Prior to my arrival in Victoria, I had never before written for or edited a bridal publication. The opportunity simply never presented itself.
And, I must admit, I was a bit apprehensive when I discovered that I would have to oversee the production of The Advocate’s annual bridal and quince magazine. I had no idea of what to expect or how the magazine would come to fruition, and it became a daunting task in my mind.
The project involved many tasks I was not familiar with, and I wondered how it would be accomplished. After much prayer, God showed me the way, and things began to get easier—even much more so with the help of my capable staff.
And here, you see the finished project. I hope you enjoy it.
One of the biggest hurdles to overcome was the hiring of a photographer. After some initial hurdles, my staff writer, Madison, directed me toward an individual who was a “friend of a friend.” Hiring local photographer Carleigh Lienemann turned out to be the best decision I could have ever made.
Not only did Carleigh take the best photos we could have hoped for, she went above and beyond in helping make all of the stars align for our photo shoot day at Svetlik Farms in Schulenburg. She brought with her not only her expertise, but the models we needed as well as the hair and makeup artists to make the young ladies—and one young man—look like a million bucks. Carleigh indeed was a blessing, and it all came together with her invaluable help.
If you’re ever looking for a professional whose photography skills are incredible, choose Carleigh. You won’t regret it. And check out the story I did on her for this publication.
But, I have many more people to thank. I’m grateful to the Bridal Rail for providing the dresses and tuxedo for the models for the shoot. Janine from the Bridal Rail came to the shoot and her help, too, was invaluable.
I’d like to thank the owners of Jade & Madalynn, especially Erica, for providing a beautiful quince dress. The cover shot turned out to be exquisite.
Thank you to the models, Bailey Cisneros, Grant Gray, Maddie Mikus, Danielle Jenkins and Kaitlin Eckhardt for their time and effort. I’d like to thank the hair and makeup artists as well for helping to make the photo shoot a success. It is very much appreciated.
Last but certainly not least I would like to thank the owners of Svetlik Farms in Schulenburg for lending their beautiful venue to our photo shoot. If you’re getting married soon, please consider this venue. It will be a memory to last a lifetime.
Again, I hope you enjoy this publication as much as I enjoyed overseeing its production. Our staff worked hard to make it a success.
Once Carleigh Lienemann found her groove, this wedding photographer flourished.
Make personal choices with your wedding dessert
Svetlik Farms: One roof and infinite memories 16 FASHION
Moulton business becomes the go-to store for prospective brides
20 OUTDOOR
Planning an outdoor wedding takes an extra special touch
22
CULTURE: MUSIC
A DJ or Live Band? Either way could be a win-win for a reception
24
CULTURE: TRENDS
Traditional tuxedos take a back seat to modern trends
26
CULTURE: TRADITIONS
Younger generation trends away from past wedding customs
28
CULTURE: TRADITIONS
Quinceañera marks special time in young woman’s maturity
31
CONNECT 361
Discover more with the business directory from the Crossroads.
Photo by Carleigh Lienemann; dress provided by the Bridal Rail
Expo gives local nonprofit a philanthropic opportunity Gala Event
STORY BY SHAWN A. AKERS | SAKERS@VICAD.COM
In 2021, Tina Fuentez attended a bridal showcase in Victoria. It was an event she took to heart, so much so that she felt like she should be the one to host it going forward.
While she had the best of intentions, Fuentez discovered that, after speaking with her husband, John, her time was limited. The Fuentez family owns Sweet Fountainz Bakery in Victoria, a lucrative business on John Stockbauer Drive, and running it is time consuming.
“When John and I talked, he kept telling me ‘no’ and kept saying that we
had too much on our plate,” Fuentez said.
But she wouldn’t give up, and finally convinced her husband to help her fulfill her dream. She then made a phone call to an old friend, Cynthia Nelms, who had recently decorated her daughter’s quinceañera celebration.
“I told her (Nelms) that I have this on my heart. I think I want to throw a bridal and quince expo,” Fuentez said. “She was like, ‘I’m in.’ It didn’t take much to convince her.”
The result was the formation of a non-profit organization called NF Promotions. The founder of Ravishing Designs by CAN, Nelms was an “old pro” at event coordinating in The Crossroads. It was only natural for her to collaborate with Fuentez to host the annual Bridal and Quince Expo.
“I’ve done event coordinating for many, many years, so this was not a new realm for me,” Nelms said. “With my company, Ravishing Designs, people hire me to do their weddings and other events. It’s been my background for years so when Tina called me, I was like, ‘Oh, that’s easy. Yes, of course I’ll do it.’ We hosted the first one two years ago
and it took off.”
The 2025 Victoria Bridal and Quince Expo is set for Sunday, Jan. 19, from Noon until 4 p.m., at the Victoria Community Center.
Prior to their first effort in 2023, Nelms said she and Fuentez were hoping that 100 people would show up for the event. They both were in for a huge surprise.
“It was amazing. We saw people lining up and we thought, ‘Oh my God,” Nelms said. “We sold 2,500 tickets and, the crazy thing is, nobody even knew what NF Promotions was or what we stood for. So, this is our story. We’re in it to help the community and for helping small businesses grow at the same time. NF Promotions became a thing and now we’re doing scholarships, too. We’re helping other vendors, and we’re helping vendors connect with clients. There isn’t a single person that leaves our event that does not have a booking. That tells you that this is working.”
After their first Bridal and Quince Expo, Fuentez and Nelms wondered what they could do differently to make the event even more special.
“We talked about it and asked the
question, what can we do to give back to the community,” Fuentez said. “That’s when we decided to, with our husbands, create the company and give back trade scholarships to local students. There are so many kids that can apply for scholarships for all kinds of degrees, but I wanted to do something different for those going to trade school. If someone wants to learn how to decorate a cake or take a photography class, or even become a plumber, this format gives that person an opportunity to apply for that type of scholarship with no restrictions.”
Fuentez and Nelms used their own money in 2023 to host the first event. Now, some of the revenue generated from the Bridal and Quince Expo goes to scholarships for local students. Tickets to the event are $8 if purchased online prior to the event or $10 at the door.
For 2025, Nelms and Fuentez are introducing a new twist to the event. They are also raising money for what they call “holiday flight scholarships.” Local college students, whether they be students at the University of HoustonVictoria or Victoria College, will be able to apply to NF Promotions for a scholarship for a round-trip ticket to return home for the holidays. Nelms and Fuentez have learned there are students in local colleges who don’t have enough money to visit their families during the holidays.
“When you are blessed, you bless others,” Fuentez said.
As for the Bridal and Quince Expo itself, the event has become an opportunity for local vendors to display their businesses to prospective brides, grooms and their families and, as NF Promotions’ Facebook says, “a perfect place to discover the latest trends, connect with top vendors and turn your dreams into reality.” From stunning gowns to enchanting décor, “you’ll find everything you need under one roof.”
Nelms says the Bridal and Quince Expo is NF Promotions’ biggest event of the year. Their families—husbands and children—are involved with ticket sales, modeling, working the doors, etc. They both said the event would be impossible to execute without family members.
Nelms and Furentez are both hoping it continues to grow so that they can continue to give back to the community in Victoria.
“We’ve been blessed with volunteers and sponsors the last three years,” Nelms said. “It has become a gamechanger for so many people. We love putting this event on. It’s a joy.”
YSnapshot A Career
Once she found her groove, this wedding photographer flourished
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWN A. AKERS | SAKERS@VICAD.COM
ears ago, Carleigh Lienemann told herself multiple times that she didn’t want to be a wedding photographer. The aggravation that came with her ambition to shoot weddings simply didn’t seem worth it. Over time, however, the Cuero High School graduate began to get the hang of the business. As she began to figure out the tricks of the trade, Lienemann’s passion for photography continued to grow until it ultimately became her life’s work.
She now makes a comfortable living at it, and not just in The Crossroads. Not only does she travel throughout the country to service her clients, but she also is beginning to develop a clientele abroad and is living a dream doing exactly what she feels she was born to do.
“It’s incredible how much my business has grown. Getting to travel is one of
the best parts,” Lienemann said. “It’s been a huge learning experience for me and, as I continued to learn what to do and what not to do, things just got better and better over the years. It’s amazing that I get to do what I love to do and support myself in the process. It’s a great profession, for sure.” It didn’t start out that way, however. Lienemann, 27, took up photography prior to entering high school and began to take it seriously while shooting photos of her friends. As she began to develop the skills, she wondered if she had what it took to pursue photography on a full-time basis.
At 19, she was asked to do her first wedding for a family friend and, unfortunately, she labeled it as a “disaster.”
“I quickly discovered that it was a lot of work, and that I had no idea of what I was really doing,” Lienemann said. “I was young, and I did it super cheap. I thought to myself, ‘Do you really want to do this?’ You are on your feet from sun up to sun down, and you don’t stop. You have to really get used to how demanding it is and how long the day is. But, I got through that day and
it wasn’t all bad. The more I did it, it was like, ‘yes, I love this.”
Eventually, Lienemann began to develop a smooth routine with her photo shoots, She also discovered the ins and outs of the financial end of the business, which she said was a huge learning curve.
“Now that I have a bigger variety of things I do, I make a timeline and things go much more smoothly,” Lienemann said. “I make a shot list and I really just try to make sure that I have everything lined up so things go smoothly. I meet with the couple a few times beforehand so I know what the bride, the groom and their families want. The bride doesn’t need to worry about all that stuff on her wedding day, so I try to put her mind at ease and let her enjoy her day.”
Lienemann specializes in engagements and weddings—including destination weddings and intimate ceremonies. But she also shoots individual and family portraits, maternity and newborn sessions and conducts private boudoir photoshoots.
On her website, carleighraephotography.com, she describes her photography style as “warm, authentic, candid and lively.”
“If you’re looking for a ‘hype girl’
Photo courtesy of Carleigh Lienemann
during your session—that’s me,” her website says. “I know how awkward it can feel to be in front of a camera, so my goal is to make you feel as comfortable as possible.”
Lienemann has worked as a full-time photographer for four years, and most of the clientele she has collected during that time has come by word of mouth and through social media. Recommendations from her clients has allowed her to travel throughout the state of Texas and to Oregon, Arizona and Nevada to shoot weddings. She has also traveled to Mexico, including Cancun, to perform her photographic magic.
“I’ve been all over,” Lienemann said. “It’s been so much fun and the places I’ve been are so beautiful. I’m amazed every time I go to someplace new.”
In 2023, she worked 25 weddings and figures it will be about the same before the end of 2024.
Lienemann fulfilled one of her lifelong dreams by shooting for this publication, The Victoria Advocate’s annual bridal magazine. Lienemann worked with the newspaper’s editors to coordinate this year’s photo shoot at Svetlik Farms in Schulenberg.
“That’s how you build business relationships,” she said. “When you start
doing that, things can really take off for you. I was ecstatic to be chosen to shoot for this magazine.
The tables will turn on Lienemann on Jan. 9, 2026, when she walks down the aisle herself with her fiance, Jake. Although she is wedding savvy, it will, of course, be a much different experience for her to work with another photographer that day. She has already chosen one, Alecca Synclair from Houston. “It will be a change, for sure,” Lienemann said. “But since I know what that person will be going through, it will be easy to work with them. I can’t wait.”
LET THEM Eat Cake
Make personal choices with your wedding dessert
STORY BY CHRISTOPHER GREEN | CGREEN@VICAD.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED TO DISCOVER
Awedding cake is more than a dessert; it’s a symbol, a centerpiece, and often one of the most photographed elements of a couple’s big day.
From intricate frosting designs to carefully curated dessert tables, today’s wedding planners embrace a sweeter focus on creative, personalized treats that leave a lasting impression. The art of wedding desserts has evolved significantly, blending classic traditions with modern twists that make each celebration as unique as the couple themselves.
For many decades wedding couples have chosen the traditional style of wedding cake. A layered cake with smooth flowing icing that become part of an elaborate piping system stacked layers high. However, today many couples are choosing more modern options like the naked cake, which features minimal frosting that reveals layers beneath.
Tina Fuentez, owner of Sweet Fountainz Bakery in Victoria, said naked cakes have become popular for many wedding couples in The Crossroads area. Another popular trend, Fuentez said, for wedding desserts is the dummy cake. This type of cake is designed to look like a traditional wedding cake but consists of carefully decorated
foam layers, with only one real slice for the ceremonial cake cutting.
Meanwhile, guests enjoy pre-cut sheet cake served from the kitchen. This trend is practical, affordable and allows couples to make a big statement.
“Brides are getting our 200 serving sheet cakes and having them pre-cut to hand out to their guests,” she said.
Customization is the heart of modern wedding desserts, and it starts with the cake-tasting process. When couples visit a bakery like Sweet Fountainz, they’re not only sampling cake flavors–they’re choosing colors, shapes, sizes, and decorations to make their cake a true reflection of their personalities and tastes
“The bride or the wedding planner will contact us ahead of time and schedule a cake testing to let us know what kind of flavors the bride or groom are interested in,” Fuentez said. “We’ll go over serving, size, flavor, decorations and those kinds of things.We’ll then help them decide if they want any additional desserts or if they want our chocolate fountain that we offer here as well.”
Choosing a wedding cake or dessert menu can feel daunting, but most bakers offer guidance to make the process enjoyable and stress-free. Fuentez advises couples to prioritize their personal tastes and not to worry too much about current trends.
“The advice I have is to pick what you want because it’s your wedding day,” she said. “I have brides that will come in with ideas from their friends but then it turns out they don’t really like it. So we tell the brides when they come in to make sure it’s something they really like.”
As couples continue to personalize every aspect of their wedding, the dessert options have expanded, leaving no shortage of inspiration to make each celebration unique and memorable. From towering cakes to dessert bars brimming with treats, the world of wedding desserts is as boundless as the love it celebrates. Whether a couple opts for a grand cake or a cozy dessert bar, the sweetest ending is always a reflection of the sweetness of their union.
Svetlik Farm
The most important part of planning any special occasion is finding and providing a place for the event–in particular, weddings. Brides and families hope for more than just a concrete slab and pretty lights.
Svetlik Farm, a family-owned farm-turned-destination venue in Schulenburg, has the rustic, cozy atmosphere to accommodate any wedding. It comes with a small-town generational history that will put a unique spin to any special event.
“Grandpa and Grandma Svetlik lived off the land, raising cows, chickens, pigs, and turkeys,” Debbie Strickland, the co-owner and Svetlik matriarch, said. “The field adjacent to the once lived-in farmhouse, now a bridal suite, boasted a three-acre private garden, which fed the family. When there was a surplus, locals came to pick for their own tables. The back pastures were used for cash crops, which the family worked together.”
The farm grounds and house date back 70 years and have supported the Svetlik family via a fully-functioning farm with pigs, cows, chickens, and goats. The family decided unanimously to convert the farm into a business, “to share this special place with newly married couples and their families, so they too, can have memories that they will cherish for a lifetime.”
Hosts and bridal parties can experience wonderful memories once they reserve this incredible venue.
The farm is located just down the road from a beautiful St. Mary’s Catholic Church in rural Fayette County. It boasts over 100 acres of pristine, rustic landscape for many special occasions. The property also houses a spacious barn, bridal suite, and groom silo. The farm has plans to expand both with a fire pit and back patio addition for that added touch of resort-style experience.
“Many of the descendants of the Svetlik family, including the three owners, and some of their children have been married there,” said Erica Strickland, daughter-in-law to co-owner Debbie Strickland. “Our main goal was to preserve the barn as a remembrance to our grandparents. We thought it would be special for our family and the couples who marry here to have the same loving memories that we have had for many years to come.”
In addition to providing an excellent
venue for new couples wishing to start new lives together with the help of beloved friends and family, Svetlik Farm also owns and operates the local flower shop, The Flower Box, in Schulenburg, serves as the go-to floral shop for any who reserve with the Farm.
“Our mother, Delores Wick, is the main florist and has a gift for creating beautiful arrangements,” Strickland said of The Flower Box. “She is still working full-time at the age of 84.”
Dedication, love and a passion to give patrons the best possible experience to the start their marriages is what the family strives for when offering this cozy wedding venue.
“We are not only there for our customers’ happiest memories,” Strickland said. “We also support them through difficult times, as we are typically the main provider of floral arrangements for local funerals. Oftentimes, these funerals are held by families we know personally, and we feel privileged to be a part of honoring the life of their loved ones.”
Not only does the family honor past loved ones, but they also honor their legacy by maintaining a close association with all of the happenings on the farm. Delores Wick, the aforementioned florist, was born to Svetlik by Willie and Louise Svetlik and grew up on the property along with her sisters and brother. After her marriage to Erwin Wick, the couple had three daughters, who are now the co-owners of the venue.
“We are all very much involved in the business,” Strickland said. “We take ‘family-owned’ to the next level. Almost all of our family has been or is involved on a regular basis.”
From the daily upkeep to building the furniture that adorns the barn floor to the decorations and cleaning, and even the electrical work–everything is done by a member of the family. “We take pride in everything that we do, and truly care about our clients as if they are an extension of the family,” Strickland said.
The process for reserving a special day or weekend at the Svetlik Farm is as easy as going online to its website or by calling and receiving a consultation. There are two types of packages to purchase–Wedding Day and Wedding Weekend. Each of these packages include access and utilization of the venue grounds, including all
tables, chairs, caterer’s kitchen and the suites for both bride and groom. The Weekend package extends this to twonight stays within the suites.
“We are happy to discuss client needs to accommodate any additional add-ons or adjustments,” Strickland said. “However, we do not provide wedding planning or orchestration services. Additional vendors are booked independently by the client, but we can recommend and offer a vendor list of reputable companies that have been used at our venue.”
With a rich history dating back 70 years that provides a beautiful backdrop to any wedding, including packages to make the most special night of any couple’s life magical, Svetlik Farm offers more than the rustic tranquility
of borrowed farm life. The venue the Svetlik family offers gives clients the peace of mind that comes with knowing the down-home southern roots are wellestablished and curated from the home nourished over half a century.
“What better way to honor our beloved family, then to have an abundance of love and celebration under one roof for years to come?” the venue’s website reads. “We are dedicated to providing our clients with a seamless, flexible and enjoyable wedding planning experience. We strive to make booking your wedding venue the least stressful part of your planning. We hope that Svetlik Farm becomes a special part of your family’s story, as it has been for us.”
Thepropert yalsoincludes auniquesilobar,coveredoutdoorpatio,and tworental properties -commonlyusedasa bridalsuite anda grooms'silo.
Svetlik Farmis well-known fortheirWedding Weekend Package, whichallowstheir clientsto rent theproper ty from Fri-Sun,makingitstress-free forbrides&their planning teams.Pleaseemail info@svetlikfarm.com formoreinformation.
FASHION
DREAMS Dress of their
Moulton business becomes the go-to store for prospective brides
STORY BY MADISON O’HARA | MOHARA@VICAD.COM
At the heart of a small town in Lavaca County, out in the middle of nowhere, a bridal store sits. While situated in a town with a population of 900 people, Moulton, this store has become the go-to destination for weddings thanks to its southern hospitality and 40-year history.
Once word got out that Moulton was the place to go for bridal wear, brides came from across the country to try and find the ‘one’ at the Bridal Rail.
When Janine Smajstrla started working at the Bridal Rail, she never imagined that a decade later she would become the owner. After graduating college, she started working at the bridal wear store in 2015 with hopes of one day being a wedding planner. But as the years went by and she continued to work at the store, previous owners offered her the business when they decided to retire. At 27, Smajstrla took over the store in 2022, helping women find the dress of their dreams.
“I grew up chasing cows and baling hay. I was never a girly-girl,” Smajstrla said.
Even now, when she’s not at the shop, Smajstrla is taking care of cattle on her family’s land. Many women in her community know the very same life. They’re hard-working Southern women
who tend to fields and cattle day and night, work as teachers and flight attendants, and sit in deer blinds early on Saturday mornings.
But when they come into the Bridal Rail with their mothers and sisters, it’s all about finding what will make them be their most authentic selves on their wedding day.
“Everyday is a surprise; every wedding is different,” Smajstrla said.
To help make every bride have their own one-of-a-kind wedding dress, the Bridal Rail provides brides a way to customize their dresses. Inhouse seamstress Amber Carter is a
bit like a fairy godmother for brides, adding sleeves, adding lace and even modernizing mom’s old wedding dress.
“Customized garters are actually really popular,” Smajstrla said. “Most people think brides are moving away from the garter tossing tradition, but we have brides wanting to make camo garters. One bride wanted a University of Texas’ Longhorn-themed garter just to poke fun at her Aggie groom.”
As one of the oldest bridal wear stores in Texas and one of the last remaining full-service bridal stores, Smajstrla and her team do everything in their power to make both brides and grooms feel special.
“We see them for more than just one day,” Smajstrla said. “Not only just for fittings and alterations, but also for tuxes for the groomsmen, dresses for bridesmaids, mother of the bride and even attire for the flower girl. That’s what full service means; we cater to everyone in the wedding party, not just the bride.”
These days, grooms are stepping out and turning to more unique suits than just a plain black tux. White dinner jackets and even maroon or forest green suits are on the rise, with grooms embracing colorful and fun. While men are leaning towards newer styles, brides are stepping back in time and are looking for timeless and traditional dresses.
“Now, 1990s and 2000s styles are really trending, from big bows and poofy shoulders. Pearls are popular and long Cathedral-length veils are back in style,” Smajstrla said.
Grooms aren’t the only ones adding splashes of color to their wedding looks. Brides come in looking for purple dresses and ways to add pops of color, like dyed lace, to their dresses. On the rise, however, are black wedding dresses.
CONTENT SPONSORED BY
Photo by Carleigh Lienemann; dress provided by the Bridal Rail
“We started to carry a black wedding dress for brides to try on to see if they like that look. Some of our dresses we can order in different colors,” Smajstrla said.
The Bridal Rail offers big city designers like Morilee, Allure, Casablanca and Sincerity by Justin Alexander at small-town affordable prices. But what really sets the store apart from the others is the experience they offer to brides.
“It’s a personal experience for bridal parties and it’s a sentimental day. We hear their love stories; we laugh and we cry with them,” Smajstrla said.
One popular story that is heard is “my mom got her wedding dress here.” For Smajstrla, it speaks to the longevity and unwavering hospitality of her store that decades later. Daughters are returning for the same magical experience their mothers had before them.
Now 29 and the owner of the Bridal Rail, Smajstrla strives to make every bride feel special on their big day; just not in the way she had originally planned. She hopes to keep the store open for another four decades, ensuring that the brides she helps today will return with their daughters for their wedding day.
Janine Smajstrla, owner The Bridal Rail
Photo by Carleigh Lienemann; dress provided by the Bridal Rail
OUTDOORS
SAYING ‘I DO’ AL FRESCO
Planning an outdoor wedding takes an extra special touch
STORY BY ASHLEY RAMBO | ARAMBO@VICAD.COM PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED TO DISCOVER
They say every girl dreams of planning her own wedding. For years, many young women think of themes, colors, and minute details for their special day.
Making one decision leads to three more questions, then each of those to even more decisions. Will it be a big ceremony or something small and intimate? Will it be a local wedding or an-out-of-towner, or maybe even a destination wedding?
One of the very first decisions to make after an engagement should be simple: Will it be indoors outdoors? While many couples look for indoor venues such as their favorite church, or an elegant ballroom, in the past few years, up to 62% of couples have opted for outdoor weddings over indoor ceremonies as of 2021 according to weddingpro.com.
Outdoor weddings can offer many benefits, both pragmatic and aesthetic.
Mother Nature is Your Decorator
Speaking logically, an outdoor ceremony makes for more room for more guests. Instead of stressing how to fit a dozen tables with 10 places in one dance hall while still having rows
of chairs, food tables, and of course, the aisle and altar, there is literally more room to breathe with an outdoor venue..
Outdoor weddings are better suited for accommodating a larger crowd without squeezing in shoulder-toshoulder. North of Victoria, Tin Spur Ranch, owned by Angie and TJ Stafford, proudly offers up their rustic, countrythemed venue. The owners say they’ve had ceremonies with up to 150 people comfortably in attendance.
Also, the outside provides natural decoration for the wedding. With it comes the beauty of nature, whether on a beach with ocean waves and sparkling sands or amongst the rustic trees and wide-open blue skies. The draw of an outdoor setting is using minimal décor, but the opportunity to have breathtaking surroundings.
A simple rustic theme is widely considered one of the most popular wedding themes. For Texans, it creates a familiar, homey ambiance. Angie Stafford says couples are drawn to their venue because it’s “surrounded by nature, with a pond area, and just a scenic place.” Tin Spur Ranch is off
the highway, without any clumps of houses nearby, ensuring your special event is free of unwanted background noise. “It’s just country,” Stafford said, emphasizing the common love of the familiar down-home theme.
Rustic is versatile on any part of the casual-to-fancy event spectrum. Not only are you using the outdoors for your backdrop, but most rustic and outdoor weddings cost less for flowers because they become only accents instead of the main part of centerpieces.
Instead, rustic and outdoor weddings are more likely to use natural materials like wood, stones, and pottery. Some accent pieces can even come from just “down the road,” like a rusty red tractor surrounded by wildflowers, or wooden items from barrels and recycled pallets to tree logs serving as stands or sliced thin for placemats. You will spend less money and the work will be less extensive while still getting the unique special day you want.
Mother Nature Can Be Fickle and Ruthless
Depending on the location and time of year, couples should consider temperature. In South Texas especially the heat and humidity can prove harsh at certain times of the year. An outdoor event will also require paying attention to the time of day. Hosts must be
considerate of the heat or cold before, during and after the ceremony. Bugs and other natural inconveniences can also be an issue.. A location with a gravel parking lot and soft, grassy grounds can be difficult for ladies wearing heels. Victoria is notorious for its onslaught of mosquitos. No one wants to think about all the bugs outside, but hosts should prepare and remind guests of those possibilities.
Couples should also have contingency plans in the event of bad weather. Fickle weather can be rain, hail, or snow or heavy winds. Be ready to check weather reports and take the necessary precautions. Double check with the venue owner and have a plan set in place if Mother Nature isn’t on your side on your day.
But When Mother Nature is Good, She’s Great
The main draw of outdoor weddings, however, is the aesthetic value. It may be a minimal effort to decorate, but warm afternoon light provides great lighting to make great photos. With the landscape as backdrop, your wedding photos will stand out and showcase your own style and personality.
Back to the rustic theme, one
suggestion a vintage barn in a wide field of yellow-green grass, or the majestic, gnarled branches of a great oak or cedar tree with the sun gleaming in through the leaves. Or, the perfect angle can present itself with an expanse of deep sky blue and the distance horizon.
Even if you’re not out in the secluded country, outdoor venues can have locations that make for great photos, too. Lines of trees down a park path, historic houses, stone steps or vinecovered buildings are also pleasant options.
Ultimately, whether to have an indoor or outdoor wedding is the bride and groom’s decision, But, outdoor weddings have plenty of appeal for nature lovers of all kinds. The outside has endless opportunities for the perfect photo with natural, comforting backdrops.
In the wake of 2020, it seems that the world is growing to appreciate outdoor events, where you have space and fresh air. Consider your guests and the weather, how the outdoor event can reflect what you want and the theme that will best meld with the surroundings.
CULTURE
A DJ OR LIVE BAND?
Either way could be a win-win for a reception
STORY BY CHRISTOPHER GREEN | CGREEN@VICAD.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED BY THE LOVE AND HAPPINESS BAND
Weddings signify what is supposed to be one of the most happy and exciting times in a person’s life. There is, of course, a lot of planning that goes into a wedding.
From food preparation, invitations, selecting a day and finding the right dress or tuxedo to wear, there is no shortage of tasks that go into the planning process. One of the most important aspects of a wedding is the music that breathes life into the atmosphere of the reception and gives wedding goers the chance to express their feelings through dance and music. The choice between a live wedding band and a DJ is often on the minds of many brides and grooms to be in the early planning stages.
A wedding DJ and a live band both have their benefits. It’s really up to the bride and groom to choose their preference. However, people may be surprised to learn what is involved
for the DJ to perform at weddings, quinceañeras and other events. DJ Jeff, from Victoria, has spent years working as a DJ and said there is more than meets the eye when it comes to his craft.
“A lot of it is just about helping the event transition smoothly,” DJ Jeff said. “It's also our job to get people on the dance floor and encourage them and get them out there and dance and have a good time.”
The role of a wedding DJ is often more than just playing music, he said.
“It's more about helping the people feel like they're in charge and their events are going to be taken care of,” he said. “You would be amazed about the stuff that a DJ does behind the scenes. Every time we're going to do something during a ceremony or reception, I coordinate with the videographer or
photographer or whoever is there. Most of the time I have to coordinate with the catering people, too.”
When looking for a DJ or a live band, it is best to book early. Having a good DJ also offers more variety in music and activities, DJ Jeff said.
“The benefit of a seasoned DJ versus a seasoned band is the ability to offer
a variety of things,” he said. “I always have the mentality that a DJ is there to keep the party going, to help people have a good time. A band is there to play some awesome music.”
In some cases, the bride and groom may choose to have both a DJ and a live band. DJ Jeff had the pleasure to experience such an occasion.
“I did one wedding where they had a band and a DJ, and that was kind of cool,” he said. “We just took different turns. I played at the beginning, and then from dinner through the beginning, I played what we would call cocktail hour, and I played for the ceremony. The band played once dinner had officially started, after I had announced everything and played for a while.”
A popular wedding band who plays throughout the state of Texas is The Love and Happiness Band. Formed after 2009 with Moontower Entertainment, the band has become a sought-after group for many brides-and-groomsto-be. One of the benefits of having a live band perform at a wedding is their ability to interact with the crowd, owner of Moontower Entertainment Amos Traytsman, said.
“A good wedding band is going to interact with the crowd on stage and off stage. It has the ability to be organic musically,” Traytsman said. “If you know a song is going well with the crowd, or there's time for interaction, or a moment, then the band can react to that. Whereas, if you're just DJing, typically you're limited by the recording.”
Certain songs have become popular for The Love and Happiness Band to play at weddings, Traytsman said.
“What's happening, interestingly, is there's some songs that are popular but not very popular when they first came out,” Traytsman said. “They have made huge comebacks, I think because of social media like Tiktok and things. For example, the ABBA song, “Gimme,Gimme, Gimme” (from the 1970s) has become a huge song again.”
The typical set length for a band like Love and Happiness is around four hours, and the band usually handles announcements and any DJing that will take place.
Whether a bride and groom choose to have a live wedding band or a DJ, both come with their own set of unique services that are sure to bring a night to remember.
Weig ht Loss Medications: What You Need to Know
Weight loss medications have gained significantattention recently, with several newdrugs becoming available. But who are these medications for, and how effective are they?
Who Are Weight Loss Medications For?
Weight loss medications are not for those seeking to losea few pounds According to theFDA, candidates must have:
1.A body massindex(BMI) of 30 or higher.
2.ABMI of 27 or higher with weight-related comorbidities(e.g., type 2diabetes, hypertension).
HowEffective Are Weight Loss Medications?
Studies show that, whencombined with a healthydiet andexercise, weight loss medications canlead to significant weight loss. Forexample:
1. Semaglutide(Wegovy, Ozempic) has been shown to result in15-18% weight loss.
2. Tirzepatide(Mounjaro, Zepbound) has been shown to result in22% weight loss.
Common Weight Loss Medications
1.*Semaglutide(Wegovy, Ozempic)*: Injection, once weekly, for type 2diabetes and weight loss.
2.*Tirzepatide(Mounjaro, Zepbound)*: Injection, once weekly, for type 2diabetes and weight loss.
3.*Setmelanotide(Imcivree)*: Injection, once daily, for genetic disordersleading to weight management issues.
4.*Liraglutide(Victoza, Saxenda)*: Injection, once daily, for type 2diabetes and weight loss.
5.*Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia)*:Oral medication, once daily, for weight loss.
6.*Bupropion-Naltrexone (Contrave)*:Oral medication, twice daily, for weight loss.
Side Effects and Considerations
Common side effectsinclude nausea, vomiting,diarrhea, and injection site reactions. Serious side effects may includeincreased risk of pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, and allergic reactions. Insurance coverage variesdepending on the medication,employer, and plan.
Consulta Healthcare Professional
Before starting any weight loss medication,consulta healthcare professional to discuss:
1. Eligibility and suitability.
2. Potentialsideeffects.
3. Insurancecoverage
4. Lifestyle changes to support weight loss.
Remember, weight loss medications are nota quick fix. They should be used inconjunction with a healthy diet, regularexercise, and behavioral changes for sustainable weight loss.
LITERATUREREVIEW ANDWRITTENBY NHILEMD
Internal Medine/Anti Aging/ Functional Medicine/Cosmetic Dermatolog y Fountain of Youth Medical Spa Texas Medical Wellness Clinic
A New Look
Traditional tuxedos take a back seat to modern
trends
STORY BY MICHAEL MILLIORN | MMILLIORN@VICAD.COM
he model wedding, and the traditions that come with it, have become well established in the culture of the United States. From the elegant white dress to the routine wedding march, certain traditions have cemented themselves in the history of countless couples’ most memorable
However, more and more weddings have subverted these traditions, bringing a sense of individuality to ceremonies across the nation.
The usual Tuxedo–black blazer, slacks and uniform tie–has seen differing variations in many weddings, especially in the southern regions of America. In the rural areas of South Texas, a country spin on the traditional tuxedo has taken the spotlight.
A button-up shirt and tie, coupled with blue jeans, boots and a grandiose cowboy hat has seen more use than the
stiff, sleek look of the tuxedo in many weddings across the countryside. The cultural connections to the country aesthetic and the longevity of outfit use has made this new groom’s attire a more appealing choice to many men standing at the altar.
Nehemiah and Sydni Zacharias, married on May 9, 2024 at The Fellowship of the Crossroads church in Victoria, favored the country-leaning look for their big day.
“We decided to go with boots and jeans because we wanted to look good while at the same time being comfortable,” Sydni Zacharias said. “We wanted to be able to wear those outfits in the future, so boots and jeans gave us a way of doing that.”
Boots and blue jeans held a deep significance for Sydni, standing as a continuous symbol during her upbringing and a memory-filled
identifier of her father. Nehemiah adopted the style as he joined Sydni, and her family, in marriage.
“I grew up with a very hard-working father that [wore] his boots and a pair of wranglers wherever he went,” Sydni Zacharias said. “For special events, he would put on his ‘nice’ boots, jeans and sometimes a cowboy hat.”
The new take on the grooms’ outfit allowed the couple to be true to themselves. For individuals who do not consider themselves fancy, this take on the traditional tuxedo gave them the ability to stay true to themselves during the important occasion.
The clothing pieces associated with the outfit are essential pieces of clothing for South Texas culture. Many community members in Victoria, and its neighboring cities, wear boots and jeans on a daily basis, fusing the pairing with their identities.
“Boots, jeans, and cowboy hats are a southern staple especially in Texas; therefore, incorporating bits of the culture into special events is a must,” Nehemiah Zacharias said.
Knowing the background of their many guests, Sydni and Nehemiah looked to translate this cultural comfortability into their wedding’s dress code. Expensive dresses worn once and rigid suites rented for the day were not a requirement.
“Our dress code was dressy casual because we wanted our guests to be comfortable in what they wore while also not asking them to spend time and money on fancy outfits for the day,” Sydni Zacharias said.
Cultural significance and comfortability were not the only factors in the decision to stray away from the tradition of the tuxedo. Fitting the groomsmen in clothes they felt confident in acted as a choice that further bonded Nehemiah and his wedding party together.
“The outfits we wore not only matched the theme of the wedding, but also allowed us to have a good time
before the wedding when we picked out the hats together, making it an even more memorable day,” Nehemiah Zacharias said.
Straying away from the wedding traditions so deeply engraved in American ideals and expectations allowed the couple to truly make the day their own. A sense of pride and joy were further developed by the making of a unique wedding path.
“The wedding truly represented our unique relationship and personalities very well, especially with our outfits,” Sydni Zacharias said. “They were the perfect balance of formality and comfort. We would not change anything about that day. It was truly a once-in-alifetime experience for us that we will remember forever.”
Shattering Traditions and Conventions
Younger generation trends away from past wedding customs
STORY BY JAMES DAVID HERD | JHERD@VICAD.COM PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED BY RODERICK MCDANIEL
Close your eyes and imagine a wedding. Chances are you pictured an overly formal ceremony in a church or courthouse.
It could be you see someone wearing an elaborate dress and the other an expensive, standardized tuxedo. Those to-be-wed are likely about to deliver a set of pre-written vows that show the depths of their profound love for each other while family and friends sit restlessly in the audience.
But what if this vision isn’t necessarily
the standard formula for a wedding as it once might have been?
Roderick McDaniel, of Austin, is an ordained minister with Universal Life Church. McDaniel says the tradition of religious ceremonies, towering layer cakes and white chapels could be on the decline.
“There has been a huge increase [in] people [removing] all prayer and religious iconography from their ceremonies,” McDaniel said. “I think as religion loses its appeal in each
generation, that will only grow.”
McDaniel says the various scandals within the Catholic Church at the center and the cultural impact left by televangelists are at least partially to blame for the shift from weddings rooted in religion to weddings that are more agnostic in nature.
“People want to declare their love for each other surrounded by their friends and family, but they don’t want it tied to a religion they don’t support or believe in,” McDaniel said. “I always have to tell the parents who don’t agree that nothing stops them from praying over the bride and groom and for the
success of their marriage, but the final decision always rests with the bride and groom if there will be any prayer or traditional dressings.”
But, the idea of moving away from traditional wedding archetypes doesn’t have to be an indictment of religion. As pop culture, including movies, music, television and video games become more mainstream, there are more examples of people incorporating their love of such media into their ceremonies.
McDaniel, who became ordained in order to officiate his employees when he worked at GameStop, says he tries to tailor each ceremony to the couple being married.
“One time, there was a prayer that was all video game titles,” he said. “Another time, I was an emissary for the Q from Star Trek sent to observe an Earth ceremony.”
All it takes is a simple search on TikTok for ‘geek weddings’ to find examples of this fundamental shift. From ceremonies incorporating a PlayStation aesthetic to the lucky couple swapping a first dance with a first match in “Mario Kart,” it’s clear this generation is changing the game, for lack of a better phrase.
McDaniel is, as mentioned, ordained by Universal Life Church, which describes itself as “a nondenominational religious organization” that promotes “universal togetherness and religious expression around the world,” according to its website. Other notable ministers of the church include Conan O’Brien, Benedict Cumberbatch, Lady Gaga, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and Paul McCartney.
McDaniel says the paradigm shift is neither good nor bad.
“I think it is more [a] reflection of the times we live in and the people who are getting married these days,” he said.
ComingAge of
Quinceañera marks special time in young woman’s maturity
Quinceañeras are the special celebration of a young lady’s transition from childhood to womanhood, and they employ specific traditions that make the occasion more than any other birthday.
Traditionally, quinceañeras mark the moment when a lady becomes a woman, with an emphasis on family and society. But the celebration is only the tip of the iceberg to planning and orchestrating such an occasion.
THEME
For Lola Castillo, a resident of Garwood, her 15th birthday was made even more magical by the unique theme chosen for her quinceañera to be “Wizards and Muggles,” a fantastical spin on an equally fantastic cultural tradition.
“We chose a wizards and muggles theme because it allows for very elegant decorations along with creative details and adds an element of fun and mystery to the celebration,” Castillo said. “The whole family loves the series [Harry Potter] and I wanted something really about me.”
Choosing the theme could be considered the first step in the long, complicated process of planning a
quinceañera. But Lola’s mother, Jessica Marshall, accredited finding good, quality accoutrements for the occasion while sticking close to the budget is the trickiest part.
“There are so many elements— catering, decoration, dress, venu—that make it very hard to strike a balance between quality and price,” Marshall said. “Managing schedules with all the family involved, vendors, and the quince court also adds a lot of little stresses.”
Planning any large event can be taxing on the mind, the body, and the wallet. But planning a celebration for something as important as the coming of age requires months of preparation with the guest list, the catering, the dress selection, the quince court, the venue and the decorations, all while upholding traditional quinceañera customs and also catering the occasion to the special lady.
While there isn’t one singular methodology of planning one, for the Castillos, early planning was key to executing a successful process.
“Try to plan as early as possible and make a timeline,” Marshall said. “Don’t be afraid to ask family
and friends for help; they can really support you a lot and give you lots of ideas. I also suggest flexibility in your planning, since everything may not turn out exactly as expected.”
VENUE
The first thing to do when planning a quince is to narrow down your venue. It’s important to take into consideration the size of the guest list and the intended activities to determine how big of a space is needed.
The venue could also be an extension of the theme. If a rustic barn makes more sense for a southern theme, then a fancy hall might not be the best choice. After choosing the type of venue, it’s equally important to pin down a day the venue is open to host as well as make a budget for the entire occasion.
“Once we had our venue, we started booking vendors for catering, photography, music, etc,” Marshall said. “We made a list of tasks that would be leading up to the event night and included things such as sending invitations, dress fittings, and finalizing the quince court. As time neared, we also organized rehearsals to ensure everything was done perfectly.”
As is true with most other large celebrations, planning earlier is equal for a smooth and less stressful experience, although last-minute conflicts are bound to throw a wrench in any plan.
“I wish I had known that earlier planning is key,” Marshall said. “We did have last-minute changes, and those were a little stressful. But we had an extremely detailed checklist to track tasks and deadlines, which made it easier.”
THE DRESS AND THE COURT
One of the many unique traditions of a quinceañera is the birthday girl’s elaborate gown; a physical indication of her coming of age as well as an iteration of her personality and charm. Like a prom dress for prom night, it is an extremely personal decision. Choosing the right style, color and fit is the next thing to be considered.
Most dress shops can take a few months from first selection to final fitting, including any alterations needed. Starting the process for
Photo by Carleigh Lienemann; dress provided by Jade & Madalynn
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picking one as early as possible will give you plenty of time to make it perfect and allow any hiccups to be addressed.
“I chose my dress because it made me feel like a princess,” Castillo said. “It had some traditional and modern mix with beautiful detailing that pretty much sold it to me. It means something in regard to my personality, and I felt confident and comfortable when the dress was put on.”
Most dress shops are more than happy to accommodate any size, style, budget, or preference. Some employ tailors and seamstresses on site to help with any alternations and include it in the cost.
The Quince Court represents the years of the quinceañera’s life, usually consisting of seven damas (young women) and seven chambelanes (young men) with the quinceanera herself being the 15th member. These special people in the birthday girl’s life can be friends or family and are intended to accompany her on her big day.
“Another unique feature was the selection of the quince court and godparents,” Castillo said. “I had chosen friends and family that mean an enormous amount and have an enormous effect on my life. I wanted people who care and support similar values as my own.”
GUESTS, TRADITIONS AND THE DAY OF
A party is no party without guests enjoying good food and better company. Guest lists can consist of everyone with a slight connection to the host, or it can be a more intimate selection of close friends and family. Invitations should consider the budget for catering, the size of the venue and connection to the event as well as viability of attending. If the venue is too far away for some guests, for example, it may deter them from attending.
“The guest selection process included compiling a close friend and family list,” Castillo said. “We wanted to make sure we invited people who have played an active part in my life and
those who have been a great encouragement through the years. We wanted all the special people in our life on this big day.”
The venue, food, music, dress and the guests have been checked off the list, but what makes a quinceañera different from other birthday celebrations? The traditions.
Quinceañeras are special because of who they celebrate; not what they celebrate, One of the most iconic traditions of hosting one is celebrating the culture from which it originated.
“For me, this is about meaningful traditions, a bond with my family, and celebrating culture,” Castillo said. “The dress, the decor and venue all add something creative and personal to this experience, but the love of my family and friends is what makes this truly special.”
Each family will honor different traditions, and the ones closer to their heart than others
will get the limelight. For Lola Castillo, that special tradition for her was the silhouette dance, which is the backlit choreographed dance between father and daughter.
“This is such a beautiful tradition, which signifies my growing up to be a lady,” she said. “I was so happy to share this with my mom and dad.”
It’s easy to get lost in the planning, preparation, budgeting, scheduling, and rehearsing for one beautiful night celebrating a loved one’s coming of age. But it's important to remember the journey that led to the big celebration and every life it has touched on the way.
“It isn’t all about me; this event reflects the love and devotion of my family,” Castillo said. “This day was filled with delight for everyone who has been a part of my journey.
