La Bella Bride magazine

A m a L a V i d a (Live Life, Love Life!)

100s

of event design ideas for every couple's budget

The Return to Romance Issue: + Real Love Stories from

Brides Around the World

+ Fashion trends from Randy

of TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress”

+ La Bella Bride's

LITTLE WHITE BOOK

Presents the

2010 Wedding Showcases Intimate Boutique Bridal Events: Newport Wedding Showcase

January 10, 2010 at the Hotel Viking

Boston Wedding Showcase

February 28, 2010 at the Omni Parker House

Featuring: * Bridal Salon with wedding professional booths and seminars.

* Invitation to Saturday Night Vendor

Networking Party to meet one on one with wedding professionals and/or stay overnight.

* Grooms Lounge * Fashion Soiree Fashion Show

and so much more!

Pre-order your tickets at LaBellaBride.com or call 401.946.0009

Want a daily taste of La Bella Bride?

Be sure to check out our blogazine for daily posts about planning, event ideas, love stories and more at LaBellaBride.com. Friend Us or Follow Us on Facebook® and Twitter® as well!

main event weddings

And Brides…

the luxury included

honeymoon

If marriages are made in heaven, then honeymooning at Sandals is like heaven on earth – because no other resorts in the world are so completely dedicated to two people in love. Every possible land and water sport – even scuba diving and golf – is included for your enjoyment. Great chefs from around the world prepare scintillating ■

®

menus for your dining pleasure. And best of all, everything is included so you need only think of each other. You can even choose a lavish suite with an obliging personal butler. And for the ultimate in pampering, step into a Red Lane® Spa,* exclusively at Sandals. So choose Sandals because happily ever after begins here.

Ask about the WeddingMoon® by Sandals offer when booking.

Luxury Included

THE

J A M A I C A

World Wise Travel Honeymoon Specialist wwtvl@yahoo.com 800-989-6888

Honeymoon Expo Center

sue@honeymoonexpocenter.com 877-868-7283  Free

A N T I G U A

® ®

HONEYMOON

S T .

L U C I A

Romantic Honeymoons & Destination Weddings

E-Z Travel Meeting/ Event Planning

Adler Travel

The Travel Center/Tzell N.E.

roctravelgroup@aol.com 800-466-0444 info@adlertravel.com 800-598-2648

info@e-ztravel.org 203-446-9150 paula@tvlctr.com 888-881-1160

B A H A M A S

Travelworks

lgg.travelworks@snet.net 203-284-2300

Exclusively Honeymoons

info@exclusivelyhoneymoons.com 860-349-6841

Bernardini Travel

joan@bernardinitravel.com 203-795-5444

for concierge level guest or higher for stays of 6 nights or longer. Golf not available at all resorts. *Spa services additional. Unique Vacations, Inc. is the worldwide representative for Sandals Resorts.

■

sara zarrella photography

kim praast photography

Design Ideas & Features

main event weddings

table

sara zarrella photography

of contents {1}

14 {Tabletops } Return to Romance 48 {Catering} For the Love of Food 64 Organic Farming How your wedding can impact the earth.

68 {Floral } Colors for All Seasons 92 La Bella’s Little White Book 1 00 {Invitations} Send It in Style 106 {Cakes} The Sweetest Thing 120 {Fashion} The Fashionable Bride 162 Keep the Passion‌ Boost the Romance Make your new life together as romantic as possible.

166 The Language of Love Creating meaningful and romantic wedding vows.

168 Wise Tips from Registry Experts Get the best out of your most wanted list.

2

main event weddings

A directory of advertisers.

The

C

h a n l e r at

C

liff

W

alk

Come through our gates to the wedding of your dreams. Our historic mansion, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean offers unique accommodations, gourmet cuisine and memorable service. The ideal location for an intimate elopement or a grand affair. The only Newport facility that offers “Exclusive Use.�

117 Memorial Boulevard, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | 401-847-1300 | www.thechanler.com

Departments

nadra edgerly photography

table

brea mcdonald photography

db photography

of contents {11}

1 38 {La Bella Loves} Style 147 {La Bella Loves} Men 148 {La Bella Loves} Home 170 {Honeymoon} The Eye of the Beholder Extravagant to affordable honeymoon destinations

4

elegant bliss photography

Love Stories from Brides like you!

8 Ama & Tariq

10 Amanda & Steve

42 Vanessa & Kevin

44 Meghan & David

46 Corey & Andrew

94 Heather & Chad

96 Lauren & Ian

98 Kellie & Anthony 114 Shelby & Matthew 116 Kassiane & Michael 142 Andrea & Matthew 144 Elizabeth & Nicholas 154 Christin & Kane 156 Marjan & Matthew 158 Erika & Matthew 160 Talia & Scott

5

www.LaBellaBride.com Steven J. LaFazia

{Publisher and Founder}

allegro photography

Letter from the Editor Katina Isabella LaFazia

{Editor In Chief and Founder}

R. Scott LaFazia

{Executive Editor}

Karen Bibo

Colleen Duffy, Rachel Parisi, Ann Petronio {Advertising Sales Associates}

Phoebe Brueckner, Lindsey Aspinall Getz, Nayda Rondon, Steven Sears, E. Bingo Wyer {Contributing Writers}

Missy Lorant

{Contributing Copy Editor}

Kassie LaFazia

{Online Content Manager}

J. Hogue, James Re

{Senior Art Directors}

Josie Morway, Julie Clarke {Associate Designers}

Highchair designhaus

{Website & Advertising Design}

Tonia Mahotiere, Maryam Jones {Office Interns}

R. Scott LaFazia {Legal Counsel}

Please patronize the advertisers in this magazine. Without their support, the valuable service provided through this publication would not be available to you.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced for any reason without written permission from the publisher. LaBella Bride Magazine does not make any representation about the quality of any products, services, information or the materials purchased via use of this publication. LaBella Bride Magazine accepts no responsibility for advertisers and printers errors. All submissions are published assuming that they are properly authorized to be published. Prices in editorial were quoted as estimates/averages only. Prices will vary according to individual design. Specific designers may elect not to disclose pricing.

Your ideas and suggestions are always welcome.

Please send them to: Publisher La Bella Bride Magazine 1635 Cranston Street Cranston, Rhode Island 02920 401.946.0009 Copyright 2010, All Rights Reserved.

K LaFay Publishing, Inc. Cover: Photographer: Michelle Carpenter, Main Event Weddings Hair and Makeup: Artworx Tux: Carl Anthony Tuxedo Bridal Gown: Alexandra’s Boutique Models: A Beauty Within Veil: Couture Bridal

6

Dear Reader, Perhaps an economic shake up reminds us what really matters: true love and commitment. What else do you need to muscle through life’s great challenges?

As we celebrate La Bella’s Return to Romance issue, you’ll savor lush linens and real satin, English garden styled florals, low flickering candles and thoughtfully designed tabletops, many with a near monochromatic palette. Thankfully, reception fussiness is gone in 2010, along with the evil spirit of excessive spending that shrieks, “Can you top this?” Coziness and intimacy return with comfortable table settings that permit guests to chat informally. La Bella Bride offers a range of design budgets to help readers plan more effectively.

What other trends to look for? Thankfully, today’s couples are increasingly interested in leaving less of a carbon foot print.

Many seek caterers where menus are based on food sources within a 100 mile radius of the wedding. Isn’t that terrific? One such innovator, New York’s famous Great Performances Catering represents a commitment to celebrating local flavors while supporting sustainable agriculture and good earth practices. Read how they do it via their exciting Katchkie Farm on page 64.

Old world romantic venues continue to be in great demand. In this issue we chose among the best. As backdrops for sumptuous table designs. you’ll see why Newport’s The Chanler at Cliff Walk , Connecticut’s Lord Thompson Manor , The Pitcher Inn in

Vermont and Boston’s Omni Parker House

elevate romantic elegance to world class levels. Savvy couples from Manhattan increasingly seek Wave Hill , a popular beautiful arboretum with sweeping views of the The Hudson River; this turn of the century romantic charm starts on page 14.

More than other magazines, we celebrate a potpourri of true love stories from around the world. Our couples typify a wide cross section of backgrounds, proving “love comes in all types of packages.” We’ve even included a romantic interlude from Italy.

This issue of La Bella Bride will be soft launched on a national distribution stage. Our hopes are to produce a 2011 National LB issue.

Also new to the world of La Bella Bride is our Blogazine, our blog with daily tastes of LB. Since La Bella Bride readers always surprise us by their willingness to share, why not tell us how you plan to imbue your 2010 wedding with an exceptional romantic twist? Write us at www.labellabride.com.

In the meantime, we send you our romantic best wishes. And lots of…

Amore,

Katina LaFazia, Editor in Chief

sara zarrella photography

{Office Management Coordinator}

ultima photography & video james hazelwood photography

Private Estate Masterpiece Architecture On-Site Catholic Chapel Panoramic Waterview European Chef

836 Warwick Neck Avenue, Warwick, Rhode Island | aldrichmansion.com | (401) 739-6850

LOVE STORY

8

A

ma and Tariq started dating while in college in Boston and from there it seemed a natural, easy progression. They moved in together and every day of shared experiences drew them closer and closer, happy in the certainty that their love was strong and true.

While sure of their relationship, the proposal came as a total surprise to Ama. “We were home on a Saturday morning cleaning up our apartment.

He asked me to come check out a box that he found under the bed. I opened it and found a smaller old box inside.

He acted really surprised with this mystery box.” Ama, feeling a bit uneasy and uncertain about the contents that might be inside, hesitantly lifted the lid. “I slowly opened the box and voila – the ring! I was not expecting a beautiful ring to be in such an old, tattered box.”

Like the couple themselves, the wedding and reception were relaxed, casual and made memorable by the magic of simple moments. It shone with the expectation of good things to come. “It was rainy the day before and the forecast for the wedding day said showers. But the night before the wedding, Tariq told me that our

wedding day would be sunny and when I woke up, it was very sunny,” says Ama, remembering the sense of rightness and calmness that permeated their special day. Instead of panic, nerves and last-minute running around, there was an intimate, easy feel to the whole day. “I gave Tariq a haircut the morning of our wedding and it allowed us to have some one-on-one time,” she shares.

The day’s theme was “celebration,” notes Ama. The ceremony was a brief stand-up reception on a hill behind the house. This was followed by a reception under a clear tent on the front lawn with approximately 50 guests in attendance.

Ama looked lovely and serene.

Made by her sister, Ama’s wedding gown was of satin and Chantelle lace adorned with a pretty green satin sash.

Tariq, handsome and smiling, wore a sand-colored linen suit with a pale green polo shirt. They did not have a wedding party entourage.

When it was all over and they looked into each other’s eyes, the memories glowed brightly. “We’ll always want to re-live our “I do” vows… the time we spent with family members... the whole wedding!”

I was not expecting a beautiful ring to be inside an old, tattered box…

P h otog ra p he r

Jocelyn Filley filleyphotography.com R ec e pt io n S i te

Private Home

9

LOVE STORY

10

other over the roar of the chopper and their noise-cancelling headphones, no words were necessary as Steven pulled out a ring and slipped it on Amanda’s finger while they hovered over the Statue of Liberty.

The pair’s summer ceremony was held in the Houghton Chapel of Wellesley College, Amanda’s alma mater. The signature color was pink with both soft pink and gold accents,

home with a delicious favor of individually packaged strawberry shortcake cupcakes from Sweet, a popular Boston bakery.

The special day is still fresh in both Steven and Amanda’s minds, and they both say it included everything they could have dreamed. “For me, exchanging our vows was the most memorable moment,” says Amanda.

“We exchanged traditional vows that

It’s like time stopped… and I wanted that moment to last forever. and the bridesmaids wore J Crew gowns in hot pink. Following the ceremony, guests traveled to The Colonnade Hotel in Boston. During the cocktail hour, the couple, along with their immediate family members, participated in a tea ceremony to honor their heritage. “I wore the same hen Steven first laid eyes dress my mother had worn at her own on Amanda at a friend’s tea ceremony,” says Amanda. “It was a barbeque, he was left beautiful pink cheongsam, which is a speechless. He admits that he fumbled traditional Chinese dress.” his way through their first conversaThe reception kicked off in the tion. “I just thought she was so Colonnade’s ballroom, which was beautiful – I found myself stuttering a made all-the-more impressive with lot,” he says. Though Steven would fuchsia up-lighting that bathed the soon be moving to New York to whole room in a pink glow. The pursue a job opportunity the pair centerpieces were a combination of spent a lot of time together before he tall and short flower arrangements left. “We had a lot in common and with lush pink and red flowers. Guests shared a lot of the same values, so we enjoyed a delicious menu that began decided to give long distance a try,” with a day boat scallop appetizer, recalls Steven. “Though I obviously topped with a fried quail egg. The hadn’t told her, within the first week main entree was a duet of filet mignon of hanging out I believed Amanda was and herb-crusted halibut. “We had the woman I’d marry.” Over the next asked the hotel to create a customized two years, while Amanda finished menu for our guests as they do not school at Wellesley College, the couple traditionally offer a duet option,” says continued with their long-distance Amanda. “The combination was relationship. perfect.”

When the right time came, Steven Following dinner, the couple’s wanted his proposal to be memorable, five-tiered wedding cake was served. It so he rented a private helicopter for featured raspberry filling with a white an evening tour of Manhattan. butter cream frosting. And as if that Though the couple couldn’t hear each weren’t enough, guests were sent

W

couples all over the world exchange but it was such a powerful moment saying those words while looking at Steven. It really solidified the fact that I was marrying my best friend. And when I was looking at him, it felt as though nobody else was in the room.”

“It’s like time stopped,” agrees Steven.

“It was just me and Amanda, in that moment and I wanted that moment to last forever.”

P h otog ra p he r

BKB Photography bkbphoto.com F low e r s

Atmosphere & Floral Design by Tammy Becker tammybecker.com R ec e pt io n

The Colonnade Hotel colonnadehotel.com ca ke d e s i gn e r

The Icing on The Cake theicingonthecake.com V id eog ra p he r

InFocus Video & Photo infocusvideo.org ev e nt d eco r

RC Uplighting rcuplighting.com g r oom’s at ti re

Calvin Klein calvinklein.com 11

LAWRENCE FRANK PHOTOGRAPHY

DAVID FOX PHOTOGRAPHY

SABRINA SCOLARI PHOTOGRAPHY

SABRINA SCOLARI PHOTOGRAPHY

KIMBERLY PRAAST PHOTOGRAPHY

LAWRENCE FRANK PHOTOGRAPHY

�he� Now

  

…

. /   ., ,   / ..

Return

TO Romance

Details and designs for elegant and intimate tabletops‌

14

If

you choose to believe the words of Henry David Thoreau (and we do!) it’s wise to remember: “It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.” So, what do we see when we gaze into the future?

La Bella Bride clearly sees a Return to Romance everywhere! Contour lines are curvy, and fabric flows more loosely, too. Linens are richer, both in color and in embroidered details. No more cookie-cutter-perfectly-matched decor!

Thankfully, large boring globes of roses have vanished. Napkins, votive candles, stemware, even flatware, take on a quirky-styled individuality. Pink prosecco on a table? Why not! Butterflies alight everywhere, as if they, too, received a special invitation.

In 2010, look for incredibly lush florals, loosely arranged in vibrant and varied colors. Round tables, the most efficient dining experience, may still predominate but other shapes emerge.

Why not think serpentine, square, oblong, or even slim long banquets as a different means to bring your dining celebration to a new exciting level? Mix up napkin colors, even linen designs, as you seek inspiration from a variety of creative sources. The new romantic design seems to suggest: Let go a bit!

Surrender—surprise yourself, and surprise your guests!

– E. Bingo Wyer

designer:

Chestnuts In The Tuileries

location: Wave

Hill Event Weddings rental items: Broadway Party Rentals linens: Wildflower Linens photo: Main

The essence of romanticism is captured through the elegant tones and delicate details. A Whimsical tree growing from a mound of lush and abundant blooms sitting atop a beaded jade linen and accessorized with cut crystal glasses and silver mercury candle sticks create a fresh and enchanted look. Scattered silk butterflies and soft pink lisianthus blossoms hanging from the tree add a natural, yet playful accent to the overall table design. $1750

15

TABLETOPS @ Spotlight on ^

Wave Hill bronx , NY

With views of the Hudson River and the dramatic Palisade cliffs, wealthy millionaires from 19th-century Manhattan were drawn to Riverdale, a summer retreat only a few minutes north of the city. There they built mansions and one, called Wave Hill, is now a 28-acre spectacular Eden that offers exquisite blooms, grand beech and oak trees shading verdant rolling lawns, and carved benches that dot pathways. The lushly planted elegant pergola, with its majestic river view, is where most couples exchange vows. Elegant receptions, inside Armour Hall with it’s carved wooden ceiling and grand scale, can accommodate up to 180 guests. In the distance, the George Washington Bridge sparkles brighter than a Harry Winston necklace.

designer:

Cote Fleurie Studio

location: Wave

Hill Event Weddings rental items: Broadway Party Rentals accessories: Grove Boutique photo: Main

The high romanticism of a lush constable landscape transported indoors via baby green and schneebel hydrangea, arranged in 18th c. sterling bowl. Smaller arrangements of bluebird roses, panticulata white, belvedere alstromeria, serenade blue mini asters, feathery green musgo. Tiny champagne grapes and chilled pink prosecco with cut crystal goblets. Price upon request.

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designer:

Raina Dawn Events Castle & Pierpont

location: Wave

Hill Event Weddings rental items: Broadway Party Rentals candles & accessories: Castle & Pierpont furniture rental: Ruth Fischl table number cards & menu cards: Haute Papier photo: Main

Eight foot modern white lacquered table covered with mirror tiles through the center and finished with mercury glass vases and blown glass apothecary jars filled with roses, dahlias, orchids, anthurium, hydrangea, ferns and other foliage candles.

Price available upon request.

17

TABLETOPS

designer:

SD Events

location: Omni

Parker House Doke Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited photo: Dan

Elegant French Provence in a sophisticated setting. Rich golden accents juxtaposed by bright yellow florals. $1900

designer:

David Price

location: The

Chanler Hazelwood Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited photo: James

By elevating the serpentine table for guest seating, it adds a whimsical feel to an otherwise traditional look of damask fabrics, classic roses, hydrangeas and orchids. $1300

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designer:

Dana Markos Events

location: Omni

The flowers become lighter in color as the eye

Parker House photo: Dan Doke Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited

casts upward to mark Spring rising, and at the

Inspired by Bouguereau’s Return of Spring: Steel

tulips, blue majesty hydrangea, cymbidium

gray linens represent the stillness of winter

orchids, dendrobium orchid, lavender lilacs and

while the crystal represent the thaw of winter.

lavender roses. Price available upon request.

pinnacle, branches begin to bud. Pink peonies, white hydrangea, curly willow, tulips, french

19

TABLETOPS @ Spotlight on ^

the Chanler N e w p o r t, r i

A coastal setting makes any wedding magical. Newport RI offers the most spectacular coastline and The Chanler on Cliff Walk offers the idyllic site for a fairytale wedding. Elegant interiors attract couples who wish to imbue their reception with classic romanticism. Up to 200 guests are easily accommodated by a tented gathering on the verdant lawn. This exceptional venue is perfect for more intimate weddings of 100 or fewer guests. One night in the Federal Room, with a small fireplace, snuffs out any stress. Other guests opt for the legendary suites: The opulent Renaissance Suite with its gold leaf ceiling, rooftop deck and sunken tub surrounded by columns; or the Peonies & Ivy garden villa, made memora-

designer:

Toni Chandler

deck. Bathrooms also set The Chanler apart

Chanler Hazelwood Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited

with details such as embossed bathroom

Crisp summer green and bright white set the

tissue to radiant heating in the floor tiles.

stage for this modern romantic table setting.

ble by its hand-painted sleigh bed and French doors opening to a sweeping ocean view

location: The photo: James

Turquoise crystal pedestals hold the wedding white flowers that include lilies, sweet pea, dogwood blooms, pecrey and lily of the valley. $1500

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TABLETOPS

designer:

Perennial Studio

location: The

Pitcher Inn Zarrella Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited accessories: Theabault Design

photo: Sara

Asian Flair with peonies, mango callas, orchids, sum and substance hosta, solomon’s seal, and serafina accents in a butterfly motif vessel. $800

designer:

The Blue Toad

location: The

Pitcher Inn Zarrella Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited

photo: Sara

An elegant rustic table brought to life with cotton linens, vintage-inspired china, timeless crystal, and a branched urn filled with moss. An overflowing arrangement of beautiful garden roses, Queen Anne’s lace, lisianthus, thistle stock, hydrangea and locally grown peonies, accented by herbs and grapevines. Individual pots of moss in rustic containers finish the design. $825

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DAN DOKE PHOTOGRAPHY

when your event must be exceptional

Tailored Event Synchronization & Sophisticated Transformations.

Visit us at simpledetailsevents.com p: 617.916.5453

f: 617.916.1203

TABLETOPS @ Spotlight on ^

Omni parker house b o s to n , M A

Parker House rolls? Boston Cream pie? These two delicious food classics were introduced into the American vernacular by Boston’s world class Omni Parker House Hotel. President John F. Kennedy announced his run for Congress here — but he also proposed to his future wife Jackie here, extending the hotel’s exciting reputation as “the place” for politicians and celebrities alike. Your wedding guests will love the hotel’s proximity to Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Quincy Market and prestigious Beacon Hill. But all who breeze through its famous sculpted bronze doors, choose the Omni Parker House for its attention to details, exceptional service and luxurious atmosphere. The oldest continuously operated hotel in the country, historical literary figures such as William Wadsworth Longfellow, Ralph Waldo Emerson and Oliver Wendell Holmes hosted club meetings here and novelist Edith Wharton used the Omni Parker House for a romantic backdrop in her Age of Innocence classic.

designer:

Unique Weddings by Alexis location: Omni

Parker House Doke Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited

photo: Dan

Turquoise and mango colors provide a powerful yet playful backdrop for this modern and elegant theme: Mirage chairs softened with broach-adorned pillows, playfulness exemplified with the bright candy-filled vessels. Florals include marako orchids, tulips and roses. $1300

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The Most Memorable Day of Your Life Deserves an Equally Memorable Place

At the Omni Parker House, we can make your wedding as magical as you imagined.

Host your reception in our Rooftop Ballroom overlooking the Boston skyline or in our historic Press Room that has welcomed luminaries such as John F. Kennedy.

Our timeless charm also includes beautiful accommodations and exceptional catering services for virtually any size affair.

For more information, please call 617-227-8600 or visit omniparkerhouse.com.

6 0 S c h o o l St re e t B o sto n , M A S i n ce 1 8 5 5

TABLETOPS

designer:

Flora Latte

location: The

Pitcher Inn Sara Zarrella Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited

photo:

“Tres-Rosé” Romantic candle light setting with garden roses, accompanied by hydrangea, peonies, clematis vine, lady’s mantle and euphorbia. $1200

26

designer:

Events By Sharon’s Daughter

location: Omni

Parker House Doke Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited floral: Orchids ‘n’ Blooms photo: Dan

Luxe French blue bengaline linen covers this 8’ banquet table and is topped with lush floral arrangements of hydrangea, roses, and cymbidium orchids in ivory. Crystal teardrop lamps, silver beaded charges, and silver grandeur glassware. $1200

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TABLETOPS designer:

Storied Events

location: The

@ Spotlight on ^

the pitcher inn wa r r en , V t

Pitcher Inn Zarrella Photography rental items: Wedding Tents and Events floral centerpiece: Blomma Flicka Flowers linens: BBJ Linen photo: Sara

Table designed with mid-summer rustic elegance with vibrant palette of yellow, plum, orange and peach highlighted by summer’s fruit and cherry tomatoes. The centerpiece is composed with scabiosa, pansy, tulip, clematis vine, dahlia peony, foxglove, sun-gold tomatoes, nasturtium, garden roses, lisianthus, begonia, and day lily. The buttercup lamour tablecloth complemented with Genève overlay and lamour seat cushions. $1200

The Pitcher Inn has been welcoming guests since the early 1850s. Originally a simple Vermont country inn where weary travelers venturing over three treacherous mountain paths would stop, today’s inn is a luxurious retreat and beautiful venue for a perfect New England wedding. Located in the charming village of Warren, time has imbued the venue with legendary hospitality and grace.

Each guest room features a unique slice of Vermont’s special character! Nestled in the heart of the historic Green Mountains, the Inn sits at the foot of Sugarbush Resort, known for its European ambiance and world class year round sports.

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Full service wedding planning Wedding day coordination Custom wedding design Assisting throughout New England Specializing in out-of-state couples

KC MAHESHWARY PHOTOGRAPHY

WWW.HBTPHOTO.COM

GRAZIER PHOTOGRAPHY

GRAZIER PHOTOGRAPHY

Past President of the Boston Wedding Group & Member of the Association of Bridal Consultants, International Special Events Society & Better Business Bureau.

ACCREDITED BRIDAL CONSULTANT

www.weddingsbyalexis.com alexis@weddingsbyalexis.com 617.833.5661

TABLETOPS

designer:

Planned to Perfection

location: The

Chanler Hazelwood Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited floral arrangement: Conceptual Image Design name cards: Felicia’s Bridal photo: J ames

Chivari ballroom chairs with tangerine cushions complement tangerine napkins and chestnut linens. Gold-rimmed glasses and chargers complete this look. Each place setting is detailed with an orange coral snap dragon and champagne shimmer menu card. $750

designer:

Rountree Flowers

location: Wave

Hill Event Weddings rental items: Broadway Party Rentals photo: Main

A structured “Hedge” of roses, delphinium and lisianthus rises from a low bed of Spanish moss and velvety dusty miller foliage. Velvet ribbon in two shades of pink accents the tall glass candle sticks. The chair backs and candlesticks are embellished with more nest-like Spanish moss. “Moonglow” crystal organza with “Squiere Bone” windowpane overlay highlights a pink glass dinner plate. A white linen napkin, white charger and chair offset the gray chair cushion. $900

30

TABLETOPS

designer:

Datura a Modern Garden location: Lord Thompson

Manor Filley Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited linen: BBJ Linen

photo: Jocelyn

A shower of leonidas rose petals is reflected in our amber glass plates, sleek pilsner vases and lucite chairs. The reversed satin linen in seafoam, gold and tangerine provide the perfect backdrop for unexpected accents of lavender, copper and blueberry. Cymbidium orchids in bronze grace the chairs and napkins. $1650

designer:

KM Design Studio

location: The

Chanler Hazelwood Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited photo: J ames

Fruitwood chivari chairs surrounding cotton sage table linen with natural hemstich overlay. Rattan charger with antique floral toile pattern adorned with birds nest and place cards. Silver rimmed stemware and brushed stainless steel cutlery. Crystal cake stand holding a wooden white washed birdcage filled with antique hydrangea, purple heather, and Queen Anne’s lace floral. Pewter candle holders with tapered candles and monogrammed candles with silver lettering. $1700

JAMES HAZELWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

Elegant seclusion nestled on the banks of the Sakonnet.

Portsmouth, RI (401) 683.4177 glenmanorhouse.com

TABLETOPS

@ Spotlight on ^

Lord Thompson Manor Thompson, CT

Often weddings entail an entire weekend and that’s why The Lord Thompson Manor is one of Connecticut’s preferred venues for couples who wish their guests to arrive, settle in, and enjoy a true retreat — spa, picnics barbecue, rehearsal dinner, full wedding receptions, after parties, quiet strolls, bocce games, and practically whatever your heart desires. The rolling grounds are New England classic beautiful with landscaping designed by 19th century landscape genius Frederick Law Olmstead. The beautiful manor home offers a quiet, relaxed and unhurried atmosphere that only a beautiful country setting can deliver, along with delicious and imaginative menus, featuring food prepared by James Beard Foundation chefs.

designer:

Sixpence For Your Shoe

location: Lord Thompson

Manor photo: Jocelyn Filley Photography floral designer: Dragonfly Events rental items: Rentals Unlimited stationary: Smashing Cards

A sexy and romantic newlywed breakfast in bed featuring layered fabrics, sumptuous pillows, antique silver candelabra, Wedgewood floral china, vintage silver and crystal. Tumbling blooms of orchid, gardenia, and roses juxtapose with linen hemstitch napkins adorned with peacock feathers, a Victorian gazing globe and a

34

handwritten love letter. $1500

designer:

Golden Gate Studio

location: The

Chanler Hazelwood Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited linens: Festive Occasions photo: James

An abundance of pink roses, peonies, and hydrangeas balance harmoniously over a blooming spring garden and pale green pintuck and sheer organza overlay. $900

M. Benedicte Verley

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Customized Demonstration tapes available on request www.musicperformanceservice.com

35

TABLETOPS

designer:

Bel Fiore Floral Studio

location: Lord Thompson

Manor Filley Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited linens: Wildflower Linens photo: Jocelyn

Square table for 6 with chivari chairs, kiwi plates, magnificent goblets and bamboo flatware. Table setting with metal and bamboo candelabra, lush bouquet of flowering kale, purple hydrangea, vendella, jade roses, and green hanging amaranth. Small urns filled with variegated sedium, green carnations, mint and

36

huckleberry. $1450

TABLETOPS

designer:

Jessica’s Country Flowers Lord Thompson Manor Filley Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited

location:

photo: Jocelyn

Organic and earthy elements of wooden trays, birch bark, river rocks, and potted plants.

Full arrangement at the top with green hydrangeas, roses and crabapples. $1200

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designer:

James Francois-Pijuan Event DĂŠcor

location: Wave

Hill Event Weddings rental items: Broadway Party Rentals photo: Main

Mystique celedon round linen tablecloth, natural ballroom chairs with olive cushions, olive napkins, set of 3 green apple glass plates, Bamboo flatware and green flared flute glasses set for eight. Flowers are hot pink and white cattleya orchids and phalaenopsis orchid arrangement on two-tiers of opaque scallop plates. $850

39

TABLETOPS

designer:

Stems Floral Design

Lord Thompson Manor Filley Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited

location:

photo: Jocelyn

Chocolate and ivory set the theme for this richly textured tablescape. Using an abundance of summer flowers including chocolate sunflowers, cherry brandy rudbekia, brown Queen Anne’s lace, coral bell leaves, hydrangeas, dahlias, and scattered white roses. Assorted pillar and tapered candles scattered around the base complete the look. $800

designer:

Flora Latte

location: The

Pitcher Inn Zarrella Photography rental items: Rentals Unlimited table: Admac Salvage

photo: Sara

“The Glass Slipper”. Moss-covered antique table with glass top, stone pedestal centerpieces with antique hydrangea, ladyslipper orchids, gaylex leaf and amaranthus. $1500

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KIM PRAAST PHOTOGRAPHY

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High centerpiece with red charm peonies, black beauty roses, green pods, green cymbidium, wine calla lilies with little mini arrangements.

Persimmon pintuck linen, amethyst charger plates, white linen napkins, pilsner drinking glass with amethyst wine glasses and natural wood ballroom chairs. $545

41

LOVE STORY

&

Vanessa Kevin portsmouth, rhode island

42

may 30, 2008 sears

By steven

V

anessa and Kevin met at a monthly Beer Festival at the Santa Anita Race Track in Arcadia, California. Four hours later, phone numbers were exchanged.

For their first official date, Kevin’s intent was to prepare dinner for Vanessa at his apartment, but since he shared it with three roommates, he opted for the Getty Center Museum in Los Angeles. Twenty nine year old Vanessa, originally from Makati in the Philipines, recalls the day. “After a beautiful afternoon in the sun, taking in the art, the architecture, and the vistas, we both decided we’d rather be at the beach covered in sand, than soaking up the culture. So we decided to go out again. And again. And again.”

Kevin, thirty-four, found a fun locale to pop the question to Vanessa. “Kevin had been trying to get me to camp with him for years, and I had always resisted.

He loves the outdoors and seems to think sleeping on dirt, eating halfcooked food and hiking are fun. Finally, I relented.”

The entire week prior, Kevin had been teasing Vanessa about a website called Bidz.com, which sells low end jewelry in a bidding format. “I spent hours and hours,” recalled Kevin, “creating a fake bidz.com box. I printed the logo out on tape and then mimicked the look of the site. Now I just needed a girlfriend to propose to.

I had it! Vanessa would be the one, and I would put her ring inside the box. Very clever!”

Kevin then disclosed that he had brought something along for Vanessa as a joke, and entered their tent to get it. Vanessa closed her eyes, awaiting

was in complete shock; he caught me totally by surprise. I said yes, and one year later we were married.”

Rhode Island was the state of the ceremony and celebration for the couple, who exchanged vows at St. Mary’s Church in Charlestown. The reception was held at the Glen Manor House in Portsmouth. “This massive French chateau, built in 1923, was modeled after the Petit Trianon Castle at Versailles,” said Vanessa. “It is a beautiful waterfront property with expansive gardens, a beautiful veranda, and more culture than you can imagine.” As a lovely tribute,

Become each other’s best friend, then you can live anywhere in the world and not feel alone. the surprise. “When I opened them, Kevin had the box. He kneeled down, opened up the inexpensive box, and pulled out a gorgeous wooden box inside.” The contents? Vanessa’s engagement ring. “I love you… will you marry me?” he said to me poignantly. I

Kevin’s eighty-six year old grandmother sang the beautiful classic, “Always.”

Advice for prospective couples?

“Become each others best friend and then you can live anywhere in the world and not feel alone.”

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43

LOVE STORY

Meghan David July 3, 2009 perugia, italy & Orrington, Maine By Nayda Ro n do n

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D

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avid had planned all the details. He and Meghan had flown in from California, where they lived and worked, to visit family on the East Coast. While out to dinner at Arrows, one of Meghan’s favorite restaurants in Maine, he would invite her to stroll the lovely gardens and ask her the-all-important question.

He even arranged to have a photographer hiding in the bushes to capture the moment. What he didn’t count on was the rain, or Meghan’s refusal to ruin her Louboutin shoes. With much cajoling from David – and a pair of flip-flops from the car – she relented. Shielded by a golf umbrella, David got down on one knee and proposed. It was pitch dark and pouring rain, but Meghan’s smile was radiant as she exclaimed, Yes! Such a romantic proposal called for an equally memorable wedding and reception.

Inspired by David’s Italian-American heritage, the couple chose a destination wedding at Castello di Montereone in Perugia, Italy. “We wanted a venue that was unique, elegant and reflected the essence of Italy, as well as able to provide good nearby sightseeing. It had to be small enough to take over as a family/wedding party with service focused on us. Everything about the castle, the service and staff was superb.”

The only glitch was that keeping it at 33 guests prevented extended family and friends from participating. In order to celebrate with everyone, the couple decided to throw a second reception at the home of Meghan’s parents.

The event in Italy was a four-day celebration, which David and Meghan planned down to meals and guided bus tours. On the wedding day, a 1923 Fiat, decorated with flowers, drove Meghan – clad in a strapless Monique Lhuillier gown with matching bolero jacket – and her father to the church, then escorted the married pair back to the castle. “Everyone on the street and in cars waved and cheered,” Meghan notes.

A cocktail reception in the castle’s cloister was followed by an eight-course dinner in the restaurant with a musical trio as entertainment.

After toasts, it was on to dessert and dancing on the terrace until 2 a.m. “It was all magical and romantic,” Meghan reminisces.

“Other than our wedding day, our last evening in Perugia was really fun and special.

We had a guided tour of Bevagna and

Montefalco, which ended with a tour of an organic vineyard, wine tasting and dinner in the wine cellar,” Meghan recounts. Goodie bags played up the Italian theme with wine, pasta, Baci chocolates and other Perugian products. A nod to Meghan’s Maine heritage, the bags were L.L.Bean Boat and Totes in pink and green.

In order to bring a bit of Italy to friends and family members who couldn’t attend, the couple had computer monitors showing photos their photographer put together of the trip. Other special touches included serving Prosecco instead of champagne, a pasta bar and party favors consisting of vine-wrapped paper cones filled with Perugia chocolates. The 16-piece Tony Boffa Band played traditional Italian songs and wedding dances.

“The Maine wedding was beyond fun,” Meghan says. “We walked from the house to the tent on a 250-foot long pathway. My mom had bagpipers walk in front of us and pipe us in. Everyone was in front of the tent on the patio

Such a romantic proposal called for an equally memorable wedding and reception. with pink and green parasols, cheering and clapping. It was an amazing moment – over 100 friends and family members celebrating with us.

We were overcome.”

Other personal highlights for the couple included the moment they first saw each other at the church aisle… their drive from the church to the castle… the alfresco rehearsal dinner at a fabulous restaurant in the countryside of Italy laughing, drinking and connecting with friends and family… a traditional Maine lobster bake the Friday before the wedding reception for out-oftown friends… guest tables individually adorned with unique antique tablecloths and napkins, all starched and pressed by Meghan’s mother, Betty.

Looking back on all the unforgettable moments, Meghan and David conclude, “This was an amazing summer of wedding planning and events!” Truly a Dolce Vita production!

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LOVE STORY

August 29, 2009 Boston, Massachusetts By Lindsey Aspinall Getz

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C

orey and Andrew met at Harvard Medical School. At the time, Andrew was a second year medical student and Corey was in his first year of a Ph.D. graduate program in cell biology. While Andrew was studying for the boards and reluctant to get involved with anyone, that all changed when he met Corey.

After several years of dating the pair began talking seriously about marriage and decided they both wanted the opportunity to be able to propose to one another at two different times.

Andrew popped the question first, proposing to Corey on a bike ride in Snowmass, Colorado.

“It’s one of our favorite bike rides,” says Corey.

“When we came to the end of the ride, which overlooks the valley below, I saw Andrew start to get nervous. He might have actually had his helmet still on when he proposed!”

Corey’s proposal took place on top of an uninhabited island in the Caribbean. The couple sailed to the island, anchored in a tiny cove, and snorkeled to the shore. “The hike to the summit where I planned to propose was, shall we say, ‘punctuated’ by several cactus sticks and exclamations of pain,” Corey recalls. “It turns out the island was covered in small and large cacti!

There was not a chance I was getting down on one knee! But the top had spectacular views of the surrounding islands. That’s where I asked Andrew to marry me.”

After two unique proposals, the couple put their efforts into planning an amazing outdoor, harbor-side wedding followed by a reception at the State Room in Boston. While the ceremony was originally planned to be on a pier in Charlestown, a tropical storm making its way up the East Coast required a quick re-routing. “Fortunately, over the course of just one day, our amazing event planner, Gabrielle Stone, switched the entire ceremony and all of its moving parts to a beautiful room adjoining the State Room,” says Corey. “We changed 20 months of planning in the course of just two

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Both surprised each other with unique marriage proposals… days, but the ceremony came off flawlessly.”

At the ceremony, a fellow colleague officiated for the pair. “In addition to talking about us and doing the normal officiant routine, he also talked about the importance and uniqueness of gay marriage,” says Andrew. “We wanted people to understand what had to happen in order to make gay marriage possible and that, unfortunately, most gay couples are still unable to get married in our country.”

The reception was highlighted by fabulous food and beautiful décor. The menu featured the couple’s favorite sushi and marinated grilled summer vegetables during the cocktail hour. Dinner included chilled fennel soup with mint crème fraîche, heirloom greens with herbs, candied hazelnuts and port-soaked currants, and a choice of Roasted Striped Bass or Filet Mignon in a Pinot Noir Emulsion, and Wild Mushroom Risotto. “We also had a band that was tremendous,” adds Andrew. “In the middle of the set Corey and I got up with friends and family and played a rock’n’roll song for the crowd. Corey plays saxophone and I play the drums, and my father and brother also joined the band as did a few close friends.”

But the party didn’t end when the reception concluded.

Corey and Andrew insisted on an after-party complete with 80’s dance music, an 80’s-themed video montage, lounge furniture strewn with brightly colored satin throw pillows and jewel-toned linens, and illuminated acrylic end tables. Guests had more snacks to nibble on as they danced the night away including milkshake shooters, mini cheeseburgers, and even ice cream sandwiches in multiple flavors! It was a blast for everyone and most definitely a fun way to end an amazing wedding day. Guests were left calling it the “wedding of a lifetime” for good reason.

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CATERING

for the Love of food Tables Of Content photo credit:

Dan Doke Photography Local strip bass atop asparagus plank with crabmeat salsa, purple peruvian potato salad and fava beans.

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clockwise from left:

T

here’s no question about it—the culinary arts are kissing cousins to the arts of romance. Whether it’s simple fare delivered with sensational flair or exotic samplings infused with rich ethnic influences, food is often a favorite language of love. And what better time to express that emotion than during the most romantic celebration of all?

Your wedding day is the perfect opportunity to put your feelings where your mouth is. The foods you offer your cherished guests should be a celebration

of tastes; a culinary call to savor the occasion with spectacular dishes that are as appealing to the eyes as they are to the palate. Fresh, flavorful and artfully presented, the foods you serve at your reception should be love poems for the taste buds. From appetizer delights to pièce de résistance entrees and scrumptious desserts, it’s all about a sensory feast of colors, textures, smells and creative presentations that are sure to transform every morsel into a pure love bite.

– Nayda Rondon

A Thyme To Cook photo credit:

Adeline & Grace Photography Citrus infused raspberry, kiwi and cantaloupe “pearls” on a poppy seed edible spoon.

Omni Parker House photo credit:

Dan Doke Photography Seared salmon with jasmine rice timbale, buenne blanc, baby vegetable medley.

The Pitcher Inn photo credit:

Sara Zarrella Photography Parmesan custard with a warm vegetable salad and basil oil.

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CATERING

top down:

Omni Parker House photo credit: Dan Doke Photography Valhrona wellfleet oyster with cucumber apple cider vinaigrette.

Providence Biltmore photo credit: Scolari Photography Pan roasted jonah crab cake with green apple-fennel slaw.

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top down:

Omni Parker House photo credit:

Dan Doke Photography Individual Boston Cream Pie Dessert – sponge cake layered with pastry cream and chocolate ganache.

Tables Of Content photo credit: Dan Doke Photography Crème Brulee Flight – crème de banana, mixed berry and chocolate espresso.

51

CATERING

clockwise from top left:

A Thyme To Cook photo credit: Adeline & Grace Photography Cantaloupe with ginger cream and fresh basil.

Providence Biltmore photo credit: Scolari Photography Local beets with praline pecans, micro arugula, blue cheese vinaigrette

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53

ADELINE AND GRACE PHOTOGRAPHY

CATERING

The Chanler photo credit:

James Hazelwood Photography Chilled poached shrimp with white balsamic and mixed green salad, jicama and carrot julienne.

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above:

A Thyme To Cook photo credit: Adeline & Grace Photography Asian fish and chips with black and white sesame crusted ahi tuna with lotus root chips, wakami coleslaw and hoisin wasabi drizzle.

55

CATERING

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

The Chanler

photo credit: James Hazelwood Photography Australian Lamb. Morocco spiced eggplant compote, fresh chickpeas, Jerusalem artichoke and a balsamic reduction.

A Thyme To Cook photo credit: Adeline & Grace Photography “Salad on a Stick” cantaloupe ice with brunoise tomato, pepper, cucumber and basil chiffonade.

The Pitcher Inn photo credit: Sara Zarrella Photography Goat cheese ravioli with pea sauce, beets and pea shoots.

56

The Chanler photo credit:

James Hazelwood Photography Seared Scottish salmon and dover scallop duet. warm leek fondue, tomato confit and lemon oil.

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CATERING

top down:

The Chanler

photo credit: James Hazelwood Photography Dark chocolate Hazelnut truffle cake, crĂŠme anglaise, Hazelnut praline and chocolate sauce.

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Tables Of Content photo credit: Dan Doke Photography Grilled filet mignon with mushroom garden sweet pommes puree and madeira jus.

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CATERING

Tables Of Content Catering photo credit: Dan Doke Photography Contemporary deconstructed apple waldorf salad.

Tables Of Content photo credit: Dan Doke Photography Spring pea soup with lemon aioli and pea tendrils.

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James Hazelwood Photography Kobe beef sliders. carmelized red onion jam, Vermont white cheddar cheese, sourdough toast points and house made pickles.

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Organic Farming: Real Food For Thought

By E. Bingo Wyer

Images from katchkie farm

T

in Columbia County, has provided produce and bounty of unmatched freshness to the company’s weddings and special events. Crops are grown for specific client celebrations; there is no other catering company nationwide, operating its own farm, no less one which is an organic paradise. And Katchkie Farm is another dimension that sets Great Performances apart from the rest.

Imagine you and your fiancé being able to offer guests truly fresh produce picked at the peak of freshness…. the morning of your wedding reception? Now But wait a minute: you’re a bride, right? picture your guests’ surprise when they discover What do you care of rivers and farming? you—the bride— actually planted the seeds that produced the tender organic bounty they are feasting on. That’s right: If you want to plant some of the Well, if you’re a bride who selected catering innovator Great Performances, then perhaps you do care. And, produce for your wedding, if your taste palette, like that of your fiancé’s, has grown to expect the finest culinary experience, then you won’t be disappointed.

Since 2006, Katchkie Farm, the company’s sixty acre organic farm he Hudson River is three hundred and fifteen miles long. It rises out of Lake Tear Cloud in the Adirondacks and flows southward to Manhattan. So beautiful are the river’s slopes —and so magnificent are its vistas—that an entire school of 19th century world class artists, The Hudson River School of Painting, forever changed American art. Before then, the rolling fields were dotted with the land’s most beautiful and bountiful farms; at times their legendary produce fed Revolutionary troops.

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female wait staff service that drew on her colleagues in the arts. “It was a way for my photographer friends to find work to support their art.” Soon Neumark’s eye for aesthetics and details won her a strong client Imagine you and your fiancé being able to following, and the segue into catering was practically a command performance. Today, offer guests truly fresh produce picked at the Manhattan based caterer is the largest off premises catering company in any U.S. city, the peak of freshness… and their creative menus attract wedding couples who seek a one-of-a-kind celebration.

Couples who choose Great Performances often are “Great Performances is only too happy to make that authentic foodies. “They expect the food to truly transhappen,” says founder and CEO, Liz Neumark. port guests and be memorable,” says Neumark, who adds, This sort of imaginative thinking is typical of Neumark. Three decades ago, as a graduate of Bernard “Today’s couples place a high value on organic foods. A lot of have joined the slow food movement.” Increasingly College and working as photographer, Neumark Neumark suggests how young couples are interested in identified a gap in the newly emerging catering busimaking a difference within their own local eco-region. ness. At that time, top tier social galas and important She explains, “It’s great to see a generation come along weddings were seeking exciting venues beyond large who will protect the land. They know if you don’t renew hotel ballrooms. Museums, lofts, city parks and pentand give back, the earth’s sustainability is threatened.” houses beckoned guests. But how to get the food on One of Neumark’s more inspirational food strategies site, and once there, who would serve the guests? As is Great Performance’s 100 Mile Menu, where items are newly formed catering companies jumped in to fill the void, many were poorly equipped to find, train and hire sourced from within a 100-mile radius of New York City. This underscores the company’s commitment to wait staff for these events. Those few ‘cater-waiter’ celebrating local flavors, while supporting sustainable services that materialized over night were male agriculture and good earth practices. (As a rule, when dominated. So Neumark the average American sits down to eat, each ingredient founded Great Perforhas typically traveled at least 1500 miles, devouring a mances as a top huge chunk of fossil fuels before it lands on the plate.) The 100 Mile Menu items present a dazzling array of

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heightened taste experiences; there’s County Pizza with Spring Onions and Ricotta , Striped Bass Escaviche with Pickled Beets, Duck Confit with Sour Cherries, even Hudson Valley Foie Gras on Brioche with a Rhubarb Chutney. But for sheer fun, the Beef Slider with Thunder Pickles—with a dollop of Katchkie Farm Ketchup— is a classic favorite.

It was this same environmental premise—and the growing need to be more mindful of the planet—that helped launch Katchie Farm.

Katchkie Farm also is home to the Sylvia Center, a non-profit organization that focuses on children’s nutrition, farm education and wellness. As home cooked meals disappear from America’s homes, the Sylvia Center helps children learn the value of healthy seasonal eating as they experience country living first hand. There are a variety of child directed food adventures, the type of learning laced with fun, so that the lessons last a lifetime. At Katchkie there are vegetable beds to explore and a chance to see first hand how greenhouses operate. There’s even a chicken coop—a big attraction for the children. Children also learn to cook meals in Katchkie Farm’s open-air kitchen, with fun recipes that the children can take home and make with their families. “We cover a wide swathe, weddings and children’s education,” laughs Neumark.

Speaking with this visionary, one sees that Neumark hopes to instill each wedding celebration with a sense of hope and commitment—all with an eye to the future. “We’re happy that many couples want to do the right thing and we can help do just that with a memorable wedding. They want to keep the earth safe and clean.” And it’s equally clear: So does Great Performances.

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Colors for all Seasons Y

Stems Flower Design photo credit:

Jocelyn Filley Photography location:

Lord Thompson Manor

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Bouquet consists of a vibrant draping cascade of red and orange dahlias, plume celosia, green amaranth, orange unique roses, and clematis coleus. $300

Y

B

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

Atmosphere & Floral Design by tammy becker photo credit: BKB Photography

A gathered clutch of orange and hot pink roses, mango mini calla lilies with crespedia and varigated hosta leaves for texture, with the handle wrapped in a sheer silk scarf from Russia. $115

GOLDEN GATE STUDIO photo credit:

JAMES HAZELWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE CHANLER

This bouquet combines saracena lilies, fiddlehead fern, parrot tulips, roses and cymbidium orchids in a stylish, earth friendly design. $190

ulging peonies, sweet calla lilies, and classic roses in every hue off the color chart. These are just some of the flowers that La Bella Bride is seeing in the latest bridal bouquets and the combination spells romance. Romantic bouquets that are packed with a variety of flowers are the big trend for 2010. After a year of downsized bouquets, no doubt a result of the economic times, the start of a turnaround has led to bigger and bolder bunches of flowers. And the color trends for 2010 are quite daring as well.

Pastels and neutrals still have their place as base colors, but it’s the bright hues that are taking the stage. Don’t be afraid to go with a deep shade of majestic purple or that super sunny yellow. Today’s bridal bouquets are bringing lots of color to wedding décor. Brides are also getting more daring with their choice of flowers, bringing some more exotic selections into the mix. Of course calla lilies and roses never go out of style and we’re seeing plenty of them mixed in too. Brides should have fun as they work with their florist to create that perfect bouquet. Don’t hold back or be confined to the conventional grouping of white or red roses. Mix and match colors and flowers to create the bouquet of your dreams. After all, it’s about making it a day you’ll remember forever.

– Lindsey Aspinall Getz 69

FLORAL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

Golden Gate Studio photo credit:

JAMES HAZELWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE CHANLER

Pink peonies, fuchsia roses and soft pink miniature calla lilies are embraced and caressed in curving loops of lily grass. $175

JESSICA’S COUNTRY FLOWERS photo credit:

JOCELYN FILLEY PHOTOGRAPHY location: LORD THOMPSON MANOR

Maidenhair fern, lady slipper orchids and roses wrapped with birch bark and thin silver wire. $200

FLOWERTHYME photo credit: KASSie LAFAZIA photography location: THE CHANLER Phalaneopsis orchid with Bells of Ireland. $18

THE PINK SHUTTER photo credit: SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN Cream stock schwartz walder callas, spray roses, amethyst cymbidium orchids, spider plantlets, cocculus with a midori ribbon treatment. $300

70

CONCEPTUAL IMAGE DESIGN photo credit:

JAMES HAZELWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE CHANLER A classic tone on tone bouquet of opium roses, South American blue hydrangea, cymbidium orchids clustered and finished with a bridal satin ribbon. $225

CLOCKWISE FROM right:

Atmosphere & Floral Design by tammy becker photo credit:

BKB Photography

Double light pink cymbidium orchid accented with a touch of magenta coxcomb and dusty miller with the stem wrapped in the same light pink satin ribbon. $15

THE PAINTED TULIP photo credit: SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN Bridal bouquet with peach juliet cabbage roses, rosy hypericum berry, black kangaroo paw, illumination peach begonia, satin pink ribbon with deep purple bows. $300

71

FLORAL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

FLORA LATTE photo credit:

SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN

Calla lilies, hosta leaves and peach hyperi cum berry wrapped in duponi silk ribbon. $150

PERENNIAL STUDIO photo credit:

SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN

Natural bouquet of black magic calla, bridal veil astilbe, solomon’s seal, coral bells, hosta, with satin ribbon accent. $300

THE PINK SHUTTER photo credit:

SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN

Lemon yellow spray rose, peach hypericum, lady’s mantle, midori ribbon, wrapped with copper design wire. $10

72

FLORAL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

THE PINK SHUTTER photo credit: SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN Schwartz walder calla, spider plantlet, cocculus leaf and midori ribbon. $15

BOTANICA photo credit: MAIN EVENT WEDDINGS location: WAVE HILL Casablanca lilies and stephanotis accented with hypericum berries set in a cascade of ruskus leaf. $300

THE PAINTED TULIP photo credit: SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN Smoke bush purple, golden marguerite centers, purple organza ribbon and golden marguerite center pin. $15

floral artistry by Allison Ellis photo credit: SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN Bridal bouquet created with mokara orchids, burgundy dahlias, scabiosa, ranunculus, yellow freesia and oregano. $175

74

MOUNTAIN FLOWER FARM photo credit:

SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN Certified organic peony bouquet – “Charlie’s white” peony, “Elsa Sasse” peony, and Dutch iris. $150

BLOMMA FLICKA FLOWERS photo credit:

SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN

LAURA BEALS PHOTOGRAPHY

Yarrow, yellow peony, white peony, scabiosa, scabiosa pods, lisianthus, English garden rose, sweet juliet gar den rose, day lilies, and ivory garden rose with Hyman Hendler ribbon. $200

Stems Wedding & Event Flowers www.stemsflowerdesign.com

(860) 490-1444

75

FLORAL

BLOOMING BLOSSOMS photo credit:

JAMES HAZELWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE CHANLER RasPberry peonies, wine callas, lavender scilia, lavender tea roses and amnesia roses. $150

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE:

Atmosphere & Floral Design by tammy becker photo credit:

BKB Photography

A hand tied clutch of cinnamon and burnt orange roses, mango mini calla lilies and orange tulips finished with lily grass and aspidistra loops. $200

FLOWERTHYME photo credit:

JAMES HAZELWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

Green hydrangeas, sunny poppies, miracle roses, firecracker dahlias, ladies mantle and fuchsia stock. $125

76

FROM TOP LEFT:

DATURA a MODERN GARDEN photo credit: JOCELYN FILLEY PHOTOGRAPHY location: LORD THOMPSON MANOR This streamlined bouquet of callas, amaranth, lysimacchia, cymbidium and anthurium redefines the modern cascade. $275

THE BLUE TOAD photo credit: SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN A bright, fun bouquet consists of anemone, garden roses, sweet peas, local peonies and thistle. $150

Weddings, Events, Lifestyle + (860) 399-8000 + Serving all of Connecticut + belfiorefloral.com

FLORAL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

BLOMMA FLICKA FLOWERS photo credit: SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN Scabiosa pod, scabiosa, calla lily, clematis vine, dahlia, parrot tulip, tuberose, begonia, yellow peony, lisianthus, sweet juliet garden rose, yarrow, cream garden rose, and a pitcher plant with midori ribbon. $200

floral artistry by allison ellis photo credit: SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN Bridal bouquet created with tropical Amazon roses, yellow parrot tulips, yelďšş low spray roses, freesia, hypericum berries and grasses. $200

FLORA LATTE photo credit: SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN Lushly textured garden roses compactly gathered and framed with dusty miller. $200

78

FLORAL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

THE PAINTED TULIP photo credit:

SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN

Peach cabbage rose, black kangaroo paw, rose hypericum berry, satin eggplant purple ribbon. $25

flowers by semia

ROUNTREE flowers photo credit:

MAIN EVENT WEDDINGS location: WAVE HILL

Dusty miller foliage, peachy garden roses, acoria branches, “Blushing Bride” blooms and “Black” scabiosa finished with silvery gray velvet ribbon. $325

80

photo credit: SCOLARI PHOTOGRAPHY Starfish with galax leaf and variegated lily grass. $25

STEMS FLOWER DESIGN photo credit: JOCELYN FILLEY PHOTOGRAPHY location: LORD THOMPSON MANOR Classic white cluster of amelia roses with rex begonia leaves, lime-like Queen Anne’s lace, sunflower buds, white clary sage and bittersweet and plume celosia. $200

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

RENNY & REED photo credit: MAIN EVENT WEDDINGS location: WAVE HILL Beach bouquet with sea glass, mixed shells, white calla lilies, white lisianthus, peach calla lilies, dusty pink roses, white spray roses with satin ivory ribbon and Raffia wrap. $475

Just for you Floral design studio photo credit:

jocelyn filley PHOTOGRAPHY location:

lord thompson manor

A gathered summer bouquet of blue globe echinops, cream astilbe, lavender, blueberries and mint. $140

FLORAL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

JUST FOR YOU FLORAL DESIGN STUDIO photo credit:

JOCELYN FILLEY PHOTOGRAPHY location: LORD THOMPSON MANOR

Hand tied bouquet of chocolate cymbidiums, blue muscari, white ranunculus, millet and maidenhair fern. $235

THE PAINTED TULIP photo credit:

SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN

Bridal bouquet with orange and yellow dahlias, golden marguerite daisy centers, saliva purple clematis, smoke bush, organza purple wrap with golden marguerite center buttons. $250

BLOOMING BLOSSOMS photo credit:

SCOLARI PHOTOGRAPHY

White hydrangeas, wine calla lilies, white calla lilies and roses. $160

82

Serving Vermont and New England, Perennial Studio brings an innovative approach to floral designs and event styling - from local, seasoned flowers to unique and exotic fauna for a most perfect occasion....

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FLORAL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

FLORA LATTE photo credit:

SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN “Patience” garden rose and buds. $18

ROUNTREE FLOWERS photo credit: MAIN EVENT WEDDINGS location: WAVE HILL Dinner plate dahlias, lisianthus, ivory spray garden roses and pink mini calla lilies finished with dusty pink velvet ribbon and pearl pins. $325

THE BLUE TOAD photo credit:

SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN

Garden-style bouquet that is hand-tied with garden roses, spray roses, sweet peas, sage and fresh cut lavender. The stems are left natural with small raffia ribbon accompaniment. $100

84

PHOTO BY STUDIO 1923

FROM TOP:

EVENTS BY SHARON’S DAUGHTER orchids ‘n bloom photo credit: DAN DOKE PHOTOGRAPHY location: OMNI PARKER HOUSE

A lilac cathedral-length chiffon train surrounds ivory vendela roses, lavender mini callas, statice, and amethyst jewels. $200

BLOOMING BLOSSOMS photo credit:

JAMES HAZELWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE CHANLER

Heart shaped bouquet, you and me forever, scilia, lavender amnesia rose, baby lavender tea roses, clover flower wrapped with lace. $85

85

FLORAL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

BEL FIORE FLORAL STUDIO photo credit:

JOCELYN FILLEY PHOTOGRAPHY location: LORD THOMPSON MANOR

Vendella and jade roses, purple lisianthus, ladies mantle, purple mini callas, green dianthus, all tied with chocolate double satin ribbon. $250

DATURA a MODERN GARDEN photo credit: JOCELYN FILLEY PHOTOGRAPHY location: LORD THOMPSON MANOR A playful bouquet of green trick dianthus and bronze cymbidium is acccented with loops of lily grass and collar of raspberry celosia. $225

EVENTS BY SHARON’S DAUGHTER orchids ‘n bloom photo credit: DAN DOKE PHOTOGRAPHY location: OMNI PARKER HOUSE

86

Hand tied antique green hydrangea and mini hydrangea accented with super green roses, fiddlehead ferns, ting ting and a half collar of variegated aspidistra. $125

Specializing in Wedding and Event Design throughout New England

JESSICA’S COUNTRY FLOWERS photo credit:

JOCELYN FILLEY PHOTOGRAPHY location: LORD THOMPSON MANOR Hand tied bouquet with ivory roses, green and white lady slipper orchids, with a twisted kiwi vine. $300

BOTANICA INC. photo credit:

MAIN EVENT WEDDINGS location: WAVE HILL

A globe of roses, mini calla lilies, lisianthus, sweet pea, hydrangea and scabiosa in shades of white, pink and cream accented with crepe myrtle berries and mini hosta leaves. $500

(603) 444-7600

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87

FLORAL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

Soiree Floral photo credit:

Brea mcdonald photography

Dutch pink hydrangea, cafĂŠ au lait dahlias, blush stock, peach gerberas, and sophia roses. $105

Atmosphere & Floral Design by tammy becker photo credit: BKB Photography

Bouquet combines roses, cymbidium orchids, coxcomb, dusty miller and feathery astilbe accented with small glass beaded leaves for a touch of shimmer. $200

BLOOMING BLOSSOMS photo credit:

JAMES HAZELWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE CHANLER

White calla lilies, cymbidium mini orchids, phalenaopsis orchid, white dendrobium orchids and jasmine blooms with crystals. $200

88

CONCEPTUAL IMAGE DESIGN photo credit:

JAMES HAZELWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE CHANLER A vibrant citrus bouquet of milva and cream sickle roses, hypericum berry, snap dragon hand tied and finished with natural green ribbon. $175

Custom Floral Art Tony Palmieri, AIFD

www.amoderngarden.com

PHOTO BY JAGSTUDIOS.NET

FLORAL

CLOCKWISE Top:

The Pink Shutter photo credit:

SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE PITCHER INN

Concodor oriental lily, “Créme de la Créme” roses, lemon yellow spray roses, white english stock, “Café” mini gerbera, lady’s mantle, umbrella fern, peach hypericum berry completed by an amethyst brooch on a midori ribon treatment. $140

FLOWERTHYME photo credit:

JAMES HAZELWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY location: THE CHANLER

Nikko blue hydrangea, anemones, fiddlehead ferns, brown hypericum berries, pitcher plant, and bachelor buttons. $150

RENNY & REED photo credit:

MAIN EVENT WEDDINGS location: WAVE HILL

Plum calla lilies, plum colored dahlias, seeded eucalyptus, white camomile, amnesia roses, sterling roses, green sedum, sage green satin ribbon dotted with fresh camomile heads. $350

90

Jessica’s Country Flowers Exclusive Floral Designs for Weddings and Special Events

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’s Conn ec t icu t

little white book /`lit•el wıt book / noun A directory of La Bella Bride Magazine advertisers – with optional photos – organized by states and categories.

F l or a l De s i g n

C at e r i n g Ph o t o g r a ph y

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Bel Fiore 860.399.8000 belfiorefloral.com Datura – A Modern Design 860.346.8031 amoderngarden.com

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BKB Photography 617-721-9208 bkbphoto.com Dan Doke Photography 978-664-3811 dandoke.com Ken S. Kotch Photography 617-230-8462 kotch.biz

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Jubilee Events, LLC 203-632-5654 eventjubilee.com

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Jessica’s Country Flowers 860.673.6693 jesscountryflowerscom

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Just for You Floral Design Studio, LLC 860.349.0575 justforyouweddings.com

C at e r i n g

Tables of Content 617-363-0404 tablesofcontent.com

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Admire Design, LLC 860.508-7141 admiredesignllc.com

92

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Independence Harbor 800-287-8300 ihweddings.com Omni Parker House 617-227-8600 omniparkerhouse.com R e n ta l s

Unique Weddings by Alexis 617-833-5661 weddingsbyalexis.com F l or a l De s i g n

Atmosphere and Floral Designs by Tammy Becker 917-288-3737 tammybecker.com

Rentals Unlimited 781-341-1600 rentals-unlimited.net V i de o g r a ph y

S. H. Videography 978-531-7236 shvideography.com

ma in e

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James Hazelwood Photographer 401-932-6963 jameshazelwood.com

n e w hamp sh ire E n t e r ta i n m e n t

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Block Island Tourism Council 800-383-2474 blockislandinfo.com Go Newport CVB 800-976-5122 ext. 133 GoNewport.com

Blooming Blossoms 401-274-3929 bloomingblossoms.com

Kim Praast Photography 401-996-8877 kimpraastphotography.com

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Absolutely Music Four Guys in Tuxes 401-847-4416 fourguysintuxes.com E H Florals & FloraLattĂŠ 603-444-7600 floralatte.com

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Arpeggio Weddings Entertainment 401-769-1325 ArpeggioWeddings.com Jason Roseman & Tropical Gems 401-726-7731 jasonroseman.com Music Performance Service 401-568-2302 musicperformanceservice.com

On Site Hair and Makeup Art by Christy Lee 401-477-4323 christy-lee.net

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pamela d’orsi ryan events & papers 401-398-8277 pdrevents.com

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v e rmon t

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93

LOVE STORY

&

Heather Chad October 4, 2008 Pomfret, Connecticut By lindsey aspinall getz

94

R ec e pt ion Sit e

The Providence Biltmore providencebiltmore.com P h otog ra p h e r

Kim Praast Photography kimpraastphotography.com Ca ke D e s ig ne r

Toria Dolce toriadolce.com B r idal G own

Maggie Sottero maggiesottero.com

H

eather was so sure that Chad was the right man for her that she was willing to move across the country for him — after only two months of dating. The pair met through a mutual friend while living in Rhode Island in November 2002 and hit it off immediately. There was such chemistry that when Chad was offered a position in Las Vegas, he asked if Heather would go with him.

“It was something that was so out of character for both of us,” admits Heather. “But it was almost like doing a trust fall as a little kid and just knowing things would turn out okay.

It just felt right.”

The pair made the big move in January 2003 and after a whirlwind of changes was finally able to take things slower and just start enjoying their time as a new couple. They bought a house in 2004 and took a lot of fabulous scuba diving vacations — a hobby they both enjoy. In fact, it was during an August 2007 scuba trip to Bonaire that Chad took the relationship to a new level. They were on-foot and exploring the cliff side of Washington Slagbaai National Park, when Chad walked ahead a ways. He called for Heather to come see one of the special rocks, he’d found. “I told him there were rocks everywhere, but he said this one was the best,” recalls Heather. “When I got over to him he

got down on one knee with a ring and said ‘This is the rock I meant.’”

Heather knew she wanted a New England wedding and they started planning for an October date. “Fall in New England has always been important to me,” says Heather. “The smell in the air, the beautiful leaves, and being with family on Thanksgiving make it a special time of year.”

The ceremony was held at the Clark Memorial Chapel on the grounds of the Pomfret School in Connecticut. Heather wore a Maggie Sottero gown and carried black magic

simplicity to it,” describes Heather. “It was Old Hollywood with a New England twist.”

The reception, held at the Providence Biltmore, carried on the Old Hollywood feel as well as the color motif. During cocktail hour, guests dined on fancy hors d’oeuvres like dried apricot topped with honey, Vermont goat cheese mousse with pistachio dust and tiny Yukon gold potato skins with lobster smoked bacon and gruyere fondue. The four-tier, four-flavor cake featured a black and white motif inspired by

Old Hollywood with a New England twist. roses with dark purple calla lilies. Her processional included four flower girls and five bridesmaids, who wore deep amethyst-colored gowns. In addition to purple hues, inspired by the fall grape harvest in New England, a black and white motif was also woven into the wedding with the groomsmen’s attire, which included shoes with white wingtips. Following the ceremony, Heather and Chad took a 1961 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud to the reception while the bridal party also rode “in style” in a white super stretch limousine. “There was definitely an Old Hollywood feel to the wedding, but instead of all the glamour, there was a sense of clean and pure

Audrey Hepburn’s dress from the movie Sabrina. It was served along with a berry flambé, which was a real treat for guests. “They dimmed all the lights, and the black-and-white tuxedo clad servers came out carrying flaming trays of the flambé,” remembers Heather.

While it was a big change for Heather to move to Las Vegas back in 2003, she says she always knew it was the right decision — and things certainly had a fairytale ending. “I told my roommate after our very first date that Chad was the guy I was going to marry,” she recalls. “It just felt familiar from the first day and I never second-guessed myself in making that move.”

95

LOVE STORY

&

Lauren Ian orleans, massachusetts

96

By

september 26, 2009 Lindsey Aspinall Getz

T

hough they both lived in New York City, Lauren and Ian met at the Jersey shore. Ian was visiting a mutual friend whom Lauren happened to be sharing a beach house with. “We had met the night before and while I was surfing in the ocean the next day she took my cell and put her number in it,” recalls Ian. “I loved that about her.

She took action.”

Two and a half years later, Ian was the one to take action. When Lauren arrived home to the couple’s Manhattan duplex from work one evening, Ian called her upstairs. Surrounded by candles and rose petals, Ian asked Lauren to be his wife. She called her parents, whom she believed were at home in Kansas, and told them it was the perfect night – the only thing that was missing was being able to share her joy in-person with them. But little did she know that Ian had flown her parents into Manhattan and they were playing along for the surprise. In just hours they would all be together. In fact, Ian had also brought his own parents into town, along with some other family and friends.

“That night we went to our favorite Italian restaurant for dinner,” recalls Ian. “I had been there several times earlier that week putting together a personal menu.” When Lauren and Ian arrived, their friends and family were already waiting, enjoying some appetizers Ian had planned in advance. “It turned into

an entire weekend of celebrating with family,” he says.

Family became a major theme in the planning of the wedding. Lauren and Ian chose to have their wedding and reception hosted at his parents’ Cape Cod home. The ceremony was interfaith and performed jointly by Father Walter Cuenin of Brandeis University and Rabbi Karen Landy of Brookline, MA.

This included table assignments that were printed directly onto clamshells that had been clammed by Ian’s father, Ian and his groomsmen coming to the ceremony by boat wearing kneehigh clamming boots! Perhaps most impressive were the multiple tent flips that happened throughout the night – the most that The Perfect Plan has ever done in one evening. The ceremony tent flipped into a buffet

Take the time to stop and look around at your wedding as it’s happening.

Attention to detail was also important to the couple, as they are both used to it in their careers— Lauren as a vice president at Ruder Finn, a major Manhattan PR firm, and Ian as an Emmy award-winning producer for the Rachel Ray Show.

“In my line of work we focus on the little things because people do notice them,” says Ian. “So there were a lot of small wedding details we wanted to pay attention to.”

All of these small details kept wedding planners Connie Clark, owner of The Perfect Plan and Angie Montale, senior planner, quite busy. “The couple took a lot of time to personalize their wedding,” says Clark.

“They had a lot of very creative, out-ofthe-box ideas.”

tent for dinner, and then into a dessert station and scotch bar, and then finally to an after-party tent that featured mini grilled cheese sandwiches and homemade Cape Cod kettle chips.

Late that night the nearby reception tent also made a flip into a brunch tent for Sunday morning.

It was a bittersweet moment when the wedding weekend came to a close after so much time spent planning.

Clark says she genuinely misses Lauren and Ian as they came to feel like family. And while the couple could hardly believe how fast their wedding went, they say they did everything they could to take it all in. “People always told us: ‘Take the time to stop and look around at your wedding as it’s happening’,” says Ian. “We did that and it was amazing.”

eve nt p la nne r

cat e r e r

The Perfect Plan theperfect-plan.com

Chapins chapinsrestaurant.com

R ec e pt ion Sit e

Ca ke

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Creative Baking creativebaking.com

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Meredith Fancy flowersbyfancy.com

T e nt

Bayside Tent baysidetent.com R e nta ls

Rentals Unlimited rentals-unlimited.net 97

LOVE STORY

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Kellie Anthony

98

May 24, 2009 Jersey City, New Jersey By Steven Sears

K

ellie, originally from New Rochelle New York, a small animal and exotics veterinarian, fell in love with a Garden State guy and the state of New Jersey. “I originally thought I was going to practice mostly on horses, so I chose New Jersey for its reputation, and quickly fell in love with all the state has to offer. Now I just drive by horses on the way to work; funny how life works out.”

She was attracted to Anthony the moment she saw him.

Gorgeous blue eyes, a great smile, and – his boa constrictor? “It turned out, his beloved pet Reggie naturally tugged on the heartstrings of this former Bronx Zoo employee. In fact, one of our earlier dates involved a “consultation” for this poor constipated snake, which fortunately resolved itself in a rapid fashion.

George Washington found Morristown, New Jersey important enough to keep his headquarters there during the Revolutionary War, and the couple considered it the town likewise for their first date, at the very popular Calaloo Café, in July of 2004. “We spent,” says Kellie, “a lot of time chatting and trying to out-do each other with bad, corny jokes. There was an immediate connection, a sense of comfort and ease also giddiness that night. I felt that instant spark of chemistry and quickly recognized that I had met someone very special that night. Soon we were spending more and more nights and weekends together and, by November of that year, I knew in my heart that I had finally met the man I was destined to marry.”

The New York City skyline was the background on Sunday, May 24, 2009. “We were married on the grounds of Liberty State Park in Jersey City behind the Liberty House Restaurant, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. It was a fitting tribute and locale for both of our families: my family is strictly metropolitan area New Yorkers, whereas

Anthony’s parents immigrated here from Italy forty years ago, and his Dad actually came through the Annex at Ellis Island.”

The wedding color themes at the Liberty House were black, fuchsia and white, and the couple also paid homage to the pets and animals they love. “My objective,” Kellie claims, “was to create an air of modern, urban sophistication for the wedding, while at the same time paying homage to our beloved pets and the animals we love.”

Wedding reception favors were a donation to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Utah.

The couple’s first dance, to Con Te Partiro by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah

There was an immediate connection, a sense of comfort and ease.

Brightman, went over almost minus a hitch. “I forgot the order of the rehearsed steps approximately one minute into the song,” says Kellie.

“Fortunately I had a very long wedding gown that covered my two left feet as Anthony twirled me around the dance floor. Our guests were none the wiser!”

P h otog ra phe r

Images by Berit imagesbyberit.com R ec e pt io n S i te

Liberty House libertyhouserestaurant.com F lor ist

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pamelad’orsiryanevents&papers

INVITATIONS

photo credit:

Scolari Photography

Cream letter-press invitation embellished with dark pink and orange colored flowers adorned with a decorative motif by Dauphine Press. Price available upon request.

Send It in Style 100

Papermoon Invitations photo credit:

Scolari Photography

Elegant ivory with mocha flower invitation is sure to wow your guests. Priced at quantity of 100, $526 includes response set and invitation with envelopes.

C

onsidering it’s the first thing guests will see from your wedding, the invitation plays a critical role. It’s a small sampling of the main event—telling your friends and family what to expect from your big day. There are many trends when it comes to wedding invitations for 2010. Some brides are actually custom-designing theirs, as more and more invitation companies have started offering this option. This can be done with crystal accents, custom artwork and other unique designs of your own choosing.

Another trend is the eco-chic invitation.

Nature-inspired invites are a direct result of the green movement that continues to gain ground. Many invites feature tree and leaf designs and are coming in earthier tones.

Some are even made of recycled paper. Color is also playing a role this year as brides are going bold and bright for their signature wedding color palettes. While there are a lot of options, narrow it down by selecting the invite that best conveys the sense of style you want your guests to embrace. Like every other aspect of your planning, the invite should reflect the wedding design you’ve been building.

by Lindsey Aspinall Getz

Admire Design photo credit:

Scolari Photography

“Madison & James” custom designed invitation and escort card. Shown in chocolate brown, coral and cream. Complete customization available. Invitation set $950 for 100. Escort cards $180 for 100.

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INVITATIONS

ABOVE:

pamelad’orsiryanevents&papers photo credit:

JamesHazelwoodPhotography location: The Chanler Cream paper stock bordered by an elegant intricately woven light green and mocha edging, surrounds green and mocha text, in a sophisticated fashion. Total set $18.00 each

RIGHT:

Papermoon Invitations photo credit:

Scolari Photography

This pretty pink and green invitation is perfect for any shower or can be used for a wedding invitation. Price for quantity of 100 is $558 as shown with liner.

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Lasso’d Moon photo credit:

SaraZarrellaPhotography

cloud howard photography

“Chantilly Lace” from our exclusive vintage inspired line, The intricate border is printed on white linen cardstock and paired with a coordinating cardstock.

Can be recolored to match any scheme. Prices start at $2.25 each.

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events + papers

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INVITATIONS

pamelad’orsiryan events & papers

photo credit:

ScolariPhotography

White letter-press invitation embellished with lilac colored motif that correspond with wedding theme

by Dauphine Press.

Price available upon request.

Lasso’d Moon photo credit: Sara Zarrella Photography Lovebirds- These exclusive golden lovebirds grace the corner of this invitation that’s backed by a light gold metallic stock and “Dahlia” envelofold. Prices start at $3.25 each, Enclosures priced separately.

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Wedding favors  out of town guest gifts

LAMOTHE’S SUGAR HOUSE    ,  

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CAKES

TheSweetestThing F

rom traditional multi-tiered white fondant cakes to lots of color and design variation, the trends for wedding cakes this year will run the gamut. There’s a little bit of everything, for every bride. One trend that La Bella Bride has noticed is that the designs on cakes are mimicking the bride’s gown. Maybe your gown has a lace overlay or some special beading. Let your cake decorator work his or her magic to make these details into edible art. It’s a great way to personalize your cake.

We’ve also noticed that brides aren’t shy about using color this year. If the signature color for your wedding was pink, then go for that pink cake. The days when a wedding cake had to be white are long gone. Today, it’s whatever the bride can dream up.

The only rule to remember this season is that there are no rules!

– Lindsey Aspinall Getz

Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite Cakes photo credit:

Jocelyn Filley Photography

A three tiered white fondant with light lime. Pink and white 5 petal sugar flowers with a light pearl finish and pearl border topped with a light lime loop bow, Cake is vanilla sponge with Tahitian butter cream and fresh strawberries. $10 per slice.

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Madame Butterfly Cakes photo credit:

Main Event Weddings

Whimsically romantic four-tiered almond butter cake with raspberry cream filling, decorated with lace, argyle and plaid rolled fondant and accented with handmade sugar peony flowers and buds. $15 per slice.

I Dream Of Jeanne Cakes photo credit:

Dan Doke Photography

Handmade sugar butterflies around a pink fondant cake. White genoise with passion fruit buttercream. $6 per slice.

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CAKES

Toria Dolce photo credit:

Kim Praast Photography

Small individual cake, starfish cookie and monogram cookie favor: mini cake is lemon zest cake with fresh raspberries, covered in French buttercream and fondant and decorated with a sugarpaste daffodil. $12 each. Starfish and monogram cookies are Irish shortbread with fondant and are used as favors for $5.95 each.

Water’s Edge Resort And Spa photo credit:

Jocelyn Filley Photography

A yellow cake with raspberry and white chocolate mousse. The cake is decorated with chocolate and ivory fondant with butter cream piping. $7 per slice.

Toria Dolce photo credit:

Kim Praast Photography

Almond cake, strawberry preserves, milk chocolate ganache and French vanilla buttercream, covered in dark chocolate fondant and piped with gold dots and sugarpaste cherry blossoms and leaves. $35 each for an 8 inch cake that serves 12.

Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite Cakes photo credit:

Jocelyn Filley Photography

A four tiered light ivory fondant with ivory and cocoa sugar flowers with chocolate leaves, complete with an ivory pearl border. It is a triple chocolate cake with espresso toffee crunch. $9 per slice.

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Madame Butterfly Cakes photo credit:

Main Event Weddings

Simply elegant, three tiers of devil’s food cake with caramel cream filling iced with mocha Buttercream and covered with soft green rolled fondant and accented with a lacy sugar ribbon and gerbera daisies. $12 per slice.

Scrumptions photo credit:

Main Event Weddings

The Wedding Dress Cake is finished in a rolled fondant with fondant pearls on the top three tiers and hand cut fondant pleats on the bottom tier.

The topper is gumpaste roses with fabric bows. The bottom tier also has handmade royal icing roses around the perimeter. $8.50 per slice.

I Dream Of Jeanne Cakes photo credit:

Dan Doke Photography

Pinwheel daisies in coral lend a touch of whimsy to an intricate band of color at the back of the tiers. Inside is luscious chocolate cake with a heath bar crunch buttercream. $8 per slice.

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CAKES

Toria Dolce photo credit:

Scrumptions

Dense chocolate cake, raspberry preserves, mocha buttercream and fondant with a small delicate 7 dot flower design, piped on the side. All of the flowers are made out of sugarpaste. $8 per slice.

James Hazelwood Photography

Kim Praast Photography

photo credit:

Flavors are alternating layers of strawberry, vanilla and chocolate cake filled with strawberry mousse, white chocolate mousse and milk chocolate mousse.

Vanilla buttercream frosted and finished with a vanilla rolled fondant. The bird topper and branches are handmade of fondant. $14 per slice.

Pat Lordan PhotograPhy

ExquisitE CakEs for ExquisitE oCCasions

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I Dream of Jeanne Cakes 978-869-6013

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LOVE STORY

July 11, 2009 redding, connecticut By Lindsey Aspinall Getz

1 14

S

helby and Matt would describe themselves as a pretty low key couple, which made the simple proposal everything Shelby could have wanted. “I’m personally not into big romantic gestures, so the way he proposed was perfect,” she says. “He came home after playing basketball and I was at the computer. He came into the room and asked me to turn around. When I swiveled my chair to face him, he got down on one knee, which was no easy feat considering he’d just played in a pretty physical game. He told me he’d loved me for a long time and wanted to know if I would spend the rest of my life with him. Of course I said ‘Yes!’ and then I asked him to please stand up because he looked like he was in pain!”

With plans to make it an outdoor summer wedding, Shelby knew she wanted a bright and cheery feeling to the affair, so she chose a color scheme of pink, orange and yellow. It was an

appropriate pick for the fun-loving couple. The ceremony and reception were both held at the home of Matt’s uncle. “He has a beautiful home in Redding, Connecticut,” says Shelby. “It was the perfect setting.”

Shelby’s two attendants wore Lazaro chiffon halter dresses in melon, sticking with the light and airy feel of the outdoor ceremony, which was performed in the garden. One hun-

buffet style dinner because we wanted people to be up and moving,” says Shelby. “We had guests from all over the country at the wedding and we wanted everyone to meet each other.”

For dessert, the couple chose a cupcake tower instead of the traditional wedding cake. “We selected two different flavors for the cupcakes— lemon cake with a raspberry frosting and a red velvet cake with a traditional

I’m not personally into big romantic gestures, so the way he proposed was perfect. dred guests watched as the bride’s father walked her down the aisle to the tune of Somewhere Over the Rainbow. “I liked it so much better than the traditional wedding march,” says Shelby.

Following the ceremony, a cocktail hour was held around the pool where guests sipped watermelon martinis and champagne. After enjoying drinks and a variety of appetizers like mini cheeseburgers, stuffed mushrooms and crab cakes, everyone moved into a nearby tent for the reception. The tent was adorned with hanging raspberry and orange colored Chinese lanterns, while raspberry hued linens with a sheer shimmery ivory overlay brightened the tables. The dinner menu included citrus boneless chicken with ranch drizzle, a rubbed sirloin and wood grilled vegetables, among many other choices. “We wanted to have a

butter cream frosting,” notes Shelby.

“The red velvet cupcakes were wrapped with a wide pale yellow ribbon with a thin orange ribbon over it and the lemon cupcakes were wrapped with a wide yellow ribbon with a thin pink ribbon over that. It was all delicious and so pretty!”

After a perfect wedding and reception, the couple honeymooned in St. Lucia at the Sandals Regency for nine days. Looking back, Shelby says the wedding was everything she could have wanted. “But I would have to say the best part of the entire day was being able to share it with all the people we love most,” she says. “We had guests from California, Colorado, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Rhode Island in attendance and the fact that they were willing to travel such distances to share the day with us was truly wonderful.”

even t p lanne r

P h otog rap h e r

F low e rs

Planned to Perfection plannedtoperfectionllc.com

Kim Praast Photography kimpraastphotography.com

Jessica’s Country Flowers jesscountryflowers.com

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LOVE STORY

&

Kassiane Michael Cranston, Rhode Island

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October 5, 2008 By steven sears

M

ichael and Kassiane met in the 8th grade at Western Hills Junior High School in Cranston, Rhode Island. Call them “Junior High Sweethearts.”

Michael remembers the day distinctly. “I asked Kassiane out the day after she got her braces off, and the rest is history. We cannot remember our first date, but have fond memories of growing up together.”

A long, loving relationship will do that to you – even when its long distance.

“It seems weird,” said Michael, a lawyer, “but looking back the majority of our relationship was spent at a long distance, and this is what we attribute our longevity to. When we were afforded the opportunity to see each other, we cherished every moment together. I would come home from New York where I was attending undergraduate school, then law school, for one week, and then she would come up a few weeks later.”

Kassiane and Michael loved to travel, and in the summer of 2006 visited Europe. The big question was would Michael pop the question, and where. Kassiane, a self employed hair

the park and stopped at the fountain, famous from the opening credits of the sitcom Friends. I asked her to marry me, and she said. ‘Yes!’ I did, however, forget to get down on my knee.”

The ceremony was held on October 5, 2008 at the Church of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Cranston where Kassiane’s Dad, Father Andrew, has served as priest for 26 years. After walking his lovely daughter down the aisle, Father Andrew then changed into his vestments to perform the ceremony. “Our ceremony,” recalls Michael, “was conducted by four priests, including Kassiane’s godfather and uncle, as well as a Bishop. It truly was a blessed occasion. Directly following the service, we had a champagne reception in the church hall, and from there we went to the State House to take our fabulous pictures.”

350 guests enjoyed both Greek and American dancing at the reception, and some of the couple’s fondest memories of the celebration occurred on the hardwood. The Grand Ballroom of the Warwick, Rhode Island Crowne Plaza was decorated beauti-

Falling in love with your best friend is a blessing

P h oto graphe r

Scolari Photography scolariphoto.com R ec e pt i o n S i t e

The Crowne Plaza crowneplaza.com/warwickri Br i da l Gown

Paloma Blanca palomablanca.com

stylist at Femme Fatale Salon in Providence, states that Michael “was clerking for a judge in London. I went to London to visit him at the end of his internship, and from there we proceeded to Paris where everyone anticipated him popping the question!

It would have been perfect. Michael’s plan was to ask for my hand in New Florist York, where our relationship Blooming Blossoms had blossomed.” blooming-blossoms.com Michael found the perfect c igar rol l ing diamond, indeed, in New Boston Cigar Factory York, and custom designed bostoncigarfactory.com her antique band in Italy. “We c h air covers headed to Central Park and I Couture Bridal found a horse and buggy. We couture-bridal.com took a romantic ride through

fully with ivory chair covers, and high and low floral extremely unique centerpieces, which contained asparagus, limes, grapes, plums and numerous flowers. The night was filled with handmade Greek and Italian pastries to represent both heritages.

“Falling in love with your best friend is a blessing,” says Kassiane.

“There is something to be said when the person your in love with knows you better than you know yourself.”

And don’t forget to take a good look around at the reception. “Remember that it is your day and you should enjoy every moment of it the way you want to.”

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The Fashionable

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Bride

Jenny Lee

V-neck halter embroidered sheath gown with detachable tulle train. Silk Charmeuse/ Silk Chiffon/Feathers. White, Ivory, Champagne. $5,160 Photography

Kim Praast Photography

As

the Fashion Director of Kleinfeld, I see almost 15,000 brides annually and truly have the honor of attending almost every runway show during bridal fashion week. I’d like to take you, the bride, with me to that front row seat and share with you my take of the trends for bridal 2010.

One of the hottest trends this season is dimension, texture, and lots and lots of ruffles!

Designers showed fabrics with raw cut edges, flowers, petals, pieces of folded and even shredded fabric floated off gossamer dresses making them light and airy and giving them a lot of movement.

As far as fabric trends go, tulle was definitely the fabric of the season! Designers tried to keep their dresses light, and almost all of them used tulle somewhere in their collection. Shear fabrics like tulle, organza, and chiffon, and lighter fabrics like taffeta, and silk shantung created full billowy skirts and floating trains.

Paying homage to Christian Dior and other designers from that era, the ball gowns from the 1950’s are definitely in! With natural waistlines and full skirts, they are re-inventing the looks

of Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn, but with a 2010 modernity. Keeping with this trend of the waspwaisted look, belts were extremely popular this season. Whether beaded, embroidered, or just plain, designers gave brides options to personalize their gowns easily with the addition of a belt or sash.

“Bling” is still alive and well! I saw lots of interesting beading, and Swarovski crystals covered gowns that sparkled like diamonds for the bride who definitely wants to make a “wow” statement and be that princess on her wedding day.

To sum this all up, the good news is that there is literally something out there for every bride! The other good news is that this season most designers sharpened their pencils when it came to pricing these gorgeous gowns, giving you couture looks at more reasonable prices.

My personal advice I most want to share with brides is that they need to think of their wedding as an expression of her and her fiancé’s “brand”, or their “bridal style”. You are stepping out in front of your guests, family, and friends as a couple; a new family unit that you have created. Are you a traditional couple? Are you understated? Are you modern and chic? Are you quirky and whimsical? Who are you and what story do you want your wedding to tell? My advice; have fun with it, be original, and be true to who you are!

-by Randy Fenoli

Tune in on Fridays to see Randy at 9 pm EST on the TLC hit show “Say Yes To The Dress”.

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St. Pucchi

Duchess satin ball gown with open back.

Bust area is encrusted with crystals. Full skirt is bustled. Price upon request.

Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

122

Anne Barge

Short ballerina gown with strapless bodice of metallic embroidered net and very full matching tulle skirt accented by a bow of latte iridescent silk taffeta. $1,750 Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

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Anne Barge Ball gown of blush silk satin with rouched strapless bodice and over drape on skirt accented by a garland of silk flowers. $5,490 Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

Anna Maier Ulla Maija

Clemence Crystal, a soft white duchess satin ball gown with dramatically draped skirt and hand embroidered bodice. $6,400 Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

125

St. Pucchi

Strapless Duchess Satin full ball gown with swirls of satin flowers decorating the full, bustled skirt, and accented with a ribbon at the waist. Shown with jacket. Prices upon request.

Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

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Justina McCaffrey

Diane is a light organza strapless empire, waist & skirt embellish, frayed and gathered with Swarovski crystal trim. $3,850 Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

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Justina McCaffrey

Sarah is a princess seamed delicate heart shaped neckline with voluminous pick up a-line skirt. $3,500 Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

Amsale Knee-length chiffon dress in blush. $330 Photography

Kim Praast Photography

128

Jenny Lee

Ruched v-neck, mini dress with detachable tulle train. Silk charmeuse, white, ivory, pink. $5,270 Photography

Kim Praast Photography

129

Justina McCaffrey

Andrea is a delicate heart-shaped satin drop waist with billowing pick up tulle with frayed rosette feathers, satin and crystal. $3,950 Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

St. Pucchi Full A-line gown features hand crafted Silk circular piping down the entire length of the gown. Scattered crystals complete the look.

Price upon request.

Photography

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Sara Zarrella Photography

St. Pucchi

Taffeta and Point d’Esprit fit and flare strapless gown with satin bands draped and tied at the bust. Black bow at back waist decorated with jewels, and crystal adorned streamer. Shown with jacket. Price upon request.

Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

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St. Pucchi

Duchess satin and Chantilly lace gown with sweetheart neckline, beaded halter straps and criss cross back. Price upon request.

Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

St. Pucchi

Satin Gown with Queen Anne Collar and low neckline. Embroidered and beaded sheer back bodice leads into a chapel train.

Price upon request.

Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

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Jenny Lee

Strapless chiffon-ruched bustier with ball gown skirt and tulle jacket. Silk tulle/ chantilly lace/alencon lace, in white or ivory. $10,870 Photography

Kim Praast Photography

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St. Pucchi

Hand embroidered ball gown features queen anne neckline with plunging front, keyhole back and dropped waist. Price upon request.

Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

Justina McCaffrey Bernice is a strapless asymmetrically draped drop-waist bodice with embellished side bows with taffeta draped ball gown skirt. $3,550 Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

134

St. Pucchi

Duchess satin ball gown with scoop neckline and corset bodice. Bust area is encrusted with draped strings of crystals, pearls, and bugle beads. Full skirt is bustled and has clusters of silk flowers. Price upon request.

Photography

Sara Zarrella Photography

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Melissa Sweet clockwise from top left:

Organza sleeveless dress with seam detailing and fabric flowers. $290 Cabernet Silk crinkle chiffon spaghetti strap gown with fabric petal details. $340 Photography

Kim Praast Photography

136

Priscilla of Boston from top left down:

Pewter Crinkle chiffon spaghetti strap gown with Empire waist and bow detail. $220 Watermelon Satin tank style V-neck dress.$200 Photography

Melissa Sweet above:

Majestic Silk organza sleeveless dress with full skirt. $290 Photography

Kim Praast Photography

Kim Praast Photography

137

Style

LaBella Loves…

T i f f a ny photo: Richard Pierce

Jean Schlumberger diamond and gemstone rings for Tiffany & Co. The rings feature gemstones of extravagant color saturation, cut and clarity. Four Flowers ring with cushion-cut aquamarine, 18k gold and platinum-set flowers; and extravagent leaves ring with radiant cushion-cut rubellite emerging from lush 18K gold leaves sparkling with platinum-set diamonds. Prices from top: $59,000, $54,000

T HE W HI T E D R E S S B Y T HE S H O R E photo: JUSTIN MARANTZ photography

Feather flower comb is by Kristine Eaton. $275

WEN N IA 2 4 S k i n S tr e n g t h e n i n g C o m p le X : S PA C E N K Available at Bloomingdales

Fig Cleansing Conditioner. A universal cleanser, which due to its rich, dense consistency, works exceptionally well to moisturize, hydrate and replenish dry, heat-damaged, color treated or dehydrated hair. $28/ 16 oz. bottle

A fortified cream that visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by enhancing the skin’s barrier function, accelerating repair and delivering continual moisturization. $85

Jemma Kidd BROW KIT: S PA C E N K Available at Bloomingdales

An all-in-one compact brow kit which is perfect for when you are on the move.

Contains tweezers to tame, blendable powders and a setting wax – everything you need for the perfect brows. $50

T HE W HI T E D R E S S B Y T HE S H O R E location: Lord Thompson Manor photo: Jocelyn Filley Photography

[left] Necklace of cornflake and fresh water pearls with Swarovski crystals by Homa Creations New York. $ 275 [right] Vintage graduated round pearl necklace with crystal roundels by DK. Price upon request

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B r i d a l F i n e ry photo: James Hazelwood Photography

Silver waves beaded clutch. $68

T HE W HI T E D R E S S B Y T HE S H O R E location: Lord Thompson Manor photo: Jocelyn Filley Photography

Hand-made Headband with Mother of Pearls and Swarovski crystals on twisted satin ribbons with a detachable cage veil by Maria Elena. $750

PA P E R M O O N I N V I TAT I O N S photo: Scolari Photography

Love is in the Air. You just said “I do” and now you’re off on your honeymoon. Travel in style with these luggage tags and passport holders. $48 for the Passport holders and $22.50 for the luggage tag set.

MOJUBA Mojuba Bride bags are filled with an abundance of thoughtfully chosen, chic, and must-have items so that couples can look back on their special day and say with confidence that everything was “perfect.” $275

MS. AND MRS. Behind every calm bride is a calm M.O.B. (mother-of-the-bride). So give moms peace of mind with the M.O.B. Survival Kit by Ms. & Mrs. This kit features a mother load (24, to be exact) of emergency essentials for the mother-of-the-bride, including tissues and waterproof mascara to keep teary eyes intact, a calculator to add last-minute expenses, and earplugs for those bridezilla moments. The matching gift tag reads, “Thanks, Mom. I couldn’t have survived without you.” $25

139

B r i d a l F i n e ry photo: James Hazelwood Photography

It takes three: Baguette crystal sprays.

Large piece can be worn as a hairpiece or a brooch. $108, Small pieces. $28 each

T HE W HI T E D R E S S B Y T HE S H O R E photo: Justin Marantz

ELEME N T AL HE R B O L O G Y : S P A C E N K

Brooch by DK Designs, $125

Available at Bloomingdales

[left] Sun Kiss Body Hydrator With Self-Tan Hydratant. Daily body hydrator containing an eco-certified self-tanning agent derived from sugar-beet.

The subtle tanning agent leaves skin with a beautifully hydrated, natural and healthy glow. $39 [right] Beach Prep. Elemental Herbology, exclusively available at Space NK, unveils Beach Prep, a powerful 3-in-1 action body polish that scrubs away dead skin cells with fruit enzymes and sea salt. The Buriti and Macadamia Oil intensely hydrate and nourish dry skin while Kombuchka and Fig extracts brighten the complexion and balance pigmentation. $37

Memorable...

Laughter Solid Perfume: S pa c e N K Available at Bloomingdales

Space NK’s iconic fine fragrance, Laughter is now available as a solid perfume. Housed in a sleek portable silver compact with a mirrored lid, Laughter is an alcoholfree version of the uplifting fragrance, the perfect travel companion. $45

CREATE LASTING MEMORIES ON YOUR SPECIAL DAY � � � � � �

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LOVE STORY

September 19, 2009 stonington, connecticut By Lindsey Aspinall Getz

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ndrea and Matthew had been friends for years. And one day their close relationship just found itself at a new level. It happened so gradually and comfortably that neither is exactly sure when they started dating or what their first date was! But they do know that it had been seven years of knowing each other and allowing their relationship to grow. In that time they developed a strong foundation on which to build the rest of their lives. Andie (as she’s known to friends and family) says: “When

When you get to marry your best friend, you are extremely fortunate.

P h otog ra p he r

you get to marry your best friend, you are extremely fortunate.”

In the same way their relationship carefully grew from friendship into love, Matt’s proposal was no overnight decision. His plans were in the works for months. On a visit to Ann Arbor, MI, where Andie had gone to college and where her maternal grandparents reside, Matt secretly asked Andie’s grandparents for their permission for her hand in marriage. “My grandfather told him ‘Of course, but why are you asking us?’” says Andie. “And Matt told them, ‘Because it all started with you.’ I had no idea he had done that, but when I found out I thought that was really special and it meant a lot to me.”

Matt also involved Andie’s younger sister in the proposal. While she was home visiting for the holidays he asked her to help him pick out the ring. Though he didn’t have the intention of proposing during the holidays, after helping select the perfect ring, Andie’s sister felt strongly that she wanted to be around for the proposal.

So, Matt proposed on Christmas. “His thoughtfulness for including my family and allowing my sister to share in the moment made it even more special,” recalls Andie. “We had finished opening gifts and it was just the two of us in the room at the time when he proposed. It was understated, which was perfect.”

The wedding ceremony and reception were both hosted on Elihu Island in Stonington, CT, for the “New England Oceanside wedding” the couple had always dreamed of. Menu items included New England specialties such as mini lobster rolls and a late night snack of mini grilled cheeses and demitasse cups of tomato soup. “When Matt and I first started hanging out we would go out to a local diner for some late night food,” says Andie. “I would always order grilled cheese! The caterer did a great job of incorporating foods that either had some special meaning to us or represented our families or heritage in some way.” There was a first-course of pumpkin soup that was Matt’s father’s own recipe, as well as a signature toast called “Belle Du Jour,” which was a champagne cocktail that Andie’s dad presented to the couple on the day they got engaged.

James Hazelwood jameshazelwood.com Cat e r e r

Gourmet Galley gourmet-galley.com F lor ist

Hana Floral hanafloraldesign.com V id eog ra p he r

Bellevue Productions bellevueproductions.com R e nta ls

Rentals Unlimited rentals-unlimited.net I nv itat io n s & Pro gra m s

Wendy Joblon Events wendyjoblon.com R ec e pt ion

Elihu Island Overall the weekend was packed with memories and a lot of special details, which Andie says are important to her and her mother, who helped bring some of Andie’s ideas to life. This included having guests sign a guitar instead of a guestbook—something Matt, a musician, really appreciated. “He had no idea that I bought the guitar for him as our guestbook so that was a fun surprise,” Andie remembers. “And it was really sweet at our brunch the next day when he played the guitar and sang to my grandmother.” Andie’s grandfather was also honored in a special way as she had asked him to walk her part way down the aisle.

What started as a wonderful wedding day had a memorable ending, Andie says. Matt jumped up on stage and sang the last verse of My Girl, the band’s closing song. “Matt is the lead singer in a band, but he had said he wasn’t going to sing at the wedding,” says Andie. “I guess the mood just struck him! It wasn’t planned. He just ran up there and asked to take the microphone. It was a really fun way to end a great night.”

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LOVE STORY

October 11, 2008 Bronxville, New York By phoebe brueckner

144

P h otog rap h e r

Jocelyn Filley Photography filleyphotography.com f lor ist

Steven Bruce Design stevenbrucedesign.com

flagstone patio and involved a slightly enhanced version of the basic vows.

Ca ke D e sig ne r Afterwards, guests moved inside the Main Course Catering maincourserestaurant.com house for hors d’oeuvres and then into the tent, which was set up next to the B r idal G own patio, for the reception.

Kleinfelds Elizabeth and her mother had Pnina Tornai picked out everything from the red pninatornai.co.il toile tablecloths to the silverware. b r id e sma id g ow ns Dinner was furnished by Main Course Amsale Catering, and focused on seasonal amsale.com foods with local providers. The almost unanimous choice of entrée was beef The wedding was a mere six lizabeth and Nick discovered tenderloin and vegetables from a local months later, in October of 2008.

The one another on match.com in 2003 and subsequently met for short engagement was actually helpful farm, which was followed by a plate of various New York cheeses. Inside the for planning, Elizabeth speculates, dinner a couple of times, the second tent, the simple lighting and unique because it prompted quick decision time being Christmas dinner with flower arrangements provided by making.

One of her first decisions of Elizabeth’s entire family. Since Nick Steven Bruce Design served to course was which dress she would is British and didn’t have plans, enhance the natural beauty of the fall wear.

Hoping to find something “I invited him over, and he came,” foliage, and later the full moon rising Elizabeth recalls. “he was such a good “simple yet elegant,” Elizabeth went overhead, visible through the clear with her parents to Kleinfeld’s in New sport.” Nick proved again on their ceiling of the tent.

York City, where she chanced upon third date, a cross-country skiing Although there are certain the perfect fit: a strapless Pnina Tornia excursion in Massachusetts, with difficulties in hosting a wedding at gown with an A-line skirt and corset temperatures reaching ten below. “I home, Elizabeth points out that tie and bow in back.

As for the didn’t plan for such a grueling “it does really free you to have an bridesmaids’ dresses, Elizabeth weekend,” Elizabeth insists, “but experience that is entirely yours and encouraged her two sisters to pick out the weather turned against us.” that really can be what you want it to their own because, she reasoned, Nevertheless, Nick, who had never be.” In Elizabeth and Nick’s case the “they’re beautiful, they’ll be beautiful been skiing before, had a great time, greatest obstacle was nothing more in anything.” They decided upon enthusiastic and cheerful through it matching strapless Amsale dresses in a than figuring out how to get the right all. Veritably, Elizabeth concluded, sized tent. Of course, Elizabeth deep purple.

Nick was “something special.”

Even though the couple had “certainly talked about it enough” and realized that their relationship was headed in that direction, the proposal itself came as a surprise.

The wedding weekend commenced acknowledges, this day would not One April day while they were walking with a Friday evening rehearsal dinner have been possible had her parents in the nature preserve near their not so graciously hosted. Surely it at a local Italian restaurant in house, Nick pulled ahead with the helped also to have good weather, dogs. When Elizabeth caught up with Bronxville, New York. The following which fortunately did not turn against day Elizabeth and Nick were married them she discovered a diamond ring them this time. “It was one of the in what had turned out to be the attached to one of the dogs’ leashes most gorgeous days,” Elizabeth perfect place: her parents’ backyard. and found Nick down on one knee. declares, “We could not have ordered Elizabeth’s aunt officiated the When he asked if she would marry a more perfect day.” ceremony, which took place on the him she replied, “Yes, of course.”

E

..the natural beauty of the fall foliage, and later the full moon rising overhead

145

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Men

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MO J UBA The Mojuba Groom bag comes lined in either lime green or tangerine, can easily convert into a handsome briefcase by tucking the strap inside. Filled with an abundance of thoughtfully chosen, chic, and must have items so that couples can look back on their special day and say with confidence that everything was “perfect.” $275

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This modern scent has become an instant classic. SPACE. NK.MAN is a clean yet rich, spicy and woody Oriental with a heart of cedar wood, patchouli, fir balsam and musk, refreshed with bergamot, lavender and cinnamon, and enriched with nutmeg and clove. $75

the best man’s handbook Available at Papermoon Invitations The book no best man should be without when his guy is getting married. $12.95

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Home

LaBella Loves‌

T i f f an y photo: Richard Pierce

Bowl in sterling silver, signed by Frank Gehry. $100,000

T i f f an y photo: Richard Pierce

Tiffany champagne flutes. [left to right] Classic Trumpet $40, Sommeliers full lead crystal $55, hand-blown fine Swedish crystal from the Classic Wine collection $80, Pearl Flute $95.

PA P E R M O O N I N V I TAT I O N S photo: Scolari Photography

This bottle platter is perfect for any occasion. Use it for cheese, sushi, fruit, olives, butter, a spoon rest, or even for candles. Assorted colors. $15.50

T i f f an y photo: Richard Pierce

J u l is k a photo: Scolari Photography

Isabella Large Cake Dome: Dome only is $255, the Isabella Cake Pedestal is $220. $475 for set.

148

Tiffany’s sterling silver Audubon (c. 1871) flatware pattern remains one of the most popular of all Tiffany patterns, featuring intricate designs adapted from nineteenth century Japanese bird paintings. Each piece is a work of art, with an exotic bird on the front and an exquisitely rendered flower on the back. Eight different Japanese birds and flowers are depicted. The pattern complements traditional as well as contemporary table settings. [left to right] $105, $135, $115, $325, $110

NAMBE [top left] Mikko salt & pepper. $100 [Bottom left] butterfly salad bowl & server. $175 [right] Twist coaster set & cocktail shaker. $145

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editorial index

Accessories Admac Salvage admacsalvage.com

Kate Spade katespade.com

Event Decor

Favors

Cakes

Gourmet Galley gourmet-galley.com

KM Design Studio kmdesignstudio.net

A Dozen Eggs adozeneggs.com

Cakes to Remember cakestoremember.biz

Tables of Content tablesofcontent.com

PBD Events partybydesign.com

Style

Tom’s Market tomsmarket.com

RC Uplighting rcuplighting.com

Chair Covers

Event Design & Planning

Grove Boutique www.grovenyc.com

Melissa Sweet priscillaofboston.com

Thebault Design thebaultdesign.com

Priscilla of Boston priscillaofboston.com

Bridal Gown Designers

Anna Maier, Ulla Maija ulla-maija.com Carolina Herrera carolinaherrera.com Jenny Lee jennyleebridal.com Justina McCaffrey mccaffreyhautecouture.com Maggie Sottero maggiesottero.com Melissa Sweet priscillaofboston.com Simone Carvalli simonecarvalli.com

Catering

Chapins chapinsrestaurant.com

Amsale amsale.com

Anne Barge annebarge.com

Jan Boyd Calligraphy janboyd.com

Blackstone Catering blackstonecatering.com

Bridesmaid Gowns

Felicia’s Bridal feliciasbridal.com

Alexandra’s Boutique alexandrasbridalboutique.com

Calligrapher

db photogr aphy

Couture Bridal couture-bridal.com

Bridal Shoe Designers

Carlos Bakery carlosbakery.com Creative Baking creativebaking.com I Dream of Jeanne Cakes jtcakes.com Jacques Pastries jacquespastries.com Madame Butterfuly Cakes madamebutterflycakes.com McArthur’s Bakery mcarthurs.com Main Course Catering maincourserestaurant.com Scrumptions scrumptions.com

A Thyme to Cook athymetocook.com

Couture Bridal couture-bridal.com

Cigar Rolling Boston Cigar Factory bostoncigarfactory.com

Cinematography Boston Wedding Films bostonweddingfilms.com

Cruise Line Royal Caribbean, Mariner of the Seas royalcribbeancruises.com

Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite Cakes sweetlisas.com

Entertainment

Paloma Blanca palomablanca.com Platinum priscillaofboston.com

Sugarbelle sugarbellecakes.com

Murray Hill Talent murrayhilltalent.com

Pnina Tornai pninatornai.co.il

The Icing on the Cake theicingonthecake.com

The Rhythm Shop therhythmshopband.com

St. Pucchi stpucchi.com

Toria Dolce toriadolce.com

Tony Boffa Band tonyboffa.com

Main Event Weddings maineventweddings.com

Castle & Pierpont castlepierpont.com Dana Markos Events danamarkosevents.com Events by Sharon’s Daughter eventsbysd.com Josie Littlepage cosmopolitanevents.com Planned to Perfection plannedtoperfectionllc.com Raina Dawn Events rainadawnevents.com Rountree Flowers rountreeflowers.com SD Events simpledetailsevents.com Sixpence for Your Shoe sixpenceevents.com Stone Event Planning stoneeventplanning.com Storied Events storiedevents.com The Perfect Plan theperfect-plan.com Toni Chandler tonichandlerflorals.com

main event weddings

Unique Weddings

by Alexis weddingsbyalexis.com

Belle Chambre bellechambre.com Bloomingdales bloomingdales.com Bridal Finery bridalfinery.com Elemental Herbology elementalherbology.com Jemma Kidd JemmaKidd.com Juliska juliska.com Lladro lladro.com Mariposa mariposa-gift.com Mojuba mymojuba.com MS. & MRS. msandmrs.com Nambe nambe.com Pangea nokonabrands.com Space NK SpaceNK.com The White Dress

by The Shore thewhitedressbytheshore.com Tiffany & CO. tiffany.com Vie Luxe International vieluxenyc.com Wen WenHairCare.com

151

Floral Design Atmosphere & Floral Design by Tammy Becker tammybecker.com Bel Fiore Floral Studio belfiorefloral.com Blomma Flicka Flowers blommaflicka.com Blooming Blossoms blooming-blossoms.com Botanica botanicainc.com Chestnuts In The Tuileries chestnutsnyc.com Conceptual Image Design conceptualimagedesigns.com Cote Fleurie Studio cotefleuriestudio.com Datura, A Modern Garden amoderngarden.com Dragonfly dragonflyevent.com East End Flower Shop eastendflowershopvi.com

Meredith Fancy flowersbyfancy.com Orchids ‘n’ Bloom orchidsnblooms.com Perennial Studio perennialstudio.com Renny & Reed RennyandReed.com Rountree rountreeflowers.com Soiree Floral soireefloral.com Stems Floral Design stemsflowerdesign.com Steven Bruce Design stevenbrucedesign.com The Blue Toad bluetoadflowers.com The Painted Tulip paintedtulipvt.com The Pink Shutter pinkshutter.com

Groom’s Attire Calvin Klein calvinklein.com

Flora Latté ehfloral.com

Carl Anthony Tuxedo carlanthonytuxedo.com

Floral Artistry

by Allison Ellis floralartvt.com

Hugo Boss hugoboss.com

Flowers by Semia flowersbysemia.com Flowerthyme flowerthyme.com Golden Gate Studios goldengatestudio.com Hana Floral hanafloraldesign.com James Francois-Pijuan Event Décor francois-pujuan.com Jeffrey’s Flowers Jeffreysflowersprofile.com Jessica’s Country Flowers jesscountryflowers.com

Men’s Wearhouse menswearhouse.com

Hair & Makeup

Pierre Herme pierreherme.com positano Le Sirenuse sirenuse.it

Photographers

carribean Sandals sandals.com

[b]ecker thebecker.com

st. lucia La Toc Golf Resort & Spa sandals.com/main/lucia/ lu-home.cfm the adirondacks The Point thepointresort.com

anguilla Malliouhana malliouhana.com

Laurelwood Designs laurelwoodesigns.com

bermuda bermudatourism.com

Stems Floral stemsflowerdesign.com

hawaii Mauna Kea Beach princeresortshawaii.com new york Mohonk Mountain House mohonk.com

BKB Photography bkbphoto.com Brea McDoanld Photography breamcdonald.com

Havana Blue Restaurant havanabluerestaurant.com Liberty House libertyhouserestaurant.com Lord Thompson Manor lordthompsonmanor.com Omni Parker House omniparkerhouse.com Providence Biltmore providencebiltmore.com

Elegant Bliss elegantbliss.com

The Chanler thechanler.com

Images by Berit imagesbyberit.com

The Chase Park Plaza chaseparkplaza.com

James Hazelwood Photography jameshazelwood.com

The Crowne Plaza crowneplaza.com/ warwickri

Jocelyn Filley Photography filleyphotography.com

The Pitcher Inn pitcherinn.com

Kassie LaFazia Photography

The State Room longwoodevents.com

Kim Praast Photography kimpraastphotography.com

Wave Hill wavehill.org

Main Event Weddings maineventweddings.com

Water’s Edge Resort & Spa watersedgeresort.com

Smashing Cards smashingcards.com

Nadra Edgerly nadraphotography.com

Rentals

Wendy Joblon Events wendyjoblon.com

Person + Killian Photography personkillian.com

virgin gorda Biras Creek biras.com

Invitations/Paper Admire Design, LLC admiredesignllc.com Haute Papier hautepapier.com Lasso’d Moon lmdinvitations.com

pamela d’orsi ryan events & papers pdrevents.com

angkor wat Grand Hotel d’Angkor raffles.com

Adeline & Grace Weddings adelineandgraceweddings.com

Glen Manor House glenmanorhouse.com

Dan Doke Photography dandoke.com

Artworx artworxhairdesign.com

Honeymoon Destinations

International Catering Association Award Winner “Most Innovative Food Trend” 2006 and “Most Innovative Mixology” 2008

provincetown The Lands End Inn landsendinn.com

Papermoon Invitations papermoonstationery.com

bali Four Seasons Sayan fourseasons.com

152

paris Pavillon de la Reine pavillon-de-la-reine.com

I Do Hair & Makeup idohairandmake-up.com

Just for You Floral Design justforyouweddings.com

Lougee & Fredricks lougeefrederick.net

northern california Les Mars Hotel lesmarshotel.com

C at er i n g

editorial index

Lighting

Bayside Tent baysidetent.com Broadway Party Rentals broadwaypartyrentals.com

Big Wave Events bigwaveevents.com

Richard Pierce richardpiercephoto.com

Granville Rental granvillerental.com

Linens

Sara Zarrella Photography sarazarrella.com

Rentals Unlimited rentals-unlimited.net

Scolari Photography scolariphoto.com

Rhode Island Rentals rirental.com

Zev Fisher Photography zevfisher.com

Ruth Fischl ruthfischl.com

Reception Sites

Wedding Tents and Events weddingstentsevents.com

BBJ Linen bbjlinen.com Festive Occasions festiveoccasions.com Wildflower Linens wildflowerlinens.com

Castello di Monterone castellomonterone.it Colonnade Hotel colonnadehotel.com

e v e n t pla n n i n g

ca k es

www.jasonroseman.com Toll Free: 866-826-7731

B!ov!V!tbmpo

christy-lee.net

IBJS/GBDF/OBJMT/NBTTBHF

3\dWaW]\ O <Se G]c

On- & Off-site Hair and Makeup Art Servicing Rhode Island, Massachusetts & Connecticut

972!Sftfswpjs!Bwf Dsbotupo!SJ!13:21 512/:57/74:9

Custom Handmade Invitations & Stationery BENJSFEFTJHOMMD DPN

info@christy-lee.net (401)477-4323

la n dscape arch i t ec t u re

I.B.O.P.

Steel Pan Drum Music for all Occasions

Soloists to ten pieces Swing, Society and Classic Rock for listening or dancingâ&#x20AC;Ś G. Andrew Maness Newport 401.847.4416 Boston 617.482.3234 Cape Cod 508.457.1583 www.fourguysintuxes.com

v i de o graph y

e n t er ta i n me n t ha i r & ma k e u p i n v i tat i o n s ph o t o graph y

Jason Roseman

m a g m a d e s i g n g ro u p , i n c L AN D S C AP E A RC HI T ECTURE AN D C ON STRUCTI ON WWW.M AGM ADESI GNGROUP.COM 800.722.6181

shvideography.com 978.531.7236

Award Winning Wedding & Event Productions 153

LOVE STORY

&Kane

Christin

August 2, 2008 St Louis, Missouri By Lindsey Aspinall Getz

154

K

ane and Chrissy had known each other for ages.

Their parents were good friends and the two practically grew up together, participating in family vacations and get-togethers since childhood. But because Kane was four years older, the friendship had never turned romantic. “We were just at different stages in life,” says Chrissy. “He was in college when I was in high school and then he was working when I was in college.”

But one day that all changed. Kane was living in Florida but had come to St. Louis to visit Chrissy’s brother, who was in the hospital. Afterward, Chrissy and Kane went out for lunch – which ultimately turned into spending the entire day together. “It was actually a little weird for us to realize we had feelings for each other, after we’d been friends our whole life,” she laughs. “But it was just so comfortable. It was so easy to hang out and we got along so well.”

After almost two years of a long-distance relationship, Kane proposed. “I was finishing up nursing school at the time and had just gotten back from a long day at the hospital,” says Chrissy. “Kane had filled my apartment with rose petals and candles and had the ring sitting out. He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.”

Just a short six months later the couple made it official.

The outdoor ceremony was held at Forest Park in St. Louis.

While the temperature was in the 90s, Chrissy says she was too happy to worry about the heat. “I was thankful that the guys had picked out tan suits instead of black, so it was a little less hot for them,” she says. “But I was so excited that I wasn’t thinking much about the weather.”

In addition to special touches such as Chrissy’s best friend singing at the wedding, and a fantastic string quartet, the ceremony

also included a meaningful tribute to Chrissy’s brother, who had passed away. “We released doves in honor of him, and in honor of other relatives that had passed away and couldn’t be there with us,” she says.

Following the ceremony, guests headed to the nearby Chase Park Plaza Hotel, where the reception was held in the top-floor Starlight Room. Instead of a traditional sit-down dinner, the pair had food stations arranged all over the room. “We even had a guy outside barbequing,” says Chrissy. “I wanted to give guests an opportunity to mingle more so there was no assigned seating either. It was more of a party than a formal dinner.”

That party included a fabulous martini station with an ice sculpture and green martinis nicknamed “Kaltinis,” after the couple’s new, shared last name. Adding to the fun, the bridal party selected their own songs to be introduced with. As they were announced with their song, they each had a dance to perform for guests. Of course, the bride and groom were not to be outdone! While they started their first dance off to a traditional slow song, that music came to a screeching halt and a fun, faster song piped over the speakers while Chrissy and Kane performed a pre-choreographed dance!

Fun was most definitely the theme of this reception and the couple didn’t stop smiling all night. It’s pretty certain the guests had a blast, too. After all the excitement from the day, the couple took a relaxing honeymoon in Hawaii.

“It was beautiful,” says Chrissy. “We surfed, mountain biked, went horseback riding and spent a lot of time on the beach. It was romantic and fun, and we really just enjoyed each other’s company.”

It was more of a party than a formal dinner.

P h otog ra p he r

BKB Photography bkbphoto.com Eve nt P la n n e r

Josie Littlepage cosmopolitanevents.com R ec e pt io n

The Chase Park Plaza chaseparkplaza.com F lor ist

Jeffrey’s Flowers jeffreysflowersprofile.com V id eog ra p he r

Copy Cat Video copycatvideo.com Ca ke

McArthur’s Bakery mcarthurs.com 155

LOVE STORY

Marjan

Matthew

May 30, 2009 waterford, connecticut By P ho ebe bruEc kn er

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arjan had never initiated contact with anyone online before, but when she saw Matthew’s profile on nerve.com she couldn’t resist. It was apparent that they shared a similar sense of humor and, she adds, “It didn’t hurt that he was awfully cute.” Matthew, who was putting the finishing touches on his dissertation at the time, was attracted by the witty and sophisticated banter they exchanged in their emails. “I crawled out of my cave for that date,” he remembers, “and when I met her I thought she was very beautiful and a lot of fun. We made a connection pretty quickly.”

concluded with a farewell tour of DC before going out for dinner.

Almost exactly a year later, on May 30, 2009, the couple was married In Waterford, Connecticut at the Eolia Mansion in Harkness Memorial State Park. “Talia Fedorowich, our wedding planner, found it for us,” Matthew says, “She found everything for us, and everything she found was perfect.”

One thing Talia did not find, however, was Marjan’s dress. Marjan had seen a picture of the strapless Carolina Herrera gown online and, she says, “ I loved it so much I tracked it down.” Bridesmaids’ dresses, on the other hand, were a non-issue, as there

...she was very beautiful and a lot of fun.

We made a connection pretty quickly.

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By the next summer, Matthew claims, he was already thinking about a lifetime commitment, “but neither of us was in a hurry to get married.” Later on, though, when Matthew got a job offer in Connecticut, Marjan quickly realized that she was “willing to leave everything and move with him.”

Matthew knew that he wanted to propose near a body of water and also, preferably, “at a place that has no chance of disappearing,” So the evening of the proposal, after picking her up in a town car, Matthew took Marjan to the tidal basin overlooking the Jefferson Memorial, which is her favorite. On the way there they watched the slideshow Matthew had made, which consisted of a couple hundred photos of their happiest moments together. “Luckily for him,” Marjan says, “we got stuck in rush hour traffic so we were able to watch the whole thing.” Upon arriving at the memorial Matthew presented the ring, which he had designed with a jeweler in New York. The evening

was no bridal party. Once you reach a certain age, Marjan explains, it becomes too hard to pick. Instead, she says, “we each have a younger brother with whom we’re very close, and they stood for us under the chuppah.”

Although neither of them are religious Matthew and Marjan found a way to incorporate elements from their respective heritages into the ceremony. It began under a chuppah with Matthew’s father presiding and then moved to a Persian ceremonial table where all their close female friends participated in “sprinkling sweetness” onto a cloth held above their heads. The ceremony then ended back under the chuppah with the Justice of the Peace where vows were exchanged.

Marjan and Matthew both agree that the weekend was remarkable; “we just thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and everyone’s company. We felt really present, and it was just a great feeling.”

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LOVE STORY

&

Erika Matthew

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october 24, 2009 Cedar Key, Florida By nayda rondon

I wanted to meet him right then and there… said he wasn’t leaving until he’d met me. One week later we had our first date and we’ve been together ever since!”

Erika and Matt soon realized they had something special. Matt was ready to spend the rest of his life with Erika and he wasn’t going to let anything – not fear of rejection or even the forces of Nature – stop him from proposing.

The wedding of close friends in romantic ll it took was one look across a crowded New Orleans provided the perfect opportunity bar for Matt to feel the jolt of attraction. and setting for Matt’s own matrimonial plans.

“She was tall and beautiful, and I The night before he and Erika were to fly to New couldn’t stop glancing over at her,” Matt recalls Orleans, Matt secretly drove two hours to the of his first sighting of Erika. He pointed her home of Erika’s parents to ask for their blessing. out to his buddies, wishing and watching for Once in the Big Easy, it was simply a matter of a chance to approach her. Meanwhile, Erika – finding the right moment. enjoying drinks with a girlfriend – was unaware “We walked around the French Quarter to that love was about to walk into her life. take in the sights and shop,” Erika says. They Or was it? After vainly trying to muster the stopped to rest at a garden bench in Jackson courage to make his move, Matt reluctantly let Square. Remembering that earlier in the day his buddies convince him to try another bar. It they’d bought laces for Matt's shoes, Erika seemed this was one love story that was ending offered to help him re-lace them. “I placed one before it had begun. However, fate offered them a of his shoes on my lap and as I worked on lacing second chance by throwing them together again. it, I realized out of the corner of my eye that he “My friend and I ended up at the same second was kneeling in front of me,” Erika recalls. “I bar about an hour and a half later,” Erika says. didn't look up because I thought he was working There she noticed Matt for the first time. “I on his other shoe. After a few seconds I realized wanted to meet him right then and there.” The he wasn’t moving so I looked up to find him couple exchanged glances, but Matt still smiling at me. I don't remember what he said. I hesitated, so Erika made the first move. She do remember thinking he was teasing me until walked up next to him at the bar and ordered a he pulled out the ring. The moment I knew it drink, giving him ample opportunity to turn was real, I started crying.” around. He didn’t. “I gave up and walked back to This time Matt had timed things perfectly. my friend.”

Hurricane Gustav was making its way to New The glances continued and finally Matt, being Orleans. “Hotels, shops and restaurants were urged to leave again by his friends, walked over boarding up windows all around us,” Erika to Erika and said, “I don’t want to bother you relates. “It was a not-so-subtle hint that we and I’m not going to ask for your number but I’d should leave – fast.” Luckily, the couple like to tell you my name in case I see you again.” managed to safely evacuate on a standby flight Erika’s response: “I’ve been noticing you for to Orlando. Yet despite the danger and drama, the last 45 minutes, so why are you leaving?”

Erika and Matt insist “we enjoyed every minute That was all the encouragement Matt needed. of our trip!”

“He had kept his friends at the bar for that That same joyful determination to make the whole time just to get the nerve to introduce most of whatever life throws their way will no himself. They were supposed to leave the doubt serve them well as they face their married moment I entered, but when he saw me again he life together.

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P h oto graphe r

Sara Zarrella Photography sarazarrella.com R ec e pt i o n

Home of groom’s father and stepmother F lor i st

Prange’s Florist pranges.com Cate r er

The Island Room islandroom.com

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LOVE STORY

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Talia Scott november 12, 2008 St. Thomas, Virgin Islands By lindsay Aspinall Getz

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Wıthin two weeks I told my mom that I thought Scott was the one… waiting for us with flowers and we got to celebrate with them.”

P h otog rap h e r In planning for the weddng, the Zev Fisher Photography zevfisher.com pair decided they wanted a celebration that would last longer than one day, R ec e pt ion Sit e so they opted for a cruise. Sailing from Havana Blue Restaurant havanabluerestaurant.com Port Canaveral, Florida to the Caribbean on Royal Caribbean’s F lor ist Mariner of the Seas, the couple was East End Flower Shop eastendflowershopvi.com joined by about 50 of their closest friends and family. “That included my C ruis e L ine family from Israel, which was really Royal Caribbean, Mariner of the Seas special, as well as Scott’s 90-year-old royalcaribbeancruises.com grandmother, who had never been on a cruise before,” says Talia.

On the first night onboard, Scott and Talia had everyone get together for a “meet and mingle” so that the two sides could get to know one any sons and daughters can celebration when he finished. “Scott relate to this scenario: At a made reservations for Top of the Hub another better. “Everyone clicked so well,” remembers Talia. certain age their moms start restaurant at the Prudential Center,” About mid-way through the cruise, talking about marriage. Some of those says Talia. “He had reserved us a table moms even help with the search for overlooking the entire city. Of course I at a stop in St. Thomas, the couple had their ceremony and reception.

“Miss or Mr. Right.” You don’t often was oblivious to the fact that this was They were married at St. Thomas hear about those persistent moms that anything more than just a celebration Synagogue, a national Historic are successful in their efforts! That’s that his exam was finished.”

Landmark. “It’s said to be the oldest exactly the case for Scott and Talia.

When dessert came, Scott insisted synagogue still in continuous use,” “When we were both 23-years-old, she order something. “I love desserts says Talia. “There was definitely our mothers started telling us it was and he said I should have something something magical about the place.” time to meet someone special,” recalls special,” she recalls. “As we were Following the ceremony, taxis Talia. “So they both signed us up for talking, the waiter came up behind me shuttled guests to Havana Blue J-Date [a website for Jewish singles] and set down this huge platter with an Restaurant for the reception. “It was and even paid for our memberships.” array of all kinds of desserts. In While both Talia and Scott were chocolate syrup it was written: ‘Talia, an open air restaurant, right on the beach,” says Talia. “It was perfect. skeptical, they gave it a shot. “On our will you marry me?” first date we just really hit it off,” says While she was staring at the platter I couldn’t have imagined anything Talia. “We had so much in common in shock, Scott got down on one knee. better.”

Talia adds that she and Scott aren’t and within two weeks I had told my “I honestly can’t remember much of shy about giving their mothers credit mom very seriously that I thought what he said,” she laughs. “I was so for bringing the two together, and Scott was the one I would marry.” happy and still in shock.”

That next step came sooner than After the proposal, Scott told Talia allowing their amazing wedding week to happen. “If it wasn’t for them, we Talia could have imagined — only five that their night wasn’t over yet. “Our wouldn’t be together,” she admits. “It months later. Scott had been spending first date was at the Cheesecake worked out for us — and for them!” a lot of time studying for his GMAT Factory, so he took me there next,” exam and the two had planned a Talia remembers. “Our families were

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DB Photography

Keep the Passion…

Boost the Romance…

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re you feeling there are fewer free hours to simply relax and enjoy an agenda free moment?

As appointments mount up and social demands increase, you may be wondering, “Where’s the romance?”

Don’t fret. Romance is within reach, if you just know where to look. We polled some of our favorite wedding experts, and then developed our own easy-to-incorporate quick fixes, to decompress your life—all geared to boost romance, too!

Sweets For the Sweet. “A chocolate mousse remains one of the most romantic foods I know. You can serve it any number of ways, warm or chilled with whipped cream, either plain or with a great flavored sauce, perhaps one with hazelnuts or rum. Even if you’re just learning to cook, a meal served to a loved one is an act of devotion and is a wonderfully creative way to demonstrate love. Taking cooking classes together also can be

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By E. Bingo Wyer

DB Photography

We polled some of our favorite wedding experts, and then developed our own easy-to-incorporate quick fixes, to decompress your life—all geared to boost romance, too! romantic for the creative types who love the adventure food can bring. There’s a reason why people gather in the kitchen. Food is a great romantic force for all. The kitchen is the heart of any home.” —Jeanne Topham, owner of I Dream of Jeanne Cakes in Andover, MA.

Cruise Control. Take a romantic drive. It’s an easy end of the week thing to do on a Friday or Saturday afternoon. No cell phone, no Blackberry, no

interruptions from the outside world. Choose an off-the-beaten track beautiful country side road; enjoy the vistas, even a spectacular orange and purple sunset.

Turn off the radio with annoying jingles and depressing news updates. Instead, bring your own soft music. It may sound corny but Timeless: “The Great Romantic Standards”, by Time Warner mixes a collection of artists that ranges from Boz Scaggs, Natalie Cole and Dusty Springfield to Barry Manilow’s I’ll Never Smile Again (with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, who knew?) and Cyndi Lauper riffing like a more modern day Edith Piaf with a plaintive La Vie En Rose.

Epic Escape. Make a Friday date with your fiance and get a epic flick both you and he can enjoy. We suggest you settle back for a lush 4 hour screening of David Lean’s Doctor Zhivago, based on the 1957 novel by Boris Pasternak. The demanding action incorporates thrilling drama, war and revolution. Set in Russia during the early 20th century, the tumultuous period of 1912-1925 sweeps through World War I, the Russian Revolution and Civil War as the regime of Tsar Nicolas II is overthrown. The 1965 masterpiece, directed by the Academy Award winning British cinematic visionary David Lean, is one of the last films to legitimately boast “a cast of thousands.” Chill the Russian vodka, make blinis during the film’s intermission, and grab some caviar. Be sure to have some blankets nearby for the blizzard scenes.

The Gift of Girlfriends. “Take an afternoon to de-stress. Meet your girlfriends for a manicure and then host a ladies’ lunch in the afternoon. Simple but delicious finger sandwiches, fruit and some champagne. A caterer can bring them to your home where you just relax, chat, laugh and enjoy an afternoon without pressure. The ladies’ table setting can evoke a romantic era such as Victorian times with pretty napkins and a small bouquet on the table. Check cell phones and Blackberries at the door and just enjoy each other’s company.” —Linda DeFranco Barck, owner of Boston catering company, Tables of Content.

Nosegay Necessities. Blossoms transport us back through time when a simple fragrant posy, a hand tied

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Here are La Bella’s Best Half Dozen Romantic Comedies of all time:

Breakfast At Tiffany’s

Blake Edwards’ classic 1961 delicious and witty soufflé of panache and style with Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard explains why tourists today still think one can enjoy a muffin and coffee at Fifth Avenue’s best known purveyors of diamonds. Pay attention to the opening.

You’ll see Manhattan’s most famous avenue was once two way.

Some Like It Hot

A 1959 farcical mix of roaring 1920’s perfection from director genius Billy Wilder with cross dressers Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon playing musicians on the run from the mob, being comforted by two unlikely buddies: ethereal Marilyn Monroe and amiable Joe E. Brown. Shot at San Diego’s Hotel led Coronado, which remains a great wedding venue and honeymoon destination, even in 2010!

Moonstruck

A 1987 breakaway hit by Normal Jewison with Cher playing a widowed Brooklyn book-keeper who is torn between her fiancé (Danny Aiello) and his brother (Nicholas Cage). But the movie’s tag line that suggests viewers will learn what matters most: Life, family, love.

High Fidelity

A 2000 sleeper hit by Stephen Frears who serves up a very funny John Cusack as record store owner Rob, a compulsive list maker, who faces fear of commitment and true love all within 113 minutes, along with a happy, upbeat ending.

Sense & Sensibility

Jane Austen’s classic, directed by Ang Lee offers a beautiful tale punctuated with surprises and laughter as three 19th century daughters seek to find stability in society through the only means afforded women at that time: marriage. Can true love prevail? Through the hardships and heartbreak, true love and a happy ending inform both sisters who is all sense and who is all sensibility. The 1995 film offers Kate Winslet, Emma Thompson and Hugh Grant.

Splash

Can a man, played by Tom Hanks, once saved from drowning by a mermaid, find his true love and swim away happily ever after? Director Ron Howard, like many of us, prefers happy endings and along the way, there are plenty of laughs to this 1984 “tail,” worn beautifully by Daryl Hannah.

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small bouquet, communicated a hidden message to a beloved. Today, many flowers are grown to have a longer shelf life. The downside? Many are bereft of scent. Work with old fashioned blooms, such as those from cattleya orchids. Even the hybrids offer a wonderful fragrance. We nominate another group of old fashioned sweet smelling blossoms which, with advance notice, your florist can order: jasmine, gardenia, freesia. Place them in small vases around your bedroom, drape the jasmine vine over your night table, slip onto your bed, close your eyes. Breathe. — Carrie Leining of Stems Floral in Connecticut.

Other Scents-ible Indulgences. If fresh flowers are too transitory, aromatherapy can transport you within minutes! It’s a clever way for the mind and body to relax and simply leave behind the daily strife. Orange blossom, sandlewood, violet, iris, or bergamot are classic scents. Surf over to Vie Luxe International, www. vieluxenyc.com. Their St. Barth’s and Palm Beach offerings (votive trios, deluxe candles or three wick candles) are best sellers among 2010 brides. For those who want to wear the scent, K. Hall designs features Egyptian Jasmine, known as the oil of love, easily dispensed via a variety of luxurious options: bath salts, solid perfume, triple milled soaps, shea butter lotion and creams.

Slip Into Something Comfortable. Time to toss the frayed and faded PJ’s. Instead, invest in new comfort via a well kept southern secret: Atlanta based Belle Chambre. Here personal relaxation is guarded as if it were a lost art. They’ve mastered on line shopping better than most, their staff is well informed and can guide you without pressure. Their bed linens are super soft and PJ’s are super comfy, many with drawstring waists and fabrics of micro cottons, or the slightly dressier cotton sateen as featured in their Madagascar PJ’s.

Mad Hatter Time. 2010 is the year for herb and tea infusions. Chic bars from Hong Kong to Paris to New York know infusion based drinks are in high demand.

La Bella suggests you make your own tea party. How?

Tea Forte can bring the magic alive. If a tea party is too staid, invite a few girlfriends friends over for a sophisticated cocktail hour with their many exotic offerings.

Cosmo of Provence? Lavender Lime Rickey? Founder Peter Hewitt consulted with chefs and restaurateurs from top global culinary stops to create the most innovative and delicious blends of tea, rough-cut herbs and flowers. The clever pyramid infusers (silk!) look like works of art. Seeking to reinvent the entire tea ceremony, a centuries old tradition by offering a total sensory and emotional experience as a means to offset the stress inherent to today’s lifestyle, the company offers the best splurge combination of taste, smell, touch and visual presentation.

Planet Ha-Ha. According to novelist Victor Hugo, “Laughter is the sun that drives winter from man’s soul.”

True, Psych experts agree that laughter is among the best ‘quickie’ remedies to restore a person’s sense of well-being. If you’re looking for a way to enjoy some

healthy “alone” time, why not try a romantic comedy movie marathon! We figure you have about 12 hours that can be set aside for pure laughter, true? What six really good movies to best fill those 12 hours?

Listen to the Waves. “Being at the shore for a few hours can totally restore you and your fiancé. For a perfect picnic, travel light! Don’t bring glasses and plates and f latware. Make everything finger food: rolled up paninis such as lemon chicken with aoli or grilled apple and cheddar sandwiches. Do a white sangria, add a bit of Cointreau and peach slices. Or mix up a wonderful mango peach passion fruit fizz that can be served with or without vodka. Our favorite trick? Pour the beverages in bottles and top with stoppers. Napkins and a blanket. That’s it. Keep it simple. The point is to listen to the waves and relax.”

— Linda Sample, President of A Thyme to Cook, located in North Stonington, CT.

Favors 4 Wishes

SHOWERS / BIRTHDAYS / WEDDINGS

So many times we have been asked by brides-to-be if we have wedding favors for their guests, in lieu of the traditional favors that most forget about as soon as they return home.

Well now we do!

Vısit www.awish.org or call (401) 781-9199 A WISH COME TRUE is Rhode Island and SE Massachusetts oldest

wish-granting organization, granting wishes to medically-qualified children age 3 through 18 who suffer from life-threatening illnesses.

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SCOLARI PHOTOGRAPHY

155 Water Street, Warren, RI 401.334.7739 ScolariPhoto.com

feature

The Language of Love:

Creatıng Romantic Wedding Vows

By Nayda Rondon

This is a magical time to tell your beloved what’s in your heart.

Writing your own vows can add intimacy to your ceremony, making it even more emotional, meaningful and unique. Here’s how:

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Check with celebrant

Some discourage or don’t allow non-traditional vows, so make sure yours is open to the idea.

When you find one who is, have him/her review your vows for religious/spiritual appropriateness or for help and ideas.

2

Don’t procrastinate

“Take time every few days to focus on what you would like to say,” suggests Candice Benson, senior consultant at The Finishing Touch, Wedding and Event Planning in West Orange, New Jersey. Set aside about two months to create vows; have the final version ready at least a week before the wedding.

3

Take it step by step

“Start by simply writing down how you feel about your partner and your upcoming marriage and what it all means to you,” notes Christina Friedrichsen, author of Intimate Weddings. “You could do this like a love letter to your beloved. From there, convert your thoughts to vows.” Or search in books and on the Internet for sample vows you can adapt.

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Make it fun and romantic

Schedule a date (a candlelit dinner or cuddle session on the couch) to discuss marriage, your wedding and life together. Take turns “interviewing” each other: When did you know he/she was the one?

What’s the most romantic thing he/she has done? What Get on the same page do you love most about the other? Write down key Discuss themes, length and whether you will write your vows together or alone. “Although the thoughts. The experience of re-living such special events and memories may not only inspire vows, but bride and groom will probably not want to share the also create new experiences to write about! vows before the wedding day, surprise is part of the romance, they should keep the length similar. It’s awkward if one partner has written three magnificent Practice makes perfect sentences and the other has written War and Peace,” Review vows out loud. Cut awkward explains Celia Milton, a New York/New Jersey wedding phrases, repetitions and unnecessary ceremony officiant/minister. words. Practice alone in front of a mirror, with each other and/or a trusted friend or family member who will give you honest feedback. After writing the final Give yourselves a break version, rehearse often.

“We received suggestions from our celebrant and cut and pasted her examples together. We wanted our vows to be personal yet did not want the Be prepared pressure of coming up with something completely on If you think nerves or emotions might our own. The result was perfect, not too personal but cause you to forget your vows, write them tailored enough to reflect our true feelings,” says Jillian, down on note cards you can read to each other, then who wed Alan in September 2008. The couple worked exchange as a lasting memento. Entrust them to your on their vows together. maid of honor and/or best man to hand to you at the right time. Or give vows to your celebrant and have Proclaim your special style. him/her read them first, so you and your beloved can repeat. Make several copies, just in case…

“Traditional vows did not feel representative of our spiritual beliefs or how we feel about ourselves and each other,” relate Jennifer and Eliu of Write your love story Queens, New York, who married in May 2009. “Our “I tell my couples their vows are basically love is unique and has a special story we wanted to love letters that speak from the heart,” pledge in front of others in authentic ‘E&J style!’” notes Milton. “It’s not as important to have perfectly crafted prose as it is to express what they’re promising each other. This doesn’t mean the vows have to be 100% Keep vows short and sweet deep and solemn; the most memorable ones are simple, Stick to one to three minutes. Avoid clichés, controversial topics or overly intimate language. sometimes funny, and authentic to the couple themselves. Vows like that give guests another sweet glimpse “Make sure you’re comfortable saying these things in front of lots of people, but at the same time, make them into the couple, and a remembrance of how their partners put them first. A beautifully written ceremony heartfelt,” Jillian emphasizes. and heartfelt vows are a gift to everyone who attends that ceremony, renewing the commitment of everyone Seek inspiration attending.”

“It’s sometimes easier to express yourself when including a quote, short poem or lyrics from a favorite song,” says Benson. “If you’ve shared a difficult reate magic moment in each other’s lives, your wedding day may be When saying your vows, hold hands and look a nice time to express your gratitude for the love and lovingly into each other’s eyes. This is a support you received from your partner at that time.” magical time to tell your beloved, and everyone gathOther sources: love letters, romantic or spiritual ered to share the experience, what’s in your heart. literature, and movies.

Make the most of every romantic moment!

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Wise Tips from Registry Experts

By E. Bingo Wyer

G

ift giving is a wonderful way for guests to express both excitement and joy as a new couple embarks on a new life together. Wedding gift registries, developed nearly a century ago, now seamlessly eliminate the guess work for gift giving. The best registries are instantly updated, practically within the blink of an eye in real time.

Bloomingdale’s offers one of the nation’s most successful registries. First, it’s service is among the nation’s oldest. Its network of stores has a broad national reach, coveted customer service, along with its exceptional wide ranging gift selection, make the store a true leader in the bridal field. Of course, Bloomingdale’s creativity is legendary: This is the store that introduced the designer shopping bag in 1960’s.

La Bella Bride decided to check in with Bloomingdale’s experts to learn how couples can maximize their upfront time and create a highly individualized registry—one that helps create a new household where couples receive meaningful and useful gifts.

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Here’s what we learned:

Timing

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f both career and social demands on your time seem to pull you off task, don’t fret. Registries need not be done all at one time. Simply begin with enough items to let guests browse. According to Sheri Singer, Registry Manager with Bloomingdale’s, Chestnut Hill, MA, “You can add, delete and modify over time.” And the store offers a generous completion program, which allows couples to purchase remaining items in the registry at a special discount.

See For Yourself

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hile Internet shopping works for some, many guests still like to see and touch gift options.

Molly McGuinness, Registry Consultant with

Bloomingdale’s of Chevy Chase, MD, also suggests a store visit, which can really empower a new couple, adding, “It’s an important first collaborative step and launches the first real dialogue about how they’re going to set up their new household.”

Most experts agree since the choices have to work on some level for both. “If we get a bride who’s a Laura Ashley type and the groom typifies Contemporary Asian, often the one who has the most passion about an item wins out.” Ms. McGuinness adds, “It’s fun, too, to watch the couples learn about each other during the process. Many of the grooms today are accomplished chefs and they know their pots and pans.”

To begin, take inventory of the things you already have then ask, “What do we really need?” Pamela Schlesinger, To begin, take inventory of the Bloomingdale’s Registry Manthings you already have then ager of Short Hills New Jersey, ask, “ What do we really need? ” suggests “It’s as simple as speaking about styles you’d both like. And for the guests, it’s about finding an equitable price range so people aren’t forced to buy outside of their price range.” But, in the end, you do want to make it easy on your guests who should be able to place their order via the Internet, in person, or over the phone.

Mix and Match

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hile most couples continue to gravitate to the big three, china, sterling and stemware, there’s far greater and freer interpretation on how these three mingle. For instance, a number of couples are happy to choose a color, and then use a variety of different designers to make up the place setting they are seeking. Ms. Singer suggests each couple explore their “at home dining style.” Do they really want bread and butter plates? Tea cups with saucers? Ms. Schlesinger

sees that “mugs are increasingly popular,” and observes that couples seem to avoid a cookie cutter look at all costs. In those cases when family china may be inherited, today’s couples will use one element, say the china’s pattern, as a unifying motif. Thereafter, they may add a similar color or shape but one that is nevertheless different, likely from a more modern design. It’s a way to give your entertaining a fresh “spin.”

Check In

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s the wedding approaches, Hannah Soule of Bloomingdale’s flagship store in Manhattan suggests that a couple continue to revisit the registry, especially following the engagement party since, “There is often a depletion of choices after the earlier celebrations.” And that’s when Bloomingdale’s unique Thank You Card Manager becomes a great planning tool to survey available guest choices and track which guests already made purchases. According to Ms. Soule, your Bloomie’s registry consultant can now help design— based on your specific guest count and how many invited family members—a specifically tailored and individualized gift list that will uniquely match your guest list. One wise rule of thumb that seems to work across all fifty states: Place nearly twice as many choices on your list as the total number of invited guests. Somehow that ratio gives everyone an array of options and doesn’t penalize those who tend to make last minute decisions.

Letter Perfect

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ll registry pros suggest you acknowledge gifts promptly, no matter how busy your days seem. Set aside a few hours each week to thank your guests. Let each know the gift has arrived in a hand written note, being sure to mention the gift by name. Promptness underscores thoughtfulness. Gifts received before the wedding should receive a thank you note within two weeks of their arrival. Clearly, as the wedding date approaches, gifts may arrive more frequently—even in clusters. So plan ahead and allow more time. Gifts received on or after the wedding day also must receive a timely response. What’s a polite time frame? …within a few weeks after returning from your honeymoon. By that time, all thank you notes, too, should be signed, sealed and delivered.

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HONEYMOON

å Love å is i n t h e e y e of t h e BE HOL D E R

by Ann Petronio

Four Distinct Honeymoon Destinations for the Couples yearning to be removed from it All…

There’s no such thing

as a one-size-fits-all honeymoon, and every couple has their own vision of what this romantic getaway should encompass. We’re happy to offer some tempting honeymoon suggestions, based on several different interpretations of “love and romance”.

sandals the “luxury included” honeymoon

If your honeymoon vision includes a luxurious suite at a couples-only resort on a lush Caribbean island, then we have some advice for you – Martha Stewart is offering themed weddings at Sandals.

With twelve resorts on four Caribbean islands (Jamaica, St. Lucia, Antigua and the Bahamas), Sandals excels at pampering couples of all ages. This is especially true for honeymooners, who receive chilled champagne on arrival, special turndown service with flower petals, and a breakfast in bed.

Luxurious accommodations at the various resorts 170

Every couple has their own vision of what a romantic getaway should encompass…

include four-poster beds, marble baths, and range from standard garden and ocean-view room categories to some amazing suites that feature swim-up access, private plunge pools, and dedicated butler service (for when you really need someone to bring you a cold drink at the beach, draw you a rose-filled Jacuzzi tub, or unpack your suitcase). Our favorite? The new Millionaire Suites at Sandals Regency La Toc Golf Resort and Spa in St. Lucia offers 800 square feet of indoor living space, along with a three-level sundeck, private zeroentry infinity pool and whirlpool – all cantilevered out from the highest point on the resort, with a sweeping 180 degree view of the Caribbean.

If you ever venture outside your suite, Sandals offers gourmet dining at a wide selection of restaurants, included premium brand drinks, water sports (including SCUBA), golf (in Jamaica and St. Lucia), nightly entertainment, a full-service spa, and optional local tours and excursions.

Just bring your swim suit and your new spouse.

Everything else is included! more » 17 1

HONEYMOON

Top 10

Most Romantic

Honeymoon Destinations

by Kyle Matthew Mooney

bermuda the classic honeymoon never goes out of style

Just 650 miles off the coast of North Carolina is the 1 Par i s No list of honeymoon destinations is complete without Paris. The City of Light gets our vote as the most romantic in the world. Pavillon de la Reine (www.pavillonde-la-reine.com; from 380€) is a charming hotel off one of Paris’s prettiest squares, Place des Vosges. The surrounding neighborhood, Le Marais, is wonderful for exploring. Also visit St-Germain for great cafes and rose macarons at Pierre Herme (72 rue Bonaparte; www.pierreherme.com).

And the terrace at Georges (Centre Georges Pompidou, +33 1 44-78-47-99) is perfect for a glass of Champagne, with Paris at your feet.

2 B ali The beaches are lovely but head for the fertile Ayung River valley, where the Four Seasons Sayan (www.fourseasons.com; from $460) clings to a verdant hillside. See the best of Balinese paintings in nearby Ubud, a town teeming with independent artists, then relax in your villa’s private plunge pool. The hotel’s farming tour, a guided hike which gives a glimpse of traditional rural Balinese life, is excellent.

Best bit: part of the tour is a riverside spa scrub and massage.

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classic honeymoon destination of Bermuda – a perennial favorite for East Coast couples seeking beautiful beaches, elegant accommodations, and quaint British charm. Of course, the short flight (less than 2.5 hours, direct, from New York or Boston) doesn’t hurt either!

May to October is the beach season, when daytime temperatures are in the 80s and honeymooners can enjoy the pink sand beaches and clear blue water that Bermuda is known for. Adventurous types can dive the island’s famous wrecks (more than 400) or swim with the dolphins; while history buffs can visit old forts, museums and churches; and nature lovers can explore Crystal Caves or the 37-acre Botanical Gardens.

From November to March, the nearby Gulf Stream keeps Bermuda’s temperatures at a mild 60-70 degrees. Not so great for the beach, but perfect for playing golf (we’re told the island has more golf courses per square mile than anywhere else in the world), shopping Hamilton’s boutiques, and enjoying a gourmet meal or a pint at a pub.

Most honeymooners opt for elegant properties like the cottage-style accommodations at Cambridge Beaches or the contemporary luxury of Elbow Beach, but a unique new property called 9 Beaches is also turning a few heads. This ultra-casual resort features private over-water canvas-sided cabanas with plexi-glass floor inserts so you can watch the sea life underneath.

If your idea of a romantic honeymoon includes a quiet beach, a good book, and a cold drink, Bermuda should be on your short list!

3 Nor ther n C alifor ni a Wine Cou nt r y San Francisco oozes romance from every foggy hilltop, but head north for a great honeymoon for couples with an interest in nature, food and wine. Healdsburg, a walkable small town with excellent restaurants, is a charming base to explore the Wine Country and is within easy reach of Point Reyes and Mt. Tamalpais parks, both ideal for hiking. Les Mars Hotel (www.lesmarshotel.com; from $475), owned by the M&M candy family, is also the best bed in town.

4 An gkor Wat Never mind that history and architecture buffs will be enthralled by the ruins of the Khmer Empire and what was once the largest pre-industrial city in the world.

Few things are more romantic than seeing the sun rise in eerie stillness through the towers and colonnades of Angkor Wat and imagining what was. The colonial-era Grand Hotel d’Angkor (www.raffles.com; from $150) has been beautifully restored, and the hotel’s Elephant Bar is an institution.

5 T he A dirond ack s The ideal spot for the naturalist couple or for those who want blissful quiet, The Point (www.thepointresort.com; from $1,350 all-inclusive) was once the Adirondack getaway for William Avery Rockefeller. Now a small, luxurious hotel with just eleven rooms along the shores of Upper Saranac Lake, it’s like being at camp, albeit one where the chef trained under three-starred renowned Albert Roux. It’s best in the summer, when the weather is perfect for hiking, canoeing or just idling along the lake.

mohonk mountain house the outdoor lover’s paradise

We know it’s your honeymoon, but how long will you really hide behind the “do not disturb” sign? For active couples who think that a little adrenaline rush just adds to the romance, we’ve got a destination for you, too!

The Mohonk Mountain House, nestled in the Shawangunk Mountains in New York’s Hudson Valley, truly offers the best of both worlds. Built in 1869 on the shores of Lake Mohonk (90 minutes north of New York City), it’s a romantic Victorian castle set in an outdoor lover’s paradise. Inside, it’s cozy and warm, with 265 luxurious rooms and suites, gourmet dining, and a full-service spa. Outside, the resort offers 85 miles of hiking trails, an award-winning golf course, and seasonal activities like swimming, boating, tennis, ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and more.

Honeymooners can opt for cozy fireplace rooms, or splurge on a tower suite with wraparound views, and all rooms include three meals per day and afternoon tea and cookies. Optional add-on packages include spa treatments, horse and carriage rides, and room service breakfast in bed.

For those who can tear themselves away from the resort itself, there are guided rock-climbing excursions, nearby winery tours, antique shops, and the fun and funky college town of New Paltz, with its eclectic mix of shops, galleries and restaurants.

For a romantic honeymoon that leaves you breathless, check out the gorgeous scenery and non-stop activities at this mountain hideaway.

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HONEYMOON

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provincetown Anguilla A beach-lover’s and gourmet’s paradise, Anguilla is a peaceful and understated island near St Martin. Stay at Malliouhana (www.malliouhana.com; from $415) – to the Caribbean what the Carlyle is to New York – which anchors one end of Meads Bay beach, one of the prettiest stretches of powdery sand anywhere. Sunset at Malliouhana’s bluff-top bar, followed by dinner at nearby Blanchard’s (www.blanchardsrestaurant.com) – on par with top restaurants in New York or Boston – is the perfect romantic evening à deux.

7 Provence Romance is everywhere in Provence, but St-Remy-de-Provence is special: it’s what everyone dreams of when they envision a country French town, and is perfect for an afternoon stroll. Wineries dot the surrounding area and provide plenty of daytime activities, as does touring Les Baux, a medieval hill town; with Arles and Avignon close by. Oustau de Baumanière (www.maisonsdebaumaniere.com; from 200€), a charming inn with a fabulous restaurant, is housed in a 14th century farmhouse and makes for a perfect base.

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for the “Bohemian” couple

Lands End Inn

For the unconventional couple who isn’t tied to this year’s “hot list”, why not consider the breezy beaches and sizzling nightlife of Provincetown?

This historic fishing village at the tip of Cape Cod is probably best known as a gay-friendly vacation destination, but the welcoming atmosphere and laissez-faire attitude that make it perfect for same-sex couples is appreciated by honeymooners of all kinds.

Accommodations range from roadside motels to lovely B&Bs, and one of the best for honeymooners and weddings is the Lands End Inn, a lavishly decorated property with a commanding ocean views, a private sandy beach, and an ideal walking distance from town.

Daytime pursuits include whale-watching, biking, and enjoying the miles of beaches that make up the protected Cape Cod National Seashore. Along Commercial Street, couples can find unique art galleries, antique shops and boutiques.

After dark, P-Town (as it’s known locally) really shines – with fine dining, live entertainment, busy nightclubs and more. For a fun and casual dinner, try Saki Sushi Bar and Lounge. If you’re in the mood for something a little more romantic, make a reservation for a seaside dinner with a view at The Red Inn. Either way, since you’re in P-Town, you’ve got to follow it up with drag karaoke at the Governor Bradford!

For a sand-between-your-toes, live-and-let-live, Bohemian honeymoon, there’s no place like Provincetown! Ruby slippers optional.

8 Virgin Gorda Ever wanted to escape to a deserted island?

Secluded Biras Creek (www.biras.com; from $700 all-inclusive) lets you do just that: the resort has a fleet of two-person motorboats for sailing the surrounding waters. The rooms, arranged in oceanfront cottages, are lovely and the dining is excellent, but those little boats make Biras unique. Take one out, explore unspoiled reefs nearby and then enjoy a picnic lunch on your own uninhabited beach.

9

Positano It’s an old favorite, with good reason: few seaside villages are as beautiful or dramatic as cliff-hanging Positano, on the Amalfi coast. Le Sirenuse (www.sirenuse.it; from 350€) is a picturesque hotel housed in an 18th-century villa overlooking the sea and is worth the splurge; the al fresco Champagne and oyster bar is especially delightful. There’s a good cultural scene in town, but relaxing in the sun on a terrace at Le Sirenuse is heavenly.

10 Big Island of Hawaii Laurence Rockefeller was deft at picking resort sites, and the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (www.princeresortshawaii.com; from $460) is one of his masterpieces. It fronts one of the best beaches on the islands and has a spectacular art collection. The Big Island is fantastic to explore, with its active volcano at Kilauea, rainforests, cowboy country in Waimea and great arts and crafts, and sunset-time dinner at the Mauna Kea is always a special treat.

fin

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