EA Bride Winter 2014

Kansas City

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Winter Edition 2014 » $4.80

EA Bride Winter 2014 $4.80 Shelve until 12/31/14

Evergreens & Ever After

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Champagne & Chiffon

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A Perfect Honeymoon

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Contents 6 A Legacy of Love 10 Unlocking Staley Farms 12 Couples Corner 18 Dreaming of Destinations: Secrets Aura Cozumel, Mexico 24 Sunless is Smarter 27 Calendar of Events 28 Marry Me KC 32 Bridal Party Timeline 34 Evergreens & Ever After 42 Be Engaged During Your Engagement 46 An Escape to the Estate 52 Insurance Insight 56 Etsy: Editors Favorite Finds 60 Champagne & Chiffon 68 A Perfect Honeymoon 70 Words of the Wedding Wise 78 Real Life Insights 80 Ask the Expert 83 Society Pages 2

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p. 29 p. 63 p. 90

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p. 7 p. 38

EA Bride Staff » Winter 2014 Christie Scott Publisher christie@eabride.com

Nathan Fried Lead Design & Branding nathan@eabride.com

Britney Beach Executive Editor britney@eabride.com

Treasa Hershberger VP of Sales treasa@eabride.com

Jana Marler Art Director jana@eabride.com

Christine Busch Layout Designer

A special thanks to our contributing writers : Beverly Falley, Channa Clemens, Lindsay Russ, Ron Ruth, Steven Kohnle, Timmy Gibson

Amani Skalacki Creative Director amani@eabride.com

EA Bride info@eabride.com www.eabride.com Ph. 816.272.5143 Published Quarterly in January, April, July, & October.

Printed in the USA by Harvest Graphics Advertising Inquiries: Email: info@eabride.com Copyright 2014 for EA Bride. All rights reserved.

Cover.

Location: Strawberry Hill Christmas Tree Farm Photographers: Melissa & Beth Photography Makeup & Hair: Heidi Seager Bowles Flowers: Audrey Hatler, Beyond the Bloom Stylist: Amani Skalacki Dresses & Accessories: Mia’s Bridal Models: Eileen– Voices&, Lacy- Voices&, KeithManifest Talent, Declan- Hoffman Int’l Model & Talent Agency

The views expressed in this magazine and through the advertisements do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of EA Bride Magazine.

No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited materials. EA Bride is not responsible for the return of any materials or artwork submitted. EA Bride shall have no liability for errors, omissions, or inadequacies in the information herein or the interpretations thereof. We have no liability for the infringement of copyright, and reserve the right to edit any and all submissions before publication. Any reproduction of any form without written consent is strictly prohibited. All requests can be sent to info@eabride.com.

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ge Photo by Photos Ed

Letter from the Publisher It’s official! This issue marks the completion of four years, and the beginning of our fifth year in business. It has definitely been a wild ride, and we couldn’t be more excited about the future of EA Bride. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and I think the same can be said of launching a magazine. Regardless of where we go in the future, and where we’re going, I find it important to remember where we’ve been, and who helped us get there. That’s why I would like to take this opportunity to thank a few of those on the ground floor, that put together, helped create this magazine, and make it such a success.

Christie Scott Publisher

I want to extend a huge thank you to my business partner, Nathan, who has done more to get this thing off the ground than words can possibly express. To my amazing parents, who have been my biggest cheerleaders and support system, thank you. To Robert Prutsman, who took the leap from Corporate America to help steer this ship in it’s infancy, it means more than I can say. I feel forever indebted to Laurel Austin for rocking out our first few photo shoots and setting a precedence for amazing imagery. Thank you Mike of Freeland Photography, for you were the first advertiser to take a leap of faith and jump on board with us. I will never forget the feeling of leaving your office for the first time, confident that we were on the verge of something great! To Britney, whose organization and ability to keep this ship sailing has saved me many times and means more than you know. And to Jana, whose awesome vision has had a positively profound effect on our imagery since you stepped on board! To Christine Busch, who is simply gifted in graphic design and is the reason all of our ideas are translated so well throughout the pages. To Christine Saxer, who worked tirelessly and took on the insurmountable task of putting together our first bridal show, thank you will never quite be enough! And of course to all of our cheerleaders, readers, and everyone that took a chance to see just what EA could be. Thank you for your support, for believing in us when we were just feeling our way through the waters, and for rallying behind us as we enter into this 5th year.

I couldn’t be more excited for all the future issues to come, and this one is no exception. With some amazing photo shoots, and equally creative content, we hope this is one more way we can make your entire planning experience more prosperous!

Happy Reading!

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inspiration:

A Legacy of

love

Location: Staley Farms Golf Club / Art Director: Amani Skalacki / Photographer: Kenny Johnson Photography / Hair & Makeup: Michele Taylor / Dress & Accessories: Bridal Extraordinaire / Grooms Attire: Men’s Wearhouse / Catering: Staley Farms Golf Club / Flowers: Blue Bouquet Floral and Event Design / Models: Ariel– Donna Baldwin Agency Denver CO, Gilberto- Manifest Talent 6

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Unlocking:

Staley Farms It can’t be mistaken, when you pull up to Staley Farms Golf Club you are immediately drawn to the flawless infrastructure of the clubhouse.

Massive wooden beams frame the entrance complete with stone accenting on each side. As you walk through the front doors, you immediately notice that no expense was spared on making the inside just as beautiful. The same stunning wood beams are set like framework on the high ceilings and stone fireplaces warming the room, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Vaulted chandeliers light the room a golden tone and lavish tables and chairs are awaiting your guest’s arrival.

As if the inside isn’t enough, just step outdoors to take in the perfectly manicured grounds and golfing greens. Outdoor ceremonies take place under the blue skies with a perfectly situated aisle running along the grass and between white wood folding chairs. No worries of bad weather, ceremonies can also be hosted inside in front of the elegant stone fireplace.

After the ceremony your guests can make their way to the rustic threesided bar for a cocktail while you make your way around the grounds for endless photo opportunities. Don’t take too long though, because the expert chef and professionally trained staff are ready to proudly present an exceptional meal.

When preparing for a remarkable wedding, don’t pass on a location that is sure to provide you breathtaking backdrops for all the special moments, excellent customer service that will please yourself and guests, and the ability to enjoy your day, knowing that everything has been handled by proficient Staley Farms staff.

10310 North Olive Avenue Kansas City, MO 64155 (816) 734-3839 www.staleyfarmsgolf.com Maximum Capacity: 200 guests In addition to weddings, Staley Farms is home to rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, bachelor parties, meetings and holiday parties.

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Photo by Capture Photography

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Couples Corner

Engaged Couple: Dan Meagher + Gina Gerstner Wedding Date: August 23rd, 2014

How did you two meet?

Bride: We met through mutual friends on St. Patrick’s Day in 2012. As it turned out, one of my best friends worked with Dan’s friend and our two groups spent the day together. It was the luck of the Irish!

Groom: While living in St. Louis, I had a job interview in Kansas City and decided to stay to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Gina and I were introduced through mutual friends, and having already had a few beverages that morning, I immediately asked her to dance.

How long did it take to realize he/she was the one?

B: I knew within the first couple months of dating that Dan was the one. We complement each other so well and we clicked from the start. It was so exciting to find the man of my dreams, but also surreal to know I found my soul mate.

G: It only took a couple months. From the start, there was a connection between us that I had never experienced before. I found myself thinking about how perfect she was for me shortly after we started dating.

How do you two make it work?

B: We are both ambitious people and our personalities mesh so well. I help keep him organized and he challenges me to do things outside of my comfort zone. We love spending time together, but also have our own interests/hobbies so we make sure to balance both.

G: We find new activities to experience together.

Our personalities and senses of humor are so similar that we enjoy so many things: traveling, trying a new sushi restaurant, competing in Tough Mudders, joining bowling leagues…

What do you plan to splurge on with the wedding?

B: We are splurging on our reception venue. We immediately fell in love with it and knew it had the classic elegance we wanted. We’re also adding a lot of fun and personalized elements to the reception like a photo booth.

G: We have both been reasonable and have not over spent in many areas of the wedding. Instead of splurging on parts of the wedding, we saved money in order to take a week long, all-inclusive honeymoon in the Dominican Republic.

What has surprised you most about the planning process?

B: I’ve been pleasantly surprised at how smooth our planning process has been. Whenever we’re making decisions, Dan and I work together as a team and make the decisions together. We don’t sweat the small stuff.

G: We haven’t run into any complications in our planning. We heard horror stories when getting started, but there haven’t been any problems or roadblocks in checking items off our list.

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Newlywed Couple: Ben & Brittany Scott Together: 7 years Wedding Date: July 2nd, 2011

Photo by n. kristine photography

What was the best thing about your wedding?

What is the best part about marriage?

Bride: Walking down the aisle to Ben. We were surrounded by all of the people we love and seeing the person I love most waiting for me at the end was such an emotional moment.

B: To have my own personal cheerleader who constantly supports me no matter how big my dreams are.

Groom: Knowing that at the end of the day I was married to the woman of my dreams.

G: Having somebody to share your thoughts and dreams with that you know will always be by your side.

Looking back on it, what would you have done differently?

What is the hardest part about marriage?

B: The only thing I would have changed was the guest list. Although we only had 130 people, I wish I had only invited our family and closest friends.

Half of the people we haven’t seen or talked to since we’ve been married, so it seems a bit silly now that they were part of our big day.

B: Time – sometimes we get so caught up in what is going on that we forget to stop, slow down and enjoy the ride hand in hand.

G: I would have invited less people to make it a more intimate wedding.

What’s the biggest difference in your relationship now that you are married?

B: Knowing that no matter the up and downs I have a sidekick to enjoy life with each and every day for the rest of my life.

G: Honestly, we waited for marriage so the biggest difference is sex.

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G: Letting routine overpower spontaneity.

Sometimes we have to take a step back and remember to still date each other.

Photo by LTM Photography

Long-Term Love:

What is the biggest difference in your relationship now that you have been married for several years?

Bride: We have both changed as individuals. We are not the same people we were when we got married but we have learned to love each other more.

Groom: I feel closer to her. She has become my best friend. I cannot imagine my life without her.

What is the most surprising difference between dating and marriage?

B: The biggest difference is there is a deeper commitment between us. We both know that no matter what, we will stick it out together.

G: Learning how to live together. We had to figure out what the other one liked and disliked.

Nicholas & Samantha Bennett Together: 6 years Wedding Date: September 25th, 2009

What do you remember most from your wedding day?

B: I remember being exhausted. The day was so long. I didn't get to take the time to step back and just celebrate the fact that I married my best friend.

G: How beautiful my wife was. She took my breath away when she walked down the aisle.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?

B: I would have taken the time to be in the moment with my new husband and less time stressing the small stuff.

G: I would have put more money into the venue and got married where we wanted.

Any advice for other couples?

B: Make time for each other. You are constantly going to find life getting in the way but marraige is worth the sacrifice of your time.

G: Communication – take the time to talk about your problems.

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weddings From traditionally elegant to simply modern our Hy-Vee wedding experts will help you every step of the way. Fresh flowers, luscious cake and delicious food create an ambiance that invites friends and family to enjoy your special day. To get started, call the catering coordinator for an appointment. We cannot wait to help make your day magical.

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9400 E. 350 Hwy 816-358-9940 Catering: Sam Horkman

Dreaming of Destinations:

Secrets Aura Cozumel, Mexico The best part about going through all of the details of planning a wedding is, of course, to marry your best friend. But a close runner-up is being able to jet off to an escape afterwards, also known as the honeymoon.

While getting prepared for the wedding, the excitement for the honeymoon can easily slip ones mind. That is exactly what happened to me. I was so focused on the wedding details that I nearly forgot that I was leaving for a seven-day vacation in the Caribbean. But let me tell you, when that marvelous wedding day passed, you couldn’t hold me back from getting on that plane.

So here, months after my own experience, I would like to help you. Let’s save time on looking through hundreds of travel sites online and just cut to the chase. The island in which you should be traveling to is Cozumel. The resort in which you should be staying at is Secrets Aura. It’s really as easy as that, but if you need to know a little more, here are a few details The Island Cozumel is located off the Eastern coastline of Mexico in the Caribbean Sea. You might not believe it before you get there, but the waters are the clearest you will ever see; right off a dock you can see stingray and fish in their natural habitat.

Needless to say, Cozumel is ranked one of the top locations in the world for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Cozumel is also a short ferry ride away from Playa del Carmen.

To our surprise, there was local entertainment on the ferry and we were able to enjoy the short trip with local music and a cold beverage- no need to stop the vacation to hop over to the mainland.

Once we arrived, we glided on zip lines through the jungle, repelled into and snorkeled through cenotes, and enjoyed a traditional Mayan lunch.

The Mayan culture is fluent throughout this region of Mexico. There are ruins you can experience on the island or you can go to the mainland to visit Tulum, Coba, or the Chichen Itza ruins, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World Being that this was our first time to Cozumel, we were very impressed with the combination of culture and beauty. There is so much to experience and we felt safe everywhere we went.

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The Resort Regardless if you are adventure-seeker like we are, or you just want to relax and enjoy the sun, Secrets Aura is where you want to be. It is located a few minutes from the airport and is situated close to everything on the island. Further more, it is an all-inclusive, adult (aka no whiny kids on your honeymoon) resort that caterers to all of your needs.

Dining Rooms Let’s say you want to splurge: well you won’t regret it. The premium rooms are two levels. The downstairs features a spa styled bathroom, couch sitting area, private balcony and plush bed. The upstairs has your own private plunge pool that faces the ocean. Does is really get better than that?

Let’s say you want to save money for excursions. One of the main appeals of this resort is that the standard suites have private pool access.

You didn’t read that wrong, you can literally get in the pool right from the balcony of your room.

Public Dining: The meals are included with your stay, so you can enjoy any of the restaurants or room service complimentary at any time. We decided to try it all. We tried the causal beach restaurant, the high-end dining experience, and of course, room service. All of our meals were cooked to perfection. I will not regret going outside my box to try some local seafood and other unique dishes that I wouldn’t dare try at home. The flavoring of the entrees was spectacular. The fresh guacamole and pico alone is enough to celebrate over.

Private Dining: One of the perks of being on a honeymoon is that you can splurge a little without feeling guilty about it. I would highly recommend taking advantage of one (or more) of Aura’s private dining experiences. It will be just the two of you, in paradise, eating amazing food, and enjoying a sunset from the beach or private pier. As if that isn’t enough, you get to hand pick your meal, wine, and even the floral centerpiece colors.

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Activities We Recommend The Spa The day after we arrived to Aura, we made sure to start the relaxation off right with a trip to the spa. We had appointments set for a massage and pedicure, but ended up with more than we expected.

The moment we walked into the door we were welcomed with cucumber water. Then before the spa, we sat in the dry sauna, steam shower, hot tub, relaxation room, and then made our way to the 90-minute massage. If there is anything that can eliminate the stress from planning a wedding, it was this. After the massage, we got our feet washed and then (don’t cringe on me) did a fish treatment on our feet. Basically, you put your feet in a tank and fish (without teeth) clean the dead skin off. It may not be for everyone, but once again, the honeymoon card trumped us from holding back. After the fish, we moved on to our immaculate pedicures.

• Scuba Diving or Snorkeling • Photography Session on Island • Jungle Tour • Parasailing • Horseback Riding • Mayan Ruin Tours • Tequila Tasting • ATV Tours • Deep Sea Fishing Try to avoid While they look like a blast, avoid renting the mopeds. Local driving expectations are different than in the states and there are several close calls and hospitalized injuries due to impact with a full-sized vehicle.

Destination Weddings Secrets Aura is home to beautiful weddings year round. Due to my personal love of everything weddings, I met with the wedding coordinator to find out more. Service seems to be key when they are planning an event. They take your vision and bring it to life on the shores of Cozumel. From the flowers to the ceremony backdrop, music, ice sculptures; they have every base covered with local professionals that are trusted to provide impeccable service. The best part for you, the couple, is that when your guests make reservations to stay at the resort for your wedding, their food and beverage for your reception has been included with the all-inclusive pricing. Therefore, it makes the expense for hosting a wedding substantially reduced.

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memorable and simply unique!

Schedule your tour today. We would love to meet you!

13500 Nall Avenue Overland Park, KS 913-681-2165 Northbrook, IL

South Barrington, IL

Oak Brook, IL

Edina, MN

PINSTRIPES.COM

Georgetown, D.C.

Chicago, IL

sunless is Smarter

By Channa Clemens

Channa Clemens is the owner and operator of TanPerfekt, a company specializing in sunless tanning.

With both a store front and mobile capabilities, she can access the entire metro and beyond. Her specialty lies in bronzing both brides and professional figure competitors. And with five years in the industry, she’s developed the art of Spray Tanning into a science! For more information, contact her at 913.488.4287 or visit the website at ww.tanperfekt.com.

Sunless Tanning (aka spray tanning) is still a taboo word for most Midwest Brides. Many people are haunted with images of a strange shade of orange. The fact is, those days are long gone. The beauty industry has come a long way to make sure today’s spray tanning solutions leave you looking like the bronze Goddess you’re going for. For those of you still seeing orange, the more likely culprit is an inadequately trained airbrush artist. After five years in the industry, I’ve seen everything under the color spectrum, and have been called upon to fix some lessbefore than-stellar sprays.

In addition to an overall bad tan, terrible tan lines can be just as bad. Ladies, for the sake of your sanity and the wedding pictures, I advise brides to stay out of the sun for a month before their big day. If you are not going for a sunless glow, then bask in your natural beauty. Not only is it dangerous, It is difficult to “fix” deeply tanned lines from tanning beds or natural sun.

Staying out of the sun completely isn’t necessary, as 10 minutes a day won’t do too much damage. However, we (beauty experts, doctors, dermatologists, etc…) do preach abstinence from sunbathing/ faking baking. Here are a few reasons why:

1. It could save your life and your looks! Taking precautions now can save you from looking like leather later.

2. Tanning machines emit dangerous ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and frequent tanners using new high-pressure tanning beds/sunlamps may receive as much as 12 times the annual ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation they would receive from regular sun exposure.

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3. UV radiation is a proven human carcinogen, and is linked with a higher risk of all forms of skin cancer, including potentially deadly melanoma, which is the most common form of cancer.

4. The damage caused by the UV radiation emitted by the sun and tanning beds is cumulative and often irreversible. The destructive process of photo-aging, premature skin aging due to UV exposure, produces profound structural changes in the skin including fine wrinkles, deep grooves, blotchiness, sagging and a leathery texture.

None of these sound SEXY at all!

after

5. People who first use a tanning bed before age 35 increase their risk for melanoma by 75 percent.

Yes there are many of you out there saying, “But it can’t happen to me or cancer doesn’t run in my family”. It can happen to you – no one is immune to cancer – even celebrities such as Hugh Jackman and Dave Letterman aren’t immune and have had skin cancer moles taken off their bodies.

Sunless tanning/spray tanning is a healthy alternative and is a quick way of getting a glow within 10 minutes.

Everyone can benefit from the moisturizers and antioxidants that are applied with the spray tanning/airbrush process.

And with a weeks worth of glowing skin, this will take you up through your big day AND honeymoon to boot!

Bottom line ladies - when looking for a glow, GO SUNLESS! Your skin, body and wallet will thank you in years to come! For those of you who are skeptics of a sunless glow – please see my before and after of a recent bride and groom.

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Perfection

PICTURE

FROM SIMPLE ROMANCE TO TOTAL EXTRAVAGANCE, your every wish is our command on your special day.

Our talented team will bring your vision to life with spectacular décor and the finest catering, no matter what you dream up.

Call us today at 855-MEET-CET or email Meet@Caesars.com for more details.

Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-888-BETSOFF. Must be 21 or older to participate, gamble or obtain a Total Rewards® card. ©2014, Caesars License Company, LLC.

September 25th – 27th Mori Lee Fall 2014 Trunk Show

October 30th – November 1st Maggie Sottero Fall 2014 Trunk Show

Saturday, November 8th Fall 2014 Wedding Gown Sample Sale

Info for all events: 2235 E Kansas City Rd, Olathe, KS 66061 (913) 764-9114 www.miasbridal.com for more information

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It was a perfect summer day and the scene was set. The lawns were lush, the breeze was just right, and love was certainly in the air. As soon as we stepped foot inside, we knew Staley Farms was the perfect setting for a perfect proposal.

Months ago, we were contacted by a man named Tam. He was hopelessly in love and couldn’t wait to ask his girl, Anna, to rock his world by making her his wife. But, as he explained how deserving she was of nothing less than the best, he knew this was a story that would live on for years to come, and needed it to be nothing short of spectacular. So, he put his faith in the EA Dream Team, and called upon us to help him execute a proposal worthy of writing home about.

We put our heads together, and with the help of Jeff Miller and Tamara Schranz of Staley Farms, we concocted the perfect scheme. Tam would lure Anna into the clubhouse on the premise that they were celebrating their anniversary with the Five-star fare the Farms had to offer. We had the beautifully secluded Legacy Room decked in florals and a sweetheart table set for two.

Once they finished dining, they were escorted to a golf cart, where they could take a drive around the course under the guise of checking out the real estate. Little did Anna know that when they rounded the corner between the 8th and 9th holes, there would be a special surprise in store.

A picture perfect scene complete with crystals hanging from the trees, flowers perfectly placed along the path, and a picnic basket filled with four custom created cupcakes from HyVee, with the words “Will You Marry Me?” written on top.

As soon as she set eyes on the treats and read the question, her hands sprang to her face and tears of joy streamed down her cheeks. She said YES! And with that, they were off into the night to celebrate the next big chapter in their lives.

with asking the question the right way! Tune into www.eabride.com to see the video of this awesome evening taking place!

And EA Bride had successfully pulled off our very first proposal plan! It was only natural that we would want to help couples start this phase of the planning process. While the engagement process is filled with months of preparations for the big day, it helps when it starts off on the right foot

For help in finding a way to ask that she’ll never forget and is almost guaranteed to get a “yes,” please write us at Proposals@eabride.com for a consultation to create your own custom question!

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Location: Staley Farms Golf Club Photographer: Kenny Johnson Photography Set Stylist: Amani Skalacki and Michele Taylor Catering: Staley Farms Golf Club Cupcakes: HyVee (Lee's Summit) Videographer: Hawleywood Films

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bridal party

timeline The rehearsal and wedding day can be chaotic not only for you, but also the bridal party. Do your friends a favor and create them a schedule of the weekend’s events.

Include the event name, location, and time for which they need to be there.

Hand out the schedules at your bridal shower, bachelorette party, or simply email them right before the wedding.

Here are a few examples to get you started.

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inspiration:

Evergreens & Ever

after

Location: Strawberry Hill Christmas Tree Farm / Art Directors: Melissa Rieke and Beth Hodge / Photographers: Melissa & Beth Photography / Makeup & Hair: Heidi Seager Bowles / Flowers: Audrey Hatler, Beyond the Bloom / Stylist: Amani Skalacki / Styling Assistant: Nove Engle / Dresses & Accessories: Mia’s Bridal / Cake: Cami’s Cake Co / Invitation & table numbers: Indie Olive Paper and Press Boutique / Rentals: Celebration Party Rentals / Models: Eileen– Voices&, Lacy- Voices&, Keith- Manifest Talent, Declan- Hoffman Int’l Model & Talent Agency 34

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Justin Alexander Sincerity & Sweetheart Restored and Re-purposed Vintage Gowns Dressy Bridesmaid Dresses Custom Flower Girl Dresses "Something New"-bring in your heirloom gown and have it made into a dress of your own. ivorylacebridal.com 660.362.0675 120 W Pine, Warrensburg MO 64093 ivorylacebridal@gmail.com Store Hours: Tues-Friday 11:00-5:30, Saturday 9:00-3:30 Appointments PreferredÂ

be engaged

By Timmy Gibson, Relationship Coach Timmy Gibson is Kansas City’s relationship expert. Along with his wife of 20 years, Jana, they founded Restore, which is a Relationship Coaching Service with a vision to help couples have the kind of relationship they’ve always dreamed of having. They have been helping couples write their love story for over 15 years here in Kansas City and are considered the go-to couple for all things relationships. Timmy is also the founder and lead teacher at Mercy Church here in Kansas City.

You can find out more about Timmy at www.timmygibson.com or www.mercychurchKC.com.

I meet a lot of couples that find themselves slammed during their engagement in preparation for the wedding day. They are nearly to the point of almost collapsing at the altar from stress and exhaustion. I think there is a better way, not just in preparation for the wedding day itself, but the marriage and the relationship.

One of my opening lines when I meet with a couple for the first time as their wedding officiant is, “I want to help you have a wonderful wedding ceremony, but more importantly I want to help you have a wonderful marriage!” And I continue to tell them how the wedding day will come and go, and you may even miss it if you blink. Unless you are Catholic (big smile) a typical wedding ceremony is 25 minutes, and sometimes less. This is why the wedding reception and honeymoon are so important… and of course most importantly the relationship after all that cool wedding stuff has passed. The saying, “where the rubber meets the road” applies when you arrive home from the honeymoon and you are back to work, school, and everyday life.

Here are some simple things to do during the engagement period to make sure you don’t collapse at the altar on your wedding day.

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1. Go on a date each week and don’t talk about the wedding!

3. Take advantage of some premarital counseling.

Don’t ask if he got all the groomsmen fitted for their tuxes. Don’t check to make sure the cake was ordered and they know you want Glutenfree. The questions can go on for days. Talk about everything else, except for the wedding.

Some people don’t want to sit down face to face with a pastor or counselor and do what is the traditional premarital counseling. I can understand that. Sometimes it’s the time commitment required, trying to get schedules to align. I get that as well, I really do. But, what you value you make time for and invest in. If you value your relationship then you will invest in it and not just invest all your time and energy in the 30-minute wedding ceremony. The relationship itself is what is the most important.

Things to talk about: • Items you’d like to accomplish in the next year • Goals for family, career, health, hobbies, etc.

• Crazy dreams and aspirations. No limits • Happy family memories

2. Take time for yourself each week.

There are a million different things you can do for yourself, the key is to do what YOU like to do and don’t feel guilty about doing it: • Workout (yoga, bike ride, hike, jog, etc) • Sit and read by a fire with a great cup of tea or coffee

Here at Restore Coaching Services, we’ve made it easy and FREE for you to get some premarital counseling without hassle and on your own time. It’s all online on my blog at www.Timmy Gibson.com. Just scroll through the “topics” and click on “Premarital Counseling” and there are videos, blogs, and other resources for you to go through that will get you headed in the right direction. If you desire to go deeper, give us a call.

• Snuggle up and watch your favorite movie • Go shopping • Hang with your buddies and smoke some premium cigars • Pamper yourself (massage, pedicure, manicure, facial, etc.)

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inspiration:

An

escape to the Estate

Location: Timberlake Estates / Art Director: Amani Skalacki / Photographer: Kenny Johnson Photography / Hair & Makeup: Traci Morby, Making Beautiful / Dresses & Accessories: Mia’s Bridal / Grooms Attire: Mia’s Bridal and Todd’s Clothiers / Pie: HyVee / Flowers: provided by DWF and arranged by Michele Taylor / Invitation Suite: Yellow Brick Graphics / Rentals: Celebration Party Rentals / Models: Colette– Hoffman Int’l Model & Talent Agency, Abby-Hoffman Int’l Model & Talent Agency, Jimmy- Manifest Talent

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Let our family take care of yours.

Your Vision...our venue Come see what is new at The Baltimore club

1228 Baltimore Ave. Kansas City, MO 64105 816.221.8986 TheBaltimoreClub.com

Insurance Insight

By Steven Kohnle

Has it ever occurred to you that you spend so much time planning for that one big day, yet put so little thought into planning for the rest of your lives together?

Let’s face it, insurance doesn’t make for sexy subject matter, so we naturally spend as little time as possible studying it. Yet, you likely spend more in premiums per year than you did on your entire honeymoon that you spent weeks planning every aspect of. There are some obvious facts to insurance, such as its necessity.

But, there are a lot of “gray area” gaps that may leave you feeling less than secure.

Luckily, I’ve gathered a few of my favorite “likely forgotten” tidbits to give you peace of mind long after your walk down the aisle.

1. When contemplating the big name change, many people automatically think of their Drivers License, credit cards, and bank accounts. Some less obvious ones to remember are your voter registration cards, utilities, and your passport. And if you change your name within a year of getting your passport in the first place, it’s free! But, before you rush with excitement to sign your new initials, wait until after the honeymoon. Trust me, you don’t want to tempt potential disaster if your documents don’t arrive when expected!

2. No one wants to dwell on his own demise, especially when you’re feeling like an immortal newlywed, ready to take on the world. In fact, I don’t even like to think of life insurance myself. That’s why I think of it as “Income Protection.” Sure, you may have great genes and be gluten free, but 90% of deaths with people under the age of 60 are accident-related. Nothing in life is guaranteed, so don’t let tragedy affect your quality of life. And if you’re like the majority of people without coverage who believe they can’t afford it, you need to know that the earlier in life you get life insurance, the less you pay out of your pocket in premiums.

3. Now that you’re married, you can take advantage of more discounts than just your gym/ Costco Membership fees. Have your agent evaluate all of your policies across the board to see where bundling makes sense, and saves you money.

Being married in and of itself reduces your rates. Then, just as you might get a family cell phone plan, the more assets you roll into one, the more you save when it’s all said and done. To the tune of 50%. I, for one, can think of many more ways I’d rather spend that extra money.

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4. Spring is the busiest seasons for weddings and the air is thick with love. But it’s also storm season, and storms often mean undue damage. When you’re so caught up in the planning process, many people make haphazard mistakes that cost them much more in the end, such as letting their insurance lapse. And when you’re worried about whether your 275 guests will show, you’re likely not thinking of the 12,000 hail storms that fly through the US each year. And in terms of auto insurance, 1 in 6 drivers are not even insured. Make sure your policy covers every which way it could happen, so a freak accident doesn’t leave you financially wrecked! Ask yourself what happens when you run into a deer, and then ask yourself if you know your policy as well as you should.

5. Insurance related or not, the biggest piece of advice I can offer my clients is to be the advocate for open lines of communication, especially when it’s financially speaking.

Most people don’t have the “Kimye” bottomless money pit to fund their future, and just as you set a budget for your wedding, you should set a budget for your life. And make sure that you’re including the necessities, so when life happens, you can just keep on living.

Like I said earlier, insurance comes with a lot of gray matter, and a lot of thinking to do. Luckily, you don’t have to do much more than consult a trusted agent. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. This is your policy you’re paying for and your future to protect. Shop around, but know what your getting before you rely on rates alone. And despite sounding like a shameless plug to build my own book of business, if you have questions, I promise to get you answers. For more information about how insurance affects your life and what to do about it, visit me at www.farmers.com/gkohnle

Beverly Falley

Making honeymoon dreams come true.

785.331.3311

bevfalley@gmail.com

Not only are these my favorite finds on Etsy, I also personally selected them to be used at my own wedding. After seeing the quality in person, I highly recommend each item and provider to you for your big day.

1. “The Perfect Match” Foil Stamped Matchbox These matchboxes are a great addition if you are having a cigar bar or sparkler exit. You customized the box color and the foil lettering color as well. One side reads “The Perfect Match” and the opposite side features your names and wedding date.

Price: 50 boxes for $119 Etsy Store: Tea&Becky

4. I’m Her Mr. & I’m His Mrs. Signs

2. Personalized Double Lined Hanger

How adorable are these signs? Hang them on the back of your chairs at the reception for the perfect photo opportunity.

This is the perfect hanger for your wedding gown. The top line features a heart and the second line can be customized to your liking.

Also can be a special gift for your bridesmaids with their names on the line.

This water bottle label is customized with your initials and wedding color. It is then emailed to you so that you can print at home or through a local printer.

Price: $12 Etsy Store: CreativePapier

Price: $250 Etsy Store: CrestnCrew

3. Fingerprint Water Bottle Labels

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5. Embellished Crystal Sash To say this sash is “blinged” out is an understatement.

It literally sparkles as any hint of light hits it, making it the perfect addition to your wedding gown. The sash comes with an ivory colored ribbon so that you can easily tie it around your waist.

Price: $6 Etsy Store: TheEliteBride

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Price: $38.95 Etsy Store: LizzyandCompany

8. Groomsmen Engraved Cigar Box & Flask Set There is nothing manlier than whiskey and cigars. This cigar box and whiskey set is customized with the initials of each of your groomsmen. You get the choice font and stain.

Price: $225 for a set of 7 Etsy Store: TheSmilinBride

9. Custom Mr. & Mrs. Cake Topper 6. Adorned Tulle Flower Girl Dress Your little flower girl is sure to feel like a princess in this tulle dress! You can choose from different styles, sizes, and colors. And who know- these dresses are made in Missouri!

Price: $85+ Etsy Store: ThePrincessAndTheBouf

7. Pearl & Rhinestone Bridesmaid Jewelry

This acrylic cake topper is the perfect selection to adorn your wedding cake.

Provide your last name and the color that matches your decorations, and it arrives three weeks later. The best part is that after the wedding, you can take the legs (that stick into the cake) off and use it as a decoration at home or in your memory album.

Price: $30 Etsy Store: ThePinkOwlGifts

This jewelry is the perfect balance of bling and sophistication. Mix and match the set to include the exact pieces you wish to gift your girls. The pearl comes in champagne, blush, and ivory. Each set arrives in a beautifully decorated box, ready for wrapping.

Looking for a stunning piece to place in your hair for the wedding? This head comb is nothing short of stunning. Place it on the edge of a side bun or on the top of your crown where a veil would traditionally be located.

Price: $14+ Etsy Store: LilykayCouture

Price: $45 Etsy Store: LillyKnots

10. Rhinestone Head Piece

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Jimmy & Britney Jones

an Elms Affair

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Stylist: Plush Productions Day-Of Coordinator: Events by Nellie Ceremony & Reception Location: The Elms Ceremony Musician: Patrick Lentz Florist: Andrea K. Grist Floral Designs Photographer: Jana Marie Photography Videographer: Cork Creative Master of Ceremonies: Ron Ruth Wedding Entertainment Band: Patrick Lentz Band

DJ: Remix DJ Ice Sculpture: Cool Carvings Cake: Baked Expressions Photo Booth: Banana Who Booth Hair: Maggie Malone Make-up: Making Beautiful Dress: Emily Hart Bridal Tux: Vera Wang Officiant: Timmy Gibson

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honeymoon A Perfect

Why to Seek out a Specialist

By: Beverly Falley

The venue is reserved, the colors are chosen, the photographer is booked, the music is coordinated and every detail is reviewed and scrutinized to ensure that the wedding day will be perfect. Now it is time to think about your honeymoon. Just like the wedding day, the honeymoon is an important part of the planning process, and one that should be fun. This is a time that you can enjoy together, relaxing and celebrating your new life together.

What is the first thing you do when beginning to plan the perfect vacation? Do you sit down at the computer and begin searching “Honeymoon Destinations”, “Beach Honeymoons”, “Best Honeymoon Deals” or something similar? If so, you will be extremely overwhelmed with websites of hotel destinations, tourist boards, and doit-yourself travel booking sites promising the “cheapest” rooms or the best “romance packages” for your honeymoon. Everyone wants a good deal. But, how do you know which are legitimate and which are just...”cheap”?

The first place to turn when beginning to plan your honeymoon is to an experienced travel agent with specialized knowledge in honeymoon planning. Don’t make the mistake of following a beautiful wedding with a disastrous honeymoon. You may ask, “What can a travel agent do for me that I can’t do myself?”

Here are just a few reasons why consulting with a travel professional is crucial when planning your honeymoon.

Experience Professional travel consultants are trained experts with the ability to sort through the myriad of travel information available and to help you choose the best honeymoon options to match your personal desires. They have invaluable knowledge of the best

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resources and suppliers gained through personal experience, not available through an on-line search. They are also experts in interpreting complex travel codes and industry jargon to assure you of getting exactly what you are looking for and to avoid unpleasant “surprises” during your trip.

Convenience A professional travel consultant has a world of information available, saving you hours of frustration and confusion. An experienced honeymoon planner can handle every aspect of your trip from flights to resort, transfers, activities, and tours.

Value An experienced travel consultant will save you money as well as providing you with additional perks and offers that only they can offer. Agents have access to exclusive deals not available to the public. Because of their close relationships with tour operators, resorts, and other suppliers worldwide, they can provide their clients with special prices, upgrades and much more.

Island Dreams Travel has been specializing in creating beautiful honeymoons for over 30 years.

Call or e-mail us and we will take care of all of the details to help turn your honeymoon dreams into lasting memories. www.islanddreamstvl.com bevfalley@gmail.com 785-331-3311

Personalized Service Consulting with a professional honeymoon planner assures you get the trip that you are dreaming of. Your travel consultant will work closely with you to gather information about your ideal honeymoon. Then, by getting to know you and your priorities and values, the agent is able to ensure that every detail is customized and planned just for you.

Unbiased Customer Advocacy Professional travel consultants work for their clients, not the travel supplier. Your honeymoon planner is working for you and will offer you only the options that match your needs and desires. Unlike many on-line sites, they are not trying to sell you a particular brand, resort, airline, hotel, cruise line or tour company.

The main objective is providing you, the client, with the perfect honeymoon experience. Plus, if you experience a problem while traveling, your agent works on your behalf as your personal advocate. Most travel agents are part of large industry organizations that can accomplish better results, quicker, and more efficiently than the individual traveler can alone.

So, when thinking about planning a perfect honeymoon, your first and most important step is to contact a professional honeymoon planner. Don’t leave the most important trip of your lifetime to chance.

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Wedding Wise...

Take notice that even if you have planned everything perfectly, that some unexpected mishap could come up on the wedding day. It is actually more likely than not. Entrust the professionals you have hired to help smooth the issue so that you can enjoy your day. You will look back on this time for years to come and only want there to be the happiest of memories to share with your husband.

Many brides are finding great gown bargains on the Internet.

However, when the gown arrives they are stunned to find they look nothing like the designer gown that was pictured.

The quality is poor, inferior fabric and beading was used, and the sizing is wrong. They are cheap knock-offs that usually cannot be returned. If something sounds too good to be true--it usually is! Shop at a local bridal salon where you see the gown and know that it fits well.

– Geri Watts, Wedding Expressions by Geri

– Britney Beach, The Cotillion

If you have a $1,000 camera – leave it home during your honeymoon. All you really need is a good compact camera. They are easy to use, lighter to carry, and not near so much of a loss when you leave it on the seat of a tour bus.

Start booking everything you need early, there is no shame in being prepared and booking even as far out as a year or more to guarantee that you get exactly what you want. Its important to get on our schedules early, in the limousine business we can wiggle the time around as needed closer to the big day.

– Scott Bundi & Tracy Chapman, Pech Limo

– Robert Riesmeyer, Travel Benefits By Design

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By all means, look for a one stop shop. Steer away from services that simply deliver alcohol or only supply a bartender. By doing so, your day will be much less stressful – no need for you to be worried about trivial matters such as running out of ice. A good bartending service will offer all amenities with their service - all-inclusive packages that include cups, ice, napkins, straws, and drink garnishes.

Establish a budget early on in the planning process. Having a budget in mind when researching venues is key. As a hotel sales manager, we need to know your estimated guest count and overall budget so we can properly quote you available space and pricing. If we know your budget then we can work with you on the different options available to keep you in your price range. When it comes to budgeting for your wedding; isolate what is really important to you, don’t forget to be considerate of your guests needs, shop around, and allow some wiggle room.

– Mary Rodriguez, Diamond Girls Bartending

– Ashley Ursino, Westin Crown Center

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When it comes to engagement rings and wedding bands, quality is of utmost importance. After all, these pieces of jewelry will be worn everyday for the rest of your life.

Having a relationship with a trustworthy, quality jeweler is essential — and remember, quality doesn’t necessarily equate expensive.

– Adam Gebhardt, Tivol

When doing beauty treatments for a wedding, make sure to do it no earlier than 2 weeks before the wedding. You don’t want to have a breakout or skin irritation on your big day. Make sure you go to a reputable service provider. If you haven’t had a particular service before, don’t decide to do it right before the wedding. All skin is different and every skin has a different reaction.

– Channa Clemons, Tan Perfekt

If you want to do a destination wedding, run with it and don’t look back. We got married this past July and debated on an island wedding. It was voiced to us how important it was that people wanted to attend our wedding, so we ultimately decided on a destination wedding in Colorado. It was closer to Kansas City and a short drive for an incredible vacation. In the end, over 70% of our local KC guests declined anyway so it defeated the purpose of trying to host a wedding closer to home. We still love the majestic Rockies, visit Colorado often, and don’t regret moving it closer to home from the beach. I still recommend following YOUR heart and in the end, the people who wouldn’t miss it for the world will be there no matter where you decide. After all, you get one wedding day so make it what you truly want and don’t regret it for a second.

Consider planning your wedding somewhere that can take care of everything for you. Large hotels can provide a professional to help you make your plans plus provide hotel rooms, ballrooms, and smaller private dining options all under one roof, making your wedding planning experience much less stressful.

– Harrah’s North Kansas City

– Jana Marler, Jana Marie Photography

When planning your honeymoon, always work with a professional travel agent! A honeymoon specialist can handle every detail while saving you money and time. Plus, travel consultants have access to special “deals”, upgrades and honeymoon perks not available to the public.

When you hire a videographer make sure that they are included or at least have some input when it comes to the photographers schedule for portraits, family photos, bridal party photos, etc. Make sure you give the videographer some time with you guys as well so he or she can film the two of you together without the distraction of family members, bridal party, and just about everyone else.

– Matt Hawley, Hawleywood Films

– Beverly Falley, Island Dreams Travel

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Of course your guests are excited to spend time with you and mingle with others, but do not expect them to entertain themselves in a room full of unfamiliar faces. Hired entertainment such as a DJ or a band is great at keeping energy levels up and welcoming your guests into the party.

– Danielle Hellon, The Baltimore Club

Consider a bridal ‘registry’ out of the norm. Find a piece of art that you both love and encourage your friends and family to pitch in for something truly special for your new home together. If you’re not ready for art, a framing credit can be used to make your wedding photos their own work of art!

– Brooke Morehead, Prairiebrooke Gallery

It’s never too early to purchase your wedding gown. Your wedding gown sets the tone for your entire wedding style. Keep in mind if you plan on special ordering a specific size and color, or even need to make modifications to the gown style, gowns can take 4 to 6 months to arrive, and sometimes even longer. While some designers have rush or in-stock options, it isn’t always guaranteed. Just remember, once you decide on “The One,” stop shopping! There are always new and different styles coming out, but that doesn’t mean they are better than your dress. When you have selected your gown, you are then able to move on to other aspects of your wedding, like your bridesmaids, tuxedos and accessories.

– Tonya Rickard, Mia’s Bridal & Tailoring

Help your vendors to help YOU have a successful event, i.e.- Make sure you have booked enough time at the chosen venue to allow your vendors-AND YOUR PARTY- to adequately get the room ready and set properly. Your vendors really DO want to impress you, and your guests, and to do that we need the time to do so. I know that my tables are not as elaborate as they could have been when I'm working in a short time frame.

– Wanda Brizendine, HyVee Blue Springs

Your makeup shouldn’t fade before you do on your wedding day. More and more brides are choosing airbrush makeup for this reason. Not only does airbrush makeup give you the flawless finish we all desire, it also gives you peace of mind that it will last all day. Some brands are being proven to last 18 plus hours, allowing you to enjoy your night without touch ups.

– Traci Morby, Making Beautiful Hair & Makeup Artistry 72

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As a Bride assuming you have done due diligence in choosing your photographer I’d highly recommend doing an unplugged wedding. Asking the guests to refrain from snapping photos with their phones, iPads and home cameras and allowing your photographer to do the job you are hiring them to do without interruptions! It allows everyone to actually enjoy YOUR special day!!

– Jenean Lindner, Origami Owl

The Power of

Pilates By: Lindsay Russ

All to often, brides experience a moment of panic as soon as the excitement of getting engaged wears off. As they start planning for their big day, they become all too aware that the moment they walk down the aisle, all eyes are on them. So, despite the stress of planning the biggest event of their lives, brides everywhere are in a mad dash to be in super svelte shape by the time their day arrives.

Pilates may just be the answer to your prayers. As a system where strength and flexibility meets cardio and resistance, this regime was designed to create a long, lean body. With requirements of control and concentration, this is one of the most challenging exercises around. But the best part is that while it’s getting you lean, it also goes a long way to calm and center you, reducing the stress that goes into the planning process.

A major concern for many is how they can whittle their middle. Because Pilates engages the core through and through, it will naturally result in a leaner physique all around, especially when it comes to your waistline.

The following are a few moves you can put into action immediately to help you get a head start on your healthiest self. And if you’re in need of a full on program, or even just an accountability partner, visit us at Precision Pilates. We’re located in the heart of the city at 7420 Wornall Road, and have several packages to suit your individual needs. Simply put, you deserve to be healthy, and we can help!

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Moves to Master: Teaser: This is one of the most challenging exercises in pilates as it is a quick trip to get flat abs while building strength in your deep abdominal wall. It taps into your transverse abdominis, which is your deepest and hardest abdominal muscle to engage.

Having a strong core is the glue to having good posture, strong spine and overall body awareness.

Prepare: 1. Lie on your back with your knees bent at a 45 degree angle. Arms by your sides, palms up. You are in neutral spine. Take a moment to breathe, open your chest, let your back ribs drop, and relax your shoulders.

2. Legs are parallel - make sure hips, knees, ankles and feet line up. Lift legs up into table top while pulling the naval to spine.

3. Extend both legs - the knees are at the same height as you roll up through the upper body 4. Leave your rib cage down as you bring your arms in an arc overhead and balance on top of your sitz bones extending arms and legs into a sitting “v” position

Roll up: The pilates roll up is one of the most classical exercises in pilates. It challenges the abdominals while concentrating on form.

The Pilates roll up is equal to six regular situps, and is much better than crunches for creating a flat stomach.

Prepare: 1. Lie on the floor with your legs straight. Let your belly drop down toward the floor and make sure your shoulders are relaxed and away from your ears.

Take a few deep breaths as you check your alignment and tune in to your body.

When you are ready, leave your scapula anchored in your back and your ribs down, as you bring your arms straight up over your head and back so that your fingertips are pointing to the wall behind you. This will be your beginning position.

2. Inhale: Leave your scapula down as you bring your arms up overhead. As your arms pass your ears let the chin drop and head and upper spine join the motion to curl up 3. Exhale: Continue in one smooth motion to curl your body in an “up and over” motion toward your toes. This is the “moment of truth” for many. Pull in your abs in and deepen the curve of the your spine as you exhale. That’s what gets you up (not momentum).

Finally, keeping the head tucked, the abdominals deep, and the back rounded, reach for your toes.

Ideally the legs are kept straight throughout this exercise, with energy reaching out through the heels. However, a modification would be to allow the legs to bend, especially as you come up and reach toward the toes Inhale: Bring the breath fully into your pelvis and back as you pull the lower abs in, reach your tail bone under, and begin to unfurl vertebrae by vertebrae - down to the floor.

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4. The inhale initiates this motion until you are about half way down. *Be sure to keep the legs on the floor and don’t let them fly up as you roll down. Check that your shoulders are relaxed and not creeping up.

Exhale: Continue to set one vertebrae after another down on the floor.

Keep your upper body curve as you roll down slowly, with control. The arms are still outstretched and following the natural motion of the shoulders as you roll down.

5. Once your shoulders come to the floor, the arms go with the head as you continue to roll down to the mat Do up to six repetitions. The roll up is one continuous, controlled, flowing motion. Try to synchronize with the breath. If you do this exercise with full attention, six repetitions will be sufficient.

Side Plank: Side plank exercises target the gluteal muscles, obliques, quadriceps, hamstrings, thigh abductors and adductors. Strengthening these muscles means that your lower back and spine have more support and are better protected from injury caused by back strain and/or sudden movements. Side plank exercises also improve core strength; this means increased core stability, which translates into a stronger back and minimal soreness.

Prepare:

1. Exhale and engage your abs, lifting your knees and hips away from the floor, keeping the side of your bottom foot in contact with the mat.

2. Pause at the top of the movement, inhale and gently lower yourself back to your starting position.

3. Repeat on both sides.

(Note): To make this more challenging, press up to your hand and keep your arms straight. Rotate to a front plank in between switching side planks. Hold each plank for 10 seconds for 3 repetitions.

EA Bride

-Perfect Posture -Tone Abdominals -Shapely Shoulders -Chiseled Arms/Back

-Slender Waist -Great Balance -Increased Metabolism

About the Author Lindsay Russ is the owner and operator of Precision Pilates. Also a proud new mother, she credits Pilates for helping her keep calm during the pregnancy and make the amazing transition into parenthood, and keeping herself fit enough to keep up with a new baby. For more information, please visit their website at www.precisionpilateskc.com

Special Bridal Package $225 for 3 months unlimited of barre, mat and cardio Pilates classes. That’s just $75 each per month!

Brides also receive private sessions at just $35 each (reg $55)!

Start by lying on one side on an exercise mat with both legs straight and stacked one on top of the other. Bend the elbow underneath you and use it to support your upper body by keeping it in line with your shoulder. Keep your hips, spine and neck in alignment throughout.

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Month unlimited special must be purchased in the studio or you can contact us at pilates@precision-pilateskc.com to purchase.

Real Life Insights Budget Buster: Don’t Pop the Cork Whether it is heartfelt words from your maid of honor or a hysterical story from your best man, everyone is brought together in saluting to the success of your marriage. Even small kids can be found holding up their lemonade.

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While everyone loves a good toast; not everybody loves champagne. After conducting a poll, we have found that wedding guests would rather toast with a beverage of their choice than some bubbly. Therefore, instead of budgeting for 25 bottles of champagne to serve everyone, order just a few bottles to share between the bridal party and your immediate family.

ParkBenchPaperie on Etsy

Going Green: Place Cards with Personality

Trend Alert: Weddings with Watercolors

Instead of making the boring ol’ place cards, spice it up with some originality by using eco-friendly resources to guide your guests to their table. Natural elements such as tree limbs or stones are easy to find and can be transformed to mirror your style. Another hot item to recycle is wine corks that can be cut to hold the guest’s name card.

After becoming a popular trend in the art market, water coloring is now being seen in the wedding world. On invitations you can find endless options of colors and shading styles from bold blues to feminine flowers. Talk to your invitation designer or search online to find a color palate that matches your theme.

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AlexandriaLindo on Etsy

Seasoned Insights Greg and I celebrated our 35th wedding anniversary on October 6. Honestly it doesn’t feel like we have been married 35 years because we should be really old people . . . right? The years have gone by quickly because we enjoy being with each other. Now believe me, we have had our fights but being able to say you are sorry is important.

When my nephew was 13, he was traveling with us on vacation. He said, “You two argue all the time!” I told him, “ It just keeps the sparks going!” Now he is married and seems to understand that more!

- Greg & Barbara Buckallew, married 35 years.

Our advice to anyone getting married is to be committed to each other, do things together, have fun and laugh with each other and at each other!!

When we got married, we didn’t see marriage as a temporary arrangement, but a lifelong commitment. Sometimes it means doing things that you might not want to do but if it makes your spouse happy, then it’s worth it! I’m glad that we chose each other and proud of our relationship and family.

Hopefully our sons have a good foundation for their own marriages based upon what they experienced with their parents. Good luck to all making commitments to each other.

?

Ask

the expert

By Ron Ruth

Ron Ruth is a wedding DJ plus a certified, Wedding Entertainment Director® and owner of Ron Ruth Wedding Entertainment in Blue Springs, MO. Ron’s very personal, creative and detailed approach to entertainment design allows his newlyweds and their family and friends to enjoy unforgettably fun, signature wedding celebrations. Ron believes that every wedding dream is possible with just a little imagination.

Ron Ruth Wedding Entertainment 816.224.4487 Ron@KC-Wedding-DJ.com http://KC-Wedding-DJ.com

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Q: A friend told me we should do our first dance and the dances with our parents right after we arrive at the reception. Is that a good idea and the best way to get them out of the way?

A: I’ll focus the first part of my answer on the words “get them out of the way.”

That wording gives the impression that including those dances in your wedding reception is only done out of necessity. The reality is that, there are no rules that say you need to incorporate any of those formalities in your wedding reception at all. Unlike a few years ago when couples and even wedding professionals felt obligated to follow some strict format and include the same formalities as every other couple, today’s weddings are far more reflective of a bride and groom’s individual personality and style. Having said that, a first dance as husband and wife and a bride’s dance with her father or a groom’s dance with his mother can be and should be extremely memorable. But to make that happen, they must be performed in a matter that engages the guests in those emotional moments.

Whether you perform those formalities right after you’ve been introduced or later in your wedding reception, your guests will not focus long, if at all, if you’re not fully vested in those special moments and are seen as simply going through the motions. Why include them if no one is paying attention or if they don’t fit your personality and sytle?

To address the question; “Is that a good idea?” In my opinion, there isn’t a right or wrong answer. In certain parts of the country it is not uncommon for the bride and groom to perform their first dance right after they’ve arrived.

Traditionally in the Midwest, however, (again there are no rules that demand adherence to tradition) the formal dances occur after dinner and are the prequel to the party or dancing portion of the celebration. Personally, I suggest the latter because the introductions are usually performed with high-energy fun and, unless all of your formal dances reflect that same level of energy, allowing the initial excitement to linger through dinner gives added momentum to the evening. As you envision how your wedding reception will look, consider the ebb and flow and trust your instincts.

Q: Both of our fathers would like to deliver a toast at our wedding reception. When would be the best time for them to do that?

A: Who doesn’t enjoy hearing a father deliver a toast on his son or daughter’s wedding day?

They are usually a memorable combination of funny anecdotes and heartfelt sentiments.

Those toasts can also provide an excellent opening to the evening’s festivities and would fit well immediately following the introductions. Since the bride’s parents are usually the hosts of most wedding receptions, the father of the bride would hold the same status as a movie’s executive producer which means he gets top billing. So, the polite order would be to invite the father of the groom to toast first, giving the father of the bride the opportunity to deliver the final words. As an important planning note, pre-arrange for the wedding party and the newlyweds to have drinks readily available so they can participate in the toasts, as well.

Q: So many of our friends are already married. Are there alternatives to the bouquet and garter toss that are more inclusive?

A: Absolutely! Because so many couples are now getting married later in life, it’s not uncommon for there to be fewer and fewer single guests at wedding receptions. That doesn’t mean, though, that the bouquet and garter tosses have gone by the wayside. Many couples still want the photo op. There are a number of fun and all inclusive alternatives to the traditional tosses. Here are two that couples have said are their favorites.

Don’t worry about whether the guest who catches either the bouquet or garter is single or married. At a peak moment during the dancing portion of the wedding reception, when the majority of your guests are on the dance floor, have your DJ divide them, placing all of the ladies on one side and gentlemen on the other. Done quickly and with high-energy music still playing in the background, this break should not affect the momentum.

Once everyone has been divided, the DJ can then announce that the bouquet and garter are up for grabs as a special memento to whoever catches them, whether they’re married or not. Surprising everyone with an unexpected twist to tradition will add an extra element of excitement and entertainment that your guests will include to the long list of unforgettable moments of your wedding reception. Plus, you’ll cherish the incredible and candidly fun group photos of you with your family and friends.

Another favorite and inclusive alternative is for the newlyweds to personally present the bouquet to the couple in attendance who has been married the longest at the completion of an anniversary dance. In some cases, that will be the grandparents of the bride or groom, but it could be any husband and wife in attendance. The beauty of presenting the bouquet to the longest married couple is that it also offers an opportunity to add a wonderfully memorable personal touch. Have your DJ ask them if they have any sage words of advice for a long and happy marriage that they can offer to the newlyweds. Those responses are usually priceless and the presentation is another extraordinary photo opportunity.

The garter can be presented to the engaged couple who will be married next or to another pair of newlyweds who have been married the least amount of time.

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Society Pages ÂŤ

Real stories of married Kansas City couples written in their own words.

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Tyler & Kristina Kennedy Wedding Date: June 7th, 2014 Photography By: DiMartino Photography

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Our love story began after meeting at a social engagement in graduate school. After a long friendship of getting to know each other it blossomed into more. Subsequently dating for a few years and supporting each other through the rigors of school, we made it to graduation and started thinking about our future lives together. The "real world" brought on new challenges to our relationship, like working in separate communities, but we grew together stronger than ever and realized marriage was on the near horizon. After a special, yet nerveracking engagement, we began the exciting and daunting task of wedding planning.

Lucky for us, with the help of our families, an amazing wedding planner, and a great team of vendors our dream wedding was realized.

Although the day flew by, our wedding day is one we will always remember and cherish.

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Club 1000 Wedding Planner: Plush Productions, Britney Beach-Jones Ceremony Musicians: Crescendo Trio Florist: Village Gardens Catering & Rentals: Brancatos DJ: Elite Sounds Entertainment Group- Todd Cake: Adorn Cakes Hair & Makeup: Esoza Officiant: Timmy Gibson

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Gallagher & Emily Ring Wedding Date: December 28th, 2013 Photography By: L. Frisch Photography

Gallagher and I are highschool sweethearts.

We were each other's first loves. We met on a blind date to Rockhurst High School's homecoming our sophomore year in high school, then continued to be good friends until we started dating our senior year. I went to Notre Dame de Sion highschool and he went to Rockhurst.

We parted ways for college – he went to K.U. and I went to Creighton University – however our feelings for one another never faded despite the distance. We both made countless trips up and down I-29 between Lawrence, KS and Omaha, NE – always looking forward to the next chance to see one another.

We spent first semester of our junior year in college together studying abroad in Sydney, Australia. We traveled constantly, getting to experience the Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania and New Zealand together, among countless other adventures.

After 5 years of long-distance dating we finally were living in the same city. Both living in separate places on the Plaza, we continued our newfound adult lives together.

With Gallagher, the adventures never end.

We are constantly trying new things together – whether it be scuba diving, hiking in the mountains, or just long bike rides.

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Gallagher proposed when we were out on a long bike ride in Lawrence, KS. He had brought a picnic lunch to enjoy on the dock by a little lake we biked to, then before we got up to ride back he stopped me, got down on one knee, and told me he wanted to spend the rest of his life with me. I couldn't have been happier to finally call him my husband.

We are now enjoying married life in beautiful Colorado where the adventures just keep coming. We are each other's best friends and life partners. He is and always will be the love of my life.

Ceremony Venue: Our Lady of Sorrows Reception Venue: Grand Street Cafe Wedding Planner: Lauren Golden Gown: Ida's Bridal Menswear: Men's Warehouse Invitations: Statements Hair & Makeup: Jolie Artistry Caterer: Grand Street Cafe Florist: Bella Chic Floral DJ/Band: Michael Beers Band Cake/Cupcake Decorator: Californos Bar Service: Grand Street Cafe Videographer: Mary Galvin Favors/Gifts: Topsy's Popcorn Travel Agent: Acendas Vacation Travel

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Stacy & Dan Howell Wedding Date: May 17th, 2014 Photography By: Sarah Jean Photography

Dan and I met on the night of December 21, 2012. I had been shopping with a girlfriend for the day and we decided to stop for a drink on the way home. Dan had gone out for the evening with a friend after work. We all ended up at Skylight. My friend started talking to Dan and his friend and we ended up sitting by them for the evening. When people ask us how we met, we describe it as we were wingmen for each of our friends who were interested in each other. Because our friends were interested in each other we began talking.

We talked back and forth over the holidays and began dating seriously after the New Year. In our first year of dating Dan had tore his calf and had sinus surgery. I myself had my own turn of bad luck and ended up having two semi-serious surgeries. We figured if we made it through those things then we could make it through anything.

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Dan proposed on November 16th. He had bought the ring the day before after asking my son, Mason, for his permission. After multiple attempts, Dan proposed Saturday night after were to we returned home from dinner. We began planning the wedding immediately.

A friend had referred us to Loch Lloyd and once we saw it in person, we knew it was perfect.

From there, we found all of our wedding professionals through personal referrals. All the people that we worked with for the wedding made everything so smooth and perfect!

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Ceremony & Reception Venue: Loch Lloyd Country Club Gown: David’s Bridal Menswear: Men’s Warehouse Hair: Studio 500- Sam Larsen Makeup: Studio 500- Stephanie Campbell Florist: Sidelines Custom Floral Cake: Rama Sola

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Cody & Erin Jones Wedding Date: May 3rd, 2014 Photography By: epagaFOTO

It’s hard to imagine a more easy-going couple than Erin and Cody. For them, life is for making the most out of every day. They’re free-spirited adventurers who are constantly surrounded by friends and are always the life of the party. When it came to their wedding day, it was ‘so Erin and Cody.’ There was no stress, no anxiety, and no problems: just a lot of joy and love.

Erin and Cody grew up in the same town of Piper, KS. In high school, they hit it off and so began their romance. After a couple years of dating, Cody graduated and started working for the family business, Jerry’s Nursery. Erin went to the University of Kansas to pursue a career in nursing. The distance caused a brief hiatus of their relationship, but everyone knew the two were destined to reunite when Erin moved back home after graduating. Once again happily together the two began making their home in Piper.

Cody popped the question to Erin in their home on her birthday.

She was completely surprised by his timing and moved by the sweetness and simplicity of it all.

Erin knew right away that she wanted to marry Cody on her grandparent’s farm next door to her childhood home. She also knew that she wanted their wedding to be one heck of a party.

The theme was casual and relaxed and full of special touches. The ceremony took place on the front porch as guests looked on from the lawn. Erin’s Granddad, with whom she had a very special bond (especially about KU Basketball), was not there in body but certainly was in spirit. Erin carried his military tags with her bouquet, and after the ceremony the family revealed a banner with an enthusiastic ‘Yes! Love, Granddad.’ The bride and groom drove away from the ceremony through the fields in Cody’s Jeep as guests walked a tree-lined path to the reception. Once the heartfelt toasts were made there wasn’t a dry eye in the room as the Father of the Bride took to the floor to sing for his daughter.

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The bridal party was asked to find their own dresses and suits for the big day as long as the ladies were mostly neutral and the gents were in grey pants. The Mother of the Bride was not for lack of creativity doing all of the wedding and reception décor herself: banners, bar signs, centerpieces, table runners and home baked cookies for each guest’s place setting. Everyone enjoyed the ‘home-made’ atmosphere while they mingled under the tented reception sipping beer and wine brewed for the occasion by the newlyweds. Friends and family danced the night away thanks to Erin’s request for favorite songs on the invitation response cards.

As it should be, the wedding was a perfect reflection of Erin and Cody as a couple. They certainly delivered their promise of one great party! It was an honor to spend the day in celebration of their love and to wish them the very best as they embarked on their greatest adventure yet.

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Ceremony & Reception Venue: Private residence Wedding Planner: Weddings by Hannah Gown: Ida’s Bridal- Maggie Sottero Menswear: JC Penny Invitations: Bridget Ashcraft Hair & Makeup: A Shear Thing Salon Caterer: Broncato’s Florist: Emmy Ray Floral DJ/Band: Absolute DJ Entertainment-Stacy Smith Cake/Cupcake Decorator: Whole Foods Rental Provider: All Seasons Event Rental

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