WINTER/SPRING 2015
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Winter-Spring 2015 Editor Melanie Warner Spencer Creative Director Tiffani Reding Amedeo Photographer Theresa Cassagne Contributing Editors Mirella Cameran, Laura Groesbeck, Sarah Ravits, Lisa Tudor Contributing Writers Becca Hensley, Kristen Himmelberg, Jillian Kramer, Kelly Massicot Intern Shelby Simon
Sales Manager Aimee Arceneaux Rudd Account Executive Brooke LeBlanc
Production Manager/Web Staci McCarty Production Designer Ali Sullivan, Monique DiPietro Traffic Manager Erin Duhe
Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne President Alan Campell Executive Vice President/ Editor-In-Chief Errol Laborde Vice President of Sales Colleen Monaghan Director of Marketing and Events Cheryl Lemoine Distribution Manager John Holzer Customer Service Sara Kelemencky
A Publication of Renaissance Publishing, LLC Printed in USA 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123 Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380 New Orleans Bride Magazine is published twice a year by Renaissance Publishing, LLC., 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005; (504) 828-1380. It is sold at newsstands throughout Greater New Orleans six times a year, complimentary at retail locations and available online at brideneworleans.com. Postage paid at Metairie, LA, and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005. Copyright Š 2015 New Orleans Bride Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. The trademark New Orleans Bride is registered. New Orleans Bride is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and artwork even if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. The opinions expressed in New Orleans Bride Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the magazine managers or owners.
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c ont e nt s
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14
from the editor
18 beauty
Perfect Timing
Your Beauty Countdown to the Big Day
Picture Perfect
Ensuring that your big day memories are on point
102 LOCATIONS
A Sense of Place
Hairapy
10 wedding venues with beauty, style and Big Easy flair
Picking the best hairstyle for your face shape
26 makeup
Weather Proof Your Makeup
Whether you’re outside in the blistering sun or second lining in the French Quarter make sure your makeup stays flawless all day
110 FOOD
Local Flavor
Farm-to-table fare gives guests true taste of New Orleans
114 MUSIC
30 GIFTS
Let’s Dance
Par Excellence!
The best baubles for your registry
Set the mood for your wedding festivities with tips from the experts
37 INVITATIONS
Sweet Suite
Stationery ideas for every personality and style
45 CAKES
Blossoming Confections
Floral cakes add a touch of romance and whimsy to your wedding festivities
51 JEWELRY
Shimmer and Shine
Bridal bijoux with big day flair
59 BRIDESMAIDS
Setting the Tone
Bridesmaids dresses in an array of flattering hues and styles to complement each of your ladies in waiting
65 LOVE IN BLOOM
65
22 hair
51
98 PHOTOGRAPHY
Bridal Gowns, Men’s attire, Flowers and Jewelry
86 Getting Hitched Without A Hitch
116 TRANSPORTATION
Get Them to the Church
Trends in cars for couples
121 real weddings 148 honeymoon
Just Do It
Honeymoons that go beyond the lounge chair
152 ADVIcE
Wedding Etiquette
Questions answered
156 CHECKLIST
Check It Twice
There’s a lot that goes into wedding planning, so don’t feel bad if you’re having a hard time keeping track of it all. Use our handy checklist to stay organized.
158 in this issue
160 FAVOR
Wedding planners, counselors and brides offer their advice
93 accomodations
Guest Stars
A peek inside three hotels that will keep your loved ones comfortable, pampered and well-rested for your wedding celebration
On the Cover: Coco Couture Tiffany blue tulle gown with beaded illusion neckline and modified cap sleeves with demure A-line skirt by New Orleans Designer Courtney Lee Ippolito, exclusively at Linda Lee Bridal & Boutique; 2 carat diamond cluster engagement ring and 7 carat diamond tennis bracelet at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers. Floral headpiece by Megan Guip for Wilhelm-nyc Photographed by: Theresa Cassagne
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f rom t h e e d itor
Editor’s notebook
O
ver the years, I’ve had the good fortune of serving as editor of not one, but now two wedding magazines. It took only one issue to learn that planning a bridal magazine is much like organizing and coordinating a wedding. From the hair, makeup and dresses, to cake, music and location, location, location, every detail must be considered to create an entertaining, visually inviting and memorable experience. Much like those of you currently planning your nuptials, the New Orleans Bride magazine team of editors and stylists have been all over town scouting New Orleans’ best wedding boutiques, traveling to countless venues and consulting with the pros and experts to discover the latest trends, ideas, inspiration and advice. This Winter/Spring 2015 issue is of course my first as editor of this particular bridal magazine and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with you. Along with the rest of the team, I’m thrilled to present the best that the Crescent City has to offer, so that you and your spouse-tobe can create the wedding of your dreams. It’s chock-full of resources to make your planning and preparation easier and more fun. Our beauty timeline, on page 18, will guarantee you look your best on the big day. Fashionistas and tomboys alike know it’s all about the dress, so don’t miss the spectacular fashion spread on page 65, featuring gorgeous gowns to fit every woman’s particular brand of beauty. If you are still stressed out, be sure to read our feature about bridal and pre-wedding counseling on page 86, and get hitched without a hitch. That and so much more await you in this issue. Let’s plan a wedding!
Starlets filming in the Hollywood South are flocking to Maison de Cheveux for a fix of the top-shelf hair care product, Oribe. This eponymous line by the famed New York hairstylist protects hair from environmental damage and will keep your mane silky, shiny and beautifully scented. It brought this editor’s lifeless locks back from the dead.
Prior to its launch to the public, we were invited to a private viewing of the new Tiffany T Collection at Tiffany & Co. The pieces, created by the storied company’s new design director Francesca Amfitheatrof, are — much like the readers of New Orleans Bride — modern, sophisticated, chic and bold. We think the Tiffany T diamond line bracelet in 18-karat white gold will look perfect paired with your dream dress.
- Melanie Warner Spencer, Editor
P.S. Be sure to visit our New Orleans Bride wedding blog, “Let Them Eat Cake” at MyNewOrleans.com/LetThemEatCake, for more gorgeous photos, tips and trends, event info, advice, ideas, inspiration, interviews with local wedding professionals and bridal buzz!
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Locals flocked to the festive opening party of the new West Elm on Magazine Street. While sipping a glass of wine in the spacious showroom, we perused the wedding registry and fell head over heels for the Gold Flatware Sets. It was love at first sight!
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beauty
Perfect Timing Your beauty countdown to the Big Day By Mirella Cameran
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e all know planning a wedding involves myriad decisions: Invitations, locations, catering and on and on. In fact, there are so many things to decide upon, 40 percent of brides spend between 10 to 15 hours a week (according to the Huffington Post) planning. In the lead-up to their wedding, 47 percent spend between 1 to 9 hours weekly. The editors at New Orleans Bride believe it’s important that, within this mayhem of wedding organization, the beauty planning for the bride is not overlooked. In fact, we think it should be at the heart of the logistics. To this end, we spoke to leading dermatologist and co-founder of Audubon Dermatology, Dr. Deirdre Hooper to give us an expert’s countdown to the big day: Beauty Planning: Six months ahead “There’s no magical lotion or potion to
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make you wedding day ready, planning ahead is the best medicine. “We start at six months, with a skincare consultation to decide if you need any injectables. Botox lasts between three and four months and the fillers between six months and two years, depending on the kind you are using.” “We also look at whether you would benefit from laser treatments or peels for acne scarring, pigmentation or to improve texture.
“It’s also important at the six-month mark to start a professionally directed skin care regime. You can see the results in the first month but the more time you use it, the more improvement you will see. This should include a sunscreen, topical antioxidant to protect the skin and help fade brown spots and a retinoid to help with texture, pigmentation and fine lines. We would also consider peptides and growth factors to further fade fine lines or skin lightening
Super Powers If a bride’s healthy eating plan goes awry, she can still make sure her body is getting all the nutrients it needs, with the new super foods the celebs swear by. Camu Camu: A tart Amazonian berry from Peru, high in Vitamin C, antiviral, antioxidant and antiinflammatory, it’s good for skin and gums. Elle Macpherson’s Super Elixir: This green powder supplement contains the alkalizing supergreens, alfalfa, spinach and wheatgrass, plus beetroot, broccoli, pineapple, apple, goji berries and anti-inflammatory maitake mushrooms. Virgin Raw Bee Panacea: Victoria Beckham’s favorite is bee pollen, which is rich in vitamins, antioxidants and energy enzymes, herbs, minerals and probiotics for energy and mental clarity.
agents to remove stubborn brown spots. Four months “At this point, many brides choose to start Latisse, the first and only FDA-approved eyelash growth treatment for fuller lashes. You continue to see improvement within the first four months, so for maximum benefit start it now. Two to Four Weeks “By a month out, you want to have completed all your injectable and laser procedures to allow your skin time to recover. This will enable your dermatologist to deal with any further issues. “At two weeks beforehand, you can still have a light peel, infusion microdermabrasion or light Permea laser for high definition perfection. It really helps prepare your skin for a flawless effect even in close up photographs.” One Week to ONe Day Start a spray tan ahead of time, it allows you to exfoliate a couple of times to achieve a really even finish and adjust the color. Have a manicure and pedicure the day before and incorporate a paraffin wax for extra softness. Schedule a touch up, the morning of the wedding to deal with any chips. The day before, visit a steam room to plump out your skin cells and add luminosity or sleep with a humidifier in your room. “Don’t be afraid to have a facial the day before,” urges Elizabeth Percle, aesthetician at The Spa at Stone Creek. “We have event facials which will smooth and hydrate your skin to enhance your glow and prepare you for the make up application.” Sherril Monson, owner of Skin Science works with clients right up to the big day. “We work with brides as soon as we can to prepare them; starting with a skin and body analysis. As well as lasers and injectables, we have body contouring, collagen boosting and lifting technology.” “Our CoolSculpting is a body contouring treatment,
No waist? No worries! We talked to Trashy Diva Lingerie to find the best shape wear for the perfect bridal silhouette. Consider a body shaper that compliments your dress to create all the right curves. Straps can be thin or removable and flat seams won’t show. The Gossard Retrolution Plunge Slip with a deep neckline, floral lace overlay and removable garters is a favorite. A waist cincher will shape the waist, hips and tummy as well as helping the flow of your dress. Some styles come with removable garters. Most brides want a backless and strapless bra, the Silicone or Air Nu Style have adhesive cups, which stick directly to your skin with a front closure to provide cleavage and lift. Alternatively for strapless gowns invest in a corset, off the rack or custom-made, to shape your torso and enhance the bust. Remember to bring all your foundation garments to all your dress fittings to make sure no straps or lines of your bridal lingerie show. 20 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
which freezes stubborn fat, which is then eliminated naturally by the body,” says Monson. “Our Ultherapy is an FDA approved procedure to lift the neck, chin and brow and many brides also enjoy our body wraps which slim, firm and tone your body. These treatments are best started three or four months in advance.” Don’t overlook the basics either, according to Dr. Susan Mayou, a Consultant Dermatologist at The Cadogan Clinic in London and Co-Founder of the British Cosmetic Dermatology Group. “It’s not a myth, brides need their beauty sleep,” says Mayou. “Collagen is produced during sleep; if you don’t get enough of it, you won’t replace the collagen that has been broken down during the day. Lack of sleep can also increase breakouts and sensitivity. “Eating well will also have a beneficial effect particularly if you include protein in your diet. Protein contains amino acid L-lysine and L-proline which create collagen and aid growth and repair.” Body Buffing Seventy percent of brides in the U.S. want to lose 20 pounds before their wedding and 91 percent want to drop a few pounds, according to a study by Cornell University in New York. With all the pressure of the wedding, how do brides incorporate a new exercise regime into their already ramped up schedule? Starting as soon as possible is key, according to Hudson Ellis, co-owner and trainer at Simply Fit Gyms. “Ideally, if brides to come to us six months before their wedding they will find it easier to achieve their goals,” says Ellis. “However, we can probably get them where they want to be in three, but they will have to work much harder. Even if we only have six weeks, there’s still a lot we can do. With the right kind of training and a clean diet, they can safely lose a pound a week.” If you can’t get to the gym, some trainers like Ron Morel, owner of Trainer To Go come to you. “Brides are so busy that it’s a weight off their minds knowing that we will come to them at a convenient time,” says Morel. “We show up and combine high intensity workouts like sprints with weights to shape muscles while burning fat.” Erin Romney, owner and instructor at Romney Pilates Center offers specific Bride To Be Programs. “Many of our brides opt for our set price, personalized, continuous coaching program,” says Romney. “We start with a body analysis and discussion about their dress and what parts of their body they would like to work on most. It might be arms and back, waist and muffin top or an all over tone up. As well as cardio and strength classes, we will incorporate one of our Pilates modules to ensure perfect posture as she walks down the aisle.” n
No red wine, coffee, tea or berries up to two weeks before your wedding, your teeth will be whiter and less sensitive! BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 21
ha i r
Oval
Round
Hairapy Picking the best hairstyle for your face shape By Mirella Cameran
A
mal Clooney, née Alamuddin, didn’t leave anything to chance. Everything about the BritishLebanese human rights barrister’s wedding to the Hollywood mega star George Clooney was as meticulously planned as one of her court cases; including her hair. Beautiful as she is, she has a narrow, oval face, with a strong nose. So it’s no surprise the new Mrs. Clooney habitually wears her illustrious, long locks down, shaped with layers around her face with a soft side bang. This is her most flattering hairstyle; it softens her features and creates fullness to her willowy silhouette. For her wedding, in her traditional French lace gown by Oscar de la Renta, Amal resisted temptation to try
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something new and stuck to what she knows works best. While no other bride will marry George Clooney, you will hopefully be marrying the man of your dreams and—albeit with a few less cameras to capture your magical moments—you too want to choose the most perfect hairstyle for your face, dress and overall look. “There are a lot of considerations that go into creating the perfect look for each bride,” says Earl Joyner, owner and head stylist at Studio E in Metairie. “The overall tone and style of the wedding, the dress, the jewelry and what kind of headpiece the bride is wearing. These are all-important factors in the decision. A large veil with voluminous hair and you won’t see the bride. Ringlets can cast shadows in
photographs and don’t forget people will see you from behind during the service, so you need a style that looks pretty from every angle.” Accepting all the variables, there are however, some unwritten rules to help guide you:
Prime Products: Dry Oils – they absorb instantly into the hair cuticle and lock in shine giving you lustrous locks without the oiliness Hair Scent – spritz a few drops into your hair at the last minute for a light, sensual scent that won’t compete with your fragrance and will tame flyaways Demi-Glosses – semi permanent, these add shine and color; consider one in rose gold or blonde for a lasting wedding glow. MARIANNE ANGELI RODRIGUEZ illustrations
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ha i r
Heart-Shanped
Square
Oval Faces: Soften your look with a
long, bouncy hair or waves. Long, side bangs or a soft side pony will balance your features. Oval faces benefit from volume and width. Think Sarah Jessica Parker, Rihanna. Caution: Short haircuts can look too severe and too much volume on top will create an even longer profile. Round Faces: A long or shoulder
length layered style will elongate and create structure around your cheeks and chin. An up do with pieces hanging down will have the same effect. A braid or strong side or middle parting will also add contour to your face. Think Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst. Caution: Blunt cuts and single length styles will not offer any flattering movement. Heart-Shaped Faces: Most styles
suit you. Long bangs, with an up do or a soft-layered look around your face will draw attention to your eyes and counter balance your chin. A sleek pulled back bun or pony will
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create sophistication. Think Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Aniston. Caution: Too much volume on the top of your hairline will over accentuate the narrowness of your chin and jawline. Square Faces: Strong, wider features
benefit from long, soft and layered looks that break up the natural angles of your face. A full up or half up do will also create length. A messy low chignon will add softness. Think Jessica Simpson, Demi Moore. Caution: Sharp-edged bobs and straight lines will over emphasize the angles of your
face and too much volume will create width.
It isn’t just your face however, which will determine your most flattering look for your wedding day. “A good hairdresser can create any look you like for one day, but most brides want to look their best selves, so I take into account the color and texture of their hair to create their most naturally beautiful style,” says Alan Tosler, owner and creative director of New York Salon, Tosler Davis. “Their hair will look amazing on the day, the day after and into the honeymoon.” n
Simple steps to wondrous wedding locks Stop dyeing your hair – take a few months off before the big day for high shine and less breakage Shop for organic, plant-based instead of alcohol-based products for less split ends and flyaways Start using a natural bristle brush, the softer more flexible bristles will cause less damage Consider taking a prenatal vitamin which has biotin, a type of vitamin B that increases hair and nail growth Change your diet by giving up carbs and refined sugars and opt for oily fish, eggs and nuts Cut out drinking and smoking and see the difference in your hair
MARIANNE ANGELI RODRIGUEZ illustrations
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m a keu p
Weather-Proof Your Makeup Whether you’re outside in the blistering sun or second lining in the French Quarter make sure your makeup stays flawless all day By Mirella Cameran
W
ith 219 days of sunshine a year and being the No. 1 city for humidity in the country (averaging 76 percent year round), it’s no wonder brides getting married in the Crescent City worry about how to stay perspiration-proof, cry-proof and smudge-free on their wedding day. Despite challenging weather conditions that can easily include a tropical rainstorm or two, brides have no need to fear. The technology in the products available today and the talent pool of makeup artists to apply them, means that brides can rest easy that their makeup will be perfect come rain or shine.
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That is, as long as they take three critical steps. Natalie Cogan of About Face in Mandeville explains the first must-do. “At the initial consultation with my brides, many of them have concerns about the longevity of their makeup and how often they will need to reapply,” says Cogan. “I tell them we start by getting the canvas right. We make sure their skin is in its optimum condition to receive the make up we are going to put on it. That means using the right
skincare regime for their skin type in the months leading up to the wedding. So when it comes to the make up, their skin is well hydrated, moisturized and as healthy as possible.” The second step is taking the time to prime, says Meggan Ory of Make Up by Meggan. “Primer is critical; it stops makeup from sweating off your skin,” says Ory. “I always prime everything: eyes, lips and even eye lashes as well as the face to make sure everything else I put on
Start a healthy skin care regimen as soon as possible. Not only will you glow on your wedding day, it will help protect your skin underneath heavy makeup.
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m a keu p my brides, stays put.” Suzette Stuprich of Eye Do Makeup Artistry takes us through the last move. “The most critical decision is the foundation,” says Stuprich. “I believe the best option by far, is a siliconebased airbrush foundation because it’s waterproof, sweat proof and even cry proof! “It lasts 16 to 24 hours and you can create as much coverage as you like, from light and natural to a heavier more sophisticated look. The silicone formula adheres to the skin, so the look is completely flawless, no matter what
the weather.” Once the base is on, it’s time for the fun stuff: eye shadows and blush, lipsticks and liners. Cogan advises brides to make sure the products they or their artists are using are high quality. The pigment in them is better so they are more durable and vibrant for a longer period of time. The last thing you need to do according to Natasha Paul of Wink Eyelash Bar & Makeup Studio, is use a setting spray. “It acts as a barrier to the skin and extends the life of all the makeup you
are wearing,” says Paul. “With the right products, no matter how hot, rainy or humid it might be, the only thing you should need to touch up are the lips. Paul advises against long-lasting lip stains for brides, because they dry out the lips. “It’s very easy for the bride to become dehydrated anyway,” says Paul. “A cream-based lipstick gives her the moisture and color she needs.” The makeup lesson? Keep your lipstick close and smile, your makeup has the stamina to keep going as long as you do. n
Honeymoon Must-Haves Some of the latest products to keep you feeling special and looking gorgeous for your honeymoon: New Gucci Nail varnish: The luxury label’s first foray into makeup, these varnishes in high gloss come in fabulous colors like Iconic Gold, Voile, Iconic Red and Wild Amarena New Sun Serums: With a few drops, they turn your moisturizer into a self tanner to give you a gorgeous sun-kissed glow; seek them out at Clarins and Guerlain Safe Tans: The safest way to look sun-kissed is with the latest self-tanners; invest in a good body scrub beforehand to create an even sheen Instant Lip Lift: New lip primers come with microbeads which can make your lips look one “size” bigger, combine with a moisturizing lipstick or bright lip balm on top to maintain the fullness for longer Shine Erasers: If you want to glow without looking shiny, forgo the powder (which can look cakey) and try one of the new anti-shine mattifer powders or good old blotting paper Hair Savers: Invest in a microfiber towel to take with you to dry your hair, a cotton one has fibers and loops that get caught in the hair, ripping open cuticles and creating frizz. Keratin Treatment: To tame unruly locks and make your hair more manageable, the new treatments do not contain formaldehyde. A “mini” lasts two to three months. Get frizz-free locks for five to six months with the full treatments. Make sure you have the treatment a month before the big day to avoid hair being too flat. Co-washes or conditioning cleansers: These are the hot new things in New York salons and there are over-the-counter variations available too. Instead of stripping the hair of oils like shampoos, co-washes are gentler and are detergent-free. They lift impurities using essential oils and aloe vera and claim to make hair less frizzy and brittle.
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g i f ts
Par Excellence! The best baubles for your registry
1. Wedding cake server and two fork set with engraved message “Just Married” “I Do” and “Me Too” by Mudpie. Available at Auraluz, 4408 Shores Drive, (504) 888-3313, shopauraluz.com
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By Laura Groesbeck
2. Magnolia Trivet by Arthur Court. Available at Orient Expressed, 3905 Magazine St., orientexpressed.com
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3. Marble cheese board and silver and gold acorn handle cheese knives set. Available at Abode, 2114 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, (504) 266-2135, shopatabode.com 4. Dinnerware by Anna Weatherley, featuring Estee flat dessert, Anna palette sky blue dinner plate and aqua green charger. Available at Friend & Company, 7713 Maple St., (504) 866-5433, friendandcompany.com 5. Silver finish apple and pear salt and pepper shakers by Two’s Company. Available at Judy at the Rink, 2727 Prytania St. (504) 891-7018, judyattherink.com
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gifts
6. Linen and burlap “Just Married” wedding banner by Mudpie. Available at Tie the Knot, 1211 N. Causeway Blvd., (504) 301-9101, tietheknotnola.com 7. Beaded frame by Olivia Riegel available at Hazelnut, 5515 Magazine St., (504) 891-2424, 2735 Hwy. 190, Mandeville, (985) 626-8900, hazelnutneworleans.com
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8. Monogram and floral sachets filled with lavender. Available at Aux belles Choses, 3912 Magazine St., (504) 891-1009, abcneworleans.com 9. Black orchid cake stand with 11-inch round granite top by Michael Aram. Available at Adler’s, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, (504) 523-5292, adlersjewelry.com
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10. An artist catching a live moment painting in real-time makes a true keepsake. Available from Heirloom Live Event Painting, (504) 812-1750 heirloomlive.com
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invitati o n s
Sweet Suite Stationery ideas for every personality and style By Laura Groesbeck
This invitation suite features a soft blush, archival-grade, substantial stock printed in raised silver. The ecru envelope has a scalloped edge, marrying the traditional and modern and highlighting the couple’s Monogram. Available at Gem Printing.
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Letterpress Ombre-style ink with a calligraphy font makes for an elegant invitation. It’s shown here in emerald and passion. Available at Abbey Printing.
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This distinct invitation designed by Fergie Lewis features white screenprinting on a sheet of walnut veneer, rounded corners and a brown craft paper outer envelope with rounded corners. The RSVP card is set on white stock with taupe and slate gray ink. Available at Stationery Studio.
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A monogram and floral design is made of silver metallic ink on this cream-colored stock paper invitation suite with scalloped edges. Available at Exquisite Events.
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The Banner Monogram invitation features two-color letterpress on six-ply pearl white stock. Available at Scriptura.
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ca ke s
Blossoming Confections
Floral cakes add a touch of romance and whimsy to your wedding festivities By Mirella Cameran
Classic almond cake with chocolate buttercream filling covered in white fondant icing with multi-colored spring fondant flowers. Cake by Maurice French Pastries.
Orange cake with almond cream filling and toasted almonds covered in two-tone monochromatic teal buttercream and fondant flowers. Cake by The Kupcake Factory.
Two-tier wedding cake using Haydel’s 55-year-old recipe for made-from-scratch almond pound cake. It is iced and filled with house-made white buttercream icing. Decorated in vibrant spring colored rolled fondant flowers with a finishing touch of luster! Cake by Haydel’s.
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jew e lr y
Shimmer and Shine Bridal bijoux with big day flair By Laura Groesbeck
Platinum and diamond JB Star engagement ring with 1 carat diamonds in the mounting and a 2.05 carat radiant diamond center; 16 carat diamond Riviera necklace in platinum; Tahitian pearl and 1.00 carat diamond drop earrings; Tahitian pearl necklace with diamond accents and 8.98 carat diamond tennis bracelet in 18k white gold. Available at Boudreaux’s Jewelers.
Multi 15.50 carat sapphire and 2.25 carat diamond 18k gold necklace; multi 13.5 carat sapphire with 2.70 carat diamond 18k gold bracelet; 2.67 carat aquamarine and 19.74 carat morganite with18k white and rose gold earrings and double row 1.54 carat diamond band ring. Available at Wellington & Company Fine Jewelry . 18 carat amethyst ring set in 14k yellow gold; 14k white gold emerald cut 3.50 carat peridot and 1.80 carat diamond ring and18k white gold with 12.66 carat weight peridot with 3.61 carat diamond bracelet. Available at Symmetry Jewelers & Designs
Tiffany Enchant scroll earrings in platinum and 1.22 carat diamonds; Tiffany Enchant scroll platinum pendant necklace with .98 carat diamonds; Tiffany Enchant scroll bangle 1.82 carat diamonds set in platinum; Tiffany Enchant fleur platinum with 1.26 carat rose cut diamond ring; Paloma Picasso Sugar Stack ring in 18k white gold with diamonds. Available at Tiffany & Co.
18k yellow gold with 13-carat round diamond floral necklace; 18k yellow gold and diamond semi-hoop earrings; 18k yellow gold with 1.04 carat round diamond bracelet; and 18k yellow and white gold with 0.5 carat diamond ring. Available at Friend & Company. 54 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
Platinum and18k gold Edwardian Plique-a-Jour necklace 5 carat in white diamonds and seed pearls circa-1905; and rose, yellow and white 18k gold with 424 diamonds 14.40 carat openwork bangle bracelet. Available at M. S. Rau Antiques. 18k white gold with 57 diamond, 0.75 carat ring. Available at Wellington & Company Fine Jewelry.
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B RIDES MA I DS
Setting the Tone
Bridesmaids dresses in an array of flattering hues and styles to complement your ladies in waiting
By Lisa Tudor, Photographed by Theresa Cassagne, Hair by Niki Walker Makeup by Gina Crozier, Model Rocio Mora
On the model: Lela Rose Bridesmaid at Linda Lee Bridal; David Tutera “Embellishment Collection “Shelby” floral gold, crystal and pearl drop earrings; At left, Olivier Couture’s After Six jersey gown sampled in Oasis; At right, Bustles & Bows’ Jasmine B2 Madelyn silky chiffon gown with halter tie available in knee and tea lengths.
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On the model: Southern Bridal’s Dessy Collection Jasmine lace chiffon off-the-shoulder gown sampled in ginger; David Tutera “Embellishment Collection” earrings at Bustles & Bows and Haute Bride bracelet at Wedding Belles; At left, Bridal Boutique by Maeme’s Venus strapless silk shantung dress sampled in platinum; At right, Bustles and Bows’ Jasmine sleeveless lace shift with satin bow detail.
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On the model: Wedding Belles’ Monique Lhuillier chiffon halter neckline sampled in cobalt, David Tutera Embellishment Collection earrings at Bustles & Bows, Haute Bride bracelet at Olivier Couture; At left, Pearl’s Place D’Zage chiffon gown with pleated bodice. At right, Linda Lee’s After Six sapphire jersey gown with criss-cross halter neckline.
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On the model: Jim Hjelm Occasions one-shoulder chiffon gown at Pearl’s Place, David Tutera “Sydney” ball bracelet and “Lauren” chiffon floral earrings at Bustles & Bows. At left, Alvina Valenta layered tulle strapless gown with pleated bodice. At right, and Jim Hjelm Occasions chiffon short strapless chiffon dress, both at the Bridal Boutque by Maeme.
On the model: Jenny Yoo “Keika” convertible luxe chiffon dress with chiffon panels sampled in champagne at Wedding Belles, Delores headband by Sara Gabriel at Olivier Couture, David Tutera “Sydney” ball earrings at Bustles & Bows. At left, Sorella Vita cocktail length strapless tulle over lace sampled in cappuccino. At right, Jim Hjelm Occasions chiffon gown sampled in pearl cashmere, both at The Bridal Boutque by Maeme.
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Love in Bloom By Lisa Tudor, Photographed by Theresa Cassagne Models Christopher Rampage and Emelie Wilson Makeup by Meggan D. Ory, Hair by Niki Walker Fine Jewelry by Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers Photographed at The Chicory Venue On her: “Sandrine” mermaid wedding dress with sweetheart neckline, floral lace bodice and ruffled skirt from the 2015 St. Patrick Barcelona Collection at Southern Bridal; Diamond tennis necklace, 20 carat, at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers; On him: Jean Yves three-piece steel gray tuxedo at Ladies & Gents Formal Wear; “Locule” blue sapphire cufflinks and tuxedo studs at Mignon Faget; comfort fit polished wedding band at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers.
“Saboya” beaded ivory crepe gown by Rosa Clara at Linda Lee Bridal & Boutique; 4 carat diamond stud earrings, two diamond tennis bracelets, 17 carat and 6 carat pink pourmaline and diamond ring at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers.
Coco Couture Tiffany blue tulle gown with beaded illusion neckline and modified cap sleeves with demure A-line skirt by New Orleans Designer Courtney Lee Ippolito, exclusively at Linda Lee Bridal & Boutique; 2 carat diamond cluster engagement ring and 7 carat diamond tennis bracelet at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers. * Ippolito, 28, joins her mother and grandmother at family-owned and operated Linda Lee Bridal & Boutique as buyer and visual merchandise manager and this season marks the launch of her own line under the Coco Couture label.
Coco Couture dove gray gown of tulle and English net with hand-beaded crystal detail and dramatic open back, by Courtney Ippolito for Linda Lee Bridal & Boutique; Diamond pear halo necklace, diamond bangle bracelet in white gold, diamond tennis bracelets, and 1.5 carat yellow radiant diamond ring at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers; David Tutera “Embellishment Collection” “Sydney” pearl earrings at Bustles & Bows Bridal Boutique.
Coco Couture blue tulle gown at Linda Lee Bridal & Boutique; Ocean song lavender rose, pink ranunculus, pink dahlia, pittosporum, scabious, delphinum “belladonna,� pink spray roses, viburnum. Available at Kim Starr Wise Floral Events.
Allure Men slate blue three-piece tuxedo by Jean Yves and charcoal gray silk bowtie at John’s Tuxedos Inc.; comfort fit polished wedding band at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers; “Locule” blue sapphire cufflinks and studs at Mignon Faget.
David Tutera’s “Mary Lou” Rum Pink ball gown featuring laser cut lace and hand beaded natural waist shown with “Sydney” pearl and crystal ball necklace from the “Embellishment Collection” at Bustles & Bows Bridal Boutique; 4 carat diamond stud earrings and two diamond tennis bracelets at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers.
Watters Brides “Santina” romantic A-line gown at Pearl’s Place; rose gold 1.25 carat diamond engagement ring and rose gold diamond wedding band at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers; white, lavender and pink roses, green hydrangea and white cushion poms, at Le Grand the Florist.
Private Label velvet dinner jacket, plain front tuxedo shirt, silk bow tie and tuxedo pants sold separately at Tuxedos to Geaux.
Beaded English Net Gown with illusion neckline and cap sleeves by Allure Bridals shown with Mon Cheri veil by Edward Berger at Ladies & Gents Formal Wear; three-stone 2.25 carat diamond oval engagment ring, stud earrings and diamond tennis bracelets, at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers.
David Tutera “Mary Lou” laser cut lace ball gown at Bustles & Bows Bridal Boutique; diamond bangle bracelets in white and yellow gold with diamond tennis bracelet and 1.5 carat yellow radiant diamond engagement ring and pink, yellow and white diamond 1 carat ring at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers. David Austin Patience roses, white spray snowflake roses, mini white cymbidium orchids, yellow Solidago, Italian ruscus, curly willow, at Fabulous Flowers.
Tara Keeley sherbert tulle bridal ball gown with sweetheart neckline, Alencon lace offthe-shoulder overlay with three-quarter sleeves, horsehair hem detail and chapel-length train at Olivier Couture Bridal Boutique; 3.5 carat chandelier diamond earrings, 1 7/8 carat princess cut halo engagement ring and white gold diamond bangle bracelet, at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers.
1.5 carat yellow radiant ring; pink, yellow and white diamond ring; 4 carat diamond stud earrings, diamond bangle bracelets in yellow and white gold; 10 carat diamond tennis bracelet, all at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers; David Tutera’s “Sydney” faux pearl and crystal necklace from the “Embellishments Collection” at Bustles & Bows Bridal Boutique.
Juliet garden roses, secret garden blush roses, pink and green ranunculus, blueberry viburnum, dusty miller, seeded eucalyptus, white dahlias, pink wax flower, muscari, at Poppy & Mint
Watters “Santina” romantic A-line gown with illusion neckline and plunging back features hand-placed Carina lace, covered buttons and double-faced satin ribbon at waist with sweep train at Pearl’s Place; Bird Cage headpiece at the Bridal Boutique by Maeme; diamond stud earrings at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers.
“Lana” gown in Mikado silk with sweetheart neckline, intricate beading and flare skirt by Cristiano Lucci shown with cathedral-length raw edge veil at the Bridal Boutique by Maeme; 2.5 carat three-stone oval diamond engagement ring, diamond stud earrings and diamond tennis bracelets at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers.
Allure tan tuxedo jacket with classic shirt, pants, rep stripe silk tie and Pocket Square at Rome’s Tuxedos.
White strapless gown at Southern Bridal; 2 carat diamond cluster engagement ring at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers. Skyline roses, cream mini calla, curly pine, Queen Anne’s lace, green mini hydrangea, blue delphinium, dusty miller, cascading green millet, at Bee’s Wedding and Event Floral Designs.
Coco Couture gown at Linda Lee Bridal; diamond bangle bracelets, 10 carat diamond tennis bracelet, diamond pear halo necklace and pear halo engagement ring at Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers.
Getting Hitched Without A Hitch Wedding planners, counselors and brides offer their advice By Sarah Ravits / Illustrations by Shaina Anderson
Pre-wedding couple’s therapy can help ease stress and foster communication on the Big Day and in years to come.
I
f you’re an idealist, you might be of the philosophy that “all you need is love.” And while love and romance are great foundations for a marriage—and the very worthy cause for a ceremony and celebration with your loved ones—the reality is that planning a wedding involves plenty of organization, time management, attention to detail and problem-solving for issues great and small. So, no matter how optimistic or idealistic you consider yourself, there will be stressors along the way, and it’s time to figure out how to navigate the ups and downs of wedding planning. How do you turn that Pinterest board into a reality? Hiring a professional wedding planner is the best bet, and these professionals can help out at any level of involvement—whether you just need some day-of coordinating, or if you want them to take charge of the entire event. Molly Reid, a journalist in New Orleans, is a natural leader who is laid-back and loves to plan parties for her friends, so she thought that planning her wedding would be seamless. She laughs when she reflects on the process, admitting that she learned a lot about herself and planning during this time. She says organizing her wedding was like “taking on a second job. If you won’t enjoy that, then swallow the pill and get a planner. A good [wedding planner] will save you boatloads of time and stress. I thought it was an extravagance, but I should have realized that planning a wedding with just my mother, from scratch, was a recipe for a world of irritation. I enjoy planning parties, but a wedding is a whole other thing— there are 6,000 times as many details to consider!” When hiring a planner, it’s important
to interview several candidates. Shop around and seek recommendations from friends who have tied the knot— when all is said and done, you could tally up weeks of time spent with this person, so you want to make sure that you mesh well in terms of personality. While you’re not marrying this person, you are entrusting them to plan one of the biggest and most important days of your life. Nancy Staggs, a wedding and party planner based in New Orleans agrees that getting along with her clients is essential, although she is skilled at dealing with a stressed-out bride. “Sticking to a schedule is important,” she says. “Even though it’s the bride’s day, you have to stay on schedule to ensure that everything gets planned without rushing.” Sometimes they only want help with flowers or the decorations; sometimes they want the entire event planned out. Staggs is flexible and makes sure to keep a checklist and remain clear about what they are going to get. She also encourages brides-to-be to be aware of their budgets: “There can be lots of hidden costs,” she says. “Hemming and bustling a dress can cost as much as $300.” She notes that there also can be an up-charge for larger invitations. Planning the wedding involves managing the guest list; getting save-the-dates and invitations made; figuring out who will be part of the ceremony; figuring out transportation; the venue; finding the right dress; entertainment, food and reception area and because of the fact that in New Orleans, the party doesn’t stop— the post-reception area where the younger generation goes after the older relatives have retired for the night.
When you feel swamped by planning, spend time with friends who aren’t involved in the wedding, so it won’t be the only topic of conversation.
Amid the festivities, another thing to remember: It’s not just a day, but a lifetime you are planning for, so many couples choose during this time period to attend pre-wedding counseling or, as Rev. Dr. Jerry Schumm calls it, a pre-wedding “conversation.” (He prefers not to use the phrase counseling due to stigmas attached to the word.) Schumm, who recently relocated to Mississippi after living in Florida, travels all over the Gulf South to conduct wedding ceremonies. He has officiated more than 2,000 weddings in his 40-year career and he believes that taking the time to discuss your goals as a couple is highly beneficial. “I came up with a [questionnaire] form,” he says. “And it ended up being a piece I’ve used almost 2,300 times. If I am talking to a young couple, I ask them what they want, what they’re looking for in a marriage.” For some couples, he says, parental approval is important. For others, it’s finances. He also encourages them to discuss whether or not they want to have children. Adrienne Brink, a wedding counselor in Slidell, says, “It’s becoming more popular for couples to do some sort of relationship assessment or skill-building program before they get married.” She notes that many couples are waiting until their late 20s or 30s to get married, in an effort to make mature decisions. “They are more thoughtful about what it takes to have a lasting commitment,” she continues. “While weddings can symbolize an exciting new beginning, they also bring many stressors.
It’s common to feel a loss of independence or uneasiness about the permanence of a new relationship…Add to that the task of bringing to life a dream wedding and anyone can understand why a person would feel increased stress during their engagement. The best way to work through this is to process what is going on in a supportive atmosphere. If you feel understood, affirmed and validated, you can find the strength from within to cope with these stressors.” Amy Johnston, who got married in 2010, began dating her now-husband when they were sophomores in college. Over the years, they knew they were meant to be together, but as two ambitious 20-somethings fresh out of a competitive law school, they wanted to address potential sticky situations before they tied the knot. “Looking back, I’m really glad we carved out time in the pre-wedding chaos to do pre-marital counseling,” says Johnston. “It gave us an invaluable opportunity to really focus and reflect on what was important to us and our future together—values, priorities, finances and building a family. I also think it probably helped resolve potential disagreements before we started. And we had a place from which to continue a conversation about important (and even not so important) things in our lives.” Individual therapy might also help during times of great stress. Says Molly Reid, “I actually went to a therapist to talk about my feelings on the subject because I didn’t want to bore my friends. That was really helpful.” n
Simple, quick ways to De-stress during the planning process: • Treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure and, or massage • Go see a movie with your friends who aren’t involved in the wedding • Spend a night with your fiancé on the couch and make a rule that you will NOT talk about the big day • Attend a yoga or meditation class, or download an app, such as Mindfulness or Buddhify, on your smartphone that will guide you through relaxation techniques • Keep a journal for venting • Take a hot bath with lavender and Epsom salts
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“It’s common to feel a loss of independence or uneasiness about the permanence of a new relationship,” says wedding counselor Adrienne Brink.
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Ac co m Mo dat i o n s
Guest Stars A peek inside three hotels that will keep your loved ones comfortable, pampered and well-rested for your wedding celebration By Jillian Kramer
“Since 1886, the Hotel Monteleone has proudly stood as one of the first landmarks in the famous French Quarter,” says Kent Wasmuth, director of marketing and sales for Hotel Monteleone. But the historic building and its 600 suites—including literary author rooms, named for writers such as Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams—underwent a top-to-bottom renovation in 2011, blending its French provincial furnishings with in-suite amenities that bring it into the 21st century, such as Keurig coffee makers and iPod docking stations. Its Carousel Bar & Lounge, named by Vogue Living as one of the top 20 bars in the world, also got a facelift: Sit along the revolving bar top, gleaming with a fresh pewter surface, for uncompromised views of Royal Street. Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., (504) 523-3341, hotelmonteleone.com BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 93
From outside of the 23-story Windsor Court Hotel, take in rose-colored granite bejeweled with bronze-tinted, tempered glass and panoramic views of the Mississippi River from a hexagonal rooftop deck—but inside, allow hues of sage-green, ocean-blue and saddle-tan to serve as the peaceful backdrop to European antiques, 17th and 18th century period reproductions and an $8 million art collection with an emphasis on British works by painters Reynolds, Gainsborough and Huysman. Each suite is complete with Frette linens, Molton Brown bath products and jack-packs, which allow you to connect your tech gear to a flat-screen, high-definition television. “We’re an urban oasis within the city,” says Megan Uram, Windsor Court Hotel’s director of sales and marketing. Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St., (504) 523-6000, windsorcourthotel.com. 94 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
Despite its central French Quarter location inside the historic 1908 Beaux Arts Maison Blanche building, guests of the Ritz-Carlton may find it difficult to leave their rooms. Each is stocked with 400-thread-count cotton sheets and goose down pillows, and bathrooms decked in Italian marble. Suites feature up to 700-square-feet spread across three rooms, offering marble entrances, five-fixture bathtubs, double sinks and not one, but two, 50-inch flat-screen TVs. Downstairs, a world-class spa offers more than 100 treatments, some named for and inspired from the city, including the Marie Laveau Voodoo Love Bath, in 22 separate rooms. The Ritz-Carlton, 921 Canal St., (504) 524-1331, ritzcarlton.com/neworleans. BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 95
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p hot o gr a p HY
Picture Perfect Ensuring that your big day memories are exactly what you want By Jillian Kramer
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edding photography is a tricky thing: You want a cinematic visionary with the reflexes to capture a stolen kiss, one who is affable and can draw out the sincerest of smiles, someone on the cutting edge of technology. But lean too far over the line of trendy and you could end up with photos more heartbreaking than heartfelt. “While we understand the desire to keep up with the latest trends and spend hours on Pinterest,” says Doug Keese of Art de Vie, “we think the most important thing when planning your wedding is to stay true to who you are as a couple and plan a wedding that reflects your personalities. That’s something Pinterest is incapable of doing, because Pinterest doesn’t know you.”
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Here, four top area photographers weigh in on how to make the perfect match. Settle on a Style: Long before you lift a phone to call a photographer, it’s smart to decide what kind of photography style will best capture your wedding day. Might a documentary or journalistic style—where you’ll take home candid photos of people, the action and your details—suit your needs, or do you crave artistic takes with vintage flair, in which a photographer might enhance colors and texturize images during post-production? “A photojournalistic style will tell a story, and is a little less intrusive during the ceremony and reception,” explains Caitlin Barry of Caitlin B. Photography. “Portraits will be more intimate and less staged.” A fine art photographer with experience in the darkroom could produce moodier images, while a traditional photographer will take an editorial approach—the kind displayed most often on popular wedding blogs. “If a bride is caught between choosing between a fine art photographer and a traditional photographer,” Barry says, “I would try to find one that is a hybrid of the two.” Find the Right Photographer: “Most brides don’t realize they’re going to spend more time on their wedding day with their photographer than their future spouse,” says Keese. “So it’s important that they like their photographer and their demeanor just as much as they like their work.” Insist on an in-person meeting with two or three potential photographers, so you can see if your personalities mesh, even before you jump into business mode. “Sometimes it’s like speed dating,” says Sandra O’Claire of Eau Claire Photographics. “I can tell if we’re going to click in the first 10 minutes of our meeting.” Use a Critical Eye: Ask to see an entire album of work, which should be what the photographer turned over to his or her client post-production. “It’s easy for us to pick the fancy work we like for our blogs and websites,” says O’Claire. “Take a look at Caitlin Barry photographs
the more trendy photographers’ work, you may be surprised to find that they spend most of the day capturing more traditional shots than what they show publicly.” Another important thing to consider is time: Will the photographer be there to
capture your day from start to finish, or will they cap your coverage after six hours? Bring a timeline of your event so you can see if what they offer will cover what you need. A good photographer should also offer a variety of production packages to meet your needs—some could include albums and prints, while others may offer to give you digital files with the rights to reprint. If you find yourself attracted to the latter option, be sure to ask whether the digital images will be edited and retouched before you take the reins. “Also ask about important things like how long after the wedding everything will be ready for you,” suggests O’Claire. “It will save you that dreaded I’m-waiting-for-my-photos-
after-the-wedding period.” Consider Your Budget: Professional photography packages in the New Orleans area can run anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000. “If the photographer is way out of their budget, it’s perfectly OK to end the meeting before it starts,” says Keese. “As a bride, you have very little time to plan a lot of things, so don’t waste your own time or the photographer’s time.” If you’ve found your match, but you’re looking for places to save, there are still things you can do. “If your budget does not allow for a big fancy album, remember that can be purchased later down the line,” says Roddy Orgeron of Roddy Orgeron Photography. Or ask the photographer if he or she would be willing to build a custom package to meet your needs and budget. Ask For What You Want: “Most photographers cringe when they get that email with the subject line, ‘shot list,’” Keese says. “Experienced photogra-
phers know what needs to be captured on a wedding day and will initiate that conversation on their own.” And “never ask a photographer to do a style that they do not typically do,” says O’Claire. “Sometimes a client will surprise us with photos from Pinterest that isn’t our comfort zone at all. It leaves us bewildered and wondering why you hired us for work we do not show on our website.” But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t educate your photographer on the things that are important to you. For example, if your cake topper is a family heirloom, it’s perfectly OK to let your photographer know you’d like more than one shot of that piece. “Send us photos from our blog or website that you like,” suggests O’Claire. “You can mix in a few others, too, but it’s best to let us know why you hired us. Honestly, when a client tells me, ‘you know best — just do what you are great at,’ it makes me want to work extra hard for them.” n BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 99
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l oc at ion s The Chicory
A Sense of Place 10 wedding venues with beauty, style and Big Easy flair By Kristen Himmelberg
Bevolo Museum The minute you step on site at the Bevolo Museum you are transported to a different time. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the nearly 200-year-old building exudes antique character, with a modern warehouse chic look. An off-shoot of the family-run, handcrafted gas and electric lighting company, the museum space opened two years ago as a wedding venue, Diana Stokes, Bevolo event coordinator says. The space was originally intended to be a a showcase for a large collection of the company’s handcrafted copper gas lights, which adorn the entire exposed brick wall 102 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
from the entrance on Royal Street to the courtyard facing Exchange Alley. A few months after the opening, however, people started asking to rent it out. “I think they are drawn to the romantic and intimate ambiance of the space,” Stokes says. Other than being a beautifully historic and romantic backdrop, the space also provides complete flexibility, which is attractive to many brides. “We just provide the space and you bring in everything else, so you have the ability to do whatever you want and create your own vision,” Stokes says, “You really don’t need to do much to the space because the decor is already there.” At 1,500 square feet, the intimate space includes the main showroom in the front and a workshop in the back, with a small courtyard between, allowing for 100 guests for a cocktail reception and 50 guests for a seated dinner. An added bonus is the upstairs conference room, bathroom and balcony, which are available to brides and bridal parties. “You can use the upstairs to get ready, it’s like a built-in bridal suite, and you can take pictures out on the balcony before and during,” Stokes says. The space appeals to a particular type of bride. “I think it attracts someone who sees the beauty of the rawness, with the beautiful old antique gas lanterns, exposed brick walls and cement floors,” Stokes says. STUDIO TRAN photo
Southern Oaks Plantation
Southern Oaks Plantation Located on the New Orleans lakefront on three acres, with a traditional plantation home as the centerpiece, Southern Oaks Plantation lives up to its description as a “magical” wedding reception destination. With a sprawling, lush lawn and spectacular fountain in the center and stone path leading to the front steps of a Southern plantation, it’s the perfect backdrop for any fairytale wedding, says owner Bobby Asaro. “What we have done is we have taken a page out of Disney,” Asaro says. “It’s just beautiful all year round because we want people to walk up and see it and say, ‘Now there is something special,’ or pull in the driveway and say, ‘Something special is going to happen at this place,’” Asaro says. Over the last 28 years, along with his wife Sue, Asaro has groomed Southern Oaks into a breathtaking compound with a variety of options. “It’s the complete package. We include food, drink, DJ, music system— which is built into the facility—and we STUDIO TRAN photo
specialize in these spectacular romantic outdoor events,” Asaro says. “The bride can come up in a double-team horse carriage or make her entrance in a 1956 Rolls Royce, then have her ceremony out on the lawn and end the ceremony with a beautiful fireworks display.” Yes, that means that Southern Oaks is not only the only venue that offers a personal fireworks show, but it also has two horses on site for events, Asaro says. They don’t just specialize in ‘spectacular outdoor events,’ because what you will find when you open the front door is even more impressive. Over the past few years, Southern Oaks has undergone an extensive remodel. “The outside of the plantation has a traditional look, but when you go inside it catches people off guard because we have a fresh new updated look, with brand new drapery and custom lighting, which can be splashed on the walls throughout the building,” Asaro says. “We have created a more trendy look on the inside.” Beyond the setting, Southern Oaks also provides what Asaro likes to call
‘super service’ for every client. “One of the most unique aspects is our service because everyone, from the moment they call to the moment they step foot on the grounds, is getting treated like royalty,” Asaro says. And every client and their guests is also getting ‘a taste of New Orleans’ with over 80 different Cajun-creole inspired menu items made on-site. “People are coming to us from all over the United States and all over the world, and they come to us because of the look of the facility, but also because of the food prep that goes along with it here in the South,” Asaro says. Hyatt French Quarter Housed in a renovated circa-1800s building—originally the old DH Holmes department store—the Hyatt French Quarter is a classic New Orleans building with a modern facelift. The building still has some small touches of the past, such as exposed beams in the foyer, Vera Faucheux, event sales manager says. “This past weekend there was a BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 103
National WWII Museum
Beyond the trendy, restored, oldmeets-new space, the Hyatt also provides another important factor: convenience. “We offer an all-inclusive package which is great for some brides, especially destination weddings, because they don’t have to get anything except for the flowers,” Faucheux says. The package includes in house catering, room or rooms of choice, tables, specialty chairs, the option of draping, specialty linens and uplighting, which allows brides to choose a color to shine up on the walls that gives it a special hue.
wedding and the bride actually brought in her own chandeliers and hung them from the beams,” Faucheux says. Another addition to the space is its outdoor garden courtyard, which accommodates 200 people and often is used for ceremonies. It allows brides to have the best of both worlds, being in the heart of
the French Quarter, but still outdoors. One of the top benefits of the Hyatt is its central location. “The large foyer area leads out on to Canal Street directly, so it is great for having a second line band because you can go right out on to Canal to start,” Faucheux says.
Take time to thank those who made your special ceremony possible: your parents, grandparents, friends and anyone who has been a source of support for you and your spouse. You can make a speech, or better, take some time with each of them at the reception. 104 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
Fulton Alley If you’re looking for a venue that has modern decor, but a fun, laid back New Orleans atmosphere to celebrate your big day, then Fulton Alley is perfect for you. The bowling alley, restaurant and bar mixture offers a fun-filled alternative to more traditional locations. “[Many] nontraditional brides want a fun space that has built in entertainment and we offer that, plus the aesthetics of the space are great,” says Libby Kemp, events coordinator at Fulton Alley. “There is really nice lighting and the walls are deep reds and golds. It is something that appeals to brides, because you don’t really have to do much to dress up the space, everything is already done for you.” The venue is just under a year old and isn’t your average bowling alley. “Obviously the bowling is what makes us unique, that built in entertainment aspect is great,” Kemp says, “Plus we can make room to accommodate a band and have a huge dance floor right in front of the lanes, where the couches normally go.” The space also features a craft cocktail bar run by the people from Cure, as well as an upscale ARTE DE VIE photo
Maison Lafitte
Choosing seasonal, local flowers will be significantly less expensive than purchasing imported flowers, so talk with your florist to see what will be available when you schedule your wedding. Also, after the reception, you can donate your flowers to a hospital or a place that needs cheer.
restaurant with a head chef formerly of Tivoli & Lee and the Delachaise. “All of our food is made in-house and our chef does a good job of ordering from all local vendors, plus we specialize in craft cocktails,” Kemp says. “We have a craft cocktail program, and we can create a signature drink for brides that can be passed [around] as guests arrive.” This memorable space is something your guest will talk about for years. Il Mercato A newcomer to the wedding venue scene in New Orleans, Il Mercato was transformed from an 1930s open-air market. Joel Catering and Special Events, which has catered events in New Orleans for more than 20 years, will run the space. “Working in this field we have learned a lot of about what is important in a venue and we put a lot of thought into every decision to make the space both functional but also fun and beautiful for everyone involved, bride, groom, family, guests and caterers,” says Sarah Hall, president of Joel Catering and Special Events. Located off Magazine Street in the Lower Garden District, Il Mercato is close to the downtown area, but in a quieter neighborhood, easily accessible by car. It can accommodate up to 450 people and offers both indoor and Greer G. PhotographY
outdoor space. The large courtyard features antique bricks and an outdoor fireplace. A covered archway gives way to the main hall, which is approximately 3,000 square feet, adorned with Italian chandeliers and herringbone patterns on the walls. There also are two smaller rooms off to the side for additional seating and space. The library is the larger of the two and has a built-in bar and seating. In the annex, a smaller, more narrow room perfect for a lounge area, the centerpiece is a full length, mirrored wall. “The main room is gorgeous but neutral, so it could work with warm or cool tones and any type of floral arrangements,” Hall says. “We want our brides to be able to put their stamp on the room, to make their vision come to life.” For added convenience, there is a lounge and closet outside the women’s bathroom. “It was designed so that if brides want to change shoes or dresses or take off their veil they have easy access to it all night,” Hall says. An enclosed courtyard is the perfect setting for outdoor ceremonies or for a cocktail hour, rain or shine. “The outdoor fireplace is right in the middle of the courtyard and will be a gorgeous backdrop for ceremonies with planters and lounge furniture,” Hall says. Couples can enjoy the convenience of
catering, bar service, plus tables, chairs and linens. Most of all Hall is excited to be working in the new space because of the design. Hall says, “We designed everything to make it the best of all the spaces we have worked in, in the past, plus making it personal, as well.” Messina’s at the Terminal With Art Deco detailing throughout, Messina’s at the Terminal—housed in the newly-restored Lakefront Airport Terminal—exudes 30’s charm. The Lakefront Airport once called “The Air Hub of the Americas” was a functioning building up until Hurricane Katrina. It was restored back to its original style and reopened in 2013, when Messina’s at the Terminal signed a lease to rent it as an event space. “Everything was restored, the stone floors and all the Art Deco details,” says Kristin Casey, director of sales for Messina’s at the Terminal. “The architect even matched the sconces in the walnut room and the metal work in the atrium to the original.” Messina’s at the Terminal also has a special outdoor observation viewing deck above the Walnut Room. “There’s a huge bar and all-glass windows ,and it overlooks the runway, so you can see the flights coming in at night,” Casey says, “Sunset is the most BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 105
Messina’s at the Terminal
popular time, but it is a really magnificent view to the see the planes coming in from up there.”
the event,” Adams says, “We are the go-to from when you book the party all the way until the actual event.”
Maison Lafitte A building steeped in history, the Maison Lafitte is a 120-year-old historic, restored plantation home that provides an elegant and intimate event space. Tucked away on the Northshore only a few blocks off of the lakefront, Maison Lafitte is the sister venue to The Lake House restaurant. It opened in 2013. “At Maison Lafitte, we are here to create an experience for you from the beginning of your engagement to all the way to when you have a baby, we offer services that are all encompassing and can accommodate everything you would want,” says Sara Adams, events coordinator. One of the features of the home is the outdoor space, which includes the grounds, a front lawn, gazebo, grand front porch, enlarged back patio space and a rooftop garden. Additional conveniences are on-site catering and bar services in the newly renovated kitchens, the easily accessible and free parking, as well as the church, Our Lady of the Lake, which is across the street. “As part of the services we do all the details, we meet with you several times, create a floor plan, and then we really work with you all the way up until the day of
Broussard’s Located in the heart of the French Quarter, Broussard’s has been a New Orleans staple since the 1920s, but recently the elegant Paris-inspired imperial decor was updated to create a beautifully restored space, without sacrificing its historic flare. The renovations served to marry European and Creole styles, while also bringing the building into the 21st century. “Last year we underwent a million dollar renovation,” says Trent Verges, director of marketing for Creole Cuisine Restaurant Group, which oversees Broussard’s. The building, originally a family mansion, was converted into a fine dining restaurant by Joseph Broussard in the 1920s and was created to emulate the elegance of Paris, while melding local creole cuisine and classic French dishes to bring a New Orleans experience to every guest. For weddings, you have the option of renting out the entire restaurant. The dining rooms feature exquisite crystal chandeliers, and the courtyard, with its rustic paving stones and lush landscaping, gives guests a warm, intimate outdoor space to enjoy. “What makes Broussard’s special is our beautiful French Quarter Courtyard in the
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middle of our beautiful interior dining rooms and bar,” Verges says. The restaurant offers in-house catering and the option to create a memorable menu. “Something that is unique to Broussard’s is that we offer complimentary tastings for each couple, so that we can customize to his and her preferences,” Verges says. “We have complimentary candle décor and an on-site bridal attendant coordinator.” National WWII Museum New Orleans has a wide variety of well-preserved historic buildings, but the National World War II museum is a unique combination of both old and new. It is a spectacular modern facility with rich historic significance behind it and a lot of options for couples to customize their day to focus on what they are most interested in. The museum has three main buildings that can be used for weddings and each has a different character, which makes the space great for any couple, from someone looking for a retro feel, to a history buff, to someone looking for a grand modern space. The original building, the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion, houses the museum’s main exhibits, the Solomon Victory Theatre Pavilion houses the ‘40s inspired theatre, the Stage Door Canteen and the on-site restaurant, The American Sector, and the newest and largest building is the U.S. Freedom Pavilion. The Louisiana Memorial Pavilion offers not only a huge space that George Kuchler photo
Nominate a trusted bridesmaid to pull you out of conversations with overly talkative guests, and another to make sure you eat enough throughout the day. You’ll be grateful for them.
can be designed to your exact wishes, but also gives you full access to the entire building and all of the exhibits, which provides guests with an added entertainment factor. “It is totally customizable and we are extremely accommodating,” says Tamrah Swartzfager, event sales manager. “If they have a dream in mind we will do our best to help.” The most intimate space of all three, the Solomon Victory Theatre Pavilion, gives a vintage retro feeling and also provides a different type of in-house entertainment, two ‘40s style bands, the Victory Belles and The Victory Big Band, which can be used in all three buildings, but are housed in the Solomon Victory Theatre. “This is very popular with the brides who aren’t as interested in the history, but are very excited about the retro ‘40s feel and the intimate setting,” Swartzfager says. Just under two years old, The U.S. Freedom Pavilion is the largest and grandest of all three spaces. The three-story open air building is tremendous when you first walk in and when you look up you are greeted with intricate metal cat walks crossing over your head and antique airplanes hanging from the ceiling. The space was designed especially with large events in mind and has two built-in bars, a separate kitchen, a hydraulic stage that ascends from the floor and three enormous screens that can be
Bevolo Museum
programmed to anything. “It can fit up to 800 people reception style and what’s nice is it is one big open space, so you don’t have people in all different rooms,” Swartzfager says, “And the airplanes are actually beautiful at night, a real wow factor.” Along with the variety of spaces available, the museum offers in-house catering from The American Sector, which will customize the menu. Looking towards the future, they are planning on building a chapel into the newest building they are working on so the museum can truly be a one stop shop for couples. The Chicory For couples who love the industrial chic charm of New Orleans’ old warehouse buildings, the Chicory, a building which was once a coffee warehouse built in the mid-1800s, is an ideal location. Since 1852, the space has been transformed into a refined event space with an elegant, rustic Crescent City look. “We have updated and modernized the building without losing any of its original charm and uniqueness,” says Brent Bogan, wedding sales manager. Centrally located in the historic warehouse district, the Chicory’s newest addition is a building located next door called the Gallery. “The Gallery is an entirely new space
with three floors—the first floor is a reception space, second floor is a ceremony space and the rooftop space overlooks the Warehouse District,” Bogen says. Additional details include an onsite bridal suite, a personal bridal attendant, a private space for couples to eat their first meal as newlyweds, an all inclusive package deal and a convenient central location within walking distance from many major hotels, as well as an onsite ceremony space (both indoor and rooftop). “It is a completely unique space with stained concrete floors, exposed brick and beamed ceilings,” Bogen says. The new space has the industrial warehouse chic feeling that the original building has, but it is an open room with 10 wooden pillars running down the middle of the space, as well as being able to open up to Fulton Street to create a courtyard type area, which sets it apart from the old building. “We create an outdoor courtyard outside of the main entrance doors on Fulton Street with planters, seating tables and highboys,” Bogen says. “It is nice having a space that can contain everything from a dance floor, seating tables, food stations, all in one big open space. I love that the Gallery is situated right in the thick of things on the bustling Fulton Street. You really feel the energy of a reception located in the heart of a city like New Orleans.” n BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 107
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f ood
Tivoli & Lee
Local Flavor Farm-to-table fare gives guests true taste of New Orleans By Mirella Cameran
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t’s a cause for celebration that wedding food has undergone a transformation in recent years. Gone are the days when you expect an airline style choice of a “chicken or beef” entrée at the reception dinner. Given that most brides spend 50 percent of their entire wedding budget on the food for guests, it seems only fair to expect more from caterers. More is indeed on offer, particularly in the culinary obsessed city of New Orleans. Guests at weddings in Louisiana relish the chance to enjoy the drinks and dishes served to them during the proceedings. Locals look forward to indulging in beloved favorites; out-of-towners are excited at the prospect of experiencing the distinctive cuisine that weaves
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a gastronomic tale of the history and culture of the area. This has never been more so the case, but truth be told farm-to-table isn’t new. Alice Waters started this food revolution in the 1970s at Chez Panisse in San Francisco, when she started cooking with a focus on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. In recent years however, it has become the biggest trend in American cuisine. Chefs are growing vegetables and micro greens on the tops of hotels in New York (The Soho Grand and The Waldorf Astoria, for example) and it has become the hottest buzzword in restaurants from coast-to-coast. Louisiana has had its own ambassadors in the voices of celebrity
chefs, such as chefs John Besh and Susan Spicer. In fact, the Southern Food and Beverage Institute holds the Farm To Table International Symposium in the city every year. It follows that this focus was bound to influence wedding catering. More and more couples are opting for menus featuring headline local dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. “Our restaurant, Tivoli & Lee provides a modern take on Southern Cuisine by focusing on the freshest, most sustainable ingredients,” says Grace Duplantier of the Hotel Modern. “Bridal couples really enjoy sharing this farm-totable experience with their guests, which at the same time supports local farmers. “Couples are also opting for the trend
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Nolavore Prepared Foods & Catering Company
of assorted small plates which enables everyone to enjoy a broader variety of delicious food.” Katya Mata, director of social events at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans says they are seeing more and more brides opt for farm-to-table wedding menus or the hotel’s signature “Personal Preference” options, which offers guests the option to choose their own main course at the event. “With this personalized option, attendees can enjoy a fine dining experience by ordering their own choice of entrée, along with a pre-selected salad, appetizers and dessert,” says Mata. “This option is also perfect for guests that may have food allergies or dietary restrictions.” At the Brennan Family of Restaurants, 90 percent of ingredients are sourced within 100 miles of the restaurant. “We’ve noticed that brides are focusing on quality instead of quantity and are opting for healthier options too,” says Morgan Trulen, the company’s private party planner. In a place home to oyster, tomato and strawberry festivals, to name a few, and where there is such an emphasis on the regionality of its cuisine, it makes sense that local chefs are enjoying the chance to maximize the local flavor of their wedding menus.
“We are so fortunate in Louisiana to have a year round growing season with many new items becoming available all the time,” says Ann Lloyd of Nolavore Prepared Foods & Catering Company. “Of course, lots of couples want traditional menus especially if they have out of town guests.” Lloyd says they use their own produce to adopt dishes, using for example Tuna Poke in Cucumber as an appetizer. “It’s a Hawaiian dish but made with all locally available items,” says Lloyd, who creates the Green Papaya Salad from items from her own garden. “Our Corn Fried Shrimp (from Louisiana Pride Gristmill) is composed with local Thai basil and citrus. The range of ingredients in our proximity from oysters, tomatoes, strawberries and fresh peppers and other seafood, gives chefs like myself, limitless opportunities for cooking and particularly special occasion catering, like weddings. “There are so many new farms popping up too with exotic items such as yard long beans and micro greens that is it a very exciting time to be a chef in this city.” The farm-to-table trend isn’t stopping at the plate. “Couples are incorporating local flavors in their drink offerings too with local beers and spirits,” says Robert
LeBlanc, owner of Sylvain Restaurant and Meauxbar. “These products are all high quality and clearly identifiable as local.” LeBlanc points to Louisiana-based beers, including NOLA Brewing and Bayou Teche which he says have offerings diverse enough to appeal to any palate, as well as spirits such as Old New Orleans rum and Oryza vodka. Which are produced here in New Orleans and nearby Thibodaux, respectively, and can be used to create specialty cocktails just for your occasion. “This is an easy and fun way to guarantee that your guests, especially those coming in from out of town, get an experience that is uniquely New Orleans and will make your wedding even more memorable and distinctive,” says LeBlanc. Duplantier says with so many choices, it’s easy and fun to get experimental at the reception. “Couples are amazed with our delicious hand crafted cocktails,” Duplantier says. “The cobbler is particularly popular, it’s a low-proof cocktail served with crushed ice and the freshest fruit in a frozen vintage silver cup.” With local food and drink, you and your guests will get to savor the true flavor of New Orleans. Cheers to the happy couple, indeed. n Elise Smith photo
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m u s ic
Let’s Dance
Set the mood for your wedding festivities with tips from the experts By Kelly Massicot
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s the great philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche once said, “Without music life would be a mistake.” The same could be said for a wedding. Music, especially in New Orleans, is the heart and soul of any event. To paraphrase another great philosopher, Madonna, “music brings the people together” as a key part of a wedding. Thanks in part to
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the growing popularity of non-traditional weddings, there are endless possibilities to insert just the right music and entertainment into your wedding day. Individuality. David Storm of Omega Sound & Entertainment knows from his experiences that, “each bride and each wedding are very different.” This gives brides the opportunity to break from
the mold of tradition and bring in her individual style. Growing in popularity is including a violin into a ceremony or reception. The violin has, of course, been around for centuries and recently experienced a drastic makeover. Bands such as local duo Tonya & Dorise are turning the electric violin into the must have for any ardent studio PHOTOs
wedding. Brooke Casey with Southern Charm Weddings says she has been asked by many couples to find nontraditional bands that play everything from Louis Armstrong to Michael Jackson and that is exactly what you get with an electric violin. Adding a smooth jazz feel with an amp and an orchestra instrument to the sounds of Coldplay and Michael Buble brings endless possibilities to the couple and turns an ordinary ceremony up a notch. DJ vs. Live Band. The age-old question brought up during planning is whether to hire a band or a DJ. Each brings distinctive components to any event; it’s all about finding the right elements to match with your wedding. With New Orleans being such a musically inclined city, a live band seems like a no-brainer; however, Storm notes that with the rise in popularity of a more dance club type atmosphere, brides are opting to go with a DJ. DJs bring that party atmosphere while offering the option to play almost any song one could think of, while a band brings the energy of live music and a more personal interaction. Casey remarked that more of the brides she works with are choosing both a DJ and a live band. This option is more conducive to an elastic budget, but brings the best of both worlds. Try a jazz or live band for the ceremony, cocktail hour and beginning of the reception ending with a DJ bringing the party atmosphere to pump up the vibe for the rest of the night. Consider your audience and atmosphere. A bride knows her guests and what keeps them entertained. For a quieter or more formal setting, a DJ playing the latest Top 40 hits might seem loud and out of place. However, if the goal is to get everyone up, moving and grooving then a live band that can play the crowd or a DJ with a library of 75,000 songs, such as Omega Sound & Entertainment, is just the key. She also studies the location of the wedding and other festivities. Is your reception big enough for an eight-piece jazz ensemble? If not, then maybe a smaller band or a DJ would be a better option. In the end, it is ultimately up to the
couple, but consider the size of your space and the personality of your guests to make sure everyone from 8-80 is having a great time. Get your guests involved. Once you decide the perfect entertainment, whether a DJ or a full orchestra, get opinions from some of your guests. Whoever your entertainment for the evening may be, they will appreciate knowing the direction in which to take the party. A great way to gain this intelligence is incorporating it into your
invitations or even at the reception itself. Put a line on the RSVP card or a table off to the side for guests to suggest a song. Once they hear their request, they’ll feel like they contributed to the success of the night. When all is said and done, don’t do what’s popular or what anyone else tells you to; have the entertainment you want. Your favorite song, grandma’s best dance moves and the happiness you feel from music you care about makes a moment you’ll never forget. n
Perfect Dance Who better to suggest a first dance than the people who play the music? We asked a few New Orleans musicians to share their favorite picks: “You know, we actually have had a lot of fans come up to us and say that our song ‘I Just Knew’ was their first song. It’s extremely flattering and we’re honored that people would choose that for their wedding day.” – Tom Drummond, Better Than Ezra In my opinion, the best, first dance song is “You and I,” by Stevie Wonder. I think it’s the most complete expression of romantic love that I’ve ever heard in a song. -Deacon John Art Neville’s “All These Things,” a true New Orleans classic for any classic New Orleans wedding. Another great one would be Otis Redding’s “These Arms Of Mine,” which we played at New Orleans’ meteorological couple Dawn Brown and Jonathan Myers wedding in 2010. No one has yet to ask us to play Billy Idol’s “White Wedding” but we know people that have done it. -Mark Mullins, Bonerama Citizen Cope’s “Sideways,” is the song my wife Maggie and I danced to on our first dance when we got married in March. It’s a beautiful song about how love can knock you off your feet. “Sun is Shining Down,” by JJ Grey and Mofro … really makes you appreciate what you have and that the small things are what really matter in life. ‘The Bee Gees’ “To Love Somebody, coming from an unlikely source this song is about what it takes to really love somebody and the joy it provides to your life. We do a version of it, and have had people ask us for a copy of it to use at their weddings. -Ed Williams, The Revivalists I believe that one specific song, “Just the Two of Us,” is a really beautiful song for a wedding couple. Simply because there’s two people that are making a commitment to be together. Gregory aka Moon, Rebirth Brass Band BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 115
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28-Passenger Trolley
Get Them to the Church Trends in cars for couples By Kristen Himmelberg
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ith the luxury wedding transportation trends moving toward classic and convenient options, companies are offering a variety of styles for weddings. In the past extravagant SUV limos were popular, but in recent years the large and luxe is being overlooked for timeless limos and antique cars. “Our most popular is the Rolls Royce,” Stephen Wetzel, manager of Big Easy Limos says, “It’s not like it used to be, the regular standard limos are coming back along with the Rolls Royce.” Despite the demand for the antique and traditional options, Wetzel says they are always looking towards the future. “Now we are just waiting on who’s going to step up and build the next new limos,” Wetzel says.
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Many limousine companies in New Orleans now offer both traditional limos and antique 1950‘s Rolls Royces for brides looking for a more classic feel. However, another increasingly popular wedding transportation trend is the use of minibuses and party buses, which is a more convenient and festive option for couples and their bridal parties. “Minibuses in general are becoming a more popular choice for weddings,” says Chris Bonomolo, transportation sales and logisitics manager of Bonomolo Limousines. “They are quickly taking the place of limousines for the bridal party, as it is a more cost efficient option because it takes the place of two limousines, (one for the groomsmen and one for the bridesmaids).” And a distinctly New Orleans trend that is putting a spin on the traditional, while still being convenient is the use of private trolley cars, something that Bonomolo Limousines offers. “For us specifically, our trolley is the trendy vehicle of choice for our clients, rehearsal dinner, wedding day and even post wedding day brunch have been reasons for brides to reserve the trolley,” Bonomolo says. The 28-passenger trolley car was created to be a replica of the real New Orleans streetcars being used today. “We spent approximately six months customizing every specification so that it would be a near perfect replica to the Canal Street Streetcar inside and out,” Bonomolo says. Tips for Scheduling Your Wedding Transportation When starting to plan your wedding there are countless things to take care of and often transportation is the last thing on your mind. But it doesn’t have to be a hassle if you keep these tips in mind.
STUDIO TRAN PHOTO
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Be Detailed When it comes to your big day, brides should never assume companies know exactly what they want unless they specifically express their plans. That’s why being detailed is one of the most important aspects of booking your transportation. “We always recommend that a bride be as detailed as possible with our office when reserving vehicles, especially for out-of-town guests,” Bonomolo says. If a bride is providing transportation for the wedding guests, it is important to be communicative and appoint a point person. “Always have a contact person in charge of that group, i.e. an aunt, uncle, cousin etc.,” Bonomolo says, “...And a bride can never assume that the driver knows how many guests need transportation. “A bride should try to let the transportation company know how many times a vehicle should shuttle to, from a hotel, church, reception, etcetera, to ensure that all the guests are transported in time.” Most of all remember to determine the logistics beforehand and be thorough when giving directions to your transportation company. Bonomolo says, “It is in everyone’s favor that a bride be as detailed as possible when coordinating logistics for wedding transportation.” Take the time to look It may be easier to just look at pictures of a companies fleet of vehicles online, but taking some time out of your schedule to go out and look at the vehicles makes a big difference, Stephen Wetzel, manager at Big Easy Limos says. “Many times brides just book over the phone and don’t give us the chance to show them our vehicles,” Wetzel says, “What they should do, especially with companies like us that have newer equipment, brides should come out and check out the vehicles before booking.” Know what you are entitled to Before booking make sure to ask questions and know exactly what you are receiving in your package, if you don’t ask, you won’t know and may lose out on important facts. “Always know what services you are entitled to based on the price you have agreed to pay,” Bonomolo says, “If a company is charging for a minimum hourly use, a bride may not be aware that they are fully entitled to having that vehicle at their disposal during that time frame.” It is important for brides to know this especially when providing transportation for guests and family members to and from the church and reception space. Bonomolo Limos allows for an unlimited amount of transfers as long as it’s within the time frame for which they are booked. “For example a bride can have that vehicle do as many transfers [or] shuttles within that minimum hourly time frame,” Bonomolo says.
Cheap doesn’t equal reliable Transportation for your wedding can get expensive, so it is easy to be attracted by less expensive options, but remember that doesn’t always equal reliable service you will be happy with in the end, Bonomolo says. “The most important tip that I stress with any bride when choosing transportation would be not to book transportation based of what company is the cheapest,” Bonomolo says. “The cheapest price will not always get you the most dependable service.” Sometimes paying a little extra will make a big difference, so shop around and see what special things each company offers. For example, Big Easy Limos has high-tech limo software that can plug in the daily route, for all locations, and makes sure the limos are running on time throughout the day, Wetzel says. Bonomolo Limousines offers something important as well, flexibility and dependability. “We pride ourselves on the concept of never double booking vehicles or ‘piggy backing’ transportation services for weddings,” Bonomolo says. Flexibility is important because things can change throughout the planning process. “We understand that certain aspects of a wedding can change periodically from the time you reserve transportation to the night of the rehearsal dinner,” Bonomolo says, “As a result we have a strict policy that any vehicle that client reserves cannot be booked by another person in any way that would place the original reservation in jeopardy if a client decided to move up or down a reservation.” Confirm in advance One of the last steps for wedding transportation prep is the confirmation, which is easy to overlook. “Always contact the company you had hired at least two to three days before the wedding to verbally confirm every logistic of your reservations.” It may seem excessive, but it is important to go over every detail with the company to make sure everything is set and the company knows exactly what you expect the day of the event. “We assign a wedding coordinator that is watching over the wedding and making sure everything will be on time,” Wetzel says, “And if we come into any problems we can take care of it immediately so we still stay on time.” And even up until the last minute you should always be comfortable asking for anything. “Never be afraid to ask any questions,” Bonomolo says. “Transportation companies are in the hospitality industry and are in the business to serve the client to the best ability they can.” n
Rent a party bus to transport your guests on time and safely to and from the wedding to the reception or after-party.
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Real Weddings
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See page 132 for information about getting your wedding in New Orleans Bride magazine.
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Beter - Gondron
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Bride: Blair Beter Groom: Joseph Gondron Ceremony Location: Mandeville Lakefront Under the Oaks Reception Location: Maison Lafitte, Mandeville Coordinator: Charlotte Weil of Charlotte Weil Event Design Gown: Theia Couture, belt from J. Major’s Bridal
Boutique in Charlotte, NC Bridesmaids Dresses: Each bridesmaid found her own Men’s Attire: Mary Ellen’s Tux Shop, Lafayette Rings: Michael’s Fine Jewelry Covington Florist: Florists of Covington Caterer: Maison Lafitte/The Lakehouse Cake: Zoe’s Bakery
Photographer: Greer Gattuso of Greer G Photography Hair: Dominique Romair of Headgames Salon Makeup: Angela Hare via Ashley Sievert Makeup Artists Music: The D Street Band
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Chauvin - GallĂŠ
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Bride: Diana Chauvin Groom: Jack (Jay) Gallé, Jr. Date of Wedding: Oct. 4, 2014 Ceremony: Holy Name of Jesus Church Reception: Audubon Tea Room Coordinator/Wedding Planner: Blue Gardenia Events Gown: Allure Bride from Pearl’s Place Bridesmaids’ dresses: Watters Men’s Attire: John’s Tuxedos
Rings: Kirk Popovich (gemologist) Caterer: Audubon Tea Room Wedding Cake: Bittersweet Confections Groom’s Cake: Nikki Brown Special Sweets: Manhattan Jacks Photographer: Laura Kelley Spillane with Laura Kelley Photographer Videographer: Studio Vieux Carre Florist: Fat Cat Flowers Hair: Shawn Gordon from Beauty Lounge
Makeup: Cat Vo from Aristocat Beauty Ceremony Music: Holy Name of Jesus Musicians Reception Music: Limitless Deejaying Transportation: Nicoll’s Limousine & Shuttle Service Photo Booth: Go Go Booth Live Artist: Christina Pappion/Pappion Artistry
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Fudickar - Mann
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Bride: Terryn Fudickar Groom: Charles Mann Date of the wedding: Jan. 11, 2014 Ceremony & Reception: Race and Religious Coordinator: Sarah Sadler Worsley of Mint Julep Productions
Gown: Anna Maier from Pearl’s Place Rings: Hiller Jewelry Florist: Iris Floral & Event Designs Caterer: Chef Brack May from Cowbell Catering Cake: Zoe’s Bakery Photographer: Katherine Landry
Hair (Stylist and Salon): Dane Castille from be.Salon and Spa and Guru Hair Studio Makeup: Jonet Williamson Music: Glen David Andrews Band Other vendors: Cigar Factory
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Jeffreys - David
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Bride: Whitney Jeffreys Groom: John David Date of the wedding: April 13, 2013 Ceremony: Our Lady of the Rosary Reception: Parkview Terrace at City Park Gown: Watters from Town and Country Bridesmaids’ dresses: Alfred Sung from Town
and Country Men’s Attire: Men’s Warehouse Rings: Engagement Ring: Private Jeweler, Wedding Bands: Aucoin Heart Florist: Villere’s Florist Caterer: City Park Cake: Swiss Bakery
Photographer: Studio Tran Videographer: Bella Productions Hair (Stylist and Salon): Rae from H20 Makeup (Stylist and Salon): Snooties Skin Spa Music: Flow Tribe and All Out Entertainment Invitations, bouquet charm, sign-in book and table: Lakeside Camera Photoworks
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MacAlik - Tibbits
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Bride: Allison MacAlik Groom: Russell Tibbits Date of wedding: Sept. 20, 2014 Ceremony: Irish Cultural Museum Reception: New Orleans Wax Museum Coordinator: Old.New.Blue Catering: Wax Museum
Gown: Online import from China Bridesmaids Dresses: Etsy.com Men’s Attire: Ties from TieBar.com Rings: Blue Nile Florist: Nola Flora Cake: The Sweet Life Photographer: GK Photography, Mike Lirette
Makeup: Midori Tajiri-Byrd, Make Me Up Nola Hair: Hair by Jen Reception music: DJ Phil Parrino, Countdown Sound DJ Experience Second line band: Kinfolk Brass Band
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Want to submit your wedding for our magazine? Check out how.... Do you want to see your wedding in these pages and share your big day with our readers and New Orleans? To be considered as a featured local wedding in New Orleans Bride magazine, mail a CD with high-resolution (4x6/300dpi) photographs. Below is a helpful checklist to double-check that you have all the correct materials.
what we need 1. A Word document of the following vendors: ___ Bride and groom’s full name ___ Date of the wedding ___ Ceremony location ___ Reception location ___ Coordinator ___ Gown (designer and store) ___ Bridesmaids’ dresses (designer and store) ___ Men’s Attire (store) ___ Rings ___ Florist ___ Caterer ___ Cake ___ Photographer ___ Videographer ___ Hair (Stylist and Salon) ___ Makeup (Stylist and Salon) ___ Music ___ Any other vendor you would like to include
2. High-resolution (4x6 / 300dpi) photographs of: ___ Bride and groom ___ Bridesmaids and groomsmen ___ Cake ___ Rings ___ Flowers ___ Ceremony ___ Reception ___ Wedding Favor ___ Second Line ___ Detail shots of shoes, dress, jewelry ___ Detail shots of the decor ___ Please include five other photos of your choice.
* Please send at least 10-15 photographs burned on a CD * Please burn a Word document of your vendors on the CD. All CDs will NOT be returned.
where to send it
How we choose
Please mail your CD of photos and Word document of vendor information to: New Orleans Bride magazine Attn: Tiffani Amedeo 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123 Metairie, LA 70005
New Orleans Bride magazine reserves the right to choose the wedding and the issue of the magazine it will be featured. Submissions are not guaranteed to be published and CDs won’t be returned. The bride, groom and photographer must give permission to use the photographs and information of the submitted wedding.
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Bridal Resources to help you with all your wedding planning needs
Beauty/ health/ fitness Bellissimo Spa & Salon 280 Beach Blvd. Biloxi, MS 228-386-1945 Eerhard@harrahs.com harrahsgulfcoast.com Relax and unwind at the award winning Bellissimo Spa and Salon at Harrah’s Gulf Coast. We welcome you to 16,000 square feet of pure relaxation. Our team of professionals offers a wide variety of services including massages, body wraps, body exfoliating treatments, hydrotherapy, facials, manicures, pedicures, hair services and more. Claire Rav Makeup Metairie 504-201-3437 claire_rav@yahoo.com facebook.com/claireravmakeup Professionally trained Makeup Artist servicing Brides & bridal parties. Specialist 136 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
in airbrush makeup. Hair & Makeup by Melissa and Lauren Makeup: 504-220-7016 Hair: 504-450-6633 Lhunter_09@yahoo.com Being Friends for over 15 years, we would like to give these brides a warm and welcoming experience on there special day. With the skill and knowledge we both have and the amount of pride we take in our work, we feel that we can make your day even more beautiful! Maison de Cheveux 201 St.Charles Ave. #127 New Orleans, LA 504-908-4247 maisondecheveux@gmail.com maisondecheveux.com “Your Neighborhood Salon” A full service salon delivering affordable luxury for everyone. Specializing in color, cut, make-
up, and brides. Offering Bumble and Bumble and Oribe hair care products exclusively.
with an educational facial on product knowledge, along with a Mary Kay Modernized Makeup application.
Makeup By Meggan New Orleans, LA 504-473-7263 meggan@makingovernola.com makeupbymeggan.com Meggan Dupre Ory is a Makeup Artist servicing the greater New Orleans area. Meggan has 9 years experience in makeup artistry. Book Meggan for your wedding or any event where you want to love the way you look!
Mr. Carter’s Exclusive Grooming Lounge and Spa 225-627-3829 9626 Airline hwy. Salon Studios #118 Baton Rouge, LA Mr. Carter’s Exclusive Grooming Lounge in Spa’s mission is to cultivate the artistic direction of the sophisticated man by employing style of keen intelligence with a premium service second to none. We seek to Overwhelm our client’s with Value!
Mary Kay CosmeticsGaynell Kennedy 8616 Steamboat Lane River Ridge, LA 504-669-5880 steamboat123@cox.net marykay.com/gkennedy Learn to Love & Lavish your Skin for Life
Saba ACE Weight Loss and Energy 985-687-3553 Pamela Gianatsis Planning your special day takes lots of time and energy, let us help you with Saba’s All Natural Energy & Weight Loss Supplements. Losing inches, pounds or maintaining your weight may be easier than you think.
advertising section Say “I Do” The Spa at Stone Creek 1201 Ochsner Blvd. Covington, LA 985-801-7120 thespa@stonecreekclubandspa.com thespaatstonecreek.com The Spa at Stone Creek invites you to experience true relaxation and reconnect with nature. Select from our menu of services or allow our experts to design a customized retreat. Trainer To Go LLC 604 Bonnabel Blvd Metairie, LA 70005 504-994-3822 jessie@trainertogonola.com trainertogonola.com Mobile fitness training Tulane Family Dentistry 2504 Tulane Ave. New Orleans, LA 504-304-9929 tulanefamilydentistry@gmail.com tfdnola.com Tulane Family Dentistry aims to provide high quality dental services to patients of all ages. Located in the heart of the new medical corridor of New Orleans, the business provides services including children’s dentistry, cleanings, teeth whitening, fillings, crown and bridge, cosmetic procedures, implants, root canals, dentures, and emergency services. The goal of Tulane Family Dentistry is to communicate the importance of dental health while making each patient feel comfortable and relaxed. Bridal consultants & event designers Blue Gardenia Events 5860 Citrus Blvd. Suite D #108 New Orleans, LA 504-206-8599 bluegardeniaevents.com Blue Gardenia Events is an event planning studio that provides meticulous and professional wedding planning, coordination, and design. Blue Gardenia Events is here to plan your perfect New Orleans event! Blue Skies Events Nola New Orleans, LA 504-491-3987 blueskieseventsnola@gmail.com blueskieseventsnola.com Blue Skies Events Nola is a wedding and event planning company that provides full wedding planning and coordination. Contact Blue Skies today to make sure your event is as beautiful as a Blue Sky. I Do Events New Orleans, LA 504-400-0285 504-473-7777 idoeventsnola@gmail.com idoeventsnola.com A wedding and event planning company that specializes in planning a meaningful and unique event, that creates memories that will last a life time. Let us help you
It’s Your Time Events Covington, LA 504-975-3375 erin@itsyourtimeevents.com itsyourtimeevents.com It’s Your Time Events is an event planning and consulting firm. Whether you are planning a corporate event, wedding, birthday party or extravagant holiday party, It’s Your Time Events will help you design an event based on your ideas, which will be remembered for a lifetime. Southern Belle Events LLC 219 Southern Circle Thibodaux, LA 504-416-5929 southernbelleevents10@yahoo.com southernbelleevents.co Southern Belle Events LLC is a full service wedding and event planning company. We offer services for Weddings from full service coordination down to day/month of event coordination. We accommodate weddings of all size as well as budget. We are truly passionate about our job and believe that every couple should get what they want for there big day! Weddings By lulu New Orleans, LA 504-345-9655 weddingsbylulu@yahoo.com weddingsbylulu.com Detailed and creative professional wedding planning & design. Let us help you plan and design your dream wedding-which you can expect to be on schedule, on budget and totally GORGEOUS! Cake/ pastries Bayou Accents Lafitte, LA bayouaccents@yahoo.com bayouaccents.etsy.com Custom Wedding Cake Pulls made with Swarovski pearls and crystals as stretchy bracelets or keychains and over 30 traditional and New Orleans charms to choose from. Bittersweet Confections 725 Magazine St. New Orleans, LA 504-523-2626 cheryl@bittersweetconfections.com bittersweetconfections.com Custom designed wedding cakes, artisan chocolates, specialty groom’s cakes and decadent desserts to serve at your event. Call today to schedule your tasting. Cocoa Bean Bakery & Cafe 910 E. Morris Ave Hammond, LA 70403 985-345-2002 cakes@thecocoabeanbakery.org thecocoabeanbakery.org Speciality cakes, pastries, wedding cakes and grooms cakes. Joe Gambino’s Bakeries 4821 Veterans Memorial Blvd. Metairie, LA
504-885-7500 email@gambinos.com gambinos.com Gambino’s Bakeries is a family owned bakery that has been creating memories for over 65 years. We specialize in custom wedding and grooms cakes, dessert bars and engagemnt cakes. Melissa’s Fine Pastries By Appointment New Orleans, LA 504-472-8572 melissa@melissasfinepastries.com melissasfinepastries.com For beautiful looking and delicious tasting cakes, schedule an appointment with Melissa’s Fine Pastries to discuss a custom designed cake or pastry bar that will compliment your wedding perfectly. Merrily Cake Co. 985-705-1429 merrilydesignco@gmail.com merrilydesigncompany.com An upscale wedding and party design boutique specializing in custom, topquality cakes, as well as personalized invitations and paper goods, and full service decoration design. Swiss Confectionery, Inc. 747 St. Charles Ave. New Orleans, LA 504-522-7788 mail@swisscakes.net swisscakes.net For over 90 years Swiss has set the standard for wedding cakes in New Orleans. Family owned and operated for five generations, we remain committed to the traditions that have earned our excellent reputation. The Sweet Life Bakery 6268 Vicksburg St. New Orleans, La 504-371-5153 info@nolasweetlofe.com nolasweetlife.com Hidden away in the heart of Lakeview is The Sweet Life Bakery, a cake design bakery that uses inspiration to create incredibly delicious works of art. Our designs range from classic to contemporary. We do cakes that are cute, fun, and classic and ones that are inspired by you. Catering 12 Seasons Catering 131 23rd St. Kenner, LA 504-465-9770 mlore@mrmudbug.com mmi-catering.com 12 Seasons Catering prides itself on offering creative international gourmet-a touch of elegance to events of all sizes and venues. Backed by over twenty years of catering experience in Greater New Orleans, we create cherished memories customized exclusively to you and your guests...prepared by expert chefs and served by experienced professionals in your preferred venue.
Aunt Sally’s Pralines 750 St Charles Ave New Orleans, LA 800-642-7257 service@auntsallys.com auntsallys.com Aunt Sally’s is the authentic purveyor of all things New Orleans. Our specialty is in creating our delicious pralines. We can help you with wedding favors, catering & desserts, and gifts. Martin Wine Cellar 714 Elmeer Ave. Metairie, LA 504-896-7350 hmartin@martinwine.com martinwine.com Family-owned and operated since 1946, Martin Wine Cellar provides an extensive collection of wine, spirits, beer, cheese, gourmet food, gift baskets and wine merchandise. Deli/Bistro and Catering also available. Messina’s Catering and Events 2717 Williams Blvd. Kenner, LA 504-469-7373 allison@messinascatering.com messinascatering.com Passionate about perfection and committed to excellence in every event big or small! Ralph Brennan Catering & Events 111 Veterans Blvd. Metairie, LA 504-539-5511 mursin@neworleans-food.com ralphbrennancatering.com We Work. You Play! For over thirty years, Ralph Brennan and his dedicated team have catered the meals and events that celebrate the moments of your life. Providing full-service custom catering for events large and small, we tailor our services to enhance your palate, theme and budget. Ceremony/reception locations Austin’s Seafood and Steakhouse 5101 West Esplanade Ave. Metairie, LA 504-888-5533 AustinsNO.com Voted “Best Restaurant in Metairie,” Austin’s seafood and steakhouse is available for bridal luncheons, rehearsal dinners, banquets, and corporate events. Three beautiful private rooms can accommodate groups of 10-100 guests. Bourbons Best Balconies & French Quarter Courtyards 504-523-2306 Sales@bourbonsbest.com Bourbonsbest.com French Quarter Courtyards and Bourbon Street Balconies for your Wedding Reception, Rehearsal Party or After Party. Don’t let your After Party be an after thought on your special day! Broussard’s 819 Conti New Orleans, LA BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 137
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Bridal Resources 504-581-3866 valeriel@creolecuisine.com www.broussards.com Broussard’s is one of the founding Restaurants in the French Quarter and one of the most Historic Venues in the city. It boasts a large luscious courtyard and private rooms to host your Wedding or Rehearsal Dinner. Camp Salmen Nature Park 35122 Parish Parkway Slidell, LA 985-898-3011 crt@stpgov.org Campsalmennaturepark.org Camp Salmen Nature Park is 130 acres of unparalleled beauty nestled on the banks of historic Bayou Liberty. The outdoor Amphitheater, which seats 120, is the perfect setting for an outdoor wedding. Three pavilions on the grounds make for a convenient wedding reception. Courtyard on the Ridge 407 Folse St. Harahan, LA 504-737-6660 cotrinfo@gmail.com courtyardontheridge.com Courtyard on the Ridge offers more than 11,000 square feet of ceremony and reception space, accommodating up to 400 guests. Our food is prepared fresh from scratch and served by our professional staff to assure you a memorable day. Creole Queen #1 Poydras St. Suite 39 New Orleans, LA 504-293-2314 knewman@bigeasy.com creolequeen.com A unique wedding venue in the heart of New Orleans. Crescent City Hotel Collection 504-212-2744 nolasales@expotelhospitality.com expotelnolahotels.com The Crescent City Hotel Collection is your ultimate wedding time saver! With multiple hotels in various locations throughout the Greater New Orleans Area, we have it all. Discounted hotel rates for out of town guests, courtyard ceremonies, or private event spaces for reception. Call today! Elms Mansion 3029 St. Charles Ave. New Orleans, LA 504-895-9200 info@elmsmansion.com elmsmansion.com Built in 1869 the Elms Mansion is the ideal setting for wedding ceremonies, receptions and rehearsal dinners. Full-service wedding planning and onsite catering provided. Beautifully preserved interior and expansive gardens. Emerald Grande 138 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
10 Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL 850-585-5451 EmeraldGrande.com Celebrating together at Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village has an enchantment all its own. We have spectacular venues with stunning views to host your event, dream wedding or social celebration. We can take care of all the details so you can relax and make treasured memories. Led by a team of skilled event planning and culinary professionals, our staff is experienced in hosting an incredibly wide range of functions. English Turn Golf & Country Club One Clubhouse Drive New Orleans, LA 504-392-2200 racheala@englsihturn.com Englishturn.com Let our dedicated staff assist you in planning the wedding you have been dreaming of. English Turn is located just 8 miles from downtown New Orleans while at the same time offering a feeling of peacefulness with its tranquil setting. Our outdoor ceremony and reception locations offer the rare opportunity to celebrate your event outdoors with the lush greenery and picturesque setting of our PGA course as your backdrop. Fair Grounds Race Course 1751 Gentilly Blvd New Orleans, LA 504-948-1285 groupsales@fgno.com fgno.com/groupsales Whether it’s a group for “A Day at the Races” to watch live racing in the Clubhouse or Suite, a party in the Black Gold Room, a meeting or an evening party, Fair Grounds is the perfect setting to host your next event. Federal Ballroom New Orleans 147 Carondelet St. New Orleans, LA 504-587-2088 marketing@securitycenter.com federalballroom.com The Federal Ballroom is A Historic Wedding Venue Built in 1923 as a Federal Reserve Bank. The Most Elegant Wedding Venue in the South. Located in the Central Business District Galatoire’s Restaurant 209 Bourbon St. New Orleans, LA 504-335-3933 LLarsen@galatoires.com galatoires.com Galatoire’s has been toasting special occasions since 1905. With elegant French Creole Cuisine, impeccable service and an atmosphere like no other, Galatoire’s will make your special day an unforgettable one.
Generations Hall 310 Andrew Higgins Dr. New Orleans, LA 504-581-4367 hector@generationshall.com generationshall.com With three spacious rooms which can be rented either separately or as a whole, Generations Hall can accommodate any group, large or small. Our three primary spaces are: The Metropolitan One, The Metropolitan Two and The Big Room. The facility is perfect for weddings, private functions, banquets, concerts, luncheons, and convention meetings of any size. Generations Hall provides a unique New Orleans atmosphere for any event. Hampton Inn Hotels & Suites of New Orleans 1201 Convention Center Blvd New Orleans, LA 504-293-1200 alicia@highpointe.com neworleanshamptoninns.com Make your New Orleans wedding comfortable, convenient and stress-free. Consider us for your wedding, reception and guest accommodation needs. Whether your attendees consist of out-oftowners, local residents, or a bit of both, we’re here to ensure they have a truly unique New Orleans experience and are well taken care of. House of Blues 225 Decatur St. New Orleans, LA 504-310-4988 caliopegabrielle@livenation.com facebook.com/HOBSpecialEvents NewOrleans From the plush Foundation Room lounge to the colorful soaring backdrop of the Grand Music Hall, House of Blues offers a variety of unique spaces for all your wedding events. House of Broel’s Victorian Mansion and Gardens 2220 St. Charles Ave. New Orleans, LA 504-522-2220 504-494-2220 info@houseofbroel.com houseofbroel.com The most affordable romantic site in New Orleans is conveniently located on St. Charles Ave. in the historic Garden District. An all-inclusive package makes your event stress free and the lush gardens make glorious pictures. Hyatt French Quarter 800 Iberville St. New Orleans, LA 504-565-4566 vera.faucheux@hyattfrenchquarter.com frenchquarter.hyatt.com Fully renovated property in the French Quarter offering a garden courtyard and beautiful ballroom space leading out to
Canal Street. Hyatt Regency New Orleans 601 Loyola Ave. New Orleans, LA 504-561-1234 kathy.mata@hyatt.com neworleans.hyatt.com From gourmet menus and lavish ballrooms to luxurious guestrooms and exceptional service, our team will ensure your special day is unforgettable.
InterContinental New Orleans 444 St. Charles Ave. New Orleans, LA 504-585-4346 nikki.jackson@icneworleans.com intercontinental.com/neworleans The InterContinental is centered at the core of the city providing convenient access to the historic wonders of the French Quarter and major attractions. This AAA four-diamond award winning hotel features 479 luxuriously appointed guest rooms that include 75 balcony rooms overlooking an urban garden and 30 beautifully appointed suites. JW Marriott New Orleans 614 Canal St. New Orleans, LA 504-527-6752 Margaret.Hartz@marriott.com marriott.com/hotel-weddings/msyjwjw-marriott-new-orleans/modules/ weddings/home-page.mi The sophisticated elegance of JW Marriott New Orleans harmonizing with its oldworld charm offers you and your guests a venue brimming with romance. Come inside and see how we will make your wedding day—and all of the planning leading up to it—joyful in every way. La Thai Uptown 4938 Prytania St New Orleans, LA 504-899-8886 lathaievents@gmail.com lathaiuptown.com Specializing in traditional and contemporary Thai cuisine, we offer customized menus for all of your wedding related events. Our private party room is ideal for seated bridal lunches and rehearsal dinners for up to 75 guests, or can accommodate up to 100 reception style. A quaint, private courtyard is also available for weddings and receptions. Le Pavillon Hotel 833 Poydras St. New Orleans, LA 504-620-4126 gdefraites@lepavillon.com lepavillon.com LePavillon is an exquisite venue for the grandest social events. We are ready to plan your Bridal Luncheon, Rehearsal Dinner, Wedding Ceremony and Reception as
advertising section well as Post Wedding Brunch. LePavillon features the finest in New Orleans cuisine and libations. Every event is orchestrated with precision to assure a delightful experience for the special couple and all of their guests. Loews New Orleans Hotel 300 Poydras St. New Orleans, LA 504-595-5316 kbruno@loewshotels.com loewshotels.com 4 star, 4 diamond hotel, centrally located in downtown New Orleans. Ideal for wedding receptions, outdoor/ indoor ceremonies and receptions, rehearsal dinners, wedding room blocks. Convenient valet parking. The spectacular Louisiana Ballroom is the perfect venue for your reception. The Piazza d’Italia is a dramatic outdoor backdrop for your photos or ceremony. Balance Spa for pre-nuptial treatments. Maison Dupuy Hotel 1001 Rue Toulouse New Orleans, LA 504-648-6114 sales@maisondupuy.com neworleanscourtyardweddings.com In the heart of the French Quarter, this luxurious outdoor courtyard is perfect for parties of 2 to 250 guests. Parties include engagements, rehearsal dinners, wedding ceremonies and receptions. Mercedes-Benz Superdome & Club XLIV at Champions Square Sugar Bowl Drive New Orleans, LA 504-587-3922 clubloungesales@smgneworleans.com mbsuperdome.com The Superdome’s Club Lounges, located on the 200 Level, offer an upscale environment in a uniquely New Orleans venue. With floor to ceiling picturesque windows overlooking the cityscape, the Club Lounges are truly “rooms with a view!” club XLIV is New Orleans’ newest luxury private lounge. With amazing built-in amenities including modern furnishings, illuminated bars, specialty lighting, audio and video package, club XLIV is truly “a wedding planner’s dream!” Messina’s at the Terminal 6001 Stars and Stripes Blvd. New Orleans, LA 504-469-7373 kristin@messinascatering.com messinasterminal.com Messina’s at the Terminal, located in the Lakefront Airport, offers two Event Rooms in a historically, unique Art-Deco environment. Napoleon House 500 Chartres St. New Orleans, LA 504-525-2431 napoleonhousebar@bellsouth.net napoleonhouse.com Located in a National Historic
Landmark, our private facility can accommodate 50-135 guests for cocktail receptions and 40-60 for full service seated dinners. New Orleans City Park 1 Palm Drive New Orleans, LA 504-482-4888 afrentz@nocp.org NewOrleansCityPark.com City Park has it all! Oak trees 100s of years old, amazing architecture, multiple venues, winding lagoons, a over 100 year old wooden Carousel, delicious on site catering, gondola rides and more! New Orleans Hotel Collection 1380 Port of New Orleans Place New Orleans, LA 855-798-6642 FrenchQuarterWeddings.com Splendidly original hotels in america’s Favorite city - gorgeous courtyards, ballrooms and cottages for your wedding. New Orleans Opera Guild Home 2504 Prytania Street New Orleans, LA 504-267-9539 guildhomeevents@neworleansopera.org operaguildhome.org This Garden District mansion is an architectural masterpiece that brings glamour, elegance, and legacy to any special event. The Guild Home is lavishly appointed with 18th and 19th century European and American furniture, artwork, antiques, and objets d’art. With the Tiffany & Double Parlors, marble solarium, and a courtyard garden, the Guild Home presents a variety of sophisticated settings for private intimate or grand gatherings, large or small corporate events, weddings, receptions and filming locations. NOLA Hotel Group 504-962-7220 alebouef@nolahotelgroup.com blakehotelneworleans.com saintjameshotel.com hotelstpierre.com andrewjacksonhotel.com Come experience the joie de vivre that only New Orleans can offer and generate memories that will flourish forever. Whether Downtown or French Quarter, Nola Hotel Group has something that will delight your senses and leave you more than satisfied. Omni Royal Orleans Hotel 621 St. Louis St. New Orleans, LA 504-529-7022 cmyers@omnihotels.com omniroyalorleans.com From a classic ballroom to a private French Quarter courtyard wedding site and Spanish lace balconies, the Omni Royal Orleans is the embodiment of the best of New Orleans wedding location.
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Bridal Resources Palmettos on the Bayou 1901 Bayou Lane Slidell, LA 985-718-8718 palmettosevents@gmail.com palmettosrestuarant.com A rustic venue on Bayou Bonfouca in the heart of slidell. Come by boat or by car!! We have 5,000 square feet of decking all with views of the bayou and beautiful cypress trees. Presidential Palace 1800 Vintage Dr. Kenner, LA 504-467-3500 Presidential Palace.com thepresidentialpalace@gmail.com Presidential Palace, the most elegant reception venue in the greater New Orleans area features all inclusive packages that make your wedding day stress free! Our goal is to make sure your & your guests every need is met. Presidential Palace, where your ever after... Begins. Redemption 3835 Iberville St. New Orleans, LA 504-309-3570 delaunes@redemption-nola.com redemption-nola.com Housed in an exquisite 100-year-old historic church, Redemption is the perfect venue for all of your bridal events, including an intimate ceremony on their lush, private patio. Executive Chef Greg Picolo will custom design a menu to delight your guests and make your big day one to remember. Riverview Room 600 Decatur Street, 4th Floor New Orleans, LA 504-525-3000 maryq@riverviewroom.com riverviewroom.com You won’t find a more romantic setting for your wedding reception than the Riverview Room with its indoor and outdoor panoramic views of the mighty Mississippi River, combined with the charm and beauty of the French Quarter. Rosy’s Jazz Hall 500 Valence St. New Orleans, LA 504-896-7679 steve@rosysjazzhall.com rosysjazzhall.com Rosy’s Jazz Hall is a unique venue with a warm atmosphere and a rich New Orleans heritage. We have a two story atrium, which is used for wedding ceremonies as well as an indoor balcony and beautiful outdoor New Orleans Style Courtyard. Royal Palm 1901 Manhattan Blvd. Building E Harvey, LA 140 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
504-644-4100 kim@5starfpc.com royalpalmfpc.com Royal Palm is a luxury events venue located only 7 miles from downtown New Orleans. We have ample parking, and can accommodate events anywhere from 30 to 1000 guests. Royal Sonesta Hotel New Orleans 300 Bourbon St. New Orleans, LA 504-553-2205 RSNOinfo@sonesta.com www.sonesta.com/royalneworleans For over 40 years the Royal Sonesta’s experienced wedding professionals have been creating storybook weddings in New Orleans with exceptional style and the highest degree of personal service. Southern Oaks Plantation 7816 Hayne Blvd. New Orleans, LA 504-245-8221 weddings@southernoaksplantation.com southernoaksplantation.com A stylish mélange of the charm, delicious food, exceptional service, and unique culture of New Orleans. Elegant garden-style ceremonies and spectacular receptions inside the mansion make chic and unforgettable celebrations. Stella Plantation 4881 Highway 39 Braithwaite, LA 504-919-7474 krystle@stellaplantation.com stellaplantation.com Stella’s vast size and diverse venues makes it ideal for an array of wedding festivities, from a breathtaking background for bridal portraits, to an intimate ceremony or the grandest reception! The Cannery 3803 Toulouse St. New Orleans, LA 504-486-8351 info@cannerynola.com cannerynola.com The Cannery is a premiere wedding venue. The 12,000 sqft venue includes an outdoor terrace, grand foyer, ballroom, chic lounge & bridal suite with a private restroom and walk-in closet. The Chicory 610 S. Peters New Orleans, LA 504-521-8055 brent.bogan@chicoryvenue.com chicoryvenue.com The Chicory, an elegant venue for your New Orleans wedding ceremony and reception, features exposed beams, brick walls, and gas lanterns. Originally built in 1852 as a coffee warehouse, The Chicory has maintained its simple name with New Orleans pride. With over 25,000 square
feet, 6 rooms and an elegant outdoor rooftop, The Chicory is a very versatile space. From intimate private dinners to grand New Orleans weddings, and corporate events, The Chicory offers a unique and historic event space. The Court of Two Sisters 613 Royal St. New Orleans, LA 504-522-7261 court2si@courtoftwosisters.com courtoftwosisters.com The Court of Two Sisters is available for wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners and bridal luncheons and showers. Enjoy historic, elegant ambiance for your special occasion! W Hotels of New Orleans 333 Poydras St. New Orleans, LA 504-207-5173 whotelsofneworleans.com Get ready for your big day. Say “I do” overlooking the sparkling downtown lights at W New Orleans, or celebrate under the stars in the courtyard at W French Quarter. Flowers Arbor House Floral 2372 St. Claude Ave. New Orleans, LA 504-656-4884 info@arborhousefloral.com arborhousefloral.com Arbor House Floral offers expert design and over forty-five years of experience in the bridal industry. Be confident that your wedding day will be as beautiful as you dream. Bee’s Wedding and Event Designs 738 Phosphor Ave. Metairie, LA 504-830-4031 Eric@beesweddingdesigns.com BeesWeddingDesigns.com At Bee’s Wedding & Event Floral Designs in New Orleans, we understand that every wedding is like no other, because every bride has a unique vision of what her wedding ceremony and reception should be. We also recognize that the decisions and pressures involved in a wedding can be frustrating and timeconsuming. Our decades of experience with weddings have taught us that our first job is to learn your needs and concerns. The next step is for us to follow through with close attention to every detail, helping to give you more time and less worry. With a wide range of floral options and a longstanding reputation for personalized service, Bee’s stands ready to help make your wedding day in New Orleans joyful, beautiful and trouble-free. Beth’s Flowers
2014 CLearview Parkway Metairie, LA 504-455-2353 bethsflorist@gmail.com bethsflowersonline.com Wedding florist & wedding planners (full service or day of). Brittney Ray’s Florist 2108 Paris Road Chalmette, LA 504-271-9012 brittneyrays@yahoo.com brittneyraysflorist.com We realize a wedding is a once in a lifetime affair! We provide exceptional, personalized service and use only the freshest flowers. We are family owned and operated for over 25 years. Each work of art that leaves our store is designed especially for you with experience and class. Fabulous Flowers LLC. By Appointment New Orleans, LA 504-909-0253 fabulousflowers@cox.net fabulousflowers.us Specializing in weddings and events Fabulous Flowers can provide a wide selection of styles and looks for your special day while working with your budget! Make your wedding, Fabulous! Grow With Us Florist 106 Metairie Heights Ave. Metairie, LA 504-837-9449 flowers@growithus.com growithus.com Fresh, custom, unique florals. Iris Floral + Event Design Studio 5331-B Canal Blvd. New Orleans, LA 504-304-4966 weddings@irisnola.com www.irisnola.com Custom-designed wedding flowers...no minimums...local, destination, bridalparty-only weddings welcome! Kim Starr Wise Floral Events 2032 Adams St. New Orleans, LA 504-315-5607 kim@kimstarrwise.com kimstarrwise.com Unique floral designs for your special event and wedding. We create florals built around your look and style! If you can dream it, we can make it! Poppy & Mint Floral Company 401 Lafayette Gretna, LA 504-338-9168 poppyandmint@gmail.com poppyandmintfloral.com We are a charming floral studio with
advertising section a penchant for all things vintage and crafty! The Crystal Vase Flowers & Gifts New Orleans/Baton Rouge Areas, LA 504-888-8891 crystalvaseflowers@gmail.com crystalvaseflowers.com We are a localy family owned wedding and event florist for the greater New Orleans area who have recently spanned out to the Northshore and Baton Rouge area. I have been in the wedding floral business for the past 20 years and enjoy every aspect of it. Let me help make your special day memorable! The Plant Gallery 9401 Airline Highway New Orleans, LA 504-488-8887 Shane@theplantgallery.com ThePlantGallery.com The impact that floral arrangements have on a wedding’s ambience cannot be underestimated. Their natural elegance reminds guests of the simple beauty of love, and their vivacity celebrates the couple’s new life together. To ensure that our custom creations meet the happy couple’s vision, we hold one-on-one consultations to discuss theme, color, and setting among other details.
Gifts/ registry Adler’s 722 Canal St., New Orleans 504-523-5292 adlersjewelry.com For over 100 years, generations of brides have chosen Adler’s for their wedding registry. Whether you are selecting your fine china, crystal, silver or even wedding party gifts, Adler’s offers a vast selection the world’s finest brands to choose from. Orient Expressed 3901-05 Magazine St. New Orleans, LA 504-899-3060 customerservice@orientexpressed.com OrientExpressed.com Orient Expressed...Creative Options for dressing Your Family & Your Home! Home Decor & Children’s clothing retail store and online, specializing in Bridal Registry and complimentary Gift Wrap & local Delivery. Honeymoon travel Gone With The Wind Travel 4051 Veterans Blvd. Suite 201 Metairie, LA 504-888-9198 gwtwtravel@aol.com www.gwtwtravel.com We are a full service travel agency specializing in honeymoons. From the
Caribbean to Europe. Call for all your travel needs.
Your honeymoon and destination wedding specialist!
Paradise Vacation Escapes 844-538-2727 ext 700 225-303-2240 shannon@ParadiseVacationEscapes.com ParadiseVacationEscapes.com Specializing in Honeymoons, Destination Weddings and romance travel. We create memorable trips so you can put your time and energy doing other things instead of spending hours and hours of time researching. Over 14 years of experiences. Shannon LeBlanc is THE Chief Romance officer and Honeymoon expert!
Invitations Exquisite Events New Orleans, LA 504-975-4089 Info@eeinvites.com eeinvites.com Custom invitations and stationary for the discerning taste.
Town & Country Travel Inc 110 Veterans Blvd. Suite 180A Metairie, LA 504-838-8702 tctvl@bellsouth.net townandcountrytravelinc.com We are a full service travel agency specializing in Honeymoons and Destination Weddings. Call for your consultation. Travel Central 3221 N Causeway Blvd. Metairie, LA 504-834-7000 vacations@travelcentralvacations.com travelcentralvacations.com
MagnetStreet Weddings 3890 Pheasant Ridge Drive NE #190 Blaine, MN 55449 800-788-0611 rlmaleski@gmail.com MagnetStreet.com/weddings Personalized Wedding Stationery in YOUR colors! Save the Dates, Invitations, Programs, Favors, Thank Yous and more. And because quality matters, FREE color palettes and stationery samples available. Simply Beautiful Stationery 225-287-6706 LReed@sbstationery.com sbstationery.com At Simply Beautiful Stationery, we help to make your first impression, your best impression. Simply Beautiful Stationery provides elegant, fine hand-made wedding stationery, hand painted aisle
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Bridal Resources runners and accessories that capture the essence of your event.
PARTY !!
Jewelry Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers 5700 Veterans Memorial Blvd. Metairie.LA 504-885-4653 diamonds@ramseys.com Extraordinary quality. Prices that will delight. No one does Diamonds like Ramsey’s.
Photo booths Boogie Booth Photo Booth Comapny PO Box 581 Mandeville, LA 504-457-8033 info@boogiebooth.com boogiebooth.com We are a full service photo booth and green screen company who specializes in bringing the fun to your event.
Stella & Dot by Allie Pierson 1167 Robert E Lee Blvd New Orleans, LA 504-722-6058 alliepierson@yahoo.com stelladot.com/alliep Amazing on trend jewelry and travel accessories perfect for the bride and the entire wedding party! Allie will style your wedding and honeymoon based on your budget, your taste, and your style!
DemiPiX Photo Booth 4801 Burke Drive Metairie, LA 504-400-1584 DemiPiXPhotoBooth@gmail.com DemiPiXPhotoBooth.com Photo Booth fun to add a splash of spontaneous, candid, momentous FUN to your wedding. We customize our booth and your photo to your venue. Makes great wedding favors!
Music Music: Barbarella Blue- vocalist 504-656-9188 barbarellablue.com Barbarellablueband@gmail.com Barbarella Blue is a New Orleans based band, performing: Blue eyed soul, jazz, rhythm and blues. Samples of music can be heard on website, and youtube. Available for parties, weddings, and more.
Funtastic Fotos, LLC P.O. Box 58418 New Orleans, LA 504-466-9209 anthony@funtasticfotos.com funtasticfotos.com Funtastic Fotos’ flipbook technology requires guest to move around for only 7 seconds with props in hand in front of a white or green screen. The 7 second video is then converted into a flipbook, which is printed on-site in about 90 seconds. All flipbooks and pricing include a custom designed cover, use of props and hand held signs, as well as a DVD compilation of all the videos at your event.
DJ Ronnie Roux PO Box 74666 Metairie, LA 504-494-8269 DjRonnie.com DjRonnieRoux.com Experience is everything when picking a DJ for your event. Added options include up lights, DJ Facade, and a TV slideshow. Refried Confuzion 504-249-8250 jason@refriedconfuzion.com refriedconfuzion.com New Orleans’ premiere wedding and second line band celebrating ALL THINGS NOLA! WAWA Band 2517 Valmont St. New Orleans, LA 504-952-6985 walteralleniii@gmail.com The WAWAband is a Variety band from NEW ORLEANS La.The band is high energy show band an has dazzled audiences from all over the world this band plays songs from the 60s thru the hits of today you will never be disappoint by the sounds of the wawaband, the real deal is what we like to think of ourselves, we play every song with heart an feeling, each member brings to the stage his or her piece of the gumbo, so WE ROCK THE
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Inslomo Booth 1940 Cambronne St. New Orleans, LA 504-875-7170 info@inslomobooth.com inslomobooth.com Inslomo Booth is a slow motion video/ photo booth. Unlike your typical photo booth our booth allows you to take slow motion video clips and provides your guests with keepsake prints and video clips. We can also provide you with a custom post event video edit of all the video clips at your event. Snap And Sketch Photo Booths PO Box 74666 Metairie, LA 504-494-8269 SnapAndSketch.com The next generation of photo booths are here. Features include a touchscreen tv, email/text your photo instantly, photo filters, traditional film strips, and 4x6 photo cards. Photography Arte de Vie 1504 Lynnette Drive
Metairie, LA 504-592-3522 info@artedevie.com artedevie.com CheyAnne and Doug are romantics at heart and love documenting the most special day of a couple’s life. Please check out our website to learn more about us, and contact us to schedule a meeting at our studio! Belle Amour Photography 1441 Fremaux Ave. Slidell, LA 985-768-6603 nichole@photgraphybybelleamour.com photographybybelleamour.com “Beautiful Love” We capture strive to capture those small moments that help to tell the story of your big day. Billiot Photography and Video 285 Moss Lane Mandeville, LA 504-669-3082 chuckbilliot@bellsouth.net ChuckBilliot.com I know how important it is to have a relaxed fun and positive attitude the day of your wedding. I’ll help you accomplish this with a professional, caring approach. A Certified Professional Photographer, my style is photojournalistic, working with a sensitivity to move quickly and quietly so that you can enjoy your wedding day. Serving over 900 brides since 1995. Bob Bradford Photography 2214 Milton St. New Orleans, LA 504-943-2622 bob@bobbradford.com bobbradford.com Full service photography studio that specializes in weddings. David Tompkins Photography 504-738-7944 david@davidtompkinsphotography.com davidtompkinsphotography.com David Tompkins is a Master Photographer and Photographic Craftsman. As a photographic artist, David has shot weddings all over the world. David can customize your wedding to your needs. Eau Claire Photographics 641 N. Alexander St. New Orelans LA 504-432-7879 sandra@eauphoto.com Eau Claire Photographics is naturally bright, colorful, lively, happy, emotional, fun, modern yet classic wedding photojournalism. Eye Wander Photo 244 Linda Ave. Baton Rouge, LA 225-772-4051 aaronhogan@eyewanderphoto.com
eyewanderphoto.com Wedding photography with a realness. Real passion, real emotion. I specialize in people therefore you become my entire focus, making you look your best, capturing you in the best light. GK Photography 10170 Jefferson Hwy River Ridge, LA 504-737-5557 george@gkphotography.com gkphotography.com Award winning imagery...just for you! George’s attention to detail and creative style has made him a trusted favorite with local celebrities. George will capture every moment of your day with a blend of creative posing and emotion-filled candids. Images By Robert T. 985-966-2793 info@imagesbyrobertt.com imagesbyrobertt.com With the many years of experience, Trent has made a name for himself in South Louisiana as a photographer flexible enough to produce heart-warming memories for families during the special milestones of their life. When a couple allows me to photograph their wedding, I become a part of their life. For as long as they live, they will look at the pictures of their wedding and remember the photographer who took them. For that long, I remain a part of their life story, that’s what makes my job rewarding. LA Studios 2808 Athania Pkwy Metairie, LA 504-669-5711 r.ron@cox.net LAStudios1.com Photographer specializing in contemporary wedding photography. Also destination weddings. We provide still photography and video productions at very reasonable prices. Luxe Imaging Photography 50 Nassau Ave. Kenner, LA 337-849-1446 504-920-5893 Luxeeventphotography.com Luxe Imaging is a New Orleans based photography and photobooth company. We pride ourselves in providing client services that are above and beyond expectations. Capturing your moment is our Passion. Rick King Photography 445 Laura Dr. North Mandeville, LA 985-626-3614 rking@rickkingphotography.com rickkingphotography.com Wedding Photography
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Southern Shutter Photography, LLC P.O. Box 759 Natalbany, LA 318-423-0926 southernshutterphotographyllc.com I believe there is great value in documenting our lives an all things that it make I worth living. To me, our world is amazon, packet full of priceless mounts in time, waiting for all of us to capture it in one way or another. I believe capturing these moments through progressive composition can add something to our lives by brining to mind our most precious memories: those events in our lives that make up who we actually are. This is why amateur and professional photographers are an important part of our world, recording images for our sleeves and future generations to enjoy. Stacy Marks Photography 1025 N Hullen St. Metairie, LA 504-237-2173 stacymarkswed@gmail.com stacymarks.com Stacy was chosen Photographer of the Year by his peers in the Wedding Professionals Guild. The Guild consists of over 65 of New Orleans top vendors. Stacy was also nominated for Photographer of the year 3 years running. Welch Photography & Video 1199 Girod St. Mandeville, LA 985-845-8405 WelchPhoto@gmail.com WelchPhotoVideo.com Capturing weddings for over 12 years, we will be there for all the special moments, making sure all the fun and joy is preserved in your photos and video. Real estate 1st Lake Properties, Inc 504-455-5059 rentals@1st-lake.com 1stlake.com 1st Lake Properties has over 70 locations and offers over 9,500 quality apartment homes in the greater New Orleans area. Where you live is our business. The Dazet Group 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 504-345-1000 DazetGroup.com The Dazet Group has been selling real estate for over 25 combined years and are consistently ranked as one of Keller Williams Top Producing Teams out of 100,000+ KW agents. Our operation is a full service one which involves the synchronization of many different job functions. By handpicking specialized team members to handle the different facets of the Real Estate sales process, we are able to provide optimum service to our clients. The Dazet Group has helped over 1000 buyers/sellers who have walked away happy with our full scale Real Estate service!
Rentals Party Rentals Delivered, LLC 2323 Bainbridge Ave. Suite 108 Kenner, LA 504-441-8705 partyrentalsdelivered@gmail.com PartyRentalsDelivered.com We are passionate about what we do, committed to providing impeccably maintained equipment, on-time delivery and pickup and unparalleled customer service. Royal Event Rental 34 Woodvine Court Covington, LA 504-481-9416 royaleventrental@yahoo.com royaleventrental.com Royal Event has a modern take on today’s events. Our exclusive collections of Crystals, Metals, Vintage Arts & Pieces, Antique Furniture, and Lighting will forever change your event landscape. Set a chic new standard for high-style rental furniture. Special services Fine Art Portraits camillebarnesstudio.com 985-277-9320 Complete your memory with an original work of art celebrating the moment and capturing the magic moment in time forever. Camille is an award winning artist. She will create a masterful oil portrait of the bride and/or groom, or a scene from their honeymoon. All types of commission work(s) are available. Harvie Live Wedding Paintings 2961 Maurepas St. New Orleans, LA 985-687-9106 info@harvieoilpaintings.com www.harvieoilpaintings.com As seen on TLC Four Weddings. Guests are amazed as Harvie transforms a blank canvas into a timeless keepsake using oil paints and thick impasto texture. The Bride and Groom are the focal point, surrounded by the bridal party and guests. Transform your wedding from ordinary to extraordinary with this unique form of entertainment. Heirloom Live Event Paintings 4401 Euphrosine New Orleans, LA 504-812-1750 heirloomlive.com Heirloom Live Event Paintings would like to capture a moment in time from one of your most important days of your life! We will come to your wedding and create a keepsake that can be passed down from generation to generation. Our Paintings come to life and depict that special moment as your guests watch the artist in action! You now have a memory that can last forever! Pappion Artistry LLC Event Painting On Location 504-710-2434 BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 143
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Bridal Resources christina@pappionartistry.com pappionartistry.com Pappion Artistry males your special wedding day come to life with a live painting heirloom and artistic entertainment! Connect and view portfolio on instagram @pappionartistry and on Facebook. SecondLine Handkerchiefs 504-251-5567 backyardprinting@gmail.com secondlinehandkerchiefs.com Make your special event memorable with custom printed handkerchiefs and custom decorated umbrellas. Each will add “something special” to your wedding. You can choose our designs or upload your own. Spice of Life Women’s Expo 504-539-4602 spiceoflifewomensexpo.com Spice of Life Women’s Expo New Orleans is the only annual Women’s Event in New Orleans. March 21-22, 2015, Morial Convention Center. Produced by Paramount Shows., Inc. True Gents Waitstaff Co. P.O. Box 911 Gonzales, LA 225-264-0564 An elegant company that cares about your success as a Bride. Attention to detail is only the beginning, the results is seeing you smile with satisfaction. Transportation Celebrity Limousine & Transportation, Inc. P.O. Box 73373 Metairie LA 504-888-5466 tierney@celebritylimoservice.com celebritylimoservice.com Family owned and operated since 1982. Videography Bella Productions Wedding Films 5860 Citrus Blvd., Suite D194 New Orleans, LA 504-400-7915 Korry@mybellafilm.com mybellafilm.com Cinematic Wedding Films Dyle Films 6390 General Diaz New Orleans, LA 504-813-4183 info@dylefilms.com dylefilms.com We all feel so blessed to be working in the wedding industry. Working in and around New Orleans has taught us a lot - especially how amazing it is to get married in an area so rich in culture and history. Weddings in the South are like no other and we embrace that. We think it is so wonderful to be able to capture such a significant day in someone’s life. We love
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to concentrate on the little details that could otherwise be lost in the big picture. Most importantly, we like for each bride and groom to just live in the moment and trust that they will be able to relive their wedding day forever through our work. Tim Mcaskill Cinematic Weddings 504-390-1002 tmcaskill1@cox.net timmcaskill.com Wedding Videographer Your Day Video & Photography 504-273-0005 weddings@yourdayproduction.com YourDayProduction.com Video & photography services for your special day with over 25 years of experience. Our combination of creative video artists and the latest technology gives us the ability to transform the record of your wedding into an original and stylish work of art you will want to watch forever. Wedding apparel Banbury Cross 100 Atherton Dr. Metairie, LA 504-837-0447 banburycrosskids@aol.com banburycrossonline.com Classic children’s clothing and gifts as well as fine children’s apparel and shoes for special occassions. Bustles and Bows Bridal Boutique 3230 Severn Ave Suite B Metairie, LA 504-780-7090 bustlesandbows@gmail.com bustlesandbowsbridal.com Come say “I DO”, in Style! I Do Bridal Couture 4265 Perkins Road Baton Rouge, LA 225-361-0377 ramsey@idobridalcouture.com idobridalcouture.com Louisiana’s couture bridal boutique offers private suites for brides and their families. Exclusive lines include Monique Lhuillier, Sareh Nouri New York, Heidi Elnora, Liancarlo, Tulle, and AMSALE, Watters, Bliss Monique Lhuillier, and Nicole Miller. John’s Tuxedos 3200 Houma Blvd. Metairie, LA 504-455-5353 johnstuxedos.com A locally owned and operated full service men’s formalwear store serving the New Orleans Area since 1984. Voted “Best of the Knot”. Ladies and Gent’s Formal Wear 708 East I-10 Service Road Slidell, LA
985-643-9449 ladiesgentsfw@aol.com ladiesgentsformalwear.com We are dedicated to bringing you exceptional service, attention to detail and an atomospher of distinction that you will not find anywhere else. It’s not just a wedding day, it’s your wedding day. Making it memorable is as important to us as it is to you! Linda Lee Bridal & Boutique 3848 Veterans Memorial Blvd. Suite 203 Metairie, LA 504-889-1889 lindaleebridal@yahoo.com We are a full service bridal salon that caters to all brides no matter what their budget, style, or size. Find the gown of your dreams at Linda Lee Bridal. Pearl’s Place 3114 Severn Ave. Metairie, LA 504-885-9213 info@pearlsplace.com pearlsplace.com Family owned & operated for 42 years. The only full service bridal salon in the metro area. Looking forward to helping you & your family with any of your bridal needs. As always complimentary alterations. Rome’s Tuxedos 3213 17th St. Metairie, LA 504-324-7227 romestuxedos@gmail.com romestuxedos.com Tuxedo and suit rentals and sales. Southern Bridal 1200 West Causeway Approach Suite 8 Mandeville, LA 985-727-2993 southernbridal@yahoo.com southernbridal.net We love to dress your entire wedding party with Unique & fashion forward styles, and pride ourselves in offering the highest level of customer service! The Bridal Boutique by MaeMe 3331 Severn Ave. Metairie, LA 504-266-2771 maemebridal@gmail.com mae-me.com Designer gowns at delightful prices where customer service is always in style! Bridal, Mother of the Bride, Bridesmaid, Flowergirls, Accessories, Jewelry & More! Trashy Diva 537 Royal St. New Orleans, LA 504-522-4233 2048 Magazine St. New Orleans, LA (504) 299-8777
trashydiva.com The perfect wedding starts with Trashy Diva’s Bridal Collection. We feature vintage inspired styles for the bride and bridal party. Complete your special day with clothing, shoes, accessories, and lingerie from Trashy Diva. Tuxedos to Geaux 3400 16th St. Metairie, LA 504-455-5393 tuxedostogeaux@gmail.com tuxedostogeaux.com DON’T RENT! OWN IT! New tuxedo coat, pant, formal shirt, tie and cummerbund set or New Suit, dress shirt and tie with free lifetime alterations. $159!! We specialize in wedding groups, small or large. Wedding retail Blanc Bridal Couture 3819 Magazine St. New Orleans, LA Ido@blancbridalneworleans.com blancbridalneworleans.com Visit Blanc Bridal Couture for an intimate, exclusive wedding gown shopping experience. Be pampered as your experienced, fashion-forward personal stylist navigates you through our well-edited collection of hand-selected designer gowns. From traditional to “something different,” Blanc Bridal Couture has something for every bride. Bridal. Bridesmaids. Flowergirls. Appointments encouraged. Old Town Praline and Rue Royale Weddings 1506 Veterans Blvd. Metairie, LA 504-828-6228 oldtownpraline.com Old Town Praline has been family owned and operated since 1932. We specialize in providing our freshly made pralines, wedding favors, custom made second line umbrellas, printed hankies (from our designs or your), and welcome bags. Stop by our store, visit our websiteoldtownpraline.com or give us a call! Tie The Knot Specialty Shop 5101 W. Esplanade Ave. Suite # 17 Metairie, LA 504-301-9101 brittany@tietheknotnola.com tietheknotnola.com Tie the Knot Specialty Shop is the source for all your wedding accessory and gift needs. From jewelry to handbags, we’ve got you covered. •
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HONEYMOON
Singita Explore
Just Do It Honeymoons that go beyond the lounge chair By Becca Hensley
A
top a sturdy thoroughbred steed you and your groom canter among a dazzle of zebras as if you’ve entered a fairytale. While your guide leads you across the flaxen expanse of Tanzania’s Serengeti plain, you ride close enough to see the wild creatures up close. They have velvety noses and limpid, alert eyes. Like your horse, they chortle, snuffle and neigh as they gallivant through the grassland. When a tower of giraffes joins the throng, your horse leaps deftly across
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an elephant-crushed Acacia tree. “Jumping for joy,” says your guide. Nearby, some meditative wildebeest stare as if watching a parade, a tree holds a committee of colorful birds and an eland antelope feeds. On the horizon, a herd of elephants top a ridge, their profiles outlined against an azure sky. This equestrian safari at Singita Grumeti Reserve, organized by award-winning outfitter Micato Safaris, leads you to embrace what writer Karen Blixen called “the rhythm of Africa.” Just married
and exploring the bush on horseback, you feel vibrant. Later, when you arrive to Singita Explore, a mobile, luxury-tented campsite, you sip champagne beneath the stars, nibble a gourmet dinner and dream about what tomorrow’s romp through the bush will bring. The Deal
Adventure-packed honeymoons, like this upmarket East African safari, ensure lifelong memories. Choosing to do something active, daring or exotic
Paragon Guide
the Pacific side, deep sea fishing, riding pontoon boats through the canals of the Guanacaste Region or wandering the trails of the Monteverde Cloud Forest. She suggests staying in treehouse-like hotels, where couples can watch monkeys play in the branches. More time, more adventure Divers should head to Fiji, a South
Six Senses Yao Noi
binds you closer to your true love for life. Though relaxing on a sandy crescent in a tropical setting has its appeal, some couples are opting for post-wedding holidays that require more. They seek a challenge: a trip that takes them beyond their comfort zone. These lovers want to pump up the adrenaline, fulfill fantasies and enrich their minds. Doing something monumental together will live forever in the mind, only growing more meaningful over the coming years. Where To Go
Lucienne Gore of Town & Country Travel says couples don’t need to 150 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
travel far to work up a sweat. “I’ve been sending lots of newlyweds to St. Lucia, part of the Lesser Antilles in the Eastern Caribbean Sea,” she remarks. “There, they can hike the rainforest, whiz across the sky on ziplines or bounce along the landscape in ATVs. Afterward, when they finally get tired, there’s always the beach.” Melinda Bourgeois of Travel Central Vacations enthuses about Costa Rica, a diverse Central American mecca just a short flight from New Orleans. “There is so much to do there—and it is just so beautiful,” she says. Bourgeois suggests: learning to surf at funky hamlets such as Playa Tamarindo on
Pacific nation composed of more than 300 islands. Make like a castaway and bunk at the luxurious Royal Davui, an adults only resort located on its own secluded islet. Dotting the Beqa Lagoon, this paradise has 16 cliff-side, ocean-view vales (their word for villas), multiple beaches, a swimming pool and friendly Fijian staff willing to cater to energetic twosomes. Take advantage of 10 world-class dive sites that encircle Royal Davui, including a shipwreck just off shore. Fearless paramours can swim with the sharks at one location, where nine species (from Tiger to Lemon) lurk. Considered one of the “two best shark experiences in the world,” this one on the Beqa Lagoon takes divers down without cages. You’ll be enveloped in a frenzy of fish to witness marine biologists feed the bevy of beasts. Back at the resort, between dives, couples can race through the waves on Hobie Cats (Royal Davui’s dive master is a member of the national youth sailing team), snorkel, visit a traditional Fijian village to hear a children’s choir croon, quaff the national beverage known as kava or river raft through the soaring canyons of the mainland. For wildlife enthusiasts, the endangered mountain gorilla
Royal Davui
awaits Rwanda. Track them in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park with Volcanoes Safaris, where you’ll follow a ranger into the thickly wooded bamboo forest in search of these majestic apes. Gentle giants, brought to world attention by the late Dian Fossey, they live in family groups, lorded over by a gargantuan Silverback. Once you come across the brood, you’ll spend a joyous hour in their presence, monitoring and photographing their frolicsome lifestyle in this natural habitat. When the day ends, return to Virunga Lodge to toast your day with a sundowner, and enjoy local entertainment and riveting views. Complete your trip with a stay at Gahinga Lodge (also operated by Volcanoes Safaris) in Uganda, where you can trek for golden monkeys or meet the indigenous forest people known as the pygmies. On the shore of the Adaman Sea in Southern Thailand, Phang Nga Province holds a number of lesser-developed islands. Find Six Senses Yao Noi on one of them, 45-minutes by boat from Phuket. Composed of individual villas, that overlook the sea, this intimate and transporting resort roots deeply into Thai culture to reflect an indulgent, yet authentic experience, with a centerpiece based on sustainability.
Comprised of an organic garden and mushroom hut, free-roaming hens, a spa with locally inspired treatments and a yoga platform that hovers over the emerald waters, Six Senses Yao Noi keeps active guests on point with water sports, a Thai boxing ring, individual swimming pools and bicycling outings. Not to be missed is a kayaking excursion through the mangroves on Tha Lane Bay and rock climbing the mystical karst formations that jut from the sea. You don’t have to wear matching lederhosen and mount a bicycle built for two to pedal across Austria—but you could. Bike Tours Direct organizes bike tours throughout Europe for besotted pairs (or larger groups). They’ll deliver your suitcases from hotel to hotel while you cycle along well-marked paths at your own pace. Choose the route along the Danube from Passau to Vienna to see ancient castles, vineyards, orchards and evocative villages. Or, take to the hills of the Salzkammergut in “Sound of Music” country. There, you can belt out a tune as you ascend peaks and pass by the limpid lakes which make this district near Salzburg famous. Have room in your relationship for a llama? You may want to adopt one after he joins you on one of Paragon Guide’s
hut-to-hut llama hikes along the pineflanked trails that wind from Vail to Aspen. Or, once the snow falls, strap on some skis and relish those backcountry trails S-turn style, guide in tow. Choose Vail for your tryst to hammer down life-altering slopes a deux—like the apropos, Lovers Leap. Ensconced in style at the Four Seasons Vail, you can ice climb, dog sled, winter horseback-ride or heli-ski. Tuck into the ritzy Elevation Residences at Solaris for the Weston Snowboard package, which gets you handmade, bespoke snowboards or skis to commemorate your union. Wherever you go, you’ll come home to rest. But, honestly, you wouldn’t want it any other way. n
For more information Honeymoon Ideas: Virtuoso.com Singita: Singita.com Micato Safaris: Micato.com St. Lucia: StLuciaNow.com Costa Rica: VisitCostaRica.com Royal Davui: RoyalDavuiFigi.com Volcanoes Safaris: VolcanoesSafaris.com Six Senses Yao Noi: SixSenses.com Tourism Thailand: Tourismthailand.org Bike Tours Direct: BikeTours.com BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 151
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Wedding Etiquette Questions Answered By Dee Lane
Q: We had planned on sending thank you postcards after our wedding – they’re easy to make online, cheaper than traditional cards and we can use a photo from our wedding or honeymoon. But when my mother saw me ordering them online, she was appalled and told me that they were a horrible faux pas. Who’s right? I enjoy receiving those post cards; I’ve seen some that are especially wonderful, such as a couple on the beach with “Thank You!” written in the sand surrounded by a heart. While these are lovely, they do not and cannot replace a traditional thank you card. However, they do serve as a perfect stopgap between your wedding 152 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
day and the day when you finally get your thank you notes in the mail.
Q: I recently was invited to a wedding that included a registry link on the invitation to a website dedicated to helping them solicit funds to redo their home. To me this seems inappropriate. Do I have to give to that site or do I have another option? The thing about wedding registries that most people seem to forget—or never knew in the first place—is that they are only suggestions. If you’re invited to a wedding you should send or take a gift, but that present can be anything you choose. Registries, whether in store or online, are useful tools because
they allow the couple to let their guests know what they would prefer to use in their home as well as cutting down considerably on duplicate gifts. With online registries, especially those you can create yourself, come unlimited ways to ask for things. I have seen requests for funds to go toward honeymoons, hiring a surrogate and yes, home renovations. While I personally consider these tacky—they’re akin to asking your grandmother to just give you money for your birthday with the implication that she couldn’t possibly pick out something that you would enjoy—the use of them is growing exponentially. Postcard courtesy of Anna Zenk
As people wait longer to get married, often they already have joined their lives—and their possessions—for months if not years before their wedding. That means that many traditional gifts are unnecessary and often would duplicate items they already own. If you find yourself in this position, my recommendation is to give the couple a gift that’s in the same genre as their request, while keeping closer to a traditional present. Since you mentioned that they would like to renovate their home, perhaps a very nice set of tools along with a gift card to a home renovation chain? Or maybe a gift certificate for a whole house cleaning from a reputable cleaning service for after the renovation is complete? Or even a set of gift cards to local restaurants for use while their kitchen is unusable? Though you might hear some uncharitable feedback for this (unfortunately many couples see their registry as a checklist to be fulfilled, instead of being grateful for the gifts that their guests have so generously given), remember that what you’re giving is a gift and that weddings are incredibly stressful times, and let the comment go in one ear and out the other.
Q: I received an invitation to my cousin’s wedding, but she didn’t include “+1” on the invitation. She knows that I’ve been dating my boyfriend for over six months, so I figure I can just bring him with me, but my mom says no. What do you think? Creating a guest list might be the most stressful part of planning a wedding. Think of writing down a list of everyone you know and everyone your fiancé knows, then add everyone your parents know and his parents know, then add those extra family members, friends, co-workers and the vendors with whom you’re creating your big day. If you could stop there, you would already have the fear that you’d forgotten someone important. But even the most well-funded couples and their families cannot afford to include everyone. That means taking that huge list and whittling it down. The best way I’ve ever heard this process described is to think of your guest list like an onion. Each layer is a layer of friendships or family; immediate family in the center, then closest friends, then extended family, other friends, co-workers, and on and on. If you decide to include, or conversely cut, one person from a layer, then you must invite or discard all the people in that layer. All this to say that if your cousin knows of your relationship and didn’t include your boyfriend on your invitation, then she probably has a very good reason for doing so. If you feel like you cannot attend this wedding without your boyfriend, you can call your cousin and ask her to include him with your invitation. But please think very carefully before you do so; she’s most likely very stressed and asking her to add one more person could become an awkward conversation quickly. My advice is to attend your cousin’s wedding with another family member who’s company you enjoy and who has already received an invitation, and have a great time. n 154 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
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Check It Twice There’s a lot that goes into wedding planning, so don’t feel bad if you’re having a hard time keeping track of it all. Use our handy checklist to stay organized. 10-12 Months To Go __ You’re engaged! Make sure you celebrate with your fiancé, friends and family. __ Nail down the basics. Where are you getting married? Who’s paying for what? What is your budget? How many guests will be there? __ Alert the wedding party. Decide who you want in your wedding party and ask them as soon as you can. __ Pick the date. Check with your family members and wedding party before you make a final decision so there are no huge time conflicts.
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__ Find a wedding planner. If you’re planning on using a wedding planner, find one in the early stages. He or she will make all the craziness more manageable. __ Book your ceremony and reception location. Where you get married will affect a lot of your planning decisions, so reserving a place should be at the top of your to-do list. __ Insure your ring. Your engagement ring is special, but it’s also expensive. Make sure you get it insured, just in case. __ Book officiant. Make sure your preferred officiant has your wedding date on the calendar.
__ Write thank you notes for engagement gifts. You will most likely receive a few gifts right after your engagement. Send a thank you note for each gift within three months of receiving it. __ Take engagement photos. Book a session with a professional photographer so you have a few nice photos of you and your fiancé for save-the-dates, newspaper announcements and more. Some photographers will include an engagement shoot with a wedding package. __ Pick your colors. Think about your wedding colors and the overall look of your day. Are
Marianne Angeli Rodriguez illustration
you going for a classic look or trendy? Vintage or glamorous? Your color scheme will guide you through other big decisions, such as the bridesmaid dresses and the groomsmen’s ties.
6-9 Months To Go __ Interview and select vendors. Make sure you book the “big ticket” items, such as the photographer, the caterer, the florist and the entertainment, early. __ Send out save-the-dates. The typical rule on sending save-the-dates is six months before your wedding, but send them earlier if you’re inviting a lot of out-of-town guests so they can book flights. __ Go dress shopping. You need an appointment at most wedding boutiques, so call a few of your favorite stores to set up a time. __ Register. Register at two or three stores. Choose items at a variety of prices so everyone can find something they can afford. Add more gifts than you think you need so your friends and family have some options. __ Think about the rehearsal dinner. It’s customary that the groom’s parents host the rehearsal dinner. Talk to your future in-laws about possibilities. __ Schedule transportation. Book a limo, trolley or another form of transportation to shuttle your wedding party from the hotel to your ceremony location. Decide whether you need transportation for your guests to get from the reception to the hotel at the end of the reception. __ Plan your honeymoon. If you’re going out of the country for your trip, make sure you and your fiancé have up-to-date passports. __ Figure out your rentals. Rentals depend on the location of your wedding, but if you’re responsible for common rental items such as chairs and plates, make a list of everything you need and where you’re going to find each item. __ Book a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. If you’re not familiar with the hotel, ask a hotel representative to show you a room and don’t forget to inquire about a group rate. __ Order bridesmaid dresses. If your bridesmaids live far away, give them plenty of time to buy their dresses and get them fitted.
4-5 Months To Go __ Buy wedding bands. Shopping for
wedding bands is usually less stressful than shopping for an engagement ring, but carve out a time when you and your fiancé can go look together. __ Finalize the rehearsal dinner. Once you’ve decided on the location, book your rehearsal dinner. __ Reserve a wedding night hotel room. Where are you staying for the wedding night? If you’re not leaving for your honeymoon immediately after the reception, decide where you want to stay for the night. __ Get your dress fitted. Your wedding dress is one of the most important dresses you will wear in your life, so it should fit impeccably. Many brides plan up to three fittings. __ Decide on attire for the groom and groomsmen. Talk to your fiancé about what he wants to wear and what will match your overall color scheme. Keep the time of day in mind when researching options. __ Check in with your vendors. Make final decisions with your vendors and update them on new wedding information, such as when they should arrive. __ Order your wedding cake. Taste a few cakes before you decide on your final choice. Talk to your fiancé about a groom’s cake if he wants one.
2-3 Months To Go __ Mail out the invitations. Double-check with the post office that you have enough postage. Many wedding invitations require more than one stamp. __ Solidify the catering menu. Whether you’re doing heavy hors d’oeuvres or a sit-down meal, verify the final menu. __ Schedule your hair and makeup team. Find a good hair stylist and makeup artist to help you and your bridesmaids get ready for the day.
__ Get your marriage license. Head to the Orleans Parish Marriage License Office in Benson Tower (1450 Poydras St., Suite 407) for your marriage certificate. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. Visit dhh.louisiana.gov for requirements. __ Set up your second line. If you’re planning to second line at your wedding, you’re going to need a permit. Call the New Orleans Police Department Special Events Section at (504) 658-7100 to schedule everything 15 to 20 days before your wedding day. You can also email questions to specialevents@nola.gov. __ Practice your hair and makeup. It’s best to practice with your hair stylist and makeup artists ahead of time so there are no surprises on the big day. Plan your trial run for a day you want good hair, such as your bridal shower or bachelorette party. __ Finalize the guest list. Send a final headcount to your caterer and any other vendor who needs the number.
One Week Before __ Double-check with your vendors. Touch base with everyone one more time to remind them where to go and to answer any last-minute questions they might have. __ Remind friends and family of their responsibilities. Assign duties to your wedding party or other loved ones. Who is the contact for the photographer? Who is making sure all guests get a favor? __ Get a manicure and pedicure. This can be a great bonding experience with your bridesmaids, mom and future mother-in-law. __ Put together a welcome package. If you have a lot of guests traveling for your wedding, ask the hotel if you can put a welcome basket or bag in their hotel room for when they arrive.
The Wedding Day One Month Before __ Send your wedding party an itinerary. Make sure your family and friends know where and when to be for the wedding day so everyone shows up at the right place at the right time. __ Enjoy a facial. Everyone reacts differently to facials. If you’re planning on getting one, schedule it a few days before your wedding, or do a trial run months before.
__ Find a way to relax. Whether you go for a run or read a book in the morning, find a way to keep stress to a minimum. __ Make sure you eat something. Brides always say, “I never had time to eat anything!” Give yourself some time during the reception to have a bite. __ Have fun! You’ve made it through all the planning, now it’s time to celebrate. Enjoy your first day as a married woman. n BrideNewOrleans.com New Orleans Bride | 157
i n th is issu e The area code is 504, unless otherwise noted. Cover Floral headpiece by Megan Guip for Wilhelm-nyc, megan@ wilhelm-nyc.com
com. Scriptura, 3301 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, 504-219-1113, 5423 Magazine St., 504.897.1555 scriptura.com
Beauty, pg. 18 “Perfect Timing” Trashy Diva Lingerie, 2044 Magazine St., New Orleans, 504-522-5686, trashydiva.com. Audubon Dermatology, 3525 Prytania St. #501, New Orleans, 504-895-3376, audubondermatology.com. The Spa at Stone Creek, 1201 Ochsner Blvd., Covington, 985-801-7100, stonecreekclubandspa.com. Skin Science, 3213 17th St., Metairie, 504-309-7048, skinsciencellc.com. Simply Fit Gyms, 701 Metairie Road, Metairie, 504-8313009, simplyfitgym.com. Trainer To Go, 110 Athania Pkwy, Metairie, 504-994-3822, trainertogonola. com. Romney Pilates Center, 5619 Magazine St., New Orleans, 504-8951167, romneypilates.com.
Cakes, pg. 45 “Blossoming Confections” Haydel’s Bakery, 4037 Jefferson Hwy., Jefferson, 504-837-0190, haydelbakery.com. The Kupcake Factory, 504-464-8884, thekupcakefactory.com. Maurice French Pastries, 3501 Hessmer Ave., Metairie, 504-885-1526, mauricefrenchpastries.com
Hair, pg. 22 “Hairapy” Studio E in Metairie, 819 Canal St., New Orleans, 504-525-3096, studio-e-salon.com. Makeup, pg. 26 “Weather proof your makeup” About Face, 3441 E Causeway Approach, Mandeville, 985-7271887, aboutfaceco.com. Make Up by Meggan, 504-473-7263, makeupbymeggan.com. Eye Do Makeup Artistry, Suzette Stuprich, 504-9059255, eyedomakeup.webs.com. Wink Eyelash Bar & Makeup Studio, 911 Veterans Blvd. Suite 208, Metairie, 504-459-9465, thedailywink.com. Invitations, pg. 37 “Sweet Suite” Gem Printing, 1904 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 504-8311762, gemprinting.com. Abbey Printing, 429 Wall Blvd., Gretna, 504-392-7774, abbeyprinting.com. Stationery Studio, 2910 Toulouse St., New Orleans, 504-581-7248, stationery-studio.com. Exquisite Events, 610 S Peters St., New Orleans, 504-975-4089, eeinvites. 158 | New Orleans Bride Winter-Spring 2015
Jewelry, pg. 51 “Shimmer and Shine” Boudreaux’s Jewelers, Old Metairie Village Shopping Center, 701 Metairie Rd, Metairie, 504-8312602, boudreauxsjewelers.com. Symmetry Jewelers & Designs, 8138 Hampson St. 504-861-9925, symmetry-jewelers.com, Wellington & Company Fine Jewelry, 505 Royal St., 504-525-4855, wcjewelry. com. Tiffany and Co., 333 Canal St., 504-434-6002, tiffany.com. Friend and Company, 7713 Maple St., 504-866-5433, friendandcompany. com. M. S. Rau Antiques, 630 Royal St., 504-523-5660, rauantiques.com Bridesmaids, pg. 59 “Setting the Tone” Linda Lee Bridal, 3848 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, 504-889-1889. Olivier Couture, 1901 U.S. 190 #24, Mandeville, 985-674-6994, oliviercouture.com. Bustles & Bows, 3230 Severn Ave., Metairie, 504-780-7090, bustlesandbowsbridal.com. Southern Bridal, 1200 W Causeway Approach #9, Mandeville, 985-727-2993, southernbridal.net. The Bridal Boutique by MaeMe, 3331 Severn Ave. #102, Metairie, 504-266-2771, mae-me. com. Wedding Belles, 3632 Magazine St., New Orleans, 504-891-1005, weddingbellesstationer.com. Pearl’s Place, 3114 Severn Ave., Metairie, 504-885-9213, pearlsplace.com. Fashion/Flowers/Menswear/ Jewelry, pg. 65 “Love In Bloom”
Flowers: Kim Starr Wise Floral Events, 2032 Adams St., 504-3155607 kimstarrwise.com. Fabulous Flowers, 504-909-0253, Le Grand the Florist, 537 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna, 504-362-5757. Poppy & Mint, 504-338-9168, poppyandmintfloral. com. Bee’s, Wedding and Event Floral Designs, 738 Phosphor Ave., Metairie, 504-830-4031, beesweddingdesigns. com Jewelry: Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers, 5700 Veterans Blvd, Metairie, 504-885-4653, ramseys.com. Mignon Faget, multiple locations mignonfaget.com Menswear: Ladies & Gents Formal Wear, 708 Interstate 10 Service Rd., Slidell, 985-643-9449, ladiesgentsformalwear.com. John’s Tuxedos Inc., 3200 Houma Blvd, Metairie, 504-455-5353, johnstuxedos. com, Tuxedos to Geaux, 3400 16th St., Metairie, 504-455-5393, tuxedostogeaux.com. Rome’s Tuxedos, 3213 17th St., Metairie, 504-324-7227, romestuxedos.com Photography, pg. 98 “Picture Perfect” Art de Vie, 1504 Lynnette Dr., Metairie, 504-592-3522, artedevie. com. Caitlin B. Photography, 678-428-9557, info@caitlinbphotography.com, caitlinbphotography. com. Eau Claire Photographics, 641 N Alexander St., New Orleans, 504-432-7879, eauclairephotographics.com. Roddy Orgeron Photography, 2323 Chartres St., New Orleans, 985-956-0098, neworleansphotographers.com. Locations, pg. 102 “A Sense of Place” Bevolo Museum, 318 Royal St., New Orleans, 504-552-4311, bevolo.com. Southern Oaks Plantation, 7816 Hayne Blvd., New Orleans, 504-2458221, southernoaksplantation.com. Hyatt French Quarter, 800 Iberville St., New Orleans, 504-586-0800, frenchquarter.hyatt.com. Fulton Alley, 600 Fulton St., New Orleans, 504-208-5569, fultonalley.com. Il Mercato, 504-827-2400. Messina’s at the Terminal, 6001 Stars and Stripes Blvd., New Orleans, 504-469-7373, messinasterminal.com. Maison Lafitte,
402 Lafitte St., Mandeville, 985-7782045, maison-lafitte.com Broussard’s, 819 Conti St., New Orleans, 504-5813866, broussards.com. National WWII Museum, 985 Magazine St., New Orleans, 504-528-1944, nationalww2museum.org. The Chicory, 610 S Peters St., New Orleans, 504-521-8055, thechicoryvenue.com. Food, pg. 110 “Local Flavor” Tivoli & Lee at Hotel Modern, 2 Lee Circle, New Orleans, 504-962-0909, tivoliandlee.com. Hyatt Regency New Orleans, 601 Loyola Ave., New Orleans, 504-561-1234, neworleans. hyatt.com. Nolavore Prepared Foods & Catering Company, 504-9143161, nolavore@gmail.com. Sylvain Restaurant 625 Chartres St., New Orleans, 504-265-8123, sylvainnola. com. Meauxbar, 942 N Rampart St., New Orleans, 504-569-9979, meauxbar.com. NOLA Brewing, 3001 Tchoupitoulas St., New Orleans, 504-896-9996, nolabrewing. com. Bayou Teche, 1106 Bushville Hwy, Arnaudville, 337-303-8000, bayoutechebrewing.com. Music, pg. 114 “Let’s Dance” Omega Sound & Entertainment, 1441 Fremaux Ave., Slidell, 985-9666378, omegasounddjs.com. Transportation, pg. 116 “Get Them to the Church” Big Easy Limos, 11 W 23rd St., Kenner, 504-466-4477, bigeasylimos. com. Bonomolo Limousines, 1401 Lafitte Ave., New Orleans, 504-5610000, bonolimo.com. Honeymoon, pg. 148 “Just Do It” Honeymoon Ideas: Virtuoso.com, Singita: Singita.com, Micato Safaris: Micato.com, St. Lucia: StLuciaNow. com, Costa Rica: VisitCostaRica.com, Royal Davui: RoyalDavuiFigi.com, Volcanoes Safaris: VolcanoesSafaris. com, Six Senses Yao Noi: SixSenses.com, Tourism Thailand: Tourismthailand.org, Bike Tours Direct: BikeTours.com n
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Next Day 911 New Orleans has been known to get the best of even the most experienced revelers. In the words of notable tippler Ben Franklin, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When that fails, offer your guests this cheeky, but helpful Hangover Kit.
Drinking: know your limit! And don’t forget to eat enough food to absorb the alcohol.