Tips and Resources
FOR CREATING A WEDDING SEASON THAT GIVES BACK
Honeymoon IN ITALY
On Our Radar CITY VIEW AT STERLING SQUARE
SHARING THE
love
IN OUR BEAUTIFUL
River Valley
REGION
Stack your style...
a lifetime of memories, created one moment at a time.
IOO+ designs to choose from
Photo by Esther Bloom Photography
Photo by Meghan Premuda Photography
Photo by The Progressive Image
Photo by Shilawana Ruffner Photography
Inspiration
RealWeddings
Pro Tips
Local Love
9 Let Love Bloom 15 Forbidden Love 21 Anchored in Love
42 Love to Last
3 Weddings That
6 Fall Florals
52 Meant to Be 56 The Adventure
32 Hair
26 On Our Radar
34 Nails 36 Destinations &
30 Model Spotlight
78 Time to Mix
40 Bridal Fashion 48 Florist Spotlight 61 Rehearsal Dinner 76 Garden Grove
72 For the Love of Fall
Lifetime
Begins
64 Friends for Life
Give Back
Honeymoons
It Up! Signature Drinks for your Wedding
85 Wedding Music 88 Wine Map
City View
35 Invitation Suite of
the Fall
Event Center
87 Flower Girl
Dresses Modeled by SMILE
Photo by Shilawana Ruffner Photography
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LETTER FROM THE EDITORS OUR EIGHTH ISSUE...WOW! That means we have completed our second year as a magazine, and we could not be more excited about the contents of this issue! Every page is overflowing with the creativity and hard work of our area vendors, and the bar that we first set when we started this magazine just keeps getting higher AND HIGHER!!!!! But that was what we set out to do. We wanted to inspire you. We’ve had fun challenging each other on who could come up with the best/craziest ideas and welcomed feature ideas from countless vendors. In this issue, we continue to inspire with our Exclusive Inspiration shoots – we have our take on Snow White, a fun floral fashion spread and a dynamic sunset shoot on the LST. Whether we are writing up articles on ceremony music sources or giving you tips on having a wedding that gives back – we strive to always be there to help you plan your day.
Cheers!
JoElle Knight and Nikki Davis JOELLE KNIGHT
NIKKI DAVIS
FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
MANAGING EDITOR
CONNECT WITH US
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@ENGAGEDRIVERVALLEY
@ENGAGEDRIVERVALLEY
@ENGAGEDRV
ON OUR Cover This hauntingly beautiful photo from our Forbidden Love photoshoot was taken by the talented Laura Rush of Esther Bloom photography. She is our go-to girl for all things dark, moody and simply epic, and there was no better location for us to shoot than Wesselman Woods, the largest area of Old Growth Forest in the state of Indiana. Did you catch the owl on our Snow White’s bouquet!?! Yes, Gizmo is from the Wesselman Woods Nature Center and added the perfect final detail. Catch him in our Behind-the-Scenes video link on the Forbidden Love spread!
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CREATING A WEDDING SEASON THAT
Gives Back
Many of us in some way, shape or form have ties to charities, non-profits, or other organizations that give back to our communities or nationally in some way, but have you given any thought to using your wedding as a vehicle to give back? Make the day and the entire process not just about you, but an opportunity to raise awareness or do something good for a worthwhile cause. Here are some ideas that you might consider implementing:
ASK THAT DONATIONS BE MADE TO A CHARITY IN PLACE OF GIFTS In lieu of gifts, consider asking that donations be made to your favorite charity. Sometimes this is done for second, third or later weddings, but it could also be done for a bridal shower idea as well. ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY 3
GIVE THE OPTION OF DONATIONS TO CHARITIES INSTEAD OF FAVORS In lieu of favors, a donation could be made to your favorite charity on behalf of your guests. Then you could place a small inexpensive paper acknowledgment at each place setting. This is a wonderful two-for-one. Not only will your contribution make an impact on that organization, but by you writing the information out at each seat, you raise awareness about the charity or non-profit, most especially if you share pertinent information such as why it’s important to you, what its mission is, and contact information if they would like to volunteer, make a donation of their own, or if your guests would like to learn more!
DONATE YOUR LEFT OVER FOOD Donate your left over food to an organization in need of food such as a shelter.
PURCHASE ONLINE THROUGH SITES THAT OFFER NONPROFIT GIVEBACK Make your online purchases through a site such as https://smile.amazon.com/ and choose the nonprofit of your choice for the giveback amount to go to.
UTILIZE A NONPROFIT FACILITY Host your bridal shower or your reception at a nonprofit facility.
INCORPORATE A GIVE BACK ACTIVITY INTO YOUR BRIDAL SHOWER In lieu of or as part of your bridal shower, plan a give back activity like a home build with Habitat or sit and drink wine while writing out cards for service men and women.
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DONATE OR REPURPOSE FLOWERS Donate your flowers to a nursing home, or repurpose them and regift them.
PURCHASE BRIDESMAIDS’ GIFTS FROM COMPANIES THAT GIVE BACK Purchase bridesmaids’ gifts that are from companies that give back or support important causes such as Uncharted International, which has a lovely local shop right in Evansville.
DONATE DRESSES TO A GOOD CAUSE Consider donating your wedding dress to a good cause that either sells it and uses the money for their charity or reuses it for someone in need. Your bridesmaids might also consider donating their dresses as well to our local area Hangers clothing closet to be the next prom dress for some lucky high school girl!
DONATE FREQUENT FLIER MILES TO INJURED SOLDIER’S FAMILIES Lastly, did you know that you can donate your post honeymoon frequent flier miles to the family of an injured soldier through a programs like Hero Miles? Check with your preferred airline to see what their particular program name is, but what a great way to start your new life together as a couple knowing that you made a difference to another family!
- Nikki Davis Engaged! River Valley, Managing Editor
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Photo by Shillawna Ruffner
F allF lorals Fall is finally here, but cooler temps don’t always have to mean darker tones. To go with the season, we asked some of the area’s top floral designers to create a bouquet inspired by this time of year. We love what they came up with! The textures and the colors blew us away!
BOUQUET BY ZEIDLER’S FLOWERS (812) 402-1234 https://www.zeidlers.com/ https://www.facebook.com/zeidlersflowers/
Photo by Artistic Imagery Photography
BOUQUET BY OBJ DESIGN (812) 480-6767 https://obj-design.com/ https://www.facebook.com/objdsgn/
BOUQUET BY EMERALD DESIGN (812) 760-0452 https://emeraldevv.com/ https://www.facebook.com/emeraldevv/
LOVE A BOUQUET?
Click on it to see more information on the florist behind the magic.
Photo by Sharin Shank
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ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY EXCLUSIVE INSPIRATION
L E T LOV E
Bloom! Produced by JoElle Knight and Whitney Muncy
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Get thisLook PHOTOGRAPHER Shillawna Ruffner Photography FLORAL ACCESSORIES Emerald Design FLORAL CENTERPIECE Emerald Design DESIGNER/DÉCOR JoElle Elise Design STATIONERY Hannah Theiring DRESS & SHOES madlove by Paparazzi MENSWEAR Men's Wearhouse CAKE Piece of Cake Bakery HAIR Erin Hightower- Tangles Salon MAKEUP Glam Bar
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Forbidden
ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY EXCLUSIVE INSPIRATION
LOVE
Produced by JoElle Knight
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Get this Look PHOTOGRAPHER Esther Bloom Photography VENUE Wesselman Woods RENTALS & DECOR Just Your Style Events FLORAL & DESIGN JoElle Elise Design STATIONERY Howl Creative DRESS Ella Park Bridal MENSWEAR Ella Park Bridal HAIR & MAKEUP Abbi Williams PIES Be Happy Pie Company JEWELRY HD Bean Jewelers GROOMSMAN GIFT Groovy Guys Gifts
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ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY EXCLUSIVE INSPIRATION
Anchored
IN LOV E Produced by Jena Eichler
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Get this Look PHOTOGRAPHER The Progressive Image LOCATION USS LST Ship Memorial DRESSES madlove by Paparazzi FLORAL Zeidler’s Flowers CAKE Bauerhaus Pastry MAKEUP Dacia’s View HAIR JS & Co. Beauty Salon PLANNER River Top Event Coordinating
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ON OUR RADAR
CITY VIEW AT STERLING SQUARE At 210 North Fulton Avenue, just off the Lloyd Expressway, is a two-story building that was originally built in 1910 as the Fulton Avenue Mercantile Company. A couple of transitions since then, the last long-term occupant in that building was the Central Labor Union. Jack Rogers Realtor was looking to bring life to this historic building and found the perfect opportunity to do just that AND fill a huge need in the Evansville area when they embarked upon a mission to develop a first-class event space. Early in 2018, when they began renovations they soon uncovered fourteen-foot ceilings, a grand staircase and original exposed brick interior walls. In an effort to make this THE premier event space in Evansville, they have hired all the right people to make this the venue that everyone dreams of: state of the art audio visual equipment and event lighting, custom designed catering kitchen, original interiors that have been enhanced with custom woodworking and vintage reclaimed industrial details. Many surprises that are “over 26 ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY
the top” have been saved for the Grand Opening. This is not your office. This is not a hotel boardroom. This is not another big, “white- box” event space. This is City View at Sterling Square. Weddings at City View will be able to reflect the personalities of the couples who get married there. With a beautiful blend of industrial urban alongside formal design, it is the perfect venue for making it as formal or as casual as you choose. Two floors will provide enough space for over 200 guests to have the ceremony on one floor and the reception of the other. The wedding party will be able to get ready in our designated bridal and groom rooms with plenty of space. City View has a dedicated event design staff who will assist you in planning all of the details for your special day. Are you planning a meeting, conference or company retreat? City View has it all covered for you. A variety of 5 different rooms offers areas for general sessions, breakout rooms, including
2 large ballrooms that can give you one room for your presentation and the other for breakfast, lunch, dinner or cocktails. We pride ourselves with state of the art audio/ visual technology that is unheard of in the event venue industry in the Evansville area. Weddings, showers, mitzvahs, birthdays, fundraisers and corporate receptions – City View is all about throwing a great party. Our goal is to provide an unforgettable experience no matter the occasion. Our team will enable you to be the host while leaving the details to us. City View has teamed up with some of the best caterers in the area. If you are looking for a plated meal, passed appetizers, buffet style, or stations, any of our caterers can execute to perfection. City View will provide the alcoholic beverages and bartenders, giving our clients an opportunity to make choices for their own custom bar menu. Make sure you check out our website at www.cityviewevv.com and our social media pages to see more. If you would like a personal tour or a meeting with the event design team, call 812-4371910, and we would love for you to experience this amazing space and assist you in planning your next event.
MODEL SPOTLIGHT
Courtney Johnson
OF YOUNG & ESTABLISHED
Photo by Alexander Paa Barniak
We had the pleasure of meeting Courtney Johnson at one of our inspiration shoots for this issue, and we wanted to share with our readers more about the man behind the photos. According to Courtney, “I noticed there were a lot of things wrong in the community. The crime rate had gone up, a lot of my peers were caught up in the life of drugs and violence, and there was a huge lack of positive mentors and guidance for the youth. That made me want to get more involved in the community and get others to as well. We needed all the help that
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we could get. It started off as a small movement that focused on park clean-ups and food drives during the holidays. There was no name for this or anything. I just wanted to help my own community that I grew up in in any way I could. Each event started to grow and more people wanted to be a part of this 'movement' I started. That inspired me to look into how I could get a 501(c)3 in order to become a nonprofit. It wasn't long before Young & Established was born. I really wanted to focus on the youth, as they are our future, and also, bettering the community. It's been 5 years now and we're still continuing to grow! I'm a man of God, and I truly believe He gave me the vision to start all of this.Â
Young & Established continues to strive to be a leading organization that actively promotes positive youth empowerment. It's the passionate desire we have for the youth and young adults to realize their self-worth and potential, establish and reach goals, become successful members of their communities! We want to continue to inspire and mentor youth, promote local and national charitable activities, and instill a positive message in the community through our annual events, programs, campaigns, and sincere goodwill.�
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUNG & ESTABLISHED, VISIT: HTTP://WWW.YOUNGANDESTABLISHED.COM/
HAIR STYLING
FALL WEDDING
Perfection
A simple half up, half down hairstyle works wonderfully for very long hair. Ashlynn pulled a couple of pieces back into bobby pins and teased it to give it more body. This style coupled with floral hair accessories is perfect for fall. Ashlynn Piper has been with Impulse for almost a year and absolutely loves it! She looks forward to working with any and all brides to style them for their big day! 32 ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY
Makeup done by Tricia Leavitt. Skincare is her passion, but she also loves waxing, facials, and makeup, too! For the hottest hair styles and to schedule an appointment for your bridal party manicure session contact Impulse Salon & Spa. www.ImpulseHair.com 812.858.5554
BEAUTY
Manicure
TRENDING NOW
ADD THE ACRYLICS A classic french manicure with acrylics is timeless and clean for any wedding. If you want to personalize it for your day, you can always add rhinestones for embellishment. Manicure by Renee Hawkinson who has over 28 years of experience. Renee works at Impulse Salon and Spa and Bella Vita Salon in Owensboro, and she would love to help you create a nail style that is the perfect for your big day. Then let the Impulse team help you take care of the rest of your wedding day style! For the hottest nail design and to schedule an appointment for your bridal party manicure session contact Impulse Salon & Spa. www.ImpulseHair.com 812.858.5554
STATIONERY
S tationery Suite
OF THE FALL
Wine, gold & ivory are the most popular colors for weddings this fall season! This simple and elegant invitation suite is accented by a “postman blue” script to match the grooms suit! The entire suite fits neatly into the wine-colored pocket, which is then wrapped in a gold shimmer belly band. Pockets are a great way to keep your information and RSVP
cards organized. They also add that extra punch of elegance to help your guests know what to expect for your big day. For more information on Steadfast Media and their custom wedding stationery, visit http://Steadfast.Media
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DESTINATIONS & HONEYMOONS
Andiamo a Italia
Italy offers a variety of regions and experiences for everyone. Extending over 620 miles from north to south, it encompasses the beautiful lakes and mountain of the Alps down to the gorgeous Mediterranean shores and islands of the Amalfi coast. Few places in the world can compete with Italy’s art, scenery, architecture, music or culinary offerings! Tourists flock to the popular cities to visit are Florence, Venice and Rome. Florence is home to Renaissance art, leather and jewelry shopping and the rolling hills of Tuscany. The unique “city-on-water” of Venice boasts the amazing Grand Canal, enchanting Piazzo San Marco and romantic gondola serenades. History buffs marvel at ancient Rome’s magnificent architectural works including the Colosseum, the Vatican, St Peter’s Basilica, Trevi Fountain and the 1900 year old Pantheon, just to name a few. As you can see, Italy offers some wonderful places to explore. And let’s not forget about the food!
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(LET’S GO TO ITALY)
Who doesn’t love homemade pasta, eating pizza from its birthplace, the best gelato, exceptional olive oil, infamous lemoncello and fantastic wine. Italy offers something for the transportation enthusiast. Once you’ve arrived, you could choose to take a train, rent a car, take a ferry or boat, rent a scooter or bicycle, experience a vaporetto (water taxi) or even take a gondola ride in one of Venice’s infamous canals. Italy is also a great choice for romantic destination weddings and honeymoons. Weddings can be performed in scenic places such as the Amalfi coast, Cinque Terre or in the Tuscan countryside. Honeymooners can decide between being active, exploring, relaxing or doing a combination of all. As the title says, Andiamo a Itali – let’s go to Italy! But beware it is a destination that you will fall in love with and want to return again and again. -Tina Brunck, Travel Smart
812.479.8687 | MyAmbassadorTravel.com
BRIDAL FASHION
NO RAIN ON THE
Millenial Bride’s Parade Millennials are credited with the destruction of pretty much everything in today’s society, and the traditional union of souls is no exception! A lot has changed in the past decade of wedding planning, from the coveted location right down to the attire. Gone are the days of the “Princess Diana” cathedral veil and family-lit unity candelabras in the church where the bride was baptized as a baby. The ceremony program that had been used for pretty much any couple wed prior to 2010 can be found right next to the dyeable bridesmaids shoes in wedding heaven, where retired styles go to rest eternally. Though this might thoroughly upset Aunt Barbara, we say good riddance! While writing your own vows used to be the most thoughtful thing a couple could do, the Millennial generation has taken personalization and intimacy of their sacred event to a new level. Kudos y’all! Your display of sentiments has ruined the entire audience’s mascara- and even your tough uncle has “something in his eye.” This is your cue to buy stock in Kleenex because almost every wedding party has their own #hashtag for social media, a pinnable wardrobe selection, and the desired ambiance of their special day carried through to EVERY <clap> SINGLE <clap> DETAIL <clap> and it will all come together to bring the even the most cynical guest to believe in true love. Though it makes the happy couple’s distinctive event the most intimate and special moment possible (I’m not crying, you’re crying), this new revelation has confused wedding planners, retailers, and guests alike who are all well adapted to the pattern of prior years monotonous matrimony. PEOPLE ARE SHOOK. “They are getting married in a barn? Will we have to sit on hay?!” and “I don’t know what to wear, this whole thing is weird” are
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common phrases I hear from attendees (and future mother-in-laws) who don’t get it. Oh, but when they see those barns decked out with chandeliers and glamour, do they recant! So whether you’re eloping, planning a countrybohemian-chic event, or doing something more out of the box that I haven’t even thought of yet (eeek!), this is me telling you PLAN ON, Girlfriend! Embrace your #HappilyEverAfter and Pin til’ you win! Millennial to millennial, this is a day that no one can argue that you are a special, exceptionally beautiful snowflake. Do you, baby! -Kassy Lauer, madlove by Paparazzi ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY 41
LOV E TO LAST A
Lifetime
LAUREN & BRIAN The year was 2000 when Lauren and Brian met as participants in the Little Mister and Miss Union County Fair pageant. Brian, hands full of dirt, made a bad impression on young Lauren who wanted anyone to win the pageant but him. As fate would have it, though Lauren did not get her wish and both were crowned winners. Fast forward 13 years, and Laurenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reluctance to like Brian wore off, and she and he began their courtship. After 3 years dating, Brian, now a farmer, proposed to Lauren in front of his family pond. She, of course, said yes, and after several months planning, they were married at St. Annâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Madisonville, Kentucky, in front of all their family and friends who had watched them grow up and grow in love for so long.
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Making Magic PHOTOGRAPHER Meghan Premuda Photography VENUE/RECEPTION St. Ann Catholic Church, Morganfield KY VIDEOGRAPHER Journey Home Films FLORAL Creative Touch Floral Design and Gifts DRESS House of White MAKE UP Katy Cusick Moody HAIR Ashley Rhea Hargrove CAKES/ CUPCAKES Darlena Jones
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FLORIST SPOTLIGHT
Zeidlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
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FLOWERS
ZEIDLERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FLOWERS Central: 2011 N. Fulton Ave. Evansville, IN 47710 East: 6240F E Virginia St. Evansville, IN 47715 (812) 402-1234 https://www.zeidlers.com/ https://www.facebook.com/zeidlersflowers/ Photos by Shillawna Ruffner
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Meant TO B E
SALLY & MAC Mac and Sally met in the Spring of 2013. To say opposites attract is true for the reserved Mac being drawn to the outgoing, vivacious Sally. After they began dating, Sally pursued her nursing degree in Indianapolis. As they navigated the burden of a year and half long-distance relationship, they knew that what they had was deeper than a fleeting romance. Once Sally moved back to the area, Mac popped the question in front of their close families and they began planning their beautiful wedding at Sacred Heart Church, where Macâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grandparents had also been married. Their reception at the Old Post Office exuded elegance and fun. The couple laughed and danced the night away, basking in the glow of candles and the love of being husband and wife.
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Making Magic PHOTOGRAPHER: Morgan Williams Photography PLANNING AND DECOR: Veronica Hamilton FLORIST: J’Petals CEREMONY VENUE: Sacred Heart RECEPTION VENUE: Old Post Office CATERING: Acropolis Catering CAKE: Rhonda Fehrenbacher DRESS AND JEWELRY: Fiancee Minot SUITS: Paul’s Menswear VIDEOGRAPHER: Eyenamics
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Adventure
THE
BEGINS
AMANDA & DAN Amanda and Dan met when they were just 15 years old, but it took 7 years for them to reconnect online and begin their romance. Both adventurous spirits, they wanted a wedding that conveyed their shared love of the outdoors with personal vintage touches that Amanda adores. Channeling her energy into creating a perfect mix of their Boho-Rustic style, Amanda designed and sourced all the dĂŠcor to infuse their wedding with just the right look. Whether incorporating European stag antlers or finding old metal containers with the perfect patina, she made sure everything reflected both her and Danâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s style. Their wedding was Them in every way.
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Making Magic PHOTOGRAPHER: Simply Savvy Photography VENUE: Hilltop Manor Inn DECOR: Mosaic Vintage CAKE: A Piece O’ Cake DRESS: The Dress Shop HAIR & MAKE UP: EV Artistry MENSWEAR: Men’s Wearhouse
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REHEARSAL DINNER
Rehearsal Dinner
INSPIRATION
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Get this Look PHOTOGRAPHER Rae Photography LOCATION& FOOD COMFORT by the Cross-Eyed Cricket
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Friends FOR L IF E
WHITNEY & ANDREW Whitney and Andrew met like many couples these days, both of their best friends were dating and they tagged along. Neither of them were looking for someone to date but Whitney found herself distracted by Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clear blue eyes while Andrew was drawn like a moth to a flame when Whitney entered a room. It took some time for Whitney to be convinced that dating Andrew would work, but he finally wore her down, and after their first date, they knew they had something deeper than simply a friendship. When Andrew proposed, Whitney knew she had found the man to weather lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ups and downs. They chose to have their wedding in the quaint town of New Harmony, and while an unexpected downpour changed their plans for an outdoor ceremony, the day was still the most beautiful time of love and laughs with their family and friends.
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Making Magic PHOTOGRAPHER SAK Photography VENUE New Harmony Inn Resort & Conference Center PLANNER RiverTop Events FLORAL & DECOR JoElle Elise Design DRESSES House of White MENSWEAR Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Menswear CAKE Pacetre SEATING RENTALS TRU Events VIDEOGRAPHER Walker Studios
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ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY EXCLUSIVE INSPIRATION
Fall
FOR THE LOVE OF
Produced and styled by Jodie Duncan at Higher Ground in New Haven Illinois Photographed by Stephanie Susie
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
S hout
I T TO THE
World!
WE NOW OFFER ENGAGEMENT AND WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENTS! SHOW OFF YOUR GORGEOUS ENGAGEMENT AND WEDDING PHOTOS AND ANNOUNCE YOUR LOVE TO THE WORLD! 4TH PAGE ANNOUNCEMENT: $200 | HALF PAGE ANNOUNCEMENT: $350
SHAWN & ELIZA MET Summer 2015 ENGAGED May 2018 SAYING “I DO” July 2019
Shawn and Eliza met through mutual friends in college. Both lovers of food, 80’s music and tacos, they plan to say “I do” in Henderson, KY in July of next year.
MIKE & ASHLEY MET Spring 2013 ENGAGED July 2018 SAYING “I DO” August 2019
Mike and Ashley met while both working on a Caribbean Cruise ship. Mike popped the question in the Grand Cayman islands under a thousand stars. They plan to marry next August in a destination wedding in Jamaica.
Share your love story! 4TH PAGE ANNOUNCEMENT $200 HALF PAGE ANNOUNCEMENT $350 Send us a short bio of yourselves along with 3-4 of your favorite photos and your photographer’s name to engagedrivervalley@gmail.com
ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT Tell us when you met, when you got engaged, and when and where your wedding will be. Also include a bio telling us a little about your story...where you met, what you love to do together, etc. No more than 25 words.
WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT Tell us when you met, when you got engaged, and when you got married. Also include a bio about how you met and
JOE & BRI MET November 2014 SAID “I DO” May 2016
a little about your wedding day. No more than 50 words.
JESSICA & DUSTIN MET Spring 2006 SAID “I DO” September 2018
After 8 years together, Dustin and Jessica tied the knot in a gorgeous backyard wedding in front of their closest friends and family in Evansville, Indiana. It was a day of fun, love and celebration. Photos by Shillawna Ruffner Photography
Joe and Bri married in a beautiful outdoor wedding in the country in front of their many friends and family from all over the country. Their ceremony was one of Faith, Love and vows to last forever.
Just Rennieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catering at the Old Post Office Enjoy the stunning architecture and convenient downtown location of the banquet facilities in Evansvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Old Post Office. Everything from wedding receptions and rehearsal dinners to corporate events for up to 350 people will be memorable at this historic site.
JustRennies.com Old Post Office 100 NW Second Street 812-401-8098 Download our smartphone app! All Photos By Jesse & Gena Photography
COCKTAILS
TIME TO
Mix it Up!
That’s right! Signature drinks are on the menu. This trend is here to stay, and what a fun way to get creative and show your personalities as a couple. Whether you like fruity drinks or more classic style, adding a signature drink to your bar menu is a great way to have liquor at your wedding without the fuss. Keep it limited to one or two signature drinks, and you will be dancing the night away with all of your guests. Coming up with fun names for each signature cocktail can be customized to your life as a couple. Go check out some signature cocktails from these local bars!
FIDEL’S Located upstairs from Walton’s in Haynes Corner. You can get there from inside the restaurant, or use the speak easy entrance around back. Open Thursdays 5pm-midnight and Fridays and Saturdays 5pm-2am. It can be rented out for your next private party up to 140 friends. It features a wide variety of bourbon, cigars, and cocktails. You can sit at the bar or any number of the lounge style nooks. From the décor to the bartenders attire, the atmosphere is a great mix of new modern with a nodes of a 1920’s speak easy. Contact Meredith at fidelsevents@gmail. com to set up your private party. 76 ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY
Click here to see the Behind the Scenes Video!
BRU BURGER Located in the Old Grey Hound bus station downtown you cannot miss this vibrant blue metal building. With seating indoors, upstairs and a courtyard space, this restaurant can accommodate all sorts of dinner parties. Best known for their mouth-watering burgers, they also have a variety of cocktails and local beers too! Open Sundays 11am-9pm, Monday-Thursday 11am-10pm, and Fridays-Saturdays 11am11pm. You will enjoy the atmosphere the instant you walk in the glass double doors. Call the hostess line at 812-3023005 to set up your reservation today.
MO’S HOUSE Located in Haynes corner across from Sauced Ball room. This “hip basement bar” is known for their old fashions and over the top private parties. Open Wednesday-Friday 3:30pm-midnight, Saturdays Noon-midnight, Sundays noon-8pm. Once you walk into the bar you are greeted with a smile like you are an old friend even if it is your first time being there! The cocktails you can get here change by season, but they have a few signature ones year-round as well. While you’re there check out the cocktails on tap, handmade ingredients paired with your favorite spirits. Currently they can hold small private parties, but soon they plan to expand to have more seating and larger parties to involve the community more. Call Mo at 812-401-3800 to set up your private party.
Recipes FIDEL’S BARTENDERSDEVIN MCBRIDE & CHARLES BAKER MEMBERS ONLY Take a pinch of cigar clippings and orange zest and torch for 8 secs then cover with glass. In a Yari mix: 1.5 oz bourbon, 0.5 oz elderflower, 0.25 oz sour mix, 4 dashes of rose water, 4 drops of orange bitters, shake; turn smoked glass over and add round rock ice, then strain mixture with julep strainer over smoked glass and ice. BLOOD ORANGE LEMONADE MOCKTAIL “SOMETHING NEW” In a highball glass add: 2 juiced lemons, 0.5 juice orange, 1 oz blood orange syrup, 1 oz simple syrup; Stir with ice and top with splash of lemon lime soda (sprite) and add orange wheel and mint to garnish. To convert into cocktail, add 1.5 oz of favorite spirit like Rum, Gin, or Vodka. BLOOD ORANGE BASIL MULE MOCKTAIL “MATRIMONY MULE” In a copper cup add: 2 muddled basil leaves, 0.5 lime. Next pack ice and add 0.75 oz of blood orange syrup, top with favorite Ginger beer. Garnish with lime wedge and basil leaf. To convert to cocktail, add 1.5 oz of Vodka. LAVENDER BASIL DAQUIRI “SOMETHING BLUE” In shaker add: 6 torn basil leaves, 1.5 oz of white rum, 0.75 oz of lavender syrup, and 0.5 lime; Shake slowly; Strain once into a glass, then strain again into frozen coupe (daquiri) glass. Garnish with basil leaf.
Recipes BRU BURGER BARTENDERMADELYN GEE “NO LONGER LONE RYDER” LONE RYDER In shaker add: 2 oz Rough Rider Rye (rye whiskey), 0.5 oz Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, 0.5 oz Fruitlab Orange Liqueur. Shake and pour over ice into cocktail glass, add Orange twist to garnish. OUTBOUND GREYHOUND In shaker add: 1.5 oz Hangar 1 (vodka); 0.5 oz Elderflower liqueur, equal parts ginger beer and grapefruit juice and splash of lime juice. Shake and pour over ice in cocktail glass.
Recipes MO’S HOUSE BARTENDERSJOHN RALEIGH & JACOB DIEHM MO’S DRAFT MANHATTAN 2 oz whiskey, 1 oz sweet vermouth, 2 dashes of house-made bitters, 0.5 oz orange liquor. When not making it on draft, pour into shaker with ice then pour mixture into martini glass. YELLOW DAISY: In shaker add: 2 oz Brokers Gin, 0.5 oz lemon juice, 5 oz Chartreuse liqueur, 0.25 oz agave nectar. Then shake and strain over fresh ice into cocktail glass. Garnish with lemon and mint spring. OLD-FASHIONED In an old fashion glass add: 1 raw sugar cube, 0.25 oz marasca syrup, 3 dashes of house-made bitters. Muddle mixture into liquid and all sugar is dissolved. Add ice, pour 2 oz of Ezra Brookes Rye Whiskey, Stir 35 times. Garnish with orange peed expressed and 2 skewered luxardo cherries. SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY This drink is seasoned cocktail makers and Mo’s House exclusive. In shaker add: 1 oz Fernet Branca, 1 oz whiskey, 1 oz peanut syrup, 1 egg white, and ice. Shake and strain over milkshake glass, top off with Coca-Cola. Garnish with mint spring. As drink stands the foam will come to the top and look like a milkshake.
VENDOR SPOTLIGHT
GardenGrove
EVENT CENTER
“Being from Southern Illinois, there were only a limited number of places to have your wedding, until NOW! You always hear how stressful it is to plan a wedding, and how mean and stressed the brides are, but I couldn’t imagine having a wedding anywhere else!” - Micah (former bride) Garden Grove Event Center is a one stop shop for all weddings and special events in Southern Illinois. Their main goal is helping you design and execute your perfect event, with little stress and many smiles. They keep it simple; they take your visions for your event and they help you turn them into reality. The owners Dirk Borgsmiller and Dr. Francis Tsung bought a multi use complex in 2003 with the plans to make Tennis and Soccer work. They quickly realized they were going to have to do more to keep the doors open and started taking on more services, sports lessons and started doing special events. In 2007 after doing a little bit of everything, they hired Melissa Ray Roach for Event Management and together, they started focusing on their strengths and eliminating the things that took up time and didn’t make sense business wise. Garden Grove was born and has been doing full-service weddings and events in Carbondale since 2012. What they found was as a company, they were really good at the hand holding process and worked on developing a culture that focused
on exceptional service by hiring only the best people to help execute that service. Melissa is now the Director of Development and Garden Grove Event Center and has a team of rock stars that help make everything possible. What you see today happened by accident but couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be more perfect. They now have three inside event venues with dedicated outdoor wedding spaces. Garden Grove Event Center is a one stop shop for all weddings and special events in Southern Illinois. Their main goal is helping you design and execute your perfect event, with little stress and many smiles. They keep it simple; they take your visions for your event, and they help you turn them into reality. To help you manage the many daunting details, they offer delicious in-house catering, professional staff to attend to your guests needs, and wedding coordinating services to make sure your day runs smoothly. Their staff is comprised of thoughtful, friendly, professional, and helpful people who understand the individual needs of your event. While they do love planning weddings and events at their venues, they also enjoy taking their knowledge and professionalism on the road, to help couples make their dream days come true at a venue of their choosing. Let them help you create so you can celebrate! Call them today for more information. 618-727-4436
LIVE MUSIC
SOUNDS OF YOUR
Big Day
Hiring a live musician can be a daunting task, but the Tri-State is filled with a plethora of talented professionals ready to fill your ceremony and/or reception with a wide array of tunes from soothing and classical to rock or cover ballads. To learn more about the booking process and what to expect day of, we interviewed four area musicians to get their take on how to bring your big day to life with the sound of live vocals and/or instruments.
She goes on to add that “Live music makes any ceremony so special. It allows you to depend on someone to fill in any unplanned silences and to cover when things go wrong (like that flower girl just not cooperating!). I do my best to make each wedding a personalized day of beauty, love, and music.”
NICK SMITH/SMITH AND ROME SMITHANDROME@GMAIL.COM WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/SMITHANDROME WHAT SERVICES DO THEY OFFER? Live music (acoustic guitar and singing) for ceremonies and receptions. HOW DID THEY GET INTO THE BUSINESS? “I started playing music with a few good friends at a few restaurants/bars in town, and some events for nonprofits around town, and it kind of built up from people hearing me through those.”
WEDDINGS BY LAUREN
FACEBOOK.COM/WEDDINGMUSICBYLAUREN WHAT DOES SHE OFFER? Full wedding ceremony music, coordination between multiple musicians, and piano, vocal, and organ services. HOW DID SHE GET INTO BUSINESS? “I have played the piano since I was five years old and started voice lessons when I was ten. I was asked to play for my first wedding at the age of twelve and never looked back. I loved the process of choosing music that means something to the couple and doing my best to provide the performance they desire.” WHAT IS HER PROCESS THE DAY OF? “I typically come to the rehearsal so any questions can be taken care of early. I like to be at the church around an hour and a half before the ceremony starts in order to set up any sound equipment and check microphone levels. If rehearsals with other musicians are required, I come early as well. For outdoor ceremonies, I do have a keyboard, microphones, and speaker system to accommodate.”
WHAT IS THEIR PROCESS THE DAY OF? “I generally meet up with the bride and groom in the weeks before the wedding (to go over the music selections) then arrive early the day of the wedding, to set up the audio equipment and sound check before the wedding.” Nick goes on to add, “I think having someone play live music at a wedding really helps make it memorable and special for the couple, and for everyone else in attendance. It kind of gives it a different atmosphere. It’s a great time!”
Photo by Tiffany York
Photo by Walker Studio
EMILY FIFE, HARPIST
WEBSITE: WWW.EMILYFIFEHARPIST.COM FACEBOOK: @EMILYFIFEHARPIST INSTAGRAM: KENTUCKY_HARPIST EMAIL: MRS.EMILYFIFE11@GMAIL.COM PHONE: 270-860-9354 WHAT DOES SHE OFFER? She is a wedding and special events harpist. HOW DID SHE GET INTO BUSINESS? “I started playing the harp at the age of 8. I have been playing the harp for 25 years. I started out playing background music at special events and evolved into playing weddings. It is now the most favorite part of the work I do as a harpist. I offer harp music for wedding ceremonies, for cocktail hours, and for dinners at weddings. I offer special packages for clients who book me for both the wedding and cocktail hours and/or for dinner.” WHAT IS HER PROCESS THE DAY OF? “For the day of the wedding ceremony. I play 30 minutes of prelude music, the processional, any additional music needed during the ceremony, and the recessional. I always make sure to play extra music after the recessional music has ended as guests are exiting the wedding.” Shes goes on to add, “I think the live music adds that extra touch of class and elegance to a wedding. There is nothing like live music. The harp is a great instrument for a wedding. While the harp has a delicate sound, I have a pickup that has been added to my harp, so I can be plugged in to any amplification system and the sound be projected. I mostly use this during cocktail hour, since that is naturally a louder time of a wedding.”
SOUTHERN INDIANA STRING QUARTET
HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/SISQEVV/ PHONE: 812-459-3696 WHAT DO THEY OFFER? Sarah Land shares, “We play a variety of events including wedding ceremonies, wedding receptions, holiday celebrations, birthday parties, family get togethers, etc.
HOW DID THEY GET INTO BUSINESS? Sarah goes on, “We got into the business back in 2011 when I noticed there weren’t a lot of string quartets in the Evansville area, but there was certainly a demand that I felt needed to be fulfilled. I was wanting to get back into playing after a short hiatus, and so I asked my sister, Leslie Baumgart (second violinist for the group), if she’d be interested in diving into this venture with me. After I convinced her to commit, we set out to find ourselves a first violinist and a cello. Once the quartet was formed, we spent many nights rehearsing in the garage my husband had set up as a recording studio. We went through hundreds of pieces and found what worked and what didn’t. A lot of playing with other musicians is about reading the other musicians, playing off what they’re doing with dynamics, bowings, etc., and being able to anticipate what’s coming. Once that integration is achieved the music and arrangements really start to flow well. We are blessed to have a very talented in house arranger, first violinist Rob Schnautz, who is able to take just about any piece of music and make it work for us as a string quartet. We strive to keep an up-to-date repertoire with not only classical pieces, but also songs from the top 40 charts, often being popular requests for weddings.” WHAT IS THEIR PROCESS THE DAY OF? “The process the day of is setting up, tuning, taking in our surroundings and making sure the little details are settled such as who is our cue person? Which member of the quartet can best see the wedding party walking down the aisle? Are we being mic’d? If so, we’ll have a conversation with the sound guy and go through necessary sound checks to be sure we are able to be heard.” Sarah goes on to add, “Our main goal is make sure the bride and groom are at ease and confident that we’re going to provide just the right soundtrack to their special day. A lot of that is handled prior to their actual wedding day, and this ensures a smooth experience for every one involved. We’ve learned to always be on our toes, prepare for the unexpected, and go with the flow. We work together to take cues from each other and from others, which is so important in making sure everything goes just as it should. Music is such an integral part of so many of the best experiences in life, evoking the emotions that create unforgettable moments. This is why we take our job very seriously and love watching how our music can make these moments come alive.”
FLOWER GIRLS
Dresses
TO MAKE YOU SMILE
For this issue, we collaborated with our friends from SMILE on Down Syndrome to model flower girl and junior bridesmaid dresses from Dillardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. As some of you may know, Engaged Managing Editor Nikki Davis is the executive director for SMILE and is currently in her 9th year with the organization. SMILE on Down Syndrome is committed to provide a network of support services to meet the physical, emotional, spiritual, social and educational needs of people of all ages with Down syndrome, their families and communities. They have also expanded a majority of their services to those with autism and other cognitive disabilities. Programming offered by SMILE includes their nationally award winning Art Smart program, a dance troupe, their adult program, parent networking opportunities and more. Their vision is that all people with Down syndrome will be loved, respected, and accepted as valuable members of families and communities.
86 ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY
To learn more about SMILE on Down Syndrome, visit: http://smileondownsyndrome.org Photo credit: Goad Photography Dresses: Dillardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
LOCAL WINE
Hit the Road
FOR A TASTE OF LOCAL WINE
French Lick Winery
West Baden Springs, IN Huber’s Orchard & Winery Borden, IN
Winzerwald Winery Bristow, IN
Mystique Winery Winery llow Ho IN Lynnville, Monkey St Meinrad, IN
Turtle Run Winery Corydon, IN
Boucherie Vineyards & Winery Spottsville, KY Cafe Farmer and Frenchman Winery & Robards, KY Purple Toad Winery Paducah, KY
Wineries are all the rage for bachelorette to couples outings, and we are lucky to live in an area that offers so many wonderful locations to get your grape on! This whimsical illustrated map by Bobbi Hammonds of 5 Pink Peonies takes you on your own River Valley Wine Trail. So grab a glass and hit the road to enjoy a day of wining and dining. ©
ADVERTISER DIRECTORY
5 PINK PEONIES Facebook @5PinkPeonies Etsy.com/5PinkPeonies www.My5Girls.com AMBASSADOR TRAVEL 5236 Vogel Rd Evansville, IN 47715 812.479.8687 www.MyAmbassadorTravel.com BAR LOUIE 7700 Eagle Crest Blvd Evansville, IN 47715 812.476.7069 BAUERHAUS 13605 Darmstadt Road Evansville, IN 47725 812.867.3169 www.thebauerhaus.com BAUERHAUS CATERING 13605 Darmstadt Road Evansville, IN 47725 812.759.9000 www.bauerhauscatering.com BAUERHAUS PASTRY 13605 Darmstadt Road Evansville, IN 47725 812.867.3588 www.bauerhauspastry.com BAUER’S TENTS AND PARTY RENTALS 13607 Darmstadt Rd Evansville, IN 47725 812.867.1040 www.bauerstents.com BOB DAVIS STATE FARM 2727 N First Avenue Evansville, IN 47710 812.491.7888 www.evansville.sf Facebook @agentbobdavis CATERING BY MEYER 6655 S Old Rd. 162 Huntingburg, IN 47542 812.367.1690 www.cateringbymeyer.com bbrown@cateringbymeyer.com jfeltner@cateringbymeyer.com DAILY’S ANNEX BAKERY 812.423.0320 www.daily’s-bakery.net Facebook @Daily’s Annex Bakery ELOPE AT THE OLD COURTHOUSE www.IDoattheOCH.com
ESTHER BLOOM PHOTOGRAPHY Laura Rush/ Owner 618.559.7134 laura@estherbloom.com www.estherbloom.com FLOWERS & MORE 1000 W Franklin St Evansville, IN 47710 812.424.8931 www.flowersandmorein.com GOAD PHOTO katie@goadphoto.com www.goadphoto.com Facebook @goadphotography Instagram @goadphoto HAYNIE TRAVEL 812.477.8833 www.haynietravel.com info@haynietravel.com IMPULSE SALON & SPA 428 W Jennings Street Newburgh, IN 47630 812.858.5554 www.impulsehair.com Facebook @ ImpulseNewburgh JOELLE ELISE DESIGN www.joelleelisedesign.com Facebook @joelleelisedesigns Instagram @joelleelisedesign joelleelisedesign@gmail.com JUST RENNIE’S CATERING & COOKIE CO. 100 SE 4th St Evansville, IN 47708 812.401.8098 www.justrennies.com JUST YOUR STYLE EVENT RENTALS 812.453.5841 Facebook @ justyourstyleeventrentals KNOB HILL HOUSE 812.499.8880 1024 Hwy 662 Newburgh, IN www.knobhillhouse.com knobhillhouse@gmail.com LIST WITH NIKKI EVV 812.449.4118 Facebook- @listwithnikkievv nikkidavis@fctuckeremge.com http://www.listwithnikkievv.com
LUSH ESTHETICS AND BOUTIQUE 506 E. 4th St. Huntingburg, IN 47542 812.684.0018 Facebook @thelush506 NICK T. ARNOLD JEWELERS 3630 Frederica St. Owensboro, KY 42301 270.686.8463 www.shopnta.com Facebook @NickTArnoldJewelers NORDHOFF PRODUCTIONS 812.556.0002 www.nordhoffproductions.com OBJ DESIGN Jane Elpers, CERP 14101 Big Cynthiana Road Evansville, IN 47720 C: 812.499.2331 O: 812.480.6767 PIECE OF CAKE 20 Main Street Evansville, IN 47708 812.424.CAKE (2253) www.pieceofcakebakery.com THE PROGRESSIVE IMAGE 201 NW 4th St Evansville, IN 47708 812.589.1548 www.theprogressiveimage.com RAE PHOTOGRAPHY www.raephotos.com Facebook @rae.photos Instagram @raephotography_andierae RAPP-OWEN GRANARY 413 Granary Street New Harmony, IN 47631 812.682.3050 www.rappowengranary.com RIBEYRE GYMNASIUM 603 Main Street New Harmony, IN 47631 812.682.3050 Facebook - Ribeyre Gymnasium Restoration Group ROOFLESS CHURCH 420 North Street New Harmony, IN 47631 812.862.3050 www.robertleeblafferfoundation.org SANDER CATERING 812.634.1018 www.sandercatering.net
SHILLAWNA RUFFNER PHOTOGRAPHY 619.947.9561 shillawna@yahoo.com www.shillawnaruffner.com Facebook @ shillawnaruffnerphotography STELLAR MEDIA 812.602.9733 www.stellarmediacreative.com SWEETWATER EVENT CENTER 8335 Eagle Lake Drive Evansville, IN 47715 812.402.3435 www.sweetwatereventcenter.com Facebook @SweetH2OEVV THRALL’S OPERA HOUSE 612 Church Street New Harmony, IN 47631 812.682.3050 www.indianamuseum.org/explore/ newharmony TOUCH OF HOME CATERING 510 Main St. New Harmony, IN 812.480.0310 www.touchofhomecatering.com TRAVEL SMART 812.867.0022 www.choosetravelsmart.com UNITED FIDELITY BANK Various locations in Evansville, Mt. Vernon, and Newburgh 812.424.0921 (main office) www.unitedfidelity.com ZEIDLER’S FLOWERS 812.421.1234 www.zeidlersweddings.com Facebook @zeidlersflowers SUPERBRIDE SUNDAY www. superbridesunday.com Facebook @ SuperBrideSundayEvansville FERDINAND PROM & BRIDAL EXPO 2018 812-367-1953 Facebook@ FerdinandPromandBridalExpo
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@ENGAGEDRIVERVALLEY
@ENGAGEDRIVERVALLEY
@ENGAGEDRV
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