10 BUTTERFLY DREAMS Whimsical butterfly wedding inspiration at Derbès Mansion
50 LET’S GO PARTY! Pink poolside bridal shower inspiration
30 Evelyn Allen + Derrick O’Neal 44 Cecilia Genova + Mark Emerson 64 Angie Harris +
8 A Letter from NOW Publisher Jessica Burke Celebrating 15 years of NOW Weddings
38 15 Ways to Create a Meaningful & Eco-friendly Wedding
Suggestions for couples who want to give back and minimize their wedding’s impact on the environment
34 D&D Creations
PUBLISHER JESSICA BURKE
JESSICA@THENOWBRIDE.COM
Dayna Dufrene DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Sarah Alleman
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
FOR ENGAGED COUPLES
Our blog is filled with tons of great resources, inspiration, wedding stories and photo editorials that will help you plan an amazing wedding.
FOR THE WEDDING PROFESSIONAL NOW Weddings Magazine offers affordable advertising packages with tons of perks.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ADVERTISING, PLEASE CONTACT:
NOW Weddings Magazine
Phone: 504-832-2775
Email: sales@thenowbride.com www.NOWWeddingsMagazine.com
NOW Weddings Magazine is published quarterly by New Orleans Weddings Magazine, Inc. Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited.
NOW Weddings Magazine is a registered trademark of NOWM, Inc. The use of the trademark is strictly prohibited. The information in this publication is believed to be accurate. However, NOW Weddings Magazine cannot and does not guarantee its accuracy. NOW Weddings Magazine cannot and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by advertisers or any other portion of this publication
NOWWeddingsMagazine.com
PHOTOGRAPHER + STYLING: Sarah Alleman Photography
ON LOCATION
Derbès Mansion
FLORALS
Nola Flora
CANDLE DECOR
Glo Events
GOWN
Pearl’s Place Bridal
HAIR + MAKEUP: Brittany Spreen + Kasey Smith for AHB Hair and Makeup
FINE JEWELRY
Brilliance in Diamonds
ACCESSORIES
Nestina Accessories
MANICURE
Passport Polish
MODEL: Amelia Bateman
Dear Esteemed Readers, Advertisers, and Partners,
I had no idea what the future held in store for me on September 15, 2008 when I signed the paperwork taking ownership of this magazine. I can hardly believe it’s already been a decade and a half of creating this labor of love, NOW Weddings Magazine ! What a journey it has been! As I reflect upon this milestone, I am overwhelmed with emotions of happiness, pride, and a deep sense of accomplishment.
My journey started with a vision of creating an inclusive platform to share wedding inspiration. Today, standing tall at 15 years, I am humbled to have shared countless love stories from couples across the country (and even a few from around the world!).
As we celebrate this milestone, I would like to first thank our readers. Your unwavering support and enthusiasm has fueled my passion to create content that resonates with your dreams and aspirations.
To our advertisers and partners, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. You have played an integral role in helping bring this magazine to life, ensuring that our readers have access to the finest vendors, products, and services that contribute to their dream celebrations. I cherish the relationships we have built over the years and look forward to many more years of successful collaborations.
Behind the scenes, our dedicated team has worked tirelessly to create and curate content that will inspire you. Their passion, creativity, and commitment have been the driving force behind the success of NOW Weddings
Magazine, and I am truly grateful for their efforts.
It’s only fitting that on my 15th anniversary at the helm of NOW Weddings, that I get to announce exciting news! 2024 holds an exciting expansion plan for NOW, including the release of our brand new Annual Planner Edition Magazine for both Southeast Louisiana (our home!) as well as an edition focused entirely on Gulf Coast weddings for couples across the Gulf South.
Over the last 15 years, we’ve also brought you 25 interactive bridal show experiences in the New Orleans area. In 2024, we’ll be bringing you two more - one in Louisiana as well as our very first Gulf Coast Bridal Show in Mobile, AL.
As we step into the next chapter of our journey, I promise to continue bringing you inclusive love stories, trendsetting ideas, and expert insights that will inspire your own wedding plans.
Thank you for being a part of our remarkable journey. Here’s to 15 years of NOW Weddings Magazine, and to the countless love stories yet to be written.
With love, gratitude, and the promise of more beautiful moments to come,
Jessica Burke Publisher, NOW Weddings Magazine
PHOTO: SAARAH ALLEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
This stunning folio-style invitation by Upscales Custom Collection features a Safran Suede liner with gold foil orchid motif. The clear acrylic invitation is printed in gold foil with an orchid printed background liner.
Paired with this invitation are a Three Stone Oval Engagement Ring with Petite Pears featuring a 2.05ct Oval Center and 0.3cts of Pear Side Stones and a Baguette Contour Ring from Brilliance in Diamonds.
(above, right + next page) Amelia is wearing a sophisticated ivory sheath gown from l with a painted and beaded Butterfly veil by Nestina Accessories.
For her hair and makeup we chose a soft, romantic look styled by AHB Makeup. Her hair is styled in loose, flowing curls and her makeup style is natural glam.
She carries a hand-tied bouquet of yellow and blush blooms with dainty butterflies by Nola Flora. The bouquet echoes the stunning floral “broken arch” also designed by Nola Flora. A crystal candelabra from Glo Events adds an elegant touch to the setting.
Her manicure by Passport Polish features their brilliant yellow polish color, Saul’s Light, named after the New Orleans-based non-profit of the same name. Saul’s Light provides support and community to families with babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Passport Polish donates 10% of sales of Saul’s Light Polish to the non-profit to help support their work.
(above + left) Amelia is wearing 2.00 ct Round Diamond Studs, an Emerald Solitaire Necklace, 3.01ct Emerald Three Stone Engagement Ring with Trapezoid Side Stones, and a Diamond Tennis Bangle Bracelet from Brilliance in Diamonds
This stunning jewelry ensemble includes a 1.54ct Bezel Marquise Solitaire and Baguette Contour Ring from Brilliance in Diamonds.
To complement this stunning ring, we paired Nestina Accessories’ Gold Plated floral earrings with freshwater pearls along with a matching headpiece.
(inset) Bow Knot Satin Stilettos in the color Khaki, available on Amazon*.
This Polished satin sheath from Pearl’s Place Bridal features dramatic draping and exposed corsetry. The corset is finished with handbeaded pearl details for added drama.
AHB Makeup transformed Amelia’s look to a dramatic low ponytail for a polished look.
Derbès Mansion is the perfect location for an intimate gathering. We chose the sunlight-filled Parlor as the setting for this table for two.
White butterflies hover over the table, suspended from the stunning antique chandelier.
A lush floral centerpiece by Nola Flora nestles elegant taper candles by Glo Events
At each place setting, True Value Rentals’ Coupe White China sits atop their gold-trimmed Ice Queen Chargers. Gold Aztec Flatware and cut crystal Melodia glassware complete the elegant look.
The table is draped in True Value’s Cafe linen and topped with a milk white, chiffon tulle pearl overlay from Amazon*. True Value’s Gold Linen Napkins are presented in an envelope fold and “sealed” with gold mirror butterfly place cards by ZCreateDesign
This stunning statement piece wedding cake by Kimbla’s Cakes features light-as-air wafer butterflies. The two cakes connect via a butterfly bridge adding to the wow factor!
(ABOVE) Craft cocktails add a delicious custom touch to any event. Here we spotlight Cocktail + Creative’s Lemon Pineapple Lavender Spritz. This cocktail can be made with either gin or vodka and features a house-made pineapple syrup and a lavender foam. This cocktail is topped with sparkling wine, served over ice with a pineapple wedge garnish. A charming acrylic butterfly by ZCreateDesign (available with guest names or plain as shown!) graces the glass.
For the cocktail station, a fabric printed sign by L.Fontaine Design announces the event cocktails.
(LEFT) L.Fontaine Design created this lovely white acrylic sign with gold lettering. 3D butterflies add an element of whimsy.
PHOTOGRAPHY + CREATIVE DIRECTION
Sarah Alleman Photography sarahallemanphotography.com
ON LOCATION Derbès Mansion derbesmansion.com
FLORALS Nola Flora nolaflora.com
HAIR + MAKEUP Brittany Spreen + Kasey Smith for AHB Hair and Makeup ahbmakeup.com
GOWNS Pearl’s Place Bridal pearlsplace.com
FINE JEWELRY Brilliance in Diamonds brillianceindiamonds.com
ACCESSORIES + JEWELRY Nestina Accessories nestinaccessories.com
WEDDING CAKE Kimbla’s Cakes kimblascakes.com
INVITATIONS
Upscales Custom Collection upscalescustomcollection.com
COCKTAILS Cocktail + Creative cocktailcreative.biz
RENTALS True Value Rental truevaluerentalnola.com
SCAN TO VIEW THE EDITORIAL VIDEO
BY ANNA ADDISON CREATIVE>>>
CANDLES + DECOR Glo Events gloeventdecor.com
VIDEO Anna Addison Creative annaaddisoncreative.com
SIGNS
L.Fontaine Design lfontainedesign.com
MANICURE Passport Polish passportpolish.com
ACRYLIC BUTTERFLIES ZCreateDesign etsy.com/shop/zcreatedesign
SOCIAL MEDIA COVERAGE
The NOW Factor Marketing thenowfactormarketing.com
SOCIAL MEDIA INTERN Emily Alleman
MODEL
Amelia Bateman
We’re in love with this 3.01ct Emerald Three Stone Engagement Ring with Trapezoid Side Stones and Column Diamond Band featuring baguette and round diamonds from Brilliance in Diamonds
Evelyn and Derrick met on Tinder in 2018. “Derrick swiped right first,” says Evelyn. She swiped right a week later and their love story began.
“The proposal story was simple,” says Evelyn. The couple were vacationing at Excellence at Montego Bay in Jamaica for Evelyn’s birthday and Derrick coordinated a “fake” photo shoot with the resort photographer for the proposal. Evelyn said “Yes!”
Evelyn and Derrick chose their close family and friends to stand with them as their wedding party. “Family is very important to both of us so sharing this day with them made things even more special,” says Evelyn.
Although Evelyn’s father passed away in 2020, she and Derrick found several ways to celebrate his memory at the wedding. “We included an empty seat with his hat as well as a memorial table for him so his presence could be felt,” she shares. “I also carried a picture of him on my bouquet so he could be there with me walking down the aisle.”
The ceremony and reception took place at Club XLIV & Encore in New Orleans. Evelyn had a vision for the ceremony, including a mirror aisle and dramatic floral arrangements that event planner Tenisha Keller of Chocolate Bunnie Events brought to reality.
“My favorite part of the wedding day was walking down the aisle with my mom and seeing my handsome husband smiling at me at the end of the aisle,” shares Evelyn. For Derrick, the moments after he and Evelyn were announced ‘Husband and Wife’ was his favorite.
“After all the hard work and preparations, what really mattered to us was done and {we} were now officially a married couple.”
When D & D Creations opened 38 years ago, they specialized in designing exquisite Mardi Gras costumes. But as time went on, they found clients requesting gowns for other types of formal events as well.
“Our business grew we found ourselves doing more custom formal dress work for those individuals that had a hard time finding the perfect dress,” says Missy Hildreth, Manager of D & D Creations. “That led to custom bridal.”
D & D Creations now crafts one-of-a-kind gowns that embody the dreams of brides who dare to envision the extraordinary.
“Our style is born out of the creativity of our artists, seamstresses, and the bride,” she explains. “We specialize in unusual bridal gowns. Sometimes a bride likes the top of one dress, the neckline of another and the bottom of yet another. We put all her dream dresses together to create one beautiful, specialty gown.”
Hildreth encourages brides to try on lots of different gowns before deciding what they want to have created. “Shop and try on lots and lots of dresses. Decide what you like and don’t like. What makes you feel beautiful? Then bring those ideas to us and let us create the perfect gown for you,” they advise.
She also advises brides to be open to advice from the designers. “Sometimes one part or another won’t work exactly like a bride imagines it, so as long as they understand the creation process isn’t necessarily the same as magic...we can always end with a beautiful gown.”
Most importantly, when opting for a custom gown you should start early. “We don’t like to rush,” she explains, prioritizing quality over haste. D & D takes bridal design appointments between March and October. “We can certainly make gowns for a December wedding, but you will be finished all fitting and take delivery of your dress very early!” she shares.
materials, and minimizing waste. Here’s a list of zero-waste wedding decor ideas that can help reduce environmental impact and create a beautiful, sustainable celebration:
1. Natural Elements: Embrace the beauty of nature with decor elements like potted plants, flowers, branches, and leaves. Use them as centerpieces, aisle markers, and table runners.
sustainable designers continued...
Minna - minna.co.uk
Pia Gladys Perey- piagladysperey.com
Encourage guests to carpool, use public transportation, or you can offset their travel emissions by contributing to reforestation projects such as Plant with a Purpose. You can also minimize emissions by choosing a venue that can host both the ceremony and reception, reducing the need for transportation between locations.
4. Rentals: Rent larger decor items like furniture, arches, and tableware to avoid one-time use and excess waste.
5. Edible Decor: Incorporate edible elements like fresh fruits and herbs as both decor and a tasty treat for guests.
6. Recycled Paper Decorations: Create origami, paper flowers, or hanging decorations from recycled paper or old books.
7. Reusable Tableware: Opt for real plates, glasses, and cutlery or compostable alternatives instead of disposable options.
8. Local and Seasonal Flowers: Choose local and seasonal flowers to support local growers and reduce your carbon footprint.
Incorporate vintage or second hand elements into your attire for a unique, sustainable touch. Yes, wearing your mother or grandmother’s dress counts! If that isn’t an option, here’s a list of places to look for pre-owned fashion (or sell your dress after the wedding!):
Stillwhite: stillwhite.com
OnceWed: oncewed.com
Nearly Newlywed: nearlynewlywed.com
BravoBride: bravobride.com
Facebook Marketplace: Check out the wedding-related listings on Facebook Marketplace or in wedding planning groups in your area.
If you’d rather your dress be your “something new”, there are lots of sustainable and eco-friendly designers to choose from. Here’s a list to explore!
Reformation - thereformation.com/bridal
Leila Hafzi - leilahafzi.com
Sanyukta Shrestha - sanyuktashrestha.com
Daughters of Simone - daughtersofsimone.com
Tara Lynn Bridal - taralynnbridal.com
Wear Your Love - wearyourlovexo.com
Grace Loves Lace - graceloveslace.com
In lieu of favors, donate to a charitable cause that you love in your guests names or give guests potted plants, seeds, or locallymade or even homemade treats as eco-friendly wedding favors.
Instead of traditional pre- or post-wedding parties, gather friends and family for community-building or clean up events with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, a local food bank or animal shelter.
Involve local artisans, musicians, and businesses in your wedding to support the community and boost the local economy.
Use energy-efficient LED lights or candles to create a romantic ambiance while reducing energy consumption.
Work with your bartenders to create a zero-waste bar by avoiding single-use plastics and using biodegradable straws and cups.
Choosing wedding rings and jewelry made from ethically sourced or recycled materials is a wonderful way to ensure that your special day aligns with your values. Here’s a list of reputable companies that are known for offering ethically sourced and sustainable wedding jewelry:
Brilliant Earth: brilliantearth.com
MiaDonna: miadonna.com
Clean Origin: cleanorigin.com
Bario Neal: bario-neal.com
Catbird: catbirdnyc.com
Noémie: hellonoemie.com
Ken & Dana Design: kenanddanadesign.com
Taylor & Hart: taylorandhart.com
S. Kind & Co.: skind.nyc
Melissa Joy Manning: melissajoymanning.com
Aide-mémoire Jewelry: aidememoirejewelry.com
Charles & Colvard: charlesandcolvard.com
Whether it’s excess food or the flowers from your ceremony and reception decor, donating these items not only helps the community, it also keeps unnecessary waste at bay!
Ask your caterer about donating any leftover food to a local food pantry or homeless shelter in your area. When considering
food donations, make sure to reach out to the organizations to understand their specific guidelines, transportation requirements, and any necessary paperwork. Also, coordinate with your event venue and catering service in advance to ensure a smooth and safe process for donating leftover food.
After a wedding, there are several places where you can donate flowers to spread joy and brighten someone’s day. Here’s a list of potential places to consider donating wedding flowers:
• Hospitals and Nursing Homes
• Senior Centers
• Hospices
• Homeless Shelters.
• Women’s Shelters
• Rehabilitation Centers
• Community Centers
• Religious Institutions
• Schools and Libraries
• Civic Organizations
• Charity Fundraisers
• Nonprofit Organizations
• Children’s Hospitals or Pediatric Wards
Again, remember to coordinate with the organizations beforehand to ensure they can accept flower donations and to arrange for a suitable drop-off time. Your thoughtful gesture can make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
Create a wedding registry focused on experiences, donations, or eco-friendly products that promote sustainable living.
The following platforms provide flexibility for couples to create a registry filled with experiences, honeymoon contributions, and adventures, allowing guests to give meaningful and memorable gifts that align with your specific interests.
Zola: zola.com
Blueprint Registry: blueprintregistry.com
Honeyfund: honeyfund.com
Traveler’s Joy: travelersjoy.com
MyRegistry: myregistry.com
For couples who would rather give back, ask your guests to donate to your (or their!) favorite charitable organizations. If you’re not sure who to donate to, spend some time researching organizations in your area. Here’s a list of possible causes to consider:
1. Education and Literacy: Providing access to quality education, promoting literacy, and supporting schools and educational programs.
2. Healthcare and Medical Research: Improving healthcare access, funding medical research, and supporting healthcare facilities.
3. Hunger and Food Security: Fighting hunger, providing meals, and supporting food banks and agricultural initiatives.
4. Poverty Alleviation: Helping marginalized communities, providing economic opportunities, and addressing systemic poverty.
5. Environmental Conservation: Protecting ecosystems, wildlife, and natural resources, and advocating for sustainable practices.
6. Clean Water and Sanitation: Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water, and promoting proper sanitation.
7. Human Rights and Social Justice: Advocating for equal rights, justice, and fair treatment for all individuals.
8. Gender Equality: Promoting gender equity, empowering women, and addressing issues related to gender-based discrimination.
9. Child Welfare: Ensuring the well-being of children, protecting their rights, and supporting orphanages and youth programs.
10. Mental Health and Well-being: Raising awareness about mental health, providing support services, and combating stigma.
11. Disaster Relief: Providing immediate assistance and longterm recovery support in the aftermath of disasters.
12. Elderly Care: Supporting senior citizens, ensuring their well-being, and combating social isolation.
13. Animal Welfare: Advocating for the welfare and rights of animals, supporting shelters, and promoting responsible pet ownership.
14. Refugee and Migrant Support: Assisting refugees and migrants with resettlement, integration, and access to basic needs.
15. Arts and Culture: Promoting arts, culture, and creative expression, and supporting museums, theaters, and artists.
16. Veteran Support: Offering services and resources for veterans, including healthcare, housing, and employment assistance.
17. Empowerment Programs: Providing skills training, entrepreneurship opportunities, and resources for selfsufficiency.
18. Community Development: Fostering sustainable community growth, infrastructure development, and social programs.
19. Climate Change and Sustainability: Addressing climaterelated issues, advocating for renewable energy, and supporting eco-friendly initiatives.
Remember, these are just general categories, and many charitable organizations work on a combination of these issues. When choosing a charitable cause to support, consider your personal values and passions to make a meaningful impact.
Your wedding day is a reflection of your love story and values. By incorporating these eco-friendly and community-centric ideas, you can ensure that your celebration not only leaves lasting memories but also contributes positively to the world around you. Let your wedding be a symbol of hope, love, and responsible living for years to come.
It was May of 2019 when Mark Emerson decided to propose to Cecilia Genova. “He waited about a month for me to eventually suggest we should go on a date soon,” says Cecilia. When she did, he suggested a trip to Audubon Zoo in early July.
“His plan was to take me to the zoo and then to my favorite tree in the city, the Singing Oak in City Park,” shares Cecilia. “The morning of, I was dragging my feet, confused why he was rushing us out the door for the zoo.”
Cecilia would soon learn that Mark had enlisted the help of all their closest family and friends to prepare their house for an engagement celebration.
“My procrastination forced him to improvise, so we skipped the Singing Oak, and he picked a beautiful spot in Audubon Park,” says Cecilia.
Mark played music and by the second song, “Ocean Eyes” by Billie Eilish, Cecilia knew something special was about to happen. “It was really private and beautiful, and we got to come home to a big celebration shortly after.”
THE WEDDING Cecilia and Mark chose to have an intimate wedding ceremony at the Tree of Life in Audubon Park with their closest family and friends followed 2 hours later by a large reception at WYES TV studio. “We asked guests to wear their coolest and most fun pieces, and it was so much fun getting to see what everyone came in,” says Cecilia.
During the wedding day intermission, Cecilia and Mark created a Scavenger Hunt featuring local restaurants and bars to entertain their guests. “I am really glad we did this because our guests expressed their enjoyment for trying some of the local spots, and we were able to relax getting our pictures taken because it didn’t feel like we were missing the whole thing,” says Cecilia.
“We really wanted the fun mix of gothic with a disco feel,” says Cecilia of their reception theme.
The couple made most of their wedding decor and even refurbished furniture from their home for the wedding. “This allowed us to be able to upgrade some of our old furniture in our house and not spend the money on something we could never use again,” says Cecilia. “It added a unique touch to the decor that came together really well.”
Reception highlights included a human statue dressed as an angel, a photobooth, and 3 signature cocktails (his, hers + ours) served in glasses hand-decorated by the couple. “Each glass was unique and individual. Our guests were asked to use their glasses throughout the night, and it was one of the biggest hits with our guests.”
ADDITIONAL VENDOR CREDITS: GETTING
READY LOCATION: Pontalba Apartments |
CEREMONY LOCATION: Audubon Tree of Life
|
OFFICIANT: Colin Baldridge | RECEPTION
LOCATION: WYES TV Studio | REHEARSAL
DINNER: The Cajun Ballroom, Audubon
Zoo | BRIDE’S GOWN: Lebride Atelier |
BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS: Azazie | GROOMS’ + GROOMSMENS’ TUXEDOS: Suitsvalley
|
PHOTOGRAPHY: Jordan Blanchard
Photography | VIDEO: NOM Media | FLORALS:
Kochetova | DAY OF COORDINATOR: Decor on a Dime | ADDITIONAL RENTALS: Party
Rentals Delivered | CATERING: The Price is Right | WEDDING RINGS: Aucoin Hart
Jewelers | BRIDE’S NECKLACE: Fifi Mahony’s |
INVITATIONS: Sapphire Digital Works (design)
+ MOO (printing) | HUMAN STATUE: Tomahawk
Tassels | PHOTO BOOTH: AEXO
Page Designs & Events is a wedding planning service for modern brides who are looking for a creative, sophisticated, and affordable experience. Owner Pamela Page has been in business since 2012 and draws inspiration from the excitement and joy that comes with bringing people together through food, family, and fun.
Her ideal client is someone who trusts her expertise and is grateful for her opinion, making the wedding planning process a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Page Designs & Events is the perfect choice for brides who want a personalized and stress-free wedding planning experience. Pamela’s clients should expect easy-going conversations, budget-friendly options, and high-priority responses to their needs. As Pamela puts it, “I’m there to help and ask for my advice, as well as opinions to make sure their day goes smoothly. Let us plan your Forever & Eva.”
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: SARAH ALLEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
SEE MORE ONLINE: NOWWEDDINGSMAGAZINE.COM
Amelia poses with Scooped Up’s Ice Cream Cart poolside at Derbès Mansion. Balloon decor from The Graceful Host Shop and bouquets by Nola Flora decorate the setting.
She is wearing a daring Radiant Taffeta mini dress, available at Pearl’s Place Bridal, features a plunging neckline and dramatic sleeves.
Hot pink satin heels with double rhinestone bows, available on Amazon*, add a pop of color to her look.
(inset) A modern, pink and white bridal shower invitation by L.Fontaine Design perfectly captures the event theme.
Keeping with the pink theme, Amelia is wearing bright neon Bali pink press-ons from Passport Polish. Fun pink cat eye heart sunglasses, available on Amazon*, add a playful touch. (this page + left) A stunning 3.04ct Oval Hidden Halo Solitaire Engagement Ring and 5 Stone Oval Morganite Ring and (left) a Graduated Diamond Tennis Necklace and Graduated Pearl Hoops, all from Brilliance in Diamonds, complete her look.
This retro two-tone mini cake by Gambino’s Bakery sits on a white marble cake stand from Glo Events A “Happily Ever After” Pink Neon Sign by The Britrio Store on Amazon* and balloon decor from The Graceful Host Shop complete the cake table.
(this page) The poolside gazebo at Derbès Mansion is the perfect spot for the bride’s table! Balloon garlands and a crepe paper fringe chandelier by The Graceful Host Shop set the mood.
(this page + left) On the table, True Value Rental’s Pink Sequin Linen adds sparkle to the setting.
It was love at first sight for Angie when she first encountered Chet at Katy Trail Icehouse in Dallas, Texas, while they were both out with a large group of mutual friends. The two were at opposite ends of the table. As luck would have it, Chet was in search of the chips and salsa that were fortuitously on Angie’s side of the table! He had no idea that when he found them, he’d also find his future wife!
THE WEDDING “We had the most perfect group of family and friends at our wedding,” says Angie. “We spent our first Christmas together in Rosemary Beach. In 2020, families weren't getting together to celebrate and when researching for a destination for the two of us, we stumbled upon Rosemary Beach. It quickly became a special place to us and the obvious destination for our wedding.”
The couple chose The Pearl Hotel for their destination wedding. The couple said their vows in a sun-kissed ceremony on the Havana Beach Rooftop Deck of the hotel with a reception overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.
“We loved that all our friends and family, most who were strangers at the time, walked away as great friends and still communicate to this day,” says Angie.
“One of our favorite parts was the time we had with just the two of us taking photos around the town with Andrew prior to the ceremony,” shares Angie. “Those moments truly captured the place we fell in love with.”
VENDOR CREDITS: CEREMONY + RECEPTION
LOCATION + CATERER: The Pearl Hotel | OFFICIANT:
Spike Minczeski | REHEARSAL: The Havana Beach Bar
| BRIDE’S GOWN: Grace Loves Lace | GROOM’S
ATTIRE: Suit Supply | PHOTOGRAPHY: Andrew Alwert
Studios | FLORIST + DECOR RENTALS: Showtime
Events | BAKERY: Sweetly Sisters | CEREMONY
MUSIC: Wedding Music Plus, Inc | RECEPTION
ENTERTAINMENT: DJ 30A | MAKEUP: Destin Mobile
Makeup Box | WEDDING PLANNER: Megan K Events |
JEWELER: Cartier | INVITATIONS: Karey Redick
EVENT PLANNERS + DESIGNERS
Chocolate Bunnie Events
Page Designs & Events
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Amin Russell Photography
Jessica The Photographer
Sarah Alleman Photography
FLORISTS
Nola Flora
FASHION
D&D Creations
Tuxedos to Geaux
BAKERIES
Gambino’s Bakery
Kimbla’s Cakes
CATERERS
12 Seasons Catering
Toulouse Gourmet Catering
DECOR + RENTALS
Glo Events
True Value Rental
VENUES:
Bourbon Orleans Hotel
Court of Two Sisters
Down the Hatch
Higgins Hotel
InterContinental New Orleans
The Cannery
The Moore
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
• A\,JM.LCO..1 • w...Ml111C'--""'•....v.,1 , ,._, , loo,,n•t'l/u,,dt,p...,b ._,._, ..._.w.-3� L-<i•OCll'fl·,r.,.� i._G,-"$S,-.l ._w.dd�""'t• , o.$ 11...ix • 1,IACO1
SlATlOl•Ji'.O'r' I S..,•lh•-0-• l lw,t......&� ...____Qept,C..di6£""""� s_11r....,...,,. ,_ s..t.,.c.flbM'rdfe,, -~· , ,......VouNot<tl ._...._ a__c.11cr•i>h)o ---._o.... •-- t..:DGC1 \_.LC,.!A.lCO�T HOW£QS&otco , (qr9111o,yl'.)roQ, i.,_8rid.al8ou� ...._A,ftefld4,,tJ�q1,1eti.\ lloo,tc,,,..._ ·--�,.....�....... � for �.....,Y l_fl.cept,,;w,C•tol#llp,e,c./ "'"' •--Del.WryNu "'-°""'
