Weddings Spring 2020 by repubnews

s g n i Wedd SPRING 2020

SEASONAL & LOCAL CUISINE An interview with Blue Door Gatherings

GREEN WEDDINGS A couple’s guide to a more environmentally friendly wedding.

“I DO”

LOCAL COUPLES. REAL WEDDINGS.

An inside look at several local couples and their wedding day details

YOUR DAY + YOUR WAY

WE COMMIT TO YOU

Experience Our First Class Service Whether you choose the Log Cabin or our tented Upper Vista you are guaranteed to have the wedding of your dreams! The Log Cabin venue sits on the top of the scenic Mt. Tom with breathtaking views of the valley. Our ballroom offers a private outdoor ceremony site and terrace. Upper Vista sits on the highest peak of the property and provides unforgettable views of the Pioneer Valley.

500 Easthampton Road | Holyoke, MA | thelogcabin.com

BOOK TODAY: 413-535-5077

Whether your wedding is large or small, you will experience the warmth and intimacy of elegant dining with your family and friends. Be treated like royalty. • Complete banquet facilities • Complimentary private bridal suites • Expert catering for up to 700 people

www.castleofknights.com 1599 Memorial Drive, Chicopee, MA • 413-532-2000 • 1-866-66-CASTLE Easily accessible from Rte. I-91, I-291 and Mass Pike Exit 5

TABLE OF

CONTENTS Spring 2020

11 13 19

Seasonal & Local Cuisine An interview with Blue Door Gatherings

Couples Answer The most unique element at your wedding

Green Weddings Environmentally friendly advice from Aligned Events from Northampton, MA

Décor Rentals You don’t have to buy it all... a guide for what and where to rent what you need!

Bridal Shower Themes Unique ideas for every bride-to-be!

“I do”

13 On the cover: Sophia and Ricky Passarelli on their wedding day, May 4, 2019. Photo by Melissa Stimpson Photography.

Local Couples. Real Weddings. An inside look at local couples and their wedding day details

Wedding Checklist Making sure no detail for your special day goes unnoticed!

Weddings STAFF

Publisher and CEO George Arwady garwady@repub.com

Advertising Director Mark A. French mfrench@repub.com

UniqueVenues

LOOKING FOR SOMEWHERE OUT OF THE ORDINARY FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT OR MEETING?

Springﬁeld Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management is proud to share these unique venues right in the heart of Springﬁeld.

Advertising Sales Manager

Whether you’re looking for an inspiring location to host a private special event or a corporate meeting or retreat, we offer 3 unique venues.

Fran Smith fsmith@repub.com

Creative Lead

Curtis Panlilio cpanlilio@repub.com

Immerse your guests in old world elegance brought to life by the Carriage House at the Barney Estate, surrounded by the natural beauty of Forest Park.

Design

Michelle Johnson mjohnson@repub.com

Local Content

THE CARRIAGE HOUSE AT THE BARNEY ESTATE

Allison Litera

Weddings is published by The Republican. Our offices are at 1860 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103. All advertising is subject to the terms and conditions of the Weddings rate card, and all advertising submitted is subject to the approval of the Publisher. The Publisher reserves the right to cancel an advertising order or reject or edit any advertising copy or images. The Republican Co. shall not be liable for incorrect ad placement. Liability for failure to publish an ad shall not exceed a refund of or credit for the original price of the ad. Liability for an error will not exceed the cost of space for the section the error occupies. Credit will be allowed for the first insertion only. Advertisers should check ads upon publication. The contents of this publication are copyrighted 2020 The Republican Co. All rights reserved. No portion of Weddings may be reproduced in any form without the consent of the Publisher.

Stay focused on the moment amidst the rustic, historic charm of Emma’s Place on Wilder Pond, a homey atmosphere with breathtaking treetop and aquatic views. Or, breathe in the outdoor splendor of King Philip’s Stockade Pavilions, an outdoor venue, surrounded by winding paths and lush forestlands.

EMMA’S PLACE ON WILDER POND

we look forward to helping you discover the natural beauty outside your door.

KING PHILIP’S STOCKADE PAVILIONS

call us at 413-787-7733 to schedule your private tour for more information visit barneycarriagehouse.com

DreamWeddings Start Here Aleksandr Verbetsky Photography

413-566-5158 | WWW.thestartinggate.com

e n i s i u C

SEASONAL AND LOCAL

BY BLUE DOOR GATHERINGS

Photos courtesy of Blue Door Gatherings.

By Allison Litera

SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN

HOW DID YOUR COOKING CAREER BEGIN? I began cooking in professional kitchens in high school, however, initially I was not in love with the commercial kitchen environment. I grew up cooking alongside my mother and grandmother and I craved a more intimate cooking environment. I pursued culinary school after high school. It was there that I was exposed to different types of restaurants and it was there that I fell in love with the restaurant culture. My love for food and wine evolved during school when I cooked in restaurants and wineries in the Hudson Valley and Napa. WHERE ARE YOUR INGREDIENTS SOURCED FROM? My primary mission at Blue Door

Gatherings is to thoughtfully select our ingredients. When we send our sample menus to potential clients, we always include a list of local farms and artisan makers that contribute to the menu. It makes such a difference when you know the farmer, baker, winemaker or cheesemaker. It fosters community relationships and keeps the quality exceptional. At Blue Door Gatherings our proteins, dairy and produce are carefully sourced from local Massachusetts farms that share our food philosophy. I also enjoy seeking out local artisan pantry products from around New England, such as vinegars, coffee, chocolate, and spices, to include on all of our menus. In addition, I am especially enthusiastic about supporting other women-owned and operated businesses whenever possible.

IS THERE A MIN/MAX NUMBER OF GUESTS THAT YOU CATER TO? I enjoy a variety of events. I use the term ‘intimate’ because regardless of whether the event is 10 people or 100 people or 300 people our goal and expectation is that every guest feels taken care of. It is important that our client’s vision is translated to each of their guests. Although Blue Door Gatherings is moving in the direction of catering mostly weddings, we will always cater memorials, business events, reunions, milestone birthdays, and a variety of other special events. I am also passionate about hosting wine dinners and themed pop-up events – they are my favorite creative outlet. WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO COOKING & FOOD? I strive for simplicity – the Alice Waters approach to cooking. Farmers

in western MA work so hard to grow beautiful products. Our job is to elevate and show off those flavors, not to cover them up. WHY “BLUE DOOR”? Throughout the years I have accumulated countless pictures of blue doors during my travels. My travels and food experiences are marked by blue doors from the French Laundry in Yountville, California to Paris, France to Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Most importantly the blue doors on my childhood home were the passageway to our family kitchen. My food is both a reflection of my travels and my home in Massachusetts. My hope is that whether I come through your door or you pass through mine, that Blue Door Gatherings can provide you with an unforgettable dining experience. HOW DO YOU STAFF AN EVENT? Currently all of our events are staffed per diem by industry professionals looking to work in a fast-paced environment. As we grow and become busier, however, we will be looking to hire a part-time seasonal staff. I feel very fortunate that so many young, motivated individuals, especially women, want to work for Blue Door Gatherings. I feel very inspired by them and love providing a space for them to work and thrive in this industry. WHAT ARE SOME FUN/UNIQUE FOOD OFFERINGS? I want clients to have menus that are curated to their vision and taste. I am always re-writing and re-inventing our menus. I don’t want clients to have the same wedding menu as another client. Each event should be unique and personal to the clients. However, there are some favorites that I can’t seem to shake, like the purple sweet potato empanadas! I think catering gets a bad reputation because the food often feels tired and out of date. Whenever you cater to a large crowd you are challenged by having to create dishes that appeal to the majority. My family and friends are the perfect taste-testers and they are exceptionally honest! Lately, I am excited about my duck fat madeleines, roasted local delicate squash, and buttermilk chocolate cake. WHAT IS YOUR AVERAGE COST FOR A WEDDING? WHAT DO COSTS DEPEND ON? Our pricing for events is very much

case-by-case. It is a large reason why we request our potential clients to fill out an event questionnaire when they first reach out to us. The cost of the event is driven by the number of guests, service style (buffet/family style/plated), menu size and location. Typically, clients spend $50-66/pp for buffets, $65-80/pp for family and $90+/pp for plated. When clients are considering caterers for their wedding, we encourage them to set up a private tasting in our kitchen or join us for one of our events to experience our style, food, and service. I want potential clients to understand that they are not only paying for the cost of the food. Our pricing is reflective of the service, attention to detail, and work that leads up to the event. ABOUT BLUE DOOR GATHERINGS

Laura Bowman

I am the proprietor of Blue Door Gatherings. This company was a dream of mine in culinary school. Never did I imagine for it to be my day-to-day work right out of school. I feel very lucky to work for myself and have a platform for my creativity. I am so excited to grow my business in different directions!

s e l p cou answer

WHAT WAS THE MOST UNIQUE/PERSONALIZED ELEMENT AT YOUR WEDDING? Compiled by Allison Litera SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN

“I custom made the graphic for our selfie booth background that was a comic book cityscape and our pie toppers were Batgirl and Green Lantern.” - Coleen D. “Our pre-ceremony music. Almost all of our songs were hand-picked. All of our music choices were deeply personal including my walk down the aisle which was sort of a joke between us.” - Kyle and Joanna H.

“Each of our guests had a table card that had a silhouette of an iconic Disney couple, with a love quote from the corresponding movie on the back! I designed them myself, and each person at the table had a completely different card from the other people they were sitting with.” - Nicolle M.

“We had a choir of our students sing at the ceremony! (Jacqueline is a music teacher.) And our guest book was an old guitar we painted!” - Jacqueline T.

“A graphic recording mural [made for us by Caricatures & Fine Art by Allie Wanda]!” - Liz W. “Custom Heinz ketchup and mustard labels that said ‘A Perfect Pair.’” - Chrissy K. “Our favors were small mason jars filled with tea that was blended specifically for our wedding. It was a fun little favor and we had labels on the top with our wedding date and names.” - Kate B.

“Our [custom] cake topper; made by a dear friend of ours! - Bailly C. “We had cocktail napkins made that were super cute – they said ‘Best Day Ever’ and had our names and wedding date.” - Chenoa M.

DID YOU KNOW

IN ANCIENT ROME, BRIDES CARRIED OR WORE FLOWER GARLANDS BECAUSE THE ROMANS BELIEVED FLOWERS SIGNIFIED HOPE, FERTILITY AND NEW BEGINNINGS. FLOWERS ALSO SERVED ANOTHER PRACTICAL PURPOSE. IN ERAS WHEN BATHING WAS A LUXURY, DIFFERENT FLOWERS AND HERBS HELPED MASK BODY ODORS.

3127620-01

IT WASN’T UNTIL THE VICTORIAN ERA, WHEN FLOWERS WERE USED TO SYMBOLIZE ROMANTIC LOVE, THAT THEY BECAME PART OF WEDDING CEREMONIES.

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R. Scott Smith, D.M.D.

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n ee r g s g n i dd we

WITH ALIGNED EVENTS

HOW TO HAVE AN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY EVENT by Allison Litera

SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN

WHERE DO YOU GET INSPIRATION FROM WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR WEDDING DESIGN AESTHETIC? When gathering inspiration for a client’s design I always start with the couple. I ask them to describe their relationship and share what their priorities are for their wedding. That, along with their color palette, and sense of style usually forms the basis of my approach to their design. The other predominate factors are the location and time of year. I always want the wedding design to make sense with the setting. If we are planning a June wedding at a historical estate it’s going to look different than the design for a September rustic camp wedding. HOW HAS ALIGNED EVENTS ADOPTED A SUSTAINABLE VIEW ON WEDDINGS? WHAT

GOT YOU INTERESTED IN THIS METHODOLOGY/PHILOSOPHY? Having a sustainable view on weddings was part of the founding mission of Aligned Events. Before starting this company, my career had always been a blend of planning weddings and events and working in sustainable food systems - so it was a natural fit. Even though I adore weddings on their own, it was important to me that Aligned Events connect to a larger mission and set of values. With the climate crisis we are facing, I believe that a necessary part of being a business owner is being a responsible environmental steward it’s not really an option anymore. WHAT KINDS OF SUSTAINABLE CHOICES DO YOU RECOMMEND TO YOUR BRIDES AND GROOMS FOR: DRESSES/FORMAL WEAR? If a couple is interested in sustainability in relation to their attire, I first point them in the direction of local or online

Photo courtesy of Jen Menard Photography

shops that sell preowned wedding attire. Other great options are vintage dresses (the collection on Etsy alone is amazing!) and dress/attire rental companies for honor attendants. If preowned isn’t a good fit there are so many designers these days offering dresses and attire made with organic materials. In addition to the fabric, many companies are invested in using non-toxic dyes, minimal packaging, renewable power sources, and responsible labor practices. DÉCOR? I’m a huge fan of online marketplaces. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are great to connect locally, and Bravo Bride and Tradesy are great national platforms. Most clients I work with want to sell their decor after the wedding and there are so many online resources to sell and buy. For couples looking to take on DIY projects, I usually advise them to first ask family and friends and their venue or event planner (if they’re working with one). Recently married friends may have items they want to give away or sell. (I know a group of friends where the couples got married a few months apart and all used the same set of lawn games – they just split the cost!) Venues and event planners often have wedding decor that they’ve collected that they’d be willing to let a couple

use or rent. The goal with all of this is to reduce the amount of new materials and encourage reusing items that in most cases, have literally only been used once. EVENT SPACE? For couples who want to ensure their event space is mindful of the environment I think it’s important to ask if they recycle. Composting is not a common practice at most event venues yet, so if yours does, amazing! If you want to cut down on single use plastics it’s always okay to ask to not have bottled water, or disposable plastic cups and utensils. If you’re getting married at a nonvenue (a private home, barn, field, etc.) and you’re planning it yourself, it’s important to make a plan for environmental responsibility from the beginning. This isn’t most people’s top priority when planning a wedding (which makes sense!) but a little goes a long way. Consider bamboo or compostable wares if you’re not using glassware, and look into cute beverage dispensers instead of bottled water. Make sure to have enough trash cans that you can recycle – and then have a plan for that recycling! To take it a step further, there are some great local companies that will set you up with composting services for a one-day event which will have a huge impact on

your environmental footprint. FAVORS? I hate to burst any bubbles by saying this, but the majority of favors go to waste. I see it all the time as a planner – I often end up giving clients a good amount of their favors back from guests forgetting to take them. For couples that don’t have a preference on favors, I generally recommend a small charitable donation that is important to them in lieu of favors or skipping them all together (and maybe spending that money on extra dessert for their guests instead). For couples who really want a favor, I generally recommend something edible and local, like honey or maple syrup. A small plant or seed packets are also popular, and mindful ways to gift your guests and say thank you. WHAT DO YOU FEEL IS THE MOST WASTEFUL PART OF A WEDDING? HOW CAN WE WORK TO CHANGE THIS? The biggest area I see room for improvement in the wedding industry is in how we handle what’s left over at the end of a wedding. I worked in the industry for 15 years before starting my business and the number of fresh flowers and food (among other things) that I’ve seen thrown out is heartbreaking. At one time it was

enough to make me reconsider working in this industry long term… until I realized it doesn’t have to be this way. At most weddings, things get thrown out because there is no plan for them. No one asked for the leftover food and cake or for them to be donated, so the caterer has to get rid of what they can’t use or is left over. Flower arrangements that aren’t getting reused for a Sunday brunch or taken by the guests have to get thrown out. What I realized is that this waste is rarely intentional. Vendors and clients want to do the responsible thing, but they either don’t have the resources or didn’t consider it in advance. For couples who are planning their wedding on their own I always encourage them to: ask the caterer or venue what happens to the leftover food. Ask them to take the leftover food if you’d like it or have it donated. For flowers, I always encourage clients to think ahead on what they want to happen to their flowers. Have the DJ make an announcement at the end of the night for guests to take the arrangements (if you own

the vases), or take them home and enjoy a few more days of beautiful wedding floral. Additionally, we offer clients the choice for us to repurpose their leftover floral and donate it to a local hospital, nursing home, or shelter. IF A COUPLE ISN’T HAVING A 100% “GREEN” WEDDING, BUT ARE STILL A BIT CONSCIOUS OF MAKING AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT, WHAT ARE SOME SMALL ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY CHANGES THEY CAN MAKE? There are tons of changes that can make a big difference. Choose 100% recycled paper for invitations if going paperless isn’t your thing. Offer bus transportation to cut down on the number of cars. Consider seasonality in planning your menu with your caterer, and maybe consider non red-meat protein options. Work with a florist who has sustainable growing practices and opt for flowers that match the season and our local habitat.

OVERALL, WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HAVE A “GREEN” WEDDING? OR CONSIDER A “GREEN” WEDDING? I think we’re fully realizing as a society the impact we’ve had on our environment. “Green” concepts that were once fringe are mainstream and becoming the new normal (reusable water bottles, bans on plastic bags, city composting, ridesharing, solar power, etc.). I think a “green” wedding is just a wedding where we give the same environmental consideration that we have in our everyday lives. So, more than I think it’s important to have a “green” wedding or not, it’s important to extend your values to your wedding day. As vendors, I think it’s important that we also realize that this is where the world is heading. Younger generations that have been born into the throws of our climate crisis are going to expect us to not only produce beautiful and stylish weddings, but to have strong ethical

and environmental backbones. Our industry is unique. Most of the time, clients never see the waste that comes from weddings, so it’s up to us to hold ourselves accountable. HERE ARE A FEW MORE EASY SUGGESTIONS: • Swap plastic one-use wares for biodegradable/compost-able (or get rid of single use all together!). • Instead of individual programs and escort cards, consider one central sign or seating chart • Purchase beverage dispensers instead of single plastic bottled beverages • Rent extra linen napkins instead of paper • Consider kegs instead of bottled beer ABOUT ALIGNED EVENTS My name is Shannon and I am the owner and lead event planner for Aligned Events, which is based out of

Northampton, MA. I am a Springfield, MA native and returned to the Pioneer Valley in 2016 after many years working in the wedding and sustainability industries in Boston and Portland, ME. Aligned Events was formed out of a desire to build a full-service bespoke wedding and event planning company that fuses style and substance. Our guiding principles are support for local businesses, encouraging sustainable and mindful choices, and philanthropy in the local community.

Shannon Cruise Owner & Lead Planner, Aligned Events LLC 413.563.7190 hello@alignedevents.net www.alignedevents.net

Rustic Elegance

Book your Shower before January 31 and receive a 10% discount

he Barn at Wight Farm is the picture-perfect choice for a Sturbridge wedding and reception. The Barn offers couples a rustic elegance unmatched in the area. The Barn is a fully renovated post and beam structure hosting receptions up to 175. Our new Alpheus Wight room is ideal for brides VHHNLQJ D FOLPDWH FRQWUROOHG RQ VLWH FHUHPRQ\ DQG DOVR RIIHUV D UXVWLF IHHO ZLWK D Ă RRU UHFRYHUHG IURP an old New England mill. The Alpheus Wight room is also a great choice for your shower or rehearsal dinner. The Barn and the Alpheus Wight room are set on nearly four acres of manicured grounds LQ D FRORQLDO YLOODJH VHWWLQJ ZKLFK LQFOXGHV D SDWLR Ă&#x20AC;UH SLW DQG JD]HER $ VSDFLRXV EULGDO VXLWH LQ The Barn is included with all weddings which provides the bridal party the opportunity to have pre-wedding photographs and a beautiful setting to start the most important day in any coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life.

420 Main Street | Sturbridge, MA 01566 | 774.241.8450 | thebarnatwightfarm.com | facebook.com/thebarnatwightfarm TABLE 3 RESTAURANT GROUP

IMAGINE A WEDDING AS EXTRAORDINARY AS YOUR LOVE Hadley Farms Meeting House can accommodate up to 250 of your closest family and friends! Indoor and outdoor ceremony options. Wedding Packages start at $50pp. You will love our Brunch & Bubbly Menu for your Bridal Shower! Variety of menus available. 413-387-0811 or Sales@pvhg.com

WWW.HADLEYFARMSMEETINGHOUSE.COM

décor rentals

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BUY IT ALL! By Allison Litera

SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN

All too many times I have seen friends splurge on hundreds of dollars’ worth of candle holders, specialty linens, twinkle lights, and “Mr. & Mrs.” signs that will never be used again.

Since I am planning my own wedding, I have been doing my fair share of research and have found that there are a good handful of rental companies in western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut that offer décor rentals.

HERE ARE SOME OF THE MOST COMMON ITEMS COUPLES BUY, BUT COULD ACTUALLY RENT: • Candle holders • Glassware • Specialty linens (think sparkly tablecloths or linens your venue wouldn’t normally offer) • Pipe and drape • Specialty lighting (string lights, lanterns, marquee letters) • Napkin rings • Charger plates • Lanterns/terrariums • Signage • Cake/dessert stands

THE BORROWED TEACUP

Leverett, MA theborrowedteacup.com Best bet for: anything antique

SO LOVED WEDDING DÉCOR

South Windsor, CT Solovedweddingdecor.wixsite. com/rentals Best bet for: signage, centerpieces

MICHAEL’S PARTY RENTALS

Palmer, MA michaelspartyrentals.com Best bet for: specialty lighting

JEROME’S PARTY PLUS

Westfield, MA jeromespartyplus.com Best bet for: tents, concession machines (think cotton candy, popcorn, sno-cones)

ROYAL RENTALS

Springfield, MA loveofparties.com/vendor/royalrentals Best bet for: specialty linens, backdrops

For a match made in Heaven… have your ceremony in Paradise!

And here are local rental companies to consider!

INJE EVENT RENTALS

Based in Western MA Find them on Instagram @ injeevents Best bet for: unique/colored flatware, dishes, glassware, and table settings

VALLEY EVENT RENTALS

281 Greenfield Road, Routes 5 & 10 0 South Deerfield, MA 01373 413.665.2805

www.magicwings.com

02286316

Westfield, MA Find them on Instagram @ valleyeventrentalsne Best bet for: golden arch backdrop, large marquee letters

bridal s e m e h t r e show

By Allison Litera

SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN

Planning a bridal shower can be one of the most fun events aside from your wedding! If you aren’t too keen on having a themed wedding, feel free to let loose and infuse your bridal shower with your personality and interests. Traditional brides will find that there are plenty of ways to express themselves through their shower. So, let’s start planning!

FLANNEL AND FROST

Best held in the colder months (November – February), encourage guests to wear their coziest and cutest flannel getups. Decorate with pinecones, holly berries, frosted candles, and wood slabs for a woodland chic affair. Award prizes for the most festive getups!

CONSIDER THE HOLIDAYS

Will your bridal shower occur near a holiday? A Valentine’s Day soiree is the ultimate love-fest. Love Halloween? Class it up with pumpkins and apples and maybe even invite guests to dress in costume or provide spooky accessories. A Thanksgiving-themed shower can focus on giving thanks to the important ladies in your life who are joining you for your bridal shower.

CO-ED

This is for those who want to include everyone in the bridal festivities! Consider inviting family only so it doesn’t get too out of control or feel too much like a casual wedding reception.

POP OF COLOR

Focus on one color and run with it! Envision an all-white or all-pink shower.

VEILS AND COCKTAILS

KENTUCKY DERBY

PARISIAN BRUNCH

BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S

If brunch isn’t your thing, have a swanky cocktail-themed shower in the evening. Not a drinker? Research mocktail recipes galore. Think macarons, stripes, pops of pink, and baskets of flowers with ribbons. Just make sure it isn’t like that scene in Bridesmaids where Kristen Wiig karate kicks a giant heart-shaped cookie.

Is your bridal shower in May? A Kentucky Derby theme is a great time if you want to up the dress code with fancy hats and sundresses. Encourage guests to dress in their best Holly Golightly getup and deck it out with décor in Tiffany blue. Don’t forget to supply the pearls!

BEACH

Bring the beach to your guests with a nautical-themed shower. Decorate with starfish, mermaids, seashells, and other seafaring details.

WINERY/BREWERY

For those who aren’t too keen on a bridal shower in the morning hours, opt for an afternoon fete with appetizers and a potluck. Paint wine glasses or pint glasses for fun after you partake in a tasting.

FAMOUS COUPLES

Disney, English literature, celebrities…. get creative!

BOHEMIAN BACKYARD BASH

If you’re more of a boho bride, opt for casual details like macramé hangings, candles, multicolored vases full of wildflowers, and strung-up patio lights.

CARNIVAL

Entertain guests with a candy bar, midway games, and colorful decorations like balloons and streamers.

� Seats up to 250 Guests � Full Sit-Down & Buffet Style Menu � Spectacular View � Fully Handicapped Accessible � Great for Jack & Jills, Weddings, Showers � State Of The Art Audio/Video Systems � Newly Remodeled Banquet Hall � Indoor & Outdoor Ceremonies � Free Customizable Uplighting

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“

I do

LOCAL COUPLES. REAL WEDDINGS.

SOPHIA & RICKY

i ll e r a Pass

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS MAY 4, 2019 ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE PASSARELLI WEDDING BY MELISSA STIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY

BRIDE: Sophia LeMarie GROOM: Ricky Passarelli AGES: 30 OCCUPATIONS: Physician (Sophia), Engineer (Ricky) CEREMONY: Holy Name Church, 323 Dickinson Street, Springfield RECEPTION: The Starting Gate at GreatHorse, 128 Wilbraham Road, Hampden, MA INVITATIONS: Vistaprint FLOWERS: Badger’s Flowers & Co, Northampton, MA BRIDE’S DRESS: Labella Bridal Boutique, Occoquan, VA (brand – David Tutera) CATERER: The Starting Gate at GreatHorse MUSIC: Steven Grindle of Steve G. Productions, Longmeadow, MA VIDEOGRAPHER: Matthew Elton of Spark & Foster Films GROOM’S SUIT: Suit Supply CAKE: Pete’s Sweets, East Longmeadow, MA BRIDESMAID DRESSES: BirdyGrey, BHLDN RINGS: Tiny Jewel Box, Washington, DC HAIR/MAKEUP: Crystal Vasquez & Company, Easthampton, MA FIRST DANCE SONG: “The Luckiest” by Ben Folds MEMORABLE MOMENT: Traditional Ghanian drummers played at both the ceremony and reception, where the drums resounded off of the western Mass hillside as we greeted guests. OTHER/NOTES: The rehearsal dinner was hosted on the center court of the Basketball Hall of Fame. Attendees could tour the exhibits and shoot around beside the meal and between toasts. The bride and groom, being basketball fans with a healthy sense of competition, even played a round of hoops themselves.

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e l a d n a V RACHEL + CHRIS

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS SEPTEMBER 28, 2019 ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE VANDALE WEDDING BY MELISSA STIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY

NAMES: Chris + Rachel Vandale AGES: Chris: 31, Rachel: 30 OCCUPATIONS: Christopher Vandale, Director of Continuing Studies at Dean College. Rachel Vandale, Human Resources Specialist at Dean College CEREMONY/RECEPTION: T he Log Cabin 500 Easthampton Road Holyoke, MA INVITATIONS: The Gathering Station, thegatheringstation.com FLOWERS: The Botaniste, Easthampton, MA BRIDE’S DRESS: Rebecca Schoneveld (dress style is “marni”; top piece of dress is called “Simone”) VEIL: borrowed from one of bridesmaids CATERER: The Log Cabin MUSIC: Absolute Entertainment, West Springfield, MA WEDDING PLANNER: Nicole Paolucci GROOM’S SUIT: The Black Tux CAKE: The Log Cabin BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Hayley Paige Occasions RINGS: Pucci’s Diamonds and Fine Jewelry, West Boylston, MA HAIR: Cassey Wilson MAKEUP: William Gomes FIRST DANCE SONG: “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers MEMORABLE MOMENT: The heartfelt speeches by our friends and family THEME: Celestial, Romantic

ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE VANDALE WEDDING BY MELISSA STIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY

n a b a r a B INNA + ALEX

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS JUNE 8, 2019 ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE BARABAN WEDDING BY ALEKSANDR VERBETSKY PHOTOGRAPHY

NAMES: Alex Baraban & Inna Sergeychik CEREMONY: The United Congregational Church of Holyoke, MA RECEPTION: Colonial Hotel, Gardner, MA FLOWERS: Vozik Floral & Event Styling, Agawam, MA BRIDE’S SHOES: Badgley Mischka CATERER: Colonial Hotel Gardner, MA MUSIC: Vadim Loban GROOM’S SUIT: Zara CAKE: Aunty Ellen’s Creative Confections, Leominster, MA HAIR: Lena Bucalova MAKEUP: Katie Sheremet, Westfield, MA MEMORABLE MOMENT: “The sparkler exit at the end of our reception. It was perfect!” THEME: Elegant, classy, timeless OTHER/NOTES: Mini session at Mount Waschusett community college campus

ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE BARABAN WEDDING BY ALEKSANDR VERBETSKY PHOTOGRAPHY

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a g u y l e h Panc ALISA + ALEXANDER

ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE PANCHELYUGA WEDDING BY ALEKSANDR VERBETSKY PHOTOGRAPHY

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS OCTOBER 21, 2018 ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE PANCHELYUGA WEDDING BY ALEKSANDR VERBETSKY PHOTOGRAPHY

NAMES: Alexander Panchelyuga & Alisa Grusetchi

CEREMONY/RECEPTION: The Riverview, Simsbury, MA FLOWERS: Evergreen Florist

BRIDE’S DRESS: Pearl Bridal Boutique, Holyoke, MA VIDEOGRAPHER: Eric Mustsevoy

GROOM’S SUIT: Men’s Wearhouse CAKE: The Riverview

BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Vera Wang PHOTO BOOTH: Alex Podupchuk

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IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS AUGUST 24, 2019 ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE BONAS WEDDING BY BRIONNA ROSE PHOTO

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NAMES: Michael and Alanya Bonas AGES: 24 and 23 OCCUPATIONS: Michael is a Veterinary Medicine Student at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, and Alanya is Self Employed. CEREMONY & RECEPTION: Hartman’s Herb Farm, Barre, MA INVITATIONS: Vista Print FLOWERS: Alanya made all of the bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, and centerpieces the night before the wedding with her mother and one of her bridesmaids with flowers that they purchased from Fifty Flowers. “My mother and I were able to make my bridal bouquet together which made it much more special,” says Alanya. BRIDE’S DRESS: Carbonneau Bridal and Formalwear, Worcester, MA BRIDE’S SHOES: DSW CATERER: Hartman’s Herb Farm, Barre, MA MUSIC: Ceremony/Cocktail Hour Matthew Sowersby, Reception Brass Attack GROOM’S SUIT: Men’s Wearhouse CAKE: Tina King (Bride’s Aunt) BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Azazie RINGS: Rustic and Main (Groom’s wedding band) and Brilliant Earth (Brides’s rings) HAIR: Family friend MAKEUP: Bright Eyes Beauty Bar, Worcester, MA FIRST DANCE SONG: Can’t Help Falling in Love MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Personally the whole wedding was memorable for us! But the best thing was that Michael’s grandmother, who was sick at the time, was thankfully able to make it to the wedding. Oh, and of course getting our pictures taken with the baby goats! What other Bride and Groom get to do that?” THEME: Rustic, Bohemian, and Travel

ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE BONAS WEDDING BY BRIONNA ROSE PHOTO

e n o c a r t e P KARYN + JOSEPH

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS JUNE 1, 2019 ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE PETRACONE WEDDING BY BRIONNA ROSE PHOTO

NAMES: Joseph & Karyn Petracone

AGES: 32 & 25

OCCUPATIONS: Construction Foreman & Credentialing Supervisor CEREMONY/RECEPTION: Hardwick Winery, Hardwick, MA RECEPTION TENT: Sunshine Tent and Party, Westminster, MA INVITATIONS: Etsy.com

FLOWERS: Emily Paquette of Lone Birch Blossoms, Hardwick, MA BRIDE’S DRESS: Pearl Bridal Boutique, Holyoke, MA BRIDE’S SHOES: Dillard’s

CATERER: Log Rolling Catering (Log Cabin/Delaney House), Holyoke, MA MUSIC: Steve Minor - DJ Blackout Worcester, MA GROOM’S SUIT: Nat Falk, Ware, MA CAKE: Cakes By Amanda, Barre, MA BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Show Me Your Mumu (online) RINGS: Dioguardi Jewelers, Ware, MA HAIR: Stephanie Pouliout, Ludlow, MA MAKEUP: Marissa Rakouskas

FIRST DANCE: “Beautiful Crazy” by Luke Combs MEMORABLE MOMENT: Father-daughter dance, American soldier tribute THEME: Simple, neutral tones, and greenery

ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE PETRACONE WEDDING BY BRIONNA ROSE PHOTO

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IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS AUGUST 17, 2019 ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE TALLARITA WEDDING BY GREG MOSS PHOTOGRAPHY AND BRIAN SULLIVAN

NAMES: Rebecca and Evan Tallarita AGES: 27, 28 OCCUPATIONS: Nurse Practitioner and Civil Engineer CEREMONY/RECEPTION: The Barn at Liberty Farms, Ghent, NY INVITATIONS: Basic Invite FLOWERS: Silverpetals Farm, Gallatin, NY BRIDE’S DRESS: Pearl Bridal Boutique, Holyoke, MA MUSIC: A Perfect Blend Entertainment, Peekskill, NY GROOM’S SUIT: Men’s Wearhouse BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Mariella Creations, Rocky Hill, CT RINGS: Michael Szwed Jewelers, Longmeadow, MA HAIR: Sheri Engleman, Cut Salon MAKEUP: Laura Diggle FIRST DANCE SONG: “Heaven” by Kane Brown MEMORABLE MOMENT: When Evan ripped his pants while doing a funny dance during the best man speech.

ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE TALLARITA WEDDING BY GREG MOSS PHOTOGRAPHY AND BRIAN SULLIVAN

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e u g a r p S H AY L E Y + R YA N

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS OCTOBER 12, 2019 ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE SPRAGUE WEDDING BY KAREN GEAGHAN PHOTOGRAPHY

NAMES: Ryan & Hayley Sprague AGES: 30, 27 OCCUPATIONS: Carpenter, Bank Teller CEREMONY AND RECEPTION: Old Sturbridge Village FLOWERS: Badger’s Flowers BRIDE’S DRESS: Oleg Cassinni BRIDE’S SHOES: Corral Cowboy Boots MUSIC: Steve Naigal VIDEOGRAPHER: Visual Sound Productions CAKE: Franchesco’s Bakery FIRST DANCE SONG: “Head Over Boots” by John Pardi MEMORABLE MOMENT: Riding Sy down the aisle and getting married under the pergola Ryan made himself.

12+ MONTHS

Wedding to-do

Discuss finances with everyone contributing to the event and set a budget. Set the date and ceremony/reception locations. This is your first big decision (trust us, EVERYONE will be asking this the moment after you get engaged!). Establish a guest list. Book your photographer, florist, musicians/ DJ, cake baker, and other vendors. Start thinking about the style and theme of your wedding. Reserve hotel room blocks if needed. Decide who will officiate the ceremony and book him/her. Start shopping for gown/tux styles. Take engagement photos to use on your wedding website, save the dates, and to get to know your photographer.

Book your honeymoon!!!

Schedule beauty trials and book hairstylists and makeup artists.

4-5 MONTHS BEFORE Finalize your plans with your florist. Plan the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. Address invitations.

Buy attendants gifts, including those for your parents and new in-laws.

Order save-the-dates.

Check marriage license requirements.

Choose items for your wedding gift registry.

Meet with your caterer to discuss menu and drinks. Don’t forget the cake! Pick out and purchase favors. Book your wedding-night room and confirm hotel room blocks for guests. Mail out your invitations at the 6 – 8 week mark. RSVPs should be due one month before the wedding. Do a hair/makeup trial with your makeup artist/hair stylist.

Start looking into honeymoon destinations and dates.

1 MONTH BEFORE

6-8 MONTHS BEFORE

Submit a photo list to your photographer of shots that you really want.

Interview and book your vendors; don’t forget to get a signed contract. Plan/discuss ceremony with officiant. Discuss religious requirements like premarital counseling.

Write your vows/toasts. Check off your “something old, new, borrowed and blue.” Send out invites for rehearsal and dinner.

1-2 WEEKS BEFORE

2-3 MONTHS BEFORE

Get the men’s fashions in order.

Mail out save-the-dates.

Get your final dress fitting!

Shop for and purchase wedding bands.

9 – 11 MONTHS BEFORE

So you think you can’t dance? Consider taking lessons! Now is the time to book them!

Confirm details, deliveries, and final payment amounts with your vendors.

Put together a day-of emergency kit.

Go to your first dress fitting! Remember to bring your shoes and appropriate undergarments.

Order your gown and veil and schedule fittings: one for six weeks before the wedding, and one for one to two weeks before the wedding to ensure a perfect fit.

Finalize the seating chart and prepare escort/place cards.

Arrange day-of transportation for yourself and the bridal party.

Propose to your bridesmaids and groomsmen to see if they’d like to be in your wedding party.

Choose bridesmaid dresses and have your bridesmaids order them.

Order your invitations and thank-you notes.

Send a list of music choices to your DJ. Include a “must play” or “don’t play” list. Include your first dance, father-daughter, and mother-son dance songs. Also include any music you may want to use for entrances into the reception.

Start packing for the honeymoon.

If you’re missing any RSVPs, follow up now. Give your caterer, reception site and cake baker the final head count/ seating chart. Pick up your dress; break in your shoes. Organize your payments and decide who will distribute them. Pick up your marriage license! Get a final hair trim and touch up any color. Pack overnight necessities for after the wedding. Give your day-of schedule to your day-of coordinator or one of your attendants.

1 DAY BEFORE Get a mani and pedi. Bring all ceremony accessories, like items for a unity service, to the site. Give the marriage license to your officiant (do not forget!).

DAY OF Eat a good breakfast. You may forget to eat, even if you always do! Give gifts to your parents and each other. Hand off the wedding rings to the best man.

Mesmerize Her