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Commerce Center
Alabama Activity Center
Call us today 269.0222 or visit our website! Commerce Center 401 Adams Avenue Alabama Activity Center 201 Dexter Avenue RSA Plaza Terrace 770 Washington Avenue
M ontgoMery C atering , i nC . | 334-269-0222 montgomery-catering.com
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New 3 & 4 Bedroom Homes from the $230s • Plans for all Stages in Life • Premium Finishes & Green Building Features • Walkable Community • 1.5 acre Hampstead Farms • 3 Neighborhood Restaurants & Bars • Coffee Shop • Gorgeous Salt Water Pool • Salon & Spa • Shopping • Tennis Courts with on-site Pro • Public Library Branch • Playgrounds • Parks & Preserves • YMCA Y’s Up Gym • Bocce Courts • Home to new Montessori School at Hampstead • New Public High School Site Opening in 2013 Adjacent to Hampstead • Convenient Taylor Road Location • Information Center Open Daily
Town building, design, & construction are an evolving process. The Hampstead master plan, features, floor plans, & pricing may change without notice due to a variety of considerations. Any illustrations are artist’s depictions only & may differ from completed improvements. This is not an offer to sell real estate property. Information is correct but not warranted. Void where prohibited by law. Equal Housing Opportunity. © 2 0 12
14 Style for the Aisle 18 A Wedding that Reflects You 22 To Trash or to Treasure 26 RSVP Pins 28 The Bridesmaid Diaries
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30 Destination Weddings 35 Happy Honeymooning 38 Jewelry Feature:
Marquirette’s Cronier’s Fine Jewelry Charlotte’s Jewelry
44 Engagements
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48 Weddings 60 Something Old, New Borrowed & To Do!
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72 Resource Directory
ON THE COVER Bridal Fashion Photo by Aubrie Lemon Moates
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OUR VOW TO YOU. Make your big day even better. Welcome your wedding guests with true Southern hospitality and elegant style at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center in downtown. Whether you’re planning an intimate evening or a grand soiree, the Renaissance can be tailored to any event. Our 346 luxurious guest rooms provide comfort for your guests while the 14,000-square-foot ballroom will wow every member of the wedding party. Let our wedding experts help you plan a wedding that will exceed your expectations. For more information, please call 334.532.0700 or visit www.renaissancemontgomery.com.
RENAISSANCE MONTGOMERY HOTEL & SPA AT THE CONVENTION CENTER 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery AL 36104 t:334.532.0700 renaissancemontgomery.com Part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
from the GIRLS The River Region Guide for All Things Social BRIDAL ISSUE
I
t’s the day every bride dreams of and the issue we have long anticipated. Montgomery is known for being traditional when it comes to weddings, and there are many bridal publications that feature conventional ideas. However, growing in popularity are brides who want to think beyond the expected and create a unique wedding and reception experience for their guests. After years of requests, like you, we decided to take the plunge. RSVP’s special edition bridal issue is finally here—a not so traditional resource for Southern brides. We want to thank all of the creative, talented entrepreneurs in the wedding industry who contributed to the success of this issue. The pages ahead are filled with unique ideas and new trends, ways to make sure your wedding reflects your personal style, tips on making your honeymoon a success, the latest styles in wedding dresses, a detailed checklist, facts and myths about destination weddings and one of my favorite articles, “The Bridesmaid Diaries,” an article encouraging bridal etiquette. To all the engaged couples and newlyweds, we wish you love and happiness for a lifetime. Congratulations!
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Style for the
Aisle
By Crystal Strickland Photography by Aubrie Lemon Moates 14
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OPPOSITE Model: Lauren Designer: Jasmine Collection Price: $800 Found at Denson’s Details: Net fit and flare gown with satin lining. The gown is accented with a flower sash with a rhinestone diamond center. TOP LEFT Model: Lauren Designer: Christos Price: $4,200 Found at The White Room (earrings also from The White Room) Details: Dotted net ball gown with shirred bodice and a gathered skirt. The natural waist is accented with a grosgrain ribbon flower. TOP RIGHT Model: Autumn Designer: Bliss by Monique Lhuillier Price: $3,960 Found at Ivory and White Details: Beaded bodice with flowers. It also has a feather flare with a sash (necklace also from Ivory and White).
BOTTOM LEFT Model: Toni Designer: Vera Wang Price: $11,600 Details: Doubled lace with a dark sash (birdcage veil also from Ivory and White). BOTTOM RIGHT Model: Taylor Designer: VII Collection Price: $959 Found at Denson’s Details: Fitted bodice gown with flare.
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TOP LEFT Model: Lauren Designer: Maggie Sottero Price: $1,089 Found at Touch of Class Details: Long train with corseted back. This dress features a mix of lace and beading (earrings also from Touch of Class).
TOP RIGHT Model: Autumn Designer: Jasmine Collection Price: $1,140 Found at Denson’s Details: Dotted net with lace and beading.
BOTTOM LEFT Model: Toni Designer: Maggie Sottero Price: $859 Found at Touch of Class Details: Satin gown with beading and ruching. BOTTOM RIGHT Model: Taylor Designer: Maggie Sottero Price: $1,599 Found at Touch of Class Details: Chiffon taffeta gown (earrings also from Touch of Class—designer Cristal D’Or).
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You a wedding that reflects
By Chelsea Patricia Photos by Chelsea Patricia Photography
“Yours was the most unique wedding that I have ever seen!” “That wedding was just so you!” “I’ve never seen a wedding so much about the two people getting married!” These are the most amazing compliments that I received in reference to my own wedding day. I love that people were able to see me and my husband - our personalities, relationships and passions - in every detail and moment of the day that was, after all, about us.
your own. I think that, as Southern women, we sometimes feel we need to be given permission to do certain things, especially to break tradition. So, here you go: you have permission to be unique, to be you, to incorporate yourself, your fiancé and everything that you love into your wedding day.
When you are planning your wedding, you start researching and planning colors, fabrics, favors, dresses, shoes and hairstyles. With countless wedding blogs, as well as magazines in print, I’m sure you have plenty of ideas of what you would like to incorporate. Looking through these blogs, I am sure that you often think: “Sure that may work in California, but I’m not allowed to do that here in the South, am I?”
So, how do you get started?
The answer is, in short, YES. Yes, you are allowed to make the day
For instance, the groom’s cake traditionally expresses the groom’s
I suggest brainstorming together. Make a date night out of it. Both of you need to write lists of what is most important to you. Have you always dreamed of wearing hot pink shoes? Does family participation top both of your lists? You need to make sure that the details which are important to you, both large and small, are included on your wedding day.
personality (in the South, usually through a college football themed cake design), but what about the bride’s cake? Is she obligated to have a white, ruffled three tier? Absolutely not! Inject personality into every aspect of your wedding day! I know it’s a daunting task to tell your mother or grandmother (or even his mother—eek!) that you are going to have a bride’s cake shaped like a Coach purse or ballet shoes in lieu of a standard white bride’s cake, but it’s important that you take hold of the parts of the wedding day that mean the most to you and make them your own. This, of course, applies to the parts of the day that your fiancé cares most about as well! For some, the effect of planning your day your way will be loud. For me, it was a pink dress, pink hair and a ceremony on BRIDAL RSVP 19
is centrally located in Montgomery adjacent to the Alabama
Shakespeare Festival. The venue offers over 4,000 Sq. Ft. of space that 2101 Eastern Blvd. | Montgomery, AL 36117 For More Information Call: 334.272.1001
can be divided into two separate areas. An outdoor courtyard with a fountain reminiscent of New Orleans is
the perfect setting for memorable photo
opportunities. The Courtyard is the ideal avenue for your next event, meeting or wedding/reception.
a theatre stage, plus feathers in my bouquets, my birdcage veil and table arrangements. For others, though, the result will be a subtle burst of personality seen in minor details, like a brightly-colored petticoat hidden under the folds of white. I am not necessarily encouraging a non-traditional wedding. I am encouraging a wedding that is unique to you, both individually and as a couple, whether you are traditionalists at heart or quite a bit out of the box. If there are certain traditions that truly mean something to you, include those in your ceremony and reception. If you absolutely love white cakes, white shoes, pearl necklaces and chapel veils, then do it! Don’t feel pushed into being “different” for the sake of being different. Let me reiterate - your wedding day is not about dresses and flowers, but about you, your fiancé, the way you love one another and the melding of personalities - who you are both together and apart. If you plan in a way that reflects you, your fiancé and your relationship at this special point in your lives, then you will love your wedding - every detail - for the next 70+ years. When your children and grandchildren leaf through your wedding album, you will still be in love with the way that you and your fiancé chose to celebrate the start of your marriage. Even better, maybe, just maybe, looking back on the reasons you fell in love will help you to fall in love again and again.
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To
Trash or To
Treasure By: Peyton Dismukes
To Trash...
You spend countless hours visiting dress shops and surfing the web for gown inspiration. Once you find the perfect dress, you spend more time in dress fittings and searching for the right accessories. Not to mention the years spent dreaming of your wedding gown as a little girl—only to drag it through the mud after your wedding? Light it on fire? Swim in it? Make a mud angel? It might sound crazy, but growing numbers of women are doing just that. Women are hiring photographers to take beautiful, dramatic photos of them basically ruining their wedding dress shortly after the ceremony. They are part of the trash the dress trend.
Studio 1250 • studio1250.com
It is believed the trend was started in 2005 by Las Vegas photographer John Michael Cooper who, inspired by fashion photography, was tired of the cookiecutter images that every bride requests. Superstition causes many people to think destroying your wedding dress is a bad way to start a marriage—so why do brides want it? Maybe this is the modern bride’s form of rebellion. Maybe these brides are looking for an outlet for their creativity and see it as an artistic way of expressing themselves and showing off their personal style. Whatever the reason, it is certain that these photos can really capture the personality of a bride.
Kim+Adam • kimplusadam.com
Don’t assume trashing the dress limits you to cavorting in the ocean or setting yourself on fire. Splatter yourself with colorful paint, have some fun with that leftover wedding cake or connect with nature and pose in the woods. The options are infinite. You can truly incorporate items that reflect you and your husband. Your wedding album won’t sit on a shelf and collect dust with these beautiful, creative photos to liven it up. Every time you share your collection of wedding memories with family and friends, you’ll blow them away! Chelsea Patricia • chelseapatricia.com BRIDAL RSVP 23
Lynn Michelle • lynnmichelle.com
Julie Lowry/Chanterelle Photography chanterellephotography.com
To Treasure...
If you can’t imagine dousing your dress in mud, paint or swamp water for those ever-creative and increasingly popular trash the dress photos, then wedding gown preservation is for you. You spend vast amounts of time and money to find that perfect dress for your perfect day. So when you return from the honeymoon, why not give your wedding dress the same amount of care it received before the wedding? While the exact origination of preserving wedding gowns is difficult to track down (it can be traced back to more than 100 years ago), it is something that is crucial if you want to keep your dress in good shape. You can’t expect to leave your dress in a garment bag in the closet for years without it losing its luster and becoming discolored. Even if you don’t have a plan for your wedding dress in the future, you may change your mind when it’s too late. Don’t look at it as an unnecessary cost; look at it as an investment that is well worth your money. Consider getting your daughter photographed playing “dress up” in your preserved dress and displaying it at her wedding down the road. Or you may want to display your dress at an anniversary party. The ideas are endless, and they are all possible with wedding dress preservation. With 41 years of experience, no one in the area knows gown preservation like Cheryl Reaves of Jim Massey’s Cleaners & Formalwear. With her, you can trust that your perfect wedding dress will remain treasured for years to come. Styles may fade, but memories last forever. Keep your dress as beautiful as it was on the day you said I do. BRIDAL RSVP 25
THE BRIDESMAID DIARIES
By Mallory Anderson • Photography by Aubrie Lemon Moates
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ost of you have seen “27 Dresses” or at least know the gist of the film—lonely girl is a dedicated bridesmaid in several weddings, finds love in an unexpected place and then lives happily ever after following her dream wedding. I have felt closely connected to Katherine Heigl’s role in this movie over the last few years, but I believe that there were some important lessons for the bride that were left out. Coming from a girl with some serious experience as a bridesmaid—having been in 14 weddings (going on 15) — I’m going to give you the “uncut” version of what we [the bridesmaids] are really thinking.
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1. Merry maids. Be selective when it comes to choosing your bridesmaids. You don’t have to ask Sally to be in your wedding just because you were in hers. More than likely, she will thank you— she won’t have to buy a bridesmaid’s dress! Choose the women who have stuck by your side through the thick and thin and who you picture being a part of your life for years to come. Plus, you don’t want it to look as if have an army standing behind you on your big day. 2. Shower power. If you are going to have 10 creatively-themed showers, don’t expect your bridesmaids to show up with a gift in hand to every one. Being a part of a wedding party can be expensive with the dress, shoes, bachelorette party, hair and makeup, etc. Please don’t add 10 gifts to go along with it. Just so you don’t look like you showed up empty handed, pick an overall theme for a gift, and give the bride and groom something small at each shower. 3. Ink your appreciation. Going along with the tip above, remember to write your thank you notes in a timely manner, or just make sure you actually write them! I know this idea may seem Southern or old-fashioned, but taking time to write to say thank you can truly mean the world to someone. There are going to be lots of people, not just the bridesmaids, who will do behind the scenes things for you on your wedding day, and they should be shown a little appreciation. 4. Think thrifty, find flattering. Be careful when selecting the bridesmaid dresses. Most importantly, be considerate of those who might not have the funds to spend on a dress they may only wear once. Also, be conscious of one’s figure. Not everyone is a size two and looks good in almost everything. Pick two styles that would be flattering for any shape. 5. Gift Unforgettably. When selecting the bridesmaid’s gift, try to give something sentimental. In one of the weddings I was a part of, the bride gave unique crosses with handwritten notes on the back to each bridesmaid. This was one of the most special gifts I’ve ever been given. Every time I look at it in my room, it reminds me of our memories together and why she chose me to be a part of her wedding. Girls just want to have fun, right? There is no reason for the happiest day of your life to be stressful because you’ve got your panties in a wad. Sit back, relax and enjoy the wedding festivities. These girls are here to take the anxiety off of you—that’s why you chose them to stand next to you, remember?
Destination Weddings: The “I Do” how-To _ By: Julie Lowry Think destination weddings are only for Photography by: Julie Lowry/ Grammy winners, “Real Housewives” Chanterelle Photography and the rest of the rich and famous? I’ve photographed destination weddings from Hawaii to Mexico, from Charleston, N.C. to the Bahamas. Some were intimate gatherings of 20 guests, and others were full-on shindigs of 100 partygoers. None of the brides were celebrities, and they all agree—you can have a destination wedding for the same cost or even less than a wedding in your hometown. Here’s a how-to on saying “I do” away from home without blowing your wedding budget.
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I know what you’re thinking—how could it possibly be the same price or less to have my wedding at an exotic location when I can have it locally with no travel expenses? For practical purposes, I’m assuming you’d make comparable choices for your wedding, no matter where it took place. Your dress would cost the same amount, you’d pick the same type of food, cake, etc., and the travel expenses are the main difference between you having a destination wedding and a wedding at home. But, before we get to the cost of travel, let’s look at the one key area where destination weddings save you a hefty chunk of change: the reception.
The bulk of most wedding budgets is spent on food, drinks, cake and favors for the reception, and that cost is often calculated based on a per plate or per head charge. Destination weddings have significantly fewer guests attend in comparison to hometown weddings, even if you send out the same number of invitations. A “big” wedding by destination standards might have 75-100 guests, but in my experience, the average head count is far less at 30-40 guests. So instead of paying for all the fixings for 200 guests in your hometown, your reception bill would likely be cut in half, or even more. The cost of flowers and décor is often lower as well, as many destination brides choose minimal accents in order to let the natural setting of the location shine. What you choose to do with the savings is up to you. Some brides opt to upgrade to a more luxurious venue or more extravagant food, but most put at least part the difference toward balancing out the cost of travel.
“I know what you’re thinking—how could it possibly be the same price or less to have my wedding at an exotic location when I can have it locally with no travel expenses?” When it comes to travel, two main factors affect the cost: how far away you’re going and how popular that destination is for tourists. Traveling to destinations such as Jamaica or New York City is relatively inexpensive from Alabama since they’re a short flight away, and there are plenty of flights available
due to their mass appeal. Expect to pay more to go to Bora Bora, which in comparison is much farther away and has fewer flights going in and out on a daily basis. Save a little more by combining your wedding and honeymoon into one longer vacation. You’ll only pay for flights once, and room rates tend to go down the longer you stay. Traditionally, guests pay for their own travel expenses, so keep that in mind especially if you have your heart set on having certain people in attendance. Make sure to get a tentative head count before finalizing your location decision, and don’t make assumptions about who will come and who won’t. You don’t want to plan a wedding at a five-star resort for 30 guests and find out 75 are planning to make the trek! Once you’ve chosen the destination, you’ll need to find a venue. All-inclusive resorts usually offer the most inexpensive
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wedding packages and can be a good option if the package includes the things you want. The downside is that they often have the most restrictions and the fewest opportunities to personalize your wedding (hence the term “wedding mills”). For more flexibility, consider a resort that isn’t all-inclusive and has multiple location options on the property to choose from. Most have a wedding planner on staff who can help you with the rest of the details at no additional charge as long as you are booking their facility. If you choose a resort as your wedding venue, save your guests a little on accommodations by asking for a group rate on rooms. Nearby condos can also be a great option. For a recent Hawaii wedding that took place at a Marriott hotel, the guests and I stayed in new, two- bedroom condos a short walk away for much less than the hotel rate.
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photographed a wedding in St. Croix at a beautiful estate built around the ruins of a sugar mill. Guests were able to stay in the six bedrooms all week for the same price they would have paid for a modest hotel room, and the bride and groom had a ready-made venue for their wedding— win-win!
If you’re looking for a more intimate setting for your wedding, consider renting a private estate home. A few years ago, I
No matter what type of venue you choose, include a short pre-wedding planning trip to your destination in your budget. You’ll feel more confident about your decisions if you can see the options with your own eyes. Save time by narrowing down your choices online before the trip. For resort recommendations, get opinions from destination wedding brides through forums like bestdestinationweddings.com; to find estate homes available for rent, check out Vacation Rentals by Owner (also known as vrbo.com).
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(334) 396-7120 • 8131 Vaughn Road (Peppertree Shopping Center) • www.dougs2.com
Happy Honeymooning Avoid Travel Hassles By Lindsey Rodgers and Ann Sadie Osten
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ou’ve booked the big wedding details— venue, caterer, florist. Now it’s time to consider where you and your future spouse want to go to celebrate the first few weeks of being newlyweds. Sounds easy, right? Not so fast. We’ve all heard those honeymoon disaster stories— booking a five-star hotel that ends up being a motel, flights being canceled, you name it. With all of that time and energy going into planning the reception and wedding, do you really want to tie yourself down with honeymoon details? Do you want to risk not knowing exactly what you’re getting into? RSVP teamed up with travel agent Ann Sadie Osten of Sadie’s Global Travel Ltd., to give you some tips on making sure you have the perfect honeymoon getaway—with no unexpected surprises. LR: When choosing a honeymoon destination, why is it important to know what you’re getting into beforehand? ASO: A honeymoon is no time for surprises or unexpected/ hidden costs. In the long run, knowing what you’re getting into ahead of time will save the bride and groom time and money. LR: Should people look for a certified travel agent? Is that important? Why? ASO: A CTC (Certified Traveler Counselor) is a designation that recognizes an individual as a professional in the travel industry. This is an individual who is committed to the travel industry and has invested additional education not only in the travel industry, but also in marketing, management and risk management. They are destination specialists with experience in multiple areas. You can expect expert guidance, personalized service, best value, years of solid relationships with vendors and one-stop shopping. A travel adviser is a consumer advocate and provides guaranteed satisfaction.
LR: What kind of research do you do on honeymoon destinations before recommending them to couples? ASO: Site inspections of the resorts provide firsthand experience, which is the best knowledge an agent can provide. We work with the business development managers of various resorts to gain education and training, and we also obtain reviews of the various resorts from our clients. It’s also very important to qualify your honeymoon couple to determine what type of resort/honeymoon they’re seeking— adventure, relaxation, cultural experience, etc. LR: What are some of the scams you can encounter using sites like Expedia? ASO: I would not necessarily categorize them as scams. Online booking sites often offer eye-catching deals. As a professional travel adviser, it is our job to determine if the couple is looking for a deal or a once in a lifetime honeymoon. In most cases, the latter is true. The saying “you get what you pay for” has a lot of merit. Read the fine print, and make sure you know exactly what is and what is not included. If you purchase from an online source and you have a challenge, you may encounter long hold times to get a real person to help you. Our agency builds relationships with our clients. It’s so important to a client to have a relationship with a real person they’ve either talked to or met when they need help with a challenge. LR: What are some trends right now with honeymooning? ASO: Some trends right now with honeymoons include: booking all-inclusive honeymoons and cruises (as they are cost-effective), traveling to Mexico’s more seductive destinations such as Riviera Maya, staying at smaller, more intimate resorts, reserving suites with private plunge pools, combining the wedding and the honeymoon by having a destination wedding, pursuing specific sports or passions on vacation and honeymoons to Italy. BRIDAL RSVP 35
LR: How do you tailor honeymoon packages to specific couples? What they want to do, see, etc.? ASO: We listen to the couples likes and dislikes, activities and interests. We then determine their budget and offer destinations that meet that criteria. LR: Do you think it’s important for couples to have a budget? ASO: Absolutely! Budgets allow agents to find the perfect fit for honeymooners. Flexibility is the key to best value. Consider every possible expense: flights, car rentals, hotels, meals, bar bills, souvenirs, tips, taxes and gratuities. LR: What are the basics of finding the right travel agency? ASO: The basics of finding a good travel agency include: certification – do they have a CTC on staff? Stay local when picking a travel agency, and interview the agent you’re planning on using. Find out how long they have been in business, and pay attention to other agents in the office—are they taking time with the clients or just pressuring them to close a deal? Find out what type of reputation the agency has. Are they a locally-owned company or is their corporate office located in another state? LR: Should newlyweds encounter a problem with flight or details, what should they do? What can a travel agency do that the newlyweds may not be able to do to fix this? ASO: If they did not book with a professional travel company, they may be on their own to work with the airline or resort to solve their problem. Travel agents are trained and experienced in problem solving. They have direct relationships with the vendors and tour companies they book packages through for their clients. LR: How far in advance should couples book their honeymoon? ASO: Couples should book their honeymoon six to eight months in advance depending on the destination. This will allow better availability and possible value. LR: What’s your role in helping choose a honeymoon destination? ASO: We qualify the client by asking a series of questions to make sure the appropriate destination or resort is chosen, we distill the product information, investigate and supply competitive information, stay abreast of the most current and timely promotions, analyze current promotions (the cheapest is not always best) and clarify fine print such as cancelation penalties and restrictions.
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TURN BASIC INTO BLISS. Don’t settle for ordinary. Create your fairytale day at the Marriott Capitol Hill in Prattville. Let our Wedding Specialists focus on every detail, from the rehearsal to the reception, while you make the memories. Our 8,200 square-foot ballroom is ideal for larger celebrations and our 95 luxurious rooms are packed with amenities to make you and your guests feel special. Three Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail courses are only steps away, creating a beautiful backdrop and promising to entertain your wedding party during the weekend. For more information, please call 334.290.1235 or visit www.marriottcaptiolhill.com.
MONTGOMERY MARRIOTT PRATTVILLE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER AT CAPITOL HILL 2500 Legends Circle, Prattville, AL 36006 Phone 334.290.1235, marriottcapitolhill.com Part of Alabama’s Resort Collection on The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
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What
a Girl
Wants I
t’s the moment every girl dreams of—the moment when the
love of your life gets down on one knee and presents you with a beautiful engagement ring. Long after the big day has passed, your ring will remain a visible and beautiful reminder of your shared past,
your values and your dreams for the future. Selecting an engagement ring is a big decision, and it’s important to make sure you find one that fits your style and your price range. When it comes to picking the ring you’ll be “rocking” for years to come, the girls here at RSVP recommend you skip the chains and consult with local jewelers such as Charlotte’s Jewelry, Cronier’s Fine Jewelry and Marquirette’s Exquisite Jewelry. With the best customer service and selection in town, we guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Read on to learn more, and find the jeweler who’s right for you.
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Why Marquirette's? • Huge selection of diamonds • Professional sales associates • Ideal cut brands like Lazare Kaplan, Firemark and PassionStone • Hand-selected diamonds directly from the diamond cutters • Purchased diamonds, no memo diamonds • In-store diamond cutting demonstrations • Graduate gemologist on staff • Outstanding price points • More than 1,000 bridal rings in store • Custom designed rings • Diamonds shown loose • Diamonds offered in a variety of shapes • Budget-friendly • Comfortable viewing • Can redesign rings and re-cut diamonds • “Test drives” permitted • Appraisals included with purchase • In-house jewelry setter; same day setting • Cruise and other promotions available • Natural colored diamonds available • High quality diamonds at a great price • Can trade-in and trade-up diamonds from Marquirette’s or elsewhere • Diamonds available up to five carats • Buyers have been direct-site holders of DeBeers • Relationships with diamond cutters worldwide for more than 40 years • Many diamonds cut in store • Paid cash for lowest pricing on diamonds • Guaranteed to match or beat any price • Bridal selection enhances diamond experience • Entire bridal package offered
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CRONIER'S FINE JEWELRY Father and daughter team Jerry and Geri Cronier, along with Jerry’s nephew Wesley Scruggs, the in-house master jeweler, work together to design beautiful custom engagement rings and jewelry for every occasion imaginable. Bill Black, Amy Wilson, DeeDee Johnson and Yvonne Collins round out the Cronier’s design team and have invaluable experience in various backgrounds. This talented ensemble brings many years of expertise, creating a shopping experience like no other for not only local customers, but even those from neighboring states as far away as Hawaii. Years of experience in custom design enable us to bring your vision of that perfect piece of jewelry to life, whether it’s in store, over the phone or by email. Cronier’s carries more options of diamond, white gold and platinum engagement ring styles than any store in the capital city. We offer to build the engagement ring style you like to fit the budget you have. Cronier’s also has a unique restyling service which offers ideas of
how to turn something old into something new and fabulous at no charge to the customer. Cronier’s also offers new and affordable ways to include men in the shopping experience by offering the William Henry Collection, a handcrafted personal knife line, as well as Graf von Faber-Castell, inventors of the pencil and perfectors of the modern writing instrument. These gifts are great ideas for the special men in your life. Cronier’s has a wide selection of Trollbeads, beautiful sterling and Italian glass beads in which every piece has a story. We also always have affordable, fun collectable art and jewelry pieces, as well as one-of-a-kind creations just waiting to come out of the case. Come see us, and rediscover one of Montgomery’s special treats for the latest in jewelry fashion and design. Cronier’s Fine Jewelry is open Tuesday- Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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CHARLOTTE’S JEWELRY Charlotte Evans, owner of Charlotte’s Jewelry, has been intimately involved in the jewelry industry for 33 years and counting. After 25 years of working full time, she decided to step away from the business in order to spend more time with her husband and two children. However, she continued to meet with jewelry customers oneon-one and by appointment only. Once her son and daughter left for college, Charlotte felt it was time to open her own fine jewelry store to better suit her growing clientele. In April 2010, Charlotte’s Jewelry opened its doors to the people of the River Region. As you walk into this charming and alluring store, you will be welcomed by a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Charlotte’s sales team pays attention to their customer’s desires and needs. “We have noticed the trend of today’s young brides searching for the perfect ring that reveals their individuality, yet stays within their price range. They want a unique piece that reflects their own personality,” notes sales associate Christen Lavecchia. These days, couples are interested in some form of customization in their wedding set. Recent research reveals that more engagement customers are buying from local jewelry stores who are capable of offering these creative options. Charlotte’s has two full-time, in-house jewelers with 32 years experience and a GIA Master Gemologist on staff who has been working in the industry for 13 years. If a client wants a custom-designed job or jewelry repair, they are often pleasantly surprised with the quick turnaround time and are delighted with the final outcome. Amanda Warner, a frequent customer, says of Charlotte’s Jewelry, “I always have a blast stopping by the store to see the girls and shop. I keep my wish list up-to-date and growing and have really enjoyed my jewelry repairs and purchases. I am so glad I found them!” Charlotte’s attentiveness to her customers keeps them coming back. She says, “I prefer to sell more items at a lower profit than fewer items at a larger profit. I love to go shopping at the jewelry shows, and that means having a lot of inventory!” This helps those who have started the special process of shopping for engagement rings. Customer Bryan Tucker agrees, “Charlotte’s Jewelry had a great
selection of diamond engagement rings. The entire staff was wonderful. They were very knowledgeable, and customer service is their top priority. I would highly recommend Charlotte’s to all of my friends.” Charlotte’s offers a wide selection to accommodate all budgets. The store carries three stunning designer lines of engagement rings and wedding sets: Sylvie Collection, La Vie Collection and the Natalie K Collection. Each line is beautifully crafted and unique. In addition, Charlotte’s carries an abundance of other options that have the same stylish look as the branded designer collections without the brand name price tag. Both options are fabulous, and many are available in semi-mounts or already-mounted settings to better serve each individual need at Charlotte’s Jewelry. Breck Honea shares about his experience, “Shopping at Charlotte’s Jewelry is a pleasure. They help me remember important dates by sending me an email…not that I would ever forget my anniversary! Their wonderful staff will remember things my wife liked while in the store and then share those ‘likes’ with me so I don’t bomb Valentine’s Day or a birthday. They always work within my budget and offer a great selection!”
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ENGAGEMENTS Hicks-Cadwell Engagement
Rodgers-Wohlfrom Engagement
After years of knowing one another, fate finally brought together Whitney Dawn Hicks and Christopher Cadwell, both of Montgomery, Ala. Whitney and Chris attended the same high school, although they didn’t formally meet one another until they both ended up at Auburn University. The two began dating their junior year and have been inseparable ever since. Chris proposed just before New Year’s over a candlelit dinner at The Olive Room in downtown Montgomery. Whitney is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Hicks of Montgomery, Ala., and Chris is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Cadwell of Montgomery, Ala. The wedding date is set for Oct. 13, 2012 at the Alley Station in Downtown Montgomery.
After meeting at an Auburn football game their freshman year of college, Lindsey Kaye Rodgers and Christopher Joseph Wohlfrom knew they only had eyes for each other. Four and a half years later, Chris took Lindsey to Atlanta for one of their frequent trips to the High Museum, this time to see the Picasso to Warhol exhibit, and he popped the question at their favorite coffeehouse over two espressos. Lindsey is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robin Duke Rodgers, of Tallahassee, Fla., and Chris is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Joseph Wohlfrom, of Marietta, Ga. The couple will tie the knot on Nov. 17, 2012 in Tallahassee, Fla.
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Thomas-Calligas Engagement
Emerson-Darrington Engagement
Louis Michael Calligas and Catherine Elspeth Thomas met eight years ago through mutual friends. Louis asked Catherine out, but she was already dating someone at the time. They remained friends over the years, including the three years Catherine spent traveling and living out of state. When she moved back to Montgomery in August of 2010, they finally began dating. Their first year of dating was the same season that Auburn won its National Championship, and despite the following season, Catherine has been considered Louis’ “good luck” ever since. Louis proposed on a trip to Miami in March of 2012, and the wedding is set for July 28, 2012 on Jekyll Island, Ga. Louis is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Gary Calligas of Shreveport, La., and Catherine is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gregory C. Thomas of Houston, Texas.
Jack Ingram Volkswagen is pleased to announce Patrice Emerson and Brandon Darrington as the winners of the “Jack Ingram Volkswagen Dream Wedding Giveaway,” a competitive giveaway valued at more than $40,000. The prize package included a brand new 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, a bridal gown, tuxedos, flowers, jewelry, reception catering, wedding cake, photography, a wedding planner and more. After meeting in high school and dating for seven years, Brandon took Patrice to SaZa for their anniversary. After dinner, they walked over to the Renaissance fountain where Brandon got down on one knee and proposed. In shock, Patrice could only say “Oh my gosh, oh my gosh.” They believe they are a great example of young love. “Not only are we young and in love, but we grew in love with one another,” Brandon said. The couple will marry on October 27, 2012 at Mobile Heights Missionary Baptist Church. The reception will be held at the RSA Plaza downtown.
P h o t o g r a p hy b y Jo s h M o a t e s
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ENGAGEMENTS Richardson-McGrail Engagement After graduating from the University of Alabama, Karoline Ann Richardson shouted a “Roll Tide,” and followed her dreams to Washington D.C. Karoline is employed by a political polling group in Alexandra, Va. and is also working on her master’s degree in public policy at Georgetown. Edward “Eddie” Hugh McGrail took a job in Atlanta after graduation, but he knew something was missing. After friends and family encouraged him to accept a job with the Defense Department, he shouted “Go Dawgs,” and headed for the Washington D.C. area and his MBA. On Halloween 2009, Marilyn Monroe (Karoline) met Jack Sparrow (Eddie). One year later, Eddie surprised Karoline with a homemade
telescope and the coordinates for a star named “Karoline McGrail.” She was confused until Eddie bent down on one knee and opened the telescope, revealing a beautiful engagement ring. Karoline and Eddie will tie the knot on June 9, 2012, and a celebration at Jasmine Hill will follow.
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Underwood-Bryant Engagement
Sims-Hines Engagement
When Alice Louise Underwood moved back to Montgomery for an internship, she had no idea she’d meet the love of her life. She met Jason Jennings Bryant, who had just moved back to Montgomery for a job, through mutual friends of theirs. Three years later, with a little help from their golden retriever, Nash, he surprised Alice by proposing to her just before Christmas Eve. Alice is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth W. Underwood III, of Montgomery, Ala., and Jason is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Bryant, of Eclectic, Ala. The couple will get married on Nov. 17, 2012 at St. John’s Episcopal Church.
It was by chance that Nicholas Skyler Hines and Catherine Chandler Sims met at a local pool four years ago. The couple instantly saw sparks, and now they’ve decided to take “the plunge.” Nicholas proposed to Chandler in front of both family and friends at a surprise birthday party she threw for her sister. Chandler is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lee Haigler Sims of Montgomery, Ala., and Nicholas is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Randy Lee Hines of Mobile, Ala. The wedding will be held on May 19, 2012 at First United Methodist Church in Montgomery, Ala., and a reception will follow at the parents of the bride’s home.
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Lao- Murray Wedding Oct. 29, 2011
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hen two cultures unite, wedding planning takes on a little more creativity. On Oct. 29, 2011, Hong Lao and Matthew Thomas Murray celebrated their love twice— with a Chinese tea ceremony and a traditional church ceremony. Hong, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mieng Chiep of Montgomery, Ala., and Matthew, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Murray of Fairhope, Ala., began their wedding day at Alley Station with traditional Chinese activities for close friends and family. Hong wore a Chinese QiPao gown – a fitted, red silk gown with gold accents, and she and her bridesmaids waited in the ballroom for the groom and his groomsmen to find her. In Chinese traditions, when the groom arrives, he has to bribe the girls to let him see his future wife, and they determine if he is worthy to see his bride. The bridesmaids had fun making the groom sing, dance, do pushups, speak in Chinese and blindfold him for more games. After the bride and groom were allowed to see one another for the first time, the Chinese tea ceremony began, where the bride and groom served cups of Chinese hot tea to the elders of both families to show their respect and to gain acceptance into each other’s families. In return for the hot tea, the couple was given their wedding gifts.
After the Chinese tea ceremony, Hong changed into her traditional white wedding dress and accessories, and the couple did a “first look” photo shoot. It was a special and emotional experience for the couple and their families. The wedding ceremony was held at First Baptist Church with Jay Wolfe officiating. After the ceremony, the guests headed back to the Alley Station Ballroom for the reception, where guests were treated to a variety of foods including a shrimp and grits bar, a pasta bar, a dip bar, a salad bar and a fruit and veggie bar. The guests danced the night away to the band and DJ, Groove Factor, and they also enjoyed a photo booth and rooftop games of corn hole played with custom-made corn bags with the bride and groom’s name and wedding date on them. Hong and Matthew left the reception through the alleyway while guests threw ivory rose petals. The bride and groom’s favorite part of the wedding was that it held so many features and personal touches that were important to both families. The Lao-Murray wedding is the perfect example of two cultures blending together into one successful wedding day. Special thanks to The King’s Table, Vickie’s Cakes and Things, Flowers, Etc., LUSH Makeup Art and Jamison Alexander Hair
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Mainor-Mason Wedding Dec. 31, 2011
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new marriage rang in the New Year on Dec. 31, 2011, when Shelby Kathleen Mainor and Victor Chad Mason Jr. tied the knot at Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church.
rafters in the barn was a wrought iron gazebo filled with a beautiful white floral arrangement created by Southern Wedding Designs. Each table was adorned with candles and floral arrangements.
The bride, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Gregory Allen Waller of Ramer, Ala., and Henry F. Mainor Jr. of Montgomery, Ala., and the groom, son of Mr. and Mrs. Victor Chad Mason of Montgomery, Ala., were wed with the bride’s lifelong pastor, Dr. John Ed Mathison, officiating.
Guests enjoyed cuisine from themed food stations featuring Mexican, Italian and American food along with on-site oyster shucking, all provided by A Catered Affair. Cake Designs created the delicious bride and groom cakes.
The bride added a sentimental touch to her traditional ceremony by including a hand-sewn garter and ring bearer pillow made from her grandmother’s wedding gown. The bride’s most memorable moment of the ceremony was the introduction for the first time as Mr. and Mrs. Victor Chad Mason Jr. to family and friends. Following the ceremony, the wedding party rode a trolley to the reception and New Year’s celebration hosted by the bride’s parents at their home in Ramer, Ala. Guests were greeted by valet parking attendants from Apex Valet in Birmingham, Ala. With the help of Tents Unlimited from Atlanta, the family barn was converted into a magical fairytale-style ballroom. Crystal chandeliers and custom lighting hung from the ceiling, and hanging from the
The bride and groom, along with friends and family, danced the night away and celebrated with a New Year’s countdown by the band Black Jacket. Bruce’s Magical Balloons delighted the guests with balloon art, and Pyro Shows performed a breathtaking firework display to celebrate the beginning of a New Year and new life together for the couple. After the stroke of midnight, the elated newlyweds left the reception in a horse-drawn carriage to begin their happily ever after. After a honeymoon trip aboard Disney Cruise Lines, the couple now resides in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Special thanks to Kim Box Photography and Joe Bryan for capturing the special moments of the Mainor-Mason Wedding.
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Calhoun - Honea Wedding Mar. 6, 2010
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tephani Carolyn Calhoun and Breck Allen Honea’s relationship began after Breck saw a write-up about Carolyn in Nashville Lifestyle magazine, and shortly after meeting, they knew it was meant to be. After a surprise proposal at the Hermitage Hotel in Nashville, Tenn., Carolyn, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Paul Calhoun, and Breck, son of Sue Honea and George Honea, tied the knot seven months later on March 6, 2010 at Temple Baptist Church in Hattiesburg, Miss. Carolyn had always dreamed of getting married in a church, having the perfect dress and having an amazing cake. In keeping with a family tradition, Carolyn wore a Priscilla of Boston dress just as her mother did when she got married. Carolyn’s “blue” was a white linen handkerchief monogrammed with her and Breck’s initials in blue, and she kept it in her dress pocket during the wedding. Her “old” was a small Bible passed down through generations in her family that everyone signed on their wedding day. She carried it with her bouquet down the aisle. Carolyn’s sister, Cadie, a singer in Nashville, Tenn., sang “Lead me to the cross” to begin the ceremony. Instead of a unity candle, Breck and Carolyn lit a memory candle, in memory of both of their brothers who passed away, while Cadie sang “Your love amazes me.” The reception was held immediately after the ceremony at the Canebrake Country Club. Guests feasted on a buffet of Southern cuisine including chicken kabobs,
mini cheeseburgers, a prime rib carving station, a mashed potato bar and a fruit and cheese assortment catered by the Canebrake Country Club. Carolyn knew she wanted a special wedding cake, so she designed her five-tiered cake to look like her dress. It had a ruched fabric look on the top two layers with sugar flowers going up one side. Carolyn added a mint green bow to tie in the bridesmaid dress colors with the cake. Carolyn’s sister Cadie sang for the bride and groom’s first dance, and the guests danced the night away to SL100’s Don King, a local DJ. After the bride threw her bouquet, which was caught by her sister Corley, guests tossed candied confetti at the bride and groom as they were whisked away by their limo to the Hard Rock Hotel in Biloxi, Miss. The couple enjoyed their honeymoon in the tropical islands of Hawaii. Special thanks to Tara’s Cakes and Bill Ingalls Photography
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Walker - Norris Wedding Feb. 12, 2012
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n the evening of Feb. 12, 2012, Cameron Jean Walker and Joseph Marvin Norris Jr. tied the long-awaited knot at The Chapel at The Waters in a beautiful wedding ceremony conducted by GracePointe Minister Scotty Harris. The bride was escorted down the aisle by her father to the tune of Lucky Jackson singing their song, “Someone Like You.” After the exchange of vows and a kiss to seal the deal, with the sun setting perfectly over Lake Cameron, the celebration continued with friends and family at The Avenue of the Oaks. The venue was covered in baby’s breath, hydrangeas and roses, thanks to the talented Jana Lubert of Iron Gables.
famous chicken salad. A beautiful four-tiered cake with layers of red velvet, strawberry and classic white with buttercream icing by Vickie Kyser, scrumptious banana pudding boats and a coffee bar with donut holes rounded out the desserts. At the end of the evening, the newlyweds said their farewell through a sea of waving ribbons as they drove off in a private limousine to fly to the island of Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Special thanks to Jana Lubert of Iron Gables for floral design, Blue Willow Catering & Design, Josh Moates of Kim Box Photography, Lucky Jackson, Vickie Kyser, Phillip Pitts Videographer and Jill Ann Wallace Hair.
The guests were treated to fabulous food by Beth Bridges of Blue Willow Catering & Design, which included stuffed mushrooms, bacon-wrapped shrimp and her
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Thrasher-Caldwell Wedding Mar. 12, 2011
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t couldn’t have been a lovelier weekend in New Orleans for the wedding of Mary Emily Thrasher to Phillip Kent Caldwell II. The weekend kicked off at noon on Friday with a bridesmaid luncheon at Commander’s Palace. That evening, after the wedding rehearsal, family and members of the wedding party gathered at the Acme Oyster House for a feast of Cajun cuisine, toasts and videos of Emily and Kent. After dinner, a jazz band, Panorama, led a second-line parade with the bride and groom carrying umbrellas, the guests waving handkerchiefs and the grandparents riding in a horse and carriage through the French Quarter. The band led the couple and dinner guests to “A Gallery for Fine Photography,” where the band continued to play, entertaining the guests for the rest of the evening. On the day of the wedding, Emily, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gatewood Jack Thrasher and granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. William Livingston Flurry, the late Mr. Gatewood Jack Thrasher and Barbara Thrasher Zdanis of Montgomery, Ala., wore an ivory, floor length Faille gown, and her bridesmaids wore navy linen dresses which were designed by the bride herself. Kent, son of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Kent Caldwell of Houston, Texas, and grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Arthur Laura of Texas and Mr. and Mrs. Bobbie G. Caldwell of Atlanta, Ga., wore a navy and white pinstripe suit, while his
groomsmen wore navy and white pinstripe vests. The wedding took place at the Van Benthuysen-Elms Mansion, and it began at half past five under a beautiful gazebo in the courtyard. Both the gazebo and the tent frame that was placed over the courtyard held sparkling chandeliers, and antique French furniture was placed in various locations around the courtyard for extra seating. White wooden chairs faced the gazebo for guests, and tables were placed around the perimeter of the courtyard. The ceremony was officiated by her uncle, Thomas Johnston Perkins, and a fellow co-worker, Kimberly Writt, sang a solo. A trio of guitarists played throughout the wedding. Once the couple said their “I do’s,” chairs were moved to make way for the dance floor and an eight-piece brass band, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, who played New Orleans style music for the guests. The reception was catered by the Elms Mansion, and the favorites of the night were the shrimp and grits and the beef tenderloin. The bride’s cake was an almond cake with buttercream frosting made by Swiss Confectionary, and the groom’s cake was a chocolate cake in the shape of a T-bone steak made by Sweet Life Bakery. The couple honeymooned in the Virgin Islands, Little Dix and Peter Island, and they now reside in Houston, Texas.
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Laissez les bon temps rouler (Let the good times roll)
The Strickland-LS uster Wedding Luster-Strickland Wedding J u n e 1Jun. 1 , 211, 0 1 12011
Photography by Josh Moates and Kim Box | Kim Box Photography
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Photography by Josh Moates and Kim Box | Kim Box Photography
fairytale 10 years in the making was culminated on June 11 at half past six in the evening at The Oaks Plantation, when our very own Crystal Starr Luster exchanged vows with Robert “Trip” Leonard Strickland III after a decade of courtship. The combined talents of RSVP and event planner Jackie Gaut rendered an enchanting ceremony. Guests were mesmerized as the bride, draped in a stunning Rivini lace gown from The White Room, was escorted down the aisle by her father as The Lamb Family Violin Ensemble harmonized beautifully in the background. Crystal carried a bouquet of pink and white peonies and roses cut from Dana’s Floral Design that complemented the soft summer theme of the evening. As she reached the end of the aisle, the glowing bride clasped hands with the groom, wearing a tan poplin suit touched with pink and his heart on his sleeve. The pair was married by Reverend John Ed Mathison under a dazzling archway adorned with delicate pink peonies, roses, green hydrangeas, orchids and hanging crystals that subtly danced in the breeze.
Following the ceremony, guests feasted upon a delicious assortment of Southern style cuisine from Tammy Griffin’s ‘A Catered Affair’ that included pimento cheese burger sliders; giant fried green tomatoes; a ham carving station; chicken, shrimp and beef skewers; mashed potato bar; banana pudding shooters and much more. An elegant five-tiered cake laced with pink ribbon and an indulgent chocolate peanut butter cake were baked by Peggy McKinney, and the feasting selection was topped off with a multi-flavored popcorn station that offered take-home bags. Outside, the lit up dance floor was in a permanent buzz as 2nd Coming Band kept guests dancing into the night. Ladies slid out of their high heels and into pink and brown complimentary flip flops before rocking to the band’s Motown sound. When the evening came to a close, the elated couple was granted farewell with sparklers and then set sail for St. Lucia. A special thanks to Jackie Gaut of Dana’s Floral Design, Melissa Moore Bogardus Hair and Makeup, A Catered Affair, Kim Box Photography, Darren Freeman Videography, Peggy McKinney Design Productions
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a stunning Rivini lace gown from The White Room, was escorted down the aisle by her father as The Lamb Family Violin Ensemble harmonized beautifully in the background. Crystal carried a bouquet of pink and white peonies and roses cut from Dana’s Floral Design that complemented the soft summer theme of the evening. As she reached the end of the aisle, the glowing bride clasped hands with the groom, wearing a tan poplin suit touched with pink and his heart on his sleeve. The pair was married by Reverend John Ed Mathison under a dazzling archway adorned with delicate pink peonies, roses, green hydrangeas, orchids and hanging crystals that subtly danced in the breeze.
and-Luster Wedding
une 11, 2011
he ted
McKinney, and a multi-flavore bags. Outside, buzz as 2nd Co night. Ladies s and brown com the band’s Mot close, the elate klers and then
A special thanks Melissa Moore B fairytale 10 years in the assortment of Southern Kim Box style Photog making was culminated Following the ceremony, guests feasted upon a delicious cuisine from Tammy Griffin’s Peggy McKinne on June 11 at half past six ‘A Catered Affair’ that inin the evening at The Oaks cluded pimento cheese burger Plantation, when our very own Crystal Starr Luster sliders; giant fried green tomatoes; a ham carving station; exchanged vows with Robert “Trip” Leonard Strickland III chicken, shrimp and beef skewers; mashed potato bar; after a decade of courtship. The combined talents of RSVP banana pudding shooters and much more. An elegant and event planner Jackie Gaut rendered an enchanting five-tiered cake laced with pink ribbon and an indulceremony. Guests were mesmerized as the bride, draped in gent chocolate peanut butter cake were baked by Peggy a stunning Rivini lace gown from The White Room, was McKinney, and the feasting selection was topped off with escorted down the aisle by her father as The Lamb Family a multi-flavored popcorn station that offered take-home Violin Ensemble harmonized beautifully in the background. bags. Outside, the lit up dance floor was in a permanent Crystal carried a bouquet of pink and white peonies and buzz as 2nd Coming Band kept guests dancing into the roses cut from Dana’s Floral Design that complemented night. Ladies slid out of their high heels and into pink the soft summer theme of the evening. As she reached the and brown complimentary flip flops before rocking to end of the aisle, the glowing bride clasped hands with the the band’s Motown sound. When the evening came to a groom, wearing a tan poplin suit touched with pink and close, the elated couple was granted farewell with sparPhotography by Josh Moates and Kim Box | Kim Box Photography his heart on his sleeve. The pair was assortment married by Reverend of Southern klersstyle and then set sail for St. Lucia. John Ed Mathison under a dazzling archway adorned with cuisine from TammyAGriffin’s special thanks to Jackie Gaut of Dana’s Floral Design, delicate pink peonies, roses, green hydrangeas, orchids and in-Moore Bogardus Hair and Makeup, A Catered Affair, Melissa hanging crystals that subtly danced in‘A theCatered breeze. Affair’ that
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Kim Box Photography, Darren Freeman Videography, ks cluded pimento cheese burger Peggy McKinney Design Productions Following the ceremony, guests feasted upon a delicious own Crystal Starr Luster sliders; giant fried green tomatoes; a ham carving station; ert “Trip” Leonard Strickland III chicken, shrimp and beef skewers; mashed potato bar; . The combined talents of RSVP banana pudding shooters and much more. An elegant Gaut rendered an enchanting five-tiered cake laced with pink ribbon and an indulesmerized as the bride, draped in gent chocolate peanut butter cake were baked by Peggy wn from The White Room, was McKinney, and the feasting selection was topped off with her father as The Lamb Family a multi-flavored popcorn station that offered take-home zed beautifully in the background. bags. Outside, the lit up dance floor was in a permanent of pink and white peonies and buzz as 2nd Coming Band kept guests dancing into the al Design that complemented night. Ladies slid out of their high heels and into pink the evening. As she reached the and brown complimentary flip flops before rocking to ng bride clasped hands with the the band’s Motown sound. When the evening came to a in suit touched with pink and close, the elated couple was granted farewell with sparhe pair was married by Reverend klers and then set sail for St. Lucia. dazzling archway adorned with A special thanks to Jackie Gaut of Dana’s Floral Design, s, green hydrangeas, orchids and Melissa Moore Bogardus Hair and Makeup, A Catered Affair, y danced in the breeze.
guests feasted upon a delicious
Kim Box Photography, Darren Freeman Videography, Peggy McKinney Design Productions
Something Old, New, Borrowed & TO DO! By Crystal Strickland
How is wedding planning coming? You hear this question over and over but feel compelled to answer with, “I have so much to do and don’t know where to start!” Well, I’m here to help. When asked to write this article, I was ecstatic to share with you my handy dandy list that I began when I got married. I hope you find it useful in getting ready for your big day. So sit back, relax and happy planning!
Basic to do’s: Publish engagement announcement if you’re planning on doing this Book event designer/planner who will handle directing of ceremony, setup of ceremony and reception, takedown, etc. Start compiling guest list and addresses Work on save-the-dates to be sent out 6-8 months before the wedding (optional) Register, register, register! Purchase thank you cards with current initials and future initials for gifts you will receive at showers and after the wedding Book honeymoon and flight (be sure to book the hotel you are staying in after your wedding also) Make sure passports are up-to-date Get wedding license Determine rehearsal dinner location as well as your bridal shower luncheon Determine getaway (birdseed, lavender, sparklers, shakers, etc.) and getaway car
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Bride Dress (after purchasing, be sure to schedule alterations with plenty of time left) Shoes Earrings Garters (yes, you need two—one to keep and one to throw) Sixpence (for good luck!) Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue Schedule salon appointments for nails, eyebrows, etc. Pick out and order groom’s ring Determine bridesmaids attire, and make sure they order everything in time Purchase gifts for bridesmaids (to be given at bridesmaids luncheon or rehearsal dinner) Purchase honeymoon attire and wedding dress undergarments Send out an itinerary to the entire wedding party highlighting the weekend’s events (including luncheons, where to be and what time, etc.)
Groom Purchase or arrange a rental of wedding attire (suit or tux, tie, shoes, etc.) Order bride’s wedding band—also be sure insurance is covered for both of your rings (the Caribbean is full of newlywed bling!) Determine attire for groomsmen, and make sure they order in time Purchase groomsmen gifts (to be given at rehearsal dinner)
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Something Old, New, Borrowed & TO DO!
Ceremony Needs: Guest book (You will need to order this before your showers so you can include pages for guests at showers. Also, be sure to order extra pages if necessary) Reserve minister/officiant • Schedule a meeting with him before wedding to discuss ceremony and any special things that must be done • Also, book any pre-marital counseling (if doing) Reserve ceremony musicians (pianist, organist, violinist, soloist, etc.) Schedule Scripture readers if having Determine ceremony music and order of service Determine and order ceremony programs
Reception Needs: Cake knives (one for yours and his)
I do. I do.
Goblets or toasting flutes (be sure to get a bottle of champagne or sparkling grape juice to toast with) Guest gifts (optional but can be anything from personalized cups, koozies or candy bars) If having a formal seated dinner, be sure to include seating arrangements and place cards
Breck Honea, Agent 61 Market Place - Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, AL 36117 Bus: 334-272-8423 www.breckhonea.com
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For Mom (MOB): Pick dress for mom Pick shoes Gift or sweet letter thanking for a wonderful day
State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI) State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI) Bloomington, IL 0901033.1 62
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hue studio inc . peppertree center . 334.239.8884 . www.huestudioinc.com
Something Old, New, Borrowed & TO DO!
For Dad (FOB): Pick out a suit/tux for dad Pick shoes Gift or sweet letter thanking for a wonderful day
Venue: Determine type of venue and begin calling to check availability (a lot of venues begin booking more than a year in advance, so be sure to schedule yourself tentatively if you are very interested) Discuss what is included with the venue, room capacity, available rentals, catering options and room regulations with venue coordinator Be sure to ask how long your rental is (a weekend, four hours, etc.)—you also need to find out when your vendors may begin decorating If serving alcohol, be sure to ask if you are allowed to bring your own and if ice is provided Purchase event insurance/liquor liability through your venue or insurance agent (most run around $150) Ask about cleanup responsibilities and the return of a security deposit if one is in place
Caterer: Book caterer and schedule meeting with him/her to discuss menu options and the style of food you are wanting (having a headcount at this point in time is important) *Remember, if allowing guests to bring a date, a wedding of 100 quickly turns to 200—it is important to determine this early on because caterers normally place a dollar amount per head you expect Determine style of reception (buffet, formal dinner, etc.)
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Something Old, New, Borrowed & TO DO!
Caterer (continued): Determine who is responsible for: -Bringing plates, forks, spoons, knives, cups, napkins, cake stands, etc. *Feel free to make your wedding your own with personalized napkins and cups -Bringing trash cans and handling removal of trash at end of the night -Getting ice and coolers -Providing bartenders and/or servers *If serving alcohol, it is important to ask about who will handle serving it -Cleanup See if your caterer can pack you a picnic basket of things from your reception to take with you after the wedding (My husband and I definitely enjoyed this since we were not too worried about eating at our reception!)
Cakes: Determine bride’s cake and groom’s cake (feel free to do what you want! Anything goes these days!)
Photographer: Book photographer Schedule engagement pictures if doing Schedule bridal portrait date if doing (set this around 1-2 months from wedding) -Remember to let your florist know so she can have a bouquet for you -Schedule hair and makeup artist -Remember to have all jewelry and shoes at this point for the shoot -I suggest bringing a white sheet so your dress does not get dirty when you stand and so you can wrap the bottom of your dress in it when moving from location to location If wanting specific pictures on your wedding day, be sure to give your photographer a list of photo “must-haves” with certain family members and friends
66
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Model: Brittany Richardson
Model: Andrea Sexton Photo by: Dianna Paulk
Something Old, New, Borrowed & TO DO!
Something Old something new
Book videographer
Call today for best availability!
Photos by Jon Cook
Videographer: Make sure you give him/her a list also if wanting specifics—it is also great to ask if he/she can get the guests involved by asking them to share a special time they had with the couple or even just a simple congrats! You will love watching it over and over reliving your special day!
Flowers: Determine colors, style and who is handling your flowers Sit down with florist and determine ceremony and reception décor (including centerpieces, altar, aisle markers, runner, bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, etc.)
Entertainment: Book band, DJ, acoustic musician, etc. for reception -After booking, make sure you have all information in the contract including set-up time, break-down time, length of play, break music, equipment and be sure they include the number of band members because their rates may change year to year (you need to get exactly what you are contracted to pay for) Find out what equipment the entertainment is responsible for and what you are responsible for (i.e. speakers, lighting, microphones, etc.)
Alley Station has it all. Chic, modern décor in a beautifully restored historical building. Downtown old Montgomery on the brand-new Alley. Old-fashioned service with state-of-the-art technology and fresh approaches to style. Traditional yet progressive.
Determine wattage and amperage needed to make sure your venue can handle it (if it is an outdoor reception, you may have to rent a generator for power)
Beautiful Rooftop Terrace (Seats up to 350)
Stunning Ballroom (Seats up to 350)
Compile a list of ‘must play’ songs and ‘do not play’ songs
Freedom in choosing your own vendors
Send the band your introduction (Mr. and Mrs. …), first dance song, bride/father dance, groom/mother dance, garter toss and bouquet toss songs
Expert help throughout planning process
334 277 1077
a l l e y s tat i o n . c o m
m a n a g e d b y pa r t n e r s r e a lt y MAR/APR 2012
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Something Old, New, Borrowed & TO DO!
Rentals: Depending on the venue and what is included, you may have to rent a good number of items (tables, chairs, linens, tents, draping, chandeliers, dance floor, staging, lighting, cooling units, heaters, etc.). Remember, unless you are having a full seated dinner, a chair is not necessary for each guest at the reception. Determine delivery and pick-up
Specialty Lighting: Book lighting company if using Determine if you want up-lighting, monogram lighting, gobos, spotlighting, etc. As with the entertainment, make sure the venue has enough amperage to handle your lighting—if not, you may have to rent a generator
Hair/Make-up Artists: Schedule hair and make-up artist if using for wedding and bridal portrait (your bridal portrait is a great trial session, so it is important to have them scheduled then so you figure out exactly how you want your hair and make-up done for the wedding) Ask about doing hair and make-up for your bridal party so you can give them an option to have theirs done as well Finding pictures of hair and makeup that you like is a great way to show exactly what you want
Invitations: Compile addresses onto an Excel spreadsheet Be sure to get formal names and visit Peggy Post’s website for etiquette on addressing if doing it yourself If interested in hiring a calligrapher, make sure you ask the cost of inner and outer envelope addressing as well as the return address Be sure to ask invitation designer/company the weight of the invitation and if extra postage will be needed Mail invitations four to six weeks prior to wedding 70
RSVP MAR/APR 2012
photos by josh moats
Next comes carrying her across the threshold. Thomas O. Patterson, REALTOR速 Residential Sales | Aronov Realty (334) Office: 277-2700 | Direct: 399-0454 Thomas@ThomasOPatterson.com Member Montgomery Area Association of Realtors速
7027 Halcyon Park Drive | Montgomery, AL 36117
resource directory A Catered Affair, p. 59 9138 Eastchase Parkway Montgomery, AL 36117 334.312.1475 acateredaffair.info
Academy Events, p. 73
17 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.318.3047 academychefs@cs.com
AlleyBAR, p. 3
Cake Designs, p.60
205.914.4527 chefdavecarvesice.com
DJ at Large, p. 72
3567 Debby Drive Montgomery, AL 36111 334.288.6900
564 Oliver Road Montgomery, AL 36117 334.260.1732 djatlarge.com
Capital City Club, p. 9 201 Monroe Street, Suite 2100 Montgomery, AL 36104 334.834.8920 capitalmontgomery.com
DJ Oz, p. 67 809 Cutler Ridge Court Opelika, AL 36801 334.705.5428 djozz4music.com
Chanterelle Photography, p. 2
Marriott-Legends at Capitol Hill, p. 37
Kay Meyer Photography, p. 44
Mary Me, p. 33
Kaymeyerphotography.com 850.894.4529
Kim Box Photography,
Doug’s 2, p. 34
p. 13 157 West Main Street Prattville, AL 36067 334.491.0409 kimboxphotography.com
Eve’s Studio, p. 67 2026 Clubview Street
Laser Wellness, p. 29 370 St. Lukes Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.213.0700 alabamalaserandwellness. com
8131 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.396.7120 dougs2.com
166 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.387.3333 alleybarmontgomery.com
8449 Crossland Loop Montgomery, AL 36117 334.202.8489 chanterellephotography.com
Alley Station, p. 69
Charlottes Jewelry p. 42 Montgomery, AL 36106
130 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.277.1077 alleystation.com
Jim Massey, p. 26 505 East South Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.481.1919 jimmassey.com
8161 Vaughn Road 334.262.8888 Montgomery, AL 36116 evesstudiollc.com 334.396.1919 charlottesdiamondjewelers.com Fine Line Engravers, p. 37 1651 Perry Hill Road Allstate Chelsea Patricia Montgomery, AL 36106 Beverage, p. 33,65,75 Photography, p. 4 334.281.7577 130 6th Street 334.324.3599 finelineengravers.com Montgomery, AL 36104 chelseapatricia.com 334.265.0507 Hampstead, p. 6 Allstatebeverage.com Corner on Dentistry, p. 20 5251 Hampstead High Street Dr. Camille Phillips-DMD Montgomery, AL 6116 American Tent and Rental 2415 Central Parkway 334.270.6730 Company, p. 8 Montgomery, AL 36106 hampsteadliving.com 5531 Wares Ferry Road 334.277.2424 Montgomery, AL 36117 thecornerondentistry.com Hello Gorgeous 334.277.6443 Photography, p. 17 Courtyard, p. 20 hellogorgeousphotography. Arrow Rents and Party 2101 Eastern Boulevard com Professionals, p. 63 Montgomery, AL 36117 5600 Calmar Drive 334.272.1001 High Five Productions, Montgomery, AL 36116 p. 11 334.277.0460 Cronier’s, p. 40 2872 Zelda Road Arrowrents.net 2307 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36106 Montgomery, AL 36117 high5productions.com Ashlyn’s Cake 334.272.4995 Cottage, p. 34 croniers.com Hue Studio, p. 63 3761 Grandview Road 8155 Vaughn Road Millbrook, AL 36054 Darren Freeman Montgomery, AL 36116 334.517.6108 Photography, p. 52, 64 334.239.8888 61.215.7827 huestudioinc.com Bill Ingalls darrenphotography.com Photography, p. 63 Icing Illusions, p. 63 1043 Woodley Road David Bromley Ice 40 Carol Villa Drive Montgomery, AL 36106 Sculpture, p. 68 Montgomery, AL 36109 334.264.3333 P.O. Box 130681 334.395.4444 billingalls.com Birmingham, AL 35213 Icingillusions.com
L’Esprit Salon Da Spa,
p. 61 8161 B Seaton Place Montgomery, AL 36116 334.260.0355 lesprit.net
Leslie Bailey Extraordinary Events,
p. 60 334.264.1116 lesliebaileycatering.com
LeRae Events + Design,
2500 Legends Circle Prattville, AL 36066 334.290.1235 marriottcapitolhill.com
334.391.7427 marymebrides.com
Montgomery Catering, p. 5 770 Washington Avenue #117 Montgomery, AL 36104 334.269.0222 montgomery-catering.com
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, p. 73
One Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.240.4333 mmfa.org
Music Garden, p. 33 241 Mendel Parkway East #C Montgomery, AL 36117 800-689-BAND(2263) Nails O’ Naturel, p. 70
8448 Crossland Loop, Suite 163 Montgomery, AL 36117 334.782.4137 nailsonaturel.com
Nancy’s Italian Ice, p. 70 7976 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.356.1403 nancysice.com
p. 62 20 Gardner Road Grady, AL 36036 334.850.4917 leraeevents.com
Painted Pink, p. 34 1941 Mulberry Street Montgomery, AL. 36106 334.834.2220
Look Boutique, p. 71
Personal Touch Events, p. 68
Lush, p. 44
Phoenix Salon and Spa, p. 36 6311 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36117 334.272.4247 phoenixsalonskinandspa.com
1048 East Fairview Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 334.239.7537 2469 Pinnacle Way Prattville, AL 36066 334.290.0928
334.315.2863 lushmakeupart.com
Marquirette’s, p. 76 7818 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.270.0074 marquirettes.com
9920 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery, AL 36117 334.279.6279 onlinepersonaltouch.com
Pro Fitness 3D, p. 71
3251 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 334.356.0992 profitness3d.com
Since 1985
El & Katrina Erby
(334) 260-9732 www.djatlarge.com ENTERTAINMENT TO BUILD A PARTY AROUND. 72
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Reception DĂŠcor, p. 67 205.527.6275-Montgomery and Surrounding Areas 706.322.8196-Columbus, GA and Surrounding Areas receptiondecor01.com Regions Mortgage, p. 68 8301 Crossland Loop Montgomery, AL 36117 334.213.1340 regionsmortgage.com Riverfront Facilities, p. 74 334.625.2100 funontheriver.net
Roux, p. 65
503 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334.56.3814 rouxmontgomery.com
Sadie’s Global Travel, p.34-35 8412 Crossland Loop Montgomery, AL 36117 334.213.0000 sadies.com
Social Event Catering, p. 47 301 East Jefferson Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.265.7181 asocialeventcaterers.com
Southern Wedding Designs, p. 21
4042 Ray Drive Montgomery, AL 36109 334.277.3254
State Farm Insurance, p. 62 Breck Honea 61 Market Place Montgomery, AL 36117 334.272.8423 breckhonea.com
Studio 4619, p. 46 8073 Eastchase Parkway Montgomery, AL 36117 334.271.3778 The Chapel at The Waters, p. 52
334.272.3200 watersal.com
The Renaissance, p. 10 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.532.0700 renaissancemontgomery.com Thomas Patterson, p. 71 Aronov Reality 334.399.0454 Thomas@thomasopatterson.com Touch Of Class Limos, p. 66
4220 Troy Highway Montgomery, AL 36116 334.284.2673 alabamalimo.com
Tucker Pecan, p. 45
350 North McDonough Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.262.4470 tuckerpecan.com
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