The Southern Social Issue 1 by The Southern Social

The

SOUTHERN

SOCIAL

dfw

PA IGE + A LEX

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more from their elegant wedding on p. 26

2018

south

w e d d i n g s

—

AT WO R K

T R AV E L TA L K

VENDOR GUIDE

W I T H F R ESH

HON EYMO ON TO ARU BA

SHOP OU R W E DDI NG PROS

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# T H E S O U T H E R N S O C I A L T X

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S OU T H E R N W E D D I N G P R O F E S SIO NA L S I S D E D IC AT E D T O B R I N G I N G T H E W E D D I N G I N DU ST RY S OU T H O F D F W. W E A R E T H E C OU P L E’ S O N E - ST O P SHO P. A P L AC E T O E X P L O R E T H E L AT E ST T R E N D S , V I EW R E A L W E D D I N G S I N OU R A R E A , A N D G E T I N T OU C H W I T H A L L O F OU R AMAZING WEDDING VENDORS. W E A R E H E R E T O SHOWC A SE OU R W E D D I N G P R O F E S SIO NA L S’ SE RV IC E S A N D TA L E N T S . OU R G OA L I S SO CIAL

I D E A L V E N D O R T E A M A N D H E L P I N G SU P P O RT A N D

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R E P R E SE N T S T H E B E ST I N OU R A R E A .

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T O F E AT U R E A C O L L E C T IO N O F V E N D O R S W HO SE WO R K

W E L O O K F O RWA R D T O C O N N E C T I N G YOU W I T H YOU R G R OW OU R L O C A L W E D D I N G BU SI N E S SE S .

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@TA RA RSEV EN

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PAT T E R N S

Marriage Tips and Advice

An old Brazilian saying states, “ If advice were good, no one would give it out for free”. Marriage tips are a dime a dozen. After many hours of pre-marital counselling, the best take-away : set good boundaries and patterns during the first year. The first year sets up the stage for a lifetime. So, solely commit to the bare necessities. Work, school ( finish as soon as possible), family gatherings, church to name a few. Cut back on extra activities and focus on establishing desired patterns. Go easy on “girl’s” or “guy’s” nights, dinner with friends and extra commitments at work or on the weekends. Side note : this will also save money. We see this concept in ancient history. Men were not to go to war during their first year of marriage, nor were any extra duties added to his responsibilities. Rather, he was to stay home and be with his new bride. My husband and I heeded this wise counsel. A decade later, we can still gauge when our life is off balance. Perhaps somewhat like a proverbial compass, we can sense when things are on their way to spinning out of control, long before we are totally distraught. We can look at our “compass” and head in the right direction. Had we not practiced this early on, we would not have even detected when we were “off”. It isn’t even something you can put your finger on, just “off”, out of sync.

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The fact of the matter is that this will happen; it happens to everyone. The key is found in the ability to recognize It. The wisdom lies in re-prioritizing to regain proper bearings. Like a compass. If balance is an unknown phenomenon, then imbalance may seem normal. Life is a balancing act . As careers change, income fluctuates, or kids arrive and so on, it is important to maintain and know when things are out of equilibrium.

- Stefanie Mcneely

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@REBEC CAC HE N S E Y _ P H OTOAN DFIL M

C ONT E NT S

NEWLY ENGAGED

meet four couples that will soon tie the knot

an elegant and formal affair

a multi-functional space consisting of a coffee shop and fresh cut florals

ON THE COVER

AT WORK WITH FRESH

A FLORAL EXPERIENCE trend-setting florals that will make your jaw drop

9 beautiful couples that said “I do” #southofdfw

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WITH THIS RING

CELEBRATE LOVE

SOWP’S FIRST STYLED SHOOT

where it all began, lovestruck and glam

SHOP OUR PROS

a guide to the best wedding pros around

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what does your ring say about you

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I N

THI S

I S SU E

Get Inspired

SPRING VIBES

GO SOUTHWEST

SUMMER GARDEN

FEATURES

A GENTLEMAN’S SHOOT

20 LET’S GET SOCIAL

A STYLED SHOOT WORKSHOP

31 PLANNING 101

A HIDDEN GEM

36 CUSTOM STATIONERY

40 HOW TO USE RUGS IN YOUR WEDDING

LOVESTRUCK AND GLAM

65 HOW TO FIND YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

102

90 A BRIDAL SESSION CONFESSION

MODERN RUSTIC

@BEATB OXP O RTRAITS

@ JASONAN DL AU RI E

@ T H E S I L H O U E T T E STU D I O

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SPRING VIBES

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fresh and vibrant

FEATURED WEDDING PROS PLANNING ELLA PHOTO & CAITE ANN PHOTOGRAPHY PLANNER THE WHITE FIORE PHOTOGRAPHY SABEL MOMENTS VENUE WILLOW CREEK WEDDING VENUE FLORALS VELLA NEST FLORAL & HALEY NICOLE FLORAL DRESS ELIZABETH LEE BRIDAL CAKE NOTHING BUNDT CAKE HAIR DANICA REY HAIR MAKEUP SOUTHERN VEILS CALLIGRAPHY THE SIMPLE FLOURISH RENTALS BELLA ACENTO & WAREHOUSE ROSE RENTALS MODELS CRISTIANE, BRENT & SAMMARA

The inspiration was to showcase not only a more vibrant color palette for spring, but to also showcase diversity and fresh faces. - Catie Ann Photography

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uncommon beauty

“WE STRONGLY BELIEVE THAT ALL BRIDES SHOULD WEAR CAPES.”

“This cape is a beautiful addition to the Abby gown.”

-ELIZABETH LEE BRIDAL

I NSPI R ATION

GO SOUTHWEST a boho bride

COLLABORATOR SOUTHERN WEDDING PROFESSIONALS PHOTOGRAPHER BEATBOX PORTRAITS VENUE MILAGRO FARMS GOWN ELIZABETH LEE BRIDAL CAKE DOOLEES BAKING CO RENTALS WRENS RELICS FLORALS FRESH FLOWERS & GATHERINGS STATIONERY BROWN FOX CREATIVE HAIR & MAKEUP PRETTY YOU HAIR & MAKEUP VIDEOGRAPHY THREE23 MEDIA

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E NG AG E ME NT

KRISTAN & CHRIS BA R N O N T H E B R A Z O S | B LUM , T X I M AG E S B Y | RU S T IC M E M O R I E S B Y L O N DA “C h r is and I me t i n Nove mb e r of 2 0 1 3 t h rou g h a mutu a l f r i e nd. My f r i e nd and I ha d gone to t he Parks Ma l l in Arl i ngton on ou r lu nch bre a k, w he re she ran into C h r is i n t he fo o d c ou r t . He was e at i ng C h i ck F i l A , s o I was i n it i a l ly d raw n to h i m! I hone st ly d id n’t t h i n k mu ch of us me e t i ng t hat d ay, but we a l l sp ent t he ne x t fe w we eke nds to ge t he r goi ng to fo ot b a l l game s and c onc e r t s . C h r is and I h it it of f a l most imme d i ately. It was tot a l ly natu ra l b e t we e n us! Fast for ward fou r and a ha l f ye ars l ate r and he

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C h r is tol d me t hat we we re goi ng to t a ke pi c tu re s

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p opp e d t he qu est ion! It was t he e as i e st ye s e ve r!

t he ent ire e vening pl an ne d. I c ou l d n’t have b e e n

for a f am i ly f r iend w ho p ar t ne rs w it h t h is ve nu e to help bu i l d t heir web s ite. L itt l e d i d I k now, he ha d

more su r pr is e d ! It w as abs olutely p e r fe c t .”

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- Kr ist an

LACEY & ZACH WA X A HAC H I E , T X I M AG E S B Y | DA R E T O A I M P HO T O G R A P H IC A RT L ace y and Z ach are anxiously pl anning t heir O c tob e r we d d i ng . T he i r sp e c i a l d ay w i l l b e int imate and r ust ic , w it h s out her n char m and a b oho f l ai r at L oma L i nd a Eve nt s . Thes e t wo radi ate happiness, t he y ne ver stop l au g h i ng and you t r u ly e x p e r i e nc e t he i r love just by b eing arou nd t hem .

E NG AG E ME NT

ALYSSA & REID B OU L D E R F L AT I R O N S , B OU L D E R C O L O R A D O I M AG E S B Y | DAV I D N E F F P HO T O G R A P H Y A lyss a and R eid are h ig h s cho ol swe et he ar t s f rom C ar rol lton, Texas.

The y have b e en toget her for 6 ye ars

and were engage d March 11, 2018. The y w i l l b e ge tt i ng mar r ie d in Mid l ot h i an, Texas on March 22, 2019 at Fi re f ly Gardens .

“ The mor ning we got eng age d is a c tu a l ly a

hi l ar ious stor y. We were st ay ing in a hotel ne ar D e nve r, C olorado and woke up to t he w ater at t he hotel c ompl e tely shut of f due to a pip e bu rst ing ! D espite t he c u r veb a l l, my swe et b oy f r iend qu ick ly r ushe d to h is t r u ck to g rab a ha lf -f rozen g a l l on of w ater and help e d me wash my hair t hat mor n ing since we c ou l d n’t che ck into ou r ne x t hotel unt i l af ter 3 PM ( and he ha d s che du l e d to have ou r photo s t a ke n in Vai l, C olora d o l ater t hat d ay.) Af ter t he mor n i ng hardsh ip, SUMME R

R eid prop os e d at one of my f avor ite pl a c es in t he worl d, on top of t he B ou lder F l at irons. It w as bre at ht a k ing . Af te r l e av i ng t he Fl at irons we drove to Vai l, w here we ha d ou r engage me nt photo s t a ken.” - A lyss a

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SHELBY & DREW T H E L O D G E AT R E D OA K C R E E K I M AG E S B Y | SI E R R A SUM M E R P HO T O G R A P H Y Shelby and D re w

are ge tt i ng mar r i e d on NOVE M BE R 1 1 , 2 0 1 8 at Hi d d e n Wate rs in

Wa xa ha ch ie. Shelby l ive s i n D a l l as , and D re w l ive s i n C e d ar Hi l l but t he y have de cide d to bu i l d in Wa x a ha ch i e i n E l l is C ou nt y w he re t he y b ot h g re w up. T he y got e ngage d on Febr u ar y 11, 2 0 1 8 and are l o ok i ng for ward to a l i fe t i me of happi ne ss to ge t her.

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southernweddingpros

Let's Get Social! sweddingpros

southernweddingpros

SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING Did you say, “Yes! at a venue south of DFW? If so we would love the opportunity to feature it. Submit your wedding to us today at

www.southernweddingpros.com/get-featured

GET INSPIRED For more wedding happiness we inspiration and offer your more ways

@SABELMOMENTS

to see our pros at work. GO ONLINE TODAY and get inspired!

@SHAWNMARIEPHOTO

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showcase amazing styled shoots for

SHOP LOCAL Connect with our local pros and let us help you put together your ideal wedding vendor team. Find our pros online at www.southernweddingpros.com/wedding-pros. Happy Planning!

@BEATBOXPO

RTRAITS

www.SOUTHERNWEDDINGPROS.com

#thesouthernsocialtx #southernweddingpros

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NOT E

FROM

ME LI S S A

WELCOME... SI N C E T H E L AU N C H O F S OU T H E R N W E D D I N G P R O F E S SIO NA L S AT T H E

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B E G I N N I N G O F 2 0 1 7 , M E L I S S A HA S B E G U N A N A DV E N T U R E T O B R E AT H E N EW L I F E I N T O T H E W E D D I N G I N DU S T RY S O U T H O F D F W. I have learned a lot about weddings from being a wedding photographer for over 10 years in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and I know there is still a lot to learn. Early in my career, my ultimate goal was to open a wedding venue, however after spending time getting to know my brides, countless hours editing photographs, networking, and being able to work with some of the best wedding professionals in the area, I was inspired to move in a different direction. The knowledge and relationships gained in those years brought me to this exciting horizon in my career. I value the power of networking and I’ve seen firsthand the virtue in being a “connector”. When I started Southern Wedding Professionals, I knew those around me would help guide and support me when I needed them. I can’t thank you all enough for sticking with me. After moving to Ellis County in 2016, I started to focus on building relationships with venues and vendors in our area. There are well over 25 venues in Ellis County alone. Southern Wedding Professionals hosted their first bridal show, The Southern Social, in February 2018 at The Midlothian Conference Center. My goal is to showcase our venues south of DFW and help promote wedding professionals from all over the metroplex by offering this beautiful magazine for brides, as well as online advertising, hosting The Southern Social bridal show twice a year, and collaborating with the best wedding professionals by putting together some amazing styled shoots. I am very honored to be able to work in an industry with so many talented and creative professionals and I look forward to seeing what the future holds.

Melissa

— OWNE R & F OUN DER

I value network firsthan a "conn

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alue the power of rking and I've seen hand the virtue in being onnector". SOU T H E R NWE DDI NG PRO S . C OM

C U STOM

G OWNS

EV E RY WOM A N D E SE RV E S A G OW N A S U N IQU E LY B E AU T I F U L A S T H E L OV E ST O RY T HAT M A D E T H E M A BRIDE. BEING A W I S T E R IA WAY B R I D E M E A N S YOU ARE WEARING A O N E - O F- A- K I N D G OW N , I M AG I N E D B Y YOU, O N YOU R O N E -

@ THE SIL HO U ETT ES TU D I O

O F- A- K I N D DAY.

The Sage G R EY / G R E E N G OW N W I T H B I L L OW I N G SK I RT S T HAT BU S T L E I N T H E BAC K . T H E F R O N T A N D BAC K HAV E R E C L A I M E D E L E M E N T S I N T H E B E AU T I F U L HA N D C R O C H E T E D P I E C E S .

E MAIL : W I S T E R I AWAY D E S I G NS @ G M A I L . C O M

C U STOM

G OWNS

P E O P L E L O O K AT C U ST OM D E SIG N F O R M A N Y DIFFERENT REASONS. W HAT EV E R YOU R R E A S O N ,

@ CAR HA RTPH OTOG RA PH Y

I A M G L A D YOU A R E H E R E .

The Sarah C A N D L E L IG H T SI L K G OW N W I T H T U L L E OV E R L AY. I T HA S R E C L A I M E D D E TA I L S O N T H E SL E EV E S A N D FAU X BU T T O N S D OW N T H E BAC K O F T H E T O P.

WWW. W I S T E R I AWAY D E S I G N S . C O M

THE

C OV E R

PAIGE & ALEX May 4, 2018

F I R E F LY G A R D E N S | M I D L O T H IA N , T X I M AG E S B Y | R E B E C C A C H E SN EY P HO T O & F I L M

THE BEGINNING:

Paige has known Alex since high school and met through her best friend and his cousin, Kelley, but did not connect until

2016. Alex proposed on New Year’s Eve while they were out to dinner at The Refuge Steak House with friends in The Woodlands, Texas. She was completely surprised and has the whole thing on video! A FORMAL AFFAIR: I wanted an elegant and formal affair with all of our favorite people. Everyone looked stunning in their best attire while we celebrated our love, drank fancy cocktails and danced the night away! The greenery along with all the white flowers made a statement in itself – it brought an organic freshness to the room, which I loved! My colors were black, white and blush. LOCATION: Firefly Gardens had everything we were looking for. One stop shop for a full day wedding experience. Have you seen the back windows of the venue? Absolutely amazing! The all white and the fresh landscape really captured the fairytale wedding I wanted to have. DINNER IS SERVED:

We provided a choice between Salmon with Rice Pilaf and Green Bean Almondine, and Pecan Crusted Chicken with

Scalloped Potatoes and Green Bean Almondine with a white chocolate cake with butter cream with raspberry puree.

"Everyone looked stunning in their best attire while we celebrated our love, drank fancy cocktails and danced the night away!"

FEATURED WEDDING PROS VENUE FIREFLY GARDENS PHOTOGRAPHY REBECCA CHESNEY PHOTO & FILM GOWN THE WHITE DRESS BRIDAL BOUTIQUE BRIDESMAID DRESSES LULUS.COM MENS’S SUITS MENS WAREHOUSE INVITATIONS STURGEON MARKETING GROUP RINGS ZALES CATERING D-SQUARED CATERING CAKE CAKEAHOLICS FLORAL NA DESIGNS MAKEUP MARCY CALLAND HAIR HAIR BY ARIELLE ALLISON VOW BOOKS HOBBY LOBBY DJ PUN THE DJ

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ON T HE C OV E R

SPECIAL MOMENT: My favorite part of the wedding was after the ceremony – a moment with my husband as we took a deep breath and just felt overwhelmed with excitement, love and pure happiness. Minutes after, we were greeted by our closest family and friends before walking back into the reception and announced as husband and wife – the energy in the room was out of this world!!! Our first dance was also too good to not call a favorite – we didn’t rehearse one bit, danced to Jason Aldean’s ‘You Make It Easy’ and nailed it! ADVICE: Don’t do it yourself – find someone who shares your vision and trust. For me, it was my mom, but two minds are definitely better than one when planning for such an important day. Enjoy it – it is your wedding day so cry if you want, but don’t sweat the small stuff. I promise - it is not worth it.

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Brides, want a chance to be featured in the next issue of The Southern Social magazine or online? Share your wedding, engagement, or party with us today! Just make sure your venue is located south of DFW. SUBMIT HERE: southernweddingpros.com/get-featured

LET’S GET SOCIAL #thesouthernsocialtx #southernweddingpros southernweddingpros

sweddingpros

southernweddingpros

@BEATBOXPORTRAITS

You are engaged - congrats! Now what? Book a venue, try on wedding gowns, hire a photographer, choose a florist - the list goes on. There are so many things to do and most likely more than what you ever

planning 101 GET INSPIRED

see page 42 for more

WORK OUT A BUDGET BOOK YOUR VENUE INTERVIEW WEDDING PROS

and stressful but you want to make sure these pros are exactly what you are looking for. The first thing you need to do is set a budget. This can be pretty uncomfortable discussing this if you have other people helping to pay for it. Be prepared for a reality check when you start getting pricing back from your vendors. Most couples don‘t realize how much these services cost. Make a list of those things that are most important to you and prioritize. You can still have your ideal wedding if you focus on the things most important to you and be okay

PLAY DRESS UP

if some of your wish list items don‘t make the cut. Staying organized

CREATE YOUR GUESTLIST

is a task in itself but will help you stay on target with all of your check

SAVE THE DATE

lists, deadlines, and your personal life as well.

CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING PARTY BOOK YOUR PROS

With all this being said, make sure to take the time and enjoy being

SAY YES TO THE DRESS

engaged. Have fun and don‘t get caught up in the small details. Happy

HONEYMOON

Planning!

Melissa

CREATE YOUR GIFT REGISTRY SHARE WITH YOUR GUESTS BOOK YOUR HONEYMOON

MELISSA SHOOK owner/founder

THE GUYS

contact me at melissa@southernweddingpros.com

INVITATIONS HAIR AND MAKEUP TRIAL CREATE A TIMELINE FINALIZE DETAILS

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expected. Booking a wedding professional can be time consuming

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You're Engaged!

I NSPI R ATION

SUMMER GARDEN a bridal session

FEATURED WEDDING PROS PHOTO & VIDEO REBECCA CHESNEY PHOTO & FILM PLANNER SOUTHERN HOUSEWIVES PLANNING VENUE STONEBRIDE WEDDING VENUE FLORAL ALBA DAHLIA FLORAL RENTALS GOLD DUST EVENT CO. STATIONERY BROWN FOX CREATIVE

As soon as I saw Stonebridge Venue, I knew I wanted to feature its amazing outdoor areas such as the oak tree, the creek, the river, and their gorgeous walkway through the trees. I instantly thought that a summer garden wedding would be a perfect way to show off the beautiful outdoor and kick off wedding season with bright florals, bright colors, and with gold accents. Rachel, with Alba Dahlia Floral, did such an amazing job with the florals for this shoot. Her choice of flowers made perfect sense with what I envisioned. From the

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model’s stunning floral crown-which was the

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the most beautiful, simple and elegant make up,

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linens in the shoot were provided by Southern

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bouquet, to the centerpiece arrangement, to our

runner and the bright blue napkins to go with our

perfect touch to the garden theme of the shoot. Our make up artist, Rebekah Tidwell, created

keeping it light and airy with a touch of shimmer and did our model’s hair in loose waves so that it would not detract from the floral crown. The

Housewives to pull in the gold accents with the

bright colors in the flowers and other decor as well as the draping in the tree; SH also provided the vintage window pane program.

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I NSPI R AT ION

Gold Dust Event Co. provided us with the beautiful variety of gold chairs used at the table, under the tree, and on the walkway as well as the plates and chargers and decorated gold votives used on the sweet heart table arrangement, as well as the gold bar cart and the Victorian style cake table. The most adorable garden pink cake was

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by Alba Dahlia as well. The hand painted signature drink sign was

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together our shoot. Ava’s Bridal provides the gorgeous dress that fit our

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and airy feel throughout the shoot with her editing and vision; she also

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created by Halee with Wildflour Cakery, and the flowers provided

studded team to work with and the vendors made this shoot both fun

crafted by Tiffany with Belle Petite Design. Kristin with Brown Fox Creative created a gorgeous floral wedding stationary that really pulled

model perfectly, we chose a dress that was mainly lace with just a touch of bling to add a classic touch with some fun to our shoot. Rebecca Chesney took some of the most gorgeous pictures and kept that light

provided the flower seeds for the favor table. Overall this was a star

and beautiful. If you are still looking for vendors for your wedding, I recommend any of the ones used in this shoot! - Devon, Southern Housewives Planning

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WOR K

WI T H

FRESH MARKET COFFEE & FRESH FLOWERS AND GATHERINGS W R I T T E N B Y | R E B E C C A C H E SN EY

Fresh is quick ly b e c om ing a st apl e in d ow ntow n Waxa ha ch ie. Step in and it’s e asy

I M AG E S B Y | F L AV IA WAT K I N S P HO T O G R A P H Y

to s e e w hy. Shane Henr y, t he ow ner of Fresh Market, des cr ib es t he fe el as “e cl e c t ic”. It’s b e en des cr ib e d as “ home y and inv it ing” by c ustomers. The ide a of a mu lt i-f u nc t iona l sp a ce consist ing of a cof fe e shop and f resh c ut f l or a l ar rangements was b or n f rom t he f r iendsh ip of Shane and C our t ne y Ke en-F l ores. Teres a C ho ate and Henr y Fr ay re have t a ken over t he f lora l side of Fresh since C our t ne y’s p assing in 2014. The Fresh

an excel lent lo c at ion for rehe ars a l d inners, e ngagement p ar t ies, and more. In a d d it ion,

a l l size e vents. “We are ab out s er v ing ou r communit y and b e ing p ar t of it . There is a sp ot , a sto ol, a chair, s omepl a ce for e ver yone here.” - Shane Henr y, O w ner of Fresh Market C of fe e.

L E A R N M O R E AT: F R SH M R K T C O F F E E . C OM W W W. I N STAG R A M . C OM / F R E SH M A R K E T C O F F E E W W W. FAC E B O O K . C OM / F R E SH M A R K E T WA X F R E SH F L OW E R S A N D G AT H E R I N G S W W W. FAC E B O O K . C OM / F R E SH F L OW E R S A N D G AT H E R I N G S SOU T H E R NWE DDI NG PRO S . C OM

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t he y c an prov ide c of fe e and a f u l l s et up for

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bui lding is avai l abl e for rent and wou l d ma ke

U SE

RU G S

I N

YOU R

WE DDI NG

@L AUR EN N IC OL EPH OTO_

HOW

@ M EGGIE. TAYL OR

Inc or p orat i ng r u gs i nto you r we dding w i l l h i g h l i g ht t he fo c a l p oi nt , as wel l as a c c e ntu ate t he c ol or s che me of your we d d i ng . D u r i ng t he c e re mony, r ugs prov i d e te x tu re and d e s i g n w he n us e d d ow n t he we d d i ng aisl e. T h is addit ion to

@B EAT B OX PO RT RAI T S

I N C O R P O R AT I N G RU G R E N TA L S I N T O YOU R W E D D I N G One of t he hottest t rends for b ohem i an st y l e we d d i ngs is to i nc or p orate r ugs into your ceremony and re cept ion sp a ce. Not on ly d o e s t h is a d d s ome unex p e c te d interest , using r u g s in a we d d ing c an a d d a v isu a l i nte re st , b e us e d as a fo c a l p oint , or us e d as an a cc ent . The var iet y of c ol ors, textu re, and st y l es a d d v isu a l app e a l to a sp a c e.

@J OR DA N QU INNPHOTOGR APHY

t he sp a c e w i l l br i ng e mphas is to t he aisle, as you r gu e st s ant i c ip ate t he br ide’s e nt r y. A l e ss e x p e ns ive a lte r nat ive is using a s i ng l e r u g at t he a lt ar. Ru gs have gai ne d p opu l ar it y b e c aus e of t he i r u n i qu e f l ai r and b e aut y. Not on ly d o c oupl e s us e r u gs du r i ng t he ir we dding c e re mony, t he y are a c ol or f u l and cl assic a d d it i on to you r re c e pt i on sp ace. By pl a c i ng a b e aut i f u l r u g d i re c t ly in f ront of t he he a d t abl e, t he gu e st s c an re dire c t t he i r atte nt i on to t he ne w ly we d couple. Anot he r p opu l ar t re nd is to a cce nt a s e at i ng v i g ne tte or e ve n at a c o ckt ai l t able w it h a b e aut i f u l ant i qu e Pe rs i an r ug . If you wou l d l i ke more i n for mat ion ab out i nc or p orat i ng r u gs i nto you we dding d e s i g n , pl e as e c ont a c t Kare n McInt y re at Ga l l i more Fi ne Ru gs.

The mot if of t he r u g c aters to anyone w ho w ishe s to i nc or p orate a u n i qu e element into his or her we d d ing sp a ce. The var i e t y of st y l e s i nclu d e

F O R L O C A L R E N TA L I N F O C O N TAC T:

t radit iona l r ugs, ant iqu e Persi an r u g s, mo d er n r u gs , v i nt age r u gs , and

su garc re ekv i nt age re nt a ls @ g mai l. com

b ohemi an r ugs , as wel l as ot her st y l es and choi c e s .

@ su garc re ekv i nt age re nt a ls

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SOU T H E R NWE DDI NG PRO S . C OM

@TRACYAUTEM

planning 101 6 - 12 months

3 - 6 months

GET INSPIRED | Start browsing Southern

CREATE YOUR GUESTLIST | Start thinking about

SHARE WITH YOUR GUESTS | Send out your

Wedding Pros wedding ideas, real

your guest count and who’s invited.

save the date cards to let your invitees know about it!

SAVE THE DATE | Find a stationer and order

wedding style and color palette.

your save the dates cards and create your own

BOOK YOUR HONEYMOON | Whether you

wedding website.

book local or destination, start preparing.

but try to stay open and establish your top

CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING PARTY | Who do you

THE GUYS | Choose the formalware and get the

priorities.

want by your side at the altar?

guys fitted.

BOOK YOUR VENUE | We have a variety of

BOOK YOUR PROS | Make sure to sign

INVITATIONS | Confirm your invitation wording

wedding venues south of DFW. For more tips on

contracts and know what you are getting.

from your stationer and order your invitations.

what to look for in a venue check out our blog.

SOU TH E R N

as other wedding blogs to help create your

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weddings and our Pinterest boards as well

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9 - 12 months

WORK OUT A BUDGET | This might be tough

Consider adding programs, menu cards, and/or SAY YES TO THE DRESS | Order your gown,

place cards. Have a organized way to record

accessories and bridesmaids dresses.

your RSVP.

your ideal wedding vendor team. Shop our

HONEYMOON | Start thinking about where you

HAIR AND MAKEUP TRIAL | A trial is just about

website for our favorite local wedding pros.

want to go for your honeymoon.

the best thing you can do. Schedule it at the

PLAY DRESS UP | Make sure to try on dresses

CREATE YOUR GIFT REGISTRY | Go shopping

even if you think it‘s not what you want. You

and create your gift registry and don’t forget

might be surprised!

to update your wedding website with new

CREATE A TIMELINE | Check with your

information such as hotel accommodations.

photographer to make sure you know when

INTERVIEW WEDDING PROS | Consider hiring a wedding planner. We’d love to help you book

time of your bridal portraits and you be so happy you did.

it‘s best to take photos so you can plan accordingly.

FINALIZE DETAILS | Book your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner reservations. Reconfirm time with vendors. Hire a day-of coordinator if you don‘t have a full-service planner or one isn‘t included with your venue. IMAGES BY SABEL MOMENTS

It's your wedding, so make it yours!

F E ATU R E D

V E NU E

Stonebridge Wedding Venue

A short ri de f ro m th e DW F m etrople x , Ston e bri d g e e n v e l op s ev e ry t hi n g whi msi c a l a n d roma n t i c a b ou t th e Te xas c ountryside . O v e rl o ok in g a l az y ri v e r on a g r as sy blu ff, Ston e bri d g e i s home to on e of t he “ Top Ten ” l a rge st L ive Oak tre e s in Te x as. Ston e b rid g e i s si mu lta n e ou sly t re n dy, v i n tag e , roma n t i c , a n d ru st ic. Hi story is e i the r made w ith your c e re mon y un de rn e at h ou r L i v e Oa k , or re l ax by t he Nol a n R i v e r, su rrou n ded b y wate rfa lls as you se e your dre am “ fairy tal e ” we ddi n g be c ome re a l i t y. L i v e - i t - u p i n d o or s be n e at h t hree massi v e chande li e rs, or tak e a spin aroun d our ou t d o or da n c e fl o or su rrou n de d by t wi n k l i n g l i g hts a n d sta rry n i g h ts. E njoy gl ori ous sun sets, re l ax in g, w ith a c o c k ta i l i n ha n d u n de rn e at h t he sha de of ou r de c k . He re, th e on ly li mi tati on i s your im agination . D re am b ig, you hav e pe r mi s si on . P l a n you r u n i qu e we ddi n g e x pe ri e n c e today.

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IMAGES BY: TOP LEFT @KORTNEYBOYETTPHOTO, TOP RIGHT @KATHRYNKRUEGERPHOTOGRAPHY, BOTTOM LEFT @AMYZUMWALTPHOTO, BOTTOM RIGHT @GRANTDANIELS

The Venue

TUXEDO HALL

IS PERFECT TO ACCOMMODATE YOUR RECEPTION OR CEREMONY.

The Tree

THE LIVE OAK

TREE IS ONE FOR THE RECORDS AND STUFF THAT DREAMS ARE MADE OF.

The Views

WITH OVER 40

ACRES, STONEBRIDGE IS LOCATED ON THE NOLAN RIVER. WATERFALLS,

DESIGNED WITH THE GORGEOUS

WITH A PLACE IN THE “TOP TEN

OXBOW, ROLLING HILLS, ROMANTIC

HILL COUNTRY AS THE FOCAL

LARGEST OAK TREES IN TEXAS”, IT

LIGHTS, AND GIGANTIC OAKS ARE

POINT.

IS THE PERFECT “SOMETHING OLD”

ALWAYS VISIBLE.

FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY.

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A FLORAL EXPERIENCE P O E N I E S HA S A N A M A Z I N G C R A F T T O N O T O N LY D E SIG N YOU R D R E A M F L O R A L S BU T I N D O I N G S O M A K I N G I T O N E YO U W I L L N EV E R F O R G E T.

FEATURED WEDDING PROS FLORALS P E O N I E S PHOTOGRAPHER NATE AND GRACE PHOTOGRAPHY VENUE THISTLE SPRINGS RANCH RENTALS GRAND EVENTS AND PARTY RENTALS

F LOR A L

E X PE R I E NC E

“I wanted to create free flowing unstr uctured personal flowers in blush tones for the bride and bridesmaids that featured several different types of scented garden roses, lots of textured g reener y. In addition I love to accent with unexpected kale, hanging features, ber ries and r ustic touches to the ele gance of the flowers.”

“I couldn’t do a styled shoot without a classic white and ivor y collection, but wanted to add my eclectic touches with the awesome show stopping artichoke in the bridal bouquet sur rounded by soft velvety garden roses.”

“In contrast to the more for mal feel, I wanted to design a more casual r ustic presentation featuring the varied sized sunflowers with amazing accents of Billy Balls, oversized hypericum ber ries, maze and thistle. T he laughter of the models confir med the fun of this collection!”

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SOU T H E R NWE DDI NG PRO S . C OM

“I designed a second white and ivor y bridal bouquet in the ne wer cascading style to compliment this g roup since you can never have enough classic “feels”! I wanted to feature a raised table centerpiece that gives guests the ability to talk over dinner but still be visible during the reception and dancing.”

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“T his miniature pineapple was the inspiration for the wine and white selections

complimented

some

ridiculously humongous peonies that smelt divine… I just believe that many varied textured g reens bring life to the actual flowers.”

G RO OM

SHO OT

GENTLEMAN’S STYLED SHOOT I M AG E S B Y | JA S O N & L AU R I E P HO T O G R A P H Y

GENTLEMEN!

ALL

THE

BOUQUETS

AND

BOUTONNIÈRES, CAKES AND FLOURISHES, WEDDING DAY PROBABLY SEEMS A LITTLE MORE LIKE TULLE AND TAFFETA TORTURE THAN A DAY TO HANG OUT WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY. I wanted to focus this shoot on the groom and let them know, this day is also about the you too. Nothing says groom-tastic

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like whiskey, cigars, and some poker playing fun. Blaine Stone

Lodge has the perfect location for you grooms...well... brides too! I wanted to feature the guys getting ready, hanging out, and enjoying their time together before all the wedding festivities begin. You don’t have to be crammed into a small room all day without any fun. I highly encourage you to find a getting ready location with a lot of character and a lot of natural light. This will make your photographs really fun and unique. Relax and enjoy your day your deserve it! - Melissa Shook, Southern Wedding Professionals

FEATURED WEDDING PROS COLLABORATOR SOUTHERN WEDDING PROFESSIONALS

VENUE BLAINE STONE LODGE PLANNER DAYDREAM EVENTS

BY JESS PHOTOGRAPHER JASON & LAURIE PHOTOGRAPHY FLORAL ALBA DAHLIA FLORAL RENTALS WREN’S RELICS STATIONERY BROWN FOX CREATIVE CIGARS TOBACCO CABANNA CIGAR HOLDER/FLASK THE GROOMSDAY

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With This Ring

R I NG

PE R S ONA LI T I E S

I’m sure you have sent your future fiancée your Pinterest board with your favorite ring styles as suggestions for when he is ready to propose. Or maybe while on a date you took him window shopping, so he might have paid attention to what you showed him? Your engagement ring is a symbol of your commitment to each other. Choosing something to wear on your finger for the rest of your life should be fun, not stressful. After all, it will all be part of your love story you tell your grandchildren. Some brides have always known what type of ring and style they want, but if you are like me, indecisive or fickle, this can leave you with high anxiety. A round-cut solitaire, a halo oval design, or maybe even a having a pink sapphire instead of a traditional diamond? What is on your finger most likely sets the tone for your wedding and shows off your personality. You can choose to go timeless with a prong-set solitaire. That is as classic as it gets. I’m willing to bet that your planning a simple yet stylish wedding. Maybe you aren’t so traditional and you have gorgeous Morganite stone set in a diamond halo with a rose gold band? I’m thinking your wedding will be more boho and very unique with special touches. While researching engagement rings online and narrowing down your choices, nothing beats shopping

Want to know more about what your ring says about you? Read on and see what my friends

walk you through the process of designing and purchasing your engagement ring. -Melissa, Southern Wedding Professionals

FEATURED WEDDING PROS C OLLAB ORATO R S O UTH E RN WE DDIN G P RO F E S S I O NA L S JEWELRY CAV E S J E WE L RY, IN C PH OTOG RAP HE R JAS O N AN D L AURIE P H OTO G R A P H Y STYLING BROWN FOX C RE ATIV E FLORALS ALBA DAH L IA FL O RAL

SOU T H E R NWE DDI NG PRO S . C OM

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at Caves Jewerly have to offer. Let them help

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in person to see and feel the ring firsthand.

Classy Girl THE CLASSY BRIDE IS NOT ONLY STYLISH AND SOPHISTICATED BUT SHE IS KIND AND GENTLE AND PAIRS PERFECTLY WITH A SOLITAIRE. SIMPLE AND ELEGANT SETS THE TONE. 1. The classic halo design made for the oval shaped diamond. Designed for brides looking for a classy and timeless look. $2,650 (center stone not included) 2. Another rendition of the halo design, but for a princess cut diamond. $2,850 (center stone not included) 3. As classy as a traditional solitaire but with a little extra sparkle. .60 ctw all ideal cut diamonds. $6,800

Bold & Beautiful “GO BIG OR GO HOME” IS THE MOTTO OF THIS BRIDE. THESE RINGS ARE PERFECT FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR A SOME BLING AND MAYBE A LITTLE MORE “OOHS AND AHHS.” 1. Bold and big. Our twist on a classic 3 stone ring. Custom design with a 3 ct center stone. 5 ctw ring. $45,000 2. When a solitaire just isn’t enough, a 2 ct center diamond with a straight line diamond band will surely capture all the “oohs and ahhs”. $20,000 3. This ring is the perfect combination of boldness and simplicity. Big enough to make all your friends jealous. $16,000

Make a Statement WITH A MIXTURE OF STONES AND METALS, POSSIBLY STAYING AWAY FROM THE TYPICAL DIAMOND, THIS BRIDE LIKES TO STAND OUT IN A CROWD. 1. A mix of rose gold and white gold accented by .37 ctw round cut diamonds, .10 ctw pink diamonds, and .53 ctw baguette cut diamonds. $6,116 2. A match made in heaven. A Yellow gold shank with a white gold diamond accent. $2,310 (center stone not included) 3. A floral inspired engagement ring that is lightly accented with .28 ctw shimmering round cut white diamonds. $1,650 (center stone not included)

Wild & Free BEING DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE IS THE NAME OF THE GAME WITH THIS BOHO BRIDE. SHE SETS THE TONE FOR A VERY CALM AND FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE. 1. A unique twist for that special bride looking to turn heads. A Morganite stone set in a diamond halo and rose gold. $1,450 2. For the bride who loves to stand out. 14k rose gold, diamond halo, and criss-cross split shank. $1,895 (center stone not included) 3. A Doves 18k yellow gold ring with a white topaz center stone and diamond halo. $1,350 4. Being different is beautiful. Especially in a 14k white gold pink sapphire ring. $4,500

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DE STI NAT ION

TRAVEL TALK W R I T T E N B Y | D E N I SE D E LV E C C H IO,

ARUBA

M AG IC D E ST I NAT IO N T R AV E L T H E I SL A N D YOU H I R E D T H E C AT E R E R S , BA K E R , P HO T O G R A P H E R , A N D T H E DJ. T H E V E N U E HA S B E E N R E SE RV E D A N D EV E RY T H I N G I S A L L SE T F O R YOU R W E D D I N G . W E L L N O T EV E RY T H I N G , W HAT A B OU T YO U R HO N EYM O O N ? T H E HO N EYM O O N I S T H E F I R S T A DV E N T U R E T H E T WO O F YOU W I L L TA K E A S H U SBA N D A N D W I F E , D O N O T T RU ST I T T O W HAT YOU F I N D O N T H E I N T E R N E T. D O E SN ’ T I T M A K E SE N SE T O H I R E A P R O F E S SIO NA L F O R T H I S T O O ? T R AV E L AG E N T S SP E N D T H E I R DAYS ( A N D S OM E T I M E S N IG H T S ) R E SE A R C H I N G A N D T R A I N I N G T O B E C OM E SP E C IA L I ST S I N T H E I R F I E L D. AT M AG IC D E ST I NAT IO N S T R AV E L , L L C W E HAV E A S AY I N G : YOU P IC K T H E D E ST I NAT IO N , W E M A K E I T M AG IC ! ! ™ S O W HAT A R E T H E HO T D E ST I NAT IO N S T H I S Y E A R ?

D E N I SE D E LV E C C H IO, M AG IC D E ST I NAT IO N T R AV E L

B onbi n i ! Wel c ome to Ar ub a w he re t he re is c onst ant su nsh i ne te mp e re d w it h c o ol t ra d e w i nds . It’s not just t he tu rqu ois e wate rs and p owd e r y s of t s and b e a che s t hat ma ke t h is d e st i nat i on one of t he top hone y mo on get aways. T he p e opl e of Ar ub a are ve r y wel c omi ng to tour ists and t he re is a l itt l e s ome t h i ng for e ve r yone to e nj oy. Adve ntu re, Wel l ne ss , R omanc e, Cu ltu re, and Fo o d. You w i l l f i nd it a l l i n Ar ub a !

DE STI NAT ION

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS N O PA S SP O RT R E QU I R E D If you are crav ing a t ropic a l d est inat ion but d o not have

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

a p assp or t, cons id er t he US Virg in Isl ands. Whe t he r it is t he p er fe c t C ar ibb e an get aw ay. Eng l ish is sp oken he re and t here is no ne e d for c u r renc y exchange. The on ly t h i ng you you w i l l not f ind any A l l -Inclusive opt ions here. Inste a d you w i l l f ind s ome “Eu rop e an Pl ans”. Tr ansl at ion: Bre a k f ast inclu d e d.

T he D omi n i c an R e publ i c is just t wo hou rs s out h of Mi ami and D a l l as of fe rs s e ve ra l d i re c t f l i g ht s f rom t he DF W are a. Pr ist i ne b e a che s , E c otou r is m, R omanc e, G olf, and a dve ntu re are just a fe w of t he t h i ngs t hat have Ame r ic ans t hat onc e f l o cke d to Me x i c o now he a d e d to t he D omin ic an R e publ i c .

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w i l l ne e d to note, is t hat sinc e it is p ar t of t he Unite d St ate s

E C O T O U R I SM

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St Croix , St. John, or St . Thomas, t he US Virg in Isl ands is

A STYLED SHOOT WORKSHOP I MAGES B Y | R A N D M BL ED S OE PHOTO G R APH Y “Wedding photography is about love, and as wedding photographers, we see first hand the day that love has built. As a husband and wife wedding photography team, we see what love builds in our clients, and we see that same special something in what Rebecca and her husband Tim have made together. Rebecca Chesney’s Workshop covered a lot of the bases of a photography business and gave meaningful advice about how her and her husband have been able to turn their passions into a profession. The information they shared is perfect for anyone who is trying to find their way into making the big next steps in their photographic journey. We met other wedding

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photographers there who were much like us, people who knew some but understood that there is always room to grow. A high point of the workshop was meeting the talented vendors who participated in the styled shoot portion of the day and then photographing their beautiful work. The new friendships and relationships we made with our peers who attended was a huge benefit that we did not expect, but are very thankful for. We definitely recommend this workshop for photography professionals who are just starting out or who want to see how other professionals in their field work.” - Michelle Bledsoe Photography

THE

DETA I LS

FEATURED WEDDING PROS HOST REBECCA CHESNEY PHOTO AND FILM DESIGN REBECCA CHESNEY PHOTO AND FILM, TEXAS PEARLS AND CO., & UNIQUE CREATIONS BY AMALIA PHOTOGRAPHY R AND M BLEDSOE PHOTOGRAPHY BAKERY BITTERSWEET BAKERY STATIONERY BROWN FOX CREATIVE HAIR & MAKEUP LOCKS BY RACH RENTALS TEXAS PEARLS AND CO. FLORAL UNIQUE CREATIONS BY AMALIA JEWELRY CAVES JEWELRY GOWN BHLDN/TADASHI SHOJI

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The objective of this was to give participants a chance to

photograph a beautiful styled shoot they could use for their portfolio and learn business strategies to help them

gain momentum in their business. Topics covered included networking, building a strong portfolio, cohesiveness in content, marketing, and finding your unique voice. - REBECCA CHESNEY PHOTO & FILM

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I NSPI R ATION

A HIDDEN GEM I M AG E S B Y | K HA P T U R E P HO T O G R A P H Y & D E SIG N

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Nestled in a quiet and wooded wonderland, why not say "I do" at this beautiful and romantic venue.

With the beautiful scenery at Hidden Waters in Waxahachie, Texas,, the venue can’t help but give off a tasteful hint of

Tuscany, Italy. We decided to set the mood with bright and bold colors combining the tones of fuchsia, teal, black and gold accents. From the large bold Italian candelabras, to the water colored stationary suite and the fruit infused pergola it created such a dramatic and bold effect. - Ammie, Glitter and Glue Weddings

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FEATURED WEDDING PROS COLLABORATOR SOUTHERN WEDDING PROFESSIONALS PLANNING & DESIGN GLITTER AND GLUE WEDDINGS PHOTOGRAPHY KHAPTURE PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN VENUE HIDDEN WATERS STATIONERY/CALLIGRAPHY MAD PAPERIE CAKE THE FLYING PIG BAKERY AND CUSTOM CAKES HAIR & MAKEUP STYLES BY VERO TABLEWARE ROYAL EVENT RENTALS FLORAL HEB BURLESON GOWN PENCE AND PANACHE MODEL CATHERINE

H ow t o f i n d YO U R p h o t o g r a p h e r YOU R M I N I - G U I D E T O H E L P YO U F I N D YO U R P E R F E C T W E D D I N G P HO T O G R A P H E R

A RT IC L E & I M AG E S B Y | TA R A A R SEV E N P HO T O G R A P H Y

I always like to joke to my couple’s about how awesome and ‘brave’ they are to pick me as their wedding photographer ‘out of a gazillion other options’ they had. No, really! As a vendor in the wedding industry, I feel like the ratio of photographers vs all other vendors outsize all others nationwide! You can randomly wave your hand in the air for 5 seconds at a vendor gathering and accidentally bump into 48 wedding photographers (nobody else!)! (LOL!) We know, with so many options it can be VERY overwhelming!

#1 - BOOK YOUR VENUE FIRST Most vendors cannot sign a contract with you unless you have your venue and date set in stone

to shift and change things because we might be booked for your new date. So before looking into anything else - lock down your venue(s)!

First thing’s first - set your priorities. Photos and videos are the only thing that really stay long years after your wedding and it is important that you set a budget for it. For more realistic expectations, doing a little research on wedding websites by setting a budget range, you can get a general idea of what you can expect within your budget, or if you need to readjust your budgeting on certain things. After you set your budget, now it is time to find those photographers who make your heart palpitate with their images. Some are light and airy, some are dark and moody, some are in between (like me) - which I like to call myself, “organic”. Make

a list of the photographers you think will be a good fit. Then do a deeper research: lookup their reviews online, look through their website, stalk them on Facebook and Instagram! Narrow down your choices so you can start sending out inquiries and start your phone consultations. I promise, there is a photographer for everyone with every style and budget - and you have just done most of the hard work!

#3 - FIND SOMEONE YOU NOT ONLY LIKE, BUT LOVE When a bride or groom-to-be contacts me, the first thing I tell them is “let’s chat on the phone to get to know each other better!” Since they already have basic knowledge on my pricing, that phone call is not meant to be “let’s talk money and legal stuff ” - it is solely for them to get to know me, my personality, my life and vice versa! After all, we photographers and videographers are the one’s who start the day with you and finish it with you.

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#2 - DO YOUR RESEARCH

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- in case your date changes due to the unavailability of the venue you want, we may not be able

We are there when you ugly cry with your girls after putting on your dress, often reminding you “Hey hey! Now that makeup’s to hold up until the ceremony!” (hahaha!), we are there when you see your bride walking down the isle - trying to look cool, but barely holding it together… We are there when you can’t help but smile like nobody else’s business, holding hands at the alter while vowing for the rest of your lives together… We are there when you drink a little too much and lose it on the dance floor, showing everyone else how it is really done… We are there when you runaway from the party, holding hands, having a few minutes in private - trying to acknowledge “Holy purple cow! We just got married!”… We are there AT ALL TIMES. So yeah, it is important that you like our personality as much as you love our work! It is important that we like you back too! Personally, my first motivation is not money. Sure it is great to be able to live an independent life - but I know myself, I cannot be stuck with a bunch of people I have no emotional connection for 8+ hours! It is important to me that we lay our cards out before anything else and set “real” expectations to avoid any conflict in the future.

I asked some of my couples to tell me more about how they decided to book their photographer

“Can you fill me in about your process? Like, how did you first get a hold of me? How did you decide to go with me? What was “the biggest reason” you can advice other brides who are just starting planning?”

“First, I asked publicly for recommendations, stalked people’s wedding pictures and decided those weren’t the folks for me. Then I got on various wedding websites/social media platforms

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and did some serious digging on everyone that was in my price range (and some that were so NOT in my price range), until I found your photos- they spoke to me... those were the kinds

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(aka me) but this can apply to any other photographer!

don’t like your personality then you weren’t the photographer for me... I was SOLD, that’s my

of images I want on my big day. Aside from your beautiful work- when you told me that if I

WOMAN. The most important advice I would give a bride is to find the vendors that work well with your style... you can’t change who you are, and the process is so much better if you’re with people you enjoy and communicate well with.” (Melissa R. - Tulsa, OK)

#4 - LISTEN TO YOUR HEART Sometimes your perfect photographer may not be that super popular photographer everybody is talking about. Sometimes it might be someone who has just been in the industry for 2-3 years. Sometimes it’s that new photographer who recently moved to the area. I’m not saying “Go hire a newbie” - oh no, that is another topic to talk about (I always have newbies reach out to me and I’ll always keep advising them to assist and/or even third shoot for seasoned photographers first - then go and fly with their own wings!) but don’t be scared to give them a chance, talk to them on the phone or meet them in person.

“You know how I always joke to you about being SO BRAVE and picking me when I had just moved here and had absolutely no solid ground in DFW? What impacted your decision given the fact there are way too many photographers out there? How did you start your search and came to make a decision?”

”

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I M AG E S B Y | TA R A A R SEV E N P HO T O G R A P H Y

“

After you set your budget, now it is time to find those photographers who make your heart palpitate with their images. Some are light and airy, some are dark and moody, some are in between (like me) - which I like to call myself, “organic”.

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south!

Getting married - just look

Waxahachie Midlothian

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Ennis Italy

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Red Oak Forreston

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Cleburne

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Alvarado Grandview Burleson Hillsboro @KATEPANZAPHOTOGRAPHY

Whitney Blum Bluff Dale and more!

“When I first started looking for photographers, it was like a sea of options: between Google searches and recommendations from The Knot, there were almost too many photographers to choose from, and many of them had similar portfolios. Every detail of our wedding was carefully planned to represent us specifically. I didn’t want just another “Pinterest” wedding that looked like it could belong to anyone, and I didn’t want my wedding photos to look that way either. I wanted a photographer who would take the time to understand what I like, especially since I don’t enjoy traditional poses or feel comfortable modeling for the camera. It was important to find someone fun and friendly with a unique portfolio, and we accidentally stumbled upon your website during our search. What finally made my decision was your story about moving here from Turkey, and I instantly fell in love with your astro-love photos. Your bio talked a lot about your own life, your development as a photographer, and your commitment to getting to know your brides. That was huge for me. I assumed that if you were comfortable enough to share a piece of your life with potential clients, you probably enjoyed getting to know other people as well. My decision ultimately came down to choosing someone with a fun, unique portfolio and an amazing personality, and you had both! I am so happy I

“It

important

that you pick someone

with knowledge and

experience,

who

knows how to use light and create a great composition.”

chose you, and it wasn’t something that felt “brave” to me. To me, you seemed like the obvious choice - the ONLY choice! If I had to give any advice to other brides, I would say

friendly, and memorable.” - Jessica C. - Phoenix, AZ

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#5 - QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY

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find a photographer who can help make your day unique and a photographer that is fun,

The number of photos, or the number of products you get within your choice of package is not everything. You can always get quality prints, anytime after your wedding - even if it’s years and years later. But you can’t get everything back together to replay your wedding day with a different photographer. It is important that you pick someone with knowledge and experience, who knows how to use light and create a great composition. We all work hard to earn our money, and you deserve the best for the time and money you put in!

#6 - KNOW YOUR LIGHTING SITUATION Now, I’m about to get a little bit technical but it is very important that you know what exactly you need and that if your dream photographer is tough enough to handle it. If your wedding is during the day, with the perfect open shade reflecting natural light - no need to read further for this part. But, if you have a dark church/chapel ceremony, if your party is going to be after dark fall, you need to consider a photographer that knows off-camera flash and can work with any lighting situation, regardless if your venue has tall white walls or no walls (hello outdoor reception!) - even if this means shooting in complete dark. Now is that possible? Yes! It is important to know what the photographer you are considering is capable of. I’ve seen so many disappointed brides because their photographer had amazing daylight photos but failed at their low-light wedding/reception. Now there are some situations where regardless of how experienced the photographer is, they won’t be able to use their skills - aka church rules. Most churches don’t allow flash photography during the ceremony, and unfortunately there’s nothing we can do about it. That is where we rely on our gear and how good they’re in low light situations. But in any other situations we should be able to manipulate the light and get you “the best of the best” images. Think ahead and ask to see examples of different light situations. In theory, we all are awesome photographers - but in practice, ask for proof!

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#7 - VIEW REAL WEDDING GALLERIES Once you narrow down your options to where you can set in-person meetings, make sure to ask if you can see real weddings. I put my best of the best photos online - because there’s no way I can fit EVERY wedding I’ve shot on my website, or any other social media site. Technically - we can fit it in, but nobody, not at least at their first glimpse, is going to look at all of them one by one! I prefer to show off and tell “This is what you should expect” during the in-person meeting, as the couple and I have already invested some time in each other. I also bring some albums with me - so they can touch and feel how they are like… Which will bring me to #7…

#8 - KNOW WHAT EXACTLY YOU ARE GETTING FOR WHAT YOU ARE PAYING This is a saturated market and we photographers have way too many different packages to choose from. Again, set your priorities! Is your wedding very small, short and sweet? Maybe 50-80 people, and 5-6 hours max? Perfect! One photographer will be enough… Is it a bigger guest list and a longer day? You should consider two photographers - two assure everything is taken care of. Do you want an engagement session? (Which I always say, this is a trial run with your photographer. Nobody is a natural born magazine model and we can get awkward in front of the camera! The best way to avoid any camera shyness are those engagement sessions! Now that you know what you want/need - see if the packages you are looking at include these. Does the package include digitals or prints? Do you get an album or do you have to purchase that separately? What does the albums look like? Can you customize them? Can you print your photos on your own, or do you have to print through your photographer? Don’t be shy to ask questions! It is very important prior to signing the contract and putting down the retainer that you know what you are getting. This will avoid any future conflicts!

#9 - TURN-AROUND TIME The wedding is over, the cake slices didn’t last 5 minutes, everybody danced the night away, now what? Every photographer, depending on how booked they are and how they post-process their photos, have different turn-around times. Just like anything else - make sure you talk this ahead of time so you

know when to expect your photos. I typically give a “6-8 weeks after the wedding” time frame and let my clients know if anything extraordinary is going on. If nothing, I always post some sneak peeks so they don’t have to wait “forever” to see some of the best photos from their day!

#10 - HAVE LOTS OF FUN! This is the final and most important thing of all things wedding planning - not just photography wise - HAVE LOTS OF FUN ON YOUR BIG DAY! Things may go wrong, maybe the cake got poked by your little nephew, maybe the electricity went out and the generator did not kick in for 5 seconds during your vows. Maybe you chipped your nail or stepped in mud. It really doesn’t matter! What matters is how much fun you had! At that moment, small things are going to look like “this is it! Everything is ruined!” But believe me none of your family or friends will agree with you and all will say “Let’s keep this party going!” Don’t sweat the small things - look at the bigger picture! You just took your first step to your new chapter for the rest of your life, with your other half and loved one’s next to you!

A RT IC L E & I M AG E S B Y | TA R A A R SEV E N P HO T O G R A P H Y @TA RA RSEV EN

celebrate love

A L O O K AT R E A L C OU P L E S W HO S A I D “I D O” AT O U R V E N U E S S O U T H O F D F W.

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SOU T H E R NWE DDI NG PRO S . C OM

SHELBY & TREY October 14, 2017

T H E N AT HA R DWAY R A N C H | B LU F F DA L E I M AG E S B Y | P HO T O B Y J OY

The wedding was on October 14, 2017. A beautiful Fall day in the perfect setting. Shelby & her bridal party were very chill and relaxed. They sipped champagne in the bridal suite while getting ready.

There was an excited buzz in the air as vendors came in to prepare for the big day. Shelby’s style was different. The hoops the bridesmaids carried doubled as wall decor after the ceremony. I hung them up on the cedar posts inside for the reception portion of the evening.

Shelby’s wedding and style was the perfect example of making a ranch venue more versatile. It was less rustic and more chic. The colors she chose really pulled out the beautiful scenery of the venue.

The reception was just as fun as the Wedding! Between the pizza truck and donuts to the funny speeches at the end of the night, it all represented the couple well. It was a my joy and honor to help them create a day they would remember the rest of their lives. - J.P.

FEATURED WEDDING PROS VENUE THE N AT HARDWAY RANCH COORDINATOR J.P. MILLS PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOBY JOY CATERING CAVALLI PIZZA FLORAL BLUSHINGTON BLOOMS HAIR STYLING BY MACEY MAKEUP MATTIE MUA DJ B&A MEDIA TECH

KIMBERLY & SHANE

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We wanted the moment to be more personal between the two of us but then shared with our guest on our video. We also wanted our day to truly be

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Our wedding style was Southern Boho. The Southern part really

us so much time together and with our wedding party on our wedding day.

embodies who we are as people and a couple. We are from a small town

After we finished with pictures we were able to drink and hang out with our

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about spending time with each other and doing our first look at 1pm gave

and love to go dancing in the Fort Worth Stockyards. Our wedding was

wedding party until it was time for the ceremony. It also allowed us to use

located in a barn by the river with the groom and groomsmen wearing

both of the venue’s ceremony spaces, the wooden arch that overlooks the

boots and jeans. We ate BBQ, offered beer & wine, and danced to 90’s

river for our first look and the barn for the ceremony.

and Texas Country. There were plenty of cowboy hats to be seen and

I cannot give enough compliments to our venue and its owners. Choosing

Shane had a pizza for his groom’s cake. The Boho part really embodies

our venue truly made our wedding turn out so perfectly. The owners treated

my personal style and was reflected in the style of my dress, flowers

us like family and went above and beyond to make our day perfect. We

in my hair, decor accents, jewel tones, bridesmaids dresses, and floral

didn’t have to rent anything for the reception as they have all of the tables,

choices. We chose late November because I love fall weddings and

chairs, linens, chargers, and a ton of rustic decor that we were allowed to

wanted to be outdoors without the Texas heat. We are not formal people

use free of charge. The inside of the barn only holds 100 guests and we knew

and wanted our guests to really enjoy the evening. We love to go out

we would need more space (ended up with about 170 guests).

dancing in the Fort Worth Stockyards and wanted to bring that laid back, fun energy to our wedding.

The venue owners worked with us to come up with a floor plan that would allow us to fit all of our guests using the two covered porches on the sides

We did a first look for a couple of reasons; our wedding took place in

of the venue and adding smaller tables inside. The owners helped us plan

the late fall after daylight savings time so we only had sunlight until

the logistics of everything, listened to what I wanted, and provided their

5:30pm. We wanted to make sure we had plenty of time to get in the

suggestions on how to make it work. The barn’s location is absolutely

wedding party and family photos before the sun went down. Shane & I

stunning. The views of the river made for awesome photos and on the day

also wanted to read our own vows/letters to each other for our wedding

of my bridal portraits, one of the owners was on site to take us in an ATV

video but didn’t want to do so in front of all of our guests.

all across their property.

In addition to the barn, there is also a 4 bedroom house on the property that we were able to use all weekend. The pricing to rent the entire property for the weekend was less than what a lot of venues charge for a few hours. We had our rehearsal dinner at the house on site and I stayed there that evening with my bridesmaids which was such a fun and relaxing experience. Shane & I stayed in the house the night of our wedding as well. Having the house to use all weekend made the whole thing a stress-free experience. - Kimberly, the bride

FEATURED WEDDING PROS VENUE BARN ON THE BRAZOS COORDINATOR RACHEL DANLEY EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHY ASHTON BYRNE PHOTOGRAPHY GOWN LOVELY BRIDAL BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES SHOW ME YOUR MUMU VIDEOGRAPHY DANIELKA CATERER DNA BBQ CAKE MOM’S KITCHEN FLORAL MOSS FLORAL HAIR SARAH WALKER BRITTAIN MAKEUP LINDSEY FOWLER CEREMONY CHAIRS TAYLOR RENTALS DJ LE FORCE

BA R N O N T H E B R A Z O S | C L E BU R N E I M AG E S B Y | A SH T O N B Y R N E P HO T O G R A P H Y

STEPHANIE & CONNOR December 9, 2017

V E N U E | ST O N E B R I D G E W E D D I N G V E N U E , B LUM I M AG E S B Y | A M Y Z UM WA LT P HO T O G R A P H E R S

FEATURED WEDDING PROS VENUE STONEBRIDGE WEDDING VENUE GOWN WATTERS PHOTOGRAPHY AMY ZUMWALT PHOTOGRAPHERS CAKE FROSTED PERFECTIONS FLORALS LILIUM FLORALS HAIR & MAKEUP PRETTY ON PREMISES DJ FORERUNNER ENTERTAINMENT

SHELBY & TOMMY March 3, 2018

Shelby & Thomas’ wedding was so sweet and romantic! You can tell just from the way the look at each other that they are so in love. During their ceremony they asked for all the family to come up and pray with them, I love moments like that. They were so much fun to work with! Both of the families loved each other and it was if they had been family

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for forever. - Hannah Way Photography

FEATURED WEDDING PROS VENUE THISTLE SPRINGS RANCH PLANNER THE WHITE FIORE COORDINATOR WENDY HUNTER PHOTOGRAPHY HANNAH WAY PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY 2ME PRODUCTIONS CAKE CAKES BY KATHLEEN FLORAL UPSY DAISY DESIGNS HAIR ASHLEY ULATOSKI BARTENDER JC BARTENDING DJ ALL ACCESS DJ

T H I ST L E SP R I N G S R A N C H | C L E BU R N E I M AG E S B Y | HA N NA H WAY P HO T O G R A P H Y

Tommy and I met when we were 17 years old during our junior year of high school at a Relay For Life walk in Southlake, TX. We had a mutual friend who he went to school with and I went to church with at the event. T he three of us spent the evening walking around the track and talking. I of course thought Tommy was so cute and tall, but wouldn’t dare to let him know that at that time. He added me on facebook and we didn’t talk again. Fast forward to our senior year, we both decided we were going to go to Texas Tech University after graduation. Our mutual friend from Relay for Life suggested we all three hang out so that Tommy and I could “have a friend” at Tech. This is when our real friendship started. We spent a lot of time together our freshman year. Grocery shopping, watching teen mom

“Having all of the people we both love in one place to help us celebrate our love for each other was an unexplainable feeling.”

and driving to the middle of nowhere to look at the stars. Everyone around me told me Tommy was doing these things because he wanted to date, but love is blind and I insisted we were just friends…for the next 5 years. After graduating from TTU I went to grad school and Tommy moved back to Southlake for a job. I suddenly found myself wondering why we had been “just friends” for the last 5 years. During my Christmas break from grad school we were hanging out as just friends when Tommy conquered the friend zone. He kissed me under the stars in a pasture while we were feeding his horses, the same place he proposed to me 18 months later in the candle light under string lights and stars. Our wedding was magical with all of our friends and family surrounding us. Even my favorite president George W Bush was there to witness the beginning of our marriage, and end of the friend zone. -Shelby

V E N U E | O L D B I S O N R A N C H , F O R R E ST O N I M AG E S B Y | JA S O N & L AU R I E P HO T O G R A P H Y FEATURED WEDDING PROS VENUE OLD BISON RANCH PHOTOGRAPHY JASON & LAURIE PHOTOGRAPHY PLANNER BLISS EVENT MANAGEMENT GOWN DAVID’S BRIDAL CATERING D-SQUARED CATERING CAKE DOLLEES BAKING CO FLORALS EUBANKS HAIR & MAKEUP HOLLI ELAINE BEAUTY & CO DJ ALL ABOUT TONIGHT

HALEIGH & COLTON March 10, 2018

Our wedding was perfection, a dream come true! And we couldn’t have done it without our family, friends, and amazing vendors! When Colton purposed we were over the moon excited, then we got a little overwhelmed with all the decisions we had to make! We had a date picked and only 5 months to pull our wedding together! With the help of Melissa Shook and Southern Wedding Professionals we had a jump start. Melissa provided a vendor list we knew we could rely on. Growing up in Ellis County it was important to us to use local vendors and keep our wedding in the area. The theme had been decided, Classy Country Chic. We wanted an elegant look on a budget. When we connected with Susan Baker from Bliss Event Management, we knew we were in good hands. Susan have every little detail figured out from décor ideas to the day of timeline. On the big day my mom and myself truly got to enjoy the day knowing Susan and her team had everything under control.

The big day had finally arrived, and Old Bison Ranch did not disappoint! There was plenty of room for all our guests and then some! Having a March wedding could have gone in many directions, but we got lucky and had the outstanding weather for an outdoor wedding. Old Bison Ranch has a picturesque setting with the water behind us and the largest, most gorgeous tree to give us shade. Inside for the reception the vision of Classy Country Chic came to life, with soft lighting, some lace and mason jars, a classic cake by Doolee’s, a hint of sparkle, and all our favorite people we had done it! - Haleigh, bride

KAYLEE & JOE

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April 14, 2018

F I V E OA K S FA R M | C L E BU R N E I M AG E S B Y | SI LV E R B E A R C R E AT I V E

T heir wedding day design was exactly like the couple, natural and laid back! The bride, who normally doesn’t wear any makeup at all, went with a natural glowing look with gold tones and because it was so windy that day, they decided to do a soft braid adorned with greenery and flowers. It worked perfectly with the look of the wedding! The venue is natural and organic, soft and pretty and Kaylee went with colors that matched the venue. Whites, greens, soft pinks and succulents were the main colors but the crowning jewel was her lace dress that looked like it was made for her! The White Fiore planned it beautifully and the day was so special. The wind made the five oaks ceremony spot look magical, straight out of a fairy tale. And the perfect sunset made for fabulous romantic formals! Kaylee and Joe are just magic together and we were so thankful we got to be there to capture their day! - Allison, Silver Bear Creative

Joe and Kaylee are truly two of the kindest, most laid back people I have had the chance of meeting which made for the easiest and best day ever. Their day couldn’t have been filled with more love and joy. Joe and Kaylee have such a sweet love for each other and that love overflowed into the love they had for each guest in attendance. Joe literally couldn’t stop giving Kaylee the sweetest neck kisses evidence of the joy he had in marrying Kaylee. The dance floor was never empty and no one wanted the party stop! It was easily hands down one of the most fun, joy filled receptions I have ever seen. I’m sure Joe, Kaylee and their guests will never forget that gorgeous day! - Jessica, The White Fiore

FEATURED WEDDING PROS VENUE FIVE OAKS FARM PLANNER THE WHITE FIORE PHOTO/VIDEO SILVER BEAR CREATIVE CAKE HONEYLOVE CAKERY FLORAL ALBA DAHLIA FLORAL HAIR MARQUIE HIBLER WITH REDONDOS HAIR AND MAKEUP HAIR MELISSA TATE CATERING CHERRY ON TOP CATERING DJ BLAINE MITCHELL MUSIC

LAURA & JASON April 22, 2018

Laura & Jason tied the knot at Willow Creek Wedding and Events Venue in Waxahachie. Every part of this venue is so beautiful! The bridge, the creek, the field, all of it is absolutely gorgeous! We ALWAYS have to

FEATURED WEDDING PROS VENUE WILLOW CREEK PHOTOGRAPHY GINGERSNAP STUDIOS CAKE CAKE-AHOLICS FLORIST A & L FLORAL DESIGN HAIR & MAKEUP TEASE TO PLEASE DJ CADENCE STUDIOS

preface anything having to do with Laura and Jason with the fact that these two were both zoo keepers who met at the zoo! They worked on the same exhibits and quickly fell in love! Like what? How perfect is that?! We also just love that their dog, Aria, was the ring bearer. As we usually do, we began the day photographing all of Laura’s details. This is something that often gets overlooked but we think is so important. The morning was filled with lots of laughter as the bride and groom got ready for the big event! The ceremony was beautiful and vows were said with tears in their eyes. The event was sealed with a kiss and off they went! Then it was time to party! There were toasts, dances, and the most delicious cake. They concluded the night with a sparkler exit down the long white bridge. We were so honored to be their photographers and there is no doubt Jason and Laura will live happily ever after! - Amanda, Gingersnap Studios

V E N U E | W I L L OW C R E E K , WA X A HAC H I E I M AG E S B Y | G I N G E R SNA P ST U D IO S

V E N U E | L O ST OA K , BU R L E S O N I M AG E S B Y | KAT E PA N Z A P HO T O G R A P H Y

Austin and I love the outdoors, and Lost Oak Winery was a perfect fit for us. We got married in May and, being a winery, the grape vines were thriving around this time which gave us a beautiful backdrop. We always wanted to have an outdoor ceremony,

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and the venue had beautiful barn doors that perfectly framed us during our vows. The reception hall made us feel like we were still outdoors with tons of windows letting the natural light (and sunset) flood in. While planning our wedding I decided really early on that I wanted our day to be very personalized to us and also very fluid; I wanted it to feel very natural in the details. From the flower arch hung across the barn door arches, to a crown of flowers on my head, to bouquets that had lots of movement and drapery greenery, we tried to highlight the little things. Although it was a pretty warm day, we had cloud cover and a nice breeze for the entire duration of the ceremony which was such a blessing. The sun came back out minutes after the ceremony ended. We tried to make every decision intentionally in order to really highlight the two of us and our personalities. - Blythe, bride

BLYTHE & AUSTIN May 19, 2018

FEATURED WEDDING PROS VENUE LOST OAK WINERY GOWN PENCE AND PANACHE BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES AZAZIE PHOTOGRAPHY KATE PANZA PHOTOGRAPHY SUIT DESIGNER PRONTO BOMO SUIT STORE MEN’S WAREHOUSE TIE PAUL MALONE CATERER ROSCOE’S SMOKEHOUSE CAKE (COOKIE) BATTER UP BAKERY MINI PIES BUTTERMILK SKY PIE BOUQUETS 3D FLORAL DESIGN FLOWER ARCH/CROWN 3D FLORAL DESIGN BRIDESMAIDS MAC COUNTER BRIDE CLINIQUE COUNTER INVITATIONS MINTED DJ KAM HUNT RENTAL CAR UBER BLACK

V E N U E | B E L L A WO O D S , M I D L O T H IA N I M AG E S B Y | JA S O N & L AU R I E P HO T O G R A P H Y

FEATURED WEDDING PROS VENUE BELLA WOODS PHOTOGRAPHY JASON & LAURIE PHOTOGRAPHY PLANNER JENN-LYNN DESIGNS FLORALS THE ROGUE ROSE CATERER EDDIE DEAN’S (DALLAS) CAKE BITTERSWEET BAKERY RENTALS WRENS RELICS HAIR SWINK COLOR BAR (LAURA O’NEAL) MAKEUP ASHLEY WRIGHT SIGNS CHALK DESIGNS BY ME PHOTOBOOTH TEXAS PHOTO BOMB DJ TOTAL AUDIO & LIGHTING VIDEOGRAPHY ALLRED MEDIA

BRENNA & KENNETH June 16, 2018

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A BRIDAL SESSION CONFESSION A RT IC L E B Y | R E B E C C A C H E SN EY P HO T O & F I L M

What makes my little photography loving heart

and a half. You can choose the wedding venue or

go pitter patter? Bridal sessions.

even a different setting for variety!

They. Are.

Awesome.

emotional (in a good way!). A great majority of my brides choose a bridal

I’m not exaggerating in the least bit. But you

BONDING

session as part of their package. I don’t believe

may be asking. “Do I really need them?” “Aren’t I

Then there’s the bonding time that you get with

in pressuring any of my clients to do something

going to get photographs of myself on the actual

whoever you decide to bring with you. Usually it’s

they aren’t fully convinced of. However, once

wedding day?” All good questions I can assure

the mother of the bride, a sister, maid of honor,

they see a full bridal session gallery, 99% of the

you. However.... there are several reasons why

or a few close friends. Or you can bring a posse

time they choose it enthusiastically. They see

you will want to consider one.

of all of the previously mentioned! They will ooh

the magic in the them. An enlarged image or

and ahh the entire time. Laughter will ensue and

two is proudly displayed at the reception for the

UNRUSHED TIME

great memories are made. At the end of a bridal

groom and all the guests to enjoy. Your portraits

First, it’s unrushed, uninterrupted time to soak

session, I like to ask everyone to gather around

will become an heirloom. Your children and

in all the glory of yourself in a beautiful gown.

the bride for a group photo. It’s all part of the

future generations will remember you by them.

This magnificent dress was made to be savored.

beautiful season of life you are currently in and

Why not take the time to give them something

Wedding days are very hectic and often times

every part of it needs to be captured.

extraordinary?

a photographer has a limited amount of time to capture the bride by herself without an aunt,

MAGIC

bridesmaid, or uncle in the background. Bridal

And last but not least, there’s the product. A

sessions are a time where a photographer can get

gorgeous gallery of images. They should be

creative and capture all the beauty and elegance

nothing short of magical. In my opinion, a good

of a bride. The day can be chosen and scheduled,

portrait should show the essence of a person.

so you aren’t dependent on whatever the weather

Their unique self. Every person has a beauty

may be on the actual wedding day. And it’s a

to unveil and it is my job to capture it. It is not

great time for a run through with hair and make-

uncommon for brides to text me after I deliver

up! Bridal sessions typically last an hour to hour

their images to tell me their portraits made them

"It is not uncommon for b deliver their images to tell them emotional (in a good w

REBECCA’S BIO HER ST YLE T he re is i nc re d ibl e v ar i e t y i n t he l ands c ap e s of t he D a l l as /Ft . Wor t h are a and R eb e c c a C he s ne y e nj oys s e arch i ng e ve r y b e aut i f u l c or ne r for t hat p e r fe c t b a ckd rop. Whe t he r you are l o ok i ng for more of an i ndust r i a l s e tt i ng or an op e n f i el d b at he d i n t he l i g ht and c ol or of su ns e t , R eb e c c a w i l l f i nd you r sp ot and prov i d e you w it h t ho s e t i mel e ss i mage s you d e s i re. He r abi l it y to ut i l i z e e ve r y d rop of natu ra l l i g ht and me t i c u l ously p e r fe c t you r photo s i n p o st pro du c t i on is w hat has ma d e R eb e c c a C he s ne y one of t he pre mi e re we d d i ng and p or t rait photo g raphe rs i n D a l l as and E l l is C ou nt y.

I N S TAG R A M @ R E B E C C AC H E SN EY _ P HO T OA N D F I L M

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r brides to text me after I tell me their portraits made d way!)." SOU T H E R NWE DDI NG PRO S . C OM

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I NSPI R AT ION

L OV E S T R U C K & G L A M A L O O K BAC K AT S OU T H E R N W E D D I N G P R O F E S SIO NA L’ S F I R S T S T Y L E D SHO O T.

Thi s lovest r u ck and g l am we d d ing inspire d sho ot at B el l a Wo o ds in Mid l ot h i an is g l ow ing w it h b e aut i f u l and int r ic ate det ai ls. The col ors a l one c an k no ck you r s o cks of f. When I s et out to c o ord inate S out he r n We d d i ng Profess iona l’s f irst st y l e d sho ot , I went w it h t he pro s at G old D ust Event C o. R a chel and Meg an tu r ne d t h is sho ot into a d re am c ome t r u e. Ever yone e xc e e d e d my exp e c t at ions and I c annot t han k t hem a l l enou g h for a l l t heir hard work and t a l ent s. - Mel iss a Sho ok, S out he r n We dding Professiona ls

VENUE BELLA WOODS

PHOTOGRAPHER RACHEL ELAINE PHOTOGRAPHY FLORALS VELLA NEST FLORAL VIDEOGRAPHY TAKE 4 FILMS STATIONERY THE INVITING INK VELVET SIGN IN BOOK CLAIREMAGNOLIA CALLIGRAPHY PROPER LETTER CO. HAIR & MAKEUP WZ BEAUTY BRIDAL + BRIDESMAID SHOP DE MA FILLE BRIDAL DRESS DESIGNER HAYLEY PAIGE TABLETOP TOP TIER EVENT RENTALS LINENS/TABLETOP BBJ LINEN SALADS/APPETIZERS OLIVER’S FINE FOODS BRIDAL ROBE FLORA NIKROOZ BRIDAL JEWELRY H AUTE BRIDE MODELS LANA, CHRISTIAN & KATIE

SOU T H E R NWE DDI NG PRO S . C OM

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STYLING, PLANNING & RENTALS GOLD DUST EVENT CO

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FEATURED WEDDING PROS

R ich hues and lush textu res of velvet were simply stu n n i ng at t h is lu x u r i ous f a l l we dding at B el l a Wo o ds. The br id e and g ro om’s f ai r yt a l e romanc e b egan in Ne w York C it y du r ing t he f a l l and t he c r isp b ol d c ol ors of j a d e, plum, magent a, p e a ch and amb er inspire d t hem for t he i r we d d i ng d ay. T he colors were exqu isite t h rou g hout t he c eremony and re c e pt i on i n t he f l ora ls , linens , fo o d and d e cor. Gu est s enj oye d d inner and c o ckt ai ls d e s i g ne d for t he s e as on p aire d w it h f ig and p omeg r anate g ar n ishe s . As t he autu mn su n b egan to s et, t he br id e and g ro om ma d e t heir g rand e x it for t he f i rst t i me

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as husb and and w ife. -G ol d D ust Event C o.

WOR K SHOP

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“EV E R SI N C E I S TA RT E D M Y F L O R A L J O U R N EY 5 Y E A R S AG O I D R E A M E D O F HO S T I N G M Y OW N F L O R A L WO R K SHO P.”

A Floral Workshop- Mother's Day Edition “EV E R SI N C E I STA RT E D M Y F L O R A L J O U R N EY 5 Y E A R S AG O I D R E A M E D O F HO S T I N G M Y OW N F L O R A L WO R K SHO P S O I C OU L D T E AC H P E O P L E HOW T O BU I L D S OM E T H I N G B E AU T I F U L I N T H E I R OW N HOM E . M A N Y T H I N K T HAT F L OW E R S A R E SU C H A DAU N T I N G TA SK T O A R R A N G E BU T I T J U S T TA K E S G U I DA N C E A N D P R AC T IC E . I WA N T E D T O C R E AT E A N E N V I R O N M E N T W H E R E I T C O U L D B E F R E E F L OW I N G A N D F U N B Y A D D I N G I N Y UM M Y T R E AT S A N D W I N E T O T H E M I X . I T M A D E F O R A N A M A Z I N G G I R L S N IG H T O R I N T H I S C A SE “M OM’ S N IG H T ! I D E F I N I T E LY P L A N T O HO S T M A N Y M O R E I N T H E U P C OM I N G M O N T H S ! ” - R AC H E L , A L BA DA L IA F L O R A L

PHOTO G R A PH Y | L IL IA NA PHOTO G R A PH Y

LO C ATION | BLEU LUX URY R ENTALS

C ATER ING | D -S QUAR ED CAT E R I NG

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"We wanted to speak to the brides out

there who aren't

afraid to play with

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shapes and colors"

MODERN RUSTIC IMAGES B Y | MAC KA PHOTO G R A PHY For this styled shoot, we wanted to have fun playing with different geometric shapes while also incorporating delicate details. From the gorgeous custom honeycomb wall, fun geometric invitation suite and elegant hairpiece details, we wanted to speak to the brides out there who aren’t afraid to play with shapes and colors, but also desire to keep a classic feel to their wedding! Rentals from Sugar Creek Vintage Rentals gave us the most beautiful backdrop for the ceremony, and paper suite from Brown Fox Creative helped play up the geometric pieces. Something You Makeup and Hair gave our model a classic braid and natural makeup to speak to the classic side of brides, while Kate McLeod delivered elegant and simple floral elements to our shoot! - Ashlee, Treasured Hearts Events

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FEATURED WEDDING PROS VENUE THISTLE SPRINGS RANCH PLANNER TREASURED HEARTS EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHY MACKA PHOTOGRAPHY BRIDAL GOWN DE MA FILLE FLORAL KATE MCLEOD STUDIO STATIONERY BROWN FOX CREATIVE HAIR & MAKEUP SOMETHING YOU RENTALS SUGAR CREEK VINTAGE RENTALS

Submit your wedding and get featured!

Advertise with us!

Want to get in front of real brides across the metroplex? Southern Wedding Professionals offers a great way to been seen. Get featured online, in print, and/or participate in our bridal shows. Network with other wedding professionals at our monthly vendor only socials and collaborate with us in our styled shoots and workshops. Southern Wedding Professionals’ goal is to promote the wedding industry south of DFW.

EMAIL || melissa@southernweddingpros.com

We have two campaigns for you to choose from for our online advertising. The Basic Campaign will list your business name and logo with a direct link to your website. The Featured Campaign will list your business name and logo on the top of the page and will include your own page on SOWP’s website. Your page will include your headshot or logo, 6 images that best represent your business, a direct link to your website, a brief description of your business, social media links any blog posts that were published on our website. YOU CAN NOW START COLLECTING REVIEWS!

southernweddingpros

sweddingpros

southernweddingpros

@CATI E ANN PH OTO

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Meet our

WEDDING PROFESSIONALS

V E ND OR

Bartender —

DF W BA RT E N D I N G 6 8 2 - 2 32 - 4 308 @ D F W BA RTE N DI NG W W W. D F W BA RT ENDI NG .CO M

G U I DE

YOUR D J 214-724-3535 @YOUR DJ_GUS WWW. YOUR DJONL INE. COM

Florals —

Photobooth —

JUST FOR GRINS 972-754-3423 @JUSTGRINSPHOTOBOOTH WWW.JUS TGR INS PHOTOB OOT H. C OM

AL BA DAHLIA FLORAL P RE M I E R E V EN T S & STA FFI N G

469-8 35-9399

6 8 2 - 9 9 0- 8 58 5

@AL BADAHL IAFL OR AL

@ P RE MI E RE V ENT SANDSTAF F I NG

WWW. AL BADAHL IAFL OR AL . COM

W W W. PRE MIE RE VENTS A NDS TA FFING.COM

F R E S H F L OW E R S

Cakes & Treats

& G AT H E R I NG S 972-935-3478

—

@FR ES HFL OWER S ANDGATHER INGS

M O M ’ S KI T C H EN

WWW. FR ES HATVIL L AFL OR A. COM

8 1 7 - 506 - 1 2 9 0 @ MO MSK I TC H ENBAKE S

PE ONI E S

W W W. MO MSK IT CH ENBAKES.COM

8 17-20 2-728 4 @PEONIES . 18

Catering

—

ANM PHOTOG RAPHY 940 -595-0 499 @ANM_PHOTO WWW. ANMPHOTO. COM JASON AND L AURIE PHOTOG RAPHY 214-497-28 61 @JAS ONANDL AUR IE WWW. JAS ONANDL AU R IE. C OM K HAPTURE PHOTOGR APH Y

T E D E ’ S CAT E RI N G

Invitations & Calligraphy

817-494-7720

AL EXAND RA EM

CATE RI N G @ T EDESKI T CH E N.CO M

@BYAL EXANDR AEM

—

Photography & Videography

—

WWW. AL EXANDR AEM. COM

Entertainment

B ROWN FOX CREATIVE

—

68 2-20 7-270 1

A L L T H I N G S ELEGA N T

@BROWNFOXCR EATIVE

E N T E RTA IN M EN T

WWW. BROWNFOXCR EATIVE. COM

& D ESIG N 713-58 4-8 762 @KHAPTUR EPHOTOG R A P H Y WWW. KHAPTUR EL IFE. C OM MONICA SAL AZAR PHOTOG RAPHY 972-8 8 0 -0 715 @MONICAS AL AZAR P H OTOGR A P H Y WWW. MONICA-S AL AZA R . C OM

4 6 9 - 8 6 5 - 031 0 @ A L LT H I N G SE L E G ANT E NT E RTAI NM ENT

MK EVENTS

W W W. AL LTH ING SELEGA NTENTERTA INMENT.COM

8 17-946-9646 @MKEVENTS TX

B E E N T E RTA I N ED

WWW. MKEVENTS TX. COM

OSB URN VID EO 559-916-9365 @OS B UR NVIDEOGR A P H Y WWW. OS B UR NVIDEO. C OM

EVENTS 8 1 7 - 8 9 2 - 554 2 @ BE E N TE RTA I N EDE V E NT S W W W. DAL L ASF ORTWORTHWEDDINGDJS .COM

REB ECCA CHESNEY PH OTO & FIL M

Jewelry —

CAV E S J E W E L RY I NC B U S T A M OV E

972-230 -0 950

972-281-9229

@CAVES JEWEL RYINC

@ B U S TA MOV E D J SERV I CE S

WWWCAVES JEWEL RYINC . COM

W W W. B U STA M OV EDJ SE RV I CE .CO M

214-727-6967 @R EBECCACHES NEY_ P H OTOA N D FIL M WWW. R EB ECCACH ESN EY P H OTOA N DFI L M . C O M

SAB EL MOMENTS 90 3-754-18 75 @S ABEL MOMENTS WWW. S ABEL MOMEN T S . C OM

V E ND OR

G U I DE

THE N AT HARDWAY R AN C H

Rentals

8 17-776-3730

—

@THENATHAR DWAYR A N C H

B L E U L U X U RY EVEN T REN TA LS

WWW. THENATHA R DWAYR A N C H . C OM

8 1 7 - 8 6 2 - 9 02 0 @ BL E U L U XU RY RENTALS

THISTLE SPRIN GS R AN C H

W W W. BL E U L UX URY RENTALS.COM

8 17-8 51-9317 @THIS TL ES PR IN GS R A N C H

B E S P O KE RE NTA LS

WWW. THIS TL ES P R IN GS R A N C H . C OM

4 6 9 - 7 6 5 - 5 9 37 @ BE S P O K E S E T T I NGS

WHITE ROCK R AN C H

W W W. E TSY. C O M/S HOP /BES P OKES ETTINGS .COM

214-949-2269 @WHITEROCKRA N C H VEN U E

E V E N T S B Y REN TA L SO LUT I O N S

WWW. WHITE-ROC KR A N C H . C OM

9 03- 6 5 4 - 9 2 7 2 @ RE N TA L S O L UT I O NS

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W W W. TRU LY E W ERSE V E NT S.COM

WIND ING BROOK S TRULY EW ERS EVENTS

972-8 75-18 8 1

40 7-968 -7311

@WINDINGBROOKS VEN U E

W I L DB L U

@TRULYEWER S

WWW. WINDING B ROOKS . C OM

2 1 4 - 2 1 5 - 2 2 02

WWW. TRULYEWER S EVENTS . COM

@ I N TOT H E W I LDB LU W W W. IN TOT H EW I LDB LU.COM

Venues —

B L AINE STONE L OD G E S U G A R C R E E K VI N TAGE REN TA LS

972-752-2229

8 1 7 - 8 2 3- 7 002

@BL AINES TONEL ODGE

@ S U G A RC RE E KV I NTAGE RENTALS

WWW. BL AINES TONEL ODGE. COM

W W W. SU GARC REEKVINTAGERENTA LS .COM

FIREFLY G ARD ENS

Planning —

214-399-5129 @FIR EFLYGAR DENS WWW. FIR EFLYGAR DENS VENUE. COM

B E I N T H E M OM EN T EVEN T S 8 1 7 - 8 9 1 - 37 1 2

FIVE OAK S FARM

@ BI T E V E N TS

8 17-20 2-8 28 2

W W W. BE I N T H E M OM E NT E V E NT S.COM

@FIVEOAKS FAR M WWW. FIVEOAKS VENUE. COM

MK EVENTS 817-946-9646

L OST OAK WINERY

@ MK E V E N TST X

8 17-426-6625

W W W. MK E V E NT ST X .COM

@L OS TOAKWINERY WWW. L OS TOAKWINERY. COM

S E R E N DI P I T Y EVEN T S BY T I NA 8 1 7 - 59 3- 332 5

MID LOTHIAN CONFERENCE CENTER

@ S E RE N D I P I T Y_ E V E NT S_ B Y _ T I NA

972-775-7125

W W W. SE RE ND IP ITYEVENTS BYTINA .COM

WWW. MIDL OTHIANCENTER . COM

S O U T H E R N H OUSEWI VES P LA N N I N G

STONEBRID G E WED D ING VENUE

6 8 2 - 4 2 9 - 32 8 6

8 17-774-6248

@ S O U TH E RN H O USEW I V ESPLANNI NG

@S TONEBR IDGEWEDDINGVENUE

W W W. SO U TH E RNHOUS EWIVES P LA NNING.ORG

WWW. STO N EB R ID GEWED D IN GVEN U E. CO M

IMAGE S B Y @L O RILYNNP HOTOGRA P HY

LET ’S

G ET

S O C IA L

NETWORKING YOU R W E D D I N G P R O S WO R K I N G O N BU I L D I N G A G R E AT W E D D I N G I N DU S T RY # S O U T HO F D F W

The Southern Social Issue 1

Articles inside

Paige & Alex | Real Wedding

Uncommon Beauty