Distinctively Southern Wedding Spring 2018 by Robertson Media Group

SPRING 2018

MARRY ME HERE COMES THE BRIDE

I DO HAPPILY EVER AFTER

COVER:

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SPRING 2018

A stunning creation from The Frosted Affair by Jay Qualls. MARRY ME HERE COMES THE BRIDE

Marry Me Tips & To Do's Marry MeBefore The I Do’s

I DO HAPPILY EVER AFTER

Photography by Nikki Hollis Photography

Distinctively Southern Wedding Every Issue

Happily Ever After

Why A Wedding Planner Should Be the First Vendor You Book with Krista Ehret

Wedding Trends with Krista Ehret

3 Questions from Engaged Brides in Nashville with Alyssa Dicicco

Dress Buying Tips Finding Your Dream Gown

The Symbol Of Love Buying the Perfect Engagement Ring with King Jewelers

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Floral Designer with Alyssa Dicicco

Corners You Shouldn’t Cut at Your Wedding with Alyssa Dicicco

Where Do I Register for My Wedding with Alyssa Dicicco

Tips For a Kid-Friendly Wedding with Ginger Jones

The Wedding Roles with Krista Ehret

Jay Qualls & The Frosted Affair Local Celebrity Wedding Cake Designer Stacks Up to the Best

What to Expect at Your Wedding Catering Tasting with Alyssa Dicicco

All You Need Is Love... And a Caterer with Chef’s Market

Five Ways to Personalize Your Wedding with Alyssa Dicicco

Wedding Budget Blasters & How To Avoid Them with Krista Ehret

Tie the Knot at a Top Destination Wedding Location with Hollie Deese

Gift Ideas for Your Wedding Party & Fun Wedding Facts

Letter From the Publisher

Did You Know?

Here Comes the Bride Prepping for the Big Day 16

Sumner’s Historic Sites as Wedding Venues with Ryan Baker

Alternatives to Rehearsal Dinners with Krista Ehret

Preparing for Wedding Day Disasters

Social Media Wedding Etiquette 101

Ladies that Brunch with Katie Jacobs

Homestead Manor Historic Romance Abounds at This Beautiful Estate

The Second Time with Annie Osteen

Arrington Vineyards & Winery Where Love Blooms Amongst the Vines

Beauty Junkie: For Better or For Worse with Julie Jorgensen

Take a Moment

The Top 10 Wedding Movies

Happily Ever After After the Vows 25

Financial Advice for Newlyweds with Jonathan Walker

Must-Read Books for Newlyweds

What To Do With the Dress

Wedding Anniversary Gift Traditions

Three Ways to Preserve Your Bridal Bouquet

I Do

Fairy Tales Come True

Rebecca Bonham Bagby & Drew Johnston Luna, Jr.

Valen Johnson & Griffin Wilcoxon

Rachael McCampbell & Curtis Stewart

Marti Veto & Tom McGrew

Distinctively SouthernWedding 6

Memorable Events for Families & Businesses

Nostalgia & Luxury Our beautiful farm combines the charm of a farm with modern luxury, and there are endless photo opportunities. Climate control and the perfect combination of amenities make Bagsby Ranch an excellent setting for any event looking for scenic beauty. There are hotels and restaurants within three-minutes of our location. Your event will have access to tables and Chivari chairs, a PA system and soundboard, lighting, and several ceremony sites both in- and outdoors. We also offer valet parking, a 3-acre lake with a 30-foot fountain, and dock where you can hold your ceremony. If you like, you can even have an industrial look with massive iron bolts and other decorative features. You can make the facility whatever you like for a wide range of events.

Bagsby Ranch is a memorable venue for both personal and corporate events in Gallatin, Tennessee. We have hardwood floors, air conditioning, restrooms, a bridal suite and groom quarters, and a catering and prep area.

BAGSBY RANCH

1628 Long Hollow Pike Gallatin, TN 37066 (877) 395-2432 www.bagsbyranch.com

When you first walk through the door, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see a beautiful dual staircase leading up to a balcony that covers the barn. Our venue combines luxury and classic style in a barn and a country setting with elegant lighting.

Dear Readers,

middle Tennessee area (and beyond), we already knew that we would need more than one issue to get to it all! So here is the spring edition and please look forward to our second edition later this fall. We will also be launching our Distinctively Southern Wedding website within the next few weeks, where brides can find ongoing information all year round.

Welcome to the very first edition of Distinctively Southern Wedding! Although it is our first stand-alone magazine for bridal, we have been publishing special bridal content within our other publications Your Williamson and Your Sumner for several years. That content has proven to be so popular with our readers that we thought – why not just do an actual bridal publication, but have the ability as a stand-alone product, to have even more wonderful content and also be able to offer to areas outside of our current community publication markets. Thus, Distinctively Southern Wedding was born! Not of course without hiccups and, even with our vast experience in publishing, especially magazines, we still had a learning curve. But that is always good. I love to learn new things and even though I have planned and been a part of my share of weddings – this industry is always evolving. It’s always beautiful, it’s always romantic and its always full of wonderful sights, sounds and opportunities to showcase stunning food, venues, florals, gowns and more. We were all so excited to begin planning and putting together this first issue. Knowing how much content, advertisers, contributors and readers we could have in the

We believe in the overwhelming quality of our product and the businesses who have supported it in this first endeavor. We also believe that great content is important to the reader – you! So, we will never skimp there, we promise! We hope to have even more of that great content and even more incredible advertising partners from all over the region in the next edition and every issue thereafter. In the meantime, our gratitude to our inaugural advertising partners is beyond measure. They have made this publication possible and we hope you enjoy!

CEO & PUBLISHER

Catherine Royka MANAGING EDITOR

Shelly Robertson Birdsong Publisher shelly@robertsonmediagroup.com

Johnny Birdsong

Anna Robertson Ham

PRESIDENT SALES & DEVELOPMENT

VICE PRESIDENT MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Tracey Starck CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Robertson Media Group, LLC P.O. Box 364 Franklin, TN 37065 Office: 615.236.9961 distinctivelysouthernwedding.com yourwilliamson.com yoursumner.com

A DISTINCTIVELY SOUTHERN PLACE

Please send all content & coverage requests to: info@robertsonmediagroup.com

Cheers to beautiful weddings and radiant brides and timeless love stories.

“ Distinctively” - In a way that is characteristic of one person or thing and distinguishes it from others. “Southern” - Relating to, or characteristic of, the south or its inhabitants. What could be better than a Distinctively Southern Wedding? Shelly Robertson Birdsong

Distinctively Southern Wedding, Your Williamson and Your Sumner are publications of:

Ron Cheatham VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Alyssa Dicicco

Krista Ehret

NASHVILLE BRIDE GUIDE

SOUTHERN SOIREE

Ginger Jones

Annie Osteen

JONES THERAPY SERVICES

YOUR WILLIAMSON COMMUNITY WRITER

Jonathan Walker PAUL WINKLER, INC.

Distinctively SouthernWedding 8

Steve Absher, Account Exec. Kingery Printing Company YOUR Printing Partner 615.828.8661 stevea@kingeryprinting.com quotes@kingeryprinting.com Distinctively Southern Wedding, Your Williamson & Your Sumner are publications of Robertson Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or whole, without written permission from the publisher, is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of Your Williamson, Your Sumner or Robertson Media Group, LLC, its employees, and/or it’s representatives. All information printed in this publication or online, is compiled in such a way as to insure accuracy. However, Your Williamson, Your Sumner and Robertson Media Group, LLC and its agents, assume no liability and/ or responsibility for the accuracy of claims in advertisements, articles, photographs etc. published directly or submitted.

Marry Me

Why A Wedding Planner Should Be the First Vendor You Book BY KRISTA EHRET

Wedding planning is a whole new ball game for most engaged couples. There’s a great chance that you’ve never planned a party for 100+ people. Even if you have, you probably weren’t personally attached to the day like you will be for this one. The stakes are high financially, mentally and emotionally. While most checklists will tell you a venue or a photographer are the first vendors you should book, I’m going to explain why a wedding planner should actually be number one. WE’VE DONE THIS BEFORE. Just as you typically wouldn’t attempt to cut your own hair or fill that pesky cavity by yourself, why not let a professional guide this process for you. There is a misconception that a planner will “take over” the day. Not the case. They are there to make the process less stressful, save you time and basically do the things you’re not interested in doing. WE KNOW OUR CITY. Middle Tennessee has become a huge destination wedding hot spot. This is great as it means there are tons of options for venues, caterers, florists, etc. However, lots of options

can become overwhelming. Planners have experience with vendors and can easily help weed through the masses and find your best fit. More importantly, they can advise you on the ones to stay away from. WE SERVE AS COUNSELORS. I’m not joking that the top thing we hear after a meeting with a bride is, “I feel so much better.” Stress comes with the territory. Then you add some meddling family members and it spikes to an all-time high. Sometimes you need a third party to tell you if your ideas will work or to help walk you through a decision. Mother-in-law insisting on bringing a slide show of her baby boy to play during the mother-son dance? Let us break the news to her it won’t be able to work and save you face. WE SAVE YOU MONEY. Hiring a wedding planner may seem like a frivolous expense at first sight. We’re not the least expensive vendor you’ll contract, but we may actually make up for it in the long run. The first thing we do is identify your top priorities. Whatever these items may be: food, entertainment, etc., this is how you will start

designating your budget. This keeps you from throwing money at a million things at once and not having a cohesive vision. When the budget gets tight, we start making suggestions of ways to make things work while keeping your priorities and finances intact. WE ALLOW YOU TO ENJOY YOUR DAY. Out of all of the above points, this is my top one. You get one day to be a bride or groom. You deserve to relax and take it all in. I have been to way too many weddings where the bridal party and family are running around like crazy. Don’t do this to yourself! We are there to block all elements of stress and take care of any issues that arise. Your job is to sip champagne and make memories. When searching for a wedding planner, make sure they offer free consultations, and interview a few options. You will work closely with this person for the next several months and want to make sure you enjoy their company. Many planners offer their pricing options online. If they don’t, ask them before the meeting to give you a range so neither one of you waste any time. Happy planning!

Custom Publishing & Integrated Marketing Services 436 Main Street | Suite 205 | Franklin, TN 37064 615.979.1548 | info@robertsonmediagroup.com

Marry Me

WEDDING TRENDS BY KRISTA EHRET

2018 promises to be a bold and vibrant year in the wedding world. From botanical plants to bridal capes, check out the fresh trends we’re so excited to see this year. COLORS Ultra Violet is the Pantone color of the year. This is a gorgeous hue to use in moderation by way of paper goods like programs and menu cards or in your centerpieces against more neutral tones. Look for more moody color contrasts and less pastel. Black and white will also likely make a comeback. Accent metallic will transition from the abundantly used gold and rose gold to the cooler silver and chrome.

2 0 1 8

BRIDAL GOWNS AND BRIDAL PARTY ATTIRE Gowns will have a sleek silhouette, but a pop of drama by way of a bell sleeve or an elegant bow on the back. Lace and sheer princess capes will be seen in lieu of veils and high-low hemlines will continue to be popular. Floral patterns and cold shoulders will be go-tos for bridesmaids and expect to see the gentlemen in jewel tones such as navy and emerald or in textures like tweed and herringbone. FLORALS AND DÉCOR We’re seeing a move away from the bohemian woodsy vibe into a more botanical feel. Greenery will remain huge but think less moss and succulents and more palm leaves and ferns. Single stem bouquets may be used instead of costly over the top ones and don’t be surprised to see Baby’s Breath make a comeback alongside the newbie, dogwood. Modern elements like clear tents and lucite furniture will replace the shabby chic fad. Geometric planters and lanterns will continue to be used in centerpieces and aisle décor. Unique textures such as velvet linens, balloon arches and marble dance floors make a surprising appearance. FOOD AND BEVERAGES We’ve seen signature cocktails as a popular choice for years. The trend has now made its way into the main course. Couples are giving their guests two entrée options: a “his” and a “hers” based on the bride and groom’s preferred selections. Comfort foods will stay on trend with options like mac n’ cheese and even chicken pot pie. International themes will also continue to be a crowd-pleaser. Beautifully decorated cake bites in herb-infused flavors such as lavender and verbena may be passed to guests during the reception and late-night treats are sticking around to keep the party going. OTHER TRENDS Other trends in 2018 include a focus shift from the individual décor items to the overall experience of the event with unique and personal activities and elements. Wedding registries are also evolving. Couples may now be bolder and upfront asking for cash, honeymoon spa appointments, trips or charity donations. After parties will continue to grow in popularity as more couples want to keep the celebration going post-reception.

Distinctively SouthernWedding 10

Distinctive Weddings Refined romantic venue in a gorgeous, gated reclaimed limestone rock quarry at the border of Franklin & Thompson’s Station #notabarn TM

Trevor & Shelby Terndrup, married 9/8/17 Photo: Teale Photography Dress: Monique Lhuillier / The Bride Room Bouquet: The Bride..Shelby Terndrup Hair: Amelia Eason Makeup: Allie Corzine Groom’s Formalwear: Top Shop / Topman

4520 Graystone Quarry Lane, Franklin • graystonequarry.com • info@graystonequarry.com

Marry Me

Questions from Engaged Brides in Nashville

BY ALYSSA DICICCO

I had the privilege of speaking with a group of brides over lunch recently. They all came prepared with some great questions and were looking for lots of vendor recommendations. I’ve outlined a few of the questions they asked me along with my answers.

Q: What style of food do you recommend? Family style, plated or buffet?

Q: I would love to incorporate flowers into my wedding but am looking for a DIY alternative. Should I buy wholesale flowers for my wedding day?

Q: What are some things I can do to make my wedding memorable?

A: It all really depends on what type of wedding you want to have. However, there are a few factors to think about with each food option. I absolutely love family style meals; however, you may be charged a little more for all of the additional serving bowls, spoons, etc. that you’ll need to hold the food. Think about it - each table will need their own separate serving dishes. Also, if you’re concerned about your food staying warm, this may not be the best option for you. You’ll also want to think about how much room you have on your guest tables to place all the extra dishes of food - and those tables can be tight. Plated is very elegant and formal, so if your wedding calls for that, then go for it! Buffets are more of the normal “Nashville style” food service option of choice. Your food will stay warm and your guests can take as little or as much as they want. Just remember you’ll have to rent extra dishes with this option as guests may come up for seconds (along with renting chafers, serving spoons, etc.). And talk with your planner about whether or not you’ll want the plates pre-set at the table or stacked next to the buffet.

A: I know, once you start adding up all of your wedding expenses, you can tend to have sticker shock. However, I highly recommend hiring a florist for your wedding. You have so much to think about on your wedding day already, you aren’t going to want the overwhelm of creating every single bouquet, boutonnière, corsage, centerpiece and extra floral décor the morning of your wedding! Just don’t. However, if you have a friend or family member who is willing to help you with the flowers (and knows how to arrange a beautiful bouquet), then it’s something to consider. Many local florist shops offer wholesale flowers and can even deliver them un-arranged to your venue on your wedding day. But please, do not go to the grocery story on the day of your wedding thinking they will have everything you need. Flowers are seasonal and the selection is very limited if you do not place an order ahead of time.

Distinctively SouthernWedding 12

A: Again, these brides had some loaded questions! I think a great way to make your wedding memorable is by getting creative with things that represent you as a couple. Are you music lovers? Incorporate your favorite songs throughout your wedding signage. Not a huge fan of cake? Opt for ice cream or cheesecake! Are you a crossword puzzle junkie? Create a custom puzzle and place it at each guests’ seat. Anything that will catch your guests’ eye and stand out compared to every other wedding they’ve been to will leave them talking about your day for a very long time! However, the thing I like to remind brides of is - don’t try too hard! The most memorable wedding moments are the ones that happen naturally and organically throughout your day. You never predicted how much your father would sob during his speech... or the fact that your grandma let some crazy moves loose on the dance floor that have been locked up for years. Let your day happen the way it should and don’t sweat the small stuff! There’s always going to be some sort of snag (literally or figuratively) in your wedding day and the best brides are the ones who can take it in stride and roll with it!

Marry Me

Dress Buying Tips by: Catherine Royka Women fantasize about the day when they try on their dream wedding gown. To be prepared and make this awaited day run as smoothly as possible, consider these tips:



Make an Appointment: It is best to call ahead of time to guarantee you will have assistance finding your dress. Try to avoid the weekends when you can, it can be best to go during the weekday when it is less crowded.



Wear Heels to the Appointment: Bring heels of about the same height that you would most likely wear on your wedding day, that way you can truly imagine how the dress will look on the big day.

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Shop with Enough Time: Generally, you should start browsing for a dress six months to a year before the wedding. That way, you have time to consider your options and can add in some buffer room if alterations need to be made.



Remember to Factor Other Items into Your Dress: Your budget for your dress may be $2,000 for example, but remember you’ll have extra expenses on top of this for your whole look. You may need alterations and you will need to factor in the cost for shoes, a veil and any other accessories you plan to have.



Don’t Try on a Dress Outside Your Budget: You know you are going to fall in love with it… so do not be tempted in the first place, do NOT try it on!



Keep an Open Mind: It may not look like your style, or maybe it looks a little odd on the hanger, but you never truly know what the dress looks like until you try it on.



Decide Carefully on Who You Want to Bring: Consider bringing a small group of three to five people – mother, mother-in-law, siblings or best friends. Having too many people there might drown out your thoughts and you may end up with no decision on a dress.



Visit Sample Sales or Trunk Shows: On a budget? You may score that dream dress with a pretty good discount. Bring a good crew and be prepared to scour the hangers quickly.

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Read the Fine Print: Before you dot the I’s and cross the T’s, make sure you review the contract carefully. You’ll want to have a number of things written down so you are prepared – write down your measurements, price of gown, size, date of delivery, designer and the deposit amount.



Buy a Dress that Fits Now: You may be focused on losing pounds before the big day, but your body won’t drastically change too much in that time frame. It’s also a lot easier to take a gown in than it is to make a small-dress work. You want to be comfortable and look flawless in your dress!

Marry Me

THE SYMBOL OF LOVE GUIDE TO BUYING THE PERFECT ENGAGEMENT RING COURTESY OF KING JEWELERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANJEANETTE ILLUSTRATION PHOTOGRAPHY

“Diamonds are one of the only wedding expenses with long-term value.”

Every proposal is unique, but the goal is universal. You want to choose a ring that suits her and one she’ll love. This guide is designed to give you clear, useful information about engagement and wedding rings, diamonds and hints for the proposal itself. Most men shop one to three months before buying the engagement ring. And usually for them, the budget is key. But remember gentlemen; the engagement ring will be the most significant gift you ever give her. We recommend various reputable sites online to research rings: adiamondisforever.com and gia.edu are good sources for diamond information, while preciousplatinum.com provides platinum specifics and gives an overview of popular ring styles. As part of the King Jewelers experience you

size, quality, clarity and cut of the gemstone determine the ring’s price and value. SETTING: Usually

will receive a lesson in diamonds and how to choose and design the perfect ring. Here are a few factors that are extremely important to have some understanding of going in. Knowing what to look for before you set foot in a jewelry store will make it much easier to walk away with a ring she truly wants. Start by knowing the basic components: CENTER STONE: The center stone

typically accounts for an overwhelming majority of the price of the ring. The

platinum or gold, the setting holds the stone/ stones and gives the ring its unique design. THE 4C’S OF DIAMONDS

The gemstone is the centerpiece of the ring, and the first thing people notice. Eightythree percent of all engagement rings have a diamond center stone. The quality, value and cost of a diamond are determined by “the 4Cs.” 1. CUT: The cut of a diamond refers to the angles, shapes and proportions of each diamond. A nicely cut diamond optimizes its natural radiance and brilliance by reflecting and refracting light back through the top of a diamond.

Pictured: Platinum 3-Stone Diamond Ring with 1.5ct Round Center Diamond and 1.93ct of Side Stone Diamonds from King Jewelers

Distinctively SouthernWedding 14

2. CARAT: The “carat” is a unit of

measurement used to weigh diamonds. Although a higher carat weight may increase its rarity and value, the cut, color and clarity of the diamond greatly impact the price. 3. COLOR: Diamonds are judged for their color, or lack thereof. In most cases, the whiter the diamond, the more valuable. The color of a diamond is classified and rated using a color scale, the most popular of which is from GIA, which proceeds in alphabetical order from D to Z, with D standing for “colorless” and Z for near-colorless with slight hints of yellow or brown. 4. CLARITY: A diamond’s clarity is rated by the number, size and position of inclusions (or flaws) it has. Inclusions, which give each diamond its uniqueness and are sometimes referred to as “nature’s fingerprints,” are usually not visible to the naked eye unless magnified. The fewer the inclusions, the more valuable the stone. DIAMOND SHAPES

Diamonds come in six basic shapes, although your jeweler may carry asscher, radiant or cushion shapes. A solitaire setting has a single center stone or diamond. It can be surrounded by other diamonds or precious gemstones, called side stones. Side stones can take the same six basic shapes, as well as Baguettes (rectangular) and Trillions (triangular). SETTING MATTERS

An engagement ring and wedding bands are subject to constant wear. These rings will be exposed to stress, chemicals, bumps and bangs. Therefore, choosing an enduring metal that holds stones securely and protects your investment is crucial. Platinum, white and yellow gold are the most common. WHAT SHE WANTS

Armed with the basics of gemstone, setting and finish, it’s time to create a blueprint for exactly which engagement ring will make your fiancée-to-be happiest. Obviously, the easiest way is to ask. But if you are set on surprising her, here are some foolproof ways to get

PLANNING THE PROPOSAL FOR A WOMAN, THE PROPOSAL IS A MOMENT SHE’S DREAMED OF AND IMAGINED. FOR A MAN, IT IS IMPORTANT TO GIVE HER THE PROPOSAL SHE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER. WHETHER YOU PLAN SOMETHING SPECTACULAR OR SOMETHING QUITE INTIMATE, THE FOLLOWING TIPS WILL HELP YOU CRAFT A VERY PERSONAL ENGAGEMENT. • WHAT IS MOST MEMORABLE ABOUT YOUR FIRST DATE? USE YOUR FIRST DATE, YOUR KISS OR THE FIRST TIME YOU SPOKE AS A BASIS OR THEME. • WHAT ARE HER FAVORITE THINGS? THINK OF PLACES, FOODS, COLORS, FLOWERS,

ACTIVITIES, MUSIC, MOVIES SHE LOVES AND INCORPORATE A FEW SPECIAL TOUCHES TO SHOW HOW WELL YOU KNOW HER. • INCLUDE LOVED ONES OR CLOSE FRIENDS.

measurements, preferences for stone and ring styles, and ideas for the overall design. HOW TO DETERMINE YOUR GIRLFRIEND’S RING SIZE

If you don’t know and don’t want to ask, try these suggestions. • Trace the inside of one of her rings onto paper. • Borrow one of her rings. • Put one of her rings on your finger and mark where it rests with a pen. • If her family members or friends can be discreet, get one of them to ask her. A jeweler can calculate ring size from any of these methods. TALK TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY

Women notice what other women like. Female friends and relatives are a good source for suggestions. WATCH FOR HINTS

Women often give clues about their preferences. Does she: • Admire someone else’s ring while you’re in earshot? (Or alternatively, does she dislike a specific style?). • Linger in front of jewelry store windows? • Leave magazines with jewelry pictures lying around? • Draw your attention to a ring in some off-handed way? Chances are, she’s subtly communicating what she has in mind.

• KEEP IT SIMPLE, MAKE IT FUN. SOME OF THE BEST PROPOSALS AREN’T ELABORATE. THEY INVOLVE AN INSIDE JOKE, A PAST EXPERIENCE OR A PRIVATE MEMORY THAT IS MEANINGFUL TO THE COUPLE.

CONSIDER HER TASTE

• Is she more traditional or modern? • Is she more “girly” or outdoorsy? • What kind of jewelry does she already own? Putting together a quick style profile and discussing it with a jeweler is a great way to focus on the right choices. DETERMINE A BUDGET

Most men research online. This allows you to cover a lot of ground, select styles and get a good idea of what your budget will buy. Generally, men spend about two months of their current salary. Most retailers provide financing. Ask what plans they offer. Or investigate specific loans for wedding and jewelry purchases offered by banks or credit unions. Your jeweler should provide warranty information. Generally, this includes a guarantee that the ring will maintain its shape and is free from any manufacturing defects, as well as a regular cleaning schedule. Ok, so you have made the purchase and you are guarding that small velvet box like Wells Fargo. Now its time to get down on one knee and pop the question! At the end of the day all that matters is that two people have committed to one another and joined their lives together. Let the ring be the symbol that completes a love story. “Our diamonds celebrate your sign of commitment,” King Jewelers.

Here Comes the Bride

Sumner’s Historic Sites as Wedding Venues BY RYAN BAKER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SUMNER COUNTY MUSEUM

So, your significant other has popped the question and you are gearing up to start planning your ‘best day ever.’ One of the most important decisions you and your spouse-to-be will make, other than the dress of course, will be the venue. And yes, gentlemen, your bride-to-be wants, and will value, your input and opinion throughout the wedding planning process. Just remember that if you’re not sure, a safe response always is: “I like the one you like best, dear.” One of the many wonderful aspects of living in Sumner County is its deep, rich history. In fact, Sumner County is home to many historic sites, with several of them also serving as wedding venues. Cragfont, Historic Rock Castle and Rose Mont are ready to meet all your wedding needs, along with Stonewall, property of the Sumner County Museum, coming soon! Cragfont will always have a special place in my heart as it hosted the ‘BakerBash’ in May of 2016. That’s right! My wife, Kim Baker, and I chose a historic property to serve as our wedding site. Cragfont was built between 1798 and 1802 by General James Winchester, who was a Brigadier General in the War of 1812. The home was built overlooking Bledsoe Creek in Castalian Springs just off what is now Highway 25. Cragfont is known for its beautiful gardens and gazebo where many ceremonies have taken place. Brides have even been known to arrive to the ceremony on a horse-drawn carriage. There is a permanent concrete floor that was installed just for a tent and reception area, but if you ask grounds-keeper Lowell he will tell you, “It just doesn’t rain on a bride at Cragfont.”

HISTORIC ROCK CASTLE

Next stop is down Indian Lake Boulevard in Hendersonville. There you will find Historic Rock Castle, former home of Virginian surveyor, Daniel Smith. Construction began in 1784 and is one of the few waterfront venues in Middle Tennessee. The home and property is perfect for weddings as it sits on eighteen acres right by Old Hickory Lake. The sunsets are simply breathtaking. Rock Castle also has its own wedding coordinator, Lindsay McMillan, who has that magic touch when it comes to making your special day, well, perfect. The Visitors Center has a room for the groom and his men and one for the bride and her bridesmaids to get ready in. Once dressed, the home and entire grounds are available to you for photographs. The ceremony can take place at several beautiful locations on the property including the front steps, down by the lake, or even in the woods. In fact, Rock Castle hosted its first ‘Wedding in the Woods’ this past October. You can finish off your day with your reception on site at the Artisan Pavilion, complete with caterer’s kitchen, fireplace, ceiling fans and restrooms. The next site is just a mile from downtown Gallatin’s historic square. Rose Mont was built in the 1830s by Josephus Conn Guild. The name Rose Mont stems from the once exquisite rose garden that was located on the north side of the home. The home is a blend of Greek Revival and Palladian design. The private bridal suite overlooks a

CRAGFONT AND GARDENS

Distinctively SouthernWedding 16

ROSE MONT

smaller replication of the original rose garden and the judge’s office is available for the groom and his men. Rose Mont’s façade features majestic white columns that connect the two-story veranda. The reception hall and ballroom can accommodate up to 175 guests and includes a kitchen and covered porch. Historic Rose Mont is another perfect venue for your special day. The final historic wedding venue stop is also located in Gallatin, just a couple blocks from the downtown square on East Main Street. Stonewall is the former home of John B. Garrott and was built in 1831 by Dr. Levi D. Ring, the headmaster of Transmontania Academy. Ring also built the Carriage House, which stands next to Stonewall, in 1939. Garrott, known for his dedication to historic preservation, founded the Sumner County Museum in the early 1970s. More recently, in 2015, he raised the funds to purchase the Carriage House to serve as the future home of STONEWALL the museum, along with donating his home to the museum as well. Stonewall has the potential to host a variety of events including weddings. Its façade includes four gorgeous white pillars, a front porch, and a veranda whose look is perfect for a wedding ceremony. Behind the home, you will find a garden area fit for a reception. Stay tuned for more information on this future wedding venue! These historic sites are all unique and each has something that distinguishes it from the others, but they all also have some things in common. These sites are very affordable, great for weddings, located near hotels for friends and family coming to town, and they are all in Sumner County. So, before you go out looking elsewhere, check out these great venues and plan your ‘best day ever,’ right here, in Sumner County.

I Do

Rebecca Bonham Bagby Drew Johnston Luna, Jr.

San Antonio, Texas is the place where this Franklin, Tennessee native, D.J. Luna, calls home. He found love in the form of a 5’2 spitfire Texan beauty, Rebecca Bagby. Set up on a blind date in April 2015 by their friends, Ginny and Daniel Quinn, D.J. was smitten with this intelligent beauty and yet what sealed the deal was her massive gun collection and her love of hunting.

PHOTOS BY ERICA SOFET

November 4, 2017

wedding dress. D.J.’s tuxedo was custom made by groomsman, Stephen Richards, owner of Richards Bespoke of Nashville, Tennessee. San Antonio Country Club catered Texas cuisine of fried quail, beef tenderloin and two whole roasted hogs for late night tacos. The groom’s cake, created by Cathy Young, was the state of Texas with the Tennessee flag overlaid and adorned with Rebecca and D.J. bobble heads and deer antlers.

D.J. is a 2009 graduate of Brentwood Academy and a 2013 graduate of Vanderbilt, where he played baseball. He has lived in San Antonio for five years and works for Conoco Phillips Oil Company. He is the son of Tina and Drew Luna. Rebecca is a graduate of Alamo Heights and Texas A & M. She works as an escrow officer at Independence Title. She is the daughter of Candy and Tom Bagby, Jr. Rebecca and D.J. were married in San Antonio at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. The formal wedding included gorgeous flowers by Danny Cuellar of Trinity Flowers. The photographer, Erica Sofet captured every moment. The wedding planner, Sweet August Events, did an excellent job of coordinating 400 plus guests, twenty bridesmaids and twenty groomsmen. The best man was D.J’s brother, Jay Luna. Brooke O’Neal, Rebecca’s sister, was the matron of honor. Rebecca wore a Rivini

As the guests entered San Antonio Country Club, the reception began in Texas style with shots of tequila and mountain oysters. The first band was Jose Amador and the Tera Novas with salsa dancers to entertain the crowd. The second band, Liquid Pleasure from East Coast Entertainment rocked the party through the night. Sombreros were passed around on the dance floor. To include a bit of Tennessee, Elvis made his appearance handing out scarves. Winding down the night, the couple escaped in a silver 1964 Bentley from Elegant Transportations to a two-week honeymoon to Tahiti and Bora Bora. They live in San Antonio, Texas.

Marry Me

Questions to Ask You r Wedding Floral Designer Your Vision, Your Style,

Your Day!

BY ALYSSA DICICCO

If you’re like me, you might admire flowers, love having them in your house and wish you could have a beautiful garden in your backyard. But, you may not know the right questions to ask when ordering flowers - especially if it’s for your wedding! The good news is I work with many floral designers here in the area and have asked them what brides need to know about ordering their wedding flowers. So, whether you want flowers dripping from every corner of your wedding venue or if you’re more of a minimalist, these questions will help guide you in the right direction when meeting with your wedding florist. There are so many great wedding florists and designers in our area! So, do your research and see which florist might work the best with you and for your wedding. Knowing the season, experience level and familiarity your florist has with executing your vision is key in the hiring process! I’ll let the experts take it from here with their list of the most helpful questions to ask your wedding florist.

Gorgeous farm for outdoor weddings and events with southern charm and an elegant venue. Sit back and lounge around the beautiful “Rock Creek” pond, relax and watch horses grazing or enjoy the party and dance the night away. We offer All-Inclusive Wedding & Reception packages or let us create a “Custom” package specifically designed for you!

Questions to Ask You r Wedding Flor ist 1. Have you provided flowers at my chosen ceremony and reception location before? If not, are you familiar with the site/sites?

6. What flowers are in season for the month I am getting married? Can I get the flowers I want? Will it be more expensive for flowers not in season?

2. Where did you receive your training to work with flowers and how long have you and your designers been working with flowers?

7. How far in advance of my wedding will you create bouquets and arrangements and how are they kept fresh?

3. How many weddings will you schedule on the same day or same weekend? If there are multiple weddings you do on one day/weekend, how will that be structured so I know my wedding will get the attention it needs?

8. Is there an extra fee if I need you to stay throughout the ceremony to move arrangements to the reception site?

4. What design styles do you primarily work with in your floral designs? 5. What recommendations can you give me to help me maximize my budget?

9. Will you provide me with an itemized list of all the elements we’ve discussed along with pricing for each element and flowers to be used in bouquets, etc.? 10. What are your payment terms?

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Rock Creek Farm 475 Dry Fork Creek Road | Gallatin, TN 615.451.6811 rockcreekfarmnashville.com

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Corners You Shouldn’t Cut At Your Wedding BY ALYSSA DICICCO

Let’s face it, weddings are expensive. But think about this, it’s the biggest party you will ever throw in your life. And it’s the most important and memorable day of your life as well. A word of advice is, don’t skimp on your wedding day. You don’t want to look back on your day thinking of what you should have done differently. Yes, there are elements of your wedding that are more important to you than others, so pick your top three must-have choices and spend your money on those things. As a wedding blogger in middle Tennessee, I eat, sleep and dream about weddings in our area 24/7. Here are my tips for what corners you should not cut at your wedding. PLANNING I cannot stress enough how important it is to hire a wedding planner. They will guide you through the entire wedding planning process and recommend the perfect vendors that match your budget and style. Why research aimlessly on the internet when you can get sound advice from an expert on which vendors are reputable and will make your day go smoothly? A planner will also keep your day stressfree and handle any small hiccups that may come up on your wedding day. Trust me, you’ll have enough on your mind come wedding day. You should be focusing on your vows and the meaning of the day, not how many chair ties your rental company left off of your order. Leave it to the professionals. PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY What element of your wedding will last you throughout the years? Your wedding photos and video! This is one area you definitely do not want to skimp on. Hiring a professional photographer and videographer who have a classic feel to their work will ensure your wedding memories will last through the ages. Some couples choose to forego a videographer due to budget constraints, but do not do this, you will regret it. My wedding video is one of the most precious things to me from our wedding day and we watch it over and over again year after year on our anniversary. Your day goes by in the blink of an eye, so having a “real-time” way of viewing your wedding throughout the years is key. Plus, your kids will want to watch it when they’re older.

FOOD Photography and videography are memorable to you, but what is most memorable to your guests? The food! Hiring a professional caterer who specializes in weddings is key to making your wedding cuisine stand out. Offer a full meal to your guests. Many of them have probably spent money traveling out to your wedding and also on your wedding gift. The least you can do for them is offer good quality food and lots of it. ENTERTAINMENT A DJ or band can make or break your wedding reception. Again, this is why hiring professionals is key! You’ll want someone who understands your musical style and can really get the party going. There’s nothing more disappointing than a DJ who talks more than playing amazing tunes. Or a wedding with an iPod hooked up… just don’t. Who will announce you two as a couple? Who will keep everything on time and in order during your wedding reception? Your band or DJ. Do your research and get great recommendations from your planner and reputable websites like mine (nashvillebrideguide.com!) You’ll want your guests to walk away saying your wedding was such a fun party and they had a blast. Let’s not leave them falling asleep at their seats! All in all, the wedding is all about you as a couple. Creating a scene that really speaks volumes on who you are is so important. Keep these tips in mind when you are planning your wedding. What memories do you want to walk away with and what memories do you want your guests to walk away with? Splurge on these elements and save on the rest of them. Cutting corners will only make your day more stressful and less memorable.

Distinctively SouthernWedding 20

Marry Me

Where Do I Register for My Wedding? As a bride, you may have squirrel syndrome like I did - you like towels from a local boutique, flatware from Target and you’d absolutely love those custom napkin rings from Etsy. When I got married in 2011, online registries where you could curate your own customized list were almost unheard of. But now there are lots of sites online where you can register for anything you could ever dream of and come up with your own personalized registry list! Do you want to start crowdfunding for your honeymoon? There’s a site for that. Do you want to bulk up your home bar? There’s a registry site for that! Stuck on what to add to your list? Many of these sites have built in lists from other couples getting married. So let’s get down to it, what should you add to your registry? And how many of each item do I need? Here’s a couple of dos and don’ts for your registry. DO THINK ABOUT QUANTITIES. When you start, think about your place settings in particular. How many people would you likely have over for dinner? Will you be hosting lots of holiday parties for your family and extended family? Once you determine the average number of people you would like a place setting for, this will then determine the quantity of china, flatware and glassware pieces you should have on your registry. DO THINK ABOUT STORAGE AND NECESSITY. Do you have cabinets upon cabinets in your kitchen? Lots of pantry storage space? If not, you might want to think twice about registering for that large wine cooler. The best advice is to envision your home with the items you’re registering for, especially in your kitchen. Where will you store these items and how often will you use them? This will help you think twice before adding three types of vacuums to your list! DO THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX. These days many couples are already established in their careers and in turn,

RYANTOLBERTPHOTOGRAPHY

BY ALYSSA DICICCO

“The best advice is to envision your home with the items you’re registering for, especially in your kitchen.”

established in their homes. So for someone who already owns nice pots and pans, kitchenware and more, what do you register for? The good news is - options are out there! Want to register for money towards your honeymoon? Check. What about cash to use however you please? Check. Want to give back to a charity with your wedding registry? Getting creative with gifting is all the rage (and it’s not going anywhere!). Need some help? Sites like Zola, Thirstynest and Honeyfund are great places to start. DON’T BE AFRAID TO ADD BIG-TICKET ITEMS. Have you had your eye on that gorgeous couch from West Elm? What about that new kitchen table from Restoration Hardware? Add it to your registry! Your friends and family may be looking to pool their money and go in on a big gift for the two of you, so giving them some options to do so is great! Many retail stores even offer you a 10 percent discount once you complete your registry. DON’T FALL FOR CURRENT TRENDS. Okay, remember when juicers were having a moment a few years back? Everyone had to have one! The only thing is that it was big and bulky and time consuming... where is your juicer now? Is it on Craigslist or sitting in the very back of your cabinet? And think about it - have you always been into juices or were you falling for the trend? Think about registering for items you will love for years to

Distinctively SouthernWedding 22

come. I still have my classic ivory dishware and stainless steel basic flatware six years later and I still love it. DON’T REGISTER FOR MULTIPLES OF THE SAME ITEM. Are you completely torn between two colors of KitchenAid mixers and cannot decide which one you like best, so you add both to your list? Well, here’s my advice to you - only add one. You don’t want to receive both mixers and have to return one of them after your wedding. Choosing your items carefully will help you avoid multiple trips to the store or the post office to make returns. Now that you have some tips for choosing your registry items, go ahead and start your registry. Happy planning!

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TIPS TO A

Kid-Friendly Wedding BY GINGER JONES

There are a lot of decisions that a bride has to make about her wedding day. Choosing flowers, bridesmaids and the perfect dress can bring on a lot of stress, and deciding whether or not to have children can add a whole other layer of worry. If you do decide to make your big day kid-friendly, here are a few simple tips to help: If you’d like to keep it a mostly adult wedding but there are a few little ones who are special to you (a niece or nephew, maybe a goddaughter or godson), there’s an easy solution to include just them: Give them a job! Make your nephew a ring bearer or your best friend’s daughter your flower girl. That way you can have those kids who are special to you there on the day without other parents wondering why they had to find a sitter. Are you opening up your wedding to all of your guests’ kids? Try having a kids table. Kids won’t be impressed by your fancy buffet or your elegant meals, but they will be entertained by a table that has grilled cheese and coloring books! Kids love treats, so you could make goodie bags for them to take home at the end of the night. The parents may not appreciate the sugar rush, but the little ones will! You could also get a few on site nannies. This could be older kids that you know, or someone you hire from an agency. They could sit with the kids at their table, or you could have a separate room for the kids to go to, like a built-in daycare at your wedding. Your venue should be able to help you here – ask them if they have any rooms that would work for a daycare! The same nannies could watch the kids during your ceremony to keep the crying and squirming to a minimum while you say your vows. Is your wedding going to be outside? You could have an area with fun games like corn hole. The bonus to this is the adults will enjoy it, too! You should also inform your DJ that the wedding is going to include kids, so they may need to alter the playlist for the reception. There are a lot of ways to accommodate having kids at your wedding, and parents are always understanding when a wedding is off-limits to their kids. They may appreciate a night out on their own! Whatever you decide, it will be the happiest day of your life.

Ginger Geldreich Jones, M.A., CCC-SLP, LSLS Cert AVT | Speech-Language Pathologist, Certified Auditory Verbal Therapist Founder, CEO | Jones Therapy Services, LLC | 615.614.8833 jonestherapyservices.com

Distinctively SouthernWedding 24

Happily Ever After

FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR

Newlyweds

BY JONATHAN WALKER

Congrats if you are getting married! One of the best books for couples (in my opinion) is Gary Chapman’s The 5 Love Languages. Financially speaking, there should be a money counterpart. Learning how you and your spouse will relate to money as one, takes time. Here are five items you can implement that will help you learn your spouse’s financial love languages while combining things financially. It can also help avoid the pitfalls that can easily take place concerning money in your marriage. Create a budget. A budget is one of the best tools for financial success. It’s easy to set one up, and there are a number of free online tools you can use. To help ease the tension of “new couple” spending, set a purchase limit. Over time, you will learn more about how your spouse relates to money by using a budget. Set financial goals. It’s a good habit to start setting goals immediately. Write them down and review them often. Set short, mid and long-range goals. Start with $3,000 in an emergency fund.

Making your forever beautiful. 347 MAIN STREET | FRANKLIN, TN | 615.595.2323 THEREGISTRYFRANKLIN.COM

Have budget meetings often. My wife and I have quarterly budget meetings. It’s important to discuss your financial goals; the amount of debt you each have and what goals you want to accomplish. Maybe one of you fell short in your responsibilities monetarily – this is a good time to discuss that as well. Update beneficiary information. This could include life insurance, 401k plans, IRA accounts and beneficiaries in legal documents. Postpone the home purchase. Even if you have dated a long time, marriage comes with adjustments and these adjustments can be stressful. Take a little time to get to know each other and let your marriage settle. Have some fun! You need to get your financial goals in order first, then you can look at a home purchase down the road. If you want to explore this further, feel free to give our Gallatin, Tennessee office a call at 615.461.8653, or check us out at paulwinkler.net. We can set up a free initial consultation to determine if our office can help you with your current situation.

Your History Begins Here.

The Perfect Location for your rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony or reception!

Until next month, Jonathan Walker, CFP®, RICP® *Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc. (“PWI”), a Registered Investment Advisor. PWI does not provide tax or legal advice; please consult your tax or legal advisor regarding your particular situation. This information is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed to be a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any securities.

JONATHAN WALKER

We’re in the Money | paulwinkler.net Jonathan is a Certified Financial Planner™, and passionate about financial planning. His focus is to help clients achieve peace concerning their financial well-being by helping them accomplish their planning goals and objectives.

Contact our Rentals Department • 615.832.8197 rentals@historictravellersrest.org www.travellersrestplantation.org

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The Wedding Roles BY KRISTA EHRET

So, your daughter/son/best friend is getting married. After the excitement of the engagement settles, it’s time for planning. As an important figure of this event it can sometimes feel like you’re walking a tightrope of knowing how to be helpful without being overly opinionated. Here’s a helpful breakdown of some common wedding roles and how to be the best of each. MOTHER OF THE BRIDE Working in the wedding industry for several years, I’ve noticed this being one of the most difficult of all the roles. Many women have the best intentions, but sometimes cause more stress than necessary. Start by evaluating your daughter’s personality. Does she like to be in control? Is she interested in the planning, or more focused on getting married? Do you both have the same taste when it comes to décor? Even better, ask her what she would like your role to be. Sounding board, decision maker, check writer, etc. This may sound harsh, but the best piece of advice I have is for you to remember that you have had your wedding and this one is about your daughter and future son-in-law. You may not agree with the reception being in a barn or serving tacos as the meal. Voice your honest opinion when asked, but otherwise be respectful of their decisions. PARENTS OF THE GROOM If you’ve had a daughter get married prior to your son, this news will come much easier to you. Your traditional role is to plan the rehearsal dinner, show up in approved attire for the wedding, offer to pay for the bride’s bouquet, and that’s about it. The bride and groom may ask you to be a part of the wedding planning, but they may not. Try not to offer too much unsolicited advice and be supportive of the couple’s decisions. Most importantly, be respectful of the guest list. This is one of the hardest parts of planning a wedding and it can be quite daunting. Unless you are paying for the food and alcohol, understand that you may not be able to invite every person on your list. Each additional guest directly impacts the budget and many venues have restrictions on how many guests are allowed.

MAID OF HONOR OR BEST MAN You’re likely the best friend or sibling of the betrothed. Whether carefully selected or titled by default, this is an honorable role and you shouldn’t take it too lightly. Getting married is a wonderful, but stressful and emotional time for most. Your job is to keep stress levels low and be an advocate for the bride or groom. If there are family members or friends who cause blood pressure spikes, it’s your job to run interference and keep them away, especially on the wedding day. You will also be in charge of the bachelor/bachelorette party and possibly play a leading role in planning a wedding shower. Don’t complain, be supportive and nicely encourage the rest of the wedding party to follow suit. BRIDESMAID OR GROOMSMAN Congratulations, the bride or groom has decided they want to share their special time with you. Know that this is a fun, but often pricey role and consider this before accepting. Once you’re in, be all in. Offer help in any way you can: stuffing envelopes, putting favors together, etc. If invited to go dress shopping, be kind and take your cues from the bride. You may not be a fan of ball gown style bridal gowns or chartreuse bridesmaid dresses, but if she loves them, smile and quietly sip your champagne. On the day of, remember you are not the center of attention. If your hair isn’t exactly right or you get poked with the boutonnière pin, suck it up. This may sound harsh, but whiny bridal party members are a pet peeve. Be the first one on the dance floor, grin through the hours of photos and help make their day a wonderful one. No matter your role, the common idea is respect and support. Keep the focus where it should be and try your best not to induce additional stress. This is a wonderful time in the life of someone very special to you. Make the process as wonderful and memorable for them as you can. You’ll enjoy your role much more this way too!

I Do

Valen Johnson &Griffin Wilcoxon April 8,2017

The wedding venue the happy couple picked was The Lodge in Nashville. It is a gorgeous building surrounded by trees, man-made creeks and waterfalls. The building where

the ceremony was hosted was a large, openspace with floor to ceiling windows showing off the natural beauty. There was a quaint, outdoor ceremony then the reception inside where the party began. Valen and her father, Troy, danced to “I’ll Be There” by The Jackson 5. Griffin and his mom, Wendy, danced to “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole. Valen and Griffin had their first dance to “Maybe I’m Amazed” by Paul McCartney. The reception was exactly what they hoped for. Everyone was on the dance floor and moving like crazy.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA LAUREN PHOTOGRAPHY

Griffin Wilcoxon met Valen Johnson while he was working at Disney when she came to visit her brother, who was a good friend of Griffin’s. After a while, they started dating long-distance before they both moved to Nashville in 2015. Then Griffin took Valen back to Disney with both families under the ruse of a graduation celebration, but instead, Griffin had a secret plan to propose at the Magic Kingdom in front of Cinderella’s Castle. Griffin lined up a photographer and made it through a couple shots before the photographer asked if he had another pose he wanted to try. Then, Griffin got down on one knee and asked the very romantic question “Hey, you wanna get married?” There were tears and cheers and thankfully, Valen said “Yes!” To celebrate, Valen and Griffin spent five days in Disney’s Baylake Tower with a wonderful view of the castle during their stay.

After the reception, they stayed at Gaylord Opryland before traveling to their honeymoon destination at the beautiful Coco Plum Resort in Belize. Griffin was able to explore Mayan Ruins and Valen could cave tube. They also took advantage of the body boards and kayaks that the island offered. They made friends and memories that will last a lifetime.

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Marry Me

Jay Qualls

LOCAL CELEBRITY WEDDING CAKE DESIGNER STACKS UP TO THE BEST BY ANNA ROBERTSON HAM

When it comes to wedding cakes, there is a name in the industry that stands out among the rest. Jay Qualls is renowned for his creations, which have been sought after by not only middle Tennesseans, but throughout the country, including celebrities such as Reba McEnitre, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Jo Dee Messina, Sara Evans, Blake Shelton and Faith Hill, to name a few. “When I started out decorating cakes full-time as a full-scale business, I wanted to be recognized as a wedding cake designer. One of my favorite creations was the pink heart themed wedding cake I produced in collaboration with Martha Stewart Weddings 15th Anniversary Edition of the magazine. That was my first publication,” explains Jay. “I enjoyed producing this cake as it pushed my skill set beyond the limits of anything I knew was possible. It opened many doors for me and

allowed me to go on and create many of the country artists’ wedding cakes. One of my favorite’s was creating Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton’s wedding cake. It was truly an artistic collaboration.”

Jay has been featured in numerous national publications and wedding blogs, such as Martha Stewart Weddings, US Weekly, People Magazine, Southern Living Weddings, Town & Country Weddings, InStyle Weddings, The Know and many more. He has also been seen on some of your favorite television shows - ABC’s The Taste, TLC’s Next Great Baker and Extreme I Do’s and Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen. So, it is obvious that Jay’s work truly speaks for itself and has an incredible following. We love his work too… as one of Jay’s cake creations adorns our inaugural issue cover. Can you believe it is a real cake?! Jay’s talent and passion came from falling in love with cake decorating after he decorated his daughter’s first birthday cake in April of 1992. “I didn’t really know what I was doing, but I had an art teacher in middle school who I was friends with that decorated cakes and I asked

her how to make the frosting to decorate the cakes that she made,” explains Jay. “After decorating my daughter’s first cake in 1992, people started asking me to do it. At first, I was doing it for friends and family as a hobby.” His first company, Maples Wedding Cakes, opened in 2005 and then he started A Frosted Affair, A Jay Qualls Boutique Cakery in 2014 in Nashville. “I graduated college in 2003 and decided to put my new degree to work and open my first full-scale bakery in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. I went on to focus on wedding cakes and groom’s cakes, as this is where my passion led me,” says Jay. “My goal was to be known for producing beautiful wedding cakes.” He is also well-known for being an inventor of “Fondant Fabric.” His love for creating beautiful and delicious cakes is continuously passed on, as he enjoys consulting and teaching cooking classes.

CAKE PHOTOS BY NIKKI HOLLIS PHOTOGRAPHY

As you can imagine, Jay stays steadily immersed in cake, especially certain times of the year. “During a busy season, when we were doing wedding cakes, grooms cakes and celebration cakes, we would produce anywhere from twenty to thirty-five cakes a week plus cupcakes, cookies, cake pops, brownies and other desserts. Lately, we have focused mostly on wedding cakes. We typically will do anywhere from eight to twelve wedding cakes a week which translates to approximately 500 wedding cakes a year,” Jay says. With all of that cake surrounding him, you would probably think he is over cake... but he is far from that! When we asked him what his favorite cake was, he said, “I would have probably said carrot cake with cream cheese frosting, but my husband recently made me a traditional old-fashioned oatmeal cake that was divine. Simply one of the most delicious cakes I’ve ever had in my life, and I have had a lot of cake!”

“A custom cake is a luxury for many people. It is very important to me to always give my customer my full attention and create something unique to that person.”

Jay knows that every wedding and every person is unique in what they want for their special day and occasion. He prides himself on truly listening and discussing the design to get a feel for what the person or couple envisions. “A custom cake is a luxury for many people. It is very important to me to always give my customer my full attention and create something unique to that person. Sometimes navigating that is not always easy, but ninety-nine percent of the time we hit a homerun and the customer is thrilled,” he says. “Recently, I have focused my efforts on the business of this industry. I travel around the country and teach what I know and have learned to other people who want to potentially open a brick-and-mortar custom bakery, or hobbyists who want to grow their business in their residential kitchens. I am entertaining the idea of doing more television, possibly a judging competition and continue to work on a self-help book on how to run a small boutique bakery business,” Jay says. “I would like to encourage anyone who has a dream to just do what they want to do and be happy in their profession. I never dreamed when I started this in 1992 that I would be able to go, do, see and meet these incredible people, all because of cake. I never imagined that I would get to work with Martha Stewart, some of the most famous country music artists, that I love and respect, and go to some of the most exotic places I’ve ever seen, all because of my craft. It has been an amazing experience in many ways and I work with some of the most conscientious and hard-working people I’ve ever known in my life.” To see more of Jay’s work and for ordering information, visit thefrostedaffairbyjayqualls.com.

Marry Me

When booking your wedding caterer, it’s something you need to physically be present to do so you can taste the food and meet with the team. But what are the steps in booking your wedding tasting? Let’s talk about all the ins and outs of what happens during the tasting with your caterer and what information you will need to know prior to booking your tasting.

TO T A WH AT T C E G EXP N I D ED W R YOU NG I R E CAT NG I T S TA

BEFORE YOU BOOK YOUR TASTING When it’s time to book your wedding tasting, it’s usually six months to a year prior to your wedding. Keep in mind that many caterers prefer to book appointments during the week as they have weddings and events happening on the weekends. So be sure to request a long lunch break or ask to leave work a bit early to fit your tasting into your schedule. Your caterer will have some questions for you up front before you book your tasting such as: • How many people will be attending the tasting? • Do you have any special requests as far as cuisine? • Do you have any food allergies? • When and where are you getting married? • How many guests are you expecting? Also, expect to pay for your tasting, about $25 per person at some local catering companies. If you book with them, usually this fee will be discounted in your wedding catering package. So do your research beforehand and choose two to three of your top catering choices and get recommendations from your venue manager, friends and other local resources. Once you’ve booked a tasting appointment, plan to be there for about an hour-and-a-half to two hours. The time frame will really depend on how many guests you are bringing to your tasting. DURING YOUR TASTING What can you expect to be served at your tasting? Really, the only rule is to come hungry! Chefs normally like to create an array of

small portions for you to try some of their most popular food items. They’ll also get a bit creative and put their own spin on what they think will work within your dietary restrictions and menu suggestions. Expect to try hors d’oeuvres, sample entrées, sides and desserts.

ICICC

D YSSA BY AL

What is the process like when you sit down at your wedding catering tasting? Normally, you’ll start with drinks and conversation and make sure everyone is comfortable to begin the food experience. The chef or server will come out with either individual or shareable platters to the table that will come in courses, typically beginning with hors d’oeuvres and ending with desserts. The catering sales manager will sit (and sometimes eat) with you and present each item and its ingredients. At times, the tasting becomes a bit more casual as sales managers can come and go and check in as needed with you and your guests. At the end of your tasting, you’ll typically meet the chef and the catering manager will take down notes of items you liked most and want on your wedding menu. Remember, this is your wedding menu, so suggest any changes or substitutions you may want on your big day. Depending on the caterer and what ingredients they have on hand, they may whip up some extra goodies for you at this point that are specific to your tastes. At this point, you should have a better understanding of what the caterer can provide and what you like and dislike. Once you’ve decided on a caterer, you’ll want to sign a contract and get on their calendar right away, especially if you are getting married during peak wedding months. Don’t feel pressured to make this decision on the spot at your tasting. Take time to talk about it with your mate and decide what is best for you taste-wise and price-wise. From there, you’ll know you’ll be in good hands, that your food will be something your guests will talk about and more importantly you will enjoy on your big day.

All you need is love…and a caterer. BY JIM HAGY, OWNER OF CHEF’S MARKET

We recently celebrated 20 years in business at Chef’s Market, and I’ve lost count of the thousands of incredible weddings we’ve had the privilege of catering. This particular wedding season, I have the honor of playing a new role in the wedding planning process – father-of-the-bride. As we’ve planned my daughter’s wedding, I am reminded of how the barrage of information can be overwhelming, making the planning experience stressful and exhausting. I’m proud that at Chef’s Market, our approach is to start the process by first interviewing a couple to uncover their visions, saving them from being overwhelmed with too many options when we present our proposal. As you begin thinking about your vision for your big day, here are some helpful hints to consider: Make room for the groom. Grooms are now more interested in the details –

especially the food! Including them in the process will make your wedding day even more special, as you see your hard work as a couple displayed in the details. Girls just wanna have fun – and the guys too! We love when the menu also showcases personalization, such as paying homage to your or your fiancée’s hometown (perhaps peach cobbler for your Georgian man rather than cake) or having an ice-cream sundae bar if your first date was over a banana split. Get back Jack! More than ever, busy couples expect quick responses to their inquiries. We pair our couples with an event specialist that works alongside you throughout the planning and into the big day to ensure initial visions are executed flawlessly. On top of the personal attention, we’ve added a chat bot to our website to

PHOTO BY KRISTYN HOGAN

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allow for immediate responses. Less is the new more. We love seeing the unique ways that brides and grooms make the big day their very own, and we have a blast creating an experience beyond the plate that reflects the personality of each couples’ relationship. Chef’s Market Catering & Restaurant is a full-service catering company that has been voted as #1 Caterer in Nashville for the past seven consecutive years. 900 Conference Drive Goodlettsville, TN 37072 615.851.2433 chefsmarket.com

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ALTERNATIVES TO REHEARSAL DINNERS BY KRISTA EHRET

The rehearsal dinner in its authentic form is the ritual of feeding all family and bridal party members who are required to attend the wedding rehearsal. In current days, this dinner has exploded into its own event where all too many times the guest list and budget rivals that of the wedding itself. Another issue is that many modern-day venues will book weddings on Thursdays and Fridays which prevents the rehearsal from happening the night before. You may be forced to schedule your rehearsal in the morning or even have it the day of the wedding. If you have had any complications arise, or are just looking to branch away from the norm, here are some ideas to consider in lieu of the traditional post-rehearsal meal.

SIGHTSEEING TOURS Middle Tennessee has recently become a very popular spot for destination weddings. Due to the surplus of awesome venues and vendors, the growing Nashville scene, and being centrally located within the country, it’s easy to see the appeal. If the majority of your guests are out-of-towners, why not show them the sights? Depending on where everyone is staying, the Country Music Hall of Fame, Belle Meade Plantation, Ryman Auditorium, The Hermitage and The Frist Center are all great options. There are also tons of guided bus tours that allow the guests to see several landmarks in a shorter amount of time.

BEER, WINE OR WHISKEY TASTING If you have a group that enjoys a little libation, this is a great option as there are many distilleries, vineyards and breweries in our area. Tickets average around $8 per person, so it’s definitely a cheaper route than providing an entire dinner. With that money saved, you may consider providing transportation so that guests can all ride together and be safe. Similarly, there are wine tours that will valet your party around to different vineyards and to lunch. This is an all-day event and will be more on the pricey side. GET SPORTY If you prefer to be up and moving versus wining and dining, think of alternatives that get the blood pumping. Top Golf is a new Nashville hot spot that can accommodate large or small groups. Price wise, you may come out about the same per person as a sit-down dinner, but this includes the playing fee. Bowling, Line Dancing Classes and Pedal Taverns are other fun options. Going to a Nashville Sounds game is another idea that is very affordable and family-friendly. BRUNCH, BARBECUE AND BACKYARDS If due to venue restrictions you need to have your rehearsal at an odd time of day, just go with it and enjoy the opportunity to create a unique experience. Everyone loves brunch and you’re likely to come out much cheaper on the bill. I am not opposed to an at home event, but will tell you to please not host this at the bride, groom, or parents’ home. Try to find a good friend or family member who is willing to host the event, but isn’t tied as closely to the wedding the next day. You’ll have enough going on without needing to clean the house from top to bottom. Casual backyard barbecues or pool parties are a great way to relax and diffuse any jitters. Don’t feel confined to the traditional idea of what a rehearsal dinner should or shouldn’t be. Think about what you will enjoy the most and what allows you to visit with those friends and family who are sharing this special moment with you.

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Marry Me

Ways to Personalize Your Wedding

BY ALYSSA DICICCO

Hooray - you’re engaged! It’s seriously one of the best times in your life, so don’t let it be stressful. I know, from booking your venue, to creating your guest list, to picking out the perfect dress the to-do list seems endless. Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in checking off the boxes, but the most important part is to not lose who you are as a couple in your wedding. After all, this is the one day you get to do YOU and make your wedding stand out in the best way possible.

These initial questions will help you pick out some personalized items to make the day truly yours! Here are my picks for five ways to personalize your wedding day:

REBECCA DENTON PHOTOGRAPHY

FAMILY HEIRLOOMS Did your great grandmother keep her wedding veil? Does your mom own a sought-after pearl necklace? If family is really important to you, then it’s really important to utilize family heirlooms that will make your wedding one-of-a-kind! Have fun perusing through your mother’s jewelry box to get the most out of melding your taste with those priceless treasures. Also, honoring loved ones who have passed away by framing a photo of them on your gift table or even tying a photo locket to your bouquet can make sweet sentiments on your big day.

LANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Here are some questions to think about: Where did you meet? What is your favorite food? What are your hobbies or things you like to do together? Do you like to party or are you bookworms? What is your general vibe as a couple?

WEDDING FAVORS Do you have out-of-town guests traveling to your wedding? Introduce them to Nashville’s culture through your wedding favors! From Goo Goo Clusters to personalized cowboy boot koozies, brides have made their guests feel at home (away from home) at their Music City wedding.

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CREATIVE GUEST TABLES If you’re numbering your guest tables, this is the perfect way to get a little creative! What are your favorite places you like to go? Name each table after one of those places - Puckett’s, Sevier Park, the possibilities are endless! A local calligrapher can also create custom signage for your wedding from thank you letters to menu cards, there are so many ways to get creative at your guest tables.

SHEA PHOTOGRAPHY

AMANDA MAY PHOTOGRAPHY

How do you make your wedding stand out? By adding personalized elements! Think about what elements would represent the two of you and don’t leave them out of your wedding.

JUSTIN WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

FAVORITE FOOD Did you grow up eating a certain type of ice cream in the summer? Were you born in a coastal city where fresh seafood is a huge hit? Then you’ll want to be sure these food items are added to your menu. Late night snacks like Chicago-style hot dogs or specialty ice cream are perfect for guests to get an unexpected treat before they leave!

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS Are you an expert in cross-stitch? Sew something fun for your guests to enjoy or stitch a hidden message under your dress to add some personality to your day. Bonus points if you bedazzle or craft something cute and fun on your wedding shoes! If you’re artsy, add some pizzazz to your reception with a unique photo booth backdrop or art installation to add a focal point your guests will not forget.

All in all, your day is about you. It’s your one chance to show your personality through the biggest party you’ll ever throw. Your guests will truly appreciate the charming, small details of your day that will give them something to talk about for years to come.

I Do

Rachael McCampbell Curtis Stewart October 21, 2017

Since their theme was Country Elegance with a dash of Scotland, they were wed the next day in a field by a bridge over a creek where a bagpiper piped the guests to their hay bale seats. The groom wore a tweed jacket, jeans and boots with the Royal Stewart tartan necktie. His daughters followed suit with the same tartan shawls. Rachael and her son represented the Campbell clan with his tartan necktie and her Luckenbooth Brooch from Scotland — a gift from a Nova Scotian friend. The bride was delivered to the wedding spot in their 1949 red truck named Lucille, wearing a Vera Wang dress with a thrift store jacket, a borrowed belt and beat up riding boots. Pastor Betty, from Hillsboro United Methodist Church in Leiper’s Fork, presided, and the bride and groom shared how they met and what it

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meant to find each other later in life. Their adult children each spoke about “Love, Faith and Courage.” The music, some of it original, by Leslie Satcher and Mac Davis was beautiful and there was even a nod to Italy with Jason and DeMarco’s gorgeous rendition “The Prayer” in Italian and English. It was magical! Festivities followed the wedding with a cocktail party beneath the trees then dinner, toasts and dancing in the tent. Jim ‘n Nicks provided BBQ chicken and brisket and all the fixin’s. “Rachel Make My Cake” created a beautiful almond cake that a friend decorated with ivy and fall flowers. The DJ was Nashville Party Authority and the tent rental, tables, chairs, dishes etc., was DJ’s Party Rentals in Columbia, Tennessee. Rachael’s hair was done by Lisa Gardner with Studio Gavin, Franklin and the photographer was Janelle Elise.

PHOTOS BY JANELLE ELISE

Curtis memorized his marriage proposal in Italian and dropped to one knee on a fall evening in Tuscany to deliver it. With their friends inside the villa waiting to uncork the Champagne, a surprised Rachael answered “Si!” A year later, on October 21, 2017, Curtis and Rachael tied the knot on a private farm in Leiper’s Fork. The night before the wedding, they held a creek party, thanks to their dear friends who threw it for them, at the bride’s home with tables and chairs in and around the creek. The Howlin’ Brothers played bluegrass and a fire dancer twirled flames in the water.

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Wedding Budget Blasters AND HOW TO AVOID THEM

BY KRISTA EHRET

After the glow of becoming engaged starts to wear off, there is a universal shift to a slight amount of stress in the form of, “a wedding costs HOW much?!?” It can be quite a shock to someone who has never planned a wedding, or hasn’t planned one since 1984. The average cost of a wedding in Nashville is around $25,000. While this seems like an exorbitant amount of money for one day, it actually can go quicker than you think. This is why it pays to be savvy with your decision making. Here are some details that can easily blow your budget and how to get around them.

Guest Count

Your guest list is the number one thing to consider when looking at your budget. This affects the obvious things such as invitations, food and alcohol. But this also will determine how many chairs you have to rent, how many centerpieces you need, and how large your cake will have to be. A great rule of thumb is if you wouldn’t invite them over to your home for dinner, don’t invite them to your special day.

Flowers

You’ve seen pictures of that harmless barrel with flowers cascading down it, or that garland centerpiece stuffed with peonies. Pinterest is a blessing and a curse and way too often brides are disappointed to learn that their must-have hanging chandeliers will cost more than their dress. Flowers are gorgeous, but expensive. Mostly because of the manpower that goes into creating them. Let me follow that by saying I will never suggest that you DIY your own flowers. It’s more stress than it’s worth. However, there are ways such as bringing in candles, using the bridesmaids’ bouquets for centerpieces, and minimizing the ceremony décor that will help.

Food and Alcohol

Being the newly evolved foodie town that Nashville is means that catering has soared way past the expectation of a banquet dinner. Couples are wanting unique menus with local flavors and beautiful presentations. Not only that, but open bars that serve top shelf concoctions. If you can swing it, go for it. If not, it’s ok! My husband made a great point by reminding me that a wedding meal is probably not the best meal our guests will ever have. Simply because it’s being served in large quantities. Light bulb! Make sure the menu is food that you enjoy and don’t get too wrapped up in the flashiness of it all.

We can supply all of your wedding and party rental needs. Allow us to help make your special day perfect! Call us Monday through Friday 8am-5pm to schedule an appointment and to check pricing and availability.

In lieu of an open bar, consider serving beer and wine with a signature drink or champagne.

Photography

Wedding pictures have evolved into a whole new animal over the last decade. Gone are the days of the stuffy family church pictures and a few newlywed shots. Today’s bride wants a magazine-worthy editorial with artistic and flawless images. The great news is that most photographers are aware of this and will deliver. The biggest tip no matter what amount your doling out is to make sure you know what you’re getting: rights to the photos, number of hours of shooting, an engagement session, etc. Skip things like the album as they are pricey and you can have one made later on. Remember that no one knows what you almost did, they only see what actually is done. Don’t beat yourself up if every detail isn’t exactly as desired. Guests will remember the mood and if they had a good time. They will not remember the centerpieces or china.

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HARPETH TRUE VALUE RENTAL CENTER 203 DOWNS BLVD. FRANKLIN, TN 37064

615.794.3641 harpethtruevalue.com Hours M-F 7am-6pm, Saturday 8am-6pm, Sunday 12pm-6pm

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Preparing for Wedding Day Disasters BY TRACEY STARCK

Envisioning your wedding day fills your mind with images of a fairy tale celebration bursting with elegance, love and joy. You probably didn’t picture aching feet, stains, headaches or an upset stomach, but unexpected little disasters can sometimes show up to wreck your special day if you aren’t prepared. Here are a few items you should have handy on your wedding day to ensure you have a blissful day. COMFORTABLE SHOES Yes, those sparkly stilettos are breathtaking but blisters and a limping bride are not. Bring an alternate pair of shoes that are cute, comfortable and dance floor ready to change into after the ceremony so you’ll be focused on the fun, not your feet. FIX-IT KIT Fix tears, buttons and loose clothing in a jiffy with a sewing kit that includes sewing needles, safety pins, scissors, hem tape, thread in several colors and a lint roller for the finishing touch. Clear nail polish can fix a run in tights and super glue can repair almost anything that breaks. All that wedding day fun can often lead to spills and stains. Having a stain removal pen can save the day and white chalk can be used

to help hide stubborn stains. It’s a bit extra, but a steamer can keep the bridal party looking sharp for photos by eliminating last-minute wrinkles. MINI-MEDICINE CABINET Excitement, nerves and the delightfully hectic energy of your wedding day can bring on a myriad of aches and pains. Be sure to bring pain relievers, pepto tablets and antacid, blister treatment, Band-Aids, feminine products, deodorant, sunscreen and bug spray for outdoor weddings, allergy medicine, tissues and hand sanitizer. Don’t forget to have a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash and breath mints for that, “you may kiss the bride” moment. BEAUTY EMERGENCIES You’ll have no doubt that your bridal look is perfection when you have a whole arsenal of beauty products at the ready. For your hair, you’ll want a hairbrush and comb, hairspray, bobby pins. Your makeup essentials should include your favorite lipstick, eyeliner, mascara, foundation/powder and lip gloss. Some extras should include tweezers, baby powder, makeup remover, blotting sheets, nail clippers and file, spare underwear and hose/tights, moisturizers and perfume.

THE LITTLE EXTRAS Be ready for anything with these extras. Bring stain-proof snacks and water to keep your energy up. Straws can prevent your lipstick from smearing and reduce spilling risks. Have your maid of honor keep a list of your wedding vendors along with a contact name and phone number in case there are any issues that need to be resolved immediately. It’s also good to have a few phone charges around to make sure everyone’s phone lasts for the whole event. Don’t forget to customize your emergency prep kit for your own unique needs such as your favorite music or tea to keep you relaxed. Now you’re ready to walk down the aisle feeling carefree and looking flawless!

photo by sarah sidwell

your guide for planning a nashville wedding www.nashvillebrideguide.com

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SOCIAL MEDIA WEDDING ETIQUETTE 101 BY CATHERINE ROYKA

Whether you are the happy couple with the big day coming up, or you’re a friend to the couple, here are a few social etiquette tips to remember before and during the wedding.

TO THE BRIDE AND GROOM The Announcement. To those who are on their way to a proposal, keep in mind how you want to let family and friends know about the announcement. We love sharing our personal news on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter, but it probably isn’t the best or most personal way to let your close family and friends know. Step away from the social media and give those loved ones a call, you know they will appreciate it more than a tweet! Engagement Ring Pictures. Yes, we are all dying to hear the engagement story and see pictures of the ring, but keep some of the details to yourself. No one needs to know the details on carat size or cost. Remember what the ring symbolizes, your commitment to one another.

TO THE FRIENDS AND FAMILY Be Respectful of the Big News. You may be one of the first to know about your best friends’ engagement and you could not be more excited, but hold off on the congrats until the couple is ready to share the news on their own. You also don’t want to spill the beans about the big news if they have not told some close family members yet. Let the Photographer Do Their Job. Give some much-needed space to the wedding photographer(s). Let the professionals be the ones capturing the intimate and big moments at the wedding. Also, to note, the flash from your camera/phone camera could also interfere with the photographer’s and overexpose their photos. Sharing Photos. You are probably very eager to share photos of the new Mrs. and Mr. at the wedding, but check with a close friend to the bride or groom or a family member to see if you can start sharing photos. Also, some couples opt for an unplugged wedding, so remember to respect their wishes and keep that phone in your car. If you can share photos, be mindful of the shots you are taking and double check that it is a flattering picture of everyone. And, definitely don’t share a photo of the bride before the ceremony. Be Present. It is fun to share the news, giving a visual play-byplay with Snapchat, but while you’re at the wedding, keep it to a minimum. Be present and celebrate with everyone. There’s nothing better than just being in the moment.

Here Comes The Bride

Ladies that Brunch BY KATIE JACOBS

A BRIDAL BRUNCH THAT SATISFIES ANY SWEET TOOTH WHILE CELEBRATING THOSE CLOSEST TO THE BRIDE The celebrations surrounding a wedding are memorable occasions that not only honor the bride and groom, but also praise loved ones the couple holds dear. Bridal showers are the perfect opportunity to up the girly factor and choosing a theme is imperative. A bridal brunch or afternoon tea is a perfect gettogether for ladies to socialize and shower the bride with love and gifts. Brunch is an especially easy affair to pull off. Putting together a menu of brunch favorites like scones, waffles and donuts is fun. Guests are usually available and happy to attend an event in the late morning and they won’t arrive starved (like if you were having lunch). When my cousin Julianna got married, we threw her a bakery-themed bridesmaids’ brunch decorated with hot pink bakery boxes and garden roses. Because the brunch was limited to bridesmaids (twelve guests total), we were able to do over-the-top invitations: hand delivered tiny bakery boxes filled with cupcakes and mini macaroons with the brunch invitations attached. A little taste of what was to come! For the party, we decorated a long farm table with pink bakery boxes, vintage cake stands and hot pink garden roses. Height and drama was added with two 36”white balloons anchored by satin ribbon. The cake stands were adorned with brunch favorites - a huge tower of waffles, homemade biscuits with jam, and a big stack of Krispy Kreme doughnuts.

Brunch consisted of ham and cheese croissants, mini frittatas and fruit-and-granola parfaits served in pink depression glass. Guests enjoyed homemade cranberry-orange and cheddar-dill scones with mimosas, tea and coffee as they arrived. We used the bakery boxes that had been used as decorations to pack up the left over baked goods to send home with guests as favors. CHEDDAR DILL SCONES 4 cups, plus 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour 2 Tablespoons baking powder 2 teaspoons salt 3/4-pound cold unsalted butter, diced 4 large eggs, beaten lightly 1 cup heavy cream 1/2-pound extra-sharp yellow Cheddar, small-diced 1 cup minced fresh dill 1 egg beaten with 1 Tablespoon water or milk, for egg wash Preheat oven to 400˚F. Combine 4 cups of flour, baking powder, and salt in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Add the butter and mix on low speed until the butter is in pea-sized pieces. In a separate bowl, mix the eggs and heavy cream together. Add it all at once to the flour-and-butter mixture and mix until just combined. Toss together the cheese, dill, and 1 Tablespoon of flour and add them to the dough. Mix until they are almost incorporated. Dump the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead it for 1 minute, until the Cheddar and dill are well distributed. Roll the dough 3/4-inch thick. Cut into 4-inch squares and then in half diagonally to make triangles. Brush the tops with egg wash. Bake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 20 to 25 minutes, until the outside is crusty and the inside is fully baked. Makes 16 large scones.

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HAM AND SWISS CROISSANTS WITH POPPY SEED MUSTARD 3/4 cup melted butter 1 1/2 Tablespoons Dijon mustard 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 1/2 Tablespoons poppy seeds 12 croissants 1 pound thinly sliced deli ham 1 pound thinly sliced Swiss cheese Preheat oven to 350˚F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of butter, Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Slice the croissants, separating the tops from the bottoms. Layer ham onto the bottom of croissants. Arrange the Swiss cheese over the ham. Slather the slice-side of each top with mustard sauce and place the tops of the croissants onto the sandwiches and place onto the baking sheet (the croissant sandwiches can be put close together on the baking sheet, even touching). Pour the remaining melted butter evenly over each croissant and sprinkle with poppy seeds. Bake in the preheated oven until the croissants are browned and the cheese has melted, 10 to 12 minutes. If tops start to get too brown, cover with aluminum foil. Serve warm or at room temperature.

HOMESTEAD MANOR HISTORIC ROMANCE ABOUNDS AT THIS BEAUTIFUL ESTATE Fifty acres of land steeped in local history set the scene for elegant weddings and events on the beautiful Homestead Manor property in Thompson’s Station. A perfect blend of countryside charm and upscale hospitality in an unrivaled historic setting, the multi-layer property includes a renovated barn that serves as a unique event space, an onsite farm and gardens, a separate high-end tavern room, and two floors inside the 4,000 square-foot plantation-style home for the restaurant, Harvest.

For receptions, the venue offers an equestrian-style barn with soaring ceilings and wrought iron chandeliers. With seating capacity for 250 and standing capacity for 400, the barn offers a spectacular view of the Homestead Manor grounds. Immediately upon entering the Barn at Homestead Manor, the eye is drawn to the dramatic stacked stone fireplace and oversized chandeliers. The property’s talented events team capitalizes on these romantic features, often draping fabric and incorporating flowers and twinkle lighting throughout, to create a dream-worthy venue for the bride and groom’s special day.

PHOTOGRAPH BY AMY WHIDBY

PHOTOGRAPH BY CAT ROYKA

PHOTOGRAPH BY SARAH GILLIAM

For wedding ceremonies, the property boasts multiple settings with views of the antebellum home and manicured grounds, including a peaceful shade garden and countryside water feature. Many brides opt for an arch made of flowers and greenery under which to say their vows, creating an

ethereal, garden-like scene amidst the property’s natural greenery.

PHOTOGRAPH BY JENNA HENDERSON

Here Comes the Bride

The climate-controlled space features ample restrooms, an on-site catering kitchen, and a spectacular vista of the expansive grounds. The barn’s walls can also be raised to create an indoor-outdoor feel, exposing views of the nearby pond and fountain. For day-of preparations, the property offers a private bridal suite and stylish groom’s loft for the wedding party to dress for the big event. The ca. 1819 Homestead Manor property was purchased by the Franklin-based company, A. Marshall Hospitality, in 2015. The restaurant, Harvest, offers a chef-driven menu focused on bold dishes and creative techniques and occupies the first and second floors of the home. The Harvest menu rotates flavors according to the season’s yield, bringing rich, layered plates to life by way of the property’s ten-acre farm and neighboring purveyors whenever possible. With influences that build on Southern basics and incorporate culinary traditions from across the world, Harvest at Homestead Manor delivers a unique farmto-fork experience to its guests. The restaurant recently released its Spring menu, featuring barbecue and ale-braised pork and bourbon-molasses grilled chicken, both sourced from local Katharos Farm; blackened scallops and a duck and andouille gumbo that harkens back to Executive Chef Donnie Counts’ Southern roots, among others.

The Glass Bar, adjacent to the home, is a favorite element of the Homestead estate. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer guests a front-row view of the herb garden, where ingredients are picked for the tippler’s glass. Interesting, yet approachable takes on cocktail classics make up the menu, with some new creations mixed in, like local distillery Corsair gin mixed with orgeat, lemon juice, creme de cacao and Woodford chocolate bitters to compose the aptly named ‘Simply the Best’ cocktail. Harvest at Homestead Manor’s talented chef team also offers both on- and off-site catering for special events, ranging in size and style. Baby showers,

corporate events and community fundraisers have been held on the property, in addition to a host of wedding ceremonies and receptions. Guests may also opt for the Chef ’s Table Experience, an intimate dining occasion featuring exceptional culinary tastings prepared and served by the executive chef or chef du jour. The chef ’s table menu is individually crafted to provide a personalized encounter for each party, with a personal phone call from the chef to discuss preferences and dietary restrictions included in the package. Homestead Manor is open Tuesday through Friday from 4pm to 9pm; Friday from 4pm to 10pm; Saturday from 10am until 10pm and Sunday from 10am until 9pm. The restaurant offers brunch from 10am until 3pm on Saturdays and Sundays. The property is closed on Mondays. To learn more about their offerings, visit homesteadmanor.com or facebook.com/homesteadmanor or follow @homesteadmanor and @homesteadmanorevents on Instagram.

PHOTOGRAPH BY KRISTYN HOGAN

Produce sourced from the Homestead farm is also featured throughout the menu, like wood-grilled fresh vegetables, braised greens and more. The organic farm boasts more than seventy-five types of vegetables, herbs, flowers and fruits that are incorporated in each of Harvest’s seasonal menus and also sold at the Thompson’s Station Farmers Market, held weekly on the Homestead Manor property from May to July.

DISTINCTIVELYSOUTHERNWEDDING.COM The distinctively southern wedding resource for the Middle Tennessee Bride.

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knot

Tie the at a Top Destination Wedding BY HOLLIE DEESE

Location

As Middle Tennessee becomes harder and harder to book because of its “It City” status, engaged couples are looking to other locations to tie the knot before returning home to start their lives together as newlyweds. From tropical beaches to rustic vineyards, there’s a location perfect for any wedding vibe. And since they are all in the states the best part is no one will even need to renew their passport.

Aspen, Colorado

The gorgeous Rocky Mountain range is just one reason to choose Aspen, the luxurious amenities are definitely another. High-end shops and swanky restaurants can keep the non-skiing and snowboarding guests occupied, especially if the event is booked during the high winter season of November through early March. Still, even without the snow the landscape is stunning, so consider a summer or fall wedding as well. One to try: HOTEL JEROME hoteljerome.aubergeresorts.com The luxurious resort is right in the heart of everything, offering an elevated experience that will be hard to top anywhere else. One of the city’s major landmarks, it was built in the 1880s by the owner of Macy’s, Jerome Wheeler. Hotel Jerome is also home to one of Aspen’s best nightlife options, the Western-themed J-Bar that operated throughout Prohibition.

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Tucson, Arizona

Known for its turquoise jewelry and deep orange sunsets, Tucson offers couples a gorgeous, rugged Southwest landscape to tie the knot. The weather is typically mild all year long, so weddings at any time work, and guests can immerse themselves in the local culture while in town, checking out the many galleries full of Native American and Mexican textiles and jewelry. One to try: HACIENDA DEL SOL GUEST RANCH RESORT haciendadelsol.com The historic Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort has some of the most amazing views of the Santa Catalina Mountains, the very same views that drew some famous fans from Old Hollywood like Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn and John Wayne. Recently renovated, everything is updated and modernized without losing any of the original fireplaces or hand-painted tiles.

Las Vegas, Nevada

With drive-through chapels and Elvis officiants, weddings can be over-the-top fun, but with elegant ballrooms and sophisticated menus nuptials can be upscale traditional affairs too. Guests will never lack for entertainment options - beyond the casinos there are Elvis and Liberace museums, even roller coasters at the Stratosphere Tower. The food is top-notch too. However, the hottest months of the summer may be too much when considering guest comfort.

S t. Augustine, Florida

One to try:

For sunny beaches in the southeast, Florida is filled with options from coast to coast. There’s hardly a bad time to have a wedding in Florida, though it all depends which part of the state has your eye. North Florida’s high season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, while southern Florida’s busiest time is December through April. If you don’t mind the heat summer is an option too. Just be sure to avoid party hotspots during peak spring break season.

ARIA RESORT & CASINO aria.com

One to try:

Couples can choose to get married at the hotel’s on-site chapel, poolside veranda or fireside lounge. But for a truly breathtaking backdrop there is even the gallery featuring the contemporary glass art of internationally-renowned artist Dale Chihuly. Couples are able to get married in that unique space with up to seventy guests, or access it during cocktail hour.

History buffs will love tying the knot in one of the country’s oldest cities, and Casa Monica’s breathtaking architecture, lush tropical gardens and flowing fountains are like paradise. Casa Monica features enchanting ballrooms, adorned with gilded mirrors and brass chandeliers, and the outdoor Sultan’s Pavilion complete with a sparkling pool is Moroccan inspired.

CASA MONICA RESORT & SPA casamonica.com

Distinctively SouthernWedding 45

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is a charming mix of old-fashioned glamour and rustic seaside community with huge mansions lining the cliffs, built at the turn of the century by the rich and famous. Still a favorite summer destination for the numerous activities from sailing to shopping, it is warmest then but also the busiest. May and September still offer good weather while being easier to book, and evenings will always offer something to do, especially for fans of music thanks to the many live blues, jazz, or rock venues. One to try: ATLANTIC RESORT 240 Aquidneck Ave., Middleton, RI atlanticresortnewport.com The brand new Atlantic Resort has begun hosting events and will be open fulltime spring 2017 for weddings, offering three different venues that can be used all together if needed. With views of the Atlantic Ocean and Easton’s Pond, each banquet room offers couples elegance and New England charm.

Napa Valley, California

Bristol, Maine

One to try:

SILVERADO RESORT 1600 Atlas Peak Road, Napa, CA silveradoresort.com

1812 FARM 1297 Bristol Road, Bristol, ME the1812farm.com

Start with the stunning views at Silverado Resort and the benefits just add on from there. Guests will dine on fresh farm-to-table catering from reception to rehearsal dinner to post-wedding brunch – all in idyllic settings – with tons of personalized touches to make everything perfect.

Atmosphere is everything at the 1812 Farm with its soaring ceiling, rustic beams and over-the-top chandeliers inside the restored 18th Century barn. The bridal suite alone offers a quiet oasis for the ultimate in pre-wedding prep – there are even salon chairs on site for the whole party.

For some people the epitome of romance includes a backdrop of rolling hills, lush valleys and wine. Lots and lots of wine. Napa offers all of that and more, including world-class restaurants, indulgent spa services and charming boutiques, galleries and gourmet stores. Golf lovers will embrace the world-class courses, and adventure-seekers must try a hot air balloon ride. Summer and October are the best times to visit but can be hard to book because it is peak season for harvest.

The East Coast’s northernmost state is filled with natural beauty, including the 35,000-acre Acadia National Park with its awe-inspiring mountains, woodlands, lakes and oceanfront coastline. For those who prefer the indoors, there are plenty of antique stores to poke through and a wide selection of art museums and galleries. Late summer pulls the most visitors, but weddings in September are amazing too thanks to the fall weather foliage. Just make sure everyone indulges in at least one lobster roll and slice of blueberry pie.

Distinctively SouthernWedding 46

Marry Me

GIFT IDEAS FOR YOUR

WEDDING PARTY

Gifting your wedding party is a long time tradition, not just in the south! For many, it is a personal and intimate way of saying “thank you” to those special friends and family members for being a part of the wedding celebration. Whether personalized or funny, this gift should be tailored to your special wedding party. Here are some of our favorite wedding day gifts:

Ladies:

Men:

• Pearls

• Cigars

• Monogrammed Robes

• Personalized Cufflinks

• Dainty Bracelets

• Engraved Pocket Knives

• Engraved Pendants

• Groomsmen “survival kit” with the perfect mix of goodies for your group of guys.

• Stud Earrings

• Personalized Flasks

FUN

WEDDING FACTS

Take a break from your wedding planning and look at these fun wedding facts! Just when you thought you were the only one planning a wedding, it’s nice to know other people feel the pain. Here are some traditions, norms and facts from past weddings:

• Engagement and wedding rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it was once thought that a vein in that finger led directly to the heart

• The most popular wedding song of 2014 was “All of Me” by John Legend

• Rain on your wedding day is considered good luck, according to Hindu tradition

• The average wedding costs around $25,200

• Average number of guests at a wedding is 200

• Over 7,000 couples marry each day in the United States

• December is the most popular month to get engaged

• According to English folklore, Saturday is the unluckiest day to get married

Distinctively SouthernWedding 47

See the latest wedding trends and find inspiration by following us on Instagram @distinctivelysouthernwedding and liking Distinctively Southern Wedding on Facebook. Don’t forget to share your distinctively southern wedding day with us too!

Here Comes the Bride However, depending upon their age, some kids will be excited with the idea of having stepsiblings to hang out with, therefore the idea of a wedding may not be so bad. Others will be resistant and that’s okay, too. It’s perfectly normal and in due time, they’ll come around. Involving them, or at least giving them the option to be involved, is always a good idea. Put them at the front of the line with you in this.

The Second Time Combining Families with a Wedding BY ANNIE OSTEEN

ollywood has done a pretty nice job of painting a cliché picture in our minds of what a wedding is supposed to look like. A girl in her twenties or thirties in a stunning white gown, walking down the aisle of a packed church on the arm of her father with a beautiful bouquet in her hand, walking towards her groom at the altar. And as much as that scene is still very much a reality to many girls, there are other countless variations of weddings that take place every day. For instance, the weddings that occur that aren’t just for two people but include an entire family; second weddings that integrate children. Second weddings by many different standards are tricky. The odds are tough and let’s face it, the judgement out there against them is brutal. A first marriage that fails - the pain behind it, the depression behind it, it’s gutwrenching. When children are involved, it’s even worse because as a parent it’s your duty to put on that big, bright smile and make their lives as normal as possible while putting your pain, your emotions and your needs on the back burner until you’ve made sure that

they’re okay. When you have children, they go to the front of the line on everything. No one wants to ever imagine that a first marriage will fail, but sometimes life happens and it happens to those of us who never expected it. We try again. This time, having learned some valuable lessons. When the dust settles, the sun comes out, the flowers start to smell nice for a second time, the grass actually looks green again, and once the self-esteem returns, you may find yourself dating. It does happen and it can be wonderful, if you allow it. If children are involved, things are a little more complicated but can be just as special, if not more. If things progress and an engagement follows, congratulations! It’s an extra special time…again, if you let it be! Let the planning begin and if you (and your fiancé) have children, make sure to involve them on this important occasion for your new family. First of all, let’s preface this with that idea that not all children will be fully supportive or enthusiastic about the idea of Mom or Dad getting remarried. Nothing’s ever that easy.

If the idea is to have a big wedding, the ideal option would be to include the children as bridesmaids and groomsmen, or flower girls and ring bearers if they’re little. If there’s only one son, he may be asked to be the Best Man. If there’s a young artist in the family, he or she may be asked to create some artwork for the ceremony. You may have one child read a passage from the family Bible during the ceremony, while another child that likes to sing may want to sing a special song during the ceremony. There are many children who feel as if they are being disloyal to their “other” parent if they participate in the second wedding. As a parent, there are several things that you can do for them without being too incessant. For instance, if your child is a little older, you may consider inviting their best friend to the wedding. Yes, it may cost a little more money but it will be give them a support system to have throughout the day; someone to talk to and lean on if they start to feel emotional. If you have a bashful child, there are many behind-the scenes duties that can make them feel included such as helping to address the wedding invitations, picking the cake or flowers or helping choose the music for the reception. Simple ceremonies on the beach are just that… simple. Mom, Dad, the kids and a minister to read the vows. Including the children in your vows is a brilliant way to express that you are committed to being a family, not just “roommates” every other week. Second weddings are what you make of them. Some couples opt for the quick civil service wedding, others want the big, church wedding that take a year or two to plan. In either case, involving children in the second marriage ceremony, if applicable, will tell them a lot about what lies ahead for their new family. Letting children be part of this exciting day is going to make them feel as if they have something to be encouraged about right along with you!

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Arrington Vineyards is a gem nestled among the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee. Known primarily for its picturesque vineyards and wide variety of award winning wines, Arrington Vineyards sits on 92 acres of historic farmland planted with lush grapevines and century old oaks. Owned by country music artist Kix Brooks, master vintner Kip Summers, and entrepreneur John Russell, Arrington Vineyards has become “Nashville’s Wine Country”. Wine tastings are available daily inside the beautiful hillside Tasting Lodge perched above the vineyards. Enjoy the breathtaking sunsets from one of the numerous picnic tables. On weekends from April through October, guests enjoy free live Jazz and Bluegrass music. Amidst the vineyards on the west side of the property is the historic and charming Stone House. This scenic locale provides the ambience for making memories. Built in 1926, the Stone House was renovated in 2013 to specifically accommodate romantic “wine country” weddings. Because weddings have been taking place there since 1976, it was serendipitous that Arrington Vineyards acquired the Stone House to extend the opportunity for others to commit their love to one another. It has been an honor to share in the many love stories - past, present & future. Encompassed by grapevines, the Stone House complements its natural surroundings and unique vineyard setting. The house includes a beautiful bridal suite, featuring a luxurious dressing room, an abundance of natural light, and a glamorous vanity. This suite provides a private space

Where Love Blooms Amongst the Vines

for bridal parties to prepare and relax with a glass of wine before exchanging vows. There is also a masculine grooms’ lounge with a wrap-around porch for enjoying a drink or cigar prior to the ceremony. With breathtaking sunset views, the west lawn offers picture perfect lighting and a selection of ceremonial backdrops. Whether it is an intimate moment shared on our charming wrap-around porch or a grand walk down the aisle surrounded by family and friends, the Stone House offers something special for every love story. After exchanging vows, the newlyweds can be swept away into the vineyards to capture their first moments together as one. All the while, wedding guests can mingle and enjoy wine, hors d’oeuvres, and music; creating memories that will be treasured for many years to come. Connected to the Stone House is a 2,400 square foot tented courtyard, providing a timeless and elegant setting for a reception. The courtyard offers a natural vineyard setting, romantic bistro lighting, and the opportunity to create a unique and personalized experience. Arrington Vineyards is 10 miles east of historic Franklin, Tennessee, offering a wine country “destination wedding” experience close to home. The Stone House is ideal for intimate weddings up to 120 wedding guests. To view the Stone House at Arrington Vineyards, contact: Katie Floyd at 615-395-0102 x 215 or Katie@arringtonvineyards.com

ARRINGTON VINEYARDS & WINERY 6211 Patton Road | Arrington, TN 37014 | 615.395.0102 | arringtonvineyards.com Follow @WeddingsAtArringtonVineyards on Instagram and Facebook for more pictures.

Here Comes the Bride

“For Better or for Worse…” BY JULIE JORGENSEN

Being engaged is such a fun, joyous time. That said, once you set the date, the clock is ticking. It seems like a million things await any time a bride consults her to-do list. But I’m here to help with at least a couple of those. Break out the thick bridal magazines and pour a glass of bubbly. Let’s do this. The notion of wedding hair and makeup can be daunting, to say the least. So let’s start at the beginning. If you’re the blushing bride, think about the look you want to project on your big day: sweet and demure? All-out glamorous? Bold lips versus smoky, sexy eyes? Once you narrow it down, you can start to research either makeup artists in your area who specialize in that particular look or, alternately, online and local makeup counters (and hair salons) for ideas and tips. My humble-as-ever advice: Don’t try to be someone you aren’t - on all days - but especially on your wedding day. If you’re the least bit uncomfortable in your appearance, the entire world will know it. If you’re by nature a wash-and-go gal, don’t choose your big day to greet the world with dramatic, screen-siren eyes and a full face of contour. Think about who are you are as your most naturally beautiful and confident, not something forced or fake. This notion also applies to your hair. Consult your stylist, visit local blow-dry bars, check out pictures on Pinterest, whatever it takes to find a ‘do that’s fitting as opposed to overdone and uncomfortable.

The same can be said for the gals who you love enough to choose as your bridesmaids. The days of cookie-cutter makeup and hair looks are o-v-e-r. Your girlfriends aren’t all exactly the same, so why force them to look the same? Your wedding party loves you and your groom just for who you are, so give them the same love and grace - within reason, mind you. I will never forget the tale of the bridesmaid of a friend of mine who, let’s just say, is a very free spirit. She didn’t feel the need to shave under her arms for the big wedding weekend until the bride casually mentioned something about it. Note: If you’re a bridesmaid, do your part. Get your roots done, hit the spray tan, put your face on, and for heaven’s sake - shave. It’s a fun indulgence to hire hair and makeup artists for your wedding party for the big day. If that’s not an option, play “beauty shop” with each other before everyone dons their wedding garb. A glowing complexion with strategically-placed highlighter (think brow-bones, the bridge of the nose and the top of the cheeks and across collarbones), is always on-trend and photographs beautifully. Emphasize one feature or the other. This is not the time for screaming red lips AND smoky dark eyes. Make sure to keep a travel-sized version of your lip gloss and highlighter in your “party purse” for photo-op touch-ups. The weeks before your big day will actually provide the biggest payoff, so stay focused. Always wash your face at night, find and stick to a skincare regimen that best suits your needs, break a sweat as often as reasonably possible, drink lots of water and take ample time to rest and rejuvenate. Get a massage, schedule a series of facials leading up to your wedding day, go take a walk, whatever it takes. Once you’ve assembled your glam squad to handle you and your party’s hair and makeup (even if it’s a friend), relax and trust that you’ll be putting your absolute best face forward when it counts. At the end of the day, the blush of happiness and excitement can never be replicated with makeup. So take a deep breath, smile, and take in every glorious step down the aisle knowing that you look and hopefully feel, absolutely gorgeous. Cheers! Love,

The Beauty Junkie Distinctively SouthernWedding 50

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DISTINCTIVELY SOUTHERN

Wedding

Here Comes the Bride

FOR THE MIDDLE TENNESSEE BRIDE

Robertson Media Group cordially invites you to discover Distinctively Southern Wedding, a wedding resource no Middle Tennessee bride will want to do without! Look for our second edition on stands in Fall 2018 throughout middle Tennessee!

Take a Moment BY TRACEY STARCK

If you think the time between slipping on the engagement ring and walking down the aisle goes by quickly, just wait until the actual wedding day. You’ll wake up excited that today is the day, then before you know it, your special day will have come and gone in a whirlwind of lace, dancing and smiling faces. Remember to stop and observe all the little details that will make your day unforgettable. Throughout the wedding day, you’ll be whisked about from changing rooms to the aisle to the dance floor in a heady blur of joyous excitement. At each of these moments, take a second to look around and take a mental snapshot to remember for years to come. You’ll want to recall how you and your bridesmaids laughed and bonded while getting ready. Your mother’s expression when she sees her daughter as a beautiful bride. The way the room looks and sounds before you start walking down the aisle. The first moment together as husband and wife. Watching your grandma out on the dance floor. Being surrounded by everyone you love in a scene of joy and togetherness. Your photographer will capture all of the big events that are easy to remember, but these sweet moments are fleeting. However, taking the time to focus on the smaller details will ensure that you’ll have little cherished memories to reflect on for a lifetime.

For more information on how to advertise in Distinctively Southern Wedding or to showcase your wedding story - Contact us at: info@robertsonmediagroup.com

“Remember to stop and observe all the little details that will make your day unforgettable.”

Happily Ever After

THE 5 LOVE LANGUAGES GARY CHAPMAN

THE COUPLE’S GUIDE TO FINANCIAL COMPATIBILITY JEFF MOTSKE

In this New York Times Best Seller, you will figure out which one of the five dialects of love you and your partner both lean toward for giving and receiving love. Through humor and some practical advice, author Gary Chapman reveals tips to make the relationship work by discovering how to make one another feel most loved.

THE GIFTS OF IMPERFECTION BRENÉ BROWN

Brené Brown, a leading expert on shame, authenticity and belonging, shares ten guideposts on the power of wholehearted living and how to engage with the world from a place of worthiness. In the guideposts, Brené shares this journey of how we can engage our minds and hearts to gain the courage, compassion and connection to know that we are enough.

Financial problems can take a toll no matter what stage of life you are in. A lack of communication on finances in your relationship can truly hurt you both. The book is filled with crucial tips to help anyone at their relationship stage achieve financial freedom. Jeff provides the tools to help you discuss your finances, combining finances, planning retirement, all while helping to maintain the strong bond in your relationship. The guide is filled with numerous questions partners need to ask one another.

MUST-READ BOOKS FOR NEWLYWEDS BY CATHERINE ROYKA

Step away from the Netflix, newlyweds. The wedding has happened, the planning is done, the thank you notes have been sent… it’s time to engage in a little communication with your spouse. Here are some of the “must-read” books for newlyweds (or those looking to tie the knot soon), to help guide you both through financial struggles, raising a family, how to be a better listener and how to communicate love to one another.

THE REAL THING ELLEN MCCARTHY

ONE DISH, TWO WAYS JANE KENNEDY

Are you and your love picky eaters? The solution? This book! In Jane Kennedy’s cookbook, she offers a handful of meal solutions. The book is filled with recipes for adults, kids and even those “grownups” who may be as picky as the kids (no judgment, of course). With each dish, Jane begins with a base meal that can be added to or deconstructed, depending on the food preferences, allergies and restrictions.

THE SECRETS OF HAPPY FAMILIES BRUCE FEILER

From a Washington Post weddings reporter turned author, Ellen shares the mystery, science and secrets how we find love and make it last, through the hundreds of weddings and relationships she had seen during her days as a reporter. Whether you are on the quest for love or looking to strength your relationship, this book provides a layout to reading the human heart.

Bruce shares the secrets of how you and your spouse can align your goals on a range of scenarios; what to have for dinner and how to raise a family. This book provides advice on how to make your family run smoothly and feel authentic to who you are as a couple. The book acts as a blueprint for modern families, with a new approach to family dynamics, inspired by techniques from experts in a range of disciplines; science, business, sports and the military.

Distinctively SouthernWedding 54

FIRST COMES LOVE, THEN COMES MARRIAGE, THEN COMES THE

Honeymoon Franklin Travel Services

After all the planning, stress and chaos that goes into the big day... you deserve a vacation! Well, its called the honeymoon. Don’t miss this chance to get away with your new spouse for needed R&R, romance, or a big adventure. Just as a wedding coordinator can make the wedding go off without a hitch, so can a professional travel planner insure that your honeymoon is a dream come true. As your travel agent, Franklin Travel Services offers you: Convenient one-stop shopping: As travel professionals with all the information at our fingertips, we can save you time and money.. Unbiased information: Agents work for you, not for a travel supplier. We want you to be happy and a happy customer will be a repeat customer. Expert guidance: We, unlike instructions on a Web page, are experts in understanding and deciphering the myriad of travel information and codes out there. That is how we have been trained and we do it every day. Personalized service: Instead of an impersonal voice thousand of miles away, we are your neighbors. We know what you want and what you value in your travel experience.

Franklin Travel Services, Inc.

Franklin Travel Services values your business and is committed to meeting all your travel needs as if they were our own. We take pride in your selecting us to serve as your objective travel consultant. It is our ongoing mission to sort through the vast options to find you the best prices and best value for your airline tickets, car rentals, hotel accommodations, and all our other travel needs. It is our pleasure to handle every step of the travel transaction for you, saving you from the stress, uncertainty, and inconvenience of having to do it on you own. We will be happy to meet with you and make your wedding/honeymoon the memory of a lifetime. Call Franklin Travel Services today at 615-791-4690 and start making your honeymoon dreams come true.

214 E. Main Street • Franklin, TN 37064 615-791-4690 • www.franklintravel.net

Distinctively SouthernWedding 55

Happily Ever After Do you cherish the idea of the dress as an heirloom for future generations but don’t want to have a big gown stuffed in the back of your closet? Then consider creating a beautiful keepsake from the fabric of your gown. Your dress can be a part of your child’s future wedding in the form of a ring pillow, bouquet wrap, garter or even jewelry. Can’t wait that long to pass it down? Use your dress to create a special gift for your first baby, such as a Christening gown, blanket or a bassinet that will encompass the warm memories of two important moments in your life.

Heirlooms

If heirlooms aren’t your style but you would still like a memento of the dress, consider repurposing the fabric. How exciting would it be to celebrate your first anniversary with custom lingerie made from your dress? Bring a little extra magic to your first Christmas as a married couple with a tree skirt or ornament made with the elegant detailing from your gown. You can even wear it again in a new way by altering it into a dress (with a matching clutch) that can be worn for dressy occasions. It could also be fun to pass on that fairy tale feeling of your wedding dress by making a princess gown for your little girl to play dress-up.

Repurpose

If your dress inspires your artistic side, stage a unique photo session that allows you and your dress to truly shine. Often called “Trash the Dress” photography, it isn’t really about destroying the dress as it is about juxtaposing its elegance in unusual settings to really take its beauty to another level. Taking a photo underwater allows your dress to take on a life of its own and can create a stunningly ethereal image. You could also photograph your dress while doing an activity that is special to you such as horseback riding, painting or frolicking on the beach or the snow. It’s a chance to relax, have fun, get creative and just be you!

Get Creative

Make someone else’s day shine a little brighter by donating your dress. There are many charities that will accept wedding gowns that are clean and gently used and pass them on to brides who need them. For instance, Wish Upon a Wedding grants weddings to couples facing serious illness or life-altering circumstances. Brides Across America provides dresses to military brides, while Brides Against Breast Cancer sells the dresses and donates the money to breast cancer-related charities. There are many more charities to choose from, so find one that is important to you and offer your dress to a good cause.

Donate It

What To Do With the Dress BY TRACEY STARCK

The vows have been spoken, the cake has been served, the memories have been made; once your special day has come and gone you are left with one question… what do you do with your wedding dress? Traditionally, the dress would be cleaned and preserved to be passed down to future generations or as a keepsake. While that is still an option, modern brides have several choices when it comes to giving the dress new life.

If you aren’t too sentimental about your dress, then reselling it is a great way to give someone else the chance to enjoy a dress they could not otherwise afford. There are several places online, in addition to consignment shops and bridal resell shops that will take your dress off of your hands and put money back in your wallet. Of course, you’ll need to have it cleaned and repair any minor tears, but a secondhand gown is a wonderfully affordable way to make another bride’s day that much more special.

Sell It

Distinctively SouthernWedding 56

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Here Comes the Bride

Hollywood has made the wedding a big part of film for years and years. There are so many movies to watch about wedded bliss, wedding disasters, true romance or even all out laugh your bridal booty off comedies. Here is our top ten list of wedding movies that we suggest you watch if you have not seen, or watch them again if you have seen them!

THE WEDDING DATE Debra Messing Dermot Mulroney

RUNAWAY BRIDE Julia Roberts Richard Gere

THE WEDDING PLANNER Jennifer Lopez Matthew McConaughey

FOUR WEDDINGS & A FUNERAL Andi MacDowell Hugh Grant

MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING Nia Vardalos John Corbett

BRIDESMAIDS Kristen Wiig Maya Rudolph

THE WEDDING SINGER WEDDING CRASHERS Drew Barrymore Owen Wilson Adam Sandler Vince Vaughn

MY BEST FRIENDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WEDDING Julia Roberts Dermot Mulroney

Distinctively SouthernWedding 58

FATHER OF THE BRIDE Steve Martin Diane Keaton

Happily Ever After

Wedding Anniversary Gift Traditions The tradition of celebrating each wedding anniversary with a symbolic gift goes as far back as the Middle Ages. In Germanic regions of Europe, it was customary to present the wife with a silver wreath on their 25th anniversary and a gold one on their 50th. The custom of gifting for the other anniversaries began in the Victorian era and that list expanded in the 20th century thanks to Emily Post and the American National Retail Jeweler Association. While the origins of how each material was selected to represent a year isn’t known, it’s apparent the objects progressively increase in value and strength as the years go by. As you and your husband start your lives together, it’s fun to celebrate each year with a traditional gift that symbolizes the enduring love of your marriage.

1st: Paper

7th: Wool/Copper

14th: Ivory

45th: Sapphire

2nd: Cotton

8th: Bronze

15th: Crystal

50th: Gold

3rd: Leather

9th: Pottery

20th: China

55th: Emerald

4th: Fruit & Flowers or Linen & Silk

10th: Tin/Aluminum

25th: Silver

60th: Diamond

11th: Steel

30th: Pearl

5 : Wood

12th: Silk

35th: Coral

6th: Iron/Candy

13th: Lace

40th: Ruby

Let’s start planning the destination wedding or honeymoon of your dreams! Linda Dancer with Honeymoons Inc. is a premier, romance travel expert, specializing in everything from destination wedding and honeymoon travel to special anniversaries and romantic escapes! Linda is a Sandals and Beaches Resorts Platinum Certified Specialist as well as Sandals WeddingMoons Specialist. She is also a Master Destinations Specialist for all of the Hawaiian Islands! Part of what has made Linda a number one choice for her clients’ romantic travel planning needs is that, in addition to having a wealth of knowledge about Beaches and Sandals resorts and the Hawaiian Islands, Linda is also an experienced traveler, and frequents all of these great destinations yearly to keep up to date with what’s happening at each island and resort as well as maintain relations with property staff and management to make sure your trip is nothing short of spectacular!

Find out what Linda can do for you! Call now to start planning your romantic getaway! lindadancer.com ❤ linda@honeymoonsinc.com ❤ Toll Free 1-888-811-1888 Ext 331 ❤ Direct: 931-337-0770

Happily Ever After

Three Ways to Preserve Your Bridal Bouquet

BY CATHERINE ROYKA

If you are the gal who is hoping to save some of your precious items from your special day, this information is for you! Don’t want to toss your bouquet to the single ladies on the dance floor? That’s okay if you want to preserve them! Here are three different ways to keep the memories and the bouquet. Tip: The trickiest part about preserving your flowers is trying to keep them fresh. Which means, the prime time to preserve them would be right after your wedding, while you are on your honeymoon… so, pick a trusted bridesmaid a few weeks before the wedding to see if they can get this project started for you.

PRESS THE FLOWERS

DRY THE BOUQUET WITH SILICA GEL

Select as many of your flowers as you would like and set them on parchment paper. Lay the parchment paper with the flowers on it inside the pages of a heavy book (textbook, phone book, etc.). Don’t forget to add another piece of parchment paper on top of the flowers to keep them free of ink, and shut the book. Leave the book untouched for about seven to ten days. Once the flowers are free of moisture and have a papery texture, you are free to use your pressed flowers from your bouquet to make a bookmark, stationary or arrange them to fit in a frame to hang in your home.

Don’t be confused by this one while you are looking for it at the store. It is not so much gel, it looks like sand. The gel helps to absorb water and dry out your flowers. Your florals will keep most of their structure and color if preserved this way. Form a base layer of silica gel in an airtight container. Sprinkle some of the gel in to the petals (not too much or it will distort the shape of the bloom) and then place the flower in the airtight container. Gently pour the gel around the petals and other flowers. Continue to fill the container with flowers and layering, until it reaches the top and seal it with a lid. Uncover after a few days and voilà, almost as good as the day you held them walking down the aisle!

MAKE POTPOURRI If you aren’t so worried about the structure of your flowers, this might be the route for you to go. Start by removing all the petals and place them in a bowl. Leave them to dry in a dark place for a couple of weeks. Once dry, place them in your chosen container and add a drop or two of potpourri, flower-scented oil.

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This is the place you envisioned even before you said yes. The place you imagined from your first thoughts of Prince Charming. The place where your dream wedding becomes your most beautiful memory. The place that pampers you and your guests with attention and options, and ensures that every detail is perfect â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just as it should be.

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Elegant. Romantic. Pristine. “After reading and comparing multiple venues, my husband and I chose Hilton Sandestin and could not be more pleased that we did! My guests really enjoyed the Southern hospitality they received from the Hilton staff. The food was amazing, and everyone loved the variety and presentation of it. I was very open to anything as long as it was simple, clean and crisp. I told them what I wanted, and they took it from there. From the moment I woke up, I was calm but excited. As the day went on, it got a little more stressful with my brother’s flight being delayed. Carol (the planner) and the staff did everything in their power to make sure I remained calm. My favorite part was when my brother arrived and was able to walk me down the aisle to the man of my dreams.” - Jena Bryant, Nashville

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“No, I haven’t met Tom, but my daughter-inlaw gave him my old San Francisco number in 2007. She wanted me to meet him,” says Marti. “Your daughter-in-law is right,” Jenna exclaimed, “Stephano (her husband) and I think you two are a good match!”

Marti Veto Tom McGrew October 10, 2017

Marti Veto and Tom McGrew met in 2013. This might have happened earlier, when in 2007, Marti’s daughterin-law, Linlee Allen, gave Tom, Marti’s phone number. “I just know you will like him. You have a lot in common,” says Linlee. Marti was about to move to the Nashville area from San Francisco, and was, as always, open to meeting new friends, especially those recommended by family! Tom did call, six-and-a-half years later, in September of 2013. Marti was having lunch with a friend on Main Street in Franklin before departing on a trip to Tuscany with fifteen girlfriends. Jenna Trimble, who knew both Tom and Marti, was serving Marti at the bar and asked, “Marti, do you know Tom McGrew?” Marti was in shock, did Jenna just ask if Marti knew about the man Linlee wanted her to meet in 2007? Two matchmakers, six-and-a-half years apart, pairing Marti up with the same man? Seriously, this had her attention.

The call came while Marti was in Cortona, a voice message that said, “Hello Marti Veto. Tom McGrew here. Long-time admirer, first time caller.” Clever, charming… Marti liked him already! They met on September 19th, 2013 and never spent another day apart.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOANNE DUNN

I Do

He planned a trip to spend Christmas together in London in 2016. On Boxing Day, December 26th, they took the train from London to Paris for the day. After a gorgeous, sunny pedi-taxi ride from the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower, Tom proposed marriage at the base of Paris’ most iconic landmark. The years fell away that day. They felt light and young and happy. Marti and Tom flew along in the high-speed train under the English Channel, through the Chunnel, and arrived back to our boutique hotel, “The Arch” in London, feeling a most intense happiness. Champagne and strawberries awaited them upon their return. Is it possible to meet and fall in love, with someone of great character and good humor and a generous heart… with all the compatible attributes you’ve both longed to find? Yes, it is possible, and at any age. It happens when you prepare your heart and have faith that the law of attraction will make sure that you meet your soulmate. In March of 2017, the couple began to plan a trip to Tuscany with married friends. Working through Nashville Luxury Travel, their agent Leslie Horn planned an itinerary with Tuscany Tours in Siena, Italy for eight days in a villa near Poggibonsi. They quickly had nine couples who wanted to go. Subsequently, two of the couples asked if they might extend the trip to include four days on the Amalfi Coast. When she shared this with Tom, he said, “Amalfi? Isn’t that your dream place? We should wait and marry in Amalfi.” They offered the extension opportunity to the group going to Tuscany, and announced that on October 10th, their wedding would be on the itinerary of an otherwise free day! Eight couples said “YES” to an Amalfi Coast trip, and BAM! Suddenly their ‘elopement’ became an intimate wedding! In 2004, on Marti’s first visit to the Amalfi Coast, she had seen a hotel so beautiful that it took her breath away. She vowed to return when she could stay there. And that is how it came to be that their wedding was an event of October 10th in Ravello, Italy, with eight loving married couples of friends. It was a dream come true. The venue, Palazzo Avino, is built in what was once a 12th century private residence for an Italian noble family. This five-star hotel with a Michelin star restaurant, and a view of the Mediterranean to make you weep, was the perfect setting for their celebration of Amore!

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DID YOU KNOW?

Wedding Facts The first wedding cakes were actually loaves of bread. In ancient Rome, bread was broken over the bride’s head to symbolize good fortune and fertility to the couple.

The tradition that brides wear a white dress, was started by Queen Victoria in 1840. She wore the white gown to incorporate some lace she prized. Until she set the trend, brides wore their finest gown to wed their groom. Japan happened to be way ahead of Queen Victoria as white was always the preferred color for brides.

Where did the tradition of bridesmaids and groomsmen come from? Ancient Roman law required ten witnesses to be present at a wedding, which is considered a precursor to the bridal party tradition. Bridesmaids and groomsmen had to dress just like the bride and groom to confuse vengeful spirits (or real-life jealous suitors) who might try to harm the newlyweds. Guests in attendance at traditional German weddings bring the happy couple any type of porcelain except glass, and then smash them in the belief that this will ward off evil spirits. The couple are then expected to clean up the mess together,

Engagement and wedding rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it was once thought that a vein in that finger led directly to the heart.

learning that married life will not be easy, but by working together, they can overcome any challenge.

Egyptian brides are pinched by female guests to wish them luck.

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