December 2013 + January 2014 - The Ultimate Dress Issue

the

wedding + CONNEC

ION

three real weddings brides + amazing dresses

the

ultimate dress issue pages + pages romantic vintage dresses (bridesmaids too)

+ wedding day

survival guide

from Parie Villyard wedding day expert

DECEMBER 2013 + JANUARY 2014

bbq + bowties get your groom involved

www.m a g g i e s otte ro.com

table of eontents

contributors

7

from the editor

11

the report

12

your dress with a twist

14

something old, new, borrowed + blue.

17

modern + classic

25

real weddings

39

bailley + robert

41

elegant bridesmaids

47

wedding day survival guide

51

courtney + jonathan

53

a touch of vintage creates timeless elegance

60

colby + heather

74

dresses start on ... 25

41

photo by captivated images

photo by photos by betsy

for the groom the southern gentleman

79

she said yes to the dress

84

blissful affair

86

ask the expert - makeup

88

DIY - bridal bouquets

90

little extras

92

53

74

photo by chriselda photography

photo by captivated images

romantic vintage dresses

for the groom

60

79

photo by reese moore weddings

photo by eternal bliss photography

featured non-profit

Our chosen non-profit for this issue is the Lubbock Area of Susan G. Komen. Breast cancer is a leading cause of death for women. Almost anyone you ask has been affect by breast cancer in some form. We chose this wonderful charity because of the large impact Breast Cancer has had on our staff, community and world.

Today, Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest and most progressive grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists, the only grassroots organization fighting to cure breast cancer. Komen for the Cure is 118 Affiliates strong, located in cities and communities across the U.S., Germany, Italy and Puerto Rico. With over $2.2 billion invested to date, Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to curing breast cancer at every stage, from the causes, to the cures, to the pain and anxiety of every moment in between. Komen has committed to invest another $1 billion in the next five years.

On the local level, Komen for the Cure - Lubbock Area Affiliate was established in 1995 to spread the life-saving message of early detection and to support breast cancer screening and diagnostic programs in West Texas. Komen Lubbock serves a 16 country area including Lubbock and 15 surrounding counties. The Komen Lubbock Area Affiliate has raised over $5.8 million dollars and has dedicated more than $3.8 million dollars to the local community to fund in local breast health education, screening and treatment programs. Additionally, Komen Lubbock has invested over $1 million in breast cancer research.

For more information on the Lubbock Area of Susan G. Komen or how to get involved and donate visit their website at http://www. komenlubbock.org.The Lubbock Area of Susan G. Komen just participated in a fashion show to help raise money for the cure. For more information about the fashion show check out page 86.

A special place for your special day.

W

hether it’s an intimate gathering or a large wedding, the Civic Center has the room and staff to make your day extra special. Call for room rates and availabilities.

1501 Mac Davis Lane Lubbock, TX 79401 80 6-775-2242 lubbockciviccenter.com

contributors

Baker Building Venue bakerbuilding.com

Hotel Settles Venue hotelsettles.com

BHLDN Bridal Accessories bhldn.com

Kaylie Rush Photography Photographer facebook.com/kayrushphotography

Captivated Images Photographer captivatedimages.com

Makeup by Brooke Bowlin Makeup + Hair Stylist facebook.com/hairbybrookebowlin

Chriselda Photography Photographer chriseldaphotography.com

Parie Designs Florist + Coordinator secretgardenfineflowers.com

Eternal Bliss Photography Photographer eternalblissphotography.com

Photo by Betsy Photographer photobybetsy.com

Jacie Leigh Photography Photographer jacieleighphotography.com

Unveiled Bridal Designs Bridal Accessories unveiledbridaldesigns.com

To have and to wear from this day forward...

sp ecial

thanks to...

WANT TO SEE YOUR WORK ON OUR PAGES?

We love to feature weddings with brides + grooms of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds!

Weddings must have taken place in West Texas between 2012 & 2014. We love looking at fun + unique weddings.

We look for high quality, minimally processed images featuring lots of stunning details. Please be prepared to submit 40-60 edited images for consideration.

We are also always looking for new and exciting stylists, designers and vendors to feature!

Interested?

Visit us at theweddingconnectionmagazine.com or email hello@theweddingconnectionmagazine.com

The Bridal Bracelet Diamontrigue 2811 S. Loop 289 Suite 3 806-745-7522 www.diamontrigue.net

Two Bright Lights is our preferred method of submission.

the

wedding + CONNEC

ION

1 4 1 2 T E X A S AV E N U E LUBBOCK, TEXAS 79401 806.744.0234 E D I TO R I N C H I E F Aly Fiebrantz

E D I TO R I A L S TA F F McKinley Botkin Katherine Parker Mishka Penn S A L E S S TA F F Megan Bradford Shyenne DeMoss Ashley Edwards

photos by Bryan Jonathan Weddings

A D M I N I S T R AT I V E S TA F F Echoe Ceballos Cassidy Edison The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights in regards to copyright of their work. No part of this work covered by the copyright may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means without the written consent of the publisher. All copyrighted work was reproduced with the permission of the owner.

A M E M B E R O F T H E J O R DA N C O L L E C T I V E Magazines printed in China.

Reasonable care is taken to ensure that The Wedding Connection Magazine articles and other information on the web site are up-todate and as accurate as possible, at the time of publication, but no responsibility can be taken by The Wedding Connection Magazine for any errors or omissions contained herein. Furthermore, The Wedding Connection Magazine takes no responsibility for any losses, damages or distress resulting from adherence to any information made available through this publication. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Wedding Connection Magazine.

historic

C OV E R P H OTO B Y C A P T I VAT E D I M AG E S

-8-

Baker Building

bakerbuilding.com 806.741.1539

private parties ~ weddings receptions ~ proms

1211 13th Street, Lubbock, TX 79401

The Baker Building is featured on pages 30-33.

Fittings by Appointment Only

F RO M THE e d i t or hello,

Every little girl wants to be a princess. When I was little I would dress up in long, tulle filled pink and purple dresses with my little sister. We would pretend we were princesses, queens, fairies and other magical creations inspired by our gowns. It was all about the dress during those escapades.

Flash forward to a wedding day and again it’s all about the dress. A bride wants to feel special on her Day, and that comes down to the dress. We make a big deal out of first looks with our grooms, and dad's break into tears when they see us in a gorgeous gown fit for a day we announce our love to another.

photo by Eternal Bliss Photography

G E T I N VO LV E D !

I am super excited to be editing Our Ultimate Dress Edition. We had such an amazing time with the Styled shoots. All the models said they felt like princesses, with their hair, makeup and gorgeous wedding dresses. From tips about new styles (Modern Vintage Shoot) to inspiration for your Wedding Day Look (Timeless Elegance Shout) this issue is designed to make you feel like a princess on your special day.

Only thing I love more than working on the magazine is talking about the magazine. So drop us a line, e-mail, phone call!

1412 Texas Avenue Lubbock, Texas 79401

�aly

xoxo and enjoy!

or hello@theweddingconnectionmagazine.com We also accept blog comments, Facebook posts, tweets and cookies. theweddingconnectionmagazine.com 806.744.0234

- 11 -

Photo by Photo by Betsy

N OT J UST F OR YOU R GR AN DPA

Put your beau in a gentleman's classic to compliment your dress.We are just obsessed with suspenders. They are a way to add a southern charm to your wedding. Not only that but you get way cool photos like this on your wedding day.

TA ST E S B E T T E R WI T H AG E

We just couldn't resist including these adorable barrels.

What a great groomsmen present!! Check out our favorites from Deep South Barrels (deepsouthbarrels.com).

For more details to be Bell of the Ball with your Southern Beau go to page 79

Facebook.com/DesignsByImagineIf Bonnie Swanson • 432.889.0767 • msbonnie5@gmail.com

Bringing Life To Your Dreams... and Making The Ordinary, Extraordinary!

Distinctively designed Weddings & Events that reflect Your Style Linens, Furniture & Custom Decor Personal attention from the first day through Your Big Day!

THE r e p or t december + january trends

S P ELL IT O UT

Personalized hangers are huge right now. Add your new name to your bridal gown’s hanger. Classybride.com offers a gorgeous wood option of this accessory, which makes for a picture perfect moment.

S AVE THE DAY (AN D YOU R DRE SS)

Your wedding day is stressful already, an emergecy kit like this one (provided by classybride.com)contains all save the day must-haves.

Avoid a wardrobe malfunction on your special day by making your own.

Remember the needle, thread and safety pin by checking out page 51!

- 13 -

ON T HI S DAY

Compendium offers this super sweet Bridesmaid book for your best friends on your day. It has inspiring quotations, and looks extra special so they remember this day and what they mean to you!

STOP DRE AM I NG , START SHOPPI N G !

Here's a few spiffy sites that have alternatives for your dress.

Your wedding dress can be pre-owned, redesigned or borrowed!

There are so many options for choosing a wedding dress that don’t include your entire wedding budget or the dress everyone else has!

SmartBrideBoutique.com is a premium wedding classifieds site helping past and present brides create the wedding of their dreams on a realistic budget.

It’s all about being smart, and stretching your budget where ever possible.

Buying preowned, or selling after your wedding, means you can have your cake and eat it too! Since 2008, SmartBride has connected brides to be, and recent brides to buy, sell and save on everything wedding including wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, decorations, shoes, accessories and more. After all, they are only worn once! SmartBride is available in over 80 cities across North America. Brides-to-be save 50% on new and used wedding items while recent brides recoup 50% of their costs.

- 14 -

YO U R DRESS WITH A twist

Self-proclaimed “thrift store junkie” and West Texas native fashion designer, Katherine Micheal Northcott (known to her friends as Micheal) found her most recent calling in rescuing antique gowns from the rubbled racks of local resale shops and resuscitating their purpose in today’s high-fashion world.

Nothing about Northcott’s approach is mass-produced and none of the dresses in the Unantiquated Collection could ever be recreated.

Katherine Micheal’s creations aren’t intended to generate mass appeal – just undying devotion from a few daring, eclectic individuals who make the gowns their own.

PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com has been connecting buyers and sellers of wedding gowns since 2004. For brides-to-be, it’s a great way to get the dress of their dreams, at a price that (actually!) fits within their budget. The site has over 18,000 amazing wedding dresses from over 300 different designers. And a Real Weddings gallery that showcases gorgeous weddings by designer, so you can find inspiration- and the perfect dress for sale – at the same time. PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com has helped over 20,000 women sell their wedding dress, share it with another happy bride, and make some money back in the process.

It’s the modern, smart way to buy and sell a wedding dress.

- 15 -

Boyd’s Events

Illuminating Your Dreams boydsevents.com 432-262-1951 Available for Travel

o ld new

SOMETHING

SOMETHING

b ďż˝ orrowedďż˝ SOMETHING

SOMETHING

blue

Something old represents continuity; something new offers optimism for the future; something borrowed symbolizes borrowed happiness; something blue stands for purity, love, and fidelity; and a sixpence in your shoe is a wish for good fortune and prosperity, although this remains largely a British custom.

OLD

SOMETHING REPRESENTS CONTINUITY, INCORPORATING OLD TRADITIONS INTO A NEW LIFE.

R E M E M B E R E D LOV E D O N E S

FAV S H O E S

Attaching photo charms to your bouquet of passed loved ones incorporates something old in your wedding day.

Ditch the stillettos, wear your favorite pair of sandals or shoes. They aren’t just comfy but they’re your something old for your wedding day.

Photo by Lindsey Nickel Photography

Photo by Jaye KogutPhotography

FA M I LY J E W E L R Y

Your wedding day is very special, as well as your family history. Wear specific family jewelry that represents loved ones or special memories.

Photo by Shawna Hinkel Photography

�something�

NEW

RE PRE SE NTS OPTI M ISM AN D HOPE FOR YOUR FUTU RE AS HUSBAND AND W I FE.

S PA R K L E S !

H AT E F LO W E R S ?

For brides who feel like they aren’t wearing enough bling on their Wedding Day, add a tad of shineon your shoes. Our favs are these Blinged Out Milk & Honey shoe collection.

Clutches are a retro look for bridesmaids on your special day. Our favorites are from Moyna They offers gorgeous clutches for Brides & Bridesmaids in pearl, ivory, sequined and gold sparkled! Perfect matches for your perfect day.

B O W S A R E B AC K !

We are just in love with these shoes.

Bows aren't just for dresses. Don’t see what you want? Milk & Honey lets you customize your own shoes for your special day. Check out their website http://www.milkandhoneyshoes.com

SMELL SPECIAL!

For extra pizzazz on your wedding day, design your own scent for you and your bridesmaids! Our favs?

Check o u t www.scentprises.com or your local customizable perfume stops.

- 19 -

You are cordially invited to...

A Grand Reception, A Fairytail Wedding, A Sensational Celebration, A Special Occasion...

Anything you can imagine, Party Planning, Floral Arrangement, Chavari Chair Rental & Lounge Furniture Rental, Event Design...

RSVP Today!

something borrowed�

SYMBOLIZES BORROWED HAPPINESS FROM LOVED ONES

photo provided by open aperture photography

You dream it, we create it!

4511 North Midkiff Rd Suite A-04 Midland, Texas 79705 (432) 689-3090

B RO O C H B O U Q U E T

You don’t want to wear grandma's on your $5,000.00 gown?

You can create a bouquet out of brooches and knick knacks from various loved ones. Bonus? Your bouquet won’t die! photo provided by Clicking Through Life

H O N O R FA I T H

WWW.FIXITWITHFROSTING.COM

Carry a loved one's prayer book or Bible down the aisle. This not only incorporates your faith and lets you borrow something special to honor a loved one. but also your “something borrowed” for your wedding day.

- 22 -

�something BLUE

STANDS FOR PURITY, LOVE AND FIDELITY .

"I DO" BLUE

Bright blue shores are adorable! This bride added an extra spiffy item but putting "I Do" On the back of her shoe!

ADD A LITTLE BLUE TO A BORROWED ITEM?

This gorgeous vintage lace blue garter lets you have your “something blue” and “borrowed” vintage style.

Photography by Verdi

A BLUE LINING

This gorgeous bride added a touch of blue to her dress, as an added surprise.

Her favorite color was blue so why not make her dress a little blue as well?

PENNY FOR YOUR GARTER The very last part of the rhyme, most peopel forget... Sixpence in your shoe. Aside from ordering a sixpence online, you canplace a penny from a significant year (year you were born mayhaps?) in your garter. Lets be real ... pennies in your shoe don't sound comfortable.

e c en

Photography by Verdi

p x i s a d n a e o h s r u o in y

STANDS FOR GOOD FORTUNE IN YOUR NEW LIFE.

- 23 -

�classic�

MODERN+ Photography by Captivated Images

CHAMPAGNE ISN'T JUST FOR A TOAST

Shades of yellow isn’t just for Bridemaids and Flowergirls anymore!

This gorgeous candelight yellow Mori Lee bridal gown (provided by Bella's) is absolutely fab! Bonus? Looks great on all skin tones, no fear of being washed out by pure white. (Left & Below)

FIT FOR A QUEEN

Want to be a princess? Why not a queen on your day? This gorgeous white ball gown will make anybody look flattering.

The intricate beading on the bodice creates an elegant look. (Right)

We know you’ve got

something to celebrate.

We’ve got a flavor for every occasion wedding party gifts • guest goodies • wedding showers

Lubbock 5217 98th Street, Ste. 300 (806) 794-2000

E XQUI SI TE BE ADI N G

This amazing Casablanca Bridal Gown provides a trumpet shaped skirt with flower beading. A beaded sweetheart neckline is the perfect accent to any gorgeous bride on her day.

WHO CAN RESIST AN E XC U S E TO W E A R R E D LIPSTICK?

This gorgeous white satin gown Ivy by Maggie Sottero has just enough bling to create an elegant profile. With a simple back the focus is entirely on the bride for her special day.

(Above & Above Right)

YEL LOW L ACE

Amira's Mori Lee gown (provided

by Bella's) is the perfect combination between an exquisite fitted bodice & mermaid skirt. with a lace overlay and shades of yellow in just the right places.

(Right)

BLUSHING

Blushing doesn't need to just refer to the bride's demeanor anymore!

This gorgeous dress (Athena by Maggie Soterro) is a lovely pink color that fits any skin tone.

CLASSIC ELEGANCE

Holly looks exuisite in Bronwyn by Maggie Sottero. The Lace & Peephole Back creates an elegant gown that even your grandmother will love. This classic gown provides a gorgeous outline with lace capped sleeves, and an equisite peephole back. This is perfect for brides looking for more coverage than your typical strapless wedding dress. (Above)

PURE WHITE

Kajal shows off her gorgeous skin tone with a pure white Allure wedding dress (provided by Bella's). She is a great example of pure white looking stunning on a bride. The gorgeous mermaid gown creates a fun yet elegant look perfect for any type of wedding. (Right ) - 32 -

Full Service Planning Decorating Catering

Great events do not happen by themselves - there is an art to entertaining. Call us today for a free consultation, so we can take care of the rest.

We provide ...

Norma Nash (Certified Event Planner) Tables Chairs Table Cloths + Runners Chair Covers + Ties Center Pieces Chandliers Ceiling Drapery and

more!

602 FM 1585 Lubbock TX 79423 806. 787.8608 www.eleganteventsbynn.com

REMEMBER TO LOOK BACK

Another view of Bronwyn by Maggie Sottero provides a gorgeous outline, with just enough skin without scaring your grandmother! (Above)

CAP SLEEVED PRINCESS

Sometimes, it's hard to find a wedding dress with sleeves that still makes you feel like a princess. Adrien by Maggie Sottero is a great example of this. The gorgeous tulle skirt coupled with sheer neck lining makes this a perfect addition to any wedding day.

The Watson Building Where Elegance Meets Excitement 1109 13th St. Lubbock 806.765.7171 or 806.543.4863 www.thewatsonbuilding.com

designer locations in West Texas

Think these dresses are gorgeous? Here's some of our fav stores that offer the designers we've mentioned in our photo shoot!

CASABLANCA BRIDAL ALLURE BRIDAL

Absolute Bridal (Midland, TX) Brides (Amarillo, TX) Bella's (Lubbock, TX) University Bridal (Odessa, TX)

Absolute Bridal (Midland, TX) Brides (Amarillo, TX) Bella's (Lubbock, TX) University Bridal (Odessa, TX)

AlluAB Absolu

MAGGIE SOTTERO

Brides (Amarillo, TX) Bella's (Lubbock, TX) University Bridal (Odessa, TX)

MORI LEE

Absolute Bridal (Midland, TX) Brides (Amarillo, TX) Bella's (Lubbock, TX)

Check out page 88 and see how our expert makeup artist did the models makeup!

credits

Venue - The Baker Building Hair- Cathy's Clipper's Dry Bar Jewelry - Diamontrique Dresses: Bella's, Maggie Soterro & Casablanca Bridal Make Up- Brooke Bowlin

When Unique Matters . . .

2611 US Highway 70 Olton, Texas

806-292-7516

walnuttreeweddings.com

photography by Aric + Casey, Amy Rose King & Katie Woody

When you’re looking for a custom wedding, we are the perfect venue!

Walnut Tree, West Texas’ Premiere All Inclusive Venue, takes the stress out of wedding planning. From the venue to DJ services, florals, catering, and even your wedding cake, we take care of it all.

photography by Aric + Casey, Amy Rose King & Katie Woody

� s g n i dd

REAL

e �w

Be the Belle of the Ball with ...

A gorgeous sweetheart neckline (pg. 41 ) An amazing lace train (pg. 53) And vintage sheer accents (Pg. 74)

Photo by Chriselda Photography

From Trendy to Traditional & Intimate to Lavish

PAULA BARNETT

Floral Designer

Certified Wedding Planner

432-770-1121

BARNETTANDCOFLORAL.COM

bailley� � �robert�

photography provided by Photos by Betsy

the detailsďż˝ THE COUPLE Bailley + Robert Lewdowski THE WEDDING June 15, 2013 THE CEREMONY First Chrisitan Church in Lubbock THE RECEPTION The Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts THE DRESS Allure (From Bella's in Lubbock) F LO R I S T + C AT E R E R Market Street

THE BEGINNING

We met in college. Our roommates put together a night at the movies for a group of us.

Robert, of course, was his loud and funny self the whole night while I was very quiet and shy (I thought Rob was so cute and funny, I was really nervous!). Luckily, another movie night was planned a few days later with just a few people. I was unsure if it was a "date", (so it made for a lot of nerves beforehand as well). But Robert made sure it was. The night was full of movies, hand holding, ice cream, swinging at the park and laughs!

T H E P RO P O S A L

Robert, my family and I headed to my grandparent’s house for Easter weekend. (Since we were out of town, it never crossed my mind that Robert would propose.) On Saturday the girls spent a wonderful day in town shopping and getting manicures! That night I was told to try on my new dress and once I had it on, I walked out and the journey began. I walked out to a trail of balloons and my brother recording the whole event. I followed the balloons through the house, all the while, laughing and smiling not knowing what to do with myself! At the end, I saw that the balloons were leading me to my Gigi and Poppy's beautiful backyard, a place that holds a special place in my heart. What was about to happen set in and the tears started to flow! What I saw was absolutely breathtaking. It was nighttime, and lights were strung from all the trees. In the middle of the yard, surrounded by candles, was the love of my life. I got to Robert, heard the most beautiful words, watched as he got down on one knee. He asked me to be his wife, to which, of course, I SAID YES! I cannot describe the joy and love I felt, such a surreal moment. Soon after I said yes I heard excited screams from the corner of the yard where my amazing family, and to my surprise all my sweet, sweet friends were watching! It was such an amazing night!

DJ Music to the Maxx

THE DRESS

CAKE CAKE in Lubbock

walking down the aisle to Robert in this dress! It was such a fun and exciting day!

We went to Bellas, I was not planning on buying a dress that day. Just a day to look. I tried on about 10 dresses and in the end there were two I was trying to decide between! At last I knew which one was the one. I felt like a bride and most importantly I could see myself - 42 -

THE VISION

We envisioned our wedding to be fun and elegant. We wanted the day to be filled with beauty and elegance but also with lots of fun! We brought the beauty in with flowers and lots of candles. The fun was present through oversized engagement pictures, a popcorn bar, mini cupcakes and a dance floor!

FAVO R I T E M O M E N T S

Robert: My favorite part was the ceremony, especially seeing Bailley walk down the aisle. When I saw her in her dress, all my anxiety went away. Her smile calmed my heart. And the vows we wrote and exchanged were AWESOME. We both agreed it was a great way to proclaim our love for one another, and Bailley’s were the sweetest, most heartwarming things I have ever heard.

FAVO R I T E D E TA I L

My aunt got a few of our engagement pictures blown up for us and we put them on easels around the reception area. We loved how it turned out! We also did a popcorn bar full of fun flavors with personalized bags!

FA M I LY T R A D I T I O N S

We loved being able to bring family traditions into our wedding! Robert’s parents let us use the same bride and groom champagne flutes they used, so special! My Poppy (grandfather) passed away about a year before our wedding. He was one of the most special and important men in my life. For the wedding day I knew I wanted to have memories of him around. I got three of his handkerchiefs embroidered with different, sayings. One went to my mom (his daughter), one to my Gigi (his wife) and one was with me during the ceremony. I was able to carry a piece of my Poppy with me, dry my tears, and wipe some sweat off Robert’s face! I know my grandfather loved it, smiling and laughing down on us.

B I G G E S T S P L U RG E

Photography! Our photographer, Betsy Lackey was wonderful! We both think it is one of the best areas to spend money. She gave us the most beautiful pictures. Pictures that captured all the emotions felt during one of the best days of our lives. We will treasure these photos forever. Get a wonderful photographer, it is more than worth it!

B E S T A DV I C E

Enjoy it! A lot goes into planning a wedding and it is easy to get stressed. But instead enjoy each moment, plan together as a couple and have fun during the process! Not everything will go perfectly and that is ok! Remember the most important thing is that you are about to marry the love of your life!

FIND OUT WHAT THEY ARE DOING NOW AND MORE DETAILS ABOUT BAILLEY AND ROBERTS WEDDING CHECK OUT OUR BLOG: theweddingconnectionmagazine.com/blog

WANT A UNIQUE

PRE-MARITAL CLASS?

You will laugh, learn and lay

the foundations for a

Christ centered marriage!

Gabi & Mike KEENUM

(806) 790-1327 gkeenum@sptc.net

REGISTRATION FEE

(per couple): $150 before August 1st $200 after August 1st

Our pre-marital class, endorsed by Twogether in Texas, includes 8 small group sessions that include topics of roles in marriage, communication, sex, in-laws and love and respect. In addition, we provide personality testing and analysis by a trained psychologist.

The Fall 2013 Session

Lubbock's Choice for Couture and Designer Bridal and Prom Fashion

STARTS ON FEBRUARY 16th CLASSES ARE SUNDAYS

5-7pm At First Baptist Church

3501 50th St ~ Lubbock, TX 79413 (806) 793-3884 ~ bellasbridal.net

elegant BRIDESMAIDS

Elegant bridesmaids don't all have to match! Check out thes two different but gorgeous styles of bridesmaid dresses

MISMATCHED VINTAGE

Opting for lace bridesmaid dresses in black with various styles creates a gogeous sophistcated look. Adding lace to all of hte dresses gives it just a hint of vintage.

Bridesmaid dresses left to right: Brides, Absolute Bridal.

Wedding dress provided by Alfred Angelo. Hairpiece by Unveiled Bridal Designs.

COLORFUL ELEGANCE

Obsessed pretty much sums up how we feel about them. The trend of different gowns is huge right now. Here is an example of an amazingly elegant way to not only do different styled, but different colors and still create a cohesive vintage look. (dresses provided by Alfred Angelo)

photos by Rhonda Elder

Bella Tratta Home & Floral Full Service Wedding Florist 4555 East University Odessa, TX (432) 614-2455 / Find us on Facebook!

Beautiful, Elegant, Timeless

Everything your wedding should be and more.

Chase Tower, LB 1206

600 S. Tyler St

Amarillo, TX

806-373-4361

www.amarilloclub.net

WEDDING DAY survival GUIDE Parie Villyard (owner of Secret Garden in Amarillo, TX) has been planning desinging & coordinating weddings for over 30 years)

Thanks to Google, you’ve got access to scores of lists on the internet to give you “tips” to surviving your Big Day. I say trust experience! Since I coordinate, plan and design around 30 weddings a year, you’ll see results and enjoy the wedding day more when you implement my trusted Top 10 list. Now - ready, set... get planning!

1. HIRE A WEDDING PLANNER

5. EMERGENCY KIT

Consider placing these items in easy-to-access envelopes and entrusting them to your wedding planner:

8. DON"T FORGET ...

This is truly the best way to survive your wedding weekend. They Put together a Bridal Emergency Kit. Pain relievers, hair spray, are prepared for almost anything; it’s their job. band aides, chalk, safety pins, kleenex, deodorant, etc. By the way, all good wedding planners include this in their pricing.

(Check out our fav kit on the trend report) 2. DON'T FORGET TO EAT! Don’t consume heavy meals in an attempt to quiet the wedding-day jitters. And speaking of jitters - cut back on caffeine. 6. CHALK I bet Aunt Sally keeps asking what she can do to help. Well, give This might be the best trick out there. Chalk should be someher the job of providing trays of healthy snacks for each dressing where close at hand for a quick, last-minute touch-up of your area, complete with plenty of bottled water. dress, just in case the unthinkable happens. Say your sweet niece decides to grab it right after she’s dipped into some chocolately snacks. Chalk will save the day!

3. ENVELOPES ARE YOUR FRIEND Pack wedding-day necessities at least four days before the ceremony. Rings, important documents, Grandma’s hanky for 7. BE PRINT READY your bouquet, needs to be where you can find it quickly and easily. Have your wedding timeline printed and ready to hand to the Have everything marked in separate envelopes there’s no searching DJ or other vendors and coordinators. Or better yet, have all at the last minute. those files in a Dropbox folder on your phone, where you can access everything quickly and easily.

Printed vows A list of vendors with phone numbers Marriage license DJ play list Printed toasts for Father, the best man, etc.

Printed Scripture readings Tip envelopes marked with each vendor’s business name Copies of your invitations and save-the-date for photographer Copies of your wedding timeline and ceremony order

4. THE GAME PLAN

If your family and friends are doing the decorating at the church and reception site, plan ahead. Get everything finished the day before. Do you really want to be ironing tablecloths four hours before you say, “I do”?

Toasting flutes, cake servers and cocktail napkins. These are by far the Top 3 items brides forget on their Big Day.

9. FINALLY

Stop . . .

Breathe . . .

Look in the mirror . . .

Reflect on your amazing day and all of the hard work, dedication, support and love that has gone into getting you there.

10. THANK YOU

And don’t forget to thank all your loved ones for their support and help; you truly couldn’t have done it without them.

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1502 5th Ave • Canyon, Texas • (806) 655-8700 www.canyoncakeninjas.com

REAL wedding

�courtney jonathan� � photography by Chriselda Photography

the details� THE COUPLE

Courtney & Jonathan Harris

CEREMONY + RECEPTION Moonwater Weddings, Amarillo TX

DRESS

Lasting Bridal Couture; Addison, TX

BRIDESMAID DRESSES Bella Rose Bridal; Edmond, OK

MENSWEAR

Men's Wearhouse

F LO R I S T

Flowers by Amy

CAKE

The Cake Company

DJ

Kent Hilton

PLANNER Krystal Burns

D E C O R AT I O N S

Marci with Moonwater Weddings

THE BEGINNING

We met in high school back in 2008, at Amarillo High School. Jonathan was a Senior about to graduate and I (Courtney) was a Junior. Jonathan went off to college at Texas A&M University only 4 months after we had started dating. Then I graduated, a year later, I began attending The University of Oklahoma, a lifelong dream. We did a long distance relationship for 5 years, only seeing each other for extended time periods on Christmas breaks and a summers. But, we didn’t let the distance stop us from staying strong.

T H E P RO P O S A L

Jonathan proposed to me on December 23, 2012. I came home for Christmas on December 22, and the following day is my mom’s birthday. I thought the plan all day was to get our nails done (my mother and I) and then go to dinner with my parents and Jonathan to celebrate. The night of the proposal Jonathan insisted on picking me up to go to dinner, even though I was at my parents’ house and we were all going to the same place for dinner. So he picked me up and instead of going to dinner, he took me to the very place we originally started dating 5 years before. It was a little park that is right by my house. Jonathan had flowers and candles sitting on a table with a picture book of different memories we had made. Each page he wrote what he remembered about that day and why he fell more in love with me. Then the final page was a picture of him, me and his sister on her wedding day. He wrote that Tricia (his sister) said that was the happiest day of her life, and he couldn’t wait to share that day with me and then wrote “will you marry me?” He had a photographer, the wonderful Chriselda, taking pictures of the whole engagement. I loved it! He then had a huge engagement party planned immediately following.

THE DRESS

I was in Dallas for the Cotton Bowl with my and Jonathan’s family. It was a perfect time to go look for dresses. I thought I would just go and get some ideas. However, once I saw the beautiful Tara Keely dress on the mannequin, I just had a feeling it was the one for me. We have a picture of me, my mom, and my sister all pointing to it at the bridal shop. I walked out and everyone loved it. I didn’t want to take it off, but I had other beautiful gowns in the dressing room so I wanted to see what else was out there. Once I started putting the others on, nothing compared. So I put the first dress back on. When I saw my Dad start tearing up as I put the veil on, it all hit me, this is really happening and that was MY dress.

It was the first place I went and the first dress I tried on, a true God thing. No stress over the dress, what a blessing!

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Perfect Weddings Begin at the Overton Hotel • 20,000-square-foot column-free Grand Ballroom • Receptions for up to 500 people • Junior Ballroom for smaller receptions or ceremonies • Rehearsal Dinners, Bridal Luncheons, Departure Brunches • Unique & Personalized Catering Options • Impeccable Service • 303 Upscale Rooms and Suites • Bridal Suite on 15th floor with Romantic Views • Hospitality Suites for Bridal Party events

Phone: 806.776.7012 • Email: sales@overtonhotel.com Internet: OvertonHotel.com

Come on over to

theweddingconnectionmagazine.com

and don’t forget to stop by

The Hitching Post! + P R E T T Y P R I N TA B L E S + REAL WEDDINGS + G LO R I O U S V E N D O R S + FA B U LO U S G I V E AWAY S + P L A N N I N G TO O L S

+ AND MORE!

THE VISION

My vision for the wedding was a relaxed elegant atmosphere. I wanted people to be able to just see the Lord through us and not feel like it was an uptight wedding. I tried to display that through everything I did. I love light romantic colors, and I themed the whole wedding around that feeling.

THE FOOD

The food was amazing and done by a very special friend. She had previously been a caterer but then had 3 children and could not keep up anymore. However, she felt the Lord had asked her to do this as a gift to us. It was such a blessing. We had beef tenderloin, shrimp shooters, cucumbers with dill, petite sandwiches, bruchetta, stuffed strawberries w/ crème cheese, and a roasted veggie tray. We wanted everything to be able to be eaten cool because it was outdoors and I FAVO R I T E M O M E N T S I would say, for me, my favorite moments were of course, walking was concerned about keeping everything warm in a tent. It was perfect! We had Helping Hands from Amarillo, TX as our bartenders for down the aisle to my man as my sister sang “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” it was a moment I will forever cherish. Jonathan said one of the night. We served beer and wine. The cakes were amazing from his favorite moments of the wedding was having the first look, he The Cake Company in Canyon, TX. The Groom’s cake was red velvet and the Bride’s cake was vanilla and snickerdoodle. said he really loved those few minutes we had, just the two of us talking, it was the least stressful part of the day until the end.

B E S T S P L U RG E I T E M

T H E F I R S T LO O K

We ended up probably splurging on the venue. We kept upping the amount of things that we would get from the venue and the amount of people. It was gorgeous and totally worth the splurge!

I wanted to do a “First Look” because I knew it would be a special moment between the two of us before the craziness of the day.

Honestly, I would recommend it to everyone. It really calmed my nerves and let me just relax before walking down the aisle. We also FAVO R I T E D E TA I L got to do a lot of pictures beforehand which allowed us to have We ended up probably splurging on the venue. We kept upping the more time to enjoy the reception! amount of things that we would get from the venue and the amount of people. It was gorgeous and totally worth the splurge!

- 56 -

T H E M U S I C + F I R S T DA N C E

For our First dance we chose, "I Will" by Dia Frampton. We really struggled finding the perfect first dance song, but once we found this one it was perfect! For the Father Daughter Dance we started off with "The Way You Look Tonight" by Frank Sinatra and then we transitioned into "The Twist."

At that point the whole wedding party and family members that had learned the dance came up. We had a choreographed dance (thanks to Jason Crespin) to the song "Love Today" by Mika. That was one of my favorite parts, not just performing the dance but learning it 3 days earlier with all my friends!

What fun memories!!

B E S T A DV I C E

I would say don’t stress over the tiny details, in the end you get to marry your best friend and you won’t even notice the things that go wrong.

Like my photobooth lady was 30 minutes late, I had no idea till the end of the reception and at that point, I really didn’t care! Just enjoy the engagement and take the time to focus on your relationship/future marriage rather than just focusing on the wedding.

THE FUTURE

Right now we are working and living in Edmond, OK. Just enjoying our marriage and football!

Continued on page 74

806.745.2873 6419 94th Street (Off of 94th & Milwaukee) Lubbock, Texas 79424 www.rotenhomes.com

We build affordable, quality and luxurious homes for the first time and move up home buyers.

a touch of vintage creates timeless �elegance

ELEGANCE IS TIMELESS Trends come and go, shoulder pads, mullets, and acid washed jeans to name a few.

Something that never seems to fade is a crisp, classic timeless beauty. We're talking about the Audrey Hepburn elegance that an amazing dress can give a woman on her wedding day. Here's some fun, gorgeous dresses with a touch of vintage and a lot of elegance to create timless looks.

photograpy by Eternal Bliss Photography

ELEGANT LACE

A gorgeous sweetheart neckline with scalloped lace is a perfect example of timeless elegance. Lace instantly creates a classic vintage look.

(Dress provided by Brides) Above

VINTAGE VEIL

This classic french netted short veil is a perfect example of a touch of vintage to create an elegant look. This veil falls just below her nose, framing her face beautifully. You're still able to take photos in your veil, as well as accent your lips. (hair piece provided by Unveiled Bridal Designs) Right

PAIRED ELEGANCE

Pairing an illusion veil with a trumpet or mermaid gown creates a sophisticated look. This Allure Gown (provided

by Absolute Bridal) is a great example of a tight fitted bodice, drop waist that comes to a full skirt (in the shape of a trumpet). Her illusion short veil, still shows of her gorgeous face, but provides a classic look as opposed to the netting. (veil provided by Unveiled Bridal Designs) next page

- 62 -

Queenie’s Jewels brooch bouquets

to order call (432) 638-7076

ELEGANCE FROM ALL ANGLES

One thing that makes wedding dresses so unique is the back! The buttons, train, and decorations create an all around elegant look. Both of these are amazing examples of utterly gorgeous trains! (Dress on left from Bliss Bridal Wedding & Gift, Dress on right provided by Absolute Bridal)

SIMPLE ELEGANCE

Your gown doesn't have to be ornate to create an elegant bride. This simple satin gown, gathered on the side creates a gorgeous shape for this bride. (Alfred Sung dress provided by Bliss Bridal Wedding & Gift)

ELEGANCE IN WHITE

Another way to add a classic, clean look to your wedding is dress your flower girls in white. (Dress on right provided by Alfred Angelo, Dress on left provided is provided

by Bliss Bridal Wedding & Gift)

ETHEREAL ELEGANCE

This breathtaking Casablance Bridal Gown (provided by Absolute Bridal) creates an angel like elegant look with the ruched flowered tulle creates amazing, details, and breathtaking photos.

VINTAGE NECKLINE

Sheer neckline, higher up than the neckline of the original dress is a classic vintage look. This Alfred Angelo dress does a gorgeous job of using the sheer neckline, decorated with flowers and off the shoulder cut creates an amazingly elegant look with a touch of the '50s classic fashion. left

FEATHERED ELEGANCE

If you're disinclined to don a veil for your special day, a simply understated hair fascinator is a good substitute. This gorgeous feathered hairpiece, provides a little sparkle, but doesn't overpower the amazing cream and white feathers.

The color combination makes it to where this hair piece can be paired with several different tones of dresses. (Hairpiece provided by Unveiled Bridal Design) above

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Dresses provided by Bliss Bridal Wedding & Gift

The finest custom bridal jewelry since 1979.

Visit our showroom to view our extensive bridal collection, custom designs, class rings and other fashion jewelry collection. We also specialize in jewelry repair and restoration as well as watch repair.

4210 82nd St. #202 Lubbock, TX 79423

(806) 794-7766

www.thackerjewelry.net

Inside the Kingsgate Shopping Center

TRAIN OF ELEGANCE

Adding an extra long, ruched train like this Sophia Tolley provides a simple dress with added elegance.

Dress provided by Bliss Bridal Wedding & Gift

SHORT ELEGANCE

Short wedding dresses are making their way back, for a super fun, laid back wedding opt for a hemline. Bonus? No bustle to worry about!!

(Dress provided by Absolute Bridal)

huge thanks to

... (credits)

Hair - Patriciia Chavez & Brittany Shelton from En Vogue Salon Makeup - Brooke Bowlin Venue - Hotel Settles Hair Pieces - Unveiled Bridal Design Dresses - Alfred Angelo, Absolute Bridal & Bliss Bridal Wedding & Gift

VINTAGE TRAIN

Having a netted, lace train such as this Mori Lee (provided by Absolute Bridal) creates an elegant vintage look. The gorgeous full skirt, is complimented by a fitted drop waist bodice.

Photos by Capitvated Images

�heather� � colby

the details�

THE CEREMONY First United Methody Church

R E N TA L S ITM Photobooth

C AT E R E R Top Tier Catering

THE COUPLE Heather & Colby McLlean

THE RECEPTION Frazier Alumni Pavillion

MENSWEAR First Class Tuxedo

CAKE Aunt Norie's Bakery

THE WEDDING August 17, 2013

THE DRESS Allure Bridal

BRIDESMAIDS- MUSIC West Texas DJ Billy Levkoff

- 74 -

THE BEGINNING

Colby and I met while working at Starbucks a few years before we started dating.

Throughout the years we became best friends. Everyone kept telling us that we should get together because we would be perfect for each other. We hesitated to start dating because we didn’t want to mess up our friendship, but we finally decided to give it a shot. Our friendship has only made our relationship stronger. I can truly say that I married my best friend!

T H E P RO P O S A L

Ruidoso is special place to us. It was our first getaway as a couple and we go there as often as we can. It started to get cold early that year. We had to make a trip to turn the heaters on in the cabin so that the pipes wouldn’t freeze. We drove into Ruidoso late on a Friday night. On the way through town, we stopped at the store to pick up some groceries, wine, and cheese. We had planned on going to dinner; but while we were driving to the cabin, we realized that all the electricity in the city was out. Colby lit some candles and started a fire in the fireplace. We both agreed that since the restaurants weren’t going to be open, that we would relax by the fire and enjoy our cheese and wine. As we were sitting there next to the fire enjoying each other’s company, Colby pulled an engagement ring out of his pocket and asked me to marry him. I immediately said YES! I had no idea what he was planning; I really thought we were taking the trip to turn the heaters on.

THE DRESS

Before my first shopping trip, I looked at dresses online and I fell in love with an Allure bridal dress but I wasn’t sure how it would look on me. Unfortunately this dress was a spring 2013 design which had not been released and most likely would not be released in time for my wedding. After numerous trips to seven bridal salons in five different cities trying on nearly 100 dresses, I was ready to just pick something. On my final trip, I was ecstatic to see the dress that I had fell in love with online was in the trunk show at the salon that weekend. I tried it on and knew immediately that it was the one!

FA M I LY T R A D I T I O N S

As my something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and the sixpence for my shoe, my grandmother made me a garter that had them all. She sewed into the lace a penny from the year I was born, a penny from the year I was married, a dime from my Papa, tiny blue roses, and a sixpence which her and my Papa had been keeping since I was a baby. Both of us have several grandparents that have passed away so we wanted to honor them. At the ceremony we simple had a candle burning on the altar in their memory. At the reception we had a table with all of their pictures displayed with a message that stated “We know you would be here today, if heaven weren’t so far away”.

- 75 -

B I G G E S T S P L U RG E

Our photographer!! Captivated Images was absolutely fabulous! Dominique gave me so many wonderful ideas and was a joy to work with. Dominique and Barry are both wonderful photographers and captured our engagements, my bridals, and our wedding beautifully. Dominique and Kara were always available with any questions I had. Even with our huge wedding party and extended families, they made the entire process a breeze. If I had to so it all over again I would definitely go with Captivated Images.

FAVO R I T E M O M E N T

I enjoyed seeing everyone dancing having a great time and seeing how much fun everyone had with the photo booth. The ceiling decorations turned out beautifully. Kym Ruiz and her team did a fabulous job of taking all of our ideas and making them come together better than I imagined.

A DV I C E

Plan ahead, stay organized, and don’t sweat the small stuff. When your wedding day comes, just enjoy it!

THE FUTURE

Enjoy being married! Maybe a new house and/or a baby in the next few years.

Las Brisas Southwestern Steakhouse 4701 112th St, Lubbock, TX (806) 687-6050 • las-brisas.com

- 76 -

Stone Creek

Special Events Center

Lubbock’s Premire All Inclusive Venue North Milwaukee 806.789.2975 stonecreeklubbock.com

Making Your Dre

Packages Include: Photography Flowers + Decor Food + Spirits Cake Setup + Cleanup Indoor + Outdoor Facilities DJ

ams Come True, All in One Place!

The Hemingway Fine Cigars, Pipes, Tobacco & Accessories

3952 E. 42nd Street Suite O Odessa, TX 79762

(432) 550-5511

��for for the the��

Photos by Reese Moore Weddings

GROOM

the southern gentleman

When planning your wedding, sometimes your groom gets lost in the shuffle. It's not on purpose, but it's often hard for grooms to get excited about flower types, colors or centerpieces. Weddings don't have to all be burlap, lace and blushing bridesmaids. Check out this styled shoot! This themed party is not just for boys, but there isn't a pink bow in sight! Incorporate aspects of this shoot to make your groom feel a part of the wedding (and come on who doesn't love BBQ and bow ties?)

G RO O M S C A K E

Check out this black cake!

Your grooms cake doesn't have to be a silly football field, or armadillo shaped.

Instead, opt for something super classy. This cake is the perfect elegeant design that's still fit for a groom (not a princess)

CIGAR BAR F L A S K FAVO R S

Stuck on groomsmen gifts? No worries! A super cute groomsmen favor idea is engraved flasks. Extra bonus? Get spiffy wooden ones like the above photo!

Does your groom love cigars with friends? Have a cigar bar at your wedding or dinner. A great favor for cigar fan!

BBQ FOOD

Who doesn't love BBQ? Try incorporating foods your man loves at your reception is a great way to get him invloved. If you're worried about getting your dress messy offer boneless, clearn alternatives as well!

SIGN WITH A QUILL

Use old calligraphy, or calligraphy like fonts as a way to set the tone for your southern gentlemen wedding. Hint: font colors other than black such as sepia tones gives it an "older" look.

PUT A BOW ON IT

Bowties are not just adorable for the groomsmen to wear but also as decorations at your reception.

A very dapper look for tables and men!

8215 University Ave #130 Lubbock, TX 79423 (806) 748-8000

www.ediblearrangements.com

No one ever gushed about how tasty the flowers were.

she said yes to the dress

caisha

THE WINNER OF OUR OCTOBER DRESS GIVEAWAY! THE PLAN

I went into Bliss hoping to find a dress that would complement my body type/personality and that would make me feel like a bride. I knew that I wanted something with lace or that had something unique about it because I love the opulence of lace and I like to deviate from the norm. Jenn, General Manager of Bliss Bridal Wedding and Gift, pulled several dresses for me to try on just by looking at my Pinterest and Facebook accounts. All of the ladies were super sweet and extended their kindness to me throughout the whole process.

HER ENTOURAGE

The majority of my bridal party live out of town, so the people I brought along were: my mom, Cecilia, my daughter, Mychael, & one of my bridesmaids, Anissa, who brought along her son Elijah. I felt as if they would be the best people to bring, not only because of convenience, but because they know me well and would be able to give their honest opinions.

Some other people in my bridal party weighed in via picture mail and text!

THE DRESS

I ended up choosing the very last dress that I tried on (I tried on about 5-6 dresses all together). I was just about to get back into the favorite of the day and the ladies ended up telling me to wait just a moment because there was one more dress that they felt would be perfect for me. As soon as I put the dress on and saw how it accentuated my body, I knew it would be the one I would walk out of the store with! Everyone that was present seemed to feel the same. The best details about the dress are the lace and the appliquĂŠs on the belted sash.

photos provided by kaylie rush photography

Your perfect day should include your perfect cake!

Call us to schedule your consultation today!

6301 82nd St. Ste 801 Lubbock, TX 79424.

(806) 783-9091 www.cakerylubbock.com

a blissful affair

Breast cancer affects women and men everywhere, it's one of the most common cancers that a woman can get. It's also a unifying moment!

Several companies came together on October 20th at the Baker Building to fundraise for Breast Cancer Resarch and Breast Cancer survivors in the Lubbock area. Bliss Bridal Wedding and Gift spearheaded the event, and provided models and dresses. The benefit was a fashion show with gorgeous bridal dresses. The catch? Every model had been effected by breast cancer or had personally survived survived breast cancer.

Tickets were sold with 100% of the proceeds going to the Susan G. Komen foundation for the cure. Jennifer Nash (Manager at Bliss Bridal Wedding and Gift) reports that while she can't count exactly how much money they have received (it's still pouring in), she and Susan G. Komen are very happy wtih the results. She estimates that there was well over 100 people at the Fashion Show.

The night kicked off with an introduction by Sandy Miller, the Susan G. Komen Lubbock representative. Then the DJ played an array of wedding songs as the show began and the models came down the stairs.

Ushers in groomsmen tuxedos ushered the brides to the runway as they paraded in their bridal gowns. Accompanying the dresses were ornate bouquets by Box of Rain Florals and exquisite broach bouquets by Photography by Jacie Leigh Photography Queenie’s.

Experience the Difference

Full Service Catering for all of your Wedding Needs Hors d’oeuvres – Table Service – Buffet Style www.dannysfinsandhens.com 806.744.0400 5101 Ave Q Lubbock, TX 79412

5204 50th St. Lubbock, TX 806.797.8612 savannahoaksapartments.net

One model, Sunny Park, has been a breast cancer survivor for the past year and a half. Another, Jamie Livingston (opposite page, right photo), is currently undergoing treatment for the breast cancer at age 27, and rocked her headpiece without hair. Jamie received a loud roar of applause from the crowd as she proclaimed, “cancer has taken my hair, but it hasn’t taken my spirit.” The evening became slightly more emotional as each woman gave a short speech about their experiences with breast cancer.

All money raised by the event was donated 100% to the Susan G. Komen foundation; 25% will go to Breast Cancer Research, and 75% will stay in the Lubbock area. All people affected stressed the importance of getting checked. Jamie Livingston told the crowd that cancer does not discriminate with age. You can get breast cancer whether you are eighty, or twenty.

Sponsors of the event: Adornments Studio, Aunt Carol's Bakery, Bliss Bridal Wedding and Gift, Box of Rain Floral, Historic Baker Building, First Class Tuxedos, Jacie Leigh Photography, Jenni Dale Lord, Rain Uptown, Sweet Katy Girl Cookie Creations, Susan G. Komen Lubbock, Tammy Mancuso, The Wedding Connection Magazine, , and West Texas DJ Service

brooke

Cathy's Clippers Make-Up Artist & Stylist

kajal

amira

Natural + Smoky Eye

Smoky Eye

Products Used: Chanel Perfection Lumer (base) Pigments from MAC & bareMinerals (eye), Warmth by bareMinerals (bronzer), Secret by bareMinerals (blush), High Impact Waterproof Masacara by Clinique (mascara)

Products used: Origins Stay Tuned Foundations (base), Pigments from MAC & bareMinerals (eye), Secret by bareMinerals (blush), High Impact Waterproof Masacara by Clinique (mascara)

This was my favorite! I combined a natural look with a smoky edge.

What that means is we used natural tones of golds and browns to contour her eyes to give her a sultry yet elegant look. It’s important to use these colors sparingly to avoid an over dramatic look. Like the natural look we incorporated fake eyelashes, and we colored in her eyebrows. I finished her off with a dewy bronzer. I opted for lighter lips to soften her look.

Hint - This look is great for Brides with elegant yet simply gowns, with up do’s, and iridescent crystals you can opt for this look to emphasize the details of your gown.

- 88 -

I used a royal blue shadow with black shimmer, for darker skins this is a flawless timeless affect. If she had fairer skin I would have chosen a deeper plum color and greys. I chose the smoky eye because it was a more formal look, smoky eyes aren’t for your rustic looks but more so for places like the Baker Building but for evening formal events. Formal evens where you can have tons of fun with shimmer!

ASK THE

expert� Natural Look

megan

This is characterized by creamy eye tones but not frosted. To achieve a creamy look stay away from shimmer and opt instead for natural eye shadow colors. I dusted her with an all over skin shimmer, to give her a natural dewy look. Hint- To pull the look together with utter sophistication fill in the brows with your natural hair color, and opt for natural looking faux eye lashes.

Products used: bareMinerals (base), ¬Pigments from MAC & bareMinerals (eye), Secret by bareMinerals (blush), Awestruck by bareMinerals (all over shimmer), High Impact Waterproof Masacara by Clinique (mascara)

Cat Eye

This is a very Old Hollywood timeless look. Cat eyes have a place in any type of wedding regardless of the formality and location. What sets the cat eye apart is the use of neutral tones with the bold lipstick and the crisp black eye liner that gives it the eye affect.

If you’re going to have a style that incorporated finger curls or an A-line vintage dress you’d want to opt for a cat eye look.

Hint - Almond-eyed Brides, you can still get the cat eye look but instead of a full cat eye opt for a no liner on the bottom or a Half Cat eye.

Products used: Dior Air Flash (base), Pigments from MAC & bareMinerals (eye), Secret by bareMinerals (blush), High Impact Waterproof Masacara by Clinique (mascara) Hair was done by the Dry Bar at Cathy's Clippers., Lubock TX cathysclippers.com

holli

supplies 1. floral tape 2. ribbon (accent & base colors) 3. corsage pins 4. filler flowers (we suggest Queen Anne's Lace) 5. Focal flowers (we used hydrangeas) 6. scissors (don't run with them) 7. cups with water (just enough to not touch the ribbon) 8. cool room (helps prevent wilting)

�diy bouquets M A K E YO U R O W N B O U Q U E T S W I T H FA R M F R E S K F LO W E R S Making bouquets can be a huge, scary undertaking. We suggest if you intend to make your bouquets you should do trial runs, this way you don't end up flowerless and sad on your big day! There have been a lot of companies recently tyhat specialize in shipping flowers directly to brides from Farms. (Our fav? fiftyflowers. com) Companies like that allow a DIY Bride to successfully accomplish her dream bouquet! Here's some easy step by step foolproof instructions for a DIY bouquet. (Out Editor in Chief tried to make them, and she even was able to complete a bouquet, 10 thumbs and all!)

diy 1.

CHOOSE IT!

2.

First, choose the flowers. Things to consider: fillers, focal flowers & bridal bouquets vs. bridesmaids.

We opted for Queen Ann's Lace as a fun (non baby's breath) filler!

3.

WRAP IT!

Take the floral tape and begin at the base of the flowers (leave just a little green), begin to wrap tightly with the floral tape. The floral tape will adhere as you wrap. Be sure you wrap tightly!

ARRANGE IT!

To start your bouquet, begin with your big focal flowers, hold them in one hand and begin to arrange filler flowers in holes & gaps, continue this process until the bouquet has reached the size & look you want. Don't be afriad to move flowers around!

4.

C OV E R I T !

Cover the wrapped floral tape with wrapped ribbon. Want added pizzaz? Wrap with a base color and then go over the ribbon with lace or loosely wrap with a different color.

- 91 -

5.

PIN IT!

To hold the ribbon in place, pin along the base with corsage pins, to create a nice pearl line. (or rhinestones if you choose) Don't want pearls on your bouquet? pin discreetly up at the top to hide the pins.

little EXTRAS ...

SOMETIMES ADDING JUST THE RIGHT ACCESSORY MAKE A BEAUTIFUL BRIDE BREATHTAKING. SAME WENT FOR OUR WONDERFUL MODELS AND WE HAD TO SHARE! WE COULDN"T GET ENOUGH OF OUR STYLED SHOOT ACCESSORIES. photos provided by eternal bliss photography

SHAWL WE?

Shawls are great accessories especially for night and winter weddings! Bonus? When you get hot from grooving on the dance floor you can take it off! (Shawl provided by BHLDN) right

FASCINATING

Hair fascinators, like this, one are great alternatives to veils. This one has just a little netting to allude to a veil without actually covering your face! (left) (Hair piece provided by Unveiled Bridal Designs)

CHANDEL-EARRINGS

Sometimes, you don't have unique or heirloom jewelry to wear, that's ok! Less is sometimes better, afterall you spend $5,000 dollars on a gown you want that to be the focus.

Simple chandelier earrings are perfect! (earrings provided by BHLDN)

A BRIDGE TO LOVE

If you plan to wear your veil all day and are worried about it falling out of your hair this is the perfect solution. A bridge netted veil clips on either side to fit snuggly on your head!

(Hair piece provided by Unveiled Bridal Designs)

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MIDLAND PLAZA

Where the little things mean everything!

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82nd & Quaker • 806.791.0092 • JKeithJewelry.com