4
Index
06 PLANNING The Countdown Starts WEDDING 08 DESTINATION Sergio & Jennifer Join their Lives
BOYFRIEND 10 THE How to Choose the Engagement Ring
12 HONEYMOON in Washington, D.C. MARIPOSA 16 CASA Bridal Guide
34 36 38
Elegant, 22 Modern, Classic find your Wedding Dress
28 CEREMONY Getting the Perfect Decor WISE TIPS FOR 30 5YOUR WEDDING
32 THE IDEAL BANQUET
42
STYLE FLASH Dress up your Home White GALLERY Find your Wedding Vendors HEALTH Relax with a Spa Treatment THE PERFECT SESSION Five Steps to a Great Bridal Session
6
Directory
On the front Cover: Photography: David Pezzat Location: Family Valdez Dress: Sposa Mia Couture Stylist: Blanca Gonzales & Alma Cardenas Hair & MUA: Mary Chapa MODEL: Kimberly Suchil
The wedding is such a very important event in life that its memory will remain in our mind forever. It marks the beginning of a new stage and requires the couple’s total dedication during the preparation of their special event.
Publisher Editor Guillermo Cruz Administrator/Production Manager: Olga Adame Gráphic Designer Adrian Dario Vera Calderón Ernesto Adahir Cruz Alcaraz Contribution Writers/Translate Celina Acosta Contributing Photographers Anahí Navarro David Pezzat Eric Sierra Contributing Editor Elia Noemí Escalante Published by Grupo Editorial Maxwell S.A de C.V.
While planning the wedding both will experience as a couple an avalanche of new experiences, stressful moments, emotions, decisions and hopes, but as the day approaches they will realize they have overcome difficulties they have never imagined existed. Then is when they will be totally confident and convinced that their marriage will have a good start, with them as a happy and strong couple willing to enjoy their new life.
Distribution Maxwell Novias 1001 S. 10 St Suite 211 McAllen, Tx., 78501 Ph. (956) 222 6506 (956) 475 7263
Maxwell Novias understands the great responsibility that both bride and groom have upon them as well as the challenging journey ahead, therefore, puts together a select group of wedding experts which will be able to guide them throughout this incredible adventure. Starting from the wedding ceremony, the reception, as well as the dress, banquet, honey moon and even their new home. We walk with you and cover every single aspect of your celebration with both a practical and a professional view that will make this the most extraordinary and unforgettable event in your life, congratulations!
email: olgaadame@maxwellmcallen.com guillermocruz@maxwellmcallen.com
www.maxwellnovias.com
Special Thanks: Blanca Gonzales Susana Rosser Brenda Guerra
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GRUPO EDITORIAL MAXWELL S.A DE C.V. Ad conten is not reponsability of Maxwell Novias. No portion of this guide may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher 1001 South 10 St. Suite 211, McAllen, Tx. 78501; (956) 222 6506 / (956) 475 7263 Printing by Coloristas y Asociados, S.A. de C.V., Calzada de los Héroes 315, Col. Centro, León, Guanajuto. Tel. (477) 716.69.61
8
Planning
By: Mary Carmen Saldívar • Photo by: Anahí Navarro
The countdown
starts
Organization is the clue for a perfect wedding. This calendar will help you do it:
8 months before: • • • • •
Choose your wedding dress and his Tuxedo Select and order invitations Decide and book your honeymoon Make guests list Decide book the photographer and videographer
5 months before: •
1 year before: • • • • • • • • • •
Make your engagement formal Choose and define the date Define the style and length of your wedding Determine your budget Settle the number of guests Choose the wedding planner company Pick the church and/or City Hall and the location where the event will take place Select all your godparents: rings, wedding coins, bouquet, and lasso Set the budget for your honeymoon research on beautiful honeymoon destinations
• • • • •
Send invitations to out-of-town family and friends, confirm their attendance Make hotel reservation for them Decide and book the music Attend your menu tasting test Choose and book transportation for the bride Set up wedding registries
3 months before: • • • •
Attend pre nuptial classes Send invitations Hire floral arrangements Search for and buy the bride and groom’s wedding shoes, you will have to try them on and use them before the wedding.
• • • •
2 months before:
Make reservations for a nuptial suite for the night before your honeymoon Have hair and make up tryouts Coordinate with family and friends your bachelor/bachelorette parties Assign seating for your guests
1 month before: • • •
Deliver the final guest count to the location where you are having your wedding as well as the table distribution Review your wedding check list and make sure that everything is being taken care of Rehearse your first dance
2 weeks before: • •
Hair grooming for both of you Order the bride’s flower bouquet
1 week before: • • • • •
Pick up the groom’s attire Relax with a couple’s spa treatment Get all your travel documents ready Double-check your honeymoon reservations Start packing for your trip
1 day before: RELAX! Check again that the important things are ready: • • • • • • • • •
Lasso, Wedding Coins, Bouquet, Rings, Wedding Toasting Glasses, Wedding Cake Knife Check photography and video Verify that flowers are ready Have godparents, bridesmaids, and flower girls be there 30 minutes before the ceremony starts Confirm your hair salon appointment Try on your dress at home for the last time Have your luggage ready Keep handy and in a safe place: plane tickets, hotel reservations, passports/ visas, credit cards, and traveler’s checks Go to bed early
The day of your wedding: • • • • •
Have a good and non-spicy breakfast Attend your make up and hair appointments Get dressed two hours before the wedding Photo-shoot session with bride and groom Enjoy your special day!
12
The Boyfriend
By: Mary Carmen Saldívar • Photo by: sxc.hu
How to choose the
engagement ring
It is a piece of jewelry with a significant meaning for the rest of you life. To make the best choice please consider the following ideas:
An engagement ring is a proof of love and as such, the bride must wear it in her left ring finger, this it is an ancient Greek tradition where they believed that the vena amoris (vein of love) ran directly from the heart to this particular finger. Since this is a very special element, choosing is not easy. The groom not only wants to prove her fiancée his love and commitment for her, but also wants her to wear it with pride and that she absolutely loves to use it not only because of its meaning but because of its design. Therefore, when buying an engagement ring you need to take you time, go through lots of different options, compare styles, prices, qualities and the most important thing, observe your fiancée carefully:
Are her accessories silver plated or gold?
This will help you decide whether to choose white or yellow gold, platinum, etc • •
• • •
Her style
If her accessories are few, discrete, and small that is how her ring should be. This means a delicate gem mounted on a simple ring. If by the contrary she likes to wear jewelry sets, fancy necklaces and hair accessories, her perfect ring would be a large gem or a fancy mount that will match her personality.
How are her hands?
Thin and long: perfect for triangular or square designs. Small: an oval ring will fit her well Big: perfect type for huge gems.
Adjusting the ring
After spending plenty of time looking for he
perfect ring, you cannot afford to make a mistake on her size. The easiest thing to do is to try to get one of her rings. One that she uses and that fits her perfectly. Ask for help to any member of her family or a friend.
In the hands of the experts:
Even if you choose to buy a typical yellow gold solitaire, a wedding band or a gem combination, the truth is that an engagement ring is something that you don’t buy everyday. Do not hesitate in contacting jewelry specialists they will guide you and asses you in reference to the color, cut, clarity and carats or points of the stone as well as the type of mounts to choose, the type of precious metal to be used and the finishing. Don’t forget that along with your purchase you must get a certificate of authenticity that describes the ring’s characteristics, value and specifications.
14
Honeymoon
By: Verรณnica Ortega โ ข Photo by: Capital Regiรณn USA www.capitalregionusa.com | Sales Internacional www.salesinternacional.com
Honeymoon in
Washington, D.C.
No need to worry whether to go to a cosmopolitan place or visit the wonders of nature, you can find everything within the United States.
Hotel Willard Intercontinental, Washington, D.C.
Capitolio, Washington, D.C.
Just a word to describe Washington DC: stunning!
A very intense metropolis that has within a single District the best that the world can offer: art, culture, gastronomy, architecture, fashion and entertainment, it is here, at the controversial seat of government of the United States, where the most glamorous proposals from around the world are displayed. The city, named after the nation’s first president George Washington, displays a great variety of monuments and the world’s largest museum and research complex: the Smithsonian Institute. Going over it is like having a close encounter with history as well as current world affairs. Also, Washington DC has a remarkably convenient feature, the entrance for most of its museums and monuments are free of charge.
A memorable walk
A must see place in Washington is the National Mall, it is an open-area national park. In the midst of its lush natural surroundings you will find one of the most important monuments, one that is dedicated to first president George Washington, with its characteristic obelisk, which we have seen numerously in movies. Some others are, the Lincoln memorial and the US capitol both
National Mall, Washington, D.C.
considered as main parts of US political life and of course widely seen on the big screen as well.
Romance and entertainment
As the sunset falls, the U Street corridor waits for its visitors to please them with an ample variety of gastronomic options and extraordinary entertainment alternatives to choose from like nightclubs, most of which hosted some of the most famous Jazz legends. You will also encounter exquisite galleries and shops, stepping into them will definitely be an inspiring experience. Looking for a more romantic spot? Go straight to DuPont Circle or Georgetown two eccentric towns where every street and building have a story to tell. Strolling through them while enjoying a good cup of coffee would be the best thing to do as you discover its bohemian essence at every corner. If you want to add some glamour to your visit, you will need to attend any on the numerous local shows presented at either the magnificent National Theater, the ancestral Kennedy Center or the contemporary National Theater, you will definitely find in any of them a good charming and attractive performance o maybe a true astonishing concert.
16
Destination
‌At its
surroundings
Near Washington DC, two places with wild colonial surroundings that seduce love.
Maryland Bound by vineyards that can be explored with the help of a guide and with irresistible wine tasting experiences, Maryland is the perfect getaway to escape from urban frenzies. Great rivers, mountains and the beautiful Chesapeake Bay make this a perfect spot to enjoy outdoor activities: boating, a walk by the dock or bicycle or horseback tours along the forest.
Virginia
Port of Annapolis, Chesapeake Bay, Maryland
Hosts the most exclusive hotels and resorts surrounded by enormous gardens, golf courts and Spas that will simply make you sigh. The architecture and dĂŠcor of most of its hotels preserve these colonial styles. Staying at one of these hotels is like experiencing the best of both worlds: old time lodging with modern amenities and high service and hospitality standards. Since there are a lot of national parks, in Virginia you can enjoy different outdoor activities such as rafting, fishing, hiking or wild fauna watching tours. Garden in Fairfax, Virginia
18
Bridal Guide
By: MaxwellNovia • Photos by: Anahí Navarro
Casa Mariposa
the perfect location!
The beauty of Casa Mariposa provides a relaxing environment filled up with exquisite details that will captivate your senses. From this place we’ll introduce to you the last trends for you to have the wedding of your dreams. www.casamariposaspi.com
Vendors: •Anahi Navarro • Edgar Navarro • Dream Weddings by All Party Rentals • Special Flowers • Sposa Mia couture •Casa Mariposa • Social Situations • Beautiful Brides by Rosemary • Wray & Company Catering by Design • John Arriola Films Weddings Cinematography • James & James Formal Wear • And Maxwell Novias. Models: Yvonne Zerda • Megan Lozano • Regina Orduña •Andrew Gilliland
20
Bridal Guide
•Just for the occasion If the idea is to have eye-catching centerpieces at your tables, you will have them: handcrafted pieces of art combined with a touch of light. For a luxurious setting, it is important to include creative details (on napkin holders, chairs, etc).
• Art in your table
Have as centerpieces real pieces of art! Provided by Dream Weddings and created by Susana Rosser. You are having a very exclusive event, so delight your guests with unique and fanciful table decorations, taking care of every single detail to make it unforgettable.
• Vibrant colors full of life.
The combination of stimulating colors together with luxurious details, create an environment full of life. Dream weddings by All Party Rentals offers these exquisite details that will make your wedding absolutely distinctive and elegant. www.allpartyrentals.com
22
Bridal Guide
• Pure elegance for the most memorable moment of your life
Women have always wanted to wear a beautiful and spectacular wedding dress on their big day. If you want to impress your fiancé, Sposa Mia Couture is the right place to go, you definitely will find there that dress you have always dreamed of.
www.sposamia.com
• The secret for getting a perfect setting with harmony
Candles create an environment full of warmth and intimacy. Their light will only illuminate the necessary spots, making your guests feel comfortable, and relaxed. This is a very common resource, so the options are countless and making a decision gets easier.
• Beautiful flowers Feel indulged by details
We know that planning a wedding is extremely important for you, therefore, if any concern, question, etc. gets in your way ask Brenda Guerra a floral expert that will help you express your feelings with flowers in the most beautiful way possible.
www.specialflowers4u.com
•The Honeymoon
After all the tension and stress that planning a wedding produces, there is nothing more rewarding that starting your honeymoon with a blissful and exhilarating evening.
• A Live Wedding
Bring your wedding to life by choosing exotic flowers; whether it is your tables, bouquet or the setting, Special Flowers will give you the best advise for the occasion.
•Luxurious Desserts
Make an impression with delightful and unique desserts not only by their looks but by their great taste. Tempt your guests with beautiful desserts arranged with flowers, taste and style.
Wray & Company Catering by Design
Delicate style in haute couture. An elegant touch to transcend the big day.
www.sposamia.com
TRUNK SHOWS 2013 Intuzuri Costura 01/11/13 - 01/12/13 Victor Harper 01/18/13 - 01/19/13 Maria Elena Headpieces 01/31/13 - 02/02/13 05/17/13 - 05/18/13 Eve Of Milady and Amalia Carrara 02/01/13 - 02/02/13 Martina Liana and Essense of Australia 02/08/13 - 02/09/13
www.sposamia.com
www.sposamia.com
Photography: David Pezzat www.davidpezzat.com Location: Quinta Mazatlรกn www.quintamazatlan.com Family Valdez Dreses: Sposa Mia Couture 912 N 10th St. McAllen, Tx. 78501 Ph. (956) 683 8740 Email:beautifulbrides@sposamia.com www.sposamia.com Stylist: Blanca Gonzales & Alma Cardenas Hair & MUA: Mary Chapa Models: Kimberly Suchi Bethanny Villareal
30
Ceremony
By Maxwell Novias • Photo by: Jay Caballero
Getting the
perfect décor
“The secret for getting a perfect setting with harmony is to personalize your favorite elements and integrate them within a single concept”.
The wedding place, an element of inspiration The décor style of the wedding, will depend on the location this will take place. For this reason, we recommend the brides that the first thing they must do is: choosing the place.
Beat the greatest challenge
One of the greatest challenges for brides is to conciliate their wishes and the investment they are planning to make. If you seek the advise of an expert, this task will be much easier: “A wedding planner maximizes resources and gets better estimates”
Harmony overall
The secret for a perfect wedding décor is to seek a balance between the elements, keeping in mind the concept of every style: If the concept is
Never be missing:
Classic and romantic Bohemian
During the event, the light should be soft.
Elegant and sophisticated
Nice linens and good illumination: Lighting should be intense at the beginning to enhance the setting and make your guests shine.
Soft lights and candles Candles and rustic elements such as canvas, wood
and stones. Contemporary Metals, contrasts, plain textures texturas lisas.
Experience the Fantasy
• • •
Say yes to:
Translucent drapes from ceiling to floor to get a warm and cozy environment. A good combination of glassware. A good mix and match will dress up spectacularly any table. Gold and silver tones go perfect at day or night and are excellent to combine.
32
Ceremony
By: Verónica Ortega • Photo by: Cortesy by Meliá Hotels International
5 Wise Tips
for your Wedding
The key to a perfect wedding planning.
1. Combine ideas and wishes
The first step in planning a wedding is that the bride and groom come together to talk about it. Exchange ideas, desires and concerns. It is advisable to have a common goal, to facilitate agreements and decision making. At first just look for the general idea of the wedding theme.
2. Set date and budget
These two points are essential for the organization of the wedding without obstacles or uncomfortable surprises. The date defines the time of year that the couple plans to marry, from which you can determine the type of banquet and venue you want to have, and even the decoration of the venue. Once the budget is established you can get accurate estimates from the service providers.
3. Verify venue availability
We recommend visiting the venue before signing any contract. Walk through the place, to check if it has the necessary infrastructure: i.e. adequate parking, air conditioning, adequate restrooms and appropriate lighting. Check if you will have the required electrical
capacity and if the kitchen has the correct size and is well equipped for the type of meal that is intended to be served. This visit is good to detect outside noises and assess surroundings.
4. Live music and culinary experience
The banquet and music are two of the most important elements of the wedding, and we suggest you experience several of them before choosing. During the food tasting, it is also feasible to see decoration mounting options and centerpieces, so these tests are very helpful. As for the music, it is always advisable to go to an event like yours to watch and listen to the desired group or DJ before hiring.
5. Invite and confirm in advance
The best way to ensure the presence of the guests, it is timely notice (i.e. save the date), and begin to “spread the word”. Form your guests’ database which will facilitate the delivery of invitations and RSVPs. The invitations should be distributed at least one month before the wedding date and the attendance confirmation should be completed 15 days prior to the big day.
Banquet
By Verónica Ortega • Photo by: Anahí Navarro
The ideal
banquet
Selecting the perfect menu is easier than you think; you just have to consider some key aspects:
Season
The time of year you choose for your wedding will set a guideline to decide how your banquet menu must be. You must do some research after you choose the date and see which type of weather predominates: hot or cold. Knowing this can help you determine if your entrées or desserts will be cold or warm. Likewise, the season of the year may help you define the colors to be used on linens: vivid for spring and summer, darker for fall and winter.
Guests
The size of your guest list is the main point of reference, after all the banquet is meant to please them. It’s recommendable to study your list and see what is the age group that prevails. If you have a large amount of seniors go for something that is made of white instead of read meat, preferably non spicy.
Timetable
If you are considering to cut expenses on your banquet, you will definitely need to make an evening time wedding. The specialist explains: the daytime weddings tend to prolong for more than 6 hours. This will result in some extra services such as: Tornaboda (a variety of Mexican dishes) temptation bar (variety of hors d’oeuvres) or a snack bar with chamoy salsa / chocolate fountains. Also, lunch menus include one more item than the dinner menu. As soon as you decide day or night, you will be able to start choosing the proper options from the menu.
Tip: define the menu 6 months before the wedding Is better if the brides should make a menu pre selection, attend food-tasting sessions and define the banquet 6 months before the wedding. “The 6 months before your wedding are full of activities for the couple, if you define before this time frame your menu, the pair will be able to focus in other tasks. While feeling relaxed as they have already taken care of their banquet�.
36
Style Flash
By: Verรณnica Ortega โ ข Photo by: Jorge Caracheo
Dress up your home
white
This color is the new trend in home accessories. The advantage? What you put in them will look the best.
Macys lamp
Macys candle holder
Macys White Cup
Macys Frames
Macys Botanero
38
Gallery
By Maxwell Novias
Find Your
wedding Vendors Coordinatión Craft
A montage with glassware, invites you to sit, live and enjoy. Bellagio Event Center 109 E. Ferguson St. Pharr, Tx.Ph:(956)624-2789
By: Maxwell Novias
Photo by Anahí Navarro
Art in your table
You are having a very exclusive event, so delight your guests with unique and fanciful table decorations, taking care of every single detail to make it unforgettable. 1514 N. Closner Blvd, Edinburg, Tx. 78541 Ph: (956) 381- 9080
www.allpartyrentals.com
Luxurious Desserts
Make an impression with delightful and unique desserts not only by their looks but by their great taste. Tempt your guests with beautiful desserts arranged with flowers, taste and style. 605 10 Stth, Mcallen, Tx 78501. Ph: (956) 668-7070 Photo by: Jesús Antonio Photographer
A touch of Elegance
Bring your wedding to life by choosing exotic flowers; whether it is your tables, bouquet or the setting, Special Flowers will give you the best advise for the occasion. 113 E. Pecan St., Suite B McAllen, Tx 78501 Ph: (956) 631-0268
Photo by Eric Sierra
Portrail of a dream wedding
Beautiful wedding photos make for everlasting memories. Local & Destinations Weddings 1300 N. 10th St. Suite 410 McAllen, Tx. 78501 Ph: (956) 522-4562
www.ericsierra.com
www.specialflowers4u.com Photo by Anahí Navarro
40
Health
By Mary Carmen Saldívar Sillas • Photo by: sxc.hu
Relax with a Spa treatment
before your big day
Caught in the midst of planning, deciding, and choosing, both groom and Bride get exhausted. Recover, recharge your energy, and prepare to shine.
The Spa magic No matter which treatment you pick, if done as a spa type, it will always be gratifying for both body and soul. Besides the specific benefits you get with these type of treatments, if you only introduce yourself into the spa ambience will be enough to make you live a very pleasant and relaxing experience due to: •
•
The music, scents, textures, of every treatment at the spa will nurture your mind and body transporting you into a state of complete peacefulness. The use of aromatic massage oils and lotions and the different types of massage therapies, will make you feel relaxed and revitalized. Your exfoliated skin will feel cleansed and hydrated, you will look and feel so refreshed that everyone will notice!
These treatments are perfect for the couple to enjoy just a week before the wedding. But please make sure to choose those treatments that will be soothing to your skin without any risk of irritations.
What options do you have? • One week spa program A week before your wedding spend 1 hour for at least 3 days to pamper yourselves with treatments such as, hydrotherapy, massages, body wraps, hot stones, reiki, facials, manual lymphatic drainage, Finnish bath or sauna, reflexology, body exfoliation, manicure, pedicure and waxing. • A 3 day stay at a Spa hotel These hotels offer a variety of options that may include accommodations, food, etc and any spa treatment of your choice. The interesting point here is that those spa programs include treatments that can be combined to maximize the results you are looking for. Here is what you may find: Ayurvedic: For physical, mental and emotional peace. Holistic: to restore your energy balance. Purifying: to eliminate toxins, revitalize your mind and body, recover your positive attitude. The most delightful part is? That during 72 hours your only goal will be: to rediscover yourselves as a couple and get pampered. • What’s new today? The Spa at home Some companies are now offering this type of delivery service. They take the spa to you home, the setting, the aromas, and obviously the specialists. This is a very good option if you want to share either with your bridesmaids or your fiancé a day of face, body and hair treatments, massages, therapies such as seaweed, chocolate, wine, and a pedicure and manicure for beautiful hands and feet.
44
The Perfect Session
Written & Photo by: David Pezzat
Five Steps to a
Great Bridal Session
In my experience as a professional wedding photographer, I have had many brides-to-be ask me about the significance of a bridal session. Why should they take a portrait of themselves?
then I try to match that look with the most appropriate location. Every gown is different, as is every bride, so I try to match their gown and personality to their session’s location.
2. Expect to dedicate an entire day to your session.
You have to get your hair and make-up done, then you have to get to the location and get dressed...all before the session begins. And please, do your best to be on time. A rushed session does not make anyone happy, and you will be more focused on time, rather than being in-the-moment. You want your focus to be on having fun, looking your best, and creating some priceless images that you will keep for the rest of your life.
3. Be picky about who you ask to accompany you, and limit yourself to one or two people at the most. How to get Amazing Photos
There are many reasons for taking this portrait. Not only do you get to wear your gown for more than a few minutes in a dressing room, but you will be moving around, basically getting an idea of how you can move comfortably in your dress. Another important reason for the session for some brides-to-be is family. This portrait can be used as a gift to your parents, a symbol of your changing role as you leave your first family to begin your own. This portrait can also become a priceless heirloom for any future children. After all, haven’t you ever sat down with Mom or Grandmother as she told you all about her wedding day? Now that you know the importance that this session carries, how should you prepare for it? I’ll give you a few ideas to get you excited for your very own Bridal Session!
1. Choose a location along with your photographer that makes you feel like you belong there.
I ask my clients to show me a picture of their gown, and
Choose someone that is supportive, has a happy demeanor, and makes you feel good about yourself! This person will be helping you get dressed, carry your train/veil as you move around, and help you with whatever happens to come up during the session. 4. Do a practice run for your hairstyle and make-up well before the day of your session, or you may have to deal with some “surprises.” Some brides feel that it is too time-consuming and expensive to do “trial runs” just for a photo session, but only you can decide what suits you best. My advice is to be as prepared as you can so that you can be happy about the way you look on the day of your session.
5. Finally, and this is the most important thing for you to do: be happy!
When you are happy, you are relaxed and being yourself. You aren’t forcing a fake smile, you’re wearing a real one. Let go of whatever is stressing you out and live in-the-moment. Smile, twirl, be flirty, be brave, be a princess! But always let your true self shine through, because that will make for the most beautiful picture of all!