St. Louis Bride Fall/Winter 2014

FALL/WINTER 2014

Made in St. Louis

Designed to

Wedding Show Know-How Splurge-Worthy items 10 Art-Inspired Tablescapes 27 Real Weddings

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Reception Sites

Merging Homes wedding cakes $5.00 Display until Jan. 30, 2015

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from the editor

Behind the Scenes I AM OFTEN asked how we put an issue

together—what really goes on behind the scenes.

Although the question is simple, there are no easy answers. Just from an editorial standpoint, one issue of Saint Louis Bride magazine takes nearly six months to plan and execute from beginning to end. Just as a bride-to-be carefully plans every wedding detail, I plan the content, assign stories, choose wedding gowns and accessories to photograph and consider all of the real wedding submissions. Not to mention contacting area experts to create bouquets, cakes and tablescapes for a particular photoshoot.

Once the editorial calendar is set, the art director and I discuss the overall theme of the cover and fashion feature. We were very fortunate with this issue because the husband/wife photography team of Photo Elegance pitched us a beautiful vision for the dress feature. See it come to life in “Designed to Dazzle,” beginning on page 132.

Our cake feature, “Sweet Inspiration,” was shot right here in our magazine studio and the table design feature, “Dynamic Décor,” was photographed on location at the Doubletree Chesterfield right before the St. Louis Wedding Awards dinner began.

In between photoshoots and “dress shopping,” our office is usually swarming with photographers, wedding planners and brides who are dropping off their real wedding submissions for consideration. Back in 2002, when I began working at Saint Louis Bride, we selected only ten couples. I’m excited to say we now feature twenty-seven couples!

Some of my favorite images and videos are those that were taken behind the scenes. You don’t need a professional team to capture the months of planning prior to your wedding day—just grab a camera (or your phone), along with a journal and record them. Believe me, you’ll be glad you did.

Nancy L. Slade, Editor

This issue of Saint Louis Bride is dedicated to the memory of two very special people to me and the staff here at Saint Louis Bride—John Paulsen, Catering Director at the Chase Park Plaza and longtime wedding industry professional, and Diana Losciale, freelance writer for Saint Louis Bride. Gone way to soon and will be missed dearly.

Above, Diana Losciale and John Paulsen.

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Visit us online at www.bridestl.com and www.facebook.com/stl.bride

(NANCY) ©ALECIA HOYT, XOXO ALICE

Thanks for letting us help with your planning!

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Contents FALL/WINTER 2014

Features 108 DYNAMIC DÉCOR Eleven art-inspired

tablescapes

132 DESIGNED TO DAZZLE Ten fascinating gowns to

tickle your bridal fancy

146 DIAMONDS AND LACE

What lies underneath the gown

158 SWEET INSPIRATIONS Eight scrumptious

masterpieces

REAL WEDDINGS REAL MOMENTS 27 couples tie the knot

©photo elegance

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CONTENTS TIPS & TRENDS 30

AROUND TOWN

88

SITES TO BEHOLD Nine reception venues

94

WEDDING AWARDS

98

ST. LOUIS SHOPPING

104

SPOTLIGHT ON SUN CARE A guide to safe fun in the sun

254

176

Six nightstand-worthy wedding books

180

94

GOOD READS ASK ANNA Q&A with etiquette expert Anna Post

254

UNVEILED! Catching up with the insiders that make St. Louis weddings work

PLANNING

184

178 98

102

YOURS, HIS AND OURS Merging two houses into one home

178

WEDDING SPLURGE Manage your budget to get what you want

180

THE PERFECT HONEYMOON Six tips for a terrific trip

182

WEDDING SHOW KNOW-HOW Do’s and dont’s to help you navigate

184

PROS AND CONS OF HOLIDAY WEDDINGS Some holidays work better than others

RESOURCES 207 MAKING IT LEGAL Where and how to apply for the marriage license

208 RECEPTION SITES List of venues in an easy-to-read grid

216

SAINT LOUIS BRIDE ESSENTIAL GUIDE A list of top vendors, services, locations and hours

217

TRUNK SHOW CALENDAR

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:

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Editor Nancy L. Slade

Art Director Teri Samuels

Publisher Ethan Woods

Vice President, Hawaii and Central Region Patti Ruesch Senior Account Manager Debbie Chervitz

Account Managers Linda Pearson Chris Taylor

Circulation Manager Amy Fenster Brown

Product Managers Jasond Fernandez Cher Wheeler Senior Graphic Designer

Heather Guffin

Photo Retoucher Jerry Hartman

Photo Retoucher (Ads) Erik Lewis

♥ SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE MVP St. Louis 1006 Olive Street, Suite 202 St. Louis, MO 63101 (314) 588-8313 FAX (314) 588-0920 All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited.

SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE® is a registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications.

SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE® makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions.

Subscriptions in US $10.00 for one year (two issues), $20.00 for two years (four issues).

Remit funds to www.bridestl.com

♥ Morris VisITor Publications MVP | Executive

President Donna W. Kessler Vice President of Operations Angela E. Allen MVP | Creative

Chief Creative Officer Haines Wilkerson Design Director Jane Frey Email for the above: firstname.lastname@morris.com

A Publication of the Visitor Publications Division of Morris Communications Company, LLC 725 Broad St., Augusta, Ga. 30901

Chairman & CEO William S. Morris III President William S. Morris IV P rinted in the U nited S tates

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contributors

the fashion team

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Photo Elegance was established in 1999 by Biljana “Bibi” and Vlatko Erdeg, specializing in sophisticated, Boutique-Style Wedding photography. Biljana “Bibi” Erdeg traveled two continents, several countries and experienced life in five distinct cultures before making St. Louis her home in 1997. Bibi’s work has been featured in collections throughout the world—Italy, Spain, Croatia, Mexico, Colombia, Germany and Bolivia, as well as locally. Bibi loves people, photography, art and fashion. She is fascinated by the universality of emotions and unique language of human expression.

2 VLATKO ERDEG

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“To us, photography is the art of revealing the beauty in every person, in every situation! It’s an honor to work with such an awesome team who share the same sentiment.”

—BIBI AND VLATKO ERDEG, PHOTO ELEGANCE

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Vlatko comes from a family of photographers who have practiced the art for generations—dating back to beginning of the 19th century. As managing partner, he brings his strengths in organization, planning, technical production and design to Photo Elegance.

“Our wedding photography is essential, clean and elegant. We use an individual approach to each client. Whether we are photographing wedding or fashion, we strive to create images that move viewers spiritually and emotionally. Together, we share a passion for photography that makes every session a moving experience.”

3 JESSICA DANA

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Jessica Dana has owned and operated Human Art, LLC since 2001.

Human Art provides services including makeup, hair, wigs, face painting and body art, and specializes in photography (commercial, theater, wedding, corporate and private event) and personal styling.

“The photo shoot with Saint Louis Bride Magazine was amazing and lavish. Having the best hair and makeup artists, alongside gorgeous

gowns in the most beautiful locations, photographed by one of the best companies in St. Louis, was a formula for success. I’m excited to see the end results in print and hope to inspire new ideas for future brides in St. Louis.” Jessica did the makeup for our “Designed to Dazzle” feature on pages 132 to 145.

4 JENNY KEHM Jenny is the owner and lead consultant of Before I Do. She has been planning and executing weddings since launching the business in 2011. Jenny was the stylist for our “Designed to Dazzle” feature on pages 132 to 145. “This shoot was incredible. There was so much talent working together.

The shoot combined the classic elements of lace and pearls with modern beading detail and color for today’s bride.”

5 JOHN NAPOLI John Napoli is a hair stylist, colorist and photo stylist at Studio Napoli in St. Louis. He has a lifetime of experience in the beauty industry in both the salon and as an educator. John enjoys opportunities to express his creativity, such as working as a photo stylist or creating a special look for a bride on her wedding day. When not working with clients in the salon or on a photo shoot, he can be found working on his historic home in Soulard, where he resides with his partner Dustin and Buddy their dog. John styled the tresses for our “Designed to Dazzle” feature on pages 132 to 145.

ALL PHOTOS (EXCEPT JENNY KEHM) BY PHOTO ELEGANCE

1 BIBI ERDEG

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contributors

working behind the scenes

2

3 2 KRISTINA MCGAUGHEY

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Kristina McGaughey works as an on-location makeup artist.

She’s been doing makeup full time since 2001 for a variety of bridal, private, retail, entertainment, and corporate clients. “What I loved about this shoot is how Alecia and her crew managed to capture the delight and anticipation of a bride on the morning of the wedding.

Getting ready is truly part of the fun.” Kristina did the makeup for our feature “Diamonds and Lace” on pages 146-157.

3 MACY MEHRLE

“My favorite thing about this shoot was Tiki the poodle and her sapphire choker! Second favorite is that the women featured are normal everyday women, not professional models.”

1 ALECIA HOYT Alecia Hoyt created Alice and the XOXO Alice studio to provide women in St. Louis with the opportunity to have classy, sexy, exquisite portraits of themselves in a safe, luxurious environment.

This is her first feature with St. Louis Bride magazine. “I’m excited to show brides what a fun gift boudoir sessions can be for their grooms.” See more real women at www.xoxoalice.com. Alecia photographed the feature “Diamonds and Lace” on pages 146-157.

—ALECIA HOYT

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Owner/Cinematographer of Rue De La Vie, Macy started filming weddings with her husband, Jeremy, in 2009. “I absolutely love doing boudoir video! I find it refreshing to see a different part of the wedding day highlighted and I’m very grateful to be a part of bringing the sexy back. Macy shot video of the photo shoot for the feature “Diamonds and Lace” on pages 146-157. Check out the video at www.ruedelavie.com/ stlouisbride.

4 HOLLY SPEAKES For the past 13 years, Holly Speakes has been a licensed stylist in the St. Louis area and is owner of ProColour Salon in St. Charles Holly says “working with Alecia is always a blast. She is, in my opinion, the top Boudoir photog-

4 rapher in St. Louis. I was so excited to do this shoot with Alecia I actually cut my vacation a day short! I am proud to be a stylist on the XOXO Alice team.” Find more info about Holly at www.ProColourSalon.com.

Holly styled the tresses for our feature “Diamonds and Lace” on pages 146-157.

5 KURTIS HALL Kurtis Hall is an award-winning photographer from Saint Louis, Missouri.

Excelling in the technical aspect of photography, he also knows when true emotion and affection should be captured with a simplistic, yet artful eye. “Each table set up was amazing!

Each table had their inspiration, and they took it to a whole new level.”

Kurtis photographed “Dynamic Décor” on pages 106 to 128.

6 DAVID LANCASTER David’s daytime career as editor of Where Magazine and Kansas City Where Guestbook has never kept him from being a longtime contributor to the pages of St. Louis Bride, for which he has photographed countless bouquets, gifts, jewelry, accessories, food and fashion over the last thirteen years. For this issue, David shot our cakes on pages 158 to 174.

(TOP LEFT) PHOTO BY JEN ROZENBAUM; (OTHERS IN TOP ROW) BY ALECIA HOYT, XOXO ALICE

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on the cover

“The shoot combined the classic elements of lace and pearls with modern beading detail and color for today's bride.”

—JENNY KEHM

THE DRESS: Daphne by Modern Trousseau, $1,095 from Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique.

THE JEWELS: Hand woven seed pearl bracelet with garnets and aquamarine by RachelsDesign.com, $4,000. 18k white gold and diamond ring, $2,500 from Timekeepers.

tulips, white spray roses and ranunculus, stellada pods, pennycress, dusty miller, string of pearl plant.

Double-faced ivory satin ribbon wrap with silver pearled wire. By Les Bouquets.

LOCATION: Sohaila at 4739 McPherson in the Central West End.

THE BOUQUET: Cascading bouquet of white hyacinth, white

MODEL: Molly McCann, West Model & Talent Management • FLORIST: Les Bouquets • PHOTOGRAPHER: Bibi and Vlatko Erdeg, Photo Elegance STYLIST: Jenny Kehm, Before I Do • HAIR: John Napoli, Studio Napoli • MAKEUP: Jessica Dana, Human Art, LLC

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around town

New and noteworthy happenings in and around St. Louis

GET AROUND WHERE MAGAZINE, WHERE MAPS and the ST. LOUIS MENU GUIDE make the perfect additions to your welcome gifts for out-of-towners.

Call Amy Fenster Brown at Saint Louis Bride for more information, 314-588-8313.

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St. Louis ÂŽ

Menu samplings from St. Louis restaurants

THE BEST OF THE CITY

LET US SHOW YOU WHERE

@ wheretraveler.com

wheretraveler.com OPERA THEATRE’S SPRING SEASON GO LOCAVORE AT FARM-TO-TABLE EATERIES

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SOLE PATROL: FIND FABULOUS FOOTWEAR

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DAYTRIPS & STAYTRIPS FUN FOR HERE & THERE

Fancy Nancy Sighting Our editor (and huge Fancy Nancy fan) Nancy Slade had the opportunity to meet Fancy Nancy author Jane Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor and illustrator Robin Preiss Glasser at a book signing at Barnes & Noble in Fenton. Their new collaboration, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fancy Nancy and the Wedding of the Centuryâ&#x20AC;? ($17.99, Harper Collins), makes a terrific gift for flower girls and bridesmaids!

ANNIVERSARIES

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Louis, is celebrating his 30th year in

Riverboatsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the Tom Saw-

the travel industry, and Travel Haus

yer and Becky Thatcherâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;celebrate

is celebrating 20 years of operation

their 50th anniversary of cruising on

under his guidance.

the St. Louis riverfront.

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St. Louisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Gateway Arch

Michael Schellhase, President of Travel Haus of St.

WWW.BRIDESTL.COM â&#x20AC;˘ FALL/WINTER 2014

Abbie Takes Pictures is celebrating their 5th year in biz!

MOVERS & SHAKERS â&#x153;Ś The Paper Patch has moved to 12009

Manchester Road in Des Peres. â&#x153;Ś Congrats to Al Watson and Lia Weber of

Wedding Wonderland Cake Shop who are currently being featured on â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Next Great Bakerâ&#x20AC;? on TLC. Tune in on Tuesday nights at 8pm and cheer on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Blue Team.â&#x20AC;?

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Real Moments Jeanna Karsch & Louis Been October 19, 2013 Photographed by l photographie

At the gym HOW THEY put a ring on our dog’s collar, and told me that she had a weird bump on her. When I went to look for it I found the ring!” NUMBER OF GUESTS 200 WEDDING COLORS Metallics, Pewter, Navy The menu Top sirloin of beef, Dijon breaded chicken or salmon served with potatoes, veggies, and caesar salad. HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT The Groom and groomsmen had superman shirts on under their tuxedos, and the Groom sang a song to the bride. Wedding favors Flowers made from photos of the Bride, Groom and guests. FIRST DANCE “This Years Love” by David Gray BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT “The whole day was perfect!

Just seeing your vision come together is amazing!” groom’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Seeing the Bride walk down the aisle, and going into cocktail hour. Occupations: Jeanna works at Simply Elegant Bridal and Louis is an Insurance Agent at Insurance Concepts HONEYMOON St. Lucia RESIDE Imperial, MO adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Don’t procrastinate with your planning!

HOW THEY MET

GOT ENGAGED “He

Florist: Emily Frisella • Bride’s dress: Manuel Mota by Pronovias Ventura, Simply Elegant Bridal • Groom’s attire: Jim’s Formal Wear, Simply Elegant Bridal • Bride’s hair & makeup: Julie Dietrich • Bridesmaids hair & makeup: Kat Hinkle & Valerie Brown • Bridesmaid dresses: Alvina Valenta & Dessy, Simply Elegant Bridal • Wedding location: Statler Ballroom, Renaissance Grand, Downtown St. Louis Reception venue: Crystal Ballroom, Renaissance Grand Downtown St. Louis • Cake: Sugarbelle Cakery • DJ: Laren Loveless • Specialty lighting and décor: Millennium Productions • Paper goods: Paper Patch • Videographer: Switzerfilm

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Real Moments Blythe Bernhard & TJ Rizzuti September 27, 2013 Photographed by l photographie

How they met At

a backyard party hosted by a mutual friend How they got engaged TJ invited their friends to a trivia game night at Felix's in Dogtown, where the couple went on their first date. In the middle of the game, the host announced that TJ would be asking the next question.

He then got down on one knee and surprised Blythe, their friends, and the whole crowd by asking her to marry him! Number of guests 175 Wedding colors: Navy and silver The menu Pepper-crusted beef tenderloin and grilled salmon, whipped potatoes and asparagus How they personalized the event The bride is from Las Vegas, so the place cards looked like playing cards to match the table numbers.

The bride and groom hosted the two of hearts table. An ice sculpture featuring the signature St. Louis Blutini drink also displayed the St. Louis Blues logo. First dance “Glory of Love,” Peter Cetera BRIDE’s most memorable Dancing to “Footloose” with all my friends from childhood and beyond! moment GROOM’s most memorable

Surprise dance floor appearance by Fredbird Occupations Blythe is a Journalist, TJ is a Paramedic Honeymoon Italy Reside Dogtown, St. Louis Advice for brides-to-be Hire a consultant so you can be a guest at your own wedding. Be sure to soak in all the love and support from everyone who is there to celebrate with you. But don't feel guilty about not spending time with every guest, because they understand! moment

Any other news to share since

They are expecting a baby in November 2014.

your wedding?

Wedding consultant: Alred Wedding Consultants • Florist: Artistry Florist • Bride’s dress: Modern Trousseau, Fleur de Lis Bridal Boutique • Groom’s attire: Men's Wearhouse • Bride’s and bridesmaid's hair & makeup: Emily Miller • Bridesmaid dresses: JS Boutique, Nordstrom • Wedding location: Our Lady of Lourdes • Reception venue and caterer: The Chase Park Plaza • Band: Accolade • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events • Linens: BBJ Linens • Paper goods: M. Haley Design Ceremony music: Rosewood Ensemble • Transportation: All About You Limos

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Real Moments Anika Piorkowski & Garet Stroup March 8, 2014 Photographed by jon koch Photography

HOW THEY MET Anika and Garet met while volunteering at The Crossing Church in Chesterfield, MO. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Garet took Anika to her favorite park, Percy Warner in Nashville, TN. Garet packed a picnic lunch and set up a blanket under the trees. Garet began telling Anika numerous reasons why he loved her.

Anika had no idea that Garet had a photographer hiding, capturing the exact moment Garet proposed with a stunning princess cut engagement ring.

The excitement of the day didn’t stop there, Garet and friends planned a surprise party to continue the celebration.

NUMBER OF GUESTS 375 WEDDING COLORS Ivory, Cream, Gray, and Sherbet HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT The wedding favors were glow in the dark accessories to be used during the wedding reception that included rings, necklaces, wigs and gloves.

DJ Sulla faci FIRST DANCE “As long as our hearts are beating” Jenny and Tyler BRIDE and groom's MOST MEMORABLE

Garet and Anika decided to have a first look. During this time they chose to make it exclusive, only having the photographer, videographer and harpist in the sanctuary. They felt like it was truly surreal and thought it was hard to believe this day, this moment, had finally arrived and was so beautiful. HONEYMOON Sandals La Toc in St. Lucia RESIDE St. Charles County, MO occupations Anika is a Graphic Designer and Garet is a Senior Cyber Security Specialist Advice for bridesto-be Don’t be afraid to get opinions from those closest to you. Sometimes we forget that we need help.

MOMENT

Wedding consultant: Kristin Ashley Events • Florist: Poppies Design Studio • Bride’s dress: Lazaro 3108, Lori’s Bridal, Atlanta, GA Groom’s attire: Savvi, Mid Rivers Mall • Bride’s and bridesmaid's hair & makeup: Danielle Style • Bridesmaid dresses: Love Lane

by Ivy & Aster: Tori Long, Bella Bridesmaid • Wedding location: Memorial Presbyterian Church • Reception venue: The Palladium Caterer: Butler’s Pantry • Cake: The Cakery • Band or DJ: Galaxy Red Band • Specialty lighting and décor and Rentals: The Aries Company • Paper goods: Two Blue Doors • Transportation: Best Transportation • Videographer: Sweet Tea

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Real Moments Jillian Kalmer & Greg Isaak March 15, 2014 Photographed by switzerfilm

We actually met at the bar I worked at, Red Duece. Greg rode his motorcycle to the bar. The first thing I noticed about him was his smile... I admitted to myself he was very attractive. Of course, I shared my feelings with a fellow co-worker. It didn’t take long until I noticed her talking to him and then he approached me to talk.

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED We were cuddled up on the couch together and Greg got up to go to the restroom (so I thought). He came into the living room and kneeled down next to the couch. I was completely shocked! NUMBER OF GUESTS 222 WEDDING COLORS Blush/ ivory HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT We incorporated the peony, Jillian's favorite flower, and their dog was there that morning getting ready with the Bride and was at the first look. wedding favors Grandma’s Homemade Strawberry Jelly, Playing Cards, Dancing Shoes and Matches first dance “I Do” by Paul Brandt HOW THEY MET

BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

Our first look… I felt like that is when it “sunk in.” He looked so handsome and he was almost officially mine!

GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

The reception. It’s not too often you get the people you care about the most and love to be around in the same building.

HONEYMOON St. Maarten occupations Jillian is a financial planner and Greg is a laborer RESIDE New Baden, IL adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Go with your gut on making decisions. during wedding planning. Whether it is with decorating or hiring your vendors, choose someone you click with and is willing to do whatever it takes to make your dream come true!

Wedding consultant: Kristin Ashley Events • Florist: Poppies Design Studio • Bride’s dress: Allure Couture, Simply Elegant Bridal Groom’s attire: Jim’s Formal Wear • Wedding location: St. George Catholic Church, New Baden, IL • Reception venue: Hidden Lake Winery, Aviston, IL • Cake: Krystal’s Cakes, Highland, IL • Band or DJ: Millennium Productions • Specialty lighting and décor and linens: Weck Events, Belleville, IL • Rentals: Chairs, Grand Rental Station • Photobooth: Photo Beast, Highland, IL Videographer: Switzerfilm

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Real Moments Deborah Singer & Samuel Kaplan September 22, 2013 Photographed by l photographie

Deborah and Sam met while spending their junior years abroad at Oxford University in the UK. They met the first night of their program at an event organized for study abroad students and soon were spending every moment together. Their nine-year relationship has spanned three countries (US, UK, and Australia). HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Sam proposed on a bridge in the Japanese Gardens at the Missouri Botanical Gardens in St. Louis.

NUMBER OF GUESTS 180 WEDDING COLORS Mulled wine and shades of deep pink HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT They did the ceremony in the round under a Chuppah laced with hydrangeas. Deborah’s mother Miriam handmade the Chuppah from linens brought to the US by Deborah’s great-grandparents when they fled Nazi Germany. For the ceremony, they welcomed guests with Scrabble-themed name and table cards. BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Standing under the Chuppah with Sam, listening to my sisters sing traditional blessings, as we were surrounded by friends and family.

HOW THEY MET

GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

Seeing my beautiful bride walk down the aisle, surrounded by our friends and family, on a perfect St. Louis fall day.

Occupations Deborah is the head of marketing for Lulu, a social media startup, and Sam is an attorney specializing in capital markets HONEYMOON South Africa, including Capetown, wine country, and safari in Kruger National Park RESIDE London, England adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Sam and I wrote a “mission statement” for our wedding. This really helped clarify what was important to both of us and helped us prioritize and make tough decisions.

Wedding consultant: Simcha's Events • Florist: Flowers to the People • Bride’s dress: Olia Zavozina, Simply Elegant Bridal Groom’s attire: J Crew • Bride’s and bridesmaid's hair & makeup: Danielle Style • Bridesmaid dresses: J Crew Wedding location and reception venue: Culver Pavilion, The Muny • Caterer: Butler’s Pantry • Cake: Pies from Sugaree Music: Reception: Rosewood Ensemble; Band, Griffin & the Gargoyles • Specialty lighting and décor, linens and rentals: Exclusive Events • Paper goods: M Haley Design • Transportation: Vandalia Bus • Videographer: Video Views

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Real Moments Laura Lachky & Chris Meglan June 29, 2013 Photographed by jon koch Photography

HOW THEY MET In 2005, both were working in food service at Grant’s Farm. One day their boss sent them on a break at the same time from the infamous “hot dog cart” in the German Tier Garten. While in the break room, they chatted about a variety of topics— music, food, sports, etc. and found they had a lot in common. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED While skiing on vacation in Breckenridge, Colorado in 2012, Chris knelt down in the snow and proposed.

NUMBER OF GUESTS 264 WEDDING COLORS Aqua and brown HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT To bring their love for Breckenridge, Colorado to St. Louis, they incorporated rustic accents of Colorado throughout the reception: a folk band that played during the reception hour, aqua-colored snow skis for guests to sign, a horse shoe bar for guests to sip cocktails, and a “Late Night of Breckenridge” buffet featuring crepes from Breckenridge’s famous “Crepes Al A Carte” and chocolates from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. FIRST DANCE “The Luckiest” by Ben Folds BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

Walking down the aisle with my dad, and watching my husband’s face when he saw me in my wedding dress for the first time. Groom’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT I will never forget changing for the ceremony and realizing I had left my pants at my house. Luckily, my dad was able to run and get them before I walked down the aisle. occupations Chris is a Special Educator and Laura is a Reading Specialist for students in kindergarten through third grade. HONEYMOON A month-long tour of South America RESIDE Chicago, IL advice for bridesto-be Remember to take time to pause, look around, and take in all of the special moments on your big day.

Wedding Planner & Coordinator: Cosmopolitan Events • Florist: Bloomin’ Buckets • Ceremony: Cathedral Basilica • Reception: Old Warson Country Club • • Ceremony Musicians: Rosewood Ensemble • Reception Musicians: Arvell & Company • Hair & Makeup: Daniellestyle • Transportation: Best Transportation & St. Louis Trolley • Cake: Sugaree Baking Company • Rentals: Premier Rentals, Connie Duglin Linens, Party Arts • Photobooth: Photobooth STL • Event Décor: Exclusive Events Day of Paper: Paper Patch, Paper + Love, Zazzle

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Real Moments Libby Bawden & Marc Goldstein December 7, 2013 Photographed by joel marion Photography

Their fathers grew up together, so they have known each other their entire lives. They ran into each other at a Cardinals playoff game after not seeing each other for over a year.

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Marc took Libby on a trip to Paris and surprised her by having planned a day to look at engagement ring designs. After they had chosen a style, he had the ring made by a family friend. Later, Marc took Libby out for a romantic evening and proposed at the place of their first date. NUMBER OF GUESTS 219 WEDDING COLORS Black and white HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT During our trip in Paris we loved eating French macarons. We asked Chouquette Patisserie if they could create metallic macarons for the base of the table seating assignments for our guests. WEDDING favorS Hotel gift bags for out of town guests included local St. Louis treats including Bissinger’s Chocolates, Billy Goat Chip Company Kickers, Schlafly Beer, and Dad’s Cookie Company cookies. FIRST DANCE “A Kiss to Build a Dream On,” Louis Armstrong BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT The first look GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT At the Ceremony, the moment I saw Libby about to walk down the aisle with her father, I was floored. She looked so beautiful and I couldn’t believe how lucky I was to be marrying her. occupations: Libby is a developmental dditor and Marc is an Attorney HONEYMOON Nevis, West Indies RESIDE Clayton, Missouri adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Hire a wedding planner. There were so many situations during the planning process where having someone with experience in event planning and design leading the effort helped us tremendously.

HOW THEY MET

Wedding consultant: Lacy Branch Events • Florist: Sisters Floral Design Studio • Bride’s dress: Enzoani, Maiden Voyage Bridal Groom’s attire: Armani Collection, Saks Fifth Avenue • Bride’s makeup: Beauty by Broxie • Hair: St. Louis Bridal Hair & Makeup Wedding location and reception venue: Missouri History Museum • Caterer: Butler’s Pantry • Cake: Sarah’s Cake Shop Macarons: La Patisserie Chouquette • Groom’s cake: The Cakery Bakery • band: Galaxy • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events • Paper goods: Two Blue Doors • Transportation: JED Limousine and St. Louis Carriage Co. • Videographer: Cineastfilms

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5/29/14 3:15:43 PM

Real Moments Elissa Clark & Sarah Famell October 6, 2013 Photographed by simpli Photography

HOW THEY MET Through a mutual friend in Nashville, TN. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Elissa proposed while the couple was taking a stroll through Greenwich Village in Lower Manhattan in June. NUMBER OF GUESTS 130 WEDDING COLORS Grey, yellow, and pale pink HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT All of the decorations and centerpieces were handmade and designed by the couple and their close friend. Sarah and Elissa wrote their vows. wedding favors Homemade tomato jam made by Sarah and birdseed ornaments FIRST DANCE “I Don’t Love You Much Do I?” by Emmylou Harris and Guy Clark elissa's MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT The flash mob!

Sarah surprised me on the dance floor with a flash mob dancing to “If I Had You” by Adam Lambert. Sarah’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT The first look.

It was so exciting taking the elevator to the roof of the City Museum where Elissa was waiting for me. I loved having a couple of moments away from the chaos for just me and her. HONEYMOON Asheville, NC occupations Elissa is a Supply Planner at ConAgra Foods and part-time MBA student at Washington University. Sarah is a PRN Occupational Therapist and yoga/fitness instructor. reside St. Louis City adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Decide on a few things that are important to you and make sure they get done. You can’t do everything so you might as well do a couple things very well.

Florist: The bouquets and boutonnieres were made out of paper by Sarah • Sarah’s dress: a vintage 1950's prom dress from Vintage Vortex on Etsy • Elissa’s attire: Suit, J. Crew & Brooks Brothers; Bowtie, Mo’s Bows on Etsy • Sarah’s and bridesmaid's hair & makeup: Medusa’s Salon • Bridesmaid dresses: Chose their own • Wedding location and reception venue: City Museum • Caterer and linens: Hollyberry Catering • Desserts: Pint Size Bakery • DJ: Anna Zachritz

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Real Moments Erica Tinzwann & John Ly February 14, 2014 Photographed by cindy lee Photography

They originally met at a wedding (which took place at the Chase Park Plaza) back in 2004. We were friends at first and later dated.

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED John had coordinated with all of my friends to “sporadically” come to Saint Louis one weekend in July. I thought nothing of the fact since John was actually out of town this particular weekend.

On Sunday when the weekend was over and all the friends left, John came home. We decided to meet my sister and nephew at Forest Park. Little did I know, my sister was with us because she was going to photograph the moment.

When we got to the grand basin, John and I walked over to the water’s edge and that was the moment he asked. My sister whipped out her camera and was able to get pictures! After he popped the question, we continued walking along the water’s edge and I was even more surprised when all of our friends popped out from behind a bridge, exclaiming “Congratulations!” NUMBER OF GUESTS 180 WEDDING COLORS Lavender and grey HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT The invitations included a card written in Chinese for the extended family. The personalized m&m’s came wrapped in a hand decorated pillow box. The escort cards were handmade, hanging from a handmade chalkboard sign. FIRST DANCE John Legend’s “All of Me”BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT The first look–and dinner! HONEYMOON Curacao RESIDE Shrewsbury, MO adVICE FOR BRIDESTO-BE Remember that the day is about you, and don’t hesitate to ask for help.

HOW THEY MET

Florist: Soulard Florist • Bride’s dress: Allure Bridal, The Ultimate Bride • Groom’s attire: Joseph A Bank • Bridesmaid dresses: Little Ruffles Bridal, an Etsy Shop • Wedding location and Reception venue: Palladium Saint Louis • Caterer: Butler’s Pantry Cake: Sarah’s Cake Shop • DJ: Crucial Entertainment • Specialty lighting, décor and linens: Palladium Saint Louis • Paper goods: Beyond the Paper, an Etsy shop • Videographer: Anthony Volkman Photography

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Real Moments Sarah Mogelnicki & Jack McKenna November 13, 2013 Photographed by amy meyerott Photography

HOW THEY MET They met in 1st grade at Our Lady of Loretto school and started dating during sophmore year of high school at Trinty Catholic High. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED We got engaged in june 2012 on the beach of Gulf Shores Alabama. Jack wrote “Sara... Marry me?” in the sand and all of our family and friends were there to witness the special moment. NUMBER OF GUESTS 320 WEDDING COLORS Gray and moss green HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT The Bride made all of the centerpieces the menu Chicken and roast beef, mashed potatos, pasta con brocoli, green beans, and salad FIRST DANCE “Collide” by Howie Day BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

When my dad met me in the back of the church and grabbed my hand before we walked down the aisle. GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT When all the groomsmen picked him up on the dance floor and danced around with him. HONEYMOON Playa Del Carmon, Mexico RESIDE Florissant, MO occupations Jack is a mechanical engineer at Roeslein and Sarah is a hair stylist at American Image Salon and Spa. adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Don’t stress over the little things. Relax and enjoy your day.

Wedding Consultant: A Bride's Ally • Florist: SS Wedding Designs • Brides Dress: Simply Elegant Bridal • Grooms attire: Mens Wearhouse • Bridesmaids dresses: Dessy, Simply Elegant Bridal • Wedding lOcation: St. Anthony of Padua Church • Reception venue: The Cedars • Cake: Made by Lia • Dj: Andy Koerper with LERGIC Productions • Photobooth: Celebrate Photo Booth • Transportation: St. Louis Trolly and Carriage Co. • Videographer: Mick O'Hare

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Real Moments Kellie Lange & Tanner Boyd November 30, 2013 Photographed by susan jackson Photography

They went to the same High School. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Tanner surprised Kellie by unexpectedly showing up to her parent’s house with her whole family there and proposed on the front lawn. NUMBER OF GUESTS 190 WEDDING COLORS Gray and purple WEDDING favors In place of wedding favors they made a donation to Huntington’s disease research at Washington University. the menu A buffet-style dinner with beef tenderloin, stuffed chicken, three cheese potato bake, roasted vegetables, and bread. HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT They booked their reception at a winery, as well as having wine tasting. Lange Estate Winery and Boyd Family Vineyard sent corks featuring the Bride and Groom’s last names, which were made into name card and table number holders. FIRST DANCE “Into the Mystic” by Van Morrison BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Celebrating with all of our friends and family at the reception.GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Kellie surprised Tanner with a Mizzou-themed groom’s cake. HONEYMOON They are going on a delayed honeymoon to Italy. occupations Kellie is in sales and Tanner is in advertising. RESIDE Downtown St. Louis adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE The wedding day goes by so fast, so make sure you take time out to soak in as much as you can and enjoy the day.

HOW THEY MET

Wedding consultant: Dishy Events • Florist: Connie Cissell • Bride’s dress: Pronovias, Amore • Groom’s attire: Vera Wang, Men’s Wearhouse • Bride’s hair & makeup: Hair, Danielle Young; makeup, Danielle Style • Bridesmaid dresses: Bill Levkoff, Amore Reception venue: The Inn At Hermannhof in Festhalle • Caterer: The Finishing Touch by Ginger • Cake: J. Noto Bakery • DJ: Millennium Productions • Specialty lighting and décor: Millennium Productions • Linens: BBJ Linen • Paper goods: M. Haley Design Music: Keough String Quartet • Transportation: Hermann Trolley • Videographer: Dreams Renewed

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FALL/WINTER 2014 • www.bridestl.com

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Real Moments Katie Davis & Brian Billmeier July 20, 2013 Photographed by jon koch Photography

HOW THEY MET Brian moved from Ireland to Chicago and met Katie through friends. They spent two years traveling back and forth from Pittsburgh to St. Louis to see each other.

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED After over two years of dating long distance, Brian decided that he wanted to ask Katie to marry him. Brian started conspiring with Katie’s best friend Cassie to find out what Katie wanted and designed a beautiful ring he thought would be perfect for her. Brian proposed at the top of Art Hill in Forest Park while they were on a walk with Katie's yellow lab Payton. NUMBER OF GUESTS 200 WEDDING COLORS Navy, coral, silver gray HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT The Bride wore a Navajo squash blossom necklace for the ceremony. wedding favors Potted Succulents (also doubled as place cards) FIRST DANCE “West Wind Blows” by Green River Ordinance BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Walking into the reception as husband and wife seeing all of my family and friends. The room felt so inviting and warm, and looked even more perfect than I imagined. grOOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Listening to the speeches from my dad, the best men, and matron of honor. This was our opportunity to finally sit back and relax with our loved ones. Brian’s best men also made us laugh and cry through their amazing storytelling and use of props.

HONEYMOON Lucerne, Switzerland and Lake Como/Florence, Italy RESIDE adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Enjoy the day! It goes by so fast so be sure to stop and take in each moment!

Wedding consultant: Cosmopolitan Events • Florist: Wildflowers • Bride’s dress: Badgley Mischka, Berrybridge Bridal • Groom’s attire: Stallone’s • Bride’s and bridesmaid's hair & makeup: Danielle Style • Bridesmaid dresses: Coren Moore, Berrybridge Wedding location: Webster Groves Presbyterian Church • Reception venue: Forest Park Visitor’s Center, The Trolley Room • Caterer: Catering St. Louis • Cake: Encore Bakery • Music: Griffin and the Gargoyles (reception); Rosewood Ensemble (ceremony) • Rentals: Wood planked tables from Chicago Farm Tables (Chicago, IL); all other rentals were coordinated through Wildflowers and Catering St. Louis • Paper goods: Cheree Berry • Transportation: Best Transportation

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Real Moments Amy Vavere & Jess Arndorfer November 9, 2014 Photographed by abbie takEs pictures

At Forest Park in 2003, through mutual friends from rugby and flag football HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED While on vacation in Cozumel, they had just finished snorkeling, and Amy kept asking Jess—who had just settled into her beach chair with her Kindle and a glass of wine—to come look at some "shells." When Jess finally acquiesced, she found Amy pointing instead to two rings in the sand. NUMBER OF GUESTS 150 WEDDING COLORS Pumpkin and dark teal HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT Guests received baskets at their hotel when they checked in with local beers, snacks and treats, and a note from the couple with suggestions on what to do in St. Louis. wedding favors A Memphis style bbq spice rub menu There were 14 different desserts— one at each table. Guests had a list on the back of their menu as to what dessert was at which table, and when dessert was announced, they got up and picked their own, giving them a fun way to mingle. FIRST DANCE “Divide Me”

by Kalai BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT For Jess, saying her vows to Amy in front of her family and friends.

For Amy, the entire weekend was an amazing expression of love. occupations Jess is a Senior Director of Lead Generation, Gift Planning at ALSAC/ St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and Amy is Head Radiochemist at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital HONEYMOON Smoky Mountains RESIDE Memphis, TN adVICE FOR BRIDES-TOBE Your wedding day flies by—cherish every minute of it. And when people offer to help, take them up on it!

HOW THEY MET

Wedding consultant: Proposing Dreams • Florist: The Crimson Petal • Brides dresses: David’s Bridal • Bride’s and Bridesmaids' hair & makeup: Jon Napoli • Bridesmaid dresses: chose their own • Wedding location: First Unitarian Church of St. Louis Reception venue: Forest Park Visitor Center • Caterer: Catering St. Louis Cake: Hank’s Cheesecakes and Sugaree Baking Company music: Rockstar DJs (ceremony and reception) • Paper goods: Magnetstreet and homemade • Transportation: Best Transportation and St. Louis Trolley Co.

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Real Moments Katie Hostler & Jared Fischer March 15, 2014 Photographed by your story by jeremy

Match.com HOW THEY planned a trip to Europe in May 2013 that included stops in Prague, Vienna and Barcelona.

Jared proposed to Katie in a gondola in Barcelona near Montjuïc Castle.

NUMBER OF GUESTS 175 WEDDING COLORS Gray and ivory HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT Their friend performed an hour of music on guitar for the cocktail hour. Jared recorded a song that he wrote for Katie and played it during the reception as a surprise. the menu Tray passed appetizers: Maryland blue crab cakes, ground sirloin mini-burgers, and chicken parmesan meatballs; Entree: Herb d’Provence chicken with barley scallion risotto and steamed asparagus FIRST DANCE The Bride’s father played an acoustic version of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You.” HOW THEY MET

GOT ENGAGED They

BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

First dance with her husband while her dad played acoustic guitar GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT When he saw Katie in her dress for the first time. occupations Katie is a physician’s assistant at BJC; Jared is an internal auditor at Graybar Electric Company, Inc. HONEYMOON Secrets Maroma resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico RESIDE St. Louis adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE The little things that don’t go exactly as planned are not what matters on your wedding day. Just keep smiling and be happy.

Florist: Les Bouquets • Bride’s dress: Allure Couture, Amore • Groom’s attire: Calvin Klein, Men’s Wearhouse • Bride’s and Bridesmaids' hair & makeup: Danielle Style • Bridesmaid dresses: Bill Levkoff, Amore • Wedding location: Graham Chapel, Washington University • Reception venue and Caterer: Moulin Events • Cake: La Bonne Bouche • DJ and Specialty lighting and décor: Millennium Productions • Transportation: A Perfect Touch Limo

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Real Moments Kathleen Jones & Chris Marischen December 14, 2013 Photographed by stephen seebeck

At Mizzou—their sorority and fraternity were matched up for Greek week HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED While on vacation with Chris’ family, he proposed to Kathleen. Her parents had been hiding at the resort the entire day. NUMBER OF GUESTS 220 WEDDING COLORS Black, white, gold, gray-mint, blush, ivory HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT They have donut lovers in their family so they hired Donut Man Stan to fry mini donuts for the guests all night. wedding favors A donation to the American Cancer Society in honor of Grandparents and closest friends. There were also to go bags for the donuts. FIRST DANCE “I Have and Always Will” by Dave Barnes BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Watching our same day bridal video edit with all of our guests—the day was a blur, so reliving it was priceless! GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Walking through the Central Library for pictures, just the two of us. HONEYMOON Palm Island in the Grenadines occupations The Bride is a wedding planner at Cosmopolitan Events and the Groom owns an insurance company in Ladue. RESIDE Richmond Heights, MO adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Smile! Even if something seems a little overwhelming, a smile becomes contagious and immediately changes the feeling of the room.

HOW THEY MET

Wedding consultant: Cosmopolitan Events • Florist: Botanicals Design Studio • Bride’s dress: Olia Zavozina, Simply Elegant Bridal Groom’s attire: Stallone’s Formal Wear • Bride’s and bridesmaids' hair & makeup: Danielle Style • Bridesmaid dresses: Dessy, Bella Bridesmaid • Wedding location: Shrine of St. Joseph Catholic Church • Reception venue: The Franklin Room • Cake: Sarah’s Cake Shop Band: Diamond Dave Trio • Specialty lighting and décor: St. Louis Audio Visual • Linens and rentals: Weinhardt Party Rentals Paper goods: Paper Tangent • Transportation: Best Transportation • Videographer: Brian Gaadt Productions

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Real Moments Chelsea Volkmar & Chris Clark November 28, 2013 Photographed by switzerfilm

Chris was a friend of Chelsea’s Brother. They and a group of friends met up for the Italian Fest and that was the beginning of the sparks flying. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED During the 2011-2012 school year, Clark and Chelsea had decided that they wanted to move in together and get married. He proposed on the night before the start of the school year. NUMBER OF GUESTS 240 WEDDING COLORS Champagne, olive, black & white HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT During the ceremony, Chelsea’s stepdad Dale joined Chelsea and her father halfway down the aisle and all three of them walked down the remainder of the aisle together. wedding favors Bottles of Ski doubled as place card holders at the table.

FIRST DANCE “Your Everything” by Keith Urban BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Standing in the rain under an umbrella getting married…and looking out and seeing guests smile, cry and laugh with us all while many had towels over their heads in an attempt to stay dry. groom’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT The reveal of the reception HONEYMOON Alaskan cruise occupations The Bride is a Special Education Teacher in Highland, IL; the Groom works at Waste Water in Collinsville, IL RESIDE Collinsville, IL adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Remember to eat, not just on the day, but during the week of your wedding!

HOW THEY MET

Wedding consultant: Lacy Branch Events • Florist: Belli Fiori • Bride’s dress: Enzoani Blue, Simply Elegant Bridal Groom’s attire: Jim’s Formal Wear, Trenton, IL • Bridesmaid dresses: Belsoie, Simply Elegant Bridal • Wedding location and reception venue: Lodge of the Four Seasons, Lake of the Ozarks • Cake: Fancy That Cake, Jackson, MO • DJ: Elite Lighting & Sounds, Lake of the Ozarks, MO • Photobooth: LeLe Photography • Videographer: Switzerfilm

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FALL/WINTER 2014 • www.bridestl.com

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Real Moments Alicia Bennett & Tony Malik December 31, 2013 Photographed by white klump Photography

On a freezing cold Chicago night outside of a bar. Alicia was talking to her sister about relationship advice when Tony interrupted her, and they began talking. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Tony surprised Alicia by sprinkling rose petals on the floor and waiting in the kitchen with flowers, a bottle of wine and a hand-written letter. As Tony bent to get down on one knee, Alicia started crying and said yes.

NUMBER OF GUESTS 120 WEDDING COLORS Black, white and eggplant purple HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT The table décor incorporated black textured linens, mulberry linens, silver dot chargers, varying heights of white flower centerpieces, silver tinsel drink stirrers, glitter bites with silver cups, and menu cards on shimmer cardstock. wedding favors Vanilla glitter bites from Sarah’s Cake Shop FIRST DANCE “You are the best thing” by Ray LaMontagne BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT When all of our friends and family gathered on the dance floor for the countdown to midnight. It was absolutely amazing to have all of the people we love most in the world gathered in one room to celebrate with us. Even my 88 year-old grandparents stayed up to ring in the New Year with us!

HONEYMOON Rome, Florence and Paris occupations Alicia is in institutional equity sales at Raymond James and Tony works in Advertising at FCB Chicago RESIDE Chicago, IL HOW THEY MET

Wedding consultant: St. Louis Wedding Consultants • Florist: Sisters Floral Design • Bride’s dress: Vera Wang • Groom’s attire: Black by Vera Wang, Men’s Wearhouse • Bride’s hair & makeup: Danielle Style • Bridesmaid dresses: Monique Lhuilier, Bella Bridesmaid • Wedding location: St. Mary Magdalen • Reception venue: Statler Ballroom at the Renaissance Grand • Cake: The Cakery DJ: Millennium Productions • Linens: BBJ Linens • Paper goods: M. Haley Designs • Transportation: Best Transportation

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Real Moments Heather Brosch & Tim McManemy October 19, 2013 Photographed by abbie takes pictures

HOW THEY MET Through mutual friends while attending Saint Louis University HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Tim proposed in Chicago at the Signature Room on the 95th floor of the Hancock Building NUMBER OF GUESTS 110 WEDDING COLORS Light pink, grey, ivory HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT The Bride made several of the decorations (the card box, ring bearer sign, flower vases for the bar area) incorporating polka dots, which she loves. She also used Tim’s late grandmother’s sugar cookie recipe to make their wedding favors. FIRST DANCE “I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Being pronounced Mr. and Mrs. McManemy and walking down the aisle for the recessional. The emotions of the day and the reality that we were finally husband and wife really sunk in at that moment. GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Midway through the reception, the music stopped and the DJ introduced the “number 1 Cardinals fan.” The front doors of the Abbey swung open, and there was Fredbird, two custom Cardinals jerseys in hand.

He high-fived his way through the guests and joined us on the dance floor. occupations Heather is a neuropsychometrist and Tim is a software developer HONEYMOON Riviera Maya, Mexico RESIDE St. Louis adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Don’t ask for too many opinions! We made every decision together, without asking for too much input from other people. In the end, the day should be exactly what the couple wants, not what your friends and family want. Also, hire a wedding planner!

Wedding consultant: Kate & Company • Florist: Artistry Florist • Bride’s dress: Casablanca Bridal, Clarice’s Bridal • Groom’s attire: Allure Men, Savvi Formalwear • Bride’s hair & makeup: Hair: Headliners Salon, Fenton, MO; Makeup: Claire Rosenthal and Lindsay Mills • Bridesmaid dresses: Morilee, Clarice’s Bridal • Wedding location and reception venue: The 9th Street Abbey Caterer: Patty Long Catering • Cake: Sarah’s Cake Shop • Reception music: Rockstar DJs • Linens: The 9th Street Abbey • Paper goods: M. Haley Design • Transportation: GEM Transportation • Videographer: Analogue Films

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6/16/14 4:17:39 PM

Real Moments Rob Schaefer & Lance Howley March 9, 2014 Photographed by robert george Photography & joel marion photography

On Match.com HOW Lance took Rob to a French Restaurant in Saugatuck, Michigan. As they sat in front of the fireplace after eating, the waitress sat a tiny bear in front of Rob. The bear wore a shirt that said, “Someone in Michigan loves me.” On the paw of the bear was the wedding ring and Lance asked Rob to marry him. NUMBER OF GUESTS 120 WEDDING COLORS Apricot, emerald, butterscotch HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT The Howleys are of Irish decent and can trace their linage back to Ireland. The couple chose emerald green to honor their family heritage. Rob and Lance stood on the Royal Coat of Arms during their ceremony and it was displayed on their wedding program. A musician played 16th century English music selections on a hammered dulcimer during the ceremony. wedding favors British Phone Booth Tea Tins HOW THEY Met

THEY GOT ENGAGED

grOOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

Rob: Seeing all the ladies in their hats and fascinators was overwhelming and made me so happy. Lance: Hearing my brother Andrew and our friends speak during the ceremony and watching everyone have such a wonderful time. occupations Rob is Vice President of Steven Becker Fine Dining/Coronado Ballroom and Lance is an independent CPA RESIDE St. Louis Hills advice for brides and grooms to be Don’t be afraid to have something remarkable and different that suits you both. Keep your theme elements pure and consistent. Have the very finest of what you can afford or don’t have it at all.

Wedding consultant: Rob Schaefer • Florist: Artistry Florist • Groom Rob’s Suit: Dolce and Gabbana • Groom Lance’s Suit: Claiborne • Wedding and reception venue: Coronado Ballroom • Caterer and cake: Steven Becker Fine Dining • Specialty Lighting and Décor: Millennium Productions • Linens and Chairs: Sitting Pretty/Party Arts • Bridal Party Gifts: Burberry Cologne and Heyland & Whittle English Candles • Music: Jazz Piano provided by Mike Carosello of Spectrum Band; Antique Hammered Dulcimer Music by Rick Thum • Rentals: Vintage London Phone Booth from Parties and Props Transportation: Best Transportation

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FALL/WINTER 2014 • www.bridestl.com

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Real Moments Michelle St. Onge & Jeffrey Lawlor October 26, 2013 Photographed by ryan gladstone Photography

HOW THEY MET Michelle and Jeff both worked for her dad’s business and met for the first time in 2010 when they both worked at the same nutritional seminar.

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED While they took her dog a for a walk in a pretty wooded area overlooking the Mississippi River, Jeff was behind Michelle and said to the dog, “Hey Jojo, do you think your mom would marry me?” At first I thought it was a joke but then it hit me that he probably wouldn’t joke about something as serious as marriage. Sure enough, when I turned around Jeff was down on one knee holding up a ring.

NUMBER OF GUESTS 165 WEDDING COLORS Gold, navy & fall colors HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

Michelle surprised Jeff with a groom’s cake decorated with their chiropractic office’s logo. During the ceremony, Michelle’s Uncle Bill sang “The Wedding Song” while playing a 12-string guitar.

He had sung the same song at Michelle’s parents’ wedding 38 years earlier in 1975. FIRST DANCE “The Prayer” by Andrea Bocelli & Celine Dion BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT I will never forget the look on Jeff’s face when I turned the corner walking down the aisle. He was crying and it was so sweet.

GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

My first dance with Michelle.occupations Jeff and Michelle own Lawlor Chiropractic in Weldon Spring, MO. Jeff is a chiropractor & Michelle is a nutritionist. HONEYMOON Montego Bay, Jamaica RESIDE St. Charles adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Prepare as best you can before your wedding so that when the day comes, you can “let it all go” and feel good about the effort you put forth.

Wedding consultant: Simply & Forever • Florist: Les Bouquets • Bride’s dress: Justin Alexander, Maiden Voyage • Groom’s attire: Saavi Formalwear • Bride’s Makeup: Holly Speakes, ProColour Salon • Bridesmaid dresses: Ann Taylor Bridal • Wedding location: Jewel Box, Forest Park • Reception venue: Sheraton St. Louis City Center, City View Ballroom • Cake: Mary Reed • dj: CJ’s DJ’s Paper goods: Ten Four Paper (Invitations/Escort cards); MagnetStreet (Programs, Menu, Favor tags) •Transportation: Llywelyn’s Pub Trolley • Videographer: LoveBird Studios

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Real Moments Alecia Hoyt & Timothy Herschbach May 15, 2014 Photographed by zettl photography

Online HOW THEY had an awesome day date that ended with us visiting the zoo. At the zoo, in the butterfly house, Tim got down on one knee and asked me to marry him (along with a lot of other sweet words). He pre-arranged with our photographers to be there, so we have the moment captured forever!

NUMBER OF GUESTS 25 the menu Fish chowder (they caught the fish on a group deep sea fishing trip!), ceviche, stuffed mushrooms, fromage, 11 year old Willet family reserve bourbon. HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT They chose to have an intimate destination wedding with their closest friends and family on the Oregon Coast. They rented a beach mansion large enough for all of their guests to stay in for the week. They spent the week together fishing, touring lighthouses and whale watching. FIRST DANCE “Breath Me” by Sia BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Tossing our ‘messages in a bottle’ into the ocean. We had our guests write us notes of love and advice; they each wrote two copies and placed them in bottles during the ceremony. We kept one bottle to be opened on our 9 year anniversary (with a bottle of 9 year Willett Family Estate Bourbon), and we sealed and threw the other bottle into the ocean. GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT The ceremony being crashed multiple times: first by grey whales coming to the surface about 40 feet from the shore, and then again 10 minutes later by a pair of seals watching us from the surf for the majority of the remaining ceremony. I guess they knew we were serving fish! occupations Alecia is a photographer at XOXO Alice; Timothy is a chemical engineering student. reside Saint Louis HOW THEY MET

GOT ENGAGED We

Florist: Lei by The Hawaiian Lei Company • Bride’s dress: Claire Pettibone • Groom’s attire: Logan tartan kilt with an argyll jacket

by MacGregor & Macduff • Bride’s hair & makeup: Holly Speakes, ProColour Salon • Wedding location and reception venue: Gleneden Beach, Oregon • Caterer: The Bride’s mom • Cake: Holly Speakes • Specialty lighting and décor: Goodwill! They bought the pillows (20 unique designs) for people to sit on during the ceremony and reception at a local goodwill. They also bought unique champagne glasses for each guest. They found beautiful decanter bottles to store keepsakes for the wedding, including sand, water, and handwritten notes from guests.

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Real Moments Lauren Burchard & Paul Richards June 8, 2013 Photographed by stephen seebeck Photography

HOW THEY MET They met on the back of a ship (The MV Explorer) that was about to travel to 13 global destinations.

The first port was Cadiz, Spain where they had their first date. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED After traveling around the world together we knew we wanted to spend the rest of our lives with each other. NUMBER OF GUESTS 85 WEDDING COLORS Soft pink, creams, and khaki HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT

Lauren realized that the perfect venue was the backyard of her parents’ house.

Paul proposed to Lauren under the same pergola they were married under. A harpist at the ceremony played Lauren’s favorite song “Colorado,” by the band Lotus. Lauren, who did ballet for nearly a decade, wore white ballet slippers.

Lauren’s parents surprised the Bride and Groom with a horse carriage ride that took them away after the reception. wedding favors chocolate covered eggs in a nest wrapped in tulle. FIRST DANCE “Romeo and Juliet” by Dire Straits BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT When my husband performed “Sweet Thing” by Keith Urban on his guitar with the band. GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT When I saw that my Bride-to-be had hand stitched “I Love you” on the inside of my shirt collar. HONEYMOON Ireland occupations Lauren is a kitchen and bath designer and Paul is an Ecommerce entrepreneur RESIDE West Chester, PA adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Enjoy every minute of the day. It goes by so quickly.

Florist: Fresh Art • Bride’s dress: Mari Lee by Madeline Gardner, In White (Lancaster, PA) • Groom’s attire: Jos A Bank Bridesmaid dresses: J. Crew Bridal Collection • Reception venue: The Bride’s parents’ backyard • Caterer: Pairings Cateringw Cake: Sugaree Baking Company • Paper goods: WrittenInDetail, Etsy • Videographer: Kristoper Hambas

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Real Moments Elizabeth Soucy & Justin Rancour April 26, 2014 Photographed by clary photo

HOW THEY MET Mutual friends introduced them when both were home for the holidays while attending different universities. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Justin fabricated a story involving dinner with couples from work. He had secretly invited their families to celebrate, who were hiding out of sight as they entered the restaurant. After he dropped to one knee and proposed, everyone gathered for a wonderful meal. NUMBER OF GUESTS 220 WEDDING COLORS Evening blue, peach, cream, silver HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT They created personalized touches throughout the day, including the St. Louis-themed welcome boxes that greeted each traveler at the hotel, homemade chocolates that served as favors and place cards for guests, and family wedding photos displayed in the cocktail space. FIRST DANCE “All That I See” by The Alternate Routes BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Our wedding send-off. We concluded our reception with a carriage ride through Forest Park. Having time to relax and recap the night together was the perfect ending to a perfect day. GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Our first dance.

Elizabeth and I had been practicing for weeks. As we walked out onto the floor with all eyes on us, we began to effortlessly move around together. Everything was going wonderfully, but the song seemed to be going much longer than we had intended. Then we got to the guitar solo… that wasn’t supposed to be there. I looked at Elizabeth, shrugged my shoulders, and said “Oh well”, and she did the same. Our dance continued and no one was the wiser. HONEYMOON St. Lucia occupations Elizabeth is a physician and Justin is a mechanical engineer RESIDE Kirkwood, MO

Florist: Twisted Willow • Bride’s dress: Jenny Packham, Town and Country Bridal Boutique • Groom’s attire: Calvin Klein, Men’s Wearhouse • Bride’s and bridesmaids' hair & makeup: Hair: Pixies Hair Design; Makeup: Makeup Artistry by A & C • Bridesmaid dresses: Jenny Yoo, Bella Bridesmaid • Wedding location: The Shrine of St. Joseph • Reception venue: The Chase Park Plaza, Zodiac room (cocktail hour); Starlight room (reception) • Caterer and cake: The Chase Park Plaza • music: The Rosewood Ensemble (ceremony); Griffin and the Gargoyles (reception) • Linens: BBJ Linens • Paper goods: Vellum • Photobooth: Fish Eye Fun Videographer: Sweet Tea Media

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Real Moments Caty Grzymajlo & Shawn Davis May 17, 2014 Photographed by kelly park Photography

They met at a blackjack table in Las Vegas. A mutual friend of the couple invited Shawn to join her annual trip to Vegas, thinking that the two could possibly be a good match.

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED At the end of a day exploring wineries in Napa, CA, Shawn decided that it would be the perfect moment to propose. He walked up behind Caty, and as she turned around, he had dropped down on one knee. NUMBER OF GUESTS 70 WEDDING COLORS Yellow and gray HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT As a nod to their Napa engagement, they had guests sign a Jaroboam size bottle of wine that the couple plans on sharing with their good friends at their 5-year wedding anniversary. The plan is to have friends sign another bottle then for the next 5 years. The weekend the couple first met, they saw Calvin Harris DJ-ing at XS night club in Vegas and “Feel so Close” became their song. As Caty and Shawn walked up the aisle for the first time as husband and wife, their guitarist played an acoustic version of the song he created. FIRST DANCE “All of Me” by John Legend BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT The first is seeing Shawn for the first time. The second was our vows.

HOW THEY MET

GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

Seeing Caty for the first time. I turned around and saw the most beautiful bride, and I knew I was the luckiest man on earth. HONEYMOON Malaysia occupations Caty is a Director of Consumer Insights at Anheuser Busch Inbev and Shawn is a Sr. Director of Clinical Solutions at Express Scripts RESIDE Central West End

Florist: Artistry • Bride’s dress: Blush by Jim Helm; Twirl Bridal Boutique, Lexington, KY • Groom’s attire: OM Custom Tailors (Hong Kong) • Wedding location and reception venue: Four Seasons, St. Louis • Ceremony Music: Ryan Hebel, Worship Director at The Gathering • Caterer and cake: Four Seasons, St. Louis • DJ: Now That’s a DJ • Paper goods: Invitations by Julie Hanan Designs, Etsy

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Real Moments Kelsey Trankler & Iliya Koreshev December 7, 2013 Photographed by robert george studio

HOW THEY MET In 2004, Kelsey and Iliya had an audition in Vancouver, Canada to be paired up as Ice Dance partners, and both sets of coaches agreed that they were the perfect match for one another. They took to the ice and it all started from there. HoW THEY GOT ENGAGED Iliya planned a romantic weekend get away. They spent the day exploring the Emerald City and visiting with friends. That evening, Iliya proposed with a beautiful engagement ring at the Sorrento Hotel. NUMBER OF GUESTS 140 WEDDING COLORS White, silver and blue HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT They had a fire and ice theme, with a Russian ice vodka bar, ice vase centerpieces, ostrich feather coats and fur boots for guests to wear by the outdoor fire pits, and Christmas ornaments for guests to sign and hang on a tree. wedding favors Crate and Barrel snow ball candles FIRST DANCE “I Can't Help Falling In Love With You” by Elvis BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT The beautiful snowfall that started the night of our rehearsal dinner and continued through our wedding day! GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT Seeing our ice skates frozen in the center of the ice bar! These were the skates that we wore when we auditioned together 10 years earlier at the ages 15 & 19. occupations Kelsey is a figure skating coach and Iliya is a software engineer HONEYMOON Coronado Island, San Diego, CA RESIDE San Francisco adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE Don’t put off until tomorrow what can be done today! news to share since your wedding

Iliya and Kelsey are excited to announce that they are expecting their first child in the Fall.

Wedding consultant: Bride’s Vision Weddings and Events • Florist: Walter Knoll • Bride’s dress: Saint Louis Custom Collection, Maiden Voyage • Groom’s attire: Savvi Formal Wear • Bride’s and bridesmaids' hair & makeup: Chase Salon • Bridesmaid dresses: Dessy, Weddingtonway • Wedding location: Cathedral Basilica • Reception venue and cake: Chase Park Plaza Hotel music: Matt Walch singing Big Band Standards; Linda Kuhnert on the baby grand piano • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events • Linens: Sitting Pretty • Rentals: The Aries Company • Paper goods: Vellum • Ice Sculpture: Ice Cuisine • Transportation: Best Transportation and Jed Limo • Videographer: TawTac Productions

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Real Moments Janie Sciacca & Matt Mannebach October 5, 2013 Photographed by white klump Photography

They met briefly through mutual friends in high school and reconnected after college through a chance meeting at a softball game in Forest Park. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED When they were dating, Matt lived in Milwaukee, and Janie lived in St. Louis.

They spent an entire year commuting back and forth between the cities every weekend. He proposed with his mother’s engagement ring during one of their road trips between cities. NUMBER OF GUESTS 200 WEDDING COLORS Blush pink, coral, ivory, smoke grey HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT Guests danced the Hora in honor of Janie’s grandmother, who passed away two weeks prior to the wedding. Janie also wore her grandmother’s beaded headpiece after finding it deep inside a closet at the last minute. FIRST DANCE You are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne HOW THEY MET

BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

Our private “first look” before the ceremony. I had butterflies up until that moment! It rained that day too, but we took it in stride! GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT At the reception, Matt took off his ring to show some friends the inscription (“You are my first home run”, a reference to our first big date, Game six of the 2012 World Series). Of course, he accidentally dropped the ring and enlisted numerous guests to search the ground. Thirty minutes later, someone finally found it.

HONEYMOON Kauai, Hawaii RESIDE Tucson, AZ adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE It takes a lot of work to plan a large wedding. Try to let the little things go and remember to appreciate the moment!

Wedding consultant: Kate and Company • Florist: The Silver Garden • Bride’s dress: Val Stefani, The Wedding Gallery • Groom’s attire: Men’s Wearhouse • Bride’s hair & makeup: Hair: Lois Bryant, Cheveux Salon; Makeup: Sarah Capps • Bridesmaid dresses: Love Lane, Bella Bridesmaid and Town & Country Bridal Boutique • Wedding location and reception venue: The Gardens at Malmaison Caterer: The Gardens at Malmaison • Cake: Sarah’s Cake Shop • band: The Galaxy Band • Specialty lighting and décor: The Aries Company • Linens: BBJ Linens • Paper goods: M. Haley Design • ceremony music: The Dragon Duo violinists

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Real Moments Julie Vonder Haar & Mike Mattingly August 5, 2014 Photographed by hawes Photography

Mike and Julie met in 2008 the old fashioned way, in a bar.

He guessed her name on the first try.

They have been together ever since.

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Julie always wanted a monkey to give her a ring and she wanted her name in lights. Mike did both! He dressed up her best friend’s infant as a monkey and had the baby on his knee holding the ring with Christmas lights behind him spelling out “Julie will you marry me?” NUMBER OF GUESTS 50 WEDDING COLORS Blue ombre HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT In Jamaica, they had 50 guests attend the wedding, with the farthest guest flying in from China. Everyone wore white and khaki colored outfits. They had the ceremony on the beach, and aftewards, everyone went on a two hour sunset sail on a 60 foot catamaran. wedding favors A bottle of Jamaican Rum cream and a bottle of High Rise Vodka FIRST DANCE “Pieces” by Red BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT We wrote our own vows, and Mikey got very emotional while reading his. It was the most romantic moment. GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT When I saw Julie walk down the aisle. I was so filled with love, and her happiness and excitement was so beautiful. occupations Julie is a catering manager at Kemoll’s, Mike is a graphic designer at Fishers Pro Sports HONEYMOON A week in Jamaica RESIDE Florissant, MO adVICE FOR BRIDESTO-BE Do not sweat the small stuff. At the end of the day you are married to the love of your life and that’s all that matters.

HOW THEY MET

Wedding consultant: Bomb Events • Florist: Festive Atmospheres • Bride’s dress: David’s Bridal • Groom’s attire: Tommy Bahama • Bride’s hair: Salon Antebellum • Wedding location: Jewel Dunn’s River Resort, Ocho Rios, Jamaica • Reception venue: Top of the Met/Kemoll’s • Caterer: Kemoll’s • Cake: SoHa Bakery • DJ: Rockstar DJ’s • Specialty lighting and décor: Parties and Props • Linens: Sitting Pretty • Rentals: Parties and Props • Paper goods: Unique Moments • Photobooth: Top Notch Photo Booth

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sites to behold

Nine fabulous places

1

2 1 Boo Cat Club New Venue - Opening Fall 2014 Boocatclub.com 812 Union Boulevard, 63108 314.224.5521

2 Hollywood Casino New Venue Hollywoodcasinostlouis.com 777 Casino Center Drive Maryland Heights 314.770.8832

New Venue Bishopspost.com 16125 Chesterfield Parkway West Chesterfield 636.536.9404

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEATURED VENUES

3 Bishop’s Post

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sites to behold

5

4 4 Union Station Hotel New Venue Stlouisunionstationhotel.com 1820 Market Street, 63103 314.231.1234

5 Caramel Room New Venue - September 2014 Caramelroom.com 1600 North Broadway, 63102 314.615.2480

6 Lodge at Grant's Trail

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEATURED VENUES

Newly renovated Lodgeatgrantstrail.com 4398 Hoffmeister, 63125 314.638.3340

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sites to behold

7

8 7 Sappington House New Outdoor Venue Sappingtonhouse.org 1015 South Sappington Road Crestwood 314.822.8171

8 Gardens at Malmaison Newly-renovated Venue Gardensmalmaison.com 3519 St. Albans Road St. Albans, MO 63073

9 Magnolia Hotel

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEATURED VENUES.

New Venue - August 2014 Magnoliahotels.com 421 North 8th Street, 63101 314.436.9000

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2013 ST. LOUIS WEDDING AWARD RECIPIENTS FLORAL DESIGN belli fiori CAKE DESIGN The Cakery Bakery PHOTOGRAPHY Julia Noack Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Love Bird Studios DJ Millennium Productions LIVE MUSICIANS Rosewood Ensemble LIGHTING AND DECOR Millennium Productions VENUE The Promenade by Westin

And the Award Goes To...

St. Louis’ top wedding pros were honored at the fifth St. Louis Wedding Awards PHOTOGRAPHED BY ASHLEY FISHER PHOTOGRAPHY

THE FIFTH ANNUAL St. Louis Wedding Awards, sponsored by Doubletree Hotel Chesterfield, Saint Louis Bride Magazine, The Saint Louis Perfect Wedding Guide and The Knot, was held on Sunday, February 21, 2014 at the Nightclub at Ameristar.

The St. Louis Wedding Awards acknowledges and celebrates the achievements of the wedding industry professionals in the St. Louis Metropolitan area.

Awards were given in fourteen categories including Wedding of the Year where several wedding professionals received a nod for their team efforts. This year, Fred Barerra received the prestigious Wedding 94

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Professional Hall of Fame award for his longtime service and dedication to the St. Louis wedding industry.

The nomination process was open to anyone working in the St. Louis wedding industry and to qualify the entry must have occurred between January 1st and December 31st of the 2013 year in the St. Louis metropolitan area.

If you would like to nominate one (or more) of your wedding professionals, please visit (and like) the official St. Louis Wedding Awards Facebook page at facebook.com/stlouisweddingawards for rules and nomination information.

HAIR AND MAKEUP Hair By Chrissy STATIONERY DESIGN M M. Haley Design Adventures in Custom Stationery WEDDING PLANNER Lacy Branch Events SPECIALTY RENTALS Fish Eye Fun WEDDING VENDOR HALL OF FAME Fred Barerra, The Aries Company WEDDING OF THE YEAR Kuhs Farm Hollyberry Catering White Klump Photography Traube Tent BBJ Linen Artistry Florist St. Louis Wedding Consultants M. Haley Designs Millennium Productions Exclusive Events Aries St. Louis Transportation

SPECIAL THANKS As with any event, the evening would not have been successful without the contributions from the following individuals and businesses: St. Louis Bride Magazine Doubletree Chesterfield Sunshine Entertainment Group Rock Star DJ's Exclusive Events Festive Atmosphere Ashely Photo Millennium Productions The Perfect Wedding Guide The Knot Laura Firestone Stationery

FALL/WINTER 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ www.bridestl.com

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St. Louis Shopping

Dole Whip Float The Dole Plantation in Hawaii created it and a magical theme park made it famous. Now you can have both on your special day. One part pineapple soft serve and one part pineapple juice equals a very dandy refreshment! Dandy Soft Serve has machine rentals starting at just $150 per day and pineapple soft serve mix starting at $35 per bag (75 servings if 4 oz in size) and then combine with your own pineapple juice to make this delicacy. The perfect addition to any summer wedding!

Paula Collins—Your Closet’s Best Friend Do you ever open your closet and feel that you have nothing to wear, yet it is packed? Paula Collins of Your Closet's Best Friend can help you have a wardrobe that best reflects your budget, lifestyle, and body type. She will edit out what doesn't work, create outfits with what you already have, and identity any items which can round out your wardrobe.

Her honest and budget friendly approach will leave you feeling great about getting dressed! Packing for a trip? She has you covered! Visit www.yourclosetsbestfriend.com for how you can get started having a wardrobe that works for you!

Blissoma Skin Care Treat yourself and your skin to the natural goodness that is Blissoma.

No artificial beauty chemicals, colors or fragrances. All products are 100% natural and nearly the entire line is certified vegan, packed with certified organic botanicals, vitamins, essential fatty acids and skin-soothing seed

bowling ball: ©shutswis/shutterstock

oils. $12.85-48.99, 314.802.7687, blissoma.com

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Made in St. Louis

Designed to

Wedding Show Know-How Splurge-Worthy items 10 Art-Inspired Tablescapes 27 Real Weddings

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Reception Sites

Merging Homes wedding cakes $5.00 Display until Jan. 30, 2015

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St. Louis Shopping Indie Mats Here's a helpful tip for

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Satin Sashes (and more) Dress up your gown with a gorgeous, hand-crafted sash from the St. Louis motherdaughter duo of Katherine Jessica Collections.

Custom designs available, $175-400, katherinejessicacollections.com, 314.229.2900

Gifts St. Louis The Greetings from St. Louis Gift Box is the perfect “Gift to Go” full of the unique St. Louis goodies. All wrapped up and ready to go! Includes: St. Louis Popcorn Billy Goat Chips Bissinger’s Chocolate-covered fruit Bissinger’s Award Winning Gummy Pandas Bissinger’s Salt Caramels Switzer’s Licorice Dad’s 3-piece Cookies dipped in Chocolate Tums. www.GiftsStLouis.com

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Yours, His and Ours Y

By l e i s a j e n k i n s

ou have been so busy planning the wedding, dealing with the family and honeymooning, that you haven't thought about what will happen when the words "I do!" have taken you to the next season of your life. The excitement of a newlymarried life fills the air and the thought of waking up every morning next to that one true love sounds so good, but wait窶馬ow it's time to merge homes!

Have you thought about what furniture will go and what furniture will stay? How do you handle the first fight over the material things surrounding you?

You will have two sets of everything. What will you do with all of it?

Now for some real-world expert tips to put you on (Continued on page 198)

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ﾂｩshutterstock/popmarleo

Merging two houses into one home |

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SPOTLIGHT ON

SUNCARE A guide to safe fun in the sun

Going somewhere tropical for the honeymoon? Whether you’re hitting a beach or heading to Europe, too much sun exposure will do more harm than good. And, as much as we love that sun-kissed look, there is no such thing as a “safe” tan. Be sure to protect the skin you're in while you're soaking up the rays.

the pack it pocket Perfect for your phone, money and first-aid items. $20 from Initials, Inc. 314.614.1772, myinitials-inc.com/14311

haute hat The Initial Design will monogram most anything (like this straw beach hat) for $12! Floral scarf, $34.

1

Apply sunscreen and repeat often. Broad spectrum sunscreens protect you from both UVA and UVB radiation. Wear a 30SPF or higher and avoid peak times between 10am-4pm.

314.968.8300,

his and hers

initialdesignstl.com

From Erker’s Fine Eyewear, “Serena”

by Barton Perreira, $559, for her; TagHeuer, $675 for him. 314.997.0002

2 3

or 314.241.9410, erkers.com

Protect your eyes. Be sure your shades offer UV protection.

Wear a hat. Clothing is the best way to protect your skin, so cover up when you can and nothing looks more chic than a cool hat!

4

h20 Nuff said. Make sure you have it!

Hydrate. The alcohol in those fruity umbrella drinks can leave you dehydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of H2O.

5

If you have a suspiciouslooking mole or spot on your skin, see a dermatologist as soon as possible.

broad spectrum Badger sunscreens are safe, natural and

For more tips on skin protection and skin cancer detection visit skincancer.org and melanoma.org

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badgerbalm.com

photos by david lancaster

effective, $3.49-15.99.

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|

TA B L E S E T T I N G S

|

Dynamic Décor Eleven art-inspired tablescapes PHOTOGRAPHED BY KURTIS HALL ON LOCATION AT THE DOUBLETREE CHESTERFIELD

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art Inspiration

“Dancers in Pink” by Degas Table Design: Aaren Muex, Divine Events Floral Design: Tina Barrera, The Special Event Florist Rentals: Grand Rental Station, The Aries Company Linens: Sitting Pretty/Party Arts Stationery: Divine Events 108

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art Inspiration

“Sky Above Clouds”

by Georgia O’Keefe Table Design: Ashley Rath, Dishy Event Planning Floral Design: Artistry Florist Paper Goods: Ten Four Paper Linens: Connie Duglin Linens Rentals: The Aries Company Tables: Exclusive Events

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art inspiration

“Starry Night” by Van Gogh Table Design: Jenny Kehm, Before I Do Floral Design: Festive Atmospheres Paper Goods: M. Haley Design Linens: BBJ Linen Rentals: The Aries Company 112

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art Inspiration

Roy Lichtenstein Table Design: Amanda Bradham-Little, The Caramel Room at Bissinger's Floral Design: Bloomin' Buckets Paper Goods: Cheree Berry Paper Favors: Bissinger's Chocolates 114

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art INSPIRATION

“Tiny Dancer” by Degas Table Design: Simcha Lourie, Simcha’s Events Floral Design: Ann Rabbit, Thorn Studio Ice sculpture: Ice Visions China: Premier Party Rentals: Glassware/Cutlery: The Aries Company Versailles Chairs: Sitting Pretty/Party Arts Linen and Napkins: Connie Duglin Linen

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ART INSPIRATION

“Dictionary” by Liu Dan Table Design: Katie Turner, Kate & Company Floral Design: Crimson Petal Paper Goods: Two Blue Doors Linen: Handmade Vintage seating and couch: Finch Vintage Chargers: BBJ Linen Table Favors: Two Blue Doors and Kate & Company

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art INSPIRATION

Flamenco dancers Table Design: Kristin Weis, Kristin Ashley Events Floral Design: Sisters Flowers Paper Goods: Ten Four Paper Linen: Nuage Rentals: The Aries Company

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ART INSPIRATION

“Girl With A Pearl Earring”

by Johannes Vermeer Table Design: Ellen Gutierrez, Bride’s Vision Floral Design: Belli Fiori Paper Goods: M. Haley Design Linens: Sitting Pretty/Party Arts Rentals: The Aries Company

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aRT Inspiration

“Pink Tulip” by Georgia O’Keefe Table Design: Katie Saeger, Simply & Forever Floral Design: RW Designs Paper Goods and Chair Decals: Todd Studios Linens: La Tavola Rentals: The Aries Company (Table and napkins) Chairs: Premier Rentals Favors: La Patisserie Chouquette

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art INSPIRATION

“Aspen, Dawn, Autumn” by Ansel Adams Table Design: Shelli Alred, Alred Wedding Consultants and Shayna Laiderman Floral Design: Artistry Paper Goods: M. Haley Design Rentals: The Aries Company (Tables, chairs, linens, china, flatware)

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art inspiration

“Bacchus” by Caravaggio Table Design: Lucky You Productions Floral Design: Les Bouquets Linens, Chair Covers & Candelabra: Sitting Pretty/Party Arts Rentals: The Aries Company (Chairs, flatware, plates, glassware) Wine Carafes: Third Degree Glass Factory

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Iris gown by Modern Trousseau, $4,158 from Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique. Chantilly Lace Cathedral Veil by Erin Cole, $1,375 from Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique. Hand woven amethyst & seed pearl necklace by Rachels Design.com, $6,000.

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Designed to Dazzle Ten fascinating gowns to tickle your bridal fancy PHOTOGRAPHED BY BIBI & VLATKO ERDEG, PHOTO ELEGANCE SHOT ON LOCATION AT SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF ART AND SOHAILA

Styled by Jenny Kehm, Before I Do Hair by John Napoli, Studio Napoli Makeup by Jessica Dana, Human Art, LLC Flowers by Les Bouquets Molly McCann and John Norvell, West Model & Talent Management Tatyana Grushevsky and Tyler Lemay, Independent Models

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Left: Gown by Mori Lee, $1,899 from The Ultimate Bride. “Chic” cathedral veil by Toni Federici, $300 from The Ultimate Bride. Crystal and Pearl necklace by Bling, $359 from The Ultimate Bride. This page, left: Rosemary gown by Lea-Ann Belter, $3,900 from Town and Country Bridal Boutique. Toni Federici “Gallant” necklace ($270) and “Clove” bracelet ($240) from Town and Country Bridal Boutique. 18k white gold and diamond ring, $2,500 from Timekeepers. This page, right: Samuelsohn's Performance Collection, $1,295 from Mister Guy. Robert Talbot pocket square, $75 from Mister Guy. Pink shirt by New England Shirt Company, $175 from Mister Guy. Omega Seamaster watch, $4,200 from Timekeepers.

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Left: Dalton Tuxedo by Red Sleeve from Savvi Formalwear. Cartier Roadster watch, $5,000 from Timekeepers. “Nova” ($390) and “Josephine” ($450) hair accessories

by Toni Federici from The Ultimate Bride. Right and opposite page: Gown by Essense of Australia, $2,099 from The Ultimate Bride. Crystal “Cluster” earrings by Bling, $99 from The Ultimate Bride. 18k white gold with 1.51c center diamond, $12,000 from Timekeepers.

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Pronovias “Landra” gown, $1,799 from the Ultimate bride; “Scarlett” statement necklace $129 and “Sophia” pearl earrings $26 from Dream Day Designs; Jackson by Ike Behar suit from Stallone’s Formalwear.

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Opposite page and this page, right: Lilac Corset with Lilac Skirt by Monique Lhuillier, $3,220 and $3,500 respectively from Town and Country Bridal Boutique.

Sterling silver patina cuff, sterling silver and 24k textured necklace and sterling and pearl ring from hannahlongjewelry.com. This page, left: Black Desire Tuxedo

by Michael Kors from Savvi Formalwear. Omega Seamaster watch, details on page 135.

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This page: Iris gown by Modern Trousseau, $4,158 from Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique. Chantilly Lace Cathedral Veil by Erin Cole, $1,375 from Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique. Hand woven amethyst & seed pearl necklace by RachelsDesign.com, $6,000. Opposite page: Lisbeth by Vera Wang, $9,500 from Berrybridge Bridal Boutique. Hand woven sapphire & seed pearl diamond necklace, $4,500 and striking art deco pearl & sapphire bracelet, $2,500 by RachelsDesign.com.

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Opposite page: Oatmeal colored gown by Watters, $1,990 from Frew's Bridal. Hand woven seed pearl sautoir tassel necklace by RachelsDesign.com, $5,500. This page: “Mischlene” gown by Sottero and Midgley, $3,998 from Frew's Bridal. Crystal and Rhinestone headpiece by Madison Avenue, $190 from Frew’s Bridal.

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This page: Daphne by Modern Trousseau, $1,095 from Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique. Hand woven seed pearl bracelet with garnets and aquamarine by RachelsDesign.com, $4,000. Opposite page: Gown by Alvina Valenta, $3,850 from Simply Elegant Bridal. “Theo” necklace by Meg Jewelry, $165 from Simply Elegant Bridal. Black Desire Tuxedo

by Michael Kors from Savvi Formalwear. Hanauer Bowtie ($75) & Pocket Square from Mister Guy.

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Diamonds and Lace What lies underneath the gown

Photographed by Alecia Hoyt, XOXO Alice

Flowers by Poppies Design Studio Hair by Holly Speakes, ProColour Salon Makeup by Kristina McGaughey Videography by Macy Mehrle, Rue De La Vie

Patricia Martin, Elizabeth Austin, Stephanie Willig and “Tiki” the standard poodle, Independent Models.

Shot on location at the XOXO Alice Studio

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Huit Divine bodysuit, $106 from Sugar Magnolia; 18K white gold hearts & ďŹ&#x201A;owers bracelet and rare 8.33ct cushion cut natural untreated blue sapphire

and diamond ring from Curt Parker Jewelers.

18K white gold and sapphire bracelet from Simons Jewelers, shown on Tiki the standard poodle.

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Clo Intimo “Fortuna” chemise, $119 from Clair De Lune; 18K yellow gold amethyst, prosiolite, citrine and smokey quartz necklaces with matching bracelet from Simons Jewelers.

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jewel tones

Lise Charmel “Isphan Grenade” in Sanguin; demi bra ($169) and thong ($119) from Clair De Lune; Victorian enamel lily pendant, garnet and diamond ring

•• circa 1930’s, Georgian ruby & Diamond bangle bracelet circa 1860’s and garnet ring from Timekeepers.

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floral fantasy

Aubade “Reve Louxor” demi bra ($159) and short ($119) from Clair De Lune; Victorian slide chain and Filigree-style, tri-color diamond ring from Timekeepers; “Gold Digger” hair ribbon,

•• $180 from Katherine Jessica Collections.

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Bodysuit details on page 147. 18K white gold hearts & flowers bracelet and rare 8.33ct cushion cut natural untreated blue sapphire and diamond ring from Curt Parker Jewelers.

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Hanky Panky “Victoria” hi-lo lace chemise with thong, $129 from Clair DeLune; Checkerboardfaceted aquamarine and diamond ring, 1920’s long white gold and diamond dangle earrings and Deco diamond pendant from Timekeepers; “Floral Fire” band, $160 from Katherine Jessica Collections.

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delicate details Eberjay Colette chemise,

•• $75 from Sugar Magnolia.

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lovely lace

Mary Green chemise ($90) and boy short ($40) from Sugar Magnolia; Pearl and diamond

•• bracelet and ring from Timekeepers.

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Natori feathers bra ($68), Cosabella “Never Say Never” thong ($21.50) and garter belt ($46.50) from Sugar Magnolia; Platinum 8.66ct pear cut diamond ring and custom-designed diamond earhoops from Curt Parker Jewelers; Braid hair ribbon, $130 from Katherine Jessica Collections.

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vintage glamour Vintage ostrich feather wrap from

XOXO Alice; 20.00ct 18K white gold long necklace (can be divided into two shorter necklaces that nest) and 2.00ct cushion diamond halo diamond ring from Simons Jewelers; Antique silver comb,

•• $70 from Katherine Jessica Collections.

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Aubade “Soleil Lavant” demi bra ($159) and Italian brief $109); sapphire/diamond star pendant with round snake style Omega chain, sapphire and diamond ring and bracelet from Timekeepers; “Floral Fire” band, $160 from Katherine Jessica Collections.

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|

CAKES

|

Sweet Inspiration Eight Scrumptious Masterpieces 3WUVb QOYSa bVOb Z]`S[ W^ac[ R]Z]`S d]Z]`S OcbOb

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sarah's cake shop Four-tiered poppy cake by Sarah's Cake Shop features turquoise lace and gold leaf embellishment.

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wedding wonderland Handsome groom + groom cake by Wedding Wonderland is dressed sharply from top hat to tuxedo.

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the sweet divine Three-tiered “something blue” cake by The Sweet Divine features ruched fondant, flower cut out and pearl detail.

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artistry on cakes Lace cake by Artistry on Cakes features strands of pearls and a floral topper.

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lubeley's bakery Three-tiered cake by Lubeley's Bakery features piped floral detail and scroll work in peaches and corals, along with a topper of fresh roses.

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the cakery Five-tiered cake by The Cakery is personalized for the wedding couple and features gold lattice work and sugar paste flowers.

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sugaree baking company Anemone cake by Sugaree Baking Company features sugar-paste flowers and edible lace.

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encore baking company Three-tiered butterfly cake

by Encore Baking Company features sugar paste flowers and butterflies.

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Good Reads

Six nightstand-worthy wedding books

| P H OTO G R A P H E D BY D AV I D L A N C A S T E R

1

2

3

4

5

6

“Twenty Poems to Bless Your Marriage and One to Save It,” Roger Housden, Shambhala Publications, $12.95

“A Gentleman Walks Down the Aisle—A Complete Guide to the Perfect Wedding Day,” John Bridges & Bryan Curtis, Thomas Nelson, Inc., $16.99

“The Green Bride Guide - How to Create and EarthFriendly Wedding on Any Budget,” Kate Harrison, Sourcebooks, Inc., $14.99

"The New Art of Capturing Love— The Essential Guide to Lesbian & Gay Wedding Photography,” Kathryn Hmm & Thea Dodds, Amphoto Books, $24.99

“The Smart Guide to Bachelorette Parties,” Sharon Naylor, Smart Guide Publications, Inc., $18.95

“Emily Post's Wedding Planner Fourth Edition—The Definitive Organizer for Your Engagement, Wedding, and Honeymoon Plans," Peggy Post, Harper Collins, $27.95

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Wedding Splurge Manage your budget to get what you want

W

hen I was in high school, back in the 1900’s, there was a unit of study where we had to learn to live on a budget. I factored in the fake income from my fake job, structured a fake budget for things like fake rent, fake groceries, and other assorted fake bills. I was so good at it, I had enough fake money leftover to splurge on a fake Walkman!

But unless Daddy is a Trump or a Rockefeller, your wedding budget is probably very real, all too real, and you’re going to have some choices to make. Done carefully and correctly, your (Continued on page 193)

©SHUTTERSTOCK/AFRICA STUDIO

BY A M Y F E N S T E R B R O W N

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Six tips for a terrific trip

| By j e n n i f e r c . f r a k e s

You may have heard of Stefan and Erika Svanstrom, a Swedish couple who took an

extended, four-month long honeymoon. Their adventures began in Germany, where they experienced one of Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worst blizzards on record. The couple then headed to Cairns, Australia, just in time for a cyclone, and then Brisbane, which was ravaged by floods.

After narrowly escaping bush fires in Perth, Stefan and Erika arrived in New Zealand at about the same time as a major earthquake. For a grand (Continued on page 204) 180

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The Perfect Honeymoon www.bridestl.com â&#x20AC;˘ FALL/WINTER 2014

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Wedding Show 101 Do’s and Dont’s to help you navigate

Little known fact… the word BRIDE is an acronym. It stands for Busy Running In Directions Everywhere. It’s little known because it’s actually not true. But it makes sense, doesn’t it?

Planning a wedding is a massive undertaking with details upon details and lists upon lists. Even if Martha Stewart had serious OCD she would need help keeping organized.

Wouldn’t it be dreamy if there were some sort of one-stopshopping event where you could meet several vendors in an afternoon? You could see different floral and cake displays, look at wedding gowns, talk with representatives from various venues for receptions and rehearsal dinners, and maybe pick up some new ideas you hadn’t even considered.

(Continued on page 196)

©shutterstock/ohn mar

By a m y f e n s t e r b r o w n

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Pros and Cons of Holiday Weddings

A

Aimee Devoll had a beautiful wedding. The ceremony took place at a historic church in Soulard and the reception at Windows on Washington, with delicious food, festive drinks and a wonderful band. But looking back, Aimee says, laughing: “If I were invited to my wedding now, I probably wouldn’t go.”

Why would a happily married woman say such a thing? Aimee and her husband Matt wed the day after Thanksgiving, and the reasons they chose that date are a little vague to them now.

Matt is from Delaware and they met in college in New Orleans, so lots of out-of-towners were invited. Though Aimee doesn’t remember any complaints from guests, she now realizes they were lucky to have had such a good turnout.

Getting married on or near a holiday has its pro and cons, and extra elements to consider.

Guests may happily attend your wedding celebration or be hesitant to share it with their holiday—often depending on which holiday it is. The following brides, (Continued on pg. 201)

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©shutterstock/Sergey Nivens

Thinking of a holiday wedding? Some may work better than others By j e n n i f e r c . f r a k e s

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Ask Anna Anna Post is the great-greatgranddaughter of Emily Post and co-author of “Emily Post’s Etiquette, 18th edition” www.emilypost.com To ask Anna an etiquette question, write to stlouisbride@emilypost.com.

all about tipping

ANNA: Tipping can be a tricky question, and whether to tip or not depends on the vendor and your contract. Tipping amounts can also vary by region and are often on the higher end in major metropolitan areas, so ask around about the norms. (Continued on next page) 186

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JACK ROWELL

Q. My fiancé and I are in the midst of reception planning and the subject of tipping has come up. We’re not sure which vendors to tip, and if we do need to tip them, how do we do it? Also, should we tip our officiant?

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Anna Post

Let’s break it into categories: ceremony services, reception services, transportation services, and professional services.

Ceremony Services: Ask about the fees or suggested donations for the use of the house of worship when you meet with your officiant or the person who organizes weddings.

Usually, you don’t tip the officiant, the organist, or other members of the church or synagogue’s staff. If your officiant isn’t affiliated with a house of worship, or is travelling to be at your wedding, you should cover all his or her travel and lodging costs. Additionally, your officiant (and his or her spouse or significant other) is a guest at both the rehearsal dinner and the reception. A letter of thanks to your officiant, perhaps accompanied by a personal gift, is a good way to show your appreciation to someone who played a major role in your wedding.

If a tip isn’t included in the contract for any outside musicians that you hire, add 15 percent, or tip a flat fee of $15 to $20 per musician.

Deliver all fees (or the balance on fees) and tips right after the ceremony. Prepare labeled envelopes several days ahead, and include a short note of thanks. It’s the best man’s duty to deliver them; if that’s not possible, then the father of the bride (or groom in some cases) should put this on their “to do” list.

Reception Services: Nowadays, it’s likely

that your contract with a reception venue will include tips as a percentage of the entire package. Do ask which members of staff are tipped, and how tips are handled. Since tips are the host’s responsibility, make it clear that no tip jars or coin plates will be displayed.

Typically, restroom and coatroom attendants, wait staff, bartenders, the maître d’, catering manager and sometimes the chef are all tipped. If these tips aren’t included in your contract, count on $1 to $2 per guest for restroom and coat attendants. Make an estimate from your final guest count and round up a little. Tip the bartenders as a group, 10 percent of the total liquor bill. The maître d’ or headwaiter is tipped 1 to 3 percent of the contracted food and beverage price, and waiters each receive about $20 or more. Tip the chef $100 or more. As with ceremony fees and tips, prepare labeled payment envelopes and have the best man or father of the bride deliver them to the reception manager or maître d’ for distribution.

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Musicians or a D.J. are tipped at the end of their gig and any final payments are also delivered at the same time. Tip a D.J. 15 percent of the fee, and musicians $25 to $50 per musician if tips aren’t included in the contract.

Transportation Services: Limo, taxi, bus and shuttle drivers are tipped 15% if the tip is extra, and parking attendants $1 to $2 per car.

Tip more for valet parking; if the valet parking is contracted, then 15 percent is the norm.

Professional Services: Your wedding plan-

ner, photographer, videographer, and reception manager fall into this category. These are the people you will work with the most and develop a close relationship with. Generally, amounts vary from $100 to $400, depending on level of service and satisfaction. However you decide to style your thank you, send it personally from you as a couple along with a heartfelt note expressing your appreciation soon after your wedding day. including mother in law in wedding planning

Q. My fiancé and I are paying for our own wedding.

Usually we’re on the same page about the major decisions, but lately his mother has been calling almost daily to demand that we invite certain distant relatives or pressuring us to serve a particular type of meal. How do I get her to back down?

ANNA: It’s easy to get annoyed when someone else’s input doesn’t fit in with your plans and budget. Because it’s your future motherin-law, proceed with caution. You want this relationship to be pleasant. It’s likely that most of her suggestions are coming from excitement and a desire to be involved in the planning. Include her where you can and work to build a good relationship—spending ten minutes on the phone with her to share the pros and cons of your top two receptions locations doesn’t cost you anything and will mean a lot to her. As you begin to include her more, it’s likely that the demands will decrease if not disappear. When you do need

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Anna Post

to say no, enlist the help of your fiancé—he can explain to his mother why it’s not possible to include her second cousins on the guest list.

If there are any small concessions that you can make as a gesture of good will then do so.

If her best friend is a vegan, ask the caterer if there can be a vegan meal for this one guest.

Social Media and Your Wedding

Q. I’m really excited to be engaged. Is it okay to post pictures and information about the wedding on my Facebook page?

ANNA: Facebook is a great place to share your engagement and wedding news. But in all the excitement, it’s easy to accidently over-share.

Try to avoid: The rush to gush. Make sure you’ve told your big news personally or by phone to your most important relatives and close friends before you tell the your social media world. Think how you’d feel if you heard about your sister’s engagement on Facebook and not from her.

Inadvertently extending an invitation.

A “Can’t wait to see you all at the wedding” post to your entire friend list could be taken seriously by those you weren’t intending to invite. Unless you mean it, don’t do it—not only could your wedding be overrun, but you’re likely to hurt the feelings of those friends that don’t receive a printed invitation.

TMI – not all your social network friends will be

coming to your wedding, so keep planning chatter to a minimum, or create a private Facebook group for your attendants.

TMI II – no outrageous photos from the

bachelor(ette) party.

Wedding attire

Guests: What to Wear A guest’s “what to wear to a wedding” dilemma can be compounded today when weddings run the gamut from full-blown black tie to more casual events in meadows or on beaches.

It used to be that all evening weddings were formal, but that’s not necessarily the case.

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Anna Post

guests should opt for attire that’s respectful and on the dressier side. Brides and grooms can be a big help by giving their guests a heads up instead of keeping them guessing.

A practical place to convey this information is on your wedding website. You can also share this information the old-fashioned way: word of mouth. Let’s say the groom’s worried that some of his guy friends might take “casual” to mean shorts and a t-shirt. Using a little humor, create a Web page showing examples of “thumbs-up” attire—slacks, loafers, dress shirt, optional jacket and tie—and “thumbs-down:” shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops. It’s also a great place to get the word out that ladies might prefer wearing flats instead of stilettos to an outdoor garden wedding. ♥

Guest Attire Guidelines ladies Formal/Afternoon Short cocktail or afternoon dress; hats and gloves optional.

Formal/Evening Depending on local custom, long evening dress or very dressy short cocktail dress; gloves optional Semiformal/Afternoon Short afternoon dress, dressy pantsuit or cocktail dress; hats optional.

Semiformal/Evening Cocktail dress or very dressy pantsuit.

Informal Afternoon dress; hats optional.

men Formal/Afternoon Dark suit; conservative dress shirt and tie.

Formal/Evening Tuxedo (required if reception invitation says “black tie,” or dark suit.

Semiformal/Afternoon Suit Semiformal/Evening Dark suit Informal/Afternoon Suit, or slacks, dress shirt and blazer; tie optional.

Informal/Evening Suit, or slacks, dress shirt, tie, and blazer.

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Wedding Splurge (Continued from page 178) wedding budget spreadsheet can allow you to splurge on what’s most important to you.

Shelli Alred of Alred Wedding Consultants has a simple way of finding out what couples want to focus on for their wedding. “I ask them a lot of questions, one being ‘When you close your eyes, what do you imagine your wedding day to be?” That tells me volumes about them. From what they tell me, I will know if having fun is the most important aspect, or food, or ambiance.”

“I splurged on paying for a wedding planner, which was well worth it since we got married at my parent's house and had to coordinate everything ourselves. Make sure you have a good connection and trust the people you hire.”

Once she gets a feel for what the couple wants to splurge on, she helps them work with the budget to make it happen. “I will allocate a bit of a larger portion of their budget to what they deem important. If a good time is important to them, I would allocate more than the typical percentage to music and fun ‘things’. I don’t drain their budget on it, but I certainly leave enough room in there to get what they want and to not regret it.”

So you’re in the majority here, with most brides having to choose where to plunk down the cash. You know, all the cool kids are doing it.

In fact, I’ve gathered some of the coolest married ladies I know, who also used those high school budget lessons to figure out where to splurge.

“I splurged on paying for a wedding planner, which was well worth it since we got married at my parents’ house and had to coordinate everything ourselves. Make sure you have a good connection and trust the people you hire.”

Sandra D., married 2 months “One of my favorite aspects of our wedding was the reception site. I really wanted a cozy, outdoor atmosphere, so we chose Cafe DeMenil. I also LOVED using the trollies after the ceremony when we were driving around downtown St. Louis to take pictures.”

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Wedding Splurge “Pick one thing that really is important to you and splurge on that. Maybe it’s a golf tournament, maybe it’s your favorite place to visit, maybe it’s your favorite ice cream. Take that and run with it and build on it to work it into your special day.”

Jenny A., married 7 years “Flowers and music because flowers are pretty and

because music makes the night what you want! We paid extra for a bigger band with no breaks and people were on the dance floor all night!”

Courtney S., married 10 years “I splurged on flowers and photography. I loved the idea of fresh flowers everywhere at our reception and it was a nice way to keep the decor simple and classic. We went with a photographer

who I had seen work many times, and I liked his style. We opted for a package that included videography, and it has been the greatest accidental decision we made! We watch our wedding video every year on our anniversary, and it gets better every time. 10 years later, it is so much fun to see everyone we celebrated with!”

Mollie W., married 10 years “I felt that flowers were what really could showcase my style and taste and add the ‘wow’ factor that I was looking for. I wanted people to walk into the reception and say ‘wow’ and the floral centerpieces did that. I’ve been to weddings where the flowers were minimal or very inexpensive looking and while the wedding was lovely, there was nothing unique or special about it. The flowers really added ‘me’ to the space.”

Jennifer C., married 10 years “Whatever is going to make you happy on that day is worth a splurge, so long as it is to make YOU happy and not just for show or to make others happy!”

Amy L., married 11 years My splurge was to have an Elvis impersonator come to our wedding and sing. My husband is a huge Elvis fan, and I wanted to do something that would incorporate the King, serve as a fun surprise, and be something fun and different for our guests. My husband was surprised, and it was fun to see everyone on the dance floor, young and old, dancing to the music. To this day, people still refer to our wedding as the Elvis wedding. To offset the cost, I scaled back on flowers and decorations because I thought having Elvis would be more memorable. Weddings are usually all about the bride, so I wanted to include something that was about my husband, and he was very appreciative.

So my suggestion would be to do something special for each of you as individuals, which will only strengthen the collective you as a couple.

Sheri C., married 12 years “Premium bar was a must for our wedding, as well as good food and music. We wanted to be sure everyone enjoyed themselves as much as we would on our special day. We love music and chose a live band that reflected who we are. We also are foodies, love to eat and good wine and cocktails were a must!”

Julie E., married 12 years “We spent the most on photography. Pictures are forever. Video is forever. You can’t reproduce that day. You will remember who is there forever by looking back at your album. People who are not around any longer were at my wedding.

I can still see them and remember what a wonderful time it was! Take a million pictures..........

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Wedding Splurge you’ll look at them forever!”

Trish V., married 12 years “The band—we wanted to make sure everyone was dancing and having a great time! We were all having so much fun that at the end of their booked time, we paid the band to play for an extra two hours. Even then, no one wanted the night to end!”

Tracy G., married 13 years

“We stretched ourselves a bit on the venue because we really wanted to be able to accommodate lots of friends and family. We wanted the kind of wedding where our cousins’ little kids could come and collapse from exhaustion after they danced all night. So, we opted for size over opulence and I’d make the same decision, today.

It’s just who we are. We love a big party! We still have friends tell us they had a blast at our wed-

ding. It didn’t have a lot of class. But, it had a lot of heart.”

Jill F., married 21 years “I splurged on photos. The couple will need these treasures to remember who they were and how much love they ‘banked up’ when the inevitable hard times hit!”

Alesha T., married 30 years ♥

“Decide on what you and your fiancé believe is important. Food? Flowers? Location? Dress?

Then go all out on what is at the top of your list. We treated our wedding reception as the greatest party we would throw in our lifetime. We wanted great food and drink. Once tomorrow came it was saving for a family, college tuition and retirement.”

Liz L., married 13 years

“We spent the most on photography. You can’t reproduce that day.

You will remember who is there forever by looking back at your album.

People who are not around any longer were at my wedding.

I can still see them and remember what a wonderful time it was!”

“We splurged on our honeymoon and went to Europe and did a Mediterranean Cruise. We figured the ceremony and our wedding day would fly by so quickly- you only wear your dress for a few hours then put it away, and you probably won’t even get to eat that cake you spent so much on. So we wanted a honeymoon trip we would be able to relish and really enjoy. I had lived in Europe and wanted to go back and my husband had never been, so it was a great opportunity to splurge and go somewhere we really wanted to go.”

Susan G., married 14 years “We splurged on a great band for our wedding. We wanted everyone to dance and have a great time. The dance floor was packed the entire time… a sign of a great party.”

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Wedding Show 101 (Continued from page 182) It exists! It’s called a wedding show. Saint Louis Bride Magazine happens to put on two wedding shows a year, and they are spectacular, if we may say so ourselves. If you’ve never been, you might need a quick lesson on how to navigate. So print out this DO and DON’T list and be on your way!

And while you’re at it, go ahead and

schedule yourself to come to Saint Louis Bride Magazine’s next two wedding shows… July 20, 2014 at the St. Louis Union Station Hotel and January 11, 2015 at The Chase Park Plaza Hotel.

DO DO DO!

1

DO make and bring labels. A simple mail-

ing label can save you tons of time, trouble,

and the potential of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Use a standard mail merge program, include your name, the groom’s name, an email address, a phone number, and your wedding date. Then instead of filling out information cards and raffle cards, you can just slap on a label and hit the next booth.

2

DO bring your wedding planner book, or have your iPhone planning app open and ready to go, in case you book any appointments on the spot.

3

DO bring a camera, or have that iPhone app ready too! You might see a display you’d like to recreate, or save the image of something you fancied for when you meet with the vendor.

4

DO bring color swatches. Do you know how many shades of pink there are? Now triple that number. Instead of trying to describe or visualize, just bring a couple swatches so you can see if anything you spot at the show would

Do make and bring labels with you. A simple mailing label can save you tons of time, trouble, and the potential of carpal tunnel syndrome. Instead of filling out information cards and raffle cards, just slap on a label and hit the next booth. look good in your colorscape.

5

DO know your guest list. If you’re looking for a venue and find one you love that holds 80 people, make sure your guest list isn’t 280 people, or the best man might have to make his toast from the parking lot.

6

DO know what you’re shopping for.

You might have your dress, shoes and cake already, so you can scoot past those booths.

Keep your focus to what you still need, and make a beeline for those vendors.

7

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Wedding Show 101 just here to gather information, not sign on the dotted line.

8

DO bring paper and pen. You can delegate this job to one of your bridesmaids or future mother-in-law perhaps, but be sure to take notes on anything you see, want to remember later, or names of vendors you want to Google search.

want to spend, and don’t get caught up in one amazing thing you see that could blow your whole budget.

9

DON’T rush! Take your time! You could

spend a couple hours strolling the aisles, meeting vendors, and dipping Rice Krispies treats in chocolate fountains. Slow down and take it all in.

10

DON’T forget the groom’s side. Even

if he doesn’t want to come along, his mother might. And she’s about to be your mother-in-law. And the grandmother of your future children. So pick up the phone and invite her, include her on appropriate decisions, and make sure she gets to be a part of the process.

Remember, you catch more future babysitters with honey than you do with vinegar. ♥

9

DO save your feet! Don’t doll up in high heels for this one, girls. Wear shoes you can stand and walk in for a couple hours. Save your tootsies for the towering heels you’ll wear on your wedding day.

10

DO bring a bag. Those reusable totes are for more than just groceries. Vendors often hand out samples, pamphlets, and more, so have your own “stash and carry” ready to go.

DON’T DON’T DON’T

1

DON’T go it alone. Bring your mom, his

mom, maid of honor, anyone who is involved in your wedding planning. It’s a fun day that can be even more fun, and less overwhelming, with your support system backing you up.

2

DON’T arrive hungry. While there will

3

DON’T allow yourself to be talked into something you don’t want. Keep your

4 5

DON’T feel pressured to put down deposits on the spot.

likely be cake samples galore, Hell hath no fury like a young lady on a budget with low blood sugar. Eat a real lunch first.

vision in focus, your plans straight, and if you aren’t comfortable with a vendor, don’t feel forced to make an appointment.

DON’T be stressed! Enjoy yourself!

You’re just going to gather ideas and information, sort of like walking through living pages of a wedding magazine!

6

DON’T feel like you have to make any decisions at the show or even that day.

7

DON’T expect to learn every detail of everything right then and there. Vendors

8

DON’T forget your budget! Have an idea about what you can afford, what you

Go home, take time to go through the information, and make a relaxed, informed decision.

want to be gracious but won’t have time to spend 15 minutes alone with you. There are dozens of brides there! Get the information you need and if the booth is super crowded, you can call to book an appointment if you’re really interested.

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Yours, His and Ours (Continued from page 102) the fast track to merging two spaces and saving your marriage before it even begins.

Put your purge brain on Think about purging and your body goes numb.

You mean, I have to get rid of stuff? Putting your purge brain on is more than just purging.

“Purging can be an emotional experience. It can

feel like you are abandoning or getting rid of a part of yourself; it is an emotional experience for most people," says Jamie Bodily, Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor. She goes on to say that moving can be an extremely hard time; not just physically, but emotionally. "It is normal to experience a wide variety of emotions from joy, relief to grief and overwhelm as you navigate this transitional time in your life."

“One way to view purging is as an opportunity to welcome new and better things into your life. What a wonderful way to start a marriage by welcoming in new and better things," says Bodily.

Talk it out and tell each other how you are feeling. Don’t just assume that your partner is okay. This merge can decide the fate of your marriage.

Invest the time now It would be so much easier to throw everything in a box, move and go through it later. This may seem like a great plan, but in reality, things will just keep piling up. Taking things to the new house that will never be used wastes time and space. Invest the time to go through things while you pack.

Ask yourself these questions with every item you pick up: • Do I need it?

• Where will I use it?

• Does it have a meaning?

Begin with the packing Start with one room at a time and simplify your living space. Do not move to the next room until the room you are in is completely packed up.

Label and date each box. Find an empty space in the garage or living room to start stacking boxes. To help with the process, have boxes labeled in categories and ready to fill.

Best wedding present ever The best part of the wedding is opening up the wedding gifts. You get more dishes, more sheets, another toaster and the perfect picture frame.

Don’t be afraid to be very particular about your gifts (color, function, etc). If you open it and

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An item with a meaning is no good in a box. If it’s a true legacy, you’ll figure out how to use it.

“Knowing your WHY is extremely important.

Why are you doing this? How do you want your environment to feel when you move?” says Jeff Arthur, Life coach and owner of Excalibur Coaching Institute. "Material things have no feeling and they don’t know where they are going."

Yours, His and Ours don’t like it, chances are it will sit in your closet taking up space. Consider recruiting people for your move as a wedding present. Imagine helping hands, rather than more unwanted gifts that you may or may not like.

Dream a little Lifting each other up will be the best part of your marriage to come. Lift each other during this merge with a vision. You won’t agree on everything. You won’t even like the decisions at every level. Dream about your new space. Don’t be afraid to camp out overnight in an empty space and dream together.

You have 3 options: 1. Tell them that you don’t need their help (be ready to explain).

2. Let them know upfront what you need and don’t need. The last thing you need is a boss telling you how to merge your home.

3. Deal with it and the anger it will cause. Be prepared for the friction between you and your new spouse.

This is your home. This is your chance to have all that you have wanted. Don’t let some else control it. It is not about them. It is all about you and your marriage.

Define your space I can go through every room one by one; but, let’s talk about the rooms that can be the biggest asset to your home merge. Defining your space

Don’t be afraid to be very particular about your wedding gifts (color, function, etc.).

If you open it and don’t like it, chances are it will sit in your closet taking up space.

Communicate Communication is by far the most important part of marriage. Merging two spaces is about communication. “Think of this merge as a practice run for all the communicating you will do in your marriage. Making assumptions will cause major friction in any marriage," continues Arthur. You are in control of your merge together. It is ok to stop for five minutes and chat about it.

Me space Starting life together as a couple is an exciting adventure. Just as each of you will have hobbies, friends and activities separate from one another, you should have a little bit of space you can call your own. A space to relax, to keep some of your favorite things, to read, to play video games or just veg out. You can decorate it (or not) and make it your own. While you will share many things and most of the space in your home, a little bit of individual space can help to keeps your relationship thriving. Share the space; don’t dictate.

Making it yours It does not matter what your mom says or how your sister acts. Friends and family can stress you out. They will have opinions that drive you crazy. It will only get worse.

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Yours, His and Ours will ensure that your home runs properly. You will not have lost time by searching for things.

You will also cut down on things draining your energy; thus, helping you excel in your marriage.

You will soon realize that a great marriage is not based on a clean house or perfect relationship; but, rather on working together and simplifying things in order to give more focus to the things that you want and need.

Kitchen The kitchen is the hub of the home.

• Compartmentalize things—Drinks, snacks, baking, batteries • Talk about who will cook and design the kitchen for them • Must have in all kitchens, a command center

Living room white barn inn Don’t be afraid to plan down time here. You will want to cuddle on the couch and watch TV. Make this room cozy. Make this a place where you can stop the world and have some carefree timelessness together.

The Bedroom, The Sanctuary This is the sanctuary of your home and the most important part of your marriage. You will not want to be intimate in a room full of boxes. You will not want to be intimate in a room full of energy drains. Move this room up to number one on your list Choose sheets you love. Put in extra special touches to make it personal and intimate.

Make this a room you love to spend time in!

Doing it now will ensure a healthy sex life and an intimate relationship. Take time to talk about what your vision is for this room. You will want this room to have nothing but your personality.

Basement & Garage Don’t use this area for storage. Plan it out and talk about the function of it. Most often, the basement and garage are where the over stock tends to land. In a few years, you will realize that 90% of the boxes left in these spaces have never been opened or used. Now you have a house that was never fully unpacked. Eighty-five percent of couples have reported they never finished unpacking. Then, they have to hire someone to help clean up five years later because, things got out of control. Don’t let this happen to you. Do the work now and fully unpack!

It is your HOME The most important thing in merging two houses is to remember that this is now your home—a place where spend every night, a place where you can feel safe and together. It does not matter what others think. If you don’t mind living in a messy house, than live it. If you want a spotless clean house, then plan it. If you want a comfortable house, then design it. Remember that each of you were raised differently and have different opinions about a house. Talk about this; don’t wait for three years to sneak up on you. Life happens so fast. If you don’t have kids yet, you might soon. If adversity has not hit you on the head; it's coming. Without talking this out and making your house a home, you could soon blame your spouse for your unhappiness and pick apart everything they are doing, including leaving the dirty underwear on the floor. The simple household things could soon drive your relationship; but only if you let it.

Merging a home is a big deal. Open up the lines of communication now. ♥ Leisa Jenkins is a professional organizer, certified Life coach, speaker and founder of Family in Balance, familyinbalance.com

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Holiday Weddings (Continued from pg. 184) guests and experts offer their wedding experiences throughout the year: Thanksgiving and Christmas

Ellen Gutierrez, owner and wedding coordinator of Bride’s Vision Weddings and Events, says that the Devolls were fortunate so many of their family and friends made the trip the week of Thanksgiving. Guests may prefer to spend time with family, especially holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, rather than attend a wedding. “I planned a wedding for a couple married right after Christmas. It was a lovely wedding, but they were disappointed by their low numbers,” Ellen says.

“People often want to stay close to home around the major holidays.”

for them goes over well,” says Ellen. “And you can incorporate the holiday into your day in fun and easy ways.”

Julia Taylor was a bridesmaid at a wedding on New Year’s Eve this past year that was a great celebration of the couple and the new year. “We bridesmaids passed out hats, crowns and noisemakers to guests shortly before midnight,” Julia says. “And part of the

reception room was set up like a lounge, with couches, which gave it a bit of a nightclub feel.” Ellen has planned weddings that have, in addition to the party favors, a balloon drop as the disc jockey counts down to the new year.

Ellen advises booking early if you choose to wed on New Year’s Eve, especially reserving the venue and the band, since that is tradi-

New Year’s eve is usually not as family-oriented, and guests are happy to attend a wedding then. People are ready for a party, and to have one already planned for them goes over well. You can incorporate the holiday into your day in fun and easy ways.

One such guest is Nikki Klapp, who went to a wedding the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

“I was away at college, and was coming home for Thanksgiving anyway,” Nikki says. “But I saw my family so rarely that I kind of resented having to spend a whole day and night at a wedding before heading back to school the next day.”

An advantage to a Christmas wedding, however, is that if it’s being held in a church, the church is already decorated for the holiday and you can save money on floral arrangements. Some venues are decked out for Christmas as well, such as the Piper Palm House and the Jewel Box. New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve, on the other hand, is usually not as family-oriented and guests are happy to attend a wedding then. “People are ready for a party, and to have one already planned FALL/WINTER 2014 • www.bridestl.com

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Holiday Weddings tionally one of their most in-demand nights.

A risk for winter holiday weddings is the possible inclement weather. Allison Green remembers a wedding she attended a few days before Christmas. “The ceremony was in South County and there was a forecast for a major snowstorm,” Allison remembers.

“The reception wasn’t until several hours

later, in St. Charles. By the time the reception was supposed to start, a lot of snow had fallen and the roads were awful. The wedding party’s limousine was late—it got stuck in the snow— and a lot of people didn’t make it to the reception.”

Valentine’s Day

Jane McAllister was a guest at nuptials held on

Valentine’s Day, and she doesn’t feel a lot of love for that particular wedding. “It probably could have been done tastefully, but it was over the top,” Jane says. “There were paper hearts all over the walls, everything was red and pink, there were heart centerpieces and heart-shaped candy…it was just too much.” Jane, like a lot of other guests in attendance, was single at the time and thought all the over-emphasis on love was redundant. “A wedding is already about love and the couple—the Valentine’s Day theme seemed like salt in the wound to all of us unattached girls.”

Halloween

Some brides plan for a holiday wedding, and others just happen upon the day. The latter was the case for Theresa D’Amico-Becker, who was married on Halloween. “We wanted a fall wedding and the Saturday that worked best for us was Halloween night,” Theresa says.

Theresa and her husband Kevin incorporated Halloween into their day without making it look like an Addams Family Reunion.

The wedding party wore black and the floral arrangements consisted of fall colors.

Halloween masks and candy adorned the tables. Wearing costumes to the reception, which was several hours after the ceremony (giving the kids time to go home and trickor-treat), was optional and many guests took them up on it. “A lot of our male guests loved changing out of suits and into costumes,” says Theresa. “There was actually a guest who asked me to dance after he put on his costume, and I couldn’t figure out who it was! We danced and then he left, and returned to reveal his identity. It was a cousin of mine and it was really funny.”

Fourth of July

Tracey Cavato is another bride that just happened to get married on a holiday. The house she and her future husband were building was going to be available sooner than anticipated, so they looked to move up their wedding day.

The Fourth of July was the only date available at their church and reception site. Much of Tracey’s family would be traveling from Chicago and were happy with the arrangements. “They were grateful they had more time to travel and hang out in St. Louis, rather than rush in for the rehearsal dinner and wedding then head back,” Tracey says. The reception was at a country club and guests were able to see the city’s fireworks display from the deck.

Ellen is coordinating a Fourth of July wedding at the Chase Park Plaza’s Starlight Room and is timing the festivities so that the guests will be able to step out on to the large patio and enjoy St. Louis’ fireworks. “You might 202

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Holiday Weddings also get a discount from booking your wedding during the week, if the Fourth of July falls then,” Ellen says.

Memorial Day and Labor Day

Ellen says these two minor holidays are always popular wedding weekends in St. Louis. “They are usually not holidays people already have firm plans for, the temperatures are mild, and they give your out-of-town guests an extra day to travel,” says Ellen. She also says sometimes there may be a price break if you get married on the Sunday of those weekends.

of three young children, “We usually celebrate one or the other, but not both our anniversary and Mother’s Day,” Shannon says. Her brother was married at Christmastime and he and his wife rarely have the time or inclination to celebrate their anniversary with so much going on that time of year.

Katy Colgan agrees. She was married between Christmas and New Year’s, and at the

time it was great. “But now, especially with kids, our anniversary is the last thing in a long string of holiday get-togethers and it gets lost in the mix,” Katy says.

But Theresa, the Halloween bride, doesn’t mind a bit. “We’ve been married for twelve years, and we still receive tons of anniversary cards. I guess a Halloween wedding is easy to remember!” ♥

What Anniversary?

A possible disadvantage to pledging your eternal devotion on a holiday is that, down the road, your wedding anniversary may get lost in the shuffle. Sheila Billings was married on the day before Mother’s Day, and likens it to have your birthday on Christmas. Now, as a mother

©shutterstock/Elena Schweitzer

Theresa and her husband Kevin incorporated Halloween into their day without making it look like an Addams Family Reunion. The wedding party wore black and the floral arrangements consisted of fall colors.

Halloween masks and candy adorned the tables.

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The Perfect Honeymoon (Continued from page 180) finale, you guessed it—their last stop was Japan, which experienced its devastating earthquake and tsunami.

The Svanstroms survived six major natural disasters on their honeymoon. No matter how carefully they may have planned their trip, they couldn’t have predicted or avoided what Mother

Nature had in store.

But what about the elements of a honeymoon that can be controlled, to ensure your trip is everything you and your future husband dream of? Mike Schellhase of Travel Haus says, “You get one and only one honeymoon. You should make sure you get what you want and it should be as stress-free as possible.” Mike offers advice for couples to achieve an unforgettable

(and in a good way!) honeymoon:

1

Be Wary on the Web

Mike recalls a couple who booked their honeymoon hotel on-line, based solely from the pictures on its website. “When they arrived, it wasn’t the pool in the picture, or the same beach pictured,” Mike says. “And it was a timeshare, so the couple was constantly harassed by salespeople about buying into it.”

The Internet can is a great place to begin your research, but don’t let it be your only source of information--especially not just one

The Internet is a great place to begin your research, but don't let it be your only source of information— especially not just one website. Read reviews and blogs about destinations you're interested in, from a variety of sites. website. Read reviews and blogs about destinations you’re interested in, from a variety of sites.

2

Take Friendly Advice With a Grain of Salt

Friends and family mean well and may offer lots of opinions on places they’ve been, and think you should go there, too. “But they could have been there 10 or 20 years ago, and things may have changed,” says Mike.

“Or, it may be a more family-oriented place and not have the atmosphere and amenities honeymooners are looking for.”

3

The Cheapest May Cost You

Too often couples see an extremely low price and let that be the determining factor. But they often fail to investigate what exactly is included in that price and what extra you’ll need to pay for anyway. “With these really low prices, often transfers from the airport to the hotel are not included,” Mike warns. “And be careful about booking the cheapest airfares.

Sometimes the connections are terrible, with long layovers or even an overnight layover.”

And after a whirlwind wedding, do you really

204

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The Perfect Honeymoon want to spend precious hours in an airport?

4

Consider Travel Insurance

Mike considers travel insurance a must. You can’t control a natural disaster, but you can manage how you deal with one. Hurricane season is June 1 thorough November 30, but especially during the months of September and October, which are also popular matrimonial months. With travel insurance you can cancel or re-book for any reason at any time.

Mike had some memorable clients who were thankful for the travel insurance they purchased. “At the reception, the groom cut off his bride’s garter with a pocketknife, then went to put the knife back in his pocket. When he did so, he cut himself in the leg, pretty seriously slicing a major artery, and they had to postpone their honeymoon.” But since they purchased travel insurance, they did so without any extra penalties or cost.

5

was overbooked due to a conference being held there. The staff was unsympathetic and the manager never appeared to talk to them.

The only alternative offered was a room at a Holiday Inn, downtown and 30 minutes away from the beach.

Unfortunately, these stories are not uncommon, says Mike. “If a couple is unhappy, they’re just two customers. The resort staff might think

you’ll be gone soon, so why should they knock themselves out trying to accommodate you?”

Mike says. “But if the couple works with a travel agent, and the resort doesn’t make it right, the agency may not send any more guests their way in the future. That gives the resort a lot more incentive to do whatever needs to be done to correct any problems.” It’s also a lot nicer to make a phone call to the travel agent you know

Travel Agents Have Clout

Many couples choose to honeymoon outside of the United States, with Mexico and the Caribbean being the most popular among spots. But what do you do when you arrive, if something goes wrong or is not as promised? This is when having booked your trip with a travel agent is especially helpful.

Agents have relationships and personal contacts with the resort staff and can help amend the situation in a timely manner.

Even in highly reputable hotels, overbooking is common. It happened to a couple that booked with Travel Haus, and by contacting their travel agent, the situation was quickly resolved. “The couple called me and I talked to the resort staff,” Mike says. “We found them an upgraded room at a nearby resort, and the staff provided the couple with a free dinner, spa treatment and snorkeling trip.”

On the other hand, couples that don’t use a travel agent sometimes don’t fare as well when something goes awry. One couple honeymooned at a supposedly five-star resort in Fiji and it was a nightmare. The all-inclusive resort had advertised an endless array of fresh seafood available.

The bride recalls: “But we were hardly offered any seafood at all. The food was terrible, there was nothing fresh and the staff used terrible hygiene when handling the food. We saw them wiping their noses and coughing into the food— it was disgusting! Both my husband and I ended up getting sick.” When they complained and referred to what they were promised when the booked the trip, “They basically laughed at us.

They had our money and didn’t care at that point,” says the bride.

Another couple arrived at their beachside resort in St. Thomas and was told it FALL/WINTER 2014 • www.bridestl.com

205

The Perfect Honeymoon back home, rather than spend your time pleading your case to the staff.

6

Does it Cater to Couples?

This is a factor that may be overlooked when deciding on a destination or resort, but it can make or break your experience. The Honeymooner’s Review Guide reported that disappointment on a honey-

moon is often due to not choosing the right resort, even if the resort has an otherwise strong reputation and is rated “excellent” by other travelers. “A highly-rated resort, which is great for families, young children and teenagers, may not be a good choice for most couples seeking a romantic honeymoon environment,” says Ron Haller of Honeymooner’s Review Guide.

Travel Haus specializes in destination weddings and honeymoons, and Mike couldn’t agree more. “I was touring a resort, a very nice resort, and saw a young couple sitting by the pool,” Mike says. “They didn’t look happy.

I went to talk to them, and sure enough, they were honeymooners at a resort full of families, surrounded by young and noisy kids. They didn’t choose a resort that catered to couples and they really regretted it.”

Resorts that specialize in honeymoons and adult guests are generally quieter and often have higher quality food and drink, says Mike.

The restaurants usually have a more romantic ambiance and the staff is trained to respect the couple’s privacy.

After making countless choices in the months of planning your wedding, the toughest decision during your honeymoon should be which cocktail to order or whether to go snorkeling or hang out at the beach. And with careful research and by enlisting the experts, you’re well on your way. ♥ 206

www.bridestl.com • FALL/WINTER 2014

©shutterstock/blue orange studio

What do you do when you arrive and something goes wrong or is not as promised? This is when having booked your trip with a travel agent is espewith the resort staff and can help amend the situation in a timely manner.

MAKING IT LEGAL

Though procuring a wedding license isn’t quite as complicated as the wedding itself, it helps to know the rules. Here they are: 1 All applicants in Missouri and Illinois must receive a license before the ceremony; Saint Louis Bride recommends a minimum of 24 hours. Blood tests are not required in either state.

2 A Missouri license is valid for thirty days from its effective date; an Illinois license for sixty days.

3 Both bride and groom must apply in person. In Missouri, you may apply for a license at any office provided the wedding is to take place within the state. In Illinois, you must apply for and receive a license from the county in which the ceremony will take place.

City of St. Louis City Hall, 1200 Market Street, Room 127 Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: State ID/driver's license, proof of social security number if absent from license Phone: 314-622-3257 Fee: $48 (cash only)

©Mn studio/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

St. Louis County St. Louis County Government Center 41 S. Central Avenue (4th floor), Clayton Hours: Mon., Wed., Fri. 8a.m.-5p.m.; Tues. and Thu. 8a.m.-6p.m.

ID: State ID/driver's license, proof of social security number; if under 18, must be accompanied by custodial parent/legal guardian with guardianship papers ($1.00 fee), must present certified copy of birth certificate Phone: 314-615-7180 Fee: $45 (cash only) Franklin County Government Center 400 E. Locust, Room 102 (Union) Hours: 8a.m.- 4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: proof of social security number Phone: 636-583-6367 Fee: $46 (cash only) St. Charles County St. Charles County Admin. Building 201 N. 2nd Street, Room 338 Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri.

ID: driver's license, proof of social security number if absent from license; if 15-17, must be accompanied by custodial parent ($1.00 fee), 18 and under must present certificate of birth as well Phone: 636-949-7505 Fee: $48 (cash only) Jefferson County Jefferson County Administration Center, Room 126, Maple Street (Hillsboro) Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: driver's license Phone: 636-797-5415 Fee: $51 (cash only) St. Clair County Illinois, County Clerk's Office 10 Public Square (Belleville) Hours: 8:30a.m.-4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 8:30a.m.12:00p.m. Sat. ID: two valid forms of ID (i.e. driver's license, social security card) Phone: 618-277-6600 x2388 Fee: $32 (cash, money order or local check) Madison County Illinois, Administration Building 157 N. Main Street, Suite 109 (Edwardsville) Hours: 8:30a.m.-4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: State ID, driver's license Phone: 618-692-6290 Fee: $30 (cash only) ♥

FALL/WINTER 2014 • www.bridestl.com

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800 Timber Ridge Dr., Grafton, IL 62037 www.aerieswinery.com

Y

700

350

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Ameristar Casino Resort Spa 636-940-4300, (Ad on page 169)

One Ameristar Boulevard, St. Charles, 63301 www.ameristar.com

Y

1450

640

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Avalon Hall at Overlook Farm, 573-242-3838, (Ad on page 224)

901 South Hwy. 79, Clarksville, MO 63336 www.overlookfarmmo.com

Y

500

400

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

The Barnett on Washington, 800-844-GO-BARNETT, (Ad on page 252)

3207 Washington Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103 www.barnettonwashington.com

Y

365

200

Y

Y

Y

call

N

N

Beyond Broadway 314-621-9598, (Ad on page 20) A>@7<5 AC;;3@ ! Â&#x2019; EEE 0@723AB: 1=; %'

(Patty Long Catering) 63104 www.pattylongcatering.com

Y

500

300

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Post 636-536-9404, (Ad on page 247)

16125 Chesterfield Parkway West, Chesterfield, MO 63017 www.bishopspost.com

Y

250

100

Y

Y

N

N

Y

N

Boo Cat Club, 314-224-5521, (Ad on page 201)

812 Union Blvd., St. Louis, 63108 www.boocatclub.com

Y

400

350

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Busch Stadium Special Events 314-345-9357, (Ad on page 63)

700 Clark Street, 63102 www.cardinals.com/events

Butterfly House 636-530-0076 (Ad on page 230)

15193 Olive Boulevard, 63017 www.butterflyhouse.org

Y

2000 1200

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Y

200

150

Y

Y

N

N

call

N

The Caramel Room, 314-615-2480 (Ad on page 105)

1600 North Broadway, 63102

Y

500

325

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

Carondelet Park Boathouse 314-289-5344

Loughborough and Field, 63116

Y

call

call

Y

N

Y

Y

n/a

N

Casa Loma Ballroom 314-664-8000

3354 Iowa (at Cherokee) 63118

Y

850

850

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Cedar Lake Cellars, 636-745-9500, (Ad on page 121)

11008 Schreckengast Road, Wright City, MO 63390 www.cedarlakecellars.com

Y

500

250

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Ces & Judyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LeChateau 314-991-6700 (Ad on page 197)

10405 Clayton Road, St. Louis, 63131 www.cesandjudys.com

Y

400

250

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Chandler Hill Vineyards, 636-798-2675, (Ad on page 81)

596 Defiance Road, Defiance, MO 63341 www.chandlerhillvineyards.com

Y

350

275

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Charles F. Knight Center, Washington University St. Louis 314-933-9400 (Ad on page 167)

Y

300

200

Y

Y

N

call

call

Y

Y

3000 1300

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

150

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

One Brookings Drive, 63130 www.olin.wustl.edu/knightcenter et. Alex Chase Park Plaza 314-633-3000, (Ad on page 19) roller for

212 Kingshighway, 63108 www.chaseparkplaza.com n, MO City Cottage on Chouteau 314-961-7588, (Ad on page 22)

(Catering St. Louis) 3800 Chouteau, 63110 www.cateringstlouis.com Relax and

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Whether your party is upscale and elegant or informal and fun, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find the perfect venue in our comprehensive list below.

6/12/14 12:54:46 PM

CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

The Coronado Ballroom & Meeting Facility 314-367-4848, (Ad on page 33)

3701 Lindell Blvd., 63108 www.thecoronado.com

Y

600

350

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Crowne Plaza St. Louis Airport 314-291-6700, (Ad on page 196)

11228 Lone Eagle Drive, Bridgeton, 63044 www.crowneplaza.com

Y

400

350

N

Y

call

Y

N

Y

Crowne Plaza St. Louis Downtown Hotel 314-436-8051, (Ad on page 188)

200 N. 4th Street, St. Louis, MO 63102 www.crowneplaza.com/stlouisdt

Y

350

350

Y

Y

call

Y

N

Y

DoubleTree by Hilton Collinsville/St. Louis 618-345-2800, (Ad on page 212)

1000 Eastport Plaza Drive, Collinsville, 62234 www.doubletreecollinsville.com

Y

800

450

Y

Y

N

call

N

Y

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Conference Center St. Louis 636-532-5000, (Ad on page 193)

16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017 www.doubletreechesterfield.com

Y

800

450

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

DoubleTree Westport Hotel 314-212-2110

1973 Craigshire, 63146 www.doubletreewestport.com

Y

1000

450

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Drury Inn & Suites Forest Park 314-646-0770, (Ad on page 32)

(Catering by Bartolino's Osteria) 2111 Sulphur Avenue www.druryhotels.com/content/weddings.aspx

The Falls Reception & Conference Center 888-538-3354, (Ad on page 130)

300 Admiral Wienel Pkwy., Columbia, IL 62239 www.seethefalls.com

Y

300

220

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Y

1200

600

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Flamingo Bowl, 314-436-6666, (Ad on page 246)

1117 Washington Avenue, 63101 www.flamingobowl.com

Y

300

150

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Forest Park Visitor’s Center 314-961-7588 ext. 221, (Ad on page 22)

(Catering St. Louis) 5595 Grand Drive in Forest Park, 63112 www.cateringstlouis.com

N

350

230

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Four Points by Sheraton 618-622-9500, (Ad on page 212)

319 Fountains Pkwy., Fairview Heights, IL, 62208 www.fourpointstlouis.com

Y

1,000

500

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, 314-881-2031, (Ad on page 53)

999 North Second Street, 63102 www.fourseasons.com/stlouis/weddings

Y

500

380

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

The Franklin Room, 314-664-7706, (Ad on page 235)

816 Allen Avenue, 63104 www.thefranklinroom.net

Y

300

300

N

Y

N

N

N

N

The Gardens at Malmaison 636-458-0313, (Ad on page 99)

3519 St. Albans Road, St. Albans, 63073 www.gardensmalmaison.com

Y

call

246

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

The Gateway Arch Riverboats, 314-923-3047 (Ad on page 195)

707 North First St., St. Louis, MO 63102 www.gatewayarch.com

Y

240

220

Y

Y

N

N

Y

N

FALL/WINTER 2014 • www.bridestl.com

209

CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Grand Hall on Chouteau 314-427-6771 (Ad on page 234)

(Russo’s Catering) 2319 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, MO 63103 www.russosgourmet.com

N

550

500

Y

Y

N

Y

ask

N

Graphic Arts, 314-427-6771 (Ad on page 234)

(Russo’s Catering) 105 Progress Parkway, St. Louis, MO 63043 www.russosgourmet.com

Y

300

250

Y

Y

N

ask

ask

N

Hilton St. Louis Airport, 314-426-5500

10330 Natural Bridge, St. Louis, MO 63134 www.hiltonstlouisairport.com

Y

800

600

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, 314-421-1776, (Ad on page 211)

1 South Broadway, 63102 www.hiltonstlouis.com

Y

900

650

N

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Hilton St. Louis Frontenac 314-993-1100, (Ad on page 215)

1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd, 63131 www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com

Y

1000

500

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Holiday Inn South County Center, 314-892-3600, (Ad on page 161)

6921 South Lindbergh Boulevard, 63125 www.holidayinn.com

Holiday Inn Route 66, 314-821-6600 (Ad on page 127)

10709 Watson Road, 63127 www.holidayinn.com

Y

500

325

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

Y

600

400

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

Horizon at Harry’s, 314-421-6969

2144 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103 www.horizonatharrys.com

Y

250

90

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

Hotel Lumiere, 314-881-7800, (Ad on page 159)

999 N. Secound Street, 63102 www.lumiereplace.com

Y

425

350

N

Y

N

tbd

Y

Y

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch, 314-342-4655 (Ad on page 41)

4th & Chestnut, 63102 www.stlouisarch.hyatt.com

Y

3500 2000

N

Y

N

call

N

Y

Jim Edmonds Space 15, 314-588-8899, (Ad on page 247)

1900 Locust Street, St. Louis, 63103 www.15stl.com

Y

250

180

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

Kemoll’s Restaurant 314-421-0555, (Ad on page 183)

40th Floor, Metropolitan Square, 211 N. Broadway, 63102 www.kemolls.com

Y

350

200

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Kemp Auto Museum 636-537-1718, (Ad on page 123)

16955 Chesterfield Airport Rd., 63005 www.kempservices.com

Y

1200

800

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Kuhs Farm 314-226-0709

13061 Spanish Pond Rd., Spanish Lake 63138 www.kuhsfarm.com

Y

10,000 900

Y

N

Y

N

N

N

Lemp Mansion Restaurant 314-664-8024, (Ad on page 245) 3322 Demenil Place, St. Louis, 63118 www.lempmansion.com

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

reception sites

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www.bridestl.com • FALL/WINTER 2014

260

260

CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Lockhaven Golf Club 618-466-2441 or 618-466-2861

10872 Lawrence Keller Drive, Godfrey, IL 62035 www.lockhavengolfclub.com

Y

300

240

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Lodge at Grant’s Trail 314-638-3340, (Ad on page 107)

4398 Hoffmeister, 63125 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com

Y

125

80

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

THE LOFT at Lucerne 314-401-3798, (Ad on page 252)

930 Kehrs Mill Road, Ballwin, MO 63011 www.theloftatlucerne.com

Y

200

160

Y

Y

call

Y

N

N

Lumen Private Event Space, 314-241-5757, (Ad on page 49) Y 600

2201 Locust, 63103 www.lumenstl.com

Magnolia Hotel 314-387-1385, (Ad on page 210) Y 500

421 N. 8th Street, St. Louis, 63101 www.magnoliahotels.com

300

N

Y

N

N

N

N

300

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Marriott St. Louis Airport 314-253-5234, (Ad on page 233)

10700 Pear Tree Drive, St. Louis, MO 63134 www.stlouisairportmarriottweddings.com

Y

800

600

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

Missouri Bluffs Golf Club 636-939-6494

#18 Research Park Circle, St. Charles 63304 www.mobluffs.com

Y

200

150

Y

Y

N

-

N

N

Missouri Botanical Garden 314-577-0200, (Ad on page 22)

(Catering St. Louis 961-7588 x221) 4344 Shaw Blvd., 63110 www.cateringstlouis.com

Y

350

200

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Missouri History Museum 314-454-3121, (Ad on page 228)

(Butler's Pantry Catering) 5656 Lindell, 63112 www.butlerspantry.com

Y

1500

300

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Moonrise Hotel 314-721-1111, (Ad on page 117)

6177 Delmar Blvd., 63112 www.moonrisehotel.com

Y

200

80

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Nat’l Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows 314-241-3400, (Ad on page 202)

442 S. De Mazenod Dr., Belleville, IL, 62223 www.snows.org

Y

600

400

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Neo on Locust, 314-570-9218 (Ad on page 175)

2801 Locust Avenue, 63103 www.neostl.com

Y

1000 600+

Y

N

Y

n/a

n/a

N

Ninth Street Abbey 314-621-9598, (Ad on page 20)

(Patty Long Catering) 1808 S. 9th St., Soulard, 63104 www.pattylongcatering.com

Y

300

210

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Noboleis Vineyards 636-482-4500, (Ad on page 61)

100 Hemsath Rd., Augusta, MO 63332 www.noboleisvineyards.com

Y

200

200

Y

Y

ask

N

N

N

Old Hickory Golf Club 636-477-8960, (Ad on page 17)

#1 Dye Club Drive, St. Peters, 63304 www.oldhickorygc.com

Y

650

550

Y

Y

N

ask

N

N

FALL/WINTER 2014 • www.bridestl.com

211

CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Old Post Office (Desco Group), 314-436-0101, (Ad on page 231)

815 Olive Street, Suite 19, 63101 www.oldpostofficestl.com

Y

500

250

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Oliva on the Hill 314-961-7588 x221 (Ad on page 22)

4915 Daggett, 63110 www.cateringstlouis.com

Y

150

100

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Orlando’s Event & Conference Centers, 314-638-6660, (Ad on page 107)

4300 Hoffmeister, 63125 www.orlandogardens.com

Y

1000

900

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Orlando’s Event & Conference Centers, 314-842-3316, (Ad on page 107)

8352 Watson Rd., 63119 www.orlandogardens.com

Y

950

850

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Orlando’s Event & Conference Centers, 314-453-9000 (Ad on page 107)

2050 Dorsett Village Plaza, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 www.orlandogardens.com

Y

900

600

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Overlook Farm, 573-242-3838, (Ad on page 224)

901 S. Hwy. 79, Clarksville 63336 www.overlookfarmmo.com

Y

300

250

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Palladium Saint Louis 314-799-8886, (Ad on page 224)

1400 Park Place, 63104 www.palladium-stl.com

Y

700

400

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Peabody Opera House, 314-622-2500 (Ad on page 37)

1400 Market Street, 63101 www.peabodyoperahouse.com

N

-

375

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Pear Tree Inn Union Station 314-241-3200 x7077, (Ad on page 32)

2211 Market Street, 63103 www.druryhotels.com/content/weddings.aspx

Y

500

300

N

Y

N

N

call

Y

Pevely Farms Golf Club 636-938-7000

400 Lewis Road, Eureka 63025 www.pevelyfarms.com

Y

250

150

Y

Y

N

-

N

N

The Piper Palm House 314-771-4410, (Ad on page 225) Y 275

(Butler’s Pantry Catering) 4256 Magnolia, 63110 www.butlerspantry.com

150

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

The Promenade by Westin, 314-552-5712 (Ad on page 198)

811 Spruce Street, St. Louis, MO 63102 www.westin.com/thepromenade

Y

500

275

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

Renaissance Grand and Suites Hotel 314-418-5820, (Ad on page 45)

800 Washinton Avenue, Downtown www.renaissancegrandweddings.com

Y

2000 1500

N

Y

N

call

N

Y

The Ritz Carlton, St. Louis 314-863-6300, (Ad on page 15)

100 Carondelet Plaza, 63105 www.ritzcarlton.com

River City Event Center and Casino, 314-881-7800 (Ad on page 29)

777 River City Casino Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63125

Y

1000

800

N

Y

N

call

call

Y

Y

1400

800

N

Y

N

call

N

Y

reception sites

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CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, 314-259-3200, (Ad on page 129)

315 Chestnut Street, St. Louis, MO 63102 www.ruthschrisstlouis.com

N

100

80

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

Saint Louis Art Museum 314-655-5387, (Ad on page 67)

One Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110 www.slam.org

N

400

300

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Saint Louis Science Center 314-289-1410, (Ad on page 113)

5050 Oakland Avenue, 63110 www.slsc.org

Y

1000

600

Y

Y

N

call

call

N

Saint Louis Zoo, 314-646-4855, (Ad on page 111)

One Government Drive, Forest Park www.stlzoo.org

Y

unltd.

500

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Sappington House Complex - The Barn Restaurant 314-822-8171 (House); 314-966-8387 (Barn), (Ad on page 245)

1015 S. Sappington Road, St. Louis, 63126 www.sappingtonhouse.org

Y

350

275

Y

Y

N

N

Y

N

The Sheldon Concert Hall & Ballroom 314-533-9900, (Ad on page 237)

3648 Washington Blvd., 63108 www.sheldoncancerthall.org

Y

700

500

N

Y

Y

call

N

N

Sheraton Westport Lakeside Chalet 314-878-1500, (Ad on page 173)

191 Westport Plaza, 63146 www.sheratonwestport.com

Y

1000

500

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Sheraton Westport Plaza Hotel 314-878-1500, (Ad on page 173)

900 Westport Plaza, 63146 www.sheratonwestport.com

Y

500

250

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Sheraton St. Louis City Center 314-231-5007, (Ad on page 96)

400 South 14th Street, 63103 www.sheratonstlouiscitycenter.com/weddings

Y

800

550

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Shrewsbury Ballroom and Banquet Center 314-647-1003, (Ad on page 242) 5200 Shrewsbury Avenue, Shrewsbury, 63119 www.cityofshrewsbury.com

Y

300

240

N

N

Y

Y

N

N

Soulard Preservation Hall 314-427-6771

1921 South 9th Street, St. Louis, MO 63104

N

350

300

N

Y

N

Y

ask

N

Spazio at Westport 314-576-0400, (Ad on page 248)

(Catering by Russo’s) 12031 Lackland Road, 63146 www.russosgourmet.com

N

350

300

N

Y

N

ask

ask

Y

Sqwires Front Room, 314-865-3522

1415 S. 18th Street, 63104 www.sqwires.com

Y

190

150

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

St. Louis Artists’ Guild 314-961-7588 x221, (Ad on page 22)

(Catering St. Louis) Two Oak Knoll Park, 63105 www.cateringstlouis.com

Y

150

110

Y

N

N

Y

N

N

St. Louis Union Station Hotel 314-621-5262, (Ad on page 204)

1820 Market Street, 63103 www.stlunionstationhotel.com

Y

500

500

N

Y

call

N

N

Y

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CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Y

600

340

Y

Y

N

call

N

Y

Y

240

140

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Sugar Creek Winery and Vineyards 636-987-2400, (Ad on page 119)

125 Boone Country Lane, Defiance, MO 63341 www.sugarcreekwines.com

Y

300

250

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

Sunset Hills Country Club 618-656-9380, (Ad on page 165)

2525 South State Routc 157, Edwardsville, IL 62025 www.sunsethillscountryclub.com

Y

350

300

N

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Tapawingo Golf Club, 636-575-4044 (Ad on page 131)

13001 Gary Player Drive, Sunset Hills, MO 63127 www.tapawingogolf.com

Y

300

200

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Third Degree Glass Factory, 314-367-4527 (Ad on page 221) 5200 Delmar Blvd., 63108 www.stlglass.com

Y

500+

225

Y

N

Y

N

N

N

Three Barn Farm, 314-961-7588 x221 (Ad on page 22) 20955 Highway W, Clarksville, MO 63336 www.cateringstlouis.com

Y

200

call

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Top of the Met 314-421-0555, (Ad on page 183)

(Catering by Kemoll's) One Metropolitan Square, 42nd Floor, 63102 www.kemolls.com

Y

600

400

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Upstairs at the Cheshire, 314-932-7857, (Ad on page 103)

7036 Clayton Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63117 www.upstairs-stl.com

Y

225

170

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Villa Antonio Winery 636-475-5008, (Ad on page 4)

3662 Linhurst Road, Hillsboro, MO 63050 www.villaantoniowinery.com

Y

300

300

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

Villa Marie Winery & Banquet Center, 618-345-3100, (Ad on back cover)

6633 E. Main Street, Maryville, IL 62062 www.villamariewinery.com

Y

450

375

Y

Y

N

N

Y

N

The Westin St. Louis 314-621-2000, (Ad on page 198)

811 Spruce St., 63102 www.westin.com/stlouiswedding

Y

500

275

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

Wild Flower Restaurant & Catering, (Ad on page 214)

4590 Laclede Avenue, 63108 www.wildflowerstl.com

Y

150

130

N

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Windows On Washington 314-241-5555, (Ad on page 115)

1601 Washington Ave., 63103 www.wowbanquets.com

Y

500

350

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Xavier Grand Ballroom 314-427-6771, (Ad on page 234)

(Russo's Catering) 3628 Lindell Blvd., 63108 www.russosgourmet.com

Y

400

350

N

Y

N

Y

a

N

reception sites Starlight Roof at the Chase 314-367-1700, (Ad on page 19)

212 North Kingshighway, 63108 www.chaseparkplaza.com

The Studio Inn 636-458-0131, (Ad on page 99)

454 Studio Road, St. Albans, 63073 www.studioinnstalbans.com

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ESSENTIALGUIDE A list of local businesses to make planning your wedding in the St. Louis metropolitan area easier

CONTENTS Accommodations

218

Alterations

218

Bachelorette Parties

218

Beauty & Health

218

Bridal Gowns & Salons

219

Bridal Shows

219 219

Calligraphers

220

Caterers

220

Ceremony Sites

220

Consultants/Event Planners

221

Decorations

221

Destination Weddings

221

Favors

221

Financial Planner/Realtors

222

Florists

222

Formalwear

222

Foundations & Lingerie

222

Gifts

223

Gown Preservation

224

Honeymoons

225

Invitations/Stationers

225

Jewelry

225

Lighting & Décor

226

Mother of the Bride

226

Music & Entertainment

227

Officiants

228

Online Planning

228

Photobooths

228

Photographers

229

Reception Sites

208

Registry

231

Rehearsal Dinner Sites

231

Rentals

236

Special Touches

236

Transportation

236

Videographers

236

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©cindy lee Photography

Cakes & Confections

FALL 2014 trunk show calendar It’s not a fashion show. It’s not for every bride. But it may be where you find the dress of your dreams. ✦ Fleur de lis bridal boutique 314.721.2457 Homa Bridal, July 9-19 Liancarlo, July 11-13 Elizabeth Fillmore, August 22-24 Modern Trousseau, September 19-21 Judd Waddell, November 28-30

✦ BERRYBRIDGE

©jon koch Photography

314.99.1439 Anna Maier, July 11-12 Vera Wang, September 4-6 Carolina Herrera, October TBD

✦ Town and Country Bridal Boutique 314.863.7200 Monique Lhuillier, August 22-23 Bliss by Monique Lhuillier, August 29-30 Augusta Jones, November 21-22

✦ Simply Elegant Bridal 314.241.8201 Alvina Valenta Fall 2014 & Ti Adora Spring 2014, June 20-21 Meg Jewelry, Meet the designer, July 25-26 Ti Adora Fall 2014, August 22-23 Alvina Valenta Fall 2014 & Ti Adora Fall 2014, September 12-13

✦ champagne lace & bridal 618.345.5223 Social Occasion Sale, July 19-August 19 Venus Bridal, August 22-31

✦ brides by demetrios 314.721.7400 Couture 2015, July 18-20 Orea-Sposa, August 8-10 Demetrios 2015, September 19-21 Cosmobella 2015, October 24-26 Orea-Sposa, November 14-16 Cosmobella 2015, December 12-14

Please visit bridestl.com for a current list of trunk show dates.

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Essential Guide

ACCOMMODATIONS

HILTON ST. LOUIS AT THE BALLPARK One South Broadway 314-421-1776 www.hiltonstlouis.com

SHERATON WESTPORT PLAZA & LAKESIDE CHALET 314-878-1500 www.sheratonwestport.com

CHARLES F. KNIGHT CENTER Washington University One Brookings Drive 314.933.9400 www.olin.wustl.edu/knightcenter

HOLIDAY INN ROUTE 66 10709 Watson Road 314-821-6600 www.hiroute66.com

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION HOTEL 1820 Market Street 314-621-5262 www.stlunionstationhotel.com

THE CHESHIRE SAINT LOUIS 6300 Clayton Road 314-647-7300 www.cheshirestl.com

HOLIDAY INN SOUTH COUNTY CENTER 6921 South Lindbergh Blvd 314-892-3600 www.holidayinn.com

WESTIN ST. LOUIS 811 Spruce Street, Downtown 314-621-2000 www.westin.com

CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL ST. LOUIS AIRPORT 11228 Lone Eagle Dr. 314-291-6700 www.cphotelstlouis.com

HOLIDAY INN – ST. LOUIS/FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS 618-212-1300 www.histlouishotel.com

Also see RECEPTION SITES listings on page 208

CROWNE PLAZA DOWNTOWN ST. LOUIS 200 North Fourth Street 314-436-8051 www.crowneplaza.com/stlouisdt DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield 636-532-5000 www.doubletree3.hilton.com DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 1000 Eastport Plaza Drive, Collinsville 618-345-2800 www.doubletree.hilton.com/collinsville DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 1973 CraigshireRoad, Westport 314-434-0100 www.doubletreewestport.com DRURY INN & SUITES I-44 and Hampton Avenue 866-377-2034 www.druryhotels.com DRURY PLAZA CHESTERFIELD 355 Chesterfield Center East 866-377-2034 www.druryhotels.com DRURY PLAZA HOTEL-AT THE ARCH 2 South 4th Sreet, Downtown 866-377-2034 www.druryhotels.com FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON 319 Fountains Parkway Fairview Heights Il 618-622-9500 www.fourpointstlouis.com FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SAINT LOUIS 999 North Second Street, 63102 314-881-5800 www.fourseasons.com/stlouis

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HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS AT THE ARCH 315 Chestnut, Downtown 314-655-1234 www.stlouisarch.hyatt.com LODGE AT GRANT’S TRAIL 4398 Hoffmeister Ave., Lemay 314-638-3340 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com MAGNOLIA HOTEL 421 North 8th Street www.magnoliahotels.com MARRIOTT ST. LOUIS AIRPORT 10700 Pear Tree Drive 314-423-9700 www.marriottstlairport.com MOONRISE HOTEL 6177 Delmar Blvd.

314-721-1111 www.moonrisehotel.com PEAR TREE INN UNION STATION 2211 Market Street, Downtown 866-377-2024 www.druryhotels.cm THE RITZ-CARLTON ST. LOUIS 100 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton 314-863-6300 www.ritzcarlton.com SEVEN GABLES INN 26 N. Meramec 314-863-8400 www.sevengablesinn.com SHERATON ST. LOUIS CITY CENTER 400 South 14th Street 314-231-5007 www.sheratonstlouiscitycenter.com/weddings

ALTERATIONS MONTELEONE’S FINE TAILORING 10285 Clayton Road 314-991-1933

BACHELORETTE PARTIES/ BRIDAL SHOWERS BIG DADDY’S 118 Morgan Street 314-621-6700 www.bigdaddystl.com CHARLES P. STANLEY CIGAR CO. 1000 Washington Ave. 314-436-3500 www.stanleycigarco.com DIERBERG’S SCHOOL OF COOKING CULINARY EVENT CENTER 1080 Lindemann Road, Des Peres 314-238-0440 moorm@dierbergs.com FLAMINGO BOWL 1117 Washington Avenue, Downtown 314-436-6666 www.flamingobowl.com

BEAUTY & HEALTH human art, LLC jessicadana.com IT WORKS! Beth Barr — 314.265.2126 www.inspiretoskinnywrap.myitworks.com LOOKS BY LISA 314-229-1964 www.looksbylisa.com MANE ATTRACTION HAIR STUDIO BOUTIQUE & SPA 618-344-3778 www.maneattractionhairstudio.com

PIXIES HAIR DESIGN 2512 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood 314-605-8417 www.pixieshairdesign.com studio napoli www.johnnapoli.com

BRIDAL GOWNS & SALONS BELLA BRIDESMAIDS 13428 Clayton Road 314-205-1191 www.bellabridesmaids.com BERRYBRIDGE 9904 Clayton Road, Suite A - Ladue 314-997-1439 www.berrybridgebridal.com CHAMPAGNE & LACE BRIDAL 1600 Vandalia Avenue, Collinsville 618.345.5223 www.champagneandlacebridal.com FLEUR DE LIS BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 8109 Maryland Avenue, Clayton 314-721-2457 www.fleurdelisbridal.com FREW’S BRIDAL SALON 305 Piasa St. Alton, IL 877-274-3321 www.bestbridalprices.com SIMPLY ELEGANT BRIDAL 1004 Olive Street, Downtown 314-241-8201 www.simplyelegantbridalstl.com TOWN AND COUNTRY BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 8809 Ladue Road 314-863-7200 www.townandcountrybride.com THE ULTIMATE BRIDE 1115 S. Big Bend Blvd.

314-961-9997 www.theultimatebride.com

BRIDAL SHOWS SUMMER WEDDING CONNECTION 2014 Sunday, July 20, 2014, 12-4:00pm St. Louis Union Station Hotel 314-588-8313 for advanced reservations www.bridestl.com WINTER WEDDING CONNECTION Sunday, January 11, 2015, 1-4:30pm Chase Park Plaza 314-588-8313 for advanced reservations www.bridestl.com

CAKES & CONFECTIONS Also see SPECIAL TOUCHES ARTISTRY ON CAKES 618-355-0000 www.artistryoncakes.com THE CAKERY 1420 Tamm Ave., Dogtown 314-647-6000 www.thecakerybakery.net COLD STONE CREAMERY 3228 Green Mount Crossing Drive, Shiloh, IL 2100 Troy Road, Suite 101, Edwardsville, IL #7 Ronnie’s Plaza, St. Louis 618-567-6000 www.coldstone-rockymountaincatering.com THE CUP 1590 Clarkson Road, Chesterfield 636-536-2287 28 Maryland Plaza, Central West End 314-367-6111 1057 Century Drive, Edwardsville, IL 618-656-2287 www.cravethecup.com ENCORE BAKING COMPANY 2730 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood 314-832-4303 www.encorebaking.com LUBELEY’S BAKERY & DELI, INC. 7815 Watson Rd., Shrewsbury 314-961-7160 www.lubeleysbakery.com NADOZ EURO BAKERY & CAFE Coronado Ballroom Location 3701 Lindell Boulevard 314-446-6800 #12 The Boulevard St. Louis, Brentwood 314-726-3100 17089 N. Outer Forty Road- Taubman Prestige Outlets 636-536-4100 www.nadozcafe.com SARAH’S CAKE SHOP 10 Clarkson Wilson Centre, Chesterfield 636-728-1140 www.sarahscakeshopstl.com

S ain t L o u is B ride

Quick Tip:

NAIL POLISH Nails should never compete with your dress or ring. A natural beige or French manicure are perfect choices. If you want color, put it on your tootsies!

FALL/WINTER 2014 • www.bridestl.com

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Essential Guide

SUGAREE BAKING CO. 1242 Tamm Ave 314-645-5496 www.sugareebaking.com

ROY-EL CATERING 8000 Concordia Church Rd., Belleville 618-476-7722 www.royel.com

THE SWEET DIVINE 1801 S. 9th Street, Soulard 636-942-2900 www.thesweetdivine.com

RUSSO’S GOURMET CATERING 9904 Page Avenue 314-427-6771 www.russosgroumet.com

WEDDING WONDERLAND 449 Dunn Road 314.837.5015 www.weddingwonderlandcakes.com

STEVEN BECKER FINE DINING 3701 Lindell Boulevard 314-367-4848 www.stevenbeckerfd.com

CALLIGRAPHERS

VILLA FAROTTO 636-519-0048 www.villafarotto.com

CALLIGRAPHICS 636-441-7225 www.calligraphics.info

CATERERS

WILD FLOWER RESTAURANT & CATERING Laclede Avenue – Central West End 314-361-8282 www.wildflowerstl.com

Also see REHEARSAL DINNER on page 231 and the RECEPTION SITES grid on page 208. Please note that many of the restaurants listed here may also be able to help you with small, intimate wedding receptions.

WILDSMOKE HOUSE 12316 Olive Blvd.

314-548-2222 www.wildsmokehouse.com

BUTLER’S PANTRY 314-664-7680 www.butlerspantry.com CATERING ST. LOUIS 314-961-7588 x221 www.cateringstlouis.com

ZIA’S 5256 Wilson at Edwards on The Hill 314-776-0020 www.zias.com

CEREMONY SITES See RECEPTION SITES listings on page 208.

CES & JUDY'S CATERING 314-991-6700 www.cesandjudys.com HOLLYBERRY CATERING 284 East Avenue 314-968-9239 www.hollyberrycatering.com ORLANDO’S CATERING 4300 Hoffmeister 8352 Watson Road 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza 314-638-6660 www.orlandogardens.com THE PASTA HOUSE COMPANY CATERING 2200 59th Street 314-644-1400 www.thepastahouse.com/catering/ PATTY LONG CATERING 1808 S. Ninth, Soulard 314-621-9598 www.pattylongcatering.com

OLD PEACE CHAPEL AT THE HISTORIC DANIEL BOONE HOME Hwy F, Defiance 636.798.2005 Www.danielboonehome.com

Sa i n t Lo u i s B r i d e

Quick Tip: HIRING A CATERER Many caterers are often booked twelve months in advance. Try to book yours once you've pinpointed a date. Remember, some reception sites may have a preferred vendor list for you to choose your caterer from.

220

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CONSULTANTS & EVENT PLANNERS ABSOLUTELY IN 314-315-1775 www.absolutelyin.com ALLISON KATE EVENTS 618-560-6756 www.allisonkateevents.com ALRED WEDDING CONSULTANTS, INC. 636-922-4778 www.alredweddingconsultants.com BEFORE I DO 314-640-2123 www.beforeidostl.com BRIDE’S VISION WEDDINGS AND EVENTS 314-580-2381 www.bridesvision.com CAROLYN BURKE – WEDDING LIAISON 314-821-4844 www.weddingliaison.com

DECORATIONS EXCLUSIVE EVENTS 13633 Lakefront Drive, Earth City 314-995-7282 www.exclusiveeventsinc.com PARTY CITY 10861 Old Halls Ferry Road, St. Louis 314-867-6850 10790 Sunset Hills Plaza, St. Louis 314-821-8580 9612 Olive Boulevard, Olivette 314-692-0996 13952 Manchester Road, Ballwin 636-207-8188 15425 Manchester Road, Ballwin 636-227-3558 2560 Lemay Ferry Road, St. Louis 314-892-2117 9815 Watson Road, St. Louis 314-909-0552 www.partycity.com SIGNATURE SETTINGS 314-222-7601 www.signaturesettings.com

COSMOPOLITAN EVENTS 314-249-9107 www.cosmopolitanevents.com

DESTINATION WEDDINGS

KATE & CO. 314-403-2018 www.kateandcollc.com

AMBASSADOR TRAVEL & CRUISES 618-234-1046 www.4ambassadortravel.com

KRISTIN ASHLEY EVENTS 618-946-0936 www.kristinashleyevents.com

GO TRAVEL 636.458.8844 Www.gostravelstl.com

LACY BRANCH EVENTS 314-884-1129 618-710-0400 www.lacybranchevents.com

TRAVEL HAUS OF ST. LOUIS 11231 Concord Village Ave., 63123 314-842-7313 www.travelhausstlouis.com

LUCKY YOU 314-210-7764 www.luckyyoustl.com

FAVORS

SIMCHA’S EVENTS 314-458-5463 www.simchasevents.com ST. LOUIS WEDDING CONSULTANTS 636-236-9359 www.stlweddingconsultants.net

DANCE INSTRUCTION GABRIELLE’S STEP BY STEP DANCE STUDIO 310 E. Main St., Belleville, IL 618-340-1694 www.ballroomdancetoday.com

See CAKES & CONFECTIONS, GIFTS AND STATIONERS THE CUP 1590 Clarkson Road, Chesterfield 636-536-2287 28 Maryland Plaza, Central West End 314-367-6111 1057 Century Drive, Edwardsville, IL 618-656-2287 www.cravethecup.com {FAVORABLY} SWEET 618-792-1429 www.favorablysweet.com GIFTS 636-458-2439 www.giftsstlouis.com

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Essential Guide

HOLLYBERRY BAKING 284 East Avenue 314-968-9239 www.hollyberrybaking.com

FINANCIAL PLANNER/ REALTORS I TAKE THIS HOME 314-677-6120 Facebook.com/itakethishome

FLORISTS ARTISTRY 2734 LaSalle Street, St. Louis 314-772-1301 www.artistryflorist.com

THE REBEL FLORIST 314.962.3232 www.therebelflorist.com SISTERS FLORAL DESIGN STUDIO 314-821-0076 www.sistersflowers.net SCHNUCKS FLORIST & GIFTS 9220 Shortline Drive 314-997-2444 www.schnucks.com/floral WILDFLOWERS 1013 Ohio, St. Louis 314-772-9900 www.wildflowersstl.com

FORMALWEAR Also see BRIDAL GOWNS & SALONS

BUSE'S FLOWER & GIFT SHOP 333 First Capitol Drive, St. Charles 636-724-0148 www.busesflowershop.com BELLI FIORI—FLORAL DESIGN STUDIO 2705 LaSalle Street 314-776-2200 www.bellifioristl.com BOTANICALS DESIGN STUDIO 3014 South Grand Ave 314-772-7674 www.botanicalsdesignstudio.com THE CRIMSON PETAL 314-578-5363 www.thecrimsonpetal.net CULLOP JENNINGS FLORIST 618-344-0404 www.cullopjennings.com FESTIVE COUTURE FLORAL 8314 Olive Blvd.

314-481-1501 www.festivestl.com THE FLOWER SHOP AT THE CHASE PARK PLAZA 212 N. Kingshighway Blvd. S 208 314-633-6910 www.flowersatthechase.com

222

SAVVI FORMALWEAR See locations below. www.savviwedding.com Galleria, 314-727-0088 South County, 314-894-2991 Mid Rivers Mall, 636-970-2281 St. Clair Square, 618-632-8415 Alton Square, 618-465-1110 6185 Delmar Blvd., 314-725-2150 West County Center, 314-821-0070 Columbia Mall, 573-445-6602 Chesterfield Mall, 636-532-1800 White Oak Mall, 217-787-8150 STALLONE’S FORMAL WEAR See locations below. www.stallonesformalwear.com Chesterfield, 636-519-7111 Ladue, 314-997-8900 Maryland Heights, 314-576-5900 Sunset Hills, 314-729-0004 O’Fallon, 636-272-4799 WILLARD’S FORMAL WEAR 618-632-6200 www.willardsformalwear.com

FOUNDATIONS & LINGERIE ANN’S BRA AND LINGERIE SHOP 13471-75 Olive Street Rd., Chesterfield 314-878-4144

LES BOUQUETS 7905 Big Bend (Dale entrance), Webster Groves 314-395-8335 www.lesbouquets.com

CLAIR DE LUNE 9727 Clayton Road 314-993-3232 www.clairdelunelingerie.com

POPPIES DESIGN STUDIO 314-368-7760 618-281-7091 www.poppiesdesignstudio.com

SUGAR MAGNOLIA 33 North Gore Ave., Webster Groves 314-395-9159 www.sugar-magnolia.com

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GIFTS—ATTENDANT GIFTS, FAVORS, HOSPITALITY BAGS AND ACCESSORIES Also see BRIDAL REGISTRY, FLORISTS, JEWELERS and STATIONERS THE DESIGNING BLOCK 7735 Clayton Road, Clayton 314-721-4224 www.thedesigningblock.net EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OVATION 8829 Ladue Road, Ladue 314-727-6464 www.extravirginoo.com GIFTS 636-458-2439 www.giftsstlouis.com IBELLA BEADS 770 N. New Ballas Road 314-567-1928 www.ibellabeads.com THE INITIAL DESIGN 25 North Gore Ave., Webster Groves 314-968-8300 www.theinitialdesignstl.com INITIALS, INC 314-614-1772 www.nameyourbag.com IVY HILL 8335 Ladue Road, Ladue 314-721-7004 304 North Euclid, Central West End 314-367-7004 www.ivyhillboutique.com

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Quick Tip: EMERGENCY KIT Creating your own emergency kit is easy. You can do it ahead of time and have it ready to tote along.

Pack the following items in a pretty cosmetic bag: aspirin, bobby pins and safety pins, oil blotting tissues, deodorant (trial size), hairspray (trial size), nail clipper and emery board, clear nail polish, baby powder (trial size), nylons, band-aids, tampons, sewing kit (buttons, needle & thread), tweezers and brush on super glue.

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M. HALEY DESIGN 314-308-4743 www.mhaleydesign.com MELANIE’S 10277 Clayton Road, Ladue 314-993-0664 www.welanies-stlouis.com POPtions! POPCORN 1580 S. Lindbergh Blvd.

636-812-2385 www.poptionspopcorn.com PULSE 1644 Clarkson Road, Chesterfield 636-519-4022 www.pulsestl.com SIGNATURE SETTINGS 314-222-7601 www.signaturesettings.com THE SILVER LADY 4736 McPherson Avenue 314-367-7587 6364 Delmar Blvd.

314-727-0704 www.thesilver-lady.com

GOWN PRESERVATION RAM LEATHER CARE 8720 St. Charles Rock Rd., Overland 314-429-5115 www.ramleather.com

GIFT SUGGESTIONS We asked wedding planners, married couples, and people who have traveled for weddings to list their favorite items to give and receive. ❏ Handwritten note ❏ Bottle of water ❏ Itinerary ❏ Snacks ❏ Gum ❏ Mints ❏ Map ❏ Where Magazine ❏ Lip Balm ❏ Anything local, such as food or souvenirs

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HONEYMOONS AMBASSADOR TRAVEL & CRUISES 618.234.1046 Www.4ambassadortravel.com GO TRAVEL 636.458.8844 Www.gotravelstl.com TRAVEL HAUS OF ST. LOUIS 11231 Concord Village Ave., 63123 314-842-7313 www.travelhausstlouis.com

INVITATIONS/STATIONERS BETSEY N CO. CREATIVE 636-283-0456 www.betsynco.com M. HALEY DESIGN 636-352-2102 www.mhaleydesign.com PAPER PATCH 12009 Manchester Road 314.821.6561 www.paperpatchinvitesyou.com THE SERVICE BUREAU 9973 Clayton Road, 63124 314.991.1104 www.stlservicebureau.org TWO BLUE DOORS 75 W. Lockwood, Ste. 203, Webster Groves 314-968-4033 www.twobluedoors.com VELLUM 120 W. Monroe, Kirkwood 314-909-1640 www.velluminc.com

JEWELRY Also see GIFTS CURT PARKER JEWELERS 10192 Conway Road, Ladue 314-989-9909 www.curtparker.com IBELLA BEADS 770 N. New Ballas Rd. 314.567.1928 www.ibellabeads.com LADY BUG BEADS 7616 Big Bend Blvd.

314-644-6140 www.ladybugbeads.net

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PACE FARIAS COLLECTIONS 266 Plaza Frontenac 314-983-0781 www.pacefariascollections.com RACHEL’S DESIGN 9495 Olive 314-991-0994 www.rachelsdesign.com REINIGER JEWELERS 2704 N. Illinois St., Swansea, IL 618-235-1219 911 N. Illinois Route 3, Waterloo, IL 618-939-4367 www.reinigerjewelers.com SIMONS JEWELERS 8141 Maryland Avenue 314-725-8888 www.simonsjewelers.com SUTTON LASATER JEWELRY 314-308-5592 www.suttonlasater.com TIMEKEEPERS 17 N. Meramec, Clayton 314-721-4548 9495 Olive, Olivette 314-991-0994 www.timekeepersstl.com www.timekeepersclayton.com

LIGHTING & DÉCOR ALOBAR’S INC 716 Hanley Industrial Court 314-781-7600 www.alobars.com EXCLUSIVE EVENTS 13633 Lakefront Drive, Earth City 314-995-7282 www.exclusiveeventsinc.com MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood 314-918-9335 www.millenniumproductions.com

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE/ SPECIAL OCCASION Also see BRIDAL GOWNS DISTINCTIONS Westgate Shopping Centre 12354 Olive Blvd.

314-434-5445 www.distinctionsinfashion.com FREW’S BRIDAL SALON 305 Piasa St., Alton, IL 877-274-3321 www.bestbridalprices.com

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NEIMAN MARCUS Plaza Frontenac 314-567-9811 SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Plaza Frontenac 314-567-9200 SIMPLY ELEGANT BRIDAL 1004 Olive Street, Downtown 314-241-8201 www.simplyelegantbridalstl.com THE VAULT 2325 S. Brentwood Blvd.

314-736-6511 www.womensclosetexchange.net WOMEN’S CLOSET EXCHANGE 11575 Gravois Road 314-842-8405 www.womensclosetexchange.net

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT COMPLETE MUSIC DISC JOCKEY SERVICE 314-991-5656 www.completestlouis.com CJ’S DISC JOCKEY 314-892-0329 www.cjsdiscjockeyservice.com DOWNTIME PRODUCTIONS 314-452-2848 www.downtime-productions.com FANTASY 314-452-2848 www.stlfantasyband.com HAWKINS ENTERTAINMENT 314-529-1854 www.meganhawkins.org MANHASSET STRINGS 636-537-0405 www.manhassetstrings.com MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood 314-918-9335 www.millenniumproductions.com MUSIC BOX BAND 314-239-8032 www.musicboxtheband.com NIGHT MAGIC ENTERTAINMENT 1324 Lebanon Ave, Belleville, IL 618-235-5800 or 314-602-5800 www.nightmagicentertainment.com PUSH THE LIMIT 314-452-2848 www.pushthelimitband.com

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ROCK STAR DJ’S 314-518-2407 www.rockstardjstl.com THE ROSEWOOD ENSEMBLE 314-609-0702 www.rosewood-ensemble.com SLAM 314-452-2848 www.slamstl.com THE SPECTRUM BAND 314-434-7153 www.spectrumband.net TKO DJ’S 314.647.3000 www.tko-djs.com THE X BAND 314-452-2848 www.thexbandstl.com STEEL DRUM FLAVOR 314-485-9541 www.steeldrumflavor.com

OFFICIANTS ALL COUPLES MARRIED 314-781-0444 www.allcouplesmarried.com CAROLYN BURKE - WEDDING LIASION 314-821-4844 www.weddingliaison.com THE MONASTERY 3910 Old Hwy 94 South, Suite 120 St. Charles 636-345-6535 www.themonastery.vpweb.com

ONLINE PLANNING BRIDAL ELITE www.bridalelite.com SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE www.bridestl.com THE BOULEVARD www.theboulevard.com

PHOTOBOOTHS CAPTURE POD 618-580-6536 www.capturepodstl.com FISH EYE FUN 314-621-8638 www.fisheyefun.com

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MARQUIS PHOTOBOOTH 314-365-9118 www.marquisphotobooth.com MCMUSIC PHOTOBOOTH SERVICES 618-604-9671 www.mcmusicdj.com SHUTTERBOOTH 618-973-1894 www.shutterbooth.com STL BOOTHS 314-400-8485 www.stlbooths.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS ABBIE TAKES PICTURES 314-616-2794 www.AbbieTakesPictures.com CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY 101 East Main Street 618-570-0323 www.conner-photography.com JOEL MARION PHOTOGRAPHY 636-861-2400 www.joelmarionphoto.com JON KOCH PHOTOGRAPHY 314.497.8308 www.kochphotography.net JUNE HALLOWELL PHOTOGRAPHY 618-667-7771 www.reflectionsbyjune.com KELLY PARK PHOTOGRAPHY 314-570-7413 www.kellyparkphotography.com

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Quick Tip: SELECTING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER Most photographers have websites.

This is a great way for you to preview their work and get a glimpse of their overall style before you set an appointment to meet them and see their portfolio.

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KURTIS HALL PHOTOGRAPHER 314-323-0811 www.kurtishall.com L PHOTOGRAPHIE 314-265-3786 www.lphotographie.com L’AMORE ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY 314.707.3539 www.lamorerose.com MEMORIES ARE FOREVER 314-878-5657 www.memoriesareforever.com NICHE PHOTOGRAPHY 618.772.9959 www.niche-photography.com PHOTO ELEGANCE 636.561.4012 www.phelegance.com STUDIO 50 PHOTOGRAPHY 510 W Hwy 50, O’Fallon, IL 618-632-3921 www.studio50photo.com xoxo, alice 808-258-9064 xoxoalice.com YOUR STORY PHOTOART 314.603.7814 www.ysstudios.com ZETTL PHOTOGRAPHY LTD. 314-454-6612 www.zettlphoto.com

ARE YOU REGISTERED? As soon as you've set the wedding date, you can begin your bridal registry—experts recommend starting four to six months before the wedding. Start by taking an inventory of what you already have, then create a wish-list of what you need and want. Make an appointment with a bridal registry consultant at a major department store or specialty shop that carries the items on your list. Choose items in a variety of price ranges so your guests can shop within their means.

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RECEPTION SITES See RECEPTION SITE LISTINGS on Page 208.

REGISTRY CRATE AND BARREL 1 The Boulevard (Brentwood and Galleria Parkway) 314-725-6380 www.crateandbarrel.com DILLARD’S GIFT REGISTRY St. Clair Square 618-632-5000 ext. 5735 www.dillards.com MACY’S Store locations below.

1-800-835-9716 Alton, 618-463-4100 Chesterfield, 636-532-3800 Galleria, 314-726-1810 MidRivers, 636-278-6660 South County, 314-892-0110 St. Clair, 618-624-2000 West County Center, 314-966-0017 www.macys.weddingchannel.com POTTERY BARN Plaza Frontenac (Lindbergh and Clayton) 314-996-2630 www.potterybarn.com WILLIAMS SONOMA Plaza Frontenac (Clayton and Lindbergh) 314-567-9211 www.williams-sonoma.com

REHEARSAL DINNERS, SHOWERS & BRUNCHES Also see RECEPTION SITE GRID on Page 208 and CATERERS beginning on page 220.

AERIE’S TERRACE & LODGING 800 Timber Ridge Dr., Grafton, IL 618-786-8439 www.aerieswinery.com BALABAN’S 1772 Clarkson Rd., Chesterfield 636-449-6700 www.balabanswine.com BISHOPS POST RESTAURANT 16125 Chesterfield Pkwy West, Chesterfield 636-536-9404 www.bishopspost.com BIXBY’S AT THE MISSOURI HISTORY MUSEUM Forest Park 314-454-3151 www.butlerspantry.com

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BOATHOUSE – FOREST PARK 6101 Government Drive 314-367-2224 www.boathouseforestpark.com BRADSHAW ROOM 3701 Lindell 314-367-4848 www.thecoronado.com BUSCH STADIUM SPECIAL EVENTS 700 Clark Street 314-345-9357 www.cardinals.com/events CAFÉ EAU / CHASE PARK PLAZA 212 N. Kingshighway, Central West End 314-454-9000 www.chaseparkplaza.com CHANDLER HILL VINEYARDS 596 Defiance Road 636-798-2675 www.chandlerhillvineyards.com CHARLIE GITTO’S “ON THE HILL” 5226 Shaw Ave. 314-772-8898 www.charliegittos.com CITY COTTAGE ON CHOUTEAU 314-961-7588 www.cateringstlouis.com CROWNE PLAZA DOWNTOWN ST. LOUIS 200 North Fourth Street 314-436-8051 www.crowneplaza.com/stlouisdt CYRANO’S CAFÉ 603 E. Lockwood Ave. Webster Grooves 314-963-3232 www.cyranos.com EDGEWILD RESTAURANT & WINERY 550 Chesterfield Center 636-532-0550 www.edgewildwinery.com FAROTTO’S 314-962-0048 www.farottos.com FLAMINGO BOWL 1117 Washington Avenue, Downtown 314-436-6666 www.flamingobowl.com FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR 1855 S. Lindbergh Blvd.

314-567-7610 www.flemingssteakhouse.com THE GARDENS AT MALMAISON 3519 St. Albans Road, St. Albans, MO 636-458-0131 www.gardensmalmaison.com

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GATEWAY ARCH RIVERBOATS 314-923-3047 www.gatewayarch.com GUIDO’S 5046 Shaw Ave., The Hill 314-771-4900 www.guidosstl.com HISTORIC SAPPINGTON HOUSE 1015 S Sappington Road, Crestwood 314-822-8171 www.sappingtonhouse.org HODAKS 2100 Gravois Ave. 314-776-7292 www.hodaks.com HOLIDAY INN ROUTE 66 10709 Watson Road 314-821-6600 www.holidayinn.com JOE BUCK’S/J BUCKS 1000 Clark Ave., Downtown 314-436-0394 101 S. Hanley, Clayton 314-725-4700 www.jbucks.com KEMOLL’S TOP OF THE MET One Metropolitan Plaza 314-421-0555 www.kemolls.com KEMP AUTO MUSEUM 16955 Chesterfield Airport Road, Chesterfield 636-537-1718 www.kempmuseumservices.com LEMP MANSION 3322 Demenil Place 314-664-8024 www.lempmansion.com

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Quick Tip: REHEARSAL DINNER INVITES The rehearsal dinner invitations should go out about one month in advance of the wedding, but make sure the wedding invitations have been sent first.

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LLYWELYN’S PUB Multiple Saint Louis Area Locations 1.855.BCELTIC www.llywelynspub.com THE LODGE AT GRANT’S TRAIL

BY ORLANDOS 4398 Hoffmeister 314-638-3340 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com LUCAS PARK GRILLE & MARKET 1234 Washington Avenue, 63103 314-241-7770 www.lucasparkgrille.com MAGGIANO’S #2 The Boulevard St. Louis 314-824-2410 www.maggianos.com MAMA’S ON THE HILL 2132 Edwards 314-776-3100 www.mamasonthehill.com MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S 17 West County Center 314-909-0250 www.mccormickandschmicks.com MORGAN STREET BREWERY 721 North Second Street 314-231-9970 www.morganstreetbrewery.com MUSEUM OF TRANSPORTATION 3015 Barrett Station Road, Kirkwood 314-965-6885 www.transportmuseumassociation.org NATHALIE’S 4356 Lindell Blvd 314-533-1580 www.nathaliesstl.com NATIONAL SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF THE SNOWS 442 S. Demazendo Dr., Belleville 618-397-6700 / 314-241-3400 www.snows.org THE NEST 10440 German Blvd 314-942-3521 www.theneststl.com NOBOLEIS VINEYARDS 100 Hemsath Road Augusta 636-482-4500 www.noboleisvineyards.com OLD HICKORY GOLF CLUB #1 Dye Club Drive 636-477-8960 www.oldhickorygc.com

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OLIVA ON THE HILL 4915 Daggett Street 314-961-7588 www.cateringstlouis.com PANORAMA AT THE SAINT LOUIS ART MUSEUM One Fine Arts Drive, 63110 314.655.5490 www.slam.org/dining PAPPY’S SMOKEHOUSE 3106 Olive Street 314-535-4340 www.pappyssmokehouse.com RIGAZZI’S 4945 Daggett, The Hill 314-772-4900 www.rigazzis.com RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Brentwood & Forsyth – Clayton 314-783-9900 Hyatt Riverfront Hotel - Downtown 314-259-3200 www.ruthschrisstlouis.com SPAZIO WESTPORT 12031 Lackland Road 314-427-6771 www.russosgourmet.com STEFANO’S 504 N. 10th Street 314-241-7722 www.stefanos10thst.com SUNSET HILLS COUNTRY CLUB 2525 Hwy 157 South Edwardsville 618-656-9380 www.sunsethillscountryclub.com UPSTAIRS AT THE CHESHIRE 6300 Clayton Road 314-932-7818 www.upstairs-stl.com VILLA FAROTTO 636-519-0048 www.villafarotto.com WILD FLOWER RESTAURANT & CATERING Laclede Avenue – Central West End 314-361-8282 www.wildflowerstl.com ZIA’S – ON THE HILL 5256 Wilson Ave. 314.776.0020 www.zias.com

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A-1 PARTY & WEDDING RENTAL, INC 618-343-1680 www.a1partyandwedding.com ALL SEASONS LINEN RENTAL, INC. 314.983.0090 www.allseasonslinen.com ALOBAR’S INC 716 Hanley Industrial Court 314-781-7600 www.alobars.com THE ARIES COMPANY 4940 Northrup Avenue 314-664-6610 www.ariescompany.com EXCLUSIVE EVENTS 13633 Lakefront Drive, Earth City 314-995-7282 www.exclusiveeventsinc.com GRAND RENTAL STATION 570 Rudder Rd., Fenton 636-343-PARTY (7278) www.grandrental-stl.com MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood 314-918-9335 www.millennium-productions.com PARTY ARTS 3252 Laclede Station Road 314-781-1400 www.party-arts.com PORTABLE WATER CLOSET 314-293-1800 www.portablewatercloset.com SITTING PRETTY 3252 Laclede Station Road 314-781-1400 www.imsittingpretty.com TRAUBE TENT COMPANY 314-647-8368 www.traubetent.com WEINHARDT PARTY RENTALS 11601 Manchester Rd., DesPeres 5901 Elizabeth Ave., St. Louis 314-822-9000 www.weinhardtpartyrentals.com

SPECIAL TOUCHES ALOBAR’S INC. 716 Hanley Industrial Court 314-781-7600 www.alobars.com

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CHOCOLATE FOUNTAIN AFFAIR 636-230-6763 www.chocolatefountainaffair.com

BEST WEB REGISTRIES Wedding registries are like wedding

POPtions! POPCORN 1580 S. Lindbergh Blvd.

636-812-2385 www.poptionspopcorn.com

gowns—there are hundreds out there, if not thousands, so how can you tell which one’s right for you?

Luckily, you don’t have to; unlike

TRANSPORTATION

wedding gowns, you can have as many registries as you want. Here’s

ALL ABOUT YOU LIMOS 618.281.2200 www.aaylimos.com

our short list of online registries we would (and have!) used ourselves and recommended to friends.

JED LIMOUSINE 11100 Linpage Place 314-429-2200 www.jedlimousine.com MID-AMERICAN COACHES 866.944.8687 www.mid-americancoaches.net PRESIDENTIAL LIMOUSINES 636.451.3600 www.prezlimos.com

Honeyfund.com Hands down the best honeymoon registry out there—mainly because it’s the only one that doesn’t take a cut of your incoming cash! There’s also no sign-up fee, and no pressure to use a particular travel-booking site for your itinerary. Not sure where you want to go? The site

VIDEOGRAPHERS

offers loads of suggestions, plus examples of real-couple registries.

COMPLETE VIDEO 11100 Olive Blvd.

314-991-5656 www.completestlouis.com CREATIVE VIDEO SERVICES, LLC 314-317-9228 www.creativevideostl.com KEVIN HARDER VIDEOGRAPHY 314.894.3311 www.kevinhardervideo.com LIFETIME MEDIA 8140 Brentwood Industrial Dr. 314-481-4754 www.weddingsbylifetime.com MILLENNIUM VIDEO 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood 314-918-9335 www.millenniumproductions.com SKYGUY MEDIA 314-699-4759 www.skyguymedia.com

Findgift.com

TJ'S VIDEO CAFÉ 618.407.9247 www.tjsvideocafe.com

aggregates gift requests from as

WESTVIEW MEDIA 149 N. Meramec, Clayton 314-726-6222 www.westviewmedia.com

guests will appreciate the technolo-

Old-fashioned meets newfangled on this site, where your online registry many different stores as you desire— even those without websites! Your gy, too; if they buy one of your listed

©shutterstock/haveseen

RENTALS

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items from an unlisted merchant, they can still cross it off your list.

MyRegistry.com This site also lets you list countless merchants, but with the added bonus of easy, free cash-giving.

Along with your material items, the registry can note a special fund given the name of your choice.

(Betsy’s Start-Up Business? Our Future Kids’ College Funds?) Guests can give in any amount, either directly by credit card or via PayPal. (But note that, if they pay PayPal with a credit card instead of directly from a checking account, that site will take a small commission.)

IDoFoundation.org You love the idea of the charity registry but you also love stand mixers and stainless steel flatware. The I Do Foundation solves your crisis of ©SHUTTERSTOCK/MARILYN BARBONE

conscience. Set up your registry on the site—which partners with everybody-loves-’em stores like Target, Amazon and Williams-Sonoma, plus a few specialty and travel sites—and those merchants will donate up to 10 percent of the cost or your purchased goods to the charity of your choice. Everybody wins!

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Style

That Perfect Something

Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

— A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION —

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That Perfect Something

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That Perfect Something

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Style

That Perfect Something

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Rehearsals, Brunches & Showers A Special Advertising Section Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

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Marketplace Caterers & rehearsal dinner

OFFICIATES

Transportation

Villa Farotto We offer full service catering at 15 venues and can also cater at other locations of your choice.

We cover every detail such as rentals, flowers, entertainment, and of course menu selection and type of service. We have two restaurant locations for rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and showers. Call us to setup a tasting and we can assist you with venue selection at the same time. www.villafarotto.com 17417 Chesterfield Airport Rd, Chesterfield MO 63005 636-519-0048

The Monastery Let us work with you planning your perfect Wedding Ceremony, Non-Denominational, and Catholic, at the venue of your choice. Experienced Ministers to help you with the perfect celebration. www.themonastery.vp.com 636-345-6535

All About You Limo All About You Limos is simply your best value in luxury transportation. We serve the entire St. Louis & Metro East area and beyond. St. Louis’ largest and most diverse party bus fleet. www.aaylimos.com 618.281.2200

ENTERTAINMENT/MUSIC CJ’s Disc Jockey Service Your Vision & Style. Your Dream Come True.

Professional Entertainment for Your Celebration. www.cjsdiscjockeyservice.com 5013 Warren Road, Imperial, MO 63052 314-892-0329 Complete Weddings + Events North America’s solution for Weddings + Special Event services. Offering a one stop shop for DJ, Photo, Video, MEGA Photo Booth and Up-Lighting to make your event a complete experience! Visit our new location at 11100 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141 www.CompleteStLouis.com 314-991-5656 / 800-369-3535 Hawkins Entertainment Providing your ceremony and reception needs with harp and disc jockey services. Ask us about our illuminated monogram service for your big day. bhawkins4194@gmail.com megrhawkins@gmail.com 314.529.1854 Music Box Music Box is a seven piece high energy variety dance band designed to perform all the music of your life. They will perform your cocktail, dinner and dance music to perfection! www.musicboxtheband.com 314-239-8032 Rockstar DJs Have the reception your guests rave about for years to come! Relax and enjoy your reception with the most talented, professional DJs in the St. Louis area. rockstardjstl.com 314-518-2407 Spectrum Band.

St. Louis’ Premier Variety Dance Band. Voted “Best Band in St. Louis” by local wedding experts for two years in a row! Great web site including schedule.

14140 Conway Road 314-434-7153 www.spectrumband.net TKO DJs Over 30 years in business.

Every TKO wedding reception is custom-tailored to each couple’s wishes.Visit our website: TKO-DJs.com 314-647-3000

flowers Buse’s Flower and Gift Shop, Inc. At Buse’s, we believe that every wedding is unique and should be custom-designed to your specifications. We pride ourselves in making your vision a reality. We also believe in quality in our service and designs, which is why we use only the freshest premium-grade flowers in all of your floral accessories. Call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation. We are your St. Charles Wedding Floral Specialists! www.busesflowershop.com 333 First Capitol Drive, St. Charles, MO 63303 636.724.0148

Outdoor rentals Portable Water Closet Elegantly designed portable restrooms. Perfect for outdoor weddings and events. www.portablewatercloset.com PO Box 510851 St. Louis, MO 63151 314.293.1800

PHOTO booth rental Marquis Photo Booth Make your event even more memorable with a photo booth! Mention this ad for $100.00 off 3 or more hours. www.marquisphotobooth.com 314.365.9118 STL Booths Wedding Receptions • Bridal Showers Unmatched quality • Unbeatable price Unforgettable memories The STL Booths Experience is as simple as 1,2,3!

1. Push 2. Pose 3. Print www.stlbooths.com 314-400-8485 Info@stlbooths.com

PHOTOGRAPHY Conner Photography Artistic. Relational. Documentary.

You need photos that are set apart and mindblowing. You need us. www.conner-photography.com 101 East Main St. Collinsville, IL 62234 618.570.0323 Memories Are Forever Offers a mix of photojournalistic style images with traditional photography. www.memoriesareforever.com 1568 Ross Ave St. Louis, MO 63146 314-878-5657

Real Estate I Take This Home Let our expert team of professionals help you find your first home! Katie Ross and Nicki Moss of Keller Williams Realty, and Peter Wright of Essex Mortgage, have a combined 40 years of experience in the Real Estate and Lending fields.

314-677-6120 itakethishome@gmail.com www.facebook.com/itakethishome

special touches POPtions! Popcorn A POPtions! popcorn bar or favors are sweet, savory, spicy and fun additions to your wedding reception. www.poptionspopcorn.com 1580 South Lindbergh Blvd St. Louis, MO 63131 636.812.2385

Mid-American Coaches A family owned and operated business, founded in 1927. Our fleet of luxury motor coaches includes such amenities as a restroom, air-conditioned ride, multiple video systems, as well as WIFI on request.

We are members of the Int. Motor Coach Group and American Bus Assn. We also enjoy the highest governmental safety ratings! www.mid-americancoaches.net 866-944-8687 Presidential Limousines Serving Missouri & Illinois. Ride in style in our stretch Camaro, SUV limos or party buses for weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthdays, anniversaries, nights on the town or other special occasions. www.prezlimos.com Facebook.com/PrezLimos 636.451.3600

travel GO TRAVEL STL Specializes in Personal Service and Expert Advice for Destination Weddings, Honeymoons, and Leisure Travel planning. We craft perfect Honeymoons by matching “YOU” to the one perfect destination and unique resort that best fits your Dreams, Style & Budget. Let GO TRAVEL STL help “YOU” find your Dream Honeymoon!

Don’t Go Without…GO TRAVEL! www.GoTravelStl.com 636-458-8844 Susan@GoTravelSTL.com

Venues The Barnett On Washington The Barnett On Washington is a premier St. Louis wedding venue. It features an elegant design and breathtaking atmosphere. www.barnettonwashington.com 3207 Washington Boulevard St. Louis, MO 63103 1-844-GO-BARNETT THE LOFT at Lucerne THE LOFT is a one-of-a-kind stylish event space where urban loft meets rustic charm, offering flexibility when customizing your event, your way. Unique packages include on-site wedding coordination team, customized preferred catering services and much more. www.theloftatlucerne.com 930 Kehrs Mill Road, Ste. 201 Ballwin, MO 63011 314.401.3798

VIDEOGRAPHY Creative Video Services Voted the best video company by St. Louis Brides, we create works of art in a discreet and professional manner capturing every emotion so you can enjoy it forever in the highest quality video and sound.

International Award Winners. Discreet, Elegant, Distinctive and Creative. www.creativevideostl.com 314.317.9228

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unveiled!

catching up with the insiders who make St. Louis weddings work

(left) kurtis hall; (right) ©carmody photo

St. Louis Bride Magazine Launch Party February 5th

weinhardt party rentals Showcase Event March 26th

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(top) white klump photography; (bottom) mark borella

Kate & Co. Open House February 13th

hollyberry catering Private Event May 20th

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parting shot

Emilie Morris & Robert Garwitz

• May 16, 2014

©kate and company

greenbriar hills country club

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