Nashville8 2013 flipbook by The Pink Bride

Experience the distinction of being a Bluegrass Bride.

Bluegrass

Y ac h t & C o u n t ry C lu b

Ceremonies Rehearsals

* *

Receptions Showers * B r i da l L u n c h e o n s

615.824.6528

550 East Main Street Hendersonville P at t i C o r n , P r i vat e E v e n t s D i r e c t o r pat t i . c o r n @ o u r c l u b . c o m w w w . b lu e g r a s s c o u n t ryc lu b . c o m

w w w . b l u e g r a s s p r i vat e e v e n t s . b l o g s p o t . c o m

Mention this ad and $200 off your room

receive rental

visit us online www.LegacyFarmsTN.com

call for a private showing

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Published by The Pink Bride P.O. Box 31568, Knoxville, TN 37930 865.531.3941

Congratulations on your engagement!

President Fred Jacob Fred@ThePinkBride.com

The Nashville Pink Bride magazine is here to help you with all your planning needs. Read the articles, get advice, and find ideas.

Vice President Allison Jacob

The entire Nashville Pink Bride magazine is online ( www.ThePinkBride. com ) so you can electronically look through the publication and when you see something of interest you can mouse over the url and connect straight to the site. This electronic feature means you can also share all or part of the magazine conveniently through the internet with family or friends all over the world. And do me a favor, if you make contact with the wedding professional listed throughout, make sure you mention that you saw them in The Nashville Pink Bride.

Contract Manager Donna Jacob Marketing Executive Anna Ferguson Marketing Assistant Tammy Hill

Planning your wedding is probably something you have thought about many times, and now it’s your turn. Use The Nashville Pink Bride magazine to locate dedicated and talented wedding professionals who truly want to help you with your wedding plans. Check out our new Wedding Resources guide in the front of the magazine.

Administrative Assistant Elizabeth Jones Production Manager Karen Tobias

As you will quickly learn there are lots of options. You should consider enlisting the services of a professional wedding planner. At the very least, consider hiring a day-of planner, to help coordinate the many details of the wedding day.

Social Media Director Andrea McKee

How can a wedding planner help you? They are familiar with the wedding professionals in the market, they have worked at many of the reception facilities and directed in many of the local churches. This knowledge is part of what you need to help plan your wedding and to make the right decisions. Your engagement and wedding will be one of the most exciting times in your life. With all the time and money involved with your wedding, a professional wedding planner can guide you through the decisions and details with grace and ease.

©2013 Jacob Marketing Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner without written permission of Jacob Marketing Inc. is strictly prohibited. All articles are property of Jacob Marketing, Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission from Jacob Marketing, Inc is strictly prohibited. Photographs used in The Pink Bride are provided and copyrighted by their respective owners and may not be reproduced without the owner’s permission. Jacob Marketing, Inc., dba The Pink Bride, is not responsible for any errors, misprints, misquotes, or omissions. All rights reserved.

Also, please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Allison Jacob and I am thrilled to join the Nashville Pink Bride team. I have recently transitioned to Nashville by way of Memphis where I launched The Pink Bride in 2005. Memphis continues to embrace all things Pink! If you have suggestions or ideas for future issues please let me know. My goal is that, through this magazine, your wedding experience will be the best! Enjoy many happy years together.

Allison Allison Jacob Vice President

See all of our products at ThePinkBride.com

Congrats to our Cover Finalists

Twila’s Photography

Blue Mason Photography

Candice Jones Photography

Ace Photography

Details Nashville

Contents

Connect with us for the best in Tennessee weddingsâ&#x20AC;Śdaily! https://www.facebook.com/ThePinkBrideCo

@pinkbrideco

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- Wedding Resources What do you still need to plan your wedding? Find local wedding vendors quickly by searching through alphabetized categories of popular wedding elements. Each wedding element is also grouped by color. Use the listing below to help you find a specific wedding vendor.

Beauty & Health

Flowers

Rentals & DĂŠcor

Bridal Salons

Music & Entertainment

Transportation

Cakes

Photo Booths

Tuxedo

Catering

Photography

Videography

Consultants

Receptions & Wedding Sites

Notes

Flower Preservation

Rehearsal Dinner

Beauty & Health BABE Beauty Bar

Geny’s Bridal

BABE Beauty Bar provides professional makeup application and hair services to the women of Nashville. Founded by Kathleen Smith Forbush and Nicole Payne, BABE (Beauty Always, Beauty Everywhere) is a tribute to vintage Hollywood while staying true to the modern woman seeking on-the-go beauty and impeccable service at affordable prices. Whether you’re seeking a fresh look, attending an event, or are in need of some fun, girlfriend bonding time, BABE is your personal vanity.

Geny’s Bridal is a small boutique salon dedicated to making your gown shopping experience as memorable as your wedding. We offer quality lines at affordable prices. Our experienced staff can embrace your vision for your perfect day and help you select the perfect gown for the occasion.

615.499.4554

615.269.0177

www.babebeautybar.com

Dr. David Gilpin

www.genysbridal.com

Low’s Bridal

Dr. Gilpin is double boarded in Facial Plastic Surgery and Ear, Nose and Throat. He has a gentle touch and a good eye for helping you to naturally look your best. In addition to surgery, Dr. Gilpin offers Botox®, Juvéderm®, Restylane®, Dysport® and Perlane® injections to help brides and their family look their very best for the most important day of their lives.

We look forward to helping you find the perfect gown that not only flatters your shape but reflects your own unique personality. For 29 years they have been recognized as a leader in style, selection, value & personal service throughout the bridal industry.

615.942.7301

870.734.3244

drdavidgilpin.com

www.lowsbridal.com

Cakes Magnolia Medical Center

Signature Cakes

We specialize in fast, safe and effective medical weight loss. Our expert medical staff helps patients achieve their ideal weight loss goals without hunger, harsh drugs, or heavy exercise. Our office specializes in preparing brides and their entire bridal party for their wedding day. Schedule your appointment today.

Making wedding cakes is more than baking and frosting cakes -- it is art that tells a story. When I design a wedding cake, I take ideas, colors, impressions, style, taste, and even beliefs from my brides and grooms to individualize their wedding celebration in cake. Of course, some grooms love to see their alma mater, a tractor, a hobby such as chess, or even a favorite hat made from cake. I am committed to the freshest, most high-quality ingredients for both my cakes and icings.

615.225.9100

615.513.2266

www.magnoliamedicalcenters.com

18, 99

www.signaturecakesbyvicki.com

Catering

Bridal Salons Bella Bridesmaid Nashville

Ambrosia Catering

Bella Bridesmaid Nashville provides bridesmaids with stylish, wearable and modern dresses at a variety of price points. The quaint and inviting boutique offers a refreshing departure from the usual bridesmaid experience. Book an appointment for personalized attention in finding the perfect chic designer dresses for your bridesmaids.

Delicious and bountiful, Ambrosia Catering has been creating extraordinary wedding memories for Nashville area brides for over 25 years. All of our bridal menus are customized to fit the flair and fantasies of our brides. From elegant dinners to casual Southern buffets, Ambrosia delivers with the expertise and ease only years of experience can bring.

615.383.8004

615.254.3783

www.bellabridesmaid.com

Bridal Warehouse

56-57

Celebrating over 20 years of service, we have grown to be one of the nation’s largest and most respected bridal stores. Featuring 1000’s of designer gowns, all from the worlds best Bridal Designers, straight from the New York & Chicago fashion markets. Designers such as Allure, Pronovias, Casablanca, Enzonia, Mori Lee, David Tutera and many more!

615.855.1005

www.usabridal.com

www.AmbrosiaCateringTN.com

Ideal Catering

Ideal Catering The ideal caterer for all your events

Family owned and operated serving the Nashville area successfully for the past 10 years with the freshest quality products and service. The Ideal Caterer for all your events.

615.977.1470 www.IdealCateringOfNashville.com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Enchanted Florist

In search of the ideal setting for your wedding event? Treat your guests to an unforgettable experience by hosting your event in our private dining space. At Ruth’s Chris Steak House, we treat every event with the utmost care and attention. Our team works with every bride, ensuring that each celebration stays true to your tastes and budget.

Enchanted Florist is YOUR premier wedding and event specialist. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and our willingness to listen to YOU, our client and turn YOUR dreams into a reality. We believe that EVERY bride is special and strive to make each and every wedding as unique and memorable as YOU are.

615.320.0163

615.859.9002

www.ruthschris.com

Consultants

www.enchantedfloristtn.com

Music & Entertainment

Details Nashville

Details Nashville is a full-service events business equipped to meet all of your wedding needs. With our extensive experience and widespread network we can ensure that you can be worry-free about the details of your special day! Give us a call and let us help plan your wedding!

The DJs at Details Nashville have the energy and experience to get a crowd on their feet. From the oldies to today’s top hits, we are equipped with archives of music from different eras and genres to fulfill whatever musical vibe you’re looking for. Give us a call today and let us get a feel for what you are looking for.

615.567.3850

www.DetailsNashville.com

Photo Booths HYPE Events, Inc

Ace Photobooths

HYPE Events is a full service Wedding & Event Planning Company, specializing in all aspects of design, management, and production. We ARE your planning solution for fully customized events. We are “Decorating on a Dime Divas,” creating events that are memorable, inspiring, budget friendly, and will exceed your expectations!

Party in style with Ace Photobooths, Hi-Res images, custom graphics, scrapbooks and prop packages. Now offering Nashville’s first Videobooth.

615.631.0727

615.415.7909

www.HypeEventsTn.com

acephotobooths.com

Flower Preservation Flowers Forever Inc.

With their state-of-the-art freeze-drying system Flowers Forever Inc. is able to preserve your floral arrangement so you may enjoy it for generations to come. Choose from a wide variety of frames and shadowboxes. Life-long memories start with Flowers Forever Inc. Call: Meghan Lederer at 865-385-0882, Linda Lawless at 615-9740450, or Peggy Lowe at 901-496-1707.

865.385.0882

www.flowersforeverinc.com

Kate Murphy Photography

We offer a unique and elegant photo booth designed to make your wedding celebration one to remember! We are proud to capture and share the touching, fun, and precious moments that you and your guest will never want to forget. Check us out to see all we have to offer!

615.567.3913

www.shutterbooth.com/Nashville

Photography

Flowers Branching Out Floral & Vintage Rentals

ShutterBooth Nashville

Ace Photography 84

Your wedding is the perfect opportunity to express your style..whether it is contemporary, traditional, earthy, vintage or somewhere in between. With our inventory of containers, vintage rentals and props, we can help you show your individuality. Allow our designers to translate your vision into a truly personal event.

Our passion for each of our couples drives our vision for unique and creative wedding photography. Although Nashville is our backyard and we have shot extensively at Tennessee’s most interesting locations, we love to adventure anywhere in the world you can imagine your dream wedding. We can’t wait to capture your wedding as art.

615.915.0043 www.branchingouteventflorist.com

615.851.2774

www.acephotographs.com

Photography Continued Blue Mason Photography

Focal Expressions by Ned

We believe that crafting photo sessions completely about you and what you love is important. Our goal is to create images that are as unique as the people we photograph. It is an honor to document such special moments in our clients’ lives and we are delighted to create timeless images for them!

Capturing love at its journey...through images we create memories to be shared for a life time. Your love and our passion for photography come together from the time we meet until the last moments on that special day. Nothing makes us happier than the opportunity to be a part of your special day.

615.335.6972

615.856.6200

www.bluemasonphotos.com

Brown Lab Photography

Photography says so much more than words can ever convey. We have a deep love of taking photographs, and uncovering the stories behind them. We are two Nashville photographers who feel that we have a lot to say. We firmly believe that our two sets of eyes and complementary styles will provide you with unforgettable photographs.

615.969.2440

www.brownlabphotography.com

Candice Jones Photography 33, Inside Back Cover We take time to focus on each client in order to capture images that not only represents their unique style, but will last a lifetime. At Candice Jones Photography each photographer is highly educated to ensure professional services that you can trust.

615.653.8061

candicejonesphotography.net

Catchy Photography

focalexpressions.com

Forever Images

103

We are a complete working custom Photography Studio situated on a 40 acre family farm which gives us LOTS of photo opts. We LOVE all of our couples, young and old... we enjoy building relationships with our clients, and that’s exactly what we do, we create life long friends!!! :)

615.642.3587

www.AnnsForeverImages.com

High Gravity Photography

High Gravity Photography is trend-setting, unique, and has an innovative style. My passion for creating amazing photography ensures that my work is always of the highest quality. My diverse collection combines artistic flair with technical skill to create amazing photographs.

615.838.6328

www.highgravityphotography.com

My Fabulous Day Studio

“You don’t take a photograph, you make it.” – Ansel Adams At Catchy Photography we believe in capturing all of the timeless moments in a photograph so that you will cherish them for a lifetime. We bring artistic and fun ideas to each event in order to make photographs that are full of life!

My Fabulous Day Studio is Middle Tennessee’s premier wedding company offering Disc Jockey, Videography, and Photography services as well as your formalwear needs. With almost 30 years in the wedding industry, My Fabulous Day Studio offers top quality and remarkable value that will provide you with memories that will last forever.

256.698.7958

615-852-7423

www.catchyphotography.com

Details Nashville

Details Nashville has over a dozen years experience in professional photography. Whether you need an engagement session at a beautiful location or you want to capture the unforgettable moments of your wedding day, we want to work closely alongside you to meet your photography needs!

615.567.3850

www.DetailsNashville.com

www.myfabulousdaystudio.com

Nicole Warren Photography and Design

Your wedding day is filled with special moments. With each camera click a memory in time is preserved. Allow me to capture these moments that you will treasure for a lifetime.

615.722.7174

www.nicolewarren.me

Receptions & Wedding Sites Puccini Photography

Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club

Both artists take different approaches to photography, using different lenses and strategies to create a completely unique mix of images you can’t find anywhere else.

615.538.5933

www.pucciniphoto.com

Rob Mould Photography

Ace Photography

Meet Maggie and Kristin from Puccini Photography, a mother-daughter photography team with a relaxed fun-loving attitude and a talent for taking beautiful photographs that tell the story of your wedding day.

Stevie Ramos Photography

My wedding photography incorporates a fresh take on the art photojournalism while still embracing the time-honored wedding traditions. Capturing the unique moments of a wedding day is my passion, and I love to be a part of my clients’ experience. I want you to be captured on your wedding day.

615.988.0305

www.stevieramosphoto.com

Twila’s Photography Classic with a modern edge is what Twila’s Photography style is all about. Twila loves to get to know her couples’ love stories and their personal style so she can create beautiful imagery for them throughout the whole wedding process, from engagement photos to bridal portraits to the wedding day.

615.869.9933

www.twilasphotography.com

Kristyn Hogan

www.robmouldphoto.com

Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club promises a memorable event that exceeds the expectations of you and your guests. When hosting an event, you’ll be proud to call Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club your Club. The elegantly appointed Glass Room opens onto a covered terrace for indoor/ outdoor entertaining overlooking the 18th green. And for formal events, the Club’s Grand Ballroom accommodates up to 350 guests. The clubhouse at Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club is Hendersonville’s most desirable location for an intimate evening or large-scale entertaining.

615.824.6528

www.bluegrasscountryclub.com

Cedarwood Weddings

Rob Mould Photography believes whom you choose as your photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. As your photographer we will capture all the lifelong memories that you’ll cherish for years to come. If you are looking for a modern style, a fresh outlook on photography and a personal touch. Then feel free to contact us to learn more about what we have to offer!

615.939.5215

Inside Front Cover

Come to Cedarwood for romantic outdoor weddings at a picturesque 1830’s antebellum farm estate with historic home, vintage barn, rolling meadows, flower gardens and 50 acres of fresh natural spaces. More than just a venue, we are a team of professionals providing all-inclusive services to fulfill every aspect of your wedding day vision. Gorgeous wedding flowers and decor are always included. Let our award-winning and internationally published event designers infuse your personal style into our country oasis to create an ambiance that is chicly southern and uniquely yours.

615.876.9999

www.cedarwoodweddings.com

Cheekwood 79 Cheekwood has been voted “Best Place for a Wedding Reception” 7 years in a row by the Nashville Scene. Why? With 8 beautiful ceremony gardens and 4 different reception venues we offer something for almost every bride. Our Museum of art and Frist Learning Centers are unique to Middle Tennessee.

615.354.6377

www.cheekwood.org

Embassy Suites Murfreesboro Hotel and Conference Center 62-63 The Embassy Suites Murfreesboro is the ideal location for Bridal Showers, Rehearsal Dinners, Weddings & Receptions. Located in the heart of Tennessee, we are the choice for anyone planning an event. The hotel’s 283 suites and our elegant conference center offer the flexibility to accommodate special occasions of any size.

615.890.4464 www.murfreesboro.embassysuites.com

Wells Photo Events

Events at East 96

Wells Photo Events believes preserving the memories of your wedding day should be just as special as the day itself. As a brother and sister photographic team, we strive to capture those memories through candid, creative, and dynamic imagery, woven into a unique wedding day storyline all your own.

Since 1935, five generations of our family have called East 96 home and we find no greater joy than sharing “home” with you. Every event is unique, but our goal is always the same. To create a memorable day full of joy for you & to leave your guest raving about your event & our service.

615.479.3582

615.412.9901

www.wellsphotoevents.com

www.throughthegrapevine.net

Receptions & Wedding Sites Cont.

Edwards Photography Studios

Hard Rock Cafe Nashville

The Lighthouse Wedding Event Center

Hard Rock has been rockin’ the globe for 41 years. Now where could there be a better place for a rockin’ wedding? Located in the historic ‘District’ of downtown Nashville at the foot of Riverfront Park, Hard Rock Cafe is the perfect place to host your wedding. Enjoy an array of customize food and drinks in our newly renovated Reverb Room and partake in the best view of Downtown & the Cumberland River from our Ledge.

615.742.9900

615.590.7068

www.hardrock.com/nashville

Located in the West End area of Nashville conveniently located off I-65/I-40 on Broadway Avenue. Within a short distance of our newly built hotel is Nashville’s bustling downtown area, the famous Music Row, and both Belmont and Vanderbilt Universities.

615.878.3262

No matter what the occasion, Maggiano’s Little Italy makes it magical. Whether you’re hosting a Wedding reception, baby shower, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Quinceanera, or a social gathering, your personal Banquet Staff will help you plan the perfect event from start to finish. Big,small,elegant or casual, it’s sure to be an event your guest won’t soon forget.

615.514.0280

www.nashvillehilton.com

Historic Rock Castle

www.lilacfarmsatarrington.com

Maggiano’s Little Italy

Your wedding will be truly unforgettable at our luxurious hotel. We are the perfect reception location for weddings offering world class service and accommodations.

615.620.1000

Lilac Farms is a predominantly outdoor venue, surrounded by Arrington Vineyard grapevines, large trees and lilacs. With 2 recently renovated homes, red rustic barn and beautiful landscaped grounds there are many options to help you create your perfect wedding. We invite you to come experience Tennessee Wine Country with us!

www.nashvillevanderbilt.hgi.com

Hilton Nashville Downtown

www.lighthouseweddingevents.com

Lilac Farms at Arrington Vineyards

Hilton Garden Inn Nashville/Vanderbilt 49

615.369.5900

Welcome to The Lighthouse, a unique, waterfront events venue located on historical Old Hickory Lake of Hendersonville, Tennessee. Your dreams of a sunset wedding overlooking our calm lake waters can easily become reality! Let our professionalism and attention to detail make your special event a memorable one for all to enjoy!

www.maggianos.com

Mère Bulles When considering a venue for your wedding reception, an elegant and convenient location with superb food and service are your top priorities. Mère Bulles boasts a genuinely historic southern setting, mouth watering freshly prepared food, friendly precise service and premium wedding-day event management expertise.

Rock Castle is the only venue in the area featuring romantic sunsets on Old Hickory Lake and beautiful grounds for your ceremony and reception. There is also a pavilion that can seat up to 112 people for your event. We have the magical setting for your Ceremony and Reception or your rehearsal dinner, We make memories that will last a lifetime.

Mère Bulles is known for the finest local, down to earth, gourmet comfort food around. We have a wide variety of customizable options to accommodate any sized event. weddings@merebulles.com

615.868.3747

Ace Photography

Legacy Farms

www.historicrockcastle.com

Legacy Farms is a truly unique destination offering seamless service for your wedding weekend. Surrounded by 22 acres of peaceful respite, our property and facilities are perfect for hosting a private event. Whether intimate or grande, Legacy Farms has you covered -- even if it rains! There is no need for expensive tenting or complicated backup plans. With the variety of locations on the same property you have several options to choose from. Contact us for more information.

615.321.2394

615.467.1945

www.LegacyFarmsTN.com

www.merebulles.com

Noah Liff Opera Center

101

The Noah Liff Opera Center is Nashville’s newest and most elegant venue. Renowned architect Earl Swensson and Earl Swensson Associates designed a sleek, contemporary venue with four versatile spaces, each offering a variety of options to cater to your needs. The 2-story, 26,000-squarefoot facility is ideal to host your wedding!

NOAH LIFF PERA CENTER

Contact Sarah Willard, Events Manager SWillard@nashvilleopera.org

615.832.5242

noahliffoperacenter.com

Rocketown 51 Located downtown, Rocketown offers an urban alternative venue for today’s bride. Rocketown has free parking, in house lighting and sound, and hands-on event staff. Rocketown welcomes any outside vendors, and our dedicated staff can help you achieve your wedding dream! We can host any element of your wedding weekend.

615.843.4003 www.rocketown/rentals/weddings

Spring Haven Mansion

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

Whether it’s a rehearsal dinner, a wedding reception or a bridal shower, you can count on Fleming’s to make it memorable. Our Private Dining Rooms offer an exceptional setting for dining, featuring the finest prime steak and 100 wines by the glass. Our dedicated Private Dining Director will work with you personally to ensure that every detail is exactly right.

615.342.0131

www.flemingssteakhouse.com/locations/tn/nashville

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Spring Haven Mansion is a beautiful historic wedding venue, minutes from Nashville, TN. The grounds of the historic plantation are perfect for outdoor weddings, receptions or any event. It is one of the top wedding locations in Nashville, TN and provides full service and custom packages at reasonable prices.

615.826.9702

615.320.0163

www.springhavenmansion.com

The Hermitage Hotel

www.ruthschris.com

The Hermitage Hotel

615.345.7109

www.thehermitagehotel.com

Rentals & Décor Union Station Hotel

Blue Nova LLC

Let your history together begin amid the picturesque arches and elegant accents of this 100-year old restored railway station providing an eclectic blend of Old World character and chic, modern-day luxury.

Blue Nova Designs is Nashville’s trusted event draping company. Nashville’s top event planners continue to rely on our services. We take your satisfaction seriously from the first contact to the beautiful finished product. We use only top quality fabrics and we even hand press our drapes for each event. Your wedding deserves a flawless finish with Blue Nova Designs.

615.726.1001 www.unionstationhotelnashville.com

615.465.2424

www.bluenovadesigns.com

Rehearsal Dinner Amerigo Italian Restaurant

Classic Party Rentals

Whether it’s a bridal shower for 10 or a rehearsal dinner for 60, Amerigo offers the very best in private dining to suit your special event! We will work with you to provide personalized service to create customized menus within your budget parameters. To check availability, call Ali Gensert at 615-298-2986.

Classic Party Rentals Nashville is the one-stop shop for everything you need to throw a memorable bash. We have you covered from tent top to tabletop. Our highly trained, professional staff is always on call to make sure your party is set up on time, in superb condition, in any weather. So whether you’re planning a Southern barbeque for six or a reception for hundreds, if it’s a big event to you, it’s a big event to us.

615.298.2986

615.641.1111 www.nashville.classicpartyrentals.com

www.amerigo.net

Rentals & Décor Continued Draping Designs & Decor

Draping Designs & Decor is a custom event draping company, and with our many years of experience we will create a beautiful comfortable setting for you and your guest on your wedding day. We can enhance any location such as a tent, ballroom, church or hall and transform your special day.

615.430.6577

www.drapingdesigns.com

Southern Events Party Rental & Vintage Prop Shoppe

105

We will not only provide you with the highest quality and unique rental products, we will share with you our expertise and creativity to style your special day. We have it all chairs, tables, basic and specialty linens, place settings, candelabras and décor, cupcake and cake plateaus, dance floors, bars, farm tables, rustic benches, modular seating and more. Check out our Vintage Prop Shoppe for furniture, heirloom china, décor and accessories!

615.595.8508

www.southerneventsonline.com

Grand Central Party Rental, Inc. 51

Ultimate Party Rental Center

Your Day . .Your Style. .Your Dream!

We have everything you need for your wedding! Be sure to contact us for all of your wedding supply and rental needs. We will provide you with great quality and great service in your joyous time.

When it has to be perfect look no further than Grand Central Party Rental. Full service rental company offering Tents, Tables Chairs, Linens, China, Flatware, Glassware, Lighting, Draping and More! Our ultimate goal is superior customer service along with quality equipment to create an event that will be both enchanting and memorable.

615.868.3747

www.grandcentralparty.com

615.431.0020 www.hendersonvillepartystore.com

Transportation Liberty Party Rental

Back Cover

The Delight Is In The Details - You enjoy yourself. We’ll take care of the rest. Not only do we have the tents, tables, glassware and linens you’re looking for, we have the people who spin them into something special your guests will talk about for years to come!

615.822.4392

www.libertypartyrental.com

Grand Avenue Chauffeured Transportation Grand Avenue Limousine & Luxury Transport Services delivers the ultimate chauffeured transportation experience in and around Greater Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, and Middle Tennessee areas. Professional, courteous drivers, impeccable vehicles, guaranteed ontime arrival and personal delivery - we see to every detail to make your travel a pleasure, and treat you like royalty while in our care.

615.714.5466

www.grandavenueworldwide.com

Tuxedo Music City Tents & Events

Bridal Warehouse

Music City Tents & Events has been the highest rated party rental business in Nashville, for more than a decade. We offer the widest selections of unique, high-quality party rental equipment in the southeast and we stock thousands of items. Our equipment selection includes tents, lounge furniture, linen, fine china, silver, chafing dishes, cake plateaus, tables, chairs, bars, and much, much more.

615.298.9222

615.855.1005

www.musiccitytents.com

Ready Set Drape LLC

Street Tuxedo

56-57

www.usabridal.com

Ready Set Drape is the new nationwide provider of DIY event draping. Why just dream about beautiful, luxurious wedding drapes when they can be yours! With our years of professional event draping experience, these patent-pending drape systems have been developed and perfected to be user-friendly, wrinkle-free and absolutely elegant.

Street Tuxedo is your exclusive destination for the latest wedding fashions plus way more! Here you’ll find the top tuxedo styles for 2013 going forward, “We’ve Got Your Color” online color selector, Featured Designers and Special Offers. We welcome your Groom to TRY ON any styles that interest him before you make your final choice of suit or tuxedo. Let us take you beyond the typical tuxedo shopping experience with our style profiler and give you advice from our expert stylists to achieve an unforgettable look on your Fabulous Day.

1.866.622.7862

615.771.0948

www.readysetdrape.com

www.streettuxedo.com

Videography Details Nashville

At Details Nashville, we are equipped with the most upto-date HD video equipment capable of clearly capturing your wedding day. But the best equipment in the world doesn’t mean much unless we can creatively capture the uniqueness of your special day. Lucky for you, we are experienced cinematographers who are ready to do just that!

615.567.3850

www.DetailsNashville.com

Foxrun Films Foxrun Films is Nashville’s newest name in wedding video. We offer simple packages that are visually stunning without stunning your budget. We not only capture the grandeur of your wedding day, but the tiniest beautiful details, too. We work seamlessly with your photographer to ensure the best in photography and video. And most importantly, we work for you. Our coverage lasts all day; you won’t be restricted by hour requirements or time frames!

269.365.3712

Notes

www.foxrunfilms.com

Amber Campbell & Thomas Burnett June 1, 2013 PHOTOGRAPHY BY Candice Jones Photography

~ Congrats to our ~

Cover Contest

Winners - PHOTOGRAPHY BY -

Candice Jones Photography

Amber Campbell & Thomas Burnett 06.01.13 Thomas and I met in high school and dated through college. He planned a secret photo shoot with Candice Jones Photography to propose to me in October 2012. We ended up in a pond taking pictures before heading to his house, where all our friends and family were waiting to congratulate us. It was a perfect day. My dress and the bridesmaid dresses were Allure, and the color was called Stone. The wedding was supposed to start at 6:30 PM. At 5:45, it started storming, and it was too late to move to our “in case of rain” location. Everyone watched the radar on their phone and gathered inside the barn to wait for the storm to pass. At about 7 PM, my dad said, “At 7:15 we are starting, rain or shine.” Guests weren’t escorted to a seat like planned; instead, they were helping dry chairs with towels and holding their umbrellas. At 7:15, the rain stopped, and I walked down the aisle. The ceremony was only 8 minutes long because the preacher was afraid it might start raining again. He mentioned at the beginning that in order for a rainbow we must go through a storm, referring to the current weather and our marriage. As soon as he said you may kiss the bride, a big beautiful rainbow appeared behind us. It was truly amazing and a reminder from God that He will always take care of us. There was no more rain for the rest of the night! One of the sweetest moments of the night was seeing Thomas crying as I walked down the aisle. It made me want to cry! It was such a sweet and special moment. For the wedding, Thomas and my great grandfather made the arbor we stood under! I had a picture of it and knew what I wanted, so they made it happen. It was a special touch to have them work together to build something that added so much to our special day! Candice Jones, our photographer, is so great to work with! We did proposal, engagement, wedding, and an “after the wedding” shoot with her! She is so passionate about her work and does a great job! We couldn’t be more pleased with our pictures since it is the only thing you have to remember your special day! The honeymoon was great. We went to Cancun, Mexico, for 6 nights. It was extremely easy and stress-free! They picked us up at the airport and brought us back at the end of the week. It was our first time staying at an all-inclusive and we would definitely recommend it!

Behind the Story

Photographer Candice Jones Photography Invitations & Calligraphy Candice Jones Photography Formalwear Street Tuxedo

TIPS TO MAKE YOUR

Hair Sparkle ON YOUR WEDDING DAY!

1 HIRE A PROFESSIONAL.

We know some of your are very good at styling hair but hiring a professional is the way to go; especially for your wedding day.

2 DO YOU COLOR YOUR HAIR?

Make sure you talk to your stylist at least 6 months prior to your wedding. This will allow you and your stylist to achieve the perfect color on your big day.

3 OUTDOOR WEDDING?

Be sure to choose a hair style that can take the heat. Also be sure to use lots of hair spray (Maybe have one of your bridesmaids keep some hair spray with them at all times to fix any hair that might be falling).

4 PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT.

Be sure to set an appointment with your stylist a few weeks before your wedding. Use this time to share hair ideas with your stylist. This will help you see what you will look like on your wedding day and allows the hair stylist a little practice before the big day!

5 WANT TO BE SURE YOUR HAIR LOOKS AMAZING ON YOUR WEDDING DAY?

Be sure to start using a deep conditioner at least three months before your wedding. Ask your stylist for tips on which conditioner is best for your hair.

6 KEEP IT DIRTY.

Many times hair stylists like to work with dirty hair when styling. Dirty hair can often help the hair style last longer.

7 HAIR CHOICES.

Having trouble settling on one hair style? Try one for your wedding day and another for bridal shots or day after wedding shots.

8 VEIL OR NO VEIL?

This seems to be the big question facing the modern bride. This is your wedding day and only opportunity to wear a veil so why not wear one of the ceremony and switch to a beautiful hair piece or hair jewelry for the reception.

9 BE SURE TO BRING ALL YOUR HAIR ACCESSORIES TO YOUR TRIAL RUN.

This includes your veil and jewelry! You will want to see how this compliments your hair style.

10 CHOOSING THE RIGHT HAIRSTYLE FOR YOU!

You want to look naturally beautiful on your wedding day. If you don't wear you hair up then DO NOT wear it up on your wedding day! Start with your favorite everyday look and let your stylist take charge!

Adapted from somethingturquoise.com

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The grounds of the historic Spring Haven Mansion are perfect for outdoor and garden weddings, receptions, or any event and is just minutes from Nashville, TN. We offer full service and custom wedding packages at reasonable prices. Let our professional planners and vendors do the work while you relax and enjoy personalizing your catering, bridal floral, cake, and décor.

Your dream awaits you.

Signature Cakes by Vicki

simple, unique, traditional & contemporary designs

For the most beautiful centerpiece to your wedding and the most delicious dessert for your reception . . . you want a“Signature Cake!”

(615)513-2266 www.signaturecakesbyvicki.com

Leslie Nowlin & Nathan McBroom 06.01.13 Nathan and I dated for three years until he proposed after buying us our first place. (I lived in it until we were married, and then he joined me there.) He built a bench for our new place that we were going to put outside. When he brought it in the house and told me to come in the den to check it out, he had painted the words “Will you marry me?” on it. He wanted our first home to be our engagement spot too...such a sweet moment between me and him and our first place together. We were engaged for 8 months, which I do believe gave us the perfect amount of time to plan. Not too short, and not too drawn out of an experience. It kept the time full of excitement and planning and not enough time to second guess my choices or find another “the one” wedding dress. The unexpected happened. As we were outside beginning to take wedding party pictures, the clouds started rolling in, and the wind started picking up speed. After one thunderclap, the bottom fell out of the sky. And it did not just rain… it rained so hard that you couldn’t see. We ran inside, and all we could see from the windows was hard, sideways rain. And then and there, despite the 8 months of planning, and always knowing it could rain... I lost it. The tears came, and the mascara ran. My perfect day was crumbling before my very eyes. Nathan took me in a room and pretty much said that I was beautiful, that we would still be married at the end of the day, and that is what would make the day perfect. After a sweet moment with him, I rushed upstairs with my bridesmaids, and they attempted to fix the damage I had caused by my tears. My bridesmaids somehow fixed me (those miracle workers), and then we laughed... and we danced! We were so busy just having fun girl time. Finally, the rain went away just in time for our outside ceremony…the wedding Nathan and I had wanted! After we rushed around drying chairs, replacing ceremony flowers, and getting the guests in place, we were able to have our outside wedding. It was absolutely the BEST. DAY. EVER. The rain helped keep the muggy June weather away, and we had a cool night with the most amazing sunset I could have ever imagine. And Nathan was right: at the end of the day, we were husband and wife, and the day was perfect. Our wedding colors were dove gray and pale pink.

~ Congrats to our ~ Cover Contest

Runner-Up

Leslie Nowlin & Nathan McBroom

We made our own corn hole boards for people to play during the reception, and Nathan threw the garter on a football (so guys would actually WANT to catch it). He also gave me a monogrammed necklace on my wedding day of my new initials, which I proudly wore as we danced the night away at our reception.

Behind the Story

Photographers Twila Allen and Ian Riley with Twila’s Photography Bridal Shop & Jewelry Arzelle’s Brides & Formals Rentals and Decor Southern Events Party Rental

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Lesli Brannon & Erik Thompson 12.01.12

Lesli Brannon & Erik Thompson

Two years after meeting, on my 36th birthday, Erik mentioned that he had made dinner reservations. When I realized we were headed to 701 Restaurant again, I didn’t think much of it. Unbeknownst to me, he had shared his plan to propose with restaurant management. He had even created a menu, one that appeared to be identical to the restaurant’s menu. When our waiter brought out menus for both of us to choose dessert, I opened mine to find love poems and quotes in place of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Needless to say, I was crying and shaking, and he hadn’t even popped the question yet. It was such a memorable night - of course, because he proposed, but also because of the effort he put into making the night so special for us. The icing on the cake was that he had already called my father earlier in the day to ask for my hand in marriage. Our wedding day was so special to us because so many friends and family were present to celebrate our big day. We had guests travel from all over the United States including Hawaii, and even one of Erik’s oldest friends came from Switzerland. We count it a blessing that our wedding celebration meant so much to so many of our family and friends. We really enjoyed working with Ace Photography. We took our engagement pictures a few days before the wedding and had a blast! On one of Erik’s first visits to Nashville, we visited the Parthenon. I thought he would really enjoy it since he is an architect. Well, that first trip gave us a morning with beautiful blue skies and a bright sun. Then, out of nowhere, we were caught in a pouring rain. Even that turned out to be perfect because we just sat, talked, and soaked up the scenery and the smell of fresh-cut, wet grass. During that first visit, we also visited Bicentennial Mall. Needless to say, these two spots had to be part of our list for engagement picture locations. Once our wedding day arrived, we were so comfortable in front of the cameras because we knew what to expect, and we felt like the Ace staff were old friends. We knew we wanted to invest in great photographers, but we didn’t imagine we’d love our pictures as much as we do.

Behind the Story

Photographer Ace Photography Cake Signature Cakes by Vicki Formalwear Street Tuxedo Rentals and Decor Classic Party Rentals

Ideal Catering

We only the finest use qu products ality which sets us a p art from the rest.

The ideal caterer for all your events

Ask us how to receive a complimentary centerpiece for your food table!

idealcatering@bellsouth.net • 615.977.1470 • 615.573.5647 • www.IdealCateringofnashville.com

www.catchyphotography.com

•

catchyphotography@gmail.com

ALLURE MEN www.streettuxedo.com green hills - 615.386.0500 cool springs - 615.771.0948

murfreesboro - 615.890.0955 berry hill - 615.750.5324

Cakes 1 Signature cakes by vicki 2 The Bake Shoppe (COMPLETE music. video. photo.) 3 Details Nashville (Candice Jones Photography) 4 The Bake Shoppe (Rob Mould Photography) 5 Ideal Catering 6 Signature cakes by vicki 7 The Bake Shoppe (Matt Andrews Photography) 8 Details Nashville (Candice Jones Photography) 9 Signature cakes by vicki 10 The Bake Shoppe (Button Bug Photography) 11 Signature cakes by vicki

Jessica Leonard & Shane Hollandsworth October 13, 2012

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Candice Jones Photography

Jessica Leonard & Shane Hollandsworth 10.13.12 We had beautiful fall outdoor ceremony that took place as the sun began to set. We got married in a hay field on Shaneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grandparentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; farm. Our wedding colors were burnt orange, fern green, chocolate brown, and ivory. The bridesmaids were in fern green, and the groomsmen in burnt orange. The flower girls and I arrived in a classic 1956 Ford, and the bridesmaids arrived in a 1964 Ford Falcon. For the reception, we had a country-style dinner with fried chicken and all the fixings, and for dessert, we had all kinds of pies and other sweets. As darkness fell, we all enjoyed a very elaborate fireworks show. Also, as we left, our guests lined a path of wedding sparklers to say goodbye to us. My advice to any bride is to have fun, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be stressed, and make lots of memories! Being married is so much fun. Your wedding should be a celebration of you and your marriage.

Behind the Story

Photographer Candice Jones Photography

BRIDAL AND FORMAL Certified Dealer of Fine Bridal Attire Brinkley, Arkansas www.lowsbridal.com 870.734.3244

Mark Donahue & Wendi Reynolds 07.27.13

Cheyenne & Justin Hurst 03.08.13

Rachel Czeizinger & Marc McIntyre 08.19.12

Rob Mould Photography

Puccini Photography

Nicole Warren Photography

Katie Garduno & Larry Ruiz 08.24.13

Kristy Ritchie & Matthew Block 10.26.13

Bethany Nichols & Derek Faust 08.17.13

Focal Expressions by Ned

Forever Images

Candice Jones Photography

Kayla Wimberly & Cody Hughes 12.21.13

Sarai Perkins & Jonathan Lewis 06.22.13

Brittany Wood & John Bishop 10.19.2013

Candice Jones Photography

Blue Mason Photography

Ace Photography

Congratulations To all of these Nashville couples

Steps To The Best Wedding Celebration Ever

by Pink Lady Andrea

If you dream of throwing the wedding of the decade, plan an event that focuses on honoring your guests throughout the evening. Follow the ten great tips below to planning a celebration your guests with thank you for later – and talk about for years to come!

1. Welcome your guests in style.

Besides stepping into a cozy, clean hotel room after a long day driving or flying to your wedding location, give your guests fashionable treats to make them feel more at home – and welcome! Include everything from local snacks and bottled water to area maps and information on local attractions. They’ll love relaxing with these treats before the festivities!

2. Choose an interesting locale.

Get expressive with where you tie the knot. This can be anywhere from your local zoo to even a museum or gallery nearby. Don’t limit your celebration to traditional venues! Guests will love the unique characteristics of your day because of the one-of-a-kind feel of the location.

3. Keep guests comfortable.

If you’re having an outdoor celebration during summer months, install fans to keep guests cool, and consider fan programs as wedding favors. If it’s during the winter, install heaters to keep the space warm and serve warm drinks. Rest rooms should be nearby no matter where your event is, and you should keep a check on the air conditioning and heat if your venue is indoors. The point is to never let your guests become uncomfortable!

4. Involve them in the ceremony.

Kick off the ceremony with a signature beverage as guests arrive, and allow them to sip and chat before the processional begins. This is a surefire way to break the ice and drum up conversations that will last throughout the evening. Not sure what to serve? A cool, refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) during warm months would be great, and good, old-fashioned hot chocolate would be wonderful during the cooler months. You can also ask guests to give you advice for wedded bliss as you start your new life together.

5. The transition from ceremony to reception should be quick.

Let’s face it: if guests have to travel more than 30 minutes between your ceremony and reception site, or if they have to wait that long for your arrival to begin celebrating, they won’t really be in the partying mood by the time the reception starts. Choose venues that are near each other for your ceremony and reception, and cater your timeline to making sure your guests are entertained.

6. Let your guests make a grand entrance.

Treat them to a rock-star arrival by having each guest ushered into the reception hall with drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and lively music. This makes them feel like a true part of the celebration and sets a vibrant tone for the rest of the evening!

7. Keep them interested with a full itinerary.

The party should never hit a lull where guests sneakily start checking their watches. Make sure you’ve got plenty lined up for their entertainment by dispersing special dances, speeches, and toasts throughout the evening. Also consider having a photo booth near for guests to enjoy! Constantly change things up, rather than having long stretches of time with the same activity.

8. Food and beverages are the key to a great celebration.

People tend to chat more and feel more comfortable when food and drinks are involved, so make sure you foster that great sense of welcome and hospitality by ensuring that they always have something to snack on and drink throughout the evening. Ask your caterer to provide servers who will mingle with the guests, refreshing plates and drinks regularly.

9. Dance the night away with great entertainment. One of the biggest details of throwing the celebration of a lifetime depends upon your entertainment choice – meaning your band or DJ. This is so much more than just playing music! A professional band or DJ will be able to read the crowd and play music that will either get them up and dancing or relax them. If you want your guests talking about your celebration for years, put some work into finding the perfect entertainment choice!

10. Plan the after-party!

Give your more party-friendly crowd somewhere to take their dancing shoes after the big exit at the reception. Plan an after-party! This can be at a nearby locale, and food, beverages, and entertainment should be in ample supply. Just make sure that you have important numbers handy in case you need to call someone a cab or need to get in touch with someone fast!

Trust the professionals at Ultimate Party Rentals for your perfect wedding day.

Quality • Selection • Service

Tents · Tables · Chairs · Columns · Dance Floors · Linens · China · and Much More 615-431-0020 | www.hendersonvillepartystore.com | 246 Main St., Hendersonville, TN

Four Need-to-Know Tips for Your Bridal Portrait Session by Pink Lady Andrea [ Show off your dress and your attitude with our advice! ]

1. Take inspiration from other bridal sessions you have seen, but never attempt to copy them. The whole idea is to express who you are at an important time in your life. Do something that is uniquely you!

2. It is fun to be trendy, but it is safest to shoot for timeless. Consider subtle additions, like vibrant shoes in a color you have always loved or a location you used to play in as a child.

3. Hold your breath – you do not have to wear your dress! If jeans and a t-shirt define you much more than your wedding dress, incorporate them in the bridal session.

4. Incorporate only things you love. If you do not ride a motorcycle, fix cars, or go sailing, why would you have your photos taken on a bike, under a greasy car, or on a boat? Again, each bride is unique. Let your portrait capture that! Never do something merely to make a point or because others may like it. Satisfy yourself above all!

Artistry+Expertise.

397 Wallace Road, Holmes Plaza, Suite 101, Nashville, TN 37211 www.drdavidgilpin.com 615.942.7301

Christa Henning & Matthew Redd 02.23.13

Christa Henning & Matthew Redd

You could say we fell in love over spreadsheets. That sounds a little silly, but it might not be too far from the truth. We are both extremely organized people and were instantly friends when we first met at work, as we just had so many things in common. Then, several years later, when Matthew got another job, and we realized we might not be part of each other’s lives, suddenly we knew we wanted to be more than friends. Our wedding was a small, intimate wedding with about 110 people, just family and close friends. Our wedding colors were white, black and red. It was in February, but we didn’t want it to be too cheesy with Valentine’s, so it was more just classic with black and white damask and red roses. The photography was beautiful. We were able to do a lot of shots outside, even though it was just a bit cold, but otherwise, it was a beautiful day. The kids made us laugh! We have seven nieces and nephews total, and the two youngest were the cutest in pictures and at the beginning of the ceremony. We wrote our own vows, so that was definitely the moments that made us cry. Actually, I’m not sure there was a dry eye in the room. We had some major issues with the tuxedos, so that was definitely unexpected, but it ended up working out fine in the end. Our wedding vendors were wonderful. Ned with Focal Expressions was really awesome and creative and really made everything fun. He worked so well with the other staff, and our wedding party loved him. He created great angles and was overall just a pleasure to work with. He did some engagement photos for us as well, and we couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out. For our honeymoon, we went to a Sandals resort in Jamaica, the Royal Caribbean. We liked the idea of everything including food being paid for up front, so we didn’t have to worry about anything while we were there. It was perfect for us. It was one of their smaller resorts, so it was really nice and private and affordable, but we also were able to get to know several other couples while we were there. They have little shows and events on site that are a little cheesy, like something that would be on a cruise ship, but it was still something to do if you wanted to have activities and not leave the resort. We even left the resort one day and had a wonderful experience.

Behind the Story

Photographer Focal Expressions by Ned Bridal Shop & Bridal Party Attire Bridal Warehouse

Just Imagine....

Romantic sunset ceremony on Tennesseeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic Old Hickory Lake!

Photography by Amanda Evans Photography and K.G. Photography

- Visit north Nashvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest lakefront wedding and events venue, The Lighthouse. -

The Lighthouse Wedding Event Center 133 Sanders Ferry Road, Hendersonville TN 37075 www.lighthouseweddingevents.com 615-590-7068

Stephanie Tacheny & Ryan van Rensburg 05.11.13

~ Congrats to our ~ Cover Contest

Runner-Up

Ryan and I met through mutual friends and slowly started to become friends before we started taking interest in each other. We were both dating other people, but we would always somehow get together and talk about our relationships. I told him that a girl would come his way, one day, that will completely sweep him off his feet, and he would forget about all the “little things.” If only he knew that she was sitting right in front of him. We started dating not too long after and fell in love immediately. It was meant to be. People always told me “when you know, you know,” and I never really understood what it meant until Ryan and I met. We only dated for a little over a year when Ryan proposed to me. He invited my whole family to come out to dinner at The Melting Pot as a disguise for my mother’s birthday. She suggested that we go take a walk in Centennial Park, downtown Nashville. When we reached the Parthenon, I realized everyone got really quiet all of a sudden. When I turned around, Ryan was on his knee holding out the most beautiful ring. I don’t even remember what he said, except that I had been waiting for this moment my whole life. Our engagement lasted about eleven months before we said “I do.” Before the wedding started, we shared a “first look,” which was a very exciting but emotionally intense moment. We also wrote our own vows, which was an emotional roller coaster to go through when standing there in front of so many people and with the person you are going to spend the rest of your life with. The feelings are so strong at that point that there is nothing else to do but smile and cry. There were so many memorable moments that I will always hold close to my heart. The wedding had a vintage-classy theme with lots of light pinks, light grays, beige and light purple.

Stephanie Tacheny & Ryan van Rensburg

As a wedding favor, we had a photo booth where our guests could dress up and have a little fun. The guests were able to take home printed copies of their pictures, and all the pictures were saved on a flash drive for us to keep for some good memories. We also had a slide show, mostly for relatives that we haven’t seen in a long time, of how our relationship grew over time with pictures that we collected since the beginning of our relationship. The honeymoon was amazing. We went to St. Lucia and stayed at the Smuggler’s Cove. It is a quiet honeymoon destination with all the luxuries anyone could ask for. The beaches are absolutely gorgeous with many fun activities throughout the day and evening, so you have the option of getting out for some fun or snuggling up quietly in your villa style room. It is an all-inclusive resort with a gourmet feel to it. The food and drinks were amazing, and the staff was very friendly and fun. Ryan and my father planned the entire trip, and they did very well!

Behind the Story

Photographer Ace Photograph Bridal Shop Bridal Warehouse Formalwear Tuxedo Avenue Rentals and Decor Grand Central Party Rentals

s u h t i w t c e n n Co for the best in

Tennessee

weddings

Events at East 96 Outdoor Event Venue Lascassas, tn

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Happily Ever After Starts Here...

â&#x20AC;Śdaily!

https://www.facebook.com/ ThePinkBrideCo @pinkbrideco pinterest.com/thepinkbride

Photos by Shannon Fulton Photography and EAC Photography

Tuxedo ( Suit Styles for Each Body Type

by Pink Lady Andrea Make sure your man looks just as stunning as you do on your wedding day! Read on for style tips for each body type.

Height Tall

Body Type

Thin

Average

Bulky

Average

Short

You can wear just about any style, but be aware of the lengths of jacket sleeves and pant legs. The shoulder pads in your jacket will add bulk without looking too boxy.

Ask your tuxedo specialist about the “fitted look,” which will highlight your trim physique, while the shoulder pads in the jacket will add just enough bulk to your look.

Avoid styles that seem to “hang” on your frame, and look for jackets with two or three buttons that begin lower, rather than higher. Your tuxedo specialist will tailor it to your physique so that you look your best.

Again, you can wear any style! Always watch the length on your jacket sleeves and pant legs.

Any style in any color will work for this physique. The most popular currently is the two-button notch lapel tuxedo in black.

Two low-sitting buttons on a jacket and a vest will elongate your frame.

If you are largest around your midsection, move away from cummerbunds, which draw attention to this area. Consider the more popular option instead – a vest! Go for a onebutton jacket, and streamline your look by avoiding thick, layered materials. Choose a long tie rather than bow tie as well.

Again, if you are largest around the middle, avoid the cummerbund. A vest will draw the eye up, rather than to any bulk you may have in the midsection. A one-button jacket works for this body type. Long ties work best for this frame, rather than bow ties.

Do not go for thick fabrics that add to your size. Look for a jacket with one button that sits low. Opt out of the cummerbund and choose a vest instead. This makes you seem taller and slimmer. Opt for a long tie, rather than bow tie.

Reader Q&A:

Local grooms ask formalwear questions!

Q : “Some jackets have so many buttons. Do I have to button them all?” Evan - Knoxville, TN A : Buttoning only the top button of your jacket is considered appropriate. Q : “What button count works best?” Alex - Oak Ridge, TN A : Generally, jackets with one button work best with bulkier physiques, two buttons look good on average body types, and two or more buttons work for taller people.

Q : “Does it matter who does the alterations on my tuxedo or suit?” Carl - Farragut, TN A : Absolutely. Similar to having a wedding dress altered, not having a professional alter a tuxedo or suit can literally butcher the final product. Choose a reputable shop for your wedding day needs!

Q : “How do I know the difference between a tuxedo and a suit?” Julius - Knoxville, TN A : A tuxedo will have the presence of satin on the lapels, buttons, pockets, and in a stripe down the pant leg. A suit does not have satin components and normally has plastic buttons.

Amber Waterman & William Music October 13, 2012 PHOTOGRAPHY BY Ace Photography

Amber Waterman & William Music 10.13.12 I think our wedding was spectacular! I tried very hard to make it personal, unique, and memorable for us and our guests. Unquestionably, the most memorable moment of the evening was when our surprise guest arrived, which requires some back story... Abe is a graduate of Western Kentucky University, and he doesn’t miss a single football game. He loves the team mascot, Big Red. In order to make my husband the happiest man alive, I arranged for a surprise performance from his mistress, Big Red, at our wedding. (I made sure our wedding date didn’t fall on a game weekend!) So, during the garter toss I had Abe blindfolded, and when he turned around to throw the garter and take off his blindfold, Big Red was standing right in front of him. Abe’s face was priceless! Big Red did an amazing job and danced the night away with us – and later downtown – and I was officially the coolest wife in the world! This is something our guests will never forget, especially since the majority of them had no idea who – or what – Big Red was. I wanted a classic wedding with a fun Nashville twist. To do this, I chose classic and traditional elements and added southern flavor to the mix. For example, our main colors were black and white, but I added color with bright and non-fall-like flowers and colors (pink, purple, lime green) to our decor. We also had “fancy” southern cuisine, like a version of fried chicken and BBQ pork, dressed up to meet City Club’s reputation. We also had traditional favorites, like sweet tea and lemonade, and hot apple cider for guests as they arrived as a fun fall treat. My vendors were FABULOUS. Obviously, our photographers were amazing (I’m still getting compliments on our pictures and have been told by out-of-town friends that they can’t find any photographers to compare to them for their weddings). Our engagement shoot, wedding day, and post-wedding shoot were all beautiful, creative, and very descriptive of “us” as a couple. Arline is a complete hoot and is extremely talented. Our DJ was the best we have ever experienced (and our guests said the same thing), and I can’t possibly say enough good things about our wonderful florist, Caprice. I think I changed my mind on flowers 10 times over the course of the year, and during the last month, I totally changed my ceremony decor to incorporate this huge, old mantel as our backdrop – and without even seeing it beforehand, she created the most beautiful ceremony space I have ever seen. The flower arrangements were exactly what I wanted, and I have no idea how she did that with my unexperienced descriptions and ever-changing ideas.

Behind the Story Photographer Ace Photography Florist Enchanted Florsit Cake The Bake Shoppe Bridal Shop Bridal Warehouse Transportation Grand Avenue Rentals and Decor Enchanted Florist Post-Wedding Photo Shoot Cedarwood

Flowers Forever Inc. Preserve your bridal bouquet for generations to come!

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bluemasonphotos@gmail.com www.bluemasonphotos.com

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Meghan Lederer • 865-385-0882 Linda Lawless • 615-974-0450 Peggy Lowe • 901-496-1707

Chic. Unique. You. All the splendor of downtown in the per fect Midtown locationâ&#x20AC;Ś

Hilton Garden Inn Nashville Vanderbilt offers luxurious Midtown accommodations, fine chic southern cuisine, and a Penthouse Ballroom with a breathtaking skyline view.

Photography by Krista Lee Photography & Dallas Gilliam Photography

1715 Broadway Nashville TN 37203 www.NashvilleVanderbilt.HGI.com

615-523-7920

Eliza.Straney@hilton.com

Nashville/Vanderbilt

Six Steps to

Choosing the Wedding Cake Dig in to the perfect wedding cake on your big day by following these simple steps! by Pink Lady Andrea

Always, always, always do cake tastings!

Look around at different styles and designs, and have an idea of how you want your cake to look before you meet with your baker to nail down a design.

A cake can look beautiful and still taste horrible. Taste each bakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cake prior to placing a deposit!

Have two or three ideas available to discuss, and see what his or her opinion is on the best style and design for your guest count.

Be aware of food allergies.

Know how many guests are planning to attend.

Choose the shape of each tier next or decide upon a design from step two.

Do you or your future hubby have a food allergy of some sort? Be sure to tell your baker about any allergies or dietary restrictions you may have before going further.

Once you have your guest count, your baker can tell you how many tiers your cake should have. If you want to save the top tier, you may need an additional or larger tier.

Your baker may provide multiple options for tier shapes if you would like to build a custom look, or you can begin discussing what you love about the designs you found.

Choose your cake flavors, fillings, and icing! Keep in mind that your baker may suggest using fondant for certain cake designs or outdoor weddings. This could change how much your cake costs as well as the way your cake tastes, so be aware of this before moving forward. Once that is settled, choose which flavor, filling, and icing combo is just perfect for you!

Event Planning and Design by Laurie Hardman at Randi Events

www.brownlabphotography.com

Elegant. Distinctive. Affordable.

www.rocketown.com/rentals Rehearsal Dinners AmbrosiaCateringTn.com Info@ambrosiacateringtn.com

615.254.3783

2605B Grissom Drive. Nashville,Tn 37204

Weddings |

Receptions

Bridal Showers

601 4th Avenue South, Nashville TN 37210 Âť 615.843.4003

For more information or to book an appointment, please contact Mary Virginia Settle at maryvirginia@rocketown.org.

Wedding DressforStyles each body type Your wedding day is about celebrating the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life, so be sure to wear the dress of your dreams for the occasion! Discover the best style suggestions for your body type here.

by Pink Lady Andrea

Body Type

Gown Suggestion

Straight-Figured

Try a mermaid or trumpet silhouette. Both help you seem curvier and make your bust and hips look more proportioned. If you really enjoy the idea of a ball gown, try that too! It will capitalize on your small waist and create a more pronounced hip.

Plus-Sized

Find a dress with an open neckline â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ideally a strapless sweetheart. Do not opt for sleeves or a cover over your arms. Look for a dress with ruching that comes to a point, as this separates the bust and the hip perfectly.

Small Bust

Look for a gown with a sweetheart neckline and ruching at the top. This creates volume where you need it most.

Busty

Play down your bust by avoiding straight necklines. Rather, choose a sweetheart neckline or a scooped neckline. Opt for a modified A-line dress with beads and detailing further down the dress to avoid drawing more attention up top.

Tall

Seek a design with minimal frills that accents your long lines. An Empire dress can do just that. The dress will pull in right at or just below your natural waist.

Short

The fit and flair cut with a sweetheart neckline will be flattering on you. Keep in mind while shopping that a higher waist creates the illusion of a longer torso. Embellishments are great for this body type, but they should be small and clustered mainly at the top of the dress.

Pear Shape

A gown with thick straps or a one-shoulder look will help pull the eye away from your hips. A flowing gown with a natural waist will also help conceal this area.

Apple Shape

Seek out dresses with lots of ruching all over to create shape. A V-neck is slimming and draws the eye up, rather than across, too.

No matter what dress style you choose in the end, all that matters is how you feel in it. Keep an open mind to conflicting opinions, but do not let yourself lose focus in the midst of them. Your opinion matters most! Follow your professionalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s suggestions as you try on different styles, and ultimately choose the dress you feel the most beautiful and confident in as you look in the mirror. Regardless of your body type, if you are happy and confident on your wedding day, you will be gorgeous!

Details Nashville Your One Stop Shop! { By Adam Loeffler } Most wedding ceremonies last no more than 20 minutes. Everything a girl has dreamed about since she was 12 years old has to come together perfectly in less than half an hour. All the months of tedious preparation, and meeting after meeting with a dozen different vendors, all has to be perfectly in sync. There are no second chances! If you are planning a wedding you have likely already begun to sense the pressure associated with this momentous occasion – and it doesn’t have to be this way! Planning a wedding and enjoying your wedding day should not be remembered by how stressful it was. The butterflies and the nervous excitement about your big day should not revolve around whether or not the details will be in place, but about the commitment you are about to make to the person you love. Rather than worrying about whether the cake will be what you expected or whether the DJ will keep the atmosphere of your reception lively enough, you should be able to soak up every moment of the most important day of your life. At Details Nashville we are experienced in all things wedding. Whether it be engagement or wedding photography, capturing video of your special day, catering fresh and delicious food, coordinating all those involved in your wedding, providing DJs that can get people on their feet, playing live music, or designing creative invitations – Details Nashville is your one stop shop for all things wedding. Having to explain the vision for your wedding to a dozen different vendors can be an exhausting, painstaking process. At Details Nashville we can provide you with an experienced consultant that can sit with you and get an understanding of everything you hope to get out of your wedding day. We can then walk with you through planning this perfect day by providing you with all the options that fit within your preferences. Once you have decided on everything you want, we will do the work of bringing all the details together in a way that allows you to take in every wonderful moment!

615.567.3850 www.DetailsNashville.com

Desiree Stevens & Michael Lukens

Desiree Stevens & Michael Lukens 10.20.12 There are so many wonderful moments I remember about our wedding day, from saying “I do” to the most amazing man and walking down that aisle as husband and wife to the one and only dance I have had with my wonderful father. The wedding pictures were amazing and taken as the sun was going down, leaving us with even more great memories of our special day. The church was gorgeous with its natural beauty and pews adorned with purple and white flowers. The reception site was so perfect in the dim lighting with tables of silver, deep purple flowers, cozy lanterns, and floating candles. We all danced the night away listening to the music provided by the best DJ in Nashville!

Behind the Story

For the wedding, I made the wedding favors myself. My friends and family know me as a baker. I have even taken on the nickname “Betty Crocker.” So, I decided to bake cookies for our 175 guests. I put together cute little favor bags, baked over 300 cookies, and assembled the bags for the wedding day. The favor tags read “baked with love for you” and had our names and wedding date. My wedding professionals were amazing, and I am so very lucky to have worked with them!! They helped make our big day special!! The reception site was beautiful and in a very convenient location. We want to thank Ann with Forever Images for providing the most amazing pictures! She photographed our engagement pictures, my bridal pictures, and our big day. I 100% would recommend her to anyone. Vicki with Signature Cakes provided the loveliest and most delicious wedding cake we ever tasted!! It was absolutely perfect and completely demolished by the end of the night!! There were so many compliments from guests about our wedding cake! I have never danced that much in my life!! Our DJ kept the party going and the guests out on the dance floor ALL night. It was so awesome to see our friends and family (even Grandma) dancing the night away!! Our wedding was honestly the most amazing night ever!!! Friends and family could not believe how much fun everyone truly had!!!

Photographer Forever Images, Cake Signature Cakes by Vicki, Reception Location Hilton Garden Inn Nashville Vanderbilt

Lakeside Romance at the

The Lighthouse Wedding Event Center

Photography by Brown Lab Photography Location: The Lighthouse Wedding & Events Style Shoot Design and Coordination by Catalyst Weddings & Events Cake by Signature Cakes Flowers by Green Finch Floral Design Hair & Makeup by Happy Payne - Academy of Make-up Arts Chandelier provided by Bright Event Productions Tent, Outdoor Seating, Linens and Place Settings provided by Ultimate Party Rentals Gown Courtesy of I Do Weddings Tuxedo Courtesy of Street Tuxedo Model: Savannah F., Courtesy of Reflection Agency Model: Jack Ramey

tflemingphotography.com

Raise your glass and toast to the future at Embassy Suites.

The Embassy Suites Murfreesboro - Hotel and Conference Center offers the size and amenities to host the most elegant receptions in a location that is convenient. Plan your wedding reception today by calling 615.890.4464 or at www.murfreesboro.embassysuites.com

Our Southern style wedding packages are designed to provide both you and your guests with VIP treatment.

INVITATION

SAVE-THE-DATES TIPS HOW MANY

RULES FOR

INVITATIONS TO ORDER

INVITATION WORDING

YOUR GUEST LIST per family/couple + 25 extra

WRITE OUT dates and times

PERFECT AMOUNT

CAPITALIZE the first word of the year (ex.Two Thousand and Twelve)

this will help avoid pricey reprints or rush orders

Kelly Lynn Pritchett AND Daniel Le e Mannin g REQUEST TH E HONO

DO NOT ABBREVIATE any words except Mr., Mrs., Jr. and Dr.

SHOULD YOU

DO NOT CAPITALIZE each line unless it is a proper noun (exception: Capitalize all Text)

ORDER SAVE THE DATES?

NO PERIODS at the end of each line

Is your wedding around a HOLIDAY? Do you have several OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS?

“HONOUR” WITH A “U” is traditionally used for church weddings only

Do you have the CUTEST ENGAGEMENT PICTURES and want to share them?

R OF YOUR PRESENCE AT THEIR M ARRIAGE ON SATURD AY, THE TEN TH OF JULY TWO THOU SAND AND THIRTEEN AT SEVEN O’CLOCK IN BLAKE HAL THE EVENIN LOW FARM G | KNOXVI LLE, TENNES DINNER AN SEE D DANCIN G TO FOLL OW

INVITE TIMELINE SEND INVITATIONS: 4-8 weeks before wedding

SEND SAVE THE DATES: 6-8 months before wedding

SEND WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENTS: Day after wedding

THE BIG DAY ORDER INVITES: 3-8 months before wedding

ADDRESSING

DON’T GO POSTAL

YOUR ENVELOPES

AVOID MAILING SURPRISES

355 Woodberry Street Knoxville, Tennessee 37923

Mr. and Mrs. John Peterson 2000 Happy Hallow Drive Knoxville, Tennessee 37923

SPELL OUT ALL WORDS in an address on your envelope (spell out city and state names as well)

Street

St.

Post Office Box Apartment

P.O. Box

Apt.

If you want to hire a calligrapher to address your envelopes, be sure to reserve in advance, so she can schedule your wedding.

BRING A COMPLETED INVITATION TO THE POST OFFICE TO HAVE IT WEIGHED many require postage for at least two ounces, which exceeds the cost of a first class stamp ALSO... Have a reply card and its envelope weighed as well to ensure that you don’t go over - or underpay for that postage. Square or over-sized envelopes require extra postage, as well as invitations with multiple pieces.

Adapted from valmariepaper.com

Kendice Ricci & Geoffrey Hartnell

Kendice Ricci & Geoffrey Hartnell 12.16.12 Our story has been an exciting journey since the beginning. We met while on a trip to India in 2010. We are both development workers abroad and spent the summer interning with an organization called Global Outreach Development Int’l. After the internship, we both continued working with the organization and attended school together. As we worked alongside one another, we became best friends and fell in love. As for our wedding, I did most of the planning, but I really wanted Geoff’s input so that the wedding reflected both of us. That said, I quickly realized that brides have more thoughts and expectations when it comes to weddings. Once I completed most of the initial planning, Geoff was a lot of help. He selected most of the music that we wanted at the reception. He planned the honeymoon and designed the ‘save the dates.’ He made the slideshow that we used during the reception, and also made a blog that will allow us to share our lives with friends and family while we are abroad.

Behind the Story

While most ceremonies are only about 20 minutes these days, our ceremony was unique in that it was an hour and a half long. It was a beautiful ceremony; everything was so meaningful, entertaining, and even comical at times. We had two songs played by professional artists, and my husband wrote and sang a song for me. One of our best friends, who will be working with us as development workers in East Africa, was the officiant of the wedding. We each gave our parents roses with notes wrapped around them thanking them for raising us and preparing us to start a new family. My most memorable moment of the wedding was when I first saw my Geoff. As soon as I saw him, everything else melted away, and I felt so peaceful. Marrying him felt so right. I will never forget his sincerity as he shared the vows he had written with tears in his eyes and words that came through a choked voice. I would like to offer a special thanks to Details Nashville for handling our photography with such professionalism and creativity. Our photographer, Austin, worked with us to come up with lots of fun and memorable poses. He captured so many candid moments from the day that are absolutely irreplaceable. As we look back on such a special day, we are so thankful to have had so many friends and family present to support us in this commitment we have made to one another!

Photographer, Wedding Planner, Officiant, Videographer & Music/Entertainment Details Nashville

Nashville GUIDE WEDDING AND RECEPTION

This section was created to help you choose a reception site for your big day. When you are trying to decide what place is best for your event, keep in mind that every facility has different advantages. You can use the following pages to compare and contrast the benefits of different venues. Once you have narrowed the facilities down make sure you visit them. Take time to sample some of their food and take a tour of the facility. Make sure the place you choose fits all your needs. Many of these facilities can also accommodate your rehearsal dinner or other party needs

Cedarwood Weddings

Kristyn Hogan

Ace Photography

Bluegrass Yacht & country club

The Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club is located in the lush, rolling, green-hills of Hendersonville, TN. Our elegantly appointed Glass Room (dining room) opens onto a covered terrace for indoor/outdoor entertaining overlooking the beautiful 18th green. The Club’s Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 350 Guests. The clubhouse at Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club is Hendersonville’s most desirable location for an intimate evening or a large scale event. Let our private event director serve as your personal wedding consultant to ensure that every detail is attended to with precision and care. Our commitment is to provide service, from the engagement party and shower to the ceremony and reception. 550 East Main Street, Hendersonville 615.824.6528 ext. 111 www.bluegrasscountryclub.com

Wedding & Reception Locations

Come to Cedarwood for romantic outdoor weddings at a picturesque 1830’s antebellum farm estate with historic home, vintage barn, rolling meadows, flower gardens and 50 acres of fresh natural spaces. More than just a venue, we are a team of professionals providing all-inclusive services to fulfill every aspect of your wedding day vision. Gorgeous wedding flowers and decor are always included, plus Cedarwood’s extensive collection of antique props and vintage accessories is yours to use at no additional cost. Let our awardwinning and internationally published event designers infuse your personal style into our country oasis to create an ambiance that is chicly southern and uniquely yours. 3831 Whites Creek Pike, Nashville, TN 37207 615.876.9999 www.cedarwoodweddings.com

Embassy Suites Murfreesboro Hotel and Conference Center

Cheekwood has been voted “Best Place for a Wedding Reception” for 7 years in a row by the Nashville Scene. Why? With 8 beautiful ceremony gardens and 4 different reception venues we offer something for almost every bride. Our Museum of Art & Frist Learning Center (the mansion and stables of the Cheek Estate) are unique to middle Tennessee. We offer a complete range of wedding services including; ceremonies, receptions, bridal & engagement portraits, bridal luncheons & showers, rehearsal dinners, and even proposal packages!

The Embassy Suites Murfreesboro is the ideal location for Bridal Showers, Rehearsal Dinners, Weddings, Receptions & Family Brunches. Located in the heart of Tennessee, we are a one-stop shop for you & your guests. The hotel’s 283 suites surround an atrium rising 10 stories, a perfect setting for event pictures. Our elegant conference center offers the flexibility to accommodate special occasions from 25-1800 guests. We take great pride in providing exceptional food & beverage experiences. We offer many services to make every event memorable, such as great wine selections, distinctive menus, unique ice sculptures.

1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville 615.354.6377 www.cheekwood.org

1200 Conference Center Boulevard, Murfreesboro, TN 615.890.4464 www.murfreesboro.embassysuites.com

Hard Rock Cafe

Hilton Garden Inn Nashville/Vanderbilt

A venue as unique as the city of Nashville. Whether your style is music city rustic or rockin’ modern chic our venue can transform to mirror your vision. With a scratch based kitchen that allows you to further customize your menu to suit any theme and our in house expert planners we will ensure to help deliver the wedding of your dreams. Contact us for a more information or to schedule a pre-planning visit.

The Hilton Garden Inn has the perfect Wedding Reception location! Our 9th floor Ballroom & outdoor Terrace offer incredible views of Nashville’s Downtown Skyline. Our 2013 Wedding Reception Packages begin at $36.00++ per person. Our hotel provides all Food & Beverages, except the Wedding Cake. Many Complimentary Inclusions come with our Packages. Please contact us directly to discuss the details and set up a hotel site tour. We would love to host your special day and make sure it is an overwhelming success.. Yours in Hospitality, The Hilton Garden Inn

100 Broadway, Nashville 37201 615.742.9900 www.hardrock.com/nashville

1715 Broadway, Nashville 615.523.7920 www.nashvillevanderbilt.hgi.com

Candice Jones Photography

Harmony Designs

Cheekwood

Wedding & Reception Locations

hilton nashville downtown

Historic Rock Castle

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re about to experience one of the most important days of your life. Let the Hilton Nashville Downtown make it truly unforgettable. Located in the heart of the city, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve become a classic-favorite Nashville wedding location and reception site perfect for all occasions. Serenade your guests with world-class luxury and service. This landmark Nashville wedding site offers an impressive array of venue options, including 15,000 square feet of meeting space, accommodating up to 1,000 guests, our Grand Ballroom that provides 7,450 square feet of elegant space and hosts 800 for receptions and 650 for banquets, eight smaller salons for more intimate affairs, and an outdoor terrace for breathtaking outdoor ceremonies and receptions.

121 Fourth Avenue South, Nashville 615.620.1000 www.nashvillehilton.com

139 Rock Castle Lane 615.868.3747 www.GrandCentralParty.com

Legacy Farms

The Lighthouse - Wedding Event Center

Legacy Farms is a truly unique destination offering seamless service for your wedding weekend. Our Event Center, Manor House with Bed & Breakfast, covered Pier, and Courtyards are surrounded by 22 acres of peaceful respite. Our property and facilities are perfect for hosting a private event, whether intimate or grande, Legacy Farms has you covered -- even if it rains! There is no need for expensive tenting or complicated backup plans as we can always move the party indoors. With the variety of locations on the same property you have several options to choose from. Contact us for more information.

Welcome to The Lighthouse, a unique, waterfront events venue located on historical Old Hickory Lake in Hendersonville, Tennessee. Your dreams of a sunset wedding overlooking the calm lake waters can easily become reality! With over 8000 square feet, nestled on 3 acres, The Lighthouse offers amazing flexibility to bring any vision to life! Let our professionalism and attention to detail make your special event a memorable one for all to enjoy!

8061 Murfreesboro Road, Lebanon, TN 615.321.2394 www.LegacyFarmsTN.com

133 Sanders Ferry Road, Hendersonville 615.590.7068 www.lighthouseweddingevents.com

Wedding & Reception Locations

Noah Liff Opera Center

Lilac Farms is a predominantly outdoor venue, surrounded by Arrington Vineyard grapevines, large trees and lilacs. With 2 recently renovated homes, red rustic barn and beautiful landscaped grounds there are many options to help you create your perfect wedding. We are uniquely positioned to offer the charm (and wine!) of the vineyard while maintaining privacy for your special day. We invite you to come experience Tennessee Wine Country with us!

The Noah Liff Opera Center is one of Nashville’s newest, most elegant venues. Renowned architect Earl Swensson and Earl Swensson Associates designed this award-winning space to house and inspire the region’s finest opera company. It is now available to host your special event from 2 to 299! Sleek, contemporary design makes the Noah Liff Opera Center the ideal setting for any event. Tours are available by appointment only, preferably during office hours, Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you would like a personal tour, please contact Sarah Willard, at 615.832.5242 x3568.

6201 Patton Road, Arrington 615.878.3262 www.lilacfarmsatarrington.com

3622 Redmon St. 615.832.5242 www.noahliffoperacenter.com

Rocketown

Spring Haven Mansion

Rocketown has two versatile venues whether you are hosting 25 or 500 guests. The open floor plan easily transforms into any wedding dream. Located downtown with free parking, Rocketown offers private entrances, two bridal suites, in house lighting and sound, and hands-on event staffing. Our Events Manager can make recommendations or coordinate any event needs. Rocketown welcomes any outside vendors. With no minimums and no mark-ups, Rocketown is a friendly, hassle-free environment for any personalized informal or formal bridal vision. We can host any element of your wedding weekend from rehearsal dinner, to ceremony, to reception - or all three!

Spring Haven Mansion is a beautiful wedding venue just minutes from Nashville, TN. The grounds of the historic plantation are perfect for outdoor and garden weddings, receptions, or any event. It is one of the top wedding locations in Nashville, TN and provides full service and custom wedding packages at reasonable prices. Whether you need a private room in the mansion or the entire estate, Spring Haven is a wonderful wedding destination for your ceremony. Let professional planners and vendors do the work while you relax and enjoy personalizing your catering, bridal floral, cake, and décor. Your dream awaits you.

601 4th Avenue South Nashville TN 37210 615.843.4003 www.rocketown.com/rentals/weddings

1 Spring Haven Ct. Hendersonville, TN 37075 615.826.9702 www.springhavenmansion.com

Photo by Mary Hagy

Lilac Farms at Arrington Vineyards

Wedding & Reception Locations

The hermitage hotel

union station hotel

Making dreams come true since 1910. The Hermitage Hotel takes pride in providing Tennessee’s finest service and culinary expertise to you and your guests. Our exceptionally creative chefs and experienced caterers will work with you to make your wedding an especially personal celebration. From the moment you walk into our beautiful marble lobby to the time your head falls onto our soft down feather pillows, you will feel every inch the fairy tale princess on her most special of days. We look forward to assisting you with the planning of such a wonderful, special day and we thank you for allowing us to be a part of the beginning of your life together.

Start your life together at Union Station Hotel, Nashville’s Premier site for dazzling wedding ceremonies and receptions. Profess your love among awe-inspiring towers, soaring arches, exquisite stone fireplaces, and elaborate winding staircases. Allow the staff at our timeless wedding reception site to handle everything - from menu selection, linens, and seating plans to photographers, decorations, and audiovisual needs. Let our master chefs cook up a menu that reflects your personality. Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life, and we take pride in celebrating it with you. So relax and focus on your day...we’ll take care of everything else.

231 Sixth Avenue North, Nashville 615.345.7107 www.thehermitagehotel.com

1001 Broadway, Nashville 615.726.1001 www.unionstationhotelnashville.com

Weddings...The Pink Way! www.ThePinkBride.com

Nashville

room capacity

price range per person

outside catering permitted

outside reception area

overnight guest rooms

facility rental fee

ceremony site available

500

$25 and up

Yes

50-175

Varies

Yes

20 to 400

Varies

Yes

25-1,800

$35 - $50

Yes

50-350

Varies

Yes

Hilton Garden Inn Nashville/Vanderbilt 615.523.7920

50 to 250

$36 and up

Yes

Hilton Nashville Downtown 615.620.1000

100 - 800

Varies

Yes

25-500

Varies

Yes

30 to 400

$60 and up

Yes

Lighthouse Wedding Events Center 615.590.7068

50 to 200

Varies

Yes

Lilac Farms at Arrington Vineyards 615.878.3262

10-350

Varies

Yes

2 to 299

Varies

Yes

Varies

Yes

1 to 250

$8-$35

Yes

450

Call

N/A

Yes

Call

Yes

25 to 500

Varies

Yes

Varies

Yes

Venue Chart Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club 615.824.6528

Cedarwood Weddings 615.876.9999

Cheekwood 615.354.6377 Embassy Suites Murfreesboro - Hotel & Conference Center

valet parking

615.890.4464 Hard Rock Cafe

615.742.9900

Historic Rock Castle 615.868.3747

Legacy Farms 615.321.2394

Noah Liff Opera Center 615.832.5242

Rocketown 615.843.4003

Spring Haven Mansion 615.826.9702

The Hermitage Hotel 615.345.7107

Union Station 615.726.1001

Nashville GUIDE Rehearsal Dinner

This section was created to help you choose a rehearsal dinner site for your big day. When you are trying to decide what place is best for your event, keep in mind that every facility has different advantages. You can use the following pages to compare and contrast the benefits of different restaurants. Bear in mind, many of these venues can also accommodate your bridesmaids luncheon or Sunday brunch for out-of-town guests. Once you have narrowed down your desired locations, make sure you visit them. Take time to sample some of their food and take a tour. You want to ensure the place you choose fits all your needs.

Amerigo Italian Restaurant

Discover a Perfect Setting for Your Celebration Fleming’s PrimeBridal Steakhouse & Wine Bar

J C D P V T B I

Amerigo has been a local favorite for over 22 years, offering authentic Italian pastas, hand-made pizzas, fresh seafood and wood-fired steaks. Both of our area locations offer private dining rooms that are perfect for bridal showers, bridesmaid luncheons, rehearsal dinners and small receptions. Whether you prefer a seated meal for eight or a cocktail reception for 60, we will work with you to ensure a flawless event. Customized menus, audio visual equipment and parking are available at no extra charge. To check availability, call Ali Gensert at 615-298-2986. We look forward to hosting your special event! NASHVILLE: 1920 West End Ave. Nashville, TN 37209 COOL SPRINGS: 1656 Westgate Cir. Brentwood, TN 37027 615.298.2986 www.amerigo.net

Prime Steak & 100 Wines by the Glass Fleming’s Nashville is an ongoing celebration of exceptional food and wine, featuring the finest prime steak and an award-winning wine list. Join us for a drink after work and sampleRehearsal our collection wines byParties the glass, or enjoy one of our “Retro Dinnersof• 100 Engagement & Bridal Showers Chic” signature cocktails or a selection from our “Skinnier” cocktails, all only 99 Cocktail Gatherings • Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties calories! Then stay and enjoy an exceptional menu of steak and seafood, including chef-recommended selections such as theDining Filet Oscar and the Blackened Grouper Preset Menus and Custom Arrangements with Tequila Mango Salsa. Our private rooms seat up to 66 guests and are also perfect for more intimate parties of as few as 10. We also open for private lunch events for as many as 100 guests. We are located above P.F. Chang’s, across from Centennial Park and in front of Vanderbilt Stadium. We offer complimentary valet, or have plenty of garage parking. 2525 West End Avenue, Suite 220 615.342.0131 6245 Poplar Avenue, Memphis www.flemingssteakhouse.com/locations/tn/nashville 901-761-6200 www.FlemingsSteakhouse.com/Memphis

Rehearsal Locations

11FMG9568-205_MEM_BrdAd.indd 1

8/18/11 1:54 PM

Maggiano’s Little Italy

Enjoy a relaxing evening the night before your big day at Hard Rock Cafe Nashville Reverb Room. A downtown location, with an indoor/outdoor space, featuring a unique view of the night time skyline, is the perfect setting for rehearsal dinners. We offer custom created dishes or inclusive prefixe menus to suit your taste and budget. The Hard Rock staff is fun and interactive ensuring your special guests have an authentic experience that ROCKS!

Maggiano’s Little Italy is the perfect place to bring family and friends together to celebrate your engagement party, bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, wedding/ reception, or day-after-brunch. Whether it’s an intimate, candlelit ceremony and dinner or lively reception with guests dancing the night away we can deliver the special day you’ve always dreamed of. You’ll enjoy the wedding of a lifetime with great food, warm hospitality and the beautiful setting you deserve.

100 Broadway, Nashville 37201 615.742.9900 www.hardrock.com/nashville

3106 West End Ave Nashville Tn, 37203 615.514.0280 www.maggianos.com

Candice Jones Photography

Hard Rock Cafe

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Wedding Professionals, Your Company Listing Could Be Here!

Offering a prime steakhouse experience to excite the senses, our private dining rooms are perfect location for your gathering.

With rooms to accommodate anything from cocktail parties to sit-down dinners, our dedicated events team strives to serve up the best in quality and service for you and your guests.

2100 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203 615.320.0163 www.ruthschris.com

Rehearsal Locations

Nashville Rehearsal

Enjoy one of our Next room capacity

price range per person

type of Cuisine

private room/ area

outdoor area

facility rental fee

outside catering permitted

8-60

$15 to $30

Italian

Yes

up to 66

$50 to $150

American Cuisine/ Steakhouse

Yes

up to 350

$35 to $65

American

Yes

15-170

Varies

Southern Italian

Yes

15-60

55+

Great American Steak House

Yes

Dinner Chart

Amerigo Italian Restaurant 615.298.2986

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 615.342.0131

Hard Rock Cafe 615.742.9900

Maggiano’s Little Italy 615.514.0280

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 615.320.0163

outside alcohol permitted

valet parking

Enjoy one of our Next

Pink Bridal Shows Knoxville, Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, Tri-Cities and Murfreesboro Tennessee

Experience everything youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to create your perfect wedding Showcasing only the best wedding professionals!

NASHVILLE Pink Bridal Show January 19, 2014 Music City Center

For more information or to buy tickets call 865.531.3941 or visit www.ThePinkBride.com

Brittney Ray & Michael Nelson 05.03.13 The entire week leading up to the wedding, I was very emotional, but by the time the day came, I didn’t have a lot of tears left. Mike, on the other hand, was a basket case. It was so cute hearing stories from my dad, the groomsmen and the bridesmaids who got to see him before the ceremony of how emotional he was. It melted my heart to hear that and to see how much the day meant to him. Our wedding colors were hot pink and lime green! I love hot pink, and I wanted something that would pop with it, so I randomly chose the lime green. I think that everyone thought I was crazy, and I don’t think the bridesmaids were very impressed with their begonia dresses, but the day of the wedding, it was overcast, and the colors were so vibrant and beautiful in the garden. After the ceremony and the typical family, bridal party, and couple photos, our venue had a private gazebo where Mike and I were able to share a private dinner away from all the guests. This gave us about 20 minutes to eat some well-needed and delicious food, and to reminisce on the day’s events. It was probably one of the most memorable parts of our wedding. We had been so busy the whole week of the wedding entertaining family and friends that we barely got to spend any one-on-one time with each other. In the gazebo, we were alone, and it felt like a first date kind of. It was so nice to have this special moment with my new husband.

Brittney Ray & Michael Nelson

Rob Mould Photography was outstanding to work with! He was very punctual, prepared, creative, and made us feel so comfortable. His main goal was for us to enjoy and savor our day. In doing so, we were so relaxed and had a very memorable day. He was able to catch it all without us ever really noticing him. From the rehearsal dinner to getting ready to the ceremony to the reception...he was able to capture the whole atmosphere and details with amazing quality and precision. We highly recommend him to anyone! Mike planned the entire honeymoon. We took off for the honeymoon a week after the wedding. This gave us ample time to visit with our guests, who came in from out of town, and to clean up and go through gifts and write thank you cards. This was one of the best decisions we made because we were able to come home from the honeymoon without any “wedding chores” to do. We went to Jamaica for our honeymoon for 6 days/5 nights. We stayed at Couples Resort - Swept Away on Negril Beach. It was a luxurious allinclusive resort that was amazing! Mike surprised me with a couples and a single massage and with a private dinner on the beach. We both enjoyed ourselves very much on this trip.

Behind the Story

Photographer Rob Mould Photography Formalwear Street Tuxedo Rehearsal Dinner Hard Rock Cafe

Original Photograph by Kristyn Hogan, www.kristynhogan.com

Timeless Photograph by Brooke Boling, www.brookeboling.com

Enchanting

nicole warren

photography.design

615.722.7174 www.nicolewarren.me nicole@nicolewarren.me

Photograph by Chris and Adrienne Scott, www.chrisandadriennescott.com

615-859-9002 â&#x20AC;˘ www.enchantedfloristtn.com

Kristin & Chris Blazer 05.18.13

Monica Hill & Robert Anderson 09.21.13

Laci Upchurch & Zackary Parker 05.19.13

Puccini Photography

Forever Images

Melanie Fann & Dek Sissom 06.29.13

Jessica Castillo & Kevin Spence 06.01.13

Jenny Jones & Chris Saetveit 06.22.2013

Candice Jones Photography

High Gravity Photography

Ace Photography

View this magazine online at ThePinkBride.com

Katie Bernstein & Colin Forsyth 06.15.2013

Brynn & Mitchell Buchanan 05.26.13

Ace Photography

Details Nashville

Congratulations To all of these Nashville couples

Timeless.

Memories begin at Cheekwood.

615.354.6377 | specialevents@cheekwood.org

Photo credit: Rachel Moore Photography, Cali Huber

Events for every occasion

Jessica Castillo & Kevin Spence 06.01.13 I transferred from The Cheesecake Factory in Birmingham, AL, to the Nashville, TN, location on January 19, 2012. My first shift at work, I remember Kevin introducing himself to me, and I noticed he was a really nice person and would be a great friend to have. Not long after, we began talking all the time during our shifts at work and through text messaging. I instantly knew he was my other half after our second date. On May 7, we found out we were expecting a baby in November. After discussing and agreeing we’d wait until after the baby to talk about marriage, on the morning of Sept 7, 2012, Kevin brought me breakfast in bed and asked me to be his wife! Our engagement was almost nine months long.

Jessica Castillo & Kevin Spence

Everything at our wedding turned out to be more than I had dreamed. My dad and Kevin are both very goofy and funny people, and they helped me stay calm by just being themselves. At one point when I tried to sit down, I wasn’t able to calculate where the chair was under my puffy dress, and I almost fell over! Kevin saw me tipping over and grabbed my arm to pull me back up. I got emotional seeing a picture on the altar of our baby girl, Ava Marie, who became our sweet angel on November 12, 2012. I definitely felt her presence there with us as we said our vows. My most memorable moment was seeing Kevin’s big smile waiting for me at the altar. Our wedding colors were wisteria and lite watermelon. It is tradition in a Mexican Catholic wedding to exchange arras, coins, as a sign of God’s blessing and the material things Kevin and I are going to share. We then were united by a laso, a large rosary, as a symbol of the dissoluble union that Kevin and I have established. Kevin’s mother, my mother, and I each took a rose to the Blessed Virgin Mary to thank her and to pray for our new life together. I am most thankful to have hired High Gravity Photography. Allie and TJ were very creative, nice and easygoing. They were beyond prepared for the few problems that arose and handled it all themselves, so I didn’t have to turn into bridezilla. I had forgotten my money and a few wedding items at my house, and TJ drove out to pick them up for me. Allie has some true ninja skills because most of the time, I didn’t even know she was near me snapping pictures.

Behind the Story

Photographer High Gravity Photography Bridal Shop Glitz Bridal & Formalware Rentals and Decor Classic Party Rentals

ClassiC Party rentals 1510 Elm Hill Pike, Suite 200, Nashville, TN 37210 Phone: 615.641.1111 www.ClassicPartyRentals.com â&#x20AC;˘

Classic Party Rentals

Haley Watson & Michael Orred 09.29.12 Planning our wedding was probably a little different from most brides in that our family owns Grand Central Party Rental. With over 5000 weddings under our belt and dozens of bridal shows, my sisters and I have grown up seeing many wedding setups, along with attending a lot of bridal shows. Planning our wedding was very much a family affair.

Haley Watson & Michael Orred

Michael and I met my senior year of college in South Carolina. He being a frat brother and myself being in a sorority sister, we knew that a lot of people would be coming in from out of town. We expected close to 300 people to attend the wedding and reception. The most important thing for us was for our guests to remember it as a great time. I love a reception under a tent. We chose a 50’ x 120’ frame tent with the ceiling lit in blue along with chandeliers and lounge furniture. Our wedding colors were black, baby blue and silver. We also used peacock feathers as accents. Michael loves cigars, so we added a 30’ x 30’ draped tent with a chandelier, lounge furniture, bistro tables and bar. We put cigars at the bar and on all the tables and called it the cigar bar lounge; it was a huge hit with not only the fathers but the frat brothers as well. Lastly, we added a 10’ x 10’ tent and put a photo booth from Ace Photography under it. Photo booths along with the props are a fun addition and are sure to provide entertainment for your guests. I think everyone had their photo taken at least once if not twice. Somehow, my three-year-old nephew managed to get in half the pictures. We enjoyed bouncing ideas around with our caterer, and they did a great job working with us on the presentation and the theme we wanted. I love doing food stations at a reception, and for props, we used things you might find in Grandma’s attic to accent the tables. We also had a dessert table for the guests to take homemade desserts with them as a gift. Each dessert was made by a family member from a family recipe. We had pecan pies made by my grandparents, strawberry preserves made by my mom, cupcakes made by my cousin, and cookies made by a family friend. They were each individually packaged with a verse printed on them. We both loved that everyone was able to have fun and celebrate our day. This being from my grandfather on the dance floor with all the bridesmaids and the bridesmaids knocking each other down at the bouquet toss, to my three-year-old nephew on the dance floor (that is when he wasn’t in the photo booth). My mom will tell you with a smile, “We’re all about the party.” Family and friends still tell me how wonderful our reception was and how much fun they had. For Michael and I, there’s nothing better than knowing everyone loved our wedding and still thinks about it months later. Your wedding is a special day. Relax, and don’t sweat the small stuff. Get organized, and plan in advance. Finally, be sure to select the best wedding professionals.

Behind the Story

Rentals and Decor Grand Central Party Rentals, Photographer Ace Photography, Caterer 8 Lavender Lane Catering, Ceremony Location First Methodist Church of Gallatin, DJ Spangler Entertainment, Reception Location Hazel Path Mansion, Rentals and Decor Grand Central Party Rentals, Officiant/ Minister Kenneth M. Dove, Bridal Shop & Bridal Party Attire Bridal Warehouse

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Lindsey Shelton & Jordan Waskiewicz 09.29.12 Jordan and I actually met when I was 20, but we had tons of mutual friends and went to the same high school. We knew who each other was but had never met. Picking colors was hard because I wasn’t that little girl who had her whole wedding day already planned out. So I decided to go with my favorite season, fall. I just picked fall flowers and picked colors to match. It came out perfect.

Lindsey Shelton & Jordan Waskiewicz

Our sign-in table was an old antique desk and double chair set. We found an old vintage camera, and Jordan decided to dig up these old black and white photos of our ancestors and spread them out, so they were used as the desktop. Surprisingly, Jordan planned the majority of our wedding. I picked out the colors, the style of bridesmaid dresses, and of course, my dress. We both fell in love with the venue when we pulled onto the property. Jordan knows I love antiques, vintage furniture, and collectibles, so he took the idea and ran with it. I was the last one to see the ceremony and reception areas. My dad, the groomsmen, and Jordan spent the whole day setting up while I was getting ready with the bridesmaids. I didn’t get a chance to see everything until after we were married. Our photographer and caterer were sent to us from heaven. We could not have asked for a more professional and down-to-earth group. Ann (photographer) took about 700 pictures. She was there from the time we started getting ready until almost the end of the reception. She captured the biggest day of my life better than I could have ever dreamed. For our honeymoon, we took two weeks and flew to Kauai, Hawaii, for one and Destin, Florida, for the other. Kauai is the most beautiful place I have ever seen. We did a helicopter tour of the island, an ATV tour of the island, and we did a boat tour of the Na Pali coast. We go to Destin every year in September with my parents. Jordan’s mom lives there, so we decided to just make it a very long honeymoon and cap it off with our family vacation.

Behind the Story

Photographer Forever Images Bridal Shop Glitz Bridal Ceremony & Reception Location Historic Rock Castle, Transportation Grand Avenue Rentals and Decor Grand Central Party

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Ellen Francis & Martin Ross 10.20.12

Ellen Francis & Martin Ross

Martin and I met through mutual friends at the University of Tennessee. We actually went to the same school for kindergarten and first grade, but we didn’t get to know one another until college. Marty worked at a summer camp in Missouri during the first months of our relationship, but we wrote letters, and our love blossomed. We dated for a year and a half before Marty proposed. He took me to Radnor Lake, a local nature trail near where Marty grew up. I was mesmerized by all the ducks on the lake and kept interrupting Marty while he was trying to pop the question to me. I had no idea he was trying to propose! We were engaged for 10 months before “the big day.” On my wedding day, my bridesmaids made me laugh and were able to help calm my nerves somewhat. I hate to admit it, but I was a nervous bride. I cried like a baby during our first look. I knew beforehand that it was to be expected, so I made sure all of my makeup was waterproof. My sister, Elizabeth, discovered that her bridesmaid dress wouldn’t zip up all the way a day before the wedding. It was a disaster. Elizabeth and my mom had to call around to the local seamstresses and beg for mercy. One lady, bless her heart, finally agreed to help try and fix it. Somehow, with the help of several bridesmaids, we were able to get it zipped and on all the way. The wedding colors were sage green, eggplant and peach. We wanted to do something different for a fall wedding, not incorporating the “typical fall” wedding colors. We think it turned out really well. Something special we did was that we had my grandfather sing “The Lord’s Prayer” during our ceremony. It was a very special moment. We later found out Marty’s grandfather was also singing along loudly from his seat in the sanctuary. We could have had a duet! Our parents really helped a ton with the decorating and DIY stuff. My dad did the majority of the addressing for the wedding invitations. He has fabulous handwriting for a left-handed male, we must add! Both of our sets of parents helped with the little touches here and there, such as the signs and pictures of family displayed at the ceremony and reception. Our photographers, Emily Jordan and Ashley White with Blue Mason Photography, really made our engagement and wedding photography a special and fun experience. They had such wonderful and creative ideas. Their personalities helped us relax and soak up the special moments. Their excitement and giddiness over the photos they took during our shoots helped us see how very passionate they are about their work. It was fun to witness their pure joy after capturing a photo. We were all the more thrilled to view our pictures once they were put together for us to see.

Behind the Story

Photographer Blue Mason Photography Cake The Bake Shoppe

Kristin Hayes & Chris Blazer

Kristin Hayes & Chris Blazer 05.18.13 Chris and I met online. We had our first date at Old Chicago and definitely hit it off. We stayed there for hours talking and getting to know each other. He proposed June 26, 2012, while we were on vacation with our good friends in Florida. I almost ruined it for him. That day, we were in the ocean, and he was being so sweet, so I jokingly asked him, “Why are you being so nice to me? Are you going to propose or something?” He just had this blank stare, and I thought I scared him talking about it! That night, he wanted just us to go out to dinner, and so while I was getting ready, he asked me to come out to the balcony because there was something I had to see! I walked out there, and he was down on one knee, asking me to spend the rest of our lives together! Eleven months later, we are happily married!!!

Behind the Story

On our big day, I got to spend time with all of my bridesmaids and Mom in the bridal suite. We had so much fun joking around and getting ready for the ceremony! Across the lake, the guys got to play corn hole and hang out in the groom’s loft with TV, pool, and Playstation. It was a pretty cool setup. The most memorable moments during the ceremony were when we didn’t light the unity candle (they moved it after rehearsal, and we had no idea where it was), I put Chris’ ring on the wrong hand because I was so nervous, and lastly, on the way out, I completely forgot my bouquet. But it was still the best day of my life! Our colors were light blue and orange. We definitely had to have orange in the wedding since Chris and I are huge UT Vols fans. We had Puccini Photography for our engagement pictures and our wedding pictures. I actually put in for their grand prize at the Pink Bridal Show and actually won it! (I never win anything!) I’m so happy I won that because I couldn’t imagine having any other photographers there for our special day! They are truly amazing to work with, and Chris and I couldn’t be happier!! They got our pictures back so fast! Not only do you receive the best care from them, but they are a blast to work with! During our engagement pictures, we were all laughing at the end of the night and having an amazing time! They are so creative! We will use Maggie and Kristin from now on!!

Photographer Puccini Photography Cake Signature Cakes by Vicki

TOP

BRIDAL MYTHS

Debunked!

Is wedding advice coming at you from every angle? Determine what’s fact and what’s fiction by debunking these common wedding myths.

IT’S NOT REALLY A WEDDING IF YOU DON’T FOLLOW TRADITION. The first person to buck tradition and wear white was Queen Victoria (that’s right...brides have not always worn white). This is now taken for granted as standard attire as is a wedding cake, first dance, bouquet toss and something blue. A wedding simply requires an officiant, license and witness. The celebration of said wedding should be an expression of the couple’s personalities, and sometimes breaking the rules leads to new traditions that are a better fit than those of past generations.

The Bride’s parents pay for wedding and reception; groom’s parents pay for rehearsal dinner. Wouldn’t it be nice if Mom and Dad still footed the bill? Not so with modern weddings. This myth goes out the window, as at least a third of wedding costs are now covered by the couple themselves. Families today are pooling their resources and then, together, determining how funds are spent for all related events.

Thank-you notes can be sent by email.

THE BRIDE CAN ONLY BE GIVEN AWAY BY HER FATHER.

While email is the preferred way of communication for many a message, it is generally frowned upon when thanking your wedding guests. Hand written thank-you notes are far from outdated, and though tedious to a generation of texters, it must be done. Appreciate this dying art, and take the time to communicate as your grandparents would. Years later, a friend will dig out your hand written note, carefully saved. Not your email.

This myth dates back to the days of old, when daughters were literal property of their fathers, and a wedding was merely a business deal for Dad to expand his fortunes through the sale of his daughter. While the tradition still sticks to this day, I doubt very much that modern brides would describe themselves as part of dad’s estate. Your aisle escort should be a person that played a significant and supportive role in your path to finding true love.

WEDDING LUCK (AND MARRIAGE) DEPENDS ON A SIXPENCE, SPIDERS AND SUPERSTITIONS. Here’s the thing about luck... it all depends on the belief that wearing a certain color, carrying a token or changing your behavior will shift future events to their preferred outcome. Luck is mostly used as a way to counter those things completely out of our control and has often been a way of explaining the unexplained. If only making it through the first year of marriage was as easy as saving the top tier of your cake. Make your own luck with careful planning, professional vendors and a positive attitude.

Vendors will always give a discount if you ask.

If you can’t foot the bar bill, offer a cash bar.

Wedding vendors are not Mexican bazaars where you haggle the best possible deal. While a vendor may run a promotion, expecting to get a discount because you’re a bride is like expecting your doctor to run a special because you’re a patient. This doesn’t make long-term business sense. Instead, plan to attend a local bridal show for show-only specials or giveaways, and be honest about your budget and vision with wedding vendors. Professionals will work with brides to find creative ways to stretch your buck and meet their bottom line.

Cash bars are T-A-C-K-Y... as well as anything else on your wedding day that require your guests to pony up cash. Remember these are the same dearly loved friends and family that bought a special outfit, traveled across the country, paid for a hotel room and bought you a gift for your wedding. During the wedding day, guests’ wallets should stay in back pockets and purses. Tactful Solution: If you are set on offering liquor at your wedding but fear the cost, consider a limited bar with only wine and beer (better yet keg beer, often costing half as much per serving as bottled).

Brides on a budget save big with DIY Projects.

Wedding Day is the Bride’s Day.

With the vastness of today’s World Wide Web, the likelihood of finding a bargain can make DIY more costly than one thinks. This is even more apparent when your inner crafter is not well-matched to make DIY magic (but Martha Stewart made it look so easy!). And remember, time is money, even if it is your time. Be realistic about how much time will need to be dedicated to DIY projects, particularly in the last few weeks leading up to wedding day (when the to-do list is never ending and you’d rather be with your family). If the budget is stretched thin, it might make more sense to skip it all together.

While you and your groom are certainly the guests of honor, a bride with her sights set on making wedding day entirely about her is likely to be labeled a bridezilla. Weddings are as much about the happy couple and their new life together as it is a celebration for all the related family members. Instead, find ways to celebrate your family or close friends and their traditions with your new love and the traditions in store for years to come. This ensures your guests feel part of a truly special event.

Your bridal party must have the same number of bridesmaids and groomsmen. Today’s bride has thrown out all the rules when it comes to bridal parties. With your closest friends and family by your side on wedding day, trying to stay in the box of specific numbers or even genders just doesn’t work. Nowadays, your maid of honor is now your man of honor, pooches are playing ring bearer and dancing to the altar is what makes wedding ceremonies personal, memorable and unique.

To find more articles like this one, go to ThePinkBook.com. Our blog is updated daily with advice, inspiration and real weddings!

Tara Allison & Kyle Miller October 22, 2012 PHOTOGRAPHY BY Stevie Ramos Photography

Tara Allison & Kyle Miller 10.22.12 Kyle and I got engaged in Greenville, South Carolina, at the bottom of a waterfall. (Falls Park on the Reedy) It’s absolutely gorgeous there! If you have never been, I would suggest a trip there! He actually knew he wanted to propose on our vacation there but just didnt know when, so he slipped the ring in his pocket and figured he would be spontaneous about it. When the right moment came along, he would do it! When we were walking down by the waterfalls, he felt it was the right time. He just kept telling me how much he loved me and wanted to have a family, and I know him like the back of my hand, so I kept wondering why he was continually repeating himself. Then it occurred to me that he was really trying to propose! Bless his heart; he was so nervous! Fortunately for him, I said yes. Best day of my life! Other than our wedding day, which felt like an absolute dream. We really are so blessed. Our wedding day was everything I have ever dreamed of and so much more! The weather was perfect. We prayed for no rain, and the day could not have been more beautiful outside! The Nottoway is the oldest antebellum plantation in the South and sits right on the Mississippi River. Our wedding was small, and we only had about twenty-five people attend. My husband and I didn’t want to have a “bridal party” per say due to the fact that we wanted the focus to be on us and not everyone else. After my bridal portraits, it was just about time for me to come down the plantation’s gorgeous staircase and walk down the aisle to marry the man of my dreams! But, before I did, we wanted to pray together. I didn’t want my groom to see me because I waited a long time for this moment, and I wanted to see his face when he saw me for the first time as I was walking down the aisle. So he was blind folded, and we prayed, and I felt so calm. I walked down the aisle to a remix of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” and then once I got closer to the aisle, the DJ played “Marry Me” by Train. I wanted to have lots of music because I feel like it sets the mood for the wedding. It was so important to me, and my DJ was amazing! His timing with our music was perfect. I cried the entire way down the aisle. I couldn’t help it! I just was so happy! We both wrote our own vows, and my husband’s grandparents married us (they have been married for over 50 years with 5 kids and are a wonderful example of what marriage should be like). They both did an amazing job, and we would not have had our ceremony any other way! All of the wedding professionals helping with the wedding were amazing! I was blessed with an amazing group of professionals who made me feel beautiful and comfortable the entire day! I love how they all were so kind and caring, and they really helped make my day so special!

Behind the Story

Photographer Stevie Ramos Photography

Joanna Caldarulo & Andrew Jeanfreau

Joanna Caldarulo & Andrew Jeanfreau 10.13.12 Andrew and I met while studying for our Doctorate of Physical Therapy at the University of Tennessee, Allied Health Science Center in Memphis, TN. We dated for a year and a half and got engaged August 6th of 2011. Since I was aware that an engagement was coming up in the next few months, Andrew had to find a way to surprise me. On what I thought was any everyday morning run, Andrew stopped after only 10 minutes, stating he had to use the restroom. Luckily we were downtown on the same street as our church, so he thought he would just run in there. After much convincing to get me to come in, I entered the church and saw rose petals, a table full of flowers and all the notes/cards/letters we had ever written on a table at the end of the aisle. Andrew then proposed, and our priest came out and gave us a blessing for our engagement and future marriage. It was absolutely perfect! I cannot describe how perfect our wedding day was. It was everything we could have hoped for! The most memorable moment was seeing each other for the first time. The groomsmen wore black tuxedos, and the bridesmaids wore grey short dresses. Best day of our lives! In lieu of a wedding favor, Andrew and I decided to donate money to the American Cancer Society. We made a bookmark for the guests to take with them, with names in memory of our loved ones who passed away from this disease and all those survivors who are still with us. We have many close loved ones who have struggled through this illness and wanted to honor all of them at our wedding. Andrew planned our honeymoon! We went to Whitehouse Jamiaca, Sandals Resort. It was much needed and we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to go back! Perfect first week of marriage. :)

Behind the Story

Photographer Ace Photography Cake The Bake Shoppe Bridal Shop & Bridal Party Attire Arzelles

Three Reasons a Photo Booth Makes Your Wedding Fabulous!

with ShutterBooth Nashville Fun. Unique. Memorable. ShutterBooth Nashville offers all this and more for the biggest day of your life with premier photo booths providing one purpose: to make your wedding fabulous! Read below for the top three reasons to choose a ShutterBooth photo booth for your wedding.

1. Entertain your guests throughout the evening. From props to poses, they’ll be laughing the night away and talking about your wedding for years to come. With ShutterBooth Nashville, you won’t have to worry that guests are bored at any time throughout the evening since they are welcome to return to the booth as often as they’d like!

2. Get an entertaining picture of every single guest! Your photographer may not be able to snag a candid photo of every guest at your wedding, but ShutterBooth Nashville can with their cozy, state-of-the-art photo booths. Get even the shyest guests involved in the fun at your wedding! Also, ShutterBooth Nashville always provides unlimited prints for each guest at the event.

3. Give the gift of memories to your guests…and yourself! Your guests won’t throw these favors away! Each photo strip is personalized with your names and wedding date, so guests won’t forget where they had such a great time letting their hair down. The giving doesn’t stop there, though. With ShutterBooth Nashville, guests can create a unique guest book masterpiece, filled with their own photo booth images and well wishes. You and your new spouse can celebrate the occasion too with entertaining images of yourselves as the new Mr. and Mrs. With thank you cards, personalized photo strips, and more, ShutterBooth Nashville has everything you need for one momentous occasion!

DJs entertain, photographers capture memories, and ShutterBooth does both while supplying a favor your guests will cherish forever. We can even help you “Save the Date,” show your guests to their tables, decorate your home, and even document your best friends telling us their favorite memories with ShutterVideo.

Personalize your day with products that are uniquely you with ShutterBooth Nashville. Check out all we have to offer! • Save the Dates • Thank You Cards • Table Number Stands • Interactive Guest Books • Personalized videos • Gorgeous photo strips!

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Weddings...The Pink Way! www.ThePinkBride.com

Artistic Design ~ Gourmet Dessert

The Wedding Cake The two ingredients that will make your cake a success to remember!

In choosing a wedding cake, I’ve often heard people ask, “Do I have to sacrifice taste for design?” My answer to that is, “No, a thousand times NO! Nor should you ever consider doing so!” The wedding reception is the celebration part of the day. In other words, it’s a party. Howbeit, probably the most elaborate and significant party you will ever host for those near and dear to you. Keeping that in mind, have you ever asked yourself what a guest expects when they attend a wedding reception? I know that most of you brides are thinking about the beautiful decor and the impression it will give as your guests arrive. And, of course, those elements are important. However, ask yourself a simple question. What do you anticipate the most when YOU attend a party? Over the years I’ve asked many, many people that simple question. The answer is really quite simple. People respond in a variety of different ways, but the meaning is always the same . . . “Good food, good drink and great fun!” Of course, how you practically carry that out will vary from couple to couple. Some brides and grooms will have a barn reception overlooking gorgeous vistas with all the amenities, others a four course sit down dinner at a five star hotel, yet another will enjoy country club setting over looking the golf course with a signature drink in hand. Another couple might love a roof top urban setting with a live band and another will enjoy a warehouse, exposed brick style with trendy hor derves. Still others will have a backyard celebration with fruit tea and barbeque ribs. Whatever your preference and style, the bottom line is that you want your guests to enjoy the food, drink and fun. And that, dear brides and grooms, is what your guests will remember the best and chat about the most when the night is over. I’m sure that most brides have heard the saying, “The cake is to the reception what the dress is to the ceremony.” And that is a very true saying. However, there is one thing that every couple needs to keep in mind when choosing their wedding cake. The impact of the artistic impression of your cake can be overshadowed by the dismal realization of the lack of or poor taste of your dessert confection. Okay, that was a mouth full so, in other words, if it doesn’t taste good, it doesn’t matter how beautiful it is. Your guests will remember the taste of your cake far longer than they will remember how spectacular it appeared. Therefore, don’t be the bride that says, “I don’t care what it tastes like, I just want it to be WOW!” There is no reason that you cannot have both! Have a delicious pastry confection that is a show stopper! Or have a scrumptious, melt in your mouth bite of cake that is rustic and romantic. Yet still, have a ambrosial delicacy that is modern with clean lines. The sky is the limit in style! But, if there is one piece of advice I would give a bride and a groom it is this . . . remember first and foremost THAT IT IS CAKE!

Signature Cakes by Vicki

www.signaturecakesbyvicki.com 615.513.2266

Sarai Perkins & Jonathan Lewis 06.22.13 Our wedding day was everything we could have ever wanted. It was literally my fairy tale wedding! From the minute I woke up until we went to bed, everything was perfect. My magnificent bridesmaids, my mom and I started off the day making ourselves beautiful for the occasion. We drank mimosas, snacked on food and laughed the morning away as my hairdresser, Mindy, curled, pinned, and sprayed our locks. Soon enough, it was time to head to our gorgeous venue, Legacy Farms in Lebanon, TN.

Sarai Perkins & Jonathan Lewis

There I was standing with my daddy on my left arm and my little man clinching my right hand. I remember looking into my daddy’s eyes thinking, “Welp, this is it.” Choking back the tears while my daddy’s eyes were full, I could not have been any happier to have the privilege of the two most important guys in my life walk me down the aisle. Between Jonathan, my dad, and all the bridesmaids crying, they didn’t make it easy on me. The look on Jonathan’s face was so pure and sincere… I couldn’t wait to get to him and give him a kiss. After the ceremony, our remarkable photographers, Blue Mason Photography, took our pictures. We were then ready for the night of our lives. Our reception was full of great friends and family, laughs, dancing, and incredible food. We spent most of the time dancing the night away. Jon and I wanted everyone to have fun at our wedding most of all. We truly believe that our wedding was the best night of our lives! We could not have asked for a more perfect and fun wedding. We are blessed beyond measure and thrilled about the many years to come! We did a lot of unique things throughout our wedding to truly capture who we are. Lindsey, my matron of honor, made the three flowers that were in my hair and the flower on the flower girl’s dress. My mom made my garters out of her wedding dress, which was also my MomMom’s and great Aunt’s dress. She hand-sewed a Florida Gator and Alabama emblem on the garter with a pearl heart binding the two together. Jon and I clearly will be living in a divided SEC house. My mom was able to use the pearls from her veil, which made it even more special. We hired Blue Mason Photography to do all of our pictures for our wedding. These girls are truly astonishing!! Ashley and Emily take their time to get to know you as a couple so that they can capture your personalities in each picture. They did our engagement pictures, bridal portraits, and wedding day, and every single picture is breathtaking! We HIGHLY recommend these girls to anyone and everyone! Not only are their pictures incredible, but they themselves have true beauty on the inside and out.

Behind the Story ~ Congrats to our ~ Cover Contest

Runner-Up

Photographer Blue Mason Photography Bridal Shop The Spoiled Lady Florist The Enchanted Florist Caterer A Catered Affair Cake The Bake Shoppe Formalwear Street Tuxedo Ceremony & Recpetion Location Legacy Farms

Jordan Wheeler & Maral Darakhshanian 09.28.13

Meggan Hackney & Daniel Woodard 07.07.13

Kim Ov & Brain Nguyen 07.06.13

Rob Mould Photography

Nicole Warren Photography

Focal Expressions by Ned

Melissa Mears & Larrion Person 10.05.13

Natalie Cole & James Christopher Smith 09.14.13

Kay Sullivan & Stephen Shope 04.27.13

Forever Images

Candice Jones Photography

Blue Mason Photography

Megan Lawerence & Matt Nale 09.28.13

Tara Carver & Cody Steele 10.05.2013

Amanda Fultz & Scott Hornby 10.26.13

High Gravity Photography

Ace Photography

Details Nashville

Congratulations To all of these Nashville couples

YOUR WEDDING WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

615.642.3587 www.AnnsForeverImages.com

Ginger Sparks & Joseph Connor 10.14.12 Joseph and I met as students at Belmont University when we were asked to co-host the same ensemble concert. After nine months of relationship bliss, Joseph proposed in January of 2012. On that perfect night, he filled his entire house to the brim with hundreds of candles. He had me show up and follow written instructions, taking me from room to room, where he had our five best friends placed individually throughout the house to read me love notes Joseph had written for me. We were engaged for nine months before having our dream wedding at Historic Cedarwood in Nashville, Tennessee.

Ginger Sparks & Joseph Connor

Our wedding day couldn’t have been more beautiful or perfect, and it is a day that all those who attended won’t soon forget. The ceremony was outside, and though the weather forecast called for severe thunderstorms all day, the rain miraculously held off until the last outdoor picture was taken. The clouds even provided for breathtaking photography. Joseph and I both have extremely outgoing and fun personalities which made the reception a party to remember! The night featured a photo booth, a delectable spread, drinks, cake, and hours of dancing, including a surprise choreographed dance by the two of us. By the end of the night, everyone looked as if they had just run a marathon - very happy and very sweaty! Historic Cedarwood is a fantastic all-inclusive venue, and they made wedding planning easier than I could have ever dreamed. All that was left to us to organize was the guest list, videographer, and outfitting for the wedding party. That being said, Joseph was a dream fiancé, constantly offering to do any and everything I would delegate to him with a huge smile on his face. He completely took care of all groomsmen details without having to be reminded and gathered all information for his side of the guest list promptly and efficiently. I am fully aware of how rare this is; I was a very blessed bride! I can’t recommend the all-inclusive route enough if you can find a top-quality venue that you love and provides those services. I can say with all honesty that there wasn’t a minute of my engagement or wedding planning that I felt stressed, and it was entirely due to fact that we used an all-inclusive venue. Historic Cedarwood took care of our flowers and all of our decor and partnered with the wonderful vendors for our ceremony, from the musicians, DJ, catering, cake, all paper products, photographer, hair/makeup, and transportation. Any questions or concerns we had went to one person assigned to our wedding at Cedarwood, and she handled all contacts with our vendors. It made wedding planning one of the most fun experiences I’ve ever had!

Behind the Story

Photographer Ace Photography Wedding Planner Linda Wright, Historic Cedarwood Florist, Rentals & Decor & Cake, Ceremony & Reception Location Historic Cedarwood Invitations & Calligraphy Designs in Paper

Vintage Glamour at

Nashvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hard Rock Cafe Many thanks to all the wedding professionals who made this shoot happen! Photographer: Candice Jones Photography Venue: Hard Rock Cafe Consultant and Shoot Design: Camie Occasions Flowers: Branching Out Floral & Event Design Catering: Hard Rock Cafe Cupcakes: Details Nashville Draping: Blue Nova Stationery: Details Nashville Gowns: Genyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridal and Bridal Warehouse Tuxedos: Street Tuxedo Videography: Details Nashville Car: Grand Avenue Transportation Outdoor Seating: Liberty Party Rental Chairs, Place Settings, and Linens: Liberty Party Rental Hair: Lisa Blanton, Turning Heads Salon Bridget Holt, Mane Image Hair Salon Lauren Brown, Tangles Salon Makeup: Amber Campbell, Mane Image Hair Salon

Location: The Original Silver Dollar Building Photo by Candice Jones Photography

Gown by Genyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridal Tuxedo by Street Tuxedo Flowers by Branching Out Floral & Event Design Car courtesy of Grand Avenue Transportation Photo by Candice Jones Photography

Gown by Bridal Warehouse Tuxedo by Street Tuxedo Photo by Candice Jones Photography

Gowns by Bridal Warehouse Tuxedos by Street Tuxedo Chairs, Place Settings, and Linens by Liberty Party Rental Food and Drink by Hard Rock Cafe Flowers by Branching Out Floral & Event Design Location: Reverb Room, Hard Rock Cafe Photo by Candice Jones Photography

Stationery by Details Nashville Gowns by Bridal Warehouse Tuxedos by Street Tuxedo Chairs, Place Settings, and Linens by Liberty Party Rental Flowers by Branching Out Floral & Event Design Cupcakes by Details Nashville Location: Reverb Room, Hard Rock Cafe Photo by Candice Jones Photography

Gown by Genyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridal Photo by Candice Jones Photography

Gown by Bridal Warehouse Flowers by Branching Out Floral & Event Design Outdoor Seating: Liberty Party Rental Location: Rooftop Ledge, Hard Rock Cafe Photo by Candice Jones Photography

Menswear by Street Tuxedo Chairs, Place Settings, and Linens by Liberty Party Rental Flowers by Branching Out Floral & Event Design Location: Reverb Room, Hard Rock Cafe Photo by Candice Jones Photography

Gown by Genyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridal Flowers by Branching Out Floral & Event Design Outdoor Seating: Liberty Party Rental Location: Rooftop Ledge, Hard Rock Cafe Photo by Candice Jones Photography

Gown by Bridal Warehouse Flowers by Branching Out Floral & Event Design Tuxedo by Street Tuxedo Location: Reverb Room, Hard Rock Cafe Photo by Candice Jones Photography

Behind the Scenes Scan for a peek behind the scenes of a Pink Bride fashion shoot!

Video by Details Nashville

- Pink Bride Planning Section Let the Pink Bride help you plan your wedding with our wedding lists and charts!

Honeymoon Checklist CARRY ON BAGGAGE:

CLOTHING:

Names and phone numbers of people to contact in case of an emergency.

¡

Casual shorts/pants/tops

¡

Cash, credit cards and traveler’s checks

Dressy shorts/pants/top/dresses

Small US currency for tipping

Jackets/blazers/ties

Passport/visa and/or driver’s license

Outdoor jackets/sweaters

Travelers checks’ serial numbers

Sweatshirts/sweatsuits

Complete travel itinerary with addresses,phones #’s and confirmation numbers

Belts

Airline tickets

Socks/hosiery

Photocopies of all the above items as well credit card contact phone numbers to keep in hotel safe

Shoes

Underwear/panties & bras

Thank you notes

Walking shoes/sandals/loafers

Prescription medication

Athletic shorts/tops & athletic shoes

Medical cards and physicians phone numbers

Swim suits, swim suit cover-up

Phone numbers to the local US embassy

Sun hat or baseball cap

Overnight toiletries and one casual outfit

Accessories/jewelry

Camera & chargers/batteries

Pajamas

Cell phone and charger

iPod/MP3 player

OTHER ITEMS:

Maps

Backpack and/or beach bag and purse

Antibacterial wipes

Honeymoon gift for your spouse

Currency converter chart or pocket calculator

Extra tote bag for bringing home new items

Foreign language dictionary

Chargers/batteries for electronic devices

Travel guide book

Shout wipes (instant stain remover towelettes)

Reading material

Plastic trash bags for dirty laundry

Eyeglasses/sunglasses/contact lenses

Small sewing kit and safety pins

Gum and/breath mints

Electrical converter/adapter

Motion sickness medicine

Travel alarm clock and iron

Umbrella

Video camera and charger

CHECKED BAGGAGE/COSMETIC BAG: ¡

TSA-Approved locks

Basic toiletries (shampoo, deodorant, razors, etc.)

DOCUMENTS TO LEAVE with a trusted contact:

Makeup bag

Perfume

Complete travel itinerary with addresses, phones #’s and confirmation numbers

Insect repellent and anti-itch cream

Band aids

Copy of credit cards numbers, travelers check numbers and passport/drivers license

Aspirin

Vitamins

Copy of your wills, life insurance-policy numbers, and pertinent financial info

Sunscreen lotions and aloe vera

Chap stick

Antacid

Antihistamine

Diarrhea medicine

Birth control

¡

Feminine hygiene products

NEED TO DO BEFORE LEAVING: ¡

Get passport and travel documents

Stop mail collection

Stop newspaper and other deliveries

Leave contact information with neighbors

Coordinate pet care

Water plants

Set light timers

Clean out refrigerator

Empty garbage containers

Lock all doors and windows

¡

Set security alarm

Bridal Party Duties Groom

Best Man

¡

Help select a date and reception hall.

¡

Help with tux shopping.

¡

Choose your best man, groomsmen and ushers.

¡

Organize bachelor party.

¡

Meet with officiant, master of ceremony.

¡

Attend rehearsal.

Help build a guest list as soon as possible.

¡

Sign marriage license with maid/matron of honor as witness.

¡

Research band and/or disc jockeys, and know the budget you have.

¡

Shop for wedding rings.

¡ If requested, get payments to the officiant, musicians, church; tip the DJ or help finalize other bills.

¡

Check requirements for marriage license.

¡

Get the transportation to the ceremony and reception handled.

¡

Select tuxes for groomsmen.

¡

Organize honeymoon and make all travel arrangements.

¡

Help create wedding website.

¡

Help with details and finalizing as requested by the bride.

¡

The groom’s parents typically cover and plan the rehearsal dinner. Decide how this will work and help by planning with parents.

¡

Buy the bride a memorable wedding gift.

¡ Make sure all business and legal affairs are handled. This includes name changes, medical plans, checking accounts, etc. ¡ Be sure to double check tuxedo orders and fittings. Make sure all groomsmen know when and where final fittings are. ¡

File for your marriage license with your bride-to-be.

¡

If moving get a change of address card to the Post Office.

¡ Pick out the groomsmen gifts. These men will be doing a lot of work for you on wedding day. Make sure you get them something they might enjoy.

¡

Keep groom on schedule.

¡

Know directions from the ceremony to the reception hall in advance.

¡

Drive groom to ceremony.

¡

Welcome guests and recognize the parents.

¡

Have a prepared toast.

¡ Dance with bride and bridesmaids. Be available for activities on the dance floor. ¡ Help the groom collect tuxes the next morning and offer to drop them all off.

Groomsmen Ushers ¡

Rent tuxedo and accessories as part of the wedding party.

¡

Assist best man with any parties or plans.

¡

Assist best man with any errands.

¡

Participate in all pre-wedding parties.

¡ Pick up your wedding rings and check the engraving to see if everything is spelled correctly.

¡

Arrive at dressing site according to time chosen by groom.

¡

Participate in photographs.

¡

Go over the final details with fiancée.

¡

Be a part of the processional.

¡

Pick up the tux, try it on and check yourself out.

¡

Sit at the head table.

¡

Make sure best man & ushers get their wedding attire.

¡

Dance with bridesmaids or other guests.

¡

Encourage single men to participate in garter toss.

¡

Help best man with bachelor party.

¡ Reconfirm all honeymoon reservations. If flying, make sure you have airline tickets & passports. ¡

Have your hair cut.

¡ Make sure your attendants are at the rehearsal, and know their duties. ¡ Make sure your ushers are aware of any special seating arrangements. ¡

Attend rehearsal dinner - relax and enjoy yourself!

¡ Bring your wedding license to the official at rehearsal, be sure it is filled out properly so it can be signed and returned to you after your wedding. ¡

Give the best man the bride’s wedding ring.

¡ Prepare the officiant fee or gift in an envelope, and give it to the best man so he can present it after the ceremony. ¡ Decide where you are going to dress and hang your suit, ready for the wedding day. ¡ On the wedding day, make sure your luggage is in the car or hotel where you will stay your first night.

¡ Arrive dressed at ceremony site according to bride’s schedule for the wedding for photographs and getting organized. ¡ Seat guests as they arrive at the ceremony. Check with bride for timing. ¡

Light any candles before the ceremony, if asked.

¡ See that programs/service booklets are prepared before the ceremony. ¡

Make sure all ceremonial items are ready.

¡

Help direct musicians and check that microphones are working.

¡ Distribute wedding programs and maps to the reception as guests arrive. ¡ Two ushers may roll runner down the aisle after both mothers are seated. ¡

At ceremony’s closing, escort guests out of the church.

¡

Stay in the church until all guests have exited.

¡ Pack all other items safely and securely into a travel bag and ensure that the wedding rings are safe.

¡ If pew ribbons are used, loosen them one row at a time after the ceremony.

¡

Direct guests to the reception site.

¡

Be prepared to participate in pictures.

Help with sending ‘thank you’ notes.

Maid/Matron of Honor ¡

Help select bridal gown and help address invitations.

¡

Plan bridal shower for bride.

¡ Optional: Plan a night out for the girls, based on what the bride would like. ¡ Arrange the bride’s veil and gown before the processional and recessional. ¡

May need to carefully situate train or veil during ceremony.

¡ Hold bride’s bouquet and groom’s ring, if no ring bearer, during the ceremony. ¡

Sign marriage license with best man as witness.

¡

Keep bride on wedding day itinerary.

¡

Dance with best man during the bridal party dance.

¡

Help bride change into her going away clothes.

¡

Mail wedding announcements after the wedding.

¡

Plan speech/toast.

Mother of Bride ¡

Main confidant and be there to support your daughter.

Help your daughter select her wedding gown and accessories.

¡ Assist in selecting the ceremony and reception facilities and any other wedding selections she needs help with. ¡

Arrange a get together for you to meet the groom’s parents.

¡ Select your gown and accessories and let the groom’s mother know what you are wearing. ¡

Plan the wedding budget and what you can contribute.

Plan the number of guests and your guest list.

Reserve hotel accommodations for the out-of-town guests

Spread the word about the bridal registries.

Attend the wedding shower and rehearsal dinner.

¡ Hostess at the wedding and reception - make sure all guest are comfortable. ¡

Participate in receiving line.

Assist the bride in greeting all her guests.

¡

Help your daughter when ever possible in planning this important day.

Tip chart No bridal budget is complete until nominal tipping charges are factored into the overall wedding costs. Although not required (nor expected), by every wedding vendor, small gratuity gifts for ‘a job well done’ by certain service or delivery personnel are a gracious way of showing your appreciation in making your wedding run more smoothly.

Important: Be sure to inquire if products or services you have already contracted for include a gratuity or service charge built into your price.

Officiant/Clergy

$75 - $100 ‘donations’ are appropriate. Mayors, judges or other public servants may not be able to accept gratuities.

Ceremony Site Staff

(soloist, organist, church staff, etc.) $20 to $30 per person, depending on amount of service

Delivery/Setup Personnel

(decorators, floral, cake, etc.) $10 each if just dropping items off, $20 each if dropping off and setting up to great extent.

Transportation Driver(s)

15% - 20% on top of contracted fee paid to driver.

Reception Wait Staff

$20 to $40 each, depending upon quality of service.

Bartenders

15% - 20% of entire bill for the bar.

Reception Site Manager

15% to 20% of entire bill for the reception.

Bridesmaids ¡

Purchase dress and accessories as part of the wedding party.

Assist maid/matron of honor in planning bridal shower.

Assist bride with errands and addressing invitations.

Participate in all pre-wedding parties.

Arrive at dressing site according to time chosen by bride.

Participate in photographs.

¡ Walk behind ushers in order of height during the processional, either in pairs or in single file. ¡

Sit at the head table.

Dance with ushers, groomsmen and other important guests.

¡ Encourage single women to participate in the bouquet-tossing ceremony.

Dj / Band:

15% to 20% of the bill should be given to the bandleader or D.J, more if they exceeded expectations.

Parking Attendants:

$1 - $2 per car if they are not taking tips from guests.

Wedding Day Survival Kit

¡

Make-up Kit

¡

Stapler

¡

Make-up Remover

¡

Lint Remover

¡

Make-up Brushes

¡

Static Guard

¡

Perfume

¡

Iron

¡

Toothbrush/toothpaste

¡

Band-Aid’s

¡

Dental Floss

¡

Antibiotic Ointment

¡

Lip Balm

¡

Tums

¡

Breath Mints/Gum

¡

Smelling Salts

¡

Toothpicks

¡

Aspirin/Tylenol

¡

Mirror

¡

Benadryl

¡

Tissues

¡

Something to eat (cheese/crackers/granola bar)

¡

Tweezers

¡

Bottled Water

¡

Cotton Balls/Q-tips

¡

Contact Lenses & Solution

Pack of matches, disposable lighter

¡

Eye Drops

¡

Pen and Pad of Paper

¡

Hand Lotion

¡

Bridal Gown

¡

Nail Polish - to match yours

¡

Weddings Shoes and comfy shoes

¡

Nail Polish - clear to stop hosiery runs

¡

2 - Garters (1 to keep and 1 to toss)

¡

Change of clothing for after reception

¡

Nail Polish Remover

¡

Groom’s Ring

¡

Nail Glue

¡

Extra socks for the

¡

Small scissors

¡

Groom/Groomsmen

¡

Nail File

¡

Cash/Credit Cards

¡

Hair Spray & Gel

¡

Driver’s License

¡

Brush

¡

Cell Phone (and charger)

¡

Comb

¡

Raincoat

¡

Hairdryer

¡

Umbrella

¡

Straightener

¡

Wedding Vendors - Phone

¡

Curling Iron

¡

Numbers

¡

Hair Pins

¡

Bridal Party - Phone Numbers

¡

Clear Deodorant

¡

Instant Shoe Shine Buff for the Bride

¡

Tampons/Panty Liners

¡

Tuxedo or suit

¡

Razor

¡

Cufflinks

¡

Shaving Cream

¡

Handkerchief

¡

Stockings/Pantyhose

¡

Shoes and socks

¡

Bath Robe

¡

Comb or/and brush

¡

Chalk (to cover small stains!)

¡

Hair gel/other products

¡

Stain Remover Spray

¡

Breath mints

¡

Shout Wipes(for stains)

¡

Toothpaste/brush

¡

Sunscreen

¡

Razor, shaving cream

¡

Insect Repellent

¡

Deodorant

¡

Glue

¡

Aftershave

¡

Sewing Needle

¡

Money, credit card

¡

Thread (black, white & color to match bridesmaid dresses)

¡

Drivers license

¡

Safety Pins

¡

Any medications

¡

Masking Tape

¡

Present for the bride/for the Groom

WEDDING DAY TIMETABLE

Rehearsal

Ceremony

____________ Rehearsal

____________ Music Begins

____________ Rehearsal Dinner

____________ Ceremony Begins

Wedding Day

Arrival at Reception Location

____________ Hairdresser

____________ Caterer

____________ Manicurist

____________ Rental Items

____________ Facial/Make-up

____________ Baker ____________ Musicians

Time of Arrival at Bride’s Home

____________ Florist

____________ Attendants

____________ Photographer

____________ Videographer: Guests

____________ Videographer

____________ Bride & Groom

____________ Limousines ____________ Florist

Timing of

____________ Departing Time

____________ Cocktails ____________ Hors d’oeurvres

Arrival at Church

____________ Blessing

____________ Ushers

____________ Toast

____________ Groomsmen

____________ Dinner

____________ Best Man

____________ Dessert

____________ Groom

____________ Start of Music

____________ Groom’s Parents

____________ First Dance

____________ Bride’s Mother

____________ Parent Dances

____________ Bridesmaids

____________ Special Dances

____________ Maid of Honor

____________ Cutting of Cake

____________ Bride’s Father

____________ Bouquet Toss

____________ Bride

____________ Garter Toss

____________ Guest Book Attendant

____________ Departure of Bride & Groom

____________ Florist

____________ Function Ending

____________ Rental Items

____________ Overtime Available Until

____________ Photographer ____________ Videographer ____________ Musicians ____________ Officiant: Other

Wedding Planning timeline 12 months before the wedding ¡

Choose wedding date

Confirm date is available with ceremony site

3-6 months prior to the wedding ¡

Take a completed wedding invitation to post office to be weighed for proper postage.

Work on Budget with both families

¡

Finalize honeymoon plans & arrange time off from work.

Set budget and number of guests

Make final decision & buy wedding rings.

Discuss who will pay for what

¡

Shop for wedding guests favors.

Choose type of wedding

¡

Finalize selected tuxedo styles for groom, groomsmen, father & ring bearer.

Confirm officiant

Discuss music selections for both ceremony & reception

Buy wedding rings

Instruct mothers to select their formalwear gowns.

Consider wedding planner

Reserve a block of rooms for out-of-town guests.

Start checking reception sites

Apply for passport (Required for any travel outside of the U.S.)

Start guest list

After you have your reception location chosen begin your search for your photographer, florist, DJ, videographer, etc.

1-3 months prior to the wedding

Choose your wedding gown and get it ordered

What about your bridal party? What will they wear?

If you will have a band start looking now

Ceremony music

9-12 months before the wedding

Mail invitations to guests.

Set appointment with hair stylist to practice different styles with veil.

Discuss ceremony plans, include readings & vows, with officiant & complete premarital consultations.

Book rehearsal at ceremony site & invite photographer & videographer to review setup locations.

Shop for rehearsal dinner site at a local restaurant or have catered event at home.

Inquire about marriage license requirements with county courthouse.

¡

Review details & arrangements with all companies involved, discuss last minute emergency options.

Order correct length aisle runner from florist or equipment rental company.

¡

Order wedding accessories, guest book, pen, unity candle, ring bearer’s pillow, programs, garter, etc.

¡

Have wedding gown & bridesmaid dresses pressed and/or steamed.

Select groom’s & bridal party gifts.

¡

Order wedding favors.

Order wedding gown and bridesmaid dresses

Hire ceremony musicians & reception entertainment companies.

¡

Interview, taste test & compare licensed wedding cake companies.

Decide on additional decorating ideas, ice sculptures, special lighting, linens, etc.

¡

Begin process of selecting wedding rings.

¡

Begin process of choosing invitations and order when ready

¡

Investigate wedding gift registries at department stores, boutiques, specialty stores, travel agents, etc.

Interview & decide on a rehearsal site.

¡

Send ‘save the date’ cards to guest list.

¡

Create a wedding-specific e-mail address for wedding related correspondence.

2 weeks prior to the wedding

¡

Create a wedding website for sharing details and information with your guests.

Contact guests that failed to respond to invitations.

Choose wedding cake company

Give final “head count” to reception facility or caterer (Remember to include your wedding vendors).

Continue working on guest list.

¡

Reconfirm rehearsal time & dates & be sure to share with bridal party.

¡

Ask a family member or friend to be the guest book attendant at ceremony site.

Discuss with photographer & videographer a list of special people or events to be captured.

Make an appointment at a spa for a massage, facial, manicure & pedicure.

¡

Begin packing for honeymoon (If leaving the country, you need a passport or original birth certificate.)

¡

Reconfirm with travel agent about honeymoon plans.

If applicable, begin name & address change on all official documents.

Make arrangements to pick up or have your gown delivered.

¡

Confirm tuxedo rental order & set fitting appointment for the men.

Catch up on writing thank you cards for wedding gifts received thus far.

¡

Choose final makeup & hair style for wedding day & set appointment with salon for your wedding day.

¡

Have bachelor & bachelorette parties prior to rehearsal & definitely not the night before the wedding.

6-9 months prior to the wedding ¡

Choose wedding day transportation for bridal party & out-of-town guests.

Finalize wedding gift registries.

¡

Choose accessories to wedding gown including veil, shoes, jewelry, lingerie, etc.

¡

Begin process of formalwear attire for groom, groomsmen & fathers.

Investigate honeymoon options with travel agent.

One week prior to the wedding

After the wedding

¡

Relax... you’re almost there!

¡

Open gifts while keeping a gift record.

¡

Make sure you have your marriage license.

¡

Have gown cleaned & preserved.

Write check(s) for officiant’s fee, ceremony musicians or soloists.

¡

Write thank you notes.

¡

Confirm balance due with each company involved & transfer funds into account to cover final payments.

¡

Check with photographer & videographer.

Have bridal bouquet & other wedding mementos preserved.

¡

Finish packing for honeymoon.

¡

Order travelers checks from travel agent or bank.

Freeze top layer of wedding cake to be eaten at your first anniversary celebration.

Finalize seating plan & place cards for reception.

¡

Make sure all vendor bills have been paid in full.

Review wedding day details with wedding coordinator/consultant.

¡

Meet with entertainer(s) & review proper pronunciation of names & finalize reception sequence.

Apply for a name change, beginning with Social Security card and driver’s license, and then bank accounts, credit cards, employee records, etc.

¡

Prepare wedding day itinerary with times & locations for the wedding party, family members, & wedding vendors.

¡

Confirm transportation & review wedding day schedule with times & location with driver.

¡

Hold rehearsal of wedding ceremony & attend rehearsal dinner.

Have bridal party gifts ready to be given away at rehearsal dinner.

¡

Send wedding announcement & photograph to local newspapers.

Go home early after the rehearsal dinner & get a good night sleep... you’re going to need it!

Additional things ¡

_______________________

Your Wedding Day ¡

Sleep in & relax... all your months of planning are about to pay off.

_______________________

Enjoy a good breakfast & take the time to reflect upon your new adven ture that is about to begin.

_______________________

¡

Have someone take a completed invitation to the post office & have it stamped with your wedding date as a keepsake.

¡

Go to the salon for your makeover & hair styling at least three to four hours before the ceremony.

_______________________

¡

Be sure everyone is dressed about two hours before the ceremony & ready for photographs to be taken.

_______________________

¡

Have groomsmen at church at least one hour prior to the ceremony to start seating guests as they arrive.

_______________________

¡

Begin your music thirty minutes before the ceremony.

_______________________

¡

Send a love note to your fiance before the wedding begins.

¡

The groom’s parents are second to the last people to be seated before the ceremony.

_______________________

¡

The bride’s mother is the last to be seated, just a few moments before the ceremony begins.

_______________________

¡

Have two ushers or groomsman roll out the aisle runner.

¡

Take your position with whomever is giving you away.

_______________________

“Here comes the bride.....”

Don’t forget ¡

SOMETHING OLD: _______________________________________________

¡

SOMETHING NEW: ______________________________________________

¡

SOMETHING BORROWED: ________________________________________

¡

SOMETHING BLUE: ______________________________________________

must-have photos Wedding Photography Shots BEFORE THE CEREMONY

Posed Wedding Photography BEFORE THE RECEPTION

___ Wedding dress lying over a chair

___ Bride alone (full length)

___ Zipping up or buttoning the wedding dress

___ Bride with Maid of Honor

___ Mother of the bride fastening the bride’s necklace

___ Bride with bridesmaids

___ The bride’s garter

___ Groom with bridesmaids

___ The bride’s veil

___ Bride with parents

___ A close up of the bride’s shoes peeking out from under the dress

___ Bride & Groom together

___ Bride looking into a mirror

___ Bride & Groom with parents

___ Bride looking out window

___ Bride & Groom with families

___ Bride and bridesmaids putting on makeup

___ Bride & Groom with entire wedding party

___ Bride pinning corsage/boutonniere on mother/father

___ Bride & Groom with flower girl and ringbearer

___ Bride hugging parents

___ Groom with parents

___ Bride touching up

___ Groom with best man

___ Bride and parents leaving for ceremony

___ Groom with groomsmen

___ Groom tying tie

___ Bride with groomsmen

___ Groom looking into mirror ___ Bride looking out window

DURING THE RECEPTION

___ Groom pinning corsage/boutonniere on mother/father

___ Outside of reception site

___ Groom hugging parents

___ Bride & Groom arriving

___ Bride and parents leaving for ceremony

___ Bride & Groom greeting guests

Wedding Photography Shots AT THE CEREMONY

___ Table centerpieces ___ Table setting

___ Outside of ceremony site

___ Bride & Groom’s table (head table)

___ Guests walking into ceremony site

___ Musicians or DJ

___ Bride and father entering ceremony site

___ Guest book

___ Parents being seated

___ Place card table

___ Grandparents being seated

___ Closeup of bride and groom’s place card

___ Maid of honor walking down the aisle

___ Wedding cake

___ Bridesmaids walking down the aisle

___ Groom’s cake

___ Flower girl and ring bearer walking down aisle

___ Gift table

___ Groom waiting for bride

___ Decorations (specify which _________________________)

___ Ceremony musicians

___ A shot of bride & groom with guests at each table

___ Officiant

___ Bride with college alums

___ Altar or canopy during ceremony

___ Groom with college alums

___ Close up of bride, just before she makes her entrance

___ The buffet or, if having table service, a dinner serving

___ Bride and father walking down aisle

___ Bride & Groom’s first dance

___ Groom seeing bride for first time

___ Bride & Father dancing

___ The back of bride and father walking down the aisle

___ Groom & Mother dancing

___ Bride’s father and Bride hugging at end of aisle

___ Guests dancing

___ Shot of the audience from the bride and groom’s point of view

___ Bride & Groom cutting the cake

___ The unity ceremony

___ Bride & Groom feeding each other cake

___ Close up of bride and groom saying the vows

___ Toasts (specify who is giving them: ____________________)

___ Wide shot of bride and groom saying the vows

___ Bride & Groom drinking champagne

___ Exchanging the rings

___ Signing the marriage license

___ Close up of hands

___ Bride throwing bouquet

___ The kiss

___ Groom retrieving garter

___ Bride & Groom walking up the aisle

___ Groom tossing garter

___ Receiving line

___ Garter/Bouquet dance

___ Bride & Groom outside on steps

___ The getaway car

___ Guests throwing confetti/rose petals/birdseed

___ Bride & Groom leaving party

___ Bride & Groom hugging guests, laughing, getting congratulations

___ Bride & Groom driving away

___ Bride & Groom getting in car ___ Bride & Groom in back seat

Guests the photographer shouldn’t miss: (provide your photographer with a seating chart so that they can easily identify them)