TheWeddingMag Spring 2023

Brianna Willis Photography

EDITORS' NOTE

Whether you are newly engaged or have been planning for over a year, we have plenty of amazing local vendors who can help. We have inspiration, local wedding stories, and a dress preview in this issue alone. We also have two stunning spring inspired shoots. Our first took place at Marquette Park, featuring a Cinderella-themed wedding, designed by SheDesigns, to get your creativity flowing! Our other stylized shoot was a luxurious wedding day display at the new Four Winds Casino in South Bend, gorgeously coordinated by Merry Me Events. Be sure to check out our Luxurious Love and So This is Love shoots for inspiration for your wedding day.

Looking for more inspiration? Be sure to check out our website theweddingmag.com.

Happy Planning!

See more online theweddingmag.com

#theweddingmag

EDITORIAL EDITORS

Ryan Bradley

Brooke Shaw

ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR

Brooke Shaw

PHOTOSHOOT COORDINATOR

Jessica Haviland

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Katie Yoder

ART & DESIGN

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Ryan Bradley

SALES

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Ron McKim

Jim Rhoda

HOW TO REACH US PUBLISHED BY Northstar Media Group, INC. P.O. Box 307 Osceola, IN 46561

PHONE 574.514.7746

E-MAIL info@theweddingmag.com

ONLINE www.theweddingmag.com

The Wedding Mag is published quarterly by NorthStar Media Group Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The Wedding Mag cannot and will not be held liable for the performance or quality of performance of any of the goods or services provided by the advertisers in this publication

Nick & Arianna

Is there anything more classic than a black and white wedding? Nick and Arianna created an absolutely stunning wedding day that was timeless and elegant. Their vision came together beautifully and I loved photographing every detail! Ari graduated from St. Mary’s, which made the ceremony there even more special. I just love when my couples incorporate personal aspects into their wedding! The chapel and campus provided a perfect backdrop for their day, it is such a beautiful place. Just north of campus

is The Gillespie, and it’s proximity to St. Mary’s made it the ideal location for their reception. I love shooting in the spacious ballroom because of the clean modern lines, neutral color palette, and most of all the gorgeous light fixtures. Being a part of Nick and Ari’s day was an honor, I feel extremely privileged to be trusted by each and every couple I photograph! Listening to her family speaking Italian all day was the icing on the cake!

VENDORS

Ceremony

Holy Spirit Chapel

Saint Mary's College

Venue

The Gillespie Conference Center

Photographer

JB Photography

Jeweler

Georgetown Jewelers

Caterer

Hilton Garden Inn

The Gillespie Conference Center

Cake

Sweet-Em's Cake Shoppe

Gown

Brides by Young

Hair/Makeup

Beauty and Bliss

Flowers

Poppies

Music

Morrow Strings

Vocalist

McKayela Collins-Hornor

Uplighting & DJ

Events by ProShow

Rentals

AAYS Event Rentals

Accessories

Vanessa's Modern Bride

Tuxedo

Men's Warehouse

Invites

Aloha Print Group

“I just love when my couples incorporate personal aspects into their wedding!”

SUBMITTED BY JB PHOTOGRAPHY

HERE COMES THE DRESS BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

Granger

1241 E. University Dr. Granger, IN 46530 574.345.0702

hctdgranger

Chesterton 850 Sidewalk Rd. Suite 101, Chesterton, IN 46304 219.728.1328

hctdboutique

• BY APPOINTMENT ONLY • WWW.HERECOMESTHEDRESS.COM

jessica@photography-jb.com 574.221.1044

Our completely restored historic barn has been a landmark in the area for generations and is ideally suited for weddings, receptions, and corporate gatherings up to 300 guests.

Stephanie DeBolt Photography

Danielle Sergio Photography

PERLA

This unique fit and flare dress was designed for the modern bride. Featuring a geometric bodice with exposed boning, thick straps, and a subtle sweetheart neckline. Perla turns up the sexy with beautiful pearls running down your silhouette to add a touch of glamour and contour your natural curves.

NOW BOOKING 2023/2024 WEDDING AND LARGE EVENTS!

Kindred and Co Weddings

Beautiful modern style barn with vintage touches. Dense forestation, scenic views and flower fields for days! Rental includes tables, chairs, hanging white drapery, chandeliers and so much more.

On-site coordinating services, in house centerpieces options, and your own black, vintage truck for photos. Beautiful on-site Airbnb for rental.

Marion Magnolia Farms Owner and Operator | Brittany File (269) 262-2518 | Bdfile9@gmail.com | MarionMagnoliaFarms.com 57376 Twin Lakes Rd., Cassopolis, MI 49031

Chandra Dover {Floral Designer} 574.276.6199 Chandra@snapdragon-designs.com • snapdragon-designs.com

Brad & olivia

White Oak Farm Venue perfectly suited Olivia and Brad’s Reception. The ladies got their hair and makeup done by the Top Knot Bridal team in the large bridal suite, while the guys got ready and played pool in the groom's quarters.

Sugarfield Flowers brought stunning arrangements. I am obsessed with this floral, my favorites included some soft pink tulips, white anemone, and draping deep pink amaranthus. The pinks and whites were amazing with the bridesmaids in elegant black gowns. We did a first look on the patio, which is also where the ceremony took place later on. A family member brought their beloved Corgi, Zoe, for a few family portraits.

The proximity to Lake Michigan from this venue makes beach photos possible! They hired a bus to transport their wedding party and family to the beach for some gorgeous family and bridal party photos.

The bride and groom ate dinner at a sweetheart table at the top of the staircase, where they could view all of their guests. Following dinner, the band, Blue Water Kings, was set up on the patio for the first dance right after the sun set. Guests poured onto the dancefloor as soon as open dancing began.

VENDORS

Venue

White Oak Farm Venue

Photographer

Monica Z Photography

Caterer

CK Catering Cake

Bit of Swiss

Gown

Something Blue Bridal Hair & Makeup

Top Knot Bridal

Flowers

Sugarfield Flowers

Music

Blue Water Kings

Tuxedo

Louie’s Tux Shop

Planer & Decor

Lake Life Social (Dee Hadad)

Videographer

Cress Videography

“The proximity to Lake Michigan from this venue makes beach photos possible!”

SUBMITTED BY MONICA Z PHOTOGRAPHY

- Monica Z Photography

ESSENSE OF AUSTRALIA

Get swept away in Style D3636, a romantic A-line wedding dress draped in soft layers of delicate chiffon. The notched plunging neckline accentuates the soft pleating of the romantic wrapped bodice. Detachable off-the-shoulder blouson sleeves add a luxe detail for this versatile wedding look, which can also be worn strapless.

Photo by J.R. Owen & Co.

MARTINA LIANA

Sparkle and shine in Style 1442—a romantic layered tulle wedding dress of soft floral lace and intricate beading. Sparkling beaded spaghetti straps attach to a sheer corset-style bodice with an alluring sweetheart neckline and subtle illusion plunge.

Luxurious Love

SPRING COLOR PALETTE

Four Winds Casino South Bend (866) 494-6371

www.fourwindscasino.com

Venue

The moment we walked into Four Winds Casino South Bend’s new hotel, we felt like we were transported to a different, more luxurious location.

This luxury hotel offers 317 rooms and 83 suites with elegant, modernized décor and accommodations that include Hospitality Suites, master bedrooms and bathrooms, fireplaces, a bar, outdoor seating, outdoor rooftop pool and a full-service spa that includes a sauna, steam room, his and hers lounge areas and many relaxing spa services to choose from. Inside the hotel on the third floor is the Edgewater Café that has delectable cuisine and lively entertainment.

DESIGNER & FLORAL

Merry Me Events (574) 532-5588

www.merrymeevents.com

RENTALS

Burns Special Events (574) 259-4807

www.burnsrentals.com

Decor&Floral

Inside the ballroom at the Four Winds Casino South Bend’s hotel, Merry Me Events, along with Burns Special events created a candlelit backdrop that was incredibly unique! The coral, white and gold details on the tablescapes combined for a very luxurious feel. The metal stationery at each table setting was a statement piece.

Merry Me Events also created all the floral arrangements for this stylized shoot. They used a variety of floral such as french tulips, anemone, chocolate lisianthus, purple scoop scabiosa, quicksand roses, painted tree fern, and assorted eucalyptus to name a few.

A sweetheart table provides a rare chance for you to enjoy an intimate moment alone together

GOWN Here Comes The Dress (574) 345-0702

www.herecomesthedress.com

HAIR & MAKEUP Beauty King

www.LyzKingMua.com

Makeup Assistant - Sierra Leone (574) 514-0643

Hair - Chantel Diggins (574) 440-1123

TUXEDO

Louie’s Tux Shop (574) 272-2486

www.louiestuxshop.com

Gown&Tuxedo

Our models, Nickea and Anthony Jones, looked incredible. We loved Nickea’s sweetheart neckline, spaghetti strap gown provided by Here Comes The Dress. It had the most intricate beading on the bodice that trailed down to the skirt of the dress. Anthony looked dashing in a tan tux provided by Louie’s Tux Shop. The floral pocket square that Merry Me Events created perfectly matched with Nickea’s bouquet.

Hair&Makeup

Nickea’s makeup and hair was done by the Beauty King Glam Team. We loved her bright eyes and bold pink lip. Her tight curled hair and glamorized makeup gave off an old Hollywood vibe that was perfect for this shoot.

Decadent Food

Four Winds Casino created an amazing and delicious meal that would make you and your guests wanting seconds! For an appetizer, their chef made jumbo shrimp cocktail, mini crab cakes with sweet roasted corn sauce and butter melted leeks and candied apple pork belly. Their wedge salad was made of baby iceberg, Nueske’s bacon, smoked bleu, roasted potatoes with buttermilk ranch. The Mediterranean salad had hearts of romaine, pickled beets, marinated red and yellow tomatoes, roasted olives, feta, and a balsamic glaze with olive oil.

The three entrée’s that they made were broiled salmon on Beurre Blanc wild rice and seasonal vegetables, filet mignon with wild mushroom potato au gratin and seasonal vegetables, and a chicken Oscar that has a Béarnaise sauce, crab meat mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Four Winds team of experienced Catering Specialists are eager to customize your wedding to make it a truly memorable event.

Cake

You can never go wrong by getting your wedding cake from Sweet-Em’s Cake Shoppe. The cake that they designed for this stylized shoot was absolutely breathtaking! The details on each layer of the cake are eye catching. We love the light pink/coral color that is perfect for a springtime wedding.

PHOTOGRAPHER

Monica Z Photography (219) 229-0796

www.monicazphotography.com

DESSERT

Four Winds Casino South Bend (866) 494-6371

www.fourwindscasino.com

Photography

One of the best investments you can make while you are planning your wedding is getting a superb photographer. Look no further than Monica Z Photography! Her lighting, posing, attention to detail and overall professionalism is topnotch! The images speak for themselves.

Dessert

The dessert tray was not only mouthwatering, but so eloquently displayed. Four Winds South Bend made white chocolate covered strawberries, chocolate truffles, macarons, assorted chocolate bon bons, hazelnut medallions, Four Winds Chocolate domes, lemon meringue shooters and hazelnut coffee crunch.

VENDORS

VENUE, FOOD, & DESSERT

Four Winds Casino South Bend (866) 494-6371

www.fourwindscasino.com

DESIGNER & FLORAL

Merry Me Events (574) 532-5588

www.merrymeevents.com

RENTALS

Burns Special Events (574) 259-4807

www.burnsrentals.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

Monica Z Photography (219) 229-0796

www.monicazphotography.com

CAKE Sweet-Em’s Cake Shoppe (574) 606-5517

www.sweetemscakeshoppe.com

GOWN Here Comes The Dress (574) 345-0702

www.herecomesthedress.com

TUXEDO

Louie’s Tux Shop (574) 272-2486

www.louiestuxshop.com

HAIR & MAKEUP Beauty King

www.LyzKingMua.com

Makeup - Lyz King

Makeup Assistant - Sierra Leone (574) 514-0643

Hair - Chantel Diggins (574) -440-1123

MODELS

Nickea & Anthony Jones

We never take for granted how special and important your wedding day will be. Whether you are dreaming of a small intimate gathering or an extravagant celebration, the DoubleTree-South Bend is committed to working with you on every single detail.

B Graves Photography

Julian & Slendy

The few days leading up to Slendy and Julian's wedding had us all watching weather reports more than we ever had. We all wanted to make this couple’s dream of an outdoor ceremony and receptions a reality. The day of the wedding, it poured. There were small periods of sunshine here and there, still surrounded heavily by rain.

Just before the ceremony started, the photographer saw Julian standing with something in his hand. She focused her camera, and zoomed in on Julian. He was holding a tie, the tie that his stunning bride Slendy had surprised him with the night before. It wasn’t an ordinary tie, because sewn into the back of it was a photo of Julian’s family, including his father. In this photo, Julian was 6 years old, and it was one of the last times they were all together. The tears were already flowing as a beautiful moment was captured.

It had poured rain all morning and the ground was completely saturated. The tent was set up and ready to accommodate Julian and Slendy’s guests. We checked again the hour before the

ceremony and it looked like we were going to get lucky, and we were going to get some sunshine!! We quickly moved the tables to the outside patio of this picturesque venue and repositioned all the decor just in time. Everything was picture-perfect, the tables, donning the beautiful centerpieces that the bride and sister made the night before. Just as the couple was in the middle of the most beautiful vows, the heavens opened and the rain poured down once again. It was like something out of a movie, it was priceless, yet beautiful and no one ran to seek shelter, they all stayed put and marveled at this couple and their lovely words to each other. It was perfect!

Afterward, the rain had finally cleared for the day and the family celebrated. You could feel how much love enveloped every one of them. To say it was like a dream come true is an understatement. The outdoor reception was dreamy and the company was grand. All of the vendors did an amazing job making this such a wonderful night.

VENDORS

Photographer

Briana Willis Photography

First Dress

LDRbridal (Eva Lendel)

Second Dress

Grace Loves Lace

Grooms Suit

Indochino

Venue

Emerson House

Wedding Planner

Unveiled Weddings & Events

Floral

Costco

Bouquet Design

Unveiled Weddings & Events

Invitations

Canva

DJ & Entertainment

The Fiesta Pros

Videographer

Silverworth Films

Cake & Desserts

Bittersweet Pastry Shop & Cafe

Catering

Wooden Paddle

Makeup

By Jayliss

Hair

Rare Bird Beauties

Rentals (Tent/Tables/Dinnerware)

Burns Special Events

"The outdoor reception was dreamy and the company was grand."

SUBMITTED BY UNVEILED WEDDINGS & EVENTS

Industrial Chic

Mixing decor styles is a great way to bring personality and character to your space.

SUBMITTED BY JOURNEYMAN VALPO

Having to work in a construction zone was our first major challenge when planning this shoot but the building still had some really cool features that we worked off of to create the design. For instance, a timeless brick wall and gorgeous large black framed windows. Since the space is very industrial we wanted to soften it with a whimsical and romantic design yet modern and still staying true to what the space has to offer.

To bring whimsical and romantic elements, we decided to use the brick wall as the "ceremony" space, having the florals climbing up the wall and littering the ground with gold lanterns. It gave it a very "fairy tale" feel.

For the tablescape, we kept modern pieces to help tie in the industrial feel by using black plates, black flatware and modern glassware. But then tied in the whimsical romance with a flowy runner, cheese cloth napkins, bud vases and a mix of candles.

All the vendors worked so well together and really brought their unique styles and vision for this shoot. We tried to really showcase local Valparaiso vendors like Designer Desserts and Lake Effect Floral. What an amazing opportunity for such a huge venue like Journeyman to come to Valpo!

We can't wait for the new Journeyman Valpo venue to open soon and help make your wedding dreams come true!

VENDORS

Venue

Journeyman Valpo

Photographer

Blackbird and Rye Photography

Planning, Design & Rentals

White Dahlia Events

Hair and Makeup

Vanis Salon & Day Spa

Florist

Lake Effect Florals

Dessert

Designer Desserts

Dress

Here Comes the Dress

Modern meets industrial.

AT ST JOE FARM, HOSPITALITY

IS KEY.

Access to our beautiful property and its venues make for a destination experience unique for each guest.

• Seating for 275 guests

• Air conditioning provided in the event barn

• Indoor and outdoor ceremony sites

• A Navarre Hospitality Group event venue

STAY ON-SITE AT BLUMS BARN LOFT

Beautiful three level apartment. Sleeps 14 guests.

Westley Leon Studios

All Inclusive Wedding Experience

At The Morris Estate, hospitality is our cornerstone. We’re prepared to arrange every detail of your perfect day. Our wedding coordinators are here to relieve stress and take care of all the details from the moment you say ‘Yes’ to saying ‘I do.’ A vintage Chapel and elegant outdoor Tent make for a picture perfect destination wedding. Luxurious, on-site lodging completes your wedding weekend, and our in-house catering offers a menu for any occassion. Trust The Morris Estate to turn your wedding dreams into reality.

STUDIO PHRENE

JENN PLUMLEE RACHEL ANDRADE

Scott & Chelsea

SUBMITTED BY SHANE CLEMINSON PHOTOGRAPHY

New Years Eve weddings are always fun!

Chelsea and Scott planned their wedding timeline around midnight and welcoming in 2023.

Their wedding was unique from the start. It was full of small details that gave away what was special to them.

Chelsea had her hair and makeup done in front of a huge repurposed fire hose made into a flag. She made it herself and I loved using it as a backdrop for those photos.

Scott, is a local fireman, and he was waiting at the station with the groomsmen when I got there. I had a pick of where and which way I wanted to place a fire truck for the formals

and first look. This is a photographer's dream! I could get great backlight and work around the buildings. Their ceremony was at a lovely church in Hammond. I knew when I walked in I wanted to get a photo of Chelsea in front of the unique doors at the back.

The real fun started at Smits Farms. Not many couples have a wedding reception in a real greenhouse. It was full of incredible greenery and had ample seating for all the guests. The dance floor was packed right up to the champagne fountain and balloon drop at midnight. Doc’s BBQ kept everyone well-fed in an endless buffet of BBQ, and Nightshift DJ’s kept the dance floor packed all night. I can think of no better way to end a year and start a new year!

VENDORS

Reception Venue

Smits Farms

Photography

Shane Cleminson Photography

Makeup Artist

Krissy Vanderwoude

Hair

Kelly Peterson & Brittany Vidal

Flowers

Mark Golec

DJ

Nightshift DJs

Dress

Catherine’s Bridal Valparaiso

- Shane Cleminson Photography

“Their wedding was unique from the start. It was full of small details that gave away what was special to them.”

LOVE IS IN BLOOM AT COUNTRY STRONG!

If you’re like the excited couples we’ve been talking to, spring can only mean one thing ... Your Wedding Date Will Be Here Soon! Visit us at Country Strong to discover the perfect arrangement of classic beauty, caring staff, and amenities your guests will love.

KAYLA KNIES PHOTOGRAPHY

Matt & Jaymi Photography

So This Is Love

VENUE

Marquette Park Pavilion

(219) 938-7362

www.marquetteparkgary.org

HORSE & CARRIAGE

Ever After Equines

www.everafterequines.com

Venue

The moment that you say “yes,” when your prince is on his knee asking your hand in marriage, is the moment that you have become your own Cinderella! If you ever dreamed of having a “Cinderella” themed wedding as a little girl, now is the time to create your own magical day and be inspired by this themed stylized shoot.

The moment we walked into Marquette Park Pavilion, we knew this was the perfect venue for a Cinderella themed wedding. The cathedral ceilings, stone pillars, grand patio overlooking the water and a ballroom big enough for you and all of your guests.

“If you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true.” – Cinderella

DESIGNER SheDesigns (219) 508-9451

www.shedesignsllc.com

Designer

SheDesigns always goes above and beyond your wedding dreams. They created this Cinderella themed wedding from a beautifully decorated tablescape all the way to bringing in a Clydesdale and white carriage from Ever After Equines.

The dusty blue and floral greenery tablescape looked so sophisticated and elegant. The gold chargers and flatware stood out and created a luxurious table layout to inspire your magical day.

BACKDROP

Beary Pop Up (219) 628-2669 www.bearypopup.com

Backdrop

Adding in backdrop spaces are always fun at weddings! Your wedding guests will enjoy taking pictures in front of them, and it adds in a great backdrop for your wedding photographer to play with. The storybook backdrop provided by Beary Pop Up was the perfect addition to this Cinderella themed wedding shoot.

GOWN Something Blue Bridal Boutique (219) 227-8832

www.somethingbluein.com

FLORAL

La Petite Fleuriste (219) 308-9161

www.lpf-design.com

Gown

Our model, Shannon, looked like a princess in a full-length ball gown with a sweetheart neckline, lace designed bodice and a full skirt of tulle at the bottom. This dress provided by Something Blue Bridal Boutique had an exquisite train on the back of the gown with intricate buttons trailing to the end of the dress.

Floral

La Petite Fleuriste created the most beautiful table centerpieces and cascading bouquet for the bride. They used white carnations, white cremom mums, light blue delphinium and hydrangeas, ranunculus, and tulips. To add in a touch of green, they used silver dollar eucalyptus and huckleberry. The light touches of blue throughout the floral arrangements looked classy and royal.

HAIR

Josef & Mari’s Studio By Holly (219) 688-0894

www.josefandmarisalons.com

MAKEUP

Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio (219) 924-1555

merlenormanspa219.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

JB Photography (574) 221-1044

www.photography-jb.com

Hair&Makeup

Shannon’s hair, done by Josef & Mari’s Studio By Holly, embraced the Cinderella theme and gave her a modernized updo! We loved how it accentuated the tierra.

Shannon’s makeup, done by Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio, looked refreshing with a subtle hint of flush pink on her cheeks. Her smokey eye added in some intensity, yet a light rose colored lip tied everything together.

Photography

If you are looking for a photographer that embraces natural lighting and creates light and airy photos that will last a lifetime, JB Photography is the perfect fit for you! She was the perfect photographer for this Cinderella themed shoot.

Stationery

Ze Design Studio made the most beautiful stationery for this shoot. These handmade wedding invitations are ones that will be cherished forever. The watercolor artwork on the envelope along with a whimsical floral cathedral on the inside of the dusty blue envelope felt so enchanting! Ze Design Studio makes wedding invitations, menu cards, wedding charts, signs and more.

DESSERTS

Bao’s Pastry (219) 299-8693

www.baopastry.com

Desserts

Bao’s Pastry created the most delightful dessert table we have ever seen! From the puff pastries to the macarons, you couldn’t leave the table with just one. Not only do they look delicious, but the intricate design that they made was exceptional. Adding in berries and edible gold flakes, created a pop of color and texture to the pastries!

VENDORS

VENUE

Marquette Park Pavilion (219) 938-7362

www.marquetteparkgary.org

DESIGNER

SheDesigns (219) 508-9451

www.shedesignsllc.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

JB Photography (574) 221-1044

www.photography-jb.com

HORSE & CARRIAGE

Ever After Equines

www.everafterequines.com

BACKDROP Beary Pop Up (219) 628-2669

www.bearypopup.com

FLORAL

La Petite Fleuriste (219) 308-9161

www.lpf-design.com

STATIONERY

Ze Design Studio

www.zedesignstudio.com

DESSERTS

Bao’s Pastry (219) 299-8693

www.baopastry.com

GOWN

Something Blue Bridal Boutique (219) 227-8832

www.somethingbluein.com

HAIR

Josef & Mari’s Studio By Holly (219) 688-0894

www.josefandmarisalons.com

MAKEUP

Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio (219) 924-1555

merlenormanspa219.com

MODEL

Shannon McCarthy

Robert & Jessica

THE

BRIDE'S PERSPECTIVE

DESCRIBE YOUR WEDDING VISION

My wedding theme was neutral boho. I really liked the movement and fullness of Pampas grass, so that was a lot of my theme was based around. I knew my venue was very overpowering and I wanted to make sure it complemented it while still staying true to my vision. Likewise, I was really drawn to the color rust, but I knew it can be a very overpowering color so it needed to be used sparingly. I also really like the elegance of the bright white so I wanted to find a way to blend that in with the bright rust color. I worked with a wonderful artist to help craft the most perfect custom art for my invitations. I also was so fortunate to have found Poppies by Polly the day I was viewing the venue for my first look at it. She is such a talented florist and really knew how to take my neutral boho theme and translate that into the floral palette. I was really drawn to the color green for the men’s suits. I liked how it was something different than the traditional black or gray suit. My husband has green eyes so I knew it would compliment him perfectly. It ended up being a real crowd favorite and fit perfectly with the rest of my wedding colors.

DESCRIBE YOUR WEDDING DAY

My wedding day was nothing short of spectacular. There was never a moment of stress or worry. I was very lucky to have such a wonderful team of vendors, family and friends who made sure everything went perfect. I spent a lot of time and effort planning the details so when it was finally time for it to come together, there was no confusion. I trusted my vendors to make it happen and they came through!

YOUR ADVICE TO ENGAGED COUPLES

Decision fatigue is a real thing! Don’t be afraid to let other people make some decisions for you.

The most expensive vendor is not always the best vendor! Do your research, make sure you aren’t spending more for something you could get at a more reasonable price with a great vendor.

Send your invitations early and expect RSVPs to arrive extremely late…I was still getting RSVPs in the mail weeks after the wedding!

Surround yourself with the people that matter most to you. Having people you don’t know makes it feel like a performance instead of a party.

VENDORS

Photographer b graves photography

Ceremony Venue

Morris Performing Arts Center

Reception Venue

Palais Royale

Caterer

Navarre Catering & Events

Videographer

Vibrant Video Productions

Flowers

Poppies by Polly

Dress

Nancy’s Bridal Boutique

Bridesmaids Gowns

Baltic Born

MOB Dress

Gretchen's Bridal Gallery

Hair Stylist

Kayla Davenport

Makeup Artist

Ashley Urban Artistry

Nail Salon

Black Sheep Studio

Menswear

Gentlemen's Quarters

Stationery

Molly Axe

Harpist

Meg Rodgers, Harpist

Cake

C’est La Vie Cakes

DJ & Lighting

Events by ProShow

Linens & Chairs

Classic Catering and Events

Live Painter

Kristina Brewer

Hotel

Aloft South Bend

"I was very lucky to have such a wonderful team of vendors, family and friends who made sure everything went perfect."

- Jessica | The Bride

Vendor Directory

BEAUTY & HEALTH

Merle Norman Cosmetics

Highland • IN | (219) 924-1555

Crown Point • IN | (219) 662-8237

merlenormanspa219.com

see ad on page 8

Salon J

Goshen • IN | (574) 971-5229

salonjgoshen.com

see ad on page 57

BRIDAL GOWNS

Elegance Wedding & Evening Wear

Highland • IN | (219) 923-0977

elegancewedding.net

see ad on page 54

Designer Desserts

Valparaiso • IN | (219) 465-0008 designerdessertsbakery.com

see ad on page 58

Martin’s Super Markets

21 Locations • IN | (574) 361-0317 martins-supermarkets.com

see ad on page 49

Sweet-Em’s Cake Shoppe

Goshen • IN | (574) 606-5517 sweetemscakeshoppe.com

see ad on page 42

CATERING

Asparagus

Merrillville • IN | (219) 794-0000 asparagusrestaurant.com

see ad on page 58

Martin’s Super Markets

21 Locations • IN | (574) 361-0317 martins-supermarkets.com

see ad on page 49

Parea

Valparaiso • IN | (219) 510-5428 parearestaurant.com

see ad on page 50

DoubleTree By Hilton

South Bend • IN | (574) 234-2000

doubletree3.hilton.com

see ad on page 39

Four Winds Casino Resort New Buffalo • MI | (269) 926-5219

South Bend • IN | (574) 931-3557

fourwindscasino.com

see ad on page 5

Morris Park Country Club

South Bend • IN | (574) 233-9474 morrisparkcc.com

see ad on page 43

North Shore Event Center Benton Harbor • MI | (269) 934-5667 northshoreeventcenter.com

see ad on page 75

Palais Royale South Bend • IN | (574) 235-5612

palaisroyale.org

see ad on page 20

Parea

Valparaiso • IN | 219) 510-5428

parearestaurant.com

see ad on page 50

Siam Marina

Tinley Park • IL | (708) 407-8829

siammarina.com

see ad on page 58

Signature Banquets

Lowell • IN | (219) 696-7696

Here Comes The Dress

Chesterton • IN | (219) 728-1328

Granger • IN | (574) 345-0702

herecomesthedress.com

see ad on page 12

Lansing Cleaners

Lansing • IL | (708) 474-2459

lansingcleaners.com

see ad on page 24

Simply Yours Bridal Boutique

Granger • IN | (574) 204-2912

simplyyoursbridal.com

see ad on page 39

Something Blue Bridal Boutique

Schererville • IN | (219) 227-8832

somethingbluein.com

see ad on page 49

CAKES & DESSERTS

Bao's Pastry

Valparaiso • IN | (219) 299-8693

baopastry.com

see ad on page 8

Calumet Bakery

Lansing • IL | (708) 895-3700

calumetbakery.com

see ad on page 54

Chicagoland Popcorn

Merrillville • IN | (219) 940-1140

chicagolandpopcorn.com

see ad on page 22

Siam Marina Tinley Park • IN | (708) 407-8829 siammarina.com

see ad on page 58

CEREMONY & RECEPTIONS

Aberdeen Manor Chapel Garden Ballroom

Valparaiso • IN | (219) 465-7130 aberdeenmanor.com

see ad on page 36 & 37

Anderson's Winery

Valparaiso • IN | (219) 464-4936 andersonswinery.com

see ad on page 47

Asparagus Merrillville • IN | (219) 794-0000

asparagusrestaurant.com

see ad on page 58

Briar Ridge Country Club

Schererville • IN | (219) 322-3660

briarridgecc.com

see ad on page 49

Century Center

South Bend • IN | (574) 235-9711

centurycenter.org

see ad on page 69

Country Strong

Goshen • IN | (574) 202-9994

countrystrongevents.com

see ad on page 55

Halls of St George Schererville • IN | (219) 865-9411 hallsofstgeorge.com

see ad on page 22

Inn at Harbor Shores St Joseph • MI | (269) 408-9114 innatharborshores.com

see ad on page 8

Innsbrook Country Club Merrillville • IN | (219) 980-9060

innsbrookcc.com

see ad on page 38

Journeyman Distillery

Three Oaks • MI | (269) 820-2050 Valpo • IN journeyman.com/weddings see ad on page 14

Lighthouse Restaurant & Private Dining

Cedar Lake • IN | (219) 374-9283 cedarlakelighthouse.com

see ad on page 2

Marion Magnolia Farms

Cassopolis • MI | (269) 262-2518 marionmagnoliafarms.com

see ad on page 16

Marquette Park Gary • IN | (219) 938-7362

marquetteparkgary.org

see ad on page 56

Meadow Brook Barn

Goshen • IN | (574) 361-8751 meadowbrookbarn.com

see ad on page 12

signaturebanquets.com

see ad on page 9

Spohn Ballroom

Goshen • IN | (574) 862-2184

spohnballroom.com

see ad on page 4

St Joe Farm Granger • IN | (574) 360-3338

stjoefarm.com

see ad on page 48

The Blue Teal Wakarusa • IN | (574) 862-2184 thebluetealvenue.com

see ad on page 4

The Farmhouse Restaurant at Fair Oaks Farms Fair Oaks • IN | (219) 394-2697 fofarms.com/farmhouse

see ad on page 76

The Hall at Oakland Park Nappanee • IN | (574) 773-1001 oakland-hall.com

see ad on page 57

The Morris Estate

Niles • MI | (269) 684-4443

themorrisestate.com

see ad on page 51

DÉCOR

AAYS Event Rentals

Mishawaka • IN | (574) 256-1110 aaysrental.com

see ad on page 3

Gabis Arboretum Valparaiso • IN | (219) 384-1537 see ad on page 74

Burns Special Events

Mishawaka • IN | (574) 259-4807

burnsrentals.com

see ad on page 26

CLP Events

Merrillville • IN | (219) 940-1140

see ad on page 22

Kim Eldridge Special Events

Northwest • IN | (219) 871-9133

kimeldridgespecialevents.com

see ad on page 8

Merry Me Events

Edwardsburg • MI | (574) 532-5588

merrymeevents.com

see ad on page 24

Unveiled Wedding & Events

Northwest • IN | (219) 512-5620

yourunveiledevent.com

see ad on page 4

DJ'S & MUSIC

Events by ProShow

Mishawaka • IN | (574) 255-1200

proshowdj.com

see ad on page 50

Gaska String Quartet

South Bend • IN | (574) 229-0422

see ad on page 39

Niko's Wine & Dine Music

NWI | (219) 213-4147

see ad on page 42

EVENT RENTALS

AAYS Event Rentals

Mishawaka • IN | (574) 256-1110

aaysrental.com

see ad on page 3

Burns Special Events

Mishawaka • IN | (574) 259-4807

burnsrentals.com

see ad on page 26

Crown Party Rentals

Crown Point • IN | (219) 661-3866

crownpartyrentals.com

see ad on page 68

FINANCE & INSURANCE

Edward Jones

John Beck

Elkhart • IN | (574) 389-8616

edwardjones.com

see ad on page 74

FLORAL

Burns Special Events

Mishawaka • IN | (574) 259-4807 burnsrentals.com

see ad on page 26

Dixon's Florist

Munster • IN | (219) 836-1668 dixonsfloristandweddings.com

see ad on page 9

Interior Gardens

Granger • IN | (575) 825-3363 interior-gardens.com

see ad on page 13

Kristina Lynn Floral

Schererville • IN | (219) 865-8663 kristinalynnfloral.com

see ad on page 42

La Petite Fleuriste

Crown Point • IN | (219) 308-9161

lpf-design.com

see ad on page 57

Martin’s Super Markets

21 Locations • IN | (574) 361-0317

martins-supermarkets.com

see ad on page 49

Matzke Florist

Elkhart • IN | (574) 293-5657

matzkeflorist.com

see ad on page 54

Merry Me Events

Edwardsburg • MI | (574) 532-5588

merrymeevents.com

see ad on page 24

Poppies

South Bend • IN | (574) 243-5703

see ad on page 68

Snapdragon Designs

Mishawaka • IN | (574) 276-6199

snapdragon-designs.com

see ad on page 16

Unveiled Wedding & Events

Northwest • IN | (219) 512-5620

yourunveiledevent.com

see ad on page 4

HOTEL & ACCOMMODATIONS

DoubleTree By Hilton

South Bend • IN | (574) 234-2000

doubletree3.hilton.com

see ad on page 39

Four Winds Casino Resort

New Buffalo • MI | (269) 926-5219

South Bend • IN | (574) 931-3557

fourwindscasino.com

see ad on page 5

Inn at Harbor Shores

St Joseph • MI | (269) 408-9114

innatharborshores.com

see ad on page 8

INVITATIONS

Merry Me Events

Edwardsburg • MI | (574) 532-5588

merrymeevents.com

see ad on page 24

MENSWEAR

Dunhill Tuxedo

Highland • IN | (219) 923-6446

Merrillville • IN | (219) 769-7471

dunhilltuxedos.com

see ad on page 9

The best wedding venues and vendors.

Find local wedding vendors at theweddingmag.com

Louie's Tux Shop

17 Locations

louiestuxshop.com

see ad on page 25

PHOTOGRAPHY

JB Photography

Nappanee • IN | (574) 221-1044

photography-jb.com

see ad on page 12

Matt & Jaymi Photography

Hobart • IN | (219) 973-9041

mattandjaymi.com

see ad on page 14

Monica Z Photography

Michigan City • IN | (219) 229-0796

monicazphotography.com

see ad on page 24

Shane Cleminson Photography

Highland • IN | (219) 670-5268

shanecleminson.com

see ad on page 3

TRANSPORTATION

Epic Limo

Valparaiso • IN | (219) 462-5466

epiclimoinc.com

see ad on page 58

WEDDING PLANNING

Kim Eldridge Special Events

Northwest • IN | (219) 871-9133

kimeldridgespecialevents.com

see ad on page 8

Merry Me Events

Edwardsburg • MI | (574) 532-5588

merrymeevents.com

see ad on page 24

SHEdesigns

Northwest • IN | (219) 508-9451 see ad on page 16

Unveiled Wedding & Events Northwest • IN | (219) 512-5620

yourunveiledevent.com

see ad on page 4