AN EA ENGAGEMENT STORY » a game day proposal while tailgating at Arrowhead Stadium
Kansas City
Spring/Summer 18
&
ADVICE, TRICKS, TIDBITS FROM THE
EXPERTS
Trend Alert: Goodbye, Rustic. Hello, Woodsy.
HOW TO
complete a look using dramatic accessories
10 TIPS
TO PREPARE YOU FOR SAMPLE SALE SHOPPING
EA Bride Spring/Summer 2018 $4.80 Shelve until 8/14/2018
THE
KANSAS CITYSCENE
real weddings local inspiration talented professionals and upcoming events!
WWW.TTTUX.COM
HAWTHORNE PLAZA 5063 W 119TH STREET OVERLAND PARK, KS TEL • 913.451.3700
ZONA ROSA 8673 NW PRAIRIE VIEW RD KANSAS CITY, MO TEL • 816.505.3800
SUMMIT FAIR 880 NW BLUE PKWY LEE’S SUMMIT, MO TEL • 816.246.1535
ST JOESPH 3705 FREDERICK AVE ST JOSEPH, MO TEL • 816.671.9447
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.
Blue Springs
Independence
Independence
Lee’s Summit
Lee’s Summit
Raytown
625 W. 40 Hwy 816-224-4288 Catering: Wanda Brizendine
1525 E. 23rd St. 816-836-1177 Catering: Victoria Forbes
4545 S. Noland Rd. 816-478-6557 Catering: Brad Cottington
301 NE Rice Rd. 816-524-5760 Catering: Ryan Bryant
310 SW Ward Rd. 816-554-2200 Catering: Mike Moore
9400 E. 350 Hwy 816-358-9940 Catering: Sam Horkman
CONTENTS
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
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HAPPILY ENGAGED engagement announcements
10 JOYFULLY MARRIED wedding announcements 12 REAL LIFE INSIGHTS trend alert, budget buster & more 14 CITY SCENE what's new around kansas city 16 AN EA ENGAGEMENT STORY from arrowhead stadium 18 COMPLETING A LOOK with dramatic accessories
20 CALENDAR OF EVENTS upcoming bridal shows & events 23 CHASING THE TROPICS tropical wedding inspiration 30 TEN TIPS TO PREPARE YOU for sample sale shopping 32 ASK THE EXPERT your planning questions answered 34 LOCAL LUXURIES local finds for your wedding
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36 COLOR ME TRENDY the popular color palettes of 2018 39 LAKESIDE SWEETHEARTS quaint lakeside wedding inspiration
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62 44 WORDS OF THE WEDDING WISE words of advice from local experts 48 #WEDDINGFAIL oh, what a disaster 50 BEYOND THE WEDDING strive for some spontaneity 53 AN ENCHANTED GARDEN garden themed wedding inspiration 60 CHOOSING YOUR DESTINATION finding the perfect spot for two 62 CHANNELING YOUR BRIDAL BEAUTY in an intimate boudoir shoot 67 THE SOCIETY PAGES kansas city's premier weddings
67 YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS: The 2018 Kansas City Wedding Dress Showcase Get the girls together on February 25th and join us at Grand Hall to experience the ultimate wedding dress shopping event of the season! Sip champagne and enjoy the fun of seeing all of Kansas City’s finest wedding gowns in one place. Get your tickets at eabride.com.
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Meet the Staff Visit eabride.com to
STAY INSPIRED between issues!
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Keep up to date with the latest wedding shows happening around the city by visiting eabride.com/ kansas-city-bridal-eventcalendar.
BE FEATURED IN EA BRIDE
Submit your engagement photo or wedding photo to britney@eabride.com. Then stay tuned for the next issue to find you and your hubby in our pages.
LET'S CHAT!
Feel free to reach out to us at any time at info@eabride.com. 4
Cover Shot
Britney Jones Owner & Publisher britney@eabride.com
Amanda Hodges Account Executive amanda@eabride.com
Photographer: Brianne Elizabeth Photography Venue: Tobacco Barn Farm Design & Coordination: Chappelow Events Gown: Emily Hart Bridal Hair & Makeup: Traci Morby Styling Menswear: Tip Top Tux Flowers: Bergamot & Ivy Bride Model: Lindsey Spencer Groom Model: Brandon Spencer
A SPECIAL THANK YOU
TO OUR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS Ashley Backs (Hello Lovely), Brianne Jackson (Brianne Elizabeth Photography), Christie Nordmeyer (The Freestyle Experiment), Elizabeth Ladean (Elizabeth Ladean Photography), Haley Davis (Destinations HD), Imene McCoy (Savvy Bridal), Michelle Layman & Jonnelle Belger-Gentry (Events by Elle).
Midwest Bridal Network, LLC DBA , EA Bride britney@eabride.com www.eabride.com P: 816.726.2877 Published in February and August Advertising Inquiries: amanda@eabride.com Copyright 2018 for EA Bride. All rights reserved. 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.
LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER: My husband and I have always been fond of traveling. I mean, what’s not to enjoy; the anticipation leading up to “go-day”, the realization that the world is beautiful in so many infinite ways, and experiencing the excitement of different cultures, which in all honesty, makes our life at home seem somewhat bland. For a few days, we get the chance to forget it all, the appointments, the household chores and the exasperating list of to-dos. We are open to exploring the land, sampling local cuisine, and are eager to gain the perspective of locals, as if our jam-packed “window shopping” vacation was in any way similar to their everyday life. But ultimately, the moment comes; whether it’s after eating something that could tear through even the strongest of stomachs, getting stung by poisonous coral, or simply craving the familiar taste of an American cheeseburger. At some point, the excitement that we had for our vacation unexpectedly turns into something else, a longing for home.
Photo by Brianne Elizabeth Photography
Britney Jones Owner & Publisher
EA Bride has been longing to come home for some time now. After spending two years on “vacation” in Georgia, the time had come to pack its bags and to make its way back to Kansas City. As some would say, “Go big or go home.” So, EA took the trip to go big, but found it to never be quite like home. You see, EA was born and raised in Kansas City, and the culture of the town that it was raised in is engrained in its bones. While the trip was fun and insightful, it was time to get back to its KC roots. I pen this letter to you no longer as the editor, but as the owner of EA Bride. And while I can’t recall my 7-year-old self saying that I wanted to be a magazine owner when I grew up; the decision seemed to come quite naturally. Not only did it allow me to continue the work I love, but it gave me the opportunity to give EA Bride back to the city that had shaped it. With the steadfast commitment of my EA counterpart, Amanda, the encouragement from my adventure companion, my husband, and the cheerful remarks from friends, family, and wedding businesses alike, it was a no brainer. I wholeheartedly believe that it has always been the love stories of couples within this great city, and the dedicated small businesses that have assisted in their weddings, that has functioned as the pulse of EA. It’s now my duty to give back everything I can; from informative articles, to inspiring (yet practical) inspiration, and a warm introduction to the businesses in town that can bring a still dream to a memorable reality. To this, Kansas City, I promise you. EA Bride could not be happier to be home. EABride.com
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H A P P I L Y
ENGAGED
Photo: Photos by Neyan
Drew & Cori
September 29, 2018 Photo: Kat Wooten Studios
Calvin & Kendra September 2, 2018
Photo: Marissa Cribbs Photography
Ryan & Morgan September 8, 2018
Photo: Rivas Photography
Photo: Brianne Elizabeth Photography
Photo: Sara Rieth Photography
Carl & Marah
Kay & Erin
Jack & Taylor
October 20, 2018
April 22, 2018
September 29, 2018
Congratulations to all of Kansas City's newly engaged couples! 8
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J O Y F U L L Y
MARRIED Photo: Photos by Neyan
Joey & Kaitlin
November 11, 2017
Photo: Rivas Photography
Aaron & Stephanie October 14, 2017
Photo: Freeland Photography
Seth & Taylor January 20, 2018
Photo: Kat Wooten Studios
Photo: Sara Rieth Photography
Garrett & Amanda
Joe & Kelly
November 11, 2017
November 25, 2017
Photo: Brianne Elizabeth Photography
Cameron & Emily September 29, 2017
Congratulations to all of Kansas City's glowing newlyweds! 10 24
beYOUtiful!
Expert Planning | Personalized Design | Flawless Execution
Megan Julian Founder & Lead Planner
There’s only one you - let your personality shine on your wedding day! Partner with Julian Events, a full-service event planning organization, to create a wedding as unique as your love. Julian Events|www.julian-events.com
Real Life
I N S I G H T S
Trend Alert:
Goodbye, Rustic. Hello, Woodsy. With an abundance of barns and rural countryside around the Kansas City area, it came as no surprise that the rustic theme of burlap, lace, and mason jars would become popular. But now, after years of seeing countless baby’s breath bouquets and bridal parties in matching cowboy boots, it’s officially time to let the rustic theme go.
Photo: Mia's Bridal
Photo: Photos Edge
Photo: epagaFOTO
The rustic theme’s trendy replacement is the woodsy theme. This new look incorporates natural elements, like the rustic theme had done, just does so in a more tasteful way. The theme’s foundation is found in wooden design elements, such as bark or wood grain, with an accompaniment of natural greens, such as moss or ferns, to soften for a romantic look. All pulled together with a touch of flickering candlelight and the theme resembles a modern-day enchanted forest.
Budget Buster:
Scrapping the Boutonniere Ordering a boutonniere for the men in your bridal party and important family members can quickly add up. Traditionally, the following men wear a boutonniere at a wedding: groom, groomsmen, fathers, grandfathers, ring bearers, ushers, readers, and the officiant. Using a conservative quote of $20 each, this easily adds $300-$500 to your floral budget. In lieu of boutonnieres, have the men wear matching pins or pocket squares (an accent piece that is commonly included with a tux or suit rental). If you don’t want to eliminate a floral boutonniere altogether, then limit your order to the two most important men at the wedding, your groom and your father. 12
In Case You Missed It: Serving Up Fluff
There is no easier way to serve up your adult beverage and childhood craving at the same time other than dolloping some cotton candy on top of your bubbly! By enlisting Cottontale, Kansas City’s own all-natural cotton candy provider, you can share your love for the delectable dessert in a various selection of flavors including maple bacon, pink lemonade, cookie dough, and pumpkin spice. Need more than just a small taste? Cottontale also specializes in customized guest favors and an interactive on-site spin service. Who says you can’t have your cake and cotton candy too?!
Going Green:
Biodegradable Confetti Confetti quickly became a wedding staple when Hollywood glorified the image of a bride and groom exiting their ceremony as guests covered them in a blanket of hand-thrown jubilation. Everyone wanted to be that “happilyever-after” couple. But what the movie never portrayed was the horrible mess that was left behind after the newlyweds sped off in their car for the honeymoon. The confetti paper littered the sidewalks, plants, and streets. Thus, igniting a revolution to create a biodegradable solution. Now available from companies such as Ecofetti, you can find earth-friendly, water soluble and non-toxic confetti perfect for your wedding day celebration. No longer harmful to the environment, this confetti comes in a wide range of colors and can be dissolved naturally by rain water.
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CITY SCENE New Venue Alert
The newest venue to hit the wedding scene comes complete with an industrial atmosphere and a location rich in presidential history. Found on the square in Independence, where President Truman commonly took his afternoon strolls, this 5000 square foot building features a flood of natural light and 16-foot ceilings. Custom stairwells, concrete floors, and a marble bar create the perfect backdrop for a modern yet customizable wedding. To see all of the beauty of this space in person, be sure to attend their grand opening on April 7th from 1-3pm. See the Calendar of Events on page 20 for more information.
WHAT'S NEW AROUND KANSAS CITY
Ultrapom Event Rental Expands Its Rental Collection Boutique rental company Ultrapom Event Rentals has acquired some new rental items for weddings. For a fresh look at the ceremony, they offer a copper pipe arch, a three piece while panel backdrop or a modern square frame. For a splash of style at the reception, find the perfect shade of velvet linen (like this emerald one), add their geometric or marble chargers to place settings, or liven up cocktail hour with their fun wood-top boxwood bar.
Beyond the Bouquet Family-owned floral company, The Cottage Rose has expanded their floral services beyond wedding-day arrangements. From working with clients over the years and getting to know their needs, they have found that there are commonly additional events that their couples need flowers for, whether it be the bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, boudoir shoot, or even Valentine’s Day. Cottage Rose has become floral experts in creating different looks and color schemes for various events throughout an engagement, while continuing to represent the essence of their client’s personalities.
The Coffee Date Christine Darden, owner of Celebrations of Love, has created an in-person wedding planning educational series called “The Coffee Date”. First comes the snacks and coffee, but after the initial refreshments comes the real treat – Christine shares her best strategies in wedding planning to help couples jump-start their own efforts. She shares a list of important to-do’s that should be handled first, proides some timeline guidelines, and then opens the floor for question and answer time so that each couple can ask questions pertaining to their unique situation. Find Celebrations of Love online or on social media to reserve your spot at the next Coffee Date! 14
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AN EA ENGAGEMENT AT
arrowhead
Before the flowing white dress, beautifully arranged flowers, and everlasting day of excitement arrives, there is a moment that starts it all, the proposal. So, when Trevor, a man ready to proclaim his love, reached out to us for help in planning the perfect proposal to his girlfriend, Jessica, we couldn’t pass it up. While getting to know more about the couple, we learned that both Jessica and Trevor loved football and had made a Sunday tradition of always attending or watching a Chief’s game. That brought us to the conclusion that there was no better place to plan the proposal other than Arrowhead Stadium itself. Trevor agreed, and the location to pop the question was set. Now came the time to plan out all the details, which seemed to come naturally to Trevor, “The thing I knew for certain was that I wanted to catch Jessica completely off guard. Thankfully my birthday aligned up with the home opener which made for a perfect distraction and excuse to get all our friends there without her catching on.” Trevor felt that it would be best to propose while tailgating so that all of their friends and family could be in attendance without having to buy a ticket to the game. Now that we had a location and a secret strategy for inviting guests, it was time to plan out the play-by-play (pun intended) to how the proposal was going to unfold. Here’s what we came up with…
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The EA Bride team was to go undercover as media reporters in pursuit to interview the most enthusiastic tailgaters. Upon arriving to Trevor’s group, we were to ask them general game-day questions (“What do you expect the final score to be? Who is your favorite player?”) and to which, Trevor would make it a point to be front and center with Jessica to answer the questions. To thank them for their participation, we would reach into our handy bag and pull out a jersey, but this wouldn’t be just any jersey, it would have Trevor’s last name on it and we would intentionally hand it to Jessica. At that point, Jessica would notice the name on the back of the jersey, creating an aha moment and Trevor would get down on one knee to propose (all the while we would be filming)! There were a few weeks between finalizing the plan and actual game day. While we awaited in excitement, Trevor was experiencing typical pre-proposal anticipation, “Nervousness doesn’t even begin to describe it. Not nervous about the decision but the execution of it. I wanted to make this a day she’d never forget and wanted it to be perfect for her.”
Game day arrived and it ended up being a dreary one. The early-fall day was covered in a blanket of misting clouds typically only seen during winter months. But that wasn’t going to stop us; the EA Bride team made their way around the parking lot, eventually locating Trevor and his tailgating crew. As we began to ask our questions, we knew Jessica had no idea what was happening, “When the camera crew came, I thought I was trying to win the Hy-Vee giftcard that they sometimes give away for the best tailgates. I started answering their questions, they handed me a “freebie” (which was a jersey), and then I was in complete shock when I saw Trevor get down on one knee. It wasn't until I heard him say, ‘Will you be my forever?’, that I realized he was proposing. Right after I said "Yes!" I asked him if I parents knew this was happening. And just as I said it, I turned around to see that my parents and siblings were there to catch the whole moment. It was the coolest and most "us” proposal ever! I will never forget it.” After Jessica’s “Yes!” came a loud cheer from their friends and family; they popped champagne to celebrate and showed off their pre-designed posters for the game. And while the Chiefs went on to beat the Eagles 27-20, Trevor was the ultimate winner of the day!
Look under the video tab on EA Bride's Facebook page to watch a recap video of Trevor & Jessica's proposal (don't forget to grab a few tissues). A special thank you to Mickey Beach of Elite Sounds for photographing, filming and editing Trevor and Jessica's proposal into lasting mementos they can cherish forever!
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COMPLETING A LOOK WITH
dramatic accessories
By: Ashley Backs, Hello Lovely
A spring trend that should be on the radar of all brides-to-be is super-extra accessories; whether it’s huge shoulder-dusting earrings, a dramatic headpiece, or a dazzling chunky necklace. These ultra-glam accessories can work for any style of bride, but there are certain hair and makeup rules you should follow to ensure that the accessory doesn’t steal the show. As long as you follow these rules and walk down that aisle with confidence, you’ll look better than you ever have before.
1. Go Above and Beyond with Your Makeup
3. Wear Your Hair Up
If there’s ever a time to bring in professionals, it’s on your wedding day. You want to look flawless walking down the aisle and in photos you’ll have for life, and it’s hard to pull off a perfected look without professional skills! Additionally, if you choose to wear a super-dramatic accessory, you'll really need professional help to finish a face that looks finished, polished, and radiant. A makeup artist will choose the right primer, highlighter, blush, and concealer to make sure that your bridal glow is amplified and perfected. She can also ensure that your makeup will last throughout ceremony tears, cake-smashing, and dancing-with-bridesmaids sweat - which is extra important if you’re wearing mega jewelry!
When you choose a large accessory, it should be the focal point of your bridal look. Wearing your hair down in loose waves will only compete with the bold choker that you picked out. When you’re browsing inspiration, look for sleek, elegant hairstyles. You want a classic up-do that shows off your face and neck - all the better for highlighting those dangling earrings! A low chignon is an eternal classic, as is a French twist. You don’t have to look like a ballerina with one of these simple hairstyles; your hair stylist can add texture and volume while still maintaining the sleek look you need to pull off your dramatic accessory.
2. Choose Soft Colors While there’s definitely a time and place for a vampy wine lip and a feathered and jeweled headpiece, your wedding may not be that place. If you’re bringing the drama with accessories, keep the rest of your look muted. Wedding days are about looking like the glam version of yourself, not a glamorous stranger that your fiancé has never seen before. Sticking with softer lips, eyes and cheeks allows the accessory to take center stage. That being said, I’m not endorsing that you use a minimalist approach when applying these soft colors. The right hair and makeup artist can give you smoky bridal eyes that still look subtle enough to not compete with your mega-accessory.
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4. Lashes, Lashes, Lashes! While going simple with your makeup is a good idea, you should still bring the drama in one area, your eyelashes! Over-the-top lashes will emphasize your eyes, complete your face, and will look awesome in photos. You can accomplish this by applying false lashes the day-of or through a more semipermanent look (which would last through the honeymoon and beyond). Getting your lashes tinted and lifted will add color to light lashes and create an enhancing curl that will open your eyes up.
You can expect a lift and tint to last through a full eyelash cycle (about 8-12 weeks), which is perfect for newlywed life! Another semi-permanent option is eyelash extensions, which entails getting individual false lashes that last for 6-12 weeks. You can choose the length and volume of the extensions depending on the look you’re going for. As a general rule, length extensions look more natural and volume extensions are more glamorous.
5. Brows are a Must Brows are the perfect finishing touch for a polished face. They frame your eyes and make your whole face look complete. We’re not talking about insta-fake brows; crisp, clean, manicured brows make a noticeable difference in an overall look. Your makeup artist can fill them in with a light hand, making sure that your brows are perfect sisters (but not twins). This is especially important if you’re planning to wear a dramatic veil; defined brows help give definition to your face, which means that you’ll be center-stage, not the accessory.
6. Bring Your Accessories to the Trial This final tip is the most important. Before you schedule your hair and makeup trial, make sure that you have all of your bridal accessories chosen and purchased. If you show up to your trial and say that you plan to wear a dramatic veil, but don’t have that veil in-hand, there’s only so much that your artist can do to make sure that the accessory coordinates perfectly with your wedding-day look. Bringing all bridal accessories (such as veil, earrings, necklace, etc.) to your trial is essential to being the picture-perfect bride! Your hair and makeup artist can assess the look of the accessory against your other wedding details to help you pick the perfect hair and lipstick color.
If you choose a super-extra accessory for your wedding day, I’d love to see you rock it! Tag us in your Instagrams @hellolovelykc.
HELLO LOVELY O N L O C A T I O N H A I R & M A K E U P
816-200-2406 HelloLovelyKC.com
M A R K Y O U R
CALENDAR
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018 KC Wedding Dress Showcase Location: The Grand Hall: 1330 Baltimore Avenue, Kansas City, Mo Time: 9:00am-4:00pm Admission: $15-$30 Tickets: eabride.com The Kansas City Wedding Dress Showcase is the highest anticipated wedding gown shopping event of the 2018 engagement season. Produced by EA Bride, and featuring the most prestigious bridal shops in the city, the event showcases the latest in bridal fashion for engaged brides all under one roof.
Thursday, February 22, 2018 Destination Wedding Night Location: Overland Park Ballroom & Social Club Time: 5:30-7:30pm Admission: Free Website: destinationshd.com Thinking of a Destination Wedding, but don’t know where to start? You are not alone… Join me as I review everything you should know and understand as you begin the planning process. I will mostly focus on the all-inclusive resort destination wedding, as that is my specialty, but will also discuss the differences of a destination wedding within the US to give you an idea on how those are planned as well. 20
February 23-25, 2018 Casablanca Trunk Show Location: Emily Hart Bridal Time: All Weekend Website: emilyhartbridal.com Additional Shows: March 2-4th & 9-25th Casablanca Bridal is committed to designing and manufacturing bridal gowns that reflect superb quality, original design, and attention to detail. Each gown is unique from the hand beaded designs and exquisite laces, to the fit and customization for every bride’s specific needs. Come view the variety of Casablanca gowns at Emily Hart bridal on any of the dates listed above. Be sure to schedule a fitting for a one-on-one experience.
Saturday, February 24, 2018 Restoration Emporium Bridal Event
Saturday, April 7, 2018 The Delaware Event Space Grand Opening
Location: 125 S. Main St., Independence, Mo 64050 Time: 1:00-3:00pm Admission: Free If you're planning a wedding or looking for bridal shower or engagement party gifts, you'll want to stop by Restoration Emporium on the Plaza Saturday, February 24th from 10am-4pm for a free bridal event! We'll have mimosas, giveaways and different vendors from the Kansas City area for you to sample for your special day.
Website: thedelawarekc.com Join us for the Grand Opening of The Delaware Event Space on Saturday, April 7, 2018! Come enjoy beverages, sweets and entertainment; meet local wedding vendors and tour our newly renovated building with historical bones. This brand new venue on the square, is now accepting wedding bookings.
design your
WEDDING TO REMEMBER
If you’re lucky in love, come to Harrah’s North Kansas City where we specialize in fun, excitement and elegance all wrapped up into one. Our wedding services professionals will tailor your nuptials to you, making this the wedding of your dreams. Contact us at 816-889-4227 or MEET@caesars.com to start planning your romantic walk down the aisle.
Chasing the T ropics
PHOTOGRAPHY Brianne Elizabeth Photography FLORAL Bergamot & Ivy
DESIGN & COORDINATION Chappelow Events
GRAPHIC DESIGN & PAPER GOODS BP Creative Group
RENTALS Ultrapom Event Rentals
COTTON CANDY Cottontale
VENUE Tobacco Barn Farm
GOWN Emily Hart Bridal
CAKE Cardinal Cake Company MODEL, BRIDE Lindsey Spencer
MENSWEAR Tip Top Tux
HAIR & MAKEUP Traci Morby Styling
MODEL, GROOM Brandon Spencer
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TEN TIPS FOR
SHOPPING SAMPLE SALES By: Imene McCoy, Savvy Bridal Wedding dress shopping can be a bit of a minefield, let alone wedding dress shopping at a sample sale. If you’re in the market for a wedding gown and you’d like to attend a sample sale, then you need to do your homework beforehand. Showing up unprepared will most likely result in you walking out empty handed. Lots of bridal salons hold sample sales throughout the year. It's a great way for them to discount and move inventory to make room for new gowns, and it's a great way for a bride to find that amazing designer gown for less. To get you prepared, we've compiled our top 10 tips for sample sale shopping.
1. The Early Bride Gets the Dress
5. Three is a Crowd…
There are a limited number of dresses at a sample sale, so you’ll want to jump in the mix as soon as possible for the best chance at finding a gown in your size that also suits your taste. Find out when the doors open and when people start lining up beforehand, and arrive accordingly to have first pick.
Although it’s tempting to bring friends and families along to try on dresses, keep in mind this isn’t your typical shopping experience. Shopping with a big group will only slow you down as you navigate the crowd and leave you with conflicting opinions. Instead, bring along one or two friends whose judgement you trust.
2. The Price is Right Since stores are looking to move merchandise during a sample sale, you can expect major cost savings—but you will be expected to pay for the dress in full. Make sure you know what you’re willing to spend and have the amount ready.
3. Say “Yes!” to the Sample The dresses available will be gowns that brides have been trying on at the store, so they might not be quite as pristine as brand new. Don’t let that scare you off. Small issues can be addressed by alterations and you’ll likely still come out saving money.
4. Don’t Be Afraid of Commitment! Buying a dress is a big decision, but getting a gown at a sample sale isn’t exactly a choice you can sleep on. Trust your gut and come prepared to make a purchase on the spot if you find a dress you’re happy with. After all, isn’t commitment what weddings are all about? 30
6. Be Savvy & Ask Questions Just because you have to do some quick decision making doesn’t mean you should settle for feeling uniformed and uncomfortable. Sales associates will be busy, but they can still field questions about the dresses, what your options are regarding any issues with gowns and what the store’s alteration policy is regarding samples.
7. Keep an Open Mind Ideally, you will already have a style in mind when you walk into the sample sale, but your options will be restricted by what’s available. Keep an eye out for gowns similar to what you envision and give them a fair shot. If you don’t have luck with what you think you want, don’t be afraid to branch out—as the saying goes, you won’t know until you try.
8. What Not to Wear You’ll be changing in and out of dresses quickly, so keep your shopping outfit simple to save time - no layers you’ll have to keep taking on and off or laces you’ll have to tie and retie. Ensure dresses look their best when you try them on by wearing nude, seamless underwear and your favorite strapless bra. At some sample sales, dressing rooms may not be available. Consider wearing tights if you want additional coverage for impromptu changing sessions.
9. Keep Calm and Just Try It On With big crowds and sometimes ferocious competition for dresses, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Don’t be discouraged, just focus on finding gowns in your size that you’re interested in trying. If they don’t work out, there are plenty of other opportunities to find a dress you love. With that said…
10. Stay Savvy! We know how challenging finding the perfect dress can be at the right price. If you don’t walk away from a sample sale with what you wanted, check out off-the-rack bridal boutiques like Savvy Bridal, which offer designer dresses for a big discount off retail prices everyday—no fighting your way to a dress required.
planning ASK THE EXPERT:
Q: I feel like I could plan the wedding myself, but a few of my friends are raving about the planner that they had help with their day. What is an advantage to hiring a wedding planner? A: We would say the biggest advantage is having that go-to person that helps keep you on track throughout the planning process and that ensures you are hiring top notch vendors that are within your budget. There are times a client will come to us after they've already hired several vendors. They are overwhelmed and want help with their budget. At that point, we can't backtrack and save them financially. We help them cut corners in that scenario, but the main goal when hiring us in the beginning is not to cut corners but to help them overall in every category of planning so that they are truly getting what they want without breaking the budget. Q: We are wanting to include various personal touches into our wedding; what are some of the most creative personal touches you have seen? A: We've seen couples personalize their wedding in various ways and we love helping them come up with those ideas! One bride's father was the co-founder of Freddy's so she chose to bring in burgers, fries and frozen custard as a late night snack. The best part were the fountains (literally) of their famous fry sauce! Other brides have chosen "his and her" favorite foods, drinks and desserts. Some couples have given guests their favorite candles, soaps, or treats. We always look for ways to tell the bride and groom's story because that is truly what personalizes a wedding day. Q: What is the best way to build planning boundaries with parents & future in-laws? We value their ideas but don’t want to hurt feelings or feel guilty about not implementing them into our wedding plans. 32
By: MIichelle Layman & Jonnelle Belger-Gentry, Events by Elle Photo: Melissa & Beth Photography
A: Generally, parents just want to be included. A great way to do that is to invite them to cake and food tastings! This lets them feel like they are part of the planning process but ultimately, you will decide which food will be served and what flavors of cake you'd like. Q: What is the difference between showing a design photo I like to my florist and sharing that same exact photo to a planner? A: A florist mainly concerns themselves with the details of the flowers whereas a planner not only fulfills the look, but helps to make it a congruent theme throughout the entire wedding. Q: After working with so many couples, what regret do you hear most often after the wedding day? A: Videography! If they chose not to hire a videographer that is always the thing they regret. Videos are different than photos. You will want both! Video portrays the entire day captured live with people's voices, laughter, music, etc. It's a rare moment when all of your family and friends are celebrating together and to have footage of that day together is absolutely priceless.
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LOCAL LUXURIES I
SPECIALTY ITEMS FOUND RIGHT HERE IN TOWN 3.
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1. How Will You Create Something Beautiful Together? ($15) This is a truly inspirational book; full of insights, stories and thoughtful questions for new couples. It makes for a truly heartwarming gift that will lift a relationship to new heights. This book is a celebration of the power of two. 2. Mr. and Mrs. and All the Best Wishes ($8) These gold-foiled cocktail napkins are ready for a party. They are perfect for a bridal shower, engagement party or hostess gift for the newlyweds. 3. Letters to My Love ($14.94) These are ready-made letters to write and give to the one you love. There are twelve romantically prompted letters, perfect for weddings, anniversaries, engaged couples or long-term couples to treasure for a lifetime. Each letter folds out and includes writing topics like, “I knew you were the one for me when...” and “When we first met...” The letters can be given as a set or individually for future opening.
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4. Silhouette Anniversary Vase ($49) These beautifully hand-crafted ceramic cups are a wonderful addition to any wedding celebration. Embellished on each side with the profile of a bride and groom, they are a special reminder of how two became one. Choose to make it part of your reception table and keep them as an heirloom that represents your special day. 5. On This Day: Wedding Guest Book ($30) This very special guest book will be a perfect addition to your special day and will give you years full of memories. The blank pages are surrounded by beautifully designed quotes about love and relationships. There is room for special thoughts so that you can invite your guests to share a memory, a wish, a thought, or a story that makes them smile. You can find these items and more at Open Home by Mary Schulte, located in the eclectic 45th street antique district of Kansas City.
color me trendy
THE POPULAR COLOR PALETTES OF 2018
SP R ING Dusty Blue & Blush Pink
Navy & Peach with Greenery
Pastels with Natural Elements
SUM MER
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FALL Emerald Green with Fall Accents Navy & Marsala with Pink Accents Dusty Mauve & Plum
W INT E R
Blue & Bold Blooms
Black, Olive & Gold
Gray & Lush Lavendar
Wintery White & Blues
Navy, White & Greens
Cranberry & Blush Tones
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Lakeside Sweethearts
PHOTOGRAPHY Elizabeth Ladean Photography FLORAL Wild Hill Flowers
VENUE The Legacy at Green Hills
RENTALS Ultrapom Event Rentals CAKE Adorn Cakes
RING BOX The Mrs. Box
MODEL, BRIDE Emily Welch
GOWN Fabulous Frocks HAIR Candis Ashley Artistry
INVITATIONS East & West Designs MAKEUP Miles Makeup
MODEL, GROOM Logan Welch
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DIY can be a great way to add a personal touch and cut costs, but know when to leave it to the professionals. Items like floral, draping and lighting can be tricky to get just right, and you don’t want to wear yourself and your family out before your ceremony even begins. Focus on one or two items you can tackle yourself and leave the rest of the work to the pros. Save your energy for celebration and dancing!
Trust your creatives with your whole vision! It is perfectly acceptable to bring in a photo that exemplifies your dream cake, but don't hesitate to share the big picture with your designer. We live our lives immersed in learning new applications and techniques and we just might provide insight that exceeds your pre-consult expectations. Our creative hearts long for the meaning that lives between the details! Share the plans for your paper pieces, florals, heirlooms, lace patterns, or even architectural features with us. Share the quirky details of your love story or describe the emotions you want your guests to experience as they enter the room. A reputable professional will respect that the final design decisions are all yours, but you just might find yourself inspired in unexpected ways when you trust your creatives!
-Jewelee Cox, Tobacco Barn Farm
-Mary Connolly, Cardinal Cake Company
Embrace the chaos of the day with a smile. This is going to be the quickest day of your life and it's important to be in the moment and to trust in your photographer to tell your story. If you don't plan on doing a first look, consider writing a letter to each other. That provides a sweet alternative and you still get emotional images.
If you're interested in preserving your bouquet or other flowers from your wedding, the time to make arrangements for this is BEFORE the wedding! Ask your florist for advice on methods and services available. She can help you design a bouquet that will preserve well, and talk with you about how to get your bouquet through your day in the best shape possible. You'll need to understand the shipping and handling requirements of the preservation service provider and have someone assigned to this job.
-Kat Wooten, Kat Wooten Studios
-Rhae Adams, Found in Nature
Don’t diffuse the fun on the dance floor by pulling guests in the direction of an activity such as a “fake” sparkler exit. Not only are you killing the party vibe (which you want to last all night long), but by creating an exit solely for photography purposes, you are confusing your guests. Are you leaving? Is the party over? Keep it simple- you’re here to celebrate and party with your friends and family, focus on doing that! -Mickey Beach, Elite Sounds
Contrary to popular belief, Friday or Sunday weddings are preferred by many couples planning a ‘destination’ wedding, or who have a considerable number of guests flying from other cities. Here are five reasons and benefits: 1. You get to offer guests a ‘wedding weekend’ of activities not just one day. This gives you more time with your friends and family members, making them feel special and their trip "worth" the travel cost. 2. For traditionalists who want a rehearsal dinner before the wedding, a Sunday wedding allows this to happen on Saturday. 3. Everyone who flies will want to experience the local action and appreciate a mini-vacation. Give your guests an excuse for a long weekend and they will love you for it.
The entire day is about you and your fiancé's love for each other yet you will hardly spend anytime alone. Step outside during the reception for some sunset photos. This will give you some of the prettiest photos from your day as well as time together away from everything going on. You deserve to be alone for a few moments on your amazing day.
4. Having a Friday or Sunday (or weekday) wedding is a natural way to trim your guest list. We feel it is much better to have the wedding of your dreams and fewer guests, than spending your budget on lots of people you may not know that well. Those who really want to be there will be, regardless of the day. 5. Popular vendors are more likely to be available. It is much more important to get the vendors, location, season, setting and style of wedding you want than it is the day of the week. -Sara Howell, Heritage Ranch Event Barn
-Sara Rieth, Sara Rieth Photography
Wedding favors are a special way to thank all your guests for attending your special day. Make sure you plan a display with clear signage about the gifts and remember to order extra! Some family and friends might take several, so having more than enough is important. Choosing a meaningful gift from the heart is the perfect way for everyone to remember your wedding!
Photographers always share their strongest, most favorite images on social media, their website, etc. Before hiring a photographer, ask to see a full gallery of a recent wedding. It will give you an idea of what you can expect from that particular artist. -Brianne Jackson, Brianne Elizabeth Photography
-Kiffany Bosserman, Cottontale
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Your wedding is a day that friends and family have come together to celebrate you, your spouse, and your love for one another. It is all about you, so don’t be afraid to include details that speak to who you both are. This means not feeling pressured to bow to the trends of the day. If you have a collection of jadeite that you love, have your florist make special arrangements in your vases and containers. Use a tablecloth on the cake table that belonged to your grandmother or holds special memories of dinners shared. At a recent wedding, the groom was a geologist. We gathered rock collections from antique and science stores and each guest received a piece of that collection on their place card. Another bride knew her groom loved terrariums, so we created magical, oversized terrariums with woodland plants that special guests were gifted with at the end of the evening. Your wedding day should be a joyful reflection of you!
Gifts for your wedding party are essential. These individuals are pledging their support to your lifelong journey, and they deserve a special 'thank you' for their contribution to your special event. Don't get them a 'one-and-done' present, make your gift to them something that will last as a long-term memory of your wedding. For the bridesmaids - a beautiful piece of jewelry that they can wear in the wedding and beyond. For the groomsman - a handsome wooden flask for their jacket pocket. They will appreciate the thought you put into the selection and remember their commitment to your union every time they see these special items. -Mary Schulte, Open Home
Relax, take it all in, and enjoy your wedding day. Trust your photographer and just enjoy each and every moment. -Marissa Cribbs, Marissa Cribbs Photography
-Brian Morley, Bergamot & Ivy
We encourage our brides to consider and embrace current trends, but you also want a day that looks and feels like you! Don't be afraid to go for something different. Enlist the right partners and execute it well - you may just set your own new trend! -Beth Chappelow, Chappelow Events
If you can’t afford a honeymoon right after the wedding, we still recommend you go somewhere, even local for just 1-3 days. Leave “real life” behind and stay at a hotel, so you can truly get away from your daily routine and enjoy those intimate moments together as a married couple. Indulge with breakfast in bed, soak in the tub or go explore the area and see something you’ve never seen together. It’s an important phase as a newlywed, especially to rejuvenate from planning a wedding. You’ll be so happy you took extra days to relish in your love and daydream about your new married life together! When you return home, you can then start saving for your dream honeymoon for later. -Haley Davis, Destinations HD
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Planning & coordination (816)529-3486
aweddingcometrue.com EABride.com
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The Groom split his pants 10 minutes into the reception! Needless to say, our wedding entrance was very entertaining!
I don't know. Eight bridesmaids seems a touch excessive. @TheArmagh444
-Hannah
-Krishelle
The groom walks with the photographer while the poor bride has to find her own way across the busy road. Not a great start to the marriage! @Louise_Cusack
When your wedding photographer takes a picture of grandpa's monogrammed cufflinks and puts one upside down. @Dahlface10
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After the wedding, one of our groomsmen became dizzy and passed out!
#WEDDING
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"Repeat after me..." "After me."
This whole time I've been so busy trying to plan a wedding that I forgot to plan a honeymoon. #oops @strictlydixie
Our nephew, the ring bearer, got distracted on his way down the asile and sat down next to a person he knew!
@CaitlanTaylor5
-Salina
BEYOND THE WEDDING Strive for Some S p o n t a n e i t y
By: Christie Nordmeyer, The Freestyle Experiment I’ve never understood the couples who treat their wedding as the grand finale, never putting much emphasis into what comes after. Don’t get me wrong; it should be personal, amazing, and everything in between. But, it’s just the starting line to the most significant expedition of your life. I knew that I wanted the beginning of our journey to set a precedence for the rest of our ‘Ever After’. Spontaneity was that descriptor for us. It meant a willingness to always be open to new adventures, even if that meant taking the path less traveled. And a promise to resist mediocrity and instead strive for whatever would set our souls on fire and bring about the best in each other. Midway into planning, we realized our wedding was becoming more of a show and less symbolic of what we actually wanted, so we scrapped the whole thing. With a single week’s notice, we ran off to the mountains, and held a surprise elopement with just a few close friends and photographers. It was relaxing, magical, personal, and so fitting for us. It was everything we could have hoped for, and more. Spontaneity has been a part of our union ever since. We’ve been married a year and a half now. In that time, Bradley walked away from an 18-year career, we sold our house, and with just a three-week notice, we relocated our entire lives to Miami, Florida. Despite the warm weather, and countless Caribbean trips, we concluded that it still wasn’t a perfect fit for us. So, on another calculated whim, we scrapped that decision, cut our losses, and stuck our stuff in storage. We’ve determined that we’re old enough to make our own decisions, but young enough to be proactive about designing a life we love. While looking around everywhere I went, I found far too many people existing, but not really living. They’re stuck in a routine that doesn’t make them happy just to reach a status quo or create what they believe is the American Dream. We didn’t want to fall into that trap. 50
Now on our next big adventure, exchanging quantity of things for quality of life. We’re making our way across the country to check items off the bucket list, and learn a lesson in living autonomously, so that we have the time, passion, and energy to take full advantage of all the epic experiences life has to offer. We’re calling it “The Freestyle Experiment”, and it’s a mission to see if the grass really IS greener on the other side. Although I can’t promise where this path will lead us, as I told my husband in the beginning, I can promise it won’t be boring. Now, while it’s not in everyone’s best interest to pack up their lives and hit the road for an undetermined amount of time, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t seek out some level of spontaneity within your life. Even if it’s a quick weekend getaway from the rest of real life, it’s still a great way to gain a new perspective. And as a bonus, it continues to keep you bonded as a couple. The second you start to feel like you’re getting into a routine rut, find a way to switch gears and do something different. Go to a different restaurant for your standard Saturday night dinner date, or book last minute tickets to Toronto on a weekend when you have nothing else planned. Your relationship will reap the benefits if you make this part of your relationship a priority! Follow Brad & Christie's adventures on social media or at thefreestyleexperiment.com.
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An Enchanted Garden
PHOTOGRAPHER Brianne Elizabeth Photography FLOWERS The Cottage Rose
VENUE Town Square Paola
HAIR & MAKEUP Hello Lovely
CALLIGRAPHY LETTERING Emily Love Events
DESIGN & COORDINATION Belle Journee
GRAPHIC DESIGN & PAPER GOODS BP Creative Group
CAKE Kosmic Cakes
MODEL, BRIDE Danielle Burriss
GOWN All My Heart Bridal
RENTALS Ultrapom Event Rentals
MODEL, GROOM Derek Hoffman, KC Mobile DJ EABride.com
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DESTINATION By: Haley Davis, Destinations HD One of the top subjects I run into with couples is where they should honeymoon. There are so many destinations in the world to choose from and of course we want to see them all. Thousands of places in the world are practically begging to be visited and explored, so choosing one can be a frustrating task. With this in mind, I thought it might be a good idea to provide you with some tips on how you can choose your perfect vacation destination.
Consider Your Budget Though many people don't want to think about money when they're thinking about a honeymoon, we must be mindful of a travel budget. There's nothing worse than going on a wonderful trip, only to come back in massive debt, and worrying about how you'll pay it off. Knowing the budget for your honeymoon will help rule out destinations and help to narrow your search.
Think About the Time of Year That You will be Traveling The weather and the demand for the destination are a few key factors to consider when planning when you will go on your trip. Will it be hot or cold, rainy or dry? When is their busy tourist season? Busier seasons for destinations are generally going to have more expensive hotels, flights, and tickets to attractions. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to see higher price tags during spring break, the holidays, and summer. There are more people traveling at this time and the industry knows it. With regard to the weather, the last thing you want is to get to a destination you have dreamed about, only to be stuck inside because it's raining everyday or it's too cold to play in the ocean.
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Decide if You Want New and Exciting, or Traditional and Relaxing Determining the type of vacation you want to go on is often even more difficult than deciding on the destination itself. It can be scary to choose a location off the beaten path. However, it is often those very destinations that provide the most exciting vacations. For some travelers though, predictable and reliable are non-negotiables. You’ll need to consider if you want activities fueled by adrenaline, or if you want to relax and be pampered. Determine if sightseeing is important to you, or if entertainment is more what you're looking for. Although these things don't have to be mutually exclusive, in some cases you do have to choose relaxation or excitement, attraction hopping or staying in one spot.
Think About Who You are Traveling With Yes, your fiance plays an important role in choosing your destination. You might enjoy the cold weather at a ski resort, but maybe your companion prefers a sunbaked beach or an exotic location. Perhaps you love nature, but your significant other is terrified of wild animals. It is critical you factor in the needs of the both of you.
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CHANNELING YOUR
It goes without saying that boudoir photo sessions have been growing in popularity and versatility over the past few years. So, while the topic (and photos) might be a little risqué to explore, it’s worth it to uncover the true beauty that lies beneath the shoots that have been taking place behind closed doors. There are typically two types of responses received from women when they first hear about a boudoir shoot: an exuberant “Heck, ya!” or a dismissive “Ya, right.” And body type has nothing to do with it; skinny or curvy, it doesn’t matter, women tend to have an opinion that leans one way or another. So, if the waistline isn’t the concern, then what truly lies beneath is one’s mindset. Boudoir shoots are most commonly portrayed as a gift. And while, yes, the images can be put into an album, offered as a present, and will undoubtedly bring a smile to the face of your betrothed, it is also an experience which benefits the participant. It is a way to see the beauty of yourself through another’s eyes, to be proud of who you are as a woman, and to embrace yourself in prettiness, flaws and all. The stereotypical pin-up days are long gone, and boudoir shoots have evolved in versatility to reveal one’s personality. Whether it be feisty or quirky, vociferous or reserved, an environment is created for you to share your uniqueness in the most intimate way; revealing a photographic representation of who your fiancé knows you to be day in and day out.
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The hardest part of a boudoir shoot is making the decision to do it. Once you have successfully silenced the self-sabotaging voice in your head that is trying to keep you from embracing your beauty, you can move on to the fulfilling excitement of the shoot. Don’t stress yourself out to lose weight or wear outfits that make you feel uncomfortable. You won’t have to walk in the door knowing how to be a supermodel, a professional photographer will guide you along the way, sometimes putting you in poses that feel completely wrong, but that end up looking right in the photo in every way. If you are wanting the lavish treatment, hire a hair and makeup stylist to highlight your finest facial qualities. To relieve any shoot-day jitters, pack a bottle of wine and pre-assemble the perfect playlist. But most importantly, relax, be confident, and have some fun!
Photographer: Indium Boudoir Florist: The Cottage Rose Makeup Artist: Melise Porter Model: Stephanie Reyes Videographer: Gold Hairpin Films
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Jeff & Hannah Clarkson
CEREMONY VENUE Christ Church Anglican MENSWEAR Stafford
RECEPTION VENUE The Bride and the Bauer
BRIDESMAID DRESSES Adrianna Pappell
CATERING & CAKE Hy-Vee
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PHOTOGRAPHER Marissa Cribbs Photography
INVITATIONS Design Rabbitt
FLORIST Clara's Flowers
DJ DJ Alex Reed
HAIR Mary Bennett
GOWN Belle Vogue Bridal MAKEUP Shannon Coster
BAR SERVICE Top Shelf Bartending
A FEW
SPECIAL PIECES I wrapped my bridal bouquet with my Mom’s wedding dress sash and tied it off with a cross given to me by my Grammy & Papa. On my right hand, I wore my Gram’s ring that contained the birthstones of her four children, which happened to match perfectly with our wedding colors.
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WEDDING DATE
April 29, 2017
Jeff & Hannah's LOVE
STORY
LOCATION
Kansas City, MO
It was a typical Friday night, Hannah's friend was insistent that they go to Shark Bar, and after much convincing, Hannah was on her way to the Power & Light District. Jeff went through a similar situation, and almost chose to not go out that night. After being introduced at the bar, Hannah and Jeff’s evening progressed with a flurry of events, including Hannah forcing Jeff to dance to the Cupid Shuffle and Jeff trying to convince Hannah that he was related to Kelly Clarkson. At the end of the night they exchanged numbers. On their first date, Jeff picked Hannah up for sushi. Arriving at the restaurant, Jeff was mortified that it appeared to be a "fast food" sushi restaurant. Hannah did not care at all. They sat and talked about family, politics, career goals, and everything in between. At the end of the date Jeff dropped Hannah at home and she had an instinct that this was going to be her last first date. They continued to spend time together over the next three years and fell in love along life’s journey. One Christmas, Hannah’s parents decided to come spend the holiday in Kansas City. Due to Jeff’s work schedule, there was only one day he was off while they were visiting, so they made plans to spend the day together. That morning, Jeff woke up early and said he had to go into work. Hannah slept in and decided to make Christmas cookies with her mom. Later, Jeff came back after “work”, with Hannah’s Dad’s blessing in hand. That evening they exchanged Christmas presents. Jeff opened his present first, a soccer jersey. Hannah opened her gift, Ugg slippers. She wanted to try them on right away but Jeff stopped her and said that he had one more present for her. At that moment, he got down on one knee and Hannah burst into tears as he proposed. When planning the wedding, Jeff and Hannah wanted every detail to be meaningful and to represent their personalities. That was how they determined if something was worth the work and money that went into it. When picking a theme, the bridesmaid dresses were the focal point. Not wanting to pick only one or two colors, Hannah searched for the perfect bright floral-patterned dress. And found it! The day was perfect despite the torrential rain that did not let up at any point. The day flew by and Jeff & Hannah were able to enjoy every second of it.
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THE GROOM’S
FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY
My favorite part of the day was when we exchanged our vows. It seemed as if we were the only two people in the room during that time and it meant (means) everything to me.
THE BRIDE’S
FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY
Like Jeff, my favorite part of the day was our vows. Everyone in attendance could see how much it meant to us to exchange them, especially because of how emotional we got. It was a moment I will never forget.
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Jerrod & Rupal Commerford
CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE Hilton President MAKEUP MAC-Shelly Spencer
PHOTOGRAPHER Photos by Neyan
FLORIST Wild Hill Flowers
DJ DJ Big Dog
BRIDESMAID'S DRESS GOWN Belle Vogue Mia's Bridal LIGHTING Innovative Lighting
VIDEOGRAPHY Dark Horse Digital
HAIR Emily Metzger FAVORS Kate Aspen
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WEDDING DATE
September 30, 2017
Jerrod & Rupal's LOVE
STORY
LOCATION
Kansas City, MO
Jerrod and I met through the modern marvels of technology but first inquired with a mutual friend regarding each other’s personality before meeting. The first date went wonderfully. After which, Jerrod said he was not going to let me get away and was very proactive on getting that second and third date. It did not take me long before I knew he was the one as well. While coming from very different backgrounds, we actually shared a lot of the same values and had a lot in common in what we wanted out of our lives. We both felt love for each other and I knew I had never experienced this feeling in my life before. It was the first weekend of 2017 and Jerrod and I were supposed to go to dinner with my parents. They came to our home and we were visiting when my Dad, who likes to be handy and help around the house, asked to show me where the water shut-off valve was in the basement in case I ever needed to shut it off. I obliged and went downstairs to see it; all the while Jerrod was upstairs preparing for the proposal. He tied the ring to our dog’s collar and told me to go in our sun room to "see something" outside. I noticed something on the collar, and at that moment Jerrod got down on one knee. I honestly don’t remember what he said, but it was the best moment of my life. After the excitement, we continued with our plans to go to dinner. I mentioned that we should go to Summit, our favorite restaurant, and Jerrod and my family obliged. When we walked in we were welcomed with an hour wait. Despite the wait, Jerrod led us toward their private event space, and I followed slightly confused. It ended up that our family and friends were all there to surprise us! It was another awesome surprise and a fun celebration with those close to us! We were engaged in January and decided to get married that year, so the engagement was quick and we had to pull all of the pieces together in a short amount of time. We had to plan for both the Hindu and traditional ceremonies and wanted to do everything in a special way. The traditional ceremony was first. After the traditional ceremony we quickly changed into the clothing for the Hindu ceremony. Typically these last hours but we were able to condense it into a little less than an hour. The mandap (stage) was so beautifully adorned with flowers and the Indian décor. After the Hindu ceremony was cocktail hour on the mezzanine level and the reception followed. We did the typical dances and cake cutting and then closer to the end of the night we did the Indian traditional ‘stick dance’ or as people call it "dandiyas". It was so fun! I loved that our guests were able to participate in something unique and different at our wedding. 74
A FEW
SPECIAL PIECES We absolutely loved that we could include Oliver, our maltipoo, in the wedding. He came and took photos with us in his little doggy tux and walked with Jerrod and his parents down the aisle. Incorporating both of our cultures into the wedding day was important to us. From the way the wedding invites were designed, to the two ceremonies and the little elephant place card holders, we tried to keep it simple, yet include elements from both cultures.
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THE GROOM’S
FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY
My favorite part of the wedding day was having our family involved in both the traditional and the Indian ceremonies. After the ceremony, it was fun being able to celebrate our love with our closest family and friends.
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THE BRIDE’S
FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY
My favorite part of our big day was the Indian and traditional infusion that was incporated throughout the entire day. I love that we had several parts of the day that stand out from most weddings and that Jerrod and his family were so open to the Indian culture.
Thomas & Salina Fisher
PHOTOGRAPHER GOWN WEDDING PLANNER CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE Weston Red Barn Farm Brianne Elizabeth Photography BHLDN- Genevieve Mick & Kristi Jewett MENSWEAR Bridal Extraordinaire
HAIR & MAKEUP Melissa Blayton
FLORIST Bella Chic Floral
INVITATIONS Zazzle
CATERER DJ The Rub Bar-B-Que Hi-Rise DJ
CAKE RENTALS SIGNS TRAVEL AGENT Sugar & Spice Catering Ultrapom Event Rentals Inspire Paint Dream Vacations
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A FEW
SPECIAL PIECES The week before the wedding Thomas’s Grandmother gave us his great grandparents’ champagne glasses from their wedding day. The glasses have their names on them and a simple gold edge on top. They were Polish immigrants from Germany and while they’re not with us anymore, Thomas and his family still hold them very close to their hearts. EABride.com
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WEDDING DATE
October 7, 2017
Thomas & Salina's LOVE
STORY
LOCATION
Weston, MO
Thomas and I met while working at Cold Stone Creamery when we were just juniors in high school. Both Thomas and my sister were team leaders at the creamery. Thomas was the scheduled leader for my second shift and while working that night, a conversation bloomed that would be later illustrated as the beginning of our relationship. We were complete opposites from the beginning, I was the shy artistic girl and he was the outgoing athletic guy. We spent five years dating and getting to know each other. Throughout that time he continuously encouraged me to do things that had once made me feel uncomfortable. He was (and is) always supportive of my dreams. I didn’t know it then, but I think I started falling in love when I began realizing how important those qualities were in a partner. He had the ability to put a smile on my face and to make me laugh, while also being a great listener. He was so easy to talk and relate to. After stepping back and taking a look at what my life had become with him in it, I realized what I had in Thomas and how much love I had for him. We were together for five years before getting engaged. We felt it was important to take our time before making a big commitment and I’m glad we did, because you truly learn something new about the person you love everyday. I knew there was something fishy going on leading up to the proposal. Thomas would leave the room to speak to an “unknown person”, he would visit the gym at weird times, and was hiding money and wouldn’t let me see the bank account. At one point, I was under the assumption he was planning to leave me with how odd he was acting. While in Key West, Thomas proposed to me on the beach just after sunrise. All of the suspicious activity was to create a custom ring and plan a wonderful proposal in the most beautiful spot. I did most of the wedding planning myself but the most imporant piece to us was that it was a relaxed day. I liked the look of boho-chic and tried to incorporate that in as many ways possible.
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THE GROOM’S
FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY
Our first look. I was standing on the edge of a tree line while nothing but quietness and stillness filled the air in that unimaginable moment. Six years of memories we shared together flooded my memory and gave me tunnel vision and excitement for the hours to come. Then Salina tapped me on the shoulder and the whole world stopped and everything was just about us.
THE BRIDE’S
FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY
My favorite moment was walking down the aisle towards Thomas. I was looking at the guy that I had spent six amazing years with and in that moment I got so excited to spend the rest of my life with him.
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Ryan & Bailee Greenhaw
PHOTOGRAPHER WEDDING PLANNER CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE GOWN MENSWEAR The Midland Theater Events by Elle Claire Ryser Photography Altar Bridal Generation Tux CEREMONY MUSIC CATERING RECEPTION BAND HAIR FLORIST Moxie Catering Good Earth Floral Design Angie DeVol Artistry Melissa Hile The Patrick Lentz Band MAKEUP Sarah Abby
INVITATIONS Magpie Designed
CAKE Baked Expressions
TRANSPORTATION Custom Limo
VIDEOGRAPHY Shawn Gromely Video
RENTALS Ultrapom
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A FEW
SPECIAL PIECES I had my florist arrange my bouquet so that a part of it could be separated. As I walked down the aisle, I stopped at my mom's chair to give her a kiss and handed her a small piece of my bouquet.
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WEDDING DATE
October 7, 2017
Ryan & Bailee's
LOVE
STORY
LOCATION
Kansas City, MO
I’ve had the blessing (sometimes a curse) of a strong long-term memory. While most things have faded over time, I definitely remember the pretty blonde girl from the Brookridge Elementary after school program. I remember how frustrating it was to be in in this program to begin with, but at the time I was deemed by my parents far too big of a risk to be left home alone between the time school got out and when they had gotten off work. Beyond my frustration, I remember a few bright spots of this “necessary” arrangement, such as the free snacks and infinite recess. In a time when girls were less important than Starter Jackets, spit balls, and impromptu karate matches; I never forgot Bailee. Three years later, Bailee would enter my life once again in a similar fashion. Only this time the after school program was wrestling practice, and girls were no longer less important than spit balls. Being in a different grade, Bailee and I hadn’t seen or spoken with each other over the years; but I immediately knew who it was when I saw her once again. While it was long ago, I remember the immediate draw we’ve always had to each other. While our relationship was probably best described as young love and wildly immature; I also knew that I had never felt a connection with anyone like I did with Bailee. The pretty blonde girl from Brookridge that I remembered for being... well... pretty, quickly developed into the closest person I’ve ever had in my life. These years had more memories than I can count: camping out in my car, running from the cops, horrible poetry, Sublime, AOL Instant Messenger, and football games. We had a blast. But unfortunately when it came time for me to graduate, we had the notion that many relationships did at this point; that being apart for college was simply too difficult for both of us. We spent the better part of the next 10 years apart, both heading in different directions and for the most part, different cities. While our contact was usually sporadic; we always found a way to keep up with one another, and I rarely ever felt like Bailee was too far away. Whether it was a random party, a late night call, or simply a lucky coincidence, we would always find a way to “accidentally” cross paths. In May of 2014 I asked Bailee to help me move in to my new condo; only this time she never left. Maybe it was the hours of moving furniture up the stairs at Bella, or maybe it was simply the 3 bottles of wine we needed to do it. Whatever the reason, Bailee and I came to the same conclusion that we’d been too stubborn to admit for the last 10 years: we are better together than we are apart. On September 2nd, 2016, my birthday, I asked Bailee to be my wife.
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THE GROOM’S
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THE BRIDE’S
FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY
FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY
My favorite part of the wedding was hearing the speeches that our friends and family gave at the reception. Hearing how happy everyone was for us was really special to both of us. In general, being able to share our day with friends and family is a memory I will always cherish.
My favorite part of the wedding day was dancing with our family and friends at the end of the night. It was bittersweet to finally feel the wedding stress leave while also knowing that our special day was coming to an end.
Because your big day should be
Y
. e l b a tt e g or unf
our first look at the gorgeous ballroom will leave you breathless. This is the beginning of a memorable evening for you and your guests. Our beautiful hotel is the perfect setting for your special day. Our experienced team is dedicated to working with you on every planning detail so you can simply relax and enjoy an unforgettable celebration. Contact Samie.LaForce@hilton.com or call 816-303-1628.
presidentkansascity.hilton.com 1329 Baltimore, Kansas City, MO 64105 Allie and Tucker’s Hilton President wedding reception April 30, 2016. Photo credit melissaandbeth.com
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Jaz & Samantha January
CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE Heritage Ranch HAIR & MAKEUP Mia Bella Salon CATERER Geaux Catering
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PHOTOGRAPHER Elise Abigail Photo
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Show Me Your Mumu RENTALS Ultrapom Event Rentals
GOWN Daughters of Simone
MENSWEAR Asos
FLORIST Free State Flora
CAKE DECORATOR Hanhahs Cake
BAR SERVICE True Blue Bartending
VIDEOGRAPHY Alex Schneider Video
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WEDDING DATE
September 29, 2017
Jaz & Samantha's LOVE
STORY
LOCATION
Sedalia, MO
Jaz and I met at a mutual friend’s wedding. I was in the bridal party and Jaz's dad was friends with the bride and owned the venue the wedding was being hosted at. The bride had been trying to get us together to meet, but I had just gotten out of a serious relationship and Jaz was traveling overseas for school. Neither of us were in a rush to meet the other. When we did meet at the wedding, we were both super awkward and didn’t talk to each other. However, thanks to social media, I later got the courage to ask him out! I now make fun of him that I had to be the one to ask. I have always been in awe of Jaz's intelligence; when I first went to his house he had a bookcase that covered an entire wall, stacked full of books. I wasn’t used to seeing this from previous college boys and might have fallen in love right then. From that moment on, I have been in constant awe of his mind. He challenges me in every way to be a better person. And when I realized this, I knew I had found the man I was supposed to be with for the rest of my life. Jaz and I are both from Wichita. I had gotten a new job in Kansas City and while still searching for a job of his own, Jaz decided to stay in Wichita. I commuted back and forth every weekend to make sure that we could spend time together. Upon driving back one Friday night, I found a “Notice of Eviction” sign on the door. Jaz had created the notice and had come up with clever verbiage about never having to live or be alone. When I opened the door I found that he had stacked up several moving boxes in the living room and painted the words “Let’s get a move on” on them. The best part was that he was right there waiting with the ring to propose. Jaz and I are very do-it-yourselfers. We love a good craft night, so I knew that I would take this wedding on without a planner. We went with a boho theme. I wanted flowers and colors everywhere. The days leading up to our wedding were hectic. Family was everywhere, decorations and supplies littered the house. Every second leading up to walking down the aisle was insane. As soon as I met Jaz’s eyes as I walking down the aisle, time stopped. We could only see each other and all the craziness of the past few days had disappeared. Our favorite moment from the wedding day was the ceremony. It was so magical. Hearing each other say such wonderful things in our vows and making beautiful promises to one another will never be topped. It was the only part of the day where it truly was just husband and wife and everything else slowed down.
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Brandon & Krishelle Ivory
CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE PHOTOGRAPHER WEDDING PLANNER WEDDING GOWN MENSWEAR Terrace on Grand Gown Gallery JPR Styling Freeland Photography Emad Aboul-Hosn BRIDESMAID DRESSES Bella Bridesmaids
GROOMSMEN ATTIRE Tip Top Tux
INVITATIONS ATG Invitations
HAIR Luse Hairs- LaToyiah
MAKEUP Syniara Toombs
FLORIST DJ BAND GUITARIST CATERER Taste Catering Good Earth Floral Design Studio DJ Johnny Quest Reeko Lion & Deepa Reality Jukeboxx Media TRANSPORTATION CAKE Adorn Cakes Showtime Transportation/Pech Limousine
PHOTOBOOTH ShutterBooth KC
VIDEOGRAPHY AlphaMale Visuals
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A FEW
SPECIAL PIECES Our favorite detail was the Caribbean band we had perform at cocktail hour. My family is from Jamaica and we wanted to surprise guests with some authentic reggae tunes. To top it off, it was my Uncle’s band. To hear him sing and entertain our guests was incredible!
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WEDDING DATE
May 27, 2017
Brandon & Krishelle's LOVE
STORY
LOCATION
Kansas City, MO
Brandon and I met in 2014, after being introduced through a mutual friend. It was a random night on the town and our friend felt that we just had to meet. Neither of us were looking for love when we met, yet neither of us wanted to leave the other alone. Our personalities are as different as the sun and moon, but our bond is inseparable. It truly felt like fate had brought us together. We were together for a year and a half before getting engaged. My birthday was on December 10, 2015, but the proposal started the day before with a series of clues. On December 9th, I received two clues; one delivered to me at a nail shop, the other at my pre-birthday dinner. Each clue contained a plan of what I was supposed to do. The next day, I made my way over to my parents, as I was told, where I was handed clue number three. By this time, I was on my way to the airport. It was not until I checked in that I learned where I was going, California! I made my way to baggage claim where Brandon's best friend (and soon-to-be best man) was waiting for me, holding a "Happy Birthday" sign and clue number four. We made our way to the car and drove for what felt like forever. Once we got closer, he asked, "Do you know where you are?" I said, "No" and he replied, "You're in Napa Valley. Brandon is in there waiting for you." I got out of the car and walked into this beautiful space called The Celadon where Brandon was standing there waiting for me. He walked me to clue five, which was a Vera Wang jewelry box. He said, "This is it babe!" He dropped to one knee, and I said "Yes"! We spent the rest of the weekend celebrating in Napa Valley and San Francisco. Our wedding day was everything we could ever ask for, but it did not start off that way. The morning of our wedding was cloudy, which made us both nervous since our ceremony was planned to be held rooftop. Both our venue and florist called asking if we wanted to move everything inside. Our response was nope, this will pass. It rained all afternoon, stopped, and rained again as guests arrived. Six o'clock came, the time of the ceremony, and the rain cleared. Our hearts were so happy. Our prayers were answered. We knew our union was blessed.
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THE GROOM’S
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THE BRIDE’S
FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY
FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY
My most memorable moment was coming out to the crowd at the reception when introduced as Mr. & Mrs. Brandon Ivory. We came out hype dancing while our wedding party woke up the crowd and prepared them for the finale.
My most memorable moment was watching the Groom and Groomsmen serenade me with their New Edition routine. It was AMAZING!
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