St. Louis Bride Spring/Summer 2014

SPRING/SUMMER 2012 • www.bridestl.com

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from the editor

Anything Goes If one thing is certain about brides today, it’s this—anything goes. Brides are wearing white, ivory, gold and even pink dresses. Cakes can be the tallest of towers or as small as cupcakes. And, who can leave out wedding pie? Roses, orchids, baby’s breath, fruit, and even pinecones are being spotted in bridal bouquets of every shape and size. Guest lists are both long and short.

Reception venues run the gamut from elaborate hotel ballrooms to imaginative farm and park settings to the bride’s own backyard.

Emily and Adam Harrow (page 36) included their beloved dogs on their wedding day. Kayla Nahorski (page 52) and her bridesmaids wore cowboy boots. Both Lauren and Mark Callen (p 68) and Susan and Kevin Werner (page 54) had their wedding ceremonies and receptions on farms. If there was one common thread woven throughout our featured real weddings, it’s that each of our twenty-five couples personalized their wedding day in some way.

St. Louis Bride Stephanie Fingland (page 48) said it best when I asked her what advice she could pass on to other planning brides. “Make everything personal to you.

Don’t try so hard to have the perfect Pinterest wedding if it doesn’t mean something to you because that won’t stay with you in the long run. Twenty years from now, you can look back at your wedding and say that the things you did were special because they were important to you and your husband.”

Whether you consider yourself to be a hopeless romantic, classy chic or wall flower, you’re sure to find something in our pages that will tickle your

Nancy L. Slade, Editor

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

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©ABBIE TAKES PICTURES

fancy or inspire you to do something outside the conventional wedding box.

CONTENTS SPRING/SUMMER 2014

FEATURES 110

DYNAMIC DUOS Seventeen floral artists show off their prettiest of pairs

146

THE RULING CLASSICS Blue blood mixes with white gowns in a ceremonial manor

REAL WEDDINGS REAL MOMENTS 25 couples tie the knot

©ABBIE TAKES PICTURES

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CONTENTS TIPS & TRENDS 30

AROUND TOWN

84

M.O.B. STYLE

86

SITES TO BEHOLD Nine reception venues

92

PERSONALLY YOURS A guide to gift giving

110

106

BRIDAL WEEK

162

ON THE RUNWAY

180

ASK ANNA Q&A with etiquette expert Anna Post

186

98

WHAT'S GOING TO BE ON YOUR PLATE? Top wedding food trends

205

SHORT, SWEET AND SIMPLE More couples are choosing elopement for a romantic and intimate wedding experience

186 254

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

PLANNING

162

98

THE CARRIBEAN'S CALLING Getting us closer to the sun and schedule-free

174

IF I HAD A DO-OVER What Brides would do differently now

176

AFTER THE PARTY Keep the romance going when you finally get be be alone

178

ARE WE THERE YET? Planning for your honeymoon

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

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TRUNK SHOW CALENDAR

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:

www.facebook.com/stl.bride http://twitter.com/STLBRIDE

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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 Graphic Designers 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

working behind the scenes

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“Getting to modernize the decadent 20's bouquets and decor and to step back in time to create this, while honoring the past vintage of this beautiful era, was a true honor.”

—KELLY JUROTICH

Owner and Head Designer of the Crimson Petal, she has been in the floral business since 2006.

“Being part of this shoot was truly the “bee’s knees.” 20’s era anything is a personal favorite of mine. Add to that the English Garden feel, and I was as giddy as a flapper at her first dance. Getting to modernize the decadent 20’s bouquets and decor and to step back in time to create this, while honoring the past vintage of this beautiful era, was a true honor.”

2 ASHLEY SELZ Ashley graduated from the National Academy of Beauty Arts in 2008. She works in Arnold at a family friendly salon called O’Daisy Salon and Spa. 24

“This was my first photo shoot and I was excited to be a part of the behind the scenes magic along side of some very creative, talented people.”

3 ABBIE RUDOLPH Abbie Rudolph transitioned into a full-time photographer in 2009 when she opened Abbie Takes Pictures. This is her first cover and fashion shoot for Saint Louis Bride.

“I am incredibly proud of the finished product in this issue. Working with my “Dream Team” of vendors was like a dream come true!”

4 YARA HOLT Yara is the owner and lead consultant for Plume Events. A St. Louis transplant, she has planned and designed events professionally for six years. “Working with this team

WWW.BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2014

was incredible, our models were stunning and our theme allowed us all to be creative and add a modern touch to the 20s. I really enjoyed all the details and the styling that went into this shoot.”

5 LISA LIPSITZ Lisa is the owner of Looks by Lisa & Co and partner in St. Louis Bridal Hair and Makeup. She has been in the beauty industry for over 20 years in with 12 years devoted specifically to bridal makeup. “I loved the shoot! The Mansion was stunning along with the models and dresses.” This is Lisa’s fifth fashion spread for Saint Louis Bride.

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 bouquets and boutonieres on pages 110 to 144.

7 LACY BRANCH The owner and chief event stylist of Lacy Branch Events, an event styling and planning company, Lacy wrote our Bridal Fashion Week feature.

This is Lacy’s third contribution to Saint Louis Bride.

(PHOTOS 1-5) ©ABBIE TAKES PICTURES

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on the cover

THE DRESS: Alvina Valenta gown features ruched, satin sweetheart bodice and beaded skirt, $4,400 from Simply Elegant Bridal THE JEWELS: Pearl and rhinestone headband

by LaSposa, $250 from Simply Elegant Bridal; “Elsie” pendant necklace, $55 by Dream Day Designs; 1920’s 14k white gold filagree diamond ring, $1,695 from Timekeepers BOUQUET: Romantic English Bouquet of Anemones, Roses, Ranunculus, Succulents and Ferns by Kelly Jurotich of The Crimson Petal THE CAR: From the private collection of Brian Tanner LOCATION: Magic Chef Mansion

Model: Lauren Griffin, West Model & Talent Management • Florist: Kelly Jurotich, The Crimson Petal • Photographer: Abbie Rudolph, Abbie Takes Pictures • Stylist: Yara Holt, Plume Events • Hair: Ashley Selz, St. Louis Bridal Hair & Makeup • Makeup: Lisa Lipsitz, Looks by Lisa & St. Louis Bridal Hair & Makeup

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around town

New and noteworthy happenings in and around St. Louis

MOVERS & SHAKERS âœŚ Town and Country Bridal Boutique (for-

merly located Plaza Frontenac) has moved to a new location in Ladue at 8809 Ladue Road, 314.863.7200, townandcountrybride.com âœŚ The Cup has opened a new location

in Chesterfield at 1590 Clarkson Road, 636.536.2287, cravethecup.com âœŚ Poppies Design Studio (formerly Becky

Huffman Flowers) has a new studio in Columbia, Illinois at 126 South Main Street, by appointment only, poppiesdesignstudio.com âœŚ Clair de lune, a new lingerie boutique,

has opened at 9727 Clayton Road in Ladue, 314.993.3232, clairdelunelingerie.com

GOT SPIRITS?

âœŚ Pixies Hair Design opened their new loca-

Check out Still 360 Indomitable Spirits at 1000 South 4th Street, Chouteau’s Landing, for spirits and groomsmen gifts. Distillery tours and tastings available, call 314.513.2275, still630.com

tion at 2512 Sutton Boulevard in Maplewood, 314.605.8417, pixieshairdesign.com

HIGH TEA The Nest's High Tea Room available for showers, lunches, and high tea, of course. From the

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ARTS EXPLOSION Dive into culture at exhibits, theater, concerts, festivals and more

Menu samplings from St. Louis restaurants

GET SPOOKED: LOCAL HAUNTS TO LOVE

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GET AROUND

RETRO COOL: MID-CENTURY FURNISHINGS

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.

Congrats Congratulations to Cheryl Tefft of Calligraphics whose calligraphy and artwork were awarded Best in Show (the top honor) of the National Graceful Envelope Contest. The contest has been held for 20+ years and is judged by a calligraphy guild and the organization that represents US letter carriers. This year's theme was â&#x20AC;&#x153;A World of Changeâ&#x20AC;? and entrants had to include the postage stamp as well. Congrats, Cheryl!

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pink velvet couches to the crystal chandeliers, this room would make Marie Antoinette want to eat cake! 10440 German Boulevard in Frontenac, 314.942.3521, theneststl.com

Real Moments Abigail Sims & Brandon Hull November 1, 2013 Photographed by switzerfilm

HOW THEY MET Abby and Brandon met through mutual friends in downtown St. Louis. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Brandon surprised Abby by putting the ring on a ribbon around their dog Louie’s neck. It took Abby awhile to realize what was going on until Brandon finally said “What is that on Louie’s neck?” That night he also surprised her with a limo to a nice dinner in Chicago and to see the musical Les Miserables at the Cadillac Theater. NUMBER OF GUESTS 150 WEDDING COLORS red, gray, navy, bright orange The menu Dual entree of pan seared filet of beef with cabernet sauce and Sun-dried tomato and herb ricotta stuffed chicken breast with piped basil whipped potatoes. HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT They wanted a St. Louis influence, so they provided St. Louis themed snack favors for their guests: Switzer’s licorice, Dad’s famous cookies, chocolate arches, Billy Goat chips, etc. Then, for a late night snack, they had Imo’s pizza and Gus’ pretzels. Wedding favors Goodies For Guests FIRST DANCE “All This Time” by OneRepublic GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

“My most memorable moment was the First Look. When I turned around and there she was, I was speechless!

She looked amazing, and I will never forget how she looked and the smile on her face.” Occupations: Brandon is a periodontist and Abby is registered dental hygienist. HONEYMOON Las Vegas, Paris, Monaco, Rome RESIDE Rockford, IL adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE “Get a wedding planner! There is no use in stressing over all the details that your planner knows all the answers to!”

Wedding consultant/Event Designer: Lacy Branch Events • Florist: Belli Fiori • Bride’s dress: Allure Couture Collection, Simply Elegant Bridal • Groom’s attire: Stallone’s Formal Wear • Bride’s and Bridesmaids hair & makeup: Tami Scott Studio • Bridesmaid dresses: Bill Levkoff, Elegant Brides, Edwardsville, IL • Wedding location: Renaissance Grand St Louis, Statler Ballroom • Reception venue: Renaissance Grand St Louis, Crystal Ballroom • Cake: Sarah’s Cake Shop • Music: American Idle (reception); The Rosewood Ensemble (ceremony) • Specialty lighting and décor: Millennium Productions • RUNNER: The Original Runner Company Rentals: The Aries Company • Paper goods: Two Blue Doors, Inc. • Videographer: Switzerfilm

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Real Moments Emily Henselmeier & Adam Harrow May 25, 2013 Photographed by abbie takes pictures

How they met Emily

and Adam met their freshman year of college How they got engaged Adam planned a surprise proposal while hiking the Little Si in the foothills of the Cascades. Number of guests 175 Wedding colors: Coral, Turquoise, Gold, Ivory The menu Miniature crab cakes with lemon aioli; mushroom caps stuffed with boursin cheese; filet of beef tenderloin; chicken boursin served with wild mushroom risotto and seasonal vegetables How they personalized the event Their dogs were a part of the ceremony. They chose to do a tree ceremony in place of a unity candle (their mothers brought soil from the homes they grew up in, and they watered the tree.) They hope to plant the tree in the yard of their first purchased home. Wedding favors S’mores, magnets made from caps of the bride and grooms’ favorite craft beer and a donation to the Emergency Feeding Program of King County. First dance “Hysteric” (acoustic version) by Yeah Yeah Yeahs Bride’s most memorable moment

“Our pastor skipped over the exchanging of the rings. At the end of the ceremony we kissed and the pastor gave the final blessing and we were ready to march down the aisle until my sister, the Maid of Honor, spoke up and said ‘uh, Pastor Jeff, you forgot the rings.’ We all had a good laugh, exchanged the rings and got to kiss AGAIN!” Occupations Emily is the Director of Youth and Family Ministries at Saint Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue, WA and Adam is an Aquatic Specialist/Environmental Scientist at Aquatechnex in Lynnwood, WA Honeymoon Excellence Playa Mujeres, Mexico Reside Issaquah, WA Advice for brides-to-be “Be sure to plan more for your marriage than for your wedding.”

Wedding consultant: Lucky You Productions • Florist: Flowers to the People • Bride’s dress: Enzoni, Simply Elegant Bridal Groom’s attire: Z Zenga, Nordstrom • Bridesmaid dresses: Dessy, Bellevue Bridal (Bellevue, WA) • Wedding & Reception location: Gardens at Malmaison, St. Albans, MO • Dessert: Pies from Sugaree Baking Company • Specialty lighting and décor: Worn Vintage (designed center pieces), Build a Basket (designed baskets) • Rentals: Worn Vintage • Paper goods: Bride's brother • Photobooth: Abbie Takes Pictures • Videographer: Smiley Productions

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Real Moments Katherine Derickson & Alexander Grewach July 27, 2013 Photographed by kelly pratt Photography

How they met “I met Alex when I was 15 years old. I went to high school with his younger sister, so we first met when she invited me over to her house for a party freshman year.” How they got engaged Alex planned a surprise proposal for Katherine. Number of guests 200 Wedding colors Ivory, gold, cream, taupe The menu Chicken piccata and broiled New York strip with rosemary jus, accompanied by fully loaded potato cake and roasted seasonal vegetables. Wedding favors Black and white tuxedo box and Ivory gown favor box, filled with Jordan almonds. First dance “Marry Song”

by Band of Horses Bride’s most memorable moment “All of the dancing at the reception, the floor stayed full the whole night. I love dancing, so I was definitely in my element getting to dance with everyone.” Groom’s most memorable moment “The best man’s speech, he did an amazing job in a high pressure situation.” Occupations Katie is a Pharmacist for Target. Alex is a Distribution System Controller for Laclede Gas. Reside O’Fallon, MO Advice for brides-to-be “Relax and have the wedding that’s right for you, don’t let anyone force you into decisions you are not comfortable with because it just creates extra stress and no one remembers the little details once the big day arrives anyway.”

Florist: Sisters Floral Design Studio • Bride’s dress: Augusta Jones, Town and Country Bridal Boutique • Groom’s attire: Savvi Formal Wear • Bride’s makeup: Emily Miller • Bridesmaid dresses: Watters, Brides by Demetrios • Wedding & Reception location: The Coronado • Caterer: Stephen Becker Fine Dining • Cake: The Cakery • music: The Rosewood Ensemble (ceremony), Millennium Productions (reception) • Specialty lighting and décor: Millennium Productions • Linens: Sitting Pretty • Paper goods: Vellum Transportation: JED Transportation • Videographer: Millennium Productions

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Real Moments Leslie Harris & Chris Rizzotti August 24, 2013 Photographed by Keith Lee studios

Leslie sent Chris a drink at Big Daddy’s in Soulard when she was in town from MIZZOU. They stayed in touch after she returned to school and began dating after she graduated. How they got engaged Chris surprised Leslie with an engagement over Valentine’s Day. Number of guests 225 Wedding colors Ivory, Gold, Blush Pink Wedding favors A bottle of Mad Crush white wine First dance “It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw & Faith Hill Bride’s most memorable moment “Chris and I ran into the vineyards for pictures right as the fireworks began.” Groom’s most memorable moment “Surprising my new bride with a white Rolls Royce limo to take us back to the hotel following the reception. She had no clue it was coming!” Occupations Leslie is a Home Lending Officer with Citibank, N.A. Chris is an Account Executive for Omni Cable Corporation Honeymoon Honolulu, Maui, and Kauai Reside Chicago, IL Advice for brides-to-be Don’t purchase your dress and plan the small details too early!

How they met

Wedding consultant: Kate & Company, LLC • Florist: Sister’s Floral Design Studio • Bride’s dress: Enzoani • Groom’s attire: Stallone’s Formalwear • Bridesmaid dresses: Bella Bridesmaid • Wedding & Reception location: Chandler Hill Vineyards Cake: The Cakery Bakery • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events • Rentals: Exclusive Events • Reception Paper Goods: Two Blue Doors • Music: The Rosewood Ensemble (ceremony); DJ Needles (reception) • Transportation: GEM Transportation

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Real Moments Phuong Lam & Ben Ireland May 4, 2013 Photographed by His and hers photography, washington d.c.

Introduced by mutual friends. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Ben planned a surprise engagement for Phuong NUMBER OF GUESTS 400 WEDDING COLORS blush pink, gray, ivory HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT “We had a mix of East and West—traditional Chinese Lion Dance and Tea Ceremony, but also Western traditions. We also wanted to make the wedding feel like a big party, so we avoided anything too formal—we started the dancing right away at the reception.”

FIRST DANCE “Wouldn’t it Be Nice”

by The Beach Boys Wedding favors Candy Bar BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT “After I walked down the aisle and realized that we had forgotten the rings.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT “Having to chug a beer and do 20 push-ups in order to retrieve the bride from a locked room (Chinese custom called “Fetch the Bride”).

Occupations Phuong is the Director of Brand Development, Bath and Body Works Ben is SVP & CFO of Nielsen Ad Solutions HONEYMOON Fiji RESIDE New York, NY adVICE FOR BRIDES-TOBE “Some little details you think are so important during the planning phase will not be noticed during the wedding, so make sure you’re focusing on the important stuff that your guests will notice and appreciate.” Any other news to share since your wedding? Phuong and Ben are expecting a baby!

HOW THEY MET

Wedding consultant: Alred Wedding Consultants • Florist: Artistry Florist • Bride’s dress: Rivini, Kleinfeld’s Bridal • Groom’s attire: Ermenegildo Zegna, Barney’s New York • Bride’s & Bridesmaids' hair & makeup: Daniellestyle • Bridesmaid dresses: Donna Morgan Wedding location: Chase Park Plaza • Reception venue: Chase Park Plaza Khorassan Room • Cake: The Cakery • MUSIC: Rosewood Ensemble (ceremony); Groovethang (reception); DJ Ted Keys from Columbus OH (reception) • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events • Linens: BBJ Linens • Paper goods: M. Haley Design • Photobooth: Fisheye Fun • Videographer: Millennium Productions

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Real Moments Jessica Longenecker & Ryan Ballheimer June 29, 2013 Photographed by Heather roth photography

Number of guests 175 The menu Blueberry BBQ glazed chicken, grassfed beef tenderloin with chimichurri sauce, locally grown fresh grilled vegetable medley, quinoa rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, garden salad, and rolls. Dessert bar: lemon bars, brownies, salted caramel tarts, chocolate covered pretzel sticks, and assorted candies. How they personalized the event Our wedding was personalized with a lot of small touches made by the bride and close friends. Our programs were fans, our guestbook was a large tree created by the brides art teacher with a leaf for each guest to sign. We surprised our guests with a firework display partway through the night. First dance “Let’s Stay Together” (Maroon 5 remake) Groom’s most memorable moment The ceremony led by Pastor Jimmy Cooper was my most memorable moment. It was so very personal and he made every person there feel very much a part of the ceremony through laughter and personal stories. Occupations Jessica is a Kindergarten Teacher and Ryan is a Fixed Income Broker and Landscape Designer. Honeymoon Secrets Maroma Beach Mexico Reside St. Charles, MO Advice for brides-to-be “I am sure so many brides say not to sweat the small stuff, but it is so very true!

Something will go wrong, and that is okay, because in the grand scheme of the night it will not matter at all! The night will go by so very fast, so slow down and savor every moment and memory.

And, make sure you get to eat some of your dessert!” Any other news to share since your wedding?

Ryan and Jessica are expecting a baby, due in April.

Florist: Peacock Blooms • Bride’s dress: Val Stefani Couture by Moonlight, Wedding Gallery Couture • Groom’s attire: Boss Suit, Nordstrom • Wedding location: Overlook Farm • Reception venue: Avalon Hall at Overlook Farm • Cake: Overlook Farm music: Live Music by Casey Reeves (ceremony); DJ from Millennium Productions (reception)

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Real Moments Alyssa Stangel & Phillip Billingsley April 20, 2013 Photographed by cindy lee Photography

HOW THEY MET Alyssa and Phil met while working at the Drunken Fish.

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Their first date was to see The Black Angels play at Off Broadway. It had been several years since they played St. Louis and when they finally did again, Phil proposed the night of the concert. NUMBER OF GUESTS 120 WEDDING COLORS Multicolor The menu Braised short ribs osso buco and salmon with garlic whipped potatoes and green beans HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT Guests were asked to sign a Black Angels record instead of a guestbook. A friend of the bride also hand-painted an aisle runner to match the wedding theme of whimsical Art Nouveau. Wedding favors Multi-colored jelly beans FIRST DANCE Beck’s Record Club covering INXS “Never Tear Us Apart” BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT “Seeing Phil at the end of the aisle for the first time.”

GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

“First Dance.” Occupations Alyssa is a pharmacist and Phil is a server at ~Scape. Honeymoon Jamaica RESIDE Dogtown adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE “Just relax and everything will come together.”

Florist: Stems • Bride’s dress: Olia Zavozina, Simply Elegant Bridal • Groom’s attire: Savvi Formalwear • Bridesmaid dresses: Bill Levkoff, Wedding Gallery • Wedding & Reception location: 9th Street Abbey • Caterer: Patty Long Catering Cake: Cupcakes from The Blue Owl • Specialty lighting and décor: Allegro Entertainment • aisle runner: Kathie Zutz • Music: Allegro Entertainment

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Real Moments Stephanie Spindel & Andrew Fingland June 1, 2013 Photographed by salvatore cincotta Photography

At a Mizzou football game in Columbia, Missouri HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Andy planned an elaborate surprise proposal for Stephanie in New Orleans. NUMBER OF GUESTS 120 WEDDING COLORS Black, gold, and ivory First dance: “God gave me you” by Blake Shelton How they personalized the event: Since we got engaged in New Orleans, we decided to add some French flair to our wedding, full of delicate lace and elegance, but with a modern twist. Our favorite thing we saw while we were in New Orleans was a “second line parade” with a jazz street band. In New Orleans, it is custom for the bride and groom to lead a parade of their bridal party and wedding attendants through the streets, dancing along to the music of a jazz band. We thought it was so much fun that we decided to have one of our own!

We hired a local jazz band and made custom handkerchiefs for our guests to wave during the celebration. Bride’s most memorable moment: “The ceremony.

My favorite part was our rose presentation to Mary when the cantor sang, ‘Ave Maria.’” Occupations: Andy is a public accountant. Stephanie is a pediatric nurse, studying to be a pediatric nurse practitioner. Honeymoon: Kauai, Hawaii.

Reside: Tulsa, Oklahoma.Advice for brides-to-be: “Make everything personal to you. Don’t try so hard to have the perfect Pinterest wedding if it doesn’t mean something to you because that won’t stay with you in the long run. Twenty years from now, you can look back at your wedding and say that the things you did were special because they were important to you and your husband.”

HOW THEY MET

Wedding consultant: Kristin Ashley Events • FlorisT: Belli Fiori • Bride’s dress: Maggie Sottero, Hope’s Bridal (Davenport, IA) Groom’s attire: Savvi Formalwear • Bridesmaid dresses: Dessy Collection • Wedding location: Saint Louis Cathedral Basilica Reception venue: Hyatt Regency at the Arch • Dessert: Crepe bar • MUSIC: DJ Greasy (reception); Saint Louis Stompers (Jazz band for parade and cocktail hour); Saint Louis Cathedral Basilica choir (ceremony music) • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events Linens: BBJ Linen • Rentals: The Aries Company • Paper goods: Pretty Together • Transportation: Best Transportation Videographer: Salvatore Cincotta Videography

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Real Moments Gabrielle Hertweck & Andrew Kalkbrenner October 19, 2013 Photographed by Jon Koch Photography

How they met Although they attended the same high school, Gabe and Drew didn’t meet until the summer after Gabe graduated in 2005. How they got engaged Drew planned a surprise engagement dinner in St. James, Missouri on their way to the Lake of the Ozarks. Number of guests 335 Wedding colors Purple, Gold, and Ivory The menu Petite beef tenderloin & potato crusted halibut; haricot vert green beans, parmesan herb risotto How they personalized the event Drew wore two photo pins next to his boutonniere in memory of his grandfather and best friend.Wedding favors In lieu of party favors donations were made to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, the American Stroke Association, and the Wounded Warrior Project First dance “I Need You” by Tim McGraw Bride’s most memorable moment

“After we were announced Mr. and Mrs. Kalkbrenner at the ceremony, we turned to face our family and friends. Everyone started cheering and at that moment I felt so much love and happiness for the two of us.” Groom’s most memorable moment “Throughout the whole wedding process, I kept asking Gabe for hints about her dress and what she was going to look like. I had an image in my head, but once those doors opened and I saw her for the first time, I could have never imagined something so beautiful.” Occupations Drew is a crane operator for Budrovich.

Gabe is a technology sales rep for World Wide Technology Honeymoon St. Lucia Reside Brentwood, Missouri Advice for brides-to-be “The day will go by in a flash so be sure to take a moment, just the two of you, sit back, take everything in, and realize that all of the planning and stressing turned into such a beautiful amazing day.”

Wedding consultant: Sarah Grus Weddings • Florist: Artistry • Bride’s dress: Augusta Jones, Town and Country Bridal Boutique Groom’s attire: Men’s Warehouse • Bridesmaid dresses: Dessy Collection, Bella Bridesmaid • Wedding location: Concordia Lutheran Church • Reception venue: Chase Park Plaza, Khorassan Ballroom • Cake: Sugaree Baking Company • music: Concordia Pianist; Friend of Bride and Groom was the soloist (ceremony); Charles Glenn Band (reception) • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events • Paper goods: Two Blue Doors • Transportation: Fun Tyme Limousine

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Real Moments Kayla Wade & Michael Nahorski August 3, 2013 Photographed by amy meyerott Photography

How they met We

met working at an ice cream shop named Sheridan's Frozen Custard in May of 2005. How they got engaged Mike planned a surprise engagement for Kayla Number of guests 175 Wedding colors Turquoise and Coral The menu Food stations: chicken/ cheese quesadilla sliders, toasted ravioli, mozzarella sticks, marinara mushroom caps, crab cakes, spinach spanakopita.

Dessert Station: cake pops, glitter bites, fruit kabobs, passed cookies (on top of shot glasses filled with milk). How they personalized the event I designed the save the date card to look like a football ticket (since we are such big Green Bay Packers fans). We added various personal touches: the football bride and groom cake topper personalized with correct hair colors, my garter was Packers and we did the garter toss to the NFL theme song, and we had the football that we used in some of our save the date pictures at the reception for guests to sign. Wedding favors Bissingers 4-piece chocolate gift sampler First dance “Bless the Broken Road” by Rascal Flatts Bride’s most memorable moment Seeing Mike during the first look. I will never forget the look of pure happiness that was on his face. Occupations Kayla is a Project Coordinator at Group360 Worldwide.

Mike works at a financial firm in downtown St. Louis. Honeymoon Sandals Royal Bahamian (Nassau, Bahamas) Reside Town & Country Advice for brides-to-be “Try to enjoy every single moment because the day really does fly by.

Hire a planner. It will be the best money you spend because it takes so many of the stresses out of the day and you (and your family) can truly focus on what is important instead of worrying about the details.”

Wedding consultant: Kate & Company • Florist: Poppies Design Studio • Bride’s dress: Allure Couture, Simply Elegant Bridal Groom’s attire: Stallone’s Formal Wear • Bridesmaid Dresses: Amsale, Bella Bridesmaid • Wedding location: St. Francis Xavier Cathedral • Reception venue: Meadowbrook Country Club • Cake: Sarah’s Cake Shop • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events • Rentals: The Aries Company (chairs) • Paper goods: Pickle Prints • Music: Millennium Productions • Ice Sculpture: Ice Visions Transportation: Perfect Touch Limo • Videographer: Millennium Productions

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Real Moments Susan Jacobsmeyer & Kevin Werner September 7, 2013 Photographed by white-klump Photography

How they met Kickball

league in Tower Grove Park. How they got engaged Kevin planned a surprise proposal while in Sonoma Valley, California. Number of guests 200 Wedding colors Peach and navy The menu Apple smoked beef brisket with cider au jus; white cheddar macaroni and cheese; edamame succotash; Desserts: Assorted dessert bar with mini pies, cookies, mousse shots, and wedding cake and s’more station served by the bon fire. How they personalized the event The bride and groom incorporated a 1878 map of where Kuh’s Farm now sits into many of the paper goods, such as the background for the save the dates and the envelope liner for the invitations.

The map included several plots of land owned by Jacobsmeyers. Susan and Kevin wanted to frame the aisle in a unique way.

The couple purchased doors at the Habitat for Humanity Re-store, which Kevin then painted in chalkboard paint. Susan painted the doors to include a welcome message and a thank you to the guests as well as a listing of the wedding party. Kevin brewed and bottled the beer that served as the guests’ “escort cards.” The couple recruited the help and expertise of their friends and family; with a dear friend officiating, friend Adam Foster making the groom’s ring, and another friend baking the wedding cake. The bride’s mother embroidered the table numbers. First dance “Best Friend” by Queen Occupations Susa is social worker. Kevin is a teacher.

Honeymoon The couple hopes to travel to Europe next Christmas. Reside South Hampton neighborhood Advice for brides-to-be “Your wedding day won’t be perfect, but it’s the imperfections that help to make it memorable. Strive for fun instead of perfection!”

Wedding consultant: St. Louis Wedding Consultants • Florist: Artistry Florist • Bride’s dress: Wolsfelt's Bridals (Aurora, IL) Groom’s attire: Jos. A. Banks • Bridesmaid dresses: David’s Bridal • Wedding and Reception location: Kuh’s Estate and Farm • Caterer: Hollyberry Catering • Cake: Christine Ehrhart • music: Millennium DJ • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events • Linens: BBJ Linen • Rentals: The Aries Company • Paper goods: M. Haley Design • Fireworks: Gateway Fireworks Displays

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Real Moments Julia Murphy & Ryan Haeffele October 5, 2013 Photographed by abbie takes pictures

How they met Through

mutual friends.

Julia is close friends with the (now) wife of a college hockey teammate of Ryan’s.

How they got engaged Ryan took Julia out to dinner at Vin de Set the night before her birthday and he proposed right at the table. The other restaurant patrons were so excited for them! “They clapped and cheered for us after they saw Ryan go down on one knee. Another table even sent champagne over to us. It was fantastic.” Number of guests 185 Wedding colors Gold, fuschia, orange The menu Mixed grill of grilled filet mignon with a port wine reduction and herb marinated grilled chicken with rosé cream sauce, served with zucchini cup with ratatouille filling and truffle mashed potatoes How they personalized the event “We used the menu as a way to put a big personal touch on the evening.

The menu was created based on some of our favorite flavors. We also knew we had to incorporate our furry children into the day, our Boston Terriers, Frankie and Pepper. We created drink stir tags that included a picture of a Boston Terrier drinking a cocktail. There were also incredibly adorable Boston Terrier cake pops at our dessert table.” First dance “You are the Sunshine of My Life” by Stevie Wonder and “Rock with You” by Michael Jackson Bride’s most memorable moment “Our first look on the rooftop terrace at the Hyatt.” Groom’s most memorable moment “Seeing Julia come down the aisle.” Occupations Julia is an Event Sales Manager for Patty Long Catering. Ryan is a Sales Representative for Enterprise. Honeymoon Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Reside St. Louis County Advice for brides-to-be “Hire great vendors! A fabulous team of vendors equals a fabulous wedding.”

Wedding consultant: Plume Events • Florist: Les Bouquets • Bride’s dress: Casablanca, Simply Elegant Bridal • Groom’s attire: Stallone’s Formalwear • Bridesmaid dresses: Bill Levkoff, Simply Elegant Bridal • Wedding & Reception location: 9th Street Abbey Caterer: Patty Long Catering • Cake: Cupcakes, cheesecakes and cake pops from The Sweet Divine • Music: Rockstar DJ’s • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events • Linens: Sitting Pretty • Paper goods: Menu cards and programs created by Maid of Honor

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Real Moments Laura Gutierrez & Jason Allen Andrews August 10, 2013 Photographed by clary photo

“We were both out dancing and had a mutual friend who brought us together.” HOw they got engaged Jason planned a surprise proposal for Lauren. Number of guests 144 Wedding colors Coral, green, turquoise The menu Baby spinach and arugula salad, seared filet of beef and pan seared sea bass, wild rice and french lentils, asparagus spears How they personalized the event The couple used the bride’s grandfather's military sword to cut the cake, her greatgrandparent’s Steuben Challis to toast (the third generation to use this glass) and Lauren carried her grandmother’s handkerchief. Wedding favors Gelato Cart and Photobooth First dance “At Last” by Etta James Bride’s most memorable moment “Jason and I took photos beforehand so we met at the spiral stairs at The Chase to ‘see each other for the first time,’—I was nervous as I walked up to him with his back turned to me. When he turned to face me, all the nerves were forgotten and we were able to spend a few moments alone together before all the festivities.”

How they met

Groom’s most memorable moment

“Exchanging vows with my wife and sending giant paper lanterns into the night sky with all our family and friends.

When they got far enough away it looked like a new constellation had been created.” Honeymoon Riviera Maya, Mexico Reside Philadelphia, PA Advice for brides-to-be “Hire a wedding planner! They made the planning process incredibly easy and enjoy the process as much as you enjoy the day.”

Wedding consultant: Bride’s Vision Weddings and Events • Florist: Artistry Florist • Bride’s dress: Enzoani, Maiden Voyage Groom’s attire: Joseph A Banks • Bride’s hair & makeup: Hair By Chrissy, B Makeup • Bridesmaid dresses: Maiden Voyage • Wedding & reception location: Missouri History Museum • Caterer: Butler’s Pantry • Cake: Sugaree • Music: Rosewood Ensemble (ceremony); Gabie (cocktail guitarist); J Rob featuring Jessie Robinson (reception) • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events • Linens: Sitting Pretty Paper goods: Vellum • Photobooth: PhotoboothStL • Transportation: Jed Limousine • Videographer: Westview Media

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Real Moments Stephanie Ackerman & Daniel Rieck July 13, 2013 Photographed by artistic soup

How they met In

college at Washington University in Saint Louis. The bride was on the soccer team and the groom was on the baseball team. How they got engaged Knowing that Christmas is Stephanie’s favorite holiday, Dan surprised Stephanie at a tree lot on Christmas Eve with a beautiful ring and proposal. They celebrated that night with a champagne toast at the Top of the Riverfront looking out over the downtown St. Louis skyline.

Number of guests 140 Wedding colors Coral, silver and slate How they personalized the event Stephanie’s brother, Joseph, officiated the wedding ceremony. Wedding guests wrote marriage advice for the bride and groom, which were read by the bride’s aunt and uncle as part of the ceremony. The bride’s veil was handmade by her mother, Marilyn.

Wedding favors Hershey bars wrapped in custom wedding labels designed by Stephanie’s friend. First dance “You and Me” by Dave Matthews Band Bride’s most memorable moment “Getting ready before the wedding with my bridesmaids and mother.” Groom’s most memorable moment During his speech, the father of the bride presented the groom’s father, a Chicago Cubs fan, with a St. Louis Cardinals hat and t-shirt to welcome him to Cardinal nation. In the spirit of compromise and unconditional love, the bride’s father then stripped off his tuxedo shirt to reveal a Cubs shirt underneath, as a peace offering, to merge the two baseball loving families. Occupations Stephanie is a registered nurse at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Specialty Hospital and Dan is a civil engineer at CDG Engineers.

Honeymoon Eastern Mediterranean Cruise to Italy, Greece and Turkey Reside Webster Groves Advice for brides-to-be “Hire a wedding planner!”

Wedding consultant: Events Luxe • FlorisT: The Crimson Petal • Bride’s dress: Elizabeth James, The Ultimate Bride • Groom’s attire: Savvi Formalwear • Bridesmaid dresses: Bridesmaids chose their own • Wedding location: Graham Chapel, Washington University • Reception venue: The Knight Center, Washington University • Cake: McArthur’s Bakery • Specialty lighting and décor: Millennium Productions • Linens: Cloth Connection • Rentals: Premier Rentals (chairs) • Music: Millennium Productions Photobooth: 2 Chics & a Photoboth • Transportation: Absolute Perfect Touch

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Real Moments Iga Wegorzewska & Benjamin Gray June 1, 2013 Photographed by susan jackson Photography

Through mutual friends. How they got engaged Over a 12-course meal in New York at WD-50 in which Ben surprised Iga by proposing in Polish. Number of guests 205 Wedding colors Coral, antique gold, champagne, white The menu Grilled beef tenderloin with herb basted shrimp, bearnaise sauce, crisp risotto cake, grilled asparagus and corn tomato relish How they personalized the event “Our wedding was a blend of traditional American culture with hints of Polish influence. We incorporated Iga’s Polish culture by including a Polish tradition of having the parents greet the new couple with Bread, Salt, and Wine as they entered the reception.” Wedding favors Macarons with a note “Thank you to our Sweetest Guests” First dance “Sweet Disposition” by Temper Trap Bride’s most memorable momenT “Our first dance was the perfect combination of fun, romance, and getting to show off our new dance moves.”Groom’s most memorable moment “Hearing our names announced and walking into the reception feeling like a celebrity with all of our loving family and friends around us.” Occupations Ben is an orthopaedic surgery resident at Washington University in St. Louis. Iga is an MD/ PhD student at Washington University in St. Louis. Honeymoon Thailand: Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui Reside Central West End Advice for brides-to-be “Get a wedding planner!

Even if you only have them for the day of the wedding, they are life-savers sent from above.”

How they met

Wedding consultant: Cosmopolitan Events • Florist: The Special Event Florist, Tina Barrera • Bride’s dress: Monique Lhuillier, Town and Country Bridal • Groom’s attire: Hugo Boss, Nordstrom • Bride’s & Bridesmaids hair & makeup: Danielle Style • Bridesmaid dresses: Amsale, Town and Country Bridal • Wedding location: Our Lady of Lourdes • Reception venue: The Ritz Carlton • Cake: Ritz Carlton • music: Manhasset Strings (ceremony); First Class DJ’s (reception) • Specialty lighting and décor: The Aries Company • Linens: Party Arts/Sitting Pretty, Weinhardt Party Rentals • Rentals: The Aries Company • Paper goods: Two Blue Doors & Lazare Printing (Chicago, IL) • Photobooth: Gateway Photobooth • Transportation: Best Transportation

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Real Moments Ashley Lautzenheiser & Judson Clark June 29, 2013 Photographed by l photographie

How they met: Judson

and Ashley met while attending Washington University in St. Louis How they got engaged Judson proposed to Ashley on the beach in Carmel, California. Number of guests 100 Wedding colors Navy and pink The menu Herb grilled chicken breast, herb encrusted pork loin, three cheese tortellini with vegetables and pesto cream sauce. How they personalized the event Judson is a private pilot and Ashley loves to cook. The escort cards were tied to airplane cookie cutters. Additionally the guest book was a full size replica propeller that guests signed. Part of the reason the Missouri History Museum was chosen as their venue was the replica Spirit of St. Louis airport suspended from the ceiling.

Wedding favors Beer koozies: ‘To have and to hold, and to keep your beer cold’ printed as well as the couple’s name and wedding date First dance “I Cross My Heart” by George Strait Bride’s most memorable moment “One of my maids of honor, Julia, sang Ave Maria. The song has been a part of every wedding for all the women in my family. My uncle accompanied Julia on the piano. It was so beautiful and moving.” Groom’s most memorable momenT “During pictures a thunderstorm rolled through and we had to escort Ashley through the rain. All the groomsman and I had umbrellas to keep her dry.” Occupations Judson is stock analyst. Ashley is a recruiter. Honeymoon Maui and Lana’i, Hawaii Reside Kirkwood Advice for brides-to-be “Have a videographer. We never thought we wanted one. We were wrong. We had a ‘same-day edit’ which meant we had a mini wedding video to show at the reception and then watch repeatedly on our honeymoon, we are so happy we did it.”

Wedding consultant: Simply & Forever • Florist: The Special Event Florist, Tina Barrera • Bride’s dress: Judd Waddell, Fleur de Lis Bridal Boutique • Groom’s attire: Stallone’s Formal Wear • Bride’s & Bridesmaids' hair & makeup: Danielle Style Bridesmaid dresses: J Crew • Wedding location: Graham Chapel at Washington University in St. Louis • Reception venue: Missouri History Museum • Caterer: Butler’s Pantry • Cake: Sarah’s Cake Shop • music: CJ’s Disc Jockey Service • Linens: La Tavola & BBJ Linens • Paper goods: Ten Four Paper • Transportation: Best Transportation • Videographer: LoveBird Studios

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Real Moments Jessica Short & James Lucas June 15, 2013 Photographed by conner Photography

McDonalds Convention in Las Vegas How they got engaged “He proposed to me on his birthday at my aunt and uncle’s house in front of my entire family. There were probably 50 of us. I was totally surprised!”

Number of guests 210 Wedding colors: Different shades of pinks and grays The menu: Filet, orange roughy, cannelloni, salad, rolls, loaded mashed potatoes, mixed veggies, cake, cookies, candy buffet Wedding favors Candy buffet bags for guests to fill, photobooth pictures to take home and baskets of flip flops for guests. First dance “My Best Friend” by Tim McGraw How they met

Bride’s most memorable moment

“Doing our combined father daughter & mother son dance to “Never Alone”

by Lady Antebellum, love that song!”

Honeymoon Moorea, Tahiti Reside Belleville IL Advice for brides-to-be “Have fun & try not to stress! It is over so fast!” Any other news to share since your wedding? Jessica and James are expecting their first baby in July!

Wedding consultant: Before I Do • Florist: Poppies Design Studio • Bride’s dress: Mikaella Bridal, Ultimate Bride • Groom’s attire: Savvi Formal Wear • Bridesmaid dresses: Jasmine, Town and Country Bridal Boutique • Wedding location: St. John UCC, Mascoutah, IL • Reception venue: Hidden Lake Winery • Cake: Patty Cakes • Music: Complete Music DJ Service • Specialty lighting and décor, linens & Rentals: Weck Events & Weddings • Paper goods: Poppies Design Studio • Photobooth: Conner Photography • Transportation: All About You Limos • Candy Buffet: Sweeties Confections, Glen Carbon IL

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Real Moments Laura Trost & Mark Callen September 14, 2013 Photographed by Kelly Park Photography

How they met Laura

and Mark met about 17 years ago through friends.

Mark was the best man at Laura’s first wedding. He was present when her children were born and was always a great friend. They started dating after Laura’s first husband and Mark’s best friend, Tim, passed away. This is Laura’s second marriage and Mark’s first. How they got engaged They got engaged in Kauai, Hawaii on the beach after a helicopter ride over the island. Mark had three gifts for the kids that he presented to them later that afternoon.

Number of guests 100 Wedding colors Burlap tan, navy blue and ivory The menu Assorted biscuit sandwiches with seasonal fillings, smoked brisket sliders with molasses bourbon sauce and crispy onions, grilled local sausages with assorted mustards, maple-glazed bacon wrapped scallops, pulled pork flatbread pizzas with caramelized onions and blue cheese, sweet potato hushpuppies with apple butter dip, herb-ricotta turnovers, goat cheese with tomato marmalade and fresh vegetable crudité with avocado dip. How they personalized the event The children were a part of the wedding ceremony and sat on a swing (well, they attempted to sit) under the tree where the wedding took place. Their good friend, Steve Duncan, married them. Olivia walked down the aisle with Laura and met Mark and the boys there. Wedding favors Fans and handkerchiefs First dance “Wrap Your Arms Around Me” Occupations Mark is a small business owner/contractor and Laura is in sales. Honeymoon Fiji Reside Ballwin Advice for brides-tobe “Enjoy the day and each other and don’t worry about anything else.”

Florist: Walter Knoll • Bride’s dress: Jim Hjelm, Maiden Voyage Bridal • Groom’s attire: Banana Republic • Wedding & Reception location: Three Barn Farm Clarksville, MO • Caterer: Catering St. Louis • Cake: Apple, cherry, lemon and chocolate pies by Catering St. Louis • music: Ryan Spearman Band

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Real Moments Jennifer Garlich & Jake Box June 22, 2013 Photographed by stephen seebeck Photography

How they met “We met on Match.com!

We went on a few dates, decided to be friends, and about a year later realized we had deeper feelings for each other and started dating again.” Number of guests 200 Wedding colors Navy and coral with gold and teal accents. The menu Duet of cabernet soaked beef tenderloin and braised black sea bass with white wine leek sauce, truffle infused dauphinois potato and brussel sprouts How they personalized the event Jake is from England and so we wanted to incorporate English elements into our wedding. Hats were encouraged for the guests (and they really rose to the challenge!). The bridesmaids all wore matching fascinators and the groomsmen wore traditional English morning suits and top hats. We also served Yorkshire Puddings (similar to a popover) with dinner. Exclusive Events made some custom décor with Union Jack pillows and gold ribbon Union Jacks in the bar top tables.

To incorporate elements that represented (Jeni), the table numbers were stenciled on books—Jeni is an literature major and an avid reader. Wedding favors Kakao Chocolate made us a custom white chocolate candy mold in the shape of a garlic bulb. First dance “The Best Thing”

by Ray LaMontange Groom’s most memorable moment “Watching Jeni walk down the aisle. She looked gorgeous and I’d been waiting to see her all day!”

Occupations Jeni is Vice President and Jake is the Financial Producer for Deliveries on Demand. Honeymoon London, Paris, Amsterdam, Brugge and Brussels Reside Webster Groves Advice for brides-tobe “Slow the day down as best you can.

And remember no matter what goes wrong (and things will!) at the end of the day you are husband and wife! And that’s what matters most of all.”

Wedding consultant: Simcha’s Events • Florist: Artistry Florist • Bride’s dress: Maggie Sottero, Robin’s Bridal; Toni Federici veil, Town and Country Bridal • Groom’s attire: Savvi Formal Wear; Top hat, Levine Hat Company • Bridesmaid dresses: Ann Taylor Wedding location: The Jewel Box • Reception venue: The Starlight and Zodiac Rooms at the Chase Park Plaza • Cake: The Cup music: Clarion Brass (ceremony and cocktail hour); Reception Band: Dr. Zhivegas (reception) • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events • Linens: Sitting Pretty Party Arts • Rentals: Exclusive Events • Paper goods: M. Haley Design • Photobooth: Photomaton • Transportation: Best Transportation • Videographer: Keith Kennedy

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Real Moments Kelly Hsia & Jeremy Chu August 24, 2013 Photographed by heather roth Photography

How they got engaged Jeremy planned a surprise engagement in St. Martin. Number of guests 130 Wedding colors Shades of pinks and peaches, white and silver The menu Bronzed filet of salmon, top sirloin of beef, vegetarian option (roasted onion filled with okra masala, served with pea & paneer curry, malai kofta & cilantro chutney) How they personalized the event “We wanted something intimate, romantic, but also wanted it to be fun and incorporate things we love. We had our bridesmaids pick an entrance song for the reception & each couple had to come out dancing when introduced. We also had a popcorn bar, and a lollipop tree made of chupa chups.” Wedding favors “Our wedding favors were little alcohol bottles, which doubled as our seating cards. We gave the guys “Gentleman Jack,” and the girls had Beringer White Zinfandel.”

First dance Dave Barnes “I have and always will” Bride’s most memorable moment “Jeremy’s speech during the reception where he told me he would follow me to the end of the earth.”

Occupations Kelly is a pharmacist.

Jeremy is an accountant. Honeymoon Paris, Venice, Florence & Rome Reside Washington DC Advice for bridesto-be “Learn to relax, and enjoy the planning process. Everything does not need to be perfect because only you will notice the little details. Pinterest can be your friend, but also your foe, especially if you keep looking.”

Wedding consultant: Dishy Events • Florist: Les Bouquets • Bride’s dress: Tara Keely • Groom’s attire: Navy J Crew Ludlow Tuxedo • Bride’s and Bridesmaids' hair & makeup: Emily Miller • Bridesmaid dresses: Little Borrowed Dress, NYC • Wedding location: Crystal and Statler ballrooms, Renaissance St. Louis Grand Hotel • Cake: Sarah’s Cake Shop • Music: Millennium Productions Specialty lighting and décor: Millennium Productions • Transportation: St. Louis Transportation

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Real Moments Brooke Cantwell & Sean Howard October 19, 2013 Photographed by sal cincotta Photography

How they met Sean and Brooke met on a blind date. How they got engaged Sean planned a surprise engagement for Brooke. Number of guests 316 Wedding colors Taupe, peach, white, light pink, and navy The menu Poached pear and raspberries on spinach salad with pecans and vinaigrette dressing; Pairing of crab cakes and filet with asiago potatoes and green beans with red peppers How we personalized the event

Brooke and Shawn are SEC college rivals, Mizzou groom and Ole Miss bride, which we incorporated into Sean’s Mizzou Golf grooms cake, and the receptions final song was “Ole Miss From Dixie with love.” The bride is also a cancer survivor, so instead of favors, a donation was made to the American Cancer Society in the guests honor. In memory of the grooms mother and brother, flowers and candles were lot in their honor. Sorority symbols of the bride were represented in wine carnations (Pi Beta Phi flower) being distributed to sisters in attendance and a badge was on her bouquet. First dance Ray Lamontagne's “You are the best thing” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT “My favorite memory was walking into the cocktail hour where Brooke had arranged for my favorite blues music to be played.” Occupations Brooke is a Surgical Orthopedic Sports Medicine Consultant for DePuy Synthes: Mitek Sports Medicine, and Sean is a Senior Financial Analyst for Boomerang Tube Honeymoon Ritz Carlton - Grand Cayman Reside O'Fallon, MO Advice for brideS to be “The best way to be stress free is to have great organization skills and openly communicate with your vendors.”

Wedding consultant: A Bash Events • Florist: Artistry Florist • Bride's Dress: Watters, White Traditions Bridal House Grooms Attire: Jos A Banks • Bridesmaids Dresses: Amsale, Town and Country Bridal Boutique • Wedding Location: Shrine of St Joseph • Reception: Missouri Athletic Club, Downtown • Cake: Blue Owl Bakery • Music: Galaxy Band and DJ from Millennium Productions (reception); Jon Garrett and Rosewood Ensemble (ceremony) Specialty Lighting: Millennium Productions Linens: Sitting Pretty • Paper goods: Vellum & Wedding Paper Divas • Videographer: Sal Cincotta Videography

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Real Moments Melanie Armer & Todd Smith May 4, 2013 Photographed by HEATHER ROTH Photography

“We met through Match.com and our first date was at the Wine Press in Central West End.” How they got engaged Todd planned a surprise engagement for Melanie at the World's Fair Pavilion in Forest Park.

Number of guests 110 Wedding colors Royal blue, aqua and accents of zebra print and shades of purple The menu Prime rib, basil pecan chicken, or stuffed portobello mushrooms, garlic roasted mashed potatoes and roasted vegetable medley. Wedding favors Frontenac Red and Chiliean White Wine made by a friend of the couple, Cris Hehner. Cris also made root beer as another guest gift option. First dance David Gray, “This Years Love” Bride’s most memorable moment Hearing Todd’s vows, they were so heartfelt and made me feel so loved. Groom’s most memorable moment Kissing my wife for the first time. Occupations Melanie is a principal engineer at pharmaceutical company. Todd is an inspector, owner of Home Inspection Company.

Honeymoon Aruba, Divi All Inclusive Reside Maplewood Advice for brides-to-be “Leave the party a little early so you and your new husband can enjoy the night and steal some time for yourselves. It’s tough, but by leaving a little early you will avoid any last minutes decisions about where things need to go or clean up.“ How they met

Florist: Poppies Design Studio • Bride’s dress: Brides by Demetrios • Groom’s attire: Savvi Formal Wear • Bridesmaid dresses: Eden, Brides by Demetrios • Wedding location: Peabody Hall, Saint Louis Zoo • Reception venue: River Camp, Saint Louis Zoo • Cake: Lubeley’s Bakery • Music: Millennium Productions • Specialty lighting and décor: Millennium Productions Linens: The Chair Cover Company (chair covers) • Photobooth: Party Face Photo Booth • Transportation: Best Transportation

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Real Moments Aja Falker & Shukree Tilghman May 18, 2013 Photographed by under grace Photography

Aja and Shukree met online through eHarmony. How they got engaged Shukree planned a surprise engagement for Aja. Number of guests 125 Wedding colors Coral and gold The menu Grilled jumbo shrimp and grilled medallion of beef tenderloin with mustard demi Glace accompanied with smashed chive fingerling potatoes and grilled asparagus

How they met

How they personalized the event

Jumping the broom was an important (and unique) moment at the ceremony— our florist decorated a handmade boom with fresh flowers and ribbon. The bride made some of the reception decorations.

We also set up a cigar bar and kettle corn station out on the patio for guest to enjoy. Wedding favors Kettle corn and personalized matchbooks First dance “You and I,” Stevie Wonder Bride’s most memorable moment Walking down the aisle. I didn’t realize how excited I was until the doors opened.

Most brides take their time, while smiling at the guests… I booked it! My parents (who both escorted me) could not keep up! Groom’s most memorable moment Saying the vows. I had no idea that reciting vows would be such a visceral experience. Occupations Aja is a Sr. Product Manager at Macy’s Merchandising Group. Shukree is a filmmaker. Honeymoon Playa Mujeres, Mexico Reside New York City Advice for brides-to-be “If you are a long distance bride, splurge on a great wedding planner. We loved ours and could not have done this without them.”

Wedding consultant: Events Luxe • Florist: Crimson Petal • Bride’s dress: Anjolique, The White Gown (Brooklyn, NY) • Groom’s attire: Vera Wang, Men’s Wearhouse • Bridesmaid dresses: Eliza J, Nordstrom • Wedding location: Central Baptist Church Reception venue: Forest Park Visitor’s Center • Caterer: Catering St. Louis • Cake: The Cakery • music: Clarion Brass (ceremony); Galaxy Band (reception) • Specialty lighting and décor: Exclusive Events (lighting, decor), Sammy J Balloons (decor) Linens: La Tavola • Rentals: Finch Vintage Rentals • Paper goods: Ten Four Paper • Transportation: Kelly’s Limousine (trolley); Best Transportation (Rolls Royce Getaway Car)

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Real Moments Mullally Barnhart & Daniel Healey June 1, 2013 Photographed by Joel Marion Photography

HOW THEY MET “We re-connected after college. We were both single, the timing was perfect, and the rest is history.” HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Dan planned a surprise engagement for Mullally at Charlie Gitto’s Restaurant NUMBER OF GUESTS 250 WEDDING COLORS Pink and green The menu beet salad, beef tenderloin with potatoes au gratin and green beans Wedding favors Guests were given confetti wands for the last song and send off First dance “Danny’s Song” by Loggins and Messina Bride’s most memorable moment “Walking down the aisle and our first dance.” Groom’s most memorable moment “The send off when everyone threw the confetti wands.” Occupations Dan is a financial advisor at Edward Jones and Mullally is a child/adolescent counselor Honeymoon Punta Cana Reside St. Louis, MO Advice for bridesto-be “Breathe!”

Wedding consultant: Barbara Hoover • Florist: Bloomin Buckets • Bride’s dress: Carolina Herrara, Berrybridge • Bridesmaid dresses: Lula Kate, Bella Bridesmaid • Wedding location: Little Flower Church • Reception venue: Saint Louis Country Club Cake: Encore Bakery • MUSIC: Arvell and Co.

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Real Moments Monica Alunday & Tyler Meyr August 24, 2013 Photographed by michelle schwartz

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED Tyler proposed during a September picnic on Art Hill in Forest Park, St. Louis. NUMBER OF GUESTS 300 WEDDING COLORS Blue, Gold, and Pink The menu Jambalaya, roasted beets with candied pecans, salted ham red beans and rice, and praline pecan cookies with cinnamon ice cream.

FIRST DANCE What a Wonderful World, performed by members of the Soulard Blues Band Wedding favors Planted succulents BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT “First look. Earlier that morning I wrote thank you letters to my bridesmaids, my mother and mother-inlaw, my father, and of course my future husband. I asked the photographer to hand his letter to him before I saw him.

It’s difficult for me to express my feelings; so to know that at that moment when it was just he and I, and he knowing exactly how happy and excited I was, it was incredibly emotional.”

GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT

“During the ceremony when we said our ‘I dos.’” OCCUPATIONS Monica is a dancer with Modern American Dance Company and Tyler is an urban designer with Forum Studio. HONEYMOON Sugar Beach Resort, St. Lucia RESIDE Central West End adVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. It can be stressful, but it’s only more stressful to be proud and to plan and do crafts by yourself.”

Florist: Sue Wiest • Bride’s dress: Casablanca, Simply Elegant Bridal • Groom’s attire: Hugo Boss • Bridesmaid dresses: Jasmine, Simply Elegant Bridal • Wedding location: East Overlook of Art Hill, Forest Park • Reception venue: Saint Louis Art Museum • Caterer: Bon Appetit • Cake: Ice cream cake by Serendipity • Music: Soulard Blues Band • Linens: Aries • Rentals: Premier Rentals • Paper goods: Designed by Derek Prior • Music: Soulard Blues Band • Photobooth: Michelle Schwartz Transportation: Erwin F Schwarz, Ltd

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M.O.B. Style Hot looks for Mother of the Brides

MUST-HAVES

Add these useful items to your emergency kit

'SNAKE SEQUIN' BOX CLUTCH, $48, WWW.NORDSTROM.COM

'RADIANCE' PUMP, $119.95, WWW.NORDSTROM.COM FAB FEET SHOE CUSHIONS, $5.29 FROM TARGET

OPI NAIL POLISH, $8.50 FROM TARGET MATRIX WONDER BOOST ROOT LIFTER, $16

'MOROCCAN PRINT' METALLIC MESH CLUTCH, $42, WWW. NORDSTROM.COM

VM COLLECTION GOWN, $389 FROM DISTINCTIONS

ASSETS SHAPEWARE BY SPANKS, $23 FROM TARGET

VM COLLECTION GOWN, $489 FROM DISTINCTIONS

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JOVANI GOWN, $249 FROM DISTINCTIONS

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NADRI PEAR DROP EARRINGS, $75, WWW.NORDSTROM.COM

QUIMICA ALEMANA NAIL HARDENER, $3.48 FROM AMAZON

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sites to behold

Twelve fabulous places

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New Venue www.countryweddingstl.com 7100 Thornton Road Pacific, MO 63069 314.805.7721

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2 Beyond Broadway– 3 Barnett on Patty Long Catering Washington New Venue www.pattylongcatering.com 112 Sidney Street St. Louis, MO 63104 314.621.9598

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New Venue www.barnettonwashington.com 3207 Washington Avenue St. Louis, MO 63103 314.241.9463

4 Saint Louis Club Newly Renovated www.stlclub.com 7701 Forsyth Boulevard St. Louis, MO 63105 314.726.1964

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEATURED VENUES

1 Haue Valley Farm

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5 Noboleis Vineyards New Venue www.noboleisvineyards.com 100 Hemsath Road Augusta, MO 63332 636.482.4500

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6 St. Louis Union Station Hotel New Venue www.stlunionstationhotel.com 1820 Market Street St. Louis, MO 63103 314.621.5262

7 Boathouse Forest Park New Ceremony Location www.boathouseforestpark.com 6101 Government Drive St. Louis, MO 63110 314.367.2224

8 Sugar Creek Winery New Venue www.sugarcreekwines.com 125 Boone Country Lane Defiance, MO 63341 636.987.2400

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEATURED VENUES

sites to behold

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9 Spazio Westport Newly Renovated www.spaziowestport.com 12031 Lackland Road St. Louis, MO 63146 314.576.0400

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10 Sunset Hills Country Club Newly Renovated www.sunsethillscountry club.com 2525 Highway 157 South Edwardsville, IL 62025 618.656.9380

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11 Marriott St. Louis Airport Newly Renovated www.stlouisairportmarriott weddings.com 10700 Pear Tree Drive St. Louis, MO 63134 314.423.9700

12 Gallery 400 New Venue www.gallery400events.com 400 Washington Avenue St. Louis, MO 63102 314.241.5870

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEATURED VENUES.

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Personally YOURS A guide to gift giving

As the bride and groom, you will be the ones to receive the gifts.

Remember how you spent all that time registering? But you will also be giving some gifts. Here’s a little help to get you track.

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

them of their role in your big day will have sentimental value for you now, and for them someday in the future.

Parents A little token of appreciation to your parents and his, just to

Bridal party This one is pretty much a given. You and your spouse-

to-be should present gifts of your choosing to the bridesmaids and groomsmen. While most people choose the same gift for the entire party, it is totally cool to customize and personalize each version for the recipient.

Flower girls & ring bearers The youngest members of your wed-

ding party are probably easy to shop for… you can just ask their parents what they are into these days. But something special that reminds

thank them for the support and nurturing, is always lovely. Many people buy a mini-wedding album or have a family picture from the wedding day framed as gifts.

Shower hostesses An important one. These friends and/or relatives opened arranged a party in your honor, spent time to make you feel special, and did tons of coordinating to pull it off. It is very thoughtful for the guest of honor—You—to bring a little token of appreciation to the people throwing your shower. (Continued on pages 96-98)

stylish and functional Rawlings wallet, starting at $45, and toiletry kit, starting at $70, Red Label Accessories, www.redlabelacc.com

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necklaces with charm Personalized charm necklace, starting at $70, www.jennypresent.com

His & hers toiletry bags Waffle weave toiletry bags, fully lined with vinyl and machine washable, $14 each, www.curlyqcreations.com

make a note of it These notepads are $12 each, www.curlyqcreations.com

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Personally Yours

FLOWER GIRL Custom flower girl dresses starting at $75, and monogrammed sashes starting at $20, www.sewsistersco.etsy.com

NAME BRACELETS Handmade child's name bracelets starting at $16, The Studio Jewelry Boutique, www.beadbasket.com

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Enjoy our spectacular view from our new hilltop pavilion seating 250 + guests.

Each guest will have special memories of your special day.

Take unique engagement photos in our vineyard or on barrels in our wine cellar!

For a personalized tour or more information please contact Lisa today at lisalorch@yahoo.com Visit our website at www.sugarcreekwines.com 636-987-2400 | 125 Boone Country Lane, Defiance, Mo 63341 120025_AD_24.indd 1

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Personally Yours

MONOGRAMMED CLUTCHES The bright and stylish H3 (happy, hip & helpful) Clutch from Initials, Inc. comes in a variety of colors and includes personalization, $30, www.nameyourbag.com

GIRL'S WRAP TOWEL Assorted colors and font styles available, $26, www.curlyqcreations.com

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Cariean’ s Calling The

Getting us closer the sun and schedule-free By d i a n a lo s c i a l e

Listen: Blue, balmy, breezy. (Repeat.) That’s the subtle siren call of the Caribbean islands. Their appeal makes them a honeymoon magnet; their rewards range from gorgeous market deals, crispy fried conch and idle hours of snorkeling to post-volcanic panoramas and grand sweeps of beach that turn honeymooners into beach swooners.

The Caribbean, overall, holds major honeymoon sway, culling about 22% of post-wedding B&Gs to vacay on its islands. Jamaica and St Lucia continue to cull positions on the Top 10 get-away lists. Moving north to south, creeping by degrees through the lower latitudes toward the equator, the islands offer bright white architecture, dazzling plated fruit, fish and vegetables, and the bliss of no schedule. In the following, we get closer to the sun, answering the call to chill, dishing on a few delicious islands and romantic resorts.

Courtesy of Cap Juluca

Anguilla is drivable from one end to the other via a main road in a half hour at 30 mph (the max speed limit). The rest of the island’s tempo goes no faster. Even the waves against the famous white beaches are gentle.

The dramatically designed Cap Juluca resort promises 179 acres of privacy, even on its long, walkable beaches. Its rooms, suites and turreted villas are lush with comfort, from palatial bedrooms and bathrooms to beach service. Breakfast and the New York Times are delivered to the room, and in the evening, while sipping wine brought from the Cap’s exclusive cellar, guests enjoy the lights of St. Martin or Saba across the water. Three restaurants, barefoot sauntering on the beach, massages for two, and yachts for rent comprise the major “sports” here, along with tennis and croquet. This seriously romantic resort is serious about downtime luxury.

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The Caribbean’s Calling

Jamaica Right in the middle of the Caribbean sits Jamaica with its left-lane driving, a burgeoning history and that je ne sais quoi that calls to travelers, making it one of the top 10 honeymoon destinations.

Famous for its hike-able river falls, sugary sand, reggae music, and fresh food that can blindside a diet, the island boasts mountains and coastline, adventure and utter relaxation. Gail Ailshie at the Travel Haus St. Louis touts the island as a favorite: “It’s the people, the culture, the beaches, the markets… the beauty.”

Jamaica is home to some of Sandals keenest resorts where the accent is on romance. The all-inclusive, couples-only resorts are well placed,

Famous for its hike-able river falls, sugary sand, and reggae music, the island boasts mountains and coastline, adventure and utter relaxation.

Courtesy of Sandals and Beaches Resorts®

each with its own appeal. The Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa has a 7-mile stretch of beach, and loft suites with plenty of palms and gardens to cloister the guests. The Sandals Royal Caribbean’s pink and white buildings combine Georgian architecture with British themes, and it’s flanked by a series of six perfect beaches. The Sandals Dunn’s River Golf Resort & Spa has sea-facing elegant rooms (think Italian Riviera) and beach, always the beach. Sandals guests can go restaurant-hopping, intraresort style, and engage in nearly non-stop water and land sports.

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The Caribbean’s Calling white barn inn

Antigua With snorkel-worthy coral reefs, powdery sand, a com-

The Curtain Bluff resort sits on a peninsula marking the meeting of the Atlantic with its cresting surf and the Caribbean with its wave “laplets.” ander, and large rooms and suites in soft airy colors are part of the Bluff’s palette. No air-conditioning needed. Dine al fresco on the suite’s terrace, loll in the room’s hammock-for-two are slung across the terrace, "ooh" over the freshest food in the Caribbean and "aaah" over the 25,000-bottle wine cellar. No TV in the room but Television House, on stilts near the tennis courts and fitness center, hosts guest gatherings for big media events. A boutique all-inclusive, Curtain Bluff is spit-spot elegant and spells “escape.”

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Courtesy of Curtain Bluff

plexly winding coastline (creating crazy tortuous car trips), a bird sanctuary, and its renown role as host to Sailing Week, Antigua has morphed over the past two hundred years from historical lynchpin (Admiral Nelson found it excellent for hiding a naval force) to premier resort venue.

The Curtain Bluff resort not only sits on a peninsula marking the meeting of the Atlantic with its cresting surf and the Caribbean with its wave “laplets” but it also delivers an ocean view from every guest’s window. Pink and white buildings (nothing sugary about them, though), grounds crazy with gorgeous flora, palms, hibiscus and ole-

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The Caribbean’s Calling

st. lucia The little island of St. Lucia, according to travel expert Ailshie, is very much like Hawaii. And this little island is easier to access than our 50th state in terms of time and distance. Home to exotic wildlife, rainforests, the Pitons peaks, Jacquot the native parrot, and a drivein volcano, St. Lucia is an unquestionable honeymoon favorite. Oprah, too, lists it on her top 10 faves.

Far from the island’s cruising crowd, on the north coast, the Windjammer Landing Villa Resort offers classic amenities wrapped up in the romance of luxurious one- to four-bedroom villas and suites with serious views of the sea.

Private plunge pools may have guests lolling to the point of not leaving their own digs. But here are hillside shuttles that gab up and down porting guests to the resort pools and beach. Rooms are

gorgeous and spacious in rich subtle colors, and some tubs and showers are (literally) open to the sky. Water sports are complimentary and so is an intro course to scuba diving. Play tennis at night, go coconut bowling, enjoy fashion shows, scramble through a game of beach cricket, and join in a sailing regatta. There are several on-site restaurants…and even off-site pizza delivery! Luxury wears many faces.

The sequestered Sandals Halcyon Resort with its spectacular pool is bound with gorgeous gardens, has several restaurants, more than a dozen bars and famous on-the-water fine dining anchored on a 150-foot pier. Purposely made to meld with the landscape, none of the resort’s buildings are higher than the highest palm tree.

Something about the Halcyon whispers “don’t move from here.” ♥

(left) Courtesy of Windjammer Landing; (others) Courtesy of Sandals and Beaches Resorts®

Home to exotic wildlife, rainforests, and a drive-in volcano, St. Lucia is a honeymoon favorite.

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Week

Bridal The hottest trends from New York International Bridal Week By L AC Y B R A N C H

Lacy Branch, chief event stylist and owner of Lacy Branch Events had the pleasure of attending Bridal Fashion Week in New York City and report her fashion findings of what brides can expect in 2014.

Last season was all about opulent beading directly from the “Great Gatsby” movie trend. This season the beading was much more subtle and delicate; It was shown either just on the cap sleeve of a gown or scattered all over.

(Continued on page 201)

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©lacy branch

CAP SLEEVES & DELICATE BEADING

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Dynamic Duos Seventeen ďŹ&#x201A;oral artists show off their prettiest of pairs Photographed by DAVID LANCASTER

“I must have flowers, always and always.”

– CLAUDE MONET

Clockwise from top center: Botanicals Design Studio, RW Designs, The Singing Florist, Wildflowers, The Rebel Florist, Caroline Kelsey, Artistry Florist, Belli Fiori, Schnucks Floral & Gifts, The Special Event Florist-Tina Barrera, The Singing Florist, Poppies Design Studio, Festive Couture Floral, Thorn Studio.

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ARTISTRY FLORIST Bouquet of Garden Roses, Ranunculus, Roses, Stock, Spray Roses, Astilbe Ranunculus, Spray Rose Boutonniere.

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BELLI FIORI Bouquet of Pincushion Protea, Football Mums, Stock, Queen Anne's Lace, Scabiosa Stock, Eucalyptus, Dusty Miller Boutonniere.

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POPPIES DESIGN STUDIO Bouquet of Garden Roses, Cymbidium Orchids, Gloriosa Lilies, Ranunculus, Eucalyptus Cymbidium Orchid, Ranunculus Boutonniere.

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CAROLINE KELSEY Bouquet of White Anenomes White Anenome Boutonniere.

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ELEGANCE IN BLOOM Bouquet of Garden Roses, Roses, Hydrangea, Drumstick Allium, Succulents Ranunculus, Succulents Boutonniere.

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FLOWER SHOP AT THE CHASE PARK PLAZA Bouquet of Peonies, Freesia, Anenomes, Parrot Tulips, Roses, Seeded Eucalyptus Anenome, Freesia Boutonniere.

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SCHNUCKS FLORIST & GIFTS Bouquet of Garden Roses, Stock, Ranunculus, Mini Calla Lilies, Tulips Mini Calla Lily, Lily Grass Boutonniere.

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BOTANICALS DESIGN STUDIO Bouquet of Pincushion Protea, Cymbidium Orchids, Roses, Craspedia, Hypericum Berries Cymbidium Orchid, Craspedia, Hypericum Berries Boutonniere.

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LES BOUQUETS Bouquet of Flowering Kale, Coxcomb, Hydrangea, Matsumoto Asters, Delphinium, Anenomes Matsomoto Aster, Delphinium Boutonniere.

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THE REBEL FLORIST Bouquet of Spray Roses and Ranunculus Ranunculus, Spray Rose, Galex Leaf Boutonniere.

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RW DESIGNS Bouquet of Pincushion Protea, Mini Calla Lilies, Celosia, Bupleurum Pincushion Protea Boutonniere.

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THE SPECIAL EVENT FLORISTTINA BARRERA Bouquet of Garden Roses, Succulents, Veronica, Fern Shoots, Privet Berries, Lavender Veronica, Lavender, Fern Shoots, Privet Berries Boutonniere.

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THE SINGING FLORIST Bouquet of Ranunculus, Roses, Craspedia, Spray Roses, Dusty Miller Spray Roses, Dusty Miller, Craspedia Boutonniere.

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SISTERS FLORAL DESIGN STUDIO Bouquet of Dahlias, Roses, Lisianthus, Queen Anne's Lace, Bupleurum, Roses Spray Roses, Limonium Boutonniere.

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THORN STUDIO Bouquet of Garden Roses, Stock, Mini Calla Lilies, Cymbidium Orchids, Seeded Eucalyptus Cymbidium Orchid, Mini Calla, Seeded Eucalyptus Boutonniere

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FESTIVE COUTURE FLORAL Bouquet of Mini Calla Lilies, Ranunculus, Freesia, Hypericum Berries, Green Anthuriums Hypericum Berries, Lily Grass Boutonniere..

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WILDFLOWERS Bouquet of Dahlias, Mini Calla Lilies, Freesia, Lavender Mini Calla Lilies, Lavender Boutonniere.

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Ruling Classics The

Blue blood mixes with white gowns in a ceremonial manor PHOTOGRAPHED BY ABBIE RUDOLPH, ABBIE TAKES PICTURES

Styled by Yara Holt, Plume Events Flowers by Kelly Jurotich, The Crimson Petal Hair by Ashley Selz, St. Louis Bridal Hair & Makeup Makeup by Lisa Lipsitz, Looks by Lisa & St. Louis Bridal Hair & Makeup Lauren Griffin, Tori Wright and Lee Anderson from West Model and Talent Management. Carson Lewallen from Now Talent Management.

Shot on location at the Magic Chef Mansion and at The Chapel St. Louis

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“Riley” gown by Modern Trousseau, $3,982 from Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique; “Sophia” earrings, $26 from Dream Day Designs; Richard’s Design headpiece, $175 from Simply Elegant Bridal; “White Tie & Tails” from Stallone’s Formalwear; Car from the private collection of Brian Tanner

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Above: “Caprina” gown by Watters, $898 from Frew’s Bridal; “Vivienne” necklace in ivory pearl and antique gold ($119) and “Sarah” pearl earrings ($12) by Dream Day Designs. Opposite page, from left: “Caprina” gown by Watters, $898 from Frew’s Bridal; “SilverScreen” gown by Kathy Ireland, $1,455 from Frew’s Bridal, “Faye” pearl stack bracelet ($42), “Sophia” earrings ($26) from Dream Day Designs; “Ethereal Sparkles” gown by Mon Cheri Montage, $478 from Frew’s Bridal, “Caroline” earrings ($26) and “Mae” bracelet ($29) from Dream Day Designs.

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Happy marriage begins when we marry the ones we love, and they blossom when we love the ones we marry.

—tom mullen

Below: Augusta Jones gown, $2,390 from Town and Country Bridal Boutique. Right: Vintage emerald and diamond necklace, $8,500 from Timekeepers. Bottom right: “Ethereal Sparkles” gown by Mon Cheri Montage, $478 from Frew’s Bridal.

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Pronovias “Landra” gown, $1799 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: Jackson

by Ike Behar suit from Stallone’s Formalwear.

This page: Augusta Jones gown, $2390 from Town and Country Bridal Boutique; “Sophie” pearl earrings, $22 by Dream Day Designs; headpiece by Simply Elegant Bridal. Bel-Aire headpiece, $126 from Simply Elegant Bridal.

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From left: Occasions by Jim Hjelm (green dress), $320 from The Ultimate Bride, Dream Day Designs “Diana” necklace $59 and “Sophia” earrings $26; The Pippa by Jim Hjelm (navy dress), $310 from The Ultimate Bride, Dream Day Designs “Eve” necklace $59, “Sarah” earrings $12; La Sposa gown, $2,002 and Richard’s Design headpiece, $175 from Simply Elegant Bridal; Tuxedo from Stallone’s Formalwear. Special thanks to Linus the Labrador Retriever and his owner/ handler, Marilyn Pona.

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Opposite page: La Sposa gown, $2,002 and Richard’s Design headpiece, $175 from Simply Elegant Bridal.

This page: Alvina Valenta gown, $4,400, LaSposa headband, $250 from Simply Elegant Bridal; “Elsie” pendant necklace, $55 by Dream Day Designs.

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This page: Angelina Faccenda by Mori Lee gown, $1,738 from Frew’s Bridal. Opposite page: “Arena” gown by Sophia Tolli, $1,280 from Frew’s Bridal; “Priscilla” necklace, $129 by Dream Day Designs; “White Tie & Tails” from Stallone’s Formalwear. Draping and lighting by Millennium Productions.

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The best friend is likely to acquire the best wife, because a good marriage is based on the talent for friendship. 窶年IETZSCHE

Paper goods by Megan Acelar, Your Designer; Cake by Sugaree Baking Company; Tablescape and linens by Plume Events.

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Augusta Jones gown, $2,390 from Town and Country Bridal Boutique; “Sophie” pearl earrings, $22 by Dream Day Designs; Bel-Aire headpiece, $126 from Simply Elegant Bridal; Jackson by Ike Behar suit from Stallone's Formalwear; bridesmaid dress details on page 150.

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Runway On the

Six of our favorite designers debuted their 2014 collections at fall fashion week

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Rivini AVAILABLE AT FLEUR DE LIS BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

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On the Runway

Lee Ann Betler AVAILABLE AT TOWN AND COUNTRY BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

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On the Runway

Austin Scarlett AVAILABLE AT TOWN AND COUNTRY BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

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On the Runway

Jim Hjelm

AVAILABLE AT THE ULTIMATE BRIDE AND MAIDEN VOYAGE

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On the Runway

Enzoani and

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On the Runway

Maiden Voyage AVAILABLE AT TOWN AND COUNTRY BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

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If I Had a Do-Over By jennifer frakes Every issue of Saint Louis Bride magazine highlights several recent weddings in the St. Louis area in our “Real Moments” feature.

Photographs from these gorgeous gatherings have been submitted by the couples, wedding planners, photographers and other vendors who were particularly proud of their labors of love. Even with weddings as wonderful as those previously included in “Real Moments,” not everything goes perfectly. And given some time and perspective, some former “Real Moments” brides share what they might do differently.

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Reign in the Registry Caroline Jamry wishes that she hadn’t registered for so much, especially for so many unnecessary kitchen gadgets. “I’ve been married over two years and I have not used all of my registry gifts,” Caroline said. “I wish I hadn’t been so determined to outfit my kitchen and home, and had understood that there will be many years ahead of me to buy the necessary items.”

Caroline says that even if she was a little (Continued on page 197)

©shelby allison/shutterstock

Even Brides in our "Real Moments" feature have some things they'd do differently now

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After the Party How to keep the romance going when you finally get to be alone By a m y z i m m e r m a n

Plan Ahead To keep the focus on the romance, get the logistics out of the way early. Many couples choose to stay at a hotel on their wedding night. Either you or your fiancé should check into the hotel prior to the wedding so you can head straight to your room after the reception.

If time allows, you may want to unpack your things so you are settled into the room and can keep the focus on each other. Also, be sure to arrange for transportation from the reception to the hotel if necessary. (Continued on page 203)

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©alicia hoyt

You’ve said “I Do,” taken dozens of pictures, had your first dance and greeted hundreds of guests.

It’s finally time for you and your husband to be alone. Together. As husband and wife. So how can you to make your wedding night as wonderful as the day that leads up to it?

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Are We There Yet? A Honeymoon checklist

WAIT! PINPOINT THE PLACE…

A slew of online wedding data indicates that on average B&Gs book an 8-day honeymoon four months prior to their wedding date. More than 60% pay for this $4.5K honeymoon vacation themselves.

Do travel homework online; and then do actual bookings with travel agents who can assist at any time if in case of travel and accommodation snafus or situations. A little planning is powerful in getting what you want. Travel pros at the Travel Haus St. Louis will ask honeymooners: • How much do you want to spend? (Continued on page 193)

©kakigori studio/shutterstock

Choose a sturdy suitcase, zip it open at least a few weeks prior to departure, and get packing. Unless the honeymoon is for one or two nights and therefore requires only a toothbrush, little black dress, bathing suit and flops, go for the big, checkable bag. If you’re mad for a soft, stylish classic carry-on, treat yourself to a Vera Bradley or Vuitton.

Remember that most airlines allow two carry-ons: one that squishes under the seat in front of you and one that’s jammable into the overhead compartment. Most airlines charge ($20-$25) for (regular) baggage check.

By d i a n a lo s c i a l e

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

SPECIAL SEATING ARRANGeMENTS

Q. What’s the order for seating divorced parents at the ceremony?

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Bride's Divorced Parents

Aisle

Groom's Divorced Parents

Bride’s mother (stepfather, escort)

1st Row

Groom’s mother (stepfather, escort)

Siblings/MOB's Parents

Siblings/MOG's Parents

Aunts, Uncles, their spouses on MOB side

Aunts, Uncles, their spouses on MOG side

Bride's father (stepmother)

Groom's father (stepmother)

FOB's Parents

FOG's Parents

Aunts, Uncles, their spouses on FOB's side

Aunts, Uncles, their spouses on FOG's side

More family/special guests of bride

More family/special guests of groom

JACK ROWELL

ANNA: In the lucky event that all the parties get along, there’s no reason why divorced parents can’t share the front row, but in most cases divorced parents are seated separately at the ceremony and at separate tables at the reception. In general, the mother of the bride or groom and their respective spouses or escorts, children, parents, and relatives are seated in the first rows, followed by the father of the bride or groom and their respective spouses or escorts, children, parents, and relatives. Here is the standard order of seating when parents are divorced:

SHOWER GIFT ETIQUETTE

Q. My aunt is hosting a bridal shower for me.

I think it will be really boring for guests to have to watch me open gift after gift, and I am wondering if it would be okay for me to open the shower gifts at home later. What do you think?

ANNA: It can be hard to be the center of attention, but it really wouldn’t be fun for the other guests if you just collect all the gifts and stash them in your car. The whole point of the shower is for guests to “oooh” and “aaah” over the gifts, and for you to show your appreciation and enthusiasm as you open them.

But that doesn’t mean it has to be a marathon opening session.

Encourage your aunt to keep the guest list small. The more guests there are, the longer it will take to open the gifts. (It’s okay for you to do this because the shower hostess should consult the bride-to-be on the guest list, if for no other reason than to be sure that those invited to the shower will also be wedding guests.)

You also don’t have to open all the gifts at once; consider splitting the session before and after refreshments.

It’s fun to receive presents—especially when they are for you! So I encourage you to get in the spirit of the event, open your gifts with enthusiasm, and graciously thank the givers.

RECEIVING LINE ALTERNATIVES

Q. My fiancé and I would like to skip the receiving line at our wedding because we think it’s too formal, but I’ve read that we must greet all of our wedding guests. Do you have any suggestions on how we do this?

ANNA: You have done your etiquette homework and are correct: The bridal couple should greet each wedding guest and thank him or her for attending their wedding. This remains one of the biggest “musts” of all wedding etiquette, though you have options as to how you do it. Many couples forgo the formal receiving line (Continued on next page) SPRING/SUMMER 2014 • www.bridestl.com

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Anna Post

and instead opt to visit each table of guests during the reception. It’s certainly a more relaxed and personal way for you to spend time with your guests, allowing for conversation that goes beyond the formulaic greetings exchanged in a receiving line. This approach works best when a sit-down meal, either served or buffet-style, is planned because it guarantees that all your guests will be available and in the same spot.

You will need to do some advance calculations and planning. It will take about five minutes per table to visit and chat. So, for a wedding with one hundred guests (which translates to twelve tables of eight to nine guests each) plan on a full hour. Sprinkle the visits during the different courses—first course, entrée, and dessert. Make sure you have time to enjoy your meal, too! If your wedding has more than about 75-100 guests, table visits may take too much time to accomplish, making a receiving line a good idea after all.

However you do it, in addition to speaking with each guest, take a moment to publicly welcome and acknowledge your guests and thank them for being with you on your wedding day.

You can do this after you make your entrance to the reception or during the toasts. It’s a small gesture, but it does so much to show your appreciation for your family and friends.

INCLUDING FLOWER GIRL AND RING BEARER

Q. My six-year old niece and my fiancé’s five-year old nephew are going to be our flower girl and ring bearer. Should they be included in any pre-wedding parties?

ANNA: The flower girl and ring bearer are not usually invited to showers and obviously, because of their ages, not to bachelor or bachelorette parties, as these are generally adult affairs. The children might be invited to a pre-wedding luncheon hosted by or for the bridesmaids or groomsmen. This is certainly a judgment call on the part of the hosts, taking into consideration the nature of the event and the maturity of the children.

It is a traditional courtesy to invite the flower girl, the ring bearer, and their respective parents to the rehearsal dinner, but it is not mandatory for them to attend. If it is going to be a late night, parents may choose to decline the invitation, or let the children attend for a

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Anna Post

short while and then depart for an early bedtime. Either way, the goal is to have the children well rested for the wedding. If the children do attend, this is a good time to present them with their thank-you gifts from the two of you.

MENU PLANNING FOR SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS

Q. We are in a panic over planning our menu. We have a number of friends who are vegetarian or vegan, and are also concerned about guests who may have allergies. We would prefer to offer traditional choices of beef or fish, and want to have a meal that is memorable for us, as well. Do you have any suggestions?

ALEXANDRA GL/SHUTTERSTOCK

ANNA: It is thoughtful of you to take your guest’s preferences and needs into account when planning your reception menu, but you don’t have to go to the extreme of calling each one and asking what they can or cannot eat. There is a balance between being sure that every guest can eat everything and knowing that all guests can find enough to enjoy.

Since you already know that you will have a number of vegans and vegetarians at the table, work with your caterer to make sure that there is at least one vegan entrée, as this is the most restrictive. Chances are there will be a number of items on your more traditional menu that are vegetarian friendly—salads, fruit dishes, and vegetable side dishes. If they are prepared

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vegan-style, (say without butter or using vegetable instead of chicken broth) they will be acceptable to all your guests. Then, be sure that your menu also features the entrée that you, as the guests of honor, would most enjoy at your wedding feast.

When it comes to allergies, it is the guest’s duty to inform the host when there is something that might prevent him or her from partaking in the meal. Sometimes it is something simple—if raw tomatoes are the problem, they can be omitted from the salad. Other conditions, such as nut and or shellfish allergies, are more pervasive, so ask your allergic guests about a solution that will keep them safe at your table. Again, keep your caterer informed; they’re pros at accommodating all kinds of scenarios and will help you plan the best meal possible.

TO INVITE OR NOT INVITE

Q. Do I have to invite my good friend’s husband to my wedding? He is somewhat loud, and neither my fiancé nor I like him. My friend doesn’t know how we feel about her husband. I don’t want to hurt her feelings, but we’re concerned that her spouse will get rowdy at the reception.

ANNA: Married couples, engaged couples, and any other couple in a committed relationship are always invited together to a wedding. It doesn’t matter if you only know one of the pair or if you don’t like one of them—they are a package deal. Think how hurt your friend would be if she received an invitation addressed just to her? She’s bound to wonder if it’s a mistake. There’s no way that you would be able to explain your choice tactfully, and if you admit to disliking her husband, you may damage your friendship irreparably.

Invite them both and then have a plan for your reception, just in case. You may be anticipating trouble where there is none. It’s likely that his behavior is more noticeable in a small group than in a large one. Your first strategy is to seat this couple with people who are easy going. Then, so you don’t have to think about it on your wedding day, ask a groomsman to keep an eye on this guest once in a while, and to distract him or engage him in conversation if he seems to be getting loud. I think that after your wedding you’ll be glad you invited them both and that you didn’t risk your friendship. ♥

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What’s Going to Be on Your Plate?

Five top wedding food trends

By j e n f r a k e s | p h oto s by m e g a n t h i e l e

Gone are the days of wedding goers choosing meat or fish for their meal and waiting for the

dancing to begin--today’s couples are more culinary conscious and want to dazzle their guests with fabulous and memorable food and drink.

Kathy Costello, director of catering sales at Russo’s Catering, has noticed how our foodie culture had effected couples’ changing tastes and expectations when it comes to choosing their menus.

“Couples are now better educated about food options and possibilities,” Costello said. “They are attentive to specific ingredients and want to customize their menu to make it unique to their wedding and them as a couple.”

How are couples, now and in the near future, making sure they throw not a great party, but the ultimate dinner party? Following are five trends that local caterers (Continued on page 188)

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What’s on Your Plate?

(Continued from page 186) have spotted and/or already implemented with their events:

1

The late night breakfast station Rob Schaefer, vice president of catering and design for Steven Becker Fine Dining, sees the late night breakfast station as a top trend for 2014. “Offering guests a late night snack has been big for several years, but the breakfast station is going to be very popular,” Schaefer said.

“It will bring the pancake house to the reception, rather than people going to one after.”

Schaefer envisions bringing out the breakfast station at about 10:30 or 11:30 at night.

But this won’t be like a trip to I-Hop. “Some possibilities are miniature Belgian waffles and French toast bites, in addition to homemade biscuits, bacon, sausage and eggs,” said Schaefer. “It’s taking a street trend and bringing it to a high-end wedding.”

Offering guests a late night snack has been big for several years, but the breakfast station is going to be very popular for 2014.

2

Family style service Russo’s has seen an increase in couples interested in having the meal served family style, in which the food is passed from guest to guest around the table. “People like that it is a little less formal and that it promotes interac-

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©megan thiele

One breakfast-loving couple already jumped on this trend. Natalie Kaczmarczyk, marketing and design coordinator for Ces & Judy’s Catering, said one couple they worked with requested a midnight breakfast buffet at their home after the wedding, for the couple and their wedding party. “We offered breakfast sandwiches, such as egg, ham and cheese paninis, along with other breakfast staples,” Kaczmarczyk said.

What’s on Your Plate? tion among the guests,” Costello said.

But even for experienced caterers, it requires a lot of planning to make sure service goes smoothly and that the guests feel comfortable. “It’s important to choose foods that are easily portioned out and easy to serve yourself while you are seated,” said Costello. The caterers also have to use vessels that hold these foods properly, are not cumbersome to pass and utensils that are simple to use.

Costello says family style service also requires training the servers to interact with the guests and to gauge the dynamics of those sitting at each table. “Our staff need to be instructive with the guests, and servers should be sensitive to the individuals and the vibe of the table, to assess their comfort level in passing food,” Costello said.

She suggests perhaps doing a family style service for a portion of the meal, such as pass-

Food stations offer more variety than the typical buffet. And each can be its own mini-meal—you can keep going back to one, ore try all of them. ing the main course around after the salads have been served. It can get your guests talking and getting to know each other, even turning a bigger affair into an intimate feast.

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©signature studios

3

The wedding brunch And no, not the day-after-the-wedding brunch, but actually having brunch following the ceremony instead of a nighttime reception. Schaefer says wedding brunches are very popular on the East and West coasts now and will be here soon, as well. “If having a bar is not a priority for you, the brunch opens you up to a wealth of possibilities,” Schaefer said.

“You can have a beautiful event well within your budget.” In fact, Schaefer himself is getting married in March and has chosen a luncheon

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What’s on Your Plate? wedding (look for his wedding to be featured in the next issue of St. Louis Bride)!

4

Personalize, personalize, personalize Perhaps the biggest overall trend is how brides and their beloveds are incorporating the culinary aspect of the wedding into the theme of their day and into their taste, style and personal history.

Couples can represent themselves by offering food stations, rather than having one long buffet. Costello said, “Food stations offer more variety than the typical buffet. And each can be its own mini-meal—you can keep going back to one, or try all of them.”

Kaczmarczyk recalls a bride and groom that offered food stations serving dishes from each of the places the couple had lived together: Scotland, New York City and St. Louis.

Schaefer and his team at Steven Becker Fine Dining created a mini rib station for a groom from Texas and a vodka bar for a bride with a Russian heritage.

Food stations are an easy way to offer foods from the different cultures or heritages of the two families. A couple may be hesitant to serve Indian food exclusively at their reception, for instance, but a food station giving the guests a chance to try Indian specialties could be ideal.

Personalization can also work with a sitdown dinner, choosing one dish to be regionspecific or a culture represented with appetizers during cocktail hour.

We have probably all been to a reception that offered a “signature” cocktail. But sometimes the drink was just something pretty that the couple slapped their name on, with no real story behind it. But signature drinks are now becoming more personal. “People are realizing the drink does not have to be a martini,” Schaefer said. “They really want it to be an expression of them as a couple.”

The drink can be something they enjoyed on their first date or something that includes an ingredient they both love.

Costello says the bar can even be customized with beers from the groom’s favorite hometown microbrewery or with wines from wineries they’ve visited.

5

Something Blue….Cobalt Blue For the “something blue” in the “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” tradition, it will be cobalt blue for 2014, says Schaefer. “Cobalt blue is liked and worn by both men and women and will be the color for weddings throughout the year,” he said. Including food?

“Yes, it will be a challenge creatively,” said Schaefer. “Blue is the least occurring color in the culinary world. Look for unique blue garnishes, wrappings, cocktails, candy stations, and of course, blueberries.” ♥ 192

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Are We There Yet? (Continued from page 178)

Passport: Carrying around a birth certificate

doesn’t work. Apply at least 6 weeks prior to • Where have you traveled already?

• What do you want to do during the day? your departure date and get a passport. All countries, including Mexico and Canada, will • How important is food? require it. It’s also a one-size-fits-all as a photo • What countries intrigue you?

ID. Check with the Kirkwood Public Library, • Are you a sunrise or sunset person? various St. Louis Post Offices and online venues • A beach or a mountain lover?

• Like to wake up to the sun or do you that process passports.

Itinerary Copies! Leave a list of flights and prefer to see the sun set?

accommodations with family or friends, and carry a copy along in accessible carry-on bag.

Prescriptions: Ideal to take them in original (script) packaging.

Sign up now! Reserve the hard-to-get activities at the honeymoon destinations. Your travel agent can assist. If you’re desperate to swim with the dolphins, sign up before you even get there. Camel rides on the beach? Also intense-

• All-inclusive or a la carte?

• Adults only or family/across-the-board venues?

PAPERWORK…

Pursue early and don’t forget because paperwork and “shots” take time. Approached early, there’s no stress and no extra fees paid for overnighting paperwork.

Vaccinations: Honeymooners headed to the

Caribbean or Europe typically do not require vaccinations. Verify, however and carry proof of any needed. Read up with the CDC who offers excellent comprehensive health & safety travel info: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/ vaccinations.htm

©gorbash varvara/shutterstock

Reserve the hard-to-get activities at the honeymoon destinations.

Your travel agent can assist. If you're desperate to swim with the dolphins, sign up before you even get there.

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Are We There Yet? ly popular. Sign before you go.

Check on use and charges regarding all the services on your cell phone and e-tablet prior to leaving. Call provider

or read contract carefully. Not good to get smacked with $50-a-minute internet use.

Decide: Where (in what and in which bag) will you carry your passport, license, tickets, and important phone numbers?

Currency: What’s widely acceptable where you’re going? Euros, pounds, American dollars? Have some in hand, along with your credit cards.

Phone numbers: Have travel agent phone in your list/speed dial. They are direct line to making anything that might be “wrong” go “right.”

PAPERWORK, PART 2…

Travel insurance deserves more than a glance.

• It allows trip cancellation for a host of reasonable reasons.

• Ultimately, it may allow re-scheduling a trip for a typically nominal ($99 person) fee.

• Read carefully. Read fine print. Ask questions. Ask the pros (travel agents).

Even though returning honeymooners often confess they over packed, do not think about that now. Load up. The suitcase can be edited the last few nights before the departure.

• Get mani/pedis and haircuts before leaving to hit the beach or the boulevards ready to go. (If honeymoon directly follows wedding, this is likely not necessary. Truth: Resort spas have allure; so book even before trip departure.

• Ponder the pre-tan. Best to take sunscreen and avoid the whole issue.

• Practice fitness before leaving. A strong core helps when carrying luggage, and overall fitness/toning is advantageous for those jumping on jet skis, climbing cathedral steps and skiing the Alps.

• Promenade in new footwear! Try on and wear any new shoes. Test out the new hiking boots before packing those

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5-pounders. Things like blisters (and sunburns) are honeymoon no-no’s.

PACKING, SERIOUSLY…

Even though returning honeymooners often confess they over packed, do not think about that now. Load up. The suitcase can be edited the last few nights before departure. And what are you throwing in that suitcase? Shop now, stateside, to save big bucks. Hotel gift shops and those cool contempo hospitality vending machines with everything in little envelopes like aspirin, stain removers, hair pins and nail files are handy, but can be pricey. Zip lock bags, yes really, are great for packing. Not only are they waterproof but allow complete visibility. You (and the TSA) can see what you have at a glance.

• Little black dress and sundresses.

• Jeans, shorts, tops and tees. Coordinate “outfits,” then roll and pack ‘em.

• Evening purse, day tote.

• Sandals, flops and old sneakers to ruin in rain forest mud or rocky mountain streams.

• Packing for him, too? He needs at least polo, shoes and khakis, for dining.

Perfectly Lovely...

Relax. Most resorts are versatile and accommodating. Some will have hair dryers, umbrellas, sewing kits, carryalls, games, books, and CD and DVD libraries. If you cannot suitcase all your trip needs, your resort accommodations likely will have everything from toiletries to towels available.

Little must-haves that take up no space:

• Sunscreen and lip balm.

• Aloe vera lotion—because you didn’t pack the sunscreen!

• Sunglasses – several pair.

• Crushable sun hat and baseball cap, for both of you.

• Insect repellent wipes and Band-Aids.

• Pain reliever, antacid and antihistamine; also motion sickness med.

• Deck of cards: Great pastime when a flight’s delayed, for camping evenings or beachside huts…just because. No batteries needed.

• Empty canvas tote– for shopping, carrying stuff to pool/beach and getting souvenirs home.

• Stain stick to spot clean your favorite threads, immediately!

• Scotch tape– as lint remover, to hold up a hem or tape love notes all over the bathroom mirror.

Bigger Must-Haves

• E-readers, books, and magazines: One saves you space, the second can stay behind in hotel library, and the third? Who doesn’t travel without a hot-off-the-press magazine?

• Chargers! All of them: for phone, iPod, camera, e-reader.

Clothes

• Evening wrap: sweater, shawl, pashmina. Cool nights often follow warm days. The wrap can dress up an outfit. See “accessories.”

• Lingerie, undies (get ‘em coordinated) and nightwear.

• Bathing suits AND cover-up which allows walking through lobbies/ dining areas.

• Accessories – jewelry, belts, bags – for changing basic style.

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Are We There Yet? PACK OTHER NEEDS, NICETIES AND ACCESSORIES… 2 - 3 Cameras – Cell phone camera. Point-and-

shoot camera with SD card and charger, and what about an underwater camera, available in disposable format?

Cash – for off-site vendors and side trips.

Guidebook – because you’re not taking your laptop to look things up.

A journal – because you’re not taking your lap-

top to write things down.

A (small) candle – for atmosphere, celebration.

Small gift/token for him.

POINTS FROM THE PROS TO CONSIDER… On sleeping: “The honeymoon is not the aver-

age vacation nor is it something you can do over, so we recommend getting the best room that the budget will allow…the honeymoon couple should have a room that is romantic, unique, memorable

and totally stress-free,” Mike Schellhase at the Travel Haus St. Louis said. So if it comes down to spending on a fabulous room and therefore cutting your stay one night shorter, do it.

On cash: Get $100 in the currency of the country you’re visiting to cover a cab, maybe a meal, a quick coffee. Debit and credit cards work for in-country cash, dependent on rate of exchange that day. A little cash can goes a long way when bargaining at the market.

Practice fitness before leaving. A strong core helps when carrying luggage, and overall fitness is advantageous for those jumping on jet skis, climbing cathedral steps and skiing the Alps.

On safety: Resorts have security. Like anywhere

however, be attentive to surroundings at night. some countries, it’s cheaper (and you'll avoid getting lost) to hire a driver/taxi.

On drinking water: Out-of-country, drink approved water only. Ask its source and what your greens were washed in.

On language: It’s worth brushing up on the language(s) of your host country. While you may not be fluent, your polite efforts are appreciated.

Note that English speakers are found in even far flung places.

PONDER, before squishing the suitcase closed…

Now what did I forget? ♥ 196

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On getting around: Investigate car rental. In

If I Had a Do-Over (Continued from page 174) overzealous with the store scanner, she still could have handled all those presents differently. “Sometimes registry picks are just there to make gift giving easier on your guests, and once received you can go back to the store and exchange for something else,” suggested Caroline. “For the frugal bride, you can get great deals on big-ticket kitchen items throughout the year. I feel like my gift dollars could have gone a lot farther if I had used the return method and then waited for a good deal to surface over the coming months. There are other

ways to create unique registries as well, such as a honeymoon fund, which gives guests more flexibility in what kind of gifts to give.”

CAPTURE THE MEMORIES When planning your wedding, the budget is in consideration of every decision made. But sometimes certain services are eliminated that brides may end up regretting. Kelly Whitney

wishes they had hired a videographer. “After the fact, I realized that our wedding day just flew by. It’s amazing how much time, energy and preparation it takes and then it’s over so quickly!” Kelly said.

Ali McKay feels the same way. “I wish I had hired a videographer for the ceremony,” Ali said. “It went by so quickly and the way the room was set up, there just weren't

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Megan Curley loved her wedding planner, but she wishes whe had hired her from the get-go.

“We had hired her for the month leading up to the wedding and the wedding day. But given how much she helped us out, I should have contacted her earlier.”

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If I Had a Do-Over enough pictures.”

Not hiring a videographer was an almostregret for Sarah Wernsman. “We didn't think we needed one until maybe three months before the wedding and almost everyone was booked,” said Sarah. “But our amazing wedding planner, Lacy Branch, found us an excellent one from Chicago. And it really was worth every penny!”

Taking pictures before the wedding was something Caroline wishes she and her fiancé had done. “I think an engagement photography session would have helped to prepare my husband and I to be photographed together,” Caroline said. “In the beginning on our wedding day, we were a bit awkward in front of the camera and I think it shows in some of our pictures. This could have been helped if

we had taken engagement pictures.”

Stress Less, Sleep More It’s easier said than done, but Caroline wishes she could have stressed less in the days leading up to the wedding and on the big day itself. She said: “I wish I could have relaxed a bit more and trusted that things would work themselves out, instead of trying to micro-manage so much in the days before the wedding. The stress caused me a lack of sleep in the days prior to the wedding. The actual day was long and I was exhausted by the end of it more so because of my sleep deprivation!”

Don’t Pass Over the Paperwork Linda Tarlecki spent a full year planning her wedding, down to the last detail. “But we were so focused on everything from hors d’oeuvres to vows that we completely forgot about what happens after the party,” Linda said. When she and her new husband arrived at the hotel to retrieve their keys to the honeymoon suite, the hotel staff asked for identification to verify

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“I wish I could have relaxed a bit more and trusted that things would work themselves out, instead of trying to micro-manage so much in the days before the wedding. The stress caused me a lack of sleep in the days prior to the wedding.”

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the reservation. Neither of them had any identification. “We were caught off guard, to say the least, but I quickly remembered that along with my bouquet and a slice of wedding cake, was an envelope containing our marriage certificate!” said Linda.

Ali and her husband didn’t realize they needed to get a marriage license before the ceremony. “As silly as it sounds, it wasn’t until after the ceremony when I was going to change my name that I realized we never got the license,” Ali said. “So the date on our marriage license is not the actual date of our wedding.”

to Turks and Caicos, which was nice, but not nearly as long as we would have wanted.”

Timing the Trends Some brides may have included other elements in their weddings, but it’s just a matter of timing-no one had thought of it yet. Erin Darling loves the trend of a couple serving traditional St. Louis snacks at the reception. “I have

been to weddings where Gus’s pretzels and Ted Drewes frozen custard were brought out much later in the evening, after everyone has had a chance to eat dinner and dance awhile,” Erin said.

Erin also thinks a particular website would have been fun and helpful in planning her wedding. “Personally, I wish Pinterest was around five years ago! I love ‘pinning’ and I

Go With Your Gut (And If Not, Go with a Wedding Planner) Sometimes brides cave to pressure from family or friends in choosing their vendors. Ellen Gutierrez, wedding planner with Bride’s Vision Weddings and Events, has seen it happen.

Nothing terrible has resulted, but often the bride wishes she had trusted her wedding planner’s recommendation. Ellen recalled a bride who wasn’t crazy about a band that her friends liked, but she hired them anyway, and came away disappointed. “If you hire wedding planners, their expertise and the relationships and experience they have with vendors is part of what you’re paying for,” Ellen said.

Megan Curley loved her wedding planner, but she wishes she had hired her from the getgo. “We just hired her for the month leading up to the wedding and the wedding day. She was a lifesaver and made the day of the wedding stress-free,” Megan said. “But given how much she helped us out, I should have contacted her earlier, as soon as we started planning.”

Consider the Logistics Megan was married in August, and had an outdoor reception. “Looking back, I would have picked a different month for an outdoor reception,” Megan said. “August in the Midwest can be miserable for dancing under a tent all night.

The weather was so extreme—rain and heat— that I couldn't stop looking at the forecast in the days leading up to the wedding.”

Speaking of rain, it rained on Ali’s wedding day, which was a factor for how her bridal gown fared. “As much as I loved my dress, I wish I had changed for the reception or that my dress had a lighter skirt or train,” Ali said. “During the reception, when I was dancing or even walking around, my dress was very heavy. To make matters worse, the rain made the bottom of my dress pretty muddy and wet.”

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If I Had a Do-Over know I would have had a lot of fun making my ‘wedding board,’” said Erin.

NO REGRETS, JUST REAFFIRMATIONS Elizabeth Maxson had a difficult time limiting the guest list while planning her wedding, but is glad she stuck to her guns. “We really wanted the wedding to be small and personal and I would do it again in a heartbeat,” Elizabeth said. “It wasn't about cost, but about creating

a day with meaningful memories. And I didn't run myself ragged on the important day trying to visit with so many people.”

As a former boutique owner, and now a stylist, writer and photographer, Elizabeth’s creative touch was evident throughout her wedding. “I am glad I custom-designed my and my husband's wedding outfits,” Elizabeth said. “While not everyone can custom-design their dress or groom's outfit, I would highly suggest that something special is

added to the dress, even if it is bought off the rack, to make it ‘yours.’ Even if it’s only taking a special silk ribbon from your grandmother's shawl, or your father's bow-tie from his old tux, and fashioning it into a special rose or bow somewhere on the dress, it will make all the difference because it is personal and one-of-a-kind—just like the bride!”

Speaking of creating meaningful memories, Ali wishes she had written her own vows. She and her future husband had discussed writing their

I would highly suggest that something special is added to your dress, even if it’s bought off the rack, to make it ‘yours.’

own vows, then decided to go with the standard vows. “But during the ceremony, when it came time to say our vows, my husband surprised me by writing his own and reading them to me,” Ali said. “It was super sweet and romantic, but I wasn’t sure what to do and sort-of half cried, halfmumbled the vows that were read to me.”

Kimberly Gottlieb and her now-husband Brent have been together for 10 years, and now married for four. Their engagement was four years long, longer than they planned, because of Kimberly’s cancer diagnosis, subsequent treatment and remission. “I am still so grateful for my health and that we were finally able to be married, that I can only look on my wedding day as a joyful occasion and also as only one day of my life,” Kimberly said. “My advice for future brides planning their wedding is to keep things in perspective and to not sweat the small stuff. Life is messy and imperfect and it is only fitting that a wedding day would be the same.” ♥ 200

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PUTTING IT ALL IN PERSPECTIVE

Bridal Fashion Week (Continued from page 106) OFF THE SHOULDER NECKLINES

I am happy to report the neckline of the season is definitely off the shoulder! It graced every runway show and designer I visited. This neckline style is so flattering because it still shows off your décolletage, but provides a little more coverage and interest than a strapless gown.

DRAMATIC BACKS

ILLUSION NECKLINES

The interest on wedding gowns has shifted to the back. Every designer had at least one plunging-back design in their Fall 2014 collection. We also saw quite a few illusion backs. These are excellent for the bride who wants to create drama without a lot of bulk or beading. The look of a plunging back is stunning with or without a veil.

Neckline variation is so exciting for me. This season another hot neckline is sheer illusion.

It was shown in organza, sheer lace, and even delicate beading. This look creates a very classic and elegant silhouette that flatters nearly every figure. I am so happy to see it re-emerge on the runway this season. (Continued on next page)

GOLD

A staple at Fall 2014 Bridal Market was gold.

Many designers incorporated it into their collection through gold thread woven into laces, providing a subtle hint of metallic shimmer.

Accessories seem to be taking on more of golden hue, in both gold and my favorite rose gold. This warm metallic tone was a breath of fresh air against the flurry of blush tone gowns being shown. I am sure this trend will translate into wedding décor as well.

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The hot trend for bridesmaids is lace! Lace has been so popular for brides for many seasons.

Now bridesmaids get to share in the fun.

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Bridal Fashion Week BRIDESMAIDS IN LACE

The hot trend for bridesmaids is lace! Lace has been so popular for brides for many seasons, now maids get to share in the fun. Lace was shown in both short and long silhouettes, in pastels, in neutrals (grey, champagne, and black) and in metallic. I just simply cannot get enough! As an event stylist this is welcome trend. It allows bridesmaids' dresses to be

more stylish and fun.

BLUSH

Blush made a debut last season as the colordu-jour in bridal, but this season Vera Wang brought it to another level by showing her entire collection in various shades of pink! Vera’s selected more intense hues of the color for her pieces, however, I foresee these choices being

more popular for bridesmaids rather than the brides but who knows! It cannot be denied that brides respond more openly to gowns in a subtle blush tone. Blush is truly a romantic color that flatters all skin tones and it seems this trend will continue in varying shades this season.

TEXTURE

In contrast to what we saw with the bridesmaid styles, designers were showing striking textures as an alternative to lace, which has been extremely popular over the last few seasons. Texture is a stunning option for a fall or winter wedding.

I absolutely was floored by the resurgence of capes/shawls. For too long, especially in chilly St. Louis, the options were limited for brides to stylishly cover themselves.

CAPES

Laser-cut leather, lace dots, faux fur, wool, and everything in between. I absolutely was floored by the resurgence of capes/shawls. For too long, especially in chilly St. Louis, the options were limited for brides to stylishly cover themselves. This season sets the stage that these are no longer a photographer's nightmare.

Halo-veils, floral headbands, small golden crowns and crocheted headbands were worn low and wrapped around the temple. Brides can do this with a large, voluminous veil or with a short, wispy blusher. ♥ 202

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After the Party (Continued from page 176) Pack something a little more comfortable to slip into when you get to the room. Terry Levine, owner of Clair de Lune Lingerie boutique, says brides-to-be select a variety of different options depending on their age and tastes.

“Some brides still tend to favor the traditional long, white or ivory gown with a matching robe. But many, especially the younger brides, tend to prefer the shorter chemise or baby doll also with a matching robe or wrap,” she says.

Levine says many brides choose something they can wear on their honeymoon and after.

“Especially for destination weddings, the brides tend to choose something more beach oriented versus the more traditional lacy garment,” she says.

a speaker so you can listen to music that is meaningful to both of you as you relax.

Have Reasonable Expectations

Whether you’ve had sexual experience prior to your wedding night or not, the expectations are the same. Everyone wants their wedding night to be a memorable, monumental experience that they can look back on with wonderful memories.

But weddings, while romantic and lovely, also cause a lot of factors that can interfere with a romantic evening. There is exhaustion, stress of interacting with family all day, alcohol consumption and even post-wedding letdown now that the big party you’ve been planning for months is over.

“Marriage is all about communicating, discussing expectations and compromising. Your wedding night is no exception,” says Heather

Take some flowers from the reception to the hotel with you and place them around the room or sprinkle rose petals over the bed.

These simple touches will help to create a serene, romantic setting after a busy day.

Set the Scene

To continue the essence of your wedding, bring some elements of the day to the hotel with you.

Bring a bottle of wine from the reception to drink together while you enjoy a moment of peace and quiet to reflect on your day.

Josie Littlepage, owner of Cosmopolitan Events, sends a couple of pieces of wedding cake and champagne to the newlywed’s hotel room.

“It’s a little taste of the wedding for them to share,” she says.

She also suggests taking some flowers from the reception to the hotel with you and placing them around the room or sprinkling rose petals over the bed. These simple touches will help create a serene, romantic setting after a busy day.

“So much of the reception is about surprises for the guests. Now the couple needs to pamper themselves and have some fun with it,” says Littlepage.

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After the Party Raznick, licensed clinical social worker and certified sex therapist.

Wedding night sex can be a complicated mix of high expectations and the stress to perform to those expectations. But couples can avoid this dilemma with communication and preparation.

“There is a high probability that the sexual interaction, if not discussed beforehand, will

be disappointing. But if couples discuss their expectations for the wedding night ahead of time and set expectations appropriately, it can be a wonderful experience,” says Raznick.

Being prepared for the wedding night experience goes beyond lingerie and setting the mood, especially for a couple that has waited until their wedding night to have sex. Raznick points out that things don’t

always work the way they do in the movies.

Preparations need to be made in advance to address issues such as birth control and lubrication. A visit to the gynecologist or a heartto-heart with a trusted family member or close married friend may be necessary. On the big night, a romantic candlelit bath or giving each other massages may help both the bride and groom relax and prepare for the moment.

Couples who are sexually active already may want to discuss ways to spice up the wedding night and make it special. Some couples agree to a vow of celibacy for a certain time before the wedding to promote a feeling of eager anticipation for the wedding night.

Or perhaps there is something new you both want to try that you can save for your wedding night.

Avoid Health Issues

Scheduling a visit with your gynecologist may be beneficial prior to your wedding, especially if you haven’t been sexually active. Your doctor can help you determine the method of birth control that is best for you and discuss common issues that arise, such as honeymoon cystitis, a term used for a bladder infection.

“It is not uncommon for women to develop a bladder infection on her honeymoon when she is having sex for the first time, more frequent sex or more vigorous sex,” says Thomas Whalen, MD, an OB/GYN at Mercy Medical Center.

Honeymoon cystitis is caused when bacteria such as E. coli, which is found in the bowel, enters the urethra. During sex, penetration can cause bacteria to be pushed into the vagina and may lead to infection.

Symptoms include a burning or painful sensation during urination, cloudy or blood-tinged urine and the urge to urinate frequently, none of which are welcome on a honeymoon.

Once diagnosed, a bladder infection can be treated with antibiotics. However, Whalen says there are some simple ways to prevent infections. Drinking cranberry juice acidifies the urine, making it less hospitable to bacteria. Emptying the bladder immediately after intercourse will help flush the bacteria from the urethra. Avoiding large amounts of caffeine and drinking plenty of water also help.

There is a higher chance of infection if you have sex during your period or if you are susceptible to bladder infections. In either of these cases, you should ask your doctor about using an antibiotic to prevent infection.

Just like the ceremony and reception, your wedding night will be a success with a little planning, communication and creativity. ♥

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Short, Sweet and Simple

©pam bredenkamp

More couples are turning to elopement for a romantic and intimate wedding experience By a m y z i m m e r m a n

Jon and Kathy Colon wanted their wedding day to be nice, simple and easy. Both had been married previously and had no interest in an extravagant wedding. They considered a civil ceremony before a justice of the peace, but had heard stories of people waiting in line for hours at the courthouse. A “take a number” wedding was not appealing.

“We wanted someone to come to us, to have the ceremony where we chose and to do it by our rules,” says Kathy.

They turned to the Internet for help and found elopeinstlouis.com, a Web site run by Carolyn Burke, who offers short, sweet and simple elopement packages. So on the date of their choosing, November 12, 2013 or 11/12/13, they were married in front of about ten guests at Jon’s loft in downtown St. Louis.

Burke, a wedding minister ordained through the Universal Life Church, worked as a wedding planner for a number of St. Louis area churches before starting her own business. She soon found there was significant demand for someone who could officiate an elopement.

Couples choose elopement for several reasons. Cost typically is an issue. Some couples prefer to have a small, elegant ceremony and spend their money as a down payment on home instead of a lavish reception. Often when both the bride and groom have been married previously they aren’t interested in a full-blown affair. And some couples simply aren’t comfortable with the attention focused on the bride and groom. They don’t want hundreds of people looking at them as they say their vows and fussing over them during the months of preparation. They feel a simple, intimate ceremony is more fitting for their personalities.

Shelli Alred, owner of Alred Wedding Consultants, offers an elopement package. She says most couples choosing elopement want something that is simple, fast and romantic. They typically are low-key couples who are more focused on the marriage than the wedding itself.

“One couple I worked with recently had just purchased a home together. They got married on the front step of their new home on the day they moved in, so the (Continued on next page)

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Short, Sweet and Simple (Continued from page 205) groom carried the bride over the threshold of their new home together,” says Alred.

And then there are the couples who elope for the adventure. They show up in a public place, possibly a restaurant or a park, and tie the knot in the midst of diners or runners. One hitch in the spontaneous elopement is finding the required two witnesses to the ceremony.

“You don’t have to know them. I usually just ask people walking by,” says Burke who for a ceremony at Citygarden in downtown St. Louis asked guards from a nearby office building to serve as witnesses.

“I performed a ceremony at the top of the Arch on St. Patrick’s Day and the couple I asked to serve as witnesses were celebrating their wedding anniversary,” she says.

The marriage license requirements in Missouri make it an ideal destination for elopements. There is no waiting period—couples can apply for a license and get married on the same day. Also, a marriage license granted by any jurisdiction in Missouri is legal anywhere in the state. Illinois and most other states require couples to marry in the same county where they applied for the license.

“So if you are from a rural part of Missouri where it may be difficult to find an officiant to perform an elopement, you can get your marriage license from the county where you live and still get married anywhere in the state,” says Burke.

But eloping isn’t always as easy at it seems.

Elopements often are spur of the moment and certainly don’t involve months of planning. Some couples have a difficult time finding officiants to perform the ceremony and photographers available on short notice. Coordinators such as Alred

The marriage license requirements in Missouri make it an ideal destination for elopements.

There is no waiting period—couples can apply for a license and get married on the same day. and Burke help.

Burke offers a deluxe package that includes the officiant and ceremony, bouquet and boutonniere for the bride and groom and a professional photographer for 30 minutes and 30 images. Or she can simply show up at the location of your choosing and perform the ceremony.

Alred offers an elopement package that includes an officiant to perform the ceremony, a bouquet and boutonniere for the bride and groom, a 2-tier cake, a photographer for 3 hours with an album, 25 wedding announcements to send to friends and family, one-night accommodations at a luxury hotel in St. Louis and transportation from the ceremony to the hotel.

Interest in these sweet and simple ceremonies is increasing and St. Louis, with beautiful parks like Tower Grove, unique hotels like the Moonrise and romantic restaurants like Scape, make it an ideal destination.

Kathy and Jon Colon are pleased with their decision to elope.

“It was everything we wanted—short, sweet and simple but still elegant. Everything came together perfectly and it was a great experience,” says Kathy. ♥ 206

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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)

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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) ♥

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reception sites

108 of our favorite reception venues

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Ameristar Casino Resort Spa 636-940-4300, (Ad on page 61)

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 101)

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

Y

500

400

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Barnett on Washington By: Copia, 314-241-9463 (Ad on page 188)

3207 Washington Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63103

Y

350

200

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Beyond Broadway 314-621-9598, (Ad on page 21)

(Patty Long Catering) 63104 www.pattylongcatering.com

Y

500

300

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Bissinger’s Event Space - Coming Soon, 314-615-2480 (Ad on page 29)

1600 North Broadway, 63102

Y

500

325

Y

Y

N

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 236)

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

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 39)

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

Y

500

250

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Ces & Judy’s LeChateau 314-991-6700 (Ad on page 203)

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 133)

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 105)

One Brookings Drive, 63130 www.olin.wustl.edu/knightcenter

Y

300

200

Y

Y

N

call

call

Y

Chase Park Plaza 314-633-3000, (Ad on page 19)

212 Kingshighway, 63108 www.chaseparkplaza.com

Y

3000 1300

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

City Cottage on Chouteau 314-961-7588, (Ad on page 22)

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

The Coronado Ballroom & Meeting Facility 314-367-4848, (Ad on page 57)

3701 Lindell Blvd., 63108 www.thecoronado.com

N

150

110

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

Y

600

350

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Crowne Plaza St. Louis Airport 314-291-6700, (Ad on page 210)

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 185)

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

Y

350

350

Y

Y

call

Y

N

Y

208

(FROM left) ©JON KOCH PHOTOGRAPHY; ©MNC PHOTOGRAPHY

CEREMONY SITE

Whether your party is upscale and elegant or informal and fun, you’ll find the perfect venue in our comprehensive list below.

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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

Donald Danforth Plant Science Center 314-587-1077

975 N. Warson Road, 63132 www.danforthcenter.org

Y

350

250

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

DoubleTree by Hilton Collinsville/St. Louis 618-345-2800, (Ad on page 209)

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 222)

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 173)

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

The Edge of Webster, 314-962-6886, (Ad on page 222)

359 Marshall Avenue, 63119 www.theedgeofwebster.com

Y

300

220

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Y

250

200

Y

N

Y

Y

n/a

N

The Falls Reception & Conference Center 888-538-3354, (Ad on page 108)

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

Y

1200

600

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Flamingo Bowl, 314-436-6666, (Ad on page 248)

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

Foundry Art Centre 636-255-0270, (Ad on page 190)

520 North Main Center, St. Charles, 63301 www.foundryartcentre.org

Y

call

420

N

N

Y

Y

N

N

Four Points by Sheraton 618-622-9500, (Ad on page 209)

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 7)

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 233)

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 inside back cover)

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

Y

240

210

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

The Gateway Arch Riverboats, 314-923-3047 (Ad on page 193)

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

Y

240

220

Y

Y

N

N

Y

N

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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

Grand Hall on Chouteau 314-427-6771 (Ad on page 226)

(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 226)

(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 213)

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 119)

6921 South Lindbergh Boulevard, 63125 www.holidayinn.com

Holiday Inn Route 66, 314-821-6600 (Ad on page 143)

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 137)

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 15)

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

Y

3500 2000

N

Y

N

call

N

Y

Kemoll’s Restaurant 314-421-0555, (Ad on page 175)

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 97)

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

Lockhaven Golf Club 618-466-2441 or 618-466-2861, (Ad on page 141)

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 117)

4398 Hoffmeister, 63125 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com

Y

125

80

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

reception sites

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CAPACITY SEATED

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ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Y

60

60

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Lumen Private Event Space, 314-241-5757, (Ad on page 85) Y 600

2201 Locust, 63103 www.lumenstl.com

Marriott St. Louis Airport 314-253-5234, (Ad on page 232) Y 800

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

300

N

Y

N

N

N

N

600

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

LoRusso’s Cucina 314-647-6222, (Ad on page 237)

3121 Watson Road, 63139 www.lorussos.com

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 227)

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

Y

1500

300

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Monarch Private Event Space, 314-769-9595

7401 Manchester Road, St. Louis, MO 63143 www.monarcheventspace.com

Y

400

330

N

Y

N

N

Y

N

Moonrise Hotel 314-721-1111, (Ad on page 123)

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 206)

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 139)

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 21)

(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 37)

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

Old Post Office (Desco Group), 314-436-0101, (Ad on page 230)

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

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ON SITE CATERING

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ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Orlando’s Event & Conference Centers, 314-638-6660, (Ad on page 117)

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 117)

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 117)

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 101)

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 32)

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 173)

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 235) 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 194)

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

Y

500

275

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

Regency Conference Center 618-624-4499, (Ad on page 125)

400 Regency Park Drive, O'Fallon, IL 62269 www.theregencyconferencecenter.com

Y

1800 1000

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Renaissance Grand and Suites Hotel 314-418-5820, (Ad on page 47)

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 13)

100 Carondelet Plaza, 63105 www.ritzcarlton.com

River City Event Center and Casino, 314-881-7800 (Ad on page 179)

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

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, 314-259-3200, (Ad on page 246)

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

N

100

80

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

reception sites

212

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CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Saint Louis Art Museum 314-655-5387, (Ad on page 71)

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 67)

One Government Drive, Forest Park www.stlzoo.org

Y

unltd.

500

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

The Sheldon Concert Hall & Ballroom 314-533-9900, (Ad on page 226)

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 228)

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 228)

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 197)

400 South 14th Street, 63103 www.sheraton.com/stlouiswedding

Y

800

550

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Shrewsbury Ballroom and Banquet Center 314-647-1003 (Ad on page 240)

5200 Shrewsbury Avenue, Shrewsbury, 63119 www.cityofshrewsbury.com

Y

300

240

N

N

Y

Y

N

N

Soulard Preservation Hall 314-427-6771 (Ad on page 226)

(Russo's Catering) 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 249) (Catering by Russo’s) 12031 Lackland Road, 63146 www.russosgourmet.com

N

350

300

N

Y

N

ask

ask

Y

Sqwires Annex 314-865-3522

1415 South 18th Sreet, 63104 www.sqwires.com

Y

200

150

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

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 213)

1820 Market Street, 63103 www.stlunionstationhotel.com

Y

500

500

N

Y

call

N

N

Y

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

212 North Kingshighway, 63108 www.chaseparkplaza.com

Y

600

340

Y

Y

N

call

N

Y

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ON SITE CATERING

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CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Stone Hill Winery & Restaurant 1-800-909-WINE

1110 Stone Hill Hwy., Hermann, 65041

The Studio Inn 636-458-0131, (Ad on inside back cover)

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

Y

500

300

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

240

210

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Sugar Creek Winery and Vineyards 636-987-2400, (Ad on page 95)

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 103)

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 109)

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

Y

300

200

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

The Tavern Kitchen & Bar, 636-825-0600 (Ad on page 169)

2961 Dougherty Ferry Rd., Valley Park, MO 63122 www.tavernstl.com

N

225

160

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Third Degree Glass Factory, 314-367-4527 (Ad on page 218) 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 175)

(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 204)

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 194)

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

Y

500

275

N

Y

N

N

N

Y

Windows On Washington 314-241-5555, (Ad on page 127)

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 226)

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

Y

400

350

N

Y

N

Y

a

N

reception sites

17TH ANNUAL WEDDING CONNECTION

Bridal Show

SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2014 ~ FROM 1:00PM TO 4:30PM CHASE PARK PLAZA – KHORASSAN BALLROOM 212 NORTH KINGSHIGHWAY, CENTRAL WEST END REGISTER AT WWW.BRIDESTL.COM

PRESENTED BY: ABBIE TAKES PICTURES ~ BREEZE BLOW DRY BAR ~ CHASE PARK PLAZA ~ DISTINCTIONS GRAND RENTAL ~ KATE & COMPANY ~ SAINT LOUIS ZOO ~ SCHNUCKS FLORIST & GIFTS TOWN & COUNTRY BRIDAL BOUTIQUE ~ TRAVEL HAUS OF ST. LOUIS

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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

219

Bachelorette Parties

219

Beauty & Health

219

Bridal Gowns & Salons

219 219

Cakes & Confections

220

Calligraphers

220

Caterers

220

Ceremony Sites

221

Consultants/Event Planners

221

Decorations

222

Destination Weddings

222

Favors

223

Financial Planner/Realtors

223

Florists

223

Formalwear

224

Foundations & Lingerie

225

Gifts

225

Gown Preservation

226

Honeymoons

226

Invitations/Stationers

226

Jewelry

227

Lighting & Décor

227

Mother of the Bride

228

Music & Entertainment

228

Officiants

229

Online Planning

229

Photobooths

230

Photographers

230

Reception Sites

208

Registry

231

Rehearsal Dinner Sites

232

Rentals

236

Special Touches

236

Transportation

237

Videographers

237

216

©Benfield Photography

Bridal Shows

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spring 2014 trunk show calendar ✦ Fleur de lis bridal boutique 314.721.2457 Elizabeth Fillmore, January 10-12 Kirribilla and Erin Cole, January 16-26 Modern Trousseau, January 24-26 Liancarlo, March 7-9 Rivini, March 21-23

✦ Town and Country Bridal Boutique

©Benfield Photography

314.863.7200 Legends by Romana Keveza, January 10-12 Monique Lhuillier, March 7-9 Lea-Ann Belter, Meet the designer, February 7-9

✦ Simply Elegant Bridal 314.241.8201 Enzoani, January 31-February 8 Allure Bridals, March 21-22 Meg Jewelry, Meet the designer, March 28-29 Allure Bridals, April 11-12

✦ The Ultimate Bride 314.961.9997 Valentine Special Events, February 14-18 Essence of Australia, February 28-March 2 Augusta Jones, March 21-23 Tara Keely, April 26-27 Jim Hjelm, May 16-18 Memorial Weekend Special Event, May 23-25 Pronovias, June 20-22

✦ Frew's Bridal Salon 618.466.8820 Watters, January 10-12 Faviana, January 17, 18, 19 & 20 David Tutera, January 24-26 Allure, January 31–Feb 2 Alyce Paris, February 14, 15, 16,& 17 Bonny Bridal, February 21, 22 & 23 Eden Bridal, March 7, 8 & 9 David Tutera, March 28, 29 & 30 Sophia Tolli, April 4, 5 & 6 Casablanca Couture, April 11, 12 & 13 Watters, May 2, 3 & 4 Allure Bridal, May 9, 10 & 11 WTOO Bridal, May 30 & 31

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

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Essential Guide ACCOMMODATIONS Also see RECEPTION SITES listings on page 208

218

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

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

Holiday Inn – St. Louis/Fairview Heights 618-212-1300 www.histlouishotel.com

CROWNE PLAZA DOWNTOWN ST. LOUIS 200 North Fourth Street 314-436-8051 www.crowneplaza.com/stlouisdt

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch 315 Chestnut, Downtown 314-655-1234 www.stlouisarch.hyatt.com

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield 636-532-5000 www.doubletree1.hilton.com

LODGE AT GRANT’S TRAIL 4398 Hoffmeister Ave., Lemay 314-638-3340 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 1000 Eastport Plaza Drive, Collinsville 618-345-2800 www.doubletreecollinsville.com

Marriott St. Louis Airport 10700 Pear Tree Drive 314-423-9700 www.marriottstlairport.com

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 1973 CraigshireRoad, Westport 314-434-0100 www.doubletreewestport.com

MOONRISE HOTEL 6177 Delmar Blvd.

314-721-1111 www.moonrisehotel.com

DRURY INN & SUITES I-44 and Hampton Avenue 866-377-2034 www.druryhotels.com

PEAR TREE INN UNION STATION 2211 Market Street, Downtown 866-377-2024 www.druryhotels.cm

DRURY PLAZA CHESTERFIELD 355 Chesterfield Center East 866-377-2034 www.druryhotels.com

THE RITZ-CARLTON ST. LOUIS 100 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton 314-863-6300 www.ritzcarlton.com

DRURY PLAZA HOTEL-AT THE ARCH 2 South 4th Sreet, Downtown 866-377-2034 www.druryhotels.com

SEVEN GABLES INN 26 N. Meramec 314-863-8400 www.sevengablesinn.com

Four Points by Sheraton 319 Fountains Parkway Fairview Heights Il 618-622-9500 www.fourpointsstlouis.com

SHERATON ST. LOUIS CITY CENTER 400 South 14th Street 314-231-5007 www.sheratonstlouiscitycenter.com/weddings

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SAINT LOUIS 999 North Second Street, 63102 314-881-5800 www.fourseasons.com/stlouis

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

HILTON GARDEN INN 360 Regency Park, O’Fallon, IL 618-624-4499 www.stlouisofallonil.hgi.com

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

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

ALTERATIONS

It Works!

Beth Barr — 314.265.2126 www.inspiretoskinnywrap.myitworks.com LOOKS BY LISA 314-229-1964 www.looksbylisa.com

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

Mane Attraction Hair Studio Boutique & Spa 618-344-3778 www.maneattractionhairstudio.com

BACHELORETTE PARTIES/ BRIDAL SHOWERS

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

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 Horizon at Harry’s Restaurant 2144 Market, Downtown 314-421-6969 www.horizonatharrys.com The Tavern Kitchen & Bar 2961 Dougherty Ferry Rd 636-825-0600 www.tavernstl.com

BEAUTY & HEALTH BONNIE BOZE 314-440-8221 www.bonnieboze.com Breeze Blow Dry Bar 9916 Clayton Rd 314-692-2569 www.breezeblowdrybar.com Emily Miller 314.780.8247 www.emily-miller.com I Love Livy Lou Hair & Makeup 636-627-1022 www.facebook.com/ILoveLivyLou

SNS Makeup Artistry & Hair Design 2134 Graystone Drive 314-488-8999 www.snsmakeupartistry.com

BRIDAL GOWNS & SALONS BELLA BRIDESMAID 13428 Clayton Road 314-205-1191 www.bellabridesmaid.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 BUSCH STADIUM BOUTIQUE BRIDAL EVENT Sunday, February 9, 2014, 12-4:00pm Redbird Club in Busch Stadium Register at www.Cardinals.com/events

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Essential Guide WEDDING CONNECTION 2014 Sunday, January 12, 2014, 1-4:30pm Chase Park Plaza 314-588-8313 for advanced reservations www.bridestl.com Wedding Vendors Show Sunday, January 5, 2014, 12-3pm Holiday Inn, Alton, IL Free Admission

CAKES & CONFECTIONS Also see SPECIAL TOUCHES ARTISTRY ON CAKES 618-355-0000 www.artistryoncakes.com Bittersweet Artisan Truffles 314-780-6078 www.bittersweettruffles.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 www.nadozcafe.com SARAH’S CAKE SHOP 10 Clarkson Wilson Centre, Chesterfield 636-728-1140 www.sarahscakeshopstl.com

220

SUGAREE BAKING CO. 1242 Tamm Ave 314-645-5496 www.sugareebaking.com THE SWEET DIVINE 1801 S. 9th Street, Soulard 636-942-2900 www.thesweetdivine.com

CALLIGRAPHERS CALLIGRAPHICS 636-441-7225 www.calligraphics.info

CATERERS Also see REHEARSAL DINNER on page 232 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.

BUTLER’S PANTRY 314-664-7680 www.butlerspantry.com CATERING ST. LOUIS 314-961-7588 x221 www.cateringstlouis.com CES & JUDY'S CATERING 314-991-6700 www.cesandjudys.com GREGORY’S CREATIVE CUISINE 314-481-4481 www.gregoryscreativecuisine.com HOLLYBERRY CATERING 284 East Avenue 314-968-9239 www.hollyberrycatering.com LO RUSSO’S CUCINA 3121 Watson Road 314-647-6222 www.lorussos.com Lunch for the Bunch 1885 Lemen Road, O’Fallon, IL 618.344.1921 www.lunchforthebunch.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/

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PATTY LONG CATERING 1808 S. Ninth, Soulard 314-621-9598 www.pattylongcatering.com RUSSO’S GOURMET CATERING 9904 Page Avenue 314-427-6771 www.russosgroumet.com STEVEN BECKER FINE DINING 3701 Lindell Boulevard 314-367-4848 www.stevenbeckerfd.com VILLA FAROTTO 636-519-0048 www.villafarotto.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.

The Conservatory 1001 South Main Street, St. Charles 636-947-0414 www.gardenwedding.com Old PeacE Chapel at the Historic Daniel Boone Home Hwy F, Defiance 636.798.2005 Www.danielboonehome.com

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

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Essential Guide COSMOPOLITAN EVENTS 314-249-9107 www.cosmopolitanevents.com KATE & CO. 314-403-2018 www.kateandcollc.com KRISTIN ASHLEY EVENTS 618-946-0936 www.kristinashleyevents.com Lacy Branch Events 314-884-1129 618-710-0400 www.lacybranchevents.com LUCKY YOU 314-588-0073 www.luckyyoustl.com SIMCHA’S EVENTS 314-458-5463 www.simchasevents.com ST. LOUIS WEDDING CONSULTANTS 636-236-9359 www.stlweddingconsultants.net WEDDINGS BY RENEE 314-616-4600 www.stlweddingsbyrenee.com

DECORATIONS EXCLUSIVE EVENTS 13633 Lakefront Drive, Earth City 314-995-7282 www.exclusiveeventsinc.com HI HO HELIO 715 N. New Ballas Road, Creve Coeur 314-872-7711 www.hihohelio.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

DESTINATION WEDDINGS Ambassador Travel & Cruises 618-234-1046 www.4ambassadortravel.com

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Go Travel 636.458.8844 Www.gostravelstl.com TRAVEL HAUS OF ST. LOUIS 11231 Concord Village Ave., 63123 314-842-7313 www.travelhausstlouis.com

FAVORS 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 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 BELLI FIORI窶認LORAL 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

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Essential Guide Elegance in Bloom 314-651-3740 www.eleganceinbloomflorist.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 LES BOUQUETS 7905 Big Bend (Dale entrance), Webster Groves 314-395-8335 www.lesbouquets.com POPPIES DESIGN STUDIO 314-368-7760 618-281-7091 www.poppiesdesignstudio.com THE REBEL FLORIST 314.962.3232 www.therebelflorist.com R W DESIGNS 314-540-0228 www.richwestdesigns.com SISTERS FLORAL DESIGN STUDIO 314-821-0076 www.sistersflowers.net SCHNUCKS FLORIST & GIFTS 9220 Shortline Drive 314-997-2444 www.schnucks.com/floral the singing florist 314-372-9340 www.singingflorist.biz WILDFLOWERS 1013 Ohio, St. Louis 314-772-9900 www.wildflowersstl.com

FORMALWEAR Also see BRIDAL GOWNS & SALONS SAVILE ROW 8101 Maryland Ave., Clayton 314-567-8500 www.savilerowstl.com SAVVI FORMALWEAR See locations below. www.savviwedding.com Galleria, 314-727-0088 South County, 314-894-2991 Mid Rivers Mall, 636-970-2281 Jamestown Mall, 314-355-4440 St. Clair Square, 618-632-8415 Alton Square, 618-465-1110

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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 Clair De Lune 9727 Clayton Road 314-993-3232 www.clairdelunelingerie.com

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 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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Essential Guide M. HALEY DESIGN 314-308-4743 www.mhaleydesign.com MELANIE’S 10277 Clayton Road, Ladue 314-993-0664 www.welanies-stlouis.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

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 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

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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 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.millennium-productions.com

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

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT Clarion Brass 7250 Orchard Ave. 314-862-0049 www.clarionbrass.org COMPLETE MUSIC DISC JOCKEY SERVICE 314-991-5656 www.cmusic.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 MANHASSET STRINGS 636-537-0405 www.manhassetstrings.com MEGAN HAWKINS HARPIST 314-529-1854 www.meganhawkins.org MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood 314-918-9335 www.millennium-productions.com

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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 ROCK STAR DJ’S 314-518-2407 www.rockstardjstl.com The Rosewood Ensemble 847 Carman Oaks Ct. 314-609-0702 www.rosewood-ensemble.com SLAM 314-452-2848 www.slamstl.com the singing florist 314-372-9340 www.singingflorist.biz 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

ONLINE PLANNING Bridal Elite www.bridalelite.com SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE www.bridestl.com THE BOULEVARD www.theboulevard.com

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Essential Guide PHOTOBOOTHS CAPTURE POD 618-580-6536 www.capturepodstl.com FISH EYE FUN 314-621-8638 www.fisheyefun.com 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 Always N Forever Photography 618-334-5160 www.alwaysnforeverphotography.net Connor Photography 101 East Main Street 618-570-0323 www.conner-photography.com George Street Photo & Video 866-831-4103 www.georgestreetphoto.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 KURTIS HALL PHOTOGRAPHER 314-323-0811 www.kurtishall.com L PHOTOGRAPHIE 314-265-3786 www.lphotographie.com

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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 Sweet Monday Photography 323.634.2847 www.sweetmondayphotography.com VON DE VORE PHOTOGRAPHY 314-922-1612 www.vondevorephoto.com WHITE KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY 314.471.8027 www.whiteklumpphotography.com Your Story Photoart 314.603.7814 www.ysstudios.com ZETTL PHOTOGRAPHY LTD. 314-454-6612 www.zettlphoto.com

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

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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Essential Guide 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 Jamestown, 314-741-4224 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.

BALABAN’S 1772 Clarkson Rd., Chesterfield 636-449-6700 www.balabanswine.com BIXBY’S AT THE MISSOURI HISTORY MUSEUM Forest Park 314-454-3151 www.butlerspantry.com BOATHOUSE – FOREST PARK 6101 Government Drive 314-367-2224 www.boathouseforestpark.com BRADSHAW ROOM 3701 Lindell 314-367-4848 www.thecoronado.com BRISTOL SEAFOOD 11801 Olive Blvd.

314-567-0272 www.bristolseafoodgrill.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

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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 CHARLIE GITTO’S AT HOLLYWOOD CASINO 777 Casino Center Drive 314-770-7663 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 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 GATEWAY ARCH RIVERBOATS 314-923-3047 www.gatewayarch.com Gian Tony’s 5356 Daggett Ave, 63110 314.772.4893 www.gian-tonys.com GUIDO’S 5046 Shaw Ave., The Hill 314-771-4900 www.guidosstl.com Hodaks 2100 Gravois Ave. 314-776-7292 www.hodaks.com

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Essential Guide HOLIDAY INN ROUTE 66 10709 Watson Road 314-821-6600 www.holidayinn.com HORIZON AT HARRY’S 2144 Market Street 314-421-6969 www.horizonatharrys.com J. GILBERT’S 17 West County Center 314-965-4600 www.jgilberts.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 Llywelyn’s Pub Mulitple Saint Louis Area Locations 1.855.BCELTIC www.llywelynspub.com Lockhaven Golf Club 10872 Lawrence Keller Drive Godfrey 618-466-2441 www.lockhavengolfclub.com THE LODGE AT GRANT’S TRAIL

BY ORLANDOS 4398 Hoffmeister 314-638-3340 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com LO RUSSO’S CUCINA 3121 Watson Rd. 314-647-6222 www.lorussos.com LUCAS PARK GRILLE & MARKET 1234 Washington Avenue, 63103 314-241-7770 www.lucasparkgrille.com McCormick & Schmick’s 17 West County Center 314-909-0250 www.mccormickandschmicks.com NATIONAL SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF THE SNOWS 442 S. Demazendo Dr., Belleville 618-397-6700 / 314-241-3400 www.snows.org

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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 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 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 SqWires 1415 South 18th Street 314-865-3522 www.sqwires.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 The Tavern Kitchen & Bar 636-825-0600 www.tavernstl.com Upstairs at the Cheshire 6300 Clayton Road 314-932-7818 www.upstairs-stl.com VILLA FAROTTO 636-519-0048 www.villafarotto.com VINO NADOZ WINE BAR & CAFÉ 16 The Boulevard 314-726-0400 www.vinonadozwinebar.com

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Essential Guide Zia’s – on the hill 5256 Wilson Ave. 314.776.0020 www.zias.com

RENTALS 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 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 VINTAGE FOR THE DAY 314-502-5219 www.vintagefortheday.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

TRANSPORTATION All About You Limos 618.281.2200 www.aaylimos.com BEST TRANSPORTATION 8531 Page Avenue, Suite 160 314-989-1500 www.besttransporation.com Mid-American Coaches 866.944.8687 Www.mid-americancoaches.net Presedential Limousines 636.451.3600 Www.prezlimos.com

VIDEOGRAPHERS COMPLETE VIDEO 11224 Olive Blvd.

314-991-5656 www.cmusic.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.millennium-productions.com THE PERFECT IMAGE OF ST. LOUIS 314-662-4862 www.theperfectimageofstlouis.com/weddings SkyGuy Media 314-699-4759 www.skyguymedia.com TJ's Video Café 618.407.9247 Www.tjsvideocafe.com WESTVIEW MEDIA 149 N. Meramec, Clayton 314-726-6222 www.westviewmedia.com

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Style

That Perfect Something

Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

— A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION —

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Style

That Perfect Something

Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

— A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION —

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Rehearsals, Brunches & Showers A Special Advertising Section Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

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Rehearsals, Brunches & Showers A Special Advertising Section Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

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Rehearsals, Brunches & Showers A Special Advertising Section Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

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Marketplace beauty & health SNS Makeup Artistry and Hair Design We offer professional hair and makeup services for the bride and bridal party and will travel to you!

We also offer flawless airbrush makeup and henna tattoo services. Mention this ad and receive one free trial. www.snsmakeupartistry.com 314.488.8999

Caterers & rehearsal dinner 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

consultants/designers/planners Lucky You Productions Don’t go it alone! Lucky You Productions can help!

With more than 17 years experience in event and wedding planning, we can accommodate full or partial wedding planning, day of coordination and/ or wedding design. Every wedding should be extraordinary. Therefore, you can mix and match our services to fit your needs. Consultations by Appointment Only. www.luckyyoustl.com 314-210-7764 Weddings By Renee Wedding Design, Planning, and Day-of Coordination Services. An experienced wedding planner is the best gift you’ll ever give yourself.

Share your wedding dreams with us and together we will create an unforgettable celebration for you and your guests. You’ll relax and enjoy your wedding day with family and friends, while we handle all the details. Expert Advice. Innovative Design. Flawless Execution. Call us for a complimentary consultation today. www.stlweddingsbyrenee.com facebook.com/WeddingsByReneeSTL 314-616-4600

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 314-892-032a9 Megan Hawkins Harpist Imagine the elegant sounds of the harp as you walk down the aisle. Specializing in harp, sound, and DJ services for your big day. www.meganhawkins.org 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 Steel Drum Flavor Caribbean Island Music Caribbean steel drum music will provide you with that unique, island flair for your destination wedding. www.steeldrumflavor.com 2811 Laclede Station Rd Apt K St Louis, Mo, 63143 314-485-9541 TKO DJs Over 30 years in business.

Every TKO wedding reception is custom-tailored to each couple’s wishes.Visit our website: www.tko-djs.com; 314-647-3000

OFFICIATES All Couples Married.

We perform your ceremony your way, any­­where.

Our non-denominational ­clergy/officiates work with you to create the ceremony you want.

314-781-0444 allcouplesmarried.com

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

PHOTOGRAPHY Conner Photography Artistic. Relational. Documentary.

You need photos that are set apart and mind-blowing. 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

Von DeVore Photography Modern Photography for the Stylish Bride.

Elegant. Stylish. Happy. www.vondevorephoto.com 314.922.1612

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

Transportation 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 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 complimentary 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 Under new ownership! Specializing in weddings, bachelorette/bachelor parties and special events.

Ride in style in our stretch Camaro, SUV limos or party buses! www.prezlimos.com www.facebook.com/prezlimos 636.451.3600

travel GO TRAVEL 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 help “YOU” find your Dream Honeymoon!

Don’t Go Without…GO TRAVEL! www.GoTravelStl.com 636-458-8844 Susan@GoTravel.com

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 The Perfect Image of St. Louis Cherish your special day forever with a creative and professional video. Package options for all budgets! theperfectimageofstlouis.com/weddings 5014 Grace Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 314.662.4862

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unveiled!

catching up with the insiders who make St. Louis weddings work

Haue Valley Grand Opening July 25, 2013

St. Louis BRIDE HOLIDAY LUNCH & FOOD DRIVE St. Louis Zoo December 10, 2013

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(Poppies Design Studio) ©Ten Sixteen Photography; (stl bride launch party) ©l photographie

pOPPIES DESIGN STUDIO Grand Opening November 7, 2013

SAINT LOUIS BRIDE SPRING/SUMMER LAUNCH PARTY Upstairs at the Cheshire July 9, 2013

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