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MAY+ JUNE 2022 EDITORIAL 9
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Tropical Romance Colorful wedding vibes at The Moore Venue STYLE FILE: Flirty, Fun Fashion
ARTICLES 26 Photography Matters Read this before you book your wedding photography 30
Photographer Spotlight: Amin Russell
32
Photographer Spotlight: Sarah Alleman
34
Photographer Spotlight: Jessica Burke
36
Designer Spotlight: Pia Gladys Peréy
REAL WEDDINGS 22
Meredith Little + Patrick Henning
42
Chelsea Borries + Taylor Hymel
46
Vanna Carawan + Brandon Cassimere
52
Morgan Daniels + Nicholas Algero
PHOTO CREDIT: Amin Russell Photography
may/june 2022
PUBLISHER
nowweddingmagazine.com
JESSICA BURKE JESSICA@THENOWBRIDE.COM
REAL WEDDINGS
Rena Sweeney CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dayna Dufrene ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
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.
SUSTAINABLE BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES BY PIA GLADYS PERÉY
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NOW Weddings Magazine Phone: 504-832-2775 Email: sales@thenowbride.com www.NOWWeddingMagazine.com NOW Weddings Magazine is published bi-monthly by New Orleans Weddings Magazine, Inc. Copyright 2022. 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, New Orleans 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
About The Cover PHOTOGRAPHER: Jessica Burke ON LOCATION: The Moore STYLED BY: Alchemy Events FLORALS: Berry Blossom Flowers
FASHION: John’s Tuxedos + Pearl’s Place HAIR: Jessica Jackson for Dazzle Doll MAKEUP: Chris Carter for Dazzle Doll MODELS: Allie Simoneaux + Jarrel Bowens
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NOW WEDDINGS
STYLE
tropical ROMANCE A FASHION + DECOR EDITORIAL
PHOTOGRAPHY Jessica Burke jessicathephotographer.com | CREATIVE DIRECTION Alchemy Events alchemyeventsnola.com | ON LOCATION The Moore themoorevenue.com | CAKE Kimbla’s Cakes kimblascakes.com | FASHION John’s Tuxedos + Suits johnstuxedos.com + Pearl’s Place pearlsplace.com | FLORALS Berry Blossom Flowers berryblossomflowers.com | HAIR Jessica Jackson for Dazzle Doll + MAKEUP Chris Carter for Dazzle Doll neworleansmakeupandhair.com | INVITATIONS Papel Custom Design papel.myportfolio.com | RENTALS True Value Rental truevaluerentalnola.com | MODELS: Jarrel Bowens + Allie Simoneaux N.O.W | NOWWeddingMagazine.com | 9
DETAILS (PREVIOUS PAGE) Allie is wearing a sleek and chic, curve-hugging gown with a structured bodice from Pearl’s Place. Jarrel is wearing a tan tuxedo with Ocean bowtie and pocket square accents from John’s Tuxedos. (THIS PAGE + OPPOSITE) Bright, tropical colors, clear acrylics and touches of gold bring this modern wedding vibe to life.
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Papel Custom Design created this modern, acrylic invitation with gold lettering and bright pink envelopes to tie in the tropical colors of the wedding.
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ABOUT THE VENUE The Moore is a modern event venue in Elmwood, Louisiana. In addition to a 5,100 sq ft ballroom, The Moore recently added a luxurious courtyard space with white stucco walls, a working fireplace and fountain.
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DETAILS For the ceremony, Berry Blossom Flowers decorated The Moore’s courtyard fireplace with lush, colorful blooms with tropical fruit as accents. True Value Rentals’ clear Napoleon chairs bring the acrylic motif to the ceremony setting.
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DETAILS (LEFT) Allie is wearing a silky, chic Charmeuse gown, available at Pearl’s Place, with a dramatic sleeve and deep-V neckline. A gold floral motif crow headpiece, also from Pearl’s Place and dainty organza floral earrings complete her look. (BELOW) Allie is wearing a Charmeuse CowlBack, Princess Line dress with a front slit in the color Atlantic Blue from Pearl’s Place.
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DETAILS
The tropical vibes carry inside to the reception table, here Alchemy Events designer Rena Sweeney, chose to mix a neon sign in hot pink lettering with colorful taper candles on True Value Rentals wooden farmhouse table that complements the rustic feel of The Moore’s ballroom fireplace. Berry Blossom Flowers created a lush tablescape filled with greenery and tropical blooms with fresh fruit as accents. Gold monstera leaf details, including acrylic drink stirrers and place cards tie in the modern, tropical theme.
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DETAILS (PREVIOUS PAGE, BELOW + RIGHT) Allie is wearing a silk strapless gown with dramatic detached puff sleeves, available at Pearl’s Place. Jarrel is wearing a slate blue tuxedo from John’s Tuxedos with Coral bow tie and pocket square. Kimbla’s Cakes crafted this 3-tier fondant watercolor cake with a sugar monsterra leaf and hibiscus motif. The cake sits atop True Value Rentals clear acrylic cake stand, filled to the brim with tropical fruit and fresh blooms. Fuchsia linen ties in the pink neon sign.
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DETAILS Allie is wearing a diamond white, Larissa satin strapless gown with a daringly high slit from Pearl’s Place. Jarrel sports a slate blue tuxedo with fuchsia bow tie and pocket square. Tropical Leaf Bonfolk socks, available at John’s Tuxedos, add a fun touch to his ensemble.
see more online:
NOWWEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM 20 | N.O.W | NOWWeddingMagazine.com
NOW WEDDINGS
STYLE
Flirty, Fun FASHION
2
Details you’ll love from the publisher’s desk. Click to Shop!
1
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photo: Magnolia West Photography
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1. Silky jersey, one-shoulder bridesmaid gown with high slit skirt and ruched bodice by Pia Gladys Peréy, Shop online: piagladysperey.com 2. Nola Couture Kingcake Yellow Sno ball Bow Tie, available at John’s Tuxedos, johnstuxedos.com 3. GIFIORE Vintage-look Cat Eye Heart Sunglasses, Shop online: amazon.com 4. LOVELEYI Matte Rhombic Jelly Purse, Shop online: amazon.com 5. ARQA Rhinestone Ankle Strap Satin Pumps, Shop online: amazon.com 6. Lola Earrings in light pink by Soli & Sun, Shop online: soliandsun.com *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
MEREDITH + PATRICK’S STORY “Patrick and I met at the University of Oklahoma where I was a Drama Major and Patrick was studying construction,” shares Meredith. “The two of us first came into contact when Patrick came to see a friend perform in a show that I was playing the main character in. It wouldn’t be till a full year later that we formally met and became friends. Over the years, we kept in contact while navigating school, then graduation and post grad careers.” One fateful evening in December 2017, the two happened to run into each other while out in Dallas. Both happened to be single at the time and made a date for dinner and drinks and haven’t been apart since. Patrick asked Meredith to marry him on April 8th of 2020. ”He had originally planned a romantic stroll through the Dallas Arboretum but when the world shut down, he had to become flexible,” says Meredith. “Instead, Patrick took me to White Rock Lake in Dallas for a picnic, with pizza, of course. He was so nervous that the sun had already set by the time he had worked up the courage to pop the question. I, of course, gave a teary eyed yes, in disbelief he had just proposed to me in the dark and while I was wearing none other than athleisure. We still laugh about it till this day. It was the most private and intimate moment of our lives.” 22 | N.O.W | NOWWeddingMagazine.com
NOW
real wedding
Meredith Little & Patrick Henning
I CAN’T HELP MYSELF AUGUST 20, 2021 | NEW ORLEANS, LA PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROCATO PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTIVE
see more>>> N.O.W | NOWWeddingMagazine.com | 23
WHY NEW ORLEANS “From the start,
we knew we wanted to get married in New Orleans,” says Meredith. “Patrick was born in Nola and I grew up in Shreveport. Having our wedding back at “home” was important. Knowing we had a copious amount of people attending our wedding who had not experienced the New Orleans we have come to love, we wanted to make sure everyone felt the heartbeat of the city. Getting married at St. Louis Cathedral was our way of paying tribute to the New Orleans history and Patrick’s family background. Once we left the church, we Second Lined through the Quarter. Our guests looked forward to this event the most. Once we arrived at the reception venue, one of my good friends surprised us with a billboard in front of The Civic.”
THE PARTY OF A LIFETIME ““Our
mission with our wedding was to make everyone feel like it was their big day too,” shares Meredith. “ We wanted everyone to feel special and leave the evening begging to keep the party going.” At the reception, the happy couple had a grand entrance on the Civic’s catwalk, complete with curtain rise and spotlight! After their first dance, they popped a bottle of champagne and then hit the dance floor with their guests until it was time for their second entrance of the evening. “Patrick changed into a gorgeous white tux jacket while I changed into a red sequin jumpsuit,” says Meredith. “We entered in through the stage trap door (smoke and all) to the Phunky Monkeys singing “I can’t Help Myself” by The Four Tops.” Meredith then joined the band on stage to perform “Let’s Hear it for the Boy” by Denice Williams, a surprise for both Patrick and the wedding guests. The reception ended with a balloon drop over the dance floor and a colorful confetti exit to the 1970’s Mustang Grabber convertible waiting to whisk the newlyweds away. ADDITIONAL VENDOR CREDITS: GETTING READY LOCATION: Le Pavillon Hotel | CEREMONY LOCATION: St. Louis Cathedral | OFFICIANT: Father Tony Rigoli | RECEPTION LOCATION: The Civic Theatre | REHEARSAL DINNER: Brennan’s | BRIDE’S GOWN: Sarah Seven, Lovely Bride (Dallas) | BRIDE’S RECEPTION JUMPSUIT: Nadine Merabi | BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS: Lady Pipa | MENSWEAR; Uncommon Man (Dallas) | PHTOGRAPHY: Brocato Photography Collective | VIDEO: Braniff Productions | FLORIST: Herbivore Floral Designs | CEREMONY MUSIC: Harry Hardin | RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: The Phunky Monkeys | TRANSPORTATION: Limousine Livery | HAIR + MAKEUP: Glam on Location, LLC | TRAVEL AGENT: Lea Cupples | WEDDING PLANNER: Mise En Place | Event Design: Cali Gabrielle | DECOR RENTALS: ELEMENT | JEWELER: Salles Jewelry | FAVORS: Christi Breithaupt + Lea Cupples | INVITATIONS: Scriptura NOLA | BALLOON DROP: NOLA Party Boutique | SECOND LINE BAND: Kinfolk Brass Band
See more from Meredith & Patrick’s wedding at: NOWWeddingMagazine.com
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FEATURED VENDOR CATERING 12 SEASONS CATERING 12seasonscatering.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY M A T T E R S WRITTEN BY: Sofie LeChat | FEATURED IMAGE: Amin Russell Photography YOUR WEDDING DAY WILL GO BY IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE. ALL THE months of planning will, in just a few short hours, be nothing more than a memory. It’s important to document your wedding day from the big “I do” to the smallest detail. Finding the right photographer for your wedding is important. Read that twice, then read on. Good professional photographers are not inexpensive and may be your biggest expense after your reception venue. However, unlike many of your other wedding purchases, photography has longevity. Good photographs will help you treasure and relive those special moments. Don’t entrust this once in a lifetime occasion to just anyone!
Browse through Instagram, blogs and websites to get a feel for the type of photography you like. Are you attracted to more posed portraits or do the candid photos catch your eye?
Ask any past couple and they’ll tell you that photography is the last thing you want to “cut corners on” for your big day.
Once you have a feel for your style preference, it is important you book a photographer whose portfolio shows work in that style. But here’s the caveat. You also need to consider if the wedding YOU’RE planning matches your preferred photographer’s style.
Rena Sweeney, owner and lead event planner of Alchemy Events, gives her clients this advice: “Photography is the only place I suggest NOT starting with the budget,” she says. “Spend some time discovering what style of photography you love and then research what photographers in your preferred style charge and make your choices from there. I’d much rather see my clients trim their budgets elsewhere than not have great photographs.”
“I see it happen all the time,” says Sweeney. “Clients fall in love with a photographer’s style, but the wedding they are planning is not a match. It’s not realistic to expect someone who specializes in bright and airy, outdoor, daytime weddings to deliver the same results for a nighttime, indoor wedding. The circumstances are completely different and the photos will not look the same, through no fault of the photographer.”
It’s important to find a photographer who specializes in weddings and has a beautiful portfolio. Wedding photographers have to be more than fine artists though. They have to manage wedding logistics and know the traditions and order of events. With experience comes knowledge. Quality wedding photographers know which shots are important and how to capture them. Find out how long your photographer has been photographing weddings and if your wedding involves cultural customs, be sure to make your photographer aware of these in advance.
Sarah Alleman of Sarah Alleman Photography advises couples to dig even deeper. “Look at editing styles,” she suggests. “And ask to see a few full galleries. Anyone can take a few epic photos but look at how they document the whole day.”
RESEARCH + BOOK EARLY.
Identify three to five photographers whose work appeals to you and make appointments to meet the photographers in person (or in a video chat) before you book. Here’s why…. continued>>>
The best photographers fill their calendars a year or more in advance, so start looking early.
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When you ask for complete wedding galleries, request to see weddings at your location (or one similar) that’s at roughly the same time your wedding will be so you can get a feel for what their work will look like.
PERSONALITY MATTERS.
Your photographer’s interpersonal skills are as important as their technical knowledge and years of experience. “Make sure that they understand and get your vision,” says Alleman. If you are uncomfortable with your photographer, or you’re just not on the same page, it will show in your pictures. Good rapport is key! As you interview your potentials, carefully look at their portfolio. If you make an emotional connection to a certain photographer’s images and you like their energy, then you have probably found your photographer. If you find yourself thinking, “I really wish they took more posed/candid photos,” or “gosh, they’re pushy” then it may be best to move on.
GET IT IN WRITING.
You should expect your photographer to provide detailed information. Most have contracts that can be sent to you for review. Read them and make sure you understand what you’re signing. “Ask lots of questions and get quotes in writing,” advises Sweeney. “These should include information about deposits, cancellations, refunds and turnaround time.” Ask for details about purchasing prints, proofs, reprints and digital files or negatives. Find out if you’re paying for time, prints or both. There are no wrong answers, but you should be aware of what you’re getting before you sign any contracts.
DON’T DELAY.
After interviewing the photographers on your list, it is important to secure your favorite with a retainer. Photographers cannot hold a date without a retainer and if you wait too long to make your decision, you could lose your first choice. Always get a contract from your agreed to and sign and return this with your retainer payment. This contract should include the pricing and what is included with your photography package. Detailed documentation will avoid future frustration!
MANAGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS. COVERAGE TIMES Ask your potential photographers how much time they’ll need to properly document your day and resist the urge to underestimate how long tasks will take so you can cut down coverage time. This never goes well.
PHOTO: SARAH ALLEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
“Remember everything takes time (walking, touching up your lipstick, etc) and no one enjoys feeling rushed,” says Alleman. “Also the organic moments can sometimes be better than the planned ones. I encourage my couples to look at the timeline as a way for us to make sure I know what is most important to them and we have ample time to capture everything.” In addition, those beautifully styled images of your invitations, rings and other details (like your dress!) take time to create. continued>>>
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PHOTO: AMIN RUSSELL PHOTOGRAPHY
On average, it can take up to an hour on the wedding day to style and photograph the type of ‘flatlay’ images you see all over Instagram and wedding blogs,” says Alleman. If that’s something that’s important to you, you’ll need to build time in for your photographer to create those for you or you’ll have to sacrifice other
coverage. One thing Alleman suggests never cutting time for is couple portraits. “You will never regret spending time with your spouse,” she says. “You might feel guilty leaving your guests but they want the best for you and these photos are so important. The day goes by so quickly, and you’ll be thankful for the photos after.” If you can do a First Look and build in time before your ceremony for couples photos, all the better! If not, take the time to do more than just one or two portraits after the ceremony. VENUE RESTRICTIONS Be sure you understand your venue’s photography restrictions. Many churches and synagogues do not allow flash photography and many do not permit the photographer to move around during the ceremony. A few don’t allow photography at all! Know what to expect.
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Your photographer may not be able to get all the photos on your wish list if they’re limited to staying at the back of the aisle for the entire ceremony. “OBVIOUS” QUESTIONS A typical assumption is that the person you meet with is the one who will be photographing your wedding. Never make assumptions! Always ask who your photographer will be. And while you’re at it, ask about backup plans. Obviously, no one ever plans to become sick or get in an accident, but your photographer should have a backup plan in the event that they can’t photograph your wedding. Ask what that backup plan is. There IS a correct answer here and it’s not “We’ll figure it out if we have to.” Read THAT twice. TURNAROUND TIME Every photographer has a different process for post production and editing. Photography is an art and the artists need time to complete their process. Some may have sneak peeks ready for you within a week of your wedding, while others may require two months (or more!) before you see a single photo. Know what to expect and try not to become impatient. Of course, you should expect to receive your photos when promised or at least receive communication from your photographer if there have been unexpected delays like family emergencies. continued>>>
HOW LONG DO POPULAR WEDDING PHOTO OPPS REALLY TAKE? It can be tempting, and quite frankly, easy to underestimate how long everything will take on your wedding day. With years of real life wedding day experience, Sarah Alleman created this guideline for her clients to have a realistic idea of how much time they should plan into their wedding day timelines. Details Photos + Finally Touches On Hair + Makeup 60 Min. Bridesmaids Party (PJ/Robe Pictures/Champagne Pop) 30 Min. Bride’ Dress On + Guys Details/Getting Ready 30-60 Min. PHOTO: SARAH ALLEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
Bridesmaids Reveal 10 Min. Father First Look 20 Min. First Look 30 Min. Wedding Party Portraits 30 Min. Family Portraits 30-50 Min. Couple Portraits 30 Min. Pick Up Time 30 Min. Before Ceremony (Dependent on traffic and locations)
NEGATIVE TALK Always ask if you receive the digital negatives from your photos. Some photographers include this in your package, others offer them at an additional cost and some do not offer them at all. Know your photographer’s policy. If you will receive digital files, ask your photographer where they recommend having them printed - not all photo printing companies are created equal. BALANCING ACT Most photographers require that your balance be paid in full prior to the wedding, usually several weeks before. This is completely normal and should be expected. If the thought of paying upfront before receiving anything makes you nervous, ask for past client references to call. If you’re nervous about the photographer taking your money and running, think twice about hiring that photographer. You should never hire someone you don’t trust. DETAILS, DETAILS. Other questions to ask include: How many photographs will I receive? Are there additional travel costs? What types of proofs will I receive - online or printed? What is your cost and policy for adding more time? How much are reprints? Do you have an assistant or second photographer that will be at my wedding? If not, how much is it to add one? Knowing what to expect can relieve a world of stress. Hire a seasoned professional whose work you love and enjoy your wedding day! N.O.W | NOWWeddingMagazine.com | 29
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PHOTOGRAPHER SPOTLIGHT: AMIN RUSSELL AMIN’S STYLE: CINEMATIC. BOLD. DRAMATIC. Amin Russell is a contemporary photographer servicing Greater New Orleans and across the country. With over 20 years of photography experience, Amin covers a variety of weddings, ready to capture timeless, breathtaking images of your special day. His passion and creativity have been praised by local publications, and his work photographing beautiful art pieces for clients has gained him recognition by clients and colleagues in the Professional Photographers of America.
CONNECT WITH AMIN AMINRUSSELL.COM | (504) 708-4534 INFO@AMINRUSSELL.COM FB + IG: @AMINRUSSELLPHOTOGRAPHY
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PHOTOGRAPHER SPOTLIGHT: SARAH ALLEMAN SARAH’S STYLE: TIMELESS. BRIGHT. ROMANTIC. Sarah Alleman specializes in elegant photography for weddings. “I look at a wedding as telling your story,” she shares. “I love making my clients feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera.” Sarah believes that the wedding day is bigger than a party. “It’s your history for the generations,” she says, noting that she and her husband still love looking at their wedding photos 15 years into their marriage. “I feel like each wedding should be one of kind and unique because we are all different.”
CONNECT WITH SARAH
SARAHALLEMANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM TEXT (225) 721-2382 | SARAHALLEMAN@GMAIL.COM FB: @SARAHALLEMANPHOTOGRAPHY IG: @SARAHALLEMAN
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PHOTOGRAPHER SPOTLIGHT: JESSICA BURKE JESSICA’S STYLE: ARTISTIC. VIBRANT. EDITORIAL. Jessica Burke is a photographer and artist based in South Louisiana. Jessica began her career in photography by immersing herself in the field working and studying under numerous professional photographers, including two Master Photographers. She holds a Bachelors of Studio Art and has an extensive background in both film and digital photography, as well as graphic design and studio art. Her philosophy in photographing a wedding is to capture the gamut of emotion throughout the day, documenting everything from the fine details to the big picture.
CONNECT WITH JESSICA
JESSICATHEPHOTOGRAPHER.COM TEXT (504) 914-7262 FB: @JESSICABURKEPHOTOGRAPHER IG: @JESSBURKE_PHOTOGRAPHER
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@jessBUrKe_photographer
jessicathephotographer
.com
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NOW WEDDINGS
STYLE
designer spotlight
PIA GLADYS PERÉY SUSTAINABLE + INCLUSIVE FASHION FOR BRIDESMAIDS
WRITTEN BY: Jessica Burke | INTERVIEW BY: Rena Sweeney | PHOTOS BY: Magnolia West Photography
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GONE ARE THE DAYS OF WORRYING ABOUT finding a dress that will look flattering on all the women in your wedding party. Designer Pia Gladys Peréy is on the wedding fashion scene and bringing options that are not only flattering on a variety of body types, but comfortable too! Oh and did we mention that the whole line is designed with sustainability in mind? NOW Creative Director Rena Sweeney chatted recently with Peréy about her brand new collection of wedding wear. “The brand was launched in 2007 at the MercedesBenz Australian Fashion Week,” shared Peréy. PGP quickly gained international acclaim and can now be found in boutiques and stores in 6 countries; Peréy’s designs have been repeatedly found on the red carpet at The Emmys and The Grammys and on runways across the United States, Paris and Australia. “We actually started as an evening wear brand,” said Peréy. “I noticed group orders of the same dress, so I was like ‘What’s going on?’ Apparently, there is a need for comfortable bridesmaids dresses that are not frumpy,” she noted, laughing. “You know how bridesmaids’ dresses were before,” Peréy said. “They made you ask ‘Are you really my continued>>> friend?”
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continued>>> “Our dresses are not the typical chiffon, satin fabric,” said Peréy. “We mainly use our signature Silky Jersey fabric with is very stretchy and very flowy. It feels like second skin.” The other fabrics that Peréy designs with are, mostly, stretchable. “It allows a bit of give so that women can move and eat,” she noted. Peréy also welcomes customization requests and will gladly add a high slit to a skirt, adjust how low a back drapes and more. “We have our own factory, so as long as the fabric will allow us to make it, we’ll make it.” As an added bonus, Peréy’s dresses come in 30 to 40 color options depending on the fabric. Now about the sustainability part. Ninety percent of Peréy’s dresses are machine washable and wrinkle-free. This means you not only avoid the expense of dry cleaning, but also means that less of the toxic chemicals used in the dry cleaning process enter the environment. Additionally, leftover fabric is donated to cut down on waste. But even more so, it’s the actual design work that adds to sustainability. Peréy designs her dresses to be classic, able to be worn more than once. “It’s really meant for the modern bridesmaid and something they can really wear again and not just collect dust in the closet,” said Peréy. Peréy’s turn-around time on dress orders ranges from 4 to 8 weeks, though she notes that she can accommodate rush orders as quickly as 2 weeks. “With the pandemic we did rescue a lot of weddings,” she noted of last minute orders for weddings. PGP isn’t just for bridesmaids though. The brand includes options for brides, mothers and junior bridesmaids and flower girls as well. “It’s for everyone,” said Peréy.
win ENTER TO
A GOWN FROM PIA GLADYS PERÉY AT THE NOW WEDDING EVENT
MAY 18, 2022
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See more from Pia Gladys Peréy’s Sustainable Bridesmaids Collection: NOWWeddingMagazine.com
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CHELSEA + TAYLOR’S STORY “We met playing in a social kickball league in New Orleans. We were placed on the same team, “You Can’t Kick with Us!”, and now we’re kicking it together for the rest of our lives!” says Chelsea. Taylor proposed at the couple’s home on December 22, 2020.
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“I was mismatched pajamas and deeply immersed in a Christmas movie marathon,” says Chelsea. “He came home from work and didn’t even say ‘Hello’ when he walked in. Then, I heard him strumming his guitar. He came in the living room playing and singing Adam Sandler’s ‘I Wanna Grow Old With You’ and then he got down on one knee.”
NOW
real wedding
Chelsea Borries & Taylor Hymel
JANUARY WEDDING JANUARY 8, 2022 | NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY SONGER PHOTOGRAPHY
see more>>> NOWWeddingMagazine.com | 43
Chelsea found her dream dress a year before her January 2022 wedding. “As soon as I walked out and stepped onto the platform to look at myself in the mirror, the Avett Brothers’ songs ’January Wedding’ came on, and I started crying,” shares Chelsea. “ I knew it was the one.”
FAVORITE MOMENTS Chelsea and
Taylor had two favorite moments from the wedding day. The first was their First Look. “We were so excited to see each other,” says Chelsea. “Taylor and I wrote our own vows. We said them for the first time during our First Look, and then again at the actual ceremony. We are so glad we “practiced” them and had that incredibly intimate and special moment.” The second was standing at the altar during their ceremony with their family and friends gathered around. “To have all the people we love in the same room supporting us was priceless,” Chelsea shares.
SPECIAL DETAILS
Taylor’s sister, Katie Hymel of Honeydoux Cafe, made the wedding cake and groom’s cake and Chelsea’s brother, Seth Borries, who won an episode of The History Channel’s “Forged in Fire” made the cake knives.
THE GROOM’S CAKE “It is a running
joke that Taylor loves hot sauce,” says Chelsea. “ The first item he ever moved into our first apartment together was a box of hot sauces. So when it came time to choose a cake, he wanted his own bottle! We also handed out Crystal’s hot sauces as favors.“
44 | N.O.W | NOWWeddingMagazine.com
VENDOR CREDITS: GETTING READY LOCATION: Terrell House Bed and Breakfast | CEREMONY + RECEPTION VENUE: Livaudais Hall | OFFICIANT: Greg Brousse | REHEARSAL DINNER: Lula Restaurant and Distillery | BRIDE’S GOWN: Pronovias, Bridal Formal and Boutique | BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS: JJ’s House | MENSWEAR: Tuxedos to Geaux | PHOTOGRAPHY: Emily Songer | BAKERY: Honeydoux Cafe+Bakery | FLORIST: Pick A Petal | ENTERTAINMENT: Toast Entertainment | TRANSPORTATION: Nicoll’s Limousine Service | HAIR + MAKEUP: Alkemy Salon | TRAVEL AGENT: Rachelle, Marvelous Mouse Travels | WEDDING PLANNER: Ashley Cash, The Graceful Host | CANDLE + DECOR RENTALS: Luminous Events | CATERER: George Becnel | JEWELER: Ramsey’s | FAVORS: Koozies from Totally Wedding Koozies + Crystal Hot Sauce | INVITATIONS: Roseville Designs | CUSTOM GUEST BOOK PAINTING: Simon of New Orleans
See more from Chelsea & Taylor’s wedding at: NOWWeddingMagazine.com
NOWWeddingMagazine.com | 45
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VANNA + BRANDON’S STORY “We met at Black Walnut Café in the middle of the week at Happy Hour, just a friendly interaction at the bar,” shares Vanna. Their first date was a week and a half later at the Four Seasons Hotel. “We knew we wanted to get married early on into our relationship, and we discussed the proposal together and picked out an engagement ring together,” says Vanna. “Brandon completely surprised me,” she says. “He proposed in his apartment on a Tuesday afternoon. I had just come over after work and was actually fussing because of a frustration that afternoon at work. Brandon kept trying to ask me questions and I kept cutting him off, even to say ‘Hold on, let me just send this last email!’ and I had no idea he was trying to propose! We still laugh about it today!”
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real wedding
Vanna Carawan & Brandon Cassimere
NEW YEAR’S EVE NUPTIALS DECEMBER 31, 2021 | NEW ORLEANS, LA PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL CASWELL PHOTOGRAPHY
see more>>> NOWWeddingMagazine.com | 47
THE ENGAGEMENT RING Vanna and Brandon went ring
shopping together and she picked out 3 designs for him to choose from. "Grey is my absolute favorite color, and I found a jeweler, Kristin Coffin, who specializes in different colored stones as well as conflict free!" says Vanna. "It was the perfect choice because she was able to capture my antique/vintage style with a beautiful grey stone, set in a warm rose gold setting!"
WHY NEW YEAR'S IN NEW ORLEANS " While this
technically was a destination wedding, this was home for us!" says Vanna. Brandon hails from Plaisance, Louisiana and attended Southern University, and Vanna attended LSU and Southern University. "We are rooted and share a love for Louisiana." she shares. "We chose New Year’s Eve to have a fun and party filled evening, but also will enjoy celebrating this date each year as our anniversary will be a worldwide celebration ringing in the New Year." Year. "Our experience was so fun and easy. This wedding was a dream come true and we look forward to celebrating a lifetime in New Orleans as we return each year, knowing every time we visit we’ll reminisce on great memories and add new ones with our families."
THE FIRST DANCE "We chose Eric Benet and Tamia's 'Spend
My Life With You'" says Vanna. "I’ve always felt this song is cliché, but this song completely embodies Black Love and this is why we chose it; very timeless and the lyrics are perfect for a first dance."
48 | N.O.W | NOWWeddingMagazine.com
VENDOR CREDITS: VENUE, CATERING + WEDDING CAKE: The Roosevelt New Orleans | OFFICIANT: Pastor Nicholas Thomas | REHEARSAL DINNER: Court of Two Sisters | BRIDE’S GOWNS: David’s Bridal + Vera Wang | MENSWEAR: Jos. A. Bank | PHOTOGRAPHY: Michael Caswell | VIDEO: NOLA Toast | FLORIST + CANDLE DECOR: Beth’s Flowers | RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: All For One Brass Band | HAIR + MAKEUP: Flawless Bride | JEWELRY: Kristin Coffin and Tiffany + Co. | INVITATIONS: Zazzle
See more from Vanna & Brandon’s wedding at: NOWWeddingMagazine.com
NOWWeddingMagazine.com | 49
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MORGAN + NICHOLAS’ STORY “Nick and I matched on Tinder in August 2019,” says Morgan. “Nick had recently graduated law school and moved to Lake Charles, Louisiana for work. I have lived in Lake Charles most of my life and felt like I knew everyone that was already in the dating pool. hen Nick and I matched on Tinder, I was surprised that we didn’t already know each other.“ The two met for a few beers at a local brewery and hit it off immediately. “On our first date we talked for hours,” shares Morgan. “ It seemed like time generously paused just for us and nothing else mattered in the world. Our date lasted 4 hours but it felt like it had only been 4 minutes.” After six months of dating, they moved in together and soon found themselves not only quarantined for the pandemic but also going through two major hurricanes and an ice storm. “That whole year was hard, but it taught me that I have an equal, a partner, someone that sticks by me,” says Morgan. “For me, it was even easier to love Nick because of adversity. I realized that for the rest of our lives, no matter what life throws at us we’ll tackle it and get through it together.”
52 | N.O.W | NOWWeddingMagazine.com
At the end of 2020, a year and a half after their first date, Nick proposed to Morgan at the very spot where they first met and time stood still. She said “Yes.”
NOW
real wedding
Morgan Daniels & Nicholas Algero
WHEN TIME STOOD STILL DECEMBER 4, 2021 | NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN COVELLI PHOTOGRAPHY
see more>>> NOWWeddingMagazine.com | 53
THE CEREMONY “We knew we wanted
to have an intimate wedding and kept our guest list to family and close friends only,” says Morgan. “It was very important for us to include our family members in any way possible. My cousins were the flower girls, my brother and Nick’s brother were one of the groomsmen, all three of Nick’s sisters were bridesmaids and several relatives and godparents participated in the ceremony. Family means everything to us and we are grateful to be able to include everyone.” The couple chose Holy Name of Jesus Church where Nick was both baptized and confirmed to celebrate their vows. “Seeing our blended families of all different religions come together to celebrate love is a truly humbling experience,” Morgan shares. “People put aside their differences for us and it means the world.”
THE PARTY The reception took place at Terrell House, the same location where Morgan got ready for the wedding and the couple did their First Look.”
The wedding cake was a three-tier “Naked Cake” by Gambino’s Bakery, elegantly accented with ivory roses. At the end of the evening, the wedding guests showered the newlyweds with confetti for their grand exit.
ADDITIONAL VENDOR CREDITS: GETTING READY + RECEPTION LOCATION, FLORALS, DECOR + CATERING: Terrell House Bed and Breakfast | CEREMONY: Holy Name of Jesus Church | OFFICIANT: Father Eddie Gros | BRIDE’S GOWN: Maggie Sottero, Pearl’s Place | BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS: Jenny Yoo, Bhldn | MENSWEAR: Jos. A. Bank | GROOM’S CAKE: Haydel’s Bakery | RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: Le Bon Temps | TRANSPORTATION: American Luxury Limousines | HAIR + MAKEUP: Faces of Virtue | TRAVEL AGENT: Tara Jones, Cupcake Castles Travel | INVITATIONS: Shop Aurea
54 | N.O.W | NOWWeddingMagazine.com
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See more from Morgan & Nicholas’ wedding at: NOWWeddingMagazine.com
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