Weddings in Houston Magazine - Spring-Summer 2019 Issue by Weddings in Houston

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Weddings in Houston Magazine publishes twice a year with six covers, bringing you new content January 1 (Spring/Summer Issue) and July 1 (Fall/Winter Issue). Follow us on social and register on WeddingsInHouston.com to plan the perfect Houston wedding!

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JUL 2019

V 2019 spring/summer

MAGAZINE

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H O U S T O N

FOUNDER & CHAIRMAN JB Day PUBLISHER & CEO Radhika J. Day PRESIDENT Vik Day EDITOR Natasha Garber ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Lester Childres OPERATIONS MANAGER Sue Conner PRODUCTION MANAGER Carrie Skupinsky PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Tara Dotson OFFICE MASCOT Bella the Husky @BellaBooHouston ART DIRECTOR Rebecca Cashwell GRAPHIC DESIGNERS John and Malia Gattas CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Larry Fagala, Adam Nyholt, Jessica Frey, Civic Photos, Sylvie Gil SET STYLING & DECOR Todd Events, The Events Co., Swift + Co., RaoFactor, Events de Luxe WARDROBE STYLING Summar Salah

//ON THE COVER// FEBRUARY: Romona Keveza Gown Joan Pillow Bridal Salon / Jewelry Zadok Jewelers / Location The Post Oak Hotel Flowers & Decor The Events Co. / Photography Larry Fagala / Wardrobe Styling Summar Salah / Makeup VCI Artists Amber Livingston, Anna Kalita / Hair VCI Artist Dennis Clendennen

MARCH: Photography Sylvie Gil

Planning & Design Shannon Leahy Events / Floral Design Moon Canyon Design / Rentals & Furniture La Maison Options / Ribbons & Textiles Tono & Co. / Venue Chateau de Varennes / Naeem Khan Gown Jin Wang Available locally at Joan Pillow Bridal Salon / Accessories Bekah Anne / Shoes Bella Belle Shoes / Tuxedo & Men's Accessories The Black Tux / Production Manager NKT Events / Make Up & Hair Ava Belle Bridal APRIL: Vera Wang Gown Neiman Marcus Houston Location The Post Oak Hotel / Floral Necklace The Events Co. / Photography Larry Fagala / Wardrobe Styling Summar Salah / Makeup VCI Artists Amber Livingston, Anna Kalita / Hair VCI Artist Dennis Clendennen

MAY: Ines Di Santo Gown, Maria Elena Headpiece Joan Pillow

Bridal Salon / Jewelry Tenenbaum Jewelers / Tuxedo & Men's Accessories Suitsupply / Location The Post Oak Hotel / Flowers The Events Co. / Photography Larry Fagala Wardrobe Styling Summar Salah / Makeup VCI Artists Amber Livingston, Anna Kalita / Hair VCI Artist Dennis Clendennen Joan Pillow Bridal Salon / Ring Zadok Jewelers

JUNE: Naeem Khan Gown, Necklace

Earrings Neiman Marcus Houston

Photography Sylvie

Gil / Design, Decor & Styling Todd Events / Wardrobe Styling Summar Salah / Makeup VCI Artist Victoria Callaway / Hair VCI Artist Dennis Clendennen Leahy Events / Floral Design

JULY: Photography Sylvie Gil / Planning & Design Shannon

Moon Canyon Design / Venue Chateau de Varennes / Naeem Khan Gown Jin

Wang Available locally at Joan Pillow Bridal Salon / Accessories Bekah Anne / Shoes Bella Belle Shoes / Tuxedo & Men's Accessories The Black Tux / Production Manager NKT Events / Make Up & Hair Ava Belle Bridal

10 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N , L . P. 525 Arlington Street Houston TX 77007 713.464.4321 info@weddingsinhouston.com WeddingsInHouston.com HoustonWeddingBlog.com HoustonWeddingShows.com Weddings in Houston is printed semi-annually and distributed with a different cover each month. Content changes for the February and August issues. CopyrightÂ© 2019, Weddings in Houston, L.P. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. All information contained in this magazine is believed to be correct but Weddings in Houston cannot and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by the advertising companies.

| TO THE READER |

// A NOTE FROM THE //

PUBLI SH E R THIS ISSUE IS DEDIC ATED TO LOVE This issue of Weddings in Houston is

decadent cakes and artfully presented

all about LOVE—about celebrating

cuisine. We’ve shared beautiful (and

and honoring the love that has

doable) ideas for all your wedding-

brought together all of the couples you

related gatherings, whether intimate

see featured in these pages. Reading

or grand, at home or anywhere around

their stories and seeing their beautiful

the world!

celebrations is a reminder of the

Along with resources and real

power of love.

Houston weddings, you’ll find styled

photo: d jones

What do you love about planning your

shoots that represent our collaboration

wedding? For some to-be-weds, it’s the ethereal gowns and

with many special partners, to provide design inspiration

sparkling accessories, for others it is the small, thoughtful

for you in your wedding-planning journey.

touches, while others dream of a romantic destination

We’d love to hear about your unique love story and

wedding. However you wish to celebrate your special day,

wedding-planning challenges. Email us to share your

you will find everything you could want, including Houston’s

thoughts, ideas and wedding details.

best wedding venues and experts, within these pages. Yes,

We can’t wait to see you at the I Do! Wedding Soiree on

that’s right: For 32 years we’ve been connecting couples just

Tuesday, Jan. 29 at Corinthian Houston, where you’ll get to

like you to the best of the best in Houston wedding pros.

meet and mingle with Houston’s most talented pros in the

Weddings in Houston magazine is curated locally and filled with all the inspiration and resources you need to plan your wedding, including haute bridal couture, beauty services,

most gorgeous setting imaginable. Until then, happy reading, happy planning, and may every wedding decision you make be guided by…love!

R A D H IK A J . DAY // Publisher & CEO

INSTAGRAM

TWITTER EMAIL:

12 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

FACEBOOK: &

PINTEREST:

@WEDDINGSINHOUSTON @WEDINHOUSTON

INFO@WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM

CONTE NT S //WEDDING PLANNING//

50 CEREMONY + RECEPTION

177

148

DESTINATION WEDDINGS

WEDDING SERVICES

28 : PROPERT Y VALUES Why Hotel Weddings Are Hotter Than Ever

114 : DESTINATION I DO Organize Your Out-Of-Town Wedding From Afar

140 : 6 REASONS TO HIRE A PL ANNER Here’s What To Know About Hiring A Pro

50 : LOVE & LUXURY Modern Romance At The Post Oak Hotel

126 : WATERFRONT WEDDINGS Sunshine And Celebration In Florida And Aruba

152: I DO! WEDDING PL ANNER Keep Your Planning Timeline On Track

66 : CELEBRATE INSIDE & OUT Plan Your Perfect Day, Come Rain Or Come Shine 82 : WHAT’S IN A WEDDING VENUE Features, Facilities And Fee Coverage, Explained 112 : A GAL A CELEBRATION Weddings In Houston’s Annual Gala At The Ballroom At Bayou Place, Featuring Kirksey Gregg Productions

V 2019 spring/summer GUIDES

133 : REHEARSAL DINNER GUIDE Pick the Perfect Place For Food, Drinks And Pre-Wedding Fun 137 : RECEPTION GUIDE Houston’s Hottest Celebration Spots And Destination Wedding Venues

18 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

158 : LICENSE TO WED Your Marriage License Questions, Answered

planning TIMELINE P G 152

CONTE NT S / / W E D D I N G S T Y L E + F I N E R D E TA I L S / /

193 JEWELRY 164 : RULES OF THE RING An Expert Jeweler Talks Rocks 168 : WHAT’S HOT: ENGAGEMENT RINGS Mixed Metals And Precious Stones 173 : WHAT’S HOT: SOMETHING BLUE Stunning Pieces To Complete Your Bridal Look 177 : WHAT’S HOT: HAIR ACCESSORIES Finishing Touches From Combs to Crowns WEDDING ATTIRE 180 : 2019 WEDDING GOWN TRENDS A Bridal Runway Style Report 192 : WHAT’S HOT: BRIDAL BAGS Clutches And Handbags To Hold Every Little Thing 193 : SUMMER HUES Seasonal Inspiration From Todd Fiscus of Todd Events 200 : WHAT’S HOT: SPARKLY SHOES Bring The Bling With High Fashion Footwear 206 : SHIMMER & SHAPE Gown Silhouettes And Styles For Every Body 210 : GORGEOUS GOWNS Style Meets Sophistication At The Post Oak - Featuring The Events Co. 20 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

270 BEAUTY HEALTH + FITNESS 218 : A HEAD FOR ST YLE Haute Hair Accessories And How To Wear Them

282 CAKES + CULINARY 276 : L ATE NIGHT BITES Delicious Options For After-Hours Eats 282 : EPICUREAN DELIGHTS Distinguished Bites By Houston Caterers

224 : SEASONAL BRIDAL SKINC ARE Tips For Great Skin All Year Round

284 : HIP SIPS Signature And Statement Cocktails

226 : WHAT’S HOT: BUSY AS A BEE Sweet And Sassy Gifts for Busy Bridesmaids & Groomsmen

285 : SWEET TOOTH Decadent Desserts And Sweet Side Notes

227 : TEXAS BRIDE Lone Star Luxury At Moffitt Oaks Featuring RaoFactor & Events de Luxe 232 : HAIR & MAKEUP Long Locks, Intricate Up-do’s And Natural-Meets-Glam Makeup 234 : WHAT’S HOT: FOR THE FITNESS LOVER Gifts And Registry Items For Happy, Healthy Lifestyles

FLOWERS, DECOR + RENTALS 242: WEDDING DESIGN DO’S & DON’TS How To Partner With Your Decor Professionals 265 : LOVE - A STORYBOOK WEDDING Indoor Garden Romance At Julia Ideson Library - Featuring Swift + Co. 270 : THE BRIDAL BOUQUET Exquisite Floral Arrangements From Houston's Favorite Florists

302 : C AKE ANYONE? Custom Cakes From Top Houston Bakers

INVITATIONS, REGISTRY + FAVORS 308 : GRACIOUSLY INVITED How To Choose, When To Order And When To Send Stationery 314 : YOU’RE INVITED Set The Tone With The Perfect Invitation 316 : WHAT’S HOT: CREATURE COMFORTS Unwind With Lovely, Luxe Housewares 321 : REGISTER BY ROOM Gift Essentials For Your Newlywed Nest 325 : WHAT’S HOT: FOR THE C HEF Prep, Cook And Serve In Style

CONTE NT S / / D O C U M E N T I N G T H E D AY + J U S T M A R R I E D / /

265

285

MUSIC+ ENTERTAINMENT

337

PHOTOGRAPHY 350 : TIMELESS PHOTOS Wedding Images That Stand The Test Of Time, Guaranteed

330 : THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT Expert Tips For Party-Throwing Perfection

VIDEOGRAPHY

336 : UNEXPECTED ENTERTAINMENT Interactive Fun For All-Night Celebrations

364 : LOVE ON FILM Capture Your Wedding In Moving Pictures

TRANSPORTATION

HONEYMOON & TRAVEL 372 : GOTTA GET AWAY Honeymoon Planning Tips To Make Travel A Breeze 379 : WHAT’S HOT: FOR THE TRAVELER Gift Your Spouse With These Getaway Go-Tos 380 : HOME C HIC HOME A Top Houston Realtor Guides You To Domestic Bliss

342 : YOU’VE ARRIVED Rev Up Your Wedding With These Stylish Options

R E A L

W E D D I N G S

38 : VICTORIA & ERIC

130 : LISA & CHAS

188 : ALICIA & COREY

310 : BIANCA & JARED

44 : RENAE & GARY

144 : ALLIE & KEITH

202 : BAHAREH & JAMES

318 : CASEY & HIREN

76 : COURTNEY & BO

148 : CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL

235 : JENNIFER & DYLAN

326 : MAYLEEN & MICHAEL

250 : STEPHANIE & DREW

337 : NATANIE & MARK

154 : MOLLY & ROB

256 : SARAH & MOHSIN

345 : LAKAYLA & ADRIAN

100 : ABBY & JESSE

159 : RIZZA & JOSH

260 : KIRSTEN & ANDREW

358 : LINDSAY & CYRUS

106 : MARIKA & WILLIAM

169 : SARAH & COLE

294 : SARAH & RYAN

367 : DANIELLE & RYAN

122 : SHAWN & DARLA

176 : CLAUDIA & TROY

298 : LAUREN & TYLER

376 : VIRGINIA & BRANDON

92 : NANCY & ANDREW 96 : LISA & MICHAEL

22 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

& BRIAN

00 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M PH OTO : AM A BY A I S HA / / V ENUE : T H E AS TO RI AN // FLOWE RS & DECOR: PL A N TS N' PETA L S

26 CEREMONY & RECEPTION

114 D E S T I N AT I O N W E D D I N G S

140 WEDDING SERVICES

PLAN NI NG //

S E T T H E S C E N E F O R Y O U R B I G DAY

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 27

Property

VA LU ES

WHAT MAKES HOTELS SUC H POPUL AR SPOTS FOR

"WOW" WEDDINGS, YEAR AFTER YEAR AFTER YEAR? WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;VE GOT THE BREAKDOWN, PLUS ESSENTIAL HOTEL WEDDING PLANNING TIPS!

WRITER NATASHA GARBER LOCATION CORINTHIAN HOUSTON DECOR THE EVENTS CO.

28 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

PHOTO: J OS EP H W ES T P H OTO G R A P H Y

| WEDDING PLANNING

CEREMONY + RECEPTION |

S O M A N Y S I T E S As one of the nation’s top destina-

for your nuptials, select a Houston hotel with ceremony

tion cities, Houston is rich in hotel options for every kind

space, pre-reception cocktail space and a big, beauti-

of couple, and every kind of wedding. You’ll need to

ful ballroom for the main event. Or, ensure beforehand

decide on a few basics before you begin your wedding

that your hotel can “flip” your ceremony space for your

hotel search:

reception, while guests enjoy cocktails and nibbles else-

1. How many people do you plan to invite? Houston’s

where on site.

best hotels can accommodate anywhere from an intimate group of 40 or 50, to 2,000 of your closest friends,

B A N G F O R Y O U R B U C K While the price tag for

family and colleagues. Before you pick your property,

a hotel wedding may seem steep, consider this: Most

figure out how much space you’ll need, so you’re not

hotels include just about everything you need for your

setting yourself up to fall in love with a hotel that’s too

wedding celebration in the booking fee. This generally

small or too big for your group.

covers basic rentals, food and beverage, catering and

2. Which features are most important to you? If an

bar servers, cake cutting, and an in-house coordinator.

expansive city view is at the top of your wish list, pick a

Extras like specialty rentals, bar and food upgrades, and

downtown hotel with floor-to-ceiling windows that offers

basic ceremony decor, can typically be purchased for a

a glimpse of Houston’s iconic skyline. If you crave a

reasonable fee. Some hotels even provide in-house floral

variety of international cuisine for your culturally specific

services and wedding-cake design. Those that don’t

celebration, choose a hotel with experience in authentic

usually will provide a list of preferred vendors who can

global dishes or a willingness to let you bring in outside

work with you to create centerpieces, design and prepare

specialty foods, as needed. If you want a room that

your cake and specialty desserts, and outfit your event

needs hardly any extra decor, pick a hotel with excep-

with fun entertainment options like photo booths, cocktail-

tional interior design and lavish accents, rather than one

hour entertainment and cigar-lounge setup. Some hotels

with a conference-style, blank-slate ballroom.

even have on-site spas and salons that can handle all of

3. Do you want your ceremony and reception both to

your day-of beauty prep, and on-site restaurants and bars

be held in one place? If all-in-one accessibility is key

with private dining for pre- and post-wedding parties.

30 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

| WEDDING PLANNING

CEREMONY + RECEPTION |

G U E S T A C C O M M O D A T I O N S One of the biggest benefits of having a hotel wedding is being able to have all, or most, of your guests, stay on site. Which means that guests can spend more time enjoying the amenities and bountiful surroundings of your selected hotel, and less time dealing with transportation and logistics. Talk to your hotel catering manager or on-site wedding coordinator about booking a block of rooms, several months out from your big day, and circulate that information to invited guests via your wedding website, invitation or save-the-date. While room block rates typically will be offered at a reduced price for your wedding guests, be sure you understand the small print regarding deposits and cancellation policies, which can be strict. And don’t forget to ask about extras like in-room amenities baskets, printed schedules and maps of local attractions, to make your visiting guests’ experience one they’ll always remember.

32 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

| WEDDING PLANNING

CEREMONY + RECEPTION |

T O - B E - W E D T R E A T S Most Houston wedding hotels offer awesome amenities to the wedding couple, some on a complimentary basis, and others for a fee. These may include designated prewedding bride and groom preparation areas, where you can fete your wedding party with ample dressing and hair-and-makeup prep space, pre-wedding snacks and drinksâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;even de-stress diversions like music, billiards and games. Many hotels will throw in wedding-night accommodations for the newlywed couple, with in-room gifts such as chocolate-covered strawberries, Champagne, or breakfast in bed. Which means you can dance all night, soak in every unforgettable moment of your special day, and exit with a quick elevator ride to the luxurious accommodations that await you and your brand-new spouse.

DO: ASK FOR EXTRAS While hotels charge for many upgrades and amenities, they are often willing, and happy, to offer complimentary goodies to couples who are spending a significant amount of money on their wedding, and bringing in a large group of visiting guests. P H OTO : CO M P O S UR E S T UDI O S // VE NUE : T H E PO S T OAK HOTEL

34 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

| WEDDING PLANNING

CEREMONY + RECEPTION |

DO: COLLAB WITH CATERING Work with your hotel’s catering manager and chef to come up with personalized items for your menu—perhaps hors d’oeuvre based on something you both love at your favorite restaurant, or late-night cookies, baked with your grandma’s beloved recipe. And don’t forget signature sips: Everyone loves these custom cocktails, which can be tray-passed or served at the bar, with cute corresponding signage, of course!

P HOTO: COM P OS UR E S T UDI O S // V E NUE : T H E PO S T OAK HOTEL / / PL A N NER: GRAYHOUSE EVEN TS ATEL IER

36 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

10.06.18

MR.& MR S. //VICTORIA & ERIC //

COUPLE: Victoria Ramirez & Eric Flores | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 220 | WEDDING COLORS: Burgundy, Blue, Ivory & Gold VENUE: Corinthian Houston | COORDINATION, FLOWERS, DECOR, RENTALS & LIGHTING: The Events Co. | CATERING: Jackson & Company CAKE: Cakes By Gina | BRIDAL SUITE: The Post Oak Hotel | BRIDESMAIDSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; HAIR & MAKEUP: Kiss And Makeup Houston | HONEYMOON: Hawaii

PHOTOGRAPHY: Joseph West Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Antonio Von Marrok / Michael Costello / Sposa Mia / Cartier / Le Vintage Photo Booth

Spinning Leaf Films / Tony Perez Band / Papered Wonders

38 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

HER FAVORITE SIP:

titoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & soda

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

chocolate-chip cookies

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

on the couch cuddled up with my husband watching football

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

how generous he is

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

dos equis

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

cheesecake

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

cuddling with my wife and watching movies WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

that she challenges me and inspires me to push myself every day

40 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

“The proposal was absolutely spectacular,” says Victoria of the moment, two days before Christmas, 2017, when Eric asked her to be his wife. “Red velvet curtains covered all four walls of the room. There were big red roses and floating candles, with a red carpet in the center of the room. A huge ‘Marry Me’ sign made out of red roses was hanging from the ceiling!” After Victoria said, “Yes,” sparklers went off behind the couple and 2002 Dom Perignon was popped, as live saxophone music played in the background. With a proposal that fabulous, you may think the wedding that followed would have to be equally amazing. And you’d be right. The couple, both Houston-based attorneys, said their vows at the regal Corinthian Houston, where lush royal-blue draping, a floral chandelier hung with sparkling crystals, and an opulent gold aisle—a magnificent roomscape designed by The Events Co.—brought warmth and elegance to the couple’s fall celebration. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed chilled tequila shots served from an eight-foot-tall ice sculpture, then a seated dinner of beef tenderloin from Jackson & Company. A nine-foot-tall shimmering fondant cake with hand-painted gold trim and hundreds of handmade sugar flowers, all courtesy of Cakes By Gina, made for a decadent, dramatic and delicious dessert. Says the thrilled bride: “Our wedding was such a dream!”

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 41

REAL WEDDINGS

10.20.18

MR.& MR S. / / R E NA E & G A RY / /

COUPLE: Renae Cassam & Gary Leach I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 140 I WEDDING COLORS: White, Blush, Gray & Gold VENUE: The Post Oak Hotel | COORDINATION: Grayhouse Events Atelier | CAKE: Susie’s Cakes & Confections | WEDDING DRESS: Joan Pillow Bridal Salon BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids | GROOM’S WEDDING BAND: Zadok Jewelers | LIGHTING, SOUND & SPECIAL EFFECTS: Bright Star Productions HONEYMOON: Mexico

PHOTOGRAPHY: Composure Studios CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Secret Floral Garden / DGZ Invitations And More / The Pink Palette / DM Diamonds / David Caceres / PRP Entertainment

44 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

champagne

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blueberry pie

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

trail riding at huntsville, ipic movie and saturday dinner at home

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his thoughtfulness and kind heart

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

champagne

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

gelato

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

trail riding at huntsville, ipic movie and saturday dinner at home

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her loving heart and kindness

46 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

When their planned travel to San Sebastian, Spain, had to be postponed due to Hurricane Harvey, Renae suggested that they wait until the following spring to make the trip. But Gary insisted that they go sooner. And on their second night in the seaside resort town, at her favorite restaurant, Renae discovered why: “Gary was extremely quiet on the way to the restaurant. I thought he was jet-lagged. When we arrived, they took us to our favorite table, where two glasses of Champagne were waiting. I thought, `What a nice touch´.” Then she noticed the tears in Gary’s eyes, and heard the question he had been waiting to ask. “Needless to say, I was shocked, and couldn’t eat a thing,” Renae recounts. “We stayed up all night texting family and friends our wonderful news.” As both of them are well known in their fields—the groom owns a respected Houston construction firm, the bride is the general manager of Trellis Spa at The Houstonian Hotel—the couple opted for an intimate church ceremony (the bride’s 81-year-old father walked her down the aisle), and 140-guest celebration, surrounded by family and close friends. “The reception at The Post Oak Hotel was sexy, with live music, lots of great energy in the room, and a fun, festive feel,” Renae says. “Our first dance was so special. We took 10 weeks of dance lessons prior, so we both were relieved after a perfect performance. We did not want it to end!”

48 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

ON HER: INES DI SANTO GOWN, MARIA ELENA HEADPIECE: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON JEWLERY: TENENBAUM JEWELERS // ON HIM: SUIT, SHOES, SHIRT, TIE, POCKET SQUARE: SUITSUPPLY 50 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

LO VE LOVE &

Luxury

WEDDING VENUE + CAKE: THE POST OAK HOTEL / DESIGN, FLOWERS, DECOR + RENTALS: THE EVENTS CO. / TABLETOP: BERINGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

P HOTOGRAPHY: LARRY FAGALA / STYLING: SUMMAR SALAH / MAKEUP: VCI ARTISTS AMBER LIVINGSTON, ANNA KALITA / HAIR: VCI ARTIST DENNIS CLENDENNEN

| WEDDING PLANNING

CEREMONY + RECEPTION |

ON HER - NAEEM KHAN GOWN: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON

ON HER - LACE SHIRT ,JACKET, PANTS: MARCHESA NECKLACE: SARARA COUTURE

GIANVITO ROSSI SHOES: NEIMAN MARCUS // JEWELRY: TENENBAUM JEWELERS

RENE CAOVILLA SHOES: NEIMAN MARCUS

GUCCI SUNGLASSES: 29 NORTH AT THE POST OAK HOTEL ON HIM - SUIT, SHOES, POCKET SQUARE: SUITSUPPLY WATCH: TENENBAUM JEWELERS

52 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

ON HI M - THEORY SUIT, SHIRT: NEIMAN MARCUS // SHOES: SUITSUPPLY GLOBE TROTTER LUGGAGE, KAREN MABON SCARF: 29 NORTH AT THE POST OAK HOTEL

LO C AT I O N : H B A R AT T H E P O S T OA K H OT E L O N H E R - N A E E M K H A N G OW N : J OA N P I L LOW B R I DA L S A LO N G I A N V I TO RO S S I S H O E S : N E I M A N M A RC U S J E W E L RY: T E N E N B AU M J E W E L E R S / / O N H I M - S U I T, S H O E S : S U I T S U P P LY WATC H : T E N E N B AU M J E W E L E R S / / P O C K E T S Q UA R E : N E I M A N M A RC U S

CHIC Urban

J O N AT H A N S I M K H A I S W I M S U I T: MAISON JOLIE R E N E C AOV I L L A S H O E S , MONIQUE LHUILLIER COV E R U P : N E I M A N M A RC U S J E W E L RY: T E N E N B AU M J E W E L E R S G U C C I G L A S S E S : 2 9 N O RT H AT T H E P O S T OA K H OT E L

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RICHARD FLOWERS

THE EVENTS CO.

ALL IN THE DETAILS “We wanted to convey the luxury of the building, the pops of bold color found in the artwork selected by hotel owner Tilman Fertitta, and a little bit of the fantasy one experiences upon arrival at the property. The wedding reception we created was inspired by a question we get from many of our brides: ‘How can I use the color blue?’ So many couples love the idea of rich, dark blues, but are not sure how to use them. We selected a lush navy crepe drape, a custom blue watercolor dance floor, blue-agate geode table numbers, and just a touch of antique blue hydrangea. We contrasted the blues with flowers in a soft, sweet color palette, and accented the look with a mixture of metals.”

LOCATION: BLOOM & BEE AT THE POST OAK HOTEL ON HER - ALICE + OLIVIA SWEATER, VALENTINO SKIRT, BALENCIAGA SHOES, EDIE PARKER CLUTCH: NEIMAN MARCUS JEWELRY: TENENBAUM JEWELERS ON HIM - THEORY SHIRT: NEIMAN MARCUS JOHN VARVATOS PANTS, INIS MEÁIN SWEATER, STUBBS & WOOTTON LOAFERS: 29 NORTH AT THE POST OAK HOTEL BREITLING WATCH: TENENBAUM JEWELERS

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 55

LOCATION: BOUCHÉE PATISSERIE AT THE POST OAK HOTEL // CHINA: BERING’S OPPOSITE PAGE, L-R: 1. VALENTINO GOWN, SOPHIA WEBSTER SHOES: NEIMAN MARCUS EARRINGS, RING: 29 NORTH AT THE POST OAK HOTEL 2. LE SPOSE DI GIO GOWN: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON // EARRINGS: 29 NORTH AT THE POST OAK HOTEL // BALENCIAGA SHOES: NEIMAN MARCUS 3. VALENTINO GOWN, RENE CAOVILLA SHOES: NEIMAN MARCUS NECKLACES, BRACELET, RING: 29 NORTH AT THE POST OAK HOTEL

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The

BRIDE TO BE. ROMONA KEVEZA GOWN: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON JEWELRY: ZADOK JEWELERS W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 59

BALL ROOM

The

O P P O SI T E P A G E , L O C A T I O N : T H E PO ST O AK H O T E L PRE SIDEN TIA L S UITE / / ON HER - MA RCHES A GOWN / / MA RIA EL ENA HEA DP IE CE : J OA N P I LLOW BRI DAL SALO N / / O N H I M - SHIRT, BOW TIE: SUITSU PPLY / / BA RB ETTI MIL A N O TUXED O: VERSION E

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CAKE: THE POST OAK HOTEL // TABLETOP: BERINGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

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ON HER - REEM ACRA G OWN , MA RIA EL EN A HEA D PIECE: JOAN P I L LOW BR I DAL SALO N E ARRI N GS: NE I MA N MA RCUS / / ON HIM - SHIRT & BOW TIE: SUITS UPPLY / / BA RB ETTI MIL A N O TU X EDO : VER SI O NE

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/ / C E L E B R AT E //

INSI DE

OUT

O U T D O O R W E D D I N G C E L E B R AT I O N S C A N B E A R I S K Y P R O P O S I T I O N F O R H O U S T O N C O U P L E S . BUT WITH THE RIGHT VENUE, AND OPTIONS FOR BOTH AL FRESCO AND CLIMATE-CONTROLLED REVELRY, YOU CAN ENJOY NATUREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BACKDROP, WITH A REASSURING BACKUP.

WRITER NATASHA GARBER : PHOTO JESSICA FREY PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATION MOFFITT OAKS : DECOR RAOFACTOR : COORDINATION EVENTS DE LUXE

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S H E L T E R F R O M T H E S T O R M Let’s face it, there’s no such thing as a sure thing when it comes to Houston’s notoriously fickle weather. That means you probably should not set out to plan your perfect, picturesque outdoor wedding celebration at a venue that has only outdoor space. Fortunately, almost all Houston- and Texas Hill Country-area venues that offer outdoor event areas have ample indoor space as well. When visiting prospective venues, check out the outdoor area—whether it’s the gazebo where you’ll say your “I do’s,” or the deck where you and your guests will sip postceremony cocktails—and note its proximity and accessibility to the indoor area. Is there a covered walkway for guests to make their way inside, should it start to rain while they are outdoors? Does the venue have French doors or another type of amply sized entrance to allow for a crowd to move through? Is the reception ballroom located a quarter mile away from the lawn where you’ll gather to say your vows, and if so, are there golf carts or other vehicles available to transport guests to shelter? Also make sure that the indoor space will be fully P H OTO : A M A BY A ISH A / / LOC ATION: CORINTHIAN HOUS TON

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ready—rentals set up, decor in place—to welcome your wedding group,

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should you need to put your “Plan B” into action at the last minute. Talk to the venue’s on-site coordinator about what they have planned for indoor contingency, and how they plan to get guests there comfortably, and get that plan in writing, so there are no surprises on your wedding day (rainbows aside). And let your guests know that some or all of your wedding events will take place outdoors, so they can dress for the occasion, with the most appropriate footwear. C R E A T U R E C O M F O R T S And speaking of making your guests comfy, there are so many sweet ways to make your outdoor wedding more fun for your gathered friends and family! Whatever the weather, get guests in a celebratory mood, and keep them hydrated, by serving lemonade, sparkling water, and low-alcohol drinks (spritzers, mimosas, bellinis) prior to your ceremony—in pretty vessels,

//STOP THE SINK// Got grass, gravel or stones at your outdoor venue? Help your high-heelwearing guests avoid sinking—or worse, stumbling—on these tricky surfaces by providing them with heel protectors. These discreet pop-on guards are almost invisible, and feature tiny treads that grip the ground, no matter what kind of surface.

with striped paper straws and fresh herb or fruit garnishes, if that’s how you roll. Warm day? Perhaps you want to set out baskets of colorful hand fans on those pre-ceremony bars, and invite guests to help themselves. Another special outdoor-wedding idea we adore: Set up a greenery wall as a backdrop for “step-and-repeat”-type photos and selfies. The backdrop of leaves will perfectly capture the outdoor feel of your event, and make the photo subjects’ hair, clothes and makeup totally pop in pics.

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W E A T H E R P R O O F P L A N S Even on a relatively nice Houston day, your outdoor wedding ceremony and/or reception likely will contend with a few climate-related challenges. Our top advice: Have bug spray on hand. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance any time of year in Houston, but especially during the warmer months (which are, like…

// CALL AN AUDIBLE // Wind, even a soft gulf breeze, can have a big impact on guests’ ability to hear what’s going on at the altar. While you might not love the idea of wearing clip mikes as you say your vows, these little high-tech wonders can make all the difference for your guests, who have come from far and wide to see and hear the ritual of your blessed union. Ask your DJ or entertainment company to bring them; they’ll be happy to oblige.

most of them). Provide bug spray for guests in discreet baskets or containers adjacent to your ceremony seating, and around your outdoor celebration space, but away from food and drink areas. You also can ask your venue to have the wedding area sprayed with safe, non-toxic insect repellent prior to your event. Take care of your hair. Houston’s humidity can wreak havoc on even

the glossiest locks. To avoid stray stragglers, wilting up-do’s, and the dreaded “frizz halo,” make sure your stylist comes equipped with her best anti-frizz products, and keep extra supplies around for touchups as the festivities, and photo-ops, carry on.

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Umbrellas are your friends. Often, the rain that comes your way on your wedding day may be little more than a passing shower. In this case, or in the case of strong sunshine and a lack of shade, umbrellas and parasols can make all the difference, and allow the ceremony show to go on, just the way you’ve always imagined it. Plus, you can pick umbrellas or parasols in your wedding color palette, or customize them as take-home favors. And that’s super cute. Just make sure your setup space has plenty of room to comfortably accommodate guests and their overhead accessories.

/ / H AV E YO U R C A K E / / ...and eat it too! Dark icing colors, cream-cheese frosting and elaborate sugar flowers are no-no’s for warmweather wedding cakes. Instead, choose heartier fondant, and flowers made with edible wafer paper. Or, better yet, go for an on-trend “naked cake,” and avoid stressing over melting icing altogether.

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REAL WEDDINGS

08.19.17

MR.& MR S. //COURTNEY & BO//

COUPLE: Courtney Cornelius & Robert “Bo” Hughes I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 285 I WEDDING COLORS: Green, White & Neutrals VENUE: Julia Ideson Library I CATERER: Café Natalie Catering I WEDDING DRESS: Parvani Vida Bridal & Formal I REHEARSAL DINNER: Hotel ZaZa Museum District HONEYMOON: Greece & Croatia PHOTOGRAPHY: Kelly Hornberger Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Events By Sarah / The Senterpiece / Adorne Artistry / Hoffman Diamonds Quenton Elliott Jewelers / Three Brothers Bakery / Hot Sauce ATX / Luxe Films

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

mezcal margarita

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

going for a long run, brunching, and being with friends and family

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his infectious chuckleâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;there is no other laugh out there like it

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

scotch

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

cheesecake

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

duck hunting

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her thirst for trying new things and looking for fun

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REAL WEDDINGS

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REAL WEDDINGS

Bo and Courtney successfully navigated years of friendship, then long-distance courtship, until, on a brisk winter New York City evening, Bo rented out the entire USS Intrepid (a special location to them both) to ask Courtney to be his wife, surrounded by their loved ones, with the sunset skyline as a backdrop. Their love story began its next chapter among the vintage books and painted cathedral ceilings of Houston’s historic Julia Ideson Library, for a truly unique reception. “We wanted to play up the library setting, and had beautiful bound books, purchased by family and friends, on every table, surrounded by gorgeous greenery and white flowers,” Courtney recounts. The menu of upscale comfort food by Café Natalie Catering featured three-cheese baked macaroni, arugulaand-goat-cheese salad, steak, and mini cheeseburgers as late-night snacks. The “absurdly fun” party also featured a live country-music performance by Bo’s cousin Owen Temple and a memorable sparkler exit, for which the bride paired her custom bodysuit and dress from Parvani Vida Bridal & Formal with a custom DIY jacket that proudly proclaimed her as the new “Mrs. Hughes.”

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P H OTO : COM P OS UR E S T U DI O S

// W H AT ʼS I N A W E D D I N G //

VE NUE H E R E ’ S W H AT Y O U C A N E X P E C T F R O M D I F F E R E N T T Y P E S O F W E D D I N G V E N U E S , WHETHER HOTEL, RANCH, CASTLE OR CLUB!

PLANNING GRAYHOUSE EVENTS ATELIER : LOCATION THE POST OAK HOTEL

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How many people do you want to invite to your wedding? What season will you wed in? What style of wedding do you desire? What items will be covered in your venue fee? These are the questions you’ll need to ask yourself as you start down the path to “I do!” And these are the features, services and options you can expect to get from these four types of wedding venues: HOTELS

A hotel is an excellent option for the busiest to-be-wed couples, those who

want the convenience of almost everything included in their wedding package, and those who wish to have visiting guests stay close to the wedding festivities. If you’re searching out a wedding hotel in Houston, you’ll have your choice of chic boutique hotels, iconic luxury properties and popular conference-style hotels with high-capacity ballrooms and event spaces. The style of hotel wedding you want—lavish and glamorous, relaxed and lounge-y, edgy and sophisticated, classic and formal—will determine the property you pick for your event. Beyond that, you’ll have some flexibility in what you want to customize or upgrade, and what you want to take as-is. Most importantly, you’ll have experienced hotel catering and event management staff at your side, guiding you as you plan your wedding, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly on your big day. PHOTO : B I YA N I P HOTO GRAPH Y LO C AT I O N : T H E W E S T IN M E M O RIAL CIT Y

//HOTELS// WHAT’S T YPICALLY INCLUDED Food & Beverage Basic Chairs, Tables & Linens Tabletop Items Basic Lighting Service Staff Valet & Self Parking WHAT YOU MAY UPGRADE OR BRING IN Specialty Rentals Flowers & Decor Entertainment Specialty Lighting Specialty Ethnic Catering (ask the venue) Cake

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C O U N T R Y C L U B S Country clubs abound in sprawling, golf-loving Houston. And many families’ lives center around “the club,” where they’ve spent hours hitting the links, lounging by the pool, playing tennis and gathering for family meals and milestone events. If this sounds like your family, then consider adding one more milestone event—your most important one! Having your wedding at the club means being taken care of by people you know and who know you and your family. It also means treating your guests to gracious service, good food, elegant surroundings and lovely, landscaped views. Many country clubs also are set up for outdoor ceremonies and/or cocktail receptions, and provide essential services such as valet parking, cake cutting and private quarters for pre-wedding prep.

P H OTO : TO NY H O US TON LO C AT IO N: RAV E NE AUX COUNTRY CLUB // DECOR: EVENTS DE LUX E

//COUNTRY CLUBS// WHAT’S T YPICALLY INCLUDED Food & Beverage Basic Chairs, Tables & Linens Tabletop Items Basic Lighting Service Staff Ceremony Set Up Valet & Self Parking WHAT YOU MAY UPGRADE OR BRING IN Flowers & Decor Entertainment Specialty Lighting Specialty Ethnic Catering (ask the venue) Specialty Rentals Cake

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RANCHES & ESTATES If you’ve always fantasized about a rustic-elegant country wedding, with an al fresco sunset ceremony, a laid-back cocktail hour and a big ol’ barn reception, you’re in luck, Houston to-be-wed! A short drive from Downtown will land you and your guests in a lovely spot for boho-glam nuptial festivities, where gracious hospitality and endless blue skies are the order of the day, and lanterns, string lights and sparklers illuminate the night. So get out those mason jars, saddle up those “beer burros,” slip into your cowboy boots, and gather up your loved ones, for a destination-style country wedding at a destination comfortably close to your Houston home.

PH OTO: SV E TL A N A PH OTOGRAP H Y L OC ATI ON : OL D GL ORY RA N C H

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/ / R A N C H E S & E S TAT E S / / WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S T YPICALLY INCLUDED Basic Chairs, Tables & Linens Tabletop Items Basic Lighting Parking WHAT YOU MAY UPGRADE OR BRING IN Food & Beverage Flowers, Decor & Rentals Entertainment Specialty Lighting Cake

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MANORS & VILLAS Houston is home

//MANORS & VILLAS//

to many private event venues that make couples and their guests feel as if they’ve been transported to another time and place. From Mediterranean-style villas to Mexicanstyle haciendas to Antebellum-style manor houses, these special sites set the tone for celebration from the moment guests arrive. If you’re dreaming of a theme wedding, or one

Tabletop Items Basic Lighting Parking WHAT YOU MAY UPGRADE OR BRING IN

that offers an alternative to the typical hotel

Food & Beverage

or country club ballroom setup, a unique

Flowers, Decor & Rentals

private event venue may be exactly what PH OTO: KELLY HORNBERGER LO C ATIO N: SANDLEWOOD M ANOR

WHAT’S T YPICALLY INCLUDED Basic Chairs, Tables & Linens

you’re looking for.

Entertainment Specialty Lighting Cake

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REAL WEDDINGS

06.23.18

MR.& MR S. / / NA N C Y & A N D R E W / /

PHOTOGRAPHY: Pedigo Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Mia Bridal Couture / Linda’s Couture Alterations

Jonny Black Productions / Avalon Music / Reeves Texas Media / Events By Sarah

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

vanilla latte with coconut milk HER FAVORITE SWEET:

wedding cake

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

brunch with andrew and friends

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

he’s tall, dark and handsome…and he cooks

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

old fashioned

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

cheesecake

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

brunch with nancy and friends

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

she’s beautiful, smart, kind and funny

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REAL WEDDINGS

A dating-app conversation in May 2015 soon led to dinner in person for Nancy and Andrew. “And from there, we were inseparable,” Nancy says. A summer 2017 trip to Caneel Bay in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where Andrew had spent summer vacations as a child, held a surprise in store for Nancy—a marriage proposal, followed immediately by festivities with Andrew’s mother and stepfather who were on the island to celebrate their own 20th wedding anniversary. “Since I was marrying into an Italian family, I chose an Italian inspiration for my wedding that was comfortable, yet elegant for a summer evening,” Nancy says. She notes that she loved “waking up the morning of the wedding and knowing it was our wedding day, and feeling excited for the day to unfold.” Among her favorite wedding memories is “the moment following the vow ceremony, when our officiant asked us to turn and look out at our audience and see the friends and family who were so special to us.” And, of course, “being on the dance floor with Andrew and our friends—especially the last dance of the night with confetti swirling everywhere!”

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REAL WEDDINGS

03.16.18

MR.& MR S. // LISA & MICHAEL//

PHOTOGRAPHY: The Ramseys Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: A Splendid Event & Co. / Chair Covers Nʼ More / Word Of Mouth Sweets

Simple Beauty Artistry / Jamie Lewis Artistry

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

gin & tonic

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

carrot cake

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

enjoying a mimosa at our favorite brunch spot

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his sense of humor and ability to always put a smile on my face

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

old fashioned

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

lemon-blueberry cake

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

at the park with lisa and our dog, moose

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her spontaneity

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REAL WEDDINGS

Knowing that Lisa had a “special place in her heart” for Disney, Michael chose Disney World’s beloved “Cinderella’s Castle” as the setting for his marriage proposal. It was an “incredibly special” moment, in Lisa’s words. For their early spring wedding, Lisa explains, “We wanted the day to be centered around celebrating the lives we had built together, and enjoying the company of our friends and families.” They selected French-Mediterraneaninspired venue The Gallery as their wedding site, noting, “We found a beautiful feature on The Gallery in Weddings in Houston, and fell in love. We enjoyed getting to hear advice from Paula, the venue’s owner, in the magazine feature, and we knew how much heart she had poured into the venue.” As for the couple, they poured their own hearts into their special day, with a sunshine-filled outdoor ceremony, and a reception that featured a photo booth, a live event painter, and plenty of opportunities for conversation, high-energy dancing, and memory-making: “I am so lucky to be able to look back on our wedding day knowing that we took the time to enjoy the entire day, each other, and our families, who made it all happen.”

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REAL WEDDINGS

09.01.18

MR.& MR S. //ABBY & JESSE //

PHOTOGRAPHY: John Cain Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Little Nell / d’Elissious / Carolyn’s Flowers / Premier Rentals

La Tavola Linens / Alchemy Concert Systems / Casa De Novia / Diamond World / Cartier / Red Mountain Production

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HER FAVORITE SIP:

topo chico, or clase azul tequila on the rocks with jalapeño and lime juice HER FAVORITE SWEET:

peach cobbler with vanilla ice cream HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

brunching with friends and playing with puppies

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his thoughtfulness and his selflessness

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

old fashioned

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

crème brûlée

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

watching football or hiking

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her love for life and for her family

REAL WEDDINGS

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REAL WEDDINGS

Abby and Jesse met at a yacht festival in Croatia, traveled back and forth between Houston (where she lived) and Boston (where he lived) for a year, and, when it came time to wed, chose Aspen—where her family has traveled every summer for the past 15 years. “With Jesse being from Maine originally, we felt it was the perfect place to ‘meet in the middle,’” Abby says. The pair’s nuptial celebration started with a church ceremony in town, followed by an elegant but relaxed reception in a ski lodge at the top of Ajax Mountain. “We were able to turn it into a romantic reception venue using the breathtaking mountain views as the perfect scenic backdrop,” and white, green and pale pink flowers in an “organic, romantic and feminine” design scheme, she says. “We tied in some of our stationery, and our monogram, into the reception design as well. I love texture, so we had a mix of champagne-velvet and Lucite chairs, and a ton of flowers and greenery.” Marrying in Aspen, surrounded by her closest friends and family, made for beautiful memories, Abby says. “It really does feel like a second home, and definitely has a special place in my heart.”

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REAL WEDDINGS

05.05.18

MR.& MR S. //MARIKA

WILLIAM //

PHOTOGRAPHY: Akil Bennett Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: DGZ Invitations And More

Secret Floral Garden / Ivory Bridal Atelier / Therapy Hair Studio / Diamond World / Empire 6 Band / 31 Films

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

margarika (tequila, soda, splash of grapefruit & lime) HER FAVORITE SWEET:

pinkberry

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

bounce class, brunch, then date night with william

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his kind and generous heart, and his curly hair

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

miller lite

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

red velvet cake

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

with my wife, or out on the golf course

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her confidence and ability to make people happy instantlyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;she has a contagious spirit

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REAL WEDDINGS

“It was so special, just the two of us,” says Marika of William’s proposal in a beautifully decorated room at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa. “The rest of our families surprised us by traveling into town for the occasion, so we all met after the proposal for a wonderful dinner together.” While planning her marriage celebration, “Everyone kept asking me what the ‘theme’ was, and I was always confused by the question,” the bride says. “Our ‘theme’ was…wedding!” Her vision: white flowers, a white dance floor and white table linens, “and Jim Gray [of Grayhouse Events Atelier] made all of those dreams come to life.” At the end of the post-ceremony cocktail hour, the band played “In The Mood” as the guests were seated for dinner. “They learned the song specifically for us—such a treat!” Marika says. As the evening’s festivities wound down, “I requested ‘This Will Be’ as the last song, and everyone gathered around William and me and tossed gold confetti as we danced. All of the guests then exited the ballroom for us to have a private dance with the band. They played ‘Midnight Train to Georgia’ (our favorite duet karaoke song) and this was all a surprise to William! It was so special to have the ballroom to ourselves, dancing on the fallen confetti, and just having a minute to soak in all the emotions of the evening before our departure.”

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 109

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/WEDDINGS / I N

THE GALA EVENT OF 2018 On a balmy September evening, Weddings in Houston partners and Houston wedding industry pros gathered for an evening of relaxation at The Ballroom at Bayou Place, exquisitely decorated by Kirksey Gregg Productions. Guests enjoyed live music, dancing, fine food, cake and desserts, cigar samplings, top-shelf cocktails and a custom “bubbly bar” (with live action bubbles!), all set against the sparkling Houston skyline. Weddings in Houston thanks our event partners, vendors and friends for a memorable night!

H O U S T O N

S E P T . 1 3 / 2 0 1 8

VENUE, CATERING & BAR: THE BALLROOM AT BAYOU PLACE / FLOWERS, DECOR & RENTALS: KIRKSEY GREGG PRODUCTIONS / PHOTOGRAPHY: CIVIC PHOTOS ENTERTAINMENT: LG EVENT ENTERTAINMENT & PRODUCTION / CAKE: SUSIE’S CAKES & CONFECTIONS / DESSERT BARS: CAKES BY GINA, EDIBLE DESIGNS PHOTO BOOTH: OH SNAP! SELFIE PHOTO BOOTH / CIGARS: RIVER OAKS ROYAL CIGARS / COCKTAIL HOUR MUSIC: DAVID CACERES JAZZ TRIO

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CEREMONY + RECEPTION |

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DESTINATION WEDDINGS |

// D E S T I NAT I O N //

TA K E T H E G U E S S W O R K O U T O F D E S T I N AT I O N W E D D I N G P L A N N I N G W I T H T H E S E TIPS FOR COORDINATING YOUR OUT-OF-TOWN FESTIVITIES FROM AFAR.

WRITER NATASHA GARBER

PHOTO: COURTESY OF ARUBA TOURISM AUTHORITY

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| WEDDING PLANNING

DESTINATION WEDDINGS |

want to spend time with all of your guests if you’re planning a

you’ve always dreamed of a

multi-day nuptial celebration in a distant locale—they’ve traveled

destination wedding, it’s time

far to be with you, after all. Immediate family, close members of

to make your dream come

your extended family, and your dearest friends, all should be a part

true. To start your voyage to

of your once-in-a-lifetime wedding. So do make sure these loved

“I do,” sit down with your

ones will be able to travel for your event. Keeping your guest list

fiancé and figure out where

under 100 can help ensure that your destination wedding is a relax-

you want to tie the knot. If

ing, joyful, unforgettable experience, for everyone.

WHERE

COMPOSURE STUDIOS

WED

an Italian villa wedding or Caribbean resort wedding is

H O W T O P L A N First and foremost, hire a wedding plan-

your fantasy, and the people you love most are likely to be able to

ner. A local Houston planner with destination wedding experience

make such a significant journey for your nuptials, then do it. Con-

—and, possibly, vendor and venue contacts in your chosen

cerned that elderly guests or those without the financial means to

destination—will know exactly how and when to organize

make that kind of trip won’t be able to attend? Consider the Texas

tours (in-person or virtual), tastings, vendor contracts and lo-

Hill Country, Galveston Island or even rustic, picturesque Tomball,

cal activities in your destination area. And she or he will

Conroe, Hockley or The Woodlands, for a destination-ambiance

make sure you’re prepared with those items you may not

weekend wedding, at an accessible destination, very close to home.

have thought of yourself, including travel visas and/or inoculations if needed, marriage license requirements, cultural ritu-

W H O M T O I N V I T E If you’re opting for a destination wed-

als and local restrictions, and hotel room blocks for traveling

ding, you’re probably going to need to limit your guest count. Man-

guests. Your planner will keep you organized, manage your

aging a huge group in a faraway place can be difficult, especially

budget, and help you adhere to your timeline, while reducing

when it comes to pre-wedding events, excursions and activities.

your stress, mitigating liability, and acting as your go-between,

Plus, destination venues tend to have more limited capacity than

confidante and collaborator—all of which are especially

big city hotel ballrooms and event facilities. Also, you’re going to

essential if you are planning to wed away from home.

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| WEDDING PLANNING

DESTINATION WEDDINGS |

DESTINATION WEDDINGS: WHAT TO DO & WHEN 9 - 11 M O N T H S O U T

•Decide on a region or location where you want to wed.

•Send out save-the-dates. This step is especially important for destination

•Hire a Houston wedding planner who has expertise in destination

weddings, since your guests will need to make arrangements for time off

wedding planning.

work, and travel, well ahead of your event.

•Schedule your venue tours. If you are planning to wed overseas or

•Reserve a room block at one or more hotels in your location. Depending

at a location that is quite far away, plan at least one trip to visit your

on the size and financial situation of your guests, you may want to book a

destination and view several venue options at once, and bring your

room block at your wedding hotel, inn, ranch or resort, and at a nearby,

planner with you. Make sure to schedule menu tastings, if possible,

more budget-friendly property, to give your guests choices.

since you might not get another chance before your big day.

•Start planning your other wedding-related events. Look into local group

•Work out your budget; be sure to include line items for both pre-

activities and restaurants in your location, and determine if you want to

wedding and wedding travel, for yourselves, and any other vendors

have a rehearsal dinner, sightseeing excursion, golf outing and/or other

or guests for whom you will be covering travel costs.

activities at your destination wedding.

•Determine if you will need passports and/or visas for your wedding

•Create your wedding website, and include information about your desti-

destination.

nation, local accommodations, passport/visa needs, and any other impor-

•Create your guest list.

tant details your guests will need to help them plan their trip.

•Research marriage requirements in your destination locale.

•Determine whom you want in your bridal party and “propose” to your

}

12 + M O N T H S O U T

find out more about destination weddings @

{

WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM

11 8 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

bridesmaids with a custom invitation or special gift. •Meet with your wedding planner to start selecting vendors, both those you will hire in your destination location, and those you may wish to bring with you from Houston. •Book your wedding photographer. •Purchase your wedding dress.

| WEDDING PLANNING

12 0 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

DESTINATION WEDDINGS |

| WEDDING PLANNING

PHOTO: COMPOSURE STUDIOS

DESTINATION WEDDINGS |

PHOTO: COMPOSURE STUDIOS

DESTINATION WEDDINGS: WHAT TO DO & WHEN 6-8 MONTHS OUT

1-2 WEEKS OUT

•Take engagement photos. This is a good opportunity to get to

•Put together your packing list. Pick up any remaining sup-

know your photographer better, and to capture great images at

plies or items you will need (i.e. electrical adapters, sun-

favorite spots in your hometown.

screen and hat, luggage tags and passport holders, bridal

•Schedule your dress fittings.

“emergency kit” items).

•Choose and purchase your invitations if you did not already

•Create place cards.

do so when purchasing your save-the-dates.

•Check the local weather report for your destination, and

•Hire a local baker in your destination location, or work with

make plans for any possible inclement weather if needed.

your venue’s catering department on cake design, if you are

•De-stress and pamper yourself with a massage or gentle

planning on having a wedding cake.

facial.

•Schedule dates and locations for your engagement party, bridal shower and bachelor/bachelorette celebrations.

1 - 5 DAYS O U T

•Review venue and vendor contracts with your wedding planner.

•Head to your destination…it’s almost time for the big day! •Get a mani-pedi.

3-5 MONTHS OUT

•Do a trial run of your makeup and hairstyle.

•Finalize your guest list and send out invitations. Make sure to

•Meet with your wedding planner and vendors to confirm

include an insert with destination information, room booking de-

that everyone is on the same page.

tails, and maybe an artist-drawn map for fun!

•Take time out for a private drink or dinner with your spouse-

•Purchase your airline tickets, and encourage your guests to do

to-be, you both need and deserve it!

so, as well.

•Have your dress steamed.

•If you are planning a honeymoon that is separate from your

•Confirm in-room amenity bag items and deliveries for

destination wedding, make your honeymoon travel arrangements.

arriving guests.

•Purchase your accessories and men’s formalwear.

•Enjoy your rehearsal dinner (and remember, it is proper to invite all guests to the rehearsal dinner at a far-off destination wedding). Hand out pre-wedding gifts to your bridal party.

•Confirm your hotel and airline reservations.

•Stay hydrated, get enough sleep, and get ready to get

•Check up on your room block bookings, and add more rooms

married!!

•Create your seating chart. •Pick up your wedding dress. •Pick up your wedding rings. •Track down any invitees that haven’t responded and confirm if they plan to attend your destination wedding.

find out more about destination weddings @ WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM

{

if needed and able.

}

2-3 WEEKS OUT

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 121

REAL WEDDINGS

06.16.18

MR S.& MR S. / / S H AW N & DA R L A / /

COUPLE: Shawn Cummins & Darla Dean I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 175 I WEDDING COLORS: Blue, Gray, White & Blush VENUE: Hotel Galvez & Spa I CAKE: Susieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cakes & Confections I HONEYMOON: French Polynesia PHOTOGRAPHY: Joseph West Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Belle Of The Ball / Blooming Gallery / Kleinfield Bridal / Hey Lovely / Papellerie Smile Booth / PSAV / Aztec Events & Tents / Cakewalk Films / Chinatown Band / Jordan Limousine

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REAL WEDDINGS

SHAWN‘S FAVORITE SIP:

vodka & club soda with a splash of cranberry HER FAVORITE SWEET:

angel food cake or pound cake HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

going on adventures with my wife, spending time with family and friends

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT DARLA:

her beautiful, loving and giving heart, her adventurous spirit, and her contagious laugh DARLA‘S FAVORITE SIP:

mojito

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

anything chocolate

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

spending quality time with my wife, family and friends WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT SHAWN:

the commitment she has to me and our family–she takes care of us

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REAL WEDDINGS

When introduced through mutual friends, the spark Shawn and Darla both felt was undeniable. Fast-forward to an unforgettable Las Vegas weekend getaway with loved ones where, Shawn says, “In a beautiful suite filled with our family, friends, flowers, Champagne and a musician playing what would become our wedding song, Darla asked me to spend forever with her, and made me the happiest woman on Earth!” Their weekend wedding at the Gulf Coast’s grande dame of venues, Hotel Galvez & Spa, kicked off with a poolside welcome gathering. “The Hotel Galvez was always our number one pick! We love the beauty and the history of the property,” says Shawn. On Saturday, the threat of rain prompted a last-minute tented ceremony, beautifully decorated with greenery and crystal chandeliers. Shawn glittered in a custom Pnina Tornai ballgown, paired with diamond and pearl earrings designed for her by Darla, while Darla wowed the crowd in a custom Christian Siriano pantsuit and silver Miu Miu sandals. At the lushly decorated ballroom reception, guests took in ocean views, and enjoyed a gourmet “tastings” menu. Susie’s Cakes & Confections provided two cakes—a buttercream and white-almond cake with pineapple and raspberry fillings, and a German chocolate cake covered in fresh blooms. In lieu of gifts, the newlyweds requested that guests make donations to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in honor of their niece. After dancing into the wee hours, guests slept in, then enjoyed a wonderful Father’s Day farewell brunch on Sunday, because, “We wanted our guests to know how much we appreciated them being there to celebrate with us!”

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DESTINATION WEDDINGS |

// WAT E R F R O N T / /

WE DDI NG S W H E T H E R Y O U C H O O S E A S TAT E S I D E C E L E B R AT I O N O R S T A M P S O N Y O U R PASSPORT, CONSIDER THESE OPTIONS FOR OCEANFRONT NUPTIALS.

WRITER NATASHA GARBER

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| WEDDING PLANNING

DESTINATION WEDDINGS |

“ PALM COAST WEDDINGS ”

If clear blue skies, softly swaying palm trees and endless Atlantic Ocean views sound like your idea of the perfect wedding setting, discover more about Florida’s Hammock Beach Resort.

R O O M F O R R E V E L R Y Unlike many destination-wedding venues, Hammock Beach Resort has space for all of your nearest and dearest (75,000 square feet of it!), which means you can go to Florida and go big for your seaside nuptials. Take your pick from a variety of lush lawns, picturesque decks, cozy clubhouses and elegant reception spaces, for your Hammock Beach Resort wedding ceremony, reception, and all of your pre- and post-wedding festivities. F R O M O C E A N T O B A L L R O O M Say your vows beneath a chiffondraped tent overlooking the shimmering Atlantic. Or make your ceremony entrance down a grand staircase, with the ocean as your backdrop, before saying your “I do’s” on a manicured circular lawn. To celebrate your marriage union, join your guests in the resort’s Atlantic Ballroom, featuring high ceilings, wrought-iron chandeliers and mahogany moldings, in a formal but comfortable reception setting. Or keep things intimate and sophisticated, with a private clubhouse reception overlooking a glass-ceiling atrium, and featuring a cozy fire pit for late-evening conversation and cocktails. F O O D & F U N Hammock Beach Resort wedding packages include everything you need for your Florida destination wedding, from a dedicated day-of coordinator, to a low-key cocktail hour, to a complimentary Champagne toast for all guests. Choose from a variety of reception dinner menus, featuring grilled local fish selections, peppercorn-crusted pork loin, beef filet, seasonal vegetables, and a huge assortment of savory small bites and delicate passed hors d’oeuvre. And when the night comes to a close, retreat to your romantic wedding-night guestroom—provided at no charge to wedding couples who choose Hammock Beach Resort for their big day.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF HAMMOCK BEACH RESORT

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DESTINATION WEDDINGS |

“OFF TO ARUBA”

With year-round temps hovering somewhere just above 80 degrees, and endless options for activity (or lack thereof), Aruba is a longtime destination-wedding and honeymoon favorite.

S E A , S A N D & S P A If you’re looking for a wedding or honeymoon destination that’s got plenty of options for adventure-seekers, beach bums and spa-lovers alike, Aruba is a perfect locale. Where else can you start the day with an ATV tour, horseback ride or jeep safari through rugged island terrain, then end it by pampering your rumbled, tumbled bods with an al fresco spa treatment or couple’s massage? If you’re into water activities, check out SNUBA diving (a snorkeling/SCUBA combo that’s perfect for beginners) amidst dazzling coral formations, or kite-surfing Aruba’s aqua-blue waters with the brisk tradewinds at your back. Of course there’s always the option to do nothing at all, as you soak in the Caribbean sun, with the lapping tide as your soundtrack, a daiquiri in your hand, and your true love by your side.

T H E C U I S I N E S C E N E Planning an Aruba wedding? Plan to take advantage of the island’s incredible diversity of dining choices. Provide your guests with a list of nearby restaurants, from casual sidewalk cafes to trendy ethnic eateries to swanky cigar and cocktail lounges, which they can visit at their leisure in their free time. Make reservations for your rehearsal dinner at one of Aruba’s many international dining establishments (French, Mediterranean and Brazilian are a few of the most popular choices). Or organize a moonlit private dinner for two on a quiet pier or tranquil beach. Wherever you go, you’ll find menus infused with a subtle Caribbean touch, along with fresh local fish, and succulent northern shellfish.

R E S T & R E J U V E N A T I O N Your Aruba honeymoon or destination wedding will center on your hotel or resort of choice…and, oh, what a lot of choices there are! From the all-inclusive resorts and charming boutique inns of Oranjestad’s Eagle Beach, to the glamorous high-rise hotels of the north coast’s Palm Beach, to the bright lights and big-city feel of downtown Oranjestad’s spa and casino scene, Aruba has accommodations for every taste and budget, which makes planning your island wedding or honeymoon a breeze. Want an Aruba destination experience unlike any other? Book one of the island’s luxurious private villas, a selection of which offer such delightful, decadent features as championship golf, infinity pools—even a private chef and butler, to take care of all your needs, and make each one of your guests feel like a true VIP.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF ARUBA TOURISM AUTHORITY

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REAL WEDDINGS

10.20.18

MR.& MR S. //LISA & CHAS//

COUPLE: Lisa Hudson & Chas Watter | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 80 | WEDDING COLORS: White, Blush & Gold BRIDAL SHOWER CAKE: Susie’s Cakes & Confections | BRIDAL SHOWER DESSERTS: Cakes By Gina | LINENS & CANDELABRAS: Plants N’ Petals ENTERTAINMENT: LG Event Entertainment & Production | HONEYMOON: Antigua

PHOTOGRAPHY: Composure Studios CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Hilton Los Cabos / En Vogue Events / Let It Be Events / Weddings By Debbie / Houston Bridal Gallery / Blanc Bridal Salon

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

champagne

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

tres leches

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

a fun pool day spent with family and friends

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his unique ability to get along with everyone; his cultured mind and kind heart drew me to him

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

coopers pale ale

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

crème brûlée

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

sitting on a beach, reading a book

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

she’s a social butterfly who makes friends with everyone, and i love how she tells it like it is

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 131

REAL WEDDINGS

It was Lisa’s outgoing personality that drew Chas to her one evening in 2015 at a neighborhood bar, and it’s still that “social butterfly” quality that he says is her most endearing trait. For her part, she notes that, being an expat (she was born in the UK and has lived in five countries), she’s “naturally drawn to an international crowd,” and Chas, an Aussie transplant, fit the bill. From that first meeting, the pair became inseparable, and a week before Christmas 2017, Chas proposed to Lisa at a holiday party at her parents’ home in England. Lisa, the area director of sales for Hotel ZaZa’s two Houston properties, opted for a Mexican destination wedding for her own nuptials. The low-key, adventure-loving couple treated guests to a sunset catamaran cruise and party on Cabo San Lucas bay, in lieu of a rehearsal dinner. “It was a great way to break the ice, and for everyone to mix and mingle before the big day,” Lisa says. The following day, Lisa and Chas said their vows in front of 80 family and friends, on a terrace overlooking the Sea of Cortez, before commencing with an elegant al fresco reception, done up in shades of white and gold, with an abundance of candles and sparkling sequins. “My favorite moment was walking down the aisle with my daddy by my side,” Lisa notes. “I took it all in—the setup, the music, the details, the ambiance, the ocean breeze on my face, our guests who had travelled from near and far to celebrate with us, and my handsome husband-to-be at the end of the aisle waiting for me.”

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// R E C E P T I O N & R E H E A R S A L //

LO CATION S W H E R E O H W H E R E T O H O S T, E N T E R TA I N A N D W E D ?

PHOTO AMA BY AISHA

REHEARSAL DINNER GUIDE Find out capacity, private room and outdoor area options for your bridal shower, welcome celebration, engagement party, and rehearsal dinner. compare and search these vendors, request pricing and availability on WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM/REHEARSAL-DINNER-GUIDE/

< A M É RI C A S

2040 West Gray • Houston, TX 77019 844.346.4365 • AmericasRestaurant.com Américas is a progressive Latin dining experience highlighting the gifts of the new world. What would history’s kitchens be without the tomato, the potato, vanilla, corn or avocado? Cordúa’s Américas weaves contemporary cooking techniques with the excitement of Latin ingredients.

Events at a Time Private Rooms Max. Guests Private Bar Service Entertainment Outdoor Site Min. Price PP

3 Y 75 Y Y Y Call

A RM A ND O S > 2630 Westheimer Rd • Houston, TX 77098 713.520.1738 • ArmandosCaters.com Events at a Time Private Rooms Max. Guests Private Bar Service Entertainment Outdoor Site Min. Price PP

2 Y 36 Y Y N Call

Centrally located in River Oaks, ARMANDOS offers a refined modern approach to Tex-Mex. Our intimate wine room is the premier location for exceptional service, upscale cuisine, and beautiful ambiance. We can comfortably accommodate up to 36 guests for a prix fixe, family style or plated dinner, with a variety of menu items to satisfy any appetite. Let us take care of the details and make your private dinner special. le zu photography le zu photography

le zu photography le zu photography

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REHEARSAL DINNERS |

< B RE NN A N’ S O F H O U S TO N 3300 Smith St • Houston, TX 77006 713.522.9711 • BrennansHouston.com For over 40 years Brennan’s Houston has been the destination for brides who are searching for Southern hospitality. We have several different-size rooms to accommodate any size celebration and a dedicated culinary staff to make your taste buds sing. “The grandest restaurant in the city.” – Alison Cook, chron.com.

Events at a Time 3 Private Rooms Y Max. Guests 200 Private Bar Service Y Entertainment Y Outdoor Site Y Min. Price PP $60

C ADI L L AC BA R > 1802 Shepherd Dr • Houston, TX 77007 713.862.2020 • CadillacBar.com Events at a Time 2 Private Rooms Y Max. Guests 400 Private Bar Service Y Entertainment Y Outdoor Site Y Min. Price PP $12

Cadillac Bar is the perfect venue to celebrate your rehearsal dinner, bridal shower, wedding reception, quinceañera or bar/bat mitzvah. With two private rooms, accommodating 30 to 400 guests, the possibilities are endless. Our event planner is available to help coordinate all the details for your unforgettable day.

< C H A MA GAÚ C H A B RA ZI L I A N S T E A K H O U S E 5865 Westheimer Rd • Houston, TX 77057 713.244.9500 • ChamaGaucha.com Events at a Time 3 Private Rooms Y Max. Guests 110 Private Bar Service Y Entertainment Y Outdoor Site Y Min. Price PP $49

Whether it’s a cocktail reception, rehearsal dinner, bachelor/bachelorette dinner or magnificent wedding reception, Chama Gaúcha’s passion for perfection will create the perfect event with Brazilian flair. Treat your guests to an extraordinary experience they will remember for years.

C H U RRA S C O S >

3300 S Gessner Rd, Ste 270 • Houston, TX 77063 844.346.4365 • Churrascos.com Events at a Time Private Rooms Max. Guests Private Bar Service Entertainment Outdoor Site Min. Price PP

4 Y 120 Y Y Y Call

Established in 1988, Churrascos offers the bold flavors of the South American parilla with all its fire and passion. Enjoy appetizers like empanadas and ceviches, or our signature chimichurri marinated center-cut tenderloin followed by our famous Tres Leches. Paired with distinct wines, Churrascos warmly transports you to an orchestra of flavor celebrating the grill, fresh ingredients, and your guests.

< D O U B L E T RE E BY H I LTO N H O U S TO N G RE E NWAY P L AZA 6 E Greenway Plaza • Houston, TX 77046 713.850.2305 • DoubleTree3.hilton.com We offer the perfect location for traditional rehearsal dinners, with a panoramic view from the 20th floor's floor-to-ceiling windows, and an absolutely private section of the hotel. Enjoy a unique rehearsal dinner or welcome gathering poolside, and kick off your wedding weekend with live entertainment and exciting food stations. ©2016 gina schild photography

13 4 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

Events at a Time 2 Private Rooms Y Max. Guests 100 Private Bar Service Y Entertainment Y Outdoor Site Y Min. Price PP $35

| WEDDING PLANNING

REHEARSAL DINNERS |

H ILTO N AM ER IC AS - H O U S TO N > 1600 Lamar St • Houston, TX 77010 713.739.8000 • AmericasHouston.Hilton.com Events at a Time 10 Private Rooms Y Max. Guests 130 Private Bar Service Y Entertainment N Outdoor Site N Min. Price PP $110

We can accommodate receptions, seated dinners or banquets, and our experienced staff and award-winning chefs provide superior service for your pre-wedding celebrations and beyond with flexible, creative menu options. We can customize your decor and menu to suit your taste and cultural traditions, while your guests can easily book accommodations through our website.

< T H E H O U S TO NI A N H OT E L , C LU B & SPA 111 North Post Oak Ln • Houston, TX 77024 713.680.2626 • Houstonian.com The Houstonian Hotel offers brides and grooms unique venue spaces to create their dream destination wedding experience in the heart of Houston. Four ballrooms along with outdoor space offer a versatility and sophistication to accomadate weddings of any size. Create a breathtaking moment with a ceremony under the iconic Live Oak tree.

Events at a Time 6 Private Rooms Y Max. Guests 450 Private Bar Service Y Entertainment Y Outdoor Site Y Min. Price PP $85

IB IZ A FO O D & W IN E BA R >

2450 Louisiana St • Houston, TX 77006 713.524.0004 • IbizaFoodAndWineBar.com Events at a Time 1 Private Rooms Y Max. Guests 110 Private Bar Service Y Entertainment Y Outdoor Site Y Min. Price PP Call

Ibiza Food & Wine Bar's Next Door is dedicated to delivering exceptional private events in a striking, intimate setting. Chef Charles Clark's culinary expertise makes for a chef-driven experience in a setting accented by warm cherry wood. Equipped with a fullservice bar and audio & visual capabilities, guests can host a range of events, from seated rehearsal dinners for up to 55 to cocktail receptions for up to 110.

le zu photography

< L E MÉ RI D I E N H O U S TO N D OW NTOW N 1121 Walker Street • Houston, TX 77002 346.330.3453 lemeridienhoustondowntown.com Host an unforgettable celebration for up to 250 in our 22nd-floor Grand Ballroom, which offers striking city views and abundant natural light. Our rooftop bar & lounge provides the perfect space for smaller receptions and events, offering 360views of downtown Houston.

Events at a Time 1 Private Rooms Y Max. Guests 250 Private Bar Service Y Entertainment Y Outdoor Site Y Min. Price PP $50

LU LU 'S > 204 E Mill St • Round Top, TX 78954 713.520.1738 • lulustx.com Events at a Time 1 Private Rooms Y Max. Guests 40 Private Bar Service Y Entertainment Y Outdoor Site Y Min. Price PP Call

Set in an 1870s limestone building reminiscent of Provence, Lulu's offers a venue that is unmatched for a romantic event in the uberchic country town of Round Top, Texas. Brought to you by the family behind Houston’s ARMANDOS Restaurant, Lulu’s is proud to put our 40-plus years of culinary expertise to work in Round Top, Texas. le zu photography

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| WEDDING PLANNING

REHEARSAL DINNERS |

M CC O R M IC K & S C H M I C K 'S > 1151-01 Uptown Park Blvd • Houston, TX 77056 713.840.7900 • MccormickAndSchmicks.com Events at a Time

Private Rooms

Max. Guests

120

Private Bar Service

Entertainment Y Outdoor Site

Min. Price PP

$53

Whether you are Uptown, Downtown, or West of the Loop, our three unique locations are perfect for your special day. We focus on the finer points of service and offer creative menus, delicious food and beautiful private dining space. Whether you're looking to host an intimate reception, rehearsal dinner, bridal luncheon, or brunch, we are eager to create a personalized menu for you. Our extensive wine list and full bar will perfectly complement every dish.

< T H E P O S T OA K H OT E L 1600 West Loop South • Houston, TX 77027 346.227.5086 • thepostoakhotel.com Elegantly appointed with sophisticated decor and world-class amenities, The Post Oak Hotel is the perfect combination of decadence and metropolitan luxury. Whether you are celebrating your engagement, arranging a bridal luncheon or bridal shower, planning an intimate destination wedding or a large wedding weekend celebration, the Post Oak Hotel has every amenity and appointment to suit your needs. Call us for availability and details.

Events at a Time 11 Private Rooms Y Max. Guests 1000 Private Bar Service Y Entertainment N Outdoor Site N Min. Price PP $140

WAT E RS E D G E >

3901 NASA Parkway • El Lago, TX 77586 281.291.9900 • WatersEdge.events Events at a Time

Private Rooms

Max. Guests

400

Private Bar Service

Entertainment N Outdoor Site

Min. Price PP

Call

With a beautiful waterfront view, lush landscaping, and all-inclusive packaging, there is nothing more you could want! Located just south of Houston on a generous two and a half acres facing the scenic Clear Lake shores, Waters Edge offers a truly exquisite waterfront view for your special celebration. We are able to comfortably seat 250 of your guests in our indoor facility where they are sure to enjoy the same Waters Edge view through the glass wall overlooking the water. ©2016 gina schild photography

< T H E W Y ND E N A ND M A SRA F F 'S 1025 S Post Oak Ln • Houston, TX 77056 281.768.6070 • thewynden.com The elegance and versatility of The Wynden and Masraff's restaurant provide the perfect setting for all of your wedding festivities, from showers and engagement parties, to rehearsal dinners, ceremonies and receptions, all in the heart of the Houston Galleria area.

*All information is subject to change without notice. Some features may be available on a limited, seasonal or by-request-only basis.

13 6 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

Events at a Time 1 Private Rooms N Max. Guests 200 Private Bar Service Y Entertainment N Outdoor Site Y Min. Price PP Call

| WEDDING PLANNING

RECEPTION VENUES |

// RECEPTION GUIDE // BROWSE OUR ONLINE REHEARSAL DINNER AND RECEPTION LOC ATION GUIDES, SEE PHOTOS,

Outside Catering Permitted

Kosher Menu Available

Outdoor Area Available

ADA Accessible

√

300

2630 Westheimer Rd • Houston, TX 77098

713.520.1738

150 1 Call √ √ 281

Ashton Gardens - North 21919 Inverness Forest Blvd • Houston, TX 77073

281.362.0011

300

$50

√

Ashton Gardens - West 18002 Clay Rd • Houston, TX 77084

281.656.2449

400

$37

√

The Astorian 2500 Summer St • Houston, TX 77007

832.460.6695

750

$55

√

√ √

8-9

The Ballroom at Bayou Place 500 Texas Ave • Houston, TX 77002

713.400.1299

800

Call

√

√ √

Balmoral Crystal Clear Lagoon Houston 15808 Crystal Terrace Dr • Humble, TX 77346

919.623.2567

500

Call

√

√ √

The Bell Tower on 34th 901 W 34th St • Houston, TX 77018

713.868.2355

300

$70

√

√ 11

Bernhardt Winery 9043 Country Rd 204 • Plantersville, TX 77363

936.894.9829

150

√

√ 120

Boardwalk FantaSea Yacht Charters #8 Kemah Boardwalk Ste G • Kemah, TX 77565

281.538.9600

128

Call

√

√ 86

The Bougainvilleas 12126 Westheimer Rd • Houston, TX 77077

832.914.7844

350

$68

Brennan’s of Houston 3300 Smith St • Houston, TX 77006

713.522.9711

200

$60

√

√ 30

Cadillac Bar 1802 Shepherd Dr • Houston, TX 77007

713.862.2020

400

$12

√

√ 90

The Carriage House 3845 Sapp Rd • Conroe, TX 77304

936.588.4083

300

Call

√ √

√

√ 105

Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse 5865 Westheimer Rd • Houston, TX 77057

713.244.9500

110

$49

√

Corinthian Houston 202 Fannin St at Franklin • Houston, TX 77002

713.222.2002

1900

$75

√ √ √

√ 2-3

400

$48

√

√ 101

15 Acres 25566 Bradbury Rd • Hockley, TX 77447

Page Number

281.703.9091

Venue

Maximum Capacity

Ceremony Site Available

Off-Site Catering Available

√

Minimum Price Per Person

Call

Phone

Simultaneous Events

R E A D T E S T I M O N I A L S , A N D CO N N E C T W I T H LO C A L V E N U E S : W W W. W E D D I N G S I N H O U S TO N . CO M A

√ 89

ARMANDOS

DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Downtown 400 Dallas St • Houston, TX 77002

713.351.5758

$105

√

√ √

√

√ √

√

√ 35

√

23 129

DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Greenway Plaza 6 E Greenway Plaza • Houston, TX 77046

713.850.2305

350

$35

Downtown Aquarium 410 Bagby St • Houston, TX 77002

713.315.5168

400

$30

√

√ 87

The Dunlavy 3422 Allen Pkwy • Houston, TX 77019

832.523.1777

220

Call

√

Eagle Dancer Ranch 1621 FM 473 • Sisterdale, TX 78006

210.508.0344

300

Call

√ √

√

√ 107_

Four Oaks at Mound Creek Ranch 12569 FM 579 E • Leona, TX 75850

936.348.0178

300

Call

√

√ √

√

√ 90_

The Gallery 6303 Beverly Hill St • Houston, TX 77057

713.255.2889

300

Call

√

√ √

√

√ 37

√

√ √

√ 74

64-65

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 137

Page Number

Ceremony Site Available

ADA Accessible

Outdoor Area Available

Kosher Menu Available

Outside Catering Permitted

Off-Site Catering Available

Minimum Price Per Person

Simultaneous Events

RECEPTION LOCATIONS |

Maximum Capacity

Phone

Venue

| WEDDING PLANNING

The Gardens at Madeley Manor 915 N Frazier St • Conroe, TX 77301

936.524.3352

200

Call

√

√ 85

Heather’s Glen 200 E Phillips St • Conroe, TX 77301

936.441.6611

180

Call

√

√ 32

HESS Club 5430 Westheimer Rd • Houston, TX 77056

713.627.2283

300

$35

Hilton Americas - Houston 1600 Lamar St • Houston, TX 77010

713.739.8000

2200

Hilton Houston Post Oak 2001 Post Oak Blvd • Houston, TX 77056

713.961.9300

Hilton Houston North 12400 Greenspoint Dr • Houston, TX 77060

√

√ √

√ 73

$110

√

√ √

√ 47

1000

Call

√

√ 67

281.875.2222

1000

$30

√ √

√ 88

Hotel Galvez & Spa 2024 Seawall Blvd • Galveston, TX 77550

409.765.7721

350

$60

√ √

√

√ 42

Hotel ZaZa Memorial City 9787 Katy Freeway • Houston, TX 77024

713.465.9292

400

$125

√

√ 15

Hotel ZaZa Museum District 5701 Main St • Houston, TX 77005

713.526.1991

400

$150

√

√ 4-5

Houston Racquet Club 10709 Memorial Dr • Houston, TX 77024

713.464.4811

300

√ √

√ 83

The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa 111 North Post Oak Ln • Houston, TX 77024

713.680.2626

450

$125

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Rd • Lost Pines, TX 78612

512.308.4727

500

$120

Julia Ideson Library 550 McKinney St • Houston, TX 77002

832.393.1646

350

Call

JW Marriott Houston Downtown 806 Main St • Houston, TX 77002

713.237.1111

350

Kemah Gardens 1019 Lewis Dr • Kemah, TX 77565

281.334.0501

150

King River Ranch 2054 Ranch Rd 1320 • Johnson City, TX 78636

830.392.6484

La Cantera Resort & Spa 16641 La Cantera Parkway • San Antonio, TX 78256 Las Velas 5714 Fairdale Ln • Houston, TX 77057

√

$65

√

√ √

√

√ 33

√

√ 118

√

√ 71

Call

√

√ √

√ 31

Call

√ √

√

√ 84

250

Call

√

√ 116

210.558.2229

700

$110

√ √

√

√ 68

713.977.5773

250

Call

√ √

√

√ 75

Le Méridien Houston Downtown 1121 Walker St • Houston, TX 77002

346.330.3453

250

$65

√

√ 88

Lulu’s 204 E Mill St • Round Top, TX 78954

713.520.1738

150

Call

√ √

√

√ 281

The Lyceum of Galveston Island 2401 Winnie St • Galveston, TX 77550

409.789.4142

300

Call

√ √

√

√ 72

Magnolia Hotel Houston 1100 Texas Ave • Houston, TX 77002

713.221.0011

230

$60

√ √

√

Magnolia Meadows 32745 Dobbin Huffsmith Rd • Magnolia, TX 77354

281.305.9434

250

Call

√ √

√

√ 70

Marriott CityPlace at Springwoods Village 1200 Lake Plaza Dr • Spring, TX 77389

281.350.4000

650

Call

√

√ 91

All information is subject to change without notice. Some features may be available on a limited, seasonal or by-request-only basis.

13 8 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

√

√ 87_

Moffitt Oaks 20125 Cedar Ln • Tomball, TX 77377

281.370.6616

300

$30

√

√ 123

Page Number

ADA Accessible

√

Ceremony Site Available

Outdoor Area Available

$30

Minimum Price Per Person

Simultaneous Events

530

Maximum Capacity

281.875.4000

Phone

Marriott Houston North 255 N. Sam Houston Pkwy East • Houston, TX 77060

Venue

Kosher Menu Available

RECEPTION LOCATIONS |

Outside Catering Permitted

Off-Site Catering Available

| WEDDING PLANNING

Northgate Country Club 17110 Northgate Forest Dr • Houston, TX 77068 281.444.5302 320 1 $32 √ √ √ √ 34 Old Glory Ranch 3633 River Rd • Wimberley, TX 78676

512.847.3646

600

Call

√

√ 120_

Omni Houston Hotel 4 Riverway Dr • Houston, TX 77056

713.871.8181

750

$75

√

√ √

√

√ 45_

300

$40

√ √

√

√ 99_

Ouisie’s Table 3939 San Felipe St • Houston, TX 77027

713.528.2264

√

Petroleum Club of Houston 1201 Louisiana St, 35th Floor • Houston, TX 77002

713.659.1431

250

$65

√

√ 32_

Pine Forest Country Club 18003 Clay Rd • Houston, TX 77084

281.815.8509

350

$50

√ √

√

√ 81_

Plantation on the Bay 3600 Tri City Beach Road • Beach City, TX 77523

817.233.3473

300

$30

√ √

√

√ 119

The Post Oak Hotel 1600 West Loop South • Houston, TX 77027

346.227.5086

1000

$200

√

√ 21

9415 Cypresswood Dr • Spring, TX 77379

281.320.6009

325

Call

√

Sandlewood Manor 22402 Holly Creek Trail • Tomball, TX 77377

281.466.9487

400

Call

√

√ 13_

Sara’s Inn 941 Heights Blvd • Houston, TX 77008

832.727.3071

Call

√ √ 69_

Southern Lace Estates 1110 Indian Shores Rd • Crosby, TX 77532

281.928.2455

700

$40

√

Texas Renaissance Festival 21778 FM 1774 • Todd Mission, TX 77363

800.458.3435

400

$22

The Tremont House 2300 Ship’s Mechanic Row • Galveston, TX 77550

409.763.0300

400

$60

√ √

√ 43_

The Villagio 10901 Braes Bend Dr • Houston, TX 77071

281.352.0903

500

$59

√ √

√

√ 95_

Waters Edge 3901 Nasa Pkwy • El Lago, TX 77586

281.291.9900

400

Call

√

√ 16-17

The Westin Houston Memorial City 945 Gessner Rd • Houston, TX 77024

281.501.4395

700

$42

√ √

The Wynden - Masraff’s 1025 South Post Oak Lane • Houston, TX 77056

281.768.6070

600

Call

√

Raveneaux Country Club √

√

√ √

√

OBC/IFC

√ √

√ 117_

√

√ 110-11

√

√ 79 √ 36_

NOTES:

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 139

“

Your wedding planner’s first job is to act as your event stylist.

JOSEPH WEST PHOTOGRAPHY

”

| WEDDING PLANNING

WEDDING SERVICES |

6 REASONS TO HIRE A

PLAN NE R

AKIL BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY

K N O W E X A C T LY W H AT T O L O O K F O R W H E N Y O U T O U R P O T E N T I A L W E D D I N G V E N U E S ?

Got a database of verified vendors on hand who’ll deliver precisely what you need, on time and as described? Adept at contract negotiation and liability management, to ensure you’re covered for every dollar you spend? If your answer to any of the above questions is, “Uh…nope,” you need to hire a professional to plan your flawless wedding festivities. Read on for six reasons why you should put your wedding in the hands of an experienced expert.

PLANNER GRAYHOUSE EVENTS ATELIER : BRIDESMAIDS GOWNS BELLA BRIDESMAIDS

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 141

| WEDDING PLANNING

THE RAMSEYS PHOTOGRAPHY

1. Your wedding planner will refine and execute your wedding vision. So many

inspiration boards. So many resources. So many ideas and possibilities and decisions. Getting your wedding design from elusive notion to exquisite reality is no easy task. Your wedding planner’s first job is to act as your event stylist, helping you narrow down design and floral ideas, and determine what elements are ideal, or even feasible, for your venue, season and budget. She or he will look at wedding-inspo images with you—and reveal the reality behind those pretty pictures, in terms of complexity and cost.

2. Your wedding planner will ensure that your wedding is

perfectly personal. An experienced wedding planner will make sure

your wedding reflects your personalities and sentiments by asking tons of questions—“What are your favorite colors?” “Where do you like to dine out?” “What is your favorite travel destination?” “How do you want your guests to feel at your wedding?”—and using your answers as guidance for everything from linen selections to menu planning to ceremony music suggestions. Your wedding planner may also want to visit your home and see what kind of furniture, lighting and home decor you’ve chosen to live amongst.

3. Your wedding planner will make sure you stick to your budget.

No matter how big or small, every wedding has a budget. And most professional wedding planners have worked with a vast range of them, and know how to allocate funds to make sure they’re being spent on the right things for your wedding. If you and your betrothed are avid foodies, for example, you’ll want to spend more on gourmet cuisine, fine wine and food presentation, and perhaps less on things like centerpiece flowers or a 12-piece live band. If, on the other hand, you’re all about the party experience, you may want to bring in a DJ and a full band, along with a custom photo booth, choreographed performers, and glow-props for guests to use while dancing the night away on your monogrammed dance floor. Helping you set a budget and spend that budget wisely is among your wedding planner’s most important tasks, and, alone, is worth the price of hiring a planning pro.

142 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

WEDDING SERVICES |

K E L LY H O R N B E R G E R

4. Your wedding planner will help you

navigate family influence. No matter who is paying for your wedding, it is your wedding, and the celebration of your blessed union with the person you want to AMA BY AISHA spend your life with. The way your wedding looks and feels should reflect you and your fiancé—your tastes, your preferences, your favorite things. And your wedding planner will make sure that happens, even in the face of pressure from well-meaning but troublesome family members and friends.

5. Your wedding planner will make sure your VIPs receive

special treatment. As all wedding planners concur, you will never, ever please everyone with every wedding-planning decision you make. Your planner will guide you on how to graciously but firmly handle a pushy mom or problematic bridesmaid, and will ensure that your most important guests receive special treatment—giving a personal reading, sitting in a place of honor, delivering a meaningful toast, crafting personalized favors—to show them how much you care about them…even if you vetoed their napkin-color demand or centerpiece-height suggestion.

6. Your wedding planner will put your well-being first.

Along with expertise in budgeting, design, logistics, contracts and vendor management, the very best wedding planners are gifted with enormous compassion, empathy and humor. These wonderful wedding planners are able to make their clients feel cared for and listened to, relaxed and reassured. If you tend to lose sleep over decisions, or you’re already feeling overwhelmed, soon after saying, “Yes,” to that marriage proposal, seek out a wedding planner with whom you really “click” on a personal level. As your guide along this journey, she or he will call or text to check in with you on a regular basis, remind you to drink plenty of water and get enough sleep, gently urge you to get a massage or take a day off work if needed, and always keep you focused on what’s most important: that your wedding is a celebration of your marriage, the most precious promise you’ll ever make.

REAL WEDDINGS

0 2 . 1 7. 1 8

MR.& MR S. //ALLIE & KEITH//

COUPLE: Allie Brooks & Keith Paulk | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 200 | WEDDING COLORS: Jewel Tones RENTALS: Swift + Co. | VIDEOGRAPHY: Reverent Wedding Films | HONEYMOON: Jamaica

PHOTOGRAPHY: Catherine Smeader Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: The Farmhouse / My Event Angels / Memorial Bakery / House Of Blooms Adorne Artistry / Rice Village Diamonds / The Wedding Suite At Nordstrom / J&A Entertainment

144 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

| WEDDING PLANNING

WEDDING SERVICES |

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 145

REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

moscato d’asti

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

tiramisu

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

waking up early and going to the dog park with our pups, charlotte and rocco WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

how in touch he is with my emotions

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

shiner bock

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

chocolate-and-peanut-butter cake HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

hanging out with my wife and playing video games

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

i can be myself when i’m around her – she doesn’t judge me

146 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

From a fateful Tinder swipe to a surprise proposal at a photo shoot in the groom’s Alabama hometown, Allie counts her courtship with Keith as a total score : “He had lived in Texas for less than a year when we met on Tinder, and I snagged him! His Alabama accent was still quite thick, and it made me fall for him instantly.” But the road to their wedding was paved with deep heartache. As the bride recounts, “I got engaged in December 2016, and lost my father in August 2017. He was 52 years young, and passed away unexpectedly due to a pulmonary embolism right when Hurricane Harvey ended.” Allie mustered all the courage and strength she could to continue planning her wedding in her father’s honor, noting, “I know he wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.” On her wedding day, Allie’s 20-year-old brother walked her down the aisle, where she pledged her love to Keith, before the couple joined their 200 guests for a joyful party filled with Zydeco music (a nod to Allie’s Cajun roots) and dancing long into the night. “The thing that was most important to us was that we had a party wedding,” the bride says, “and between the open bar and the Michael Jackson, we succeeded!”

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 147

REAL WEDDINGS

08.18.18

MR.& MR. //CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL & BRIAN //

COUPLE: Christopher Michael Stribling & Brian Ritter I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 75 I WEDDING COLORS: White, Ivory, Blush & Metallics COORDINATION & MENU CARDS: A Day To Remember I HONEYMOON: Spain, France, Monaco & Italy

PHOTOGRAPHY: Talitha Tarro Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Eldorado Hotel & Spa / A Cake Odyssey / Katie & Co. House Of Hough / A Passion Flower / Vitor Lindo Photo + Video / Diamond Empire Band

148 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 149

REAL WEDDINGS

CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL‘S FAVORITE SIP:

dom perignon

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

buttermilk pie

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

making houston womenʼs hair even more beautiful WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT BRIAN:

how driven and passionate he is about life

BRIAN‘S FAVORITE SIP:

old fashioned

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

rhubarb pie

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

fabulous dinners and houston performing arts WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL:

that he has such a big heart, is outgoing and loves people

150 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

“On the sandy beaches of Mexico, I showed Brian a beautiful video I‘d made, with the help of family and friends,” Christopher Michael says. “The video carried the message, ‘You Matter to Me,’ which became our wedding song.” The song’s theme was the basis of their intimate destination wedding in Santa Fe, where 75 close friends and family members gathered for a celebratory weekend, which included a White Party and a visit to the opera. Houston planner Claudia De Velasco of A Day To Remember planned the couple’s nuptials, coordinating with both Houston and Santa Fe wedding vendors. The grooms exchanged vows and engraved wedding rings custom-designed by Christopher Michael. A dramatic sunset and a view of rugged mountains served as the backdrop to their enchanting rooftop reception, enhanced by twinkling string lights, and a color palette of ivory, blush and metallics. Guests dined on peppercorn salmon, chipotle-roasted free-range chicken, and lemon-raspberry cake. Notes Christopher Michael, “Even though it was a destination wedding, I don‘t feel we stressed, because we knew we were well taken care of!”

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 151

152 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

/ / WEDDING PLANNER / /

Reserve guest accommodation.

Create your gift registry.

florist, entertainer).

(photographer, videographer,

Choose and book your vendors-

bridesmaids.

Choose and invite your

narrow down your design.

Work with your planner to

Shop for and order your gown.

8-10 MONTHS BEFORE:

Book your venue.

Hire a wedding planner.

Draw up a budget.

photographer.

Give must-have shot list to

Print place cards.

Salon visit or spa day.

Finalize your seating chart.

head count.

Give caterer final

do last follow-ups.

Review RSVP list and

1- 2 WE E K S BE FOR E :

Print your wedding program.

playlist to band or DJ.

Finalize your music and give

Meet with your photographer.

Confirm all of your vendors.

Do your final dress fittings.

Mail your invitations.

1- 2 M ONTHS BE FOR E :

Pick a wedding date.

wedding theme/design.

Start envisioning your

Get engaged!

12 + MONTHS BEFORE:

DOWNLOAD YOUR COPY @ WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM

YES

I SAID

| WEDDING PLANNING WEDDING SERVICES |

KELLI DURHAM

Attend your shower.

Make your toast list.

Order wedding favors.

Rent or purchase formalwear.

Finalize your flowers.

Finalize your menu.

K E L LY H O R N B E R G E R

3-4 MONTHS BEFORE:

Start your gown fittings.

Book your rehearsal dinner venue.

your guest list.

Give your shower host

STEPHANIA CAMPOS // FLOWERS: DREAM BOUQUET

professionals.

GET MAR R IED!

first newlywed adventure together!

Rest, relax and enjoy your

Check in for your flight.

Pack for your honeymoon.

Return any attire rentals.

Write thank-you notes.

P OS T- WE DDI NG :

bridal party.

members and members of

who are family

Make sure photographer knows

officiant after ceremony.

Give best man check to give

honor and best man.

Give wedding bands to maid of

and each other.

Present gifts to parents, bridal party

DAY OF:

Write checks to vendors.

Give marriage license to officiant.

from airport and brought to hotel.

Arrange for guests to be picked up

groomsmen have attire ready.

Make sure bridesmaids and

Pick up formalwear.

Press wedding gown.

Schedule hair and makeup

Taste cakes and hire a baker.

Purchase your wedding bands.

4-6 MONTHS BEFORE:

get or renew passports if needed.

Start planning your honeymoon;

Meet with your officiant.

Send out save-the-dates.

Order your invitations.

Order your bridesmaid dresses.

6-8 MONTHS BEFORE:

2 019

WEDDING SOIREE

attend

1- 3 DAY S BE FOR E :

| WEDDING PLANNING WEDDING SERVICES |

S Y LV I E G I L / / D E C O R : T O D D E V E N T S

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 153

REAL WEDDINGS

10.20.18

MR.& MR S. / / M O L LY & R O B / /

COUPLE: Molly Walker & Robert Clark | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 400 | WEDDING COLORS: White, Green & Gray PHOTOGRAPHY: Kelli Durham Photography | VENUE: The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa | REHEARSAL DINNER: Ouisie’s Table COORDINATION: Grayhouse Events Atelier | RENTALS: Swift + Co. | CAKE: Susie’s Cakes & Confections BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids | REGISTRY: Kuhl-Linscomb | HONEYMOON: St. Barts

CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Jonathan Andrew Sage Inc. / Casa De Novia / Jentry Kelley / Katie Lynn Beauty / Chinatown Band / Boxee Box / 31 Films / DGZ Invitations And More

154 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

dos equis

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

ice cream

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

at my familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ranch with friends and family WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his faith, humor and loyalty

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

old fashioned

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

chocolate cake with peanut-butter frosting HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

watching football with friends

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her heart for jesus and others, and her smile

156 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

A casual meeting with mutual friends at a low-key cantina two years ago turned into the highest form of devotion, when Rob asked Molly to be his wife, at her family’s ranch, on Easter weekend, 2018. And while planning their Houston wedding from afar—the couple resides in Dallas—had its challenges, having Jim Gray of Grayhouse Events Atelier as their coordinator and stylist made things a whole lot easier. Following their church ceremony, the couple joined 400 well-wishers for a reception at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa, where lush greenery, white flowers and warm lighting created an “elegant, rustic feel.” On the dance floor, props and decor in a palette of red, white and blue, evoked a patriotic American theme, the bride notes. “The groom has a pipe dream to become president one day, so we surprised him with the American theme, and hats that said, ‘Bobby for President,’” Molly explains. “For our sendoff we gave everyone a flag that said, ‘Clark 2018,’ like a campaign banner.” Also, she adds, “We love to dance, so we had a blast on the dance floor! It was the happiest celebration—our hearts are so full.”

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WEDDING SERVICES |

S H E TA

| WEDDING PLANNING

/ / TO WED / /

While your wedding is a fabulous celebration, filled with flowers, food, friends and family, your marriage is a legal matter. Find out where, when and how to make your union official, with this essential information on licenses, certificates and officiating regulations for Houston weddings. NO. 1 : WHERE CAN WE GO TO GET OUR

NO. 4 : HOW MUCH WILL WE NEED TO PAY

MARRIAGE LICENSE IN HOUSTON? You can apply for a marriage license at any County Clerk’s office in the state of Texas. The Harris County Clerk’s office main branch is located in Houston in the Harris County Civil Courthouse at 201 Caroline, Suite 460. The office phone number is 713.273.8600. You must appear together in person at the County Clerk’s office when you apply for a marriage license. Your marriage license will be valid in any county

TO GET A MARRIAGE LICENSE AND WHAT IS THE

in the state of Texas.

the waiting period will be waived automatically.

NO. 2 : WHAT REQUIREMENTS DO WE NEED TO MEET AND WHAT FORMS OF ID ARE NEEDED TO GET A MARRIAGE LICENSE? Both of you need to be at least 18 years old and unmarried when you apply for your marriage license. You will need to present a valid form of identification at the County Clerk’s office and provide your social security numbers. Driver’s licenses, passports and other government-issued documents are acceptable forms of identification at the Harris County Clerk’s office.

NO. 3 : IS THERE A WAITING PERIOD BEFORE WE CAN GET A MARRIAGE LICENSE IF ONE OF US HAS BEEN DIVORCED RECENTLY? If one of you has ended a previous marriage in divorce, the divorce must be final for at least 30 days before you can apply for a marriage license. You can apply to waive this waiting period by calling the Harris County Clerk’s office or visiting the office in person.

WAITING PERIOD? The fee is $72.00 for a marriage license. There is a waiting period of 72 hours before you can be married. Your marriage license will only be valid after this waiting period has passed. You can contact the Harris County Clerk’s office for information on how to apply to have this waiting period waived. If either of you is active military or currently works for the United States Department of Defense,

NO. 5 : HOW LONG DO WE HAVE TO USE OUR HOUSTON MARRIAGE LICENSE BEFORE IT EXPIRES? You will have 90 days to use your marriage license after it is issued by the Harris County Clerk’s office. After 90 days, your marriage license will expire.

NO. 6 : WHO CAN WE ASK TO PERFORM OUR WEDDING CEREMONY? You can ask anyone who is authorized to perform wedding ceremonies in Texas. Rabbis, ministers, priests and judges are authorized to perform wedding ceremonies in the state of Texas, among others.

NO. 7 : WHERE CAN WE GO TO GET OUR MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE IN HOUSTON? You will be able to order your marriage certificate through the Harris County Clerk’s office. For more information, you can call the Harris County Clerk’s office or visit the office in person.

COURTESY OF CITYAPPLICATIONS.COM AND CCLERK.HCTX.NET

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OF TE

LI CE N SE

REAL WEDDINGS

09.01.18

MR.& MR S. //RIZZA & JOSH//

CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Secret Floral Garden / Whole Foods / BHLDN / Glossip Houston Star Photo Booth / Beatseekerz / Smash Brothers DJs / Justin Ruiz Media / Jordan Limousines

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HER FAVORITE SIP:

vodka & topo chico

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

doughnuts

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

any workout, but especially dancing, yoga and pilates

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his patience

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

ciroc & soda

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

cheesecake

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

netflix and massages

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her dance moves

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Though she knew that the years she was about to devote to nursing school were going to be filled with “growth, changes and learning,” Rizza could not have known that they would also be filled with travel, long phone calls and webcam chats in support of a brand-new relationship. But that’s exactly what happened, when she fell in love with Josh just a few weeks before their high-school graduation. After four long years, Josh accepted a job in Houston and moved back home after graduating from the University of Pennsylvania. “It took some time adjusting to this change, as we were both very independent individuals coming out of college,” Rizza admits. But their devotion to one another saw them through the toughest relationship challenges, and in September 2017, Josh proposed on Es Vedrà, “a mystical island off the coast of Ibiza, believed to be the tip of the lost city of Atlantis,” Rizza recounts. For their early fall wedding, the couple joined 320 friends and family members for a deeply spiritual church ceremony, followed by a celebration at The Bell Tower on 34th, filled with dining, dancing, and, in one of the bride’s favorite memories, “the groom crowd surfing at the end of the night!”

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PHOTO: L ARRY FAGAL A // LOCATION: THE POST OAK HOTEL // INES DI SANTO GOWN, MARIA ELENA HEADPIECE: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON // JEWELRY: TENENBAUM JEWELERS // STYLIST: SUMMAR SALAH MAKEUP: VCI ARTISTS AMBER LIVINGSTON, ANNA KALITA // HAIR: VCI ARTIST DENNIS CLENDENNEN

164 JEWELRY

180 W E D D I N G AT T I R E

218 B E A U T Y, H E A L T H + F I T N E S S

WE DDI NG STYLE //

T H E P E R F E C T L O O K F O R T H E B I G DAY

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PHOTO: LARRY FAGALA // LOCATION: THE POST OAK HOTEL GOWN: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON // JEWELRY: ZADOK JEWELERS STYLIST: SUMMAR SALAH // MAKEUP: VCI ARTISTS AMBER LIVINSTON, ANNA KALITA HAIR: VCI ARTIST DENNIS CLENDENNEN

| WEDDING STYLE

JEWELRY |

RULES OF THE

RI NG T H E R E A R E M A N Y WAY S T O P R E PA R E F O R W H AT I S L I K E L Y T H E M O S T I M P O R TA N T J E W E L R Y P U R C H A S E OF YOUR LIFE (SO FAR!). HERE ARE THE FIVE MOST IMPORTANT ONES, ACCORDING TO JEWELER AND F O U N D E R O F D I A M O N D I N F O R M A T I O N S I T E D I A M O N D T A L E S . C O M , C O N S TA N Z A V I E R A

RING TENENBAUM JEWELERS

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| WEDDING STYLE

JEWELRY |

K N OW W H AT YO U R S I G N I F I C A N T O T H E R

way you’ll be able to make the most of whatever amount you

W A N T S . Maybe you looked at rings together, maybe

spend. Every diamond shape is different and some shapes

you didn’t. If you didn’t visit the jeweler together, be on the

mask color and hide impurities better than others. Generally,

lookout for clues, style preferences…and DM’s. Yes! Direct

it is important to prioritize Cut for maximum sparkle, and

messages on social media are probably the best way your

compromise on Clarity, which means choosing a diamond

significant other can share with you her/his favorite ring

grade where you can’t see impurities with the naked eye.

styles and diamond shapes. Also: Know your SO’s ring size!

You’ll also want to ask for the diamond’s GIA (Gemological

If you don’t already know the size, ask his/her mother, sister

Institute of America) or AGS (American Gemological Soci-

or friend, or in desperate times,

ety) report, which documents the

trace one of your significant

stone’s qualities in detail.

other’s rings and bring it to your jeweler, who will know exactly

SELECT A GREAT JEWELER.

what to do with it. However you

It is very important to select a jew-

do it, be prepared to know what

eler/retailer you feel comfortable

style and ring size you want

with and one whom you trust. Af-

when you show up to your first

ter all, this person will make one

appointment.

of the most treasured pieces of jewelry you and your spouse will

DECIDE ON A BUDGET.

ever possess. Don’t hesitate to

The best way to make this pro-

reach out to private jewelers, too.

cess easier is to work back-

Bespoke rings are not necessarily

wards. The average engage-

more expensive than ready-to-buy

ment ring in the United States

rings. They can be made exactly

costs about $5,000, though

to your preferences—they just take

your ring price may increase

a little bit more time to craft. You

significantly depending on the

probably have eyed a few of these

size and quality of your center

custom designs if you’ve been re-

stone. You can also think about

searching the topic for some time.

your ring budget as equaling about two months salary, which is the generally accepted rule

Reach out to your jeweler to ask P H O T O : L A R R Y FA G A L A J E W E L R Y: Z A D O K J E W E L E R S

about bespoke design options, and make your decision based on

of thumb. Again, depending on how much you earn, and

your conversations with them, and the examples they show

whether or not you’ve been saving for months, this may mean

you, along with their credentials and certifications.

different amounts for your ring budget. Some jewelers and retailers do offer financing, so keep that in mind, too!

P R O T E C T Y O U R I N V E S T M E N T . You want to make sure to insure your ring, exactly as you would insure your

L E A R N A B O U T T H E F O U R C ’ S . The Four C’s stand

house, your car or any other major investment. Your signifi-

for Color, Clarity, Carat and Cut; these pieces of informa-

cant other will be wearing this ring forever, so it is extremely

tion will become your allies in your ring search. Depend-

important to get a replacement insurance policy through your

ing on your budget and what it allows for, you will have

preferred company; your jeweler most probably will be able

to prioritize some of these and compromise on others; this

to help you with this. You will not regret it!

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TRENDY 20/19

< PEAR CUT DIAM OND AURA RING

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

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Y ELLOW AND WHIT E . DIAM OND RING

Tenenbaum Jewelers tenenbaumjewelers.com

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REAL WEDDINGS

06.16.18

MR.& MR S. //SARAH & COLE//

COUPLE: Sarah Kuehn & William Cole Spencer | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 160 | WEDDING COLORS: Purple, Blue, Green, Coral & Pink COORDINATION, FLOWERS, DECOR & RENTALS: The Events Co. | CAKE & CATERING: Cordúa Catering | ENTERTAINMENT & LIGHTING: Royal Dukes Band REGISTRY: Kuhl-Linscomb | HONEYMOON: Mexico

PHOTOGRAPHY: Laura Sponaugle CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: The Parador / Façade / Belezza Hair International / Justin Ruiz Media

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 169

REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

arnold palmer or sour beer HER FAVORITE SWEET:

pumpkin pie and anything that cole bakes HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

cooking brunch, grilling on the patio or going on an urban sketch crawl

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his genuine, authentic and honest approach to love and to our relationship

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

dr pepper or whiskey sour HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

key lime pie

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

brunch, baking and movie date with my wife WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her commitment to usâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;no matter what may come our way, she has total confidence in our ability to overcome

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When Sarah and Cole first met, at a mentoring program for students interested in careers in design and/or construction, “It was love at first handshake—at least for me,” Sarah jokes. Encouraged by a friend, she asked Cole out to a Halloween event at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. That’s where he told her that he’d be moving to Atlanta in January for a PhD program. While she was upset at the news that Cole would be leaving soon, “I appreciated the up-front candor. No games, no nonsense. Just honesty,” Sarah says. In October 2017, while hiking near the Colorado cabin Sarah had inherited from her late father, Cole asked Sarah to marry him. “It was just the two of us in one of the most beautiful and meaningful places in my life, and the simplicity and thoughtfulness was absolutely perfect.” The couple wed in the presence of 160 loved ones, with a celebration inspired by Cole’s great-grandmother’s circa-1925 ring, with which he’d proposed to Sarah. The bride recounts with affection the “show-stopping arch made of fresh flowers and greenery,” created by The Events Co., which handled coordination, floral design and decor for the wedding. And she adds that she’ll never forget “dancing with my husband to ‘Midnight Train to Georgia’ as the last song,” and, finally, “getting to sit on a couch in the lobby of Hotel ZaZa and take it all in before meeting friends for an after-wedding cocktail in the hotel bar.”

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TRENDY 20/19

3 5

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 1

HOT! SOMETHING BLUE

1 . C A RV E D L A P IS AN D D I AMO N D BRAC E L ET Tenebaum Jewelers tenenbaumjewelers.com / 2. B LUE SAPPHIRE B AGUET T E AND DIAM ON D L AYER IN G C H A IN N E C K LA CE Penny Preville baileybanksandbiddle.com / 3. B LUE SAPPHIRE ART DECO NECK LACE Penny Preville baileybanksandbiddle.com 4 . S A P P H IR E EARRI N GS Oscar Heyman oscarheyman.com / 5. CEY LON SAPPHIRE RING Tenenbaum Jewelers tenenbaumjewelers.com 6 . SERPENT I B ANGLE Bvlgari zadok.com W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 173

REAL WEDDINGS

03.31.18

MR.& MR S. //CLAUDIA & TROY//

COUPLE: Claudia Tovar & Troy Ybarra | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 100 | WEDDING COLORS: White, Ivory & Gold COORDINATION, FLOWERS & DECOR: Events De Luxe | ENTERTAINMENT, LIGHTING & PHOTO BOOTH: LG Event Entertainment & Production HONEYMOON: Bora Bora

PHOTOGRAPHY: Juan Huerta Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: The Clubs At Houston Oaks / Vic & Anthonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Steakhouse / The Wedding Suite At Nordstrom

Adorne Artistry / River Oaks String Quartet / Mariachi Mi Mexico / Clear Lake Audio / By Design Films

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P H O TO : L AU RA GO RD O N

TRENDY 20/19

< POEM E C IR C L ET

Enchanted Atelier by Liv Hart livhart.com

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S >

AGATA C O MB

Boutique De Voile boutiquedevoile.com

HOT! HAIR ACCESSORIES

< Z OE HAIR PIN

Boutique De Voile boutiquedevoile.com

REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

champagne

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

red velvet cake from vic & anthony’s steakhouse HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

shopping and going out to eat with troy

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

he is my best friend—he empowers me and always lifts me up

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

vodka & cranberry

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

pecan pie

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

eating out and going to the movies or the galleria with claudia

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her wonderful spirit

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REAL WEDDINGS

Though they met through a mutual friend at a concert ages ago, it wasn’t until four years ago that Claudia and Troy reconnected, and became good friends. From there, love blossomed for the pair, and one fine day, Troy proposed at Houston’s famed water wall. “We both were so nervous and crying with happiness,” Claudia recalls. “I didn’t even put the ring on, I just said, ‘Yes!’ and jumped into his arms.” The bride says she loved planning her wedding, especially during the last two months leading up to the big day, when she began to focus on the music selections, seating chart, and food and drinks. That, and the series of professional dance lessons the pair took together, which offered, she says, “the perfect excuse to go on dates with my [now] husband.” For their wedding, Claudia worked with planning and design firm Events De Luxe to create a “less is more” atmosphere in a palette of white, ivory and gold. She notes the “French-village charm” and “beautiful natural waterfront” of her wedding site, adding, “From the beginning, we were so excited to say, ‘I do,’ in this romantic venue.”

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| WEDDING STYLE

WEDDING ATTIRE |

2019

Gown

TRENDS Wedding

FROM DREAMY BALLGOWNS TO CHIC JUMPSUITS, BRIDAL WEAR TAKES A BOLD TURN IN 2019.

With all of the different looks brides now have to choose from, the one thing that stands out

most is this message: Be true to your personal style. Here, we have rounded up our favorite looks from the 2019 bridal runway to help you say, “Yes!” to your perfect dress.

WRITER IVETTE MANNERS

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1.ELEGANT SHEATHS Ballgown and A-line silhouettes are not the only choices for a stunning wedding dress. Slimfitting sheaths in fluid satin or delicate lace also befit a fancy affair. As a reception dress, the figure-flattering sheath shape lets you transform your big-day look, if you chose a dramatic, voluminous gown for your ceremony. Sophisticated sheaths like a floral-appliquĂŠ tulle gown with an illusion neckline from Platinum by Demetrios and a flower-embellished, deep V-neck dress from the Romona Keveza Collection are black-tie-weddingworthy. All-over lace and embroidery on dresses, such as a long-sleeved, boho-inspired sheath with bell cuffs by Maggie

Sottero and a Blue by Enzoani embroidered-lace slip dress with Chantilly-lace appliquĂŠs, bring on the glam whether your celebration is in a ballroom or on the beach.

1. ATELIER PRONOVIAS DESIGNER AVAILABLE AT STEPHEN GRACE ATELIER

| WEDDING STYLE

WEDDING ATTIRE |

2 . F L O R A L F A N T A S Y Floral wedding dresses are an enduring bridal favorite, and designers are taking the look up a notch for 2019 with flurries of flowers detailing every type of gown silhouette. For example, a strapless ballgown by Monique Lhuillier features a bevy of blooms on the bodice and tiered skirt, while a V-neck tulle ballgown with a matching cape by Ines Di Santo shimmers with silver petals. A fit-and-flare gown with cap sleeves by Berta shows off embroidered 3-D flowers over an underskirt of shimmery tulle, and Reem Acra creates a garden of pink-and-blue-hued blossoms on a blush satin ballgown.

3 . C A P E S There is something super cool about a sheer or silk cape paired with a sleek or decadent wedding dress or jumpsuit. This multi-functional bridal accessory can take the place of or play up a gown’s train, add a bit of coverage, and change your entire bridal look. Make it reign like the queen you are in an Allison Webb shimmery cape over a coordinating shimmery sheath, or try out Demetrios’ embroidered-tulle hooded cape over a sweetheart fit-and-flare gown. Monique Lhuillier creates an ethereal vibe with an embroidered tulle A-line gown and graceful detachable cape; and Reem Acra shows that more is more with a bejeweled, embroidered cape, matching embroidered gown, and jewel-detailed full veil. 3. BIRENZWEIG DESIGNER AVAILABLE AT BELLE ÂME BRIDAL

2. ATELIER PRONOVIAS DESIGNER AVAILABLE AT STEPHEN GRACE ATELIER

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| WEDDING STYLE

WEDDING ATTIRE |

4 . O F F - T H E - S H O U L D E R S L E E V E S We love it when bridal designers introduce new necklines for wedding dresses. Sometimes bridal trends are borrowed from the ready-to-wear runway, but this season, bridal sets its own trends, with daintily draped sleeves. Turn on the charm with a beaded fit-and-flare gown with sculptured flowers-as-cap-sleeves by Atelier Pronovias. Or choose a touch of lace for off-the-shoulder sleeves, such as on a lace sweetheart A-line gown from Beautiful by Enzoani; a deep V-neck, lace-embroidered tulle fit-and-flare dress by Morilee; or a tiered tulle-skirt ballgown from Blush by Hayley Paige.

5 . U P D A T E D C L A S S I C As more brides are returning to tradition— thanks due in part to the Royal Wedding of our new favorite monarch, Meghan Markle—gowns with clean lines and architectural yet feminine details are in vogue. These classic-looking gowns are a reboot of the minimalist bridal style with precise tailoring that nips in waists and defines necklines. Sareh Nouri channels Audrey Hepburn with a silk pleated-skirt ballgown featuring a U-shaped neckline and the designer’s signature bow in the back, while Amsale brings on the modern-day starlet with a fit-to-flare gown boasting a princess-seamed bodice. A sleek one-shoulder sheath with a drapedbow detail from Beautiful by Enzoani can go from vows to after-party, and a 4. ATELIER PRONOVIAS DESIGNER AVAILABLE AT STEPHEN GRACE ATELIER

modified A-line gown with spaghetti straps and V-neckline by Kelly Faetanini 5. ATELIER PRONOVIAS DESIGNER AVAILABLE AT STEPHEN GRACE ATELIER

calls for an outdoor soiree.

6 . F O L D - O V E R N E C K L I N E Princess Eugenie was ahead of the trends when she chose her gown for her royal wedding this past fall. The fold-over, shoulder-grazing neckline—which is at once classic and contemporary—is one of the new looks bridal designers are bringing to the aisle. Sareh Nouri and Nouvelle Amsale take a tailored approach to the fold-over neckline with a silk ballgown and fit-and-flare, respectively. A lace fit-and-flare from Beautiful by Enzoani goes a little more romantic; and Hayley Paige cleverly pairs a one-shoulder, asymmetrical fold-over neckline on a two-piece, crop-top ballgown—a silhouette that is also on trend this season.

7. J U M P S U I T S The bridal jumpsuit, a popular second “dress” choice, has shown up in almost every designer’s latest collection. From sleek to sexy, this fashion-forward look is for the bride who wants to be carefree and comfortable while turning things up at her reception. Amsale’s Little White Dress collection offers the laid-back bride a wide-leg jumpsuit with pockets, dressed up with a sheer illusion back and silk-covered buttons for a chic touch; while Maggie Sottero’s lace-over-tulle jumpsuit with a straight-leg fit, cap sleeves and a detachable tulle overskirt is for the bride who loves low-key drama. If you want a glamorous version of the

6. AMSALE DESIGNER AVAILABLE AT JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON

7. NAEEM KHAN DESIGNER AVAILABLE AT JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON

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one-piece pant look, Demetrios’ silk jumpsuit with an illusion bodice is gorgeous for a formal engagement party, while Naeem Khan’s lace jumpsuit with detachable ruffle sleeves and tulle overskirt is all-out afterparty.

| WEDDING STYLE

WEDDING ATTIRE |

8 . DETAC HABLE SLEEVES

length chiffon sleeves that pull on like a shrug

Brides are loving convertible gowns

and blend into the gown’s train.

with detachable skirts and trains, which allow them to switch up their

9 . S P A R K L E A N D S H I N E Full-on bridal

look throughout the day. The latest

bling has given way to enchanting shimmer,

additions to this style are detachable

with glittery tulle, metallic embroidery, and

sleeves that look demure and sweet

dustings of crystal beading. These gowns

on, but once removed, reveal a totally

sparkle with your every move to enhance

different dress silhouette. Julie Vino and

your magical day. Allison Webb dresses up

Romona Keveza Collection introduced off-the-shoulder lace quarter sleeves in their latest collections and Ines Di Santo

a satin sheath with a sheer, sequined bodice, 8. ?????GOWN: 8. ATELIER PRONOVIAS

includes an embroidered strapless gown with detachable off-the-shoulder tulle poet sleeves in her new collection. A highlight from Atelier Pronovias’ latest collection is an embroidered mermaid gown featuring medieval-style, floor-

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while Berta turns up the wattage with an all9. BIRENZWEIG

over crystal-embroidered corseted ballgown. A Hayley Paige off-the-shoulder, long-sleeved

ballgown shines with scrolling metallic embroidery, while a Julie Vino V-neck ballgown with an illusion neckline and long sleeves twinkles in crystal-embroidered point d‘esprit.

REAL WEDDINGS

04.14.18

MR.& MR S. //ALICIA & COREY//

COUPLE: Alicia Stolte & Corey Corbit I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 275 I WEDDING COLORS: Neutrals, Pink, Coral & Burgundy VENUE: Hotel ZaZa Museum District I PHOTOGRAPHY: Kelli Durham Photography BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids I HONEYMOON: Italy

CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Ivory Bridal Atelier / Rice Village Diamonds / LJ Flower Co. World Catering Bakery / Sunkissed And Made Up / Lindsey Kidd / Password Music

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

iced tea

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

tiramisu

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

outdoors

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his goofy sense of humor

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

yellow gatorade

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

chocolate-chip cookies

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

with alicia

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her selflessness

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REAL WEDDINGS

“Corey proposed after work…when I least expected it,” remembers bride Alicia. “He lit lots of candles all over the apartment, which I later found out had to be blown out and re-lit twice because I was running late from work!” True love indeed waits for those who are patient and devoted. A worry-free wedding reception at Hotel ZaZa in Houston’s hip Museum District was just right for this easygoing couple, whose ethereal portraits and fun-loving reception images were beautifully captured by Kelli Durham Photography. “We wanted to keep things simple and elegant, but we also wanted that fun, bright flair,” says the bride, who describes a ballroom filled with vibrant pops of coral, pink and peach, and an energetic live band that kept their 275 guests dancing through the night. A springtime menu of babyspinach salad and chicken roulade was followed by vanilla-bean rum cake, with accompanying cookies and Blue Bell ice cream, in honor of the groom. “There were so many wonderful moments, it’s hard to choose just one or two favorites,” says the bride, “but the speeches given by our maid of honor and best man were so incredibly special.”

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 191

TRENDY 20/19

ANGELOU > TASSELED B AG C RY S TA L E MB EL L I S H ED > M I N AUD I ERE

Cult Gaia farfetch.com

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

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FLORENCE GLIT T ER CROSSB ODY CHAIN B AG

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192 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

Hues

PHOTOGRAPHER: SYLVIE GIL // FLOWERS, DECOR & STYLING: TODD EVENTS WARDROBE STYLING: SUMMAR SALAH // MAKEUP: VCI ARTIST VICTORIA CALLAWAY HAIR: VCI ARTIST DENNIS CLENDENNEN

| WEDDING STYLE

WEDDING ATTIRE |

dress The

SUMMER ST YLE Feminine pastels and citrus hues bring a fresh, cool feel when the weather turns warm.

NAEEM KHAN GOWN, NECKL ACE: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON // EARRINGS: NEIMAN MARCUS // RING: ZADOK JEWELERS

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WEDDING ATTIRE |

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 195

| WEDDING STYLE

cake

The

CAKE: CAKES BY GINA

196 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

WEDDING ATTIRE |

| WEDDING STYLE

“

WEDDING ATTIRE |

We are not your typical bridesmaids, we are your women of awesomeness.

GOWNS, L-R: TOOTSIE’S, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, NEIMAN MARCUS JEWELRY: ZADOK JEWELERS

”

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 197

The

details

| WEDDING STYLE

WEDDING ATTIRE |

TODD FISCUS

TODD EVENTS

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS Bring pops of color to your table, and mix dish patterns and styles, for an abundance of layering and detail. A cake with a watercolor painted finish is fresh and unexpected, especially when stacked in offset, square-edge tiers. Party favors of handmade marshmallows wrapped in watercolor paper make a fabulous take-home treat. Welcome your out-of-town guests with a split of rosĂŠ and a selection of sweets nestled in a balsa-wood box.

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 199

TRENDY 20/19

< H U G H ES EM B EL L ISH ED T- STR A P SA N DA L

Badgley Mischka

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200 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

05.19.18

MR.& MR S. //BAHAREH

JAMES//

COUPLE: Bahareh Jalalabadi & James Cox Flavin | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 300 | WEDDING COLORS: Blush, Rose, Ivory & Metallics PRE-WEDDING CELEBRATION: Armandos | REHEARSAL DINNER & WELCOME PARTY: The Dunlavy | FLOWERS: River Oaks Plant House WEDDING DRESS: Joan Pillow Bridal Salon | CAKE: Susie’s Cakes & Confections | POST-WEDDING BRUNCH: The Post Oak Hotel REGISTRY: Kuhl-Linscomb; Bering’s | HONEYMOON: France, Italy & Greece PHOTOGRAPHY: J. Cogliandro Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Houston Country Club / Belle Of The Ball / Royal Peyvand

31 Films / Alex & Amir Entertainment / Prime Systems / Ring Concierge Houston / Miles David / Lisa Pelayo / Christopher Michael Stribling 202 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

wine

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

chocolate cake & chocolate-chip cookies HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

coffee, enjoying the day with my husband, then a fun dinner with friends

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his ability to make me laugh through everything

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

tequila

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

carrot cake

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

working and hanging with my wife

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

she challenges me, and always makes me laugh

204 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

After a surprise proposal at the bride’s home, with family nearby to capture the moment on camera, Bahareh and James celebrated their union with a dazzling series of familycentered events. “I loved that the weekend was three full days of celebration,” says the bride. “Each day and night was so special, and so much fun!” After an intimate Catholic ceremony and family dinner on Thursday, the pair hit the town with a wider circle of friends, enjoying dancing and drinks at Armando’s. At Friday’s welcome party at The Dunlavy, guests mingled, relaxed and danced the night away beneath the twinkling chandeliers. The couple's Saturday wedding brought together 300 guests, and started with a traditional Persian ceremony, where the elaborate Sofreh Aghd featured pieces handmade by the bride's mother. For this very special occasion, Bahareh wore a magnificent high-necked Romona Keveza gown from Joan Pillow Bridal Salon. A lively reception followed, with a menu featuring filet mignon, Persian sweet rice and many desserts—including a show-stopping cake from Susie’s Cakes & Confections—plus late-night eats to fuel celebrating guests. A live band, brought in from New York, sang in four languages, and kept the crowd on their feet well into the wee hours. Notes the bride, “I wanted to do the whole weekend, especially Saturday night, a hundred times over again!”

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 205

shimmer &shape FIND THE BEST WEDDING GOWN FOR YOUR BODY AND STYLE, WITH THESE DRESS-SHOPPING TIPS!

WRITER NATASHA GARBER GOWN NETTA BEN SHABU DESIGNER AVAILABLE AT NOW & FOREVER BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

WRITER NATASHA GARBER GOWNS BERTA BRIDAL

| WEDDING STYLE

“

WEDDING ATTIRE |

Be confident, anticipating the incredible feeling of enjoying the happiest celebration of your life in the dress you were meant to wear.

”

P E T I T E & S M A L L - F R A M E D If you’re truly petite, the most

strapless, curve-hugging or full-skirted style. If that’s your thing, you

important rule for your wedding dress is not to overwhelm your

can and should. It’s all about smart selection and expert alterations.

delicate frame. After all, you want your fiancé and guests to notice

The gown you pick, whether ballgown style, A-line or fit-and-flare,

you, the bride, first and foremost, and your beautiful gown second.

should have excellent internal structure (budget gowns often lack a

Avoiding big, voluminous ballgowns is your best bet. But beyond

true interior frame, so beware when shopping) and full support. Your

this full-skirted style, there are tons of gown silhouettes—empire

alterations expert will work with you to ensure that your spotlight-

waist, slim-fitting deep-V, A-line—that will look awesome on you,

stealing gown fits you perfectly, and stays in place, all night long.

without overwhelming your diminutive frame.

Love the idea of a strapless stunner, but still want a bit of cover-

Style Suggestion: Drop Waist This elongating silhouette can do wonders to add height and enhance even the slightest curves. Choose a gown with a soft, flowing skirt or minimal tulle flounce, instead of a huge poof of material below the dropped seam.

age? Ask your tailor to create delicate sleeves (either permanent or detachable), embellished straps, or an elegant lace bolero you can cast aside before you hit the after-party with your besties in tow.

Style Suggestion: Grecian Goddess A chiffon or other flowing-material gown that fits snug under the bust and features asymmetrical

T A L L & S L E N D E R Yes, it’s true: Tall, slim brides have a slight

ruching across the bodice and a flowing skirt will emphasize your

advantage over teeny-tiny or super-curvy brides when it comes to

assets, slim your waist and enable you to move down the aisle and

gown selection. A tall, willowy body can rock a ballgown, shimmy

dance the night away, with effortless ease.

into a sleek sheath, stun in a ballerina style—even play off an ultracool bridal pantsuit. But tall, slender brides do have to be careful

P E A R - S H A P E D If your body is smaller on top and wider through

with sweetheart necklines (which need a bit of cleavage to hang

the hips and thighs, you’re in the majority of brides. Which means

on to) and body-con mermaid styles (which may end up bagging

you have a huge variety of gowns available to choose from, since

around slender waists and narrow hips).

designers are well versed in the prevalence of this shape. Whatever

Style Suggestion: Tea Length Long-legged brides with narrow ankles and calves can turn heads by walking the aisle in a shorter dress that shows off their calves. This hem length usually hits right

gown silhouette you choose, look for a style that focuses embellishment and accents on the neckline and bodice section of the dress, to create balance and draw focus upward.

around mid-shin, and is perfect for tall brides with a taste for Old

Style Suggestion: Ballerina Gown This on-trend style, which typi-

Hollywood glamour, or vintage style. And don’t forget to focus on

cally features spaghetti straps, a deep-V bodice and a full (but not

your footwear: This style will reveal your beautiful bridal shoes in

ballgown-full) skirt, is a fabulous choice for young, fashion-forward

all their glory!

brides. For flatter chests, the deep-V neckline allows for elongation and tons of embellishment, which can be echoed in elaborate back

B U S T Y & V O L U P T U O U S Listen up, curvy girls: This is your

details, while the layered, full skirt de-emphasizes thighs and hips,

moment to shine. Do not for one moment think you can’t wear a

and offers movement and elegance.

// SHOPPING T I P // Let your salon consultant guide you on the path to “perfect.” Remember, you’ve only done the wedding-dress-choosing thing once—she’s helped countless different-shaped brides do it hundreds of times. While going into your salon appointment with ideas and photos is A-OK, your consultant might take one look at you and instantly think about several dresses that would look fabulous on you, but are totally different from what you’d had in mind. Be flexible. Be receptive. Be realistic. And be confident, anticipating the incredible feeling of enjoying the happiest celebration of your life in the dress you were meant to wear.

208 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

HAYLEY PAIGE // DESIGNERAVAILABLE AT NOW & FOREVER BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

BLUE BY ENZOANI // DESIGNER AVAILABLE AT PARVANI VIDA BRIDAL & FORMAL

ATELIER PRONOVIAS DESIGNER AVAILABLE AT STEPHEN GRACE ATELIER

ALLISON WEBB // DESIGNER AVAILABLE AT NOW & FOREVER BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 209

G OW N : M A R CHE S A J E W E L R Y : Z A D OK JE WE LE RS

Gorgeous

GOWNS ON LOC ATION AT THE POS T OAK HOTEL FEATURING THE EVENTS CO.

LOCATION: THE POST OAK HOTEL / DESIGN, FLOWERS, DECOR + RENTALS: THE EVENTS CO. / JEWELRY: ZADOK JEWELERS, TENENBAUM JEWELERS PHOTOGRAPHY: LARRY FAGALA / STYLING: SUMMAR SALAH / MAKEUP & HAIR: VCI ARTISTS AMBER LIVINGSTON, ANNA KALITA, DENNIS CLENDENNEN

L EA - A N N B E LT E R G OWN: BE LLE Ã&#x201A;ME BRI DAL // E ARRI N GS: NEIMA N MA RCUS / / FLOWERS & BOUQUET: THE EVENTS CO.

| WEDDING STYLE

WEDDING ATTIRE |

R E EM AC RA GOWN: JOAN PI LLOW BRI DA L SA LON E A RRI N GS: NE I MAN MARC US

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 213

| WEDDING STYLE

N ETTA B E N S HA B U G OW N: N OW & FO RE VE R BRI DAL BO UT I Q U E J EW EL RY: Z A D O K J E W E L E R S // BO UQ UE T & H E ADPI E C E : T H E EVENTS CO.

214 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

WEDDING ATTIRE |

VERA WA N G G OWN : N EIMA N MA RCUS FLORA L NEC KL ACE: THE EVEN TS CO.

L IA N ROKMA N GOWN : S TEP H EN GR ACE ATEL I ER JEWEL RY: ZA DOK JEWELER S / / DR ESSER SET: BER I N Gâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; S FLOWERS & D ECOR: THE EVENTS CO .

N ETTA B E N S HA B U G OW N: N OW & FO RE V E R BRI DAL BO UT I Q UE M ARI A E L E N A HE A D P IE CE : JOAN PI LLOW BRI DAL SALO N J EW EL RY: T E N E N BAUM J E WE LE RS // BO UQ UE T: T H E E V E NTS CO.

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 215

| WEDDING STYLE

B LU E BY E N Z OA N I G OW N: PARVANI V I DA BRI DAL & FO RMAL J EW EL RY: Z A D O K J E W E L E RS // BO UQ UE T: T H E E VE NTS CO . BEN TL E Y: P OS T OA K M OTO R C ARS LT D.

216 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

WEDDING ATTIRE |

IN ES D I SA NTO GOWN , MA RIA EL ENA HEA DPIECE: JOAN P I L L O W BR I DAL SALO N JEWEL RY: TEN EN B A UM JEWEL ERS

JUL IE VIN O G OWN : S TEPHEN G R ACE ATEL I ER EA RRIN GS: NEIMA N MA RCUS / / BOUQUET: THE EVENTS CO .

| WEDDING STYLE

BEAUTY, HEALTH + FITNESS |

// A H E A D F O R //

S TYLE

T I A R A : M A R I A E L E N A - AVAI L ABLE AT JOAN PI LLOW BRI DA L SA LON

COMB : MA RIA EL EN A - AVA IL A B L E AT JOA N PIL LOW BR I DAL SALO N

TRANSFORM YOUR BRIDAL LOOK WITH A BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED, PERFECTLY POSITIONED HEADPIECE OR HAIR ACCESSORY, LIKE THESE STYLISH BRIDES!

218 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

| WEDDING STYLE

BEAUTY, HEALTH + FITNESS |

C O M B S The trick with bridal hair combs lies in perfect placement, and coordinating your comb style with additional accessories, for a harmonious, effortless look. Affix a larger, jeweled comb to the swept-up side of a side-swept downdo; sprinkle smaller floral or vine-motif combs through a boho braid or tousled up-do; or tuck a sparkling comb with attached veil into the underside of a full bun.

HEA D BA ND : MA RIA EL EN A AVA IL A B L E AT JOA N PIL LOW B RIDA L SALO N

CO M B: M A R IA E L E N A AVAI L A B L E AT J OA N P I L LOW BRI DAL SALO N

H A L O S & H E A D B A N D S Place a double headband on the crown of your head for a touch of light-catching sparkle. Bring your headband down to encircle your forehead for a nod to 1920s glamour or Renaissance-era elegance. Or choose a headband with an elaborate flourish at the back, and nestle that section against the top of your loose ponytail, braid or nape-bun.

22 0 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

| WEDDING STYLE

BEAUTY, HEALTH + FITNESS |

accessory. Tiaras and crowns are best worn without additional high-powered bling (keep the earrings and other jewelry delicate and refined), and are most appropriately worn with classic, formal gowns. Beyond that, you can rock a crown with almost any hairstyle, from high up-do’s; to elaborate twist styles; to long, sleek, wavy locks.

C ROW N : M A R IA E L E N A - AVA IL A BLE AT JOAN PI LLOW BRI DAL SALO N

CROWN: MA RIA EL EN A AVA IL A B L E AT JOA N PIL LOW BR I DAL SALO N

T I A R A S & C R O W N S If you’ve fantasized what it might feel like to wear an honest-togoodness royal headpiece, we’ve got one thing to say to you: Yaass, queen! There’s no occasion like your wedding to make an entrance in full-on finery fit for a royal—as long as your overall bridal look can carry off this dramatic

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 221

| WEDDING STYLE

BEAUTY, HEALTH + FITNESS |

// S E A S O NA L B R I DA L //

S K I N CA R E Summers so hot and humid your makeup

showers, when the skin is soft but not wet. Use a

practically slides off your face the minute you

humectant moisturizer after sloughing, to draw in

step outside. Winters that come on suddenly,

water from the air, and seal it into your skin.

with chafing winds and biting cold. And a couple of brief in-between seasons that last a few weeks and bring a rollercoaster of weather swings. This is Houston’s climate pattern, and it can be a challenging one for brides-to-be who want to make sure their skin is at its best for their big day. But starting your pre-wedding skincare regimen early, and making small but important changes with the changing seasons, will ensure that your skin is as smooth, soft and nourished as it can be, from head to toe, on your wedding day and every day of the year.

WINTER SKINCARE

Baby, it’s cold outside…

YES, even in Houston. Cloudy skies, chilly rain and the occasional frost all are par for the course when it comes to Houston winters. Protect your skin against the season’s weather, and the indoor heating that inevitably comes with it, by maintaining your water intake, eating right (those greasy comfort foods you’re tempted to warm up with can be devastating for your skin) and avoiding drying peels or facial treatments. Pro Tip: Incorporate oil into your routine. Contrary to what you may think, applying oils to your skin

FALL SKINCARE

While cooler temps and

lower humidity can feel like an enormous relief after months of sweltering heat, fall’s abrupt weather change can play havoc with skin— especially sensitive skin. Make sure to keep a full water bottle by your side, and a luxurious, super-enriched hand cream in your handbag, in your desk drawer and on your bedside table.

does not make your skin oily, as long as you choose the right kind of oil. Jojoba, avocado, marula, argan and coconut oils all have natural antioxidants and essential fatty acids that nourish the skin while fighting irritation. If you are prone to acne, do a patch test first with any new oil, to make sure it doesn’t cause or exacerbate an outbreak.

Pro Tip: Treat your feet with TLC. One of the

P H OTO : L A RRY FAGA L A

22 4 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

biggest skin changes Houstonians experience

SPRING SKINCARE Things are heating up in

as summer gives way to fall is a sudden

Houston…but not too much. Springtime is for

dryness in cuticles and heels. Combat this

outdoor activities, patio brunches, poolside

common problem by sloughing your heels

barbecues and all manner of fun in the sun.

gently with a pumice stone or paddle after

Which means more exposure to UV rays, more

| WEDDING STYLE

BEAUTY, HEALTH + FITNESS |

mimosas and margaritas, and an increased

thing: While our swampy summers can be

Once you mix perspiration into this blend,

need for extra hydration, both internally and

brutal for day-to-day activity, those damp,

you’re left with a slippery slick of stuff that

topically.

humid days and nights can actually be a

won’t stay in place, and will inevitably clog

Pro Tip: Slather on the SPF! We can’t stress

blessing for skin!

your pores. Instead, let nature’s own

enough the importance of this one, as winter

Pro Tip: Avoid layering products. Moisturizer

moisture do much of your skincare work,

gives way to sunny spring. Apply sunscreen

plus sunscreen plus foundation can be a

and switch to a lightweight tinted moisturizer

daily, as part of your morning skincare and

tricky combo in summer’s damp, heavy heat.

with SPF 50+ built in.

makeup routine. Make sure it’s a minimum of SPF 50, and made for your face, without pore-clogging elements. And don’t forget your neck, ears, shoulders, arms and hands!

SUMMER SKINCARE Ah,

summer

Houston. Cue the triple-digit heat index numbers, pounding thunderstorms and 90-percent-humidity days. But here’s the

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 225

TRENDY 20/19

B E E C HI C > DIA M O N D E A RRINGS

Birks maisonbirks.com

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HY DRO CLEANSE > NO. 2 HONEY FACIAL CLEANSER

Marla Rene Luxe Skincare cocotique.com 166

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H ON EYF L AV OR ED RYE WH ISKEY

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22 6 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

catskillprovisions.com

BRIDE Texas

WEDDING VENUE: MOFFITT OAKS / PHOTOGRAPHY: JESSICA FREY PHOTOGRAPHY STATIONERY, DESIGN + COORDINATION: EVENTS DE LUXE / DECOR, FLOWERS & RENTALS: RAOFACTOR M A K E U P & HA I R : E T O I L L Y AR T I S T R Y / GO W N S : P A R V A N I VI D A BR I D A L & FO R M A L C A K E : E D I B L E DE S I G N S / LI N E N S : E B IN C . EV E N T RE N T A L S / TA B L E T O P : B E R I N G ' S / VI D E O G R A P H Y : R E V E R E N T WE D D I N G FI L M S

| WEDDING STYLE

22 8 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

BEAUTY, HEALTH + FITNESS |

| WEDDING STYLE

BEAUTY, HEALTH + FITNESS |

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| WEDDING STYLE

23 0 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

BEAUTY, HEALTH + FITNESS |

VENUE: MOFFITT OAKS / COORDINATION, PLANNING + STATIONERY: EVENTS DE LUXE PHOTOGRAPHY: JESSICA FREY PHOTOGRAPHY / FLOWERS: RAOFACTOR / LINENS: EB INC. EVENT RENTALS / TABLETOP: BERINGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MAKEUP & HAIR: ETOILLY ARTISTRY / WEDDING CAKE: EDIBLE DESIGNS / CINEMATOGRAPHY: REVERENT WEDDING FILMS GOWNS, VEIL, HEADPIECE, EARRINGS: PARVANI VIDA BRIDAL & FORMAL

| WEDDING STYLE

BEAUTY, HEALTH + FITNESS |

& hair

makeup

FLO R A L HE A D P IE C E & BO UQ UE T : T H E E VE NT S C O . / / JEWEL RY: ZA DOK JEWEL ERS / / G OWN : N OW & FOREVER BRIDA L B OUT I Q U E P HOT O: L A R R Y FAGAL A // M AKE UP: VC I ART I ST S AMB ER L IVINGSTON , A NN A KA L ITA / / HA IR: VCI A RTIST D EN NIS CL EN DEN NEN

23 2 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

| WEDDING STYLE

BEAUTY, HEALTH + FITNESS |

ETO I LLY A RT I S T RY P H OTO: J E S S I C A FR E Y P HOTO GRAPH Y

KISS AND MAKEUP HOUSTON PHOTO: PEDIGO PHOTOGRAPHY

2BPURE BY LAUREN FALLS MAKEUP & HAIR PHOTO: ADAM NYHOLT

ANN A K A L I T A , A M B E R L I V I NGST O N D EN N I S CL E N D E N N E N V C I ART I ST S P H O TO : L A R R Y FA G A L A

A M BE R LI VIN GSTON , A NN A KA L ITA , D E NNI S CL EN DEN NEN VCI A RTIS TS P H O T O : L ARRY FA G A L A

PRIMP AND BLOW PHOTO: PIXEL DUST PHOTOGRAPHY

WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM

/ 233

TRENDY 20/19

> PROLIT E Y OGA M AT

Manduka

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< PR OF ESSION A L SER IES 750 B L EN DER

Vitamix

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WHAT’S

A P P L E WAT C H H E RMÈ S DO U B L E T O U R I N IN DIG O / O RA N G E

Apple

HOT!

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FITNE S S LOVER

< IN DOOR E X ER C ISE B IKE

Peloton

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< I VO I RE C H E ETAH WATER BO TTL E

S’well

swellbottle.com

23 4 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

03.25.18

MR.& MR S. //JENNIFER

DY L A N / /

COUPLE: Jennifer Worrell & Dylan Steinbach | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 125 | WEDDING COLORS: Gray, Blue & Metallics CAKE: Cakes By Gina | FLOWERS: Blooms Design Studio | RENTALS: EB Inc. Event Rentals ENTERTAINMENT, LIGHTING & SOUND: LG Event Entertainment & Production | HONEYMOON: Honduras & Mexico

PHOTOGRAPHY: Alexander Cross Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: The Vine At New Ulm / Lean On Me Events / Love Birds Vintage

The Hometown Chef Catering Co. / Amanda Haley Hair Co. / Dollface Studio

WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

sweet tea or dirty martini HER FAVORITE SWEET:

anything chocolate

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

with my family or in my pjâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his patience and his heart

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

dr pepper or rum & coke HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

chocolate mousse

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

with my wife

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

the way she loves other people, and how selfless she is

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REAL WEDDINGS

Dylan and Jennifer were just kids when he moved into the house next door to hers and quickly became best friends with her little brother. And while they didn’t start dating until years later, once the romance sparked between them, they became inseparable. For their spring wedding, Jennifer, who happens to be the lead wedding designer for HEB’s event-design offshoot, Blooms Design Studio, wanted something completely different from “the typical wedding that you see often,” she says. Most important to both bride and groom was color—and lots of it. From the bride’s bountiful, bright bouquet, to the vibrant vines, petals and butterflies sprinkled throughout their tabletop designs, the couple’s wedding reflected their emphasis on fun and festivity. And it was deeply personal, too: “We both loved having my brother officiate. He is like my twin, and he is Dylan’s best friend. We were fighting about whose side he would be on. Then they came up with the idea for him to officiate us,” setting into motion one of the most cherished moments of the couple's wedding.

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PHOTO: LARRY FAGALA // FLORAL NECKLACE: THE EVENTS CO. LOCATION: THE POST OAK HOTEL // ST YLIST: SUMMAR SALAH FLOWERS, DECOR & STYLING: TODD EVENT MAKEUP: VCI ARTISTS AMBER LIVINGSTON, ANNA KALITA // HAIR: VCI ARTIST DENNIS CLENDENNEN S

240 F L O W E R S , D E C O R & R E N TA L S

2 76 CAKES & CULINARY

308 I N V I TAT I O N S , R E G I S T R Y & FAV O R S

FINER //

D E TA I L S

THE COUNTDOWN HAS BEGUN! ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TIME TO FOCUS ON THE FINE DETAILS AND UNIQUE ELEMENTS THAT WILL MAKE YOUR CELEBRATION PERSONAL AND UNFORGETTABLE. FROM FOOD TO FLOWERS, LIGHTING TO ENTERTAINMENT, DECOR TRENDS TO EXCLUSIVE FINDS, DISCOVER YOUR DESIGN DETAILS HERE.

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P H O T O : L ARRY FAGAL A / / ST Y LING: SUMMAR SAL AH // EARRIN GS : N E I M AN M AR C US M AK EUP: V CI A RT IST S AMBER LIVING STON, ANNA K ALITA // HAIR: VC I AR TI S T D E N N I S C LE N D E N N E N

// T H E D O ’ S & D O N ’ T S O F W E D D I N G //

D E S IGN H E R E ’ S W H AT T O A S K F O R F R O M Y O U R W E D D I N G S T Y L I S T A N D D E S I G N T E A M , A S Y O U N A V I G A T E T H E CREATIVE PROCESS, SIDE BY SIDE.

BO U Q U E T T H E E V E N TS CO . : LO C AT I O N T H E P O S T OA K H OT E L

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// DON’T BE AFRAID TO // ask for something special. While it’s important to be realistic and practical with your design, it’s also important to dream big and fulfill a few fantasies. This is your wedding, after all!

DO work with your venue style, not against it. Your wedding design team will guide you on how to do this effectively, both in terms of aesthetics and cost. But you can start by choosing a wedding venue that will work with your theme, or the “feel” you want for your wedding. Dreaming of a lavish, flower-filled affair with hanging elements, overhead (“flown”) floral arrangements and tall centerpieces? Choose a venue with high enough ceilings to allow for decor intrigue, and plenty of space to accommodate towering table arrangements, so that guests can talk around them, and not through a huge explosion of flowers. Hoping for something more low-key and rustic-chic, to match your boho-elegant vibe? Find a space with exposed brick or wood elements, lower ceilings and plenty of windows to let in natural light. Then let your designer enhance your space with box centerpieces, or a mix of high and low arrangements, along with plenty of candles, which can be lit once daylight gives way to night.

DON’T forget the side spaces. Whatever venue you choose, don’t overlook oft-neglected areas like bars, cocktail tables, lounges and restrooms. You want your guests to feel both comfortable and delighted, pretty much everywhere they turn at your big event. So talk to your florist about creating smaller arrangements that echo your centerpieces, and place these on beverage stations, coffee tables, bar-high cocktail tables and restroom counters, accompanied by glowing votives and sweet signage, if you’d like.

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DO have an understanding of what’s feasible for you. If you’re like pretty much every single bride on the planet, you’ve saved at least a few inspo photos of wedding floral, decor and furnishing ideas you love. OK, so maybe you have 197 wedding-related Pinterest boards, in every design category, each with multiple themes and color schemes. Whether you’re obsessed with wedding design or willing to let your planner and decorator take the wheel almost entirely, it’s really important to understand what can be duplicated or created within your venue, budget, guest group size…and the bounds of human possibility. Show your designer your photos, and make sure to tell him or her not just that you love this centerpiece, or that tablescape, or bouquet, but what you love about it. Your floral expert may point out that an overflowing 50-foot-long table runner made completely of fresh peonies A) doesn’t leave room for plates or glasses or anything that people actually need in order to eat and drink, and B) will cost a fortune (and feature blooms that are not at peak season) for your December wedding. If it’s the long, continuous floral and the banquet table shape you love about the pic you shared, well…it may be entirely possible to fulfill your dream with an arrangement that’s more conducive to dining, and better suited to the surroundings and time of year. Your job is to voice your dream—your design team’s job is to bring it to (real) life. And don’t forget: Demanding that a talented decorator duplicate an image can seriously compromise their creativity. Instead, use your images to share your tastes and then let them do their job: designing and creating something unique, just for you!

DON’T be afraid to ask for something special. While it’s important to be realistic and practical with your wedding design, it’s also important to dream big and fulfill a few fantasies. This is your wedding after all—the most important, most memorable party of your life. You want it to be an extraordinary experience not just for you and your partner, but also for your parents, extended family and closest friends. Got a soft spot for hummingbirds, or butterflies or seahorses? Ask your decorator to subtly incorporate these into your design

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scheme—perhaps through a linen pattern, a whimsical topiary, a “chandelier” or dance-floor decal. Crazy for antique shopping, retro fashion or historic homes? Ask your designer to source antiqued frames and vessels, mercury glass, Edison bulbs and mixed-pattern china, and work with flowers in soft, sepia-tone shades. Want your entire reception room to change colors over the course of the evening? Chat with your wedding planner about bringing in a specialty lighting company that can wash your ballroom in any color, in any intensity you want, or transform it entirely into a forest of subtly curling leaves and vines, via custom wall projections.

DO keep up with trending color palettes and design ideas…but DON’T be a slave to them. We all want to know about trends, some of us want to follow them, and…heck, some of us want to set them. But more than anything, your wedding is a celebration of who you and your partner are as a couple—what you love, what you care about, what you want to express…not a demonstration of what’s trendy right now, in this moment (and destined to look dated 20 or 30 years down the road). So go ahead, discover those emerging wedding design trends—in colors, themes, props, textures, furniture styles, decor accents—but rework and refine them for your wedding so that they reflect your personality. Your expert design staff, whether it’s an artisan florist with one talented assistant in tow, or an entire team of stylists, builders, arrangers and installers, will help you do this, and, if you’ve chosen wisely, surprise you with a celebration space that’s everything you’ve always dreamed, and so much more than you ever could have imagined.

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REAL WEDDINGS

08.04.18

MR.& MR S. //STEPHANIE & DREW//

COUPLE: Stephanie Marichal & Andrew ‟Drew” Reuss Oldis | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 200 | WEDDING COLORS: Rose, Gray & Gold VENUE: The Astorian | PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY: Ama By Aisha | DECOR, FLOWERS & RENTALS: Plants N’ Petals | CATERER: Cordúa Catering WEDDING DRESS: Now & Forever Bridal Boutique | CAKE: Cakes By Gina | BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids ENTERTAINMENT, LIGHTING & PHOTO BOOTH: LG Event Entertainment & Production | FAVORS: Tiff’s Treats | HONEYMOON: Italy CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Harper Events / Adorne Artistry / Reiner’s Fine Jewelry / Dromgoole ’s / Mike’s Dance Floor Rentals

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

blueberry jalapeño margarita HER FAVORITE SWEET:

cookie-dough ice cream

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

spin class, followed by brunch and shopping

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his sense of humor–he always knows how to make me laugh

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

whiskey ginger

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

cheesecake or sour gummies HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

golf, followed by college football and a dinner date with my wife

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her smile–it gets me every time

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REAL WEDDINGS

A morning hike to the top of Enchanted Rock in the Texas Hill Country peaked with Drew’s heartfelt proposal to Stephanie (with a celebration at a local winery to follow). The UT Austin college sweethearts soon began their Houston wedding planning in earnest, snagging coveted venue The Astorian, and floral design firm Plants N’ Petals, to create their “ethereal dream” of a wedding. “The greenery and florals adorning the ceiling completely

transformed

the

venue,”

says

Stephanie.

“We

incorporated subtle Art Deco touches which paired perfectly with The Astorian.” After dining on truffle-grilled-cheese bites and beef tenderloin provided by Cordúa Catering, and strawberryamaretto cake from Cakes By Gina, the pair danced the evening away with their loved ones. Sharing an intimate last dance under the twinkling lights to “At Last,” by Etta James, was “a special way to take in the final moments of our wedding,” the bride says. Warm cookie favors by Texas favorite Tiff’s Treats and a joyful sparkler sendoff completed their magical evening.

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REAL WEDDINGS

11.19.17

MR.& MR S. //SARAH & MOHSIN//

PHOTOGRAPHY: Vellora Productions CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Who Made The Cake / Mike’s Dance Floor Rentals

AFR Furniture Rental / Michael’s Cookie Jar / Chocolate Fountain Express / Macaron By Patisse / Elite Beauty Co.

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

dr pepper

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

chocolate-chip cookies

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

watching movies and ordering takeout with my husband

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his smile

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

cherry icee

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

blue bell vanilla ice cream HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

watching movies with my wife

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her beautiful eyes

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REAL WEDDINGS

When Hurricane Harvey left many of their families’ and friends’ homes and businesses flooded, and out-of-town guests unable to travel to Houston, Sarah and Mohsin had no choice but to reschedule their planned Labor Day 2017 weekend of wedding festivities. Fortunately for them, “Kat Creech was the best wedding planner—she handled everything!” Sarah says. When their newly scheduled November wedding date arrived, it brought with it “a monochromatic white masterpiece fit for royalty, but designed for the humblest, kindest couple in the world,” Creech says. “When we walked into The Ballroom at Bayou Place to take pictures before the guests entered, we were overwhelmed—it was absolutely breathtaking,” Sarah recounts. “We were so taken aback that our hearts were beating fast, and we had to compose ourselves.” The couple’s stunning main event followed multiple days of celebrating, including a festive mehendi party and traditional Pakistani ceremony, and was, in a word, “magical,” the bride says. “Our favorite part was dancing with our friends and family. We felt so loved!”

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REAL WEDDINGS

0 7. 1 5 . 1 7

MR.& MR S. //KIRSTEN & ANDREW//

COUPLE: Kirsten Kloeppel & Andrew Martin | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 250 | WEDDING COLORS: White, Green, Gray & Blue VENUE: Moffitt Oaks | FLOWERS: Haute Flowers & Events | INVITATIONS & REGISTRY: Bering’s | REHEARSAL DINNER: Hotel ZaZa Museum District HONEYMOON: St. Lucia PHOTOGRAPHY: Hannah Mayson Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Sissy’s Sweets / Who Made The Cake / Whittington Bridal

Beautiful U / The Wedding Suite At Nordstrom / JPL Entertainment

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

rosé

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

chocolate-chip cookies

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

movie night with my husband

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his eternal optimism, and his ability to make me laugh through any situation

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

old fashioned

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

graeter’s black-raspberry chocolate-chip ice cream HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

hanging out with my wife and friends at a local bar

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her sense of humor, her kindness and her smile

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REAL WEDDINGS

Though they met during their sophomore year at Texas A&M, Kirsten and Andrew didn’t really get to know one another until one fateful Fourth of July party the summer after they graduated. “We drove there and back together, and just spent the whole time laughing and finding how much we weirdly had in common,” Kirsten recounts. On the evening of Aug. 13, 2016, at a park overlooking the twinkling Houston skyline, “Andrew asked me the easiest question I’ve ever had to answer,” Kirsten says. Eleven months later, the couple celebrated their union as husband and wife in the Barn at Moffitt Oaks. “The rustic atmosphere with the string lights and our beautiful flowers and greenery”—courtesy of Haute Flowers & Events—“just made for the prettiest setting!” And while the couple loved “dancing the night away with our families and friends,” it was during the private moments—especially the first look and first dance—where, Kirsten says, “we could be alone, and appreciate the whole night, together.”

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O L VE“

“

A STORYBOOK WEDDING

WEDDING VENUE: JULIA IDESON LIBRARY

/ P H O T O G R A P H Y : A D A M N Y H O L T, P H O T O G R A P H E R

DESIGN, DECOR, FLOWERS & RENTALS: SWIFT + CO.

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O L VE“

“

True

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VENUE: JULIA IDESON LIBRARY / DESIGN, FLOWERS, DECOR + RENTALS: SWIFT + CO. / PHOTOGRAPHY: ADAM NYHOLT MAKEUP & HAIR: 2B PURE HAIR & MAKEUP BY LAUREN FALLS / GOWNS & ACCESSORIES: STEPHEN GRACE ATELIER WEDDING CAKE: SUSIE’S CAKES & CONFECTIONS / BRIDE’S ENGAGEMENT RING: ZADOK JEWELERS

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// THE BRIDAL //

BOUQUET DREAM BOUQUET PHOTO: FULLEYLOVE PHOTOGRAPHY

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THE EVENTS CO. PHOTO: LARRY FAGALA // JEWELRY: ZADOK JEWELERS // MARCHESA GOWN:

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D2R DESIGN HOUSE PHOTO: AMBER CHARLES PHOTOGRAPHY

RIVER OAKS PLANT HOUSE PHOTO: J. COGLIANDRO PHOTOGRAPHY

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HAUTE BOUQUET: + CO. SWIFT

FLOWERS & EVENTS

PHOTO: ADAM NYHOLT, PHOTOGRAPHER // GOWN: STEPHEN GRACE ATELIER

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LOOSE & GLENWOOD WEBER DESIGN

HAUTE FLOWERS & EVENTS

PHOTO: WEDDINGS BY ALEFIYA

PHOTO: HANNAH MAYSON PHOTOGRAPHY

LOVELY Greenery, vines and hand-tied stems give bouquets a fresh, organic feel.

RAOFACTOR

BLOOMS DESIGN STUDIO

PHOTO: JESSICA FREY PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: ALEXANDER CROSS PHOTOGRAPHY

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EVENTS DE LUXE PHOTO: CIVIC PHOTOS

DREAM BOUQUET PHOTO: STEPHANIA CAMPOS PHOTOGRAPHY

TODD EVENTS

PLANTS Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; PETALS

PHOTO: SYLVIE GIL

PHOTO: AMA BY AISHA

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/ / L AT E N I G H T //

BITE S D I G I N T O T H E S E U N E X P E C T E D A N D T O TA L LY D E L I C I O U S “ M I N I - PA I R I N G S ” FEATURING COMFORT-FOOD FAVES AND REFRESHING SIPS.

ALFAJORES BY CORDÚA CATERING

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MINI

GRILLED-CHEESE

SANDWICHES

T O M A T O S O U P Nothing evokes childhood lunches like the combo of crispy, melty, savory grilled-cheese sandwiches and tangy tomato soup. Kick it up a notch with artisan breads and gourmet cheeses such as gruyere, English cheddar or smoky gouda, alongside “shooters” of basil-spiked tomato soup. S O F T P R E T Z E L S & C R A F T B E E R The pairing of warm, chewy, salt-crusted soft pretzels and a selection of small-brewery or local beers is an awesome add-on to the post-ceremony cocktail reception, or as a late-night snack. Have a server on hand to hand-dip fresh pretzels in coarse sea salt, and serve with an array of fancy mustards, for extra yum! BACON PUFFY BEET TOSTADA WITH CREMA AND OSETRA CAVIAR CATERING: ARMANDOS // PHOTO: LE ZU PHOTOGRAPHY

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“FLIGHTS”

B LO O DY

MARYS

Welcome the wee hours at your reception with a late-night surprise of bacon flights (small plates laid out with individual

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strips of different gourmet bacon varieties: applewood-smoked, jalapenospiked, maple-glazed, for example). Serve with made-to-order or DIY Bloody Marys for an early-morning “brunch” treat your guests will love. T A C O S & M A R G A R I T A S Downsize this classic Texas food-and-drink pairing into small bites of spicy goodness and tart, tequila-infused refreshment. Serve your margs in mini tequila bottles accessorized with striped paper straws, and give guests their choice of tiny tacos with fillings such as carnitas, grilled chicken or carne asada. S L I D E R S & S U D S Filet mignon might be what’s on the menu for your main reception meal. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have burgers, too! A sliders-and-brews station is always a favorite with guests, who can amp up their mini burgers with their choice of condiments, and wash down their sliders with an ice-cold lager or pilsner, served in a mini “pint” glass. F R I E D C H I C K E N & R O O T - B E E R F L O A T S A little bite of crispy, juicy, home-style fried chicken. A small sip of creamy, fizzy root-beer float to follow. What could be better than that? Give your floats a boozy kick with the addition of bourbon, or by substituting the root beer with a velvety cream stout. Or swap your root beer for Dr Pepper, for a unique Texas taste! PL ANTAINS + SALSA // CORDÚA CATERING

CHURROS BAR // CAFÉ NATALIE

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// EPICUREAN //

delights BRAISED OCTOPUS WITH AVOCADO AND BLACK BEAN PURÃ&#x2030;E ON A RED TORTILLA CHIP // ARMANDOS // PHOTO: LE ZU PHOTOGRAPHY

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AVOCADO TOAST // CAFÉ NATALIE

CAMPECHANA // CORDÚA CATERING

MASCARPONE, FIG & PROSCIUTTO CROUSTADE JACKSON & COMPANY // PHOTO: SHAWN CHIPPENDALE

CAVIAR TWINKIES // CORDÚA CATERING

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HIP Sips

Every wedding needs a specialty sip, especially if the beverage selection is limited to mostly beer and wine. Bourbons, rums, vodkas and gins, blended whiskeys, and tequilas, are being brewed all over the state of Texas. Mixing in these spirits to your full bar adds the perfect finishing touch to a locally inspired menu. With no fewer than 260 craft breweries currently turning out superb suds in the Lone Star State, you’ll want to have at least a few locally brewed beers on hand, whether at the bar, in ice-filled repurposed barrels complete with rustic signage, or served from floral-entwined baskets by miniature donkeys at your Hill Country bash. For avid Scotch and bourbon connoisseurs, there’s much fun to be had by bringing in experts to host tasting stations for guests. The experience is not just interesting, it is also educational, as the expert can talk to guests about how the spirits are made and what makes them so darn special! Nothing puts your personal mark on your celebration of a lifetime like his-and-hers signature cocktails. When working with your caterer or beverage service to craft your ultimate wedding cocktail, think color, favorite spirit and booze concentration (do you want your signature to be light and effervescent, or are you more of a straight-up sipper?). Choose your preferred glass style and garnishes, sign off on your signage (printed on cocktail napkins, or on small framed signs for trays or bar), and you and your guests will be sippin’ pretty at your wedding celebration!

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PHOTO: KELLI DURHAM // PLANNING: GRAYHOUSE EVENTS ATELIER

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Sweet

// TOOTH //

G I V E G U E S T S A TA S T E O F T R U E H A P P I N E S S , W I T H A N A R R A Y O F CELEBRATORY SWEETS AND TREATS. CAKE WINK SWEETS & TREATS

PHOTO: BETSY ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY

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IN THE REALM OF WEDDING DESSERTS, CAKE IS

and for extra style points, choose fruits that coordinate with your

Q U E E N . But you can, and should, surround this reigning center-

wedding color scheme. Keep it seasonal for optimal fruit flavors

piece of sweets with a selection of goodies in bite-size portions your

(spring strawberries, fall pears, summer stone fruits, etc.), and stick

guests will love. After all, this is the celebration of your most joyful

with fresh fruits rather than canned or preserved.

moment, so make it one that leaves a sweet taste in the mouths of those who have come to honor it with you.

T E A M P I E : As one of the nation’s southernmost cities, Houston is pie territory. If you or your significant other sides firmly with team

L O V I N ’ S P O O N F U L S : Mini servings of rich, creamy dessert

pie in the great pie vs. cake debate, your wedding is the perfect

classics make for a beautiful presentation, and allow your guests to

occasion to give this beloved Southern dessert a place of honor. For

dig into decadence without even a bit of mess. Whether tray-passed

maximum throwback delight, serve warm, family-recipe mini apple,

during later-evening festivities or set out on tiered risers, station-style,

pecan or buttermilk pies alongside Texas-made vanilla ice cream. Or

single servings of tiramisu, dulce de leche, crème brûlée, flan, pot

get guests’ mouths watering with the scent of fresh-from-the-oven blue-

de crème or butterscotch pudding, each presented with a flourish (a

berry, peach or apple cobbler, made with the season’s freshest picks.

single bloom, a sprinkle of colored sugar, a morsel of candied fruit) and served with a mini spoon, are both elegant and delectable.

D E C A D E N T D O U G H N U T S : What’s that glorious display of sweet goodness over there by the gourmet coffee cart? It’s a

F R U I T F U L F U N : Colorful, whimsical and mouthwatering, fruit-

doughnut wall, y’all! And it’s the go-to spot for guests looking for a

based desserts are an enduring favorite for weddings. Few things

late-night refuel with early-morning appeal. Part adorable reception

tempt guests’ taste buds more than a display of bright, beckoning

decor, part irresistible dessert treat, and a total Instagram photo op,

mini fruit tarts, strawberry shortcake bites, berry-topped mini cheese-

your doughnut wall will draw revelers in droves, tempting them with

cakes or itty-bitty key-lime pie servings. Make your mini fruit desserts

glossy glazed, pastel-sprinkled and delicately iced (wedding) rings

even more enticing by layering fruit with cake and custard or cream,

of delectable fried dough.

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MEET

SUSIE

EDWARDS,

’

OWNER

S U S I E S CAKE S // & CONFECTIONS // Originally from Buenos Aires—“the Paris of South

which, for me, with my South American and European

America”—and a lover of art and culture, with years of

background, is especially satisfying. Embracing changing

European culinary-arts and cake design training, Susie

styles and trends in weddings, and adding new enticing

brings an international sensibility to her design and baking

flavors and fillings to meet the needs of couples who are well-

expertise. Her cake boutique,

travelled and have a passion

Susie’s Cakes & Confections,

for unusual combinations, are

has been a Houston institution

my specialties, and my greatest

for more than three decades,

pleasure.”

winning fans who appreciate romantic, elegant cakes with

DIVERSE & DELICIOUS

sublime flavor.

specialize in delicious fondant

“We

and buttercream cakes, as well THE BEST INGREDIENTS “Susie’s

as sculpted and hand-painted

Cakes & Confections is a true

cakes. We’ve created many

boutique-style cake shop. Every

magnificent cakes for celebrities,

cake is custom created for each

and for the ‘who’s who’ of

couple, using only the freshest

Houston. The common element

and best ingredients. Each cake

for my wedding couples is that

is freshly baked and decorated

they all just want the very best.

meticulously. We strongly believe

And we give them that, from

a cake should be a beautiful work

traditional tiered masterpieces

of art, and taste incredible, too.”

to tailored modern cakes, from exquisite miniature cakes to

LASTING LEGACY “In recent

creative groom’s cakes. Our

years, I have started to create

commitment

wedding cakes for a second

quality, combined with our

generation—the daughters of

TOP PHOTO: D JONES PHOTO CENTER PHOTO: SYLVIE GIL STYLING: TODD EVENTS

my previous brides. This is, by

expertise

to in

exceptional baking

and

decorating techniques, ensures

far, the biggest compliment I

a delicous cake infused with

could receive from a client. I also have some clients who

rich flavors—which include favorites like butter-Kahlua,

actually take my cakes to their children’s weddings overseas,

mango, Mexican chocolate and Italian crème.”

T O S C H E D U L E A T A S T I N G , C A L L 2 81 . 4 9 3 . 3 2 2 2

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C U T I E C A K E S : Adding mini side cakes to your dessert mix won’t take the focus away from your grand wedding cake. Quite the contrary! Side cakes, whether smaller complementary cakes displayed with your main cake, echoing its design motifs; single-serving slices of tres leches, red velvet or ombré-layered cake; or cupcakes topped with hand-painted fondant, fresh flowers or sugar-paste blooms; will act as surrounding decor for your focal-point wedding cake, enhancing its awesomeness, while giving guests lots of yummy dessert options to choose from. For traypassed or wall-display cake fun, opt for sweet little cake pops! These one-bite wonders come in an endless array of flavors and decorations, and are perfect for late-night reception snacks, as well as bridal showers and day-after brunches.

PHOTO: COURTESY OF TIFF’S TR EATS

C H I C S H A K E S : The advent of adult milkshakes is here, and we are into it. Have a milkshake station on hand at your reception or after-party, where guests can indulge in cool, creamy shakes with a boozy kick, made to order in flavors like vanilla-chai with bourbon, mint-chocolate with crème de menthe, or mocha with Kahlua. Or have servers pass singleserving shakes in cute containers with a dollop of whipped cream and a fancy straw.

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VIVE

FRANCE:

If you thought

for one second that French macarons were a passing fad, well, we’re here to tell you: These chewy, feather-light, fabulously colorful two-bite desserts are here to stay. And with good reason! An expertly made macaron is a thing of beauty, not just in appearance— although they are incredibly pretty—but also in texture and flavor. Typically made with egg whites, almond flour, cream of tartar and sugar (along with various food colorings and flavor extracts); sandwiched with a seemingly inexhaustible range of fillings; and presented in a brilliant array of arrangements (rows, swirls, atop tiered trays); macarons convey the very essence of romance, elegance and sweetness, that is at the heart of the wedding celebration. And we can’t get enough. DESSERT TABLE: CAKES BY GINA // PHOTO: CIVIC PHOTOS

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REAL WEDDINGS

06.02.18

MR.& MR S. / / S A R A H & RYA N / /

COUPLE: Sarah Bohlen & Ryan Swink | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 200 | WEDDING COLORS: Blush, Neutrals, Green & Gold VENUE: Ashton Gardens West | FLOWERS: Dream Bouquet | CAKE: Edible Designs | REHEARSAL DINNER: Churrascoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s HONEYMOON: New York, Rome & Mediterranean Cruise

PHOTOGRAPHY: Fulleylove Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Darling Designs By Sarah / MLD Limited / Whittington Bridal / Adorne Artistry

JPL Entertainment / Evoke Photography & Video

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

red wine

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

wedding cake

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

shopping and hanging out with my husband, and my golden retriever, bentley WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

the way he loves me unconditionally and accepts me for exactly who i am

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

scotch

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

chocolate pie

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

hanging out at home or golfing

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

how much she supports and encourages me

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REAL WEDDINGS

A self-professed “control freak,” Sarah admits she is “extremely hard to surprise.” Yet surprise her Ryan did, by tricking her into thinking they were going to dinner with their parents on a random summer evening in 2017. Instead, he showed up early at her apartment (she was still in her PJ’s), with a ring and a very important question. After she said, “Yes!” the pair headed to the restaurant where they’d had their first date, then joined friends and family at their favorite neighborhood bar to celebrate. As for their spring wedding day, “It was a dream,” Sarah says. “The chapel and ballroom at Ashton Gardens West had the perfect background and ambiance for our wedding day,” she notes, highlighting the “beautiful windows, classic chandeliers and elegant decor” of the popular Houston wedding venue. Following an intimate ceremony filled with moments of spontaneous humor, “The reception was so much fun,” the bride recounts: “There were lots of dance battles, and of course some cake thrown in my groom’s face.” Toward the end of the evening, she adds, she and Ryan loved “dancing with our friends, seeing people having a blast at the photo booth, and noting how many of our guests stayed for the sparkler exit!”

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 297

REAL WEDDINGS

05.12.18

MR.& MR S. //LAUREN & TYLER//

PHOTOGRAPHY: Rebecca Ellison Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Robinette & Co. Caterers / Lush Flowers / House Of Hough / Vellora Productions / Lisa Pelayo

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CAPITOL COCKTAILS

Put your personal mark on your celebration of a lifetime with a signature cocktail. When

Put your personal signature on one of these deliciously

working with Capitol Beverage Service to

creative wedding cocktails from CAPITOL BEVERAGE SERVICE!

craft your ultimate wedding cocktail, choose a drink that plays off your love story. First,

decide

favorite

spirit—

something with a bit of backstory from your relationship: the bourbon Manhattans you ordered on that rainy first date, or the limoncello you sipped on your romantic trip to Italy, for example. Then, choose your preferred drink style and “mood” to match your guest list, celebration, season and venue. Do you want

your signature drink to be summery, bubbly and fun, or would an amber-colored fall photo: hannah mougel

cocktail fit the mood instead?

TRAY: BERING’S, PLANT: KUHL-LINSCOMB

1. PALOMA WITH A TWIST

Finally, select the perfect presentation details, such as garnish, glassware and a catchy name. Once your signature cocktail is finalized, Capitol Beverage Service will serve it in style, and provide the rest of your beverage and bar-staffing needs, to keep

START with silver tequila // MIX with blood orange soda (you can find this in most grocery and beverage stores)

guests celebrating well into the wee hours!

SERVE with a half-rim of salt // GARNISH with finely chopped thyme leaves, for an extra-special presentation!

EXCELLENT COCKTAIL SERVICE IS OUR

2 TRAY: KUHL-LINSCOMB, SPOON: BERING’S

2. SIMPLE SUMMER COOLER START with honey vodka (almost every brand of vodka makes a honey version) // MIX with club soda* // ADD a good squeeze of lemon // STIR and serve chilled *Pre-mix the vodka with fresh lemon juice and then add the club soda when serving a crowd.

photo: hannah mougel

Signature!

SERVING THIRSTY GUESTS FOR OVER 20 YEARS. 832.788.1586 HOUSTONBEVERAGE.COM

REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

red wine

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

crème brûlée

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

hanging out with friends and family

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his attitude and funny personality

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

captain & coke

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

ice cream

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

relaxing by the pool or beach

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her personality and drive

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REAL WEDDINGS

A memorable pre-dinner proposal and an exciting move to a new home preceded Lauren and Tyler’s light and airy May wedding at Waters Edge. For their spring celebration, the couple took full advantage of the venue’s waterfront setting, and modern ballroom, which they enhanced with a delicate palette of blush and gold. Their three-tier monogrammed wedding cake by Susie’s Cakes & Confections featured floral embellishments that echoed their simple yet elegant floral centerpieces. Following dinner, LG Event Entertainment & Production delivered music that kept guests on their feet for hours. “The dance floor was packed all night!” says Lauren. The epic reception concluded with a shower of sparklers and a “massive" fireworks send-off for the newlyweds.

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CAK E // ANYONE?//

SUSIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CAKES & CONFECTIONS REBECCA ELLISON PHOTOGRAPHY

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CAKES BY GINA

JOSEPH WEST PHOTOGRAPHY

CAKES + CULINARY |

WEDDING CAKES BY TAMMY ALLEN BLANCA DURAN PHOTOGRAPHY

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EDIBLE MOMENTS

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CAKES & + CULINARY |

VIRGINIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CAKES

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DESSERT GALLERY BAKERY & CAFÃ&#x2030;

CAKES & CULINARY |

WINK SWEETS & TREATS KOBY BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY

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”

“

In the realm of wedding desserts, cake is QUEEN.

EDIBLE DESIGNS

JESSICA FREY PHOTOGRAPHY

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SUSIE’S C AKES & CONFECTIONS COM POS UR E S TU D I OS

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C AKES BY GIN A

ALEXANDER CROSS PHOTOGRAPHY

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MONTHS OUT

INVITATIONS, REGISTRY + FAVORS |

8-11

6-8

MONTHS OUT

PREPARE TO TEL L TH E WO R LD

A N N OU N C E YOU R B I G N E W S

STA RT S HO PPING

•Order engagement announcements

•Send engagement announcements

•Start shopping for wedding invitations

•Order engagement-party invitations

•Send engagement-party invitation,

•Order bridal-shower invitations (this one’s

•Order save-the-dates (especially if you’re

and host a fabulous bash to

for your shower hostess, but you’ll need to

planning a destination celebration!)

celebrate your big news

provide the guest list)

•Make sure you have everyone’s address

•Send save-the-dates

•Send thank-you cards for bridal-shower

gifts 2-3 weeks after shower

/ / G R AC I O U S LY //

I NVITE D HOW DO WE ANNOUNCE OUR WEDDING? WHEN DO WE ORDER OUR INVITATIONS? WHAT OTHER STATIONERY ITEMS WILL WE NEED FOR OUR BIG DAY? FIND ANSWERS TO THESE PRESSING INVITATION QUESTIONS AND MORE, IN THIS MUST-HAVE INVITATION TIMELINE AND TIPS GUIDE!

PHOTO CIVIC PHOTOS

12 MONTH TIP: Doing an engagement shoot? Use a fave photo from it for your save-the-date, especially if it shows you and your boo participating in an activity you love to do together, or snuggled up with your beloved fur baby.

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8 MONTH TIP: While your wedding invitations are likely to be on the more formal side, it’s perfectly OK to have fun with your engagement announcements, with a couple-selfie, a pic of you holding an “I Said Yes” mug, or a heart formed with your fingerprints.

6 MONTH TIP: While you or your shower host may be tempted to have shower guests pre-address thank-you-card envelopes for convenience upon arrival, please don’t; proper etiquette and graciousness trump convenience, in this case, especially since we’re talking about your closest friends and family.

| FINER DETAILS

4-5

MONTHS OUT

INVITATIONS, REGISTRY + FAVORS |

WEEKS OUT

up to MONTHS AFTER

ORDER YOUR IN V ITE S

SE N D T H E M O U T

SAY T HANK YO U

•Order wedding invitations

•Send your wedding invitations

•Order personalized thank-you cards

•Order rehearsal-dinner invitations

•Order programs, menu

•Send heartfelt thank-you notes

•Order stationery with your

cards and table cards

couple’s monogram

4 MONTH TIP: The rehearsaldinner invitation should always be sent separately from your wedding invitation; never include it in the wedding invitation.

6 WEEK TIP: When mailing invitations, take them inside the post office, and ask the person helping you to hand-cancel your stamps; this process uses a special ink stamp to mark your envelopes rather than the usual machine-operated sorting system (which may damage them).

POST-WEDDING TIP: If the gift you’re giving thanks for is from your registry, make sure to mention it, and how much you love it, in your thank-you message; if it’s a monetary gift, don’t mention the amount, but do hint at how you’ll use it to bring joy to your newlywed life!

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REAL WEDDINGS

08.25.18

MR.& MR S. //BIANCA

JARED//

COUPLE: Bianca Villarreal & Jared Maree | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 250 | WEDDING COLORS: Burgundy, Ivory & Gold PHOTOGRAPHY: Civic Photos | DECOR, FLOWERS & RENTALS: Plants N’ Petals | CATERER: Cordúa Catering | CAKE: Edible Designs ASSORTED DESSERTS: Cakes By Gina | BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids | VIDEOGRAPHY: Meant To Be Films | HONEYMOON: Bahamas CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Chateau Cocomar / Ivory Bridal Atelier / Isabella Invitations / Sunkissed And Made Up / In10City Band / Latin Beat DJ

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

sweet tea

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

dark-chocolate cheesecakeÂ HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

watching movies in bed

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

he is a great life partner

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

strawberry lemonade HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

pecan pie

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

relaxing by watching sports

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

how she loves me

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REAL WEDDINGS

Sometimes it pays to say what’s in your heart. That’s what Jared did, when he saw a woman standing in the student union of the university he was attending, and decided to just walk up and tell her how beautiful he thought she was. Seven years later he spoke his truth once again, when he proposed to that very same woman, Bianca, with both their families present, and was rewarded with a resounding, “Yes!” On the couple’s wedding day, says Bianca, “I didn’t have to worry about a single thing.” Ceremony and reception flowers and decor in shades of ivory, burgundy and gold, designed by Plants N’ Petals, perfectly complemented Jared’s custom tuxedo and Bianca’s gorgeous Ines Di Santo gown. “The day of the wedding was very much like a fairytale,” the bride notes. “Spiritually, I felt the peace of God, and I knew it was all going to be OK.” Guests indulged in gourmet cuisine from Cordúa Catering, followed by a towering gold and ivory wedding cake from Edible Designs and decadent sweets from Cakes By Gina. Live music and Latin beats rounded out the evening, with a spectacular fireworks show to top off the night.

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RSVP Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re invited

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1 2

4 5

OPPOSITE PAGE PHOTO: SVETLANA PHOTOGRAPHY 1. CUSTOM ARZBERGER INVITATION available at bering’s // 2. CARDINAL & STRAW FLOURISH AND FRAME SUITE cardinalandstraw.com 3. CELESTINE INVITATION SUITE memorylanepaperie.com // 4. CUSTOM ARZBERGER INVITATION available at bering’s 5. BEACON LANE BOTANICAL GARDEN SUITE beaconln.com

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TRENDY 20/19

AVAL O N PI L L O W >

Ann Gish

kuhl-linscomb.com

S C E N T E D C A N DL E

Cire Trudon

kuhl-linscomb.com

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

HOT!

TH E C OZ YC H IC C OV ER ED IN PR AYER TH R OW

Barefoot Dreams berings.com

CREATURE COMFORT S

LUM O > DIFFUSER

doTERRA

berings.com

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REAL WEDDINGS

0 7. 2 2 . 1 8

MR.& MR S. //CASEY & HIREN//

COUPLE: Casey Cain & Hiren Joshi I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 300 I WEDDING COLORS: Red, Blush, Cream & Gold VENUE: Westin Houston Memorial City I CAKE: Cakes By Gina I BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids HONEYMOON: Mexico

PHOTOGRAPHY: Biyani Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Mandap Creations / Electric Karma International / Bombay Brasserie

Ivory Bridal Atelier / Ilume Artistry / A&A Video Productions

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REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

lemonade

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

ice cream

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

sleeping in, reading and relaxing at home

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his honesty and dedication to his family

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

coca-cola

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

tiramisu

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

brunch, visiting a park or seeing a movie WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her love, and her huge heart

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 319

REAL WEDDINGS

Both of them huge Houston Rockets fans, Casey and Hiren first connected on Twitter through their fan Tweets. They finally met up in person at a Rockets game, followed by a real first date at Discovery Green, where their more than five hours of conversation ended when a security guard told them they needed to leave because the park had closed! Two years into their relationship, Hiren was brought on as the social media manager for his dream team…and not too long after that, he won the heart of his dream girl, when he proposed at a Downtown hotel overlooking the place where they’d first met, and the site of their first date. The pair celebrated their union with no fewer than five wedding events, including a Mexican-themed gathering at the bride’s parents’ home, a mehendi party featuring live dancers and henna artists, and—the pièce de résistance—a spectacular 300-guest bash at the Westin Houston Memorial City, where “the Houston Rockets’ announcer introduced our parents, bridal party and us,” Casey says. “It was awesome to see everyone’s reaction!”

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P HOTO: L A R RY FAGAL A

/ / R E G I S T E R B Y //

RO OM A PA R T M E N T, T O W N H O U S E , C O N D O , C O T TA G E O R M A N S E — N O M A T T E R I T S S I Z E O R S C O P E , T H E P L A C E Y O U ’ L L LIVE TOGETHER AS A MARRIED COUPLE IS, ABOVE ALL ELSE, A HOME. KEEP THIS IN MIND WHEN YOU REGISTER FOR YOUR WEDDING, BY SELECTING ITEMS YOU’LL LOVE, FOR ALL THE SPACES YOU’LL OCCUPY IN THE HOME YOU SHARE. YOU CAN START WITH THESE TOP ESSENTIALS FOR EACH HAPPY PLACE!

TABLETOP BERING’S : FLORAL & DECOR THE EVENTS CO. : LOCATION THE POST OAK HOTEL W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 321

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//KITCHEN// The most intimate spaces in the newlywed

BEDROOM

For many couples, this space is the focus of the

home often are the most overlooked on

High-quality sheet set

gift registry—and with good reason…actually

to-be-wed registries. Don’t stumble into this

Designer duvet cover

lots of reasons.

common registry pitfall! While you may

Down comforter

need to replace textile items more frequently

Luxury pillows

First off, the kitchen is where couples, and often

than, say, cast-iron cookware or fine bone

Decorative frames

their friends, family and guests, spend a whole

Matching end tables

bunch of time, especially in those first months

Bedside lamps

and years of entertaining as a married couple.

Wall art

Sure, there’s the dining room and living room,

china, you can still register for your bedroom and bathroom with an eye toward luxury and durability.

but when there’s a party, and there’s cooking

Instead of gadgets and trendy pieces, focus

BATHROOM

going on, everyone tends to gather in the

your registry scanner on high-quality bedroom

Plush cotton towels

kitchen. So it’s nice to have a well-stocked,

and bathroom staples (with, perhaps, a

Fluffy bath mat

good-looking one.

techie treat just for fun!), and make private

Soap and lotion dispensers

time—each individually, or together—your favorite time of the day.

Scale

Plus, there are just so many kitchen items to

Bluetooth shower speaker

choose from, whether you’re a gourmet chef, an avid baker, or an “I-can-barely-boil-an-egg” amateur with a willingness to learn.

COOKWARE High-quality pots and pans Dutch oven Fine kitchen knives BAKING P H OTO : E RI RE YN A PH OTO GRAP HY // TABLETOP : BERIN G’S

Stand mixer Baking pans Measuring tools Pastry mat SMALL APPLIANCES Food processor Blender Toaster oven Slow-cooker Coffee- or espresso-maker

P H OTO : S TACY A NDE RSO N // JUBILEE COLLECTION BY N ATALIE ANNETTE

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Don’t forget to make al-fresco elements a part of your registry list! Whether you’ve got acres of land, a small but well-tended garden, or simply a sweet townhome patio, you’re likely to spend Houston’s fine-weather months (brief as they may be) enjoying the great outdoors.

OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING Tiki torches Outdoor seating Decorative pillows Pool or hot tub towels Hammock Fire pit Pet toys Lawn games Big Green Egg grill Yeti cooler Smoker Grill tools / apron Outdoor lighting L AWN & GARDEN Leaf blower Hedge clippers Pruning shears Gardening gloves Seeds or bulbs Riding mower Water feature Decorative pots or urns

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Whether they’re connected in an open-floor-

eat, drink and celebrate. How you design

delicate doo-dads? Do you love the look of

plan layout, or separate from one another,

and furnish your home’s living and dining

a formal dinner table, laid out with perfect

these two spaces generally constitute the

spaces will depend on your taste and style

place settings and flickering tapers all

heart of your home—the place where you

preferences: Do you want to sink back and

aglow? Do you crave a cool lounge space

relax, unwind, receive guests, entertain,

put your feet up without worrying about

where people can flow from table to sofa to bar, nibbling and sipping while the hum of conversation never stops? Think about the atmosphere you want to create, then dress it up with these livingand dining-room essentials, which make down-time a good time, no matter your personal style.

LIVING ROOM Wireless speaker Digital streaming system P H OTO : S TACY A NDE RSO N // JUBILEE COLLECTION BY N ATALIE ANNETTE

Throw blankets Vases, decor or art DINING ROOM Set of dishes Set of flatware Set of glassware Table linens BAR Barware (highball glasses, martini glasses and Champagne flutes) Shaker Ice bucket and tongs Corkscrew Muddler Stirrers Wine Aerator and decanter

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TRENDY 20/19

HAND HAM M ERED KN IFE

Poglia & Co. C A S T IRO N > S K ILL E T

manready.com

Nest Homeware

berings.com

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

HOT! FOR THE CHEF

R E S IN C O AT E D STA IN E LS S S T E E L STOCKPOT

Alessi

kuhl-linscomb.com

VEGETAL > D I N N ERWARE C O L L E C TI ON

Bernardaud berings.com

REAL WEDDINGS

08.08.18

MR.& MR S. / / M AY L E E N & M I C H A E L / /

COUPLE: Mayleen Lee & Michael Tsang | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 250 | WEDDING COLORS: Ivory, Peach, Lilac & Fuchsia VENUE: Corinthian Houston | FLOWERS: Plants N’ Petals | CATERING: Jackson & Company | CAKE: Cakes By Gina | PHOTOGRAPHY: Ama By Aisha HONEYMOON: Spain, France & Italy CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Aztec Events & Tents / Jane Deux Event Management & Consulting / GTX Productions / Weddings By Debbie / Misora Bridal Boutique / Blush & Co. Capuchino Beauty / Chinatown Band / Lee’s Golden Dragon Dance Troupe / Allmon Brothers

326 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

HER FAVORITE SIP:

hendrick’s martini

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

matcha ice cream

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

brunch date with friends

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his loyalty and sense of humor

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

tito’s & soda with a splash of cranberry HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

blue bell mint chocolate-chip ice cream HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

golfing

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her smile, compassion and love for the people around her

WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM / 327

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REAL WEDDINGS

A 2014 blind date led to true love for Mayleen and Michael. Three years after that fateful evening, Michael popped the question to Mayleen beneath the iconic Hakone Shrine at Japan’s Lake Ashi, with Mount Fuji as the backdrop to his dramatic proposal. For their August wedding, the couple chose Corinthian Houston as their venue, and allowed their wedding planner, and their design firm, Plants N’ Petals, to guide their way to…WOW. “We love clean, crisp, modern design,” notes bride Mayleen. “But we also wanted to incorporate some of our Chinese cultural elements, which are typically more vibrant and colorful. We eventually had to just put all of our trust in our event planner, Crystal, and let her and Bahara Jamea, with Plants N’ Petals, decide on the final design for our big day.” The result was nothing short of spectacular, centering on “a stunning floral arch covered with lilac and peach long-stem roses and white orchids,” which served as the ceremony altar, and the focal point of the evening’s festivities. Adds Mayleen: “My dream was to have our guests dance under the stars at our wedding. Since that’s pretty hard to do in the Houston heat, our planner was able to achieve that with blue stars lighting the ceiling.” Other favorite features included ice “shot luges,” an ultra-highenergy live band, and 5,000 paper cranes, folded by Mayleen’s family, to bestow blessings on the couple for a long and harmonious marriage.

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That's

ENTERTAINMENT T H R I L L I N G I N T H E M O M E N T, A N D A J O Y T O R E L I V E I N P H O T O S A N D V I D E O L O N G A F T E R T H E B I G D AY — T H AT ’ S E N T E R T A I N M E N T . A N D THAT’S WHAT YOU AND YOUR GUES TS WILL GET, WHEN YOU FOLLOW THESE TIPS F O R PA RT Y- T H ROW I N G P E R F E C T I O N .

PHOTO AMA BY AISHA E N T E R TA I N M E N T D A N N Y R AY A N D T H E A C O U S T I C P R O D U C T I O N

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H I R E A P R O There are plenty of bands, DJs and music providers out there who may be able to play their instruments or mix tracks, but lack the experience to manage the unique demands of managing a full wedding evening. A great wedding DJ or bandleader won’t just play the music you want to hear on your special day, they also will be able to move guests where you need them to go, introduce the wedding couple and special guests as needed, modify volume during dinner and speeches, and read the crowd for cues when it’s time to dance. An experienced wedding entertainer also can provide state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and can bring special lighting, furnishings and effects (Studio-54-style light-up dance floor, anyone??) to transform your reception space into a high-energy dance party. CREATE

THE

MOOD

C O C K T A I L H O U R The cocktail hour is a chance for your guests to sip the signature cocktails you and your spouse have created, taste those delicious hors d’oeuvre, and mingle with old friends, before you and your new spouse once again become the center of attention. It’s also the perfect opportunity to set the mood for celebration, with a live pianist or small jazz combo. Not only does live cocktailPHOTO: AMA BY AISHA // ENTERTAINMENT: LG EVENT ENTERTAINMENT & PRODUCTION

reception music provide ambiance and elegance at this first taste of the party to come, but an experienced live musician who is well-versed in

event entertainment will interact unobtrusively with the crowd, welcoming requests for example, or playing mellow instrumental renditions of chart-topping pop hits, to the surprise and delight of gathering guests. P O S E A N D S M I L E No matter how grand or fancy your formal ceremony and black-tie reception, a photo booth will fit somewhere into the festivities. Trust us on this one: Whether you place it in the transformed foyer or pre-function space, for guests to enjoy as a break from dinner proceedings; or stage it outside, in your al-fresco lounge area, for folks to have fun with as the party winds down; a photo booth or video booth complete with props, costume pieces and take-home pics will be one of the most appreciated parts of your party—and will help ensure that memories of your magical day live on with many of your nearest and dearest.

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R E J O I C E W I T H M O V I N G M U S I C Yes, you definitely want to have a professional wedding DJ or band on hand to handle the main entertainment for your milestone event. But that doesn’t mean you can’t round out the revelry with an extra musical treat or two. Take a cue from celebrity weddings, and consider having a gospel choir bring guests to their feet (and uplift their spirits) with a performance of favorite hymns, or even a popular love song, at your wedding ceremony. Of course, this being Texas, college football is a shared passion of many a wedding couple. Honor your alma mater and/or your favorite team by having a professional marching band play your fight song (and a horn-heavy, amped-up version of your favorite love song, perhaps), as guests progress from cocktails to reception, or in the middle of your party, with a surprise performance. J A Z Z U P Y O U R L O U N G E As the party winds down—or possibly as the after-party winds up—a luxe lounge area, where revelers can enjoy a single-malt Scotch or gourmet espresso drink, and quiet conversation, provides relaxation and a respite from the high-energy hijinks, and shows that you care about your guests’ comfort. But just because your lounge may be mellower than what’s going on inside the main event doesn’t mean you have to leave your guests entirely to their own devices. Make live music part of your late-night lounge scene, with PHOTO: AMA BY AISHA // ENTERTAINMENT: LG EVENT

a jazz duo or trio, a virtuoso pianist playing guests’ requests, or a solo vocalist

ENTERTAINMENT & PRODUCTION

doing sultry cabaret tunes in a sexy, club-like setting.

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/ / U N E X P E C T E D E N T E R TA I N M E N T //

C I G A R B A R : Hire a live cigar roller to handcraft stogies on

just a few of our favorite options available; plus, the printable photos

demand for eager aficionados. Or set up a burnished bar with

with your wedding hashtag make great favors, and you can usually

serve-yourself premium cigars, vintage props and cigar accessories, along with comfortable seating and elegant ashtrays within easy reach. Either way, a cigar bar is a swank and sexy feature for your late-night wind-down. Just locate your cigar bar in a well-ventilated area, away from guests who may not appreciate the scent of a luxurious Maduro, Habano or Demi Corona, quite as much as you do.

C O N F E T T I C A N N O N S : Confetti cannons = surefire exhilaration. Whether handheld mini cannons your guests

can shoot off the moment you’re pronounced married, or concealed cannons that blast a shower of confetti as you take to the floor for your first dance as newlyweds, these explosive add-ons are tons of fun at

K A R A O K E : Also fabulous for late-night festivities, karaoke is fast becoming one of the hottest wedding entertainment options

around. Save this sing-along activity for after-parties and post-formalreception fun, and make sure to have your videographer on hand to capture the hilarity!

have the gallery of photos emailed to you afterwards.

weddings; just make sure to use biodegradable confetti to ensure an Earth-friendly celebration.

L I V E E V E N T P A I N T I N G : A live event painter will sit in a relatively quiet, well-lit space at your wedding and paint one or more

scenes from the festivities—often the couple’s first dance, cake-cutting and/

P H O T O B O O T H : There’s nothing like a table full of props, a

or a filled dance floor. Guests will be able to stop by your painter at his or

sparkly backdrop, and a callout from the booth operator to

her easel, chat, ask questions and observe the process. And after your big

“Smile!” or “Change it up!” to get your well-dressed guests to let

day is done, you’ll have a cherished work of fine art commemorating your

down their hair a bit. Mirrored selfie stations and video booths are

wedding, and capturing it in all its romance and color.

PHOTO: KELLI DURHAM PHOTOGRAPHY

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PHOTO: CIVIC PHOTOS

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0 7. 1 1 . 1 8

MR.& MR S. / / NATA N I E & M A R K / /

CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Fabulous Beginnings By Delcina / Darling + Pearl / Secret Floral Garden / Lauren Elaine Bridal / Grace Loves Lace Bridals By Nancy / Adorne Artistry / Federico Alessandro Galli

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HER FAVORITE SIP:

french 75

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

cream-cheese ice cream

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

sitting with friends on a patio at one of houston’s many outdoor hotspots WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

he is always entertaining and very energetic, and heʼs a great cook

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

coffee

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

sea salt caramel gelato

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

out on the boat with friends, or working on home improvement projects

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

we travel well together, because we are both very easygoing and spontaneous

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Adventurous, travel-loving Natanie and Mark, who met while skydiving, and committed to marrying while boating on the Vltava River in Prague, decided to wed in a private ceremony on a secluded island in the center of Slovenia’s breathtaking Lake Bled. “The first time I saw Lake Bled and the beautiful island situated in the middle of the emerald water, I knew it was where we would be married,” says Natanie. Houston photographer Aisha Khan of Ama By Aisha beautifully captured the couple’s unique ceremony, which began with a dramatic arrival by boat. Per tradition, the groom carried his silent bride up 99 steps, before the pair entered the island’s ancient church to exchange their vows. The couple’s Houston reception at The Dunlavy a month later offered a chance for the bride and groom to cut loose and celebrate with family and friends, with hometown musical tourde-force Danny Ray And The Acoustic Production as the evening’s entertainment. “We partied the night away,” recounts Natanie, “dancing under the dazzling chandeliers to the exceptional music of the insanely talented Danny Ray And The Acoustic Production—the most energetic band in town!”

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TRANSPORTATION |

// Y O U Ê¼ V E //

ARRIVE D

R E V U P Y O U R W E D D I N G T R A N S P O R TAT I O N W I T H T H E S E S T Y L I S H O P T I O N S F O R A R R I V I N G W I T H P O M P A N D CIRCUMSTANCE, AND MAKING A MEMORABLE GETAWAY.

PHOTOS AMA BY AISHA

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LOCATION: THE POST OAK HOTEL NAEEM KHAN GOWN: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON SHOES: NEIMAN MARCUS //JEWELRY: TENENBAUM JEWELERS SUIT, TIE, SHOES, POCKET SQUARE: SUITSUPPLY PHOTO: LARRY FAGALA // STYLING: SUMMAR SALAH MAKEUP: VCI ARTISTS AMBER LIVINGSTON, ANNA KALITA HA IR: VCI ARTIST DENNIS CLENDENNEN

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V I N T A G E V E H I C L E Houston is crazy about its cars, and that includes antique and vintage models. Because of our warm climate and lack of snow, classic cars aren’t subject to damage from road salt. Which means they can be preserved and kept in pristine condition…making them an excellent choice for specialoccasion transportation. Rent a ’60s-era muscle car, a sleek ’50s Ford or Chevy, or a lavish vintage Rolls to get you from your ceremony to your post-I-do celebration. Or make a Texas-style statement in a retro pickup, decked out with big-day flowers and finery! L U X U R Y M O D E L Ever fantasized about getting behind the wheel of a prized late-model luxury sports car, coupe or sedan? Now’s the time, to-be-wed. Book a Lamborghini roadster, a gleaming white Bentley Mulsanne or a sexy Maserati Quattroporte for your wedding weekend, and make getting to your wedding as much fun as being at your wedding! Want all the glamour without the gear-shifting responsibility? Hire a chauffeur-driven luxury SUV and take your closest crew members along with you, to ceremony, reception and after-party festivities. C O U T U R E C O A C H For the ultimate in comfort, fun and convenience for all your wedding guests, consider a mini-fleet of professionally driven motor coaches and/ PHOTO: COMPOSURE STUDIOS

or shuttle buses to get revelers where they’re going (and home safely). Shuttle buses generally hold 25 to 44 passengers and are perfect for wedding-day transportation, airport pickups and drop-offs, and touring the city in style. A full-size chartered motor

coach will hold up to 56 passengers, and likely will include individual climate controls, on-board charging docks, wifi—even restroom facilities—making it an excellent option for Hill Country destination weddings, and wedding-weekend group outings, wherever you choose to journey!

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09.08.18

MR.& MR S. / / L A K AY L A

ADRIAN//

PHOTOGRAPHY: Tony Houston Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Inkredible Dance Floors / Jonny Black Productions

Pili’s Cakes / CamiʼFlage Makeup Artistry / Snobz Of Houston

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HER FAVORITE SIP:

sweet tea

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

vanilla wedding cake with vanilla buttercream icing HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

snuggled on the couch catching up on t.v.

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

he is family oriented and very supportive of both our families, and i also love his welcoming personality

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

red kool-aid

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

pizookie cookie from bjâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s restaurant HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

playing basketball

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her tenacity

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Set up over a group text by a friend of her sister’s, LaKayla and Adrian hit it off immediately. Two years later, Adrian proposed to LaKayla…while she was sleeping . Yup, that’s right, though she was in the habit of waiting up late for him to return from his Masonic meetings on Thursdays, that particular evening she’d hit the pillow early after a long, stressful day. “It seemed like I was in the best part of my sleep when I heard this ongoing noise,” she recounts. “I just knew I was dreaming.” Except, of course, she wasn’t. The noise she heard was Adrian singing the lyrics to Jagged Edge’s “Lets Get Married.” When LaKayla finally opened her eyes, she saw a “bright light shining in the dark room…from the ring box!” One year later the pair wed at Raveneaux Country Club, with a celebration coordinated, decorated and styled by Events De Luxe, in a glamorous palette of black, white, champagne and gold. LaKayla says that despite her busy work schedule as a Houston attorney, she really focused on making sure her wedding was full of elegant details and sentimental touches—“From our website to the dance floor, I worked hard to make it personalized, and everyone seemed to love it.”

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DOCUMENTING

T H E DA Y Y O U ’ V E W O R K E D S O H A R D T O C R E AT E M E M O R I E S T H AT W I L L L A S T F O R E V E R . W H E T H E R Y O U R W E D D I N G I S A SHORT AND SWEET CEREMONY AT THE COURTHOUSE OR A WEEK-LONG AFFAIR SPANNING MULTIPLE CITIES, DOCUMENT THIS SPECIAL EVENT – AND YOUR LOVED ONES – WITH THE RIGHT IMAGES AND CINEMA.

PHOTO AMA BY AISHA

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// T I M E L E S S //

PHOTO S WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY IS, AND SHOULD BE, A PROFESSIONALS-ONLY GAME. AFTER ALL, THIS IS YOUR BIG DAY, AND THERE ARE NO DO-OVERS.

PHOTO ADAM NYHOLT : LOCATION JULIA IDESON LIBRARY : FLOWERS & DECOR SWIFT + CO. GOWN & HEADPIECE STEPHEN GRACE ATELIER : RING ZADOK JEWELERS

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IN THIS AGE OF ENDLESS PHOTO OPS AND COUNTLESS SELFIES, MOST OF US FEEL PRETTY COMFORTABLE ON BOTH SIDES OF THE CAMERA. BUT WEDDING PHOTOS ARE AN ENTIRELY DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE.

CIVIC PHOTOS

“

STEPHANIA CAMPOS

KELLI DURHAM

Having a timeline for your photographer will ensure that all essential shots are captured, and nothing is overlooked or rushed.

While many wedding photos capture candid moments and easygoing poses, you will want to have plenty of pre-planned,

”

... Make a mood board. Just as you’ve almost certainly done with wedding decor, floral, cake and gown photos, you can

composed shots as well, including floral and accessory details,

assemble wedding and engagement photographs and identify

family portraits and fun bridal-party photos, along with, perhaps, a

wedding photographers whose work speaks to your heart. You can

themed or on-location engagement shoot, pre-wedding bridal

create a board on Pinterest or create a collection on Instagram, or

boudoir session or bridal portrait shoot, and rehearsal-dinner

go the crafty route, and cut out and collage magazine photos in an

photography. Your talented and experienced wedding photographer

album or scrapbook, with notes and questions in the margins (this

will walk you through the process, and help you plan, prepare and

also makes a great wedding-planning keepsake!). And don’t forget

pose, before and during your wedding day. You can do your part

to include images you may not like, to make sure your photographer

to guarantee amazing wedding images by letting your photographer

knows what no-no’s to avoid when shooting your perfect pics.

guide you, and taking this expert advice.

...Allow time for timeless photos. Your wedding day will

....Hire a photographer who really, truly gets you. More than almost any other vendor you’ll hire for your wedding, your

photographer will enter into a relationship with you and your spouse-to-be. She or he will document not just your event, but also your love for each other, and for your family and friends. So it’s essential that your photographer understands who you are, where you come from, what makes you smile, and how you want to remember your courtship and wedding. Before you make your hiring decision: Ask plenty of questions, look at multiple fullwedding albums your photographer has shot, and think about how you feel after talking to a prospective photographer (Great? Concerned? Indifferent?). Once you’ve booked a photographer, spend some time really getting to know him or her, and letting your

be packed with activity and emotion. Having a timeline

for your photographer will ensure that all essential shots are captured—pre-wedding prep, bridal party photos, bridal suite shots with Mom and Dad, composed jewelry and invitation photos, family portraits, first dance, cake-cutting—and nothing is overlooked or excessively rushed. Make sure to also allow ample time for bridal and bridal party hair and makeup, and have beauty prep complete well before the ceremony to give your photographer time to capture individual, with-the-bride and group bridal party shots.

... Don’t skip the first look. We know there are some die-hard traditionalists out there among you who really want to remain

photographer get to know you both, by going out for coffee or

hidden from your groom until you set foot on that processional aisle.

drinks, or inviting your photographer to visit you in your home.

But for the rest of you: Do yourselves a favor, and DO make a “first

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look” moment a part of your wedding photography plan. This intimate instant, where you and your spouse-to-be see each other for the first time in all your wedding finery, is so full of joy, surprise and love, it always makes for a deeply cherished photo or series of photos—one that you, your family and generations to come will treasure forever. Still not convinced you want your big reveal to come before your big walk? Have your photographer shoot you and your beloved holding hands as you stand on either side of a doorway

EXPERT ADVICE: Ask plenty of questions, look at multiple full-wedding albums your photographer has shot, and think about how you feel after talking to a prospective photographer.

or wall. That way you won’t be able to see each other in the moment, but you’ll both be able to see how you looked, and the emotions you felt, when you look at that photo after the big day.

... Capture motion, along with emotion. One of our favorite wedding photography trends is the

“captured-action” shot. Think: your bridal party in matching floral robes tossing metallic confetti into the air, your adorable flower girls throwing rose petals at each other while dissolving into giggles, your wedding guests surrounding you with live sparklers as you

embrace passionately with your venue in the background. Prefer to stick to classic shots for your wedding album? Make a “toss photo” part of your engagement shoot, or have your professional photographer on hand for your relaxed, fun-focused bridal shower or pre-wedding bridesmaids’ bash, and save these pics in a special album, separate from your heirloom wedding book. BLANCA DURAN

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EXPERT ADVICE: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s essential that your photographer understands who you are, where you come from, what makes you smile, and how you want to remember your courtship and wedding.

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Houston photographer ADAM NYHOLT shares the stories behind the images. the story of us.

“My job is to capture the chemistry between you and the one you love. We’re

going to spend a lot of time together, so we need to make sure we’re a great fit both in style and personality. I want to create images that are going to blow you away. I have the greatest job in the world because I get to be a part of, and capture forever, that amazing day. It’s an incredible honor, and a responsibility I don’t take lightly.”

actually bummed out that it wasn’t. We were headed to the bride’s family’s house for a crawfish boil after the shoot, and on the way there, it started raining. Really hard. It was pouring. I said, ‘So, do you want to go for it?’ And they said, ‘YES!’ I had the bride’s friend park her car in the street and shine the headlights straight at me, so the couple was backlit. I had him scoop her up like that in the rain. I tried to hold the umbrella over my camera, but I couldn’t do it, I just had to ditch it. They got drenched, I got drenched, my camera got drenched. But we got the shot. The couple totally loved it. It was their favorite shot of the entire session.” BOOK A MEETING WITH ADAM: 281.668.7317 | THEBRAIN@NYHOLT.COM

THE LOOK OF LOVE.

“This ‘first look’ shot was really a matter of

preparation meets luck. Before the wedding, the only input from the bride was that she didn’t want a typical first look, with the classic tap on the groom’s shoulder. I really embraced that. It was a creative challenge for me – to find a way for them to ‘see’ each other and have a moment that was still interesting and had impact. I thought I would have the groom round a corner and see her for the first time, so I put her in this little office in the front corner of the house, where he would come out and find her. I opened the front door so that light would come in, and illuminate him when he reacted to her. At the last second, I saw we could catch her reflection in the French doors. I recomposed and grabbed the shot just as he saw her. It was…wow.”

COME RAIN OR COME SHINE. “My clients were coming in from out of town, and we knew rain was in the forecast. So I said to them, ‘I’ve always had this idea of doing an engagement shoot in the rain. But it would require really heavy rain, to do it the way I want to. What do you think about that?’ And they said, ‘That sounds great!’ Well, it ended up not raining during the day we were doing their shoot, and they were

REAL WEDDINGS

11.04.17

MR.& MR S. / / L I N D S AY

CYRUS//

COUPLE: Lindsay Rhude & Cyrus Robinson | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 155 | WEDDING COLORS: Burgundy, White, Green & Gold PHOTOGRAPHY: Jessica Frey Photography | HONEYMOON: Maldives

CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Camp Lucy / Whim Hospitality / Much Ado Austin / Classic Cakes By Lori

Altared Weddings / Terra Vista Strings / Brickhouse Bridal / Lavish Beauty / Hoffman Diamond Co. / David Yurman

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HER FAVORITE SIP:

wine

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

ice cream

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

workout and brunch

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his adventuresome spirit

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

high west campfire whiskey HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

bread pudding

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

manning the barbecue

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her kindness and compassion know no limit

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Their families’ international travel brought Lindsay and Cyrus together on multiple occasions—first in Malaysia when they were in third grade, then in Paris, when the two were college students, and again, in Houston, where they realized they lived a few short blocks from one another in Midtown. One evening, Cyrus invited a bunch of local friends to gather for Happy Hour via group text, and though several people responded, Lindsay ended up being the only one who showed up. Which was perfect for Cyrus: “After our wonderful evening together, I proclaimed to myself, ‘I am going to marry this woman, she is perfect.’” And on Nov. 4, 2017, that’s exactly what he did. “It was so relaxing and enjoyable getting ready on our wedding day with our wedding party,” Lindsay says of their rustic-elegant Austin event. “Everyone stayed on premise at our venue, which made it so convenient.” She notes that the evening’s toasts were among her favorite moments: “They covered the full range of emotions, from laughter to tears. There were stories, memories relived, and the kindest wishes for our future. We felt so loved, and will always remember the words shared in celebration of our wedding!”

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// L O V E O N //

FILM THEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOTHING LIKE MOVING PICTURES TO TELL YOUR WEDDING STORY IN ALL ITS SOUND, ACTION AND EMOTION.

PHOTOS REVERENT WEDDING FILMS

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.Videography isn’t just for the main event. “What we do is we tell stories. And that’s why we love being part of the rehearsal

dinner,” says Clay Vaughn of Reverent Wedding Films. “It allows us to capture all the toasts, all those special messages that family and friends share with the couple. And then we can incorporate that into the wedding-story film.” He adds that the more intimate rehearsal dinner setting encourages guests to share truly personal stories: “On the wedding day, in front of 400 or 500 people they’ve never met, they’re not going to let themselves be that vulnerable,” he explains.

.Videography tracks the evolution of emotion. It is one thing . to see an image or a powerful moment caught on film, but it

is a richer experience to see and hear a hilarious best-man or maid-of-honor speech, a song performed at a ceremony, a couple’s PHOTO: STEPHANIA CAMPOS PHOTOGRAPHY

“first look,” or those memorable dances: the first twirl as a couple, a lively hora, or bride and groom dances with Mom or Dad. “I

.Videography is a sound investment. “We always tell our

think the father-daughter and mother-son dances are always

clients that the vows and the sound of voices on video are the

wonderful to see in video,” Khan says. “It is nice to have a photo

most important reasons to have videography as part of your day,”

of these moments. But a lot of times you just capture one moment.

says Aisha Khan of Ama by Aisha. “Couples tend to take pauses,

When you are watching it on video, you see that moment

or someone’s voice cracks, and it adds so much to the emotion, and

developing, and that’s beautiful.”

to the memory of that emotion.” For this reason, “We focus a lot on sound, and on recording the best sound possible, knowing that it is something that will never make it into the photos. As the couple watches the video again, it takes their memories to another level.”

.Videography enjoyment is a group activity. Your wedding videographer will be able to upload your full wedding video

to a sharing platform such as YouTube or Vimeo, so that you can then share that video with anyone and everyone you want to! Your

.Videography captures the big picture. When covering a large

videographer also can create short clips and outtakes for you to

celebration, lavish wedding, or multi-event weekend,

post to Instagram, Facebook and/or Snapchat, where you can add

vieographers can use special eqipment to capture the scope of the

your wedding hashtag, tag your friends and family, even include

festivities. Drones, steadicams and glidecams are just a few of the

a poll or fun question that relates to your wedding. But our absolute

advanced technologies many videographers employ. Drones can

favorite film-sharing option is the live, in-person, at-home viewing

offer a unique, dramatic perspective, while glidecams and

party. Invite special friends over, whip up a batch of enchiladas,

steadicams can give sweeping, cinematic views of your ceremony,

whirl a blenderful of margaritas, sit back, relax, and enjoy every

vows, and extravagant reception decor, making your wedding film

awesome moment of your wedding day, any day of the year, in

more than just a video, but a work of art.

the comfort and joy of your newlywed nest.

FILM CLIPS: YOUR LOVE STORY While still photography is a must for capturing your wedding portraits and details, and building an album to cherish for generations, there’s nothing like moving pictures to tell your wedding story in all its sound, action and emotion.

36 6 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

04.29.18

MR.& MR S. / / DA N I E L L E

RYA N / /

COUPLE: Danielle Frias & Ryan Wilson I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 50 I WEDDING COLORS: White, Gold & Silver WEDDING SHOWER: Las Velas I ENTERTAINMENT: LG Event Entertainment & Production I INVITATIONS & STATIONERY: Bering’s HONEYMOON: Hawaii

PHOTOGRAPHY: Tomas Ramos Photographers & Film Production CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: V. Sattui Winery / Weddings By Darlene

Sweetie Pies Bakery / Lovely Bride / Garaventa’s Florist / Bright Event Rentals

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 367

REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

french 75

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

crème brûlée

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

planning my clientsʼ weddings, or doing something outside

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his motivation and appreciation for the outdoors

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

old fashioned

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

key lime pie

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

hiking in a new place

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her creativity and sense of humor

36 8 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

It’s difficult to wow someone who plans weddings for a living, but petroleum geologist Ryan certainly wowed Danielle (event planner at Spanish-style Houston venue Las Velas) when he proposed to her in Venice, during a romantic gondola ride. Their photographer, whom the groom had flown to Italy just for the occasion, was hiding nearby to capture the moment. Echoing their romantic Italian engagement, the couple’s wedding featured nods to Italy, with a gorgeous Napa Valley winery venue and a custom menu courtesy of the vineyard’s Italian chef. The reception showcased many of the vineyard’s varietals, everywhere from the welcome bar to the cigar lounge. Candlelight illuminated the surrounding olive branches and greenery, and guests took home miniature bottles of olive oil as favors. Having their favorite Houston entertainment outfit, LG Event Entertainment & Production, on hand, was “like having a little piece of Houston with us, it was so unbelievably special,” the bride says. She adds: “We realized how rare it was to have all of our friends and family one place, at one time, so we made sure to enjoy every second of their presence with us.”

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 369

P H OTO : CO M PO SURE S T UDIO S

37 2 H O N E Y M O O N & T R AV E L

380 YOUR NEW HOME

HA P P I LY //

EVER AFTER

N O W T H AT Y O U ’ V E P L A N N E D F O R M O N T H S , S A I D Y O U R V O W S , A N D PA R T I E D T H E N I G H T ( O R W E E K E N D ) AWAY, IT’S TIME TO ENJOY BEING MARRIED! SOME COUPLES WAIT AWHILE BEFORE JAUNTING OFF TO LANDS AFAR, OTHERS HEAD STRAIGHT FROM RECEPTION TO AIRPORT. WHETHER YOU CHOOSE A WHIRLWIND, SIX-CITY TOUR ABROAD OR A DOMESTIC ROAD TRIP, WE’VE GOT YOUR TRAVEL PLANS COVERED.

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| JUST MARRIED

HONEYMOON + TRAVEL |

/ / G O T TA G E T / /

AWA Y

PH OTO : CO M POSURE S TUDIOS

B E F O R E Y O U R “ B O N V O YA G E , ” F O L L O W T H E S E F O U R S T E P S F O R D R E A M I N G O F , B O O K I N G A N D S E T T I N G O F F FOR THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME... THEN PACK THOSE BAGS AND GO!

WRITER NATASHA GARBER

372 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

| JUST MARRIED

1 MAKE

HONEYMOON PL ANNING A PRIORIT Y

HONEYMOON + TRAVEL |

2 H AV E

F U N A S Y O U P L A N As with wedding plan-

During those heady, hectic months—sometimes years—of planning

ning, honeymoon planning should be enjoyable, exciting, full of anticipa-

your wedding, honeymoon arrangements can sometimes take a

tion and laughter—it should not be a chore. Start your planning by sitting

back seat to big-day prep. But if you wait too long to plan your

down together and plotting out places you think you’d like to go. Make

honeymoon, or you neglect budgeting for your big trip, you

it a date night, or a series of them, and take the time as a couple to

may find yourself having to compromise on location, dates and

search locations, compare travel wish lists, and read up on potential

amenities.

honeymoon destinations.

Just as a professional wedding planner will help you navi-

Once you’ve narrowed down two or three locations, start to think

gate your wedding decisions, and save you time and money

about what kind of honeymoon vacation you would prefer. Determine

on booking vendors, a professional travel agent can guide you

if you both truly want the same experience on your honeymoon—i.e.

to the best hotels and resorts in your dream honeymoon locale,

outdoor adventures, championship golf, downtime by the pool, luxuri-

snag you honeymoon amenities you don’t have access to your-

ous spa treatments—or, if you each have things you’d like to enjoy indi-

selves (special suites, spa vouchers, a welcome bottle of bubbly,

vidually (it’s OK, you’re married, not joined at the hip), while still having

perhaps?), and direct you toward deals.

plenty of opportunities for romantic strolls, snuggles and sunset cocktails.

For optimal honeymoon planning, enlist a travel pro at the

Also, discuss the type of accommodations you’d like. An all-inclusive

same time you start your wedding planning in earnest—typically

property, for example, can be more budget-friendly, and is great if you

about one year out. Doing so will ensure that when you’re ready

prefer not to have to arrange transportation or dining reservations every

to make your escape, you’ll be booked, packed and ready to

day, but can be limiting for true adventurers. Boutique hotels, mean-

board, for the most romantic getaway of your life.

while, can offer lots of unique design, edgy elegance and sophisticated

P H OTO : AM A BY AISH A

| JUST MARRIED

HONEYMOON + TRAVEL |

fun, but may lack on-property restaurants and other amenities common

spouse have fantasized about for ages. You’ll have way more fun on

to larger properties.

your Caribbean cruise, French Polynesian island-hop or Tuscan wine

When you have a few options in mind, share these with your travel agent, and collect information from her or him, then make another date

adventure, if you’re not worrying about work deadlines or bills.

(or two) to reconnect as a couple, review the details, and start to envi-

4 T R AV E L

sion yourselves in…Paradise.

that threadbare bikini you’ve been wearing for three summers, your

3 F IGURE

I N S T Y L E Don’t take off for the islands with

cozy “T-shirt bra,”or the backpack you lugged around Australia as a

O U T W H E N T O TA K E O F F While honey-

moons traditionally have followed right on the tail of the big celebration

hostel-hopping college kid. While you don’t have to replace your entire wardrobe, your honeymoon is a great time to step it up.

itself, today’s wedding couples are all over the map when it comes to

A good way to upgrade your travel gear is with your wedding gift

honeymoon travel dates. And with good reason: Most Houston wedding

registry. Houston’s top registry retailers carry superb luggage selections,

couples are working folks, who have just spent tons of time planning,

including luxury roller bags and full-size (but super lightweight) suit-

then celebrating, their nuptial event. Taking off immediately after the

cases. Likewise, your bridal shower is great for upgrading your lingerie

wedding often isn’t an option.

collection with special pieces.

A great alternative: Take time for a two- or three-day “mini-moon”

Fun additions include monogrammed “wet bags” for swimsuits and water

right after the wedding—perhaps a jaunt to the Hill Country, or a Gulf

gear, designer passport holders, travel tech holders, and elegant kits of your

Coast getaway just a short drive from town. Then, later in the year, or

favorite products. And you might go ahead and pick up a new fragrance—

whenever you have more time (and, perhaps, when your bank account

something different, that you can dab on from time to time in years to come,

has rebounded a bit), indulge in the dream vacation you and your

to remind you both of your amazingly romantic honeymoon.

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 375

REAL WEDDINGS

05.19.18

MR.& MR S. //VIRGINIA & BRANDON//

COUPLE: Virginia Coker & Brandon Hevner | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 230 | WEDDING COLORS: Blue, Cream & Rose-Gold VENUE, FLOWERS & DECOR: Old Glory Ranch | HONEYMOON: Mexico

PHOTOGRAPHY: Svetlana Frolova CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Classic Cakes By Lori / Gowns Of Grace / Blair Hair Studio / Toast Entertainment / Pok-E-Joâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s BBQ

376 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

REAL WEDDINGS

HER FAVORITE SIP:

topo chico

HER FAVORITE SWEET:

strawberry shortcake

HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

hiking

WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:

his thoughtfulness and care for others

HIS FAVORITE SIP:

sweet tea

HIS FAVORITE SWEET:

german chocolate cake

HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:

grilling on the back porch

WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:

her love for family and friends, and her smile

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 377

REAL WEDDINGS

After a particularly rough day at work, there’s nothing quite like a marriage proposal to lift your spirits: “I was upset that Brandon seemed so quiet that evening,” Virginia says, recounting her blue mood. “When I asked Brandon what was wrong, he responded with, ‘There’s something I’ve been meaning to talk to you about.’” Virginia’s brief moment of panic changed to elation when Brandon followed by telling her, with tears in his eyes, “that he’d thought of so many big plans for the proposal, but at the end of the day he wanted to ask in ‘our place,’ and that the back porch would continue to be our place for all the years to come.” Their wedding at Old Glory Ranch in the beautiful Texas Hill Country expressed their love of family and the comforts of home, with a warm, welcoming, Texas-style celebration. “Our venue made it a stressfree affair,” says Virginia. The ceremony took place inside Old Glory’s lovely chapel beneath stained-glass windows and wood-beam ceilings. A charming patio reception featured string lights and rustic touches, while “beer burros” toted refreshments to thirsty guests. The evening’s comfort-food menu of brisket and mac-and-cheese kept guests fortified for hours of dancing, until the spectacular fireworks finale and the newlyweds’ getaway in a charming antique truck. Notes the bride, “The night was absolutely magical!”

378 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

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W 79 WEEDDDDIINNGGSSIINNHHOOUUSSTTOONN. .CCOOM M // 3379

| JUST MARRIED

YOUR NEW HOME |

/ / H O M E C H I C //

HOM E IN THE MARKET FOR A NEW “TOGETHER” HOME? WHETHER YOU’RE COMBINING, UPGRADING OR STARTING FRESH, HOUSTON IS A PRIME SPOT FOR NEWLYWED LIVING.

380 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

| JUST MARRIED

Inside the loop is where it’s at for Houston newlyweds on the hunt for a newlywed nest that’s equal parts convenience and… cool.

Expert Sarai Rumph of Rumph Realty dishes on what

YOUR NEW HOME |

Rumph notes. “You can walk to restaurants, events and activities, and you can take Uber out on the weekends if you don’t want to drive—it’s not pricey at all.”

neighborhoods are in highest demand, why young couples love these spots, and how you’ll need to prep for your own newlywed home purchase. HAUTE HOODS While the entire inner loop area beckons newlyweds with a vast array of home options, Rumph says three neighborhoods are in highest demand: the Heights, Montrose and Midtown. “Newlyweds want to be close to where all the action is, and these neighborhoods have it all,”

In addition to being close to all the action, these neighborhoods are close to the downtown Houston offices where many recently wed young professionals work. “Being able to avoid a major commute is a huge plus,” Rumph says, noting that staying out of Houston’s notorious traffic means less stress, and more time to play. NICE DIGS You’ll find smaller homes, historic bungalows and

W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 381

| JUST MARRIED

YOUR NEW HOME |

fixer-uppers all over the Heights and Montrose neighborhoods.

I NS I D E TH E L O O P

These options are ideal for the couple that wants to invest in value-

ready to pull the trigger when you find the home you love. “You

holding property at a lower price, and dive into a hands-on

need to get pre-approved for your loan, before you even consider

project together. But Rumph says the majority of her

seeing houses,” Rumph says. Pre-approval doesn’t take long if you

young-couple clients are choosing modern townhomes,

have your paperwork together, and it will help ensure that you’re

which are plentiful all over the inner loop.

ready to make an offer the moment you find what you’ve been

Want to buy a new home together? Be

looking for. “Townhomes are very popular,” she says. “You don’t have to really worry about anything, and they’ve got lots

And while buying a new home is exciting, “It’s a big decision, and

of amenities, like rooftop decks.” And while some couples

it can be stressful,” she acknowledges. “But the stressful part really

aren’t crazy about the stacked, multi-level layout of some

doesn’t last long, and it’s so worth it.” For the majority of motivated

townhomes, others are making the most out of it by

buyers, the average duration from loan pre-approval to closing is

renting out the lower level to generate income as they

about two to three months, give or take, Rumph says. After that,

establish themselves in their careers and build their

comes the true fun, as she reminds us, “You get to build memories

financial foundation.

as a family, in your new home, together.”

382 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

// W E D D I N G R E S O U R C E //

DI RE CTORY ALTERATIONS

The Gallery 37

The Villagio 95

MW Couture 203

The Gardens at Madeley Manor 85 Heather’s Glen 32 HESS Club 73

Waters Edge 16-17

BEAUTY, H E A LTH & FITN E S S 2BPure - Lauren Falls Makeup & Hair 220 Etoilly Artistry 219 Primp And Blow 221 Kiss And Makeup Houston 225 Mrs. In Training 225 Verticality Pole Fitness 222-223 BED & BREA KFA S T Sara’s Inn 69

Hilton Houston Post Oak 67

C A K E S & D E SSE RT S

Hilton Houston North 88

Cakes by Gina 287

Hotel Galvez & Spa 42

Dessert Gallery Bakery & Café 290

Hotel ZaZa Memorial City 15

Edible Designs 291

Hotel ZaZa Museum District 4-5

Edible Moments 292

Houston Racquet Club 83 The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa 33 Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa 118 Julia Ideson Library 71

ARMANDOS 281

JW Marriott Houston Downtown 31

Capitol Beverage Service 299

Kemah Gardens 84

Lulu’s 281

King River Ranch 116

15 Acres 89 ARMANDOS 281 Ashton Gardens North & West 35 The Astorian 8-9 The Ballroom at Bayou Place 23 Balmoral Crystal Clear Lagoon Houston 129

The Wynden and Masraff’s 36

Hilton Americas - Houston 47

BAR SERV ICE S

C EREMONY & R E C E P TIO N

The Westin Houston Memorial City 79

La Cantera Resort & Spa 68 Las Velas 75 Le Méridien Houston Downtown 88 Lulu’s 281 The Lyceum 72 Magnolia Hotel Houston 49

Susie’s Cakes & Confections 288-289 Tiff’s Treats 295 Virginia’s Cakes 286 Wedding Cakes by Tammy Allen 293 Wink Sweets & Treats 290 C U L I N A RY SE R VI CES ARMANDOS 281 Café Natalie 279 Capitol Beverage Service 299 Cordúa 277 Jackson & Company 278 Lulu’s 281 Swift + Co. 24-25

Magnolia Meadows 70 Marriott CityPlace at Springwoods Village 91

D E ST I N AT I ON W EDDINGS &

Marriott Houston North 87

H ON E YM OO N

Moffitt Oaks 123

Balmoral Crystal Clear Lagoon Houston 129

Northgate Country Club 34

Bernhardt Winery 120

Old Glory Ranch 120

Eagle Dancer Ranch 107

Omni Houston Hotel 45

Four Oaks at Mound Creek Ranch 90

Ouisie’s Table 99

Hotel Galvez & Spa 42

Petroleum Club of Houston 32

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa 118

Pine Forest Country Club 81

King River Ranch 116

DoubleTree by Hilton Houston

Plantation on the Bay 119

La Cantera Resort & Spa 68

Downtown 101

The Post Oak Hotel 21

The Lyceum 72

DoubleTree by Hilton Houston

Raveneaux Country Club OBC, IFC

Marriott CityPlace at Springwoods Village 91

Greenway Plaza 74

Sandlewood Manor 13

Old Glory Ranch 120

Downtown Aquarium 87

Sara’s Inn 69

Plantation on the Bay 119

The Dunlavy 64-65

Southern Lace Estates 117

Pompano Beach Club 373

Eagle Dancer Ranch 107

Texas Renaissance Festival 110-111

Southern Lace Estates 117

Four Oaks at Mound Creek Ranch 90

The Tremont House 43

The Bell Tower on 34th 11 Bernhardt Winery 120 Boardwalk FantaSea Yacht Charters 86 The Bougainvilleas 77 Brennan’s of Houston 30 Cadillac Bar 90 The Carriage House 105 Chama Gaúcha 79 Corinthian Houston 2-3

WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM / 383

| JUST MARRIED

YOUR NEW HOME |

// W E D D I N G R E S O U R C E //

DI RE CTORY FL OWERS, DECO R & R E N TA LS

P HO T O B O OT H S

T R A N SP ORTAT I O N

Any Occasion Tents & Events 248

LG Event Entertainment & Production 333

Western Motor Coach 344

Blooms Design Studio 261

Oh Snap! Selfie Photo Booth 355

D2R Design House 257 Dream Bouquet 247 EB Inc. Event Rentals 249 Events de Luxe 251 Glenwood Weber Design 275 Haute Flowers & Events 246 Kirksey Gregg Productions 245

VI D E OG R A P H Y

R EG I ST RY, G I F T S & FAVO R S

Ama by Aisha 351

Bering’s 311

Blanca Duran Photography 354

Kuhl-Linscomb 323

Meant To Be Films 366

Natalie Annette 317

Reverent Wedding Films 365

Tiff’s Treats 295

W E D D I N G G OW N S & AT T IRE

Plants N’ Petals 240-241

R EH E A R SA L D I N N E R S & P R E - W E D D I N G C E L E B R AT I ON S

RaoFactor 244

Américas 133

Belle Âme Bridal 201

ARMANDOS 133

Joan Pillow Bridal Salon 183

Bernhardt Winery 120

MW Couture 203

Brennan’s of Houston 134

Now & Forever Bridal Boutique 185

Cadillac Bar 134

Parvani Vida Bridal & Formal 189

I N V ITATIONS & S TATIO NE RY

Chama Gaúcha 134

Stephen Grace Atelier 187

Bering’s 311

Churrascos 134

Memory Lane Paperie 324

DoubleTree by Hilton Houston

River Oaks Plant House 263 Swift + Co. 24-25 The Events Co. 243 Todd Events 6-7

J EWEL RY

Bella Bridesmaids 186

W E D D I N G SE R VI C ES A Day To Remember 149

Greenway Plaza 134

Breathtaking Events 145

Bailey Banks & Biddle 174-175

Hilton Americas - Houston 135

Tenenbaum Jewelers 171

The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa 135

Zadok Jewelers 167

Ibiza Food & Wine Bar 135

L IGH TING & SOU ND Bright Star Productions 254-255 LG Event Entertainment & Production 333

Lulu’s 135 Ouisie’s Table 99

YO U R N E W H O M E

MUSIC & ENTERTA IN M E N T Danny Ray And The Acoustic Production 341

Waters Edge 136

Emerald City Band 335

The Wynden and Masraff’s 136

Scott Graham Piano 334 PH OTOGRAPHY Adam Nyholt, Photographer 356-357 Ama by Aisha 351 Blanca Duran Photography 354 Civic Photos 353 Eri Reyna Photography 363 Jessica Frey Photography 355 Kelli Durham Photography 359 Oh Snap! Selfie Photo Booth 355 Stephania Campos Photography 361

384 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M

W E D D I N G SH O W S The I Do! Wedding Soiree 1

The Post Oak Hotel 136

LG Event Entertainment & Production 333

Kat Creech Events 143 Unveiled Bliss 145

Le Méridien Houston Downtown 135 McCormick & Schmick’s 136

Grayhouse Events Atelier 155

Rumph Realty 381

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