Wedding Essentials - Winter 2019

W E D D I N G E S S E N T I A L S M AG A Z I N E . C O M

An Omaha World-Herald Publication

WINTER EDITION 2019

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DISPLAY UNTIL APRIL 2019

OMAHA DESIGN CENTER FASHION • ARTS • EVENTS

Home of Omaha Fashion Week The Omaha Design Center and The Downtown Club are Omaha’s most fashionable event des na ons.

Flexible, beau ful and efficient events are possible using our instantly stylish décor, furniture and ligh ng.

Different spaces mean that we can cater for weddings from 100 to 600 with ease, pricing for all-inclusive packages for 200 start at $10,000.

Contact us today to schedule a tour and let us help make your elegant day dazzle with brilliance! www.omahadesigncenter.com or call (402) 819-8792

 

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Special

occasions...

Tiers of Joy Our award-winning cake designers will take care of every delicious detail.

Here Come the

Flowers

Our award-winning floral team is ready to make all the arrangements for your special day.

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Our Catering Managers are ready to bring your event inspirations to life!

Thirteen convenient Metro locations to serve you. Find us at Hy-Vee.com

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For all your

IT’S LIKE DINING IN THE WILD. (While not being on the menu.)

VO L U M E 1 7 I S S U E 1 EDITOR IN CHIEF Chris Christen chris.christen@owh.com

Hold your next event at the zoo.

Choose from the African Lodge, Durham TreeTops Restaurant or Scott Aquarium. Plus, by booking an event, you’re supporting conservation around the planet. 402-738-2088

DESIGNER Jessica Thompson jthompson@owh.com 2132320-01

ASSISTANT EDITOR Marjie Ducey marjie.ducey@owh.com COPY EDITOR Shelley Larsen shelley.larsen@owh.com ON THE COVER Kathleen Connor and George Parizek, photographed

by Pine + Prairie

You

PHOTO BOOTH

VIDEOGRAPHY

LIGHTING

DISC JOCKEY

COORDINATION

Amanda@CompleteOmaha.com

COMPLETEWEDDINGOMAHA.COM 2135727-01

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ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES Deborah Fernsell deborah.fernsell@owh.com Emily Martin emily.martin@owh.com Marilyn Martin marilyn.martin@owh.com EVENTS Tam Webb tam.webb@owh.com Tayler Kirtley tayler.kirtley@owh.com

CONTRIBUTORS Maggy Lemicke, Michelle Bazis, Melinda Keenan, Adrienne Fay, Brett Brooner Photography, Pine & Forge, Kayla Failla Photography, Pine + Prairie, Michele Zephier/Complete Weddings & Events, Sam Clark, The Mullers, Milan Lazic/WS Photography of Chicago, Lindsay Nickel Photography, Christina Block Photography, Allison Markova Photography, Deana Johnson Photography, Andrea Bibeault, onelove Photography, Emily Jessen Photography, Demetrios, Almond Leaf Studios

PHOTOGRAPHY

402.339.3535

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Lauren Miller lauren.kruger@owh.com

Wedding Essentials Magazine is a publication of the Omaha World-Herald. ©2019, Omaha World-Herald Co. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the specific written permission of the publisher.

The opinions expressed by those interviewed are their own. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information, no responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for content, opinions or practices, or how the information herein is used. All materials submitted, including but not limited to images, logos and text that appear, are assumed to be the original work of the provider, and the publisher is not responsible for unintentional copyright infringement.

The Omaha World-Herald 1314 Douglas St., Suite 700 • Omaha, NE 68102 • 402-444-1094

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EMPIRE ROOM AT TURNER PARK

Opening April 2019

i

n April 2019, the Empire Room will join the vibrant landscape of Omaha’s Midtown Crossing entertainment district.

This luxurious venue’s flexible layout will accommodate corporate and social events for up to 500 cocktail style or 350 seated. Your guests will be transported to an oasis of beauty and elegance right in the heart of the city.

The venue’s sprawling French Chateau-inspired patio overlooks Turner Park and a backdrop of the downtown Omaha skyline. Once inside, the Empire Room’s beautifully designed spaces deliver a “wow” moment to all who enter. From the glamour and opulence of the exquisite lighting and high-end finishes, to the practical functionality of an event space that can be transformed to meet your needs. The Empire Room’s experienced event professionals will help you and your guests create memories to last a lifetime.

Let us welcome you to a new event experience. Contact us at info@empireroomomaha.com to schedule a tour.

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WINTER 2019 weddingessentialsmagazine.com

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Wish BIG build the registry of your dreams DILLARD’S BRIDAL REGISTRY:

Over 260 Stores in 29 States The Best Selection of Your Favorite Brand Names Couples can register for home items to personal items, including lingerie, cosmetics and fragrances.

Registered couples may receive bonus gifts from vendor partners, a free beauty makeover for the bride and more.

COMPLETE YOUR NEW HOME PROGRAM Save 20% on most regular price items remaining on your registry after the wedding.

Visit www.dillards.com/registry for more details.

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Save the Date

E D I TO R ' S N OT E

EMBRACE THE DAY

March 9 RING AROUND THE CITY

Hello and welcome to Wedding Essentials!

sites. (We love giveaways. Follow us for a

We're delighted to have caught your eye.

chance to win!)

No doubt you're poring over every

2019 V ENUE TOUR

wedding resource you can get your hands on, collecting inspiration for celebrating one of the most important events of your life.

To be sure, there are as many ways to tie the knot as there are ways to express your love. Yet, an intimate celebration for 14 takes just as much thoughtful planning as a fairytale dinner and dance for 250 or more. See how four Real Wedding couples pulled their ideas together, beginning on page 16.

If DIY decor is high on your list, don't SAM AREMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

miss our interview with a self-described Pinterest queen, page 54, then take our quiz to see whether you're cut out to declare yourself one, too, page 57.

Undecided on a theme? See how one funloving couple looked to their favorite season: Halloween, page 85.

Collect even more local inspiration at two not-to-be-missed Wedding Essentials events.

Saturday, March 9, join us for our second annual venue tour, Ring Around the City.

And Sunday, Oct. 20, we'd love to see you at the Wedding Essentials Idea Show. It truly is "A Wedding Show Like No Other," with gorgeous tablescapes and themed displays, runway shows and more than 80 wedding pros eager to pick up where we leave off.

So breathe.

Smile.

Live in the moment.

And don’t sweat the small stuff.

Best wishes for a day that you'll cherish for the rest of your life, Chris Christen editor-in-chief

For some couples, kids at weddings can be a dilemma. We help you weigh the pros and cons, page 42.

Beyond our pages, stay in touch 24/7 through our website, blog and social media

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P.S. We'd love to see photos from your special day. Email a gallery link to weddingessentials@owh.com and see if your details don't catch our eye!

THE WEDDING ESSENTIALS TEAM

CHRIS CHRISTEN editor-in-chief

LAUREN MILLER advertising sales manager

TAM WEBB event manager

JESSIC A THOMPSON designer

SHELLEY LARSEN copy editor

ANDREA VIETH advertising sales assistant

TAYLER KIRTLEY event coordinator

MARJIE DUCEY assistant editor

MARILYN MARTIN account representative

EMILY MARTIN account representative

DEBORAH FERNSELL account representative

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 11

It’s more than a ring, more than a gift.

It’s a symbol that shines bright, reflecting its origins, the methods of its makers, and the heritage and service that brings it all together.

MADE of SOMETHING MORE

ONLINE BORSHEIMS.COM | BY PHONE (800) 642-GIFT | FLAGSHIP REGENCY

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Registry GIFTS MADE OF SOMETHING MORE

For your life every day to life’s biggest moments.

CREATE YOURS TODAY in-store or at the all new borsheims.com DOWNLOAD THE REGISTRY APP

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 13

O N T H E C OV E R PAGE 68

PINE + PRAIRIE

REAL WEDDING: KATHLEEN & GEORGE

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PHOTOS: (FROM LEFT) MICHELLE BAZIS, THE MULLERS, MICHELE ZEPHIER/COMPLETE WEDDINGS & EVENTS

Winter Edition 2019

REAL WEDDINGS 16 Paige & Chris 30 Jessica & Jordan 46 Caitlin & Jon 68 Kathleen & George SPONSORED FEATURES 66 Ralston Arena 96 Small Business Directory ESSENTIAL RESOURCES 92 Vendor Listing 94 Venue Guide

STYLED SHOOTS 26 Nontraditional rings TRENDS + ADVICE 42 Kids at weddings 44 Pint-size wedding style 54 DIY: Is it for you?

58 Themed wedding: Love story 64 Registry simplicity 77 2019 trend watch 85 Themed wedding: Halloween 96 Writing the perfect thank you

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REAL WEDDING

Paige & Chris B R E T T B RO O N E R P H OTO G R A P H Y

AUGUST 4, 2018

OMAHA DESIGN CENTER

LONG-DISTANCE ROMANCE Paige Longwell and Chris

tells future brides not to stress the small stuff on their big

Forfar met through mutual friends in Las Vegas. They dated

day. "Sit back, relax and take in every single moment you can

long distance for two years before Paige made the move from

because the day is over in a blink of an eye." BIG MOMENTS

Omaha to Chicago to be with Chris. WEEKEND WHIRL

Paige will always remember how their best man sprayed a

Chris took Paige to dinner at Bavette's Bar & Boeuf and then

bottle of champagne for his entry "dance" into the reception.

to Alder Planetarium, where he proposed. Her best friend was

The newlyweds' first dance (which included a lift!) and the

there to take pictures, and then other close friends popped out

father-daughter dance were special moments, too. "I also really

from behind the building to surprise Paige. "We then went back

enjoyed my dad's speech." TOUCHING TRIBUTE Chris loved

to our apartment where my family, his family and his friends

what Paige did with their memory table. She used a picture of

were waiting," the bride says. "We all celebrated together, and

Chris' grandmother Rose, which surprised his dad. "He was

then he played a video for me that had everyone attending

extremely moved and humbled that she took the time to have

the engagement celebration and those who couldn't attend

his mom represented at our wedding. It was a moment that

congratulating us. It was very special.'' The rest of the weekend

I won't forget," he says. SHEDDING PUPPY They love the

was filled with dinners, brunches and nights on the town for

vacuum cleaner from Chris' mom because they recently got a

everyone there. PERFECT PLAN Paige wanted an elegant,

lab puppy. "I am such a clean freak," the bride says. Chris loves

warm and inviting wedding. She says her wedding planners and

the coffee grinder from Paige's aunt. "I love my coffee and have

designers captured her vision perfectly. "I still get compliments

always wanted the ability to make French roast coffee at home,"

about my head table design and how amazing it was. People

he says. WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS Chris can't believe how

comment that they have never seen anything like it. People

a trip to Vegas with the boys has changed his life. He found the

were honestly blown away. I caught people taking pictures of it

love of his life. "She is extremely loyal and caring, charismatic,

all night long." NO RUSH Paige says the day-of scheduling went

driven, adventurous, the list goes on! Oh, and did I mention,

great. They had plenty of time to get ready and take pictures,

gorgeous?" Paige says she's just as lucky to find someone she

and to enjoy their wedding party on the trolley and everyone's

can trust and who makes her laugh every single day. "He is my

company at the reception. Still, the day flew by. That's why she

best friend, and I couldn't imagine doing life with anyone else."

 

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S I M P LY

Essential details THE COUPLE PAIGE LONGWELL AND CHRIS FORFAR PHOTOGRAPHER BRETT BROONER PHOTOGRAPHY

Elegant...

Naturally

B EAUTIFUL

WEDDING DATE AUGUST 4, 2018 REHEARSAL DINNER SULLIVAN'S STEAKHOUSE CEREMONY ST. PAUL'S LUTHERAN CHURCH RECEPTION OMAHA DESIGN CENTER VIDEOGRAPHER PRAIRIE DUST WEDDING FILMS BRIDAL GOWN "DIANA" BY ISRAELI DESIGNER ALON LIVNE, BELLA BIANCA BRIDAL COUTURE, CHICAGO ACCESSORIES BELLA BIANCA BRIDAL COUTURE, HAUTE BRIDE, MARIA ELENA HAIRSTYLIST EMILY KLINGEMANN MAKEUP ARTIST JASMINE SMIDT BRIDESMAID DRESSES HAYLEY PAIGE MEN’S ATTIRE THE BLACK TUX, CHICAGO © Scarlett Crews Photography

RINGS ALTOBELLO FINE JEWELERS, WHEATON, ILLINOIS FLORIST CREATING ATMOSPHERE CAKE GRAINOLIA CATERER ATTITUDE ON FOOD RENTALS CREATING ATMOSPHERE AND UNITED RENT-ALL MUSIC LOST WAX, KANSAS CITY TRANSPORTATION VIP LIMO AND OLLIE THE TROLLEY

R ECEPTIONS | C EREMONIES | P HOTOGRAPHY B RIDAL S HOWERS | P RENUPTIAL D INNERS

INVITATIONS/PROGRAMS DANA OSBORNE DESIGN GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS HILTON OMAHA EVENT PLANNER BASIC BASH EVENTS

100 Bancroft St., Omaha lauritzengardens.org

HONEYMOON AUSTRALIA AND BALI

2132337-01

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EXPECT NOTHING BUT THE BEST

Hotel Deco is Omaha’s most luxurious boutique hotel, the only AAA Four Diamond Preferred Hotel in Nebraska.

Beautifully designed and located in the heart of downtown, Hotel Deco provides elegant, exquisite wedding venues and accommodations.

Come explore the possibilities for unique weddings in a historic setting with modern details and exceptional service. e.

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S T Y L E D S H O OT

MODERN ROCKS 28

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New trends and styles for stones and settings

TEXT CHRIS CHRISTEN

STYLING & PHOTOGRAPHY MICHELLE BAZIS

A

white solitaire diamond engagement ring certainly is one for eternity. But if your tastes run less traditional, there are countless ways to set a classic diamond apart from the crowd. Five we love: 1. Add a colored halo of sapphires, rubies or tsavorite garnets. 2. Opt for an heirloom or a vintage-inspired setting in a warm-toned precious metal, possibly with diamond accents on the prongs. 3. Place a pear, oval or cushion-cut white or colored diamond or gemstone at the heart of the setting. 4. Accent a solitaire diamond with a colored gemstone or a smaller diamond on either side for a trilogy symbolizing your past, present and future together. 5. Wrap the solitaire in a customdesigned enhancer or play with the art of the stack for a thoroughly modern look. The beauty of it all for 2019: Anything goes.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT 18K rose gold 5.28 ctw natural blue sapphire and .54 tctw diamond ring, gundersons.com; 18K rose gold 1.05 ctw morganite and diamond ring for her, 14K brushed rose gold coin-edge band for him, gundersons.com; 14K rose gold checkerboard rhodolite garnet and diamond ring; 18K rose gold brown diamond eternity band, borsheims.com; Margie Magnuson sterling silver topaz ring for her, reticulated sterling band for him, bluepom.com. OPPOSITE PAGE 18K white gold .89 ctw morganite pear and .45 ctw diamond ring; 14K white and rose gold coin-edge band. gundersons.com

 

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Truhlsen Campus Events Center Spacious | Affordable | Convenient

Located on the UNMC campus in the Sorrell Center.

402-559-5192 unmc.edu/eventscenter 2102 22102063-01 1102 002206 06363-011

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A brand new space in Omaha.

modern architecture | vast natural light | outdoor space

2120 N. 30th Street, Omaha NE | 402.502.2770 highlanderomaha.com/thevenue  

weddingessentialsmagazine.com  31

REAL WEDDING

Jessica & Jordan PINE & FORGE

32

SEPTEMBER 23, 2018

STIRNELLA BAR & KITCHEN

YOU LIGHT UP MY LIFE Jessica Luna and Jordan Jackson

and the energy was so wonderful." After dinner, the couple

met in 2007 at a friend's house and talked all night. "That was

went into the street for photographs against a golden setting

it," Jessica says. Jordan proposed on a trip to the Northeast.

sun. PERSONAL TOUCHES Jessica's niece played guitar and

They were driving from Boston to Acadia National Park

sang as Jessica and Jordan walked down the aisle. Friend and

when they stopped for the night in Rockland, Maine. A visit

Stirnella head chef Matt Moser prepared a Spanish-style meal

to Breakwater Lighthouse was on Jessica's list of things to do

with the bride's favorite starter, shrimp bisque.The tables were

before dinner at Primo, a restaurant known for its farm-to-

decorated with boho shibori-dyed table runners made by the

table Italian cuisine. As the couple walked the breakwater, they

bride, her mother and an aunt. Small paintings by Jessica served

stopped to look at the moon, and Jordan popped the question.

as place cards and favors for guests. Songs the newlyweds listen

"A full moon on one side and a setting sun on the other,"

to at home while cooking together played in the background.

Jessica recalls. "After he proposed, a woman with a camera

BRIDAL STYLE The bride wore custom-designed earrings

walked up and took our photo; it was perfect. We both were in

by Heather Kita using heirloom pearls gifted to the bride from

our road-tripping gear so we looked a bit rough but perfectly

her grandmother, who died a month after the wedding. WE

relaxed at the same time. Such a great memory!" OVER THE

ARE FAMILY Jessica's uncle had guests in stitches during

MOON The couple ran out of time to change for dinner so

his speech about the couple while the groom brought tears

they went directly to the restaurant. At the table was a floral

with his touching toast. FAVORITE GIFTS Jessica's uncle

arrangement from Jordan. "I was so over-the-moon excited

made a large brass triangle as a backdrop of their vows. The

that I wasn’t hungry, so he ate and I had a martini. I still want

rug the couple stood on was a gift from Jessica's mom. And

to go back and try the food; it looked really good." SMALL

aunts and uncles provided the wine for the party. "They

BUT PERFECT The couple had an intimate ceremony and

know good wine so that was awesome." NO SURPRISES

reception at Stirnella in the Blackstone District. Their best

Jessica and Jordan have been together a long time, so there

friends stood up for them and another friend, Christina

were no shocks after the wedding. He says Jessica is smart,

Pierce, officiated. "The day of our wedding was so joyful,"

beautiful and the sweetest person he knows. "He has a big

Jessica says. "The sun was shining in the space so perfectly,

heart, makes me laugh and is darn good-looking," Jessica says.

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Essential details THE COUPLE JESSICA LUNA AND JORDAN JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHER PINE & FORGE WEDDING DATE SEPTEMBER 23, 2018 REHEARSAL DINNER BACKYARD BBQ AT THE COUPLE'S HOME CEREMONY AND RECEPTION STIRNELLA BAR & KITCHEN VIDEOGRAPHER WIESE PRODUCTIONS BRIDAL GOWN BHLDN ACCESSORIES HEATHER KITA JEWELRY DESIGN HAIR AND MAKEUP KALI RAHDER BRIDESMAID DRESSES ASOS MEN’S ATTIRE MEN'S WEARHOUSE RINGS HEATHER KITA JEWELRY DESIGN, BORSHEIMS, GOLDSMITH SILVERSMITH FLORIST JON TAYLOR, THE BACHELOR'S BUTTON CAKE KATIE JACKSON CATERER STIRNELLA BAR & KITCHEN MUSIC BRENT CRAMPTON TRANSPORTATION MILITARY ESCORT ARRANGED BY THE BRIDE'S UNCLE INVITATIONS/PROGRAMS MÉLDEEN GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS ELEMENT HOTEL WEDDING COORDINATOR/EVENT PLANNER KALEIGH WIESE & NICOLE STANFORD 2136 2136718-01 2136 36771118 36 188-011

HONEYMOON BIG SUR, CALIFORNIA

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 39

Planning & Coordination | Floral & Design | Photography & DJ | thefountainsballroom.com | staff@memrical.com 712.526.2426

The Fountains Ballroom is a unique wedding venue nestled in the picturesque Loess Hills and 15 minutes from downtown Omaha. Thoughtfully located in the tranquil countryside of western Iowa, The Fountains Ballroom offers the perfect backdrop for your day. It is designed as a blank canvas for us to create the wedding of your dreams. Let us handle all of the little details along the way.

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Making dreams come true in a setting as unique as the couple.

Enjoy one-of-a-kind skyline views from the 19th floor.

Imagine a formal, grand ballroom with soaring ceilings.

Dance and dine the night away in one of our mezzanine-level ballrooms.

Invite 10 to 800 of your closest friends and family to celebrate your special day.

Our professional staff specializes in Wedding Receptions, Wedding Ceremonies, Engagement Parties, Anniversary Parties, and Rehearsal Dinners.

Sweet Beginnings Happen at Double Tree by Hilton Omaha Downtown

402.636.4900 | omahadowntown.doubletree.com

weddingessentialsmagazine.com Hilton HHonors membership, earning Points & Miles and redemption of points are subject to HHonors Terms and Conditions. ©2012 Hilton Worldwide. 41

Photo: Lane Weddings

A sweet start to your happily ever after...

SHARE YOUR WEDDING Find the submission form online at weddingessentialsmagazine.com 42

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Submission Guidelines 50-100 IMAGES 70% details, 30% couple/wedding party is preferred. For print, photos must be 300 dpi, at least 9x12 inches, JPEG. Images must be submitted to a downloadable online gallery (i.e. Dropbox, Google Drive, Pixieset, etc.). If a password/ pin is required for download, please include it. Links to photos on a blog post will not be accepted.

No watermarks/logos on photo submissions, please (we'll make sure the photographer is given proper credit).

COMPLETE VENDOR LIST The more vendors you share, the more likely it is your wedding/shoot will be chosen for publication.

Styled shoot submissions must include at least three of our current preferred vendors.

SHORT DESCRIPTION Tell us about a few essential details, along with contact information for the photographer (and the couple if submitting a Real Wedding) so we can follow up on the story.

WHO CAN SUBMIT Wedding vendors, brides and photographers. If you have participated in an exceptional wedding or styled shoot that you would like to see published, you are welcome to submit. Please follow the submission guidelines.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: SAM AREMAN PHOTOGRAPHY, HEIDI HOFFMAN, CHRIS CHRISTEN; OPPOSITE PAGE: PHOTO BY THE EYE & HAND PROJECT

2019 SUBMISSION DEADLINES February 19 (Spring Issue), May 22 (Summer Issue), August 20 (Fall Issue) and November 12 (Winter 2020 Issue). Please note that our team reviews all submissions and it may take a few weeks before you get a response. Blog submissions are accepted on a continuing basis.

EXCLUSIVITY Submissions for print are accepted only if you have not submitted to other competing publications.

Blog submissions are non-exclusive.

QUESTIONS? Email the editor at chris.christen@owh.com.

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 43

A DV I C E

Make your wedding fun for the kids, too – if you decide to invite them STORY MARJIE DUCEY PHOTOGRAPHY THE MULLERS

44

E

vent planner Lindsay Johnson says it’s a 50-50 split between her wedding clients.

About half look forward to having children at their wedding, making for a big festive party. The other half prefer a more elegant and formal reception, sans children.

It might just come down to the budget, says Johnson, owner of Lindsay Elizabeth Events. Nar-

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rowing the guest list is a necessity.

If you land on the kids-are-welcome side, it's easy to keep little ones occupied and feeling a part of the festivities, says Hannah Backer, the event coordinator at Noah’s Event Venue of Omaha.

That can range from having a kids menu to setting aside a room for the children to watch

Julie Clatterbuck and Mike Schultz both have a lot of kids in their extended families, plus their close friends all have kids. “So it was a no-brainer to include them” at their Sept. 8 wedding, the bride says. Jenga, a bean bag toss and other yard games and coloring books as favors kept the youngsters entertained throughout the reception.

movies or play games.

"Usually, once the dancing starts, they like to dance, have fun with the lights and ... run around," Backer says.

Backer and Johnson share these ideas if kids will be part of your big day. » Coloring books are a great way to keep children occupied during the ceremony and the

reception. Backer says one couple even designed one based on their love story. » Most caterers will work with you on a kids menu (for ages 12 and younger), which usually consists of chicken strips or macaroni and cheese. Children are fed first, so they don't get fussy and can eat something they like. A candy bar for the little ones is sure to please, too.

» Include them in the toast and speeches, Backer says. "A cute idea is to do sparkling grape juice or cider." » Some brides will do activity bags for their littlest guests. Others design a scavenger hunt.

The kiddos mark off different things they see in the wedding or reception, such as the first time they see the bride and groom kiss. When they're done, they can redeem a prize at the reception. » Dancing is always one of the highlights at a reception, so have your DJ include a few songs that you know the kids will love. Something from "Frozen" or "Trolls," Johnson says. "I know my little one loves to go out" on the dance floor, she says. » Photo booths are another way to keep children occupied. Kids adore them. "They are going to take up a lot of your photo booth pictures, but it definitely keeps them occupied during the dances," Johnson says. » At the end of the night, when the bridal party exits, have streamers, sparklers, glow sticks or bubbles for guests. "That's always a fun thing for the kids," Backer says.

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 45

TRENDS

SERIOUS CUTENESS Comfortable kids are happy kids when it comes to pint-size wedding party style.

PHOTOS BY (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE) THE MULLERS, MICHELE ZEPHIER/COMPLETE WEDDINGS & EVENTS, THE MULLERS, SAM CLARK, JASMINE WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY

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If you're hoping for serious cuteness as your pint-size flower girl and ring bearer come down the aisle, keep comfort top of mind as you're shopping for their attire. Most little girls love dressing up, but fancy fabrics and fussy trims can ruin a little princess's mood pretty quickly if they're itchy against the skin. Everyone loves a little boy in a tux. But how long will that formal look be tolerated? A crisp collared shirt, suspenders, bow tie and trousers have just as much flair with half the fuss. Keep accessories simple; a basket or ring pillow is plenty to handle for a 4-, 5- or 6-year-old. And remember: Parents traditionally pay for the flower girl's and ring bearer's attire. So unless you are making a gift of it, be sure to be upfront about the expense when you ask the parents for permission to include their child in the wedding party. And just to improve your chances of a priceless moment captured for eternity: Send little ones down the aisle in pairs. Cuteness feeds on cuteness.

 

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REAL WEDDING

Caitlin & Jonathan K AY L A F A I L L A P H O T O G R A P H Y

JUNE 8, 2018

HUSKER POWER Caitlin Gillespie and Jonathan Richter met during homecoming week their freshman year at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. They were both involved in Greek life, and their houses were building a float together.

They didn't exchange phone numbers until an ugly Christmas sweater party. "We spent the entire break texting back and forth, went on our first date after arriving back on campus and were officially dating that spring," Caitlin says. SATURDAY SURPRISE After college, Caitlin lived in Des Moines for medical school. Jon had an apartment in the Old Market, and their weekend ritual was to grab coffee and go for a walk in downtown Omaha. One Saturday in January they took their usual route along Gene Leahy Mall toward the riverfront. When Caitlin spotted a sorority sister who is a photographer, she put it all together. "Jon had every little detail planned out, including a mini engagement photo shoot right there on the spot, drinks at a brewery with some of our closest friends that night and brunch with our parents the next day. It was the perfect start to this new chapter of our lives." ROMANTIC THEME Their reception space was more industrial, so Caitlin wanted to soften it with romantic décor. She chose garden roses, peonies and hydrangeas in white, ivory and blush; greenery and candles. "As we arrived at the venue and prepared to make our entrance, I was blown away by how light and romantic everything looked," Caitlin says. DAD'S A HIT Caitlin's dad sings and plays guitar. As a surprise, he coordinated with the

FOUNDERS ONE • NINE

DJ to perform "Can't Help Falling in Love With You" before the main dance. "Not only was it a beautiful performance that gave Jon and I an extra chance to share the dance floor together, but it was the song that my parents danced to at their wedding, and that made it all the more special to me."

EASY RIDER Ollie the Trolley made the transportation to and from the ceremony a breeze for the large wedding party.

Dante's Pizzeria and its traveling wood-fired pizza oven was a hit as a late-night snack. IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS Caitlin recommends starting the planning process as early as possible and being realistic about your budget. "Decide which major things are really important to you, then make sure they are planned exactly as you want them. If there are things you can delegate to people you trust, then definitely do it." PERFECT PRESENTS Caitlin's parents gave them season tickets to the Omaha Community Playhouse, the same gift her parents received from her dad's sister when they were married. If they are too tired to go out, they love sitting in their new sectional, a gift from the wedding party. Living together has been an adjustment. "Since we've each been doing things our own way in our own places for the past few years, we both have needed to be flexible and communicate a lot. But it's been really fun to live together and to figure things out as we go along." Jon said they have fun no matter what they are doing, even if it's hanging out on the couch. Caitlin says Jon is kind, loyal, intelligent and handsome. "Everything you would want in a partner."

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Essential details THE COUPLE CAITLIN GILLESPIE AND JONATHAN RICHTER PHOTOGRAPHER KAYLA FAILLA PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDING DATE JUNE 8, 2018 REHEARSAL DINNER THE MATT BAR & GRILL CEREMONY ST. JAMES CATHOLIC CHURCH RECEPTION FOUNDERS ONE • NINE VIDEOGRAPHER COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS BRIDAL GOWN ALLURE BRIDALS/ROMANCE COLLECTION, PERRY BRIDAL, DES MOINES ACCESSORIES USABRIDE,VON MAUR HAIRSTYLIST ALEXANDRA TAGUE MAKEUP ARTIST ANDREA SORTINO/AIRBRUSH BY ANDREA, KRISTAL WHEELOCK/MAKEUP BY KRISTAL BRIDESMAID DRESSES DAVID'S BRIDAL, LULU'S, WEDDINGTON WAY, SHOW ME YOUR MUMU, FOREVER21 MEN’S ATTIRE MEN'S WEARHOUSE RINGS BORSHEIMS, NOÉMIE FLORIST HY-VEE CAKE CAKE CREATIONS

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A DV I C E

DIY wedding is easy for this Pinterest queen ... ... But is it for you? Consult our flowchart on page 57 STORY MARJIE DUCEY PHOTOGRAPHY SAM CLARK

A

nna Childers isn’t afraid of whipping up something she has discovered on Pinterest.

As a teacher, she often uses the website, so it was a natural for her wedding, too.

"I'm just a Pinterest queen," she says.

She and her husband, Ben, made as much as they could for their outdoor ceremony this fall.

She estimates they spent 15 hours building four walls from wooden shipping pallets as backdrops for the bar and cake.

"Ben would cut the pallets apart, and I would put the pieces on the wall and nail them in. I think the walls were my favorite," she says.

She also made the signage for both areas

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and a menu board plus a chicken wire frame for their photos.

She shopped around to see whether it was cheaper to buy items or make them. She considered making a wooden bench for some seating during the ceremony, but it made more

sense to rent chairs.

"We went pretty simple with a lot of stuff," says Anna, who was determined that everything look good. "I'm kind of a perfectionist, so it probably wouldn’t have made its way out there" if it didn't fit her vision.

There's a lot to think about if you decide to put together every aspect of your big day, says wedding planner Vernetta Kosalka.

The list includes processing fresh flowers when they arrive five days before the CO N TI N U ED O N PA G E 56

 

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He wasn't the only one to help. The wedding

CO N T I N U ED FR O M PA G E 5 5

hopes will debut in the fall of 2019. It will

ceremony (hint: they aren't ready-to-go out of the box) to saving your wedding photos by miraculously coming up with a charged battery for your cousin's camera.

Kosalka is using her 10 years in the business to develop a DIY wedding class for Metropolitan Community College that she

explore wedding timelines, trends, food and

was at the home of Ben’s parents, and family

bouquet design. Every contingency will be

played a big part, helping to set up and take

covered.

down everything.

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Anna says it was a comfort to know that her

"I couldn't have done it without all their help

dad, Brad Goldenstein, who is an accomplished

the day of," Anna says. "We had to leave for

woodworker, was available if needed. He

appointments and stuff, so their help was very

supplied the pallets from his business.

much appreciated and needed."

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DIY REALITY CHECK Make a list of all the wedding do-it-yourself projects you are planning, then run each project through the flow chart. Cross off projects that fail the test.

Start here

Do I really have time to learn?

NO

Do I have skills in this area?

STOP

NO

YES

NO GLORY

Can I figure it out without many error purchases?

Why am I doing this?

SAVE $$$

NO

Do I have detailed instructions and a supply list?

YES

YES

Will I need help?

YES

Find your helpers ASAP!

NO

ON IT!

Add up supply costs.

Is it cheaper to make than to buy or rent?

YES NO

Take the estimated time to complete the project, then double it. Do I have this much time to spare?

NO

You should do this yourself.

YES

Go for it!  

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THEMED WEDDING

‘EVER AFTER’ LOVE STORY With a name like Lovercheck, their theme wrote itself

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STORY MARJIE DUCEY PHOTOGRAPHY MICHELE ZEPHIER/COMPLETE WEDDINGS & EVENTS

W

ith a last name like Lovercheck, choosing a wedding theme was easy.

Josette and Rob Lovercheck played up the many chapters of their "Love Story," including dating on and off for more than 20 years. The couple met in high

school at Omaha North, where Josette is now a counselor.

The Loverchecks' engagement photos were taken in a library. Their invitations looked like a book. A poster with the order of events for the ceremony and a dinner menu had the appearance of an open book.

Wedding favors and escort cards were designed as bookmarks. Tables were labeled as chapters, and guests were asked to write a note to be opened on the corresponding year.

Cinderella carriages on the tables might have been too much, Josette says, but she says CO N TI N U ED O N PA G E 60

COURTESY JOSETTE LOVERCHECK AND EMILY AVENI

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C O N T I N U ED FR O M PA G E 5 9

their story is a fairy tale.

Josette’s attention to detail was amazing, says their wedding planner and designer, Vernetta Kosalka.

Kosalka loves themed weddings because they are so personal.

"I really encourage people to be authentic and

62

bring out their story," she says. "It’s just been fascinating to see the themes come to life."

She has seen all types. There was a John Deere theme for a rustic barn wedding. Many couples incorporate Star Wars or the Mario Brothers.

"Video games are huge," Kosalka says.

One couple met in New York, so they

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wanted to include details of the city. They were married in a city park here in Omaha, and a yellow cab like you’d see in the Big Apple provided the transportation.

Some incorporate a passion in their lives in their wedding theme, or a family tradition they want to celebrate.

CO N TI N U ED O N PA G E 62

SEE MORE PHOTOS FROM THIS REAL WEDDING AT weddingessentialsmagazine.com

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C O N T I N U ED FR O M PA G E 6 0

"They want to introduce to family and friends how they celebrate or how they choose to relax," Kosalka says. "It’s important to tell their story from their perspective."

Like a good book, the Loverchecks added a twist to their story during the reception.

Josette was seven months pregnant, so they

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did a gender reveal when it was time to cut the cake.

Instead of a pink or blue cake, Josette held up a blue banner signifying a boy while Rob gave a short but touching speech. It was quite a surprise for their guests.

"He's the first grandson on the Lovercheck side, so they are really excited that the name is

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going to carry on," Josette says.

Baby Jaxon has brought a new chapter into their lives. They adore him, and so does Rob’s daughter, Kaya.

"She's around on the weekend, and she absolutely loves her little brother and loves helping out," Josette says. "He just looks at her and smiles, so I think it's reciprocal."

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A DV I C E

A minimalist’s registry What you really need and nothing more

TEXT ADRIENNE FAY

I

'm a minimalist at heart.

Over the years I have worked the KonMari Method of decluttering and organizing in my house, removing up to 40 bags of unnecessary household items at a time.

That exercise has helped me zero in on items for your wedding registry that your future self will thank you for down the road.

Having worked in the home accessories and jewelry retail world for almost 15 years, I have seen just about everything you could register for. Some of it is ridiculous — I’m looking at you, crystal-covered stainless steel straws — but some of it is helpful when you consider the long game of life.

1. PITCHER Pitchers speak to my love of multiple-use products. Like Food Network star Alton Brown, I do not have space for uni-taskers in my kitchen. While seemingly pedestrian, having a pitcher on your wedding registry is a dark horse. Yes, a pitcher is a vessel for bringing water to your table. But it is also a terrific vase and even a décor item. Fill a crystal pitcher with a seasonal element, toss it on your mantel and — boom! — Instagram-worthy décor. A pitcher on your registry means you can batch-make margaritas for friends now and you can batch-make margaritas for friends 10 years from now. Love for margaritas does not age.

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2. CAKE STAND Say what? A cake stand? It’s not as frivolous as you think. I chose to register by myself — no fiancée, no mom, no sales associate. Just me and a clipboard. A glass cake stand seemed so indulgent at the time, but now it is one of my workhorses. Let’s be clear, a cake stand is great for cake and, with two young daughters, we have an abundance of cake for tea parties. But a cake stand moonlights as a cheese board very well.

Ditto for appetizers. Doing a buffet for a party? Include your cake stand for any (nonwatery) food to add height and interest.

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3. DOUBLE OLD-FASHIONED GLASSES Early in my engagement, a family friend gave my fiancé and me a set of two crystal double old-fashioned glasses with our last initial engraved on them. We began using them for summer drinks, special occasions and not-so-special occasions. But just having two meant those special occasions were limited to, you guessed it, just two people. I added six more to my registry and still have them in steady use. What I also wish I had added were acrylic double old-fashioned glasses. Acrylic or melamine versions are far better for outside entertaining.

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4. SERVING PLATTER When you think of a big platter, do you think of a giant ham or turkey that you will never make and, hence, should never register for? I get it. But let your 10-years-into-thefuture self tell you that you are going to haul out that platter when you have kids.

This big platter does not need to be fancy.

It does not need to match any china. It just needs to be big. I’ve used mine to prep and haul treat bags for dance recitals and cookies for bake sales. I've also used it for a rainbow mini-cupcake display for a 3-yearold’s birthday.

5. CHINA China is dated, right? People don't want their mom’s china, china that can’t go in the dishwasher, or china they’ll only use twice a year. So why register for it? I’m here to tell you that china is helpful, and 99 percent of it can go in the dishwasher. When I got married, I registered for “transitional” china, (eight Fiestaware place settings, five pieces each) which can be dressed up or down.

Now, most china is considered transitional.

I can use my Kate Spade china with my Fiestaware, and it looks terrific. It’s been perfect for when I entered the baby shower

phase, which happens approximately 2½ years after the wedding shower phase.

It is natural and easy to register only for what your life is like right now. But life can start to look different five, 10 or 25 years out. Tabletop décor and accessories do not just mean big fancy dinners that happen only once a year. They mean life worth living on your terms and a vision for how you like to entertain.

Adrienne Fay is the director of marketing and business sales at Borsheims. She is married and is the proud mom to two little girls. Adrienne blogs frequently at www. fayfamilyne.wordpress.com. The Omaha World-Herald is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Inc., which owns Borsheims.

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S P O N S O R E D F E AT U R E

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Contact us today to set up a tour, meet our event team and see why Ralston Arena truly is “Something for everyone.”

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KIRSTINA E. PHOTOGRAPHY

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REAL WEDDING

Kathleen & George PINE + PRAIRIE

SEPTEMBER 15, 2018

INSTANT ATTRACTION George Parizek's sister, Bridget, is one of Kathleen Connor's closest friends. Bridget unintentionally set them up one night when she and her then-fiance, Zach Clark, invited them out. "Little did she know that we would immediately hit it off,'' Kathleen says. SURPRISE! George surprised Kathleen with a series of little gifts for coming events (like running socks and sunscreen for the Lincoln Half Marathon) and concluded with a big surprise — a ring. "He also had La Casa pizza hidden in our oven to enjoy (after proposing)," Kathleen says. FAMILY CONNECTION Kathleen's grandfather was John Kenefick, the namesake of Kenefick Park, and she had always dreamt of getting married there. "When George and I were lucky enough to get squeezed in at Lauritzen Gardens, we asked close friend and then-Lauritzen director Spencer Crews if we could make that happen. Luckily, Spencer is very sensible and advised against conducting the ceremony there due to almost constant wind," Kathleen says. Crews suggested a short champagne toast there after the ceremony instead. IN SEASON Kathleen skipped choosing wedding colors and asked her florist to use whatever was locally in season. The couple also used as many local small businesses as they could. "We wanted our wedding to be as comfortable and enjoyable as possible for ourselves and our guests," she says. "We kept it casual and focused on important details like really great food and a fun band." SPECIAL MOMENTS When Kathleen's mother walked her down the aisle and handed her off to George, they unconsciously kissed. "Of course, everyone

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LAURITZEN GARDENS

laughed at our wedding faux pas," she says. During the ceremony, they recited a classic Mister Rogers poem together, alternating lines. "It was really special reciting that together and a little surprise for our guests. We were told that poem really started the floodgates in the crowd." FLOATS, ANYONE? They passed on traditional wedding cake in favor of root beer floats.

They ordered kegs of fresh root beer from Upstream Brewing Company and hired Coneflower Creamery to dish out vanilla ice cream. "The floats were fun and portable for taking to the dance floor." A LITTLE HELP FROM FRIENDS Don't hesitate to ask for help, Kathleen says. Many of their decisions on food, décor, etc., were influenced by friends' weddings. "We found the best resources by word of mouth." Also, Kathleen advises if you do not have a wedding planner, hire a "day of" coordinator. "I hired a friend of a friend to keep track of all of the little things on the day of the wedding so that George and I and our family didn't have to worry," she says. "I was so much more relaxed on our wedding day because I knew I could trust her to keep all of our vendors informed and on schedule."

She couldn't believe how fast the day flew by. SHARING DECISIONS Approaching everything as a team, down to the thermostat, has been an adjustment for both, but at the same time they feel stronger with a partner at their side. George says he's so lucky to have Kathleen. She says he's the most encouraging, supportive and thoughtful partner. "His actions and opinions remind me daily how lucky I am to be his partner."

 

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Essential details THE COUPLE KATHLEEN CONNOR AND GEORGE PARIZEK PHOTOGRAPHER PINE + PRAIRIE WEDDING DATE SEPTEMBER 15, 2018 REHEARSAL DINNER MIDTOWN CROSSING PENTHOUSE/ ROOFTOP, CATERED BY LA CASA PIZZARIA

Raelyn Ramey Photography

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2102082-01

SCENE-

TRENDS TEXT MAGGY LEMICKE

STEALERS

Lush greenery, rustic decor and bohemian accents dominated the 2018 wedding scene.

What will resonate with couples in 2019?

Here are seven trends to watch.

DEEP, MOODY PALETTES

PHOTO: LINDSAY NICKEL PHOTOGRAPHY

While soft pastels will always be in style, blush is tapering in popularity. Palettes are growing more intense, even moody, as jewel tones of purple, emerald and ruby become the new scene-stealers.

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PHOTOS: (ABOVE) CHRISTINA BLOCK PHOTOGRAPHY, (BELOW) BRETT BROONER PHOTOGRAPHY

MIX-AND-MATCH ATTIRE Coordinated looks for groomsmen and bridesmaids give way to mix-and-match wedding party style. The look is individualized yet cohesive. The bridesmaids might wear completely different dresses in the same color and fabric by the same designer.

Or different shades of your wedding color(s) in silhouettes of their choice. Some designers even are offering mix-and-match separates for that ultimate expression of individuality. Just think: A bridesmaid's dress that actually may be worn again!

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DAHLIAS

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) ALLISON MARKOVA PHOTOGRAPHY, DEANA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY, ANDREA BIBEAULT

The flower of the year is dahlia. Bursting in rich, vivid hues to complement deeper palettes, dahlia looks great with peonies, roses and other structured blooms.

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MODERN SPACES Exposed beams and duct work, brick walls and cement floors are the perfect backdrop for modern, minimalist weddings.

PHOTO: CHRIS CHRISTEN

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INTERACTIVE DINING EXPERIENCES

PHOTOS: (LEFT) SAM CLARK, (RIGHT) ONELOVE PHOTOGRAPHY

From food stations to bars with custom drinks, couples are stepping away from traditional reception formats. Tapas-style hors d’oeuvres and hamburger sliders are the newest wedding crashers, along with ethnic-fusion dishes and edible favors.

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GEOMETRIC ELEMENTS Google "geometric decor elements" and you'll get some 33.6 million results, most weddingrelated. The trend shows no sign of waning, especially among minimalist couples with modern tastes. In wedding gowns, geometric beading, sultry sheer panels, subtle trains and sculptural details counter ethereal boho silhouettes.

PHOTOS: (ABOVE) EMILY JESSEN PHOTOGRAPHY, (LEFT) DEMETRIOS

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TIARAS AND HALOS À la Meghan Markle and the royal wedding, brides-to-be are embracing princess-like tiaras and decorative headpieces.

Those who prefer the understated look may opt for a simple headband while the more lavish bride may be seen rocking pearl and jewel-adorned pieces fit for a queen.

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THEMED WEDDING

FALLING FOR AUTUMN

Couple's themed wedding pops with vibrant colors, fun characters STORY MELINDA KEENAN PHOTOGRAPHY MILAN LAZIC/ WS PHOTOGRAPHY OF CHICAGO

W

hen Ashley and Dan Bauman went looking for inspiration in planning their late October wedding, all they had to do was open their front door.

Brilliant colors of autumn with all the traditions that come with the season — blazing fires,

apple cider and Halloween — would inspire a festive and fun ceremony for friends and relatives traveling from all points of the country to their intimate wedding in northern Illinois.

Bright yellow, deep gold, pumpkin orange or CO N TI N U ED O N PA G E 86

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C O N T I N U ED FR O M PA G E 8 5

crimson red? The bride couldn’t choose so she used them all, starting with burgundy gowns for the bridesmaids and black tuxedos with orange silk vests, ties and pocket squares for the groomsmen.

Halloween monsters? Guests were seated at the “Dracula,” “King Kong,” “Zombie” and other monstrous tables. The newly minted Baumans even let their geek flag fly with a “Xenomorph” table, the technically correct term for the outerspace villains of the “Alien” films.

Fresh flower arrangements in autumn hues with red and purple accents decorated each table.

Guests used purple and pumpkin cloth napkins, and their plates were placed atop clusters of yellow and orange silk leaves.Votive candles in blackC O N T I N U ED O N PA G E 8 8

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C O N T I N U ED FR O M PA G E 8 6

lace holders added to the trick-or-treat décor.

Despite the rainy, blustery weather, guests were toasty warm as a blaze in a large fireplace served as the backdrop for the nuptials and another burning fireplace created ambiance at the reception.

Bringing even more of the outside into the ceremony, the flower girl’s basket of petals was

90

swapped for pressed leaves in every color.

The cake was spice, of course, and decorated with flowers, ribbon and leaves. A close inspection showed the white frosting had slashes and knots to resemble cords of white birch bark, complete with a “carved” heart surrounding initials “A + D”.

The Halloween theme was a treat for some guests, who schemed early in the day to play a

WINTER 2019 weddingessentialsmagazine.com

trick on the bride. Every guest at the Dracula table popped plastic fangs in their mouths and smiled as Ashley approached.

She laughed.

“You guys! I love it!” she said, embracing her guests.

Later, she and the groom posed with her bloodthirsty relatives — all smiles — for an official wedding photo.

 

weddingessentialsmagazine.com  91

2135719-01

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LOCAL VENDORS Accommodations

Attire + preservation

Cakes + catering

COURTYARD MARRIOTT

DAVID'S BRIDAL

CAKE BOX

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON DOWNTOWN

DILLARD'S

CAKE CREATIONS OMAHA

ELLYNNE BRIDAL

CATERING CREATIONS

GENTLEMAN'S CHOICE

CORNHUSKER BEVERAGE & BRIDAL

JOS. A BANK

HY-VEE

MEN'S WEARHOUSE

MAIN EVENT CATERING

OMAHA LACE CLEANERS

SAVE THE DATE CATERING

SAMPLE & SOIREE BY RHYLAN LANG

SIMPLY ELEGANT CAKES

SPOTLIGHT FORMAL WEAR

THE CAKE RENDEZVOUS

THE SIMPLE MAN

THE MATT BAR & GRILL

marriott.com

omahadowntown.doubletree.com EMBASSY SUITES LA VISTA

embassysuitesomahalavista.com HAMPTON INN, COUNCIL BLUFFS

hamptoninn3.hilton.com HILTON GARDEN INN

hiltongardeninn.hilton.com HILTON OMAHA

omaha.hilton.com HOLIDAY INN & SUITES/AMERISTAR

holidayinn.com HOTEL DECO

hoteldecoomaha.com LIED LODGE

liedlodge.org

MAGNOLIA OMAHA

magnoliahotels.com

davidsbridal.com dillards.com

ellynnebridal.com

omahatuxedos.com josbank.com

menswearhouse.com

omahalacecleaners.com sampleandsoiree.com

spotlightformalwear.com thesimplemanstore.com

cakecreationsomaha.com cateringcreations.com

cornhuskerbeverage.com hy-vee.com

cateringbymainevent.com

savethedatecateringandevents.com simply-elegant-cakes.com cakerendezvous.com themattomaha.com

VILLAMONTE'S CUISINE

omahapressclub.com

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Health + beauty

downtownomahamarriott.com

ARBONNE INTERNATIONAL

amylsmith.myarbonne.com BEAUTY BRANDS

beautybrands.com MARY KAY

marykay.com/skliewer

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Floral + event decor

Invitations + signage

Photo + video

402 EVENT SERVICES

CORNHUSKER BEVERAGE & BRIDAL

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MANGELSEN'S

LEAH MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

ALL SEASONS FLORAL

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allseasonsfloralomaha.com

cornhuskerbeverage.com mangelsens.com rsvpnotes.com

CHAIR COVER ELEGANCE

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HONEYMAN RENT-ALL

honeymanrentall.com

snapomaha.com borsheims.com GOLDSMITH SILVERSMITH

goldsmithsilversmith.com

MEMRICAL

memrical.com NOBBIES

nobbiesparties.com TMS LIGHTING

Registry + homes BORSHEIMS

borsheims.com Music + entertainment

MANGELSEN'S

mangelsens.com

SNAP OMAHA PHOTOBOOTH

BORSHEIMS

HY-VEE

hy-vee.com

makimages.com multi-images.com

Jewelry

eventsetcomaha.net

DREAM BIG EVENTS

leahmarie-photography.com

MULTI-IMAGES PHOTOGRAPHY

chaircoverelegance.net EVENTS ETCETERA

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CELEBRITY HOMES

celebrityhomesomaha.com 402 EVENT SERVICES

402eventservices.com

A SPECIAL EVENT – NEBRASKA

asenebraska.com

CELEBRITY CHINA & COOKWARE

celebritychina.com DILLARD'S

dillards.com

COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS

completeweddingomaha.com

tmslighting.com

Travel

UNITED RENT-ALL

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CUSTOM CRUISES & TRAVEL

ccruises.com

ENCHANTED HONEYMOONS

enchantedhoneymoons.com

TRAVEL DESIGN LOUNGE

traveldesignlounge.com

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 95

VENUE GUIDE LOCATION

CONTACT

BEARDMORE EVENT CENTER 3730 Raynor Parkway, Bellevue

MAX INSIDE

MAX OUTSIDE

402-408-5300 bellevueeventcenter.com

650

300

BELLA TERRE 23375 Barrus Road, Glenwood, IA

402-740-4176 bellaterre.com

400

275

CLUB AT INDIAN CREEK, THE 3825 N. 202nd St.

402-289-0900, ext.101 theclubatindiancreek.com

380

N/A

COTTONWOOD PAVILION 1309 W. Ferguson Road, Shenandoah, Iowa

712-370-1581 cottonwoodpavilion.com

300+

250

DELLA COSTA 220 S. 31st Ave.

402-614-5100 dellacostaomaha.com

180

300

DIAMOND ROOM, THE 605 N. 13th St.

402-915-0177 diamondroomomaha.com

600 cocktail 450 seated

N/A

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 1616 Dodge St.

402-636-4900 omahadowntown.doubletree.com

800

N/A

DOWNTOWN CLUB, THE 1510 Cuming St.

402-819-8792 omahadowntown.com

200

N/A

EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista

402-408-5470 embassysuitesomahalavista.com

2,500

N/A

EMPIRE ROOM Midtown Crossing

Opening April 2019 empireroomomaha.com

500

N/A

FIRST CENTRAL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 421 S. 36th St.

402-345-1533 firstcentral.org

600

N/A

FOUNDERS ONE·NINE 1915 Jackson St.

402-558-3272 foundersomaha.com

400

150

FOUNTAINS BALLROOM, THE 51496 230th St., Glenwood, Iowa

712-526-2426 thefountainsballroom.com

480

300

FOUNTAINS WEST, THE 4714 N. 120th St.

402-496-3000 thefountainsballroom.com

280

N/A

HENRY DOORLY ZOO & AQUARIUM 3701 S. 10th St.

402-738-2088 omahazoo.com

325

N/A

HILTON OMAHA 1001 Cass St.

402-998-4230 omaha.hilton.com

800

N/A

HOLLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 1200 Douglas St.

402-345-0202 omahaperformingarts.org

330

400

HOTEL DECO 1504 Harney St.

402-991-0486, ext. 238 hoteldecoomaha.com

130

N/A

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RENTALS

CEREMONY SITE

OUTSIDE CATERER

LOCATION

CONTACT

IL PALAZZO 5110 N. 132nd St.

MAX INSIDE

MAX OUTSIDE

402-493-8888 omahapalazzo.com

400

N/A

LAURITZEN GARDENS 100 Bancroft St.

402-346-4002 lauritzengardens.org

280

300

LIED LODGE/ARBOR DAY FARM 2700 Sylvan Road, Nebraska City

800-546-5433 liedlodge.org

450

350

MAGNOLIA OMAHA 1615 Howard St.

402-231-6062 magnoliahotels.com

250

250

MARRIOTT OMAHA DOWNTOWN CAPITOL DISTRICT 222 N. 10th St.

402-807-8000 downtownomahamarriott.com

850

2,000

OAK HILLS COUNTRY CLUB 12325 Golfing Green Drive

402-895-3636 oakhillscountryclub.org

245

N/A

THE MATT BAR & GRILL 501 N. 13th St.

402-932-0721 themattomaha.com

300

120

OMAHA DESIGN CENTER 1502 Cuming St.

402-819-8792 omahadesigncenter.com

600

N/A

OMAHA MARRIOTT, REGENCY 10220 Regency Circle

402-399-9000 omahamarriott.com

600

N/A

ORPHEUM THEATER 409 S. 16th St.

402-345-0202 omahaperformingarts.org

230

N/A

RALSTON ARENA 7300 Q St.

402-934-9966 ralstonarena.com

350

N/A

SCOTT CONFERENCE CENTER 6450 Pine St.

402-778-6317 scottcenter.com

500

N/A

SOUTH CREEK WEDDINGS & EVENTS 715 Grant St., Blair

402-426-8661 southcreekwe.com

550

225

STRATEGIC AIR COMMAND & AEROSPACE MUSEUM 28210 W. Park Highway, Ashland

402-944-3100 sacmuseum.org

500+

N/A

THE VENUE AT HIGHLANDER 2120 N. 30th St.

402-502-2770 highlanderomaha.com/thevenue

300

200

TIBURON GOLF CLUB 10302 S. 168th St.

402-896-1323 tiburongolf.com

400

300

UNMC TRUHLSEN CAMPUS EVENTS CENTER 619 S. 42nd St.

402-559-5192 unmc.edu/eventscenter

325

N/A

UNO THOMPSON ALUMNI CENTER 67th & Dodge St.

402-554-2444 thethompsoncenter.org

220

500

RENTALS

CEREMONY SITE

OUTSIDE CATERER

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 97

S M A L L B U S I N E S S D I R E C TO RY

A DV I C E

THE PROPER THANK-YOU COTTONWOOD PAVILION

GOLDSMITH SILVERSMITH

A small town venue that is big on history and charm. Only one wedding booked per weekend.

Quick jaunt from the Omaha metro area.

Designing and hand-crafting jewelr y for more than 45 years. Let us help create the perfect ring for the one you love.

1309 WEST FERGUSON ROAD, SHENANDOAH, IOWA 712-370-1581 COTTONWOODPAVILION.COM

1019 HOWARD ST. 402-342-1737 GOLDSMITHSILVERSMITH.COM

How to send your “thanks” with sincerity Texts and emails won’t do.

When it comes to thanking your guests for their gifts, a proper acknowledgment starts with pen and paper. If you have bad handwriting, a typed message on a personalized card is the next best thing.

Names If you’re using first names, list the woman’s name first in the note and on the envelope

RSVP Wedding & shower invitations, personalized stationer y, programs, planners and unique gifts.

8720 COUNTRYSIDE PLAZA 402-991-1881 RSVPNOTES.COM

Save the Date WEDDING ES S ENTI A L S IDEA S H OW 2 0 1 9

Oct. 20 MID-AMER I CA CENTER

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STRATEGIC AIR COMMAND & AEROSPACE MUSEUM Make your event memorable.

28210 WEST PARK HIGHWAY, ASHLAND 402-944-3100 SACMUSEUM.ORG

Length Three or four sentences will do.

Body Always reference the gift and how you plan to use it.

When acknowledging gifts of cash, checks or gift cards, the amount of the gift should not be mentioned. Add something personal about the gift-giver.

End your note by thanking them again, and sign both names.

Timeline Try to mail your thank-you notes within two weeks after your wedding.

—The editors of Wedding Essentials

We Have It All...Just For You multiple ballrooms for ceremonies + receptions high-end culinary offering rehearsal dinners + parties + showers guest accommodations spa services professional wedding coordination 1001 CASS STREET OMAHA, NEBRASKA 402-998-4230 www.omaha.hilton.com

MARRIOTT OMAHA DOWNTOWN CAPITOL DISTRICT

THE PERFECT PLACE TO START

photos by Trin Jensen Photography