Seguin Magazine January 2023

in

* ATTENTION READERS

In the December issue of Seguin Magazine, the article “Merry & Bright” was credited incorrectly. The byline should be as follows: Story by Sarah Maskal. We sincerely apologize for this mistake.

on the cover

Skylar and Clay Faris treat their wedding guests to a genuine brand of love as they recite handwritten vows to each other and do an exaggerated form of the chicken dance.

Photo by Lauren Crumpler

FROM

We have entered an age where it’s clear that normal wedding styles no longer apply. Rules have been broken and traditions are being rewritten. Now that the world is functioning in full swing without limitations, couples are exploring all of the beautiful, funky, spectacular and peculiar details that go into meeting their soulmates at the end of the aisle.

In this month’s bridal issue, you’ll find dazzling spreads of celebrations that incorporate new trends and unique ideas to serve as a board of inspiration. It’s fascinating how wildly different everyone’s love journey can be and how it can set the stage for an incredibly curated ceremony.

Despite an imperfect romance history, truth be told, I am a hopeless romantic. I love love and people loving each other. I adore every whimsical detail that exposes the connection two people share. I’ll proudly wear the title of daydream believer until my own fairy tale comes true. But until then, you have my blessing to love and be loved in returned.

Wishing you joy, love and happiness on your wedding day.

Desiree Gerland

Desiree Gerland

Creative Director / Magazine Editor desiree.gerland@seguingazette.com

THE EARLY BIRD FINDS

Romance

early mornings and a traditional chicken light the path for these newlyweds

Story by Dalondo Moultrie Photos courtesy LAUREN CRUMPLER photography

It wasn’t the adrenaline of the morning workout that kept a Guadalupe County woman returning to the gym every morning. It was the man she met and he recently made an honest woman of her in a wedding neither will ever forget.

“It was really beautiful,” said Skylar Faris, nee Sullivan, of her September nuptials. “It was an outdoor wedding. We had trees hanging down and then we had the reception in a barn, like, a modern barn style.”

Clay Faris met his then-bride-to-be a few years ago via introduction by a friend, Skylar said.

The friend and Clay worked out at a Crossfit gym in the area. He invited Skylar to workout with Clay and the friend, and sparks flew, she said.

“I went there one day at 5:30 in the morning; I met clay,” Skylar said. “That was pretty much the reason I kept on going. I would not go to a gym at 5:30 in the morning. I’m an afternoon bird.”

Good thing she did. A relationship blossomed and about two years ago, Clay moved in with Skylar and the pair now live together in her Guadalupe County home.

From there, their bond grew stronger. They eventually agreed to marry and

tied the knot Sept. 18 at Addison Grove in Dripping Springs.

An intimate wedding with about five groomsmen and five bridesmaids helped the newly minted Mr. and Mrs. Faris celebrate with about 130 important people in their lives as guests.

Those in attendance were treated to the couple’s genuine brand of love as they recited the vows each had written. Clay said his wife’s vows were elaborate while he tried to keep his short and sweet.

“The typical ‘in sickness and in health,’” is how he jokingly described his vows. “I always said I’d do my best to make her smile because she’s never as beautiful as when she’s smiling.

“It’s safe to say I made people laugh with my vows.”

It wasn’t just his oath to his bride that provided comic relief at the wedding, Clay and Skylar said.

One guest certain to draw attention and laughs at the wedding was Jeff, a stuffed chicken that Clay and his friends adopted as teens and kept in their lives since high school. Jeff joined the group of high schoolers around sophomore year and has been there for many of the important days in their lives, Clay said.

“He’s gone to all of our weddings,” he said. “He’s an honorary groomsman.”

Jeff started out hanging with the group at bonfires and parties in high school. Then when they all went off to college, every now and then, Jeff would make an appearance and trade hands.

“He ended up in my hands up until a year ago when we gave him to Kevin at his wedding,” Clay said. “Then Kevin went and brought him right on back to me at mine. Next year I believe it is, he’s going to be going to our friend Randy’s.

“It’s just one of those traditions that’s stupid at first but then it actually means a lot to your group.”

Skylar said she knew Jeff would be there and she understands how much he has come to mean to the group of friends. But her family members were unprepared for the elaborate way the group and Jeff partake in the famous chicken dance.

“It was definitely the most interesting chicken dance I’ve ever seen,” she said. “I even had my own family members come up to me and say how they’ve never seen anyone get so into a chicken dance.

“It was a good time; I thoroughly enjoyed it.”

Following the wedding, the bride and groom whisked away to Colorado. They visited Breckenridge and traveled to Colorado Springs where they found the views breathtaking and so spectacular they chose to forgo an additional leg of the trip to stay put in Breckenridge.

“It was just too pretty,” Skylar said. “They actually have seasons, unlike Texas.”

Marriage has been going great for the newlyweds. They’re loving life together and making plans for the future.

Next up is moving out of the house Skylar has called home nearly five years, Clay said.

“This is not our forever home,” he said. “The backyard’s too damn small.”

Plans are in the works to build a house in Kingsbury. They hope to get on with that part of their life starting in April or May.

From there, Clay and Skylar Faris will have the rest of their lives to figure out what’s next.

YOUR LOVEExpress

awe-inspiring ring styles for 2023, according to experts

Story by Sarah Maskal Photos by victoria gaytan

There are lots of things to consider when searching for the perfect wedding ring. You want to make sure you get the right size, the right cut, the right color and, of course, the right price. You may not have thought about it, but the choice should probably start with finding the right jeweler. For many citizens of Seguin, Fabio’s has become the go-to jeweler for all their needs.

Fabio Benjumea moved to this country in 1960 and began selling jewelry on the side to supplement the income he earned from his factory job in New York. He eventually moved to Seguin in 1979 and, with a little help from his friends like the Parker family, has had a thriving business ever since.

One of the great things about Fabio’s Jewelry is that it is a family business, and you can really feel that when you walk in. “I started by myself, now I’ve got my daughter, adopted granddaughter, and I’ve got three jewelers who help me, too,” Benjumea said. Benjumea wants every customer

who comes to his store to feel like family. Any item Fabio’s sells comes with the added benefit of free repairs, sizing and cleaning.

Fabio’s keeps a large selection of engagement rings in stock, so they have something to fit every style. The most common choice, however, is to get a custom-made ring.

People want to put their own mark on their engagement rings without having to sacrifice guidance from an expert designer. This is a sentimental purchase and when the couple is personally involved, and collaborates with their designer, the final piece has more meaning and memories tied to it.

In the end, they want the ring to be their own, an expression of their own style and to be as unique as their story. A classic look, like a simple round cut diamond on a plain band, is always beautiful, but the trends that experts are expecting for 2023 veer a little more off the beaten path.

“Toi et moi” rings for example, feature two complimentary gems, often in different cuts, on one bypass band. This style has actually been around for centuries, but seems to be gaining traction more recently.

Another up-and-coming trend is colored gemstones, most specifically black diamonds, and emeralds. Among the uptrend in various other colored gems, these two seem to be the most popular. If you take a look at them, you can see why with the elegant edge they lend to any design.

One trend that not only produces a sleek appeal but also an element of practicality, is a bezel setting. The stone is surrounded by a thin metal rim in these rings, which offers protection on all sides. This is a great choice for anyone going with a more delicate gem.

If you want something with even more of a custom look, you could opt for my personal favorite trend, clustered stones. A group of several stones in various shapes, sizes and often colors adorn these one-of-a-kind rings. With more elements to play around with, the options are truly limitless.

DESTINATION H oneymoon

Make your first trip as a married couple extra special

Story by Desiree Gerland

Honeymoon travel can be a major source of stress, and trying to incorporate all of your favorite things into one trip can overwhelm, or take away from your time spent simply enjoying each other’s company. The trip should be relaxing while also suiting your wants, needs and style as a couple.

A honeymoon should be a once-in-alifetime trip. But what counts as “the perfect honeymoon” is subjective — meaning there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Weather you’re the type of couple that wants to explore a once-in-a-lifetime destination, experience otherworldly food and architecture, or simply veg out on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, it’s important to consider the best times to visit your dream destination.

While off season travel can save you money, the last thing you’d ever want is to spend the majority of your trip in inclement weather, or discover that most of a location’s must-visits are only open in high season.

With all that in mind, here are some of the ultimate honeymoon destinations to have on your short list.

ON A BUDGET

Puerto Rico

World’s collide in Puerto Rico. Spend your honeymoon indulging in sights, cuisine and culture inspired by a mix of American, Spanish, African and British influence.

What to do. Beach bars and casinos dot the hotel strip of Puerto Rico’s capital, San Juan. When you’re done with the patch, move on to explore mountain ranges and rainforests, then retire into some Spanish colonial nightlife.

For whom. Puerto Rico is for couples who enjoy warm weather, fine dining, rainforest hikes and dancing.

Best time to visit. The best time to visit Puerto Rico is from mid-April to June, right after the busy winter season and just before the rainy summer.

EXOTIC ADVENTURE Pink Lake, Western Australia

Picturing Australia brings to mind kangaroos and koalas, boomerangs and aboriginals. You’re in for a very pleasant surprise when you discover what this next honeymoon destination has in store.

What to do. Experience wildlife, aquatic coasts, fantastic food and wine, and...deep pink lakes! Salt-loving algae and pink bacteria cause the deep hue. Yes, the water is safe to swim in, they’re really just salt lakes.

For whom. This honeymoon destination is for couples that have seen everything…or at least thought so. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and a vision that you will never forget. If you’ve already done your fair share of traveling and looking for something you can’t find anywhere else, this is the destination for you.

Best time to visit. December through February are the hottest and best months to visit. As the water gets more shallow, the pink becomes more vivid. Make sure to hit either sunrise or sunset, The pink hues against the rising sun may be the best Instagram shot you’ll ever take.

RELAX AND UNWIND

Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu was built for couples looking to relax. Offering destinations such as a crater-turned-cemetery, iconic beaches, and the famous Pearl Harbor there are plenty of sights to see when you’re not on “down time.”

What to do. The “Heart of Hawaii” is home to Honolulu offering tropical glamour meshed with a thriving urban spirit. When you’re out of the city, make sure to visit a Japanese Buddhist temple or laid-back surf town.

For whom. Oahu is for the young and the young at heart. Relaxation surrounds you but low-impact entertainment is constantly within reach. Jump on a surfboard during the day and then head into the city core for some free-spirited nightlife.

Best time to visit. Oahu is rumored to have the best weather of all the islands, but we recommend catching the best waves on the North Shore during winter months.

MOST BEAUTIFUL Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is so much more than the thriving nightlife scene that it’s known for. In fact, this city has so much to offer that you’ll be calling it “the city of love” once you’re through with your honeymoon.

What to do. Enjoy rich history, unexpected architecture, peaceful parks and markets. Take a walking or bike tour through the city to experience gorgeous canals and bridges, and make a stop at a local bar or two. There’s one on every corner!

For whom. Amsterdam is for couples who are into mixing modern metropolis with 17th-century atmosphere, and who appreciate a free-living, liberal social culture.

Best time to visit. If you’re into traveling on a budget, the winter is for you. However, it does get a little grey during these months. We recommend a warm summer visit.

MOST MEMORABLE

Stockholm, Sweden

Fourteen islands connected by 50 bridges connect gorgeous cobblestone streets and ochre-colored buildings, which makes for an ideal setting for any honeymoon destination.

What to do. After your visit to the Cathedral, Royal Palace, and the Nobel Prize museum, book a sightseeing boat to soak in all that Stockholm has to offer.

For whom. Stockholm is the honeymoon destination for couples that want to experience something new. Sweden’s capital is enthusiastically experimental and is always finding new ways to make absolutely everyone feel welcome.

Best time to visit. You’ll want to cram as much entertainment into each day as humanly possible. July offers the hottest temperatures and the most hours of daylight.

BEACH BLISS Bali, Indonesia

Honeymooners will find the Indonesian island of Bali quite appealing. What sets this destination apart are the religious buildings and festivals. Hindu, Christian, Muslim and Buddhist cultures have found perfect harmony in this coral reef paradise.

What to do. Partake in one of the island’s many festivals, or take a tour and experience gorgeous volcanoes. Also, make sure to take a gander at the infamous Komodo dragon while you’re there.

For whom. If you have a meaningful appreciation for culture, Bali is your ideal honeymoon destination. Get a taste of global tradition at your own pace. But, make sure to brush up on your proper Balinese etiquette before you start interacting with the locals.

Best time to visit. If you want to get the most of what Bali has to offer, go during the high season when festivals are at their most active state, which happens in the surrounding weeks of Easter and New Year’s.

FOR THE CREATIVE COUPLE

Hobbiton, New Zealand

Live out the dream world of Peter Jackson’s famous films at this pristine landscape packed with good times and events. What to do. Take the walking tour, or partake in one of the Hobbit festivals like Summer Solstice or the Mid-Winter feast. If your wedding lines up with the season, this is one of the best summer honeymoon destinations.

For whom. If someone calls you a geek or a nerd and you automatically take it as a compliment, this is a honeymoon destination that you’ll never forget.

Best time to visit. The best time to visit New Zealand is in the spring when the weather’s at its best. We also recommend avoiding the mid-day summer place and book your walking tour in the morning or closer to the evening.

Walt Disne y World, USA

Almost all of us have been influenced by Disney at some point in our lives, and what better way to celebrate your Happily Ever After than at the place that defined the saying?

What to do. With a world-class entertainment and recreation destination featuring four of the most popular theme parks from around the globe, two thrilling water parks, more than 30,000 hotel rooms, a sports complex, several golf courses and Disney Springs, there’s never a shortage of things to keep a smile on your face.

For whom. Disney World is the perfect honeymoon destination for honeymooners with kids or kids at heart.

Best time to visit. Crowds are down but events are up in the months of November and December. Avoid the lines in slightly cooler weather to make the most of your getaway.

Honeymoon destination list provided by www.weddingforward.com/best-honeymoon-destinations/

IN SEGUIN Staycation

from the bachelor and bachelorette parties to the honeymoon

Story by Bianca Rawlings Photos by victoria gaytan

After the hustle and bustle of a wedding, what better way to relax and recharge than with a staycation-style honeymoon. Newlyweds will undoubtedly want to recoup some savings, especially after all the expenses for the rehearsal dinner, bachelor and bachelorette parties and the big day itself are all paid for.

There is a sundry of options for staycations in Seguin, though only a few can boast custom interior decorating by beautifying professionals and owners of Keepers, Amber and Sam Ehrlich. Married for over 20 years The Ehrlichs work together as a dynamic decorating duo to create lavish lounging lairs and resplendent romantic retreats.

“Working together decorating over the years has brought us even closer together,” Sam said. They work in the shop together as well as on projects ranging from residential and commer-

cial properties to weddings and anniversary parties.

They have partnered with their neighbor, airbnb owner and aficionado Adam Pond, for about seven years to offer elaborate accommodations all around Seguin. Pond has multiple airbnb rental properties that the Ehrlichs meticulously decorate from molding to mantle.

The special decorative touches are what make each of the dwellings unique and inviting. The Parlor House is perfect for a glamorous, glitzy getaway that is within walking distance to downtown. “We tried to decorate with the era of when the home was built, which was the late 1800s,” Sam said. The vintage home and decor lend this cozy abode a whimsical charm that is sure to spark both romance and relaxation.

The Parlor House has hosted a couple bachelorette parties, during one of

which Pond got a service call to check on the refrigerator. He happily went to check on the problem and brought an apology wine as he said he always does when there is any sort of issue with a listing.

“They were having a great time and drinking wine. Then when I showed up with more wine, they were just the most excited,” Pond said.

The BauHaus is by far the most exorbitant listing. From a game room to artist-inspired color palettes, this place is perfect for couples looking to unwind and spend some quality time together. It also has creek access for fishing and eight beds, making it perfect for a bachelor or bachelorette party as well.

“With limited cell service, it is a great location to unplug and really enjoy life,” Pond said.

Another benefit to a staycation is the chance to experience Seguin in vacation-mode. It’s surprising how many hidden gems you uncover when you aren’t rushing from home to work and back. Even wedding pros like the Ehrlichs took a staycation-style honeymoon and had many wonderful things to say about the experience.

“We had planned to go to Europe for our honeymoon but due to restrictions on travel at the time, we had to cancel our trip,” Sam said.

But there was no hint of remorse from Sam, as he looked back fondly on their honeymoon.

“We had less stress without the hassle of traveling. We were able to explore new places and try new things because we had a staycation,” Sam said.

He seemed most grateful about the time he was able to spend with his wife enjoying their newlywed bliss.

“We were able to take the time to slow down and try new things,” Sam Ehrlich said.

And if you think you’ve run out of things to unearth in Seguin, think again. “Even for Seguin locals, there are places to be discovered. In my 17 years in Seguin, I still discover things in Seguin,” Sam said. So whether it’s a weekend getaway or a week-long retreat, invite your loved one or ones and start exploring.

MAKE IT SOMETHING Special

Creating Something unique for Your Wedding Party

Story by Rebecca Harrison

People who go the extra mile to help make an important day really special deserve a unique and sentimental thank you in return for their efforts. Whether or not the giver is the bride or groom, giving to men or women, there is absolutly nothing like recieving a handmade gift as a form of thanks.

Handmade gifts are where inspiration, passion and affection come together in blissful matrimony. (Yes, matrimony, there is a theme here.) They provide keepsakes and trinkets that are as unique as the individuals they’re meant for.

These kinds of gifts are catered to the person for whom they are intended, taking into consideration their wants, needs and tastes. They create a sense of value that goes beyond dollars and cents. Handmade items can make the person feel cherished and seen.

Monogrammed, painted, sculpted, baked, customized or created-gifts like these are seldom forgotten.

So, in the spirit of making something unique for the special people supporting your big day, here are a pair of one-of-a-kind wedding party gifts that can be made at home.

FOR THE BRIDESMAIDS A Cup of J oy

What’s more unique than something you find only once? Thrifting up some special vintage teacups and saucers with a bridal party can be loads of fun. This sort of activity isn’t just a gift, it’s an experience! The result can create a gift that can be enjoyed for years. Even more so if you fill the tea cup with a beautifully fragrant candle wax, crushed flower petals and crystals.

Required components:

Hot glue

Tea cup

Candle wicks

Beeswax

Fragrance

Any additions-petals, crystals, etc.

FOR THE GROOMSMEN Leather Balm

Whether it’s car seats, jackets, boots, hats or fancy bags, most folks in the south have something made from leather in their possession. This easy, homemade leather balm will extend the life of leather goods, and make them buttery soft. This versitile gift is great for anyone, and super simple to create. Pair it with something monogrammed in leather and you’ll have a match made in heaven.

Required components:

Some format of sealable jar or tin

Beeswax

Coconut butter

Sweet almond oil

HOW TO:

Use a bit of hot glue to secure the metal circle on the wick to the bottom center of the tea cup. Wrap the top of the wick around a pencil to keep it centered. Melt wax in a cooking pan over medium heat, until the wax is no longer opaque. The bag of wax will have specific instructions depending on the type of wax. Remove wax from heat, then add scent, if desired. This is also available in the candle-making section at the craft store. Let the wax cool just a bit, then carefully pour it into each tea cup. You want to let the wax cool a little so that it doesn’t “undo” the hot glue that’s holding your wick in place. I used a funnel to pour the wax in so that I didn’t splash it all over and make a mess. Let the wax begin to harden and add your additions before it sets up completely. Once it hardens, trim your wick.

SEGUIN

SEGUIN 128 Hwy. 46 S at Court St. (830) 379-6659 123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

128 Hwy. 46 S at Court St. (830) 379-6659 123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

NEW BRAUNFELS

Not just oil, Pennzoil

SCHERTZ

HOW TO:

In a 1:1 ratio, add the beeswax and coconut butter together in a heat-safe bowl. If you need a measurement to start with, you can use 1/8 cup of beeswax and 1/8 cup of coconut butter. Allow them to melt completely. Keep stirring then slowly add your almond oil (1/4 cup). It will cool the mix causing lumps so add it slowly allowing the mixture to re-melt. Keep heating the mixture for 4-5 minutes making sure that it never boils. If you see steam rising from your mixture, reduce the heat and keep mixing. That’s it! All that’s left is to add it to the container you’ve chosen to hold your balm and let the mixture cool down.

This balm works great on lots of materials, but do not use it on suede unless you’re looking to slick it down. Enjoy!

OPEN:

988 Mission Dr. at Landa St. (830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S Next to Kohl’s (830) 626-3280

992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

NEW BRAUNFELS 988 Mission Dr. at Landa St. (830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S Next to Kohl’s (830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1190 Borgfeld Rd. at FM 3009 (830) 566-1077

SAN MARCOS

SAN

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3439

Choose local and independent for all your shopping needs! Thank you for continuing to support our community.

Charcuterie

Pecantown Books and Brews - $15 - $30 Assorted meat, cheese and hors d’oeuvre platters are perfect pairings for wine or beer, and for sharing with your favorite lunch companion.

212 S. Camp St. | (830) 491-9155 www.pecantownbooks.com

Roses for My Cowgirl Hat

Serenity Boutique - $48

Suede, black, hand-embroidered rose details.

837 E. Court St. | (830) 379-4849 www.serenityboutiquetx.com

The Layla Top

Southern Good - $48.99

Cute, casual, lightweight top featuring a sweet black hearts and a balloon sleeve. Pairs great with dress pants or jeans.

112 S. Austin St. | (830) 463-5170 www.facebook.com/southerngood

Faces of seguin

1139 E Court, Suite 220 Seguin, Tx 78155

Located in the offices above the outpatient rehab at Guadalupe Regional Medical Center

THE ANSWER IS YES