering classifies food as a crucial element of the human experience, so much more than simple sustenance. Serving clients ranging from 20 to 300+, 23 City Blocks Catering is the preferred caterer to Stone House of St. Charles, Silver Oaks Chateau, Boo Cat Club, Majorette, Wild Carrot, Jefferson Underground, The Magic House, The Muny’s Culver Pavilion, St. Louis City Hall Rotunda, and Main Street Abbey.
23 CITY BLOCKS
{
1600 North Broadway Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63102 ✤ (314) 615-2480 ✤ www.23cityblocks.com.com
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
PAGE NUMBER
Heart of St. Charles 1410 S. 5th St., St. Charles
636-947-8270 400 - N Y Y Y
Hermann Hill Weddings 165 E Highway 100, Hermann
314-550-4759 250 Y Y Y Y Y 11
Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark 1 S. Broadway St., St. Louis
314-421-1776 175+ Y N Y Y Y
Hilton St. Louis Airport 10330 Natural Bridge Rd., St. Louis
314-824-1665 600 N N Y Y Y
Hilton St. Louis Frontenac 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Frontenac
314-993-1100 500 N N Y Y Y 32
Holiday Inn — St. Louis Airport 4505 Woodson Rd., Bridgeton
314-427-4700 200 Y N Y Y Y
Holiday Inn Airport West — Earth City 3400 Rider Trail South, St. Louis
314-291-6800 300 Y N Y Y Y
Holiday Inn — Forest Park 5915 Wilson Ave., St. Louis
314-645-0700 80
Y
N
Y
Y
N
How does a location switch from ceremony to reception? Where do guests go and what can they do? Is this a regular practice? Holiday Inn Select - St. Louis Downtown 811 N. 9th St., St. Louis
314-421-4000 400 Y N Y Y Y
Holiday Inn — South County Ctr. 6921 S. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis
314-892-3600 320 N N Y Y Y
Holiday Inn St. Louis Airport - Riverport 10709 Watson Road, St. Louis
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SEATED CAPACITY
}
1-800-652-3705 450 Y N Y Y Y
Holiday Inn Southwest - Route 66 10709 Watson Road, St. Louis
314-298-3400 400 N N Y Y Y
Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch 315 Chestnut St., St. Louis
314-342-4655 220 Y Y Y Y Y 28
Innsbrook Resort & Conference Center 1 Aspen Circle, Innsbrook
636-928-3366 200 Y Y Y Y Y
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Let us make your wedding dreams a reality! Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch offers monumental service and premier wedding venues that feature the best views of the Gateway Arch. Two large ballrooms are perfect for lavish affairs while our Park View room is perfect for intimate events, with French windows overlooking the Gateway Arch. Looking for a unique view for your wedding guests? Our Gateway East Ballroom and Terrace features an indoor/outdoor space with a spectacular view of the Gateway Arch, including a light up dance floor. Our wedding event manager will ensure that all of the big decisions have been made and all of the little details are attended to. The hotel’s culinary team and in-house pastry chef are ready to create a custom menu and cake for your big day. Your guests will appreciate the convenience of our downtown location and our recently renovated luxury accommodations. Whether you are arranging an intimate bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, engagement party, wedding room block, ceremony or reception for 10 to 1,000, our dedicated staff is ready to execute your special day flawlessly. To take a tour of our wedding venues or for more information, contact us today.
HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS AT THE ARCH
{ 315 Chestnut Street, St. Louis, MO
63102 ✤ (314) 342-4655 ✤ regan.smith@hyatt.com ✤ hyattregencystlouis.com
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
Jewel Box Forest Park, St. Louis
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
}
PAGE NUMBER
314-531-0080 250 Y Y N Y N
Kemp Auto Museum 636-537-1718 800 16955 Chesterfield Airport Rd., Chesterfield
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Kenrick Banquet Hall 4324 Weber Rd., St. Louis
314-652-2837 350
Y
N
Y
N
N
Kuhs Estate & Farm 13080 Spanish Pond Rd., Spanish Lake
314-226-0709 400+
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Is the facility the only provider of beverages, particularly alcohol? Landings at Spirit Golf Club 180 N. Eatherton Rd., Chesterfield
636-728-1927 400 - Y Y Y Y
Le Chateau 10405 Clayton Rd., St. Louis
314-991-6700 250 Y N Y Y Y
Lemp Grand Hall 1817 Cherokee St., St. Louis
314-664-8024 300 Y Y Y Y Y
Lemp Mansion 3322 DeMenil Place, St. Louis
314-664-8024 260 Y Y Y Y Y
LiUNA Event Center 4532 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Sunset Hills
314-226-1010 350
The Lodge of Des Peres, 1050 Des Peres Rd., Des Peres
314-835-6150 165 N N N Y N
Lodge at Grant’s Trail 4398 Hoffmeister Ave., St. Louis
314-638-3340 150 N Y Y Y Y 86
Lumen Private Event Space 2201 Locust St., St. Louis
314-615-2480 180
Lumiére Place Casino and Hotel 999 N. 2nd St., St. Louis
314-881-7777 350 Y N Y Y Y
Mad Art Gallery 2727 S. 12th St., St. Louis
314-771-8230 230
N
N
Y
N
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
N
Y
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Orlando’s creates lifetime of memories Since 1967, Orlando’s, a third-generation family owned business, has been fulfilling a lifetime of memories for brides and grooms. We make the whole process as simple and stress free for you and your future spouse with our two conveniently located Orlando’s Event and Conference Centers – South St. Louis County and Maryland Heights – catering, and event planning support. Our two locations are modern and up-to-date with elegant ballrooms to reflect the sophisticated and distinctive tastes that you have for your special day. Your guests will be delighted with the amenities and tasteful décor, and our professional event planning team will work with you to make the most of your budget so your day is unique and memorable. We invite you to visit and tour each of our locations to learn why Orlando’s is the number one wedding caterer with the best wedding reception locations throughout St. Louis City; St. Louis, St. Charles, Franklin and Jefferson Counties; and the Metro East. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary this year, and look toward the future, our focus remains the same…to help you plan a wedding day that is unique, special, and reflective of your personality.
ORLANDO’S EVENT CENTERS, CATERING & SPECIAL EVENTS
{
South County (314) 638-6660 ✤ Maryland Heights (314) 453-9000 ✤ www.orlandogardens.com
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
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PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
}
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
The Magic House 516 South Kirkwood, St. Louis
314-822-8900 500
Magic Chef Mansion 3400 Russell. St. Louis
314-664-3400 150 Y N N Y N
The Mahler Ballroom 4915 Washington Ave. St. Louis
314-361-4411 150 Y Y N Y N
Marriott St. Louis Airport 10700 Pear Tree Drive, St. Louis
314-423-9700 500 N Y Y Y Y
Marriott St. Louis West 660 Maryville Center Drive, St. Louis
314-878-2747 1,045 Y Y Y Y Y
Y
N
N
Y
PAGE NUMBER
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Are times and locations available for pictures or must they be staged separately outside contracted hours or must they be staged for a designated location at a separate time?? Missouri Athletic Club 405 Washington Avenue, St. Louis
314-539-4470 400 Y N Y Y Y
Missouri Bluffs Golf Club #18 Research Park Circle, St. Charles
636-939-6494 150
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Missouri Botanical Garden 4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis
314-577-5100 300
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Missouri History Museum 5700 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis
314-454-3154 2500
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Mount Pleasant Estate 5634 High St., Augusta
636-482-9463 225
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
New Towne at St. Charles 3331-2 Rue Royale, St. Charles
636-288-7332 300
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Old Hickory Golf Club #1 Dye Club Dr., St. Peters
636-477-8960 550
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Old Stone Chapel 1106 S. Main St., St. Charles
636-947-8270 200 - Y Y Y Y
Oliva ... On The Hill 4915 Daggett Ave., St. Louis
314-961-7588 100
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
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Your special day got a multi-million dollar facelift Discover a distinctive, St. Louis wedding experience at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel thanks to a recent multi‐million dollar renovation that transformed the landmark property’s 37,000 square feet of premium event space. First-floor ballrooms are infused with the creative energy of classic St. Louis jazz and blues creating unique memorable experiences. Meanwhile, décor for the ballrooms on the upper floors is inspired by views of nearby jets soaring into the endless sky. The new spaces offer casual, flexible seating and varying levels of privacy, encouraging social interaction while fusing local flavors to create an energized atmosphere. Perfect for that one-of-a-kind intimate family gathering and large enough to comfortably accommodate up to 600 wedding guests. This luxury hotel offers a stress‐free stay with on‐site parking and complimentary airport shuttle service. Guest rooms showcase luxurious bedding, ergonomic desks and flat‐screen TVs. Guests are invited to unwind in the property’s fully‐equipped fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools. The hotel’s on-site restaurant features the best local and sustainable St. Louis ingredients in dishes that take a modern approach to American cuisine. The Renaissance St. Louis Airport presents an unforgettable setting.
RENAISSANCE ST. LOUIS AIRPORT HOTEL
{ 9801 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis, MO 63134 ✤ (314) 429‐1100 ✤ www.renaissancehotel.com/STLSA }
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
Orlando´s Event Centers, South County 4300 Hoffmeister, St. Louis
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
PAGE NUMBER
314-638-6660 1000
N
N
Y
Y
N
86
Orlandoʹs Event Centers, Maryland Heights 314-453-9000 600 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza
N
N
Y
Y
N
86
Palladium St. Louis 1400 Park Place, St. Louis
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
314-799-8886 700
Is there a Plan B in bad weather? When is a decision made? If no tent or indoor area is provided, is a source recommended? Peabody Opera House 1400 Market St., St. Louis
314-622-2500 400
Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Union Station 2211 Market St., St. Louis
314-241-3200 150 N N Y Y Y
Pevely Farms Golf Club 400 Lewis Rd, Eureka
636-938-7000 250
Purser Center at Logan College, The 1851 Schoettler Rd., Chesterfield
Y Y N Y N 636-230-1881 400
Randall Gallery 999 North 13th St., St. Louis
314-231-4808 310
Marriott St. Louis Grand Hotel 800 Washington Ave., St. Louis
314-621-9600 500 Y N Y Y Y
Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel 9801 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis
314-429-1100 650 Y N Y Y Y 19
The Ritz-Carlton St. Louis, 100 Corondolet Plaza, St. Louis
314-863-6300 700 Y N Y Y Y
The Vineyards at Riverbend Chapel 4247 Old Hwy. 100, Washington
636-390-8600 300
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Rose Of The Hill by Favazza’s 2300 Edwards St., St. Louis
314-772-6003 350
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Ruth Chris Steak House 1 North Brentwood Blvd., Clayton
314-783-9900 60
N
N
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
N
Y
N
Y
FALL & WINTER 2017
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17
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Old school ambience in historic Soulard Nestled on a quiet street in one of St. Louis oldest neighborhoods, The Franklin Room is a mix of old world charm and city vibes. Built in 1905, it boasts 30’ ceilings, 10’ windows and the original maple wood floors. With an attentive service staff that’s all about you, exceptional cuisine prepared fresh in house, and a wealth of support services and vendors, you have everything under one roof to get the party started. Add a bit of romance and this beautiful, vintage ballroom is the perfect place to celebrate your wedding day.
THE FRANKLIN ROOM
{
816 Allen Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104 ✤ In Historic Soulard ✤ (314) 664-7706 ✤ www.thefranklinroom.net
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
ASK
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
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PAGE NUMBER
Saint Charles Convention Center One Convention Plaza, St. Charles
636-669-3000 1,000 Y N Y Y Y IFC 120
St. Louis Art Museum 1 Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis
314-655-5387 250
St. Louis Artists’ Guild and Gallery 12 N. Jackson, Clayton
314-727-6266 110 Y Y N Y N
Y
N
Y
N
N
St. Louis Science Center 5050 Oakland Ave., St. Louis
314-533-8179 330
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
St. Louis University Events 221 North Grand Blvd., St. Louis
314-977-6338 500
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Y
Y
N
What is the distance between venues or to guests’ lodging? St. Louis Zoo 1 Government Drive, St. Louis Savoy Banquet Center 119 S. Florissant Rd., Ferguson
314-646-4855 500 314-521-4500 250
Seven Gables Inn 26 N. Meramec Ave., Clayton
314-863-8400 175 - Y Y Y Y
The Sheldon Concert Hall & Ballroom, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis
314-533-9900 500
Sheraton Clayton Plaza Hotel 7730 Bonhomme Ave., Clayton
314-863-0400 250 Y Y Y Y Y
St. Louis City Center Hotels & Suites 400 S. 14th St., St. Louis
314-231-5007 450 Y N Y Y Y
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Sheraton Westport — Chalet Hotel St. Louis 314-878-1500 800 N N Y Y Y 191 Westport Plaza, St. Louis
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}
Sheraton Westport Plaza Hotel St. Louis 900 Westport Plaza, St. Louis
314-878-1500 300 N N Y Y Y
Silver Oaks Chateau 1168 Hwy 100, Pacific
314-280-8890 250 Y Y Y Y Y
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
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Lumen Private Event Space Lumen Private Event Space’s modern style, premium service and contemporary flair just stepped up the game! New silver Chiavari chairs, a stainless steel bar with stunning chandeliers and updated hardwood floors are just the beginning. No worries though, guests still awe over floor-to-ceiling windows and a state-of-the–art LED lighting system. Located in the Packard Lofts building, Lumen can host weddings for up to 200 guests with space for ceremonies as well. Lumen’s timeless-designed event space evokes the excitement weddings deserve. Easy to access from any direction and skirting the downtown St. Louis area, it provides a destination that astounds guests with style and spirit which translates into memorial photos that will become classic opportunities to share the occasion again and again in years to come. Executive Chef Nicholas Miller, whose forte is farm-to-table and seasonal ingredients will fulfill every culinary desire.
LUMEN PRIVATE EVENT SPACE
{ 2201 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63103 ✤ Located in the Packard Lofts ✤ (314) 615-2480 ✤ www.lumenstl.com } ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION
PHONE NUMBER
SEATED CAPACITY
ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER
CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE
Soulard Preservation Hall 1921 N Ninth St., St. Louis
314-241-8181 150 Y Y N Y N
Starlight Roof at the Chase 212 N. Kingshighway, St. Louis
314-633-3050 500 Y Y Y Y Y
Inns of St. Albans, The 3519 St. Albans Road, St. Albans
636-458-0131 140 Y Y Y Y Y
Sunset 44 Bistro 118 W. Adams Ave., Kirkwood
314-965-6644 50
Y
N
Y
N
N
Sunset Hills Banquet Center 13366 West Watson Road, Sappington
314-843-7811 250
Y
Y
Y
N
N
Third Degree Glass Factory 5200 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis,
636-367-4527 250
N
Y
Y
Y
N
University of Missouri - St. Louis I-70 & I-170, St. Louis
314-516-4324 Call
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Vance Vineyards & Winery 1522 Madison 212, Fredricktown
573-783-8800 100
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Villa Antonio Winery 3660 Linhorst, Hillsboro
636-475-5008 300
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Westin St. Louis, The 811 Spruce St., St. Louis
314-621-2000 275 N N Y Y Y
Wingheaven Country Club 7777 Wingheaven Blvd., O'Fallon
636-561-9464 250
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Whitmoor Country Club 1100 Whitmoor Drive, St. Charles
800-927-9622 500
Y
N
Y
N
N
PAGE NUMBER
Whittemore House at Washington University 314-935-5276 110 Y Y N Y N 6440 Forsyth, St. Louis Windows On Washington 1601 Washington Ave., St. Louis
314-241-5555 350
Worlds Fair Pavilion 1904 Concourse Drive, St. Louis
314-289-5344 450 Y Y N Y N
Y
N
Y
Y
FALL & WINTER 2017
N
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
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PREPARE FOR THE BIG DAY
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L OV E S TORY
Rebecca & Andrew M AY 2 0 , 2 0 1 7
‘She is very colorful and I am supportive.’ STORY BY JANICE DENHAM
✿
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TROTTER PHOTO
FALL & WINTER 2017
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‘He made me laugh when I needed it.’ People like Rebecca Rhoten and Andrew
terrible storm in spring of 2013. “Andrew was playing in a band at a church
Batchelor were meant to ease on down a Yellow Brick Road on their wedding day.
service and a tornado was coming toward us.
became real. I saw all those faces and Andrew was at the end of the aisle.”
Rebecca is from Cahokia and Andrew grew
Sirens were going off,” Rebecca recalled about
The couple involved ministers from their fam-
up in Dupo. Having known each other all their
their plight amid Illinois cornfields. “He left all
ilies at Turning Point Worship Center in Cahokia,
lives, they would seem bound to follow the same
his equipment – amps and bass – and shoved me
the church where she grew up. Rebecca’s uncle
paths. However, a radar blip held them back
into the basement of a house across the street.”
witnessed self-written vows; the groom said his
until Andrew finished high school. She was five
She knew he would take care of her. Recognizing
and the bride sang hers. Andrew’s brother deliv-
years older.
that moment, Rebecca said, “I knew I wanted to
ered the message and his father gave them a bless-
stay with him forever.”
ing. As predicted, she cried when her dad sang a
While Andrew was “very sweet,” their ages
As marital questions swirled, they decided in
concerned Rebecca. He discounted it. “As you get older, age differences don’t matter so much.
spring 2016 to become engaged.
he noted. “I wasn’t dating anyone else, but I was still
song he composed for her at age 4 and rewrote for the wedding. They combined soil from each of
“When his parents were going on a cruise that
their childhood homes around a 6-foot tree they
year, they suggested they could book one for the
have since planted at their home in Mehlville.
honeymoon,” she said of a not-so-subtle hint.
Relatives hung blessing wishes on it.
She was already stable and sure of herself,”
fighting it,” she said. “He was fun and funny. He
Before her June birthday, Andrew directed
Andrew replayed the ceremony’s vows and
made me laugh when I needed it. We now claim
Rebecca to Forest Park, site of their first date.
music as favorite memories. The bride took a
He directed a walk down Art Hill, in spite of
selfie at the moment of their first married kiss.
her reluctance after recent rains, so a cousin sta-
The sun unexpectedly shone on their church
tioned in nearby shrubbery would capture the
exit. Quick photos where they were engaged fol-
big moment with the Art Museum as backdrop.
lowed. At Apostolic Worship Center in Dupo,
Rebecca allowed them a year and a day to
the reception site where Rebecca works and
implement a “totally unique” wedding. “I want-
they attend, they strung lanterns and lights – 30
ed a wedding with things people had never seen
strands by Andrew’s count – across black cur-
before and I wanted it to be ‘us.’ Everything would
tains. Colors exploded in silk bouquets and she
be fun and whimsical and funny and colorful.”
arranged them in flowers and centerpieces.
Andrew agreed to the wedding plan, full of
A popcorn bar awaited 100 guests, who
fun and meaning. “She is very colorful and I am
highlighted favorite passages in a Bible the new-
supportive,” he said appreciatively.
lyweds now keep for their family. Guests played
So, that is how the wedding party came to
games set on every table and took home photo-
walk, to the tune of “Marry Me” by Train, down
booth keepsakes. Colors popped again on a cake
their very own 40-foot yellow brick road sten-
with gum paste flowers hiding flavors of red vel-
ciled and painted brick-by-brick by Rebecca.
vet, strawberries and bananas. Food was from
Colors in six bright hues were tempered with
Panda’s Express, Rebecca’s favorite. They bagged
black. The groom’s socks and boutonniere reflect-
Candy Skittles as “rainbow seeds” to take home.
ed the rainbow. Rebecca’s new, vintage-style
Rebecca tossed a breakaway bouquet, made with
our first date in September 2011 as a picnic in
gown was colored champagne. She wore a veil
a loose ribbon, to share flowers with more guests.
Forest Park with my dog, Dante, a chihuahua
for the church and a dramatic feathers-on-bow
with an attitude toward French fries.”
fascinator for the reception. She wore the sap-
Among his other jobs, the pastor’s son ran a business for four years. With other jobs, his col-
phire ring of her grandmother, too ill to attend, “so she got to be there anyway.”
know each other. He now pursues an IT career. It wasn’t Kansas, but they were caught in a
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
They left the next morning on the Caribbean cruise his parents had reserved for them. Rebecca and Andrew counted their days in laughter, not years, and Andrew spoke of the
Rebecca vividly recalled a moment when
happiness they share. “She is a huge supporter
she enter to the tune, “Somewhere over the
of me and always has something positive to make
Rainbow,” playing. “When those big double
me happy. She always is thinking of me.”
lected experiences kept building as they got to
128
doors opened and I heard the music swelling, it
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
E S SE N T I A L S
bridal shows
RIDAL SHO
The ‘best’ vendors
Everything you need Even returnees find those one, two or a few
Best Bridal, your unique celebration comes
special elements evading them. Stay alert for
In your hands is another impressive
together. Preparing for it should not be a
items that will make your wedding fun and
resource: St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine.
struggle as the many ideas and details fit
personal, plus surprises that sprout along
Future brides, no matter the planning stage,
together into your dream wedding.
with celebrating a wedding-to-be.
find fun and inspiration on its colorful pages
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL OPENS DOOR TO BRIDAL SHOWS, MAGAZINES, IDEAS AND FUN FOR CREATING A WEDDING THAT MATCHES YOU!
130
basics, tips and questions to ask.
With the helping hand of St. Louis’
The spirit is contagious! One soon-to-be bride, walking into
Resources of gowns, men’s formal wear,
a show with her future husband, wore
cakes, hairstylists, musicians, limousines,
an engagement ring he put on her hand
DJs, florists and pampering planners for the
that very morning. A model at another
whole event or just the big day. Compact,
Celebration received an engagement ring
detailed guides help create a perfect wedding
of her own when the man of her dreams
from beginning to end. The magazine also
disarmed her with a loving speech while she
is available on local magazine racks.
wore a beautiful gown for a would-be bride. Attendees cheered when she agreed to say “I do” and share their Love Story forever. Not only does each engaged woman wear a sparkling smile by gathering ideas galore,
Attendees of St. Louis’ Best Bridal
but she also carries away FREE resources
Celebrations have said that anyone planning
to help focus on what is important to the
a wedding in the St. Louis metro area cannot
couple planning to wed.
afford to pass up these great opportunities,
A handy St. Louis’ Best Bridal Planner
whether the bridal list is getting under way
is free at shows or when a couple signs up
or needs only a few spaces filled.
at www.stlouisbestbridal.com.
With a different show every time, myriad
Sized to carry on bridal adventures, it
local resources await both bride and groom.
provides useful overviews of typical wedding
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
and keep it convenient to reference.
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
OUR NEXT BRIDAL SHOW Sunday, Jaunuary 20
ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL CELEBRATION
Saint Charles Convention Center
Visit us online at stlouisbestbridal.com for show details and special offers.
12 ways
Real love stories inspire, detailed ideas
TO ENJOY A BRIDAL SHOW
update trends, timetables suggest goals and legal overviews detail tasks – wherever you live or say “I do.” Guidance for budgets, invitations, gifts,
A bridal show boosts options galore! Rows of booths are staffed by wedding experts ready
jewelry, food, photographer and other details,
to help create a wedding that matches your personality, your style, your vision and your means.
big and small, build confidence. Listings suggest
Where to start? A little planning helps spark amazing fun to solve the unique bridal puzzle.
choices for rehearsal fun, wedding, reception
Results perfectly fit together the merging and emerging “you” on your wedding day.
and honeymoon. Information about bridal shows and weekly planning updates from St. Louis’ Best Bridal
1
6
extra-special occasion. Watch for fun this year
PRE-REGISTER FOR QUICKER CHECK-IN. A bride who fills out a form in
at shows, online competitions where you as a
advance at www.stlouisbestbridal.com may
head spin, so revisit them later after you
couple shine, individual Cake Dives for brides
walk in FREE when she shows the acknowl-
settle back to sift through options.
and grooms and surprise events.
edgement on her phone or on a printout.
personalize ideas with new twists for your
WRITE DOWN IDEAS AND TAKE PICTURES. Supportive details make your
7
YOUR GOAL: FIND SPECIALISTS.
Brides receive free bridal show tickets while
Providing the wedding date and contact info
they are available at Savvi Formalwear locations.
helps keep the bride and groom in touch for
Seek out those whose ideas match yours.
For the person coming straight to the show, a
post-show offers and ideas. General admission
Sync calendars to make appointments or
cash fee of $5 is payable at the door.
is $5 (cash only).
leave call-back information to set dates
money The Savvi a blast! is e n machi
2
one-on-one later.
FOCUS ON SERVICES YOU NEED. If that engagement of yours is sparkling new with a far-off date, concentrate on total style. Otherwise, find specific items to satisfy items you need. Fill your head with ideas, stuff your bag with information. Prizes at St. Louis’ Best Bridal Shows include a FREE and luxurious trip to a faraway destination.
3
WEAR COMFY SHOES. You will want to retrace your steps alongside at least one close relative or friend who will encourage, rather than distract, you. Perhaps the groom-to-be is this welcome partner. Kids are welcome, but probably will not be entertained.
4
HAVE QUESTIONS READY FOR THE EXPERTS. Leave time for fun. Allow time to sample it all – food to fashion, photos to honeymoon.
5
BE UP-FRONT ABOUT BUDGET. Providers want to meet your needs. This allows both sides to draw up, trace and track what potentially will work.
8
PRINT STICKERS. Listing your
name, address, phone and email saves time and effort. Pack them the night before.
9
TAKE A BREAK. Catch your
breath with that helpful cheerleader. Inhale with one eye on the fashions. See something you like? Return to the provider’s booth for follow-up views. Special show-day offers may follow.
10
PRIZE REQUIREMENTS. When
attendance prizes are promoted, find out if you must be present to win.
11
PLAN A RETURN ENGAGEMENT.
As your wedding requirement list shortens, return to another show to fill still-to-do tasks. Each St. Louis’ Best Bridal Show is unique with varied vendors so a follow-up look leads to fulfilling exact needs.
12
SMILE! CELEBRATE! This will be
the finest occasion of your life and YOU are designing its details to make it happen.
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FA SHION
starter file
HOW TO
FIRST THINGS FIRST It should go without saying that you need to get all cleansing and grooming out of the way before proceeding with anything else. Shave, brush your teeth and fix your hair, etc. The last thing you want is a toothpaste smudge on that fancy new tuxedo before your big event. This is a big
PUT ON A TUXEDO A STEP-BY-STEP BEGINNER’S GUIDE
Adapted from SAVVI FORMALWEAR blog Photo provided by SAVVI FORMALWEAR
Bring the other side of the cuff closer and continue pushing the cuff link through the inside cuff between the two buttons. Next, rotate the clasp to keep the cuffs in place. Be sure to close the forearm button as well.
THE PANTS Put on your pants and pull them up to
occasion and you are not wearing a suit
your waist so the top of the waist band
from graduation.
rests at the hip bone. Tuck shirttails into the pants, smoothing as you go to
THE SOCKS
avoid ruffles in the trousers. Button the
The first articles of clothing to grace your
waistband and zip up. If pants are not
body should be underwear (and undershirt
tailored exactly to your body or you are
if needed) followed by your socks, pulled
wearing a rental, adjust side clamps for
up as high as possible. Sock technology
perfect fit.
should allow them to stay up on their own in this modern day.
THE TIE Flip up your collar and button the shirt
THE SHIRT
collar. Most tuxedo rental neckties have a
Next comes the shirt, but – wait! –
hook and clasp at each end and an adjust-
first, put in the shirt studs. Above each
able tab to lengthen or shorten it. If not,
shirt button is a small hole for a stud.
tie a simple tie knot and use like a suit
Skipping the top button, place the first
tie. Fasten the tie around the neck
stud at the second button from the top of the shirt. To insert it, push the small colored side through the hole until it appears next to the original button. Apply one to each button hole going down the shirt until all four studs have been used. A cummerbund
and adjust it. Flip down the collar so it covers the entire tie. The tie should be fit snugly so the bow or knot sits up without sagging.
THE VEST The vest should cover your waistband
provided with a tuxedo will cover
and hug the torso to create a clean silhou-
the midsection, so all four studs will
ette if and when the jacket is removed.
not be necessary. Without a cummer-
The back strap adjusts it. Starting at the
bund, ideally your tuxedo jacket will be
top, fasten a few buttons to check how it
buttoned, hiding the one lower button
fits initially. If not ideal, remove the vest
without a stud. Thus, when you put on
and loosen or tighten the back buckle.
the shirt, you should fasten it with the
This may take a few trials to keep it snug,
studs, rather than the buttons.
not tight. When comfortable, button all buttons except the bottom one, which is
THE CUFF LINKS
traditionally left undone.
Go ahead and button up all buttons on your shirt to prepare for cuff links. Look
THE JACKET
for two button holes on the shirt cuff, one
Last comes the jacket. Traditionally
on the outside of the wrist and one on the
you only keep the top of the two buttons
inside between the two buttons. Rotate
fastened. However, feel free to unbutton
the clasp of the cuff link to form a “T.”
it when you sit down. Make sure shirt
Using the other hand, push the cuff link’s
cuffs and cuff links are just a tad visible
small end through the outside button hole. 132
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
under the jacket sleeve.
formality enhanced
We d d i n g o f L a u r e n Wa i b l e a n d Michael Beal on Oct. 21, 2017. Photo by PHOTOAJOY PHOTOGRAPHY | Tuxedo by SAVVI FORMALWEAR | Gown by Stella York from ULTIMATE BRIDE | Bouquet by WALTER KNOLL FLORIST
F E AT U R E
The groom selects formal wear to accent his stunning look of the wedding day. Details enhance favorite colors worn by bridesmaids and complement flowers which women carry. Individuality spills into coordinating vests, ties and pocket squares. The couple’s look touches hearts and creates impressive, memorable wedding views.
Impressive styles Following photography courtesy of SAVVI FORMALWEAR
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Ann Rafferty of Savvi Formalwear said the total look of a gentleman, youthful at any age, may include tuxedo or formal suit, but it coordinates and extends the day’s design planned by the couple to show style and personalities in quality clothing. Accent colors trend into new shades each season, so wedding dreams that favor “purple” forever, may extend into an extensive range of magenta, lilac, plum or thistle.
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Previous page, Michael Beal wears a navy blue Sebastian tuxedo with satin edges by Ike Behar. A grey Kristoff vest and winecolored tie accent flowers and bridesmaids’ gowns selected by Lauren Waible for the autumn landscape. | Above, Light gray is a color mainstay in Chrome fashioned by Michael Kors. A 2-1/2inch lapel has a notch cut in premium Venetian wool. French facing provides cool reserve with purple lining hiding mix-and-match colors. | Right, top, Ever-sophisticated black enriches shades of burgundy. Men line up in Michael Kors Desire tuxedos in luxuriously soft Venetian wool with single-breasted, two-button styling, satin notch lapels and besom pockets and side vents. Right, bottom, Michael Kors provides new tan Tahiti in premium Venetian wool, comfortable and soft for a warm-weather wedding. The two-button front has a notch lapel with self-fabric trim.
Above, A gentleman eager to stand out with individuality may complete his ensemble with a tie of his own choosing. The dignified selection complements a black Valencia suit from Savvi Black Label. | Right, A wedding party wearing the same Sebastian tuxedo – in cobalt blue this time – with satin edges by Ike Behar is coordinated from bow tie to socks with personality all their own. The trend of formal wear in blues and grays continues, said Rafferty, as does the juxtaposition of vests hiding in surprising colors. Formal shoe colors in brown range from cognac to light tan. The slim-fit look extends to sizes for all ages and physiques. As with women’s gowns, styles look formal, but are more comfortable in fabrics that welcome varying weather, locations and details.
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
toe-tappers
PA R T Y PL A N S
Keep the rhythm By JANICE DENHAM
Without music, a wedding would miss a beat. A bride would walk up the aisle without fanfare and silence would follow
a meeting armed with at least a few ideas
a music coordinator experienced in repli-
gives initial clues.
cating preferred backgrounds at designated
A list of preferences provided by a music professional is the first hint for a
Sweet said the music always should
Something would be missing.
bride and groom about a potential fit. Is
set the scene. Current favorites are instru-
Melodic entertainment holds a wed-
there an extensive catalog? Does a couple’s
mentals and classics. Opportunity runs
ding together. Thus, another wedding
“must-play” list fit there? A couple also
the gamut from Pachelbel’s “Canon in D”
“star” ascends to orchestrate, but not take
should include what they do not want to
with accompaniment from strings, organ
over proceedings of this long-awaited day.
hear on their day-of-days.
or piano. On the other hand, a bride may want to dance down the aisle, guets edging
Jordan Sweet, DJ and event consultant with Complete Weddings + Events, said,
CEREMONY STARTS PLAY
her path, to music by Justin Timberlake.
“Events require some structure and con-
“My favorite clients are the ones who
Another opportunity for rhythm is the
trol. Someone must run the show with the
know what they want but also are willing
time for conversation over beverages and
microphone and let people know where to
to listen to some of my ideas,” said Sweet,
appetizers before the couple, wedding party,
go.” Finding a professional who can put
who started forming his professional style
family and friends settle into the reception.
their dreams in order is the goal of a couple
at age 14. “I can fill in the holes when you
planning their wedding.
point me in a direction. Everyone draws off
“Everyone has a style and it is impor-
that energy.”
TEAM PERSONALITY A bride and groom should know who
tant for the bride and groom to find some-
A venue like a church may designate
the DJ will be and how that personality
one they can communicate with well. It is
instruments, accompanist and soloist, but
will be displayed – over the top, laid back
an opportunity to make those lofty expec-
some may be negotiable within reason. An
or more reserved. The newlyweds and
tations come to life,” he said.
outdoor venue certainly may have guide-
immediate families should feel assured that
lines for music, too.
the atmosphere designed in advance will
The ability to determine what they
138
moments.
the couple’s rhythmic dance steps.
want in music needs someone who can
A single location for ceremony and
highlight the couple, steadily balanced by
interpret and direct intentions. Coming to
reception does not limit diverse sounds for
the person who takes charge of the event.
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
The advance team effort should start the
provider will engage attendees. Developing
Dave and finding out how the longest mar-
moment a specialist is chosen.
an atmosphere of fun creates a good time,
ried couple danced to ‘Unchained Melody’
so happy guests are still up on the dance
at their own wedding and inviting them to
floor at the end of the night.
offer advice to the newlyweds.”
Pleasing the bride and groom first, then the immediate family, does not leave guests
No matter who supplies the services,
Line, group or ethnic dances draw
a feeling of cooperation between music
people to the dance floor. Having a DJ
provider and other vendors helps ensure
lead them offers group security. Audience
a smooth event. Because Complete can
requests provide clues for what a DJ should
coordinate and bundle DJ entertainment,
play. Sweet offers incentive with competi-
photography, videography, photo booth,
tions, so he didn’t blink when his recent
✤ Paces events
uplighting, plus extras like karaoke and
challenge to fill a Complete photo booth
✤ Moves with wedding’s pulse
video production, the comfort zone is auto-
“pushed the envelope” and 28 people
✤ Engages many guests
matic for Sweet.
squeezed in for a new record.
behind. The couple should know how a
Music IN THE GROOVE ✤ Is ready at the outset
✤ Enhances flow ✤ Connects a wide range of ages ✤ Matches style of wedding ✤ Moves with the production ✤ Follows a prepared plan ✤ Progresses in orderly fashion
“I love having my photographer and
While using someone with less experi-
others under one roof with me. You can
ence as a DJ may sound tempting to help
wink at them and everyone knows where
the budget, Sweet stands on the side of
to push and pull the timetable,” he added.
selecting a professional wedding entertainer under contract to save heartache – and
ONE-ON-ONE BASE
often added expense – later. A contract,
Mingling with guests helps lay the
even with a relative, provides a built-in
✤ Looks as good as it sounds
groundwork at an event, according to
level of reliability for the bride and groom
✤ Responds to on-site situations
Sweet. “It takes getting to know Uncle
as well as the music specialist.
PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY DISC JOCKEY PHOTO BOOTH LIGHTING 314.991.5656 STL@CompleteWeDoInc.com CompleteWeddingStLouis.com
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Say ‘I do’ to a destination wedding. It’s your special day. That means everything should be done exactly the way you want it. And Funjet Vacations couldn’t agree more. As your wedding expert we will be there from start to finish to make the destination wedding of your dreams come true with Karisma Hotels and Resorts. To book your destination wedding, call Travel Haus of St. Louis at 314-842-6000 or visit travelhaus.com.
L OV E S TORY
Stephanie & Nathan FEB R UARY 24 , 201 8
‘He looked at me and mouthed, “Wow!”’ STORY BY JANICE DENHAM
✿
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACEY BARTMANN-LEEK OF LOVE & LIFE PHOTOGRAPHY
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141
‘We clicked. We genuinely enjoyed each other’s company.’ Nathan Badgett’s interest in motorcycles on
her comfort zone. Her outgoing nature and his
She put it to good use as her father proved
a dating website intrigued Stephanie Kiszczak, so
homebody preferences balance, with fur babies
his regained strength. “He walked me down the
she “winked” at him. After messaging for three
Skeeter, an American bulldog, and pug Gabby
aisle, slow and steady. There wasn’t a dry eye in
weeks while he worked out of town as a fresh-
alongside.
The Jewel Box,” Stephanie said. The two also
water biologist, he rolled into view in October 2014 at Three Kings in University City.
Nathan waited a year for warm weather to propose. He asked her to go fishing on May 21,
shared a father-daughter dance to an abbreviated “Lullaby” by Billy Joel.
With “serious butterflies,” she arrived 45
2017. When he chose the quiet lake at August
The groom enjoyed sharing their mutual
minutes late in pouring rain from her downtown
A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area to bait
regard for close-knit families. The wedding
job as a communications consultant but thought
their hooks, she thought her lack of recent fishing
party included a half-dozen nieces and nephews.
he was better looking than his online photo.
experience embarrassed him.
Recovering from a broken hip, officiant Sandy
Twenty minutes into the encounter, he knew
“She was in front and I was in back of a rented
LaRouche looped a symbolic wreath of flowers
they had “something special. We clicked. We
boat,” Nathan said of the just-for-two occasion.
and herbs around the bride and groom’s hands
genuinely enjoyed each other’s company.”
“I used my biggest pole and heaviest line. I kept
during a union ceremony.
The first date lasted three hours.
an eye on the bobber and sneakily attached the
Nathan said, “I’ll never forget the way
She lived in south St. Louis County and
ring to the other pole and cast it for her. I said,
Stephanie looked when I first saw her at the other
Nathan, a native of Wood River, Ill., made his
‘You have a bite.’ But, she came back, ‘Nope,
end of the aisle.” Her favorite view was standing
home in Lake St. Louis. Initial midweek dates
nope.’” Eventually, he talked her into checking
at the altar with Nathan amid a full house. She
extended to the weekend. Before long, their time
her bait, so she pulled out the line and found the
recalled, “He looked at me and mouthed, ‘Wow!’
together increasing, Stephanie said, “I was over
engagement ring on the hook.
For that moment, it seemed like we were the
the moon when he asked me to be his valentine.
He took to his knee in the unsteady boat and
only two people in the world.”
she said, “Yes,” to his marriage request.
They devoted a Sunday to selecting wedding
A special dream developed when
music from favorite artists and movies. Billy Joel
Stephanie’s dad got sick. During more
again gained top billing for a first dance to “She’s
than 79 days with surgeries and rehab,
Got a Way” at the reception featuring centerpieces
his goal was to walk his daughter down
and other details made by the bride’s mother. A
the aisle on Feb. 24, 2018. Amid the
candy buffet provided a top hit.
hope, their wedding - double-themed
Photos from the day captured their history at
in nature and motorcycles - took shape.
Forest Park and Three Kings, where it all began.
The Jewel Box kicked in a huge dose of
A mutual interest in motorcycles was displayed
plants on a rainy winter day, while the
with mini cycles on a square wedding cake and
Moto Museum revved up the reception.
make-believe tours in bikes at the museum.
Juniper green gowns and accents
“I am pretty easygoing,” the groom said. “My
satisfied the bride’s color urge and
big request was a keg of Bell’s Two Hearted Ale. A
It was a pivotal moment when we ordered pizza
sparkles brightened the day and captured her
close friend who is an accomplished home brewer
online together for the first time, staying inside
love of bling. Peggy Cox of Exotic Flowers and
crafted two special brews to commemorate our
in a crazy ice storm.”
Gifts, part of a long-time Girl Scout “family,”
day and included pictures of our dogs on the
They rode together on Nathan’s motorcycle.
gathered the greenery. Her cascading bouquet
labels.” Toasted ravioli and Gus’s pretzels oriented
He got her a better-fitting helmet, sparkly green,
favored ferns, hypericum berries and amaranthus
late-night snacks to St. Louis.
for a special ride on his Triumph. Heading home
over flowers. Stephanie’s crafty mother used pieces
They appreciated the 250 guests who came in
of her own wedding dress to make a ring-bearer
mid-winter to celebrate with them. The memora-
her. Stephanie countered, “I already knew I loved
pillow and bride’s garter. Nathan wore motorcy-
ble day was a hinge to their future, Nathan said,
him, but that made it even more real.”
cle cuff links, a Valentine-wedding gift from his
reinforcing his point that the most important part
bride, and let her dab away tears with a handker-
of a wedding day is to open a gate to life that the
chief his father gave him.
bride and groom will share together.
from a birthday party, he confessed his love for
Nathan has enjoyed Stephanie’s willingness to snorkel, snow ski and try other activities outside
on the move
PA R T Y PL A N S
Video brings day to life
The world of selfies and drones has become a staple in wedding videography, according to Jeff Hill,
quickly, so brides and grooms see the value of reliving the moment.”
owner of Westview Media. “The selfie cam video is among the latest in my bag of tricks,” he said. Capitalizing on talented guests,
Equipment is key to videography results, accord-
he hands off a camera to an unsuspecting person
ing to Hill. At Westview, that includes a new tool
– even the groom – for distinct views and unique
like the selfie camera plus improved tools like a jib,
perspectives. “People take selfies all the time. ‘Will
slider and Glidecam for better angles and improved
you shoot what you see?’ I ask bridesmaids or other
quality of focused memories.
guests while they are dancing.” While not everyone takes an extra step to engage a videographer in capturing the day’s proceedings,
144
PARTY PLEASER
Using a drone may sound like fun to the non-professional, but it takes practice to do it proficiently, he noted.
many wish they had – when it is too late. A wedding
“You have to know where it is going,” Hill
video captures what everyone saw plus extra scenes
laughed only half-heartedly. “Ours almost hit a couple
beyond the obvious focus of the celebration.
buildings, got caught in a tree. I cut myself once. It
“Videos have become more popular,” said Hill,
might be fun to use but still can be an interesting
who gained new perspective as a groom on the other
challenge even for those on the ground looking up.”
side of the camera in 2017. “The day goes by so
He avoids using it when it would distract the
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Above, Laura Craigmiles and Eric Laudermilk head from their wedding on Aug. 26, 2017, at First Christian Church to the reception at a private home in Hannibal.
OUR VIDEOS
Watch their wedding trailers Stephanie & Branden: https://vimeo.com/255130215 Laura & Eric: https://vimeo.com/247834468 Jacqueline & Todd: https://vimeo.com/251876234 Lauren & Andy: https://vimeo.com/254585620
Zoom in on a VIDEOGRAPHER ✤ Research and meet with prospective providers early.
✤ Focus on a videographer’s style as a match.
✤ Consider whether you prefer fast-paced, vibrating resonance or a softly romantic theme for backdrop. ✤ Check options and possibilities and ask about special offers. ✤ Read the contract’s fine print for services provided and extra fees.
proceedings, but likes to photograph celebrants from above. This sets their place in time and location throughout various parts of the day.
CHERISHED FUN AND ADVICE This is one time when a bride and groom, who say the day is over too soon, should be able to put their trust in unseen and sometimes unexpected results of a professional. “There are a lot of things the bride and groom miss at their own wedding. These are surprises they love to live after the moment. This is the chance to see what was there,” Hill added. That may include the fun of a Mannequin Challenge where everyone holds a position at a certain moment. For a bonus chapter, a video may include special messages, invited by the videographer or that roving reporter. The setting may be early when a couple gets ready, but any segment of the day is perfect for sharing intimate and/or comical thoughts, memories and advice. Condensing an entire day’s events into a video of 1-1/2 hours requires an experienced hand and eye. Recent brides and grooms in Hill’s experience want a full story of the good, the emotional and the unexpected during a day’s preparation, festivities and extras. In addition, a couple usually selects a musical backdrop for a preview capsule of 4-1/2 to 5 minutes. A couple should zoom in on a provider who enjoys capturing the day in a time capsule of significant milestones. Like with other providers, the contract should be awarded for compatible style, personality, leadership and full disclosures. Options for delivery may include uploaded results online or by Blu-Ray, DVD and flash drive. FALL & WINTER 2018
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PA R T Y PL A N S
in sight
What to ask a photographer Find your photographer
The mutual goal is to
remember how vows were sealed with a kiss, who attended and what fun it was. These questions help focus on a perfect fit.
Samples
May we see more than one sample of your work? Can
you show us a complete product like we want, start to finish, by the photographer we would have?
Image preservation
How do you protect wedding
photographs and for how long? Will we be able to return in five or 10 years to replace or get more photos?
Equipment
Do you capture images with professional quality
cameras or use consumer-level equipment? Is there backup if a camera, lighting or electricity fails? What special effects – black-and-white, sepia, spotlights or other – might our photographs have?
Collaboration
Do we work directly with our chosen or
assigned photographer or is it an office assistant or other staffer? Who answers our calls? How do we review, select and edit final images for online, album and print sets?
Time
What is the maximum time until we see proofs? Once
pictures are selected, how long until final delivery? Do we get a CD with all photos and when? How may we use it?
Delivery
In what format do you deliver proofs? What does the
price include? Are other options or products available? At what cost?
Quality
Do you personally print photos, versus using a
professional lab or consumer hobbyist as photo-finisher? Are images guaranteed against fading and for how long?
Style
The wedding day is a milestone chapter on a bride and groom’s love story. It should be told in their own voice – with helpful interpretation by a professional photographer. Samples of a potential photographer’s work display glimpses into ways memories can picture that romance in bloom. Experience gives the person behind the camera an edge on telling this
Do you work primarily in a natural artistic style – traditional,
story, so a feeling of rapport should be evident when a couple sits down
photojournalistic or is it mixed? Do you like to shoot in a studio
to assess a potential specialist’s work and style. Digital photos allow the
or vary locations? Are engagement photos included? Where may
photographic style of single or multiple photographers shine without
we take them? Who picks sites? Do you have options to suggest in
taking over the spontaneity. Teamwork is crucial, so watch how office staff interacts and the courtesy
inclement weather?
Experience
extended to the bridal couple as a potential customer. How long have you photographed weddings?
Engagement photos test flexibility to see if multiple looks will be
How long are you in business? Can you provide references? If we
embraced or if the photographer is fixed on established ideas. Completed
choose companion services, who fulfills these obligations?
work suggests whether artistic comfort – of the bride and groom, plus
Assurances
How do you ensure satisfaction? What is the
backup plan in a delay or emergency? What is the procedure if equipment fails or another issue arises? Do you carry liability insurance? Where is the contract with details I can read before I sign our agreement?
146
Looks of love
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
a photographer – rests in a formal venue or more eclectic environment. With multiple photos to be taken and chosen, evaluating the creativity of posed photos is important, too. Variety is important at a single location for both ceremony and reception. Energy and excitement should follow the couple from preparation to a last look of farewell or final dance.
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Photo opposite page, Trotter Photo catches Misty Foster and Ben Burke docking to kiss before they set sail on April 22, 2017, at their wedding in Wright City.| Left, Complete Weddings + Events captures a glimpse of Sami Teel and Brandon Craig’s wedding day on Sept. 15, 2017. | Below, Trotter Photo etches a uniquely sweet moment for Erica Abbott and Corey Heffner to remember on Sept. 9, 2017 .
930 Kehrs Mill road, suite 215, Ballwin, Mo 63011 | www.striKeaposestl.coM | (636) 220-3343
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F E ATUR E S
rustic destination
Wine country
WEDDINGS
Wedding location at CEDAR LAKE CELLARS | Photography by JESSICA LAUREN PHOTOGRAPHY
the possibility of a popup thunderstorm. For
A winery, Bolm said, contrasts city compet-
us, the answer is indoor facilities – the rustic
itors by providing free, and often abundant,
Destination: St. Louis area.
barn and a climate-controlled barrel room which
parking for latitude in inviting guests. Numbers
Time involved: A single-day event.
opened just last year. It has retractable walls
matter in each setting. Getting married in a
Ambience: Picturesque countryside with
for a panoramic view of the property,” he said.
wine cellar or on a deck or gazebo overlooking
A couple shopping for a wedding should
the Missouri River? Be certain the maximum
Not long ago and not so far away, wineries became option for local weddings.
row after row of rolling vineyards, rustic barns to indoor elegance, ready-made backdrops, dining
approach a winery to discover options.
options with a broad range of wines.
Proximity to the metropolitan area allows
Ambience is the biggest asset of a winery
on one or the other location to be married, but
easy access to tastings and planning opportu-
wedding, declared Carl Bolm, president of
when they see our two totally different areas,
nities to soak in the natural setting’s relaxing
Cedar Lake Cellars in Wright City.
they end up signing up for the other.”
artistry. Bolm noted that Cedar Lake Cellars’
“In our case, Cedar Lake is just 30 miles from
If time allows, visiting in the same time
chef has experience in a wide range of cuisines
Chesterfield. The grounds are a park-like setting.
frame of the upcoming wedding helps assess a
using fresh, local flavors, plus its own award-
There are water features, lakes. It is just beauti-
facility’s practical appeal. On the positive side,
winning wines and other beverages. Meals served
ful as an outdoor setting for pictures,” he said.
a winery destination which offers comfortable
as buffet or sit-down are equally popular there.
That doesn’t mean only a comfortably
amenities might become a winter option – with
“We have had everything you could want
sunny, summer day creates the perfect scene.
a fireworks display glowing brighter as it moves
in a wedding: carriage, balloon-covered lights,
Bolm recommended checking options for a
up a couple’s list of desirable options.
a petting zoo when lots of kids were guests. We
facility’s indoor alternatives, too.
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number allowed corresponds with the guest list.
“Often people come with their mind set
A venue’s assets may vary by season, not only
are very accommodating with everything from
“With any outdoor venue, you have a
where the party will be held, but also in support.
tuxedo weddings to sport coat and tie, with a lot
weather concern. There may be rain, heat.
With multiple options, views and decorations
of variations. Our blank canvas, even in a big red
During the wedding season, there is always
also may differ.
barn, allows a big streak of creativity,” he said.
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Bolm pointed out that Cedar Lake Cellars provides separate areas for its public tasting room and parties. “We don’t have crossover interruptions. They are 100 percent independent of each other and a person coming for one doesn’t know the other one actually exists,” he said. “As a bonus, guests arriving early for the ceremony can enjoy hanging out in the public area before the ceremony starts.”
INQUIRE ABOUT DETAILS ✤ Is there space for dressing and preparation?
Is a dance floor easy to use? ✤ Are accessible restrooms adjacent to
desired facilities? ✤ Who oversees the wedding day and what
does he or she do? Who is responsible for details like moving flowers from ceremony to reception area?
A wedding in local wine country paints a rustic, natural setting in a countryside scene ramped up by the impressive dream of traditional style in a relaxed atmosphere. An indoor-outdoor plan broadens views for a wedding. At the 2017 wedding of Devin Bain and Kale Stewart at Cedar Lake Cellars, the newlyweds take advantage of autumn’s fall colors, then utilize the inherent beauty and spaciousness of a reception with relatives and friends in the winery’s new Barrel Room, where sky and vineyard are only arm’s-length away.
✤ What decorative details are provided? ✤ Who sets up chairs and tables? What is time
line for preparation and decorating? ✤ What other services may we tap through your
venue? Do you have access to transportation to and from the event? What is the best approach to ease transportation – a common pickup or nearby lodging? ✤ Do you recommend a local florist, planner,
officiant, bakery, hair and makeup specialist? ✤ What kind of food may we have – barbecue
and picnic, fiesta or other ethnic fare, upscale dining? ✤ Are unique places nearby or part of winery
location where guests could expand the rustic occasion into a weekend or longer stay?
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F E ATUR E S
home details
full of dreams
Items provided by DILLARD’S REGISTRY Photography by TROTTER PHOTO
Personal preferences guide what a couple wants and hopes to achieve in their merged design. For a registry, newlyweds-to-be suggest any alluring item from a store’s shelves or its website for their mutual or individual enjoyment. Their newly acquired style will be aided with the help of fond family and friends who ask what their “together” home should have and hold by way of a registry. It should be organized early in the engagement with hoped-for items varied in use, price and style.
IN THE KITCHEN Teapot Paring knife Cutlery, knife block, cutting boards Can/bottle openers Ice cream scoop High-temp mitts, pot holders Dishcloths and towels Paper towel holder Fruit bowl/ripener Cookie jar
Above, Savannah ironstone plates in pink scallop and gray scroll, herringbone cotton napkins and a clear, footed eyelet dessert dish, all by Southern Living; an Aromatique candle in Valencia orange, and a Primitives by Kathy dog photo holder share space on a pink Shagalicious throw by Studio D.
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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
Cutting board Canister set Spice rack Pot rack Cookbooks Food savers
FOR THE TABLE
GLASSWARE
Salt/pepper shakers
8-12 water goblets, wine glasses, martini
Oil, dressing cruets
glasses, margarita glasses, champagne
Corkscrew
flutes, highball/tumblers, water glasses
Trivets
Water pitcher
Placemats, napkins, napkin rings
Drying rack for fine glassware
Tablecloths and runners Coasters
COOKING & BAKING
Serving trays
Skillet
Cake plate and dome
Griddle
Chip-and-dip server
Saucepans and stockpot
Salad bowl and servers
Wok and stir-fry pan
Wine rack, chiller, decanter, carrier
Steamer
Ice bucket and tongs
Slow cooker
Punch bowl and ladle
Pressure cooker
Vases
Baking sheets
Above, A reversible table runner in Fiesta colors of Confetti serves as backdrop for hammered-copper moscow mule mugs in colors of blue lapis and daffodil yellow, lemongrass skillet baker, scarlet cocktail shaker and turquoise nonbreakable tumbler. Below, KitchenAid “Professional 600” series 6-quart stand mixer, mixes up to 14 cups batter at one time.
Pie pans/dishes
DINNERWARE
Muffin pan
8-12 place settings: dinner plates, bowls,
Cake pans
salad plates, dessert plates, cups and
Pizza pan, baking stone
saucers, forks, salad forks, teaspoons,
Cooling racks
soup spoons, knives and steak knives
Casserole dishes with lids
Serving bowls, platters, utensils
Nonstick sheets for oven, baking
Gravy boat
Mixing bowls
Butter dish and knives
Measuring cups and spoons
Pitcher
Rolling pin
Sugar bowl and spoon
Grater
Coffee mugs
Spatulas Whisk
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151
Potato masher
Above, Trio of canine decor items fills the newlyweds’ home: photo holder announcing a three-some and pet “Love” block with string art paw, both from Primitives by Kathy, and a his-and-hers key and leash holder from the Mud Puppy collection of Mud Pie in the center. Below, left, A Mud Pie pillow reminds the sleepy of the wedding year. Below, right, Eagle Creek gathers set of cube, half-cube and garment folder in its “pack-it” travel system. | Dillard’s pink leatherette cover declares the passport of the new “Mrs.” in gold foil lettering.
Food, oven thermometers
Trash, garbage cans
Kitchen timer
Wall and table clocks, alarm clock
Kitchen scissors
Candles, candle holders
Knife sharpener
Wall sconces/wall anchors
APPLIANCES
STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM
Magnifying mirror
Microwave oven
Bath towels
Coffee maker for single serving
Bath mat
and/or group
Shower and sink accessories
Coffee grinder
CD/DVD/magazine storage
Espresso/cappuccino machine
Traditional/robotic vacuum cleaner,
Toaster
specialty cleaning aids, hand vac
Mixer, hand and/or stand
Step stool
Food processor; hand blender
Iron, ironing board, steamer
Griddle
Laundry hamper
Soda machine
Storage boxes
Tea kettle
Entry, kitchen, bath mats
Bread maker
Tool set/toolbox/sewing kit
Juicer or extractor
Box of screws/box of nails
Iced tea maker
Cordless screwdriver
Indoor/outdoor grill
Cordless drill
Grilling utensils
Suitcases, backpacks, duffle bags
AROUND THE HOUSE
152
Picture frames
Cooler, regular size, mini and wheeled Portable chairs
Sheets, pillowcases, pillows
DVD/CD player/game system
Spread, blanket, comforter, duvet cover
TV
Memory foam mattress topper
Patio furniture
Desk lamp
Picnic basket
THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE
treasures
F E AT U R E S
To wear & share Items provided by DILLARD’S REGISTRY Photography courtesy of TROTTER PHOTO
SAY ‘THANK YOU’ TO CHARMING FRIENDS AND RELATIVES WHO HELP CREATE YOUR WEDDING. Clockwise, from bottom left, Charms of “Love” and “Mom” with Rafaelian gold/silver finish on bangle bracelets by Alex and Ani. | A “best friend” will be charmed by her designation with a sterling silver script initial and birthstone or pearl on a James Avery hammered hook-on bracelet. | Invite a bridesmaid and pour a toast in her stemless wine glass, a box gift exclusive from Dillard’s, on a soft Southern Living turkish cotton towel colored “duck egg blue.”
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BEJEWELED, REFLECTIVE, BREEZY GIFTS SPARK FASHION WITH FUN. Memories come in all shapes and sizes for a bridal couple and support crew. Left, The bride shows how her garden grows and glows in a multi-colored necklace by Betsey Johnson.
A wedding requires more than everyday glitz. Left, Start with heart designs by James Avery. A sterling silver band of connected hearts sized for a man or a woman symbolizes passion, love and commitment. Earrings in a free-flowing string shape connect with sterling silver ear posts. A necklace with free-moving 14k gold and sterling silver hearts interlock romantic appeal. | Right, Earrings, bracelet and “Y” necklace by Cezanne showcase a halo teardrop design.
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When registering for likable items that fit a couple’s style, unexpected details catch the eye. A couple finds luggage and wearables from head to toe for beach or hiking, plus his-andhers accessories like watches, wallets, footwear and gear to carry down the street or around the world.
Top to bottom, Anna & Ava hair accessories – bands, clips and comb – on a Vince Camuto satin pashmina in frosted purple color. | Kate Jandry white capelet with breezy flowers attached. | Assemble wine glass and pilsner beer glass for the bride and groom and a “to dos” wedding planner, both exclusive from Dillard’s; cake topper and vintage server matched by Mud Pie.
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L OV E S TORY
Tayler & Jeff SEPTEMBER 2, 2017
‘You could tell he had a big heart.’ STORY BY JANICE DENHAM
✿
PHOTOGRAPHY BY WHITE-KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY
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‘All of our friends and family were there.’ The desire to improve life for kids first
An easy fit. “You could tell he had a big heart,
made airy additions to flower arrangements and
attracted Tayler Marx and Jeff McCurdy. Close
especially when it comes to helping kids,” Tayler
bouquets.
family ties helped them draw up a blueprint for
said. She admired his development firm’s commit-
In the midst of wedding excitement, Tayler
their wedding and future together.
ment to the Compassion program, sponsoring
and Jeff appreciated a few moments together as
more than 800 kids internationally, and that day’s
everyone was being seated for dinner.
As organizer of the first volunteer event for the newly-formed Young Friends of Mercy in
“manual labor to make a child’s life better.”
“It is such a great day, but everything is a blur
the summer of 2015, Tayler and others her age
Tayler’s nursing compassion came into play
as you are pulled in so many directions,” Tayler
invited friends to a cleanup day at a St. Louis
on their first ski trip together, too. A friend’s
said. “We were able to take a deep breath and
school. A college buddy encouraged Jeff to come.
medical issues required three hazardous drives
soak in the fact that we were married!
“When he noticed I was struggling to hoe a
through a blizzard for aid. They admitted to
The bridal couple showed their sweet
flower bed, he stepped in to help,” she said. “He
answering the emergency bell, but usually prefer
hospitality. They love cheesecake, so Hank’s
spent the rest of the day helping me with various
to plan ahead. Jeff said, “We don’t really fly by
Cheesecake created a traditional one in tiers to
jobs and then invited me to the Cardinals’ game
night. We are both planners.”
cut and serve as wedding cake. “It was the perfect
the same night.”
Jeff kept the engagement ring in his sock
mix of traditional, but also something we loved,” the bride added.
For a first-day finale, the outdoors-minded
drawer for a month before proposing the day
Jeff invited Tayler to his favorite fishing
before they left on a European cruise. It was at
Mini milkshakes, with the couple’s picture
spot. What attracted them that first day? She
a favorite spot, the 11th tee box at Old Warson
attached to straws, and cheeseburgers were the
Country Club, with its view of downtown St.
late-evening snack. Another sweet treat of cookies
Louis. For the wedding, Jeff left planning to
came from Larry’s House of Cakes.
Tayler and said he “came along for moral support.”
“Cousins brought them from Marion, Ill., my
They were married at Ste. Genevieve duBois
parents’ hometown,” Jeff said. “My grandmother
Catholic Church on Sept. 2, 2017, with a reception
always had them at their house.” They gave them
at Old Warson – the same locations her parents
to guests as a takeaway that night, bagged with
chose to start marriage. A rehearsal dinner was at
thank-you cards printed with their crest.
Deer Creek Club, where her parents met.
While Tayler and Jeff planned a getaway with
Tayler wore her grandmother’s ring for
fireworks, her dad staged another as a surprise for
something blue and borrowed a bracelet from
them to enjoy, too, between sets by the live band,
her mother and her late grandmother’s pearl
J-Rob with big-band and Motown sounds. Their
bracelet from an aunt. They showed wedding-
superb farewell to guests ended a family-centered
day pictures of parents and grandparents on
plan, after they shared the day with people from
the escort card table. A total of six grandpar-
far and wide. Jeff said, “All of our friends and
ents attended, but a photo with her grandpar-
family were there.”
ents is especially memorable for her, because her
“The weather was perfect,” the bride recalled.
grandfather passed away since then. Children in
“We live just down the street, so we took the golf
the wedding party were from her cousins’ families.
cart home. It was so much fun!” See page 160.
“Jeff is very outdoorsy and loves to hunt,”
True to their outdoor-loving natures, they
laughed, “It certainly wasn’t looks. We were
Tayler said about a recurring detail. “He organized
left at 4 a.m. the next morning for a honeymoon
covered in dirt and sweat when we met.” Still,
a dove hunt the day before our wedding for close
cruise. Rather than sit on a beach, they traveled to
Jeff was impressed. “She was the only other person
guests and I thought pheasant feathers were a nod
Alaska and Whistler, British Columbia, to scale
there who was working hard.”
to the hunting side of him.”
a glacier, kayak, hike and fish for salmon, which they shipped home to relish later.
It was a hometown winner – no matter how
They used a crest, designed to incorporate
the baseball team played. She grew up in Rock
their first initials and feathers, on invitations
As they settled down to their future together,
Hill, Jeff in Ladue. Their parents live a mile apart
and programs for the wedding as well as the cuff
their thoughts were again on children and family
and the couple’s home is midway between them.
links which she gave him. Feathers themselves
– hoping to start one of their own.
PA R T Y PL A N S
away we go
Photography by WHITE-KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY
Blazing Farewell Tayler Marx and Jeff McCurdy scored big smiles as they set off after their wedding reception on Sept. 2, 2017, at Old Warson Country Club. All the coming and going on that big day of days requires thoughtful preparation to move easily back and forth, here to there. Options, which are boundless, may include the couple puttering away in a vehicle, owned by themselves or a relative, or wheeled delivery to destinations by limousine or horse-drawn carriage, school bus or party bus. This setting was memorable for guests who watched them disappear in a fond farewell amid a bright burst of fireworks. It also quietly transitioned the newlyweds into their new life at home. Their Love Story starts on page 157.
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ST. CHARLES COUNTY 7255 MEXICO RD. (St. Peters)..................................... (636) 2710 HWY K (O’ Fallon) ............................................ (636) 2214 FIRST CAPITOL ................................................. (636) 1290 JUNGERMANN (At McClay - St. Peters) ............... (636)
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SOUTH 1903 RICHARDSON Road (At Jeffco) ........................... (636) 5452 TELEGRAPH RD. ................................................ (314) 8562 WATSON RD.................................................... (314) 4631 HAMPTON ...................................................... (314) 2211 LEMAY FERRY RD. (At Reavis Barracks) ................. (314) 524 Old Smizer Mill Road (Dierberg’s Plaza) ................ (636) 12444 TESSON FERRY (Next to Dierberg’s)................... (314)
464-4503 892-9773 842-3271 353-5486 892-6037 343-2808 842-7570
ILLINOIS 4237 S. State Rte. 159 (Glen Carbon).......................... (618) 288-5276
WEST 10000 MANCHESTER (Glendale) ................................ (314) 2038 MCKELVEY RD. (North of Dorsett) ........................ (314) 8034 BIG BEND (West of Murdoch) ............................. (314) 15372 MANCHESTER (Ellisville) .................................. (636) 14878 W. CLAYTON (At Baxter) ................................. (636) 8637 OLIVE STREET RD. (West of McKnight Rd.) ............ (314) 13960 MANCHESTER RD ........................................... (636) 11041 OLIVE STREET (Creve Coeur)............................. (314) 7501 DELMAR .......................................................... (314) 429 LAFAYETTE CENTER (Manchester) .......................... (636)
821-2373 878-4024 961-1373 227-9443 391-1275 567-6680 227-8299 872-9393 862-1313 527-8009
NORTH 10655 ST. CHARLES ROCK RD.................................... (314) 427-8661
SEE WEBSITE FOR COMPLETE CONTEST RULES AND DETAILS. ONE ENTRY PER ENGAGED COUPLE.