17 minute read
96 Abbey Bender & Brandon Guice Abbey Bender & Brandon Guice
How to Write a GRACIOUS THANK YOU NOTE
By Katherine Whitehead
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In the age of technology, many of us underestimate the power of a handwritten letter. Though it may be easier to send a text or even say it in person, pulling out that old pen and stationery is one of the most thoughtful ways to show someone you care. It may seem a little daunting to perfect that penmanship again, but trust us, when you follow these tips, your wedding guests will be falling head over heels with your graciousness!
DO’S
Use Stationery: Now is not the time to use the leftover notebook paper from your college days. You don’t have to splurge on expensive stationery from a paper store, but you should definitely try to choose embossed cards with matching envelopes.
Handwrite: A handwritten thank you is the best way to go when it comes to the look of your notes. Taking the time to carefully write a letter goes much further than a printed document ever could because it shows that it is more sincere and thoughtful.
Personalize: When writing the notes be sure to personalize it for each receiver. The last thing you want to do is send a “fill in the blank” message to everyone and have it come back to you later. Think of the way you would talk to the family member or friend in person, and make it feel conversational to them, letting your own personality shine through. Additionally, instead of saying “thank you for x gift”, let them know how you plan on using the item. For example, if a friend gives you a cooking set, say something like, “My husband and I loved the cookware. We can’t wait to use it for the family dinner next week!”
Send it: A general rule of thumb is to try to mail your thank you notes within three months. However, remember that getting them done is the most important thing, so if you’re already past the three month mark, don’t worry! It’s always better to send them than not. It’s best to adhere to the “One Year Rule”. This means that if the event happened within the year, it’s still okay to send a letter of thanks.
DON’TS
Ramble: Yes, you may be excited to officially be married and you may have had an amazing honeymoon that you want to tell the world about, but don’t go on and on about it in the note. It’s usually best to keep thank you notes brief. If you want to discuss with that person further, save it for a phone call or in person.
Refer to Money: If someone gifted money, it’s important to never acknowledge the specific amount in the note. Although you may be raving about their generosity, they don’t want to be called out for the dollars they spent for you. Thank you notes relating to monetary gifts are best kept general and straight to the point. It is okay, however, to acknowledge the gift and mention that you plan on putting it to good use - without going into specifics. Assume: It can be easy to think that an in-person thank you is enough. Even if you did say thank you to people at your reception, sending a thank you note is the least you can do for people who came out to your wedding and were kind enough to provide a gift. It is important to remember as well that even if someone came and did not give anything they should still receive a note for their time spent attending your wedding.
Become Overwhelmed: We get it – writing thank you notes can be a lengthy process, especially if you have a large amount of guests on your big day. If you feel like it’s becoming too much, step back, relax and breathe. Ask your spouse to join in so it can be something you can do together as a couple, because let’s not forget - the gift was for both of you! the bride doesn’t have to be the only one that sends thank you’s!
Venues
612NORTH EVENT SPACE + CATERING 612 N. 2nd Street St. Louis, MO 314.899.0612 www.612north.com Zach Dalin Photography
Location Options Indoor Capacity 250+ Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Paid
ANDRE’S BANQUETS & CATERING 4254 Telegraph Rd. St. Louis, MO 314.894.2622 www.andresbanquet.com
COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS Location Options Indoor & Outdoor Capacity 250+ Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Free
BELLA VISTA WINERY 6633 E. Main St. Maryville, IL 618.365.6280 www.bellavistail.com
Location Options Indoor and Outdoor Capacity 300 Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Onsite
CEDAR CREEK CONFERENCE CENTER 1401 Olive Road New Haven, MO 573.237.3672 www.cedarcreekcenter.com
Brianna Rose Photography & Film
Location Options Indoor and Outdoor Capacity 250+ Outside Catering Permitted Yes Parking Options Free
GATEWAY ARCH PARK FOUNDATION 1 S. Memorial Drive. St. Louis, MO 314.881.3531 www.archpark.org/privateevents
Location Options Indoor Only Capacity 250+ Outside Catering Permitted YES Parking Options Varies
GATEWAY CONVENTION CENTER 1 Gateway Drive Collinsville, IL 618.345.8998 www.gatewaycenter.com
Location Options Indoor & Outdoor Capacity 2000 Outside Catering Permitted Yes Parking Options Free 612North overlooks the Gateway Arch and has a 360 degree of downtown St. Louis. Located in the Cutlery Building on the historic Laclede’s Landing, 612North encompasses three spaces each unique in their own styles. Our team is committed to helping you create the perfect backdrop for your celebration.
We have multiple locations that can hold anywhere from 30 up to 350 people. These venues off er diff erent pricing to meet any budgets needs. We also have 9 off premise catering vans so we can also cater an event to a location of your choice. - 4254 Telegraph Rd., St. Louis - Andre’s at Fox Run #1 Putt Ln., Eureka, MO - Andre’s Sunset Hills - 13366 W. Watson Rd., Sunset Hills, MO - Andre’s West - 211 South Old Highway 142, Fenton MO - Andre’s at Oak Valley, - 230 Abbey Lane Pevely, MO
Whether you’re looking for an elegant location for a wedding ceremony and reception or a relaxing night out with music and wine, Bella Vista Winery will provide just that! Located in rural Maryville, IL, our winery will captivate you and your guests with views of the sprawling green landscape and shimmering lake. Combined with our award-winning wines and unique tasting menu, your next event will shine.
-Several packages to choose from, including custom package options -Western Town with Saloon -Newlywed suite and more! -On-site lodging for up to 125 of your overnight guests -Amenities include the Town Hall restaurant, a saltwater pool. a 5-acre lake for fi shing, a 9-hole par 3 golf course, and scenic walking trails -Wedding Day Coordination Services
Located in the heart of downtown St. Louis, the Museum at the Gateway Arch is connected to the city in new and breathtaking ways. With a sleek new entrance and an expanded visitor center, museum, and tram lobby, the Gateway Arch is the perfect place to host your next event. Our dynamic new spaces are ideal for social gatherings, weddings, and corporate events that will make a monumental impression.
Gateway Convention Center is a multipurpose event center located in the heart of Collinsville, IL. We off er beautiful space, delicious catering, or the option to bring in outside catering, experienced event management staff , custom layout options, complimentary centerpieces, and all equipment needed to make your wedding day perfect!
GRAND OPERA HOUSE BANQUET CENTER 311 North Main Street St. Charles, MO 314.406.3783 www.OHbanquets.com
Location Options Indoor Capacity 175 Outside Catering Permitted Yes Parking Options Free
HERMANN HILL WEDDINGS 165 East HWY 100 Hermann, Missouri 314.800.3295 www.hermannmoweddings.com
Rhonda Favor Photography Location Options IIndoor & Outdoor Capacity 250 + Outside Catering Permitted NO Parking Options Free A modern venue in a beautifully vintage location is what we off er. Hardwood fl oors, pressed tin ceilings, warm colors, all-inclusive packages and an inviting staff are what you can expect at the Grand Opera House Banquet Center.
Sitting high atop a bluff on the Missouri River and surrounded by the rolling hills and lush woodland, sits our stunning wedding venue in Hermann, Missouri. Known for our dramatic sunsets and exceptional hospitality, you will love how our in-house chef, wedding coordinators and on-site lodging shorten your to-do list and make wedding planning a breeze.
HIDDEN LAKE WINERY 10580 Wellen Road. Aviston, Illinois 618.228.9111 www.hiddenlakewinery.com
Lauren T Photography Location Options Indoor & Outdoor Capacity 250 + Outside Catering Permitted NO Parking Options Free -Hidden Lake Winery, located in rural Aviston, IL, is situated in Silent Forest, a wooded parcel of land abounding in local lore. -We off er fi ve beautiful and unique venues on our 92 acres. -This space provides the opportunity to tailor your wedding and make it your own.
HISTORICAL BARN WEDDING VENUE AT HOLIDAY INN ST. LOUIS WEST AT SIX FLAGS 4901 Allenton Road Eureka, MO 636.938.3515 ext. 7756 www.hisixfl ags.com
HOTEL SAINT LOUIS - MARRIOTT AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION 705 Olive Street St. Louis, MO 314.241.4300 www.HotelSaintLouis.com
MOUNT HOPE BARN WEDDINGS 5565 Hamburg Michael Rd Michael, Illinois 618.535.9803 www.barnweddingsillinois.com
Michelle Marie Photographie Location Options Indoor & Outdoor Capacity 300 Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Free
Rochelle Maples Photography Location Options Indoor Capacity Up to 250 Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Varies
Lauren T Photography Location Options IIndoor & Outdoor Capacity 250 + Outside Catering Permitted YES Parking Options Free For a party your guests won’t forget, choose The Holiday Inn at Six Flags. The Inn’s 200 year-old barn’s architecture boasts early American design with vaulted ceilings, exposed oak beams, handcrafted limestone walls, detailed woodwork, and decorative brickwork. We off er complete wedding packages, and do not charge a venue feee.
Hotel Saint Louis off ers so much more than classic elegance. From the contemporary touches of our Historic property and rooftop pool and restaurant to private rooms for bridal showers and brunches we are here to serve you with attention to detail and experienced staff to help you create an event that is unrepeatable. With our fl exible meeting space, we are able to accommodate your wedding reception with our 4,500 square foot luxurious ballroom, which seats up to 250. Our chic rooftop off ers fabulous views for picture taking.
-Countryside Scenery -Secluded, Privately Owned -No other place like it -Several lodging options are available -No fees for caters, photographers. etc.
ORLANDO BANQUETS AND CATERING 2050 Dorsett Village Maryland Heights, MO 314.453.9000 www.orlandogardens.com
Location Options Indoor Capacity 250+ Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Varies
PROMENADE BY WESTIN 811 Spruce Street St. Louis, MO 314.552.5712 www.westinstlouis.com
Location Options Indoor Capacity 250 Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Free
RIVERBEND CHAPEL WEDDINGS & EVENTS 827 Ming Drive Washington, MO 636.390.8600 www.riverbendchapelinc.com
Location Options Indoor & Outdoor Capacity 300 Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Onsite - Free
SAINT LOUIS ZOO One Government Dr. St. Louis, MO 314.646.4855 www.STLZoo.org
Location Options Indoor & Outdoor Capacity As needed Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Onsite
SUNSET BLUFFS 230 Sunset Bluff s Drive Washington, MO 314.660.2210 www.sunsetbluff s.com
TAPAWINGO NATIONAL GOLF CLUB 13001 Gary Player Drive. Saint Louis, MO 63127 636.349.3100 www.tapawingogolf.com
Danielle Ambry Photography
Location Options Indoor and Outdoor Capacity 300 Outside Catering Permitted Yes Parking Options Free
MICHELLE MARIE PHOTOGRAPHIE
Location Options Indoor Reception Space with Outdoor Ceremony Option Capacity 200 Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Free -Excellent customerservice -Convenient locations all across St. Louis -Beautiful and clean facilities -Inclusive Packages (some restrictions apply)
-Exposed brick -Warm wood tones -Walls of windows -Wedding specialist
Riverbend Chapel is perfect for an outdoor garden ceremony, on top of the bluff overlooking the Missouri River, or inside our fully windowed chapel, featuring cathedral ceilings. The formal banquet room is adorned with chandeliers, a stone arched bar, fi replace, a dance fl oor, and large windows with sweeping views of the river valley. This all-inclusive venue includes a wedding coordinator, decorations, a bridal suite, wait staff , plated dinner, and offi ciants if needed. Riverbend Chapel is a nonprofi t organization that goes above and beyond to serve our brides and their families to keep costs and stress as low as possible.
The Saint Louis Zoo provides an unforgettable setting for your wedding. It is a beautiful and unique place to start your story together, complete with opportunities to see animals or take a ride on the carousel or train! The Zoo’s venues quickly transform to fi t your desired theme, whether you want drama or something sweet and simple. However you envision your special day, the Zoo’s superior services, meticulous planning and attention to detail will make your event a memorable one.
Sunset Bluff s is a stunning 20-acre estate, including a luxurious 5,500 sq ft home, an elegant albeit modern 4,500 sq ft reception hall with the ability to accommodate up to 300 guests, and scenic 110-ft tall bluff s overlooking an 8-acre quarry lake. Say “I Do” on our white sand beach or choose from a variety of other settings for an infi nitely oneof-a-kind and forever memorable special day.
Tapawingo means “A Place of Joy” , We combine great service and excellent food with the beauty of having panoramic views of our golf course from our banquet space.
THE AQUILA BARN 180 John Creech Road Moscow Mills, MO 636.445.2087 www.theaquilabarn.com
Location Options Indoor & Outdoor Capacity 250+ Outside Catering Permitted Yes Parking Options Free
THE CHRISTY BANQUET CENTERS & CATERING 5856 Christy Blvd. Saint Louis, MO 314-352-4800 and www.thechristy.com
Location Options Indoor Only Capacity 200 Outside Catering Permitted NO Parking Options Free
THE RACK HOUSE KITCHEN WINE WHISKEY® 5065 Highway N Cottleville, MO 636.244.0574 www.therackhousekww.com
TOMPKINS BY THE RACK HOUSE 500 South Main Street St. Charles, MO 636.493.6332 www.TompkinsRH.com
Location Options Indoor & Outdoor Capacity Up to 50 Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Free
Location Options Indoor Capacity up to 100 Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Free
WATER’S EDGE BANQUET CENTERS 200 Salt Lick Road St. Peters, MO 636.279.8271 www.stpetersmo.net/watersedge
Location Options Indoor & Outdoor Capacity 350 Outside Catering Permitted Yes Parking Options Free
WICKED PONY RANCH 10058 Pillen Road Dittmer, MO 636.223.4864 www.wickedponyranch.com
Location Options Indoor & Outdoor Capacity 200 Outside Catering Permitted No Parking Options Onsite -Climate controlled to accommodate all weddings throughout the year. -Large outdoor patio with strung lights, fi replace, and complete surround sound to allow the party to be outside as well as inside. -Bridal suite equipped with salons chairs, LED mirrors, and private bathroom. -32 passenger shuttle to rent for the day to accommodate all your guests shuttle services to and from the venue and local hotels. The venue sits on over 400 acres that off er lakes, old barns, sunflower fi eld and more making it a perfect place to have pictures taken the day of!
-St. Louis location is completely private -All Inclusive packages -Aff ordable elegance -Custom menu options -Second location at 9000 Veterans Memorial Parkway in O’Fallon, MO (636-240-7772) -O’Fallon location has a wedding chapel
-Large bar selection with over 150 whiskeys -Premium Wines -Cigar lounge -Private Patio
- Historic Building/Location - Scratch Kitchen - Local Produce - Historic Main Street Saint Charles
-Located on a scenic 18-hole golf course with a beautiful lake view -Contemporary features including a relaxing cocktail hour space with a welcoming multisided fi replace -Outdoor veranda ceremony location, beautiful indoor ceremony space with an abundance of natural light for the perfect photos -Spacious deck overlooking the lake, complimentary dressing room suite with banquet package and your choice of outside catering -Located just off of Interstate 70 close to all your favorite accommodations.”
Brides select the Wicked Pony Ranch because they don’t just get a venue, they will literally receive access to the ENTIRE RANCH! From the moment you and your wedding party step into our property, you will have full access to all the buildings, indoor and outdoor bars, the bride’s parlor, groom’s room, beautiful waterfalls, and natural scenic backdrops to create the most memorable occasion for your wedding day.
Elena Hayes & David Bui
PHOTOGRAPHER · ZACH DALIN PHOTOGRAPHY
By Katherine Whitehead
honeymoon
Let’s all admit it - we’ve all day dreamed of how amazing our honeymoon will be someday. The sun, the sand, that crystal blue water and quality time with our hubbies is enough to get every bride excited. From long sunny days with margaritas, polar bear kisses in the snow, or couples massages in the spa, your post-wedding vacay is meant for rest, relaxation and a chance to check out from the real world. Because planning for your big day is an adventure on its own, many brides end up saving the honeymoon prep for last.
When deciding what to bring on your honeymoon, it’s easy to become over prepared. We’re often tempted to bring way more than what is necessary and often end up with heavy suitcases full of things we don’t need. Whether you’re soaking up the sun’s rays on a tropical island in paradise or hitting the cold slopes of Aspen, we’ve compiled a list of the ultimate honeymoon must-haves for every destination.
HONEYMOON BASICS
· Carry-on · Passport, IDs · Reading material for the flights and during downtime · Laptop, camera, chargers · Toiletries · Pajamas · Lingerie to surprise him on the first night · The perfume that you wore on your wedding day (This will bring back memories for him!) · A special outfit to wear to dinner · Workout Gear · Sunglasses · Guide Book · Language Dictionary · Comfortable clothes to fly home in
WARM WEATHER HONEYMOON
· Sunhat · Bathing suits for the beach and pool · Sunscreen · Small cooler for keeping a few bottles of water, beer, champagne, etc., for when you head out to the beach if your accommodations don’t provide something for you to use. · Speaker to take to the beach · Comfortable shoes (sandals or Chaco’s for walking)
COLD WEATHER HONEYMOON
· Winter hat · Heavy coat (Patagonia makes great ones) · Thick sweaters · Jeans · Socks - Our favorite are J. Crew’s Camp Socks · Boots for hiking - L.L. Bean Boots are a classic
