NJ Contemporary Bride Magazine by Valerie Feeney-Nani

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Contemporary Bride®

T h e E n g a g e d G i r l’s S u r v i va l G u i d e ®

19 Real Weddings Newlyweds Share their Wedding Stories

www.ContemporaryBride.com

WIN! WIN! A Luxury Honeymoon At one of Aruba's Most Unforgettable Resorts

over

Trends Trends for for 2013 2013 for a sophisticated and chic wedding

Wedding Venues The Finest Reception Site Guide

more than

Aisle 2013 Spring/Summer

Styles Style

Gowns that will make him swoon!

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Island Getaways For a Romantic Honeymoon

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Resources For Today’s Brides

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Since 1973 Jericho Terrace has been an icon of the New York Catering Industry. In that time, we have built a reputation on fine cuisine, impeccable service, elegant ambiance and attention to detail. We welcome the responsibility and honor of receiving your family and friends to our home in the same high standard as you would have in your own home.

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0ARIS !VENUE s 2OCKLEIGH .EW *ERSEY s 4EL s WWW THEROCKLEIGH NET

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The Event of a Lifetime Celebrate your dreams in our elegant ballroom and stately lobby, set amidst lavish gardens and the historic homes of Rockleigh. Our unsurpassed personal service and custom menus enhance the magic of your wedding day.

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The Empire Club F I N E

C A T E R I N G

estled on a quiet residential street, this newly renovated facility boasts all of the charm and elegance found only in the finest European hotels and clubs. Exclusively yours, The Empire Club offers one wedding at a time, featuring a large separate room for cocktail hour and ceremony and opens up to our lush gardens for photographs and outdoor ceremonies. The Madison Room is the main ballroom and comfortably seats 300 for the dinner reception. The award-winning cuisine is presented and served in the most impeccable manner and the experienced culinary team is capable of customizing any menu. Your guests will be pampered by a most experienced service staff and your whole affair orchestrated by a well-versed maitre dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

136 Mehrof Road â&#x20AC;˘ Little Ferry, NJ 07643

201-641-2892

www.theempireclub.com

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Excellence and Personal Attention...

260 South Street, â&#x20AC;˘ Freehold, NJ 07728

www.southgatemanornj.com

732.431.1500

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® Spring/Summer 2013

Resources For Today’s Brides

Feature Articles 72

RECEPTION SITE GUIDE The perfect wedding facilities.

106

HOW-TO-HUBBY Transition from most eligible bachelor to world’s best husband with these rules to live by.

116

SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF THIS Wedding cake designs that are sure to be love at first bite.

125

AISLE STYLE Walk down the aisle in these fashion-forward collections.

142

LOVE, LAUGHTER, & HAPPILY EVER AFTER Five steps to writing a memorable wedding toast.

148

SEALED WITH A KISS Virtual ideas for physical invitations.

173

BALLROOM DANCING Express your love through a choreographed first dance.

198

UNFORGETTABLE HONEYMOONS Find marital bliss at the luxury Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

205

SWEEPSTAKES Enter to win an 8-day, 7-night stay at one of Aruba's luxury resorts

Enter to win the honeymoon of your Dreams!

Find out where to get these styles on page 125.

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Resources For Today’s Brides

Spring/Summer 2013

PUBLISHER Gary Paris PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Valerie Nani TRAVEL EDITOR Guy Preston BEAUTY EDITOR Tim Alan PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR Meghan L. Chalfant CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lisa Biviano Meghan L. Chalfant Carly Prakapas

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REAL WEDDINGS

THE ULTIMATE STYLE PAGES

Jessica & John at The English Manor

13 Wedding Trends for 2013

Caitlyn & Keith at the DoubleTree Hotel

Tanya & James at Nanina’s In The Park

Gifts for the Couple

Jennifer & Christopher at The Venetian

108 Wedding Signs

ON THE COVER

Jennifer & Robert at Grand Marquis

120 Groom’s Delight

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: The Studio Photographers (800) 439-6178 www.thestudiophotographers.com

Jacqueline & Anthony at Villa Barone Manor

124 Trendy Trousseau

Christie & Kyle at Macaluso’s

Daniela & Rocco at Westmount Country Club

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Diane Benko SINGLE SALES CIRCULATION Michael Gerardo

COVER GOWNS PROVIDED BY: Kleinfeld Bridal (646) 633-4300 www.kleinfeldbridal.com HEADPIECES AND ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Bridal Styles Boutique (718) 339-3222 www.bridalstylesboutique.com FLOWERS PROVIDED BY: Lotus Petals Floral Design, LLC (973) 762-3525 www.petalsdesign.com MAKEUP PROVIDED BY: Tim Alan Make-up Artist (732) 718-1144 www.timalan.net HAIR DESIGN PROVIDED BY: La Sorella Bridal (201) 452-8728 www.lasorellabridal.com Corporate Offices: North East Publishing, Inc. 150 Maple Avenue, #318 South Painfield NJ 07080 Phone: (732) 968-0123 Fax: (732) 968-0220 www.contemporarybride.com North East Publishing, Inc. is not responsible for photographs provided/ or used by participating advertisers in this magazine. No part of this book may be reproduced or utilized in any form, including photography or cover design, without the permission in writing from an authorized agent of North East Publishing,Inc. PRINTED IN U.S.A.All rights reserved Copyright 2013

Page 199

137 Smitten by Bows

102 Tara & Joe at Westhampton Bath & Tennis Club

138 The Blushing Bride

110 Lena & Christopher at Crystal Ballroom

141 Scent-iments - Wedding worthy fragrances

114 Juliana & Alex at Elite Palace

144 Menswear

122 Megan & Mark at Crystal Point Yacht Club 160 Vera & Jason at Glen Island Harbour Club

154 Registry Essentials

166 Patricia & Christopher at Florentine Gardens

179 NYC Style

182 Olga & Ian at Riverview

184 Seaside Love

186 Stephanie & Robert at Versailles Ballroom

196 Dare to Dazzle

190 Rebecca & Mike at The Rosewood Caterers 194 Jenna & Jeff at Shadowbrook

220 Honeymoon Essentials

202 Mara & Conrad at Restaurant Le Procope in Paris, France

IN EVERY ISSUE

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHTS

152

GIFTS FOR THE GUYS IN YOUR BRIDAL PARTY Stylish gift ideas men will appreciate.

153

GIFTS FOR THE GIRLS IN YOUR BRIDAL PARTY A fine selection of items for your entourage.

208

HONEYMOON HOTSPOTS Romantic destinations for your honeymoon getaway.

233

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Wedding merchants & reception sites.

Indira

Liz Fields

Anne Barge

Pnina Tornai

Dennis Basso

Junko Yoshioka

St. Pucchi

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the perfect celebration

Flowers by Vintage & Nouveau Photos courtesy of Allan Reider

Cuisine

Courtyard Dining Gazebo Ceremonies Accent Lighting Large Dance Floor Country Club Setting Accommodations for 50 - 350 Guests

440 Madison Hill Road • Clark, NJ 07066 • 732-382-1664 • www.thegrancenturions.com

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The Rosewood offers spectacular wedding receptions hosted on their very own level.

...Where love is the center of all things.

2863 Woodbridge Avenue Edison, NJ 08837 (732) 549-2900 www.therosewood.com

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jessica&john April 28, 2012 The English Manor • Ocean Township, NJ Jessica and John met in Columbia, South Carolina, in February of 2009. “I wasn’t immediately drawn to this crazy country boy who was loud and outgoing, but he was funny and sweet. After spending time together we realized how much we were alike,” reminisced Jessica. Following a few months and countless hours spent on the phone, the two dated long distance for nine months before Jessica eventually moved to South Carolina. On December 5, 2010, Jessica and John were at Alodia’s–a local restaurant in South Carolina–for dinner. To Jessica’s surprise, a plate with one cannoli, a heart made out of chocolate syrup, along with an open ring box was placed on the table for dessert. “I was so surprised!” Jessica shared. Chosen for its beautiful grounds, with panoramic views of the Colonial Terrace Golf Course and intimate setting providing an inviting ambiance, the ceremony and reception were held at The English Manor. Upon visiting the facility for the first time, Jessica and John were warmly welcomed and felt as though the staff cared about what they wanted on their wedding day [rather than just reviewing what the facility had to offer]. The wedding day began early for the bride and her bridesmaids, who began preparations at Milagro Salon & Spa. As the girls continued with hair and makeup, the groom began his morning with breakfast accompanied by his best man and grandfather, followed by getting ready at The English Manor. Seeing his bride for the first time during their first sighting was John’s favorite memory of the day. “My heart started pounding as I heard Jessica’s footsteps coming down the bridge. For that moment everything was invisible, and I was the luckiest man in the world,” John shared. Jessica walked down the aisle in a tulle and organza ball gown embellished with lace and beading. A white flower hair clip and an elbow-length veil completed her look. John sported a two-button tuxedo with pink vest and tonal striped black tie. Under the gazebo among the lush foliage, Jessica and John exchanged vows and incorporated the traditional Irish blessing. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktail hour on the outdoor deck as they mingled and enjoyed the beautiful sunny weather. Rather than a traditional sit-down dinner, Jessica and John opted for a buffet-style dinner, which allowed guests to socialize and eat in a more relaxed environment. In addition to the threetiered wedding cake, guests were treated to bananas Foster, passed ice-cream cones on a bed of sprinkles, and a variety of cakes and cookies. From the wedding day preparations throughout the ceremony and reception, Emil and Michelle from Contemporary Image captured the day’s events in an artistic style. “We loved Emil’s style, and his pictures really are what made us want him to be there to capture our day,” the bride commented. Chris Garrow from Unforgettable DJ’s got the party started and had guests dancing the night away to a variety of music. He played everything from doo-wop to today’s hits and even included country during the cocktail hour. Jessica and John recently purchased their first home in South Carolina and look forward to starting a family in the future.

ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony & Reception Location: The English Manor Officiant: Father John Michael O’Sullivan Photographer: Contemporary Image Videographer: Joe Minella Photography Ceremony Music: Flora Duo Entertainment: Unforgettable DJ’s Florist: Narcissus Florals Limousine Service: Lacey Limousine Cake Designer: The English Manor Groom’s Cake: Jenni Cakes Bridal Salon & Veil: David’s Bridal Headpiece: Etsy.com Shoes: Michelangelo Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: DIY by Bride Favors: CW Distinctive Designs Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: Milagro Salon & Spa Jeweler: Kay Jewelers Photo Booth: Premier Event Rentals LLC

ContemporaryBride.com

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The

nglish anor

One love... One moment ... One wedding at a time.

Now offering two scenic settings for your wedding ceremony! One English Lane • Ocean Township, NJ 07712 • 732.776.8558 • www.theenglishmanor.com Follow us on Facebook - www.Facebook.com/TheEnglishManor

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3900 River Road Point Pleasant, NJ 732-295-7000 www.thecrystalpoint.com

Begin Your Life Together with a

Waterside Celebration

Breathtaking Water Views Superb Cuisine Elegant Atmosphere Exquisite Ballrooms Private Bridal Suite Picturesque Gazebo Open Air Patios Destination Weddings On-Site Accommodations

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Emerald

13 Wedding Trends

Pantone’s color of the year is a radiant and lively green that’s making a big statement in 2013. Include emerald into your wedding day with a necklace or pair of earrings for a subtle pop of color. Ami Necklace & Raya Earrings www.indira.com

for 2013

Backless Gowns

Plunge into this season and wear a dramatic, sexy, and sophisticated gown. Style Number 4203 www.pninatornai.com

Lace

While lace has been a traditional choice for wedding gowns, it will also be seen in wedding garters and décor to wedding cakes and more. Custom Wedding Garters www.thegartergirl.com

5 10 R hinestone Buckle Invitations

Set the stage for an elegant celebration with custom invitations adorned with a rhinestone brooch. www.rsvp-to-me.com

Braids

Soft and glamorous, braids are making their way off the runway straight down the wedding aisle. Braided Side Swept Style www.lasorellabridal.com

CreativeFood Stations

Put the emphasis on fun and create an environment that allows your guests to be more involved through creative food stations. Mobile Sweets Truck Jaynee’s Party • 201-568-6717

ContemporaryBride.com

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Monograms

Morning After Shoots

Embrace intimate shots of you and your spouse that captures the chemistry you both share. Photography by Michelle JonnĂŠ Photography

Monograms are a great way to personalize every aspect of your wedding showcasing your unique insignia. *Fun fact: Monograms were historically used as a royal signature. Dotted Border - Lipstick - Favor Labels www.annsbridalbargains.com

Peplum Gowns

This popular silhouette adds a feminine and couture look to a gown while accentuating the waistline. Hayley Paige Gown Style HP6209 www.jlmcouture.com

Love Birds

Illusion Neckline Gowns Illusion Neckline silhouettes provide more coverage for the modest bride, yet has just the right amount of playfulness. Emma Gown www.sarehnouri.com

From bird cages and cake toppers to paper motifs and dĂŠcor, birds will add a whimsical flair to your vintage wedding. Love Birds Cake www.elegantlyiced.com

Succulents A new trend in flowers is adding succulents to your bouquet. Green and White Bouquet www.petalsdesign.com

13 Family Heirlooms

Remember and honor loved ones by including family heirlooms within your wedding details. Photo Locket on Bouquet www.westchesterfloral.com

ContemporaryBride.com

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We are committed to providing each client, friend and family member with an unrivaled experience of a lifetime. Hosting only one elegant event at a time and having over twenty years of experience allows us to provide each of our valued patrons with individual service, affair customization and keen attention to detail. As guests of our facility, we feel you deserve nothing less. The warmth, comfort and charm of The Estate offers a truly unique setting for your most special day. Our Georgianstyle mansion boasts expansive gardens, spacious and elegant rooms and décor, world-class cuisine and expert and courteous staff. At The Estate, we are devoted to making your special day everything you dreamed it would be… and much more. We would love the opportunity to be a part of your beautiful beginning, your wonderful journey and a day you will remember for a lifetime. 97 Rivervale Rd. River Vale, NJ 07675 P: 201-666-0444 | F: 201-666-3032 ﬂorentinegardens.com

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devoted

TO MAKING YOUR SPECIAL DAY

EVERYTHING YOU DREAMED IT WOULD BE…

and much more

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Rock Spring Club

Photos by Allan Reider Photography

One Wedding at a Time Situated atop of First Mountain in West Orange, NJ and overlooking spring fed Cable Lake, Rock Spring Club brings you breathtaking views of the Manhattan Skyline in an intimate and elegant atmosphere.

90 Rock Spring Road West Orange, NJ 07052 973.731.6464 www.rockspringclub.com

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ContemporaryBride.com

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The Perfect Marriage. Two landmark facilities tie the knot.

Tuscan Elegance

Estate Elegance

Visit www.DreamWeddingsInThePark.com

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tom@naninasinthepark.com • 540 Mill Street, Belleville, NJ 07109 • 973-751-1230 • www.naninasinthepark.com

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236 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park, NJ 07932 • 973.377.7100 • info@theparksavoy.com • www.dreamweddingsinthepark.com

Since 1982, we have pursued a single goal: to create settings for a garden weddings warmed by timeless elegance and matched by a wedding reception with flawless service. From superb cuisine to lovely natural garden settings and unparalleled staff. The Park Savoy is a wonderfully unique wedding facility. And in keeping with our commitment to service, we cater to only one wedding at at time so that we can fully meet your personal needs.

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caitlyn&keith May 27, 2012 The Sterling Ballroom at the DoubleTree Hotel Tinton Falls, NJ Caitlyn and Keith met freshman year while attending The College of New Jersey in Ewing. Although the two had a crush on each other in college, the timing never worked out until two years after they graduated. For Memorial Day weekend, Caitlyn was flying out to visit Keith in Pensacola, Florida, where he was stationed at the time. Due to bad weather, her flight was delayed three hours, causing her to miss her connecting flight in Atlanta. Not wanting to be away from her any longer, Keith drove five hours to meet Caitlyn in Georgia and brought along with him a bottle of champagne, strawberries, cheese, and crackers. As Caitlyn was struggling to open the bottle of champagne, she turned around to see Keith on one knee proposing. “I couldn’t wait another day. I needed to know that she was going to be my wife,” commented Keith. They set their wedding day for May 27, 2012. The ceremony took place at The Church of the Epiphany, where the bride walked down the aisle wearing a strapless mermaid-style gown designed by Kitty Chen Couture. Keith waited for his bride at the altar wearing his naval officer’s uniform. At the end of the ceremony, the Air Force color guard, along with a couple of the groom’s naval officer friends, performed a ceremonial sword arch. Following the ceremony, the newlyweds and guests headed to the Sterling Ballroom at the DoubleTree Hotel in Tinton Falls for the reception. The couple liked the facility’s warm ambiance, modern décor throughout the facility, and attentive staff. “We wanted everyone to be able to enjoy the night without having to worry about driving home,” commented the bride. Cocktail hour provided a variety of choices for guests, including Hawaiian chicken, sausage, and peppers, chicken cordon bleu, miniature Reubens, and more. Dinner began with a fresh mozzarella and beefsteak tomato salad, followed by the main entrées of ginger-infused salmon, chicken Florentine, or prime rib. In addition to the three-tiered vanilla and strawberry wedding cake, chocolate-covered strawberries were served for dessert. When it came time to choose a photographer, Caitlyn was impressed by KSS Photography’s reviews, as well as Kiamarie’s bubbly personality and professionalism. “My husband and I were nervous about getting our pictures taken, but she made us feel completely natural and at ease,” Caitlyn shared. Reading each other their handwritten vows in private was Caitlyn’s favorite memory of the day. “We wanted the promises to be personal and only to be for each other, so we chose to do them alone,” she shared. Although the couple was not able to go on a honeymoon just yet, they plan to do so as soon as they can. In the meantime, Caitlyn is teaching high school math and will soon be relocating and joining Keith at his next training station after he receives his aviation wings. Caitlyn mentioned, “We’re counting down the days until we can finally live together.”

ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: The Church of the Epiphany Celebrants: Father Redstone and Deacon Mollarky Reception Location: The Sterling Ballroom at the DoubleTree Hotel Photographer: KSS Photography Videographer: Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Accent Video Entertainment: Marsdale Productions Florist: Flowers by Addalia Limousine Service: Bella Limousine Cake Designer: Chocolate Carousel Bridal Salon: Wedding Bells Headpiece: Richards Designs Veil: Belaire Shoes: J.Renee Formal Attire: Naval Officerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Uniform Invitations: MagnetStreet.com Favors: DIY by Bride Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: Abraxas Hair Salon Wedding Day Jewelry: Etsy.com

ContemporaryBride.com

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TINTON FALLS, NJ

FREEHOLD, NJ

Come as a guest, leave as family “My wedding guests are still talking about how excellent the food was. They say that our wedding was the best that they have ever been to.” - Angela & Jason 6/3/12 “Working with the staff this past year was like working with family and I will miss them!” - Cindy 10/3/12 “As a bride it’s hard to enjoy your own wedding but I can tell you from my wedding I had a blast, I wish it never ended. ” - Brenda 10/7/12 “We shopped over 100 venues; hotels, restaurants, county clubs, vineyards and college campuses. We also priced out doing our own reception with our own caterer. No one- nothing compared...” - Al 9/22/12 “They accommodated everything I wanted to make my wedding day special and unique.” - Heather 9/22/12

Get more info online at:

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THE CRYSTAL BALLROOM AT RADISSON FREEHOLD

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THE STERLING BALLROOM AT DOUBLETREE TINTON FALLS

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TOMS RIVER, NJ

EAST WINDSOR, NJ

THE ATLANTIS BALLROOM

AT HOLIDAY INN TOMS RIVER

THE WINDSOR BALLROOM AT HOLIDAY INN EAST WINDSOR

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THE VERSAILLES BALLROOM AT RAMADA TOMS RIVER

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Are you searching for the best venue for your wedding? Search with ease at:

CONTEMPORARY BRIDE.COM 32

ContemporaryBride.com

“Shadowbrook” on your invitation conveys a world of special meaning.

Our 20 secluded acres are set off Route 35 in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, just south of Red Bank. 5 minutes from the Garden State Parkway exit 109. 20 minutes from Staten Island,45 minutes from Brooklyn, 1 hour from Manhattan.

Contact us today to discuss your wedding dreams and visions WWW. SHADOWBROOK.COM | 732.747.0200 | CELEBRATIONS @SHADOWBROOK.COM

tree-lined drive welcomes you and your guests

to Shadowbrook, the most elegant Georgian mansion set on 20 secluded acres of formal gardens and splashing fountains...

Tradition

New Jersey Landmark completed in 1907, Shadowbrook reflects the craftsmanship and

artistic detail of an elegant and gentile era. The impeccable taste of three

generations of the renowned Zweben family make Shadowbrook the perfect setting for your most special day. At Shadowbrook, you will find a genuine desire to make you and your guests feel at home in an atmosphere of

“

gracious hospitality and

impressive charm.

Shadowbrook’s unforgettable

architectural and decorative

more beautiful

hadowbrook took my breath away… each season is

than the next.

threads fashion a visual tapestry of elegance. This is complemented by the artistry of the professional staff and their flawless attention to quality and detail. Our selective special event staff is considered to be without peer in the arranging, coordinating and conducting of both simple and elaborate parties. We at Shadowbrook provide a menu, a service and an ambiance that are unsurpassed for fabulous celebrations.

— The Zweben Family

E legance

for all seasons

PHOTO CREDITS: ABELLA STUDIOS, ANNETTE JENKINS, BEN YING, FODERA PHOTOGRAPHY, GARY BILBOA, GERALDINE PRITCHARD, JERI HOUSEWORTH, KIWI PHOTOGRAPHY, MARY QUINN, MJ COTTON PHOTOGRAPHY, PAPILLIO PHOTOGRAPHY

732.747.0200 | WWW.SHADOWBROOK.COM

”

Tradition

New Jersey Landmark completed in 1907, Shadowbrook reflects the craftsmanship and

artistic detail of an elegant and gentile era. The impeccable taste of three

“

gracious hospitality and

impressive charm.

Shadowbrook’s unforgettable

architectural and decorative

more beautiful

hadowbrook took my breath away… each season is

than the next.

— The Zweben Family

E legance

for all seasons

732.747.0200 | WWW.SHADOWBROOK.COM

”

Timeless E legance

he rich tones of English Oak enfold the unique Oak Room with unmistakable luxury and warmth. The brush strokes of spectacular period art paint an ambiance that envelops the room. Opulent gilded mirrors reflect the magnificent antique marble fireplace that is original to the mansion. Whirl together on the enormous parquet dance floor surrounded by a wall of windows that encircle you with vistas of lush gardens. Shadowbrook’s gardens are on full display from the Oak Room, allowing your guests a view from the striking wall of windows. A warm weather event in the Oak Room allows an opportunity to enjoy the Linden Tree Gardens before entering the ballroom. In the winter months, the antique marble fireplace, which is original to the mansion, casts a warm glow and creates a cozy photo opportunity. The adjacent Horseshoe Bar provides a rich setting for all of your toasts and celebrating!

“Dreams and storybook fantasies of my wedding day all became a

reality

my romantic visions into

732.747.0200 | WWW.SHADOWBROOK.COM

lasting memories.”

at Shadowbrook. Thank you for transforming

732.747.0200 | WWW.SHADOWBROOK.COM

Timeless E legance

“Dreams and storybook fantasies of my wedding day all became a

reality

my romantic visions into

732.747.0200 | WWW.SHADOWBROOK.COM

lasting memories.”

at Shadowbrook. Thank you for transforming

732.747.0200 | WWW.SHADOWBROOK.COM

“Y

great

ou made everything so easy and

Spectacular food,

calling with compliments.

perfect!

Nobody

service …our guests just keep does it better!

”

Impressive C harm

he Regency Room offers regal elegance. The room’s beveled mirrored walls and ceiling offer a versatile, classic canvas for any event…highlighted by a state of the art LED lighting system! Overlooking the formal gardens, the Regency Room is easily accessible for your garden ceremony and cocktail hour. Unique touches include antique chandeliers and sconces from NewYork’s ParamountTheater, and access to the garden room and loggia, making the entire garden level exclusively yours. Shadowbrook offers elegant and spacious bridal suites, providing parties with a luxurious and private haven for last-minute primping, a momentary “escape” or private cocktail hours.

732.747.0200 | WWW.SHADOWBROOK.COM

“Y

great

ou made everything so easy and

Spectacular food,

calling with compliments.

perfect!

Nobody

service …our guests just keep does it better!

”

Impressive C harm

732.747.0200 | WWW.SHADOWBROOK.COM

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

fragrance

hen he slipped the ring on my finger,

it was as if the

of all those beautiful

forever â&#x20AC;?

flowers in your exquisite garden swirled around us, and I knew that our love would last

Romance here is an air of romance that surrounds Shadowbrook, and nowhere is this more evident that in the exquisite gardens surrounding the mansion.The greenness of ivy, laurel, and impeccably manicured hedges highlight the vibrant colors of 40,000 seasonal flowers. The gardens provide breathtaking photo opportunities as well a truly stunning venue for your wedding ceremony and cocktail reception.Your guests will be enveloped in a sense of tranquility as they explore the gardens and splashing fountains to discover their own stolen moments.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;

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INDIRA Indiraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to provide personalized fashion and dĂŠcor - along with exceptional service- to discerning brides. They make their distinctive, flattering, silk bridesmaid dresses in America and allow brides to customize them with hundreds of thousands of vivid color options, coordinated accessories, and gemstone jewelry. Inside every dress lies the Indira Signature Stretch Corset- a figure-flattering top that looks and feels amazing on virtually all body types. www.indiracollection.com

ContemporaryBride.com

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Comfortably Accommodating 100 to 600 Guests

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With the launch of the collection for Spring 2010, Liz Fields is now a sought after label for women seeking luxury and sophistication in their wedding dresses, bridesmaids dresses, destination bridal gowns, or special occasion dresses. Within the first year, Liz Fields has received tremendous recognition for the designs and value of their collections. www.lizfields.com

ContemporaryBride.com

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Romantic Settings • Spectacular Views • Dockside Weddings • Exquisite Cuisine

Conveniently located in the beautiful Dockside 500 Marina, Sunset Harbour is the south shores best kept secret. Offering an elegant setting for weddings with fine cuisine and exquisite service makes us a favorite choice for your special occasion. The elegant decor compliments our excellent food and fine service. Our ballroom boasts a spectacular view of the water, and the outdoor facilities create a relaxed and elegant setting.

90 Colonial Drive • East Patchogue, NY 11772 • 631-289-2582

www.sunset-harbour.com

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Anne Barge Bridal Collection wedding gowns feature modern interpretations of shapes, fabrics, and embellishments found in vintage couture designs throughout history. www.annebarge.com

ContemporaryBride.com

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Pnina Tornai Pnina Tornai inserts in each of her bridal wear and evening gowns one of those special corsets that give the body a perfect form. Her dresses are handmade and sewn in accordance with the principles of Haute Couture using first grade materials and genuine Swarowski crystals and stones. Her line varies from classic and neat cuts to sophisticated hand embroidered gowns. www.pninatornai.com

ContemporaryBride.com

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A Royal Estate of Affairs Celebrating the art of entertaining since 1919

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On the Gold Coast of Long Island between New York City and The Hamptons 135 West Gate Drive 路 Huntington NY 11743 路 631-659-1400

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“Designing my third bridal collection was a great and amazing experince for me - I feel like I’ve carved out a special place in the bridal world for myself. I also see my readyto-wear designs reflected in these classic bridal gowns and have brought the collection to the next level with couture pieces. I’m here to stay and it feels great.” - Dennis Basso www.kleinfeldbridal.com

ContemporaryBride.com

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A 50-year tradition of excellence makes Richfield Regency an ideal choice to host any of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most memorable events. Not only do we offer incomparable and unsurpassed hospitality, services and cuisine, but its elegant and festive atmosphere makes it an exceptional selection for all occasions.

V E R O N A , NJ | 973-239-6234 | R I C H F I E L D R E G E N C Y . C O M

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Junko Yoshioka's Spring/Summer 2013 Bridal collection was inspired by nature with silhouettes ranging from ball gowns to columns along with a few modern takes on the classic mermaid. Yoshioka’s collections are for the demure bride who isn’t overly traditional, but doesn’t want to make a “statement”. www.junkoyoshioka.com

ContemporaryBride.com

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From the Grand Entrance...

To the Magnificent Views...

We’re opening in April 2013 as Northern/Central New Jersey’s newest upscale golf course wedding and event venue. Exclusively yours...one wedding at a time!

Expect gorgeous views, fine cuisine, on-site event planning, unsurpassed services and amenities. Exquisitely designed grand ballroom with space for up to 300 guests. Picturesque views and private lakeside ceremony area. Private bridal suite with bridal concierge service. Restaurant and bar with private dining. Conveniently located near the Garden State Parkway and area hotels offering complimentary shuttle service. Three Golf Drive • Kenilworth, NJ

908.884.5657 • www.GallopingHillGolfCourse.com JForshee@KemperSports.com • Jennifer Lynn Forshee, Director of Catering ContemporaryBride.com

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Renowned for infusing her gowns with touches of magnificently colored jewels, exquisite hand embroidery, delicate beading and sparkling crystals on the finest silks, Rani Totman's inspired designs with innovative draping evoke the timeless elegance every bride desires. www.stpucchi.com

ContemporaryBride.com

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The

Royal Manor is the place to create everlasting memories and your dream reception. Celebrate your new beginning with style, glamour, and elegance. With your vision in mind, make a life-long dream a reality. The Royal Manor earned its’ reputation by providing personalized service, superb cuisine, and seating for up to 600 guests. Our professional staff and marvelous décor will bring the wedding you always dreamed of and the experience you have always wanted to life, right before your eyes. The gleaming marble ﬂoors, illuminating chandeliers and indoor waterfall create the most magniﬁcent experience.

454 Midland Ave., Garfield, NJ 07026 | (973) 478-8590 TEL. | (973) 478-9464 FAX | (201) WEDDING | info@theroyalmanor.com

www.theroyalmanor.com

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tanya&james August 24, 2012 Nanina’s In The Park • Belleville, NJ

After meeting at a social event while attending the University of Scranton, Tanya and James knew early on they wanted to spend the rest of their lives with each other. “James was different from any guy I had ever met. He would do anything for anyone, made me incredibly happy, and we complemented each other so well,” Tanya reminisced.

Six years later from the day they met, the two headed to Rockefeller Center in New York City to finally participate in the activity she had always wanted to do as a couple. As they were on the ice, James proposed, making their first ice-skating experience truly memorable. Choosing a reception location was an easy decision for Tanya and James. Upon visiting Nanina’s In The Park for the first time, the couple was impressed by the pristine grounds, stellar ballroom, reputable service, and the delectable cuisine, which was an important factor for the bride’s large Italian family. “After meeting with Tom Casella, we knew all of our wishes and dreams would be taken care of,” noted the bride. The staff went above and beyond the couple’s expectations. “They promised we wouldn’t have to worry about a thing, and they were absolutely correct,” James mentioned. Cocktail hour provided a lavish assortment, including passed hors d’oeuvres, a chilled and hot seafood bar, sautéed seafood station, carving station, and pasta station, in addition to a wine tasting bar and martini bar. Dinner began with a freshly prepared Tuscany salad, followed by the signature entrée of Chateaubriand and shrimp Nanina’s. Chicken saltimbocca or eggplant Napoleon was also available upon request. Guests were treated to a four-tiered wedding cake for dessert, in addition to a full Viennese hour. The couple admitted they are not very good dancers, but through their lessons with Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Greenbrook, they were able to learn a basic routine right before their big day. Following the newlyweds’ choreographed first dance to “Lucky” by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat, Groove Place got the party started with live entertainment. Daniel J Photography captured the special moments beautifully, including the wedding day preparations, ceremony, and reception. Tanya and James liked how Dan made them feel more comfortable through a personal approach, as well as his unique and creative eye. The couple was equally impressed working with Joe Minnella Cinematography who caught the wedding day on film. Following the wedding, the newlyweds continued to celebrate their marriage as they escaped on their honeymoon to Hawaii and Napa, California.

ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: St. Teresa of Avila Parish Celebrant: Reverend Monsignor Raymond J. Kupke Reception Location: Nanina’s In The Park Photographer: Daniel J Photography Videographer: Joe Minnella Cinematography Entertainment: Groove Place Florist: Floral Designs by Cindy Limousine Service: Asher’s Limo Cake Designer: Le Petit Gateau Bridal Salon: Kleinfeld Veil: I Do, I Do Shoes: Kate Spade Formal Attire: Cozy Formalwear Invitations: Invitations by Danielle Favors: Nanina’s In The Park Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist: My Cinderella’s Dream Jeweler: George Press Jewelers Dance Lessons: Arthur Murray Dance Studio, Greenbrook Photo Booth: Elite Sound Entertainment Honeymoon Locations: Hawaii and Napa, CA

ContemporaryBride.com

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Your ONCE in a LIFETIME PARTY deserves an individual magic touch

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jennifer&christopher June 24, 2011 The Venetian • Garfield, NJ

Jennifer and Christopher met while attending Montclair State University. Although they had mutual friends, their paths didn’t cross until they had Communications Studies together. Upon walking into class Jennifer noticed Christopher right away, and following an exercise to strike up a conversation with the person next to them, the two never switched partners and talked the whole time. Christopher instantly knew she was “the one.” “The first time I met Jen I remember thinking to myself I would love to marry a girl like that,” Christopher shared. Christopher’s favorite memory of the day was standing at the altar watching his bride walk down the aisle. “She looked stunning,” reminisced the groom. Jennifer wore a mermaid-style Pnina Tornai gown embellished with pearls and Swarovski crystals. An elbow-length veil, Thomas Knoell hair pin, and Jimmy Choo glitter slingback pumps complemented her wedding gown beautifully. Inspired by Ryan Reynolds at the 2010 Oscars, Christopher and his groomsmen wore black Joseph Abboud single-breasted tuxedos with white shirts, black bow ties, and black cuff-link shirt studs. The bridesmaids coordinated with black satin Jim Hjelm dresses with black lace over cashmere satin bodices. Following the heartfelt ceremony, the newlyweds, along with their bridal party, were off to Frank Sinatra Park in Hoboken for photographs, while guests headed to The Venetian for an extravagant reception. Upon visiting the facility for the first time, Jennifer and Christopher were warmly greeted and were impressed by the knowledgeable staff. Additionally, they were pleased with the manicured grounds and décor that fit their style. “We wanted a wow factor and The Venetian definitely delivered,” noted Jennifer.

Cocktail hour served a variety of Italian specialties from fresh mozzarella, clams oreganata, to whole roasted pig. The couple also included a fajita station and margarita/sangria station, which reflected their engagement in Mexico, as well as a list of specialty drinks. For dinner guests had a choice of petit filet mignon, mixed grill of salmon, shrimp, and swordfish, or French-cut chicken. Vito from Dash of Class Entertainment got the party started and played a variety of music from every era. Following their grand entrance, which was the bride’s favorite memory of the day, Jennifer and Christopher performed a choreographed number to “It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. Throughout the day, Fiore Films caught the special events on film in a distinctive, edgy style, while Neil from One Perfect Moment captured each moment in photography. The couple noted they liked Neil’s photojournalistic and natural approach. In between dancing and socializing, guests were treated to wedding cake designed by Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery and a Viennese hour serving fresh crepes, waffles, Häagen-Dazs sundae station, fried Oreos, and an assortment of cookies and pastries. At the end of the reception, guests continued to celebrate Jennifer and Christopher’s marriage at the after party, where they danced to music provided by Smokey Starr, a live reggae band. After the wedding the newlyweds escaped on a ten-day Celebrity Cruise aboard the Celebrity Equinox and spent one week traveling the Amalfi Coast for their honeymoon. ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: Church of Saint Ann Celebrant: Father Dominic Dellaporte Reception Location: The Venetian Photographer: One Perfect Moment Cinematographer: Fiore Films Entertainment: Dash of Class DJ Entertainment & Smokey Starr Florist: Something Nice Floral Designs Limousine Service: First Class Limousine Service Cake Designer: Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery Bridal Salon: Kleinfeld’s Veil: Pnina Tornai Headpiece: Thomas Knoell Shoes: Jimmy Choo Formal Attire: V.I.P. Tuxedos Invitations: Made by Bride Favors: Godiva Hair Salon: I Do Hair & Makeup Makeup Artist: Makeup by Marissa Pascone Jeweler: Hearts on Fire Dance Lessons: Shall We Dance Cigar Roller: Tony Santana Honeymoon Location: Celebrity Equinox Cruise– Greece, Turkey, & Italy

ContemporaryBride.com

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546 River Drive • Garﬁeld, NJ 07026 P: 973 546 2250

Venetian_NJBride_SprFinal.indd 1-2

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MagniďŹ cence Gets Better!

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Enjoy a magnificent view of Towers Country Club Golf Course.

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Whether you are planning an intimate ceremony, a reception or a rehearsal dinner, our expert catering and culinary team are waiting to assist you in all aspects of your special day.

We can accommodate parties from 100 - 350 people.

Floral Park, NY â&#x20AC;˘ 516-775-7710 banquetmgr@towersonthegreen.com www.towersonthegreen.com

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jennifer&robert July 28, 2012 Grand Marquis • Old Bridge, NJ

Jennifer and Robert met through mutual friends while attending Monmouth University. After being introduced at a party, the two made great first impressions and were immediately attracted to each other. “Robert was a gentleman from the first day I met him,” Jennifer shared. About five years after their initial meeting on January 5, 2011, Robert took Jennifer back to the location where they always met in between classes and proposed on the steps of Wilson Hall. “I was completely shocked and beyond excited,” exclaimed Jennifer. They celebrated their engagement at Sirena Restaurant in Long Branch surrounded by both families. The ceremony took place at the bride’s parish, The Church of Saint Dorothea. Jennifer walked down the aisle wearing a sweetheart strapless, A-line Stephan Jolie gown. Jimmy Choo shoes embellished with “I Do” appliqués completed the bride’s something blue and overall look beautifully. Robert sported a black tuxedo with white patterned vest and tie, while his groomsmen wore charcoal patterned vests and ties to coordinate with the bridesmaids’ Bill Levkoff dresses. Upon visiting the Grand Marquis for the first time, Jennifer and Robert were welcomed with open arms and knew this was the facility to host their reception. “Jodi, Larry, and Lauren assured me our day would be nothing but the best. The staff went above and beyond. Everything we requested was done better than my expectations,” commented the bride. “The service could not have been any better,” added Robert.

The ballroom was set up perfectly for a summer celebration. Set on ivory linens were tablescapes of roses and hydrangeas in the color scheme of lavender, pink, and tangerine displayed on top of tall vases with fresh fruit inside. Pink uplighting and a custom gobo light–provided by Dash of Class DJ Entertainment–created a romantic glow and tied together the overall color scheme. A personalized seating scroll, menu cards, custom card box, and table numbers were just a few of the details the couple included throughout their reception décor. Cocktail hour provided a variety of selections from pasta, sushi, and a cold fish station, among much more. For dinner, guests were served a trio-entrée that included seared medallion of beef tenderloin, Brazilian lobster tail, and chicken roulade with fresh mozzarella. Guests were treated to a Viennese hour, in addition to a five-tiered wedding cake decorated with cascading flowers, Swarovski crystals, and a monogram cake topper. Guests were sent home with personalized valet tags and handcrafted wine from the Brewer’s Apprentice that Jennifer and Robert made prior to their wedding. Following the celebration, the newlyweds escaped to a magical honeymoon in Hawaii, where they stayed at Aulani–A Disney Resort & Spa, and Grand Wailea. ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: The Church of Saint Dorothea Celebrant: Charles Schwartz Reception Location: Grand Marquis Photographer: John Arcara Photography Videographer: Krystle Clear Productions Entertainment: Mission Dance Florist: Marquis Florals by Kim Limousine Service: First Class Limousine Service Cake Designer: Grand Marquis Bridal Salon, Headpiece, & Veil: Bijou Bridal & Special Occasion Shoes: Jimmy Choo Formal Attire: Dante Zeller Tuxedos Invitations: Stephanie Somodi Designs Favors: Brewer’s Apprentice & Marquis Florals Hair Salon: Jeffrey B. Leonard Makeup Studio: Dior Jeweler: Neves Jewelers Custom Card Box: For The Modern Bride Custom Aisle Runner: The Original Runner Company Cake Topper: Toppers With Glitz Uplighting & Gobo Light: Dash of Class DJ Entertainment Honeymoon Locations: Aulani–A Disney Resort & Spa– Oahu and Grand Wailea–Maui, Hawaii

ContemporaryBride.com

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Reception Site Guide Ceremony Site

Facility Information

Outside Area

Bridal Suite

Lighting Maximum Approx. Available Capacity Price PP

Description

Bergen County Biagioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 299 Paramus Road Paramus, NJ (201) 652-0201 www.biagios.com

170

$40+

View more on page 112

Colonial Inn 545 Tappan Road Norwood, NJ (201) 767-1505 www.colonialinnnj.com

400

$90+

136 Mehrhof Road Little Ferry, NJ (201) 641-2892 www.theempireclub.com

300

$75+

One wedding at a time; large cocktail hour room and ballroom; beautiful gardens for photographs and ceremonies.

View more on page 4

The Estate at Florentine Gardens

97 Rivervale Road River Vale, NJ (201) 666-0444 www.florentinegardens.com

350

varies

Devoted to making your special day everything you dreamed it would be; we would love to be a part of your journey

View more on pages 20-21

The Fiesta 255 Route 17 South Wood-Ridge, NJ (201) 939-5409 www.fiestabanquets.com

375

$75+

Beautifully appointed grounds, fountains gazebos in a Mediterranean venue.

View more on page 73 Luxury hotel offering an elegant garden atmosphere for weddings and special occasions.

Hilton Woodcliff Lake 200 Tice Boulevard Woodcliff Lake, NJ (201) 391-3600 www.woodcliff.hilton.com

500 $110+ View more on page 69 Beautiful outdoor setting for ceremonies and photographs; elegant mansion-style decor.

The Rockleigh 26 Paris Avenue Rockleigh, NJ (201) 768-7171 www.therockleigh.net

800 $115+ View more on pages 2-3

The Royal Manor 454 Midland Avenue Garfield, NJ (973) 478-8590 www.theroyalmanor.com

Grand atrium accommodating up to 400 guests; indoor/outdoor ceremony sites; traditional ballrooms; customized menus.

View more on page 100

The Empire Club

Gardens

Beautiful new ballroom with granite floors and private entrance; fine Italian cuisine; gardens; recently renovated banquet room.

Hotels

550

$95+

Newly renovated banquet facility; conveniently located near major highways; specializing in diverse cuisine and superb service.

View more on page 59

Intimate

Castles/Mansions

Ballroom

Country Clubs

Waterside

ContemporaryBride.com

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Fiesta An atmosphere of elegance and professional care with emphasis on personalized service, quality, and freshness sets the tone for the evening. Known for fabulous food, impeccable service, and beautiful dĂŠcor, Fiesta has long been the choice of future brides for over sixty years.

Multi-Million Dollar Renovation is Complete! 201-939-5409 www.fiestabanquets.com

255 Rt. 17 South â&#x20AC;˘ Wood-Ridge, NJ

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Reception Site Guide Ceremony Site

Facility Information

Bergen County

Outside Area

Bridal Suite

Lighting Maximum Approx. Available Capacity Price PP

Description

(cont’) All new ballroom, exquisite landscaping, and experienced staff to make your reception a success.

Seasons Catering 644 Pascack Road Washington Township, NJ (201) 664-6141 www.seasonscatering.com

350 $100+ View more on pages 62-63 A new 16,000 sq. ft. ballroom with 36 ft. high ceilings. Newly renovated.

The Venetian 546 River Drive Garfield, NJ (973) 546-2250 www.venetiannj.com

1000 $135 View more on pages 66-67

Woodcliff Manor 25 Prospect Avenue Woodcliff Lake, NJ (201) 391-0940 www.woodcliffmanor.com

250

$80+

Country manor with garden setting. Features private use of a Victorian green with waterfall-fed ponds. Perfect for photographs.

View more on page 75

Essex County Newly constructed event venue with upscale décor, culinary excellence, and a reputable staff.

The Grove 691 Pompton Avenue Cedar Grove, NJ (973) 239-0270 www.thegrovenj.com

750

varies

View more on page 47

Nanina’s In The Park 540 Mill Street Belleville, NJ (973) 751-1230 www.naninasinthepark.com

400

varies

View more on pages 25-27

The Newark Club One Newark Center 22nd Floor Newark, NJ (973) 242-0658 www.newarkclub.com

Penthouse dining; panoramic view of the NYC skyline.

350

$125 View more on page 24

Pleasantdale Château

757 Eagle Rock Avenue West Orange, NJ (973) 731-5600 www.pleasantdale.com

350

Breathtaking grounds and rooms for a variety of ceremony and reception location options; grand $169+ yet intimate atmosphere.

View more on page 45

Richfield Regency 420 Bloomfield Avenue Verona, NJ (973) 239-6234 www.richfieldregency.com Gardens

Magnificent New Jersey landmark nestled in a historical park setting; 50 years of catering excellence; multi-million dollar renovation.

Hotels

250

$70+

Verona Park located across the street. Fully decorated on-site chapel.

View more on page 55 Intimate

Castles/Mansions

Ballroom

Country Clubs

Waterside

ContemporaryBride.com

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Woodcliff Manor

Our residential country Manor with immaculate garden setting now features private use of a lovely Victorian green with two waterfall fed ponds before a backdrop of picturesque views for your wedding ceremony, reception, or other special occasion.

FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT PLEASE CALL

25 PROSPECT AVENUE, WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ, 07677

201-391-0940

Every affair, from 50 to 225 guests, is expertly attended to by our dedicated staff and supervised personally by owners Nancy and Gil Reynolds.

(5 minutes from Garden State Parkway, Exit 168)

www.woodcliffmanor.com

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Reception Site Guide Ceremony Site

Facility Information

Essex County

Outside Area

Bridal Suite

Lighting Maximum Approx. Available Capacity Price PP

Description

(contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;)

Rock Spring Club 90 Rock Spring Road West Orange, NJ (973) 731-6464 www.rockspringclub.com

200 $125+

Breathtaking views of the Manhattan Skyline; intimate and elegant atmosphere.

View more on page 23

Hudson County Waterside Restaurant and Catering

7800 B River Rd North Bergen, NJ (201) 861-7767

230

Breathtaking views overlooking NYC skyline with outside areas for receptions; outstanding $145+ cuisine.

View more on page 77

www.watersiderestaurantandcatering.com

Hunterdon County Making dreams come true for one special bride at a time.

Chimney Hill Estate Inn 207 Goat Hill Road Lambertville, NJ (609) 397-1516 www.chimneyhillinn.com

185 $150+ View more on page 100

Mercer County Windsor Ballroom at The Holiday Inn East Windsor

379 Monmouth Street East Windsor, NJ (609) 443-8000 www.windsorballroom.com

220

$65+

From the well appointed gallery to the breathtaking Windsor ballroom, let us surround you in sheer magic.

View more on pages 30-31

Middlesex County

$110

18th century historic ambiance; providing a romantic traditional environment for that special romantic moment for a wedding couple.

varies

View more on page 32 Newly renovated; conveniently located; crystal chandeliers; garden waterfalls; exclusivity of facility available.

Cranbury Inn 21 South Main Street Cranbury, NJ (609) 655-5595 www.thecranburyinn.com

240

Grand Marquis 1550 Route 9 South Old Bridge, NJ (732) 679-5700 www.grandmarquiscaterers.com

600

View more on page 105

Pierreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of South Brunswick

582 Georges Road Monmouth Junction, NJ (732) 329-3219 www.pierresnj.com

500

$79+

View more on page 97

Pines Manor 2085 Route 27 Edison, NJ (732) 287-2222 www.pinesmanor.com Gardens

Family owned and operated facility; exquisite food and service; elegant and natural feeling banquet rooms.

1500 $90+

A landmark centrally located near all major highways. You will be charmed by our warm staff and fine cuisine.

View more on page 101 Hotels

Intimate

Castles/Mansions

Ballroom

Country Clubs

Waterside

ContemporaryBride.com

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73-31554 disk ad Proof 1

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American Photographers LLC

Visit us online at www.watersiderestaurantandcatering.com

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Description

Middlesex County (cont’) The Place on the Lake 16 Patrick Street East Brunswick, NJ (732) 297-1500 www.theplaceonthelake.com

400

$95+

Beautifully landscaped facility overlooking the breathless lake; specializing in one wedding at a time.

View more on page 79

The Rosewood 2863 Woodbridge Avenue Edison, NJ (732) 549-2900 www.therosewood.com

550

$70+

The Rosewood offers a “one at a time wedding philosophy” hosting spectacular wedding receptions on their very own exclusive level.

View more on pages 12-13

St. John Neumann Banquet Center

146 Metlars Lane Piscataway, NJ (732) 562-2411 www.diometuchen.org/banquets

300

$50

Our wonderful experienced staff will work to make your wedding one to remember.

View more on page 100

Monmouth County The Channel Club 2 Channel Drive Monmouth Beach, NJ (732) 229-3131 www.channelclubnj.com

250

$114

View more on page 11

Colts Neck Inn Route 34 and 537 Colts Neck, NJ (732) 462-0383 www.coltsneckinn.com

175

$85

50A Gibson Place Freehold, NJ (732) 780-3405 www.crystalballroomnj.com

300

$72+

1 English Lane Ocean Township, NJ (732) 776-8558 www.theenglishmanor.com

200

$90+

One wedding at a time... Yours! Beautiful gazebo located in our gardens for ceremony on site. Outdoor cocktail hour.

View more on page 16

Jacques Reception Center 500 Palmer Avenue Middletown, NJ (732) 671-0700 www.jacquescatering.com

Hotels

Upscale new banquet facility; newly renovated and conveniently located to major highways.

View more on pages 30-31

The English Manor

Offering an intimate space for your event with a newly remodeled grand ballroom and garden patio.

View more on page 96

Crystal Ballroom at the Radisson Hotel Freehold

Gardens

Panoramic water views; scenic gardens; outdoor waterfront ceremony and reception area; private bridal suite; one wedding at a time.

450

$89

Family owned & operated for over 50 years; award-winning cuisine; excellent service.

View more on page 81

Intimate

Castles/Mansions

Ballroom

Country Clubs

Waterside

ContemporaryBride.com

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Bridal Suite

Lighting Maximum Approx. Available Capacity Price PP

Description

Monmouth County (contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;) Nauvoo Grill Club 121 Fair Haven Road Fair Haven, NJ (732) 747-8777 www.nauvoogrillclub.com

150

$75+

Based on mission style architecture, we embrace a ski lodge appeal.

View more on page 32

Raven & The Peach 740 River Road Fair Haven, NJ (732) 747-4666 www.ravenandthepeach.net

200

$115

Decorated in the richest woods and finest fabrics, dressed with luxurious table appointments held underneath a sky-lit ceiling.

View more on page 104

Shadowbrook Route 35 Shrewsbury, NJ (732) 747-0200 www.shadowbrook.com

300

Elegant Georgian mansion set on 20 secluded acres of spectacular formal gardens for ceremonies $100+ and cocktail hours.

View more on pages 33-44 & 91 New cocktail hour pavilion; outside patio and garden. One wedding at a time available.

South Gate Manor 260 South Street Freehold, NJ (732) 431-1500 www.southgatemanornj.com

500 $100+ View more on page 5

Spring Lake Manor 415 Route 71 Spring Lake Manor, NJ (732) 245-6488 www.springlakemanor.com

250

Picture perfect weddings; private cocktail room and bridal suite; exclusive courtyard with founvaries tains and gardens.

View more on page 93

Sterling Ballroom at the Doubletree by Hilton Tinton Falls

700A Hope Rd, Tinton Falls, NJ (732) 544-9305 www.sterlingballroomevents.com

225

$59+

Tie the knot in the breathtaking new Sterling Ballroom. In honor of our debut, our most competitive rates are available.

View more on pages 30-31

Morris County Casa Bianca 5266 Berkshire Valley Road Oak Ridge, NJ (973) 697-9704 www.casabiancabanquets.com

200

$75+

View more on page 83

Flanders Valley 80 Pleasant Hill Road Flanders, NJ (973) 584-6620 www.flandersvalleyweddings.com

Gardens

Hotels

Celebrating the Grand Opening of our new facility; one wedding at a time; exquisite details; lasting impressions.

210

$70+

One wedding at a time; set between a 250-acre horse training facility and 2 championship golf courses; gazebo.

View more of page 9 Intimate

Castles/Mansions

Ballroom

Country Clubs

Waterside

ContemporaryBride.com

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Catering to Your Good Tastes at Your House... ...or Ours! Reception Center and Catering

403 Highway 36, Hazlet, NJ | 500 Palmer Avenue, Middletown, NJ | (866) 395-3364 infojac@jacquescatering.com | JacquesCatering.com

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Morris County (contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;) The Skylands at Randolph 792 Route 10 West Randolph, NJ (973) 328-8600 www.skylandsatrandolph.com

1000 varies

Unparallelled ambiance of elegance and charm; garden and gazebo area; outdoor ceremonies; conveniently located.

View more of page 51

220

Lakeside views; stone fireplaces; inside and outside hour and a half cocktail hour; recent two-million $125+ dollar renovation.

400

One event at a time; nestled in a historical park setting with lavishly manicured grounds; exceptionvaries al cuisine and service.

Lake Valhalla Club 13 Vista Road Montville, NJ (973) 334-3190 www.lakevalhallaclub.com

View more on page 112

The Park Savoy 236 Ridgedale Avenue Florham Park, NJ (973) 377-7100 www.theparksavoy.com

View more on pages 25-27

Ocean County Atlantis Ballroom at the Holiday Inn Toms River

290A Route 37 East Toms River, NJ (732) 731-8000 www.atlantisballroom.com

225

$59+

Black marble veranda; outdoor ceremony space; Hollywood lighting available; 10 min. from picturesque beaches and boardwalks.

View more on pages 30-31

Crystal Point Yacht Club 3900 River Road Point Pleasant, NJ (732) 295-7000 www.thecrystalpoint.com

300

$98+

Views of the Manasquan River; private bridal cocktail reception; outdoor patio; attentive staff; exquisite cuisine.

View more on page 17

Versailles Ballroom at the Ramada Toms River

2373A Route 9 Toms River, NJ (732) 719-1206 www.versaillescaterers.com

275

$65+

Veranda with French doors and fireplace; crystal chandeliers in new Versailles Ballroom; elegance shines through in every detail.

View more on pages 30-31

Passaic County The Brownstone 351 West Broadway Paterson, NJ (973) 595-8582 www.thebrownstone.com

315

View more on page 85

Macalusoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 161 Rea Avenue Hawthorne, NJ (973) 427-7320 www.macalusos.com

Gardens

$90+

Elegant ballrooms; manicured gardens; expertly prepared cuisine and personalized service from our professional staff.

350

From the beginning of the occasion to the end, every detail is carefully attended to ensure that you $125+ and your guests enjoy their time.

View more on page 92 Hotels

Intimate

Castles/Mansions

Ballroom

Country Clubs

Waterside

ContemporaryBride.com

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5266 Berkshire Valley Road Oak Ridge, NJ 973-697-9704 casabiancabanquets.com

for a truly unforgettable experience

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Passaic County (cont’) Westmount Country Club 728 Rifle Camp Road Woodland Park, NJ (973) 256-2700 www.westmountcc.com

1200

Remodeled lounges and dining room; breathtaking views; awardwinning cuisine; outdoor cere$100+ monies; gazebo; lavish waterfalls. View more on the Back Cover

Union County The Berkeley Plaza

735 Springfield Avenue Berkeley Heights, NJ (908) 464-0300 www.berkeleyplaza.com

350

$70+

High standards of excellence in food, ambiance and service. Ballroom has spiral staircase; large dance floor; outside gazebo.

View more on page 7

Clubhouse at Galloping Hill Golf Course

3 Golf Drive Kenilworth, NJ (908) 884-5657 www.GallopingHillGolfCourse.com

300 $100+

Gorgeous views, fine cuisine, onsite event planning, unsurpassed services and amenities.

View more on page 57

The Gran Centurions 440 Madison Hill Road Clark, NJ (732) 382-1664 www.thegrancenturions.com

350

$67

Elegant fine catering for over 40 years; affordable settings; Four Star Chefs create delicious menu options; professional service.

View more on page 10

The Grand Summit Hotel 570 Springfield Avenue Summit, NJ (908) 273-3000 www.grandsummit.com

300

$95+

Original slate flooring; lighted fountain; Atrium;views of historic Summit.

View more on the Inside Back Cover

Tutto Bené 304 West Route 22 Springfield, NJ (973) 379-3327 www.mariostuttobene.com

400

varies

The Tutto Bené Ballroom at Hotel 304 West is ready for your wedding reception. Overnight accommodations are available.

View more on page 90

New York Venues Newly renovated ballroom; unique koi pond in water fall gardens; outdoor ceremonies.

Crowne Plaza Suffern

3 Executive Boulevard Suffern, NY (845) 357-4800 www.cpsuffernhotel.com

250

varies View more on page 92

Grand Oaks Country Club 200 Huguenot Boulevard Staten Island, NY (718) 356-2771 www.grandoaksnyc.com

Gardens

Hotels

900

$45+

Located in the heart of Staten Island overlooking the golf course; newly renovated.

View more on page 22 Intimate

Castles/Mansions

Ballroom

Country Clubs

Waterside

ContemporaryBride.com

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Let us dazzle you with vaulted conservatories, hand-painted ceiling domes, a lavish ballroom, grand atrium, ornate fireplaces, fountains, and more picture-perfect settings for wedding photos than you can imagine. An ambience like no other, together with fabulous international fare by award-winning chefs and the finest wine, spirits and service, put The Brownstoneâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; and your wedding receptionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;in a class of one.

351 West Broadway Paterson, New Jersey 07522-1978 Tel: 973-595-8582 Fax: 973-595-1141 1-800-464-8582 www.thebrownstone.com

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New York Venues Grand Plaza 23 Nelson Avenue Staten Island, NY (718) 967-4034 www.grand-plaza.com

250

varies

Exquisite ambiance, gourmet food and service above the rest with a dedication to quality that is second to none.

View more on page 113

Jericho Terrace 249 Jericho Turnpike Mineola, NY (516) 742-5251 www.jerichoterrace.com

500

$65+

View more on page 1

OHEKA CASTLE Hotel & Estate

135 West Gate Drive Huntington, NY (631) 659-1400 www.oheka.com

1000 $200+

90 Colonial Drive East Patchogue, NY (631) 289-2582 www.sunset-harbour.com

350

$70

Waterfront location overlooking the South Bay; outdoor area for photos, cocktail hour or ceremony; romantic sunsets.

View more on page 49

Towers on the Green 272-48 Grand Central Parkway Floral Park, NY (516) 775-7710 www.towersonthegreen.com

3500

$85

Where your special day is embraced by a professional staff with enthusiasm and sincerity.

View more on page 68

The Vanderbilt at South Beach

300 Father Capodanno Boulevard Staten Island, NY (718) 447-0800 www.vanderbiltsouthbeach.com

450

$95

Staten Island’s exclusive beachfront banquet facility. Unique elegance with magnificent ocean views.

View more on page 87

Verdi’s of Westbury 680 Old Country Road Westbury, NY (516) 334-4552 www.verdis.com

300

$60+

Known for serving outstanding Italian and Continental cuisine. Long Island’s most distinctive caterer.

View more on page 109 Known for serving outstanding cuisine.

Verdi’s of Whitestone 149-58 Cross Island Parkway Whitestone, NY (718) 746-6000 www.verdis.com

Breathtakingly beautiful historic mansion; premier wedding venue; boasting 32 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites. Site Fee.

View more on page 53

Sunset Harbor

Gardens

35 years of catering expertise; pursuit of service excellence; commitment to artistry led by our executive chef.

Hotels

150

$60 View more on page 109

Intimate

Castles/Mansions

Ballroom

Country Clubs

Waterside

ContemporaryBride.com

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jacqueline&anthony October 7, 2012 Villa Barone Manor • Bronx, NY

Jacqueline and Anthony met at the Publik House (a local bar in their hometown) after a big rivalry football game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys. Despite the two being fans of opposite teams, they hit it off. On August 24, 2011, Jacqueline was home cooking dinner, and after Anthony arrived home from working late, she called to tell him dinner was ready. When he didn’t answer, Jacqueline walked into their bedroom to find Anthony on one knee holding a cushion-cut engagement ring. “I was speechless!” Jacqueline reminisced. When the couple began planning their wedding, they knew they wanted to tie the knot in fall. After visiting Villa Barone Manor, Jacqueline and Anthony were impressed with the overall elegance of the facility. “Our maître d’, Anthony Orza, made us feel like we knew him for twenty years, and he worked with us every step of the way during our planning,” noted the groom. Guests were invited to their October 7, 2012 wedding with custom invitations designed by RSVP to Me. "We received so many compliments on how beautiful and organized our invitations were. Kelly was great to work with, and once I explained what I wanted, she showed me some samples and we went from there," commented Jacqueline. The bride walked down the aisle at the Villa Barone Manor wearing a fit-and-flare Pronovias wedding gown. It had a V-neckline, pleated bodice, ruffle train, and was embellished with a crystal and beaded belt. Anthony sported a black Calvin Klein tuxedo with ivory vest and tie and gold cuff links. During the religious ceremony, the couple participated in a unity candle and memorial candle that acknowledged their six deceased grandparents.

Guests enjoyed a lavish cocktail hour with a variety of options, including a seafood raw bar, a panini station, a pasta station, and more. For dinner, guests had a choice of rib-eye steak, chicken Florentine, or a broiled seafood combination of lobster tail with shrimp, scallops, and salmon. “Everyone raved about how much food there was,” noted Jacqueline. Jimmy Dee Music Productions got the party started and had the dance floor packed the entire night. Jacqueline and Anthony held the spotlight to “It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill for their first dance. In between dancing and socializing, guests were treated to an ice-cream sundae bar, fried zeppolis, tiramisu, and crepes in addition to assorted Italian coffees and after-dinner cordials. After cutting their four-tiered wedding cake, Jacqueline and Anthony surprised guests as they shared a second dance to “Love of a Lifetime” by FireHouse as Villa Barone performed a pyrotechnics display on the dance floor. After meeting with Ricky Restiano Photography, Jacqueline and Anthony were impressed by Ricky’s creative edge and unique style. From the morning preparations to their first look at the pier in Piermont, New York, to the ceremony and throughout the reception, Ricky captured the special moments perfectly. Jacqueline and Anthony recently escaped on an adventurous honeymoon in Costa Rica where they participated in various excursions, including zip-lining and seeing the hot springs. ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony & Reception Location: Villa Barone Manor Officiant: Reverend David Lothrup Photographer: Ricky Restiano Photography Videographer: Fantasy Flash Entertainment: Jimmy Dee Music Productions Florist: Westchester Floral Limousine Service: Silver Star Limousine & Starlight Limousine Cake Designer: Fleetwood Pastry Shop Bridal Salon: Helen Bohn Bridals Veil: Pronovias Headpiece: Denise Leli Bridal Headpieces Shoes: Badgley Mischka Formal Attire: Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wearhouse Invitations: RSVP to Me Escort Cards, Ceremony Programs, & Reception Menus: Brittney MacKenzie Favors: Donations to The American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association, and American Stroke Association Hair Salon: La Bella Makeup Studio: Candi Colours by Nicole Jeweler: Mamari Jewelers Honeymoon: Costa Rica

ContemporaryBride.com

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Gifts for the Happy Couple 1

4 5 1. Personalized Family Story Wall Art - www.redenvelope.com 2. Personalized Chateau Wine Bucket - www.redenvelope.com 3. Galway Romance Toasting Flutes - www.personalcreations.com 4. Lovebirds - www.uncommongoods.com 5. Family Tree Keepsake Box - www.redenvelope.com

Celebrate your Wedding in Simple Elegance

Photo courtesy of Allan Reider Photography

304 West Rt 22 Springfield NJ 90

Tutto Bené Ballroom at Hotel 304 West

Affiliated with Mario’s Tutto Bené of Union, NJ www.mariostuttobene.com

(973) 379-3327 ContemporaryBride.com

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Can Now Be Exclusively Yours

Please see our 12 page brochure in this issue Call today to discuss your wedding dreams and visions Route 35, Shrewsbury, NJ

732-747-0200

shadowbrook.com

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Experience

the majesty that is...

A breathtaking facility with Mediterranean charm and newly appointed details added to the grand ballroom and PDJQLÃ&#x20AC;FHQW FRXUW\DUG Incredibly attentive service, XQLTXH SUHVHQWDWLRQV DQG OHJHQGDU\ FXLVLQH &RFNWDLO +RXU DQG 9HQHWLDQ 5RRP a 2XU 6SHFLDOWLHV 3FB "WFOVF GPS (14 VTF UI "WF )BXUIPSOF /+ t 5FM t 'BY JOGP!NBDBMVTPT DPN t XXX NBDBMVTPT DPN t XXX GBDFCPPL DPN NBDBMVTPTDBUFSJOH

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s 4HREE ELEGANT BALLROOMS WITH ACCOMMODATIONS FOR UP TO GUESTS s 7ORLD #LASS "ANQUET 3ERVICE s %NCHANTING 0ICTURESQUE 7ATERFALL 'ARDENS +OI 0OND s EXQUISITE ROOMS AND SUITES

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The Perfect Setting For All Occasions

The Spring Lake Manor, is a beautiful Victorian Mansion, located in the tranquil Jersey Shore community of Spring Lake, known for its two miles of gorgeous white, sandy beaches. Have your wedding pictures photographed at the beach, and then come to the Spring Lake Manor for a wonderful reception filled with great food and ambiance. The Manor holds picture perfect weddings, accommodating up to 250 people, in the newly renovated ballroom, along with a private cocktail room & private bridal suite. With one wedding at a time, you will have exclusive access to the beautiful courtyard complete with a fountain & manicured gardens. Come in for a visit & let one of our expert consultants customize a wedding package to fit your needs.

415 Highway 71 â&#x20AC;˘ Spring Lake Heights, NJ 07762 732-449-6630 â&#x20AC;˘ www.springlakemanor.com

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christie&kyle November 2, 2012 Macaluso’s • Hawthorne, NJ “Walking down the aisle on November 2, 2012, was not only a moment of truth, it was a reminder that if you have faith and believe in something bigger than yourself, there is a chance that your miracle can happen,” reflected Christie on her wedding day. Growing up, Christie and Kyle spent every summer at their second homes in Mantoloking and Lavallette, New Jersey. When Kyle began planning the proposal, he knew there was no better location to ask for Christie’s hand in marriage than on the beach at the Jersey shore. Little did they know, two years after Kyle’s proposal in Lavallette, Hurricane Sandy would affect every detail of their anticipated wedding day. With the help of their vendors, family, and friends, Christie and Kyle re-planned their entire wedding seamlessly, and the couple was ready to tie the knot. “I will be forever grateful [for everyone who helped save our wedding day],” thanked the bride. Kyle’s favorite memory of the day was watching his bride walk down the aisle at Our Lady of Mount Virgin. “She looked so gorgeous. I could not help but smile and choke back tears,” the groom shared. Christie wore a fitted, dropped-waist Stefan Jolie gown with sweetheart neckline. She carried a beautiful bouquet made of two-toned roses and dark purple calla lilies. The groom wore a classic black tuxedo with ivory shirt and champagne vest. Following the ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests headed to Macaluso’s for the reception. After their original facility canceled due to power loss, Macaluso’s happily took Christie and Kyle in and helped re-plan the wedding in under 24 hours. “The staff at Macaluso’s was absolutely amazing and the food was unbelievable,” noted Kyle. A variety of options including smoked and fresh fish stations, pasta station, carving station, and shish kebob station among much more was available during the lavish cocktail hour. For dinner, guests had a choice of filet mignon, chicken saltimbocca, or salmon, served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes. Guests were treated to a full Venetian hour, in addition to a black-and-white wedding cake embellished with purple flowers designed by Palermo’s Bakery. From the wedding preparations throughout the ceremony and reception, Jessica Lauren Photography captured the day’s events flawlessly. Christie and Kyle loved Jessica’s bubbly personality, professionalism, and her devotion to her work. The couple was equally pleased working with V & V Video Productions, who captured the special moments on video. “I commend them for helping make our day special and putting forth their efforts especially in the aftermath of all the damage and disasters around us,” commented Kyle. Following the couple’s first dance as newlyweds to “Then” by Brad Paisley, Elite Sound Entertainment got the party started. Their emcee for the evening, Johnny Budz, played a variety of music and had guests out on the dance floor the entire night. In addition to playing music, Elite Sound Entertainment provided purple uplighting that enhanced the romantic ambiance of the ballroom. Christie and Kyle thanked their guests for being a part of their day with black, white, and purple M&M’s displayed in pillow-shaped boxes with a custom sticker on the outside. The newlyweds escaped to Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa for their honeymoon.

ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church Celebrant: Father Peter Reception Location: Macaluso’s Photographer: Jessica Lauren Photography Videographer: V & V Video Productions Entertainment: Elite Sound Entertainment Florist: Valley Regency Design Flowers Limousine Service: America’s Best Limo Cake Designer: Palermo’s Bakery Bridal Salon & Veil: Bijou Bridal Headpiece: Something Borrowed Shoes: Steve Madden Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Valley Regency Designs Favors: DIY Hair Stylist: Hair by Vicky Makeup Artist: Cyndi Parisi Jeweler: MA Jewelers, LLC Honeymoon Location: Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa

ContemporaryBride.com

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A Toast To …

Making your Dreams come true

All of Our Wedding Professionals. You made our dreams come true!

t The Colts Neck Inn, we know that the commitment of a lifetime deserves the event of a lifetime. With culinary excellence and a romantic setting, we will ensure your day is as memorable as “I do”.

The Colts Neck Inn 732 462 0383 • www.coltsneckinn.com Route 34 and 537 • Colts Neck, NJ

When visiting our vendors, please mention that you saw their advertisement in Contemporary Bride® Magazine! The Studio Photographers

Thank You!

Trust your wedding to the professionals! 1-800-242-4461 ContemporaryBride.com

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Begin unforgettable memories at Pierre’s...

Family owned and operated, Pierre’s banquet facility offers charm and elegance in a warm atmosphere that is set with lavish landscaping, water fountains, and a new custom built gazebo nestled into a wooded backdrop. Pierre’s warm service and experience in high culinary design set them apart from the competition, along with a gourmet bakery on site for the wedding cake of your dreams. Dedicated to serving the individual needs of their bridal couples one affair at a time, makes the difference. Contact their in-house party planners to arrange for a personal tour and see why Pierre’s leaves a lasting impression. 582 Georges Road • Monmouth Junction, NJ

732.329.3219 www.pierresnj.com

Restaurant/Catering & Banquet • Excellence in Catering Serving the Community for 20 Years

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daniela&rocco July 7, 2012 Westmount Country Club • Woodland Park, NJ

Although Rocco thought Daniela was beautiful after noticing her at a carnival, he didn’t have an opportunity to approach her at the time. “Since that day, I couldn’t get her out of my mind,” Rocco shared. A few weeks passed and to his surprise, Daniela walked into his job. “I was immediately attracted to him,” she reminisced. After dating for quite some time, Rocco knew he wanted the proposal to be special and sought out Go Get It Events to help with the planning. On June 26, 2010, the two enjoyed a romantic dinner followed by a horse and carriage ride around Central Park. As Rocco led Daniela toward the gazebo, she was surprised to see it decorated with beautifully lit lanterns, rose petals, and a table set up with two chairs. As Daniela began reading the scroll Rocco had given her, he was on one knee proposing. “It was such a surreal feeling like I’ve never had before. I was so excited, happy, and overwhelmed with emotions, I couldn’t hold back my tears. All of the planning and preparations he put into this proposal made me feel very special. I am one lucky girl to have him,” Daniela explained. The newly engaged couple celebrated their engagement with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries. About two years later Daniela walked down the aisle at the location where her parents were married thirty-seven years prior–Regina Pacis Church. Seeing each other for the first time was the couple’s favorite memory of the day. The bride stunned in a custom Pnina Tornai gown featuring a one-shoulder, corset-style bodice, pickup-style skirt, and Swarovski accents. Following the traditional full mass ceremony, the newlyweds and bridal party took pictures with the help of Michael Romeo

Creations, while guests headed to Westmount Country Club for the reception. Daniela and Rocco fell in love with the Westmount after attending a wedding years prior, but were even more impressed with the facility after seeing the latest renovations and meeting with Stephanie DelGatto. The couple both agreed the staff was professional, accommodating, and truly delivered, from the food and service to every last detail. Cocktail hour began with a variety of Italian-American and Japanese specialties, in addition to a martini and margarita bar. For dinner, guests were given a choice of four entrées, including a fourteen-ounce prime rib, organic French breast of chicken, homemade eggplant parmigiana al forno, or a seafood bake with Maine lobster tail, jumbo gulf shrimp, clams, scallops, and mussels. In between dancing and socializing, guests were treated to a full Viennese hour, in addition to a seven-tiered pearlized wedding cake from Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery. Following their big day, Daniela and Rocco traveled to Tahiti for their honeymoon where they enjoyed an over-the-water suite at the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa and a private beach villa at Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa. They are currently looking forward to enjoying time together, traveling, and starting a family in the future. ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: Regina Pacis Church Celebrant: Reverend Monsignor Ronald T. Marino, V.E. Reception Location: Westmount Country Club Photographer: Michael Romeo Creations Videographer: AMG Events & Visuals Entertainment: Gio Venuto Band Florist: Pedestals Floral Decorators Limousine Service: Double Diamond Limousines Cake Designer: Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery Bridal Salon: Kleinfeld Veil: Peter Langner Headpiece: Denise Leli Bridal Headpieces Shoes: Casadei Formal Attire: Phil’s Tuxedo’s Invitations and Sweets Truck: Jaynee’s Party Favors: Casa Del Corredo Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist: Didi Benabo Jeweler: Anter Jewelry Trumpeters: King’s Brass Custom Aisle Runner: Original Runner Company Honeymoon Locations: Bora Bora and Tahiti

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The Big day is finally here! The day you dreamed of when you were a little girl. You dressed like a princess Whispering magical words of foreverâ&#x20AC;Ś

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Chimney Hill Estate Inn Experience The Magic 207 Goat Hill Road Lambertville, NJ 08530

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Make Your Event One to Remember.... Your Wedding Should Be Unforgettable Our rooms can accommodate from 30 to 300 guests. Our experienced staff will work with you to make your wedding memorable.

Colonial Inn 545 Tappan Road Norwood, New Jersey 07648 Visit us at www.colonialinnnj.com or call today for an appointment 201-767-1505

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146 Metlars Lane Piscataway, NJ

732-562-2411 A short drive from Route 287, the NJ Turnpike, Parkway, Route 1 and 18.

www.DioMetuchen.org/Banquets ContemporaryBride.com

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tara&joe October 20, 2012 Westhampton Bath & Tennis Club Westhampton Beach, NY It was love at first sight for Tara and Joe when they were introduced at his office holiday party seven years ago. “The second we shook hands, I experienced something I never had before in my life,” reminisced Tara. When Joe began planning the proposal, he knew he wanted to incorporate Tara’s passion of space exploration and discovering new worlds. On March 10, 2012, Tara was finishing anchoring a news show when her director told her there was a mistake they had to correct and not to leave. As she watched the monitor for the replay, Joe’s 30-second commercial that he filmed inside the Hudson River Museum Planetarium began playing. “He compared our love to all the coolest miracles in the universe, but said of all the stars, I shine the brightest for him,” Tara shared. Chosen for its beachfront property with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and beautiful décor throughout the facility, the ceremony and reception were held at the Westhampton Bath and Tennis Club. It was a beautiful day for a beach wedding [just one week before Hurricane Sandy made landfall]. Seeing Tara for the first time in her wedding dress was Joe’s favorite memory of the day. She looked stunning in a corset-style Suzanne Neville gown made of Chantilly lace. The groom sported a traditional Joseph Abboud tuxedo with white shirt, ivory vest, and bow tie. As the sun was shining bright with waves crashing along the shore, the two were married in a traditional Jewish ceremony. “One of my favorite parts of the ceremony was when we signed our ketubah. My younger sister made it from a picture from the Hubble telescope, knowing how much I love NASA and efforts to explore the final frontier,” noted the bride. As cocktail hour took place under the stars near the pool area, guests enjoyed a lavish spread, including lime rock lobster medallion, tuna tartar mini cones, miniature sirloin burgers, and the Hamptons raw bar. Dinner began with a warm goat cheese and leek tart, followed by a choice of breast of chicken roulade or filet mignon for the main entrée. Guests were treated to miniature key lime pies, chocolate-dipped strawberries, doughnut holes with dipping sauce, and miniature ice-cream cones served butler style, in addition to their red velvet with gianduja mousse wedding cake. Hank Lane Music & Productions got the party started with live entertainment. They played a variety of music that had guests dancing the entire night. In order to incorporate a feel of local music, Joe surprised Tara with a special guest appearance from Taylor Dayne, who serenaded the couple. From the morning preparations, ceremony, and throughout the reception, Shira Weinberger captured the special moments in a photojournalistic approach. “Shira perfectly captured the day without being intrusive or demanding, and we felt she managed to capture every single moment that brought us joy,” commented Tara. At the end of their celebration, Tara and Joe escaped to Italy and Africa for their honeymoon, where they visited the Amalfi Coast, Mauritius, and Cape Town.

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In The Spotlight Ceremony & Reception Location: Westhampton Bath & Tennis Club Officiant: Rabbi Mallamy Caterer: Robbins Wolfe Eventeurs Wedding Coordinator: Unforgettable Hamptons Events Photographer: Shira Weinberger Videographer: Exo Photography Entertainment: Hank Lane Music & Productions Florist: House of Flowers Limousine Service: Capricorn Limousines Cake Designer: Martineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fine Bake Shoppe Bridal Salon & Veil: Wedding Atelier Shoes: Christian Louboutin Formal Attire: Joseph Abboud Invitations: Passion Paper Favors: Pashminas & Sandals Hair Salon: DM Luxury Makeup Artist: Denny Jeweler: Cartier Photo Booth: Photobooths by NY Digital Memories Dove Release: Lasting Memories by Sharon Honeymoon Location: Amalfi Coastâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Italy & Africa

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RIVIERA

Beautiful dining room, lounge and bar. Great for engagements, anniversaries and small intimate weddings.

113 Main Street â&#x20AC;˘ Matawan, NJ

732.566.8400 www.larivieraloungenj.com

10% 104

off on your next event or party ContemporaryBride.com

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Exquisite Catering With A Personal Touch

1550 Route 9 South Old Bridge, NJ 08857 www.GrandMarquisCaterers.com

Phone: (732) 679-5700 Fax: (732) 679-7209 GrandMarquis@hotmail.com

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HOW-TO

Tiffany Men’s Band Rings Tiffany & Co. (800) 843-3269

Hubby

s Groome’s this on ! for you

Carefully tear this article out and tuck it away for safekeeping. On your first anniversary, take it out to see just how well you’re doing. Five years later, take it out again. We’re never too old or too perfect to brush up on the simple steps to keep a successful marriage going strong. Now go ahead and plan your bachelor party, but remember rule number three: One day she might ask you to share just how much you fun you had on that shore-bound party bus. Best of luck and Happy Hubby’ing!

Respect the Vows–The Ones You Said and Agreed to Keep Soon you’ll promise to love and honor your fiancé for all the days of her life. Be sure these are not just words said, but felt with love and honesty, not to be taken lightly. Your marriage should always come first and be built on a foundation of love, trust, and fidelity. As a husband and perhaps father one day, your life will always be busied with careers, friends, family, hobbies, sports…the list could and will go on and on, but at the end of the day, your marriage should be the most important part of your world and continuously nurtured.

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By Lisa Biviano

First, congratulations on your recent engagement. Now that the nerves of creating the most unique proposal have been calmed and the gorgeous ring you’ve chosen for your now fiancé sits happily upon her freshly manicured hand, you can now shift your focus to ties, tuxedos, and the muchanticipated bachelor party. But, before you get caught up in the bliss of creating beautiful wedding moments and memories with friends, family, and most importantly, your fiancé, there’s one thing you might want to brush up on before tying the knot. And that is…just how to go about Hubby’ing. You’ve been lucky enough to have found your other half. Perhaps you’ve searched high and low for her, or maybe she was your sweetheart from the time you were both old enough to walk home from school together. Either way, the rules still remain the same, and we’re here to make your transition from most eligible bachelor to world’s best husband. After speaking with several married men, newlyweds, recently engaged couples, and those dating, we found that being a good husband–or what we like to call “Hubby’ing”–was expressed simply as a man who has no boundaries. He loves unconditionally and with his whole self while always putting his wife and family first. For the more detailed version, continue on for the top seven rules to live by.

Be Her Sounding Board Let her know you have her back, no matter what. If something is weighing on her mind, let her know she can share it with you; never let questions or concerns fester. Allow her to feel that you will always be her number one fan and the person she can come to with anything and solve anything with. Word to the wise (perhaps highlight this): Sometimes she will just want you to be there and listen, not create an Excel spreadsheet organizing all the top ways she should go about solving her current conundrum. Just being there to listen and offer the support of an unbiased heart will go a long way.

Share Your life and her life are intertwined. Believe it or not, she cares how your day was and wants to have open lines of communication. She is the one person who wants to hear about the water-cooler conversations at work and about how annoyingly arrogant your boss might be. She wants to hear your stories, your dreams, and your fears. This is why you got married in the first place–to have someone to walk through every moment of life with. It’s all safe with her.

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Work Smart; Work Hard Women are attracted to men who can share in the providing, protecting, and nurturing aspect of marriage. While most women can often provide for themselves, they love a man who can do so equally. There is no better feeling than knowing your hard work and smart decisions are what help keep your marriage running successfully smooth. Make smart career decisions that are no longer based on just you, but for the both of you. Longer hours, more projects, and more clients may be a sacrifice that might need to be made for a while, but if done with strategized planning, it can be a short-term arrangement for a long and happy marriage.

Tiffany 1837™ Cuff Links Tiffany & Co. (800) 843-3269

The Hugo Boss Collection www.kleinfledmen.com

Show Her Affection Not every affectionate moment should be in the bedroom. While women enjoy those romantic moments just as much as you do, a good husband finds time for cuddling, sweet kisses, and simple signs of love. Sometimes a quick compliment, love tap, and kiss on the nose will be enough to make her day. Bottom line: Learn how to read your wife. Not every night is a lights-out, doors-closed kind of evening. Age-old romance never goes out of style.

ContemporaryBride.com

It’s a Team Effort There’s a reason why you decided not to remain single. Create long-and short-term goals that you both can work toward reaching together. Whether it’s to purchase a house in a few years, buy a dog, start a family, or whatever it might be, working together makes for a confident and hardworking couple. Don’t have goals yet? Take some time to sit down and have a heart-to-heart with your fiancé. Get on the same page. Building a life with someone means deciding how each of you is going to contribute to your overall happiness.

Show Her How It’s Done Marriage is about learning from one another and bringing value to each of your lives. Don’t always think that simply telling your wife you love her is enough; show her that you do. Support her wants and needs and spend a little time each day showing her exactly how great of a hubby you are. Surprise her with flowers or her favorite take-out. Vacuum and clean the house so she comes home to a stress-free zone. Do something that means something special just to the two of you. Hey, she might even pick up a few tips from you and start being spontaneous back–always a plus!

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and the

Sign

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Photography credits clockwise from top left: John Arcara Photography; John DeFiora Photography; Majestic Entertainment; John Arcara Photography; Contemporary Image; Daniel J Photography; Infinity Photography Inc.; Shira Weinberger.

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FOR AN AFFAIR WHICH WILL LAST A LIFETIME

Verdi’s of Westbury is a family owned catering hall that has gained a reputation for serving outstanding cuisine while providing impeccable service. Come and experience the warmth and elegance that surrounds you at Verdi’s of Westbury.

INTRODUCING THE NEW TOSCA BALLROOM

VERDI’S OF WESTBURY

VERDI’S OF WHITESTONE

Weddings & Banquets 680 OLD COUNTRY ROAD WESTBURY, NY 11590

Restaurant & Banquets 149-58 CROSS ISLAND PARKWAY WHITESTONE, NY 11357

516.334.4552 718.746.6000

WWW.VERDIS.COM

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lena&christopher July 20, 2012 Crystal Ballroom at the Radisson Hotel Freehold, NJ Lena and Christopher were only fifteen when they met during the Babe Ruth Little League World Series. “I definitely had a crush on Lena when I met her, but she was already dating one of my best friends,” commented Christopher. Although the two remained friends up until college, it wasn’t until September of 2010 that they were reconnected through a mutual friend. Soon after they began dating, it didn’t take long for Lena to realize Christopher was the one. “I let him slip past when we were fifteen, and I wasn’t willing to do that at twenty-five. We got along so perfectly, and he always made me laugh. Being around him was addicting, and I felt as though I never had to try. Our relationship came naturally,” Lena reminisced. When the engaged couple began planning their wedding, they knew they wanted to exchange vows during the summer. Choosing July 20, 2012 was an easy decision, as they not only love the climate and vibrant colors during this time of year, but they were able to avoid holiday weekends and other upcoming family events. Lena walked down the aisle of Saint Anthony's Catholic Church wearing a Maggie Sottero gown with a shoulder-length veil and white satin shoes. She carried a bouquet of white and lilac roses adding just a touch of color to her wedding day look. Christopher matched his bride by wearing a classic two-button tuxedo with a white vest and shirt. His groomsmen too coordinated with the bridesmaid’s purple, floor-length Bill Levkoff dresses. Chosen for its accommodating staff, a large ballroom to hold their guest list comfortably, and the ease of having on-location accommodations, the reception was held at The Crystal Ballroom at the Radisson Hotel of Freehold. Additionally, Lena and Christopher liked how the facility was in close proximity to their ceremony location. “We didn’t want our guests to have to travel too far in between,” Christopher commented. “The staff was there to answer any and all of my questions no matter what time of day I called or emailed. I always got a fast response, and they were always willing to be cooperative,” added the bride. From the wedding preparations throughout the ceremony and reception, 217 Photography captured special moments in a natural approach. The couple liked how Pete’s photography was slightly edgy, original, but still classic. The couple was also impressed working with First Floor Films, who caught the day’s events on film. At the end of the reception, Lena and Christopher escaped to the all-inclusive, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in the Dominican Republic for their honeymoon. They are currently expecting their first child and look forward to the next chapter in their lives.

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church Celebrant: Deacon Jim Knipper Reception Location: Crystal Ballroom at the Radisson Hotel Photographer: 217 Photography Videographer: First Floor Films Entertainment: DJ Available Florist: Petal Pushers, Inc. Limousine Service: Platinum Limo Cake Designer: Chocolate Carousel Bridal Salon: The Bridal Suite Headpiece & Veil: Illusions Shoes: Zappos Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Michael’s Favors & Photo Booth: Go Festive Hair Salon: Headways Salon Makeup Studio: Unforgettable Faces Jeweler: David’s Bridal Honeymoon Location: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino–Punta Cana, DR

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The Terrace Coming Spring 2013

Celebrate Your Special Day in an Intimate Setting! From a lavish sit down wedding, to a casual buffet, we tailor a party that's perfect just for you!!!

299 Paramus Road Paramus, NJ 07652 www.biagios.com 201-652-0201

Lake Valhalla Club 13 Vista Road • Montville, NJ 07045

C When visiting our vendors, don’t forget to mention that you saw their advertisement in

CONTEMPORARY BRIDE® MAGAZINE!

For the moment, venture back to a time of past, where a traditional wedding was held overlooking a picturesque 90-acre lake in a room of cathedral ceilings, stone fireplaces and hardwood floors, surrounded by mountains and waterfalls. You have found us! This beautiful private club can accommodate your special day.

973-334-3190 • www.lakevalhallaclub.com

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Exquisite Ambience, Superb Service and Gourmet Cuisine 23A Nelson Avenue Staten Island, NY 718-967-4034 www.Grand-Plaza.com

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juliana&alex September 1, 2012 Elite Palace • Woodside, NY Although Juliana and Alex only dated for about six months, they knew after their first date on July 24, 2011, they would one day wed. “We just started planning our futures together instantly and didn’t think much about it. In my parents’ words, they constantly repeated, there was something special about Alex from the moment I introduced him to them. The family theory is that they knew way before I did that Alex was the one,” Juliana shared. After booking a vacation to Cancun, Mexico, Alex thought this would be the perfect opportunity to ask for Juliana’s hand in marriage. “When we planned the trip, it was just supposed to be a relaxing time for the two of us to bring in the New Year. To me, it was just that,” reminisced Juliana. As the two were enjoying the hotel party, Alex asked Juliana to step aside so they could watch the fireworks together. Once the clock struck midnight, Alex got down on one knee and proposed with a solitaire engagement ring. Chosen for its grand architecture, state-of-the-art lighting and sound system, paired with the ability to accommodate a Russianstyled menu, the ceremony and reception were held at Elite Palace. “Elite Palace blew us away with the interior design and décor,” noted Alex. “We really loved that we were able to utilize the entire facility for our wedding day,” added the bride. The ceremony was decorated beautifully, which provided a warm and welcoming environment for guests. Juliana walked down a white aisle runner lined with flower petals. She wore an ivory trumpet-style gown designed by Sareh Nouri. A silk flower headpiece from Bridal Styles Boutique, a cathedral-length veil, and Benjamin Adams peep-toe shoes completed her look flawlessly. Following a heartfelt ceremony, the newlyweds, along with their guests, enjoyed a lavish cocktail hour offering various European selections. Dinner began with hot and cold appetizers followed by entrée choices of grilled sea scallops, grilled salmon steak, lamb chops, rib eye steak, and chicken Kiev, all of which were served family style. In addition to a traditional four-tiered, intricately detailed wedding cake, guests indulged in assorted fruits, a chocolate fondue station, and an ice-cream bar. After Juliana and Alex made their grand entrance into the ballroom on a moving platform, which was the bride’s favorite memory of the day, Alexis Band got the party started. The five-person band played live entertainment throughout the entire event and kept guests on their feet due to their high-energy performances. From the morning preparations, to the ceremony, and throughout the reception, David from Greyline Photography captured the special moments in a photojournalistic style. Juliana and Alex agreed they enjoyed working with David. “He is extremely talented and exudes confidence,” the bride shared. “Although it was a little grueling running throughout Brooklyn before the wedding, the pictures we got in the end were definitely worth it,” added Alex. The couple was equally pleased working with Orange Films, who caught the day’s events on film. At the end of the celebration, the newlyweds escaped on a romantic honeymoon in Santorini, Greece.

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In The Spotlight Ceremony & Reception Location: Elite Palace Officiant: Cantor Vadim Yucht Photographer: Grey Line Photography Videographer: Orange Films Entertainment: Alexis Band Florist: Sunshine Flowers Limousine Service: NJ Limousine & Limobus Cake Designer: Elite Palace Bridal Salon: Exquisite Bride Veil: Toni Federici Headpiece: Bridal Styles Boutique Shoes: Benjamin Adams Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas Favors: Custom M&M’s Hair Salon: Gemini Hair Studio Makeup Studio: Olga’s Faces Jeweler: Yamina & Co. Honeymoon Location: Astra Suites–Santorini, Greece

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Sweet Dreams are made of this..

Ron Ben-Israel Cakes www.weddingcakes.com The Cake Studio www.occakestudio.com The Fine Art of Cakes www.fineartofcakes.com

Sweet Sweet Sueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s www.sweetsweetsues.com

The Hudson Cakery www.hudsoncakery.com

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From simple and sweet to delectable towering tiers, wedding cakes take center stage this 2013 season. While couples have endless options to choose from, expect to see gorgeous designs this year, including the ever romantic trend of lace. Versatile in style, this design gives the perfect combination of dimension and elegance, allowing cake designers to satisfy the traditional, vintage, or modern bride. Indulge in these wedding cake designs that are sure to be love at first bite and leave guests with wonderful everlasting memories of your wedding day.

Pink Cake Box www.pinkcakebox.com

Sweet Grace Cake Designs www.sweetgrace.net CMNY Cakes www.CMNYcakes.com

Made In Heaven Cakes www.madeinheavencakes.com

Chocal8Kiss www.chocal8kiss.com

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The Cake Studio www.occakestudio.com

Jarets Stuffed Cupcakes www.stuffedcupcakes.com

Made In Heaven Cakes www.madeinheavencakes.com

Ron Ben-Israel Cakes www.weddingcakes.com

The Fine Art of Cakes www.fineartofcakes.com

Cakes by Nicolle www.cakesbynicolle.com

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Sweet Dreams

Heather Barranco Dream Cakes www.heatherbarranco.com CMNY Cakes www.CMNYcakes.com Pink Cake Box www.pinkcakebox.com

Cake Alchemy www.cakealchemy.com The Hudson Cakery www.hudsoncakery.com

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See more Cake Inspirations on the Wedding Inspirations blog at ContemporaryBride.com

We specialize in custom cakes, pastries, wedding cakes, and 3-D sculpted cakes, from the most traditional to the most unique, with quality service and the freshest ingredients. Serving NY, N,J and beyond, we combine fine baking with visual artistry and offer specialty and sheet cakes, mousse cakes, handmade pastries, mini-pastries, pies, and cookies. For high quality 3D cakes or stunning finely crafted fondant cakes, perfect for a sophisticated celebration, A Little Cake is the answer.

201-391-6300 www.alittlecake.com 94 Berthoud Street â&#x20AC;˘ Park Ridge NJ Cake by Made in Heaven Cakes - www.madeinheavencakes.com

groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s delight

1. Sweet Grace Cake Designs (www.sweetgrace.net); 2. Made In Heaven Cakes (www.madeinheavencakes.com); 3. Pink Cake Box (www.pinkcakebox.com); 4. Cake Alchemy (www.cakealchemy.com)

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Country Western 1 2

1. Display your grace, agility, trust, and belief with the Calliope wedding invitation that never fails to amaze and delight. www.royalsteamline.com 2. Chiara by Elizabeth St. John is a tank style silk taffeta ball-gown with asymmetrical tiers, tulle, ruffles and handmade flowers along with a sweeping train. www.elizabethstjohn.com 3. Three-tiered Wedding Cake with quilted pattern, roses, and ribbon-bow topper. www.cmnycakes.com 4. Add an extra splash of chic to your country wedding with these Engraved Old-Fashioned Drink Jars; Perfect for

ContemporaryBride.com

serving ice-cold lemonade or sweet tea (a country favorite). www.beau-coup.com 5. Show off your cowgirl style and opt to wear classic ivory Sahara Boots. www.satnspurs.com 6. Mini Cowboy Hats can be used as place card holders, favors, or decorations. www.beau-coup.com 7. Top your wedding cake off with a Gettin' Hitched Cake Top made of rustic wood complete with a tiny hay bale, Western hat, a pair of luck horseshoes, and paper roses. www.invitationsbydawn.com

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megan&mark August 4, 2012 Crystal Point Yacht Club • Point Pleasant, NJ Megan and Mark met at Connolly Station, a local bar in Belmar. Although it was a favorite bar for both, it wasn’t until August 2009 that they officially met. “Every Thursday that summer I went out for pizza with my sisters and cousins. That night we went to the bar afterwards for Irish night,” reminisced Megan. As she was drinking an Irish cider called Magners, Mark asked what it was, and they began talking. Two years later, while on the Aran Islands in Ireland, Mark proposed. “I was completely shocked!” exclaimed Megan. They celebrated and spent the week with her family, then traveled to Scotland for four days. Guests were introduced to Megan and Mark’s nautical theme wedding with invitations featuring a Galway Hooker-style sailboat and a Belmar beach badge image on one of the cards. In addition to introducing their theme, the couple was also able to show guests a little about their lifestyle, including Mark’s love of sailing and their love of living on the Jersey shore. When the couple visited the Crystal Point Yacht Club for the first time, they were immediately impressed by the water view in the ballroom. Megan and Mark also liked the warm and welcoming staff, noting they made a great impression when they asked about their personal story. “It wasn’t hard to imagine our wedding there. The staff was very receptive to what we wanted. Having many [menu] options was really important for us, and they did a great job making that happen,” noted Mark. As Megan walked down the aisle of Saint Rose Church, her uncle played the bagpipes, making their ceremony even more special. The bride wore a sweetheart-style gown with side draping and a champagne ribbon with beaded appliqué. The groom sported a light tan suit. Following the ceremony, guests headed to Crystal Point Yacht Club for the reception, while the newlyweds and bridal party took pictures with the help of Stephanie Jones Photography. Stephanie captured the day in a photojournalistic style that allowed Megan and Mark to enjoy the moment. Pictures were taken on the Belmar boardwalk, and they even visited Connolly Station, the location where they first met. Guests were served a variety of options during cocktail hour, including a mashed potato bar that was a huge hit with guests. Rather than a traditional sit-down reception, Megan and Mark opted for a buffet that allowed guests to eat in a more relaxed environment. For dessert, guests were treated to a chocolate and coffee station, in addition to the cannoli and chocolate cream wedding cake. Following the newlywed’s first dance to “If I Should Fall Behind” by Bruce Springsteen, The Snakes Band got the party started. After hearing the band a few years prior on Saint Patrick’s Day, the couple knew they wanted them to play at their wedding. They played a variety of music, including Irish, oldies, and rock, that had guests on the dance floor the entire night. At the end of the reception, Megan & Mark escaped to Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island in Montego Bay, Jamaica for their honeymoon.

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: Saint Rose Church Celebrant: Monsignor Edward Arnister Reception Location: Crystal Point Yacht Club Photographer: Stephanie Jones Photography Videographer: Videos by Trish Entertainment: The Snakes Band Florist: Wildflowers Limousine Service: Long Branch Trolley Company Cake Designer: Tinton Falls Pastry Chef Bridal Salon: David’s Bridal Headpiece: Foolish Ginger Shoes: Pink Formal Attire: Tuxedo Junction Invitations: Printed by Concord Companies Favors: Brewer’s Apprentice Hair Salon: Pink Comb Salon Makeup Artist: Orietta Leva Jewelers: MDZ Diamonds, Jared’s The Galleria of Jewelry, and Earth Treasures Honeymoon Location:Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island–Montego Bay, Jamaica

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1. Swarovski Pearl and Rhinestone Bridal Bracelet www.roxysjewelry.com

5. Elise Robe and Slip www.cosabella.com

2. Brent Black and White Garter www.lagartier.com

6. Emerald Regal Satin Garter www.gartersbykristi.com

3. Triple Strand Pearl Necklace Tiffany & Co. (800) 843-3269

7. Moonlight Chemise www.pleasurestatelingerie.com.au

4. Cloudswing Chemise www.ellemacphersonintimates.com

8. The Bride Satin Robe and The Mrs. Short www.inbloombyjonquil.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: The Studio Photographers (800) 439-6178 www.thestudiophotographers.com BRIDAL GOWNS PROVIDED BY: Exquisite Bride (973) 376-2770 www.exquisite-bride.com Kleinfeld Bridal (646) 633-4300 www.kleinfeldbridal.com FLOWER GIRL GOWNS PROVIDED BY: Exquisite Bride (973) 376-2770 www.exquisite-bride.com Macis Design (732) 246-2988 www.macisdesign.com HEADPIECES AND ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Bridal Styles Boutique (718) 339-3222 www.bridalstylesboutique.com MAKEUP ARTISTRY PROVIDED BY: Tim Alan Make-up Artist (732) 718-1144 www.timalan.net HAIR DESIGN PROVIDED BY: La Sorella Bridal (201) 452-8728 www.lasorellabridal.com FLOWERS PROVIDED BY: Lotus Petals Floral Design, LLC (973) 762-3525 www.petalsdesign.com

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Sareh Nouri Bridal Gown and Private Label Flower Girl Dress available at Exquisite Bride.

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Mark Zunino Gown available at Kleinfeld Bridal.

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Sareh Nouri Gown available at Exquisite Bride.

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Dennis Basso Gown available at Kleinfeld Bridal.

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Pnina Tornai Gown available at Kleinfeld Bridal. Private Label Flower Girl Dress available at Exquisite Bride.

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Sareh Nouri Gown available at Exquisite Bride.

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Sareh Nouri Gown and Private Label Flower Girl Dress available at Exquisite Bride.

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Augusta Jones Gown available at Kleinfeld Bridal.

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Bridal Styles Custom-Designed Headpieces for the One-of-a-Kind Bride

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Gorgeous Bride New York is an extraordinary team of professional hair and make-up artist available for all your beauty needs. From classic, retro, modern, or high fashion, we take pride in making your special day flawless! We encourage you to have a trail run. This will give you the ability to speak with the stylist about your vision and see the finished masterpiece before your wedding day to ensure perfection. The options are limitless and if you need a little inspiration , we have an extensive portfolio for review. Creating a look that will make your special day memorable not only then, but in photos that will last a life time. On location services are available (home, hotel, or venue) and we accommodate any and all bridal party sizes. The options are limitless! 57 West 57th Street. Suite 1106 New York, NY 10019 Phone: 212-481-4990

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Visit us online at www.GorgeousBrideNY.com or call us

Saying "I do" fills your heart with joy and your eyes with tears... Even the most expensive mascara can run or flake, wreaking havoc on your picture-perfct bridal beauty. Semi-premanent eyelash extensions by Lash Concepts give you long, thick luscious lashes without the worry! Our certified lash stylist practices industry leading techniques and uses only award winning Xtreme LashÂŽ products.

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1. Allison Silk Box Invitation www.revelryinvitations.com 2. Pnina Tornai Gown - Style 4212 www.pninatornai.com 3. Tiffany Anniversary Morganite Necklace Tiffany & Co. (800) 843-3269 4. Peach Bows and Robbons Wedding Cake www.cmnycakes.com

5. Modern Crystal Bow Earrings with Teardrop www.perfectdetails.com 6. Satin and Lace Bow Garter - Style 270 www.thegartergirl.com 7. Twist Bow Clutch www.etsy.com/shop/DavieandChiyo

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Flawless www.macadamiahair.com

Luminess Tan Airbrush System www.luminesstan.com

Fake Bake and Camera Shy LED Gel Polish www.redcarpetmanicure.com

City Chic Smokey Eye Kit www.mallybeauty.com

EOS Sphere Lip Balm www.evolutionofsmooth.com

Becca Radiant Skin Satin Finish Foundation www.sephora.com

No Tangle Pre-Styler Set www.macadamiahair.com

Moroccan Oil Hydrating Essentials - Shampoo & Conditioner www.moroccanoil.com

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Embrace your natural beauty in the 2013 season with neutral-color palettes and radiant skin. From natural lashes to muted lips and nude-toned nails, this year, the focus is on au-naturale for a minimalist and effortless look. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re attending your engagement party, bridal shower, or getting ready to walk down the aisle, you will surely be a blushing bride with these must-have products. 10

Photo Finish Foundation Primer and Hydrating Under Eye Primer www.smashbox.com

10. Mineral Fusion Lip Gloss in Dazzle and Sheen www.mineralfusion.com 11. Eye Shadow Trio in Auto Expose www.smashbox.com 12. Dolce & Gabbana Animalier Signature Collection www.saks.com ContemporaryBride.com

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Breathtaking Brides www.timalan.net 732.718.1144

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1. Coach Poppy Blossom www.coach.com

4. Vince Camuto Eau De Parfum www.vincecamuto.com

7. Viva La Juicy La Fleur www.macys.com

2. Dolce & Gabbana Pour Femme www.saks.com

5. Michael Kors GOLD Rose Edition www.michaelkors.com

8. Forever Red Eau de Parfum www.bathandbodyworks.com

3. Wonderstruck Enchanted www.macys.com

6. pureDKNY Available exclusively at Ulta

9. SĂŠxual Fleur Eau de Parfum Spray www.michelgermain.com

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Love,

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Five Steps to Writing a Memorable Wedding Toast By Meghan Chalfant

Photo by Stark Studios

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While the bride and groom may be weak in the knees as they see each other for the first time as she walks down the aisle, the best man and maid of honor (MOH) may be just as anxious, but of course for a different reason. Although these roles boast key responsibilities, including toasting to the newlyweds, the best man and MOH have the opportunity to give a memorable speech that can warm the room when done right. So, before you become tongue-tied, avoid awkward moments and prepare an eloquent and heartfelt toast with these five steps to writing a memorable wedding toast. Here’s to raising your glass and creating an unforgettable moment that the new Mr. and Mrs. are sure to appreciate.

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Begin early. Waiting until the last minute or “winging it” the day of is a cause for alarm. There’s a chance that you will not only embarrass yourself, but also make those around you feel awkward with long periods of silence if you’re not sure what to say. Take the time to write something special; after all, they’re either family or your best friends. This is the time to show how much you care about them.

Write down your thoughts and make sure all ideas flow together. Keeping your toast short will maintain your guests’ interest. Like all written assignments, your speech should include an introduction, middle, and conclusion. Begin by introducing yourself and how you know the couple. (Remember, not everyone will know who you are, other than the fact that you’re part of the bridal party due to your wedding attire.) Don’t forget to thank the people hosting the celebration.

Include personal anecdotes. These should include stories that reflect good times and that everyone can relate to. Leave out accounts of old romances or tales that have the potential to humiliate the guests of honor, and omit inside jokes that will leave guests lost. You would hate for “crickets” to fill the air rather than the laughs you hoped for.

Speak confidently. Rehearsing out loud and knowing your content will allow you to communicate your thoughts more clearly without having to read straight from your paper.

Photo by Milton Gil Photography

Address the bride and groom. Be sure to wish the newlyweds well and a happy future together. Incorporate personal advice or a quote from literature, song lyrics, or a poem. Conclude your speech with the final gesture of asking guests to raise their glasses to toast to the couple.

Not quite sure how to wish the couple a happy future or how to conclude your speech? Here are a few of our favorite quotes: An Irish wedding blessing: “May God be with you and bless you. May you see your children’s children. May you be poor in misfortune, rich in blessings. May you know nothing but happiness from this day forward.” “May your marriage be like fine wine, getting better and better with age.” “Live long, laugh often, love much.” “May your hands be forever clasped in friendship and your hearts forever joined in love.” “Here’s to love, laughter, and happily ever after.” “Let’s raise our glasses to the new Mr. and Mrs. and celebrate tonight, for life is short but sweet for certain.”

Photo by The Studio Photographers

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1. Dolce & Gabbana Pour Homme www.saks.com

4. Classic Lighter www.zippo.com

2. Charcoal Chambray Bow Tie www.etsy.com/shop/FoxandBrie

5. Atlas Collection Tiffany & Co. (800) 843-3269

3. Custom Made John Kochis Neckties www.henrydavidsen.com

6. Stainless Steel Wallet www.uncommongoods.com

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7. Lucida Diamond Pendant and Cuff Links Tiffany & Co. (800) 843-3269

10. Black Autodromo Vallelunga Watch www.redenvelope.com

8. Vince Camuto Eau De Toilette www.vincecamuto.com

11. Sapphire Necktie www.etsy.com/shop/FoxandBrie

9. The Hugo Boss Collection www.kleinfledmen.com

12. Bicycle Cuff Links www.etsy.com/shop/IrmaBean

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Hi, I’m Stacy Lawrence... For the last 25 years, I’ve been helping people make an impression. Whether it be a wedding, a bar mitzvah,or a milestone party, I believe the fun should start with the planning. Let’s get together in my showroom. I’ll help you find the perfect invitation or help you plan the whole shebang.

custom invitations & stationery personal attention to each detail

Party Planning • Invitations • Favors Theme Decorations • Specialty Entertainment

www.rsvp-to-me.com • 201-825-RSVP

792 Kinderkamack Rd, River Edge, NJ

Allendale, New Jersey • Nyack, New York

P: 201-261-2777 • F: 201-261-6077 www.yourpartyexpert.com

See more Invitation Styles on the Wedding Inspirations blog at ContemporaryBride.com

Zenadia Design - www.zenadiadesign.com

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Photo by Stark Studios

Photo by Abbey Photographers

Photo by Studio Uno

Jaynee’s Party Designer Invitations for Weddings and Special Events We have an established reputation for the largest selection of custom wedding invitations announcements, social stationery and accessories in the metro area. Stunning invitations include scroll, boxed, intricate lace, pressed flowers, stone broaches, delicate fabrics. The most exquisite invitations imaginable.

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A “ s always, the best personalized service and discount pricing is our guarantee.” JAYNEE M. BUCCO CONSULTANT

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Top the night off after celebrating with a sweet send off compliments of Jaynee’s Party. Completely customized to offer what you want, from candy and chips to donuts and giant pretzels, your guests are sure to appreciate the treat to enjoy for their ride home. 601 Palisade Ave. • Englewood Cliffs, NJ • By Appointment • (201) 568-6717 • Fax: (201) 568-3448

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Clockwise from top: Zenadia Design (www.zenadiadesign.com); Hello! Lucky (www.hellolucky.com); Paper Olive (www.paperolive.com); RSVP-to-Me (www.rsvpto-me.com); Abbey Malcolm Press (www.abbeymalcolmpress.com)

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Sealed

Kiss

with a

Virtual Ideas For Physical Invitations By Brian Lawrence and Carly Prakapas

Abbey Malcolm Press (www.abbeymalcolmpress.com)

or generations, sending out wedding invitations has been one of the first traditions a couple shares together with their loved ones. Your beautifully crafted invitation is the first impression your guests will have of your special day. With carefully designed details, they let guests know what type of wedding you’re having, whether it is a formal, black-tie affair, a casual seaside celebration, or perhaps a quiet, intimate ceremony. With the emergence of websites that offer electronic invitations, brides now have the option to opt out of sending a physical invitation. While this may seem like a good way to save money and time spent creating a tangible

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invitation, the digital invitation lacks dimension, texture, and the warmth of human touch. “Your invitation is your guests’ first look at your wedding. You want them to see the thought, time, and effort you put into it,” explains Kelly Samm Adams, owner of RSVP to Me, which provides a unique service for customized invitations and stationery. “It’s not just a birthday party or Superbowl party. It’s your wedding. Take the time to show your family just how important this day is to you,” she says. Recipients should get the impression that you truly want to share this special day with them. Can you really get this message across with a digital invitation?

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Abbey Malcolm Press (www.abbeymalcolmpress.com)

Passion Paper (www.passionpaper.com)

Paper Olive (www.paperolive.com)

RSVP-to-Me (www.rsvp-to-me.com)

Couples and their families invest a great deal of time, money, and effort into creating the perfect wedding. The day you tie the knot is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and you want to make sure that all of your loved ones are in attendance to share this special day with you. Anticipation of the event cannot be underestimated. Sending a digital invitation diminishes the perception of elegance and does not create a sense of urgency to attend. Your invitation should excite your guests, paint a picture of your special day, and provide details so your loved ones can make the appropriate plans to join you on the day you say “I do.” Today’s brides have grown up on the Internet, and using social media or other online resources in the process of

preparing for a wedding is becoming commonplace. Abbey Malcolm, a nationally acclaimed invitation designer and owner of Abbey Malcolm Letterpress + Design, says that 21st-century brides are more design savvy than ever due to all of the wedding ideas they get from wedding-related blogs, TV shows, and websites such as Pinterest. “My brides keep me on my toes with their ever-changing ideas and themes,” she explains. “By offering various styles of printing, an endless array of embellishments, and the ability to design any motif imaginable, I aspire to take my clients’ vision and make it a reality!” Getting wedding ideas online is a great way to use the digital age to your advantage. Many people are connected to the Internet all day long, whether on their

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Lela NY (www.lelanewyork.com)

Revelry Invitation Studio (www.revelryinvitations.com)

Lela NY (www.lelanewyork.com)

smartphone, tablet, or computer. It is wonderful to use these easily accessible resources to your advantage, but sending invitations by email isn’t the best way to incorporate technology into your big day. There are many tasteful ways to add a touch of the virtual world to physical invitations without compromising their physical beauty. Have your guests RSVP online or via email, which allows for immediacy and efficiency, while saving paper and postage. Display a QR Code on a direction card that takes the guest to online directions. Perhaps you and your fiancé created a video about the day you met. You can share the link with your families and friends in your invitation. Jaynee Bucco, an experienced consultant and

owner of invitation design company Jaynee’s Party, recommends listing your wedding website or Facebook page on an insert card. “Many of my clients are doing this now. It’s a great way to keep in touch with your guests.” By sparking more interaction between your attendees, you can actually help build anticipation for your wedding, while sharing extra details with your loved ones. There are various mediums that can help you in your wedding planning and perhaps enhance your invitations by adding digital elements. Online invitations may not be the best way to incorporate technology into your special day, but adding digital aspects to your print invitation can really take your invitations to the next level!

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Men's Collection Bracelet - Style DB106 www.simongjewelry.com

2. Red ZL Encore Driver by Cobra Puma Golf www.cobragolf.com 3. Personalized Cap Catcher Bottle Opener www.etsy.com/shop/InnovationWorkshop 4. N The Skull Pendant www.swarovski.com 5. HD Video Camera Pen www.sharperimage.com 6. NFL Cufflinks www.thingsremembered.com

7. iPhone 4 & 4S Case www.thingsremembered.com 8.

Hand Warmer www.zippo.com

9. Brown Tri-Fold Wallet - Vachetta Leather www.giginewyork.com 10. Piazza Grande - Automatic, Black STS www.swarovski.com 11. "Customize It" Pocket Lighter www.zippo.com

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1. Passion Collection Pendant - Style PP114 www.simongjewelry.com

6. Ultimate Unwind Gift Set www.sincerely.com/sesame

2. Sophisticated Pierced Earrings www.swarovski.com

7. All In One Bag - Embossed Python www.giginewyork.com

3. Coral Chevron & Polka Dot Clutch www.oatmeallace.com

8. Golden Hearts Necklace www.lisaleonardonline.com

4. Necklaces from the Refinement Collection www.karenlindnerdesigns.com

9. Starlet Picture Frame www.swarovski.com

5. Personalized Bag Tags www.giginewyork.com

10. Tiffany Infinity Bracelet Tiffany & Co. (800) 843-3269

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tuned to Pachelbel's Canon in D

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Lili Alessandra Battersea Quilted Coverlet or Set www.laylagrayce.com

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Woodstock Wedding Chimes www.woodstockchimes.com

Fiesta 5-Piece Place Setting in Scarlet www.homerlaughlin.com

Lussino Ice Cream Machine www.surlatable.com

Custom Cake Forks www.lisaleonardonline.com

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countertop wine bar that chills and preserves opened wine

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Colorful Tervis Tumbler Mugs www.tervis.com

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Starbucks® Verismo™ Single-Cup Coffee and Espresso Maker www.surlatable.com

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Early Bird Khaki Cappuccino Cup & Saucer Set www.laylagrayce.com

12. The Cosmopolitan Collection www.baronessvonneumann.com

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vera&jason November 3, 2012 Glen Island Harbour Club • New Rochelle, NY

Leaning against an elegant railing overlooking the water, Jason took a deep breath of the fresh Long Island Sound air as he eagerly waited to see his beautiful bride. “I remember I had a huge smile on my face,” recalled Jason. Originally from Germany, Vera was working as an au pair in America. One night, as Vera waited for a friend at a local restaurant, Jason spotted her across the room. “I thought she was prettiest girl in the world, and she seemed like a lot of fun,” Jason explained. Jason simply asked Vera, “Hi, how are you,” and the beautiful love story began. After long phone calls from America to Germany, numerous trips, and sweet postcards sent back and forth, Jason proposed to Vera on a romantic trip to Niagara Falls. The couple tied the knot at the Glen Island Harbour Club. They knew right away that it was the perfect banquet facility for them. It was elegant, had a beautiful space for the ceremony, as well as the reception, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Long Island Sound. “I loved that I could get married overlooking the water, while still having an upscale celebration,” Vera recalled. She knew it was meant to be when she found out that the building was built to look like a German castle. On November 3rd, Vera’s parents’ 29th wedding anniversary, the couple said, “I do” at sunset overlooking the water. Vera walked down the aisle in a strapless, mermaid-style Lazaro wedding gown. She wore a fingertip-length veil and white gold squareshaped earrings, which were a gift from Jason that morning. After the ceremony, the guests enjoyed a lavish cocktail hour that included passed hors d’oeuvres, five food stations, including a special German “Novemberfest” station, and six cocktail drinks that were inspired by a European trip the couple took. The couple hired graphic designer Jen from Anthropologie Press Paper Goods

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to design coasters with a “quick guide to German,” which helped the two families communicate with one another. Following the cocktail hour, guests were led up the granite staircase to the reception space, where they enjoyed music from the band Metropolis, who kept everyone dancing throughout the night. For dinner, there was a choice of char-roasted sliced Chateaubriand or black sesame glazed filet of salmon. Guests raved about the dinner, saying it was some of the best food they ever had. Dessert was the icing on top of an already unforgettable evening. The beautiful wedding cake, made by the Glen Island Harbour Club, was a square, five-tiered yellow sponge cake with chocolate pudding and cannoli filling. Guests also enjoyed three chocolate fountains and a huge Viennese table. “They staff was very accommodating and attentive, without being pushy,” Vera reminisced. Jason agreed, saying that staff went above and beyond to make their day perfect. Actually, it was due to the staff’s dedication that the couple was even able to get married, when less than a week earlier, Hurricane Sandy devastated the area. The staff worked around the clock to repair the venue’s extensive damage, which included a flooded first floor with blown-in windows. On the day of the wedding, the banquet facility looked as good as new! The couple will honeymoon on a Norwegian Jewel cruise to the Caribbean. They look back on their wedding day as the best of their lives, but they look forward to “experiencing all of life’s adventures together.” ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony & Reception Location: Glen Island Harbour Club Officiant: Rev. Louis A. Olivieri, LUT, OVnI Photographer & Videographer: Infinity Photography Inc. Entertainment: Faze 4 Orchestras Florist: Arcadia Floral Company Limousine Service: Silver Star Limousine Cake Designer: Glen Island Harbour Club Bridal Salon: Bridal Reflections Veil: Etsy.com/shop/abusymother Shoes: Peter Kaiser Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Make an Impression Favors: Ingénàe Soap Works Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: Metamorphosis Jeweler: MA Jewelers Photo Booth: Dream Studio Photography Honeymoon Location: Norwegian Cruise Line

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patricia&christopher October 5, 2012 The Estate at Florentine Gardens • River Vale, NJ

Patricia and Christopher met at her cousin’s house prior to a night out with friends. Although they enjoyed the evening, it wasn’t until after Patricia graduated later that year that the two reconnected and pursued a relationship. Following a first date to the movies, they continued to see each other and officially began dating shortly after. “Throughout the years we shared many family gatherings, milestones, and achievements and always made incredible memories,” Patricia shared. Seven years from the day they began dating, Christopher asked Patricia to marry him outside on his parents’ deck and presented a princess-cut engagement ring to her. When the couple first visited The Estate at Florentine Gardens, they were immediately impressed by the stunning grounds and ballroom with large windows that overlook the gardens. In addition, they were warmly greeted by an attentive staff, and the couple knew they found the facility to host their wedding celebration. Watching Patricia walk down the aisle at Queen of Peace Church was Christopher's favorite memory of the day. The bride donned a Maggie Sottero ball gown with sweetheart neckline, pickup skirt, and corset-style back. The groom sported a traditional black tuxedo with white vest. The celebration began with a lavish cocktail hour offering various stations such as a seafood and sushi bar, sauté station, and a variety of passed hors d’oeuvres. Dinner began with a cucumberwrapped bouquet of organic greens, vine ripened red and yellow tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella. For the main entrée, guests were given a choice of Chateaubriand, stuffed chicken, or swordfish, all

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accompanied with shallot potatoes and grilled asparagus. Patricia and Christopher agreed the food was delicious and did a great job with every item on the menu. Guests were treated to an assortment of desserts, including homemade zeppoles, Belgium waffles served with vanilla ice cream, and death by chocolate, in addition to their hazelnut wedding cake designed by Palermo’s Bakery. Guests danced the night away during the reception with the help of Julian Romero of Majestic Entertainment. Through his high energy and knowledge of music, Julian was able to easily combine Spanish, Portuguese, and American songs that flowed perfectly. Patricia and Christopher held the spotlight to “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri and also participated in the traditional parent dances. At the end of the night, the newlyweds thanked their guests for being a part of their wedding day with Sutter Home wine bottles and also made donations to the American Cancer Society & Endometriosis Foundation of America in honor of their guests. When asked if they have any advice for couples who are planning their wedding, Patricia shared, “Planning a wedding can become stressful. Sometimes you just have to step back, hold your partner’s hand, and enjoy the journey.” Christopher added, “Have fun, enjoy each other, and remember the bigger picture of marrying your best friend.” ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: Queen of Peace Church Celebrant: Father Scott F. Attanasio Reception Location: The Estate at Florentine Gardens Photographer, Videographer, & Entertainment: Majestic Entertainment Florist: A&W Limousine Service: Santos VIP Limousine Cake Designer: Palermoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bakery Bridal Salon & Veil: Arleneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridal Salon Shoes: Rinaldi Shoes by Gina Formal Attire: Starlight Tuxedo Invitations: Melissa Pavlik Favors: Donations made to the American Cancer Society & Endometriosis Foundation of America Hair Salon & Makeup Artist: Ten Up Jewelers: Pacicco Jewelers & Vinhas Jewelers, Inc. Honeymoon Location: Playa del Carmen, Mexico

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Dare to Dream, Dream to Dance Your first dance as husband and wife is one of the most important dances of your life, in front of an audience of family and friends, recorded on video and in photos. We can help you to make your wedding dance lessons a memorable moment with the help of our private wedding choreography programs. Our wedding professionals choreographed thousands of unique wedding dances.

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Expressing Your Love Through Dance By Carly Prakapas

Photo by Abella Studios

It’s finally here. Today is your wedding day. You’re walking down the aisle feeling like a princess in a gorgeous wedding gown. You see your loved ones standing up and smiling at you. Cameras flash. You catch your soon-to-be husband’s eye, and it’s a moment you will never forget. His face lights up like you’ve never seen before. The ceremony is beautiful. The moments seem to fly by. One minute you’re sharing your first kiss as a married couple, and the next you are heading to the reception. Your emcee announces your entrance, and you walk onto the dance floor holding hands with your new husband. Cue the music.

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Photo by Allan Reider - Fred Astaire Dance Studio

The traditional first dance you share with your spouse is a milestone you will never forget. All of your loved ones are gathered around to see the happy newlyweds share the floor together. You want the love you feel towards one another to be reflected in your dancing. A nervous couple that isn’t in step together doesn’t show your guests what a great team you are. “When you look back at your wedding video, you want to see a beaming couple, dancing in rhythm together, in sync, and at ease with one another,” Michael Conklin, owner of Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Westfield, NJ, explains. Your wedding dance should illustrate your love for one another and show your guests that you truly are meant to be. You can work together, and you just seem to fit together. There are many studios in the New Jersey and New York area that can help you choreograph a beautiful wedding 174

dance your guests will be talking about for years to come. Find the studio that best suits your needs. Some studios offer wedding packages with specialized pricing to make lessons affordable to couples on a budget. You can choose to take group lessons if you are looking to learn in a party atmosphere, or private lessons if you would like more focused attention. Your choreographer will work with you and your fiancé to create a dance that complements your wedding song. Based on the song you select, your choreographer will not only teach you how to dance, but they will create a wedding dance customized for you. From the fox-trot to rumba, to the tango or a waltz, there are many styles that may be incorporated into your wedding dance, depending on the type of song you choose. “It isn’t for a competition, it’s for show. There are no specific rules, so we like to spice it up for entertainment, making it fun and ContemporaryBride.com

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Photos by Allan Reider - Top and bottom left: Ballroom Dream Dance Studio; Bottom Right: Fred Astaire Dance Studio

unique for each couple,” says Dasha Sushko, professional ballroom dancer and owner of Ballroom Dream Dance Studio, located in South River, NJ. It’s a good idea to begin your lessons about two months before the big day. This will give you enough time to get comfortable with the steps. Typically couples take about five to ten lessons with an instructor, while still leaving time to practice. In fact, many studios have practice sessions when any students can rehearse. Instructors are nearby to help out where needed. “Practice makes permanent” is Michael Conklin’s motto. You want to feel comfortable with what you have learned so you can relax and enjoy the moment on your wedding day. With the popularity of television shows like Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance, more people are exposed to ballroom dance, which has increased the number ContemporaryBride.com

of couples who take lessons for their big day. “They see these beautiful dances on TV, they fall in love with it, and they want to learn how to do it themselves,” Michael Conklin explains. If football players and actors can learn to dance, why can’t you? “Some of our students really surprise themselves with how quickly they can pick up the steps. They end up enjoying the classes so much that they continue taking them even after their wedding,” Dasha Sushko comments. Ballroom dance lessons are a great way to spend time with your fiancé, and taking a fun class together can really help relieve stress. An added bonus is that it gets you active, in case you are trying to shed some pounds before your big day. Take a dance class today, and ensure that your wedding day will be just as magical as you’ve always imagined. 175

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www.ContemporaryBride.com Check out the Wedding Inspirations Blog on ContemporaryBride.com Submit your wedding and get posted on our blog. Each week we feature a new real wedding with their photos and story. It could be you next! Browse through our inspiration boards to get ideas for your wedding including our hairstyles and headpieces gallery. Finding the perfect venue for your reception can be hard, but with our Venue Spotlights, we can help guide you in the right direction. From Tablescapes and Bouquets to Cakes and Gowns, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got you covered. Each day there is something new to see.

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1. Transit Token Cuff Links www.redenvelope.com

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olga&ian May 12, 2012 The Riverview • Hastings-on-Hudson, NY

It was through the help of a popular New York City website that brought Olga and Ian together. The two had profiles on the small personals section, and after coming across Ian’s page, Olga was not only interested, but made the first move. “I emailed him first and liked his sense of humor right away,” she shared. About four years following their first date, Ian took Olga to a sketch comedy show in which his group was scheduled to perform that evening. At the end of the show, Ian proposed on stage surrounded by their closest friends and family, with a vintage 1929 heirloom engagement ring. Chosen for its beautiful view of the Hudson River, overall décor, and accommodating staff, the ceremony and reception were held at The Riverview. Additionally, Olga and Ian liked the idea of having the day’s festivities all in one location, which made it easy for their guests. Olga walked down the aisle wearing a one-shoulder, Enzoani mermaid-style gown. A cathedral-length veil with Swarovski crystals, an intricate pearl and crystal hair comb, and Kate Spade shoes completed her look beautifully. The groom sported a traditional black tuxedo with ivory vest and tie, while the groomsmen coordinated with the bridesmaids, who wore Belsoie chiffon dresses in aubergine purple. During the outdoor ceremony the two exchanged promises, and Ian surprised all by reciting his vows in Russian. Guests enjoyed a lavish outdoor cocktail hour, including a variety of passed hors d’oeuvres, pasta station, carving station, wok station, and Italian antipasti display. For dinner guests had a

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choice of Chateaubriand bordelaise, grilled swordfish, chicken marsala, or a vegetarian option. “The food was amazing. There were very few things that we didn’t like at the tasting, and I couldn’t have been happier with our selected menu,” noted Olga. For dessert, guests were treated to wedding cake and a Viennese table that included assorted Italian pastries, cheesecake, blueberry pie, and an ice-cream station. After Olga and Ian performed a choreographed number for their first dance as husband and wife to “Someone Like You” by Van Morrison, Partytyme Entertainment got the party started. Their emcee for the night, Lou Vega, played a mix of genres and also incorporated Russian songs in honor of the bride’s heritage. In addition to music, Partytyme Entertainment also provided a gobo light, which displayed the couple’s names and wedding date on the dance floor. “Lou Vega kept everyone on their feet the whole night,” exclaimed the bride. Following the wedding reception, Olga and Ian continued to celebrate while on their European honeymoon, where they traveled to Tuscany, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast. They are currently enjoying each other’s company and look forward to traveling. ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony & Reception Location: The Riverview Officiant: Ali Farahnakian Photographer: Anna Rozenblat Photography Videographer: My Wedding Way Entertainment: Partytyme Entertainment Florists: Floral Design by Janet King & About Designs Limousine Service: Romantique Limos Cake Designer: Fleetwood Bakery Bridal Salon: Lord & Taylor Wedding Shop Veil: David’s Bridal Headpiece: USABride.com Shoes: Kate Spade Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Magnetstreet.com Favors: Personalized CDs Hair Stylist: Nadya Frantsuzova Makeup Artist: Veronika Robova Jeweler: Jewelry Palace Dance Lessons: Wedding Day Dance Honeymoon Locations: Tuscany, Rome, & Amalfi Coast

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Photography by Del Sol Photography

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1. Stylish Starfish Invitation www.weddingpaperdivas.com

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stephanie&robert August 18, 2012 The Versailles Ballroom at the Ramada of Toms River • Toms River, NJ

Stephanie and Robert met in high school during an intro to engineering design class. Following their initial fling, the two separated and reconnected after seeing each other in Walt Disney World while on family vacations. “We still had a strong connection after all those years apart. It was easy to be together, and we hit it off so well,” Stephanie shared. The morning after Hurricane Irene hit, Stephanie and Robert were watching the news when Robert changed the topic of conversation to weddings. Following his line of questions, Rob brought Stephanie to his bedroom, where he got down on one knee and proposed. The wedding day began early for the bride and her bridesmaids, who began getting ready at Nicole James Salon. Stephanie’s hair was styled swept to one side with big loose curls, while her makeup was applied in neutral tones to enhance the bride’s natural features. As the ladies continued with hair and makeup, the groom and his groomsmen got ready at his parents’ house. Stephanie walked down the aisle wearing an A-line lace gown with a chapel-length train. A scalloped-edge veil and a threestrand pearl necklace (borrowed from her grandmother) completed her look perfectly. The groom waited at the altar wearing a black tuxedo with white vest and bow tie. When it came time to choose a reception location, Stephanie and Robert knew they couldn’t pass up the irresistible Hotels Unlimited Black Friday sale. After seeing the Versailles Ballroom, they were impressed by the overall layout of the facility, as well as the space that would easily accommodate their large guest list. Cocktail hour began with a variety of passed hors d’oeuvres of asparagus phyllo wraps, black bean quesadillas, cocktail franks, coconut shrimp, and miniature crab cakes, in addition to a raw bar

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and antipasto display. Rather than a traditional sit-down meal, Stephanie and Robert opted for a cocktail-style reception with additional chef-attended stations, including a fajita station, smashed potato bar, Middle Eastern display, and more. Dancing for the first time together as newlyweds to “Do You Remember” by Jack Johnson was Stephanie and Robert’s favorite memory of the day. “It was just one moment where we could just be together without worrying about saying hello to guests,” noted the bride. Following the first dance, SCE Event Group got the party started and had guests dancing the entire night. From the wedding preparations throughout the ceremony and reception, John DeFiora Photography captured the special moments in a photojournalistic approach. “John is more of an artist than someone just taking portraits and documenting the event. Every aspect of each of his photos is there for a purpose,” commented Robert. In between dancing and socializing, guests were treated to a four-tiered chocolate wedding cake with Oreo truffle filling. A cookie and pastry tray was also placed on each table. Stephanie and Robert thanked their guests for being a part of their special day with mason jar favors that included the ingredients to make chocolate chip cookies. At the end of the reception, the newlyweds escaped to Hawaii for their honeymoon, where they visited Waikiki, Kauai, and Maui. Stephanie and Robert are currently looking forward to purchasing their first home. ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: The Bay Head Chapel Officiant: Dr. David Woher Reception Location: The Versailles Ballroom at the Ramada of Toms River Photographer: John DeFiora Photography Entertainment: SCE Event Group Florist: Peter James Floral Couture Limousine Service: New Concepts Limousine Cake Designer: Chocolate Carousel Bridal Salon, Veil & Shoes: David’s Bridal Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Birchcraft Favors: DIY Mason Jars Hair Salon: Nicole James Salon Makeup Artist: Debbie Cuoccio Jeweler: Kim’s Jewelers Honeymoon Locations: Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, and Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa–Hawaii

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rebecca&mike August 4, 2012 The Rosewood Caterers • Edison, NJ Mike noticed Rebecca right away when she walked into Café 34 in Matawan, New Jersey. “I was scanning the room and saw Mike sitting at a table by the dance floor. It was my mission that night to talk to him,” Rebecca reminisced. She went out on the dance floor (with her mom as her wing man), and tried to catch his eye. After spending some time dancing, Rebecca stepped outside to get some air. Mike walked out right behind her, and without hesitation he said hello. A week following their initial meeting, they went on their first date to Clydz in New Brunswick and the rest was history. Rebecca woke up on a Sunday morning in January to a text message from Mike and a single rose on the pillow next to her. As she followed rose petals down the hallway and stairs leading to the kitchen, Rebecca was surprised to not only see flowers and breakfast on the table, but a beautiful princess-cut engagement ring displayed in the cabinet. When Rebecca and Mike walked into The Rosewood Caterers, they were immediately impressed by the grand staircase, the balcony off the ballroom, and the staff’s attention to details. Additionally, they liked how the facility is centrally located, which made it easy for all guests to reach. The ceremony took place in the garden room, where Rebecca walked down the aisle wearing an ivory Oleg Cassini gown featuring an A-line silhouette and flower appliqués. Mike sported a traditional black tuxedo with light gold vest and tie. During the traditional ceremony, the couple opted for a unity wine ceremony, where they combined white and red wine into one glass to symbolize their union. Following the ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests headed upstairs for the cocktail hour, where they enjoyed an abundant display of various choices, including a wok station. Dinner began with melon and prosciutto, followed by the main entrée choice of Chateaubriand. Chocolate mousse with chocolate-covered strawberries was served for dessert, in addition to a vanilla wedding cake. Jeff and Ruth of J Paul Studios captured the day’s events in photography. Rebecca and Mike liked their easygoing personalities and how they kept the flow of the day seamless. Even though the couple saw each other in the morning, they met the guys at the hotel before heading to The Rosewood Caterers, where Rebecca and Mike had their first look. The couple always loved hearing DJ Manny play at local bars and clubs, and knew they wanted him to play at their wedding. Through his high energy and knowledge of music, DJ Manny the Greek from JTK Entertainment had guests dancing the entire night to a variety of songs. Rather than giving traditional favors, the couple made a donation to The Frances Foundation–an organization that is very important to the bride’s family. Rebecca and Mike are currently enjoying their time together and look forward to escaping on a honeymoon in the near future.

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In The Spotlight Ceremony & Reception Location: The Rosewood Caterers Officiant: Reverend John Michael Photographer: J Paul Studios Entertainment: JTK Entertainment Florist: Highland Park Florist Cake Designer: Tinton Falls Pastry Chef Bridal Salon: David’s Bridal Veil: Made by Bride Shoes: JCPenney’s Formal Attire: Dante Zeller Tuxedo & Menswear Invitations: Sign Tech LLC Favors: Donation to The Frances Foundation Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: Salon C'émone Jeweler: Ski Jewelers

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jenna&jeff July 13, 2012 Shadowbrook • Shrewsbury, NJ Jenna and Jeff met at work and got to know each other through their day-to-day jobs. “She was beautiful and fun to be around,” reminisced Jeff.

Following their first dinner date at Houlihan’s, they hit it off and spent the majority of their weekends of their first summer together out on Jeff’s boat. About four years later on Christmas Eve, Jeff gave Jenna an early Christmas present. He created a slideshow of various pictures throughout their relationship, and as she turned to face him, he was down on one knee asking Jenna to marry him. “He caught me completely off guard,” Jenna shared. The morning of the wedding began early for the bride, who got ready with her bridesmaids at her parents’ house. Jenna’s hair was styled in curls and loosely pulled back, while makeup was applied in neutral tones to enhance her natural beauty. While the ladies continued with hair and makeup, the groom began his morning by sending flowers to Jenna’s house and then got ready with his groomsmen and anxiously waited at the church. Watching Jenna walk down the aisle at The Church of the Sacred Heart was one of the groom’s favorite memories of the day. Jenna wore a fitted Maggie Sottero gown with corset-style bodice and full skirt. She carried a timeless bouquet of vendella roses. Built on 20-acres of formal gardens, the reception was held at the Shadowbrook. When the couple visited the facility for the first time, they were impressed with the overall décor, beautifully manicured landscape, and welcoming staff. “The staff was so accommodating and made our entire experience better than we could have ever hoped, from the minute we walked in to when we left [after] our reception,” shared the bride. Cocktail hour featured various options, including a wok and pasta station, passed hors d’oeuvres, and vegetable and cheese displays. For dinner, guests had a choice of Chateaubriand, rosemary herbed chicken breast, or north Atlantic salmon, all of which were served with potatoes and fresh vegetables. An international coffee station and pastries were served for dessert, in addition to the chocolate with raspberry wedding cake. Following the newlyweds’ first dance to “Then” by Brad Paisley, Mike Wieder of Ultimate Sound Disc Jockeys got the party started. He played a mix of genres that had guests dancing the entire night. Jenna and Jeff also participated in the traditional parent dances to “I Loved Her First” by Heartland and “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts. From the wedding preparations throughout the wedding, Creative Photography caught the special moments in photography and on film. “Our photographer, Ed Kedzierski Sr., was amazing to work with. His style is more traditional, but he catered to everything we wanted,” noted Jenna. At the end of the reception, the newlyweds escaped to Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort for their honeymoon. Jenna and Jeff are currently getting settled into their life together and look forward to eventually starting a family.

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: The Church of the Sacred Heart Celebrant: Father Dennis Apoldite Reception Location: Shadowbrook Photographer & Videographer: Creative Photography Entertainment: Ultimate Sound Disc Jockeys Florist: Eltingville Florist Limousine Service: Romantique Limousines Cake Designer: Shadowbrook Bridal Salon, Headpiece, & Veil: Kay Bridal Design Shoes: Fantasy Weddings by Anna Marie Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Family Friend Favors: Donations to Wounded Warriors and St. Jude’s Hair Salon: Headways Salon Jeweler: Jared, The Galleria of Jewelry & Kay Jewelers Honeymoon Location: Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort

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1. The Mackenzie Garter www.lagartier.com

4. Emerald Cut Blue Topaz Ring www.jupiterjewelry.com

7. Gold and Sterling Silver Bracelet www.vahanjewelry.com

2. Crown Necklace www.karenlindnerdesigns.com

5. Swarovski Pearl & Rhinestone Flower Headband www.fineandfleurie.com

8. Pink Spinel and Diamond Earrings Tiffany & Co. (800) 843-3269

3. Kiss of Karma Necklace www.blessedcharm.com

6. Long Pearl and CZ Dangle Earrings www.roxysjewelry.com

9. Silver Regal Satin Garter www.gartersbykristi.com

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n e t r a a M . t S in e n o e m o c e b o Tw

the

smallest island in the world to be shared by two sovereign powers (The Netherlands and France), St. Maarten provides a winning blend of Caribbean hospitality and European sophistication. Rolling hillsides, blue lagoons and breathtaking views are just a few reasons why so many visitors return every year to this island. With its half mile of natural beach and an array of nearby water sports, the Atrium Beach Resort & Spa by Festiva Resorts is practically paradise.

This quiet, beachfront resort overlooks the calm Caribbean Sea and is minutes from the glamorous nightlife and duty-free shopping of both the Dutch and French sides of the island. Adjoining the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pool area is the Greenhouse Restaurant, a mainstay on St. Maarten that features local and international cuisine. Check out their delicious lunch and dinner menu, and enjoy the beautiful sunset during happy hour. If tranquility, luxury, and a full-service staff are what you want, the Atrium Beach Resort & Spa is the place for you.

A trium R esort P.O. Box 1115 Simpson Bay, St. Maarten Toll Free 888-992-8748(6)

www.festiva-atrium.com

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Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Unforgettable Honeymoons in an Aruban Oasis By Meghan Chalfant 198

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Getting Married in

Aruba

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Fall under the spell of the warm Caribbean sun as the famous trade winds caress your skin and swaying palms and turquoise waters create a picture-perfect backdrop. Leave your worries behind and enjoy an oasis where you and your spouse can relish in the perfect combination of romance and adventure making Aruba one of the most ideal and favorite locales for honeymoons and destination weddings. With beautiful year-round tropical weather, pristine beaches, rich history, and endless activities, this “one happy island” has so much to offer. About Aruba Located in the southern Caribbean, the Dutch island of Aruba is located 18 miles north off the Venezuelan coast. All of Aruba’s drinking water comes from the ocean and is purified through the second largest desalinization plant in the world, making all of Aruba’s drinking water pure and safe for consumption from the tap. Ranking as one of the safest, cleanest, and with the highest return-visitor rate in the Caribbean at almost 60%, this island is one of the most popular destinations for both honeymooners and families. With clear skies, warm sunshine, and the refreshing trade winds, Aruba’s average temperature is 82 degrees with low humidity. On average, this island receives only about 16 inches of rainfall (mostly between October and January) and lies outside of the hurricane belt. While in Aruba, you are sure to meet the most hospitable, friendly people among approximately 100,000 inhabitants claiming over 96 distinct nationalities. Although the official languages are Dutch and Papiamento–a language drawn from Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, African dialects, and more–the Aruban people are multilingual; most also speak English and Spanish.

While legal ceremonies in Aruba must take place at the Civil Town House located in downtown Oranjestad, couples are welcome to have a second ceremony of their choice on the island. From simple to grand ceremonies, the Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino can set the stage for an unforgettable walk down the aisle. Exchange beachfront vows as turquoise waters create a tranquil backdrop and fragrant ginger lilies line the aisle of sugar-white sand during The Ginger Lily Ceremony. The Kunuku Traditional Ceremony offers an intimate experience to couples who wed under the kunuku house–“a traditional dwelling common to Aruban locals symbolizing the importance of tradition”–or create a seaside paradise with sea shells and tropical accents such as palm fronds, flowers, and tiki torches with The Aruban Treasured Ceremony. Additional à la carte services are also available for a customized experience. "Exuding tranquility on the dramatic setting above the sea", the picturesque Alto Vista Chapel is another popular locale to be swept off your feet during a romantic ceremony.

Alto Vista Chapel - Aruba Tourism Authority

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Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Where to Stay Perched on Aruba’s famous two-mile-long strip of white sand of Palm Beach is the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. Approximately seven miles from Queen Beatrix International Airport, this beachfront resort boasts luxurious amenities for the discerning traveler. The newly renovated Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino offers 411 oversized guest rooms, including 23 suites, with balconies featuring spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. All accommodations feature the latest in modern room décor utilizing state-of-the-art technology, including LCD televisions, Marriott’s indulgent Revive bedding, dual sink fixtures, and rain-style showerheads. The top adults-only floor of the facility is home to the Tradewinds Club–a boutique hotel in a resort setting that provides personal service and exclusive amenities. Guests will enjoy luxurious bed linens, soothing aloe bath products, deluxe robes and slippers, and a pillow menu, as well as additional exclusive privileges and complimentary gourmet selections that are served five times daily in the Tradewinds’ Executive Lounge. Imagine tranquility while relaxing at the secluded Tradewinds Club Beach, reserved just for Tradewinds Club guests. Oversized towels, complimentary floats, and beach beds are just a few of the perks provided on a first-come-first-served basis. Immerse your body and soul at The Mandara Spa (located in the Tradewinds Beach Cabin), offering a full menu of healing and soothing treatments, including massages and deepcleansing body wraps, as well as various salon services. Whether you’re craving poolside snacks or full-course meals, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino has a variety of fine restaurants to choose from. Dine at La Vista for casual à la carte and Italian-themed buffets, or make reservations at the legendary Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Champions Sports Bar & Grill for classic American-style meals, Simply Fish for mouthwatering seafood, or enjoy sushi at Ketsu Sushi Bar. During the day, fulfill all of your cravings at Waves Beach Bar serving light fare, snacks, and beverages. While relaxing and doing nothing at all is an all-time favorite for those who visit, there are many activities for the 200

adventure seeker. Aruba is considered to be one of the most popular locations for water activities; snorkeling, deep sea fishing, and sailing are just a few of the sports you can participate in. Home to the constant trade winds, Aruba is an ideal destination for windsurfing and kite surfing–a more recent popular activity. Across the island, there are many unique locations you may want to visit that highlight Aruba’s natural beauty. The California Lighthouse gives breathtaking views of the western coastline and of the entire island, while the Fontein Caves emphasize the island’s history with visible drawings made by the Arawak Indians. Explore the rugged northeastern coast during an off-road safari tour, or see Aruba’s picturesque topography during a horseback tour that takes guests through the countryside and coastline. Not only will you navigate through sand dunes covered with cacti and divi-divi trees, but you will also stop at the Natural Pool, which is one of the island’s most romantic ContemporaryBride.com

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Dutch Facades in Oranjestad - Aruba Tourism Authority

The Language

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

While Dutch and Papiamento (Aruba's local language) are the official languages of Aruba, most Arubans speak a minimum of four languages including English and Spanish. Papiamento–a language drawn from Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch African dialects and more–represents the friendliness for which Aruba is known for, possessing its own unique rhythm and meanings. Fun fact: Papiamento was declared as Aruba's official language, alongside Dutch, as of March 19, 2003; however, has been used as the native language for 300 years.

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

spots. Don’t forget to stop by the newly expanded Stellaris Casino and try your luck at Aruba’s largest pavilion, offering more than 500 slot machines and 32 gaming tables. How to Get Here With many airlines offering nonstop and direct scheduled flights to and from Aruba, getting there is quick and easy. With a four-hour flight from the New York and New Jersey areas, most major air carriers (American Airlines, US Airways, United Airlines, Delta, and JetBlue) will fly into the Queen Beatrix International Airport. The ambiance in Aruba can perfectly set the mood for a honeymoon in paradise. Whether you choose to relax beachside or adventure the island, you and your husband will create many lasting memories as you begin your life together. For more information about the island and to book your honeymoon or destination wedding, visit www.Aruba.com and www.ArubaMarriott.com. ContemporaryBride.com

* Bonbini

Welcome

* Bon tardi

Good afternoon

* Bon nochi

Good evening

* Bon dia

Good morning

* Pasa bon dia!

Have a nice day!

* Por fabor

Please

* Con ta bai?

How are you?

* Mi ta bon

I am fine

* Hopi bon

Very good

* Mi nomber ta...

My name is...

* Con jamabo?

What is your name?

* Di nada

You are welcome

* Mi tin sed

I am thirsty

* Mi tin hamber

I am hungry

* Unda ta?

Where is it?

* Cuanto ora tin?

What time is it?

* Mi dushi

My darling (sweetie)

* Un sunchi

A kiss

* Un braza

A hug

* Mi amor

My love

* Felis

Happy

* Mi ta stima bo!

I love you

Learn more at: www.aruba.com/ExploreAruba/Culture/language.aspx

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mara&conrad October 13, 2012 Restaurant Le Procope • Paris, France

It was during Mara and Conrad’s final semester at Duke University when the two met at a local bar near campus in February 2009. They were instantly attracted to each other and talked for nearly an hour, which led to their first date one week later. “We definitely knew each other was the one pretty early on,” Mara reminisced. “Even though we both knew I was going to Paris after graduating (just several months after we started dating), we never questioned that we wanted to stay together despite the distance.” The two reconnected a year later when Mara returned to the United States in June 2010. For their two-year anniversary, Mara and Conrad headed to his home country for what she thought was just a vacation and to spend more time with his family. During their trip, they stayed at a beach town along South Africa’s garden route where Conrad spent summers growing up. As they were enjoying a beautiful sunset, Conrad proposed, making their vacation even more special. When Mara and Conrad began planning their wedding, they knew Paris, France, was the perfect locale to host their destination wedding. Additionally, it was an ideal geographical location for both families to meet in the middle. Mara and Conrad agreed, “It was surreal to have so many of our closest family and friends come from different corners of the world to be there for us, meet each other, and to experience a city that has meant so much to us.” Throughout the wedding planning process, Marina Perrin of Dreams in Paris helped Mara and Conrad create the wedding they envisioned. “She was our on-the-ground source of knowledge in Paris,” commented Mara. The ceremony took place at The American Church, where the bride walked down the aisle wearing a stunning blush-colored

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Sareh Nouri wedding gown featuring a fitted bodice and dramatic organza skirt embellished with roses. Conrad sported a classic black Hugo Boss tuxedo with ivory bow tie. Following the ceremony, the newlyweds, along with their guests, boarded the Seine River Cruise for their cocktail hour. As they viewed many prominent sights of Paris, guests were served a variety of specialty hors d’oeuvres prepared by Traiteur Tradition Française, while being entertained by La Planche à Dixie jazz band. From the ceremony and throughout the reception, Maxime Desessard captured their wedding in a photojournalistic approach. “We really liked Maxime’s style of allowing us to be ourselves and taking lots of truly candid photos,” noted the bride. Mara and Conrad took their photographs in several of their favorite spots around Paris, including on the steps of the Paris Opera. At the end of the boat cruise, the celebration continued at the historical Restaurant Le Procope. For dinner guests were given an authentic French experience featuring French onion soup and salmon Florentine with autumn vegetables. The couple also incorporated the groom’s culture by placing bottles of their favorite South African wines on each table. For dessert, guests indulged in vanilla crème brûlée, along with vanilla cake with alternating flavors of vanilla and hazelnut filling. At the end of their wedding day, the newlyweds escaped on their European honeymoon in southern Spain where they visited Costa del Sol, Marbella, Ronda, Grenada, Seville, and Madrid. ContemporaryBride.com

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In The Spotlight Ceremony Location: The American Church Celebrant: Dr. Joseph Indano Reception Location: Restaurant Le Procope Cocktail Hour Caterer: Traiteur Tradition Française Photographer: Maxime Desessard Wedding Coordinator: Dreams in Paris Ceremony Music: Eloise Renand (Violinist) & Fred Gramann (Organist) Entertainment: La Planche à Dixie Florist: L’atelier Vertige Marais Limousine Service: Star Limos Cake Designer: Wedding Cakes Avenue Bridal Salon & Veil: Exquisite Bride Shoes: Badgley Mischka Formal Attire: Hugo Boss Invitations: Custom Invitations by JoAnn Favors: Miniature Wine Bottles Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: Murielle Palace Jeweler: Timeless Diamonds Honeymoon Location: Southern Spain

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Win! Win! Win! Win! Win! Win an 8-Day, 7-Night Unforgettable Honeymoon

at one of Aruba’s finest luxury Resorts, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino Marital bliss begins at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. Nestled on Aruba’s famous Palm Beach with crystal clear water and swaying palms, this resort offers friendly service and luxurious amenities within the 411 oversized guest rooms and suite accommodations- all of which feature spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. Whether you’re craving poolside snacks or full-course meals, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino has a variety of fine dining restaurants and bars to choose from serving up mouthwatering favorites and top shelf cocktails. At the Tradewinds Club, experience personal service and exclusive amenities from luxurious bed linens to complimentary floats and oversized towels at the secluded Tradewinds Club Beach. From relaxation to entertainment, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino offers endless activities including beach volleyball. aquarobics, sailing, boating, snorkeling, and more. Aruba is considered to be one of the most popular locations for water activities; snorkeling, deep sea fishing, and sailing are just a few of the sports you can participate in. Home to the constant trade winds, Aruba is an ideal destination for windsurfing and kite surfing?a more recent popular activity. You prize includes luxurious accommodations for two adults, daily breakfast and two dinners at Simply Fish and/or La Vista Restaurant, and all non-motorized water sports and activities.

To enter, fill out the enclosed card or enter online at www.contemporarybride.com. For official rules visit ContemporaryBride.com. *Some activities may be subject to an extra charge. **This is a land package only. Airfare and transfers are not included. Some restrictions may apply. Some blackout dates may apply.

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We invite you to begin your love journey on the legendary island of Saint Lucia, a leading Caribbean hotspot for destination weddings. Coconut Bay has the perfect setting for every wedding style with nuptials offered on the beach or in an elegant oceanfront gazebo. Brides can select from multiple stress-free wedding packages in the resort’s offerings, making it simple for lovebirds to create magical memories, no matter the budget. So whether you choose to walk down the aisle or down the shore, Coconut Bay provides the ideal environment and your “something blue” is always included.

*Restrictions apply.

To speak with a personal wedding consultant and select the ideal amenities for your special day,

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*Restrictions apply.

Voted World’s Best Honeymoon Destination, Saint Lucia is an exotic locale for newlyweds with its iconic Piton 0RXQWDLQV DQG PDQ\ QDWXUDO ZRQGHUV Couples looking for the perfect combination of romance and relaxation are sure to be enticed by Coconut Bay’s prime location on the island’s striking southern coast nearest the international airport and the PRVW YLVLWHG¢DWWUDFWLRQV With Coconut Bay’s signature CocoMoon packages, couples will enjoy the best of the island while nestled in the tranquility of our adults-only Harmony oasis featuring an oceanfront spa, new suites and many upgraded amenities, making it the perfect destination for the start of your fairy tale.

please call 877-352-8898 or email weddings@askmeaboutcoconutbay.com -- Visit cbayresort.com

HONEYMOON HOT SPOTS

ANTIGUA

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Galley Bay Resort & Spa

Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua

(866) 237-1644 • www.galleybayresort.com This intimate Caribbean hideaway delights guests with its refined, unpretentious atmosphere and its relaxing, allinclusive pricing. It's glimmering turquoise seascapes and lush gardens create a relaxing, natural setting for those who want to decompress and escape from the world. The focal point is our three-quarter-mile white sand beach on the clear, warm Caribbean, where you can recline in the shade of a palm tree, soak up the sun or enjoy a refreshing swim and complimentary non-motorized water-sports. The boutique property's 98 guest rooms are set amid 40 acres of beautiful tropical gardens, providing a sense of privacy.

(800) 327-1991 • www.grandpineapple.com Romance is always in bloom at Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua, where you can take a stroll hand-in-hand throughout the 25 acres of this tropical hideaway. Set on the undisturbed northeast coast of Antigua, every aspect of this spectacular spot invites you to savor the true essence of the islands. Relax on your own stretch of unbelievably white sand and surrender to the pulse of the tropics. Enjoy an all-inclusive getaway with luxurious accommodations including the recently renovated Tropical Waterfront rooms immersing guests in the true essence of the Caribbean.

Jumby Bay - A Rosewood Resort

Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa

(888) ROSEWOOD • www.jumbybayresort.com Set on a 300-acre private island, Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort, casts a spell of serene enchantment. Nestled two miles off the coast of Antigua, the exclusive resort is noted for its landscape, lush with rare tropical flowers, stately palm trees, and abundant foliage. A naturalist's haven, the island features three superb, white sand beaches. Jumby Bay, a secluded hideaway accessible only by boat, is known worldwide for providing discerning travelers with world-class service and distinguished amenities. With 40 beautifully refurbished suites and 11 villas spread across nearly a third of the island, guests feel deliciously ensconced in their own secluded hideaway. Each suite is an oasis of luxurious idleness, embodying the island's stylish good taste.

(888) SANDALS • www.sandals.com Awaken your sensual side at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa–one of the most romantic resorts in Antigua. Situated on the famous beach of Dickenson Bay, immerse yourself in a seaside oasis graced by majestic palms as refreshing trade winds soothe the soul. Unwind in one of six pools, celebrate the high art of food and drink with world-class fare and intimate settings, or seek adventure with several excursions and activities available. From luxurious accommodations including those with private plunge pools and exquisite restaurants, your all-inclusive honeymoon in Antigua awaits you in two perfect worlds, found in one grande resort designed for love.

St. James's Club

The Verandah Resort & Spa

(866) 237-2071 • www.stjamesclubantigua.com A sociable club-like ambience prevails throughout, the visiting yachts contributing a dash of glamour. At its heart lie the guest rooms, restaurants and recreational opportunities of The Club, while The Village is an adjacent sanctuary of residential-style villas tumbling down a gentle hillside towards the bay. By day there are two beaches and four swimming pools, as well as a variety of on-site activities to keep all age groups entertained. After dark, there is a choice of four restaurants set either in the gardens, on the hillside or right down by the water's edge; the cocktail bars and live music to take nightowls into the wee hours.

(866) 237-1785 • www.verandahresortandspa.com This is a place where sea meets sky, where you can reconnect with nature, your loved ones and yourself. This eco-friendly island resort offers 30 spectacular beachfront acres on Antigua’s northeast coast overlooking a tranquil bay. The Verandah’s idyllic Caribbean village ambience is bound to inspire closeness and relaxation. It’s the perfect choice for romantic getaways or convivial family vacations, with the perfect mix of activity and relaxation. It’s totally up to you. The pampering Spa Tranquility will relax and invigorate the senses. You’re always welcome at The Verandah – it’s the natural place to slow down and reconnect.

ContemporaryBride.com

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Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort

800-223-6388 | www.arubamarriott.com

(800) 367-3484 • www.diviarubaphoenix.com Enjoy miles of white sand beach at the Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort. Nestled in Aruba’s famed Palm Beach, this resort is the perfect host for your vacation in paradise. Spacious beachfront studios and suites offer fully equipped kitchens, picture windows, and large private balconies with widespread views. Relax in thatch cabanas and hammocks overlooking the Caribbean Sea, or enjoy activities, like windsurfing, scuba diving and snorkeling. The Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort will provide you with the ultimate romantic escape. Their romance packages include beachside candlelit dining, premiere suite accommodations, champagne, and more.

Fall under the spell of the Aruba Marriott Resort & Casino offering world-class luxury and lavish amenities. Bask under the warm Caribbean sun as the famous trade winds caress your skin as you succumb to the islands pristine beach, and turquoise waters. Leave your worries behind you and enjoy this ideal destination for discerning travelers seeking the ultimate vacation. This eight-story complex is home to 411 rooms, a pool with cascading waterfalls, seven bars and restaurants, Mandara Spa, Stellaris Casino, and the Tradewinds Club.

Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino

(800) 858-2258 • www.occidentalhotels.com Experience the history, the myth, and the eternal fascination of Aruba. Discover the beaches that curve like an Aruban smile, at the all-inclusive Occidental Grand Aruba. A tropical honeymoon awaits you at the 341 room Occidental Grand Aruba as you explore countless ways to enjoy your time together. Try your luck with fantastic gaming at the resort’s casino. Or get active with a variety of sports and activities such as kayaking, paddle boats,and aqua aerobics, including scuba clinics! And at the end of an active day, let your Occidental Grand Aruba’s hosts entertain you with one of the nightly shows featuring talented locals and staff members.

(800) 421-8188 • www.renaissancearuba.com Romance has a home here at the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino. The beauty of nature swims with a fresh style and unique attitude, creating the perfect atmosphere for a honeymoon. Gourmet dining, endless indulgences, and touches of pure luxury bring the best of Aruba to life, an experience and environment not soon forgotten. The resort features two distinctive lodging options that showcase unique personalities. The adult-exclusive Renaissance Marina Hotel is close to the heart of the action and just steps away from the vibrant center of Oranjestad. The family-friendly Renaissance Ocean Suites is set right on the Caribbean Sea. At the Aruba Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, you’ll discover a paradise that offers you more than just a spectacular honeymoon, but an ideal backdrop for a lifetime of memories.

Hotel Riu Palace Aruba

The Westin Resort & Casino, Aruba

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Located on Aruba’s famous Palm Beach, discover the all-inclusive Hotel Riu Palace and the island itself. With white sand and crystal-clear water, this resort provides world-class service, magnificent accommodations, and a variety of food to satisfy your palate. Two swimming pools, fitness center, daily activities, and decadent cuisine within the restaurants are just a few of the amenities you will enjoy.

(877) 782-0149 • www.westinaruba.com The Westin Aruba Resort is the perfect island destination, offering the charm of the Dutch Caribbean, a magnificent beach, glittering casino, and a host of outdoor pleasures. Located on the luxurious strip of Palm Beach, Aruba, amidst sparkling blue water and soft sand beaches, we invite you to create the memories of a lifetime. Enjoy sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and golf. Take a refreshing swim in the ocean. Drift in our gorgeous seaside pool. Or relax with a refreshing massage, body wrap or facial at our Spa. Discover the ideal blend of Caribbean warmth and Las-Vegasstyle excitement at The Westin Aruba Resort!

ContemporaryBride.com

HONEYMOON HOT SPOTS

Occidental Grand Aruba

ARUBA

Aruba Marriott Resort & Casino

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HONEYMOON HOT SPOTS

BAHAMAS

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Atlantis Paradise Island

Breezes Bahamas

(800) ATLANTIS • www.atlantis.com With over 3,000 rooms, 21 restaurants, 19 lounges, a casino, marina, beautiful beach, incredible pools, waterslides, tennis, golf, and more, the Atlantis Resort Paradise Island truly features something for everyone. From world-class luxury to moderately-priced comfort, Atlantis gives you a range of choice. Regardless of which tower you choose, you'll have all the exciting experiences of Atlantis at your doorstep and at your disposal. Eleven pool areas and miles of white beach provide both adventure and relaxation. Enjoy formal pools, zero-entry pools, kid's pools, and more!

(877) BREEZES • www.breezes.com Miles away from everyday life, Breezes Bahamas is located on Nassau’s magnificent Cable Beach. Embrace the powder white sands of the island as crystal clear waters gently lap the shore as everyday worries drift away. Only ten minutes from the airport, the resort offers cozy guest rooms and spacious suites with views ranging from lush, tropical gardens to spectacular mountain vistas to breathtaking ocean panoramas. Enjoy fine dining to suit every palate, discover endless activities on land and offshore, and indulge in pampering at the Blue Mahoe Spa.

One&Only Ocean Club

Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island

(888) 528-7157 • www.oneandonlyresorts.com Nestled peacefully along a shore of delicate white sand beach, One&Only Ocean Club is a treasured sanctuary of privileged perfection. Renowned for its legendary sophistication and contemporary elegance, this alluring beachfront hideaway reflects the glamorous ambience and posh exclusivity of a grand colonial manor, welcoming generations of the world’s travelling elite. Expansive manicured lawns and towering coconut palms provide an enchanting backdrop to the pristine beaches of Paradise Island. One&Only Ocean Club is a playground of world-class golf, tennis, spa, and of course, watersports. The spectacular blue waters of the Caribbean are the elixir of Bahamian life, explored with a rich roster of activities, including diving, snorkelling, sailing, and wind-surfing.

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Standing on a spectacular 3-mile stretch of white sandy beach, Riu Paradise Island has a prime location next to Atlantis and just two miles from downtown. Riu Paradise Island offers the ultimate all-inclusive Bahamas vacation coupled with Riu’s outstanding services. Riu Paradise Island offers three conference rooms, a gym, a swimming pool, tennis court three bars and six restaurants. Take advantage of the gambling, shopping, and entertainment opportunities offered by our neighbor the Atlantis Resort & Casino. Begin the rest of your life with the friendly Bahamian pace, where the world slows down.

Sandals Emerald Bay

Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island

(888) SANDALS • www.sandals.com Experience a different shade of turquoise at the all-inclusive Sandals Emerald Bay. Evoking the British Colonial elegance of a private island home, all 183 villas and suites are oceanview or beachfront, just steps away from the pristine mile-long stretch of beach. Play in the ocean, relax by the pool, enjoy yoga, pilates, or seek adventure and participate in a variety of activities from windsurfing to beach volleyball. At Sandals, the honeymoon package is all-inclusive. Leave your worries and wallet behind and spend your honeymoon dedicated to each other.

(888) SANDALS • www.sandals.com An oasis of European grandeur, Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island is considered to be “the pearl of the Caribbean”. Seductive beaches and crystalline waters embrace tropical gardens and opulent suites that exude serenity. During your all-inclusive stay, escape to the romantic offshore island just minutes away with two secluded coastlines, a chic beach club, signature pool with swim-up bar, the Red Lane Spa, and the region’s best seafood house. Sandals Royal Bahamian is the best of all worlds, boasting European elegance and island romance wrapped up in one unforgettable getaway.

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(800) 367-3484 • www.divisouthwinds.com Divi Southwinds Beach Resort features over 130 suites and is situated on a half mile of white sand beach among 20 acres of tropical gardens. You’ll never run out of things to do between the numerous outdoor activities and historical tours, and the shops, restaurants and nightlife of the St. Lawrence Gap, which conveniently runs through the resort.

Mango Bay Barbados

Hilton Barbados Resort

(246) 432-1384 • www.mangobaybarbados.com The deluxe 76-room Mango Bay in sun-splashed Barbados offers an unforgettable, romantic, all-inclusive way to spend your honeymoon. The resort is cozy and intimate – perfect for romance – and white sandy beaches, sparkling turquoise waters, and clear blue skies create an idyllic Caribbean backdrop for that first vacation as husband and wife. Mango Bay’s all-inclusive vacation features all meals, afternoon tea, local and brand name drinks, including wine with dinner, nightly entertainment, water sports, such as waterskiing, Hobie Cat sailing, kayaking and snorkeling, a glass-bottom boat ride, a shopping trip into the capital city of Bridgetown, and a catamaran sail.

(246) 426-0200 • www.hiltonbarbadoshotel.com Explore the beauty of Hilton Barbados located on the lush tropical peninsula of Needham’s Point. This tropical paradise provides ocean-facing accommodations with panoramic views and lavish amenities. During your stay dine at the resort’s restaurants offering an array of savory cuisine while overlooking the turquoise waters. Exhilarating water sports, worldclass golf, and horseback riding are available nearby or you can choose to relax under a swaying palm on the beach or swim in the hotel’s sprawling pool complex.

Sandy Lane

Turtle Beach

(246) 444-2000 • www.sandylane.com Sandy Lane conjures up images of serene style in an idyllic resort setting. This resort has it all: a perfect location in Barbados overlooking the Caribbean Sea on a tranquil coral sand beach, shaded by mature mahogany trees, the timeless and classic elegance of the Palladian buildings mirrored in the spacious comfort of the 112 hotel rooms and suites, a stunning private villa, exceptional golf, gourmet dining, an outstanding spa, superb sports facilities and finally, an exceptional level of warm Barbadian hospitality.

(888) 996-9948 • www.turtlebeachresortbarbados.com Turtle Beach is a premium all-inclusive, all-suite resort on the South coast of Barbados located on a stunning 1500-foot stretch of white sand beach where sea turtles return to lay their eggs year after year. Combining contemporary design, with a lively atmosphere, this resort offers luxurious 161 junior and onebedroom suites. Water and beach activities, onsite dining and spa services are just a few of the amenities available.

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HONEYMOON HOT SPOTS

Divi Southwinds Beach Resort

(800) 367-3484 • www.diviheritage.com Discover a romantic adults-only hideaway overlooking beautiful St. James Beach. Private verandas in each of the 22 colonial-inspired suites guarantee an intimate experience as you enjoy a wide range of island activities. All-inclusive day passes and meal plans are available for guests to take advantage of the amenities at the neighboring Almond Beach Resort.

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ClubHotel Riu Bachata

ClubHotel Riu Bambu

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Located in Puerto Plata, ClubHotel Riu Bachata is situated between soft green hills and the Caribbean Sea surrounded by lush tropical foliage. This all-inclusive resort offers an ideal setting with impressive ocean views, two swimming pools, four bars, and two restaurants.

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Fine white sand and turquoise water are two features you will enjoy at the ClubHotel Riu Bambu. Situated in the resort town of Punta Cana, this all-inclusive resort is located on Arena Gorda Beach amid tropical gardens and palm groves. Do it all of nothing at all; whether you want to relax by one of two swimming pools or participate in a variety of excursions.

ClubHotel Riu Merengue

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Nestled among tall palm trees and surrounded by mountains and a lush, natural environment in Puerto Plata is the ClubHotel Riu Merengue. This all-inclusive beachfront resort on Maimon Bay features a freshwater swimming pool, solarium terrace, fitness center, two restaurants and three bars.

(888) 762-5002 • www.hardrockhotelpuntacana.com Everything you love about Hard Rock all nestled within the pristine beaches of the Dominican Republic. This all-inclusive escape includes not only world-class dining, nightlife, and gaming action, but also 15 pools, a Nicklaus-designed golf course, and Spa for the perfect balance of fun and relaxation. The resort offers destination wedding and honeymoon packages.

Hotel Riu Naiboa

Hotel Riu Palace Macao

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Located on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic in Punta Cana, Hotel Riu Naiboa is ideally situated within a lush tropical landscape. This four-star resort offers a relaxing environment with warm climate, freshwater swimming pool, solarium terrace, fitness center and Eternal Spa. In the restaurant’s buffet or thematic restaurants, taste the Dominican gastronomy with endless cuisine options.

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com The alluring Hotel Riu Palace Macao is an impressive 5-star resort situated on the beach of Arena Gorda in Punta Cana. A paradise of palm trees and turquoise water awaits you at this adults-only, all-inclusive facility offering 364 guestrooms, a fresh water swimming pool, and daytime and daily nightly entertainment.

Hotel Riu Palace Punta Cana

Paradisus Punta Cana

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Situated on the beach of Arena Gorda, Hotel Riu Palace Punta Cana achieves an even higher level of luxury, comfort and beauty. This hotel boasts 612 guestrooms offering the all-inclusive experience of all meals, snacks beverages, and room service 24 hours a day. Windsurfing, sailing, and kayaking are just a few of the activities you can participate in during your stay.

(888) 741-5600 • www.paradisus.com Set amid tropical gardens with magnificent views of the Caribbean Sea’s turquoise waters is the Paradisus Punta Cana. This all-inclusive, all-encompassing, all-suite Caribbean playground offers tennis, championship golf, an array of gorgeous pools, every non-motorized water sport imaginable, a casino, an exquisite full-service spa and health club and a thrilling collection of unique island activities.

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(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Located in the northeast of the island in a bay close to Montego Bay, Hotel Riu Montego Bay offers a wide range of service next to a tranquil beach with turquoise water. Enjoy the All-Inclusive system, in which guests have the opportunity to try a wide variety of food at the resort’s buffet and thematic restaurants. During the day enjoy entertainment programs and at night, shows, live music, or the disco offers the best rhythms of Jamaica.

ClubHotel Riu Negril

ClubHotel Riu Ocho Rios

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Located on the beach in Negril, Jamaica is the 420-room ClubHotel Riu Negril. Through this locale’s natural surroundings, you will experience an authentic oasis of tranquility. The resort’s “All-Inclusive” system paired with its attractive grounds makes this an ideal place to celebrate any event. Two fresh water swimming pools, a Jacuzzi, gym, and wellness center are just a few of the hotel’s amenities.

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com ClubHotel Riu Ocho Rios is located in the banks of the privileged beach Mammee Bay in Ocho Rios. Surrounded by thick woods and waterfalls, this resort features fine amenities and the exclusive All-Inclusive system, offering high quality services. Discover Jamaica and visit the beach of Dolphin Cover where you can swim with dolphins and sharks accompanied by guides, visit one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, or view the botanical garden of Canbrook. Back at the resort, relax by one of two swimming pools, satisfy your palate at the buffet or thematic restaurants, or relax at the Renova Spa.

Hotel Riu Palace Tropical Bay

Sandals Montego Bay

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com The Victorian-inspired Riu Palace Tropical Bay is an all-inclusive resort located on Negril’s beach of Bloody Bay. It’s the perfect locale for ultimate relaxation with its lush gardens, fresh water swimming pools, solarium terrace and “Renova Spa” wellness center. Enjoy a wide variety of cuisines, nightlife, and outdoor activities on this fun-filled Jamaican getaway.

(888) SANDALS • www.sandals.com Bask in the warmth of Sandals Montego Bay. Located on one of the island’s largest private white-sand beaches, this resort is upbeat, lively and a favorite for returning guests. Only ten minutes from Sangster International Airport, Sandals Montego Bay is close to everything yet a million miles from the cares of the ordinary world. With eight world-class restaurants, chic oceanfront pools, tropical gardens, and Bay Roc Villas–with butler service–just steps from the sea, Sandals Montego Bay boasts an authentic laid-back Caribbean experience with lavish amenities.

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HONEYMOON HOT SPOTS

Hotel Riu Montego Bay

(877) BREEZES • www.breezes.com Paradise lives in a quiet cove along Jamaica’s Southwest shore on Negril Beach where crystal water meets seven miles of pure white sand. At the world-acclaimed Breezes Grand Negril, you will not only be welcomed by the friendly team members, but enter paradise with breathtaking beaches and tropical gardens. Water sports, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a soothing spa, are just a few of the resort’s amenities, in addition to six restaurants and six bars.

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Breezes Grand Negril

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Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa

Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island

(888) SANDALS • www.sandals.com Spanning Negril's famed Seven-Mile Beach, Sandals' Negril Jamaica all-inclusive resort conjures up tropical vibrations with a casual, understated elegance. Stroll through walkways dotted with swaying palms and sea breezes, while listening to the hypnotic sound of waves. In addition to an endless variety of water sports such as sailing and waterskiing, you’ll find some of Jamaica’s best scuba diving and snorkeling. Experience romantic moments created by the most amazing sunsets, savor world-class cuisine, and enjoy luxurious accommodations just steps from the Jamaican beach.

(888) SANDALS • www.sandals.com As Jamaica's most alluring retreat, Sandals Royal Caribbean is set along a pristine ribbon of beach in Montego Bay. The Jamaican resort's elegant British accent begins with a proper arrival through a grand port cochere to a noble Georgian-style Great House surrounded by tropical gardens. Minutes away, an authentic dragon boat will shanghai you to a private offshore island hosting endless exotic adventures: both poolside & beachside pleasures by day, chic parties and bonfires at night, and an authentic Indonesian restaurant. Check into a Swim-up Suite that also includes the envied advantage of personal butler service.

Sandals Royal Plantation

Sunset at the Palms

(888) SANDALS • www.sandals.com On the lush north coast of Jamaica, where the rolling St. Ann Mountains sweep down to two private cove beaches, the art of stylish hospitality can be found at this all-butler, alloceanfront resort. Boasting a charming intimacy in an atmosphere of aesthetic sophistication, this five-decade gem of history hosts 74 ocean view suites tucked into a magnificent coral bluff.

(877) 734-3486 • www.sunsetatthepalms.com Bask in the ‘hideaway’ at the trendy all-inclusive Sunset at the Palms with its 65 guest rooms, superb beach, and sensational sunsets in the Jamaican capital of cool Negril. Exotic ‘treehouse-style’ guestrooms sit on stilts among the palms. Chic Asian-inspired furnishings meet sleek and modern bathrooms. Gauzy white linens give way to artfully accented pillows and throws. Resort services include a swimming pool with swim-up bar, three restaurants, and three bars, including a martini lobby bar and beach bar and grill, Jacuzzi, tennis, spa services, nature walks, cooking classes, internet service, fitness center, and non-motorized water sports. Consistently rated the Top Resort in Jamaica on Tripadvisor.com.

Sunset Beach Resort & Spa

Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort & Spa

(877) 734-3486 • www.sunsetbeachresort.com Escape to the playful, all-inclusive, 430-room Sunset Beach Resort & Spa in Montego Bay, offering the awesome new Pirate’s Paradise Water Park for the ultimate fun in the sun. Perfect for singles, couples and families, with a spectacular beachfront setting, spacious guestrooms, three restaurants, six bars, beach grill, three swimming pools, giant Jacuzzi, nonstop activities and entertainment. Spend a day pampering in the sumptuous spa with Jamaican inspired treatments or relaxing on the white sand beaches. Or tie the knot ‘island style’. And it’s all just ten minutes from the ‘Hip Strip’ of Montego Bay, featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment. Named one of the Top Ten Family Resorts In The Caribbean by TripAdvisor.com.

(877) 734-3486 • www.sunsetjamaicagrande.com Escape to the all-inclusive splendor of the legendary 730room Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort in Ocho Rios with its spectacular variety of amenities, divine dining, spa and stellar location. A beautiful white-sand beach – the longest in Ocho Rios – fringes the resort while five lavish pools meander through this beachside complex, featuring the sensational new Lighthouse Waterslide, waterfalls, plunge pools, Jacuzzis, swaying rope bridge, and swim-up bars. Amenities include five restaurants, two beach grills, eight bars, two kids clubs, non-motorized water sports, full-service spa, air-conditioned fitness center, tennis, mini casino, nightly entertainment, disco, shops, business center, conference facilities, weddings, and much more. The ideal getaway for singles, couples, families, and groups.

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(877) 576-7511 • www.hardrockhotels.com/riviera-maya.aspx The Aventura Spa Palace and Aventura Cove Palace will be transitioned to the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya in the winter of 2013. Everyone’s got an all access pass to experience this all- inclusive oasis. Couples, families and even kids deserve the rock star treatment. The Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya offers a family and adults-only side to create a truly one-of-a-kind, all- inclusive escape for guests of all ages. The family side has 489 spacious guestrooms, three restaurants with something delicious for everyone, cannon-ball worthy pools and water activities. The adult side has 777 decadent guestrooms, four bars to shake things up and a grotto pool that turns into an anything-goes-nightclub after hours.

Cozumel Palace

(800) 635-1836 • www.palaceresorts.com Located in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, the all-inclusive Beach Palace is a trendy, chic resort that includes two rooftop pools, two swim-up bars and Jacuzzis, and gorgeous views of the Nichupte Lagoon. Try one of the resort’s four restaurants, which feature Japanese, Mexican, American and Italian cuisine, enjoy nightly entertainment, or visit one of their many bars. Guest rooms and suites include double Jacuzzis, mini-bars and liquor dispensers, and satellite LCD TV.

(800) 635-1836 • www.palaceresorts.com Surrounded by crystal clear blue waters with the secondlargest coral reef in the world, Cozumel Palace is perfect for divers and nature lovers. Enjoy the ocean by snorkeling, scuba diving, or swimming with dolphins, or take a dip in one of the four swimming pools and Infinity pool at this all-inclusive, 175room resort. Other amenities include nightly entertainment, spa services, and four delicious restaurants with outdoor dining.

Hard Rock Hotel Cancun

Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta

(800) 762-5002 | www.hrhcancun.com A luxury beachfront playground with glamorous amenities paired with rock star style. At the Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, enjoy the ultimate all-inclusive experience in the heart of the famed hotel zone. Paying homage to a lifestyle of excess, the hotel is a 12-story marvel, sparkling against the brilliance of a white sandy beach and the Caribbean Sea. Complete with 601 guestrooms built to accommodate rock stars, this luxurious resort has everything needed to fulfill your rock n’ roll dreams, including acclaimed restaurants, bars and lounges, expansive poolscape and a spa with outdoor massage areas.

(888) 762-5002 | www.hrhvallarta.com Find romance, adventure, and relaxation at the 348-room, all-inclusive Vallarta Palace. This beachfront oasis is nestled in the heart of Puerto Vallarta and features four restaurants, three bars, two outdoor pools, spa services and access to a wide variety of water sports and outdoor activities. Destination wedding and honeymoon packages are available at the resort, whose mainly oceanfront rooms boast private French balconies and double Jacuzzis.

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HONEYMOON HOT SPOTS

Beach Palace

MEXICO

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Isla Mujeres Palace

Le Blanc Spa Resort

(800) 635-1836 • www.palaceresorts.com Enjoy a romantic, couples-only experience at the allinclusive Isla Mujeres Hotel Palace. Located away from the hustle and bustle of urban Cancun, this 62-room paradise is all about relaxing and rejuvenating with in-room Jacuzzis, spa services, and 24-hour room service. With destination wedding and honeymoon packages, your trip to this undisturbed tropical oasis is sure to be unforgettable.

(800) 753-2526 • www.palaceresorts.com The adults-only, all-inclusive Le Blanc Spa Resort beckons you from the white sand beaches and sparkling waters of the Caribbean. Nestled in a secluded enclave between Nichupte Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea in Cancun, Mexico, Le Blanc is an extraordinary resort where luxury reaches its pinnacle and service is simultaneously genuine and sensational. Indulge your every whim, whether it’s a refreshing swim or sun worshipping at one of our three shimmering pools, a challenging round on one of our legendary Jack Nicklaus Cancun golf courses, or the supreme luxury of doing nothing more than lounging on the beach and wading in the deliciously warm waves.

Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort

Occidental Grand Nuevo Vallarta

(800) 635-1836 • www.palaceresorts.com Escape to a place where you can leave your worries behind and relax in the warm sunshine with a total sense of freedom. Located on Cancun’s south shore, between mangroves and the Caribbean Sea, Moon Palace Golf Resort offers unsurpassed natural beauty. Guests indulge in an all-inclusive haven from everyday life featuring two enormous outdoor freestyle pools, two indoor swimming pools, six outdoor Jacuzzis, four swimup bars, a gym, six outdoor tennis courts, beach and water volleyball, miniature golf, bicycles and roller blades, two basketball courts, billiards, Ping-Pong tables, a disco, a sports bar, and much more. Guest rooms feature double Jacuzzis, private balconies, in-room safes, satellite TV, and mini-bars.

(800) 858-2258 • www.occidentalhotels.com Cradled by an exquisite stretch of beach on the famed Bay of Banderas, tranquil deep blue water and the tropical vegetation of the Mexican Pacific, the all-inclusive Allegro Nuevo Vallarta offers guests an endless blend of fun, relaxation, romance and attentive service. Featuring a host of recreational water and land activities, three specialty restaurants, three bars/lounges, daily activities program and nightly entertainment. Golf enthusiasts have three 18-hole golf courses to choose from. Equipped with something for everyone, Allegro Nuevo Vallarta serves up colorful days, romantic sunsets, and lively nights.

Playacar Palace

Sun Palace

(800) 635-1836 • www.palaceresorts.com This intimate and luxurious resort, located in the Riviera Maya, is set in the exclusive Playacar Hotel Zone in the heart of Playa del Carmen. This beachfront resort offers 208 beautifully appointed rooms, all with double Jacuzzis, balcony and 24-hour room service. Excellent dining services, a beautiful pool with a swim up bar, and exquisite bars and lounges with views to the stunning Caribbean Sea and Cozumel Island. Take the opportunity to experience a soothing escape at our state-of-the-art Spa facility, or a round of golf on our 18-hole golf course at the Playacar Spa & Golf Club, located just a stroll away. Selected tours, daily and nightly entertainment included. Honeymoon specials and golf packages available. Rejoice at this modern retreat!

(800) 635-1836 • www.palaceresorts.com Escape to the intimate couples-only Sun Palace, situated 15 minutes from the Cancun airport on the gorgeous coastline of the Carribean Sea. The all-inclusive resort features five restaurants, three bars, and nearby golf courses, along with a double Jacuzzi, private balcony and 24-hour room service for each of its 252 guest rooms.

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(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Located in the lively hotel area of Cancun, Hotel Riu Caribe is ideal for enjoying an unforgettable holiday along with your loved ones amid a fine white sand beach and turquoise water. With the 24-hour All-Inclusive system, guests are offered a variety of activities to participate in from tennis and swimming to daily entertainment. Experience Mexican gastronomy and taste sophisticated flavors at the restaurant’s buffet and in the thematic restaurants at the resort.

Hotel Riu Emerald Bay

Hotel Riu Jalisco

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Discover a golden oasis at the all-inclusive Hotel Riu Emerald Bay in Mazatlán. Spend the day relaxing on the gold sand beaches or being pampered at the “Renova Spa” wellness center. Or perhaps you’d prefer to venture out on one of many nearby excursions or enjoy the sports, water activities, and nightlife the resort has to offer.

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Located on a beautiful stretch of golden sand beach, surrounded by a lush park or palm trees and crystalline waters, Hotel Riu Jalisco in Nuevo Vallarta is truly a Mexican paradise. Throughout the resort, let the Hotel Riu Jalisco meet your every desire from luxury hotel amenities including two fresh water swimming pools, two Jacuzzis, sauna, and wellness center “Renova Spa” to endless activities to participate in.

Hotel Riu Lupita

Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Situated on the beautiful Yucatan peninsula and surrounded by lush vegetation, the Hotel Riu Lupita offers its guests a wide range of services, including the “Renova Spa” with different treatments, and the “Cozumel” Beach Club, located on the beach itself. Four restaurants, two bars, two tennis courts, a gym, two swimming pools and a disco are just a few of the hotel’s amenities.

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com In the south of the Baja California peninsula, north of Mexico, lies the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas. Constructed directly on an extensive beach of white sand, you can enjoy the best service the Palace seal offers guests, along with the lively range of leisure options in the surrounding area. Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas has an outstanding gastronomic offer with seven restaurants, one of the new Krystal fushion gourmet proposal, five bars, two conference rooms, a tennis court, a gym, two infinity edge swimming pools and a disco.

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HONEYMOON HOT SPOTS

Hotel Riu Caribe

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com The Riu Cancun is RIU’s all-inclusive resort with an unmatched location right in the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone. Located on a stunning beachfront property with unparalleled views of the Caribbean Sea, this Mexico vacation offers the perfect combination of beauty, convenience and luxury. Five restaurants, five bars, two conference rooms, a tennis court, a gym, three swimming pools and a disco are just a few of the hotel’s amenities.

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Hotel Riu Palace Las Americas

Hotel Riu Palace Mexico

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Hotel Riu Palace Las Americas in Cancun, Mexico offers beachfront luxury on a dazzling stretch of white sandy beach framed by tropical trees and crystal clear turquoise water. Five restaurants, five bars, fitness center, two swimming pools, and a disco for nightclub entertainment are just a few of the hotel’s amenities.

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Recently renovated in Fall 2012, Hotel Riu Palace Mexico is an elegant beachfront property located near the picturesque town of Playa del Carmen, amid natural and lush landscapes. With excellent gastronomy paired with the all-inclusive system, you will enjoy meals at the restaurant’s buffet and in the thematic restaurants, along with access to bars, the fitness center, non-motorized sports, and daily entertainment.

Hotel Riu Palace Pacífico

Hotel Riu Palace Riviera Maya

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Situated on the seafront of Flamingos beach and surrounded by natural landscapes is the most luxurious hotel in this area. The Hotel Riu Palace Pacifico offers guests the very best service accompanied by top quality at all times. At this allinclusive resort you will find 445 guestrooms, a fresh water swimming pool, and specialty themed restaurants, as well as various activities and daily entertainment.

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Enjoy paradise and first-class personalized service at the Riu Palace Riviera Maya. Playa del Carmen–Mexico’s best kept secret–is truly a tropical paradise. Ideally located on a dazzling stretch of white sandy beach framed by topical trees and crystal clear waters, discover an authentic tropical oasis while creating unforgettable memories. Enjoy the all-inclusive system during your stay from satisfying your palate at the thematic international restaurants to participating in the various activities including volleyball, snorkeling, kayaking, and more.

Hotel Riu Playacar

Hotel Riu Vallarta

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com Riu Playacar is a charming and colorful Caribbean style resort, located opposite a lovely white sandy beach surrounded by lush tropical gardens, just 15 minutes from the heart of Playa del Carmen. This property features 386 spacious guestrooms with a full range of amenities including a mini-bar and liquor dispenser. Our guests enjoy a full range of sports and entertainment activities, such as Riu's famous theme shows, not to mention the superb international buffet and restaurants, as well as the assortment of facilities available at our sister properties within the Riu Resort complex. With its relaxing atmosphere, Riu Playacar is the perfect holiday choice for families, singles or couples.

(888) RIU-4990 • www.riu.com With a novel, modern interpretation of the RIU style, Riu Vallarta offers a fresh, new contemporary art-deco style of architecture with avant-garde design, really distinguishing this exceptional resort, which will delight its guests with its legendary “All Inclusive” concept. Five restaurants, five bars, two conference rooms, a gym, two swimming pools and a disco are just a few of the hotel’s amenities.

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Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort

Ti Kaye Resort & Spa

(888) SANDALS • www.sandals.com Built in the style of a British palace where majestic stone archways lead through a three-story open-air lobby, Sandals Grande St. Lucian is framed by spectacular mountain views and edged by the island's most dramatically perfect beach. Indulge in everything aquatic from scuba-diving to swimming in a choice of four impressive pools - including a creative lagoon pool that lets guests swim right up their rooms. Since the resort is surrounded by the sea, every room includes a mesmerizing water view. When you choose a suite, you'll luxuriate in the most lavish appointments including the indulgence of 24-hour room service. When you stay in at a Sandals Resort in St. Lucia, it's like 3 vacations in one. Our exclusive exchange program allows you to enjoy all the amenities and services of all our resorts on the island.

(758) 456 8101 • www.tikaye.com Located on the secluded Anse Cochon cove on the legendary island of Saint Lucia Ti Kaye Resort & Spa is perfectly nestled along the cliff side overlooking the serene waters. An ode to Mother Nature, each cottage is purposely built into the landscape, drawing from the beauty of its lush natural surroundings. Equipped with modern amenities and some unusual quirks, guests are invited to unplug and indulge in the purposely built outdoor shower, dip in their personal pool or simply hang about in the hammock while watching the sunset from their balcony.

Atrium Beach Resort & Spa

Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino

(888) 992-8748 • www.festiva-atrium.com With its half mile of natural beach and an array of nearby water sports, the Atrium Beach Resort & Spa is sought out for its pristine beachfront paradise overlooking the calm Caribbean Sea. Adjoining the resort’s pool area is the Greenhouse Restaurant, a mainstay on St. Maarten that features local and international cuisine.

(800) SONESTA • www.sonesta.com Set on 10 acres of lush, beachfront property, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino is a “destination within a destination” offering a variety of accommodations and a dazzling array of activities. Situated on the Dutch side of the island, the resort is the island’s largest, with 520 rooms, and offers everything from sailing to shopping and stage shows to sybaritic spa treatments. For nightlife, there’s a world-class casino, a Las Vegas-style theater and clubs where you can dance until dawn. The resort also features three restaurants, a promenade with 40 shops and stand-alone restaurants from intimate to convivial in style, as well as tennis, the Good Life Spa and a beautiful white-sand beachfront.

ContemporaryBride.com

HONEYMOON HOT SPOTS

(888) SANDALS • www.sandals.com Set along a half-mile crescent-shaped beach, this 210-acre enclave spares no detail to bring you an infinitely romantic getaway. Amenities such as one of the largest freshwater pools in the Eastern Caribbean, our own rolling fairways and the magnificent new Villa Suites on Sunset Bluff bring Sandals Regency St. Lucia Golf Resort & Spa to the pinnacle of perfection. The spectacular Sunset Bluff suites feature magnificent views so breathtaking they seem to flow into infinity. When you stay in at a Sandals Resort in St. Lucia, it's like having 3 vacations in one. Our exclusive exchange program allows you to enjoy all the amenities and services of all our resorts on the island.

ST. MAARTEN

Sandals La Toc Golf Resort & Spa

(877) 352-8898 • www.cbayresort.com Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, located on the exotic southern coast of St. Lucia, is an 85-acre, all-inclusive resort that will cater to your every desire. Whether you want to lay by the palm-fringed pool in an intimate cabana in an adultsonly oasis, or ride adrenaline-pumping water slides in a tropical playground, Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa will be the perfect getaway from hectic everyday life, as it offers all of this and more. A lazy river, swim-up bars, four lighted tennis courts, three swimming pools, an outdoor whirlpool, a paintball facility, a watersports center, and an oceanfront spa are just some of the amenities that you can enjoy.

ST. LUCIA

Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa

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1. Amanda Dress www.aliceandtrixie.com

4. Sol Italian Bandeau Top and Sol Lr String Bikini - www.cosabella.com

Essentials

2. June Earrings www.elvafields.com

5. Shimmer & Glow Beautiful Body Kit www.pacificaperfume.com

3. Sol One Piece Bathing Suit www.cosabella.com

6. Dolce Babydoll www.cosabella.com

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7. Kimono Style Robe - Beckoning Creatures store.plumprettysugar.com

10. Bond V Noire Shoe Bags www.hudsonandbleecker.com

13. The Lulemon Garter www.lagartier.com

8. Sometimes Not Subtle Necklace www.elvafields.com

11. Eden Chemise www.inbloombyjonquil.com

14. Boat Neck Dress store.plumprettysugar.com

9. Cascades Galore Necklace in Coral www.mimiboutique.com

12. Erin Dress www.aliceandtrixie.com

15. Satin and Lace Babydoll & G-string Set www.cosabella.com

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Great Bridal Extravaganza Presented by Tradeshow Productions USA

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Dyker Heights Club 1020 86th Street Brooklyn, N.Y. 11217 Tuesday, February 19

Crescent Beach 333 Bayville Ave. Bayville, N.Y. 11709 Sunday, March 10

Islandia Marriott 3635 Express Dr N Islandia, N.Y. 11749 Thursday, May 2

Islandia Marriott 3635 Express Dr N Islandia, N.Y. 11749 Sunday, February 24

Westchester Manor 140 Saw Mill River Rd. Yonkers, N. Y. 10706 Wednesday, April 10

Location TBA 268 West 47th Street New York, N.Y. 10036 Mon, May 6 - 5:30-9PM

Holiday Inn 1 Holiday Inn Drive Mount Kisco, N.Y. 10549 Thursday, February 28

Holiday Inn 1 Holiday Inn Drive Mount Kisco, N.Y. 10549 Thursday, April 18

Holiday Inn 215 Sunnyside Blvd. Plainview, N.Y. 11803 Wednesday, May 22

Hampshire Club 125 Cove Road Mamaronek, N.Y. 10543 Sunday, March 3

Crystal Room 67 Olympia Blvd. Staten Island, N.Y. 10305 Thursday, April 25

Melville Marriott 1350 Walt Whitman Rd Melville, N,Y, 11746 Monday, June 3

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