Bridal Planner 2014 by The Virginia Gazette

From

thisforward. day. Bridal Planner 2014

A product of The Virginia Gazette

Anna Linkenauger marries Tyler King

Date September 28, 2013 Hair Styling Colonial Barber & Beauty Inc. Venue Two Rivers Country Club Bridal Planner Shayna Walker Invitations Parlett’s Paper Expressions Photographer Brad Howe Photography Rehearsal Dinner William & Mary Alumni House Flowers The Flower Cupboard

Brad Howe Photography

Articles What Do I Do Now?.............................4 The Perfect Place..................................16 Aisle Style...........................................26 Bridal Blooms.....................................30 Pick Your Paradise..............................36 Wedding Proсles Anna Linkenauger marries Tyler King...1,3 Amy Elizabeth Blouet marries Gardiner Tyler Brooks, IV......................................13 Meghan Leckie marries Nicholas DeFoe...14 Kelly Marie Shafer marries Lucas Robert Dontje.......................................................20 Angela Geralis marries Dr. Ernest Zichal...28 Addison Howell marries Cory Veit..........29 Katherine Spencer marries Andrew Dean...32 Destiny Morrow marries Ben Rothwell...32 A Bridal Pictorial...............................34,35 Cover photography by Brad Howe Photography LouAnne M. Sexton, Art Director/Layout Design The Bridal Planner has been fully coordinated by Vickie Nurnberger

From this day forward...2014

Shower Invitation provided by Parlett’s Paper Expressions

Advertisers Accommodations Cary Hill................................................22 Great Wolf Lodge....................................39 The Vintager Inn...................................19 Apparel & Accessories Blush Bridal............................................26 The Inspired Bride...................................2 Williamsburg Bridal and Formal............27 Williamsburg Linen & Lace Company...12 Bridal Planners Inspired Events by Kelly........................25 Shanya Walker........................................12 Cakes CakeAlicious..........................................10 Wedding Cakes by Charlie.......................8 Catering The Catering Company.........................17 William & Mary Catering...................... 22 Flowers Events in Bloom.....................................30 The Flower Cupboard............................12 Morrison’s Flowers & Gifts.....................31 Invitations, etc. Parlett’s Paper Expressions......................6 P.S. Paperie..............................................11

Jewelry & Gifts Boyer’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry..........9 Master Craftsmen....................................6 Origami Owl............................................11 The Precious Gem...................................4 Music Marian Harding, Harpist.........................9 Pampering Colonial Barber & Beauty........................5 European Beauty Concepts.....................8 Norge Dental Center................................7 Photography Brad Howe Photography..........................5 Travel AAA Travel.............................................38 The Travel Corner..................................37 Venue Cary Hill................................................22 Colonial Heritage Clubhouse.................38 Great Wolf Lodge....................................39 Jamestown Settlement..........................17 Legacy Hall............................................18 Mariner’s Museum.................................33 Opus 9 Steakhouse.................................19 The Settlement at Powhatan Creek.......40 Two Rivers Country Club.......................16 The Vintager Inn...................................19 The William & Mary Alumni House.....33 Williamsburg Hellenic Center...............24 Yorktown Victory Center.......................17 The Yorktown Schooners.......................18 3

What Do I Do Now? You are getting married! The next few months will be ﬁlled with dreams of the life you will share with the person you love. Yes, brides, you can enjoy your engagement party, bridal showers, gown shopping, gift registration, and all of the many exciting wedding events and still look radiant and lovely when the big day arrives. It is all in the planning. Perhaps you will be the designer and scheduler of your wedding. Or maybe you prefer the help of a professional wedding planner. Whatever you decide, this bridal guide provides you with all of the resources you need to fulﬁll your wedding plans.

Bridal Consultants Using the professional services of a wedding planner can be extremely helpful. Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially if a wedding is out of town. In addition to relieving stress for the bride, bridal planners can save you money. They work with your personal tastes and budget. Their extensive knowledge and relationships within the wedding industry enable them to provide you with many costeffective options you may never have thought of and save you from costly mistakes. “Anyone can plan a wedding,” says professional wedding planner, Shayna Walker Weddle, of The Flower Cupboard, “but not everyone can successfully execute the plans to ensure that a couple’s wedding day is as perfect and magical as pos-

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sible.” Shayna and her team of full-service wedding planners and event specialists at The Flower Cupboard can provide everything from elegant décor for your wedding and ceremony to total event production and wedding-day management services. With such a large variety of venues and spaces available in the Williamsburg area, Shayna has planned the most intimate of events and the most grandiose, right down to the smallest detail. She plans events inside, outside, at wineries, at country clubs, in church halls, and in private homes. “I specialize in logistical planning. Carefully handling each detail of the planning process is key to the success of even the most complicated of events. It is the exclusive details that make a wedding special and unique,” adds Shayna. “Shayna’s undivided attention to the wedding day details allowed me to truly relax and enjoy my daughter’s wedding day,” says Debbie Linkenauger, mother of Anna (Linkenauger) Tyler. “She is also very good at picking up on any ideas you might have,” continues Linkenauger. “My daughter wanted to include wedding photographs of the bride and groom’s parents and grandparents at the reception. We explained what we wanted to do and how we wanted to do it. She took the supplies we gave her, and she created exactly what we had envisioned. Not everyone can do that. She also knew exactly where to place them at the reception.” Kelly Coronel of Inspired Events by Kelly knows that every bride wants to cherish her wedding day and all of the events surrounding it. “I believe a wedding should showcase the bride and groom’s personalities and interests,” says Coronel. A full service event planner with over 19 years of wedding design and event management experience, Coronel knows how to help brides’ wedding day dreams come true. She and her staff help brides with any or all aspects involved in the planning, scheduling, and coordination of a wedding. Coronel enjoys getting to know each bride personally, enabling her to execute the kind of wedding the bride is expecting. “The vision for all wedding decor comes from our brides and the imaginations of our team of creative professionals,” says Coronel. “I recently did a wedding for a bride whose venue had a moldy ceiling, a disco ball, unattractive walls, and black stripes on the floor. We transformed it into this spectacular room perfectly adorned to showcase the bride’s style. We draped the ceiling with white fabric and created a beaded chandelier with lighting. The floor was covered with a large white dance floor. The tables were dressed with gold lame linen, glass chargers with gold beads, and gold cane back chairs. Everything was accented with the bride’s chosen colors of teal and purple. The dance floor was lighted with the couple’s monogram surrounded by colored LED lighting that moved throughout the night. No one could have guessed what lay behind this magical setting,” adds Coronel. Coronel establishes relationships with all chosen vendors so that her specific directions are followed at just the right time on the day of the wedding. “My average stay with each bride on her wedding day is 17 hours,” says Coronel. “She should not have to worry about anything. Her job is to enjoy her special day.” (www.inspiredeventsbykelly.com 757.291.5369)

From this day forward...2014

Do It Yourself Though planning a wedding can seem like a daunting task, there are fabulous resources available to guide you through the process. It involves a lot of organization, creativity, and budgeting so make certain you set yourself up with planning tools best suited for you. Many brides today are staying more organized by creating their own wedding website. These allow for valuable communication between the couple and their guests. Invitations, RSVPs, registry information, photos, and so much more can be included. (Check out theknot.com, weddingwire.com, and mywedding.com for some excellent planning tools and wedding website details.)

Important Steps in Wedding Planning 1. Theme and Color Dreaming of a beach wedding? Or is a casual barn affair more your style? How about a beautiful church with a long aisle? Whatever your style, determine a theme for your special day. Then choose at least one color to accompany your theme. This will help you with every aspect of your wedding from invitations and ﬂowers to bridesmaid dresses, favors, decorations, and the cake. If you haven’t yet chosen a color palette for your 2014 wedding, let Pantone’s list of hot colors for 2014 inspire you. Various shades and hues of these 10 colors are certain to provide a beautiful backdrop for your big event: Placid Blue, Violet Tulip, Hemlock, Sand, Paloma, Cayenne, Freesia, Celosia Orange, Radiant Orchid, Dazzling Blue. So whether you are into soothing pastels, bold colors, or neutrals, this year’s colors has something to offer every bride.

2. Budget There are many costs involved in planning a wedding – from the ceremony and reception to the flowers, wedding attire, invitations, photographer, music, favors, and more. Sit down with your fiance and be realistic about what you really want and can afford. 3. Guest List, Ceremony and Reception Venues Your budget will determine the number of guests you will invite and the venue choices for your ceremony and reception. Often there is a fee involved in the ceremony location and/ or with the officiating celebrant. There are basically two types of reception sites. One involves a per person price and can include many services to make planning less time-consuming and demanding. The other requires a rental fee for the space but affords you greater creativity (and more work) for setup, decorating, caterers, and other vendors. (For more information on venues, refer to The Perfect Place article on page 16.) 4. Wedding Date and Announcement Once you have decided where you want your ceremony and reception, it is time to set the date, based on the availability of the facilities you have chosen. You may also want to check with important family members to avoid any conflicts. After these aspects have been addressed, your engagement can be announced in the newspaper and/or by means of save-the-date cards. 5. Wedding Invitations, Stationery, Accessories Invitations have gone couture! Brides are selecting such options as textured paper, unique shapes, and silk accent ribbons for their invitations. Monogrammed thank you notes, place cards, menus, napkins, and save-the-dates are also trending right now. Brides can find all of these things at Parlett’s Paper Ex-

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pressions in New Town. Their extensive selection of invitations, stationery, paper goods, wedding party gifts, and accessories enables brides to take care of many wedding responsibilities in one place. They also provide optional addressing of invitations. Parlett’s is a favorite of brides wanting elegant and more traditional invitations. However, they also have a huge selection of invitations for the trendy bride. “Invitations are much more colorful, featuring beautiful ribbon in the wedding colors,” says Jackie Sutherland who owns Parlett’s. “For brides choosing informal venues like barns and beaches, we offer such invitations as those surrounded by burlap and lace that come with burlap bag envelopes and table favors. For a beach venue, the invitations usually involve shells, starﬁsh, or other beach items. Even type styles can be mixed and lines curved,” continues Sutherland. To complement the wedding invitations, Parlett’s coordinates response cards, save-the-dates, place cards, menus, programs, and napkins. Unique die-cut invitations for wedding events such as showers, rehearsal dinners, and bachelorette parties are created in-shop. Ring bearer pillows, garters, ﬂower girl baskets, and unity candles are also available. (www.parlettspaperexpressions.com 757.561.0231) “Every fabulous wedding starts with an extraordinary invitation,” says Debbie Fisher of P.S. Paperie in Port Warwick. P.S. Paperie is another wonderful option for brides needing wedding invitations, thank you notes, place cards, seating charts, menus, and any other type of paper good. “Our two amazing graphic artists can create anything the bride has in her mind,” says Fisher. “They recently designed a wine bottle invitation for a couple getting married in a vineyard. The label on the bottle was the invitation, and the response card was placed around the top. Everyone loved it.”

P.S. Paperie carries the elegant stationery of William Arthur and Crane and Co., but Fisher says younger brides are choosing a lot of color and shine. “They want their invitation to sing and dance a little bit,” she says. “They like anything that sparkles or shines, especially rhinestones. These can be added to any type of wedding item the bride orders.” Fisher also encourages brides who ordered invitations online and were disappointed to come in to the store. “Our brides are involved in every step of the process. They can make changes as they go along to ensure they get what they want. We want our brides to be happy.” In addition to the vast assortment of paper goods, the store also carries many wonderful bridal party gifts, such as John Wind jewelry, Lilly Pulitzer accessories, monogrammed items, and mariposa keepsakes. Other items like beautiful garters, socks for the groom and fathers, and handkerchiefs are also available. (www.thepspaperie.com 757.595.5111) 6. Photographer Hiring a photographer is an important task. First, decide on the style you want. Do you prefer more traditional photos or something a little more edgy and bold? Make appointments to meet photographers. Ask to see samples of wedding albums. Determine if you and your future spouse are compatible with the photographer. Compare pricing. Engagement photos are a great way to help you make your ﬁnal decision. Brad Howe Photography One look at his work, and brides are ready to choose their photographer. Brad Howe, award-winning photographer, blends contemporary, traditional, and photojournalistic styles for a totally fresh and exciting style of wedding photography. “I love to capture emotion. That’s why I’m everywhere yet nowhere,” says Howe. “I’m not all about turning a wedding into a photo

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From this day forward...2014

and trend-setting collections of groom/groomsmen attire and dresses for mothers, bridesmaids, and ﬂower girls. Blush Bridal Consignment Boutique offers brides the opportunity to ﬁnd an exquisite gown for a fraction of the original cost. For more information on wedding apparel, see the Aisle Style article on page 26. (www.theinspiredbride.com 757.345.0008 www.williamsburgbridalandformal.com 757.229.5004 www.blushgowns.com 757.595.7797) 8. Registry Brides need to begin registering about seven to nine months before their wedding. This gives shower guests and wedding guests access to your registry. Brad Howe Photography

shoot. A wedding is like a sporting event. It’s non-stop action all the time. There is never time to set my camera down. I have to be constantly thinking on my feet.” Though still traditional at heart, Brad’s work could be described as carefree, sexy, modern, somewhat natural, and very vibrant. “Wedding photography is everything,” continues Howe. “It is portraiture, ﬂowers, architecture, food, fashion, landscape. I love to capture the emotion of the day.” (www.bradhowephotography.com 757.373.1373) 7. Gowns and Wedding Party Attire The spring 2014 bridal runway features fresh new designs with lots of sleek silhouettes, illusion and halter necklines, breathtaking fabrics, and amazing accessories. For serious trendsetters, designers offer pink gowns, black gowns, capes, pants worn under dresses, and even tails. The Inspired Bride and Williamsburg Bridal and Formal showcase fabulous selections of gowns for brides across the Hampton Roads and Richmond areas. These distinguished establishments also offer traditional

9. Wedding Jewelry Hosted by Jewelers of America, the annual Fine Jewelry Preview showcases the latest ﬁne jewelry representing the upcoming year’s jewelry trends. Hot for 2014 will be dramatic statement earrings, transformable jewelry, opals, unique engagement rings, and gemstone-heavy cocktail rings. It is the jewelry that will complete the presence of the gown. When it comes to unique engagement rings, Boyer’s Diamonds and Fine Jewelry is the perfect resource. For over 25 years, Boyer’s has been offering their clients beautiful jewelry of the highest quality for the best price. “We work with any price point,” says Christine Evans, Marketing Manager. “We have loose stones in all shapes and sizes and a large variety of settings. If you don’t see what you want, we can custom-design and create the perfect piece in our shop.” Owner David Cohen travels regularly to Israel to select only the best diamonds. Boyer’s also showcases beautiful necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and watches, perfect for the bride and groom to present to each other. Their selection of bridesmaid and groomsmen

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From this day forward...2014

gifts like silver jewelry, charms, champagne flutes, key chains, and money clips makes Boyer’s even more attractive to engaged couples. (www.boyersjewelry.com 757.565.0747) For over 30 years, the Master Craftsmen Shop near Merchants Square has been offering its beautiful line of fine jewelry handcrafted in the shop, pewter items, and gifts. Grooms can choose from a stunning assortment of bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and brooches to present to their bride. Brides can do the same for their groom with a great selection of cuff links, key rings, flasks, and tankards. Most of these items can be engraved and make fabulous wedding party gifts as well. Owner Holly Shields says their bracelets, necklaces, and earrings are especially popular as bridesmaid gifts. “Brides can choose a bracelet or other piece and have each bridesmaid’s name engraved on the topside,” says Shields. “On the back or underside, the bride has her wedding date engraved. Since our bracelets come in child sizes, even flower girls will feel included.” Their personalized pewter trays, cake servers, and cake knives also make wonderful wedding gifts. (www.mastercraftsmenshop.net 757.253.2993) When speaking of The Precious Gem, clients synonymously associate excellent customer service, superior gemstone quality and craftsmanship, and Reggie Akdogan with the name. Akdogan, designer, master jeweler, and goldsmith, has been creating stunning jewelry for over 30 years. His knowledge, expertise, and eye for beauty enable him to create exquisite pieces to suit every taste and price point. In addition to gorgeous wedding and engagement rings, Akdogan has fashioned a vast collection of distinctive jewelry and precious stones. He judiciously selects stones during his travels in the U.S. and abroad. “Reggie believes that any jewelry purchase should be pleasurable and memorable,” says Lisa Akdogan, his wife. “We also take care of

our clients’ purchases for as long as they own them. This is one reason Reggie has lifetime customers from all over the country and abroad.” Brides are thrilled to become lifelong clients. (www.thepreciousgems.com 757.220.1115) For brides not able to afford beautiful fine jewelry to complete The Precious Gem their look, renting is a trendy new option. Companies like Adorn provide brides with a selection of genuine, high quality diamond jewelry they can easily and affordably rent for the day/night. (For more information, visit www.adorn.com.) 10. Flowers and Decorations While the pastels and neutrals are continuously popular flower trends, 2014 is seeing a resurgence of bright colors. Vivid color palettes paired with lighter tones found in nature suggest organic beauty, sunshine, and calm nights. Flower and decoration choices are essential in creating the perfect ambiance for your special event. The Flower Cupboard provides full-service wedding design and event planning. Their designers help brides take care of everything from ceremony and reception décor to total event production and wedding day management services. (www.flowercupboard.com 757.220.0057) Morrison’s Flowers and Gifts beautifully handles all floral needs for the bride and groom. From the rehearsal dinner to the ceremony, reception, and bridal party, Morrison’s is committed to providing only the finest in floral design and delivery. (www. morrisonsflowersandgifts.com 757.220.1242)

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From this day forward...2014

Owner of Events in Bloom, Jennifer Litterst has spent over 20 years in the floral industry. Her passion for wedding and event floral design has made her a coveted choice of brides all over the Hampton Roads area. In addition to creating stunning ceremony, reception, and table arrangements, bouquets, and boutonnieres, Litterst’s staff will deliver, setup, and retrieve wedding and ceremony décor. (www.eventsinbloom.biz 757.810.6099) 11. Music Music sets the tone for the wedding ceremony and the reception. It reflects the bride and groom’s personality and their personal music tastes. When choosing music, a bride and groom must consider location, wedding demographics, musician, musical selections, and transition and timing. While romantic outdoor venues are fantastic, consider having a backup plan if the weather doesn’t cooperate. One type of music outside isn’t always the same inside. In all situations, the kind of music you choose should depend, in part, on the guests that will be coming. If there will be a young, excited crowd, a string quartet may not be appreciated. Or if the reception is more intimate, a loud D.J. or band may not be the right choice. Couples wanting to hire a professional musician often choose a harpist, pianist, violinist, or guitarist. In Williamsburg, harpist Marian Harding delights guests with her beautiful music. She is one of the founders of the Williamsburg Symphonia and is a highly regarded musician in the Hampton Roads area. (757.229.4439) Many couples decide upon a variety of music throughout their wedding and reception. The ceremony may consist of a violinist followed by a DJ or band at the reception. Whatever the choice, be sure to consider song choices for such memorable events as the walk down the aisle, the ceremony entrance, the bride and groom’s first dance, and the father-daughter dance. 12. Wedding Cakes/Desserts Choosing a wedding cake is one of the most enjoyable decisions a bride will make. The abundance of flavors, shapes, and styles is astounding. Generally, couples want to design their cake to be reflective of their personalities and their chosen theme. In addition, grooms cakes, cupcakes, and other types of desserts often play a delicious role in weddings. “I create my cakes to be unforgettable in taste as well as design,” says Charlie Little of Cakes by Charlie. For over 30 years, Charlie’s cakes have made special memories for brides and grooms. It should come as no surprise that he was listed as one of 2013’s Top 100 Wedding Cake Designers in the U.S. in Brides, the world’s largest bridal magazine. Charlie’s delectable cake flavors include such traditional favorites as red velvet and Cakes by Charlie other gourmet combinations like amaretto and raspberry, chocolate and espresso, carrot and caramel, spice and brown butter. He also uses nothing but buttercream for his cakes. Though many of his cakes are more elegant and traditional in design, Charlie says he’s created more whimsical cake toppers this year than he ever has in his career. “Toppers add a lot of personality. They are no longer the traditional bride and groom,” he says. Charlie also creates grooms cakes, and specifically recalls a Washington Redskins-themed cake he created for the groom and high heel cupcakes for the bride.

From this day forward...2014

With many receptions featuring dessert tables, Charlie creates “sweet bites”. These two-bite desserts, such as pumpkin squares with butterscotch ganache and white chocolate, and chocolate marnier pecan squares can stand alone or accompany a cake. For a beautiful, delicious, artistic cake or dessert, call Charlie. (www.cakesbycharlie.com 804.785.2217) Another exquisite wedding cake designer is Alice Cooke of CakeAlicious. Just one bite of her sumptuous white cake with white chocolate truffle filling and you will understand why CakeAlicious has received the Bride’s Choice Award by WeddingWire for the last five years and was voted best of Best Bakery and Dessert in Hampton Roads in 2013. CakeAlicious has been a favorite of brides for over 20 years. “Not only should the wedding cake reflect the couple’s personal style,” says Cooke, “but it should also taste better than it looks.” This is a remarkable statement as Cooke’s creations are something to behold. From cakes in the shape of fire trucks, game stations, and tools and toolboxes, there seems to be no cake design too difficult for Cooke to handle. “We are doing just as many modern wedding cakes as we are the more traditional designs. Brides are including more of their own personal touches,” adds Cooke, “such as details from their gowns and invitations.” Cooke’s success in designing creative wedding cakes, grooms cakes, and cupcakes is due in large part to her ability to take a couple’s vision and bring it to life, while still staying within their budget. “We love the challenge of creating something new,” says Cooke. “And as far as taste is concerned, we use only the finest, freshest ingredients available. We have a large variety of fabulous cake, filling, and buttercream flavors brides can choose from to create the cake of their dreams.”

Cooke invites everyone to visit her new store in Williamsburg to try her fabulous cupcakes or other sweet treats and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. (4268 Casey Blvd., Williamsburg www. creationsfromtheheart.org 757.234.4300) 13. Wedding Party Gifts Finding the right gifts for your friends and family who all helped make your special day fabulous is easy if you know where to look. Parlett’s Paper Expressions is the perfect place to find personalized gifts like notepads, stationery, pens, coffee mugs, travel mugs, tumblers, flasks, bottle openers, and key chains. For a gift of fine jewelry for the ladies or personalized tankards or cuff links for the men, Master Craftsmen Shop offers a huge selection of beautiful, timeless gifts. Couples looking to give the wedding party such gifts as silver or pearl jewelry, Pandora bracelets and charms, champagne flutes, money clips, and key rings should visit Boyer’s Diamonds and Fine Jewelry. Brides can find a wonderful selection of John Wind jewelry, items for personalization, Mariposa keepsakes and more at P.S. Paperie. A new trend growing in popularity for wedding party gifts are lockets. Pam Wright of Origami Owl offers beautiful lockets that can be filled with charms. “A bride can choose a style of chain, locket, and coordinating charms,” says Wright. “Brides often choose a gemstone charm representing the wedding theme. The bridal party can then choose other charms. The lockets are perfect for rehearsal dinners, as part of the wedding attire, or attached to bouquets.” Wright tells of one bride’s aunt who gave her a locket to celebrate her engagement. “The bride filled it with birthstone charms – one for her birthday, one for his, and one to represent their wedding day,” says Wright. “She wore it

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From this day forward...2014

in her engagement photos,” she adds. In addition to bridal parties, Wright’s lockets are perfect for all seasons and all sorts of occasions - birthdays, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day. (To view her line of products, you can ﬁnd Origami Owl – Pam Wright on Facebook. 757.344.6653) The Wedding Handkerchief Williamsburg Linen & Lace specializes in creating monograms and family ciphers for the bride, groom, family, and wedding party. Vintage monograms, initials, and embellishments are incorporated into a personalized monogram. Exquisitely embellished linen and lace European handkerchiefs are presented for the bride’s selection with complimentary men’s handmade Irish and Belgian linen handkerchiefs available. All monograms are designed and embroidered by hand by Williamsburg trained hand embroiderers. By Appointment. (757.259.9400 or williamsburglinens@gmail.com www.classicmonograms.com) 14. Wedding Favors Though not necessary, wedding favors are a great way to show everyone how grateful you are that they shared your wedding day with you. There are favors to ﬁt every theme, style, and budget. Couples can choose everything from personalized wine glasses and mint tins to coasters, bottle openers, luggage tags, bottle stoppers, bookmarks, soaps, and koozies. Be sure to have the favors ready far in advance of the wedding just in case more time is needed, perhaps for engraving, assembling, and back orders. 15. Transportation Wedding transportation often brings to mind the beautiful, sleek, white limousine for the bride and groom. However, many of today’s brides are thinking way out of the box. Depending on the location of the ceremony and reception, the newly married

couple may choose to arrive by boat, golf cart, horse and carriage, vintage car, helicopter, sports car, a bicycle built for two, a pedi-cab, or with the wedding party in a decorated trolley, party bus, or SUV limo. If you are responsible for transporting your guests, you may choose shuttles, vintage trolleys, or a charter bus. Regardless of the choice, brides need to make these arrangements about six months ahead of time. 16. Marriage License and Other Legalities Getting married is a legal act and requires a license to ensure that the union is legal. License requirements vary from country to country, state to state, and sometimes by counties within each state. To verify the requirements necessary for your ceremony, call the marriage license bureau in the county in which your ceremony will take place. In Williamsburg, a marriage license is issued by the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the Courthouse, First Floor, 5201 Monticello Avenue, Suite 6. There is a fee of $30.00 cash, and both parties must appear before the Clerk. For more information, call 757.564.2242. If a destination wedding is planned and you are using a travel agent, they will take care of all of this. Sometimes the resort will handle it. If not, the prospective bride and groom will have to go to the local town hall to verify the requirements. 17. Where Can I Rent…? There are many venues that require couples to rent everything from a tent, an arch, chairs, and tables to dance floors, candleholders, and vases. For help with some of these items and others, call Morrison’s Flowers and Gifts (silver candelabras and flutes, flower containers, etc.) and The Flower Cupboard (arches, pedestals, canopies, props, linens, and more). They are always happy to help brides create a beautiful backdrop for their magical day.

for you and your bridesmaids Choose your locket, charms and accessories, and build a Living Locket™ that tells your personal story. ®

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From this day forward...2014

757-344-6653 11

18. Pampering the Bride, Groom, and Bridal Party Facials, massages, makeup, hair, and nails are all part of prewedding pampering for the bride and her bridal party. Many grooms are pampering themselves these days as well. Professional shaves, massages, manis, and pedis are becoming more routine for today’s groom. Is your smile ready for your big day? Will the photos be perfect? Would you like to transform your smile and see yourself beaming ear to ear? The doctors at Norge Dental Center in Williamsburg can take care of all your cosmetic dental needs. As General Dentists, they are proficient in teeth whitening, veneers and lumineers, Six Month Smiles (adult cosmetic braces), and a multitude of other procedures designed to help you smile your very best. Norge Dental Center’s personalized customer service reassures the bride and groom that they will love the end result. “Our clients are always amazed at how quickly we can get their smiles to perfection,” says Dr. Timothy Johnston. “A beautiful smile is a big confidence-booster.” (www.norgedental.com 757-941-5283) For that perfect wedding day hair, brides and the bridal parties book with the stylists at Colonial Barber and Beauty in Williamsburg. Lisa Black, owner, has been helping brides look beautiful and grooms look handsome for many years. This full service barber and beauty salon can take care of the entire bridal party and anyone else wanting to look their best for the big day. Black and her three stylists and four barbers offer clients a variety of salon services, including bridal makeup, shaves, facial waxing, and manicures. “We work with each bride before the wedding to help her find the perfect hairstyle to accommodate her gown and headpiece,” says Black. “Then on the day of the wedding, we go to the bride or the bride and her bridal party come here. Lately, my brides

have been wearing their hair down with just a few simple curls or waves. Headpieces range from the traditional veil to all sorts of different beaded bands, jeweled clips, and sprays,” Black says. “Regardless of what style is chosen, we work until everyone feels beautiful.” (757.220.8039) A full service salon, European Beauty Concepts, is a perfect retreat for the bride and her bridal party on the day of the wedding. “We have so much fun when they all come in,” says, Evelyn Summers, part owner and manager, “but we can just as easily pack up and do everyone’s hair and makeup at the ceremony location.” She and owner, Annette Ritzmann, have been doing brides’ hair and makeup for years. “We want this to be a great experience for each bride and her attendants. They often have food catered in, and we provide complimentary cappuccinos, trufﬂes, mimosas, wine, coffee. Once hair and makeup are done, a photographer is usually ready to take pictures of the bride and bridal party. We make sure they all look and feel fabulous,” says Summers. The professional stylists at European Beauty Concepts are constantly attending workshops, classes, and shows to keep up with all of the latest trends. “Our stylists are very good with formal hairstyles,” continues Summers. “Right now, the trend for brides is very soft and kind of off to one side. We work with brides well in advance of their wedding day in order to create the perfect recipe for perfect wedding day hair.” Brides and grooms can also take advantage of spa packages for pampering, or they can choose treatments on the a la carte menu before the wedding. The spa offers an extensive list of skin care treatments and massages. (www.europeanbeautyconcepts.com 757.229.2440) –Kathy Zaun

all because two people fell in love… The Wedding Handkerchief

Photo by Victoria, 2013

Elegantly Hand Embroidered Fine Linen Handkerchiefs Authentic Vintage Initials & Monograms Hand Drawn & Created for the Bride & Groom By Appointment 757.259.9400 Williamsburg Linen & Lace Company 5121 Center Street, Suite 100, in New Town - Williamsburg williamsburglinens@gmail.com

Williamsburg’s Premier Source of Wedding Floral Design and Full Service Wedding Planning. Our staff of designers and planners represent the most experienced wedding and events team in the greater Williamsburg region.

The Flower Cupboard 205 North Boundary • 757-220-0057 email cathy@ﬂowercupboard.com • www.ﬂowercupboard.com Photos by Brad Howe Photography

From this day forward...2014

Amy y Elizabeth Blouet marries

Gardiner Tyler Brooks IV Date June 29 29, 2013

Bridal Gown and Tuxes Williamsburg Bridal & Formal W W Wedding Invitations and Stationery a Parlettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paper Expressions Rehearsal Dinner Veneue Legacy Hall in New Town

Photos courtesy of Bill Geiger

From this day forward...2014

Fun Fact: Amy and Gardiner have known each A other since they were twelve. Although o tthey went to different middle school and high schools in Williamsburg, a tthey were always good friends but lost touch with each other in college. During the summer of 2009, Amy and Gardiner reconnected and have been G ttogether ever since.

Meghan Leckie

marries

Nicholas DeFoe Date July 20, 2013

Brides Parents Mark and Rosemary Leckie of Williamsburg Bridesmaids Picnic/Barbeque Two Rivers Country Club The Ceremony The Gazebo at Two Rivers Country Club The Reception Two Rivers Country Club The Flowers Events in Bloom, Jennifer Litterst The Photographer Brad Howe The Cake Cakes by Charlie The Invitations Parlettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paper Expressions Mother of the Bride Dress The Inspired Bride The Honeymoon St. Lucia Photos courtesy Brad Howe Photography 14

From this day forward...2014

Fun Facts Despite growing up in neighboring Connecticut towns, Meg and Nick did not meet until their ﬁrst day of college in Pennsylvania. They have been together ever since. After a wonderfully romantic proposal and dinner, Meg and Nick boarded an Amtrak train for an all-night journey to Williamsburg. They surprised Meg’s parents and shared the exciting news. Though Meg and Nick live near the Connecticut shore, they chose Williamsburg as the site for their wedding for several reasons. Meg’s parents had honeymooned in Williamsburg in 1975, and she and her family had always enjoyed vacationing there. Her parents moved to Williamsburg in 2011. Nick and Meg loved the breath-taking views at Two Rivers Country Club. As 90% of their guests were from out-of-town, Nick and Meg knew that the Williamsburg area offers a wonderful variety of activities for all to enjoy. Just like her mother and her twin sister, Meg wore her great-grandmother’s wedding band on her wedding day. All three also kept a sixpence in one of their bridal shoes that was brought back by Meg’s mom from a trip to England in 1972. Meg’s lifelong dream was to be a bride. During her toast, Meg’s twin sister, Kendra, presented the crowd with Meg’s paintings of herself as a bride that she had painted when they were little. After the honeymoon, Meg looked at her mother one day and said, “Mom, if there is one day I could relive all over again, from morning ‘til night, it would be my wedding day.” Those words will be cherished forever.

From this day forward...2014

The Perfect Place “Virginia is for Lovers.” This age-old slogan certainly applies to brides and grooms in our state. So what is the best location for couples to proclaim their love for one another? The answer depends on such variables as religious afﬁliation, the wedding theme, and the number of guests. When couples explore the extensive list of venues available in our area, they soon realize the unique and wonderful opportunities they have to plan a wedding that is anything but ordinary. Perhaps you always pictured yourself walking down a long church aisle to say your vows and then dancing in a beautiful ballroom or in a banquet hall-turned-ballroom for the evening. Or maybe you would love to recite your vows and have your celebration at a country club overlooking the water or at a vineyard. Our area offers not only these types of locations but many others. Have you ever thought about getting married at a resort, at a restored estate dating back to 1741, in a museum, or on a boat? Or how about celebrating your wedding day in a barn or on a national historic site? To start planning your special day, consider such intriguing venues as The Vintager Inn, The William & Mary Alumni House, The Mariners’ Museum, Cary Hill, The Settlement, Yorktown Victory Center and Jamestown Settlement, Great Wolf Lodge, Two Rivers Country Club, St. Demetrios Hellenic Center, The Schooner Alliance, Colonial Heritage Clubhouse, Legacy Hall, and Opus 9. For locations requiring food service, The Catering Company and William & Mary

Catering can handle any or all of your catering needs. For a list of churches, temples, other venues, and wedding vendors, visit www.williamsburgweddings.com and www.weddingmapper.com. The Vintager Inn “We opened as a bed and breakfast in 2012, not planning on having weddings,” says owner, Ken Fisher. “But brides kept calling,” he laughs. The Vintager Inn is nestled on 65 rolling acres in New Kent and features an elegant circa 1855 inn, The Grande Barrel Hall, and The Carriage House where couples can recite their vows or celebrate their wedding. Outdoor options include the front porch of the Inn, under the trellis, in a grove beneath stately shade trees, or even in one of the ﬁelds. The property consists of a lovely combination of rustic, vintage, rolling hills, history, and elegance, making it the perfect setting for the more traditional bride and for the bride wanting more of the chic country/vintage theme. The Grande Barrel Hall highlights lofty ceilings and sweeping views of rolling meadows. Its unique The Vintager Inn

A Simply Magical Setting

You’ve waited all of your life for this moment. We’ll make sure it’s all you’ve dreamed and more. Celebrate in style with a spectacular sunset across the scenic James River. “Wow” your guests with gourmet food and unmatched service. Experience the magic of Two Rivers Country Club. Contact Haley Hogan at (757) 258-4610 ext. 224 www.GovernorsLand.com Photo: Images by Brad Howe

From this day forward...2014

and creative design allows brides to successfully execute any wedding theme or style and can accommodate up to 200 or 300 guests. Fisher sees brides in elegant, classic-style gowns accompanied by grooms in sophisticated tuxedos, brides in more casual gowns wearing cowboy boots, and everything in between. The beautiful backdrop of the Vintager Inn is every photographer’s dream. Katherine Horsley, wedding coordinator at The Vintager Inn, works with every couple to create a wedding package to suit their budget. Fisher wants his place to be affordable for everyone. They also have available a list of preferred vendors who can help the bride personalize her special day. (www.thevintagerinn.com 804.938.5528) The William & Mary Alumni House Contrary to its name, The William & Mary Alumni House is not just for alumni and their families. Everyone is welcome to use this distinctive facility located in the heart of historic Williamsburg on the campus of William & Mary. With certain areas dating back to 1871, the house portrays fascinating architectural features and contains a variety of rooms and outdoor areas. A combination of these areas can be combined to create a very unique and stunning backdrop for a wedding and can The William & Mary Alumni House

accommodate up to 300 guests. The elegant Leadership Hall can accommodate 120 guests for a seated dinner or 180 guests if a standup reception is in order. The Grand Foyer and the Gallery are perfect for a party of about 60 guests, while still other rooms are available for smaller, more intimate receptions. Outdoors, take advantage of the Memorial Plaza, facing Zable Stadium. Or choose the Family Courtyard or one of the beautiful shaded areas. Once you have booked your wedding, the planning process becomes much easier. The House has an extensive list of preferred vendors to suit every couple’s tastes and budgets. These vendors can help you create the wedding of your dreams. As an extra touch, each couple receives a commemorative brick with their name and wedding date on it, and it is placed in the ground near the House. (www.wmalumnihouse.com 757.221.1176) The Mariners’ Museum and Park America’s National Maritime Museum, the Mariners’ Museum and Park offer brides and grooms gorgeous outdoor venues for their ceremony and reception and stunning, versatile indoor venues. “Our intriguing spaces offer couples many unique and fascinating options for their wedding, regardless of style, theme, or size,” says facility rental coordinator, Krystina Seraﬁni. “Many couples come in with a particular idea in mind. Once they see the stunning Lion’s Bridge, our elegant courtyard, our stunning views of the James River, and our beautiful space overlooking Lake Maury, their ideas begin to expand,” she continues. “Inside, couples can choose from such venues as The Great Hall of Steam, The Grand Entry Hall and Patio, the elegant and distinctive Main Lobby, and other spectacular areas, perfect for

Where the difference between ordinary and extraordinary is a little extra... Our team is creative and passionate about great food! We offer completely customized and personalized menus for any event and will provide a catering experience that is all about you, your vision, your tastes, your guests, and your budget.

Creating Memories for over 20 Years

757-220-8011 www.williamsburgoccasions.com From this day forward...2014

MORE SOPHISTICATED AFFAIRS OR MORE CASUAL OR WHIMSICAL THEMES v 4O SIMPLIFY YOUR PLANNING PROCESS THE MUSEUM HAS A WONDERFUL LIST OF CATERERS TO CHOOSE FROM &OR INSIDE WEDDINGS ITEMS SUCH AS CHAIRS TABLES WET BARS AND PODIUMS ARE AVAILABLE FOR USE AND STAFF WILL SET UP AND BREAK DOWN ALL MUSEUM FURNITURE AT NO COST )F YOU HAVE NOT SEEN THE MUSEUM AND PARK GO FOR A VISIT )T IS A FABULOUS HISTORICAL VENUE FOR A FABULOUS HISTORIC OCCASION WWW MARINERSMUSEUM ORG Cary Hill 4HIS GORGEOUS HISTORICAL PRIVATE ESTATE IS LOCATED ON ACRES IN THE HISTORIC *AMES 2IVER 0LANTATION DISTRICT .EWLY RENOVATED AND RESTORED CIRCA THE HOUSE REm ECTS THE CURRENT AND PREVIOUS OWNERS LOVE OF HIS TORY AND ART )T FEATURES A BALLROOM THAT HAS BEEN USED FOR ENTERTAINING FOR NEARLY CENTURIES AND Cary Hill AN ORIGINAL IRON l REPLACE 4HE WARMING CLOSET FROM WHICH REFRESHMENTS WOULD HAVE BEEN SERVED IN ITS DAY IS ANOTHER FASCINATING AREA FOR ENTERTAINING AS IS THE BEAUTIFUL SWIMMING POOL AND POOL HOUSE 4HESE AREAS ENABLE THE BRIDE AND GROOM TO HOST A FABULOUS OUTDOOR WEDDING CELEBRATION h/UR HOUSE AND GROUNDS MAKE THE PERFECT VENUE FOR THE COUPLE WANTING A SMALLER MORE INTIMATE WEDDING WITH ABOUT GUESTS v SAYS ADMINISTRATOR 2OBIN 3CHREIBER h7E CAN HANDLE A SLIGHTLY LARGER PARTY WITH THE USE OF A TENT v SHE ADDS h7E ARE ALSO THE IDEAL SPOT FOR THE COUPLE WANTING TO ELOPE /UR PRIVATE

Set Sail into your new life together

POOL AND HONEYMOON COTTAGE SET THE STAGE FOR A VERY ROMANTIC AND MEMORABLE WEDDING EXPERIENCE v WWW CARYHILL COM The Settlement at Powhatan Creek 4HE LUXURIOUS AWARD WINNING SQ FT CLUBHOUSE OVERLOOKING WATER THE ELEGANT BALLROOM THE BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR SPACES AND THE AFFORDABILITY OF IT ALL MAKE 4HE 3ETTLEMENT A PERFECT CHOICE FOR BRIDES TO FULl LL THEIR WEDDING DREAMS h7E ALSO HAVE A SPACIOUS CATERING KITCHEN A GAME ROOM WITH A STONE l REPLACE AND m AT SCREEN 46 TWO ACTIVITY ROOMS AND AN OUTDOOR POOL AREA FEATURING A TRELLIS AND A l REPLACE v SAYS .ANCY "EN NETT h7E HAVE SEEN EVERY TYPE OF THEME AND STYLE OF WEDDING HERE THAT YOU CAN IMAGINE 3OME ARE VERY GRAND AND ELABORATE WHILE OTHERS TAKE ON A MORE CASUAL AND COMFORTABLE FEEL v SHE ADDS h3INCE OUR BRIDES CHOOSE THEIR OWN CATERER THEY ARE ABLE TO CUSTOMIZE THEIR MENU TO MEET THEIR NEEDS v SHE ADDS !LSO INCLUDED IN THE RENTAL PRICE IS AN ON SITE HOST ENSURING THAT THE WEDDING EVENTS RUN AS SMOOTHLY AS POSSIBLE 4HE USE OF THE CLUBHOUSE S TABLES FABRIC PADDED CHAIRS HANDSOME WOODEN BAR WIRELESS MICROPHONE AND OTHER ITEMS ARE ALSO NO COST TO THE COUPLE h7E DO EVERYTHING WE CAN TO MAKE A COUPLE S l RST MEMORY TOGETHER AN UNFORGETTABLE ONE v SAYS "ENNETT WWW THESETTLEMENT NET Yorktown Victory Center and Jamestown Settlement 5NIQUE DRAMATIC AND EXTRAORDINARY ARE WEDDINGS AT 9OR KTOWN 6ICTORY #ENTER AND *AMESTOWN 3ETTLEMENT "RIDES AND GROOMS AT 9ORKTOWN 6ICTORY #ENTER CAN RECITE THEIR VOWS AND CELEBRATE AT THE &LAG OR 7INGED 6ICTORY 0LAZA OR UNDER THE OVER HANG AT THE MUSEUM ENTRANCE &OR A ONE OF A KIND EVENT THAT WILL STAY IN THE MIND OF EVERY GUEST FOREVER HOST YOUR WEDDING

Legacy Hall...

aboard the Yorktown Schooners

erenity lliance

...the perfect place for your wedding and wedding parties!

Serenity Private Charters for up to 26 guests Perfect for an intimate wedding event!

Alliance Private Charters for up to 49 guests Sailing from Riverwalk Landing Pier Engagement Parties, Rehearsal Dinners, Family Gatherings Call for Special Event and Charter information 757.639.1233 or visit www.sailyorktown.com

Located in New Town, Legacy Hall is the start to a great future and precious memories of a lifetime. Included in the rental fee are round and banquet tables, chairs, catering kitchen and a bamboo ямВoor prefect for dancing! Personalize your event; no preferred vendor list. Legacy Hall is within walking distance of shops and restaurants plus there are a variety of nearby hotels. Maximum occupancy is 299. Very affordable rates. Non-smoking facility. State ABC license required. Owned and operated by James City County. Legacy Hall, 4301 New Town Ave. in New Town For a full description including fees and hours, visit jamescitycountyva.gov/legacyhall. To schedule a tour, make reservations or for more information, call or email Joan.Etchberger@jamescitycountyva.gov, 757-259-5410.

From this day forward...2014

at the Continental Army Encampment. At Jamestown Settlement, couples can begin their lives together in the beautiful Rotunda, with its Old English-style wood paneling, copper lighting fixtures, and oriental-design carpet. Or choose from the lobby, two halls, terraces, gazebo, and plaza with fountains. These intriguing venues can accommodate upwards of 800 guests, dependent upon your style and theme. Being able to choose your own caterer and rent any items that will help you create your dream wedding makes these venues perfect for the couple wanting a very memorable and enjoyable day. (Visit www.historyisfun.org. Under the middle column entitled ‘Book Your Vacation’, scroll down to the last paragraph and click on the underlined phrase ‘unique venues’. 757.253.4838) Great Wolf Lodge For the bride wanting an attentive wedding planner, an elegant venue, masterful chefs, fabulous accommodations, and plenty of space for fun, all in one great package, Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect answer. The professional staff at Great Wolf Lodge can take care of everything a bride needs - from planning, decorations, and a wonderful variety of cuisine options to entertainment, technical support, and accommodations. “We are kind of like a one-stop shop for brides in the planning process,” says Brittany Alger, catering sales manager. “We can customize our ballrooms for any style or theme the bride has chosen and can accommodate anywhere from 50 to 300 guests,” Alger continues. “Our chefs can prepare a simple meal or a more elegant formal dinner, each beautifully and artfully presented. We also offer elegantly appointed tables with full china service, dance floor, wireless microphone, and cake-cutting services. Our wedding coordinator works with each bride at every stage of the planning process to ensure that her dream wedding is executed exactly as she envisions it.” (757.345.7123 www. greatwolf.com/williamsburg) Two Rivers Country Club This unbelievable beautiful venue provides the perfect setting for a wedding ceremony and reception. The distinctive Two Rivers Country Club offers breathtaking views spanning the James and Chickahominy rivers. The bride works with the club’s full service wedding specialist to select details that will personalize her wedding to reflect her unique style and taste. Spectacular sunsets across the James River set the stage for picture-perfect nuptials and reception in the beautiful gazebo, on the spacious lawn overlooking the 18th fairway, in elegant window-lined rooms. Award-winning chef, Tony Rizzo, and his talented staff prepare exceptional cuisine selected by the bride. From succulent appetizers to decadent desserts, Chef Rizzo carefully prepares and artfully presents every dish he creates. “Our wedding day was perfect,” says bride, Christine Cottingham, “even the weather. I felt like a princess. Everything was so beautiful. My parents and I didn’t have to worry about anything but enjoying the day. The staff took care of everything. And everyone raved about the food. I just wish I could do it all over again.” (www.governorsland.com 757.258.4610) St. Demetrios Hellenic Center “We welcome all denominations to use our church and our beautiful ballroom for their special day,” says Evelyn Jones, Wedding Coordinator and Director of Sales. “Couples do not have to be Greek Orthodox to be married in our church. We invite every religion.” When couples rent the center, they have continued on page 22

From this day forward...2014

CentralVirginia’s Premier Rustic Wedding, Country Chic Destination of Choice...

~ multiple venues ~ climate controlled facilities ~ bathrooms ~ barns ~ vineyard ~ rolling hills and so much more... 6800 New Kent Highway New Kent,Virginia 23124

(804)938-5528 www.TheVintagerInn.com 19

Kelly Marie Shafer marries

Lucas Robert Dontje Date April 27, 2013

The Ceremony and Reception The Vintager Inn The Tuxes Williamsburg Bridal and Formal The Photographer Brad Howe Wedding Jewelry The Master Craftsmen Shop The Honeymoon A western Caribbean cruise

Photos courtesy Brad Howe Photography

From this day forward...2014

Fun Facts Though Lucas and Kelly knew of each other in middle school, it wasn’t until Kelly was at Virginia Tech that she and Lucas were re-acquainted through her roommate. They began dating soon after. One week before being deployed in June 2012, Lucas proposed to Kelly on his mother’s dock. Completely taken by surprise, Kelly playfully slapped Lucas on his arm. When she realized what was actually going on, she quickly said ‘yes’ and kissed him. Kelly’s ring bearer’s pillow was actually her old, tattered travel pillow she had carried around as a child. Her mother had kept it and a wonderful family friend had it covered in burlap and lace and gave it to her to use for the wedding. At the rehearsal dinner, Lucas surprised Kelly with a beautiful necklace from The Master Craftsmen Shop. It featured her new monogram, which she wore for the wedding. She also wore her favorite silver bracelets from Master Craftsmen. “My mom started collecting their bracelets when she was in high school and passed on the tradition to my sisters and I,” said Kelly. “My something borrowed was an additional silver cuff bracelet from a dear family friend.” The Vintager Inn was rented out for the entire wedding weekend. Kelly and her bridal party spent the night there after the rehearsal dinner. They enjoyed a fabulous breakfast before getting ready for the ceremony and festivities, all of which took place on the grounds at the inn. Some of their guests stayed at the inn as well. In keeping with the rustic, vintage, burlap and lace theme, the bridesmaids wore cowboy boots with their bridesmaid dresses. Kelly and Lucas’ wedding cake toppers were bridal Barbie and a G.I. Joe action ﬁgure.

From this day forward...2014

continued from page 19 full access to the facilities for two days. This allows Jones to meet with vendors to ensure everything is just as the bride wants it to be. “We want her wedding to be stress-free so she can enjoy every minute of it,” adds Jones. With over 10,000 square feet of sophisticated event space, the Hellenic Center is the perfect venue for any style of wedding and can accommodate up to 400 guests. Full service catering and beverage service are available on site as are chairs, tables, linens, china, and more. “We have hosted some of the most gorgeous weddings here,” says Jones. “Everything from simple and elegant to over the top sophisticated and whimsical.” Immediately after the ceremony and before the reception, Jones whisks the bride and groom away to the bridal room. “We give the newlyweds a bottle of champagne and the chance to catch their breath,” says Jones. “They can be alone for a few moments to realize what is happening. It all goes so fast. We want them to make every moment a special memory.” (www. stdemetriosgreekorthodoxchurch.org 757.220.4284) The Schooner Alliance You and your guests will always cherish your romantic sunset wedding aboard the picturesque Schooner Alliance. Recite your vows and celebrate on board or charter a brunch sail before or after your wedding. With over 30 years of sailing experience, owners Greg and Laura Lohse know how to provide their guests with the ultimate sailing experience. The exquisite ship sets sail from Yorktown’s Riverwalk Landing Pier and cruises along the banks of the York River. Perfect for the more intimate celebration with room to accommodate up to 49 guests, Greg and Laura will help you customize your reception to ﬁt your budget and to

William & Mary

Catering

Elegant. Intimate. Unforgettable. Contact our catering specialist online at www.wm/dining or give them a call at (757)-221-3702. Let our team help make your day, a fairytale come true

achieve the atmosphere you desire. The Alliance has been host to elegant affairs with gourmet cuisine as well as casual receptions with a more informal menu and set up. The Alliance is the perfect way for newlyweds to “sail” into their future together. (www.sailyorktown.com 757.639.1233) Colonial Heritage Clubhouse “For the bride wanting a gorgeous setting and the ﬂexibility to create the wedding of her dreams, Colonial Heritage Clubhouse is the perfect venue for both the ceremony and reception,” says Victoria Dean, Director of Catering Sales. “If an outdoor ceremony is desired, the bride and groom can take advantage of our beautifully manicured, expansive lawn surrounded by our picturesque championship golf course. This setting is a photographer’s dream.” Inside, the clubhouse features a breathtaking, 25,000 squarefoot British-Colonial style ballroom, capable of accommodating up to 350 people. Once the bride’s vision and style has been determined, the professional team of Coordinating Specialists is available to help plan every wedding detail. They can help with menu customization, décor conception, coordination of tables, tableware, and linens, and anything else that needs to be done. Whether a more casual theme is preferred or a more formal, traditional style is chosen, Colonial Heritage Clubhouse is the perfect place for couples to showcase their personalities, interests, and style. (www.colonialheritageclub.com 757.645.2011) Legacy Hall Legacy Hall in New Town is the perfect venue for a wedding reception. Its versatility allows it to be used for formal or informal celebrations. With capacity at 299 guests, your recep-

Cary Hill circa 1741

Artfully A tf ll maintained ai tai d for over 250 years!

Historic Private Estate once again available for corporate events, ceremonies, and private parties. Consider Cary Hill for your intimate ceremony or small wedding venue, complete with Guest Cottage.

Wedding and Elopement Packages available with Honeymoon Cottage. For all you could possibly want for your special day.

Caryhill1741.com 11401 Eagles Nest Road Charles City County, Virginia 23030 Special Event Coordinator Robin Schreiber ~ 757-870-3539

From this day forward...2014

tion can be intimate or filled with lots of friends and family. Twenty round tables, 175 cloth-seated chairs, and 100 stackable chairs are available, creating many different ways to set up this hall to accommodate your personal style or theme. For added convenience, Legacy Hall staff will set up and break down tables and chairs. Choose your favorite caterer for food and beverage service. Or bring in food you have prepared and take advantage of the well-equipped kitchen that enables you to perform basic services and reheat food if necessary. Arrange for someone to bring in decorations, linens, and tableware to further enhance your theme. Large or small, this venue is an ideal spot for your wedding day celebration. (www.jamescitycountyva.gov 757.259.5410) Opus 9 “There is something so special about a wedding,” says Jessica Smith, Director of Sales and Marketing at Opus 9 Steakhouse. “We know that you only have one chance to get it right. This is exactly how we feel about our performance when we plan an event with our guests. We make every effort to get to know our guests’ needs and desires which enables us to personalize their experience at Opus 9.” Located in trendy New Town, Opus 9 epitomizes fine dining. From our melt-in-your-mouth steaks and exceedingly fresh seafood to our diverse wine list, guests dine in casual elegance and relaxed sophistication. Private dining accommodations complete the more intimate occasion complemented with discernable personalized, first-class service. (www.opus9steakhouse.com 757.645.4779) Catering When choosing a caterer for your wedding reception, it is always a good idea to go with details in hand. The date, the venue, and the number of guests who will be invited are very important details caterers need to know. Using a caterer gives the bride the freedom to coordinate the food, the presentation, and the set up with the theme or style of the wedding. The Catering Company “Your choices are only limited by your imagination.” This statement comes directly from the creative and passionate catering team at The Catering Company. This 20-year-successful business is Hampton Roads’ leading specialty event catering company. It is the perfect choice for the bride and groom seeking expert consultation, gourmet cuisine, and impeccable service. The epicurean experts and event coordinators at The Catering Company customize menus to accommodate couples’ taste preferences, their style and theme, and their budget demands. They can also provide flowers, linens, china, flatware, glassware, lighting, and décor to help the bride and groom transform their chosen site into their perfect wedding backdrop. “We provide a catering experience that is all about the bride

and groom,” says Laura Reeves, Event Coordinator and owner. She and husband, Greg, and their courteous, professional staff attend to every detail to ensure that the food is fabulous, the presentation unique and inviting, and the couple is stress-free and enjoying their most memorable event. “We love a new challenge,” says Reeves. Whether it involves a new theme, a couple wanting authentic Korean food, a glutenfree menu, or a farm-to-table menu, The Catering Company has all of the capabilities to give their clients the very best of what they want. ( www.williamsburgoccasions.com 757.220.8011) William & Mary Catering “Our masterful chefs help the bride and groom create the perfect menu for their reception,” says Julie Davenport, Catering Coordinator for William and Mary Catering. “Action stations are a solid trend for us. Stations featuring chef attendants carving meats like lamb and ﬂank steak are popular as are stir-fry stations, mashed potato bars, and mac ‘n’ cheese bars. We also prepare a lot of “second meals.” Second meals are generally set up after the cake has been served and consist of comfort food bars such as a nachos bar, milk and decadent cookies bar, or a gourmet grilled cheese bar. “It’s all about the bride and groom. We can create any menu they want,” says Davenport, “to ﬁt their style and theme, their budget, and any dietary restrictions.” A full service catering company, William and Mary Catering has a trained bar and service staff and can work with receptions hosting anywhere from 12 to 1,000 guests. They provide setup, service, and breakdown of all food and beverages. From informal menus like a pig roast to the most elegant and formal dinner reception, William and Mary Catering is the perfect choice. (www.wmcatering.catertrax.com 757.221.3702) Accommodations Great Wolf Lodge Your wedding can become a vacation for your family and friends at Great Wolf Lodge. The suites alone are something to see. Choose from one of their standard suites, or choose a themed suite, such as the Wolf Den Suite, complete with cave, a KidKamp suite with a cozy tent inside, or a KidCabin Suite equipped with its own miniature log cabin. Or upgrade to one of their premium suites, like the Whirlpool Fireplace Suite with your own private whirlpool. Guests will not want to miss the infamous indoor water park. With rides and slides for parents and kids of all ages, it will be hard to pull them away from the fun. Other amusements include MagiQuest®, Scooops® Kid Spa, an arcade room, mini golf, bowling alley, and a theater. What a fantastic place to enjoy some great fun with your family and friends. (www.greatwolf. com 757.229.9700) The Vintager Inn This elegant circa 1855 inn is nestled on 65 tranquil acres in New Kent, not far from Williamsburg. It is adjacent to New Kent Winery and Vinterra Golf Course and is just a short drive to historic plantations, Colonial Downs, outlet shopping, and sporting events. Perfect for a night’s stay or weekend retreat, guests can wake to a fabulous home-cooked breakfast, often prepared by the owner’s mother. The inn also offers several bed and breakfast getaway packages, including golf, history, and romantic possibilities. (www.thevintagerinn.com 804.938.5528) --Kathy Zaun

The Catering Company

From this day forward...2014

nspired Events by Kelly provides event design, event & wedding planning, management and day of coordination for all your special occasions. Whether your event is a fun theme party, corporate award gala to an elegant wedding reception, we will design and produce the magical moment for you and your guests. We believe that successful events are built on relationships. Relationships begin with the initial consultation and from there we provide a detail proposal of your event. Custom proposals are what we believe is the perfect ďŹ t for our clients, therefore, all proposals are based on individual clients needs and dreams. We turn dreams into reality and then reality into magical moments that become lasting memories.

If you are you looking for a detailed and organized event designer and or planner, call us today.

kelly@inspiredeventsbykelly.com â&#x153;Ľ 757.291.5369

From this day forward...2014

Aisle Style The spring bridal market runway shows brought a fresh crop of gown inspiration, loaded with chic silhouettes, fabulous fabrics, and breathtaking wedding accessories. Lace, tulle, and chiffon in shades of whites and creams, soft pinks, baby blues, and even black ﬂoated down the catwalks. Gold embellishments were everywhere. Brides in the Hampton Roads area and Richmond are privileged to have three distinguished bridal salons at their service: The Inspired Bride, Williamsburg Bridal and Formal, and Blush. Each offers brides generous selections of gowns, bridesmaid dresses, groom and groomsmen attire, mother-of-the-bride and -groom dresses, and amazing accessories. Whether looking for a gown that would be perfect for a vineyard wedding or a formal ballroom wedding with glitz and sparkles, these three bridal establishments have exactly what a bride needs. The Inspired Bride It didn’t take long for the elegant and intimate Inspired Bride to become a favorite for brides all over Virginia. Open just over a year, The Inspired Bride is already in the process of expanding their shop. “We have an extensive inventory of exquisite gowns by some of today’s most admired designers like Sottero and Midgely, La Sposa, Kathy Ireland, and Ella,” says owner, Jamie McLean, “and we will be able to offer even

“Stunning gowns for savvy brides”

Over 400 current style bridal gowns in stock including brand new, designer samples and once-worn gowns at incredible prices. New! Now carrying bridesmaid gowns by Jordan. View samples in the store or online at www.jordanfashions.com Plus a large selection of new and consigned veils, headpieces, custom jewelry, special occasion gowns and accessories.

Just off the square at Port Warwick 185 Herman Melville Ave., Newport News 757-595-7797 www.blushgowns.com Brides and consignors by appointment. 26

more formal wear for grooms, mothers, bridesmaids, and for other formal occasions.” She and salon manager and bridal consultant specialist, Susan Sander help the younger bride, the more mature bride, and the bride going on a destination wedding find the perfect gown to complement their body type, style and budget. The Inspired Bride “We want the bridal gown shopping experience to be a fun and memorable time for our brides,” says McLean. “Brides can come in by themselves or they can bring in their entire bridal party. Some come in limousines, some bring in wine and snacks. We don’t limit our brides to one hour. Each bride can have as much time as she needs and can try on as many gowns as she wants until she finds the perfect gown. We spend a lot of time with our brides.” Once a bride has said ‘yes to the dress’, there is always a champagne toast by the mother or one of the bridesmaids. “Even the toughest mother tears up,” says McLean. “It’s a very memorable occasion.” More space enables The Inspired Bride to offer an even greater selection of bridesmaid dresses, mothers’ dresses, tuxedos and suits, and formal wear perfect for such events as proms, military balls, and other formal occasions. (www.theinspiredbride.com 757.345.0008) Williamsburg Bridal and Formal An enduring favorite of brides and grooms for over 12 years is Williamsburg Bridal and Formal. “Personalization is big in the wedding industry and in everything we do,” says Ellen Evans, owner. “Not only do our brides get excellent personalized service, but we also carry two fabulous dress lines that enable brides to essentially create and personalize their dream gowns. Of course, brides can still choose a stunning gown from such designers as Ella Rosa, Casablanca, Jasmine, Watters, and Wtoo.” “So many brides have the perfect vision of the dress they want,” says Evans. “They want it to reflect their personality and fit in with their particular style or theme of wedding.” Regardless of a bride’s age, venue, ceremony, or style, Williamsburg Bridal and Formal will help her find or create the perfect dress to fit her budget and style. “Our custom design lines enable us to lengthen or shorten a dress, add or change beading and fabrics, add the top of one gown to the bottom of another. There are so many possibilities,” continues Evans.

From this day forward...2014

“Many brides bring in pictures of gowns they like and are able to combine different options to get exactly what they want. We can then help them design a headpiece in the same fashion, and help them accessorize with shoes, handbags, and jewelry.” Mothers, bridesmaids, flower girls, and grooms are also well attended. “While other bridal shops don’t cater as much to mothers, we have lines with beautiful options to fit every mother. Our selections from Angelo even feature separates,” says Evans. The shop has an extensive collection of bridesmaid dresses to complement the bride’s gown and to flatter each attendant’s figure and budget. The groom and groomsmen can choose from tuxedos with all of the latest styles colors in coats, ties, and vests. (www.williamsburgbridalandformal.com 757.229.5004) Blush “Many people think that consignment means ‘used’,” says Holly Yakowsky, owner of Blush Bridal Consignment Boutique. “Actually, over half of the 400 dresses we have in stock are brand new with the tags still on.” Whether brand new or worn once, brides-to-be have the opportunity to find an exquisite gown, less than three years old, at a fraction of the original cost. “We have an extensive variety of gowns all at different price points, from designers like Allure, Kitty Chen, Pronovias, Maggie Sottero, Casablanca, and a multitude of others,” says Yakowsky. “Most bridal shops only carry a few lines.” Blush also offers a large variety of accessories, some new and some on consignment. Yakowsky can also order accessories for brides, such as veils, crinolines, jewelry, handbags, shoes, and headpieces. “One item that has been especially popular is the beaded belt,” says Yakowsky. “Brides wearing simpler dresses have me order them gorgeous, beaded belts encrusted with pearls, crystals, lace. It’s an easy way to add a little flair. We are also seeing more jackets for brides wanting the option to cover up a little more, perhaps in a church or outside.” For bridal party attire, Yakowsky works with one of the leading manufacturers in the country. She has a beautiful selection of gowns for mothers, bridesmaids, and flower girls available in her store and can order any style or color of dress desired. Brides at Blush can relax as they search for that one special dress. “Shopping for a wedding gown should be enjoyable and memorable,” says Yakowsky, “and that’s why we’re here.” (www.blushgowns. com 757.595.7797) --Kathy Zaun The Inspired Bride

From this day forward...2014

Williamsburg Bridal & Formal Williamsburg’s Premier Full-Service Bridal Salon

We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service & attention to detail.

229-5004 1915 Pocahontas Trail, Suite E8 The Village Shops at Kingsmill Williamsburg www.williamsburgbridalandformal.com 27

Angela Geralis marries Dr. Ernest Z ichal

Date October 19, 2013

The Cake Cakes by Charlie

The Ceremony St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church The Invitations P.S. Paperie The Reception/Caterer Williamsburg Hellenic Center The Flowers Events in Bloom, Jennifer Litterst Fun Facts: Angela and Ernest met in New Jersey but decided to move to Virginia for an employment opportunity. While they were looking for houses, Ernest gave Angela a beautiful dress and shoes that he had bought for a special evening. On May 19, 2012, Ernest proposed to Angela on bended knee at a restaurant in Williamsburg. Angela and Ernest were the ďŹ rst couple to celebrate a Greek Orthodox wedding at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Williamsburg.

Photos courtesy Heather Hughes Photography

From this day forward...2014

Addison Howell marries

Date June 29, 2013 The Ceremony and Reception The Vintager Inn Catering/Linens The Catering Company

Cory Veit

The Cake Cakes by Charlie

The Flowers The Flower Cupboard

Fun Facts: The Vintager Inn has many structures featuring a large “V” on them. This instantly personalized many of the couple’s photos, as their last name begins with V. There was a custom-built door structure at Addison and Corey’s outdoor ceremony, fashioned from the old church doors Corey’s parents had walked through on their wedding day.

Photos courtesy of Rebekah Beasley of Rebekah Beasley Photography

From this day forward...2014

Bridal Blooms Brides, florists, and wedding planners have become so creative and innovative with their flower selections that there are some really exciting and fresh new trends for 2014. For example, the once-outdated baby’s breath is officially back in, and it’s looking better than ever. Thanks in part to Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding, bringing the outside in will be popular in 2014. Flowering trees will be apparent throughout décor. Large “wow factor” centerpieces will dominate the receptions of couples wanting their guests to be amazed when they walk into the reception. Lighting is playing an ever-important role in flowers and wedding décor. Florists are being asked to add specialist lighting that can be remotely controlled. Generic cookie-cutter bouquets are becoming more rare these days, giving way to anything creative and custom-designed. The Flower Cupboard “Everything is definitely personalized and customized today,” says Cathy Nester, designer and owner of The Flower Cupboard. “Trends come and go. I tell brides to do what they want. Thirty years from now, I want them to look back and say, ‘Wow! That day was all about me!’” The full service wedding designers and event planners at The Flower Cupboard offer brides everything from total event production and wedding management services to day-of coordination and set up help. “Yes, we create fabulous floral

centerpieces, bouquets, and ceremony arrangements, but being a full service wedding shop, we can do whatever the bride wants,” says Nester. “Our brides are not limited to just flowers. If she wants fewer flowers and more props, we provide that. We have more than just arches and pedestals,” continues Nester. “Our props include Eiffel Towers, antiques, candelablrums, tall vases, silver and glass bowls, and many other items. We even have furniture brides can rent to enhance their theme or style. One bride with a vintage and lace theme wanted to incorporate an antique sofa of her grandmother’s into her reception décor. We picked it up from her house, decorated it, and set it up at the reception for her. We do whatever it is the bride wants. Our number one goal is to ensure that the bride is happy, stressfree and enjoying her special day.” (www.flowercupboard.com 757.220.0057) Events in Bloom “I don’t do wedding packages,” says Jennifer Litterst, AIFD, owner of Events in Bloom in Williamsburg. “Every bride and every wedding is unique. I get to know my brides so that I am familiar with their personalities, tastes, styles, and budgets. I follow them on Pinterest to keep informed on things they might be interested in and anything I might be able to use in their wedding planning and design.” Events in Bloom is the perfect choice for the bride needing

Creating only beautiful events… 757-810-6099

Photos by Brad Howe Photography

The Flower Cupboard

www.eventsinbloom.biz 30

Photo by Brad Howe Photography

From this day forward...2014

help with the décor for the ceremony and reception. From gorgeous floral décor and bouquets to candles, arches, linens, chair covers, and lighting, Litterst helps brides with the complete look of their reception, not just the table decorations. “Weddings today are still very beautiful and elegant, but often there is an emphasis on such themes as vintage, romantic, and country chic,” says Litterst. “For one bride’s vintage-inspired reception, we used Mason jars, burlap, lace, and wild flowers. The table decorations consisted of candles, birdcages, lanterns, and lace. It was gorgeous.” The traditional floral centerpieces from yesterday are now often enhanced with the addition of personal and meaningful items. One bride incorporated her mother’s collection of silver frames, bowls, candy dishes, and trays into her table decorations and cake table. “It’s all about the bride. I do whatever I can to help her create and execute her vision of her perfect wedding,” says Litterst. (www.eventsinbloom.biz 757.810.6099) Morrisons’s Flowers and Gifts “Lots of bling and sparkle.” When asked what brides want in terms of floral bouquets and decorations at their wedding ceremony and reception, this was the answer given by Arlene Aitken, owner of Morrison’s Flowers and Gifts. “Our brides are adding pearl, rhinestone, and crystal picks and sprays to their bouquets and centerpieces,” says Aitken. “They really add a

special energy to the whole event. Many brides are also attaching such special items as an antique brooch from their great grandmother to the front of their bouquet or wrapping their bouquet handles in an old piece of lace from their mother’s gown. It’s all very personal. We are happy to inEvents in Bloom corporate anything Photo by Brad Howe Photography the brides want.” Serving the area for 20 years, Morrison’s has a team of floral designers who work with brides to create exactly what they want for their special day. They can create arches, aisle runners, and other decorations to fit with the theme or style of the wedding. Their large selection of containers, candelabrum, and flutes enables Morrison’s clients to choose the perfect pieces for their special event. For an added touch, Morrison’s will make up special gift baskets to be delivered to the hotel where guests are staying. The baskets can include chocolate, fruit, flowers, and other treats. (www.morrisonsflowersandgifts.com 757.220.1242) --Kathy Zaun

Let UsYour Color Wedding Providing stunning wedding and event ﬂowers to the greater Williamsburg area for almost 25 years.

1303 Jamestown Rd, Ste 129, Williamsburg Email Arlene at morrisonsﬂowers@aol.com (757) 220-1242 • Morrisonsﬂowers.com Morrison’s Flowers and Gifts

From this day forward...2014

FIND US ON FACEBOOK AT MORRISONS FLOWERS

Katherine Spencer p marries

Date September 1, 2013 The Gown, Bridesmaid Dresses, Tuxes The Inspired Bride

Andrew Dean The Honeymoon Sandals Grande Riviera, Jamaica

The Flowers Morrison’s Flowers Fun Facts: Katie and Andy met on an airplane on their way to Orlando. He ﬂew back to Virginia on a Sunday, and he picked her up from the airport on Monday.

Photos courtesy of Jen + Ashley Photography

Andy proposed to Katie on St. Patrick’s Day 2013 at Reagan International Airport. The proposal was at the exact spot where he had picked her up from Orlando the ﬁrst weekend they met.

Destiny Morrow marries arriies

Ben Rothwell

Photos courtesy MS2 Photography

Date June 13, 2013 The Gown Blush Bridal Consignment Boutique The Bridesmaid Dresses The Inspired Bride The Flowers Morrison’s Flowers and Gifts Fun Facts: Ben and Destiny met when they were 9 and 7 years old. Although Destiny was Ben’s ﬁrst crush, Destiny didn’t return the sentiments until she was 19 and he was 21. Ben surprised Destiny on Christmas Eve in 2012 when he proposed to her in front of her entire family, including her grandparents.

From this day forward...2014

A Perfect Setting for a

Historic Occasion

Hampton Roads Photography

100 Museum Drive | Newport News, VA 23606 (757) 591-5124 | events@MarinersMuseum.org MarinersMuseum.org/EventRentals

From this day forward...2014

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From this day forward...2014

Pick Your Paradise The big celebration is over. It’s time for the much-anticipated honeymoon! With endless possibilities, how does a couple choose where to go? Does an exotic place like the island of Curacao sound exciting? Or would the two of you prefer a more adventurous honeymoon, going jet-boating in New Zealand? Vermont, Mexico, and Italy set the stage for a very romantic honeymoon. To help you decide where to go and plan your trip, The Travel Corner and AAA are your perfect resources. The travel experts at The Travel Corner have been helping people plan their dream vacations for over 27 years. “Many couples have no idea where they want to go for their honeymoon,” says Allyson deHaven Harris (owner and manager). “We help them narrow their choices and plan the perfect honeymoon within their budget.” Though many couples book trips through online travel companies, deHaven Harris points out the beneﬁts of working with The Travel Corner. “Our services are free. We offer couples more than they would get booking online. Our travel industry connections enable us to offer exclusive specials and perks. There are no surprises, like arriving at a resort that is undergo-

Photo courtesy of Ashleigh & Carter Evans From this day forward...2014

ing a complete renovation. Or entering your ocean-view room that consists of only a glimpse of the water.” Regardless of what you have to spend on a vacation or where you want to go, The Travel Corner prides itself on giving you the experience of a lifetime. (757.220.1920) “AAA travel agents help couples plan their dream destination weddings or honeymoons every day,” says Louis Jenis of AAA Norfolk Travel Center. “Being the largest travel agency in the country, AAA can offer discounts, upgrades, and other unique amenities. We work to understand what kind of trip each couple is looking for, be it romantic, adventurous, cultural, or a little of all three. Then we provide suggestions and determine itineraries to suit each couple’s desires for their perfect getaway.” When planning a destination wedding, AAA helps couples understand the legal requirements of different places. Tahiti has such strict legal obligations that it is often not feasible for guests to marry there. Some islands, on the other hand, allow guests to say their vows the same day they arrive. AAA is also very conscious of the guests’ budgets and can offer several different resorts close by from which to choose. (www.AAA.com/ romance 757.965.2229) Take advantage of travel agencies. Their free expertise can make all the difference in your honeymoon.

At Sandals® everything you could possibly imagine has been thought of, including all the luxury of a ﬁve-star resort. The difference is that our luxury is included and so is the fun. After all the pressure of your wedding, now’s the moment to let loose and have the time of your life. Experience more unlimited land and water sports—including scuba diving and golf*—than any other resorts on the planet. Savor unlimited specialty dining at up to 15 restaurants per resort. Enjoy endless premium brand drinks including Stone Cellars by Beringer ® Wines at up to nine bars. Relax in the most unique honeymoon suites in the Caribbean. Sandals is the perfect choice for a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon.

–Kathy Zaun

JAMAICA • ANTIGUA • SAINT LUCIA • BAHAMAS • GRENADA • BARBADOS

Call 757·220·1920 for details

Voted #1 Travel Agency in Williamsburg for 12 years 149 Monticello Avenue Williamsburg, VA 23185 *Unlimited scuba diving included for certiﬁed divers. PADI dive courses and night dives additional. Greens fees additional at Sandals Emerald Bay, Great Exuma, Bahamas. In Jamaica and Saint Lucia, caddies are mandatory but not included. Sandals® is a registered trademark.

From this day forward...2014

The Perfect Setting for Your Perfect Day Set amid the historical backdrop of Williamsburg, Virginia, Colonial Heritage Club offers an unparalleled site for hosting weddings. Please present this page during booking for

COMPLIMENTARY CHAMPAGNE TOAST Offer Valid with purchase of a wedding package till July 1, 2014

www.colonialheritageclub.com (757) 645-2011 AAA Travel Now Specializes in Romantic Occasions

Where will love take you? Let a AAA Travel expert help you discover the vacation destination that’s right for you – from intimate and secluded, to cosmopolitan and chic. Whatever romantic escape you choose, trust us to take care of the details, leaving nothing to chance and letting you focus on what’s really important each other. To book your romantic occasion, visit AAA.com/Romance, call 757-965-2229 or visit your local AAA Travel agent today!

Honeymoons 38

Destination Weddings

Vow Renewals

Anniversaries From this day forward...2014

Your Dayâ&#x20AC;ŚYour Way Great Wolf LodgeÂŽ is the perfect setting to start your new lives together. With us you ďŹ nd a modern and elegant function space, masterful chefs and all-suite accommodations for your guests. Most importantly, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll partner with a team of professionals fully vested in giving you the event of your dreams.

Wedding Package Options

Wedding Coordinator QualiďŹ ed and professional staďŹ&#x20AC; are ready to assist you with planning the details of your special day.

Banquet Facilities !

250 "

Private Facilities # $ $ ! %

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Start the conversation by contacting our Sales and CateringTeam at 757.345.7982 or email williamsburgsalesteam@greatwolf.com greatwolf.com/meetings 549 East Rochambeau Drive - Williamsburg, VA 23188

GROUPS & MEETINGS

Your Dreams Can Come True… From grand and elaborate to casual and comfortable, The Settlement at Powhatan Creek’s spacious clubhouse has both indoor and outdoor spaces for the wedding, reception, or rehearsal dinner of your dreams. Areas available include a ballroom, catering kitchen, atrium and gallery, arts and crafts/meeting rooms, a game room and outdoor pool area. J & D Photography

Our award winning clubhouse is both elegant and affordable. Onsite tables and chairs are included at no extra cost. Outside caterers are welcome. An on-site host is present to make sure your wedding, reception or rehearsal dinner is the one of your dreams. Make your ﬁrst memory together an unforgettable one at The Settlement.

Worthington Photography

Lisa Cummings Photography

J & D Photography

The Settlement at Powhatan Creek 4101 Monticello Avenue, Williamsburg 757-645-3000 www.thesettlement.net