Smitten Magazine / Volume 4 by Smitten Magazine

Ceci

NEW YORK MEET CECI JOHNSON

the ultimate tool for gathering & organizing all your wedding inspirations... create styleboards for you and your wedding vendors. keep track of your budget & wedding contacts all in one place...

the wedding row

app

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

WELCOME

TO OUR FIRST 2012

ISSUE!

IN THIS ISSUE/

january + february

IDEAS FABULOUS FINDS UNDER $50

SIGNATURE DRINK

105

SPRING MAIDS

136

A GIFT GUIDE

BRIDESMAID ENSEMBLES IN YUMMY 2012 SPRING HUES

EDITOR PICKS

PATTERN OUR EDITOR, DELLA MACNICHOLAS SHOWS US A PATTERN PERFECT SELECTION OF FINE CHINA AND SILVER

WAT E R F O R D W I L L O W | R O B E R T H AV I L A N D / C . PA R L O N S Y R A C U S E | A R T E I TA L I C A - V E T R O G O L D

P H I L I P P E D E S H O U L I E R E S E X O T I C A | V E R A WA N G W E D G W O O D G L I S S E JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

| A R T E I TA L I C A - V E T R O G O L D

DELLA´S OWN

PATTERN!

P H I L I P P E - D E S H O U L I E R E S A RC A D E S | M I C H A E L A R A M J A I P U R P E A C O C K B L U E | W E D G E W O O D A N T H E M I O N B L U E W E D G W O O D R E N A I S S A N C E G O L D | G O R H A M S T R A S B O U R G | G O R H A M B U T T E RC U P | G O R H A M C H A N T I L LY SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

FOR YO U R I N S P I R AT I O N

SUNNY

SKIES AHEAD P H OTO G R A P H Y

L I S A L E F KO W I T Z EVENT & FLORAL DESIGN / STYLING

ARIELLA CHEZAR

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

GET THIS LOOK!

INSIDE SMITTEN

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

T H A N K YO U TO THE FOLLOWING VENDORS

STATIONERY JANEL CLAIRE DESIGN

EVENT & FLORAL DESIGN ARIELLA CHEZAR

DRESSES & ACCESSORIES BHLDN BELLA BRIDESMAID HEY LADY SHOES SIMONE CHEZAR

HAIR & MAKEUP STYLISTS TAYLOR PHAM MIMI RICKETT COURTNEY CHAU WARDROBE STYLIST CINDY CHANG CALLIGRAPHY MAYBELLE IMASA-STUKULS CAKE ARIELLA CHEZAR

SKIES AHEAD

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

PHOTOGRAPHY LISA LEFKOWITZ

PRODUCER KRISTI AMOROSO

SUNNY

INSIDE

MODELS STARS MODEL MANAGEMENT: BRANDILYN TEBO HANNAH SMITH LOCATION MINT LOCATIONS VIDEO ANDREW HSU OF STUDIO MSV

ADVERTISE I N OUR

MARCH ISSUE!

YOU'LL BE SMITTEN WITH T H E R E S U LT S ! . . . DIRECT LINKS TO YOUR WEBSITE & SOCIAL ACCOUNTS O V E R 1 M I L L I O N PA G E V I E W S YOUR AD BECOMES V I E WA B L E F O R M O N T H S E V E N YEARS TO COME B E N E F I T S FA R O U T W E I G H PRINT ADVERTISING

ADVERTISE@SMITTEN-MAG.COM SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

GOOD to KNOW

SEATING

etiquette

MADE EASY

TO ESCORT OR TO PLACE? The seating arrangement of a sit-down dinner or reception is one of the more entertaining and detail oriented tasks you will encounter when planning a formal or traditional wedding reception. Will you need escort cards only or escort cards and place cards? Understanding the difference between each card's function will not only ease some of the organizational work required, it will also let you decide on the mood you wish to set at your wedding reception.

5 30

JAN / FEB

LEIGH WEBBER PHOTOGRAPHY SMITTEN

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

s you compile your guest list into table arrangements you will have to decide whether each couple or single will be seated at a specific table only or at a specific table and assigned seat. In my experience, there are pros and cons to each decision. You should weigh both options as you decide which logistical arrangement will work best for your wedding and guests. If you opt to assign tables only, you will have to select which guests will sit at the same table and then let them choose which seat will be theirs, which is less organizational work for you but may result in a case of "musical chairs" as your guests vie for their preferred seat. In the case where you are having a more intimate celebration and your guests will have bonded at the rehearsal dinner or in the case of large families having their own tables, you may not need to assign seats.

suite are the punctuation to your invitations and elements that allow for last minute decorative details to shine through at your reception, which your guests are very likely to keep and take home to remember your distinctive wedding. Escort cards are designed to "escort" your guests to their tables. Escort cards are placed or displayed near the entrance of the reception site and are picked up by your guests as they head to dinner. Also called butler cards, escort cards include a couple's name or a single guest's name and then the number or name of their table. Place cards help your guests find their specific seat within their table assignment. After having picked up their escort card and finding their table, your guests

If you select to assign tables and seats, you will decide at which table each guest will sit and then at which seat and besides whom they best will enjoy the evening. Assigned seating will require a little extra logistical organization on your part, but it will not only provide for an opportunity to get to know and match the interests and personalities of your guests, it will also provide a smoother transition from the cocktail hour to the dinner service as your guests seamlessly find their tables and seats. In addition place cards enhance the elegance of your table decor with the timeless calligraphy of each guest's name. Each wedding follows certain family moire and logistical particulars, so I suggest you consider not only the size of your guest list, but also the tone of your wedding and your preferred entertaining style. After you determine how you would like your wedding reception to take place, you will select custom escort cards to be hand addressed by a professional calligrapher and, in the case of assigned seats, place cards as well.These two critical parts of your wedding stationery

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

will look for their place card to find their seat. A place card may be formal or informal pending the tone of your dinner. The advantage of doing place cards is that your guests will quickly find their seat, place a pashmina or cocktail, and then return to mingling with other guests before dinner is served.

In both the case of escort cards and place cards, I would recommend selecting a paper stock or material that is in keeping with the rest of your stationery suite and the decor of your wedding and then have a calligrapher hand address each escort card and place card in your preferred ink color. While calligraphy may seem like an additional expense at first, it is not. In many ways, calligraphy is a welcomed solution to wedding week guest list changes. Calligraphy of multi-variable data is applied by hand to a multitude of materials, such as wood, leather, and various paper stocks textures, which otherwise could not be printed. Calligraphy also affords you the flexibility of making any last minute adjustments to your guest list and seating arrangement as unexpected guests are added or tables switched. Table and seating assignment is part etiquette, part Tetris. You will enjoy and ponder each selection as you design the mood and tone of your wedding reception. Having designed, produced, and delivered hundreds of wedding stationery suites with wonderful brides and their families, I have learned that if you take the time to plan your seating arrangement correctly and also give yourself enough time to learn from the experience to plan your celebration, you and your guests will enjoy the relaxed and gracious atmosphere of a thoughtful and intentional celebration.

EMILIE DULLES / DULLES DESIGNS

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

Elizabeth Ann

Peter

CHAMBER'S L ANDING

L A K E TA H O E , C A L I F O R N I A

photographed by INGRID NELSON

Location, location, location. To this couple, it meant everything. “We wanted an intimate, romantic wedding that showcased the beauty of Lake Tahoe, where we spent our first weekend away together,” explains Elizabeth Ann. Their California-proud celebration unfolded lakefront at historic Chamber’s Landing, the alpine landscape softened by blushing peonies and sheer lanterns. Classic Tahoe cocktails flowed as the sky dipped, luminaries keeping the dock aglow. “We were both so happy, surrounded by our closest family and friends in a truly special place.” CAIT BARNETT

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

PHOTOGRAPHER

INGRID NELSON

EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN

SUMMIT SOIREE

FLORALS STEMS BY DIANA

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

F AV O R I T E M O M E N T

...

Our ceremony was very personal. Each one of our sisters read a special passage, and we said traditional vows along with some personal words to each other. The mood was lightened when my husband pulled out his iphone to read his vows. We were both happy to feel that everything was so intimate, surrounded by our closest family and friends in a truly special place.

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

INSIDE SMITTEN

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

Griselda &Chris

OCEANO HOTEL

H A L F M O O N B AY, C A

photographed by KEVIN CHIN PHOTOGRAPHY

For the bride, it was a wish granted. “I’ve always wanted to get married at the Stanford Memorial Church, since I was a little girl,” Griselda says. “Having my ceremony there was a dream come true.” For the guests, it was a 1920s trip around the world. The black and white scheme, lace-trimmed veil and checkered dance floor all sang vintage chic—a page torn from Fitzgerald, and just as cosmopolitan. Tapas, sangria and Mariachi scores celebrated the bride’s Mexican heritage, while a traditional Italian dinner honored the groom’s European roots. Now that’s one roaring good time. CAIT BARNETT

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

PHOTOGRAPHER

KEVEN CHIN PHOTOGRAPHY

THERESE JACINTO DESIGN

VENUE

EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN

OCEANO HOTEL

CEREMONY MUSIC

A BRIDE'S BEST FRIEND RODNEY GEHRKE

FLORALS

COCKTAIL MUSIC

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

F AV O R I T E M O M E N T

...

I've always wanted to get married at the Stanford Memorial Church since I was a little girl. Having my ceremony there was a dream come true. During our vows our bridesmaids and groomsmen circled around us at the alter and they were witness to our wedding vows in a close up.

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

INSIDE SMITTEN

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

FABULOUS

FINDS

FOR UNDER GIFT IDEAS FOR BRIDESMAIDS / MOTHERS / FRIENDS

W HO WOULD'NT LOVE ONE OF T H E S E FABULOUS FINDS! GIFT SELECTION COURTESY OF

ELIZABETH STUART DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY LEIGH WEBBER PHOTOGRAPHY

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

IDEAS SMALL GOLD ATHENA TRAY $39 | BEIL 2.5 INCH SILVER HEART $25 | RECTANGLE EARRINGS $40 GOLDEN BERRY CHAMPAGNE FLUTES $19 EACH | 8.25 INCH GLASS CLOCHE WITH BIRD $22.50 SHAGREEN GREY FROG $24 | SILVER VASE $18 SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

LARGE UMBRE CARAFE $39 | GOLD ETCHED GLASS BOX $28.50 | EMBOSSED DECO 4 X6 FRAME $31

WHITE BONE SALT AND PEPPER SET $26 | CHAIR PLACE CARD HOLDERS, SET OF FOUR $29

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

HAND MADE AVIARY JARS $44 - $74 | CLUTCHES $30 MIRRORED TRAY $45

| DIFFUSER $26 SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SEE STYLE WITH COUNTLESS COUTURE INVITES (AND AWARDS) UNDER HER BELT, CECI JOHNSON’S TAKING THE BRIDAL WORLD — AND BEYOND — BY STORM. CLAIRE E. KEYS 64

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

DRAWINGS AWASH IN WATERCOLOR, GOLD LEAFING, EMBOSSED WORDS YOU CAN’T HELP BUT TOUCH — THESE ARE THE DETAILS THAT DREAM INVITES ARE MADE OF. AND FOR CECI JOHNSON, THE AMBASSADOR OF BESPOKE STYLING, THAT’S JUST THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG. SINCE 2004, SHE’S BEEN REVOLUTIONIZING EVERYTHING FROM SAVETHE-DATES TO PRIVATE EVENTS WITH HER COVETED WHIMSY AND SOPHISTICATION. WE SAT DOWN TO TALK INVITES, ETIQUETTE AND DETAILS FROM HER OWN WEDDING (HELLO, OSCAR DE LA RENTA).

CK: Ceci, you’re the go-to guide for living an

inspired, ultra-stylish life.

CJ: Thanks! I’m just a girl who loves beautiful things. I’ve gone through life creating the things I wanted since I could never find what I envisioned in my head. Whether it was designing my prom dress or my wedding invitations, I’ve never bought off the shelf. CK: You live in New York City. Does that influ-

ence your daily process?

CJ: The energy, the people, the art, the culture — I could go on and on. This city never ceases to amaze me. Just walking down the street, my senses are always awakened by inspiring elements, whether it’s architecture or an incredible storefront display. CK: Why weddings? CJ: It's the most rewarding and personal service you can provide. Someone’s wedding is such an intimate, important day. I love giving couples the opportunity to work with a true artist and a real graphic designer, not just picking from a limited selection that everyone else can access. It's all about personalization, style and confidence.

CK: Talk a bit about your process with a couple. CJ: It begins with a creative consultation, in which we discuss anything and everything — likes, dislikes, music, fashion, home décor — so I can get to know the couple better. From there, my team delves into countless hours of designing, drawing, painting and creating. CK: Sounds easy and fun! CJ: I believe you have enough to worry about — let the experts you’ve hired do all of the work! CK: It seems your signature is defining a strong creative theme for every wedding. What’s your secret? CJ: I recommend making a list of what excites you — and don't be shy. Write down anything that comes to mind. Maybe it’s your venue or a place you’ve traveled together. Anything can give way to a beautiful theme. From there, start applying it to the details. For my own wedding, I love Spanish culture and my husband loves history, so we went with an Old World Spanish slant; an intimate feast of family and friends. I chose exotic jewel tones, candelabras, authentic food and music. It was a dream.

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

INSIDE SMITTEN CECI, DELIVERED Get a free dose of Ceci’s inspiration every week. Discover her style letter, CeciStyle, and sign up today. HERE! CK: Let’s talk etiquette — How early should

invites go out the door? Save-the-dates?

CJ: I say order your invites 6 to 12 months before your wedding date. Remember, everything is being custom made for you and that takes time. Not to mention, you need to allocate time for things like printing, calligraphy and mailing. It all adds up. I recommend that save-the-dates are mailed 6 to 8 months ahead. For invites, 6 to 8 weeks. Start early so you don't have to worry. Better to be ahead than stressed. CK: You’ve expanded upon your wedding work

and managed to cultivate a complete lifestyle brand. CJ: After you get married, the natural next step is often to start a family. Plus, since I just did that myself, I have the baby bug. I’m currently working on designing an entire product offering for the world of Ceci Baby! Very exciting.

OH, BABY From announcements to crib sheets, Ceci designed a complete collection for her bundle of joy. SEE IT HERE!

CK: What are your 3 musts for a dream wed-

ding?

CJ: 1. An amazing gown — I'm still giddy about my Oscar de la Renta dress 2. Your closest friends and family 3. A couture designed invitation suite (of course!)

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

LAUREN GEOFF

CORNERSTONE GARDENS

SONOMA, CALIFORNIA

photographed by ELLE JAE PHOTOGRAPHY

Down a long country road, deep within the rolling hills of Sonoma — where Lauren spent much of her childhood — the bride and groom met at their favorite running spot to enjoy a sweet moment alone, just before their ceremony. “It was a perfect hideaway,” Lauren recalls. Later, on the grounds of the sprawling Cornerstone Gardens, the two made it official in what was a true family affair. “Geoff’s sister played violin. Both of our mothers brought Pinot Noir from our home states for a wine ritual,” she explains. “Geoff wore a necklace and bracelet passed down from his father and grandfather, and I wore my grandmother’s sapphire ring.” Even the décor, down to the tufts of green moss, nodded to the couple’s families and hometowns — “it was handpicked from my Mom’s backyard in Oregon.” Proof that no detail is ever too small. CLAIRE E. KEYS

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

PHOTOGRAPHER

ELLE JAE PHOTOGRAPHY

EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN

DANDELION EVENTS

FLORALS

ANNE

| MAKEUP ARTIST TERESA BASHAM | HAIRSTYLIST CHEVEUX SALON | RENTALS CLASSIC PARTY

RENTAL | INVITATIONS AND PAPERS A DAY IN MAY DESIGNS | INVITATION ART BRADLEY BASHAM, BRIDE'S BROTHER 70

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

F AV O R I T E M O M E N T

...

Our first look was particularly special. We met each other at our favorite nook in Sonoma, up a winding country road tucked behind the hills. We met among the vines and enjoyed laughing, dancing, and walking together. It was a moment for us to take a breath and enjoy each other in private before the official festivities began.

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

BETH

CARL

WILIAM AIKEN HOUSE

CHARLESTON, SC

photographed by E VA N L A E T T N E R

Beth and Carl exchanged vows under the customary Chuppah, but this wasn’t just any canopy. The groom built it with his father, who’d harvested the wood himself, and on the big day, loved ones assembled it. Like the rest of the wedding, it was a truly kindred effort. The couple consulted family every step of the way, and to great success. Against a baroque backdrop, a warm autumnal palette invited guests to linger a little longer. Because when you’re here, you’re family. CAIT BARNETT

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

P H OTO G R A P H Y 96

T H E C O N N E L LY S JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

GOOD to KNOW SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

B N C IT COULD BE SAID THAT FATE IS THE ARCHITECT HEART…

MATTERS

SURELY

OTHER

THE

MATCHES

MADE IN HEAVEN COULD ARGUE THE SAME. THE UNION OF HEATHER BARRIE AND KRISTIN NEWMAN IS NOTHING SHORT OF ELEGANCE INCARNATE, WHERE ART, STYLE AND VISION RESIDE TOGETHER IN ONE OH SO GLORIOUS BUILDING… KRISTIN AND HEATHER HAVE BEEN CREATING

FABULOUS

TOGETHER

FOR

YEARS.

WEDDINGS AFTER

MARATHON PHONE PLANNING SESSION RESULTED IN TWO VERY SORE NECKS,

THE

DESIGNER

AND

THE

PLANNER FELT THAT CREATING THE PARTNERSHIP OF BARRIE NEWMAN COLLECTIVE WAS AN EASY DECISION. FORMED BY TWO PEOPLE THAT USED TO BE COMPETITORS, BNC IS NOW TRULY LARGER THAN THE SUM OF ITS PARTS.

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

directed to assist her as well - I was truly beside myself and decided to go for it! Over the years, I have gone from my dining room table to a tiny 3rd floor office in the heart of King Street to a historic, sunny, second floor space on Rutledge Avenue and now to our very own BARRIE NEWMAN BLDG on Meeting Street. In this time, I have been a part of numerous weddings as a result of that very first one. One thing I am most proud of is running an almost entirely word of mouth business, resulting in amazing, personal client relationships.

HEATHER: I came to Charleston to attend CofC and began the marine biology program. I realized that this was not for me and finished school with varying majors and minors in business, communication and art. While in college, I also worked parttime in the food/beverage or hospital-

How did each of you get started in the wedding industry?

ity sectors. While working at a bed and breakfast, I made floral arrangements for all over the house and breakfast trays us-

KRISTIN:

ing flowers and greenery from the gar-

I got started in the wedding industry by chance and coin-

den. Granville’s, one of the restaurants

cidence. My now husband lived in Charleston, and upon

that I worked in, also had a catering di-

my moving here to be with him, I took a job as Concierge

vision, and I very happily stepped into

at Charleston Place. While working on the Club Floor, I had

taking care of the floral displays which

one on one contact with repeat, VIP guests, one of whom

became more of an additional offering.

was also in the process of planning her wedding. We hit it

One day, we were meeting with a bride

off and quickly became friends. Soon, she asked me to help

regarding the reception flowers for her

her with all sorts of details from her hotel blocks to the floor

Atlanta wedding, and she asked if I would

plan to ceremony music to favors and welcome bags. Then

do the ceremony and bouquets too. I had

she asked me to direct her wedding! I love a good challenge,

never created those before but was will-

so I agreed. It went beautifully and I found going through the

ing to give it a try. She was thrilled and so

process with her to be such an honor. I then assisted a lo-

I began creating a portfolio, working out

cal bridal store in its opening and simultaneously was asked

of my house and doing part time work on

by one of the bridesmaids from THE ONLY wedding I had

the side until I no longer needed to be-

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

cause I was so busy! I started out designing

how I wound up being a planner as well as a

You each operate independent, highly successful businesses, what led to the decision to create the Barrie Newman Collective?

designer.

About 7 or 8 years after that initial event, we found

the flowers, but was also knowledgeable about catering, rentals and many other vendors that I found I was quite equipped to give advice! I realized that people charge for that and that is

ourselves in a very long-term successful working

How did Barrie/Newman first meet?

100

relationship. Frequently, the planning and design offerings of Gathering will completely fit a client's needs and services from KND aren't involved. Oth-

We first met through an invitation to plan the

er times, KND will work with a client who has ties

launch party of Charleston Weddings Maga-

to a florist and Gathering will provide lighting and

zine. It was a strange first encounter; we were

furnishings. It always varies and we always work

individual event planners, and technically

with a plan that suits our clients' needs. One day,

competitors. We had a second meeting in-

after hours of telephone conversation working on

dependent of the magazine and began slowly

upcoming events, we found ourselves with terrible

(but very surely) hitting it off. The launch was

cricks in our necks from talking and typing at the

a huge success for us, the magazine and The

same time. Conclusion - we needed to move in to-

Historic Rice Mill. This event was also the de-

gether! We could partner our resources and financ-

but of the venue and the pictures from our

es and OWN a building with a warehouse on-site

party, the first event at ever at The Rice Mill, are

(rather than the 3 we had scattered across town). It

still being used in their current press materials

was a long process, but we finally landed, closed on

today!

and completely renovated the perfect building!

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

How has having the Barrie Newman space changed the direction of your businesses?

What kind of statement does the interior design of your space make about your style?

Having the BN building has strengthened our busi-

Besides the fact that we like green, grey and tan A

nesses. Though we function independently, we

LOT, our space conveys the design aesthetic we

work as a team of 4. We all know that any one of us

both enjoy - an environment of neutral colors in-

is always there to help on either side of the fence.

termingled with polished & classic pieces, hand-

It has made work more fun and being happy al-

craftsmanship, natural and rustic surfaces and arti-

ways results in greater productivity and creativity.

san elements. Our space embodies our ability to be

We have awesome client lunches in the floral pro-

resourceful: the amazing arch doors cost us $500

duction area and really maximize the enjoyment

off a home renovation jobsite, the bathroom vanity

of our space on a daily basis. Thanks to Gathering,

and sconces were free, pure salvage, we splurged

KND gets to enjoy fresh flowers about the space al-

on lighting, but saved again by pulling up the old

most all of the time. Admittedly, we often have too

tile floor and staining the concrete beneath. To add

much fun chatting and have developed internal

warmth and balance to the concrete space, the first

'do not disturb' signals (i.e., a closed door) to signal

floor ceiling was removed to reveal the old second

when serious business is underway! We all respect

floor joists. Wall covering was taken away to expose

and help one another â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it really is great!

brick and shiny new duct work was put in to accentuate the love of the industrial look we both share. The building, circa 1950, is solid as a rock, with a steel, barrel-vaulted ceiling and brick structure. We feel the changes we have made are consistent with

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

101

the mood of its era and its decor creates a calm, neutral setting for brides to be able to dream and imagine their own color palette and design ideas. We aim for our work to be branded by the individuality of the client rather than a signature Barrie Newman "look".

When you are collaborating on a wedding, which one of you is the “point person” and why? When working on a wedding, we all act as pointperson. There is a distinct and natural division of labor among all of us. Even vendors intuitively know who to ask what.

What do you do when clients want to bring in other vendors or consultants? We take it case by case. As long as it is a good experience and fit for all, we are always game. If it isn't a good fit, it’s easy to tell and the problem is solved. We make certain to enter into experiences

MARY RUTH TRIBBLE & HEATHER BARRIE of { GATHERING FLORAL + EVENT DESIGN }

that are only positive for all involved. We have had many circumstances where an on-site coordinator or florist is associated with the venue and we have always worked successfully and in tandem with these vendors.

What separates Barrie Newman from your competition?

signer & artist mecca, everyone in our field is extremely different, thereby allowing each bride and groom to find their best fit in an event planner and designer.

By way of our own individuality and personal

about our colleagues as competition - we are all so

Are there any trends that you think are here to stay? Or that should be done?

different. When meeting with a bride and groom,

Our favorite trend isn't a trend at all, just fit-

we can almost always tell if they feel like a Barrie

ting of a wedding. ..SERVE CHAMPAGNE! Or

Newman fit - or if they don't. That is the beauty

Prosecco, Cava, sparkling wine, what have

of Charleston - as the number two wedding des-

you – just bring on the bubbles! Drop in a

tination in the country, there is plenty of great

beautiful piece of fruit like pomegranate or

business to go around! We live and work in a de-

an aperitif like Aperol and you have a spe-

approach to event planning, we are very different than others in our field. We don't really think

102

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

and relearn in both our in-house operations and working in the field â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that open, honest, and thorough communication is the most essential aspect of any good relationship. This is true in friendship, marriage and business partnerships - all 3 of which we have by way of our new building. The friendship our relationship was founded on always prevails - a solid truth discovered in this past year.

What is your best advice to potential clients? Our best advice to a potential client is to make sure you feel a connection with your event planner. It is a long and close working relationship that has the potential to be extremely rewarding for both the client and the planner. A good match is the key!

KRISTIN NEWMAN & REAGAN KERR of { KRISTIN NEWMAN DESIGNS }

What do you think is the singularly most important attribute of your business? Hands down, our ability to talk with clients and assign projects that help pull out their personal sense of style. We listen, we probe, we suggest and we ultimately conceptualize a look that is

cialty cocktail! Our favorite is always to keep

totally unique and customized to each bride and

it simple and just serve the delicious bubbles

groom. Our proudest moment was with a bride

as they are. Have a champagne-tasting ap-

who could find no pictures that she felt worthy

pointment and invite both of your families.

of putting into her style-file. So she gave us a

Make getting to know the in-laws FUN!

single post card from their travels that captured the essence of her vision for the wedding. We

What is the biggest lesson youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve learned over the past year of being roommates? Best lesson over the last year - KND will al-

nailed it! She was blown away and we are now planning her sister's wedding, which is the ultimate compliment! REBECCAH CONNELLY

ways miss their turn to take the trash out if it isn't written on the calendar! Honestly though, the best lesson has been one that we have known and all continue to learn

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

103

104

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

IDEAS

SIGNATURE DRINK

BASIL TITO 2 oz.

Tito's Handmade Vodka 1 1/2 oz. Fresh Local Strawberry Puree 3 Basil Leaves Dash Fresh Cracked Pepper TOOLS: Large Cocktail Shaker Small Cocktail Shaker Top Muddler Cocktail Strainer Pepper Mill

PROCESS: Grab a large cocktail shaker. Fill with basil, cracked pepper and strawberry puree. Muddle ingredients to infuse flavors. Add Tito's Handmade Vodka. Fill with ice. Shake to perfection. Strain into chilled martini glass. Garnish with sliced strawberry or basil.

Recipe provided by

SQUEEZE ONSITE WWW.SQUEEZE-ONSITE.COM

LEIGH WEBBER PHOTOGRAPHY

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

105

FOR YO U R I N S P I R AT I O N

P H OTO G R A P H Y

RICHARD ISRAEL STYLING

S T A C E Y E VA N S ALICIA LALONE J O N A T H A N D AV I S

106

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

107

108

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

109

110

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

111

112

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

113

INSIDE SMITTEN

114

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

T H A N K YO U TO THE FOLLOWING VENDORS

PHOTOGRAPHY RICHARD ISRAEL PHOTOGRAPHY STYLING STACEY EVANS ALICIA LALONE JONATHAN DAVIS LOCATION HISTORIC ROSEDALE LINENS CLOTH CONNECTION RENTALS CLASSIC PARTY RENTALS A.F.R. CAKE CRUMBS COUTURE STATIONARY SALUTATIONS PRINTING SMOCK PLACECARDS CECI NEW YORK CHINA & STEMWARE VERA WANG FLOWERS PLACE FOR FLOWERS LAZARO GOWNS J. MAJORS BRIDAL JEWELRY NINA & ENCHANTED ATELIER from J. MAJORS BRIDAL SHOES BADGLEY MISHKA & NINA from J. MAJORS BRIDAL MODEL LINDSEY WORSHAM

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

115

116

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

Jane

&Frank T H E R I T Z - C A R LT O N

L A G U N A N I G U E L ,C A

photographed by CHRISTINA FARAH PHOTOGRAPHY

Against an endless shoreline in Laguna Niguel, Jane and Frank were the picture of serenity as they exchanged their promises. The bride’s bouquet debuted the affair’s simple scheme — barely-blush roses and white orchids speckled with pink, wrapped in a dramatic steel gray ribbon. Gathered on the Ritz-Carlton's lawn, surrounded by orchids in towering flute vases, guests stayed cool and shaded with ivory parasols until the sun finally set. Then, ready to dance, the party moved indoors, where tea lights and late evening light colored the reception space a romantic shade of amber. Ah, California. CLAIRE E. KEYS

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

117

PRODUCTIONS | INVITATIONS PAPER-GIRL

118

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

CEREMONY MUSIC

STRINGS BY REIKO |

RECEPTION MUSIC

PROKREATION

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

119

120

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

121

122

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

123

124

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

125

126

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

Lauren

Dmitriy & BUENA VISTA C ARNEROS WINERY

SONOMA, CALIFORNIA

photographed by MEG SEXTON

For Lauren, her engagement to Dmitriy was pure bliss. But just two months after her best friend proposed, she was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 26. Between five extensive surgeries, the couple spent their days together in the hospital, putting pen to paper and planning their dream wedding. Inspired by rustic romance and a new lease on life, they chose a symbolic color palette — “white for new beginnings and clean starts, gray for vintage style and greens for love of the earth and new blossoming,” she explains. “Our wedding was not just to celebrate the two of us, but to bring together our loved ones after everything we’d been through.” We can’t think of a better reason to rejoice. CLAIRE E. KEYS

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

127

PHOTOGRAPHER MEG SEXTON PHOTOGRAPHY | EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN LULU EVENTS | FLORALS BLUMENGARTEN VENUE

BUENA VISTA CARNEROS WINERY |

MUSIC

DJQUANTUM

| GOWN

CAKES & SWEETS

MONIQUE LHUILLIER

SUGARCASTLES

BRIDESMAID ATTIRE

CATERER

JENNY YOO

THE GIRL AND THE FIG MAKEUP ARTIST

BARA

HAIRSTYLIST BARA | RENTALS WINE COUNTRY PARTY RENTALS, CLASSIC PARTY RENTALS | PHOTO BOOTH PURPLE MONKEY | TRANSPORTATION APEX TRANSPORTATION

128

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

129

130

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

131

132

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

133

134

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

135

136

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

Spring MAIDS OUR TOP 4 2012 SPRING COLORS FROM THE PANTONE FASHION REPORT

STYLED BY

ALEXANDRA MUNZEL SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

137

DRESS ROKSANDA ILINCIC CONDOR RUFFLED SILK-ORGANZA GOWN

SHOE ZIGI SOHO GALA SANDAL

BRACELET HOUSE OF HARLOW 1960 ANTLER CUFF BRACELET

FUR ADRIENNE LANDAU SILVER FOX FUR STOLE

138

JAN / FEB

TA N G E R I N E SMITTEN

DRESS NOTTE BY MARCESA ONE-SHOULDER SILK-CHIFFON GOWN

SHOES KATE SPADE KAROLINA

EARRINGS ALEX MONROE CHRYSANTHEMUM EARRINGS

BRACELET AMETHYST AND LEMON QUARTZ CUFF

BELLFLOWER SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

139

DRESS DOLLY PEARL HAT SWING STEP HAT

EARRINGS GIVENCHY CLEAR AND BROWN CRYSTAL CHANDELIER

SHOES KATE SPADE GET PUMP PLATINUM CROC

140

JAN / FEB

SWEET LILAC SMITTEN

DRESS HALSTON HERITAGE WASHED SILK-SATIN DRESS

SHOES VALENTINO CRYSTAL VERSAILLES BOW SATIN SANDALS

EARRINGS VINCE CAMUTO STONE PAVE ELEGANT DROP EARRING

RING ALEXIS BITTAR WHITE QUARTZ ENCRUSTED PYRITE DOUBLET RING

DRIFTWOOD SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

141

W E D D I N G S D O N ' T CO M E W I T H WA R N I N G L A B E LS . T H EY CO M E W I T H P R O M I S ES O F B L I SS , B E A U T I F U L W H I T E A P P L I Q U E ' A N D B R E AT H TA K I N G STAT I O N A RY. T H EY E X U D E B R I L L I A N C E , O F F E R F U L F I L L M E N T O F CHILDHOOD DREAMS AND BRING WITH THEM THE E XC I T E M E N T O F T H I N G S TO CO M E . BU T A L A S N OT A W H I S P E R T H AT WO U L D T I P O N E O F F TO T H E POT E N T I A L D OW N T U R N T H AT CO U L D L I E A H E A D . T H I S I S N OT S U R P R I S I N G .

142

JAN / FEB

LEIGH WEBBER PHOTOGRAPHY SMITTEN

GOOD to KNOW SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

143

POST W E D D IN G D E P R ESS I O N By Tara Mills

After all a wedding is a beautiful moment in a couples life that can be cherished, enjoyed and remembered fondly. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in one's life. But before starting anew we must first shed off the old way of life and say goodbye to the time period which we have grown familiar and quite often love very much. A marriage marks the end of being single. For many, the end to one's single life denotes the completion of their youth and beginning of an adult world. Grieving the loss of anything is normal, but in the middle of planning a wedding many brides feel like something is wrong if they experience mixed feelings of sadness and excitement. { NOTE TO BRIDE: It's ok and healthy to mourn the end of your single life. Brides (and grooms) get into trouble when they try to avoid these feelings.} During the planning stage of a wedding it's easier to overlook sad feelings because there is so much going on to distract you. When planning and attending your showers everything is about you and your special day. Brides put in a great amount of attention, dedication and effort to make one day perfect. Then after that day and the honeymoon are over there is nothing to distract them from their feelings. They have time to themselves when life slows down and then some brides crash. It's estimated that postnuptial depression effects roughly ten percent of newly wed

144

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

spouses. Avoiding the the feelings one has about the end of your single life, the intense focus on one day that has past, or the combination of the two can lead to depressive symptoms after the wedding.

SO WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A BRIDE TO DO? There are a few suggestions for brides to decrease their chances of experiencing post wedding depression.

EXPERIENCE YOUR GRIEF That's right, if you're sad; be sad. Have you ever had someone tell you to just "cheer up" when you are feeling sad? Has it worked? No, it doesn't work. It usually makes people feel more upset for feeling sad in the first place. When you allow yourself to feel your emotion without judgement you create a space, so to speak. When you create a space to observe your emotions without judgement it becomes clearer that you are just that, the observer of your feelings and not the sadness itself. Journaling or talking about your feelings can be great ways that you allow yourself to experience anxiety or grief.

DON'T TRY TO BE PERFECT Becoming overly obsessed about the details of your wedding is one way a bride can avoid her fears, anxieties, and grief. There is

a great amount of pressure to find the perfect venue, the perfect dress, the perfect linens. Instead of saying, "We found the perfect venue" or "I found the perfect dress" you may want to consider saying, "We found a venue that is right for us". Pressure for perfection can be overwhelming and take away from joy you may have otherwise experienced in your various tasks.

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR PARTNER Staying connected to your partner can remind you that the wedding is not about finding just the right place setting but rather is a celebration that marks the beginning of your life together. Often times grooms get lost in the planning of a wedding and have little to nothing to

do with the details. Checking in with your groom can be a great place where you can share your concerns and talk about your fears.

DON'T BE FOOLED BY WHAT PEOPLE SAY We all heard familiar sayings at some point or another. "This is the happiest time of your life", is a phrase that people hand out as thoughtlessly and effortlessly as chewing gum. What they don't realize is that it can cause despair in those who believe the phrase and are not feeling over joyed. There are many "happiest time(s) of your life". As a mentor of mine once told me you can be happy at any age. There is no criteria for happiness. That's the most wonderful thing about true happiness: it has no limiting factors.

DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION THAT IS WEIGHING ON YOUR MIND? Send it to Tara@ForGoodLoving.com and your question may be featured in an upcoming issue of Smitten

About the author... Tara Mills is a psychotherapist who specializes in marriage counseling and all issues related to coupling in and out of the boudoir. For more information visit: ForGoodLoving.com

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

145

146

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

elle&

zach S T. R E G I S S A N F R A N C I S C O

SA N FR A NCISCO, C A

photographed by MICHAEL MURAMOTO

They say the magic is in the details, but when they sparkle and shine — those shoes! — a wedding becomes truly wondrous. “We wanted something sleek, modern and cosmopolitan, with an underlying sense of intimacy,” Elle explains. Consider it done. Held at a posh high-rise hotel inspired by a Manhattan townhouse, the event was infused with sophisticated touches — lots of clear glass and bright white orchids — and a few doses of glitz, like her crystal-dotted veil and bead-encrusted gown. Elle and Zach's favorite moment of all? “Sitting at our sweetheart table," she says. "We gazed around the candlelit room, filled with friends and family, and said in unison: ‘it's perfect.’" CLAIRE E. KEYS

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

147

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

149

150

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

151

152

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

153

Wines to be enjoyed among friends, on the dinner table, with family, accompanied by music & laughter.

A simple pleasure that

brings smiles, joy and gives

purpose.

(707) 942-0400 154

JAN / FEB

Pe r c eptionwines.com SMITTEN

Photo: Ann Hawthorne

Mark Ray, Winemaker

WHAT´S COMING

NEXT ? for

MAR/AP R

TOP 5 NEW

DESIGNERS

RAINY DAY SOLUTIONS

THE BELOVED

ANATOMY OF A BOUQUET

INSPIRING

IDEAS REAL GORGEOUS WEDDINGS

and more!

LISA LEFKOWITZ

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

155

156

JAN / FEB

SMITTEN

D E S T I N AT I O N

VENDOR

GUIDE

PAIGE WINN

J.MAJORS

WEDDING ROW

PHOTOGRAPHER

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

THE N.C. WEDDING BLOG

paigewinnphoto.com

jmajors.com

weddingrowcharlotte.com

CLOTH CONNECTION

HOPPMANN CREATIVE

LEIGH WEBBER

S P E C I A LT Y L I N E N R E N TA L S

WEBSITE/BLOG DESIGN

PHOTOGRAPHER

clothconnection.com

hoppmanncreative.com

ltwebber.com

SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

157

A SPECIAL

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR CONTRIBUTORS

158

AFR

HISTORIC ROSEDALE

SMOCK

ALEXNADRA MUNZEL

HOPPMANN CREATIVE

SQUEEZE ONSITE

ALICIA LALONE

INGRID NELSON

STACEY EVANS

ARIELLA CHEZAR

JANEL CLAIRE DESIGN

STARS MODEL MANAMENT

BE INSPIRED PR

JOHNATHAN DAVIS

SUMMIT SOIREE

BELLA BRIDESMAID

KEVIN CHIN PHOTOGRAPHY

TAYLOR PHAM

CECI JOHNSON

KRISTIN NEWMAN

THE CONNELLYS

CECI NEW YORK

LAZARO

THE SPECIAL DAY

CHRISTINA FARAH PHOTOGRPAHY

LEIGH WEBBER

A BRIDE'S BEST FRIEND

CINDY CHANG

LINDSEY WORSHAM

BHLDN

CLOTH CONNECTION

LISA LEFKOWITZ

CLASSIC PARTY RENTALS

COURTNEY CHAU

LUKE WILSON SPECIAL EVENTS

J MAJORS BRIDAL

JAN / FEB

CRUMBS COUTURE

LULU EVENTS

KRISTI AMOROSO

DANDELION EVENTS

MICHAEL MURAMUTO

MAYBELLE IMASA STUKULS

DULLES DESIGNS

MIMI RICKET

MEG SEXTON

ESD

MINT LOCATIONS

PLACE FOR FLOWERS

ELLE JAE PHOTOGRAPHY

NANCY LIU CHIN

STUDIO MSV

EVAN LAETTNER

RICHARD ISRAEL

TARA MILLS

HEATHER BARRIE

SALUTATIONS

VERA WANG

HEY LAD SHOES

SIMONE CHEZAR

SMITTEN

Us!

BE IN THE K N O W. . . subscribe to our mail list!

SEE YOU IN MARCH! SMITTEN

JAN / FEB

159