Vermont Bride Magazine Winter 2013

vermont bride military wedding giveaway love story princess gowns winter inspiration favor diy top ten ways to save money on your wedding

and more...

invitation roundup

winter 2013 vermontbridemagazine.com

Any season. Any reason.

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Contents

winter 2013

p. 38

the princess bride

28

By Josee Telfer

personalize your wedding music:

musical choices from the heart

34

By Lisa Carlson

Your Love Story, Now and Forever 36

By Jacqueline Langley Vermont bride military wedding giveaway love story

38

kelly (greene) & Shawn Lane

invitation inspiration

45

inspiration | winter wonderland

51

bright receptions

58

By Karen Sturtevant p. 51

contributors 12 Staff Notes

16

VT Bride Loves | silver

18

top ten ways to save money on your wedding

20

VT Bride Loves | gold

21

VT Bride Photo Album

22

your wedding, your way

26

By Pat Esden

your wedding & your parents

By Rev. Dr. Michael Caldwell p. 45 w w w.v er m o ntb ri d e m a g a zi n e.co m

vermont bride winter 2013 | 7

contents contd. p. 52

p. 84

love story

60

inspiration | shore chic

66

do me a favor

72

love story

74

Abby (feather) & Jeffrey nelsen

kristen (leclerc) & corey Cicio

my stuff, your stuff, our registry

80

wedding uplighting

82

the informed traveler

84

By Kim Dixon and Megan Breen

By Grant Allendorf ecuador

By Carrie McDougall

the fit spot

88

it's all about choices

By Sara Phillips

vermont bride marketplace

90

vendor index

94

the fifty nifty project

98

p. 66 8 | vermont bride winter 2013

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soea.com

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 9

Helping brides plan perfect weddings since 1990 PUBLISHERS

On our website, find resources for

vermont bride military wedding giveaway love story princess gowns winter inspiration favor diy top ten ways to save money on your wedding

and more...

invitation roundup

winter 2013 vermontbridemagazine.com

cover by stacie maddox Photography

Vickie Karnes, Steven Karnes

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Karen Sturtevant | vtbride@vermontbridemagazine.com ART DIRECTOR

Colleen Kuerth | colleen@vermontbridemagazine.com staff photographer

cakes + music

Stacie Maddox | vtbride@vermontbridemagazine.com

venues + flowers

Jackie Watson | Jackie@vermontbridemagazine.com

photographers invitations + more

vermontbridemagazine.com

Sales & Marketing

Lynn Roberge | vtbride@vermontbridemagazine.com Joe Karnes | vtbride@vermontbridemagazine.com advertising director

Contributing Photographers Ampersand Wedding Photography, Larry Asam Photography, Ayer Photography of Vermont Green Mountain Photobooth, Ben Hudson Photography, J. Larose Photography, Letter10 Creative, Stacie Maddox Photography, Kim Martin Photography, The Portrait Gallery, Polis Photography, RaidenShine Photography, Saint Phalle Photography, Jeff Schneiderman Photography Copy Editors Karen Sturtevant, Colleen Kuerth, Vickie Karnes, Steven Karnes Contributing Writers Grant Allendorf, Michael Caldwell, Lisa Carlson, Linda & Joe Crosby, Kim Dixon , Pat Esden, Claudia Gonzalez, Colleen Kuerth, Carrie McDougall, Karen Sturtevant, Josee Telfer

Vermont Bride • P.O. Box 143 Westford, Vermont 05494

vtbride@vermontbridemagazine.com

802.879.3157 Copyright Š Vermont Bride Magazine www.vermontbridemagazine.com Vermont Bride is published quarterly and is available throughout Vermont and internationally via mail. Statements and opinion published within Vermont Bride Magazine does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Every effort is made for accuracy for all material printed herein, however the publishers of Vermont Bride disclaim all responsibility of liability for omissions and errors.

Member of

10 | vermont bride winter 2013

printed by

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Shelburne Vermont

vermont bride winter 2013 | 11

VT Bride

contributors

Grant Allendorf

Pat Esden

Grant Allendorf is the owner of Supersounds Entertainment (www.supersounds.com), Video Memory and Green Mt. Photobooth ( www.greenmtphotobooth.com). Supersounds has been voted Vermont’s #1 DJ Service. Contact Grant at supersounds. entertainment@gmail.com.

Pat has worked in the wedding industry for over twenty-five years. As a master floral designer and owner of Esden Florist in Fairfield, Vermont, she sees the yearly changes in wedding styles and is familiar with the time-honored traditions and in tune with the new conventions. www. esdenflorist.net andvermontbridemagazine.com/esden-florist.php.

Kerry Armstrong

Claudia Gonzalez

Kerry Armstrong is a hair stylist specializing in formal hair design.

Kerry has a passion for hair and she loves being a part of someone's special day and seeing it all come together. Kerry owns Kerry Armstrong Formal Hair Design and also works as a stylist at Orbit Hair Design in South Burlington. Kerry resides in Milton with her husband, son and black lab.. www.kerryarmstrongvt.com

Claudia Gonzalez is a UVM graduate and freelance fashion writer.

She has contributed on fashion photo shoots in NYC and Montreal.

She lives in Burlington, VT with daughters Zoe and Mackenzie and boyfriend Dave.

Rev. Dr. Michael Caldwell Rev. Dr. Michael Caldwell (whose parishioners call “Rev Michael”) runs the Partnership Center of Vermont (www.coachingcenterofvt.com) from his home in North Wolcott, VT. Along with his ministry in New England’s Congregational tradition, he coaches couples preparing for marriage, and officiates ceremonies all over Vermont, indoors or outside. Contact Michael for a free consultation at 802-888-5811. Email: michael.caldwell.75@alum. dartmouth.org. Website: www.coachingcenterofvt.com.

Lisa Carlson Lisa Carlson performs at weddings throughout Vermont in collaboration with numerous instrumentalists, offering duos of flute with harp, violin, piano, oboe, or cello, a trio of flute with violin and cello, as well as solo flute and other combinations. She also teaches private and group flute lessons at her private studio at 18 Langdon Street in Montpelier, and maintains a web site at www.lisaflute.com and a wedding music blog at www.lisaflute.com/weddingblog. Lisa lives in Middlesex with her husband, daughters and two cats, and can be reached at 802-229-9901 or lisa@lisaflute.com.

Joe & Linda Crosby The RaidenShine Photography team consists of two dedicated photographers that have a passion about wedding photography, quality and customer service. Joe and Linda Crosby are both award-winning photographers in their own right and combine to make a great team.

Active members of Wedding and Portrait Photographers International (WPPI), they meet annually with other WPPI photographers from all over the world to exchange ideas, new products, and new technologies so that they can bring those ideas and technologies to their Vermont Brides. www.raidenshine.com.

Kim Dixon Kim Dixon owns Insights LLC, a Waterbury-based company specializing in marketing solutions for small Vermont business. She is also the marketing director at Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa.

12 | vermont bride winter 2013

Colleen Kuerth Colleen Kuerth is the owner of Truly Noted Invitations and Stationery and has over six years of experience designing invitations. Contact her for more information on creating the perfect invitation for your wedding. www.trulynoted.net, info@trulynoted.net.

Stacie Maddox Stacie Maddox is the photographer/owner of Stacie Maddox Photography located in South Burlington, Vermont. Stacie studied at University of Southern Maine and Maine Media. Photography packages include weddings, engagements, bachelorette parties, and trash the dress sessions. Stacie strives to bring out the uniqueness of every session and person. Contact her for more information at www.staciemaddoxblog. com or stacie@staciemaddoxblog.com

Carrie McDougall Carrie McDougall is the owner of Cultural Crossroads, offering customized tours for individuals, family and friends as well as educational and nonprofit organizations. Trips provide cultural opportunities and private unique experiences worldwide. Their tours have been honored by Conde Nast Traveler and have been featured in National Geographic Traveler’s section Tours of a Lifetime. Contact Carrie at (toll-free) 877-479-7040, e-mail Carrie@CulturalCrossroads.com, or visit www.CulturalCrossroads.com.

Karen Sturtevant Karen Sturtevant is a freelance writer, editor of Vermont Bride, and is the author of the children's book, The Adventures of Gert & Stu and Zippy too (www.facebook.com/pages/The-Adventures-of-Gert-Stu-and-Zippytoo). She lives in Williston,V T with her longtime partner, Mike, and looks forward to visits from her out-of-state college daughter, Kayla.

Josee Telfer Josee Telfer works at Fiori Bridal Boutique located at Five Corners in Essex Junction. Along with assisting brides in choosing their wedding gown, she manages the Fiori blog. Josee also enjoys doing calligraphy for weddings and special events. She lives in Fairfax with her husband Eric and two sons, Michel and Andrew. Josee@fioribridal.com. www. fioribridal.com. 802-872-966

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Cakes that are moist and delicious, from simply elegant to extravagantly unique.

Sweets 802-434-2400 snafflesweets.com

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 15

VT Bride

staff notes I

Karen Sturtevant Vermont Bride Editor-In-Chief

’ve never been much for New Year’s resolutions. My resolve to give up sugar/lose 10 pounds/exercise more/gossip less always seems to last about three days before old habits return. One resolution I won’t have to make is the dedication to this little magazine you hold in your hands. Is it just me or does Vermont Bride just get better and better? Our art director, Colleen Kuerth, has created magic within these pages as creativity, inspiration, and imagery soar!

While the winter temperatures drop outside, get comfy and begin warming from the inside with our Inspiration Boards: gold and silver—a fitting theme for the season. In addition to introducing professional vendors for your wedding team, we are happy to offer articles in your quest for planning your Big Day. Check out Pat Esden’s Top 10 Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding (page 20), Your Wedding, Your Way: Your Wedding and Your Parents, (page 26) by Rev. Dr. Michael Caldwell, and find out what uplighting is in Grant Allendorf ’s Wedding Uplighting (page 82).

Need a winter pick-me-up? Close your eyes and imagine a honeymoon in the land of eternal spring, Ecuador. Carrie McDougall brings us there on page 84. Lisa Carlson gives us Musical Choices from the Heart—get your tissues handy, and new Fit Spot contributor, Sara Phillips, tells us It’s All About Choices. See what choices she means, beginning on page 88.

Planning a wedding and new life is equally exciting and exhausting. Our love story couples know something about beginning new lives together and allow us to share in their journey. Meet Kelly and Shawn, our military wedding giveaway winners; Abby and Jeffrey; and Kristen and Corey. Each of their stories is uniquely special.

I was amazed (and bet you will be too) when I saw the Winter Wonderland (page 51) and Shore Chic (page 66) Inspiration layouts. Then, would you do me a favor, and turn to page 72? Trust me, you’ll like what you find.

No matter where you are in your wedding planning, we are here to help and make the trip a little less rocky.

Bundle up, stay healthy, and enjoy this dynamic winter issue of Vermont Bride.

inspiration to warm your heart

photo by j larose photogra phy

photo by staci e madd ox phot ogra

16 | vermont bride winter 2013

phy

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 17

Silver

VT Bride

platinum + navy

dark silver + teal

loves

medium silver + purple

Mr and Mrs Richard Vessella request the pleasure of your presence at the marriage of their daughter

Lauren Dianne to

Mark Roll share in the celebration of their marriage and the joining of their families saturday, september 30th two-thousand and eleven at half past four in the afternoon the round church richmond, VT

Clockwise from top left | Carlina Silver Textured Shoes by G by Guess: heels.com Silver Wedding Bands: precious things jewelers, preciousthingsjewelers.com photo by j. larose photography Silver Bark Wedding Invitation: truly noted, trulynoted.net Silver Tablescape: design by hey gorgeous events, heygorgeousevents.com photo by jenna mckenzi photography, jennamckenzi.com 18 | vermont bride winter 2013

reception at 6 p.m. the ponds bolton, vt

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 19

Top Ten Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding

By Pat Esden

There are a number of ways to reduce the cost of a wedding. To be most effective, they need to be considered at the earliest stages of planning.

T

he best way to save money is to reduce the number of people invited. Shrinking the guest list increases the number of reception sites a bride can choose from. This means traditional reception sites can be used as well as smaller venues such as inns, historic sites, museums, ferries or clubs. Cutting back the guest list also reduces the number of meals a bride will have to provide, which is one of the largest wedding expenses.

Having a wedding at home in a tent may seem like a way to save money, but you’ll have to rent a ton of items such as tables, chairs, linens, silverware, glassware, and port-a-potties. Very quickly the cost per guest of a tent wedding can rise above that of a wedding at an all inclusive reception hall.

Most reception facilities costs vary depending on the time of year and day of the week.

To save money, consider having an off-season wedding. A Friday evening or weeknight wedding in spring or late autumn is likely to cut costs dramatically.

If a bride doesn’t want to reduce the number of guests, she still can lower the per plate cost of the meal without sacrificing quality and, in some cases, without even changing the menu. Food cost is related to labor cost. A bride should ask the caterer or reception hall wedding coordinator for their cost saving suggestions.

Time taken to ask questions and listen carefully to the caterer or coordinator is literally worth its weight in gold.

Another way to cut costs is to have the wedding ceremony and reception at the same location. This reduces several expenses such as the limousine costs, the photographer’s travel time and decoration costs. It also eliminates some smaller purchases like emergency umbrellas and providing necessity baskets for two locations.

20 | vermont bride winter 2013

The number of attendants also directly influences the overall costs. On the surface, it may appear like attendants shouldn’t even be a wedding expense. Brides and grooms often end up covering the price of clothing, shoes, manicures, haircuts, makeup, even hotel rooms and airfare for attendants who cannot afford them. All these expenses are multiplied by the number of attendants and can quickly exceed a bride’s planned budget.

The bridal gown can either be one of a wedding’s larger expenses or it can be a cost reduction. Secondhand or borrowed gowns can be worn for little or nothing, but most brides prefer to have a wider selection and a new dress.

The key with getting a good deal on a gown is to shop early. Most bridal shops have large sales in the fall and winter. In-stock gowns, styles that are from the previous year, dresses that have been worn in fashion shows or those with minute damage can all be purchased at reduced prices. Don’t be afraid to ask the sales staff if there are sales coming up or any special offers.

If a bride co-ops with another bride she can save dollars and sometimes afford more than if she tried to decorate on her own. It’s not unusual for couples getting married at the same location and on the same day to share pew bows and floral decorations. Purchasing items a year ahead will allow brides to take advantage of offseason sale prices, which will reduce prices even further.

One of the easiest ways to save money is for a bride to simply know when to close her wallet and stop adding on. Extra details are nice, but if a bride didn’t intend on decorating all the pillars in the church or every chair at the reception, then she shouldn’t add it on at the last minute. Cutting add-ons can save hundreds and even thousands of dollars.

Top ten ways to save money when planning a wedding.

❶ ❷

Red uce num ber of guests.

Listen to the rec eption

co ord inator and ask qu estions.

❸

Consider an off-sea son

tim e of yea r or a less

co nventi on al day of

the week.

❹

Reduce num ber of attendants.

❺

Consider bridal

gown options.

❻ e.

B ❼ uy decorations off-season.

R ❽ ent items. ❾ Substitute or elim inate

we Co-o p with another brid

ddi ng favors.

➓

Resist the urge to keep sho ppin g!

continued on page 83

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gold + chocolate brown

gold + green

gold + coral

Gold

VT Bride

loves

Clockwise from left: Gold Cake: faye cahill cake design, fayecahill.com.au photo by lucy leonardi photography, lucyleonardi.com Gold Wedding Invitation:design & photo by letter10 creative, letter10creative.com Gold Candle: photo by Letter10 Creative, letter10creative.com Gold Glitter Garland: steph loves ben, stephlovesben.etsy.com w w w.v er m o ntb ri d e m a g a zi n e.co m

vermont bride winter 2013 | 21

Vermont Bride Photo Album

te Vermont photographers.

favori Our favorite inspirational pics from our

Letter10 Creative

Ayer Photography

Lemoureux Photography

Saint Phalle Photography

Portrait Gallery

Letter10 Creative

Larry Asam Photography

Polis Photography

RaidenShine Photography Saint Phalle Photography

Ampersand Wedding Photography

Vermont Bride Photo Album

favorite shots from Vermont's best! our of re mo h wit ues tin con n atio pir The ins

Jeff Schneiderman Photography

Stacie Maddox Photography

Ben Hudson Photography Lemoureux Photography

Jeff Schneiderman 6 Photography

Ayer Photography

Polis Photography

a

Stacie Maddox Photography Ben

Hudson Photography

Ampersand Wedding Photography

Larry Asam Photography

1 aaaaaaaaaaaaaa for more info on these recommended photography professionals, see the vendor index on page 96

and find more of Vermont's best photographers on our website at: vermontbridemagazine.com/vermont-wedding-photographers-and-photography.php

“Your Wedding & Your Parents”

Your Wedding, Your Way:

By Rev. Dr. Michael Caldwell, Partnership Center of Vermont photos by kim martin photography

O

wedding, especially in the following ways.

Is the ceremony space and officiant ne of the cartoons on my bulletin board arranged for by the parents or by the couple? shows in the first two frames a mom sitting in Sometimes there is an expectation—traditionfront of her laptop, excitedly sharing her vision ally by the bride’ s parents—that, no matter for her daughter’s wedding. Her daughter sits where the couple will be living, the couple will bytoKim Dixon next her, trying politely to get her attention. In be married in the sanctuary of her photos courtesy of Snowflake mountain Resort &parents’ Spa faith the third and fourth frame, the mom stops and community.

While this can be arranged in a daughter speaks. healthy way if the couple takes charge, it’ s often

“Mom, it’s not going to be that kind of wedbetter when the ceremony is either in or near the ding.” community where the couple will be residing

“What kind of wedding?” after the wedding.

“The wedding from hell… we decided

Have they established a connection with a against that.” local faith community of their own? Do they see

One of the things that ideally happens in their wedding as an opportunity for that? (Obvithe planning of a wedding is a healthy differentiaously, in a destination wedding, the question tion between the couple getting married and about the space is moot.

But choice of officiant both sets of parents. Not enough attention is still matters.) given to using the planning process to establish

Will bride and groom use the opportunity the kind of boundaries with parents that will in wedding planning to differentiate themselves bode well for integrity of the new family created from their parents?

Some families are “enin the marriage. Several factors are influential. meshed. ” The classic case is that of the son who

Who’s paying for the wedding and recepis tied to his mother’ s apron strings long after tion? Traditionally, the bride’s parents shoulder he gets married.

The effect on the marriage can the bulk of the cost of the reception. Sometimes be disastrous when he doesn’t tell his mom his the groom’s folks will foot the bill for the rehearsprimary loyalty is now with his new wife and not al dinner. But these arrangements vary according with her.

Or, a bride may need to tell her dad he’s to family and cultural considerations. In the not going to be asked the traditional question past, couples could remain under the ongoing “who gives this woman to be married to this influence of parents by the way the wedding was man?” because she’ s not his to give away in the paid for. Now, couples who wait to get married first place, and because all parents and stepparuntil they have established their careers can pay ents have a role in “letting go.” more of the costs for the wedding. Even if parents

When these factors are attended to with still pay most of the costs, couples need to be the wedding coach and officiant, the wedding clear about what their needs and expectations ceremony and the marriage it creates will estabare, rather than “go along” placidly with parents’ lish a new family with an integrity of its own. preferences. In the best circumstances, they have When kids come along, new parenting styles can more clout about the way things unfold in the 26 | vermont bride winter 2013

unfold that conform to the specific intentions of the couple rather than conscious or unconscious parenting approaches they were given by their parents.

“Honor your father and your mother” is one of the Ten Commandments in JudeoChristian tradition. Today, a healthy psychology of relationship means the best way couples can honor their parents is to be crystal clear with them that they will always love them and that they are also establishing their own new clearly defined family as the wedding planning unfolds.

Rev. Dr. Michael Caldwell (whose parishioners call “Rev Michael”) runs the Partnership Center of Vermont (www.coachingcenterofvt. com) from his home in North Wolcott, VT. Along with his ministry in New England’s Congregational tradition, he coaches couples preparing for marriage, and officiates ceremonies all over Vermont, indoors or outside. Contact Michael for a free consultation at 802-888-5811. Email: michael.caldwell.75@alum.dartmouth.org.

Website: www.coachingcenterofvt.com.

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photos by North Photography

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authorized dealer

trulynoted.net trulynoted.etsy.com info@trulynoted.net vermont bride winter 2013 | 27

Dolce Satin Gown with Tulle Skirt

Ella Bridals 5647

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ďż˝

Princess Bride

By Josee Telfer

A

t some point in their lives most women have pictured themselves on their wedding day. If not long before the engagement, then certainly during the planning process, women begin to form a distinct image in their minds of what they'll look like on the most important day of their lives. Some will have a clear picture of simple, understated elegance, some will envision a vintage or whimsical look while others will see the princess bride: dramatic and regal.

While the princess look can vary from bride to bride, it is typically a classic ball gown silhouette or a full, lush skirt in either silky satin or tulle. Some prefer little to no embellishments, while other brides want beading, sequins and pearl accents. Regardless of detail, the princess gown is romantic, timeless and unmistakably feminine. The full skirt is a great option for tall brides as well as those who want to play down fuller hips.

Petite brides should not exclude this option, however, as skirts can have a range of fullness, depending on the fabric.

If you want to look and feel like a princess on your wedding day, definitely consider gowns with a voluminous skirt or a ball gown silhouette. Even if the princess look isn't your personal style, Fiori Bridal Boutique in Essex Junction has many other options to best suit the bride in you.

Visit us at fioribridal.com or call to schedule an appointment at 872-9663 18 Main Street Essex Junction, VT

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 29

French Mikado with optional flower at waist Ella Bridals 5679

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 33

Personalize Your Wedding Music:

Musical Choices from the Heart

want, while some have no idea. Sometimes the choice, as you make it, stirs your process can feel easy, sometimes overwhelming. soul, helps you to understand and As you can imagine from the list of processionrespect one another better—your

By Lisa Carlson als mentioned above (all from weddings I’ve similarities and your differences— played this past year), the options for wedding and brings on the joy or the tears or photos by letter10 creative music can be wide open and virtually limitless. the strength or the vulnerability that If you’re overwhelmed with the decisions about you seek, than that will be felt by wedding music, first speak with the professional others present at your wedding. musician you’ve chosen for your wedding. They

This past year, I met with a wedding couple still often cry at weddings. This may sound may be able to make some suggestions that strike and as I was playing through a few possible like a strange admission from someone who a chord for you and that they know sound great processionals, the bride-to-be told me, “That plays music at weddings all the time. Especially with the instruments you’ve chosen. There are one made me cry!” Well, I played a few more a flutist—no one wants a flutist sputtering and also numerous lists of options available online. A possibilities just to be sure, but it seemed clear squeaking into their instrument during their proGoogle search may make the difference between that “Sheep May Safely Graze” was the one that cessional. Rest assured, I have learned to turn off not knowing where to start and — “Aha! That’s was meant to be the wedding party processional the faucet at the right times, but, well, I do often perfect!” And of course there’s YouTube. Your for her wedding, where her daughter would cry at weddings.

It doesn’t seem to matter for me whether they’ve chosen Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” for processional or “When You Wish Upon a Star;” “Adagio” from Handel’s G major flute sonata or the Celtic tune “Fannie Power;” Schubert’s “Ave Maria” or Journey’s “Don’t’ Stop Believin;” Wagner’s “Bridal Chorus” or “Laendler” from Sound of Music; the Filipino popular song “Ikaw” or the professional may be able to send you links to be the junior maid of honor. As I was playing Jewish traditional song “Dodi Li” (my beloved) videos to give you some ideas, or you can browse “Sheep May Safely Graze” as a duo with my own or the Broadway hit “’Til There Was You.” When yourself. violinist daughter months later at this wedding, I know the choice of ceremony music is heartfelt and the bride’s daughter was walking up the aisle,

Your first step: know that your options are and reflects either the bride or groom’s love of well, yes, I held off the tears for the time being, virtually unlimited, but can be very simple if you tradition or their desire to be unique in a particubut only due to years of experience. I’ve played know what clicks for you. Your second step: find lar way, especially when I know that a particular “Sheep May Safely Graze” many times, as well as the music that makes your heart skip a beat or tune brings tears to their eyes, I do frequently get the Pachelbel Canon that followed for the bride’s that brings you joy or sighs or tears or whatever caught up in the joy and emotion of the moment. processional, but in this moment, knowing how emotion you wish for your day. The loved ones

Your wedding day is, in the very best sense, the bride felt about these pieces, I felt the music who gather with you on your day will feel it too. all about you. It’s a time when you choose from a with a fresh perspective, energy and emotion. by linda & joe crosby palette of colors, sounds, views and words that re Some couples know exactly what they flect you—as individuals and as a couple. If each photos by raidenshine photography

I

"Your wedding day is, in the very best sense, all about you. It’s a time when you choose from a palette of colors, sounds, views and words that reflect you—as individuals and as a couple."

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Ö-Ö-Ö--Ö-ÖVermont Bride is proud to recommend the following featured wedding professionals for all your live musical entertainment needs:

For topnotch classical music, consider:

Classic Consort | classicconsort.com Duo, trio and quartet options of strings or woodwinds or a combination.

For a polished and purist Celtic approach, including professional storytelling, consider: Sheefra | sheefra.net Celtic harp with concertina.

Lisa Carlson | lisaflute.com A variety of combinations that include flute, choose classical or Celtic, pop, Broadway and more – solo, duos, trios or quartet, with harp, piano, strings, winds or a combination.

If you’d like a full band, consider:

Vermont Wedding Violinist | vtweddingviolinist.com Solo or duet violinist, with optional piano accompaniment.

HP Entertainment | hpbands.com A variety of options of high quality bands in a wide range of music styles.

For folk, jazz, and/or blues combined with classical options, consider:

Queen City Hot Club | Facebook.com/QueenCityHotClub VermontBrideMagazine.com/Queen-City-Hot-Club.php Gypsy Jazz, Hot Swing, Jazz Manouche.

Love That Duo | lovethatduo.com Guitar with violin or mandolin.

Green Mountain Swing | greenmountainswing.com For the big band sound.

Swing Noire | swingnoire.com Gypsy jazz, hot swing, Jazz Manouche.

-Ö-Ö-Ö-Ö-Ö-Dayve Huckett | dayvehuckett.net Guitar, solo or duos with voila or flute in repertoire to suit your interests.

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Your Love Story, Now and Forever

By Jacqueline Langley

T

he first blush of love is remembered for a lifetime. You never forget the moment “you knew.” How you met is a story you want to tell and one that family members , friends and offspring want to hear. Why not capture it forever on video?

Video has been called the greatest communication tool of our times. With the use of technology, the world has once again turned to an oral tradition of passing down stories. Video enhances the telling of the story and captivates its audience through the use of sight, sound and motion. Backroads and Blacktops Video uses this medium to turn your love story into a “living treasure” with engaging , moving images coupled with the emotions and joys of your own voice telling your tale.

The crew of Backroads and Blacktops Video includes highly trained journalists , so your video will be content driven and edited with precision to bring out the best of your memories. In a world packed with aspiring video makers, these skills make our work stand out from the crowd.

The final video can be played at your wedding and at your reception. This is also a great tool to send your story across the globe via your social networking sites. What a great way to bring those people who couldn’t make your wedding ceremony into the celebration of this milestone in your life.

A love story video preserves your memories for a lifetime. It is an investment in your legacy. Call us today, so we can get started.

Backroads & Blacktops VIDEO 882 King Rd. Wolcott, VT 05680 (802) 888-1858 info@backroadsandblacktops.com www.backroadsandblacktopsvideo.com

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laura macchia PAPER GOODS & CUSTOM DESIGN

DIGITAL & LETTERPRESS READY - MADE & CUSTOM

BEAUTIFUL & AFFORDABLE

WEDDING INVITATIONS

www.lauramacchia.com | 802.279.4063 | info@lauramacchia.com

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vermont bride military wedding giveaway love story winners

Kelly (Greene) & Shawn Lane september 2, 2012 ye olde engl and inne | Stowe, Vermont

B

Photography: polis photography and jonathan couture photography

rought together by the tragedy of losing Kelly's Uncle Glenn, who served with Shawn in the Vermont National Guard, Kelly Greene and Shawn Lane's love story was just beginning. Neither would imagine that a year and a half after Shawn proposed, they would be surrounded by their family and friends at the wedding of their dreams. Kelly entered the Vermont Bride Military Wedding Giveaway on a whim, writing about the romance her uncle set in motion, but never had the chance to witness in life.

Struggling to open an inn in honor of her Uncle Glenn, the couple had little left over for a wedding and plans were put on the back burner. Never thinking they would win, Kelly and Shawn were both shocked to get a phone call from giveaway organizer Jackie Watson, of VT Enchanted Events, congratulating them on being the chosen couple. It took a few days to sink in and soon they were swept up in a whirlwind of planning and excitement for their big day.

On September 2, 2012, at Ye Olde England Inne located in Stowe, Vermont, Kelly and Shawn became husband and wife. Their wedding was full of amazing work from some of the area's best wedding vendors, who came together to create this amazing giveaway. Find out more information about the participating vendors on page 44.

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 39

top four photos: polis photography | bottom pohoto and champagne montage: jonathan couture photography

top left, middle and right photos: polis photography | bottom left photo: jonathan couture photography

What was your theme/color palette?

Our theme was Country Chic. We used traditional fall colors; burgundy, light yellow, cream, and rust.

What were some of your favorite moments?

What was your favorite detail from your wedding?

Our flower arrangements were all amazing. We had three different vendors and each one did a fabulous job. And the mason jars were spectacular.

Kelly: Shawn surprised me by singing a portion of his vows.

How did your wedding reflect your relationship as a couple?

Our wedding incorporated everything that was important to us. It was simple yet eloquent. While we had so much given to us for our wedding we kept a piece of us in some of the smaller pieces. Kelly’s mom made a “Here Comes the Bride” penent, decorated cake knife, and rather than a traditional guest book we had a frame for everyone to sign that she also made. To keep a bit of our simple country in our wedding Kelly’s mom also made red solo cup “wine glasses.” Each of the wedding party received one with the bride and grooms extra decorated.

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Shawn: Watching Kelly step out of the limo and walking up the aisle. Having Kelly’s Aunt Caroline sing during the ceremony meant a great deal to us.

It was Kelly’s childhood dream to have her sing at her wedding. Everyone seemed so happy, which meant a great deal to us.

What was the song you had your first dance to?

“God Gave Me You” Blake Sheldon

How did your vendors help make your wedding day perfect?

Our wedding vendors were great. They all made everything seem to perfect.

We never had to worry about a thing.

vermont bride winter 2013 | 41

top and right photos: polis photography | bottom left photo: jonathan couture photography

all photos this page: polis photography

a very warm and heartfelt

Thank You

to all of the amazing vendors who made the Vermont Bride Military Wedding Giveaway possible!

Featured Vermont Bride wedding professionals: Event Planner: VT Enchanted Events vtenchantedevents.com

Flowers: Sarah’s Weddings by Betty’s Flower Basket sarahsweddings.com Uncle George’s Flowers | unclegeorgesflowers.com

Venue & Catering: ye olde England Inne englandinn.com

Entertainment: SuperSounds DJ, Co | supersounds.com

Photography: Polis Photography | polisfoto.com Rentals: Weddings, Tents & Events weddingstentsevents.com

PhotoBooth: Green Mountain Photobooth greenmtphotobooth.com ceremony music: Lisa Carlson | lisaflute.com

Invitations: Truly Noted | trulynoted.net other Featured wedding professionals: wedding website: VIP Consulting | consultwithvip.com, Cake: Sweet Crunch Bake Shop | sweetcrunchbakeshop.com, Videography: Bear Pond Productions | bearpondproductions.com, PHOTOGRAPHY: Jonathan Couture Photography | hjcouturephoto.com, FLOWRS: Jay View Wedding Flowers | jayviewweddingflowers.com, Bridal Suite: Top Notch Resort | topnotchresort.com, Ring Bearer Pillow & Keepsake DVD: Keepsakes by Nana | facebook.com/KeepsakesByNana, Hair: Ashley Moran & Kim Edwards, Makeup: Cynthia's Spa | cynthiaspa.com, Mary Kay by Linda Leu, Accommodations: The Smuggler’s Notch Inn | smuggsinn.com, Appetizers: Vermont Creamery | vermontcreamery.com, Green Mountain Market, TRANSPORTATION: Ethan Allen Coachworks | vermontlimo.com

VT Enchanted events and VermontWeddings.com are pleased to announce the 2013 Salute to our Soldiers Wedding Giveaway!

Photo by Michael Riddell

Win a Vermont Winter Wedding at The Mountain Top Inn & Resort and have your love story published in vermont bride magazine!

Valued at over $70,000, featuring the area's finest wedding professionals, including: 822 Weddings, Barrie Fisher Photography, Carman Brook Farms, Creative Muse Floral, Cuisine Lucette, Cynthea's Spa, Dave Huckett, Five Elements, Hawley’s Florist, Irene’s Cakes by Design, Keepsakes by Nana, Lake Champlain Chocolates, The Linen Shop by Occasions, Love Buzz Photo, The Mountain Top Inn & Resort, New Leaf Organics, Perennial Studios, Shear Heaven, SuperSounds DJ, Truly Noted, VickeryHill, VT Enchanted Events Visit VermontWeddings.com December 15, 2012 - April 1, 2013 to enter.

Invitation Inspiration gorgeous stationery inspiration from Vermont's finest invitation designers photos by the portrait gallery

calligraphy envelopes by lydia batten, lydiabatten.com vintage stamps from verde studio, verdestudio.etsy.com

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that's inviting thats-inviting.com | kate@youlendesign.com

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lydia batten calligraphy lydiabatten.com | lydia@lydiabatten.com

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letter10 creative letter10creative.com | j@letter10creative.com

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laura macchia paper goods & custom design lauramacchia.com | info@lauramacchia.com

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Truly Noted trulynoted.net | info@trulynoted.net

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i nspi r ation

Winter Wonderland photos by stacie maddox photography

Models: kerry and david armstrong | Hair and makeup: lush salon, lushstowe.com

Featured Vermont Bride wedding professionals: Photographer: Stacie Maddox Photography 802.923.6659 | staciemaddoxphotography.com

Florist: Esden Florist 802.827.6160 | esdenflorist.net

Venue: Burlington Country Club 802.864.4683 | burlingtoncountryclub.org

Cake: Delicate Decadence 802.479.7948 | delicate-decadence.com

Gown: Fiori Bridal Boutique 802-872-9663 | fioribridal.com

Hot Chocolate Bar Sign: That's Inviting 802.318.3125 | thats-inviting.com

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That’s

Inviting!

Fun, Fresh, Creative

Wedding Invitations

with a twist

& Stationery

THE

CAREY’S

Thats-Inviting.com (802) 318-3125

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Bright Receptions photo by letter10 creative

C

andles are a classic way to add elegance and beauty to any celebration, without breaking the budget. Historically candles have played an important role and their popularity remains strong for today’s brides. From unity candles to simple tea lights and DIY iced creations, candles are an excellent choice for adding ambiance and atmosphere.

A lightly scented candle fills the air with fragrance. A combination of scented and unscented will keep the space from being overpowered with aroma. The goal is not to saturate the room, but to introduce the scent as hint of essence. For winter celebrations, scents of balsam and cedar, cinnamon, and peppermint are perfect compliments to the season.

The use of tea lights in votive holders is timeless. Choose clear or colored holders of glass, crystal, stone, or wood. Use baby food jars and canning jars for added variety.

Add visual interest with tall tapers placed in a variety of colored long-necked glass bottles. Visit recycle stores, stop at yard sales and keep your eyes open for these treasures. An eclectic mix of glass can be a very eyepleasing display.

Wine and champagne glasses can be turned into a visual feast. Add flower petals, tiny shells, sand, river rocks, or marbles, and you’ve made an art piece. For the creative bride, decoupage the outside of the glass with sheer colored, textured paper and you’ve just made a one-of-a kind

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By Karen Sturtevant

centerpiece.

Branches of berries and nuts frame pillars. Use varying heights of pillars for maximum visual impact. Place any and everywhere.

Use low glass containers or hurricane lamps filled with water or glass gems (clear or colored) and add floating candles.

With candles in crystal holders displayed on top of a mirror, the imagery is doubled. Consider custom-made shaped glass. Sprinkle petals, glitter, or silver or gold beads on the glass for glitz and bling.

Make fire and ice. The do it herself bride will love iced votive holders.

Make by placing a smaller plastic container (yogurt, sour cream size) inside a larger one (ice cream size). Add rocks to the smaller container for weight. Fill the outside container ⅔ full with cold water. Use duct tape to hold the two containers in place. Don’t push the inside container all the way to the bottom of the larger container. Be sure to leave some room for the base of the candle. Freeze overnight. Fill smaller container with cold water to release, and then run cold water on the outside of the larger container. Place a tea light inside and voila! These look incredible lining an outside drive, street, or stairs.

Add romance and charm to your reception with candles!

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"From unity candles to simple tea lights and DIY iced creations, candles are an excellent choice for adding ambiance and atmosphere."

Ö-Ö-Ö--Ö-Öbottom two photos by letter10 creative

Abby (Feather) ďż˝ Jeffrey Nelsen love story

September 8, 2012 White Rocks Inn | Wallingford, VT Photos: Stephanie Egan Photography

How and where did you meet?

In the fall of 2008 Jeff was living in Concord, NH and I was living in Portland, ME. Jeff had moved back from Charleston, SC three years prior and was working in Manchester, NH. I had just graduated from Keene State College earlier in the year, also where Jeff attended college four years prior. I took my first job freshly out of college working for a small private school. In my second week on the job they sent me to training in Manchester, NH. On the first day of training we went around the room and introduce ourselves.

As Jeff stood up to introduce himself that was the moment his charismatic personality and smile caught my attention.

We spent the next week getting to know each other, exchanging similar stories from our time at Keene and realizing we had a deeper connection.

The day after we left training we had our first of many long phone conversations and the following weekend was the first of many weekend visits. We continued our long distance relationship between Concord and Portland for the following year before I moved to Concord.

What was the proposal like?

On December 3, 2011, we traveled to Portland with a group of friends to celebrate Jeff ’s 31st birthday. As we made our way through the Old Port from one destination to the next, Jeff pulled me away from the group and brought me down to the piers. He said he wanted a few minutes alone with me. I thought to myself, well this is romantic; little did I know what the rest of our evening would bring. We made a few stops, our first was a gated private property, not the right stop, said Jeff. Our second stop was full of people out enjoying the evening, too many people, said Jeff. The third and final stop was a dim lit, hidden pier, perfect Jeff said as he pulled out two Chinese lanterns from under his coat. Even more romantic, I thought to myself. We each lit a lantern and watched them float up and over the water. Jeff ’s voice went from casual to anxious very quickly as I wondered what was going on. Then on this beautiful and crisp winter evening Jeff got down on one knee and asked me to marry him….with tears, I excitedly said YES! 62 | vermont bride winter 2013

Why did you choose Vermont for your wedding?

Neither Jeff nor I are from Vermont but of each spent time visiting at different points in our life. After we got engaged we both knew exactly what type of wedding we were looking for. We spent the following few months looking at venues and we quickly realized that Vermont was going to be our destination. The rolling green mountains, panoramic pastoral views, cool evening breezes and relaxed environment were what drew us to Vermont.

How did you choose your venue?

Our dream was to have an outdoor wedding ceremony and our reception in a restored barn. We looked at a multitude of different barns throughout Vermont, and on a very snowy Saturday afternoon in the early winter we took many back roads before we arrived at our destination, White Rocks Inn in Wallingford. We were greeted at the Inn by two smiling faces, a roaring fireplace, warm desserts and hot coffee. If the greeting didn’t seal the deal then the next couple hours did. We looked at photos from the 20-acre Farm Estate and past weddings. We climbed snowy hills, peeked in at guest rooms and cottages and bundled up for a tour of the barn. As we walked back to our car after our meeting Jeff and I looked at each other and both said the same thing, this is the place! We had found the location for our one-of-a-kind wedding celebration.

What was your theme/color palette?

Our theme was rustic-chic. We wanted our wedding to be in a country setting with a majestic feel. We wanted our guests to feel comfortable, welcome and have fun. The Gothic Revival architecture barn is circa 1845.

Its distressed red exterior, high post-and-beam ceilings and accent lights are stunning. So, we wanted our decorations to complement the already picturesque scenery and barn.

Our round tables were covered with topaz blue table clothes accented with ivory linen table runners. Our center pieces were wood tree slices topped with large mason jars full of soft blue, pink, purple and ivory hydranw w w.v er m o ntb ri d e m a g a zi n e.co m

geas and stalks of wheat. We strung candle lit lanterns throughout the barn and café string lights over the dance floor. Together we also created signs from scratch for the ceremony and reception. All these components created the magical and romantic feel that we were looking for.

What was your favorite detail from your wedding?

Our favorite detail from our wedding was that we each wrote personalized and meaningful vows. They were both very heartfelt and funny as well. Our vows really showed our personalities and more importantly how we felt about each other and our undivided love and devotion we will share for the rest of our lives.

How did your wedding reflect your relationship as a couple?

The location, personalized vows, decorations and favors made our wedding unique. We wanted to create a distinct event for our guests like no other wedding they had ever attended. Our wedding day was an eclectic and lively celebration. Our goal was to have our guests leave saying that was Jeff & Abby and we feel we achieved that goal.

What were some of your favorite moments?

It’s so difficult to pick only a few favorite moments from our day as each moment was so special. With a storm clearing earlier in the day, blue skies and sunshine came just in time for our ceremony. We were able to have our ceremony up on the hill overlooking spectacular Green Mountain views. As Jeff and his groomsmen waited at the top of the hill for the bridesmaid and me to walk up, he hollered my name at the top of his lungs and then all our guests joined in. He was clearly ready to get the day started! Towards the end of the ceremony we had a fast-approaching storm that created Wizard-OfOz like weather and a dramatic ending to our ceremony. This storm (and tornado warnings) knocked out power for 10,000 residents in surrounding towns but luckily not us. This gave Jeff and me the opportunity to enjoy the w w w.v er m o ntb ri d e m a g a zi n e.co m

entire cocktail hour with our guests in the carriage house.

The reception began with an array of grand entrances by our grandparents, parents, bridal party and us. My parents read a meaningful Apache Blessing and our best man and maid of honor gave thoughtful and entertaining toasts. As the evening continued the skies cleared and we were able to setup an outdoor cigar bar. All of these moments created a friendly environment and set the mood for the evening full of energetic celebrations.

What song did you choose for your first dance?

I went into our first dance not knowing what the song would be. From the start of our planning, Jeff said he knew the exact song that would be perfect and wanted to keep it a secret. That song was Michael Buble’s, “Hold On,” and he was absolutely right. It was the perfect song to have our first dance to!

How did your vendors help make your wedding day perfect?

Each of our vendors worked very closely with us to make sure we felt comfortable throughout the entire planning process. They built personal relationships to get to know us and learn exactly what we wanted our wedding to look and feel like. We are grateful for their endless support.

At our visit to White Rocks Inn we were given a fall 2011 issue of the Vermont Bride magazine. I spent that evening eagerly reading the wedding stories, looking through photos and researching vendors. The Vermont Bride magazine helped us confirm our decision to have our wedding in Vermont. I continued to purchase the magazine throughout our entire planning process as each issue was full of unique ideas, picturesque locations and heart warming love stories. Thank you Vermont Bride magazine for your dedication to creating a useful resource for wedding planning!

Continued on following two pages.

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Featured Vermont Bride wedding professionals: Venue: White Rocks Inn 866-446-2077 whiterocksinn.com

Florist: Hawley’s Florist 800-841-460 hawleysflorist.com or hawleysweddingflorist.com

Rentals: Celebration Rentals, Inc. 802-247-0002 celebrationrentl@aol.com celebrateinvermont.com

WEDDING BARN

whiterocksinn.com

White Rocks Inn

other featured vendors: Invitations: MagnetStreet, Wedding Gown: Pure Bliss, Bridesmaids' Dresses: Andrea’s Bridal, Groom & Groomsmen Suits: Men’s Wearhouse, Photographer: Stephanie Egan Photography, Caterer: Hub’s Catering Company, Cake: (Cupcakes) Cuisine Lucette, Musician/DJ: Doug Geoffrey, Transportation: Vermont Backcountry Tours, Favors: (Personalized Beer Koozies) totallypromotional.com

1774 US7 South, Wallingford, VT 05773 802.446.2077 | info@whiterocksinn.com

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Shore Chic photos by J. Larose photography

design by creative muse floral design

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sources design concept, flowers & invitation: Creative muse, creativemusevt.com Models: | Hair and makeup: Sarah Crowley | photographer: j larose studios venue: Shore Acres resort & restaurant, shoreacres.com | groom's suit: tara lyn bridal, taralynbridal.com

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FOCUSED ON YOU!

Whatever Your Style Photos: Spencer Leonard

Love...

is still the same

Central Vermont’s Premier Hotel & Conference Center providing all-inclusive wedding packages & marquee reception planning since 1994.

802.223.5252

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Mon-Thu 9-5pM; Fri 9-6pM; SaT 9-4pM

capitolplaza.com

find more inspiration when you visit:

vermontbridemagazine.com vermont bride winter 2013 | 71

organza drawstring bag papermart.com

pocket stones danforth pewter danforthpewter.com

dried flowers

d o m e a fav o r

Create charming favors with Vermont-made products and simple handmade touches photos by the portrait gallery

homemade chex mix mayhue mix mayhuemix.com

kraft paper bag acmoore.com

2" Grosgrain ribbon papermart.com bakers twine acmoore.com

martha stewart chalk board labels staples.com

Shortbread Cookies Douglas Sweets douglassweets.com vt honey bear abbott family apiary vermontbridemagazine.com/abbott-family-apiary.php

3.75" window treat box make n' mold makenmold.com

tissue paper download template at marthastewartweddings.com

1.5" x 8" fabric strip

1/8" x 5" ribbon

print design on cardstock use 1.5" round punch *for added charm use a heart shaped punch

avery 2.5" kraft labels staples.com *download free printing templastes at avery.com

photos by the portrait gallery

Kristen (Leclerc) love story

ďż˝

Corey Cicio

August 18, 2012 St Monic a's Church | barre, Vermont Photos: raidenshine photography

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How and where did you meet?

How did you choose your venue?

Corey and I are both from Barre, VT and grew up five minutes apart without even knowing it. He went to Orange for middle school, while I went to Barre Town Middle and Elementary School, and we both went to Spaulding High School where we met for the first time in our senior year AP calculus class. We had a class freshman year, but we didn't really start talking until senior year; little did I know he had his eye on me from the very first class we had together, and never had the nerve to say anything.

Our feelings ignited during senior year, and our high school sweetheart story only blossomed from there.

Corey ended up attending Norwich University as he had a full Naval ROTC Scholarship, and I chose UVM. We saw each other every weekend, except for the first year when he was a rook with little privileges.

We wrote letters to each other, and I knew from these letters that we both wanted to be with each other forever, and at the end of our junior year he proposed to me.

I wanted a venue with a lot of scenery that truly represented the Vermont scenery that we all know and love. I grew up with a big back lawn with a gorgeous view of Camel's Hump, so I wanted my wedding to have the green scenery in my photographs! I also loved the inside because it has a nice warmth. The rustic look of the wood paneling provided a “homey” feel.

What was the proposal like?

What was your favorite detail from your wedding?

Corey took me away for a surprise weekend trip to Stowe. He booked a couples’ massage, and at the end we had 15 minutes to ourselves, where we were served chocolate covered strawberries and a glass of champagne on a love seat in front of a fireplace. He had one more surprise for me. I was in disbelief as he got on one knee asked me to marry him, and to be with him forever, of course I said yes!

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What was your theme/color palette?

I've always wanted a purple and white wedding, so that is what I chose! I just think the colors are so pretty, and complement each other. It’s funny, at first I wanted a dark purple, but then after the bridesmaids’ dresses came in, I had to change my color scheme a bit as they were more of a wine-grape color. This actually worked out for the best as it inspired my wine-themed wedding!

My favorite detail of the wedding was the theme! With inspiration from the bridesmaids’ dresses, we had homemade wine in mini wine bottles and cork stoppers for our favors, grape lights, and we used wine bottles as the vases for the centerpieces! The centerpieces were my second favorite detail because they had the lavender colored roses hovering over Queens Anne lace and tree fern, which is what I have envisioned for a long time! w w w.v er m o ntb ri d e m a g a zi n e.co m

How did your wedding reflect your relationship as a couple?

We both love to have fun, and we wanted to reflect this in our wedding.

The reception began with us dancing into “You should be dancing.” We wanted to set the mood for everyone to have a great time!

What were some of your favorite moments?

One of my favorite moments was posing for the “Bridesmaids” movie pose outside of the church! The photographers did a great job making it look like the movie! Another favorite moment was cake cutting. Corey and I made a deal to not make a mess on each other’s faces. He was very good at keeping the cake just around my mouth, but I broke the rules and smeared it up into his nose!

Which song did you choose for your first dance?

How did your vendors help make your wedding day perfect?

RaidenShine Photography made the day flow so smoothly. They worked with us to make the time frame, and everything was on time! Delicate Decadence Cake Boutique was also very helpful as the only thing we had to do was show up to the reception; the beautiful cake was already set up!

The Country Club of Barre served dinner right on time, and it was delicious; better than I imagined!

Vermont Bride magazine was a fabulous resource in planning for the wedding! The step-by-step planning guide was so helpful since we did not hire a wedding planner! The timeline put into perspective when everything had to be done, which was nice because wedding planning is so overwhelming! We found great ideas for vendors in the local area, and really creative ideas for decorating the reception, and cake!

Continued on following page.

We chose our first dance song to be “Lucky” by Jason Myraz because it reflected our future. Corey is in the Navy, and I will be sending him mail “across the water, across the deep blue ocean.” It really hit home for us, and thought it best reflected us. It was the perfect song to show off our new waltz moves.

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 77

Featured Vermont Bride wedding professionals: Photography: RaidenShine Photography 802-598-9186 www.raidenshine.com

Cake: Delicate Decadence Cake Boutique 802-479-7948 www.delicate-decadence.com

other featured vendors: Invitations: Vistaprint Wedding Gown: David's Bridal Venue: The Country Club of Barre Caterer: The Country Club of Barre Florist: Trombley's Greenhouse Musician/DJ: Bryan White Transportation: Sunset Limousine Favors: Handmade wine from a kit, Wedding Favors Unlimited

Jewelry: David's Bridal Nails: Phinnie Nails Tuxedo's: Men's Wearhouse Rings: Periwinkle's, Hanoush Jewelry, JCPenny Hair: Sandra Rouleau from Salon 42 Makeup: Judy Guild from Mary K cosmetics Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Grabdress.com Wedding: St Monica's Church, Barre, VT

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Fiori

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

...where you will find

exquisite beauty 18 Main Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452

Stella York by Ella Bridals w w w.v er m o ntb ri d e m a g a zi n e.co m

802.872.9663 fioribridal.com

vermont bride winter 2013 | 79

My stuff, your stuff, our registry!

By Kim Dixon & Megan Breen

C

ombining your lives—and all your stuff—can be tricky. After all, aren’t you used to saying my bed, my television and my sofa? And now it’s ours? Combing possessions does not mean that you’re giving up sole ownership of your stuff, but it does mean that it’s time to take inventory. From dishes, linens, and furniture to stereos, grills and tools, as a couple, decide what you want to keep. And then there are the harder decisions. Do you really need the pink, furry fold up chair and copious amounts of decorative throw pillows? How about that frat house neon bar sign and the life-size cardboard cut-out of Princess Leia? Some choices will be easy and others not so much.

There are also potential benefits. Your DVD and music collection may double, you might get upgraded to a bigger and better entertainment system, and your random apartment that was decorated with movie posters and hippy tapestries will be a thing of the past! Now that you have settled all of that, the next part should be fun—planning your bridal registry.

Whether you’re starting afresh or building off of what you already have, you’re going to need more stuff. It may be something small and inexpensive like that cool wine opener you’ve seen on late-night infomercials, or an expensive set of crystal champagne flouts for your first New Year’s Eve toast. Whatever you decide on, establish a bridal registry soon after your engagement because a lot of people like to buy gifts early. Either way, plan on enjoying the journey through some of the first decisions you and your fiancé will make together.

Where is the best place to register? Martha Stewart suggests picking two or three stores that you love, one being a national department store or chain, and the other a local specialty store or boutique. While keeping your store selections in mind, also consider the convenience of

Photos compliments of Kim Dixon

those purchasing. For instance, an online registry may save time and money.

And, it’s more convenient for newlyweds to have their gifts shipped direct, which reduces the hassle of packing up after the reception.

Kate Carpenter, owner of Stowe Kitchen Bath & Linens, a Stowe specialty shop and favourite amongst brides and moms, says “When picking your store, make sure the staff has experience in helping you choose items best suited for your lifestyle today and tomorrow. And ask if the store has extras like a gift-wrapping that coordinates with your wedding colors. Perhaps most importantly, you should choose a store that will stand behind what they sell.”

How many items should you register for? Register for more gifts than there are guests so there are plenty of things to choose from. Plus, if you don’t receive everything on your list, many stores have a completion program, which offers discounts on remaining choices, or allows you to keep the registry active so friends and relatives can continue to purchase gifts for occasions

"...establish a bridal registry soon after your engagement because a lot of people like to buy gifts early."

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beyond the wedding.

How do you decide what you need? “Keep in mind that this is a lifetime registry,” says Carpenter. “Think about who you are as a couple today and who you will be down the road. Will you be hosting holiday dinners? Entertaining guests?

Cooking for a family? Many couples starting out don’t think of things like gravy boats, crock pots and turkey platters. However, these are the types of items you will likely need as life evolves. Plus, it is a wonderful way to remember your loved ones as time goes on, when you use the gift they gave you.”

“Also keep in mind that not everyone is willing to shell out $300 for that expensive espresso maker you’ve had your eye on,” adds Carpenter.

“Choose a variety of price options, from affordable to indulgent. The more convenient it is for your guests to purchase, the better the chance you won’t end up with duplicates—or worse, something you don’t want or need.”

What if you don’t need anything? Maybe you have lived together for a while and are pretty much settled. If this is the case, Carpenter suggests that you “register for luxury items that you would have not considered otherwise. Perhaps better quality bed linens than what you currently have or an elaborately themed table setting. If you choose decorative pieces to enhance your home, select items that fits both your styles and you can agree on.”

Carpenter concludes, “Whatever you

choose to register, remember that it really is just stuff—and not worth fighting about. If you find yourselves getting frustrated with each other, take a break for a few days. Get away, relax and reflect on the reasons you are getting married in the first place.”

Although the bridal registry can be an emotional process, it really is just another step in overall wedding planning. If you stay organized and focused on your priorities, it should not be the cause of stress, but rather an amazing experience you will remember for a lifetime. Enjoy your new stuff! www.stowekitchen.net www.marthastewartweddings.com/230735/expert-advice-registryinsider#/104604

Ö-Ö-Ö--Ö-ÖECHO_vermontbride_2_9.pdf

2/7/11

10:42:12 AM

With our Lakefront location, breathtaking views of the Adirondacks, three f loors f illed with sparkling aquariums, and elegant indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies, receptions, meetings, and parties, you’ll f ind ECHO to be the most memorable and unique location in Vermont.

C

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Exclusive Building Rentals Private Room Rentals LEED Certified Building Green Weddings

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Picture courtesy of Patricia Tedesco, Photography by Patricia

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 81

Wedding Uplighting

By Grant Allendorf photos by kim martin photography

U

plighting has become a popular addition to wedding reception venues across the country as many brides are recognizing the dramatic effect of these special lights. Wedding uplighting features strategically positioned LEDs (light emitting diodes) that point to the walls and ceiling of the facility to create a stunning visual canvas that wraps the whole reception in a warm glow. These efficient lights need little energy and can run on batteries, so they make older methods of uplighting that involved hot lights and cumbersome cords obsolete. When you examine the value of adding uplighting to your reception, think first about the quality of the lighting system. Many are now offering relatively inexpensive $400 uplighting packages, but these cheaper setups lack the power and control to create the full effect of uplighting. Professional uplighting runs between $1,200 - $2,000 and provides wireless controls that mix, fade, and even sync the lights to the reception music so the entire reception pulses to the rhythm and beat of the party. Typically 10-12 uplights are needed to properly cover a “normal” sized facility for 150 guests. Uplights are the extra touch that can set the tone and mood for your special day!

Ö-Ö-Ö-Ö-ÖVermont Bride is proud to recommend the following featured wedding professionals for all your wedding lighting needs:

Celebration Rentals, Inc. 802-247-0002 www.celebrateinvermont.com

Vermont Wedding Uplighting Company 802-899-2823 | supersounds.entertainment@gmail.com www.supersounds.com

-Ö-Ö-Ö-Ö--ÖGreen Mountain Sound and Entertainment 802-598-7001 www.greenmtnsound.com

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Weddings, Tents & Events 802-899-2823 www.weddingstentsevents.com

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the informed traveler

Ecuador Adventure, Relaxation & Romance on the Equator

W

hether you are dreaming of warm weather, beaches, hot springs, massages, relaxation and spas for your honeymoon or are thinking more of adventure—zip-lining, canoeing or kayaking, horseback riding, surfing, trekking, mountain biking, nature, whitewater, glaciers and exotic—Ecuador offers the best of both!

About the size of Colorado, Ecuador is situated along the northwest coast of South America, bordering both Peru and Columbia. Ecuador offers an unequalled variety of adventures in each of its four distinct regions: the Amazon jungle, the Wild Pacific coast, the tropical cloud forest, and the majestic Andes Mountains.

The Andes Mountains divide Mainland Ecuador into three main regions: the Sierra or highlands, the Amazon and the Pacific coast. Stretching the length of the country, the Avenue of the Volcanoes is 84 | vermont bride winter 2013

By Carrie McDougall photos courtesy of cultural crossroads

formed by 20,000 foot mountains which crash dramatically into the mega-diverse Ecuadorian Amazon to the east and to the Pacific coast with its tropical beaches and sleepy fishing villages to the west. Six hundred miles off the coast of Ecuador the Galapagos archipelago is made up of over a hundred volcanic islands, islets and rock formations. The islands are covered with an amazing variety of endemic flora and fauna who, having no natural predators, don’t fear humans! There are myriad options for island-hopping or cruising the islands from 3 to 15 days. You can swim, snorkel, dive, hike or kayak with turtles, penguins, iguanas, sea lions, blue-footed boobies or albatross.

In addition to its bio-diversity, Ecuador boasts incredible cultural and ethnic diversity, having over 70 different indigenous groups with their own distinct languages and culture. The population is mostly mestizo or mixed-blood, followed by Amerindians and w w w.v er m o ntb ri d e m a g a zi n e.co m

"You can swim, snorkel, dive, hike or kayak with turtles, penguins, iguanas, sea lions, blue-footed boobies or albatross."

"Ecuador is known as the land of eternal spring..."

Afro-Ecuadorians. Interacting with indigenous tribes, especially in the Amazon, is a unique and often life-changing experience. The indigenous are warm and welcoming and, in spite of pressure for development, struggle to preserve their way of life and jungle home through tourism.

Most international flights arrive in Quito, making it the perfect base for exploring this eclectic little country. Quito is known for its Old Town with colonial architecture, baroque churches and narrow cobblestone streets, as well as its hip, modern center. From here, take your choice from a dizzying variety of adventures: the indigenous market of Otavalo, with wonderful handicraft skills handed down for generations; the Volcano Cayambe, the highest and only place on the equator with snow, or Cotopaxi, the world’s highest active volcano that dominates the Quito skyline. On a trip through this National Park, you can see Andean condors, llamas and

even pumas in the Paramo. The famed terraced town of Baños has lovely waterfalls and minerals.

Just to the west of Quito, you’ll find the Cloud Forest of Mindo filled with countless bird and hummingbird species and hundreds of rare orchids. The charming Andean city of Cuenca, to the south of Ecuador, is known as its “cultural” capital from whence hails the famed Panama Hat. Nearby are the Incan ruins of Ingapirca and where many believe to be the original fountain of youth, Vilcabamba; people here live well over 100 years. There are cozy inns, rustic ranches and romantic haciendas and volcanic lakes throughout the Northern Andes. If that’s not romantic enough, roses are one of Ecuador’s main exports, they come in a rainbow of colors and are sold for 50 cents per dozen! There are adventures priced to fit all budgets and Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar, so there’s no need to worry about currency exchange.

 When to travel to Ecuador Ecuador is known as the land of eternal spring, mostly warm during the day and cooler in the evenings. With no seasons to speak of Ecuador offers excellent weather year round. Weather in the Andes can vary as much as 40 degrees in a day, so it’s best to dress in layers. Think spring in the morning, summer at noon, autumn at sunset and winter in the evenings. The Galapagos enjoy great weather all year round with warm, calm seas from December through February and rougher, cooler seas from May to August. The Amazon and Pacific coast are nearly always humid and warm.

Carrie McDougall is the owner of Cultural Crossroads, offering customized tours for individuals, family and friends as well as educational and nonprofit organizations. Contact Carrie at (toll-free) 877-479-7040, Carrie@CulturalCrossroads.com, or visit www.CulturalCrossroads.com.

-Ö-Ö-Ö-Ö--Ö Do you want to be featured in Vermont Bride Magazine? we want your engagement announcements & love stories visit: vermontbridemagazine.com/uploadbride.php 86 | vermont bride winter 2013

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The Beauty of Simplicity in the Vermont Countryside

We specialize in custom-designed weddings for up to 150 guests in an elegant, intimate barn setting.

We serve French-inspired cuisine, made with fresh local products.

Rehearsal dinners and off-site catering are also available.

New Haven, Vermont ď‚› tourterellevt.com ď‚› 802.453.6309

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It’s All About Choices THE FIT SPOT

By Sara Phillips

B

eing a bride is all about choices: dress, venue, flowers, food, music and husband! Staying fit is also all about choices. All brides want to look their best on the big day, and making good choices is the first step toward your pre-wedding day fitness goals. Achieving and maintaining your ideal weight is a lifelong endeavor. Once incorporated into your daily life, it will be something both you and your partner will enjoy!

Let’s start our day of healthy choices at breakfast. We all know how important eating breakfast is, but with hectic lives and so many choices how do we know what is a healthy breakfast and what is a trap? Beware the worst enemy of all: sugar. Of course we all know that a giant donut is a sugar-filled no-no, but what about our friendly breakfast cereal? Cereal can be an excellent start to the day, but only if it is low in sugar—less than 8 grams of sugar per serving is our goal. Mind the serving size; add some fresh fruit and skim milk and you’ve made your first healthy choice of the day. Cereal not your thing? An egg white omelet with broccoli or spinach is a great choice. Smoothies can also fill you up—make these at home. Smoothies from fast food chains can be full of hidden sugar!

I don’t know about you, but I get up and eat breakfast early. There’s no way I can wait until noon to eat again. But snack time can present us with some seriously tough choices.

Believe it or not the best way to satisfy all cravings is to eat a complete mini meal comprised of protein and carbohydrates. Some of my favorites include sliced apple and peanut butter, carrots and humus, or even a small portion of leftovers from the previous night’s dinner! An 88 | vermont bride winter 2013

important note when buying peanut butter: READ THE LABEL! Most commercial peanut butters contain added sugar. Look for brands made of just peanuts. Your taste buds will adjust and your pants will fit better!

What’s for lunch? The best choice you can make for lunch is to bring it from home. Eating out will often result in bad choices because we are too hungry and too hurried to make good decisions. It takes less time than you may think to prep your lunch the night before. A goodsized reusable container filled with dark, leafy greens and other salad vegetables makes a great

start. A small portion of left over protein and bit of healthy fat (olive oil or avocado) can make a perfect, filling lunch. Tasty additions like beans and hard-boiled eggs turn unsatisfying rabbit food into a filling and nutritious midday meal.

It’s the middle of the afternoon and we’re starting to fade. Our good choice-making skills are really challenged now. We need a good snack that will give us energy—both physically

and mentally—to get through the afternoon.

Before reaching for that bag of peanut M&Ms, stop. You will regret all that sugar! Try a ½ cup of fat free cottage cheese with fruit if you’re craving sweets or the same cottage cheese with veggies and 1 TBS of sunflower seeds if salt is your thing. Try it! You’ll love it, and it will get you through the afternoon with ease. The “I’m so hungry because I haven’t eaten since noon and it’s 7:00 p.m. that I’m going to eat everything in the refrigerator” syndrome is possibly the biggest reason we all struggle to achieve our ideal weight. Having a balanced mid-afternoon snack will help you avoid this common dinnertime pitfall.

Now that we have successfully made good choices throughout our day, what should we have for dinner? Dinner should be centered around vegetables. More leafy greens with both raw and cooked veggies should cover half your plate. If you’re thinking “ugh, more lettuce,” think again! Spinach and kale are delicious and ultra nutritious, either raw or cooked.

I put spinach or kale in almost everything, pasta dishes, soup, turkey meatloaf, the list goes on. Strive to increase the portion of vegetables on your plate, while decreasing the portions of protein and carbohydrates.

Let’s take a closer look at carbohydrates.

Much maligned and often misunderstood, once we understand which carbs to choose, we will find our food options much broader than we ever imaged. There are two main reasons why carbs present such a challenge. The first is our natural tendency to overeat them! Just for fun measure out a serving of pasta or rice. Really?

That’s not enough to feed a bird. If you employ the technique mentioned above of adding more w w w.v er m o ntb ri d e m a g a zi n e.co m

"The “I’m so hungry because I haven’t eaten since noon and it’s 7:00 p.m. that I’m going to eat everything in the refrigerator” syndrome is possibly the biggest reason we all struggle to achieve our ideal weight."

vegetables, however, you’ll find that the serving size is truly enough! The second carb pitfall is type of carb. There are a lot of great books and articles written on the proper type of carbs. I recommend doing some research on your own. In a nutshell what you’ll find is that complex carbs are beneficial, simple carbs are detrimental. Simple carbs are desserts, white bread, white pasta, and other things made with refined flours. Complex carbs are vegetables, sweet potatoes, whole grains, and brown rice. Choose these and you’ll reap the benefits.

We’ve talked a lot about food choices.

What about beverages? Drink water. Lots of it. Some resources say 8 glasses a day. Other resources say ½ your body weight in pounds is how many ounces of water you should drink a day. Either way, drink water. Two big glasses of

water first thing the morning seem to set me on the correct path for the day. Two big glasses every time you eat will help keep you hydrated and your metabolism revved. Kick the soda/juice/ bottled iced tea habit. These choices are contain high levels of calories and sugar. Diet soda you say? You are sabotaging your efforts toward a healthy lifestyle and ideal weight. Four years ago I gave up soda and lost 12 lbs in 8 weeks. Seriously.

Radical diet plans are difficult enough to stick with on a normal day. Throw in the added pressure of planning a wedding, and it becomes a recipe for failure. Start by making simple, healthy choices every day, and you’ll not only look beautiful in that perfect wedding dress, but you’ll be on the path to wellness for the rest of your happily married life.

-Ö-Ö-Ö-Ö-Ö-Would you like your business featured in

Vermont Bride Magazine?

visit: vermontbridemagazine.com/media-kit.php contact us today for ad rates and special offers

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 89

Vermont Bride

Marketplace The Bakery at Junior’s Specializing in Wedding & Special Occasion Cakes We also provide Full Service Offsite Catering

Cuisine that is as Beautiful as it is Delicious!

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Vermont Bride

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We’ll keep your party rockin’!

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Vermont Bride

Marketplace

creatively capturing your matrimonial moments!

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The Flower Shop

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Vermont Bride

Marketplace The Crimson Poppy Flower Shoppe & Boutique

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 93

vendor index Vendor Services

Website

Page

sewbasket.com

33

sewbasket.com

33

fioribridal.com

79

BakeAria LLC

bakearia.com

94

Bakery at Junior's

juniorsvt.com

90

Ben & Jerry's

benjerry.com

14

Caketopia Cakes

caketopiacakes.com

37

Delicate Decadence Cake Boutique

delicate-decadence.com

95

Snaffle Sweets

snafflesweets.com

15

lydiabatten.com

91

The Abbey

abbeygroup.net

89

Ben & Jerry's

benjerry.com

14

Junior's Long Island Catering

juniorsvt.com

90

State Street Catering

statestreetcatering.com

92

Tasty Persuasions Catering

tastypersuasions.com

13

Waterfront Catering Group

vermontspecialoccasions.com

33

Gerry Lawrence

vermontbridemagazine.com

71

Green Mountain Sound and Entertainment

greenmtnsound.com

91

Peak Entertainment

peakdj.com

79

Supersounds DJ Co.

supersounds.com

33

Wedding DJ VT

weddingdjvt.com

93

BakeAria LLC

BakeAria.com

94

Delicate Decadence Cake Boutique

delicate-decadence.com

95

Shelburne Country Store

shelburnecountrystore.com

92

Snaffle Sweets

snafflesweets.com

15

VT Mountain Syrup

see our ad

92

Creative Muse Floral Design

creativemusevt.com

17

Crimson Poppy Flower Shoppe

vermontbridemagazine.com

93

Esden Florist

vermontbridemagazine.com

57

Hawley's Florist

hawleysweddingflorist.com

17

Howards The Flower Shop

howardstheflowershop.com

92

Peck's Flower Shop

pecksflowershop.com

90

Sarah's Weddings by Betty's Flower Basket

bettysflowerbasket.com

87

ALTERATIONS The Sewing Basket BRIDAL GOWN PRESERVATION The Sewing Basket BRIDAL SHOPS Fiori Bridal Boutique CAKES & PASTRIES

CALLIGRAPHY Lydia Batten CALLIGRAPHY CATERING

DJs

FAVORS

FLORISTS

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vendor index Vendor Services

Website

Page

Danforth Pewter

danforthpewter.com

91

Fabulous Fascinators By Betty's Flower Basket

bettysflowerbasket.com

87

The Kitchen Store At J.K. Adams

thekitchenstoreonline.com

79

Shelburne Country Store

shelburnecountrystore.com

92

bettysflowerbasket.com

87

Essex Resort & Spa

vtculinaryresort.com

5

Kerry Armstrong Formal Hair Design

kerryarmstrongvt.com

90

Moon Studio Day Spa

moonstudiodayspa.com

11

Salon at Stoweflake

spaatstoweflake.com

3

GIFTS & BRIDAL REGISTRIES

HAIR ACCESSORIES Fabulous Fascinators By Betty's Flower Basket HAIR STYLISTS

Love

lAyereD with

Custom weDDing CAkes & FAvors

By PAstry CheF miChelle lunDe

100))4+4)0000!

Delivery Anywhere in vermont

HONEYMOONS Cultural Crossroads

culturalcrossroads.com

93

Lydia Batten CALLIGRAPHY

lydiabatten.com

91

Laura Macchia - Paper Goods & Custom Design

lauramacchia.com

37

Letter10 Creative

letter10creative.com

92

That's Inviting

thats-inviting.com

57

Truly Noted

trulynoted.net

27

Eaton's Fine Jewelry

eatonsjewelry.com

71

PierVana Jewels

moonstudiodayspa.com/boutique

95

Precious Things Jewelers

preciousthingsjewelers.com

94

Shelburne Country Store

shelburnecountrystore.com

92

vermontbridemagazine.com

83

signaturepropertiesvt.com

92

Arlington Inn

arlingtoninn.com

19

Brandon Inn

historicbrandoninn.com

17

Capitol Plaza Hotel & Conference Center

capitolplaza.com

71

Edson Hill Manor

edsonhillmanor.com

100

Essex Resort & Spa

vtculinaryresort.com

4

Equinox Resort & Spa

equinoxresort.com

13

Golden Eagle Resort

goldeneagleresort.com

91

Hampton Inn

burlingtonvt.hamptoninn.com

2

Middlebury Inn

middleburyinn.com

14

Mountain Top Inn & Resort

mountaintopinn.com

3

Phineas Swann B&B

phineasswann.com

91

Ponds at Bolton Valley Resort

thepondsvt.com

4

delicate-decadence.com finecakes@delicate-decadence.com 802. 479. 7948

INVITATIONS

JEWELRY

15 CottAge st, BArre, vt

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vendor index contd.

Vendor Services

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Website

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Sheraton Burlington Hotel & Conference Ctr

sheraton.com/burlington

99

Stacie Maddox Photography

staciemaddoxphotography.com

57

Stowe Mountain Resort

stowe.com

Stables & Inn at Pigeon Hill Farm

pigeonhillfarm.com

27

Kim Martin Photography

kimmartinphoto.com

n/a

83

Polis Photography

polisfoto.com

Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa

13

stoweflake.com

5

Portrait Gallery

portraitgallery-vt.com

93

Sunset Ballroom

vermontspecialoccasions.com

33

RaidenShine Photography

raidenshine.com

83

Tourterelle Inn - Dining & Events

tourterellevt.com

87

Saint Phalle Photography

spwed.com

91

White Rocks Inn

whiterocksinn.com

65

Jeff Schneiderman Photography

jeffschneiderman.com

59

Wilburton Inn

wilburton.com

11

The Abbey

theabbeyrestaurant.net

89

An Affair By The Lake

anaffairbythelake.com

37

Arlington Inn

arlingtoninn.com

19

Brandon Inn

brandoninn.com

17

Burlington Country Club

burlingtoncountryclub.org

6

Capitol Plaza Hotel & Conference Ctr

capitolplaza.com

71

LODGING contd.

Vendor Services PHOTOGRAPHERS contd.

RECEPTION SITES MAKEUP ARTISTS Essex Resort & Spa

vtculinaryresort.com

5

Moon Studio Day Spa

moonstudiodayspa.com

11

Salon at Stoweflake

spaatstoweflake.com

3

MUSICIANS Lisa Carlson - ensembles with flute

lisaflute.com

90

Catamount Country Club

catamountcountryclub.com

35

Classic Consort

classicconsort.com

57

ECHO at Leahy Center

echovermont.org

81

Dayve Huckett - guitar

dayvehuckett.net

92

Edson Hill Manor

edsonhillmanor.com

100

Love That Duo

lovethatduo.com

92

Essex Resort & Spa

vtculinaryresort.com

4

Vermont Wedding Violinist

vtweddingviolinist.com

90

Equinox Resort & Spa

equinoxresort.com

13

Golden Eagle Resort

goldeneagleresort.com

91

Hampton Inn

burlingtonvt.hamptoninn.com

2

Junior's Italian

juniorsvt.com

90

Middlebury Inn

middleburyinn.com

14

Mountain Top Inn & Resort

mountaintopinn.com

3

Old Lantern

oldlantern.com

59

Phineas Swann B&B

phineasswann.com

91

Ponds at Bolton Valley Resort

thepondsvt.com

4

Sheraton Burlington Hotel & Conference Ctr

sheraton.com/burlington

99

Spirit of Ethan Allen III

soea.com

9

Stables & Inn at Pigeon Hill Farm

pigeonhillfarm.com

83

Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa

stoweflake.com

5

PHOTOBOOTHS Green Mountain Photobooth

greenmtphotobooth.com

15

PHOTOGRAPHERS Ampersand Wedding Photography

andweddingphoto.com

92

Larry Asam Photography

lasamphoto.com

11

Ayer Photography of Vermont

ayerphoto.com

87

Green Mountain Photobooth

greenmtphotobooth.com

15

Ben Hudson Photography

benhudsonphotography.com

11

Letter10 Creative

letter10Creative.com

92

ten great reasons to visit

vermontbridemagazine.com

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vendor index contd.

Vendor Services

Website

Page

Stowe Mountain Resort

stowe.com

27

Sunset Ballroom - Waterfront Catering Group

vermontspecialoccasions.com

33

Tourterelle Inn - Dining & Events

tourterellevt.com

87

White Rocks Inn

whiterocksinn.com

65

SPA SERVICES

Wilburton Inn

wilburton.com

11

RECEPTION SITES contd.

Vendor Services

Website

Page

White Rocks Inn

whiterocksinn.com

65

Wilburton Inn

wilburton.com

11

Essex Resort & Spa

vtculinaryresort.com

4

Equinox Resort & Spa

equinoxresort.com

13

Moon Studio Day Spa

moonstudiodayspa.com

11

REHEARSAL DINNERS contd

REHEARSAL DINNERS The Abbey

theabbeyrestaurant.net

89

Salon at Stoweflake

spaatstoweflake.com

3

Arlington Inn

arlingtoninn.com

19

Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa

stoweflake.com

5

Brandon Inn

brandoninn.com

17

Burlington Country Club

burlingtoncountryclub.org

6

TENTS & RENTALS

Capitol Plaza Hotel & Conference Ctr

capitolplaza.com

71

Celebration Rentals

celebrateinvermont.com

19

Catamount Country Club

catamountcountryclub.com

35

Classy Potty's - Portable Restroom Services

classypotty.vpweb.com

19

ECHO at Leahy Center

echovermont.org

81

Weddings, Tents & Events

weddingstentsevents.com

9

Edson Hill Manor

edsonhillmanor.com

100

Essex Resort & Spa

vtculinaryresort.com

4

TRANSPORTATION

Equinox Resort & Spa

equinoxresort.com

13

Burlington Limousine & Car Service

burlingtonvtlimo.com

87

Golden Eagle Resort

goldeneagleresort.com

91

Middlebury Transit

middleburytransit.com

87

Vermont Chauffeured Transportation

limovermont.com

87

Hampton Inn

burlingtonvt.hamptoninn.com

2

Junior's Italian

juniorsvt.com

90

Middlebury Inn

middleburyinn.com

14

VIDEOGRAPHERS

Mountain Top Inn & Resort

mountaintopinn.com

3

Backroads & Blacktops Video

backroadsandblacktopsvideo.com

90

Video Memory

supersounds.com/videomemory.htm

93

backroadsandblacktopsvideo.com

90

Old Lantern

oldlantern.com

59

Phineas Swann B&B

phineasswann.com

91

Ponds at Bolton Valley Resort

thepondsvt.com

4

WEDDING STORY SERVICES

Sheraton Burlington Hotel & Conference Ctr

sheraton.com/burlington

99

Backroads & Blacktops Video

Spirit of Ethan Allen III

soea.com

9

Stables & Inn at Pigeon Hill Farm

pigeonhillfarm.com

83

WEDDING UPLIGHTING

Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa

stoweflake.com

5

Celebration Rentals

celebrateinvermont.com

19

27

Green Mountain Sound and Entertainment

greenmtnsound.com

91

supersounds.com

33

weddingstentsevents.com

Stowe Mountain Resort

stowe.com

Sunset Ballroom - Waterfront Catering Group

vermontspecialoccasions.com

33

Vermont Wedding Uplighting Company

Tourterelle Inn - Dining & Events

tourterellevt.com

87

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vermont bride winter 2013 | 97

the fifty nifty project How a photography couple from Minneapolis combined their love of photographing weddings and a desire to give back.

T

he issue of human trafficking probably doesn't come up very often in your typical wedding planning conversation, but the two were a perfect pairing for Minneapolis-based husband and wife photography duo Jonny and Michelle Hoffner. The couple had always felt a desire to be involved with social justice—Michelle was an International Relations major and Jonny's brother is very involved with International Justice. Something clicked when Michelle ran into an old friend who had recently started a organization called She Dances. A Birmingham-based non-profit, She Dances provides refuge and holistic restoration for trafficked and exploited girls.

Jonny and Michelle Hoffner of Paper Antler

From a wedding in Putney, Vermont photographed by Paper Antler.

Since starting their photography business, Paper Antler, in 2008, Michelle and Jonny have donated 10 percent of their profits to She Dances, but last year the couple decided to step it up. She Dances had recently opened a safe-house for trafficked girls in Honduras, and after learning that the organization's annual budget was $48,000, Jonny came up with the idea for the Fifty Nifty. A cross-country campaign to photograph 50 weddings, one in each of the 50 states.

She Dances will receive $1,000 from each wedding, totaling $50,000 at the end of the year.

They came up with a tentative route and schedule, then put it out on Facebook, Twitter and their website. Soon wedding blogs were featuring posts about the project and their schedule started to fill up.

The original route had to be rethought and they did not end up with weddings in every state, but the basic idea of the Fifty Nifty took off and ignited a conversation from coast to coast and around the world. Some participating brides and grooms asked their guests for additional donations to She Dances in lieu of gifts. Others incorporated the cause in their programs. Everywhere Jonny and Michelle went they met and talked with people touched by their mission and wanting to give more.

Because of the overwhelming response to the Fifty Nifty, Jonny and Michelle have decided to expand upon the project. Over the next few months they hope to launch Weddings for Freedom and work with other wedding vendors to create similar projects within their local communities.

Follow Paper Antler on their blog: paperantler.com/blog Facebook: facebook.com/paperantler Twitter: @fiftynifty

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