Seguin Magazine - January 2024

G u a d a l u p e C o u n t y l i v i n g

Bridal Edition

The

JANUARY 2024

Perfect

setting

Find a wedding venue that speaks to your love story

Wedding bells and blue suede shoes Meet the Elvis impersonator turning nuptials into rock 'n' roll extravaganzas

Harmony Beyond sight Transforming wedding celebrations with stellar performances

BRIDAL REGISTRY in store and online

giftandgourmetseguin.com

HUGE SELECTION OF GENUINE RECLINERS

L

A

599

$

Z

B

f ro m to

O

$

Y

1199

In Stock & Ready for FAST - FREE DELIVERY

Where Seguin gets engaged!

Everyone’s Jeweler Since 1981

We Buy Gold, Diamonds & Luxury Watches Trade your gold, silver, platinum, diamonds, and estate jewelry for new jewelry!

Or sell them to us!

830-625-3203 www.ernestos.com www.starckefurniture.com

300 S. Austin St. • 379-4622 La-Z-Boy Recliners | Broyhill Furniture

New Braunfels Marketplace 717 N. Business IH 35 Suite 150

In this issue January 2024

FEATURES 12 THE PERFECT SETTING

Find a wedding venue that speaks to your love story

18 HARMONY BEYOND SIGHT

12

Transforming wedding celebrations with stellar performances

26 WEDDING BELLS & BLUE SUEDE SHOES

Meet the Elvis impersonator turning nuptials into rock 'n' roll extravaganzas

ON THE SCENE 34 RADIATE LOVE DOWN THE AISLE

Celebrate every shape, size and beautiful soul on your wedding day

CULINARY CREATIONS

26

40 THE IRRESISTIBLE CHARM OF S'MORES

Elevate your wedding reception with a sweet and toasty marshmallow experience

AROUND TOWN 44 FAVORITE FINDS

Unique items from small, local businesses

46 FACES OF SEGUIN

Submitted photos from our readers

on the cover Photo by Melanie Krause

Bride Letty Neskora and her groom Jason Neskora joyfully exchanged vows amidst the picturesque setting of The Oaks of Ever After in Marion.

18

G u a d a l u p e C o u n t y l i v i n g

E Vol. 10, No. 8 Seguin magazine is published twelve times a year by the Seguin Gazette.

Publisher

Elizabeth Engelhardt magazine Editor

Desiree Gerland Writers

Felicia Frazar Stan Leland Sarah Maskal Dalondo Moultrie Bianca Rawlings Photographers

Felicia Frazar Victoria Gaytan

ADVERTISING

Megan Granzin Gay Lynn Olsovsky Graphic design

Melissa Taylor

FROM THE editor

very year as we dive into the whimsical world of weddings in our Bridal edition, I always feel a little out of place.

You see, I've never taken the plunge into marriage, and as the years go by, the allure of a traditional wedding feels like a costume that doesn't quite fit.

Something that I've recently realized is the connection I share with my boyfriend is a very unique dance, something that refuses to be confined to a standard box. In fact, the more I think about our connection, the less appealing the whole traditional wedding shebang becomes. It's not about a piece of paper; it's about the whimsy and joy of celebrating love in a way that truly speaks to us.

In flipping through these pages, I find myself daydreaming about all the unconventional ways we express our love.

Our love story doesn't need a rulebook; it needs a canvas where we can paint our laughter, adventures and quirks.

So, whether it's exchanging vows under the twinkling stars or celebrating with a picnic in a sunlit meadow, the possibilities are as endless as the love we share. This edition is an ode to the extraordinary ways we can celebrate love beyond the confines of tradition.

Here's to dreaming up celebrations that are as wonderfully unique as the love we've discovered.

TO ADVERTISE IN SEGUIN Magazine Call 830-463-0766 Have Story Ideas? Let us know!

seguinmagazine@seguingazette.com

To view the digital version visit issuu.com/seguingazette

SEARCH SEGUIN GAZETTE All material herein c. 2024 Southern Newspapers Inc., dba The Seguin Gazette, 805 E. Court St., Ste. #200, Seguin, Tx, 78155 All rights reserved

Desiree Gerland Magazine Editor

desiree.gerland@seguingazette.com

Two Locations SAME HOMEMADE TASTE

Celebrating

Years 2022

SG H

THE SEGUIN GAZETTE

BEST OF THE BEST

G u a d a l u p e C o u n t y l i v i n g

Thank you, dear reader!

Thank you for taking the time to read our stories and for being the inspiration that makes it all possible.

Cheers to another 10!

Open Dine in & Drive thru

Mon-THu 11am-8pm | Fri & sat 11am-9pm Seguin location open sunday 11am - 3pm

Seguin Location: 830-433-4201 921 S. HWY 123 BYP, Seguin, TX 78155 Marion Location: 830-914-2572 129 W San Antonio St.. Marion, Tx 78124

Experience THE PERFECT DAY

Lauren Crumpler Photography

Event planning - Florals - rentals - bartending - officiating - invitations 830-632-5162 www.theperfectdaynb.com 202 Trade Center Dr. New Braunfels, TX 78130

KEEPERS INTERIORS & FURNITURE Find something you love for your home

Furniture • Art • Lamps Beatriz Ball • Home Accessories Lampe Berger • Gifts Chalk Paint ® by Annie Sloan Paint & Workshops

SEGUIN, IT’S REAL. REAL NICE TO MEET YOU.

Custom Upholstery • Furniture Repair Interior Design Consultation Custom Window Treatments

830-379-9995 keepersinteriors.com 615 N Austin S t, S eguin, T X 78155

1139 E Court, Suite 220 Seguin, Tx 78155 Located in the offices above the outpatient rehab at Guadalupe Regional Medical Center

WWW.VISITSEGUIN.COM | 830.401.5000

TheStory of �our Love I

n the enchanting year of 2024, in the charming town of Seguin, Texas, there existed a love so magical that it captured the hearts of all who witnessed its radiant glow. In a realm where dreams intertwined with reality, a radiant bride, adorned in a gown woven from moonlight and stardust, awaited her destined moment. By her side stood the dashing groom, donned in a suit that mirrored the hues of a sunset kissed by eternal promises. Their love story, a tapestry of shared laughter and whispered confessions, had blossomed like a rare and wondrous flower in the garden of time. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of passion and commitment, the two embarked on their extraordinary journey, where each step was a dance, and every heartbeat a melody that echoed through the pages of their timeless fairy tale.

{ FEATURE }

The

Perfect setting

find a Wedding Venue That Speaks to Your Love Story

Story by Sarah Maskal Photos by Melanie Krause - Just Smile Photography

A

wedding is one of the most special and memorable days in a person's life and, as such, everyone wants theirs to be perfect. With so many things to consider for this momentous occasion, the venue is perhaps the most important. The right venue can set the tone for the entire event.

There are several things to keep in mind when searching for the ideal venue. Approximate guest size, included amenities, decor and even weather conditions all can play pivotal roles in your venue selection.

12 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

Recent bride Letty Neskora and her husband Jason Neskora said two of the main factors in their decision were cost and proximity.

“For us, I think it was mostly the location and the price. It was only a few miles down the road from our house,” Jason said.

The setting is also a crucial aspect to take into account.

“I wanted it to be an outside wedding,” Letty said when talking about their venue search. “We like being in the backyard and just kind of hanging out being in the laidback atmosphere, so that's one of the things I was looking for.”

The event venue they chose, The Oaks of Ever After, had an outdoor rustic appeal the couple loved.

This upcoming year, a variety of venue options are forecasted to be popular. They range from traditional ideas like destination weddings at beautiful beaches or 14 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

Your Comfor t is Our Business 2023

SG H

THE SEGUIN GAZETTE

BEST OF THE BEST

17 Years in a row!

94. our customers since 19 Providing comfort to

830.303.86| 2ww4w.TriCountyAC.com

155 St., Seguin, Tx 78 510 North Austin ING IR CONDITION H E AT I N G & A

License#TACLA0

10612C

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 15

popular attractions to some newer and more unconventional trends.

One trend that gained traction during the beginning of the COVID pandemic was mini-weddings.

Even now that larger gatherings are back in full swing, smaller weddings at local venues still have an intimate charm.

For more eco-friendly couples, green wedding venues have become quite sought after.

Sustainable businesses that boast less waste and locally sourced foods and flower arrangements are becoming more widely available.

Non-traditional locations have made a rise on the list of favorite venues as well. With many brides and grooms opting to get married in art galleries, barns, museums, boats and more, this venue option lends a unique atmosphere sure to make any wedding special.

Another trend sure to make your wedding more enjoyable for guests is experience-oriented venues.

Whether they offer a fireworks show, interactive food displays or acrobatic performances, your friends and family will certainly be entertained. If that's not enough, you could even go all out and hold your event at a casino or amusement park.

If none of these choices feel like quite the right thing to showcase your big day, perhaps the wedding weekend is the new trend for you. Why not make it an all-out affair with a venue that includes lodging for you and your guests as well as amenities like spa treatments and brunch gatherings? This alternative lets you spend more time with the people you love to celebrate your new marriage.

With so many great ideas to choose from, it's no wonder it can leave some couples' heads spinning. Just remember, in the end, the most important thing is that your venue selection is a place that brings you joy. No matter where you get married, you'll be making memories you'll never forget.

16 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

Wedding and Event Planner, Photography, Catering and Much More

210-585-2988 Seguin, Texas Veteran Owned and Operated Katy and Richard Whitt info@katygeeweddings.com www.katygeeweddings.com

Let us get you wedding season ready!

Monday - Friday 10AM–6PM Saturday - 10AM–5PM • Sunday - 12–4PM 114 S Austin St.

Follow us on social media for more info @SouthernGood

@The-Mercantile-at-SouthernGood

206 S. Austin St.

{ FEATURE }

Harmony

Beyond Sight

Transforming Wedding Celebrations with Stellar Performances

Story BY STAN LELAND Photos by Felicia Frazar

G

eorge Winfield has been playing piano and organ music for weddings since he was 15 years old. He also plays for a local church twice a month and does special occasion music when asked. George does all this totally blind.

“I was born blind,” George said.

“I attended a school for the blind from first to 12th grade.” During second grade, the music teacher invited the students to learn how to play piano.

18 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

“I said, ‘why not,’” George chuckled.

He began his musical career by not only learning the mechanics of playing the piano, but also learning the Braille notation system for music. He said blindness enhanced his ability to hear the music with greater clarity than a sighted person.

At home, his family had a Spinet piano, an entry-level piano produced from the 1930s to the 1990s. It was difficult to tune and did not hold the tuning very long. Consequently, the piano tuner made frequent visits to their home. Because of George’s ability to hear the proper pitch for each note, he said he could tell when a note was off.

“The piano tuner regularly left a few of the notes slightly off-key,” George said, adding it made it a distraction when he played.

In high school, one of the elective classes offered was piano tuning.

“I decided I could do a better job tuning our piano,” George said.

He learned how to open the various types of pianos and tune the 230 strings found in an average piano.

"...everybody looks different on the outside but under the skin we’re all alike."

“I do it all by touch and feel,” George said. “It’s kind of like surgery; everybody looks different on the outside, but under the skin, we’re all alike.”

George still tunes pianos in the Seguin area.

He also plays piano and organ for a church in Cypress Mills twice a month. Since he became a church accompanist in the 1960s, he has most of the hymns committed to memory.

20 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

WHERE YOUR WEDDING DREAMS COME TRUE

WWW.HARPERHILLRANCH.COM

12300 HUBER ROAD, SEGUIN, TX 78155 •(512)214-1614

On occasion, he’ll get a song he doesn’t know. If so, the other accompanist will dictate the song over the phone to George, who will transcribe it into Braille. He then practices it until memorized. As impressive as this process is, it’s even more so knowing he gets the song list the Tuesday before the Sunday he plays.

Besides church services, George has played in retirement homes and brings a full repertoire of oldies the residents enjoy. He even played in a three-piece country band in high school. He also began playing for weddings in high school.

His cousin was getting married in El Campo, and she wanted George to play for her wedding. At the time, George was 15 and had never played for a wedding. The date was July 20, 1969, a day his family will always remember, as well as the entire world. That was the day Apollo 11 landed on the moon.

The wedding was scheduled for 3 p.m., which also was the time the astronauts were to land on the moon.

George was at the organ playing the songs his cousin had selected as prelude music. While he played, he assumed guests were coming in for the wedding.

Unknown to him, because he was blind, all the guests went into the reception hall to watch the moon landing on TV. George played all the prelude music, and because he never got the signal that the bride was ready to come down the aisle, he hesitated for a moment and then began playing all the prelude music again. Astronaut Neill Armstrong made his famous statement, “Tranquility Base, The Eagle has landed,” at 3:17 p.m. CST. At about 3:20, George’s father interrupted the crowd around the TV by asking, “Y’all gonna get married or not!?”

While most people his age would retire, George continues to play piano and organ on Sundays, tune pianos during the week, and provide piano and organ music for weddings and special occasions.

“My talent is a gift from God, and I would be selfish not to share it,” he said.

22 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

New Braunfels, TX • 210-992-3107 • www.weareyourevent.com

• Family Medicine • Weight Loss • Hormone Therapy • Aesthetics • Botox and Fillers • Ultherapy • Body contouring • Dermaplaning • Micro Needling • Medi Facials • Women’s Health

Professional Quality Service You Can Trust

wki

WESTERHOLM K O E H L E R INSURANCE

HOME. AUTO. LIFE. COMMERCIAL.

10% OFF ALL FACIALS

830-379-7352 533 E. Court St. • Seguin www.wkitexas.com

SEE LIFE CLEARLY WITH LASIK

Schedule a free consultation today.

908 E Court St., Seguin TX 78155 830-379-EYES (3937) EyesTx.com

Dr. JT Kavanagh, Dr. Sharron Acosta, Dr. Christina Bui, Dr. Jason Burns In New Braunfels, San Antonio, San Marcos, La Vernia, Gonzales, Castroville, and Hondo.

FREE ADMISSION

REGISTRATION REQUIRED

C H A M B E R Real business, leaders, community.

BOOTHS ARE GOING FAST! BOOK YOURS TODAY!

BUSINESS IN TOYLAND

SG ★

THE SEGUIN Gazette

{Feature }

Wedding Bells & Blue Suede Shoes

Meet the Elvis Impersonator Turning Nuptials into Rock 'n' Roll Extravaganzas

Story by Dalondo Moultrie Photos By Victoria Gaytan

F

rom the beginning, it seems Seguin resident Mike Andrews was put on earth to perform.

Born in Hollywood, Andrews began making people laugh and smile at an early age and continues to do so now.

“I was one of the original ‘Kids Say The Darnedest Thing’ kids when I was 3 in 1963,” Andrews said. “I was telling jokes then.”

Since way back then, his act has changed. He now does voice impressions and, most often, dons an Elvis Presley costume to perform as The King.

26 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

While showing off his Elvis impersonation at a relative’s 2011 wedding in Liverpool, England, Andrews said he sort of found a niche he had never expected. He was asked to perform as Elvis at the wedding and has done so several times over in subsequent years.

It took off when a friend offered to stitch together an Elvis-appropriate outfit for him, Andrews said.

“She knew I could do voices, and she said I’ll make you an Elvis suit,” he said. “She made the white jumpsuit. I started doing more events, but then I had some people want me to sing at weddings.”

Some have asked him just to wear a wig. Others want a wig and a hat or something more formal for a wedding. Still, other wedding participants request it all — full jumpsuit, wig, the whole nine yards, Andrews said.

At the Liverpool wedding, the bride loved the color pink, so she had him sing in a pink jumpsuit.

While he takes such requests from a bride and groom, one thing Andrews said he won’t take from a couple for whom he performs is money. He does the weddings for free.

Having had a daughter and a son get married, he knows what a wedding can cost and wouldn’t want to put any further undue burden on couples, Andrews said.

“It will always be my gift,” he said. “I’m not a handyman, I’m not physically strong and all of that kind of stuff, but I can make people laugh, and I can make people smile.”

Beyond weddings, Andrews said he also offers his time as Elvis for free in other ways. He performs as the Rock 'N' Roll legend at Alzheimer’s units in the area. Again, he doesn’t charge and thinks the performances are beneficial to people facing cognitive issues.

“It’s good for them. It helps 28 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14, 2024 NOON-5 P.M.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14, 2024 JW MARRIOT RESORT & SPA NOON-5 P.M.

23808 RESORT PARKWAY SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS JW MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA

23808 RESORT PARKWAY | SAN ANTONIO | TEXAS

TICKETS: Buy one get one FREE!

TICKETS: Buy one get one FREE!

for more information, visit

WEDDINGFAIRSHOW.COM

For more information, visit WEDDINGFAIRSHOW.COM

The Crystal Chandelier Event Center

WEDDING VENUE, BANQUET HALL, MEETING ROOMS AVAILABLE

Perfect for Weddings, Birthdays, Dances, Service Club Meetings and Fundraising holds up to 225 people

Yellow Rose Room Holds up to 70 people

FULL SERVICE CATERING AVAILABLE

Fourth Friday Dance

The Merles

Friday, JANUARY 26

Doors open 6:30 | Music starts at 7:30 Presale tickets $10.00 | at the door $15.00

830-303-6612 • 510 E. Court - Seguin • www.silvercenterseguin.com GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 29

with their memory,” Andrews said.

“I only do three or four shows performing in the cafeteria at the nursing home.”

"...I love making people laugh and seeing smiles on faces.

Even when I’m singing, they’re smiling and some are dancing.”

But there is a business component to his impressions. Andrews impersonates other famous people and takes the show on the road.

He gets paid for performances, emceeing and hosting gigs, he said.

Even the ones where he acts like Elvis can draw crowds and a paycheck, he said.

“Most of my appearances as Elvis are non-wedding related,” Andrews said. “I go to Vegas a couple times a year. I do some standup.

I do some dueling Elvi with another Elvis impersonator.”

Initially, he wasn’t a huge Elvis fan. But after developing the performance dedicated to The King, Andrews developed an enormous affinity for Presley.

He dug into performances, gained a deeper respect for the artistry and learned to love Elvis.

There’s something great about being The King, Andrews said.

“There’s a vanity portion to it,” he said. “Elvis doesn’t really perform with other people. I get (all) the attention. I love making people laugh and seeing smiles on faces.

Even when I’m singing, they’re smiling, and some are dancing.”

What else could a born performer ask for?”

30 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 31

KAYDEN PARK III KAYDEN PARK III G

A

N SI

W O N

KAYDEN PARK III KAYDEN PARK III

1913 Post Road 19131913 Post Road 1913 Post Road Post Road 1913 Post Road,

LE

New Braunfels 72,000 sq ft OFFICE/WAREHOUSE

72,000 s 2,000 - 1

72,000 sqOFFICE/WAREHOUSE ft OFFICE/WAREHOUSE 72,000 sq ft OFFICE/WAREHOUSE 72,000 sq ft Now Pre-Leasing in 2,000 sf increments Now Pre-Leasing in 2,000 sf increments Now Pre-Leasing in 2,000 sf increments 72,000 sq ft OFFICE/WAREHOUSE Now Pre-Leasing in sf increments Build Out to 2,000 Suit Build Out to Suit 2,000 - 12,000 spaces available Build Outsq toftSuit

Build BuildOut Out toto SuitSuit

Contact: Mary Ann Carter Realty • 830.606.5353

Contact: Mary Ann Carter Realty • 830.606.5353

Contact: Mary Ann Carter Realty • 830.606.5353

Contact: Mary Ann Carter Realty • 830.606.5353

Seguin

Specializing in Care of the Foot & Ankle Charles White, DPM

• Diabetic foot care • Primary podiatry • Wound care • Sports medicine

• Foot and ankle pain • Ingrown toenails • Nail/skin care

Call now for an appointment!

830-491-9211 - Prompt appointments available - Most insurances accepted

932 South State Hwy. 123 Bypass, Seguin, TX 78155

We Sell an experience and a Service Embrace the new year as an opportunity to start a fresh chapter and open new doors. When you’re ready, We’ll be there for you.

WHEREVER YOU GO. STAY CONNECTED AND GET THE LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES.

IN PRINT AND ONLINE.

now, the real news. real And news. now, the real news.

Find it here fi rst.

109 W Court St 480 S Seguin ave re first. Find it here Seguin first.

New braunfels

WWW. A ND E R S PIE RCE.COM

830-372-9466

830-214-6002

E SEGUIN GAZETTE N GAZETTE www.seguingazette.com THE SEGUIN GAZETTE tte.com bringing life to your doorstep since 1888

WWW.SEGUINGAZETTE.COM orstep since 1888

guingazette n: guin.gazette

Follow on: bringing life to your doorstep since 1888 instagram.com/seguin.gazette twitter.com/seguingazette twitter.com/seguingazette facebook.com/seguingazette

www.seguingazette.com

Follow on: instagram.com/seguin.gazette

twitter.com/seguingazette

{ on the scene }

Love Radiate

Down the Aisle

Celebrate Every Shape, Size and Beautiful Soul on Your Wedding Day

Story by BiANCA RAWLINGS

T

he journey to the altar is a special occasion filled with joy, yet societal pressure to conform to beauty standards can cast a shadow on the celebration.

Couples often find themselves striving to achieve a specific look before their big day and not just in terms of the decor and venue. This pressure to look a certain way, no matter the costs, for a (typically) one-time event can significantly impact body image and overall well-being, particularly for brides-to-be who already face numerous body-related pressures in their everyday lives.

Body image can be defined as our thoughts, perceptions and attitudes about one’s physical appearance,

34 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

according to the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA). This can be negative or positive. Positive body image generally includes feeling comfortable and confident in your body.

It involves acknowledging that the way your body looks has little to do with your character or value as a person. Negative body image includes feeling shame, anxiety or self-consciousness about one’s shape, as well as a distorted perception of physical appearance.

Individuals who identify as women are more likely to have negative body images than those who identify as men, according to research from Bradley University.

Women are given messages throughout their lives that their bodies and looks are the most important things about them. Through media, advertising and social media, women see false beauty ideals nearly all day long.

These standards of beauty are usually not achievable or realistic and, according to the National Eating Disorder Association, some may turn to expensive appearance-altering procedures, including plastic surgery, injections or “fillers,” in attempts to mirror what is shown in the media. This causes poor body image, which can trigger disordered eating, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, shame, eating disorders, self-hatred, depression and low self-esteem. All of these are very harmful to a person’s mental health.

With this information in mind, it becomes obvious how damaging the culture of “sweating for the wedding” can be for brides-to-be, not only in the short term but potentially beyond the big day.

A recent study reported on healthysocialmedia.org, uncovered that more than 50% of female participants planned to shed pounds before their wedding, with 67% intending to intensify their exercise routines. While the natural desire to look and feel one's best on the 36 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

nEW

Orthopedics in

r e V a L

Orthopedics Office care for m High quality in APPOINTMENTS nEW PROMPT a iAVAILABLE andG.i La Verndisorders RANKED TOP 2% IN THE NATION FOR JOINT & TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT BY HEALTHGRADES IN 2022

quality care for musculoskeletal •SportsTODAY! injuries •TraumBo CALL High 830-379-9492 disorders and injuries.

•Sports•Joint injuries •Trauma •Fractures EMERGENCY: 830-379-2411 Replacements •ArthritisPRO •H •Joint Replacements •Arthritis •Hand/Foot Problems Walnut Family Springs Family WeHealth Accept Most Insurances, Including Worker’s Comp & Medicaid Walnut Springs Health G. Steven White, MD trent J. twitero, MD 309 Silverado St., La Vernia Steven 280 S. KingG. Street • Seguin, White, TX 78155 MD tre 309 Silverado St., La Call Vernia Spor for an appt. 830-379-9492

280 S. King St. Seguin, TX WWW.SEGUINORTHOPEDICS.COM • • •

Join

Call for anWalnut appt.

830-379-9492 Springs Family Health 309 Silverado St. LaVernia, TX LaVernia Patients Seen Thursday Mornings Patients also seen in Kenedy Prompt Appointments Available!

Most insurances accepted

CALL FOR AN APPT. 830-379-9492

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 37

wedding day is understandable, the short-term hyper-focus on body molding is often unsustainable and damaging.

Crash diets and extreme exercise regimens can have immediate adverse effects, making individuals feel sluggish, moody, nauseated and achy, USnews.com reported. Beyond these short-term consequences, such drastic measures can set up individuals for rebound weight gain in the long term. It's essential to recognize that the pursuit of an idealized body for a specific event may compromise one's overall health and well-being, both in immediate and extended timelines.

The “sweating for the wedding” mindset parallels the pattern observed with New Year's resolutions for weight loss. Drawing from personal experience as a fitness professional, I have observed that clients who prioritize feeling healthy, strong and confident — rather than solely appearance-related goals — are more likely to adopt sustainable lifestyle changes.

I would suggest swapping out rigid, negative-focused goals such as “lose 20 pounds or be a size 8” with a more flexible, positive goal of “enjoy a walk or jog (or another activity that brings you joy) every day with my fiance.” This sort of simple swap will help you be closer to your partner but also bring you closer to who you are and how you want to live your life.

Redefining the culture around wedding preparation is crucial for brides and grooms, emphasizing sustainable well-being over shortterm aesthetic goals. Couples should be encouraged to focus on celebrating their love and commitment as well as embracing each other for who they are as they work to build healthy (both physically and emotionally) relationships. Shifting the focus from appearance to overall well-being promotes a healthier and more positive journey toward the wedding day and beyond.

38 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

1024 E. Court St, Seguin, TX • (830)372-1944

FABIOSJEWELRY.COM

FABIOSJEWELRY@GMAIL.COM

Alyson Kirchner, MD

Obstetrics & Gynecology

CUSTOMIZED, COMPREHENSIVE CARE FOR WOMEN OF ALL AGES

Annual check-ups & routine pap tests Management of abnormal pap tests Abnormal uterine bleeding Fibroids, pelvic pain • High risk obstetrics Prenatal counseling • In-office sonography Postpartum depression • Contraception & teenage counseling Menopausal symptoms • Hormone replacement Sexual dysfunction • Infertility Office Procedures - Hysteroscopy Genetic screening for hereditary cancers Dr. Kirchner is a board certified, skilled surgeon, specializing in minimally invasive surgeries such as: robotic and laparoscopic hysterectomies, pelvic floor reconstruction and incontinence

Same location, new practice

1339 E. Court, Ste. 210 Seguin, Texas 78155 • 830.379.1500 www.kirchnerwomens.com Or visit us at our clinics in Cuero, and Gonzales

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 39

{ CULINARY CREATIONS }

The irresistible charm of

�'mores Elevate Your Wedding Reception with a Sweet, Toasty marshmallow Experience

Story and photos by Felicia Frazar

W

hen brides and grooms plan their weddings, they take into account all of the things they like.

They decorate with their favorite flowers, plants, fountains and sculptures. They hand pick the music that speaks the most about them and their relationships or where they have come from to where they are.

They’ll sample and serve their favorite eats, and sometimes treats, to their guests.

From steak and fish to donut walls, if you can think it, someone will dish it up.

In 2015, one of my cousins got married at Lord Thompson Manor in Connecticut. It is a beautiful venue that is not far from where the couple lives.

40 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

The event included several offerings that included post-ceremony appetizers with a few meat carving stations — each offering a different sample of meat — a full sit-down meal, the wedding cake service and an after party complete with snacks.

While all of it was very memorable — and delicious — I would say the after-party snacks really stuck with me all these years.

In the ballroom, there were tables placed in each corner offering something a little different. There were homemade potato chips of all flavors — barbecue, sour cream and onion, plain. Another was filled with a variety of popcorn — caramel, butter, cheddar, extra butter, candy.

The one thing that rose above the rest for me was a make-your-own s’mores bar.

The table was filled with everything you would think to make a s’more and more.

There were homemade marshmallows, graham crackers, cookies and more chocolate options than a candy store.

For the s’mores bar I recently created, I gave people the option of traditional graham crackers, stripes cookies or coconut cookies with dark chocolate. You had the options of vanilla or chocolate marshmallows from Kindness Bakes or strawberry or peppermint marshmallows from Holiday Charcuterie.

Since I didn’t have a large, backyard fire pit like the post-wedding party, I used a tabletop fire pit and bamboo sticks.

For the chocolate, I arranged a variety of flavors including Hershey’s bars, Almond Joy, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, York Peppermint Patties, and Ghirardelli Squares — caramel, peppermint, 60% cacao, mint.

To recreate, throw in a menu to give people ideas or let them create their own flavors.

Make-your-own bars are easy to create and fun for everyone.

42 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

And now, the real news.

AndAnd now, real news. now,the the real news.

Find ititithere rst.

Find here first.

Find here fifirst.

We provide services to meet every financial phase of your life!

• Commercial Real Estate Properties • Construction • Mortgages • Lot and Land • Credit Cards And More!

Contact Lisa Hernandez at your Seguin Banking Center today!

And now, the real news.

Find it here first.

THE SEGUIN GAZETTE bringing life to your doorstep since 1888

www.seguingazette.com Follow on: instagram.com/seguin.gazette

facebook.com/seguingazette

NMLS #745118

PRESIDENT, COMMERCIAL twitter.com/seguingazette LENDER

830-629-8983

THETHE SEGUIN GAZETTE SEGUIN GAZETTE THEGAZETTE SEGUIN GAZET THE SEGUIN www.seguingazette.com THE GAZETTE bringing lifeSEGUIN to your doorstep since 1888 life to your doorstep since 1888 bringing bringing life to your doorstep since 1888

www.seguingazette.com

www.seguingazette.com bringing life to your doorstep since 1888

Follow on: facebook.com/seguingazette instagram.com/seguin.gazette twitter.com/seguingazette bringing life to your doorstep since 1888

Follow on: Follow on: facebook.com/seguingazette www.seguingazette.com instagram.com/seguin.gazette

facebook.com/seguingazette

instagram.com/seguin.gazette Follow on: instagram.com/seguin.gazette

facebook.com/seguingazette

to change. This ad is not a commitment to twitter.com/seguingazette lend. Follow Restrictions apply. Prosperity on: Bank NMLS #466414 twitter.com/seguingazette instagram.com/seguin.gazette

M.E. Plumbing has served clients in Seguin, San Marcos, New Braunfels, San Antonio, Luling, La Vernia, Gonzales and surrounding areas of Texas since 2005.

2023 THE OF H

ST BE

SG

BES T

facebook.com/seguingazette

www.seguingazette.comNMLS #745118

Loans subject to credit approval. Rates subject twitter.com/seguingazette

THE SEGUIN GAZETTE

BEST OF THE BEST

2021

24 Hour Commercial and Residential Plumbing Services

RMP37076

830-303-5534 Seguin 925 S. Austin St., Seguin, TX 78155 GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 43

twitte

Choose local and independent for all your shopping needs!

Thank you for continuing to support our community.

TokyoMilk Honey & The Moon Flirt With Me Fragrance Kit Southern Good - $34.99

Subtly sweet Honey & The Moon tantalizes the senses with a luxe blend of honey, sugared violet, jasmine and sandalwood. Indulge in shamelessly romantic hand cream and tantalizing eau de parfum - time to get flirty!

114 S. Austin St. | 830-433-4382 www.facebook.com/southerngood

Expensive Wife Freshie Rayne Rose Boutique - $13

On the Way to the Wedding: Bridgerton Pecantown Books & Brews - $15.80 Paperback

These handmade freshies are seriously to die for! They not only smell amazing, they're beautifully made, unique and long lasting.

From No. 1 New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn comes the story of Gregory Bridgerton, in the final installment of her beloved Regency-set novels featuring the charming, powerful Bridgerton family.

225 N. Saunders St., Unit 14 | 830-463-9373 www.shopraynerose.com

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

44 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

NotNot justjust oil, oil, Not Not just just oil, oil, Pennzoil Pennzoil

Pennzoil Pennzoil

SEGUIN SEGUIN

SEGUIN SEGUIN

128 Hwy. 46 128 46 SSS 128 128Hwy. Hwy. Hwy. 46 at Court46 St.S

atat St. atCourt Court Court St. St. (830) 379-6659 Not just oil, Pennzoil

at Court St.

123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

NEW BRAUNFELS

(830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3439

Next to Kohl’s

Not just oil, Pennzoil

SAN MARCOS

(830) 566-1077

123 S. King St.

OPEN: Mon - Fri 8AM-6PM • Sat 8AM-5PM

123 S.S. (830) 379-6654 123 123 S.King King KingSt. St. St. (830) 379-6654 (830) (830) 379-6654 379-6654

(830)566-1077 566-1077 (830) (830) 566-1077

SCHERTZ

NEW BRAUNFELS

123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

1190 Borgfeld Rd.

(830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S

FM 3009 at atat FM FM 3009 3009 (830) 566-1077

at Landa St.

at at Landa Landa St. St. (830) 625-0401

(830) 625-0401 (830) (830) 625-0401 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S 482 Hwy. 46SSS Next to Kohl’s 482 482 Hwy. Hwy. 46 46

128 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 379-6659

988 Mission Dr. at Landa St.

SEGUIN

SCHERTZ

at FM 3009

(830) (830) (830)379-6659 379-6659 379-6659

SEGUIN

128 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 379-6659

SCHERTZ NEW BRAUNFELS BRAUNFELS SCHERTZ NEW SCHERTZ SCHERTZ NEW NEW BRAUNFELS BRAUNFELS 1190 Borgfeld Rd. Rd. 988 Mission Dr. 1190 Borgfeld 988 Mission Dr. 1190 Borgfeld Rd. Rd. Landa St. Dr. 988 988 at Mission Mission Dr. 1190 at Borgfeld FM 3009 988 Mission Dr.

1190 Borgfeld Rd.

(830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 566-1077

(830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3439

at FM 3009

at Landa St.

at Court St.

Next to Kohl’s

SAN MARCOS

SAN MARCOS

OPEN: Mon - Fri 8AM-6PM • Sat 8AM-5PM

Next626-3280 to Kohl’s (830) Next Next to to Kohl’s Kohl’s (830) 626-3280 (830) (830) 626-3280 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 992 Business IH35SSS 830-214-0622 992 992 Business BusinessIH35 IH35 Not just oil, Pennzoil

SEGUIN

128 Hwy. 46 S at Court St.

(830) 379-6659 123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

SCHERTZ

NEW BRAUNFELS

SAN MARCOS SAN SAN MARCOS MARCOS 1044 Hwy. 123 1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 1044 1044396-3439 Hwy. Hwy. 123 123 Not just oil, Pennzoil

SEGUIN

988 Mission Dr.

1190 Borgfeld Rd.

128 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 566-1077

(830) 379-6659

SAN MARCOS

(830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3439

123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

at FM 3009

at Landa St.

Next to Kohl’s

OPEN: Mon - Fri 8AM-6PM • Sat 8AM-5PM

at Court St.

NEW BRAUNFELS 988 Mission Dr. at Landa St.

SCHERTZ

1190 Borgfeld Rd. at FM 3009

(830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 566-1077

(830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3439

(512)396-3439 396-3493 (512) (512) 396-3439 Next to Kohl’s

SAN MARCOS

OPEN: Mon - Fri 8AM-6PM • Sat 8AM-5PM

830-214-0622 830-214-0622 OPEN: Mon - 830-214-0622 Fri 8AM-6PM • Sat 8AM-5PM Not just oil, Pennzoil

SEGUIN

128 Hwy. 46 S

NEW BRAUNFELS

SCHERTZ

988 Mission Dr.

1190 Borgfeld Rd.

(830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 566-1077

(830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3439

OPEN: 8AM-6PM Sat8AM-5PM 8AM-5PM OPEN: OPEN:Mon Mon Mon --- Fri Fri Fri 8AM-6PM 8AM-6PM •••Sat Sat 8AM-5PM at Court St.

(830) 379-6659 123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

at Landa St.

Next to Kohl’s

at FM 3009

SAN MARCOS

OPEN: Mon - Fri 8AM-6PM • Sat 8AM-5PM

Gold Mr. & Mrs. Toasting Glasses Funky Monkey Mercantile - $12

NOW HIRING! COME JOIN OUR TEAM!

These beautiful flutes feature a classic clear glass finish with metallic gold stripes down the stem and text reading "Mr." and "Mrs." Make a toast to love and a lifetime of happiness!

308 E. Court St. | 210-410-5943 www.fb.com/FunkyMonkeyMercantile

G u a d a l u p e C o u n t y l i v i n g

M

A

G

A

Z

I

N

E

NEVER MISS AN EDITION! ENJOY 12 ISSUES OF

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING SEGUIN MAGAZINE

Let's Go Girls Pink Tank Gift & Gourmet - $33

DELIVERED TO YOUR MAILBOX AT THE BEGINNING OF EVERY MONTH FOR ONLY

Show your country girl power with this cute and comfortable sleeveless graphic ladies fit tank top.

★ $39.95! ★

212 S. Austin St. | 830-379-1242 www.giftandgourmetseguin.com

ORDER NOW- call 830-463-0760 GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 45

Faces of seguin email YOUR PHOTOS to SEGUINMAGAZINE@SEGUINGAZETTE.COM

THE ANSWER IS YES We offer award-winning orthopedic care.

grmedcenter.com/yes