Winter 2014 Volume 12
100+
Inspiring Photos of Plus Size Brides
The Engagement Issue
Save the Dates, Invitations, Programs, Favors, Thank Yous & more!
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Content
Engagement 101 10
He Asked, She Said “YES” 16
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Editor’s Pick
16 Christina & Zachary
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Always a Bridesmaid
26 Courtney & Todd
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Bridal Portraits 38
Real Weddings 48
38 Rustic Bridal Portraits
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Kirima & Nathan ~ Cover shoot
64 Natasha & Clifford 80 Shannon & Baldwin
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Stay Connected with Us
prettypearbride
www.prettypearbride.com
Email hello@prettypearbride.com Phone 317-426-9412 Real Wedding Features: 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. Editorial Submissions: 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 Advertising: To advertise in Pretty Pear Bride Magazine please contact advertising@prettypearbride. com. Advertising requests for prettypearbride.com should also contact advertising@prettypearbride.com. 6 Pretty Pear Bride Magazine
Cover Credits Photography: Gina Kolsrud Photography | Florist: Kate Ryan Design | Venue: Bentley Projects | Coordinator and Candy Buffet: Celebrations by Amy Bacon | Hair: Andy Biggs Hair | Wedding Dress: Allure Bridals Cater: Santa Barbara Catering | Bar: Shake it Up | DJ: Desert House Productions | Photo Booth: Snapbooth Entertainment | Cakes and Cake Stand: Piece of Cake | Harpist: Meghan Elizabeth Thorr | Samba Dancers : Capoeira Arizona | Limo: In the Scene Limo
Editor In Chief: Shafonne Myers Contributors: Kristina Denise, Advertising Sales: 317-426-9412 advertising@prettypearbride
Editor’s Letter
This issue is our end of the year winter issue which pays homage to our engaged couples. This is the issue we coin as our engagement issue, so it’s all about the engaged plus size bride. We have 2 engagement sessions in this issue that are so stinking cute that it will melt your heart. We also have a few articles that will prove to be helpful. The winter is such a fun time of year to get married because there is so much natural beauty and decorations that can be used from all around you. So we made sure to share weddings and sessions that showed this. We also have a bridal portrait session that will draw you in with the bride’s beauty. It is always been my ultimate goal to share with the world how gorgeous and fabulous plus size and curvy brides and brides to be are. Gorgeous enough to be featured and reveled at in our own wedding magazine, so I made it happen. As the end of 2014 draws to an end there are so many things that I must be thankful for. My husband and kids are a constant beam of light and joy in my life. They are truly the reason why I keep pushing through on those tough days that I have. And the other main players in all that I do are you all, my
continuous reminders of how much “I have to keep pushing forward”. You, my wonderful readers, are who keep me going when I’m having a rough day. When I open my email and there is an email letting me know that, PPB was who helped a plus size bride struggling to find bridal inspiration. Or maybe it’s the curvy bride that walked down the aisle feeling like the most stunning bride EVER, because she was encouraged by what we’ve done here at Pretty Pear Bride. 2015 has tons of things in store for us, we will be rolling out a brand new site and brand at the beginning of next year and I can’t wait to share it with y’all. So have a great holiday and we’ll see you in 2015!!
Shafonne Myers Shafonne Myers/Owner
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In Every Issue
Editor’s Pick My favorite picks of things that I can’t live without.
1.
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Planning
Always the Bridesmaid And Loving It!
“Engagement 101� By Kristina Denise
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I
’m Kristina Denise, frequent bridesmaid and I’m switching the popular saying, Always the Bridesmaid, Never the Bride around. I say Always the Bridesmaid…. And Loving It!
Before you say I Do, you must answer Will YOU?
As in Will You Marry Me? When thinking about engagement, lots of questions pop up. The ones I hear my engaged and married friends talk about the most are: 1.
Can a woman ask a man to marry her? SHOULD she?
2.
What type of Ring should I ask for, how do I choose?
Can a woman ask a man to marry her, Should she ask? According to Wikihow, not only is this ok but there is an 11 step guide on exactly how to do this. With rules such as “some women provide a token ring, such as a beer tab, at the moment of proposal” {WikiHow} This wouldn’t be my engagement plan but the Sadie Hawkins approach works for some. It’s not unheard of for the bride to propose, just make it suitable to your guy. You may want a romantic hot air balloon ride, chocolate, and candles as a proposal but your future fiancé might prefer a different approach.
Ring Type = Know your a, b, C’s The 4 C’s of diamond shopping - Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat weight. Cut - think of this as the shape of a diamond, examples, round, princess, cushion, and pear.
Image by Casey Hendrickson Photography
Clarity - is how many inclusions (internal characteristic) and blemishes (external characteristics). Think of them as small flaws. When someone says they have a VVS diamond they are referring to Very small included, while a flawless diamond means no flaws visible under 10x magnification, so basically its Beyonce diamond. FLAWLESS Color- is how clear the stone is; here the absence of color is what you’re looking for in a really nice diamond. Carat - refers to the weight of the stone, heavier, means bigger diamonds.
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Marquise
Princess
Oval
Round
Heart
Asscher
Emerald
Radiant
Pear
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Only a bride and her fiancé can determine if size matters when it comes to rings. However, in case you’re asked to help with the selection, (some boyfriends ask the best friends opinion in order to surprise their future fiancé), so know your BFF’s Four C preferences. Other things to consider, band size- if you’re plus size you may need extended ring sizes; be sure to get your ring finger measured so you know what size to get.
Conflict Free Diamonds Coming into fashion recently are “conflict free” diamonds meaning the diamonds are mined using strict labor and ethical standards. If you would like a conflict free diamond, Brilliant Earth, http://www.brilliantearth.com/our-movement/ whose pictures are shown throughout this article, guarantees all of their diamonds are responsibly sourced. They go up to ring size 9 and have extended ring sizes available upon request. So if you’ve ever been a bridesmaid, I hope you save this guide, because one day you’ll be the bride.
Kristina Denise is a sci-fi loving, bibliophile, and self proclaimed Black American Princess. She’s a communications specialist by trade; writing newsletters, press releases, and memorandums and, a social butterfly by nature. When she’s not watching politics, organizing bridal showers and bachelorette parties; she’s ripping the runway as a plus size model. She’s fiercely loyal to family and friends and thanks God for them everyday. She can be reached on Twitter @_KristinaDenise.
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Countdown to Your Wedding
Set-up room blocks for out of town guests Have fun and Register Begin Hair and Makeup Trials
6 Months Before
12 Months Before
Send Save the Dates
Tackle the Guest List
Book Honeymoon
Dream about your Wedding
Book the getaway car {if needed}
Talk Money Figure out who’s paying for what Book a venue for ceremony and reception and settle on a date
Book transportation for guests {if needed} Order Bridesmaid Dresses Purchase wedding bands
Hire a wedding planner, if you are using one
4 Months Before 10 Months Before
Select Groom and Groomsmen attire
Book an officiate Plan Rehearsal Dinner Look for the perfect dress Confirm Vendors Pick your bridal party Decide on Hair and Makeup Shop for Vendors Take Engagement Photos
8 Months Before Book the caterer, band/DJ, florist, photographer and any rentals
2 Months Before Mail Invitations Buy gifts for bridal party, parents, and your fiancĂŠ Purchase Day of Accessories
Finalize and order your dress Confirm Day of Transporation
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6 Weeks Before
48 Hours Before
Apply for Marriage License
Pick up your dress
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
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 grooms gifts
and
Bridal Shower
2 Weeks Before
Day Before Reconfirm Pick up times
Final Dress Fitting Last minute dolling up Give shot list to photographer Review music with DJ/Band Review RSVP’s and wrangle up the stragglers Update the Registry
1 Week Before Final Headcount
Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner Give Bridal Party Gifts
Day of Exchange presents with your groom Give the rings to the best man and maid of honor
Finalize Seating chart Eat small, light meals Get Facials and Waxings Get Gorgeous Break in your shoes Give any last minute information to vendors
Get Married and Live Happily Ever After
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www.prettypearbride.com Image by David and Tania Photography 16 Pretty Pear Bride Magazine
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He Asked & She said “YES”
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Christina Harrison and Zachary Schoolman by Casey Hendrickson Photography
Zach knew that Christina’s favorite city in the entire world is the romantic Charleston, SC. When their trip was planned for mid July, he started planning how to do this to make it special. Christina already had a good idea he was going to propose, so Zach started throwing her off by constantly proposing every day with random objects. Their first evening together, he proposed with a mint and their dinner leftovers, to which Christina just rolled her eyes and laughed. Pretty Pear Bride Magazine 19
The next day, they made a stop in the downtown area, where he proposed with moon pies, before heading to the college where it would happen for real! The sun was shining down on them as they went into this little tucked away garden to share in a private moment where he would ask her to make him the happiest man on earth.
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“Is this for real?!� she said with tears in her eyes. It certainly was! He poured his heart out to her, she kissed him, nodded her head yes, and then they both laughed as he placed the beautiful ring on her finger for good.
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Engagement
Courtney Todd and Ryan Howard by Triangle H Photography Alberta, Ca
Courtney and Ryan braved the cold (-30C) and some possible frostbite for their session, though they were sure not to let it show! Despite the cold, they had a lot of fun shooting these engagement photos. Plus, they both had no problems snuggling up close to keep warm and get some great shots!
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Styled Shoot
Rustic Bridal Portraits
by Casey Hendrickson Photography North Carolina
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Photography: Casey Hendrickson Photography | Invitation Designer: Ellis Jewelers|Hair Stylist: Hair Topia | Venue: Il Bella Gardens | Jewelry: The Bead Lady and BluEyed Horse and Eye Do Designs | Beauty: Belize Salon And Day Spa | Floral Designer: Chelish Moore Flowers | Dress: The Bride’s Choice
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Kirima and Nathan by Gina Kolsrud Photography Phoenix, AZ
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Kirima and Nathan wanted an elegant yet intimate affair to celebrate their wedding this May in Phoenix. They kept their guest list to under 70 people because they wanted to shower these special guests with love and entertainment which they felt would have been difficult with a larger group. Having the ceremony at St. Mary’s Basilica was important to the couple as Nathan’s faith is near and dear to his heart, and provided the opulent backdrop that they desired for their vows. Guests enjoyed drinks and a harp serenade during cocktail hour while observing the art installations at the Bentley Projects, along with the interactive photobooth. The party dined at lavish tables adorned with gold tableware, lofty floral centerpieces, and purple linens that gleamed under the candlelight around the room. Whether it was at the head table with the velvet Kings chairs or the Victorian couches at cocktail hour, vintage furniture further emphasized the high-end designs. 52 Pretty Pear Bride Magazine
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Kirima wanted to ensure that no one went hungry and that included making sure everyone’s sweet tooth was satisfied. In addition to the almond cream wedding cake, guests were also able to make goodie bags at the candy buffet with chocolate truffles, yogurt covered pretzels, macaroons, and more. To optimize on the sugar high these sweets provided, the DJ kept dance music playing once the formal portion of the night was complete and all were surprised by the trio of Brazilian dancers who not only performed but taught lessons as well while wearing their full headpieces. Everyone was smiling from start to finish of the 7 hour event which was the exact goal Kirima and Nathan had in mind for their wedding. 56 Pretty Pear Bride Magazine
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Photography: Gina Kolsrud Photography | Florist: Kate Ryan Design | Venue: Bentley Projects | Coordinator and Candy Buffet: Celebrations by Amy Bacon | Hair: Andy Biggs Hair | Cater: Santa Barbara Catering | Wedding Dress: Allure Bridals | Bar: Shake it Up | DJ: Desert House Productions | Photo Booth: Snapbooth Entertainment Cakes and Cake Stand: Piece of Cake | Harpist: Meghan Elizabeth Thorr | Samba Dancers : Capoeira Arizona | Limo: In the Scene Limo | Makeup: Mac Up Artist Pretty Pear Bride Magazine 61
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Natasha and Clifford Skuce by Debbie Lourens Photography Cape Town, South Africa
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Your advice for other plus size brides: Find a dress that you feel absolutely amazing in. If things don’t go according to plan on the day, don’t let it spoil your day … the guests most probably won’t even notice. Most importantly be good to your suppliers because they work so hard to make your day special. Pretty Pear Bride Magazine 71
How did the two of you meet? In 2009 we started working for the same company just a mere month apart and became instant friends. That friendship quickly grew into something more. Describe your engagement: It was Clifford’s birthday, and I had planned a romantic dinner or so he thought. Instead it was a surprise party with our friends. He had the ring in his pocket but ended up proposing when we got home. The weather on your wedding was: It was a very cold 11˚C with intermittent rain throughout the day. The weather God’s were kind enough to also provide some sunshine during the afternoon. Describe your wedding flowers: Organic arrangements that included succulents, driftwood and seashells. Your first dance song: “Love was made for us” by Cleo What would you differently, if you could? We would have included a videographer to capture the ceremony and speeches at the reception. How would you have spent your money differently, if you could? We wouldn’t change anything in terms of the way we spent our money on the wedding.
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Describe your DIY dĂŠcor, if any: I was very much the DIY bride who made as much of the dĂŠcor as I possibly could. I made the final invititation, wedding wands, mini succulent favours, bow ties and even the bouquet frames.
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Photography: Debbie Lourens Photography| Floral Designer: Oolong Blue Flowers | Caterer: Lagoon Beach Hotel | DJ: E-Rod Productions | Cake Designer: Frostings the Cupcake Boutique | Co-Event Planner: Ashleigh Bryan | Event Venue: Lagoon Beach Hotel | Jewelry: Lovisa | Invitations: Lezannes Designs | Wedding Dress: Maggie Sottero, Cindy from Weddings by Design | Groom’s and Groomsmen Attire: Suit Hire | Hair and Makeup: Blush Make-up and Hair Services | Rental and Decor: Style Hire Exclusive Event Supplier | Tent: Touareg Tents | Music and Entertainment: Oh My Gosh Productions
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The most unique element of the day: Our entire wedding was unique because it was planned to be simple, interactive, relaxed and fun. Having pocket lounges instead of a formal seating arrangement brought the concept together. Describe any unique aspects of the beverages you served: Due to the extremely cold weather we opted for a hot chocolate station for pre-drinks after the ceremony. Everyone really enjoyed it and it kept the guests occupied while photos were taken. For the reception we had wine, wine and more wine seeing that we live in the wine region in South Africa.
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Our favorite detail of the wedding was: There are so many, but I would have to say including our kids in the ceremony made our union as a family official and all the more special. We are also overwhelmed with our amazing wedding photographs that captured the raw emotions of the day. Three adjectives that describe the day: Unique, Emotional, Fun What has surprised you most during the first few months of marriage? I thought it wouldn’t be different, but it is. We are happier and even more in love than before. Even the kids are happier and more secure.
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Shannon and Baldwin by Southernly Studios Mint Hill, NC
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Photography: Southernly Studios | Venue: Old Sycamore Golf Plantation |Wedding Dress: Labeautes.com | Makeup: Vee Makeup Artistry | Hair: Annie Cooper
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www.prettypearbride.com Photography by Debbie Lourens Photography