I DO 2012

Topeka’s 2012 guide to all things wedding

Real Topeka Weddings Wedding Trends List of Topeka area wedding vendors So much more....

A NEW CHAPTER

I have for the first time found what I can truly love I have found you.

- Charlotte Brontë, from “Jane Eyre”

Vol I • 2012 published by seveneightfive

IN THIS ISSUE

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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editor-in-chief

Maggie Thompson-Doll

the one who tears up at every wedding

’ve been a bridesmaid, an usher, a maid of honor, a personal attendant, a guest book attendant, a guest, a photographer’s assistant, an amateur cake assembler (long story there), a sister of the groom, and oh, yeah, a bride.

I’ve seen more weddings than the average person, and in fact attend one the majority of weekends each year – comes with having a husband who makes his living as a photographer.

The first question everyone asks me: “Don’t you get tired of going to weddings?” My response: “Never.” Every wedding is different, every wedding is special, and every wedding has that moment when I tear up. Yep – every. single.one.

That’s why I was thrilled to join forces with the fabulous folks at seveneightfive to publish a wedding guide for Topeka-area brides and grooms. That’s right – a guide for those of us who choose to call Topeka home, or at least home to our wedding. This magazine is full or great wedding ideas, stories from people on how and why they did their weddings the way that they did and a list of wedding vendors that you’ll find helpful throughout the planning process.

Congratulations and happy planning!

publisher

Kerrice Mapes

writers

Megan Bottenberg Regina Budden Sarah Carkhuff Fizell Red Lotus Events & Post Rock Public Relations Tony Davis Dennis Etzel, Jr. Jill Lira Kerrice Mapes Colin MacMillan Nathan Ham Photography Scott May Mayking Cakes & Confections Amber O’Dell Maggie Thompson-Doll Erin Wynkoop

photography

Keith Czechanski Praire Fire Images Ken Doll Ken Doll Photography EJ Drake Megan James-Rogers Red Barn Photography Jennie Andrews Photography Colin MacMillan Nathan Ham Photography Amber O’Dell

research

Rio Cervantes-Reed Tony Davis Jill Lira Adam Koger Gary Krohe Heather McKee Ashley Moore

copy editing

Melissa Thomson

INSIDE {I DO} vendor list

real weddings 7 24 27 28 30 34 38 41

Classy, Classic + Clean Back in Our Day Soul Joining A Circle of Woman

Bakeries Florists DJs Planners / Decor Catering Transportation Jewelry A little extra zing Photographers Venues Videographers Rental | Photo Booth Makeup Artists

46 51 54 56 57 62 63 65 66 71 77 77 79

The Backyard Wedding - nontraditional Childhood Dreams Become Reality – traditional Bogota, Colombia – destination Quiet Courthouse Wedding

topeka style p44 cover by Ken Doll Photography

adver tisers

tips + advice 12 13 16 17 18 22 23 29 32 33 36 40 46 47 48 49 55 72 78

You’re invited. Options for your “last night out” Bridal fair Two gals D.I.Y. Sticking to a budget Staycation - Honeymoon right at home D.I.Y. at the library Bridal trends and fashions Picking an officiant Words, Yours – wedding readings and writing your own vows Gift giving Bridal shower trends + ideas Tips from a photog on destination weddings Cutting the cake 10 wedding cake alternatives Groom’s cakes Wedding cake trends Musical notes An inside look at some Topeka venues Natural glow – makeup tips to look your best

INSIDE {I DO} seveneightfive {I DO} strives for accuracy in all of our materials and regrets errors. We recommend contacting venues to confirm information. Reprint of any materials in this publication must be approved by seveneightfive designs. Contact seveneightfive@gmail.com | 785.249.3126.

Please take a moment to view our advertisers This publication is made possible due to them.

Please consider checking out their services for your special day and thank them for helping provide this magazine.

6th Ave Ballroom 35 94.5 Country / Bridal Fair: 2 Blue Moose: 61 Blue Planet Cafe: 64 Bosco’s: 6 Boss Hawgs: 58-59 Cigar Outlet: 79 Chinell’s Florists: 13 Dubl-D Entertainment/ The Office (Too): 42 Ditmer Digital and Design: 42 Jade Travel: 76 Ken Doll Photography: back Kooser Design: 64 Nathan Ham Photography: inside cover Panache Designs, LLC: 6 Party Evolved: 6 Porterfields: inside back cover Prairie Fire Images: 13 PT’s Coffee: 64 Ramada Inn / Senate Suits / Holidome: 25 Red Barn Photography: 76 Serendipity: 79 TPAC: 21 Topeka Shawnee County Public Library: 61 Warehouse 414: 76 We want to give a special thanks to Jennifer Falley | Envy Salon for all her resource and idea assistance when beginning this project. Additional thank you to Kent Bingham | Bosco’s for hosting our contributors meetings and deadline work nights.

Sit back, and enjoy the ride with

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785.408.2273

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CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR SPECIAL DAY

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REAL WEDDINGS

by Maggie Thompson - Doll | photos by Ken Doll Photography

CLASSY, CLASSIC + CLEAN.

and a little bit romantic

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here was the birdcage veil with the perfect amount of sparkle, a classic dress without too much fuss that let the beautiful bride shine, a dapper groom with a grin from ear to ear the entire day, flowers that provided that perfect pop of color without overwhelming the occasion, a church alter featuring the perfect lighting for the moment as two people said “I Do,” and then, as the lights went down over Topeka, the reception came alive with a perfect glow showcasing the amazing reception décor.

Classy, classic and clean. And a little bit romantic. Yes, it was.

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That’s the way Carrie Goodman described her vision of her wedding day a few months beforehand, and she achieved it. But not without several months of planning, and some help from family, friends and several Topeka-area wedding vendors. Carrie and Jonathan didn’t waste any time getting started with their planning efforts and started right after their engagement. “We wanted to make sure we were able to get the vendors we really wanted, and we knew that wouldn’t be easy with having less than a year to plan,” Carrie said.

She described her process of finding ideas and inspirations for the wedding day as buying a lot of magazines and signing up on The Knot (a wedding website), along with looking at a lot of other websites and talking to friends. To help her carry out the vision, she and Jonathan worked with Panache Designs, a Topeka-based company specializing in wedding design and

coordination. Panache was then able to take her ideas, such as the use of the colors eggplant and green apple, along with her desire to have a reception that was not too “over the top” and had a crisp, neat look. Floral arrangements from Chinell’s, another Topeka-based business, added the perfect touch.

how they met...

Carrie and Jonathan first met at Highland Park High School, but it’s not exactly a love at first sight story or really a high school sweetheart story. In fact, Carrie wasn’t interested in Jonathan when they first met during what was her senior year and his freshman year in high school. She thought he was a little immature, and while he might have had a bit of a crush

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on her, he thought she might have been a little overthe top as his trumpet section leader in band. And while they both probably thought that might have been the end of their “relationship,” fate had a little different plan.

Over the next few years, mutual friends and common interests kept bringing them back together, and they became pretty good friends. But a romantic relationship never quite materialized. Ironically enough, it was at a friend’s wedding reception where things seemed to click between them, a first date followed shortly after, and as Carrie said, “We have been together ever since, and the rest is pretty much history!” >>continued on next page

The moment where we are announced husband and wife will be the most amazing feeling! Then the reception will just be the icing on the cake!

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Jonathan + Carrie

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HOW

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local vendors Jonathan + Carrie used for their special day.

reception venue + caterer Top of the Tower, Downtown Topeka

wedding + reception design + decor Panache Designs

florist

cake

Chinell’s

Kayleen Mosher

photography

marrying your best friend

Throughout all the work leading up to the big day, Carrie and Jonathan never lost sight of the significance of the day and the commitment they were making.

“The part (of the wedding day) that is most important to me is getting to share our special day with friends and family, and to let Jonathan know how much I love him. The moment where we are announced husband and wife will be the most amazing feeling!

Then the reception will just be the icing on the cake!”

Carrie said. And when asked what she was most looking forward to she said, “I am most excited about marrying my best friend! I can’t wait to say I am Jonathan’s wife and he is my husband! I know he would say the same!”

And their reception certainly was the icing on the cake (and a beautiful cake it was), as guests were wowed with beautiful décor and flowers adorning the Top of the Tower venue. Upon arrival at the reception, guests were greeted with a cocktail hour in the lobby of the Bank of America building and were then invited upstairs into the Top of the Tower restaurant for dinner, dancing, and all that a wedding reception entails. As guests made their entrance for dinner, you could hear the gasps of surprise at how beautifully the reception was decorated. And it was a sight to behold, which got even better as the sun went down and a candle-lit feel overcame the event.

Ken Doll Photography

photo booth

dj

Say Cheez Photo Booth

Dr. Tunes

Following dinner, members of the wedding party shared both heartfelt and humorous words to toast the newlyweds and wish them well, followed by the traditional cutting of the cake created

by Kayleen Mosher. The happy couple’s first dance followed shortly afterwards, and then came two dances between Carrie and her father and Jonathan and his mother.

The party continued into the night with music that kept the dance floor full and the always-popular photo booth which not only entertained the guests, but also helped to create a personalized scrapbook for the couple to remember the occasion.

Looking back on the day, Carrie exclaimed, “As far as I’m concerned, the day was perfect!” Carrie shared that recently a friend of hers said that Jonathan was the happiest groom she’d ever seen, that he was beaming all night and that she could really see how much he loved her. “That made my day when she said that,” Carrie said. “That is how I felt too. So happy!

Everything was perfect.” {IDO}

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YOU’RE INVITED

options for your“last night out”

by Jill Lira

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he last time out as single person, the last time you can have an excuse after you steal another man’s purse and the last time you can pull a thriller and stumble out of a night club.

According to Time magazine, bachelor parties have been around since as early as 5th Century B.C. Although they have more than likely evolved to having a few more drinks and memory loss, the idea is simple: Celebrate the last night before you are wed.

Due to the influx in parties and hangovers, common trends place the bachelor and bachelorette parties a week or more before the actual event.

When a person thinks of a bachelor party, there are usually two words that are synonymous with it: Strip Club. Similarly, two words that come to mind when thinking of bachelorette party: Club Wreck.

However, the evolution and standards set up by “The Hangover” may be reaching their end.

Topeka couples are finding new ways to celebrate their last night of freedom in ways that wouldn’t be deemed traditional by today’s standards. {IDO}

guys + gals

guys

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Motorcycle lessons at Harley Davidson

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Shooting at Ravenwood Lodge

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Paint ball

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Golf weekend

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Beer + Cigar tasting

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Casino

Fishing Lake Shawnee, State Lake, Governor’s Mansion, pond at 37th + Fairlawn

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Camping State Lake, remote locations located just outside of Topeka on every side

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RoadRunners game in the VIP Party Deck

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“The Hangover” may be reaching the end, as couples find new ways to celebrate their last night of ‘freedom.’

gals •

Spa day

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Wine tasting New City, Bosco’s, RowHouse, Ice + Olives

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First-class shopping complete with limo

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Bellydancing, salsa, etc. lessons

•

Passion Party

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Bridal Fair

Topeka’s Leading Wedding Florist

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a must for all brides-to-be

94.5 Country Bridal Fair

The annual 94.5 Country Bridal Fair is now in its forty-first year.

Brides, along with their family and friends, are invited to spend the weekend visiting more than 85 vendors -- expert wedding professionals who will detail the latest trends in floral design, cakes, catering, linens, beauty, music and more. Three runway shows highlight the hottest trends in bridal attire and tuxedos.

This year’s 94.5 Country Bridal Fair will be held at the Topeka Ramada on January 21-22. On Saturday, the hours are 10a - 5p. Sunday’s hours are noon until 5p.

Check out their website for more information: www. bridalfair.94country.com Look online for the 2013 dates, to be held in January 2013. {IDO}

www.chinells.com 785.246.0908 chinells@cox.net

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Weddings on a budget

D.I.Y. Staycation Resources

16 18 22

WEDDINGS ON A BUDGET photo by Megan James-Rogers | Red Barn Wedding Photography | see ad on page 76

TWO GALS D.I.Y. and learn Topeka advantages

by Jill Lira • photo by L&G Photography

S

aving pennies for years, the real question is how do they do it? At this point in time, weddings with strict budgets are not new news, but how to complete this task gracefully in Topeka is.

Julie married Tim Phillips on June 11, 2011 and prided herself on using vast knowledge of Topeka to come up with thrifty yet trendy ways on how to save money. By being a Topeka DIY-er, Julie found herself among homemade wedding invites, save the dates, table centerpieces, name cards for table seating and even $10 shoes that she added glitter spray to because she could never find the wedding shoes she wanted.

“The easiest way to save money when planning the big day is to set a budget and prioritize. Before you even get started, set a budget,” said Julie. “This way you have something to reference back to during the planning process.”

A main feature in Julie and Tim’s wedding was photography.

Julie knew this was going to be a large portion of the budget, but managed to utilize cost saving tips.

“We saved a ton of money on our photographer,” said Julie. “By going with someone new to the area, looking to build clientele, we were able to spend about $1,200 less than the smallest packages offered by larger companies.”

As scary as “new” sounds, it doesn’t necessarily mean inexperienced.

“We did our research and knew she would do a great job and we were not disappointed,” said Julie. “Not only did we save so much money, we ended up with the most wonderful pictures and the rights to print them ourselves whenever we want.”

Wedding cake is one food item people dream about and can’t wait to devour. Just because it is a large part of the reception doesn’t mean DIY or cost saving tips can’t be developed.

“I also saved money by not using fondant on my cake,” said Julie. “It is very popular, but very expensive. It is also chewy and most people just throw it in the trash. We had a beautiful four-tier cake that looked like fondant and cost me $175 thanks to Sweet Dreams Catering out of Meridan.”

Loren and husband Brady Hoffman featured a wedding cake with a unique filling at their June 11, 2011 wedding.

“We had two foam pieces in our cake, so we really only had one layer of cake for our guests,” said Loren. “When that ran out, we had sheet cake as a back-up.”

As some trends fade due to budget, it takes doing it yourself to a whole other level. Loren discovered what really mattered to her and to her guests through her budget.

“Print your own invites...skip the favors, unless they are badass cozies, I mean really, who wants a dollar thing of matches with our name on it?” said Loren.

Topeka can seem like a small town at times, but Julie discovered that isn’t always a bad thing.

“Topeka is a good place to do DIY,” said Julie. “Everyone I worked with had people they recommended and sometimes the name-dropping even got me some discounts. Our DJ gave us a great deal because he has such a good relationship with Top of the Tower. He also did a great job! The dance floor was full all night!” {IDO}

STICKING TO A BUDGET advice from a Topeka wedding planner

by Sarah Carkhuff Fizell | Red Lotus Events & Post Rock Public Relations

O

ne of the most difficult obstacles when planning a wedding – or any event – is sticking to a budget. Brides and grooms often ask me: “How much should we plan to spend on our wedding? ” The answer is not as simple as you might think.

Most couples have a set amount of money that they plan to spend. Even if you are one of the few who has no limit on spending, you should set a goal and stick to it. This is best way to ensure that you’ll get to enjoy your honeymoon instead of worr ying about the fact that you’ve spent more than you had.

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One of the main ser vices I offer as a wedding planner is assistance with budget issues – and I’ve yet to work with a couple that did not struggle to stay on budget and still have the wedding of their dreams.

Here are my best tips for sticking to your budget…

I’m not saying that it’s easy, but you can do it!

“Set your budget and stick to it! Pick out your must haves and then be willing to compromise on everything else. Keep in mind what this day really means. It is not about the party or the dress or the food. It is about the day you marry the love of your life. Make sure that is the most important focus throughout the planning process. Everything else is second.” -Julie

• If members of your family are helping pay for your wedding, ask them exactly how much they plan to spend so that you can budget accurately. This can be an uncomfortable conversation but it is one that you must have.

• Use an Excel spreadsheet to keep track of spending as you book vendors – a running total will help you understand how much you’re spending and where you need to adjust.

• Look carefully at the contract for the caterer and bar BEFORE you sign it. Ask the vendor to add up the total for the number of guests that you expect to have and calculate all taxes. There are often extra charges that are billed as a percentage of the total cost, and it is important to understand this before you sign anything.

• You can never be too detailed – don’t forget to include the cost of things like thank you notes, gratuities, and attendant gifts. They may seem like relatively small costs – but they really add up.

Once you know how much you have to spend – the next step is building your guest list. Before you do anything else, completing this difficult step will ensure that the venue you choose will accommodate your needs, that your menu choices will fit into your budget, and that your wedding will be one of the best days of your life….without having to start your marriage with a new load of debt. {IDO}

STAY CATION

by Tony Davis • photos by Gary Krohe and Adam Koger

honeymoon right at home

I

s it fun to travel to an exotic location? Sure. Are there far-off destinations you’ve been dreaming of visiting for years? Of course. Is it necessary to be far from home to have a memorable, romantic, and overall great post-nuptial experience? Absolutely not. Despite what popular culture might have conditioned you to believe, an expensive globe-trotting tour is not what makes a honeymoon. A honeymoon is made by the experience shared by two people in a new chapter of their life together; the physical location is a minor player.

Staying local for a honeymoon can save you the expense and frustration of long-distance travel. With the money you didn’t spend and the time you didn’t stress, you can devote a greater effort to the three factors that make up a true honeymoon: isolation, enjoyment, and romance.

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A honeymoon is made by the experience shared by two people in a new chapter of their life together; the physical location is a minor player.

enjoyment

Working to enjoy your time together is something that comes naturally to most, but the key is to enjoy yourself in a manner that feels like a honeymoon, not just another day on the couch.

isolation

Isolation doesn’t require solitary confinement; it doesn’t even require much physical distance — it is much more important to place some mental and emotional distance from your day-today life and worries. Most likely you are already doing part of this by taking time away from work, but you can take it farther without going anywhere.

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Unplug from your social network. Your new spouse – not your Facebook “friends” - should receive your undivided attention.

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Hang out the “Do Not Disturb” sign — it’s not just for hotel doorknobs anymore; let everyone know that you are unavailable.

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Be together — you spending time with your new spouse is the entire reason for a honeymoon.

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Avoid television (for the most part) — the length of a romantic movie should be the most time spent in front of a screen.

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Act like a tourist— there are always things about your local area that you have not fully explored or tried, so take the opportunity to try something new. In fact, maybe make it a rule that you only visit places you’ve never visited before.

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Resorts don’t have a monopoly on relaxing — if there is an activity you would do on a traditional vacation, you can probably do it on your own as well. Whether you are relaxing by a local pool, mixing a few tropical drinks, or doing an in-home spa or massage, it can most likely be found nearby.

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Take pictures — your experiences are worth documenting no matter where you are.

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Don’t stress — some things just won’t work out the way you intend, no matter if you’re at home or abroad.

No matter what happens, you are still spending time together. >>continued on next page

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romance

Romance is what sets a honeymoon apart from any other vacation you may take. But like all other aspects of a honeymoon, with a little planning you can make a staycation honeymoon as romantic as anywhere in the world.

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Talk to your partner — if you don’t know what your new spouse considers romantic, then you could easily end up killing the mood.

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Don’t over-prepare — have a few ideas in your back pocket to use when things start to slow down a bit too much, but remember that you can’t schedule meaningful intimacy and romance.

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Make it meaningful — if it’s something you do together all the time, it probably won’t have much of an impact. Go the extra mile and do something special to show you care.

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Romance is fun — but if you’re not having a good time, it’s not romantic. It’s fine to push some boundaries, but it all needs to come back to enjoying the moment together.

We’ve covered a lot of ways to make your honeymoon a time you and your new spouse will always remember and treasure, but in all honesty, these things should be a concern no matter if you are in Topeka or Tahiti. So, what makes a staycation honeymoon different? Some parts of why staycations are a great idea have already been mentioned, but it bears a little deeper look to truly understand.

First and foremost, the money. It’s a tough economy, and budgets are tight everywhere. Do you want to start off your marriage spending on a ceremony and reception, then add on thousands of dollars just to get some alone time? A staycation honeymoon saves expenses on travel, food, lodging, preparation, and incidental expenses. You can take that money and splurge on activities on a staycation, and you will still have a lot more money left over.

Secondly, traveling. No, we are not knocking expanding your horizons or experiencing different cultures. This is in reference to the actual process of traveling. Many couples want to visit

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With a little planning, you can make a staycation honeymoon as romantic as anywhere in the world.

places where the only viable option is air travel, and because of that, you are also choosing to deal with everything that comes with it during a time you are supposed to be relaxing and enjoying yourself. Airport security procedures, cramped confines for extended periods, and the possibility of having your plans derailed due to weather or mechanical malfunction could leave you never getting out the door, or worse, stranded in a place you never intended to be. Car travel can be just as bad, with an extended requirement on travel time to take away from your actual “vacation” time. A staycation honeymoon requires littleto-no traveling, allowing for maximized time enjoying yourself, and even marginalizes bad weather — if you get stranded indoors by a severe thunderstorm or blizzard, you are still together in a comfortable place.

Finally, training for a happy marriage. It may sound peculiar, but think of a staycation like a crash-course in how to enjoy your time together and keep that spark going. If you were to go to some tropical resort, for instance, you could have a great time, but when you get home, you will not have had a freedom to explore all the different ways you and your new spouse can make

the most of your community. In a staycation, you will have developed experiences and memories that can easily be revisited as often as you like, almost like a recipe for instant romance.

Topeka and Shawnee County have a great deal to offer. By taking the opportunity to fully explore your local area during your honeymoon, you will not only be able to create memories for you and your spouse, but you will be able to bond with your community as a couple. Those tropical islands will always be there, and you have the years ahead of you to plan vacations, but you only have one chance to make these particular memories. {IDO}

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DIY

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with a little help from your local public library

inspiration on how to give your wedding those “simply you” touches. contributed by Topeka Shawnee County Public Library

Our newly launched Wedding neighborhood is a bride’s paradise. Our resources enable brides and other wedding planners to:

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alk down our aisles, before you walk down the aisle. Check out library books and music for inspiration on how to give your wedding those “simply you” touches.

TSCPL M-F: 9a - 9p Sat: 9a - 6p Sun: 12 - 9p

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Be inspired by designs for shower and wedding invitations, then take those designs to the pros – or take advice from our do-it-yourself books.

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Learn how to talk the talk of a florist and educate yourself on bouquets beyond roses. Keep tabs on the flowers and colors that are in-season.

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Identify appropriate wedding-themed songs and check out those CDs or download those tracks from the library.

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Impress your guests with handmade wedding favors inspired by a library book.

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Look up wedding etiquette to keep guests happy and your wedding day drama-free.

It’s easier than ever to find our wedding resources, including books on planning a wedding or bridal shower, Brides magazine, wedding music, photography resources, books on flower arrangements, and cost-saving ideas for the do-it-yourself bride and groom.

A few of the newest titles to hit the Wedding Neighborhood shelves include “Beautiful Wedding Flowers” by Diane Wagner, The “Everything Bridesmaid Book” by Holly Lefevre and “Digital Wedding Photography” by Steve Sint. These books are going to be used only once (we hope), so why purchase them when they can be checked out from the library, returned, and reused for someone else’s blissful day.

Whatever your role in the wedding, if you have questions our librarians are always happy to assist. Cindy Packard is your Wedding Neighborhood specialist. The Wedding Neighborhood is located in the West Wing by the Cooking and Lawn & Garden Neighborhoods, which are also great places to browse for wedding day food and flower ideas. For your convenience, we’ve created topic neighborhoods where related materials are shelved together in one area, creating an engaging hub of inquiry and activity that becomes a browser’s paradise. Schedule an appointment for a tour at www.tscpl.org. {IDO}

BRIDAL TRENDS & FASHIONS tips and photos by Amber O’Dell

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Vintage Inspired

Lots of lace, fur, and beautiful details.

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Not White Dresses

Rose or pastel tinted gowns accented with colored shoes and jewels.

A few other hot trends are: 2 in 1 Dresses (One for the Ceremony and One for the Reception!) + 3D Floral Designs (Skirts and trim in full bloom!)

Sculptured Fits

Form fitting silhouettes that define an hourglass figure.

BUYING A USED WEDDING GOWN

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www.preownedweddingdresses.com www.oncewed.com www.usedweddingdresses.com woreitonce.com

We are seeing that the modern bride is both sophisticated and economically smart. Smaller celebrations will give your bank account a break while giving your ceremony that intimate appeal. Mixing trendy fashions with traditional styles will also give your wedding a personalized touch.

REAL WEDDINGS

by Colin MacMillan | Nathan Ham Photography

BACK IN OUR DAY the aisle wasn’t uphill both ways, but things were different

J

oe and Marilyn Ham were married at Loman Methodist, sans air conditioning, on a beautiful 108 degree day. “Everyone in the family photo looked wilted,” Marilyn remembers fondly.

And while the climate around here hasn’t changed much in 61 years, the cost of getting hitched has risen dramatically.

According to www.costofwedding.com, today’s brides and grooms in the Topeka are shelling out an average of $15,000-

$26,000 to photographers, venues, DJs, planners, bakers, florists, and the like.

“We saved and saved. Joe worked at the railroad and I worked at Cappers. We had to pay for it ourselves,” said Marilyn.

Joe rented a suit and later decided to go ahead and purchase it for $10. Their photographer charged $75. The cake was $18 and the dress was purchased at Macy’s in downtown Topeka for $15.

“We decided we’d just splurge on the honeymoon. We went to Rockaway Beach down in the Ozarks.” They had an all-inclusive resort for $35/night,” said Joe. {IDO}

Joe + Marilyn 61 yrs ago

Love is in the air Whether you’re searching for an elegant ballroom to accommodate 500 people, a unique hotel with tons of charm or a family-friendly location for all the relatives, Parrish Hotels has everything you’ll need to make your special day unforgettable.

Whatever your need, We’ve Got You Covered.

www.ramada.com 785-234-5400

www.senatesuites.com 785-233-5050

www.topekaholidome.com 785-272-8040

NONTRADITIONAL WEDDINGS

by Dennis Etzel Jr • photos by Megan James Roger | Red Barn Wedding Photography

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f there is one thing I’ve read about terrific weddings, it is how the couple made the service unique through personal touches that reflected who they are. But what if you and your soul mate want a service without the M-word--marriage--being a part of the ceremony?

Or that, although it means travelling to another state, you finally have the chance to marry the person you love?

What if you believe a church isn’t a building, but a community, so you would rather have your best friend lead the service?

Luckily, all of these social and legal issues have solutions. The next few articles cover many of the opportunities for nontraditional, neotraditional services--stories of how couples will make their ceremonies theirs. {IDO}

REAL WEDDINGS

SOUL JOINING

a nontraditional service

Sarah + Carl’s Story by Dennis Etzel Jr • photos provided by couple

I

t seems like the cliché wedding myth—that you can meet your soul mate at a wedding. It does happen and it happened at my wedding. My wife is a close friend to the Pateriks, a Kansas City family she met when she lived there years ago, so when Sarah Paterik became reacquainted with my now brother-in-law Carl Holz, their conversation during our reception continued after the wedding. Soon, they were dating, but over a long distance, as Carl is in the Navy. In January, his time will be up and he’ll be back in the States, getting ready for his and Sarah’s next big step: soul joining.

“Soul joining?” I thought. They are truly meant to be together, as they have eccentric tastes. Well, this term was new to me.

Sarah defined it for me. “A soul joining, in a nutshell, is what happens when two people feel so connected to one another that they want to spend the rest of their lives together. That might sound a lot like getting married, and classically it is, but I am not a huge fan of the “M” word, and never wanted to sign on to what all it entails.

“As a kid I dreamed of being musician, adopting children, and remaining single all of my life. I ended up with a (then) boyfriend quite against my better judgment about four years ago. Over time he’s grown on me, and now I don’t like to imagine life without him, but the next step in our relationship is something that was way outside of my life plans.

“My fiancé loves me and my own particular brand of crazy and understands that I have a hard time with the idea of willingly entering into many of the customs of domesticity, so we’ve decided to call what we’re having a ‘soul joining’ ceremony, or at least until I can palate referring to our future together as being the “M” word. Shakespeare was wrong, a rose by another name sometimes smells much sweeter.”

I knew planning for their ceremony must be a difficult thing while Carl finishes his tour with the Navy. “It’s been rough,” she

said, “mostly because he’s been out to sea. He can get on the internet, but it’s limited, so we’ve spent a lot of time emailing back and forth for planning. I’ve been doing the legwork.

However, when he’s back he’s going to take on things like food arrangements, marriage license, and linen rentals. He’s totally game for it.”

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A soul joining recognizes the Union between two people and their community.

No government.

No Church.

I asked about the marriage license and Sarah said that, after a lot of debate, they decided to get it. “It will save us from having to hire a lawyer to get Power of Attorney for each other,” she said. However, it was a tough decision for them, based on what they see a Union should be.

“A soul joining recognizes that a Union is between two people and their community,” she explained. “The Government should have no role in it, and neither should the Church.” They chose a Kansas City park to have their service in, one that provides both indoor and outdoor options. Also, they plan on asking their friend to lead the service—someone who is known for his storytelling and who holds the same views Sarah and Carl do.

Finally, I asked Sarah what kind of advice she would give people planning their own soul joining. Her response was similar to what my wife and I held on to while planning: “Be considerate of other’s opinions, but this is ultimately about you and your fiancé. If you two aren’t happy with your plans, it’s time to re-evaluate what you’re doing.” {IDO}

REAL WEDDINGS

A CIRCLE OF WOMEN help create a nontraditional service

by Dennis Etzel Jr. • photo provided by couple

I

love hearing romantic stories of how couples meet — even in places people warn one shouldn’t meet that special someone, like a bar. Holly recollected how she met Charyn under such a circumstance.

“One night, a friend of a friend came in [to Varsity Blues] with a girl I had never seen before. I thought she was cute, but didn’t really get to talk to her much. Then a few weeks later, I had a random text from a number I didn’t know. It turns out, my little sister encountered the same cute girl and gave her my number. She asked if I was planning on being at the bar that evening and I said I was. She came in later that night, and we had a few drinks and talked a little.

Then we had a few more drinks and talked some more.

Then we had a few more drinks. Needless to say, I woke up the next day with a hell of a hangover and a little grin that I couldn’t seem to kick.”

It was difficult for the two to stay connected, as they lived in different towns with unique circumstances — Holly with her divorce and Charyn busy raising her son. Luckily, they were both “texting addicts,” so they remained connected via texts and what few hours they could share together.

“I think she knew fairly early that this was going to be serious,” Holly said. “I was a little gun shy and wasn’t really sure where it was going to go, or what I was ready for yet.

She brought up marriage a few times, and I kind of dodged around the discussion.”

{

Many grow up dreaming of finding the right person, falling in love, getting married, and being happily married. Luckily, with Iowa so close, it is easier for everyone to make these types of dreams come true.

As Holly described her personality as laid back and Charyn’s as goal-driven, Holly said Charyn eventually made a bold move.

“She asked me to run some errands with her,” she said. “So, as much as I detest the mall, I went along for the ride. She walked into Helzberg’s, marched up to the salesman, and told him that I needed to pick out my engagement ring. I guess she figured that I couldn’t say no. Not that I would have. I picked out my ring and she picked out hers. When she picked my ring up from the jeweler, she did the whole traditional down-on-one-knee thing.”

Charyn

+

Holly

I asked Holly about their wedding plans. “We are lucky to have a great circle of family and friends who are talented and generous,” she said. “My best friend’s sister-in-law makes cakes. Charyn’s good friend does flowers. We have mutual friends that do music and all kinds of other things that will be part of the wedding. We have a fabulous circle of women to stand up with us for the ceremony.

“As far as the ceremony goes, we are doing a local ceremony with all of our friends and family in April. Things are going to be fairly traditional. Other than the obvious modifications. She has a beautiful dress that I have not been allowed to see yet. Her dad’s walking her down the aisle. We have the flower girls and ring bearers and all of that.”

Holly and Charyn are also doing a legal ceremony in Iowa. “Like we met each other at the bar, we had the fortune of meeting a registered Iowa officiant at College Hill Tavern [old Varsity Blues] as well. Funny how that place has introduced us to so many who will be part of our day.”

As the two are still working out the legal issues and details, like where the marriage certificate signoff will happen, if there needs to be two ceremonies for the signoff, etc., they still have the sense that everything will fall into place. Many grow up dreaming of finding the right person, falling in love, getting married, and being happily married. Luckily, with Iowa so close to Kansas, it is easier for everyone to make these types of dreams come true. {IDO}

PICKING AN OFFICIANT some advice for any type of wedding

by Dennis Etzel Jr.

F

or every wedding license, there are signatures one needs, and one of them is of the ordained officiant. People often choose a church wedding where the minister or pastor takes your wedding license, signs it as the officiant, and mails it in. However, in the State of Kansas, there are other ways to have someone be your wedding officiant: Have someone be an ordained officiant via online. For around $30, your best friend can become an ordained wedding officiant. There are several websites that a simple web search will reveal.

As a couple, you can give each other away.

Along with the two required witness signatures, you can simply write “self ” under the officiant signature section.

Hire someone, but I would not recommend this until you meet her or him, discuss what will be said, and that you have a good “gut” feeling about hiring the person who will be leading your wedding. In other words, I would not trust the internet.

Remember: the sooner you pick up your wedding license (usually takes three days), the better. {IDO}

Ryan + Stephanie Cavanaugh

by Tony Davis | photo contributed

nontraditional

THE BACKYARD WEDDING

REAL WEDDINGS

“I wore flip-flops, pants, and a button-down shirt,” said Ryan. “My grandmother leaned over to my father and said, ‘Well, this is different!’”

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hen I sat down with Ryan Cavanaugh and his new wife Stephanie to speak with them about their recent nuptials, one word summed up everything: nontraditional.

non-traditional wedding tips from Ryan + Stephanie

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“We actually shunned a lot of staunch traditions,” said Ryan, grinning. “Couples put so much focus, energy, and money into the ceremony, and by the time it’s over, the meaning gets kind of lost.”

HOW

Stephanie was quick to agree. “The wedding fit our personalities.

We wanted to just have friends and family around, and have time to really connect with them.”

The backyard wedding, held in October, was an intimate affair, with less than 20 family and close friends in attendance, presided over by a retired pastor who is a long-time family friend. Dress was causal — extremely casual.

“I wore flip-flops, pants, and a button-down shirt,” said Ryan.

“My grandmother leaned over to my father and said, ‘Well, this is different!’”

The reception was larger, but followed in the same vein.

“We didn’t want for people to feel obligated to get us gifts,” said Ryan. “So we had a house-warming party instead.” The idea seemed to be popular, with more than 200 guests visiting the couple over the course of three hours. Even with a large party going on, the couple kept a mellow, no-stress attitude.

“We weren’t tied to any idea about what had to happen,” said Ryan. “There was no make-or-break thing. No matter what happened, it was all okay.”

In the end, no cake, no bouquet, and no traditional wedding trappings resulted in a day that was perfectly Ryan and Stephanie. But the trail-blazing doesn’t end there.

“We are not doing a honeymoon,” said Stephanie. “Instead, on the day we got married every month we plan on doing something special together.” {IDO}

friends + family

Look to your friends and family for skills.

Friends and family cooked and a friend played music at their reception. It helps keep the cost down and gives a great intimate feeling to your event.

prioritize your wants Know what is really important to you and your spouse-to-be about your big day.

voice of reason Someone has to be the voice of reason. If you both start getting carried away with new ideas, your budget and your stress level could feel it in the end.

relax Something is going to happen that you didn’t intend or plan, so take it as a new memory and not as a problem.

communication Communicate with everyone. Let people know what you want and what they should expect. No one wants to be the odd-one-out amongst all your guests.

WORDS, wedding readings and YOURS writing your own vows

by Dennis Etzel Jr. • illustration by Amanda Reynolds

W

ith the tradition of weddings comes the tradition of readings and vows—and you’ve probably thought of First Corinthians Chapter Thirteen (“Love is patient, love is kind,” and so on). Maybe you are a member of a church (or soon will be), and there are specific vows led by the priest, minister, or pastor.

These are good things—traditional things—but I’d like to use this moment to help with other considerations.

For example, when Carrie and I were married, we had a Christian wedding, so we wanted poetry from the Bible in it. We went with Song of Solomon—in its original Hebrew. We each said “Ani L’Dodi, v’Dodi Li” while placing the ring on the other’s finger.

I’m guessing few realized that phrase translates into “I am my Beloved’s, and my Beloved is mine” (Song of Solomon 6:3).

For other Biblical readings, I recommend the entire Chapter Three of Song of Songs.

Of course, one can find a treasure travelling to the Eastern traditions. Why not choose the Sufi poet, Hafiz? Here is a selection titled “Our Union”: Our union is like this: You feel cold so I reach for a blanket to cover our shivering feet.

A hunger comes into your body so I run to my garden and start digging potatoes.

You asked for a few words of comfort and guidance and I quickly kneel by your side offering you a whole book as a gift.

You ache with loneliness one night so much you weep, and I say here is a rope, tie it around me, Hafiz will be your companion for life.

Personally, I have no issues in changing the “Hafiz” to “I” if reading this passage out loud, as the people attending might ask to each other, “Who is this Hafiz character?”

One more reading for you BBC watchers or British Lit majors. Why not pour on a little Brontë?

I have for the first time found what I can truly love–I have found you. You are my sympathy–my better self–my good angel–I am bound to you with a strong attachment. I think you good, gifted, lovely: a fervent, a solemn passion is conceived in my heart; it leans to you, draws you to my centre and spring of life, wrap my existence about you–and, kindling in pure, powerful flame, fuses you and me in one.

-Charlotte Brontë, from Jane Eyre.

This is a classy reading to include within your service or as part of your vows, one that could help define your love for literature and who you are as a couple.

Which is what matters—you two, as a couple. If you can’t escape tradition, maybe slip a note to your Beloved on the big day? If you can make the service “your own,” like Carrie and I were allowed to, you can make a wonderful statement on who you are and will be, together. {IDO}

GIFT GIVING

by Regina Budden • photo by EJ Drake • cutout by Colin MacMillan

non-stressfull gift giving

I

n the midst of registering for the wedding and planning for the thank-yous of tomorrow, it’s easy to forget about being on the giving end of the gifts. Giving gifts to the members of your wedding party is a tradition that is prescribed by every how-to wedding guide, but it can also be one of the details that gets left until the last minute.

friends + family Standard Tradition: • Bridesmaids + Groomsmen • Flower Girls + Ring Bearers • Parents Other Considerations: • Readers • Musicians • Gift + Cake Attendants • Ushers Different people put in different amounts of time in helping with the ceremony. Your brother isn’t a part of the party, but he helped decorate the reception hall. The photographer is a friend who’s giving a discount. Your uncle is officiating the wedding. Who gets a gift?

A good rule is that if the person gets paid, there’s no gift necessary. So don’t worry about buying for the officiant if there’s a suggested stipend, or to the cake attendants if the caterer employs them.

how much

However, gift-giving doesn’t have to be stressful. Finding the right gifts for your attendants just requires you to address three issues: Who, what, and how much.

A bridal Q+A on “Good Morning America” suggested $75 - $100 per gift. But, if you’ve paid for your bridesmaids’ dresses or provided a place for the groomsmen to crash, that much money might induce sticker shock.

“I think that $10-$20 is a pretty good amount to spend on the attendants’ gifts,” said Samantha Greif, a local bride-to-be, who will wed in August 2012.

David White, who hopes to tie the knot in a year, said that he would suggest $20$30. “It’s a big occasion and it’s worth the money to commemorate it,” he said.

“But there’s no reason to be too lavish. The memories are the most important thing.”

Gifts for parents should be at the top of the list, and may be more expensive than others.

“I plan to get my fiancé and I’s parents a set of professionally framed photos of our wedding,” said Samantha. “That way it’s personal and you know it’s something that they want.”

ideas

Gifts for children should be individual, and could be a toy or personalized t-shirt. Generally the bridal party is hardest to buy for.

“I think that I’ll get matching jewelry, some sort of accent piece that will tie together the dresses and everything,” said Samantha. “I’m going to pay for the dresses and shoes, but you know the jewelry is something they can wear later and remember that occasion.”

David prefers mementos because they’re more permanent. “‘Functional” gifts will wear out or break, and you don’t want that to happen to something that’s a reminder of the event.”

No matter what, the gifts need to be tailored to your crew. While the standard engraved champagne glasses will work, personal is best.

“As a groomsman, I was given a tuxedo t-shirt and a plastic dinosaur.

They’re goofy, but I like them because they’re personal,” said David.

“When you choose groomsmen and bridesmaids, that’s a very personal choice, and the gifts are an extension of that thought.”

So, whether you’re giving them golden plungers as an inside joke ($5) or shelling out for leather wine carriers ($130 online), the bottom line is that if you know your party, the gift-giving part can be just as fun as the rest of the wedding experience. {IDO}

REAL WEDDINGS

by Megan Bottenberg | photo by Shelly Jensen Photography

CHILDHOOD DREAMS

became reality

J

arod and Lacey Tetuan got married at Holy Name Catholic Church last August, with all of the traditions of a Catholic wedding and Mexican heritage. Their wedding was designed from years of dreams.

“I always dreamed of having a big wedding, wearing the white dress, walking down the aisle with my father, and throwing the bouquet. With a Mexican background, Jarod always dreamed of incorporating his family’s traditions and having an enormous reception,” said Lacey.

With more than 600 people in attendance, Holy Name Catholic Church was standing room only. Seven bridesmaids wore lavender gowns from David’s Bridal. The seven groomsmen wore grey suits from Savvii. There were four ushers, four sets of Padrinos, sponsors of the couple during their lifetime of marriage, two candle lighters, and three ring bearers. Flowers, which were of lavender hydrangea, roses, and calla lilies, were designed by Chinell’s.

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Jarod and Lacey created their unique dream traditional wedding.

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The traditions incorporated into the wedding are what made it memorable. During the ceremony, a family bible and rosary were presented to the couple. The bible is to continue their spiritual practice, while the rosary will aid in the couple’s spiritual growth and help start the future faith of generations to come.

Lacey and Jarod served traditional Mexican wedding food — Chicken and Mole with Sopa, homemade tortillas, and salad. Family and friends helped as they made 1,200 tortillas.

The reception included Mariachi music. The cake was designed by Sweet Dreams Catering of Meriden.

While the wedding was traditional and included hundreds of people, Lacey and Jarod made sure to make it their own with these special touches. They also made sure it was intimate, keeping all details simple and elegant. Candles and beautiful flower centerpieces were a focus for the wedding and reception. “In order to create an unforgettable wedding day, every single detail counts, especially the inspiration that will allow you to organize an amazing wedding,” said Lacey. {IDO}

timeline

Lacey only had seven months to plan. The key? Work up the ideas and hire very good venues to make it happen.

where they invested

Jarod and Lacey invested most of their time, research and money into the photographer. “Pictures last a lifetime.”

unique touches

Padrinos presented them with a Lazo and Arras. The Lazo, a double loop rosary, acts as a symbol of unit and commitment. It represents the love that should bind the couple everyday as they equally share the responsibility of marriage. Arras, 13 coins, symbolizes the groom’s commitment to support his wife. He is entrusting everything he owns to his bride. Acceptance of these coins by the bride means taking that trust and confidence with total dedication and prudence. The number 13 represents Christ and his 12 apostles.

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BRIDAL SHOWER

by Megan Bottenberg

B

ridal showers are moving away from the traditional and into more relaxed, casual and fun gatherings. Like weddings, showers today are personal and unique. Instead of sitting for hours on end watching the bride open gifts, bridal showers are now more of a festive celebration with your friends and family—but it still includes gifts! Here are some of the biggest bridal shower trends:

activity showers

trends +ideas

A couple shower can be as formal or as casual as you’d like.

Make it an afternoon barbecue or a cocktail party at your favorite local restaurant or the place where the bride and groom went on their first date.

Instead of the typical bridal shower games, play guy-friendly games—croquet, lawn darts, badminton. Don’t be afraid to show your competitive spirit. Does the groom love ice cream?

Set up an ice cream or frozen yogurt buffet. Have a selection of ice cream or a frozen yogurt machine and set out a buffet of toppings, from candies to cereal to fresh chopped fruit.

Bridal showers are still an opportunity to be with your best girls, gabbing over the wedding details. But it’s more fun when you learn or do something. Call in a professional to teach the ladies something new. Or come up with something that allows everyone to bond over an activity.

groom showers

Think about the bride and what she loves to do. Is she a spa girl? If so, go to a local spa for manicures, pedicures, and lunch. Another option is to have a bowling and pizza bridal shower. Want to learn something? Hire a local florist to teach Flower Arranging 101. Ask a local chef from one of the bride’s favorite restaurants to give a cooking lesson. Sweet!, located in Fairlawn Plaza, provides classes on how to decorate cookies, cakes, and cupcakes. Their classroom can be rented for a private class.

Need ideas on themes? Poker Night, Power Tools, or his favorite sports team. For example, if the groom is a beer lover, set up a beer tasting evening with him. You could work with local brewery, Blind Tiger, or a local liquor store to get a selection of brews to taste and enjoy.

One of the biggest trends right now for activity bridal showers is a perfume bar themed party. This allows the bride and her guests the opportunity to create a personalized fragrance. Set up a bar of oils and pretty perfume bottles. Or you can actually buy DIY perfume bar kits with customizable scent options and full instructions online.

couple showers

A couple shower is more like a cocktail or dinner party than it is a bridal shower. Both males and females are invited, and it is an opportunity for everyone to get to know each other before the big day. TIP: Before you plan a couple shower, make sure both the bride and groom are comfortable with this idea.

The gifts at this type of shower are given to both the bride and groom and typically include a mix of home goods and guyfriendly gadgets. Think: power tools or a new coffee maker for that coffee-loving groom.

Todays bridal showers aren’t just for the bride. The groom can be showered too. Throw a luncheon or a small soirée in his honor.

theme showers

No matter whether you choose to plan a traditional bridal shower or a couple shower, themed showers are one of the biggest trends. It is an opportunity to display the bride’s personality.

Is she a candy lover? Make it a candy-themed shower.

Ring pops, candy hearts, and other candies can be served.

Personalized candy bar wrappers, with the chocolate candy bars inside, can be the invitations. Need decorations? Make gumball garland.

Another trend for a theme shower is a fondue party. Fill up your menu with fondue and all the extras for dipping. Other options: Wine and Cheese; Wine and Art—go to Potwin Pottery for painting, wine, and girl time.

No matter what you plan for a bridal shower, be sure it is personalized and unique, with the bride (or groom) in mind. {IDO}

Destination COUPLES WHO SAID “I DO” AWAY FROM HOME

photo by Keith Czechanski | Praire Fire Images

Bogota Colombia

by Kerrice Mapes • photos by Colin MacMillan Nathan Ham Photography

J

eff Taylor, co-owner of PT’s Coffee met his beautiful wife Maritza at a coffee competition in Ecuador where they were both judges. Excited to “just be able to marry the woman of my dreams,” Jeff and Maritza settled on Bogota, Colombia as the destination for their wedding since Martiza’s family was from there. “It made it convenient for her family,” said Jeff.

In addition to an amazing location, the unique wedding was complete with traditional costumes and dancing during the reception and a Chiva tour of Bogota after. (Think Party Bus in Colombia.)

The couple decided to hire Topeka photographer Colin MacMillan from Nathan Ham Photography to travel and capture their special day because they were familiar with the quality of work.

“It was important to have great pictures to remember the event,” said Jeff.

Jeff + Maritza

Jeff suggests that couples wanting to get married away from home look for package deals. “We got a package deal that made it extremely affordable and memorable!” Additionally, he suggests arranging to meet a translator (if needed) in advance to asses their qualifications and to check with Kansas laws.

Big memories were made in Bogota that day, but as with most weddings, it was a day with its hitches. When asked about a funny, memorable event from the day, Jeff offered up the fact that he forgot to order the mixers for the alcohol.

“Everyone drank Black Label straight up.” It’s probably safe to say the dance floor was a bit more lively, and it was a good thing that Jeff and Martiza offered a coffee bar featuring blends from Hawaii and Colombia roasted for PT’s. “Without the love, it is just coffee,” states PT’s. No doubt there was a lot of love in Bogota that day. {IDO}

REAL WEDDINGS

DESTINED FOREVER photos by Ken Doll Photography

Couples Tower Isle in Ocho Rios, Jamaica was host to Ted and Tara Grubb’s 2011 wedding.

Working with a professional travel agent is always a good idea when you are considering saying your “I Dos” away from home. Be sure and check in with Jade Travel to help plan your perfect destination wedding see their ad on page 76.

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on destination weddings

S

ometimes, there are weddings that can’t happen where a couple is currently living. Sometimes it’s because another location is closer to family, special to the couple’s relationship, or part of a shared dream. Wedding photographer Keith Czechanski of Prairie Fire Images has lost track of the number of weddings he has worked, but estimates that around half of them are destination weddings.

“You need to fall in love with the venue. It’s already going to cost a good deal in travel and hotels, especially if you’re helping with or paying for guest tickets. You don’t want to have any regrets on your big day because the place isn’t what you hoped it would be.”

“These weddings are tough because a travel agency alone won’t do it for you,” says Keith. “They may get you the airline tickets and hotel rooms, but for the wedding itself, the reception, you need someone there for coordination.”

Yet despite increased cost and planning, a destination wedding is sometimes the only choice for couples. No matter where the location of the ceremony, it is important to remember that this day, your wedding day, is about being happy together.

In an age where so many rely on the internet for so many services, it is important to not only do thorough research, but to have a representative to assist with all of the details that come about during planning for a wedding. This means that having a friend or family member local to the destination will be a great asset, and if it is a completely unfamiliar place, a wedding planner and travel agency is a must.

Yet, having someone on the ground at your location isn’t always enough. Keith recommends visiting the site yourself to see the major locations at least once before your event.

“Some couples get worked up because they’re far away from home, and they stress too much because they think the destination makes it special,” says Keith. “But I just remind them it’s special because it’s your wedding.” {IDO}

by Tony Davis • photos by Keith Czechanski | Prairie Fire Images | AD p13

TIPS FROM A PHOTOG

QUIET COURTHOUSE WEDDING announced in a big way

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by Megan Bottenberg • photo contributed

HOW eloping tips

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D

o you ever feel like you just want to run away and elope? Maybe to Vegas? Or the local courthouse by the Justice of the Peace?

Chad and Karily Taylor did just that.

“After getting engaged on Christmas Eve, we wanted something small, intimate, and close to home. We decided to have a small private ceremony at the Municipal Courthouse,” said Karily. Most importantly, they wanted the day to be about them.

While they may have decided to elope and not tell many friends, they made their courthouse wedding an event to remember.

Karily was like any other bride. She wore a simple wedding dress from a local department store. She had her hair done that morning at Bella Salon. Chad wore a grey pinstripe suit. Karily carried a bouquet and had a boutonniere for Chad.

They drove to the courthouse for their 11 a.m. Thursday wedding with their two witnesses, good friends and neighbors John and Maria Craig. Chad and Karily were married by a Municipal Court Judge in a short version of the traditional ceremony, spending less than 20 minutes inside the courthouse.

After pictures at the Topeka Zoo, one of the couple’s favorite Topeka locations, with a local photographer, Karily had a surprise for Chad. She had worked with Topeka Performing Arts Center (TPAC) to briefly change the marquee sign to announce their wedding.

“Our favorite pictures from that day are the ones under the marquee. We had not formally announced our wedding date, and a lot of people found out we’d gotten married when they drove past TPAC and saw the marquee that afternoon!” said Karily.

Chad and Karily celebrated with a large party several months later at the Topeka Zoo. {IDO}

announcements

Send wedding announcements out after your wedding, perhaps on your way to your honeymoon destination.

Karily says, “When you choose to keep the wedding ceremony private without fail, there will be someone in your life who has hurt feelings. We just made it clear to everyone that April 19 was a day to focus on each other, but we asked them to join us to celebrate at the zoo several months later.”

party for all Throw a large party for family and friends to celebrate your nuptials after the wedding. You can make the party as casual or fancy as you want.

Chad and Karily had Coldstone Creamery and Jason’s Deli cater and they hired a band, making it a low-key, fun event.

Eloping allows you to spend money on the things that matter to you the most—a wedding dress, flowers, photographer, a honeymoon.

Incorporate your favorite locations into your wedding plans. Chad and Karily included a photo of one of their favorite statues at the Topeka Zoo on their wedding reception invitations.

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IF YOU THINK IT’S EXPENSIVE

to hire a professional, just wait until you hire an amateur.

- Dreux Doty | DubL-D Entertainment

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T Vendor Lists

Bakeries Florists DJs Planners / Decor Catering Transportation Jewelry A little zing Photographers Places Videographers Rental | Photo Booth

46 51 54 56 57 62 63 65 66 71 79 79

Topeka Style

VENDOR LISTS TO HELP YOU PLAN THE BIG DAY

T

opeka is full of great vendors to help make your wedding day a success. From places to hold a wedding reception to caterers ready to feed the masses. There are florists, cake makers and wedding planners to help make your vision a reality.

Photographers who can capture your day and jewelers who can help you find the perfect wedding ring. There are DJs to keep the party going and videographers that can document all the sights and sounds of the big day.

And so much more.

Our goal was to create a comprehensive list of local vendors for you. However, in all honesty, we know it’s invetable that we have missed some. We do know we have a great list of some of the best so use these lists as a starting point - and if we missed someone or got something wrong, let us know by emailing seveneightfiveido@ gmail.com. We’ll use that information as we compile information for the 2013 addition.

And, while we personally know and love many of the vendors in here, be sure and do your homework.

Meet with people to find out about their services, check references, and in the end – do what feels right for you.

After all – it is your wedding day! {IDO}

◄ by Ken Doll Photography

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Sugar +Flower CUTTING THE CAKE

by Heather McKee photo by Megan James-Rogers Red Barn Wedding Photography

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ikipedia.com says “The action of the bride and groom cutting the cake is meant to symbolize their first joint task in married life. The gesture of feeding cake to one another is a symbol of the commitment the bride and groom are making.”

But what is the ‘proper’ way to cut the cake? Generally the groom places his hand, over the brides hand, and they cut the bottom layer of the cake together. The top layer is often saved for the bride and groom to eat on their first anniversary.

After the bride and groom share their piece, the task of cutting the remainder of the cake falls to the person in charge -- the caterer, someone who works at the reception venue, or someone of your choosing.

Tradition dictates that wedding cake should be cut into approximately one-inch pieces, but check with your baker to see what size they suggest.

When cutting a round cake, move in two inches from the tier’s outer edge. Cut a circle and then slice one inch pieces within the circle. Now move in another two inches, cut another circle, slice one inch pieces and so on, until the tier is completely cut. You will then have wedge shaped slices. The center core of each tier and the small top tier can be cut into thirds, fourths, and sixths, depending on size. The same goes for a flower shaped cake. All other shapes can easily be cut into square pieces, or as close to square as possible. Always ask your baker, or wedding planner, if you are unsure. {IDO}

10

Chocolate Fountain – While this is far from a new

idea, executed properly, it can be a great way to scratch that chocolate itch and provide your guests with an interactive dessert experience.

Plated Deserts – Serving individual plated desserts is a

high-class way to provide your guests with a sweet treat.

Give guests a choice of dessert just as you would with the dinner entree.

Traditional cake served with cupcakes | photo by Ken Doll Photography

8

Individual TableCakes – Instead of one large wedding

cake, have a small cake for every table. Mix it up! Have several different flavors available and prominently mark what flavor is on what table. This will encourage people to interact between tables as they will have to move around the room to get the flavor of cake they desire.

Cheesecakes – This is an awesome, unique way to offer

dessert. Just remember that not everyone likes cheesecake and cheesecake is temperature sensitive, so this may not be the best choice for an outside summer wedding.

6

have guests at your wedding. You could even kick it up another notch by offering ice cream too.

– Candy of all shapes and sizes that matches the colors of your wedding, placed in really cool glass containers, arraigned in varying heights. This setup is visually stunning.

10 WEDDING CAKE

alternatives

by Scott C. May | Mayking Cakes + Confections

B

rides and grooms that are bored with the traditional wedding dessert choices or are just looking for something extra special for their wedding reception are hungry for unique options. When it comes to alternatives to the traditional wedding cake, brides today have more options than ever before. So, here’s a list of the top 10 traditional wedding cake alternatives.

5

Coffee & Espresso Bar – This is a relatively new concept.

Imagine having your very own barista at your reception talk about adding some sophistication. Coffee is the single most popular drink in the world. This is guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser.

Chocolate/Dessert Buffet – The possibilities are endless.

From all kinds of treats like chocolate dipped strawberries, pretzels or even Twinkies, to killer classics like cookies and candies, it’s a little bit of something for everyone.

2

7

Pies – There are about as many flavors of pie as you will

Candy Buffet

4

9

3

Cupcakes – The good ol’ standby. Cupcakes have always

been a popular alternative. Available in any flavor/color combination you can imagine, go wild and mix and match for variety. Consider different sizes of cupcakes. Lots of mini cupcakes allow people to try several flavors without filling up to soon.

Cake Pops – If you like the idea of a single serving treat,

but you’re sick of the cupcake fad, than these are for you.

Cake pops are the hottest thing going in the wedding world right now. Cake and frosting mixed together and dipped in chocolate...to die for!

1

No matter what you choose as your wedding cake alternative, any of these sweet treats are sure to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth. Bottom line...be creative and have fun! {IDO} 47

2012 TRENDS: Minimalist Height Exotic flavors Cake pop display Candy/Dessert bar

Ken Doll Photography

GROOM’S CAKES

}

by Scott C. May | Mayking Cakes + Confections

“...the ultimate personalization.”

A groom’s cake is exclusively for the groom and typically showcases his hobbies or interests.

T

here are a ton of stories about the origins of the groom’s cake. My particular favorite dates as far back as the Roman Empire when the groom would break the wedding cake over the bride’s head and guests would scramble for the broken pieces. It was thought that this would bring good luck. Note to grooms: I don’t recommend trying this one out at your wedding. The modern interpretation of the groom’s cake has only just started to take off over the last few years.

While stories about the origin of the groom’s cake vary, one thing is for sure more and more couples are incorporating them into their special day. While most things on the wedding day are traditionally “all about the bride,” the groom’s cake is exclusively for the groom and typically showcases his hobbies or interests. The groom’s cake is the ultimate personalization and can serve several functions at your reception. Some couples use them as a way to increase the total number of cake servings without adding to the overall size of the wedding cake design. Other brides choose to surprise their groom with a cool cake that is all about them. From the simple sheet cake to the intricate carved 3D cake, the only limit is your imagination.

Whatever your reason for having one, you’re sure to enjoy the one of a kind creation! {IDO}

▼ Ken Doll Photography

▲ Colin MacMillan | Nathan Ham Photography

▲ Colin MacMillan | Nathan Ham Photography

WEDDING CAKE TRENDS

W

ith at least a half dozen TV shows about cakes, cake artists have turned into veritable celebrities and the popularity of cake is at an all-time high. It doesn’t matter, men or women, young or old, everyone seems to know what Duff and Buddy are up to and what happened on the latest cake challenge. People’s new-found obsession with cake has led to more than just the bride getting involved in the cake selection process. More and more grooms are getting in on the decision.

(Not to mention mothers of the bride, and even members of the wedding party!)

The year 2011 gave birth to some interesting swings in wedding cake trends and 2012 should continue down that path. The days of the traditional, ornate cake that our parents enjoyed are over. Brides today are looking for elegance and high-style, while at the same time wanting to stay within a budget. This year will see brides not necessarily spending less on their wedding cakes, but instead demanding more value for their money.

less is more Hot for 2012 is a move to a more minimalist style. Less is more.

Simple white cakes using ribbon or flowers to make your colors pop off the cake and really come to life will be popular. This approach creates a blank canvas for your cake artist to really highlight your style.

go tall or go home Another big trend will be height. As they say, “go big or go home.” A tall cake provides an excellent way to add elegance to your wedding reception. A taller cake can be achieved any

id

by Scott C. May | Mayking Cakes + Confections

number of ways. Traditionally, extra height is added using a cake separator of some sort. This is still a great way to add height, but the newest thing is using double tall tiers and tiers of varying height to create a more interesting cake.

options, options, options Some brides are just looking for something completely different than their friends or family members had at their weddings.

Those brides have more options than ever. From the popular cupcake tree to the up-and-coming cake pop display or candy/ dessert bar there is something out there to fit your individual taste.

a non-trend: it just has to taste good All brides today are booking cakes based on more than just looks -- they are taking taste heavily into consideration. Look for an explosion of unique cake flavors this year. Though the standards like white and chocolate will still be staples, exotic new flavors are bound to become extremely popular. Don’t be afraid to incorporate several different flavors on the different tiers of your wedding cake. And remember: at the end of the day it simply doesn’t matter what the cake looks like if it doesn’t taste good.

Regardless of all the trends, your wedding cake should be a reflection of you and you soon-to-be spouse’s personal style.

Don’t take a picture of a cake you like to a cake artist and ask for them to recreate it. You will be much happier if you give them that same picture and have a discussion about how they could re-interpret it to fit your personal style. Trust me, give your cake artist some creative “wiggle room” and you won’t be disappointed. {IDO}

cakes trends + more

49

Billy Vanilly www.billyvanillycupcakes.com 228.2300 | info@billyvanillycupcakes.com Cakes by Dino www.cakesbydino.com 633.6584 | cakesbydino@yahoo.com Confectionary Disasters www.confectionarydisasters.com 408.4016 | confectionarydisasters@gmail.com Dillons - www.dillons.com [Jessi Clark @Dillons North]

357.2660-North |228.8700-10th+Gage |228.8760-21st+Fairlawn 228.4200 29th+Urish |267.1797 29th+California

Hy-vee www.hy-vee.com 272.1763 Lauren North of Blackbird Espresso Bar and Bistro www.facebook.com/BlackbirdBistro 271.8188 | laurenm.north@yahoo.com KD’s Kreations KDMosher@hotmail.com 246.1385

Mad Elizas www.madelizas.com 478.0880 | peggy@madelizas.com MayKing Cakes www.maykingcakes.com 554.8403 | yummy@maykingcakes.com Oh My Ganache www.facebook.com/sinistersisterssweets 220.1809 | amberj918@sbcglobal.net Sweet Dreams Cupcakery wwwsweetdreamscupcakery.net

478.4296 | sweetdreamscupcakery@gmail.com Sweet Aroma Bakery www.facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Aroma-Bakery/245598992132004

teamtripe@yahoo.com

Tastefully Sweet www.tastefullysweet.com 383.8558 | Kristina@tastefullysweet.com Walmart www.walmart.com

357.4827-North | 267.7900-37th Street | 271.6444 Wanamaker

P P P P P P P P P P P P P

other desserts

cake pops

cupcakes

wedding cakes

Bakeries

variety of pasteries mini pastries + European style specialty Tortes upon request No

Yes

Yes

No

P P P P P P P P P P P

cheesecakes, truffles, chocolate covered strawberries (when in season), dipped apples, marshmallow pops, mini cupcakes, and even Rice Crispy Treats cakes

Yes

On request

seasonal flavors to choose from

P P P

cheesecakes, pies, basic cakes, cookies + brownies

P P P

yes

P P

yes

None to date, but is able to

photo by Ken Doll Photography

y

flo ral PERSONALITY F

by Heather McKee • photos by Ken Doll Photography

loral trends tend to follow wedding trends, and the flowers throughout your wedding should match or compliment your bouquet. If you have an elaborately decorated dress, you may want to carry a subdued bouquet, so that the dress isn’t overshadowed. The opposite goes for a more simple dress -- you could really tie the entire look together with a more elaborate bouquet.

Bright colors, but also bouquets with one large, brightly colored flower, surrounded by more earthy tones, have been sticking around for a few years. Bouquets that are loosely bound with ribbon, with the stems exposed, seem to be the style. The use of natural earthy greens and non-flower items, such as feathers, ferns, fruit, and grasses, look to be on the rise for next year.

According to Chris Page, from Chinell’s, “I am seeing more of a trend this year, and look for it to come up more in the future, of having a vintage/shabby chic wedding, and brides customizing their bouquets with brooches. For a rustic feel I had a bride mix pearls, white birch logs, and antique doilies to make a beautiful statement. I see more brides tailoring their wedding more to their personalities and letting their personality shine, more than just being the cookie cutter bride, which I love because it allows me to be more creative and customize their wedding even more.”

No matter your wedding style or flower choice, make sure you make it your own. Ask your florist or do a quick online search and find the traditional meanings for different flowers, and make sure your personality shows through. Make sure your ideas are known, and ask if your florist has any extra things you would like to add to your bouquet or flower arrangements. {IDO}

51

Florists

by Colin MacMillan | Nathan Ham Photography

Absolute Design by Brenda www.absolutedesigntopeka.com brendas1948@sbcglobal.net 266.7999

Hy-vee www.hy-vee.com 271.6548

Chinell’s www.chinells.com chinells@cox.net 246.0908

J’Adore Flowers & Gifts www.jadoreflowers.net amy@jadoreflowers.kscoxmail.com 286.7111

See Chinell’s ad on page 13

Custenborder www.custenborderflorist.com custenborder@mindspring.com 272.5322 or 800.572.5322

Once Upon A Time www.designyourweddingday.com OUATWeddings@gmail.com 582.4637

Dillons www.dillons.com 357.2660 - North | 228.8700 -10th + Gage 228.8760 - 21st + Fairlawn 228.4200 - 29th + Urish 267.1797 - 29th + California

Porterfields www.porterfieldsflowers.com porterfieldsflowers@gmail.com 354.1707 or 800.354.1707

Flower Gallery www.flowergallerytopeka.net 783.0202

Stanley Flowers www.stanleyflowersinc.com 354.1751 or 800.743.1086

Flowers by Bill www.flowersbybill.net flwsbybill@sbcglobal.net 272.2749 or 800.440.2749

University Flowers www.floristtopekaks.com 232.4012

See Porterfield’s ad | inside back cover

Heaven Scent Flowers www.topekaheavenscentflowers.com 232.3961 or 888.293.8180

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DJs

Musical Knights www.musicalknights.grittman.com 357.8585

Dr. Tunes www.drtunes.com 228.1195

PowerHouse DJs www.powerhousedjs.com 286.1292

dUBL-d Entertainment www.dubld.com See 221.2211 dUBL-d’s

Solid Rock Sound Machine www.solidrocksoundmachine.com 266.5273

Minute Man Music 286.1495

Sonny Heller’s Music Box www.hellerhiwater.com 354.8859

Mobile Music Machine

Tidalwave Entertainment www.tidalwaveentertainment.com 215.4752

{

Complete Music www.completemusickansas.com 233.8760

While DJs are certainly a popular way to entertain your wedding guests, bands can also provide the perfect touch to your event.

www.mobilemusicmachineofkansas.com

213.1820

{

seveneightfive {I Do} would love to help you find that perfect band, so shoot us an email at seveneightfiveido@ gmail.com for some ideas of groups that can help you celebrate!

ad on page 42

See Mobile’s ad on page 42

See Tidalwave’s ad on page 42

by Tony Davis • photos ◄ Ken Doll ▲Colin MacMillan

MUSICAL NOTES

do-it yourself, or hire a professional W

hen planning a wedding, there are a number of decisions to be made regarding all of the various details that come together to make the event memorable and special. While some couples may focus on food, or seating, or decorations, a factor that can be just a crucial is if and how you choose to incorporate music into your ceremony and reception. Music, or the lack thereof, can give an event a particular feel, and it is a consideration you must make for yourself. Do you do without, do-it-yourself, or hire a professional? Each has pros and cons, and your desires and needs will dictate which works best for you.

as you choose, but it will take a great deal of time and attention to get everything organized and prepared, especially if you’re planning on trying to automate to have it run throughout the night. This approach can incorporate music into your event and save on expenses, as long as you already have all the music and equipment you plan on using. The drawbacks to do-it-yourself music are that it tends to be quite a hassle, if not impossible, to ensure proper timing and it’s quite easy to give your event a house-party feel rather than something more special and significant.

expense and time spent preparing, but you will also have a good amount of silence during your ceremony and a reception without dancing. If you are planning a minimalist wedding, wish to focus entirely on people without distraction, or your budget simply doesn’t support do-it-yourself or hiring a professional, doing without might be a good choice for you.

a central location or website you can visit to find them, so a good deal of research is required. Knowing in advance if you’re looking for a string quartet, a Monkees cover-band, bagpipers or a dance-club DJ will reduce the amount of digging required.

The well-known counter-argument for professional music: the cost. You will have to negotiate for services of a professional entertainer, and it won’t necessarily be cheap. The good news: you get what you pay for. Dreux Doty, a professional DJ with DubL-D Entertainment with 20 years of experience explains, “Professional music is responsive, it has the ability to read a crowd. You can’t get anywhere near that kind of experience from an amateur.” {IDO}

professional music do without If you have the budget, live bands or a DJ can really make your If you choose to forgo music, you will obviously save on event memorable and unique. Entertainers don’t really have

do-it yourself Technological advances often allow individuals to choose to

create their own musical atmosphere for a wedding. This can be accomplished with as little as a MP3 player, laptop, or tablet and some form of a sound system. This can be as big or as small

55

visit topeka C

ongratulations, you’re getting married! Now you only have 101 things to get done and you’re probably wondering where to start! Don’t worry, Visit Topeka is here to help you put all the pieces together and make your day full of excitement and memories, not stress and worry. We are happy to sit down with you and your fiancé and assist in making your wedding day everything you’ve dreamed of and more.

Maybe your vision is getting married outdoors surrounded by blooming flowers as a string orchestra plays, but you don’t know of a location in Topeka that fits your vision. We can help by providing a list of possible locations and reception areas. We can even recommend local caterers, unique musical entertainment, and cake decorators. On top of those services, we are also more than happy to connect you to local lodging options for your guests.

All About You Wedding & Event Planning allaboutyouevent.com 640.0616 | wedplan@yahoo.com

P

Once Upon A Time Wedding Design www.designyourweddingday.com 582.4637 | OUATWeddings@gmail.com

glenda@panachedesignsllc.com or paula@panachedesignsllc.com

Red Lotus Events & Post Rock Public Relations www.postrockpr.com 218.6320 | sarah@postrockpr.com

Invites/Save the Dates/Programs

P P P P

Events!

862.0123 | events25@hotmail.com

Panache Designs - www.panachedesignsllc.com 554.4863 or 221.1301

Decorations available

Wedding Planners Decorators

Day-of coordination

Complete Planning Services

Did we mention the best part? Visit Topeka is happy to provide these services FREE of charge. If you have questions, we have answers. Call Megan Stuart-Annis at 235.1030 or e-mail her at Megan@VisitTopeka.com {IDO}

P P

P P P P See Panache’s ad on page 6

P P P P P P

P

fla vor

We have presented some local options to help you plan your special day. We strive for accuracy, but please contact the business because things change.

If we missed a business, please contact us at seveneightfiveIDO@gmail.com - and we do sincerely apologize.

57

CATERING Aboud’s www.abouds.com 478.9290

Bradley’s Corner Cafe 235.0086

Applewood Smokehouse * 266.8725

Brickyard Barn Inn Catering & Event Planning * www.brickyardbarninn.com 235.0057 | umoo2me@cjnetworks.com See

Blue Planet’s Blue Planet Cafe * ad on page www.blueplanettopeka.com 64 783.8883 | linda@blueplanettopeka.com

Chappell’s Backyard BBQ & Catering www.chappellsbackyardbbq.com 232.2100 | chappellsbbq@att.net

Boss Hawg’s Barbeque & Catering Co. * www.bosshawg.com See 273.7300 | hawgcatering@aol.com

Field Of Greens * www.fogreens.com 290.4733

Boss Hawg’s ad below

* Places where you can also host rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and more.

MAKE A GREAT IMPRESSION

INVITE the BOSS1014_IDOad.indd 1

locally owned choices G’s Catering www.gcatering.net 232.9032 | gcatering@sbcglobal.net

J L Food Lus Gardin Inc 266.3664

Grandma Wock’s Catering & Concessions 478.4154 | brenda@grandmawocks.com

JoRee’s Catering http://jorees.myshopify.com/pages/catering 230.0244 | eileen@joreescatering.com

Grover’s Smokehouse * www.groverssmokehouse.com 273.7331

La Siesta Restaurant 354.1325

HHB (Hog, Herd & Bird) BBQ www.hhbbbq.com 249.3359 | kimandeddie@hhbbbq.com

New City Cafe * www.newcityonline.biz 271.8646 | luis@newcityonline.biz more local catering options on the next page >>

BOSS!

From your rehearsal dinner or bridal shower, to the wedding reception – turn to Boss Hawg’s to impress your most discriminating guests. Don’t settle for ordinary catered or run-of-the mill banquet food. Savor our award-winning variety of slow-cooked meats and homemade side dishes that will have guests raving.

With Boss Hawg’s you can have your event anywhere you like, inside or out. We’ll bring the meal, and all of the necessities, to you. Or have your party with us.

We can serve small groups or up to 100 of your closest friends. With 16 years of experience we’ll help plan any of your special events or we’ll be happy to work with your florist, decorator or event planner. Whether you invite your boss from work is up to you. But, if you’re looking to impress, be sure to give Boss Hawg’s a call.

Contact our Catering Coordinator at 785.273.7300, ext. 27 or visit our website for more information.

Best of Topeka BBQ every year since 1995.

785.273.7300 | Next to Dillon’s at 29th & Oakley www.bosshawg.com

11/23/11 4:06 PM

59

CATERING CONT. Pepe and Chelas Mexican Restaurant * www.pepeandchelas.com 357.8332 | angie@pepeandchelas.com

Simply Sarah’s Catering www.simplysarahscatering.com 267.6000 or 845.3745 | simplysarahs80@yahoo.com

Paisano’s * www.paisanoskansas.com 273.0100 | owner@paisanoskansas.com

Sweet Dreams Catering www.sweetdreamsofmeriden.com 785.484.3111

Pat’s Pig BBQ www.patspigbbq.com 862.7427 | info@patspigbbq.com

Topeka Shawnee Co. Public Library - Millennium Cafe

www.tscpl.org/cafe 580.4441 | dpetrie@tscpl.org

regional + national options Boston Market www.bostonmarket.com 272.6000

Hy-Vee www.hyvee.com 273.3026

Carino’s Italian www.carinos.com 215.8400 | catering@carinos.com

Jason’s Deli www.jasonsdeli.com 478.4144

Carlos O’Kelly’s Mexican Restaurant www.carlosokellys.com/ 266.3457

On the Border www.ontheborder.com 380.4755

Dillons - www.dillons.com

Panera Bread www.panerabread.com 272.2100

357.2660-North |228.8700-10th&Gage |228.8760-21st & Fairlawn | 228.4200 29th & Urish |267.1797 29th & California

Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que www.famousdaves.com 272.2944

(places that have a* in caterrers are also good choices)

local places with private rooms perfect for rehearsal dinners or showers Annie’s Place 273.0848 | www.anniesplacetopeka.com

Casa 266.4503 | www.topekacasa.com

Blind Tiger www.blindtiger.com | 267.2739

Celtic Fox 232.6726 | www.thecelticfox.com

Blue Moose Bar and Grill topeka.thebluemoosebarandgrill.com 272.6800 | info@kchopps.com

See Blue Moose’s ad below

Kansan Grill 233.0086 | www.kansangrill.com

The Break Room www.thebreakroomdowntown.com 215.6633 Bosco’s www.boscosdowntown.com 232.6726

Chez Yasu 357.1003 | www.chezyasufrenchrestaurant.com

See Bosco’s ad on page 6

Row House Restaurant 235.1700 | http://rowhouserestaurant.net rowhouserestaurant@gmail.com The Office Too 506.8934 | www.drinkattheoffice.com

Y

our DIY wedding is a snap using your library’s Wedding neighborhood. From invitations & etiquette to music, use free library resources or call Cindy, our wedding specialist, to help with those special touches that’ll have your guests saying “that’s so you” long after your big day is over.

LIBRARY HOURS

PHONE

DIGITAL LIBRARY

M–F 9 am–9 pm | Sat 9 am–6 pm | Sun 12 pm–9 pm | 785 580-4400 | www.tscpl.org

IDo Magazine ad.indd 1

11/22/11 11:26 AM

61

See me rollin’...

Companies that offer either limousines, party buses or town cars

Cortez Transportation Company

www.corteztc.com zetroc513@yahoo.com 233.5466

by Ken Doll Photography

Preferred Limo Service

www.preferredlimoservice.com

RideInStyle@PreferredLimoService.com

887.9904

Leonia’s Crescent Limousine www.leonialimo.com irene@leonialimo.com 232.2236

Trent’s Limo World www.trentslimo.com 554.2827

Party Evolved www.partyevolved.com Reservations@partyevolved.com 408.2273

Unique Transportation Services uniquetopeka@gmail.com 783.8447

See Party Evolved’s ad on page 6

by Jennie Andrews Photography

by Ken Doll Photography

for all that sparkles...

m

by Ken Doll Photography

s

Anchor Gold Jewelry, Inc. 5415 SW 21st fairlawnplaza.com/anchorgold 228.3765

Kay Jewelers 1801 SW Wanamaker www.kay.com 273.0001

Akers Diamond Galleria 1570 SW Wanamaker, Ste 130 www.akersdiamondgalleria.com 232.4653

Robert’s Jewelers 3115 Southwest Huntoon 235.0795

Briman’s Leading Jewelers 734 South Kansas Ave 271.0760

Robuck Jeweler’s 845 N Kansas Ave www.robuckjewelers.com 235.5616

David’s Jewelers 623 S Kansas Ave

The Diamond House 1801 SW Gage Blvd.

234.4808

783.0667

www.davidsjewelerstopekaks.com

http://thediamondhousetopekaks.com

Diamonds By Design 2121 SW Wanamaker www.diamondsbydesigninc.com 271.5605

Tony’s Custom Jewelry & Repair 5660 SW 29th St. 272.6556

Helzberg Diamonds 1801 SW Wanamaker www.helzberg.com 273.0151

Zales 1801 SW Wanamaker Rd. www.zales.com 271.0100

by Colin MacMillan | Nathan Ham Photography

by Ken Doll Photography

63

Invitations . Save the Dates . Programs . More!

Schedule a FREE consultation to see more examples of your perfect wedding stationery!

Mr. and Mrs. Don Arnold and Mr. and Mrs. Steve Kooer request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their children

Lindsay and Jared on Saturday the third of September two thousand twelve At Shawnee Lake See directions page for addree

weddings parties lindsay@kooserdesign.com 785.213.4872 www.kooserdesign.com

.

showers meetings

recitals Catering

110 SE 8th Ave. | 783.8883 blueplanetcafeevents@gmail.com

A little extra zing AnnounceIt! www.myannounceit.com 249.6685 save the date, invitations

Frozen Drinks on the Go Susie73@cox.net 408.2961 frozen drinks

Barker Printing Company bpctheprinter.com theprinter@bpctheprinter.com 233.5533 printing

Passion Blondie - Jenny Torrence-Harris www.passionblondie.com 806.0604 passion parties consultant

Bartenders on the Go www.bartendersonthego.net bartendingonthego@yahoo.com 554.1741 bartending services

Personally Yours www.pygiftsandfavors.com 357.0090 personalized gifts/favors

Cookies by Gayla www.cookiesbygayla.com gaylakirk@yahoo.com 478.3148 cookies

PT’s Coffee Roasting Company www.ptscoffee.com/services/catering info@ptscoffee.com See 862.JAVA (5282) PT’s coffee/espresso bar ad on the previous page

Kooser Design www.kooserdesign.com lindsay@kooserdesign.com 213.4872 save the date, invitations, programs, thank you cards

See Kooser Design’s ad on page 64

Topeka Blueprint Company www.topekablue.com info@topekablue.com 785.232.7209 printing

65

Photographers

Bella Ray Photography Elizabeth Jackson Photography Shelly Jensen Photography

2become1 studio Ken Doll Photography Flash Forward Photography and Video

Captured Moments by Christina Ditmer Digital and Design Savonski Photography

TOP ROW L-R:

Nathan Ham Photography Portraits by Brandy

Middle ROW L-R:

Prairie Fire Images Jenni Harrison Photography Harrington Photography

Middle ROW L-R:

Red Barn Photography SLab Photography Mindy Armstrong Photography

Bottom ROW L-R:

Don Brent Photography Optimize Photography Erin Tomlinson Photography

67

2become1studio www.2become1studio.com 286.2272 | davestr@cox.net

P P

BellaRay Photography www.BellaRayPhotography.com 430.9124 | amber.johanson@yahoo.com

(distance restrictions & travel costs may apply)

travel for weddings

posts photos online for viewing

creates save the dates, invitations, thank you cards

wedding albums available

offers a photobooth

second shooter/assistant that attends

offers digital packages where you can own the print rights

Photographers

PPPP

Captured Moments by Christina www.capturedmomentsbychristina.com 213.4831 | capturedmomentsbychristina@cox.net

P PP PPPP P P PPPP

Coffman Designs Photography www.coffmandesigns.com 633.3948 | tina@coffmandesigns.com

P PP PPPP

Ditmer Digital and Design www.ditmerdigitalanddesign.com |215.6606 kristi@ditmerdigitalanddesign.com

See ad on page 42

Don Brent Photography & Imaging, Inc. www.donbrent.com 273.7399 | staff@donbrent.com

Not Packages currently, available but maybe with this in the future option

PP

PPPP

P P

PPPP

Elizabeth Jackson Photography www.elizabethjacksonphotos.com 224.0020 | elizabeth@elizabethjacksonphotos.com

P P

Erin Tomlinson Photography www.erintomlinsonphotography.com 580.7153 | erintomlinsonphotography@yahoo.com

P P

Not currently, but willing to do it

PPPP

Up to 300 miles

PPPP

There are many choices when it comes to photography and we hope this list helps narrow down your choices. Our list was compiled in December 2011 and features Topeka photographers who have a tax id and list weddings as a speciality. If we missed a business, please accept our apologies in advance and email your information to seveneightfiveIDo@gmail.com.

(distance restrictions & travel costs may apply)

travel for weddings

posts photos online for viewing

creates save the dates, invitations, thank you cards

wedding albums available

offers a photobooth

second shooter/assistant that attends

offers digital packages where you can own the print rights

Photographers Flash Forward Photography and Video www.flashforwardtopeka.com 845.1205 | kyle@flashforwardtopeka.com

P P

PPPP

Harrington Photography, LLC www.harringtonphotog.com 233.3827 | harringtonphoto@hotmail.com

P P

PPPP

Jenni Harrison Photography www.jenniharrison.com 817.4282 | mamajenni@me.com

P P

PPPP

P P

PPPP

P

PPPP

Ken Doll Photography www.kendollphotography.com 231.7191 | ken@kendollphotography.com

See ad on back cover

Mindy Armstrong Photography www.mindyarmstrong.com 554.1091 | mindy@mindyarmstrong.com Nathan Ham Photography www.whataham.com 232.3030 | colin@whataham.com

See ad on inside front cover

PPPP

Optimize Photography www.optimizephotography.com 844.2492 | optimizephotography@hotmail.com

P P

PPPP

Portraits by Brandy portraitsbybrandy.com 383.2592 | portraitsbybrandy@gmail.com

P P

PPPP

Portraits by Cheri www.cherisimages.com 235.0509 | cheri@cherisimages.com

Upon request

Upon request

Coming Soon

PPPP

Up to 200 miles

69

PowellWeddings www.powellweddings.com 817.1088 | info@powellweddings.com Prairie Fire Images www.prairiefireimages.com 249.9649 | prairiefireimages@cox.net

P P See ad on page 13

ProPhotos by Brian Photography prophotosbybrian.com 286.7215 | bwickett@prophotosbybrian.com

P

P

(distance restrictions & travel costs may apply)

travel for weddings

posts photos online for viewing

creates save the dates, invitations, thank you cards

wedding albums available

offers a photobooth

second shooter/assistant that attends

offers digital packages where you can own the print rights

Photographers

P P

P PP P P

P P

P

Red Barn Wedding Photography www.redbarnweddingphotography.com 230.8928 | redbarnweddingphotography@yahoo.com

P P

PP P P

Shelley Jensen Photography www.shelleyjensen.com 783.3320 | photos@shelleyjensen.com

P P

PP P P

P P P P

PP P P

Upon request

PP P P

P P

PP P P

SLabImaging slabimaging.com 234.4964 | shaun@slabimaging.com Sovanski Photography, Inc. www.sovanskiphoto.com 273.0390 | jsovanski@cox.net Wichers Photography www.wichers.com 271.5355 | mark@wichers.com

See Red Barn ad on page 76

P P

pla ces

We have presented some local options to help you plan your special day. We strive for accuracy, but please contact the business because things change.

If we missed a business, please contact us at seveneightfiveIDO@gmail.com - and we do sincerely apologize.

71

AN INSIDE LOOK AT SOME TOPEKA VENUES learn what these places have to offer, from the venues themselves Whatever your need, Parrish Hotels has you covered

W

hether you’re planning an intimate bridal brunch or an elegant reception for 600, it’s important to choose a location that will make your wedding event a memorable occasion.

Locally owned and operated, Parrish Hotels provide highly experienced wedding coordinators and exceptional service to make your wedding as magical as you had dreamed it would be. With three hotel venues, each Parrish hotel offers elegant banquet space to accommodate an event of any size.

The award-winning Ramada Hotel and Convention Center offers more banquet space, guest room accommodations, on-site restaurants, and lounges than any other hotel in the Topeka area. With its multiple rooms, brides can make this hotel a one-stop shop for both the wedding ceremony and the reception.

The Holiday Inn Holidome is a Topeka tradition, providing a relaxed atmosphere for the entire family. The Kansas Ballroom, which includes accommodations for up to 350 guests, will provide a high-class reception at an affordable price. With a three-story indoor water slide and large game room area, guests of all ages will enjoy themselves at this Parrish hotel property.

The Senate Suites is nestled among many of the city’s most beautiful and historic landmarks. From your suite’s balcony you can view the Capitol dome or the towers of Grace Cathedral and Topeka High School. This unique hotel is as intimate as a bed and breakfast, but as grand as a first class hotel. With remodeled Jacuzzi suites available for newlyweds, this hotel offers more flexible food and beverage rules for outside catering and a friendly-staff who pledge to exceed your expectations. You won’t be disappointed with your stay at the Senate Suites.

Our professional staff at Parrish Hotels will help you realize your vision for a perfect wedding, down to the very last detail. Contact Linda Shove-Morgan at 215.8257, or by email, linda@parrishhotels.com. {IDO}

A HAPPY ACCIDENT

T

here are times in life when accidents occur that are not always a bad thing. They may present you with an opportunity that creates a path that leads to something happy, and an expansion in your life. Sometimes you just have to grab those opportunities, seize them, and see where they take you.

As John Lennon once said, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans”. He was a brilliant man and if you asked Jenny Torrence-Harris or Chris Page from Chinell’s Floral, I can guarantee just one month ago their plans did not include an additional business or the adventure that brings.

Serendipity --Opening February 2012

While at a network meeting discussing the needs of the community for local businesses and vendors dealing with the wedding industry, Jenny and Chris realized that Topeka needed a little something different when it came to wedding and event spaces. Topeka has some absolutely gorgeous places that offer some variety, but one option that they both felt this town needed was an event space that would be “outside the box.” A space that was more modern and contemporary in design, that offered both a lounge feel, a bar, and enough open space that could cater to all events.

Jenny and Chris then began to brainstorm and realized that although they were completely different personalities, they both had the same idea of what Topeka was needing. So with a quick drive around town, quick polling of opinions, viewing of some properties their adventure began.

When you want the truly unique venue...

Serendipity

Jenny and Chris, with the help of Jenny’s sister Patti, and their spouses in tow, have created the ideal space for your next event. It has been a fun labor of love refurbishing every inch of a historic building in the North Topeka Arts District (NOTO: 820 N. Kansas Ave.) to create a memorable place for any event needed. We wanted a space that allowed for all requests one might have. From the ability to plug in an iPod, to an outdoor seating area, a full service bar, to bringing in your own food, to meeting space with wifi, to a multitude of photo opportunities... we created it. The ambiance is spectacular! Our 17 chandeliers, customized wedding packages, signature candle scent, exclusive centerpieces and posh decor will be sure to help create perfect memories for those special times.

Remember, sometimes “Serendipity” intercedes to make a normal experience unforgettable. Go to www.

SerendipityTopeka.com to watch their transformation and makeover for the 2012 wedding season. Serendipity plans to open February 2012. {IDO}

73

Capitol Plaza Hotel www.capitolplazahoteltopeka.com 431.7200 | topek@jqh.com

500 100 inside and in barn -------200-250 outside

Creekside at Berryton www.creeksideberryton.com 233.2817 | roxe@cox.net

200

Great Overland Station www.greatoverlandstation.com 232.5533 | gnichols@greatoverlandstation.com

outdoor option

indoor option

P PPP P P PP P PP Fee

FOP Lodge www.topekafop3.org Governor’s Row House www.govrow.com 554.5174 | ecoughlinturnbull@yahoo.com

requires use of on-site catering must buy alcohol from venue

P PPPP P P

chairs provided

80 inside -------hundreds outside

tables provided

linens provided

Brickyard Barn and Inn www.brickyardbarninn.com 235.0057 | umoo2me@cjnetworks.com

Venue capacity

Venues

Inside, Inside, not not barn barn

banquet Seven room acres & barn

PP

P PP

P PP

Front & back porch

Fee

Caterer Barmust tender have required license on file

PP

300

PP

Inside - 350, 330 with tables

PP

PP

Kansas Museum of History www.kshs.org 272.8681 x454 | facilities_rental@kshs.org

300

PP

PP

Ramada Convention Center www.topekaramada.com | 215.8296 info@topekaramada.com

700

Heritage Hall www.ksexpo.com 235.1986

Senate Luxury Suites www.senatesuites.com 233.5050 | kate@senatesuites.com Serendipity www.SerendipityTopeka.com SerendipityTopeka@gmail.com 409.8337

See Ramada’s ad on page 25

See Serendipity ad on page 79

220; 150 is ideal

250+

P PPP P P P PP

Bartender required

P PP

PPP

Ivory

Black

30 150 available available

PP

For ceremony

Sixth Avenue Ballroom 6thaveballroom.com 224.5401 | mehrhof@embarqmail.com

250; 150-200 is ideal

P PP White

PP

150 available

Sunrise Optimist Club www.sunriseoptimist.org 633.0669 | bldg-mgr@sunriseoptimist.org

300

The Vinewood www.thevinewood.com 267.3037 | tonicloud@thevinewood.com

300

The Woodward/Woodward Max www.thewoodward.com 354.7111 | elizabeth@thewoodward.com

Woodward: 250 inside; 500 inside/ outside -------Woodward Max: 85

Top of the Tower www.topoftopeka.com 354.7746

300-400 for reception; 250-275 seated

P PPP P P

300+

P PPP P P

320

P PPP P P

PP

PP

P PPPP P P Fee

Topeka Country Club www.topekacountryclub.org | 354.8561 (Non-members are required to have a member sponsor to make a reservation at Topeka Country Club.)

Topeka Holidome www.topekaholidome.com 272.8040 | sales@topekaholidome.com

outdoor option

indoor option

requires use of on-site catering must buy alcohol from venue

chairs provided

tables provided

linens provided

Venue capacity See 6th Ave. ad on page 35

See ad on page 25

Topeka Masonic Center www.topekamasoniccenter.com 783.7720

P P PP

on page 21

400

Bartender required if cash bar

PP

300

Topeka Performing Arts Center www.tpactix.org | 234.2787 x102 See badams@tpactix.org TPAC’s ad

PP

Inside Inside Inside

P PP Fee

photo by Ken Doll Photography

Caterer mustbe from approved list

P

PP

75

FIRST COMES LOVE THEN COMES MARRIAGE let warehouse 414 help you start your new life together hundreds of items for your new home

REGISTER WITH US TODAY! great local, personalized service

What a difference a day makes...

my dream my destina day tion a high style home furnishings store with an eclectic mix of new designs, antiques and vintage pieces...

with a new online storefront

www.warehouse414.com 414 south east second street | 785.232.8008 Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 11a - 5:30 p By chance or appointment

The perfect destination wedding or honeymoon: whether you dream of the sunset on a white sand beach, the sparkle of fresh snow on a mountaintop, the adventure of European cities, or the whisper of the wind as you sail on a luxurious cruise ship, the professionals at Jade Travel can make those dreams come true.

Call Today!

www.jadetravel.com 785-273-1226

Videographers Rental Services Photo Booths Flash Forward Photography & Video www.flashforwardtopeka.com kyle@flashforwardtopeka.com 913.481.5527 Studio 32 Productions,Inc. www.studio32productions.com andy@studio32productions.com 840.5320

Cavender Tent Rental www.topekatentrental.com 845.7514

Heartland Photo Booth www.heartlandphotobooth.com heartlandphotobooth@gmail.com 800.710.2584

Kansas Rental, Inc. http://kansas-rental.com 926 NW Topeka Blvd. | 233.2222 5966 SW 29th St. | 272.1232

iWink Photobooths www.iwinkphotobooths.com info@iwinkphotobooths.com 913.827.8698

Sunflower Rental, Inc. www.sunflowerrental.com 2010 SW Topeka Blvd.

233.9487

When you want the truly unique venue...

Serendipity

Say Cheez Photography www.saycheezphotobooth.com nikki@saycheezphotobooth.com 785.969.5033

Cigar Outlet Bachelor Parties Special Events • Groom’s Gifts Anniversary

e

785.409.8337 c 785.806.0604 820 N Kansas Ave Topeka, KS 66608 www.SerendipityTopeka.com SerendipityTopeka@gmail.com

Opening February 2012

Enhanc

nt

eve l a i c e p s your

Custom packages that fit your tastes 785.925.3967

77

NATURAL GLOW makeup tips to look your best

by Erin Leigh Wynkoop • photos by Ken Doll | Ken Doll Photography

T

he dress is tailored, the veil and hair have been perfected, and you’ve found your something borrowed and something blue. One thing remains to complete your wedding day look: your face.

Here is your step-by-step wedding day beauty guide to a beautiful face that you, your lucky groom, and all your family and friends will never forget.

Do your research Scour beauty and wedding magazines to find the look that suits you best. Are you going for a natural look? Do you want an evening look that is a little more sultry? Old Hollywood or retro pin-up? Be sure to pair your makeup look to the wedding you are having. Smokey, dark eyes at a daytime outdoor wedding at the lake might not be what you are looking for.

Be sure to think of what your everyday makeup routine is as well. As a makeup artist who has created the face for countless brides over the last eight years, I always like to remind my clients that on their wedding day, they want to look like a glorified version of themselves. Red lips and dark eyes will not suit a bride’s taste on her wedding day if she has been wearing

light brown eye shadows and clear lip gloss for the last 10 years. False lashes are great for a wedding day look, but be sure to go for a natural lash that give just a little length and fullness to the lash line. No bride wants to look like a Bratz Doll on her wedding day.

Decide to hire or do your own wedding makeup This is one more very important decision to add to your list, and this decision can make or break your wedding morning.

Do you want to do your own makeup the day of or hire a professional to beautify you the day of the wedding? Make a pro and con list. Some brides hire a makeup artist to take away the added stress that wedding day makeup can cause, or to pamper herself and her attendants. Other brides rely on a makeup savvy girlfriend to help and some are confident and composed enough to do their own wedding day makeup.

Whatever way you decide to go, there are three essentials to remember: Practice, practice and practice again. If you hire a professional makeup artist it is not uncommon to do a runthrough (or two) a couple weeks before the wedding day. If a friend has offered to lend her creative hand, be sure she has

a strong understanding of what you want for your wedding day. If you decide to do your own makeup, be sure to pack everything you need to recreate the perfected wedding day look in a separate bag so there is no stress to add to your morning. Two very important things to remember the morning of the wedding: wear a button down shirt and hair first, then makeup!

Prep Two to three weeks before the wedding start the prep work for a fabulous wedding day face. First and foremost, get your beauty rest! A full night’s sleep is vital to beautiful wedding day skin. Drinking plenty of water and taking a daily multi-vitamin is super important and all three of those key steps can be easily forgotten during those final weeks before the big day approaches. Have your brows shaped and groomed and get a facial at least two weeks before the wedding day. This time allows skin to heal from any extractions an esthetician has to perform on your skin or for skin to rejuvenate after a chemical or glycolic peel. You will want to try any new products now to be sure you will not have an allergic reaction.

The day before the big wedding day is going to be hectic!

Finishing touches, decorating, entertaining guests at the rehearsal dinner are all factors that will contribute to stress on your skin. Be sure to drink plenty of water, moisturize your skin and eat a healthy diet the entire week before the wedding. Whole grains, omega-3s and berries are proven to make skin look vibrant, exactly they way a bride wants to look on her wedding day!

It’s bright and early the day of the wedding and you are wide awake. Get up, drink some water and stretch a little. While getting ready, gently wash your face with a mild cleanser, and use a light moisturizer. Then drink more water and relax. It’s going to be a beautiful day! {IDO}

by Colin MacMillan | Nathan Ham Photography (photo of Erin Wynkoop)

Posh Artistry by Greshiene and Jami poshartistry@hotmail.com 217.6946

Erin Leigh Wynkoop erinleigh1222@gmail.com 806.7721

Romie Garcia romie702003@yahoo.com 608.9706

Dana Ziegler DMZ9662@yahoo.com 383.1553

Jodine’s Makeup, Hair & Nails Studio jodinemua@gmail.com 845.6372 Jordan Kietzman macfanatic864@yahoo.com 383.9693 Amber O’Dell AO Productions www.amberodell.com 217.4111

Here is a list of local makeup artists who advertiser their services and have years of experience in the field.

If we missed your business, please send your information to seveneightfiveIDO@gmail.com.

makeup artists

79

W

hew, you’ve made it through the first issue.

Now you’re just waiting for number two, right? The staff at seveneightfive {I Do} is going to take a little time to catch their breath, but keep your eyes open in January 2013 for our second edition.

In the meantime, keep us with us on Twitter @785IDO and on Facebook, www.facebook.com/ seveneightfiveido.

If you’re interested in joining in the fun next year, shoot us an email at seveneightfiveido@gmail.

Until then, keeping enjoying all the amazing Topeka weddings!

It’s your big day,

don’t settle for anything less than the best!

• Highest in creativity & quality • Free consultations • Any budget

“Guaranteed Beautiful”

Call Patrick Today!

785.354.1707

3101 SW Huntoon Topeka, KS 66604 | www.porterfieldsflowers.com | 785.354.1707