Planning your destination wedding or honeymoon has never been so easy! A warm, sunny beach… A villa in Italy… A chalet in the Rocky Mountains… Finding the perfect location is the first step and where better to start than premierbride.com?
Domestic, Tropical and International Locations Travel Tips Destination Fashion
Premier Bride • 1
Central Virginia
2010 Summer/Fall Issue
S P E C I A L FEATURES Jewelers.....................................11 Reception & Banquet Guide........ 52 Bridal Attire................................66 Fashion Preview..........................69 Destinations Honeymoons.........144 Directory of Services.................158 The Planning Place....................161
c o n te n ts rings...................................................... 8
L o cal F eature d We d d i n g s
RECEPTIONS................................. 13
Artemis and Manolis
catering....................................... 38
Page 55
Gowns.............................................. 58 Wedding Planners....... 90 Photography....................... 94 Videography...................... 103
Race to the altar the sadler wedding
Page 63
meghan and travis Page 75
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DREAMS REALLY DO COME TRUE THE PERFECT SURROUNDINGS FOR • BRIDAL LUNCHEONS • BRIDAL SHOWERS • BRUNCHES • INDOOR & OUTDOOR CEREMONY VENUES • REHEARSAL DINNERS • WEDDING RECEPTIONS
If you seek a unique and memorable setting willing to work with you to incorporate your ideas and personal tastes look no further than... WYNDHAM VIRGINIA CROSSINGS HOTEL 1000 VIRGINIA CENTER PARKWAY GLEN ALLEN (RICHMOND), VIRGINIA CALL 804.727.1419 OR VISIT WYNDHAM.COM
All Wyndham hotels are either franchised or managed by us or managed through a joint venture partner. ©2010 Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC. All rights reserved.
c onte n ts CON T. Central Virginia www.pbrichmond.com
owner/publisher
Stephanie Strimple
sales
Stephanie Strimple SUSAN BENZIN
art director
Melodie Tutwiler
for advertising or internet information, write or call Premier Bride at: PO Box 4828 • Glen Allen, VA 23058 Phone: (804) 937-4272 Fax: (804) 360-7847 stephanie.s@premierbride.com
Publisher STEPHANIE STRIMPLE Art Director MELODIE TUTWILER
Executive Publishers Debra A. Sadowski Erv J. Sadowski
General Manager Tracy Havlik
Fashion Director Jean Shonkwiler
Editorial Director Michele A. Holland
Contributing Writer Rachelle Dragani Contributing Artists Jennifer Erdman Editorial Photography The Artist Group artistgroup.net Black Dog Studios blackdogstudios.com Cover/Fashion Location Venice and Greece Cover/Fashion Debbie Daanen Photography Photography debbiedaanen.com Dragonfly Dream Photographers dragonflydestinationphotographers.com
Models Visuelle Productions
All images created by Ross Whitaker are reprinted with permission from HarperCollins, 1997 “The Perfect Wedding”
©
COPYRIGHT 2010 KAI Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in any manner of editorial or graphic content herein without the express written permission of KAI Publishing, LLC is strictly prohibited.
4 • Premier Bride
Cakes.................................................. 112 Flowers......................................... 116 Music & Entertainment........... 121 Invitations & Gifts.... 124 Hair & Makeup..................... 126 Bridal Registry................ 130 Transportation............. 132 Honeymoons...................... 138
Your perfect day just got a little more perfect. Ruth’s Chris provides the perfect setting for all of your dress rehearsal and wedding needs. From intimate affairs to grand occasions, our Sales Manager, Robin Sorensen, will work with you to create an event that’s uniquely tailored to your needs, budget and timing.
Midlothian | 804.378.0600 | 11500 W. Huguenot Rd. Premier Bride • 5
Richmond’s Largest
BRIDAL SHOWS
Everything for your wedding 6 •PBSummer2010Ad.indd Premier Bride1
5/14/10 9:08:16 AM
Meet more than 200 Richmond area wedding experts See exciting fashion shows Find new ideas Taste cakes and catering specialties Receive expert advice Save time and money
August 8, 2010 January 9, 2011 Greater Richmond Convention Center 403 North Third Street
Show hours: 11am - 5pm Tickets $10 at the door $8 in advance from our web site Visit Bella Rosa at 11114 West Broad Street to receive free tickets, while supplies last. Fashion shows presented by
Discover all of your options Show Sponsors
Tickets and More Information at
www.RichmondBridalShowcase.com PBSummer2010Ad.indd 2
Premier •7 5/14/10 Bride 9:08:17 AM
From the Publisher...
Welcome to our summer issue and to one of the most exciting and special times of your life! My goal is not only to provide the experts to make your day uniquely yours, but to offer you indispensable information to make sure you have covered every detail of the wedding as well as starting your new lives together. Planning this enormous event is wonderful, but can be a little overwhelming. In this issue, you will find fabulous photography and wedding stories to inspire you, fashion designers and dresses to excite you, experts to help you look and feel your best, pictureperfect locations for your events, and more! But one of the most valuable treasures you will find in my magazine is information. Along with priceless information come checklists and calendars to make sure you get it done on time. It is a magazine you will hang on to, carry with you, refer to, share with friends, and keep for sentimental and practical reasons. We want to be one of your best friends during this extraordinary time. Enjoy each moment of this very special time in your life. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of it. Please feel free to share your ideas about things you would like to see in future issues. With all good wishes, Stephanie Strimple
8 • Premier Bride
Local Featured Weddings Megan and Michael Page 95
erin and brian Page 113
bonnie and mike Page 123
THE CIRCLE OF LOVE: everything you didn’t know about wedding rings
Rings
Wedding rings have long been a customary symbol of marriage. They say that even in your uniqueness, you have chosen to be bonded and allow the presence of another person to enhance who you are. These rings symbolize the vows you will take—circles without beginning or end— symbols of enduring love and a lifetime of friendship.4 Premier Bride • 9
RINGS
You may already have some idea of what you like, but once you start shopping for your engagement ring you still may find the choices overwhelming. Solitaire, gold, platinum. Matte finish, satin finish. There are so many options, each beautiful in its own way, which means you’re faced with the difficult task of finding the perfect ring that feels and looks just right for you. After your selection then comes the often difficult task of also paying for it. Many people are aware of the twomonth rule, which suggests the value of an engagement ring should equal two months of the groom’s salary. Therefore this makes your purchase a considerable investment. The groom will also be purchasing the bride’s wedding ring, and although tradition indicates that the bride purchase the groom’s wedding ring, some grooms purchase this as well. With such a great deal of money involved, it is imperative to get what you pay for, so here’s a quick guide.
The Stone: Diamond Basics
The most important element to consider when shopping for a diamond is cut, color, clarity and carat--the four Cs. Contrary to popular belief, cut and not carat is the number one factor in determining the value of a diamond.
Cut
A well-cut diamond beautifully directs rays of white light to the diamond’s facets, the small planes on the surface of the stone. The reflected light emanating from the facets defines a stone’s fire and brilliance. Fire is the intensity of the rainbow of colors cast outward in a prism-like effect, while brilliance indicates the amount of sparkle generated. Cut should not be confused with the shape of a diamond, which includes brilliant (round), oval, pear, marquis, emerald, square, heart and triangle.
Color
The color of a diamond is the next
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quality to consider. The best color is no color at all, since an absolutely colorless diamond reflects light most beautifully. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) ranks diamonds on a standard 23-grade scale, from D through Z. D, the highest rating, indicates a perfectly colorless stone, while Z, the lowest rating, indicates a light yellow stone. The color ranges within this scale are colorless, near colorless, very light yellow, and light yellow.
Clarity
Next to consider is the clarity of a diamond, which is defined by the number, color, nature, size and position of natural marks--called inclusions--contained in the gem. Inclusions occur naturally during the process of crystallization, when minute traces of minerals are trapped in the diamond. To determine clarity, an appraiser examines a diamond through a jeweler’s loupe, which magnifies the stone 10 times. The fewer and smaller the inclusions a diamond contains, the greater its clarity and thus its value. Excellent clarity means light is able to pass unimpeded through the stone.
Carat
The carat weight of a diamond is the final consideration. In ancient times, gem size was measured against carob seeds, which are remarkably consistent in weight. One carat equaled the weight of a single carob seed. In today’s terms, a carat is the standard metric weight of 0.2 grams, or 1/142 of an ounce. Another way to indicate a diamond’s weight is in points, with one carat equaling 100 points. So a diamond of 50 points, for instance, equals 1/2 carat. Diamonds of more than one carat are extremely rare (one in a thousand), and therefore very valuable. But remember that carat weight is only one factor in determining value. Two diamonds of the same size can vary considerably in value depending on the other three factors cut, color and clarity.
The Best Jewelers
Richmond has to offer!
E ngagement • R ings W edding B ands • G ifts Adolf Jewelers (Ridge Shopping Center) Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 285-3671 www.adolfjewelers.com Bachrach’s Jewelers 111 East Broad St Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 2648-7830 www.bachrachsjewelers.com Beverly Hills Jewelers 8101 Staples Mill Rd Richmond, VA 23228 (804) 266-0600 beverlyhillsjewelersltd.com Carreras 121 Libbie Avenue Richmond, VA 23226 (804) 282-7018 www.carrerasjewelers.com Cowardin’s 4909 West Broad St Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 359-9277 (800) 381-5050 www.cowardin.com
Haig Kambourian Jewelers Market Square Shopping Center 4828 Market Square Lane Midlothian, VA 23112 (804) 744-0078 Jay Sharpe 3405 West Cary Street Richmond, VA 23221 (804) 353-4733 www.jaysharpe.com Schwarzschild Jewelers 1200 Alverser Plaza Midlothian, VA 23113 (804) 344-0150 3124 West Cary St Richmond, VA 23221 (804) 355-2136 (Short Pump Towne Center) 11800 W. Broad St. Suite 1214 Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 967-0800 www.schwarzschildjewelers.com
for the
B ridal P arty
Stevens Jewelers (Parkside Shopping Center) 10877 West Broad St Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 527-2890 www.stevens-jewelers.com Sycamore Jewelers 4804 Commonwealth Centre Pkwy Midlothian, VA 23112 (804) 744-0903 www.sycamorejewelers.com William Jeffrey’s Jewelers (The Creeks at Virginia Center) 9986 Brook Rd Glen Allen, VA 23059 (804) 264-2600 www.williamjeffreys.com Vera’s Fine Jewelers 16701 Midlothian Trnpk. Midlothian, VA 23113 (804) 794-5671 www.verasfinejewelers.com
Dransfield Jewelers 1308 East Cary Street Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 643-0171 www.dransfieldjewelers.com
Premier Bride • 11
Set the mood.
For a sensuous pause before a highenergy party, have a small jazz quartet set the tone with a wine and micro-beer tasting, served with cheese selections. Photo by blackdogstudios.com
Reception
What you need to know before booking your reception site You’ve been pronounced “husband and wife,” so now it’s time to kick off those heels and celebrate! This is a time for you and your brand new husband to relax, mingle, dance, chat and thoroughly enjoy the company of your friends and loved ones. While finding the ideal reception location is one of the biggest and most important wedding-related tasks, have no fear... we’re here to help. Below are three simple steps to finding the right reception site for your perfect day.4
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Receptions
Step 1: What to do first The biggest question regarding the reception is “where?” Before you can work on this question, however, you’ll need to know a couple of things: what style of wedding do you envision, and how big? Obviously, a casual, relaxed summer afternoon reception would require a completely different reception site than a
formal, elegant winter evening reception – so clarify the type of wedding (and the time of year) you both desire first. Once that’s been established, determine the rough guest list, including all interested parties: you and your groom, and each set of parents. Of course, you’ll also need to consider your budget as well, as this will have great influence on the number of guests you can afford to have. Once you’ve made these critical decisions, it’s time to start looking for the ideal reception site. As with anything, the more time you have, the better – some choice reception sites get booked one to two years in advance, particularly for prime dates.
Step 2: Start the search Local bridal publications, the Internet, wedding shows, married friends and the yellow pages are all good sources of potential reception sites. If you have no idea where to hold your reception, try hotels, banquet halls, restaurants, community centers and country clubs. Other less obvious options are country inns, historic homes or mansions, city parks, college or university facilities, art galleries, museums and boats. Each location offers its own unique style and ambiance. There are two basic types of reception facilities: on-site and off-site. Most on-site locations provide the majority of services you will need for your reception:
16 • Premier Bride
Receptions
catering, beverages, tables, chairs, tableware, linens and serving staff, making this a very convenient option. The facilities normally charge on a per person basis, and have a minimum guest requirement. Such locations include hotels, private clubs and restaurants. Off-site locations offer the use of the facility only, providing no other services. You supply nearly everything yourself, paying a flat fee for the use of the site. The nice thing about off-site locations is the freedom to do everything your own way, and more choices – although this can also mean more work! Narrow down your search by focusing on those sites that seem to best meet your needs, depending on your style, season and estimated guest count. Once you’ve selected some possibilities, it’s time to go on a road trip with your fiancé, maid of honor and/ or Mom and check out the sites in person.
Step 3: Evaluating reception sites Now the real work begins. Every site offers advantages and disadvantages, and your job is to sift through all of the features of each site, to find the best one for your wedding – all while keeping your budget in mind. Here are some factors to consider: Location. The reception site should be no more than a 30-minute drive away from the ceremony location. A longer drive than that is really asking too much of your guests! If the location is difficult to find, or will offer special challenges to get there (say, located near a football stadium that has a home game on your wedding day) you should consider providing transportation for your guests from the ceremony site, and back to their cars after the reception. Premier Bride • 17
Receptions
Size and layout. Will everything happen in one big room, or in separate rooms for the cocktail hour, dinner, dancing? Will it comfortably hold the number of tables you’ll need, and will everyone dine in the same room? Is there room for a band or DJ, and for cocktail hour musicians, if you’re having them? Privacy. If your venue does multiple events, find out if there are other bookings on the same day or time as yours. If so, ensure that there will be adequate privacy and separation for your celebration. There should also be ample time in between events to allow your caterer or other service people to set up or break down your party. 18 • Premier Bride
Parking. Make sure there is convenient, welllighted, ample parking for your guests, and if not, find out if valet service is available. Technical details. Whether you intend to have a DJ or a band, inquire about possible restrictions regarding the type, volume or duration of music. Be sure to confirm that there is an adequate power supply for speakers, mixers and amplifiers, or good acoustics for string and wind instruments. Some sites have built-in public-address systems which can be used for introductions and toasts. If your site of choice doesn’t offer this equipment, make sure your DJ or musicians can provide it. Room décor. Most sites offer a neutral background to work with, but make sure the flooring, wall coverings and colors will work with the style and season of your wedding.
Receptions
Services offered. Be clear, with each site visited, exactly what is and is not included. From catering and wait staff, to candles and chairs… get those details up front.
A note about outdoor receptions If you’re planning an outdoor reception, it’s critical to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. Planning for an outdoor reception is usually much more work overall, because you have to provide for everything from the salad forks to the tents to the chairs, and you may need to change plans at the last minute due to the weather! For these reasons, it’s highly recommended that you use an experienced wedding coordinator if you want an outdoor reception – this will ease your workload, and your stress, immensely.
Down to details As with any wedding vendor, make sure that all details are outlined in writing, and use a credit card whenever possible when making payments so that you have more protection in the unlikely event of a problem. You should feel very comfortable with your contact person, and feel that they respond in a timely and efficient manner to your questions and requests. Visit premierbride. com’s online wedding planner for a comprehensive list of questions to ask potential reception sites, and other great wedding planning help.
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Outdoor Weddings ideas that capture your personality
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lue skies, a gentle breeze, birds chirping, the setting sun‌ an outdoor wedding reception is a beautiful way to embrace the season! After all, no one is a better decorator than Mother Nature. Take her cues and include fresh, bright colors and lavish, luxurious dÊcor, sprinkled with unique one-of-a-kind pieces. Like nature, think texture, layers and depth. And always, always have a back-up plan. As we know all too well, Mother Nature is unpredictable!
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Feet
Choosing where to wed your ceremony location For centuries churches and synagogues have been the traditional choice for the sacred act of exchanging vows. Lending an air of reverence and dignity to even the most casual of ceremonies, these holy places have created the perfect setting for the formal commitment of marriage. There are many unique options for couples who, for whatever reason, would prefer an alternate location. Consider holding the event at a nondenominational church or chapel. These locations usually have fewer rules and guidelines than other formal houses of worship, yet still provide a spiritual setting. Have the ceremony at the reception venue. Couples often choose this option as a convenience for their guests, minimizing the distance one must travel from ceremony to 24 • Premier Bride
reception. Facilities that provide this option normally have separate areas for each event, or a plan for quickly converting the room. Sometimes places with the most personal significance make the best ceremony locations. For example, a park you walked through on your first date, the backyard where one of you grew up or a relative’s home where you enjoy spending time are all good choices. If you love the outdoors, consider holding your ceremony at a city park, the beach, a zoo, or even at the foot of a national landmark. If you’re a little on the daring and outrageous side, you might consider exchanging vows while sky diving from a plane, scuba diving, or in a hot air balloon. Whatever your preference, there is no right or wrong way to say “I do.” B
Just a Click Away planning on the internet
Overwhelmed by all the tasks that have to be completed when you plan your wedding? Looking for great ideas? You probably already have access to stress-relieving help. A wealth of information, advice and planning tools are all just a click away with the use of your personal computer. When timeliness and accuracy counts, turn to your computer to manage everything. User-friendly, event-planning software can help you orchestrate your wedding day like a fine symphony. You can manage your guest list, track vendor information, make travel and honeymoon plans, automatically calculate your expenses, maintain to-do lists and more, all with the click of a mouse. You can even print forms and reports, providing accurate and uniform information to work from. The usefulness of your wedding planning software won’t stop after the wedding. You can use it to plan events, maintain phone and address lists, print labels, even help your friends with their wedding lists and needs. With the exponential growth of the Internet, there is an endless library of information available on every topic, and weddings are no exception. You’ll find a broad spectrum of information on everything from how-to’s to don’t do’s to helpful advice and reviews, ideas, planning tips, travel and beyond. Start your search at premierbride.com. There, you will find information on local vendors and necessary information to make your planning easier. Check back periodically for your chance to win a number of different prizes and unique giveaways throughout the year. B Premier Bride • 25
Unique ceremonies special locations
Do you and your groom have a love of history, fine art or nature? If so, you may want to hold your reception at a historic home, country inn, art museum or park. Unique sites like these can help create an interesting and memorable event for you and your guests. Popular locations require advance booking, usually six months to a year before the wedding date. Most require a 50 percent deposit when you reserve them, with the balance due seven to 10 days before the event. Refundable security deposits are usually required, and some facilities may request a special liability insurance policy. In selecting a unique reception site, consider the different restrictions regarding food, alcohol, smoking, music and hours of operation. Some locations may require that you use an in-house caterer or one chosen from a preferred list. Some sites will provide 26 • Premier Bride
tables and chairs, but many require that you or your caterer provide your own furniture, as well as linens and china. Check the kitchen facilities, as many sites have only a small kitchen or require that caterers bring a tent for food set up and service. Keep in mind that not all unique sites will allow you to have your reception inside the facility. Often historic homes are available for your guests to tour, but the event itself must be held in the gardens. If that is the case, be sure to include money in your budget for a tent to accommodate your guests in case of rain. Make sure your special site is appropriate for your wedding needs and fits your unique style. A historic home may not be able to accommodate hundreds of guests, while a formal museum might not be right for a very casual wedding.
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The Mill at Fine Creek
An enchanting setting for your special events and celebrations
Listed on the Virginia Historic Landmark Registry & National Registry Full-service catering and floral design on premises provided by Bella Flora
804.379.8211
www.themillatfinecreek.com
Premier Bride • 27
Willow Manor Country Estate and Bed & Breakfast
Elegant, Enchanting and Unforgettable A Perfect Setting for Your Ceremony, Reception, Rehearsal Dinner or Bridal Tea An Estate on Over Twenty Acres Only Minutes from Richmond and Williamsburg in the Historic Plantation District Packages include Large Tent, Dining Tables, Chairs and Lodging in Guest Cottage Professional Catering and Event Planning Services Available
804.966.1411
eventsatwillowmanor.com 28 • Premier Bride
Here comes the groom complementing the bride
The attire of the groom, best man and ushers should complement the bride’s dress. The men need not dress identically. The groom’s selection will depend upon his coloring and build, the bride and her attendant’s dress color and style, the season, time of day and personal taste. Darker colors have a slimming effect. Ties, cummerbunds or suspenders that are the same color as the bridesmaid’s dresses will bring the entire wedding party together. If the men in the wedding party are identically dressed, you may wish to set the groom apart. A slightly different boutonniere or neckwear accomplishes this effectively. Consult a menswear professional for ideas and to discuss what is available and most appropriate. Tuxedos should be reserved three months in advance and all
measurements taken at least three weeks prior to the wedding. Out of town groomsmen can have their measurements taken at a men’s formal wear store near them and forwarded to the formal wear store through whom you have reserved your tuxedos. Rented formal wear usually includes a jacket, vest or cummerbund, pants, suspenders, shirt, cufflinks, studs and a tie. Usually, shoes are rented from the same store to maintain consistency. Find out when the tuxedos may be picked up and when they must be returned. Have all the men try them on a few days beforehand for last minute adjustments. The groom also has the option of purchasing his tuxedo or having it tailormade. Purchasing a tux gives the groom a suit of permanent pride for other formal occasions.
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Premier Bride • 29
Divorced parents
dealing with the situation
If your divorced parents are on good terms, count your blessings. If they are not, or if their relationship is marginal, correct handling of these delicate matters can help avoid any unwanted tensions. There are several alternatives you should consider in planning your church wedding and reception arrangements to accommodate your divorced parents. According to protocol, the parent with whom you have lived the longest issues the invitations. The other parent is usually not mentioned unless both parties agree to each of their names being represented. Protocol, however, does not always create good feelings. Try to include both parent’s names on the invitation. When you’re introducing your parents to your future in-laws, it is usually proper to introduce the parent with whom you have lived the longest, then introduce your other parent shortly afterward. The bride’s father should always walk his daughter down the aisle, except under extenuating circumstances. If that is not possible, a substitute can stand in for the father. A brother, uncle or close family friend will be fine. Special church seating arrangements can help smooth rough spots. The bride’s mother and her immediate family (parents, husband and children) are seated in the first row. The second row is left empty to afford a better view for the bride’s father, who, after giving her away, is seated with his immediate family in the third row. The same seating arrangement pertains to the groom’s family if they are divorced. The small amount of time and attention devoted to handling these matters will reward you with a day that is as free of tension as it can possibly be.
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Engagement party let the party begin
host the engagement party. Sometimes the After the engagement ring has been groom’s parents will also be interested in slipped on your finger and the excitement helping to host. However, don’t get caught over your impending new life together has up in outdated rules. If you and your fiancé finally settled in, someone will approach want to host this event then do it. you and want to give you an engagement party. Engagement parties, often thrown by • Be sure that the people you invite to the a family member or good friend, are quite engagement party are also guests you will popular. However, remember that there are invite to the wedding and reception. some etiquette rules to follow when your • Gifts are not necessary at an engagement putting this important event together. party, but if you do receive something then • The party should be held at the beginning politely thank the person giving the gift and of your engagement. It’s not about the perhaps open it later. wedding, but about the particular exciting • Usually the engagement announcement is time during your engagement. What a made during a toast by the bride’s father or great time for all your family and friends to the fiancé. This depends on how traditional admire your engagement ring, right? you want to keep things. This is “the” time • Invite individuals who are close not only to that your engagement is made public and, you, but also the groom. while most people probably already know, some of your guests might be surprised. • Traditional it is the bride’s parents that
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Premier Bride • 31
Friday or Sunday saves you money
If cost is a factor in your wedding budget, consider planning your wedding for a Friday or Sunday. Choosing a day not in high demand can be less expensive and more relaxing, and there are other benefits as well: • You’ll find everyone you must engage for a wedding service more open to negotiation, sometimes reconsidering price or adding extras. • Vendors will probably cheer your off-day business by doing an extra-attentive job. • Wedding services can book Saturdays far in advance, but Fridays and Sundays can require less notice. Choosing a Friday or Sunday also allows you to avoid making several calls to numerous vendors, only to hear, “Sorry, we’re booked on that date.” • Getting married on alternative days suits the bride who prefers less pressured planning. • It’s more likely that a hotly requested band, emcee, photographer, videographer or caterer will be on hand for the wedding of your dreams • Getting treasured guests into town may be easier if extra or early days are options. • On a Friday, you’ll probably have your wedding in the evening, which means that the ceremony is followed immediately by dinner. This means that you will avoid the extra cost and hassle of a one-to-two-hour interim reception or cocktail party. Having the ceremony and reception back to back may ensure more people at the church ceremony. • The rehearsal dinner could be easier and less costly for a restaurant if it was scheduled on a Thursday as opposed to a Friday night.
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32 • Premier Bride
Table Settings Your Perfect table setting: ideas that capture your personality
Low lights and a formal table setting embrace guests with luxurious ambience. Although the most formal reception tables will be uniformly set, creative license can still rule the day. Don’t be afraid to break away from the white tablecloths and the flowers in a glass vase. Experiment with burnished fabrics or gilt accents. Use seasonal elements to reinforce the festive spirit of your wedding. Most of all, make your celebration reflect you and your groom’s personality and tastes.
Budget wisely.
Don’t forget that taxes and gratuities can be a large chunk of your food and beverage costs, so make sure you’re including these in your budget.
Photo by Artistgroup.net
Cater ing
7 steps to the perfect wedding cuisine Almost every meaningful ritual, in every culture around the globe, includes food as an integral part of the celebration. “Breaking bread together” is an intimate way for people to share an experience, enjoy each other’s company and enhance the sense of ritual. The food and beverage served at your wedding is a significant element in the whole wedding ritual, as well as a significant chunk of your overall budget… so invest the time, energy and budget necessary to do this part well!4
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CATERING
Step 1: Start the search. Your search for a caterer begins once you have selected the site for your reception. Some locations require that you use their in-house caterer or banquet department, which makes your choice fairly simple. Locations that have this requirement include hotels, country clubs and some of the more unusual facilities such as museums, boats or historical homes. You may also be asked to select an independent caterer from a pre-approved list. If you are in a position to select your own caterer, try to narrow down your list to no more than three; otherwise, you will be tasting food for a month. When you call each caterer, have as much information ready as possible such as your wedding date, time of day, approximate number of guests and the degree of formality and style. If you have 40 • Premier Bride
any general menu ideas or preferences, let the caterer know so they can be better prepared for your initial meeting. If possible, have them send you some sample wedding menus and references to review beforehand.
Step 2: Determine your service style. At the initial meeting, caterers will want to discuss your tastes and budget in detail. Your choices will most likely include the following options: a sit-down meal, a buffet, passed hors d’oeuvres or food stations. Your caterer will be able to describe all of these options and their appropriateness for the time of day, number of guests and style.
Step 3: Schedule a tasting. When you finally narrow down your service style, most caterers will ask to arrange a time for you and your fiancé
CATERING
to sample their cuisine. This is called a tasting, and it usually takes place at the caterer’s establishment. It may coincide with another event they’re catering and they will simply prepare two extra meals. If you’ve indicated a preference for the less ordinary, however, they may prepare some of their more unusual items for your approval.
Step 4: Design the menu. Start by searching through magazines, web sites, and bridal shows to clarify your likes and dislikes, along with anything you know you want or don’t want. Armed with this information, work closely with your caterer to craft the perfect wedding menu for you and your guests. The number of guests you expect at your wedding, level of formality, the time of day and your budget all have great influence on your menu selection… so rely on the professional experience of your caterer to take all of these elements into consideration. When selecting your menu items you might also want to bear in mind that there is a real trend towards “healthy eating” and you may have a few vegetarians as well.
Step 5: Calculate the cost. Once you’ve selected a caterer, it’s time to get down to business. Money. Most caterers base their prices on a per-person cost. Facilities with in-house catering departments may have a minimum charge or set-up fee, while an off-premises caterer will usually work within any reasonable, agreed-upon budget. It’s relatively easy to calculate the overall food cost, which equals the number of guests multiplied by the cost per person. Some caterers offer lower prices or special menus for children, so be sure to let them know the number of children in attendance. Mentally add an additional 10 percent for overage, and 15 to 20 percent for a gratuity, if appropriate. Remember, typically the wedding cake is not included in the meal cost.
Check out our website for the latest location and date for
Meet the DJ Night
Sponsored by Premier Bride CATERING
Your final guest count is usually required one week before the event. This will be the minimum number of people for which you will actually be charged. Most caterers will plan on the addition of a few last-minute guests and will add the meals to the bill after the wedding. Although it is not required, you may consider including meals for weddingrelated personnel, such as the DJ, musicians, photographer and wedding consultant. If cost is an issue, ask your caterer about “vendor meals.” These meals are more casual than the guest menu and are offered at a lower cost per person. Remember to get specifics as to what extras are included in the caterer’s charges, such as table linens, plates, glasses, crystal, silverware and service pieces. You don’t want any surprises on your wedding day – at least not this kind.
Step 6: Plan the help. Once the menu is finalized, the next step is determining the number of wait staff you will need to serve your feast and keep your reception running smoothly. Your caterer will certainly help with this, but a general guideline is one server for every 10 to 12 guests for a sit-down dinner. In addition, providing a full and open bar will require more staffing than a limited bar with wine, beer and soft drinks. Be sure to confirm the proper attire for the wait staff beforehand so it is in keeping with the degree of formality for your reception.
Step 7: Finalize the details, in writing. Ensure that your catering contract details all of the particulars of your reception. Premier Bride • 43
CATERING
Specify the day, date and time; the address of the site; food items by course and the number of guests covered; provisions for special meals; the time of the cocktail hour; the time the meal will be served; contact people, including someone from your end with whom the caterers can consult; the number of servers and bartenders and their uniforms; linens; beverages to be served and bar guidelines; terms of payment; and liability insurance. Typically, an advance deposit is due when you sign the contract and remember to check on the cancellation policy for unforeseen events.
Unique Ideas in Catering Please pass the potatoes. If you love spuds, consider a “mashed potato bar” serving a delicious variety of mashed potatoes, served in martini glasses and drizzled with the guest’s choice of gravy or sauce. Or, a more casual option is a “baked potato bar” with plenty of ‘tators, and a bevy of toppings. A trip around the world. Give your guests a culinary trip across the globe, with a variety of food stations offering a wide range of ethnic food… Moroccan, Italian, Asian, French, to name a few ideas. Personalize your “cheers!” Work with your experienced bartender to create a custom cocktail just for you two, to serve during cocktail hour. Name it after the two of you, or after something near and dear to your hearts (such as the city you met in.) Sweet tooth? In addition to your wedding cake, or instead of it, entice your guests with a dessert table such as a cannoli bar, an ice cream buffet or a mini-pastry display.
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NOTES
Gifts of hope
The bridal shower is a celebrated tradition inviting you to enjoy a gesture from your friends while also putting you in the spotlight. The number of guests is up to the hostess, however select from those who know you well enough to also be at your wedding. It’s tasteful not to include any one guest at more than two parties where gifts are given. Otherwise, specifically tell friends that one gift will be plenty if they are ask to attend more than two bridal showers. Shower themes range from traditional housewares, gourmet kitchen parties or personal showers that shout sex, fun and friendship, including laughs over the lingerie. Expect the creative types to concoct poems or dishes to spice up the day. Most importantly, remember to keep a good sense of humor and enjoy the attention and thought that went into planning and coordinating your bridal shower.
a traditional bridal shower
Any theme involving clothing needs your size and color preference. It may be helpful to visit a lingerie store before hand, and try on several items to determine the most comfortable and flattering styles and sizes. You have the option of listing stores where your registry is on record. At the engagement party the traditionminded father announces the engagement with a toast, followed by the groom’s short speech of thanks. This celebration is normally attended by close family, friends, and the bridal party. Gifts should not be expected. The soon-to-be-married are also feted at parties by bridal attendants and groomsmen. Have hostesses contact those on your guest list at least a few weeks in advance. Tradition suggests you express gratitude in writing to all who give you presents and parties. Premier Bride • 45
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Off-premise catering personalized events
Imagine a formal tea in a centuries-old rose garden, a hip happening in a refurbished retro movie theatre, or a poolside banquet at your favorite relative’s beautiful home. Call it formal. Call it casual. Either way, it’s only for you. You can easily and affordably achieve whatever effect you desire by planning your reception party, and even your entire event, with an off-premises catering service. Off-premises catering is an attractive alternative to the more common reception choices like hotels and country clubs. They allow you to create a very personalized 46 • Premier Bride
event that can cost up to 30 percent less than many inside catered affairs. With more experience in designing and handling custom menus than restaurants or hotels, off-premises caterers can offer very imaginative, tasty menus. Many caterers have professional in-house pastry chefs who will design a wedding cake especially for you. If you know you want a personalized event, but don’t know exactly what you’re looking for, some off-premise caterers work closely with various specialty party facilities and can help you decide what’s right for you. Some also offer free full-service wedding consulting and event planning, providing you with hassle-free planning for everything from flowers and invitations to dining, entertainment and even travel.
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Fun Bridal Showers! Fill her kitchen with quality, lifetime-guaranteed Tupperware! Home, Catalog, Online Parties, Theme Parties and Business Opportunities also available! Call or visit my website for more information!
Jody Harmon, Independent Tupperware Consultant 804-559-9677 • 804-513-4964 jody.harmon18@yahoo.com
http://my2.tupperware.com/JODYHARMON
Stress-Free Planning 4 tips to keep you going
You’re engaged – hooray! Now the fun begins (you think) of planning a lovely wedding… trying on wedding dresses, registering for gifts, choosing the perfect party favor… fun, fun, fun. Then reality sets in, and you discover that planning a wedding takes an incredible amount of work. It requires making countless decisions, handling thousands of details, juggling endless tasks and errands, and doing it all while also maintaining your relationships, job, life and sanity. What’s a stressed-out bride-to-be to do? We’ve got some suggestions for you!
Stay organized. The two critical elements of staying organized include keep everything together in one assigned location and write everything down.
Get help. The very best thing you could do for a stress-free experience (and a relaxing, stress-free wedding DAY) is hire a wedding consultant. Many couples feel that this just ‘isn’t for them’ and yet, without question, it could make the critical difference between having a fun, enjoyable wedding experience, and having a grueling one.
Take breaks. Take regular restorative Start early. Obviously, the more time you have to plan, the more breathing breaks from wedding planning where you room you have, and the more options don’t think about, talk about, or work on you’ll have for wedding vendors. anything wedding-related. And remember there is life beyond the wedding! 48 • Premier Bride
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Reception
9 Golden Rules for a Great Wedding Reception Create a night to remember with thoughtful planning
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Success is in the details. When, what, who, in what order... Think through the evening and have a clear plan for the entire event. And then, clearly communicate this plan to all interested parties: your catering manager, the wedding party, parents, etc. Consider the schedule and details of events such as the following: cocktails, dinner, grand entrance, toasts, specialty dances and so on. The more you plan ahead, the more you can relax and go with the flow at your reception.
50 • Premier Bride
The music and entertainment is the KEY to a good party. Bad or inappropriate music and entertainment can kill a party faster than anything else, so spend the time necessary to select a good band or DJ. Find someone who can match the style and tone of YOUR wedding, can ‘read’ the crowd and keep the guests happy, and will respect your wishes. Be clear and specific about any songs or events that you do NOT want at your wedding.
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The case for YMCA hats and the Macarena... So you may find the Chicken Dance and the Hokey Pokey and colorful maracas or other props to be ‘cheesy’ but you know what – many guests love them and the key to a good party is to appeal to a wide variety of tastes and wishes. Let your bandleader or DJ use their professional experience and skills to create a fun evening, based on the feedback they receive from some key people – your guests.
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Tips for toasting. A convenient time for toasts is just after the first course is served. This gives the servers enough time to ensure that all guests have a drink (nice to have if you’re toasting!) and is still early enough in the evening that you’re likely to have everyone’s attention. Most couples start with the best man, though some start with the bride’s father, so choose the order that works for you and communicate it to all parties. Be sure to encourage any and all toasters to keep their words BRIEF (no more than a few minutes each) and discourage off-color jokes, too much personal information or ‘inside’ jokes, and any other inappropriate content. If you have any toasters you’re worried about, perhaps you could ask them to write out what they plan to say ahead of time and show it to you!
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fade it out after a few minutes... You’ll be surprised at how long even three minutes feels – to you and your guests – when you’re alone in the center of the dance floor with all eyes on you! Yummy food. Whatever food you serve doesn’t have to be expensive or super fancy gourmet, but it should taste good. Enough said!
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A way to keep ’em dancing… Ideally, it’s great if there is a bar near the dance floor. People tend to congregate near the bar, and this way the non-dancers will still be close to the party people: the dancers. It’s also easier for guests to move seamlessly on and off the dance floor. You’ll find that the dance floor is more easily filled if it’s located near a bar!
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The first dance: “don’t wait forever to do it and don’t do it forever.” A good time to do the first dance (and other specialty dances) is just after dinner – to kick off the party portion of the evening and keep the energy going. If any song you’ve selected is over three minutes, you may want to have your bandleader shorten it up or have your DJ
Focus on your guests. You and your groom are really the hosts of this shindig… and it’s always good to be a gracious host. Take some time to envision the day from your guests’ point of view, and do whatever you can to make sure their experience is smooth, relaxing and fun. This will truly make it a wedding they’ll remember!
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The bride and groom set the mood. Finally – the most important rule of all: the mood of the newlyweds (joyful, stressed, happy or unhappy) influences the entire wedding, and affects the mood of your guests. If you think you might be worried and stressed out about all of the endless details on your wedding day, then consider hiring a wedding coordinator – even if it’s just for the day of the wedding only. It is worth every single penny if it means you (and your guests) can actually ENJOY your wedding day!
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Reception Banquet
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i n f o r m a t i o n
Amber Grove Inn 16216 Genito Rd Mosely, Virginia 639-7717 (See page 27)
Celebrations at the Reservoir 4801 Woolridge Rd Moseley, Virginia 739-9015 (See page 18) Chez Foushee Restaurant 203 N. Foushee St Richmond, Virginia 648-3225 (See page 30) Clover Forest Plantation 5371 Whittcamp Rd Goochland, Virginia 457-3535 (See page 24) Commonwealth Park Suites Hotel 9th & Bank Street Richmond, Virginia 343-7300 (See page 25) Courtyard by Marriot Richmond North/Glen Allen 10077 Brook Road Glen Allen, Virginia 23059 266-6900 (See page 22) Crowne Plaza 555 E. Canal Street Richmond, Virginia 344-2972 (See page 34) Cultural Center of India 6641 Ironbridge Pkwy Chesterfield, Virginia 536-2524 (See page 45)
Dance Masters Richmond 5008 Lakeside Ave 262-9587 Colonial Heights 123 Pickwick Ave 520-8100 (See page 73) Dellwood Plantation 6100 Woodpecker Rd Chesterfield, Virginia 590-0995 (See page 54) Europa 1409 E. Cary St Richmond, Virginia 643-0911 (See page35) Hilton Garden Inn Richmond Airport 441 International Center Drive Sandston, Virginia 23150 222-3338 (See page 22) Hilton Garden Inn Southpark Colonial Heights 800 Southpark Blvd Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834 520-0600 (See page 22) Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa Short Pump 12042 West Broad St Richmond, Virginia 23233 364-3600 (See page 22)
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Historic Mankin Mansion 4300 Oakleys Lane Richmond, Virginia 737-7773 (See page 1) Holiday Inn Petersburg Fort Lee 401 East Roslyn Rd Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834 520-5880 (See page 22) Holiday Inn Richmond Airport 445 International Center Dr Sandston, Virginia 23150 236-1111 (See page 22) Maggiano’s Short Pump Town Center 253-0900 (See page 31) Main Street Station 1500 East Main St Richmond, Virginia 523-3328 (See page 46) Maymont 1700 Hampton St Richmond, Virginia 23220 358-7166 (See page 12) Montpelier Center for Arts & Education 17205 Mountain Rd Montpelier, Virginia 883-7378 (See page 30) Old St. John’s Church Old St. John’s Church Lane - Hwy 30 King William, Virginia 769-4560 (See page 46)
Omni Richmond Hotel 100 S. 12th St Richmond, Virginia 344-7000 (See page 23) Richmond Marriott West 4240 Dominion Blvd Glen Allen, Virginia 965-9500 (See page 28) Ruth’s Chris 11500 W. Huguenot Rd Midlothian, Virginia 378-0600 (See page 5) The Berkeley Hotel 1200 E. Cary St Richmond, Virginia 780-1300 (See page 35) The Colony Club 10 E. Franklin St Richmond, Virginia 775-2323 (See page 16) The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen 2880 Mountain Road Glen Allen, Virginia 261-6211 (See page 44) The Dominion Club 6000 Dominion Club Dr Glen Allen, Virginia 360-1200 (See Back Cover) The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing 4708 East Old Main Street Richmond, Virginia 622-BOAT (See page 15)
The Boathouse at Sunday Park 4602 Mill Ridge Pkwy Midlothian, Virginia 744-2545 (See page 15) The Hard Shell 1411 East Cary Street Richmond, Virginia 643-2333 (See page 36) The Marquee 3015 Cutshaw Ave Richmond, Virginia 355-4687 or 95-9299 (See page 19) The Mill at Fine Creek 2434 Robert E. Lee Rd Powhatan, Virginia 379-8211 (See page 27) The Place at Innsbrook / VA Catering 4036 - C Cox Rd Glen Allen, Virginia 346-2100 (See page 16) The Renaissance Conference Center 107 W. Broad St (Suite 401) Richmond, Virginia 649-3373 (See page 17) The Water Grill 3411 West Cary St Richmond, Virginia 353-3411 (See page 33) The Westin Richmond 6631 West Broad St Richmond, Virginia 564-6333 (See page 12)
Valentine Richmond History Center 1015 E. Clay St Richmond, Virginia 649-0711 (See page 29) Weddings At Lake Anna 937-8608 (See page 26) Willow Manor Country Estate 6311 South Courthouse Road Providence Forge, Virginia 966-1411 (See page 28) Winterham Plantation 11441 Grub Hill Church Rd Amelia, Virginia 561-4519 (See page 25) Wyndham Richmond Airport 4700 S. Laburnum Ave Richmond, Virginia 226-4300 (See page 49) PremierBride Bride• •53 53 Premier
August 8, 2010 • 1-5pm
Doubletree Hotel, Charlottesville, VA
February 27, 2011 • 1-5pm Holiday Inn Select, Richmond, VA
Artemis & Manolis
We met while I was working as a waitress at the Crazy Greek Restaurant. Manolis came in one night for dinner with two of his coworkers. He noticed me right when he walked in and instantly knew that I was his one and only. He called me over to his table and had a short chat about the city of Richmond (he lives in Maryland and was in Richmond for work). After that night, Manolis had returned several times to the restaurant to ask me out, but I was never working on those nights that he came. He eventually met and befriended a long-time friend of mine who had us meet together where we exchanged numbers. On February 15th, we went out on our first date and we became inseparable since! A week before my college graduation, Manolis wanted to take me out for dinner to celebrate. Little did I know that he was planning to pop the question that night. I had absolutely no idea … it was a very surprising and romantic candlelight proposal! The dress was my mothers! The original diamond white gown was long sleeved and had a high neck. It was redesigned into a strapless dress made of silk taffeta with silk organza overlay and embellished with the original gowns Alencon French lace adorned with seed pearls and clear beads. I also wore my mother’s original fingertip mantila veil and detachable cathedral length train (both embellished with the matching lace and seed pearls). Berry Red was the prominent color in my wedding. All of my bridesmaids are quite differently shaped, so I wanted them to wear a dress that would complement their body types. I had each wear a different style of floor-length dress, but with the same color and fabric. Once the dresses were chosen, there were not many colors to choose from … the red just happen to be everyone’s favorite. It’s also the color of love!!!!
What was the most memorable thing about your wedding? “I now pronounce you husband and wife”!!!! Manolis and Artemis officially became one!! Also we had a lot of family and friends there to celebrate our special day together … many from out-of-town and as far away as Greece and California. Manolis’ answer: “Artemis walking down the aisle” I have been to several weddings and I wanted to have our reception at a venue that I had not been to before (I wanted my wedding to be different). Since Greek weddings tend to be quite big (we had about 300 guests), there are not many facilities that can accommodate the load. Wyndham Virginia Crossings had a beautiful view and was very convenient for out of town guests … they had lots of free parking, guest rooms near the reception site, and activities like golfing for the guests. At the start of our reception while dinner was being served, we had a slideshow presented of pictures of Manolis and I growing up followed by a special short “Engagement Video” created by United Wedding Films. It was something that neither of us had seen at a wedding before, so it made our wedding quite unique. Also, we had a children’s room set up with a couple of babysitters … this allowed the parents to enjoy their time without having their children at their feet! There really was no theme, but I love butterflies… so the flower decorations were adorned with butterflies, there were Swarvoski crystal butterflies in my bouquet. Your wedding day is just that … YOUR DAY! So don’t stress out over the details. Just enjoy yourself and don’t worry about what other people think. As long as you are happy, then your wedding is perfect!!
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Premier Bride Wedding Professionals
Photographer: Quarterman Photography
Venues: The ceremony was performed at Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral and the reception was at Wyndham Virginia Crossings Resort Cake: A Cake to Remember
Videography: United Wedding Films
Bridesmaids Dresses: Tiffany’s Bridal 56 • Premier Bride
Prepare to spend a little more. Remember that just because it’s a great price doesn’t mean it’s a great dress for you. And don’t forget to bring along a pad of paper and track styles, dress names and numbers.
Photo by Artistgroup.net
Gowns
6 easy steps to the gown of your dreams Ahhhh… The Dress. Your wedding gown is probably the most expensive, most scrutinized, most photographed piece of clothing you’ll ever buy. No pressure, right? For many women, shopping for their wedding dress is the highlight of the wedding planning experience, but for some, it can be quite stressful.4
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GOWNS
In the succinct words of one harried bride, “no one tells you how stressful dress shopping can be!” Hopefully the tips shared here will help you have a pleasurable shopping experience. One: Shop early. Ideally, start 8-12 months before the wedding. If you have less time than this, that’s fine too, but starting as early as possible will make the whole experience less stressful and pressured. Also, in the unlikely event that a problem arises, you will have more time to solve it. Another tip about when to shop: bridal salons are busiest from January through April, and Saturday is their busiest day. If it’s possible for you to shop on a weekday, you’ll probably find it to be a more leisurely, relaxing experience. Be sure to make an appointment, if required, to ensure one-on-one service while you’re there. Two: Expect great service. Most negative experiences revolve around service. If you’re not happy with the service you’re getting, move on. Also, your idea of great service may be quite different from another bride’s idea. Two brides-to-be had very different reactions to the same bridal salon: one loved the attentive, very involved service, and the other felt it was too confining and restrictive. So it’s not always about good versus bad service, but also about the type of service with which YOU are most comfortable. Three: Remain open-minded. In one survey, 40% of brides indicated that they ended up with a dress style completely different than what they had planned on buying. It is so important to try on a variety of dress styles, to see how they look on your body type, and to see how you feel in each of them. Be open-minded to the 60 • Premier Bride
GOWNS
suggestions of your sales consultant – they have a lot of experience to offer! Also, a number of brides have found that when they saw the dress on the hanger, they didn’t care for it, but once they tried it on, it was “The Dress.” Four: Be clear about your budget. Save yourself time and heartache, and be upfront about what your budget is – not only with yourself, but also with your sales consultant. How stressful to find a dress you love, and discover it’s hundreds of dollars more than you planned to spend. Whatever your budget is, if you keep looking you WILL find a dress you love within it. And don’t forget about accessories and alterations! These two items can add up to a big part of your wedding attire budget. Five: Bring one or two supportive people with you. A large group of differing opinions can be overwhelming, so it’s best to keep the entourage to a minimum.
On the other hand, having a couple supportive, helpful people with you can provide valuable feedback and suggestions. Do whatever works for you, and what feels most comfortable. Six: Get every detail in writing. Don’t leave the salon without a piece of paper that outlines every single detail, including the color, size, and style ordered, the deposit paid, and the estimated date of arrival. Two to three weeks after you order your dress, call the salon and verify that your dress was ordered, and that the estimated date of arrival has not changed. The bottom line is, if you’re having a stressful time shopping for your wedding dress, stop what you’re currently doing and make changes: visit a different salon, try a different time of the week, or bring different people with you. Or, just take a breather from shopping for a Premier Bride • 61
GOWNS
while! And remember, finding your dress is like finding your soul mate: sometimes they reveal themselves to us quickly and easily, sometimes they are more challenging to find, but we always find them in the end, and it’s always worth the wait.
Keeping Your Dress Clean on Your Wedding Day • Use an antiperspirant, not just a deodorant in order to keep your dress clean on your wedding day. • If your bouquet flowers have stamens that could stain, ask your florist to remove them. • When touching up your makeup, be certain to drape something across your chest and over your shoulders in case of a dropped tube of lipstick or powder. • Gather up your long skirt to keep the hem off the ground. • Have someone make sure the car you are riding in is clean. Cover the seat and floor with a sheet or protective cover. • Bring a travel iron or steamer and an extension cord to the ceremony and reception. • Bring your garment bag to transport your gown after you have changed into your traveling clothes. 62 • Premier Bride
Accessories: the Perfect Finishing Touch Once you’ve found the dress, it’s time to add the details. Below is a checklist of accessories you may need: • Headpiece and/or veil • Stockings • Garter • Jewelry: necklace, bracelet, earrings • Evening bag • Bra or bustiere and panties • Slip or crinoline • Shoes • Wrap or jacket, depending on season • Gloves
Racing to the Altar
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Amanda Brooke Prince and Elliott William Barnes Sadler January 17, 2009 • Emporia, Virginia
Written by Ashley Townsend Pictures Courtesy of Jason & Erin Evans
NASCAR driver Elliott Sadler’s fans know him for his speed and driving skills – that is, until his dance moves began to attract attention. Sadler, 34, wed Amanda Prince, a 26-year-old teacher, last January, and since then the video of their first dance, during which they break out into a routine inspired by the Fresh Prince of Bel Air, has received nearly 25,000 hits on YouTube. “Elliott and I are big cutups, and we wanted to do something different – we’re not very traditional,” Prince said. In the middle of their slow dance to Edwin McCain’s “I’ll Be,” DJ Wayne Cook of Franklin played the excerpt of Sugar Hill Gang’s “Apache (Jump on It)” they requested. “We practiced maybe five minutes [that morning] and just went with it,” she said. Sadler said he thought their antics might end up on YouTube. “I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed doing it,” he said. The fun-loving couple grew up in Emporia and knew each other’s families, but they didn’t connect until Sadler came to watch his sister and sister-in-law play for the recreational softball team sponsored by his father’s business.
He teased his sisters’ close friend, Prince, who said she tried to ignore him, but she ended up on a date with him instead. “Elliott loves life,” Prince said. “Being with him on any occasion is easy. He supports me, lifts me up, and makes life so much fun.” Sadler said Prince’s sense of humor and kindness toward others drew him to her. After they dated for three and a half years, Sadler proposed at a close friend’s home in Nags Head, NC. However, it didn’t happen on the beach. While curling her hair in preparation for dinner, Prince stopped to show Sadler the shoes she had bought that day, asking him to close his eyes and then revealing the new pair. “He, of course, made some random joke about my shoes,” Prince said. “And then he said, ‘Alright, since you made me close my eyes, you close yours,’ and I said, ‘Okay’ – I had the curling iron in my hand, mind you – and I felt him grab my other hand, and then he got down on one knee.” The couple quickly set the date for January 17th and later realized a happy coincidence: the date was Prince’s grandparents’ 46th wedding anniversary. To honor the occasion, Milton “Preacher” and Nell Prince, who had never been in a limousine, rode to the reception in a Hummer limo with Sadler and Prince. The anniversary couple was also announced with the wedding party and shared a special dance. Prince wore a white satin gown embellished with Swarovski crystals from Tiffanys Bridal. “I knew before I even looked at it in the mirror – it just felt right,” she said. Prince’s nine bridesmaids wore claret red gowns and her junior bridesmaid and three flower girls wore white dresses, all from Tiffanys Bridal in Richmond. Sadler his nine groomsmen and two ring bearers sported black and white Puma sneakers with their tuxedos. Sadler said his unique choice of footwear fit the atmosphere of the wedding.
To capture the spirit of the evening, the couple rented a photo booth from Freeze Frame of Richmond. Guests hopped in the carnival-style booth to pose for four photos, and kept the top three as a favor. They clipped the fourth picture and placed it in a scrapbook where they wrote messages and well-wishes. “Everybody’s tongue was out,” Prince said. “I’m a huge picture fanatic I think that the best thing we can do is take pictures and have memories.” After their crowd-pleasing dance, they feasted on several different types of shrimp, crab cakes, beef tenderloin (Sadler’s favorite), chocolate covered strawberries (Prince’s favorite), chocolate fondue with fruit and marshmallows, and much more. After becoming Mr. and Mrs. Sadler, the couple honeymooned at Jade Mountain in St. Lucia “When we were getting our massages on huge cliffs above the ocean, we thought about the people who wanted us to enjoy that, and it made it more personal,” Prince said. For Prince and Sadler, perhaps the most unexpected moment of their wedding was the realization that nothing had gone awry. “It was everything that I always imagined it would be,” Prince said.
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091201_CL_Wedding Wishes Magazine Ads Version: 1 pg (Premier Bride) Page: N/A Size: 4.75” x 7.75” Color: 4/0 (CMYK) Magazine Ads Version: 1 pg (Premier Bride)V. Page: Size: 4.75” x 7.75” Color: 4/0 (CMYK) PC:091201_CL_Wedding Lisa R. DM: Jill Wishes CM: Deb AD: Kelly D: Rochelle PD: Dan CW:N/A Charlene 091201_CL_Wedding Wishes Magazine Ads Version: 1 pg (Premier Bride) Page: N/A Size: 4.75” x 7.75” Color: 4/0 (CMYK) PC: Lisa R. DM: Jill CM: Deb AD: Kelly D: Rochelle PD: Dan V. CW: Charlene PC: Lisa R. DM: Jill CM: Deb AD: Kelly D: Rochelle PD: Dan V. CW: Charlene
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Anne Talley
Berkeley Blanchard
68 • Premier Bride
Bridal Attire
l o o k i n g
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Alfred Angelo 11341 West Broad St Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 360-5870 Angelique’s Boutique 110-B Thompson St Ashland, VA 23005 (804) 798-4464 www.angeliquesboutique.net
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per f e c t
David’s Bridal 9101 West Broad St Richmond, VA 23294 (804) 747-9920 www.davidsbridal.com
Esther May Shoppe 205 N. Main Street Bella Rosa Farmville, VA 23901 3979 Deep Rock Road (434) 392-4197 Richmond, VA 23233 www.esthermayshoppe.com (804) 855-1000 www.bellarosabridal.com Bridal Elegance 11521 West Broad St Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 747-5070 www.bridaleleganceva.com Brides to Be & CW Tuxs 10910 Hull Street Rd Midlothian, VA 23112 (804) 674-5604 brides2b1@cs.com Caryn’s Bridals, Formals & Tuxedos 233 N. Main St Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 392-5111 www.carynsbridals.com
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Jingles 11739 West Broad St Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 364-4009 www.jinglesbridal.com miLA Bridal Stony Point Fashion Park 9200 Stony Point Parkway Richmond, VA 23235 (804) 330-3118 www.milabridal.com Sestra Bridal 12324 Bermuda Crossroads Ln Chester, VA 23831 (804) 717-5453 www.sestrabridal.com Tiffany’s Bridal 1517-D N. Parham Rd Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 www.tiffanysbridal.com Unique Bride 9502 Chamberlayne Rd Mechanicsville, VA 23116 (804) 559-9909 www.auniquebride.com Williamsburg Bridal & Formal The Shops at Strawberry Cove Williamsburg, VA 23185 (757) 229-5004 www.williamsburgbridal.com
Beginning in step dance lessons A romantic way to prepare for a lifetime of waltzing together is to take dance lessons before your wedding. You and your partner will be the center of attention on the dance floor during your special day, but if that isn’t incentive enough, consider the additional closeness the two of you can develop by sharing a wedding-related activity that doesn’t involve appointments and interviews. You’ll be asked before you begin your lessons about the kinds of dance steps you’d like to learn. Ambitious though you may be, learning too many steps too soon may result in frustration if you feel you’re not mastering anything. What you admire about other dancers is how well they move together, not the numbers of patterns they do. You’re probably not used to being taught things as a couple, and you may want to help the instructor along by correcting your partner. Don’t. Let the instructor do the teaching. Your input can be distracting and disruptive, both for the instructor and your partner. Cliché though it may be, dance instructors say men typically progress more slowly than their female partners, who tend to feel movements more and master steps quicker. Be patient with him. It will be appreciated, and the resulting cooperation will get the two of you moving together more quickly. Get the most from your dance lessons by taking them as close together as you can, and in conjunction with group lessons and practice sessions. The result will be speedy progress and increased confidence and enjoyment. B Premier Bride • 73
groom’s checklist
Six Months
Decide division of financial obligations Set budget Select bride’s engagement rng Set appointment with clergyman Prepare your guest list Choose your best man and ushers (one per every 50 guests) Plan your honeymoon Check passports and visas
Four Months Select formal wear Find a new place to live Shop for new home furnishings Make reservations for honeymoon Have a complete physical exam and update your immunizations Set appointment for blood test (requirement varies from state to state) Shop for clothing for honeymoon
Two Months Buy wedding rings/order engraving Set date with your fiance to get marriage license (state laws vary as to length license is valid)
One Month Make reservations for rehearsal dinner Select your bride’s gift and gifts for your groomsmen Review legal, medical and church documents Find lodging for ut-of-town guests Reserve limousine and/or arrange special transportation for bridal couple and wedding party Confirm honeymoon details and reservations
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Two Weeks Arrange to move your belongings to new home Plan bachelor party or dinner Schedule hair styling appointment
One Week Confirm time and place of wedding rehearsal and rehearsal dinner with all attendants Give final guest count to restaurant Pick up wedding rings Pick up your formal wear Give best man clergyman’s fee in sealed envelope for delivery Pack for honeymoon Relax, you’ve been a big help!
Meghan & Travis
Travis and I met the “not so old” fashioned way…. online at Match! I had been online for less than 24 hours and he was the only person I had written. We exchanged a few emails, accidently saw him on a date with another person, went on our first date, and the rest, they say, is history. Our colors were sage green and brown, which is rather hilarious considering how much grief I get for liking black and brown so much (thanks to my Northern roots!). We tend to both like earth tones, and it fit with the Fall season. Fun with a mix of geekdom. I had previously worked with over 200 weddings myself… with the majority of them taking the traditional route. We were ready to let loose, and have fun, often at our own expenses. We had a cake shaped like the Death Star from Star Wars, cookie favors to pay homage to our favorite show LOST and a surprise First Dance with us clumsily doing our best rendition of “In the Mood,” a favorite of my grandparents. Do it your way and stand by your choices. We may have been a little unorthodox with no bridesmaids and a Death Star Cake, but if we would have done it any other way, it wouldn’t have represented us. Also, there’s something to be said for hiring professionals. I know it’s easy to save a few bucks with having a friend take on things such as DJing, photography, etc. but when you do that, you frankly run the risk of having things fall apart. I didn’t have to worry about a thing on our wedding day, because we had hired the right people. Our wedding was perfect because I was marrying him. That and awesome linens!!!
8 Premier Bride Wedding Professionals Wedding Planner: Jennifer McBride-McBride Events Your Dress: Bella Rosa Bridal Entertainment: JB Bostic of Choice Entertainment Cake: Graham Haddock with Cakes by Graham; Kara Buntin with A Cake to Remember Rentals: Linens-Classic Party Rentals Videographer: Ella Video Productions
do’s& don’ts TOP 25 WEDDING
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Do take advantage of Internet technology. Plan your wedding using search engines and e-mail to create your special celebration. There are several Internet sites dedicated to wedding planning that allow you to take advantage of the wealth of information at your fingertips. (Visit our website at www. premierbride.com, for more help). Coordinate with vendors, make and confirm reservations, select flowers and review menus online.
Do contact the church or synagogue where you will perform your ceremony and ask about any rules or guidelines regarding music. Some churches require that you use their organist.
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Don’t seat older guests near the band or the speakers as it may be hard for them to hear anything else.
Don’t forget to pamper yourself. Treat your mom and maids the day before the wedding with an afternoon at the spa. You’ll have the time of your life enjoying facials, massages, manicures and pedicures. It will make you feel more relaxed and beautiful.
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Do remember when purchasing a gown to be realistic about your expectations for losing weight. A gown can always be taken in, but rarely can it be let out without leaving stitch marks for all to see.
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Don’t forget to involve stepparents in your ceremony in some way, perhaps a reading during your ceremony or an invocation before dinner.
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Do remember your guests with small children. Instead of putting “no children” or “adults-only reception” on invitations, ask your reception site manager if there is a small room or play area near the festivities that you can rent. Then hire a professional babysitting service to take care of the kids. Parents will
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appreciate your consideration and be able to relax and enjoy your reception knowing they are close to their children.
Do consider table visits during your reception. It is a grand display of appreciation and respect when the bride and groom spend a few moments visiting their guests at each table.
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Looking for a gift for your wedding party? Do consider a monogrammed piece of estate silver, such as a flask for the groomsmen or make-up compacts for the maids.
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Do consider decorating chairs in a new way such as black, silver, white or traditional gold. Transform an ordinary room or site into a ballroom. Chair covers completely change the look of your reception.
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Do remember that the hour of the ceremony is an indicator of the formality of the reception. Do consider having your entire wedding at a full-service hotel. The convenience of having the ceremony, reception and guest lodging in one place is incomparable, especially for a complicated event.
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To get your skin in shape for your wedding day, don’t forget to start six months prior to your wedding and practice make-up techniques. When renting a stretch limo, do remember that it can usually seat up to 10 people, but fewer when the bride’s gown and train and the bridesmaid’s dresses are factored in to the equation.
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Do select the ceremony and reception locations nine to 12 months before your wedding. If you’re getting married in popular months like May or June, select these locations as soon as possible.
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When discussing photo packages, don’t forget black and white and sepia tones. This classic style of photography continues to gain in popularity.
Don’t forget that the best way to let people know where you are registered is to have family and friends spread the word. Although it’s impolite to mention the registry on
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wedding invitations, a hostess may do so on shower invitations.
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Make finding the right caterer and baker a priority. Great food is critical to the wedding celebration. Interviews and tastings are a must.
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Don’t waste time getting to your reception. Have photos of the wedding party taken before the ceremony. Do reserve your photographer nine to 12 months before your wedding. Decide which shots you definitely want and which ones you can live without.
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Don’t forget to send an invitation to your officiant and to all of your wedding party.
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Do pick up your invitation envelopes as soon as possible so that you can begin addressing them. Do consider having two bouquets, one to keep and one to throw.
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Do remember to return rental items on time and undamaged. Do check with your church or temple about their policies, especially regarding alcohol.
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Bellissima in
Venice Gown:
grittispose.com Parasol:
pamelasparasols.com
What’s more beautiful – the glimpses of Venice, the “most romantic city in the world,” or the breathtaking bridal gowns shown here? Drink up these gorgeous images and decide for yourself...
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Gown:
grittispose.com
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Gown:
grittispose.com
Gown:
grittispose.com
Gown:
grittispose.com
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Gown:
grittispose.com
Gown:
grittispose.com
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The Classics Revisited
GREECE Considered the “cradle of Western civilization”, Greece is the perfect location to showcase these classic gowns with some unexpected twists: a touch of gold, a dash of green, a plethora of pleats…
Gown:
houseofwu.com
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Gown:
daveandjohnny.com Parasol:
pamelasparasols.com Jewelry:
chicos.com
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Gown:
winniecouture.com
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Gown:
daveandjohnny.com
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Gown:
winniecouture.com
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Gown:
daveandjohnny.com
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Gown:
houseofwu.com
Shot on Location in Venice and Greece Hair & Make-up: Abracadabra Hair Salon Greece Dresses provided by Bridal Elegance valleybridalelegance.com Jewelry: myparklane.com/cvandenheuvel Models: Visuelle Productions Photographers: Debbie Daanen Photography debbiedaanen.com Dragonfly Dream Photographers dragonflydestinationphotographers.com 94 • Premier Bride
Megan & Michael
The King Wedding November 7, 2009
My husband and I met at a church function. A good friend introduced us, we became friends, and our friendship eventually turned into a romance. He proposed after we had eaten a picnic lunch at one of our favorite spots in Richmond: a hill overlooking the James. We used black and white for a simple, yet elegant look. And once I decided on a color for the bridesmaids’ dresses, we added shades of pinks, peaches, and reds to unify the décor and wedding party. At the reception site, we decorated with tans, whites, reds, pinks, and yellows. Our inspiration came from a floral fabric we used as an accent table covering. I wanted the look to be soft and comfortable. Understated, nothing too dramatic. Walking down the aisle, arm-in-arm with my dad, to marry the man of my dreams was my favorite memory. As my dad handed me over to my husband, he whispered in his ear, “I believe in you, Michael.” It meant so much to us to be surrounded by our friends and family that day. We know that they are the ones who will support and encourage us as we strive to honor our wedding vows for years to come. Michael and I liked the idea of getting married in an old, country church. We searched until we found Byrd Presbyterian Church in Goochland. The pastor of the church was very gener-
Church in Goochland. The pastor of the church was very generous to rent the church to us, and he shared with us much of the church’s history as well. The clubhouse we used for the reception had country-cottage charm, but was new construction with beautiful wood floors, a warm stone fireplace, wraparound patio, and great surround-sound system. “Country-mod” was the theme we used for our wedding. We were going for an affordable, fresh-take on a traditional country-themed wedding. Have a few trusted friends and family members help with the wedding-planning by assigning them different roles, which fit their various interests and abilities. For example, Mom can help you look for caterers, while a friend can help stuff invites.
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Photographer: David Abel
Cake: Martin’s/Ukrops Bakery – Cupcakes
Beautiful ideas by the season Planning your wedding
Most people think of sunshine when they picture a wedding day, but not every day fits that mold. Luckily, something as joyful as a wedding can be sunny even on the dreariest of days. As long as you take advantage of what your season has to offer, all four can provide beautiful accents to your big day. Spring weddings are always popular, in part because of the parallels between new life blooming in the gardens and the new life of a
married couple. Using flower bulbs instead of full-grown flowers also add to that feeling. For a springthemed centerpiece that doubles as a favor, have multiple small, pastelcolored vases and encourage your guests to bring one home. Seeds and tiny monogrammed flowerpots are also a fun favor! You could also try bringing a little Easter to your reception by having lilies as centerpieces or hiding wedding favors, especially if there will be children present. For summer weddings, try a slightly more informal approach to your meal by offering the spread in
picnic baskets or garden-party style! Mini picnic baskets or personalized blankets could then be given as a favor. Also, if you want to use bright, bold colors in your flowers or decorations, summer is the best time to do it. A fall wedding has a more rustic feeling to it. Warm reds, oranges and yellows are best for decorations, and don’t be afraid to ditch some of the flowers for tasteful wheat stalks or gourds among the arrangements. A fun favor could be making homemade cider or jams with your initials on the jar for your guests to enjoy. Many couples shy away from winter weddings, but it can actually be one of the most intimate seasons for a wedding because it provides such respite from the bitter cold. Deep purples, forest greens and ruby reds are perfect to set a cozy tone, while icy blues and silver show off winter’s sparkle. Cinnamonscented pinecones with some holly or giant poinsettias make tasteful centerpieces. Instead of bubbling champagne for the toast, why not embrace winter and raise a mug of hot chocolate or egg nog? It’s delicious and comforting in the cold. If there will be kids at the reception, set up a table to make their own sparkling snowflakes to sprinkle on tables as decoration or as a souvenir for the kids! As for their parents, send them home with coffee mugs, spiced tea, or wintry-scented candles. It doesn’t have to be 70 and sunny for the perfect wedding as long as you use Mother Nature to your advantage!
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Wedding consultants what can they do for you? You have just accepted the most amazing wedding proposal and now you and your fiancé are planning how to spend the rest of your life together. First, however, you have to get through the wedding. Former brides and grooms will tell you the secret to a stress-free wedding experience: get help. In a survey by SuperWeddings.com and the International Institute of Weddings,
72% of recently married brides who did not use a wedding coordinator for their weddings said that based on their experience, if they had to do it over again, they would hire a wedding coordinator to assist with the planning, or at least be on hand to supervise the wedding day itself. 49% reported that if they could only change one thing about the entire wedding, this would be the thing they would do differently! Learn from those who have walked the aisle before you, and don’t underestimate the overwhelmingly huge job planning a wedding can be. Most couples today are very busy, both working full-time, and don’t necessarily have any experience at event planning. Planning a wedding includes endless details to arrange, logistics to organize, large numbers of service providers to coordinate and contracts to negotiate... it’s no wonder most people end up wishing they
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had some experienced help with all these details! Often, couples don’t even consider a wedding consultant because they assume that only couples with huge budgets and lavish weddings need one, or can afford one. Not true! Consultants can do as much or as little as you need, and can work with any budget. If you explain, “our budget is $20,000,” then they’ll help you figure out the best way to allocate that money, which includes their fee. Often, they can actually save you money with special discounts or experienced knowledge of the best deals and money-saving ideas, so they can help pay for themselves! Or, if your budget is tight, consider using them for just part of the wedding – for example, just the flowers, decorations and day-of coordination. At the very least, have help on the wedding day itself. Just having an experienced professional on-hand to make sure that everything and everybody is where they need to be, when they need to be, would be a huge weight off your shoulders, giving you the freedom to really enjoy your day. If you decide to use a consultant, the most important thing to do is choose someone you like. While there are many good consultants in the business, finding one that suits your temperament, fits with your overall personality and is enjoyable to be around is the real key to success. Other things to consider: Does the consultant care about what you want? Is he/she a good listener? Is the consultant prepared for the meeting, and does he/she appear organized? Does he/she have good experience, appropriate skills and interesting ideas? Remember also to ask for and check references.
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lining up the Wedding Party You’ll find traditional configurations for Christian and Jewish wedding parties illustrated and labeled below. The bride meets the groom at the altar to initiate a Christian wedding, while her parents remain seated throughout the service. A Jewish bride is escorted down the aisle by her parents, who then remain standing. During the Service
Processional
1.Bride 2.Groom 3.Maid of Honor 4.Best Man 5.Bridesmaids 6.Ushers 7.Flower Girl 8.Ring Bearer 9.Father of the Bride 10.Mother of the Bride 11.Father of the Groom 12.Mother of the Groom 13.Clergymember 14.Cantor 15.Bride’s Grandfather 16.Bride’s Grandmother 17.Groom’s Grandfather 18.Groom’s Grandmother
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Photography Do a dry run.
A good test for a photographer is the engagement photo. Is this person willing to work with you? Do you love the results? How’s the customer service? Don’t sign up until you’ve seen the results.
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Perfect Day A Picture
It may be hard to imagine now, but after many months of hard work and detailed planning, your wedding day will suddenly arrive‌ and zooooom! The hours will fly by in a blur of beautiful, moving, memorable moments. And after the cake has been eaten, the dress has been carefully put away, and the gifts have been opened – you and your new spouse will be left with the most precious gift of all: memories of your special day. 4
PHOTOGRAPHY
There is simply no better way to capture and preserve these memories than with a collection of beautiful photographs that not only document the day and its events, but also embody the emotions and spirit of your wedding. Quite frankly, this is simply not a component of your wedding planning to treat lightly! Invest the time, attention and budget necessary to ensure that your wedding memories will be preserved for the future.
What’s your style? Start by determining which style of wedding photography is right for you and your fiancé. Here are brief descriptions of the three main styles:
Formal or traditional This style produces color, posed portraits of you and your groom, your wedding party, and your families, along with all of the traditional wedding moments such as the cake cutting and bouquet/garter toss.
Photojournalistic This style is a popular trend in wedding photography, and it means your photographer will be shooting your wedding as if it’s a news event, capturing hundreds of candid moments on film. These photographers tend to use more black & white film, for a classic, timeless and emotional effect.
Artistic Artistic photographers use a variety of special effects to create a dramatic, one-ofa-kind piece of art. Effects could include double exposures, hand tinting, special borders and much more. Most photographers offer a blend of two or more styles, but tend to specialize in, and focus on, just one. If you like the photojournalistic style, but want some posed formal portraits to showcase your families or the day’s special moments, find a photographer that can comfortably do both. So which style is right for you? The first step is to think about the end product: what is most important to you, to have after your Premier Bride • 105
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wedding? Do you definitely want to have beautiful, timeless, color portraits of you and your groom that you can elegantly frame and display? Do you want a large number of candid, heartfelt moments–many captured in black & white, to document your day? Are you envisioning a one-of-a-kind, artistic piece to hang on your wall after the wedding that incorporates one or more images from the big event? To help you, take a look at friends’ wedding albums, surf around professional photographer’s web sites, clip photos from magazines of photography that moves you, and spend some time in photographers’ booths at wedding shows. All of this research will help you zero in on what style of photography you seem drawn to, and ultimately, which one you want to use for your wedding.
How to find the right photographer
Once you’ve established the style that is best for you, it’s time to find a professional photographer that meets your needs. Start the process by collecting referrals from friends, reviewing helpful resources like Premier Bride, attending bridal shows and surfing the Internet. Create a short list of potential photographers that specialize in the style you desire, based on their work and your budget, and set up an in-person or phone consultation with them.
Your goal at this consultation is to evaluate three main areas: 1. Do you like their work? Be sure to see complete wedding albums along with individual photos, to get the best idea of the end product you can expect to receive. Also, be very sure that you know exactly WHO will be shooting YOUR wedding – and view their work, as some larger studios have more than one photographer. 2. Do your personalities mesh? Of all your wedding vendors, the photographer is the one vendor with whom you will spend a good deal of time on your wedding day. You want to feel comfortable with this person!
While planning your wedding, be sure to mention to the advertiser that you saw their ad in Premier Bride!
PHOTOGRAPHY
Even if he or she is a great photographer, if your personalities just don’t ‘click’ – you may want to keep looking.
3. Do they fit your budget? It’s so critical to have a budget amount in mind before looking for a photographer, so that you can feel confident that the one you’ve decided on, and love, also meets your financial requirements.
The different parts of a photography package As you’re selecting your photographer, it may help to be aware of the various elements generally included in wedding photography packages. Most photographers also offer these elements ‘a la carte,’ or can create a custom package that specifically meets your needs – so be sure to ask.
Bride & Groom’s Album There are a wide variety of wedding albums available today, and they vary in size, color, material, construction and price. When comparing different photographers’ bride & groom albums, be sure you’re noting the quantity of photos and in what sizes, to make sure you’re comparing “apples to apples.”
Parents’ albums The parents’ albums are smaller versions of the bride & groom album, and have traditionally included about twenty 5x7 photographs. Photos should be carefully selected for each family, to create two (or more) custom family albums.
Extra prints You will probably want to order extra photographs in addition to the main album and parents’ albums, for yourself or your parents to have some framed portraits at home, for members of the wedding party, and for other close friends and Premier Bride • 109
Creating keepsake art
encasing your memories
Preserve your wedding memorabilia behind frames, glass domes and shadow boxes. The one-of-a-kind presentation transforms keepsake items into art, fit for family, wedding party thank-you gifts or prominent display. Your role in determining all aspects of the design further personalizes the preservation of your most intimate artifacts. Consider including flowers, corsages and cake decorations - with your invitation or the day’s other written reminders. Keepsake art is offered in oval frames with bubble glass, domes and custom-made shadow boxes in a variety of designs and prices. Artistic keepsakes can also be arranged after anniversaries and other romantic celebrations, created with your guidance to be appropriate to the event.
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family members. Don’t underestimate how many prints you will want after the wedding, as this will definitely impact your budget.
Proofs Ask your photographer how many proofs you will get, and in what format. They may be provided as small photos, in digital format, on the Internet, or on contact sheets.
Engagement photograph This is a posed portrait of the newly engaged couple, which can be sent to newspapers with information announcing your engagement. You may also choose to put a framed engagement photo by the guest book at your reception.
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NOTES
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Erin & Brian
Brian and I both attended Mills E. Godwin High School. I was a freshman and he was a sophomore. I will never forget the very first day when Brian received his driver’s license. He came to my house to pick me up in his white Honda Civic hatchback. My mom was so nervous. She even called Brian’s mom to make sure it would be okay. This was the first time I was allowed to ride in a car with a “boy” without parental supervision. I had the biggest crush on him. We became really good friends and went on a few dates but our timing was never right. The years flew by and we lost touch after high school. Seven years later we ran into each other on Facebook. We decided to have a lunch date to catch up the following week. What was supposed to be a 30-minute lunch ended up being a 3-hour reunion. It was an instant connection. I knew that finally, our timing was right and I had found the person I was meant to spend the rest of my life with. One of the main reasons we chose The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing is because it is located next to the James River. We love hiking, swimming and being outdoors. We’ve spent many days as a couple and with our close
friends and family at the James. It is a special place for us. We looked at several venues on the James. None of the locations could offer everything “The Boathouse” could offer. A ceremony and reception spot, catering and open bar. The incredible views of the City of Richmond were an added bonus. The in house wedding planners were amazing and made this day effortless for my mom and I. We couldn’t have asked for better weather. It was a warm day with no humidity. All of our family and friends had a great time. My little girls looked so beautiful in their flower girl dresses. Everything came together very nicely and I couldn’t have asked for a better day. It was one of the best days of my life.
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Premier Bride Wedding Professionals
Venue: The Boathouse at Rockett’s Landing Videographer: Ella Productions Florist: Flowerama
THE JOY OF VIDEO:
preserve your wedding day in living, moving color Nothing can transport you back to your special day like a good quality video. By beautifully capturing the moving sights and sounds, you can revisit your wedding again and again, and relive all of the special details: the rustle of your wedding gown, the nervous cough of the groom before his vows, the emotion in your father’s voice during his toast. But plan to spend the time and money necessary to do this right.4
Videography
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Your video keepsake preserve the memories
Videography captures the drama and Some will mail you a demo of their work, motion of your wedding, allowing you while others will ask that you visit the studio. and your loved ones the chance to relive Ask for references and don’t hesitate to your happiest moments forever. check them. View a sample tape shot by the Finding a Professional professional you intend to hire. During the Like your wedding photographs, you’ll most peak wedding season some videographers likely want to place this treasured keepsake in may hire “stringers” or “tapers” for your the hands of a professional. As capable as a wedding. Ask to meet these subcontractors favored aunt, uncle or other family member and view their demo tapes. When reviewing may be, a professional videogapher will have such tapes, pay attention to colors, camera the time, equipment and experience necessary angles and shots, and the clarity of sound. to deliver a sensational product. You want images that are bright and clear, Begin the search for a videographer four music and voices that are sharp and audible, to six months before your wedding date, and smooth and steady panoramas, detailed closeup to a year in advance if the wedding is in ups, no jarring jumps from one scene to one of the peak months. Begin by contacting another, and no scenes that linger too long on your candidates by phone, asking about unimportant people or events. Look for crisp basic services, packages and sample tapes. and professional editing.
Video tip.
Hire only a professional who answers your questions courteously and will be able to convey a non-intrusive approach with your wedding guests. Premier Bride • 119
A new way to plan
Get deals. Get bids. Get going. 120 • Premier Bride
Video Keepsake
Once your wedding is taped, you may want to consider a digital archive of the event in the form of a DVD, which can be played on a player attached to your TV or in most personal computers. If you would like to have this service, make sure your videographer can provide it, or can recommend someone who can.
Prices and Deposits Fees depend on how complete a service you want, the number of cameras and assistants used, editing time and other special production costs. Videographers often charge per hour or per camera, though you may enquire about a flat fee or oneprice package that typically includes the taping, editing of the master tape and a second copy. If you choose a package, get a detailed list of what’s included. Expect to put down a 10 to 25 percent deposit for an experienced videographer’s services. If you work with a less established company, you shouldn’t have to put down such a large advance.
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Understanding the Technology Most videographers will offer detailed technical information about the cameras and equipment they use, which can be daunting to the average consumer. Don’t be intimidated. Camera quality can definitely impact the end product, but as long as the videographer uses a professional grade camera, your true criteria should be whether you like their taping and editing style. As long as you are happy with the quality of the demo, and confirm that the same type of camera and the same shooter will be used at your wedding, you should be fine.
Video Style While every videographer has their own style, most use one of two taping methods: photojournalistic or documentary. For the Premier Bride • 121
Cinderella style horse and carriage
Your carriage waits; white, beribboned and drawn by two white horses with flowing manes. A fairy tale? No! It’s your wedding, and hiring a horse and carriage can make your Cinderella dreams come true. As with limousines, the cost will vary depending on the number of people and the amount of time you book. A horse and carriage makes for wonderful photo opportunities, especially if your wedding is traditional and your gown full and white. Make your dreams come true as a Cinderella bride.
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Video Keepsake
photojournalistic approach the videographer captures the events of the day in a very candid manner. The documentary style involves a formal taping of the ceremony and reception as well as footage of the bride and groom getting ready, guests arriving, toasts and treasured interviews, anecdotes and advice from guests. Be sure to communicate your preferences.
Suggestions for Taping In addition to videotaping the wedding and reception, consider having your videographer create an audio-visual collage to be played at the rehearsal dinner or reception. Such on-screen presentations are becoming a common item on the wedding checklist, and make a wonderful keepsake. You may choose to share the story of your romance by selecting photographs of you and your fiancé when you first met, as you fell in love, and as you planned the wedding.
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On-screen presentations are a wonderful way of introducing the bride and groom to each other’s family and friends. Consider having copies made for parents, grandparents and loved ones who are unable to attend your wedding. Having your wedding on video affords you the opportunity to relive the most precious moments of your wedding day again and again. Although it may be hard to imagine now, one day you’ll want to share these treasured memories with your children and grandchildren. What better way than with sight and sound, on video or DVD?
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The old sa ying “Time flies when you’r e having fu especially ri n!” ngs true on your day. Be su re to take m wedding oments throughout the day to step back and absorb everything that’s goin g on aroun d you. You’l l be happy you did!
Bonnie & Mike June 27, 2009
We met in April 2007 at a local restaurant. Although we had prearranged our date through a personals website, I know it was actually fate that brought us together as he could not be more perfect for me. I had a feeling from the beginning that he was “the one” and the rest is history. Mike proposed June 5, 2008 at the Tobacco Company restaurant. I found him there after a scavenger hunt through town that took me down memory lane. He had dropped off different clues at several places with special meaning to us that led me to him in the end. I also love that he picked a random day because it was a total surprise and although June 5th may not have any meaning to everyone else, it now has a meaning to us. My colors were lavender, white, and like
a bright platinum silver. My favorite color has always been purple and these colors were incorporated into the flowers, invitations, and one of my favorite pieces-hand made fans brought from Mike’s family in the Philippines that we gave to our guests. The moment we were pronounced husband and wife….I’ve never been happier. It was important for us to be married in a church and we chose the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart for its beauty, its history, and its overall welcoming feeling. The high ceiling, long aisle, and overall grandeur made me feel like a princess when I was walking down the aisle. We chose the Westin hotel for our reception and couldn’t have been more pleased. Its crisp modern feel was the perfect way to top it off and its spacious ballroom was just what we were looking for to celebrate in style.
6 The love that surrounded us that day...from each other, from our friends, and family and from God who brought us together made our wedding perfect. What a way to kick off our future! Don’t stress! Remember the reason you are there and breathe it all in. It’s over in a flash. Don’t expect everything to go perfectly and laugh about the things that don’t. It will all seem perfect to you in the end. “All you need is love”. Oh and don’t forget the importance of breakfast. You may only think you’ll be able to eat at the reception.
Premier Bride Wedding Professionals
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Venues: The Cathedral of
the Sacred Heart; The Westin Richmond
Entertainment: DJ Alan Boyle from Choice Entertainment
Videography: United Wedding Others: Still images provided
by United Wedding
Cake Flavor Tip If you decide on a basic tiered cake, use different flavors/fillings for each layer to appeal to more tastes.
Cakes
YOUR WEDDING CAKE: a sweet ending to a special day You’ve picked the date, found the hall, ordered your dress… Now it’s time for a fun, tasty task: choosing your wedding’s sweet ending. It could be a traditional wedding cake or another sweet treat read further for some creative ideas. Whatever you choose, it all starts the same way, by evaluating your choices and finding the perfect bakery/cake designer for you.4
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CAKES
Wedding Cakes
Cakes 101: Covering the basics
from
Where to start… Start out by considering your particular wedding style, the location, the season and the number of guests. All of these factors will influence any wedding decision! A casual, informal, outdoor wedding will have different requirements than a formal, elegant, winter evening wedding.
We offer several cake designs, including Traditional, European styles, & Groom’s cakes. The perfect blend of your unique style and our expertise.
When to start… Also like all wedding decisions, the earlier you start, the more options you’ll have and the less stress you’ll encounter. You can start researching, interviewing and taste testing anytime – but ideally, get your selection finalized and ordered by six months before the wedding. Or, at least book your bakery by then, even if the cake details are not yet decided. Popular bakers and cake designers book up quickly during the “wedding seasons.” (Which nowadays is pretty much April through October, plus the holidays!) What to do…
10_0527_PremierBrideROP.indd 1
Eat! Ask friends for referrals, visit wedding shows, surf the ‘Net – whatever you need to do to find some good potential vendors. Then, make some appointments for a tasting so that you can check out their work for yourself. Of course, the cake needs to be delicious. But you also need to feel absolutely confident that your cake vendor will do what they say they will do, pay attention to details, be on time, etc. Consider how promptly they return your calls or answer emails, how organized and efficient they appear at your tasting, their years of experience, and the overall impression they give. Ask if they’re familiar with your reception site, how they transport the cake and how much time they need to set up. When you meet with your cake designer about the cake’s colors and appearance, it helps to have as much wedding information with you for
Call for a free wedding cake consultation
(804) 340–3129
MartinsFoods.com
5/24/10 11:53 AM
CAKES
your dress, fabric swatches to show wedding colors, and any other specific wedding touches that have already been decided. Also, bring any photos or magazine clippings of wedding cakes that you love and share them with your designer. What flavor… The traditional white wedding cake with white frosting still makes its classic appearance now and then, but today anything is a possibility! Consider your guests – if you have a lot of kids or nondrinkers, maybe you want to avoid the alcohol flavors. Consider your menu – if you’re having lemon chicken, you may not want to select a lemon cake. And finally, consider what you love to eat! Carrot cake, hazelnut torte, deep chocolate with raspberry filling, cheesecake… If you and your honey have a favorite flavor, ask your cake designer about using it.
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Flowers
BRIDAL BLOOMS: design a beautiful wedding with flowers When selecting flowers for your wedding, you will find there is an endless array of options. The romantic link between weddings and flowers dates back to ancient civilizations where garlands of flowers, leaves and vines were worn or carried by young brides to symbolize their beauty and innocence. Wedding flowers have since evolved from simple hand-held bouquets to vibrantly artistic creations used to set the mood and theme for the entire celebration.4
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While planning your wedding, be sure to mention to the advertiser that you saw their ad in Premier Bride !
Festoon your day with blooms
Those glorious wedding floral arrangements! It would be hard to imagine a wedding without them. The right arrangements enhance the drama and pageantry of the entire day’s celebration. Shop for a florist with care. Six months before the wedding isn’t too soon to select a florist, especially for a very formal or elaborate wedding. You want an artist, able to suggest lovely, unique creations. You want a professional who cares enough to find out what you really want along with the effect and the ambiance and all within your budget. When you’ve decided on the florist and are making floral decisions, be prepared to celebrate the nuances of your wedding with arrangements appropriate to the season, as well as your vision and pocketbook. 132 • Premier Bride
Most importantly, know and be able to communicate what you really like. By the time you make arrangements final choices regarding your flowers, you should have selected your gown, all the other wedding party clothing and your overall color theme. Take swatches of the fabric with you and pictures of the garments if you can. Since these are the elements, an artistic florist will need to evolve breathtaking floral treatments that will complement your wedding theme. Be sure to ask for an itemized bill as soon as your selections are made so you can keep track of both your order and the price. Bring along a list of all names and addresses as well as the timetables for delivery of bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages and other arrangements.
festoon your day
Bring along a list of all names and addresses as well as the timetables for delivery of bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages and other arrangements. In the past, it has been traditional for the bridal bouquet to be all white flowers. Today, however, it’s correct to add colorful blossoms. The groom’s boutonniere is worn on his left lapel, and is composed of the same type of flowers as the bride’s bouquet. Ushers and groomsmen will have boutonnieres different from the grooms. The attendant’s flowers will also be different from the bridal bouquet and are frequently of a color that matches their dresses. The flowers worn by the parents should be coordinated with the overall theme, or may be customized to suit their clothing. You’ll want displays for the altar, centerpieces for each of your reception tables, sprays for the candelabra, corsages for the ladies assisting with various reception functions and floral “tokens” for special
guests. Your florist will be able to assist in determining your particular needs. A lovely alternative to fresh flowers is silk flowers. You can find nearly any bloom or plant in silk and you can create anything in silk that you might have created from fresh flowers. The bonus, of course, is that silks flowers will bloom forever! Rely on your florist for advice on your arrangements. He or she has been there before and is prepared to provide guidance.
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Music makes a party!
Nothing gets the guests energized like great music. Hire the best band or DJ you can afford. Book the music that makes people want to dance.
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Music
The sound of romance On your wedding day, nothing sets the mood, stirs the emotions or touches the heart more than music. From the solemn, beautiful sounds of the ceremony, to the background melodies of the cocktail hour, to the lively dance tunes that energize the reception, music brings the romance to your day.4
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Get sound entertainment finding the perfect dj
Couples traditionally engage disc jockeys for their ability to provide a wide variety of music at a reasonable price. They can play all of your favorite songs, performed by the original artists and, because DJs work with prerecorded music, your entertainment is continuous even during breaks. A veteran wedding DJ not only plays the music, but also acts as an emcee for the event, smoothly introducing your wedding party, arranging to have champagne poured before the toast, announcing the cake-cutting and a myriad of other milestone moments throughout the reception. Needless to say, the DJ will be an integral part of your celebration, which is why you should take great care to hire a disk jockey with a personality and style you like. Decide in advance how much 136 • Premier Bride
you would like your DJ to say and how interactive you would like him to be with the audience. Of course, much of this will depend on the type of celebration you are planning. An energetic, out-on-the-dance-floor all-night reception will require a different type of interaction than a sophisticated, more demure event. In either case, a disc jockey with an extensive repertoire and experience can tailor the presentation to the needs of the occasion. The best idea is to arrange a meeting with prospective disc jockeys. Listen to their expertise on previous receptions. They may have some great ideas that you’ll want to incorporate into your affair. Ask about musical selections, old and new. Don’t be dismayed if they don’t have obscure songs, but gauge their willingness
sound entertainment
to track them down. Also arrange to see them perform. Once you’ve decided on a DJ service, be prepared to provide a list of songs you would, and would not, like played at your reception, as well as the song for your first dance. Keep in mind, while you may love jazz or alternative music, those types of music don’t always make great dance selections, especially for hours on end. Give your DJ the freedom to truly entertain your guests by mixing a few of your personal preferences with a balance of tried and true reception crowd pleasers. An experienced entertainer will know how to read the crowd and keep the party jumping, but only if you let them. Should you plan on having your disc jockey emcee the reception, provide a schedule of events. If you are on a stringent time schedule, make sure you convey the importance of strict adherence. If there are any special introductions to be made, make sure you review the correct pronunciation of the names and relay what the person’s relationship is to the bride and groom. After the first dance of the bride and groom, it is common for the DJ to play something upbeat and celebrating. Light dance tunes are generally played through dinner so your guests can relax and easily converse. While not required, providing refreshments for your entertainer is a great way to keep her happy and energetic while she is working hard to make your reception a dancing success. Lastly, make sure the contract covers all of the bases: the day, date and time of the event; address of the site; number of hours covered; overtime cost; total cost; and payment arrangements. If you’re pleased with your DJ’s performance offer a tip at the end of the event that reflects your satisfaction.
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INVITATIONS: The first impression You’ve been planning your dream wedding for months, but for your guests, the invitation is their first glimpse of what’s to come. It provides a clue to the event, and the level of formality, along with some indication of your wedding style: Formal or informal? Modern or traditional? You’ll want an invite that matches… and so, let the search begin!4
Invitations
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The First Impression
The invitation is your guests’ first glimpse of your dream wedding to come. You’ll want an invite that matches the style of your wedding. When to start If possible, order the invitations and other wedding stationery at least six months before the wedding to give yourselves plenty of time to complete everything and fix any unexpected problems, and mail the invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding. Let any out-of-town guests who would need extra time to arrange flights and/or hotel rooms about the date as soon as you know it. All the parts
Invitations
Invitations
Wedding invitations are typically comprised of several components: There is the ceremony card, the reception card, the response card with its stamped, addressed return envelope, the map (optional), and the inner and outer envelopes. Some invitations combine or eliminate some of these elements for more informal styles. The invitation wording Traditionally, whoever is officially hosting (read: paying for) the wedding is listed first on the invitations. You could also do a search online to find invitation wording samples to discuss options. Addressing advice Street names, cities and states should be written without any abbreviations. To indicate a married couple, use both “Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Green.” When addressing an unmarried couple living together, use each of their full names: “Mr. Ronald Green and Miss Angela Thomson.” If every member of a family is invited, write “Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Green and Family.” If only the older children are included, their names are written below the parents’: “Miss Erin Green.”
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Do a Test Run!
Make sure you test out beauty products several times to make absolute sure that you’re not allergic!
Photo by blackdogstudios.com
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Beauty
The do’s and don’ts of looking your best All eyes are upon you as you glide gracefully up the center aisle. Your handsome groom gazes at you with love and adoration. Everyone wants to take your picture. Once you combine your special sense of style with a few tricks of the beauty trade, you’ll look your absolute best. 4
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Make up tips for a beautiful bride Where do brides get their special glow? Love is the answer, though the right makeup doesn’t hurt. It’s natural to be nervous and excited on your wedding day. That’s why it is so important to determine the look you want well in advance and to have a makeup rehearsal. Most makeup artists recommend at least one consultation prior to your wedding day. If you plan to do your own makeup, then take time to practice and perfect your special look. On your wedding day you will glow as on no other day. You won’t need strong colors to look sophisticated, but you will need the right colors. If you elect to use the services of a professional makeup consultant, he or she will select colors that will enhance your natural beauty and features. If you are creating your own look, experiment with delicately blended sheer browns, pinks, purples and golds. Brides may also use enhancers such as extended lashes or liner to accentuate the eyes for photographs. When determining your wedding day make up, there are several factors to take into consideration. Do you want a dramatically trendy look, or something timelessly romantic? Is your wedding during the day or in the evening? If it’s during the summer, will you have a tan? Is your dress white or ivory? Consider whether you will wear your hair down or up and whether you will wear a hair ornament or headpiece. The color of your hair and the color of your skin are what make you unique - select makeup to accentuate your natural beauty. B
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Beauty
The do’s and don’ts of looking your best
We’ve done the research, reflected, and compiled our best tips to help you look completely fabulous for your wedding day!
Makeup, hair, nails… every blushing bride wants these to be in top form on the big day. We’ve done the research, reflected, and compiled our best tips to help you look completely fabulous for your wedding day! What to DO Now is a great time to focus on healthy, glowing skin. If you’re concerned about the health and appearance of your skin, then consider a visit to a dermatologist (for bigger problems) or an aesthetician (for minor issues.) Depending on the severity of your skin problems, start six to 12 months before your wedding day so you have time to treat, heal and achieve good results. After proper analysis and treatment, professionals can assist you in selecting skin care products that will enable you to maintain treatments in the privacy and convenience of your own home. Facials are a must for all skin types. Facial treatments use deep cleansing, masks and exfoliation to penetrate deep into the skin, killing blemish-causing bacteria, rebalancing the skin hormonal system and stimulating circulation. Regular treatment results in refined pores, smoother facial lines, healed blemishes and a more radiant complexion.
When choosing your hairstyle consider your gown, the level of formality of your wedding, your personal style, your hair and your face shape. Generally speaking, the more elaborate the gown, the simpler your hair should be, or it all simply becomes “too much of a good thing.” Strapless gowns show off their dramatic neckline with up-dos, but this isn’t a rule set in stone. Work with your hair stylist four to six weeks before the wedding to find the right style for you – and bring a photo of your gown with you! Whether you use a pro for your makeup, have a friend do it or do it yourself, do a trial run before the wedding. In addition to looking in the mirror and getting feedback from close friends and/or family, take photos and evaluate those. Do you like what you see? Do you want to make any changes? Now is the time to practice – not the day of your wedding! Keep it on throughout the day and see how it lasts. How does it look two, five or eight hours later? It is easy enough to touch up? Regular manicures in the one or two months before your wedding day will get your nails in perfect shape. You can probably avoid using acrylic nails this way, and enjoy the beauty of your own strong, healthy nails.
Be Flawless On Your Wedding Day With Richmond’s Premier Makeup Artist
Blend VL BY
DESIGNS
Specializing in Air Brush, Custom Blend Makeup & Eyelash Extensions 804-878-4804 • www.VLDESIGNS.net • vldesigns@comcast.net Premier Bride • 143
BEAUTY Have your eyebrows professionally shaped at least two weeks before the wedding. If you’ve never done this before, you’ll be amazed at how different you look with well groomed brows! Some people may experience a red, rash-like reaction, so doing this early enough gives you time to recover if that happens to you. You will probably need to freshen them up a day or two before the wedding with a tweezers. If you use a professional for your makeup, be sure to have the same colors available to take with you for touch-ups during the day. Do use waterproof mascara and eye makeup, just in case you shed a tear or two… And use primers underneath your foundation, lipstick and eye shadow, so that your makeup lasts longer. You want your makeup to last! To take care of the skin and make your whole body beautiful, try a body wrap and waxing. Body wraps detoxify and soften 144 • Premier Bride
the skin using minerals or other natural substances to help to heal acne problems on the back and chest. Body wraps may include a full body massage to encourage circulation, toning and relaxation. Body waxing is one of smoothest and longest lasting forms of hair removal. Your legs will be smooth and free of razor stubble and, you can even try bikini waxing to get rid of hair on a longer-term basis. What NOT to do Don’t alter your style too dramatically for your wedding day look. You want to look like yourself, your best self, and “polished” enough to honor the fact that this is a very special occasion. Avoid really trendy looks in makeup, nail color and hairstyle. 10 to 20 years from now, these styles will glaringly stand out and look distractingly outdated. One bride who wore a dark trendy color on her nails said she cringes now every time
BEAUTY she sees her wedding photos, and wishes she went with a classic, neutral color. If you’re considering any drastic hair changes, do it a couple months before the wedding. This way, if you don’t like it, you have plenty of time to make changes. If you do like it, just maintain it! Don’t go too light with your makeup, or you’ll look pale and washed out, especially in photos. Don’t go too dark, or it will be distracting and overpowering. Experiment and practice before the wedding to find the right balance. Avoid facials for two or three days before your wedding, in case it causes any kind of undesirable reaction. Don’t overdo the blush. You’ll be emotional, happy, nervous, busy and showing off your groovy moves on the dance floor… So there’s a good chance you’ll have some natural color of your
own, and combined with too much blush you could look too red. Our final, and best, advice DO strongly consider using beauty professionals for your wedding day hair, makeup and nails. This is one simple way to shorten the list of wedding-day worries! A true makeup artist will know trade secrets not only for fashioning a longerlasting look, but also for accentuating your features. They will also provide you with great information, advice and tips that will last a lifetime – a beauty investment. A great hair stylist can help you create a look that complements your facial features, headpiece and veil, and do it in a way designed to hold through the last dance. When you go pro, the end result is a relaxed, picture-perfect bride. Finally, don’t forget your most beautiful accessory: your radiant, love-filled smile. B
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Transportation Getting there: Wedding Day Transportation
Well-planned wedding day transportation is the key to making your day flow beautifully, elegantly and smoothly. Having these details arranged in advance means you can relax and enjoy the trip, with no worries about traffic, parking or that champagne cocktail you enjoyed. Your chariot awaits – in whatever form it may be!4 Photo by Artistgroup.net
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Your chariot awaits a chauffeured limousine Hollywood stars, tycoons, VIPs and you and your groom on your wedding day! A limousine is an elegant element that enhances the festivity of the day. Imagine arriving and departing for your day’s events in grand style. An awesome stretch limousine pulls up; the chauffeur comes around, opens your door, offers his hand, and helps you gracefully enter and exit the carriage. A limousine can transport you, your family or your wedding party from the start of the day to the end. It can pick you up at home, and then drive you to the church, the reception and even to the airport for your honeymoon. It leaves personal cars free to handle last minute errands and ensures that you and your gown arrive unruffled. While limousines can be used to drive the wedding party to and from the reception, they can also be quite helpful in transporting out-of-town or elderly guests to the ceremony and reception. They’ll have a very pleasant ride, too. Today’s state-of-the-art limousines come complete with all the comforts of home including televisions, bars, DVD players and many other goodies. Check rates and find out exactly what the cost covers, the time allowed, the type of limousine and the amenities provided. Also determine if a fleet rate is available if you plan to use more than one limo. Discuss your needs with a service consultant at the limousine company, and plan to make your reservations at least four to six months ahead of time to ensure availability. B
Transportation Photo by Artistgroup.net
Luxury coaches alternate transportation
Usually when you think wedding transportation, you think limousine. Limousine service has been a bridal standard for years and still continues to be a wonderful option. Depending on the location and size of your wedding, however, you may choose the newest alternative in wedding transportation--a luxury coach. Comfortable, mobile and spacious, it’s the ultimate in luxury. A luxury coach has a lot more going for it than luxury, though. It’s the perfect solution to a ceremony site without a changing room. You and your attendants can enjoy your time together as you get ready in the plush surroundings. After the ceremony the bridal party can enjoy a private celebration with the bride and groom on the way to the reception.
Parking is another obstacle that the luxury coach easily overcomes. If the only downside to your dream reception is the price your guests will pay to park, eliminate the problem. Transport them from the ceremony to the reception in a passenger coach. These coaches generally seat 21-49 passengers. If you hire more than one transport you can accommodate those guests who need to leave at an early hour. Coaches are also a great solution for remote locations or those with limited access. As do the majority of limousine companies, passenger and luxury coach companies require a minimum number of hours. The size and type of coach determine the hourly rate, which is generally comparable to that of a limousine.
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The clergy of your choice performing the ceremony
NOTES
Other than getting the wedding license, finding someone to perform the ceremony is the most vital legal element of your nuptial union. Arranging the ceremony site, clergy person and reception location should be the first order of business. Coordinating the exact date you want with all three can be very difficult if you wait too long into the planning process. For couples belonging to the same religious organization, finding a clergy person is relatively easy. For those not affiliated with any one denomination, or for couples with different religious backgrounds, finding someone to fill this important role for your wedding may require a more diligent search. Before you begin, take time to examine how you and your fiancÊ envision the ceremony. Are there religious customs or traditions that either of you feel strongly about incorporating? What does your family expect? Do you want to exchange traditional vows, or will you write your own? Having a clear-cut picture of the ceremony you would like to have will help to narrow the selection of available clergy. Most couples with different religious backgrounds prefer to have an officiant from each religion perform what is called an interfaith ceremony. Finding clergy willing to perform these types of ceremonies will take time. Plan for it. Most clergy will require some type of premarital counseling prior to the wedding. Counseling of this nature can be very beneficial, especially when conversion or the union of different religious backgrounds is involved. B Premier Bride • 151
international
Venice Story By norman Shonkwiler Photos Courtesy DEBBIE DAANEN PHOTOGRAPHY, Hotel Gritti, Locanda Cipriani and Hotel Cipriani
If your wedding celebrates the union of your love, your honeymoon celebrates the romance. Leave the twenty-first century behind and step back in time to the most romantic place on earth where your desire can take flight in the wandering waterways of Italy’s heart of romance; Venice.
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Gondolas on the Grand Canal
Lay of the Land Venice occupies several islands and islets connected by bridges and canals but most people identify it as all one island. The city traces its origins back to ancient Rome when citizens fleeing invasions of Germanic tribes built a town they thought would be impervious to attack. What followed was centuries of growth, commerce, intrigue and romance, the home of Marco Polo, Christopher Columbus and Casanova, and the subject of theater, art and cinema from Shakespeare to Indiana Jones. The city is connected to the mainland via the railway and Ponte della Liberta highway, but in the city the best method of travel is by boat or on foot.
The Grand Canal
Top Must Sees, Must Dos The best way to get a first look around is to take a vaporetto from the Piazzale Roma and ride along the Grand Canal to get a feel of the city then wander at your leisure. Venice has two dozen museums and galleries showcasing the rich history of art and architecture of the city through its centuries. Waterside cafes and gastronomic restaurants will dazzle you with Italian cuisine and Venetian seafood stylings. You won’t find a hopping nightlife in Venice, but the city after dark is breathtaking and who needs a crowd when you have each other in the center of Italian romance. The most famous view of Venice is the Piazza San Marco, or St. Mark’s Square, and a photograph in front of the domed Bascilica di San Marco is a must for your honeymoon album. Tour the city via its famous bridges the 400 year old Rialto Bridge designed by Antonio da Ponte, who beat Michelangelo to be awarded the task, is also one of Venice most famous sights. You will find exclusive shops and boutiques on the Rialto Bridge and at the Piazza San Marco incase your eyes become too accustomed to the stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings.
The famous Rialto Bridge
St. Mark’s Square
Facade and terrace of the Hotel Gritti
Grand deluxe room with canal view
Kiss as you Glide beneath the Bridge of Sighs at sunset in your gondola and you will be assured eternal love. Prisoners on their way to the dungeons caught their last glimpse of the canal through the grill work, perhaps the bridges legend of romance comes from one of the prisoners, Cassanova, passing over the very spot. Visit the island of Murano and witness the artistry and craftsmanship of world famous glass blowers who create art in glass, and while you are there tour the Glass museums and shops showcasing their works. Beyond the city on the mainland you will find vineyards and castles of Verona, Padua, and Vicenza to explore and experience. Here too you will find a rich history of Italy and the rich and famous who have come to visit.
Where to Stay Hotel Gritti www.gritti.hotelinvenice.com Locanda Cipriani
Located on the Grand Canal, Venice most famous five star hotel has hosted many celebrities and dignitaries over the last century. This former residence of the Doge of Venice offers rooms decorated in elegant Venetian style with views of the Grand Canal and Santa Maria del Giglio square. The Club del Doge restaurant provides fine dining with fresh foods and ingredients from the Rialto market and views of the Grand Canal.
Locanda Cipriani www.locandacipriani.com Hotel Cipriani’s swimming pool at sunset
A favorite destination of many celebrities and made famous by Ernest Hemingway in Across the River and Through the Trees, which he partially wrote while staying at Locanda Cipriani. Three single rooms, two junior suites and one senior suite with garden views, canal or courtyard, each room is named for an ancient Roman city on the mainland or the canal it over looks, and each possesses its own history of famous guests who have stayed there. The Inn’s
restaurant has dinning in the garden in the fall and summer and in Rooms Gritti and Portico year round provide foods with the “Cipriani Style”. A truly elegant romantic site to focus on the most important aspect of your honeymoon, each other.
Hotel Cipriani www.hotelcipriani.com Across the Giudecca Canal on the tip of Giudecca Island offers a panoramic view of Venice as well as the amenities of a resort. A heated Olympic sized pool and tennis court, right off the bay, and fitness center are available on the grounds along with access to the only golf course in Venice, on Lido Island. To reach the golf course and tour the canals Hotel Cipriani offers their private boat the Shirley, available through the concierge. The Casanova Wellness Center, named for the legendary lover who held trysts in the same gardens, offers the pampering and skin care that will draw gasps of awe from your own Casanova.
Your Venice Wedding Planning a wedding in Venice can be daunting but engaging an event planner is can help avoid the pitfalls of red tape involved. Venice Events (www.veniceevents.com) can handle the details of your special day and offer suggestions to transform it into a truly Venetian event. Let them help you “turn the wedding celebration into a 2 or 3 day event, in true Italian style. The night before, hold a party in a traditional or rustic inn or a palace beside the water - the wedding can be in any number of incredible venues. Then the day after, take brunch in the skyline bar of the new Hilton Molino Stucky, with its birds-eye view of Venice”. Lindsey Coleman and Jayne Seddon, both originally from the U.K., have lived in Venice for many years, know the city and have gained a good reputation with local suppliers. They offer very personal and friendly service, with great attention to detail and are fluent in Italian – another great advantage. B
Hotel Gritti Salon with a banquet set up
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Climate The summer months of July and August are sometimes very hot and often humid with maximum temperatures of 80˚F. April, May, June, September and October are all more mild with temperatures in the 60’s and 70’s. Winters are relatively cool and often rainy. Snow is infrequent, but possible, usually December through March. During the Winter months fog is also possible, particularly in the morning. There is very little tourism traffic between the months of November and January, you may manage to feel you have Venice all to yourself. Language The official language of Venice is Italian, while many native people speak Venetian, a “romance language” that is closely related to Italian. English, French and German are often spoken in many of the resorts and by people connected with tourism. Time zone Central European time GMT+ 1hour Electricity The electrical current in Italy is AC - the cycle is 50Hz 220V. If you plan on bringing electrical appliances to Italy, be sure to also pack a transformer or a plug adaptor. Electric sockets and plugs in Italy are round and not flat; therefore an adapter plug is required. Transformers and plugs can be also bought at a local shops in Italy. Tipping In restaurants leave 5-10% in cash, bell boys a couple of Euros, Gondoliers negotiate their prices on the spot
156 • Premier Bride
fact sheet
Currency Italy is one of the twelve members of the EU, and in 2002 changed it’s currency from the Italian Lira to the Euro. Traveler’s checks are accepted in all of Italy’s major cities and tourist areas. Most reputable establishments will accept major credit cards and will display logos of accepted cards in their front windows. Getting around Venice is the world’s only pedestrian city - it is easily walkable. The Rialtine Islands, the “main” part of Venice, is small enough to walk from one end to the other in about an hour. If you want to get around a bit more quickly, there are numerous vaporetti (water buses) and water taxis. If you are going to be in Venice for a few days, it is more economical to get the vaporetti than to get private water taxis. Be sure to experience Venice by gondola! Shopping Each U.S. tourist may bring back $400 worth of goods purchased abroad to the U.S. duty-free. The goods must accompany the traveler. A flat rate of 10% is assessed on the next $1,000 worth of goods purchased. Parcels containing gifts may be shipped to the U.S. duty-free, providing the total value of each does not exceed $50. Each package should be marked as “Unsolicited Gift”. The amount paid and the contents of the package should be declared. Destination Weddings Handled via Venice Events at www.veniceevents.com.
Best laid plans help from the pros
Getting your wedding exactly the way you want it is no easy task. It can take numerous calls and visits to dozens of businesses before you find the best ones to fit your needs and budget. Sometimes finding specialized or hardto-find services, like a stretch Rolls Royce, an authentic mariachi band, or a horse and carriage can be a seemingly impossible task. Enter the wedding planner, the person who does the legwork, makes the choices according to your desires, and then contracts those services for you for a fee. The benefit of working with a planner, or consultant, is that you will be dealing with one person. Once you sit down and explain your wishes, a planner can put together a custom package, with each service exactly the way you want it. Just think how easy it would be to work with and explain to one person your reception, cake, photography, video and transportation requirements. A wedding planner can smooth the way for you to focus on the things that are really important to you. You’re still the idea person behind the wedding, but your planner is a level-headed, knowledgeable
source of information and expertise who is there for the sole purpose of helping you make your wedding the best it can be. Planning your wedding doesn’t need to be a chore. If you’re not the detailoriented type, hire someone whose job it is to take care of the details for you. You’ll find the convenience well worth the fee, and the peace of mind you’ll have will be invaluable. B
Premier Bride • 157
Directory
Of Professionals For Your Wedding
Accommodations
Bridal Gowns
Commonwealth Park Suites Hotel.............. page 25
Bella Rosa................................................ page 59
Courtyard by Marriott................................ page 47
Bridal Elegance......................................... page 62
Courtyard by Marriott -
Jingles..................................................... page 61
Richmond North/Glen Allen........................ page 22
Sestra Bridal............................................. page 60
Crowne Plaza........................................... page 34
Tiffany’s Bridal & The Groome’s Corner..... page 63
Hilton Garden Inn-
Unique Bride............................................. page 60
Richmond Airport...................................... page 22 Hilton Garden Inn-
Bridal Registries
Southpark/Colonial Heights........................ page 22
Bed Bath & Beyond................................. page 131
Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa -
By Invitation Only.................................... page 125
Short Pump.............................................. page 22 Holiday Inn Petersburg -
Bridal Shows
Fort Lee................................................... page 22
Meet the DJ............................................. page 54
Holiday Inn - Richmond Airport.................. page 22
Richmond Bridal Showcase
Homewood Suites by Hilton....................... page 48
Presented by Bella Rosa......................... pages 6-7
Omni Hotel Richmond............................... page 23
Richmond Bridal Shows............................ page 54
Richmond Marriott West............................ page 28 Spring Hill Suites by Marriott..................... page 47
Cakes
The Berkeley Hotel.................................... page 35
A Cake to Remember.............................. page 114
The Westin Richmond............................... page 12
Cakes by Graham................................... page 113
Wyndham Richmond Airport...................... page 49
Celebrations by Denise............................ page 115 Westhampton Pastry Shop...................... page 114
Beauty/Health/Fitness
Ukrop’s Super Markets, Inc..................... page 115
MaryKay................................................. page 128 Salon Vivace........................................... page 129
Catering
VL Designs............................................. page 128
Chez Foushee........................................... page 30 Pick Ups Plus Catering.............................. page 40
Bed & Breakfast
The Flying Chef II...................................... page 41
Historic Mankin Mansion............................. page 1
Virginia Catering...................................... page 16
Willow Manor Country Estate..................... page 28 Winterham Plantation................................ page 25
Clergy/Officiants Honorable John E. Mehfoud...................... page 41
158 • Premier Bride
Disc Jockeys
Honeymoons/Travel Agents
Choice Entertainment.............................. page 122
Accent on Travel..................................... page 141
Manny Green Entertainment.................... page 123
Honeymoon & Island Weddings
Nard’s Professional DJ Service................ page 123
by Crossroads Travel Advisors................. page 140 Tahiti Honeymoons
Dry Cleaners/Gown Preservation
by Crossroads Travel Advisors................. page 143
Hand Craft Cleaners.................................. page 65
Invitations/Favors Florists
By Invitation Only.................................... page 125
Flora Culture........................................... page 119 Flowers Make Scents.............................. page 118
Jewelers
GML....................................................... page 120
PLEASE SEE JEWELERS CHART PAGE 11
Formal Wear/Tuxedos
Limousines
Bella Rosa................................................ page 59
Down Under Limousines.......................... page 133
Sestra Bridal............................................. page 60
TNT Limousine....................................... page 135
Tiffany’s Bridal & The Groome’s Corner..... page 63 Unique Bride............................................. page 60
Music & Entertainment Choice Entertainment.............................. page 122
Garden Weddings
Manny Green Entertainment.................... page 123
Amber Grove Inn....................................... page 27
Nard’s Professional DJ Service................ page 123
Blandfield Plantation................................... page 3 Celebrations at the Reservoir..................... page 18
Party Rentals
Clover Forest Plantaton............................. page 24
Classic Party Rentals................................. page 89
Historic Mankin Mansion ............................ page 1
The Prop Shop.......................................... page 89
Maymont Foundation................................ page 12 Old St. John’s Church............................... page 36
Photographers
The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen........ page 44
Caston Studio........................................... page 99
The Boathouse at Sunday Park.................. page 19
Daniel Butler Photography....................... page 100
The Mill at Fine Creek............................... page 27
Daniott Photography................................ page 100
The Place at Innsbrook / Virginia Catering.. page 16
Hayes & Fisk,
Valentine Richmond History Center............ page 29
The Art of
Weddings at Lake Anna......................page 26
Photography..............pages 95 & inside back cover
Willow Manor Country Estate..................... page 28
Image Link............................................. page 101
Winterham Plantation................................ page 25
ME Photos................................................ page 98 Premier Bride • 159
Offices of the circuit clerk Albemarle.................................. 434-972-4083 Amelia...................................... 804-561-2128 Mike Topham Photography . ...............page 96 Quarterman Photography, LLC.............page 97 Tracy Bay Photography.....................page 102
Reception & Banquet Please see Reception & Banquet Information Guide........................pages 52-53
Buckingham.............................. 434-969-4734 Caroline.................................... 804-633-5800 Charles City............................... 804-829-9212 Charlottesville............................ 434-295-3182 Chesterfield............................... 804-748-1241 Colonial Heights......................... 804-520-9364 Cumberland............................... 804-492-4442
Spas and Resorts Historic Mankin Mansion.......................page 1 Salon Vivace.....................................page 129
Dinwiddie.................................. 804-469-4540 Fluvanna................................... 434-591-1970 Fredericksburg........................... 540-372-1066
Videography Ella Video Productions.......................page 106 Image Link.......................................page 101 Reel Amore......................................page 107 Sprack Media Productions.................page 107 United Wedding Productions..............page 104
Goochland................................. 804-556-5353 Hanover.................................... 804-537-6151 Henrico..................................... 804-501-7390 Hopewell................................... 804-541-2239 James City................................ 757-564-2242
Wedding Announcements
King George.............................. 540-775-3322
Richmond Times Dispatch...................page 45 InRich.com.........................................page 46
King William.............................. 804-769-4936
Wedding Associations
New Kent.................................. 804-966-9520
Richmond Bridal Association...............page 15
Nottaway................................... 434-645-9043
Wedding Planners
Petersburg................................ 804-733-2367
Bridal Consulting by Naomi.................page 91 CC’s Creative and Unique Events.........page 90 I Vow To You......................................page 91
Powhatan.................................. 804-598-5660
Prince George............................ 804-733-2640
Wedding Websites
Richmond.................................. 804-646-6505
No one ever said planning a wedding was easy... Until Now! www.premierbride.com www.pbrichmond.com 160 • Premier Bride
Louisa....................................... 540-967-5312
Prince Edward........................... 434-392-5145
Spotsylvania.............................. 540-582-7090 Stafford..................................... 540-658-8750 Williamsburg............................. 757-564-2242