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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!
| TO THE READER |
MAGAZINE
T HI S I S SUE IS DEDIC AT E D TO BE A U TY in all its many forms, and the talent that sees
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WEBSITE
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SOCIAL
/WEDDINGS / I N
H O U S T O N
it, creates it and captures it. I am so in love with all of our beautiful pictorial spreads, and deeply grateful to nationally acclaimed wedding stylist and decorator Todd Fiscus of Todd Events. Collaborating with Todd for our styled shoots on pages 50-59 and 200-208 was a dream. Pages 218-223 feature the creativity of Bahara Jamea of H-town’s legendary Plants N’ Petals, bringing my vision to life effortlessly. Our Texas-themed spread on pages 269-272, spearheaded
20 fall/winter 18
by Claudia de Velasco of A Day to Remember, showcases a creative collaboration by a team of talented Weddings in Houston partners. Enjoy this beautiful issue with its curated collection of expert advice, along with custom planning tools and 32 “Real Wedding” features, to help you plan your own once-in-a-lifetime occasion. And perhaps avoid some of those “I wish I’d…” wedding-planning moments, with the help of real-life bride advice! Finally, make sure to follow us on social for details on our next I Do! Wedding Soiree, where you’ll experience the magic of Weddings in Houston’s finest talents in person and on brilliant display.
FOUNDER & CHAIRMAN JB Day PUBLISHER & CEO Radhika J. Day PRESIDENT Vik Day EDITOR Natasha Garber ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Lester Childres, Jenny Frugé
R AD HIK A J . DAY / / Publisher & CEO
OPERATIONS MANAGER Sue Conner PRODUCTION MANAGER Carrie Skupinsky CONTENT COORDINATOR Rachel Montoya OFFICE MASCOT Bella the Husky @BellaBooHouston ART DIRECTOR Rebecca Cashwell GRAPHIC DESIGNERS John and Malia Gattas CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Larry Fagala, Sylvie Gil, Ama by Aisha, Eri for Taylor Golden, Civic Photos SET STYLING Todd Fiscus, Bahara Jamea, Claudia de Velasco WARDROBE STYLING Summar Salah
AUGUST: Monique Lhuillier Gown, Headpiece Joan Pillow Bridal Salon / Earrings, Wedding Ring Zadok Jewlers Cameo Ring Sloan/Hall / Photography Sylvie Gil / Design, Decor & Styling Todd Events / Wardobe Styling Summar Salah Makeup VCI Artist Victoria Callaway / Hair Dennis Clendennen / Assistant Anna Kalita SEPTEMBER: Photography Corbin Gurkin / Flowers Tulipina / Gown Georgia Young Couture OCTOBER: Michal Medina Gown Now & Forever Bridal Boutique / Earrings Joan Pillow Bridal Salon / Boots Miron Crosby / Photography Sylvie Gil / Design, Decor, Bouquet & Styling Todd Events / Wardobe Styling Summar Salah / Makeup VCI Artist Victoria Callaway / Hair Dennis Clendennen / Assistant Anna Kalita NOVEMBER: Ines Di Santo Gown, Maria Elena Headpiece, Jewelry Joan Pillow Bridal Salon / Photography Ama by Aisha / Venue The Dunlavy / Flowers & Decor Plants N' Petals / Makeup & Hair Etoilly Artistry DECEMBER: Veil, Headpiece, Choker Joan Pillow Bridal Salon / Earrings Zadok Jewelers / Armani Jacket Neiman Marcus Houston / Photography Sylvie Gil / Design, Decor & Styling Todd Events / Wardobe Styling Summar Salah / Makeup VCI Artist Victoria Callaway / Hair Dennis Clendennen / Assistant Anna Kalita JANUARY: Hayley Paige Gown, Haute Bride Headpiece, Jewelry Now & Forever Bridal Boutique / Photography Ama by Aisha Venue The Dunlavy / Flowers, Rentals & Decor Plants N' Petals / Makeup & Hair Etoilly Artistry / Tabletop Kuhl-Linscomb
12 / 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 in January and July. Copyright© 2018, 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.
CONTE NT S //WEDDING PLANNING// CEREMONY + RECEPTION
planning
28 : HOUSTON IN CINEMATIC STYLE Red Carpet Reception Venues
TIMELINE
50 : FLORAL FEVER
P G 162
High-Drama Wedding Design from Todd Fiscus Of Todd Events 62 : HAUTE HOTELS Houston Hotels For All Guest Lists 74 : WHAT A REMARKABLE SITE Out-Of-The-Box Wedding Locations 88 : IN THE CLUB Top Perks Of Country Club Weddings 98 : I DO RE-DO Real Brides On What They'd Change 102 : VERSATILE VENUES Adaptable Spaces For Any Style 108 : EASY ELEGANCE Laid-Back Luxe Locations 116 : BRIDES AND THEIR TRIBES Sweet And Unique Real Bridesmaid Proposals
DESTINATION WEDDINGS
50
FLORAL FEVER
High-Drama Wedding Design from Todd Events
THE I DO! WEDDING SOIREE 120 : AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER Our Spring Show At Corinthian Houston
WEDDING SERVICES 150 : LADIES WHO LUNCH Gather Your Gals For Food, Drinks And Pre-Wedding Fun 162 : I DO! WEDDING PLANNER Use Our Timeline To Keep Your Wedding Planning On Track 167 : LICENSE TO WED Everything You Need To Know To Make It Legal
44
SHON &JOHN
122 : ESCAPE UNDER 60 6 Destinations At An Hour's Drive Or Less 128 : WE'RE OUTTA HERE Hill Country And Beyond 136 : SWEET SPOTS OF THE SOUTH 3 Superb Southern Destinations For Weekend Weddings
18 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
F A L L / W I N T E R 2018
I S SUE
145 : REHERASAL DINNER GUIDE Browse And Compare Local Venues
120 : THE I DO! WEDDING SOIREE Houston's Luxury Wedding Event
147 : RECEPTION LOCATION GUIDE
383 : WEDDING RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Our Guide To Local Venues With Pricing, Capacity And Amenities
Our Trusted Houston Wedding Vendors, Listed By Category
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 / / JEWELRY
CAKES + CULINARY
170 : REAL ROCKS, REAL TALK Top Tips For Ring Shopping
280 : FOOD FOR FUN Excite Your Guests With Engaging Eats
175 : WHAT’S HOT: STACKS
286 : EPICUREAN DELIGHTS Small Plates With Big Flavors From Top Houston Caterers
AND WRAPS
Rings Go Round And Round... And Round
294 : DE LA CREME Q&A Baker Heidi Holmon On Pared-Down Perfection
176 : WHAT'S HOT: PETALS AND VINES Hair Jewelry Inspired By Nature 179 : WHAT'S HOT: ENGAGEMENT RINGS Our Favorite Diamond Dazzlers 180 : ANATOMY OF AN
ENGAGEMENT RING
From Crown To Band, Here's What's What In Ringspeak
2388
HAIR & MAKEUP
298 : HAVE YOUR CAKE...AND EAT IT, TOO Houston Cake Artists On Bold Display
Beauty Inspiration For The Big Day
BEAUTY HEALTH + FITNESS WEDDING ATTIRE 184 : 6 TIPS TO SHOP THE DRESS Find Your Gown The No-Stress Way 194 : WHAT’S HOT: CLUTCHES Tote Your Touchups In Style 196 : WHAT'S HAUTE ON THE RUNWAY From The Catwalk To The Aisle
224 : PROFESSIONALLY PRETTY Call On The Pros For Bigtime Beauty 230 : WHAT’S HOT: FRAGRANCE Signature Scents For Her 234 : LOVE IN ACTION Find Passion Through Dance 238 : HAIR & MAKEUP Showstopping Wedding Day Looks 243 : WHAT’S HOT: FOR THE SPA LOVER Unwind And Indulge, Right At Home
2948
DE LA CREME Q&A
198 : MAIDS IN THE MEADOW Bridesmaids Dresses In Full Bloom 200 : BOHO GLAM Rustic Chic, Reimagined By Todd Fiscus of Todd Events
FLOWERS, DECOR + RENTALS
INVITATIONS, REGISTRY + FAVORS
246 : PERSONALIZED TO PERFECTION Brand Your Big Day In Style
306 : INVITATION TIMELINE
214 : WHAT’S HOT: PETAL PUSHERS Floral-Print Sandals Steal The Show
269 : A TEXAS RANCH ROMANCE
308 : WHAT'S HOT: FOR THE PARTY HOST
218 : BEAUTY ON THE BAYOU
276 : BRIDAL BOUQUETS IN BLOOM
All That Glitters At The Dunlavy
20 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
Rustic Chic Vows At Briscoe Manor
Inspo From Fine Houston Florists
When To Order, When To Send
Throw A Bash, Make A Splash 309 : YOU'RE INVITED
Classic And Contemporary Designs
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 / /
REAL WEDDINGS
316 : WHAT’S HOT: FOR THE GARDEN GURU
38 : COURTNEY & JOSH
Goods And Goodies For The Great Outdoors
44 : SHON & JOHN 80 : LAUREN & OREN
318 : REGISTER BY ROOM A Curated Home Begins Here
84 : DANIELLE & MICHAEL 95 : HEATHER & JASON
319 : WHAT'S HOT: FOR THE TRAVELER Get Set Before You Jetset
112 : ERIN & BRAD 133 : CHRISTA & KEVIN 140 : WENDY & JOHN
MUSIC+ ENTERTAINMENT 326: DANCE INTO THE NIGHT Tips To Keep Guests On Their Feet
159 : HANNAH & SCOTT
2188
BEAUTY ON T H E B AY O U
Rich Fall Hues Meet Radiant Bridal Couture At The Dunlavy
PHOTOGRAHY + VIDEOGRAPHY
164 : DAVIQUE & TAREQ 181 : JENNIFER & DOUGLAS 210 : ALLISON & ERIC 215 : PAULA & DAVID 231 : MAGGI & MATT 240 : MARIA & MOHAMMED 258 : NATALIE & SHAWN 262 : AUBREY & CHASE
342 : MAKE IT CLICK How To Choose Your Wedding Photographer
266 : CANDICE & MATTHEW
350 : FILM CLIPS: YOUR LOVE STORY Capture Important Moments With Wedding Videography
312 : NELSON & JAMES
274 : RACHEL & JONATHAN 302 : SAMANTHA & KYLE
323 : MADDIE & NICK 329 : ALI & ALEX 332 : LAURA & WYATT 336 : CIARA & MARC
HAPPILY EVER AFTER
3298
ALI &ALEX
370 : GOTTA GET AWAY
Honeymoon Planning Tips To Make Travel A Breeze 376 : HOME CHIC HOME
A Top Houston Realtor Reveals Her House-Buying Tips
22 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
351 : RACHEL & TAYLOR 356 : SARA & AUSTIN 360 : ROBYN & DAVID 364 : SARAH & JOSEPH 373 : MEREDITH & SETH 379 : ROBYN & ZAC 381 : BRIDGETTE & JOSHUA
photo: j. cogliondro ' phoiogrophy . � ·,,
24 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
P H OTO : A M A BY A ISH A // VENUE: THE DUNL AVY // GOW N & AC C E S S OR I E S : J OAN PI LLOW BR I DAL SALON FLOWE RS & DE CO R: PL ANTS N' P ETALS // MAK EUP & HAIR: ETOI LLY ARTI S TRY
00 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
28 CEREMONY & RECEPTION
122 D E S T I N AT I O N W E D D I N G S
150 WEDDING SERVICES
PLAN NI NG //
F I N D T H E P E R F E C T P L AC E
//
CASTLE OR COUNTRY CLUB? HOTEL BALLROOM OR HISTORIC MANSION? SEASIDE RESORT OR HILL COUNTRY RANCH? FIND HOUSTON'S MOST COVETED VENUES HERE, PLUS DESTINATION HOT SPOTS BOTH NEAR AND FAR.
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 27
DE CO R: TO DD E V E NTS // W EDDIN G P L ANNER: GRAYHOUSE EVE N TS ATE LI E R // LI G HTI N G : BR I G HT S TAR PROD UC TI ON S // C AK E : S U S I E 'S C AK E S & CO N F EC T IO N S
20 18
HOUSTON IN CINEMATIC
Style DREAMING OF A RED-CARPET WEDDING ENTRANCE? YOUR NAME UP IN LIGHTS? A HIGH-DRAMA CELEBRATION WITH CELEBRITY CACHET? THESE HOUSTON WEDDING VENUES ARE MADE FOR THE SPOTLIGHT!
WRITER NATASHA GARBER PHOTO ADAM NYHOLT, PHOTOGRAPHER LOCATION THE HOUSTONIAN HOTEL, CLUB & SPA
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 29
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CEREMONY + RECEPTION |
THE ASTORIAN Dramatic Digs: The Astorian’s industrialchic exterior reveals an opulent private loft space featuring floor-to-ceiling windows looking out upon downtown Houston and its lively surrounding neighborhoods— home to art studios, chic eateries and some of Houston’s most architecturally significant buildings. Lights, Camera, Action: Pendant lamps and dazzling crystal chandeliers blend with the romantic glow of hundreds of Edison bulbs in this Art Deco-inspired space, which comes to life as darkness falls…and the party begins. Room To Revel: Offering 14,000 square feet of flexible celebration space, along with 14-foot-high ceilings, a gourmet kitchen and bar, and two private suites, The Astorian accommodates grand events PH OTO : A M A BY A ISHA // LOC ATION: THE AS TORIAN DE CO R: DRE AM BOUQUET // W EDDIN G P L ANNER: K AT CREEC H E VE N TS
30 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
for up to 700 people.
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CEREMONY + RECEPTION |
THE BELL TOWER ON 34th Dramatic Digs: Just minutes away from downtown Houston, you’ll find The Bell Tower on 34th—a one-of-a-kind indooroutdoor wedding space where photo ops abound and varied ballroom options offer
something
for
every
spotlight-
seeking couple. Water WOW: The Bell Tower on 34th’s most eye-catching feature is its 30-foothigh water wall—a cinematic backdrop for
magnificent
wedding
ceremonies,
especially when illuminated in shades of romantic pink or purple. Room to Revel: For a superstar-style reception with a few hundred of your closest
friends
and
family
members,
opt for The Bell Tower’s Campanile Ballroom, featuring a dramatic curving staircase down which you can make your grand entrance in the role of a lifetime—newlyweds!
32 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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CEREMONY + RECEPTION |
THE REVAIRE Dramatic Digs: From its expansive portecochère, to its 4,000-square-foot industrialelegant Gallery, to the natural-wood accents and gleaming wall sconces of its ultra-modern Great Room, to the intimacy and sophisticated comforts of its private lounges, The Revaire, a magnificently repurposed 1942 munitions factory, recently opened its doors to red-carpet-ready wedding bookings, and is already drawing raves. All In: Owned by renowned Houston catering firm A Fare Extraordinaire, whose high-profile clients have included the likes of Taylor Swift, Drake and Anna Wintour, The Revaire can provide everything from upscale rentals and custom-printed paper goods, and celebrity DJs to sommelier-curated wine packages, so you can focus on getting ready for your close-up. Room Revaire’s
To
Revel:
sleek
Enclosed within The
glass-and-steel
exterior
is
space enough to hold 1,500 of your closest friends and family, for ceremony, cocktails, dining, dancing…and after-hours fun.
HOTEL ZAZA MUSEUM DISTRICT Dramatic Digs: Overlooking the Museum District’s magnificent Mecom Fountain, the city’s original Hotel ZaZa (a second location just opened in Memorial City) is where many a celebrity has stayed during Houston visits— and where many a celebrity-style wedding has taken place in the chic Phantom Ballroom. Suite Treat: For pre- and post-wedding fun, or wedding-night romance, book one of the hotel’s Magnificent Seven suites; each has its own lavish thematic decor, from rock star decadence to gilded Italian opulence. Room to Revel: While the aforementioned Phantom Ballroom is the go-to choice for larger wedding celebrations, the 11th-floor Grapevine Room, and Prohibition Era-inspired Conspiracy Room and The Vault, can be configured for more intimate gatherings, including glamorous rehearsal dinners and engagement parties. 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 |
CORINTHIAN HOUSTON Dramatic Digs: Named for its majestic colonnade of Corinthian columns, the Corinthian Houston, one of the city’s most iconic and elegant historic venues, will make you feel like a classic screen idol on your wedding day. Star Ceremony: Make your way down a grand, petal-strewn aisle to say your “I do’s” in the spotlight on the venue’s raised landing, as gathered guests look on with adoration. Room to Revel: Go ahead, invite more than a thousand of your family, friends and admiring fans to your oncein-a-lifetime occasion—with its soaring ceilings and expansive grand hall, the Corinthian Houston can accommodate them all, along with exquisite furnishings, lavish floral arrangements, and catering by one of several top Houston caterers.
THE DUNLAVY Dramatic Digs: Located on the banks of P HOTO : PH ARRIS PH OTOGRPAHY // LOC ATION: CORINTHIAN HOU S TON // D E COR : PL AN TS N ' PE TALS
Buffalo Bayou and Lost Lake, The Dunlavy offers an alluring combination of highdrama glamour and natural splendor. With its “glass treehouse” feel and ultraluxe crystal chandeliers (more than 40 of them!), this centrally located haven feels both enticingly exclusive and exceptionally welcoming. Flexible
&
Fabulous:
When you
book The Dunlavy for your private event, you have full use of the venue’s shaded outdoor patio and glass-walled indoor reception space. Which means you don’t have to choose between an al-fresco lounge vibe and formal dining-and-dancing elegance—you can have both. Room
to
Revel: Designed
to
be
“perfectly scaled for intimate gatherings,” The Dunlavy has a maximum capacity of 200, but works best for smaller celebraPHOTO: SELECT STUDIOS P HOTO : A M A BY A ISH A // LOC ATION: THE DUNL AVY // DECO R : PL AN TS N ' PE TALS 36 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
tions, with a focus on fine food, craft cocktails and celebrity-wedding style.
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REAL WEDDINGS
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0 2 . 1 7. 1 8
MR.& MR S. //COURTNEY & JOSH //
COUPLE: Courtney Cohen & Joshua Garson I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 295 I WEDDING COLORS: Dusty Pink & Purple, Metallics VENUE: The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa I FLOWERS, DECOR & RENTALS: Todd Events I PHOTOGRAPHY: Adam Nyholt, Photographer CAKE: Susie’s Cakes & Confections I REGISTRY: Kuhl-Linscomb I COORDINATION: Grayhouse Events Atelier I LIGHTING & SOUND: Bright Star Productions WEDDING DRESS: Joan Pillow Bridal Salon I HONEYMOON: Thailand & Cambodia
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Jessie’s Girls / Divisi Strings / DGZ Invitations / Mike’s Dance Floor Rentals / Ice Designs / Jonny Black Productions / Sculpting With Time Productions
38 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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REAL WEDDINGS
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
french 75 (with vodka instead of gin…some call it a french 76) HER FAVORITE SWEET:
warm apple pie and crispy chocolate-chip cookies HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
walking through the farmers’ market and brunch with friends WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his unique combination of tenacity and warmth
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
vodka negroni
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
pumpkin pie with whipped cream HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
a run on lake michigan or barry’s bootcamp class followed by an al fresco brunch WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her confidence, and the fact that she pushes me to be the best version of myself 40 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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REAL WEDDINGS
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When your typically picky sister says the cute guy you’ve met at a mixer is “worth a date,” you’d be wise to act on her advice. Just ask Courtney, who took her “tough critic” sib’s recommendation to heart, and will forever be grateful that she did. That first date with Josh led to a second, then many, many more, until one fateful May evening when Josh surprised Courtney with an outdoor proposal as family and friends looked on from a nearby rooftop. The couple, who reside in Chicago, chose the bride’s hometown of Houston for their winter nuptials, transforming The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa into a wedding wonderland, with the help of planner Jim Gray of Grayhouse Events Atelier and designer Todd Fiscus of Todd Events. “The chuppah and ceiling treatment were two of our personal favorites,” Courtney says. “Todd’s creativity was unlike anything we had ever seen. He and his team truly took our vision and created a perfect evening.” She adds: “The weekend was full of many special touches— everything from our welcome baskets, which were filled with items we love, to a customized letter sharing our favorite Houston spots for our out-of-towners to enjoy, to our iced-coffee cart on the dance floor during our late-night bites! Every detail was thought through, leading to a night that truly felt like ours.”
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 41
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REAL WEDDINGS
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04.15.17
MR.& MR S. // SHON & JOHN //
COUPLE: Shon Johnson & John Cruise I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 260 I WEDDING COLORS: White, Gray, Blue & Silver VENUE: Corinthian Houston I FLOWERS, DECOR & RENTALS: Plants N’ Petals CATERER: Jackson & Company I CAKE: Cakes By Gina
PHOTOGRAPHY: Pharris Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Jane Deux Event Management & Consulting / Miles David / White Runway / GTX Productions / Shawn Sounds
44 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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REAL WEDDINGS
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
lemonade
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
peach cobbler
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
spa day, girl time, and hanging out with my hubby WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his laid-back personality and how well people take to him—he truly is a people person
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
red wine
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
butter-pecan ice cream
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
in bed with shon
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her ambition, and how hard she works
46 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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REAL WEDDINGS
Introduced by a mutual friend two decades ago, Shon and John’s relationship started out as a professional one: “I was in the real-estate finance business and Shon was a real-estate appraiser and construction contractor,” John explains. “Over the years, Shon and I spent many hours strategizing and developing business ideas for projects that eventually led to a profitable business relationship.” And that meeting of the minds, he says, ultimately led not only to their co-ownership of popular Phil & Derek’s Jazz Lounge, but also to the deepest kind of love. The pair celebrated their marriage union with a magnificent wedding at Corinthian Houston, draped in crystals and filled with lush white floral arrangements by Plants N’ Petals. Notes John: “The venue was palatial, the decor was astonishing, the food and music were outstanding, and best of all, Shon looked like a queen. It was everything we had imagined, and more.” Besides being a beautiful event, their wedding was a charitable one: In lieu of gifts, the couple asked that their guests donate to their two favorite charities, while the newlyweds presented checks for $10,000 each to their own favorite charities at the end of the evening.
48 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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| WEDDING PLANNING
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FF
#FLORALFEVER
MONIQUE LHUILLIER GOWN, HEADPIECE: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON // WEDDING RING: ZADOK JEWELERS CAMEO RING: SLOAN/HALL // GUCCI SHOES: NEIMAN MARCUS 50 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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FLORAL FEVER Petals and leaves and vines, oh my! Everywhere you look,
LOVE
is in full bloom. PHOTOS: SYLVIE GIL STYLING, SETS, BOUQUETS & DECOR: TODD EVENTS WARDROBE STYLING: SUMMAR SALAH MAKEUP: VCI ARTIST VICTORIA CALLAWAY ASSISTING: ANNA KALITA HAIR: DENNIS CLENDENNEN CAKE: SUSIE’S CAKES & CONFECTIONS
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 51
| WEDDING PLANNING
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FF
# FL O RA LF
EV ER
OPPOSITE PAGE - CALLIGRAPHY: A FINE FLOURISH
52 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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THIS PAGE, TOP LEFT - HEADPIECE: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON // RINGS, EARRINGS: ZADOK JEWELERS THIS PAGE, TOP RIGHT - NAEEM KHAN GOWN: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON // RINGS: ZADOK JEWELERS
54 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
FF
#FLORALFEVER
| WEDDING PLANNING
:
CEREMONY + RECEPTION |
FF
#FLORALFEVER
VEIL, HEADPIECE & CHOKER: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON // ARMANI JACKET: NEIMAN MARCUS HOUSTON // FENDI PANTS: SAKS FIFTH AVENUE HOUSTON GALLERIA // RINGS & EARRINGS: ZADOK JEWELERS // DIOR SHOES: TOOTSIE'S
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 57
| WEDDING PLANNING
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Floral texture n! is so i
OPPOSITE PAGE - NAEEM KHAN GOWN: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON // JEWELRY: ZADOK JEWELERS
58 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
FF
#FLORALFEVER
| WEDDING PLANNING
:
CEREMONY + RECEPTION |
PH OTO : L A RRY FAGAL A
// H AU T E //
HOTE LS V E R S AT I L E C E R E M O N Y S PA C E ?
CHECK! EXPANSIVE BALLROOM? CHECK! GOURMET CATERING, GRACIOUS SERVICE
AND ULTRA-COMFORTABLE ON-SITE GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS? CHECK, CHECK AND…CHECK! THERE’S NOTHING LIKE A HOTEL WEDDING FOR MAXIMUM CONVENIENCE AND REFINED LUXURY ALL IN ONE PACKAGE. AND THESE EIGHT HOUSTON-AREA PROPERTIES ARE UP TO THE TASK.
WRITER NATASHA GARBER : LOCATION HILTON HOUSTON POST OAK
62 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
| WEDDING PLANNING
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CEREMONY + RECEPTION |
THE RISING STAR: THE HOTEL ZAZA MEMORIAL CITY Sister property to Hotel ZaZa in the hip Museum District, the brand-new Hotel ZaZa Memorial City brings the ZaZa brand of edgy elegance to another hot Houston zip code. The new ZaZa has all the luxe decadence of a destination resort—maybe it’s the Beach Club resort-style pool…or the chic Tipping Point restaurant and terrace—but with the added benefit of a city-view ballroom that's certain to become one of the city’s most coveted wedding celebration spaces. THE ARTFUL URBANITE: JW MARRIOTT HOUSTON DOWNTOWN A circa-1910 structure that’s secured its spot as one of the city’s most modern wedding locations? It may seem like a contradiction, but in the case of downtown Houston’s JW Marriott hotel, it’s a perfect marriage of old and new. From the moment guests enter the hotel’s Main Street lobby, they’ll find themselves surrounded by fine art, sleek PH OTO : KH ANH N GUYEN , S TILLSMITH COLLECTIVE // LOC ATIO N : J W M AR R I OTT HOUS TON D OWN TOWN
surfaces and contemporary furnishings. Then there are the JW’s wedding spaces themselves—
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each a private oasis of urban elegance, all located in a building that is an integral part of Houston history (ask the staff to reveal some of its secrets…you’ll be intrigued by what you hear!). THE QUINTESSENTIAL CLASSIC: THE HOUSTONIAN HOTEL, CLUB & SPA For true traditionalists, and those seeking the ultimate in uniquely Houstonian hospitality, no Texas property has more local cred than The Houstonian. Beloved by visiting dignitaries and local society scions alike, The Houstonian is an 18-acre wooded haven right in the heart of the city. Say your “I do’s” outdoors beneath the hotel’s massive oak tree, then bring the festivities into the dazzling Grande Ballroom, for a classic Houston wedding celebration your guests will remember and revere. THE INTERNATIONAL ICON: THE HILTON HOUSTON POST OAK If an authentic cultural experience is what you seek for your Houston wedding, the Hilton Houston Post Oak is here to serve your needs. Not PH OTO : A DAM NYHOLT // LOC ATION: THE HOUS TONIAN HOTE L, C LU B & S PA // D E COR : TOD D E VE N TS
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just a gorgeous place to say your vows, and
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celebrate your union with up to 750 of your nearest and dearest, the Hilton Houston Post Oak also specializes in South Asian weddings, Jewish weddings that require a dedicated Kosher kitchen, and all manner of global affairs where custom international menus and expertise in cultural ritual and tradition are a must. THE ALL-NIGHTER: OMNI HOUSTON HOTEL From pre-wedding prep at on-site Mokara Spa, to pool-deck ceremonies, to lavish receptions in the spacious Regency Ballroom, to late-night after-parties in the hotel’s swank Black Swan nightclub, the Omni Houston Hotel is a fine choice for couples who want it all, all day and night. Bonus: The Omni offers a complimentary honeymoon stay at one of Omni’s 14 resort destinations to couples who book their wedding at this prime Houston property. THE GULF COAST GRAND DAME: PH OTO : A DAM NYHOLT // LOC ATION: THE OMNI HOUS TON H OTE L
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HOTEL GALVEZ For more than a century,
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Hotel Galvez & Spa, a Wyndham Grand Hotel, has been delighting visitors with Old World style and hospitality in a glorious Galveston setting on the Gulf of Mexico. Wedding ceremonies at the “Queen of the Gulf” often take place on Centennial Green, a vast lawn overlooking the gulf’s sparkling blue waters, while post-I-do celebrations in the opulent Music Hall hearken back to another time and place, but with all the state-of-the-art technology and modern amenities modern couples expect. THE JAZZ GEM: THE TREMONT HOUSE Sister property to Hotel Galvez, Galveston’s Tremont House, also a Wyndham Grand Hotel, offers a boutique-hotel wedding experience in a refined 19th-century building steps away from The Strand—Galveston’s beloved historic district, brimming with eclectic shopping, fine restaurants and a bustling nightlife scene. Wedding guests PH OTO : AKIL BE NNETT // LOC ATION: HOTEL GALVEZ & SPA
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can enjoy cocktails among the palms of the Tremont’s lush atrium lobby, and live jazz
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on Friday evening, followed by your unforgettable wedding celebration in the brick-walled Sam Houston Room or the exquisite Tremont House Ballroom on Saturday. THE BIG DEAL: HILTON AMERICASHOUSTON With luxurious space for weddings expecting upwards of 2,000 guests, the Hilton Americas-Houston is a longstanding favorite for couples of South Asian and Middle Eastern descent, as large guest lists and multipart wedding festivities are de rigueur for cultures of both regions. Dazzling downtown Houston views, lavish ballrooms, in-house expertise in authentic international cuisines, and ample accommodations for visiting guests make this modern property a perfect choice for couples of any culture who want it all, all in once place, with PH OTO & LO C AT ION: THE TREMONT HOUSE
PH OTO : J. CO GL IANDRO P HOTOGRAP HY // LOC ATION: HILTO N AM E R I C AS -HOUS TON
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space enough for everyone to enjoy.
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PH OTO : PH OTO GRAP HY BY S TEP HEN DAVID
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SITE SEARCHING FOR SOMETHING…DIFFERENT…FOR YOUR HOUSTON-AREA WEDDING? THESE NOTEWORTHY VENUES ARE UP TO THE TASK, WHETHER YOU CRAVE AN INTIMATE FOOD-FOCUSED FETE, AN AQUATIC WEDDING ADVENTURE, OR A ROYAL AFFAIR COMPLETE WITH HERALDING TRUMPETS!
LOCATION TEXAS RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
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FOODIE FESTIVITES
A delicious
option for both pre- and post-wedding events (sublime rehearsal dinners, elegant engagement parties, relaxed Sunday brunches), Ouisie’s Table is also a great spot for romantic weddings, either on the picture-perfect patio, or in one of the esteemed restaurant’s many distinct indoor party spaces. For an intimate, easygoing affair, say your “I do’s” outdoors in Bear’s Garden amidst overhanging trees and elegant columns, then meander over to adjacent Lucy’s Porch, for elevated Southern favorites served with a warm Ouisie’s welcome. Another enduring favorite with to-be-wed foodies, Brennan’s of Houston welcomes wedding couples and their guests into a glittering ballroom that conjures visions of a classic New Orleans carriage house, with vaulted ceilings, skylights and crystal chandeliers. Prior to your reception feast— picture fried green tomato ravigote, gulf fish Pontchartrain and Brennan’s famed turtle soup—seal the deal with an al fresco ceremony in Brennan’s charming courtyard.
U N D E R S E A A DV E N T U R E
An under-
water adventure awaits you and your wedding guests at Houston’s Downtown Aquarium, where the third-floor Nautilus Ballroom offers a private wraparound balcony, sweeping views of the Downtown skyline, and a cylindrical aquarium tank guests will marvel at as they enjoy cocktails in the ballroom’s foyer. With its full-service packages and specialized expertise in authentic international cuisine, the Downtown Aquarium blends elegance, convenience and a whole lot of fun in a unique 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland that’s unlike any other wedding venue in Houston.
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RENAISSANCE AFFAIRE The Texas Renaissance Festival—the
GOLF? You get all this, plus gourmet cuisine and superb service
nation’s largest renaissance theme park— gives new meaning
at Spring’s lovely Raveneaux Country Club. Plan a wedding
to the term “fairytale wedding.” Located in Todd Mission, a
weekend that includes a bit of time on the club’s 6,600-yard,
short hour’s drive from Houston, the Texas Renaissance Festival
par-71 course, host your relaxed rehearsal dinner in the aptly
has multiple garden and pavilion wedding spaces, each
named Windows private dining room, then say “I do” in the
with its own evocative 16th-century-English-village ambiance.
fabulous Grand Ballroom.
Whether you opt for fully themed nuptials (period costumes, attending festival characters, bagpipes, sword arch…), or
LIBRARY LUXURY If “Roaring ’20s” romance is your idea of the
just a touch of Renaissance
perfect wedding vibe, and you’ve
pomp and circumstance (horse-
got a soft spot for Houston history
drawn carriage arrival, flower
and ornate surroundings, the
crowns, trumpets), your Texas
circa-1926 Julia Ideson Library is
Renaissance Festival wedding will
an ideal spot for your city-sophis-
treat guests to a complete fantasy
ticate celebration. The library’s
experience, and an escape to
spaces include the Tudor Gallery,
another world.
ensconced in impressive marble pillars, and the Reading Room,
CLUB CLASS A massive crystal
with its one-of-a-kind exhibit room
chandelier and two-story stone fire-
showcasing the library’s esteemed
place, a large balcony and adjoin-
archival collection. Plus, the build-
ing outdoor terrace, floor-to-ceiling
ing’s distinctive Spanish-influenced
windows, and, just beyond those windows…resort-style championship
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exterior offers beautiful backdrops P HOTO & LOC ATI ON : THE D OWN TOWN AQUAR I U M
for treasured photos.
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02.24.18
MR.& MR S. //LAUREN & OREN//
COUPLE: Lauren Weingarten & Oren Marouni | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 290 I WEDDING COLORS: Taupe, Champagne, Charcoal & Black PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY: Ama By Aisha | VENUE: The Astorian | CATERER: Cordúa Catering WEDDING DRESS: Joan Pillow Bridal Salon | INVITATIONS & REGISTRY: Bering’s | REHEARSAL DINNER: Cadillac Bar BRIDAL LUNCHEON: Brennan’s Of Houston | HONEYMOON: Tanzania, Kenya & The Maldives CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Two Be Wed / Who Made The Cake / Flora & Eventi / Divisi Strings / Professor D / Unique Style Productions
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
dirty martini
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
vanilla cake with vanilla icing and rainbow sprinkles HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
trying new restaurants and exploring houston WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
we complement each other—i talk, he listens, i’m short, he’s tall
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
scotch on the rocks
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
black-and-white cookies HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
long walks around the city with lauren
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her ability to make everything fun
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As the only girl in a set of quadruplets, Lauren was surrounded by lots and lots of boys as she grew up. Oren was one of these. A baseball teammate of her brothers,’ he’d often come over to hang out on high-school afternoons… but instead of playing video games with the boys, he would sneak off to be with Lauren. Over time, their love blossomed, and at a Thanksgiving-morning family football game, Oren popped the question to Lauren right there on the field (but only after having flown to Boca Raton weeks before to ask Lauren’s father for his blessing). For their wedding at The Astorian, the couple had a cabaret-style ceremony setup, followed by cocktails, dancing, and food served from elegant mirrored stations, so that guests could “walk around, enjoy the venue and not feel confined to their seats,” Lauren says. “Our inspiration was to create a wedding that was unique, special and unlike anything we had seen before…and I think we nailed it 100 percent!”
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02.03.18
MR.& MR S. / / DA N I E L L E & M I C H A E L / /
COUPLE: Danielle Grudzinski & Michael Franklin I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 130 I WEDDING COLORS: White, Gray & Copper VENUE: Magnolia Hotel Houston I FLOWERS, DECOR & LIGHTING: Glenwood Weber Design I VIDEOGRAPHY: Reverent Wedding Films I HONEYMOON: Hawaii
PHOTOGRAPHY: Real Teel Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Who Made The Cake / Circle Park Boutique / Maybe Sew / The After Party
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
wine
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
key lime pie
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
enjoying a sunny day hiking with my husband and dogs
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his kind and selfless soul
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
whiskey and coke
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
red velvet cheesecake
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
riding dirt bikes
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her big, beautiful eyes
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It was love at first sight for Danielle and Michael, who got engaged in the most beautiful way—surrounded by family: “The proposal was on Father’s Day weekend. My parents said they had a present for me and asked me to close my eyes. They blindfolded me and led me to an outside garden. They removed the blindfold and I was blown away by what I saw. Standing at the end of a trail of beautiful red rose petals was the man of my dreams,” Danielle says “Being proposed to in front of the people I love the most made this day something I’ll always treasure.” The couple wed at downtown’s Magnolia Houston, surrounded by flowers, cherry blossoms and hanging votives from Glenwood Weber Design. Notes the bride, “My wedding was filled with mood lighting, my favorite music, and all the people I love.”
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*Greeking ot go here and here and greekignot og here and here #alateniteparty PH OTO : ASH L E Y RUDEL
// I N T H E //
C LUB F O R S H E E R E X C L U S I V I T Y, I T ’ S H A R D T O B E AT A C O U N T R Y C L U B O R C I T Y C L U B W E D D I N G . HERE ARE FIVE MORE GREAT REASONS TO HAVE YOUR WEDDING AT ONE OF HOUSTON’S ESTEEMED PRIVATE CLUBS, WHETHER YOU OPT FOR A CENTRALIZED CITY LOCATION WITH THE HOUSTON SKYLINE ON DAZZLING DISPLAY, OR A VAST EXPANSE OF ROLLING GREEN LAWN AS FAR AS THE EYE CAN SEE.
LOCATION RAVENEAUX COUNTRY CLUB
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PRIVACY At most Houston-area clubs,
your wedding will be the only event taking place on your big day. Which means you’ll enjoy the full focus of the club’s dedicated event staff, from the on-site coordinator to the servers who supply your guests with food and drink throughout the festivities. It also means neither you nor your guests will encounter other couples or groups during your wedding celebration—or the noise and commotion that might be associated with them.
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ACCESSIBILIT Y The vast majority of
Houston golf clubs, tennis clubs, country clubs and city clubs allow non-members to hold events on site, either through a relationship with an active member, or as part of their general services. So whether you and your family are legacy members of a club, are connected to a club member, or are simply seeking a club environment for your special day, chances are you’ll be able to get in, and get everything you need for your event.
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IN-HOUSE AMENTITIES Country
and city clubs are not just pretty places for celebrating—they are, in fact, designed and staffed specifically for special events. Most clubs have dedicated wedding staff on site, including day-of coordinators, and they can provide tables, chairs, linens, tableware, centerpieces, ceremony decor, dance floors, lighting and valet parking. Want to kick it up a notch? Ask your club coordinator about rental upgrades, preferred outside vendors and options for specialty desserts—they’ll be happy to do everything they can to make sure your wedding is everything you expect (and more) so you can relax and enjoy the festivities with your loved ones.
VENUE TIP : LEAV E IT TO T H E P RO S
Most clubs have dedicated wedding staff on site, including day-of coordinators. Ask your club coordinator about rental upgrades, preferred outside vendors and options for specialty desserts.
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FABULOUS FOOD Gourmet cuisine is
part of the full-service package at Houston-area clubs. Planning your club wedding will involve
a tasting appointment, where you’ll try different items, chat with your on-site coordinator and inhouse chef, and work with them to customize your ideal wedding menu. And, because clubs have state-of-the-art catering kitchens, a huge range of serving options and accoutrements, and experienced wait staff and bar staff, all at the ready, you’ll be ensured that everything will be perfectly prepared and served.
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VIEWS, VIEWS, VIEWS Whether you
select the pastoral pleasures of Raveneaux Country Club, Sweetwater Country Club, Willow Fork Country Club, Walden on Lake Houston Golf & Country Club, Pecan Grove Plantation Country Club or Pine Forest Country Club, or the urban sophistication of the Petroleum Club of Houston or the Houston Racquet Club, you will enjoy visual appeal. Get married on the green, say your vows lakeside, sip cocktails on the terrace at sunset or dance before a backdrop of Houston skyPHOTO: MD TURNER PHOTOGRAPHY // LOCATION: THE PETROLEUM CLUB OF HOUSTON
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line—it’s all possible when you’re “in the club!”
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10.21.17
MR.& MR S. / / H E AT H E R & J A S O N / /
COUPLE: Heather Trahan & Jason Sick I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 100 I WEDDING COLORS: Oxblood & Gold VENUE: The Gardens At Madeley Manor I PROPOSAL LOCATION: Texas Renaissance Festival HONEYMOON: Disney World PHOTOGRAPHY: Andrea Cauneac Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Calyx Flower Co. / Bakery & Cakes / Brickhouse Bridal / The Hometown Chef Catering Co. / Shannon Fine Jewelry
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
red wine
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
vanilla cupcakes with buttercream icing HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
a good morning workout and an evening with friends
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his kind heart and sense of humor—he makes me laugh every day
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
sweet tea
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
strawberry shortcake
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
dinner at a nice restaurant
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her zest for life
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When their two best friends started dating years ago, Heather and Jason became acquaintances by default. Love, over time, “just kind of blossomed from there,” Heather says. “Neither of us saw it coming, or would have ever predicted we would end up together, but we both feel very lucky.” Since both of them are Texas Renaissance Festival aficionados, the festival grounds seemed a natural choice for Jason’s lateafternoon marriage proposal: “It took me completely by surprise, but it was so sweet, and the happy tears just started flowing,” recalls Heather. The couple wed at Conroe’s Gardens of Madeley Manor, and despite the previous day’s worrisome rain, their wedding day was full of sunshine. “The venue was perfect,” says Heather. “We loved getting to have friends and family in one place all looking so fabulous.” And while having everyone gathered together to celebrate was a dream come true, “It was the few minutes alone we had here and there that stole my heart,” she adds.
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// RE-DO //
”
R E A L H O U S TO N B R I D E S T E L L W H AT T H E Y W O U L D D O D I F F E R E N T LY if they had their wedding to do over again…and what they’d never change.
WHAT SHE’D CHANGE: “If I had to change one thing about the wedding day, it would probably be spending more time with my fiancé and guests, and appreciating all of the hard work that went into the day. I really didn’t want to do a 'first look' because I wanted to have that special moment when I walked down the aisle. Looking back now, if we had done a first look we would’ve been able to do all family photos prior to the ceremony and we would’ve had more time between the ceremony and reception. We were pretty rushed with photos due to the ceremony time and sunset. I also wish that following the ceremony, I would’ve been able to walk into the reception room and see the tables, decor and the food stations, and had time to freshen up and make it to cocktail hour. Since we didn’t do a first look, immediately following our ceremony we did all of our photos outside while guests enjoyed cocktail hour. Once we were done, everyone was getting seated for the reception. We walked in the room, we did our dances and then sat down to eat. From there it was all a whirlwind, and by the end of the night I realized I didn’t get to see everything that I worked so hard to plan, and I didn’t get to spend as much quality time with my fiancé and guests as I would’ve if we had gotten some of the pictures done earlier in the day. Luckily we had an amazing photographer and videographer that captured the day perfectly, so I’m able to look back and reflect on those details I missed in person." WHAT SHE’D KEEP: “After the reception, when the room cleared out, Aaron and I had our last dance of the evening with just us in the room. Being alone PHOTOS: AMA BY AISHA
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on the dance floor gave us a moment to reflect on the night and soak it all in, and have an intimate moment to ourselves.”
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WHAT SHE’D CHANGE: “I think the one thing I would have done differently was to schedule more ‘unscheduled’ time. Having a destination wedding was the best decision we could have made, but I wish we would have enjoyed more of our time to explore the area, outside of our scheduled wedding activities. Everyone, including my husband and myself, arrived in Ravello three days before the wedding day. Knowing what I know now, I would have scheduled Wiley and myself to arrive at least two days before everyone else, and I would have spread out our vendor meetings, wedding meetings and wedding events over the week, instead of packing them into 72 hours.”
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”
WHAT SHE’D KEEP: “After a traditional Italian toast of Prosecco in the main square of Ravello, my husband and I led our family and friends to the reception villa through the cobblestoned village. We were followed by a mandolin player and a guitar player who played traditional Italian music all the way to the villa. It was…magical!” PHOTOS: TAYLOR GOLDEN PHOTOGRAPHY
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WHAT SHE’D CHANGE: “I would tell myself to have conviction with all the decisions we were making. Being able to take a step back and remember what the day is representing is important throughout the process. I had a lot of fun planning the wedding, but there were certainly some times when I felt stressed about a small decision, or pressured by vendors to make a choice, even when it didn’t feel right. It can make me uncomfortable to say no to people, but luckily my husband is both helpful with making decisions and with reassuring me. If I were to do it over again, I would make sure to tell
“
// RE-DO //
myself it is OK to say no, and go with my gut,
”
which would have helped me avoid feeling unnecessary guilt.” WHAT SHE’D KEEP: “I loved watching my husband, Matt, smash the glass at the end of the ceremony, and then lean in for our first kiss. It was also so much fun sharing the dance floor with all of our friends and family—we danced nonstop from the first PHOTOS: BRITT LATZ PHOTOGRAPHY
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song until the last. It was the best night of our lives so far!”
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*Greeking ot go here and here and greekignot og here and here #alateniteparty PHOT O: M E E KE R P I C T U RES
/ / V E R S AT I L E //
VE NUE S B R I N G T H E O U T S I D E I N . O R T H E I N S I D E O U T. T R A N S F O R M Y O U R C E R E M O N Y S P A C E F O R P O S T “ I D O ” PARTYING. RALLY SOME FOOD TRUCKS. SET OFF SOME FIREWORKS. SERVE UP A TASTE OF HOME… OR FETE YOUR GUESTS WITH A GLOBAL FEAST. IF YOU CAN DREAM IT, CHANCES ARE YOU CAN DO IT, AT ONE OF THESE SIX SUPER-VERSATILE WEDDING SITES!
WRITER NATASHA GARBER : LOCATION THE BALLROOM AT BAYOU PLACE
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LAS VELAS Set amidst courtyards full of blooming
bougainvillea, hibiscus and lush greenery, Las Velas evokes a stately Tuscan villa, where you can live out your most elaborate wedding fantasy. Here, ornate architecture encloses a grand interior accented with wrought-iron fixtures and hand-carved stonework. And because Las Velas provides in-house catering (with no food and beverage minimums) and allows couples to bring in the vendors of their choice for everything else, it’s not just a beautiful place to get married—it’s a very accommodating one.
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THE BOUGAINVILLEAS From the moment guests
arrive through the lush floral entranceway, they will find themselves enchanted by The Bougainvilleas—a full-service event venue featuring a range of celebration rooms, from the modern Grand Ballroom to the intimate Golden Ballroom, with its gilded Romanesque ambiance. And, because The Bougainvilleas understands the value of an all-in-one venue, where guests can venture seamlessly from ceremony to reception, it also offers a warm and gracious on-site chapel, where natural light pours in through large windows and illuminates the marriage ritual beautifully.
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PHOT O & L OC ATIO N : L A S V EL A S
THE BALLROOM AT BAYOU PLACE Known
simply as “The Ballroom,” this expansive contemporary event space located in downtown Houston’s Theater District boasts 15,000 square feet of contiguous event space, making it an ideal option for large weddings with an air of urban sophistication. The venue’s covered balcony allows for outdoor cocktails and mingling, with the furnishings and amenities of a swank indoor lounge, while its floor-to-ceiling windows, offering sweeping views of the city, give indoor events an expansive, airy feel. Take advantage of the expertise of the venue’s experienced event management and service staff, who are on hand to assist with everything from full event management to day-of coordination.
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HEATHER'S GLEN Full service means exactly that
at Heather’s Glen, which provides everything from floral design to in-house wedding cake preparation, food and beverage, rentals—even DJ services—all in a fairytale garden setting in charming Conroe. Select your choice from the venue’s numerous packages, designed to fit a range of budgets and event aspirations, many offering the option of customization and additions such as extra hours, linen upgrades, beverage fountains and more. Heather’s Glen even P HOT O: AM M AR S EL O / / L O C AT IO N : T H E B O U G A IN VI LLEAS
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offers elopement packages, complete with ceremony officiating, music and romantic candlelight.
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PH OTO : TO M A S RA M O S / / LO C ATI ON : L A S V EL AS
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THE MEEKERMARK Designed by Christine and Mark
Meeker, a team of award-winning wedding photographers with more than two decades of milestone-celebration experience, The Meekermark is tailor-made for weddings that require tons of flexibility and acres of natural splendor to enjoy. The venue’s main building is a masterfully restored barn, originally built in Canada nearly 200 years ago out of hand-carved ancient hemlock timbers, and re-erected on 12 picturesque acres in Magnolia. Eager to put your mark on the Houston-area wedding scene? Celebrate your nuptials at the at the picturesque Meekermark, newly opened this past spring and already hosting vintage-modern, rusticelegant weddings!
VENUE TIP : TOUR ON LI NE Visit weddingsinhouston.com as you plan, to search and compare venues by details such as outdoor space, capacity, price and catering options. Register for access to planning tools, special offers and event information. P H OTO: JESSI C A P LED G ER // LOC ATI ON: H EATHE R'S GLE N
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EASY
E legance LOUNGE AND LIVE IT UP IN LUXURY AT THESE FINE SITES FOR RELAXED WEDDING REVELRY.
WRITER NATASHA GARBER LOCATION EAGLE DANCER RANCH BOUQUET BLOOMS DESIGN STUDIO
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THE GRAND HALL AT DEER L AKE LODGE New to acclaimed Montgomery-
area health resort and holistic spa Deer Lake Lodge, the Grand Hall offers indoor and outdoor space for 200 celebrants, including an utterly charming patio and vintage-chic wood ballroom, plus cleansing and detox packages, massage and professional beauty services through the lodge’s award-winning spa—an oasis of tranquility.
2
THE GARDENS AT MADELEY MANOR
You’ll find impeccably manicured grounds, statuesque
Corinthian
columns,
elegant
French doors, and—new for 2018—a glass-walled conservatory, at The Gardens at Madeley Manor, a beautifully restored 1930s estate in verdant Conroe.
3
HUGHES MANOR Tucked in a sweet
retreat in Houston’s historic Washington Heights neighborhood, Hughes Manor offers a lovely lawn that can be outfitted with string lights, ghost chairs and lounge furniture for ceremonies and cocktails, along with a hip industrial-chic indoor space for dining and dancing beneath impressive “Foucault’s Orb” chandeliers.
4
PLANTATION ON THE BAY Located
on the northern shore of Galveston Bay, this relaxed waterfront wedding venue and bed-and-breakfast features a landscape dotted with lush, mature trees, and graced with scenic bay views. The gazebo is the preferred spot for outdoor ceremonies, while the indoor 300-capacity Celebration Center offers a “blank-slate” space that you can decorate however you choose for your big-day bash.
5
ASHTON GARDENS With locations in
North and West Houston, Ashton Gardens beckons couples with its glass-enclosed chapel, classic ballroom, courtyard fountains, lush greenery—and a variety of all-inclusive packages that allow wedding couple and guests alike to relax completely before and during the big day. 110 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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THE PARADOR This Texas historical landmark build-
ing’s eye-catching Mediterranean architecture, with its aura of grandeur and mystery, gives way to a graceful interior—complete with a 35-foot-high dome ceiling that lets in a wash of natural light—and, outside, tranquil brickpath gardens, perfect for al-fresco “I do’s.”
7
THE VILLAGIO Full-service packages (including in-
house floral and decor), catering flexibility and free parking are just three of the things that make The Villagio an ideal place to plan and enjoy a relaxed and fun-filled wedding—the enchanting Rose Garden, intimate indoor Chapel and state-of-the-art Ballroom are three more.
8
WATERS EDGE VENUE At the shores of Clear Lake,
Waters Edge Venue sits on two and a half picturesque acres, which include a 2,500-square-foot patio where guests can sip cocktails beside the crackling fire pit, and a 5,000-squarefoot ballroom where celebrants can dine and dance amidst contemporary surroundings with Art Deco flair.
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THE GALLERY Mediterranean-inspired architecture
and breezy terraces make this Galleria-area enclave feel like it’s a million miles outside the city—while an expansive reception room, a cozy upstairs bar area, and plush, private suites for both the bride and groom make it a uniquely accommodating space for a stress-free and simply lovely wedding.
10
KEMAH GARDENS Equidistant from Houston and
Galveston, and a stone’s throw from the delightful Kemah Boardwalk, Kemah Gardens is the perfect place for easygoing sunset “I do’s” beneath a vintage lakeside arbor, followed by relaxed celebrating in a comfortable, climate-controlled pavilion.
{
Visit us for more fabulous destinations @ WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM
}
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MR.& MR S. //ERIN & BRAD //
COUPLE: Erin Ellis & Brad Lockwood I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 275 I WEDDING COLORS: Black & White VENUE: Hotel ZaZa Museum District | COORDINATOR & STYLIST: Grayhouse Events Atelier | BRIDAL LUNCH: Ouisie’s Table WEDDING DRESS: Joan Pillow Bridal Salon | CAKE: Susie’s Cakes & Confections I HONEYMOON: Cabo San Lucas
PHOTOGRAPHY: Composure Studios CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: The Secret Floral Garden / 1111 Studewood / DGZ Invitations / Uptown Diamonds / Empire 6
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
vodka tonic with extra lime HER FAVORITE SWEET:
apple pie
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
walking in our neighborhood followed by brunch with friends WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he truly loves me unconditionally
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
frozen margarita with a sugared rim HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
chocolate meringue pie
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
playing basketball, then hanging out by the pool WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
everything with her is better
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Though their original meeting place may have been simple (work), and their proposal may have been simple (at home, with candles and roses), Erin and Brad’s wedding was anything but. Orchestrated by coordinator and stylist Jim Gray of Grayhouse Events Atelier, the couple’s celebration, at the Museum District’s chic Hotel ZaZa, was a dream come true. Classic, with a modern twist, Erin and Brad’s wedding keyed on a sophisticated black-and-white color scheme, with pops of greenery throughout the lavish floral arrangements. And while their wedding was packed with friends, family and revelry— “We both have friends from different stages of life that flew in from all over the world to celebrate with us and our families,” bride Erin says—the couple still found time for intimate moments. “I loved when Jim took just the two of us into the ballroom before the reception, and I also loved taking photos with Brad at the top of Hotel ZaZa during the cocktail hour,” the bride recounts. She adds: “Everyone says that on the big day something will go wrong, but you just go with it. The crazy thing is that I don’t feel like anything went wrong!”
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BRI D E S // & THEIR TRIBES //
”
R E A L H O U S TO N B R I D E S T E L L H O W T H E Y P R O P O S E D and how they showed their eternal devotion...to their bridesmaids! HOW SHE ASKED: “I sent them each a handwritten letter in the mail that said, ‘They say I'll need someone to hold my dress when I pee!’ and on the inside it had a date and time to meet at Tiny Boxwoods one Sunday for brunch. The restaurant is very near and dear to all of our hearts. It was a place where we would go for girly Saturday or Sunday brunches—just a cute little place to chit-chat, and drink mimosas, and hang out with girlfriends. Once we were there, I gave them their ‘Will you be my...’ gift—a cute little box with a few pictures of me and each girl in it, with fun hair ties that were in my wedding colors, two nail polishes that I knew each girl would love, and a small bottle of her favorite spirit. They all loved it and thought that each box was perfectly personalized for each one of them.” HOW THEY CELEBRATED: “Two of my four bridesmaids were pregnant and would be with their newborns by the time my actual bachelorette party rolled around. So a few months before my bachelorette party, my bridesmaids planned a weekend away for us in Galveston. It was me, my bridesmaids, and a few other best friends of mine that were in the bridal party. We had a calm night in and crazy, fun night out. We spent time lying by the pool and soaking up the sun—just a girls’ weekend away before a few of us were moms and I was married. It was also Cinco de Mayo weekend, so it PHOTO: MORGAN BROOKS PRODUCTIONS
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was ‘fiesta’ themed…it was a blast!”
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HOW SHE ASKED: “For each bridesmaid, I created a little box that had a card taped to the top. On the outside of the card, I wrote, ‘Pop the bubbly... I'm getting a hubby!’ The card had rose-gold lettering that said, ‘Will you be my bridesmaid?’ and on the inside of the card, I wrote a personalized message explaining why my bridesmaid was so special to me and why I wanted her there on my big day. On the inside of the box, there was a personalized stemless Champagne flute, Champagne-flavored gummy bears, and a tiny bottle of Champagne, surrounded by pink and iridescent plastic filling. Our colors included gold and blush, so I wanted to make sure those colors were incorporated into the gift I gave my bridesmaids. I was still in school at the time I asked my bridesmaids to be a part of our big day, so I took each of them to dinner to ask them. PHOTO: EVOKE PHOTOGRAPHY
Sometimes I took one, sometimes two, it just depended on scheduling. One of my bridesmaids lived in Minot, N.D., so I shipped hers! I didn't want distance to be the reason she didn't get a special box. Their reactions were all super positive. They all caught on to the wedding colors right away, which was so much fun. I know my bridesmaid in Minot really appreciated that I shipped her box, so that she got to have the same invitation as everyone else.” HOW THEY CELEBRATED: “To thank my bridesmaids and house party, I organized a tea party at the Hummingbird Tea Room & Bakery in Magnolia. It was amazing! Everyone absolutely loved the Hummingbird—it was affordable, classy, and the food and tea were so delicious. It was the morning before the rehearsal so it was a great opportunity to say thank you to my bridesmaids, and for everyone to catch up before the wedding festivities truly began. This is when I gave my bridesmaids their earrings for the wedding day. We always talk now about how we need to go back there for tea!”
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//WEDDING SOIREE//
PHOTOS: CIVIC PHOTOS
ADAM NYHOLT, PHOTOGRAPHER
DECOR: SWIFT + COMPANY LOCATION: CORINTHIAN HOUSTON
AMA BY AISHA
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ARMANDOS CATERS
SUSIE'S CAKES & CONFECTIONS
CORDÚA CATERING
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JO IN US AT O UR NEX T I DO S O IR EE: FAL L 2 01 8!
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PLANTS N' PETALS
OH SNAP! PHOTO BOOTH
BOYD BRYAN CORINTHIAN HOUSTON
“ AN
Affair TO REMEMBER”
CORINTHIAN HOUSTON 2.8.2018
//
Our signature event, The I Do! Wedding Soiree at Corinthian Houston, offered Houston couples a night of curated luxury and relaxed, inspiring wedding planning, including the best decorators, planners, caterers, bridal salons, photography and cinematography in Houston. We thank our event partners for their fabulous contributions: Corinthian Houston, Civic Photos, Cordúa Catering, Jackson & Company, Armandos, Café Natalie, LG Event Entertainment & Production, LBL Event Rentals, Scott Graham Piano, and Ama by Aisha. We also thank YOU for attending! We invite you to browse our talented exhibitors and visit us online for tickets and info: HOUSTONWEDDINGSHOWS.COM KRYSTAL NICOLE BRIDAL COUTURE
HOUSTON BRIDAL GALLERY
SCOTT GRAHAM PIANO
A DAY TO REMEMBER
PARVANI VIDA
CORINTHIAN HOUSTON
EDIBLE DESIGNS
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60
// ESCAPE UNDER //
F O R G E T PA S S P O R T S , P L A N E FA R E S A N D C O M P L I C A T E D T R A V E L L O G I S T I C S … THESE SIX VENUES OFFER A FULL DESTINATION WEDDING EXPERIENCE, JUST A SHORT DRIVE AWAY FROM DOWNTOWN HOUSTON.
WRITER NATASHA GARBER PHOTO ERI FOR TAYLOR GOLDEN LOCATION BRISCOE MANOR
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BARTOP I TEMS: BER I NG 'S // BOUTONNI ER E: D R EAM BOUQUET // D ESIGN : A DAY TO RE ME MB E R
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1 BRISCOE MANOR SAY I DO: Nestled among pecan and oak trees on a serene 50-acre estate whose history dates back to the early 19th century, Richmond’s Briscoe Manor welcomes couples to say their vows in a stately limestone chapel (the photo ops are out of this world!), and invites celebrants to take full advantage of the property’s magnificent modern ballroom, featuring soaring ceilings, exposed wood beams and glittering crystal chandeliers. SIDE TRIP: Take your visiting guests on a day trip through Texas history at Richmond’s George Ranch Historical Park—a 20,000acre working ranch that traces its heritage back to the 1830s, and offers fun-for-all activities like traditional chuckwagon lunches, cattle demonstrations and campfires.
PH OT O: AG AP E HOU S E S T U D IO
2
THE LYCEUM SAY I DO: Galveston’s Lyceum is more
than just a beautiful venue for your Gulf Coast destination nuptials—it’s a bona-fide historic treasure, dating back to the 1850s, and featuring a dramatic steeple, soaring stained-glass windows and grand double doors, along with a charming courtyard for outdoor celebrating. SIDE TRIP: Getting hitched in Galveston? Round out your Lyceum wedding with yet another trip back in time, by arranging an intimate guided tour to one or more of the island’s revered historic homes—a once-in-a-lifetime experience for visiting guests, which can be readily organized through the Galveston Historical Foundation.
P H OTO: SAR AH AI NSWORTH P H OTO: SAR AH AI NSWORTH
3 THE MANOR HOUSE OF RICHMOND SAY I DO: Built in 1938 by a prosperous Texas banker for his bride (aww), The Manor House of Richmond is more than a graceful antebellum mansion and sprawling estate—it’s a true destination wedding setting, complete with lush gardens, hundred-year-old oak trees, and a luxurious bridal suite with its own (gasp!) private pool. SIDE TRIP: Heading out to Richmond for your nuptials? Have your wedding party stay nearby, and have your rehearsal-dinner gathering at Richmond’s Braman Winery & Brewery, where y’all can sample local wines, craft brews and, weather permitting, live PH OT O: KAR I E M AR IE P H O T O G RA P H Y
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music on the outdoor stage…in between heartfelt toasts, of course!
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SANDLEWOOD MANOR SAY I DO: While those at-
tending your wedding at Sandlewood Manor—a stunning antebellum mansion inspired by Louisiana’s famed Nottoway Plantation— will feel like they’ve been completely transported to another time and place, they’ll actually be in Tomball’s newest event venue, strolling endless balconies, sipping cocktails by the outdoor fire pit, and, if they’re especially honored guests, staying a night or two in one of the mansion’s three lavishly appointed suites. SIDE TRIP: While you’re up in the northern neck of the woods, schedule a group outing to Old Town Spring, home of the Texas Crawfish & Music Festival every April, and a year-round visitors’ favorite. You and your crew can stroll quaint streets filled with charming boutiques, gift and antique shops, and eateries! P HOT O: KE L L LY HO RN B ERG ER
5
MOFFITT OAKS SAY I DO: Set on 47 sprawling
acres in Tomball, Moffitt Oaks boasts a variety of outdoor and indoor ceremony and reception spaces, from the picturesque Lakeside Arbor, to the charming Cantina, with its traditional Texas architecture, to the rustic-chic Barn, which blends the gleam of hardwood with the sparkle of crystal chandeliers. SIDE TRIP: On the evening before your wedding, take time to unwind at Main Street Crossing, a unique live-music venue and restaurant in downtown Tomball.
P H OTO: SAR AH AI NSWORTH
6 15 ACRES SAY I DO: The brainchild of a mother-daughter team with a combined 25 years of event-planning experience, Hockley’s brand-new 15 Acres brings the destination wedding experience conveniently close to Houston proper, with sprawling lawns, an expansive covered patio, a pastoral pond and a contemporary blank-slate ballroom that you can fill with just about any wedding fantasyscape imaginable. SIDE TRIP: Thirsty for maximum R&R at your 15 Acres weekend wedding? Plan your nuptials for Sunday (you’ll have more date options and save a few dollars on facility rental), and save Saturday for a group visit to nearby Magnolia’s Lone Pint Brewery, for frosty mugs of famed Yellow Rose IPA, brewery tours and kick-back gourmet eats from visiting food trucks. P HOT O: DR E AM PH O T O & V ID EO
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W E'R E
Outta HERE
GOT A HANKERING TO HEAD OUT OF HOUSTON? THESE DESTINATION WEDDING PROPERTIES OFFER UP A RANGE OF ACCOMMODATING OPTIONS.
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PHOTO & LO C ATIO N: ROYA LTO N BAVARO, DOMINIC AN REPUBLIC
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TEXAS HILL COUNTRY EAGLE DANCER RANCH Rolling green hills, towering oak trees and
setting with an outdoor riverside ceremony, or welcome your
crystal-clear streams surround wedding couples and their guests at
guests indoors for “I do,” to Chapel Hall, where gleaming wood
Boerne’s beautiful Eagle Dancer Ranch. Experience outdoor “I do’s”
surfaces give way to stained-glass windows and hand-forged iron
in the ranch’s picturesque courtyard, where covered pavilions hung
decor accents. When it’s time to party, treat guests to a couple
with iron chandeliers offer rustic romance, beside a landscaped creek
of cold ones, offered up by basket-outfitted miniature donkeys
crossed by charming bridges—perfect for wedding photo ops. Inside
bedecked in fresh flowers, followed by dining and dancing in
the ranch’s circa-1874 historic barn, you’ll dine and dance beneath
the completely transformed Chapel Hall. Weather permitting,
European crystal chandeliers suspended from 40-foot-high ceilings,
your guests can gather on the picturesque stone patio, to enjoy
while state-of-the-art climate controls keep you and party comfortable
fireside cocktails amidst oak trees hung with crystal chandeliers.
any season of the year. You’ll enjoy your Hill Country festivities even
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
more knowing that all of the ranch’s
ROYALTON BAVARO RESORT &
water features use rain harvested
SPA
from the property’s rooftops, while
newest all-inclusive resort, Royal-
all of the lights illuminating your
ton Bavaro, is everything a tropi-
celebration are energy-saving LEDs.
cal destination wedding or hon-
The
Dominican
Republic’s
eymoon should be. Just south of KING RIVER RANCH On the banks
Punta Cana, Bavaro boasts one
of the Pedernales River, just outside
of the world’s best beaches, with
of Fredericksburg, King River Ranch
white-sugar sands, towering palms,
offers 3,000 square feet of customdesigned event space, including the
and sparkling aquamarine water.
LO CAT IO N: OL D GL ORY R AN CH
Although family friendly, Royalton
PHOTO: EILTS PHOTOGRAPHY
open-air River Terrace, built directly
Bavaro’s luxe layout, with all-in
into the river’s dramatic rocky bank,
luxury amenities, ensures a five-star
and the rustic-elegant King Barn,
experience for adults and couples
nestled between an idyllic fishing
seeking relaxation and romance.
pond and expansive horse pasture.
With several ceremony and recep-
Because
tion sites to choose from, including
King
understands
the
River
Ranch of
two beachfront cabanas, a garden
planning a destination wedding,
chapel, and the rooftop Sky Wed-
they include everything you need in
ding Terrace, Royalton Bavaro’s ex-
their venue rental fee—tables and
perienced on-site wedding planners
chairs,
can help you choose a favorite loca-
on-site
challenges
event
manager,
engineering staff, free parking… even an on-site hair and makeup studio! And because they understand
tion and plan a flawless destination
LO CAT IO N : E AGL E DAN CE R R AN CH
ceremony and reception for you
PHOTO: SNAP CHIC PHOTOGRAPHY
and your guests. The Royalton Ba-
the need for “wow” at your Hill Country wedding, they offer the floral and decor services of in-house design firm Willem-Aidan, an award-winning design studio whose former clients include Audi, Cadillac and the Screen Actors’ Guild Awards.
varo staff is courteous, professional and warm, ensuring you feel well taken care of during your stay. Diamond Club upgrades are readily available and reasonably priced, including access to the exclusive Diamond Club Lounge, the Diamond Club private pool with swim-up bar, cabanas on a secluded beach, and personalized butler service. Royalton Bavaro’s
OLD GLORY RANCH Located in historic Wimberley, in the gently
modern and well-appointed suites feature specialty handcrafted
rolling Hill Country between Austin and San Antonio, Old Glory
Dream Beds, swim-up terraces, and balconies with gorgeous views,
Ranch is a 2,200-acre property set on the leafy banks of the
along with relaxing jetted soaking tubs, waterfall showers and
emerald-green Blanco River. Take full advantage of the venue’s
24-hour room service.
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To detoxify and de-stress, enjoy a relaxing beachfront yoga session, followed by a few hours at the gorgeous Royalton Spa & Salon, with its serene relaxation rooms, hydrotherapy pools, massage and facial treatments, and sauna and steam rooms. Daytime beach activities such as stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, boogie boarding, snorkeling, and sandbar excursions by Nexus Tours, let you soak up the beauty of the Caribbean. Poolside, grab a Cuban sandwich at one of the resort’s casual dining grills, enjoy a cocktail as you float the 1,200-foot Lazy River, or hone your surfing skills on the FlowRider. After enjoying a gorgeous sunset, sip cocktails under the stars at one of several poolside bars or lounges, or relax at one of the resort’s specialty bars (the Martini Mix is a guest fave). Royalton Bavaro boasts world-class dining experiences with offerings including Italian, Brazilian, American and Tappanyaki fare, so there’s always something new to try. In the Caribbean, nightlife is king, so grab your guests and head into town for the lively nightclub scene, or take in a live performance at the resort, while you savor the PH O T O & L O C AT I O N: RO YA LT O N BAVA RO SPA & SA L O N
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incomparable feeling of newlywed bliss.
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01.20.17
MR.& MR S. / / C H R I S TA & K E V I N / /
COUPLE: Christa Gonzales & Kevin O’Hara I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 200 I WEDDING COLORS: Copper, Slate, Blue & Black VENUE: The Astorian I CATERER: Cordúa Catering I WEDDING DRESS: Joan Pillow Bridal Salon I HONEYMOON: Hawaii PHOTOGRAPHY: Brandon O’Neal Wedding Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Piper & Muse / Sugary & Chic Cake Boutique / Darryl & Co. / Johanna Terry Event / House of Hough I Heart Flipbooks / Unique Style Productions / In10City Band
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
coconut mojito
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
macarons by patisse
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
picnicking at the menil, complete with lunch and wine
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he has the most infectious smile and laugh
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
budweiser
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
blueberry pie or kit kats
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
watching university of miami football
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her personality
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When you meet by chance at a rooftop bar in South Carolina, and you can’t take your eyes off each other, and you discover that not only are you both from Houston, but you’re both booked on the same flight home, well…you may want to chalk it up to fate. Christa and Kevin did, and it led them directly to the altar less than three years later, for a magnificent wedding at The Astorian. As Christa, a former professional wedding photographer notes, “Kev and I both really connect to the 1930s and 1940s eras, and we both have ties to Manhattan, so The Astorian”— with its “dark, sultry ambiance” and “touch of glamour”—was “the perfect background for our wedding.” The bride notes that her rose-gold engagement ring inspired the copper accents in her wedding color scheme, while her background as a classically trained musician inspired her bridal processional music: “Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy. She adds: “Instead of holding bouquets, each of our daughters held a candle for the parents that we wished could be with us.”
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SOUTH
VIRGIL BUNAO KELLI CORN EVENTS
PHOTOS 2-5: CLAY AUSTIN // KELLI CORN EVENTS
AS ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S SOUTHERNMOST CITIES, HOUSTON’S CULTURE IS AS SOUTHERN AS IT IS TEXAN . A N D H O U S TO N TO - B E - W E D S , A LO N G W I T H T H E I R FA M I L I E S , H AV E A N A F F I N I T Y F O R T H E G R AC I O U S H O S P I TA L I T Y, REL AXED LUXURY AND FABULOUS FOOD AND DRINK THE SOUTH IS KN OWN FOR. THESE THREE DIS TIN GUISHED S O U T H E R N D E S T I N AT I O N P R O P E R T I E S W E LC O M E H O U S TO N C O U P L E S A N D T H E I R LO V E D O N E S TO S I P, D I N E , DA N C E A N D SAY, “ I D O ,” S U R RO U N D E D BY R E GA L D E CO R , LU S H L A N D S C A P E S A N D I CO N I C S O U T H E R N S C E N E S .
LOC ATI ON MONTAG E PALM ETTO BLUFF
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| WEDDING PLANNING
:
DESTINATION WEDDINGS |
SWEET SPOT S of the
SOUTH
PHOTO & LOCATION: MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF
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DESTINATION WEDDINGS |
No. 1 MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF
A classic country-chapel
ceremony and total-escape resort celebration all in one? You can have your wedding cake and eat it, too, at the Montage Palmetto Bluff, located in the lush Lowcountry of South Carolina. Jack Nicklaus signature golf, sport shooting, yachting, equestrian activities and strolling through the extraordinary Palmetto Bluff Conservancy, are just a few of the innumerable things you and your guests can do at the Montage. But don’t tucker yourself out, to-be-wed. You’ll want to save energy for your “I do’s” in the picture-perfect May River Chapel, or the grand Somerset Chapel—both offering gorgeous views, and streams of South Carolina sunlight. For the ultimate in reception space, the 350-capacity Wilson Ballroom, named for the Wilson family—previous owners of Palmetto Bluff, and hosts of its most extravagant parties—features lavish interiors and romantic views of the property’s Grand Lawn. Smaller destination-wedding groups may gather in the cozy Wine Cellar, nautical-theme Canoe Club, in a tent on the historic Village Green, or in one of the many intimate indoor or outdoor venues at this undeniably Southern riverfront enclave. PHOTO: VIRGIL BUNAO // LOCATION: MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF
No. 2 NOPSI HOTEL NEW ORLEANS Salamander Hotels’ NOLA property takes its name from the building’s history as the city’s former public utility and streetcar operator—but there’s nothing utilitarian about this fabulous New Orleans hotel. From the polished Jazz Age splendor of the magnificent NOPSI lobby, to the refined furnishings and decadent comfort of its 217 guest rooms and suites, this Central Business District beauty—located a short walk from the action of Bourbon Street—is a destination wedding dream come true. Your NOPSI weekend wedding might start with welcome cocktails (and outstanding city views) at Above The Grid, the hotel’s rooftop pool deck and bar. Guests may freely roam the nearby Arts District and famed French Quarter, or savor cocktails and classic Cajun and Creole dishes at Galatoire’s, Arnaud’s or one of the city’s ever-emerging dining hotspots. On the big day itself, the truly one-of-a-kind Dryades Ballroom will welcome you and your guests, with massive arched windows, exposed brick walls and a soaring 30-foot-high ceiling, accented with sparkling crystal chandeliers. For a private moment amidst your NOLA-style celebration, steal away to the respite of NOPSI’s charming Courtyard Patio, for an intimate kiss as newlyweds.
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PHOTO & LOCATION: NOPSI HOTEL NEW ORLEANS
| WEDDING PLANNING
:
DESTINATION WEDDINGS |
SWEET SPOT S of the
SOUTH
PHOTO: MICHAEL K PHOTOGRAPHY // LOCATION: THE HENDERSON BEACH RESORT & SPA
PHOTO: OLIVIA LOTT
PHOTO: MICHAEL K
PHOTO: OLIVIA LOTT
No. 3 T H E H E N D E R S O N B E AC H R E S O R T & S PA Just a short flight from Houston lies a luxury seaside resort, where the classic elegance of decades past meets today’s modern conveniences and event design talent. We’re talking about The Henderson, located in the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast beach town of Destin, known for sugar-sand beaches and emerald gulf waters. Though a mere two years old, this stately luxury hotel has a comfortable, lived-in, Southern vibe, and feels like a home-awayfrom-home. Weddings at The Henderson are a true destination-celebration experience, where guests can lounge poolside, indulge in treatments at the property’s Salamander Spa (named for the Salamander Hotels group,
which includes The Henderson), or cast their line in the pristine waters of the town widely known as “the world’s luckiest fishing village.” When it’s time to head down the aisle, couples can select their ceremony site from 10,000 square feet of event space, with stunning Gulf Coast views as their backdrop. Destination-wedding guests, honeymooners and bridal groups alike also can try out YOLO stand-up paddle-boarding, a helicopter tour of the Emerald Coast, and a visit to acclaimed Emeril’s Coastal Italian restaurant. The Henderson’s warm Southern hospitality, fabulous fresh cuisine, and incredible staff, make this a must-visit destination for dreamy weddings and pre-wedding spa getaways.
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|
REAL WEDDINGS
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02.18.18
MR.& MR S. / / W E N DY & J O H N / /
COUPLE: Wendy Hernandez & John Galloway I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 200 I WEDDING COLORS: White, Blush & Gold VENUE: Waters Edge I CAKE: Susie’s Cakes & Confections ENTERTAINMENT, LIGHTING & SOUND: LG Event Entertainment & Production I HONEYMOON: Dominican Republic
PHOTOGRAPHY: D Trinh Photography / CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Picture This Photography / Greenwalt Productions / A La Carte Events & Catering / HEB Florist
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REAL WEDDINGS
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
dr pepper or white wine HER FAVORITE SWEET:
sugar cookies
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
with my family, soaking up the sun, and bonding with my nieces and nephew WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he can always keep me laughing and smiling no matter what mood i am in
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
michelob ultra
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
banana pudding
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
with my wife and friends, soaking up the sun while bike riding WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
she’s funny, and always makes me smile
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REAL WEDDINGS
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Former Houston Dynamo dancer Wendy met her future husband during a friend’s downtown Houston birthday celebration. “He asked me to dance, and our love story started,” she says. John’s flash-mob proposal, joined in by family and friends bearing koozies and gifts for the couple, became a viral YouTube video, with more than 1.2 million views, and was featured on Houston news channels, along with CNN and ABC’s “Good Morning America.” Their lakefront wedding at Waters Edge Venue, had its share of dancing as well, with Wendy’s friends, all former professional cheerleaders and dancers themselves, besting the guys in a dance competition. But her absolute favorite moment, Wendy says, was “walking down the aisle next to my dad, listening to my favorite song, ‘Great Thou Art,’ by Carrie Underwood, and seeing my husband's face. He was smiling from ear to ear.”
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| WEDDING PLANNING
:
REHEARSAL DINNERS |
// R E C E P T I O N & R E H E A R S A L / /
LOCATIONS 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 ? F I N D T H E R E H E A R S A L O R WEDDING VENUE THAT WILL ACCOMMODATE YOUR GUEST COUNT, PROVIDE THE SERVICES YOU NEED, FIT YOUR BUDGET AND FULFILL YOUR FANTASY. COMPARE HOUSTON WEDDING AND REHEARSAL DINNER VENUE DETAILS AT A GLANCE, HERE AND ON WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM.
PHOTO ADAM NYHOLT, PHOTOGRAPHER LOCATION THE HOUSTONIAN HOTEL, CLUB & SPA // DECOR: TODD EVENTS
// REHEARSAL DINNERS // Armandos
Américas
2630 Westheimer • Houston, TX 77098 713.520.1738 • ArmandosCaters.com
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.
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
Events at a Time
3
Private Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment Y
Max. Guests
75
Outdoor Site
Y
Min. Price Call
Y
Events at a Time
2
Private Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment Y
Max. Guests
36
Outdoor Site
The Barn at Briscoe Manor
3300 Smith St • Houston, TX 77006 713.522.9711 • BrennansHouston.com
Designed to appeal to rehearsal dinners/lunches, The Barn, located on Briscoe Manor's 50 acre estate, offers the same award winning and sought after elegant perfection that Briscoe Manor has had immense success with. After your rehearsal in the unparalleled Briscoe Chapel, walk on over to The Barn for your rehearsal lunch or dinner. Your convenient and stress-free wedding day starts here! 1
Private Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment Y
Max. Guests
100
Y
Outdoor Site
Y
Min. Price $24
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 Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment Y
Max. Guests
200
2
Private Bar Service
Y
Entertainment Y
Max. Guests
400
Outdoor Site
Y Min. Price $12
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.
Events at a Time
3
Private Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment Y
Max. Guests
Y
110
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. 4
Private Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment Y
Max. Guests
120
Outdoor Site
Y
Y
Min. Price Call
Outdoor Site
Y
Y
Min. Price $49
DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Greenway Plaza
Churrascos
3300 S. Gessner Rd, Ste 270 • Houston, TX 77063 844.346.4365 • Churrascos.com
Events at a Time
Y
Min. Price $60
5865 Westheimer Rd • Houston, TX 77057 713.244.9500 • ChamaGaucha.com
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.
Private Rooms
Outdoor Site
Y
Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse
Cadillac Bar 1802 Shepherd Dr • Houston, TX 77007 713.862.2020 • CadillacBar.com
Events at a Time
N
Min. Price Call
Brennan’s of Houston
5801 FM 723 • Richmond, TX 77406 281.238.4700 • BriscoeManor.com
Events at a Time
Y
6 E. Greenway Plaza • Houston, TX 77046 713.850.2305 • DoubleTree3.hilton.com
©2016 gina schild photography
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.
Events at a Time
2
Private Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment Y
Max. Guests
100
Outdoor Site
Y
Y
Min. Price $35
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| WEDDING PLANNING
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REHEARSAL DINNERS |
Hilton Americas - Houston
The Hines Center
500 Fannin St Suite 100 • Houston, TX 77002 713.590.3302 • HinesCenter.org
1600 Lamar St • Houston, TX 77010 713.739.8000 • AmericasHouston.Hilton.com We are able to 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, and your out-of-town guests can effortlessly book accommodations through our website. Events at a Time
10
Private Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment N
Max. Guests
130
Outdoor Site
Y
Min. Price $110
N
©2016 gina schild photography
Events at a Time
1
Private Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment N
Max. Guests
80
Outdoor Site
Private Rooms Max. Guests
6 Y 450
Private Rooms Max. Guests
1 N 130
2450 Louisiana St • Houston, TX 77006 713.524.0004 • IbizaFoodAndWineBar.com
The Houstonian Hotel offers brides 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.
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.
Private Bar Service
Y
Entertainment Y Outdoor Site
Min. Price 85
©2016 gina schild photography le zu photography
Events at a Time
1
Private Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment Y
Max. Guests
Y
110
Y
Outdoor Site
Min. Price Call
Lawless Spirits & Kitchen
McCormick & Schmick's 1151-01 Uptown Park Blvd • Houston, TX 77056 713.840.7900• MccormickAndSchmicks.com 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.
Private Bar Service
Y
Entertainment N Outdoor Site
Min. Price $20
Y
Events at a Time
2
Private Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment Y
Max. Guests
120
Sambuca
©2016 gina schild photography his and hers foto
Events at a Time
2
Private Bar Service
Y
Entertainment Y Outdoor Site
Y
Y
Min. Price Call
Min. Price $53
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.
Events at a Time
1
Private Bar Service
Private Rooms
Y
Entertainment N
Max. Guests
All information is subject to change without notice. Some features may be available on a limited, seasonal or by-request-only basis.
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Y
Waters Edge
©2016 gina schild photography
Private Rooms
Outdoor Site
Y
3901 NASA Parkway • El Lago, TX 77586 281.291.9900 • WatersEdge.events
Entertaining groups of any size is one of our specialties. Let our staff plan your wedding rehearsal dinner or reception, whether it’s cocktails and hors d’oeuvre for 10 or a seated dinner for 200. Each of your guests will feel like a VIP! Sambuca is where Houston comes for their parties and events.
400
Y
909 Texas Ave Suite 2A • Houston, TX 77002 281.823.8600 • LawlessSpirits.com
909 Texas Ave • Houston, TX 77002 713.227.7423 • SambucaRestaurant.com
Max. Guests
N
Min. Price Call
111 North Post Oak Ln • Houston, TX 77024 713.680.2626 • Houstonian.com
Located in the historic Rice Hotel, Lawless is Houston’s newest en vogue establishment. The interior exudes glamour in every detail. Upon entry, guests will proceed up a grand staircase that sits beneath a glorious chandelier. The outside terrace is a beautiful backdrop as it overlooks downtown.
Events at a Time
N
Ibiza Food & Wine Bar
The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa
Events at a Time
The Hines Center offers an immaculate space ready to bring your vision to life. We are centrally located within walking distance of hotels, nightlife and culture hubs, with a modern "blank slate" look & feel to decorate however you choose. The Hines Center offers complimentary event parking, the option to select your own caterer, and premium audio-visual equipment for your convenience.
400
Outdoor Site
Y
Y
Min. Price Call
// RECEPTION GUIDE // BROWSE OUR ONLINE REHEARSAL DINNER AND RECEPTION LOC ATION GUIDES, SEE PHOTOS,
Outside Catering Permitted
Kosher Menu Available
Outdoor Area Available
Handicap Accessible
1
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281.362.0011
300
2
$50
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Ashton Gardens - West 18002 Clay Rd • Houston, TX 77084
281.656.2449
400
1
$37
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The Astorian 2500 Summer St • Houston, TX 77007
832.460.6695
750
1
$55
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The Ballroom at Bayou Place 500 Texas Ave • Houston, TX 77002
713.400.1299
800
1
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The Bell Tower on 34th 901 W. 34th St • Houston, TX 77018
713.868.2355
300
2
$70
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Bernhardt Winery 9043 Country Road 204 • Plantersville, TX 77363
936.894.9829
150
1
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Boardwalk FantaSea Yacht Charters #8 Kemah Boardwalk, Suite G • Kemah, TX 77565
281.538.9600
128
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The Bougainvilleas 12126 Westheimer Rd • Houston, TX 77077
832.914.7844
350
1
$68
Brennan’s of Houston 3300 Smith St • Houston, TX 77006
713.522.9711
200
2
$60
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Briscoe Manor 5801 FM 723 • Richmond, TX 77406
281.238.4700
350
1
$36
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Cadillac Bar 1802 Shepherd Dr • Houston, TX 77007
713.862.2020
400
2
$12
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Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse 5865 Westheimer Rd • Houston, TX 77057
713.244.9500
110
3
$49
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Chateau Cocomar 14525 Champions Dr • Houston, TX 77069
281.919.1161
999
1
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Chateau Polonez 12612 Malcomson Rd • Houston, TX 77070
281.655.5656
352
1
$60
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Corinthian Houston 202 Fannin St at Franklin • Houston, TX 77002
713.222.2002
1900
1
$75
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Crystal Ballroom at The Rice 909 Texas Ave • Houston, TX 77002
713.227.7423
400
2
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Page Number
Ceremony Site Available
Off-Site Catering Available
300
Minimum Price Per Person
281.703.9091
Ashton Gardens - North 21919 Inverness Forest Blvd • Houston, TX 77073
Simultaneous Events
Maximum Capacity
25566 Bradbury Rd • Hockley, TX 77447
Venue
Phone
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
15 Acres
DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Downtown 400 Dallas St • Houston, TX 77002
713.351.5758
$105
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DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Greenway Plaza 6 E. Greenway Plaza • Houston, TX 77046
713.850.2305
350
2
$35
Downtown Aquarium 410 Bagby St • Houston, TX 77002
713.315.5168
400
5
$30
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The Dunlavy 3422 Allen Pkwy • Houston, TX 77019
832.523.1777
220
1
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Eagle Dancer Ranch 1621 FM 473 • Sisterdale, TX 78006
210.508.0344
300
1
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Four Oaks at Mound Creek Ranch 12569 FM 579 E • Leona, TX 75850
936.348.0178
300
1
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The Gallery 6303 Beverly Hill St • Houston, TX 77057
713.255.2889
300
1
Call
The Gardens at Madeley Manor 915 N. Frazier St • Conroe, TX 77301
936.524.3352
200
1
The Grand Hall at Deer Lake Lodge 10500 Deer Lake Lodge Rd • Montgomery, TX 77316
936.647.1303
200
Heather’s Glen 200 E. Phillips St • Conroe, TX 77301
936.441.6611
Hilton Americas - Houston 1600 Lamar St • Houston, TX 77010 Hilton Houston North 12400 Greenspoint Dr • Houston, TX 77060 Hilton Houston Post Oak 2001 Post Oak Blvd • Houston, TX 77056
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Page Number
Ceremony Site Available
Handicap 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
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713.739.8000
2200
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281.875.2222
1000
5
$30
713.961.9300
1000
3
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The Hines Center 500 Fannin Suite 100 • Houston, TX 77002 713. 590.3302 80 1 Call √ √ √ 34 Hotel Galvez & Spa 2024 Seawall Blvd • Galveston, TX 77550
409.765.7721
350
3
Hotel ZaZa Memorial City 9787 Katy Freeway • Houston, TX 77024
713.465.9292
400
7
$125
Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District 5701 S Main St • Houston, TX 77005
713.526.1991
400
12
$150
Houston Racquet Club 10709 Memorial Dr • Houston, TX 77024
713.464.4811
300
2
The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa 111 North Post Oak Ln • Houston, TX 77024
713.680.2626
450
6
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Hughes Manor 2811 Washington Ave • Houston, TX 77007
713.864.2797
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Julia Ideson Library 550 McKinney St • Houston, TX 77002
832.393.1646
350
1
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JW Marriott Houston Downtown 806 Main St • Houston, TX 77002
713.237.1111
400
2
$150
Kemah Gardens 1019 Lewis Dr • Kemah, TX 77565
281.334.0501
150
1
King River Ranch 2054 Ranch Rd 1320 • Johnson City, TX 78636
830.392.6484
250
Las Velas 5714 Fairdale Ln • Houston, TX 77057
713.977.5773
The Lyceum of Galveston Island 2401 Winnie St • Galveston, TX 77550 Magnolia Hotel Houston 1100 Texas Ave • Houston, TX 77002 The Manor House of Richmond 907 Morton St • Richmond, TX 77469
$60
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409.789.4142
300
1
713.221.0011
230
2
281.725.3160
150
1
Call
Marriott Houston North 255 N. Sam Houston Pkwy East • Houston, TX 77060
281.875.4000
530
3
The Meekermark 21156 Karen Switch Road • Magnolia, TX, 77354
281.565.4285
400
Moffitt Oaks 20125 Cedar Ln • Tomball, TX 77377
281.370.6616
300
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Northgate Country Club 17110 Northgate Forest Dr • Houston, TX 77068 281.444.5302 320 1 $32 √ √ √ √ 92 All information is subject to change without notice. Some features may be available on a limited, seasonal or by-request-only basis.
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Ouisie's Table 3939 San Felipe St • Houston, TX 77027
713.528.2264
Page Number
Handicap Accessible
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Outdoor Area Available
Call
Minimum Price Per Person
1
Simultaneous Events
600
Maximum Capacity
512.847.3646
Omni Houston Hotel 4 Riverway Dr • Houston, TX 77056
Phone
Old Glory Ranch 3633 River Rd • Wimberley, TX 78676
Venue
Kosher Menu Available
RECEPTION LOCATIONS |
Outside Catering Permitted
:
Off-Site Catering Available
| WEDDING PLANNING
The Parador 2021 Binz St • Houston, TX 77004
713.529.3050
550
1
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√
√ 30
Pecan Grove Plantation Country Club 3000 Plantation Dr • Richmond, TX 77406
281.342.9940
240
1
$30
√
√ 93
Petroleum Club of Houston 1201 Louisiana St, 35th Floor • Houston, TX 77002
713.659.1431
250
2
$65
√
√ 32
Pine Forest Country Club 18003 Clay Rd • Houston, TX 77084
281.463.0900
350
1
$50
√
√
√
√ 89
Plantation on the Bay 3600 Tri City Beach Road • Beach City, TX 77523
817.233.3473
300
1
$30
√
√ √
√
√ 127
Raveneaux Country Club 9415 Cypresswood Dr • Spring, TX 77379
281.320.6009
325
2
Call
√
√
√
√
√ OBC/IFC
7122 Old Katy Rd • Houston, TX 77024
713.962.2248
800
1
$65
√
√
√
√
Sandlewood Manor 22402 Holly Creek Trail • Tomball, TX 77377
281.466.9487
400
1
Call
√
√ 21
Sheraton Suites Houston near the Galleria 2400 West Loop South • Houston, TX 77027
713.586.5133
250
6
$50
√ √
√ 90_
Southern Lace Estates 1110 Indian Shores Rd • Crosby, TX 77532
281.928.2455
700
1
$40
√
√ 125
Sweetwater Country Club 4400 Palm Royale Blvd • Sugar Land, TX 77479
281.980.4100
300
1
$39
√ √
Texas Renaissance Festival 21778 FM 1774 • Todd Mission, TX 77363
800.458.3435
400
4
$22
The Tremont House 2300 Ship's Mechanic Row • Galveston, TX 77550
409.763.0300
400
2
$60
√ √
√ 43
The Villagio 10901 Braes Bend Dr • Houston, TX 77071
281.352.0903
500
1
$59
√
√ √
√
√ 115
Walden on Lake Houston Golf & Country Club 18100 Walden Forest Dr • Humble, TX 77346
832.445.2104
240
1
$30
√ √
√
√ 93
Waterpoint Premier Lakeside Venue 15264 Hwy 105 West • Montgomery, TX 77356
936.597.7700
300
1
Call
√
√
√
√
√ 105
Waters Edge 3901 Nasa Pkwy • El Lago, TX 77586
281.291.9900
400
1
Call
√
√
√
√
√ 16-17
The Westin Galleria Houston 5060 W. Alabama St • Houston, TX 77056
713.770.6267
1000
3
Call
√
√
√
√
√ 49
The Westin Houston Memorial City 945 Gessner Rd • Houston, TX 77024
281.501.4395
700
3
$42
√ √
√ 68_
The Westin Oaks Houston at the Galleria 5011 Westheimer Rd at Post Oak • Houston, TX 77056
713.770.6267
600
2
Call
√
√
√
√
√ 49
Willow Fork Country Club 21055 Westheimer Pkwy • Katy, TX 77450
281.579.6262
250
1
$25
√
√ √
√
√ 93_
The Woodlands Resort 2301 North Millbend Dr • The Woodlands, TX 77380
866.342.4039
800
8
$89
√
√ 94_
√
The Revaire
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√ √
√
√
39
√
√ 93
√
√ 107
NOTES: W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 149
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LADIES WHO
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LUNCH S U P O N A L O B S T E R B I S Q U E . S AV O R A M A C A R O N . S I P A M I M O S A . I T ’ S T I M E F O R A P R E - W E D D I N G L U N C H WITH YOUR FAVE LADIES! THESE FOUR HOUSTON SPOTS WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU, AND YOUR CREW, WITH FINE FOOD AND DRINK, AND FLAWLESS SERVICE.
PHOTO AMA BY AISHA
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P H O T O : C O U R T E S Y O F C O R D Ú A R E S TA U R A N T S
PHOTO: COURTESY OF BRENNAN’S OF HOUSTON
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P H O T O : C O U R T E S Y O F C O R D Ú A R E S TA U R A N T S
CORDÚA RESTAURANTS: AMÉRICAS & CHURRASCOS The Cordúa name is synonymous with bold Latin American flavors and warm hospitality—both of which are on delicious display at Américas and Churrascos, father-and-son team Michael and David Cordúa’s esteemed Houston eateries. For South American “parilla” favorites (grilled chicken with palm hearts and coconut beurre blanc, grilled filet with black-bean sauce and avocado, grilled wild salmon with shrimp and tomatillo broth) along with bountiful margaritas and effervescent mojitos, Churrascos offers you and your girls tons of taste in a tastefully hip steakhouse setting. Pan-Latin cuisine with a focus on local ingredients is on the menu at Américas, where specialties include gourmet tacos, slow-cooked carnitas and fresh, Latin-influenced salads, any of which would pair beautifully with a tangy-sweet Brazilian caipirinha or tart, colorful Tangerine Passion cocktail. Make your Cordúa lunch complete with a round of tres-leches for the team—the owner-chefs’ signature dessert, and an enduring Houston favorite.
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THE HOUSTONIAN HOTEL, CLUB & SPA Stretch your ladies’ lunch into a full-day affair, at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa. We recommend kicking things off with a few hours at Trellis—the hotel’s acclaimed 17,000-square-foot spa, where you and your girls can enjoy a soak and a spa treatment of your choice—say…a deep-tissue massage, a rejuvenating Citrus Drench or a detoxifying Tension Relief Cocoon? When it’s time to refuel, order up a couple bottles of sauvignon blanc and fresh gulf-shrimp crepes or grilled rosemary-lemon chicken from the exclusive Trellis spa menu. Or, for a decidedly more luxurious meal, take your pre-reserved seats in The Houstonian’s Manor House, an exclusive and intimate dining destination set in a historic private home on the hotel’s manicured grounds.
BRENNAN’S OF HOUSTON Among the grandest of Houston’s dining establishments, Brennan’s is a longtime favorite for bridal showers, bridesmaids’ luncheons and intimate meals with dear friends and family members. If privacy is your priority, Brennan’s offers a selection of discreet dining spaces where you and your group can feast on Creole specialties, sip rosé all day and laugh to your heart’s content. Happy to hang out with the lunch crowd? Reserve a Brennan’s table for a handful of your closest gals, and giggle over Champagne and caviar, cornmeal-crusted grouper, wild-shrimp PHOTO: COURTESY OF BRENNAN’S OF HOUSTON
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remoulade, and a crème-de-violette sour, or a “midtown tea” cocktail with Satsuma-rum liqueur and orange curaçao. Don’t miss the decadent Bananas Foster for dessert!
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WEDDING SERVICES |
M C CORMICK & SCHMICK’S With three distinct Houston locations, steak and seafood mecca McCormick & Schmick’s offers plenty of options for gathering your girls to enjoy a leisurely lunch in the weeks leading up to your wedding. Whether you choose the Uptown Park location’s soaring ceilings and stained-glass windows, the Town & Country Village location’s cozy fire pit, or the Downtown Pavilion location’s palm-shaded patio and contemporary private-dining space, McCormick & Schmick’s will indulge you and your entourage with fresh fish and shellfish specialties, succulent steak, gourmet salads and decadent desserts. Start off with an effervescent flute of Veuve Clicquot and freshshucked oysters, followed, perhaps, by sesame-crusted ahi tuna or signature lump-crab cakes, then finish things up with a monumental “chocolate bag” filled with white-chocolate mousse and fresh berries—the perfect opp for sharesies with your besties!
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PHOTO: COURTESY OF MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S
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| WEDDING PLANNING
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P H O T O : C O U R T E S Y O F L AW L E S S SPIRITS & KITCHEN
LAWLESS SPIRITS & KITCHEN While not technically a lunch spot—the Rice Hotel’s swank Lawless Spirits & Kitchen doesn’t open until 4 p.m.—this glitzy Downtown destination accommodates late-lunch appetites with a diverse cocktail list, and plush lounge areas provide a unique atmosphere perfect for girl time. The global-inspired menu featuring nibbles such as Korean chicken tacos and figand-prosciutto flatbread. It’s the perfect spot to gather your bridesmaids for a wedding-planning check-in while you fete them with food and drink to thank them for their dedication and unflagging support!
P H O T O : C O U R T E S Y O F L AW L E S S SPIRITS & KITCHEN
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REAL WEDDINGS
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09.09.17
MR.& MR S. / / H A N NA H & S C OT T / /
COUPLE: Hannah Gelbs & Scott Gadd I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 215 I WEDDING COLORS: Wine, Cream & Gold COORDINATOR & INVITATIONS: A Day To Remember I CAKE: Edible Designs I WEDDING DRESS: Joan Pillow Bridal Salon BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids I HONEYMOON: Fiji PHOTOGRAPHY: Koby Brown Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Junior League Of Houston / Johanna Terry Events / House Of Hough / Lavish Linens / Elegant Chairs & More / Jonny Black Productions Doppelganger Band / Mark Morarie Films
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 159
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REAL WEDDINGS
HER FAVORITE SIP:
topo chico
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
french macarons
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
riding my quarterhorse, tinker—my border collie, madison, can always be found following close behind WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he has a calming and genuine presence that makes me feel like a better person every day
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
old fashioned
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
chocolate cake
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
watching west virginia university football on a sports-bar patio in the heights WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
every day she challenges me to be the best man that i can be
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REAL WEDDINGS
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Scott frequently describes Hannah as his “Tinderella,” as he found her through the Tinder dating app. Their first date, at a local pub in the Heights, led to another, then another…until one winter day, when Scott persuaded Hannah to stop at their favorite restaurant, en route home from a friend’s dinner party, for a quick nightcap. Except, “Upon walking in, I quickly realized this would not be a quick drink,” says Hannah. “Among roses and Champagne, Scott dropped to one knee and shared all of the reasons he saw me as his future wife.” While their fall wedding, planned and styled by Claudia De Velasco of A Day To Remember, was everything they’d hoped it would be, the weeks that led up to it were not without strife: “Hurricane Harvey hit Houston two weeks before our wedding,” Hannah recounts. “After seeing the suffering and devastation it brought to the city where we both grew up, it was difficult to transition back to a celebratory mood. But we channeled these feelings into organizing a Hurricane Harvey relief fund, collected at our wedding reception.”
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 161
162 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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 - 1 0 MO NT HS B E FO R E:
Book your venue.
Hire a wedding planner.
Draw up a budget.
Pick a wedding date.
wedding theme/design.
Start envisioning your
Get engaged!
12
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 :
DOWNLOAD YOUR COPY @ WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM
/ / WEDDING PLANNER / /
1 2 + M O N T HS B EF O RE :
TO
YES
I SAID
L A R R Y FA G A L A
WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM
2018
WEDDING SOIREE
attend
Attend your shower.
Make your toast list.
Order wedding favors.
Rent or purchase formalwear.
Finalize your flowers.
Finalize your menu.
3 - 4 M ON T HS BEF O R E :
Start your gown fittings.
Book your rehearsal dinner venue.
your guest list.
Give your shower host
professionals.
Schedule hair and makeup
Taste cakes and hire a baker.
Purchase your wedding bands.
4 -6 M O N T H S BE FO R E :
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 M O N T H S BE FO R E :
S Y LV I E G I L S Y LV I E G I L
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 163
3
6
8
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 :
V
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.
1- 3 DAY S BE FOR E :
|
REAL WEDDINGS
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03.25.18
MR.& MR S. / / DAV I Q U E & TA R E Q / /
COUPLE: Davique Dumars & Tareq Humphrey | NUMBER OF GUESTS: 220 I WEDDING COLORS: Blush, Ivory & Gold VENUE: Westin Galleria Houston | COORDINATOR, STYLING & FLOWERS: Breathtaking Events REHEARSAL DINNER: Westin Oaks Houston | INVITATIONS & STATIONERY: Isabella Invitations | HONEYMOON: Bali PHOTOGRAPHY: Sterling Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Mademoiselle’s Place / Cake Fine Pastry / Elegant Chairs & More Inkredible Dance Floors / Laced Vinyl Shoppe / Limitless Lights And Sound / Imperial Photo Booth
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
sweet tea and lemonade HER FAVORITE SWEET:
cheesecake
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
traveling and ballet class
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his honesty and loyalty
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
apple juice
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
apple pie
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
traveling and relaxing
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her loyalty
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 165
|
While they both attended Southern University in Louisiana, Davique and Tareq didn’t actually meet until they had relocated to Houston after college. Introduced by a mutual friend, they soon became smitten with each other. Then, just a couple of days before Christmas in 2016, Tareq secretly gathered about 40 of their loved ones and popped the question in Davique’s parents’ home (the bride’s father is former NFL defensive back David Dumars, and her uncle is NBA legend Joe Dumars). Notes Davique, “Our wedding theme was simple elegance. We wanted a candlelit ceremony and reception with minimal flowers.” Planning firm Breathtaking Events delivered, designing a draped tunnel entryway to the festivities, and bringing in crystal candelabras, a monogrammed dance floor, and an oversized mirror that served as the couple’s seating chart. The couple says their most cherished wedding highlight was simple: “Seeing our guests celebrate and enjoy themselves.”
166 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
REAL WEDDINGS
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/ / TO WED / /
OF TE
L I CE N S E
XA
T
TE
S H E TA
S
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 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 713.755.6411. 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 in the state of Texas.
NO. 4 : HOW MUCH WILL WE NEED TO PAY TO GET A MARRIAGE LICENSE AND WHAT IS THE 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, 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.
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.
COU RTESY OF CIT Y AP P L ICAT IONS .COM AND CCL ERK .H CT X.NET
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P H O T O : S Y LV I E G I L / / G O W N : M O N I Q U E L H U I L L I E R , H E A D P I E C E : M A R I A E L E N A , B O T H F R O M J O A N P I L L O W B R I D A L S A L O N J E W E L R Y: Z A D O K J E W E L E R S / / S E T & S T Y L I N G : T O D D E V E N T S / / WA R D R O B E S T Y L I S T: S U M M A R S A L A H M A K E U P : V C I A R T I S T V I C T O R I A C A L L AWAY / / H A I R : D E N N I S C L E N D E N N E N
170 JEWELRY
184 W E D D I N G AT T I R E
224 B E A U T Y, H E A L T H + F I T N E S S
WE DDI NG STYLE //
GET THE PERFECT LOOK
//
O U T E R B E A U T Y S TA R T S W I T H I N N E R W E L L N E S S . N O U R I S H Y O U R S P I R I T . P A M P E R Y O U R B O D Y . P R I M P , P R I M E AND PREP YOURSELF FROM HEAD TO TOE. THEN DRESS IT ALL UP WITH THE GOWN OF YOUR DREAMS, AND THE PERFECT ACCESSORIES TO COMPLETE YOUR LOOK.
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 169
| WEDDING STYLE
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JEWELRY |
PHOTO: SYLVIE GIL
//
R E A L R O C K S, R E A L
//
TA L K YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING IS UNLIKE ANY OTHER PIECE OF JEWELRY YOU’LL EVER WEAR—PART TREASURED ADORNMENT, PART PROFOUND PROMISE, PART ENDURING SYMBOL OF LOVE. WHICH CAN MAKE BUYING YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING A PRETTY DAUNTING PROSPECT. GET ANSWERS TO YOUR HARD ROCK QUESTIONS HERE!
RING ZADOK JEWELERS
170 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
:
STYLING TODD EVENTS
P H O T O : S Y LV I E G I L GOWN: NAEEM KHAN, JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON J E W E L R Y: Z A D O K J E W E L E R S B O U Q U E T, S E T & S T Y L I N G : T O D D E V E N T S WA R D R O B E S T Y L I S T: S U M M A R S A L A H M A K E U P : V I C T O R I A C A L L AWAY HAIR: DENNIS CLENDENNEN
| WEDDING STYLE
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JEWELRY |
1
ROMANTIC SURPRISE OR ROMANTIC INVESTMENT? Decide how you’ll decide on your ring. The element of surprise is part of most proposal fantasies. But so is the element of loving your ring. Before you set out on the path to engagement, talk with your future spouse about how involved you want to be in the engagementring-selection process. It’s perfectly acceptable, and, in fact, advisable, to participate in choosing the ring you’ll wear forever as a symbol of your enduring commitment. If choosing the exact ring you want is important to you, go with your partner to the jeweler, look at diamonds together, and try on rings that captivate you. If you truly want your partner to choose your ring himself, or herself, make sure he or she knows exactly what style you want, by sharing photos of rings you like, or having a close friend or family member convey this information and/or accompany your spouse-to-be to the jeweler, at least during the initial visit.
2
HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
Shop in
person, not online. Jewelry-designer and jewelryretailer websites, and online ring photos, are invaluable resources for researching ring styles and getting ideas. But once it’s time to actually shop for a ring, it’s time for a visit to a brick-and-mortar jewelry store. Fortunately, Houston is home to family-owned Zadok Jewelers, which specializes in engagement and wedding jewelry, and has a GIA-certified gemologist on site to assist with diamond selection and custom design options.
3 STONES FIRST, SETTINGS SECOND Buy a loose diamond, then choose your setting. Purchasing a pre-set diamond engagement ring might seem like the most convenient, and least expensive, route to go when buying a ring. But that’s P H O T O : S Y LV I E G I L A R M A N I J A C K E T: N E I M A N M A R C U S H O U S T O N F E N D I PA N T S : S A K S F I F T H AV E N U E HOUSTON GALLERIA HEADPIECE, VEIL & CHOKER: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON EARRINGS: ZADOK JEWELERS SET & STYLING: TODD EVENTS WA R D R O B E S T Y L I S T: S U M M A R S A L A H M A K E U P : V I C T O R I A C A L L AWAY HAIR: DENNIS CLENDENNEN
really not the case. By purchasing a loose diamond, you’ll be able to inspect the diamond fully, with a focus on the qualities that are most important to you (see tip #4), and it will be easier to stick to your ring budget, since you won’t have to raise your budget, or settle for less, as you might with a pre-set ring. You’ll also have the most flexibility with design, since you can create any kind of ring you want around your center stone.
172 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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:
JEWELRY |
4
Navi-
CARAT, COLOR, CLARITY, CUT
gate the 4 C’s with ease. With a loose diamond, you can work with your qualified gemologist (there should be one on staff at your jeweler of choice) to assess the four essential diamond features—carat, color, clarity and cut—and decide which are most important to you. Carat refers to the diamond’s weight, while color and clarity refer to its hue, and any flaws or blemishes (most of which are microscopic in size) in the stone. Cut—not just the cut style (i.e. princess, cushion, square, etc.), but how the diamond is manipulated and shaped by a skilled gem expert—is arguably the most important feature of your diamond, because it, above all others, will determine the brilliance, or “fire,” your finished engagement stone will have..
5 MAKE A TIMELESS CHOICE
Pick a ring
style you’ll be able to wear always. First and foremost, your engagement ring needs to fit you flawlessly. To ensure that it does, schedule fittings for when you are well rested (but not first thing in the morning, when you’re most likely to retain water) and when your body is at a comfortable temperature—not too hot, not too cold. Also, while you may want to go for the biggest, most spectacular diamond you can afford—this is your engagement ring, after all—an excessively expensive ring may end up being a source of anxiety rather than admiration. Will you constantly worry about losing it? Will you perpetually be afraid of having it stolen? Will you be frantically inspecting it throughout the day to ensure all the stones are in place? This should be one of the happiest occasions of your life, so choose a ring that won’t compromise that joy with the burden of worry. If you’re active— an avid swimmer or intrepid rock-climber, or even an aficionado of twice-weekly hot yoga—make sure your ring fits snugly enough to move with you.
6
DON’T WORRY - BE HAPPY!
Protect
your investment. Insuring your engagement ring or PHOTO: AMA BY AISHA MONIQUE LHUILLIER GOWN, MARIA ELENA HEADPIECE, EARRINGS: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON MAKEUP & HAIR: ETOILLY ARTISTY FLOWERS & DECOR: PLANTS N’ PETALS LOCATION: THE DUNLAVY
center stone is an excellent way to both protect the value of your ring, and secure your peace of mind. And if you’re still inclined to fret over your ring, consider having a less-expensive copy made, with faux gems, to take with you when you travel—while your original remains ensconced in a locked safe, a bank safety-deposit box or private vault.
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TRENDY 20/18
1
2
WHAT’S
HOT! S TA CK S AN D WRAP S
3
4
5
1. DEWDROP ROSE-GOLD BAND DeBeers debeers.com 2. REVERSE ATTELAGE SUITE NO. 04 Anna Sheffield annasheffield.com 3. BLUE-SAPPHIRE HAZELINE SUITE Anna Sheffield annasheffield.com 4. THE IVY LANE TRIPLE-STACKED SURFBOARD RING Tacori tacori.com 5. SERPENTE DI LUCE II RING Daniella Kronfle daniellakronfle.com W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 175
L O S A H
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PHOTO: SARAH FOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHY
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WHAT’S
HOT! PETA L S AN D VI N E S
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3
4
1. HARPER ANTIQUE SILVER CROWN Tania Maras taniamaras.com 2. ORCHIDS & CRYSTAL FLOWERS HALO Keren Wolf kerenwolf.com 3. HELENY CROWN Keren Wolf kerenwolf.com 4. AURA HEADBAND Ashlee Lauren ashleelauren.com
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< FLEURETTE GARLAND
Hermoine Harbutt hermioneharbutt.com
< FLOWER COMB
Maria Elena joanpillowbridal.com
PHOTO: AMY FANTON
> C RYS TA L T I A R A
Maria Elena joanpillowbridal.com
> VIOLETTE TIARA
Hermione Harbutt hermioneharbutt.com
PHOTO: AMY FANTON
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2
1
WHAT’S
HOT!
3
ENGAGEMENT RINGS
4
5
1. 'PASSION' DIAMOND SOLITAIRE ENGAGEMENT RING Simon G. zadok.com 2. 'LAYING FRONT' ROSE-GOLD & DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING Norman Silverman normansilverman.com 3. 'TRILLIANT' MICROPAVÉ ENGAGEMENT RING William Goldberg williamgoldberg.com 4. 'STAR FLOWER'-SETTING ROUND BRILLIANT-CUT DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING Graff Diamonds graffdiamonds.com 5. 'VIVIAN' ROSE-GOLD & EMERALD-CUT DIAMOND HALO ENGAGEMENT RING Sylvie zadok.com W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 179
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O T M A N Y A
/ / O F A N E N G AG E M E N T R I N G / / C E N TE R STO N E
H EA D P AV É HALO S H OU L D ER
ME TAL AC C EN T S T ON E
BR ID GE SH AN K
SIDE NOTE : LOVE LETTERS An engagement ring engraving, no matter how small, has BIG meaning for the wearer. Our favorite engraving options are short phrases (“No One But You,” “All My Love,” “Never To Part”), single words (“Eternity,” “Forever,” “Always”), or your first initials joined by “&.”
H ALLMAR K E N G R AV IN G
L A V IE EN ROS E C O L L E C TI O N EV A P INK ENGAG E M E N T R I N G
jeandousset.com
S IZ IN G A R EA
H ALO T H ERE! Want to amp up the volume of your center stone? Opt for a halo setting, where pavé or invisible-set diamonds encircle the center stone, making it appear larger, and increasing the overall dazzle of your ring. Bonus: You’ll be in sync with celebs like Jessica Biel, Jessica Alba and Olivia Wilde—all of whom chose this ultra-sparkling style for their engagement rings!
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09.23.17
MR.& MR S. //JENNIFER & DOUGLAS //
COUPLE: Jennifer McGinnis & Douglas Burt I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 180 I WEDDING COLORS: White, Gray & Blush VENUE: Ashton Gardens West I DRAPERY: EB Inc. Event Rentals & Design I BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids LIGHTING & SOUND: LG Event Entertainment & Production I ENTERTAINMENT: Royal Dukes Band I HONEYMOON: St. Lucia PHOTOGRAPHY: The Cotton Collective CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Keely Thorne Events / Katie & Co. / Maxit Flower Design / Smash Cakery / Aztec Events & Tents / Who Made The Cake Sunkissed And Made Up / Mia Bridal Couture / Wolf Diamonds / Cakewalk Films
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
hot green tea
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
warm chocolate-chip cookie HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
spending time outdoors, a great workout class, and being surrounded by my hubby, family and friends WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his patience and his goofy sense of humor— he always wants to make me smile
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
moscow mule
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
chocolate-chip-cookie-dough ice cream HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
traveling and going on new adventures with my wife, or watching movies and relaxing WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her positive energy and her kind heart— she always puts others before herself
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We sure do love a good proposal-by-subterfuge story, and a good post-proposal-celebration story, and Douglas and Jennifer’s is a bit of both. “Douglas tricked me into thinking we were meeting a friend to have lunch, and ended up proposing under the restaurant’s gazebo while our family and friends were secretly watching from a private room upstairs,” Jennifer recounts. “After the proposal, we had lunch all together!” The couple chose Ashton Gardens West for their wedding celebration, where lush florals in shades of deep green and white got a romantic touch from pretty pops of blush. “Our specialty drinks, cocktail napkins and menu design added the perfect touch,” Jennifer says. “The stress of planning and making sure everything was right was worth it. The night was so much fun, we wish we could do it all over again!”
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PHOTO: SYLVIE GIL MONIQUE LHUILLIER GOWN, HEADPIECE: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON // CAMEO RING: SLOAN/HALL SET & DECOR: TODD EVENTS // WARDROBE STYLING: SUMMAR SALAH MAKEUP: VCI ARTIST VICTORIA CALLAWAY // HAIR: DENNIS CLENDENNEN
// T O S H O P T H E D R E S S // FOLLOW THIS ESSENTIAL ADVICE FOR SELECTING, BUYING AND CARING FOR YOUR “YES, YES, YES!” WEDDING DRESS AND ACCESSORIES.
GOWN
JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON
S E T, F L O W E R S & D E C O R WEDDING RING
TODD EVENTS
ZADOK JEWELERS
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DON'T DROP IN Shopping for wedding attire is different from
shopping for regular clothes in one critical way: Most salons advise, if not require, a pre-set appointment with an in-store consultant to help you choose and try on your selections. There are a few reasons for this: One, the sheer number of gowns and attire at any given salon can be overwhelming; a consultant will take into account your budget, wedding theme and style preferences, and help you narrow down your choices to a manageable number. Two, wedding gowns are way more complicated, in many cases, than just plain fancy dresses; your dedicated gown consultant will help you work those laces, pearl buttons and illusionnetting bits (and snap on those industrial-chic spring clamps that get the dress to fit just so, prior to alterations). And three, salon consultants aren’t just salespeople, they’re experienced stylists; your consultant will help you choose appropriate accessories (belt, veil or headpiece, jewelry, footwear) to help show you how your gown might actually look when you’re big-day-done-up.
2
DON'T JUMP THE GUN Starting your gown-shopping
adventure too early is just as risky as starting too late (see item 3). Since other elements of your wedding will determine the best gown not just for your figure and style, but for the grand occasion itself, it’s wise to have things like your wedding season, venue and general theme or “vibe” nailed down before you delve into dress shopping. Designer suits pose a problem as well: You and/or your 186 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
PHOTO: SYLVIE GIL NAEEM KHAN GOWN: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON // JEWELRY: ZADOK JEWELERS WARDROBE STYLING: SUMMAR SALAH //SET & DECOR: TODD EVENTS MAKEUP: VICTORIA CALLAWAY //HAIR: DENNIS CLENDENNEN
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spouse-to-be may be in love with something one season, only to have it become unavailable
S H O P P I N G F O R A S I G NAT U R E L O O K ? Lace, shimmer, color, trains, sleeves, capes, bows, feathers, statement-making veils—this season’s selections truly offer more variety than ever to brides on their quest for the perfect dress. But one trend dominates: individuality. Above all, brides are looking for ways to express themselves, and stand apart from the crowd. And designers are responding to their style demands…beautifully!
when it comes time to buy. Another risk: Shopping for a gown more than a year in advance of your wedding (or before you’re even officially engaged!) can lead to bad dress decisions. Lots can change in the 12 months before your wedding, including your wedding design scheme, your figure and the latest collections available at local salons.
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3
PAD YOUR TIMELINE Leave time for ordering, receiving and altera-
tions. About nine to 10 months prior to your wedding is the general rule of thumb for when to begin your gown shopping. And that “begin” is an important distinction—after all, finding the right wedding dress can take time. So can ordering your dress, waiting for your dress to be made and delivered to your salon, having your dress altered to fit your body perfectly, and selecting the accessories, footwear and jewelry with which you’ll build your complete bridal ensemble. Remember, that gorgeous soufflé of tulle and lace you’re slinking around the salon in is a sample— your actual gown will be made to order by the design house. About eight to nine months out from your wedding day, expect to put a deposit down on your gown—you’ll pay the remainder once it’s delivered to your salon, about three to four months before your wedding. In the last couple of months prior to the big day, you’ll do your fittings, make minor alterations, add accessories, and pull the whole fabulous outfit together.
PH OTO: SY LVIE GI L, GOW N: SA R EH NO UR I
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NIX THE CROWD This is a toughie, but trust us: While it’s tempting to bring your mom, his mom, your aunts, your sisters, his cousins, your brothers, your bridesmaids and all your assorted
besties along to weigh in on your dress choices, one or two trusted escorts is a much better idea. Bringing lots and lots of folks to your appointment has an odd tendency to lead toward conflicts in taste, or, on the flip side, a “mob rules” mentality. At the very least, having too many opinion-givers can slow things down, and limit the number of pieces you’re actually able to try on during your appointment (typical bridal salon appointments are one to one-and-a-half hours long, max). We recommend bringing your mom, a select member of your wedding party or family, and maybe your wedding planner (who offers the advantage of a more objective opinion). More than three “guests” at your appointment is probably too many.
5
ARRIVE PREPARED Getting ready for your salon appointment involves several steps. First, do
your research; while you don’t want to arrive armed with a massive binder of designer collections and must-try “looks,” it does help to have at least an idea about silhou-
ettes, cuts, styles and designers you admire. Don’t show up to your salon appointment in sweats and a greasy bedhead. You’re trying on the outfit (or two!) you’ll wear on the most important occasion of your life—start from a place of pretty. While you may not opt for professional makeup and hair, you’ll want to look put-together and well groomed at the very least. Wear shoes of roughly the height you’re planning to wear on your wedding day, and wear or bring a strapless bra and shapewear (though most salons have these available to try under your gown). Oh, and don’t forget to fuel up. Gown shopping can be emotionally and physically demanding. Don’t starve yourself before hitting the salon. Instead, have a good, solid, protein-packed meal or smoothie an hour or two before, and consider bringing a snack such as nuts, dried fruit or an energy bar, in case your energy flags.
6
FOCUS ON FIT RATHER THAN SIZE Wedding gown sizing and regular clothes sizing have almost
nothing in common. You may be a size 2 in your normal, daily life, only to discover that the wedding gown of your dreams fits you best in size 6. It’s OK, really. First off,
PHOTO: AMA BY AISHA GOWN: ANNE BARGE LOCATION: THE DUNLAVY DECOR: PLANTS N' PETALS MAKEUP & HAIR: ETOILLY ARTISTRY ACCESSORIES, HAYLEY PAIGE GOWN: NOW & FOREVER BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
nobody but you, the salon consultant and the designer will ever really know what size your dress is. Second, what good is there in buying a size 2 gown if it squeezes you in all the wrong places and cuts off your circulation, causing you to faint dead away at the altar and miss doing the cha cha slide at the reception with your sorority sisters? The best wedding day attire are the clothes that fit you best. Which doesn’t just mean hugging your voluptuous curves, or showing off your strong back and shoulders, or making your tall frame look willowy instead of gangly. It means making you feel that feeling, all the feelings, when you look in the mirror. It makes you exalt in the anticipation of that moment when your betrothed first lays eyes upon you on that magical day. And it’s out there, waiting for you to fall in love with it.
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< EM B ELLISHED PINK SAT IN EVENING B AG
Ted Baker nordstrom.com
|
< LULU BAG IN PIN K
Sachin & Babi sachinandbabi.com
W H AT â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S
HOT! CLUTCHES
>
GO L D C LO UD CLUT C H
Jimmy Choo jimmychoo.com
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Ted Baker tedbaker.com
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WHAT’S HAUTE ON // FROM THE CATWALK TO THE AISLE, SET YOUR L E F T T O R I G H T : Atelier Pronovias • Pronovias • Naeem Khan • Adam Zohar
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THE RUNWAY. SIGHTS ON THIS SEASON'S TOP STYLES //
FIND LOCAL SALONS weddingsinhouston.com
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MAIDS IN THE MEADOW Bridal party style is in full bloom this season. Mix garden-inspired prints with complementing solids, or play with floral patterns and silhouettes in fabrics that flutter and flow.
> AL ANA AND M ILA GOWNS IN O H ANA PRINT, FARRAH GOWN Jenny Yoo Available at Bella Bridesmaids Houston JENNY YOO PHOTOS: STEPHANIE WILLIAMS OF THIS MODERN ROMANCE
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> C O RRIN N E G O WN Jenny Yoo Available at Bella Bridesmaids Houston
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W E D D I N G AT T I R E |
> LAVENDER GOWN
Hayley Paige Occasions Available at Houston Bridal Gallery
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BOHO GL AM Part
FREE SPIRIT
part fashionable ingenue, and all gorgeous!
PHOTOS: SYLVIE GIL STYLING, SETS, BOUQUETS & DECOR: TODD EVENTS WARDROBE STYLING: SUMMAR SALAH MAKEUP: VCI ARTIST VICTORIA CALLAWAY ASSISTING: ANNA KALITA HAIR: DENNIS CLENDENNEN
| WEDDING STYLE
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W E D D I N G AT T I R E |
OPPOSITE PAGE: EVE OF MILADY GOWN: KRYSTAL NICOLE BRIDAL COUTURE EARRINGS: MIRON CROSBY THIS PAGE: RING: ZADOK JEWELERS WHITE COTTON, GRAY BRUNIA & WHITE-DYED UMBRELLA FERN BOUTONNIERE: TODD EVENTS
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THE RUSTIC TABLE... RE DEFINED.
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Soft, feminine, elegantly “ undone.”
GLAM GIRL Boho Glam blends effortless style with passionate attention to every exquisite detail.
OPPOSITE PAGE: MICHAL MEDINA GOWN: NOW & FOREVER BRIDAL BOUTIQUE EARRINGS: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON BOOTS: MIRON CROSBY THIS PAGE,TOP: EARRINGS, NECKLACE: ZADOK JEWELERS BOTTOM: BOOTS & EARRINGS: MIRON CROSBY GOLD-DIPPED FEATHER NECKLACE: BLAINE BOWEN
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04.08.17
MR.& MR S. //ALLISON & ERIC //
COUPLE: Allison Smith & Eric Aubel I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 175 I WEDDING COLORS: Neutrals & Pink VENUE: Hotel Galvez & Spa I REGISTRY: Beringâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s I WEDDING DRESS: Houston Bridal Gallery HONEYMOON: St. Thomas & Scrub Island
PHOTOGRAPHY: Akil Bennett Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Keely Thorne Events / Events In Bloom / Who Made The Cake / Katie & Co. Henri Daussi / Compozitionz / Monkey Booth Pics / 31 Films
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
chardonnay
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
cheesecake
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
with my husband and our chocolate lab, woodford WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his nurturing personality—he always knows how to calm me and make me feel safe
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
woodford reserve
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
bread pudding
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
going to a sporting event or watching college football
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
she’s the most caring person i know
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A boyfriend who plans a surprise proposal, a surprise dinner celebration with family and a surprise engagement party with all of your best friends, all in one night? Yeah, that’s husband material all right. Allison agrees, and on a beautiful blue-sky day in April, she said her vows to proposal-planner extraordinaire Eric at Galveston’s Hotel Galvez & Spa. From the lush pink floral arrangements, to the Champagne-glass escort-card display, to the late-night Whataburger feast, “The best part of the day was…the WHOLE day,” Allison says. “Being surrounded by our closest family and friends is something I will never forget, and am so grateful for. My mom passed away in December, and I am so glad that she got to be a part of my wedding and share so many special moments with me,” she adds. “I will always cherish April 8, 2017, as the happiest day of my life.”
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TRENDY 20/18
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< C H OC A F L OR A L PR IN T S N A KE SA N DA L
Christian Louboutin neimanmarcus.com
<
AL L I E FL O RAL PRI NT L EATH ER S AN D AL
Gucci bergdorfgoodman.com
W H AT â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S
HOT! PETA L PU SH E R S
> S A MRA BOW P UMP
Badgley Mischka nordstrom.com
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< M AV B E SA N DA L
Ted Baker nordstrom.com
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REAL WEDDINGS
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11.04.17
MR.& MR S. / / PA U L A & D A V I D / /
COUPLE: Paula Pritzen & David Law I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 135 I WEDDING COLORS: Black, White, Champagne & Tropical Colors PHOTOGRAPHY: Kelli Durham Photography I REGISTRY: Kuhl-Linscomb I HONEYMOON: South Africa & Seychelles CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Escondido Golf & Lake Club / Merveille Floral & Design / Marquee Event Rentals / Ilios Lighting / Olive & Belle Events / Sweet Treets Bakery Casa De Novia Bridal Couture / Rice Village Diamonds / Gulf Coast Entertainment / Paper Bird Films
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REAL WEDDINGS
HER FAVORITE SIP:
margarita
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
blackberry pie
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
traveling
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he constantly makes me laugh, supports me, and loves me unconditionallyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the two of us fit together perfectly, like two puzzle pieces
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
whiskey neat
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
chocolate cake
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
traveling
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
she accepts me and loves me, and she makes me want to be better for her every day
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She played goalie for the women’s soccer team, and his best friend was the team manager, when Paula and David met at the University of Missouri. And while they knew, early on, that they were meant for each other, forever, David’s secretly planned proposal still came as a surprise to Paula, on a weekend trip to Galveston. That’s when he serenaded her, while presenting her with an album he’d made containing dozens of mementos of their time together. A little more than one year later, the couple joined 135 friends and family members for an Austin lake-club wedding, with an al-fresco reception filled with lowkey elegance. The party perfectly captured Paula’s vision of “Champagne, doughnuts, whiskey, biscuits, roses, tropical blooms and fabulous attire,” where “everything was thoughtfully planned from start to finish,” but “nothing felt too rushed or structured.”
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 217
| WEDDING STYLE
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PHOTOGRAPHY + CINEMATOGRAPHY: AMA BY AISHA / VENUE: THE DUNLAVY / RENTALS, FLOWERS & DECOR: PLANTS N' PETALS / MAKEUP & HAIR: ETOILLY ARTISTRY / BAR & SMALL DESSERTS: THE KITCHEN AT THE DUNLAVY TABLETOP, CAKE & DESSERT STANDS & SERVERS: KUHL-LINSCOMB / STATIONERY: ISABELLA INVITATIONS CAKE: CAKES BY GINA / CEREMONY LOOK: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON RECEPTION LOOK: NOW & FOREVER BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
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ALL T HAT GLIT TERS
B EAU TY // O N T H E B AY O U //
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I NES DI SANTO "LIV" GOWN, MARIA ELENA HEADPIECE, EARRINGS: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON
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HAYLEY PAIGE "FRIDA" GOWN, HAUTE BRIDE HEADPIECE + JEWELRY: NOW & FOREVER BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
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// P R O F E S S I O NA L LY //
PRET TY Y O U ’ V E F O U N D Y O U R O N E - A N D - O N L Y. Y O U ’ V E S N A G G E D Y O U R P E R F E C T W E D D I N G V E N U E . Y O U ’ V E C H O S E N Y O U R M E N U , Y O U R M U S I C I A N S A N D Y O U R M A G N I F I C E N T W E D D I N G G O W N . Y O U ’ V E L E F T N O D E TA I L U N AT T E N D E D — O R H AV E Y O U ? D O N ’ T O V E R L O O K E X P E R T B E A U T Y S E R V I C E S F O R T H I S V E R Y S P E C I A L O C C A S I O N . H E R E ’ S E X A C T L Y W H Y !
PHOTO AMA BY AISHA : MAKEUP & HAIR ETOILLY ARTISTRY 22 4 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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IT ALL STARTS WITH YOUR SKIN For a professional makeup artist, the bride’s skin is the canvas. And like a painter’s canvas, that skin needs
to be prepped, primed and ready for a masterpiece of makeup artistry that will look as beautiful in real life as it does on film. Preparing the canvas of your complexion begins with taking care of your skin. Long before your wedding day, a professional makeup artist will be able to examine your skin, identify any problems that need addressing—excessive dryness or oiliness, sensitive areas, blackheads or blemishes—and recommend a skincare regimen, and products, that will take care of these concerns.
{ a professional makeup artist is trained to
CREATE A LOOK
{
that enhances, rather than obliterates, a bride’s natural features.
PHOTO: LARRY FAGALA
2
LOOKING NATURAL TAKES EXPERTISE No bride wants to greet her spouse-to-be at the altar looking altogether different than herself.
Similarly, no bride wants to gaze upon her wedding photos, years down the road, and wonder, “Why do I look so pale? Why am I so shiny? What was I thinking with that lip color/eyeshadow/blush?” A professional makeup artist is trained to create a look that enhances, rather than obliterates, a bride’s natural features, from her eyebrows, to her cheekbones, to the curve of her lips. The best makeup artists know that the wedding day camera requires more than everyday—even every evening—makeup, and they have the skills to create a look that balances camera-ready with groom-approved, flawlessly.
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3
PROFESSIONAL-QUALITY PRODUCTS DO MATTER
You
probably
have
your
favorite
cosmetic products—products you trust to come through for you every day, whether you’re at the office, on a date with your darling, or chilling with friends at a backyard barbecue. But just as your wedding is different from any other occasion in your life, your wedding makeup needs are different, too. Your daily go-to makeup products aren’t necessarily the ones that will work under the allday demands, in-the-spotlight moments and camera flashes of your wedding day. A professional makeup artist is well versed in the latest professional makeup products—those products used in magazine editorials, television shows, and, yes, the YouTube makeup tutorials you love to watch in the wee hours, to make models look,
:
B E A U T Y, H E A L T H + F I T N E S S |
untested products that looked nice in the package, or seemed “hot” from user reviews).
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NOT A HAIR OUT OF PLACE Come wind, rain, humidity or...dancing, your wedding hairstyle needs
to be ready to endure the elements, and the revelry, of your big day. A professional hairstylist will make sure that it does, and will work with you to create a hairstyle that fits your face, gown and personal style. If your regular stylist is great at color and blow-outs, but lacks experience with the kind of elaborate updo you desire for your wedding look, it is perfectly OK to seek expertise elsewhere for this very special
day. Look for a stylist who has a portfolio of bride images, talk to former clients to find out about their experience, and
well…how they look. Whether your artist uses name-
ask if the freshly styled ’do you glimpsed in that album held
brand products, signature products they have developed
up for the duration of her wedding day…and night. If you’re
and created themselves, or a combination of both—as is
eager to convert your ceremony hairstyle into an entirely
the case with many top Houston makeup pros—you will
different style for the dinner and dancing that follows, let
benefit from their product knowledge (and save a lot of
your stylist know—don’t assume that you can just pull out a
money that you might have squandered on a ton of
few pins and let your hair down, literally or figuratively.
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PRETTY MAIDS ALL IN A ROW When planning and budgeting for
professional wedding hair and makeup, don’t forget the girls who will be at your side when you are a bride. Springing for hairstyling, professional makeup and manipedis for your bridesmaids is one of the best investments you can make for your wedding day. Not only will it ensure that your gals look gorgeous in those wedding day photos, but it will also show your best friends and closest female family members how much you appreciate their love and devotion, by giving
them
the
gift
of
professional
pampering. To ensure that you and your maids are made up and styled in time for pre-wedding photos, allocate at least 45 minutes for each girl to get “done,” and give yourself up to two hours to allow your stylists to complete your look. And don’t forget to have your photographer on hand to capture at least some of the prep work— your candid “getting ready” photos will be among the images you’ll cherish most from your wedding day.
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PERFECTION REQUIRES A P R E V I E W There is no better way
to feel confident about your wedding look than by having a chance to look at it—and make adjustments if needed—in advance of the big day. Whether you preview your makeup and hair by having them done for bridal portraits in the weeks leading up to your wedding, or you visit your stylist for an in-salon consultation prior to your event and snap pix to review and discuss, a prewedding trial run is a must. Yes, you’ll pay for the opportunity to have your hair and makeup done once before go-time, and yes, you may find that you’re not 100-percent in love with the original look you may have envisioned for yourself. But better to have those mishaps before the big day, and have time to get the look you want. That investment, and that chance to tweak the details of your styling, will give you more peace of mind, and more gorgeousness to look forward to... which is worth every penny! W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 229
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06.03.17
MR.& M RS. / / M A G G I & M AT T / /
COUPLE: Maggi Massad & Matt Paradeis I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 225 I WEDDING COLORS: Coral, Mint, White & Metallics PHOTOGRAPHY: Adam Nyholt, Photographer I JEWELRY: Zadok Jewelers I CATERER: Café Natalie Catering BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids I LIGHTING: Bright Star Productions I HONEYMOON: Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand & Bali CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Hobby Center / Belle Of The Ball / Johanna Terry Events / Who Made The Cake / Brickhouse Bridal / Linda’s Couture / Hey Lovely Makeup / Hoffman Diamond Co. / Katie & Co. Divisi Strings / Empire 6 Band / Smilebooth / Cakewalk Films
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
ginger ale or ginger beer HER FAVORITE SWEET:
macarons or crème brûlée HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
planning or doing projects on our house, then going out to a great restaurant for dinner WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he is incredibly supportive and proud of me and my accomplishments—he’s always bragging about my artistic abilities to friends or showing them something i designed
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
coffee or beer
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
chocolate cake
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
a good run in the morning, then hanging out with friends at a patio bar for brunch WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
she’s the kindest, most generous person i have ever met, and i’m grateful every day for her continuous love and support
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Introduced by a mutual friend at an event for young professionals, Maggi says she and Matt “clicked instantly and bonded over a mutual love of baseball—and the common ground of having people mispronounce our last names constantly.” One Saturday, 27 months later, Maggi woke from a nap in the 1920’s bungalow they shared, to find 27 cards placed around the house, each explaining a different reason why Matt wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. “It was perfect,” Maggi says of the heartfelt proposal. Following a rehearsal dinner at the Houston Food Bank, the couple went with a “simple, clean, modern look,” with a palette of white, coral and mint, accented by metallic highlights, for their downtown Houston wedding. The bride’s favorite moment? “Eating dinner, just the two of us in a private room before going out to the reception—it was really special, and gave us the opportunity to just enjoy the moment…and the food!”
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// L O V E I N //
AFTER THE THRILL OF THE PROPOSAL, T H E R O M A N C E O F T H E E N G A G E M E N T, A N D T H E E X C I T E M E N T O F T H E W E D D I N G , C O M E S T H E M O S T I M P O R T A N T PART OF YOUR BOND WITH YOUR BELOVED: MARRIAGE. FOLLOW THESE STEPS BY LISA JOUBERT OF LOVE DANCE HOUSTON ... AND NEVER LOSE THAT SPARK! PHOTO REVERENT WEDDING FILMS
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// L O V E I N //
PHOTO: SYLVIE GIL
1
SEE, FEEL, PLAY ”Dancing is a great way to spark physical excitement and stimulation by
introducing new experiences in the relationship,” Joubert says. When couples are on the dance floor at Love Dance Houston, they “embrace each other as they move in sync.” Beyond the close contact of their bodies, “Eye contact is encouraged; we coach how to play and have fun on the dance floor.”
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dancing, especially with a partner. To put couples at
each other while embracing to music,” she advises.
ease, and create a sense of fun and discovery, Love
“We coach how to hold and how to invite, we teach
Dance Houston offers both personalized instruction and
language that edifies your mate, and we remind you
parties. “Most couples start their date-night journey with
which negative cues are not allowed.” With these skills
us once or twice a week with their coach, and attend our
in place, you can take your dancing shoes just about
group classes and parties to help the rhythm and
anywhere. “One of our couples danced on a rooftop in
patterns to progress faster. We offer a fun environment,
Paris to romantic music playing below. Other couples
to make it feel less like work and more like socializing.”
of ours have taken cruises with great music and
3
dancing on board, and some are the party starters on YOU CAN TAKE IT WITH YOU! The great thing
the dance floor at charity events, galas and parties.”
about dance, and the romance inspired by dance,
Plus, she adds, referencing the words of renowned
is that it’s transferable to all kinds of situations outside
relationship expert Esther Perel, “It takes two minutes a
the studio. “Dance is great for married couples as they
day of intimacy to change the energy in a relationship
rediscover each other’s sensual side again, and can
and protect against resentment.” Joubert notes: “That’s
connect in a new way,” Joubert says. So, once you’ve
about the length of an average song you can twirl to in
got a few moves down, “Get off that comfy chair at
the kitchen each morning before you leave each other
home, get dressed up for each other and smile at
for the day! “
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PHOTO: AMA BY AISHA HEADPIECE: NOW & FOREVER BRIDAL BOUTIQUE MAKEUP & HAIR: ETOILLY ARTISTRY
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r i a H
& MAKEUP
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PHOTO: TAYLOR GOLDEN MAKEUP & HAIR: 2BPURE LAUREN FALLS MAKEUP & HAIR
READY FOR YOUR CLOSEUP Updo, sideswept, long and loose, or braid: Pick a hairstyle that complements your gownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neckline, and complete your look with makeup that plays up your best features, both in photos and IRL!
PHOTO: GRANT FOTO MAKEUP & HAIR: KISS AND MAKEUP HOUSTON
PHOTO: AMA BY AISHA // MARIA ELENA HEADPIECE: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON MAKEUP & HAIR: ETOILLY ARTISTRY
PHOTO: KELLY HORNBERGER HEADPIECE: HOUSTON BRIDAL GALLERY MAKEUP & HAIR: NYOKA GREGORY BEAUTY
PHOTO: SYLVIE GIL // HEADPIECE: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON MAKEUP: VICTORIA CALLAWAY HAIR: DENNIS CLENDENNEN
PHOTO: SYLVIE GIL // HEADPIECE: JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON MAKEUP: VICTORIA CALLAWAY HAIR: DENNIS CLENDENNEN
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 239
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03.10.18
MR.& MR S. //MARIA & MOHAMMED //
COUPLE: Maria Martinez & Mohammed Chowdhury I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 150 I WEDDING COLORS: Red, Orange, Pink, Green, Blush & Gold VENUE: Las Velas I CATERER: Cordúa Catering I DJ, PHOTO BOOTH & LIGHTING: LG Event Entertainment & Production I HONEYMOON: Mexico
PHOTOGRAPHY: Tomas Ramos Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Prashe Decor / Who Made The Cake / Roop Sari / Harry Winston Fito Olivares / Divisi Strings / J&D Entertainment / Incredible Events
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
mexican coke
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
gajar ka halwa (indian carrot pudding) HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
backyard bbq with family
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he is a strong, genuine man with a big heart
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
michelada
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
caramel flan
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
at the beach house with family, watching the sunset
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
the unconditional love she has for me
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Though Maria wasn’t interested in Mohammed at first when she met him at a mutual friend’s birthday, the charismatic entrepreneur’s fluent Spanish soon won her over. “I wanted someone who spoke Spanish, to be able to communicate with my parents,” Maria says. “The more we talked, the more we realized how much we had in common.” What they did not have in common was background—he is of Bangladeshi heritage, she is of Mexican descent. So, what more perfect way to bring their backgrounds together, than with a great, big Bangladeshi-Mexican-Texan wedding,
featuring
stilt-walkers,
mariachis,
magicians,
sparklers,
dhol-players, choreographed
dancers, a confetti cannon explosion, and, naturally, a real-live camel and monkeys? The spectacular celebration, at versatile Houston venue Las Velas, was, the bride says, “such a memorable night for all of us.”
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2 1
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/ WGIL EDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM PHOTO:00 SYLVIE FLOWERS, DECOR & STYLING: TODD EVENTS
246 F L O W E R S , D E C O R & R E N TA L S
280 CAKES & CULINARY
306 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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PERSONALIZED TO
Perfection Y O U R W E D D I N G I S N O T J U S T A R I T U A L O F C O M M I T M E N T.
I T I S N OT J U S T A C E L E B R AT I O N O F LOV E . I T I S A S TAT E M E N T YO U
M A K E TO T H O S E C LO S E S T TO YO U , E X P R E S S I N G G R AT I T U D E , A P P R E C I AT I O N â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A N D P RO F O U N D P E R S O N A L S T Y L E . W R I T E R N ATA S H A GA R B E R 24 6 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
PHOTO: GENEVIEVE DE MANIO PHOTOGRAPHY // FLOWERS, DECOR & RENTALS: TODD EVENTS
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S E N T I M E N TA L P E TA L S
For most
couples, flowers are the single biggest
decor element—and, for many, the single biggest budget line-item—in their wedding design scheme. But beyond the beauty of nature’s floral bounty, flowers can also add sentimental symbolism and profound meaning to your wedding. Did your beloved bring you stargazer lilies when he came to pick you up for your first date? Include these dazzling and divine-smelling flowers in your ceremony floral. Did he propose in a rose garden at peak blooming season? Bring roses in colors you recall from that moment into your bridal bouquet. Did your late grandmother (or his) tend a garden filled with ranunculus, or dahlias, or playful Gerbera daisies? Honor her memory with centerpieces that include the flower or flowers she loved so well. Another way to pay homage to departed loved ones on the occasion of your wedding: Place a single rose or small bouquet, perhaps of their favorite flowers, on a seat at your ceremony, as a physical reminder of the person you are missing.
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COLOR CODE Your wedding palette is perhaps the most personal of all
design features, since it truly expresses who you are, what you like, where you’ve been, and the feeling you wish your guests to experience at your wedding. If you are most at home in nature, bring the feeling of the outdoors into your wedding, with earthy neutrals, soothing greens, celestial blues and gentle grays, along with crystalclear ghost chairs, soft altar swagging and rough-hewn farm tables. Captivated by
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island vibes or bright, bold, beachy tones? Create a palette filled with vibrant shades of orange, deep pinks and dazzling yellows, mellowed out by coral, shell-pink and frothy green. For the traditional bride with a Patrician, preppy streak, the mix of navy and white with accents of gold—perhaps amped up by bold stripes or bow accents brought in with table linens, runners or chair ties—is a scheme that’s both super fresh and utterly classic. Of course, if romance and ethereal elegance have always been what you’ve envisioned for your big day, a timeless palette of white, ivory and blush—accented by the shimmer of mercury-glass votive holders, mirrored tabletops or rose-gold chargers and flatware—is a dreamy and delicate choice.
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INITIAL IMPRESSION
Branding your
wedding with a custom monogram—or for
social junkies, a custom hashtag—is a superfun way to put your personal mark on your big day. Have your invitation designer create a cool logo out of your initials or shared last name, then work your way forward from your initial save-the-dates and invitations by including your custom logo on your dance floor, ceremony backdrop, aisle runner, wall gobos, table numbers, menu cards and/or favor packaging. By doing this, you’ll have a coherent and consistent feature that draws together all of the elements of your wedding design, before, during and even after your wedding (on thankyou notes, for example).
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MEANINGFUL DETAILS An experienced wedding coordinator, designer and florist
can suggest, and provide, all kinds of small, but certainly not insignificant, decor, drink, food and signage items to make your wedding a one-of-a-kind event experience. Some of our favorite subtle personal touches include place cards and place-card holders that pay homage PHOTO: GENEVIEVE DE MANIO PHOTOGRAPHY EVENT STYLING: TODD EVENTS
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to your courtship and love story (wine corks; names of cities you’ve traveled to together or
| FINER DETAILS
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FLOWERS, DECOR + RENTALS |
street names where you’ve lived; or shells, airplanes or sailboats to signify favorite vacations or travel). For a reception bar with personality, work with your caterer to concoct a signature cocktail or two with corresponding signage that allows guests to sip and savor your favorite spirits; signature drinks can also echo your color palette (a “Blushing Bride” cocktail, for example, that features fine bubbly in a feminine shade of pink). Small floral arrangements on your reception bars, lounge tables, even restroom countertops, can further carry through your color palette and design scheme, while hand-painted or calligraphy signs will both PHOTO: GENEVIEVE DE MANIO PHOTOGRAPHY EVENT STYLING: TODD EVENTS
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direct your guests and offer a glimpse of your favorite love quotes, music lyrics or milestone memories.
| FINER DETAILS
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FLOWERS, DECOR + RENTALS |
P H O T O : E R I F O R TAY L O R G O L D E N / / F L O W E R S : D R E A M B O U Q U E T / / R E N TA L S : E B I N C . E V E N T R E N TA L S & D E S I G N S T Y L I N G : A D AY T O R E M E M B E R / / TA B L E T O P : B E R I N G â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S
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02.02.18
MR.& M RS. / / NATA L I E & S H AW N / /
COUPLE: Natalie Sorrell & Shawn Pheifer I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 75 I WEDDING COLORS: Gray, White & Greenery VENUE: Eagle Dancer Ranch I FLOWERS: Blooms Design Studio
PHOTOGRAPHY: Snap Chic Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Ruth Stone Catering / Cru Vintage Rentals / Celebrations Bridal / Photo Buzz Studio / Sound Situations
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
lemonade
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
chocolate cake
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
doing live event painting at weddings
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his courageousness
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
lemonade
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
apple pie
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
hunting
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her nurturing nature
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After meeting on Facebook, “We chatted for about two months before we had our first in-person date,” Natalie says. But oh, what a date it was: “Shawn took me out for pizza and go-kart riding for my birthday. From that moment on we were inseparable!” And the proposal? One for the record books: “We were traveling through France and Switzerland, making our way to Italy. We spent the most romantic night together on the train, and the next morning, while we were going through the Swiss Alps, he proposed to me during breakfast in our private train cabin. He even designed my wedding ring with two bridges from our trip—one side has the Tower Bridge from London, the other side has the Rialto Bridge from Venice.” Highlights of their wedding celebration, at lovely Eagle Dancer Ranch, included a ceremony arbor hand-painted by the bride, an artist, and taxidermies of animals harvested by the groom, an avid hunter. Our favorite personal touch: the bride’s Stella York wedding dress, which Natalie hand-beaded herself with over 10,000 beads, Swarovski crystals and glass pearls.
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09.23.17
MR.& M RS. //AUBREY & CHASE //
COUPLE: Aubrey Spigener & Chase Hoffman I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 150 I WEDDING COLORS: Mint, Teal & Blush PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY: Dream Photo & Video I HONEYMOON: St. Lucia
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Silver Sycamore / Flower Cottage Of Deer Park / House Of Hough / Next Event Services / Whittington Bridal / Jane’s Bridal & Formal / Thomason’s Fine Jewelry
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
mojito
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
cupcakes
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
outside by the water or doing something active WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his uncanny way of making me laugh or calm down when i am stressed
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
craft beer
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
ice cream
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
being active outside or working out
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
coming home to her—she always takes care of me, especially when i’ve had a rough day
It was decidedly not a “love at first sight” story for Aubrey and Chase. When the bride met her future groom on the first day of training at her parents’ new coffee shop—he’d been hired as staff—she thought, “Wow, I definitely don’t like this guy. He’s rude.” But, she admits, “Little did I know, he’s just quiet and shy.” In a matter of months, the two had become friends, which is when Chase decided to ask Aubrey’s dad for permission to take her out on a date. However, it wasn’t until a year later that the two truly fell in love. Their fall wedding, with its indoor ceremony and outdoor reception, mixed elements of Southern luxury with rustic Western charm, and featured a combination of long banquet tables lined with arrangements of blush-hued and white blooms, and round tables set with delicate blush-and-white centerpieces. “The wedding was so beautiful,” Aubrey recounts. “Having exactly what I had pictured in my mind come together, and having all of my favorite people in one place watching me marry the man of my dreams, was so amazing.”
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10.14.17
MR.& MR S. / / C A N D I C E & M AT T H E W / /
COUPLE: Candice Griffith & Matthew Evans I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 150 I WEDDING COLORS: Cream, Burgundy & Gold VENUE: Chateau Cocomar I BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Houston Bridal Gallery I ENTERTAINMENT: Royal Dukes Band REHEARSAL DINNER: Petroleum Club Of Houston I HONEYMOON: Bora Bora PHOTOGRAPHY: M. Wang Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: The Bloom Room / New Seasons Catering / Dolce Designs Brickhouse Bridal / Shaftel Diamonds / Cakewalk Films
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
la griglia’s berry mojito HER FAVORITE SWEET:
brownies
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
quality time at our ranch in the country
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he’s the kindest person i know
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
dirty martini with blue-cheese olives HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
chocolate-covered-cherry dairy queen blizzard HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
at texas world speedway
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
she’s adventurous and loves to travel
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With his “bowtie and preppy look,” Matthew “had me at ‘Hello,’” at the engagement party where the two first met, Candice says. She recounts in detail his surprise August proposal, at sunset near the sand dunes at her parents’ beach house: “I was so taken off guard by the proposal (he had told me in June it wouldn't be for at least a year because he had to save for a ring), that I was wearing the most ridiculous outfit: camo hat, romper, sandals, no makeup, and, worst of all, NO nail polish!” For the couple’s “extremely classic and traditional” Chateau Cocomar wedding, Candice was fully polished, and beautifully styled in a lace Alvina Valenta gown and Badgley Mischka peep-toe pumps. Noting that, “The venue is absolutely gorgeous,” Candice adds, “There were tons of flowers and decor everywhere you looked, the cakes were absolutely beautiful, the band was amazing, and everybody danced from the first song until the venue closed us down.”
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A TEXA S RANCH
H
ROMANCE ” “ WHEN YOU LOOK AT ME WITH THOSE STARS IN YOUR EYES, I COULD WALTZ ACROSS TEXAS WITH YOU... - Ernest Tubbs
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T E XA S RANCH
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T EXA S RANCH
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VENUE + LOUNGE SETUP: BRISCOE MANOR / CONCEPT, DESIGN, PLANNING, STATIONERY + CALLIGRAPHY: A DAY TO REMEMBER PHOTOGRAPHY: ERI FOR TAYLOR GOLDEN / FLOWERS: DREAM BOUQUET / LINENS, CUSHIONS + TABLE RENTALS: EB INC. EVENT RENTALS & DESIGN / TABLETOP DISPLAYS: BERINGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S / MAKEUP & HAIR: NYOKA GREGORY BEAUTY / ESSENSE OF AUSTRALIA CEREMONY DRESSS, ACCESSORIES: HOUSTON BRIDAL GALLERY / MORILEE RECEPTION DRESS, ACCESSORIES: PARVANI VIDA BRIDAL & FORMAL / WEDDING CAKE + DESSERTS: EDIBLE DESIGNS / CINEMATOGRAPHY: REVERENT WEDDING FILMS / FIREWORKS: LARRY NAMEC, LGN ENTERPRISES INC.
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12.02.17
MR.& MR S. / / R A C H E L & J O NAT H A N / /
COUPLE: Rachel Wylie & Jonathan Schrock I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 200 I WEDDING COLORS: Ivory, Gold & Champagne PHOTOGRAPHY: Taylor Golden Photography I CATERER: Cordúa Catering I CAKE: Cakes By Gina LIGHTING: Bright Star Productions I HONEYMOON: Dominican Republic
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Hobby Center / A&E Events / College Park Flowers / Ivory Bridal Atelier / Laura’s Couture & Alterations / Shannon Fine Jewelry / J. Kelly Productions
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
coke zero
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
ice cream
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
watching texas longhorns football
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he provides me with unconditional love and support, and he has a positive outlook on everything
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
wine
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
cannoli
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
watching texas longhorns football
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
how caring and sincere she is—knowing we can talk about anything anytime strengthens our relationship
A sweet Match.com success story, Rachel and Jonathan communicated by phone for a few weeks before taking the plunge on an in-person date in The Heights. From there, it wasn’t long until the pair was on their way to “I do.” Their 200-guest wedding centered on food and, of course, wine— Jonathan is the operations manager for his family’s business, Plantersville’s Bernhardt Winery. Surrounded by views of downtown Houston, the couple and their guests dined on caprese salad, steak and Brussels sprouts, followed by a fivetier cake from Cakes By Gina, and cannolis (the groom’s fave). When asked to choose a favorite moment, bride Rachel chose: “the whole night itself...finally seeing our vision come to life and celebrating our marriage with our friends and family!” W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 275
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BLO OM PHOTO: ADAM NYHOLT, PHOTOGRAPHER
BOUQUET: TODD EVENTS
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1. BOUQUET: GLENWOOD WEBER DESIGN PHOTO: ALEFIYA AKBARALLY
2. BOUQUET: SWIFT+COMPANY PHOTO: J. COGLIANDRO PHOTOGRAPHY
3. BOUQUET: BLOOMS DESIGN STUDIO
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PHOTO: SNAP CHIC PHOTOGRAPHY
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BOUQUET: HAUTE FLOWERS & EVENTS PHOTO: RACHEL DRISKELL PHOTOGRAPHY
BOUQUET: DREAM BOUQUET PHOTO: AMA BY AISHA
BOUQUET: RIVER OAKS PLANT HOUSE
BOUQUET: RAOFACTOR
PHOTO: ADAM NYHOLT, PHOTOGRAPHER
PHOTO: DAVID LOI STUDIOS
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{
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LOVE IN BLOOM Both glorious accessory and sentimental symbol, the bouquet you hold on your wedding day should express your style, and your joy, without stealing the spotlight or weighing you down.
}
BOUQUET: PLANTS Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; PETALS PHOTO: PHARRIS PHOTOGAPHY
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*Greeking ot go here and here and greekignot og here and here #alateniteparty
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FUN DON’T JUST NOURISH YOUR WEDDING GUESTS—DELIGHT THEIR SENSES, EXCITE THEIR TASTE BUDS, AND ENGAGE THEM IN A TRUE DINING EXPERIENCE, COMPLETE WITH INTRIGUING SIGHTS, SMELLS…AND MAYBE A HANDS-ON TASK OR TWO.
PHOTO CIVIC PHOTOS : CATERING CORDÚA CATERING
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1. TACO TIME Many of your guests likely have traveled a long
is de rigueur, you’ll also want to indulge your guests with
way to take part in your nuptial celebration. Whether they’ve
decadent Texas sweets. Our favorites? Mini tres leches
come from Dubai or Dallas, College Station or Karachi, Moscow
cakes, macarons, pecan pie and warm Tiff’s Treats cookies.
or Magnolia, classic Texas specialties feature something for everyone, and are among the best-loved menu items across the globe. And
everyone’s
3. HOME COOKING While they may be whipped up by your
favorite
expertly
trained
caterer
Texas treat? Why that’d be
rather than your Great Aunt
tacos, of course! Whether
Betty,
tray-passed
have a place at just about
during
cocktail
hour, or served at make-yourown stations stocked with fresh salsas, cilantro, guacamole
and
other
toppings,
these Mexico-by-way-of-Texas bites
are
wedding options
beloved
among
guests.
Yummy
include
fresh
fish,
shrimp, carnitas and grilled chicken, in crunchy shells or atop soft corn tortillas. Tying where modate
the that
knot can
someaccom-
food
trucks?
Hire a local food truck (Armandos taco truck is an excellent choice) and fete your guests with madeto-order
tacos
featuring
any
”
CHILDHOOD FAVORITES have a place at just about any wedding celebration where family gathers for fun.
authentic ingredients. 2. TEXAS TASTE Also wildly popular at Houston weddings
”
are dishes that deliver on that most distinctive of South Texas flavors: Tex Mex and Southern comfort foods.
childhood wedding
favorites
celebration
where family gathers for fun. Pay homage to bygone days with a macaroni-andcheese
station
featuring
macaroni pasta accompanied by a variety of cheeses and gourmet toppings, such as
bacon,
onion,
fried
caramelized chicken
and
crab. And don’t for a minute think mashed-potato stations are a thing of the past. While the warm, hearty deliciousness of mashed potatoes may take you back to holiday feasts or family suppers you enjoyed as a child, today’s stations are likely to feature heirloom potato varieties, and sweet potatoes, along with artisanal cheeses, homemade
gravy,
fresh-
chopped scallions, and locally sourced nuts. Perfect for small plates or tray passing are miniature grilled-
Pique your guests’ culinary interest with a pre-dinner mini-plates
cheese sandwiches (though instead of Kraft singles, have them
spread that includes miniature enchiladas, grilled shrimp bites,
done with Gruyére, manchego or gouda, along with pesto or
ceviche shooters, tortilla-soup shooters and, perhaps, small serv-
garlic aioli), served with homemade tomato-soup shooters. Yum!
ings of a light and colorful grilled-corn-and-pepper salad topped with crunchy pepitas.
Sliders make excellent late-night, booze-soaking treats. Go for bison or classic ground chuck, on diminutive home-
For heartier dinner fare, pay homage to Houston’s Southern
made buns, or get your Texas on, big time, with fried chicken
traditions, with shrimp-and-cheese grits, traditional barbecue, corn-
sliders served on crunchy mini waffles. Of course, if you’re
and-crawfish fritters, chicken-fried steak, or plated presentations of
serving burgers, you should include fries—which you can
wild game choices such as venison, bison, quail or elk.
elevate from fast food to fine food with truffle salt and aged
And don’t forget dessert! While a traditional wedding cake
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Parmesan cheese.
1. TACO TIME Many of your guests likely have traveled a long way to take part in your nuptial celebration. Whether they’ve come from Dubai or Dallas, College Station or Karachi, Moscow or Magnolia, classic Texas specialties feature something for everyone, and are among the bestloved menu items across the globe. And everyone’s favorite Texas treat? Why that’d be tacos, of course! Whether tray-passed during cocktail hour, or served at make-your-own stations stocked with fresh salsas, cilantro, guacamole and other toppings, these Mexico-by-way-of-Texas bites are beloved among wedding guests. Yummy options include fresh fish, shrimp, carnitas and grilled chicken, in crunchy shells or atop soft corn tortillas. For a late-night surprise your danceweary guests will devour, unveil a breakfasttaco station, where guests can fill warm corn or flour tortillas with their choice of scrambled eggs, potatoes, chorizo, cheese and fresh pico de gallo or tangy tomatillo salsa.
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4. HIP SIPS Whether it’s high-quality steaks, traditional barbecue or regional favorites from around the state, taking those dishes and putting a contemporary spin on them is what raises the bar for wedding fare. And don’t forget the libations. Every wedding needs a specialty cocktail, especially if the beverage selection is limited to beer and wine. Adding one good, icy vodka cocktail is a great idea, even with more modest budgets. 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 less 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! And nothing puts your personal mark on your celebration of a lifetime like his-andhers 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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/ / EPICUREAN / /
D E LIG H T S CORDÚA CATERING
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3 PHOTOS: CORDÚA CATERING
C O R D Ú A C AT E R I N G 1. Tilapia-and-shrimp ceviche with jalapeño, red onion and cilantro 2. Jumbo-lump-crab salad with roma tomato and jalapeño vinaigrette 3. Fried-oyster-and-beef-tenderloin crostini with truffle-horseradish cream
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ARMANDOS CATERS LE ZU PHOTOGRAPHY
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3
LE ZU PHOTOGRAPHY
LE ZU PHOTOGRAPHY
2
1
TAYLOR GOLDEN
3
JACKSON & COMPANY SHAWN CHIPPENDALE
TAYLOR GOLDEN
ARMANDOS CATERS 1. Beet salad with oranges, pomegranate and balsamic reduction 2. Vanilla-bean cheesecake with graham-cracker crust and chocolate-caramel sauce 3. Pan-seared Chilean sea bass served over sautéed spinach with pineapple salsa JACKSON & COMPANY 1. Mascarpone, fig and prosciutto croustade 2. Savory beef taco “Pop Tarts” 3. Dry-pot Sichuan-style red snapper 28 8 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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CAFE‘ NATALIE CATERING
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PHOTOS: CAFÉ NATALIE
C A F É N ATA L I E C AT E R I N G 1. Mediterranean family-style spread, including hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and marinated feta with sun-dried tomatoes 2. Inside-out fried deviled egg 3. Tuna on potato latke with crème fraîche 4. Garlic-and-chili-butter oysters
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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
on
a
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
1
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
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MEET
SUSIE
EDWARDS,
’
OWNER
OF
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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Q &A CAKE DESIGN REDEFINED
//
DE LA CREME CREATIVE STUDIO
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF DE LA CREME CREATIVE STUDIO
//
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THE MASTERFUL MINIMALISM OF DE LA CREME CREATIVE STUDIO’S HEIDI HOLMON
WEDDINGS IN HOUSTON: What inspired you to leave a graphic-design career for the world of wedding cakes? HEIDI HOLMON: I stumbled on cake decorating quite accidentally. Honestly, it was just another creative outlet for me. After 15 years working in the graphic-design industry, I moved quickly from self-taught, hobby baker to a professional level, mostly because I had fun, did a lot of experimenting, and found a style uniquely my own. As my work became recognized as a premium brand, my cake-making hobby flourished into a growing business. WIH: How does your arts background influence your cake design? HH: I rely heavily on my artistic background when
She may be a minimalist by nature, but that doesn’t mean St. Louis-based graphic-artist-turned baker Heidi Holmon isn’t a master of the major-statement wedding cake.
designing cakes, especially when it comes to composition, color theory, and introducing hand-painted elements into a cake. My minimalistic nature influences most of my color theory, and I am a huge fan
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of using a limited color palette. A lot of my cakes use a maximum of three colors. Less is always more when it comes to color—it helps the structure and details come to life. WIH: What’s the most difficult part of creating one of your signature designs? HH: The planning and patience that go into preparing mathematically precise elements can be time consuming in the preparation stage, but pulling off a new design and making it appear effortless is well worth all the hard work. For example, both the height of the hexagonal cake and the angle of each leaf on our 3D Magnolia Leaf cake had to be carefully planned well in advance. Without patience, I couldn’t pull off half of the cakes that I create. WIH: What are the top trends you’re seeing in cake requests for 2018 and 2019 weddings? HH: This year, my couples are asking for big impact! Tall cakes that bring a serious “wow” factor appear to be back on top of the must-have list. It’s all about making a grand statement for my couples in the upcoming season, either through height or through customized uniqueness, and I’m more than happy to oblige. Not only do we create stunning works of art in cake form, but more often than not lately, we also consult with our clients on the cake-table linen, backdrop draping and spotlighting. Anything that adds to the overall appearance of decadence seems to definitely be on trend this season.
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/ / H AV E Y O U R / /
CAK E
...and eat it too.
CAKES: WINK BY ERICA
PHOTO: DIVYA PANDE PHOTOGRAPHY
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CAKE: SUSIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CAKES & CONFECTIONS PHOTO:ADAM NYHOLT
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CAKE: DESSERT GALLERY BAKERY & CAFE PHOTO: JULIE SOEFER
CAKE: EDIBLE DESIGNS
PHOTO: ERI FOR TAYLOR GOLDEN
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UNIQUE C AKES Flowers, feathers or deco designs, our Houston bakers will create a custom cake just for you!
CAKE: CAKES BY GINA
PHOTO: PHARRIS PHOTOGRAPHY
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MR.& MR S. //SAMANTHA & KYLE //
COUPLE: Samantha Lubel & Kyle Golding I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 230 I WEDDING COLORS: Ivory, Cream & White PHOTOGRAPHY: Adam Nyholt, Photographer I CAKE: Susie’s Cakes & Confections I JEWELRY: Zadok Jewelers I BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids VENUE: The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa I FLOWERS, DECOR & RENTALS: Plants N’ Petals I REHEARSAL DINNER: The Dunlavy REGISTRY: Bering’s I HONEYMOON: Greece
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Invitations By Joan / Occasion Maps By Susie / Mark Anthony Florist / Brickhouse Bridal / Ledeen Diamond Co.
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
chick-fil-a sweet tea
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
snow berry ice cream from the chocolate bar HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
brunch and netflix
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he is incredibly patient with me
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
jack and coke
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
beignets
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
going to the dog park
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
she is caring
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After more than a decade together, Kyle’s proposal to Samantha still knocked her off her feet: “On July 29, at 1,120 miles away from Houston, and 5,280 feet up in the clouds, my best friend of 12 years got down on one knee and asked me to marry him!” as she tells it. Not only that, but, “He caught me completely off guard—again—by managing to fly in my entire family along with his parents to celebrate our engagement with us.” For the couple’s fall wedding, Plants N’ Petals created a “romantic garden” inside The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa, where 230 guests dined, sipped and danced the night away. It’s also where Samantha had her own surprise for Kyle: “I arranged for our string quartet to play his favorite Taylor Swift song, ‘Enchanted,’ as I walked down the aisle. His reaction—smile and tears—was priceless!”
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PHOTO: SYLVIE GIL
/ / I N V I TAT I O N //
TI M E LI NE SETTING THE TONE AND STYLE OF YOUR NUPTIALS STARTS WITH YOUR WEDDING STATIONERY— AFTER ALL, THESE PAPER PARCELS ARE THE FIRST WEDDING-RELATED ITEMS YOUR GUESTS WILL EVER SEE. FIND OUT WHAT STATIONERY ITEMS YOU’LL NEED, WHEN TO ORDER, AND WHEN TO SEND, WITH THIS SUPER-HANDY SCHEDULING GUIDE.
INVITATION ISABELLA INVITATIONS
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•Order engagement announcements •Order save-the-dates (especially if you’re planning a destination celebration!)
INVITATIONS, REGISTRY + FAVORS |
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PREPARE TO TEL L TH E W O R LD •Order engagement-party invitations
:
MONTHS OUT
4-6
MONTHS OUT
OR D E R YOU R INV IT ES •Order wedding invitations •Order rehearsal-dinner invitations •Order stationery with your couple’s monogram
•Make sure you have everyone’s address
TOP TIP: Doing an engagement shoot? Use a fave photo from
TOP TIP: The rehearsal-dinner invitation should always be sent
it for your save-the-date, especially if it shows you and your boo
separately from your wedding invitation; never include it in the
participating in an activity you love to do together, or snuggled up
wedding invitation.
together with your beloved fur baby.
A NNOUNC E YO U R BIG NE WS
8-11
•Send engagement announcements •Send engagement-party invitation… and host a fabulous bash to celebrate your big news
MONTHS OUT
6
SE N D T H E M O U T •Send your wedding
WEEKS OUT
invitations •Order programs, menu cards and table cards
•Send save-the-dates
TOP TIP: While your wedding invitations are likely to be on the more
TOP TIP: When mailing invitations, take them inside the post office,
formal side, it’s perfectly OK to have fun with your engagement an-
and ask the person helping you to hand-cancel your stamps; this
nouncements—with a goofy couple-selfie (showing your ring, of course),
process uses a special ink stamp to mark your envelopes rather than
a pic of you holding an “I Said Yes” mug, or a heart formed with your
the usual machine-operated sorting system (which can leave thick lines
overlapping fingerprints…aww.
on the envelope, and may even damage it).
S TA RT S H O P P ING •Start shopping for wedding invitations •Order bridal-shower invitations (this one’s actually for your shower hostess, but you’ll need to provide the guest list)
6-8
MONTHS OUT
up to
3
MONTHS AFTER
SAY T H A N K YO U •Order personalized thank-you cards •Send heartfelt thank-you notes
•Send thank-you cards for bridal-shower gifts 2-3 weeks after shower
TOP TIP: While you or your shower host may be tempted to have
TOP TIP: If the gift you’re giving thanks for is from your
shower guests pre-address thank-you-card envelopes upon arrival,
registry, make sure to mention it and how much you love it in
for convenience, please don’t; proper etiquette and graciousness
your thank-you message; if it’s a monetary gift, don’t mention
trumps convenience, in this case, especially since we’re talking about
the specific amount, but do hint at how you’ll use it to bring joy
your closest friends and family.
to your newlywed life!
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WHAT’S C A L L A L ILY S E RV IN G SET
Michael Aram bloomingdales.com
HOT!
F O R T H E PA R T Y H O S T
< WIN E C A R A F E
Georg Jensen barneys.com
VODK A SET & PADDLE
LSA International berings.com
<TH E J U B IL EE C OL L EC TION
Natalie Annette natalieannette.com
< AEGEAN GOLD CHARGER
L’Objet berings.com
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/ / YOU’RE / /
I NVI T E D CRANE & CO. WEDDINGS | AVAILABLE AT BERING’S
| FINER DETAILS
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INVITATIONS, REGISTRY + FAVORS |
DESIGNED WITH AMORE
MEMORY LANE PAPERIE 310 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
WIDE EYES PAPER CO. I PHOTO: SWISS DOT PHOTOGRAPHY
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DESIGNED WITH AMORE
ISABELLA INVITATIONS I PHOTO : LANCE NICOLI STYLING: BREATHTAKING EVENTS
{ {
it’s all about STYLE. choose a STATIONER who can design a wedding suite that tells your STORY. WILLIAM ARTHUR STUDIO I AVAILABLE AT BERING’S
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11.25.17
MR.& MR. //NELSON & JAMES //
COUPLE: Nelson Royalty & James Phillips I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 145 I WEDDING COLORS: Navy & Brass VENUE: Hughes Manor I LINENS & TABLEWARE: EB Inc. Event Rentals & Design; Swift + Company CATERER: Cordúa Catering I INVITATIONS & REGISTRY: Bering’s PHOTOGRAPHY: Pixel Studio Productions CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: En Vogue Events / Who Made The Cake / The Black Tux / DJU Productions
GTX Productions / Darryl & Co. / Texas Exotic Car Rental 312 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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NELSON’S FAVORITE SIP:
vodka martini
NELSON’S FAVORITE SWEET:
italian cream cake
NELSON’S FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
cooking all day while sipping rosé champagne WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT JAMES:
he loves beautiful things and is always making our life better
JAMES’S FAVORITE SIP:
manhattan
JAMES’S FAVORITE SWEET:
carrot cake
JAMES’S FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
at our family’s home on lake travis
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT NELSON:
he knows everything about me and loves me anyway
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“James’s two favorite things are Lake Travis and the Fourth of July,” Nelson explains, “which made for the perfect theme and spot to pop the question.” He says that everyone except James was in on the surprise, “including our dog Izzy, who was instructed to follow the jars of fireflies down to the dock,” where Nelson waited to ask his beloved James to marry him. Their beautiful November wedding at Hughes Manor was “modern and elegant, but also comfortable,” Nelson notes, pointing out the chic gray and navy linens, mercury-glass votives and arching bundles of slender calla lilies that filled the celebration space. The best part? “Before being walked down the aisle by our parents, we decided to be blindfolded and led to adjacent areas behind where our guests were seated. Our moms removed our blindfolds, giving us the first look we wanted to experience. What we didn’t realize was that our guests would be able to see the entire thing!” Also: “Our bulldogs Izzy and Piper strutted down the aisle in pink tutus and stole the show the entire way!”
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1 2
3
WHAT’S 4
HOT!
FOR THE GARDEN GURU
1. ROPE HAMMOCK Pawley’s Island berings.com 2. WIND CHIMES Music Of The Spheres berings.com 3. FLEUR DE LIS HOSE POT Frontgate frontgate.com 4. INTERVALE ESSENTIAL GARDEN TOOL SET Gardener’s Supply Co. gardeners.com
316 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
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/ / 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 YOU’LL 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!
PHOTO AMA BY AISHA : TABLETOP KUHL - LINSCOMB : FLORAL & DECOR PLANTS N’ PETALS : LOCATION THE DUNLAVY
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1
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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S
HOT! F O R T H E T RAV E L E R
6
4
5
1. INSTAX MINI 90 Fujifilm amazon.com 2. ANDREW WAYFARER SUNGLASSES Tom Ford solsticesunglasses.com 3. CARRY-ON COCKTAIL KIT W&P Design bespokepost.com 4. SAFARI 30 EXTRA-DEEP SUITCASE Globetrotter globe-trotter.com 5. BELLE DE NUIT SILK EYE MASQUE Branche berings.com 6. BEATS STUDIO3 WIRELESS HEADPHONES Beats By Dre beatsbydre.com
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 319
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/ / B E D R O O M / B AT H R O O M / /
//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
or ottoman
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,
Bathroom
going on, everyone tends to gather in the
focus your registry scanner on high-quality
Plush cotton towels
kitchen. So it’s nice to have a well-stocked,
bedroom and bathroom staples (with,
Fluffy bath mat
good-looking one.
perhaps, a techie treat just for fun!), and
Soap or lotion dispenser
make private 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 Stand mixer Baking pans Measuring tools Pastry mat Small Appliances Food processor Blender Toaster oven Slow-cooker Coffee- or espresso- maker
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/ / O U T D O O R S PAC E S / / 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
enjoying the fresh air, entertaining friends outdoors, or tending your flower beds and garden
likely to spend Houston’s fine-weather months
Get your mate on board, and turn your attention to
(brief as they may be) enjoying the
grilling, chilling and savoring the sunshine, with gifts
great outdoors.
designed for outdoor fun.
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 Lawn & Garden Leaf blower Hedge clippers Pruning shears Gardening gloves Seeds or bulbs Riding mower Water feature Decorative pots or urns
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//LIVING/DINING ROOM// Whether they’re connected in an open-floor-
drink and celebrate. How you design and
doo-dads? Do you love the look of a
plan layout, or separate from one another,
furnish your home’s living and dining spaces
formal dinner table, laid out with perfect
these two spaces generally constitute the
will depend on your taste and style prefer-
place settings and flickering tapers all
heart of your home—the place where you
ences: Do you want to sink back and put
aglow? Do you crave a cool lounge space
relax, unwind, receive guests, entertain, eat,
your feet up without worrying about delicate
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 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 & Champagne flutes) Shaker Ice bucket and tongs Corkscrew
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06.10.17
MR.& MR S. //MADDIE & NICK //
COUPLE: Madison Monical & Nicholas Roman I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 375 I WEDDING COLORS: Blush, Hot Pink, Rose Gold & Green VENUE: The Astorian | CATERER: Cordúa Catering | LIGHTING & SOUND: Bright Star Productions | WEDDING DRESS: Joan Pillow Bridal Salon JEWELRY: Zadok Jewelers | BRIDAL BRUNCH: The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa | HONEYMOON: Anguilla
PHOTOGRAPHY: Chris Bailey Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Belle Of The Ball / Who Made The Cake / Events Houston / Bergner & Johnson Design / Empire 6 Band / Sculpting With Time
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
rosé
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
vanilla ice cream
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
going for a long walk and to lunch with my guy and our puppy, aspen WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his outgoing personality— he loves to meet new people
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
topo chico
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
peach cobbler
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
fishing on the lake
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
she is caring and compassionate—traits she will carry into her future career with patients
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As the new kid in her sixth-grade class, and the class clown to boot, Nick was the boy every girl had a crush on—“including me, of course,” Maddie says. The two became fast friends, but didn’t start dating until their second year at Texas A&M. On their two-year dating anniversary, Nick proposed on a private horse ride at sunset in the Hill Country. The couple tied the knot with a church wedding, where, Maddie says, the greatest highlight of the ceremony was “Nick’s tears as I walked down the aisle.” That poignant moment led to a lively celebration at The Astorian, filled with light and color, where a mariachi band serenaded guests during cocktail hour, and a former A&M yell leader led the crowd in the Aggie War Hymn before the couple’s sparklerlit departure. Adds Maddie: “Our wedding was a dream come true, full of special moments with family and friends that we will always cherish.”
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| F I N E R D E TA I L S
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/ / DA N C E I N T O T H E //
T H E R E ’ S N O B E T T E R WAY T O M A K E A N U N F O R G E T T A B L E P A R T Y H A P P E N T H A N W I T H AW E S O M E E N T E R TA I N M E N T. C H E C K O U T T H E S E F O U R T I P S F O R A M P I N G U P T H E F U N F A C T O R AT Y O U R F A B U L O U S W E D D I N G … A N D G E T T H AT PA R T Y S TA R T E D , S TAT !
P H O T O A D A M N Y H O L T, P H O T O G R A P H E R
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HIRE A PROFESSIONAL Hire a true wedding pro, not just an
winds down; a photo booth or video booth complete with props,
entertainer. There are plenty of bands, DJs and music providers
costume pieces and take-home pix, will be one of the most appreci-
out there who may be able to play their instruments or mix tracks,
ated parts of your party—and will help ensure that memories of
but may be woefully inexperienced with managing wedding
your magical day live on with many of your nearest and dearest.
flow and working the wedding crowd. A great wedding DJ or bandleader will not just deliver on the music you want to hear on your special day, they will also be able to move guests where you need them to go, introduce the wedding couple and special
4
REJOICE WITH MOVING MUSIC 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
guests as needed, modify volume during dinner and speeches, and
mean you can’t round out the revelry with an extra musical treat or
read the crowd for cues when it’s time to dance. An experienced
two. Take a cue from celebrity weddings, and consider having a
wedding entertainer also will provide state-of-the-art audiovisual
gospel choir bring guests to their feet (and uplift their spirits) with
equipment (or work directly with your lighting company or venue
a performance of favorite hymns, or even a popular love song, at
to ensure they have what’s needed) and, in some cases, can bring
your wedding ceremony. Of course, this being Texas, college foot-
special lighting and effects, to transform your reception space into
ball is a shared passion of many a wedding couple. Honor your
a high-energy dance party.
alma mater and/or your favorite team by having a professional
2
marching band play your fight song (and a horn-heavy, amped-up CREATE THE MOOD AT COCKTAIL HOUR The cocktail
version of your favorite love song, perhaps), as guests progress
hour is a chance for your guests to sip the signature cock-
from cocktails to reception, or in the middle of your party, with a
tails 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
surprise performance.
5
LIVEN UP YOUR LOUNGE As the party winds down—or possibly as the after-party winds up—a luxe lounge area,
pianist or small jazz combo. Not only does live cocktail-reception
where revelers can enjoy a single-malt Scotch or gourmet
music provide ambiance and elegance at this first taste of the party
espresso drink, and quiet conversation, provides relaxation
to come, but an experienced live musician who is well-versed in
and a respite from the high-energy hijinks, and shows that
event entertainment will interact unobtrusively with the crowd,
you care about your guests’ comfort. But just because your
welcoming requests for example, or playing mellow instrumental
lounge may be mellower than what’s going on inside the main
renditions of chart-topping pop hits, to the surprise and delight of
event doesn’t mean you have to leave your guests entirely
gathering guests.
to their own devices. If you’re a cigar aficionado, or know
3
that a number of your guests might enjoy a fine stogie, hire a POSE AND SMILE No matter how grand or fancy your
professional cigar roller to make cigars to order, and provide a
formal ceremony and black-tie reception, a photo booth will
comfortable space (taking into account the comfort of smokers
fit somewhere into the festivities. Trust us on this one: Whether you
and non-smokers alike) for guests to enjoy their handcrafted
place it in the transformed foyer or pre-function space, for guests to
cigars. Not fond of cigars? Consider hiring a wandering
enjoy as a break from dinner proceedings; or stage it outside, in
sleight-of-hand magician to offer table tricks to lounging guests
your al-fresco lounge area, for folks to have fun with as the party
as they relax and enjoy the show!
want “toYouhavedefinitely a professional wedding DJ or band on hand to handle
THE MAIN ENTERTAINMENT for your milestone event.
”
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11.18.17
MR.& MR S. //ALI
&
ALEX //
COUPLE: Alexandra Gray & Alexander Weaver I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 175 I WEDDING COLORS: Green, Cream, Blush & Merlot PHOTOGRAPHY: Kelli Durham Photography I WEDDING DRESS: Joan Pillow Bridal Salon I REGISTRY: Bering’s HONEYMOON: London, Paris & Amsterdam
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Keely Thorne Events / Alimento Catering / Papellerie / Bows And Arrows Flowers / Sperry Tents / La Tavola Fine Linen / First Class Rentals
Rental World / Whim Event & Tent Rentals / Gulf Coast Entertainment / Reiner’s Fine Jewelry / Drywater Band / Yours Truly Media W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 329
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
wine
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
crème brûlée
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
watching football with my friends and pups, preferably outside with a glass of rosé WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he is the most considerate person i know
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
scotch
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
tres leches
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
early morning round of golf, followed by an afternoon with ali WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her kindness
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We hear many stories from Houston wedding couples who have lots in common—alma mater, football team, favorite restaurant—but a couple who has practically the same first names? We’re pretty sure Alexander and Alexandra are a first for us! Ali and Alex, as they’re known, met through a mutual friend at a local watering hole, and got engaged five years later on New Year’s Eve, on the rooftop of a Manhattan hotel. Their wedding, at “a family ranch in a small Texas town, that was miraculously turned into our venue for the day,” Ali says, was more than a celebration— it was the beginning of a legacy. “The ‘Wedding Tree,’ as we lovingly refer to the massive oak tree we were married under, was completely covered with flowers that climbed up its large trunk,” Ali recounts. “I'll never forget that special day. Every detail was significant, including the donkeys, which made a special appearance at cocktail hour! We cannot wait to stand under the Wedding Tree with our children and grandchildren one day.”
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12.31.17
MR.& MR S. / / L A U R A & W YAT T / /
COUPLE: Laura Schreck & Wyatt Coleman I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 150 I WEDDING COLORS: Black, White, Marsala & Metallics VENUE: The Gallery I REHEARSAL DINNER: Ouisie’s Table I HONEYMOON: Dominican Republic
PHOTOGRAPHY: Alexander Cross Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Simply Beautiful Flowers / Red Sage Catering / Whisk Bakery / La Reve Bridal Couture Simple Beauty Artistry / Robbins Bros. / Monkey Booth Pics / Don’t Get Married Without Me / Moe Betta Entertainment / 3L Entertainment
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
dr pepper
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
anything chocolate
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
watching netflix with the kittens
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his dependability—he will always be there for me whenever i need him
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
whiskey
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
pecan pie
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
with my wife
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
that she’s into me
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When Wyatt first spotted Laura on stage during a freshman orientation activity at the University of Houston, he immediately knew that she was “the one.” The only problem: He had no way of finding her again. Luckily for both of them, they happened to bump into each other the very next day at the university’s music school orientation (he’s a musician, she’s a vocalist), and soon were inseparable. One very impressive marriage proposal later (a complex ruse that involved a made-up family emergency, a public down-on-one-knee proposal and a surprise engagement party), Wyatt and Laura sealed the deal before 150 friends and family in a New Year’s Eve wedding at The Gallery. Along with signature cocktails, plenty of musical performances, a “clock wall” in homage to the NYE holiday, a slew of comfort-food stations, and a cake topped with bride-and-groom sloths (the bride’s favorite animal), the wedding featured the blast of a confetti cannon at midnight, followed by what else? More dancing, of course!
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11.04.17
MR.& MR S. //CIARA & MARC //
COUPLE: Ciara Macaulay & Marc Vasquez I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 225 I WEDDING COLORS: Dark Green, Burgundy, Ivory & Gold VENUE: The Astorian I REGISTRY: Bering’s I PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY: Ama By Aisha I FLOWERS: Dream Bouquet I LINENS: EB Inc. Event Rentals & Design COORDINATOR & STYLIST: Kat Creech Events I CATERER: Cordúa Catering I HONEYMOON: Mexico CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Who Made The Cake / Arandas Bakery / Mike’s Dance Floor Rentals / Tidal Waves Of Joy / Your Beautiful Face / Ivory Bridal Atelier / Laura’s Couture & Alterations The Galaxie Jewelers / Maggie Wu Studio / Bradley David Entertainment / Original Trolley Co.
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
local ipa
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
blue bell ice cream
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
a morning run with our dog, sadie, and an afternoon out with friends and family WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his ridiculous sense of humor—there is always laughter in our home
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
bourbon on the rocks HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
chocolate cake
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
early morning bike ride, afternoon patio with beers WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
she’s always down for an adventure
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She was a graphic design intern and he worked with the club’s corporate partners when Ciara and Marc met while both working for the Houston Dynamo six years ago. Good thing they’re both great at keeping a secret: As co-workers, “We had to keep the love on the down-low,” Ciara says. “Marc’s boss didn’t even know that we were together until we got engaged!” Their wedding, at The Astorian, took advantage of Ciara’s design talents, with a custom wedding logo she created that combined their two last initials, and they also paid homage to Marc’s Mexican heritage, with custom-made papel picado, and a “dia de los muertos”-theme bride and groom on a bicycle accenting the reception’s candy table. Honoring the couple’s shared love of vinyl, guests signed vintage records instead of a traditional guestbook. “We truly couldn’t have made our wedding dream a reality without Kat Creech and her team,” says Ciara of her wedding coordinator and stylist. “Her attention to detail and vision is unparalleled, and because of her, our day was completely stress free.”
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 339
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342 PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
//
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 :
WHETHER YOUR WEDDING IS A
S H O R T A N D S W E E T C E R E M O N Y AT T H E C O U R T H O U S E O R A W E E K - L O N G A F FA I R S PA N N I N G M U L T I P L E C I T I E S , DOCUMENT THIS SPECIAL EVENT – AND YOUR LOVED ONES – WITH THE RIGHT IMAGES AND FILM.
PHOTO KELLI DURHAM PHOTOGRAPHY : GOWN JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON
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| D O C U M E N T I N G T H E D AY
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PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEOGRAPHY |
MAKE IT
C LI CK. / / E X P E RT A DV I C E F O R F I N D I N G A P H O T O G R A P H E R // W H I L E T H E P L A N N I N G M I G H T TA K E A Y E A R O R M O R E , T H E W E D D I N G I T S E L F I S O N E D AY I N Y O U R L I F E . B U T, O H , W H AT A D AY ! C A P T U R E I T I N A L L I T S J O Y A N D B E A U T Y, A N D Y O U â&#x20AC;&#x2122; L L B E A B L E T O R E L I V E I T TIME AND TIME AGAIN, LONG AFTER THE LAST DANCE IS DONE.
P H O T O TAY L O R G O L D E N P H O T O G R A P H Y
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PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEOGRAPHY |
1
G ET A REFEREN CE Once you’ve settled into the bliss of engagement, it’s
time to plan. And that planning includes selecting the photographer who will document your wedding and the moments surrounding it. You want someone who is reliable and trustworthy, with a positive attitude (even in the most stressful situations), and you want someone who truly “gets” you. Photographer Adam Nyholt says the best way to start is by getting referrals: “This could be from a friend who was recently married or from your wedding planner,” or a trusted resource such as Weddings in Houston.
2
COMPARE professional
PORTFOLIOS photographers
Most
have
a
website or Instagram profile, which makes it easy for curious couples to peruse photos, read testimonials, and get a feel for a photographer’s artistic style. Aisha Khan of Ama by Aisha recommends asking a prospective photographer for more than one sample wedding to view: “If you ask for one, they might send only
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| D O C U M E N T I N G T H E D AY
:
PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEOGRAPHY |
EXPERT ADVICE:
“It’s so important to meet face to face with your photographer for your initial consultation…because you’ll be spending so much time with them, you definitely want to make sure they’re a good fit.” Kelli Durham
their favorite one—it’s important to see what varies from wedding
face to face with your photographer at some point during your initial
to wedding.”
consultation!” She adds, “Because you’ll be spending so much time with
Kelli Durham of Kelli Durham Photography agrees: “As photog-
them, you definitely want to make sure they’re a good fit. If you’ve opted
raphers, we tend to put our best foot forward on our websites, in
out of any extra pre-wedding portrait sessions with your photographer,
our albums and on social media. While this is great for couples
at least grab a coffee or do a quick lunch or outing with them.”
to see a snapshot of our style and creative capabilities, I always
Top wedding photographers advise couples to really think about the
encourage couples to make sure they also ask to see several
feeling they want to have with the person who will document this impor-
complete galleries of weddings the photographer has shot, from
tant time in their lives. Ask yourself: Do you want someone who feels
start to finish, to get a sense of their capabilities in all lighting
like a close friend? Or would you prefer someone who shows up on the
situations and scenarios.” She explains that, “The actual wedding
big day and doesn’t bother you any other time? Either option is fine—it
day is a lot different from a portrait session or styled shoot.
depends on what’s right for you. Just remember to give consideration to
Couples really need to look at several past weddings a photogra-
the kinds of people and personalities you feel most comfortable with—
pher has shot to get a sense of the photographer’s experience. If
being in sync with your photographer will go far toward ensuring that
there is consistency in all of their complete galleries, then you are
the day flows exactly how you always dreamed it would.
in good hands.”
Oh—and one more thing: “Ask your photographer how they would react to family and friends who may want to take pictures on your
3
wedding day,” advises Barett Henry, of Civic Photos. “We are very
SPEND SOME FACE TIME When you’re ready to reach
easygoing, and I don’t mind if people who have known you your
out, it can be tempting to simply rely on email. This is fine for
entire life want to take photos—as long as they don’t get in the way
introductory inquiries, but, as Durham notes, “It’s so important to meet
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of our professional shots!”
| D O C U M E N T I N G T H E D AY
4
:
HAVE A PREGAME SESSION If time (and budget) allows, consider scheduling an engagement session or a save-the-date
PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEOGRAPHY |
5
MAKE TIME FOR PORTRAITS Golden reminds couples to ensure their photographer is committed to
session. This is an opportunity to really get to know your photographer and
shooting the wedding day in its entirety, including, perhaps most
see them at work, and for them to get to know you. “I recommend that the
importantly, those classic family portraits that will become
bride gets her hair and makeup done professionally, and that both spouses-
heirlooms. “Remember, your wedding is likely to be an activity-
to-be bring two to three outfits that show off their personality and their
filled day, and you may not be around your family members all
relationship,” says photographer Shiva Saadi of Dream Photo & Video.
that much,” she says.
She adds, “Maybe also have a couple of drinks before. Trust me, it helps.”
Lastly, a good photographer should be able to take family
“The engagement session is a great time to get to know your photog-
photos with ease, and also will be adept at capturing your
rapher better, and to get used to their style of shooting, so that the
many wedding details. You can help by being prepared, by
wedding day flows more smoothly, and you are comfortable throughout
having all your details–your dress or tux, jewelry, accessories,
the day,” adds photographer Taylor Golden. “Something I like to do for
etc.–on hand at the beginning of the day. Then relax, and let
my couples is shoot their session in another city, such as where they got
your talented wedding photographer do the fine work you’ve
engaged, or where they like to vacation.”
hired them to do!
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.
1. Videography is a sound investment. “We always tell our clients that
says Clay Vaughn of Reverent Wedding Films. “It allows us to
the vows and the sound of voices on video are the most important
capture all the toasts, all those special messages that family and
reasons to have videography as part of your day,” says Aisha Khan
friends share with the couple. And then we can incorporate that
of Ama by Aisha. “Couples tend to take pauses, or someone’s voice
into the wedding-story film.” He adds that the more intimate
cracks, and it adds so much to the emotion, and to the memory of that
rehearsal dinner setting encourages guests to share truly personal
emotion.” For this reason, “We focus a lot on sound, and on recording
stories: “On the wedding day, in front of 400 or 500 people
the best sound possible, knowing that it is something that will never
they’ve never met, they’re not going to let themselves be that vulner-
make it into the photos. As the couple watches the video again, it
able,” he explains.
takes their memories to another level.” 4. Videography tracks the evolution of emotion. It is one thing to 2. Videography captures the big picture. “We offer many different styles, and we use many different kinds of equipment to achieve the effect of a true wedding film,” says Shiva Saadi of Dream Photo & Video. She cites “drones, steadicams and glidecams” as just a few of the advanced technologies her team employs, and explains: “The drone can show the entire space where the couple got married. At the same time, the movement of the steadicam and glidecam make it really look like cinema.”
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 maidof-honor speech, a song performed at a ceremony, a couple’s “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 think the father-daughter and mother-son dances are always wonderful to see in video,” Khan says. “It is nice to have a photo of these moments. But a lot of times you just capture
3. Videography isn’t just for the main event. “What we do is we tell
one moment. When you are watching it on video, you see that
stories. And that’s why we love being part of the rehearsal dinner,”
moment developing, and that’s beautiful.”
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11.18.17
MR.& MR S. / / R A C H E L & TAY L O R / /
COUPLE: Rachel Stevenson & Taylor Price I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 500 I WEDDING COLORS: Soft Greens, Purples & Blues FLOWERS, DECOR, RENTALS & LIGHTING: Plants N’ Petals I CATERER: Café Natalie Catering I WEDDING DRESS: Now & Forever Bridal Boutique HONEYMOON: Missoula, Mont. PHOTOGRAPHY: Sarah Ainsworth Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Cowboy Country / Bourbon & Lace / Bakery & Cakes / DJ Connection
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
budweiser
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
blue bell cookie two-step ice cream HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
traveling to new places or staying at home with my husband and our dogs WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
everything, but mostly his smile and sense of humor
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
budweiser
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
doughnuts
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
hiking with my bride
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her dance moves
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While they both grew up in Huntsville just one school grade apart, Rachel and Taylor didn’t truly connect until one fateful night in 2014. That’s when the couple happened to catch up with mutual friends at a local watering hole, and got to chatting about camping and vinyls. “Next thing we know we had a camping trip and a ‘you bring the record player and I’ll provide the records’ date planned,” Rachel recounts. “Since then we’ve been inseparable.” In November 2017, florist Plants N’ Petals transformed a covered arena at Huntsville’s Cowboy Country into a “whimsical fairytale wedding” for rodeo cowboy Taylor’s marriage to his beloved Rachel. Dressed in Hayley Paige from Now & Forever Bridal Boutique, Rachel said her vows to Taylor in a sun-drenched outdoor ceremony, before segueing into a celebration with 500 of the couple’s nearest and dearest. “From start to finish, the dance floor and the Volkswagen-van Polaroid photo booth were where all the action was,” the bride recounts. “The night was a dream.”
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“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
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REAL WEDDINGS
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PHOTO: JERRY GHIONIS PHOTOGRAPHY
03.16.18
MR.& M RS. //SARA & AUSTIN //
COUPLE: Sara Marchionda & Austin Pettit I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 120 I WEDDING COLORS: Blush, Midnight Blue & Gold VENUE: The Woodlands Resort I CAKE: Cakes By Gina I CHIAVARI CHAIRS, CEREMONY & COCKTAIL HOUR LINENS: EB Inc. Event Rentals & Design HONEYMOON: Croatia
PHOTOGRAPHY: Madison Richards Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Let It Fly Events / Picture Me Houston / PRP Entertainment Co. / Hinz Jewelers / Robbins Bros.
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
spicy margarita
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
carrot cake
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
getting food and drinks on a patio somewhere with austin and our dog, tito WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he always knows the right thing to say, and he has the biggest heart in the world
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
a cold, hoppy beer
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
red velvet cake
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
relaxing with sara and our dog, tito
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
i love that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the little things that make her happy
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Austin met Sara for the first time at a concert in his namesake city, where they were introduced by mutual friends. “Luckily, Austin’s car got towed while we were at the concert, so he had to stay with our friends and me that evening,” Sara says, recalling the instant connection they had. The next day, “When I dropped Austin at his car, he kissed me on the cheek and told me that getting his car towed was worth it, because he met me.” Their wedding at The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center centered on a modern, romantic design scheme, “bringing in aspects of nature to match the feel of The Woodlands Resort,” Sara notes. Among the couple’s most cherished highlights? “When most of the guests had moved inside and gone upstairs to the reception area, we turned around, looked back at the ceremony space and soaked it all in—the sun going down, the string lights in the trees, the greenery on the pergola with the glass balls hanging down, the lanterns with the floral,” Sara recounts. “It was an emotional and breathtaking moment.” W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 359
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11.12.16
MR.& MR S. / / R O B Y N & DAV I D / /
COUPLE: Robyn Crowley & David Murphy I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 180 I WEDDING COLORS: Blush, White & Gold VENUE: Petroleum Club of Houston I FLOWERS, DECOR & RENTALS: Plants N’ Petals I CAKE: Edible Designs I HONEYMOON: Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard
PHOTOGRAPHY: MD Turner Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: From This Moment On / Embossed Graphics Of Texas / Weddings By Debbie / Blush & Co. / In10City Band
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
champagne
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
anything with berries
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
by the pool or ocean with friends
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he taught me how to love and be loved in a true, real way
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
old fashioned
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
lemon cake
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
spending time with friends
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her huge heart
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David proposed to Robyn in Cape Cod, on the beach where she’d spent her childhood summers. It was, as Robyn tells it, “a complete surprise,” one they celebrated with family at a beachside restaurant,
after
Robyn’s
enthusiastic,
“Yes!”
Following their church ceremony, the couple joined friends and family at the Petroleum Club of Houston, surrounded by shades of blush and winter white, with accents of greenery and gold, from Plants N’ Petals. There, they dined on lamb lollipops, crab cakes and filet mignon, along with a decadent white buttercream cake from Edible Designs. “It was a classic, beautiful reception, with
feminine
undertones—sophisticated,
yet
romantic,” Robyn says. “The band was a huge highlight, but our guests are what made it. It was exactly how I pictured it. I’ve never felt so much love in one room.”
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02.11.18
MR.& MR S. //SARAH & JOSEPH//
COUPLE: Sarah Fultz & Joseph Leguenec I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 120 I WEDDING COLORS: Lilac & Gold VENUE: The Bell Tower On 34th I CAKE: Cakes By Gina I ENTERTAINMENT: LG Event Entertainment & Production WEDDING NIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS: Hotel ZaZa Museum District I HONEYMOON: Paris, Rome & London
PHOTOGRAPHY: Ashley Eubanks Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Avant Garde Jewelers / Unique Style Productions / Oryan Photo & Video
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
french 75
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
key lime pie
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
afternoon tea
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his drive
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
macallan 25
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
homemade chocolate cake (my grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recipe) HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
morning brunch, evening cocktails
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her heart
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Joseph recounts how he made realtor Sarah show him 17 houses, even though, by his own admission, he’d made his pick after looking at the first three. Sarah, for her part, recalls texting her sister, “I’m kinda feelin’ my client,” after the first of many days she spent taking Joseph around to view properties. Then, seven and a half months after helping Austin transplant Joseph find his Houston home, Sarah moved right on in with him. The couple opted for a “small, intimate wedding of around 120 guests” at The Bell Tower on 34th, Sarah says. “The theme was ‘elegant castle,’ with touches of a ‘castle feel,’ such as napkins tied with wax seals, and hundreds of candles everywhere.” Oh—and let’s not forget the choreographed dance performed by former NFL cheerleaders and NBA dancers, including the bride, who happens to be both!
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PHOTO: 3 6 8 SYLVIE / W GIL EDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM
37 0 H O N E Y M O O N & T R AV E L
376 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 ) THROUGH, 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.
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 369
| JUST MARRIED
:
HONEYMOON + TRAVEL |
/ / G O T TA G E T //
AWA Y
PHOTO: TOMAS RAMOS // BRIDE: DANILLE FRIAS, LAS VELAS
/ / G O T TA G E T //
AWA Y 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
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| JUST MARRIED
:
HONEYMOON + TRAVEL |
booked, packed and ready to board, for the
wedding couples are all over the map when it
most romantic getaway of your life.
comes to honeymoon travel dates. And with good
2 HAVE FUN AS YOU PLAN As with
PHOTO:SYLVIE GIL
1
reason: Most Houston wedding couples are working folks, who have just spent tons of time plan-
wedding planning, honeymoon planning should
ning, then celebrating, their nuptial event. Taking
be enjoyable, exciting, full of anticipation and
off immediately after the wedding often isn’t an
laughter—it should not be a chore. Start your
option.
planning by sitting down together and plotting
A great alternative: Take time for a two- or
out places you think you’d like to go. Make it a
three-day “mini-moon” right after the wedding—
date night, or a series of them, and take the time
perhaps a jaunt to the Hill Country, or a Gulf
as a couple to search locations, compare travel
Coast getaway just a short drive from town.
wish lists, and read up on potential honeymoon
Then, later in the year, or whenever you have
destinations.
more time (and, perhaps, when your bank
Once you’ve narrowed down two or three
account has rebounded a bit), indulge in the
locations, start to think about what kind of honey-
dream vacation you and your boo have fanta-
moon vacation you would prefer. Determine if
sized about for ages. You’ll have way more fun
you both truly want the same experience on your
on your Caribbean cruise, French Polynesian
honeymoon—i.e. outdoor adventures, champion-
island-hop or Tuscan wine adventure, if you’re
ship golf, downtime by the pool, luxurious spa
not worrying about work deadlines or credit card
treatments—or, if you each have things you’d like
bills.
MAKE YOUR HONEYMOON PLANNING A PRIORITY During those
to enjoy individually (it’s OK, you’re married, not joined at the hip), while still having plenty of
4 TRAVEL IN STYLE
heady, hectic months—sometimes years—of plan-
opportunities for romantic strolls, snuggles and
the islands with that threadbare bikini you’ve
ning your wedding, honeymoon arrangements
sunset cocktails.
been wearing for three summers, your cozy
Don’t take off for
can sometimes take a back seat to big-day prep.
Also discuss the type of accommodations
“T-shirt bra”, or the backpack you lugged around
But if you wait too long to plan your honeymoon,
you’d like. An all-inclusive property, for example,
Australia as a hostel-hopping college kid. While
or you neglect budgeting for your big trip, you
can be more budget-friendly, and is great if you
you don’t have to replace your entire wardrobe,
may find yourself having to compromise on loca-
prefer not to have to arrange transportation or
your honeymoon is a great time to step it up.
tion, dates and amenities.
dining reservations every day, but can be limiting
A good way to upgrade your travel gear is
Just as a professional wedding planner will
for true adventurers. Boutique hotels, meanwhile,
with your wedding gift registry. Houston’s top
help you navigate your wedding decisions, and
can offer lots of unique design, edgy elegance
registry retailers carry superb luggage selections,
save you time and money on booking vendors,
and sophisticated fun, but may lack on-property
including luxury roller bags and full-size (but super
a professional travel agent can guide you to
restaurants and other amenities common to
lightweight) suitcases. Likewise, your bridal shower
the best hotels and resorts in your dream honey-
larger properties.
is great for upgrading your lingerie collection with special pieces.
moon locale, snag you honeymoon amenities
When you have a few options in mind, share
you don’t have access to yourselves (special
these with your travel agent, and collect informa-
Fun additions include monogrammed “wet
suites, spa vouchers, a welcome bottle of
tion from her or him, then make another date (or
bags” for swimsuits and water gear, designer
bubbly, perhaps?), and direct you toward deals.
two) to reconnect as a couple, review the details,
passport holders, travel tech holders, and elegant
and start to envision yourselves in…Paradise.
kits of your favorite products. And you might go
For optimal honeymoon planning, enlist a travel pro at the same time you start your
ahead and pick up a new fragrance—something
wedding planning in earnest—typically about
3 FIGURE OUT WHEN TO TAKE OFF
one year out. Doing so will ensure that when
While honeymoons traditionally have followed
years to come, to remind you both of your amaz-
you’re ready to make your escape, you’ll be
right on the tail of the big celebration itself, today’s
ingly romantic honeymoon.
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different, that you can dab on from time to time in
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REAL WEDDINGS
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1 0 . 0 7. 1 7
MR.& MR S. //MEREDITH & SETH //
COUPLE: Meredith Ramsey & Seth Pierce I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 230 I WEDDING COLORS: Pink, Green, White & Gold VENUE: JW Marriott Houston Downtown I REHEARSAL DINNER: Brennanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Of Houston I CAKE: Cakes By Gina I HONEYMOON: St. Lucia
PHOTOGRAPHY: Bri Costello Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Lanson B. Jones & Co. / Gold Connection Jewelers / Random Axis Band
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HER FAVORITE SIP:
casamigos blanco tequila HER FAVORITE SWEET:
dark chocolate
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
sleeping in together and having a pool day with friends WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
his humor, and the way he loves me
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
high west double rye whiskey HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
tiramisu
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
taking our dog, nala, on a walk together, spending time with friends, and going home to watch a movie WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
she always lets me be myself—and her eyes, they’re mesmerizing
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Though sparks flew for Seth and Meredith when they attended high-school homecoming together, “We ran in different circles, and were just friends afterwards,” Meredith says…until five years later when the two reconnected in Dallas at a college football game. “Sparks flew, yet again,” she tells us, but though they continued to keep in touch, their budding careers took precedence—and kept them apart. Then, one day in 2016, when the two met up in Houston, “the last nine years finally came together, and we each knew this was something we didn’t want to say goodbye to.” The pair got engaged in April 2017, and six months later they married, in a beautiful celebration at the chic JW Marriott Houston Downtown. “Our wedding was floral, modern and urban,” the bride says, noting the floral bridesmaids’ dresses, contemporary flower arrangements, and the table numbers and ceremony backdrop (both of which she hand painted), all chosen to express her love of art and reflect the JW’s “modern art gallery” ambiance.
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| 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.
376 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
| JUST MARRIED
:
YOUR NEW HOME |
Inside the loop is where it’s at for Houston newlyweds on the hunt for
activities, and you can take Uber out on the weekends if you
a newlywed nest that’s equal parts convenience and…cool. Expert
don’t want to drive—it’s not pricey at all.”
Sarai Rumph of Rumph Realty dishes on what neighborhoods are in highest demand, why young couples love these spots, and how you’ll need to prep for your own newlywed home purchase.
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
HAUTE HOODS While the entire inner loop area beckons newlyweds with a vast array of home options, Rumph says
commute is a huge plus,” Rumph says, noting that staying out of Houston’s notorious traffic means less stress, and more time to play.
three neighborhoods are in highest demand: the Heights, Montrose and Midtown. “Newlyweds want to be close to
NICE DIGS You’ll find smaller homes, historic bungalows and fixer-
where all the action is, and these neighborhoods have it all,”
uppers all over the Heights and Montrose neighborhoods. These options
Rumph notes. “You can walk to restaurants, events and
are ideal for the couple that wants to invest in value-holding property at a
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 377
| JUST MARRIED
:
YOUR NEW HOME |
lower price, and dive into a hands-on project together. But
INSIDE THE LOOP Want to buy a new home together? Be ready to pull
Rumph says the majority of her young-couple clients are
the trigger when you find the home you love. “You need to get pre-approved
choosing modern townhomes, which are plentiful all over the
for your loan, before you even consider seeing houses,” Rumph says. Pre-
inner loop.
approval doesn’t take long if you have your paperwork together, and it will help ensure that you’re ready to make an offer the moment you find what
“Townhomes are very popular,” she says. “You don’t have to
you’ve been looking for.
really worry about anything, and they’ve got lots of amenities, like rooftop decks.” And while some couples aren’t crazy about
And while buying a new home is exciting, “It’s a big decision, and it can be
the stacked, multi-level layout of some townhomes, others are
stressful,” she acknowledges. “But the stressful part really doesn’t last long,
making the most out of it by renting out the lower level to
and it’s so worth it.” For motivated buyers, the average duration from loan
generate income as they establish themselves in their careers
pre-approval to closing is about two to three months, Rumph says. Then, she
and build their financial foundation.
says, “You get to build memories as a family, in your new home, together.”
378 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
|
REAL WEDDINGS
|
06.24.17
MR.& MR S. //ROBYN & ZAC //
COUPLE: Robyn Reed & Zachary Richards I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 165 I WEDDING COLORS: Green, Pink & Cream FLOWERS, DECOR & RENTALS: Haute Flowers & Events I HONEYMOON: Key West
PHOTOGRAPHY: Rachel Driskell Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: The Farmhouse / Wed & Prosper / Red Sage Catering / Creative Confections By Roxane / Whittington Bridal / DJ Mad Mark Productions
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 379
|
REAL WEDDINGS
|
HER FAVORITE SIP:
dr pepper
HER FAVORITE SWEET:
crème brûlée
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
brunch
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
the way he looks at me when i laugh
HIS FAVORITE SIP:
coke
HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
cheesecake
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
watching netflix with my wife
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
her laugh
Their competition to be “the best” in their Texas A&M organic chemistry class led to a different kind of chemistry for Robyn and Zac. “We decided to start carpooling to and from the lab,” as Zac tells it. “Eventually, those drives became the highlight of my week and I prolonged our time together as much as I could. This is where I, Zachary James Richards, First of His Name, began to fall in love with the ever-so-lovely Robyn Catherine Reed.” Aww… The pair made it official with a Catholic ceremony in a circa-1894 painted church, followed by a rustic-elegant reception, with Haute Flowers & Events taking the design helm. The League City-based florist filled the couple’s Montgomery farmhouse venue with earth tones and greenery, adding in geometric glass terrariums for texture. “Being able to finally bring all of our family and friends together to celebrate our love was the best part of the reception,” Robyn says. “I was in awe the whole night!” 380 / W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M
|
REAL WEDDINGS
|
11.04.17
MR.& MR S. / / B R I D G E T T E & J O S H UA / /
COUPLE: Bridgette Matula & Joshua Mettlach I NUMBER OF GUESTS: 300 I WEDDING COLORS: Burgundy, Navy & Champagne VENUE, FLOWERS & DECOR: Old Glory Ranch I HONEYMOON: St. Lucia
PHOTOGRAPHY: Eilts Photography CONTRIBUTING VENDORS: Naegelin’s Bakery / Helzberg Diamonds / Art By HJoy / Odyssey Filmworks / Vega’s DJ Services
W E D D I N G S I N H O U S T O N . C O M / 381
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REAL WEDDINGS
|
HER FAVORITE SIP:
coffee or champagne HER FAVORITE SWEET:
anything chocolate
HER FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
sleeping in with our puppy, chloe, or going fishing with my husband WHAT SHE LOVES MOST ABOUT HIM:
he is one of the most thoughtful and caring men i have ever met, and he is my best friend HIS FAVORITE SIP:
root beer or michelob ultra HIS FAVORITE SWEET:
ice cream
HIS FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SATURDAY:
going fishing with my wife
WHAT HE LOVES MOST ABOUT HER:
she has such strong faith, she is kind, generous and caring, and she is absolutely beautiful
It was Bridgette’s second date with Joshua that really sealed the deal for her. As the pair, who met online, lived two hours apart, they decided to meet halfway for dinner in a small town. Since there was nothing to do after dinner but visit the local Walmart, they did just that. “Josh bought me a planner I needed for the classes I was taking at Texas State University, and one of my favorite childhood board games,” Bridgette recounts. “We sat in the parking lot sharing wonderful conversation and playing Connect Four for hours.” The next day, Bridgette told her best friend, “I know you’re going to think I’m crazy, but I really think he could be the one.” And he was. The couple celebrated their marriage at Wimberly’s romantic Old Glory Ranch, surrounded by candlelight and magnificent Hill Country landscape. She says: “We loved having my uncle marry us, dancing the night away, and getting to celebrate my grandfather’s 90th birthday at our reception.”
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 ALTERATION S
The Gallery 45
The Tremont House 43
Kristin Johnston Bridal Tailoring 190
The Gardens at Madeley Manor 101
The Villagio 115
MW Couture 211
The Grand Hall at Deer Lake Lodge 119
Walden on Lake Houston
Heather’s Glen 34
Golf & Country Club 93
Hilton Americas - Houston 37
Waterpoint Premier Lakeside Venue 105
Hilton Houston North 70
Waters Edge 16-17
Hilton Houston Post Oak 63
The Westin Galleria Houston 49
Hines Center 34
The Westin Houston Memorial City 68
Hotel Galvez & Spa 42
The Westin Oaks Houston at the Galleria 49
BEAUTY, H E A LTH & FITN E S S 2BPure - Lauren Falls Makeup & Hair 229 Etoilly Artistry 237 Forestwood Dental 229 Kiss And Makeup Houston 235 Love Dance Houston 236 Mrs. In Training 228 Nyoka Gregory Beauty 229 Verticality Pole Fitness 226-227
Hotel ZaZa Houston Memorial City 19 Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District 6-7 Houston Racquet Club 91 The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa 4-5
BAR SERV ICE S
Hughes Manor 69
Armandos Caters 287
Julia Ideson Library 71
Capitol Beverage 291
JW Marriott Houston Downtown 31
C EREMONY & R E C E P TIO N 15 Acres 79 Ashton Gardens 35 The Astorian 10-11 The Ballroom at Bayou Place 14-15 The Bell Tower on 34th 13 Bernhardt Winery 132 Boardwalk FantaSea Yacht Charters 110 The Bougainvilleas 77 Brennan’s Houston 32 Briscoe Manor 67 Cadillac Bar 110
Willow Fork Country Club 93 The Woodlands Resort 94 C A K E S & D E SSE RT S Cakes by Gina 297 Dessert Gallery Bakery & Cafe 284
Kemah Gardens 118
Edible Designs 305 Susie’s Cakes & Confections 292-293 Tiff’s Treats 289
King River Ranch 131
Wink Sweets & Treats 284
Las Velas 73 The Lyceum 66
C U L I N A RY SE R VI CES
Magnolia Hotel Houston 47
Armandos Caters 287
The Manor House of Richmond 103
Café Natalie Catering 283
Marriott Houston North 90
Capitol Beverage 291
The Meekermark 75
Cordúa Catering 285
Moffitt Oaks 83
Jackson & Company 281
Northgate Country Club 92
Sambuca Catering 146
Old Glory Ranch 131
Swift + Company 24-25
Omni Houston Hotel 33 Ouisie’s Table 87
D E ST I N AT I ON W EDDINGS &
Chateau Cocomar 23
The Parador 30
H ON E YM OO N
Chateau Polonez 64
Pecan Grove Plantation Country Club 93
Bernhardt Winery 132
Corinthian Houston 2-3
Petroleum Club of Houston 32
Eagle Dancer Ranch 141
Crystal Ballroom at The Rice 65
Pine Forest Country Club
Four Oaks at Mound Creek Ranch 111
DoubleTree by Hilton Houston
Plantation on the Bay 127
Hotel Galvez & Spa 42
Downtown 92
Raveneaux Country Club OBC, IFC
King River Ranch 131
DoubleTree by Hilton Houston
The Revaire 39
The Lyceum 66
Greenway Plaza 76
Sandlewood Manor 21
Old Glory Ranch 131
Downtown Aquarium 78
Sheraton Suites Houston Near the Galleria 90
Plantation on the Bay 127
The Dunlavy 60-61
Southern Lace Estates 125
Pompano Beach Club 371
Eagle Dancer Ranch 141
Sweetwater Country Club 93
Southern Lace Estates 125
Four Oaks at Mound Creek Ranch 111
Texas Renaissance Festival 107
The Tremont House 43
Chama Gaúcha 117
89
WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM / 383
// 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 Any Occasion Tents & Events 248 Blooms Design Studio 261 Bright Star Productions 264-265 Dream Bouquet 249 EB Inc. Event Rentals 253 Glenwood Weber Design 255 Haute Flowers & Events 257 LBL Events Rentals 254
Taylor Golden 346-347 P H O T O B OO T H S LG Event Entertainment & Production 327 Oh Snap! Selfie Photo Booth 344
RaoFactor Design House 256 River Oaks Plant House 273 Swift + Company 24-25 Todd Events 8-9
Parvani Vida Bridal & Formal 195 Stephen Grace Atelier 209
Natalie Annette 317
W E D D I N G M I N I ST ERS Weddings Performed 158
R E HE 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
W E D D I N G SE R VI C ES
Américas 145
A Day To Remember 155
Cadillac Bar 145
Memory Lane Paperie 322
MW Couture 211
Kuhl-Linscomb 321
Brennan’s of Houston 145
Isabella Invitations 320
MLD Limited 190 Now & Forever Bridal Boutique 189
The Barn at Briscoe Manor 145
Bering’s 315
Krystal Nicole Bridal Couture 191
Bering’s 315
Armandos 145
I N V ITATIONS
Kristin Johnston Bridal Tailoring 190
R E G I ST RY, G I F T S & FAVOR S
My Soapgrams 322
Plants N’ Petals 250-251
Joan Pillow Bridal Salon 187
Chama Gaúcha 145
Breathtaking Events 156 Events de Luxe 158 Grayhouse Events Atelier 157 Kat Creech Events 153 Unveiled Bliss 154 W E D D I N G SH O W S
J EWEL RY
Churrascos 145
Zadok Jewelers 173
DoubleTree by Hilton Houston
The I Do! Wedding Soiree IBC
Greenway Plaza 145
YO U R N E W H O M E
Hilton Americas - Houston 146
Rumph Realty 377
L IGH TING & SOU ND Bright Star Productions 264-265 LG Event Entertainment & Production 327 MUSIC & ENTERTA IN M E N T Danny Ray and the Acoustic Production 333 Emerald City Band 337 LG Event Entertainment & Production 327 Scott Graham Piano 328
The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa 146 Ibiza Food & Wine Bar 146 Lawless Spirits & Kitchen 146 McCormick & Schmick’s 146 Sambuca 146 Waters Edge 146
PH OTOGRAPHY Adam Nyholt Photographer 354-355 Ama by Aisha 357 Bryan Anderson Photography 348 Civic Photos 345
V ID E O G R A P H Y Ama by Aisha 357 Dream Photo & Video 344 Reverent Wedding Films 361 Ryan R Jones Photography 365
Dream Photo & Video 344 Kelli Durham Photography
Hines Center 146
349
W E D D I N G G O W N S & AT T I R E
Oh Snap! Selfie Photo Booth 344
Bella Bridesmaids 188
Ryan R Jones Photography 365
Houston Bridal Gallery 193
E N G AG E D & C O N F U S E D ™ ? P L A N W I T H U S O N L I N E ! W E D D I N G SI N H O U ST ON . C OM
384 / WEDDINGSINHOUSTON.COM