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 dÊcor, 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
2102146-01 46
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. C O N TA C T N O W F O R A P E R S O N A L I Z E D P R O P O S A L 4 0 2 - 9 9 1 - 0 4 8 6 E X T 2 3 8
w w w. h o t e l d e c o o m a h a . c o m f a c e b o o k . c o m / o m a h a h o t e l d e c o | i n s t a g r a m . c o m / h o t e l d e co
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.
4 
FALL 2018   weddingessentialsmagazine.com
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.
2118947-03
Come Celebrate!
Weddings | Receptions | Rehearsal Dinners | Showers Custom food and bar menus included, patio available, impeccable service - all to make your special day perfect. Della Costa can provide everything you need to make it the most memora ble, easiest day of your life.
Reserve your special dates today! | 402-614-5100 | dellacostaomaha.com  weddingessentialsmagazine.com  7
We offer a wide variety of menus and planning services.
Let us save your date & make your perfect day
8 
FALL 2018   weddingessentialsmagazine.com
Please call for a consultation.
402-871-5708
savethedatecateringandevents.com
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.
Pinterest to
Party
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
XNSP34582
For all your
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  9
Y O U R V I S I O N . Y O U R S T Y L E . Y O U R B U D G E T.
VO L U M E 1 6 · I S S U E 3
30% OFF
EDITOR IN CHIEF Chris Christen chris.christen@owh.com
With Coupon
CREATIVE DIRECTOR & DESIGNER Heidi Hoffman hhoffman@owh.com
Wedding Invitations 2102082-01
ASSISTANT EDITOR Marjie Ducey marjie.ducey@owh.com COPY EDITOR Shelley Larsen shelley.larsen@owh.com CONTRIBUTORS Lane Weddings Emily Jessen Photography Deana Johnson Photography Megan Cash Photography Sam Areman Photography Kim Dyer Photography Haley Chicoine Photography Gleason Photography Mike Watkins Kurt A. Keeler
Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Specialists 10914 Elm Street, Rockbrook Village, Omaha, NE 68144 402-393-3436 or 877-393-3436 | www.ccruises.com
10
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
COVER PHOTO Sam Areman Photography ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Lauren Miller lauren.kruger@owh.com 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 Emily Gerhardt emily.gerhardt@owh.com
Wedding Essentials Magazine is a publication of the Omaha World-Herald. ©2018, 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
let the planning begin!
SIGN UP FOR OUR E-NEWSLETTER Say "yes" to more planning tips and inspiration! Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter and receive bonus content, exclusive offers, vendor recommendations and Real Weddings only seen online. We’re all about helping you plan your big day no matter what your budget. Click away and join the celebration! WEDDINGESSENTIALSMAGAZINE.COM
Wedding Packages Available!
Full Install & Takedown, indoor/outdoor Weddings
Protect Your Outdoor Celebrations
Holiday Lighting Packages Available to decorate your home, business or event in festive lighting.
Servicing Omaha, Lincoln and surrounding areas
18735 F Street, Omaha | 402-933-1985 | heroesholidaylighting.com 12 
FALL 2018   weddingessentialsmagazine.com
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
W E L C O M E N OT E
A DREAMY BEGINNING As our deadline for this issue was closing in, Assistant Editor Marjie Ducey had a wacky dream. We bet you can relate. Marjie dreamed she was getting married ... in a dress with a fishtail train that was heavily encrusted with something – exactly what, she's not sure. The bodice, which was separate, didn't arrive with the dress. "I was going to have to wear a turquoise tee! I was crazed,” Marjie shared. “When the top finally was delivered, it was some type of corset, and it was less than flattering on me! On top of that, I didn’t want to marry this man. I barely knew him, and I didn’t love him. I kept hoping that if I had hysterics long enough he would call it off, even though it was the last minute. Then, thankfully, I woke up!” We howled because Marjie isn’t engaged. But she has talked with enough brides to toss and turn right along with them. “This is how you know you’ve done too many Wedding Essentials stories,” she teased. More than likely she's on to something. A dream analyst probably would conclude that those wacky wedding nightmares are a sign that you’re overloaded and need
14
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
to take a little break. How convenient! This issue is just the thing to help you unwind. For fun, start with the hilarious wedding day anecdotes on page 96. Then flip to page 98 and see why we heartily agree with the venue host who observed, “Sometimes the crazy things that happen at weddings become the best stories of your life.” We often wonder how our Real Wedding couples are doing one year later. Turn to page 36 as we catch up with three and quiz them on their biggest wedding day regrets. It may come as no surprise that most of their advice is financial. The lesson? Focus on what you want and don't worry about your guests' expectations. In this issue we also delve into bouquet trends and floral tips, cost-saving strategies and venue considerations, with wedding couples weighing in. Not to be missed: Poignant stories of planning a wedding without your mom. Crave more? Sign up for our e-newsletter and get monthly inspiration sent directly to your inbox. Sweet dreams! Chris Christen
editor in chief
THE WEDDING ESSENTIALS TEAM
CHRIS CHRISTEN editor in chief
HEIDI HOFFMAN
creative director + designer
MARJIE DUCEY assistant editor
SHELLEY LARSEN copy editor
MARILYN MARTIN
account representative
LAUREN MILLER
TAM WEBB
advertising sales manager
event manager
ANDREA VIETH
EMILY GERHARDT
EMILY MARTIN
DEBORAH FERNSELL
advertising sales assistant
account representative
event coordinator
account representative
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 15
O N T H E C OV E R
SAM AREMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
styled shoot · page 30
16
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
PHOTOS (FROM LEFT): EMILY JESSEN PHOTOGRAPHY, EMILY JESSEN PHOTOGRAPHY, MEGAN CASH PHOTO
FA L L E D I T I O N 2 0 1 8
REAL COUPLES 20 wedding: brittany + brennan 42 wedding: justine + mark 54 wedding: kristin + adam 76 wedding: emily + salvatore STYLED SHOOTS 30 the perfect starry night 38 bridal accessories FEATURED VENDORS 66 wedding essentials idea show 94 unmc truhlsen center 102 the matt 106 small business directory 108 local vendors + venues
TRENDS + ADVICE 28 a wedding without mom 36 one year later 50 location love 62 share your wedding 64 how to stop second-guessing 73 flowers: dried & fresh 74 flower power 84 honeymoon: jamaica 88 the next wedding destination 90 give back to your parents 92 cutting costs 96 it happens 98 bring your own sunshine 100 weather watch weddingessentialsmagazine.com 17
REAL WEDDING
brittany & brennan DEANA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY · AUGUST 31, 2018 · THE OMAR
ALMOST NEIGHBORS The couple grew up 20 miles from each other and have all sorts of family connections. But that's not how they met. "We met the way any great modern-day love story begins: on Bumble,'' Brittany says. PHOTO SHOOT They went to Oregon after a wedding in San Diego and hiked to a secluded spot on the beach. Brennan set things up to take their picture in front of some rock formations and then got down on his knee and proposed. The whole thing is on tape. "We got to FaceTime family members, dance around, celebrate and soak it in for two hours and not a single person was down there with us,'' Brittany says. TWO STYLES The wedding was a blend of vintage and industrial chic. She wanted a very natural raw look as opposed to polished and ornate. The bouquets were wild-looking, and they had 11 different bridesmaid dresses, a textured cake, chippy vintage furniture and simple elegant tablescapes. They did a faux hedge photo wall, which everyone loved, and set up a huge head table for attendants and their plus ones. "It felt much more natural and was quite breathtaking,'' Brittany says. She's an event planner and somewhat thrifty, so it was important to her that she and her parents did most of the wedding planning and then carried out that vision. PERFECT WEATHER They had an outdoor ceremony, and for the whole week, even up until about 1 p.m. on the day of the wedding, they weren’t sure if the weather was going to hold out. They had a backup spot, but they had dreamed of being married in Elmwood Park's grotto. "After some time in prayer, we checked and the
storm had cleared, and it ended up being the most perfect evening for an outdoor ceremony,'' Brittany says. "We were so thankful.'' RAVE REVIEWS Guests loved the food, a nontraditional meal of street tacos and mac and cheese (their favorites) and elotes (Mexican street corn). Their DJ was also a hit, keeping everyone on the dance floor all night, and their photographer and videographer were willing to work with the weather changes. PERSONALIZE IT Think beyond traditions and focus on three things that are important to you as a couple, the two advise. "Make the day a display of your personalities and interests. Our guests seemed to love that.'' Talk through the hard things and grow toward marriage, they say. Then you won't be thrown by little details that don't go right on the big day. There was one funny incident. The groomsmen got stuck on an elevator for 45 minutes on the way to the photo session. Luckily, they left early. A bridesmaid had to be sewn into her dress after the zipper tore. PERFECT PRESENT So many of their gifts had a special meaning, but one stuck out. "An oil painting that our friend, who is a designer, hand-lettered a quote over. It captured who we are as a couple and was something that will always have sentimental value for us.'' TEAMMATES FOREVER Brennan says Brittany is the best teammate for life he could have asked for; her joy is contagious. Brittany says Brennan is patient and kind and keeps her from being swept away by her emotions. "We are learning to look out for each other and see that we are stronger as a unit than as two individuals.''
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  21
22
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  23
24
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  25
essential details THE COUPLE BRITTANY JOHNSON AND BRENNAN BURLING PHOTOGRAPHER DEANA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDING DATE AUGUST 31, 2018 REHEARSAL DINNER KIEWIT CLOUD ROOM CEREMONY ELMWOOD PARK GROTTO
from th e
Ceremony
to the
Reception ,
The Thompson Alumni Center is a beautiful, prime location for your
Wedding Day
RECEPTION THE OMAR VIDEOGRAPHER ROLAND MASSOW PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILM BRIDAL GOWN ALLURE BRIDAL FROM NEBRASKA BRIDAL, WAHOO ACCESSORIES VEIL AND EARRINGS FROM NEBRASKA BRIDAL; SHOES, KATE SPADE KEDS
HAIRSTYLIST TONIA JELINEK AND VANESSA MOORE MAKEUP ARTIST ELENA ROJAS FROM MODEL PERFECT AIRBRUSH BRIDESMAID DRESSES ASOS AND JJ’S HOUSE
The Thompson Center 402-554-3368g
67th & Dodge • Omaha www.thethompsoncenter.orgg 2119290-01
MEN’S ATTIRE GROOM’S SUIT IS FROM ASOS, ALL MEN WORE DAZI TIES, GROOMSMEN WORE JF J. FERRAR PANTS AND PROVIDED THEIR OWN SHIRTS, SHOES AND BELTS RINGS EMBR (GROOM) AND DIAMOND NEXUS (BRIDE)
JOIN US! BECOME A
FLORIST STONY BROOK HY-VEE (BRIDE’S BOUQUET); BRIDE MADE BRIDESMAIDS' BOUQUETS
CAKE OMAHA CAKE DESIGN CATERER ATTITUDE ON FOOD (FOOD) AND EDDIE’S CATERING (BAR)
RENTALS UNITED RENT-ALL, GIBBS AND NOSTALGIA RENTALS MUSIC IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT INVITATIONS/PROGRAMS WILDFIRE VISUALS (GROOM’S GRAPHIC DESIGN BUSINESS)
GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS HAMPTON INN AKSARBEN VILLAGE
Blog with us. Share your planning journey with other local couples and enjoy a few perks along the way. Visit our website for application and details.
WEDDING COORDINATOR/EVENT PLANNER THE BRIDE AND HER PARENTS; DAY OF COORDINATION AND DECORATING HELP BY BETH WAKEFIELD
HONEYMOON NEGRIL, JAMAICA; ENCHANTED TRAVEL weddingessentialsmagazine.com 27
A DV I C E
Two brides share tips for embracing sweet memories T E X T MARJIE DUCEY
ABBEY LOUGHMAN didn’t think about it when she first got engaged. Then a cousin and one of her best friends started planning their weddings. And "me and my mom" become a familiar refrain. "My mom and I looked at dresses." "My mom and I picked out our venue.’’ Abbey didn’t realize until then how much planning a wedding is a mother-daughter bonding experience. The 23-year-old lost her mom, Cherise, in a car accident May 15, 2001.
28
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
ROCKING J IMAGING
A WEDDING WITHOUT MOM Jamie Nickeson and Randy Null
“All of a sudden, it hit me super hard. I was so lonely planning this wedding,’’ she says. “No one could fix it. No one could give me the same feeling I was looking for.’’ She kept her growing sadness to herself, and then realized how important it was to share her feelings with her future husband. In a strange twist of fate, her fiance, Jacob Williams, lost a brother on the same date but in a different year. She's convinced their loved ones had a hand in their meeting.
“We really are a match made in heaven,’’ Abbey says. Jamie Nickeson and Randy Null were married last April. Jamie’s mom,Vicky, died of cancer in 2013 but for Jamie, it was a blessing that her mom at least had met Randy. “I was just so happy they got to meet, even if we didn’t know at the time that he would be the man I would end up marrying,’’ Jamie says. “It gave me a lot of comfort.’
Abb
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ABBEY LOUGHMAN
ey's m
om,
Che
rise
Lou
ghm
an
» Abbey Loughman and fiance, Jacob Williams
HOW TO GET THROUGH THOSE TOUGH DAYS » Share your feelings with your fiance, friends or family. Abbey says she let her sadness build and build until finally talking with Jacob. “He just listened, and that helped.’’ » Let others contribute to the process. Both Abbey and Jamie say they’re the type who just plow through things by themselves. Don’t worry about being a nuisance. “I was taking everything on myself despite people wanting to help,’’ Jamie says. “I almost wish I would have allowed more people to help.’’ » It’s not the same, but your bridal party or a family member or friend can still create special moments along the way. Abbey’s stepmother, Heather Loughman, and her mom’s best friend, Paula Spears, and her daughter
Anna, helped Abbey pick out her dress. “I could not have asked for a better small group of people to be here for me,’’ Abbey says. » Remember that you are creating a family of your own. Someday Abbey and Jamie hope they can plan a wedding with their own daughters. » Think about ways you can remember your special person at the wedding. Abbey and Jacob will have a memory table with pictures, candles and flowers. Jamie asked people who knew her mom well how she might have liked to be remembered. That prompted Jamie to place a photo of her mom on a chair next to her father. The bride's mom was mentioned in the program, and the officiant surprised the
couple with a moment of silence at the start of the ceremony. “That was super special to me,’’ Jamie says. “I was pretty emotional. Just remembering her presence and knowing she was with us in spirit.’’ Jamie says she thought of her mom at different moments, like when she was donning her wedding dress. Instead of pushing that sad moment away, she tried to embrace it and make it joyful. Abbey has a plan for that at her reception. She has special memories of mother and daughter dancing in the living room to Cher’s, “Believe.’’ “That song is going to be blaring,’’ she says, “and I am going to be dancing my tail off and singing at the top of my lungs.’’
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 29
Rin g
th
ity eC
ound Ar
MAGNOLIA OMAHA 1615 HOWARD ST. 402-231-6026 MAGNOLIAHOTELS.COM
THE PERFECT
starry NIGHT
30
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
S T Y L E D S H O OT
The stars align in a styled shoot that captures the romantic ambiance of Magnolia Omaha. Celebrating under a canopy of twinkling lights in the intimate courtyard is as dreamy as love itself. The memory of each detail, simply stellar.
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  31
32
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
Willoby by Watters, Orion gown RHYLAN LANG
Carol Hannah, Pandorus gown RHYLAN LANG
ART DIRECTION & STYLING heidi hoffman LOCATION magnolia hotel omaha EVENT FURNITURE step group inc. GOWNS rhylan lang RINGS & ACCESSORIES borsheims FLORAL lindsay elizabeth events HAIRSTYLIST amee wright, urbane salon & day spa MAKEUP ARTIST olivia folmer, urbane salon & day spa MODEL hope, develop model management PAPER GOODS rsvp PHOTOGRAPHY sam areman photography
34
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
2066350-01
W W W.AT T I T U D EO N F O O D.C O M | 402 341 3663 WEDDING RECEPTIONS | REHEARSAL DINNERS | BRIDAL SHOWERS
Breathtaking golf course views. Rehearsal Dinner, Reception Venue and Ceremony Site Easy access off I-80.
TIBURONGOLF.COM HWY 370 & 168TH ST • 402.896.1323 2102 22102063-01 1102 002206 06633-011
2118877-01
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 35
A DV I C E
OCTOBER 3, 2017
OCTOBER 21, 2017
SEPTEMBER 2, 2017
LINDSAY & TOM
KATY & SKIP
CHRISTINE & JON
a year later...
Three couples talk of challenges, surprises and growing love Lindsay and Tom were married at the top of a mountain. Christine and Jon gained fame after the bride’s allergic reaction to her flowers. Katy and Skip celebrated with two Nebraska favorites: Runzas and DQ. How has life gone since their big day? WE couldn't wait to find out!
36
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
LINDSAY & TOM ARRANCE
KATY & SKIP JOYCE
CHRISTINE & JON MILLER
Wedding Date: Oct. 3, 2017
Wedding Date: Oct. 21, 2017
Wedding Date: Sept. 2, 2017
Q. How has your relationship changed
Q. Looking back, is there anything you would change about your wedding? A. I wouldn't change a thing. Except, I do regret not being able to sample our killer charcuterie station. I also totally missed the end-of-thenight cigar station, which I would have liked to experience.
Q. Looking back, is there anything you would change about your wedding? A. I wouldn’t have picked my own flowers (and spared myself an allergic reaction that generated international attention once the story broke in The Omaha World-Herald). But being on "The Steve Harvey Show" and getting multiple free trips and extra income from talk show interviews and appearances have been fun. The memories made post-wedding are so much more than our wedding day.
with marriage? A. Because we lived together for quite a while before marriage, we had already gone through a lot of the major adjustments newly married couples go through. That being said, we continue to learn and grow as a couple every day. We are definitely closer for becoming parents, and I have fallen in love all over again with qualities I never even recognized in Tom before our son arrived.
Q. Looking back on your wedding, what is the one thing you would have changed? A. I wish we wouldn't have gotten legally married a year prior to the actual wedding. I didn’t want to make a big deal of it because I wanted to save it for the big day, so we kind of rushed through everything. I feel like we missed out on the “OMG were married!!!” feeling. Q. Were you happy with how much you spent on the wedding? A. We could have spend a little less, but overall I was satisfied with how we chose to spend our money. We had help financially from his mother and my parents, which was huge – had we not had that, we would definitely have had to cut a lot of costs.
Q. What's your biggest piece of planning advice? A. Decide what’s really important to you and your spouse. Don’t get wrapped up in wedding “etiquette” and what you’re “supposed” to do. The day is yours, and you should spend your hard-earned money on what’s important to you.
Q. Were you happy with how much you spent on the wedding? A. We ended up a bit over budget, which was expected with a large wedding. I am super lucky that my parents footed the bill, so it hasn't been a burden for us financially. Thanks, Mom and Dad! Q. What's your biggest piece of advice to someone planning a wedding? A. Try not to let it take over your life. Choose a designated day (like #weddingwednesday) to do all your wedding-related correspondence, and live your life the rest of the time. Create a designated email address for wedding planning. Q. What has turned out to be your best/ most practical wedding gift? A. The cash gifts. They funded a lot of the honeymoon. I also loved the Airbnb gift cards we received. Q. What has been the biggest challenge of married life? A. I travel a ton for my career, so that has been something new to navigate that's been difficult. It's hard to feel as connected as you want when you can't communicate or the time difference is inconvenient.
Q. What's your best advice to other couples? A. Nobody will remember what shade of napkins you had at your wedding. Have fun with it and don’t let it suck every minute of your life from you! Focus on the fact that you get to marry the love of your life, not what your guests will think of your hair, dress, décor, chairs, etc. Q.Your favorite or most practical gift? A. Towels and anything in our kitchen. They're all used daily. Q. How crazy is it to already have a baby?
A. We found out we were expecting two months after our wedding (on our honeymoon) and celebrated our first anniversary with our newborn daughter. Although my husband was not mentally prepared to be a father so soon, spending our anniversary staring at her was truly a blissful moment. Q. What have been your biggest challenges? A. Socks. Underwear. Dirty work clothes that still cannot make it into the laundry basket. weddingessentialsmagazine.com 37
S T Y L E D S H O OT
38
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
alluring accessories A bridal look isn't complete without a touch of bling PHOTOGRAPHY & STYLING heidi hoffman ACCESSORIES blush bridal boutique
You've found your dream dress and now it's time to add that extra-special sparkle for a look that's totally you. We've got our eyes on these pieces from the LoveBird collection at Blush Bridal Boutique in Lincoln. Take a few style tips from the WE editors: 1. Bring your hair accessory, veil and/or earrings to your hair and makeup trial appointments. 2. If you're swapping your veil for a statement hair accessory after the ceremony, consider asking your hairstylist to show you how. That way there's no confusion on the day of your wedding. 3. You don't want to spend the day fidgeting with a bracelet if it's not an accessory you normally wear. Give it a test run a few days prior to the wedding.
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  39
40
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
2118572-01
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  41
REAL WEDDING
justine & mark EMILY JESSEN PHOTOGRAPHY · OCTOBER 28, 2017 · COTTONWOOD PAVILION, SHENANDOAH
BENSON BEGINNING They grew up a mile apart but never knew each other in school. They met one night in Benson in 2015. "Mark got my number, but we didn't go on our first date for over six months. We have spent every day together since.'' HE REELED HER IN They enjoy spending lazy weekends camping along the river just north of Fremont. One morning Mark asked Justine if she wanted to take the dog for a walk along the riverbank to their favorite spot. It was a beautiful, sunny morning, Justine recalls. "Mark spotted something on the ground and stopped. It was a wine bottle with a note inside. I picked it up and read the note: 'Will you marry me?' I turned around and he was down on one knee.'' FALL COLORS They love the simpler things in life but wanted something special for their guests and themselves on their big day. Because the ceremony was in the fall, they loved the idea of a rustic backdrop filled with beautiful refined floral and greenery. Justine says to trust your instincts. "It is so easy to become overwhelmed by all of the choices and Pinterest boards, but feel confident in your vision and roll with it.'' LIKE MINDS They both used a line from "Parks and Recreation" in their vows: "I love you and I like you.'' "We wrote our
42
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
own vows and had no idea the other was using it.'' SUCH DEVOTED SISTERS Justine has three sisters and during the father-daughter dance, her dad suggested that they bring them all out onto the floor. "One by one they joined us,'' Justine says. "It was a great moment.'' For the song, he picked "The Cape,'' which he often played while they were growing up. WELL-ROUNDED TREAT Their glazed doughnut wall was a huge hit. The doughnuts came from The Donut Stop in Shenandoah, Iowa. "We loved it and our guests really enjoyed it as well,'' Justine says. "One guest said he had seven doughnuts.'' HOUSE WARMERS Gift cards to The Home Depot were the best present, the couple says. "We were remodeling a house at the same time as the wedding, and it helped so much.'' They bought the old post office in Leshara, Nebraska, and the renovations took six months. NO SURPRISES They felt comfortable with each other before the wedding, so there were no big revelations. Mark says Justine takes care of them and always has the family's best interests in mind. Justine says Mark is the most genuine person she knows. "I have never felt more loved than when I am with him.''
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  43
44
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  45
46
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  47
48
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
essential details THE COUPLE MARK GRIMM AND JUSTINE DUNKER PHOTOGRAPHER EMILY JESSEN PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDING DATE OCTOBER 28, 2017 REHEARSAL DINNER WABASH WINE COMPANY, SHENANDOAH, IOWA
CEREMONY AND RECEPTION COTTONWOOD PAVILION, SHENANDOAH
VIDEOGRAPHER ONE WAY VISUAL BRIDAL GOWN JARLO LONDON ACCESSORIES VEIL, ETSY; EARRINGS, RIVKA FRIEDMAN; JACKET, BB DAKOTA (CUSTOM PAINTED BY EMILY JESSEN) HAIRSTYLIST JILL ELL MAKEUP ARTIST MAKEUP BY KRISTAL BRIDESMAID DRESSES VARIOUS SOURCES MEN’S ATTIRE JOS. A. BANK, SUITS; ASOS TIES RINGS ENGAGEMENT RING, ETSY; WEDDING BAND, FAMILY HEIRLOOM; GROOM'S WEDDING RING, ETSY FLORIST CREATING ATMOSPHERE
2082330-01
Celebrate your day
CAKE NOTHING BUNDT CAKES/THE DONUT STOP CATERER KATY’S CATERING RENTALS CREATING ATMOSPHERE MUSIC B.S. MUSIC TRANSPORTATION LIMEOZENE PARTY BUS INVITATIONS/PROGRAMS BRIDE, PRINTED AT PHYSICIANS MUTUAL
GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS SHENANDOAH INN & SUITES WEDDING COORDINATOR/EVENT PLANNER CREATING ATMOSPHERE
HONEYMOON COSTA RICA
AWARD WINNING Wedding Venue in Omaha EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON LA VISTA HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER www.embassysuitesomahalavista.com 402.408.5470
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 49
TRENDS
LOCATION LOVE How will you tell your story in photos? T E X T MARJIE DUCEY P H OTO G R A P H Y HALEY CHICOINE PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTOGRAPHER HALEY CHICOINE calls them love sessions. It’s not an engagement shoot, although the photo outings do give couples a chance to become comfortable with someone who might someday take their wedding pictures. It's more to celebrate another stage in a relationship. “It’s really awesome to get to know them and talk about their interests and what their ideal date is and incorporate that into their shoot,’’ Chicoine says. She enjoys the challenge of taking those photos with a twist. Hence a gas station and a Mexican restaurant. Her brother, Dylan, asked Haley to take some pictures of him and girlfriend Gabriele Keck before they moved to Michigan together. They’re both extroverted and wanted something different. “You’d never guess a gas station would be so romantic ... or fun, vibrant and exciting,’’ Haley says. Allie Laing and Alex Rapp love tacos, so when Chicoine suggested the old-school vibe at D’Leon’s Taco Rico in Lincoln they were all in, Rapp says. continued on page 53
50
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  51
52
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
continued from page 50
“I didn’t feel like a lot of what I was doing was staged,’’ he says. “We were legitimately eating. We were just kind of goofing around.’’ Lang says Chicoine made it fun and eased jitters about not knowing their photographer well. “Alex and I are both super adventurous. We love going to different restaurants and places,’’ Lang says. “To be able to capture that in a photo was super cool.’’ Not every couple, Chicoine says, fits a park or downtown Omaha setting. These shoots were for couples who wanted to showcase their love and be a little more creative. “People are gearing away from what is traditional and normal,’’ Chicoine says. “Most people are seeing how creative and outside the box photography can be.’’ Some couples might be homebodies, so an engagement shoot in their house might be their cup of tea. Another couple Chicoine worked with is obsessed with fall, so they headed to a pumpkin patch. Laing says the parking lot at a restaurant isn’t pictureperfect, but in their case, it turned out great. “It added to how much we loved the photos at the end,’’ she says. “It was so much just like us, rather than if we had a picnic in the park.’’ That the location was unique makes the photo stand out for them and be even more memorable, especially if you have a connection to the place like Allie and Alex do. Chicoine tells her couples they don’t have to fit a certain mold. She says things should happen naturally, in a location that says something about the people she’s shooting. “I want their photos to look and feel like them.’’
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 53
54
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
REAL WEDDING
kristen & adam LANE WEDDINGS · MAY 19, 2018 · SUZANNE AND WALTER SCOTT AQUARIUM
NOISE COMPLAINT The two met at Creighton University, when they lived in the same dorm. Kristen knocked on Adam’s door because he was playing his guitar too loud. “We’ve hit it off ever since,’’ Kristen says. ANOTHER TEST The week before finals, Adam proposed with a scavenger hunt around their favorite places in downtown Omaha. He popped the question on the rooftop of Old Market Lofts. “It was very romantic!’’ PART OF YOUR WORLD They dreamed of an elegant under-the-sea theme. “We wanted it to be enchanting, formal, fun and unique. It’s not every day you get to dance with the fish.’’ The best part was walking around in the zoo in their wedding attire and receiving congrats from visitors. They said hello to the giraffes and elephants and even had a porcupine, tortoise and macaw at their cocktail hour. They set up lounge furniture in the shark tunnel for guests who wanted to sit and visit. SEA THEME Their invitations featured a coral motif in gold foil. The tables had symbols of sea creatures instead of numbers. The escort cards were seashells with a white chocolate covered cherry in the middle. The dessert bar had clam-shaped macaroons and sea horse s’mores, and the cake had seashell and bubble details. Their signature drinks included the Mermaid Margarita and Great White Whiskey. Each bridesmaid got a matching sea turtle tote bag. SPECIAL PLACE Neither of them are from here, but Omaha and Creighton’s campus will always hold extraordinary memo-
ries. “It’s where we grew together as a couple,’’ Kristen says. “Standing on the altar in front of God at the place we met with all of our family and friends as witnesses. It’s just too magical to describe.’’ WELCOME, GUESTS Because so many in the wedding party were from out of town, the couple had cute welcome bags and maps of the zoo for everyone. They also had a reception after the rehearsal dinner so people had extra time to socialize. DANCING DUO The couple went to Omaha Ballroom for dance lessons before the wedding. It was a fun weekly date night. “It also saved us the stress of having all eyes on us while we swayed awkwardly back and forth,’’ Kristen says. “Neither of us knew how to ballroom dance.’’ Instead of a bouquet toss, they had an anniversary dance and gave the toss bouquet to the couple married the longest. VIDEO TREASURE They didn’t want to miss a minute of the wedding, and they enjoy looking back on their big day. Creating Atmosphere transformed the space beyond their wildest dreams and took care of every detail, leaving them to enjoy friends and family. “It is easy to get caught up in all the small details of wedding planning and lose sight of the vows you are making to each other,’’ Kristen says. BUSY LIVES Kristen is finishing pharmacy school so things are hectic. “Adam has picked up the slack in every way,’’ she says. “I couldn’t imagine a more loving, giving husband.’’
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 55
56
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  57
58
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  59
60
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
essential details THE COUPLE ADAM SCHMIDT AND KRISTEN SZYMBORSKI PHOTOGRAPHER LANE HICKENBOTTOM OF LANE WEDDINGS WEDDING DATE MAY 19, 2018 REHEARSAL DINNER BLUE SUSHI, CATERED BY ROJA CEREMONY ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH AT CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY
RECEPTION HENRY DOORLY ZOO & AQUARIUM VIDEOGRAPHER KRIHA FILMS BRIDAL GOWN MARTINA LIANA, BELLA BIANCA BRIDAL IN OAKBROOK, ILLINOIS ACCESSORIES MARTINA LIANA, BELLA BIANCA BRIDAL HAIRSTYLIST UPDO.TOYOU, LINDSEY WALDRON MAKEUP ARTIST MODEL PERFECT AIRBRUSH BRIDESMAID DRESSES AZAZIE MEN’S ATTIRE MEN’S WEARHOUSE
The absolute best in gown care.
RINGS HELZBERG DIAMONDS FLORIST CREATING ATMOSPHERE CAKE THE CAKE GALLERY CATERER ATTITUDE ON FOOD RENTALS CREATING ATMOSPHERE MUSIC KARLYN MUSIC, CEREMONY; JESSE SWANSON, CHAOS PRODUCTIONS, RECEPTION TRANSPORTATION VIP LIMO INVITATIONS/PROGRAMS HADLEY DESIGNS GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS EMBASSY SUITES DOWNTOWN AND RESIDENCE INN DOWNTOWN
WEDDING COORDINATOR/EVENT PLANNER CREATING ATMOSPHERE
HONEYMOON DISNEYLAND, OAHU AND MAUI
Omaha Lace Cleaners & Bridal Center Bridal & Special Occasion Gown Alterations, Cleaning, Pressing, Wedding Day Gown Transportation, Restoration and Preservation
Our design specialist can help you with all your bridal needs. 5007 Leavenworth and 1150 Sterling Ridge Drive, Suite #106
OmahaLaceCleaners.com weddingessentialsmagazine.com 61
SHARE YOUR WEDDING Fill out the submission form online at weddingessentialsmagazine.com PHOTO: HEIDI HOFFMAN GOWN: RHYLAN LANG
62
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
Submission Requirements 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). A 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.
Raelyn Ramey Photography
u r b a n . c h i c . e x t r a o r d i n a r y. Contact Us Today!
A 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 above. 2019 SUBMISSION DEADLINES February 19, 2019 (Spring Issue), May 22, 2019 (Summer Issue), August 20, 2019 (Fall Issue) and November 12, 2019 (Winter 2020 Issue). Please note that we have a committee that reviews all submissions and it may take a few weeks before you get a response. Final selection brides & photographers will be notified after the submission deadline. 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 can be non-exclusive. QUESTIONS? Send us an email at chris.christen@owh.com.
605 N. 13th Street | Omaha, NE 68102 | 402.915.0177 sales@diamondroomomaha.com | www.diamondroomomaha.com
1996123-01
Have a destination wedding without leaving town. Say, “I do” at the Zoo. Celebrate your day in the newly completed Education Conference Center at the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium, featuring a 24’ tropical reef aquarium. For rental details, call (402) 738-2088.
All submission requirements must be met. Incomplete submissions will not be accepted. weddingessentialsmagazine.com 63
• Involve as few people as possible in your planning so you aren't overwhelmed with advice. Everyone will have ideas about the best place for a reception or the most amazing photographer.
A DV I C E
SECOND-GUESSING YOUR WEDDING DETAILS? Do what makes you happy. T E X T MARJIE DUCEY
TAYLOR AND MICHAEL VANN at first wanted just a small wedding at home with only their closest relatives. They ended up being married in Iceland. What led to the huge change of plans? Taylor's dad is one of 12 children. And the pressure of trying to accommodate all of those aunts, uncles and cousins became overwhelming. "It was too much for me, and I really didn't want to say no to all of those people,'' Taylor says. "So, Michael and I had another heart to heart, and I made him watch a few episodes of "Four Weddings" to show him the drama of ceremonies. We immediately scheduled our Iceland wedding.'' Taylor was afraid her mom would be
64
upset with the decision to leave their relatives behind. But when Taylor asked Maribeth Jackson about going away for the wedding, she replied, "It's your day, not mine. Do what would make you happiest.'' That's solid advice for any couple. Some decisions may keep you up at night. And others, after the fact, seem just plain silly. "This sounds ridiculous, but I think the thing I was most indecisive about was silverware,'' says Tanna Piniarski. "They had two different gold ones to chose from, and one would change the look of the tables. I can't even remember which one I went with!'' If you keep second-guessing your decisions, here's some help.
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
• If your parents are paying for a large chunk of the wedding, they deserve some input. However, as a couple, decide beforehand just what decisions they will be involved in and communicate that to your parents to prevent any misunderstandings or assumptions. • Discuss early in your planning what is most important to you both. Make those items the priority, and the rest will fall into place. Keep that list short! • Trust your vendors and your wedding planner. They're experts and will oftentimes come up with the perfect solution if you can't reach a decision. Especially if you are very clear about what you want and like. • Make a budget and stick with it. It's amazing how much easier decisions can be if you know you have only a certain amount to spend. • Don't get caught up in all the minute details.Your guests just want to enjoy your special day with you, and won't notice the exact gold of your silverware. • And remember: This is just the first step in the journey. It's really all about spending the rest of your life together with the person you love. Source: Brides.com
2118579-01
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  65
A n O m a h a Wo r l d - H e r a l d E v e n t
a wedding show like no other OCTOBER 7, 2018 MID-AMERIC A CENTER
OFFICIAL SHOW PROGRAM
LOVE IT. ENVISION IT. BOOK IT.
the idea show
is your destination for visual inspiration! Have your camera ready because the focus here is on emerging trends in gorgeous tablescapes, fabulous florals, dreamy wedding attire and more!
BOUTIQUE SPONSORS
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 67
Find the perfect style for ever yone in your wedding par ty.
11:30 A.M. • • • •
David's Bridal Men's Wearhouse Dream Dress Express Tip Top Tux
12:30 P.M. • • • •
David's Bridal Men's Wearhouse Ellynne Bridal Gentleman's Choice
RUNWAY DREAM TEAM M U S I C & N A R R AT I O N Complete Weddings + Events C H A I R C OV E R S Chair Cover Elegance MODELS Develop Model Management
Be inspired by the latest wedding decor, flowers and sweets. FIRESIDE GATHERING Memrical, Dillard’s, David’s Bridal, Gentleman’s Choice URBAN JUNGLE Events Etcetera, Dream Dress Express, Men’s Wearhouse
Our exhibitors show you how to bring ideas to life in gorgeous vignettes for ever y taste and style . BRIDAL SHOWER Dillard’s, Mad Ox Baker y, Cake Creations Omaha, Wowfactore , Cornhusker Beverage & Bridal OUTDOOR WEDDING A Special Event DJ, Wowfactore
68
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
LUSCIOUS LAVENDER Marriott Omaha Downtown, Ellynne Bridal, David’s Bridal, Tip Top Tux DESERT SUNSET Dream Big Events, Dream Dress Express, Gentleman’s Choice HIGH EXPECTATIONS United Rent-All
402 EVENT SERVICES
Two-panel lit backdrop, $300 value BEARDMORE EVENT CENTER
Bistro Credit at Courtyard Marriott Bellevue, $25 value C A K E C R E AT I O N S O M A H A
Gift card, $50 value CELEBRITY CHINA & COOKWARE
12-piece china set, $480 value COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS
Free uplighting, $495 value CORNHUSKER BEVERAGE & BRIDAL
100 tall customized wedding programs, $125 value DILLARD'S
Instant Pot, $100 value D O U B L E T R E E O M A H A D OW N TOW N
Night stay + 2 Dinner Detective tickets, $350 value ELLYNNE BRIDAL
Gift card toward new gown, $250 value MEMRICAL
Event rentals, $250 value GENTLEMAN'S CHOICE FORMAL WEAR
MARRIOTT OMAHA DOWNTOWN, CAPITOL DISTRICT
Gift card, $500 value
Free night stay, $250 value
HILTON GARDEN INN, COUNCIL BLUFFS
MEN'S WEARHOUSE
Free night stay, $150 value
Free tux/suit rental package, $240 value
HILTON OMAHA
MULTI-IMAGES PHOTOGRAPHY
Free night stay with breakfast, $250 value
Free engagement session, $395 value
HOG WILD PIT-BAR-B-Q
T H E M AT T
Gift card, $50 value
Gift card, $50 value
HY-VEE
SOUTHCREEK WEDDINGS & EVENTS
Pre-wedding snacks, $125 value
Venue rental discount, $500 value
LIED LODGE & CONFERENCE CENTER
WILLIAMS-SONOMA
Free night stay with breakfast, $200 value
Wusthof paring knife & scissors, $65 value Vitamix "Simply Entertaining" cookbook, $25 value Cuisinart Elements 8" skillet, $20 value GreenPan mini fry pan, $10 value Le Creuset set of 2 au gratin dishes, $50 value Breville bamboo cutting board, $40 value
MAD OX BAKERY
Gift card, $50 value MAIN EVENT CATERING
Free night stay, $229 value
*PRIZE DISCLAIMER: The winners will be randomly drawn and contacted by the Omaha World-Herald no later than October 19, 2018. Winners will be asked to contact the donating business to arrange for pick up of prize. Each winner assumes all liability for any injury or damages caused or claimed to be caused by the acceptance and/or use of any prize and releases the Omaha World-Herald, and each of their respective owners, affiliates, officers, directors and employees, from any such liability. Each winner is responsible for payment of all taxes, licenses and permits of any nature associated with receipt of prize.
Couples are automatically registered for these prizes.
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 69
idea show exhibitors
402 Event Services
Hilton Garden Inn West Omaha
Scott Conference Center
A Special Event DJ
Hilton Omaha
Simply Elegant Cakes
Arbonne International
Hog Wild Pit BAR-B-Q
Southcreek Wedding & Events
Home2 West Omaha
Spotlight Formal Wear
Hotel Deco XV
Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
Hy-Vee
Tip Top Tux
Lied Lodge & Conference Center
TMS Lighting
Mad Ox Bakery
United Rent-All
Magnolia Hotel Omaha
Villamonte’s Cuisine
Main Event Catering
Williams-Sonoma
Marriott Omaha Downtown, Capitol District
Wowfactore
Amy Smith Independent Consultant
Arête Med Spa Beardmore Event Center, Bellevue Bed Bath & Beyond Cake Creations Omaha Celebrity China & Cookware Chair Cover Elegance Complete Weddings + Events Cornhusker Beverage & Bridal Custom Cruises & Travel
Suzanne Kliewer Independent Consultant
David's Bridal
Memrical
Dillard's
Men's Wearhouse
Doubletree by Hilton
Multi-Images Photography
Dream Big Events
Nia Jones Orthodontics
Dream Dress Express
Nick Fleissner Music
Ellynne Bridal
Nuri Event Studio
Embassy Suites LaVista
Old Mattress Factory
Enchanted Honeymoons Travel
Omaha Design Center
Events Etcetera
Omaha Lace Cleaners
Fountains Ballroom & Vineyard
Omaha Press Club
Gentleman's Choice Formal Wear
Omaha World-Herald
Glory Visuals
Pottery Barn
Heroes Holiday & Event Lighting
Ralston Arena
Hilton Garden Inn Council Bluffs
Save the Date Catering
special thanks
70
Mary Kay Cosmetics
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
GROOM’S GIVEAWAY
O N E LU C K Y G R O O M W I L L R E C E I V E :
• A PA MPERING SESSI O N F O R G RO O M AND G R O OM S M E N PA R T Y ( UP TO 1 0 ) AT T HE S UR LY C HA P. INCLU D ES A CU T, SH AVE, CO F F EE , PAST R I E S A N D A S P E C I A L G I F T F O R T H E G R O OM !
/ VALUE OF
$750
• A C USTOM SUI T O R TUXED O P R OV I D ED BY J E R RY RYA N C LOT HI N G , T H E E X P E R TS I N W E DDI N G W E A R FOR 40+ YE A R S !
Jerry Ryan / V A L U E O F $ 1, 2 0 0 CLOTHING AND SPORTSWEAR
REG I STER F R OM OCTOBER 3 R D -OCTOBER 17 th , 2018 AT OMAHA.COM/GROOMSCONTE ST *Register online through October 17th 2018. Winner will be announced on October 22, 2018. One winner will be randomly selected from all entries. Subject to official rules, no purchase necessary to enter. Must be at least 18 years or older and live within 50 miles of Omaha, NE 68102 zip code to enter. Must be engaged. Individual prize rules and regulations may apply. Must book with Surly Chap AFTER January 1st, 2019. Gratuity not included. Limit to 10 males in party
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 71
72
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
TRENDS
THE LATEST FLORAL COMBO:
dried & fresh T E X T MARJIE DUCEY
P H OTO G R A P H Y HEIDI HOFFMAN
AUTUMN IS THE PERFECT TIME TO incorporate dried flowers in weddings. Many times floral designers already are using branches and dried elements in bouquets and arrangements, says Dustin Moorehead of Creating Atmosphere. “Dried flowers have a vintage crazy-wild look that brides are going for nowadays,’’ says Ann Etienne of Voila! Blooms in Dundee. Etienne rarely does a complete dried flower arrangement. Instead, she mixes dried flowers with fresh. Her current favorite: scabiosa pods, which have lots of texture and visual interest. “It looks really pretty,’’ she says. Dried flowers have a huge bonus in that you don’t have to worry about a water source to keep them fresh.You can use them again in a wreath or preserve them under glass. But there are considerations. » FIRST ON THE LIST IS FRAGILITY. Bouquets go through lots of wear and tear between the wedding and the reception.You’ll need to be aware of how and where you're setting your bouquet. No bumping into guests either, or the bouquet may get smashed. It’s not as much of an issue if the dried flowers are adorning your reception tables. » FOR A TRENDY LOOK, OPT FOR HALF AND HALF. Or mix dried and silk blooms with fresh, as Etienne sometimes does. Dried rosebuds can look lovely with fresh peonies, she says. Or try fresh peonies alongside dried baby's breath and carnations. Those dried elements are perfect for toning down a summery color palette for an early fall wedding date.
» CHOOSE HARDY VARIETIES THAT LEND THEMSELVES TO DRIED ARRANGEMENTS. These include hydrangea (light green), salvia, yarrow, rosebuds and coneflower seed heads. If you decide to mix hydrangeas from your own yard with wildflowers, make sure you aren’t allergic to them! » TAKE THE STYLE OF YOUR VENUES INTO CONSIDERATION. Dried flowers under glass are more of a fit for an historic or a vintage setting rather than an industrial-looking venue, says Moorehead. » DRIED FLOWERS. Unless you can pick your own flowers and dry them, dried flowers are not a cheaper option.Your florist would still have to buy the flowers fresh and dry them for the wedding. Sometimes it takes numerous flowers to achieve just the right look. Safari Sunset, which is ready for picking and cutting in the fall, has the look of a dried flower without the added labor, Etienne says. Consider using dried flowers just for boutonnieres. They won’t face as much wear and tear, unless the groom and his buddies are doing lots of hugging. » HAVE YOUR BOUQUET PROFESSIONALLY PRESERVED – WITH AN ADDED TOUCH. That’s the specialty of Memories Bi Design. Owner Diane Bowley says she has preserved several bouquets with sentimental touches such as dried flowers from a loved one’s funeral. “Whatever they have in their bouquet we can certainly do it,’’ Bowley says.
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 73
A DV I C E
getting started 1. Scope out farmers markets and local wholesalers for garden flowers and search roadsides for berry branches, seed pods and other naturals. Survey your yard for hosta leaves, spirea branches, solomon's seal, woodsy branches and ornamental grasses that might look great in your arrangements. Stay away from any plants known to cause allergic reactions.
FLOWER POWER How to arrange your own flowers in a snap
2. Pick a cool work space for building your arrangements. Flowers will wilt in the sun and droop in the heat. Aim for a steady temperature of 70 degrees.
T E X T MARJIE DUCEY P H OTO G R A P H Y HEIDI HOFFMAN
FLOWERS ARE AN IMPORTANT element, but they also can be a couple's biggest wedding expense, next to catering. A recent survey by TheKnot. com found that couples spend an average of $2,141 on personal flowers, centerpieces and other decorations. Based on the average cost of a wedding, that shakes out to 10 percent to 15 percent of your total wedding budget. If you're thinking about doing your own wedding flowers in hopes of saving money, you may be in for a surprise. The task of building bouquets isn't easy in the hectic days leading up to your ceremony and reception. And sometimes the end cost is more than you estimated, especially if you're handling all the details – including transport to your venues. Before you decide, meet with a florist to get a ballpark estimate of the floral elements you envision creating. If it still makes sense to do your own flowers, Sheila Fitzgerald of A New Leaf shares pro tips for arranging long-lasting bouquets and arrangements.
what you need
TIME – You'll need one to two days to buy, prep and arrange your flowers. RESOURCES – Local gardens, area growers and regional wholesalers will be your best sources. TOOLS – 5-gallon buckets; floral snippers; waste bins; vases or vessels for holding your arrangements; floral tape, wire and foam; garden gloves. TALENT – If you’re wondering if you’ve got the necessary skill, all you can do is test it.
3. Two days before your wedding, buy and-or harvest your stems. Fill 5-gallon buckets with about 4 inches of room temperature water for hydrating the stems you collect. Try to use a different bucket for each type of stem. Handle with care; if you break a stem, the water supply to the bloom will be compromised and the stem won’t last long. 4. Begin mixing and matching elements until you find the perfect combinations. The main thing is to enjoy the process. Love is the main ingredient here! 5. Store arrangements in a cool, dry place where they will not be disturbed until it's time to transport them to your ceremony site. creativelive.com
74
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
6450 Pine Street 402.778.6317 ScottCenter.com
Our newly remodeled event space in Aksarben Village
2118872-01
2102297-01
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  75
76
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
REAL WEDDING
emily & salvatore MEGAN CASH PHOTO · JULY 1, 2017 · SHADOW RIDGE COUNTRY CLUB
DAD SAW HER FIRST Emily waited on her future father-inlaw, Niño Greco, at Vincenzo's Ristorante. Six months later the family returned for Sal's birthday and requested her section. Afterward, Niño left Sal's number on the receipt. Thinking it was Sal who left the number, Emily texted him happy birthday. He didn't know anything about his dad's plot, but the two talked a few times, and then Sal asked Emily out to dinner. A few years later, Sal proposed in front of the fountains at Heartland of America Park. "It’s crazy to think that if he hadn’t done all of that we wouldn’t be together,'' Emily says. "Thank goodness he did. We can’t imagine life without one another.'' BLACK AND WHITE That was their color choice for their wedding, which Emily wanted to be simple yet elegant and fun. There was no doubt about the fun part. "Sal walked out after the ceremony with a hoverboard for me." She rode it from the country club parking lot to the clubhouse and straight into the ballroom. FAMILY AFFAIR The wedding was held at a neighbor's home, where Emily had always dreamed of holding the ceremony. The couple had flower grandmas instead of flower girls. Their three dogs were the ring bearers. Emily's dad, Jon Morton, was the officiant. DRINK UP They designed their own labels for the wine they served from Windsor Vineyards in California. Champagne was given out to guests before the ceremony with instructions to “Sip
and Be Seated.” SWEET MOMENTS Sal says Emily was more beautiful than he could ever have imagined. "He was the most handsome nervous wreck I've ever seen.'' After the ceremony, while the two waited for guests to head to the reception, Emily says she needed a breather. Cheez-It crackers and a mini shoulder rub worked wonders. BEST PRESENT EVER Emily's parents' surprised them by paying for the wedding. "It was amazing,'' Emily says of the gift. YOU LIGHT UP MY LIFE They had lights everywhere at Shadow Ridge Country Club and candles in the pool. Food included a build-your-own mac and cheese bar with lobster and all the fixings; an Italian station with homemade sausage, meatballs and sauce; a dessert station; a mini taco bar; a seafood station; and mini hot dogs and hamburgers. Pizza and wings were catered in for a late-night meal. HER ADVICE Emily wishes she would have had more time for photos, including some of just the two of them. Creating Atmosphere did a flawless job organizing the reception, so that was one less worry. But she reminds brides to relax and focus on the moment instead of worrying about what's happening next. NOT JUST YOU ANYMORE Emily admits she's an avid spender, and Sal tries to keep her grounded. "Being married, you have to really understand and consider your spouse,'' Emily says. That includes getting used to Sal being very particular about what he eats.
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 77
78
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  79
80
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  81
SEE SOMETHING YOU LOVE? FIND BONUS PHOTOS FROM THIS REAL WEDDING AT
weddingessentialsmagazine.com
82
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
essential details THE COUPLE EMILY MORTON AND SALVATORE GRECO PHOTOGRAPHER MEGAN CASH PHOTO WEDDING DATE JULY 1, 2017 REHEARSAL BRIDE’S PARENTS' HOME (CATERED BY VINCENZO'S) CEREMONY FAMILY FRIEND'S HOUSE ON THE NINTH FAIRWAY AT SHADOW RIDGE COUNTRY CLUB
We Make Weddings
EASIER
RECEPTION OUTDOOR PAVILION AT SHADOW RIDGE COUNTRY CLUB
BRIDAL GOWN NICOLE MILLER, READY OR KNOT {WEDDING CHIC}
ACCESSORIES ROSE GOLD DIAMOND BELTS AS DRESS STRAPS FROM ETSY; NECKLINE ALTERATION BY LINDA LEE BRIDAL CREATIONS
HAIRSTYLIST SETH GAETA
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA 1905 W Broadway 712-256-5421 LINCOLN, NE 3210 Cornhusker Hwy 402-975-2320
OMAHA, NE 4950 S 108th Street 402-991-4227 346 N Saddle Creek Road 402-933-4311
Go ogW Go GoHogWild.com Wi d co om 2118866-01
MAKEUP ARTIST JASMINE SMIDT BRIDESMAID DRESSES DAVID’S BRIDAL MEN’S ATTIRE JERRY RYAN CLOTHING & SPORTSWEAR RINGS BORSHEIMS FLORIST ALL SEASONS FLORAL & GIFTS CAKE CAKE CREATIONS OMAHA CATERER SHADOW RIDGE COUNTRY CLUB RENTALS UNITED RENT-ALL, CREATING ATMOSPHERE
WEDDING PARTY SPECIAL
$50 DISCOUNT
MUSIC MARK GERMER, CEREMONY; ROUGH CUT, RECEPTION
ON EVERY TUXEDO GROOM’S RENTAL FREE
INVITATIONS/PROGRAMS DESIGNED BY THE COUPLE; ENGRAVING AND PRINTING, TOUREK ENGRAVING CO.
OMAHA’S CHOICE AWARD WINNER and BEST OF OMAHA 7 years in a row.
(with 5 or more paid rentals)
GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS COMFORT INN & SUITES WEDDING COORDINATOR/EVENT PLANNER ELIZABETH MORTON, MOTHER OF THE BRIDE; SAMMI HALBLEIB, SHADOW RIDGE; AND DUSTIN MOOREHEAD, CREATING ATMOSPHERE HONEYMOON KONA, HAWAII
8014 WEST DODGE ROAD | 402-391-3200 | OMAHATUXEDOS.COM
XNSP32499
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 83
HONEYMOON
JAMAICA Dancing in Margaritaville, swimming with dolphins and more in paradise T E X T + P H OTO G R A P H Y MIKE WATKINS
when to go
Anytime is a good time. High tourist season is December through May; we went in March after finding a great all-inclusive deal at Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa. June through November is hurricane season (the biggest threat is in July and August). If you don't mind the risk, you can find some unbelievable discounts on all-inclusive vacation packages.
getting there
There are really only two ways to get to Jamaica – by air and by sea. We flew from Omaha’s Eppley Airfield to Miami, and then hopped a one-hour flight to Montego Bay. After going through customs (passports are necessary), we boarded an air-conditioned Jewels Resorts coach for the hour-plus drive to Ocho Rios. Our bus driver regaled us with stories of the island, which helped make the multi-stop trip enjoyable. If sailing is more your speed, cruise ships arrive and depart daily.
where to eat + drink
Food is available and abundant 24/7 at allinclusive resorts in Jamaica. At Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort, we had our pick of restaurants – Italian, American, Japanese, Chinese, you name it. The outdoor grills served cheeseburgers and other sandwiches all day and night, and the open-oven pizzeria – which had some of the best pizza I’ve ever had – also served 24 hours a day. With swim-up bars at both pools and in all the restaurants, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks are served all day. If you like rum, you’ll love the daiquiris and piña coladas.
84
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
what to pack
THE AUTHOR, MIKE WATKINS
SUNSCREEN No matter how great your tan might be when you arrive, the sun is different in the Caribbean, and you will need protection. Even a minimal sunblock will prevent you from frying and being uncomfortable your entire trip. CASH FOR SOUVENIRS, TIPS, ETC. U.S. dollars are welcome but it's a good idea to have some Jamaican dollars. We tipped our masseurs, bus driver, valet and other people who made our stay enjoyable and easy.You can charge souvenirs to your room if your resort has a convenience store (ours did). Otherwise, have cash handy. SEVERAL BATHING SUITS You can’t have enough of them when you’re on the beach and/or in the water (pool and ocean) every day. ONE DRESSY OUTFIT Most resort restaurants encourage a casual atmosphere and offer outdoor seating, but there was one dressy Japanese restaurant on-site that had an evening chic dress code and required reservations. Tip: Make them days in advance because dining slots fill up quickly.
of note
Weed dealers are everywhere, and they will solicit you. Marijuana is widespread but not fully legal in Jamaica. Whether you actually smoke it, someone nearby most likely will be, so be prepared to smell it. weddingessentialsmagazine.com 85
1,000-meter course through dense rainforest on a high-tech custom-designed sled. Accessible via the Sky Explorer. • Whisk through the rainforest on a catamaran sail and zipline over Dunn's River Falls. • Step aboard the 65-foot-long Chukka Cat and experience the Caribbean. Take a dip in the warm Caribbean waters or snorkel and explore tropical reefs. A stop at the world-famous Dunn's River Falls gives you an opportunity to climb the 600-foot natural cascading waterfall. Then it is time to zipline! Gear up and get a bird’s perspective of the pristine waterfall as you maneuver through the treetops on ziplines and suspended jungle bridges. Then board the catamaran for a Chukka Rum Punch Party and dance to the rhythms of local and popular tunes all the way to Margaritaville (yes, as in the song) for lunch.
what to see + do
Day excursions and adventures can be booked through the concierge at your resort. Make your reservations as soon as you arrive; activities fill quickly. • Take a tropical forest adventure tour to Mystic Mountain overlooking Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. The tour is suitable
86
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
for all ages. Wear light clothes and bring binoculars, sunscreen, camera, sunglasses and comfortable footwear. • Soar 700 feet above the treetops via the Rainforest Sky Explorer chairlift near the Mystic Mountain park entrance. • Test your mettle on Rainforest Bobsled Jamaica, an exhilarating ride along a
• Take the Chukka Caribbean Adventure's Dunn's River Jeep Safari. Experience the real Jamaica in Chukka's Zebra-Striped Safari Jeeps. Enjoy a scenic view of the mountains and valleys and see lush vegetation. Guides take you to the highest viewpoint, Murphy Hill at 2,000 feet above sea level, for a view of Ocho Rios and the Blue Mountains. On a clear day, you can see Cuba. Taste and learn about their fruits and Jamaica’s great history. • Swim with dolphins at Dolphin Cove marine park. Here you also can go glass-bottom kayaking and snorkeling with stingrays and access the beach. Bring towel, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses and cash/credit card.
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 Hilton HHonors membership, earning Points & Miles and redemption of points are subject to HHonors Terms and Conditions. Š2012 Hilton Worldwide.
Photo: Lane Weddings
A sweet start to your happily ever after...
TRENDS
Outdoor, indoor, historic, and inspiring ... these are the spaces where
IS SINGAPORE THE NEXT WEDDING DESTINATION?
your love
shines
.
800-546-5433 | liedlodge.org | Nebraska City
T E X T MARJIE DUCEY
RACHEL CHU travels with longtime boyfriend Nick Young to an
2119302-01
2102157-01
happily ever after starts here
Call or Text 402-881-8727
88
www.theclubatindiancreek.com
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
events@ theclubatindiancreek.com
extravagant wedding in Singapore in the movie "Crazy Rich Asians." The wedding price tag? A whopping $40 million. As spectacular as the movie celebration was, with its greenhouse wedding theme and glittering reception, the country itself was also a star of the show. A week of festivities in Singapore included a private bachelor party at Sentosa Island, a scene at the landmark Marina Bay Sands and the reception at the stunning Supertree Grove in Gardens by the Bay. Another standout: Changi Airport, which locals treat as an entertainment venue. Just what you might be looking for in a destination wedding or honeymoon. "That type of travel has become more popular,'' says Kem Matthews of Enchanted Honeymoons. "Exotic travel in general has become more popular in the past couple of years.'' Longtime staples such as Mexico and the Caribbean will never wane in popularity, especially for destination weddings. People love to get married on an island, Matthews says. "Or in Mexico and invite their closest friends and relatives.’’ But increasingly sophisticated travelers are looking farther afield. It started with Dubai, Matthews says, then expanded into the Maldives, Africa and the South Pacific. Europe is also popular. With that desire for something different comes a bigger price tag. It also means longer travel times and possibly required vaccines. But Matthews says it’s worth it.
“If you are into culture and wanting to learn new things, all of those would be fabulous choices,’’ Matthews says. He hasn’t seen an uptick in travel requests for Singapore yet. It’s too early. But he can always tell if a TV show such as "The Bachelor" or "The Bachelorette" features an exotic − and romantic − location. Maybe one of those islands in the Caribbean. “Everybody is having a good time,’’ he says. “Next thing you know, we are getting calls.’’
STICKER SHOCK Don't believe that $40 million price tag for the "Crazy Rich Asians" wedding? Maureen Lee Lenker at ew.com offers this jaw-dropping breakdown.
2118950-01
:: Two first-class airline tickets to Singapore: $21,000 :: One night at the Sarkies Suite at the Raffles Hotel: $7,500 :: Tyersall Park mansion home: $200 million :: Private helicopters: $36 million :: Getaway on Indonesian island: $3,000 per person :: Burmese pearl drop earrings: $1.2 million :: Michael's watch: $96,900 :: Rachel's Marchesa gown: $1,095 :: Peik Lin's 2018 R8 Audi Spyder: $175,000 :: Rachel's engagement ring: $7,100 :: Eleanor's emerald ring: $45,000 :: One week at the wedding: $277,601,595
1995723-01
HONEYMAN RENT-ALL 11226 Wright Circle • 402.333.2882 honeymanrentall.com weddingessentialsmagazine.com 89
A DV I C E
GIVE BACK TO YOUR PARENTS They've invested a lot in you. T E X T CHRIS CHRISTEN
P H OTO EMILY JESSEN PHOTOGRAPHY
The most important “thank you” attached to your wedding may be to your parents for their love and support, not just through the planning process but all through life. A gift from you to them can be a lovely gesture. Start by thinking about what your parents like to do. Here are six examples that you can easily shape into your own.
GOLF Green fees to a favorite golf course; gift certificate to a favorite pro shop; golf lessons with a noted club pro. TRAVEL Weekend stay at a bed-and-breakfast Mom and Dad keep saying they want to try; tickets to a concert, sporting event or art exhibition they would mutually enjoy; engraved luggage tags and leather passport wallets for traveling in style. FOOD A private fine-dining experience or cooking class with a noted local or regional chef; a bottle of fine red wine, expertly selected, from the year you were born. GARDEN-YARD A tree, planted either in their yard or in their name at a botanical center. A garden bench, bird bath or outdoor sculpture. FAMILY A photo book of favorite family moments from the day you were born to present; his and hers handkerchiefs embroidered with personal messages, given during a quiet moment before the ceremony; for mom, a jewelry piece with your birthstone. For the family who usually has fresh flowers in the house, a crystal vase etched with your wedding date or a short sentiment. Add to that a one-year “subscription” with your favorite florist for a monthly delivery of a fresh hand bouquet. SENTIMENTAL Surprise each set of parents with an invitation to brunch or dinner at a favorite restaurant. Extend the invitations in handwritten thank-you notes that you deliver together on your wedding day. Come to think of it, those embroidered hankies would come in handy just then, too.
90
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
$50 OFF
YOUR FIRST TREATMENT! OFFERING: Injectables, Chemical Treatments,
Lasers, and MORE!
5002 Dodge Street Suite 302, Omaha, NE 68132
XNSP34725
Heather Carson, Owner 402.637.4202 Heather@AreteMedSpa.com AreteMedSpa.com
Something old. Something new. Something bold and something you.
Plan an inspired wedding at the Orpheum Theater or Holland Performing Arts Center. You’ll get an expert team of coordinators who make it all easy, plus a superb menu by food service provider, Guckenheimer, and an impressive locale close to the airport and hotels. Celebrate your day your way, on any budget.
402.345.0202
OmahaPerformingArts.org 2013867-01 201 20 01386786767-01 01
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 91
A DV I C E
CUTTING COSTS How four brides found ways to save T E X T MARJIE DUCEY
CELEBRATING ONE OF THE biggest days of your life isn't cheap. According to The Knot 2017 Real Weddings Study, Nebraska couples spent, on average, $28,151 on their weddings. Nationally, the average was $33,391. (And just in case you're curious, the most expensive place to get married was Manhattan, topping out at $76,944.) Parents usually contribute about 45 percent to the budget and the bride and groom, 41 percent, according to the study. The groom's parents also often make a contribution. Once your budget is decided, it's time to decide how you'll divvy the money.Your guest count and items that are most important to you will have the biggest impact. (Nebraska and Iowa couples, The Knot found, typically have an average of 212 and 206 guests, respectively.) Newlywed Hannah Hyslop Guenther wasn't sure where to start with her reception, so she turned to her photographer, Wyn Wiley, for some insight. "He's been to his fair share of weddings, so I went to him for advice on what to invest in and what to hold back on,'' Hannah said. He named food, DJ and lighting as top
92
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
considerations. So, after spending big on her caterer, Hannah got creative. She had family members make their favorite cookies instead of purchasing a wedding cake. "We had a menu that said who made them, and it (the display) served as our homage to our grandparents as well,'' Hannah said. "My paternal grandma, and my namesake, passed away when I was 13, but I made the cookies she always sent me on my birthday so it felt like she was there.'' To make the reception fun, Hannah borrowed an idea from a wedding she had attended in Dallas. That bride provided fun props for the dance floor. "My husband even brought them home in his suitcase,'' Hannah says. "I spent $200 on light-up flower crowns and it transformed the reception into a dance party. Best money spent!'' Jena Aughe bought quality accessories for her wedding, and then resold them for 50 to 75 percent of the purchase price. She also resold her designer dress. "I'm not the type of bride who needs to keep my wedding dress hanging in my closet,'' she said. Lindsay Arrance's etched beer and wine glasses did double duty. They served as party
favors, which guests then used at the bar, so she didn't have to rent glassware or buy plastic beverage cups. She also didn't have a wedding party. "Most of our close friends were coming from out of town, so we just wanted to make sure they could get there instead of having to spend a bunch of money on attire, etc.'' A store sample wedding dress also helped her budget. So did a Friday night − instead of a Saturday − reception. Taylor Vann trimmed costs by sourcing locally and focusing on family and friend connections. Her father owns a printing business, so he printed her table numbers, place cards, table assignments and other signage. “We ordered and grew certain flowers that we knew we were going to want,’’ she said. “Some of the ingredients used in our dinner were locally sourced − honey, tomatoes, herbs. They weren't necessarily chosen to cut costs, but they made it (menu) a little more special.’’ Tanna Piniarski chose Lauritzen Gardens for her venue because she knew she wouldn't have to do a lot of decorating. She also used succulents instead of floral bouquets at her tables.
HOW TO SAVE, FROM THE PROS Tonya Brown, Cake Creations Omaha: Do your homework before picking your baker. If you have your heart set on red velvet, the cost can vary from bake shop to bake shop. Remember that design impacts costs.You can save by choosing a smaller main cake for photos and serving less-expensive sheet cake or cupcakes to your guests. Spencer Evers, Complete weddings + events: Get package pricing by booking all services under one roof. Having the ceremony and reception in one place also cuts the cost of hiring a DJ to provide music and other equipment at a separate location. Many places offer special rates for non-peak days such as Fridays and Sundays and some offer lower rates on Saturdays from November to March. Ending your reception at 11 p.m. can result in savings with vendors. Blaine Muhle, the Fountains and Memrical: She also recommends picking a date in the off-season. The venues she represents offer discounted rentals from November to April and on all Friday and Sunday dates. “The most important part to the reception is definitely the atmosphere. Pick a space that fits your style, but also doesn't need a lot of ‘extras,’’’ she says. “A venue that has character, but also doesn't need a lot to make it look and feel like a wedding reception will be easier to design and easier on your wallet.’’ A good DJ is important. “Having someone who can run the show and direct people, but also keeps the night flowing and fun, is definitely a plus!’’
7300 Q St Ralston, NE | Arena@ralstonarena.com | 402.934.9966
2120405-01
QUALITY GOODS FOR THE GROOM AND GROOMSMEN
Brenda Tharp, Save the Date Catering: Look into different menu options. Pasta and nacho bars are extremely popular and yummy and more affordable than a traditional two-entree dinner. Manpower is the difference. A buffet for 200 people may require four to five servers, but a sit-down plated dinner involves 18. Brunches also can be less expensive, and Tharp even has a bride who is doing a soup, salad and sandwich reception in January. “They love the idea of homemade soups because it’s freezing outside,’’ she says. "If you’ll have lots of children at your reception, ask about a discounted rate for youngsters.'' Kem Matthews, Enchanted Honeymoons: Other than over the holidays, January, February and March are the most expensive months for destination weddings in Mexico and the Caribbean. The best rates tend to be found from July 1 to Nov. 1. Don’t worry that those dates fall in what is considered hurricane season. “It’s like saying I won’t come to Nebraska during tornado season,’’ he says. “It’s a very hit-and-miss thing.’’ Matthews says there’s also no benefit in waiting to make your travel plans. It actually becomes more expensive the closer to your trip. He recommends booking nine to 11 months out.
8712 PACIFIC ST OMAHA, NE (402) 979-6423 THESIMPLEMANSTORE.COM weddingessentialsmagazine.com 93
S P O N S O R E D F E AT U R E
a space to love
Contact us today to explore the beauty of the Truhlsen Center for your special day. 402-559-5192 UNMC.EDU/EVENTSCENTER
94 
FALL 2018   weddingessentialsmagazine.com
NATASHA BARKER PHOTOGRAPHY
DR. STANLEY M. AND DOROTHY TRUHLSEN CAMPUS EVENTS CENTER AT UNMC Celebrating your marriage in the heart of the city has a magical ring to it.Your premier choice in midtown Omaha is the Dr. Stanley M. and Dorothy Truhlsen Campus Events Center on the University of Nebraska Medical Center campus. Imagine you and your guests (up to 340 for a wedding reception) amid modern architecture in neutral colors, a beautiful atrium with large glass windows and a spacious ballroom with an experienced and attentive staff to assist with nearly every detail. Open catering, flexible set-up schedules and free campus parking (or valet service under special arrangement) are other amenities that make the Truhlsen Center in the Michael F. Sorrell Center for Health Science Education an ideal choice for couples looking for convenience and atmosphere. Just ask newlyweds Amy and Mickey Krupski. They had the party of their lives July 14, 2018.
SOMETHING NEW PRODUCTIONS
NATASHA BARKER PHOTOGRAPHY
NATASHA BARKER PHOTOGRAPHY
CANDACE PETELER
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 95
A DV I C E
IT HAPPENS You can overcome missing doughnuts, laryngitis and a monsoon if you have each other T E X T MARJIE DUCEY P H OTO G R A P H Y GLEASON PHOTOGRAPHY
96
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
JENA AUGHE SAYS she could write a novel about the crazy things that tripped up her wedding. It’s easy to laugh now, months after her big day. Other brides can say the same, despite a monsoon (The couple danced in the rain!), laryngitis and missing vendors. One bride narrowly escaped a hefty fine after a Colorado park ranger saw her wedding photos online and contacted her about not having the proper permits. Apparently, the drone they used was illegal, too. But Jena’s experiences take the cake. First, she had to change the date of her wedding due to a conflict with her photographer. That led to a mix-up with the caterer, so she didn't get her plated dinner. And then there were issues with her dress. “I settled for the dinner buffet-style, but honestly, I don't think my guests minded too much,’’ she said. “Also, they told me it was the best wedding food they had ever had. So in the end it all worked out.’’ And that’s the message that Jena and husband Clayton have for couples who face challenges along the way to getting married. It’s all going to be OK. “Take it one day at a time. Breathe when things get stressful,’’ she says. “Just try to see the end goal of marrying your best friend.’’ But Jena admits that wisdom didn’t come until after the wedding. Because there were issues leading up to their wedding day. She decided on a two-pack of Krispy Kreme doughnuts as a wedding favor for her guests. The store had asked for pay-
ment two weeks in advance. But when Jena dropped by the store to pay, it was temporarily closed. The doors were still locked a week later. In a panic, she stopped at another Krispy Kreme location to explain her predicament. They were able to contact the original store. “The owner apologized (and noted that I was probably freaked out by this), but said that even if they had to drive the doughnuts from their Lincoln location, they would get the doughnuts to the zoo (where the reception was being held),’’ Jena recalls. Jena works at the Linden Market Hy-Vee at 132nd Street and West Dodge Road, so naturally that’s where she got her flowers. Two weeks before the wedding, the floral manager announced she was transferring to another location. “I immediately started to panic, because I spent most of my time and budget on the floral designs. But my designer, Cindy Fitzgerald, was awesome, and agreed to design and set up the flowers for my wedding, even though she wasn't on our payroll anymore.’’ “She even stayed until the end of the evening to help clean up the floral arrangements and safely transport all of the items I was wanting to resell.’’ When things got crazy before the wedding, Clayton decided to help with the laundry. Although Jena had warned him that she was allergic to a certain detergent, he inadvertently used it to wash some pillowcases. “So right before the wedding, I had a rash that spanned my entire face and chest.’’ Even though she’s a pharmacist, it took
Omaha’s Premier Source for Party & Event Rentals her several days to pinpoint the culprit. “Tons of Benadryl and hydrocortisone and the rash disappeared just a few days before the wedding.’’ On her wedding day, things went off without a hitch. That is, until 9 p.m. “It was the wedding of my dreams,’’ Jena says. Then things started to heat up at the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium on an unusually warm 92-degree evening. “We were the first evening event held in the new African Lodge at the zoo, and nobody knew that there were timers that shut off the air conditioning at 9 p.m. Unfortunately, the staff working at the zoo had no idea how to fix this,’’ Jena says. “My mom was upset because everyone was leaving, and it was only 10 p.m. She thought I would be upset, but honestly, I was exhausted. Everything had been perfect until that point, and my guests still enjoyed the evening. We were able to have our last dance alone, with just the DJ and our floral designer cleaning up in the background. It was such a romantic moment, and actually was the perfect end to our wedding.’’ But the day wasn't over. When they arrived at their hotel at 10:30 p.m., their room wasn't ready. They waited more than 90 minutes for the key. “At midnight I was beyond upset. It's my wedding night, and I'm wearing an unbelievably heavy ballgown in a hotel lobby. All I wanted to do was get some rest (in air conditioning!),’’ Jena says. When they got to the room, the housekeeper had managed only to change the sheets. “We just sat there on the bed and laughed. What a crazy ending to this wedding journey,’’ she says. “But in the end we didn't care. We were married, we had each other, and we had leftover Krispy Kremes. Life was good!’’ It still is, Jena says. But as the challenges began piling up during those last weeks before the wedding, she wondered whether the universe was trying to tell her something. That's when Clayton stepped in and made up for his laundry snafu. “He was able to wipe my tears and calm me down. He said, 'Things happen along the way, but as long as we have each other, nothing else matters.' “And that’s how you live happily ever after — after the wedding.”
Friendly Service Backed by a Large & Varied Inventory! CHAIRS
|
TABLES
|
LINENS
|
CHINA
|
TENTS
|
& SO MUCH MORE!
Visit Our Showroom!
Monday – Saturday 7:30am to 6PM 811 South 48th Street, Omaha, NE 402-556-1600 | unitedrent-all-omaha.com
2102074-01
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 97
A DV I C E
BRING YOUR OWN SUNSHINE T E X T CHRIS CHRISTEN P H OTO G R A P H Y KIM DYER PHOTOGRAPHY
MALLORY HENNINGER AND DANEIS BARBER had their June 24 timeline down to the minute for their outdoor wedding at Harvest Moon Farm in Oakland, Nebraska. Things got off to a sweltering start with a 5 o’clock ceremony. "I was practically melting in my dress," the bride says. Then the thunder clouds started rolling in. "I had that initial moment of panic when it started to get cloudy during the ceremony, but my coordinator kept everything moving so we didn't get rained on." The downpour came just after their guests had made their way to the barn for the reception an hour later. “It was terrible. It was like the skies opened up and dumped a monsoon,” says Terry Wallerstedt, owner of the outdoor venue. “Talk about stress.” Welcome to Nebraska and the risk of marrying outdoors. And the ability to bring your own sunshine to the party. "I'm a go-with-the-flow kind of person, so once it started raining, we just made the best of it," Mallory says. Wallerstedt, who has been in the wedding business for a decade now, offers five tips to make it through the day.
98
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
1.Think of your guests. If it’s the middle of summer, don’t have the ceremony at 3 or 4 o’clock in the afternoon. Wait until 5 p.m. when sun is lower in the sky and the heat is less intense.
after that you’re dealing with the law of diminishing returns.” Let the landscape be your decor. “Couples who make it look pretty but don't go hog wild seem happier and calmer. And I think that’s ideal.”
2. Keep your guests hydrated. "Set up a water station or serve bottled water from a decorated wagon."
4. Manage the kitchen. Think twice about asking your family to make the meal or serve desserts. “I know it’s a cost-saver, but don’t keep your family stuck in the kitchen,” Wallerstedt says. "They need to be part of the party."
3. Don’t go Pinterest crazy. “Pinterest is amazing and horrible at the same time,” Wallerstedt says. “Brides sometimes make themselves crazy trying to do these really cute things. A few details outdoors will be noticed;
5. Less is more when it comes to alcohol. “It’s just one of those things; if you can keep it classy, it’s so much better.”
deciding the date
• Take the relative popularity of the month into consideration. Getting married in a slower month can increase your chances of landing your first-choice venue(s) and vendors and can help you save money on rentals.
Omaha
5620 S. 72nd Street 402.339.3707
• If you’re going for a Saturday wedding during a popular month, you’ll be competing to get the location and vendors you want. Planning a year in advance will be in your favor.
Lincoln
2700 N. 27th Street 402.467.4151
Kearney
• If you’re considering a destination wedding outside the U.S. (including the Caribbean islands), research your date to be sure your wedding doesn’t fall on or near a national holiday. Closings can interfere with travel, services and sightseeing. • Take religious holidays into consideration, especially those involving your closest friends and family members. Holy Week and Passover, for example, are not good choices. (Some churches don’t allow weddings during Lent or in late December.) For Jewish guests, any weekend that overlaps Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur would be out of the question. • Review what happened on “this date in history,” good or bad, before deciding. All dates are connected to something.
112 E. 6th Street 308.234.1015
www.aaarentsevents.com
• Reserve hotel accommodations for you and your out-of-town guests • FREE shuttle to your wedding venue (within 3-mile radius) • FREE full American breakfast every day • Located in the heart of Downtown Omaha
• Do an online check for major local events, concerts, touring productions and conventions on your proposed date to make sure hotel rooms aren’t scarce if you’ll have a lot of out-of-town guests. A wedding during a Daylight Savings Time change will require reminders to take the hour's difference into consideration when traveling and to set clocks accordingly the night before. • If you decide to marry on a holiday or a holiday weekend (Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve, etc.), send save-the-date cards or otherwise get the word out as early as possible. Source: “The Wedding Book,” Mindy Weiss with Lisbeth Levine, Workman, $29.95
Extra incentives available for our valued Marriott Rewards Members. 106 SOUTH 15TH ST OMAHA, NE • 402-342-4770 MARRIOTT.COM/OMART
2118868-01
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 99
A DV I C E
WEATHER WATCH
RAIN ON YOUR wedding day is considered good luck. Sweltering heat is not. We gathered average Omaha weather information to help you pick the perfect season for your special day. And don't forget to note the golden hour on your day-of timeline for a dreamy sunset photo opp.
MOST POPULAR MONTHS (Often the best weather period in Nebraska) • June • August • September • October SLOWER MONTHS (Often the most unpredictable weather period in Nebraska) • January • February • March • November • December Photo: Lane Weddings Source: weather.com
100
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
january
1st
15th
march
1st
15th
Average High
33
36
Average High
42
49
13
Average Low
13
16
Average Low
22
26
7:50 a.m.
7:48 a.m.
Sunrise Time
7:36 a.m.
7:20 a.m.
Sunrise Time
6:59 a.m.
7:37 a.m.
5:05 p.m.
5:20 p.m.
Sunset Time
5:40 p.m.
5:58 p.m.
Sunset Time
6:14 p.m.
7:31 p.m.
1st
15th
Average High
32
32
Average Low
13
Sunrise Time Sunset Time
Average Monthly Precipitation: .7 inches
april
1st
15th
Average High
57
62
Average Low
32
Sunrise Time Sunset Time
Average Monthly Precipitation: .9 inches
may
1st
15th
Average High
68
72
37
Average Low
44
7:08 a.m.
6:45 a.m.
Sunrise Time
7:49 p.m.
8:04 p.m.
Sunset Time
Average Monthly Precipitation: 3.4 inches
july
february
15th
Average High
76
81
50
Average Low
44
60
6:21 a.m.
6:05 a.m.
Sunrise Time
6:21 a.m.
5:50 a.m.
8:21 p.m.
8:04 p.m.
Sunset Time
8:51 p.m.
8:59 p.m.
Average Monthly Precipitation: 4.7 inches
15th
august
1st
15th
Average High
86
85
Average High
85
83
Average Low
64
65
Average Low
65
Sunrise Time
5:54 a.m.
6:04 a.m.
Sunrise Time
Sunset Time
9:01 p.m.
8:56 p.m.
Sunset Time
october
1st
15th
Average High
69
64
Average Low
46
Sunrise Time Sunset Time
september
15th
Average High
81
76
63
Average Low
59
53
6:19 a.m.
6:33 a.m.
Sunrise Time
6:50 a.m.
7:04 a.m.
8:41 p.m.
8:23 p.m.
Sunset Time
7:57 p.m.
7:34 p.m.
1st
15th
Average High
57
48
41
Average Low
35
7:21 a.m.
7:36 a.m.
Sunrise Time
7:06 p.m.
6:43 p.m.
Sunset Time
Average Monthly Precipitation: 2.4 inches
Average Monthly Precipitation: 4.1 inches
1st
Average Monthly Precipitation: 3.5 inches
november
june
1st
1st
Average Monthly Precipitation: 4 inches
Average Monthly Precipitation: 2.1 inches
Average Monthly Precipitation: 2.9 inches
december
1st
15th
Average High
38
33
28
Average Low
20
15
7:55 a.m.
7:12 a.m.
Sunrise Time
7:31 a.m.
7:43 a.m.
6:19 p.m.
5:05 p.m.
Sunset Time
4:55 p.m.
4:55 p.m.
Average Monthly Precipitation: 1.5 inches
Average Monthly Precipitation: 1 inch
 weddingessentialsmagazine.com  101
AUTHENTIC ATMOSPHERE. EDISON LIGHTS. SPECTACULAR CITY VIEWS.
Welcome to The Old Mattress Factory, your ideal wedding weekend destination.
102
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
Located in Omaha’s North Downtown, we’re just steps away from everything you and your guests need to celebrate your special day. Use our party room for your rehearsal dinner, our patio for your wedding ceremony and our spacious banquet room for your reception. Savor fabulous food. Sip a favorite cocktail. And let our attentive staff treat you like family.
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 103
From a 2018 bride ... "The venue is such a beautiful space and I couldn't have asked for a better location, excellent drink options, great food and an amazing time. I cannot say enough great things about Cyndi and the staff at The Old Matt. My dad is a very particular person and he was gushing over the staff – so you know they're awesome!"
104
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
Fuss-free. Stress-free. Contact us to envision your forever date at The Matt. CYNDI MURPHY · 402.932.0721 · INFO@THEMATTOMAHA.COM · 501 N. 13TH STREET, OMAHA, NE
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 105
S M A L L B U S I N E S S D I R E C TO RY
THE CAKE RENDEZVOUS
CATERING CREATIONS
BELLA TERRE
Don’t just get a cake. Get a cake experience.
A full-ser vice catering company. We bring you an amazing culinar y experience so you can be a guest at your own event.
Bella Terre was designed to create an unforgettable memor y for you and your guests in an extraordinar y and unique facility.
1915 JACKSON ST., OMAHA 402-558-3202 CATERINGCREATIONS.COM
23375 BARRUS ROAD, GLENWOOD 402-740-4176 BELLATERRE.COM
BRITTANY GUBBELS – CAKE DESIGNER 402-679-0119 FACEBOOK.COM/CAKERENDEZVOUS
RSVP
HY-VEE
Wedding & shower invitations, personalized stationer y, programs, planners and unique gifts.
Our award-winning floral team is ready to make all arrangements for your special day.
8720 COUNTRYSIDE PLAZA, OMAHA 402-991-1881 RSVPNOTES.COM
THIRTEEN METRO LOCATIONS HY-VEE.COM
The perfect soundtrack to the best day of your life . Our DJs will keep you and your guests dancing till the reception ends. 110 N. 9TH ST., OMAHA 405-339-3535 COMPLETEWEDDINGOMAHA.COM
COTTONWOOD PAVILION
BORSHEIMS
TIP TOP TUX
A small town venue that is big on histor y and charm. Only one wedding booked per weekend. Quick jaunt from the Omaha metro area.
The engagement destination for over 100 years.
Unsurpassed ser vice and quality.
120 REGENCY PARKWAY, OMAHA 1-800-642-4438 BORSHEIMS.COM
3 OMAHA LOCATIONS SHADOW LAKE – 402-289-3601 VILLAGE POINTE – 402-529-2099 615 N. 98TH ST. – 402-390-5003 TTTUX.COM
1309 WEST FERGUSON ROAD, SHENANDOAH 712.370.1581 COTTONWOODPAVILION.COM
106
COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
Many New Homes
READY NOW!
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 107
local vendors & venues A C C O M M O DAT I O N S
AT T I R E + P R E S E RVAT I O N
COURTYARD MARRIOTT
DILLARD'S
MARY KAY
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON DOWNTOWN
DREAM DRESS EXPRESS
ATTITUDE ON FOOD
EMBASSY SUITES LA VISTA
ELLYNNE BRIDAL
CAKE CREATIONS OMAHA
HAMPTON INN, COUNCIL BLUFFS
GENTLEMAN'S CHOICE
CATERING CREATIONS
HILTON GARDEN INN
JOS. A BANK
CORNHUSKER BEVERAGE & BRIDAL
HILTON OMAHA
MEN'S WEARHOUSE
HOG WILD PIT BAR-B-Q
HOLIDAY INN & SUITES/AMERISTAR
OMAHA LACE CLEANERS
HY-VEE
HOTEL DECO XV
SAMPLE & SOIREE BY RHYLAN LANG
MAIN EVENT CATERING
marriott.com
doubletreeomahadowntown.com embassysuitesomahalavista.com hamptoninn3.hilton.com
hiltongardeninn.hilton.com omaha.hilton.com holidayinn.com
hoteldecoomaha.com LIED LODGE
liedlodge.org
MAGNOLIA HOTEL OMAHA
magnoliahotels.com
OMAHA MARRIOTT, CAPITOL DISTRICT
downtownomahamarriott.com
RESIDENCE INN DOWNTOWN
dillards.com dreamdressexpress.com ellynnebridal.com
omahatuxedos.com josbank.com
menswearhouse.com
omahalacecleaners.com
sampleandsoiree.com SPOTLIGHT FORMAL WEAR
spotlightformalwear.com THE SIMPLE MAN
thesimplemanstore.com TIP TOP TUX
tttux.com
marriott.com/omart
BLUSH BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
blushbridalne.com DAVID'S BRIDAL
davidsbridal.com
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
marykay.com/skliewer attitudeonfood.com
cakecreationsomaha.com cateringcreations.com
cornhuskerbeverage.com gohogwild.com hy-vee.com
cateringbymainevent.com
NOTHING BUNDT CAKES
nothingbundtcakes.com
OLD MATTRESS FACTORY
themattomaha.com
SAVE THE DATE CATERING
savethedatecateringandevents.com SIMPLY ELEGANT CAKES
simply-elegant-cakes.com H E A LT H + B E A U T Y ARBONNE INTERNATIONAL
amylsmith.myarbonne.com BEAUTY BRANDS
beautybrands.com
108
C A K E S + C AT E R I N G
THE CAKE RENDEZVOUS
facebook.com/cakerendezvous VILLAMONTE'S CUISINE
omahapressclub.com
FLORAL + EVENT DECOR 402 EVENT SERVICES
402eventservices.com
EVENT PLANNING WOWFACTORE
wowfactore.com
AAA RENTS & EVENT SERVICES
aaarentsevents.com
ALL SEASONS FLORAL
allseasonsfloralomaha.com CHAIR COVER ELEGANCE
chaircoverelegance.net
I N V I TAT I O N S + S I G N A G E
DREAM BIG EVENTS
dreambigevents.net
HEROES EVENT LIGHTING
honeymanrentall.com
MULTI-IMAGES PHOTOGRAPHY
multi-images.com
SNAP OMAHA PHOTOBOOTH
snapomaha.com
cornhuskerbeverage.com MANGELSEN'S
mangelsens.com
R E G I S T RY + H O M E S BORSHEIMS
borsheims.com J E W E L RY BORSHEIMS
borsheims.com
heroeslawnandlandscape.com HONEYMAN RENT-ALL
makimages.com
CORNHUSKER BEVERAGE & BRIDAL
EVENTS ETCETERA
eventsetcomaha.net
MAK IMAGES
CELEBRITY HOMES
celebrityhomesomaha.com CELEBRITY CHINA & COOKWARE
celebritychina.com DILLARD'S
M U S I C + E N T E RTA I N M E N T
dillards.com
HY-VEE
402 EVENT SERVICES
hy-vee.com
402eventservices.com
MANGELSEN'S
A SPECIAL EVENT – NEBRASKA
CUSTOM CRUISES & TRAVEL
mangelsens.com
asenebraska.com
ccruises.com
MEMRICAL
COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS
ENCHANTED HONEYMOONS
memrical.com
completeweddingomaha.com
TMS LIGHTING
tmslighting.com
UNITED RENT-ALL
unitedrent-all-omaha.com
enchantedhoneymoons.com
TRAVEL DESIGN LOUNGE
NOBBIES
nobbiesparties.com
T R AV E L
traveldesignlounge.com P H OTO + V I D E O COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS
completeweddingomaha.com
LEAH MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY
leahmarie-photography.com
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 109
MAX INSIDE
MAX OUTSIDE
402-408-5300 bellevueeventcenter.com
650
300
BELLA TERRE 23375 Barrus Road, Glenwood
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
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 doubletreeomahadowntown.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
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 & VINEYARD 51496 230th St., Glenwood
402-884-1177 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.
402-998-4215 omaha.hilton.com
800
N/A
HOLLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 1200 Douglas St.
402-345-0202 omahaperformingarts.org
330
N/A
HOTEL DECO XV 1504 Harney St.
402-991-0493, ext. 252 hoteldecoomaha.com
130
N/A
LOCATION
CONTACT
BEARDMORE EVENT CENTER 3730 Raynor Parkway, Bellevue
110
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
RENTALS
CEREMONY SITE
OUTSIDE CATERER
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 HOTEL OMAHA 1615 Howard St.
402-231-6062 magnoliahotels.com
250
250
OAK HILLS COUNTRY CLUB 12325 Golfing Green Drive
402-895-3636 oakhillscountryclub.org
245
N/A
THE MATT 501 N. 13th St.
402-932-0721 themattomaha.com
300
N/A
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
OMAHA MARRIOTT, CAPITOL DISTRICT 222 N. 10th St.
402-807-8000 downtownomahamarriott.com
850
2,000
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
RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT 106 S. 15th St.
402-342-4770 marriott.com/omart
50
75
SCOTT CONFERENCE CENTER 6450 Pine St.
402-778-6317 scottcenter.com
500
N/A
THE VENUE AT HIGHLANDER 2120 N. 30th St.
402-502-2770 seventyfivenorth.org
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 uno.com
325
N/A
UNO THOMPSON ALUMNI CENTER 67th & Dodge St.
402-554-3368 unmc.edu/eventscenter
220
500
LOCATION
CONTACT
IL PALAZZO 5110 N. 132nd St.
RENTALS
CEREMONY SITE
OUTSIDE CATERER
weddingessentialsmagazine.com 111
112
FALL 2018 weddingessentialsmagazine.com
MARRIOTT OMAHA DOWNTOWN CAPITOL DISTRICT
CONSIDER US YOUR SOMETHING NEW
photos by Trin Jensen Photography