issue 8 Winter 2012
Home for the Holidays
issue
in this ... features
Cupcake Clash!
21
trying cupcakes and voting for the best
Holiday Wedding!
24
the pros and cons of having a holiday wedding
Follow the Bride!
26
follow our real bride on her wedding planning journey
in every issue letter from the editor........................6 wedding day countdown...................8 Q & A.............................................10 the hotlist.......................................10 date night.......................................12 d.i.y. spotlight.................................92 professional spotlight......................94 seven things to love.......................110
more
contents...
15
Style & Beauty
something old, something borrowed - vintage fur and jewelry getting ready at home
28 Stationery & Favors a very merry thank you evergreen seedling
32 Forgotten Details a post-wedding brunch - with family
35 Venue Spotlight the garden gables inn - lenox, ma
45 Behind the Scenes
behind the lense - details that make the shoot
49 Wedding Inspiration home for the holidays - norman rockwell’s “freedom from want”
55 Planning
seating your guests - family style music for a christmas wedding
62 Destination & Honeymoon a ski honeymoon - four seasons
72 Real Weddings & Engagements caroline & jeff - engage josephine & dino - wed
editor’s note ISSUE 8 Home for the Holidays Dear Readers, We love this time of year! The Christmas trees are up at all the stores. There is a chill in the air. People are getting ready to put up their lights and are ready to celebrate. The holidays are coming! The holiday season is so much fun and there is always so much to do. Enjoy hot chocolate, turkey, and Christmas music. It is a great time to be home with your family and closest friends. In this issue, that is the idea. We took a look at many ways that a wedding can take on that “Home for the Holidays” feel, from borrowing your grandmother’s vintage furs to seating your guests family style and more. We hope you all enjoy your holiday season and wish you the very best. Spend your holidays with the ones you love!
xoxo, Jason and Heather
Editor-in-Chief Jason Kimble
Executive Editor/Creative Director Heather Kimble
Photography Contributors Jim Cottingham Carrie Gromis
Style Contributor Jeannine Comito
Beauty Contributor
Would you like to be a beauty contributor? Email us!
Music Contributor Nick Doak
Wedding Planner Contributor Michelle Tortuya
Honeymoon Contributor Carlie Finch
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Media, Press, & Events hkimble@itsaboutdetails.com
wedding day countdown
12 Months
4-3 Months
-Decide on your wedding budget and who’s contributing. -Appraise and insure your engagement ring. -Decide your wedding style and colors. -Choose your wedding date and time. -Interview and hire a wedding planner. -Start envisioning your wedding dress.
-Choose and order groomsmen attire. -Choose and order grooms attire. -Research and choose a rehearsal dinner site. -Choose and reserve all tables, chairs, and any other wedding rentals. -Make all your honeymoon reservations-airfare, hotel for your wedding night. -Put together hotel and city information for out- of-town guests.
9 Months -Choose your bridal party, ring bearer, flower girl, ceremony reader, etc. -Interview and hire a caterer. Begin planning your reception menu. -Finalize guest list. -Decide on your wedding officiant. -Look into any family customs or cultural traditions. -Research centerpieces, flowers, décor, etc. -Start your gift registry.
2-3 Months
-Purchase your accessories-jewelry, tiara, garter etc. -Purchase wedding bands. -Decide on your favors. -Purchase all your under the dress essentials and take them to your dress fittings. -Decide on special ceremony songs & readings. -Book wedding day transportation.
6-8 Months
6 Weeks
-Choose and order bridesmaids’ dresses. -Choose and order your wedding dress and veil. -Research and book vendors, eg. florist, baker, DJ, photographer etc. -Set aside blocks of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. -Order and send out save-the-dates. -Research and buy wedding insurance. -Order your wedding invitations and wedding announcements.
-Send out wedding invitations -Order ceremony programs and decide on your wedding vows. -Submit your newspaper wedding announcement. -Research local marriage license requirements. -Schedule hair and makeup trial appointments. -Purchase entire bridal party, parent gifts etc. -Purchase and send out rehearsal dinner invitations.
3-4 Weeks -Purchase ceremony accessories. -Confirm honeymoon reservations. -Pick up marriage license and your wedding dress. -Meet with your officiant & musicians and/or DJ to go over details. -Create a wedding day schedule. -Have your bridal potraits and/or boudoir photog- raphy session. -Schedule wedding day hair and makeup appointments.
1-2 Weeks -Call guests who have not RSVP’d and make seating arrangements. -Confirm all details with your reception site. -Give guest count & confirm all details with your caterer and baker -Determine your receiving line. -Confirm all details with vendors etc. -Pack for your wedding night and honeymoon. -Put final payments and tips for vendors in marked envelopes.
Day Before -Designate someone to mail out your wedding announcements on the wedding day. -Pull together your wedding dress, all accessories, and emergency kit. -Designate someone to drop off items to ceremony and reception sites -Get manicure and pedicure. -Enjoy your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner! -Set your alarm!
Wedding Day -Tell your parents how much you love them and thank them. -Set aside time after your ceremony to have a private moment together. -Enjoy your Wedding Day!
Q&A Q- We are having a winter wedding. What happens if there is severe inclement weather? A- If there is a chance of severe inclement weather on your wedding (or the days leading up to), you should definitely purchase wedding insurance, check out WedSafe. It will protect your investment in the wedding and you can simply postpone your wedding until the weather is clear. Also, look into purchasing vacation insurance so you don’t lose your honeymoon due to the severe inclement weather. In terms of notifying vendors and wedding guests, have a plan. In addition to you and your fiancé, ask parents, a family member, or close friend to help contact all the vendors and guests. Each of you should have a different list and just start calling. Do not email! You want to make sure they receive the important information. Also, make sure you discuss a postponement plan with all of your vendors before severe inclement weather hits.
If you would like to have your questions answered, please send them to info@itsaboutdetails.com.
Vintage Flare!
“Get the cover look! A simple cream colored 1950s inspired dress and pearl accessories with a pop of glittery, red pumps. Finish off the look with red nails and lips.”
-Heather Kimble Executive Editor/Creative Director
1
Cream Cap Sleeve Swing Kristy Dress Unique Vintage
2
al la mode Something Borrowed Bride
3
Multi-Strand Pearlescent Necklace Forever 21
4
Mega Last Spotlight Red Wet n Wild
5
Chunky Glitter Platform Pump Charlotte Russe
the hotlist 2 1
3
4 5
date night
Picking a Christmas Tree One holiday tradition that can become a great date night is picking out a Christmas tree. Whether you do this as a couple or with the whole family, it can be a lot of fun. So grab your mittens, a cup of hot chocolate, turn on some Christmas tunes, and have a great time! Here are 4 things to look for when you are picking out your tree. 1. Height: Make sure you measure the space where you are placing the tree. Keep in mind the height of the tree topper. 2. Type: Make sure you know the breed of tree you are looking at and the breed of tree you want. Some breeds last longer or are better for certain household conditions. 3. Needle resiliency: Make sure you touch the branches. If the tree is losing a lot of needles when the branches are being handled, this is a sign that it may not last very long. Also test the strength of the branches to ensure it will hold the weight of your ornaments. 4. Smell and Color: Smell the tree. If the tree is healthy, it should have a strong pine tree fragrance. It should also have a nice color to it. If the color is off or going towards a browner color, the trees life is on the decline. And don’t forget, there is nothing wrong with shopping around. Check out more than one place if you aren’t happy with the trees available. Lastly, always make sure to secure your tree well before you leave the lot with it.
style & beauty
Getting Ready...
at Home
G
etting ready on your big day is usually a part of the day that is to be spent taking in the experience and the feelings of the monumental day that you are now marking in your life. Usually it is spent with some of your closest friends and loved ones, reminiscing and just having a good time before you take the walk down the aisle and start life anew as a couple. One thing you can do that can make this day special, especially when thinking of family, is to get ready at your childhood home. This is a great place to get ready because it is relaxing and familiar. It also is a great reminder of the life you have lead up until this point. It helps make you feel warm and special to remember all the great times you have had there. You can even get a nice small catered lunch or snacks to serve while getting ready to make it even more of a good time. There are some other advantages as well as some disadvantages to having a catered lunch or snack. One of the advantages is that many brides like to follow the tradition of spending that last night before marriage at their childhood home. It is symbolic of the child leaving of the nest and going out into the world. If you are spending the night at your parents, you won’t have to worry about travelling to the place you will be getting ready. You won’t have to worry about forgetting anything either, as you can start storing your dress and other necessary items there before the big day, unlike at your venue, when you will have to take everything with you the morning of the wedding. Another thing to consider is that it is often times less expensive to get ready at your childhood home. Renting a hotel room near your venue is usually not cheap, and since most weddings take place on a weekend you will be paying peak price. Many venues have places to get ready, but there are some that charge an extra fee for the use of that space. Plus there is the fact that these spaces, while they are very nice, are impersonal and lose that feeling of home. One of the chief disadvantages to getting ready at your childhood home is the trip from the home to the venue. Whether you rent a limo or have someone drive you, you will have to make that trip once you are 100% ready to go. That means primping when you get to the venue. You will also have to ensure your mode of transport will accommodate your dress as many of the wider ball gowns may not fit in a conventional vehicle. This plan, of course, only works if your childhood home is not too far from the venue. At the end of the day no matter where you get ready, you will have a great wedding. However, keep in mind that sometimes there really is no place like home.
Something old, Something borrowed - vintage fur and jewelry -
A
wedding day is a special day that is coupled with family and togetherness. It is a day that is full of love and happiness. It is a day full of tradition. One of these very special traditions that some brides follow is the tradition of wearing a mother’s or grandmother’s gown. This tradition doesn’t work for every bride though. Maybe the dress isn’t your style. Maybe they don’t have their dress anymore. How can you pay homage to your loved ones when you can’t, or don’t want to, wear their dress? There are a lot of things you can borrow from a relative that can be used with your gown on your big day. This is a great way for you to honor your mother or grandmother or even an aunt, anyone that you are close to. At this time of year, one thing that particularly perfect with the cold weather is a nice fur coat or shawl. Fur was really at the height of popularity in the 20’s and 30’s, so there is a chance that there is a grandmother or even a great-grandmothers fur that could be used for your wedding. Dark colored fur coats always look great in contrast with a beautiful white wedding dress. Another option that may be even easier to come by is using the jewelry of a relative. Maybe your grandmother has a nice set of pearls that goes great with your dress. Or maybe you have a relative that has a great ring to use as a right hand ring. Another great choice could be a pair of diamond studs that have been in the family as well. Even a broach or a pin can be incorporated into your wedding day ensemble. The possibilities are endless.
Borrowing something from a loved one on your big day is a great way to honor that loved one, whether they are living or have passed on. It is a way to include that loved one in your wedding in a particularly special way. Not only that, but it takes care of the “something old” and “something borrowed” from the old English rhyme, “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in her shoe.” So when you are figuring out how you want to accessorize on your wedding day, don’t forget to look at some of the hidden treasures a family member might have to offer. Sometimes the best accessories aren’t bought in the store. One more thing, if you are scared to ask your family member to borrow something for you wedding day, don’t be. If you are close with the person, they will be honored that you asked them.
events
features
&competitions
If you would like it’s about details to attend or cover your event email Heather at hkimble@itsaboutdetails.com.
Chester County
CUPCAKE CLASH
O
n September 20th, cupcake bakers from all over Chester County squared off to find out who makes the best cupcake. Voters came from all over the county to taste the cupcakes and vote on their favorites in 3 different categories; chocolate, vanilla, and themed. In the end when the dust settled, the winners were crowned. The cupcakes were tremendous, as was the turn out for the event. The winners were determined by 100 judges who kept a record of their scores which were then tabulated to select a winner. The judges were people who signed up ahead of time and were from all over the county. The best part for us, we got to a part of the judging crew. With so many cupcakes, choosing a favorite was nearly impossible. The only thing harder then picking a favorite was saving room to eat all of the cupcakes. The cupcakes were judged on appearance, taste, moistness, and texture with scores given for each category. We worked as a team going from table to table with our score cards, sampling each cupcake and then taking a moment to reflect on each aspect that the score was to reflect. When it was all said and done, the winners were Cakes and Candies by Maryellen for both the chocolate and vanilla categories and Dia Doce in the themed category. Really though, the real winners truly were the judges since we got to eat them all. I know we had a great time and left feeling like we had won the best prize. Winning and losing wasn’t all this was about however; all proceeds from the event went to help the charity Bringing Hope Home. Bringing Hope Home is a non-profit foundation that helps support families of people who are fighting cancer. Not only do they help support the family emotionally but they help the family financially by paying the families bills while the patient is undergoing treatment. They are there when the families need them most. Dealing with the disease is hard enough, and this gives the patient and the family the peace of mind knowing they are not alone in the fight and that someone is there to help them meet their financial obligations.
Holiday Wedding -the pros and cons-
Even with a list of pros and cons it’s YOUR (and of course your fiancé’s too!) decision and wedding! The most important part at the end of the day is that you and your fiancé love each other and get married!
Pros – • Your anniversary will feel even more special! • Festive and happy time of year with all the lights, music, and food! • Many venues are usually cheaper, because it’s off-peak wedding season! • It’s the time of year families get together anyway!
Cons – • Some guests may need to choose between your wedding and their family. • Scheduling conflict with your anniversary and parties, family get-togethers, kid’s pageants, etc. • Some winter weather may cause problems for your big day. • Some vendors may cost more and be in a higher demand like caterers, DJs, and florists.
Follow the Bride! Our Real Bride Josephine is MARRIED! Be sure to check out her real wedding on page 83!
Engagement Date - August 8th, 2010
Wedding Date - August 31st, 2012 By Jeannine Comito
Advice from the bride…
D
o what YOU want. We got wrapped up in making everyone else happy since our parents helped pay for the reception. The invite list started to get out of control as a result and we felt a lot of pressure with respect to that. Hold your ground on what you want because when all of the planning is done/money is spent and your day comes, you want to make sure you are happy. Don’t forget what the day is all about – it’s not about impressing the guests and inviting people just for the sake of inviting them – it’s about the couple, their love for each other and who they want to share that with. After the wedding, Josephine and Dino went to Mexico for their honeymoon and stayed at Secrets Maroma. Their stay was amazing! The couple though about honeymooning overseas in Italy or Greece, but after thinking about the travel time, time change and sightseeing they would do they decided to go somewhere closer and relax on the beaches. Now that all is over and the couple is back to reality, what has changed? According to Mrs. Josephine Fiorentino, nothing; they do however have more time on their hands now that they are not planning anymore. “After our honeymoon we made a promise to each other that we’d make it a point to take a get-away once a year every year to enjoy some time off and relax!”
stationery & favors
Mr. and Mrs. Holiday Magnet Cards from www.magnetstreet.com A great way for newlyweds to send out their Holiday cards! Your family and friends will definitely LOVE them!
Evergreen Seedling One of the great things about having a wedding during the holiday season is that there are so many unique and fun favors that fit the theme and the time of year. One idea that we particularly liked is a favor guests can cherish for years to come. An evergreen tree seedling is a great gift and will stay with the family for years to come. And seeing the tree growing as your marriage continues to grow will help instill the memory of your big day in their minds and hearts. It is also a green solution to the wedding favor, since there really isn’t anything to dispose of, and it will add another beautiful tree to the environment. One important tip to go along with this favor idea is to include instructions on the care of the seedling. Not everyone has a green thumb and will know what to do with the seedling. It is also important that the seedling is planted at the right time of year after the wedding so that it does not die. Here is a sample note that you may want to provide with your seedling favors. “Plant your Evergreen during the winter months in soil that is well drained. Ensure that you pick a location that the tree will receive full sunlight and that the area is large enough (both width and height) to accommodate the tree as it grows. Make sure the tree has enough moisture throughout the first year of growth, and do not fertilize it until after the second year of growth. Only prune to remove dead branches.�
forgotten details
a post-wedding
brunch
There really isn’t a right or wrong answer when it comes to a post-wedding brunch and there is no rule that you must have one. However, if you decide you would like to spend quality time with family and close friends the day after your wedding, we have some helpful tips and advice for you!
Who’s invited? - Your family and out-of-town guests are typically invited. However, if your budget allows invite your close friends too!
Who Host’s? - Generally the bride’s family or the groom’s family host. But friends or the couple can host too!
Where to have it? - Wherever fits your budget and style. It could be at a local restaurant, a family member’s house, hometown diner, chic lounge, or your place!
How to invite guests? - Invitations can be as informal or as formal as you would like, a handwritten note or a letterpress invitation. Just make sure you give your out-of-town guests enough notice!
What type of foods and drinks? - The sky is basically the limit with food and drink choice. Two great options are the more traditional brunch or a cocktail brunch. • Traditional brunch: Food may include an omelet station, Belgium waffles, fresh baked goods, fresh fruit, pasta station, and steak. Drinks may include coffee and assorted juices. • Cocktail brunch: Food may include smoked salmon with bacon, crepe station, frittatas, fresh fruit, and grilled vegetables. Drinks may include coffee, assorted juices, selection of teas, mimosas, and champagne with strawberries.
venue spotlight
The Garden Gables Inn “Feelings of intense relaxation.� www.gardengablesinn.com 888-243-0193 135 Main St. PO Box 52, Lenox, MA 01240
W
e were lucky enough to have the chance to tour this beautiful venue last October, when we were doing our tour of the Lenox, MA Region. The property is a beautiful place to host a wedding, and the staff members we met while on our tour were really accommodating, even in the short time we were there. It appeared like the people that worked there were only happy when the guests they were hosting were content. They even had hot apple cider waiting for us when we arrived! All of the rooms were very pretty and well put together. One thing that really stood out was the way that the venue truly felt like a home away from home. Even though it is a full service inn, it still felt like home and the staff treated you like family that had just come to visit. It was a great experience!
When planning a wedding that encapsulates that warm, home-like feeling, one of the key pieces to the puzzle is the venue. There are some venues that just don’t capture that “at home” feeling that some brides are looking to obtain. That is not the case when considering the Garden Gables Inn. The Inn is an intimate venue that is warm, inviting, and allows you to truly capture the feeling of home. Built in 1780, the Garden Gables Inn was actually a home. It didn’t become an inn until 1947, when it was purchased for a mere $10,000. It has undergone many transformations since its initial construction in 1780 and is now a 15 room inn with 2 suites, featuring 5 beautiful acres of property, full of gardens, trees, and beautiful scenery. It has a small commercial kitchen with an onsite chef, which is also open for outside catering. The Inn does not sell alcohol but the bride and groom are more than welcome to bring in their own alcohol. The owners of the Inn also own one of the Berkshire’s leading farm wineries and their award winning wine which is available for purchase for your big day. The bride and groom are able to get ready in Room 8 which is a private room that allows them to prepare for the big day in peace. Most brides and grooms choose the Inn for their big day because of its superb location in the heart of Lenox, its beautiful property, and its high level of service. The Garden Gables Inn offers 4 star amenities and is willing to do almost anything to make any big day a great one. Wedding ceremonies can take place on the great lawn or small ceremonies can be held inside the facility. Brides and Grooms are encouraged to take over the Inn and use all of it for their big day creating a memorable place for guests to stay before and after the wedding. One of the most important things to remember about the Inn is the level of service that can and will be provided. They have gone as far as having the Innkeeper iron a bride’s veil when it became wrinkled. They will make sure every need is met and every expectation is exceeded.
behind the scenes
all in the details Hair/Makeup: Kristen Bonifas of Mack Stylist Models: Elizabeth Van Osten Tim Sansone Dress: Unique Vintage Glass Ornaments: Eva E. Glassworks Fabric Backdrop: The Interior Alternative
wedding inspiration
planning
Seating your guests
– family style C
reating intimate, family-style seating arrangements for your wedding guests is a fun way to personalize your big day and allow guests to feel super comfortable and cozy. Remember those family dinners on holidays that brought warmth and familiarity? Replicate that feeling by using different sized tables, accessories and tabletop pieces. If your venue or other wedding location charges extra for non-round tables at the reception, consider having a mix of both round and rectangular, which looks very pretty and still provides an intimate feel. Also, if your budget doesn’t allow room for specialty rentals such as settees for the ceremony, you can still create a comfortable seating setting with ideas below. Here are some ideas to consider when putting together your perfect seating for ceremony and reception guests:
Ceremony:
• Place chairs in a circle or semi-circle arrangement, around the space of the ceremony • Instead of placing flowers on aisle chairs only, Decorate each chair with ribbon, signs or individual flowers/elements so that each guest feels treated special. We have tied personalized programs on the chairs, attached bows, placed notes on the cushion and more, to ensure a fun welcome to guests as they take their seat before the start of the ceremony • Use pews, couches or long benches for guests to sit. Add pretty and comfortable cushions, pillow and/or blankets for added charm • Invite guests to stand during the ceremony, surrounding you and your bride/ groom – this is super intimate and perfect for a small wedding • For cocktail hour, vignettes of small couches, side tables and lounge chairs make a very welcome spot and adds to the character of any space
Reception:
• Use long, rectangular tables throughout the space, which can fit more guests, instead of the typical round tables, which seat 8-12. This saves on overall room space and you can get very creative with table décor, such as grouping various vessels for flowers, using lots of candlelight and candleholders, table runners, place mats and more. • If you are having a small wedding, use a mix and match of chairs, to create a more “rustic” and casual look
• Nix the sweetheart or head table, you both can sit among the guests – such as the parent • Use décor elements that reflect your personalities and tastes for surrounding areas. Platters and dishes from home, pictures in frames, and favorite candles and flowers can be displayed throughout the space • Paper goods can be personalized to include guest names and place cards, for more of a dinner-party feel Most importantly, have fun with creating a space and layout that works for you! Guests will appreciate the creativity and thoughtfulness of taking their comfort into consideration and you will enjoy a family-style seating that reflects your favorite things.
made u look photography
• Display family-portion dinner on bowls, platters, etc. on the table so guests can serve themselves
Music for a ChristmasWedding By Nick Doak
December is here and you are singing, “I’m dreaming of a…white wedding!” Here are five tips regarding the music for your Christmas wedding. • While the guests are being seated and awaiting your grand entrance, you’ll want to have music playing as a prelude to the service. Selecting the right music that compliments your style is crucial in setting the tone of the evening for your family and friends. You may find traditional carols and spritely classical music will create the appropriate ambiance you are looking for on your big day. • Not feeling Christmas carols for your walk down the aisle? That’s okay! Perhaps, choosing a favorite popular song between you and your partner will suit your style best. • Be careful when selecting the songs for your ceremony. Make sure to match the songs to the appropriate instrumentation as well as the venue. Certain songs might not be suitable depending on what instrumentalist you hire and the size and location of the ceremony. Some suggestions for instrumentation are piano, classical guitar, harp, string/brass/woodwind quartet, and a combination thereof. • When the ceremony is over, it is time to recess to the cocktail hour. Music for the cocktail hour should be smooth, relaxing, and festive. Jazz arrangements of Christmas tunes are sure to set a lounge atmosphere at your wedding, perfect for cocktail hour. • The dinner is finished and now, let the dancing commence! Since your wedding is during a special time of the year, it is encouraged to mix in a few Christmas pop tunes between the wedding dance standards to add some holiday flavor to your reception. Below, you’ll find possible holiday song selections for the ceremony and reception for your Christmas wedding.
Ceremony Pre-service
“O Holy Night” – A. Adam “Silent Night” – F.X. Gruber “O Come All Ye Faithful” – J.F. Wade
“Panis Angelicus” - C. Franck
Recessional
Bridal Party Processional
Bride Processional
“Joy to the World” – G.F. Handel
“Jesu, Joy for a Man’s Desire” – J.S. Bach
Reception Cocktail Hour
Song: “Carol of the Bells” Artist: John Tesh Song: “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” Artist: Deschanel/Redbone's duet Song: “The Christmas Song” Artist: Nat King Cole Song: “White Christmas” Artist: Bing Crosby Song: ‘What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve? Artist: Ella Fitzgerald Song: “O Tannenbaum” Artist: Vince Guaraldi Song: “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” Artist: Chris Martin Song: “When My Heart Finds Christmas” Artist: Harry Connick Jr. Song: “Favorite Things” Artist: John Coltrane Song: “Christmas Waltz” Artist: Frank Sinatra
Dancing Song: “Run Run Rudolf ” Artist: Chuck Berry Song: “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” Artist: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band Song: “Christmas Wrapping” Artist: The Waitresses Song: “Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home)” Artist: Darlene Love Song: “Christmas Tree” Artist: Lady Gaga Song: “All I Want For Christmas Is You” Artist: Mariah Carey Song: “Last Christmas” Artist: Cascada Song: “Carol of the Bells” Artist: Family Force 5
Song: “Feliz Navidad” Artist: José Feliciano Song: “Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays Artist: *NSYNC
destination & honeymoon
A Ski
Honeymoon By Carlie Finch
W
ith the Sea-to-Sky Highway, getting to Whistler is part of the getaway experience. Once you've arrived, there's romantic scenery, natural beauty and outdoor adventure for everyone. Ski over glaciers, zip through a rainforest or ride gondolas from mountaintop to mountaintop.
Experience North America’s top year-round mountain resort wrapped in Four Seasons warmth and intuitive care. This is a sample itinerary, but with a quick call or visit to the Concierge, a personalized British Columbia vacation itinerary can be tailored to your specific tastes.
DAY 1 – JOURNEY TO WHISTLER
Now that you're settled, it's time to explore all that Whistler, BC has to offer.
Morning -
• Start your first day right by visiting the hearty breakfast buffet at Sidecut. • Once you've had your fill, take advantage of the Ski Lite program at the Mountain Product Store adjacent to the restaurant. • The Resort offers head-to-toe clothing, plus equipment rentals, so you don't have to lug heavy gear from home. • Take the free shuttle to the base of Blackcomb, where your Ski Concierge awaits, helping you with your ski boots and offering tips on the day's best ski runs.
Afternoon -
• Ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains and experience the highest, fastest and longest unsuspended gondola in the world. • Download from either Whistler or Blackcomb Mountain at the end of the day and leave your equipment with our Ski Concierge for hassle-free après-ski time in the Village.
Evening -
• Unwind in one of the Resort’s three outdoor whirlpools or in its heated swimming pool. • Indulge in a homemade chocolate chip cookie and a glass of champagne poolside. • Experience Sidecut, the new Four Seasons modern steak restaurant featuring AAA Canadian prime steak, dryaged 40 days and cooked on an 1,800-degree infrared grill. Pair custom rubs and sauces with your choice of steak, fish or regional specialties, such as venison with Blueberry Hill rub.
DAY 2 – FUN ON OR OFF THE SLOPES
Today you'll experience the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, Four Seasons-style.
Morning -
• If 3,237 hectares (8,000 acres) of skiable terrain isn't enough, a heli-skiing tour gives you access to 174,014 hectares (430,000 acres) of powder. Our knowledgeable concierge team can happily arrange this outing for you. • If heli-skiing sounds like too much exhilaration for one day, try a snowshoeing tour around scenic Lost Lake.
Afternoon -
• Soothe those tired muscles at the Spa with the relaxing Sea-to-Sky massage. Stretching and hot stones restore muscles, preparing you for another day of adventure. Or revitalize skin with our signature BC Glacial Clay treatment, which uses vitamin-enriched heated clay and wild organic seaweed to leave your skin glowing.
Evening -
• For dinner tonight, try Araxi restaurant in the heart of the Village. Araxi features a raw bar and a live tank of Maritime lobster and BC Dungeness crab.
DAY 3 – IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE SKIING Take a break from the ski hills and explore alternative outdoor activities in the area. You won't be disappointed.
Morning -
• Order your first meal of the day using In-Room Dining service and enjoy a leisurely breakfast in bed. • Next, pick up the pace and spend an invigorating morning being pulled by a dog-sled team, or zipping through ancient forests on a snowmobile. • Explore the pedestrian-friendly village of Whistler and visit the shops and cafés that line the stroll.
Afternoon -
• Try zip lining at Wild Play, where you can race each other along parallel lines while taking in incredible scenery. • Wild Play’s longest line is 457 metres (1,500 feet) long and 122 metres (400 feet) high, and zip liners travel up to 100 kilometres (62 miles) per hour.
Evening -
• Tonight, enjoy a laid-back dinner at Fifty Two 80 Bistro and Bar, where you can relax by the fireplace and sip a specialty cocktail with dinner. • During the winter, a dedicated Ski Concierge is available to simplify your activities on the mountain, providing customized rentals, equipment transfers and direct ski lift access. • Arrive at the Ski Concierge and you will be welcomed and presented with dry boots, skis/boards, poles and other equipment such as helmets. For ease and convenience, enjoy transportation between the Resort and the Ski Concierge, and from the Ski Concierge to the base of Whistler Mountain. The Ski Concierge can arrange ski rentals through the Mountain Products Store, on the main floor of the Resort.
SKI PROGRAMS Ski Lite program -
With this program, you can pack light for your winter getaway. Guests will be suited up from head to toe in skiwear, such as designer wear from Prada and Spyder, at the Whistler Blackcomb Mountain Products store located on the lower level of the lobby. To ensure ultimate carving on the hill, the Ski Lite program also includes high-performance rental equipment featuring Salomon, Rossignol and K2 skis and Burton boards. For more information on skiing equipment, please contact the Concierge.
OTHER ACTIVITIES Fresh Tracks breakfast -
Fresh Tracks offers early birds a mountain-sized breakfast buffet and early loading privileges. Upload to the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain between 7:30 am and 8:30 am. As soon as Whistler Ski Patrol gives the okay on avalanche clearance, you are free to hit the open runs on the upper half of the mountain.
Dog sledding -
Huskies pull a sled through the spectacular Soo Valley. Expect an adventure through Whistler's backwoods and snow-covered forests. Dog sledding is fun for the whole family.
Ice climbing -
Take some crampons and ice tools and join a professional guide for a day of waterfall ice climbing.
Ice skating -
Enjoy indoor ice skating or drop-in hockey at Whistler's Meadow Park Sports Centre. Skate rentals are available; hockey equipment is not provided.
Snow Cat tour -
Climb on board the best winter snow vehicle and charge up the mountain for a few hours. A gourmet fondue dinner awaits you at the top in a cozy, secluded cabin. Snowmobiling Exhilarating snowmobile adventures take you off the beaten track. Tours are available for all levels and include qualified guides.
Snowshoeing -
Trek along tranquil forest trails on snowshoes.
Sleigh ride -
Join in on a cozy sleigh ride through a winter wonderland. Some tours include bonfires and hot chocolate or fondue.
Winter fishing -
Fish in the warmer elevations of Squamish and the Lillooet River Valleys as you cast out trout, Dolly Varden, char, and steelhead.
Bald eagle viewing -
The mountains seasonally feature the highest concentration of bald eagles in the world, as they are drawn to the river corridor to feast on thousands of spawning salmon. Travel 45 minutes south of Whistler for a guided walking tour or a gentle raft trip and witness these magnificent birds.
real weddings & engagements
Caroline & Jeff November 18th, 2011
Photography - Cheryl Joy Photography Concept & Design - Dairing Events
Jeff and Caroline met in February of 2010 in a gym. They both are passionate about fitness and have degree is Exercise Science. Jeff's pick up line was, "Hey, the rag and spray bottle are over there!" Caroline was doing cardio and was super sweaty. She’s still not sure how that line worked on her, but she is sure glad it did. Jeff and Caroline had their first date on April the 10th, 2010. Jeff proposed to Caroline during a family get together on November 18th, 2011. Jeff lured Caroline on to the dock with the promise of s'mores for the bonfire and then popped the question! They had all of their Florida family and friends there to celebrate with them. They later got to celebrate with their Colorado family at Christmas. Jeff and Caroline were wed on September 2nd, 2012. CONGRATS to you both!
-10 Things they love about one anotherJeff
loves...
the way she cares for others. that she can bake! that she is passionate about dance and fitness. her eyes and her laugh! that she is so supportive of me.
Caroline
loves...
that he always prays and never worries. that he can cook better than me! that he LOVES to help people achieve their goals. that he makes me feel adored and valued! his unique sense of humor.
Josephine & Dino August 18th, 2012
A
fter two years of being engaged and planning this big Italian wedding, Josephine Cannuscio, our bride that “It’s About Details” has been following since March 2012 has finally married Dino Fiorentino. Most of the details surrounding the wedding have been shared through the pages of the magazine. So how did the day turn out? Before the wedding day, Josephine and Dino made some last minute additions to their wedding day supplies. The most important last minute decision they made was renting a second limo for Dino and the groomsmen. The original plan was to have the same limo that was picking up the girls (at one location) pick up the guys (at a second location). By renting a separate limo, the entire bridal party made it to the church at the same time. Josephine was looking for a monogrammed hanger to display her wedding gown on. After her friends searched for one, she (Jo) found it on Etsy.com. On the day of the wedding, Josephine had planned to get ready at her own house and then go to her parents’ house; however after thinking it through she decided it would be less hectic to get ready and stay at her own house and have her parents come to her. The girls had their hair and make-up done, were dressed and headed to the church for a 1pm ceremony. After the ceremony, there was not a receiving line; the bridal party went to Historic Smithville, NJ to take pictures. The couple met with the photographer ahead of time to discuss the destinations, time allotted for the spot, and what shots they wanted. Josephine and Dino planned their time so accurately there was an hour in between the pictures and the cocktail hour start time. The couple had time to freshen up, Dino even took a shower. The newly Mr. & Mrs. spent most of the cocktail hour greeting their guests. The room that held the receiving line was also the holding place for the cards, gifts, name/place cards and favors. As for the wedding traditions, after the bridal party introductions, the couple did their father/daughter and mother/son dances to old folk Sicilian songs, picked by the parents of the bride/groom. The couple opted not to have a garter toss. They stated they had time for everything, and enjoyed their meals. As for the band, they met with the band ahead of time to ensure an awesome play list; and it was! Josephine did regret not having a “Thank You” speech prepared; she really wanted to personally thank all her family and friends. One take-away from the wedding were Apothecary Jars; they were filled with preserved roses (all bought on www.save-on-crafts. com) and their guests put wishes on index cards and placed them in the jars. Josephine and Dino have a special place at the stairway of their home to display these jars. After the wedding was done, Josephine claimed the experience was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. “It was great and exciting, but also extremely hectic especially trying to juggle a full time job with what seemed like a full-time wedding planning job at the same time!”
Ten Favorite Moments 1. Walking down the aisle 2. Time with the girls at her house before hand 3. Father/Daughter Dance 4. Dino’s “Thank You” to the guests, he even included Josephine for all her planning 5. Looking out at everyone 6. First Dance 7. Historic Smithville - Photos & Ice Cream Shots 8. Food, Music & Dancing 9. Walking down the stairs at her house to greet her dad (in her wedding gown) 10. Dino’s Gift - Swarovski Crystal Frame with a personal note inside
all in the details Dress: Kleinfeld Florist: Betina’s Florist Band: Oasis Church: St. Nicholas in Atlantic City Reception: SeaView Dolce Cinematography: Stomping Bread
Productions Limo Service: Bella Limousine Rolls Royce: First Class Limousine Hair Stylist: Hair Tech Salon
d.i.y spotlight
Wedding Invitation Ornament
From Glitter to Gumdrops
www.christyrobbins.blogspot.com Clear Glass Ornament Your Wedding Invitation Ribbon Charm Pen Scissors or Paper Cutter
Directions 1 Cut invitation into quarter inch strips. 2 Roll each strip around a pen with text facing out. 3 Take a glass ornament, and insert the curled strips into the ornament. 4 Add a charm and ribbon of your choice.
Our Review So EASY! It makes a very sweet and memorable keepsake. This is not only great for the wedding invitation, but also great for a bridal shower invitation. If you are attending a wedding this would be a nice gift to the couple!
professional spotlight
Cake Baker
SweeTreats Cake Boutique Owner: Wendi Saposnek E-Mail: wendi@eatsweetreats.com Website: www.eatsweetreats.com Phone: (717) 766-6123
Our Interview with......
Not only have we had the pleasure of meeting Wendi, but we also had the pleasure of working with her and eating her yummy sweetreats! She truly is a great baker and talented artist. Whether you’re an offbeat bride or a traditional bride, she can create something amazing for you. So, be sure to visit her website! You can also see more of her fabulous work in our Spring 2012 – Issue 5 here.
Tell us about yourself. Personality, likes, dislikes: As a mother of three, business owner and wife, it feels I’m always on the go; spending time with my family is important to me. I’m friendly and outgoing; I try to be upfront and honest with everyone. I get great satisfaction from making people happy.
How long have you been a cake baker? I have been making cakes for as long as I can remember. I started SweeTreats Cake Boutique in 2004.
What made you choose this profession? Influenced by my mother and grandmother, cooking, baking and entertaining have been a passion of mine since childhood.
Why did you start your own business? Before starting SweeTreats Cake Boutique, we operated a child care out of our home. I would make a cake each month for all of the children having birthdays. Parents started asking me to make cakes for them outside of the child care setting and SweeTreats Cake Boutique began.
What do you love most about being a cake baker? MY CLIENTS! The fact that I can be a part of their special day is amazing.
What services do you offer brides and grooms? SweeTreats Cake Boutique provides cakes of all shapes, sizes and flavors, individually packaged edible favors, dessert buffets and favor stations. Various display and serving items are available for rent such as jars, vases, vintage wares (milk glass), shabby chic furniture and serving-ware items, all at reasonable prices. We also offer a 10% Military Discount.
Melissa Teal Photography
What style(s) best describes your work? Because each wedding is unique, I don’t force my clients into a specific style. I create traditional cakes equally as well as more contemporarydesigns.
What are some of your favorite wedding memories? I recently attended a client’s wedding, my seat just happened to be near the cake table. The bride and groom cut into the topper cake and I immediately smelled the chocolate and peppermint and thought “that smells fabulous”. Ben and Andrea took a bite of each other’s piece, then Andrea looked over at me and said, “Wendi, oh my gosh, that’s amazing” with a huge grin from ear to ear. I can’t find the words to describe how incredibly over joyed I felt at that moment. It was truly a pleasure to be involved in their day in more ways than one.
What advice do you have for brides and grooms? No question is ever a bad question. I suggest meeting more than one vendor, find the right fit for you. This is your day and it should reflect YOU as the couple.
Tell us anything else you would like our brides and grooms to know about you and your business: SweeTreats Cake Boutique is available by appointment only. This will ensure a one on one personalized experience for each of our clients. In our studio we have cakes, cupcakes, cookies, various treats and rental serving ware items for tablescapes on display. I am fully committed to each client’s wants, needs, likes and dislikes. When you book SweeTreats Cake Boutique for your event, I am your “go-to” person from beginning to end. Clients regularly tell me I am not a typical “cake vendor”, if you need assistance with any portion of your event, I will do my best to assist in any way possible. My goal is to make sure you have the day that you deserve, one that will be memorable for all the right reasons.
Melissa Teal Photography
Revelation Photography
Delicate Portraits
Jeremy Bishcoff Photography
Melissa Teal Photography
Vivvy Photography
Melissa Teal Photography
Enlightened Styles - AR No need to rush around on your Wedding Day. On location Hairstylist and Makeup Artist comes to your home or hotel. We come to you to help make your Wedding Day Hair and Make up as relaxing as possible. You can sit back look and feel beautiful and enjoy your special Wedding Day.
Jim Cottingham Photography - NJ, PA Jim Cottingham Photography is one of Philadelphia and surrounding areas premiere photographers. Providing excellent quality and exceptional service from New York to DC. Fashion. Lifestyle. Commercial. Portrait. Event. Weddings Print. And so much more.
* Phone: 609-320-2146 * www.jimcottingham.com
* Phone: 540-560-2957 * www.enlightenedstyles.com
Bridal Brooch Bouquets - LA The memories of your wedding will last a lifetime, so can your bouquet! Let us create your something old, new, borrowed & blue brooch bouquet!
* Phone: 225-266-6575 * www.bridalbroochbouquets.com
JTD Productions - MA JTD Professional DJ Services has over 20 years experience creating just the right atmosphere for everything from elegant country weddings to all night dance fests. We have the experience, the insurance, the backup systems, everything. We free your mind, so you can have maximum fun on your big day or night.
* Phone: 845-853-8912 * www.jtdproductions.com
NY Artistry - NY
As a professional makeup artist with a lifetime of style and artistic vision, Dede, brings cutting-edge techniques and creative application in turning our undressed faces into beautiful ones. Whether you are looking for a subtle, natural look or a more dramatic one, she uses HD friendly products to create a perfect photo finish.
* Phone: 212-542-0414 * www.nyartistry.com
Maria Ramagli Beauty - NY, NJ, PA Providing full spectrum makeup artistry application and techniques for print, video, television, film, and freelance for bridal and all special event needs. Servicing NY, NJ and PA. Proficient in producing creative and technically perfect visual representations
* Phone: 856-425-6632 * www.mariaramagli.com
Love the Way You Wed - NJ, PA Love The Way You Wed offers Day of the Wedding coordination services. I am here to carry out those last minute details or hiccups that may arrise on your wedding day. With this, the bride and groom can feel like a guest at their own wedding.
* Phone: 856-404-4848 * www.lovethewayyouwed.com
Andrew Reiner Photography - NJ, PA Andrew Reiner Photography specializes in creative photojournalism style wedding photography. He takes pride in capturing all the unique colors, details, and emotions of your special day. Available in the Philadelphia/South Jersey area and for Destination weddings. Now booking for 2012-2013. Free e-session with booking.
* Phone: 609-332-6171 * www.andrewreiner.com
Kim Alicea Makeup Artistry - NJ, PA, DE I was born with a brush in my hand! Painting faces is my passion. I have been a Makeup Artist for 25 years. It’s my passion. It’s in my heart, my mind and my soul. I am the daughter of an artist/painter and the grandaughter of the same. Working regionally in NJ, PA and DE
* Phone: 856-979-2781 * www.facebook.com/kimalicea1
Dlux - NJ, NY, PA Dlux is a professional hair and makeup company located in New York and New Jersey and serving New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. We provide services for all occasions and cater to, both, private and production events, specializing in editorials and couture with.
* Phone: 609-387-4367 * www.dluxmakeup.com
Interested in being listed in our vendor listing? E-mail us at advertise@itsaboutdetails.com
Carrie Lorraine Photography - PA Capture moments that last a lifetime, customize your wedding photography package with Carrie Lorraine! Offering photo booths, stylized and journalistic photography, videography, multiple photographer coverage, and engagement sittings for your traditional or non-traditional wedding.
* Phone: 717-368-9672 *
www.carrielorrainephotography.wordpress.com
Priscilla Costa Brazil - PA Great quality is put into each piece, only the richest natural fabrics are used, and personal attention is paid to the smallest details. Her pieces range from made-to-order wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses and evening wear to accessories such as veils and necklaces, all fine garments with exquisite finishes.
* Phone: 215-938-1009 * www.priscillacosta.com
The Master’s Baker - PA We are a family bakery that has been creating custom wedding and party cakes for every occasion over 40 years now. We stand out by baking from our scratch recipe, using a real butter cream icing while throwing in some ideas of our detailed fondant work. We LOVE what we do!
Be sure to check out these vendors! They are just one click away!
* Phone: 610-436-9888 * www.themastersbaker.com
Calligraphy & Illustration - VT The elegance of your event begins when your invitations arrive at your guests’ homes with hand calligraphed addresses by Ann Kremers. Ann can provide all your social calligraphy needs including seating charts, menus and invitation design as well as illustrated marriage certificates and vows.
* Phone: 802-442-7108 * www.annkremers.com
Memorable Celebrations - Worldwide We are an online wedding accessory resource offering an amazing range of accessories and decorations. Included are many exclusive designs created specifically with today’s Brides in mind. Combined with perennial favorites, our collection is unmatched in selection, quality and value. www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com
Visit us at www.itsaboutdetails.com You’ll find more inspiration, planning tools, checklists, and so much more!
It’s your day, plan it your way.
7 things to love - gift edition
CHICBUDS fauvette gold edition speaker $34.99 at www.tillys.com
ciate caviar manicure $25 at www.sephora.com
ticket stub diary $11 at www.uncommongoods.com
recycled record bookends - set of 2 $40 at www.uncommongoods.com
mr. & mrs. pillowcase set $24.99 at www.personalcreations.com
beer of the month from $101.85 to $383.40 at www.amazingbeerclub.com
kate spade new york neoprene iPad sleeve $50 at www.nordstrom.com
For more inspiration and planning help visit our website.
www.itsaboutdetails.com