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06.
DESTINATION WEDDINGS Intimate Weddings With Smaller Guest Lists
14.
CAPTIVATING TABLESCAPES Elements That Hold Special Memories
16.
THE BOUQUET Says it All
20.
SIMPLY WHITE WEDDING CAKES
White on White Cake Designs
24.
MEET ME AT THE BAR
Food Bars to Die For
28. DEADLINES & DETAILS
Planning Ensures Wedding Success
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93 E. Fourth St. • Minster 419-628-3614
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Published by Arens Corporation P.O. Box 69 • 395 S. High St. • Covington, OH 45318 T h e
B r i d e ’ s
Managing Editor Suzanne Polk Fox
R e s o u r c e
Production Claire Thomas
Contributing Writers Brandi Everett Rebecca Gutknecht Julie Maddock Shirin Mehdi
Copy Editor Chad Ruiz
Design Claire Thomas
©2021 Jumpstart Publishing, LLC New Orleans, LA All rights reserved. • info@igofox.com www.igofox.com www.foreverbridalmagazine.com Issue 8 • V2
937-473-2028 • Fax 937-473-2500 arenspub@gmail.com • www.arenspub.com
Publisher, Gary Godfrey Office Administration
Kim Rindler Marty Speer Sales
Yvonne Welbaum 740-364-8981
Graphic Design
Jean Devlin Tonnie Hovey Jacqui Noll Legend Patty Marsha Thomas Carol Wood
arens corporation Publisher of Stillwater Valley Advertiser, Penny Saver & Country Living
Over the years, there will be smooth sailing and rough seas, but the right insurance protection will help you stay the course. Contact Littman-Thomas Insurance Agency for a complimentary consultation and rate quote. Our comprehensive coverage plans and unparalleled service will bring you peace of mind for a lifetime together.
You’re in this together… make sure you have the right insurance. Homeowners • Life • Farm • Health • Disability • Umbrella Long-term • Auto • Liability • Renters • Business & Professional Insurance
GREENVILLE
515 E. Main St., 937-548-2131
BRADFORD
110 E. Main St., 937-448-2590
Hours at Both Locations Mon/Tues/Wed/Fri: 9–5, Thurs: 9–Noon
n o i t a n i t s De s g n i d d e W INTIMATE WEDDINGS WITH SMALLER GUEST LISTS Troy, Oh 45373 937-440-1700
6057 Franklin Drive, Celina, Oh 45822 419-268-1800 Celina: Monday-Friday: 8am–5pm Saturday by appointment only
www.ReliableRentalInc.com
GIFYYY PHOTO BOOTH • • • • •
Newest generation photo booth Unlimited gifs & stills Instant text message delivery Unlimited sharing on social media Bulk download of all gifs and stills after event
TENTS
Poles, Frame, ClearSpan Structure, or Century
SIDEWALLS 6
Windows or Solid
Tables Chairs Linens Floorings Staging Dance Floor Stanchions Restroom Trailer Lighting Concession Bars Inflatables Pipe and Draping Crowd Control Panels
Destination weddings are high in demand as luxury is more attainable than ever. Places like Hawaii, Mexico, and California continue to impress and stun from afar. If you were already dreaming about a honeymoon filled with romantic views, why not go all in and bring your wedding to a dream location? Skip the stress of airports, packing, and overnight travel emergencies. After the wedding, you and your spouse will be able to slip into paradise without hassles. With the honeymoon already in tow, you will find yourself relaxed and stress-free. Not only that, you will be in paradise with friends and family. Oftentimes, destination weddings are more intimate. Instead of throwing a huge party for a couple hundred people, you have the option to go small and choose those who are closest to you and your spouse. With hundreds of exotic locations around the world, destination weddings are hard to beat. Picture turquoise beaches, pristine mountain scapes, or tropical jungles. Transport yourself into another world. Culture and local cuisine is at your fingertips. Certain customs or traditional ceremonies will feel even more authentic. Destination weddings can be tailored to fit your every desire. BY REBECCA GUTKNECHT
Mendocino, California The golden state has much to offer with rugged cliff sides, ocean views, and natural beauty immersed in modern cities. Mendocino, California is one of the most beautiful communities in the United States with towering redwoods and crystalline beaches. This 6,385 square foot hideaway offers four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and an award-winning chef’s kitchen, as well as other fanciful luxuries. Modern beauty awaits!
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Cabo, Mexico
A beautiful Mexican villa with stunning ocean blue views await you. Tucked into one of Mexico’s secluded beaches is Casa Bellamar, Baja’s hidden gem, decorated with exquisite interior and exterior modern designs. There is nothing more intimate than a destination wedding on a private beach surrounded by peaceful waves and dreamy skies. The property can accommodate 150 guests, with a private suite and salon for the bride. The main house is accompanied by four guest casitas, sleeping eighteen total guests. Beach views are visible 100 meters across, along with a mosaic heated pool, two palapas, a swim-up bar, solar tennis court, and a plethora of beach activities. Cabo is the place to be for beauty and serenity.
Perfect Honeymoons Begin at Global Escapes Tours and Travel
178 W. Fourth St. • Minster, Ohio ~ 419-305-1266 ~ www.gettravel.org
Big Island, Hawaii
Hawaii is synonymous with tropical luxury; palm trees, heliconia, and plumeria make up the allure of the landscape. Hawaiian Archipelago is just one of many gorgeous resorts on the Mauna Kea Coast. The idyllic property boasts 5,358 square feet with five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and two half-bathrooms. It is complete with a state-ofthe-art gym, private tennis court, art collections and PGA golf course. It is the perfect wedding destination for island lovers. From Cabo, Mexico to the Big Island, Hawaii, Destinations in Paradise offers pure bliss in luxury villas. Nothing is short of perfection with five-star accommodations and unparalleled service. Expect to be pampered with provided transportation, an in-house butler, house-cooking, and private chefs. The luxury retreat company is now providing the opportunity for destination weddings. Lush nature and private beaches with the benefit of world-class services and amenities makes for paradise. From anything like weddings to intimate receptions or vow renewals, Destinations in Paradise gives you the opportunity of a lifetime. Your marriage deserves an unforgettable experience filled with love and laughter. You can bring your dreams to life in paradise. For booking inquiries and more information, please visit: Destinations in Paradise.
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Capture the emotion of your special day PRECIOUS MOMENTS IN TIME
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
Brittany Carol Photography BY JULIE MADDOCK 937-423-3720 12 brittany-carol-photography.business.site 220 Factory St., Gettysburg, OH
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Tablescapes Captivating
It’s going to be a dazzling decade!
And your one-of-a-kind love story deserves its own unforgettable moment at your wedding reception. What’s trending now with tablescapes? The “Wow” factor. A mixture of bold, modern, and simplistic style. Whether a sweetheart table just for the couple, head table for the entire wedding party, or the guest tables—it’s all about telling a story, creating a mood, letting your personal taste shine through.
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Breaking All the Rules The only rule you need to abide by is to be true to your personal style. Integrate your forward-thinking approach to life by mixing dark colors and a bold pattern. Add an overhead installment of white lights or hang string lights vertically behind the head table for added drama. Adding delicate flowers in clear glass vases provides a visually softening effect.
Simplistically Bold Couples are choosing to infuse their own creative touch and whimsy to every aspect of their wedding. And creating a truly unique and dazzling tablescape can easily be achieved on a budget. A bold pop of color can be stunning when set against a neutral background. Inexpensive, yet rich in drama: Pair a white table and place settings with bright red zinnias, roses, or hibiscus. The singular red splash of color, although simplistic in style, conveys a modern elegance. Festive Flare Mix and match orange and pink napkins and vibrant flowers to create a festive yet uncomplicated tablescape. Colors can create the mood you want for your reception— upbeat, happy and ready for fun. Perfect for an outdoor summer wedding! To add an artfully contrived flare to the tables, push multiple tables together to create a “snake” shape or curve. Or, arrange them into an “X” or the first letter of your last name. Forget the “rules”—this is your day to let your imagination run wild; let your friends see your style and voice shine through. It’s time to let your inner artist and architect out of the box and guide you in designing the wedding reception of your dreams!
From Simple to Elegant We Do It All
“Enhancing the Power of the Flower” www.abloomflowers.com
South St. Rt. 66, New Bremen 419-629-3226 • 866-629-3226
Says it All THE BOUQUET
BY BRANDI EVERETT
Daisies Just in case you are planning a traditional wedding, daisies are the perfect flowers for you. They are simple, delicate and are available in various colors. The themes of purity and innocence associated with daisies make them spectacular.
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Carnations If your wedding theme is vintage, the ruffled texture of carnations will add an excellent touch. If you are going for a monochromatic look and don’t want to break the bank by getting a centerpiece made of only roses, you can add a couple of carnations. The rich mix of pink and green carnations will give a warm touch to your wedding. You will be saving some money and still get the best of both worlds.
Exciting LivE Band! performing classics to new Dance Hits
personalized DJ & Mc Service
incluDeD with Wedding Bookings! A subtle mix of painted leaves and succulents will add life to your bouquet: A little deviation from common practice can make a brilliant addition to your flower bouquet. A couple of gold or silver painted leaves will add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your collection of flowers.
We’ll Make Your reception rock!
937-726-2527
kevinandtheothers@gmail.com
Orchids These exquisite flowers are your go-to flowers for nuptials. Their delicateness and unrivaled beauty make them perfect for your wedding. If your eyes are a shade of green, you can carry a full arrangement of green orchids to accentuate your regal look.
Tulips A delicate arrangement of long stemmed tulips can make the whole difference in your wedding ensemble. They are not too big or small, they are perfect. Red, purple, yellow or white tulips have striking color patterns and they are enchanting in their simplicity.
Calla lilies The beauty of calla lilies cannot be overemphasized. Just a handful will make an exquisite bouquet on your wedding day. They are associated with good luck charm for a happy home. So, you might want to grab a couple of calla lilies just before you say your vows. They come in different colors ranging from white, yellow, red, pink, purple and black.
Your Vision, Your Style, Your Day I’ll Make it Happen
Bridal Decor & More
Decorating Services • Rental Items • Linens Vases • Backdrops • Chair Covers • Candle Holders Table Runners • Ceiling Decor • Custom Silk Bouquets
Brenda Henry (937) 417-0312
Bridaldecormore@gmail.com
A Beautiful Setting for your wedding or special event We have the perfect gathering place to create your own canvas
Contact us today to schedule a tour or pick a date KimberlyKAllison@gmail.com
937-272-8895
7867 W. St. Rt. 185 - Covington
BRINGING YOUR
DREAM VISION TO LIFE
• FREE consultation • FREE “day of” coordinator with booking
DREAM COME TRUE DESIGNING WEDDINGS SINCE 2008
Nancy Boehringer Event Designer Owner
Heather Canan Decor Assistant Bridal Gift Designer
937-703-3505 522 N. Pearl St., Covington, OH 45318
We’ll Make Your Wedding Day Very Special! • FREE JEWELRY INSPECTION • FREE JEWELRY CLEANING
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e t i h W y l p m Si s e k a C g n i d Wed
BY SHIRIN MEHDI
Wedding cakes today can be the focal point of your wedding, but did you know that this opulent centerpiece has a long history? A reflection of the tiered cake we know today was first seen only in the 1900s. In this day and age, couples go all out to make a memory out of this age-old tradition. The sky is the limit when it comes to creativity with wedding cakes.
This year is all about simplicity and sophistication as things take a more modern approach from the rustic theme that dominated weddings of the past. A traditional cake is the first and the best choice, but this year is all about monochromatic themes. The all white on white cake is back and it’s making a statement. White cake, white pearls, white flowers, white piping are all going to be the must-haves for your show-stopper cakes this year.
Fun Fact: The origins of the wedding cake were seen in ancient Rome where the groom crumbled a piece of bread over the bride’s head as a symbol of fertility. All the guests would take a piece home for good luck.
Fun Fact: Layered cakes probably evolved from the idea of a stack of spiced buns served at weddings in Medieval England. It is said that if the bride and groom could share a kiss over these buns, they would enjoy a lifetime of togetherness.
Fill them with flavor trends like pistachio, lime, pink champagne and Earl Grey tea and your guests are going to be talking about your wedding cake for years to come.
• Custom Made Bands • Colored Gem Stones • Design, Casting, Gem Setting • Gold, Platinum & Sterling Silver Jewelry • GIA Certified Diamonds Our GIA Trained Employees Will Help in Your Diamond Selection
104 East Mason Road, Sidney, Ohio 937-492-6937 www.allisonscustomjewelry.com
Store Hours Mon–Wed 9am–6pm ∙ Thurs 9am–1pm Fri 9am–6pm ∙ Sat 9am–3pm ∙ Closed Sun
Meet Me At The
Tapas Bar
WHETHER IT’S COCKTAIL HOUR HORS D’OEUVRES OR AN INNOVATIVE ALTERNATIVE TO A FORMAL, SIT DOWN MEAL, TAPAS-STYLE FOOD BARS OFFER YOUR GUESTS DELECTABLE TREATS AND NUMEROUS SMALL PLATE OPTIONS TO FEAST THEIR EYES AND TASTE BUDS ON. TAPAS BARS LEND THEMSELVES TO RELAXED CONVERSATION, A CHILLED-OUT ATMOSPHERE AND THE ABILITY FOR GUESTS TO MINGLE ABOUT FREELY
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BYJULIE JULIE MADDOCK MADDOCK BY
V
Break tradition and say hasta la vista to crackerand-cheese plates and surprise your guests with a festive Mexican themed guacamole bar. Provide crisp, sturdy tortillas for dipping and scooping multiple versions of guacamole along with seafood served in avacado boats. Additional Mexican dip options such as chili queso, chipotle street corn dip with goat cheese, and hearty warm shredded chicken or beef nacho dip will keep this bar hopping. Don’t forget gluten free chips and lots of sliced green, red, and orange peppers to satisfy everyone.
ivid and colorful in presentation, offering a little something for everyone, this is a delicious and budget-friendly way to break bread with your wedding guests. It’s all about the presentation, flare and flavor. Embrace a Venetian theme with a cicchetti bar. These bite-size delights are easy to eat while standing and moving about conversing with guests. Have an array of offerings: Six to eight pieces make a meal. But don’t be surprised if your guests sample more of these irresistible treats; crostini topped with gorgonzola, sliced pears, and walnuts, polpette (fried meatballs), slices of roast beef with salsa verde, fig and ricotta, or crispy calamari with lime and chili salsa.
You Want the Best Of Everything Including
THE FOOD!
Quality Meats, Fresh Produce, and All Your Supplies
Many years of experience in selling quality food for weddings
Quality BEEF & PORK Osgood, Ohio
419-582-2441
Mary’s Catering 419-953-1866
Try Our Food Truck For Your Rehearsal Dinner, Reception Or Other Special Event
You Can Also Schedule Carryout Or Dine In At Either Of Our 2 Locations Coldwater Covington 301 E. Troy Pike, Covington 937-753-1062
107 S. 2nd St., Coldwater 419-763-4174 • 419-763-4129
Community
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Your Place for a Great PartY & Pizza! Dining Room AvAilAble For Rehearsal Dinners, Parties, or Any Event Call for Details Regarding Large Orders
212 N. Main Pleasant Hill 937-676-2624 Open Wed. & Thurs. 4-9 • Fri. 4-10 Sat. 11-10 • Sun. 4-8 CLOSED MON. & TUES.
AS YOU START YOUR NEW LIFE TOGETHER LET ME FIND YOUR PERFECT HOME
Feel Like a Guest At Your Own Party! Weddings • Graduations • Corporate Events Anniversaries • Birthday Parties • Fundraisers Christmas Parties • Celebrations ••• Full Place settings Provided ••• Creating SpeCial MeMorieS For groupS oF 50 to 1,000!
Call the Professional Caterers Today!
937-548-8144 Greenville, Ohio Unique Gifts For Your Wedding Or Any Special Occasion Paragon Health
Rock & Gem Shop ~ Flexible Hours • CALL ~
419.260.6007 Janell Havenar ®
jhavenar@brunsrealty.com
REALTOR
550 MOTE DR., SUITE 1, COVINGTON, OHIO 937-473-2755 Covington-dental.com
Get a camera-ready SMILE for your BIG DAY!
937- 447-7705 8736 Gettysburg SE Rd., Gettysburg, Ohio Make sure to schedule your furry friend’s pampering ahead of time
17 N. Main St.,
Teeth Whitening, Cosmetic Dentistry & Invisalign DR. ZACH STUEVE
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Pleasant Hill, Ohio Owner/Groomer Becky Christman
937-676-2194
FULL SERVICE
455 NORTH HERMAN ST. NEW BREMEN
TUXEDO RENTAL
419-629-2409
Rent 5 Tuxes, Get Groom’s Tux Free
Call us for all your catering needs and to schedule wedding party activities.
HOURS: MONDAY-THURSDAY 9-6
FRIDAY 9-8
SATURDAY 9-5
Conveniently Located In Downtown Sidney 937•492•0198
132 S. MAIN • SIDNEY
RAINBOW A��������� S�������, ���. DID YOU GET MARRIED OR HAVE ANOTHER LIFE EVENT? You can live happily ever after with the right financial & tax foundation.
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Melissa Bowman, EA 111 N. Bridge St. Gettysburg, Ohio
Deadlines & Details
THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN PLANNING A WEDDING. TO ENSURE SUCCESS — AND YOUR SANITY — THE KEY IS ORGANIZATION. WE’VE COMPILED A DETAILED CHECKLIST THAT PAYS SPECIAL ATTENTION TO TIME-SENSITIVE DEADLINES, SO YOU CAN CREATE A FOOLPROOF CALENDAR AND TO-DO LIST. 28
12 months + Select date, time and place. Then reserve venues! Decide on wedding size and style. Hire wedding consultant (if applicable) and create wedding website. Shop for gown. Begin guest list. 9-12 months Research honeymoon destinations. Book musicians, DJ, florist, photographer, videographer and limousines. Order invitations. Purchase gown and begin alterations. Ask friends to be in wedding party and order bridesmaid dresses. 6-9 months Finalize guest list and send save-the-date cards. Book appointments for hair, nails and makeup. Reserve attire for groom and groomsmen. Order cake(s). Purchase rings. 3-6 months Secure bridal accessories (such as shoes, jewelry, garter and mementos). Give musicians a list of songs you want them to play (or to avoid). Make food choices with venue. 2 months Mail invitations. 1 month Give photographer a list of pictures you want taken. 1 week Give final head count to reception venue. The day before Hold rehearsal ceremony and dinner. Deliver everything to site and work out any kinks. Give marriage license to officiant. Present gifts to wedding party, parents and any other honored guests. The day of Give rings and officiant’s fee to best man. Designate liaison for photographer to ensure all necessary pictures are taken. EXHALE! NOTE: Larger cities have long waiting lists for wedding vendors so you may need to act sooner!
Banquets • Weddings • Receptions 309 S. Main St., Botkins, Ohio
937-693-6325 Call Taylor at 937-489-9292
The Riviera Room STILLWATER VALLEY GOLF CLUB
UP TO 250 GUESTS RENTAL INCLUDES: • BARTENDERS • CLEAN UP • TABLES & CHAIRS FOR ADDITIONAL FEE: • STILLWATER CATERING • OUTDOOR CEREMONY • REFRESHMENTS • LINEN NAPKINS & TABLE CLOTHS
REFER TO THIS AD AND RECEIVE
F F $50 O A SCHEDULED RENTAL
Contact Us To Make A Reservation
(937) 526-3041 Stillwatervalleygolfclub.com
9235 Seibt Road, Versailles, OH 45380
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