Hotel Carmichael is a beautiful boutique hotel located in the heart of Carmel, IN. Our expert wedding coordinators will help you achieve the wedding of your dreams from the second you step onto the property to when you're walking down the aisle
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It’s a beautiful summer day or perhaps a chilly winter evening. Your significant other has dashed you away and astonished you by creating an epic day, ending with a picturesque dinner for two. Next thing you know, you look over and they are down on one knee. OMG! It’s happening!
Assuming you said yes, keep reading.
Fast-forward a day or two. The dust of excitement has settled and you are both struck with the reality of having to plan the biggest day of your life. It might seem daunting and maybe a little stressful, but rest assured that it will all work out in the end.
When planning a wedding, all decisions are big decisions, but there are a few that might stand taller than others. This quick, three-step guide will offer you some advice on making your day as special and as memorable as it can be.
There is something every wedding needs - a location. This can be a difficult decision based on where families are located, how many people will be in attendance, the vibe you are going for, etcetera. If you decide you want to have your wedding take place here in the Indianapolis area, there are a lot of amazing locations available to you including the Indianapolis Art Center, the Conservatory at Evergreen, Tinker House Events, Guggman Haus Brewing Co., the Neidhammer, Liter House, and The Westin, to name just a few. The venue you select should boil down to answering one question. Is it you? All wedding venues near and far have unique offerings, and it should be a place that is special to you and your future partner. The benefit of any wedding venue is the ability for you to put your own decorative spin on it, but most importantly, it should be a location where you can see yourself standing when you share that first kiss.
Perhaps one of the most important parts of any wedding is the DJ. Let’s
be honest - you are throwing a party, and a DJ is an integral part of the flow of a wedding. Introductions, speeches and music selections can be a delicate game that requires on-the-fly flexibility and talent. Hiring a skilled DJ that not only matches your personality and style, but also has the experience and ability to be the maestro for the evening, is something to consider when you begin your search. Be sure to discuss your requests and be open to feedback.
Hopefully you will only be getting married once and it is important to preserve the moments of your special day, for not only yourselves, but also for future generations that will one day look back and say, “Is that you?” Finding a photographer and/or videographer is all about style and personality. There are a lot of photographers and videographers out there, and again, it boils down to finding professionals you are confident and comfortable with. Keep in mind that the face you will see, even more than your future partner, will likely be your photographer. They will arrive in the morning and be with you until the end. Perhaps your photographer was referred to you, maybe you have followed their work for years and know you want them documenting your day, or perhaps you have scoured the internet diving into social media accounts and have uncovered the perfect documentarian. No matter how you get there, meet with your photographer and videographer. Talk about your expectations, and if you can, book an engagement session with them, which will offer great insight on what it will be like to have that person by your side for the duration of your wedding day.
Obviously there is much more that goes into planning a wedding, from big decisions to small details. Don’t forget, it is the first day in a long journey. Things may not always go exactly as planned so don’t sweat the little things, and remember that the most important decision was made before all this began - and they will be standing in front of you when you say, “I do.”
If you are looking to host a wedding in our area, reach out to us and we’d be happy to answer questions or help you with your decisions. You can contact us on Instagram and Facebook @thisisnorthindy, or you can email our publisher, Michael Durr, at michael.durr@gmail.com.
Eddie Sahm isn’t slowing down. Sahm, a well-known personality on the Indianapolis food and beverage scene, is excited about the continued expansion and development of the catering and events side of his business, especially weddings.
“I absolutely did not see Liter House turning into a wedding venue,” Sahm says. “I wanted to bring German food to life in a brewpub setting. We did that for a couple years and I think we were one of the most unique restaurant destinations around.”
COVID-19 had other plans for Sahm’s restaurant concept, as it did for so many others, and his team realized that operating two restaurants side by side was not going to be in the cards for long. Transitioning part of the space into an event venue began in April of 2020, and Liter House hosted its first wedding in late June of 2020.
Now, the large building on Winthrop Avenue houses two concepts - Half Liter BBQ, the popular brewpub serving Texas-style barbecue and craft beers, and Liter House, the catering and event space that can host events from 20 to 200 people.
In 2022 Liter House hosted more than 28 rehearsal dinners and more than 25 weddings, all of which Sahm took in stride.
“We have been catering at Sahm’s for 30-plus years,” he says. “I have hosted jobs of two people to 20,000 people. Weddings are easy if
Writer / Natalie Platt Photographer / Kayley Hackney @ivoryfilmcoyou plan right, and we take a lot of pride in our planning and execution.”
The longtime catering business has been a local favorite for years, and certainly helps draw attention to one of Sahm’s newer concepts, but he thinks Liter House’s location helps with the success.
“I think the area around us is as important as the inside, in terms of why we’re a great venue,” Sahm says. “We are in an amazing location with local artwork, awesome neighborhoods, and things to do before and after the wedding. Inside is also beautiful. We have 25’ barrel ceilings, tons of natural light and one of the most beautiful bars in Indiana.”
Liter House offers several configurations that cater to different sizes of weddings and events. Liter Room is flanked with dark wooden accents and industrial details that make it a trendy and warm space in the heart of Broad Ripple. The large room can be arranged several ways, from weddings to cocktail hours, with a max capacity of 200 people. Weddings have a capacity of 150 people, while banquet-style
events top out at 175 people.
For more intimate settings, guests can host an event in the Winthrop Room. With a capacity of 42 people, this room is perfect for smaller gatherings like birthdays, corporate meetings and holiday dinners. The room has plenty of natural light thanks to large windows lining the length of the room, and guests are encouraged to bring their own decorations.
As far as catering goes, guests have taken advantage of having Half Liter BBQ right next door, but still tend to select traditional options for dinner.
“We definitely do a lot of barbecue,” Sahm says. “Part of that is because it is a very affordable option and we try to be a budgetfriendly location just as much as an upscale location. However, most of our weddings go for a traditional steak, chicken and seafooddriven buffet. Some couples have even worked with me on making a special, personalized menu for their day.”
Sahm notes that Liter house has 28 weddings
scheduled for 2023 already. January and February are relatively open, with the schedule filling up starting in March. “We have plenty of dates left, but as we host more events, we have been noticing the word getting out and the inquiries have been taking off,” Sahm says.
Liter House also hosts the SoBro Farmers Market in the event space every Wednesday from December 14 until March 22. The market runs from 4:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m., with the bar and kitchen open for everyone to enjoy after shopping.
“I love what Matt Byington, who started the market, and all the market vendors, stand for and always have,” Sahm says. “As much as I am a salesman, I also want to try to help connect people to great, local food however I can. This is just another opportunity to do so.”
Liter House is located at 5301 Winthrop Avenue in Indianapolis. You can visit them online at halfliterbbq.com, or at Instagram @ halfliter_bbq. You can find additional catering details at sahmscateringcompany.com.
Finding something to wear to a formal event like a wedding is sometimes daunting. Formal, semiformal and black tie each have different meanings in terms of clothing. That’s where Newman & Co. can help. The high-end men’s consignment boutique specializes in men’s clothing and accessories, from designer lines to casual, everyday wear.
“My parents, Jeff and Amanda Newman, purchased the store in 2008, and then several years ago we changed the name to Newman & Co.,” says Manager Wyatt Newman. “We have another consignment store in Carmel called Amanda’s Exchange that has been in business for 20 years.”
Newman says both stores are truly family owned and operated, and they pride themselves on treating customers like family. Newman says
customers can come in and receive a personalized shopping experience.
“We can help, whether a customer is looking for day-to-day pieces to wear, workwear or even formal wear,” Newman says. “If a customer comes in looking for something to wear to a special event like a wedding, we can help them determine if a suit or a tuxedo, or something in between, is appropriate.”
Newman says the staff will measure the customer to ensure the perfect fit, and assist them in finding something that works for the event and suits their individual style. He says the staff at Newman & Co. are not only knowledgeable, but also love helping clients find the perfect outfit.
The consignment store prides itself on being a one-stop shop for all things related to men’s clothing and accessories. Newman says the staff can also help customers find the perfect belt, hat or shoes to add flair to an outfit.
“We try to help you find something that you’re going to look great in, but also be comfortable wearing,” he says. “Let’s be honest.
If you find a great jacket but take it off once you’re at the dinner table, then it’s not worth it. We’re never going to try and sell you something you’re not going to feel comfortable in.”
Newman & Co. only accepts pieces of the highest quality, which sets them apart from many other consignment stores. They only buy items in excellent condition, currently in style, and from smoke-free homes.
“With us being a consignment store, everything we accept is like a one-of-a-kind piece for our customers,” Newman says. “Many of our regulars come in frequently to see the new items we have because we receive new items daily. It’s a great way for people to get exposure to different designers. It’s almost like a new store every day.”
Newman says many of the formal pieces they receive have only been worn a few times. Typically they’re from high-end designers, which means a high-quality item at a lower price point.
Don’t expect to find vintage pieces at Newman & Co. Newman says there are a lot of great vintage stores in Indianapolis, so they leave that to the experts. The team members want to provide a regular
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“WE TRY TO HELP YOU FIND SOMETHING THAT YOU’RE GOING TO LOOK GREAT IN, BUT ALSO BE COMFORTABLE WEARING.”
retail shopping experience, without the pressure of a salesperson.
Newman says the benefits of purchasing consignment items go beyond just cost. He says buying resale items promotes sustainability, noting that clothing is just as important as recycling goods.
Newman says they love catering to wedding parties, not just wedding guests. He says they can assist the groom and groom’s party in choosing formal wear. All potential clients need to do is make an appointment by contacting the store.
“In the past we’ve had fitting parties where the groom can come in after hours with his groomsmen, the father of the groom and father of the bride,” Newman says. “We can have snacks and drinks, and have a fitting party. It makes it super easy for them.”
Newman says their clientele varies in age, and the staff tries to keep that in mind when accepting items. They try to accept a wide range of sizes even though items are unique and somewhat one of a kind. He says people’s attitudes toward purchasing consignment items has changed tremendously throughout the years.
The Newman family loves serving customers around Indianapolis through Newman & Co. and Amanda’s Exchange. Newman & Co. is located in the heart of Broad Ripple at 722 East 65th Street. For more information, call 317-253-2533 or visit newmanco.shop.
Many brides and grooms might find it daunting when tasked with finding a wedding photographer. Having captured many weddings myself and having the experience of finding a wedding photographer to capture our own wedding, I wanted to provide some tips on what to look for when you begin your search.
One of the most important things when looking for a wedding photographer is finding a style that you like. All photographers bring a certain look to their work, and you want to be sure that your expectation matches the style of your photographer. You can look at a photographer’s Instagram account, but I would advise going a step further and browsing their website to really get a sense of the style of photography they provide. A word-of-mouth referral also goes a long way. If you know someone that hired that photographer, don’t be shy about asking how their experience was.
If possible, I recommend meeting your photographer in person or via FaceTime if in person is not possible. It is likely that the person you will spend the most time with on your wedding day will be your lead photographer - even more so than your future spouse.
are someone with whom you’re comfortable. During this meeting you should get a clear understanding of costs and what is included with the fees. You will also want to ask if there will be a second photographer. A second photographer will cost more but it offers an incredible value. If you are someone that likes creative angles, candid moments and incredible portraits, a second photographer is well worth it. Some look at it as an added insurance policy, so no moments are missed. There is no doubt that wedding budgets can be tight but investing in a good photographer will pay dividends for years to come. After the day is over, the images will tell the story of your wedding forever.
Not all couples want to have an engagement session, but if you are considering it, I would give you two thumbs up on making that happen. This will give you the opportunity to tryout your photographer. It provides a firsthand experience of how they work and how they interact with you and your fiancé. It is a great way spot any red flags and at the same time, provides you with some great images that can be used for a save the date, signature album or prints. It is also that first step in really creating a relationship with your photographer.
Once you have officially booked your photographer you will want to schedule a follow up meeting or conversation about the wedding day itself. The flow of the day can be challenging to plan, but your photographer’s opinions and recommendations are crucial. They will know how long certain things will take, like family photos or couples’ portraits. They will be able to spot any unrealistic time constraints and will be able to help alleviate some of that pressure that can build up on the wedding day. Having a photographer that is flexible and understanding is important and by this point, you know they have your best interest at heart.
When the day finally arrives, your photographer will be the one to be sure you have the memories that will last a lifetime. The day goes fast and trusting your photographer to deliver on the expectations you set should make you feel at ease. Power down that cell phone and let the pros handle it. Your main objective on your wedding day is to slow down and enjoy it.
Remember not to sweat the images. Your first inclination will be to see the images immediately, but I encourage you to take the honeymoon, relax and enjoy your first weeks of marriage. The photos will come, and it is likely your wedding photographer captured thousands of images. Trust them to curate and process those images for you. Remember, that’s what they do, and you paid them for their style and their vision. They will deliver, and even if it takes some time to get the digital album, it will absolutely be worth it. My wife and I made a pact that we would not look at the images until we were sitting together. We even hooked up the laptop to the TV, popped a bottle of champagne and scrolled though all the images together. It was a special evening seeing them all for the first time.
Finally, print your images! These days we may not think of print as important but taking the time to either work with your photographer in creating a printed album or taking the time to create your own is worth it. Having a tangible asset to keep on the shelf and pass down to the next generation is something your children and grandchildren will love to hold and thumb through someday.
All the images captured in this article were taken by Jessica Strickland. Being a professional photographer myself, I knew exactly what I was looking for and my now-wife had been
following Jessica’s work for years (truthfully, we based our wedding date around her availability because we were so excited to work with her). Jessica delivered on every level, even going far above our expectations. She and her assistant were an absolute pleasure to be around, and we have remained friends to this day.
You can check out Jessica’s work at jessicastrickland.com, on Instagram at @jessicastricklandphotography or you can email her at info@jessicastrickland.com for more information and availability.
The Indy Art Center offers a uniquely intimate backdrop to those searching for imaginative weddings, extravagant celebrations, and fanciful receptions, large or small. Explore our building’s renowned Michael Graves design, delve into our galleries, and wander through our lush ArtsPark for an unforgettable night.
Eagle Creek and the Eagle Creek Dam, you would never know this venue exists just a short drive off Interstate 74 on the west side of town.
Debbie Hasbrook, the owner of Hotel Broad Ripple, purchased the property from the Kernel family in April of 2018. The 23-acre property was home to the Kernels for more than 100 years. The property went on the market as a two-bedroom, one-bath house off of 34th Street for nearly $750,000. The property featured a log home, rental home, guest cabin with a garage, separate mechanic garage, indoor and outdoor owner-operated dog day care, artesian well, three-acre stocked pond, and fish hatchery.
“We knew we could do something amazing here and didn’t want the land to be developed into just another apartment complex,” says David DePrez, Hasbrook’s son.
They have done something inspired with the property while respecting the land around it, and it’s just the beginning.
bedroom cabin lies to the north, and just over the ridge on the west side flows Eagle Creek. Parking and an additional cabin lay to the southeast of the property, which is conveniently hidden by the kitchen and other building amenities.
The Conservatory and grounds occupy the secluded property on 34th Street. The space offers a drive-up to the stunning entrance, bordered by industrial iron columns and softened by beautiful landscaping. A portico features a glass ceiling, so visitors can enter the property and admire the skies above while being protected from the elements.
Once inside, you can admire the whole property to the left, and a variety of service and amenity spaces to the right. A coat check with a custom, wooden Dutch door offers a space for visitors to check their items. Two ample restrooms with beautiful, custom concrete countertops and stained-wood stall doors are just down the hall. There’s also an impressive catering kitchen outfitted with garage doors for bringing in large items, fridges, three-bay sinks and
wedding couples, or bouquet tosses.
The open space is ready to be transformed into the reception of your dreams. “Many brides have discussed separating the space with black-and-white, checkered dance floors, large area rugs and a variety of seating,” DePrez says. “The options are endless.” While the space is surrounded by glass windows that embrace nature, the entire ridge of the roof can be opened for clear views of the sky. Large French doors line the east wall leading out to the deck for additional seating on the pond.
A short walk up the hill from the Conservatory is a log home, the Cabin, built in 1930. Rumor has it that the space used to serve as an underground casino. Visitors will be greeted by a massive stone fireplace, plenty of open space for wedding parties, one large master bedroom that is perfect for getting ready, one smaller bedroom, a
“WE KNEW WE COULD DO SOMETHING AMAZING HERE AND DIDN’T WANT THE LAND TO BE DEVELOPED INTO JUST ANOTHER APARTMENT COMPLEX"
- DAVID DEPREZ -
quaint bathroom, and a cozy kitchen with sweet touches like a built-in window seat. Just on the other side of the stone fireplace is a screened-in porch overlooking the pond and an old fish hatchery. Overstuffed, vintage rattan couches and a cozy atmosphere make it a perfect place to relax before a ceremony.
Across from the Cabin is a small building, previously used for a dog day care. It will eventually be transformed into another space for guests, and has massive windows overlooking Eagle Creek streams.
Near the entrance of the property is another modest, twobedroom bungalow home. The space has been transformed into the perfect place for a bridal party to get ready. The living space offers sleek, modern white couches, while the previous dining space has been transformed with makeup mirrors, tons of table space and full mirrors. The space offers an additional private room for brides, as well as a small guest room that is perfect for resting throughout the day. The kitchen offers visitors a place for coffee, sink space, and a fridge perfect for holding snacks and libations for a bridal party to enjoy before their ceremony.
Next door is an additional guest cabin with a garage and separate mechanic garage. This, for now, serves as a beautiful photo backdrop with a forest-green, wood-clad exterior and giant carriage doors. The staff members hope to eventually restore this area for additional event space.
The Conservatory will serve as a year-round facility, and officially opens in March of 2023. However, they already have more than two dozen events booked. In the spring, the grounds will be covered in lush greenery, creeping thyme and blooming cottonwood trees. In the fall, the foliage will beam with orange and red from the maple trees. In the winter, the frozen pond will glisten amongst the evergreens. No matter what time of year you book, the Conservatory at Evergreen will serve as the picture-perfect backdrop for your special occasion.
The Conservatory at Evergreen is located at 8140 West 34th Street in Indianapolis. For more info including event pricing, call 317-787-2665 or visit evergreenindy.com.
Visit us at 46th & College Ave or www.indyuh.com Find us on instagram + facebook! @urbanhippieindy
Casual boho style with a bit of funky flare!
Between Google searches, wedding websites and Instagram posts – it’s overwhelming as you sift through different options in hopes of finding the right wedding vendors.
“I had no idea where to find a videographer,” is a common phrase we hear when meeting with couples and potential clients.
As if that pressure of being inundated with several options isn’t enough, picking your videographer may very well be the most important decision you make when adding to your wedding vendor team. A wedding video is the best way to relive your wedding day years down the road but finding the right videographer for you is crucial to that.
Despite the similarities, it’s a bit more complicated than choosing a photographer.
With photography, you can determine if someone’s style fits your vision by perusing their Instagram feed. With videography, though, it takes a few films to truly get a sense of the videographer’s style and their potential compatibility.
We understand how daunting this process can be. We’re Jared and Sarah, the husbandand-wife duo behind 6th Day Films – an Indianapolis-based videographer team dedicated to slowing down the blur of your wedding day and creating a treasured film to look back on over the years. To help you in your search, here are a few tips to consider along the way.
The term “wedding video” has evolved tremendously over the last 10 years. What your parents and grandparents think of
when they hear ‘wedding video’ is likely very different than what you’re thinking. Consider a few common types of videos you may come across during your research:
The Story Driven Highlight Film - This is a short (5-10 minutes) film that shows different moments throughout the day, pairs it with audio from the day to tell your story and sets it over music that fits your style and story. If you’ve watched a wedding video on Instagram that made you cry, this was likely a story driven highlight film. At 6th Day Films, this is the style of film we specialize in. Many of our couples say things like, “I like your films because you tell a great story, and it looks like a movie.”
The Music Video Highlight Film - This is a short (5-10 minutes) film that sets moments of the day over music. If you want a simple film that shows sweet and fun moments of the day, but you don’t particularly care about story, this
is an excellent option.
The Documentary Style Film - If “I want it this video to feel like “The Office”” has crossed your mind, this is likely the style you’re looking for. This style is typically longer, may include interviews, and feels a bit more raw or unpolished. These films are a great way to truly relive the day.
The “Just the Ceremony” Style Film - If you just want the major moments of the day captured as they happen, this is likely the style for you. This is traditionally what people think of when they think ‘wedding video’ and it is still a popular request for couples choosing their video.
Once you know what type of film you want for your day, begin compiling a list of videographers you want to ask. Asking for referrals from people you trust is a great place to start. Your planner, photographer, venue,
friends, family and coworkers may all have great experiences with wedding videographers they can refer you to. And, as a bonus tip, when a photographer suggests a videographer, this means they know how to work well together and help your day run smoothly. That doesn’t mean you have to abide by their recommendations, but it could be a great starting point. If someone you follow on social media posts their film and you like the style, follow the tags to see who created it for them. A Google search or wedding website may also be helpful if referrals haven’t provided a solid list.
We recommend starting with a list of five to seven videographers. Any more than that can be too much to manage.
After compiling a solid list, begin reviewing each videographer’s work (their website and Instagram are great places to start). Every
videographer has a style or vibe that is present in every film. If you like the way you feel when watching their work, it’s a good indication they’ll be a good fit for you! Sometimes it’s hard to quantify what you like about certain films as there are several technical, emotional and style factors that come into play. We recommend trusting your eyes and your heart in this part of the process. Start setting up times to reach out to the videographers that best match the style you’re hoping to achieve.
Reach out to the videographers in order of your prioritized preferences and determine their availability. If an incredible wedding film is high on your priority list, we recommend reaching out as soon as possible (for context, we’re currently receiving inquiries for 2024 weddings). If they’re available, request an initial meeting. We know this step can feel overwhelming, but to us, it’s a crucial step. For every wedding we take on, we want to
make sure we’re the right fit for the couple. When selecting your videographer (and photographer), it’s important to remember that you’ll be spending more time with them on your wedding day than your spouse, so it’s important that your personalities mesh well. Setting up this call will help you get a better sense of what packages, pricing and services they offer, as well as their personality.
One step in working well with a videographer is scheduling time to meet in person as you approach your wedding day. This will allow you to talk through your wedding day timeline, your story and what you’re hoping for in your film. Having clear expectations, a plan and a process to get there is crucial to making your wedding day as stress-free as possible.
You’ve done your homework, gone through
the process, had the meetings and now your wedding day is here! It’s time to relax and enjoy your day. Trust your vendors to do their job and soak in every moment.
Your wedding day is going to be a blur. No matter how many people tell you that, you really don’t understand it until you’re living it.
The best way to combat the blur is by being present, intentional and grateful on your big day. Do everything you can to eliminate stress – that can start by trusting your vendors. Believe that your team has your best interest
in mind and is doing their part to create the perfect day for you!
We hope these tips help you along the way! Knowing what you want and where to find it is half the battle. Our wish for every couple is to find the videographer that best fits their needs and dreams. Best of luck on your search!
You can find 6th Day Films at 6thdayfilms. com, on Instagram at @6thdayfilms, or by email at jared@6thdayfilms.com.
With skyline views and an industrial-chic aesthetic, Tinker House offers a unique wedding space in the heart of Indianapolis. We look forward to hosting you and yours! TINKERHOUSEEVENTS.COM @tinkerhouseevents
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Sharon Moore says the story of how she came to open a modern style English tearoom in Indianapolis is a good one.
“My story is ridiculously crazy,” Moore says.
It’s not so much crazy as it is magical in the way life’s pieces fell into place. In 2003, Moore moved from her native Newcastle, England, to Indianapolis to work in motorsports as a BBC television producer for Champ Car. After having her children, Max and Matilda (Tilly), she couldn’t travel as much so she began thinking about launching a new career. She contemplated what would be a good fit.
“Being from England, I was complete foodie,” Moore says, who in February of 2015 opened Tilly’s Tea Room in Fishers in a tiny house with just 35 seats. Not long thereafter, the landlord sold the building, forcing Moore to come up with an alternative plan. Fate intervened when a friend told her about an opportunity to move her business inside of Saks Fifth Avenue in Indianapolis.
“In Indiana, everyone remembers the L.S. Ayres Tea Room, so this was a nod to tradition,” Moore says. She opened Tilly’s Tea
Room & Café in July of 2016. “In England, we have Harrods with the tearoom, so this seemed like a good fit.”
The elegant new location more than tripled the seating capacity. This means that it can host bridal showers, baby showers, birthday parties and corporate events Those who are hosting parties can bring in décor or balloon arches.
“It was a blessing in disguise coming here because we would have outgrown the Fishers space so quickly,” Moore says. “Not to mention, we never would have survived COVID in that small space with the social distancing requirements.”
A lot of the bridal showers involve 30 to 50 people, birthday celebrations often have 20 attendees and networking events sometimes have 50+ people. Recently, a woman who had her baby shower at Tilly’s Tea Room last year came back to celebrate her daughter’s first birthday.
Parties typically involve an English afternoon tea complete with table runners and fine China. Guests can also partake in a full mimosa bar, champagne bar, or selection of wine. Plus, the tearoom offers a full list of hors d'oeuvres. Many of the brides will have champagne on arrival with hors d'oeuvres then seat their guests for afternoon tea.
Though there is not an official dress code at Tilly’s Tea Room, guests do tend to dress in their Sunday best.
“It’s afternoon tea. That’s what makes it special!” Moore says. “There aren’t many places you can go with a nice dress and a hat or a fascinator and not look out of place. It’s fun, elegant and stylish.”
Tilly’s Tea Room has a loyal following, with many regulars who come in with a group of friends to enjoy afternoon tea, soups, salads and paninis.
“It’s a nice, quiet place to spend a few hours and relax,” Moore says. “It’s not like a hectic coffee shop.”
Prior to the pandemic, people came in during the week for sandwiches, salads and soups with most people opting to indulge in afternoon tea on the weekends. After COVID, however, they serve many more afternoon teas than they do regular lunch menu items.
“I think people were so fed up with living in sweatpants 24/7 that they looked forward to getting dressed up and treating themselves to afternoon tea during the week and not just on the weekend, Moore says, who is currently in the process of getting FDA approval to be the only clotted cream supplier in the U.S.
Moore laughs when she describes the process.
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“That sounds disgusting, but it’s not,” she says. She explains that if you went to a cream tea, your scones come with a jam or a curd. You cut your scone in the middle, then add jam followed by a dollop of clotted cream. When Moore first opened in Fishers, she wasn’t able to order the clotted cream, so she was flying it in from an English woman that had a dairy farm in North Carolina, which was an expensive endeavor. So, Moore began the process of getting the FDA approval.
“English scones aren’t like American scones,” Moore says. “English scones are dry and crumbly with sugar on top while ours is a cross between an American scone and an American biscuit.”
Moore’s favorite part of running Tilly’s Tea Room is helping people celebrate special moments in their lives. She’s committed to charity work as well, supporting Gleaners Food Bank, Make-a-Wish Foundation, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and several cancer charities.
“It’s nice to be able to help on a philanthropic level,” Moore says. She also likes to celebrate big happenings in England. For instance, when Harry and Meghan got married, Moore hosted an afternoon tea in which guests dressed up and wore their finest hats. She’s planning a similar event for King Charles’ coronation, which happens to fall on May 6, the same day as her daughter Tilly’s birthday (the tea room’s namesake).
A ridiculously crazy story, perhaps, but also very much kismet.
Tilly’s Tea Room & Café is located on the 3rd Floor of Saks Fifth Avenue in Indianapolis. For more information, call 317-816-0171 or visit tillystearoom.com
Nine years ago when Adrienne Love took a temporary job, she had no idea it would lead to a full-time career. Working a couple days per week selling wedding dresses seemed like the perfect way to gain retail experience. Now, as the owner of The Wedding Studio bridal boutiques in Carmel, Greenwood and Louisville, she believes every bride deserves to create wonderful memories while picking out her dream gown. Recently she moved her Carmel shop, located in Clay Terrace, to a larger space within the complex.
“I was selling medical devices,” Love says. “I loved my jobs and
the products, but I was traveling all the time. I wasn’t doing what I felt I should be. My husband and I decided we wanted to own our own business and open a store. I was friends with the two women who previously owned the Carmel store, so I started working there two days a week. I was completely wrong about all my ideas of what it would be like. I fell in love with the business. It’s one of the first appointments a bride makes in the planning process. For some, it is a dress they have been thinking of their whole lives.”
Choosing a wedding gown is often a much different experience than shopping for an interview outfit or buying a dress for a typical
event. Each gown is a special order that takes at least nine months to be made. Then, up to three months should be allowed for alterations. Add in shipping time, and it makes sense that brides should choose a wedding dress nine months to a year before their wedding date.
The Wedding Studio’s new Carmel space is 6,000 square feet, contains 300 gowns and has six beautiful fitting rooms. A reservation is needed to book a 90-minute session, and each fitting room is large enough to accommodate any family or friends the bride would like to include in the experience.
“It is so fun and satisfying to see a bride look in the mirror and love the dress,” Love says. “It can be an emotional time. Some brides are
scared or worried about finding a dress. The staff is trained on what looks best on different body types and will accent features. Even before the appointment, we prepare for them by asking a ton of questions such as if they prefer straight lines or lots of lace. We update our Pinterest board weekly so brides can view that before they come in.”
For those who want a truly elevated experience, the VIP room, known as the Speakeasy, can be booked for two hours. It is a large space with a separate entrance. Three different packages are available. Options include catering and having Love as the special consultant and fitting expert.
The Carmel location offers a selection of dresses from many different
designers. The cost ranges from $1,500 to $10,000, and the majority of dresses fall between $1,800 and $5,000. Some have the most highend, intricate lace in the world. The classic Audrey Hepburn or Jackie Kennedy looks never go out of style, and many designers use those designs as springboards while adding fun takes and turns. Trendy choices include florals, pastels, puffy sleeves, high necks and even shoulder pads.
“I’m excited the business has grown, but I was alone in the shop a very long time before it did,” Love says. “I was blessed to find a wonderful staff and I couldn’t do it without them. They love to make brides feel beautiful and they never pressure anyone. The satisfaction we get from working with brides has nothing to do with lace and
veils. We realize that bridal dress shopping may have some different dynamics such as the desire to include a grandparent who may not be around much longer, or perhaps the bride’s parents have passed. We meet the families where they are at, dive in and make it a wonderful experience.”
The Wedding Studio in Carmel is located at 14550 Clay Terrace Boulevard, Suite 125 in Carmel. For more info and to make an appointment, call 317-815-2000 or visit theweddingstudios.net. Also view The Wedding Studio on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.
Is your budget under $1,000? Explore The Wedding Loft, The Wedding Studio’s sample bridal boutique, at theweddingloft.net.
