Weddings TALLAHASSEE
SPRING 2020
6 stunning Real Weddings
Inspiring Styled Shoots Advice from the Pros 1
in this issue 4 LOVE YOU TO THE MOON INSPIRED SHOOT 8 HIRING THE BEST WEDDING VENDORS 10 THREE REAL ENGAGEMENTS 10 STUART + MAIRIN 12 CONNOR + KYLIE 14 PATRICK + KATY 16 MATCHMAKER GUIDE 20 SIX REAL WEDDINGS 20 DAVID + JAMIE 24 CLIFF + KAITLYN 28 MATT + TYLER 34 AJ + SHARON 38 TYLER + RACHEL 42 ERIC + CHRISTIE 30 SETTING YOUR FLOWER BUDGET 46 INSPIRED SHOOTS 46 MOODY ROMANCE 48 MODERN GLAM 50 CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS 56 FALL INTO LOVE 54 TIPS FOR A KILLER BEST MAN SPEECH 60 VENDOR DIRECTORY
follow us @tawpweddings
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to our
couples
C
ongratulations on your upcoming wedding! We are so excited to share the 2020 edition of Tallahassee Weddings with you. This issue showcases our members’ talented work, which will inspire you and be a resource while planning your wedding.
Laura Henry President | Lead Editor
The Tallahassee Association of Wedding Professionals is an outstanding organization of the area’s premiere wedding vendors. We have over 50 local wedding professionals who are vetted to have high standards in their work, ethics and commitment to their clients. Our goal is to ensure your planning process is stress-free and that your wedding is unforgettable from start to finish. Our members offer a wealth of local knowledge, expertise and years of working together in Tallahassee and surrounding areas! We invite you to explore the real engagements, weddings and inspired styled shoots in the following pages and see how our members’ combined talents can turn your dreams into reality. THE TALLAHASSEE ASSOCIATION OF WEDDING PROFESSIONALS
Emily Chandler Vice President | Layout + Design Diane Bardhi
Treasurer
Kylene Gay
Corresponding Secretary Katie Butler
Recording Secretary Kate Pararo
Director
Charlotte Fristoe
Director
loved MOST
ON INSTAGRAM in 2019 @terrismithphoto
@charlottefristoephotography
@kyrystudios
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inspired shoot
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to the
LOVE YOU MOON BRICKS & BRASS
Pantone may say that the 2020 Color of the Year – Classic Blue – is calm, but we disagree. Classic Blue is a showstopper! We paired it with jewel tones and gold for even more eye-catching inspiration. Vibrant florals are mixed with edgy elements. Paired with the elegant industrial décor of the venue is the perfect union! And, as our way of giving back to a local nonprofit, we teamed up with Tallahassee’s Animal Shelter Foundation. Adoptable Clover (who graces the back cover) won our hearts and we’re hoping she finds a forever home soon!
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vendors PLANNER: Samantha Nicole Weddings PHOTOGRAPHERS: Brittany Morgan Photography, Charlotte Fristoe Photography BEAUTY: Laura J Artistry FLORALS: A Country Rose Florist RENTALS: At Last Florals EP Luxe Terri Smith Details Fairytales Event Rentals CHARCUTERIE DISPLAY: Bricks & Brass Catering CAKE: Artistic Confections DESSERT DISPLAY: Andrew’s Catering STATIONERY: Poppie Studios PHOTO BOOTH + NEON SIGN: Smile in Style TRANSPORTATION: Pro Limo UP-LIGHTING: Abernathy Entertainment VIDEOGRAPHER: Unique Video Creations FURRY MODEL: Clover with Animal Shelter Foundation
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for
tips
KATE PARARO A Piece of Cake Event Planning
hiring the best wedding vendors
I’ve worked with a fair share of wedding professionals in the area. It is so important for couples to hire a professional wedding vendors that they can trust and know will provide honest services. Choosing a good vendor can alleviate a lot of stress and unnecessary worry on your wedding day. Here are a few tips to help you find the best vendors for your special day.
Another good question to ask is if their profession is their full time work and only job? Do they have other jobs that would pull them from being 100% committed to you? Also, ask yourself if you are impressed by their work.
The first vendor that couples often hire is their wedding planner. The wedding planner of course First and most important are the things to look for will save hours of scouring websites and attending when hiring a wedding vendor. You want to hire shows to find the perfect venue and the best vendors. someone who is competent, reliable and a real They will also help the couple stay on track and not professional in their field. Look at their experience, miss any details. However, a full service wedding training and recent work. How long have they been planner is sometimes not in the budget and if that’s in the industry? How many weddings have they (continued on next page) personally been a part of, and where and how have they learned their profession? Do you want someone who just started their business or someone that has earned their reputation with years of experience?
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the case the couple will need to select their date and venue first. Most event planning companies provide wedding planning package options. With my company we provide three different wedding packages, with some providing more planning involvement than others. A lot of couples just need the weekend of help and that is an option too. The best way to research potential wedding professionals is to meet with them. Look at their recent work, ask for references and know that a vendor’s best reflection of their work is what their past clients had to say about them. A good way to find out more about a vendor is to ask other wedding vendors. Other vendors in the area can be a great resource. When selecting a vendor, make sure you review their contract and know what items you should see on this contract. Make sure all the who’s, what’s, when’s and how’s are covered in any contract you sign. Specifically, look at hours of coverage that will be provided, product details if they are providing supplies, the name of the particular individual that will be providing the service if you have requested someone specifically; any cancellation policy and payment details including due dates and extra fees such as over-time and travel. Lastly, when selecting your wedding vendors it is important to hire the most reputable vendors. It is a good idea to hire someone who is in an organization such as TAWP. Every member of TAWP is licensed, insured and voted in by the membership. It is important to communicate all the details, timeline, and expectations you have for your wedding with your vendors. Make sure you have everything in writing and your wedding planner follow up with all wedding details prior to the wedding. I hope this helps as you feel more confident as you begin your wedding planning journey!
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real
engagement
STUART + MAIRIN PHOTOGRAPHER CHARLOTTE FRISTOE PHOTOGRAPHY WAKULLA SPRINGS
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real
engagement
CONNOR + KYLIE PHOTOGRAPHER KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY APALACHICOLA
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13
real
engagement
PATRICK + KATY PHOTOGRAPHER KRIS KIMEL PHOTOGRAPHY FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY
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3
brides
reviews f rom Matchmaker W H AT I S T H E M ATC H M A K E R ? TAWP’s Matchmaker event is unlike any other wedding event. Instead of communicating with a dozen different vendors and driving around town for meetings, come to our event and have a brief Meet & Greet with a variety of vendors. Basically, get your wedding planned in one evening! T H I N K O F I T L I K E S P E E D - DAT I N G . Take a seat and enjoy some refreshments, while Tallahassee’s best vendors come to you in a quiet, relaxing environment. They have information for you to take home and are always available for questions afterwards. Let’s make your vendor match at our next Matchmaker!
I had no idea what I was doing when I started wedding planning. I had been looking around online and on Facebook and saw a matchmaker event hosted by TAWP. I brought my grooms Aunt with me knowing that she would think of all the practical questions while I oohed and aahed at everything. We got to sit in one spot and sip champagne and feel like VIPS while all the vendors came to chat us up. It was way more chill than I thought it would be and most of us just talked like we had been old friends and got to look at each vendors work and hear what they love about weddings. When all was said and done we left with at least 3 vendors we knew we wanted to hire immediately and made so many great connections. Even when I called vendors further into the planning process they remembered meeting at the matchmaker event. Every single one of the TAWP vendors that we hired were incredible to work with and professional. I had 0 stress the day of the wedding (except holding in my ugly cry) thanks to all of our vendors. 16
- Melissa
I honestly don’t know what I would’ve done without TAWP! I went to the Matchmaker event and am so thankful I did! Not only did I feel like a special bride, I met amazing people! All my vendors came from TAWP. Kylene and Ryan made my fiance and I feel so comfortable when it came time for engagement photos, and my wedding photos are TO DIE FOR! Kate from A Piece of Cake helped me navigate and get my meetings set up, Amplify DJs did a great job with our weird music taste, Andrew’s created the PERFECT hybrid of southern meets new age appetizers, A Country Rose truly embraced my gothic theme and made simple yet stunning bouquets and centerpieces, Laura J Artistry made makeup trials an absolute blast. Overall, my wedding was stress free, all thanks to the businesses of TAWP.
- Macey
Wedding planning was more stressful than I had anticipated, and I had no idea where to get started. I heard about TAWP while trying on wedding gowns, and found out about an event that sounded like every bride’s dream come true: A matchmaker event (think speed dating), where you could sit in one spot and have multiple vendors come to you and talk with you one on one! There were no uncomfortable “hard sells”; the vendors just showed you their work product and talked to you about what you were looking for your big day! I took many vendor’s cards, and when I got home I was able to look them up and read reviews from other customers. It was a fantastic jumping off point, and I ended up hiring many of the vendors I had met with the day of that event. All of the TAWP vendors I hired were professional, courteous and wonderful, and they all had a part in making my wedding day stress-free and everything I hoped it would be!
- Samantha 17
We’re here to make your event
a piece of cake.
Leave the worry to us and just
enjoy
your event.
FRESHEST HIGHEST QUALITY FLORAL DESIGN acountryrose.com
|
250 E 6th Avenue
|
(850) 877-8294
Your wedding done right! We can't wait to serve you on the best day of your life!
Contact Paige at 239-595-4638 to get a quote today
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A Piece of Cake Event Planning apieceofcakeeventplanning.com @apoceventplanning
Our passion is helping you celebrate your love with a wedding that reflects your lifestyle, beliefs and customs Amanda, Officiant: 850-322-0911
At Last Florals All Inclusive Floral & Wedding Design Kristi Sanders AtLastFlorals.com | 850.519.2305 @atlastflorals Where you can have your cake and eat it too.
Maria Streety
Executive Pastry Chef • Wedding Cakes • Custom Cakes • Catering • Gourmet Cookies
850.577.3000
1712 Thomasville Road Located in Duval Plaza maria@tallahasseecakes.com www.tallahasseecakes.com
PERFECTING LIFE’S CELEBRATIONS Justin Chiricos, Owner 850-385-5953 | Cateringcaperssales@gmail.com | Cateringcapers.com
WE DDING & E L O PE MEN T PHO TO G RA PHE R FOR THE WILDLY IN LOVE. w w w. c h a r l o t t e f r i s t o e . c o m
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real
wedding
DAVID + JAMIE PHOTOGRAPHER BRITTANY MORGAN PHOTOGRAPHY
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“Compassion, which I would define as unconditional, is essential... so you might say, that we are encouraged to love� - Anakin Skywalker
tawp
vendors
BEAUTY: Laura J Artistry MUSIC: Amplify FLORIST: At Last Florals PLANNER: Sweet Tea Events CATERER: Andrews Catering ATTIRE: Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe Jamie chose a color palette of burgundy & navy, with a splash of rose gold. Although rain threatened for most of the day, in typical Florida fashion, it held off until the reception started. It was a gorgeous day! They had small details to showcase their love for Star Wars. Their team of hand-picked TAWP vendors worked together seamlessly to create a beautiful day for them.
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Bricks &Brass FEATURING DOWNTOWN TALLAHASSEE’S NEWEST WEDDING & EVENT SPACE
850 422 4200
www.fourpointstally.com
316 West Tennessee Street, Tallahassee FL 32301
kris kimel P H OTO G R AP H Y 850.766.9314
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kriskimelphotography.com
Te r r i S m i t h P h o t o
INVITATION S
calligraphy |signs
sweet dreamy weddings
POP P I E
Studios
www.terrismithphoto.com
laurajartistry.com
|
250 E 6th Avenue
You are the
definition of beauty. |
PoppieStud i o s.com
K AT I E B U T L E R 850-800-7267
(850) 443-8746
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real
wedding
CLIFF + KAITLYN PHOTOGRAPHER CHARLOTTE FRISTOE PHOTOGRAPHY
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“Like a river flows surely to the sea, Darling so it goes, Some things are meant to be...” - Elvis Presley
tawp
vendors
PLANNER: Samantha Nicole Weddings OFFICIANT: A Beautiful Wedding in Florida BEAUTY: Laura J Artistry ATTIRE: Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe FLORIST: A Country Rose MUSIC: Amplify CATERER: Catering Capers BAKERY: Artistic Confections After choosing a venue in south Georgia, Kaitlyn and Cliff planned an elegant southern wedding with a special guest appearance from their fur baby. When looking through her gallery for the first time Kaitlyn noted that, “Reagan (their dog) means the world to us so including her in our wedding was something we’ll never forget.”
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Rustic and private, yet minutes from Tallahassee!
Rustic and private, yet minutes from Tallahassee!
Lewiswood Farm offers a climate controlled, all-wood barn in a picturesque, secluded setting with several outdoor ceremony sites, including the newest, and most unique, “Isla Falls.”
Lewiswood Farm offers beautiful land and a new barn with indoor and outdoor spaces for your wedding!
www.lewiswoodfarm.com
www.lewiswoodfarm.com
850.339.5799
LongsPhotography.com
Make Your Special Event Historic With Us Contact us today at 850.245.6402 or rentals@missionsanluis.org for more information or to schedule your site visit. We know you will fall in love with what we have to offer!
www.missionsanluis.org
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“Perry was an amazing DJ! Our wedding was so much fun and he played a major role in making that happen! He knew when to get people up and moving and kept the flow of the evening perfect.” - Paige www.tallahasseeweddingdj.com | nfedjs@gmail.com
Natural & Historic A
WEDDING VENUE
THE LODGE AT WAKULLA SPRINGS (15 Minutes from downtown Tallahassee)
Weddings from 20 - 150 guests Call (850) 421-2000 Email Michelle.Laxton@GuestServices.COM TheLodgeatWakullaSprings.COM @LodgeAtWakulla
@LodgeatWakulla
@lodgeatwakulla
GSI20_WAK_Ad_TallahasseeAssociation_3-8629x5-15_20200116.indd 1
2/6/2020 12:55:38 PM
Providing luxury wedding transportation for over 20 years
&
Alterations Studio Sewing Academy
ProLimoTallahassee.com ProLimoTally@gmail.com
Remember, when it’s time to go, call the Pro!
info@TheCoutureSeamstress.com 850-766-4028
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real
wedding
MATT + TYLER PHOTOGRAPHER KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY
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“Yours is the light by which my spirit’s born: yours is the darkness of my soul’s return, you are my sun, my moon, and all my stars.” - E.E. Cummings, #38
tawp
vendors
ATTIRE: Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe TRANSPORTATION: Pro Limo
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for
tips
setting a reali stic
flower budget
ANNETTE MCGUFFEY A Country Rose
We love weddings and are so delighted that you are engaged. Congratulations! When it comes to flowers, your florist is the expert. Hiring a professional to design your wedding flowers is so important and will make your wedding day run smooth and seamless.
Things to bring to your meeting are inspiration pictures, color swatches, and pictures of the ceremony and reception location.
S E T T I N G Y O U R B U D G E T: Everyone has seen the elaborate wedding flower It is recommended that you set up a flower displays on Pinterest. Though very inspiring and consultation 6 months or more before your wedding. beautiful, the question is, are they in my budget? Knowing your wedding venue and color palette is The first thing is to decide on a flower budget. Letting very helpful. Keep in mind if you are choosing a your florist know this will help them with pricing and well known florist, you may need to pre-book for setting realistic goals for your wedding flowers. March or October weddings, these are florist busiest (continued on next page) months for weddings and fill up fast.
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Most brides have no idea how to set their budget for flowers because they are unfamiliar with flower pricing. The average cost for wedding flowers is $1500.00 - $5500.00. SAMPLE BUDGET: Brides Bouquet: $195 Bridesmaids Bouquet: $95 Boutonniere: $20 Corsages: $40 Ceremony decor: $2,000 Centerpieces: $125 T R U S T Y O U R F L O R I S T: Trust your florist’s suggestions when it comes to flower types and availability. When working with a professional florist, they will know what is season and what is not. If you are wanting purple tulips in July this would be almost impossible. So let them make suggestions and substitutions as needed to make your bouquets beautiful. TIME OF YEAR: Not only does the time of year affect the flowers that are available and the cost, it also affects the life of your flowers. The summer in Florida can be extremely hot and unforgiving for your cut beauties. If you are planning an outside wedding in the summer understand you may have wilting flowers, especially if your ceremony site is in full sun during set up and/or wedding time. Even in the winter months it can be close to 80 degrees. It is best to pick a location that is shaded as much as possible if you are doing fresh flowers in your outside decor. R E N TA L S : Your florist will have vases, compotes, led candles, candlestick and ceremony structures for rent, lowering your cost. Are you looking for gold compotes, gold candlesticks, or an arch for your wedding decor? The cost to purchase these can be astronomical. Renting these items will save you time and money. We hope that you will have a joyous time as you plan and create the wedding of your dreams!
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expert advice
from
3
indu str y pros
Amanda Reeves
Kylene Gay
Photographer | Kylene & Ryan Studios “Work with your photographer on your timeline, and even your ceremony start time. They will be able to guide you on the timing of things based on the best lighting of the day and what your hopes are for your pictures!”
Officiant | A Beautiful Wedding in Florida “Your wedding ceremony is a special moment between you and your partner. It’s okay to be nervous but remember it’s not a theatrical production that people have paid to come see so it doesn’t have to be perfect - ENJOY the moment. Your guests are your closet family and friends and they are their to support you not to judge your performance”
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Rachel Graham
Accommodations | Hilton Garden Inn Tallahassee “If you’re expecting out of town guests, it’s always helpful to work with the on-site Sales team at a hotel to set up a courtesy group block.”
AWESOME
PHOTO BOOTHS
www.smileinstyleevents.com | 850.508.0998 Printing Booth The package comes with unlimited print sessions, backdrop, props, custom overlay, free memory book, Smugmug gallery, texting or emailing of photos, and two attendants.
The Social Media Booth This station does Gif, Boomerang, Single photos, Bursts, digital props and filters, custom overlay, SmugMug gallery, texting or emailing of photos.
Social Media Booth
Printing Booth
K AT I E B U T L E R 850-800-7267
Custom Hashtags - $20.00 Custom LED NEON Signs
For Your Big Day, Go the Extra Smile!!
C R E AT I N G H AN D -TO - H E ART MOMENTS
OWNER AND LEAD WEDDING & EVENT DESIGNER
www.samanthanicoleweddings.com
Diane and her experienced
team love brewing up fresh ideas for weddings that are expressly your own.
www.sweetteatallahassee.com
diane@sweetteatallahassee.com
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real
wedding
AJ + SHARON PHOTOGRAPHER KYLENE & RYAN STUDIOS
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“Our wedding was perfection! We’re forever grateful to the amazing professionals at TAWP who made our vision a reality.” - The Irish’s
tawp
vendors
PLANNER: Samantha Nicole Weddings FLORIST: A Country Rose MUSIC: Amplify CATERER: Social Catering STATIONERY: Poppie Studios RENTALS: Terri Smith Details, Fairytale Event Rentals and EP Luxe Sharon said that her family church in Tallahassee felt most like “home”, and when she envisioned walking down the aisle, she knew it had to be here. Their vendor team delivered the reception of their dreams with a gorgeous lavender and green space, complete with hanging greenery and purple uplighting.
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Where The Little Things Mean Everything..
thlap_ds@hilton.com 850.521.6001
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101 South Adams Street Tallahassee, FL 32301
TALL AHASSEE
There are two things people will always remember about a wedding: the bride and the food.
Beverly & Lincoln Rich • info@klassickatering.com Full Service Catering and Event Planning • (850)894-0423 Long’s Photography
expert advice from
3
indu str y pros
Katie Butler
Catering | Social Catering & Events “Really think about the style of your wedding when it comes to food and have that in mind during your consultation. This will help the catering team customize a truly unique experience for your big day!”
Debra Lewis
Venue | Lewiswood Farm “Select the venue that reflects your personality first... then choose from dates available. A couple’s venue will be one of the couple’s most important decisions and most memorable selections.”
Maria Streety
Bakery | Artistic Confections “Make sure you schedule a cake tasting. This will allow you to meet the cake artist and talk one-on-one about your likes or dislikes. Most importantly, it will give you a chance to taste the cake. You will also be able to familiarize yourself with their work and make sure that they are a right fit for you. You can take this time to ask questions and discuss your options.”
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real
wedding
TOM + RACHEL PHOTOGRAPHER LONG’S PHOTOGRAPHY
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“We envisioned an elegant, yet joyful event filled with small touches that were uniquely us. This was even reflected in our favors; a bottle of bourbon featuring her last name and a jar of jam featuring his last name. Both were accompanied by a recipe to pair them together in a delicious cocktail� - Rachel Barton
tawp
vendors
MUSIC: Amplify BAKERY: Artistic Confections VIDEOGRAPHER: Unique Video Creations RENTALS: Terri Smith Details
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expert advice
from
3
indu str y pros
Terri Smith
Photographer | Terri Smith Photo “For photography, whatever the time is for sunset, subtract about 15 to 20 minutes from this. Tall trees and buildings will diminish the golden light faster.”
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Diane Roberts
Rentals | Party Party Party “Book your wedding rentals early so you have the comfort of knowing you have reserved your spot on the rental companies schedule. Adjustments can be made to the rental order when a final RSVP guest count is finalized.”
Perry Dollinger
Music | North Florida Express DJ’s “The music and entertainment enhances your special day. Always remember to let your entertainer know prior to the wedding day ‘your’ favorite type of genre of music so that the entertainer can insure its part of “your” special day!”
preppy hampton e vent rental s
Why worry about all of the details when we have everything you need right here and at no extra cost! A wedding at Golden Eagle is simple, stress free and more affordable than you think!
www.terrismithdetails.com
Terri Smith Photography
(850) 893-7700 | www.goldeneaglecc.org
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real
wedding
ERIC + CHRISTIE PHOTOGRAPHER TERRI SMITH PHOTO
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As Christie and Eric were standing at the alter getting ready to exchange rings, raindrops started to fall. One of the wedding guests jumped into action and held an umbrella over Christie so that she could continue to focus on Eric.
tawp
vendors
ATTIRE: Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe RENTALS: Terri Smith Details BAKERY: Artistic Confections CATERER & BARTENDER: Catering Capers VIDEOGRAPHER: Unique Video Creations MUSIC: Amplify Maggie May was the flower puppy and brought everyone to their knees on how cute she was! During the reception, we asked DJ Zac to play “Who Let the Dogs Out”. The father of the bride grabbed Maggie May and they hit the dance floor to show everyone their moves. It was one of the many hits of the wedding day.
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expert advice from
10
Charlotte Fristoe
Photographer | Charlotte Fristoe Photography
“Leave the production to the pros. That way you can focus on how you can have an incredible wedding day experience that isn’t stressful or forced. That’s when the real magic happens!”
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indu str y pros
We asked 10 veteran wedding professionals to share some pointers and key advice. Remember these tips as you plan your big day!
Emily Chandler
Stationery | Poppie Studios “Custom doesn’t have to mean expensive. You’ll be amazed how much those ‘do-it-yourself’ invitation sites actually cost. More than likely your invitations still won’t be exactly what you envision. And they don’t tell you that different sized invitations require more postage either. Postage adds up!”
Katie Butler
Venue | The Gathering “Go see different venues and look at photos from previous events. You’ll know it’s your space when you find it!”
Skipp Lowell
Caroll Ortega
Transportation | Pro Limo Tallahassee
Accommodations | Four Points / Bricks & Brass
“Read Reviews. When researching limo companies that you are interested in, before making an appointment to view vehicles or speaking to a company representative, check their reviews. No need in wasting your time with a company that has bad reviews. This goes for any vendors, not just limo companies.”
“Planning a wedding can be stressful, but choosing a venue that includes everything you need makes staying organized a breeze!”
Kristi Sanders
Florist | At Last Florals “Be authentically you! Getting lost in the latest trends + pins is easy but if you stay true to who you are as a couple then all of the elements that are crucial to a successful wedding (vendors + ambiance + styling) come together with ease.”
Tina Abernathy
Music | Abernathy Entertainment “If you hire a DJ to play music for your ceremony, plan the DJ’s start time for 20 to 30 minutes prior to the start of the ceremony to play prelude music as guests arrive and are seated. This will signal your guests that it’s time to be seated and make their wait more enjoyable.”
Laura Henry
Beauty | Laura J Artistry “Plan your trial for a day when you have a dress fitting, shower, engagement session or other event. That way you can see how your look lasts and feels with lots of pictures!”
Amanda Reeves
Officiant | A Beautiful Wedding in Florida “Your wedding ceremony is a special moment between you and your partner. It’s okay to be nervous but remember it’s not a theatrical production that people have paid to come see so it doesn’t have to be perfect - ENJOY the moment. Your guests are your closet family and friends and they are their to support you not to judge your performance”
Cara Varn
Caterer | Andrew’s Catering “Create the top five ‘Must Haves’ for your wedding. Champagne toast? Line Dance? 5-Star Food Service? Choosing vendors with the experience to deliver your ‘Must Haves’ flawlessly will ensure your day will shine.”
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inspired shoot
MOODY
romance
THE GATHERING
Looking for something boldly different? Love to play with art, fashion, and glam? If this sounds like you, we bet you’re going to swoon over the dark royal colors and creative textures in this inspired shoot. Gorgeous statement florals capture the eye and set the tone. The industrial, modern vibe of this venue, paired with dramatic colors, gives an intimate and dynamic wedding like none other. 46
vendors PHOTOGRAPHERS Brittany Morgan Photography, Charlotte Fristoe Photography, Kay Meyer Photography, Kylene & Ryan Studios PLANNER: Samantha Nicole Weddings CATERER + BAR: Social Catering BAKERY: Artistic Confections FLORIST: A Country Rose RENTALS: EP Luxe, Fairytales Events & Rentals ATTIRE: Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe BEAUTY: Laura J Artistry STATIONERY: Poppie Studios VIDEOGRAPHER: Unique Video Creations
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MODERN
glam
THE GATHERING
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There are few events that lead to elegance, glamour and beauty like a wedding. Coco Chanel herself agreed: “I have said that black has it all. White too. Their beauty is absolute. It is the perfect harmony.� With her in mind, we celebrate the gorgeous color of white. The way the orchids create perfect balance with glass to have a striking effect. Lovely candlelight and unique touches transformed this venue into glamorous inspiration for your day.
vendors PHOTOGRAPHERS: Brittany Morgan Photography, Charlotte Fristoe Photography, Kay Meyer Photography, Kylene & Ryan Studios PLANNER: A Piece of Cake Event Planning CATERER + BAR: Social Catering
BAKERY: Artistic Confections FLORIST: Posh Stems
RENTALS: EP Luxe, Fairytales Events & Rentals ATTIRE: Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe BEAUTY: Laura J Artistry
OFFICIANT: A Beautiful Wedding in Florida STATIONERY: Poppie Studios
VIDEOGRAPHER: Unique Video Creations TRAVEL: DND Escapes
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inspired shoot
CELEBRATE
the HOLIDAYS
SHILOH FARM BARN & CHAPEL
Cate Blanchett said it best, “I look forward to the holiday season every year.” We know Cate isn’t the only one so we wanted to showcase the fun you can have when planning a festive wedding! From the glittery sparkle on the tablecloths to sparkler invitations we know you can get in touch with the holiday spirit. Shiloh Farm made a perfect location to show off these unique touches. Besides – who can resist a firework show? 50
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vendors PLANNER: Sweet Tea Events
PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kylene and Ryan Studios, Charlotte Fristoe Photography PYROTECHNICS: Ashley Pyrotechnics ATTIRE: Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe BEAUTY: Laura J Artistry
FLORIST: A Country Rose Florals TRANSPORTATION: Pro Limo
VIDEOGRAPHY: Unique Video Creations STATIONERY: Poppie Studios
RENTALS: Terri Smith Details, Party Party Party
MUSIC + UPLIGHTING: Abernathy Entertainment CATERERS: Catering Capers, Four Rivers
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for
tips
NATE LONG Amplify
giving killer best man speeches
You’ve known each other for years and, with every adventure, your relationship has solidified into something special. Now the day has finally come where he pops the question; “Will you be my best man?” Some tease that marriage is the death of a bachelor, so consider your toast as your groom’s eulogy. So how do you capture his life up to this point in a way that won’t concern his mom or bore your friends? But don’t worry — follow these four best man toast tips and you’ll do just fine! 1. LONG & SHORT VERSIONS Trust me; you’ll want both for a best man toast. You can never guess what your audience is gonna be like until the day of, even if you personally know everyone; the emotions of the day affect everyone differently. Are folks dancing to the dinner music?
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They wanna get on the dance floor, and your toast is one of the last things standing in their way. Is your groom the first to get married in his family, and Mom is looking misty-eyed? Incorporate more childhood stories, and let them reminisce for a bit longer. Whatever your style, know and adjust to your crowd’s expectations, and you’ll have them ’em on your side! 2. RELEVANT JOKE Nothing puts folks at ease like humor. Up to this point, it’s been a happy but pretty stressful day, and (continued on next page)
everyone could probably stand to blow off some steam. Help wedding guests do that with a relevant joke in your toast, and you’ll be a hero. The key word here is relevant, though. Think of what makes your groom laugh and what will get you in the least amount of trouble with his bride. Now toasting your groom does not mean roasting your groom, but poking a little fun is almost expected. Just don’t rely on it. Also, try and avoid unexplained inside jokes that only two or three people will laugh at — to everyone else, it will be awkward. 3. TWO SHORT STORIES This isn’t an exact science; the idea is to help the guests get a hint of your groom’s full personality. It can be two or three quips or a full anecdote, but you should focus on what your groom is known for and how the stories in your toast can reflect that. While your focus is the groom, it’s also totally appropriate to give a shoutout to the bride. What was your perspective of your best friend’s new love interest when they first met? This can make for a great story as well. 4. EMOTIONAL HONESTY Depending on your personality, opening up like this is either the easiest or hardest part of your toast. Welcome it either way. Your toast has helped folks relax and reminisce, and you’re now in a position to end strong. Consider exactly what your friendship with the groom has meant to you and say it. The honesty you give is what will solidify your toast as awesome and memorable in the minds of the bride, groom and their wedding guests. 5. STRONG DELIVERY Hold that microphone nice and close! The truth is that while the best distance from your face is about 6 inches, most non-performers (meaning, you don’t do this on the daily/weekly) err on the side of holding it too far. Sometimes the mic also gradually fades away from your face and your voice gets softer… and softer. So we actually recommend that you err on the side of the mic being too close. 55
inspired shoot
FALL
into LOVE
MISSION SAN LUIS
Our TAWP vendors created three separate inspirations to match the changing seasons. Incorporating the green of spring, the romance in the air for Valentine’s Day, and the saturated hues of autumn are just a few ways to showcase the creative vision at this Spanish venue. Don’t be afraid to play with texture and plants to capture your vision with the help of the best vendors in town. 56
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vendors PHOTOGRAPHER: Kay Meyer Photography, Kylene & Ryan Studios PLANNER: A Piece of Cake Event Planning BAKERY: Artistic Confections CATERER: Social Catering
FLORIST: A Country Rose, At Last Florals
RENTALS: Fairytale Events & Rentals, Terri Smith Details STATIONERY: Poppie Studios
MUSIC + UPLIGHTING: Fire Entertainment
ATTIRE: Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe BEAUTY: Laura J Artistry
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MEMBER DIRECTORY attire
beauty
THE COUTURE SEAMSTRESS Delbra Percy www.thecoutureseamstress.com 850.766.4028
LAURA J ARTISTRY Laura Henry www.laurajartistry.com 850.443.8746
VOCELLES | THE BRIDAL SHOPPE Kristen Barstow www.vocellesbridal.com 850.841.7663
4RIVERS SMOKEHOUSE Paige Farmer www.4rsmokehouse.com 239.595.4638
accommodations HILTON GARDEN INN Rachel Graham www.hilton.com 850.574.4900
bakery ARTISTIC CONFECTIONS Maria Streety www.tallahasseecakes.com 850.577.3000
bartending TOP SHELF EVENTS Kristina Matheson www.topshelfevents.biz 850.567.6786 60
catering
ANDREWS CATERING Cara Varn www.andrewsdowntown.com 850.644.2767
CATERING CAPERS Justin Chiricos www.cateringcapers.com 850.385.5953
KLASSIC KATERING Beverly Rich www.klassickatering.com 850.894.0423
SOCIAL CATERING & EVENTS Katie Butler www.socialcateringandevents.com 850.228.6817
ceremony + reception site DONALD L. TUCKER CIVIC CENTER Bunny Nocera www.tuckerciviccenter.com 850.933.5328 GOLDEN EAGLE COUNTRY CLUB Madison Whittington www.goldeneaglecc.org 850.893.7700 GOVERNOR’S CLUB Nicole Carval www.govclub.com 850.205.0665 LEWISWOOD FARM Debra Lewis www.lewiswoodfarm.com 850.421.5039 MISSION SAN LUIS Maddison Woods www.missionsanluis.org 850.245.6495 SHILOH FARM Susanne Miller www.shilohevents.com 850-766-5902 (continued)
wedding vendors
Your premier Your source for premier in in the the Tallahassee, Tallahassee, Florida Florida area area
THE EDISON Kate Biel www.edisontally.com 863.605.1802
HOTEL DUVAL Brittany Wyman www.hotelduval.com 850.224.6136
THE GATHERING Katie Butler
THE LODGE AT WAKULLA SPRINGS Michelle Laxton thelodgeatwakullasprings.com 850.421.2000
www.gatheringtallahassee.com
850.228.6817
UNIVERSITY CENTER CLUB AND THE CHAMPIONS CLUB Pam Monnier www.clubcorp.com/Clubs/ University-Center-Club-atFlorida-State-University/Host-AnEvent/Weddings 850.644.9071
florist A COUNTRY ROSE Annette McGuffey www.acountryrose.com 850.877.8294
ceremony + reception site with lodging
AT LAST FLORALS Kristi Sanders www.atlastflorals.com 850.519.2305
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON TALLAHASSEE Alexandria English www.hilton.com/en/doubletree/ 850.521.6025
POSH STEMS Tangy Williams www.poshstemsco.com 850.567.4714
music ABERNATHY ENTERTAINMENT Tina Abernathy www.abernathydj.com 850.491.7270
AMPLIFY Nate Long www.amplifymyevent.com 850.508.8143
FIRE ENTERTAINMENT Marcus Anderson www.djfire116.com 305.761.4378
NORTH FLORIDA EXPRESS DJS Perry Dollinger www.tallahasseeweddingdj.com 850.567.8734
FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON TALLAHASSEE DOWNTOWN Beth Rodan www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ tlhfp-four-points-tallahasseedowntown/ 850.422.4202 (continued) 61
MEMBER DIRECTORY photographer BRITTANY MORGAN PHOTOGRAPHY Brittany Morgan Clark www.brittany-morgan.com 407.462.0549 CHARLOTTE FRISTOE PHOTOGRAPHY Charlotte Fristoe www.charlottefristoe.com 850.694.8910 INGA FINCH PHOTOGRAPHY Inga Finch www.ingafinchphotography.com 850.656.4642 KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY Kay Meyer www.kaymeyerphotography.com 850.510.7634 KRIS KIMEL PHOTOGRAPHY Kris Kimel www.kriskimelphotography.com 850.766.9314 KYLENE AND RYAN STUDIOS Kylene Gay www.kyleneandryan.com 850.778.5197 (continued) 62
LONG’S PHOTOGRAPHY Linda Long www.longsphotography.com 850.339.5799
TERRI SMITH PHOTO Terri Smith www.terrismithphoto.com 850.321.5609
photobooth SMILE IN STYLE EVENTS Kim Barlowe www.smileinstyleevents.com 850.508.0998
pyrotechnics ASHLEY PYROTECHNICS Craig Dennis www.ashleypyrotechnics.com 850.893.0091
officiant A BEAUTIFUL WEDDING IN FLORIDA
Amanda Doumanian Reeves abeautifulweddinginflorida.com 850.322.0911
rentals EP LUXE Tangy Williams www.epluxedesigns.com 850.509.8919
FAIRYTALES WEDDING & SPECIAL EVENT SERVICES Carolyn Langston www.fairytaleservices.com 850.524.1661
PARTY, PARTY, PARTY Kelly Roberts www.partytally.com 850.942.2155
TERRI SMITH DETAILS Terri Smith www.terrismithdetails.com 850.321.5609
stationery POPPIE STUDIOS Emily Chandler poppiestudios.com 850.728.3113
wedding vendors
Your source for premier in the Tallahassee, Florida area
transportation
wedding planners
my vendors
PRO LIMO TALLAHASSEE Skipp Lowell www.prolimotallahassee.com 850.408.0823
A PIECE OF CAKE EVENT PLANNING Kate Pararo www.apieceofcakeeventplanning.com 850.294.5143
Put a check mark next to each category after you book with your favorite vendor:
travel DND HONEYMOONS Karynn Gross www.dndescapes.com 850.597.8538
videographer UNIQUE VIDEO CREATIONS Krishna Singh www.uvc.tv 850.877.9010
notes
SAMANTHA NICOLE WEDDINGS Samantha Oppy www.samanthanicoleweddings.com 954.871.9076 SWEET TEA EVENTS Diane Bardhi www.sweetteatallahassee.com 850-228-0521
Attire Accommodations Bakery Bartending Beauty Catering Ceremony Reception Florist Music Photographer Photobooth Pyrotechnics Officiant Rentals Stationery Transportation Travel Videographer Wedding Planner
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Your source for premier
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wedding vendors
W W W . T A W P. O R G
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in the Tallahassee, Florida area
@ TA W P W E D D I N G S
