Wedding Edition Spring 2015
Let’s talk flowers
Choosing the right flowers for your wedding can set the tone of the whole event
Here comes
the bride(zilla) How NOT to become a Bridezilla
Featured blogs
Area professionals offer tips and advice
Wilson Woman is a quarterly lifestyle magazine featuring information on food, home, fashion, beauty and the amazing local women who call Wilson home. Publisher MORGAN PAUL DICKERMAN, III
Writers LISA BOYKIN BATTS JENNIFER STRICKLAND
Director of Sales and Marketing SHANA HOOVER (252) 265-7858 shana@wilsontimes.com Special Sections Manager JENNIFER STRICKLAND (252) 265-7848 jstrickland@wilsontimes.com
Photography GÉRARD LANGE WALLY STOCKS Graphic Design GÉRARD LANGE ____________________
Advertising Account Executives CYNTHIA COLLINS (252) 265-7826 ccollins@wilsontimes.com
WILSON WOMAN magazine is a publication of
LISA PEARSON (252) 265-7827 lpearson@wilsontimes.com
2001 Downing Street Wilson, NC 27893 www.wilsontimes.com www.wilsonwoman.com
TheWilsonTimes
BETH ROBBINS (252) 265-7849 brobbins@wilsontimes.com
find us on or at
GIA Graduate Gemologist Tripp Vaughn shares with us how to choose the perfect diamond. Pg. 4.
CHRISTINA SCHOEN
The owner of Cinderella’s Seconds shows you how to save money when planning your big day. Pg. 15.
INEZ RIBUSTELLO
Choosing the right wine to serve at your reception doesn’t have to be hard. On The Square’s owner shows us how. Pg. 23.
KRISTI RANDOLPH
The owner of The Spa at 1010 Nash tells us why it’s important to pamper ourselves. Pg. 27.
wilsonwoman@wilsontimes.com
www.wilsonwoman.com
TRIPP VAUGHAN
AMBER LAMM
Is laser therapy for you? ProGenix can help you decide. Pg. 30.
The Perfect Setting Receptions • Showers After Rehearsal Dinners Continental Breakfasts • Luncheons Party Trays • On & Off Site Catering www.somethingdifferentcafe.com 3342 Airport Blvd. Wilson, NC
252-291-0889
On the cover
Tori Pippin poses for her bridal portrait at Blount’s Creek. Photo by Stocks Photography.
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Here Comes the Bride(zilla)
Wedding planning can be overwhelming . . . and stressful. We’ll help you fight the urge to turn into a raging Bridezilla!
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Where will you spend your first days as newlyweds?
Phone apps can provide unlimited wedding planning ideas.
Time for the Honeymoon!
There’s an App for that!
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Wedding Essentials We’ve got everything you need for your big day, all in one place!
24
Let’s Talk Flowers Magenta is hot this year, but is it right for you? Take a look into the top floral trends for 2015.
WEDDING 2015 | WILSONWOMAN.COM
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All about the bling!
By Tripp Vaughan The occasion of your engagement is one of the most exciting moments of your life! This moment deserves a special ring to mark such a romantic gesture. Choosing that significant piece of jewelry can be overwhelming. Relax and take your time in considering the many choices in style, color, size and quality of your ring. Let’s start with the mounting which is the actual ring itself. You have many styles to choose from. You may prefer an antique
vintage mounting with lots of filigree and accent stones. These rings often include a halo of small diamonds surrounding the large center diamond. Your style may lean more toward modern contemporary with clean, classical lines and fewer details. In that case, a simple solitaire setting may be perfect for you. You may also wish to ponder the quality of metal for your ring mounting. Do you prefer a white, yellow or rose gold or is platinum a better choice for you? Yellow gold is perhaps the most traditional of all the metals although in recent years it has made a strong comeback in popularity. White gold is by far the most popular color for rings today. Keep in mind, however, that white gold requires a bit more maintenance than other metals. All gold comes from the ground with a yellow color. White gold is mixed with alloys to give it a white appearance. All white gold today is finished with a rhodium plating that gives it a brilliant, shiny white color. Rhodium plating
Shoppes at Brentwood • 243-5707 VaughansJewelers.com
must be touched up from time to time to maintain this finish. Platinum is another choice if you prefer a white metal. Platinum has the reputation as the most vintage of all the metals and has the advantage of being a naturally white metal. Platinum has far greater strength and durability than gold. If you are especially adventurous, you may prefer rose gold, which is gold and copper alloy that gives the metal a rosy color. Your most daunting consideration is the diamond that will grace your mounting. This is where the all-important 4 C’s come into play: carat, clarity, color and cut. Carat weight is the most obvious factor in a diamond’s value. The larger a diamond, the more rare it is. However, keep in mind that two diamonds of equal carat weights can have very different prices depending on their quality. Clarity has the second biggest impact on price, after carat weight. Clarity is a measure of a diamond’s internal flaws and
We offer a variety of bridal lines to accommodate every style and budget including Tacori, Simon G and True Romance. Custom design services are also available. Graduate gemologist on staff.
impurities. Practically all diamonds contain naturally occurring internal characteristics called inclusions. The greater a diamond’s clarity, the more brilliant, valuable and rare it is. Colorlessness in a diamond is highly desirable, although most diamonds have at least a trace of yellow or brown. The more colorless the diamond, the rarer and therefore more valuable it is. While nature determines a diamond’s carat, clarity and color, the hand of a master craftsman is needed to release its fire, sparkle and beauty. A well cut or faceted diamond scintillates with fire and light, offering the greatest brilliance and value. You could also consider certification another of the “C’s” of diamond purchasing. A diamond grading report is a quality certification from an independent recognized gemological laboratory. A certification offers an assurance of quality. You are now armed with some basic information about buying a diamond ring. Enjoy your shopping experience!
Our Guest Jewelry Blogger for this issue is Tripp Vaughan, of Vaughan’s Jewelers. Tripp is a GIA Graduate Gemologist.
Custom Printed
Wedding Announcements and Invitations
Calling Cards - Note Cards - Napkins Bridal Gifts CRANE & CO.
2839 Daisy Ln. • 206-0619
(Located inside Ross McDaniel Salon)
MON.-FRI. 10-5:30 • SAT. BY APPT.
here comes the
BRIDE(ZILLA)
Written by Jennifer Strickland
When it comes to planning your wedding, there will be stress. And a lot of it. There will also be tears. At least a dozen times. Trust me on this one. How you react to that stress will determine whether you are now and forever-more known as a Bridezilla. Planning a wedding isn’t easy. You think it’s going to be the happiest time in your life, but what no one tells you is that nothing is going to go as planned and you will have at least one major freak-out before you walk down the aisle. No matter how well prepared you are, it’s going to happen. I woke up on my wedding day in Kill Devil Hills to a full-blown thunderstorm. Our wedding was scheduled for 6 p.m. outside, on the beach. In the rain, apparently. Luckily, the storm passed over quickly and the sun came out, and we had the most gorgeous weather possible for our ceremony and reception. I’ll never
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forget the meltdown I had that morning when I was awoken by loud thunder and torrential rain though. I just knew my day was ruined! It wasn’t, but that didn’t stop me from going into full Bridezilla mode. My point is this: you might as well go ahead and expect that things aren’t going to go as planned on every aspect of your wedding. I don’t know of any bride who gets through the entire process of planning a wedding, walking down the aisle, and leaving on her honeymoon without some sort of . . . hiccup.
Things can go wrong with so many aspects when it comes to wedding planning. You could research the perfect florist or bakery and even sign a contract with them, only for them to have an emergency at the last minute and leave you scrambling. Or you could find your perfect dress and take it for alterations, only to pick it up a few weeks before your wedding and discover that it’s 2 inches shorter than it was supposed to be or a size too small! Things happen. Even to brides. There’s nothing you can do about it, except face it head-on and hope for a positive outcome. We’ve done some research and talked to some local experts and have put together a few tips and tricks to help you get through this stressful process, so take notes, make some calls, and get ready to be the beautiful blushing bride you’re destined to be!
Invitations
do
allow plenty of time for guests to respond. Check with your caterer to see how far in advance they will need a head count. Based on that, send your invitations far enough in advance to allow a minimum of two weeks prior to the caterer’s deadline.
don’t
include wedding registry information on your invitation. Why? Giving gifts at a wedding is not mandatory, and putting that info on your invitation makes your guests feel as though gifts are expected.
do
do
send out Save the Date cards well in advance of your wedding if you expect a large number of out-of-town guests to attend. Include hotel information on your Save the Date so your guests have plenty of time to make reservations.
take a complete invitation, as in stuffed in the envelope with all enclosures and response cards, to the post office and have it weighed for correct postage. You don’t want to have all of your invitations returned because you underestimated the correct postage.
don’t
let family members, especially your parents, take over your guest list. Inviting their close friends who know you well is fine, but every partner in your dad’s law firm doesn’t have to be on the guest list.
Ceremony don’t
have your ceremony and reception venues too far apart if you can help it. The closer they are to each other, the better it is for your guests.
don’t do
address invitations by hand. You should never use pre-printed labels on your invitations.
do
have a backup plan if you are planning an outdoor wedding. Mother Nature can be a bit unpredictable. Be prepared!
assume you have to order invitations online to have them be affordable. “You can shop locally and get a great invitation cheaper than you can get them online. Plus, you’re helping your local economy by dealing with a local business,” says Debbie McDaniel, owner of Fine Print Stationery in Wilson.
don’t
plan for your ceremony to stretch on and on. Yes, poems and readings are cute. The first two times. After that, your guests will be left wondering when it’s going to all be over.
don’t
forget to pay your officiant and invite them to your reception.
do
have comfortable seating available for all of your guests. You may want to reserve extra chairs just in case you have a few more guests than you planned for.
do do
get your program prepared and printed at least four weeks prior to your wedding.
try to start on time. Leave yourself plenty of wiggle room for mishaps that may come up while you are getting ready so your guests aren’t left squirming in their seats.
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Your Bridal Party do
choose attire for your groomsmen and bridesmaids as far in advance as possible. In most cases, their attire will need to be ordered.
don’t
underestimate the power of supportive undergarments. You don’t want to be tugging and pulling all day, so make sure you get properly fitted for the right undergarments.
don’t
choose an extremely pricey dress for your bridesmaids. While they’re happy to be a part of your big day, some of them may not have hundreds of dollars to shell out on a dress they will wear once.
do
consider the theme of your wedding when choosing attire for the groomsmen. If you’re having a simple ceremony, you don’t want to dress your groomsmen tuxedos and top hats.
do
don’t
bring in a bridesmaid dress when choosing the color for the vests or ties for your groomsmen. “You don’t want to try and match a specific color just by looking. There is too much room for error,” says Hilton Bass, owner of Hilton’s in Wilson.
don’t
worry if you have one more bridesmaid than groomsman. There’s no rule that says the number has to be even!
do
mix and match your bridesmaids dresses, but keep them in the same color family. Let your bridesmaids choose the style that best flatters their figure.
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expect your bridesmaids to keep on those 3” stilettos throughout the entire wedding and reception. If you don’t want them barefoot, consider giving them some flats or sandals as a gift the morning of the wedding.
do
spring for the cost of having your bridesmaids hair and makeup done, especially if you want it done a specific way.
Reception
do
drink lots of water during your reception. You’ll be mingling and talking. A lot. Don’t get dehydrated.
don’t
have a cash bar. Asking your guests to pay for their drinks is a bit tacky. If you don’t have the budget to offer alcohol, opt for a champagne or sparking grape juice toast and leave it at that.
don’t
expect your guests to entertain themselves for a long period of time between your ceremony and your reception. If you’re using the same venue, make sure they offer somewhere for your guests to mingle while they wait and keep the wait time as short as possible.
do
have a toast prepared to thank your guests and bridal party for being there with you and helping you celebrate.
don’t
seat your guests right on top of your DJ or band. Make sure your reception venue is large enough to accommodate your guests without having to seat them next to a blaring speaker.
do
keep your first dance, garter toss, bouquet toss, and whatever else you plan to do, classy. Your guests aren’t expecting a show, so don’t give them one.
don’t have a budget for your catering and stick to it. Make sure you let your caterer know when you schedule your tasting what your budget is so they can offer food that will fit into your budget.
speak to all of your guests at some point during the reception. It lets them know you are happy they are there to share your special day with you.
don’t
leave your guests waiting forever for you to arrive at your reception. While they expect a delay due to photos and possible wardrobe changes, please don’t linger and leave them waiting any longer than necessary.
do
do
be afraid to ask your caterer questions. “You want to be sure you know what you are getting. Asking questions will ensure that you and your caterer are on the same page,” says Marilyn Stallings, owner of Something Different Cafe and Catering.
do
narrow down your reception venue as soon as possible after you have set your date. Find out if there are any restrictions or regulations you’ll need to follow.
do
plan as far in advance as possible for catering. While a year in advance is standard, caterers will work with you if their schedule allows.
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time for the
HONEYMOON
Once you’ve made it through the stress of planning your wedding, made it to your big day, and said your “I do’s”, you and your shiny new spouse can begin your lives together in paradise, on your honeymoon. Will you go somewhere tropical? Or somewhere frigid? Or somewhere magical? 10
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When planning your honeymoon, the choice of destinations is unlimited. From sunny, sandy beaches to frozen, whitecapped mountains, you have a plethora of options to consider. “Tropical destinations are in right now,” says Kim Evans, a vacation planner with The Travel Shoppe in Wilson. “I’ve been booking trips to warm destinations lately. Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are all popular right now.” Maybe that’s because everyone is dreaming of somewhere warm because of all the cold weather we’ve had lately, or maybe it’s because a nice warm beach seems to be the perfect location to spend your first days as a newly married couple. Either way, when you’re planning your honeymoon, there are options and packages you may want to consider. Using the services of a travel agency can take
Your honeymoon is a time to enjoy your new spouse. Spend it somewhere that is special to both of you. some of the stress out of planning your dream honeymoon. After all, you want the time you spend with your new spouse to be stress free and magical, not filled with anxiety. “Take into consideration the things you want to do while you’re on your honeymoon. Do you want to spend a lot of time at your resort or in your room? Do you want to take advantage of the sites and activities around you? How do you really want to spend your time?” says Evans. All of those questions should play into choosing where to go for your honeymoon. For some couples, a low key destination is best, while for others, a destination that offers lots of
things to see and do is a better choice. “Consider your partner and their likes and interests. You’ll want to make the decision together on where to go so that you’re both happy to be there and so you can enjoy the time you have with your new spouse,” says Evans. One of the most popular choices in honeymoon planning are all-inclusive resorts in tropical locations. “Allinclusive resorts give you the most bang for your buck. Everything is included. Your food, your alcohol, certain excursions and non-motorized water sports, and your accommodations,” says Evans. Some of the places you will find all-inclusive resorts include Jamaica, the
Dominican Republic, Riviera Maya and Cancun. Another option to consider are resorts that offer European style vacation packages. “With these packages, you pick and choose the things you want to be included and you pay for them all separate,” says Evans. The U.S. Virgin Islands and Turks and Caicos are popular destinations that offer European style packages. For the most part, the resorts that you can choose from offer the same sorts of activities. “You’ll find snorkeling, horseback riding, kayaking, and paddleboating at almost all of them,” says Evans. “Many of the activities that
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are available are at an additional cost and need to be booked ahead of time. Make sure you do your research and know what your options are as soon as possible so you can take advantage of the things you want to do and not miss out.” If you don’t want to limit yourself to just one destination for your honeymoon, consider a cruise. “Cruises are a good choice for those that want to have something to do in between arriving at their destination,” says Evans. These days, you can do just about anything on a cruise ship. You can take in a Broadway show, gamble in the casino, lounge by the pool, or even have a day of pampering in the on-board day spa. “Cruises also give you the option of choosing multiple destinations. You can visit several places in Mexico, the Carribean, or the U.S. Virgin Islands all in one trip,” says Evans. There are also cruises to Alaska, Europe and many other destinations to consider. “Depending on where you want to go, there is probably a cruise
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itinerary that will fit,” says Evans. “You can cruise for three days, or five days, a week, or even longer. It’s all up to you.” If the beach or being on a large ship with hundreds of people just isn’t your thing, consider a ski trip to one of the top ski resorts in the country. “We have so many places available to us here in the U.S. You don’t have to travel out of the country to have a fantastic honeymoon,” says Evans. Lake Tahoe, California and Aspen, Colorado are very popular ski destinations and both offer accommodations to fit every budget and need. “For some couples, snuggling in front of a nice, warm fire after a day of skiing is a great way to start their new lives together,” says Evans. Going abroad is also a popular choice for some couples. “Going somewhere they have never been but always wanted to go has appeal for some couples,” says Evans. England, France and Italy are extremely popular choices for honeymoon destinations and also offer tons of options on how
to spend your time. Whether you want to sight see, enjoy regional cuisine, or just lounge around the pool, there’s something for everyone when you visit abroad. Some couples are even incorporating their families into their honeymoon plans. Blended families find that they can involve the children from both sides into the trip and give everyone a chance to mesh. If this is what you’re after, consider a kid-friendly destination such as Disney World or even a Disney cruise. With both of these options, you can take advantage of in-room child care services if you’re at the parks, or you can drop the kids off at one of the many kid-friendly areas on the ship and go have a little one on one time with your new spouse. Be sure to ask about what options are available to you when booking your trip. Regardless of how or where you choose to spend your first days as a newly married couple, your honeymoon is something you will remember for years to come. Make sure it is filled with fun, love, laughter and of course, memories.
a p l u s w i l s o n
.
c o m
The Wilsonian Special Events Center
• 4,000 Sq. Ft. including Dance Floor • Stage • Prep Catering Kitchen • Ample Parking
252-243-0404
Gaynell Stallings Owner
113 Barnes Street ~ Historic Downtown Wilson
252-237-0773
2801 Ward Blvd. • Wilson shoppingbrentwood.com
there’s an app
FOR THAT
Written by Jennifer Strickland With the ever growing technology field, many brides are now turning to apps and websites to help plan their big day. With dozens of apps to choose from, online and portable wedding planners are a sign that times are changing. There are apps and websites for wedding countdowns, dress selectors, virtual wedding planners, photo sharing, and so much more. If it’s related to wedding planning, trust me . . . there’s an app for that! Pinterest is among the most popular of these apps. Using Pinterest, brides can make a virtual bulletin board for every aspect of their wedding. You can choose from hundreds and hundreds of pins on things ranging from invitation ideas, cake designs, favors, food, dress-
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es and more. You can find ANYTHING wedding related that you ever thought you might like or want to see on Pinterest! You can share your boards with your bridal party and even enable them so that others can post ideas they find that you might be interested in. Instagram is another way to find unique and unusual ideas for your wedding. Instagram, an online, mobile photo and video sharing site, allows you to upload and share photos and videos with millions of people. You can also follow individuals such as gown designers, photographers, caterers, wedding venues, and more. Following these people and places can give you insight into what they are working on for current weddings and allow you to pos-
sibly draw some inspiration for your own nuptials. There are even humorous pins all over the internet mocking those of us that were married long before the days of Pinterest and Instagram. Those pins say we should get a do-over, and I gotta say that I agree! Don’t get me wrong, I love the way my wedding turned out, and I wouldn’t change a thing about it. However, I want to have the opportunity to use some of these super clever and absolutely gorgeous ideas soon-to-be brides are posting all over the internet. If you’ve spent any time on Pinterest or Instagram (and let’s be honest, we ALL have!), I know you know what I’m talking about. I want a do-over! Who’s with me?
Wedding planning, budget style By Christina Schoen Saving money and weddings do not usually go hand-in-hand but with a little bit of work and creativity it is easy to shave off a lot of expenses. First, start by buying a consigned gown at Cinderella’s Seconds. A lot of ours are new and came from boutique wedding stores that were closing. Doing this can save you hundreds if not a thousand or more depending on your choice. Secondly, buy a plain ring with a quality diamond at a pawn shop (they give an authenticity guarantee), and purchase a semi mount from traditional jewelry store and viola! A custom ring that fits your style and pocket book. Pick a venue that stays in your budget. There are a lot of ways to decorate the beautiful back yard or the church you frequent or even your favorite outdoor spot
like the beach or a lake in the mountains. Enlist the help of your family and friends. Make a list of what is needed and find out who you know that has that talent or who they know that does. One friend may be crafty and could decorate. Others may be able to put together flower arrangements (purchase at Sam’s Club or Walmart), and make boutonnieres. Some one else may be able to do alterations even if not for you, for your bridesmaids. There are of great deals on Craigslist for wedding decorations that have been used once and are very cheap, but just as lovely as when they were purchased by the original owner. For great candid photos have a basket full of disposable cameras and have everyone grab one and snap away during the reception.
Our Guest Financial Blogger for this issue is Christina Schoen, owner of Cinderella’s Seconds. With these tips I hope you can save as much as possible and have the money left over for the fun stuff, the honeymoon! Stop by the store and I would be happy to talk to you and give you more money saving ideas.
Your Wedding Should Be A Home Run Cinderella’s Seconds can help you
“Knock It Out Of The Park”
Cinderella’s Seconds
Brentwood Shopping Center • 2801 Ward Blvd, Wilson (252) 234-7100 • Tuesday-Friday 11am-6pm, Saturday 11am-4pm Wedding Gowns • Tux Rentals • Mother of the Bride/Groom and much more!
Wedding Essentials
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1 3 1. A+ GRAPHICS z 3101 Ward Blvd., Wilson, www.apluswilson.com, 252.243.0404 z THE CHOICE IS YOURS… Select an invitation package in their show room, order online, or work with their designers to create a custom package made specifically for you. They not only offer wedding invitations, programs, napkins, party invitations and accessories, but also specialize in enlarging and printing your special wedding pictures on canvas! 2. GRACIE’S VILLAGE SHOPS z 4833 NW Nash St., Wilson, 252.991.2463 z Grab it, engrave it, and go! Gracie’s Village Shops offers a beautiful selection of P. Graham Dunn gift items that are ready for you to add your personalized message with laser engraving while you wait! 3. BELLE & CO. z Shoppes at Brentwood, Wilson, 252.291.8869 z Jack Rogers are the perfect accessory for weddings! Kick off the heels and dance the night away and then set off on the honeymoon!
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6 4. GALLERY OF FLOWERS z 3601 Airport Blvd. NW, Wilson, 252.291.8205 z Gallery of Flowers offers everything from traditional, classic arrangements to arrangements with a modern day twist. Every design is made especially for you by their talented and experienced floral designers. Stop by today and let their designers bring your thoughts to life. 5. CINDERELLA’S SECONDS z Shoppes at Brentwood, Wilson, 252.234.7100 z This beautiful iridescent, blush colored Mori Lee wedding gown with an intricately sequined bodice and full tulle bottom is just one of the fabulous designer gowns you will find at Cinderella’s Seconds. Many of their gowns are brand new and have come from high end bridal stores. Before you spend thousands on a new wedding gown, stop by Cinderella’s Seconds and find the dress of your dreams . . . for less! 6. FINE PRINT STATIONERY z 2839 Daisy Lane, Wilson, 252.206.0619 z Get off to the right start.... Let Debbie guide you through your wedding plans....Fine Print offers a great selection of wedding invitations, programs, luncheon and rehearsal dinner invitations, personalized notecards and thank you cards for all your wedding needs by Crane & Co, William Arthur, Carlson Craft, Printwell, Embossed Graphics, Odd Balls and many others. WEDDING 2015 | WILSONWOMAN.COM
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Wedding Essentials
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1. JOLIAN SHOES & ACCESSORIES z Shoppes at Brentwood, Wilson, 252.291.3899 z Step out on your honeymoon in style! Jolian Shoes & Accessories carries a large array of shoes that are perfect for wherever your honeymoon takes you. From Vanell, Rowen, and Fly London, to Castell and Sam Edelman, Jolian Shoes & Accessories is your destination for shoes! 2. THE SPA AT 1010 NASH z 1010 Nash St. NW, Wilson, 252.237.4772 z Planning a party? Take the hard work out of party planning and let The Spa at 1010 Nash handle all the details! Spa parties are a unique way to celebrate any occasion, such as a bridal shower, birthday party or even a bachelorette party. The Spa at 1010 Nash offers the serenity and tranquility you’ve been looking for with a variety of services to customize the party you’ve envisioned. 3. THE SPA AT 1010 NASH z 1010 Nash St. NW, Wilson, 252.237.4772 z Today, brides are well aware that what they look like on their wedding day will be etched in their own memories and family albums for posterity. Let Bella-Pella, PLLC medical spa services, Wilson’s most experienced and oldest medical spa services, help make those images flawless and wrinkle free.
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7 4. ADVANTAGE RENTAL z 3191 Airport Blvd. NW, Wilson, 252.291.9600 z Wow your guests!! Advantage Rental can provide a spectacular Red Carpet Entrance for your next exclusive event. 5. KACHMAK z Shoppes at Brentwood, 2801 Ward Blvd. #3C, www.kachmak.com, 252.674.1856 z Wedding, anniversary, birthday-- gifts from thoughtful tokens to grand expressions. Alessi, Thomas Paul, Seletti and other select sources. Good design lasts forever. Kachmak. 6. GIA FASHION BOUTIQUE z Shoppes at Brentwood, Wilson, 252.991.6344 z Gia Fashion Boutique offers selections from European designers from Italy, France, Germany and Scandinavia and American designers like Chan Luu, Donna Mizani, and MYNE as well as GiGi Handbags, and Chan Luu Bracelets, the Marlie Collection (bracelets and necklaces) They also have a collection of scarves, denim from McGuire and Henry & Belle. Visit Gia Fashion Boutique for modern, city chique style... 7. BB&P EMBROIDERY z Shoppes at Brentwood, Wilson, 252.206.1929 z Monogram it all......for the bride and groom! BB&P Embroidery can help. From towels, sheets, robes and pillows to shirts hats, jackets, and scarves, BB&P Embroidery has something to suit every newlywed couple. Visit today and let them create the perfect wedding gift for you. WEDDING 2015 | WILSONWOMAN.COM
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Wedding Essentials
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3 1. THE NOOK z The Shoppes at Brentwood, Wilson, 252.243.2503 z The Nook now offer you a more personalized look for any invitation....Calligraphy. The Nook offers wedding invitations, personalized notecards, napkins, attendants gifts and much more. 2. PROGENIX z 2519 Airport Blvd. NW, Wilson, 252.234.0021 z Relieve hormonal imbalance symptoms with Bio-Identical Hormone Optimization through ProGenix! 3. PROGENIX z 2519 Airport Blvd. NW, Wilson, 252.234.0021 z ProGenix Health Solutions offers TAZER, the most powerful weight loss supplement available!
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6 4. VAUGHAN’S JEWELERS z The Shoppes at Brentwood, Wilson, 252.243.5707 z Vaughan’s Jewelers has a wide selection of serving pieces for your dining and entertaining needs. Our Mariposa collection features lots of unique, eco-friendly designs. Visit Vaughan’s Jewelers today so they can help make your wedding or dinner party a success! 5. WILSON FLOWERS & MARKET z 4017 Raleigh Rd. Parkway., Wilson, 252.991.6104 z At Wilson Flowers & Market, Randy Bissette designs large or small arrangements for special events and weddings. These arrangements can range from the very simple and elegant to the very extravagant. We strive to make each arrangement unique for every occasion. 6. WILSON FLOWERS & MARKET z 4017 Raleigh Rd. Parkway., Wilson, 252.991.6104 z Randy Bissette at Wilson Flowers & Market is a master at wedding bouquets, specifically designing them to each bride’s request. Call him today for a free wedding consult.
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Wedding Essentials
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3 1. FRAMER’S ALLEY z 112 E. Main St., Elm City, 252.236.3231 z Framer’s Alley in Elm City is your one-stop shop for all your professional framing needs. They carry beautiful art from local artists and specialize in everything from custom framing to limited prints, shadow box framing, bridal portraits and more. Visit today and see for yourself how beautifully Framer’s Alley can display your favorite picture, portrait or memory. Gift certificates are available! 2. FITNESS NEWS & VIDEO z Shoppes at Brentwood, Wilson, 252.291.1162 z Fitness News & Video has something for everyone. They have a large selection of Claire Burke, wallets, handbags, jewelry, flags, Woodwick candles and more! Be sure to take advantage of their current tanning special: 10 visits for $25! 3. SOMETHING DIFFERENT z 3342 Airport Blvd., Wilson, 252.291.0889 z Whether you are planning your wedding reception, or you are just stopping in at lunchtime with friends or family for some quick fine-dining fare, Something Different has the experience and resources to fill your needs. Their staff has over 20 years in the food service industry, and Something Different is proudly family-owned and operated.
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A Wine for Weddings By Inez Ribustello Spring has sprung, and wedding season in eastern North Carolina has officially begun. Beginning mid-April, our restaurant, On the Square, will cater its first of three weddings preparing not just the food but also the beverages that go along with a reception. Because we understand just how important one’s wedding day is, we want all bases to be covered at the reception. While the food should definitely be a highlight, we feel the bar is also of utmost importance. When Stephen and I were married 12 years ago, we felt strongly about offering our guests a glass of sparkling Rose from France. We have always been fans of bubbly, and while it would have been fantastic to serve Champagne, we knew that that was not a realistic option. While many brides (and grooms) want to offer a signature cocktail, our sommelier side is more excited about serving delicious vino that highlights the food at the reception and tastes delicious on its own right. We find it to be more and more the norm to rent the flutes and serve some type of bubbly, whether it be from France, Italy, California or Spain. Of course, we are partial to a wine known as Cava that can retail for as little
as $9/bottle. The beauty of Cava is it can also be made as a Rose, providing the perfect pink sparkle for festive celebrations. As my dad once told me 10 years ago, he didn’t drink Champagne because he got so sick on it in high school, he’s never had any desire to try it again. After I politely explained to him that Cold Duck is not Champagne nor is Korbel or Andre, he still said “I’ve never felt so badly in my life.” That same man a.k.a. my dad boarded the Cava train five years ago and still hasn’t gotten off. He drinks it in a flute, he drinks it on the rocks. He even drinks it with green eggs and ham. The point being, bubbly just isn’t trendy, it has become the norm, and if you’re not offering it at your bar, you might want to seriously consider it. Yes, you do need to make the decision to rent flutes...unfortunately, bubbly can lose a little of its joie de vivre when drunk out of a big bowled wine glass, but it is definitely worth the small expense. Some other beautiful and affordable bubblies include the following: From France: Cremant d’Alsace, Cremant de Bourgogne, Cremant de Jura (producers vary in quality and price) From Italy: Prosecco, Franciacorta
Our Guest Mixologist for this issue is Inez Ribustello, an Advanced Sommelier. She and husband Stephen own On The Square restaurant in Tarboro. (producers vary in quality and price) From New Mexico: Gruet Blanc de Noirs From California: Iron Horse, Schramsberg, Domaine Carneros (sidenote: these are a little more on the expensive side) From Germany: Sekt (producers vary in quality and price) Sparkling wine is a great way to add a little more love to your wedding celebration. It’s meant to be served at joyous occasions, and a wedding, my friend, is just that.
MAKE AN EXECUTIVE DECISION.
JC Harris of Wilson, NC
4030 Ward Blvd., Wilson, NC •
252-237-1111 • www.jcharriscars.com
let’s talk
FLOWERS Written by Jennifer Strickland
Every bride wants her wedding to be perfect. Having the right flowers at your wedding can set the tone of the whole event. 24
WEDDING 2015 | WILSONWOMAN.COM
Big is out and simple is in. At least, that seems to be the floral trend for this year. “Brides are tending to go with arrangements that are more simple in nature as opposed to the big, elaborate arrangements from years past,” says Nancy Crowder, floral designer at Gallery of Flowers in Wilson. “We are seeing brides go for smaller bouquets as well.” Your personal style should be reflected in your bouquet. “It’s important for the bride to showcase who she is. If
she likes bright colors and lots of bling, she should let her bouquet show that. If she prefers softer colors and a classic look, her bouquet can show that too,” says Crowder. The type of bouquet you choose can be indicative of your style as well. While smaller bouquets are ideal for some brides, there are others still that prefer the cascading bouquets that have been around for years. “Some brides come in and want small clutch bouquets and then we get brides that want a more
traditional bouquet with flowers and greenery cascading down.” With wedding bouquets, size does matter! While that cascading bouquet may be gorgeous, it may also be heavy. Creating a manageable bouquet that is easy to carry and won’t weigh you down is important. You’ll have to hold your bouquet for lengthy periods of time throughout the day (like while you’re posing for photos),so you want to make sure it is something you can easily manage. You’ll also want to consider your stature. Long, cascading bouquets can be overwhelming for someone with a shorter stature. If this is you, you’ll want to consider something a little less overwhelming. After all, the focus should be on you and your fabulous dress, not the oversized bouquet you are dragging down the aisle. Clutch bouquets have been popular for years, but they are starting to see a new trend. “Brides are asking us to incorporate mementos into their
bouquets. Whether it’s a photo or a pin, or even a handkerchief, it’s become a great way for brides to incorporate the old tradition of ‘something borrowed, something blue, something old, something new’ into their wedding,” says Crowder. Non traditional bouquets are also high on the list for this year’s brides. Bouquets made from brooches and pins are in right now. Just take a look on Pinterest and you’ll see them everywhere. “We recently had a bride call and ask us to only make her boutonnieres because she was in the process of making her bouquet out of brooches and pins that had belonged to different members of her family.” Brides are also foregoing the traditional corsage for the mother of the bride, grandmother, mother of the groom and other wedding party members. “We are starting to do more and more clutch bouquets for people than corsages,” says Crowder. It is important to note that if you
choose to go with a clutch bouquet or a bouquet that is hand tied, you’ll want to have a vase of water nearby at all times to place your bouquet in when you’re not carrying it. Because the style of these bouquets does not offer a water source, they will need to be placed in water periodically in order to maintain their beauty throughout your special day. As with everything else wedding related, trends in floral have already developed for 2015. “Magenta is the hot color this year,” says Crowder. “Magenta flowers, magenta ribbon, magenta everything!” Some of the top flowers you can expect to see at this years nuptials include hydrangeas, gerbera daisies, peonies, orchids, tulips and the ever popular rose. Where you will be holding your wedding and reception can have an impact on the blooms you should choose. If you’re having an outdoor ceremony or reception, you’ll want to choose blooms that can withstand exposure to the elements, whether it be heat or sun or
WEDDING 2015 | WILSONWOMAN.COM
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wind. “Flowers that have delicate petals aren’t typically a good choice if you need them to hold up for a long period of time, especially if they will be exposed to weather,” says Crowder. Roses, sunflowers, tiger lilies, and dahlias are among the flowers that will hold up and look beautiful from the beginning of your outdoor ceremony to the end of your outdoor reception. Bulb flowers, like tulips and daffodils, can’t withstand the heat or direct sunlight and will begin to droop and the blooms will open. The location of your wedding can also dictate the amount of flowers or floral arrangements you may need. If you’re having your wedding in a church that is ornately decorated, you may want to opt to have fewer flowers so the true beauty of the church can shine through. If you’re having your wedding in a fairly blank space, talk with your florist about the best way to incorporate color and eye catching arrangements that can add to the space. You also want to consider your guests when looking at flowers. While highly fragrant blooms can be gorgeous,
they can also aggravate guests with sensitivities. Use these types of flowers in moderation. There’s nothing worse than looking at your wedding video years later and hearing constant sneezing or coughing due to a guest’s sensitive allergies. When looking for ideas for your wedding flowers, Pinterest is a great place to start. You can find all sorts of ideas on colors, styles, and more. Blake Davenport, owner of Gallery of Flowers, has seen his share of brides who have been on Pinterest. “We have brides come in all the time that have seen ideas on Pinterest. While it’s a great place to get ideas, please keep in mind that they should only be ideas. Going in to a florist with your mind set on something you’ve seen online can sometimes end in disappointment. While florists try very hard to match the photo that has been brought in, sometimes the flowers just don’t cooperate. It may be that the flowers you’ve seen in a photo aren’t currently in season, or it may be that those flowers are better suited for an indoor wedding when yours is outdoors. Either way, keep an open mind
Our Talent Your Style
and be adaptable to change, should it be necessary.” One of the most important things to consider when choosing your flowers is, wait for it . . . cost. Flowers can easily eat up a large chunk of your wedding budget. It’s best to meet with your florist as soon as possible once you’ve set your date and picked your venue. Your florist can let you know ahead of time the amount of flowers you might need based on your likes and location, and an overall cost so you know what you can expect. Knowing this as far in advance as possible can give you time to make adjustments in other areas to accommodate the cost. If you are planning to have fresh cut flowers on your wedding cake, you will want to plan ahead with both your florist and baker. Both vendors should be aware of what you want and should be able to coordinate with each other to ensure that the flowers for your cake are available and are delivered in time to be incorporated. Whatever flowers you choose, your wedding is a day you’ll remember forever. Enjoy it, and cherish every minute of your special day.
www.thegalleryofflowers.com 3601 Airport Blvd. • Wilson 252-291-8205
A little pampering never hurts By Kristi Randolph The bride has been planning for months and the big day is quickly arriving. She has poured her heart and soul into planning the wedding and now she is a nervous wreck! But that is OK; a great way to help reduce the stress and calm her nerves is to make sure she takes time for herself. A spa day may be just what the bride may need. As the big day approaches, she continues to be bombarded with questions and demands, reducing the wonder and amazement of the big day. A spa day can help reduce the stress and can also provide services that can improve her skin, reduce wrinkles, and even add a tan, just before the big day. The pre-wedding spa day has become increasingly popular. Imagine a hot stone massage or a special bridal Swedish massage to help you relax the day before your wedding. Remember to plan ahead and schedule this weeks in advance to keep your stress at minimum.
Today brides are well aware that what they look like on their wedding day will be etched in their own memories, wedding photos, and Facebook for generations to come. So many choose to add a spray tan to their pre-wedding program to provide a sunless tan to their skin. Others choose undergo chemicals peels, dermal-planing, or even Botox treatments to ensure their skin is perfect. It is recommended that chemicals peels, dermal-planing, and most medical spa services be performed a week or two in advance to ensure that any skin changes are complete, just before it is time to walk down the aisle. But if time is of the essence, micro-current, red-light therapy, and sauna detoxification can be performed the day prior or even the day of the wedding to give the bride that special glow. It is important to note that a spa day does not have to be for just the bride; a spa bridal shower is a great option for the whole
Dresses for ALL of your wedding occasions! BCBG Lilly Pulitzer Amanda Uprichard Jade JoyJoy Julie Brown
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belle & co Shoppes at Brentwood 252-291-8869 2801 Ward Blvd. Ste 3A Wilson, NC 27893
Our Guest Beauty Blogger for this issue is Kristi Randolph, owner of The Spa at 1010 Nash. group. A day of pampering - from full body massages and European facials to foot or hand massages - is a great way to honor the bride and spend quality time together. It is important to take some time to wind down for all involved to ensure that the wedding day is relaxed, enjoyed, and cherished for all.
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WEDDING
Announce your engagement and wedding the traditional way — in the Life section of The Wilson Times. The Times publishes special occasion announcements on Mondays in both the print and online editions. Bridal couples can choose between three wedding packages and price options as well as two photo sizes. Starting this month, in addition to submitting written forms, couples can also fill in information and submit forms online through our website, www.wilsontimes.com. “We are very excited about this new option,” said Lisa Boykin Batts, Life editor. In the past, brides and grooms who downloaded forms online had to
print the forms, fill in the blanks by hand, then scan the form and email it back or bring it to the office. “Now the couple can do it all online,” Batts said. They can fill out the form, submit it electronically and pay online as well. “We are starting with the wedding form this month,” she said, “and will expand to our engagement, anniversary and birthday forms later this spring.” Wedding and engagement forms can also be picked up from customer service and filled out by hand for those who prefer to do it that way. “We think this new process will be so much easier on the bridal couple,” Batts said.
www.theflowerpotnc.com
The Nook Shoppes at Brentwood • Wilson • 243-2503 Monday-Friday 10:00-5:30 • Saturday 10:00-4:00
OUR GIFT TO YOU “We have the Best Customers in the World” Our gift to wedding couples, their families, and friends is the most unique collection of gifts you’ll find anywhere. From formal to casual and everything in between, our bridal registry, signature gift wrapping and delivery is complimentary. And, with gifts starting at $25, we can provide a truly unique treasure for the bride and groom and those who want to be part of this very special event.
4833 NW Nash St. • 252-991-2463
IPL Laser Therapy needs to be on your to-do list! By Amber Lamm You’re busy making preparations for your big day and the to-do list seems to never end. While this is a joyous time, it can also bring about anxiety and stress, which takes a toll on your body. Many of us get so caught up in wedding details such as the decor, the cake, and the dress, that we forget to focus on ourselves. When was the last time you did something nice for yourself? Has the thought of being hair-free for your wedding day ever crossed your mind? Think of how many hours of your precious time you have wasted shaving, only to have the hair back the following day. Or maybe you gave up shaving years ago and now pay more than a pretty penny to have your hair painfully ripped from your body. Yikes! The truth is, we have all been there, and I for one, was tired of the same cycle. I started the IPL Laser Hair Removal Therapy and my only regret is “Why didn’t I do this sooner”?! I noticed a HUGE difference in my hair reduction within the first treatment, even though the profes-
sionals recommend five treatments to achieve optimum results. When you are in the middle of wedding planning, the last thing you need to be worrying about is body hair! With IPL Laser Therapy, you don’t have to worry about shaving, plucking, or waxing ever again! I highly recommend this treatment to every bride...it will free up so much of your time and put your mind at ease knowing you will have silky, smooth skin for your special day and for years to come! Now, maybe body hair isn’t a problem for you. If so, then you are one of the lucky few! Even if you haven’t given body hair a second thought, what about scars, sun spots, age spots, or acne? Did you know that IPL Laser Therapy also treats all that I just mentioned? Almost all of us have “problem areas” that we would love corrected and it is now possible with these awesome treatment options. My motherin-law has had IPL treatment for sun spots and it truly works wonders to fade the spots and even out the skin tone!
Our Guest Beauty Blogger for this issue is Amber Lamm, Office Manager at ProGenix Health Solutions, Inc. in Wilson. Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day, and I truly believe that IPL Laser Therapy is the way to achieve your best. Whether your goal is to spend zero time removing unwanted hair, or to get rid of that annoying scar, these treatments are your answer. Did I mention these treatments are not just for the bride? Your soon-to-be groom can take advantage of the awesome benefits these treatments offer as well! Locate an IPL Laser Therapy professional in your local area now in preparation for your big day. You deserve to treat yourself!
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