St. Louis Bride Spring - Summer 2013 by Nancy Slade

DDreramatic sses SPRING/SUMMER 2013

30+ Gorgeous Gowns

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RECEPTION VENUES CAKE TABLES

23 REAL WEDDINGS TRENDING DESIGNS THE WEDDING MENU Local chefs share their faves

BOUQUETS HONEYMOON TRAVELS St. Louis couples share their stories

ETIQUETTE Q&A WITH ANNA POST $5.00 DISPLAY UNTIL JULY 5, 2013

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Burns Photography

314.821.0076

sistersflowers.net

L Photographie

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A Customized wedding venue that reflects your personal

style.

St. Louis. The love this family puts into everything they do is reflective not only in their food and award-winning wines, but also in their hospitality and loyalty to brides. Hosting only one event at a time means this business closes early daily at 5 p.m. to ensure your families have the grounds exclusively to themselves for your event and any photo sessions you may choose to have. Villa Antonio’s wedding coordinator works with the families, constantly ensuring every detail runs smoothly, whether it involves having a “Ring Pig” or a Cinderella carriage for the brides. The ability to bring in your own selected vendors adds to the personal touches that makes your wedding day truly a reflection of you. Villa Antonio Winery, however, does not allow other caterers as their outstanding northern Italian cuisine will only add to the reflection of the winery experience.

Photos Courtesy of Zetti Photography, LTD.

Jessica Donna Photography

illa Antonio Winery is located in Hillsboro just 45 minutes from downtown

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Photos 2011 ÂŠ Love and Life Photography

The Perfect Outdoor Venue for Weddings, Receptions and Special Occasions Open Seven Days A Week from 11 AM until 5 PM

3662 Linhorst Road || Hillsboro, Missouri 63050 || 636-475-5008

www.villaantoniowinery.com

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ONE VENUE, TWO UNFORGETTABLE STYLES. SET ON THE RIVER BLUFFS OVERLOOKING THE CONFLUENCE OF THE MISSOURI AND MISSISSIPPI RIVERS, OLD WORLD STYLE AND RUSTIC COUNTRY CHARM AWAITS.

314.226.0709 info@kuhsfarm.com kuhsfarm.com Facebook.com/kuhsfarm

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from the editor

LETTING KIDS BE KIDS On October 28, 2012, my sister Donna and her fiance, Terry, celebrated their wedding day. It was an intimate ceremony—one they planned together. When my husband and I heard the news of their engagement a few months earlier, we were thrilled for them and even more excited about our children and great-niece being a part of their wedding. With a room full of guests, I stayed back with the bride and wedding party. It was decided the children would walk together as a trio. Out the door they went, making their way down the aisle. I heard the guests “ooh” and “aah”—and, with a sigh of relief, I motioned for my sister to get ready for her debut. As I opened the doors, little Marie had run back to where she started—reaching up for me to hold her. The guests were giggling. No matter what size wedding, children complement any wedding party. Next to the bride, they are little show-stoppers and their antics and unpredictability are enjoyed by everyone. So many times, brides tend to be over-cautious about including children in their wedding parties or inviting them to their weddings. My sister made it down the aisle just fine. The wedding ceremony and reception went on without a hiccup. The night was enjoyed by everyone, right down to my 16-month-old daughter who held her own on the dance floor.

Nancy L. Slade, Editor

Scenes from a celebration: The kids joined the bride and groom in the spotlight.

Visit us online at www.bridestl.com and www.facebook.com/stl.bride 12

EDITOR'S PHOTO BY SIGNATURE STUDIO; WEDDING PHOTOS BY SARAH MOON

My advice? Follow your heart. Include the kids.

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Let us bring the ceremony of your dreams to life. Let us provide a perfect pairing of ambience and aperitifs. Let us combine classic elegance with modern flair. Let us create the moment that makes this memory last forever.

Create the wedding of your dreams with the incomparable service and splendor of The Ritz-Carlton. For a wedding consultation, call Robin Albach at 314-863-6300 or visit ritzcarlton.com/stlouis.

ÂŠ2012 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

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CONTENTS

SPRING/SUMMER 2013

FEATURES 116

PHOTO SYNTHESIS An installation of bouquets and gowns

130

DELECTABLE DISHES Chefs suggest ways to be creative with the menu at your reception

142

OPENING ACT Cakes take center stage with a brilliant supporting cast

REAL WEDDINGS REAL MOMENTS 23 couples tie the knot

©L PHOTOGRAPHIE

2012 WWW.BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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CONTENTS

TIPS & TRENDS 82

AROUND TOWN St. Louis wedding news

SITES TO BEHOLD Nine reception venues

112

110

LET'S GO SHOPPING

CHEVRONS, QUATREFOILS AND STRIPES, OH MY!

102

LETTER FROM A MOTHER OF THE BRIDE Lessons learned while navigating the wedding waters

110

THE WEDDING YOU'VE BEEN DREAMING OF? Little girls share their wedding dreams

112

BIRD WATCHING Including bird accents in your wedding

160

ON THE RUNWAY Six designers show their newest lines

112

LESSONS FROM REALITY T.V. Tune in, take note, say "I do"

172

ASK ANNA Q&A with etiquette expert Anna Post

200

FINDING THE PERFECT GOWN

204

TWEAKS ON TRADITION Some twists and trends on wedding day customs

PLANNING

130

160

104

THE HONEYMOON DECISION

178

TALK BEFORE YOU WALK (DOWN THE AISLE) Five things to discuss before marriage

207

WEDDING COUNTDOWN PLANNING CALENDAR

RESOURCES 209 MAKING IT LEGAL Where and how to apply for the marriage license

210

RECEPTION SITES List of venues in an easy-to-read grid

218

SAINT LOUIS BRIDE ESSENTIAL GUIDE A list of top vendors, services, locations and hours

219

104 18

TRUNK SHOW CALENDAR

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:

www.facebook.com/stl.bride http://twitter.com/STLBRIDE

WWW.BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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MAKE IT IT MODERN, MODERN, MAKE MAGICAL AND AND MAGICAL MEMORABLE MEMORABLE Letus uscreate createaawedding weddingwith withmodern modernsophistication. sophistication.Imagine Imagineyour yourceremony ceremony Let outdoorson onour oureighth-floor eighth-floorSky SkyTerrace, Terrace,sparkling sparklingwith withsignature signatureSt. St.Louis Louis outdoors views.Celebrate Celebratein inour ourchic chicballroom ballroomwith withchandeliers chandelierschanging changingcolor colorto to views. matchthe themood, mood,and andinventive inventivefood foodand anddrink, drink,served servedwith withFour FourSeasons Seasonsflair. flair. match

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STLW

Editor Nancy L. Slade

Art Director Teri Samuels

Publisher Ethan Woods

Senior Account Manager Debbie Chervitz Account Managers Kathy Pieri Chris Taylor Circulation Manager Amy Fenster Brown

Product Managers Jasond Fernandez Cher Wheeler Graphic Designers Michele Wheeler Raquel Gardner Derek Schoenfeldt Photo Retoucher Jerry Hartman

Photo Retoucher (Ads) Erik Lewis

♥ SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE MVP St. Louis 1006 Olive Street, Suite 202 St. Louis, MO 63101 (314) 588-8313 FAX (314) 588-0920 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE® is a registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications. SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE® makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. Subscriptions in US $10.00 for one year (two issues), $20.00 for two years (four issues). Remit funds to www.bridestl.com

♥ Morris VisITor Publications MVP | Executive

President Donna W. Kessler Vice President of Operations Angela E. Allen MVP | Creative

Chief Creative Officer Haines Wilkerson Senior Editorial Director Rosie Leonetti Design Director Jane Frey Email for the above: firstname.lastname@morris.com

A Publication of the Visitor Publications Division of Morris Communications Company, LLC 725 Broad St., Augusta, Ga. 30901

Chairman & CEO William S. Morris III President William S. Morris IV P rinted in the U nited S tates

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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contributors

working behind the scenes

“What I enjoyed most about this shoot was the avant-garde feel. I was able to create a dark, edgy bridal look that was smokey but sophisticated at the same time.” 1

2 1 LIZ SLOAN 2 KATE HAYES

Liz and Kate are the wedding duo at L Photographie, a fine art boutique photography studio located in the Central West End. Combined Liz and Kate have 18 years of professional photography experience and have captured over 350 weddings. “Our favorite part of this shoot was the creative process that brought the project to its final form. From initial concept to finished execution, it continually evolved and became something that we are all very proud of! We are pretty sure none of us knew exactly what the final result would look like until the very end. We were all a little out of our comfort zone, pushing the envelope and working in a challenging lighting situation with a new concept. As it turns out, sometimes when you step outside of your regular world, that’s when the best stuff happens.”

3 SHELLI ALRED Shelli Alred has been the owner and lead designer of Alred Wedding Consultants since 2003. She has her degree in Clothing and Textiles with a specialization in pattern making from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. “My favorite aspect of helping

create this fashion shoot was the team work that it all takes. It began as an idea that morphed into what you see here. Putting four creative minds to work can really create magic. When you have good models, good dresses, good hair and make-up, a good venue and two great photographers you get something amazing.” Shelli is a frequent contributor and stylist for Saint Louis Bride.

4 LISA LIPSITZ Lisa Lipsitz is the owner and head makeup artist at Looks By Lisa and has been in the makeup industry for over 13 years. She has Advanced Certification In Airbrush Makeup from Temptu Studios in Los Angeles. “What I enjoyed the most about this shoot was the avant-garde feel. I was able to create a dark, edgy bridal look that was smokey but sophisticated at the same time.” This is her fifth fashion spread for Saint Louis Bride.

BONNIE BOZE PHOTO BY MAGGIE STOLZBERG PHOTOGRAPHY

—LISA LIPSITZ

WWW.BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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Open by appointment only at our new location featuring a 6000 square foot designer showroom.

2734 LaSalle St. St. Louis, MO 63104

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contributors

working behind the scenes

6 2

5 BONNIE BOZE Bonnie Boze has been been a hair designer in the St. Louis Metro area for over 18 years. She specializes in doing hair for bridal parties. “I was thrilled to be part of this shoot. I had creative freedom to style the hair, and wanted something that a bride could imagine having done with her hair, with just a bit less height, while still keeping the look dramatic.” This is Bonnie’s first fashion spread and cover for Saint Louis Bride.

“We both were so honored to be able to shoot something that is near and dear to our hearts......wedding cake! Each and every event coodinator did a phenomenal job artistically executing each design without any detail spared.”

6 CAROLYN BURKE Carolyn Burke - Wedding Liaison has been an event location specialist since 2004. Carolyn is a frequent contributor to Saint Louis Bride and writes our “Sites to Behold” column beginning on page 88.

7 DAVID LANCASTER David’s daytime career as editor of Where magazine and Kansas City Where Guestbook has never kept him from being a longtime contributor to the pages of Saint Louis Bride, for which he has pho-

tographed countless bouquets, gifts, jewelry, accessories, food and fashion over the last thirteen years. For this issue, David visited the kitchens of some of the city’s top caterers to photograph chefs and their creations for “Delectable Dishes.” “I only wish you could smell and taste this food,” he says. “Absolutely delicious.”

8 MARSHA WHITE AND SARAH KLUMP Marsha and Sarah make up the mother-daughter team, WhiteKlump Photography. Marsha has been a well known landscape and wedding photographer for over 25 years, with Sarah joining her mom six years ago. They both are absolutely in love with capturing all of the candid moments and raw emotion that come with each and every wedding they photograph. They photographed the cakes feature (“Opening Act“), beginning on page 142.

—MARSHA AND SARAH, WHITE-KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY

WWW.BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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Cosmopolitan Events

EVENT

WEDDING DAY

WEDDING

design coordination planning

Photography by Megan Thiele Studios

Sally John AND

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314.249.9107

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

CosmopolitanEvents.com

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on the cover

When you have good models, good dresses, good hair and make-up, a good venue and two great photographers you get something amazing. —SHELLI ALRED, STYLIST

HAIR: Molly’s long tresses were styled into a modern version of a classic French Twist, with emphasis on exaggeration. Kenra Volume Spray 25 was used as a setting prior to curling and Kevin Murphy Motion Lotion was applied to break up the curls without frizz. Kenra Platinum Finishing Spray 26 set the completed look. MAKEUP: Molly’s flawless cover look was created using Temptu Professional Airbrush for foundation, blush and bronzer. Her dramatic, smoky eyes were created using Bobbi Brown shadows and gel ink eyeliners, while Dior Show mascara finished off her lush lashes.

THE DRESS: Embroidered organza, pleated A-line skirt by Judd Waddell features eyelet and grosgrain sash at waist, $3,960 at Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique. THE HEADPIECE: “Sierra” crystal and pearl headband by Meg Jewelry, $330 from Simply Elegant Bridal. FLOWERS: Hand-tied bouquet of English garden roses, hydrangeas, Queen Anne’s lace, stock, peonies, tulips and ranunculus by Artistry Florist.

MODEL: Molly McCann from West Model & Talent Management • PHOTOGRAPHER: Liz Sloan and Kate Hayes, L Photographie STYLIST: Shelli Alred, Alred Wedding Consultants • MAKEUP: Lisa Lipsitz, St. Louis Bridal Hair & Makeup • HAIR: Bonnie Boze, St. Louis Bridal Hair & Makeup • LOCATION: The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis • BOUQUET: Artistry Florist

WWW.BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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9th Street Abbey in Historic Soulard

One Caterer. Countless Venues. Endless Possibilities. By Appointment 314.621.9598 www.PattyLongCatering.com

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real moments Katie Kemp & Chet Hileman September 8, 2012 Photographed by untamed heart Photography

Through mutual friends While in Nashville celebrating their three-year anniversary NUMBER OF GUESTS: 185 WEDDING COLORS: Poppy red with accents of yellow, deep burgundy, coral and fuchsia THE MENU: A Mexicanthemed buffet by Gregory’s Creative Cuisine and a barbecue buffet by Unique Catering of Jefferson City WEDDING FAVORS: To go with the Mexican theme, guests were given Sweet Treats (Mexican wedding cookies) and Spicy Treats (jalapeño-cheddar peanuts), in hand-stamped bags BAND: The Soulard Blues Band FIRST DANCE: “Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash (“It’s actually a love song about marriage!”) BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Walking down the grass-covered hill with my father en route to the aisle. An enormous 200 year-old oak tree sat the bottom of the hill and Chet was waiting for me under it. Looking down there and seeing him and my spot next to him as well as all of our friends and family, it brought the biggest smile to my face. After seeing all the faces of the ones I love, my nervousness went away and I was filled with joy and excitement.” HONEYMOON: San Francisco RESIDE: St. Louis HOW THEY MET:

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED:

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Kristin Ashley Events • FLORIST: Bouquets/Boutonnieres by Becky Huffman Flowers. Table arrangements and all other flowers by Katie Kemp (bride) and Dair Hileman • BRIDE’S DRESS: Brides by Demetrios • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Macy’s • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Bridesmaids chose their own • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: Kuhs Farm • CATERER: Gregory's Creative Cuisine and Unique Catering • DESSERTS: Britt Tate Beaugard • SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Aries • LINENS: Hand-painted runners by the bride; and Aries Company • RENTALS: The Aries Company and Vintage for the Day • PAPER GOODS: Katie Kemp

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real moments Amanda Michelle Daniels & Leonard Dante Harris November 4, 2012 Photographed by alecia hoyt photography HOW THEY MET: In college, at Southeast Missouri State HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: On a European cruise, Donte proposed to Amanda at dinner with her family looking on NUMBER OF GUESTS: 206 WEDDING COLORS: Coral, gray and ivory HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT: Amanda designed the guest book, creating it with their engagement pictures. The ceremony included a blending of the sands with Amanda, Donte and Donte’s daughter. BAND: Press Play DJ: Fred AKA Smoooth FIRST DANCE: “1+1” by Beyonce WEDDING STORYBOOK TITLE: Today, Tomorrow and Forever. VIDEOGRAPHER: Alex Peterson Company BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Our first dance—I felt as if all the guests disappeared and we were the only two remaining in the entire room!” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “The moment that the doors opened and I saw her for the first time. I think I literally stopped breathing for a few seconds. The only thought running through my head was how grateful I am that God allowed us to cross paths. I am so blessed!” HONEYMOON: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic RESIDE: Saint Peters, MO

FLORIST: RW Designs • BRIDE’S DRESS: Brides by Demetrios • GROOM AND GROOMSMEN ATTIRE: Mens Wearhouse • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Bill Levkoff, Brides by Demetrios • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: The Coronado Ballroom • CAKE: The Coronado Ballroom • LINENS: Party Arts & Weinhardt • CHAIR COVERS: Take a Seat • LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Parties and Props

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real moments Shelley Houk & Michael Wade October 13, 2012 Photographed by Lynn terry PHOTOGRAPHY

HOW THEY MET: Both skate for premier roller derby leagues and fell in love on the rink HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: Michael proposed on a pier on Lake Erie in Cleveland, where he grew up NUMBER OF GUESTS: 130 WEDDING COLORS: Vintage aqua blue and candy apple red SOMETHING OLD: Vintage pearl earrings SOMETHING NEW: Shoes from Pin Up Girl Clothing SOMETHING BORROWED: Cameo necklace SOMETHING BLUE: Bluebird hair piece HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT: With a traditional Buddhist ceremony, which included adornments blessed by the Dhali Llama. Every decoration was handmade by the couple, from the cupcake record stands to the details on the bridesmaids’ shoes. WEDDING FAVORS: Vintage candy (including candy cigarettes from the 50s!) DJ: CJ’s Disc Jockey Service WEDDING STORYBOOK TITLE: Juke and Starry’s Rockabilly Bash BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT:

“Seeing Michael for the first time when I stepped out to walk down the aisle. He had tears in his eyes and he mouthed the words “Oh wow.” I'll never forget it because he swore he wouldn’t cry but he did and we locked eyes the whole walk down the aisle.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “When the music changed right before Shelley was about to walk down the aisle. A slow Elvis Presley song came on, and I realized this was the moment my life was about to change.” RESIDE: St. Louis

FLORIST: Botanicals Design Studio • BRIDE’S DRESS: Clarice's Bridal • GROOM AND GROOMSMEN ATTIRE: Shirts from Warrior Clothing, in England • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: David's Bridal • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: Mad Art Gallery •caterer: Hollyberry Catering

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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real moments Rebecca Gaines & Justin Tong August 8, 2012 Photographed by white-klump Photography

HOW THEY MET: “Through a mutual friend at Bar Louie; we were both with a group of friends and started talking after he dropped his fish taco in my beer.” HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: Over a home-cooked meal, with Justin’s mother’s ring NUMBER OF GUESTS: 190 WEDDING COLORS: Grey and yellow SOMETHING OLD: Veil of the mother-ofthe-bride SOMETHING NEW: Bride’s earrings SOMETHING BORROWED: A penny that Becky’s best friend carried for good luck in her wedding SOMETHING BLUE: A sapphire ring given to Becky by her parents when she turned 18 HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT: The couple’s dog Arnold was included on the cake topper and their signature drink was an Arnold Palmer in his honor. Becky and Justin wrote their ceremony with the help of Becky’s uncle, who performed it. Both Justin’s Buddhist and Becky’s Methodist religions were incorporated. The music was instrumental versions of their favorites songs and Becky walked down the aisle to “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles. WEDDING FAVORS: The candy table where guests could fill up Chinese takeout boxes DJ: Complete Music FIRST DANCE: “This Years Love” by David Gray RESIDE: Chicago

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Alred Wedding Consultants • FLORIST: Artistry • BRIDE’S DRESS: Enzoani, Simply Elegant Bridal • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Savvi Formalwear • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Dessy, Simply Elegant Bridal • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: Palladium Saint Louis • CAKE: The Cakery • LINENS: BBJ and Cloth Connection • RENTALS: The Aries Company • PAPER GOODS: Designed by Katie Gaines

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real moments Danielle Windmueller & Michael Toro Jr. June 29, 2012 Photographed by BOBBI BRINKMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Through Mike’s best friend NUMBER OF GUESTS: 140 WEDDING COLORS: Coral and Gray HOW THEY MET:

SOMETHING OLD, BORROWED AND BLUE: A charm bracelet given by the bride’s grandfather to her mother as a little girl SOMETHING NEW: A veil handmade for the bride from Sweet Georgia Veils WEDDING FAVORS: Donations to Relay for Life and A.D.O.P.T. of Jefferson County DJ: CJ’s Disc Jockey Service FIRST DANCE: “Wanted” by Hunter Hayes WEDDING STORYBOOK TITLE: D+M: An intimate story, Our Story BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Saying our vows. We wrote our own vows and listening to Mike’s was an extra special moment for me. It was yet another confirmation he truly is the one for me.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT:

“Walking up to Danielle for our first glance. She is so beautiful.” HONEYMOON: Secrets Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic RESIDE: Pacific, MO ADVICE FOR BRIDES TO BE: “Do your research! Choose vendors to create your team for your wedding. You cannot put a price on wisdom, passion, and experience. We truly felt the love, respect and dedication of each and every vendor. The team has to be able to work together seamlessly and combine their knowledge to keep the day moving smoothly and effortlessly.”

FLORIST: Sisters Floral Design Studio • BRIDE’S DRESS: Brides by Demetrios • BRIDE’S VEIL: Sweet Georgia Veils • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Savvi Formalwear • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Chose their own • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: The Hyatt St. Louis at the Arch, Rooftop Terrace • CAKE: Sugaree • SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: CJ's Disc Jockey Service • PAPER GOODS: Clever Hands Press

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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Grand scale. Intimate feel. Celebrate at The Arch. Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch is ready to turn wedding venues into elegant showplaces: from opulent grand ballrooms, to the intimate Park View room, to the premier 18th floor ballroom and terrace overlooking the Gateway Arch. Book now and enjoy up to five free honeymoon nights at participating Hyatts in North America, Hawaii and the Caribbean.** From superb catering, to special guestroom rates, our expert planners will take care of everything, so you can focus on making memories to last a lifetime. To inquire, call 314 342 4655 or visit hyattregencystlouis.com. Hyatt. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re More Than Welcome.

HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS AT THE ARCH

315 Chestnut Street St. Louis, Missouri, USA 63102

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real moments Katie Callaghan & Mickey Turner July 21, 2012 Photographed by jon koch Photography

On the first day of graduate school at Washington University HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: Mickey took Katie out to a romantic dinner downtown. He had their parents waiting at the restaurant, and they all celebrated together. NUMBER OF GUESTS: 208 WEDDING COLORS: Blush and champagne HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT: Guests were treated to St. Louis favorites as a late night snack: Imo's Pizza, Ted Drewes, and Italian wedding cookies from the Missouri Bakery. There was an Eiffel Tower ice sculpture, because they studied abroad together in Paris, and they took pictures at Washington University since that's where they fell in love. WEDDING FAVORS: In honor and appreciation of our guests, the couple made a donation in memory of Katie's father, Dr. Gerard Callaghan, to the American Cancer Society. BAND: Galaxy Red FIRST DANCE: “Look at Me,” by Carrie Underwood VIDEOGRAPHER: Copy Cat Video BRIDE'S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: Her sister and Mom surprised her with a fireworks display, something Katie always dreamed of at her wedding. It was planned by Katie’s sister, mom and Katie’s late father. GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “The procession out of the church just after being named man and wife. The emotion of the wedding was at its highest point and being able to see all of the faces that had been a part of my life along the way was truly amazing.” HONEYMOON: Kauai and Maui RESIDE: Pittsburgh, PA HOW THEY MET:

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Cosmopolitan Events • FLORIST: Bloomin' Buckets • BRIDE’S DRESS: Vera Wang • GROOM and groomsmen ATTIRE: Savvi Formalwear • BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Danielle Erb, DanielleStyle • BRIDESMAIDS HAIR & MAKEUP: Season's Spa and Salon BRIDESMAID DRESSES: BCBG Max Azria • WEDDING LOCATION: Shrine of St. Joseph • RECEPTION VENUE: Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis CAKE: Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis • SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Swank Audio Visuals • LINENS: Party Arts • CHAIRS: Premier Rentals PAPER GOODS: Vellum • MUSIC: Seranade Strings and Melissa Payton • ICE SCULPTURE: Ice Visions • TRANSPORTATION: St. Louis Trolley

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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Denash Photography

www.simplyelegantbridalstl.com 1004 Olive Street St. Louis, MO 63101

Jessica Ahlborn Photography

314.241.8201

Sold exclusively at Simply Elegant Bridal in St. Louis

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real moments Lindsey Gott & Tom de Greck November 3, 2012 Photographed by robert george studio

HOW THEY MET: Through a mutual friend. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: Tom proposed to Lindsey at Artesa Winery in Napa Valley. He spent weeks making sure it would be perfect! NUMBER OF GUESTS: 200 WEDDING COLORS: Pink, pink, and more pink! THE MENU: Bistro salad, grilled petite filet of beef tenderloin and pan-seared sea bass, fettuccine vegetables, trio of roasted potatoes HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT:

Lindsey and her father were escorted to the ceremony in a horse drawn carriage. Lindsey and Tom surprised the guests with a firework show, which took place overlooking the Missouri River. WEDDING FAVORS: “Save your soles and dance” flip-flops BAND: Downtime Band FIRST DANCE: “When You Got a Good Thing,” by Lady Antebellum WEDDING STORYBOOK TITLE: Parisian Chic Fairytale Wedding BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “The first look. Tom and I shared a special moment where we saw each other before the wedding. It was magical! I was so eager to spend the rest of my life with the man of my dreams.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Seeing Lindsey for the first time before the wedding.” HONEYMOON: Cruise through the French Polynesian Islands RESIDE: St. Louis ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE: “Stay on top of your thank you notes!”

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Bride’s Vision • FLORIST: Artistry • BRIDE’S DRESS: Monique Lhuillier, Town and Country Bridal • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Calvin Klein, Men’s Wearhouse • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: David’s Bridal • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: Kuhs Estate, Spanish Lake, MO • CATERER: Butler’s Pantry • CAKE: Barb Hinderliter, Salem, MO • SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Exclusive Events LINENS: Sitting Pretty • RENTALS: Event Partners, The Aries Company, Premier Rentals • PAPER GOODS: M. Haley Design MUSIC: Rosewood Ensemble

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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SPRING/SUMMER 2013 • www.bridestl.com

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real moments David Cole, Jr. & Dr. Jason Turner June 23, 2012 Photographed by bobbi brinkman PHOTOGRAPHY

At church HOW On vacation in California NUMBER OF GUESTS: 150 WEDDING COLORS: Black, white and fuchsia DJ: CJ’s Disc Jockey Service FIRST DANCE: “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You” DAVID’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Looking into Jason’s eyes as he sang a song to me.” JASON’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Seeing David cry as I sang to him and feeling like we were the only two people there.” OCCUPATIONS: Owners of Total Care Dental and TC Real Estate HONEYMOON: Boston and Cape Cod RESIDE: Sunset Hills, MO ADVICE FOR ENGAGED COUPLES: “Surround yourself with fun, competent people who can take care of last minute decisions and details, so you can enjoy your day!” MORE EXCITING NEWS FOR THE COUPLE: “We have had the unexpected opportunity to add two more children to our family!” HOW THEY MET:

THEY GOT ENGAGED:

FLORIST: Jeffrey’s Flowers by Design, Wood River, IL • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: Patty Long’s 9th Street Abbey CAKE: McArthur’s Bakery • LINENS: 9th Street Abbey • PAPER GOODS: Vellum

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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real moments Jennifer Betlejewski & Jason Blusius October 13, 2012 Photographed by lam Photography

HOW THEY MET: Working together in Southeast Texas HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: Jason began teaching their dog, Gunther, tricks prior to the engagement. When Jason proposed, he dressed Gunther up in a tuxedo and had him walk across the room on his hind legs towards Jen. When Gunther reached her, the chest of his tuxedo read “Will you marry me?” Jason was down on one knee beside Gunther with a gorgeous ring. NUMBER OF GUESTS: 130 WEDDING COLORS: Persimmon and sage green HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT: Each table was labeled with a national park that the couple has either visited together or hopes to visit. With that theme, they included small tree stumps to showcase the fall-flavored pies. WEDDING FAVORS: Eight different kinds of Italian wedding cookies made by the groom’s family and friends DJ: Rockstar DJs FIRST DANCE: “L-O-V-E,” by Nat King Cole BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Entering the reception with my new husband and realizing that the entire room of people (and a standing ovation) was there for us, to celebrate the most amazing day of our lives.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Standing at the altar, looking beyond our guests and seeing Jen for the first time—she was glowing and beautiful. Up to that moment I was distracted with so many other details, that I forgot it was my wedding. But when I saw her at that moment, I realized she was going to be by my side and I was never going to be by myself again.” HONEYMOON: Italy RESIDE: Houston, TX

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Simply & Forever • FLORIST: The Special Event Florist • BRIDE’S DRESS: Paloma Blanca, Simply Elegant Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE: Vera Wang tuxedos, Men’s Wearhouse • BRIDE’S AND BRIDEMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: Bonnie Boze (hair); and Debbie Watson (makeup) • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: J. Crew and Anthropologie • WEDDING LOCATION: St. Catherine Laboure • RECEPTION VENUE: The Muny, Culver Pavilion • CATERER: Russo's Catering • PIES: Sugaree • PAPER GOODS: All You Need is Paper • MUSIC: Rockstar DJs

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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Your Dream Wedding In Wine Country Is Just Minutes Away

WWW .C HANDLER H ILL V INEYARDS . COM

OTHER WEDDING VENUE OFFERS the magical enchantment of Chandler Hill Vineyards. Our spectacular facility provides a majestic tasting room and reception hall, plus expansive deck with vineyard sunsets, rolling hills and scenic lake. Enjoy full-service amenities tailored to your wishes including in-house catering; private bride’s room; event planning; fireworks; and so much more — all in a Napa-style setting just minutes away. See why Chandler Hill has been voted BEST Winery Destination by SAUCE Magazine, Ladue News, and St. Louis Magazine.

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T H E R E G I O N ’ S M O S T E X QU I S I T E W I N E RY

596 Defiance Road

Defiance, MO 63341

636.798.2675

11/19/12 3:54:40 PM

real moments Jennifer Whitling & Lawrence Drury November 3, 2012 Photographed by zettl Photography HOW THEY MET: Through friends at Mosaic Restaurant HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: In a movie theater, in the middle of watching “Midnight in Paris”NUMBER OF GUESTS: 300 WEDDING COLORS: Purple, silver and black SOMETHING OLD: Vintage handkerchief SOMETHING BORROWED: Bride’s grandmother’s diamond necklace SOMETHING BLUE: Sapphire ring SOMETHING NEW: Judith Leiber purse HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT:

Each table was a different theater in the United States. The escort cards were “tickets” to that theater. WEDDING FAVORS: Crystal ornaments BAND: Into The Night (of Los Angeles) FIRST DANCE: “You and Me,” by Penny and The Quarters BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Walking into a rocking reception of family and friends! Then, having a magical first dance.” HONEYMOON: St. Lucia RESIDE: St. Louis

FLORIST: Festive Atmospheres • BRIDE’S DRESS: Ines Di Santo-Solange • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Vera Wang, Men’s Wearhouse • BRIDE’S AND BRIDSEMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: Bonnie Boze (hair); Emily Miller (makeup) • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Dessy, Bella Bridesmaids WEDDING LOCATION: Salem United Methodist • RECEPTION VENUE: Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis • CAKE: Sugaree • SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Exclusive Events • PAPER GOODS: Proskalo (of Los Angeles)

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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SPRING/SUMMER 2013 • www.bridestl.com

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real moments Nancy Morgester & Luke Dotta June 16, 2012 Photographed by MNC Photography

High school sweethearts Luke proposed on Valentine’s Day 2011 during a candlelit dinner at their first home together. Luke had the song that would become their wedding song playing in the background! NUMBER OF GUESTS: 170 WEDDING COLORS: Purple, gold and ivory HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT: The harpist played a few of “their” songs during the ceremony. They also did a hand holding ceremony and a love letter wine box ceremony. WEDDING FAVORS: Paper fans, and photos from the photobooth DJ: Complete Music FIRST DANCE: “You and I,” by Michael Buble VIDEOGRAPHER: Tower Studios HOW THEY MET:

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED:

BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT:

“It’s a toss up between seeing Luke’s face as I walked down the aisle, walking into the reception while everyone was cheering for us, or Luke’s very touching speech to me during the reception.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT:

“Watching my beautiful bride walk down the aisle toward me and being able to finally see her dress!” HONEYMOON: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic RESIDE: St. Louis ADVICE FOR BRIDESTO-BE: Plan the wedding how you and your fiancé want it to be, not what other people want it to look like and go with the flow on the day of!

FLORIST: Wildflowers • BRIDE’S DRESS: Enzoani, Simply Elegant Bridal • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Savvi Formalwear • BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: Hair: Glenn Cherryhomes, Utopia Salon and Spa; Makeup: Debbie Watson • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Donna Morgan, Nordstrom WEDDING LOCATION: The Studio Inn, St. Albans, MO• RECEPTION VENUE: The Gardens at Malmaison, St. Albans, MO • CAKE: Celebrating Life Cakes • SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Parties and Props • LINENS: Weinhardt Party Rentals TRANSPORTATION: Huntleigh/Veolia Transportation • MUSIC: Harpist Eva Murphy

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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real moments Sherin Joharifard & Ryan Bruning May 26, 2012 Photographed by stephen seebeck Photography HOW THEY MET: They first met at Mizzou, then ended up reuniting on the first day, in the same section, at Saint Louis University School of Law HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: Ryan proposed when they went to look at Christmas lights in Tilles Park NUMBER OF GUESTS: 280 WEDDING COLORS: White and gold WEDDING FAVORS: The place cards were mirrors engraved with guest names on stands for guests to have as a keepsake. BAND: Griffin and the Gargoyles. FIRST DANCE: “You are the Best Thing” by Ray Lamontagne VIDEOGRAPHER: Robert Leighton Films BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “My dad stepped on my Cathedral-length veil right before he gave me away; it was hilarious and you could tell he felt awful! We all laughed. The “I do” was the most special moment, though.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Right after we said “I do,” and walked down the aisle as husband and wife, Sherin and I had a glass of champagne alone together before we greeted guests.” HONEYMOON: Greece and France RESIDE: St. Louis ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE: “Take the day in, and truly enjoy it!! Your wedding day might be one of the only times in your life where everyone you love and everyone your husband loves are all in the same place.”

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Simcha's Events • FLORIST: Festive Atmospheres • BRIDE’S DRESS: Vera Wang, Berrybridge • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Ralph Lauren, Savvi Formalwear • BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: Danielle Erb, Danielle Style • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Two Birds, Bella Bridesmaid • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: Ritz Carlton • CAKE: Ritz Carlton • SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Exclusive Events • LINENS: BBJ Linen • PAPER GOODS: M Haley Design • MUSIC: Rosewood Ensemble

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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TWO HEARTS; ONE LOVE. True love is more than just a dream; its real, and it’s yours. Let the Renaissance St. Louis Grand Hotel make your day magical. Our expert wedding event planners provide complimentary services, handling all of the event details and work closely with you and your own wedding planner to ensure your perfect day. At the Renaissance St. Louis Grand hotel it’s about tradition. We can accommodate every wish and family tradition, offering spectacular venues to make your wedding absolutely perfect. Whether it’s a simple love story or an extravagant fairytale, discover everything you’ve ever imagined at the Renaissance St. Louis Grand Hotel With the exception of the ballroom image, all photography provided by Michelle Ross, Under Grace Photo (636) 699-8576 - undergracephoto.com

RENAISSANCE ST. LOUIS GRAND HOTEL 800 Washington Avenue St. Louis, MO 63101 t: 314.418.5820 www.renaissancestlouisgrand.com

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real moments Jenny Madras & Bob Kehm June 30, 2012 Photographed by zettl Photography

HOW THEY MET: Working together at Chaifetz Arena HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: Bob proposed on Art Hill in Forest Park during a picnic NUMBER OF GUESTS: 180 WEDDING COLORS: Gray and pink THE MENU: A specialty cocktail—watermelon basil margaritas; spinach and radiccio cup salad, roasted beef tenderloin with cabernet demi-glaze and soy peppered pork tenderloin, scalloped blue cheese potatoes, roasted baby vegetables, assorted cake truffles and gelato HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT:

The couple created a custom newspaper, which took the place of a wedding website. The guests received these in their welcome bags at the hotel and as they were exiting the church. It served as a great conversation starter among guests and way for some of the guests to get to know Jenny and Bob a little better. DJ: Millennium Productions FIRST DANCE: “God Gave Me You,” by Blake Shelton HONEYMOON: Hermitage Bay Resort in Antigua RESIDE: St. Louis ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE: “Be consistent and cohesive in your design. There are so many creative wedding color combinations, concepts, and ideas but you can’t do all of them. Pick your favorite and stick to your vision and be sure to capture your personality.”

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Before I Do • FLORIST: Botanical Design Studio • BRIDE’S DRESS: Simone Carvalli, The Wedding Gallery GROOM’S ATTIRE: Stallone’s • BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Makeup Artistry by A & C • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Jim Hjelm, Town and Country Bridal • WEDDING LOCATION: Saint Francis Xavier College Church • RECEPTION VENUE: Norwood Hills Country Club TRUFFLES: The Truffle Shack • GELATO: Gelato Di Riso • SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Exclusive Events • LINENS: BBJ Linens RENTALS: The Aries Company • PAPER GOODS: M Haley Design • MUSIC: Millennium Productions • ICE SCULPTURE: Ice Cuisine

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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real moments Mary Patterson & Adam Fuemmeler September 21, 2012 Photographed by Joel marion Photography

In college, at the University of Missouri at Columbia HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: On a trip to San Francisco in September of 2011. While hiking in Muir woods, Adam surprised Mary during a water break by getting down on one knee and asking her to marry him. NUMBER OF GUESTS: 215 WEDDING COLORS: Purple, yellow and grey THE MENU: A wine country salad followed by a duo of Chicken Toscana and beef tenderloin with potatoes au gratin and green beans. Pizza was served later in the evening. BAND: Lenny Klinger’s Galaxy FIRST DANCE: “Sweet Thing” by Van Morrison HOW THEY MET:

BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT:

“Seeing Adam for the first time, privately and before the ceremony.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT:

“Mary walking down the aisle.” Mary is a pediatric nurse working at a children’s hospital and Adam is an attorney. HONEYMOON: Mallorca and Madrid, Spain and Paris, France RESIDE: Kansas City, MO OCCUPATIONS:

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Bride’s Vision • FLORIST: Bloomin’ Buckets • BRIDE’S DRESS: Amsale, Town and Country Bridal • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Nordstrom • BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: Fringe Salon and Spa • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Jasmine Bridal, Town and Country Bridal • WEDDING LOCATION: St. Clement of Rome • RECEPTION VENUE: Chandler Hill Vineyards • CAKE: Sugaree

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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coronado_stlbride2012Rfinal.pdf

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6/13/12

9:02 AM

6/13/12 2:33:04 PM

real moments Jessica Kirchner & Jason Thein September 28, 2012 Photographed by switzer film

On a blind date HOW Jason took Jessica on a surprise trip to Miami. During dinner, Jason proposed to Jessica while a musician played “Marry Me” by Train. NUMBER OF GUESTS: 150 WEDDING COLORS: Ivory, pale pink, taupe, white, cream SOMETHING OLD: Bride’s deceased grandmother’s high school ring SOMETHING NEW: Sapphire ring purchased by the groom SOMETHING BORROWED: Groom’s mother’s ring SOMETHING BLUE: Lulu Townsend purse HOW THEY MET:

THEY GOT ENGAGED:

HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT:

The use of the fleur-de-lis in the theme of the wedding, as that symbol has come to signify St. Louis as home to a couple of non-St. Louisans. FIRST DANCE: “Swept Away” by The Avett Brothers WEDDING STORYBOOK TITLE: Swept Away VIDEOGRAPHER: Switzer Film BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT:

“Seeing Jason at the altar was by far the best part of the day.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Being completely awestruck by Jess’s beauty and happiness at the ‘first look’ before the wedding.” HONEYMOON: St. Thomas Virgin Islands RESIDE: University City ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE: “Hire a wedding planner! We were actually able to enjoy the planning process and the day of the ceremony because of her amazing staff and how well she knows, and works with, her vendors.”

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Lacy Branch Events • FLORIST: Belli Fiori • BRIDE’S DRESS: Enzoani, Simply Elegant Bridal • BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: Tami Scott • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Jim Hjelm, The Ultimate Bride • WEDDING LOCATION: The Statler Ballroom, Renaissance Grand Hotel • RECEPTION VENUE: The Crystal Ballroom, Renaissance Grand Hotel • CAKE: Sarah’s Cake Shop SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Millennium Productions • PAPER GOODS: Two Blue Doors • MUSIC: American Idle, Contemporary Productions and The Rosewood Ensemble • RENTALS: The Aries Company

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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Invite some really big names

to your wedding.

ake your reception even more memorable by booking it at the Saint Louis Zoo. The Zoo offers five unique rental facilities– The Living World, Lakeside Café, River Camp, the Event Tent and Peabody Hall, each with its own distinctive flair and a variety of delicious catering options. We’ll handle all the details, so you can relax and enjoy your special day. Best of all, each venue is just a short stroll from more than 700 exotic species of animals, through 90 lush, landscaped acres. For more information, call (314) 646-4855 or visit stlzoo.org and fill out an online rental inquiry form.

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real moments Jennifer LaBundy & Ashok Palagiri July 7, 2012 Photographed by L Photographie

HOW THEY MET: At Saint Louis University Hospital, where both were training as physicians HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: Ashok proposed at Thanksgiving dinner in front of his entire family and Jennifer’s father NUMBER OF GUESTS: 170 WEDDING COLORS: Red and gold for the Hindu ceremony; white, silver and blue for the Christian ceremony and reception WEDDING FAVORS: First-aid kits, since they met each at a hospital and are both physicians DJ: DJ Madmonk FIRST DANCE: “At Last” by Etta James VIDEOGRAPHER: A Love Story Productions BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “When Ashok recited his vows. He is a man of few outward emotions, but that day he wore his heart on his sleeve. As he spoke, all the events that brought us to that moment came to life in my head. As I envisioned our future, I knew just how true to his word he will be as we move forward.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT:

“Reciting my wedding vows to Jennifer, which will always stay in my heart and mind. And second, hearing my father and my father-in-law give their toasts. That was an honor, to make such great parents proud.” HONEYMOON: Grand Cayman Island RESIDE: St. Louis ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE: “It’s easy to get caught up in the details of party planning, and worrying about pleasing our guests. Leave some of that to your vendors. Remember to take time to focus on each other on the big day.”

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Alred Consultants • FLORIST: Artistry • BRIDE’S DRESS: Paloma Blanca at Simply Elegant Bridal (American Ceremony); Sahil in Chicago, IL (Hindu ceremony) • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Simply Elegant Bridal. Hindu suit was obtained at Sahil in Chicago. BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: Aveda Salon —Chase Park Plaza • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Alred Sung, Simply Elegant Bridal WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: Chase Park Plaza, Starlight Room • CAKE: The Cakery • SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Exclusive Events • RENTALS: Exclusive Events • MUSIC: Landolfi Quartet • PAPER GOODS: M. Haley Design

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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real moments Barbara Smith & Christopher Grieco June 30, 2102 Photographed by susan jackson Photography

In law school at Stanford University HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: Chris proposed under the St. Louis Arch. He had over 100 red roses along the stairs and was waiting in the middle. NUMBER OF GUESTS: 200 WEDDING COLORS: Blue and Ivory SOMETHING OLD: Diamond earrings Babara’s parents gave her when she turned 18 SOMETHING NEW: A bracelet commemorating Barbara’s beloved deceased uncle SOMETHING BORROWED: Grandmother’s bumblebee pin SOMETHING BLUE: The bride’s engagement ring has a small blue gem, she also wore royal blue shoes HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT: The bride’s sister drew a custom St. Louis skyline that served as the logo for the event. WEDDING FAVORS: St. Louisthemed welcome bags full of locallymade treats FIRST DANCE: “I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz WEDDING STORYBOOK TITLE: Meet Me in St. Louis VIDEOGRAPHER: A Love Story Productions BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Seeing my dad for the first time that day at the church before he walked me down the aisle.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Getting to the vestibule with Barbara before anyone else was there. Also, watching her get tackled and knocked over during post-wedding pictures by our 3 year-old ringbearer!” HONEYMOON: Thailand RESIDE: Washington, DC ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO BE: When in doubt, go with two Ted Drewes sundae stations! HOW THEY MET:

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Soiree St. Louis • FLORIST: Ann Rabbitt of Thorn Studio • BRIDE’S DRESS: Lian Carlo, Fleur di Lis Bridal GROOM’S ATTIRE: His own • BRIDE’S AND BRIDEMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: Makeup: Rana Zoroufchi; Hair: Kim Khotsyphom, Dominic Michael Salon • BRIDESMAID DRESSES : Amsale, Bella Bridesmaid • WEDDING LOCATION: Covenant Presbyterian Church • RECEPTION VENUE: The Missouri History Museum • SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Exclusive Events • PAPER GOODS: Service Bureau

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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real moments Wendy Rosenblum & Jeremy Lieb October 14, 2012 Photographed by ksh designs

HOW THEY MET: Through mutual friends, but they really connected later while traveling with a group to Israel HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: Jeremy made a video featuring Wendy’s beloved nephew, asking the nephew if he thought Jeremy and Wendy should get married. Jeremy then dropped to one knee and proposed. NUMBER OF GUESTS: 173 WEDDING COLORS: Grey and Yellow How they personalized the event: Their Chuppah (traditional Jewish wedding canopy) was adorned with Wendy’s grandfather’s prayer shawl and decorated with fresh hops, in honor of Jeremy’s love of beer! The invitation liner and table cards were designed with a cottage bloom flower. The couple chose a day wedding that honored their commitment to family and our love of kids. WEDDING FAVORS: Donations to three charities in lieu of wedding favors Band: Griffin & the Gargoyles First dance: “Crazy Love” by Van Morrison Videographer: Boda Films BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “When we got on stage and Jeremy made a toast to all our guests. Standing up there next to him and looking out at all our friends and family—our most favorite people in the world—I felt so loved and so at peace.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT:

“Being danced into the room where Wendy was gathered with all the women in our families and seeing her for the first time.” HONEYMOON: Cocle & Panama City, Panama RESIDE: St. Louis ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE: “Create a wedding that reflects your personalities, not the latest trends. It was so fun afterwards to have friends and family share what they loved about our wedding, the things that were the truest expression of the people we are individually and the relationship we’ve created together.”

FLORIST: Wildflowers • BRIDE’S DRESS: Amsale, Town and Country Bridal Boutique • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Stallone’s Formalwear BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Amsale, Bella Bridesmaid • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: Westwood Country Club • CAKE: Westwood Country Club • LINENS: BB&J Linens • RENTALS: Premier Rentals, Traube Tent • PAPER GOODS: The Write Impression

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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real moments Sandra Kohler & John Fulton March 24, 2012 Photographed by photo video image productions

HOW THEY MET: Sandra and John originally met on a bus during a high school choir trip when they were 15 and 18. It was love at first sight, but eventually they went their separate ways. Twentyfive years later, their paths crossed again. They both confessed that they remained deeply in love with each other throughout all those years. HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: John reenacted their originally meeting on that high school bus so many years ago, with some of the original high school friends in tow. NUMBER OF GUESTS: 50 WEDDING THEME: Bling Meets Zen SOMETHING OLD: Sandra’s grandmother’s blue brooch, in the center of her bouquet SOMETHING NEW: Sandra’s two gowns: a pale blue gown for the ceremony and a red gown for the reception SOMETHING BORROWED: John borrowed a black tuxedo from his best friend DJ: Brandon Gray, Complete Music VIDEOGRAPHER: John Omoresemi HONEYMOON: Cancun, Mexico RESIDE: St. Louis ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE: “Always hire a planner for your wedding. Even though I have planned many events throughout the years and planned every aspect of my own, [Sandra is the owner of Petals Galore Floral Art] I had help in setting and striking the event, as well as a day-of-wedding coordinator. With these individuals in place everything was flawless.”

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Carolyn Burke Wedding Liaison • FLORIST: Petals Galore Floral Art • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: Ces & Judy’s Catering at Le Chateau • CAKE: McArthur’s Bakery • RENTALS: Take a Seat Chaircovers, Weinhardt, Premier Rentals, BBJ Linens PAPER GOODS: Slice of Lime Stationery

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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real moments Lauren Harris & Jamie King July 22, 2012 Photographed by stephen seebeck Photography

HOW THEY MET: They were set up by friends HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: Jamie took Lauren for a sunset boat ride and picnic at his family lake house at Bull Shoals. The ring was on top of a tiny chocolate cake. NUMBER OF GUESTS: 60 in Colorado, 170 in St. Louis WEDDING COLORS: Sunflower yellow and navy blue HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT: Since their last name is King, a crown topped the wedding cake and invitations. Jamie is a huge St. Louis Blues fan and had a Blue Note groom’s cake. The couple drank from Blue Moon glasses for their toast, since it’s their favorite beer and the logo contains their wedding colors. They connected the Colorado wedding with the St. Louis reception by having guests sign Adirondack chairs. BAND: That ‘80s Band FIRST DANCE: "Love of a Lifetime" by Firehouse WEDDING STORYBOOK TITLE: “Rocky Mountain High” RESIDE: Farmington, MO ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE: “A wedding planner means no stress! Always be pleasant to all of your vendors, and thank your parents if they helped you with the wedding. Enjoy all of the little moments that lead up to the wedding, from wedding dress shopping, to cake tasting, to making up dance moves— they are moments you will always hold dear to your heart.”

WEDDING CONSULTANT: Cosmopolitan Events •FLORIST: The Special Event Florist • BRIDE’S DRESS: Amsale, Town and Country Bridal Boutique • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Brooks Brothers, Nordstrom • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Lula Kate, Bella Bridesmaids • WEDDING LOCATION: Vista at Arrowhead, Country Club of the Rockies, in Edwards, Colorado • RECEPTION VENUE: Westin St. Louis • CAKE: Friend of the bride SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: The Aries Company, Parties and Props Ltd. • LINENS: BBJ Linen • RENTALS: The Aries Company and Parties and Props Ltd. • PAPER GOODS: Cheree Berry Paper

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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real moments Anne Shea & Dr. Jasen Gilley June 15, 2012 Photographed by kelly pratt Photography

In college, at Missouri State University NUMBER OF GUESTS: 120 WEDDING COLORS: Coral, green, brown HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT: Anne and Jasen are both big supporters of recycling and being green. So, the centerpieces were potted flowers/plants that guests could take home with them, to plant in their gardens or keep in the pots. Their guest book was a print by the artist, John Lautermilch. The print is a painting of the ponds at Tower Grove Park, right outside the Piper Palm House. WEDDING FAVORS: Centerpiece flowers/plants from Stuckmeyer’s Farm and Greenhouse DJ: TKO BRIDE AND GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Both of us just really enjoyed seeing all of our friends and family. We live in Little Rock at the moment and for four years prior to that we lived in Atlanta, so it is always wonderful to come home (to St. Louis) and visit with our loved ones.” RESIDE: Little Rock, AR ADVICE FOR BRIDESTO-BE: “We did not do a lot of the traditional wedding events like throwing the bouquet or a first dance. We just wanted a nice celebration with our friends and family. So my advice would be, do what you want to do.” HOW THEY MET:

FLORIST: Kirkwood Florist • BRIDE’S DRESS: Tadashi, Nordstrom • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Jean Yves, Savvi Formalwear • BRIDE’S AND BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR & MAKEUP: Hair-Allyson Finkeldey, Studio Branca Salon; Make-up- Andee Humphrey • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Liz Fields, Frew's Bridal • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: Piper Palm House, Tower Grove Park • CAKE: The Cakery • CATERER: Butler’s Pantry • MUSIC: During the procession, Mick Orr, a former student of Anne’s mother, played Celtic inspired songs on the violin.

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real moments Leonora Losciale & Derrick Wendling October 6, 2012 Photographed by nordmann Photography

At a bonfire at a mutual friends’ family farm HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED: In Lake Geneva, WI, at the groom’s former home. He had plans for a romantic evening by the lake, but when the weather didn’t cooperate, Derrick arranged a romantic indoor picnic with wine, candles and some of the bride’s favorite Italian snacks. NUMBER OF GUESTS: 95 WEDDING COLORS: Ivory, chocolate brown, persimmon HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT: Sprigs of wheat adorned each person’s plate and blue and white checked tablecloths gave the room an Italian/Tuscan feel. The bride and her family created paper flower bouquets and decorations. Guests signed river rocks instead of a guest book, which the couple now displays in a vase at their home. WEDDING FAVORS: Soaps from Herbaria on The Hill DJ: Tom Rogers FIRST DANCE: “You & Me,” by Dave Matthews Band BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Hearing the song that I walked down the aisle to (“Glasgow Love Theme” from Love Actually) and getting choked up because I’d dreamed about this moment and this man, with my parents by my side, for so long. Our wedding day was cloudy, but when we started to share our vows, which we each wrote, the sun shined down upon us.” HOW THEY MET:

GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT:

“Watching Leanora walk down the aisle because to me that was the best part of the day: knowing I was about to marry her.” HONEYMOON: Rivera Maya RESIDE: St. Louis ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE: “Everything goes better than you can imagine. All that really, truly matters are the moments you share with your husband during the ceremony and the time spent with family and friends after you tie the knot.”

FLORIST: Family Flowers via Etsy for the bouquets/boutonnieres; Floral centerpieces by Walter Knoll Florist • BRIDE’S DRESS: David Tutera, Clarice’s • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Savvi Formalwear • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Bill Levkoff, Clarice’s • WEDDING AND RECEPTION LOCATION: The Landings at Spirit Golf Club • CAKE: Dessert bar from Sarah’s Cupcakes • LINENS & RENTALS: Weinhardt Party Rentals

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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You’ re Invited

...to realize it’s not out of reach. ...to sweeten the deal

...to “seafood” at it’s best

…to be at the center of attention. Mandy Wieneke-Niedenfuehr • 314.342.5254 mwniedenfuehr@levyrestaurants.com • www.americascenterevents.com STLWB_1301SS_LevyRestaurants.indd 1

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real moments Cecily Stewart & Nicholas Hawksworth May 12, 2012 Photographed by abbie takes pictures

Through a mutual friend 125 WEDDING COLORS: Purple and blue THE MENU: Light appetizers and a dessert buffet at an afternoon reception HOW THEY PERSONALIZED THE EVENT: Origami paper cranes were incorporated throughout all of the décor. Cranes were in the centerpieces and strung up at the reception with purple and blue paper lanterns. A small crane monogram stamp was on all of the paper goods. They customized a guest book “tree,” where each guest signed his or her name to a leaf. A basket at the reception offered cards with a white knot on them, to show that Cecily and Nick strongly believe that everyone should have the right to tie the knot. WEDDING FAVORS: Origami crane bookmarks BAND: A jazz trio FIRST DANCE: “Yours Alone” BRIDE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Nick’s parents rented us a 1950s Bentley to take us to the reception. During that drive was the first time the two of us were without other people the whole day, and it gave us a chance to revel in the fact that we were officially married.” GROOM’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: “Seeing my bride during our private ‘first look’.” HONEYMOON: Cape Cod RESIDE: St. Louis HOW THEY MET:

NUMBER OF GUESTS:

FLORIST: Caroline Kelsey Designs • BRIDE’S DRESS: Casablanca, Clarice’s Bridal • GROOM’S ATTIRE: Calvin Klein, Macy’s • BRIDESMAID DRESSES: David’s Bridal • WEDDING LOCATION: Christ Church Cathedral • RECEPTION VENUE: Bar Italia Ristorante • CAKE: The Cup/ The Cakery • MUSIC: Jazz trio of family friends • CLASSIC CAR: Best Transportation

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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Your Reception With A View …

Top of the Met 42nd Floor

314.421.0555 • kemolls.com • One Metropolitan Square, St.Louis, MO 63102 Perfect for wedding receptions and rehearsal dinners STLWB_1301SS_Kemolls_FP.indd 1

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around town

New and noteworthy happenings in and around St. Louis

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Get Around

RUNWAY READY Designer AUSTIN SCARLETT (of Project Runway fame) will be at Town and Country Bridal Boutique at Plaza Frontenac on Friday, January 18 and Saturday, January 19th, to showcase his newest bridal collection. Appointments can be made by calling 314.991.5400.

WHERE MAGAZINE, WHERE MAPS

and the ST. LOUIS MENU GUIDE make the perfect additions to your welcome gifts for out-of-towners. Call Amy Fenster Brown at Saint Louis Bride for more information, 314-588-8313.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Breeze Blow Dry Bar

There She Blows Two cool new blow dry bars have opened their doors in St. Louis—BREEZE BLOW DRY BAR

(9916 Clayton Road, 314.692.2569,

breezeblowdrybar.com) and

BLOWN AWAY

(8815 Ladue Road, 314.932.1116, blownawaystl.com). Both salons offer blow outs, hair treatments, makeup and even private event space for your own girls’ ay Blown Aw

day (or night) out.

BELLI FIORI is celebrating their 5th year in business and have relocated to their new space on ﬂorist row at 2705 LaSalle Street.

has recently tripled the size of their Chesterﬁeld shop space—offering "grab & go" specialty cakes and break-

SARAH'S CAKE SHOP

fast items like quiche, scones, dessert breads, coffee and juice. Congrats to wedding planner who is now an Accredited Bridal Consultant with the Association of Bridal Consultants!

CAROLYN BURKE

has expanded their space to include a special occasion salon next door to their downtown location.

SIMPLY ELEGANT BRIDAL

is now offering "Ready to Go," 9" round cakes for $24.95. Each cake serves 10-12 and can include a personalized message—perfect for gifts, bridal luncheons, showers and postwedding celebrations!

THE CAKERY

(TOP LEFT) ©SEBASTIAN KAULITZKI/SHUTTERSTOCK

Congrats to MICHAEL SCHELLHASE who was recently awarded Top Selling Store Front, Top Producer For El Dorado, GI Wedding Consultant, and Top Wedding Producer for Outstanding Service and Ongoing Dedication to Clients at El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels by Karisma's 5th Annual Gourmet Inclusive Vacation Consultant Awards.

OF TRAVEL HAUS ST. LOUIS

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around town

100 Years of Weddings Church celebrates centennial with a look back at brides

BY amy zimmerman

(Clockwise from top left) Youth group members Talbot Holmes, Brett Rutledge, Audrey Lee and Lydia Baer model wedding dresses worn by parishioners during the decades at the Church of St. Michael and St. George; Lily Ott walks down the aisle in her own gown from her wedding in 1999; Sarah Martin models the suit she wore for her own wedding in 1994 (The hat was designed by Eric Javits and the suit was purchased at Neiman Marcus); Theresa Klein, Sarah Martin, Catherine Aplington and Kate Goldkamp prepare to walk down the aisle.

photos by c.j. littlefield

For the past 100 years, The Church of St. Michael and St. George has been the church home for numerous families and the site of many celebrated and cherished events. In recognition of its centennial, the church held “100 Years of Weddings,” an event celebrating the marriages that started with “I Dos” at its altar. The highlight of the afternoon event was a “Dresses through the Decades” fashion show featuring gowns worn through the years by brides at the church. The show featured about 15 dresses and illustrated the progression of bridal fashion throughout the years. The oldest gown, worn in the early 1900s, was displayed on a mannequin and a gown worn in 1931 was modeled by the bride’s granddaughter. A slideshow of more than 60 photographs showed parishioner weddings at the church going as far back as the 1930s. Guests enjoyed a beautiful and delicious wedding cake donated by The Cakery. Ann Rabbit at Thorn Studio designed beautiful floral centerpieces and bouquets to reflect the various decades represented.

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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sites to behold

Nine fabulous places BY CAROLYN BURKE, WEDDING LIAISON

1 Ces and Judy's at Le Chateau

Located near Clayton Road and South Lindbergh, Le Chateau provides an elegant, French-Country ambience; a distinctive facility accommodating up to 250 for intimate, seated dining. The Round Room features vaulted ceilings, a gas fireplace, built-in plush seating and reflection staircases, leading to a balcony overlooking it all. Their ballrooms can host a wedding ceremony, reception, or rehearsal dinner. 10405 Clayton Road, Frontenac, MO 63131 • (314) 991-6700 cesandjudys.com

2 The Restaurant at The Cheshire

After a $12 million renovation which re opened in November 2012, the Restaurant at the Cheshire offers several options for a private events and even a novelty suite at The Cheshire Inn. In the back of The Restaurant is the Red Room, which can accommodate 40-50 people for a rehearsal dinner. There is also a stunning private event space on the second floor. Guests will be wowed as they enter from the grand staircase and vaulted ceilings with the original wood beams exposed for up to 170 guests. 7036 Clayton Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63117 • (314) 575-7168 restaurant-stl.com

This hotel recently went through a $10 million renovation in September 2012. It features a Grand Ballroom or a year round Tented Pavilion; both can accommodate up to 350 guests. This full service hotel has 223 guestrooms, complimentary parking where out-oftown guests can stay. 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, MO 63017 (636) 532-5000 • doubletree.hilton. com/Chesterfield

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEATURED VENUES

3 Doubletree Chesterfield Hotel and Conference Center

WWW.BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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sites to behold 4 Spazio at Westport This versatile location is centrally located close to the Westport area and is part of a Comfort Inn Hotel. Recently renovated in October 2012, Spazio offers three large banquet rooms to accommodate special events. The Grand Ballroom holds up to 300 guests and has a traditional formal setting, the Garden Room can accommodate 150 guests which includes a covered, out door patio, and the Bistro provides a contemporary setting with seating up to 100 guests. Managed by Russos Catering. 12031 Lackland Road, Maryland Heights, MO 63146 (314) 576-0400 • russosgourmet.com

5 River Bottom Saloon This historic site was formerly the A.E. Schmidt billiards factory and stands on the original banks of the Mississippi River. It offers a warm, inviting space with a rustic ambiance. A grand stone fireplace sets off the main area of this charming venue, along with punched tin ceilings and a large built-in dance floor. A newlyconstructed patio allows seating for 100 guests to relax in an outdoor setting. The space seats 350 guests and features a private, fenced parking lot. Catering is provided by Patty Long Catering. 112 Sidney Street, Saint Louis, MO 63104 (314) 621-9598 • pattylongcatering.com

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Located in Maryland Heights near I-270 and Dorsett Road, Orlando Gardens Dorsett Village boasts four ballrooms that are updated to a contemporary and elegant look. A lounge area was added and there is plenty of parking for events from 50-500. For over 45 years, the Orlando Family has been providing catering and event planning services to the St. Louis community. 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 • (314) 453-9000 orlandogardens.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEATURED VENUES

6 Orlando Gardens Dorsett Village

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sites to behold 7 Holiday Inn Viking Route 66 Formerly the Viking Inn—a new renovation inspires a new name. Two ballrooms that are functional, elegant with a vintage feel to accommodate up to 450 guests. The Concourse is perfect for a ceremony or large reception. The 212-room full service hotel is located in Sunset Hills at the corner of Watson Road and South Lindbergh. 10709 Watson Road, Sunset Hills, MO 63127 (314) 821-6600 • holidayinn-vikingctr.hotelsone.com

8 Three Barn Farm Located one hour north of the Chesterfield Valley in Pike County. This old Dairy Farm is a unique setting for your special celebration on 16 acres. The barn was built in 1914 and has been completely renovated as an event space for up to 120 guests seated or 200 cocktail reception. It features a built-in bar, chandeliers and eclectic style with full service catering exclusively provided by Catering St Louis. An outdoor field ceremony site also available for ceremony. 20955 Missouri W, Clarksville, MO 63336 • (314) 961-7588 cateringstlouis.com

9 Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park

9 92

The East Building is the newest addition to a much anticipated arrival. The gallery is open and modern and includes floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights that offer stunning views, both inside and out. This space is for up to 140 guests seated or 200 cocktail reception. The Museum Restaurant has also been updated and is perfect for your evening rehearsal dinners or an intimate wedding reception for up to 90 guests. One Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO 63108 • (314) 655-5236 slam.org

(BOTTOM) ©DAVID LANCASTER, OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEATURED VENUES.

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5 hUghY cZ Y`Y[UbWY K=H< U gd`Ug\ cZ FcW_ BÀ Fc`` The Old Rock House is a historic building that has been newly renovated yet still holds its original charm & character. Featuring three levels and a spacious patio, it is one of the most unique places to hold your event.

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Weddings – Rehearsal Dinners – Receptions 1200 S. 7th Street, St. Louis, MO 63104 | 314-588-0505 | specialevents@oldrockhouse.com

www.oldrockhouse.com

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let’s go shopping KISS + MAKEUP Get gorgeous with St. Louis beauty pro Tami Scott's ﬁne mineral cosmetic line. Personal consultations are available for one-on-one instruction and recommendations. 314.346.8834, tamiscottstudio.com

JUST IN CASE Glitter mini-emergency kit ﬁlled with 17 essentials; hairspray, clear nail polish, nail polish remover, emery board, lip balm, earring

HERE COMES THE VODKA Pearl Vodka’s

HAVE A BALL Roll down the lane before

backs, clear elastics, mending kit, safety pin, double-

Miniature Veil and Bowtie Party Favor Set

walking down the aisle. Check out the upscale,

sided tap, stain remover, deodorant towelett, pain

(bottles not included), $2.50 per set, shopluxco.

art-deco fun atmosphere at Flamingo Bowl,

reliever, tampon, breath freshen, dental ﬂoss and

com; Pearl® Vodka and Pearl® Wedding

located in downtown. 314.436.6666,

an adhesive bandage. Available in an assortment

Cake™ mini 50ml bottles are available at local

ﬂamingobowl.com

of colors, $15 from pinchprovisions.com.

area liquor stores or by request through your

WHEN YOU'RE SMILIN' When it's the thought that counts or someone needs an “act of kindness”, Seeds of Happiness are the perfect

A TOAST Caipirinha-Lime Liqueur with Cachaca

SNAIL MAIL Wooster & Prince stationery

thing! Keep 1 seed & 1 card for yourself, pass

from Vom Fass in Maplewood. Great gift for

offers an assortment of note cards and papers

the others to those in need of a smile! Each bag

wedding party. Smaller oils and vinegars avail-

for every occasion. Shown here is a box of 200

includes 10 Seeds and 10 SOH story cards. Share

able for parting gifts at reception. Can host

note sheets ($16) and a set of 8 folded note

the SMILES! All seeds are handmade, ﬁred and

a tasting for the wedding party or bachelor/

cards with envelopes ($12) from The Designing

glazed right here in St. Louis by Mark Borella, an

bachelorette parties. 7314 Manchester Road,

Block. 7735 Clayton Road, 314-721-4224

accomplished sculptor and photographer.

314.932.5262, vomfassusa.com

Seedsofhappiness.com

BOWLING BALL: ©SHUTSWIS/SHUTTERSTOCK

favorite local beverage alcohol retailer.

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Chevrons, Quatrefoils, and Stripes... Oh My! Patterns are popping up in weddings BY amy zimmermaN photos BY l photographie Patterns are a beautiful way to add

some color and spark to your wedding. Stripes have been popular for sometime in weddings. Striped invitations, striped cakes and even a lovely striped bow in the bridal bouquet add a modern twist to your wedding. Chevron is increasing in popularity among more than just brides. The zigzag pattern is common in interior design, showing up on curtains, rugs and throw pillows. Now chevron is making its way into fashion and, of course, weddings. Chevron napkins and other table linens add a pop to your tables. Like stripes, chevron is used beautifully with stationary and cakes. The symmetrical leaves of the quatrefoil often are used in stationary. It is a beautiful, elegant way to add color and can be used with both contemporary and traditional weddings. Quatrefoil also is showing up in jewelry, in both engagement rings and wedding bands. A quatrefoil bracelet or a quatrefoil lace clutch are lovely accessories to your gown.

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Letter from a

Mother of the Bride Lessons learned while navigating the wedding waters

• BY diana losciale

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ear other MOBs, Here you are reading, in a quiet moment, as your daughter’s wedding day draws near. You have sighed, cried, laughed, shopped, smiled, planned, pondered, and maybe even painted all your guest rooms. Whether or not you have hired a wedding coordinator, you are in the thick of all things “wedding.” Maybe you’ve wished for tape over your mouth so you couldn’t’ say anything as the sales associate showed your daughter six-inch heels to wear with her gown for a beach wedding. Or, maybe you’ve wished for a bullhorn to outshout everyone who’s scrapping about where to host the bridal shower. It’s a merry melee, all this bridal bliss, and as Mom, you are probably also the bride’s advisor, approver and advocate. You have been both exhausted and unstoppable. You had no idea how much fun-work-fun it would be to help bring your daughter’s wedding dream to reality. Yet no one can prepare you for all the wonderful emotions you have felt and are about to experience on Wedding Day, including me, a very recent MOB. But I can share some of what I learned along the way. (Continued on page 186)

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ing & Que K e e —at—

The Regency

Photos ©Bolla Photography, Conner Photography, Becky Huffman Floral Designer and Ahner's Florist

Breathtaking Classic Regal

360 Regency Park | O’Fallon, IL 62269 | 618-624-4499 www.stlouisofallonil.hgi.com

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400 Regency Park | O’Fallon, IL 62269 | 618-624-9999 www.regencyconferencecenter.com

6/14/12 3:09:55 PM

The

Honeymoon Decision Local couples share how they chose their honeymoon destinations BY diana losciale

hough this decade’s B&Gs might consider an adventure honeymoon, like hiking in New Zealand, biking across old Europe or wrangling on a working ranch, it’s heading to the beach that often wins the day. Maybe it’s our landlocked location or abundance of cooler fall weddings that incite beachy thoughts, but St. Louis loves heading to the warm. Wondering how B&Gs choose their destination and juggle their schedules? Here’s the scoop from local couples who took their vows, kissed, feasted and headed out to honeymoon… or plan to do so in the near future. (And just for fun, we threw in where the bride’s parents honeymooned, thus posing the question: are there trends, over generations, in honeymoon locales?)

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Everything we wanted… B&G: Jessica and Andrew Greaves, St. Louis, MO Married: June 23, 2012 Honeymooned: Bahamas for a week Where bride’s parents honeymooned: The Smoky Mountains

“We always knew we’d go on a honeymoon right after the wedding. We knew we wanted a tropical all-inclusive and we decided on the Bahamas since neither of us had been there. And, I’m not a huge fan of flying so the least amount of time spent traveling over water, the better,” Jessica said. First she and Andrew secured their wedding plans, and then began shopping honeymoon possibilities. “The honeymoon is the fun thing to think about. You can get wrapped up doing the wedding planning!” she said. They asked a lot of recently married friends about destinations. “Yes, maybe a lot [of your choice] has to do with comparing to what others have done. You want to feel confident about your decision.” After balancing internet research and friends’ comments, they chose Sandals® Royal Bahamian which turned out to be everything they wanted. Yes, they’d go there again (but 106

maybe more food choices, please). Packing was a snap. “We both waited ‘til the last minute, until we were about to leave! Andrew usually takes a backpack but this time, he carried a suitcase and a backpack.” Why the beach? “I guess that’s the most relaxing setting you can think of. Lying on the beach, after planning a wedding for 15 months and after finally being able to say you’re married, sounds like paradise,” Jessica said. And found it to be true.

Mountain cabin or Caribbean beach B&G: Leanora and Derrick Wendling, St. Louis, MO Married: October 6, 2012 Destination: Riviera Maya, Mexico for 7 days Where bride’s parents honeymooned: The Hamptons, NY

“If we had married in a different month, like in the heat of July or August, we might have considered honeymooning at Big Cedar Lodge (in Branson) or a cabin somewhere,” Leanora said. But the day after their October wedding, the couple hopped on a plane to Mexico, a

(this page) Courtesy of the el dorado royale, ©karisma hotels and resorts; (previous spread): courtesy of sandals and beaches resorts©)

The Honeymoon Decision

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The day after their October wedding, Leonora and Derrick Wendling hopped on a plane to Mexico, a country neither of them had originally considered. And every day since their return, Derrick says, “Let’s go back there.” activities, they fell in love with their breakfast-beachcountry neither of them had originally considered. Leanora and Derrick Wendling lounge-beach-dinner-drinks-on-beach routine. And, And every day since their return, Derrick says, “Let’s they befriended several other couples also from go back there.” the Midwest. Leanora noted that there’s a whole “It’s true that everyone asks where you’re honlot going on at the resorts, like beach team sports, eymooning and a lot were surprised that we booked themed dinners, and music and entertainment that at a smaller resort. The El Dorado Maroma appeared no one mentions and you discover it much to your quieter with less night life and that’s what we were delight. Everything is so convenient. Her faves looking for…we knew we wanted to relax. Our jourincluded a moonlit candlelight dinner and a Sky masney was not only to get to the wedding but to have a sage over the water, and, Derrick added, “the 100% week of quiet following the festivities,” Leanora said. us time.” The all-inclusive idea was a given, and they’d “If we do an international trip again, we’ll never been to a beach together. So working with the definitely use a travel agent again because it’s about Travel Haus of St. Louis, they studied the Dominican convenience: the agent handles all details, all issues Republic. Then, because of all its five-star resorts, and any snafus that might occur,” she said. Where would they go options and excursions, they looked at Mexico and very quickly for the next vacation or, maybe for renewing their vows someday? chose a honeymoon package at the Maroma. Ironically, although Leanora paused, then said, “I’d do another all-inclusive…in Puerto originally intrigued by excursions, the couple chose to minimize time Rico or Costa Rica, or maybe the (Continued on page 180) spent with a crowd and though they enjoyed the snorkeling and ATV 108

Courtesy of the El dorado maroma, ©karisma hotels and resorts

The Honeymoon Decision

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Fish Eye Fun!!! It’s WAY better than a photo booth! FishEyeFun.com - 314-621-8638

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The Wedding You’ve Been Dreaming Of? Little girls share their wedding dreams BY jennifer c. frakes

“I’ve been dreaming of my wedding since I was a little girl….” is

Adelyn, age 4: “I would wear a crown of flowers and lots of bows in my hair. We would eat bread and butter, my favorite food. Then some cake and ice cream. I would invite both my preschool teachers and 17 other people.” Abigail, age 9: “My wedding would take place in the arctic with polar bears. My husband would give me a polar bear cub for a wedding present. Either that, or I will get married in a rich, famous mansion.” Mia F., age 10 “I would like to get married in a big cathedral, with all my friends and family. My reception would (Continued on page 194) 110

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©susan jackson photography

what many of us say when the time to plan our big day arrives. Is your wedding planning turning your childhood dreams into reality? Or is your wedding veering in a different direction from your vision all those years ago? We thought it would be fun to ask young girls what their wedding dreams are now. They have offered some unique ideas that may inspire you for your celebration!

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Bird accents are hatching throughout weddings BY amy zimmerman

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Couples madly in love often are called “lovebirds.” Now many couples are taking that slang term to heart and using it as part of their wedding celebration. Shelli Alred, owner of Alred Wedding Consultants, says she has seen a trend toward using natural elements, such as moss and birch branches in weddings. Birds are a fit without being the focus. “Birds can be used as accents to the wedding. I’ve had couples use bird-shaped wine stoppers and beer bottle openers as their favors. Another couple decorated the reception with lighted trees and placed birds on some of the branches. Birds work well with the natural or vintage wedding,” she says. (Continued on next page)

©nicole welch photography.com; Cake by The Cakery

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Jane Winter, owner of Wildflowers, says many brides are asking for a natural, handpicked look for their floral designs. When using trees, twigs and branches in the arrangements, birds are a natural extension of that look. Another way to use birds as an accent is with the cake. “Since many couples are using more natural elements in their weddings these days, it makes sense that birds are a popular motif right now. We have helped couples incorporate birds into their cake design using fondant appliqués, piped designs or sometimes simply as a topper,” says Erika Robertson Frank, owner of the Cakery. One of the most popular ways to incorporate birds in your wedding is through stationary and paper products, from invitations and envelopes to menu cards and napkins. “Birds in general are a theme in stationary, owls in particular,” says Kippin Sanchez, co-owner of Vellum. “We’ve had brides use birds

Bird imagery can be a beautiful and natural enhancement to your wedding. mainly for outdoor or garden weddings. It’s a nice touch as a graphic element instead of a flower or a tree.” Sanchez says birds also are in style among couples having their reception at the zoo. “Peacocks are a natural fit for a zoo wedding and they are a great way to incorporate bright colors, especially the blues that are so popular right now. Just don’t get too carried away with the birds, warns photographer Liz Sloan of L Photographie, who witnessed one case of live birds gone awry. When the couple came out of the church after the ceremony, the bride and groom were each handed a dove. There also was a cage filled with 20 white doves on the ground next to them. The couple released their doves and the cage was opened simultaneously. But the doves didn’t fly into the air as expected. “They flew straight into the crowd of guests,” says Sloan. “People were screaming and hitting the ground to avoid the birds flying at them.” Releasing white doves is a beautiful symbol of love, fidelity and peace. Just be sure to use experienced bird trainers. Bird imagery can be a beautiful and natural enhancement to your wedding and a great way to show that two “lovebirds” truly are “birds of a feather.” 114

(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) ©CINDY LEE PHOTOGRAPHY; ©ABBIE TAKES PICTURES; ©UNTAMED HEART PHOTOGRAPHY; ©RYAN GLADSTONE PHOTOGRAPHY; ©ABBIE TAKES PICTURES.

Bird Watching

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Photo Synthesis An installation of bouquets and gowns

Photographed by liz sloan and kate hayes, l photographie on location at the contemporary art museum

Styled by Shelli Alred, Alred Wedding Consultants | Makeup by Lisa Lipsitz, St. Louis Bridal Hair & Makeup Hair by Bonnie Boze, St. Louis Bridal Hair & Makeup Molly McCann and Brooke Zachry from West Model & Talent Management

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Ivory Silk Organza bridal ball gown by Jim Hjelm features Alencon Lace bodice, open back, moire ribbon and feather flower detail at natural waist, $4,099 from Ultimate Bride; “Sierra” crystal and freshwater pearl headband by Meg Jewelry, $330 from Simply Elegant Bridal. Hand-tied bouquet of English garden roses, hydrangeas, Queen Anne’s lace, stock, peonies, tulips and ranunculus by Artistry Florist. SPRING/SUMMER 2013 • www.bridestl.com

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Satin-faced organza petal gown by Austin Scarlett features taffeta ribbon belt and removable silk organza underskirt, $4,950 from Town and Country Bridal Boutique (shown with underskirt on page 16); Pronovias antique crystal comb, $130 from Simply Elegant Bridal. Cascading bouquet of dendrobium and vanda orchids, lisianthus and beauty asters by Wildflowers.

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Embroidered organza, pleated A-line skirt by Judd Waddell features eyelet and grosgrain sash at waist, $3,960 at Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique; “Sierra” crystal and freshwater pearl headband by Meg Jewelry, $330 from Simply Elegant Bridal. Bouquet of spray roses, mini calla lilies, hypericum berries and ranunculus, accented with green ruscus by Sandra Lea Fulton Designs.

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Sweetheart ball gown by Alvina Valenta features Alencon lace bodice, full-box pleated skirt with side pockets and lace detail hem, $4,840 from Simply Elegant Bridal; Pronovias antique crystal comb, $130 from Simply Elegant Bridal. “Evelyn” earrings ($81) and “Penny” cuff ($225) by Meg Jewelry from Simply Elegant Bridal. Peonies, garden roses, gomphrena, Rose Star succulents, spray roses, lambs ear and silverseeded eucalyptus make up this hand-tied bouquet by Botanicals Design Studio, LLC.

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Royal satin A-line ball gown by Pronovias features crumb catcher neckline and corset back, $1,160 from Frew’s Bridal; Pronovias antique crystal comb, $130 from Simply Elegant Bridal. Bouquet of tulips, plume celosia, dubium, croton and calendula wrapped in raffia from Flowers to the People.

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Satin A-line gown by Victor Harper Couture features a Swarovskijeweled illusion yoke and back, side-pleated skirt and cathedral train, $5,000 from Beau Monde Bridal; “Sierra” crystal and freshwater pearl headband ($330) and “Penny” cuff ($225) by Meg Jewelry from Simply Elegant Bridal. Bouquet of pin cushion protea, cyrtanthus, ranunculus, echinops pods, miniature cala lilies, assorted roses and spray roses and copper beech foliage from The Rebel Florist. SPRING/SUMMER 2013 • www.bridestl.com

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Ivory Silk Organza bridal ball gown by Jim Hjelm features Alencon Lace bodice, open back, moire ribbon and feather flower detail at natural waist, $4,099 from Ultimate Bride. Bouquet of parrot tulips, ornamental kale, miniature hydrangea and star of Bethlehem (ornithogalum) with foliage of prayer plant and Aglaonema from Thorn Studio, LLC.

SPRING/SUMMER 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ www.bridestl.com

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KRISTIN STEGMAN, HOLLYBERRY C ATERING Tender medallions of ancho chile pork tenderloin served on a bed of purple potato puree alongside southwest edamame succotash and finished with a zesty chimichurri sauce

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delectable dishes

Chefs suggest ways to be creative with the menu at your reception By amy zimmerman | photograpHED by DAVID LANCASTER

Couples are becoming increasingly creative with their wedding planning, scouring Pinterest and flipping through magazines in search of the perfect, unique touches to add to their special day. Many even are straying from the traditional beef filet and chicken at the reception. Area chefs say there are plenty of options that will wow your guests without breaking your budget. Amanda Bradham-Little, sales and marketing manager for Ces and Judy’s Catering, says that typically she raises the subject of alternative dishes with couples planning their wedding reception. Often they are concerned about how these dishes will affect their budget. However, some options are comparable in cost to beef or chicken. “Duck is an excellent option for a wedding reception. It is different, elegant, holds well and has a moist flavor. Holly Cunningham, owner of Hollyberry Catering, says that there are ways to be creative while staying within your budget. “Preparation and presentation is a big part of making the culinary experience unique,” she says. Cunningham says pork has become a superstar protein, both in restaurants and in catering. It is ideal for a reception because of its flavor, versatility and cost. She suggests using different spices, sauces and sides to bring out

the flavor of the dish. Cunningham recommends a chimichurri sauce that features a vibrant color and tangy flavor without being too spicy. Trent Thrun, executive chef for Steven Becker Fine Dining, suggests seasonal market fish as a healthier and tasty alternative. “A lot of our clients want something different. They are tired of going to a wedding and seeing only beef and chicken. With fish, you can craft elegance and get away from the norm. A fish like red snapper is light, flaky and has a buttery flavor,” says Thrun. Using local foods is another request of couples, although it can be pricey. Michael Jones, chef and co-owner of Parings Catering, suggests bison as a healthy alternative. He says while the texture and flavor is similar to beef, it typically is leaner and has a milder taste than lamb or venison. Cunningham urges couples not to try to please everyone because it’s typically a losing battle. However, you can offer variety and have some fun with the dishes you serve. “Don’t be afraid to ask for something creative, even if you have a budget. Challenge your caterer and your chef to go beyond the status quo and give you that wow factor,” she says. We asked several local chefs to prepare one of their favorite beef or chicken dishes. Here is what they cooked for us (see following pages). SPRING/SUMMER 2013 • www.bridestl.com

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DELECTABLE DISHES M I C H A E L J O N E S, PA I R I N G S Sayersbrook Farms strip loin of bison grilled and roasted; served on succotash with chanterelle and Norton reduction sauce.

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www.botanicalsdesignstudio.com 3014 South Grand Avenue • St. Louis, MO 63118 • ﬂowers@botanicalsdesignstudio.com • 314-772-7674

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DELECTABLE DISHES

FA B R I Z I O S C H E N A R D I , FOUR SEASONS Beef short ribs braised in beer served with gremolata

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DELECTABLE DISHES

J O E L I L LY, PAT T Y LO N G C AT E R I N G Pistachio and fresh herb encrusted Colorado rack of lamb, goat cheese stuffed pear, pearls of root vegetables with rosemary glaze

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DELECTABLE DISHES

S E A N M C A S K I L L, C E S & J U DY'S Pan seared duck confit with creamy polenta, haricot vert and pomegranate pan jus

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DELECTABLE DISHES

T R E N T T H R U N, S T E V E N B E C K E R F I N E D I N I N G AT T H E CO R O N A D O B A L L R O O M Broiled New England crab-stuffed red snapper with lemon verre blanc accompanied by potatoes dauphinoise, steamed asparagus and cherry tomatoes

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A UNIQUE VENUE IN A HISTORIC BUILDING W I T H I N C L S O E P R O X I M I T Y T O S T. L O U I S U N I V E R S I T Y D E S I G N E D T O A C C O M M O D AT E L A R G E R G R O U P S A N D C U S T O M I Z E D E V E N T S S P E C TA C U L A R 3 6 0 D E G R E E V I E W O F S T L O U I S S K Y L I N E A N D T H E A R C H I D E A L LY S U I T E D T O H O S T B O T H C E R E M O N I E S A N D R E C E P T I O N S

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Opening Act Cakes take center stage with a brilliant supporting cast Photographed by sarah klump and marsha white, white klump photography on location at the palladium

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Ruffles Meet Romance Cake: Artistry on Cakes Designer: Ellen Gutierrez, Bride’s Vision Wedding & Events Linens: Sitty Pretty/Party Arts Draping & Chandelier: Exclusive Events Cake Plateau: Artistry Florist

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Something Borrowed, Something Blue Cake: Lubeley’s Bakery Designer: Amanda Chasnoff & Rachel McCalla, Lucky You Productions Linens: Sitting Pretty/Party Arts and The Aries Company Tableware, Draping, Lighting & Chairs: The Aries Company Florals and Paper Goods: Lucky You Productions

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table for two Cakes & Desserts: Butler’s Pantry Linens: Palladium Saint Louis Table Décor: BBJ Linen & The Rebel Florist Dessert Towers: Palladium Saint Louis Florals: The Rebel Florist

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curtain call Cake: Sugaree Baking Company Designer: Jenny Kehm‚ Before I Do Linens: All Seasons Structure, Draping & Table: The Aries Company Floral Collaboration: Botanicals Design Studio, LLC

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The Ultimate Bridal Salon

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Suspended in Time Cake: The Sweet Divine Designer: Shayna Laiderman, St. Louis Wedding Consultants Draping & Structure: The Aries Company Flooring: Exclusive Events Florals: Artistry Florist

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Pop Goes the Whimsy Cake & Cake Pops: Sarah’s Cake Shop Designer: Shelli Alred, Alred Wedding Consultants Linens: Sitting Pretty/Party Arts Chair: Exclusive Events Paper Goods: M. Haley Design Florals: The Special Event Florist Tina Barrera

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Southwestern flair Cake: The Cakery Designer: Sabrina Torti, Proposing Dreams Weddings & Events Table: Exclusive Events Paper Goods: Papercuts & Woodworks Florals: Stems, LLC

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Au Chocolat Cake: Encore Baking Company Designer: Kristin Weis, Kristin Ashley Events Linens: All Seasons Pipe & Drape: The Aries Company Chandelier: White Rabbit Florals: Becky Huffman Flowers

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Celebrate

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Runway On the

Six of our favorite designers debuted their 2013 collections at fall fashion week

Alvina Valenta Available at Simply Elegant Bridal

160

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Enzoani and Blue by Enzoani available at Maiden Voyage, Frew's Bridal & Simply Elegant Bridal

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On the Runway

Jim Hjelm

Available at The Ultimate Bride and Maiden Voyage

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Sitting Pretty

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On the Runway

Lee-Ann Belter Available at Town and Country Bridal Boutique

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On the Runway

Rivini

available at Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique

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PearlWeddingCake.com Facebook.com/PearlVodka @PearlWedCake

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On the Runway

Austin Scarlett

Available at Town and Country Bridal Boutique

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Lessons From Reality TV Tune In, Take Note, Say “I Do”

Brides of Beverly Hills

BY amy fenster brown

“WE

BRING OUR

©tlc

y virtue of being “the bride” you are the star of the wedding day. It is all about you. Don’t worry, your fiancé knew that when he proposed. You are the one everyone is looking at. You are the one who is the princess of the day. You are the one getting all the attention. Lots of pressure being in the spotlight? For some, yes. For others, there is no such thing as enough attention. So these brides turn to reality TV, to make sure it’s not just their wedding guests and Facebook friends who will get to see them shine, it’s viewers across America. And sometimes that “shine” ain’t so pretty. TLC, The Learning Channel, seems to be responsible for the bulk of wedding and bridal reality shows. Interesting, because you learn a lot for sure, but often it’s about how NOT to act! The Style (Continued on page 196)

EXPERTISE AND PASSION TO MAKE YOU LOOK YOUR MOST BEAUTIFUL ON YOUR SPECIAL DAY.”

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Ask Anna

1@3/B7<5

Anna Post is the great-great-granddaughter of Emily Post and co-author of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Emily Postâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Etiquette, 18th editionâ&#x20AC;?

AB :=C7A E3227<5A B6/B

www.emilypost.com

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To ask Anna an etiquette question, write to stlouisbride@emilypost.com.

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big city twist

Posting without asking. A recent survey says

that while 57% of women want to share a photo of their ring on Facebook, only 18% of the guys think thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea.* Inadvertently extending an invitation.

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Social Media and Your Wedding

Q. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really excited to be engaged. Is it okay to post pictures and information about the wedding on my Facebook page? ANNA: Facebook is a great place to share your engagement and wedding news. But in all the excitement, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to accidently overshare. Try to avoid: The rush to gush. Make sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve told

your big news personally or by phone to your most important relatives and close friends before you tell the your social media world. Think how youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d feel if you heard about your sisterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s engagement on Facebook and not from her.

Q. My fiancĂŠ and I are paying for our own wedding. Usually weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the same page about the major decisions, but lately his mother has been calling almost daily to demand that we invite certain distant relatives or pressuring us to serve a particular type of meal. How do I get her to back down? ANNA: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to get annoyed when someone elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s input doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fit in with your plans and budget. Because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your future mother-in-law, proceed with caution. You want this relationship to be pleasant. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s likely that most of her suggestions are coming from excitement and a desire (Continued on page 174) to be involved in

JACK ROWELL

AE7BH3@47:;

A â&#x20AC;&#x153;Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to see you all at the weddingâ&#x20AC;? post to your entire friend list could be taken seriously by those you werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t intending to invite. Unless you mean it, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do itâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;not only could your wedding be overrun, but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re likely to hurt the feelings of those friends that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t receive a printed invitation. TMI â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not all your social network friends will be coming to your wedding, so keep planning chatter to a minimum, or create a private Facebook group for your attendants. TMI II â&#x20AC;&#x201C; no outrageous photos from the bachelor(ette) party.

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*Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health Marriage Proposal Survey in partnership with TheKnot.com: survey of 1500 engaged or married men and women, released Feb 2012.

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Anna Post

(Continued from page 172) the planning. Include her where you can and work to build a good relationship—spending ten minutes on the phone with her to share the pros and cons of your top two receptions locations doesn’t cost you anything and will mean a lot to her. As you begin to include her more, it’s likely that the demands will decrease if not disappear. When you do need to say no, enlist the help of your fiancé—he can explain to his mother why it’s not possible to include her second cousins on the guest list. If there are any small concessions that you can make as a gesture of good will then do so. If her best friend is a vegan, ask the caterer if there can be a vegan meal for this one guest. all about tipping

Q. My fiancé and I are in the midst of reception planning and the subject of tipping has come up. We’re not sure which vendors to tip, and if we do need to tip them, how do we do it? Also, should we tip our officiant? ANNA: Tipping can be a tricky question, and whether to tip or not depends on the vendor and your contract. Tipping amounts can also vary by region and are often on the higher end in major metropolitan areas, so ask around about the norms. Let’s break it into categories: ceremony services, reception services, transportation services, and professional services. Ceremony Services: Ask about the fees or suggested donations for the use of the house of worship when you meet with your officiant or the person who organizes weddings. Usually, you don’t tip the officiant, the organist, or other members of the church or synagogue’s staff. If your officiant isn’t affiliated with a house of worship, or is travelling to be at your wedding, you should cover all his or her travel and lodging costs. Additionally, your officiant (and his or her spouse or significant other) is a guest at both the rehearsal dinner and the reception. A letter of thanks to your officiant, perhaps accompanied by a personal gift, is a good way to show your appreciation to someone who played a major role in your wedding. If a tip isn’t included in the contract for any outside musicians that you hire, add 15 174

percent, or tip a flat fee of $15 to $20 per musician. Deliver all fees (or the balance on fees) and tips right after the ceremony. Prepare labeled envelopes several days ahead, and include a short note of thanks. It’s the best man’s duty to deliver them; if that’s not possible, then the father of the bride (or groom in some cases) should put this on their “to do” list. Reception Services: Nowadays, it’s likely

that your contract with a reception venue will include tips as a percentage of the entire package. Do ask which members of staff are tipped, and how tips are handled. Since tips are the host’s responsibility, make it clear that no tip jars or coin plates will be displayed. Typically, restroom and coatroom attendants, wait staff, bartenders, the maître d’, catering manager and sometimes the chef are all tipped. If these tips aren’t included in your contract, count on $1 to $2 per guest for restroom and coat attendants. Make an estimate from your final guest count and round up a little. Tip the bartenders as a group, 10 percent of the total liquor bill. The maître d’ or headwaiter is tipped 1 to 3 percent of the contracted food and beverage price, and waiters each receive about $20 or more. Tip the chef $100 or more. As with ceremony fees and tips, prepare labeled payment envelopes and have the best man or father of the bride deliver them to the reception manager or maître d’ for distribution. Musicians or a D.J. are tipped at the end of their gig and any final payments are also delivered at the same time. Tip a D.J. 15 percent of the fee, and musicians $25 to $50 per musician if tips aren’t included in the contract. Transportation Services: Limo, taxi, bus and shuttle drivers are tipped 15% if the tip is extra, and parking attendants $1 to $2 per car. Tip more for valet parking; if the valet parking is contracted, then 15 percent is the norm. Professional Services: Your wedding plan-

ner, photographer, videographer, and reception manager fall into this category. These are the people you will work with the most and develop a close relationship with. Generally, amounts vary from $100 to $400, depending on level of service and satisfaction. However you decide to style your thank you, send it personally from you as a couple along with a heartfelt note expressing your appreciation soon after your wedding day.

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Your Special Occasion Deserves a Distinctive Destination

Hilton St. Louis Downtown

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Guestrooms • Rehearsal Dinners • Ceremonies • Receptions Presenting Intimate Events Up to 80 Guests Delight Your Invited Guests with Superior Accommodations

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Guest Attire A guestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;what to wear to a weddingâ&#x20AC;? dilemma can be compounded today when weddings run the gamut from fullblown black tie to more casual events in meadows or on beaches.

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Guest Attire Chart ladies

Afternoon

Evening

Formal:

Short cocktail or afternoon dress; hats and gloves optional.

Depending on local custom, long evening dress or very dressy short cocktail dress; gloves optional.

Short afternoon dress, dressy pantsuit or cocktail dress; hats optional.

Cocktail dress or very dressy pantsuit.

Semiformal:

Informal:

Afternoon dress; hats optional.

men

Afternoon

Evening

Formal:

Dark suit; conservative dress shirt and tie.

Tuxedo (required if reception invitation says â&#x20AC;&#x153;black tie,â&#x20AC;? or dark suit.

Semiformal:

Suit

Dark suit

Informal:

Suit, or slacks, dress shirt and blazer; tie optional.

Suit, or slacks, dress shirt, tie, and blazer.

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176

ÂŠMathee saengkaew/shutterstock

Your Event & Wedding

It used to be that all evening weddings were formal, but thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not necessarily the case. Given the important nature of the occasion, guests should opt for attire thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s respectful and on the dressier side. Brides and grooms can be a big help by giving their guests a heads up instead of keeping them guessing. A practical place to convey this information is on your wedding website. You can also share this information the old-fashioned way: word of mouth. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s say the groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worried that some of his guy friends might take â&#x20AC;&#x153;casualâ&#x20AC;? to mean shorts and a t-shirt. Using a little humor, create a Web page showing examples of â&#x20AC;&#x153;thumbs-upâ&#x20AC;? attireâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;slacks, loafers, dress shirt, optional jacket and tieâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and â&#x20AC;&#x153;thumbs-down:â&#x20AC;? shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a great place to get the word out that ladies might prefer wearing flats instead of stilettos to an outdoor garden wedding. â&#x2122;Ľ

www.bridestl.com â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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T H E P R E M I E R C L U B I N S T. C H A R L E S

TURNING ONCE UPON A TIME ...

INTO

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Who is going to pay for what? How much should we save?

Talk Before You Walk Five things to discuss before marriage BY jennifer c. frakes

178

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(Down the Aisle)

Planning a wedding is such an exciting time. Yes, it can be somewhat stressful, but overall the planning period is anticipation of a wonderful occasion—marrying the person you love, with a ceremony and celebration among your closest family and friends. But what about the day after? Or after the proverbial “honeymoon period?” We spend lots of time, energy and money on our wedding day, but sometimes what it means to actually be married can get lost in the confetti and canapés. Barabara Koppe, MSW, is the owner of The Marriage & Family Institute in Clayton, MO and has been counseling couples for almost 20 years. She says many couples are often surprised that marriage requires (Continued on page 191)

12/3/12 12:41:37 PM

©yuri shchipakin/shutterstock

How are we going to raise our children?

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The Honeymoon Decision (Continued from page 108)

WEDDING CONSULTATION & COORDINATION

Dominican. And Derrick wants to get to the French Riviera. Oh, and Italy, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve talked about Italy, too.â&#x20AC;? As with many travelers, they will likely keep adding to the list.

Beach first; adventure, later

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B&G: Melissa and Corey Rentfrow, St. Louis, MO Wedding: Sept 27, 2008 Destination: Riviera Maya, Mexico for 6 days Where brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents honeymooned: A driving trip through the South

Though Melissa and Corey first considered some kind of adventure, or a trip to Europe, they quickly changed their minds, preferring a beach and a hangout to being tourists traipsing the continents. Convenience also played a major part. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A 6-hour flight to Paris really would not have been appealing after all the wedding activity. We flew to Mexico the morning after our wedding and we were at our resort by noon!â&#x20AC;? Melissa said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We both love to travel, but Corey especially. So planning the honeymoon was one part of the wedding he was especially interested in. He didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t care as much about wedding invitations but he wanted to do the travel part. And I was happy about that. So he went through books and did research and met with a travel agent,â&#x20AC;? Melissa said. As soon as they decided on the beach category, they knew they wanted an all-inclusive resort. They booked a weeklong stay at the El Dorado Royale.

Packing was only problematic because the couple spent the week prior to their wedding in nine different places (because of work, travel, his house, her house, etc.), so Melissa had to combine wedding and the honeymoon items. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was complicated, but I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget anything,â&#x20AC;? she said. Once in Mexico, the couple chose to do three excursions; it was the day trip to Chichen Itza they loved best, both being history buffs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But we could have done just that one excursion and then had more time on the beach. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something about lying on a beachâ&#x20AC;Śyou are relaxed, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re tan, you feel good, andâ&#x20AC;Ś itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s romantic.â&#x20AC;? So now that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve enjoyed an easy beachy honeymoon, Melissa and Corey are headed for an adventurebased vacation. First stop? Australia.

Globetrotters and careerists seek drivable â&#x20AC;&#x153;coolâ&#x20AC;? B&G: Mollie and Jonathan Webb, St. Louis, MO Married: May 19, 2012 Honeymoon: will be New Orleans, LA for long weekend Where brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents honeymooned: daytrip, including a major, Major League ballgame

Mollie and John started talking about the honeymoon around the time they got engaged, about a year before the wedding itself. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was probably the one who brought it up,â&#x20AC;? Mollie said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We started throwing out ideasâ&#x20AC;Śweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve

Courtesy of the el dorado royale, ÂŠkarisma hotels and resorts

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We could have done just that one excursion and then had more time on the beach. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something about lying on a beach... you are relaxed, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re tan, you feel good, and... itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s romantic.â&#x20AC;?

www.bridestl.com â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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The Honeymoon Decision both traveled, we’ve been a lot of places and wanted to go somewhere that neither of us had been before.” New Zealand sounded good and that was their plan for about a week until John pointed out the amount of time eaten up by just getting there and back. What about the Caribbean? he said. No. They’d already done an all-inclusive in Negril, and Mollie didn’t want to repeat that. How about Brazil? It wouldn’t take much longer in airtime than the Caribbean, and it would be exotic. But they started looking at actual vacation time, which they’d need during the Holidays as well as a trip to NYC for a friend’s wedding. “So when we did the math, I knew I could only take a Mollie and Jonathan Webb

few days off to get ready for our own wedding,” Molly said. Careers can throw roadblocks into vacation schedules. Thus evolved the idea of the long weekend: maybe a trip to San Francisco, maybe the Northwest. Or maybe a short quick trip over a long weekend, somewhere closer to St. Louis. Mollie hasn’t been to New Orleans yet. Bingo. New Orleans looms, possibly by the New Year, as their special celebration. “The most we’re likely to plan is where we’ll stay, someplace special, a grand hotel or a unique B&B.” Otherwise, the plan is to have no plan. Mollie was quiet a moment, then smiled and said, “I will, however, take the Mediterranean anytime.” 182

PHOTO BY DARRELL MANKIN

“The most we’re likely to plan is where we’ll stay, someplace special, a grand hotel or unique B&B. Otherwise, the plan is to have no plan.”

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ÂŠSal Cincotta Photography

Busch Stadium Boutique Bridal Event Sunday, February 17, 2013 12:30-4:00pm Redbird Club Visit with the finest St. Louis wedding experts and see all the options Busch Stadium can offer for your reception or rehearsal dinner. Register at www.Cardinals.com/events

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Surround yourself with great art and architecture!

The Honeymoon Decision LOVE THE SAND AND SUN… B&G: Amanda and David Adkins, St. Charles, MO Married: September 7, 2008 Honeymoon: Greater Orlando, Florida for 10 days (included back-to-back weekends) Where bride’s parents honeymooned: Memphis, at the Peabody hotel

Amanda and David love tropical weather, though they wouldn’t choose to live in the land of palm trees 24/7. But when it came to planning their destination wedding and honeymoon, they both thought Florida at the same time. They would forsake their beloved Caribbean Amanda and David Adkins

“David said every day could be an adventure. Wherever the car took us could work. I said fine and threw my planner out the window.”

Located at Riverside Drive & Clark Street in Historic Saint Charles, Missouri Beautiful, unique location Accommodates up to 400 seated guests Public ADA Compliant parking For more information, please call 636-255-0270 520 North Main Center, Saint Charles, MO 63301

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for the wedding guests’ convenience, and also to maximize their time-off. They had done all their homework on the internet. Following a sunny rooftop wedding ceremony at the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Orlando’s art district, the two went off on foot and via rental car to explore the city and its environs. “We were big kids. We were completely spontaneous,” said Amanda. “I did have a list. I’m a big planner, a type A,” Amanda confessed. “But David is a Type B. He said every day could be an adventure. Wherever the car took us could work. I said fine and threw my planner out the window. We had no plans, day by day. It was careless and fancy free.” They stumbled into Johnny’s Hideaway, a ‘50s Rat Pack/Stork Club theme and major eatery. They golfed their way through five different, themed golf

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courses, did the Disney parks in their entirety, and hopped over to Universal on a VIP ticket. They drove east to Daytona, then dawdled down the beach highway through New Smyrna (where Amanda’s aunt runs a restaurant) and on to Cocoa Beach. David advised they each pack light; they would buy anything they needed. Though it was hurricane season, Ike only brushed past them on its way to Galveston. “And because it was after Labor Day, we avoided tourists and throngs, for the most part,” Amanda said. “There was never an issue about where the honeymoon would be. We did throw around the idea of going to Paris but … it would then take a day and half travel time and would use up my time off at work,” she said. Europe, however, is the next frontier….maybe St. Tropez? David is thinking there are good deals in Greece. However, noted Amanda, “We will likely renew our vows in Hawaii.” ♥

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all inclusive tiny tips For the dualcareer couples, it’s clear they want some sheer downtime, even if it means getting a little sand in their shoes. Herein, some all-inclusive tiny tips. Beach or excursion…or both: You can wait until you arrive at your resort destination to book an excursion; get the info when you get there and think about it. Hotel staff and concierges will do their best to accommodate excursion requests. Menu of activities: Resorts and travel agents may not mention everything available at the resort in terms of activities. Talk with people who have

stayed there (if possible). When looking at activities and amenities offer, get the details. There are themed-dinners, contests, team beach sports, and a variety of entertainment including music… and more, depending on the venue. And typically, there are shuttles that visit shopping locations and other resorts.

Call us today for

free consultation!

Eat: Ask in advance about special food needs and considerations. Most chefs can accommodate. Libraries: Most resorts have book, music and movie libraries. Don’t pack it; peruse the resort shelves and borrow.

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Letter from M.O.B.

Memorable moments are made at the

(Continued from page 102) Take charge and let go

Crowne Plaza St. Louis Downtown Hotel…

Where your vision becomes a reality

You must steer the wedding ship quietly with no one aware that you’re at the helm. The bride has never been in these waters before and though she is technically savvy from reading bridal magazines, cruising websites online and soaking up anything else that has “bride” written or pictured, she doesn’t know about the shallow reefs and rocks inherent to event planning…you have the map and at some point, she’ll let you refer to it. So, if someone says, “Can I help with anything?” then give them something to do. Whether it’s great or small, like bringing some fabulous food to the bridal shower buffet table or making a call to a vendor for info, let them help. • Learn to say “yes.” (It’s easy to say no.) • It’s ok to borrow wine glasses, table cloths, a pashmina shawl, whatever makes sense, when friends offer something you need. It makes things easier for you and brings them into the event. • Establish yourself as Q&A Central. People—Vendors, friends, family—will all ask the Bride questions, especially as the wedding gets closer. They forget to look at the wedding website for info. Step in for the Bride because her patience thins as her Big Day approaches. If the Bride loves it, make it work.

The Bride wants a morning wedding so she doesn’t have to wait all day to get married? That’s a lovely idea, a whole new way of arranging the wedding day. She wants paper flowers instead of floral bouquets? Go with it. Oops, she’s changed her mind and wants an all-natural bouquet she saw on Etsy? Great; it can be ordered well in advance and checked off the list. She wants to wear one of TOMS bridal shoe creations with her gown? Just take a look because they actually are perfect even though you were thinking Manolos. Your bride has a centerpiece vision that you can’t get a grip on? Ask her to demonstrate and you may find she has serious tabletop design savvy! • Stop worrying about tradition, about the “norm,” about what others think. • Avoid creating situations where you’re rowing in one direction, the Bride in the other. Be a willing listener and also, consult others for advice. Social Media

Twitter, FB, Pinterest, texting, Instagram (a free app on iPhones and Droids) and texting are part of daily communication and you’ll

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If someone says,“Can I help with anything?” then give them something to do. Whether it's great or small, like bringing some fabulous food to the bridal shower buffet table or making a call to a vendor for info, let them help. get nowhere pretending they don’t exist. Use them to your advantage. • Cruise Pinterest. The wedding boards pop with wonderful wedding ideas. • Appoint one or good two friends well ahead of time to take charge of sending live wedding updates via Instagram. Work with the bridesmaids.

Breathtaking! Brilliant blooms to romantic roses… our experienced staff, including two AIFD accredited designers and FTD® Certified Designers, is dedicated to capturing your vision for the perfect day.

At our floral design center, you can meet with a floral event coordinator, who will help plan any size event. We pride ourselves in providing the highest level of personal service when planning your shower, rehearsal dinner, wedding and reception.

©martina p/shutterstock

Family

Who are these people, you wonder? When did your siblings become so high maintenance? They didn’t. They’re excited, they want to be involved (remember saying “yes “to help?) They don’t want to miss anything, and they also want to give the wedding couple a gift that will be their favorite. • Be patient. Be the Queen, smiling and clear.

For more information or to make an appointment, call (314) 997-2444.

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Letter from M.O.B.

When did your siblings become so high maintenance? They didn’t. They’re excited, and they want to be involved. They don’t want to miss anything, and they also want to give the wedding couple a gift that will be their favorite.

Encore Baking Company Wedding Cakes by Francie Valenta

Are you kidding? Call friends who know people. YOU know people. Here’s the thing. Those in the service business are happy to serve and if they can’t, they have great recommendations. Think outside the bridal box. • Need a limo but they’re all booked for your wedding day? Call a cab company.

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Friends in business equal an instant professional network

©martina p/shutterstock

©Westrich Photography

• Avoid thinking they’ll remember any thing you tell them. You know the wedding scenario by heart; they just dip into it from time to time. • Take care of yourself. Get some spa time. Do yoga. Go for a walk outdoors, often. Secure your bliss.

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They often have vans and limos, too. (We worked with Laclede Cab who got all our guests from A to Z and back in roomy vans!) • Your wedding venue may have an onboard coordinator. Excellent! Work with that person every which way. (This did not preclude me from calling a professional wedding consultant for some counsel in a 5-minute phone call one evening when I was worrying about appropriate wedding venues). • All arrangements do NOT have to occur weeks in advance. Things can be arranged; believe in the power of “last minute.” (We decided we needed floral centerpieces for more than two dozen tables five days before the wedding. Walter Knoll made it happen.) Who’s your rock?

You can have more than one person to lean on. Each may have a different purpose. • The FOB/your husband. Typically offers excellent counsel. • Your mom if you’re lucky enough to have her nearby in any sense. Full of wisdom. • Your kids. They know things so include them. But you also need your own Maid of Honor, who laughs, cries, plans, advises, and is wing woman at various wedding events along the way. Maybe it’s your neighbor of 20 years. Maybe it’s your best friend from high school. Maybe it’s a colleague at work. Allow her to be a friend and watch your back. You’re at the helm but she can be the wind in the sails when needed. She’ll let the caterer in, set up the buffet, light the candles and have everything ready when the bridal party returns form rehearsal. The FOB’s tux!

If the Father-of-the-Bride doesn’t have his own tux, be sure his “rental” fits well. Go over sleeve and trouser length; go over every button, zipper, cufflink, tie, vest, etc., detail. Do not gloss over this. A misfire on an adjustable waistband can wreak havoc by the time the FOB gets to the dance floor. In fact, do not forget about the FOB during the months of wedding preparation; he needs attention. This is his little girl, too. Keep him in the know. Seating

Do not “lose it “over the seating arrangement. Yes, the family wants to sit together. Indeed, everyone wants to sit together. Impossible. • Create a table council and get the plan done. • Ask your coordinator for help; she sees these situations all the time and can advise. • Mini-note: The seating chart’s going to

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Letter from M.O.B. morph at the last minute anyway, with some guests suddenly able/not able to attend. Ruling with head and heart

A year is plenty of time to plan a wedding. Twelve months can also make you casual. So many things happen and are decided in the four weeks just prior to the wedding date.

• Be ready to be flexible, primarily due to weather. So much depends on rain or shine, wet or dry, warm or cold. • Keep a grip on the budget. Your tendency as the clock runs down is to say “yes” to things that were overlooked or are extraneous, though lovely. Rule with the head, heart and checkbook. So, dear MOB, you are confidante,

dragon slayer, peace piper, hostess, hotelier, and control central in charge of Joy. You are fortunate, truly. The “zilla” moments are forgiven and forgotten. The romance of the wedding ritual (however it transpires) is the most wonderful, embracing, enchanting, and alluring of all celebratory events, ever. And you’ll cry again, with joy, when your daughter, before leaving for her honeymoon, whispers, “This wedding has been beyond my dreams, my expectations. It is perfect.” Hanky, please, the lacy one. ♥

LITTLE THINGS THAT MIGHT BE BIG... E-payments: (via your bank), always call to be sure they’re aware you’re doing that. Some transactions take a few days. You may be better off to pay in cash/with check. Post-wedding wrap: Have someone stay after the reception to be sure all things you want to keep are packed up and stored or immediately taken home. Make some arrangement in that regard. DIY: Do-it-yourself aspects throughout the wedding are gorgeous and reflect the B&G. Know when to amplify or leave décor and details alone; know when to call in the big guns to assist. Exclusive Events, Inc. works magic with lighting. Weinhardt Rentals has a huge array of linens beyond the usual solids, whites and creams. The florist we used, along with many others, is located within the St Louis floral Market at Lasalle and invites brides and bridal parties to come in and design/create their own bouquets. Décor details rock the reception: Include a breath taker, great or small. Maybe it’s a piece of wheat, reflecting the bridal bouquets, laid across each dish. Maybe it’s a “local favor” like the mini soaps from Herbaria wrapped and ribboned at each setting. Maybe it’s the arrangement of the tables themselves.

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Talk Before You Walk (Continued from page 178) work. “When couples are young and in love, it’s very romantic and people think it will always be that way,” Koppe said. “But it’s not always going to be the fairytale, and that’s normal. Your love and marriage will be tested. It’s how you work through challenges that can make or break your marriage.” Is it possible to prepare for the pitfalls? To learn to better deal with adversity when it comes your way? Absolutely, say three local experienced counselors, and the following five issues are ones that are essential to talk about with your future spouse to help you have a happy and healthy marriage.

“The husband and wife may have different sex drives, and sex may take more planning. Guys can get turned on more quickly, while women often need a more emotional connection. Generally, she needs to feel an emotional connection before sex, while he feels it in the context of sex. Couples have to work through these differences so that both don’t end up feeling rejected. Though it can be a difficult

subject, couples must talk about it to work through it.” How the other person feels loved is an important thing to know and understand about their spouse, said Cordray. “A wife or husband may assume that the other person feels loved the way that they feel loved. But how someone feels loved is often quite different from how their partner feels loved. It

1. FAMILIES OF ORIGIN

When talking about families of origin, it’s a two-fold category—how our childhood and family affects how we communicate, and how much our families are going to influence and be a part of our marriage. Kelly DeVere-Rodgers, LPC, says really educating ourselves about our future spouse is key to a successful relationship. “Learning how your fiancée grew up and how he deals with conflict plays out in all aspects of marriage,” DeVereRodgers said. “It can help us understand his emotional needs and his communication style.” And healthy communication is a huge part of marriage, of course. John Cordray, LPC, says there is going to be conflict in every union, and knowing how your partner communicates is essential. “Does he get quiet and shut down? Is he more aggressive, maybe a screamer?” said Cordray. Maybe he pulls away at the first sign of trouble or he fights to win. Knowing the differences in your communication styles and talking about them can help keep arguments manageable and in control. Cordray says you and your future spouse should talk about how involved your parents are going to be in your marriage, and what your and both sets of parents’ expectations are. If you have children, you and your husband should agree on how involved they’ll be in the lives of their grandchildren. “You have to separate somewhat from your families to put your relationship first,” Koppe said. “A couple should think about: ‘How do we balance the needs for me vs. the needs for we?’ Family can greatly influence a couple. It’s O.K. to say ‘We’ll get back to you about that’ rather than an automatic ‘You know I can’t say no to my mother.’”

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2. INTIMACY

When newly married, there are strong feelings of lust and infatuation between the man and woman. So strong, perhaps, that couples may assume it is always going to be that way, says DeVere-Rodgers. “Passion can die down, but that doesn’t mean sex is not still enjoyable,” Koppe said. SPRING/SUMMER 2013 • www.bridestl.com STLWB_130100_GatewayAcRiverboat.indd 1

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Talk Before You Walk could be physical intimacy, affection, romantic gifts or gestures, or just spending quality time together.” DeVere-Rodgers cited a study that showed the different needs of men and women. “The top two things men needed from their wives were physical intimacy and recreational companionship, while the women’s top two needs from their husbands were affection and intimate conversation.”

3. MONEY

Money is definitely not a sexy topic, but one that must be discussed before sharing your life with someone. Some basic financial questions to talk about: How are we going to budget? Who is going to pay for what? How much should we save? How do we view debt? Koppe suggests that in addition to a joint account, each person have their own account

with an agreed-upon amount or percentage that they can spend any way they want without asking permission of the other. “Money is power and one person should not have all the control and say-so,” Koppe said. 4. CHILDREN

Perhaps nothing changes the dynamic of a marriage more than having children. Couples should talk about whether they want children, how many, and when they would like to have them. Other issues that should be brought to the table are what you envision your parenting style to be and the division of responsibilities regarding childcare. 5. RELIGION

Religion may or may not be a factor for a couple, but if it is, couples should discuss what their religious lives will look like, said Koppe. “A couple should talk about how they are going to raise their kids and celebrate the holidays, especially if they are of different faiths,” said Koppe. She said other questions to ask them-

©kakigori studio/shutterstock

Kelly DeVere-Rodgers, LPC, says really educating ourselves about our future spouse is key to a successful relationship. “Learning how your fiancée grew up and how he deals with conflict plays out in all aspects of marriage.”

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selves are if they plan to attend services every week, contribute financially to their religious community and ethical issues regarding the teachings of their faith. HOW DO WE TALK ABOUT ALL THIS? BENEFITS OF PREMARITAL COUNSELING

This is tough stuff—talking about our childhoods, families, sex, money, kids and religion. And all while planning a wedding, with its myriad of decisions and details. “People can forget about the marriage when planning the wedding,” said DeVere-Rodgers. “But premarital counseling is your first step in investing in your life together. You must invest in your marriage, not just your wedding day.” DeVere-Rodgers is a big believer in premarital counseling and in her practice, she requires nine sessions of therapy, once a month in a year-long engagement. She then sees the couple at least three times after the wedding. The couples discuss and work through a variety of issues and have “homework” to do away from her time with them. “Premarital counseling can really help teach couples how to deal with conflict—to talk about what could happen and how to prepare and what to do when it does,” Cordray says. He also recommends counseling during that first year of marriage. “The newlyweds talk about how marriage has changed them and their lives. Marriage is not a cure-all—it doesn’t change the person after you say ‘I do.’ It takes a lot of work to be successful at it.” And the most successful couples have worked through challenges together, said Koppe, referring

to a study of people that have been married at least ten years. “The couples said they were actually happier now than they were at the start of their marriages, because they’ve worked through adversity together.” What if your fiancée is reluctant to go to therapy? If you can get him in the door, the therapist can help him see how it will be helpful to both of you, Koppe said. “The therapist

is not going to try to read your mind, tell you what to do or beat up on you. They just want to help you learn ways to more effectively communicate with the person you love.” And just as you start your life together, you may be thinking of saving up for a new home. Cordray said, “Think of therapy as an investment in your marriage, the best gift you can give your new wife or husband.” ♥

COUNSELORS John Cordray, LPC Cordray Counseling www.cordraycounseling.com (314) 252-8959 Kelly DeVere-Rodgers, LPC www.kellydevere.com (314) 267-5594 Barbara Koppe, MSW The Marriage & Family Institute www.marriagefamilyinstitute.com (314) 863-8734 Resources: His Needs, Her Needs: Building an Affair-Proof Marriage, by Willard F. Harley, Jr. Suggested by Kelly DeVere-Rodgers The Good Marriage, by Judith S. Wallerstein and Sandra Blakeslee Suggested by Barbara Koppe Mirage Photography

Vintage Suitcase Photography

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Wedding Dreams (Continued from page 110) be at the St. Louis Zoo and everyone would get to swim with the sea lions. My cake would be chocolate and 10 levels. For my honeymoon, we would go all around Italy, France and the Bahamas. Maddie, age 8 “I want to be married in a white church that has smooth, concrete steps.

The wedding would not be in July, because that’s when my birthday and the Fourth of July is. I want to spread out the celebrations, so my anniversary would be in April or May.” Molly C., age 7 “Boys are icky. But my wedding dress would be beautiful—white and light blue, with sparkly pink or sparkly light blue high heel shoes. I would change into

low heels to dance. I would get married at my church or wherever Mommy got married.” Sarah, age 5: “I would invite my family and my best friends, when they grow up. Or, if they are still small, they can still come. We would have Chinese food and lots of food from every city. Dessert would be cake, ice cream, and chocolate Oreos. We would play the Power Ranger theme song. People might bring me presents like fancy high heels and mirrors or a Justin Bieber poster so I could decorate my room." Mackenzie, age 14: “I’d like to marry David Backes, the Blues hockey player. It would be in Bora Bora. It wouldn’t be too classy—it would be a lot of fun, too.” Mia G., age 8: “This might sound crazy, but I really want a lion at my wedding. I really love lions. Maybe he could be the pianist. The lion could play ‘Ode to Joy.’ My husband and I would wear male and female lion outfits. We’d have it at a huge lodge, near a water lily pond.” Kate, age 10: “I would get married in Paris. Everything would be bedazzled—my dress, my shoes, even the DJ and the cake would be bedazzled. We’d also eat candy apples and from a chocolate fountain.”

“My dress would be just like Cinderella’s because she is my favorite princess. We would eat bacon and cupcakes. Batman will walk me down the aisle.” —Charlotte R., age 3

Molly B., age 7: “My wedding would be in Hawaii on the beach, with hula dancers and people with ukeleles and flower petals all over the water and flowers on my veil and on my dress.” Grace, age 10: “I’d wear a flowy, strapless dress and have a really tall cake with the little bride and groom on top. It would be at the City Museum and I’d marry Sean from my class.” Aniyah, age 9: “The theme of my wedding 194

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in the Percy Jackson movies. I would wear a fluffy, rainbow striped dress. It would be at the Botanical Gardens and there would be a unicorn, giraffe, fennec fox and peacock in the audience. Taylor Swift and Bill Joel would do the music. I would invite as many people as I could possibly get a hold of.” Riley, age 4: “I would wear a really, really

long dress that someone would have to carry the bottom of, like Princess Kate.” Reed, age 7: “My wedding dress would be purple with a lot of ribbons. There will be big white flower pots filled with poppies and purple flowers. There would be dogs and bunnies everywhere. It would be on a nice, bright sunny day with lemonade and even iced tea.” ♥

“I would like to get married underwater in the Carribean with everyone wearing their scuba suits. My wetsuit would be white. The reception would be in the hotel lobby.” —Abby, age 9 would be ‘Night of the Angels.’ It would take place in an enchanted garden. The colors would be pink, blue and purple. It would be as expensive as the cost of my whole school.”

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Charlotte, age 13: “My wedding will be all pink! Pink dress, pink cake, pink ribbons everywhere. I hope Justin Bieber likes pink, because that’s who I’m marrying!” Sydnee, age 9: “My bridesmaids’ dresses will be yellow, because that’s my second-favorite color. My dress will have just the right amount of puff. My new last name letter will be on top of the cake. It will be on the beach, but not too close to the water, because I don’t want all the girls’ dresses to get wet.” Lillian, age 7: “I would like to get married in space, on Saturn. There will be alien bridesmaids, a spaceship limo and yummy salad.” Katherine, age 8: “There would be an appearance by Logan Lerman—he’s the actor SPRING/SUMMER 2013 • www.bridestl.com STLWB_1301SS_LamoreRosePhoto.indd 1

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Tune In, Take Note (Continued from page 170) Network, Women’s Entertainment (or WE), and even Bravo have all gotten in on the wedding show action.

Photo courtesy Heather Roth Fine Art Photography

A Wedding Story (TLC) This show started airing in 1996, long before the high-drama variety of shows became popular, and you can catch reruns from time to time. The 30 minute episodes are always

sweet, lovely stories where we meet the couple, hear about how they met, fell in love, how the groom proposed. No big controversies here. We go through a little of the planning process with the couple, but mainly focus on the big day. Everyone is happy. If you’re into the fighting, tears, and obnoxious behavior from some of the newer shows, take a breather, tune in, and watch this classic to calm your nerves.

Say Yes to the Dress (TLC) The show that seemed to kick start the craze for TLC. Set at Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City, the show features brides-to-be, their moms, their bridesmaids, their mothers-in-law, and anyone else they can bring wedding gown shopping. It’s almost like a reality show about dresses, which is cool, with a little drama thrown in for good measure. The Kleinfeld sales staff knows what they’re doing, and

Four Weddings

Take a reality show about wedding planning, add a slight dash of game show mentality, and you’ve got Four Weddings. The show takes four brides, has them meet and compare weddings.

Bada Bling Brides (TLC) This gem of a show features a bridal salon that caters to, how shall I say, stereotypical caricatures of Italian girls from New Jersey. It’s sort of like the producers plucked one character from each of the Jersey-type shows, put them in a blender, and made them clients of the salon. Oddly, this show is filmed in Ontario, Canada, NOT in New Jersey, at the Sposa Italia showroom. The husband and wife owners work with a motto of “the more bling, the better.” Call me judgemental, but 196

©TLC

between those associates and the folks doing alterations, the brides always end up looking stunning. This show was such a huge ratings success for TLC, it inspired the network to go bridal reality TV crazy, producing more and more wedding-based shows.

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the brides often end up looking like chandeliers, lampshades, or white Christmas trees. However, for most of these women, the look is exactly what they were going for, and they own it. Brides of Beverly Hills (TLC) If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thinking this is a show about rich, beautiful people being rich and, well, beautiful, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not too far off. The very high-end Renee Strauss Salon is the setting for a show about women, most with impeccable taste, spending tons of money on designer wedding gowns. The staff is friendly, helpful, and fun to watch as they navigate through rows and rows of tulle, satin, and lace, all in hopes of finding the perfect dress, or sometimes dresses, for the brideto-be. Every now and then youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see a client who can be a bit, um, challenging, like the heiress who compared herself to Paris Hilton, wanted a hot pink wedding dress, and something similar and snazzy for the tiny dog she toted around in her tote. But the Renee Strauss crew never flinches, delivering just what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d expect from a high-class Beverly Hills bridal salon.

and mugging for the camera. His side gigâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; laughing all the way to the bank! Tutera has created a huge franchise for himself, creating fairytale-esque weddings for his clients. His attention to detail and consideration of the brides wants and needs is lots of fun to watch. Tuteraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s staff works alongside him to make these wedding dreams reality on this reality show. And while the bride might want some-

thing so bad she can taste it, Tutera knows itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s his job to reign the girls in and keep it classy. He is endearing, professional, and fantastic at what he does. Just ask him. Amazing Wedding Cakes (WE) Eye candy. I mean cake. Eye cake. Beautiful, extravagant, edible works of art are featured in a show that makes you dream in sugar. Talented

Let your Together Forever...

Four Weddings (TLC) Take a reality show about wedding planning, add a slight dash of game show mentality, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re got Four Weddings. The show takes four brides, has them meet and compare weddings. We all know brides-to-be have a favorite subjectâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;their wedding plans! The women on this show get to talk about them in detail with each other. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where the game show mentality comes inâ&#x20AC;Ś you can tell thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a teeny bit of competition over whose wedding will â&#x20AC;&#x153;be the best.â&#x20AC;? They get to find out first hand, too, as they attend each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ceremonies and receptions. Whose Wedding is it Anyway? (Style Network) Meet two affianced couples. Each is planning the wedding of their dreams. Each works with a wedding planner to make it all happenâ&#x20AC;Ś destination weddings, over-the-top receptions, even small and intimate gatherings. We spend a lot of time with the wedding planners on this show, watching them work to get the couples requests granted, small, large, or seemingly impossible. We also go along for dress fittings and other detail appointments, with the planners guiding the couple along to make sure they stay true to what they want. Not tons of over-the-top drama, but you can get a lot of great tips from this show, including how to stay within budget, get what you want, and stay organized. My Fair Wedding with David Tutera (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Entertainment, or WE) David Tutera divides his time running a business, helping brides plan their weddings,

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Tune In, Take Note many hours and people power it takes to put them together, it’s best for you to watch and dream, and use these masterpieces to get smaller, more realistic ideas for your own wedding cake. Bridezillas (WE) Hmmmmm, with this cryptic title, and the commercials with women screaming and car-

rying on when they don’t get their way, I have no idea what this one could be about. Duh! And what fun to watch! To the untrained eye, it appears the brides on this show are spoiled, selfish, manipulative princesses with a “my way or the highway” mentality. It is just so hard for them to spend Daddy’s money fast enough when others get in the way of their visions. But one might wonder, is the magic in the editing? One bride featured on the show alleges just that, filing a lawsuit saying the footage was edited in a such a way to make her look like a Bridezilla. Sorry, sweetheart! If you said it or did it and it got caught on camera, that is why the rest of America is seeing it. At least that’s why the lawsuit got thrown out.

Say Yes to the Dress was such a huge ratings success for TLC, it inspired the network to go bridal reality TV crazy, producing more and more weddingbased shows.

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©TLC

pastry chefs and bakers make wedding cakes weighing hundreds of pounds, covered in details that seem impossible to create. But they do it! Layers upon layers of fondant, gum paste, sugar and color are formed into intricate sculptures so gorgeous, you can’t believe anyone would cut into it. These cakes range from thousands of dollars to “Oh No You Didn’t” prices. After seeing how

Big Screen Brides Father of the Bride Steve Martin was touching in the remake of the Spencer Tracy Classic, and Diane Keaton got to be just spazzy enough as the mother of the bride. A cute family film to watch with your parents during the planning process.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding

Wedding Crashers Ok, not so much about the weddings themselves, but a hilarious look at a couple of fun-loving dudes who crash weddings for a good party and the chance to hook up with a hot bridesmaid. Raunchy fun for all.

Sixteen Candles It just so happens that the thing that overshadows Samantha “Sammy Baker Davis, Jr.” Baker’s sweet 16 is her sister Ginny’s wedding to an oily variety bohunk. And while we go to the school dance because it’s a really important dance they’re being graded on for gym, and hang out while Samantha avoids Farmer Ted (who’s not really a farmer, he’s a Freshman) to spend time with Jake Ryan because he’s soooo dreamy, we go back and forth to Ginny’s wedding festivities. Ginny’s “monthly bill” comes early, her little brother informs everyone that it should make for an interesting honeymoon, and she takes four muscle relaxers moments before walking down the aisle. Long Duk Dong, on a break from pushing Grandpa’s lawn mowing machine so his hyena don’t get disturbed, has a silly miscommunication with the dreamy Jake. Hilarity ensues. And when the dust settles, who is standing outside the church but the dreamy Jake, waiting for Samantha, luring her away from the reception to celebrate her forgotten birthday over a candlelit cake atop his parents’ glass dining room table, asking her to make a wish, and she informs him that it already came true. AAAAANNNNNNDDDDDDD SCENE!

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just ONE DAY LATER when everyone shows up to the reception, there are two surprise menus. I’ve seen some laid back brides in my time. In fact my sister was so laid back in the planning she was like a guest at her own wedding. But can you imagine not doing any tastings, not selecting any menu items, and just showing up to YOUR OWN RECEPTION having no clue what was going to be served? I know, sounds like fun! ♥

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dream

Funny, sweet, endearing… you get it all in this movie written by Nia Vardalos, who plays the bride-to-be. Greek or not, most of us can relate to the family dynamics and the bride getting overwhelmed in the planning process. Plus we get to look at John Corbett the whole time!

Top chef (Bravo) Ok, this one is a stretch. I admit it. But I think back to an episode where an engaged couple, clearly fans of the show, allowed two teams of competing chefs, or cheftestants, design their reception menu. Two reception menus. Let me sketch out the episode for you. The bride and groom meet with said cheftestants to talk about their food likes and dislikes. Then, a day later,

COME

true

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Perfect Finding the

Brides of Beverly Hills

Gown

The ins and outs of dress shopping BY nancy l. slade

what you would wear on your wedding day since you were a little girl. Shopping for a bridal gown can be an exciting experience—this is probably the most important and most expensive dress of your life. Your head may be filled with questions. Where do you begin? What type of dress will look best on you? And where should you go to find the dress of your dreams? Where to Begin

How far in advance should a bride-to-be begin looking for her dress? Remember, first you have to begin the search. Once you find your dream dress, you’ll have to order it. It can take up to five months for your dress to arrive. Then, you may have fittings and alterations—so

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If you're like many brides, you have dreamed about

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plan ahead. Most salon owners recommend a minimum of six months in advance. Magazines are the perfect place to start. Bridal magazines are filled with hundreds of beautiful dresses. Start your own wedding dress scrapbook and bring pictures with you when you visit a bridal salon. The time of year and place you get married will help you make your decision about what style of dress you'll want to wear. Are you having a traditional church wedding in January? Then, you may want to think about a long sleeved gown and a velvet cape. Or, you may be thinking about a destination wedding in the Caribbean where you’ll want to wear a less formal dress in your bare feet.

• Flattering on an average figure of any height • Camouflages a thick waist • May not be a good choice for heavy-busted figures Ballgown A tight fitted bodice and waistline with a full skirt. It can be sleeveless, strapless, or

with sleeves of any length. • Flattering on a figure with a defined waist as well as a figure with large hips or thighs • May overpower a petite figure The Shopping Experience

Now you know a thing or two about dress styles. You’ve paged through countless bridal

Dress Styles

The more you know about dress shapes and styles, the easier shopping for your dress will be. Silhouettes are influenced by the size and sweep of the skirt as well as by the waistline, which may or may not be defined. There are multitudes of dresses out there to choose from, but most of today’s wedding gowns fall in one of these silhouette categories.

Don’t be discouraged about setting an appointment with a bridal consultant. Look at it as having one-onone individual time with a wedding dress expert whose job it is to make you happy. Princess Achieves shaping through vertical seams and may or may not have a waistline. • Often features a flared skirt • Flattering for every figure and every height Sheath Slim and columnar, achieving its shaping through darts or bias cut. Sheath dresses are usually without a waistline or sleeves. • Flattering on all heights • Camouflages figure without a defined waist • May emphasize large hips or thighs Empire Waistline raised to just under the bustline. The skirt may be flared or columnar. SPRING/SUMMER 2013 • www.bridestl.com STLWB_0907FW_PastaHouse.indd 1

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Finding the Perfect Gown magazines and started your dress scrapbook. Now you‚’re ready to hit the pavement and begin visiting bridal salons. How do you know what salons to visit? Ask your friends for recommendations. Questions to ask a salon before you begin shopping: • Do I need to make an appointment?

• Which designers do you carry? • What are your hours? Remember that some salons will let you come in and browse without making an appointment while others will require you to make one. Don't be discouraged about setting an appointment with a bridal consultant. Look at it as having one-on-one individual

time with a wedding dress expert whose job it is to make you happy. Now the fun begins—you begin trying on wedding gowns. Be prepared for a tear or two. Try on many different styles when you begin your search. Don’t prejudge what’s going to look good on you. Your dream dress of tulle may make you look frumpy, while the simplest dress you see hanging may be the right one for you. Questions to ask while at the salon: • Who designed dress? • How long will it take for dress to arrive? • What type of deposit do you require when placing an order? • How much are alterations? • What are the cancellation/refund policies? • When is the final balance due? Veils

You're now actively shopping for your dress. Have you thought about wearing a veil? Many brides today begin their shopping experience believing that they don’t want a veil—until they try one on. The veil is that Four Weddings final touch that will complete your transformation from someone wearing a white dress to becoming a bride. Although there are many styles of veils, here’s a quick guide to the most common: Cathedral

The most formal of all veils. This veil falls three-and-a-half yards from the headpiece. Chapel

Another formal veil that sweeps the floor and falls two-and-a-half yards from the headpiece. Fingertip

This veil extends to the fingertips. Blusher

A layer of veiling that is worn over the face before the ceremony. The blusher is usually lifted over the head or removed at the beginning of the ceremony or after the first kiss. Time to Order

So you’ve finally found your dream dress— now what? Your bridal consultant will work with you to get it ordered and then the waiting game begins. Now is a great time to purchase your undergarments, shoes, jewelry, and accessories. When the dress arrives and the fitting appointments begin, you'll be prepared. The Big Day

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is ready to put on. Your bridal consultant will show you the proper way to dress the day of your wedding. Many full service salons even provide you with assistance on your wedding day. Be sure to ask your salon if they can provide this service. more tips

Try on many styles of dresses in the beginning. Don’t judge a gown before trying it on. Don’t take too many people with you when you first

stunning with the proper headpiece and veil. • Discuss alterations with the bridal salon prior to purchasing your gown. Most salons have seamstresses on staff to assist you with your alterations. Be sure to inquire about costs. • Allow plenty of time for alterations. • Bring proper undergarments with you. If you are unsure about what type of undergarments to wear, ask your consultant at the bridal salon.

Many salons offer sewn in bra cups for strapless gowns, allowing the bride to be comfortable. • When you are being fitted, be sure to have shoes that will be the same height as your wedding shoes. • Comfort is everything-—make sure you are truly comfortable in your gown, shoes, veil, and undergarments. • Wear comfortable shoes on your wedding day. • Preserve your wedding gown right away. ♥

It’s where you belong

©susan jackson photography

Don’t take too many people with you when you first begin shopping—it may be too difficult to make decisions with so many opinions. Take your mom or a trusted friend. begin shopping—it may be too difficult to make decisions with so many opinions. Take your mom or a trusted friend. • Pick your gown before you choose your bridesmaids’. Remember that your dress will set the tone of the occasion. • Don’t wear a lot of makeup when trying on dresses. • Remember to try onveils with gowns. You’ll be surprised—the most simple gown will look

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Tweaks on

Tradition

Some twists and trends on wedding day customs BY diana losciale

While “old, new, borrowed and blue”

remain intact, our B&Gs are innovating new ways of wowing the wedding tradition and at the same time, besting the budget. Weddings are more creative than ever, with all kinds of glorious twists to treat the guests and honor the B&G. FINERY

The bride is in a knee-length Vera Wang dress

while the groom is in a day-gray suit (standing in field of clover). Or she’s in a full length halter by J. Crew while he’s in a formal black shirt (on the beach). No matter the venue, the bride still wants and wears a bridal gown, however she might define it. But when it comes to shoes, she will kick off her white, cream or beige heels or sandals in favor of boots, ballet slippers, flip flops or even bare feet for the reception. While footwear is more innovative (even

including Chuck Taylors), Shelli Alred at Alred Wedding Consultants noted that the bride is just as likely to let down her hair as her heels for the reception. “To be a little more casual, a little more comfortable.” And what about the MOBs? They are no longer locked into the long-jacketed and sequined dresses of yore. “We see all kinds of things,” said Lori Stahl, wedding & event 204

©untamed heart photography

Some brides are getting individual cakes for each table and these are sometimes even part of the centerpiece. One table might have a red velvet cake and another, a spice cake.

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coordinator at The Landings at Spirit Golf Club. “Including a lot of sequins!” FLOWERS

Yes, brides are still carrying floral bouquets! Alred had a bride who looked into the brooch bouquet (where colorful pins are put together as a bouquet) but found it would be pricier than the idea suggests. However, the floral bouquet often wears its fair share of “bling” or the bride may wrap the stems in a sentimental handkerchief or piece of jewelry from the bride’s mother or grandmother to carry with her at the altar.

FIRST DANCE

The First dance, those of the B&G, the bride/ father and groom/mother, all endure. The B&G may be far better schooled on the dance floor these days thanks to pre-wedding dance lessons. “Their dance gets everyone going,” Stahl said. (One couple, she noted, had dueling pianos rather than a band or DJ.) But the new kid on the block? It’s the

Wedding Party dance, said Latham who instigated it several years ago, getting the entire wedding party on the floor together. Typically it’s upbeat (think “A Pretty Little Thing Called Love”) and eventually the DJ invites all the guests to join in. FAUX CAKE

As a money saver, the B&G can have a cake with the bottom two layers literally made of foam,

FIRST

Because Stahl works with far more outdoor ceremonies, “we see less of the unity candle, more of the sand ceremony.” It’s popular especially in encore weddings with children, to show the blending of the families. There is still and always music. It is not at all uncommon to have a professional DJ handle music for the ceremony as well as the reception. “It works out perfectly when the ceremony and reception are in the same venue. We can play any song, from traditional to contemporary,” said Melanie Latham at TKO DJs. Although “Here comes the bride” has been overridden by Pachelbel’s “Canon in D Major,” the bride still processes down the aisle and the couple recesses to music (think “Signed, Sealed, Delivered!”) DJs provide microphones for the readers and officiates during the ceremony as well.

“Images from the Heart...”

FIND IT

Table numbers have evolved. Rather than a simple “ 1, 2, 3”, the B&G might choose significant dates or numbers to identify the tables; maybe “323” is the address of their home and “1010” was their first date. Then a note is attached to each, explaining it and the guests have fun reading them, and likely browsing all the tables. Stahl mentioned a couple that used a Cardinal baseball theme and instead of table numbers, chose jersey replicas so that some were seated at the Ozzie table or the Pujols table. Another couple, who loved road trips, had taken pictures of themselves at various national landmarks and made those into table markers. FEAST TABLE

The “feast table,” more like a family table, is pulling ahead of the traditional head table. The B&G and bridal party are seated all the way around the table (or two, brought together to accommodate them all). Now seated across from one another, there’s more fun, more conversation and in fact, other guest find approaching them easier, more comfortable. It makes a nice “home base” for the wedding party.

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Tweaks on Tradition explained Alred. She does remind them however to cut into a higher layer during the cake “ceremony.” Meanwhile, there is a “kitchen cake,” which is a sheet cake that will be cut and served to the guests. Trickery? Certainly not. Sheet cakes can be just as delicious and often more economical. Stahl mentions a wedding where en route to the reception, the wedding cake was dropped. Stahl quickly contacted a baker, who had just

enough time to stylize a fake cake, deliver it and whip up several “kitchen cakes” simultaneously— saving the day! (Also, check out cakerental.com) The cupcake has edged its way onto the wedding cake scene. So many flavors, so many décor opportunities! Some brides are getting individual cakes for each table and these are sometimes even part of the centerpiece. One table might have a red velvet cake and another,

a spice cake. Look to Sarah’s Cake Shop & Catering for a dessert buffet – the cake’s no longer the limit and guests enjoy helping themselves to a variety of treats. FAVORS

Goodbye, candy. Hello, favors have evolved into useful (or fun edible) items. One autumnal bride had Merbs caramel apples at every place setting. Another did individual miniature gooey

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butter cakes, cutely packaged in the B&Gs colors. Barrels of flip flops, in different colors near the dance floor, have morphed into yet another favor. The sky’s the limit. FINALE

Often, the DJ will pick the last song and will end it on a high note, something like “Time of My Life” or “Don’t Stop Believing,” which leaves the guests wanting us to play one more. That means they’ve had a good time,” said Latham. Yet another update to tradition? Rather than being the first to leave and set off on their honeymoon, the B&G are the last to leave the reception party. And prrior to leaving, the B&G and guests just might be lighting Wish Lanterns, which then lift and sail off into the air carrying their wishes. ♥

Melanie Latham, operations manager, TKO DJs, 314.647.3000 Shelli Alred, Alred Wedding Consultants, 636.922.4778

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©lynn terry

Lori Stahl, wedding event coordinator, Landings at Spirit Golf Club in Chesterfield, 314.307.8830

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Wedding Countdown Planning Calendar

■ Discuss honeymoon plans with your fiancé so he may begin making arrangements ■ ■ Complete your bridal registry ■ ■ Select gifts for groom, attendants, outof-town-guests, and favors for reception guests ■ ■ Reserve rental items (e.g. tents, band stand, tables, chairs, table linens) ■

■ Book transportation for bride and groom and wedding party to the ceremony and reception (limousine, carriage, etc.) ■ ■ Purchase or reserve groom’s formalwear and all male attendants’ attire ■ ■ Plan your ceremony with officiant ■ ■ Purchase and engrave wedding rings ■

(Continued on page 207)

SIX TO EIGHTEEN MONTHS AHEAD ■ ■ ■ ■

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Choose an engagement ring Announce your engagement Set a wedding budget Purchase a wedding planner notebook or software Consider hiring a wedding planner Decide on a wedding style, including colors Reserve both wedding and reception sites Choose and confirm an officiant Select and notify attendants Contract a photographer and videographer Contract a caterer if not supplied by reception site Contract for ceremony and reception music Contract a florist Create guest lists Shop for your gown and headpiece or contact a dressmaker for consultations on a custom gown

THREE TO SIX MONTHS AHEAD Order invitations, thank-you notes, announcements, personalized stationery ■ Consider hiring a calligrapher ■ Book accommodations for visiting guests ■ ■ Book wedding night accommodations ■

INTRODUCING THE

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Wedding Countdown Planning Calendar (Continued from page 208)

ONE TO THREE MONTHS AHEAD

â&#x2013; Order the wedding cake â&#x2013; Purchase your going-away outfit and honeymoon trousseau â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Shop with your attendants for their apparel â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Begin your personal beauty regimen â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Make a wedding-day appointment with hairdresser and make-up artist for you and your attendants â&#x2013; â&#x2013;

â&#x2013; Mail wedding invitations â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Acquire marriage license â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Confirm accommodations for out-oftown guests â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Sit for your formal portrait â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Send announcements to newspapers â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Schedule wedding rehearsal and dinner â&#x2013;

â&#x2013; Discuss reception menu with caterer â&#x2013; Finalize arrangements with photogra pher, videographer, florist and for transportation â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Confirm delivery or pick-up times for all bridal attendantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; apparel â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Update passports and get immunization shots for honeymoons abroad â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Arrange reception seating and write placecards â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Send change-of-address notice to post office â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Plan your bridesmaidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; party â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Write thank-you cards as gifts are received (should be mailed no later than two weeks after receipt of gift) â&#x2013; â&#x2013;

TWO WEEKS AHEAD â&#x2013; Confirm number of guests and finalize arrangements with caterer â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Submit request lists to photographer, videographer and musicians â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Arrange for pick-up or delivery of wedding gown and accessories â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Make cleaning and preservation arrangements for your wedding gown and ask maid of honor to carry them out â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Confirm that best man has coordinated final fittings for the groom, groomsmen and ushers, confirmed pick-up date and time, and made arrangements for the return of groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s formalwear, if rented â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Prepare envelopes with payments for all appropriate ceremony and reception participants (e.g. officiant, musicians) â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Prepare wedding announcements â&#x2013;

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ONE DAY AHEAD â&#x2013; Confirm all transportation arrangements â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Rehearse ceremony and dinner with attendants and officiant â&#x2013; â&#x2013; Deliver payment envelopes to best man for distribution after the ceremony and after the reception â&#x2122;Ľ â&#x2013;

www.bridestl.com â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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MAKING IT LEGAL

Though procuring a wedding license isn’t quite as complicated as the wedding itself, it helps to know the rules. Here they are: 1 All applicants in Missouri and Illinois must receive a license before the ceremony; Saint Louis Bride recommends a minimum of 24 hours. Blood tests are not required in either state. 2 A Missouri license is valid for thirty days from its effective date; an Illinois license for sixty days. 3 Both bride and groom must apply in person. In Missouri, you may apply for a license at any office provided the wedding is to take place within the state. In Illinois, you must apply for and receive a license from the county in which the ceremony will take place.

City of St. Louis City Hall, 1200 Market Street, Room 127 Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: State ID/driver's license, proof of social security number if absent from license Phone: 314-622-3257 Fee: $48 (cash only)

JOE GOUGH © SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

St. Louis County St. Louis County Government Center 41 S. Central Avenue (4th floor), Clayton Hours: Mon., Wed., Fri. 8a.m.-5p.m.; Tues. and Thu. 8a.m.-6p.m. ID: State ID/driver's license, proof of social security number; if under 18, must be accompanied by custodial parent/legal guardian with guardianship papers ($1.00 fee), must present certified copy of birth certificate Phone: 314-615-7180 Fee: $45 (cash only) Franklin County Government Center 400 E. Locust, Room 102 (Union) Hours: 8a.m.- 4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: proof of social security number Phone: 636-583-6367 Fee: $46 (cash only) St. Charles County St. Charles County Admin. Building 201 N. 2nd Street, Room 338 Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri.

ID: driver's license, proof of social security number if absent from license; if 15-17, must be accompanied by custodial parent ($1.00 fee), 18 and under must present certificate of birth as well Phone: 636-949-7505 Fee: $48 (cash only) Jefferson County Jefferson County Administration Center, Room 126, Maple Street (Hillsboro) Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: driver's license Phone: 636-797-5415 Fee: $51 (cash only) St. Clair County Illinois, County Clerk's Office 10 Public Square (Belleville) Hours: 8:30a.m.-4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 8:30a.m.12:00p.m. Sat. ID: two valid forms of ID (i.e. driver's license, social security card) Phone: 618-277-6600 x2388 Fee: $32 (cash, money order or local check)

Wedding Videography WE DOCUMENT YOUR MOST IMPORTANT DAY OF YOUR LIFE

www.westviewmedia.com

149 North Meramec Ave Clayton, MO 63105

314-726-6222

Madison County Illinois, Administration Building 157 N. Main Street, Suite 109 (Edwardsville) Hours: 8:30a.m.-4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: State ID, driver's license Phone: 618-692-6290 Fee: $30 (cash only) ♥

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reception sites

108 of our favorite reception venues

CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

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Ameristar Casino Resort Spa 636-940-4300, (Ad on page 29) One Ameristar Boulevard, St. Charles, 63301 www.ameristar.com

1450

640

The Barn at Chaumette Vineyards & Winery 573-747-1000, (Ad on page 153) 24345 State Route WW, Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670 www.chaumette.com

400

350

Busch Stadium Special Events 314-345-9357, (Ad on page 75) 700 Clark Street, 63102 www.cardinals.com/events Butterfly House 636-530-0076 (Ad on page 235) 15193 Olive Boulevard, 63017 www.butterflyhouse.org

2000 1200

200

call

Cabanne House 314-289-5344 Forest Park, 63112

Carondelet Park Boathouse 314-289-5344 Loughborough and Field, 63116

call

n/a

Casa Loma Ballroom 314-664-8000 3354 Iowa (at Cherokee) 63118

850

Ces & Judyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LeChateau 314-991-6700 (Ad on page 189) 10405 Clayton Road, St. Louis, 63131 www.cesandjudys.com

400

250

Chandler Hill Vineyards, (Ad on page 51) 596 Defiance Road, Defiance, MO 63341 www.chandlerhillvineyards.com

350

275

Charles F. Knight Center, Washington University St. Louis 314-933-9400 (Ad on page 71) One Brookings Drive, 63130 www.olin.wustl.edu/knightcenter

300

200

call

The Chase Park Plaza 314-633-3000, (Ad on page 19) 212 Kingshighway, 63108 www.chaseparkplaza.com

3000 1300

Chaumette Vineyards & Winery 573-756-6574, (Ad on page 153) 24345 State Route WW, Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670 www.chaumette.com

300

250

City Cottage on Chouteau 314-961-7588, (Ad on page 22) (Catering St. Louis) 3800 Chouteau, 63110 www.cateringstlouis.com

150

110

The Conservatory 636-947-0414 1001 S. Main Street, St. Charles 63301 www.gardenwedding.com The Coronado Ballroom & Meeting Facility 314-367-4848, (Ad on page 61) 3701 Lindell Blvd., 63108 www.thecoronado.com

100

call

600

350

N 4/:: E7<B3@ N

Crowne Plaza St. Louis Airport 314-291-6700, (Ad on page 206) 11228 Lone Eagle Drive, Bridgeton, 63044 www.crowneplaza.com

400

350

call

STLWB_1207FW_Real_Weddings2.indd Crowne Plaza St. Louis Downtown Hotel 314-436-8051, (Ad on page67186) 200 N. 4th Street, St. Louis, MO 63102 www.crowneplaza.com/stlouisdt

350

call

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Dominicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 314-771-1632 Y 5101 Wilson Avenue, 63110 www.dominicsrestaurant.com

210

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Whether your party is upscale 4/:: E7<B3@ Â&#x2019; EEE 0@723AB: 1=; $!and elegant or informal and fun, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find the perfect venue in our comprehensive list below.

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CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Donald Danforth Plant Science Center 314-587-1077 (Butler's Pantry Catering) 975 N. Warson Road, 63132 www.danforthcenter.org

350

250

DoubleTree by Hilton Collinsville/St. Louis 618-345-2800, (Ad on page 215) 1000 Eastport Plaza Drive, Collinsville, 62234 www.doubletree.com

500

350

call

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Conference Center St. Louis 636-532-5000, (Ad on page 215) 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017 www.doubletree.com

500

350

DoubleTree Westport Hotel 314-212-2110, (Ad on page 215) 1973 Craigshire, 63146 www.doubletreewestport.com

1000

450

Drury Inn & Suites Forest Park 314-646-0770, (Ad on page 37) (Catering by Bartolino's Osteria) 2111 Sulphur Avenue www.druryhotels.com/content/weddings.aspx

300

220

Drury Plaza Chesterfield 636-532-3300, (Ad on page 37) 355 Chesterfield Center East, 63017 www.druryhotels.com/content/weddings.aspx

180

Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis 888-324-1690, (Ad on page 37) 2 South 4th Street, 63102 www.druryhotels.com/content/weddings.aspx The Edge of Webster, 314-962-6886, (Ad on page 226) 359 Marshall Avenue, 63119 www.theedgeofwebster.com

480

300

250

200

n/a

Embassy Suites St. Louis - Airport 314-739-8929 11237 Lone Eagle Drive, Bridgeton, 63044 www.stlouisairport.embassysuites.com

250

225

Embassy Suites St. Louis - Downtown 314-269-5900, (Ad on page 247) 610 N. 7th Street, St. Louis 63101 www.stlouisdowntown.embassysuites.com

300

200

call

The Falls Reception & Conference Center 888-538-3354, (Ad on page 113) 300 Admiral Wienel Pkwy., Columbia, IL 62239 www.seethefalls.com

1200

600

Flamingo Bowl, 314-436-6666, (Ad on page 247) 1117 Washington Avenue, 63101 www.flamingobowl.com

300

150

Foundry Art Centre 636-255-0270, (Ad on page 184) 520 North Main Center, St. Charles, 63301 www.foundryartcentre.org

call

420

Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, 314-881-5613, (Ad on page 21) 999 North Second Street, 63102 www.fourseasons.com/stlouis

500

380

The Franklin Room, 314-664-7706, (Ad on page 233) 816 Allen Avenue, 63104 www.thefranklinroom.net

300

Defining Moments are Better when Shared The Sheraton Westport Chalet Hotel St. Louis is where people gather. Share once-in-a-lifetime memories with special wedding rates that include free breakfast and complimentary parking.

guest room blocks

79-129 ropoemr

314 878 1500, Sheratonwestport.com

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CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

The Gardens at Malmaison 636-458-0313, (Ad on inside back cover) 3519 St. Albans Road, St. Albans, 63073 www.gardensmalmaison.com

240

210

The Gateway Arch Riverboats, 314-923-3047 (Ad on page 191) 707 North First St., St. Louis, MO 63102 www.gatewayarch.com

240

220

Graphic Arts Banquet & Conference Center, 314-427-6771 (Ad on page 237) (Russo’s Catering) 105 Progress Parkway, St. Louis, MO 63043 www.russosgourmet.com

400

250

Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, 314-421-1776, (Ad on page 213) 1 South Broadway, 63102 www.hiltonstlouis.com

900

650

Hilton St. Louis Frontenac 314-993-1100, (Ad on page 217) 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd, 63131 www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com

1000

500

Hilton St. Louis Downtown, 314-554-7092, (Ad on page 175) 400 Olive Street, 63102 www.stlouisdowntown.hilton.com

100

Historic Daniel Boone Home & Heritage Center, (Ad on page 222) 1868 Highway F, Defiance, MO 63341 www.danielboonehome.com

100

Holiday Inn South County Center, 314-892-3600, (Ad on page 157) 6921 South Lindbergh Boulevard, 63125 www.holidayinn.com Holiday Inn Viking Route 66 314-620-2146, (Ad on page 194) 10709 Watson Road, 63127 www.holidayinn.com

500

325

600

400

Hotel Lumiere, 314-881-7800 (Ad on page 173) 999 N. Secound Street, 63102 www.lumiereplace.com

425

350

tbd

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch, 314-342-4655 (Ad on page 43) 4th & Chestnut, 63102 www.stlouisarch.hyatt.com

3500 2000

call

Jewel Box, 314-289-5389 Forest Park, 63110

250

160

n/a

Kemoll's Restaurant 314-421-0555, (Ad on page 81) 40th Floor, Metropolitan Square, 211 N. Broadway, 63102 www.kemolls.com

350

200

Kemp Auto Museum 636-537-1718, (Ad on page 149) 16955 Chesterfield Airport Rd., 63005 www.kempservices.com

1600

800

Kuhs Farm 314-226-0709, (Ad on page 7) 13061 Spanish Pond Rd., Spanish Lake 63138 www.kuhsfarm.com

10,000 900

reception sites

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CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Levy Restaurants at America’s Center, 314-342-5254 (Ad on page 77) 701 Convention Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63101 www.americascenterevents.com

call

Levy Restaurants at Edward Jones Dome, 314-342-5254 (Ad on page 77) 701 Convention Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63101 www.cateringstlouis.com

call

Lindell Pavillion/Visitor’s Center 314-961-7588 ext. 221, (Ad on page 22) (Catering St. Louis) 5595 Grand Drive in Forest Park, 63112 www.cateringstlouis.com

350

230

Lodge at Grant’s Trail 314-638-3340, (Ad on page 115) 4398 Hoffmeister, 63125 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com

125

LoRusso’s Cucina 314-647-6222, (Ad on page 239) 3121 Watson Road, 63139 www.lorussos.com

300

150

Lumen Private Event Space, 314-241-5757, (Ad on page 145) Y 600 2201 Locust, 63103 www.lumenstl.com Missouri Bluffs Golf Club 636-939-6494, (Ad on page 200) Y 200 #18 Research Park Circle, St. Charles 63304 www.mobluffs.com Missouri Botanical Garden 314-577-0200, (Ad on page 22) (Catering St. Louis 961-7588 x221) 4344 Shaw Blvd., 63110 www.cateringstlouis.com

350

200

Missouri History Museum 314-454-3121, (Ad on page 227) (Butler's Pantry Catering) 5656 Lindell, 63112 www.butlerspantry.com

1500

300

Moonrise Hotel 314-721-1111, (Ad on page 212) 6177 Delmar Blvd., 63112 www.moonrisehotel.com

200

Nat’l Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows 314-241-3400, (Ad on page 192) 442 S. De Mazenod Dr., Belleville, IL, 62223 www.snows.org

600

400

Neo on Locust, 314-570-9218 (Ad on page 141) 2801 Locust Avenue, 63103 www.neostl.com

1000 600+

n/a

Ninth Street Abbey 314-621-9598, (Ad on page 32) (Patty Long Catering) 1808 S. 9th St., Soulard, 63104 www.pattylongcatering.com

300

250

Old Hickory Golf Club 636-477-8960, (Ad on page 17) #1 Dye Club Drive, St. Peters, 63304 www.oldhickorygc.com

650

550

ask

Old Post Office (Desco Group), 314-436-0101, (Ad on page 231) 815 Olive Street, Suite 19, 63101

1000

250

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CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Old Rock House 314-588-0505, (Ad on page 94) 1200 S. 7th Street, 63104 www.oldrockhouse.com Oliva on the Hill 314-961-7588 x221 (Ad on page 22) 4915 Daggett, 63110 www.cateringstlouis.com

600

400

150

100

Omni Majestic Hotel 314-436-2355 1019 Pine Street, 63101 www.omnimajestic.com

150

115

Orlando Gardens Banquet & Conference Center, 314-638-6660, (Ad on page 115) 4300 Hoffmeister, 63125 www.orlandogardens.com

1000

900

Orlando Gardens Banquet & Conference Center, 314-842-3316, (Ad on page 115) 8352 Watson Rd., 63119 www.orlandogardens.com

950

850

Orlando’s Event and Conference Center, 314-453-9000 (Ad on page 115) 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 www.orlandogardens.com

900

600

Overlook Farm, 573-242-3838, (Ad on page 232) 901 S. Hwy. 79, Clarksville 63336 www.overlookfarmmo.com

400+ 400+

Palladium Saint Louis 314-799-8886, (Ad on page 182) 1400 Park Place, 63104 www.palladium-stl.com

700

400

Peabody Opera House, 314-622-2500 (Ad on page 91) 1400 Market Street, 63101 www.peabodyoperahouse.com

375

Pear Tree Inn Union Station 314-241-3200 x7077, (Ad on page 37) 2211 Market Street, 63103 www.druryhotels.com/content/weddings.aspx

500

300

call

Pevely Farms Golf Club 636-938-7000 400 Lewis Road, Eureka 63025 www.pevelyfarms.com

250

150

The Piper Palm House 314-771-4410, (Ad on page 238) Y 275 (Butler’s Pantry Catering) 4256 Magnolia, 63110 www.butlerspantry.com

150

The Promenade by Westin, 314-552-5712 (Ad on page 86) 811 Spruce Street, St. Louis, MO 63102 www.westin.com/thepromenade

500

275

Regency Conference Center 618-624-4499, (Ad on page 103) 400 Regency Park Drive, O'Fallon, IL 62269 www.theregencyconferencecenter.com

1800 1000

Renaissance Grand and Suites Hotel 314-418-5820, (Ad on page 57) 800 Washinton Avenue, Downtown www.renaissancestlouisgrand.com

2000 1500

call

reception sites

9iffb[Xc\ =Xidj

Specializing in horses and carriages for all occasions.

•••• Offering romantic carriages for the bride and groom, a hotel coach for the entire wedding party or an original horse drawn trolley (seats 25) for an unforgettable evening.

•••• 636.938.1005 www.BrookdaleFarmsInc.com

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CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

The Ritz Carlton, St. Louis 314-863-6300, (Ad on page 13) 100 Carondelet Plaza, 63105 www.ritzcarlton.com

1000

800

call

River Bottom 314-621-9598, (Ad on page 32) (Patty Long Catering) 63104 www.pattylongcatering.com Saint Louis Zoo, 314-646-4855, (Ad on page 63) One Government Drive, Forest Park www.stlzoo.org

500

350

unltd.

500

Spazio at Westport 314-576-0400, (Ad on page 251) (Catering by Russo’s) 12031 Lackland Road, 63146 www.russosgourmet.com

500

250

Saint Louis Science Center 314-289-1410, (Ad on page 159) 5050 Oakland Avenue, 63110 www.slsc.org

1000

600

call

The Sheldon Concert Hall & Ballroom 314-533-9900, (Ad on page 230) 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108 www.sheldoncancerthall.org

700

500

call

Sheraton Clayton Plaza 314-719-4302, (Ad on page 225) 7730 Bonhomme Avenue, 63105 www.sheratonclaytonhotel.com

500

320

call

Sheraton Westport Lakeside Chalet 314-212-2110, (Ad on page 211) 191 Westport Plaza, 63146 www.sheratonwestport.com

1000

500

Sheraton Westport Plaza Hotel 314-212-2110, (Ad on page 211) 900 Westport Plaza, 63146 www.sheratonwestport.com

500

250

Sheraton St. Louis City Center 314-231-5007, (Ad on page 199) 400 South 14th Street, 63103 www.sheraton.com/stlouiswedding

800

550

Shrewsbury Ballroom and Banquet Center 314-647-1003 (Ad on page 242) 5200 Shrewsbury Avenue, Shrewsbury, 63119 www.cityofshrewsbury.com

300

240

Sqwires Annex 314-865-3522 1415 South 18th Sreet, 63104 www.sqwires.com

200

150

Sqwires Front Room, 314-865-3522 1415 S. 18th Street, 63104 www.sqwires.com

190

150

St. Louis Artists’ Guild 314-961-7588 x221, (Ad on page 22) (Catering St. Louis) Two Oak Knoll Park, 63105 www.cateringstlouis.com

150

110

St. Louis Symphony 314-533-2500 718 North Grand Blvd., 63103 www.stlsymphony.org/rentals

300

140

call

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CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

St. Louis Union Station Hotel 314-802-3440, (Ad on page 213) 1820 Market Street, 63103 www.stlunionstationhotel.com

500

call

Starlight Roof at the Chase 314-367-1700, (Ad on page 19) 212 North Kingshighway, 63108 www.chaseparkplaza.com

600

340

call

Stone Hill Winery & Restaurant 1-800-909-WINE 1110 Stone Hill Hwy., Hermann, 65041

500

300

Stonewolf Golf Club 618-624-4653, (Ad on page 197) 1195 Stonewolf Trail, Fairview Heights, IL 62208 www.stonewolfgolf.com The Studio Inn 636-458-0131, (Ad on inside back cover) 454 Studio Road, St. Albans, 63073 www.studioinnstalbans.com

250

200

ask

240

210

Sugar Creek Winery and Vineyards 636-987-2400 125 Boone Country Lane, Defiance, MO 63341 www.sugarcreekwines.com

300

250

ask

Sunset Hills Country Club 618-656-9380, (Ad on page 203) 2525 Highway 157 South, Edwardsville, IL 62025 www.sunsethillscountryclub.com

500

300

ask

Three Barn Farm, 314-961-7588 x221 (Ad on page 22) 20955 Highway W, Clarksville, MO 63336 www.cateringstlouis.com

200

call

Top of the Met 314-421-0555, (Ad on page 81) (Catering by Kemoll's) One Metropolitan Square, 42nd Floor, 63102 www.kemolls.com

600

400

The Westin St. Louis 314-621-2000, (Ad on page 86) 811 Spruce St., 63102 www.westin.com/stlouiswedding

500

275

Whitmoor Country Club 636-926-9622, (Ad on page 177) 1100 Whitmoor Drive, St. Charles 63304 www.whitmoorgolf.com

500

430

ask

Windows On Washington 314-241-5555, (Ad on page 178) 1601 Washington Ave., 63103 www.wowbanquets.com

500

350

Villa Antonio Winery 636-475-5008, (Ad on page 4) 3662 Linhurst Road, Hillsboro, MO 63050 www.villaantoniowinery.com

300

Xavier Grand Ballroom 314-427-6771, (Ad on page 237) (Russo's Catering) 3628 Lindell Blvd., 63108 www.russosgourmet.com

450

350

reception sites

Wednesday, February 6, 2013 or Wednesday, April 3, 2013

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ESSENTIALGUIDE A list of local businesses to make planning your wedding in the St. Louis metropolitan area easier

Vanessa Ross & Dillon Simon

9/29/12

Accomodations Alterations Bachelorette Parties Beauty & Health Bridal Gowns & Salons Bridal Shows Cakes & Confections Calligraphers Caterers Ceremony Sites Consultants/Event Planners Decorations Destination Weddings

218

220 220 220 221 221 221 222 222 223 224 224 225 225

Favors Financial Planner/Realtors Florists Formalwear Foundations & Lingerie Gifts Gown Preservation Honeymoons Ice Sculptures Invitations/Stationers Jewelry Lighting & Décor Mother of the Bride

226 226 226 228 228 228 229 229 229 229 230 230 231

Music & Entertainment Officiants Online Planning Photo Booths Photographers Reception Sites Registry Rehearsal Dinner Sites Rentals Special Services Special Touches Transportation Videographers

231 232 232 232 233 234 234 234 238 238 239 239 239

CONTENTS

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Spring 2013 trunk show calendar Meet designers (or company reps) with their new line of gowns, shoes or accessories at the following shops—be sure to schedule an appointment: ✦ Bella Bridesmaid, St. Louis 314.205.1191 LulaKate Bridal and Bridesmaid, January 18-19 Amsale Bridesmaid, February 22-23

✦ FLEUR DE LIS BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 314.721.2457 Elizabeth Fillmore, January 25-27

✦ FREW'S BRIDAL SALON 618.466.8820 Jasmine Bridal, January 4-5 Erica Koesler Accessories, January 11 Allure Bridal, January 11-12 Pronovias Bridal, January 25-26 Jonathan Kayne, February 15 Alyce, February 15-16 Alfred Angelo Bridal, March 9 Sottero Midgley Bridal, March 22-23 Casablanca Bridal, May 10-11

MEG Jewelry, January 25-26 Blue by Enzoani, February 22 through March 3 Allure Bridal, March 22-24 MEG Jewelry, April 12-13, meet the designer! Sample Sale, March 29-30 Alvina Valenta, April TBD

✦ TOWN AND COUNTRY BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 314.991.5400 Austin Scarlett, January 18-20, meet the designer! Lea-Ann Belter, February 1-3, meet the designer! Monique Lhuillier, March 1-3 Amsale, March 15-17 Legends by Romona Keveza, March 22-24 Augusta Jones, April 12-14

✦ The Ultimate Bride ✦ SIMPLY ELEGANT BRIDAL 314.241.8201 Siri MOB/MOG, January 18-19 Enzoani, January 25 through February 3

314.961.9997 Toni Federici (veils & headpieces), January 9-13 Essence of Australia, January 18-20

Please visit bridestl.com for a current list of trunk show dates.

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Essential Guide ACCOMMODATIONS Also see RECEPTION SITES listings on page 210 THE CHESHIRE SAINT LOUIS 6300 Clayton Road 314-647-7300 www.cheshirestl.com CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL-ST. LOUIS AIRPORT 11228 Lone Eagle Dr. 314-291-6700 www.crowneplaza.com Crowne Plaza Downtown St. Louis 200 North Fourth Street 314-436-8051 www.crowneplaza.com/stlouisdt DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 16225 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield 636-532-5000 www.doubletreechesterfield.com DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 1000 Eastport Plaza Drive, Collinsville 618-345-2800 www.doubletreecollinsville.com DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 1973 CraigshireRoad, Westport 314-434-0100 www.doubletreewestport.com DRURY INN & SUITES I-44 and Hampton Avenue 866-377-2034 www.druryhotels.com DRURY PLAZA CHESTERFIELD 355 Chesterfield Center East 866-377-2034 www.druryhotels.com DRURY PLAZA HOTEL-ST. LOUIS 2 South 4th Sreet, Downtown 866-377-2034 www.druryhotels.com EMBASSY SUITES ST. LOUIS AIRPORT 11237 Lone Eagle Drive 314-739-8929 www.stlouisairport.embassysuites.com EMBASSY SUITES ST. LOUIS – DOWTOWN 610 N. 7th St. Downtown St. Louis 314-678-2904 www.stlouisdowntown.embassysuites.com FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SAINT LOUIS 999 North Second Street, 63102 314-881-5800 www.fourseasons.com/stlouis HILTON GARDEN INN 360 Regency Park, O’Fallon, IL 618-624-4499 www.stlouisofallonil.hgi.com

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HILTON ST. LOUIS AT THE BALLPARK 1 South Broadway 314-421-1776 www.hiltonstlouis.com HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS RIVERFRONT 4th & Chestnut, Downtown 314-655-1234 www.stlouisarch.hyatt.com LODGE AT GRANT’S TRAIL 4398 Hoffmeister Ave., Lemay 314-638-3340 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com MOONRISE HOTEL 6177 Delmar Blvd. 314-721-1111 www.moonrisehotel.com PEAR TREE INN UNION STATION 2211 Market Street, Downtown 866-377-2024 www.druryhotels.cm THE RITZ-CARLTON ST. LOUIS 100 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton 314-863-6300 www.ritzcarlton.com SEVEN GABLES INN 26 N. Meramec 314-863-8400 www.sevengablesinn.com SHERATON CLAYTON PLAZA 7730 Bonhomme Avenue 314-863-0400 www.sheratonclaytonhotel.com SHERATON ST. LOUIS CITY CENTER 400 South 14th Street 314-231-5007 www.sheratonstlouiscitycenter.com/weddings SHERATON WESTPORT PLAZA & LAKESIDE CHALET 314-878-1500 www.sheratonwestport.com WESTIN ST. LOUIS 811 Spruce Street, Downtown 314-621-2000 www.westin.com

ALTERATIONS MONTELEONE’S FINE TAILORING 10285 Clayton Road 314-991-1933

BACHELORETTE PARTIES/ BRIDAL SHOWERS BIG DADDY’S 118 Morgan Street 314-621-6700 www.bigdaddystl.com

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CHARLES P. STANLEY CIGAR CO. 1000 Washington Ave. 314-436-3500 www.stanleycigarco.com FLAMINGO BOWL 1117 Washington Avenue, Downtown 314-436-6666 www.flamingobowl.net

BEAUTY & HEALTH american laser skincare 122 Hilltown Village Center Chesterfield, MO 63017 636-489-2633 www.americanlaser.com BONNIE BOZE 314-440-8221 www.bonnieboze.com DEBBIE WATSON HAIR & MAKEUP 314-608-9001 www.dwatsonhairandmakeup.com EMILY MILLER 314.780.8247 www.emily-miller.com HAIR BY CHRISSY 636-751-8180 www.hairbychrissy.com It Works Global 219-851-6496 www.Samanthadanielson.myitworks.com LOOKS BY LISA 314-229-1964 www.looksbylisa.com OC TAN 2 U 5350 Devonshire 314-808-1680 www.octan2ustl.com Pixies Hair Design 2709 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood 314-605-8417 www.pixieshairdesign.com SNS MAKEUP 2134 GRAYSTONE DRIVE 314-488-8999 www.facebook.com/snsmakeup ST. LOUIS BRIDAL HAIR & MAKEUP www.stlouisbridalhairandmakeup.com TAMI SCOTT MAKEUP & HAIR STUDIO 2027 South 11th Street, Soulard 314-346-8834 www.tamiscottstudio.com

BRIDAL GOWNS & SALONS BELLA BRIDESMAID 13428 Clayton Road 314-205-1191 www.bellabridesmaid.com BERRYBRIDGE 9904 Clayton Road 314- 997-1439 www.berrybridgebridal.com BLUSHING BRIDE 4632 Illinois Street Fairview Heights, IL 618-257-7600 www.blushingbrideshop.com FLEUR DE LIS BRIDAL BOUTIQUE, LLC 8109 Maryland Avenue, Clayton 314-721-2457 www.fleurdelisbridal.com FREW’S BRIDAL SALON 305 Piasa St. Alton, IL 877-274-3321 www.bestbridalprices.com SIMPLY ELEGANT BRIDAL 1004 Olive Street, Downtown 314-241-8201 www.simplyelegantbridalstl.com TOWN AND COUNTRY BRIDAL BOUTIQUE Plaza Frontenac 314-991-5400 www.townandcountrybride.com THE ULTIMATE BRIDE 1115 S. Big Bend Blvd. 314-961-9997 www.theultimatebride.com WEDDING GALLERY COUTURE SALON 801 North 2nd Street, St. Charles 636-724-9009 www.weddinggallerycouture.com

7HAT HAPPENS IN 3HUTTER"OOTH STAYS IN 3HUTTER"OOTH

BRIDAL SHOWS WEDDING CONNECTION 2013 Sunday, January 13, 2013, 1-4:30pm Chase Park Plaza 314-588-8313 for advanced reservations www.bridestl.com BUSCH STADIUM BOUTIQUE BRIDAL EVENT Sunday, February 17, 2013 Redbird Club Register at www.Cardinals.com/events A TASTE OF THE FALLS — BRIDAL DINNER SHOW Wednesday, February 6, 2013 & Wednesday, April 3, 2013 Doors open at 6:00pm The Falls Reception and Conference Center Columbia, IL Reservations: 888-538-7778 www.seethefalls.com

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Essential Guide CAKES & CONFECTIONS Also see SPECIAL TOUCHES ARTISTRY ON CAKES 507 Sherman St., Belleville, IL 618-355-0000 www.artistryoncakes.com THE CAKERY 1420 Tamm Ave., Dogtown 314-647-6000 www.thecakerybakery.net Cold Stone Creamery 3228 Green Mount Crossing Drive, Shiloh, IL 2100 Troy Road, Suite 101, Edwardsville, IL 320 South Kirkwood Road, Suite 103, Kirkwood #7 Ronnie’s Plaza, St. Louis 618-567-6000 www.coldstone-rockymountaincatering.com THE CUP 28 Maryland Plaza, Central West End 314-367-6111 1057 Century Drive, Edwardsville, IL 618-656-2287 www.cravethecup.com ENCORE BAKING COMPANY 2730 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood 314-832-4303 www.encorebaking.com

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LUBELEY’S BAKERY & DELI, INC. 7815 Watson Rd., Shrewsbury 314-961-7160 www.lubeleysbakery.com NADOZ EURO BAKERY & CAFE Coronado Ballroom Location 3701 Lindell Boulevard 314-446-6800 #12 The Boulevard St. Louis, Brentwood 314-726-3100 www.nadozcafe.com SARAH’S CAKE SHOP & CATERING CO. 10 Clarkson Wilson Centre, Chesterfield 636-728-1140 www.sarahscafestl.com SUGAREE BAKING CO. 1242 Tamm Ave 314-645-5496 www.sugareebaking.com The Sweet Divine 4521 S. Kingshighway Blvd. 636-942-2900 www.thesweetdivine.com

CALLIGRAPHERS CALLIGRAPHICS 636-441-7225 www.calligraphics.info

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CATERERS Also see REHEARSAL DINNER on page 234 and the RECEPTION SITES grid on page 210. Please note that many of the restaurants listed here may also be able to help you with small, intimate wedding receptions. Artistic Affairs 314-918-0003 www.artisticaffairscatering.com BUTLER’S PANTRY 314-664-7680 www.butlerspantry.com CATERING BY ORLANDOS 4300 Hoffmeister, 314-638-6660 8352 Watson Road, 314-842-3316 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza, 314-453-9000 www.orlandogardens.com CATERING ST. LOUIS 314-961-7588 x221 www.cateringstlouis.com CES & JUDY'S CATERING 314-991-6700 www.cesandjudys.com GREGORY’S CREATIVE CUISINE 314-481-4481 www.gregoryscreativecuisine.com

Local Harvest Old Post Office Building 815 Olive Street (at the corner of Locust & 9th) 314-241-3196 www.localharvestcafe.com

314.458.5463 • simchasevents.com •

simchasevents

Photography by Tricia Porter Photography.

HOLLYBERRY CATERING 284 East Avenue 314-968-9239 www.hollyberrycatering.com

creating11/21/12 unforgettable memories 3:16:52 PM

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LO RUSSO’S CUCINA 3121 Watson Road 314-647-6222 www.lorussos.com PAIRINGS A CATERING COMPANY 1013 McCausland Ave. 314-644-6800 www.pairingscateringstl.com THE PASTA HOUSE COMPANY CATERING 2200 59th Street 314-644-1400 www.thepastahouse.com/catering/ PATTY LONG CATERING 1808 S. Ninth, Soulard 314-621-9598 www.pattylongcatering.com

Wildflowers

RUSSO’S GOURMET CATERING 9904 Page Avenue 314-427-6771 www.russosgroumet.com

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Essential Guide STEVEN BECKER FINE DINING 3701 Lindell Boulevard 314-367-4848 www.stevenbeckerfd.com VILLA FAROTTO 636-519-0048 www.villafarotto.com ZIA’S 5256 Wilson at Edwards on The Hill 314-776-0020 www.zias.com

CEREMONY SITES See RECEPTION SITES listings on page 210.

CONSULTANTS & EVENT PLANNERS ABSOLUTELY IN 314-315-1775 www.absolutelyin.com ALRED WEDDING CONSULTANTS, INC. 636-922-4778 www.alredweddingconsultants.com BEFORE I DO 314-640-2123 www.beforeidostl.com

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nly Traube Tent can deliver a temporary venue that makes a permanent impression.

Bliss Honeymoons and Destination Weddings 314-298-9878 www.blisshoneymoons.com BRIDE’S VISION WEDDINGS AND EVENTS 314-580-2381 www.bridesvision.com CAROLYN BURKE – WEDDING LIAISON 314-821-4844 www.weddingliaison.com COSMOPOLITAN EVENTS 314-249-9107 www.cosmopolitanevents.com COUTURE FLORAL AND EVENTS 314-494-6610 www.cfloral.com DISHY EVENT PLANNING 314-246-9148 www.dishyeventplanning.com DIVINE EVENTS, LLC 314-669-5933 www.mydivineevents.com KATE & CO. 314-403-2018 www.kateandcollc.com

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KRISTIN ASHLEY EVENTS 618-946-0936 www.kristinashleyevents.com

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Bride’s Vision Weddings & Events

LUCKY YOU 314-210-7764 www.luckyyoustl.com PLUME EVENTS 314-814-7637 www.plumeeventplanning.com

Wedding planning, design and coordination

PROPOSING DREAMS 888-781-9321 www.proposingdreams.com SIMCHA’S EVENTS 314-458-5463 www.simchasevents.com SIMPLY AND FOREVER 314-809-9870 www.simplyandforever.com ST. LOUIS WEDDING CONSULTANTS 636-236-9359 www.stlweddingconsultants.net WEDDINGS BY RENEE 314-616-4600 www.stlweddingsbyrenee.com

Beautifully designed weddings, exquisitely implemented

Available for travel Technical Advisor & Wedding Planner In The George Clooney Movie “Up In The Air”

314-580-2381 www.bridesvision.com ellen@bridesvision.com

White House Weddings & Events 314-607-7077 www.whitehousestl.com

DECORATIONS HI HO HELIO 715 N. New Ballas Road, Creve Coeur 314-872-7711 www.hihohelio.com

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PARTIES & PROPS LTD. 2622 Rock Hill Industrial Court, Rock Hill 314-963-0880 www.partiesandprops.com PARTY CITY 10861 Old Halls Ferry Road, St. Louis 314-867-6850 10790 Sunset Hills Plaza, St. Louis 314-821-8580 9612 Olive Boulevard, Olivette 314-692-0996 13952 Manchester Road, Ballwin 636-207-8188 15425 Manchester Road, Ballwin 636-227-3558 2560 Lemay Ferry Road, St. Louis 314-892-2117 9815 Watson Road, St. Louis 314-909-0552 www.partycity.com

memoriesareforever.com

• Conveniently located in the heart of Clayton • On site indoor & outdoor ceremony options • Aﬀordable custom wedding packages

DESTINATION WEDDINGS Bliss Honeymoons and Destination Weddings 314-298-9878 www.blisshoneymoons.com

• Experienced & dedicated wedding specialist • Special room rates for your out of town guests Call our wedding specialist at 314-719-4302 to discuss your wedding vision! www.sheratonclayton.com • bmccracken@sheratonclayton.com

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Essential Guide Destination Beach Bride 314-422-3308 Facebook.com/DestinationBeachBride TRAVEL HAUS OF ST. LOUIS 11231 Concord Village Ave., 63123 314-842-7313 www.travelhausstlouis.com

FAVORS See CAKES & CONFECTIONS, GIFTS AND STATIONERS THE CUP 28 Maryland Plaza, Central West End 314-367-6111 1057 Century Drive, Edwardsville, IL 618-656-2287 www.cravethecup.com GIFTS 636-458-2439 www.giftsstlouis.com GOODIES FOR GUESTS 314-422-0974 www.goodiesforguests.com HOLLYBERRY BAKING 284 East Avenue 314-968-9239 www.hollyberrybaking.com

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POPTIONS! 1580 S. Lindbergh Blvd. - Frontenac 314-997-0441 www.poptionspopcorn.com

FINANCIAL PLANNER/REALTORS I Take This Home 314.406.6848 Facebook.com/itakethishome

FLORISTS ARTISTRY 2734 LaSalle Street, St. Louis 314-772-1301 www.artistryflorist.com BECKY HUFFMAN FLOWERS 314-368-7760 618-281-7091 www.beckyhuffmanflowers.com

For your next social event, wedding, reception, or business meeting, consider The Edge of Webster, a new modern meeting and banquet center that can accommodate up to 200 people. Located on the exquisitely landscaped Owen Ridge Campus on Marshall Avenue just east of Brentwood Blvd. in Webster Groves.

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BELLI FIORI窶認LORAL DESIGN STUDIO 2705 LaSalle Street 314-776-2200 www.bellifioristl.com Botanicals Design Studio 3014 South Grand Ave 314-772-7674 www.botanicalsdesignstudio.com

www.bridestl.com 窶｢ SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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BUSE’S FLOWER & GIFT SHOP 333 First Capitol Drive, St. Charles 636-724-0148 www.busesflowershop.com COUTURE FLORAL AND EVENTS 314-494-6610 www.cfloral.com THE CRIMSON PETAL 314-578-5363 www.thecrimsonpetal.net ELEGANT CELEBRATIONS 629 North New Ballas Road, Suite 208 314-993-1717 225 West Main St, Collinsville 618-344-1901 www.elegantcelebrationsstl.com FESTIVE ATMOSPHERES 8314 Olive 314-481-1501 www.festivatmospheres.com FLOWERS TO THE PEOPLE 2317 Cherokee 314-762-0422 www.flowerstothepeople.biz LES BOUQUETS 7905 Big Bend (Dale entrance), Webster Groves 314-395-8335 www.lesbouquets.com LUCKY YOU 314-210-7764 www.luckyyoustl.com

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Innovating the planning experience

THE REBEL FLORIST 314.962.3232 www.therebelflorist.com

Photo Credit: Zettl Photography

R W DESIGNS 314-540-0228 www.richwestdesigns.com SANDRA LEA FULTON DESIGNS 314-651-1360 www.fultondesigns.com SISTERS FLORAL DESIGN STUDIO 314-821-0076 www.sistersflowers.net SCHNUCKS FLORIST & GIFTS 9220 Shortline Drive 314-997-2444 www.schnucks.com Thorn Studio 6924 Morgan Ford Road 314-808-0706 www.thornstudio.net WILDFLOWERS 1013 Ohio, St. Louis 314-772-9900 www.wildflowersstl.com

Our seasoned staff specializes in wedding planning, design and coordination.

888-781-9321

www.ProposingDreams.com SPRING/SUMMER 2013 • www.bridestl.com

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Essential Guide FORMALWEAR Also see BRIDAL GOWNS & SALONS

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SAVILE ROW 9727 Clayton Road, Ladue 314-567-8500 www.savilerowstl.com SAVVI FORMALWEAR See locations below. www.savviwedding.com Galleria, 314-727-0088 South County, 314-894-2991 Mid Rivers Mall, 636-970-2281 Jamestown Mall, 314-355-4440 St. Clair Square, 618-632-8415 Alton Square, 618-465-1110 6185 Delmar Blvd., 314-725-2150 West County Center, 314-821-0070 Columbia Mall, 573-445-6602 Chesterfield Mall, 636-532-1800 White Oak Mall, 217-787-8150 STALLONEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FORMAL WEAR See locations below. www.stallonesformalwear.com Chesterfield, 636-519-7111 Ladue, 314-997-8900 Maryland Heights, 314-576-5900 Sunset Hills, 314-729-0004 St. Peters, 636-397-1111

Host your event in our downtown space in the 2OG 3RVW 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH %XLOGLQJ DW QR DGGLWLRQDO FKDUJH &RQWDFW RXU FDWHULQJ PDQDJHU DW RU H PDLO FDWHULQJ#ORFDOKDUYHVWFDIH FRP ZZZ ORFDOKDUYHVWFDIH FRP

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ANNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BRA AND LINGERIE SHOP 13471-75 Olive Street Rd., Chesterfield 314-878-4144 JULE 1590 Clarkson Road, Suite 105 636-536-9777 www.juleonline.com

GIFTSâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;ATTENDANT GIFTS, FAVORS, HOSPITALITY BAGS AND ACCESSORIES Also see BRIDAL REGISTRY, FLORISTS, JEWELERS and STATIONERS BRANDO 107 1/2 East Argonne 314-984-9114 www.brandoboutique.com THE DESIGNING BLOCK 7735 Clayton Road, Clayton 314-721-4224 www.thedesigningblock.com GIFTS 636-458-2439 www.giftsstlouis.com M. HALEY DESIGN 314-308-4743 www.mhaleydesign.com

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MELANIE’S 10277 Clayton Road, Ladue 314-993-0664 www.welanies-stlouis.com POPTIONS! 314-997-0441 www.poptionspopcorn.com PRESENTING MEMORIES 618-205-3210 www.presentingmemories.com THE SILVER LADY 4736 McPherson Avenue 314-367-7587 6364 Delmar Blvd. 314-727-0704 www.thesilver-lady.com

GOWN PRESERVATION RAM LEATHER CARE 8720 St. Charles Rock Rd., Overland 314-429-5115 www.ramleather.com

HONEYMOONS bliss honeymoons & destination weddings 314-298-9878 www.blisshoneymoons.com Destination Beach Bride 314-422-3308 Facebook.com/DestinationBeachBride

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TRAVEL HAUS OF ST. LOUIS 11231 Concord Village Ave., 63123 314-842-7313 www.travelhausstlouis.com

ICE SCULPTURES Ice Cuisine Sculptures 1919 Geyer Ave. 314-865-4232 www.icecuisine@att.net

Proud member of the association of bridal consultants As seen on OWN’s “Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s”

INVITATIONS/STATIONERS M. HALEY DESIGN 314-308-4743 www.mhaleydesign.com PAPER PATCH 12095 Manchester Road 314.821.6561 www.paperpatchinvitesyou.com TWO BLUE DOORS 75 W. Lockwood, Ste. 203, Webster Groves 314-968-4033 www.twobluedoors.com

.BLJOH :PVS &WFOUT %JWJOF premiere wedding & event planning mydivineevents.com 314.669.5933 11425 Dorsett Road Ste 202 Maryland Heights, MO 63043

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Essential Guide VELLUM 120 W. Monroe, Kirkwood 314-909-1640 www.velluminc.com

JEWELRY Also see GIFTS BRANDO 107 Â˝ East Argonne 314-984-9114 www.brandoboutique.com

â&#x20AC;˘ Free honeymoon registry â&#x20AC;˘ Great service with no service fees

CURT PARKER JEWELERS 10192 Conway Road, Ladue 314-989-9909 www.curtparker.com

â&#x20AC;˘ Travel planning for entire wedding party

Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ECOR INTERIORS & JEWELRY 13476 Olive Street Road Chesterfield, Mo 63017 314-434-4022 www.decor-jewelry.com

â&#x20AC;˘ Payment plans available on select vacations â&#x20AC;˘ Great prices without all the effort of planning it yourself

LADY BUG BEADS 7616 Big Bend Blvd. 314-644-6140 www.ladybugbeads.net

314-298-9878 www.BlissHoneymoons.com

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MELANIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 10277 Clayton Road, Ladue 314-993-0664 www.welanies-stlouis.com 11/20/12 11:14:06 AM

RACHELâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DESIGN 9495 Olive 314-991-0994 www.rachelsdesign.com SIMONS JEWELERS 8141 Maryland Avenue 314-725-8888 www.simonsjewelers.com SUTTON LASATER JEWELRY 314-308-5592 www.suttonlasater.com TIMEKEEPERS 17 N. Meramec, Clayton 314-721-4548 9495 Olive, Olivette 314-991-0994 www.timekeepersstl.com www.timekeepersclayton.com

LIGHTING & DĂ&#x2030;COR ALOBARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INC 716 Hanley Industrial Court 314-781-7600 www.alobars.com

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EXCLUSIVE EVENTS 13633 Lakefront Drive, Earth City 314-995-7282 www.exclusiveeventsinc.com

www.bridestl.com â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood 314-918-9335 www.millennium-productions.com

The Old Post Office

VINTAGE FOR THE DAY 314-502-5219 www.vintagefortheday.com

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE/SPECIAL OCCASION Also see BRIDAL GOWNS BESTBRIDALPRICES.COM DISTINCTIONS Westgate Shopping Centre 12354 Olive Blvd. 314-434-5445 www.distinctionsinfashion.com NEIMAN MARCUS Plaza Frontenac 314-567-9811

Photo by William Zbaren from American City: St. Louis Architecture: Three Centuries of Classic Design.

The Old Post Office A historic landmark built in 1884, recently renovated, offers a sweeping and

Photo by Signature Studios Photo by Joe Vavak

neoclassical venue for wedding events.

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Plaza Frontenac 314-567-9200 WOMEN’S CLOSET EXCHANGE 11575 Gravois Road 314-842-8405 www.womensclosetexchange.net

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

815 Olive Street / St. Louis, MO 63101 / 314.436.0101

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Photo by Joe Vavak

6/6/11 3:57:11 PM

CAHOKIA STRINGS QUARTET & ENSEMBLES 618-973-2786 www.cahokiastringquartet.com COMPLETE MUSIC DISC JOCKEY SERVICE 11224 Olive Blvd. 314-991-5656 www.cmusic.com

wedding planning & design

CJ’S DISC JOCKEY 314-892-0329 www.cjsdiscjockeyservice.com

Expert Advice Innovative Design Flawless Execution

DOWNTIME PRODUCTIONS 314-452-2848 www.downtime-productions.com

THE BEST GIFT YOU’LL EVER GIVE YOURSELF

MANHASSET STRINGS 636-537-0405 www.manhassetstrings.com Megan Hawkins Harpist 314-529-1854 www.meganhawkins.org MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood 314-918-9335 www.millennium-productions.com

www.stlweddingsbyrenee.com

Call for a Complimentary Consultation

314-616-4600 SPRING/SUMMER 2013 • www.bridestl.com

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Essential Guide ROCK STAR DJ’S 314-518-2407 www.rockstardjstl.com THE SPECTRUM BAND 314-434-7153 www.spectrumband.net STEEL DRUM FLAVOR 314-485-9541 www.steeldrumflavor.com TKO DJ’S 314-647-3000 www.tko-djs.com

OFFICIANTS ALL COUPLES MARRIED 314-781-0444 www.allcouplesmarried.com CAROLYN BURKE - WEDDING LIASION 314-821-4844 www.weddingliaison.com THE MONASTERY 3910 Old Hwy 94 South, Suite 120 – St. Charles 314-565-3776 or 636-328-4024 www.themonastery.vpweb.com

ONLINE PLANNING STLWB_1301SS_OverlookFarm.indd 1

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SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE www.bridestl.com

PHOTOBOOTHS Capture Pod 618-580-6536 www.capturepodstl.com

Lubeley’s Bakery and Deli, Inc. 7815 Watson Road St. Louis, MO 63119

(314) 961-7160 www.lubeleysbakery.com

FISH EYE FUN 314-621-8638 www.fisheyefun.com Fun Photo Events 314-293-9231 www.funphotoevents.com KLING KAMERA BOOTH 314-494-7560 314-458-3364 www.klingkamerabooth.com MARQUIS PHOTOBOOTH 314-365-9118 www.marquisphotobooth.com PARTYFACE PHOTO BOOTH 314-222-0052 www.partyfacephotobooth.com PHOTOBOOTH STL 314-776-3003 www.photoboothstl.com

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SHUTTERBOOTH 618-973-1894 www.shutterbooth.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS ABBIE TAKES PICTURES 314-616-2794 www.AbbieTakesPictures.com BOBBI BRINKMAN PHOTOGRAPHY 314-361-9899 www.bobbibrinkmanphotography.com kurtis hall photographer 314-323-0811 www.kurtishall.com JOSEPHINE 314-962-8240 www.jhavlak.com K.S.H. designs 314-409-1629 www.kshdesignsonline.com L PHOTOGRAPHIE 314-265-3786 www.lphotographie.com Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;AMORE ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY 314.707.3539 www.lamorerose.com MEMORIES ARE FOREVER 314-878-5657 www.memoriesareforever.com MILES OF SMILES 636-376-3391 www.milesofsmilesphotographystudio.com

The Franklin Room

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PHOTOGRAPHIQUE, LLC 510 West Hwy 50 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Fallon, IL 618-632-3921 www.photographiquestudio.com

Character Elegance Charm

ROBERT GEORGE STUDIO 2913 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood 314-771-6622 www.robertgeorgestudio.com

VON DE VORE PHOTOGRAPHY 314-922-1612 www.vondevorephotography.com

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SIMPLI PHOTOGRAPHY 573-747-7232 www.simpliphotography.com

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Roland Studios 314-260-9947 www.rolandstudiosstl.com SIGNATURE STUDIO 3520-1 Greenwood Blvd., Maplewood 314-368-0213 www.signaturestudio.com

11/14/12 12:47:24 PM

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Essential Guide W. PHOTOGRAPHY 603 N. Main Street, Columbia, IL 618-281-7558 www.w-photography.net WHITE KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY 314.471.8027 www.whiteklumpphotography.com ZETTL PHOTOGRAPHY LTD. 314-454-6612 www.zettlphoto.com

RECEPTION SITES See RECEPTION SITE LISTINGS on Page 210.

REGISTRY BELLA BRIDAL NETWORK 866-832-7792 www.bellabridalnetwork.com CRATE AND BARREL 1 The Boulevard (Brentwood and Galleria Parkway) 314-725-6380 www.crateandbarrel.com

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MACYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Store locations below. 1-800-835-9716 Alton, 618-463-4100 Chesterfield, 636-532-3800 Downtown St. Louis, 314-444-3111 Galleria, 314-726-1810 Jamestown, 314-741-4224 MidRivers, 636-278-6660 South County, 314-892-0110 St. Clair, 618-624-2000 West County Center, 314-966-0017 www.macys.weddingchannel.com POTTERY BARN Plaza Frontenac (Lindbergh and Clayton) 314-996-2630 www.potterybarn.com WILLIAMS SONOMA Plaza Frontenac (Clayton and Lindbergh) 314-567-9211 www.williams-sonoma.com

REHEARSAL DINNERS, SHOWERS & BRUNCHES Also see RECEPTION SITE GRID on Page 212 and CATERERS beginning on page 223. BIXBYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S AT THE MISSOURI HISTORY MUSEUM Forest Park 314-454-3151 www.butlerspantry.com

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BLACKFINN AMERICAN GRILLE 1147 Saint Louis Galleria 314-726-2024 www.BlackFinnStLouis.com

www.bridestl.com â&#x20AC;¢ SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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BOATHOUSE – FOREST PARK 6101 Government Drive 314-367-2224 www.boathouseforestpark.com BRADSHAW ROOM 3701 Lindell 314-367-4848 www.thecoronado.com BRISTOL SEAFOOD 11801 Olive Blvd. 314-567-0272 www.bristolseafoodgrill.com

Where unique

Weddings take flight

BUSCH STADIUM SPECIAL EVENTS 700 Clark Street 314-345-9357 www.cardinals.com/events CAFÉ EAU / CHASE PARK PLAZA 212 N. Kingshighway, Central West End 314-454-9000 www.chaseparkplaza.com Chandler Hill Vineyards 596 Defiance Road 636-798-2675 www.chandlerhillvineyards.com CHARLIE GITTO’S “ON THE HILL” 5226 Shaw Ave. 314-772-8898 www.charliegittos.com CHARLIE GITTO’S “FROM THE HILL” 777 Casino Center Drive 314-770-7663 www.charliegittos.com

Available year round! So ph i a M . Sa c hs TKOad.pdf

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Faust Park 15193 Olive Blvd. Chesterfield, MO 63017 (636) 530-0076 www.butterflyhouse.org

11/19/12 12:51:06 PM

CITY COTTAGE ON CHOUTEAU 314-961-7588 www.cateringstlouis.com Crowne Plaza Downtown St. Louis 200 North Fourth Street 314-436-8051 www.crowneplaza.com/stlouisdt FAROTTO’S 314-962-0048 www.farottos.com FLAMINGO BOWL 1117 Washington Avenue, Downtown 314-436-6666 www.flamingobowl.net FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR 1855 S. Lindbergh Blvd. 314-567-7610 www.flemingssteakhouse.com THE GARDENS AT MALMAISON 3519 St. Albans Road, St. Albans, MO 636-458-0131 www.gardensmalmaison.com GATEWAY ARCH RIVERBOATS 314-923-3047 www.gatewayarch.com SPRING/SUMMER 2013 • www.bridestl.com STLWB_1207FW_TKODJs.indd 1

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Essential Guide GIAN TONY’S 5356 Daggett Avenue 314-772-4893 www.gian-tonys.com GUIDO’S 5046 Shaw Ave., The Hill 314-771-4900 www.guidosstl.com HILTON ST. LOUIS DOWNTOWN 400 Olive Street 314-436-0002 www.400olive.com HOLIDAY INN 10709 Watson Road 314-821-6600 www.holidayinn.com

Dipptf!gspn!bo!fdmfdujd!wbsjfuz!pg!dvjtjof///Xifsf!zpvs!fwfsz!fwfou!jt!pvs!dbufsjoh!tqfdjbmuz" On the day you say “I do” let Gregory’s say “we do.” With style, taste and elegance. Enjoy your day by having your cake and eating it too. Catering events with unforgettable impact. Mouthwatering menus at: www.gregoryscreativecuisine.com Contact Chef Gregory at 314.481.4481 or gmchef@yahoo.com

HORIZON AT HARRY’S 2144 Market Street 314-421-6969 www.horizonatharrys.com J. GILBERT’S 17 West County Center 314-965-4600 www.jgilberts.com

JUST A SAMPLE OF OUR OFF – SITE LOCATIONS MAHLER BALLROOM ∞ SOULARD PRESERVATION HALL ∞ THE RIALTO ∞ THE EDGE ∞ NEO

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HOME WINE KITCHEN 7322 Manchester Rd., Maplewood 314-802-7676 www.homewinekitchen.com

11/20/12 11:06:54 AM

JOE BUCK’S/J BUCKS 1000 Clark Ave., Downtown 314-436-0394 101 S. Hanley, Clayton 314-725-4700 www.jbucks.com KEMOLL’S TOP OF THE MET One Metropolitan Plaza 314-421-0555 www.kemolls.com KEMP AUTO MUSEUM 16955 Chesterfield Airport Road, Chesterfield 636-537-1718 www.kempmuseumservices.com Local Harvest Old Post Office Building 815 Olive Street (at the corner of Locust & 9th) 314-241-3196 www.localharvestcafe.com THE LODGE AT GRANT’S TRAIL BY ORLANDOS 4398 Hoffmeister 314-638-3340 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com LO RUSSO’S CUCINA 3121 Watson Rd. 314-647-6222 www.lorussos.com

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LUCAS PARK GRILLE & MARKET 1234 Washington Avenue, 63103 314-241-7770 www.lucasparkgrille.com MAMA CAMPISIS 2132 Edwards 314-776-3100 www.mamacampisis.com

OLD HICKORY GOLF CLUB #1 Dye Club Drive 636-477-8960 www.oldhickorygc.com

©SWITZER FILM

Dessert Bars • Food Trucks

NATIONAL SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF THE SNOWS 442 S. Demazendo Dr., Belleville 618-397-6700 / 314-241-3400 www.snows.org

Custom Cakes • Wedding Cakes • Cupcakes

The Old Peace Chapel At the Historic Daniel Boone Home Hwy F Defiance 636-798-2005 www.danielboonehome.com OLD ROCK HOUSE 1200 S. 7th Street 314-588-0505 www.oldrockhouse.com OLIVA ON THE HILL 4915 Daggett Street 314-961-7588 www.cateringstlouis.com

Looking for something special for your guests? Food trucks make a great late night snack for your reception! CALL TO SCHEDULE >ÌiÊ } ÌÊ- >V ÊUÊ7i`` }Ê >Û À Cocktail Hour

10 Clarkson Wilson Centre | Chesterfield 636-728-1140 ww .sa rah sc

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RIGAZZI’S 4945 Daggett, The Hill 314-772-4900 www.rigazzis.com RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Brentwood & Forsyth – Clayton 314-783-9900 Hyatt Riverfront Hotel - Downtown 314-259-3200 www.ruthschrisstlouis.com SPAZIO WESTPORT 12031 Lackland Road 314-427-6771 www.russosgourmet.com VILLA FAROTTO 636-519-0048 www.villafarotto.com Vino Nadoz Wine Bar & Café 16 The Boulevard 314-726-4040 www.vinonadozwinebar.com WORLD CHESS HALL OF FAME 4652 Maryland Avenue St. Louis, Mo 63108 314-367-9243 x 106 www.worldchesshof.org

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Essential Guide RENTALS ALOBAR’S INC 716 Hanley Industrial Court 314-781-7600 www.alobars.com ALL SEASONS LINEN RENTAL, INC. 314-983-0090 www.allseasonslinen.com COUTURE FLORAL AND EVENTS 314-494-6610 www.cfloral.com EXCLUSIVE EVENTS 13633 Lakefront Drive, Earth City 314-995-7282 www.exclusiveeventsinc.com GRAND RENTAL STATION 570 Rudder Rd., Fenton 636-343-PARTY (7278) www.grandrental-stl.com MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood 314-918-9335 www.millennium-productions.com PARTY ARTS 3252 Laclede Station Road 314-781-1400 www.party-arts.com

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SITTING PRETTY 3252 Laclede Station Road 314-781-1400 www.imsittingpretty.com TRAUBE TENT COMPANY 800-352-TENT www.traubetent.com Vintage for the Day 314-502-5219 www.vintagefortheday.com WEINHARDT PARTY RENTALS 11601 Manchester Rd., DesPeres 5901 Elizabeth Ave., St. Louis 314-822-9000 www.weinhardtpartyrentals.com

SPECIAL SERVICES

Photo by Salvatore Cincotta

Welcome your guests in style with a custom gift bag or basket. Let GIFTS prepare a distinctive gift to welcome your out of town guests, thank your wedding party or the parents that made your day possible. GIFTS will do all of the work and deliver to your guests’ hotels, or we can be your one-stop shop for the DIY bride.

COLLEGE NANNIES – BABY SITTING SERVICE 636-926-2681 www.collegenannies.com STL WEDDING SITTERS 314-266-2657 www.stlweddingsitters.com

636.458.2439 • www.giftsstlouis.com 238

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SPECIAL TOUCHES ALOBAR’S INC. 716 Hanley Industrial Court 314-781-7600 www.alobars.com CHOCOLATE FOUNTAIN AFFAIR 636-230-6763 www.chocolatefountainaffair.com PEARL VODKA WEDDING CAKE www.pearlweddingcake.com TRAUBE TENT COMPANY 800-352-TENT www.traubetent.com

TRANSPORTATION BEST TRANSPORTATION 8531 Page Avenue, Suite 160 314-989-1500 www.besttransporation.com

Buffet or Seated Dinner Exceeding Your Expectations Seating for up to 60 Guests Full Bar Service Private Entrance Handicap Accessible

BROOKDALE FARMS HORSE AND CARRIAGE RENTALS 636-938-1005 www.brookdalefarmsinc.com

VIDEOGRAPHERS COMPLETE VIDEO 11224 Olive Blvd. 314-991-5656 www.cmusic.com

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CREATIVE VIDEO SERVICES, LLC 314-317-9228 www.creativevideostl.com LIFETIME MEDIA 8140 Brentwood Industrial Dr. 314-481-4754 www.weddingsbylifetime.com MILLENNIUM VIDEO 1334 Strassner Drive, Brentwood 314-918-9335 www.millennium-productions.com THE PERFECT IMAGE OF ST. LOUIS 314.662.4862 www.theperfectimageofstlouis.com WESTVIEW MEDIA 149 N. Meramec, Clayton 314-726-6222 www.westviewmedia.com

Visit our website!

Custom jewelry made with Swarovski crystals and pearls handmade especially for you and your wedding party by Sutton Lasater Jewelry.

The St. Louis Bride website offers a wealth of information. Check it out at www.bridestl.com

www.suttonlasater.com 314-308-5592

bridal@suttonlasater.com facebook.com/suttonlasaterjewelry

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Style

That Perfect Something

Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

— A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION —

Founded on innovation, creativity and professionalism, Chef Todd Guzdial and staff specialize in creating unforgettable events! Whether you are hosting a wedding, a backyard BBQ or a major corporate function, every Artistic Affairs event is planned and executed with style. Contact us for a quote today. www.artisticaffairscatering.com todd@artisticaffairscatering.com 314-918-0003

Bella Bridesmaid A collection for the modern bridesmaid Bella Bridesmaid, St. Louis 13428 Clayton Road St. Louis, MO 63131 314.205.1191 p www.bellabridesmaid.com

Cahokia String Quartet and Ensembles Weddings, Banquets, Anniversaries, Birthdays From baroque through today’s rock music For 15 years this quartet has entertained St. Louis audiences with music from every genre Whatever your day, we make it beautiful, memorable and affordable www.cahokiastringquartet.com | 618.973.2786

SNS Makeup Artistry & Hair Design We provide full makeup and hair services for your special occasion and also Bridal assistance for a stress-free wedding day. We also specialize in Henna Tattoo Design. 314.488.8999 www.snsmakeupartistry.com www.facebook.com/snsmakeup

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Petals Galore Welcome to the creative world of Sandra Lea Fulton Designs, a progressive floral designer and entrepreneur setting precedents in St. Louis. Sandra’s established three successful floral brands: Petals Galore Floral Art, The $100 Bouquet Company and Sugar Plum Silk Bouquets. With three brands we are able to service the needs of our clients at different design levels and price points. We’re a design company built with passion, creativity and love for all aspects of floral design. From a single design to an entire event, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish. www.fultondesigns.com

12/13/12 9:29:40 AM

Cold Stone Creamery and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Treat your guests to the Ultimate Ice Cream Experience® with catering from Cold Stone Creamery. We offer our super premium ice cream in custom wedding cakes or cupcake towers, sundae bars, or the full Cold Stone experience -- the portable stone Indulge your guests sweet tooth with favors from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Choose from our 21 varieties of caramel apples, chocolate dipped strawberries or customized indulgent truffles. With our two great brands, the possibilities are endless! Contact us for availability or information! (618) 567-6000 www.coldstone-rockymountaincatering.com

Emily Miller specializes in Bridal Makeup including 24-hour Airbrush Makeup application. She has worked with TOP clients such as The Food Network, MTV and People Magazine.

Abbie Takes Pictures

Consultation by appointment. www.emily-miller.com info@emily-miller.com (314) 780-8247

The Crimson Petal Garden Fresh Floral Design By appointment only 314-578-5363 www.thecrimsonpetal.net

PhotoboothStL Rent a photobooth for your reception, and you’ll create an experience… A photobooth will provide hours of entertainment, instant party favors, and lasting memories for the bride and groom, as well as all of your guests. We will supply a photo scrapbook that will make a beautiful keepsake. Customize the photo with your information and colors. We have many creative ways to integrate a booth into your celebration. (314) 776-3003 www.photoboothstl.com

Curt Parker Jewelers The ultimate platinum source for engagement and right- hand rings with a specialty in micro-pave’ designs. Sure to dazzle for generations. 10192 Conway Road 314.989.9909 www.curtparker.com

Day-of Coordination With a Twist Wedding Celebrant / Officiant / Elopements 600+ Event Locations and 150+ Religious Sites www.WeddingLiaison.com • (314) 821-4844 • www.ElopeInStLouis.com

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Style

That Perfect Something

Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

Charles P. Stanley Cigar Co. & Lounge Downtown’s Premiere Bachelor/Bachelorette Gathering Place

— A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION —

Celebrate with your groomsmen/bridesmaids in our comfortable lounge atmosphere! Choose from over 1,000 different cigars to pair with our extensive selection of single malt scotches, cognacs and cordials. Stanley’s is the oldest, largest and ONLY cigar retailer & lounge in downtown St. Louis. 11th and Washington | 314-436-3500

The Shrewsbury Ballroom & Banquet Center A perfect location for wedding receptions, fundraising events, corporate meetings or private parties. Our facility allows you to personalize your event by letting you choose your own caterers and vendors. - Accommodates 240 -300 guests - Catering kitchens Photography for the Stylish Bride.

available - Dance floor - Stage - Ample parking - Centrally located off Hwy 44

www.vondevorephoto.com | www.vondevorephotoblog.com | 314.922.1612

For more information contact Andrea Krechel at 314.647.1003 ext 218 or Akrechel@cityofshrewsbury.com

LES B O U Q U E T S European inspired and known for exceeding our clients’ expectations, we at Les Bouquets listen to your needs as we create artistic and unique floral designs for your special day. Call to schedule a free hour of consultation at our location in Webster Groves. 7905 Big Bend, Suite 102 Webster Groves, MO 63119 Visit us online at www.LesBouquets.com

The Monastery

E-mail: LesBouquets@gmail.com Phone: 314 395 8335

Let us work with you planning your perfect Wedding Ceremony, Non-Denominational, and Catholic, at the venue of your choice. Experienced Ministers to help you with the perfect celebration. www.themonastery.vp.com • 314-565-3776 or 636-328-4024

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Lifetime Media Wedding Films Imagine 5, 10 or 20 years from now...without a video. Do you wish you had captured the moment?

Let Lifetime Media show you everything a wedding video should be. Multi-award winning company in business over 12 years 8140 Brentwood Industrial Dr. | 314-481-4754 | www.weddingsbylifetime.com

Ann Rabbitt AIFD .PSHBO 'PSE 3PBE t 4U -PVJT .0 XXX UIPSOTUVEJP OFU t BOO!UIPSOTUVEJP OFU

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Miles of Smiles Photography Studio Photography Packages starting at $1150 We now offer Photo Booth services with unlimited photos you can send straight to Facebook! Props and attendant included with all packages. Visit milesofsmilesphotgraphystudio.com or follow us on Facebook for more details. 636-376-3391 milesofsmilesphotgraphystudio.com

Lady Bug Beads Create the Perfect Match

At Lady Bug Beads your wedding jewelry is limited only by your imagination. Our staff of designers can create a one of a kind look for you or help you make your own. Bring us your vision! Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the wedding party....with an endless selection of colors we can find that perfect match. Chosen as the Best Bead Shop in St. Louis and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aâ&#x20AC;? listed by St. Louis Magazine M,W,F 10-6pm T,TH 10-8pm Sat. 9-4pm Sun. 12-4pm 7616 Big Bend Blvd. 314.644.6140 www.ladybugbeads.net

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Stalloneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Formal Wear

11/27/12 11:34:36 AM

-Local Inventory and Ownership -Worldwide service for out-of-town wedding party members -Front door parking/not a mall store -Facebook specials -Selected as 2012 Best Tuxedo Shop and Wedding Professional of the Year -Personal Attention and Service Chesterfield | 173 Hilltown Village 636-519-7111 Ladue | 9644 Clayton Rd 314-997-8900 Maryland Hts | 87 Progress Parkway 314-576-5900 Sunset Hills | 3828 S. Lindbergh 314-729-0004 St. Peters | New Location 2013 636-397-1111 1-800-666-5901 www.stallonesformalwear.com

Vellum From classic to contemporary, Vellum has the perfect invitation for you! Whether your wedding is a black-tie affair or a beachfront ceremony, this charming boutique provides an enormous selection of wedding invitations, save the dates, programs, menus, thank you notes and more! Visit the special Bridal Room, where brides receive the personal attention they need. 120 West Monroe, Kirkwood 314-909-1640 www.velluminc.com

12/13/12 9:32:09 AM

Style

Savvi Formalwear

That Perfect Something

Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

Voted “Best Formalwear Specialist” in St. Louis for 3 years in a row. Our local inventory and dry cleaning facility lets us provide you with a level of service and quality unmatched by any other tuxedo company. Savvi has all the latest styles in tuxedos and suits by today’s top designers, along with our legendary service and pricing that can’t be matched. Free Groom’s Try On

— A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION —

12 Locations 800.Tuxedo.4 www.SavviWedding.com

Timekeepers kate@kshdesignsonline.com www.kshdesignsonline.com check us out on Facebook @ k.s.h. designs

Specializing in the Repair, Restoration, Purchase & Sales Of Timepieces, Music Boxes & Jewelry, as well as custom Jewelry Designing & Hand Engraving. We provide unique Estate Jewelry & Timepieces for your Bridesmaids & Groomsmen, as well as that Special Something for your Special Someone. The Estate Jewelry Experts 17N. Meramec - Clayton 9495 Olive, Ste. C - Olivette (314) 721-4548 (314) 991-0994 www.Timekeepersclayton.com www.TimekeepersSTL.com

The Ultimate Bride Voted “Best St. Louis Bridal Salon,” The Ultimate Bride has everything for your bridal party: exclusive gowns, custom headpieces & veils, bridesmaids and adorable flower girl dresses. We offer unique designer gowns from traditional to trendy, along with our knowledgeable consultants and experienced alteration staff, the Ultimate Bride will help make your wedding day perfect! New Location 1115 South Big Bend Boulevard 314.961.9997 www.TheUltimateBride.com

Big Daddy’s on the Landing Big Daddy’s on the Landing is your bachelorette party headquarters. Located in the heart of beautiful historic Laclede’s Landing, Big Daddy’s offers an unparallelled experience for the bride-to-be. All groups big and small can be accommodated with excellent rates on food and beverages. Bachelorette parties of 5 or more receive a complimentary bottle of champagne. Big Daddy’s on the Landing also employs only the top DJ’s and live entertainment in St. Louis. Make sure you get all the girls together for your memorable, or not so memorable last night out as a single lady at Big Daddy’s on the Landing! 118 Morgan Street, St. Louis, MO 63102 314.621.6700 | www.bigdaddystl.com

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Style

PAPER PATCH All you need is love. Paper Patch has all the rest.

That Perfect Something

SAVE THE DATES ENGAGEMENT • SHOWER WEDDING INVITATIONS MAPS • PROGRAMS PLACE CARDS FAVORS • STATIONERY CUSTOM DESIGNS

Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

Personalized service for over 26 years

— A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION —

12095 Manchester Road Des Peres, Missouri 63131 314-821-6561 www.paperpatchinvitesyou.com

Personal Touch Weddings Make your wedding vows as personal & unique as your love. We’ll create a ceremony for you or assist your creative impulses. -- Include children, extended family, blended family -interfaith, non-denominational, civil services -- your choice of locations. You provide the love, We provide the Personal Touch. 314-426-4268 wilsonweddings@sbcglobal.net

The Manhasset Strings This professional string quartet will add elegance and style to your event! Providing that ‘magical’ touch for the past fifteen years, we will help you select and design music for your wedding, reception or dinner. We look forward to being a part of your special day! Contact: Marilyn at 636.537.0405 www.manhassetstrings.com

SISTERS floral design studio

Fresh. Award Winning. Design Forward. Kirkwood, Missouri – design consultations by appointment

314.607.7077 hellobeautiful@whitehousestl.com www.whitehousestl.com

314.821.0076 www.SistersFlowers.net

...she had a cocktail in hand and confetti in her hair.

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Style

That Perfect Something

Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

— A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION —

The most creative and personalized Ice Sculptures in St. Louis. All of Ice Cuisines sculptures are hand carved in a 15-degree ice studio which is the only one in the area. Ice Cuisine only charges for ice used, not for difficulty or new designs. From small shot glasses * magnificent ice bars * cake tables * drink slides * ice bowls * champagne buckets * candle holders or something designed to take your theme to the next level, Ice Cuisine is here to help. The best Ice Artist at the lowest price in St. Louis. Turning St. Louis water into high quality art! 1919 Geyer Ave St. Louis, MO 63104 • 314-865-4232 www.icecuisine.com • icecuisine@att.net

Women’s Closet Exchange Nationally Recognized Designer Resale. We’re the secret to dressing like a million bucks without spending it. Women’s Closet Exchange offers one of the largest selections of women’s apparel, handbags, shoes, jewelry and accessories from top-name fashion designers priced well below retail cost. Perfect for mother of the bride/groom!

It Works Global Tighten, Tone, and Firm in 45 minutes! Wrap anywhere from the chin down. Samantha Danielson | 219-851-6496 | samanthadanielson.myitworks.com Linda Danielson | 219-363-1808 | lindadanielson.myitworks.com

American Laser Skincare Helping brides look their best with Laser Hair Removal, Skin Rejuvenation and Cellulite Reduction Treatments. Be perfect on your big day. Book your free consultation today (636) 489-2633 122 Hilltown Village Center Chesterfield MO, 63017 www.americanlaser.com

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Conveniently located one mile east off Highway 270 on Gravois Road in the Sappington Plaza amongst the “shops of resale row.” 11575 Gravois Road St. Louis, MO 63126 314.842.8405 www.womensclosetexchange.net

Festive Atmospheres Flowers define the style of any event. Classic Chic Casual Elegance Modern Sophistication Always a Festive Atmosphere By Appointment Frankie Peltiere, AIFD 8314 Olive Blvd 314-481-1501 www.FestiveAtmospheres.com Frankie@FestiveAtmospheres.com

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Rehearsal Dinner A Special Advertising Section Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Our promise at Fleming’s is to make your Rehearsal Dinner a celebration with worldclass food, wine and personalized service. Each room can be configured for your specific needs including custom linens, flowers, music and audio visual. Our rooms are perfect for groups of 10-80. For more information please contact our Private Dining Director, Jamie Windhorst at pdstlouis@flemingssteakhouse.com or 314-917-1196. 1855 South Lindbergh Boulevard | St. Louis, MO 63131 www.FlemingsSteakhouse.com/StLouis

Old Rock House

Old Rock House is one of the most unique places to hold your event. We are one of the city’s premiere smoke joints and event facilities. Experience this treasure for your next event. We can host your wedding reception, rehearsal dinner, or party of any kind and size. Allow us to create your memory.

1200 S. 7th Street, St. Louis, MO 63104 314-588-0505 • email: specialevents@oldrockhouse.com www.oldrockhouse.com

Flamingo Bowl Located in beautiful downtown St. Louis, Flamingo Bowl offers a unique rehearsal dinner / reception experience with grand views of Washington Avenue. This one of a kind setting offers upscale art-deco décor, a fun atmosphere, and an exceptional catering menu—sure to make your event unmatched. Our private rooms include cozy lounge areas, a pool table, and state of the art bowling lanes. Many options are available to make the night uniquely yours. For more information contact: Gabe Pecher at gabe@flamingobowl.net 1117 Washington Ave. St. Louis, MO 63101 314.436.6666 flamingobowl.com

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Charlie Gitto’s St. Louis’ Premier Dining Experience An Elegant Setting for Your Rehearsal Dinner Charlie Gitto’s “On the Hill” 5226 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 314.772.8898 Charlie Gitto’s at Hollywood Casino 777 Casino Center Drive, Maryland Height, MO 63043 314.770.7663 www.charliegittos.com

Embassy Suites St. Louis Downtown Opened in October 2011, the new Embassy Suites St. Louis – Downtown is located in the heart of St. Louis in the new Mercantile Exchange District at the corner of Washington Avenue and 7th Street. The facilities offer warm, urban-contemporary décor and the location puts you right at Washington Ave. Offering 212 two-room suites with complimentary cooked-toorder breakfast and our signature evening Manager’s Reception, this is the ideal location for out of town guests. Ideal for receptions and rehearsal dinners, or any event from 10-200, the Embassy Suites can cater to your every need with creative culinary delights sure to please your guests. 610 N. 7th Street | St. Louis, MO 63101 314.269.5900 www.stlouisdowntown.embassysuites.com

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Rehearsal Dinner A Special Advertising Section Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

Ruth’s Chris Steak House Add sizzle to your wedding REHEARSAL by booking your DINNER with us. EVENT DINING & OFF-SITE CATERING | Now you can experience the service, expertise and flavor of Ruth’s Chris at your event, anywhere you like. Celebrate your special occasion in one of Ruth’s private dining rooms or at an off site location of your choosing. Ruth’s offers a variety of menu options to complement your event theme, taste and budget. Discuss your group event with a Ruth’s Chris Private Dining Manger. Choose from two St. Louis restaurant locations, poised to accommodate eight to 110 guests. Inquire about our off site catering capabilities. Ruth’s Chris Steak House is independently owned and locally operated. Brentwood & Forsyth • 1 North Brentwood, Clayton, MO • 314.783.9900 Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch • 315 Chestnut Street, St. Louis, MO • 314.259.3200 www.RuthsChrisStLouis.com

World Chess Hall of Fame

The Knight Center

Located in the historic Central West End neighborhood, the World Chess Hall of Fame’s third floor gallery offers a beautiful sunlit space with large windows, dark hardwood floors and exposed ceiling beams. A unique space for an engagement party, wedding shower, rehearsal dinner, or reception! You choose the caterer to customize a menu just for your event. Space available for up to 100 guests. For more information, contact Special Events Manager, Lauren Stewart. lauren.stewart@worldchesshof.org or (314) 367-9243 x106

The Knight Center on the beautiful campus of Washington University makes an ideal setting for your Rehearsal Dinner, Wedding Ceremony, and/or Reception. From the elegant dining room to the casual outdoor courtyard, we will help you create the perfect atmosphere. Choose from sit down service, upscale buffet, or hors d’oeuvres, all prepared by our gourmet executive chef. The Knight Center can accommodate groups up to 200 people and has 66 on-site guest rooms for overnight guests.

4652 Maryland Avenue | Saint Louis, MO 63108 (314) 367-9243 x106 | www.worldchesshof.org

314.933.9400 www.olin.wustl.edu/knightcenter | knightcenter@olin.wustl.edu

Hilton St. Louis Frontenac

Gateway Arch Riverboats It’s all about memories, and what could be more unique and memorable than a rehearsal dinner or wedding reception cruise on the Mississippi with the impressive St. Louis skyline as your backdrop. Variety of menu choices to suit your individual taste. Accommodates 50 to 200. On The Gateway Arch Riverfront 314.923.3047 gatewayarch.com

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True to the French influence of the suburb it calls home, the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac is a destination synonymous with elegance and comfort where professional staff awaits dedicated to making every event memorable. The Ambassadeur & Clayton Ballrooms will accommodate groups from 25-600 guests and our 263 beautifully appointed guest rooms offer comfort and style in one of Saint Louis’ most prestigious communities. 1335 South Lindbergh Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63131 314.993.1100 www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com

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Holiday Inn Route 66 Let us help create memories . . . Celebrate your special occasion at the Holiday Inn Route 66. The perfect setting for wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners or bridal showers. Located in Sunset Hills near I-270 and I-44.

Rigazzi’s

10709 Watson Road St. Louis, MO 63127 314-821-6600 or 314-620-2159

Rigazzi’s, family owned and operated since 1957, is the oldest restaurant on The Hill. Rigazzi’s has been recognized many times, both locally and nationally, for their delicious Italian cuisine. Now offering two banquet rooms for your rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or special event with special packages to meet your needs. 4945 Daggett 314.772.4900 | www.rigazzis.com

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Bristol Seafood Grill

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Eat Drink Be Married Be it a wedding rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or reception, Bristol offers comfortable, private spaces for up to 65 people. We’ll provide one of the finest private party spaces in St. Louis – and leave the memory-making up to you. Our sister restaurant, J. Gilbert’s WoodFired Steaks and Seafood in West County Center has accommodations for intimate dinners in our wine room and buy-outs of the dining room for lunch or dinner. For more information, visit www.jgilberts.com.

Zia’s

Imagine a rehearsal dinner with no pre-set menu! With more than 35 choices, your guests can order what they would like. Zia’s has been family owned and operated for more than 25 years and has become a St. Louis institution. With a casual, traditional decor, Zia’s specializes in pastas, veal, seafood, chicken and steaks.

11801 Olive Blvd. | Creve Coeur 314.567.0272 Bristolseafoodgrill.com

“On the Hill” 5256 Wilson Ave. • 314.776.0020 • www.zias.com

BlackFinn American Grille The premier rehearsal dinner dining destination. Conveniently located on the Clayton corner of the St. Louis Galleria, BlackFinn offers a surplus of parking, ease and comfort in a midtown location and several private rooms to choose from. We accommodate groups from 20-100 for sit down dinners and has a variety of options for rehearsal dinners, receptions, showers, and bachlorette parities. 1147 Saint Louis Galleria, St. Louis, MO 63117 314.726.5300 www.blackfinnstlouis.com

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J. Buck’s Make rehearsal dinners easy to plan! With two convenient locations throughout the St. Louis area. J. Buck’s Restaurant’s offer private rooms, offsite catering, patio areas, along with the quality Classic-Style American Cuisine and service guests have come to expect. E-mail Mandi@jbucks.com to book your event! Private space available for groups up to 250 people. Perfect for rehearsel dinners or receptions. www.Jbucks.com 1000 Clark Avenue Downtown St. Louis 314-436-0394

101 S. Hanley Clayton 314-725-4700

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Rehearsal Dinner A Special Advertising Section Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

Lucas Park Grille

Lucas Park Grille is honored to host your special evening during this memorable time in your life. Chef Kyle Patterson uses seasonal ingredients to create his signature dishes for your custom dining experience. Our private Grille and Wine Room exudes an aura of elegance and romance. Whether hosting your rehearsal dinner or an intimate evening, Lucas Park Grille promises a distinguished occasion. 1234 Washington Avenue • St. Louis, MO 63103 314.241.7770 www.lucasparkgrille.com

Guido’s Located in the heart of The Hill Guido’s Pizzeria and Tapas offers a newly renovated banquet room for your private event. Our banquet room can accomidate up to 50 guests. We offer a beautiful setting including hardwood floors and a beautiful fire place. With such a diverse menu Guido’s is sure to have a package to please everyone. Open 7 days a week guidosstl.com 5046 Shaw 314-771-4900

Old Hickory Golf Club Old Hickory Golf Club is the perfect setting for your Rehearsal Dinner. Whether you are looking for an upscale environment or relaxing evening our private rooms will make it a memorable occasion for you and your guests. We offer a wide variety of menus to personalize your event and our rooms provide you with breathtaking views of our award winning golf course. Old Hickory Golf Club 636-477-8960 #1 Dye Club Dr. St. Peters, MO 63304 www.oldhickorygc.com

Kemoll’s Restaurant

The Ritz Carlton, St. Louis Kick off your wedding weekend with a memorable rehearsal dinner at The Ritz-Carlton. Enjoy your evening with good friends and family in an intimate setting exclusively for you. Let us create a menu that reflects your casual style or your formal flare. Call Robin Albach at 314-863-6300 to discuss your special dinner at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis today 100 Carondelet Plaza. | www.ritzcarlton.com/stlouis

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Kemoll’s Restaurant has been delighting St. Louis since 1927 with their delicious flavor and top notch service. Make your rehearsal dinner stress free from the 40th floor of the Met Building. The spectacular views and the award winning food will be sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your guests. Dinner or cocktail and appetizer packages include everything— tax, gratuity, white linens, candles and enclosed garage parking in the Met Square building. We look forward to serving you. Kemoll’s Restaurant Top of the Met 314-421-0555 Kemolls.com

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Hilton St. Louis Downtown Celebrate your special event in historical elegance at the Hilton St. Louis Downtown. Our intimate atmosphere is perfect for groups of 15 - 80. Enjoy catered selections from our award-winning restaurant, 400 Olive, while our hospitable and experienced staff fulfill your every need. 400 Olive St. Louis Mo. 63102 314-436-0002 www.stlouisdowntown.hilton.com www.400olive.com

Russo’s Spazio

With several different banquet rooms, including our newly-renovated Bistro with contemporary décor and our popular Garden Room, Russo’s Spazio at Westport is the perfect place to book your rehearsal dinner! Spazio at Westport can accommodate any party from 25-250 people, and offers traditional, themed, or cocktail party menu options, so you can customize your rehearsal dinner to your unique standards! Russo’s Spazio at Westport is also centrally located just outside of Westport Plaza in Maryland Heights. Spazio at Westport is owned and operated by Russo’s Gourmet Catering, which has proudly served St. Louis for over 40 years. Call Spazio at Westport today to book your rehearsal dinner, and receive a complimentary wine toast for your guests! 12031 Lackland Rd. St. Louis, MO 63146 • 314.576.0400 • www.russosgourmet.com

Busch Stadium Busch Stadium has hosted far more than World Series Championship celebrations. Our field and 17 distinct venues have hosted countless weddings, rehearsal dinners and other celebrations. All of these successful events had one thing in common, they were held in a truly unique space that leaves guests with a memory that will last a lifetime. No matter your event, Busch Stadium Special Events is ready to work with you to make it the best event you and your guests have ever attended. For more information, please call 314.345.9630 www.Cardinals.com/events

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Patty Long Catering’s Rooftop Deck Celebrate your special evening with Patty Long Catering and enjoy an intimate evening atop our gorgeous 9th Street Abbey, in our Rooftop Deck space. Our fully-enclosed, climate-controlled space is ideal for any event throughout the year. Boasting a large built-in bar and comfortably accommodating up to 50 guests, this versatile space guarantees an enchanting experience for any occasion. 1804 S. Ninth Street Located in Historic Soulard St. Louis, MO 63104 314-621-9598 info@pattylongcatering.com | www.pattylongcatering.com

Home Wine Kitchen

Located in historic Maplewood, this is the ideal venue for showers, luncheons, anniversaries, birthdays and rehearsal dinners. We know how stressful event planning can be, so please let Executive Chef Cassy Vires and our staff take care of all of the details to ensure your special event is a success! Our event space can accommodate up to 55 people for a seated meal or cocktail party. While we specialize in family style cuisine, we can provide buffet, plated meals or hors d’oeurves receptions. 7322 Manchester Rd. Maplewood, MO 63143 (314) 802-7676 | privateevents@homewinekitchen.com

Gian Tony’s Three separate dining rooms that seat up to 30, 40 or 60 people Ability to pick out your own menu • Authentic, Sicilian food No room rental fee • No food and beverage minimums Experienced, knowledgeable staff Flexible menu options • Open 7 nights a week 314.772.4893 5356 Daggett Avenue | St. Louis, MO 63110 www.gian-tonys.com

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Marketplace cakes & confections Chocolate Fountain Affair Delightful…Decadent…and Entertaining. And for that something “extra” add our new Chocolate Shot machine with our gourmet sipping chocolate. Why not have a chocolate fountain and a shot machine for your dessert table. What a delicious way to treat your guests! 636-230-6763 www.chocolatefountainaffair.com

Caterers & rehearsal dinner Villa Farotto We offer full service catering at 15 venues and can also cater at other locations of your choice. We cover every detail such as rentals, flowers, entertainment, and of course menu selection and type of service. We have two restaurant locations for rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and showers. Call us to setup a tasting and we can assist you with venue selection at the same time. www.villafarotto.com 17417 Chesterfield Airport Rd, Chesterfield MO 63005 636-519-0048

designers/planners Dishy Event Planning Offering month-of, full planning and customized packages for brides in the greater St. Louis area. Find us on twitter @dishyevents. www.dishyevents.com 2042 Geyer Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63104 314.246.9148 Lucky You Productions Lucky You Productions is a unique full-service wedding production AND florist/design house. With more than 15 years’ experience, we can accommodate full wedding planning, day of coordination, wedding design and all-inclusive floral production. We believe that every wedding should be extraordinary. Therefore, you can mix and match the services that fit your needs. www.luckyyoustl.com 2901 Macklind Ave. Saint Louis, MO 63139 314-588-0073 Plume Event Planning We are a full-service wedding and event coordination company. Services range from design to coordination to planning in order to guarantee every last detail is being handled. www.plumeeventplanning.com Twitter @PlumeByYara 314-814-7637

Megan Hawkins Harpist Imagine the elegant sounds of the harp as you walk down the aisle. Specializing in harp, sound, and DJ services for your big day. www.meganhawkins.org megrhawkins@gmail.com 314.529.1854 Rockstar DJs Have the reception your guests rave about for years to come! Relax and enjoy your reception with the most talented, professional DJs in the St. Louis area. www.rockstardjstl.com, 314-518-2407 Spectrum Band St. Louis’ Premier Variety Dance Band. Voted “Best Band in St. Louis” by local wedding experts for two years in a row! Great web site including schedule 14140 Conway Road, 314-434-7153 www.spectrumband.net Steel Drum Flavor Caribbean Island Music Caribbean steel drum music will provide you with that unique, island flair for your destination wedding. www.steeldrumflavor.com 873 Longacre Dr Suite C St Louis, MO 63132 314-485-9541

Fun Photo Events Thinking of a photo booth for your special day? We are a family owned and operated photo booth rental company that works with the budget conscious bride to offer the best all-inclusive packages out there. Mention this ad and receive 15% off any wedding package. www.funphotoevents.com 6729 Wynfield Terrace Drive, St. Louis, MO 63129 314-293-9231 Kling Kamera Booth Kling Kamera Booth offers an exciting entertainment option for your next celebration! We promise to make your event picture perfect with all the personal touches: customized graphics, CD of all the images, props, and professional attendants on hand at all times. Your guests will be talking about this exciting addition for years to come! www.klingkamerabooth.com 314-458-3364 or 314-494-7560

PHOTOGRAPHY Memories Are Forever Offers a mix of photojournalistic style images with traditional photography. www.MemoriesAreForever.com 1568 Ross Ave, St. Louis, MO 63146 314-878-5657 wphotography Interesting, illustrative images and well-designed wedding albums. wphoto@htc.net facebook.com/wphotostl www.w-photography.net 603 N. Main, Columbia, IL 66236 618.281.7558

TKO DJs Over 25 years in business. Every TKO wedding reception is custom-tailored to each couple’s wishes. Visit our website: www.tko-djs.com, 314-647-3000

Kurtis Hall Photographer Timeless and creative storytelling captured with a simplistic, yet artful eye. 2019 Lilly Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110 314.323.0811 www.kurtishall.com

FLORists

Real Estate

Elegant Celebrations. Elegant, European, Classic, Contemporary—there’s a perfect look for every bride. Let us create your Signature Style wedding. MO: 314-993-1717 IL: 618-344-1901 www.elegantcelebrationsstl.com

hospitality gifts

I Take This Home Let our Expert Team of professionals help you find your first home! Katie, Nicki and Peter combine years of experience in the Real Estate and Lending fields. Up to $5,000 in first time buyer money! Email itakethishome@gmail.com for more info or visit www.facebook.com/itakethishome

Vom Fass The premier source for the highest quality European imported oils, vinegars, brandies, whiskies, and liqueurs. Stop in to sample all items and allow a knowledgeable staff member to find truly memorable gifts for the bride or groom. Our delicious products come in a variety of sizes, perfect for wedding favors or wedding party gifts. Consider starting your bachelor/bachelorette party with a private tasting of cocktails. Let us help make your special day even more unforgettable! 7314 Manchester Rd. 314-932-5262

registry

OFFICIATES

O.C.Tan 2 U O.C. Tan 2 U is the premier airbrush tanning service in St. Louis. We hand spray and customize each and every tan. www.octan2ustl.com 5350 Devonshire Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63109 314-808-1680

Personal Touch Weddings Make your wedding vows as personal & unique as your love. We’ll create a ceremony for you or assist your creative impulses. Include children, extended family, blended family – interfaith, nondenominational, civil services – your choice of locations. You provide the love, we provide the personal touch. personaltouchweddings.net 314.426.4268

All Couples Married. We perform your ceremony your way, anywhere. Our non-denominational clergy/officiates work with you to create the ceremony you want. 314-781-0444 www.allcouplesmarried.com

ENTERTAINMENT/MUSIC

PHOTO booth rental

CJ’s Disc Jockey Service Your Vision & Style. Your Dream Come True. Professional Entertainment for Your Celebration. www.cjsdiscjockeyservice.com 5013 Warren Road, Imperial, MO 63052 314-892-0329

Marquis Photo Booth Make your event even more memorable with a photo booth! Mention this ad for $100.00 off 3 or more hours. www.marquisphotobooth.com 314.365.9118

Complete Music.Video.Photo North America’s most popular DJ service. Offering a one stop shop for DJ, Video, Photo, MEGA Photo Booth and Up-Lighting to make your wedding day a Complete experience! www.CompleteStLouisDJ.com 314.991.5656

PartyFace Photo Booth PartyFace rents traditional photo booths & “openair” style booths. External slideshows, custom graphics, and instant upload to Facebook and e-mail provide more entertainment for your guests. www.partyfacephotobooth.com PO Box 31361, Des Peres, MO 63131 314-222-0052

Bella Bridal Network We believe the strength in America is found in the strength of our families & a valuable way to serve our customers is by enhancing their lifestyles & making it easier for them to come back to the dinner table. www.bellabridalnetwork.com 866-832-7792

salon/spa

VIDEOGRAPHY Creative Video Services Voted the best video company by St. Louis Brides, we create works of art in a discreet and professional manner capturing every emotion so you can enjoy it forever in the highest quality video and sound. International Award Winners. Discreet, Elegant, Distinctive and Creative. www.creativevideostl.com 314.317.9228 The Perfect Image of St. Louis Cherish your special day forever with a creative and professional video. Package options for all budgets! www.theperfectimageofstlouis.com 5014 Grace Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 314.662.4862

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Bridal Show Invite you to the 16th Annual Wedding Connection

4VOEBZ +BOVBSZ t 'SPN QN UP QN The Chase Park Plazaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Khorassan Ballroom 212 North Kingshighway, Central West End

Designer Fashion Show Hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ouevres Music & Prizes

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unveiled!

catching up with the insiders who make St. Louis weddings work

saint louis bride AND CES & JUDY'S CATERING Merry & Bite Holiday Luncheon December 11, 2012 Ces & Judy’s at Le Chateau

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wish upon a weddinG Blissful Wishes Ball December 2, 2012 Ameristar Casino Resort Spa

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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Abbie Takes Pictures Grand Opening July 29 & 31, 2012 7370 Manchester in Maplewood

ARTISTRY FLORIST Grand Opening November 18, 2012 2734 LaSalle Street

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SIMPLY ELEGANT BRIDAL Grand Re-Opening November 29, 2012 1004 Olive Street

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Ashley LaPoint & Ryan Geringer June 16, 2012 • The Chase Park Plaza 256

parting shot

www.bridestl.com • SPRING/SUMMER 2013

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DREAM. CLICK. DONE.

bridestl.com

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