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OHIO BRIDES
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Congratulations on your engagement! Planning your wedding should be one of most exciting times in your life. There are many sources that can help you plan, stay on track and o¼er you options to accommodate your budget. Utilizing these resources is one of the best things you can do as you prepare for the “Big Day.”
View the vendors in this magazine on
OhioBridalExpos.com
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER
@ohiobridalshows
Ohio Brides ANNUAL EDITION 2010 VOLUME TWO
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Claiborne Productions would like to invite you to any one of our “Ohio Bridal Expos.” With over 20 years in producing expos, we o¼er brides and grooms a comprehensive one-on-one, face-to-face event with local wedding professionals. All aspects of wedding planning are represented, from reception sites, gowns, tuxedos, health, beauty, invitations, flowers, catering, cake, music, favors, photography, videography, limousines and the long awaited honeymoon, the expo o¼ers it all in one location. Our Ohio Bridal Expos will allow you to taste samples, get ideas, utilize discounts & specials and most importantly meet the people who you will be working with to help you plan your wedding. If you need to plan your entire wedding or are in need of just one particular wedding service, then our expo is the perfect place to take the time to talk to the professionals and get your questions answered. This magazine, Ohio Brides, is an extension of our expos. Ohio Brides magazine represents local wedding professionals that attend our bridal expos. In addition, the magazine provides great articles, photographs and “Local Wedding” features of real brides and grooms in your city. Don’t miss our beautiful wedding cake, flower and gown photos. Our website, OhioBridalExpos.com, o¼ers additional information on local wedding professionals with links to their websites. Be sure to also visit BridalBlings.com for special coupons and discount o¼ers. We wish you the best in your upcoming marriage.
WEDDING PROFESSIONALS: If you are a wedding professional in the Columbus, Cincinnati or Dayton area, Ohio Bridal Expos provides various options for marketing your services including a network of wedding websites, program guides and expos. Ohio Brides is published annually. Reproduction of any part of this publication without express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The information in the publication is believed to be accurate and the publisher will not be held responsible for errors or omissions. Ohio Bridal Expos will not be held liable for the quality of goods and services provided by its advertisers. Copyright 2010 Ohio Bridal Expos. All Rights Reserved.
Happy Planning! Tracy Claiborne
CONTACT INFO: Claiborne Productions, P.O. Box 587, Springboro, Ohio 45066, 937-748-0247, info@claiborneproductions.com
OHIO BRIDES
PUBLISHER Tracy Claiborne ADVERTISING & ACCOUNTS Kim Westerkamp DESIGN Jennifer Gleason COVER IMAGE Allure Bridals
TA BL E OF C O N T E N T S
What’s Inside... 18
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BRIDAL SHOWS
CAKE PLEASE...
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2010 ohio bridal expos
the creative nature of cakes cakes
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HEALTH & BEAUTY the bride’s guide to beautification getting fit for your wedding
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WEDDING ATTIRE
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your shoes look fabulous gowns
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WEDDING PLANNING choosing a wedding planner
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SAY CHEESE choosing your photographer wisely
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WEDDING FUN & FANCY floral designs lets decorate
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OHIO WEDDINGS Krista and Eric
top travel destinations the four c’s
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Amiee and Christian
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Catie and Jim
RECEPTIONS
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VIDEOGRAPHY
your wedding reception
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RENTALS wedding tent styles
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look great in your video
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RELAX AND HAVE FUN
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the right note
TIME TO EAT selecting the right caterer
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ADVERTISER INDEX
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BRIDAL SHOWS
Ohio bridal expos
• Dayton Bridal Expo – Winter Show
PHOTO BY IDEAL IMAGES
Dayton Convention Center > January 9 & 10, 2010
• Columbus Premier Bridal Expo Aladdin Shrine Center > January 31, 2010
• Columbus Bridal Show
Columbus Convention Center Battelle Grand > February 28, 2010
• Cincinnati’s Premier Bridal Expo
Manor House in Mason, Ohio > March 7, 2010
• Dayton’s Premier Bridal Expo Dayton Marriott > April 18, 2010
• Dayton Bridal Expo – Summer Show Dayton Convention Center > August 8, 2010
• Columbus’ Premier Bridal Expo Aladdin Shrine Center > August 22, 2010
• Cincinnati’s Premier Bridal Expo Manor House in Mason, Ohio > August, 2010
• Dayton’s Premier Bridal Expo Dayton Marriott > October, 2010
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H E A LT H , BE A U T Y & F I T N E S S
The bride’s guide to beautification 9-12 MONTHS AWAY
1 WEEK AWAY
Create your wedding beauty budget.
Confirm all beauty appointments.
Start a beauty diary that contains notes and
Get brows, bikini line, etc. waxed.
photos to provide inspiration. Request price lists from salons who o¼er hair
and/or makeup to start narrowing your choices.
If you're thinking of a new haircut or color,
now's the time to try it all out.
5-8 MONTHS AWAY Schedule trial hair and makeup runs. If
you plan to do your own makeup, start playing with di¼erent colors, looks, and styles.
Test-drive any skin treatments to make sure
you don't have a bad reaction.
2-4 M ONTHS AWAY Finalize your hair and makeup appointments.
YOUR WEDDING DAY Shower
4-5 hours before your call time. Some salons request you don’t wash your hair to making styling easier.
Apply self-tanner or schedule a professional
Get your hair styled three hours before call
Talk
Start applying makeup, or having it applied,
Pack
Mist
Save
Pack
application for the day or two before.
to your bridesmaids about bringing hairpieces or accessories to the wedding site, so you have one less worry that day. your wedding day bag - include everything you might possibly need. time by prepaying for any beauty services scheduled for the day of your wedding.
Draw up concise directions for your beauty
team. List your contact information and their arrival times.
time.
at least one to two hours before the ceremony.
yourself lightly with your favorite perfume. a small clutch with breath mints, blotting papers, extra hairpins, nail file, lipstick, clear gloss, and a mini Kleenex.
Relax, smile, and enjoy!
Schedule manicures and/or pedicures for the
day before wedding.
the
Visit a dermatologist if needed.
1 MONTH AWAY Get a trim. Touch up your roots. Begin an optional at-home tooth whitening
treatment, or schedule a professional one. Get
your final facial to ensure maximum glow for your wedding.
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H E A LT H , BE A U T Y & F I T N E S S
Getting fit for your wedding BY MELISSA MATSON
There are so many things that you have to organize and prepare for when planning your wedding. The flowers, the guest list, the photographer, the dress – and most importantly, you! It is one of the most important days in your life and you want to look amazing in your dress (and out of it)! Here are some tips to help you prepare for all the eyes being focused directly on you! Start by planning ahead. Don’t wait until 4 weeks before your wedding and think that you will be able to drop a few sizes. If you start eating right and exercising now, your results will be more beautiful and last longer! Set achievable goals for yourself. If you only have 6 months before your wedding, make sure the goals you are setting are realistic. A Fitness Coach can help guide you and customize a plan for you that will help you reach your goals. Get a workout buddy. Statistics show that people who exercise with a friend are more successful, and more committed to working out consistently. Plus – it is so much more fun! Drink – water, that is. Get rid of the Coke and other sugar-loaded drinks and start drinking water. Try to get in a minimum of 8 glasses per day. If you are doing a tough workout, you will need more than 8 glasses. Feeling a little bloated? Add some lemon to your water. It will help to flush you out! Make exercising a priority and stop making excuses! We all have a lot to do, but if you don’t make
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PHOTO BY CHILDERS PHOTOGRAPHY
this a priority, something will always get in the way. Let the people around you know what you are doing too. They can help support you! Eat the right foods at the right times. Your diet will account for nearly 80% of your success with your fitness plan. Start “eating to live” and not “living to eat”. If you need help figuring out what to eat and how much to eat, a Nutritionist can help. Join Keep It Tight Fitness. We will be the first ones to tell you that getting fit is not an easy task. However, when you join Keep It Tight Fitness, you will have all the tools you need, in order to walk down that aisle looking your best, at your fingertips. Our Fitness Coaches and Nutritionists can help you by customizing an exercise and eating plan to ensure you reach your goals. Do your bridesmaids need a little help too? Keep It Tight Fitness can set up Bridal Boot Camps for you AND all your maids! Call 513-683-9200 for details. For more information about how we can help you, check out our website at keepittightfitness.com. Try out your first class FREE and find out what it means to Keep It Tight!
WEDDING PLANNING
Choosing a wedding planner PHOTO BY STUDIO FOTO21
You may be ultra busy. You may accept that you're not the most organized person in the world. You may simply want to avoid stress. Or, you may be planning a wedding so large that no single person can pull it oÂź unaided. Whatever the reasons, a professional wedding planner is oÂŞen a very wise choice. Note, the word 'professional'. That doesn't mean your mother or sister or good friend, no matter how skilled they may be. Individuals - variously called Bridal Consultants or Wedding Planners, or other terms - do this for a living. Many get awards for doing it well. They know what needs to be done, whom to contact and how to organize all the elements of a wedding while keeping their (and your) sanity. They'll discuss their services and fees in a calm, professional way and try to give you a realistic picture of what to expect. At the same time, they can help you maintain enthusiasm for a project that is both highly personal and emotional, as well as being full of possible practical pitfalls.
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They know what can go wrong when you've set a specific date and the wedding or reception venue or caterer suddenly becomes unavailable. They know how to react in order to keep things on track. Wedding planners have many contacts throughout the business community. Those long-term relationships help you get good deals, while helping ensure that commitments are kept. When they book a caterer, for example, the caterer will oªen be more inclined to keep a promise than they otherwise might. Aªer all, you are only one client. But their livelihood depends in part on keeping the wedding planner happy in the future. The same is true for vendors responsible for the wedding gown and bridesmaid dresses, as well as clothing for the groom's side. It's true of printers who take care of invitations. It's true of all the other things that lead up to your big day. Wedding planners know whom to contact and how to deal with them. Then they contact and deal with them, not you. A wedding planner may take on the whole e¼ort, or only a part. They may subcontract some aspects. They may rely on you and your friends or family to take on certain things. The arrangements di¼er from wedding to PHOTO BY 808 STUDIOS wedding. So, do the fees, naturally. Since their role can be so critical to the success of your special event, there are a few questions you'll want to ask. Don't be shy or nervous. Like any professional, they expect to have to demonstrate their experience and ability. At the same time, as with any business arrangement, courtesy is expected on both sides. You're interviewing a prospective guide, not a servant. CONTINUED » OHIO BRIDES
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. ..CHOOSING A WEDDING PLANNER - continued
You'll want to know: 1 How long have you been in business? 2 What size of weddings do you typically plan? 3 Do you work on more than one at a time? How many right now? 4 Can you provide some references I could contact? 5 What are your fees? What do they cover? 6 What should I expect over the next month/six months/year leading up to the big day? 7 When I need to get in touch, how long is it normal to wait for a reply? How quickly am I expected to return emails or phone calls? 8 What happens the day before the wedding and on the big day? What about the day aÂŞer when there are clean up or post-wedding tasks to do? Many more questions may occur to you to ask. So long as you are respectful and patient any wedding planner should be happy to entertain them. Keep in mind, though, that they have other clients (hopefully, since it's better for you). Even hiring a wedding planner takes some planning and investigation. Be patient and respectful with yourself as well.
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W E D D I N G F U N & FA N C Y
Floral Designs by Gri½ns Floral & Event Design WWW.COLUMBUSWEDDINGFLOWERS.COM •
877-843-8435
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The event design, floral, lighting, and linens for this special event that took place at The Venue at Smith Brothers in downtown Columbus OH, was completed by Gri½n’s Floral & Event Design. Photography is compliments of Chantel Stone Photography.
The event design, floral, lighting, and invitations for this special event that took place at the Columbus Athenaeum in downtown Columbus, OH, was completed by Gri½n’s Floral & Event Design. Photography is compliments of BCR Studios.
A timeless bouquet of Quicksand, Vendella and Skyline Roses with Yellow Lilac make an especially romantic bridal bouquet.
Floral Designs by Fresh French Floral Boutique WWW.FRESHFRENCHFLORAL.COM •
614-487-9619
For the modern bride a cluster of simple yet dramatic Mini Calla Lilies with exposed stems.
A wispy cascade spills over with flowers of Double White Lisianthus, White Limonium and Greenery for a very luxurious look.
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W E D D I N G F U N & FA N C Y
Let’s decorate Many aspects of planning a wedding are not a lot of fun. Luckily, others more than make up for the unpleasant parts. Wedding decorations is a prime example. Choosing them is one of the most delightful aspects of wedding planning. Favors, flowers, centerpieces and even the tablecloths can be a joy to review and select. Imagine you've planned your wedding and reception around a beach theme. You can select starfish-shaped placecard holders, flip flop keychain favors and tons more great things to flesh out your theme. You can carry that theme forward in many other ways. Rather than just select nice flowers that happen to be in season, go for a species that specifically evokes the beach. That can be anything from a delicate hibiscus or the Japanese Sweetbriar that blooms along the beaches of Hokkaido. Red with a sweet scent, they make a perfect choice.
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PHOTO BY CHILDERS PHOTOGRAPHY
Or, you may have planned a Las Vegas wedding. You'll find chocolate dice favors are perfect for the bowls on the guests' tables. There are no shortage of desert plants and flowers from the area, either. Everything from the pink Beavertail cactus flower to the yellow Desert Sunflower can liven up the room. Centerpieces open still another vista of choices for decorations. Flowers are a popular option. A bouquet of daisies is great for a summer theme. A vase filled with roses can complement your color scheme, since they're available in white, red, pink or yellow. But a floral display is not the only possibility. Ice sculpture make for the perfect centerpiece for a winter theme wedding. It can get expensive, so you can limit this to the wedding couple's table. Or, you can have a small sand castle in the middle to go with your beach-oriented wedding favors. There are hundreds more areas where wedding decorations can add an even greater upliªing spirit to an already joyous occasion. Let your creativity flow to the maximum for the big day. You deserve the reward aªer all the hard work in other areas of wedding planning.
Top 10 honeymoon destinations 1 Hawaii 2 Mexico 3 Jamaica 4 St. Lucia 5 Bahamas 6 Dominican Republic 7 Tahiti 8 Fiji 9 Antigua 10 Italy
Why you should use Heritage Travel • Heritage Travel does not charge for their honeymoon consultation. That means you get the benefit of their 30+ years of honeymoon and destination planning experience at no extra cost. • Many websites and brochures can be biased. Since Heritage Travel’s agents have been to many of the destinations and resorts that you are considering, they can provide you photos and personal experiences, as well as those shared from their other honeymooners. • The honeymoon planning does not end when you book the trip. Heritage Travel has personal relationships with General Managers and resort sta¼ to ensure that you have a smooth and care-free honeymoon. • Not all resorts are created equal. Heritage Travel agents can discern the di¼erence between a low price and a good value. • You do not have to wait to book at the last minute to ensure you are getting the best price. Even aªer you have booked your honeymoon, Heritage Travel will keep an eye out for better rates.
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The four C’s The quality of a diamond has nothing to do with size or color alone. It has everything to do with the 4Cs. CUT: Many people confuse cut with shape. A diamond’s cut is what gives it its fire and sparkle. When cut to good proportions, the diamond is better able to handle light. COLOR: The best color for a diamond is no color. This allows white light to pass e¼ortlessly through it and be dispersed as rainbows of color. CLARITY: Most diamonds contain very tiny natural birthmarks. However, the fewer and smaller these inclusions are, the less likely it is that they will interfere with the passage of light through the diamond. CA≤T-WEIGHT: This is the weight of the diamond measured in carats. One carat is divided into 100 points. Carat weight is the easiest to determine, but two diamonds of equal weight can have very unequal value. Fine quality can be found in diamonds of all shapes and sizes.
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RECEPTIONS
Your wedding reception PHOTO BY CHILDERS PHOTOGRAPHY
Pick a date as far in advance as possible. The longer you have to plan the less likely you are to go insane before the big day. You'll have a better chance of getting the caterer or photographer you want. You'll be better positioned to lock down the right flowers and favors. Also, keep in mind that costs vary considerably from season to season and day of the week. Most weddings take place between May and September. Booking o¼-season saves you money on the ceremony, the reception hall, CONTINUED » 18
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PHOTO OF MANOR HOUSE BANQUET CENTER
..YOUR WEDDING RECEPTION - continued airline tickets and much more. Saturdays are the most popular day, so picking a day in the middle of the week will also save you money. Most guests will take a day o¼ of work, or at least be able to make a late aªernoon or early evening reception. What sort of reception area you seek depends, of course, on how many guests you plan for and where they're located. Some couples do just fine with a few guests gathered at the house of a friend or relatives. Others will want that hall that accommodates 1,000. Some won't be satisfied with anything less than the best hotel in New York or Las Vegas. That choice is more than just a matter of money, though. Reception halls do typically charge by the head, especially if catering is part of the deal. But the larger the reception, the longer in advance it's necessary to book. With larger receptions the decorations take longer, the food preparation e¼ort scales up and transportation and parking can become more complicated. Naturally, you'll need to contact the photographer, too. Most good ones will book as much as a year in advance. Some, two years. So, unless you plan to have your cousin take
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a few snapshots, you'll need to make arrangements. Allocate the budget early, since many will want a deposit. Have a backup plan as much as possible. Mistakes do happen and sometimes a venue may slip up on your date. More oªen, though still rare, a caterer may find themselves backed up and unable to come through for you. Accidents happen and a photographer may be unable to show. These things are unlikely, but they're su½ciently important that it helps to have some alternatives. You won't generally want to a¼ord to double book another venue. But give some thought to what you would do if the reception hall became unavailable two weeks before the wedding. It's not unknown, for example, for roofs to collapse from heavy snows right before a winter wedding reception is scheduled. Ditto with the caterer, photographer and other important aspects of the reception. Since weddings do sometimes get called o¼, some professionals may be available on short notice. Investigate and have some phone numbers at your fingertips. Good preparation decreases stress. Part of that is having a sound plan that incorporates contingencies. That way your reception will be super, rather than just supper.
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“
A happy wedlock is a long falling in love. -Theodore Parker
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”
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R E N TA L S
Wedding tent styles
PHOTOS BY MJDECORATIONS
T≤DITIONAL F≤ME TENT • Most widely utilized tent style for backyard installations • Free standing structure with no interior support poles • Frame Tents can be joined together to facilitate unusual tent configurations
HIGH PEAKED F≤ME TENT • Excellent style of tent for small upscale function • Free standing structure with no interior support poles • Visually striking sculptured tent top both from an interior and exterior perspective
T≤DITIONAL POLE TENTS • The most cost e¼ective tenting alternative & can be quickly erected • Pole Tents are not recommended for ceremonies as centre poles can obstruct views • Interior poles throughout tent
HIGH PEAKED TENSION TENTS • The tent best suited for weddings or backyard functions • Visually striking sculptured tent top both from an interior and exterior perspective 24
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TIME TO EAT
Selecting the right caterer
The success of your reception can largely hinge on having the right food, beverage, table settings and serving sta¼. In short, good catering is key. Tactful questions to the potential caterer should never be resisted or generate hostility. If they do, that's a good sign to move on to the next candidate. Here are some items that should be covered: Cost and scheduling are the first considerations. The professional selected will have to be able to do the job when you need and within your budget. It isn't necessary to have an exact date and total cost for the first interview. But at least the month the wedding is to be held is important. Good caterers oªen book up months in advance. Having a specific date is always preferable. Covering cost is critical. It's important to be thorough and detailed. The level of detail need not be granular during the first conversation. An overall estimate of the number of guests and the type of food and beverage desired will be enough to get a rough estimate. That will tell you if you want to continue the conversation. List as much as possible and review the details when you've narrowed down the choice of caterer to 1-3 companies. Be sure to ask about things like whether linens are included. Find out how much it costs (and how long is 26
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required) for pre-set up and post-reception clean-up. Ask how many sta¼ people the cost includes. Compare the cost of sitdown meals with a bu¼et. References are important and you should make the e¼ort to ask for and actually talk to some provided by each candidate caterer. Ask whether they're licensed and bonded. Once you reach the stage of making a final selection, be sure to have a written contract. Most caterers will use one for all engagements. Read it carefully, including the (sometimes boring) fine print. Here you'll find out about any 'extras' that can cost you greatly. Remember: everything is negotiable.
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CAKE PLEASE...
The creative nature of cake PHOTO BY BABCOCK STUDIO
There are many tasks in wedding planning that provide a chance to exercise creativity. Decorations, music, favors and more let the wedding planner show her stu¼. But the wedding cake, literally and metaphorically, tops them all. Much of that creativity comes, of course, from the wedding cake caterer. But the wedding planner can have a lot of input to the process. Just as a builder may exhibit many innovations, it is still the architect who creates the overall design. When planning your wedding, and the wedding cake in particular, it is possible to delegate that responsibility entirely. But then you get what you get. Sometimes that's good. Not everyone's expertise is in that area. But providing input into what you like will help increase the odds of getting what you want. Many designs start from the traditional recessed stacked circular layers. Even within that constraint there are lots of options. A cherry frosting shaped like ribbons and decorated with multi-colored edible confetti can display just the right touch of festiveness. Or, a delicate white, with faux-roses sprouting from the rim at each level, can project the perfect air of love. Others break the mold right from the start. A large single-layer cake can easily provide a piece to a dozen or more guests. Restricting the design to this level doesn't unduly restrict the design choices, though. A strawberry frosted heart-shape can be just the thing to symbolize the love that is formalized on this day. 28
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A large cube, covered with candy flowers and wrapped with a frosting bow to resemble a giª is another perfect creation. Any of these designs can be topped with the traditional bride and groom figures. The placement doesn't have to be at the very pinnacle, though, as in traditional designs. On the 'giª' design, the couple can easily be nestled in the bow, as if enjoying their honeymoon. They can be leaning back on a 'rock' and kissing on the heart-shaped option. Even on the standard circular layers an alternative placement can make for a great, well, alternative. They might be jointly climbing to the top like mountain climbers, secured to one another with the safety ropes of mutual commitment. A design can be fun or serious, romantic or playful. Aªer all, the marriage will hopefully incorporate all these aspects and more. Why shouldn't the cake? One thing that any good wedding cake will have for sure, though, is this: it will be unique. Just like the couple getting married.
PHOTO BY CHILDERS PHOTOGRAPHY
Make a statement with this unforgettable cake decorated with a stylish and artistic pattern and ornamented with handmade toppers.
This four tier cake is adorned with black satin ribbon and an elegant accent of alternating black scroll work.
A fun and stylish cake, adorned with handmade fondant owers.
The Cakery www.thecakerydayton.com DAYTON, OHIO
937-258-2320 OHIO BRIDES
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CAKE PLEASE...
A three-tier stacked fondant covered wedding cake features white satin ribbon and green hydrangeas. Beautiful in the fall.
A three-tier square cake, featuring our signature buttercream icing. The cherry tree design is created from chocolate fondant and royal icing cherry blossoms. Perfect for a stylish spring wedding!
A cake featuring one of our theme designs perfect for the “beach themed� wedding. This three-tier fondant covered cake is accented with a fondant ribbon and gumpaste sea shells.
Platinum Parties & Cake Design www.platinumcakedesign.com DAYTON, OHIO
937-409-3640
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Match your dress pattern or invitation. Choose from an all over design, sporadic placement or cascading down one side. The small cake was for the bride and was gluten free.
Choose diÂźerent designs per tier to have a fun but elegant design. Add dragees or crystals to add a little glitz. Add ribbon to tie in your wedding colors.
Choose from a wide variety of elegant scroll patterns. This bride chose to add a simple bead border on each tier, pearlized spray for a touch of shimmer and their monogram on the top tier.
Alice’s Piece of Cake www.alicespieceofcake.com COLUMBUS, OHIO & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES
740-917-9031 OHIO BRIDES
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WEDDING ATTIRE
Your shoes look fabulous! PHOTO BY BABCOCK STUDIO
Wouldn't you love to hear the title as a compliment at your wedding? With all the planning you have to do, selecting wedding shoes may not be at the top of the list. Still, you can hear those 'oohs', and 'awws' without breaking your bank account or having a nervous breakdown. How? By realizing that there are so many choices so close at hand you can hardly go wrong. You already have a look you like for formal occasions. You may be the high heel type. When you get dressed up for an evening out, you naturally slip into those stilettos and oÂź you go. Or, you may be the casual type who still looks for style. A low heel can accomplish that easily, thanks to the hundreds of options available. Consider the mules you bought last year and remember how comfortable and stylish they were. Remember the compliments on those you got then? The same can work for your bridal shoes. Or, you might have bought the cutest pair of pumps and worn them until they wore CONTINUED Âť
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out. Go another round in the same category, but this time applied to wedding shoes. A winner every time. Planning a beach-themed wedding, or maybe just want something ultra cool on your feet? Sandals are the thing. Low, yet padded for the ultimate in comfort. Airy, yet still stylish and available in dozens of variations.
PHOTO BY LEAH STAFFORD PHOTOGRAPHY
Skimmers, for example, are pretty close. A little more body, oodles of fashion. Sliders, too. Both are similar to sandals but have a bit more fabric, a bit more support, and all the style you could ever wish for. Add an extra dash of fashion with an ornamented bridal shoe. Ribbons and bows are just one possibility among many. Rhinestones, alligator strips, Spanish lace, and a thousand and one other design elements can turn a wedding shoe into a work of art that gets passed from one generation to the next. Picked out a style but can't quite ďŹ nd the exact right color? OHIO BRIDES
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WEDDING ATTIRE
PHOTO BY CHILDERS PHOTOGRAPHY
Relax. Dyeable wedding shoes can solve your problem. With a swatch you can match your dress as closely as you want. Or, you can go with a deliberate contrast. Take a pair of white satin pumps, dye them burgundy and light up your wedding shoes with a burst of color under your white gown. CONTINUED Âť
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WEDDING ATTIRE
Gowns available at Trumpington Bridal House in Westerville, OH
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Gowns available at Altar Bound in Dayton, OH
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..YOUR SHOES LOOK FABULOUS - continued Don't neglect the men, though! Monk straps are not for the solemn when it comes to the groom's wedding shoes. They have so much more style than a medieval friar it's almost sinful. Indulge. Want something understated, but with the ultimate in sophistication for that special man? Oxfords are your solution. Give a thought to his comfort, too. Slip-ons are the pinnacle in ease of use and easy wearing. Yet they retain the highest level of style available in a man's wedding shoe.
PHOTO BY IDEAL IMAGES
The other major members of the wedding party - the bridesmaids and groomsmen - will also need to have their feet outďŹ tted. It's always a dilemma whether to match everyone exactly or allow individual taste to reign. Conquer the dilemma by considering how you approached the issue when it came to clothing. With so many tasks to tackle, and so many choices for a wedding shoe, you may be tempted to just toss oÂź the whole problem. Instead, embrace it and make it a cinch by just clicking until you hit the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. You'll be surprised how short the distance is you have to travel. Those compliments will follow right behind...
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SAY CHEESE...
Choosing your photographer wisely BY DANIEL MICHAEL
Not only will they take the photos that document your wedding for years to come, but they will also work more closely with you than any other vendor that day. There are many things to consider when picking your photographer. • Budget/Package • Style (photojournalism, traditional, blend) • Format (film or digital) • Personality fit • Experience
PHOTO BY BABCOCK STUDIO PHOTO BY IDEAL IMAGES
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You will find a wide price range when looking at photography based on the package, the number of photographers and the experience of those photographers. You will find family friends for a few hundred dollars all the way up to nearly $10,000. Most fall somewhere in between. A full time professional with 10 or more years of wedding photography experience will inspire confidence, be organized and prepared for all situations but will not be less than $2000. If that is out of your range, you may find someone with less experience but still a quality photographer. You just need to be sure there is enough experience that you are comfortable. Packaging may be the most complicated part of shopping for your photographer. The hidden charges can easily double your package price aªer your wedding. For example, the high resolution dvd that everyone asks for is oªen not print ready and if it is, is still not the same level of quality as what is shown in studio. To get a professional look to your digital files, your images need to be corrected with soªware and printed at a professional lab. This can be a major expense aªer your wedding CONTINUED »
..CHOOSING A PHOTOG≤PHER - continued as there is a huge mark up of sometimes upward of 1000%. It is important to have your high resolution dvd but look out for watermarks and file types that you cannot print from. Few couples really understand the amount of time they will need in their package. If you are headed to a park, then a ceremony site, then the reception and want your photographer to get any candids at your reception, expect to use 8-10 hours or so. The last thing you want is to be rushed through your day because of your photographer’s package. When looking at albums, make sure that the prints, mounting, binding, cover upgrades and design are included in the price you are given. Nearly every photographer will call themselves photojournalistic because it is popular. It’s up to you to determine if you like their style. Don’t worry about what style they consider themselves. The majority of photographers in this area are digital photographers. If you like the classic look of black and white film or the colors and skin tones in color film, you will need to do some homework to find those who o¼er film photography. If you prefer the special e¼ects that
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tend to go along with digital photography, then be sure your film photographer has the capabilities or use a digital photographer. It is wise to look at both a film and digital photographer so you can judge for yourself. Most importantly, you will be spending your entire day with your photographer. Make sure that you can not only tolerate them, but actually enjoy being around them. Your photos will su¼er if you can tell you are getting impatient with the person taking them. There is nothing more important on your wedding day than how you feel.
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AN OHIO WEDDING
Krista and Eric PHOTOGRAPHY BY IDEAL IMAGES Krista and Eric met on St. Patrick's Day while out with mutual friends. They immediately hit it o¼ and started dating. A little over a year later, while on vacation with Krista's family, Krista begged Eric to accompany her on an evening walk along the beach. Eric agreed, but pretended to be reluctant, all the while planning to pop the question. They sat on the beach and talked for a long time, and just before heading back Eric asked Krista to be his wife. Coincidentally, fireworks were being set o¼ somewhere down the beach as Krista said "Yes!"
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AN OHIO WEDDING
Amiee and Christian PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH BABCOCK STUDIO Aimee and Christian have been inseparable since 7-21-07 which became their special date. When Christian proposed, he wanted to incorporate those numbers. This meant 35 long-stemmed roses for Aimee: 7 pink, 21 red, and 7 white along with a handwritten card on each rose expressing the reasons why he loves her. CHURCH • BLESSED SACRAMENT DRESS • ALLURE BRIDALS, A NEW BEGINNING BRIDAL FLOWERS • A SECRET GARDEN MAKE-UP ARTIST • JEAN FOLCHI FORMALWEAR • FOLCHI FORMALWEAR
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AN OHIO WEDDING
Catie and Jim PHOTOGRAPHY BY 808 STUDIOS PHOTOGRAPHY The most personal and unique moment for us the day of the wedding was when Jim and I saw each other for the first time at Wegerzyn Gardens for pre-wedding photos. Jim came around the bend and my eyes began to fill with tears, I could hardly contain the joy I felt until he walked right up to me and gave me a big hug as if he had not seen me in years. The best part is my photographer was able to capture each detail of this moment. CAKE • ELE CAKE COMPANY RECEPTION • MEADOWBROOK COUNTRY CLUB
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VIDEOGRAPHY
Look great in your video BY VANESSA WILLIAMS 1 Never ever be ďŹ lmed from below unless you want a huge double chin. From above yes, from below a 'no no'. The same applies to the photographs. 2 Never be afraid to stare straight down the lens of the camera. But if you do, make sure you look for longer than feels comfortable. Feel like the star of your own wedding video, play to the camera and don't avoid it. It's there to make you look good. 3 Prime you guests to pose and smile for the camera, as most seem to scuttle oÂź in all directions when they see the wedding videographer. Perhaps you could write a note on your invitation, telling people to be ready for the video. This is especially a great idea if you are having Guest messages and then the guests can prepare what they are going to say on camera.
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PHOTO BY BABCOCK STUDIO
4 Tell the photographer that there will be a video there and that the video is just as important to you as the photographs. 5 It is your day but if you're about to do something amazing like throw confetti or pick up the bride or groom, make sure the videographer is there to catch it. It's an incredibly busy day for the videographer so they can't always be in two places at once, but make sure that they are always exactly where you want them to be. 6 Where possible use a microphone for the speeches, not everyone likes giving speeches and they may mumble their way quietly through the speech, so make sure everyone can hear it. 7 Employ your own make up artist, this can be a professional or a friend. 8 If it's a winter wedding and an incredibly dark venue, think
about the videographer and how they might want to light it. 9 If you getting married in a church, make sure that the vicar will allow the videographer to stand at the front of the church. 10 Ask your friends and family to dress in bright colors, big hats and fascinators as the tendency is for guests to wear black, which can look a bit somber on the ďŹ nished video and photographs.
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RELAX AND HAVE FUN
The right note Music sets a mood. It is part of many events and rituals that people enjoy. But they can only enjoy it at a wedding or reception if the music is done right. Given the di¼erences in taste, how is such a thing possible? By picking the pieces, timing and the volume that's appropriate to each part of the day. No specific selection is likely to appeal to everyone. But keeping the music in the background before the ceremony can help no matter which pieces you choose. Select according to the situation, also. Some people enjoy loud rock. A fine choice. But it doesn't fit in the moments before the wedding ceremony as the guests are being seated. Consider the right volume, as well. An upbeat atmosphere can be created without blasting the PHOTO BY BABCOCK STUDIO
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music out. Save it for the reception, aªer everyone has gotten loosened up. Anyone who doesn't enjoy the style or volume is then free to take a break outside. Soª romantic music is generally the preferred choice for the moments just before the ceremony. That's fine. But that leaves open a wide set of options. Judge your audience. Are they the sort to prefer some soª tunes from the 1990s? Or, are they more likely to respond to Chopin? No one size fits all, of course. But if the arrangements are right, people who never listen to classical oªen find they like it. A Beethoven string quartet is going to be too grim for most audiences. But a sugar-light confection from the latest folk musicians may annoy others. The resolution to the dilemma is, once again, to judge your audience. At the reception, all bets are o¼. A wide selection can and should be o¼ered, to provide something for everyone. Though, without doubt, the entire day belongs chiefly to the bride and groom. Their tastes (which also may di¼er a lot, of course) are important. But at the same time, people were invited to share that day. You'll want them to have a good time. The way to up the odds is to pick a CONTINUED »
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..THE RIGHT NOTE - continued wide variety of periods and styles. Something that appeals to one type will be not the favorite of another. If everyone gets something they like, and something they don't, they can listen at one time and have a drink outside at another. Does this lead to an eclectic mixture? You bet. But it's a reception, not a Broadway musical. If your wedding guests are all die hard classical aďŹ cionados, your task might appear easy. You can just go with one set from your collection. But those very types of people tend to be more critical listeners and your selections may be even harder. The same could be said for a fairly uniform set of guests who enjoy 70s rock, or heavy metal, jazz, or any other period or style. But wedding guest lists are usually made up of a more diverse group of people, musically speaking. Pick music that sets the right mood at the right time, then keep the volume appropriate for the moment. The only way to do all that, of course, is to follow your own heart.
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ADVERTISER INDEX
What page did I see that on? BRIDAL ATTIRE Alan Ray Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Alfred Angelo Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Altar Bound Bridal . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover Athena’s Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Bella Laccio Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Bethany’s Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 David’s Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Herle’s Tuxedos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Linda’s Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Men’s Wearhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Trumpington Bridal House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Wendy’s Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 BRIDAL SHOWS Ohio Bridal Expos . . . . . . . . . . .40, Back Cover CAKE Alice’s Piece of Cake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Platinum Parties and Cake Design . . . . . . . . .30 The Cakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 CATERING Elite Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Little Miami River Catering Company . . . . .26 Meier’s Wine Cellars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Top Hat Catering by Bullwinkles . . . . . . . . . .25 DJ’S AND ENTERTAINMENT Absolute DJs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 ASensation Mobile Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Elegant Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 JD Hughes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Party Pleasers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
FLOWERS Fresh French Floral Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Gri½ns Floral & Event Design . . . . . . . . . . . .12 HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS Arbonne International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Sun Your Buns Tanning Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Keep It Tight Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 HONEYMOON & T≤VEL Heritage Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 INVITATIONS, GIFTS & FAVORS Di¼erently Designed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 M Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 JEWELRY Herzog’s Jewelry Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Worthington Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 OFFICIANTS Central Ohio Wedding Services . . . . . . . . . .10 Marriage Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 PHOTOG≤PHY 808 Studios Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Animorphic Studios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 A Thousand Words Photography . . . . . . . . .45 Childers Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Daniel Michael & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Estes Images . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46-47 Ideal Images . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Jason Hinds Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Ron Wood Photo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Sarah Babcock Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
Vendors - Advertise next year in Ohio Brides! FACE-TO-FACE BRIDE CONTACT Bridal expos in Dayton, Cincinnati & Columbus at select venues
Shutterbooth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 RECEPTION LOCATIONS Benham’s Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Country Club of the North . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Dayton Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Fairfield Community Arts Center . . . . . . . . . .21 Fort Piqua Plaza Conference Center . . . . . .20 The Golf Club at Yankee Trace . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Grand Oaks Event Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 The Greater Columbus Convention Center .17 Greene County Convention Center . . . . . . .21 Homewood Suites . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover Manor House Banquet Center . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 NCR Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Tarten Fields Golf Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 The Wine Loª . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 RENTALS Premier Tent & Event . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Prime Time Party Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 T≤NSPORTATION Emerald Limousine Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 VIDEOG≤PHY Butterfly Productions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Phase Two Productions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Video Masters Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 WEDDING PLANNERS Social Butterflies Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Weddings by DeZine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Weddings by Katie V . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Your Dream Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
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