Richmond Weddings™ Magazine Spring/Summer 2023

Brittany Lowe Photography

Chloe Malsick Photography

Kibler Photography

Rebecca Burt Photography

Allison Dash Photography

We hope 2023 is off to a fantastic start and your wedding planning is coming in to focus while preparing for one of the best days of your lives. We here at Richmond Weddings™ have a couple of new items in the works and are eager to share them when they are finalized. They are sure to be helpful as you continue the journey toward your wedding day.

In this current edition, not only will you find inspiration, learn important information, and read about the latest trends, but also discover the best wedding professionals RVA has to offer.

We are pleased to be able to provide this local resource for engaged couples like you for over 30 years. We encourage you to keep this copy handy and use the tools at the back of the magazine and those available on our website, RichmondWeddings.com, to keep you on track. A digital version of the magazine is also available there.

Remember to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Pinterest for more inspiration and to be kept in the loop on upcoming events including our next show on Sunday, July 16 at Main Street Station where you will meet the largest selection of wedding pros found anywhere in Central Virginia.

We are very grateful for your ongoing support and so are the local small business owners found here and at our shows. Please make sure to tell them you found them at Richmond Weddings™. They will be appreciative knowing their investment is paying dividends.

Finally, we thank you for taking the time to read our magazine. We love reading couples’ stories and sharing them with others along the same adventure. We hope we have helped you along the planning process!

Sincerely,

Amye & Scott Brunette

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!

Issue 65 SPRING/SUMMER 2023

Publishers: Amye & Scott Brunette

Editor-in-Chief: Amye Brunette

Chief Operating Officer: Scott Brunette

Art Direction & Graphic Design: E. Strategic Design

Contributing Writers:

Nadia S. Anderson

Rebecca Blackwell

Hannah Craft

Tammy Edwards

Emilie Ellis

Christine Hardenberger

Shalese Higginbotham

Kylie Hinson

Marissa McCormick Jordan

Tatiana Kekuna

Emily Mack

Kim Moody

Rachel Moore

Alyssa Nichols

The Sales Team at Party Perfect

Holly Peters

Paula Ramirez

Nicole Rubino

Lisa Trani

Kristen Walker

Tommy Waters

For questions, comments or advertising information call 804-789-9110 or email info@richmondweddings.com

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.

Hayes & Fisk Photography

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Stephanie Jenkins Photography

MJ Mendoza Photography

Phew Shots Photography

J. Cameron Photography

Kylie Hinson Photography

WEDDING BUDGET 101

By Nadia S. Anderson, CPA, CWEP “What’s

your budget?” It’s one of the first questions your vendors will ask as you set up consultations.

Why It’s Important

According to a recent poll, only 9% of couples didn’t pay for any part of their wedding. The remaining 91% need a financial plan to help govern decision making when choosing the best fit for wedding vendors. Creating a spending plan at the start of the wedding planning process saves you time because it helps to narrow your focus to the vendors whose prices fall within your spending range. It also saves you the heartache of falling in love with a product or service provider that you really cannot afford. Now, let’s get to the math.

The Perfect Formula

FC + CC = MS x 75% = WB!

STEP 1: Determine your family contribution (FC).

Sometimes, parents or other family members offer to pay for a specific service like the cake, photography, or music. It is certainly helpful to have loved ones make a financial commitment to assist with your big day; however, they may not have a current idea of the cost of the service. Therefore, it’s recommended that you ask them to tell you the specific dollar amount that they would like to contribute and when you can expect to receive it.

STEP 2: Calculate the couple’s contribution (CC).

What you and your fiancé have saved specifically for the wedding is the basis for the “couple’s contribution.” If you don’t have a dedicated savings, you can still have the wedding of your dreams

- you just need more time to realize that dream. Take your aftertax income and subtract all the bills and personal expenses that you have in a month. The cash that you have left can be added to wedding savings. Add this amount for the number of months that remain before your target wedding date, and now you have your couple’s contribution.

STEP 3: Add the family contribution to the couple contribution to determine the maximum spend (FC + CC = MS).

This is the maximum amount that you will have available to spend on your wedding. There are always unexpected items that come up, especially if you don’t partner with a professional wedding planner who can advise you of the things that your detailed budget may be missing. It’s important to take one more step to determine your wedding budget.

STEP 4: Reduce the maximum spend by 25% (MS x .75 = WB!)

Reducing the maximum spend amount ensures that you will not overspend even when you pick-up last-minute items just days before your wedding. Now you have your wedding budget!

Nadia S. Anderson is a CPA, Certified Wedding and Event Planner, the Owner

at Lavender Hill,

intimate garden venue in the heart of Richmond. To learn more about how her team can help you create stress-free wedding memories, please visit www.vagraceevents.com. To learn more about the venue, visit www.experiencelavenderhill.com

of Virginia Grace, an Event Management company focused on planning luxury weddings and coordinating events

an

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 our wedding planners ready to help! They are pros when it comes to organization and bringing together the biggest day of your life, so BREATHE!

wedding countdown

12-18 MONTHS

Interview & choose a wedding coordinator

MJ Mendoza Photography

The Perfect Wedding Day TIMELINE

By Tatiana Kekuna

Creating a perfect timeline for the wedding day is truly the basis for ensuring everything goes as you envisioned. If a wedding were a house, the timeline is the foundation.

Sunset Time

Most couples want outdoor photos for lighting purposes or because of the views of their venue. Knowing the sunset time on the day of your wedding is extremely important in deciding the ceremony time and therefore pictures for your day. If you are getting married in the winter or fall, the ceremony likely needs to be earlier than if you choose a summer date.

The First Look

A first look is the moment before the ceremony for you and your soon-to-be spouse to see each other (usually privately) just prior to walking down the aisle. Deciding on a first look allows you to get formal photos before the ceremony. If you choose to go this route, the sunset time isn’t quite as big of a factor, allowing a bit more flexibility in your timeline. If the wedding is in fall or winter when there’s limited daylight, a first look is usually ideal.

Hair and Makeup

It’s not a secret in our industry that hair and makeup services can take hours on the wedding day, especially if you have a large wedding party. Determining when photos will begin will be imperative for deciding what time hair and makeup services should start. This may also impact cost – staffing may need to be increased, or it’s possible the hair and makeup team will charge extra for having an early morning start time.

Eating

A large majority of weddings take place during dinner. Ensuring it isn’t served too early or too late can have a serious impact on guest experience. If the ceremony is around 30 minutes long, you can expect dinner to be around 1.5 hours later. This accounts for cocktail hour and introductions into the reception. If guests are bringing children, this may be more of a prioritized concern. If the ceremony and reception are in different locations, you’ll want to factor in travel time as well. Use a GPS app to determine travel time. Make sure you

Phew Shots Photography

check it on the same day of the week and wedding start time so it is accurate. It is also recommended to add a cushion in your timeline whenever travel is a factor.

The End Time

Most venues have a designated time that events must conclude. Additionally, there is typically a difference in the timing for the event to end and when the vendors must vacate. Take all of this into consideration as you plan your timeline for the day. The sweet spot for wedding timing is around 6 hours from the start of your ceremony to the end of the night. Any shorter than this, you may feel rushed. Alternatively, going longer, you may lose guests. Or you may not be able to last to the end of your own wedding!

SAMPLE TIMELINE

NOTE: This is solely for guidance. Refer to your pro vendor team for adjustments.

2:00pm Photographer arrives.

3:00pm First look

4:00pm Couple is hidden/tucked away somewhere with wedding party as guests arrive.

4:30pm Ceremony

5:00pm Cocktail hour

6:00pm Cocktail hour ends and reception begins.

6:10pm Introduction of the couple and wedding party into the reception –formal dances follow

6:15pm Welcome toast/blessing

6:20pm Dinner begins.

7:00pm Speeches

7:15pm Open dance floor

9:50pm Last song

10:00pm End time/getaway

Lean on your vendor team for input on your timeline to make sure the day is exactly as you imagined and that the vendors can deliver their services to the best of their abilities.

Tatiana Kekuna 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

Sandy Swagger Jones Photography

MJ Mendoza Photography

MJ Mendoza 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!

wedding countdown

2-4 MONTHS

Select gifts for the bridal party and each other.

Order favors or forgo favors & make a charitable donation on your guests’ behalf

Stephanie Jenkins Photography

Sweets, Treats and all the Deets…

By Kristen Walker

Desserts are a memorable part of the reception. From the ceremonial aspect of the cutting of the cake, or the endearing moment that a couple shares the first bite together. Camera lights go off everywhere, toasting occurs, and festivities continue.

Dessert trends have changed over the years and have become another pinnacle moment to embrace the overall feel of the wedding environment. Whether it be seasonal and tied to the time of year or a carryover from the style of food that is being served for dinner, make it as special and unique to you as a couple and something you will certainly enjoy. Here are a few ideas to consider when selecting what the dessert will be.

Want to bring a unique vibe to your special day?

Our wide variety of allnatural flavors is perfect for any festivity. Pair your Pops with your favorite spirit for a signature treat at cocktail hour, as a delicious dessert option, or surprise guests with a late night snack before your big send-off. Everybody will be popping off the dance floor for our famous pops!

1. Do you want the dessert to be a centerpiece?

A Masterpiece of Art placed on the middle of the dance floor for all to see prior to serving? Maybe an amazing, tiered cake is the way to go.

Tip: Make sure to have a cake knife and trowel for the photos and always ask the caterer to bring an additional one as well. This ensures that if your original one is a family heirloom it stays intact.

2. Not a cake person

want the photo op and this ceremonial piece of the celebration?

Have a small cutting cake for you and your sweetheart to cut and surround it with other favorites such as chocolates, tartlets, or even cupcakes with the same flavor as the cake for guests to enjoy. Variety is always a big hit!

3. Are you getting married in the warmer months of the year?

Provide guests a way to cool off and satisfy their sweet tooth! Ice cream sundae bars with all the toppings can be fun. Think gelato, sorbet, or a variety of popsicles.

Tip: This can also be a way to accommodate any dietary needs, i.e., vegan, gluten free, dairy free.

4.

Offer warm assorted pies or crisps paired with coffee or espresso bars. Hot cider with cinnamon sticks and whipped cream will make your guests all soft and fuzzy inside.

Tip: Check with your caterer and venue. Some may be able to have Bailey’s, Kahlua or bourbon to add an extra shot of warmth to your hot beverage.

5. Want it all?

You can do that too! Create a dessert display with all the decadence.

Ideas are mini crème brulees, chocolate mousse, individual tiramisus, truffles, cheesecake, cake pops, cookies and brownies. Have a variety for all the palates to enjoy!

Tip: Don’t want a bunch of leftovers? Ask your vendor if they can put the minis in classy disposables and provide to go boxes towards the end of the night to encourage guests to take some with them.

Keep in mind that a sweet at the end of the evening may be the last thing your guests put in their mouths, which makes it just as important as the first piece of food that they eat. It is what they will leave the event dreaming about.

Kristen is a franchise owner of King of Pops in RVA as well as General Manager of A Sharper Palate Catering and Events, with over 25 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. Kristen is actively involved in all facets of the industry and loves to give back to the community and bring "UMOH” (Unexpected Moments of Happiness) to the Richmond region.

but still

On the flip side of the season, will it be chilly outside, and you want to warm your guests up for the night?

accommodations

&5 venues

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!

wedding countdown

12-18 MONTHS

Nail down your reception venue

10-12 MONTHS

Choose & book a ceremony venue if separate from your reception location

Kylie Hinson Photography

Next Stop Your Perfect Venue

Marshall Arts Photography

McKenzie Bigliazzi Photography

By Marissa McCormick Jordan

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.

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.

The North Plaza, completed in 2022, is Main Street’s Station newest option for hosting your wedding. Located outside of the train station, this space can also accommodate up to 200 guests for all wedding related events including rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and cocktail hours. If you are concerned about whether putting a damper on the festivities, the space can also be tented to keep you and your guests comfortable.

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

Kimie James Photography

McKenzie Bigliazzi Photography

Marshall Arts Photography

The harmonization of new and old, perfectly coming together into a venue unlike any other.

Lauren Taylor Photography

Sean Dewitt Photography

Marek K Photography

Kait Winston Photography

richmond virginia’s premier wedding venue

The Renaissance provides beauty and grace perfect for your special day. This all-inclusive venue was built in 1887 as the Masonic Temple and is located in the heart of Richmond Virginia's hottest area - The Arts District. Our services include: delicious onsite catering, full-service bar with beverage plans, expert planning with a personal day-of coordinator, and highly trained event staff who love what they do.

Scan Me

Mike Topham Photography

Jessica Capozzola Photography K. Smithson Photography

Orrie Gaines Photography

ENGAGEMENT RINGS for the MODERN BRIDE

It is no surprise that the round brilliant cut diamond has been the most popular diamond shape for centuries. Its classic and timeless style truly sparkles like no other. However, fancy shaped diamonds, which include all diamonds other than a round cut, have risen to the forefront of popularity for the modern, contemporary bride. From the clean lines of an emerald cut to the beauty and curvature of an oval cut, it is essential to educate yourselves on the main differences between each of them. For instance, there is a distinctiveness in the dimensions and characteristics of each individual shape, thus it’s essential to see fancy shaped diamonds in person. Also, we mustn’t forget that fancy shapes run you about 20% less in cost, in comparison to their round counterparts.

Nicole Rubino

Oval cut and pear-shaped diamonds are more popular than ever since their gorgeous shape has a lot of unique appeal. Elongated diamond shapes like this create the illusion the diamond is larger in size. Both cuts have an amazing brilliance and fire to them which make them even more desirable. It is important to note that these fancy shapes come in a variety of sizes from slim to wide cuts, so it is necessary to research a variety of diamond dimensions so that you get exactly what you’re looking for. Worn either up/down, east/west, as a solitaire, or a three-stone--oval cut diamonds are also very versatile. With their curved edges there is a great durability factor as there are no pointed edges exposed to potential damage.

The cushion cut diamond has a wonderful brilliance that is seen within this shape, and its curved edges create a very subtle and soft look. A cushion cut combines the square cut of a princess with the round edges of a round cut diamond. Very similar to other fancy cut diamonds, cushions have varying dimensions that make them show up either more squared shaped or more rectangular — so it’s very important to look at a variety of dimensions and sizes. Modern day cushion cuts are classified as modified brilliant and brilliant cushions. Take a look at both to decide which you love the most. Like any diamond purchase, you have to see it with your own eyes.

Step cut diamonds such as emerald and asscher cuts produce a more unique look, with less brilliance, and instead a ‘mirror effect’. This style is best known for its precision and sophistication. With less fire, these cuts create long lines of light and shadows of darkness. Emerald cuts can be square cut similar to an asscher or can appear narrow and rectangular. As for any step cut, it’s important to review all of the diamond’s characteristics prior to making the big decision. Lastly, clarity becomes very important in these shapes, as the table or face of the diamond is more visible causing any imperfections or inclusions to be magnified.

Nicole Rubino is a Regional Marketing Manager for Diamonds Direct. Diamonds Direct, America’s largest and most successful jewelry companies with 25 retail locations was founded in 1995. They are a directto-consumer destination retailer headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. Their vertically integrated concept allows the retailer to cut out the middlemen and maintain involvement in the entire diamond process. Diamonds Direct backs their products with industry-leading guarantees and warranties, including their signature 110 percent lifetime upgrade. DiamondsDirect.com

Wedding Day Tips FROM

A WEDDING PLANNER

By Tatiana Kekuna

When thinking about your wedding day, you may get anxious wondering about all the things that could possibly go wrong (or be forgotten!). There are a few ways to make sure the day goes smoothly and that you are stress free!

TIPS FOR THE BRIDE:

1. Get a good night’s sleep after the rehearsal dinner. Do whatever you have to do to get calm and relaxed and go to sleep at a decent hour. This is not just about being well rested for the big day, but also for your photos. Makeup can work magic, but it can’t hide everything. Puffy, tired eyes are hard to cover, so get rest and keep the alcohol intake to a minimum.

2. Put jewelr y, shoes, and accessories in the bottom of the dress bag. Make sure these items are in bags or containers that won’t snag or damage the dress. If they are with the dress, you are far less likely to forget them, and you will have them in one spot for those beautiful detail shots.

3. Let the dress hang. Hang the dress out of the bag safely away from the hair and makeup location. This is often enough to get wrinkles out but if you must steam it, use the steamer away from hair and makeup. The steam will wreak havoc on your hair and makeup. It will be like walking into a sauna.

4. Skip the bra, button ups are your friend. Forego a bra the morning of the wedding to avoid red spots from the straps. You don’t want to wear anything you have to pull over your head either. Opt for a button down or robe that opens in the front.

5. Break in your shoes. Your feet being in pain can derail the day. Make sure you walk around in the ceremony shoes before the wedding to break them in. Even if you plan to change into a different pair for dancing, the ceremony shoes will likely be worn for a couple of hours.

6. Eat and hydrate! Weddings are long days. Forgetting to eat and drinking alcohol is a recipe for disaster. Make sure to eat mess free snacks throughout the morning and afternoon while getting ready and drink plenty of water. It’s also not a bad idea to take it easy on drinks until the reception.

Kylie Hinson Photography

TIPS FOR THE GROOM:

1. Get a good night’s rest the night before. As tempting as it may be to bar hop or stay up all night drinking with the groomsmen, resist the urge and keep the partying for your wedding night. Spending the wedding day hung over is not ideal.

2. Gather all your things into the suit/tux bag. Make sure shoes, cuff links, tie, and other accessories are all packed up together to ensure you don’t forget it the morning of. The less you have to think about as you head out the door, the better.

3. Have two dress shirts. This is solid advice for the groom and groomsmen. Oftentimes, the shirts men wear on wedding day are light colored. In the event you spill a beer, hug your mom, or simply sweat, having a clean shirt to change into can be super helpful for looking and feeling your best.

4. Groom the facial hair. If you shave, do this early in the morning of the wedding day with a fresh razor. You don’t want to be in the mirror shaping your beard moments before photos begin. Bumps and redness will show in photos. On that same note, the morning of the wedding is not a time to test out new ways of styling your hair! Do what you know works and makes you feel your absolute best.

5. Eat. There tends to be a bit more “relaxing” time for guys. Sometimes this can lend itself to more enjoyment of alcohol before the wedding and less eating. Make sure you eat and drink plenty of water before the wedding ceremony.

Most importantly for both soon to be spouses, look in the mirror, take a moment to breathe, and soak in how wonderful the day is. It’s going to be your best day ever.

Tatiana Kekuna 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

Phew Shots Photography

Kimie James Photo & Video

Marshall Arts Photography

Mike Topham Photography

McKenzie Bigliazzi Photography

Kimie James Photo & Video

The Slice of Heaven You’ve Been Looking For OAKDALE

By Shalese Higginbotham, POSH PR®

When he was driving past a beautiful farm property every day on his way to work, Chris Stem never imagined that he would someday get to turn that property into a wedding venue.

“I kept telling my wife that I couldn’t let it turn into a housing development,” Chris says. “I think she thought I was a little crazy, but here we are!” After surviving 2020 after just opening in 2019, Oakdale is now fully immersed in the wedding boom and booking well into 2024.

When he chose to create the wedding space, one thing was completely clear to Chris: he had to maintain the integrity of the land and its rich history. The first step? Choosing a name with plenty of personal meaning.

The name Oakdale comes from partner Jeff Sears’ nearby family farm that has been passed down from generation to generation since 1902. Today, Oakdale still maintains its agricultural roots. It is the home of 75 head of cattle, pigs, sheep, and a booming hay operation. It is also Chris’s home and of course, a stunning wedding and event venue.

Oakdale is the perfect combination of convenience and seclusion. The 100-acre property is perfectly quiet and idyllic, yet it sits just 10 minutes from Short Pump and Downtown Ashland. Options for rehearsal dinner

When he was driving past a beautiful farm property every day on his way to work, Chris Stem never imagined that he would someday get to turn that property into a wedding venue.

Meredith Sledge Photography

Ashley Eagleson Photography

spots and guest accommodations are plentiful! Plus, for your out-oftown guests, Oakdale is a quick 35-minute drive from the Richmond Airport.

The jewel of it all, a modern black and white barn with giant picture windows, provides the perfect balance of rusticity and elegance. “It looks like a barn, but inside, it’s a blank slate,” Chris says. “Our couples can create a space that feels elegant, or they can make it feel simple and cozy. It’s all over the map. We’ve seen everything from rustic themes to an opulent indoor garden theme. It’s a great space to create whatever dream you have for your big day.”

The fully climate-controlled barn overlooks a glittering pond and open hayfield where couples can choose from multiple picturesque outdoor locations for their ceremony. Your cocktail hour can take place inside or you can use the two outdoor patios complete with a fire pit and outdoor bar for those pre-dinner drinks.

With 4,000 square feet of indoor event space, Oakdale can host weddings up to 200 guests. You can choose to have your ceremony outside or inside, whichever you (or the weather!) prefer. There’s also an option to host a fully outdoor wedding under a tent or in the open

air so you can enjoy a night under the stars. The venue is fully handicap accessible and of course, includes plenty of parking for guest vehicles as well as limos and buses.

Oakdale is the perfect venue for the couple who wants to keep the planning process simple. Your package includes 10 hours of venue access, a day-of coordinator, multiple outdoor ceremony site options, indoor event space, tables, chairs, linens, golf carts to shuttle your guests from their cars to the event, bartenders, set up, break down, and even a DJ if you’d like! “The building sells itself,” Chris says. “We offer so much — our clients are comfortable because we take so much off of their plates.”

“When it comes to hosting a wedding here, all you have to do is bring in catering,” says venue manager Mary Jane Spagnolo. And it’s true! All you have to do is find your caterer, photographer, and florist, and Oakdale’s incredible staff will handle the rest.

If you’re looking for a slice of heaven not too far off the beaten path, Oakdale is exactly what you need. Not only will you have a dedicated and experienced team by your side for all of your planning needs, but you’ll also get to be a part of this beautiful property’s history.

Oakdale is now taking bookings for 2023-2024 and beyond. Visit their website, www.oakdalerva.com, email info@oakdalerva.com, or call 804-629-1824 for booking inquiries or more information.

13497 Ashland Road, Ashland, VA 23005

Ashley Eagleson Photography

Once Like a Spark

Ashley Eagleson Photography

Meredith Sledge Photography

M Harris Studios

Windett Photography

62 Acres of Riverfront Luxury a t The Estate at River Run

Experience

Kirsten Beatley Films

David & Tiffany Photography

Renee

Jean Photography

Meghan Glass Photography

Jessica Lapp Photography

Christine Beltrane Photography

Colleen Megan Photography

Heather Chipps Photography

Madelyn Long Photography

Michael and Laura Photography

Why Your Favorite Restaurant Can Also Be The Perfect Reception Spot

By Lisa Trani

As you pull all details together for the big day, larger items tend to come first. There’s the venue, guest list, flowers and right at the top – the food!

Sometimes making food for the wedding day is just as special as the occasion itself. That is why we often see many going for something familiar and perhaps even with a sentimental meaning.

You may prefer to go to a restaurant for the reception and integrate a certain culture or country into the food selections. For example, maybe one of you is Italian and would like to incorporate your heritage into the food theme.

So, once a decision is made on a restaurant, what are some helpful tips that can assist with making the reception not only a success but also the process less stressful?

First, many restaurants offer the option to rent out private rooms, small spaces or even a “buy out” of the entire facility to hold wedding receptions. Do you have a favorite restaurant for special occasions in your life? Why not book at an establishment where you know the facility, the food, and perhaps even have a personal connection with?

When planning a reception, it is important to already have knowledge of what the restaurant offers, and what better way to explore choices than to go directly there to eat and try it out? Most now offer so many menu options for guests to ensure everyone’s dietary needs are met.

Restaurants are a great way to allow additional flexibility for the size of the party. For instance, specific rooms can be utilized and customized with the guest list.

Another advantage of having a reception at a restaurant is having a kitchen onsite which gives more options and convenience for preparation and food choices. Often restaurants will even allow you to create your own menu.

Usually when booking a wedding reception at a restaurant everything is included in one price. Appetizers, drinks, meals and even the cake! Many times they will have a room fee and most can even include the gratuity for the event.

What about decorating? Typically, restaurants already have a set decor, however most are open to creativity with colors and themes to bring your personal touch to the event.

There are also additional benefits. Having serving staff that already works at the restaurant gives them an added advantage of being familiar with the menu as well as the facility. Also, they usually have a manager or event coordinator who is a point person that can help you take care of organizing all of the details. This really helps with planning ahead.

Choosing a restaurant for your reception can be a “one stop shop” which can lead to less stress and easier planning, and who doesn’t love that?

Lisa Trani is the PR manager for La Grotta Ristorante in Richmond, Virginia. La Grotta is an award-winning fine dining Italian restaurant, specializing in rehearsal dinners, receptions, corporate events and private parties. Owner, Chef Antonio Capece, has been creating his culinary masterpieces for over 28 years. For more information visit www.lagrottarva.com.

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Spoon & Spindle!

Where do you learn to be married?

By Rebecca Blackwell

Marriage doesn’t come with instructions, and many couples planning a wedding are focused on the celebration of it! Rightly so… love is amazing and wonderful. When you said yes to the proposal, that was just the beginning. Keep planning this amazing wedding day, but don’t forget to focus on the lifetime together. To have and to hold until death we do part. Don’t you want that to be your story? Start writing it now.

· PLAYFUL: Keep fun and friendship alive. The wedding ceremony is the official beginning of your life together. Having fun together and finding things that make you both happy are important. Keep these and other activities a part of the planning process too!

· PROACTIVE: Keep dating each other. The ceremony, the honeymoon, everyday life… make sure that your spouse is the priority and make sure they feel important. When you are both prioritizing each other, you will both feel cared for. By scheduling regular dates to do things together, you are investing in the marriage and each other.

· PURPOSE DRIVEN: What goals do you have as a couple? Where do you want to travel together? Where is a location that you can’t imagine seeing with anyone else but your spouse? Having a purpose in the marriage is something that is often overlooked; a healthy marriage consists of partners willing to do what it takes to fulfill and honor each other. Outdo one another on purpose with the intention of growing old together.

· PRACTICAL: The mountaintop is a great place to be, but the valleys are also places to lean on each other for support. What do you have in the tool belt that will help in these valleys? Talk to a relationship coach to learn what tools to use and how to implement them most effectively. Couples who take a relationship assessment and/or talk to a coach prior to the wedding or within the first year of marriage reduce their chance of divorce by 30%.

Improve your odds of success in the marriage and learn how to be married. Consider adding a coaching package to the wedding registry and let others invest in the marriage with you. Be a lifelong learner of each other and enjoy the benefits that are brought to you as a couple.

Rebecca Blackwell, Marriage & Relationship Coach with Relationship Foundation of VA, has been working with couples for over 15 years to help strengthen marriages and relationships. Her passion for marriage and family is contagious as she so enjoys encouraging couples as they start their marriage journey, enter new stages of marriage, rare dating, or working through issues.

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Sharing Expectations and Stress!

By Rebecca Blackwell

When was the last time you communicated with each others feelings about the wedding planning process? When did you share expectations, hopes and dreams about the wedding and beyond? It’s so important to be able to talk about and share these thoughts with each other. Did you know that when sharing feelings, you:

• Build trust and intimacy

• Nurture growth and authenticity

• Affect physical health by keeping feelings bottled up

• Could think it is for the best by not sharing, but you could end up missing out on a great connection with your partner too Learn how to open up to each other. You are two different people coming together to live the rest of your lives together and you both have valid thoughts, feelings, and expectations. Sharing life means sharing the good and the bad. Conflict is completely normal and knowing how to handle conflict constructively is huge in relationship satisfaction. So how can expectations be shared?

• Start by finding a good time to talk – “Hey, I want to talk about some things, when can we have some uninterrupted time together?”

• Then share what is on the heart or mind. If it stays in the head, or on the heart without being communicated, it can cause some problems down the road.

• Talk about what is expected to happen at the wedding, during the planning, at the rehearsal, etc.

have to be stressful. In becoming more comfortable learning how to communicate and sharing all things relationship, the stress levels will start to decrease. There will always be something that may come up but knowing how to spot stressful situations and knowing how to handle them will be the best tool in your toolbox.

• Recognize triggers and be able to communicate what they are.

• Make a list of things that bring joy and calms you down during stressful situations.

• Ask for a time out to discuss the stressful topic at a later time. (Remember to schedule a time to discuss within 24 hours so this issue doesn’t go from a molehill to a mountain!)

is a day – an amazing and wonderful day – and a lifetime together will show what matters most. There are milestones in every relationship and the dating, engagement, wedding, home ownership, children, successful careers, travel, family and friends, retirement, and more is what life is all about. There will be many times where there will be a difference of opinion, and when remembering that there are two sides to every conversation, things will go much smoother: less stress and clearer expectations. Who will take out the trash? Take the dog for a walk? Clean the bathrooms? Do the laundry? Schedule date nights (that is a trick question)? And the list goes on and on. Remember if something is on your mind and concerning, worrying, or upsetting, let your partner know and work through the expectations and stress together as a team. Life is about having fun and when you can be playful, proactive, purpose driven, and practical in the marriage, the move from surviving to thriving happens much easier and quicker!

• Make sure the conversation is back and forth; in other words, listen to how your partner feels about the same topic or another that is important to them.

• Listen to understand, empathize, and problem solve as a team!

Stress can be a part of planning a wedding but planning the rest of your life doesn’t

• Make sure your future spouse knows how important they are. Knowing that you can lean on each other for support will help. Remember that you’re on the same team!

The ultimate goal is a satisfied, fulfilling marriage to last a lifetime and with that being the end point, you can always work backwards from there. The wedding

Rebecca Blackwell, Marriage & Relationship Coach with Relationship Foundation of VA, has been working with couples for over 15 years to help strengthen marriages and relationships. Her passion for marriage and family is contagious as she so enjoys encouraging couples as they start their marriage journey, enter new stages of marriage, are dating, or working through issues.

Stress can be a part of planning a wedding but planning the rest of your life doesn’t have to be stressful.

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Photography Jacqui Depas

The Dominion Club, located in the Wyndham community, has built a solid reputation as being the Wedding Capital of the West End, while also being inducted into The Knot Hall of Fame for consistently being voted as the best wedding venue in Richmond, Virginia.

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Old World Weddings are New Again

By Paula Ramirez

Gilded & grand

Loads of candles mixed with oversized centerpieces, accented with the ever-classic gold chivairi chairs.

Lovely in lace

Pay homage to old world tradition by opting for luscious lace draped as a veil or even featured at your sweetheart and VIP tables.

European vibe

After the past two years, who’s not longing to travel? Take your guests on an old-world tour of Europe through your decor, even naming tables after your favorite European cities.

Formal & fun

Too often we associate formal affairs with stuffiness, not so! Combine your black-tie affair with lawn games…who says formal can’t be fun too!?

Paula Ramirez is the Proprietor of Historic Mankin Mansion Wedding & Event Estate. Paula and her husband Martin have lovingly restored this National Landmark to its original grandeur and are honored to share the treasured estate for events. Paula, Martin, and the Mansion have been featured in Forbes, Orbitz, Travel Channel, MSNBC, Martha Stewart Weddings, Oprah Magazine, Huffington Post, New York Times, and Apple TV.

PLANNING MADE PERFECT

Time Out!

5 Ways to Destress Before the Wedding

By Paula Ramirez

Planning a wedding ranks highly on any list of life’s most intense experiences. Managing details, relieving family tensions, worrying about a budget – not to mention the enormity of launching a new life with a loved one! It’s easy to end up completely stressed.

The constant pressure of wedding planning isn’t just inconvenient or uncomfortable, it can have negative consequences on your health, overall effectiveness, and even on your relationship. De-stressing is a matter of wedding survival! Luckily, there are many great ways to relax before a wedding!

Go Back to Nature

Leave behind the cell phones and devices, and plan an outdoor weekend. Try hiking a scenic trail or spending the day kayaking or paddle boarding on a local river. Time communing with the outdoors offers quiet reflection, a chance to observe the beauty around us, and endorphin-releasing exercise for a healthier feeling inside and out.

Find a Festival

Richmond is world-famous for its many arts, food, and music festivals. While it’s easy to feel like there isn’t the time when all of the wedding details are weighing heavily on your mind, it only takes a few hours of distraction to “reset” your attitude and allow you to let off some steam.

Plan a Night Out

When was the last time you got together with the girls for dinner at your favorite restaurant, or gathered the guys at a local sports bar or pub and just relaxed? It’s common for couples to go weeks, even months without checking in with friends outside of the wedding party. A night out could be just the break you need to start planning afresh in the morning.

Do a Good Deed

One of the best ways to restore personal balance and feel closer to others is to perform some kind of service together. Help a local school revive its gardens in the spring, participate in a local river clean up, or offer to prepare meals for an underserved population at your house of worship. Maybe commit acts of random kindness – buy a stranger’s coffee, finish paying someone’s layaway account, or help an elderly lady cross the street. Giving to others has a unique way of healing one’s soul – and putting stress into a perspective that makes it feel manageable again.

Take a Weekend Escape

When stress hits an all-time high, it may be time for a weekend escape. A ski weekend, spa trip, or short cruise to nowhere is enough time for an escape, usually without breaking the bank. Head to the beach for some romantic walks on the shore, or check into a historic Bed and Breakfast for personal service, gourmet breakfasts, and local access to all of the best that a region has to offer.

More important than how you find peace is accepting that wedding planning and stress go hand-in-hand. De-stressing helps restore humor and unity and allows you to enjoy what’s most important...a joyous wedding day!

Paula Ramirez is the Proprietor of Historic Mankin Mansion Wedding & Event Estate. Paula and her husband Martin have lovingly restored this National Landmark to its original grandeur and are honored to share the treasured estate for events. Paula, Martin, and the Mansion have been featured in Forbes, Orbitz, Travel Channel, MSNBC, Martha Stewart Weddings, Oprah Magazine, Huffington Post, New York Times, and Apple TV.

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CASTLE GLEN WINERY

Vineyard & Inn Wedding Package

Use of the property from 11 AM - 12 PM (the following day)

Use of the entire luxury vacation house

(Comfortable for up to 12 overnight guests)

Includes pool, hot tub, private bridal suite, and groom's lounge

Castle Glen Winery full

Tables, chairs, white linens

Set-up and breakdown

(4) Four complimentary wine tastings

10% discount on all wine

Pricing Available Upon Request

Preferred Vendor List Available

Special Pricing Available for Friday - Sunday Bookings

The Inn Rental: Additional nights available for special pricing

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THINGS TO CONSIDER Before TOURING A VENUE

By Kim Moody

1. IS IT WITHIN YOUR BUDGET?

This is the single most critical factor to think about before touring. If it’s out of reach financially, you shouldn’t get hopes up or begin the wedding by causing a family conflict. Connect with potential venues on your favorites list and speak openly with the wedding experts of those venues. They will value honesty and how respectful you are to be cognizant that the budget may not be able to accommodate the needs at their property. Honesty is always the best policy. Venues are generally 12-25% of the budget depending on what they include with their rentals.

2. DOES THE VENUE SET THE TONE FOR THE TYPE OF EVENT YOU ARE PLANNING TO HOST? The style of the property chosen for the celebration will intentionally lay the groundwork for the backdrop of the experiences.

3.

Does it fit the theme or the vibe you are hoping for guests to experience? Choose a venue that speaks to what your personal preferences are.

HOW MANY VENUES DO YOU WANT TO SPEND THE DAY IN? Traditionally, it used to be common to have a ceremony venue separate than a celebration/reception venue. But that’s not the case anymore. What works best with your vision and the type of event you want to host? Are you planning to get ready at the ceremony venue? What is the travel time between each of these locations? It’s important to map out the wedding day timeline and calculate distance and time needed for travel. Ultimately, photography and videography vendors will be compensated to travel to multiple locations. Contemplate when family formal group pictures will be

taken since transportation is often provided. This will also increase logistical time needed.

4. ARE YOU HOPING FOR THE CEREMONY, COCKTAIL HOUR, DINNER, AND DANCING AT ONE LOCATION? If so, how important is it that those spaces are unique? What is the weather contingency plan in the case of rain, snow, or extreme temperatures?

5. DOES THE VENUE PROVIDE ADEQUATE GETTING READY SPACES FOR BOTH SIDES OF THE WEDDING PARTY? Think about the size of your wedding party and the amount of space and restrooms those individuals will need. Are showers available? Is there space for hair and makeup to be done on site? What amenities are available to the wedding party?

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Phew

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6. IS THERE SPACE FOR FAMILIES TO GET DRESSED? Will it feel like you still have your own space even if they are on site? Can they gather with their closest support system in their own spaces while you do the same in yours? Are there quiet and comfortable areas for them to sit and prepare for the emotional rollercoaster of their children getting married?

9.

WHAT IS THE MAX GUEST CAPACITY?

Selecting the right sized property should allow easy adjustments in the case of inclement weather. Capacity limitations should be measured before touring facilities. Create a guest list and assume you will have 80% +/accepted RSVP’s. Look for a location that comfortably holds at least this number of people. Speak with the venue prior to touring because often the advertised or posted capacities are not the same as what is most comfortable.

10. NOISE ORDINANCES ARE IMPORTANT TO ASK ABOUT BEFORE TOURING. Most often they are set by local municipalities, not the venue themselves. If the goal is to dance until 3am, connect with the venue contacts at your top locations and find out the rules that govern their locations.

7. ARE THE “GETTING READY” SPACES ATTRACTIVE FOR PHOTOS OR WILL YOU HAVE TO LEAVE THOSE AREAS TO BE PHOTOGRAPHED? You will be investing in photographs and video, so charming backdrops could be very important to the wedding album.

8. HOW EARLY CAN YOU SETUP? Some properties allow for as little as one hour prior to event start time for setting up. Don’t forget deliveries, floral installations, lighting and production needs, band soundchecks, and catering preparation. The setup of bars alone and the icing of beverages can easily take a couple of hours. Inquire with the venue about early setup options once you understand what is included as part of a standard rental package.

11. WEATHER CONTINGENCIES ARE ONE OF THE LEAST ROMANTIC CONSIDERATIONS OF CHOOSING WEDDING AND RECEPTION VENUES. But for the event to run smoothly, it’s a critical part of the process. Hopefully rain, sleet, snow, hurricane, extreme heat, or other inclement weather will not ruin the long-anticipated day, but if it’s in the forecast, you will certainly be glad you made that consideration prior to booking. How much indoor (conditioned space) does the venue have? What are outdoor covered options? (Tents, pavilions, etc.) With rain plan options, are additional restrooms or lighting needed? Will fans, AC units, heaters, tent sidewalls, etc. be needed? If the rain plan is a tent, what about flooring? Is the rain going to puddle under the tent during a thunderstorm? How close can buses or transportation get to the ceremony and reception sites for drop off and pickups in inclement weather?

12.. TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS. Once you’ve toured a few properties, compared the pros and cons, and make sure the top choice fits the wedding day vision, listen to yourself! It’s just like shopping for a wedding gown, sometimes you just “know”.

Choosing a venue sets the tone for so much of the overall event experience. It sets the visual style and formality and sets the backdrop for your getting ready photos. It may also dictate some vendor selections. Try to be as contemplative as possible during the information gathering stages. Be diligent in touring top choices. Be transparent with the venue and ultimately lead with your heart. And most of all, enjoy the journey!

Kim Moody is a Proprietress and Director of Events at The Estate At River Run, the area’s newest luxury venue in Goochland. Kim is also the Lead Wedding Planner at the award-winning Kim Moody Design™, a multi-planner design studio (since 2004!) that offers services exclusively to clients at The Estate at River Run. Learn more at TheEstateAtRiverRun.com

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REMEMBER

DESERVES A LOCATION

YOU’LL NEVER

THE DAY YOU’LL ALWAYS 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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4 WAYS TO ACCOMPLISH YOUR Quintessential RICHMOND WEDDING

By Emily Mack

Richmond, Virginia is the perfect city for a wedding with elevated southern charm. Whatever your vibe, this eclectic city is filled with endless places to dine, drink, and explore. The contrast between the lush nature trails by the river, historic buildings scattered throughout, and the high rises downtown provide an atmosphere that is a hot spot for couples to get hitched!

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 mouth-watering inspiration along the way!

wedding countdown

10-12 MONTHS

Nail down your caterer

Stephanie Jenkins Photography

Whether you are going for a contemporary or artsy feel, or looking to have a historic, sophisticated, classic Richmond ambiance, there are so many ways to elevate the guest experience and provide an evening for the ages, while incorporating the unique charm of our beloved “River City.”

1. Venue: First things first, you’ll need to choose a venue. Picking the venue is inevitably one of the most important parts of planning the wedding. There are so many things to consider making sure you are getting the most bang for your buck while still getting the picturesque atmosphere that will be the setting of this incredible memory.

If envisioning a contemporary setting with artsy components, there are venues throughout the city with space to host larger weddings. There are also smaller galleries to consider if you are on a budget or have a low guest count.

If you are picturing a historic building, there are countless options throughout RVA. Many of these offer a beautiful backdrop and need minimal décor. You can just utilize the existing beauty of the space.

What does the venue offer other than the space itself? Don’t forget to ask about table and chair rentals, planning services, and rooms for you and your crew to get ready. The fewer vendors to coordinate, the better!

RW TIP: Visit RichmondWeddings.com to find your perfect venue. Use the venue filter tool to narrow down choices based on your style!

2. Food: Another key part of wedding planning is figuring out what food and service style you are envisioning. There are so many ways to serve southern staplescomfort food to some and an introduction to southern cuisine for others.

For traditional dinner service, imagine a preset vineyard salad with a choice entrée of fish, chicken, beef, or a vegan option. For larger guest counts and a more casual cocktail style of food service, consider multiple interactive chef stations with southern staples such as a mac and cheese toppings bar, shrimp and grits bar, slider station, or a variety of other fun tapas plates.

Everybody loves an edible party favor. Think about sending your guests home with a slice of pie or a baggie of popcorn. All these options are also excellent for a late-night snack!

3. Beverages:

Nothing gets the good times rolling quite like a good drink. Between the countless local craft beers and endless cocktail recipe options, this decision is one where you can’t go wrong.

Richmond is known for its rapidly growing collection of craft breweries, so it is fitting to serve local brews to your guests visiting from far and wide. Give them a taste of RVA with fan favorites like Hardywood’s Great Return and Triple Crossing’s Falcon Smash.

Specialty cocktails are an excellent way to customize the bar and add some personality. After all, nothing feels more quintessential Richmond than sipping on an Old Fashioned and admiring the skyline from a rooftop bar.

There are adorable beverage service carts available that are sure to be a crowd pleaser. Also consider featuring a local spirit like Cirrus Vodka or Belle Isle Moonshine. For nonalcoholic options, sweet tea and lemonade are perfect pairings for any event with a southern twist!

4. Rentals & décor:

There are endless ways to style the wedding and hiring an experienced event designer is the key to turning your vision into a reality. Planners work with vendors like rental companies and florists to help source everything needed to achieve your vision.

Think outside of the norm and incorporate your love for Richmond in sweet little nods to your favorite city. Instead of using table numbers, label tables with neighborhood, street names, or landmarks that are sentimental to you and your partner. You can also spruce up the bar with a watercolor painting of an iconic Richmond landscape. Florists can enhance any space, old or new, by bringing in life and color for every occasion. Florals can complement the stunning architecture of the venue without overshadowing it. We are so lucky to have so many talented florists in Richmond!

For tables, chairs, linen, glassware, and more, local rental companies have it all and then some. They can essentially turn any area into a wedding venue! Some of the most intimate, homey, yet elevated parties happen in the backyard of a family home.

Emily Mack is an Event Producer at Mosaic Catering + Events, providing top tier catering expertise and thoughtful event design since 2021. Mosaic has been serving Richmond since 1995 for weddings, cocktail parties, corporate receptions, fundraiser galas, birthday parties, and everything in between. Contact Emily from Mosaic for everything out of the ordinary!

MJ Mendoza Photography

Kylie Hinson Photography

Stephanie Jenkins Photography

Tips for Memorable Catering

By Alyssa Nichols

When choosing a caterer, you’re probably going to be focused on a couple key factors; menu for the main meal and staffing to set up, serve and clean. However, they can provide so much more! Here are just some of the ways a caterer can help add special touches to the guest experience.

1. Breakfast, Lunch or Snacks for the Wedding Party:

A caterer can deliver breakfast, lunch, and/or snacks for you and the wedding party while you’re getting ready. It’s one less detail to worry about on the busy day, and close friends and family can spend as many of those precious moments with you as possible instead of running out to find a meal for everyone. Not to mention it’s easy to forget to eat when you have the pre-wedding butterflies!

2. Pre-Ceremony Drinks and Snacks:

You don’t have to wait until after “I Do” for the party to start! Perhaps some of the guests will be arriving early and you’d like them to have something to munch on while they wait to be seated, or if having an outdoor summer ceremony, consider providing beverages to quench their thirst. Have the guests greeted with a glass of sparkling wine as they get ready to celebrate your love story.

3. Signature Cocktails:

Often, the caterer will be overseeing the bar. Offering a signature cocktail (or 3!) helps cut down on lines at the bar. A caterer can help come up with a crowd-pleasing signature cocktail or mocktail that is both seasonal and personal.

4. Make Sure the Happy Couple is Fed:

Between posing for photos and spending time with each guest, it can be hard finding time to enjoy cocktail hour appetizers or even the main meal at the reception. Ask the caterer to set aside cocktail hour snacks, get you that signature cocktail and slice of cake you were looking forward to, or even pack to-go boxes to enjoy after the reception.

5. Create Custom Menu Items:

When choosing a caterer, they’ll provide menus of offerings depending on chosen service style. However, in the industry we recognize that every couple and event is different. Maybe you’d like to pay homage to a dish you had on your first date; or, you’d like to add a spicy sauce with a certain hors d’oeuvre to kick it up a notch. Don’t be shy, ask about adding personal touches to the menu!

6. Spruce

Up the Reception with Food Presentation:

It’s obvious that details like rentals, decor, and florals are a big part of creating a beautiful reception. Attractive food presentation is another part of creating a memorable experience for guests. Passed appetizers can be served on individual spoons or in mini bowls for a fun bite. Caterers can incorporate flowers as garnishes on a display or can set up an eye-popping candy bar for dessert with sweets in your colors.

7. Partner with Other Vendors:

It’s always possible that you’re looking for something special that the caterer doesn’t provide. Not to fret! If you’re getting a cake from a local bakery, they’ll make sure it’s properly stored and displayed before it’s time to cut and serve to guests. Caterers will work with the venue, planner or day-of coordinator, and any other vendors to ensure every detail is taken care of - and probably feed them too!

Alyssa Nichols is a wedding and events coordinator for Everyday Gourmet, a fullservice catering company based in Richmond and serving Central Virginia. Reach out to them to get your quote today! egourmetrva.com

Stephanie Jenkins Photography

The “To Do’s” Before the “I Do’s”

Rentals – The Forgotten Checklist

By The Sales Team at Party Perfect

Depending on where your reception is taking place, rentals may play an integral part in making sure you and your guests have a fantastic experience. Plates, glassware, utensils, tables, and chairs are among the most common items needed, but there are several other things to consider when making sure nothing is forgotten, especially if you are renting a tent. Ask yourself these questions and get your vendors involved to make sure everything is covered.

J. Cameron Photography

rentals

You’ve booked your venue, now it’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!

wedding countdown

4-6 MONTHS

Carefully choose & reserve rental items

Kylie Hinson Photography

❑ Do you need electrical power?

If you are having a beautiful outdoor wedding under a tent, you will likely need additional power sources. Many vendors will require it.

*TIP – Look into generator rentals.

❑ Do you have enough catering equipment?

Check with your venue, caterer, or food provider to see what is included. You can always rent or buy additional items such as tables, linens, chafing dishes, serving utensils, beverage items, etc.

*TIP – Prepare for more than you think you need.

❑ Water and trash – Did you remember these essentials?

Do you have access to either of these onsite or by your caterer/ bartender? If not, then you can rent both!

*TIP – Look into water station rentals and trash bins with extra liners.

❑ When you got to go, you got to go! Where is the restroom?

Do you have access to restrooms, or do you need additional restroom facilities?

*TIP – Consider portable restroom trailers for outdoor weddings. They’re actually very nice!

❑ Where will everyone park?

Make sure there is ample parking for all guests.

*TIP – Do you need additional lighting for the parking lot? Rental companies can help!

There are so many beautiful and affordable tent rental styles to choose from these days. Here are a few questions to answer and considerations to make:

❑ If you are renting a tent, is the ground primarily a firm flat area?

❑ Is the location easily accessible for delivery and pickup with a large truck?

❑ When can the rental company deliver and install as well as pick up and break down?

❑ Will a venue contact, or coordinator be onsite during setup and breakdown?

❑ Do you need a catering/food prep tent?

❑ Do you have any gas, water, or sewer lines in the yard? Make sure to call the utility company if you are at a private residence.

❑ Do you have guests with special accommodations attending your wedding?

Take into consideration your guests with dietary restrictions, handicapped accommodations, or even elderly family members.

*TIP – Talk to your food provider, pay attention to parking and terrain the venue, and provide your loved ones with a comfortable chair to enjoy the evening with you.

❑ Do you need a permit? Make sure you have them for ABC and any tents over 900 sq. ft.

We know that navigating your way through rentals can be a daunting task, but local rental agents are here to help! Reach out to one today and let them guide you through the process so you can focus other aspects of the planning.

Party Perfect has been specializing in Wedding and Event Rentals since 1996. Our Sales Consultants and Penguin Team are here to help you check off every box on your Wedding List. Contact us to book a Showroom Consultation and don’t forget to visit our online Rental Catalog at www.partyperfect.com!

MJ Mendoza Photography

Stephanie Jenkins Photography

With over 50 years combined experience in the wedding and event industry, our rental consultants, warehouse, production, and delivery team will work with you from start to finish making your wedding experience a seamless transition from party planning to PARTY PERFECT!

We carry everything from tents, lighting, staging, dance floors, tables, chairs, throne chairs, linens, china, glassware, flatware & more - all of your wedding rental needs in one place! Contact one of our consultants to schedule a "play date" in our beautiful showroom, so you can see all that we have to offer for your big day! We are conveniently located in Richmond just off I-64.

Photo by: Arli Quinn Photography

Photo by: Taylor Main Photography

Photo by: Michael & Laura Photography

Photo by: Party Perfect

Photo: Taken by Taylor

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.

wedding countdown

10-12 MONTHS

Choose wedding party attire

Kylie Hinson Photography

5 Things You Need to Know Before Gown Shopping

By Rachel Moore

Wedding gown shopping is one of the most exciting steps of the planning process. However, it can also be one of the most stressful. Don’t get so overwhelmed that you turn into the dreaded “bridezilla”. So, how in the world do we make it easier? The following list includes some tips to think about before the dress appointment.

1. Don’t be afraid to be unique.

The year 2022 is allowing people to feel more comfortable expressing themselves, but it can still be hard to step out of the social norm. You don’t have to wear a pure white ball gown, stilettos or a veil to be considered bridal appropriate. It’s your wedding! You deserve to feel beautiful, comfortable, and confident. Anybody who thinks otherwise can get a quick uninvited email straight to their inbox. Pick the short gown or the longer one. Choose a white gown, a black one, or both! Ditch the dress and choose a jumpsuit. Whatever makes you who you are should be reflected in how you feel in your wedding attire.

Stephanie Jenkins Photography

2. Bring the RIGHT people.

We all want our “people” - aka support systems - with us when deciding on our dream gown (excluding those one or two people we are forced to invite). However, not everybody has the same opinion. Exercise crowd control by keeping it small and aim for about 2-4 trusted guests. The other lovely (you can define what that means) family and friends that you’d like to invite or not invite but feel like you should, can still feel a part of the special moment by getting pictures after the appointment. Gown shopping is STRESSFUL so don’t make it harder by adding 10 extra opinions from those who have various style preferences that may not align with yours.

3. Trust your gut.

You are right one hundred percent of the time when it comes to wedding gown shopping. How do I know? Because everything is completely up to you! The family and friends brought along are more than welcome to add their input. However, you are the only person that knows if you can see yourself walking down the aisle in that gown. You are the only person that knows a certain veil could get in the way, so you opt for a headpiece. You are

the only person who knows heels are not an option and sneakers are preferred. Listen to the opinions of loved ones, but don’t let them overpower yours. They are there to share in YOUR experience for this big day but not add to the stress or make it their own.

4. You might surprise yourself.

Let the stylists get to know you. Your Pinterest board could be a guide but stay open to other possibilities. It’s like buying clothes at a store, just a whole lot more fun; some things look phenomenal on the mannequin but may not be a good fit. (Even if you originally thought they were going to look perfect!) Change is okay. If buying a ballgown was originally out of the question and you end up falling in love – go for it! Just

because your mind was made up does not mean there's no room for change.

5. Do some homework.

This could sound contradictory, but hear us out. Do some research. We’re not saying to know everything you want when going in, but if you have favorite designers, use the designers’ store locator to find boutiques nearby that carry their line. If you prefer a more intimate experience, find salons that offer private or one-on-one appointments where you have a personal stylist. If you feel more confident in shapewear and makeup, come ready! Set yourself up for success and have fun because this day is all about you in the end!

J. Cameron Photography

Sandy Swagger Jones Photography

Wedding Jewelry TRENDS

By Hannah Craft

Pampas grass or white roses? Cowboy boots or high heels? Diamonds or pearls? Depending on your bridal style, you may want a different jewelry look for your big day! The following sets can be mixed and matched any way you like.

The BOHO BRIDE

The Boho Bride has a quirky twist on tradition, leaning towards nature-inspired accents and earthy tones. These rose gold pieces give the Boho Bride the earthy tone she wants, while the circle stud earrings are a nod towards her quirkiness. The floral bypass ring offers the nature-inspired accents trending for the Boho Bride, and the bangle anchors the look with a mixture of round cut diamonds and rose gold accents.

The WESTERN BRIDE

The Western Bride loves her cowboy boots and a wide-brimmed hat, so these pieces were chosen to accent these accessories. The stationary necklace can be worn long or layered and pairs perfectly with the matching bracelet. The gemstone stud earrings are the showstopper of this look, with 15.20 carats of sky blue and London blue topaz stones and 0.16 carats of diamonds.

The CLASSIC BRIDE

The Classic Bride loves a traditional look and thinks “less is more” is a mantra to live by. The eighteen-inch stationary diamond and pearl necklace is simple and classic and pairs beautifully with the flex bangle with ovalcut diamond accents. The hoops complete the look with a modern twist on the classic pearl earring.

The MODERN ELEGANCE BRIDE

The Modern Elegance Bride will take glam to the next level with this graduated diamond riviera necklace and a traditional tennis bracelet. The circular stud earrings are a step back from what this bride might usually choose, but it gives the spotlight to the stunning riviera necklace.

The VINTAGE BRIDE

THE VINTAGE BRIDE LOVES EVERYTHING THAT IS A nod to the past, especially the vibrance of blue sapphires. This bride will look like royalty in this blue sapphire pendant with a scalloped diamond halo which is the perfect match to the blue sapphire studs, also with scalloped halos. Finish off the look with a blue sapphire and diamond tennis bracelet.

Hannah Craft is a Brand Ambassador for Diamonds Direct, one of America's largest and most successful jewelry companies. The company was founded in 1995 and now has 26 retail locations. They are a direct-to-consumer destination retailer headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. Diamonds Direct backs their products with industry-leading guarantees and warranties, including their signature 110% lifetime guarantee. DiamondsDirect.com

photography & videography

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. It’s important to find one you connect with to capture your special day, and luckily we have plenty to choose from!

When it comes to documenting your special day, having a videographer is of utmost importance. Trust us, there’s nothing like reliving those precious moments you shared with your other half and the loved ones who were there to celebrate with you.

wedding countdown

10-12 MONTHS

Interview & choose a photographer

2-4 MONTHS

Schedule your bridal portrait session

Phew Shots Photography

10 QUESTIONS to Ask Your Photographer

By Kylie Hinson

Once the cake is sliced, the champagne is popped, and the toasts are shared, the wedding photos are one of the only keepsakes after your special day. Selecting the right photographer to document your love story is a crucial decision in the planning process!

Believe it or not, you will spend more time with your photographer on the wedding day than with your spouse! Having a phone or in-person interview before signing the contract is a great way to make sure you find someone you love and will be a good fit for the wedding.

Here are 10 questions to ask the photographer before booking:

1. How many weddings have you photographed as a lead photographer?

When it comes to wedding photography, certain skills and knowledge can only be learned through practice and time. Finding a photographer who has an experience level you are comfortable with is very important.

Some photographers might only have second shooter experience. While this is not a deal breaker, it could influence your decision depending on the style and skill you desire in a potential photographer.

2.What is your working style on the wedding day?

You might be looking for someone direct who will take charge or someone who is more laid back and go with the flow. Ask them about their working style to determine if they are a good match for your needs and personality.

3. How would you describ e your photo editing style?

Asking the photographer to describe their editing style will help to determine if they are the right fit. Is their style light and airy, dark and moody, true to color, or something else? If wanting a specific editing style, make sure to find a photographer who edits in that style so that you don’t end up disappointed with the final gallery of images.

4.Do you have a second photographer with you?

Second shooters are very helpful throughout the wedding day. Not only will you get more images, but a second shooter also brings a different creative eye and artistic style to the photographs. While the main photographer is photographing you, the second photographer will be with your partner capturing images at the same time, allowing for every detail of the day to be covered.

5. Does an engagement session come with the package?

Engagement sessions are a great way to meet the photographer in person, make sure you connect with them, and learn some wedding day poses. Even if you have already had an engagement session with someone else, doing a session with your potential wedding photographer will ensure that there are no surprises after the wedding as to the type of images you will receive or the customer service experience they provide.

Kylie Hinson Photography

6. Can I see a few full galleries of recent weddings?

While looking at their social media pages will give a brief taste of their work, viewing a full gallery will provide a more detailed look into the photographer’s ability and style. Ask them for a gallery that matches your venue so you can see their skill level with various lighting situations.

7. What is the backup plan in case of an emergency where you are unable to photograph our wedding?

Life is unpredictable and sometimes unfortunately things go wrong. If the worst should happen and the photographer is unable to attend, knowing their backup plan can alleviate a lot of unnecessary stress on your wedding day.

8. Do you carry back up equipment?

Equipment is never 100% reliable. Having a photographer that has a backup camera, multiple lenses, and extra equipment will help relieve some stress in case the worse happens and equipment stops working. Also, make sure to ask if their second shooter (if they include one) has backup equipment as well.

9. Can you provide any references or client testimonials?

Asking for references or reviews from previous clients can give an insight into how your experience will go. A photographer can take the most amazing images, but if their customer service experience is bad, you might have a tough time on your wedding day.

10. Are you licensed and insured?

Some venues might require that your vendors are licensed and insured. Make sure to ask your photographer if they carry liability insurance, which is important in the event of injuries or property damage.

Kylie Hinson is an internationally published wedding and family photographer who specializes in turning moments into memories. Kylie’s philosophy is pretty simple: tell the most amazing stories through photographs that capture true love, real emotions and beautiful moments. To learn more about her photography services please visit, www.kyliehinson.com

Kylie Hinson Photography

Bjackson Photography

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. We’ve gathered tips for choosing the best flowers for your wedding and the professionals to bring your ideas to life!

wedding countdown

10-12 MONTHS

Find the perfect florist

SP EC TACU LA R C OLOR S : Elevating Your Wedding Palette

By Tommy Waters

Five easy ways to incorporate your colors into the wedding reception:

1. Flowers

With the help of an educated florist, it’s super easy to choose a flower that will accentuate the colors you have chosen for your wedding day.

PRO TIP: Wedding florists are extremely visual. Instead of saying you have chosen blue, green, and silver as the color theme, consider providing a palette so they can understand your vision.

2. Lighting

Lighting is so “on trend” right now! And it’s a great way to apply colors to walls, ceilings, and floors for your chosen reception venue. Some of the new lights can do upwards of 200+ colors so choosing the right one should be easy! Be sure to hire someone that knows all the nuances of each venue.

3. Linens

Tablecloths, napkins, chair covers, runners, and overlays. With linens, there are quite a few ways to present your colors that are centered around guest tables and chairs. Typically, a planner and venue can help decide on the perfect combination of colored linens for the reception.

PRO TIP: Choosing that perfect red satin napkin could be an easy choice! But consider this: if you have 100 guests, there will be 100 red satin napkins in the reception setup. If you also have red lighting, red runners, and red florals…you run the chance on overindulging with one color. Using whites, ivories, and other neutral colors for tablecloths with smaller color accents keeps guest tables beautiful and timeless.

4. Table Numbers

Gone are the days of being forced to use the old black and white table numbers! You can easily find hundreds of ways to number guest tables using the chosen color scheme. A simple search on Pinterest will produce lots of options to choose from.

PRO TIP: If you have a favorite table number option, and it’s not very big, consider raising the number higher making it easier to see.

5. China Patterns and Chargers

Most china patterns will come in a beautiful ivory or white and will look good on the tables. You can choose a colored charger to go under the first course’s plate to add a little pop of color.

PRO TIP: Chargers can be clear with colored beading around the edge providing just a small bit of color, or they can be solid gold, silver, or red. Remember, a small colored item when used for a lot of guests in one room may produce more of that color then you anticipated. Always ask your planner or venue to provide a table “mockup” so you can see exactly what it will look like.

So, there you have it, 5 easy ways to incorporate your color scheme! If this starts to stress you out, just remember to keep it simple. Stick with 2-5 colors using them consistently and smartly. This will create a seamless color pattern throughout the day and will make sure your wedding day images are amazing!

Thomas (everyone calls him Tommy) Waters is 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.

J. Cameron Photography

Zeph Colombatto Photography

Do We Tip Our Wedding Vendors?

As the wedding day approaches, you may be asking yourself if it is appropriate to tip wedding vendors. After fine-tuning the budget down to the penny, tipping might not have been on the radar. For some vendors tipping is optional, some expect it, and others already have it built into their contracts.

With so much information, it can be quite confusing. While still in the planning phase, let us guide you through this process so you can adjust where you see fit. Our tipping guide will help with who, how and when.

J. Cameron Photography

J. Camerons Photography

music

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!

wedding countdown

10-12 MONTHS

Interview & choose DJ and/or Band

4-6 MONTHS

Select ceremony musicians

Meet with your DJ about music for your wedding dinner & reception

Stephanie Jenkins Photography

Officiant optional

Clergy – donation to the church and $50-100 tip if they can accept it after the ceremony Non-clergy – $50-100 to be given after the ceremony

Planner optional

10-20% of fee or a gift at the end of the night or after the honeymoon

Delivery/setup staff at the venue expected

$10+ per person

Venue coordinator (if there is one) expected (unless included in fee)

$100-$500

HAVE a plan: Assign someone to distribute tips at the end of the night.

Caterer (if outside company)

$100 each person OR set total amount to be split amongst servers/bartenders

Catering (if part of the venue/restaurant)

Usually built into invoice.

Service charge is NOT gratuity.

Waitstaff

$15-$30+ per person

NOTE: Tipping guides found online read, “You do not need to tip a business owner”. However, something to keep in mind in Richmond, VA is that most wedding vendors ARE business owners as well as service providers. Our wonderful local wedding community is made up of small businesses. As an integral part of your most special day, tips are welcome by all. What better way to say how much you appreciate them?

Bartending expected (unless included in fee)

10-15% of pre-tax bill or $20+ per person. Make sure they do NOT have tip jar out if you are covering it. Bartending staff is paid differently than restaurant staff, so tips are mostly covered.

Rentals expected for delivery/ setup staff

$20-$50 per person depending on how much stuff

Apparel optional

$25-$50 per attendant

Alterations recommended

$15-$30 at the time of service

Photography optional

$75-$200 at the end of the night

Photography assistant optional

$40-$100 at the end of the night

Videography optional

$100+ at the end of the night

Flowers not typical DJ optional

$50-$150 at the end of the night

Ceremony Musicians optional

$25-$50 per person after the ceremony Band

$25-$35 per musician at the end of night

Invitations not typical

Stephanie Jenkins Photography

Need vendor gift ideas?

Some popular items are a bottle of wine or a gift card to Amazon or Target or one to your favorite local restaurants or shops.

Hair/Makeup expected

Cakes/Sweets not typical

Honeymoon not typical

DOUBLE check contracts: See if gratuity is built in

Transportation/ Drivers expected if not included in contract. Double check!

15-20% of pre tax bill after service is complete.

Valet

$1-$2 per car. Let your attendants know you have taken care of the tip

At the end of the day, one of the very best tips you can give that costs nothing is leaving your vendor a glowing review. You have a unique opportunity to help other couples while they are researching which vendor is right for them. The most popular review sites are Google, Facebook and of course on the RichmondWeddings.com website. Any and all vendors appreciate a review. Something else you may consider is when purchasing invitations, include extra Thank You cards to send a special note to your vendors.

Don’t Forget to Feed Your Vendors!

“Feeding your vendors a hot meal during your wedding weekend is not only an etiquette courtesy, it’s really a requirement if you want them to give their all. Vendors rarely have time to stop to eat, but if they can have a 5-10 minute break for some nourishment, that will really enable them to give their dedicated energy to your celebration!”

–Kim Moody with Kim Moody Design

Stephanie Jenkins Photography

June 5, 2021

&5JAKE STELLA

RW MEMBERS Consultant/Catering/Lighting: Mosaic Catering + Events | Reception Site Flowers: Flowers Make Scents | Accommodations:

Quirk Hotel

ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Zeph Colombatto | Ceremony/Reception Site: Private Residence | Rehearsal Dinner: Little Nickel |

Videography: Altamira Weddings | Officiant: Michael Conte | Music: Rei Alvarez, Bio Ritmo | Gown/Veil: Custom designed by Fariba Bridal | Shoes: The Attico, Jimmy Choo | Accessories: Vintage Hairpiece and Cufflinks from Halycon Vintage | Hair/Makeup: Ken Langston from Jak Salon |

Jeweler: Lustre by Adolf, Nine Roses | Formalwear: Tom James Company | Stationery: Designed by Stella’s brother, Constantine Giavos, printed by Paper Plus | Calligraphy: Mary Sue Sanderlin | Bouquet and Ceremony Flowers: Poppy and Birch | Rentals: Classic Party Rentals of Virginia |

Restroom Trailers: Edmunds Waste Removal | DJ: Reid Waters | Food Truck: FiftyOne Pizza | Cake: Fat Rabbit | Greek Sweets: grandmother Stella Dikos | Favors: Na Nin Studio | Transportation: RVA TukTuk

Stella and Jake have been through everything, from acquaintances in middle school to close friends in high school, to sweethearts in college. While Covid was shutting down the world, Jake asked for Stella to spend forever with him with a custom ring that he designed! “We got out of sweats for the first time in months,” as Stella describes “for a delicious meal of homemade fried chicken and wine, which ended up being the perfect proposal.”

The pair said their I do’s on a hot summer day in June at her parents’ home. Guests were shuttled in and greeted with a welcome drink from the “Defender Bar.” The cocktail hour was poolside before and after the ceremony and included a few food stations with oysters, a whole roasted pig, and a few other snacks! “Rei Alvarez from Bio Ritmo did an all-Greek vinyl set during cocktail hour and also the ceremony which was incredible.”

Of course, the food was one of the many focal points of their special day since Stella’s parents own many restaurants. “The Executive Chef at Stella’s Grocery, Loretta Montano, consulted with Mosaic to create our family style menu.”

The couple recalls, “We really wanted to transform the tent for the reception. I think we pulled it off thanks to Michael from Mosaic! Dinner and dancing below the tropical plant ceiling (designed by Flowers Make Scents) and disco balls were magical.”

Stella’s ‘something borrowed’ was in her gown. She worked with a designer to incorporate fabric from her mother’s gown into her own! This was the best unique touch.

After a few traditional Greek dances, the party got STARTED! Guests munched on late-night pizza and even jumped into the pool! Between the amazing food, music, and watching everybody have a good time, this was the perfect evening for Stella and Jake!

Guest Count: 325

&5 WILL JOLINDA

RW MEMBERS Rentals: Party Perfect | Accommodations: Omni Hotels and Resorts & Quirk Hotel | Reception Venue: Lavender Hill

ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Samia Minnicks Photography | Wedding Planner: Virginia Grace Event Management | Ceremony Site: Chimborazo Park | Florals: Sweet Magnolia Flowers & Gifts | Drone Videography: DroneWorxRVA | Wedding dress: Lex’s of Carytown | Custom

Dress Design + Alterations: Michael-Birch Pierce | Hair: Luminary Hair Company | Bathroom Trailer: Edmunds Waste Removal | Makeup: Makeup by Holly Beauty | Flower girl dress: Walmart | Dry cleaning: C. Alexander’s Cleaners | Transportation: Dabney’s Helping Hands | Catering: Big Herm’s Kitchen | Cake: Olivia Wilson | Vegan Pastries: Minglewood Bake Shop | Cupcakes: Manga’s Mini Treats | Cookies: Mariah Beazley |

Music: Billy Mickler | Stationery + Web Design: Shapes & Colors | Invitations + Sign Printing: Total Printing Company | Custom Balloons: Pencraft

+ Post | Jewelry: Sun & Selene | Officiant: Charlie Baber | Rehearsal Dinner: 23rd & Main

Who knew a baby shower could lead to finding your husband? Jolinda was chatting during a friend’s shower that led to a conversation about dating in Richmond. She was encouraged to meet some of the players on the Richmond Lions rugby team. Little did she know she would soon meet her forever person.

After good conversation and chance meetings over the next few years, the universe led them both out dancing one night. Jolinda made her move by asking Will to dance. Will’s moves sealed the deal, and he invited Jolinda to a potluck the following day! Love was in the air, and they kept up a weekly tradition consisting of dinner and Game of Thrones.

As a couple, they have learned to continue to learn and grow. They’ve watched hours of sports, traveled to many locations, moved in together, switched jobs, survived the pandemic, and so much more. All while supporting each other through injuries, sickness, pet catastrophes and the loss of loved ones. Their relationship allows for space to grow and explore things they enjoy on their own, but they always make time to connect.

On Jolinda’s birthday every year, they take a week-long vacation. In 2021 they took their yearly trip this time to St. Augustine, FL where Will was planning to ask her to spend forever with him. He returned from fishing, “put things into his fishing bag”, lay down beside her where she was journaling on the sand, and asked the big question!

Their magical day was spent in nature accompanied by close friends and family. Jolinda always dreamed of going the more non-traditional route when it came to her gown. She opted for a beautiful pale blue-gray gown that surely set the tone and feeling for the rest of the decor —-calm, celebratory, and unrushed.

The big day was filled with enjoying each other’s company, eating tasty food, and celebrating the start of forever. Jolinda recalls some of her favorite parts of the day, “Holding my Dad’s hand before we walked down the aisle. Looking into Will’s eyes and hearing the birds chirping while we said our vows, and watching our friends and family from all different parts of our lives connect and vibe at the reception.” The newlyweds were thankful for a top-notch local vendor team to help bring the day together.

Guest Count: 120 | Budget: $20,000

&5KEITH TATIANA

June 18, 2022

RW MEMBERS Catering: Mosaic Catering + Events

ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Jared Ladia | Ceremony/Reception Site: The Valentine Museum | Rehearsal Dinner: Final Gravity Brewing / El Guapo | Videography: RVA Productions | Wedding Consultant: Compass Rose Coordination | DJ: Art Immotions | Gown: David’s Bridal |

Alterations: AG Alterations | Shoes: Betsy Johnson Blue | Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie | Accessories: Olive and Piper | Hair: Rachel Z Riley |

Makeup: Cagney Shifflett | Jeweler: Munford Jewelers | Formalwear: Jos. A. Bank - Tie DAZI | Stationery: Minted | Flowers: Sneed’s Nursery |

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals of Virginia | Additional Entertainment: my toddler, Theodore | Cake: The Sugar Cave | Transportation: Richmond

Limousine | Accommodations: Delta Hotel

The love story of Tatiana and Keith blossomed during the pandemic. The pair met at a bar, went on their first date, and then the world shut down. They decided to face this difficult circumstance together, and it worked in their favor!

Keith and Tatiana took a trip to Boston for Keith’s national hurling tournament. The night before the big game, they went to dinner and walked around the harbor. After a dreamy night, these two went back to their Airbnb and Keith dropped to one knee! Just the two of them in one of their favorite cities made for the perfect ending to a great night.

As a wedding planner, Tatiana had a blast with the design and aesthetics! Her son, Theodore, walked her down the aisle. When Keith read his vows, he had written them not only for Tatiana, but also for Theodore. They both wanted the Hawaiian florals to be a focal point as a nod to Keith’s family since his father’s family is from there and his parents could not attend.

These two wanted their guests to have an AMAZING experience since most of them had to travel across the country. They hosted a welcome gathering at their favorite brewery along with their favorite food truck. The reception encouraged mingling with small bites and no formal sit-down meal. This was the perfect method to get guests to mingle and get out on the dance floor.

The night was sealed with a private last dance between the newlyweds. Tatiana couldn’t recommend this unique addition more. “It’s a chance to really soak in the day and have a few final moments together.”

A note from the happy couple —- hire a coordinator! No matter how organized you feel or what size your wedding is, hire one! While the planning process can be fun, and a coordinator takes a lot of the weight off, make sure you remember the reason for the occasion. You want your love and union represented and shown on your big day. Don’t lose sight of that!

Guest Count: 40 | Budget: $15,000

&5MARSHALL

August 6, 2022

RW MEMBERS Photography: Kristine DeWitt Photographers | Ceremony/Reception Site: Oakdale | Catering: A Sharper Palate Catering & Events |

Jeweler: Diamonds Direct | Restroom Trailers: Ashland Posh Potties | Photobooth: Social Party Booth | Accommodations: Courtyard & Residence Inn by Richmond Marriott Downtown

ADDITIONAL VENDORS Videography: White Tree Productions | Gown/Veil: Made with Love Bridal | Salon: Annalise Bridal Boutique | Shoes: Tory Burch | Bridesmaid Dresses: Show Me Your Mumu | Hair: Cam Carson & Co., Amanda Bohannon | Makeup: Cam Carson & Co., Cameron Carson

| Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse | Stationery: Hazelwood Paper Co. | Calligraphy: Monique Paper Art | Flowers: King William Florist | Lighting: Lighting Professors | DJ: Hunter Omohundro | Cake: The Cakery3 | Ice Cream Truck: Mister Softee RVA | Favors: Sycamore Studios Co, Leading Custom | Transportation: Richmond Limousine

Stephanie and Marshall went to high school together and reconnected in 2015 when Marshall returned to Richmond after going to college in Montana. The love continued to grow, and Marshall just knew this was the girl he was going to spend forever with. After choosing the ring, he wanted to wait for the perfect moment to pop the question.

On a date night at their favorite restaurant, Marshall decided to bring the ring in case an opportunity presented itself. Stephanie offered to take pictures of a couple at the end of a dock by the water, and Marshall leapt at the chance to propose! He asked the gentleman to take their photos as well, and after several normal pictures, Marshall dropped to one knee. Stephanie and the man taking photos were equally surprised!

Stephanie is very detail-oriented, so every single element was thought through and executed perfectly. From the classy barn to the delicious food, this was truly a wedding to remember.

Before the ceremony the two exchanged gifts: Stephanie gave Marshall cufflinks. One engraved with her handwriting and one with his late father’s writing she found on an old birthday card. Marshall gifted Stephanie a bouquet charm with a photo of Stephanie’s late grandparents that she was very close with. The ceremony was simple and quick, but still embraced unique touches.

When asked their favorite parts of the day, Stephanie shares “my favorite part was the introductions into the reception, I felt very relaxed and ready to get the party going!” Marshall recalls his favorite part of the day was “the ceremony, because he loved looking out into the crowd and seeing all of his favorite people.”

The couple’s best piece of advice? “Do not let any issues get you down because your wedding day is absolutely the best - being surrounded by all of your favorite people is the most amazing feeling.”

Stephanie and Marshall are now building their dream forever home and say, “It’s not easy, but if we can make it through this, we can make it through anything!”

Guest Count: 124 | Budget: $40-50,000

&5LIAM BAILEY

September 3, 2022

RW MEMBERS Ceremony/Reception Site/Accommodations: Linden Row Inn | Rentals/Lighting: Rent-E-Quip

ADDITIONAL VENDORS

Wedding Photography: Altamira Weddings | Rehearsal Dinner: Tazza Kitchen Scott’s Addition | Engagement Photography: Abby Bostian Visuals | Videography: Savannah Tilghman Photography | Wedding Day of Coordinator: Heather Lea Events | Officiant: Kyle Goodier

- Friend/Groomsmen | DJ: Black Tie Entertainment, Solomon Sadowsky | Gown/Accessories: BHLDN, Wtoo by Watters | Shoes: Target | Hair: Bobbie Pins, Robin Dehaven | Makeup: BRIDEface, Aaron Ellerbrock | Jeweler: Olive Ave Jewelry | Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie | Formalwear: Menguin | Stationery: Truly Engaging by Magnet Street | Flowers: Fleuressence Floral Design | Catering: Groovin’ Gourmets | Cake: Shyndigz |

Favors: SipHipHooray

Bailey and Liam: a modern-day love story. It all started with a ‘like’ on an incoming freshman Facebook page for Christopher Newport University. This turned into a follow on every other social media platform all within 5 minutes! Follows on social media were quickly followed by Liam asking for Bailey’s phone number. They talked every single day on the phone leading up to their meeting in person.

Liam was on the football team at CNU, which means he was also in charge of moving in freshmen on welcome week. Fate struck when he was randomly assigned to Bailey. He wasted no time asking her to be his girlfriend. Fate didn’t work out exactly how Liam had thought when her answer was no –they had just met! The rejection didn’t discourage Liam. He continued to ask, which lead to more noes from Bailey, until their first date at a Mexican restaurant where Liam received his long-awaited, “yes”!

Bailey and Liam share a love for Spain since that’s where they both studied abroad, so it only made sense that they took a trip back for their five-year anniversary. Halfway through the trip, they decided to spend an afternoon in Bailey’s favorite park. This was when she knew something was up — not just because it’s a beautiful spot, but also because Liam didn’t say a single word the entire day (the nerves were building up!). Once they arrived at the park, he hit record, propped his phone up on a half empty water bottle and asked the big question. She (thankfully) said “yes” the first time he asked! For the venue, the newly engaged wanted somewhere people could stay overnight and have the option to walk everywhere. They chose the historic, intimate Linden Row Inn! Bailey walked down the aisle to the theme song of one of their favorite rom com’s, About Time. Both ended up saying the exact same movie quote in their vows (total tear-jerking, giddy moment). In the charming courtyard with their guests, the newlyweds danced the night away to hit after hit. The couple recalls, “it was almost impossible to stop dancing because of how good the music was!”

Guest Count: 110 | Budget: $25-30,000

&5 SIDDARTH ANNIKA

September 4, 2022

RW MEMBERS Photography: J. Cameron Photography | Ceremony/Reception Site: Main Street Station | Planner: Simply Charmed Wedding and Event Planning | Ice: Mosaic Catering + Events | Accommodations: Omni Hotel Richmond Downtown

ADDITIONAL VENDORS Rehearsal Dinner: Bottoms Up Pizza | Officiant: Dmitri Johnson | Flowers/Accessories: Floraworx | DJ/Photobooth/Rentals: Astro Entertainment | Catering: Noorani Kabob House | Bar Service: Cocktails with Class | Cake: WPA Bakery | Gown: The One Bridal Salon | Alterations: Yady’s | Formalwear: The Black Tux | Hair: Honeycomb Collective | Makeup: Rikki Hightower | Dance Lessons: Charlottesville Ballroom

Some say French is the language of love, but for Annika & Sid, it’s Spanish! The two attended Maggie Walker Governor’s School together and one of their classes was AP Spanish Literature. Once Annika got her license, she would pick Sid up for school accompanied by many jam sessions and chit-chat. Sid felt their friendship blossom and was ready to ask her out. He gathered her favorite flowers and 6 large sketchbook papers consisting of poems, drawings, a Spanish Sonnet, and reasons why they would be the perfect couple. With these in hand at a local park, Sid asked Annika to be his girlfriend. Are y’all sobbing? We are too — This is love.

Years later, they moved into their first official shared apartment. Soon after, Sid grabbed their favorite meal (lamb biriyani and butter chicken), took Annika to the balcony, and popped the question. Of course, she said YES!

Their perfect venue was Main Street Station since it’s in the heart of Richmond and gave them freedom to pick their own vendors. This fun-loving couple wanted a colorful wedding. The colors were Peacock Blue and Orchid Smoke. Every piece of decor supported this palette. A guest commented that the wedding looked like a Wes Anderson Film. According to Annika, “That is the highest compliment we could have received!”

Annika nervously gave her vows first since Sid is a beautiful and deep heartfelt writer. The vows were Annika’s favorite. “Sid encapsulated our love for each other and our hopes for the future, it was beautiful.”

Annika and Sid wanted their food to leave a lasting impression, and spoiler alert, it did! In their words, “the food had to be top-notch. And it was.”

After the much-needed celebration, good food, and long-lasting memories, Annika & Sid took off for their honeymoon. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, it did! These newlyweds went on a five-week honeymoon to Istanbul, Kerala, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kauai!

Guest Count: 140 | Budget: $46,000

REBECCA

&5MIKE

October 15, 2022

RW MEMBERS Ceremony/Reception Site: Maymont/1000 Westover | Planner/Calligraphy: Our Curated Design | Rentals: Rent-E-Quip |

Accommodations: Quirk Hotel

ADDITIONAL VENDORS Wedding Photography: Michelle Chu Photography | Engagement Photography: Jordan Reece Photography | Rehearsal

Dinner: Max’s on Broad | Videography: Curtis Newkirk/New Visuals | Catering: Garnish | Officiant: Jonathan Goldwire | Gown/Veil/Alterations: Ava Laurenne Bride | Shoes: Forever Soles Pearl Flower | Bridesmaid Dresses: Baltic Born Clothing | Add’l Rentals: Paisley & Jade | Hair: The Hair Garden, Moira Rhodes | Makeup: Sparkle Makeup Artistry, Michelle Davis | Jeweler: Schwarzschild & Tiffany & Co. | Formalwear: Express |

Stationery: Minted | Flowers: M. Henry Designs | DJ: M2M Team, DJ Tim Pusha | Cake: Capitol Cakes Bakery

Rebecca and Mike’s love story proves that true love is still possible in the world of online dating. As they talked non-stop for a week after matching on Bumble, they quickly realized that they had a unique connection that was hard to come by. It wasn’t long before they decided to meet up for coffee, and from that moment on, they were inseparable.

Their relationship flourished over the years as they created cherished memories together. Mike knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Rebecca and planned a proposal that would take her breath away. He arranged a romantic vacation to Lake Tahoe and Sedona, envisioning a proposal atop a mountain overlooking a breathtaking view. During the Tahoe portion, Rebecca was not feeling well so he decided to hold off.

Despite the setback, Mike refused to let anything ruin their moment. He waited patiently until they arrived in Sedona, where he was finally able to propose as the sun set behind them. He recounted their most cherished memories before getting down on one knee and asking her to be his forever. Rebecca’s response was an ecstatic “yes!”

Planning a wedding was the next step in their journey, and they both agreed that Richmond, Virginia, was the perfect location. With the help of their talented planner, Jami with Our Curated Design, they designed a stunning romantic garden-inspired boho wedding at Maymont that left their guests in awe.

The day was filled with heartfelt vows and ideal autumn weather. Rebecca and Mike’s wedding truly reflected their love story. When asked their favorite parts of the day, Rebecca recalls, “Sitting at the reception and reflecting on the ceremony and the beautiful day we had, while also enjoying seeing all our loved ones happily chatting and enjoying the perfect alfresco dinner.” For Mike it was “Walking out for our first dance, seeing everyone together for the first time, and feeling the love in the room.”

Guest Count: 70 | Budget: $20-25,000

TRENDS IN Wedding Stationery

By Holly Peters

Wedding invitations and stationery are ever evolving. While the traditional wedding invitation will likely never go out of style, new applications, printing styles, colors, and embellishments are allowing couples to make their invitations unique to them, their lifestyle, and the look and feel they want to convey.

MJ Mendoza Photography

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!

wedding countdown

4-6 MONTHS

Talk with a stationer about invitations, programs & other paper goods

Kylie Hinson Photography

Color

Color is exploding in wedding papers. Although white, ecru, and gold will always be a staple, other colors are making appearances and sometimes stealing the show. Soft muted hues in blush, blues, and soft sages are a favorite. These work with the most formal of ceremonies and are great for more casual events, those with boho overtones as well as those with a farmhouse feel. Deep jewel tones are also making waves on paper. Emerald, rich ruby, amethyst, and sapphire are gorgeous to use in fall and winter. Earth tones such as terra cotta, peach, and sage green give a summer or autumn wedding a pop of seasonal color.

Crest

The ultimate in personalization is a custom created watercolor or hand drawn crest. Crests are customized logos that symbolize a couple’s journey towards the altar. Your initials, where you met, your pets, favorite hobbies or pastimes, and colors of the wedding are favorites to include in a custom crest. No two are ever the same, and it highlights the uniqueness of each couple and their story. Once the crest is created you can use it throughout the wedding invitation suite as well as day-of items like seating charts, menus, napkins, and cups.

Typography

Typography is a huge design element, whether it is calligraphy with large loopy script or super modern block lettering with lots of white space. Typography is the most important of invitation design elements. Some of the most

J. Cameron Photography

Sandy Swagger JonesPhotography

popular trends with typography are hand painted scripts and calligraphy. Depending on the style, invitations can have a formal look, or fun and casual. Minimalist typography is also a popular choice for couples that prefer a clean and modern appearance.

Eco Friendly

Some couples make their earth conscious statement through stationery that is green and helps reduce their carbon footprint. Some of the most popular sustainable products used in wedding stationery are plantable paper with noninvasive wildflowers and herbs that guests can put in the ground after the big day. Recycled paper and vegetable dyes are another way to make your invitations a little kinder to Mother Nature.

Embellishments

Some couples choose to elevate their invitations with add-ons such as wax seals, vellum wraps, ribbons, and belly bands. Wax seals, an old-world stationery embellishment is having a resurgence in modern wedding invitations. Wax is melted onto the invitation or envelope and then imprinted with a design in the hot wax. Not interested in melting wax? You can get the same look with premade wax seals that have adhesive backs. Wax seals are an easy and fairly inexpensive way to up the

wow factor for your invitations. Vellum is a trendy add-on with translucent stock that is used in wraps around an invitation, belly bands, and even envelopes. Vellum can also be printed and gives a very layered look to invitations. Ribbons, twine, and thread tied in bows or knots or combined with a wax seal, not only add a pretty finish to the invitation but also serves to keep all the pieces of the suite together in a neat package.

Your invitation sets the stage for the wedding and all that your guests will experience with you, make it one they would not say no to!

Holly is the Owner and Lead Designer of Papeterie Fine Stationery and Gifts in Bon Air, Virginia. With a lifelong love of design, she and her staff enjoy custom designing your ideas into beautiful invitations. Papeterie has been serving brides nationally and internationally for 30 years. For unparalleled design, wedding invitation etiquette, service, and one of Richmond’s favorite gift boutiques visit our website at papeterierichmond.com.

Photography by Audrey Rose Photography

5 Ways to Enhance Your Smile on Your Wedding Day

By Emilie Ellis

To prepare for your wedding day, it is encouraged to do an initial consult with an orthodontist or dentist approximately one year in advance. This allows enough time to know when to start each step and gives plenty of notice for preparation. Each procedure or treatment is easy to maintain, straightforward, and comfortable. Here are some common ones couples do to get their smile camera ready!

health

&5beauty

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 long… even through all of the happy tears!

wedding countdown

10-12 MONTHS

Schedule appointments with bridal salons

Hire a hair and makeup artist or team

2-4 MONTHS

Schedule hair & makeup trial

Sandy Swagger Jones Photography

Invisalign®

An invisible and innovative way to straighten your smile without the restrictions of traditional braces. Most cases typically last six months or less.

Liplase™

A natural, non-surgical, and non-invasive method to plump and shape lips without the risks and discomforts of fillers. It is recommended to start Liplase 2-3 months before the wedding day.

Smoothlase™

Also a natural, nonsurgical, and non-invasive option, this lifts, tightens, and rejuvenates skin around the lips, mouth, and chin. Depending on your age it is recommended to begin Smoothlase treatments at least six months prior to your wedding day.

Premiere Whitening

A personalized experience to give a brighter, healthier looking smile. This should be started at least three months before your pre-wedding photos.

Smile Design

Create and shape the stunning smile you have always desired. The initial consult should be anywhere from six months to one year ahead of the wedding day.

Each of these treatments can help to not only make you smile bigger and brighter, but also can keep the mouth healthy at the same time. They reduce cavity risks and tooth loss while giving the smile you’ve always wanted!

Emilie Ellis is a Registered Dental Hygienist who has been practicing for 10 years. She works with Dr. Sarah Wilmer at Cosmetic and Laser Dental Spa of Richmond, serves as a leader in the Virginia Dental Hygienists’ Association, and teaches at VCU School of Dentistry. For more info on how Dr. Wilmer and Emilie can help enhance your smile, please visit sarahwilmerdds.com.

After the Aisle: THE BLENDED FAMILY

By Tammy Edwards

In 1969, a situation comedy was introduced to the American public about a man who was a widower with three sons. He met and subsequently married a lady, who by the way, was a widow, who had three young daughters of her own. Well, they soon married and thus became America’s most wellloved blended family, The Brady Bunch. We watched as well as laughed at the many shenanigans had by the Brady bunch. But is it always so easy?

When bringing two separate families together as one, it may often be very challenging and somewhat difficult. The children may not be as smitten with your future spouse as you are. They may be envious of this person who is now taking up your time or putting the smile on your face that used to be limited to only them. There may be resentment from the child of your mate, especially when they are used to having their parent all to themselves. The bonus parent may be viewed as an intrusion. They may not appreciate someone else living in their space. They may also resent someone, who is not their biological parent giving advice or telling them what to do. Additionally, there may be resentment from the child’s other biological parent if that new one is fueling the child with their own ill feelings.

There are some things that should be discussed and taken under consideration. First, take the time to get to know the bonus children in the relationship. You are joining two already made families. Find out what the child’s interests are. Talk with them and not to them. Do not be quick to usurp authority over the bonus child. This may lead to more friction in the relationship, especially from the other biological parent. Don’t “bribe” your bonus children with gifts to win their favor. Be kind. Be patient. Be quiet. There are times when you want to react in retaliation to something that has been said in anger, but don’t respond. Often, children act out feelings in not only saying things that are rude but doing mean and spiteful things as well. Communicate to your future spouse if there is a situation in which things are being said and done by the bonus children that are disrespectful. Discuss how this makes you feel, and how you would like the relationship to be. Although it may not seem like it, the child is probably acting out in rebellion and anger toward the situation and not to you personally. Parent all children equally. Do not favor one set

over the other. Treat all involved with the same instruction, love, and discipline. All discipline should come from the biological parent until love and trust has been established.

Do not speak ill of the other biological parent. If possible, keep an open line of communication and respect for the other parent and refrain from causing a scene or saying unkind things about anyone. If there is a situation where one is deceased, place a picture in their bedroom and insure the child that you are not trying to replace the now deceased parent, but that you are there if and when needed. You may find that you can parent harmoniously with all parties involved.

INCLUDE THE BONUS CHILDREN, AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE, IN THE PLANNING OF THE WEDDING. Allow them to take part in the ceremony. One idea is have them pour sand in a vase to signify the unification of the two families. A bride may opt to have their son walk them down the aisle or stand in as the groom’s “best man”. The groom may gift the bride’s daughter a small present or flowers. Some couples may read handcrafted notes to the bonus children to ensure them that they are there to add love, security, and stability to all members of the family, not just the spouse.

The blended family can be a harmonious and wonderful unit. Children in these families often benefit from having four parents that love them and support them along with a multitude of bonus grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins as well. It may be a lot of work at the beginning, but just as we all saw in the situation comedy of the 1960’s, there can be a very eventful, humorous, close knit and fun-filled happily ever after for the blended family.

Tammy Edwards, B.I.S., M.Ed., is the Owner/Operator of The Candy Lady. Tammy started her business after designing a buffet for her 30th high school class reunion. Buffets may include candies, cookies, popcorn, doughnuts, and anything sweet that you desire. She also creates customized gift baskets, boxes, and favor bags for all occasions. Learn more here: https:// tammythecandylady.com

It may be a lot of work at the beginning, but just as we all saw in the situation comedy of the 1960’s, there can be a very eventful, humorous, close knit and fun-filled happily ever after for the blended family.

Building Stronger Relationships for the Common Wealth

In all the excitement of wedding planning, no one wants to think about divorce. Trust us, it’s not something we want to talk about in a wedding magazine either! But with roughly 50% of marriages ending in divorce or separation, it’s something we HAVE to talk about! After all, getting married is far more than planning a celebration — it’s planning the rest of your life.

Now what if we told you that there is something you can do to cut down your chances of experiencing divorce by 30%? That’s a no-brainer! Studies show that attending premarital counseling as a couple will decrease your chances of divorce by a third.

This is where Rebecca Blackwell and the team at the Relationship Foundation of Virginia come in. Relationship Foundation of Virginia is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through healthy relationships, marriages, and families. Whether you’re single, engaged, married, or in a long-term relationship, RFVA offers coaching and engaging programs that provide the practical tools for building strong and fulfilling relationships.

After chatting with Rebecca about premarital coaching and the other incredible programs RFVA has to offer, we were ready to sign up for a session ourselves! With 15 years of experience working with couples, certifications in several Marriage and Relationship Coaching programs, and her own 24 years of marriage, Rebecca has plenty of insight to share into what it takes to build strong foundations. She also has a clear passion for helping others form marriages just like the ones she grew up admiring.

“My grandma always said, “Don’t let the sun go down on your anger,’” Rebecca remembers. As she watched her parents navigate 58 years of marriage, Rebecca learned the importance of family, faith, and solid communication. Though her father has passed, he left Rebecca with strong roots, and she continues to honor his legacy by finding the silver lining of every situation and helping others develop those same strong roots.

“This is not your old-fashioned premarital counseling,” Rebecca says. “It’s your opportunity to connect and talk about what WILL happen, what COULD happen, and the good and the bad of being married.” Some of the topics Rebecca covers in her sessions include communication, problem solving, sex and affection, finances, children and parenting, spiritual beliefs, family, and friends.

Not sure if premarital counseling is something you need? Ask yourself if you and your partner have had successful conversations about a few things:

How soon do you want children?

· How many children do you want?

· How will both families be involved in the marriage?

· How would you handle job loss or a sudden move?

What type of roles and responsibilities do you see yourself taking around the house?

If you haven’t discussed at least a few of these topics as a couple, you may not be setting up a strong foundation for your future! Your sessions with Rebecca will be a safe space to share your feelings, make plans, and grow as a couple. Those big topics seem a lot less scary when someone is guiding the discussion!

Rebecca and the team at RFVA also counsel couples who are getting remarried and bringing two families together. Rebecca will help you learn from your previous relationships to create clearer communication and stronger foundations than ever before.

Once you’re a part of RFVA, you’re a part of their community for even more of life’s big events. After the big day, you can join The Ring of Relationships, a monthly subscription service offering quarterly coaching, annual assessments, discounts on date nights, and more.

And speaking of date nights, RFVA hosts incredible events for couples! You’ll be invited to dances, movie nights, glamping trips, paint parties, and more! Whether you’re looking to connect with other couples or make memories together, you’ll learn a little bit and have a whole lot of fun. You can register for date nights at www.rfva.org.

And they don’t stop there! RVFA also hosts Dad Bootcamp for new dads! This virtual half day event is hosted for dads, by dads. A veteran dad will talk you through what to expect as a new parent and what to expect throughout labor, delivery, and beyond. You can also register for Dad Bootcamp on the RFVA website.

The best part? Four premarital coaching sessions with RFVA are ONLY $150! That’s a steal of a deal when you remember that the simple act of participating in premarital counseling means you’re 30% less likely to experience divorce. PLUS, mentioning RVA Weddings gives you $25 off, AND you can give these sessions as a gift! Who needs another set of mixing bowls when you give the gift of a strong relationship foundation?

To learn more, please reach out to rebecca@rfva.org, visit wecoachcouples.org, or follow RFVA on Instagram at @getrelationalva.

“This is not your old-fashioned premarital counseling. It’s your opportunity to connect and talk about what WILL happen, what COULD happen, and the good and the bad of being married.”

FLAWLESS WEDDING MAKEUP STARTS WITH Healthy Skin!

By Shalese Higginbotham, POSH PR®

It’s no secret that on wedding days, people want to look their absolute best. As a bride, groom, or parent, you’ve probably been dreaming of this monumental day for years. You’ll be seeing all of your closest family and friends, and the photos and videos will last a lifetime. That’s why there couldn’t be a better time to tackle those little insecurities you’ve been carrying around!

That’s where Dr. Agnihotri comes in. Dr. A, as he’s known around his office, is an expert on the face. With an extensive and impressive background in oral and maxillofacial surgery, his specialty is anything from the neck up. But before you start picturing invasive and intense surgeries that leave people looking plastic, Dr. Agnihotri is striving for the opposite. He explains, “We want to enhance your natural beauty with minor adjustments.” In fact, if Dr. A doesn’t think a procedure is right for a patient, he won't do it. “We’ll work together to create a treatment plan that is best. If we can’t achieve a safe, natural-looking result, I won’t do it. I have to be able to sleep at night!”

For the average person, seeing a doctor and undergoing a new procedure can be intimidating, but don’t worry — Dr. Agnihotri and his team make it easy. First, you’ll head to their pristine Short Pump office for a simple consultation. Dr. A will chat through what your goals are and the look you want to achieve while explaining the different steps he can take to get you there. Then he’ll create a personalized treatment plan that works for your timeline.

So, if your wedding date is your deadline, when should you start working with Dr. Agnihotri?

For the more surgical options like Eyelid Rejuvenation, Laser Skin Resurfacing, or a Face Lift, the process should begin a year to six months out. The earlier the better! The same goes for filler treatments like Botox and Dysport which are injections to reduce fine lines. “Six months is protocol so we can develop a treatment plan. If you were training for a 5k, you wouldn’t wear brand new sneakers the day of,” Dr. Agnihotri explains.

The recent trend of having glowing, bright skin is not lost on Dr. Agnihotri. That’s why his top recommendation for wedding day beauty is a HydraFacial. With this non-invasive skin-clearing procedure, you’ll leave with glowing skin in just 30 minutes. “You get that healthy, dewy glow while your skin is infused with antioxidants, leaving your face hydrated and refreshed,” Dr. A says. Since it’s non-invasive, you can treat yourself to a HydraFacial the week of the wedding because after all, flawless wedding makeup starts with beautiful, healthy skin!

Don’t wait to start your journey to a beautiful complexion!

Contact Dr. Agnihotri at Agnihotri Cosmetic Facial Surgery and see their complete list of procedures on their website https://agnihotricosmeticsurgery.com or call 804.270.5028.

Champagne Taste, Beer Budget: How to Afford the Tropical Honeymoon of Your Dreams

By Christine Hardenberger

honeymoons

Once your wedding has come to an end, it’s time to focus on you and your other half. Your honeymoon is the perfect opportunity to travel somewhere you’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!

wedding countdown

4-6 MONTHS

Consult your travel agent about honeymoon plans Pick & reserve your perfect honeymoon destination

1-2 MONTHS

Confirm honeymoon reservations & be sure that your luggage meets current travel regulations.

J

Cameron Photography

Alright lovebirds, you've splurged on the perfect dress, the freshest flowers, the fanciest venue, the mouth-watering caterer, the talented photographer, and the jamming DJ. You're ready to head to a tropical island for a honeymoon to remember...but hold up, the price tag for that over-the-water villa in the Maldives is giving you a heart attack! You've had the wedding of your dreams and you deserve a fabulous honeymoon too, even on a budget.

Yes, you can still have an unforgettable tropical honeymoon without breaking the bank. If your dreams don’t match your wallet, there are a few things you can do to make the honeymoon more affordable:

· Book early – Don't wait until the lastminute thinking you'll get some magical deal. No, no, no. The earlier you book, the better the pricing. And if the price drops later on, you can usually adjust the cost. Win-win, right?

· Stay closer to home – Sure, the Maldives may be calling your name, but a similar villa in the Caribbean will cost a fraction of the price. You still get the same experience without the hefty bill.

· Be flexible with dates – If you’re getting married in the tropical high season (read: winter), you can save a bundle by postponing the honeymoon for a few months. Tropical travel in the off-season can cost up to 50% less than traveling during the colder months.

· Put the honeymoon on layaway – Yes, layaway is still a thing. Many vacation packages and cruises allow you to confirm a trip with just a small deposit and pay over time. So, you can still have that dream honeymoon without going broke.

· Choose a popular destination – Popular destinations such as Jamaica and Mexico have more flights and resorts which result in a lower overall cost. Don’t confuse “popular” with “crowded.” There are plenty of boutique resorts available if you’re looking for something unique!

· Set up a honeymoon registry – If you don’t need any more sheets or pots, why not set up a honeymoon registry and let guests help pay for the experience?

· Use a travel advisor – A travel agent that specializes in tropical honeymoons will

ensure you get the best deal, some extra perks, and all the available discounts. There you have it. You don’t need a Kardashian-sized budget to have the tropical honeymoon of your dreams. Just follow these tips and you’ll be on a tropical beach sipping piña coladas in no time!

Christine Hardenberger is the travel planner you've been looking for! With 15 years of experience planning truly memorable honeymoons and destination weddings, Christine has the knowledge and expertise to craft the experience of your dreams. Plus, as a veteran's wife and member of a first-responder family, Christine offers discounts to those who serve. Go to travelprochristine.com for more info!

THE

Grandest OF EXITS

By Paula Ramirez

Flower petals

This classic exit never goes out of style. Offering guests lovely petals that match the wedding florals tossed during the exit is tradition at its finest!

Sexy getaway

Consider hiring an exotic car service, think Bentley or Aston Martin, to whisk you and your love away. You are sure to make a dramatic and lasting impression!

Winter wonderland

For those who opt for a winter wedding, add a little magic! Why not help out Mother Nature by having snow flurries as you exit? Snow machines are easy to find and will truly be the icing on the cake!

Fireworks show

While getting permission can be tedious, the time will be more than well spent in the end. The most coveted of them all, a private fireworks show for friends and family will surely end the night in grand fashion!

Paula Ramirez is the Proprietor of Historic Mankin Mansion Wedding & Event Estate. Paula and her husband Martin have lovingly restored this National Landmark to its original grandeur and are honored to share the treasured estate for events. Paula, Martin, and the Mansion have been featured in Forbes, Orbitz, Travel Channel, MSNBC, Martha Stewart Weddings, Oprah Magazine, Huffington Post, New York Times, and Apple TV.

The end of the night is your chance to go out with a bang. Let’s look at a few classic and creative choices to make your exit one to remember!

MJ Mendoza 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 parking…or having too much fun at the dance party after!

wedding countdown

4-6 MONTHS

Reserve wedding day transportation

2-4 WEEKS

Confirm transportation and arrival times

Kylie Hinson Photography

Jan 1 New Year’s Day

Jan 16 Martin Luther King Day

Feb 14 Valentine’s Day

Feb 20 Presidents Day

Mar 12 Daylight Saving (Start)

Mar 17 St. Patrick’s Day

Apr 7 Good Friday

Apr 9 Easter Sunday

May 14 Mother’s Day

May 29 Memorial Day

Jun 18 Father’s Day

Jul 4 Independence Day

Sep 4 Labor Day

Oct 9 Columbus Day

Oct 31 Halloween

Nov 5 Daylight Saving (End)

Nov 11 Veterans’ Day

Nov 23 Thanksgiving

Dec 25 Christmas Day

Dec 31 New Year’s Eve

Jan 1 New Year's Day

Jan 15 Martin Luther King Day

Feb 14 Valentine's Day

Feb 19 Presidents Day

Mar 10 Daylight Saving (Start)

Mar 17 St. Patrick's Day

Mar 29 Good Friday

Mar 31 Easter Sunday

May 12 Mother's Day

May 27 Memorial Day

Jun 16 Father's Day

Jul 4 Independence Day

Sep 2 Labor Day

Oct 14 Columbus Day

Oct 31 Halloween

Nov 3 Daylight Saving (End)

Nov 11 Veterans' Day

Nov 28 Thanksgiving

Dec 25 Christmas Day

Dec 31 New Year's Eve

planning tools

The key to planning a wedding is ORGANIZATION. To help you start and finish strong, we’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. That’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.

Sandy Swagger Jones Photography

budget

The budget can be a stressful part of wedding planning. Let this worksheet help you navigate this difficult task.

The Estate at Independence offers many breathtaking spots for portraits, ceremonies and receptions including these.

ITEM BUDGETACTUAL 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

Mother’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.

The Estate at Independence includes all these items as well as an onsite coordinator.

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.

ITEM

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

Gratuities for Other Vendors

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.

BUDGETACTUAL NOTES

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.

Gianna Grace Photography Gianna Grace Photography

Gianna Grace Photography

wedding countdown checklist

12-18 Months

Determine the style of wedding you want – formal, semi-formal or casual

Decide how many guests you will be inviting before getting your heart set on a venue. The Estate at Independence can accommodate 300!

Start scheduling visits to wedding venues

Interview & choose a wedding coordinator

Figure out your budget & discuss who will be helping with which expenses

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.

Choose your wedding party

10-12 Months

Choose & book a ceremony venue if separate from your reception location

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

Hire a hair and makeup artist or team

Send out your Save the Date cards

6-9 Months

Set up cake tastings

Determine the order of the ceremony events. The Estate at Independence’s in-house coordinator will help you through this.

Create a wedding website

4-6 Months

Consult with a professional lighting company

Select ceremony musicians

Meet with your DJ about music for your wedding dinner & reception

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

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

Reserve hotel room blocks for guests

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 future spouse. 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

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 out formal invitations

1-2 Months

Make sure all written contracts with vendors are in place

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!

Plan bridesmaid outing

Confirm honeymoon reservations & be sure that your 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

Get wedding license – it can be obtained from any courthouse in Virginia

2-4 Weeks

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

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 your future spouse and their wedding party members to pick up their attire

Stock your bridal emergency kit

Write vows/speeches

Get excited! Your big day is almost here!

After the Wedding

Ensure formalwear is returned

Review your vendors on RichmondWeddings.com

Preserve your dress

Write thank you notes

vendor directory

ALTERATIONS

Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center

1517-D North Parham Road

Henrico, VA 23229

(804) 273-6303

Ad inside back cover

BEAUTY

Amanda M Perry (804) 510-6720

Ad page 130

Cosmetic and Laser Dental Spa of Richmond

Sarah C. Wilmer, DDS

27 Briggs Drive

Manakin- Sabot, VA 23103

(804) 784-2386

Ad page 3

Island Glow Tanning & Beauty 306 North Main Street Farmville, VA 23901

(434) 603-0703

Ad page 131

Island Glow Tanning & Beauty 3820 Courthouse Tavern Lane Powhatan, VA 23139

(804) 501-6222

Ad page 131

Island Glow Tanning & Beauty 14734 Village Square Place Midlothian, VA 23112 (804) 399-2675

Ad page 131

Tialma Moirai Day Spa 8413 Patterson Avenue Suite A Richmond, VA 23229

(804) 533-6926

Ad page 131

BRIDAL REGISTRIES

Dillard’s Short Pump Town Center (804) 253-0182

Stony Point Fashion Park (804) 253-1860

BRIDESMAID DRESSES

Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center

1517-D North Parham Road

Henrico, VA 23229

(804) 273-6303

Ad inside back cover

CALLIGRAPHY

Papeterie 3048 Stony Point Road Richmond, VA 23235

Appointment recommended (804) 560-7955

Ad page 127

Our Curated Design (540) 273-8460

Ad page 9

CATERERS

A Sharper Palate Catering & Events 5511 Lakeside Avenue Richmond, VA 23228 (804) 553-0495

Ad page 73

Atlas 42 4032 Cox Road - Suite A Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 965-0420

Ad page 40

Cater 2 Events 8534 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 269-0359

Ad page 75

Deep Run Roadhouse Catering 12379 Gayton Road Richmond, VA 23238 (804) 740-6301

Ad page 75

Everyday Gourmet

6010 North Crestwood Avenue

Richmond, VA 23230

(804) 651-7281

Ad page 73

OMO Catering 6329 Mallory Drive

Richmond, VA 23226

(804) 285-1803

Ad page 71

The Place at Innsbrook 4036-C Cox Road

Glen Allen, VA 23060

(804) 346-2100

Ad page 60

Roma Ristorante Italiano

7240 Bell Creek Road

Mechanicsville, VA 23111

(804) 559-9200

Ad page 75

Tarrant’s West

11129 Three Chopt Road

Richmond, VA 23233

(804) 205-9009

Ad page 61

CEREMONY MUSIC

Lyric String Quartet (804) 266-3396

Ad page 109

CHURCHES

St. John’s United Church of Christ

503 Stuart Circle

Richmond, VA 23220

(804) 358-9291

Ad page 63

St. Joseph’s Villa

8000 Brook Road

Richmond, VA 23227

(804) 553-3215

Ad page 62

Tiny Chapel Weddings

Richmond, VA

(804) 396-4245

Ad page 62

Unity of Bon Air

923 Buford Road

Richmond, VA 23235

(804) 320-5584

Ad page 62

Waverly Estate

11586 Courthouse Road

Lunenburg, VA 23952

(434) 321-4032

Ad page 34

EVENT STAFFING

The Coordinated Event (804) 344-0011

Ad page 12

FAVORS & GIFTS

The Candy Lady Richmond, VA (804) 399-0516

Ad page 13

Flowers Make Scents

1272 Alverser Plaza

Midlothian, VA 23113

(804) 897-6100

Ad page 105

King of Pops (804) 350-4400

Ad page 13

Papeterie 3048 Stony Point Road Richmond, VA 23235

Appointment recommended (804) 560-7955

Ad page 127

FLOWERS

Flowers Make Scents 1272 Alverser Plaza

Midlothian, VA 23113

(804) 897-6100

Ad page 105

Vogue Flowers 1114 North Boulevard Richmond, VA 23230

(804) 353-9600

Ad page 102

GOWN PRESERVATION

Puritan Cleaners

13 Locations to Serve You

(804) 355-5726

Ad page 84

Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center

1517 North Parham Road

Henrico, VA 23229

(804) 273-6303

Ad inside back cover

HAIR & MAKEUP

Amanda M Perry (804) 510-6720

Ad page 130

Island Glow Tanning & Beauty 306 North Main Street

Farmville, VA 23901

(434) 603-0703

Ad page 131

Island Glow Tanning & Beauty 3820 Courthouse Tavern Lane

Powhatan, VA 23139

(804) 501-6222

Ad page 131

Island Glow Tanning & Beauty

14734 Village Square Place

Midlothian, VA 23112

(804) 399-2675

Ad page 131

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Cosmetic and Laser Dental Spa of Richmond

Sarah C. Wilmer, DDS

27 Briggs Drive

Manakin- Sabot, VA 23103

(804) 784-2386

Ad page 3

Relationship Foundation of Virginia 2101 Maywill Street Richmond, VA 23230

(804) 288-3431

Ad page 131

Tialma Moirai Day Spa 8413 Patterson Avenue Suite A Richmond, VA 23229

(804) 533-6926

Ad page 131

HONEYMOON & TRAVEL

Journeys, Inc. (804) 288-0188

Ad page 141

Modern Travel Professionals (804) 833-8050

Ad page 140

Ruth Stirling Travel (804) 746-1838

Ad page 140

HOTELS

The Berkeley Hotel 1200 East Cary Street Richmond, VA 23219

(804) 780-1300

Ad page 39

Hilton Garden Inn Richmond Innsbrook 4050 Cox Road Glen Allen, VA 23060

(804) 521-2900

Ad page 58

The Inn at Blackstone 707 4th Street

Blackstone, VA 23824

(434) 686-5210

Ad page 52

Linden Row Inn 100 East Franklin Street

Richmond, VA 23219

sales@lindenrowinn.com

Ad page 41

Omni Hotels and Resorts

100 South 12th Street

Richmond, VA 23219

OmniHotels.com/Richmond

Ad page 58

Quirk Hotel 201 West Broad Street

Richmond, VA 23220

(804) 340-6040

Ad page 60

Richmond Marriott Downtown 500 East Broad Street

Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 343-6943

Ad page 59

INVITATIONS & PAPER GOODS

Papeterie 3048 Stony Point Road

Richmond, VA 23235

Appointment recommended (804) 560-7955

Ad page 127

JEWELRY

Diamonds Direct - Short Pump 11131 West Broad Street

Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 967-0500

Ad back cover

LIGHTING DESIGN

The Lighting & Sound Company

4208 Sarellen Road

Henrico, VA 23231

(804) 893-5066

Ad page 83

LUXURY RESTROOM TRAILERS

Ashland Posh Potties

(804) 519-2555

Ad page 82

Silver Stagecoach

11479 Fox Cross Road

Ashland, VA 23005

(804) 807-4720

Ad page 82

MOTHER’S APPAREL

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 62

PHOTO BOOTHS

Social Party Booth

(804) 402-7397

Ad page 82

PHOTOGRAPHY & PORTRAITS

Anna Gibbs Photography and Videography

AnnaGibbs.com

Ad page 97

Ashley Hesse Photography

AshleyHessePhotography.com

Ad page 99

Hayes and Fisk Photography

1003 North Parham Road

Richmond, VA 23229

(804) 740-9307

Ad pages 94-95

J. Cameron Photography

(804) 867-8553

Ad page 98

Kristine DeWitt Photographers

KristineDeWittPhotography.com

Ad page 98

Kylie Hinson Photography

KylieHinson.com

Ad page 98

MJ Mendoza Photography

MJMendozaPhotography.com

Ad page 98

Phew Shots Photography LLC

PhewShots.com

Ad page 100

Sandy Swagger Jones Photographer

SandySwaggerJones.com

Ad page 100

Stephanie Jenkins Photography

5409 Commonwealth Centre Pkwy

Midlothian, VA 23112

(804) 398-8339

Ad page 99

RENTALS

Ashland Posh Potties

(804) 519-2555

Ad page 82

Ashley’s Occasions

(804) 647-9006

Ad page 9

Our Curated Design

(540) 273-8460

Ad page 9

Party Perfect 2400 Magnolia Court Richmond, VA 23223

(804) 359-2400

Ad page 81

Rent-E-Quip 2600 Boulevard Colonial Heights, VA 23834 (804) 520-7100

Ad pages 78-79

Silver Stagecoach

11479 Fox Cross Road

Ashland, VA 23005

(804) 807-4720

Ad page 82

Sipping Southern Mobile Bar (757) 903-1293

(757) 707-9738

Ad page 82

SWEET TREATS

The Candy Lady

(804) 399-0516

Ad page 13

King of Pops

(804) 350-4400

Ad page 13

TRANSPORTATION

Taylor’s Classic Travels (804) 767-6387

Ad page 142

VENUES

Pages 64-67

VIDEOGRAPHY

Anna Gibbs Photography and Videography

AnnaGibbs.com

Ad page 99

DreamClip Films (757) 771-0288

Ad page 101

WEDDING GOWNS

Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center 1517 North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303

Ad inside back cover

WEDDING PLANNERS

Ashley’s Occasions (804) 647-9006

Ad page 9

The Coordinated Event (804) 344-0011

Ad page 12

Our Curated Design (540) 273-8460

Ad page 9

Simply

Event Planning SimplyCharmedEvents.com

Ad page 9

Calculating Cocktails

We know how to celebrate

Guide to serving sizes

(12 oz. glass) 15.5 Gallon

Information provided by Total Wine. Learn more at www.totalwine.com

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

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