Pretty Pear Bride Magazine Fall Issue 2015 {V15}

Fall 2015 Volume 15

Sydney’s Closet 2016 Collection

Real Wedding Inspirations

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CONTENTS 10

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38 I’m not pretty for a big girl....I’m pretty period!

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It’s not about what size you wear, it’s about how you wear your size.

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Real Wedding Features: Editorial Submissions:

Advertising:

Couples/Photographers interested in submitting their real weddings should submit their information on our website. Regretfully due to the volume of submissions, we are unable to respond to all requests.

To advertise in Pretty Pear Bride Magazine please contact advertising@prettypearbride.com.

Advertising requests for prettypearbride.com should also contact advertising@prettypearbride.com.

A media kit will be made available upon receipt of a request.

Please do not send original material to Pretty Pear Bride Magazine. We are not responsible for damage or loss to unsolicited material.

Editorial material can be sent to submissions@prettypearbride.com

Stay connected with us. @prettypearbride www.prettypearbride.com Email hello@prettypearbride.com Phone 317-426-9412

Copyright Pretty Pear Bride速 Magazine 2015 Pretty Pear Bride速 Magazine is a registered trademark and may not be imitated or reproduced. All content are the property of Pretty Pear Bride Magazine, do not imiate or duplicate. All photos are the propety of credited photographer. If you wish to request the use of and/or publish any portion of Pretty Pear Bride Magazine please email our Editor at: smyers@prettypearbride.com 6 Pretty Pear Bride Magazine

Editorial

Editor In Chief: Shafonne Myers

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR This issue is always one of my favorite because I love this time of year. For some reason, the fall has always been close to my heart. I love the brisk air, football season and cuddling up with my family. I made sure to include in this issue some of my favorite things for this season as well as, including my fave rain boots that actually fit my wide calves and a cardigan. I absolutely love cardigans, it’s definitely a staple for me during this time of year. I’ve also included some of the most gorgeous real

weddings and engagements that have been included to date. It’s so amazing that each issue seems to get better and better. But we couldn’t do it with you all, our readers, y’all keep me pushing on even when I doubt myself. I also have to always give thanks to my family too. It’s the time of year that each and every one of us have to give thanks to the ones that let us do what we do.

Thanks and Happy Holidays!

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EDITOR’S PICKS C

an you believe it, it’s finally Fall. The time where you can put on those super cute jackets and cardigans on. because it’s just the right amount of chill in the air. This is by far my favorite time of year. Here are a few of my favorite things that I love during this time of year.

LOOK HOT AND SHOW IT OFF The Modern Boudoir Collection, which is available now on AdditionElle.com and at Nordstrom stores and online; is said to be both sexy and comfortable.

The collection will cater to sizes 12 and up.

STAY COMFY AND DRY! Stay dry and comfy this fall and winter with these amazing rain boots that wait for it...are for wide calfs. Love them!

PLUM PRETTY SUGAR Petal hues abound atop this perfectly pretty kimono sleeve style crossover robe with self tie sash and inner tie. [Sizes up to XXL]

MINTED INVITATIONS Is the marketplace for independent artists.

Artist create wedding invitations, websites and stationery that is then sold to wedding consumers on their website.

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“

Happy girls are the prettiest.

- AUDREY HEPBURN

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Health and Beauty

What A Bride Wants: Relaxation and sophistication favored choices for bachelorette parties

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s a rite of passage, the bachelorette party has long gotten a bum rap. Stereotypes persist of the bride’s night-before-the-wedding gathering as a ladies-only version of the raucous bachelor party.

Yet the truth is, a growing number of brides crave a tasteful, relaxing and deeply personal send-off for their single days.

In fact, a relaxing getaway ranked high as an ideal bachelorette party for 59 percent of brides-to-be in the Ultimate Bridesmaids Census. Sixty-seven percent wanted dinner, dancing and time spent with their closest friends, and 23 percent wanted something nontraditional that really reflected their personal interests.

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Bachelorette parties are as unique as the women they celebrate,” says Michael Belot, general manager of Destination Kohler - home to AAA five-diamond and Forbes five-star hotel that hosts scores of brides, bridesmaids and weddings each year. “We’re seeing an emphasis on relaxation for the bride and companionship with her friends in today’s bachelorette parties. Brides want to spend their special night - and often an entire weekend - in a soothing, stress-free atmosphere before the hectic pace of their wedding day.”

So what are the things that brides and bridesmaids tell the Destination Kohler team they must have for their bachelorette soirees? Belot points to five in-demand elements:

1. Spa time Whether it’s a group mani-pedi, a yoga class or a lunch of delicious, healthful spa cuisine, bachelorette groups crave spa time. Parties are looking for spas that offer a comprehensive list of salon services, familiar and new massages and body treatments, and easy access to luxury accommodations. For example, at Destination Kohler, bachelorette groups often book rooms in the Carriage House, which is located above the Forbes fivestar Kohler Waters Spa. Participants can spend the day in their spa robes if they choose. “Kohler Waters Spa is by far the most popular request and activity among bachelorette parties, and is often the center of the trip,” says Garrett Mersberger, manager of Kohler Waters Spas. Playing to this trend, many resorts have created female-centric spa packages like the Girls Getaway.

2. Great food Forget the pigs in a blanket, deviled eggs and other de rigeur finger foods long associated with bridal

showers. Modern bachelorette groups are looking for dining options that are luxurious and delicious, or that accommodate lifestyle needs such as gluten-free or lowcalorie diets. Spa fare often fits well with this preference.

Resorts with multiple dining options afford bachelorette guests the opportunity to dine lightly for lunch and then enjoy a more indulgent dinner.

3. Bonding activities Hitting the bar and dancing the night away are no longer the only bonding activities for bachelorette groups. From yoga classes and golf outings to wine and chocolate pairings, brides-to-be are looking for more diverse, sophisticated activities they can do with their girlfriends.

4. A location “away from it all” Nearly a third of respondents in the Bridesmaid Census said they didn’t want to go crazy for a bachelorette party, they just wanted to enjoy time with their friends.

Perhaps it’s because their lives are about to change dramatically. Maybe it’s a need to reaffirm the girlfriend bond that has seen them through life’s ups and downs to reach this happy point in their lives. Whatever their reasons, a growing number of brides are looking for a bachelorette experience that transports them and their closest friends far away from their daily routines.

Some fulfill this wish by choosing a resort location far from home. Others may choose accommodations that are more intimate. At Destination Kohler, bachelorette parties can also opt to stay at Sandhill, the resort’s luxury private cabin that sits on 350 natural acres just a 10-minute drive from the resort.

5. Personalization Twenty-three percent of surveyed brides said they wanted a bachelorette party that was deeply personal and tailored to their individual tastes and interests. For some, that’s a spa experience. For others, a golf getaway. Even when they’ve booked a bachelorette package, brides and their bridesmaids are looking for ways the resort can customize their experience. Add-ons are popular, from spa treatments to wine tastings.

Bachelorette party experiences are becoming as individual as the brides they celebrate, Belot notes.

“Brides are not cookie cutter, so their bachelorette parties shouldn’t be either.” [Image by Inspiration and Design Photography] Pretty Pear Bride Magazine 11

Five Ways to Boost Your Health in 5 minutes or less Tips to getting healthy even with little time.

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You know those days when your normal schedule gets thrown completely out the window? You’re tired, overrun and can barely think about the next thing on your to-do list, let alone work on your larger goals or concentrate on your health.

“Luckily, major results can stem from small steps, even if they seem inconsequential. These tiny decisions throughout your day add up to create a gradual shift towards change and transformation when it comes to your health,” says Paul Kriegler, registered dietitian with Life Time - The Healthy Way of Life Company.

When you’re flying at rapid speed throughout your day and could use a small win, Kriegler suggests trying a few of these five-minute health commitments: Whip up a sustainable energy boost. Think of food as fuel for your body. When you’re busy and on the run, don’t forget to pack healthy lunches and snacks to keep you nourished throughout the day. * A protein and powdered greens shake is the perfect quick snack or lunch. * Cut up veggies at the beginning of the week to pack for lunch.

r office * Fit in two sprints up and down your street before dinner. * Do three to six yoga poses to target a particular body part or objective. Find a yoga video that focuses on relaxation or strength. *Head out to your backyard for five minutes of jumping rope, playing tag with the kids or trying a YouTube exercise video that looks interesting.

Plan for the days and weeks ahead. Achieving a goal always involves planning. Find five minutes in your day to make sure you have a healthy plan in place. * Plan a healthy menu for dinner tonight or start your healthy shopping list for the week. * Pack your gym bag for tomorrow’s workout.

Take time for yourself. “When you’re constantly on the go, remembering to take time for yourself can be a challenge,” says Kriegler. “Whether you have to get up five minutes early or stay up five minutes late, fit in some time to connect with yourself.” * Try a five minute meditation to relax your body.

* Make a 3-ingredient salad. All you need is lettuce, a protein, and another veggie. * Throw together stew or chili ingredients for a week of healthy dinners and lunches.

Do you have five minutes? Fit in a workout. Kriegler says a workout doesn’t have to (and shouldn’t!) disrupt your entire day. If you find yourself with five minutes to spare, get up and move. * Work out your kinks with five minutes of stretching or foam rolling. * See how many pushups you can do in five minutes. * When you’re at work, run up and down the side stairs of

* Walk outside for a few minutes of sun and fresh air. * Pour yourself a big glass of water to take your supplements with in the morning. *Call someone in your support network for encouragement. This could be a weight loss coach, running or workout buddy, friend or spouse.

Although these may seem like minor tips, these small wins can help you on your journey toward a healthier way of life. {Image from Tiina Veer, BA RMT RYT, Canadianbased founder of Yoga for Round Bodies. Follow Tiina on Twitter @tiinaveer.

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Suffering from fall allergies?

What you can do to find relief 14 Fall Issue 2015 PPB Magazine

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“Although spring, summer and fall have different sets of allergens to trip up allergy and asthma sufferers, they can cause the same symptoms,” says allergist Janna Tuck, M.D., Fellow of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “Those who have multiple triggers, may not be able to distinguish between what’s causing their symptoms. They just know they’re congested, with red eyes and an itchy nose.”

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ou heard all about the worst allergy season ever. You know the pollen tsunami swept through and left everyone sneezing and wheezing in its wake. But you want to know why the end of summer is almost here and you’re still miserable.

“Although spring, summer and fall have different sets of allergens to trip up allergy and asthma sufferers, they can cause the same symptoms,” says allergist Janna Tuck, M.D., Fellow of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “Those who have multiple triggers, may not be able to distinguish between what’s causing their symptoms. They just know they’re congested, with red eyes and an itchy nose.”

Ragweed is the biggest allergy trigger in the fall. It usually starts releasing pollen with cool nights and warm days in August, and can last into September and October. And the majority of people who are allergic to spring plants are also allergic to ragweed.

So what can you do to manage allergy and asthma symptoms in the fall? Many of the same things you do in spring, according to ACAAI. “The most important reminder is to start taking fall allergy medication two weeks or so before symptoms usually begin,” says Dr. Tuck. “You should also continue your medication for two weeks after the first frost. Both nasal and eye symptoms associated with ragweed allergies can linger after pollen is no longer in the air.”

Another treatment option is allergy tablets, available for grass and ragweed pollens. The

tablets need to be started at least three months before allergy season begins. While only two allergens can be treated with this method, it may be a good option for grass and ragweed allergies not controlled with other medications. Talk with your allergist to see if this option is right for you.

If not, allergy shots are a tried and true method of relief.

What else can you do about fall allergy symptoms?

The first line of defense is to avoid triggers.

After spending time outdoors, shower, change and wash your clothes. While working outdoors, wear a NIOSH N95-rated filter mask. Only N95 masks filter out pollen due to its micro size. Be sure to also keep your car and home windows closed. If you do go outside, wear a hat and sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes.

If you suffer from any seasonal allergies, see a board-certified allergist. Allergists are trained to diagnose and treat your symptoms, and to work with you to create an individual action plan.

If you think you might be one of the more than 50 million Americans that suffer from allergy and asthma, you can find an allergist in your area with the allergist locator tool.

For more information and to find relief, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. Join us on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter. [Image by Alexis June Weddings]

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Countdown to Your Wedding 12 Months Before

8 Months Before

4 Months Before

Tackle the Guest List

Book the caterer, band/DJ, florist, photographer and any rentals

Select Groom and Groomsmen attire

Finalize and order your dress

Plan Rehearsal Dinner

Set-up room blocks for out of town guests

Confirm Vendors

Dream about your Wedding Talk Money Figure out who’s paying for what

Decide on Hair and Makeup Book a venue for ceremony and reception and settle on a date

Have fun and Register Begin Hair and Makeup Trials

Hire a wedding planner, if you are using one

Cake Tastings and Order Cake

2 Months Before Mail Invitations

10 Months Before

6 Months Before

Buy gifts for bridal party, parents, and your fiancĂŠ

Book an officiate

Send Save the Dates

Purchase Day of Accessories

Look for the perfect dress

Book Honeymoon

Confirm Day of Transporation

Pick your bridal party

Book the getaway car {if needed}

Shop for Vendors

Book transportation for guests {if needed}

Take Engagement Photos Order Bridesmaid Dresses Purchase wedding bands

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6 Weeks Before

48 Hours Before

Day of

Apply for Marriage License

Pick up your dress

Exchange presents with your groom

Get Everything Printed; programs, menus, other weddingreception stationery

Put all vendor tips in envelopes.

Delegate to Maid of Honor or Best Man

Confirm Arrival of Bridesmaid Dresses

Write day of balance checks that are due

Give the rings to the best man and maid of honor Eat small, light meals Get Gorgeous

Plan welcome baskets for out of town guests

Drop off welcome baskets for out of town guests to hotel

It’s Bachelorette Party Time

Wrap bridesmaids and grooms gifts

Get Married and Live Happily Ever After

Bridal Shower

2 Weeks Before

Day Before Reconfirm Pick up times

Final Dress Fitting Last minute dolling up Give shot list to photographer Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner Review music with DJ/Band Give Bridal Party Gifts Review RSVP’s and wrangle up the stragglers Update the Registry

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Wedding Favors guests will love Ideas for wedding favors and gifts that everyone will fill good about.

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ou faithfully recycle at home, use a refillable BPA-free water bottle and charge your smartphone with a solar recharger. When it’s time to choose wedding favors for your own nuptials, or a gift for someone else’s wedding, do you find environmental awareness taking a backseat to style? It doesn’t have to.

supplies like canning funnels and jars, and canning and pickling spices like bay leaves, peppercorns, celery seed, cumin, dill, mustard and salt, or even a Pickling Spice Blend.

It’s possible to give wedding favors and gifts that are natural, responsible and useful - items that everyone can feel good about giving and receiving. Kitchen-related products commonly appear on many wedding registry lists, and creative couples often distribute small pieces of kitchen ware as favors to their guests. For gifts that are sustainable, creative and practical, look beyond the pots, pans and dishes to the food itself.

If you’re planning your own wedding, food favors can excite guests and fulfill your desire to be eco-friendly and creative.

Food-inspired wedding gifts Many newly married couples will be setting up their homes together for the first time. They may already have the basics, but you can help them round out their kitchen with some useful utensils they may not have realized they need.

For example, every cook can benefit from a well-stocked spice rack. Purchase an attractive spice rack and fill it with sustainably sourced, natural spices like those from Frontier Co-op. Choose basic spices like versatile organic basil, cinnamon and garlic, then add in some exotic options such as garam masala (an all-purpose Indian spice), Himalayan pink salt or black sesame seed.

Making pizza at home can be a fun, easy meal for busy newlyweds. Put together a pizza-making kit, complete with a quality pizza cutter, a pizza stone for baking, a wedge of Parmesan, some baking yeast, and pizza seasonings like oregano, basil and garlic powder. Place everything in a basket and complete the gift with a book of pizza recipes.

Gardening is a popular activity, and if your newlywed friends will be trying their hand at it, they may find themselves with lots of leftover produce. Giving canning supplies as a wedding gift can be a great way to encourage their love of growing their own produce, while helping ensure nothing goes to waste. Fill a canning pot with

Wedding favors they’ll savor

Tea is a soothing and sophisticated beverage that can make a great wedding favor. Simply purchase heartshaped tea infusers and fill them with a variety of loose teas, such as chamomile, peppermint, Darjeeling, Earl Grey, or black, green or white teas. Accent the favor with a ribbon in your wedding colors.

Pepper is a ubiquitous seasoning in numerous cuisines from around the world. For a useful, welcome wedding favor that will expand guest’s culinary knowledge, why not give different gourmet peppers of the world? Peppercorns come in a variety of shades and heat levels - and even shapes! Present guests with a small peppermill and a selection of gourmet peppercorns.

Grilling is a great American past-time. If your wedding will take place in spring or summer, grilling spices and seasoning blends can be a fun wedding favor that will turn into your guest’s go-to item when they grill. Look for a variety of seasonings that work with steaks, fish, fowl and even vegetables. Choose organic seasonings from purveyors like Frontier Co-Op, which practices sustainable sourcing, so that you know you’re giving guests quality, organic seasonings.

Organic, sustainably sourced food gifts can be creative, fun and useful wedding favors and gifts - and a great way to show Mother Nature some love while you’re celebrating your own love story. To learn more about sustainably sourced spices and seasonings, visit www. frontiercoop.com. [Image by Inspiration and Design Photography]

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“

The best color in the world is the one that looks good on YOU” - COCO CHANEL

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He Asked She Said “YES” 22 Pretty Pear Bride Magazine

Leah and Blake

Photography by Southern Jewel Photography South Carolina

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This Asheville couple is as cute as can be! We had a hard time finding a location for their shoot, and decided to just shoot at their apartment and I am sure glad we did! We got some great shots and then headed just down the street to a little park and got some adorable shots on the bridge! The light was perfect and their smiles were too!

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Rebecca and Jason Banks

by Inspiration and Design Photography North Carolina

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Photographer: Inspiration & Design Photography | Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal | Cake Designer: Decadent Designs Bakery | Caterer: H & M Catering | Event Venue: Mount Holly Citizen Center | Dress Designer: Vera Wang

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Korie and Frank Dy

by Petronella Photography New York

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Photographer: Petronella Photography | Second Shooter: Alan Tumusiime | Shoes: BCBG Paris | Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Black By Vera Wang | Jewelry: Breitling | Shoes: Clarks | DJ: Dropkick Entertainment | Bridesmaid Dresses: eShakti.com | Floral Designer: Flowers by Kathryn Williams | Bridal Attire: Galina Signature Collection | Hair Stylist:Hair Sense | Jewelry: Liori Diamonds | Makeup Artist: Makeup by Bobby | Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Men’s Wearhouse | Reception Venue: Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden | Cinema and Video: Whitley Harris

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Tell us about how you met. We met through a then mutual group of friends. We were hanging out at the same diner nearly every night. He kind of weirded me out at first, but 6 months after getting to know him I realized how much I liked him. I didn’t say anything because another girl in the group had been verbal about liking him and I didn’t want any issues.

I noticed that he probably liked me too when he started hanging out later with me after everyone would go home.

He’d have me go with him to bring food to his friend (the same guy who ended up being his best man) who was working nights He tried holding my hand under the table. Our first date wasn’t planned as such, it just turned out that way.

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Best memory from your wedding? That’s a hard one! For him, he had a few. First was when he first saw me all dressed in the Chinese Scholar garden. Second was being announced as husband and wife at the end of the ceremony. Third was when we entered the reception hall. He says it was “epic” because he felt like he had an entourage. For me, I honestly don’t know. I’d have to go with seeing him all dressed and ready for the day. Seeing how happy he was to see me really made my day.

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My wedding dress was a short, fitted strapless dress with matching bolero. The dress had some ruching for texture and the bolero had a ruffled collar and has a vintage look. It was made by Galina Signature.

My favorite accessory was my veil and fascinator. Knowing how expensive they can be and being a crafty individual, making it myself made it much cheaper and very satisfying to see I can make one just as good looking. It was also a nice touch of something NOT white.

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I knew 3 months into dating him that he was it for me. He, on the other hand, always pictured himself being a “hermit” and never thought about marriage until after we’d been together several years. I had to wait, very patiently, for him to realize that getting married was what he ultimately wanted.

The day we got engaged was a normal day. I had asked for it to be that way. I didn’t want a birthday, holiday, etc. We went for brunch at a wedding venue we had been interested in checking out. Turns out it wasn’t as nice as it seemed online...lol. The whole ride there, he was very weird.

More so than normal. He was fidgety during the meal. After we ate we decided to take a walk across the street to check out their barn because I had liked the way it looked online. We got out of the truck and I heard him rooting around for something. I asked what he was doing and he yelled “NOTHING!!!”. I got my camera out and started taking some pictures of the barn. I heard rustling behind me and turned around to him kneeling down in the snow with the ring box held up. He quickly blurted out “will you marry me?” because he was nervous. First I teared up and then started laughing because I noticed he had the ring box closed. I couldn’t see the ring.

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What advice would you give to other brides? Take it easy and don’t let anyone stress you out!!! There are so many people around you (friends, wedding party members, family, and people not even a part of the whole process) that will try telling you what they think, what they like/dislike, how they think you should do it, etc... Feel free to listen, it doesn’t hurt. If you can accommodate someone WITHOUT compromising what you want, go for it. But don’t let it bother you and do not let anyone talk you out of something you want for your wedding. It’s you and your husband to be’s day. No one else’s. Make it how you want, you’re only doing this once. How did you come up with your wedding theme? I had always wanted a vintage look and always wanted it in the fall. I was just never sure what kind of vintage I wanted. The first wedding dress I really ever liked was in high school, and it had a Victorian look to it. I obviously didn’t do that...lol.

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When I first saw the dress I wore, I knew that was it for me. Even with plenty of other looking around, nothing else did it for me. I even had it in my possession 10 months before we got engaged, believe it or not. After that, I started looking into building it around that style. I kept the fall details with the bare branches and pumpkins on the table. Vintage details were in the 50’s style dress on the girls and handmade veil on myself. Cultural details were few. I had asked his mom about anything being important to include and only got one thing, her name being on the invitation. To them, it’s important to be acknowledged that way. I happily obliged with that. But one I really liked was the Chinese Scholar garden at Snug Harbor. It allowed us a nice touch of his background without it overwhelming everything else. To him, he could have taken it or left it. But to me, even if it was something small, I thought it was important. I felt like it was respectful to his family and wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

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The bridesmaids received a locket from Origami Owl and they each got charms with their initials, birthstone, a little wedding ring, and one that reflected either their occupation, likes, or hobbies. I also made their wedding day jewelry with gray freshwater pearls and sterling silver clasps.

The groomsmen received skeleton pocket watches for the day of the wedding and a tactical/survival style knife, which had their names engraved on them. Two of them got caught cutting their food with it at the reception.?I’m not really sure how if either of us really made a move. It all just kind of happened naturally, and on its own.

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1st Dance Song: Josh Groban - When you say you love me. If it weren’t for my grandmother, I probably wouldn’t like Josh Groban as much as I do. The words to this song are not sugary, which I didn’t want. It also made me feel like my grandmother was there, which meant a lot to me.

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Midwest Fall Elegance

Photography by Alexis June Weddings Indiana

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Photography: Alexis June Weddings | Modeling: Korey Gonzalez | Makeup and Hair: Stacey and Co. | Florals: Molly and Myrtle | Dress: Watters from Brides By Young | Venue: Mustard Seed Gardens

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Cover Shoot

Glamour

and Grace!

Sydney’s Closet 2016 Bridal Collection

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Model-Ana Garcia, Jorge Luna | Shoot Coordinator: Marta Rivera | Photography: Karism Photography | Jewelry: Krystalos High-Fashion Jewelry | Flowers: Adamas Events | Dress: Sydney’s Closet

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Missed out on summer vacation?

There’s still time to relax in the fall

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ummer is supposed to be the season for vacation and relaxation, but if you were too busy to take time off, you’re not alone. More than 40 percent of Americans didn’t use their paid time off (PTO) in 2014, according to Project: Time Off, a study by the U.S. Travel Association. But it’s not too late to take much-needed vacation; fall is a great time to relax, recharge and go on that trip you deserve.

During the busy summer months when it seems like everyone is taking vacation, it can be hard to slip away from responsibilities at home or at work. Travel costs can be higher during peak summer season, but when fall arrives, prices of accommodations, attractions and transportation drop in many desirable destinations. Availability and pricing can make fall the perfect time to travel for anyone who felt like they just couldn’t fit a vacation into their schedule or budget over the summer.

A bounty of beaches While beach destinations can be crowded and expensive during the summer, locations such as Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, offers fall travelers a second chance at summer with its warm temperatures and less crowded beaches once schools are back in session. What’s more, attractions remain open well into the season, and a variety of packages and

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incentives are available. For example, the Myrtle Beach area created a fall campaign designed to inspire travelers to visit its 60 miles of pristine coastline during the off-season.

Myrtle Beach locals often refer to September and October as the “perfect time of year” because the weather is still beautiful, ocean waters retain their summer warmth, there’s more elbow room on the beach and accommodations become even more affordable. These positive qualities make fall an even more relaxing season in Myrtle Beach.

Autumn can be an ideal time for couples, families with pre-school-age children, honeymooners, bridal groups, retirees and groups to visit beach towns. In addition to popular family attractions that remain open, a number of shopping and entertainment options make fall travel appealing. Opportunities for relaxation range from spa treatments and winery tours to horseback riding on the beach and feasting on southern comfort food.

Traveling to Myrtle Beach is easy for many visitors. The prime beach location is a short drive from many major metropolitan areas on the eastern seaboard, and the Myrtle Beach International Airport offers travelers non-stop and easy connections from across the country and around the world. To learn more about why fall is the perfect time to visit the Myrtle Beach area, go to www.visitmyrtlebeach.com.

Mountain resort highs While ski resorts fill up when snow arrives, fall is not yet peak season in many mountain areas. You don’t have to be a skier to savor the natural beauty and top-notch accommodation of mountain resort areas. Many offer a variety of outdoor activities that don’t require the presence of snow, such as hiking, rock climbing, fishing and water sports.

National park majesties Millions of Americans visit the most popular National Parks each year, and the majority of them do so during summer months when schools are out. The Grand Canyon, for example, in 2014, the months of June, July and August accounted for about 40 percent of all the visits to the park that year, according to National Park Service data. To learn more about the national park services or to find a location near you, visit ww.nps.gov.

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If you met your beloved at a concert or your spouse has a special love for Adele, Bruce Springsteen or Elvis, hire a celebrity look-alike from a local theater to make a surprise appearance.

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edding planning season is in full swing and trend forecasts show more brides selecting destination weddings than ever before. Not only are destination weddings an affordable alternative to massive traditional weddings of past generations, they also make it easy for couples to create a customizable wedding that perfectly suits their personalities.

If you think a destination wedding might be right for you, these ideas for creating an incredibly distinctive event are sure to inspire:

Unique ceremony locations A beach is typically the top choice for destination weddings because it gives guests a vacation setting to enjoy before, during and after your big day. Keep in mind, just because you select a beach locale doesn’t mean you must have a seaside ceremony. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a top location for destination weddings, but there are countless gardens, pergolas and fountains couples can choose as the backdrop for their vows.

Standout accommodations Big weddings are becoming a thing of the past; consider intimate spaces that bring guests together in an incredible setting instead. For example, the Bridge at North Beach Plantation in Myrtle Beach is a luxury penthouse suspended within the bridge that connects the two towers at the 4-diamond resort. With seven bedrooms, seven and a half baths, a media room and sweeping views of the ocean, everyone is sure to enjoy their time together to the fullest.

Localized gift bags Although the ceremony may be intimate, guests will likely be traveling from all over the country. Start the experience right by creating localized gift bags that can be placed in rooms to greet your guests upon their arrival. Instead of typical gift-bag goodies like mints and water, delight guests with locally sourced items like

chocolates or lotion from the resident boutique.

Live artists Want to make your reception one of a kind? Hire a local artist to capture the moment in a memorable keepsake. For example, some artists specialize in painting live events; you could hire one to capture the magic of the gathering. Guests will love watching the painting evolve throughout the night, and you’ll get a special piece of art you can display at home.

Hand-painted cakes One of the hottest new wedding trends is handpainted cakes where a master baker uses artistry to create beautiful patterns and floral designs on fondant and other types of frosting. Cake artist Heidi Vukov of Croissants, Myrtle Beach, works closely with brides planning destination weddings to ensure their handpainted cake is perfect for their big day. It’s a refreshing approach to classic wedding cake styles, and it is sure to impress guests.

Reception surprises Unexpected surprises tied to the couple’s personality can make a magical day that much more memorable. For example, if you met your beloved at a concert or your spouse has a special love for Adele, Bruce Springsteen or Elvis, hire a celebrity look-alike from a local theater to make a surprise appearance.

Memorable thank-you gift Forget the box of candy almonds! Your guests came from across the country, so thank them with a special gift. Look no further than the local culture for inspiration. For example, the Gullah people local to the Myrtle Beach area weave gorgeous sweet grass baskets in traditional designs, a perfect gift for wedding guests. Another fun option would be to gift locally made hammocks, such as those from Pawley’s Island Hammocks.

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Looking for Heaven on Earth?

Honeymoon in Jamaica at Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall!

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I had the time of my life. From the gorgeous scenery to the amazing food to the secluded nooks to cuddle with your special someone. It was heaven on earth!

Reflecting the vibrant spirit and colorful culture of Jamaica, Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall provides authentic hospitality and Service From the Heart™. From attentive rum sommeliers and resort butlers to our tranquil spa and a 24hour room service inspired by our executive chef, we are the Evolution of All-Inclusive™. Indulge in unexpected adventures, embrace pure relaxation or celebrate your romance. It’s all included - dining, playing, relaxing – on the pristine shores of Jamaica.

Playful, sexy and exotic, Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall is an indulgent escape for adults seeking refuge from the outside world. Nestled along a pristine white beach and the Caribbean Sea, with views of the Blue Mountains, our Montego Bay resort is an enchanting destination where you are free to relax and indulge.

Sip a hand-shaken cocktail by the pool and swim-up bar or enjoy moonlit serenity in the bubbly hot tub. Enjoy a complimentary round of golf through 2016, or a romantic picnic on a sunset beach our concierge will be happy to arrange. At every turn, you’ll find chic and sophistication on a whole new level..

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Offering exclusivity and luxury, Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall features adult-only accommodations, from indulgent OneBedroom Oceanfront Butler Suites to stylish Resort View Suites. Beautiful dĂŠcor, designer toiletries, his and her bathrobes, and plush slippers, along with a stocked minibar will ensure you are immersed in island bliss.

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Whatever suite you choose to make of your vacation home, you’ll find stylish details that create an ambiance of elegance and comfort. Savor chef’s specialties delivered 24-hours through our in-suite dining menus and served on your private balcony. Our all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica also offers luxurious SwimUp Suites where you can walk out and dive in to the sparkling pool. All Zilara rooms come with fully furnished private terraces where you can relax and enjoy views of the radiant pool, lush gardens, or the Caribbean Sea.

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www.prettypearbride.com Photography by Alexis JunePhotography