Love Inc. V5

VOLUME #5

CULINARY EXPERIENCES: TRAVEL THAT EXCITES ALL FIVE SENSES!

our very own FOUNDER shares her wedding details 5 ROAD-TRIP ITINERARIES FOR HONEYMOONERS

INSTA-CELEBS The Gay Beards share their grooming secrets

BLURRING

THE BINARY IN WEDDING FASHION

WEDDING PLANNER vs. DESIGNER vs. COORDINATOR: We break down the differences of each

SHOW OFF YOUR NEW STATUS WITH OUR MONOGRAM GUIDE

You are cordially invited to join an innovative new wedding inspiration platform brought to you by the world’s top wedding bloggers.

DISCOVER NEW IDEAS, COLLECT INSPIRATION AND CONNECT WITH VENDORS LIKE NEVER BEFORE. Be one of the first to become a Society Starter! Visit aislesociety.com to get on the list for early access to this incredible new wedding resource!

AISLESOCIETY.COM

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| STYLE

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| PLAN

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| LOOK

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| INSPIRE

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| DESTINATION

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| RESOURCES

‘90s-inspired gowns flock to the runway; marrying feminine and masculine details defy archetypal wedding fashion; an expert’s secrets for brides and grooms on a budget; tips for retaining your wedding attire in perfect form

#BehindTheScenes

Unexpected ingredients to take your desserts to the next level; monogram etiquette to perfect your personal motif; shake up your dessert table with a single sweet; who to hire for your wedding planning checklist

Grooming tips from Instagram’s favorite bearded duo; skincare recipes for every complexion

Three couples fill their weddings with whimsically wonderful details, from a Hamptons escape and a forest adventure to our very own founder’s creative ceremony and reception bursting with inspiration

Indulge your inner-foodie in a one-of-akind interactive culinary treat; hit the road for an adventure-driven honeymoon

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @LOVEINCMAG FOR MORE BEHIND-THE-SCENES ACTION.

ON THE COVER FRESHEN UP FORMALITY WITH A MODERN POMPADOUR Photo by Ryan Carville // Makeup and hair by BetsyElisa Inc. // Modeling by Taylor, MSA Models

COPYRIGHT DRYE PUBLISHING, LLC

Talented, equality-minded vendors

editor’s letter THIS IS A PARTICULARLY SPECIAL ISSUE FOR ME PERSONALLY, AS IT’S IN THIS ISSUE THAT I SHARE MY OWN WEDDING. A QUESTION THAT MANY ENGAGED COUPLES INTRIGUINGLY ASK NEWLYWEDS IS, “WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY?” AND, TRUTHFULLY, FOR ME … ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. WE CREATED A DAY THAT TOLD OUR LOVE STORY IN THE DETAILS AND DECISIONS— FROM RECITING THE MARRIAGE EQUALITY SUPREME COURT RULING DURING OUR CEREMONY TO HAVING OUR BELOVED CAT REPRESENTED IN MANY, MANY MOMENTS!

Founder & Editor-in-Chief Brittny Drye Art Director Abby Downing Fashion Editor Krista Roser Copy Editor Jill Baughman Editorial Assistant Danielle Renton Contributors Meghan Kennedy Kate Abney

@LOVEINCMAG /LOVEINCWED @LOVEINCMAG 4

Along with my special day (page 50), we share two vastly different but equally gorgeous celebrations. On page 41, Chris and Daniel exchanged vows at a private Hamptons property in a celebration that was both preppy chic (creamy palette, Sperry tents and Burberry blazers … yes, please!) and relaxed (‘80s tunes and sunset pool plunge, anyone?). Alternatively, Kate and Ellen (page 46) retreated deep into the forest to officialize their love in a beautifully styled elopement filled with handmade details.

And once the vows have been exchanged, the toasts have been made and the dances have ended, the real fun begins: you’re married! If you decided to change your last name, be sure to read our monogram guide on page 26, and ensure that your wedding-day attire stays in keepsake form long past the wedding date with our tips for preserving your suit, gown and accessories on page 16.

So whether you just said “Yes!” or are weeks out from saying “I do,” let our content be your guide for before, during and after the happiest day of your life.

PHOTO CREDIT: ALLAN ZEPEDA PHOTOGRAPHY

VOLUME 5

And although I certainly hope you draw inspiration from our pages, my biggest goal is that you make any ideas your own and tell your love story.

Whether it’s serving a nontraditional dessert that speaks to your sweet tooth (page 28), straying away from the strict binary-driven wedding fashion and creating a look that is composed of both feminine and masculine elements (page 7) or, quite literally, embarking on the road less traveled for a road-trip honeymoon (page 64), take any ideas you gather and add your personal touch. As a newlywed to a nearlywed, that is my number one piece of advice.

Style NINETIES NOSTALGIA

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BLENDED BINARY

07

BUDGET-SAVVY SHOPPING

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CONSERVING KEEPSAKES

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‘90s surgen;ce in . re a w a s s nostalgia 16 runway The Fall 20 served up style … and t fashions tha

APS TTI STR S P A G H E andra’ by Kenneth lon Livne; ‘Z A ah illes’ by Sar Pool; ‘Marse Seven

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by so; ‘Audrey’ Dennis Bas m ee R ; re tu Eugenia Cou Acra

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oelle’ by Amsale; ‘N ‘Bleeker’ by ada’ by Elizabeth n; ‘J Reformatio Fillmore

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; Mat thew Anne Barge ayley Paige ;H er ph to is Chr Blush

FLUID FASHION

BLURRING THE BINARY, TYPICAL FEMININE AND MASCULINE DETAILS BLEND BEAUTIFULLY TO CREATE WEDDINGWORTHY LOOKS THAT REFLECT SELF-EXPRESSION. Produced by Brittny Drye, Krista Roser and Ryan Carville Styling by Krista Roser Photography by Ryan Carville Hair and makeup by Betsy Elisa Inc. Set at The Wythe Hotel Modeling by Taylor of MSA Models

Blouse by Jill Stuart, price upon request; chevron stud earrings in rose gold by Miranda Frye, $30; ‘Markas’ ring

by Phyllis + Rosie, $100

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LEFT ‘Leigh’ chambray cold-shoulder blouse ($255) and ‘Skyscraper’ washed chambray wide-leg pant ($290) by Nicole Miller Artelier; chevron stud earrings in silver by Miranda Frye, $60; ‘Venice’ brocade necktie by Sisters of Nature, price upon request; ‘Mannzo-T’ booties by Steve Madden, $159.95 THIS PAGE ‘Florentina’ blouse ($478) and ‘Jodie’ pants in powder ($548) by Jill Stuart; ‘Allure’ ring ($41) and chevron stud earrings in rose gold ($30) by Miranda Frye; band ring by Kasané, $110

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LEFT ‘Don Lace’ cape

by OTT, $1,100; ‘Rae’ twill shorts in insignia blue by Jill Stuart, $348; ‘Cairo’ ring by Miranda Frye, $43; ‘Stacey’ earrings ($60) and ‘Epic’ bracelet (68)

by BauXo THIS PAGE ‘The Shawl’ with hand beading ($1,800), ‘The Tux’ in ivory ($150), drop-crotch pants ($250) and tie by The Tailory New York; ‘Top Oh’ hat by Yestadt Millinery, $350; ring (price upon request) and ‘Rivet’ stud earrings in gold ($49) by Miranda Frye; black slipper with cap toe by Louis Leeman, $750

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IMPRE$$ STAY IN STYLE AND ON BUDGET WITH OUR SHOPPING GUIDE FOR THE FINANCIALLY SAVVY. We asked the queen of soonlywed savings, Jessica Bishop of Budget Savvy Bride, to share her favorite stores for scoring serious deals on aisle accessories and fashions (plus tips on how to sniff out savings). Hello, good buys!

WEDDING DRESSES 1. B HLDN (left) “Anthropologie’s sister bridal line is filled with beautifully curated pieces from various designers that fit their ethereal aesthetic,” says Bishop. “To the delight of brides everywhere, the collection is majorly affordable and features several gorgeous designs under $1,500.”

2. D AVID’S BRIDAL (right) “It’s no surprise that you can get a wedding gown for a great price at this national retailer, but what’s been turning brides’ heads lately is their designer collaborations,” she exclaims. With lines designed by the likes of Melissa Sweet, Vera Wang, Zac Posen and Jenny Packham, you really can get a designer dress for less at your neighborhood David’s Bridal.

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NORDSTROM Don’t care about having a traditional bridal gown? Peruse the racks at your local Nordstrom. “They have a variety of floor-length gowns that come in bridal white and are practically perfect for more intimate or laid-back ceremonies,” notes Bishop.

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PHOTO BY ALEXIS JUNE WEDDINGS

DRESS TO

JESSICA’S TOP 10 TIPS FOR

SUITS & TUXES 1.

OWNONLY This online retailer offers completely custom suiting options for the soonlywed with discerning style, and with prices starting at $399, how could you say no? It’s worth a bit of an extra splurge for something you can wear again and again.

2.

DEPARTMENT STORES Many of your favorite department stores, such as Macy’s or Nordstrom, carry suits that are stylish and moderately priced, and by shopping during the right time of year, you can score major discounts. “Don’t overlook mall favorites J.Crew or Banana Republic, both of which carry a line of nice-looking suits. And be sure to watch out for the sales!” she adds.

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XEDO Renting a tux doesn’t have to be expensive or a pain. “You can save yourself some cash and a headache by trying out new online tuxedo rental company Xedo,” says Bishop. “They have several options to choose from, and your selection will be delivered via mail to your doorstep two weeks before the wedding to ensure everything is perfect in time for the big day.”

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Sign up for store emails to get special offers and discounts sent straight to your inbox. (Pro tip: Create a special email account just for wedding stuff to save your sanity.)

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Shop seasonally. Try to purchase your wedding attire in the “off season” from your wedding to score the most savings.

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Make sure to sign up for Ebates to get instant cash back when shopping online, or always check for coupons before shopping in-store.

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New website Paribus monitors your online purchases to find when items you’ve purchased go on sale after you’ve shopped to get an instant rebate!

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Consider splurging only on items that you’ll be able to wear again to get the most bang for your buck.

A pair of fabulous shoes or earrings will likely get more use than your wedding gown.

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If a designer frock is not in your budget, perhaps you’d rather rent an amazing gown from Rent the Runway? Score a

Monique Lhuillier or Badgley Mischka gown for a fraction of the cost of buying it at retail price.

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New to you? Consider shopping secondhand stores for a wedding gown, or pop in to the sample sales at your local bridal boutiques to score a designer dress for less.

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Check out online dress resellers like Nearly Newlywed or Tradesy for once-worn designer wedding gowns at deep discounts.

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Be savvy! Do your research and shop around for the best prices on things that can be purchased from multiple places.

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Borrow when possible. Every bride needs a “something borrowed,” so take advantage of beautiful pieces owned by your loved ones. A vintage pair of earrings or an heirloom veil can make your wedding day look even more special and save you from having to buy new.

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BRIDESMAID DRESSES 1.

RENT THE RUNWAY Rent a dress by a favorite designer, look flawless and don’t worry about your bridesmaids having to look for an excuse to rewear an overpriced frock again!

2.

AZAZIE Trying to find one style to fit all your various friends can be a huge challenge. Skip the drama and solve your dress dilemmas with Azazie, which offers customized dresses in a variety of styles, colors and fabrics. “Custom bridesmaid dresses are totally doable at these prices, which start at $99,” she adds.

3.

YOUR FAVORITE STORE Whether you love ASOS or Ann Taylor, you could totally nab bridesmaid dresses from your personal favorite place to shop. Make sure to keep an eye out for sales and discounts, or use Ebates if you’re shopping online.

DAPPER ACCESSORIES 1. THE GRUNION RUN (above) “This online shop is filled with creative and colorful accessories at super savvy prices,” she says. “From neckties and pocket squares to suspenders and tie bars, you can find the perfect pieces to add polish to your wedding day look.”

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ETSY When it comes to finding creative or unique accessories for anyone in the wedding party, Etsy is the obvious choice.

Thanks to the nearly unlimited amount of options at your fingertips, you’re sure to find something that fits your style and budget.

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THE TIE BAR This website has the most stylish options available for neckties and beyond, with added customizations like choosing the width of your tie. Choose from ties made with silk, wool, cotton, linen and more in a variety of colors to get exactly the look you want at a great price.

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BRIDAL STYLE 1.

BAUBLEBAR This online retailer has a wide assortment of jewelry styles at prices that won’t kill your budget. From classic and preppy to edgy and modern, no matter your style, you can find a piece to accent your look from BaubleBar. They have great personalized pieces for bridesmaids gifts, too!

2.

LAFONN “If you’re looking for the effect of real diamond and gemstone jewelry but just can’t bring yourself to drop that kind of money, Lafonn brings that luxurious style within reach,” shares Bishop. “Their designs feature precious metals and simulated diamonds that you have to see to believe.”

3.

HAPPILY EVER BORROWED Want to wear something blingy but don’t want to shell out the cash? Check out Happily Ever Borrowed’s assortment of rental jewelry, tiaras and headpieces to complete your wedding look for less.

post-wedding PRESERVATION

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKI VARGAS

After making memories that will last a lifetime, it’s only fair that the outfit they were made in gets to maintain its glory for as long as possible … perhaps to even play a Something Old role one day! Whether it’s made from lace, silk or suede, we’ve covered the textile topics to help keep your wedding wardrobe in tip-top shape.

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YOUR WEDDING DRESS

By Danielle Renton Each gown is made of its own combination of delicate materials that are going to age uniquely depending on its composition.

Consult with a preservationist who will inspect your gown and tailor cleaning and storage methods specific to your gown’s needs.

CLEAN IT: Wet vs. Dry WET: Using simply water or gentle cleansers, your gown will be hand-washed to remove any stains or spots.

• P articularly practical for food stains, especially involving sugar.

• D oes not leave behind chemical residue, as dry cleaning could, which can cause fabric to become damaged over time.

• U sed to extract water-based stains. If stains are oil-based, dry cleaning is a better option.

DRY: This method is used handin-hand with different cleaning solvents in a dry-cleaning machine.

• M ost solvents are recycled and contain impurities, so when it comes to your wedding dress, be sure to request a virgin solvent to ensure it’s being cleaned with the purest option. (If you’re looking for an earth-friendly option, use a petroleum-based solvent.)

• F or gowns with sequins and beads, steer clear of the com-

mon dry-cleaning solvent Perchloroethylene, aka Perc.

This chemical could potentially melt the glue that holds embellishments in place, causing them to fall off during the cleaning process or loosen over time.

• T he machine mechanisms can increase damage risk.

STORE IT: Bag vs. Box BAG: Be sure to use bags specifically made for wedding dress preservation.

• Allows your dress to hang freely rather than the alternative of folded up in a box.

• You don’t have to remove the dress from its packaging because it isn’t at risk for permanent creasing.

• Zippers have the tendency to allow particles and bugs to seep in, so look for a bag with overlapping closures.

• If your dress is clad in heavy embellishments or has a long train, hanging it for preservation might weigh the dress down over time.

BOX: The main concern of preserving your dress in a box is the idea of folding it up. However, when done correctly and gently, this is the best option for preserving your dress.

• A box is sealed tight, allowing the dress to be kept in a dark space, which keeps out any unwanted particles or impurities.

• T he preservationist uses acid-free materials to gently fold your dress in a way that minimizes wrinkles.

• A lthough it is folded, the materials used to package it keep the dress intact and in its best form.

• T o prevent creasing, it’s recommended to remove the dress from the packaging and lightly shake it out once a year. Might we suggest your anniversary?

• W hen handling your dress, be sure to wash your hands and wear protective white cotton gloves, as the oils from your hands could damage the dress (most preservationists provide these with your returned dress).

YOUR SUIT

By Rae Tutera

When you’re wearing it: • A void putting anything in your pockets unless your pockets were designed and constructed to support your iPhone or wallet.

Wool has a memory and, over time, your jacket and pants will sag from the weight.

• A lways pull up your knees before you sit. It takes the stress off the knees of your pants (and there’s no harm in showing a little sock!).

• A lways sit with your jacket buttons undone to prevent pulling.

When you’re not wearing it: • U se a hanger of correct width. If the hanger is too large, you’ll see the edges of it pressing against the arms of your jacket. If that happens, invest in a smaller hanger; otherwise, it will leave marks on your sleeves. If a hang-

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Once your dress is properly packaged, store it in an inner room within your home that’s free of cold, hot or humid conditions—think under your bed or in a dry closet.

WHEN YOU’RE ON THE HUNT FOR A PRESERVATIONIST, DON’T SKIMP ON YOUR RESEARCH. Read the fine print and ask these five questions. (Note: you want to make sure it’s inspected in-person before being quoted.)

1. W ill they cover the cost of any damage done during the cleaning process?

2. D o they have a warranty?

Are there any conditions that void the warranty, i.e. opening the box?

3. Do they clean the dress or do you need to get that done separately? If so, is it done in-house or by a third-party facility and does the cleaner specialize in wedding gowns?

4. What kind of materials are used to pack the dress?

Are they acid-free?

5. If reimbursement is needed, is it for the entire value of the dress or just preservation costs?

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er is too small, it won’t support the shoulders of your jacket, which will cause drooping.

• H ang your pants on a garment hanger—they have a rod that clicks into place. Pants should be turned upside down, creaseto-crease. Let them fall naturally and don’t button the pants.

• N ever button your jacket when hanging it. It will take shape around the hanger when it should be taking shape around your body, causing it to drape less beautifully on your silhouette.

• O nly dry clean when absolutely necessary. Dry cleaning a suit can actually damage the material, as the chemicals break down the wool fibers. A good rule of thumb is for every eight wears, get your pants dry cleaned, and head to the dry cleaners for every 20 to 25 wears of the jacket.

• W hen traveling with your suit, fold it inside-out to protect the jacket.

YOUR ACCESSORIES

By Shannen Hofheimer

LEATHER • If your leather gets wet, let it air dry at room temperature.

Speed drying can cause the material to crack.

• If your leather gets dirty, use a dry cloth to remove any excess dirt and then dampen the cloth with warm water and wipe again.

• K eep leather stored in an area that allows it to breathe.

SUEDE • T o clean suede, use a rubber eraser to remove dirt and smudges. After, brush lightly (in one direction) with a soft brush.

• S tore suede in a pillowcase or cotton shoe bag away from light and damp conditions.

• I f your suede items get wet, use a clean towel to soak up any excess moisture and allow the suede to dry naturally. Then, restore those raised fibers with a suede brush.

• F or oil-based stains, talcum powder can be rubbed directly on the spot and brushed off after a few hours.

SILK • Y ou don’t want to permanently crease that gorgeous, delicate fabric, do you? Then don’t ever leave your tie knots in!

• I f you need to iron your silk pocket square, set your iron to a low silk setting and iron on the reverse side. Be sure to not iron the hand-rolled edges and, if you use a steamer, be wary of the steamer spitting water, which could cause water spots.

• I f you happen to get a spot of some sort on your tie, a little dab of seltzer will do the trick.

For anything greasy, the same rules apply here as they do to suede: apply talcum powder directly to the spot and then brush off a few hours later.

Brought to you by the experts behind

In our swiftly evolving world of weddings, it's more important than ever to ensure that your business is equality-minded. Whether it's understanding the gender identity/orientation spectrum, knowing how to address sensitive topics with your clients or marketing to LGBTQ+ couples, we’ll educate you on the changing landscape of inclusion.

EMAIL US AT HALLSOFIVYWORKSHOP@GMAIL.COM TO BOOK YOUR IN-DEPTH BUSINESS REVIEW AND CONSULTATION!

plan SUGARCOATED VEGGIES

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MONOGRAM ETIQUETTE

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SINGLE SWEETS

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DESIGNER VS. PLANNER VS. COORDINATOR

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HARVESTED DESSERTS Have your cake (and eat your veggies, too!) with delicious, inventive confections created using vegetables.

Yes, really.

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“I find that most guests really love the chocolate beet cake as an alternative to regular chocolate cake—it adds a lot of extra moisture,” says Alexandria Murray of Toronto’s Finespun Cakes & Pastries. “It also has a hint of earthiness, which brings a new dimension of flavor to a classic chocolate cake.”

Pair It With: Hazelnut, chocolate or coffee buttercream. “Another great filling would be sweetened mascarpone cream with fresh raspberries when they're in season,” adds Murray.

Chef’s Notes: “When using beets in baking, you have to keep in mind that they can overpower other flavors, so choose assertive ones that can stand up to the beets,” says Murray. “Also, beets are much crunchier than carrots, so you must cook them—roast or boil— then grate them so they can blend into a cake seamlessly.”

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXANDRIA MURRAY

BEETS

CARROTS PHOTOGRAPHY BY D’AVELLO PHOTOGRAPHY

“I’m a firm believer in nuts but no raisins in the recipe, and I include pineapple pulp—you don’t notice it at all, but it adds a nice texture to the cake crumb,” says Jennifer Cella Williams, owner of Beverly’s Best Bakery in Southern California.

Pair It With: Carrot cake works well with cream cheese or French buttercream filling.

Chef’s Notes: “We always hand-grate our carrots. Carrots that have been shredded in a food processor tend to be flimsy and watery,” notes Williams.

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SWEET POTATO “This cake can best be compared to a carrot cake. By shredding the sweet potatoes and mixing them right into the batter, they soften as they bake and you might not even guess there is sweet potato in this cake,” says Julianne Bayer of Beyond Frosting.

Pair It With: “I’ve frosted this cake with a cream cheese frosting and drizzled with caramel.”

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIANNE BAYER

Chef’s Notes: Use a cheese grater when shredding the sweet potato.

MEDLEY “We used a vegetable medley of broccolini, carrots and beets.

Using a butter glaze on top is a definite must!” exclaims Nataly Stein of Great Dane Baking Co. in Los Alamitos, Calif.

Pair It With: “We occasionally add a hazelnut truffle, which tends to bring out the flavors of the roasted vegetable,” says Stein.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALY STEIN

Chef’s Notes: “The base of the ‘cake’ is best as a cornbread, though we have used a regular vanilla cake recipe to play with tastebuds. In that case, we use a cream cheese icing and a bit of caramel or blackberry compote to hit the sweet tooth as well as make this into a nice side dish with entrées.”

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Initial Insignia

We know you want to show off that newlywed name, so be sure to read our monogram guide before making your mark.

raditional monogram example for an The modern day monogram is making its stylish stamp on so much more than traditional invitations and wedding china.

Couplescouple are creating theirthe custom logo and using it on a variety of wedding-day details, such opposite-sex married with as the wedding cake, hand-painted aisle runners and favor labels. “Be traditional or be whimsical, just make samesure last name: Katie & Scottrepresents Cohen you as an individual or couple/new family,” notes Katie Cohen, your monogram accurately

owner of Katie Fischer Design in New York City. “And be sure to ask your stationer for a final high-resolution Monogram example for opposite-sex PDF file of your monogram so that you can enjoy an it for years to come and make customized items whenever you wish.” married couple with different last names or same-sex married couple: MONOGRAMS FOR COUPLES …

WITH THE SAME LAST NAME Ashley Cullen The andshared Mark Knoll last name initial is in the center and designed larger, with woman’s first name listed first and the man’s listed last for an K AllisonSCareytheopposite-sex and Mary Kent couple.

For same-sex couples, couples often choose to list the initials in alphabetical order. “Or, I also suggest choosing based on Andrew Callahanwhich andlooksMathew Kanein your design,” says Cohen. best aesthetically

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MONOGRAMS FOR COUPLES …

WITH DIFFERENT LAST NAMES

C K

A two-letter monogram incorporating either both first name initials or both last name initials.

or un-married or un-married or un-married individuals: individuals: individuals: KathrynKathryn Fischer Kathryn Fischer CohenFischer CohenCohen Kyle Franklin Kyle Franklin Kyle Connant Franklin Connant Connant MONOGRAMS FOR INDIVIDUALS

F K F KFFK C C CK CK C C CFKCF C OPTION ONE:

OPTION TWO:

OPTION THREE:

The firstThe letter firstThe ofletter your firstLast last ofletter your name. ofinitial last your Or name. you lastinname. can Or you do Or acan three you do can aarethree do a three name largest center, All letters the same size in order first name to the left and middle of how your name is said: first, letter monogram letter monogram letter thatmonogram incorporates that incorporates that incorporates initials the ofinitials your themiddle initials of your of your name to the rightthe (or maiden or maiden, and last. name initial) first, middle, first, middle, and first,your middle, and lastyour name. andlast your Either name. lastwith name.

Either your with Either lastyour withlast your last WHAT ….

YOUR LAST NAME HAS AN ARTICLE OR LETTER IN FRONT? initialIF largest initial inlargest initial the center. largest in the Or center. in the where center.

Or the where three Or the where letters three theletters three letters “Individualare monograms can feature both capital initials ofin the last name on their own,isname such as is OD, VD and MC,” all the are same all are the size same all in the order size same in of order size how your of order how name of your how is name said. your said. said. explains Cohen. “For three-letter monograms, it depends on whether the name with the article is one or two The shared last name initial is in the center and designed using the first letter of your last name.

words. If it's a name like Van Dusen with a space between the two names, then use the last name initial without the article: D not V. For last names with O', Mc, or Mac within one word, you'd use the first capital letter: O or M.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELANI LUST PHOTO

Modernize It!

“The use of just first initials is more modern as many choose not to change their last name,” says Cohen. “In terms of style, rendering a monogram via modern handwritten calligraphy is a great modern-yet-timeless approach. Another trend is monogram crests that include custom artwork such as a pet, flowers or a drawing of your home or wedding venue in a traditional illustrative style or watercolor art.”

FYI The shared last name monogram should be used only after the ceremony, so you can feature it on your day-of details such as menus and place cards.

“If you're looking to use a couple monogram on your invitations, it's customary to use either a shared initial from both first names or both last names—for example, a couple with the last names Smith and Sullivan can use the S monogram— or create a two letter monogram of both first name initials,” notes Cohen.

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solo sweets With a focus on one specific style of dessert, these pastry chefs prove that less is more.

TREAT HOUSE WHAT IS IT? Crispy treat desserts topped with a variety of confections

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WHERE TO FIND IT: Ships nationwide

we immediately thought to make Rice Krispies treats because it conjured up such wonderful memories from childhood that we wanted to share with our children.”

THE SCOOP: Chris and Jennifer can thank their kids for the inspiration.

“When we had a bake sale with our kids,

FLAVORS WE’RE CRAVING: Dark Chocolate Chili, Caramel Sea Salt, French Toast

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN MONEY & ELIZABETH FAY PHOTOGRAPHY, SUZI JACOBS

PURE FLUFF WHAT IS IT? Cotton candy made onsite with all-natural ingredients customized with creative flavors WHERE TO FIND IT: Based in Charleston, S.C., but can travel

MEGPIES WHAT IS IT? Glazed popped tarts in a flaky crust, stuffed with a flavor-bursting filling WHERE TO FIND IT: Ships nationwide

THE SCOOP: “I was really enamored by the simplicity and ethereal beauty of cotton candy,” says founder Arielle Stratton.

“When I realized that the creative potential was limitless, I had to get on board and make my spin on the classic.”

THE SCOOP: Megpies’ humble start began on Meghan and Paul’s Brooklyn brownstone stoop for morning commuters.

“We made scones, muffins and donuts but, by far, the most popular item were hand pies,” says Meghan. “The demand for these was large enough that we decided to focus solely on tarts.”

FLAVORS WE’RE CRAVING: Rose, Mojito, Chai Tea Latte

FLAVORS WE’RE CRAVING: Chocolate, Blueberry

HANNAH’S BANANAS WHAT IS IT? Gourmet frozen bananas dipped in chocolate and covered in a delicious topping of choice WHERE TO FIND IT: Southern California THE SCOOP: “Not every fruit rhymes with my name!” jokes Hannah, the founder and namesake of Hannah’s Bananas.

“The idea of the company came when I made four chocolate frozen bananas at my parents’ house and a guest said the two words, ‘Hannah’s Bananas.’ We sat around the table enjoying our treats and dreamed up the catering company.”

FLAVORS WE’RE CRAVING: Sweetened Coconut, Crushed Oreos, Diced Peanuts

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FATTY SUNDAYS WHAT IS IT? Chocolate-covered pretzels rolled in toppings WHERE TO FIND IT: Ships nationwide THE SCOOP: Growing up, sisters Ali and Lauren used to make the classic chocolate-covered pretzels with sprinkles. “After many months of tasting and testing, we were inspired to take our

idea of gourmet, fun-flavored chocolate covered pretzels into the world,” says Ali. “My sister and I set out to reinvent and modernize everyone’s favorite sweetand-salty treat with exciting flavors and presentation!”

FLAVORS WE’RE CRAVING: Peanut Butter & Jelly, Peppermint

JARS BY DANI WHAT IS IT? Jars generously layered with cake, mousse and toppings WHERE TO FIND IT: Ships nationwide THE SCOOP: Dani had her ah-ha moment when she came across a mason jar in a craft store and was driven to develop a sweet that looked as good as

it tasted. She experimented with recipes and, encouraged by her nearly overnight popularity on Instagram, she created her signature line of jars.

FLAVORS WE’RE CRAVING: Cookie Dough Dream, All About Oreo, Peanut Butter Nut

Roles Refined Know you need help but not sure which type of talent to hire? We break down the differences between a wedding planner, coordinator and designer to help you navigate your options.

By Brittny Drye

As often as these three talents are seemingly looped in together, what most people don’t realize is that they are three very different job titles. It’s easy to be confused, particularly when there are so many pros in the wedding world who are willing to wear all three hats. (Though you should expect to pay for all three titles.)

So before you start the hunt for that other special someone for your wedding, we break down each particular role so you’ll know exactly what you should be searching for.

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WEDDING PLANNER

WEDDING COORDINATOR

WEDDING DESIGNER

This person is armed with a Rolodex of talented vendors (think florists, DJs, cake designers) and an impeccable ability to stay calm under stressful circumstances. They love logistics and will be your advocate at meetings, help keep your budget on track and do almost anything to make sure your day goes off without a hitch. They’re usually with you from the very beginning of the planning process to the end, and by the time the vows have been exchanged, they’re likely to have become your new lifelong friend.

If you’re the kind of couple who wants to manage all of the details leading up to the day but don’t want to deal with deliveries and setup dayof, then you’ll want to hire a wedding coordinator. Some venues offer a coordinator with their wedding packages to help things run smoothly day-of, such as setting up the reception, ensuring the catering arrives and helping to keep everyone involved on schedule. Keep in mind that rarely does a “day-of” coordinator work just on the actual wedding day. They often need to be involved at least a month beforehand so they can coordinate with your other vendors to ensure a smooth timeline. This is also a much more budget-friendly option than a full-service wedding planner.

When you describe your wedding as rustic, modern or classic, that’s where the designer comes in. They’re the geniuses behind the look and feel of the day and help curate the design details.

Guiding you from the style to the palette to centerpieces, all of the aesthetic elements are handled by the designers, who should have rental and technical connections (such as lighting design and construction) to implement your vision. They’ll turn your Pinterest board into a polished event that represents you as a couple.

HIRE IF YOU NEED: help contracting vendors, basic guidance, budget assistance

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HIRE IF YOU NEED: help coordinating on the day of your wedding, planning on a budget

HIRE IF YOU NEED: inspiration direction, design and décor ideas

look BEARDED BROS

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SKINCARE REGIMENS FOR ALL TYPES

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FACIAL HAIR AFICIONADOS Instagram’s favorite bristly duo, The Gay Beards, shares how a little creativity and two full beards can make social media magic, plus their tips on how they keep their beards fresh between takes. » 34

The two faces who are responsible for viral trends such as the glitter beard and flower beard, Brian Delaurenti and Johnathan Dahl, collectively known as The Gay Beards on the

success. “A friend of ours offered to take photos for us while having flowers in our beards. We posted them, loved how they turned out and, from there, wondered ‘What else could

“WE PUT OUR BEARDS THROUGH A LOT, SO WE DO OUR BEST TO KEEP THEM HAPPY.” social media circuit, know a thing or two about facial hair maintenance. The reallife best friends are based in Portland, Ore., and have been documenting their whiskered works of art since July 2014. “We had both started growing our beards for just about a year,” they explain of their seemingly overnight

than others. “The fruit salad beard [was the most challenging],” laughs Brian. “We used kale and a few different fruits, and getting them to stay was much harder than we anticipated.” But behind the variety of adornments is a serious regimen to keep their facial hair in tiptop shape.

“We put our beards through a lot, so we do our best to keep them happy,” says Johnathan.

“Washing them as often as we would our hair, applying beard oil and balms and brushing with a boar bristle brush.” Brian adds, “Oils and balms are crucial to a happy, healthy and comfortable beard.”

Aspiring to grow your own lush beard? According to Brian and Johnathan, we put in our beards?’ patience is a virtue. “Having That's when it all began!” a beard takes dedication Their experiments became and requires more more elaborate—craft maintenance than anything supplies, holiday ornaments else,” exclaims Brian. “Keep and snacks, to name a few—as their fan-base grew, it growing, Johnathan adds.

“Once you get past the which has hit nearly 240K itchy and awkward-shape followers on Instagram. stages, you’re on your way Of course, some looks have been more successful to a full, luscious beard.”

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CONFESSION: WE LOVE A GOOD BEARD, AND SOME OF OUR FAVORITE INDUSTRY LEADERS HAVE NAILED IT IN THE GROOMING ARENA. WE ASKED THEM TO SHARE THEIR GO-TO PRODUCTS FOR THEIR MANLY MAINTENANCE.

TOM SEBENIUS,

THE ARRANGEMENT FLORAL DESIGN & EVENTS

JOVE MEYER,

JOVE MEYER EVENTS

ANDREW NEESLEY,

MIXTAPE: A COVER BAND FOR HIPSTERS

1. Paddle Brush

3. Organix Coconut Milk Shampoo and Conditioner “Washing and conditioning a beard is a must. I use this organic coconut milk product to keep the beard and surrounding skin moist and soft.”

1. Kiehl’s Amino Acid Conditioner 2. Brooklyn Grooming Beard Oils “My favorite is Red Hook because of the spicy, cardamom scent.”

3. Trader Joe’s Vitamin E Oil “When I’m on a budget, this is what I buy. It works really well and has a lot of the same oils of more expensive options but a fraction of the price.”

4. Wahl Trimmer

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4. Dr. Bronner’s Lemongrass Lime Organic Shaving Soap

1. JĀSÖN shampoo 2. Proraso Hot Oil Beard Treatment “The hot oil is a special treatment I use sparingly; it feels like cool aftershave, from those days when you shaved your beard and were less manly.”

3. Proraso Beard Oil 4. Fellow Barber “Go to their SoHo location and have Mike Haar trim your beard. Tell him I sent you. No joke—I won't let any other barber even look at my beard.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMBER GRESS; A COUPLE OF CAMERAS

2. Burroughs Beard Oil “There is nothing like rubbing your beard with this amazing oil after a hot shower! It keeps the beard fresh and the skin happy, not to mention it smells amazing!”

Wedding-Worthy Recipes (FOR YOUR SKIN!) Add these steps to your morning and nightly routines for pictureperfect skin, just in time for those closeups. By Meghan Kennedy

RECIPE

OILY SKIN INGREDIENTS

Boscia Detoxifying Black Cleanser Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Toner Neutrogena Deep Clean Long Last Shine Control Scrub The Body Shop Tea Tree Face Mask

RECIPE

MORNING STEP 1: Lather up with Boscia’s charcoal-based cleanser. Don’t shy away from putting charcoal on your face—it draws out impurities, leaving you with a fresh glow. STEP 2: Take a dime-sized dollop of Clinique’s cult fave moisturizer and apply all over face and décolletage.

STEP 3: Pour a splash of Kiehl’s oil-free toner and dab on your T-zone and other oil-ridden areas.

NIGHT STEP 1: Dot Neutrogena’s scrub on problem areas, massage into skin and rinse. The gentle formula, combined with oil-combative beads, is perfect before you hit the sheets where oil and dirt can accumulate over time. STEP 2: Smooth on The Body Shop’s tea tree oil mask. Tea tree oil, a known astringent, is key to keeping your skin clean and fresh until the morning.

NORMAL SKIN INGREDIENTS

Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser Philosophy Miracle Worker Miraculous Anti-Aging Moisturizer Simple Soothing Toner Clarins One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Facial Cleanser Jurlique Nutri-Define Rejuvenating Overnight Cream

MORNING STEP 1: Splash on one to two pumps

of Neutrogena’s cleanser to rid yourself of any impurities. STEP 2: Using your fingertips, spread Philosophy’s anti-aging moisturizer across your cheeks, forehead and neck. STEP 3: Blot with a bit of Simple’s facial toner. Perfect for normal skin, it keeps your pH balance steady while prepping you for the day ahead!

NIGHT STEP 1: Dot Clarins’ gentle exfoliating cleanser all over your face, blend and scrub. Wash away with lukewarm water. STEP 2: Massage Jurlique’s overnight cream into skin—don’t rinse off!

Head to bed and catch those Zzzs!

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RECIPE

DRY SKIN INGREDIENTS

Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil Clarins Toning Lotion Estée Lauder Hydrationist Maximum Moisture Creme NARS Double Refining Exfoliator Boots No7 Beautiful Skin Hydration Mask

RECIPE

Bobbi Brown’s cleansing oil. Instead of a harsh cleanser, the oil removes dirt while maintaining moisture. STEP 2: Massage a small amount (think dime-sized) of Clarins’ toning lotion onto face. Some toners strip oil, but mixing it with lotion ensures high-impact dewy skin. STEP 3: Follow up with a few dabs of Estée Lauder’s Hydrationist Creme. Dryskin beauties swear by it. The cream is thick enough to apply under makeup while not feeling too heavy.

NIGHT STEP 1: With a gentle hand, dab NARS’ exfoliator onto face and scrub gently into skin.

Use a damp washcloth to remove. STEP 2: Apply Boots No7 hydration mask to skin. Let sit for a few minutes, then remove.

SENSITIVE SKIN INGREDIENTS

Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleanser Kiehl’s Cucumber Herbal Alcohol-Free Toner LRP Anthelios SX Daily Moisturizer Fresh Sugar Face Polish Pond’s Cold Cream Cleanser

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MORNING STEP 1: Using a cotton ball, apply

MORNING STEP 1: Use an all-natural cleanser

like Burt’s Bees in the morning before your makeup routine. Pour a dime-sized dollop into hand, massage into skin and remove with warm water.

STEP 2: Kiehl’s alcohol-free cucumber toner refreshes the senses and refrains from any damage to skin. Splash a small amount on a cotton ball and apply all over face. STEP 3: LRP Anthelios SX is a godsend for those who need a gentle moisturizer.

Apply a liberal amount to face and décolletage and start your day!

NIGHT STEP 1: No need to fear an exfoliator when you’ve got Fresh’s face polish in your beauty arsenal! Use a pea-sized amount—we promise, a little goes a long way—and massage into wet skin. STEP 2: Rinse with warm water. Slather on Pond’s cold cream and hit the sack! Cold cream keeps dirt at bay while ensuring maximum moisture and comfort.

THE BIG DAY, REDESIGNED At Tinsel & Twine, we specialize in custom dÊcor and floral arrangements, designing and planning weddings that are timeless and beautiful, so you can simply enjoy the moment. Schedule a free consultation. We’ll bring the bubbly.

T I N S E LT W I N E .CO M

nyc|makeup|hair www.sb-beauty.com sharon@sb-beauty.com 646.263.4055 W E D D I N G S @ T I N S E LT W I N E . C O M

9 1 7. 2 0 8 . 2 5 3 6

inspire CHRIS + DANIEL

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ELLEN + KATE

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BRITTNY + ERIC

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OUT EAST I DO s The grooms turned a friend’s Hamptons home into an elegant afternoon affair to celebrate their love.

By Brittny Drye Photography by Mikkel Paige

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Clad in a handsome navy Burberry blazer, Chris drove in his family’s heirloom vintage Ford car to meet his groom, who was already on location putting the finishing touches on his similar style.

After an emotional first look, the grooms walked outside of the Hamptons home to their 140 guests looking on in the backyard, enamored by the love they were about to witness on that late summer Sunday afternoon. “We wanted an intimate wedding and to get married in the Hamptons because we feel truly relaxed when we are out there,” says Daniel of their venue choice. “Our dear friends offered us their home and we are grateful to this day for their kindness; it was a dream location.”

Daniel and Chris promised their lives to each other in a ceremony that they had written themselves. “It really felt like us and not like we were following a script,” adds Chris.

Two readings were done by friends to add even more of a personal touch, and they exchanged Tiffany & Co. rings, engraved with their wedding date.

The celebration commenced with cocktail hour poolside and dinner and dancing underneath a signature Sperry tent. The elegant but laidback Hamptons weekend afternoon vibe was illustrated with a creamy TOP The grooms exchanged Tiffany & Co. gold rings engraved with their wedding date. BOTTOM Their scripted invitations from Minted perfectly captured the classy yet casual atmosphere.

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palette, potted plant-topped tables and a menu of passed hors d’oeuvres and brunch favorites. “We wanted to keep things really simple. The setting was so beautiful that we wanted to let that be the real décor,” says Daniel.

The newlyweds swayed to “Time After Time” for their first dance, performed by their friends. “Our friend Lindsay has a beautiful singing voice, and Josh is a talented guitarist,” Chris exclaims. “It was really special to have our friends be the ones to perform while we danced.”

Afterward, the DJ kept the dance floor packed with ‘80s tunes.

As the wedding began to come to a close and only a special few guests remained, they all changed into bathing suits and jumped into the pool. “We all watched the sunset with a few glasses of rosé in the water,” Daniel reminisces. “It was a perfect way to end the party.”

TEAM OF TALENTS Photography: Mikkel Paige DJ: Karin Ward Invitations: Minted Catering & Cake: Sydney’s “Taylor” Made Cuisine Attire: Burberry jackets, Theory pants, Salvatore Ferragamo shoes Rings: Tiffany & Co. LEFT Suede Salvatore Ferragamo shoes completed the grooms’ preppy-chic outfits. // Chris and his father drove to the venue in their family’s vintage Ford.

PAGE 44 Daniel created their reception’s potted floral centerpieces. // Daniel’s niece adorably played the role of flower girl. // Guests tossed rose petals as the grooms sealed the deal with a kiss. // Brunch cocktails paired nicely with the poached salmon and French toast menu.

“Since it was Sunday and Chris loves breakfast food, we created a brunch menu,” notes Daniel.

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A CULTIVATED COMMITMENT Kate and Ellen utilized their creative talents to curate their beautiful elopement deep in the forest, followed by an intimate cabin gathering.

By Brittny Drye Photography by Cassandra Zetta

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The morning of their wedding day, Kate and Ellen took a hike together through the woods in Indiana, where they were spending the weekend with friends.

The trees’ bare branches allowed the sun to peek through, casting a glow on the newly fallen November snow mixed with lingering autumn leaves on the forest ground. It was then that they selected their ceremony spot, a nod to where Kate had proposed a year prior.

The creative couple (they’re the artists/makers/stylists behind the beautiful lifestyle brand Birch & Pine) had maintained their long-distance relationship with a “keep driving” mentality, a tagline of sorts dubbed by Ellen’s dad as encouragement through the challenging times. “It was incredibly difficult to be so far apart and so in love,” notes Kate, who had sketched an abstract print of the words and framed as a gift to her beloved. “It’s a sweet reminder that we’d keep going forward, no matter how hard it was to be apart.” Eventually, their lives allowed them to become one family under one roof, and Ellen became a second mother to their

daughter, Adelaide.

For their wedding weekend, it was just the family trio, plus two of their dearest friends to wed them and their talented photographer Cassandra Zetta to document it. “The simplicity of it all … it was exactly as we imagined it to be,” says Ellen.

A narrow road led to the secluded cabin where the couple got ready together. A perfect, dusty light streamed through the windows as Ellen pulled on vintage shoes and a navy sweater, and Kate dressed herself in a simple ivory lace-and-chiffon dress, a pair of moccasins and Kiki Koyote cuffs.

Cloaked with a vintage shawl made in Nepal and carrying a bouquet of wild greens and eucalyptus, Kate walked hand-in-hand with her soonto-be wife through the woods, where their minister, his wife and the brides’ daughter were waiting for them.

Their friend led them through heartfelt vows, stopping only to wipe happy

TOP Kate chose a simple vintage dress with lace detailing while Ellen wore a deep navy sweater.

BOTTOM An intimate moment is captured between the brides getting ready together.

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tears from each other’s eyes. With their daughter in Ellen’s arms, they officially, and legally, became a family.

“At the time, we couldn’t get married in our home state, but we could get legally married in Indiana, so it all worked out,” says Kate.

They sealed their commitment with a kiss and a hug that was larger than life, filling the forest

“

It was a beautiful, love-filled day, and every single bit of it was worth remembering keenly.”

with their love. The group then retreated back to the cabin where the brides had prepared a beautifully styled dinner for their intimate gathering, using décor harvested from the property (both inside and out) such as pine cones, candles, fruit, even a deer antler. As the sun dipped below the rolling hills, the celebratory company feasted on mushroom risotto, crusty bread displayed on a bread board Ellen made, salad 48

and cheeses, as the white wine flowed. Afterward, the newlyweds cut into the tiny vanilla-and-cardamom cake that they baked themselves and toasted with mapleinfused whiskey. “It was a beautiful, love-filled day, and every single bit of it was worth remembering keenly,” says Kate.

And the couple still maintains that “keep driving” philosophy. “We have been married for more than a year now and recently embarked

on the journey of a lifetime— we are living on the road in the vintage Airstream we renovated together, traveling across the United States and Canada,” says Ellen. “The ‘Keep Driving’ print is one of the few things we kept when downsizing to live on the road … and it’s truly fitting to have. We prop it up wherever we stop, because now we’re not driving to one another, we’re driving alongside one another and living our dream.”

LEFT Kate carried a wildly beautiful bouquet of eucalyptus. // Kate and Ellen were best friends in college and, after reconnecting years later, a love between them blossomed. // A beautiful family photo with their daughter Adelaide after Kate and Ellen exchanged vows. RIGHT Their friend led them through their heartfelt vows. // The couple picked the spot they would exchange vows the morning of their wedding. // They toasted with Cabin Fever, an artisanal, maple-infused whiskey. // They cut into a vanilla-and-cardamom cake which they made themselves.

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LOVE IS IN THE DETAILS This magazine’s very own founder, Brittny Drye, weds her longtime love Eric in a laid-back affair infused with personal details, set in the rolling foothills of the New York Catskills.

By Kate Abney Photography by Allan Zepeda

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When it came time to plan the biggest day of their lives, Love Inc.’s editor-in-chief, Brittny, tapped into her Rolodex of industry friends to produce an event that was a reflection of her and her fiancé’s fiveyear relationship deciphered in unique, trendsetting details.

Floral designer Sachi Selvagn surprised the bride with an illustration on her bouquet’s blue velvet ribbon that portrayed the couple’s beloved feline, Scout. // As a nod to the bride’s magazine career, the menu was uniquely formatted in photo caption-style. // Eric and Brittny snuck away during the reception to take advantage of the stunning landscape at golden hour.

THE INSPIRATION The couple pulled elements from their relationship, such as their beloved cat Scout, Eric’s family’s native Guatemala, their weekends spent apple-picking and Brittny’s Southern roots to help them tell their love story in the design. “I was also very much inspired by texture, from the industrial concrete blocks we used in the décor to the chili peppers, figs and cotton that were paired with more popular blooms in the floral design,” notes Brittny.

“We wanted it to feel a bit overgrown, as if you’d just stumbled upon this scene in the middle of the woods.”

But at the same time, she needed something that illustrated the height of Southern hospitality.

Guests experienced a warm welcome at the rehearsal dinner, where they sipped sangria on the luminaradotted lawn, played icebreaker games of cornhole (University of Tennesseethemed, for the bride’s alma mater) and savored bonfireroasted fare prepared before a fleet of Adirondack chairs. As evening’s chill crept into the air, guests kept cozy in blankets handknit by the groom’s mom while toasting signature s’mores—vanilla bean- and sangria-flavored, of course!

THE VENUE An affectionate nod to Brittny’s agrarian Tennessee upbringing, The Kaaterskill in Catskill, N.Y., is as idyllic a locale as any in the South: a plot of land teeming with livestock such as llamas, goats, donkeys, horses and pigs. And since it boasts multiple event sites (a barn, inn, pond house and great 51

lawn), the foothill property was ideal for bringing the couple’s variegated vision to life.

Come September, the foliage was just beginning to explode with fall color; all the better to enhance the couple’s chosen palette of gold, light coral, pale turquoise and deep papaya (a hue intuitively selected well before Pantone named a similar tone its 2015 Color of the Year).

THE FASHION Brittny spied the dress of her dreams at the April 2015 Bridal Market and worked closely with designer Sam Beasley of Samuelle Couture to customize it, adding lace sleeves and layers of multicolored tulle for a subtly iridescent effect. Contributing jewelry to the radiant ensemble were the Art Decoinspired engagement ring Eric commissioned from Greenwich Jewelers in the city, vintage cut-crystal earrings gifted by Brittny’s maid of honor and her maternal grandmother’s wedding band strung on a gold chain around her neck.

The bride’s half-up, half52

down, slightly boho hairstyle was practical enough to stay put all night but also devastatingly pretty—very “Guinevere in the woods.”

And all too appropriate, considering the location of the couple’s “first look.”

“I remember walking into this secluded area [to meet him], and my heart was beating out of my chest,” Brittny says, recounting how the magnitude of the day finally set in following months of planning. She found her handsome groom beaming with joy, looking more dashing than ever in a custom vest-and-slacks combo from Robbie & Co.—complete with a prepschool-blue blazer and tailored gingham shirt, plus accessories (a knit tie, paisley pocket square and simple cuff links) from West Village boutique J. Mueser.

“My heart felt like it was melting,” Eric recalls. “I remember the sun shining through the leaves, then I saw her walking up to me and I thought, ‘We’re all done up, we’re ready to go, and the two of us are walking down this trail together.’”

THE CEREMONY

Instead of matching, Brittny picked a color from her palette for each bridesmaid and let them choose any dress they desired in their designated hue. // The newlyweds danced to “Only You” by Joshua Radin for their first dance. // extural flora such as cotton pods, eucalyptus, snow berries, succulents and chili peppers were used in the boutonnieres.

Guests were greeted with a seltzer station (complete with vintage seltzer bottles and fresh fruit) and were encouraged to sign the couple’s globe guestbook, which is now proudly displayed in their living room. Rows of wooden church pews, decorated with a melange of colorful toss pillows and climbing vines, flanked the aisle that was layered with Victorian rugs.

An altar covered in greenery with an asymmetrical bloom design made up of dahlias, andromeda and garden roses set the scene where Brittny and Eric would exchange their vows.

“The smiling faces, our wedding party … here were people we’ve known the longest and love the most, sitting right there,” Eric remembers. “And we couldn’t stop grinning earto-ear.”

Bruce Springsteen’s “Secret Garden” played on a string quartet as his bride proceeded down the aisle, reflecting a musical affinity she shares with her mother and co-officiant Caleb, who teamed up with Eric’s sister for the

day’s pronouncements. “I will never forget how I felt coming down the aisle,” explains Brittny. “An intense wave of excitement and happy nerves rushed over me as my parents took my arms and tears of joy streamed down my cheeks.

I was very aware of how significant this moment was in my life, and it felt as if my body literally couldn’t handle the emotion I was feeling.

All I could do was lock eyes with my love and take one step at a time.”

Following a few charming anecdotes, Brittny’s sister, Allyson, did a reading from June’s Supreme Court marriage equality ruling.

“Equality is obviously something that is important to us, seeing as how it inspired me to start Love Inc.,” Brittny says, “and to be able to have that ruling spoken at my own wedding and knowing that everyone now has the right to marry … it was incredibly emotional.”

The couple then recited self-written vows, with Brittny speaking a portion of hers in Spanish to honor her groom, a native New Yorker of half-Guatemalan

heritage. Though the words were written phonetically on flash cards to keep her pronunciation on track, “I butchered them,” confesses the blushing bride. But for his part, Eric didn’t seem to notice. “I looked at her and thought, ‘I know I’m not supposed to, but I have to kiss you right now.’”

Regaining composure after their sweet smooch, the lovebirds exchanged a few traditional passages before making their victory march through a shower of fragrant lavender.

THE PARTY The postceremony celebration was actually a four-part affair, composed of a cocktail hour, formal dinner, rollicking ’50s-themed afterparty and a late-night nosh fest for the most devoted revelers. The whole shebang began with a gleeful cocktail hour in and around the pond house, where the rustic-industrial décor included hightop beer-garden tables with cinderblock centerpieces, signature cocktails (an aperol spritz for her, a honey-applebourbon libation for him) and a creative crostini station.

Between bites of salty pork 53

CLOCKWISE The groomsmen paired gingham-patterned J.Crew shirts with custom vests. // The mother-of-the-bride gifted Brittny with her mother’s wedding band, which she wore as a necklace. // Guests sat in wooden church pews for the ceremony. // Seltzer with fresh fruit kept guests cool during the late summer ceremony.

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belly and sweet watermelon skewers, short-rib sliders with beer shooters, and chicken and waffles, partygoers partook of artisanal moonshines set atop—what else?—an antique tub overflowing with flowers.

But they ensured the décor was as sentimental as it was stylish, with family wedding portraits from decades past displayed on a concrete block installation overgrown with ivy.

The couple DIY’d gold cat figurines for escort card holders to represent their cat, Scout. // Family wedding photos were displayed on a concrete installation during cocktail hour. // The bride walked down a rug-covered aisle to a string quartet rendition of a favorite Springsteen song.

Even the couple’s dotedupon Maine Coon mix, Scout, was featured prominently in the custom motif created by Katie Fischer Design that was seen throughout their stationery and details. Even cuter?

Come dinnertime, guests were invited to “Scout Out” their seats via calligraphed escort cards held aloft by tiny gilded feline figurines.

With lavender-spiked flutes of Prosecco in tow, they made their way to the zinc-topped tables, where stunning place settings composed of slate chargers, golden flatware, navy linens and vintage colored glasses.

“I thought she was spoton with all of the details,”

says Eric, whose schooldays motivational phrase, “Yeah Knight!” was scrawled in beautiful calligraphy letters above the host table, hanging from rafters packed with unruly florals, wagon wheels and crystal chandeliers.

“It just hit me that marriage was the ultimate ‘Yeah Knight!’ moment,” Brittny explains. “And, you’re a Knight yourself now,” Eric adds with a nudge.

Also on site was a stylish donation station dedicated to educating their guests about Pencils of Promise, a charity that Eric and Brittny hold dear to their hearts. Donations were made on guests’ behalf in lieu of traditional favors, and a basket full of pencils etched with silly and snarky sayings (naturally) served as a symbolic token.

Lovesick Inc. served as the weekend’s mix-masters and encouraged guests to get their groove on between courses of lobster ravioli with a brown butter-sage sauce, gnocchi with mushroom ragout and herbed porchetta carved tableside. The epic meal ended with limoncello, 55

CLOCKWISE An artisanal moonshine tasting provided guests with a taste of the bride’s Southern roots. // Shortrib sliders with shots of beer were offered during cocktail hour. // Wedding Paper Divas created custom coasters using the couple’s signature motif. // A half-naked cake featured blush spackled icing with gold leaf accents and sugar pomegranates, artichokes and berries.

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espresso gelato, a dessert station with many sweets (including cookies made from Brittny’s grandmother’s recipes) and a half-naked cake featuring tiers of lemon with strawberry-basil icing, red velvet with cream cheese filling and pumpkin with ginger filling.

which meant the couple’s creative “hangover kits” (included inside guests’ hotel-room gift boxes) came in handy the next morning. And the Guatemalan-menu, DIY Bloody Mary post-wedding brunch didn’t hurt.

After bidding their guests “We really made an effort to adieu with plenty of kisses step back every so often and and hugs, the Knights were blessed to decompress at just take it all in—seeing our the inn for one more day, loved ones get blown away eating wedding cake in by the menu, gushing over bed and reflecting on the the details and getting silly on the dance floor made the love between the two of 18 months of planning totally them. “What I particularly love is that so many of our worth it,” says Brittny. wedding day details now But it was the afterparty that, extend into our everyday well, really took the cake. lives: a rug we walked on Outside on the lawn, a retro down the aisle now lies pop-up diner appeared like at the foot of our bed, a something out of a dream, globe filled with guests’ complete with a black-andwell wishes is displayed white checkerboard floor, in our living room, the neon diner signs, retro diner custom motif will be used hats, a makeshift grill counter as wallpaper in a future manned by short-order nursery,” says Brittny. “I love cooks and ticket carousels that I get to be reminded of for orders of loaded grilled the greatest day of my life cheeses, cheese fries, tater on a daily basis.” tots, burgers and boozy milkshakes.

Once everyone piled back into the inn’s billiards room, late-night mayhem continued well into the wee hours,

TEAM OF TALENTS Photography: Allan Zepeda Photography Venue: The Kaaterskill Accommodation Planning: TheyCay Planning: Roey Mizrahi Events Event design & florals: Tinsel & Twine Personal florals: Sachi Rose Florals & Design Stationery: Katie Fischer Design DJ & videography: Lovesick Inc. Catering: Wandering Dago Wedding cake: Lael Cakes Makeup: SB Beauty Hair: Styles on B Prop rentals: Octavia & Brown Day-of custom details: Wedding Paper Divas Rentals: New England Country Rentals, Events Unlimited String quartet: Catskill Quartet Dress: Samuelle Couture Shoes: Modcloth and Cole Haan Bride’s wedding band: Susie Saltzman Jewelry Engagement ring and groom’s wedding band: Greenwich Jewelers Suit: Robbie & Co. Suit accessories: J. Mueser Favors: Earmark Social Goods Seltzer bottles: Brooklyn Seltzer Boys Welcome dinner marshmallows: Little Boo Boo Bakery Brunch catering: Comparti Diner flooring: Rhinebeck Rentals

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CLOCKWISE Guests tossed lavender as the newlyweds exited the ceremony. // Custom wooden signage of the groom’s childhood phrase “Yeah Knight” was displayed over the head table. // Colored glassware paired nicely with the zinc tabletop, gold flatware and slate place settings. // Eric and Brittny had a romantic first look in the forest.

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CLOCKWISE Katie Fisher Design created a custom motif for the couple, which was seen on the stationery suite and throughout the day-of details. // The bride’s wedding ring was a thin rose gold band from Susie Saltzman Jewelry and both her engagement ring and the groom’s wedding band were from Greenwich Jewelers in New York City. // The design team constructed a pop-up 1950s diner for the after-party. // Brittny wore a custom Samuelle Couture gown.

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photo credit : nicole taylor photography

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destination HONEYMOONS FIT FOR A FOODIE

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HIT THE ROAD, JACK

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Feasting for the FIVE SENSES

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Popular resorts are jumping in on the interactive culinary experience trend, providing honeymooning couples with multi-sensory dining options.

By Brittny Drye

Resorts are bringing the foodie experience to a firsthand level, tantalizing more than just tastebuds and inviting guests into the chefs’ kitchens where they witness their meal being prepared, teaching them how to forage ingredients in the woods and guiding them through the local market to select their own vegetables.

“Today, travelers are looking to be ‘wowed’ at every turn during their vacations,” says Jeroen J. Hanlo, vice president of food and beverage operations for Karisma Hotels & Resorts.

“They want more than simply a meal or vacation; rather, they are seeking memorable experiences.” At Karisma’s El Dorado Royale property in Cancun, Mexico, guests

are immersed in a culinary theatrical experience, dubbed the Fuentes Culinary Theatre, where chefs host a beautifully choreographed, multi-course cooking performance. As guests dine, they’re entertained with step-by-step, live-action directions (plus wine pairings!), broadcasted on cinema-size screens under the 90-foothigh thatched roof. “It provides couples the opportunity to be educated on the ingredients used and the preparations that go into each dish so they will truly appreciate the evening together.”

At Clifton Inn, an awardwinning Relais & Châteaux property in Virginia, it’s the raw ingredients that entice guests.

From fishing at the private, fully stocked lake to foraging for herbs, mushrooms and berries, Clifton Inn’s Feast and Forest Package ($1,500) also includes hands-on cooking classes and culinary tips for sharpening knives and fresh-fish cleaning/ preparation during their inclusive two-night stay. “We wanted to create an opportunity to involve our guests in this unique program, experience a great meal or two and take home some knowledge on how to locally source and grow one’s own food,” says Clifton owner Mitch Willey.

And the trend has reached as far as Thailand, where, at the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, chefs guide you through the bustling local market, examining fresh, indigenous ingredients to purchase and use in a hands-on lesson later at the resort’s cooking school.

Following in the footsteps of standalone restaurants, providing couples with these multi-sensory experiences sets a scene for memory-making … and particularly interesting social media opps. With millions of newlyweds sharing their honeymoon on Instagram (more than 3.5 million photos were tagged with #honeymoon at the time of publication), travel photos of unique fare are taking up as much space as, say, beautiful landscapes and selfies.

Bridging the gap between adventure and food travel— which once felt like two very different honeymoon itineraries—couples are getting the best of both worlds, and perhaps even bringing home a newly learned recipe as a souvenir.

LEFT Chefs and sommeliers entertain and educate guests on menu and wine pairings at the El Dorado Royale Resort in Mexico.

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HIGHWAY TO HEAVEN DESTINATION: HONEYMOON BLISS For adventure-seeking newlyweds, driving along the world’s most romantic routes can be an exciting alternative and allow you to explore off-the-beaten path. We got the scoop on road-trip planning (plus five incredible itineraries!) from Susan Moynihan, founder of The Honeymoonist, a boutique travel company specializing in bespoke experiences

WHAT KIND OF VEHICLE WOULD YOU RECOMMEND FOR A HONEYMOON ROAD TRIP? This is a honeymoon, so upgrade!

I love a convertible in warm-weather spots like Hawaii or the Keys. If you're going to a rugged spot, such as southern Utah or Montana, get something with 4WD so you can off-road and explore. Or bring your house with you and get a cute Airstream or RV. They're more work than a car, but you aren't tied to hotel reservations, just campsites.

WHAT WOULD BE SOME ESSENTIALS THAT YOU WOULD RECOMMEND PACKING FOR A ROAD TRIP? It's easy to think, "We have a car, we can take along everything and then some!" but you still want to travel light, as you'll be checking in and out of hotels more than you would with a traditional honeymoon. Great road tunes are also a must, either with a portable satellite radio or stereo hook-up for your phone.

I also love a portable WiFi hotspot for international travel so you can WhatsApp and Instagram from the road without racking up roaming fees.

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WHAT IS YOUR EXPERT ADVICE ON MAPPING OUT YOUR ROAD TRIP ITINERARY? Pick the main sites and towns that you want to see first, and then figure out the best way to do it. In general, roundtrip car rentals are less expensive, so that's ideal. But it might be worth the expense to pick up your car in one place and drop it off at the end, especially if it saves you a lot of time. I also recommend not picking up your car until you are ready to leave the city you’re visiting. You don't want to navigate traffic, especially in congested cities like Rome, and there's no point in paying for expensive overnight parking if you don't have to.

WHICH IS MORE IMPORTANT—HAVING A STRUCTURED ITINERARY OR JUST SEEING WHERE THE ROAD TAKES YOU (LITERALLY!)? You still need an itinerary—as with any trip, you have a set amount of time to spend traveling, and you want to make sure that you see the things that matter most to you both, and have time to sleep in or linger over long lunches if so desired. Pacing is key with a honeymoon; you're coming off of the adrenaline rush of your wedding so you’ll want to take on the world, but also slow down and unwind as the wedding stress falls away and you realize, “Yes, we did it!”

HIT THE ROAD! FIVE HONEYMOONWORTHY ROUTES CALIFORNIA’S PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY The stretch from San Francisco to San Diego is full of epic views and amazing hotels, such as Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur. Bring along your hiking shoes and your camera; you could make an entire trip out of hiking to lookout points.

WHAT ARE SOME MISCONCEPTIONS PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT ROAD TRIPS? A common misconception is that they are budget-friendly.

Driving yourself is less expensive than having a car and driver, obviously, but between mileage and car rental, it might not save much off of airfare or train cost, and can even be more expensive. You can save by staying at roadside motels, but on your honeymoon, your hotel should be special, even if you're road-tripping. To me, the beauty of a road trip lies in getting off the beaten path and exploring places at your own pace that are not linked by plane or train. If you save money as well, that's a benefit, but it shouldn't be the main goal.

ROAD TRIPS HAVE A “ROUGHING IT” REPUTATION—WHAT ARE SOME WAYS TO MAKE IT FEEL MORE LUXURIOUS WHILE STILL RETAINING THE ADVENTURE ASPECT? Remember, this is a honeymoon. So even if you're road-tripping, it's a special kind of trip and needs to be treated that way. Upgrade the car, book gorgeous inns or hotels along the way and don't plan to cover too many miles in a day; you want to build in time to pull off the road and explore, and if you decide to linger in one town for an extra night, you don't want it to be brutal to make up those extra miles the next day.

NEW ZEALAND There's a lot of ground to cover in New Zealand, and the great roads and English language make it easy to navigate on your own. Do the adventure capital of Queenstown and dramatic Milford Sound in South Island, and then head to North Island for wine country and the artsy capital of Auckland.

TUSCANY, ITALY Start off with a few days in Florence, then pick up a car at the airport and wander through Tuscany on your own, exploring towns like Lucca and Siena.

Wine tasting is huge here, but in that case, hire a driver for the day so you can imbibe without worry.

THE FLORIDA KEYS You can drive the Keys from Miami to Key West in a few hours, but you'll miss out on a lot if you rush. Instead, start off in Miami and do overnights in Islamorada or at private-island Little Palm Island before ending up in Key West.

RURAL FRANCE You can't go wrong with a road trip anywhere in France, but I especially love Provence, home to amazing wineries and historic chateau-style inns where the food is as amazing as the setting. You can fly into Marseilles, spend time by the sea and then work your way north and continue on to Paris. Magnifique!

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resources YOUR GUIDE TO EQUALITY-MINDED VENDORS

AMY NICHOLS SPECIAL EVENTS: Amy Nichols Special Events is a fullservice event and wedding planning company based in San Francisco.

Before opening the doors of Amy Nichols Special Events in 2005, Amy began her career in the financial services industry in New York City.

She quickly turned in numbers for details and realized that her true calling was the event industry. » Based in San Francisco, info@amynichols.com THE ARRANGEMENT: Tom and Nicole are a powerhouse floral team based in Brooklyn. Their style is a delicate mix of modern and romance, which leads to beautifully sophisticated affairs with a tailored and chic touch. They love the challenge of creating floral decor that speaks to the aesthetic, personality or theme of each couple. » Based in New York City, 646-770-3766 COLOR POP EVENTS: Color Pop Events is a New York City-based event planning company specializing in vibrant, charming and bold events for a wide variety of clients. At the end of the day, Color Pop Events is here to make you happy and your event POP! » Based in New York City, 706-461-5200 CURTAIN UP EVENTS: Curtain Up Events is the brainchild of Danielle Bobish, who discovered that her own professional theater background was the perfect training ground for planning large affairs. Now, Danielle helps her clients put on dramatic, unforgettable events—without all the drama. » Based in New York City DASH ENTERTAINMENT: Dash Entertainment is a boutique DJ, AV production and entertainment booking company. We create

whole experiences—forging musical elements with well-crafted sound design, thoughtfully orchestrated lighting design and fantastic live entertainment. We’ve launched thousands of events and created crazy-happy memories for clients across the country. We hope you’ll soon be one of them. » Based in Los Angeles and New York City, 213-924-3280

DEE KAY EVENTS: Dee Kay Events is a boutique wedding and event planning firm that lives and breathes bespoke wedding details with panache for flawless logistics. Design, coordination and logistics is what we do, but what we create is a succinct harmony between them all. So, come and celebrate with us, beautiful. It would be unjust any other way. Fête for us all! » Based in New York, New Jersey and California, 732-490-1780 GREENWICH JEWELERS: Greenwich Jewelers is a downtown New York City jewelry boutique with collections from more than 40 independent fine, fashion and bridal jewelry designers. Our on-site master jeweler offers complete repair, restoration and custom design services. » Located in New York City, 212-964-7592 JOSE ROLON EVENTS: A nuptial maestro, José specializes in bringing comfort to a process famously filled with tough decisions. With his chill vibe and generous command, he leaves his ego out and gets the job done. Every José Rolón event is a seamless wonder. Parents adore him, vendors respect him and brides and grooms bestow their trust. » Based in New York City, 917-514-4106 KATIE FISCHER DESIGN: We’re a boutique design studio with a love of

all things paper, bespoke invitations and day-of stationery. Katie and her super-talented team are dedicated to innovative timeless designs, high craftsmanship and a graceful experience for our clients. » Based in New York City, 212-390-8385

LAUREN+VANESSA: Whether you desire red carpet-worthy hair and makeup or prefer to stay natural with just enough to tackle the wedding day photo closeups, LAUREN+VANESSA have mastered the art of making you the best YOU. Their services include blow-dry packages, grooming, hair extensions, spray tans, false lash application and more. » Based in New York City, 646-673-4483 LOVE LETTERS STUDIO: At Love Letters Studio we approach each project from scratch to ensure your invitation suite fulfills your vision and is 100 percent one-of-a-kind. Love Letters Studio is an artist-based business that takes pride in creating unique, custom paper goods that will wow your guests while being totally “you.” » Based in New York and New Jersey, 201-526-4769 MADRANAS: Madranas is a full-service invitation and event production studio based in Detroit.

They pride themselves on being artists who like to get their hands dirty. All of their work is custom design, hand-drawn and handmade in-house, from hand-painted pillows to screen-printed business cards and letterpressed invites. » Based in Detroit, 313-365-0647 MIKKEL PAIGE PHOTOGRAPHY: Colorful and crisp imagery truly reflects this photographer’s vivacious and outgoing personality that couples immediately find comfort in.

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She is an avid traveler who adores capturing love and laughter at local and destination weddings. » Based in New York City, 646-820-6645

MIXTAPE: A COVER BAND FOR HIPSTERS: Actively not your parents’ wedding band, MIXTAPE is a disco-free band whose infinite repertoire spans indie rock, classic rock, ‘80s, ‘90s and even some choice pop. Designed to be like a live performance of your favorite mixtape, MIXTAPE: a cover band for hipsters is the nuanced icing on the cake that is your wedding. » Based in New York City, 347-750-6994 NST PICTURES: NST Pictures offers cinematic wedding videography nationwide. Our team is passionate about creating gorgeous, artistic wedding films that capture the atmosphere and emotion of one of the most important days in your family’s history. Packages start at $980 with the option to customize and add on more films, footage and copies so every couple can afford their own personal time capsule. » Based in New York City, 855-642-6531 POP KARMA: Pop Karma makes irresistible gourmet popcorn out of sustainably grown, real food ingredients. Their elegant packaging, fun flavors and customization options allow you to create unforgettable wedding favors. Pop Karma’s delicious flavors start with a base of pure organic air-popped popcorn, which is then layered with top-quality ingredients to provide a uniquely delicious treat. » Based in New York City, 917-675-5450 RYAN BROWN CATERING: Ryan Brown Catering offers all of the elements that have made a decade of

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parties a smashing success: fabulous food, professional staff and full service planning. Whether it’s a big bash or small soirée, we work closely with you to personalize your menu choices made with local, organic produce and grass-fed beef and, in the end, each plate will reflect you and your style. » Based in New York City, 718-852-2575

SANDRA COSTELLO PHOTOGRAPHY: Nothing makes me happier than a wedding. It is one of the greatest celebrations between two people. I want you to be yourself on your wedding day. Nothing more, nothing less. I can’t wait to load my camera with moments that reflect the love radiating from those who love you. » Based in Holyoke, Mass., 413-427-1676 SARMA & CO.: Sarma & Co. Photography is a unique team of photographers who create images with an editorial feel, including a balance of organic moments and portraiture. They are photographers who document weddings with the idea in mind of creating a visual artifact. » Based in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, 917-470-9773 STUDIO A IMAGES: I see myself as a storyteller with a camera. Every couple has a story, and I want to depict your unique love story. It is extremely important to me that the photographs I create at a wedding are both unique and artistic, and when seen collectively, tell the entire story of the day. » Based in New York and New Jersey, 201-222-6964 THE BUSHNELL: The spaces throughout The Bushnell offer a unique and memorable environment for weddings, bar mitzvahs, corporate

meetings and more. The Bushnell is Hartford’s centerstage with easy access to both Interstates 84 and 91.

We offer innovative event planning, audio/visual support, and catering

by Greater Hartford’s premier restaurant group, Max Catering. » Based in Connecticut, 860-987-6044

THE RAGING SKILLET: If there is such a thing as an anti-caterer, this company, which specializes in nontraditional weddings and parties, may be it. Every detail is personalized.

Chef Rossi lets her wacky sense of humor loose. The Zagat has called The Raging Skillet “the wildest catering company this side of the Mason-Dixon line.” » Based in New York City, 212-677-2204 TIME INTO PIXELS PHOTOGRAPHY: Irina and Greg have a knack for documenting images that can stand the test of time.

Their portfolio is filled with wedding photography that will proudly sit on mantels for generations, using a style that is classic while still feeling fresh. » Based in Minnesota, info@timeintopixels.com VIVA MAX WEDDINGS: Viva Max Kaley is an experienced New York wedding planner with a style that brings practicality, know-how and a few high-fives and hugs into your wedding planning process.

Your event may be a year away or a few weeks out, but through her enthusiasm, dedication and spunk, Viva Max helps you create your perfect wedding. » Based in New York City, 646-504-8482

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