Suzanne Delawar Studios
Kathryn Ivy Photography
Ryann Winn Photography and Videography
HistoricMankinMansion.com | 804-737-7773
WINTER/SPRING 2020 ISSUE 59
in this edition Emily Bartell Photography
MJ Mendoza Photography
J. Cameron Photography
Wedding Planners / 15
56 | Exit Stage Left
Rentals / 113
16 | The Key to Your Wedding Budget
62 | Thoughtful Ways to Give Back
116 | Go-To Guide: Booking Wedding Rentals
Gifts, Favors & More / 21
68 | Our Cover Favorites
120 | Set the Mood with Tabletop Design
80 | Perks of a Restaurant Rehearsal Dinner
Attire/ 127
19 | Wedding Party Gifts
86 | Getting Married in RVA’s Arts District
24 | Unique Favor Ideas
Venue Directory / 94
132 | Two Dresses are Better than One
Venues & Accommodations / 27
Caterers / 99
Photography / 143
102 | Romantic Friday Weddings
146 | Heather Hughes Photography Spotlight
106 | Rehearsal Dinner Considerations
150 | Why You Need Engagement Photos
108 | Calculating Cocktails
154 | 5 Reasons for a First Look
110 | A Signature Soirée
156 | Capture Your Beauty with Bridal Portraits
28 | Main Street Station Spotlight 36 | Steps to Finding Dream Venue 42 | Oakdale Spotlight 50 | Beyond the Wedding Party
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128 | Jewelry Trend: Stackable Rings
MJ Mendoza Photography
Hayes & Fisk Photography
Relish Photography by Lee
Videography / 159
Featured Weddings / 181
Honeymoons / 213
158 | Why a Videographer is a Must-Have
Invitations / 197
214 | Honeymoon Timeline
162 | Get the Most Out of Your Wedding Video
198 | Formal Invitations Lingo
216 | The Biggest Honeymoon Booking Mistake
Flowers / 165
Beauty & Health / 201
218 | Is an All-Inclusive Package for You?
166 | 4 Floral Splurges
200 | The Best Kept Wedding Secret
Transportation / 221
Music & Dance / 171
202 | Skincare is Self-Care
Planning Tools / 225
172 | First Dance, First Chance at Love
206 | Spray Tans and Your Wedding Day
Vendor Directory / 230
174 | Deciding Between a Band and DJ
Sweet Treats / 209
176 | Start the Party with Your First Dance
208 | Oh-So Sweet Treats
on the cover Paige Stevens Photography, Historic Mankin Mansion, Caryn’s Bridals, Formals and Tuxedos, Candice Hardy Makeup Artistry For more details, see page 8.
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LETTER FROM EDITORS Pop the bubbly! You’re engaged! We know that planning a wedding can seem overwhelming and stressful, but we promise, we’re here to help. Since 1989, we have helped local
Issue 59 Winter/Spring 2020
couples plan for the wedding of their
Publishers: Amye & Scott Brunette
dreams. Through this magazine, our
Editor-in-Chief: Amye Brunette
website, RichmondWeddings.com and
Chief Operating Officer: Scott Brunette
our semi-annual wedding shows, we
Managing Editor: Marissa McCormick
have found the key to a picture-perfect
Intern: Faith Anderson
wedding: finding vendors that you love
Art Direction & Graphic Design: E. Strategic Design
and mesh with. It’s so important on this monumental day to be surrounded
Contributing Writers:
by vendors you know and trust. By hiring professional and reliable companies, the only worry on your big day is marrying the one you love! Our vendors (or “friendors” to us) are just like family. We know them all personally, follow along with their lives, and want to see success for each and every one of them. By being in this magazine our vendors are making a statement. Please let them know you found them through Richmond Weddings™, they will appreciate it! Reminding the ones you hire that you found them from our resources enables us to continue to bring the best wedding content and inspiration available in RVA! Also, exciting news. Marissa, our Managing Editor, is planning her own wedding! Follow along with our blog to walk through the process with her! There you can find local vendor advice as well as real Richmond Weddings to inspire while preparing for one of the biggest days in your life. Finally, thank you for allowing us to be part of this exciting process. We hope you find the content useful and the dream team for your big day. The inspiration doesn’t stop here! Follow us on social media (@rvaweddings) for daily inspiration, vendor advice, and weekly local wedding features. Be sure to register on our website for special deals through our trusted partners and codes to save money for wedding shows. All the best and happy planning!
Faith Anderson Amy Cabaniss Jumarcelon Castro Audrey Chumbris Paula Clark Ramirez David Darby Matthew Davey Leila Fleischman Kim Goldstein Christine Hardenberger Syndal Haun Liz Kincaid Ashley Kipps Emily Loxtercamp Philip Mannino Marissa McCormick Monica Mendoza Kim Moody Noelle Parent Aja Pressley Amanda Roberts Debra Shepperson Laura Silva Tatiana Sizemore Michelle Walsh Michelle Walters Tommy Waters
For questions, comments or advertising information call 804-789-9110 or email info@richmondweddings.com
Amye & Scott Brunette
RW Team Photos by Kristine Pringle Photographers
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Kristine Pringle Photographers
Mickie Bowman began the business as The Wedding Guide in 1989. Since selling the business to Amye & Scott in 2005, she has been enjoying every minute of retirement!
Richmond Weddings Magazine is published by AB Bridal, Inc. All rights are reserved. Articles and advertisements are the property of AB Bridal, Inc. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the expressed written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. While the information in this magazine is believed to be accurate, AB Bridal, Inc. does not guarantee it. AB Bridal, Inc. is also not liable for the goods and services provided by the advertisers in this publication nor the information contained in the advertisements.
WE NOW PRONOUNCE YOU TRULY AMAZED. Jaws will drop. Wows will fill the room. And that’s before you even make an entrance. The grand Shed at Main Street Station will surround your wedding guests with a spectacular view of Richmond. Prefer a more intimate setting? The station’s iconic Headhouse is ideal for smaller gatherings. With its marble-clad columns, towering windows and intricate architectural details, this historic venue requires little embellishment. Call 804.646.1862 for details on either setting.
THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING MainStreetStationRichmond.com
behind the scenes
COVER:
The story of our Issue 59 Cover is a bicoastal affair. When brainstorming, we wanted to be a little more edgy, embracing and welcoming a modern couple. We also knew we wanted a jumpsuit because we kept pinning them over and over again! Luckily our friends over at Caryn’s Bridals, Formals, and Tuxedos had the perfect option. A fun, comfortable crepe jumpsuit…and with pockets too! (See the full details on the last page.) Next was the model. With our cover location locked in at the gorgeous Historic Mankin Mansion, we reached out to owners Martin and Paula for suggestions. She sent us Rachel and immediately we were smitten. Rachel, who had been married at the mansion on March 23, 2019, was perfect for our cover… except that she lived in Los Angeles. Rachel and her husband, Kornelius, are originally from the East Coast. After a totally epic proposal (that went viral!) they came to Richmond for their grand celebration. Thanks to the generosity of Historic Mankin Mansion, they were able to fly Rachel out for a quick weekend. She took the red-eye flight the night before our shoot, making it just in time. Paige with Paige Stevens Photography worked her magic during our shoot, diving into bushes to get that perfect shot. Candice with Candice Hardy Makeup Artistry made the already beautiful Rachel shine, giving her a classic look with that signature red lip. Rachel’s mother also joined us for the shoot, excited to relive and revisit the spot where her daughter got married. With so many picturesque locations on the mansion’s property, it was hard to choose the final location, but the industrial feel of the gallery fit our vision. The brick wall backdrop, according to Paula, is “perfectly imperfect” with touches of character and history. Rachel looked beautiful and we knew we got our shot. Thank you to all of our wonderful vendors that helped make this stunning cover become a reality. This includes Sarah with Waverly Estate who gladly went to Caryn’s in Farmville to pick up the jumpsuit for us when we couldn’t make the trip in time. A special thank you to Rachel for flying out to be a part of our cover! Pulling off a magnificent cover is truly a labor of love from all. You can follow Rachel and Kornelius’ story on social by searching: #BecomingBascombe 8
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THE RICHMOND WEDDINGS™ TEAM
Amye Brunette
Scott Brunette
Marissa McCormick
As a second generation owner, I take my role very seriously to carry on this legacy my mom started in 1989. Something I enjoy even more is my family role and keeping laughter going in our home with our boys 9 & 11 and husband, Scott. Away from work I cherish family time the most and being on the water as much as possible, as well as spending lots of time with my good friends that help keep me grounded.
I am proud to call Richmond my home since 2005. I am fortunate to be able to work with my wife, Amye. I love what we do and the people we work with. When we’re not working I enjoy spending time with Amye, our two sons and two dogs. I usually have SportsCenter on and am still a huge Dodgers and Lakers fan. Golf is my passion and I am always looking to play more. So let’s tee it up!
After graduating from JMU, I found myself in my favorite city in the world, Richmond. Ever since I was little I have loved weddings, so to be a part of this magazine is a dream come true. Especially since I'm newly engaged! With my journalism and social media background I am so happy that I can help spread the love even further in RVA. When I’m not behind the keyboard, I love to travel, eat, and plan my own wedding!
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Behind the Scenes of the Richmond Weddings™ 2019 Summer Show Our Summer Show was full of wedding planning fun! With every vendor from DJs to venues to makeup artists, it was a onestop-shop for local Richmond couples! Our Pink Carpet, hosted by POSH PR ®, was a total blast as we talked to couples excited about planning! And we had amazing giveaways like a FREE gown from Tiffanys Bridal and $750 to Diamonds Direct! The next two shows will take place on Sunday, March 15, 2020, and September 13, 2020, at Main Street Station. Get your tickets today on our website, www.RichmondWeddings.com and use the Wedding Show link to purchase! Use code “RWMAG20” to save!
Photos courtesy of RW Bagley Photography
GROW YOUR NETWORK WITH
Richmond Weddings™ Ever wonder what your vendors do when they’re not planning the wedding of your dreams? Here at Richmond Weddings™ we have monthly networking events! With delicious food and amazing atmospheres, wedding vendors can unwind, mingle, and connect with other local businesses.
Nicole Adele Photography
Our network of clients is like our family. Getting together each month is one way of catching up with many of our members, seeing what’s new with their businesses and more importantly, just getting to know them better. Since we travel to a new venue and have different sponsors each month, it’s also an opportunity for companies to show off what they can do! Why not showcase your newest rentals, cuisine, photo booth, or event space to the people of the wedding world?
Our December holiday event is extra special. Every year we run a Toys for Tots donation drive and our vendors bring tons of gifts for local children in need. Usually, a few Marines come and pick up the truckload(s)! And, unlike some other mixers, the awkward ice breakers are left at the door. We have one goal at ours, getting to know new people in a fun, relaxed and comfortable environment.
Networking events are just one perk of becoming a part of Richmond Weddings™. Interested in joining our family? Email info@richmondweddings.com or call (804) 789-9110 to get started! 12
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hy by Lee Relish Photograp
Relish Photograp hy by Lee
Paige Stevens Photography
Nicole Vance Pho
tography
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Hi there!
First off, congrats on your engagement! Welcome to one of the most exciting and fun times of your life! I’m Marissa, the Managing Editor here at Richmond Weddings™, and I’m engaged too! While planning a wedding can seem fun on paper, it can also be STRESSFUL. Believe me, I know! Even with all the inspiration and help of working at a wedding magazine, I still feel inundated at times. But, before I get lost in the stresses of creating the perfect day, I always remind myself why this is all happening in the first place: to marry my best friend. It’s so easy to get caught up in the details, who’s sitting where, what colors look right, what food should we eat, or how my makeup will stay on even though I’ll be bawling most of the day. And in moments where it feels like it’s too much, take a break! Treat yourself to a cup of coffee, a walk outside, or even a few days with NO wedding planning. Our planning resources will still be here to help when you get back! Through the engagement, whether it’s four years or six months, take time to enjoy this pivotal time in your life!
59 comes out, I’ll be heading down the
And don’t forget to register on our
home stretch for my wedding planning. I
website to get advice and specials from
know there’s going to be road bumps, but
participating vendors.
it’s not so bad when I have the party of a lifetime to look forward to. Yes, I might spill
We know there’s an endless amount of
red wine down the front of my dress, and
inspiration out there. With Instagram and
yes, it might downpour rain, but at least I’ll
Pinterest full of PERFECT weddings, it’s
be surrounded by everyone I love in ONE
hard to find what will fit the two of you.
room. Plus, rain on your wedding day is
Lean on the vendors for help. Maybe you
good luck, right?
want a barn wedding but you’re more of a modern couple. Chances are they have seen something like this before and can help make your vision come true. Our industry experts want nothing more than the day to go absolutely perfect.
Best of luck to all of you in this exciting process! Remember, delegate tasks, don’t stress about the weather, take those breaks, lean on your vendors, and keep to your timeline! We’re here for you every step of the way. Along with this magazine (and
Guests will be at your wedding to celebrate
handy planning tools in the back), follow
you and your new spouse, and the life you
us on social media @rvaweddings for
will create together. By the time our Issue
daily inspiration as well as weekly Real Richmond Weddings!
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Cheers and Happy Planning!
Marissa P.S. I’ve been writing about my wedding planning process, updating every few months, over on our blog! Head to RichmondWeddings.com to follow along!
J. Cameron Photography
wedding planners When it comes to planning, it's important to stay organized! We know how overwhelming it can seem, but that's why we have plenty of wedding planners ready to help! They are pros when it comes to organization and bringing together the biggest day of your life, so BREATHE!
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THE KEY to your WEDDING BUDGET By Tatiana Sizemore
Yay! You’re engaged! Keep admiring that new ring! Your recently married friend added you to all sorts of wedding Facebook groups and you've picked up every wedding magazine, including Richmond Weddings™! Sound familiar? Before you get caught up in the details of planning your day, there is one thing that must come first…determining your budget. Weddings tend to come with a lot of sticker shock for couples. The average wedding in the United States costs around $30,000. That doesn't mean you couldn't do it for less, you absolutely can. No matter your budget, every couple's goal should be to have the wedding they can afford without debt and without losing their sanity. A budget plan for your wedding can save so much stress and heartache. (Even Meghan Markle had a wedding budget, just saying!) 16
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Emily
Bartell
Photogr
aphy
Jordan Baker Photography
WE TURN DREAMS INTO REALITY Wedding Planning and DJ Service www.SunshineEventsByDebbie.com SEbyDebbie@gmail.com | 804-513-2345
Allison Kuhn Photography
Awesomesauce Photography
O X OXweddings&events
Tatiana Sizemore | simplycharmedevents.com tatiana@simplycharmedevents.com
Awesomesauce Photography
Marie Violet Photography
Have a simply charmed wedding
Specializing in Wedding Day Coordination 804-441-3609 | www.XoXoWeddingsandEventsLLC.com Angela@XoXoWeddingsandEventsLLC.com
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Here are the steps to creating a realistic wedding budget
1 2 3 4
Figure out how much money you and your future spouse are able to set aside each month. Do this by
discovering your joint income and subtracting monthly bills. And with the number you have left, figure out how much you want to save for your wedding. If that number is smaller than you would like, see what you can cut from your monthly expenses, such as daily Starbucks, eating out, weekly manicures, etc.
Decide how much from your savings you’ll want to contribute to your wedding. Keep in
mind, you are getting married and starting a LIFE with someone. That may mean buying a house, kids, or a trip around the world. Be sure to remember this when taking money from savings.
Consider your parents. Maybe they have been saving for your wedding day since you were born and have a generous amount to contribute or maybe they want to contribute to specific aspects.
Add all of these numbers together based on how long of an engagement you want to have. BAM!
It's a budget.
PRO TIP: Avoid loans or borrowing from a credit card. You do not want to begin your married life in debt and a wedding is just one day; you have your whole life together.
Now the real fun begins‌ Determine what is most important to help you allocate your budget. Maybe you have always dreamed of getting married at a particular venue or hiring a certain photographer. Figuring out your specific budget is important so you can delegate money accordingly. Something important to consider, without a venue, you do not have a date, so start booking that before anything else. Weddings are expensive affairs. Research your vendors and get an idea of what costs you are realistically looking at. There are many expenses couples tend to leave out of their budget as well. Dress alterations, stamps for invitations, and food and drinks for the wedding party to name a few. Ideally, leave a little cushion in your budget for the unexpected. At the end of it all, your wedding should be a reflection of you and your future spouse. Think about the things from weddings you have attended and roll with that! Tatiana Sizemore is the owner and lead coordinator/planner of Simply Charmed Weddings and Events. SCWE specializes in everything from full planning to month of/day of management and coordination. Couples interested in learning more about Simply Charmed Weddings and Events should visit simplycharmedevents.com
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Sarah and Dave Photography
Wedding Party
GIFTS By Noelle Parent
On your big day, it’s important to thank all the wonderful people that supported you along the way during the planning. Your bridesmaids that planned the perfect bachelorette party, or the best man that helped write the last bit of your vows. Your wedding day is the perfect opportunity to show how much they mean. Here are a few suggestions for some heartfelt gifts that they will appreciate!
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Present gifts that they can use on the wedding day. Perhaps an item that can be worn, such as jewelry or a tie or something they’ll enjoy using, like a tumbler for the guys! Handmade beautiful rose quartz necklaces are perfect for restoring confidence and balancing emotions. An Insulated cup is a great way to keep the drink of choice cold all day. Make it personal by adding their name!
It’s always nice to include a fun food that can be eaten while getting ready. Who doesn’t love homemade cheese straws? These are the perfect getting ready snacks, and you can find ones made right here in Richmond, Virginia. Reward your taste buds with a handful of sweet or salty. Gourmet local popcorn shops offer amazing flavors like Dark Chocolate Sea Salted Caramel or Loaded Baked Potato. Every piece eaten is better than the one before it!
Gourmet Sugar Cubes: Dress up your drink with these melting little moments of genuine joy! Plus, they pair perfectly with champagne. Whiskey Sugar Cubes: Drop one into a shot of liquor and make a quick Manhattan, OldFashioned, or Moscow Mule. Gourmet Coffee: This is a no brainer. Coffee is life and with so many amazing local roasters, there are a plethora of amazing flavors to choose from.
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Hayes & Fisk Photography
&5
gifts, favors, more!
Favors and gifts have come a long way since your parents got married! From personalized gift boxes, fun bridal party ideas, sweet bars and more you can make a lasting impression on your guests and give them something they’ll actually use! The possibilities are endless, and we have some great ideas that will make your wedding perfectly YOU!
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Include something they can use after the big weekend like a designer soap or a bath bomb. Soak in a sea salt tub to help cleanse and detoxify your body, relieve stress and relax the mind. Keep your smile smooth and supple with a luxurious moisturizing lip balm. Body products for men have come a long way. Keep them smelling fresh with a bar of handmade soap. Charcoal, eucalyptus, and cedar are a few you can find. Give them a gift that can be used over and over again as a reminder of the special memories created together, such as a scented candle. A "Mandle", a.k.a. Masculine Scented Candle: Help the guys set the mood with a candle made just for them. We suggest scents of bergamot, leather, tobacco flower, and musk. The packaging itself can be a fun side too! You can work with a local company to help. They can even use custom bags to add a little personal touch to your giving!
Pro Tip: Surprise your best girls and guys with their packages at the rehearsal dinner so they don’t have to keep tabs on their goodies come wedding day.
Owner and Lead Curator - Noelle Parent - wanted to provide people with a local resource for unique and meaningful gifts that would help them save time and convey the true meaning of gift giving. Looking for the perfect gift? Visit giftedrva.com to shop our pre-designed gifts for all occasions or build your own unique gift with our inventory of RVA and Virginia made products!
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Bachelorette Parties, Bridal Showers, Girls Night, Date Night
Over 50+ Flavors of Handmade Fresh Gourmet Popcorn Custom Labeled Wedding Favors Welcome Bag Gifts | Large Orders Welcome
northernneckpopcornbag.com
RICHMOND - SHORT PUMP
201 Towne Center West Blvd. Suite 710 Richmond, VA 23233 804-447-2491 | Studio345@paintingwithatwist.com
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unique
FAVOR IDEAS By Faith Anderson
Favors are the perfect opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your guests! There are endless ideas for what you can give, but better yet, tons of budget-friendly ones. Choosing to go the DIY route gives you creative freedom and the opportunity to create something that commemorates your wedding without breaking the bank.
Favors are the perfect opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your guests!
“Hangover” Kits
Plan ahead and prepare for a night of fun! Hangover kits are the perfect gift for those who need a little help the day after. Customize a jar with a humorous slogan about hangovers, and fill it with some headache-relieving medicine, like ibuprofen. Once they’ve taken their “hangover cure,” they can refill and reuse it. Then each time they need a little help, they can laugh and remember how much fun they had at your wedding! 24
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Olive Oil, Essential Oil Kits
Who doesn’t love essential oils? They have so many uses! That’s why they’re perfect to give as a favor. You can customize a blend that is personal to you so that any time it’s used, it is immediately a reminder of your wedding! Or offer a bar where guests can create their own oil blend. Either way, they will love taking home something so personal and multi-purposeful!
Succulents or Seed Packets
Hot Sauces or Spice Mixes
Airplane Bottles
DIY Bug Spray
Why not give your guests something green to remember your wedding day? Give them a cute succulent with your wedding date on the pot. They can keep the little cactus on their desk and think of you every time they water it. Or let them do the planting themselves with a packet of seeds as a favor. You’ll be able to give back to the world through trees and flowers.
Add a “drink me!” tag or customize cute packaging with your wedding date to create the most adorable favor. Your guests will appreciate the thought that went into the packaging and better yet, they’ll have fun drinking it! Nothing better than a favor that actually gets used.
Are you serving Southern cuisine at your reception? Carry that theme into your favors! Personalized hot sauce bottles or spice packets are the perfect way to take home a piece of your special day. Create a fun name for the sauce or spice mixture that incorporates your wedding hashtag or brand new last name! Now every time your guests cook, they’ll remember how special your wedding was (and how good the hot sauce is!)
Are you having an outdoor wedding? Create your own DIY bug spray to offer guests as they walk in the door! It’s the perfect favor that they will actually use during the ceremony, and most likely forgot to bring for themselves. They’ll be grateful that they left without any bug bites!
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Miss
STEP 1:
OFFICIAL MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE
Mrs.
• Be sure to have a copy of your official marriage certificate (this will come in the mail after your marriage license is processed). • If you need another copy, you can request it from the Virginia Vital Records online and have it sent to your home: https://usvitalrecords.org/virginia/ ordermarriagecertificate.html
STEP 2:
SOCIAL SECURITY CARD UPDATE Be sure to have in hand: □ An official marriage certificate □ Birth Certificate □ Driver’s License or Passport □ Original Social Security Card • We suggest printing and filling out the application for a new Social Security Card before you arrive. You can find it online here: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ forms/ss-5.pdf • Find the closest Social Security Office near you: https://secure.ssa.gov/ • Be sure to set aside at least two hours for the process. We suggest that you arrive when they open for a shorter wait time.
MJ Mendoza Photography
A GUIDE TO TAKING ON YOUR NEW NAME! The checklists and to do lists don’t stop after you say “I do!” If you are planning on a name change here are a few tips and tricks to make it a smooth transition. We know you have already updated your Facebook and Instagram, but it’s now time to make it official! 26
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• You can also mail everything in if you like, but keep in mind that you will have to send in all the original documents and they will be sent back to you.
STEP 3:
DRIVER’S LICENSE Have in hand: □ Marriage Certificate □ Driver’s License □ If you are changing your address as well, bring a copy of a bill that has your name and new address on it. • Take all items to your closest DMV. Be photo ready because they will require you to take a new photo!
voter
You can also change your while you’re there!
registration
Relish Photography by Lee
&5
venues accommodations Let's help you find the perfect venue. Whether you desire intimate and whimsical or grand and glam, your dream venue is out there! This section will help you plan everything from your rehearsal dinner to reception. It can seem like there is so much to do, but don't worry! We've got your back. Check out our handy Venue Directory at the end of this section to keep you on track and break down all the important info you need to know!
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FEATURED CONTENT
Don Mears Photography
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Next Stop
Your Perfect Venue By Marissa McCormick When an engaged couple tours Main Street Station, it’s usually the same process. They come in curious to see the venue, then once they see the gorgeous bare bones and unique city feel, their jaws drop and they can picture their wedding vision immediately. It’s the middle of wedding season and the Richmond Weddings™ Team is sitting with Crystal Lowery, Events Manager at Main Street Station, the woman responsible for helping make city nuptial dreams come true. If you haven’t seen the shed of Main Street Station before, prepare to be wowed. Trains silently breeze by the glass box and are the perfect complement to the unique industrial feel. The concrete floors reflect the recessed lights above and give a dull reflection of the absolutely breathtaking ceiling. Exposed metal beams, the only thing left from the original building, harmonize with new wooden ones, creating that perfect balance of new and old. Alluding to the jaw drops of touring couples, Crystal explains, “The space really has that effect!” Bring in an experienced wedding planner, and it will transform into whatever vision you’d like.
Don Mears Photography
The train shed, roughly the length of two football fields can turn your wedding into a set of experiences. Break up the length by drapes, opening a section for each part of your celebration. Start with your ceremony at the front, then open a pair of drapes to high tops and a bar for your cocktail hour. Continue to your reception, eventually ending at the back of the shed with your band and dance floor. Dance the night away with your closest family and friends with the Richmond city lights as your backdrop. While the shed of Main Street Station is obviously impressive, it’s the Head House, an event space at the front of the building that hosts most of their weddings. The Head House, which can accommodate up to 200 guests, is where you feel Main Street Station’s history. The Renaissance architecture from 1901 transports you to an older time in Richmond’s history. With two side rooms with exquisite details, one gets that old city feel when climbing the stairs to the event space. Encased on the outside with brick, the Head House is superbly intimate, and just like the expansive train shed, can be transformed into anything you’d like. Crystal explains, “We had one wedding have their ceremony in the Head House, and then everyone came down to the lower level for the cocktail hour as the catering company switched the room over into a beautiful reception.” A quaint and almost secretive balcony sits adjacent to the room, the perfect escape for you and your guests to get that breath of fresh air while looking over Main Street.
Don Mears Photography
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FEATURED CONTENT
Classic Photographers
Don Mears Photography
The harmonization of new and old, perfectly coming together into a venue unlike any other. Rebecca Burt Photography
Rebecca Burt Photography
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Don Mears Photography
Main Street Station, in all its parts, is beautiful on its own. You don’t really need too much decor, the space speaks for itself. Completely unique and unlike any other spot on the East Coast, you can create your wedding vision. From the highway, your guests will be impressed. The glass shed and original clock tower standing tall against the backdrop of Shockoe Bottom. The clock tower was the palate for the entire building and made an appearance on national television in 2018. When Richmond was named one of the cities in season 14 of ABC’s The Bachelorette, the Main Street Station team knew the lucky couple had to come to the Station. The couple had their date in the empty train shed and then sealed the deal with a kiss on the top of the clock tower. Large floor to ceiling windows let in loads of light, giving you the feeling of being outside, without having to worry about the weather. Since the entire train station is climate controlled, it doesn’t matter if you’re getting married on a snowy February Saturday or the hottest day in August, your experience inside of Main Street Station will be just as spectacular. When getting married at Main Street Station, there’s the sense of being part of an integral part of Richmond. Known as “The Welcome Mat of Richmond,” Main Street Station is bringing an exquisite air to the River City. The harmonization of new and old, perfectly coming together into a venue unlike any other. Transport your guests to a wedding experience they’ve never had before without losing that sense of YOU on your big day.
Main Street Station has been a landmark in Downtown Richmond since 1901. The station offers two event spaces, perfect for any size. For more information and booking inquiries please call: (804) 646-1862 www.MainStreetStationRichmond.com 1500 E. Main Street, Richmond, VA 23219
Molly Scott Photography
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Fulfill your dream of a
Perfect Wedding!
When you say I do at Adams International School’s Big Red Barn, you support a growing Montessori community of learning. Virginia Barn Wedding at Adams International School in Maidens, Virginia offers a number of ideal settings for casual and formal events. Our venue features beautiful open space that is a blank canvas for you to fully customize.
www.virginiabarnwedding.com • hello@virginiabarnwedding.com 1655 Broad Street Road Maidens, VA 23102
Call now for a tour!
804.784.0141
Steps to Finding your
DREAM VENUE By Paula Clark Ramirez
Paige Stevens Photography
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J. Cameron Photography
You're engaged! Now what? Finding your perfect wedding venue is the very next step after the engagement. Not to worry, there are many choices to suit every couples’ vision and dream space. Chances are you have imagined something very specific and may even have a Pinterest board at the ready. Before scheduling your first tour, here are some strategic steps to help guide you along the wedding way. Decide to be open in your exploration. While you have most likely honed in on having a lavish outdoor wedding or a traditional church ceremony, begin your journey to find the perfect venue as open-minded as possible. Who knows, you may fall in love with a space that is even better than you envisioned!
Create a budget with contingencies in place.
Narrow your places down to the top three. All venues are not created equal, and offerings can vary greatly depending on where you visit. Comparing “apples to apples” is your best bet. Put all three side by side with pros, cons, inclusions, and costs. One of the measurables should also be how much it warms your heart on a scale of one to five. Looking at your top three venues objectively will bring to light your personal favorite.
Planning a wedding can be super fun or extremely stressful; the difference is all in your attitude. Hayes & Fisk Photography
Knowing how much money you have to work with for your wedding is key. There are, however, some line items that will either be forgotten, changed, or even removed altogether once planning gets rolling. In any case, having a 5-10% contingency in your budget allows for unforeseen expenses and gives you a little wiggle room for something extra special.
Choose your “must-haves.” There are usually a handful of non-negotiable items or features that couples insist on having for their big day. Sit down together (perhaps with a bottle of wine) and come to a decision on what aspects of the day are most important to the two of you…is it food, music or the venue? Focusing your efforts and dollars on these items will prevent making costly mistakes.
Above all else, enjoy the process! Planning a wedding can be super fun or extremely stressful; the difference is all in your attitude. This will arguably be one of the grandest and most exciting parties you will ever throw, so be sure to focus on what it’s all about…celebrating your love and having the time of your life! Paula Clark Ramirez is the Proprietor of Historic Mankin Mansion Private Wedding & Event Estate in Richmond, VA. Paula and her husband Martin have lovingly restored this National Landmark to its original grandeur and are honored to share this treasured landmark with couples and their families. The property features stunning architectural views and is the past recipient of countless awards and features in Forbes, Orbitz, The Travel Channel, Martha Stewart Weddings, The Huffington Post and Oprah Magazine.
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Tall + Small Photography
THE
PERFECT SPACE TO
START FOREVER
Shalese Danielle Photography
Located between Richmond & Charlottesville, Madison at the Mill is a fully restored historic silk mill factory with original hardwood floors and gorgeous natural light. NOW BOOKING weddings at our new fully outdoor space, Madison on the Hill! Madison on the Hill features expansive mountain views for your outdoor ceremony & tented receptions, rehearsal dinners, engagement sessions, or parties!
Contact events@madisonatthemill.com or call 540.308.5874 for more details! @MadisonAtTheMill NuGen Media
FEATURED CONTENT
OAKDALE From FARMLAND to DREAM VENUE By Marissa McCormick
Just off the beaten path, The Richmond Weddings™ Team traveled to Ashland Road to explore and discover one of Richmond’s newest and most unique venues, Oakdale. We chatted with Chris Stem, Partner and Bookings Coordinator for the farm. Driving onto the pristine grounds, the overall ambiance of Oakdale is like something out of a storybook. A pristine white barn sits small in the foreground against the forest behind it. Trees, that look like they’ve been there forever, sway in the ever-present breeze. The dark, lush green giving way to those signature Virginia technicolor leaves in the fall. The venue is set up to face the sunset, so you and your guests can watch the yellow sun settle on the Hanover Vegetable Farm across the street. And in the corner of the picture sits a quaint and quiet pond with a landing, a magical place to say your “I do’s.” Chris explains, “You’ll have the trees in the background, lights, and power down there.” The breeze plays on the surface of the pond as light
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shimmers off of it, a little slice of heaven. And you’re not just limited to a pond ceremony. “You can get married on any part of the 100 acres you want to. If you want more of a field, we’ll have groomed pastures for that.” Even though the venue was brand new in the fall of 2019, just like its quiet surroundings, it seems like it’s been there forever. Basking in the silence, one would never know that you’re less than 10 minutes from both Short Pump and Downtown Ashland. It’s almost boggling to wrap your head around. “The location of the property really meant something to us, you’re close to amenities, but you’re far enough out that you can have a beautiful, private, unique wedding.”
When starting this endeavor, one thing was completely clear to Chris and his partners, Jeff Sears and Eric Pair, keep the integrity of the land and showcase its beauty as farmland. The name Oakdale comes from Jeff Sears’ family farm, a little down the way on Ashland Road. Passed down from generation to generation since 1902, it wasn’t just the name Oakdale that continued, but the importance of keeping agricultural integrity. Up until 2018, Oakdale was used to raise cattle and collect hay, leaving the resulting land completely groomed and manicured. “We wanted to stick to that tradition of farming and the fourth generation. Oakdale really ties in how we came together and still holds that family history. We wanted something that had some meaning to it.” Oakdale has taken into consideration how temperamental Virginia climate can be. Along with an inclement weather plan and a tent, the venue is temperature controlled for year-round comfort. While the exterior of the building is quintessentially barn-like, the inside gives way to an industrial and totally on trend space that can accommodate up to 220 guests. Vaulted ceilings enclose the stamped concrete and the walls are suited with full windows, showcasing the countryside landscape. Along with a full bar and bathrooms, they have a bridal suite with enough sinks for all your girls to get ready. They also have a patio where Edison lights will hang, the perfect spot for your cocktail hour and just steps away from the pond ceremony location. Included in every wedding package is a day-of coordinator, so you can relax and be stress-free on your big day. They’re also including all of the tables, chairs, glassware, etc. in their 2020-2021 bookings. “You can really come and get married and all you have to do is show up and bring some food.” There’s a nice sense one gets when coming onto the grounds of Oakdale. Suddenly the hustle and bustle of Richmond life fades away and a sense of serenity replaces it. There’s also the sense that you’re part of something bigger. A lineage of farm owners that are working to preserve the beautiful land that decades of grazing has led to. While some aspects of Oakdale are blatantly beautiful, there are other more subtle details that make this place unlike any other. The quiet moo of a cow in the distance, the rustling of the forest, the breeze playing through acres of wildflowers, the shade of a tree that was around since before you were born. A slice of heaven and not too far off the beaten path, Oakdale checks off so many boxes as a venue. And behind the venue is a group of dedicated families ready to make your wedding dream come true.
Oakdale is now taking bookings for 2020-2021 and beyond. Visit their website, www.oakdalerva.com or email info@oakdalerva.com for booking inquiries or more information. 13497 Ashland Road, Ashland, VA 23005
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Unrivaled Events. Boutique Lodging. Thoughtful Cuisine.
Create your dream wedding today! 1500 Manakin Road, Manakin-Sabot, Virginia 23103 www.doverhall.com
(804) 784-6051
doverhallweddings
Celebrate New Beginnings at Historic Waverly Estate A Historic Virginia Estate offering indoor and outdoor options for an unforgettable wedding Single Day and Full Weekend Weddings with Onsite Accommodations
Verlee Bishop Weddings
434-321-4032 www.waverlyestate.com waverlyestateevents@gmail.com
Beautiful New 5,000 sq ft Event Building Coming March 2020!
Kay De Lane Photography
Ashley Dorton Photography
A place where history is made.
Grant & Deb Photographers
Experience old-world elegance with new-world refinement as you begin the next chapter of your story together surrounded by lush landscapes and landmark homes. The grounds feature three carefully restored,18th-century properties, each tastefully and meticulously appointed for all your event needs. Whether you’re hosting 25 guests or 250, our facilities provide the perfect setting for all types of ceremonies and gatherings. Grant & Deb Photographers
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Grant & Deb Photographers
Photo Courtesy Pam Radwani Shaun Malik - 88 Love Stories
Grant & Deb Photographers
With a variety of ceremony and reception locations, there are endless possibilities for an exquisite event! On-site accommodations available.
CUMBERLAND PLANTATION
MOSS SIDE MANOR
CEDAR LANE
Contact McKenzie Gardner to plan your event today. 804-514-2077 | cumberlandplantation.com
Beyond the Wedding Party: How to Include Loved Ones on Your Special Day By Paula Clark Ramirez
Hayes & Fisk Photography
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When your wedding day arrives, you will surely be surrounded by family, friends, and other loved ones who came to celebrate your commitment. It’s common to want to include everyone who has shared in your relationship, but let’s be real – you can only have so many bridesmaids and groomsmen! For those who want to include people beyond the wedding party, there are plenty of ways to involve your loved ones throughout your special day. Remember: it’s your day and you make the rules! Here are some of our favorite ways of incorporating friends and family. Greeters When guests show up at your wedding, you’ll want someone to welcome them, right? Rather than having the venue staff do this or hiring greeters, ask friends or family to take their place. The role will free them of responsibilities by the time the ceremony starts but will provide them with a special place to be. Plus, they’ll feel very much included if you choose to invite them to the rehearsal dinner.
Paige Stevens Photograph y
Ushers Similar to greeters, don’t hesitate to ask loved ones to be ushers in your wedding. Even if you’re not having assigned sides, it can help to have someone guiding guests to the ceremony spot. Ushers can play the part by helping grandma to her seat and ensuring the sides are balanced, and they will be able to enjoy the rest of the celebration after the ceremony starts.
Toasts Generally, parents, the maid of honor, and the best man give toasts at the reception, but there is no rule set in stone! Consider asking your grandparents, a beloved aunt, or a mutual friend to give a toast. In some cases, a friend may not be able to commit to the time investment of being in the wedding party, but they may be honored to give a speech on the big day! Of course, these are only three suggestions for including your loved ones. Every wedding is different, and it may even make sense to customize your day to include someone important in another manner, like a special dance or a meaningful speech to honor them. It's your day — have fun with it! Paula and Martin Ramirez are the proprietors of Historic Mankin Mansion, a wedding resort and bed & breakfast. They have lovingly restored this national landmark to its original grandeur and are honored to share the treasured estate with couples and their families. For more information, please visit www.historicmankinmansion.com.
y Photograph Paige Stevens
It’s your day – have fun with it! R I C HMO NDW E D D IN G S.C OM
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The Estate AT INDEPENDENCE
Effortlessly Elegant
Sarah & Dave Photography
RECEPTIONS • REHEARSAL DINNERS • BRIDAL SHOWERS ENGAGEMENT PARTIES • OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS The Estate at Independence is the effortlessly elegant venue to make all of your wedding dreams come true. The modern interior and impressive estate building nestled among expansive rolling hills with spectacular sunsets provides the perfect backdrop for any style bride. With numerous ceremony and reception sites, you are sure to find the perfect match. We provide everything you will need, and our experienced coordinators take care of all the details so you can focus on loving every minute of the experience.
OrrieGainesPhotography.com | info@OrrieGainesPhotography.com Studio: 804.308.2778 | Cell: 267.322.8077 804-601-8401 • events@playigc.com • 600 Founders Bridge Blvd, Midlothian, VA 23113
Paige Stevens Photography
EXIT Stage Left!! By Tommy Waters
Once the “I Do’s” are said and the cake has been cut, your night doesn’t have to end! If you want to have one of those hugely popular exit pictures (that you know you drool over), you can easily make that happen. So, what are some popular ways to do a grand exit? 1. Bubbles! You can’t go wrong with bubbles. They reflect light beautifully and if everyone blows them at the right time, they create a magical picture that will give you the warm and fuzzies every time you look at it! Also, they are super easy to transport and last a very long time. Not only can you order them early, but you can have a bunch since they are usually in very small containers. It’s a win-win! 2. Sparklers! Sparklers are an amazing way to get that one-of-
a-kind picture that will be amazing to look at forever. You can easily order these online, and it can be done early so you don’t need to stress. (Pro Tip: Sparklers are not allowed either by facility policy or by the law in some towns, counties, and cities. Make sure to confirm with your venue that they are allowed before ordering them.)
3. Glow Sticks! These are VERY popular and are growing
more and more by the day. They are not wet like bubbles or hot like sparklers, but they show up great in pictures. You can get unique and fun shapes, too.
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4. Confetti! Did you know that you can get biodegradable
confetti that is safe for outdoors and won’t hurt the environment? It’s TRUE! Confetti is amazing in any exit pictures, and it really makes a statement. Plus it floats, which eliminates the need to throw it at the same time like bird seeds. So skip the boring exit! You can have a truly memorable moment for just a few dollars delivered right to your door. Once you choose the perfect exit just coordinate it with your planner and/or venue, and you will be set to make yours amazing!
Tommy Waters is a wedding planner, event coordinator, published writer, national public speaker (and skilled bartender) with The Renaissance, an all-inclusive wedding ceremony and reception venue based in downtown Richmond’s exciting Arts District. To learn more about The Renaissance, please visit www.renaissanceva.com.
The Fat arm
Molly Lichten Photography
RockyCreek
Molly Lichten Photography
Molly Lichten Photography
CELEBRATING LOVE AND LIFE
540.522.8854 | www.thefarmatrockycreek.com | ellie@thefarmatrockycreek.com | 1658 Evergreen Rd. Louisa Va 23093
HayesandFisk.com
RVA’s newest event venue!
HayesandFisk.com
HayesandFisk.com
HayesandFisk.com
HayesandFisk.com
David Abel Photography
www.TheEstateAtRiverRun.com | Hello@TheEstateAtRiverRun.com | 804.887.0171 2421 River Road West | Maidens, VA 23102
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Virginia Ashley Photography
Alex Mari Photography
Caiti Garter Photography
Savannah Faith Photography
Alex Mari Photography
804-921-8224 | barnattimbercreek.com
Thoughtful Ways to
GIVE BACK
J. Cameron Photography
with Your Wedding
By Michelle Walsh
While the average wedding costs go up every year, you shouldn’t feel guilty about wanting the best for your special day. One way to help justify costs is to make an effort to give back with your wedding. Say “I Donate” while saying “I Do!” 1. Invitations
Choosing where you order your invitations can make a big impact on not only non-profit organizations but the Earth as well. Look for companies that offer 100% post-consumer recycled paper. Or keep an eye out for companies that plant a tree with every order in U.S. national parks to rebuild the forests that have been destroyed by wildfires. You can also use companies that print on seed paper, then your guests can plant your invitations and watch the wildflowers grow. 62
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2. Bridesmaids and Groomsmen Gifts
When giving gifts that say thank you to the amazing people in your life, choose to buy products that help artisans around the world. Shop marketplaces that are ethically-sourced and Fair Trade Certified. These companies pay fair wages to help people in poverty across 30 developing countries.
3. Venue
Where you choose to get married can have benefits long after the big day. Look at venues that support a worthy cause like nonprofit organizations, schools, museums, historical sites, and parks. The revenue generated from weddings and other events helps keep many of these beautiful venues open and running.
Emily Bartell Photography
These are just a few of the ways to give back. You can have the wedding of your dreams while helping others, giving back to your community, and making the world a better place. 4. Wedding Favors
You can make a difference with the gifts you give, and your guests will love the thought behind them. Buy products made from companies that hire veterans, deaf, physically disabled, or senior citizens. There are also many companies who donate part or all their proceeds to organizations that provide emergency shelter for those displaced, sponsor pet fostering and adoptions, help the homeless, and further develop cancer research. Another option is a donation to your favorite charity in your guests’ honor.
5. Wedding Dress
After the big day, your wedding gown can help someone else feel special. Give your dress a new life! There are charities that accept gently used wedding dresses and pass them along to families or brides that otherwise couldn’t afford one. Your bridesmaids’ dresses can also be donated to less fortunate women that can’t afford a new one for prom or special event.
J. Cameron Photography
6. Food
Spread the love by donating your leftover food and desserts to help fight hunger. Homeless shelters and rescue programs would benefit from prepared food that otherwise would have been thrown out. There are some animal shelters that also accept certain donated food for their animals.
7. Flowers
You can share the feeling of joy from your wedding by donating your flowers to others. Deliver your flowers to local nursing homes, hospitals, hospice care facilities, or shelters. There are also charities that will come to your venue after the wedding is over and collect all the leftover ones to make small arrangements that they will deliver for you. These are just a few of the ways to give back. You can have the wedding of your dreams while helping others, giving back to your community, and making the world a better place. Michelle Walsh is the Wedding and Events Coordinator at Virginia Barn Wedding located in Central Virginia. This beautiful venue is located on 131 acres, provides a unique country setting full of rustic charm and stylish elegance. To learn more or to schedule a tour call/text 1-757-784-7974 or go to www.virginiabarnwedding.com. R I C HMO NDW E D D IN G S.C OM
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Northfield Plantation
Where timeless southern traditions meet modern elegance
All Photos By Heather Chipps Photography
804-921-8224 | info@northfieldplantation.com | northfieldplantation.com
The Historic John Marshall Ballrooms
Kourtney Smithson Photography
Offering two elegantly renovated ballrooms with a grand lobby, dressing suites, gentleman’s lounge, overnight guest suite, parking, and on-site catering.
Contact Amy Loving amy@JMBallrooms.com JMBallrooms.com 804.775.2355
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MIKETOPHAM.COM
YOUR SPECIAL EVENT SHOULD BE A MASTERPIECE 804.340.1590 | specialevents@VMFA.museum 66
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Dimples and Cheeks
theappleblossominn.com | theappleblossominn@gmail.com | (804) 307-3239
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RW COVER FAVE’S Photos by Paige Stevens Photography
Our cover shoot was a blast! It was hard to pick “the one!” Here are some of our favorites from the day.
We love a vintage mirror shot!
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We didn’t need to do anything to Rachel’s GORGEOUS hair!
Historic Mankin Mansion was the perfect backdrop for this issue.
Jumpsuit? Yes, please!
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RESERVEHIGHLANDS.COM
804.796.7881 | EVENTS@RESERVEHIGHLANDS.COM
Your next chapter begins here.
13497 ashland road 70
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|
ashland, va 23005
|
oakdalerva.com
WEDDINGS at CO MM ON HO US E House opens Fall 2020 Booking Now: shelby@commonhouse.com
We offer all-inclusive dining, beverage, and furnishing service with
uniquely Richmond touches to
a built-in rain plan, custom tailored
make each wedding a one-of-a-
to meet any need. Special add-ons
kind celebration.
include: a private bridal party suite
With both indoor and outdoor
Courtesy of Bonnie Sen with Linda Ha Events
At C o m m o n H o u s e , Historic design elements are blended with
with complimentary pastry platters
settings, guests can move from one
and champagne, valet parking ac-
area to the next and enjoy a differ-
commodations, and a kid-friendly
ent atmosphere: a cocktail outside,
film for younger attendees in our
a dance party within.
screening room.
www.commonhouse.com/events
434—566—0192
305 West Broad St., Richmond, Virginia.
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Paige Stevens Photography Paige Stevens Photography
Paige Stevens Photography
Historic, newly restored venue in the heart of Ashland with 3,000 square feet of venue space. depotashland.com 107 S. Railroad Ave, Ashland, Virginia
If you can dream it, we can help create it! Call our seasoned Director of Sales today! 804-639-5701 x204
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Whispering Pine Plantation
perspectivephotoco.com
804-621-3489 | whisperingpineplantation.com awhisperingpinewedding@gmail.com
FOLLOW US FOR THE LATEST
Wedding Inspiration
12641 N. Lodore Road, Amelia Court House, Virginia 23002
CREATING SPECIAL MEMORIES
FOR OVER 65 YEARS! START YOUR NEW LIFE TOGETHER
AT SWIFT CREEK MILL RUSTIC. CLASSIC ELEGANCE.
Call 804-748-5203 for the wedding you will always cherish. swiftcreekmill.com 74
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@RVAWEDDINGS R I C HMO NDW E D D IN G S.C OM
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INTIMATE FRESH & MODERN Weddings at the Hilton Richmond Downtown 5,000 sq ft ballroom providing natural light from a wall of grand windows Capacity to host a 250 seated dinner or 350 person cocktail reception All-inclusive customtailored packages
HILTON RICHMOND DOWNTOWN 501 East Broad Street Richmond, Virginia 23219 www.richmonddowntown.hilton.com
CONTACT YOUR WEDDING SPECIALIST at 804-727-2104 Julie Adams Portrait
TH E DAY YO U’ L L A LWAYS
REMEMBER D ES E RV E S A LO C ATI O N
YOU’ L L N E VE R
FORGET.
You’ve been planning and dreaming of this day for a long time. At the Omni Richmond Hotel, we are committed to delivering you a day that is nothing short of spectacular. Share every plan and dream with us — the details are our specialty.
OMNIHOTELS.COM/RICHMOND
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Celebrate with us! BRIDAL SHOWERS WELCOME PARTIES CEREMONIES & RECEPTIONS SEND-OFF BRUNCHES GUESTROOM BLOCKS
Endless possibilities at The Richmond Marriott Downtown
Meredith Hall Meredith.hall@whitelodging.com 804-343-6905 500 E BROAD ST. RICHMOND, VA 23219 Michael and Jasmine Photography
The Perks of a
Restaurant Rehearsal Dinner By Amy Cabaniss
The rehearsal dinner is often seen as the “appetizer” menu of the wedding festivities, and you’ll want to ensure that guests are wowed.
Hayes & Fisk Photography
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When it comes to your rehearsal dinner, many couples decide to host the occasion at a local restaurant. Not only is this optimal for out-oftown guests, but it can also help take the stress off of a couple that simply wants to show their party a good time in the city they love. Here are just a few reasons why hosting one at a restaurant can have a major payoff.
Customized Menu
If you’re seeking a menu with variety, uniqueness, and personalization, a restaurant rehearsal dinner is perfect. Many are not only equipped to handle large-scale orders, but they are also able to plan a personalized menu just for your special day. This is especially important for guests with special allergies who may not otherwise have many options. Couples should select one close to their venue that illustrates the type of “vibe” they are going for, casual versus intimate, for example. You’ll be asked to provide a “per head” price point, and from there the chef will work his or her magic. You’ll be able to create a menu that appeals to all tastes while also fitting within your budget. Your guests will leave satisfied and excited for the wedding festivities to come.
Specialized Service
There’s no substitute for good service. An event could have an excellent menu, but that means nothing if the staff provides poor service. Couples hosting rehearsal dinners at a restaurant can trust that their event will go off “without a hitch,” with expert-level waitstaff ready to serve everyone.
Budget Conscious
As noted before, restaurants are typically flexible in working within your budget. A rehearsal dinner hosted at a separate site may incur costs that you didn’t budget for. Things like furniture rentals, refreshments, and bartending staff. A major benefit for a rehearsal dinner at a restaurant is the streamlined costs since you’re using an existing location that has a proven track record. The rehearsal dinner is often seen as the “appetizer” menu of the wedding festivities, and you’ll want to ensure that guests are wowed. Choosing one that accurately portrays your personality and taste is a great way to kick off the celebrations! Amy Cabaniss is the Owner of Julep’s New Southern Cuisine. Julep’s is one of Richmond’s top upscale restaurants, offering quality service, creative and seasonal cocktails made with local ingredients, and Southern dishes inspired by Atlanta, Charleston, New Orleans, and Savannah cuisine. Julep’s is great for private parties, celebrations and rehearsal dinners. R I C HMO NDW E D D IN G S.C OM
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PRIVATE DINING PERFECT FOR YOUR NEXT SPECIAL EVENT
301A MALTBY BLVD 804.360.1090 WESTCOASTRVA.COM GREENGATE SHOPPING CENTER IN SHORT PUMP
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420 E. Grace St, Richmond, VA 23219 For reservations 804.377.3968 www.juleps.net
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Nicole Adele Photography
Getting Married in
RVA’s Historic Arts District By Liz Kincaid
All in One Place When starting wedding planning, you’ll realize convenience is of utmost importance. By getting married in the Arts District, you’ll truly have everything you need in one place, and not just your ceremony and reception. You’ll be able to cross almost everything off of your list. From favors to hair and makeup to your dress and tux, your wedding planning can be effortlessly easy.
Things to Do In the days leading up to your big day, you’re supposed to be relaxing right? But how can you relax when 150 of your closest family and friends are coming into town and you’re not there to entertain them? Leave that worry at the door in the Arts District. Your guests of all ages will have something to do. Send your grandparents to one of the many art galleries or a symphony performance. Send your millennial cousins to a boutique along Broad Street and maybe they’ll find an 86
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outfit for your wedding. Little ones coming to the celebration? Have your guests walk over to the Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU for a day at the museum! Here are some other ideas to keep your guests busy and happy: • Food walking tour • Jackson Ward tour • Bicycle or Segway tour • Burlesque show
Photo Opportunities Breathe some Richmond air into your wedding pictures! All along this area there are beautiful and unique murals painted by local artists. From “Greetings from Richmond” signs to giant floral designs, say cheese in front of a one-of-a-kind creation and something that is ohso-Richmond.
Nicole Adele Photography
LBGTQ Friendly The Arts District in Richmond prides itself in being inclusive and supportive to alternative weddings. There are so many options to choose from. And don’t miss Godfrey’s for a larger than life drag brunch for your bachelor/bachelorette party.
Wide Array of Weddings Whether you’re looking to have an intimate city wedding or a grand ballroom affair, the Arts District can accommodate your vision. Keeping it small? Why not have a rooftop affair with cocktails served right as the sun dips below the Richmond skyline? Or keep it quaint in an art gallery, dancing the night away as your guests admire the talent that our area has to offer.
Cure your guests’ hangover the next day with a flamingo brunch at a local hotspot. And yes, you guessed it, you can walk to those too! The Arts District has long been a hidden gem in the River City. With its harmonization between new and old and hip and historical, this is a spot both you and your great-grandparents will fall in love with. Show your guests a slice of the South and all that Richmond has to offer! Liz Kincaid is the co-owner of RVA Hospitality and an active Board Member of the Richmond Arts District Association. As co-owner of RVA Hospitality, she hopes to make the Arts District a destination for tourism, retail, art, dining, and culture. To learn more about having an Arts District wedding contact Liz at Liz@rvahospitality.com
Looking for something bigger? Explore the impressive spaces in the neighborhood, creating your dream night in a ballroom fit for royalty!
Make Transportation Easy One of the things couples tend to look over on their wedding day is transportation. How is everyone getting from ceremony to reception in time for the hors d'oeuvres? Take the guessing out of it and take The Pulse, Richmond’s public transit system. With routes starting from miles away, The Pulse is the perfect option and not to mention VERY affordable! Give your guests vouchers and help save them some money during their stay. With a bus stop right in the heart of the area, you can be dropped off right next to your venue! As the Arts District runs right through the heart of Richmond, Uber, Lyft, and other ride-sharing services will have no problem picking up and dropping off your guests. You can rest easy knowing they will get home safe and sound.
Minimize Travel Everything here is within walking distance. Get from the church to your reception on foot. Also, keep the party going at one of the many local bars. If you’re coming with a large group, it might be a good idea to call ahead! R I C HMO NDW E D D IN G S.C OM
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A True Taste of Europe in the Heart of Downtown
Catering & Events Services • Engagement Parties • Wedding Receptions Rehearsal Dinners • Bridal Luncheons • Bridal Showers 804.780.0086 | 27 West Broad St Richmond, VA 23220 rockcreekvadc@yahoo.com | bistrotwentyseven.com
Alex Tenser
Alex Tenser
Ashley Link
venues + catering Betty Clicker
events@havana59.net
PRIVATE DINING
w w w.ha va na 59 .co m
3411 WEST CARY STREET 804.353.3411 I EASTCOASTRVA.COM
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804.780.2822
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PRIVATE ROOM AVAILABLE
Engagement Celebrations | Bridal Showers | Bridal Luncheons | Rehersal Dinners | Receptions
GreenGate | 12221 W Broad St | Henrico, Va 23233 804.869.5338 | redsaltprivatedining@gmail.com | www.redsaltrva.com
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www.wildgingerrva.com jgray@eatrp.com
3734 Winterfield Rd Midlothian, VA 23113
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VENUE DIRECTORY ALTRIA THEATER
6 North Laurel Street - Richmond, VA 23220 804-592-3339 - Ad page 38
THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR MUSEUM
500 Tredegar Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-649-1861 ext. 148 - Ad page 75
THE APPLE BLOSSOM INN
6311 S. Courthouse Rd. - Providence Forge, VA 23140 804-307-3239 - Ad page 67
ATLAS 42
4032 Cox Road - Suite A - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-965-0420 - Ad page 52
BAR SOLITA
123 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23220 804-308-3605 - Ad page 89
THE BARN AT TIMBER CREEK
525 Holman Mill Road - Farmville, VA 23901 804-921-8224 - Ad page 61
BISTRO 27
27 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23220 804-780-0086 - Ad page 88
THE BOATHOUSE AT CITY POINT
701 West Randolph Road - Hopewell, VA 23860 804-616-4222 - Ad page 33
THE BOATHOUSE AT ROCKETTS LANDING
4708 East Old Main Street - Richmond, VA 23231 804-622-2628 - Ad page 33
THE BOATHOUSE AT SUNDAY PARK
4602 Millridge Parkway - Midlothian, VA 23112 804-744-7545 - Ad page 33
THE BOLLING HAXALL HOUSE
211 East Franklin Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-643-2847 ext. 20 - Ad page 65
CEDAR LANE
9040 New Kent Highway - New Kent, VA 23124 804-514-2077 - Ad page 48-49
CELEBRATIONS AT THE RESERVOIR
4801 Woolridge Road - Moseley, VA 23120 804-739-9015 - Ad page 44
COMMON HOUSE
305 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23220 434-566-0192 - Ad page 71
THE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER AT GLEN ALLEN
2880 Mountain Road - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-261-6211 - Ad page 66
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Maximum Capacity
Indoor/Outdoor Venue Space
Outside Caterers Welcome
Wheelchair Access
ABC License Required
850
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
200
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
1,000
BOTH
YES
YES
NO
550
BOTH
CONTACT VENUE
YES
NO
185
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
200
BOTH
NO
YES
YES
200
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
150
OUTDOOR
YES
NO
NO
250
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
300
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
300
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
200
OUTDOOR
YES
NO
YES
250
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
500
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
230
BOTH
CONTACT VENUE
YES
YES
CHECK OUT MORE DETAILS AND VENUE PHOTOS ONLINE AT RICHMONDWEDDINGS.COM
CUMBERLAND PLANTATION
9007 Cumberland Road - New Kent, VA 23124 804-514-2077 - Ad page 48-49
THE DEPOT
107 South Railroad Avenue - Ashland, VA 23005 804-357-9702 - Ad page 73
THE DOMINION CLUB
6000 Dominion Club Drive - Glen Allen, VA 23059 804-360-0091 - Ad page 59
DOMINION ENERGY CENTER
600 East Grace Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-592-3339 - Ad page 38
DOVER HALL
1500 Manakin Road - Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103 804-784-6051 - Ad page 46
EAST COAST PROVISIONS
3411 West Cary Street - Richmond, VA 23221 804-353-3411 - Ad page 90
THE ESTATE AT INDEPENDENCE
600 Founders Bridge Boulevard - Midlothian, VA 23113 804-601-8401 - Ad page 54
THE ESTATE AT RIVER RUN
2421 River Road West - Maidens, VA 23102 804-887-0171 - Ad page 58
THE FARM AT ROCKY CREEK
1658 Evergreen Road - Louisa, VA 23093 540-522-8854 - Ad page 57
HANOVER TAVERN
13181 Hanover Courthouse Road - Hanover, VA 23069 804-510-0212 - Ad page 41
THE HARD SHELL - BELLGRADE
11400 West Huguenot Road - Midlothian, VA 23113 804-464-1476 - Ad page 85
THE HARD SHELL - DOWNTOWN
1411 East Cary Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-643-2333 - Ad page 85
HAVANA 59 - DOWNTOWN
16 North 17th Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-780-2822 - Ad page 90
HENRICUS HISTORICAL PARK
251 Henricus Park Road - Chester, VA 23836 804-748-1131 - Ad page 72
HILTON GARDEN INN RICHMOND INNSBROOK
4050 Cox Road - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-521-2900 - Ad page 75
Maximum Capacity
Indoor/Outdoor Venue Space
Outside Caterers Welcome
Wheelchair Access
ABC License Required
350
OUTDOOR
YES
YES
YES
175
INDOOR
YES
YES
YES
250
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
550
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
400
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
120
INDOOR
NO
NO
NO
300
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
299
BOTH
CONTACT VENUE
YES
YES
220
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
300
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
300
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
125
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
160
BOTH
NO
NO
NO
300
BOTH
NO
YES
YES
125
BOTH
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YES
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VENUE DIRECTORY HILTON RICHMOND DOWNTOWN
501 East Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-727-2104 - Ad page 76
HISTORIC MANKIN MANSION
4300 Oakleys Lane - Richmond, VA 23223 804-737-7773 - Ad pages Inside Front Cover & 1
THE JEFFERSON HOTEL
101 West Franklin Street - Richmond, VA 23220 866-247-2305 - Ad page 3
THE JOHN MARSHALL BALLROOMS
101 North 5th Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-775-2355 - Ad page 65
JULEP'S NEW SOUTHERN CUISINE
420 East Grace Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-377-3968 - Ad page 84
LA GROTTA RISTORANTE
529 East Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-644-2466 - Ad page 83
LINDEN ROW INN
100 East Franklin Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-225-5841 - Ad page 60
MADISON AT THE MILL
323 North Madison Road - Orange, VA 22960 540-308-5874 - Ad page 39
MAGGIANO'S LITTLE ITALY
11800 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23233 804-253-0910 - Ad page 82
MAGNOLIA GREEN GOLF CLUB
7001 Awesome Drive - Moseley, VA 23120 804-639-5701 ext. 204 - Ad page 73
MAIN STREET STATION
1500 East Main Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-1862 - Ad page 7
MAMA J'S
415 North 1st Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-337-7678 - Ad page 105
THE MANOR HOUSE AT KINGS CHARTER
9400 Charter Crossing - Mechanicsville, VA 23116 804-550-0020 - Ad page 60
MARRIOTT RICHMOND SHORT PUMP
4240 Dominion Boulevard - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-965-9500 - Ad page 78
MAYMONT
1700 Hampton Street - Richmond, VA 23220 804-358-7167 - Ad page 32
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Maximum Capacity
Indoor/Outdoor Venue Space
Outside Caterers Welcome
Wheelchair Access
ABC License Required
270
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
200
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
400
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
500
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
200
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
135
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
125
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
300
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
200
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
200
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
2,210
INDOOR
YES
YES
YES
100
OUTDOOR
NO
YES
NO
200
BOTH
CONTACT VENUE
NO
YES
300
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
200
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
CHECK OUT MORE DETAILS AND VENUE PHOTOS ONLINE AT RICHMONDWEDDINGS.COM
MOSS SIDE MANOR
8501 New Kent Highway - New Kent, VA 23124 804-514-2077 - Ad page 48-49
NORTHFIELD PLANTATION
189 Old Buckingham Road - Cumberland, VA 23040 804-921-8224 - Ad page 64
OAKDALE
13497 Ashland Road - Ashland, VA 23005 info@oakdalerva.com - Ad page 70 THE OLD ORIGINAL BOOKBINDER’S SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE
2306 East Cary Street - Richmond, VA 23223 804-643-6900 - Ad page 91
OMNI HOTELS AND RESORTS
100 South 12th Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-344-7000 - Ad page 78
THE PLACE AT INNSBROOK
4036-C Cox Road - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-346-2100 - Ad page 72
RED SALT CHOPHOUSE & SUSHI
12221 West Broad Street - Henrico, VA 23233 804-869-5338 - Ad page 92
THE RENAISSANCE
107 West Broad Street - Suite 300 - Richmond, VA 23220 804-649-3373 - Ad page 45
THE RESERVE AT THE HIGHLANDS
8136 Highland Glen Drive - Chesterfield, VA 23838 804-796-7881 - Ad page 70
RICHMOND MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN
500 East Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-343-6905 - Ad page 79
ROMA RISTORANTE ITALIANO
7240 Bell Creek Road - Mechanicsville, VA 23111 804-559-9200 - Ad page 107
SAM MILLER'S
1210 East Cary Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-644-5465 - Ad page 84
THE SAVORY GRAIN
2043 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23220 804-592-4000 - Ad page 100
SEVEN SPRINGS
6831 Dabneys Mill Road - Manquin, VA 23106 804-769-2358 - Ad page 53
STONEHENGE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
1000 Farnham Drive - Richmond, VA 23236 804-378-7841 - Ad page 73
Maximum Capacity
Indoor/Outdoor Venue Space
Outside Caterers Welcome
Wheelchair Access
ABC License Required
200
OUTDOOR
YES
NO
YES
1,000
BOTH
YES
NO
YES
220
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
250
BOTH
NO
YES
YES
500
INDOOR
NO
YES
YES
200
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
125
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
220
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
220
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
1,000
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
55
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
400
INDOOR
NO
YES
CONTACT VENUE
150
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
200
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
150
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
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VENUE DIRECTORY SWIFT CREEK MILL THEATRE
17401 Jefferson Davis Hwy - Colonial Heights, VA 23834 804-748-5203 - Ad page 74
TARRANT'S WEST
11129 Three Chopt Road - Richmond, VA 23233 804-205-9009 - Ad page 89
TAZIKI’S
4024-C Cox Road - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-588-3718 - Ad page 104
UNITY OF BON AIR
923 Buford Road - North Chesterfield, VA 23235 804-320-5584 - Ad page 93
VIRGINIA BARN WEDDING
1655 Broad Street Road - Maidens, VA 23102 804-784-0141 - Ad pages 34-35
THE VIRGINIA CLIFFE INN
2900 Mountain Road - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-382-0500 - Ad page 40
VIRGINIA CROSSINGS HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER
1000 Virginia Center Parkway - Glen Allen, VA 23059 804-727-1404 - Ad page 55
VIRGINIA HOUSE
4301 Sulgrave Road - Richmond, VA 23221 804-340-1800 - Ad page 67
VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS
200 North Arthur Ashe Blvd. - Richmond, VA 23220 804-340-1588 - Ad page 66
VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND CULTURE
428 North Boulevard - Richmond, VA 23220 804-340-1800 - Ad page 71
WAVERLY ESTATE
11586 Courthouse Road - Lunenburg, VA 23952 434-321-4032 - Ad page 47
WEST COAST PROVISIONS
301A Maltby Boulevard - Henrico, VA 23233 804-360-1090 - Ad page 83
THE WESTIN RICHMOND
6631 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23230 804-282-8444 - Ad page 77
WHISPERING PINE PLANTATION
12641 N. Lodore Road - Amelia Court House, VA 23002 804-621-3489 - Ad page 74
WILD GINGER
3734 Winterfield Road - Midlothian, VA 23113 804-869-5338 - Ad page 92
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Maximum Capacity
Indoor/Outdoor Venue Space
Outside Caterers Welcome
Wheelchair Access
ABC License Required
220
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
90
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
100
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
200
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
NO MAXIMUM
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
225
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
350
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
250
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
1,000
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
250
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
300
BOTH
YES
YES
YES
55
INDOOR
NO
YES
NO
550
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
200
OUTDOOR
YES
NO
YES
40
BOTH
NO
YES
NO
GO TO RICHMONDWEDDINGS.COM AND CLICK ON THE VENUE DROPDOWN. USE OUR VENUE FILTER TOOL TO NARROW DOWN YOUR OPTIONS!
Hayes & Fisk Photography
caterers Let’s talk food! Your wedding menu is an extension of you and your sweetheart’s personalities. Whether that be a menu filled with your favorite foods or cuisine that matches the theme of your big day, our amazing caterers can help make it happen. Here we will help you brainstorm your dream menu and provide some mouthwatering inspiration along the way!
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FULL SERVICE CATERER WITH ALL YOUR RENTALS, STAFFING AND ABC LICENSE NEEDS COVERED!
We have been creating events in Richmond and the state of Virginia for the last 10 years. Whether big or small, we will make your wedding day as perfect as you imagined from start to finish. We offer custom designed menus unique to you or you can use one of our pre-set menus.
Butler’s Unique Catering 804-519-9278 8903 Three Chopt Rd., Suite E Henrico, VA 23229 LGBTQ Friendly!
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www.thesavorygrain.com • jami@thesavorygrain.com • 804-592-4000
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Romantic Friday Weddings
Emily Bartell Photography
at Dusk
By Paula Clark Ramirez
One of the most common comments that couples make after their wedding is “It all went by so fast!” You spend months planning the perfect celebration, somehow manage to get all of the people you love in the same spot, and then in four or five short hours, it’s all over! What if you could extend the party from a few hours to a few days and enjoy a longer wedding weekend?
Holding a beautiful dusk wedding on a Friday is a great way to extend the celebration and enjoy time with your friends and loved ones on a relaxed timeline. Friday evening weddings leave your whole Saturday free. You can plan smaller events that allow you to socialize when the spotlight is off. Schedule a casual Saturday post-wedding brunch and an evening pub crawl. Or book a laid-back all-day excursion. Your imagination is the limit! The wedding industry considers Saturday evenings gold. They are in the highest demand and usually cost the most. Friday night weddings may actually save you money and open up weekends that you thought were previously out of the question due to existing bookings. Be sure
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to ask your venue and vendors if there are special rates for Friday evening weddings – you may very well be pleasantly surprised. Friday dusk weddings also give you more time to relax. There is no rush to get up at the crack of dawn to get your hair and makeup done. Instead, you can take some time to enjoy your morning with a massage or a small private lunch with friends before you start to get ready for the festivities. A little-known benefit to Friday evening weddings is that they can help you pare your guest list down to include only the people who matter most to you. Since Friday is a workday for many, not everyone can take time off to attend. View that as a positive since only your best and closest friends and family will make the effort to be there, and that is exactly who you want surrounding you when you say I do. Whether you are more concerned with extending your party beyond just a few hours to a nice long weekend or you simply want to keep your guest list under control, you’ll find Friday dusk weddings are a romantic, often underestimated, yet wonderful opportunity to make your wedding goals and dreams come true! Paula Clark Ramirez is the Proprietor of Historic Mankin Mansion Private Wedding & Event Estate in Richmond, VA. Paula and her husband Martin have lovingly restored this National Landmark to its original grandeur and are honored to share this treasured landmark with couples and their families. The property features stunning architectural views and is the past recipient of countless awards and features in Forbes, Orbitz, The Travel Channel, Martha Stewart Weddings, The Huffington Post and Oprah Magazine.
804-740-6301 12379 Gayton Rd Richmond, VA 23238
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SOUTHERN CATERING FULL SERVICE • PICK UP • DELIVERY • FESTIVALS RENTAL OPTIONS UPON REQUEST
Find us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @MamaJsCatering 804-337-7678 | www.mamajskitchen.com catering@mamajskitchen.com
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Emily Bartell Photography
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Rehearsal Dinner Considerations By Philip Mannino
Planning a rehearsal dinner is an important part of the wedding process that sometimes gets overlooked. There are three major points to think about when you begin.
Location The most important is the location of the rehearsal dinner. Some are held at the same place as the wedding while others are usually held in a private dining space at a nearby restaurant. The locale is very important because it dictates the whole rehearsal from timing to who to invite. Hosting the dinner at the wedding venue is great because there is not much traveling after rehearsal. However, having it at a separate place is also nice because you can invite more guests and family to meet at a central location for everyone, especially if you have out of town attendees. Caterers and restaurants book way in advance so be sure to consider this when selecting the restaurant.
Food The last item that is also important when planning a rehearsal dinner is the food! Choosing a great caterer to prepare the meal or amazing restaurant to host the dinner is equally important. The food is always a memorable part of the rehearsal just as it is at the wedding the following day. A rehearsal dinner is attended by the bridal party, family, and friends that you invite so it needs to make a great impression. It is always a good idea to try the food before selecting the caterer or restaurant. Ask the caterer for a tasting or visit the restaurant with your parents and fiancĂŠ for a dinner date to check out the options available. Philip Mannino is the Co-Owner of Roma Restaurant & Catering along with his older brother. Philip was raised in the family business and has been working in the restaurant since he was ten years old. His family now has two local restaurants which cater weddings and special events throughout the Richmond area. Call 804-559-9200 or email phillip@romaitalian.com for booking info!
DĂŠcor Another point to consider is the type of decor for the dinner. Having nicely decorated tables with subtle touches can set the tone for the evening. Floral arrangements or centerpieces are sometimes all that are needed to make the dinner feel special. Runners and candles also make great features and can tie in your wedding colors for the weekend. A display table is one of the final touches that you may consider. Photos of the couple and small party favors or dessert would be a must. Remember, your rehearsal dinnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ambiance sets the tone for the wedding the next day.
Serving the Richmond area since 1979!
Private Dining Room | Full Service Mobile Kitchen Catering Weddings, Rehearsal Dinners, & Any Special Occasion
Romaristoranteitaliano
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Emily Bartell Photography
Calculating Cocktails We know how to celebrate
Let’s do the math
Total Wine & More’s event specialists have product expertise you won’t find anywhere else. And we know how the right beverages can enhance your wedding theme. Let’s talk about how to stock a bar, create a signature cocktail and find the wines to complement your menu, all without breaking your budget.
Use these simple formulas to determine roughly how many bottles you’ll need for your reception.
Guide to serving sizes
SPIRITS:
Wine 60 Servings (5 oz. glass) 12-Bottle Case Sparkling/Champagne 90 Servings (3 oz. glass) 12-Bottle Case Vodka 1.75L 39 Servings (1.5 oz.)
Tequila 1.75L 39 Servings (1.5 oz.) Rum/Gin/Whiskey 750ML 16 Servings (1.5 oz.) Beer Keg 164 Servings (12 oz. glass) 15.5 Gallon
Information provided by Total Wine. Learn more at www.totalwine.com
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A = Number of Guests
WINE:
A x B x 0.5 ÷ 5 =
750ml Bottles Needed
A x B x 0.3 =
12 oz. Servings of Beer Needed
A x B x 0.2 ÷ 15 =
750ml Bottles Needed
Not serving cocktails? Plan on a mix of 60 percent wine, 40 percent beer. WINE:
A x B x 0.6 ÷ 5 =
750ml Bottles Needed
BEER:
A x B x 0.4 =
B = Drinks required per guest
BEER:
12 oz. Servings of Beer Needed
Based on length of party
1 hour = 2 drinks 2 hours = 3 drinks 3 hours = 4 drinks 4 hours = 5 drinks 5 hours = 6 drinks
A Signature Soirée By Laura Silva, CPCE
Signature drinks have become a staple at almost every wedding nowadays. These cocktails, often passed to guests during the first hour of an event, serve a few different purposes.
Boathouse Mojito
PREPARATION , and Place limes, mint ss gla t pin a simple in Muddle Add liquor Add ice Shake 20x ter Top with soda wa
2½ oz. Cruzan Light Rum 10 mint leaves 3 lime wedges 1 oz. house-made simple soda water
The drinks allow guests to avoid a line at the bar when they enter as they are swiftly passed a cocktail by a server and most importantly, they often allow for an extra level of personalization from the couple celebrating their special day. Signature drinks are often unique to the couple tying the knot, whether it’s a favorite one they’ve shared together throughout their relationship, or a nod to a special trip they’ve taken together in the past, or the honeymoon they are looking forward to. Cocktail selections by the couple tend to fall in line with the season when they are celebrating their wedding. During the fall season, many wedding couples may choose something like a Bourbon Apple Cider cocktail as a signature cocktail. During the warmer summer months, couples might look to lighter drinks like a mojito or a margarita when they know guests will be looking for something refreshing. Signature cocktails can also help to tell the story of a relationship. For instance, there was a couple that chose an orange crush as their cocktail of choice. They named it the “Orange Concussion” because the groom accidentally gave the bride a concussion while kayaking after drinking orange crush cocktails on one of their first dates! As you are planning your special day, consider serving your guests a signature drink and using one of the recipes we’ve shared here.
Cheers!
El Barco Marg
2 oz. Blanco Tequila 1 oz. Triple Sec 1 oz. fresh lim e juice
arita
PREPARATIO N Add liquors to mixing tin Add fresh lim e juice Add ice Shake 20X Strain over fresh ice
Laura Silva, CPCE, is the Director of Events for HOUSEpitality Family. HOUSEpitality Family is a locally-owned group of family-run restaurants and event venues that share the same mission, to celebrate life one bite at a time. HOUSEpitality Family includes four locations of The Boathouse, three Casa del Barco locations, along with Island Shrimp Co.
Kentucky Bourbon Cider 1 oz. Kentucky Bourbon er 4 oz. Spiced Apple Cid
PREPARATION nish with an Serve cold over ice, gar d lemon wheel. orange wedge or charre Cider, adding Serve hot by heating the coffee cup, and to Bourbon in a mug of on stick. garnishing with a cinnam
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HAPPINESS ON TAP
info@getcozybars.com
@getcozyvintagemobilebars
getcozybars.com
Paige Stevens Photography
rentals Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve booked your venue, now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to fill the space. Rentals, amongst other things, are essential! Have you ever shown up to an empty wedding? No! In this section we share everything you need to know about finding the perfect lighting, tables, chairs, and more to bring your wedding to life!
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YOUR GO-TO GUIDE:
Booking Wedding Rentals
By David Darby
“How far in advance do I need to book my rentals?” might be one of the mostasked questions that rental companies receive. It’s the perfect question to start with! Some rental items are one-of-a-kind while others are stocked by the thousands, so with all this variation, when do you reserve what? First things first, season matters. If you are having your wedding in the spring or autumn in Virginia you are within “wedding season.” This is when the majority of couples get married and inventory is in higher demand than the summer and winter. If your date falls within this timeframe you may want to book further ahead.
12 - 8 MONTHS OUT Beat the crowd. After you book your venue and caterer you are able to accurately assess what additional items you may need to rent. Does your venue have a fully stocked kitchen or do you need an oven? Is it an indoor venue or will you need tenting? Some venues are all-inclusive and only require minor aesthetic rentals, while some are more like a perfect backdrop in which you need to bring in the majority of the items. The rentals you should prioritize booking are specialty items that are only stocked in limited quantities. Lighting and tents are typically a top priority and should be something you lock in early. These items are essential to your space and the choice between different styles of lighting or tents can define the theme of your wedding. A sailcloth tent is going to create a vastly different mood than a clear tent, and many other services are going to depend on choices like this. You would typically use different lighting methods for each of these tents and each type offers different attachment points for both lighting and florals.
Emily Bartell Photography
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This is also the time to book your statement pieces. Are you looking for that perfect archway? Or maybe custom manufactured wooden poles for your tent? Don’t forget the fabulous chairs that make the room pop! Get these booked before everyone else!
8 - 6 MONTHS OUT Life is good! You have your guest count narrowed down to an approximate number and are working on your first layouts. At this point, you want to have a general style in mind. This is going to help when reserving tables, chairs, dancefloors, and all the other hard goods for your wedding. These items are going to be the core of your space, where your guests sit, where the food is served, and so on. Having a style in mind will help you make choices between various rental items. Would you rather have bare wood tables or beautiful linens? Would you want rustic-style chairs or something more modern? When determining how many tables and chairs to rent a good rule of thumb is to reserve for your highest estimate guest count and then back the numbers down after you start getting RSVPs.
Emily Bartell Photography
6 - 4 MONTHS OUT It’s getting real! You’re just a few months out and your vision is coming together. Your Emily Bartell Photography Pinterest board is full and invitations are about to be mailed. By now you are refining your style and are ready to choose your tabletop items and decor. Schedule an appointment with your wedding rental vendor, get in the showroom, and start mixing and matching! You’ll want to determine your ideal plates, flatware, glassware, linens, and napkins at this point in time. This is the perfect time to see your vision come to life and get a glance at how your full space is going to look and feel. It is also common to bring your planner and florist to these meetings to make sure the items you picked compliment the rest of your decor.
J. Cameron Photography
4 - 2 WEEKS OUT Your wedding is right around the corner! You have RSVPs back in hand and it’s time to refine your orders. Hopefully, this involves slightly lowering quantities of tables, chairs, and place settings. Remember, it is always better to reserve higher than your estimated guest count and reduce quantities than to reserve for less and scramble to find additional items last minute. At this point, you also want to further refine your delivery and installation time windows. Once that is done you can kick back and relax! We know it sounds overwhelming, but your rental professionals will be there to help. Getting these big decisions squared away early will leave you at ease and relaxed as you start your wedding planning. David Darby is a Wedding and Event Specialist at Rent-E-Quip, an awardwinning, full-service rental company based out of Colonial Heights and serving all of Central Virginia. Be sure to visit Rentequip.org, Instagram at @rentequipva, or call 804-520-7100 to get in touch!
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With over 175 years combined experience in the wedding and event industry, our rental consultants, warehouse staff, and delivery crew will work with you from start to finish making your wedding experience a seamless transition from party planning to PARTY PERFECT! Third Eye Studio/Daniel Marks
We carry everything from tents, staging, dance floors, tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware, and flatware - all of your wedding rental needs in one place! Contact one of our consultants to schedule a â&#x20AC;&#x153;play dateâ&#x20AC;? in our newly renovated showroom and warehouse so you can see all we have to offer for your big day!
Call us at 804-359-2400 or visit our website at www.partyperfect.com
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Joanna Hartsook Photography
Sarah and Dave Photography
Set The Mood with
Tabletop Design
By David Darby
Wedding décor is a funny thing. Each choice may Let’s start with the theme. seem simple but can become overwhelming trying The theme is the overarching mood that your wedding will portray. It can be modern, rustic, bohemian, or so much more. Themes should to figure out a way to combine every Pinterest Pin be complementary to your venue. Normally, you wouldn't utilize contemporary stylings in a barn, nor would you use bohemian in a into a cohesive design. But combining individual ballroom. Conversely, a tropical theme feels perfectly at home for choices and having them work in tandem will a beachfront wedding. When choosing a theme, it’s important to consider the season. That same tropical theme might be ideal in create the feeling you want your guests to spring or summer but if snow is on the ground it can come across as experience when they walk into your space. inorganic and forced if done incorrectly. Typically, your tablescapes are one of the very first elements your guests will notice upon entering the venue. They operate as a canvas that is designed to tell your story. With multiple tables in the room they can make a large visual impact. So, with the importance laid out, where do we start?
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Think back to significant moments in your relationship to inspire your theme. Do you want to incorporate gothic stylings to tell your story about the first vacation you had together in Europe? Be creative! First, think about what you want the room to tell your guests and work backward to communicate those feelings.
After you have picked your theme you can begin thinking about what color palette to utilize. Let your space and theme inspire you. Perhaps you are in a magnificent ballroom with purple and gold textured walls that you can bring into your design. If you are having an outdoor wedding in the spring, ask your venue what flowers will be blooming at that time. If glam is your thing then silvers and golds are going to be a hit!
Now we get to the tabletop itself ! Start by taking an inventory of what you actually need on your table and what will be placed elsewhere. For example, if you are serving a buffet-style dinner, then most likely your plates will be placed by the food station. Or if you are serving dinner family-style, then you may have ramekins, serving bowls, and carafes on the table. Think if you will be using stationery or menu cards as well as any floral centerpieces that are in the works. Once you have an idea of everything that will be utilized on the table itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to get hands-on. Start by scheduling appointments with the florist and rental companies that stand out to you. It is customary to bring any stationery or reference photos into your appointment so you can match colors and create sample table layouts. Let your event professionals curate a few looks that work within the guidelines you have provided and then get to tweaking! Every wedding design is a custom creation that tells a unique story, so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to mix, match, recombine, and try out new ideas! Planning your tabletop designs can feel like a huge undertaking, but your event professionals are there at every step of the way to help you narrow down the seemingly limitless options to help you create the feeling that your guests experience. David Darby is a Wedding and Event Specialist at Rent-E-Quip, an awardwinning, full-service rental company based out of Colonial Heights and serving all of Central Virginia. Be sure to visit Rentequip.org, Instagram at @ rentequipva, or call 804-520-7100 to get in touch! Emily Bartell Photography
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Grape Compote
A composite of mysterious and mellow purple shades. Add touches of Grape Compote to your color palette.
The Groom
Hayes & Fisk Photography
Spice up your look with a plum bow-tie and vest. This color is rich and attention-grabbing, yet doesn’t overpower the rest of the suit. Consider pairing with a gray jacket and pants for a nice contrast.
Decorations
Décor is the perfect opportunity to add touches of purple to your event. Delicate accents such as ribbon can be laced throughout centerpieces or woven into the backdrop at the altar.
Hayes & Fisk Photography
Accessories for the Wedding Party
Subtle touches of purple throughout your wedding party can tie everything together. A glimpse of a funky, purple sock on the groomsmen can be an excellent complement to your theme and make for great photos! Hayes & Fisk Photography
Hayes & Fisk Photography
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Flowers
Flowers are a great way to incorporate deeper hues into your color scheme. Mixing in greenery with rich tones keeps things fresh but doesn’t take away from the star of the show - grape compote.
Faded Denim
A soft blue conveys comfort and ease. Add touches of Faded Denim to your color palette.
Wedding Dress
Feeling bold? Consider opting for a wedding dress with muted tones of faded denim. This dusty blue color is easy on the eyes and a gentle way to introduce brightness into your wedding day.
Relish Photography by Lee
Decorations
Faded denim is a great way to bring dimension into a light and airy wedding. Your guests will remember the beautiful blue touches in the floral arrangements or the delicate additions to the centerpieces at each table.
MJ Mendoza Photography
Wedding Party
One of the most impactful ways to highlight a faded blue is with your bridesmaidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dresses. This pop of color will look great in photographs and showcase this perfectly! 124
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Relish Photography by Lee
The I do’s are done, now it’s time to
PARTY!
804.402.7397 | info@socialpartybooth.com www.socialpartybooth.com
Let Us And YoUr GUests CAptUre the rest
WWW.M2CPHOTOBOOTH.COM
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MJ Mendoza Photography
attire It's time to talk about what you're going to wear! Together with our tips, we'll help you find the perfect attire for you and your sweetheart.
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Jewelry Trend Stackable
Rings By Katie Forbidussi
The stackable trend is here to stay, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re loving it! Stackables arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just for wedding bands, as there is a large selection of metal fashion jewelry to make all your stack-goal dreams come true. From simple gold bands to diamond bolo bracelets, here are a few of our favorite metal stackables!
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GEOMETRIC RINGS Roza Collection by PeJay Creations This rose gold geometric ring from the Roza Collection by PeJay Creations is perfect as a statement ring on its own or stacked with your others! This collection comes exclusively in rose gold and features a matching bracelet, necklace, and earrings. Diamond X Ring ‘X’ rings have become more trendy, and we love this one by Henri Daussi, featuring 0.28 carats of round brilliant diamonds! This open-concept ring comes in white, yellow, and rose gold, so no matter your preference you can add some style to your stack! Chain Inspired Another big trend to watch is chain-inspired jewelry. Chain-link rings are the perfect way to add some edge to your collection!
MEN’S BANDS One unique trend we’ve seen a rise in is women wearing men’s bands as both a stackable ring and as a wedding band. This is a great idea if you’re looking for something bolder or are looking for a cigar-style ring. Men’s bands typically are thicker than most ladies’ bands, and the high-polish finish is quite popular.
THIN BANDS A classic stackable option is always a thin metal band since it pairs easily with other rings. Dainty yellow gold rings have been a huge trend and go with practically everything. We love these open concept wrap rings by Gabriel NY that feature tiny diamonds; they’re perfect if you want to add a little bit of sparkle! Whether you’re looking for a ring, necklace or bracelet, Diamonds Direct has a wide selection of stackable jewelry. With locations across the United States, unmatched inventory, and unrivaled complimentary services, you’re sure to find something you love! Shop now or visit a location near you today! To learn more and browse their expansive selection of jewelry, visit Diamonds Direct’s website at www.DiamondsDirect.com or visit their Richmond showroom at 11131 West Broad Street, Glen Allen, VA 23060. R I C HMO NDWE D D IN G S.C OM
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(804) 513-9165
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Two Dresses are Always
Better than One
By Emily Loxtercamp
Traditionally, a bride searches high and low for the perfect wedding gown. But sometimes you can’t decide on one specific look for your wedding day. Easy fix, why not have two? But are two really better than one? Let’s find out!
Hayes & Fisk Ph otogra
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phy
two
Make statements in night.
one
Lee ography by Relish Phot
1 2
The truth is, wedding dresses can be uncomfortable. Whether the ceremony gown has dozens of rhinestones on it, a grand train, a corset, or fits like a glove, it might be tricky to enjoy the special night to the fullest if you physically aren’t comfortable. Save the glam for walking down the aisle and change into a dress that still makes a statement and one you can comfortably maneuver around in during your reception. Plus, you’ll be able to easily bust a move on the dance floor! Make two statements in one night. Your wedding day is all about you. The “ooh’s” and “ahh’s” received walking down the aisle is so special, so why not get them twice? Changing the dress after the ceremony will turn all of your guests’ heads and will make for some amazing exit pictures.
TIP: It could be fun for the DJ to announce your second dress entrance in a grand fashion!
Emily Bartell Photography
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3 HayesandFisk.com
A Consignment and Sample Bridal Boutique Located in Downtown Richmond Virginia 20 East Main Street | bluesagebridal.com
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Good news! It’s a timeless trend. Having two dresses is something that’ll never go out of style. Maybe the ceremony dress is lace, and the reception one has sparkles galore. Or perhaps you wear a ball gown and change into a sleek cocktail dress. Why pass up the opportunity to strut around in two gorgeous outfits in one day? After all, you can incorporate two completely different styles into the night which will surely keep things exciting.
If you opt to do this, keep in mind that choosing two means you’re paying for two, so make sure it is in your budget. Other than that, having two dresses is NEVER a bad idea. Who said being extra glamorous was? After all, it is YOUR day, make it as memorable as possible! Emily Loxtercamp is a senior at VCU majoring in public relations. She is currently working at The Renaissance and specializes in social media, marketing, and events. The Renaissance is an allinclusive wedding, event, and banquet venue based in downtown Richmond's exciting Arts District. To learn more about The Renaissance, please visit www.renaissanceva.com.
A N N A L I S E B R I DA L .CO M
A Consignment and Sample Bridal Boutique
HayesandFisk.com
MJ Mendoza Photography
photography One of the best wedding investments you can make is hiring a photographer. As years go on, the photographs from your wedding will remain a beautiful reminder of the happiest day of your life. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to find one you connect with to capture your special day, and luckily we have plenty to choose from!
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FEATURED CONTENT
HEATHER HUGHES
PHOTOGRAPHY: From Newspapers to Newlyweds By Marissa McCormick
When choosing a photographer for your wedding, clicking with them is the number one priority. Not only are you trusting them with capturing the big day, but they’ll also share almost every moment. More than family, and even your new spouse, your photographer will be with you, experiencing it in real-time. It was this connection, being an integral part of someone’s story, that brought photographer Heather Hughes from the photojournalism world to a full-time wedding photographer in 2008. From her high school yearbook to her college paper, to eight years shooting for newspapers, Heather has always loved taking pictures of people. She explains, “The reason I wanted to get into photojournalism is because I liked to capture moments that are important to people to remember.” But most of the people Heather photographed, she never spoke to. As a journalist, you have to get used to being a part of someone’s life for a very brief moment, enough to get the perfect quote or that ideal front-page photo. Craving that relationship, Heather started to dabble in weddings in 2002, capturing her close friends’ weddings with that signature candid style. As of 2019, Heather has shot around 400 weddings. And with this expansive and impressive experience, she’s learned the key to natural, candid photos. “Laughter is the key...I say things to help
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them relax and to laugh. I do whatever I can.” And her pictures speak for themselves. Gone are the forced, stiff, and posed pictures. Instead, Heather’s couples look totally relaxed. Heather says, “I don’t want you to look like a model that’s pissed off!”
Looking at feedback from her previous couples, the words easy-going, stress-free, and extremely professional are repeated. You know when you are in the presence of someone that’s been doing their craft for a long time? That’s what it feels like talking with Heather. She states, “Experience settles nerves.” No matter what happens on your wedding day, chances are she’s seen it before and can help you laugh through it. Along with knowing the secret to good pictures, there’s also an innate appreciation of photos and the impact they have. “Photos are our memories. They bring you back, they help you remember what you were doing. I love being able to relive moments and share them with others.” The significance of being your wedding photographer isn’t lost on Heather. If anything, having a background in photojournalism, she understands it better, that the idea of the perfect shot is fleeting, momentary, and waiting to be captured.
Heather is not only looking to create a relationship for one day, but for many years to come. Like her Client for Life program, which offers portraits of you and your family every year Heather is in business. Or her Military Elopement package, where she’ll capture quicker courthouse weddings, giving it the documentation and attention it deserves. And when the wedding gallery is ready, rather than sending you a link, she likes to invite couples to her office to celebrate, excitedly reliving the moments you both shared over champagne. And although she’s based out of Newport News, Heather will travel pretty much anywhere, including the Outer Banks, for those gorgeous beach weddings. Choosing a photographer for your wedding is easier said than done. It’s hard to find that needle in the haystack that you’ll harmonize with completely. With Heather, you’ll not only find a photographer passionate and experienced in what she does but a friend, genuinely interested in capturing one of the most important days of your life. Heather elaborates, “By the end of the wedding process, I feel like we’re friends, practically family.” Heather Hughes is booking for 2020 and beyond. Visit her website: www. heatherhughesphotography.com or email heatherhughesphotography@gmail. com to book and find out more information! (757) 870 - 4006
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Every couple has a love story. Let me tell yours!
www.leslienicholephotographer.com | 850.865.0669 |
@leslienicholephotographer
Why You Need
ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS
By Debra Shepperson
I
f you’re on the fence about doing engagement photos, there are some things you may want to consider. The engagement session allows you and the photographer to work together in a more relaxed setting without the tight time schedule of a typical wedding day. It’s also a fun way for your personality and interests to shine through with props, attire, and poses.
Relish Phot
ography by
Lee
When putting together your wedding, engagement photos might not be on the top of your “must-have” list. Sometimes the reason is financial. You may be trying to cut out the “extras” in order to pare down your budget. Maybe you don’t view it as a necessary part of the planning process. Other times, it’s a matter of being uncomfortable in front of the camera. But with this trend rising, many photographers have opted to add this into their wedding packages for free! Engagement sessions are the best opportunity for your photographer to get to know you before the day of the wedding. Plus, it allows time for you to get comfortable in front of the camera. After posing for one, you’ll find that your wedding day photography will go smoothly and much more comfortably.
y by Lee otograph
Relish Ph
Before your engagement session, some photographers will want to have a face-to-face meeting with the two of you. During that meeting, you’ll be able to ask questions as well as address any concerns you might have. Some of these may include: - Should I get my hair and makeup done by a professional? - What should we wear? Should we color coordinate? - What kind of props do you recommend? Any we shouldn’t bring? More than anything, your engagement session is a nice way to start getting excited about your wedding. It’ll all start to feel so real! Include the gorgeous pictures on your save-the-dates, wedding website, and of course on your social media! Get your friends and family excited for one of the biggest days of your life! Debra Shepperson is Co-Owner of Relish Photography by Lee, a full-service wedding and portrait photography company. To learn more about the Relish wedding collections and services, please visit www.relishphotosbylee.com.
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Relish Phot
ography by
Lee
rwbagleyphotography.com Â
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Reasons for a
First Look By Monica Mendoza There are so many decisions to be made while wedding planning, and we know the excitement at the moment your partner sees you for the very first time. The feelings, the reactions, and all the excitement and emotions that come with it! More and more couples are opting to go with a “First Look” before the ceremony and it might be something worth debating. Here are five reasons why a First Look is so worth it and why it should be considered!
It’s the only alone time during the wedding day. You’re spending the morning with best friends and family, everyone except your partner. You’re both surrounded by people all day long. Once the ceremony is finished, it’s immediately off for portraits with family, the bridal party, and finally your new spouse. Phew! Then to the reception to mingle and greet all the guests. It’s a long day full of joy and fun, and at the end of the very it, finally time to be alone together. A First Look offers that special time to take in the precious moment.
Grooms can express their emotions more freely. While some brides want “tradition,” what they all REALLY want is their grooms to have a priceless reaction to seeing them in their dress for the first time. When waiting until the ceremony, the groom is standing in front of 150+ guests, all looking at him to react. He might be nervous, and he might not want to cry in front of everyone. But during a First Look it’s just you and him. You’re the person who can calm him down the best to make the nerves disappear. He’s able to express his emotions much more freely and without restraint since it’s an intimate moment. He can cry and you can be embraced, kissed, and told exactly how gorgeous you look in that moment! And don’t worry brides, most grooms who cry during their First Look, cry again when they see you walking down the aisle!
MJ Mendoza Photography
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MORE portraits. Logistics wise, a First Look is AMAZING because the photographer gets to take care of all the pictures before the ceremony even starts! After the First Look, most photographers go right into the bride and groom portraits and then grab the bridal party for the fun! If families are already there, then those can be finished before the ceremony begins too. The majority are already knocked off before even saying, “I Do,” leaving more time to party or just relax.
Enjoy cocktail hour. You chose the details and appetizers and maybe even created signature drinks. Now that the hour after the ceremony isn’t spent cramming in all those portraits, there is time to enjoy one of those cocktails, eat some hors d’oeuvres and mingle.
The day is more relaxed. After the First Look, those nerves can fly out the window as there were a few moments spent with just each other. Your groom got to express how beautiful you look. There was crying and laughing together and now relaxation!
MJ Mendoza Photography
First Looks have gotten so popular and for good reason. Wedding days can be nerve-wracking but choosing to spend most of the day with your best friend and sharing a quiet moment will not be a choice regretted. Monica Mendoza is the owner and lead photographer at MJ Mendoza Photography. From her first wedding in 2015, Monica loves to capture and celebrate joyful & genuine couples in love with a bright and colorful photography style. You can reach her online at www.mjmendozaphotography.com
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Capture Your Beauty With
Bridal Portraits By Debra Shepperson
Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re traditional or not, most of you have dreamt of the perfect wedding gown since you were little. Many spend countless hours searching for that perfect one before saying yes to the dress. The wedding gown you choose may end up being one of the larger expenses. Capture that feeling of looking your best with a bridal portrait session! Relish Photography by Lee
Capturing lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most special experiences (804) 867-8553 www.jcameronphoto.com Jcameronphotos@gmail.com
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MJ Mendoza Photography
Here are a few reasons to make room for bridal portraits in the budget: Preserve your moment in time as a bride in a relaxed setting rather than trying to add one more activity to an already busy wedding day. Create an heirloom fine art portrait to have on display at the reception. Gift it to your parents or hang it at home to eventually share with future children! Enjoy extra time wearing your wedding gown and garter belt, while trying out favorite poses. Use this time to get comfortable carrying the bouquet, and getting photos taken with and without a veil.
To prepare for the session: Schedule a test run with your hair and makeup artist so there is an opportunity to consider different types of styles. Schedule a date with your future spouse post portrait session since your hair and makeup will already be flawless! Ask your florist to make a sample bouquet for the session versus a fullsize bouquet.
relishphotosbylee.com info@relishphotosbylee.com | (804) 569-5070
Have your engagement ring cleaned beforehand, for sparkly perfection.
Another benefit of a bridal portrait session is finding kinks that might need to be worked out before the big day. Things such as: Finding a few minor adjustments that need to be made to the wedding gown. Realizing the initial hairstyle isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to work. Maybe it was too hot with your hair down, or maybe the updo looked better. Planning for different undergarments that were more comfortable than the trial set. Discovering you need more comfortable shoes! Deciding whether or not to wear a veil. During the wedding planning process, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to make time for yourself, making sure not to get lost in the stress. Treat yourself to bridal portraits! More than just a gift to your fiancĂŠ or family, this will be a gift to yourself. 50 years from now, grandchildren will marvel at your beauty, and everyone will be happy a bridal portrait was done! Debra Shepperson is Co-Owner of Relish Photography by Lee, a full-service wedding and portrait photography company. To learn more about the Relish wedding collections and services, please visit www.relishphotosbylee.com.
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Why a
Videographer is a Must-Have By Syndal Haun
MJ Mendoza Photography
The wedding industry has about as many elements as the newest season of Stranger Things. That being said, there is a lot to take into consideration when searching for the perfect vendor to capture your wedding. While having a photographer may seem like enough, nothing quite lives up to being able to replay those precious moments years down the road. 158
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One of the biggest determining factors that come into play when deciding to hire a videographer:
Budget.
Like many integral wedding vendors, they can be expensive. However, videographers create a product that encapsulates one of the most important days in a coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life, which explains the cost. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too much of a stretch to hire a videographer, totally understandable. There is no shame in reliving the day through your Snap Chat video roll!
Sarah and Dave Photography
videography When it comes to documenting your special day, having a videographer is of utmost importance. Trust us, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing like reliving those precious moments you shared with your other half and the loved ones who were there to celebrate with you.
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However, if you can cover the expense, do it. Here’s why:
Hayes & Fis k Photograph y
Remembering Details (Particularly Toasts & First Dances) Being able to watch your video is like getting to experience your wedding as a guest. Videos capture the story of the couple through hilarious memories, sentimental words, and genuine emotion. The words from toasts and vows can always be preserved on paper but it doesn’t compare to seeing the delivery live. Watching your first dance or when Uncle Jim roasts the groom can be a special way to share an anniversary or make a typical Thursday night a little more romantic.
Accommodating Friends Near & Far Hiring a videographer is a great way to give those who were unable to attend a look into your wedding day. This is especially beneficial for couples who have a smaller guest count or a destination wedding where inviting everyone isn’t an option.
Hayes & Fis k Photograph y
Society has become obsessed with the resources and creativity that goes into putting on an amazing wedding. From finding the perfect dress to hotel accommodations, there are so many options to find the right vendor for your day. Research is key when looking for your videographer. Components like venue, guest count, and personal connection with the vendor are things to consider when reaching out. You want to make sure they are trustworthy and communicative, so they know what you are envisioning. With all of that checked off, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your day! Syndal Haun is an Event Coordinator at Celebrations at the Reservoir. For tours, pricing or more information on the property, please visit our website at www.celebrationsva.com or call our office line at (804) 739-9015.
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HANNAH & MICHAEL OCTOBER 12, 2019
GET THE MOST OUT OF
Your Wedding Video By Marissa McCormick and Faith Anderson
Having a videographer at your wedding has become a MUST, and for good reason! While your photographer will capture precious still moments, your videographer is the only vendor that will transport you right back to your big day. Gone are the days where you watch your video filmed by your uncle on a VHS player. Wedding videos nowadays are cinematic masterpieces that look more like movie trailers than what you’re probably used to. But without the right prior knowledge, your video might not turn out exactly like you’d like it to. We’re here to help!
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When considering your videographer, it’s important to remember why you wanted one in the first place... to capture and remember the biggest day of your life. Make Sure Your Personalities Match
Ask Around
When meeting with a potential videographer, it’s important to make sure you all click. Even more so than photography, it’s easy to freeze up in front of a video camera. By having a videographer that you connect with, it won’t feel so awkward. You and your sweetheart will feel like you’re with an old friend that happens to be filming you on the biggest day of your life!
Word of mouth is one of the best ways to find potential vendors. Did your best friend have an amazing video? Send her a Facebook message and ask how her experience was. Chances are it will be amazing, and you’ll have real-life evidence of the vendor’s quality!
Make Videography a Priority When looking at your initial wedding budget, be sure to include a videographer! Just like your photographer, your videographer should be one of the first things you lock down.
Do Your Research Look up wedding videos online to find a style that matches what you are thinking. Maybe you want something very cinematic with slow-motion shots, or maybe you’d rather have a film video, catering more towards the indie bride. Either way, there are thousands of wedding videos out there to help you narrow down your search. Plus, once you find your style, you’ll be able to accurately tell your videographer what kind of feel you’re going for.
Include them in Timeline Planning Just like photographers, videographers will need some shooting time during your big day. Be sure to include them in all your timeline discussions with your planner. And be sure to connect your videographer and photographer! Together they can put together a timeline to make sure each of them gets the shots they want without getting in each other’s way.
Let Them Do Their Magic With all your prior research, it’s easy to think that you know the best shots and what exactly you want out of your video. But remember, they are professionals for a reason! Be open and flexible with their requests, because at the end of the day you know that the end result will be amazing!
When considering your videographer, it’s important to remember why you wanted one in the first place...to capture and remember the biggest day of your life. Not only will you be able to relive some of the moments, but you’ll also be able to hear your vows, or see the way your groom looked at you as you walked down the aisle. 25 years from now you’ll cherish looking back on these memories and stepping back in time to that glorious day.
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Relish Photography by Lee
flowers Flowers are the finishing touch when it comes to your wedding. From the bouquet you carry down the aisle to the centerpieces that adorn each table, the foliage you choose can take your decor to the next level. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve gathered tips for choosing the best flowers for your wedding and the professionals to bring your ideas to life!
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Emily Bartell Photography
F3our Floral Splurges for your Wedding
By Kim Moody, CID
Flower budgets come in all sizes. Couples spend a few hundred, a few thousand, and many in the Richmond market are even spending more! Regardless of what you are comfortable with, we encourage to invest in as many splurges that can be mustered! These are the top four that floral professionals love to design, and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll leave your guests with a lasting impression!
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Sarah and Dave Photography
Emily Bartell Photography
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THE BOUQUET
The bouquet will be in all portraits, and it’ll be in your arms as you see the love of your life for the very first time walking down the aisle. Be resourceful and think of a creative way to use it during the reception so it gets some additional use!
MJ Mendoza Photography
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SWEETHEART OR HEAD TABLE
Collaborate with the florist to do something exciting at, on, or even over the sweetheart or head table. This is another highly photographed place. Why not add a showstopping floral piece? Placed appropriately, the head table or sweetheart table can be a frame for the dance floor or an attractive backdrop for your reception events.
J. Cameron Photography
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THE ALTAR/ARBOR/HUPPAH
The Altar/Arbor/Huppah or any architectural element that will “create a place” to get married. This is often another heavily photographed area. If strategic you can sometimes work with the florist or planner and figure out ways to repurpose the designs from this area for the reception!
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CENTERPIECES
Utilize a variety of centerpieces to add visual interest. Long gone are the days of all of them matching each other. If hosting a larger event and have over a dozen tables, consider 2-3 different iterations so your eye doesn’t get bored when viewing the space. Adding in different heights, groupings, and variety is really incredible to fill a room!
No matter what your floral budget is, by selecting a few splurge items the guests will be impressed without breaking the bank! Kim Moody is the Owner and Lead Wedding Planner at the award-winning Kim Moody Design™, a multi-planner design studio that offers floral design and wedding planning under the same roof. KMD was founded in 2004 and has been tailoring its services to brides ever since. KMD has two locations and two retail stores called “trend.” R I C HMO NDWE D D IN G S.C OM
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RICHMOND 5021 Huguenot Road 804.887.0171
BLACKSTONE 201 S. Main Street 434.292.5000
TM
Heather Chipps Photgraphy
Sean DeWitt Photography
Steven & Lily Photography
@KimMoodyDesign
Thoughtfully designed and artfully curated wedding florals.
Jessica Lapp Photography
Heather Michelle Photography
Heather Michelle Photography
e-mail hello@KimMoodyDesign.com for more information
804-379-2514 main 804-213-2320 mobile: call or text
pandorasposies.com
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Exquisiteâ&#x20AC;Ś
Katie Nesbitt Photography
Victoria F loral Floral Design by
at Flowerama
2801-A Hathaway Road Richmond, VA 23225
(804) 560-7700
www.floweramarichmond.com | victoriafloraldesigns@gmail.com
1272 Alverser Plaza Midlothian, VA 804-897-6100
www.flowersmakescents.biz
Kristine Pringle Photographers
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&5
music dance
The second best part of a wedding is the dance party that follows! We have a team of amazing DJs and musicians who know how to get everyone on the dance floor, yes EVERYONE! Get ready to bust a move!
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First Dance… First Chance…
! e v o L At
J. Cameron Photography
By Leila Fleischman
It’s the first dance. Your first appearance together in front of everyone you love. Picture it; swaying to the rhythm so comfortable in each other’s arms and all the guests watching in adoration. But how does one get to this point? Here are a few main thoughts to keep in mind. To start the process, think about how to tell your love story in general. Perhaps it is a song that might not be very romantic but is significant because a special moment was shared to that tune somewhere along the journey together. This could include the first time dancing together on a night out or the song that was playing when realizing you are in love. It might sound cheesy but it happens often in weddings! Something else to keep in mind is the fact that the first dance will leave a lasting impression on the guests about who you are as a couple. For example, if there is a song that causes both of you to cry, it might represent how strong the bond is with each other. Showing that emotional side to everyone will prove to be a very moving moment for the first dance and the whole night! On the other end of the spectrum, if it is an easy song to sway to and just really shows off your personality, this will send the message that you two are very easy going together and can handle anything with ease, grace, and fun!
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Lastly, if choosing between a song that played a significant part in the early relationship or one that better portrays you two as a couple, go with the sound that feels the most comfortable. Find something that can easily be danced to! And keep in mind, nobody expects some beautifully and perfectly choreographed dance. It’s about you and your future partner for life, sharing an intimate moment with the guests. No matter what is chosen, the guests will love it. After all, they’re there to celebrate you. So have fun with it! Leila Fleischman is a senior at VCU majoring in Public Relations. She is currently interning at The Renaissance and specializes in social media, marketing, and events. The Renaissance is an all-inclusive wedding, event, and banquet venue based in downtown Richmond’s exciting Arts District. To learn more about The Renaissance, please visit www.renaissanceva.com.
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Deciding Between a
Band & DJ By Matthew Davey
Perhaps one of the hardest decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding reception is choosing between a band and DJ. Many aspects go into your decision, atmosphere, cost, and range of services. So, let’s dive in.
Atmosphere. Kristine Pringle
Photographers
The entertainment you select for your reception will set the mood for the entire evening (or afternoon if you’re doing a brunch wedding!). One thing to think about is the fact that not all bands are the same, just as not all DJs are the same. Folks who lean towards bands typically think DJs are either boring or obnoxious, which isn’t always true. And folks who lean towards DJs think bands are limited in genre, which also isn’t always true. A party band can play a wide range of music and provide an exciting atmosphere. A fun DJ can also keep the party going without being obnoxious by talking too much but instead being interactive with leading the crowd. In both cases, you should expect a fun evening for your guests with either.
Cost.
The difference between good and great is almost always cost. A great wedding band typically charges between $7,500 and $10,000. Keep in mind, they have to divide that among the band members, the booking agent, etc. A great wedding DJ will charge between $1,500 and $3,000. Factored into the DJ’s costs are equipment, insurance, advertising, and value of services. There are cheaper bands and DJs, but if you’re looking for the best and most exciting environment, these are good ballpark figures to consider.
Range of services.
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This is where you need to ask questions to your band or DJ. Do they offer multiple setups outside of reception for cocktail hour and ceremony? Do they provide MC services on your wedding day and help direct the timeline of events? Do they take breaks? If yes, for how long? Do they take requests from guests or have a pre-crafted playlist? The answers to these questions should factor into your decision as well.
At the end of the day, you are going to make a selection that best fits you and your guests. Any great wedding band or DJ is ready to help you celebrate your love. Matthew Davey is the Owner, Director of Music + Ceremonies with Bow Tied Weddings, a Wedding Entertainment and Coordination service in Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. Follow them on social media @BowTiedWeddings and online at www.BowTiedWeddings.com.
Lyric String Quartet Let us frame your picture perfect event with the elegant sounds of the Lyric String Quartet. Weddings, Receptions, Cocktails & Dinners
Jacquelin Spears 804.233.1642 lyricstringquartet.org
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Start the Party with Your
First Dance By Ashley Kipps and Jumarcelon Castro
Since the turn of the 21st-century, weddings have evolved from the traditional church setting to getting married in a barn! We’ve traded our camcorders for smartphones, and we’ve (thankfully) swapped puffy shoulder dresses for extravagant and sleek gowns. So why should your first dance still be “traditional?” You spend so much time finding the perfect venue, the perfect wedding gown, and the perfect cake, but have you considered your first dance? It is just as important as all the above, and sometimes it can make or break the party. We have all been to those weddings where the newlyweds DID NOT prepare for their first dance. You don’t want to be that couple! Your guests want to see excitement, thrill, and you and your new spouse going out there and letting loose. This gets everyone excited and eager to PARTY!
This is where taking lessons will come in handy. Whether you want to recreate a scene from your favorite movies, like Cinderella or Dirty Dancing, or fix two left feet, having professional instruction ensures that your first dance dreams become a reality. Plus, lessons will not only help create a memorable first dance but will also teach lifelong skills that can be shared throughout your marriage together. Imagine every anniversary being able to go out and dance together to your favorite songs. Or being able to dance on a cruise, at a concert, at a friend’s wedding, or in the middle of cooking dinner on a Tuesday night. Lessons will help you and your partner do this confidently verses memorizing a routine eventually forgotten.
Now the question is should you choreograph a routine or learn how to social dance together?
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By giving the first dance some attention, you and your new spouse will be the life of the party during the reception. Have some peace of mind and leave your two left feet at the door! Together with a studio’s help, you’ll be able to dance the night away and impress some of your guests along the way. Sarah and Dave Photography
Is a choreographed first dance for me? If you are looking to replicate a scene from a film or wanting to have your dance hit every single high note of a song, then this is the route! Make sure the instructor has plenty of time to plan and prepare the perfect dance. Six to twelve months before the wedding is needed. If you do not give yourself at least six months you will be dealing with unnecessary pressure and tension working on something that was supposed to be a fun part of the planning process! If there is plenty of time to practice, then this will be EPIC and one that everyone will talk about for years and years to come!
What about social dance lessons? With social dance lessons, you don’t have to learn a complex routine. Rather, you’ll be investing time and energy into learning how to dance together. How bad can spending a few hours a week together, in each other’s arms, outside of work, not thinking about anything else really be? Pick some songs that mean a lot and let the professionals help you dance to each one. You can simply learn how to lead and follow, add a few simple turns and end with a nice dip.
Ashley Kipps and Jumarcelon Castro are both professional dancers and owners of the Arthur Murray Richmond Dance Center. Combined they have over 20 years of experience in working with couples and singles to make their dance dreams a reality! For more information visit www.ArthurMurrayRichmond.com or call (804) 200-5146. 178
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Taking social lessons will give a skill that can be taken through the rest of your marriage. Learn how to do fun dances like Swing for big band music or the smooth Fox Trot for other styles that will be played at the wedding.
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featured weddings
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*All information in our Featured Weddings section was provided by the couple.
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FEATURED WEDDING
TORI&5 AUSTIN January 12, 2019
RW VENDORS Photography: Kristine Pringle Photographers | Caterer/Rentals/Ceremony/Reception Site: The John Marshall Ballrooms | Ceremony Music/DJ/Lighting: Bow Tied Weddings, Matthew Davey | Gown Salon/Veil: Tiffanys Bridal, Eddy K | Accommodations: Hilton Richmond Downtown ADDITIONAL VENDORS Rehearsal Dinner: Green Leafs | Videography: MOD Edits | Officiant: Rob Voth | Shoes: DSW | Bridesmaid Dresses: Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridal, Vera Wang | Accessories: Kendra Scott | Hair: Elle Style Studio, Rachel | Makeup: Kara Waggoner Beauty | Formalwear: The Black Tux | Invitations: Vistaprint | Flowers: King William Florist | Favors: SipSipHoray, Etsy
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ori and Austin met while on vacation, it was Tori’s first day and Austin’s last. Austin saw a photo of Tori on a friend’s social media page and insisted that the two be set up. Eventually, he got her number, where they played 21 questions over text. The Sunday Tori returned to Richmond, Austin picked her up for their first date over pizza and beer. Tori says, “How could you go wrong?” Austin asked Tori to marry him on a Memorial Day celebration with all their besties. They decided to pose for a picture with Austin hopping on Tori’s back. But instead of jumping on Tori’s back, he got down on one knee. Tori turned around and, “screamed, smiled, and ugly cried!” The two chose The John Marshall Ballrooms for its character, beauty, and warmth since they were getting married in the middle of winter. They said their traditional vows to each other in front of 180 of their closest family and friends, alluding to how marriage is a lot like farming, (Austin’s occupation), you must take care of it for the relationship to grow. Inspired by her Pinterest boards, they wanted a classy but fun look for their January day. Tori’s girls were in a deep magenta with Austin’s guys in classic black tuxes. “We needed a pop of color in the dead of January!” Their flowers brought in that pop with white magentas and lots of greenery. With drinks flowing all night, Tori and Austin threw an unforgettable party. Austin even surprised Tori by singing her a song, shocking both Tori and the crowd. Their night ended in a dance party facilitated by their DJ, the perfect ending to their day. Wedding Budget: $29,000 Guest Count: 180
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FEATURED WEDDING
LAUREN &5ZACH March 2, 2019
RW VENDORS Cakes/Sweets: Incredible Edibles Bakery
ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Kir Tuben Photography | Rehearsal Dinner: Lunch and Supper | Wedding Consultant: Lauren Martin, Pure Bliss | Ceremony Site/Ceremony Music: St. Bridget’s Catholic Church | Reception Site/Catering/Rentals: The Country Club of Virginia | Officiant: Deacon Bob Giovenco | Gown/Veil: Sealed with a Kiss, Paula Varsalona | Alterations: Claudia, Seams Alterations | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie | Hair Piece: BHLDN | Earrings: Olive + Piper | Hair: Derek Hedgepeth, Farmhouse Salon | Makeup: Kirsty Wingfield, Richmond Makeup Artist | Engagement Ring + Groom’s Band: Adolf Jewelers | Bride’s Band: Luster Jewelers | Formalwear: The Black Tux and Suit Supply | Invitations: Minted | Flowers: Flowers by Zoie | Lighting: Jimmy Oliver Events | Transportation: James Limousine and RVA Trolley | Accommodations: Graduate Richmond | Getting Ready Location: Quirk Hotel | Honeymoon: Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club | Band/Entertainment: The Band Punch, ECE 184
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auren and Zach met one night at Lauren’s old apartment in The Fan. Zach showed up with a mutual friend and immediately stood out, like love at first sight. They talked all night, eventually having their first date over pasta and wine. About four months into their relationship, Zach moved to Tampa, Florida, and the two called it quits because of the distance. But it wasn’t before long that they decided to give things another try. Lauren explains, “Over the year and a half of long-distance, we made so many memories in Florida!” So, it was a special surprise when Zach decided to propose to Lauren in Florida, making it feel even more like home. Zach proposed on the beach at sunset at a place called Honeymoon Island and, “it was the most surreal moment ever!” For their early spring Richmond wedding, the two desired simplistic elegance. “Our main focus was that we wanted ourselves, and everyone around us, to have a truly spectacular day. They added touches of Southern charm throughout for that timeless classy feel. Growing up in a Catholic Church, Lauren knew she needed a traditional ceremony. “One show-stopping, old-school element that we added was the bagpiper.” Originally, they were only going to have white and black as their colors, but Zach decided they needed a “pop” of color, so they added touches of lavender. Their wedding party looked slick in all black, adding those hints of color with their bouquets and boutonnières. Their reception continued their classic theme, and they even included Adirondack chairs as their cake topper, an ode to their Florida life. When it was all said and done, Lauren and Zach wanted to host a fantastic party. And with the help of their entertainment, they kept the party going all night long. Lauren’s advice to future couples? “Enjoy every minute of it! Even when it seems stressful and overwhelming, know that you are planning one of the most memorable nights of your life!”
Wedding Budget: $40,000 Guest Count: 160
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FEATURED WEDDING
MEREDITH &5 BOBBY March 23, 2019
RW VENDORS Wedding Consultant/Flowers/Rentals: Kim Moody Design | Reception Site: The John Marshall Ballrooms | Rehearsal Dinner: The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing | Jeweler: Diamonds Direct | Lighting: The Lighting Professors | DJ: Bunn DJ Company, Frank Guertler | Shower Location: The Hard Shell Downtown ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Nicole Adele Photography | Addâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Shower Location: Edith Boiling Wilson Hotel | Videography: eMotion Pictures Wedding Films | Ceremony Site: Trinity United Methodist Church | Officiant: Pastor Drew Wilson | Ceremony Music: Charles Staples, Todd Beyer, William Kidd | Gown/Veil: Sealed With a Kiss, Randy Fenoli | Alterations: Doris Daugherty | Shoes: DSW | Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie | Accessories: Nordstrom | Hair/Makeup: Nicole Laughlin Makeup Artist & Co., Elizabeth Coker and Nicole Laughlin | Formalwear: Jos. A Bank | Stationery: Xpress Copy and Graphics | Calligraphy: Nancy Bean and Ellen McDaniel | Cake: Pudgy Cakes and Treats | Transportation: RVA Trolley | Honeymoon: Sandals 186
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obby and Meredith met during their time at Virginia Tech. Meredith was getting ready to start her sophomore year when one of her apartment roommates backed out last-minute, leaving her scrambling to find a replacement. She and her roommates eventually found Tyler, a transfer student, who happened to bring Bobby along for the initial meeting. Meredith, Bobby, and Tyler ended up becoming great friends, but it wasn’t until after college that the two started dating. Eventually, their friendship turned into something so much more. Bobby popped the question to Meredith by sending her on a scavenger hunt through their favorite Richmond spots. From the VMFA to their favorite diner, the hunt eventually ended in Bobby’s backyard, decorated with lights and flowers. Meredith recalls, “After he popped the question, he took me inside where all of our friends and family were waiting for a surprise party!” Meredith still doesn’t know how they all kept it from her so well. When planning their March wedding, they knew they wanted somewhere with that Richmond feel. With an ideal indoor location taking out any factors of poor weather, The John Marshall Ballrooms fit the bill. At their semi-traditional ceremony, they recited their vows, but also as a unity symbol combined different colored glass. It was eventually made into a vase, the perfect reminder for their day. For décor, they incorporated fresh eucalyptus and lavender. Their florist, Kim Moody Design, made sure it harmonized with their ballroom reception. Various shades of purple were weaved throughout, the perfect pop of color. The two wanted their wedding to feel personalized. “From having scratch-off lottery tickets as favors to pictures of our cats in the lobby, we wanted signature touches everywhere!” Frank with Bunn DJ Company kept their party going, delivering perfect music to a packed dance floor all night long. Wedding Budget: $40,000-$50,000 Guest Count: 210
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FEATURED WEDDING
SUZANNE &5 ERIC April 27, 2019
RW VENDORS Rehearsal Dinner: The Savory Grain | Wedding Consultant/Ceremony/Reception Site/DJ: Historic Mankin Mansion | Caterer: MOSAIC Catering + Events | Rentals: Classic Party Rentals of Virginia | Accommodations/Transportation: The Jefferson Hotel ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Kathryn Ivy Photography | Shower Location: Casa Del Barco | Officiant: Joel Gregori | Gown/Veil: White on Daniel Island, Jodi Moylan | Alterations: Alterations by Nadya & Nordstrom | Shoes: Stuart Weitzman | Bridesmaid Dresses: Lulu’s and Nordstrom | Hair: Ashley Sanchez | Makeup: Nicole Laughlin | Jewelry: Lustre by Adolf Jewelers | Formalwear: Jos. A. Bank | Invitations: Blush Paperie | Flowers: Black Creek Flowers | Cake: Sweet Fix | Band: The Escorts | Dance Instruction: Rigby’s Jig Dance Studio | Favors: Momentos Events | Add’l Accommodations: The Hilton Garden Inn Richmond Airport
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uzanne and Eric went to the same high school together, but it wasn’t until a few years after graduation that they met through mutual friends. Suzanne says, “I always thought he was really cute, but could never find an opportunity to really talk.” One night, when they were both out to a bar for a friend’s birthday, she went for it. And the rest is history. Eric popped the question five years later on Christmas morning. He had just gotten home from his overnight shift, and the two decided to have an intimate Christmas together before going to see their families. He asked Suzanne to marry him, with the help of their dog Georgia, and she said yes. Both wanted to have an outdoor ceremony, but also wanted a venue with a backup plan. Immediately when they toured Historic Mankin Mansion they knew it was fate, plus it was dog-friendly! They initially wanted their colors to be bright and cheerful, without it being too overdone. When trying to think of a theme that incorporated bright colors, the southern tradition of the pineapple came to mind, “We both loved how it represents warmth and hospitality, so we used that as a starting point for inspiration.” Having delicious food was important to both Suzanne and Eric, and their gorgeous spread by MOSAIC fit the bill. While each has countless favorite parts of the day, for Suzanne it was having their dog as their flower girl. “Having her there relieved so much tension and pressure during the ceremony.” Their night ended in a dance party as the sun set on their April night. With pineapples all around, and everyone appreciating the Southern hospitality, the two became one. Wedding Budget: $30,000-$40,000 Guest Count: 125
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FEATURED WEDDING
BIANCA PAUL&5 May 25, 2019
RW VENDORS Rehearsal Dinner: Bistro 27 | Reception Site/Coordinator/Caterer/Rentals/Cake: The Jefferson Hotel | Gown: Tiffanys Bridal | Flowers: Vogue Flowers | Accommodations: Linden Row Inn ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Ashley Peterson Photography | Shower Location: St. Francis De Sales Hall | Videography: Toast Wedding Films | Ceremony Site: Cathedral of the Sacred Heart | Officiant: Monsignor Patrick Golden | Ceremony Music: Ian Richardon, Daniel Sanez, Schuyler Slack | Veil: Cassandra Silvestro | Shoes: Brinley | Alterations: Alice Miles | Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal, Lulu’s, Birdy Grey | Accessories/Jeweler: Bloomingdales | Hair: Sara Brown Salon | Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse | Stationery: Zazzle, Victoria’s Watercolors, Minted | Calligraphy: Cyndie Bryant | Lighting/DJ: Music, Music, and More Music, Christian Lane | Favors: Totally Promotional | Transportation: RVA Trolley
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aul and Bianca met while Paul was stationed in Norfolk, through their church. They had their first date at Maymont, then drank smoothies outside of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart before Mass, where they would later be married. They spent the afternoon laughing and bonding over cheesy jokes. Bianca explains, “I wanted the date to go on forever.” Bianca and Paul were engaged in Sandbridge, VA after a trip to Savannah, and right before Paul was on his way to deployment. Since they only had cell phone pictures with each other, they wanted to have professional photos taken, “I wanted something I could look at for the next eight months!” As they were changing into their second outfits, Paul suggested Bianca take some solo pictures on the beach. “I looked up at the top of the beach to see Paul with a full smile making his way to me.” Paul popped the question and Bianca said yes. On their wedding day, the ceremony at the spot of their first date was beautiful. With ceremony musicians on the balcony above, they said their “I do’s,” Bianca looking flawless and Paul looking crisp in his dress whites. “We chose The Jefferson Hotel because of its historical significance to the city,” not to mention the beauty of the venue. Instead of bringing in a ton of themed elements, Bianca and Paul wanted the venue to shine. “I knew that I wanted everything, clean, classic, and timeless.” While they never chose official colors, they knew they wanted crisp white flowers with greenery heavy throughout the room. They incorporated flowering dogwoods, the state flower for Virginia and North Carolina, their respective home states. These two entered the reception down the grand staircase in The Jefferson Hotel as their closest family and friends cheered. After a delicious dinner and equally gorgeous cake, they danced the night away, ending the night with a glow stick exit to the elevator, their favorite part of the day.” Bianca’s advice to engaged couples, “eat your dinner, dance, drink champagne, and kiss your new husband a lot!” Wedding Budget: $50,000-$60,000 Guest Count: 150
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FEATURED WEDDING
GRACE MATT &5 August 17, 2019
RW VENDORS Photography: Paige Stevens Photography | Rehearsal Dinner: West Coast Provisions | Caterer: Cater2Events | Gown: Annalise Bridal, Anne Barge | Rentals/Lighting: Rent-E-Quip | Transportation: Richmond Limousine ADDITIONAL VENDORS Wedding Consultant: LK Events and Design | Ceremony Site: University of Richmond Cannon Memorial Chapel | Reception Site: The Kanawha Club | Officiant: Deacon Tom Mullen | Ceremony Music: Joe Lenich, Laura Stapleton, Tim MacLeod | Alterations: Fariba’s Bridal Alterations | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bridesmaid Dresses: Lulu’s | Accessories: Dana Rebecca, RoseyRoseStudio | Hair/Makeup: Avenue 42, Heather and Kara | Engagement Ring: True Gem Co. | Bride’s Band: Fink’s Jewelers | Groom’s Band: Schwarzschild Jewelers | Stationery: Ian Frye and Biba Letterpress | Flowers: Petals and Twigs | Cake: Sweet Fix | Add’l Transportation: James River Transportation, James Limousine | Add’l Accommodations: Hyatt Short Pump | Accommodations: Hilton Richmond Hotel and Spa at Short Pump | Band: ECE, The Klaxton Brown Band 192
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or Grace and Matt, it all started during their time at JMU in 2010. Grace, who was a freshman while Matt was a junior, remembers Matt from a pre-med club meeting. She immediately was impressed by his experience and accomplishments, not to mention she thought he was cute. But it wasn’t until 2016 that their paths crossed again on a dating app called Bumble. Although Matt didn’t immediately remember Grace from that JMU meeting, he was immediately smitten with her. And after their first date, which turned into hours of talking about everything from medicine to golf to country music, these two knew they found something special. It was important for Matt to propose to Grace in a meaningful place. And Grace’s family vacation spot at Figure Eight Island in North Carolina seemed like the perfect one. Under the guise of celebrating Grace’s little sister’s birthday, Matt proposed in front of her entire family. After she said yes, they went back to the house for caviar and champagne. The perfect day. They knew they wanted to get married in a church setting and found their ideal spot at the University of Richmond. With both her mother and father walking her down the aisle, the two said their vows to each other...and without shedding a tear! One of Grace’s proudest and favorite moments of the weekend. Their design theme for the wedding was based roughly on “The Sound of Music,” Grace’s favorite movie. Grace explains, “The wedding scene from that movie always took my breath away...I wanted green garland and white satin everywhere!” Décor was primarily green, giving a fresh, romantic, reverential, and happy look. The joyous couple swayed to their first dance, “You Are The Best Thing,” Matt’s favorite part of the day. And as their August wedding came to a close, they celebrated with 125 of their closest family and friends, an unforgettable summer night.
Wedding Budget: $40,000-$45,000 Guest Count: 125
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FEATURED WEDDING
KATIE&5 CHRIS September 14, 2019
RW VENDORS Rehearsal Dinner: Hanover Tavern | Wedding Consultant/Ceremony/Reception Site: The Manor House at Kings Charter | Rentals: The Prop Shop ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Aniko Levai Photography | Shower Location: The Waterfront, Wyandotte, Michigan | Videography: Reagan Studios | Caterer Sam Edwards Catering | Officiant: Jeremiah Dillon | DJ/Lighting: DJ Don Juan | Gown: Bridal Elegance, Allure Bridals | Alterations: AG Alterations | Shoes: Blue by Betsey Johnson | Bridesmaid Dresses: Etsy | Accessories: Olive + Piper | Hair: FBJ Weddings, Amber | Jeweler: James Allen | Groom’s Formalwear: Ted Baker, Nordstrom | Groomsmen’s Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse | Stationery: Zazzle | Flowers: Black Creek Flowers | Sweets: Shyndigz | Accommodations: Hampton Inn & Suites Richmond/Virginia Center | Honeymoon: Breathless Punta Cana | Embroidered Handkerchiefs: MisterandMrs, Etsy 194
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atie and Chris’ story starts when Katie moved to Richmond in 2013 to take a job as the weekend meteorologist on 8News. With her unique hours, waking up at 2 am and going to bed by 8 pm, she knew it would be hard to meet someone, so she took the plunge into online dating. Eventually, she found Chis through Bumble and decided on an early dinner date since she had to be in bed by 8! Sparks flew immediately. Katie explains, “They say, ‘when you know you know’ and I never knew what that meant until I met Chris.” Chris surprised Katie by proposing to her while they were on a trip to Florida in 2018. Chris took Katie to a piano bar where he surprised her by playing Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect” on the piano. “He is the king of grand gestures, so he took lessons for weeks and learned enough to play.” He popped the question shortly after, and they left Florida as fiancés. When considering their September wedding, these two knew they wanted their ceremony and reception at the same location and fell in love with The Manor House at Kings Charter and its quaint charm. Their original plan was to do custom vows during the ceremony, but they knew they would be a mess of tears. “We ended up writing vows to each other and read them separately right before the wedding.” Pinterest inspired their loose theme of romantic fall elegance. With burgundy, blush, cream, gold, and greenery as their colors, they captured Virginia’s seasonal beauty. With most of Katie’s family and friends being from Michigan, they wanted to bring in Southern food choices, showcasing the cuisine this area has to offer. Scrumptious Old Bay shrimp was followed by pulled pork sliders and stuffed portobello mushrooms. They danced to all their favorite songs and ate bites from their cake bar as their night came to a close. Katie’s tips for people getting married? “Do your homework, go with your gut, and look for your vendor’s work on Instagram!” Wedding Budget: $20,000-$25,000 Guest Count: 100
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Paige Stevens Photography
”
We asked our Featured Couples to tell us their best piece of advice for those tying the knot in the future:
“Make a list, set a budget, delegate, and try to work as a team!” ~Grace
“It’s one heck of a good time! Enjoy the ride!” ~Tori “Try not to stress over the small details in wedding planning. The most important thing is your relationship with your soon-to-be-spouse! The day will be perfect because you get to marry your best friend!” ~Meredith
“Trust that everything you have picked, from the venue to the flowers to the dress, is your favorite and it will all be beautiful no matter what.” ~Bianca Ashley Peteron Photography
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“Don’t only enjoy the planning process, but enjoy being engaged! Enjoy using the word fiancé! It is such a fun and an exciting time that you will look back on fondly…even the midnight ‘planning meetings’ at the kitchen table! Those are some of your first memories that you are making as a family!” ~Lauren “Do your homework, go with your gut, and look for your vendor’s work on Instagram!” ~Katie “Breathe and ignore trends on social media…Make a list of what’s really important to you both and rank the items. There are so many important questions to ask each other before planning begins!” ~Suzanne
Kristine Pringle Photographers
invitations Invitations are a sneak peek into your wedding, so be sure to make a great impression! This is a great opportunity to incorporate your colors and theme so your guests can have an idea of what your big day will be like. This section is full of inspiration and tips to create beautiful invitations your guests will want to keep forever!
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Navigating
J. Cameron Photography
FORMAL INVITATIONS LINGO
You’re eight weeks out from your big day, and it’s finally time to send out your formal invitations. Unlike your more casual Save the Dates, etiquette comes into play when considering this official invite. But, most of us aren’t experts in the precise wording that makes your wedding sound like the event of the season.
You are cordially invited to celebrate the marriage of
Mr. & Mrs. Ramirez and Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Request the honor of your company at the marriage of their children
Hailey Nicole Dukoff and Harrison David McDonald
Amelia Grace Ramirez & Jacob Patrick Stanley
Have no fear, we’re here for you! While most invitation vendors can help you find the perfect verbiage, it’s helpful to know how to phrase your final impression of your big day for your guests.
123 Main Street Richmond, Virginia
By Marissa McCormick
In every situation and every family dynamic, there’s a correct way to introduce you and your spouse and invite guests to your wedding. Here are a few examples to help you navigate:
BRIDE + GROOM HOSTING
Saturday, the tenth of October two thousand and twenty at twelve o’clock in the afternoon
Dinner and Drinks to Follow!
BRIDE’S OR GROOM’S PARENTS HOSTING Mr. & Mrs. Lowery request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their [daughter or son] Emily Tara Lowery to Terrance Michael Miller [or vice versa]
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COUPLE’S PARENTS HOSTING
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HONORING ANY DECEASED PARENTS Mr. & Mrs. John Hamilton and The late Mr. Tom Shoults and Mrs. Nancy Shoults request the honor of your company at the marriage of their children Corinne Hamilton & Michael Shoults
INVOLVING STEPPARENTS Mr. & Mrs. Rodriguez, Mr. & Mrs. Dove, Mr. & Mrs. Lee and Mr. & Mrs. Albertson Request the honor of your presence at the marriage of Stephanie Rodriguez & Fiona Lee
Reception Only Invite Maybe you’re having an intimate ceremony with only family and close friends invited. Here’s how to invite guests to the after-party: J. Cameron Photography
PARENT’S HOSTING Mr. and Mrs. George Atkins Request the pleasure of your company at the wedding reception following the marriage of their daughter Bianca Atkins to Jonathan Frederick
BRIDE + GROOM HOST Bianca Atkins and Jonathan Frederick will be married at a private ceremony on May 16, 2020 Please join us at our reception following!
Some other tips: • If your reception is at a different location, be sure to include that on the first page of your invite! • It’s not a bad idea to include your wedding website (if you have one) on your formal invitation. On your website, you’ll be able to give exact directions to your guests, as well as provide pictures so guests know what to look for. • If you are having a dress code, it’s important to include that on the front of your invite. You don’t want
a guest to come in casual attire if you’re hosting a black-tie event! • Be sure to order an extra stationery set to bring to your wedding day. That way your photographer can get those gorgeous invitation suite shots! • Don’t forget to factor in stamp costs. Your invitation might require more than one or a higher price point stamp.
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IV Hydration:
The Best Kept Wedding Secret By Aja Pressley
Planning a wedding can be hectic. Before tying the knot there are plenty of things to do, from finding the perfect dress to nailing down the guest lists, to getting hair and makeup done the day of. As the old saying goes, the devil is in the details, and one that is often overlooked when planning a wedding is health. But before you get too worried about how you’ll feel on your big day, there’s a health and wellness boost you probably didn’t know about. An emerging trend in this realm is IV therapy, your secret weapon for packing extra hydration and vitamins through the busy woes of wedding planning. Intravenous therapy, better known as IV therapy, is about bringing people to their optimal level of hydration and providing vitamins to ensure that you’ll look and feel your best. There are a variety of IV bags for any ailment you can imagine, from dull skin to wicked hangovers. For example, some contain an antioxidant called glutathione, a vital one that helps you appear more youthful and glowy with continuous use. Glutathione also aids in liver function and detoxification, which is super helpful in case the pre-wedding partying gets the best of anyone in your wedding crew. (No shame! It happens!) Many IV bags include vitamin C which is great for the skin as it promotes collagen and helps to reduce wrinkles with continuous use. IV hydration also helps boost your energy because most bags are packed with B vitamins so that you can have all the fuel you need to keep you running all day AND night!
Feeling good starts from the inside and works its way out. For a day as grand as a wedding, feeling your best is one step that will ensure that everything runs smoothly. That being said, it may be hard to keep track of whether or not you are getting what you need regarding nutrition and hydration. IV hydration therapy keeps the guesswork out of the equation while also serving as the boost you need for your skin and the energy to help you continue to be your best self. Quench IV Bar is dedicated to bringing you to be your best self through IV hydration therapy. Quench IV Bar is located at 2008 Bremo Rd, Richmond, VA 23226 and can be reached at (804) 493-4060 or book an appointment online at quenchivbar.com.
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Emily Bartell Photography
&5
beauty health
Your wedding is the day you deserve to be treated like a queen. Not only should you be pampered, but having your hair and makeup professionally done ensures your look will be flawless all day longâ&#x20AC;Ś even through all of the happy tears!
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MJ Mendoza Photography
Skincare is
Self-Care
By Audrey Chumbris
Starting a gentle skincare routine is a great way to prep your face for your big day. There are so many details to organize as an engaged person, but taking five extra minutes of self-care every morning and night will help you put your best face forward! Here are a few tips to get you started.*
1.
Cleansing. Use a gentle cleanser like micellar water or an oil-based foaming cleanser if your skin is dry. Makeup wipes are a good start, but you should always follow a makeup wipe with a gentle cleanser to ensure you remove all the dirt, oil, and free radicals on your skin.
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2.
Exfoliation is key to smooth skin. Using a sonic skin cleanser daily will not only gently exfoliate but will also help stimulate collagen. Sonic cleansers offer different attachments to clean all skin types and will help prepare your skin to soak up your serum and moisturizer.
3.
Toning, why is it important? Not only does toner help remove any lasting oil on your face but a good toner will bring your skin pH back to 5.5, effectively bringing it back into balance. This balanced pH will help regulate oil production and prevent over-drying. Additionally, a toner will help reduce the size of your pores and will feel refreshing and revitalizing during your skincare routine.
4.
To serum or not to serum. Serums are a fine tuner; they help address a particular issue anywhere from overactive oil glands to fine lines. They penetrate deeper into the skin, adding moisture and delivering their target active ingredient. Serums can also improve the texture of your skin depending on the formulation. Finding the right one can take a little time, so be sure to start early. Serums are best used after toner and before a moisturizer.
5.
Moisturizer, lotion, gel or cream? Which is the right type for your skin and what are the differences between them?
a. Moisturizers not only bring hydration to your skin but also work under makeup to help set foundation into skin properly. b. Lotion has a lower percentage of oil to water than creams. Lotions tend to be better for oily skin, can have a slight drying effect, and are good for daytime wear. For skin that tends to perspire more in the summer using a lotion can be a good solution.
translucent powder to complete the finish and contains 18-23% pigment. Most liquid creams and airbrush foundations fall into this category. It is also sealed with a finishing spray for long wear. These can also contain moisturizers, sunscreens, and anti-aging ingredients.
4.
Full coverage is for very opaque skin. It is generally used to cover scars, discoloration, hyperpigmentation, birthmarks, and some skin conditions like vitiligo. Full coverage is also sometimes called corrective or camouflage. Most of these foundations contain up to 35% pigment, but some professional grades can have up to 50% pigment. This also comes in liquid, cream, and airbrush formulas and must be set with a translucent powder. Like the medium coverage, these can also contain other ingredients like sunscreen, moisturizers and antiaging products.
c. Gel is a water-based moisturizer and lighter than a cream. Generally, they include humectant ingredients that capture water molecules in the epidermis such as Hyaluronic acid. This is why gels donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a greasy feel to the finish. Gels are good for most skin types, work well for daytime and nighttime, and are not too heavy for summer. Currently, many retail and dermatological grade brands now offer a gel with targeted ingredients for any specific concerns you might have.
After proper skin cleansing and preparation, your face is ready to wear foundation. But what kind of coverage do you need? Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk about foundation education! Here is a breakdown of the four most common levels of foundation coverage.
1.
Sheer foundation is the most translucent and transparent. It contains the least amount of skin tone pigment and doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t contain more than 8-13% of it in the formula. Good for a natural everyday look, and as an added plus, many contain sunscreen.
2.
Light coverage provides help for some unevenness in the skin tone, but will not cover freckles. The pigment is normally 13-18% of the formula. Many BB and CC creams fall into this category. With the advancements in foundation in the last 10 years, some high definition makeups are in this category.
3.
Medium coverage will appeal to most brides on their wedding day. It will cover freckles, redness from some acne, and unevenness. This foundation is set with a
Sarah and Dave Photography
d. Cream is the most emulsive, substantial feeling facial moisturizer. Creams have a higher oil to water ratio within the formula. They tend to be better suited to drier skin types and are very hydrating and softening. The thick formula can be beneficial in winter to help stay away from seasonal dryness. Many creams have additional properties for specific skin concerns like dryness, fine lines, and uneven texture.
Focusing on your skincare will help you put your best face forward on your wedding day and all the days to come. Taking time daily for self-care will not only improve your skin, but it can also help you destress before your big day! Audrey is a licensed cosmetologist and makeup artist in VA and DC and has been working in the wedding industry since 2012. She currently travels nationally providing on-location bridal and tv/movie hair and makeup services. She is the Owner/Operator of Lulubea Beauty in Richmond, Virginia. *Always consult a dermatologist if questions arise when making decisions about skincare routines.
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Be beautiful. Be yourself. LULUBEA BEAUTY
Elise Inc Photography
Hannah Louise Photography
Emily Condrey Photography
HAIR & MAK EUP
(804)338-8729 | lulubeabeauty.com 204
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candicehardymua.com |
@candicethemua
Making you feel beautiful inside and out on your wedding day. Professional and customized makeup services for brides and bridal parties.
skyler wyatt photography
Taylored Grace Photography
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&
Spray Tans Your Wedding Day: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
By Michelle Walters Thinking about getting a spray tan? If so, how should you plan your makeup? There’s nothing like that sunkissed glow on the day of the wedding. Together with your beauty team, you can put together a look that is NATURAL and totally you. So, you have a special occasion (engagement photos, bachelorette party or wedding) coming up and are feeling a teensy bit pale. You wish you could have a nice glow without having to overdo it on the bronzer. What better way than to get a spray tan?
Here are a few secret benefits of a spray tan under your makeup: • Makes eyes and teeth appear brighter. • Smooths skin tone allowing the makeup artist to pick the right foundation. • Helps skin to look more youthful. • The skin will appear softer and smoother and the color difference between neck and face will be easier to blend. All of this leads to looking your best in the photos! With a tanner complexion than usual, the makeup strategy might need to change. Here are some tips for makeup with a spray tan. • Make sure the foundation matches your new tanned self. You don’t want to get a tan and then use the super pale foundation that was used on your previous face. Invest in a color-matched foundation that perfectly goes with the new skin tone. • It is important to remember when you have a spray tan to wear a bit more color on the lips and stay away from the nudes. This is important for photos as you do not want your lips to fade into your skin color. Also, a pop of lip color will make teeth appear even whiter.
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Under the special occasion makeup, the tan will make you feel so much better giving that extra oomph of confidence. Bonus points for white teeth, bright eyes, and smooth skin...and perfect pictures! When Should I Get My Spray Tan? If getting a spray tan for your wedding, schedule it two days before the makeup trial so that your makeup artist can match the foundation and have a completed look that you are confident with. This also allows you to feel comfortable with the whole spray tan process, and you can practice the sunless tanning rules. Getting the tan two days before the makeup application allows the color to settle into the skin, and it will make the day-of-makeup go even smoother having the correct foundation already chosen.
Skincare and Your Spray Tan How you take care of your skin will have a direct impact on how the spray tan looks. Your skincare can make it or break, especially on your face! Make sure to listen to the instructions given by the spray tan artist. Do not use any skincare products with any kind of salicylic acid, hydrogen peroxide, or alpha hydroxy acids as these ingredients can cause the tan to fade prematurely or become uneven. You should, however, use
mild gentle washes with NO exfoliators. Salons usually recommend natural, sulfate-free body/bath washes as well as an argan oil body butter that usually smells amazing! Having a spray tan from an experienced artist followed up with professionally applied makeup is going to make the difference in wedding photos! Investing in wedding beauty is going to show. You are the star of the day and should get to feel like it. Be sure to research all of the other spray tan rules when getting yours. Under the special occasion makeup, the tan will make you feel so much better giving that extra oomph of confidence. Bonus points for white teeth, bright eyes, and smooth skin...and perfect pictures! Island Glow Sunless Studio, Salon and Beauty Bar offers on-location hair and makeup services as well as full beauty services in our salons. Our professional team of talented artists/stylists have been published in several magazines and blogs showcasing our brides. We offer all-inclusive bridal packages as well as an "a la carte" option. Contact us at www.islandglowva.com for more information and availability.
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Oh-So
Sweet Treats By Faith Anderson
What’s the first thing that pops into your head when you think of a wedding dessert? Cake! It’s tasty and traditional, but lately, couples have started to break barriers and opt for additional sweet treats on their special day. There are loads of options for what you can serve as dessert along with your traditional cake. Let’s get into it!
1. Donuts
Everyone has seen the trendy photos of elaborate donut walls at weddings, and they’re SO fun! Whether you decide to go with a wall or just a simple spread to display, your guests will love them. They’re easy to grab with one hand and don’t tie your guests down to a table. They can munch on their donut and boogie all at the same time!
2. Candy
Candy is an awesome way to knock out two birds with one stone. Not only can you serve it as a compliment to cake, but you can also consider it your wedding favor to each guest. Prepackaged gift bags filled with all of your favorite candies can be placed at each table setting for guests to take home later that night. Or a candy bar that your friends and family can eat for mid-dance snacks! Everyone is sure to find something they love.
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MJ Mendoza Photography
sweet treats Nowadays, cake isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the only dessert you can have at your wedding! Donuts, cookies, cupcakes, candy, and anything else you can imagine has become the norm. The sky is the limit with our group of bakers in this section!
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3. Cake Pops
Paige Stevens Photography
Cake pops are the modern twist on a traditional dessert! They are the perfect solution for those who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to give up cake entirely but want to spice things up a little bit. The best part about cake pops, you can customize them any way you want. Want to make them holiday-themed? Check! How about your wedding colors? Oh yeah! Just make sure you find a bakery that can accommodate all of your wishes and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re set.
BAKING TRADITIONS SINCE 1926 8540 Patterson Ave | Richmond VA 23229 | 804-288-2712
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4. Chocolate
Chocolate. Chocolate. Chocolate. There are so many different directions this tasty flavor can go in. One of the most unique ideas is to customize chocolate bars for your guests to enjoy. Consider designing a wrapper that has your wedding colors and date on the front. Not only does everyone get to enjoy a tasty treat, but you get to have fun designing a unique wrapper.
Westhampton Pastry Shop
5. Waffles
Breakfast food can be sweet, savory, or both! Why not let your guests decide. Consider having a waffle bar where people can top their treat with whatever they like. If they’ve got a sweet tooth they can go for toppings like crushed cookies, gummy worms, or maple syrup. Feeling savory? They can spoon chips, bacon, or ranch on top! The versatility of a waffle bar is sure to please.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to the sweet treats at your wedding. Straying from the norm can have some pretty awesome results, like that waffle bar mentioned above! There’s no limit to what you can serve, so get brainstorming!
Providing elegant and delicious cakes since 1952
Come visit our bakery! Walk in cake tastings 5728 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23226
Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm
804.282.4413 • westhamptonpastry@gmail.com
718 N. Cleveland Street, Richmond, VA | 804-729-7555
Custom gelato carts for any party or event!
Stellar Images
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THE WORLD’S LEADING FAMILY RESORTS
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ARE THE PERFECT PLACE TO BECOME A FAMILY
Tying the knot is more than saying vows – it’s about sharing once-in-a-lifetime moments with those closest to you. But if there’s a promise we’ll always keep, it’s to make your day the perfect beginning to family forever.
Book Today
When you book your destination wedding at Beaches® Resorts, you receive dedicated support from a Wedding Concierge, Wedding Event Manager and on-resort Wedding Event team to bring your dreams to life through a selection of 10 distinct
inspirations, offering over a million mix-and-match possibilities. We take care of all the planning so you can spend more time relaxing in paradise. There’s no better place to become a family than here, the World’s Leading Family Resorts.
2019
geri@accent-on-travel.net 1125 Gaskins Rd. Suite 600 Richmond, VA 23238 Beaches® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Beaches Resorts. 6093/1019
2019
honeymoons Once your wedding has come to an end, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to focus on you and your other half. Your honeymoon is the perfect opportunity to travel somewhere youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never been. Luckily, our experienced travel agents will take care of the stressful bits of planning, so all you have to do is RELAX! RW Tip: Be sure to check the expiration date on your passport!
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Honeymoon Timeline By Kim Goldstein Wedding planning can be fun, but it also can be stressful at times. However, the honeymoon is the only part of all the planning that is just for the wedding couple! It’s the beginning of your new life together, and in many cases, this is the first large scale trip that the two of you have planned together. It’s important to communicate expectations with your partner. Relying on internet research alone can lead to disappointments upon arrival at the resort, as the pictures aren’t necessarily indicative of what the place truly looks like. Using a professional travel consultant, who specializes in honeymoons, will help ensure that you’re selecting a resort that matches budget and expectations.
Here’s a sample honeymoon timeline to help stay on track for the trip of a lifetime!
10
months before
2 2
• Create a wish list of what’s important for the honeymoon.
• Determine the top three locations and decide if any places should not be on the list.
6
months before • Apply for a passport or renew it if it has expired. • Check to see if any visas or vaccinations are needed for the trip.
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• Exchange currency.
• Contact a professional travel consultant for guidance. Most don’t charge fees; it’s worth giving it a shot!
• Purchase travel insurance.
months before • Book any tours, spa or dinner reservations that can be made in advance.
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• Ensure you’ve received travel documents and review all the provided information. Put the passports with the travel documents.
• Scan a copy of the passports and email them to yourself and your travel consultant.
months before
• Book the hotel and airfare.
weeks before
• Double-check the seats on the airplane, and make sure your contact information is on the airline’s website in case they need to contact you for any last-minute schedule changes.
• Determine travel dates and request the time off work.
• Request a complimentary honeymoon quote from your travel consultant.
• Shop for any clothes needed for the honeymoon. • Make sure to have a good camera to capture all those special moments!
• Discuss the budget with your partner.
9
months before
• Pack baggage before you get too busy with the wedding!
1
day before • Check-in on the airline’s website and print boarding passes. • Ensure your passport, any medications, and valuables are in the carry-on bag.
With our tips, we’ll help you have the perfect honeymoon with your new spouse. Staying organized is key! And with a professional travel consultant’s help, all you’ll have to worry about is enjoying a drink by the beach! Kim Goldstein is a Top 25 Travel Agent as awarded by Travel Agent Magazine, a Certified Destination Wedding and Honeymoon Specialist, as well as a Wedding Wire Couples Choice Recipient and Richmond A-List Winner since 2014. To learn more about how she can help plan your dream honeymoon or destination wedding, please visit www.journeystravelinc.com.
HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE
Your dream honeymoon awaits at Sandals®, where you can enjoy your first memories of marriage in a paradise created for two people in love. Dine at up to 16 distinct 5-Star Global Gourmet™ restaurants per resort, embrace each other in private pools set over the
waves and drift away in suites designed with unparalleled luxury and romance in mind.
THERE’S NO BETTER PLACE TO START FOREVER.
BOOK YOUR HONEYMOON NOW! JOURNEYS INC. 804-288-0188 JOURNEYSTRAVELINC.COM
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The Biggest Honeymoon
Booking Mistake By Christine Hardenberger
Once you say the “I do’s” and the getaway car pulls away, we’re guessing you’re going to be ready to relax and get the post-nuptial vacation started. Hooray! Time to get the honeymoon started! You drive to the airport, step up to the check-in counter and hand your passport to the agent behind the desk. Her expression gets a little weird and then she says, “I’m sorry. The name on the passport is Jane Smith. We don’t have a reservation for Jane Smith.” “Oh, right! I just got married,” you gush, “My name was Jane Smith but now it’s Jane Jones. I booked the trip under Jones because I knew I’d be married by the time we traveled.” “I’m so sorry, ma’am, but I can’t allow you to board the plane. The passport says “Jane Smith” which does not match the name on the reservation. Would you like to purchase a new ticket under the correct name?” Yes, you read that correctly. The only way to correct this situation and save the honeymoon is to buy a new ticket with the same name that is on the passport which could cost hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars that you weren’t expecting to spend. This is the most common mistake that newlywed women who change their names make when booking their honeymoon. When booking an airline ticket, the name on the ticket MUST match the name on the passport or driver’s license (depending upon which is required) exactly. If it does not match, you will not be allowed to board, and the only way to travel will be to buy a new ticket. When planning the honeymoon, it’s critical to consider when so that you can book under the correct name. If taking the honeymoon less than six weeks after the wedding, book the trip under your maiden name since it’s unlikely there will be time to update your identification before traveling. If the trip is more than six weeks after the wedding, you can book using your married name if you are diligent about applying for new identification immediately after the wedding.
While it’s exciting to start this new chapter of your life with a new name, make sure you don’t sink the plans by booking the honeymoon under the wrong name! Christine Hardenberger is the owner of Modern Travel Professionals, a full-service travel agency. With over 12 years' experience planning destination weddings and honeymoons, Christine ensures that this once-in-a-lifetime trip is stress-free. Contact Christine at 804-453-TRIP (8747) or christine@moderntravelpros.com. Check out her website at www.travelprochristine.com.
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The Vacation Chic Amanda Roberts
We are travel advisors that specialize in helping busy, engaged couples plan dream honeymoons and destination weddings. We take care of every single detail so that you can rest easy knowing that it will be perfect.
thevacationchic.com
(804) 370-8294 amanda@thevacationchic.com
Destination honeymoons for every budget.
When the experience matters, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to call a Professional. CHRISTINE HARDENBERGER
804-833-8050 | christine@moderntravelpros.com www.palmtreesandrum.com
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?
Is an All-Inclusive Package
for You By Amanda Roberts
Planning a honeymoon is exciting and should be a fun process, but, there are so many different options. And for most couples this is your first big trip together, so trying to plan something that will be great for both of you can be a new experience. There are many different types of vacation options. Modern honeymoons can consist of everything from a highend all-inclusive resort, glamping in the Grand Canyon, cruises, individual custom vacation itineraries, and group escorted travel. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll want to choose the best option based on the types of activities and sites you want to do and see.
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It may help to narrow down options by location or type. Whether it be an all-inclusive vacation package or a custom non-all-inclusive itinerary. Cruises would fall into the all-inclusive category; however, the initial price can be misleading. They typically don’t include drink packages and excursions, which can add up over the length of the trip. But they can be a good option for travelers looking to see a lot of different destinations in a short amount of time because they stop at different ports. That being said, cruises won't allow couples to really dig in and experience the true culture of a destination if they are limited to the general vicinity of the port. There are both big and small ship itineraries. The small ones will obviously feel more intimate, and they allow passengers to easily navigate ports that some of the larger ships cannot.
All-inclusive An all-inclusive land itinerary has its pros and cons. This type of honeymoon package allows a couple to easily budget for the entire vacation. For these resorts, the price includes just about everything, meals, beverages, snacks, entertainment, and sometimes water sports. For the most part, there will be no additional expenses while on your honeymoon, except for spa treatments, excursions, and souvenir purchases. The fact that everything is included allows honeymooners to indulge without worrying about the price tag. The destinations that are best suited for these tend to be tropical and Caribbean. Specifically, Mexico, Dominican Republic, and Jamaica are the top three destinations for all-inclusive packages. Other Caribbean islands such as St. Lucia, Barbados, Antigua, Aruba, and the Bahamas also offer some great options too but usually at a little bit higher price tag. One downfall of this option is that people tend to stay at the resort. It is difficult to want to venture off the property if your meals and beverages are already paid for, and you would incur additional expenses by leaving the resort.
Traditional The second type of plan is more traditional in that passengers will pay for the hotel and airfare up front and then for meals and activities once at the destination. This is commonly referred to as “EP” or European Plan. These types of packages tend to be for places in the United States, Europe, Tahiti, Fiji, and other exotic locations. There are also some Caribbean destinations that better lend themselves to a European Plan. Hawaii is a great example of not wanting this type of package because the food is great and the culture and history are so rich that a lot of the experience would be missed if it was all-inclusive. There are actually none of these types of hotels in Hawaii! One major advantage that all-inclusive packages have over the custom itinerary is the ability to budget. When you depart for an all-inclusive vacation, you have basically paid for the entire trip upfront. The custom itineraries may seem less expensive initially than the alternative, but in reality, they are usually much more. When traveling to Europe, for example, the accommodations and airfare may be prepaid. However, most meals (except for breakfast that can be added), activities, transportation, and entertainment come at an expense to you and your partner. So, it’s hard to forecast exactly how much your trip will cost.
Because of the many different options and locations, planning a honeymoon can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! A travel agent can be a good resource in helping a couple to plan a stress-free honeymoon experience. Amanda Roberts, Owner of The Vacation Chic, is a certified Romance specialist. To learn more about how she can help plan a trip of a lifetime for you, please visit www.thevacationchic.com.
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Heather Hughes Photography
transportation If your wedding day is taking place at more than one venue, one of the best investments you can make is providing transportation for your guests! Not only will this keep your day on schedule, but it will also be a relief for your guests to not have to worry about parkingâ&#x20AC;Śor having too much fun at the dance party after!
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TRANSPORTATION LOGISTICS
There are so many logistics involved when traveling on your wedding day, especially if each event is in a different location! Leave the stress of getting from Point A to Point B to a professional! By hiring a licensed and insured transportation company, you can rest easy knowing your timeline will go off without a hitch. Also, remember to allow for enough time between each location, including potential traffic. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to be late to the altar! Here is a sample timeline to use:
TIMELINE OF EVENTS
assuming a 5:00 pm ceremony start*
3:00 pm Pick up the bride and bridesmaids. 4:00 pm Pick up the groom and groomsmen. 5:00 pm The ceremony begins. 5:30 pm The ceremony ends. The average wedding lasts 25-35 minutes. (Adjust timeline accordingly if you anticipate a longer ceremony.) 5:40 pm The guests are gone and the ceremony site is cleared. 5:55 pm Pictures begin. It usually takes about 15 minutes to collect the bride, groom and entire wedding party. 6:40 pm Pictures are completed. Time to head to the reception!* 7:00 pm Arrive at the reception. * If your ceremony site is at a different location than your reception, you will need to budget more time.
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calendar
2021 Jan 1 Jan 18 Feb 14 Feb 15 Mar 14 Mar 17 Apr 2 Apr 4 May 9 May 31
New Year's Day Martin Luther King Day Valentine's Day Presidents Day Daylight Saving (Start) St. Patrick's Day Good Friday Easter Sunday Mother's Day Memorial Day
2021
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2022 Jun 20 Jul 5 Sep 6 Oct 11 Oct 31 Nov 7 Nov 11 Nov 25 Dec 25 Dec 31
Father's Day Independence Day (observed) Labor Day Columbus Day Halloween Daylight Saving (End) Veterans' Day Thanksgiving Christmas Day New Year's Eve
Jan 1 Jan 17 Feb 14 Feb 21 Mar 13 Mar 17 Apr 15 Apr 17 May 8 May 30
New Year's Day Martin Luther King Day Valentine's Day Presidents Day Daylight Saving (Start) St. Patrick's Day Good Friday Easter Sunday Mother's Day Memorial Day
2022
Jun 19 Jul 4 Sep 5 Oct 10 Oct 31 Nov 6 Nov 11 Nov 24 Dec 25 Dec 31
Father's Day Independence Day Labor Day Columbus Day Halloween Daylight Saving (End) Veterans' Day Thanksgiving Christmas Day New Year's Eve
Natalie Schutt Photography
planning tools The key to planning a wedding is ORGANIZATION. To help you start and finish strong, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve created a countdown checklist to keep you on track! Everything is covered, from buying your dress to securing your marriage license, all in one place. This list is essential, so take as many notes on it as you like. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we made it! We also have downloadable versions of these helpful tools on our website, www. richmondweddings.com!
This section sponsored by The Estate at Independence, a full service, elegant venue with stunning views and gorgeous indoor and outdoor spaces for couples of any style.
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budget
The budget can be a stressful part of wedding planning. Let this worksheet help you navigate this difficult task.
ITEM
BUDGET
ACTUAL
The Estate at Independence offers many breathtaking spots for portraits, ceremonies and receptions including these.
NOTES
Wedding Coordinator Wedding Rings Wedding Attire Gown Headpiece Veil Accessories Alterations
Reception Site Rental Caterer/Food Beverages Decorations Gratuities
Entertainment Ceremony Music Band/DJ
Photography Engagement Bridal Portrait Wedding Day Album Extra Prints
Videography Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Apparel Stationery Invitations Reply Cards Thank You Notes Postage SUB TOTAL 1 RECEPTION SITE When choosing a venue, be clear on what is included in the rental fee such as chairs, tables, linens, etc. Plan on 50% of your budget going toward the reception because this will include your venue fee, food, beverage, rentals, etc.
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CATERER/FOOD/BEVERAGE Before you sign the contract, be sure to look at the food and beverage minimums. If you are looking to stay within a budget, limit the bar to beer and wine or add a little bit of personality with a signature beverage!
The Estate at Independence has lowered its rental fee to help ensure you have a fantastic meal at your reception!
DJ VS. BAND When making this decision, know the rules of the venue and the space available. A 5-piece band is going to need more space than a DJ!
Many places, like The Estate at Independence, welcome both.
Awesomesauce
Natalie Schutt Photography
ITEM
BUDGET
ACTUAL
NOTES
Formalwear Groom’s Tuxedo Father’s Tuxedo
Flowers Ceremony Site Bridal Bouquet Attendants Parents Grandparents Reception Site
Officiant Marriage License Accommodations Wedding Night Other
Attendants Gifts/Gift Boxes Transportation Rentals Ceremony Site Reception Site
Miscellaneous Item 1 Item 2 Item 3 Item 4 SUB TOTAL 2 GRAND TOTAL FLOWERS Some ceremony sites speak for themselves and don’t need an abundance of flowers. You can then focus your floral budget on the reception space and really WOW your guests.
GRATUITIES For your caterer or food service, gratuity is always added into your bottom line, but you do have other wonderful vendors on the day of that you can treat. Keep this in mind when thinking about your budget. Be sure to arrange envelopes with each vendor’s name on it so your planner can easily handle it on the wedding day.
ACCOMMODATIONS Venues will often work with nearby hotels who can offer room block pricing.
Other venues such as The Estate at Independence offer custom onsite lodging for the newlyweds or family and the bridal party.
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wedding countdown checklist 12-18 Months
Determine the style of wedding you want – formal, semi-formal or casual
Hire a hair and makeup artist or team
Reserve hotel room blocks for guests
Decide how many guests you will be inviting before getting your heart set on a venue. The Estate at Independence can accommodate 300!
Set up cake tastings
Determine the order of the ceremony events. The Estate at Independence’s in-house coordinator will help you through this.
Send out your Save the Date cards
Start scheduling visits to wedding venues
Interview & choose a wedding coordinator
Figure out your budget & discuss who will be helping with which expenses
Choose & book a ceremony venue if separate from your reception location
Choose your wedding party
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4-6 Months
Consult with a professional lighting company
Select ceremony musicians
Meet with your DJ about music for your wedding dinner & reception
Nail down your reception venue
*As soon as the venue is booked, get wedding insurance. If the venue was to burn down or be inaccessible, the couple would be covered.
Consult your travel agent about honeymoon plans
Schedule fittings for men’s formalwear
Talk with a stationer about invitations, programs & other paper goods
Pick & reserve your perfect honeymoon destination
Shop for your wedding bands
Set up your wedding registry at your favorite stores or set up an online honeymoon fund
Reserve wedding day transportation
Carefully choose & reserve rental items
10-12 Months
6-9 Months
Set up tastings with caterers unless you have a full service venue like The Estate at Independence with a highly experienced culinary staff.
Start working with your coordinator on the wedding day timeline
Schedule appointments with bridal salons
Choose wedding party attire
Interview & choose a photographer
Find the perfect florist
Schedule your engagement photo session
Peruse the portfolios of videographers & find the right person to document your day on video
Find an officiant & meet with him or her to talk about ceremony details
Talk with your officiant about pre-marital coaching
Make sure your visas & passports are up to date
Nail down your caterer
Interview & choose DJ and/or Band
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Visit the Planning Tools page on RichmondWeddings.com to find our free downloadable Rental Return Checklist!
Finalize floral design
Order your wedding cake & if you’re a traditional Southern bride, order the groom’s cake
Send local activity information to guests
Make sure you have all of your travel immunizations
Keep up with your gown fittings
Consider dance lessons
Set up an outing for your groom. The Estate at Independence offers golf, laser tag, zip lines and more!
If you are planning on coloring your hair, schedule the appointment now. This will give you time to color correct if you don't like it
2-4 Months
2-4 Weeks
Send a wedding announcement to your local newspaper with a photo
Arrange professional addressing of invitations
Select gifts for the bridal party and each other. This service is included with your package at The Estate at Independence.
Schedule hair & makeup trial
Make sure your bridesmaids have chosen the right shoes
Schedule final gown and men’s formalwear fittings
Make rehearsal dinner reservations
Consider planning a welcome party if you are having a lot of out of town guests
Schedule your bridal portrait session
Order favors or forgo favors & make a charitable donation on your guests’ behalf
Provide planner with welcome baskets for out-of-town guests
Think about adding late night snacks to your menu
Mail formal out formal invitations
Make it official – secure marriage license
Confirm wedding rehearsal time and address with participating parties
Confirm transportation and arrival times
Confirm hotel room blocks
Arrange to professionally clean & preserve your gown after the wedding
Write or choose your wedding vows
Finalize your wedding timeline and make sure a copy goes to all vendors. Another included service with The Estate at Independence!
1-2 Weeks
1-2 Months
Pick up wedding bands. Be sure to check sizes & engravings
Get your engagement ring cleaned so that it sparkles on your wedding day
Have final consultations with vendors. The Estate at Independence’s team will take care of confirmations and timing.
Send final guest count to caterer & venues
Remind the boys to pick up their formalwear & shoes
Make sure all written contracts with vendors are in place
Stock your bridal emergency kit
Go to your final gown fitting & be sure that your mom or Maid of Honor learns to bustle your dress. Or relax knowing the coordinator at The Estate at Independence will handle this!
Write vows/speeches
Get excited! Your big day is almost here!
Plan bridesmaid outing
After the Wedding
Confirm honeymoon reservations & be sure that your
Ensure Formalwear is returned
Review your vendors on RichmondWeddings.com
Preserve your dress
Write Thank You Notes
luggage meets current travel regulations.
Record gifts as your receive them and write thank you notes
Invite wedding party & out-of-town guests to rehearsal dinner
Review your reception seating chart
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vendor directory AIRBRUSH SPRAY TAN
BEAUTY
Island Glow Sunless Studio, Salon and Beauty Bar (804) 615-1348 Ad page 204
Candice Hardy Makeup Artistry CandiceHardyMUA.com Ad page 205
ALTERATIONS Inspired by the Dress (804) 513-9165 Ad page 131 Caryn’s Bridals, Formals & Tuxedos 233 North Main Street Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 392-5111 Ad page 134 Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center 1517-D North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad inside back cover
BACHELORETTE PARTIES Mary Kay Cosmetics Kelly Shannon (804) 402-8672 Ad page 204 Painting with a Twist 201 Towne Center West Blvd. #710 Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 447-2491 Ad page 23 Quench IV Bar 2008 Bremo Road - #111 Richmond, VA 23226 (804) 493-4060 Ad page 204 Richmond Limousine 10101 West Broad Street Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 266-2800 Ad page 223 TNT Limousine 10124-G West Broad Street Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 965-0990 Ad page 222
DND Beauty LLC DNDBeautyLLC.com Ad page 205 Island Glow Sunless Studio, Salon and Beauty Bar (804) 615-1348 Ad page 204 Lulubea Beauty (804) 338-8729 Ad page 204 Mary Kay Cosmetics Kelly Shannon (804) 402-8672 Ad page 204 Quench IV Bar 2008 Bremo Road - #111 Richmond, VA 23226 (804) 493-4060 Ad page 204 Salon Debonaire 8514 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 741-0429 Ad page 205
BRIDAL REGISTRIES Dillard’s Short Pump Town Center (804) 253-0182 Stony Point Fashion Park (804) 253-1860 Macy’s Chesterfield Towne Center (804) 794-5800 Short Pump Town Center (804) 364-8209
BRIDESMAID DRESSES Caryn’s Bridals, Formals & Tuxedos 233 North Main Street Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 392-5111 Ad page 134 Inspired by the Dress (804) 513-9165 Ad page 131
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Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center 1517-D North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad inside back cover
CAKES & SWEETS The Candy Lady (804) 399-0516 Ad page 23 The Mixing Bowl Bakery 8540 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 288-2712 Ad page 210 North End Gelato 718 North Cleveland Street Richmond, VA 23221 (804) 729-7555 Ad page 211 Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 50 Irvington Road Kilmarnock, VA (804) 577-4200 Ad page 22 Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 6620 Main Street Gloucester, VA (804) 210-1511 Ad page 22
CATERERS A Sharper Palate Catering & Events 5511 Lakeside Avenue Richmond, VA 23228 (804) 553-0495 Ad page 101 Atlas 42 4032 Cox Road - Suite A Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 965-0420 Ad page 52 Bar Solita 123 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 (804) 308-3605 Ad page 89 Bistro 27 27 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 (804) 780-0086 Ad page 88 Butler’s Unique Catering 8903 Three Chopt Rd. Suite E. Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 519-9278 Ad page 100 Capt Rob’s Pigalicious BBQ (804) 399-3587 Ad page 105
Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 132 Main Street Warsaw, VA (804) 250-2299 Ad page 22
Cater 2 Events 8534 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 269-0359 Ad page 103
Westhampton Pastry Shop, Inc. 5728 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23226 (804) 282-4413 Ad page 211
Deep Run Roadhouse Catering 12379 Gayton Road Richmond, VA 23238 (804) 740-6301 Ad page 104
CALLIGRAPHY Papeterie 3048 Stony Point Road Richmond, VA 23235 Appointment recommended (804) 560-7955 Ad page 199 Papeterie 107 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 By appointment only (804) 560-7955 Ad page 199
Everyday Gourmet 6010-B North Crestwood Avenue Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 651-7281 Ad page 104 Get Cozy info@GetCozyBars.com Ad page 111 Maggiano’s Little Italy 11800 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 253-0910 Ad page 82
Mama J’s 415 North 1st Street Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 337-7678 Ad page 105
Total Wine 3500 Pump Road Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 253-0012 Ad page 109
MOSAIC Catering + Events 3001 Cutshaw Avenue Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 525-2190 Ad page 105
Total Wine 8099 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23294 (804) 935-7750 Ad page 109
The Old Original Bookbinder’s Seafood & Steakhouse 2306 East Cary Street Richmond, VA 23223 (804) 643-6900 Ad page 91
Total Wine 10036 Robious Road Richmond, VA 23235 (804) 323-5866 Ad page 109
The Place at Innsbrook 4036-C Cox Road Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 346-2100 Ad page 72 Roma Ristorante Italiano 7240 Bell Creek Road Mechanicsville, VA 23111 (804) 559-9200 Ad page 107
CEREMONY MUSIC Belle Arte String Quartet info@BelleArteQuartet.com Ad page 175 Lyric String Quartet (804) 233-1642 Ad page 175
CHURCHES
The Savory Grain 2043 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 (804) 592-4000 Ad page 100
Henricus Historical Park 251 Henricus Park Road Chester, VA 23836 (804) 748-1131 Ad page 72
Tarrant’s West 11129 Three Chopt Road Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 205-9009 Ad page 89
Monumental Church 1224 East Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 643-7407 Ad page 93
Taziki’s 4024-C Cox Road Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 588-3718 Ad page 104
St. Joseph’s Villa 8000 Brook Road Richmond, VA 23227 (804) 553-3215 Ad page 93
Taziki’s 12643 Stone Village Way Midlothian, VA 23113 (804) 588-3718 Ad page 104
Tiny Chapel Weddings Richmond, VA (804) 396-4245 Ad page 93
Taziki’s 14221 Hull Stree Road Chesterfield, VA 23832 (804) 588-3718 Ad page 104
Unity of Bon Air 923 Buford Road Richmond, VA 23235 (804) 320-5584 Ad page 93 Waverly Estate 11586 Courthouse Road Lunenburg, VA 23952 (434) 321-4032 Ad page 47
CUSTOM ATTIRE Alton Lane 304 Libbie Avenue Richmond, VA 23226 (804) 417-0097 Ad page 134 Inspired by the Dress (804) 513-9165 Ad page 131
DANCE INSTRUCTION Arthur Murray Richmond 3983 Deep Rock Road Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 200-5146 Ad page 179
DISC JOCKEYS Bow Tied Weddings BowTiedWeddings.com Ad page 170 Bunn DJ Company BunnDjRva.com Ad page 175 Eric Herod Entertainment EricHerod.com Ad page 174 Nard’s Professional DJ Service (804) 747-9159 Ad page 173 Rhythm of Love ROLwedddings.com Ad page 173 Sunshine Events by Debbie (804) 513-2345 Ad page 17
EVENT STAFFING The Coordinated Event (804) 344-0011 Ad page 20
Crown Trophy 8111 Staples Mill Road Richmond, VA 23228 (804) 262-1000 Ad page 23 Flowers Make Scents 1272 Alverser Plaza Midlothian, VA 23113 (804) 897-6100 Ad page 169 gifted (804) 276-2540 Ad page 23 Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 50 Irvington Road Kilmarnock, VA (804) 577-4200 Ad page 22 Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 6620 Main Street Gloucester, VA (804) 210-1511 Ad page 22 Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 132 Main Street Warsaw, VA (804) 250-2299 Ad page 22 Painting with a Twist 201 Towne Center West Blvd. #710 Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 447-2491 Ad page 23 Papeterie 3048 Stony Point Road Richmond, VA 23235 Appointment recommended (804) 560-7955 Ad page 199 Papeterie 107 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 By appointment only (804) 560-7955 Ad page 199
FAVORS & GIFTS The Candy Lady Richmond, VA (804) 399-0516 Ad page 23
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vendor directory FLOWERS Blooms at The Jefferson 101 West Franklin Street Richmond, VA 23220 (804) 649-4676 Ad page 3 Blue Ridge Event Production 8211 Hermitage Road Henrico, VA 23228 (804) 823-7738 / (434) 975-3540 Ad page 125 Designs by Victoria Floral 2801-A Hathaway Road Richmond, VA 23225 (804) 560-7700 Ad page 169 Flowers Make Scents 1272 Alverser Plaza Midlothian, VA 23113 (804) 897-6100 Ad page 169 Kim Moody Design 201 South Main Street Blackstone, VA 23824 (434) 292-5000 Ad page 168 Kim Moody Design 5021 Huguenot Road Richmond, VA 23226 (804) 887-0171 Ad page 168 Pandora’s Posies (804) 379-2514 (804) 213-2320 Ad page 168 Vogue Flowers 1114 North Boulevard Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 353-9600 Ad page 164
GOWN PRESERVATION HandCraft Cleaners 3 Locations in Richmond (804) 212-7683 Ad page 130 Puritan Cleaners 13 Locations to Serve You (804) 355-5726 Ad page 126
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Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center 1517 North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad inside back cover
HAIR & MAKEUP Candice Hardy Makeup Artistry CandiceHardyMUA.com Ad page 205 DND Beauty LLC DNDBeautyLLC.com Ad page 205 Island Glow Sunless Studio, Salon and Beauty Bar (804) 615-1348 Ad page 204 Lulubea Beauty (804) 338-8729 Ad page 204 Mary Kay Cosmetics Kelly Shannon (804) 402-8672 Ad page 204 Salon Debonaire 8514 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 741-0429 Ad page 205
HEALTH & WELLNESS Quench IV Bar 2008 Bremo Road - #111 Richmond, VA 23226 (804) 493-4060 Ad page 204
HONEYMOON & TRAVEL Accent On Travel 1125 Gaskins Road - Suite 600 Richmond, VA 23238 (804) 273-0564 Ad page 212 Journeys, Inc. (804) 288-0188 Ad page 215 Modern Travel Professionals (804) 833-8050 Ad page 217
Ruth Stirling Travel (804) 746-1838 Ad page 217 The Vacation Chic (804) 370-8294 Ad page 217
HOTELS Hilton Richmond Downtown 501 East Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 727-2104 Ad page 76 Hilton Garden Inn Richmond Innsbrook 4050 Cox Road Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 521-2900 Ad page 75 The Jefferson Hotel 101 West Franklin Street Richmond, VA 23220 (866) 247-2305 Ad page 3 Linden Row Inn 100 East Franklin Street Richmond, VA 23219 sales@lindenrowinn.com Ad page 60 Marriott Richmond Short Pump 4240 Dominion Boulevard Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 965-9500 Ad page 78 Omni Hotels and Resorts 100 South 12th Street Richmond, VA 23219 OmniHotels.com/Richmond Ad page 78 Richmond Marriott Downtown 500 East Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 343-6905 Ad page 79 Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center Tapestry Collection by Hilton 1000 Virginia Center Parkway Glen Allen, VA 23059 (804) 727-1404 Ad page 55 The Westin Richmond 6631 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 282-8444 Ad page 77
INVITATIONS & PAPER GOODS Papeterie 3048 Stony Point Road Richmond, VA 23235 Appointment recommended (804) 560-7955 Ad page 199 Papeterie 107 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 By appointment only (804) 560-7955 Ad page 199
JEWELRY Diamonds Direct - Short Pump 11131 West Broad Street Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 967-0500 Ad back cover
LIGHTING DESIGN Blue Ridge Event Production 8211 Hermitage Road Henrico, VA 23228 (804) 823-7738 / (434) 975-3540 Ad page 125 The Lighting & Sound Company 4204 Eubank Road - Suite G Richmond, VA 23231 (804) 893-5066 Ad page 123 Lighting Professors 6403-G Dickens Place Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 755-8014 Ad page 125 MOSAIC Catering + Events 3001 Cutshaw Avenue Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 525-2190 Ad page 105
LUXURY RESTROOM TRAILERS Edmunds Waste Removal (804) 478-4688 Ad page 117
MOTHER’S APPAREL Caryn’s Bridals, Formals & Tuxedos 233 North Main Street Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 392-5111 Ad page 134 Inspired by the Dress (804) 513-9165 Ad page 131 Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center 1517 North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad inside back cover
OFFICIANTS Tiny Chapel Weddings (804) 396-4245 Ad page 93
PHOTO BOOTHS Memories 2 Capture Photo Booth (804) 223-5672 Ad page 125 Richmond Photobooth (804) 396-8119 Ad page 121 Social Party Booth (804) 402-7397 Ad page 125
PHOTOGRAPHY & PORTRAITS Butler Portraits 4600 Millridge Parkway Midlothian, VA 23112 (804) 744-4700 Ad page 152 Emily Bartell Photography (804) 874-0848 Ad page 153 Erin Schrad Photography (804) 512-5162 Ad page 157 Hayes and Fisk Photography 1003 North Parham Road Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 740-9307 Ad pages 144-145
Heather Hughes Photography 733 Thimble Shoals Boulevard Newport News, VA 23606 (757) 870-4006 Ad page 152
Classic Party Rentals of VA South 9313 Burge Avenue Richmond, VA 23237 (804) 743-7980 Ad page 119
Heather Hughes Photography 5560 Foundation Street Williamsburg, VA 23188 (757) 870-4006 Ad page 152
Classic Party Rentals of VA West 9127-B West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23294 (804) 270-9544 Ad page 119
J. Cameron Photography (804) 867-8553 Ad page 156
Edmunds Waste Removal (804) 478-4688 Ad page 117
Kristine Pringle Photographers KristinePringle.com Ad page 153
MOSAIC Catering + Events 3001 Cutshaw Avenue Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 525-2190 Ad page 105
Leslie Nichole Photographer (850) 865-0669 Ad page 148 MJ Mendoza Photography MJMendozaPhotography.com Ad page 155
Party Perfect 3210 West Marshall Street Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 359-2400 Ad page 118
Orrie Gaines Photography 19 East 4th Street - Studio 40 Richmond, VA 23224 (804) 308-2778 / (267) 322-8077 Ad page 149
The Prop Shop Party Rentals 1512 Belleville Street Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 228-1100 Ad page 112
Paige Stevens Photography PaigeStevensPhotography.com Ad page 152
Rent-E-Quip 2600 Boulevard Colonial Heights, VA 23834 (804) 520-7100 Ad pages 114-115
TUXEDOS & CUSTOM SUITS Alton Lane 304 Libbie Avenue Richmond, VA 23226 (804) 417-0097 Ad page 134 Caryn’s Bridals, Formals & Tuxedos 233 North Main Street Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 392-5111 Ad page 134 The Groom’s Corner (located inside Tiffanys Bridal) 1517 North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad page 142
VENUES Pages 94-98
VIDEOGRAPHY DreamClip Films (757) 771-0288 Ad page 161
WEDDING GOWNS
TRANSPORTATION
Annalise Bridal Boutique 1309 East Main Street Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 649-3000 Ad page 131
Richmond Limousine 10101 West Broad Street Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 266-2800 Ad page 223
Blue Sage Bridal 20 East Main Street Richmond, VA 23219 BlueSageBridal.com Ad page 134
RENTALS
Taylor’s Classic Travels (804) 767-6387 Ad page 223
Blue Ridge Event Production 8211 Hermitage Road Henrico, VA 23228 (804) 823-7738 / (434) 975-3540 Ad page 125
TNT Limousine 10124-G West Broad Street Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 965-0990 Ad page 222
Caryn’s Bridals, Formals & Tuxedos 233 North Main Street Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 392-5111 Ad page 134
Relish Photography by Lee, LLC. (804) 569-5070 Ad page 157 RW Bagley Photography RWBagleyPhotography.com Ad page 151 Sarah & Dave Photography SarahAndDavePhotography.com Ad page 152
Classic Party Rentals of VA Midlothian 14211 Midlothian Turnpike Midlothian, VA 23113 (804) 464-4825 Ad page 119
Inspired by the Dress (804) 513-9165 Ad page 131
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vendor directory Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center 1517 North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad inside back cover
WEDDING PLANNERS Blue Ridge Event Production 8211 Hermitage Road Henrico, VA 23228 (804) 823-7738 Ad page 125
The Coordinated Event (804) 344-0011 Ad page 20 Kim Moody Design 201 South Main Street Blackstone, VA 23824 (434) 292-5000 Ad page 168 Kim Moody Design 5021 Huguenot Road Richmond, VA 23226 (804) 887-0171 Ad page 168
MOSAIC Catering + Events 3001 Cutshaw Avenue Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 525-2190 Ad page 105 Simply Charmed Weddings & Events SimplyCharmedEvents.com Ad page 17 SimplySomethingSweet (804) 550-5241 / (804) 363-7427 Ad page 17
Remember, you can always find more information about
OUR RW VENDORS on RichmondWeddings.com! Be sure to tell them you saw their ad in Richmond Weddings™! And follow us on social media @rvaweddings for endless inspiration.
Happy Planning! The Richmond Weddings™ Team
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Sunshine Events by Debbie (804) 513-2345 Ad page 17 XOXO Weddings & Events (804) 441-3609 Ad page 17
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the last look Paige Stevens Photography | Historic Mankin Mansion | Carynâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridals, Formals, and Tuxedos | Candice Hardy Makeup Artistry | Model: Rachel Bascombe
BRIDE DETAILS Jumpsuit: Style #016824 by Mon Cheri. Crepe Jumpsuit offering an illusion bateau neckline trimmed with beading, an illusion cape-like back, a beaded natural waist, and attached wide leg pants with pockets. Available in both Ivory and Navy. $418 by special order at Carynâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridals, Formals, and Tuxedos.
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