it's about details - issue 4 - Winter 2011

issue 4 Winter 2011

in this issue... features

some like it HOT!

28

competing in a chili cook-off for charity

buy a dress & help a charity

32

brides against breast cancer charity wedding gown event

whose table is it anyway?

36

18 tabletop designs to help inspire you

in every issue letter from the editor........................5 wedding day countdown..................7 q & a..............................................10 the hotlist.......................................10 date night.......................................14 great color combos......................114 d.i.y. spotlight...............................158 professional spotlight...................160 seven things to love.....................166

more & more

Style & Beauty & winter hair trends 17 holiday

hair accessories, braids, soft waves, & ponytails beauty essentials 20 holiday

beauty must haves your wedding 22 winterize

with boots, bling, & more Stationery & Favors romance 92 winter

simple and elegant & cozy favors 94 warm

Forgotten Details & groomsmen gifts 96 bridesmaid

pratical and useful

Behind the Scenes shoot 101 cover

see what goes on behind the scenes and more pictures Venues oysters, & Martinis 105 tapas,

Riverstone Cafe - Exton, pa Food & Pastry of pie 111 piece

in addition or replacement of the wedding cake

contents Reception & Ceremony your wedding 116 etsy-fy

great etsy finds for your ceremony and reception Planning & weddings 128 children

things and ideas to consider bar........when it may be ok 130 cash

5 reasons it may be ok to have one Real Weddings & Engagements real weddings and engagements

134 139 151

welsley & bryans engagment session

beautiful outdoor setting with a beautiful couple

a new york city loft

lori & toms real wedding

gina & brents real wedding and the bride wore red

editor’s note

We can’t believe it’s our fourth issue! We are very excited and look forward to bringing you many more fantastic issues!

Welcome to our fourth issue!

Fall was very busy with great events that we covered and events that we participated in.

Our goal, along with bringing you fabulous wedding details, is to give back to local and national charities.

Winter is a beautiful season, yes some of us deal with freezing tempatures and snow. But there are so many joyful celebrations! From Christmas to New Years to Valentines Day and everything in between!

Take time to enjoy the lights, music, colors, and even colder weather (perfect for hot chocolate!).

hearts always,

6 it’s about details - issue 4

Becki B Photography

Jason and Heather

Editor-in-Chief

Jason Kimble

jkimble@itsaboutdetails.com

Executive Editor/Creative Director Heather Kimble

hkimble@itsaboutdetails.com

Advertising

advertise@itsaboutdetails.com

Food & Pastry Contributor Nicholas Clare

www.nclare.com

Wedding Planning Contributor Amanda Walls

www.cherishableWE.com

Style Contributor

Jeannine Comito

jcomito@itsaboutdetails.com

Beauty Contributor

Stefanie Savino

ssavino@itsaboutdetails.com

To Contribute

contributor@itsaboutdetails.com

Real Wedding & Engagement Submissions realweddings@itsaboutdetails.com

Job Inquiries

jobs@itsaboutdetails.com

issue 4 - it’s about details 7

wedding day countdown 12 Months *Decide on your wedding budget and who’s contributing. *Appraise and insure your engagement ring. *Decide your wedding style and colors. *Choose your wedding date and time. *Interview and hire a wedding planner/coordinator. *Start envisioning your wedding dress.

9-11 Months *Choose your bridal party, ring bearer, flower girl, ceremony reader, etc. *Interview and hire a caterer. Begin planning your reception menu. *Finalize guest list. *Decide on your wedding officiant. *Look into any family customs or cultural traditions. *Research centerpieces, flowers, dĂŠcor, etc. *Start your gift registry.

6-8 Months

4-5 Months

*Choose and order groomsmen attire. *Choose and order grooms attire. *Research and choose a rehearsal dinner site. *Choose and reserve all tables, chairs, and any other wedding rentals. *Make all your honeymoon reservations-airfare, hotel for your wedding night. *Put together hotel and city information for outof-town guests.

2-3 Months *Purchase your accessories-jewelry, tiara, garter etc. *Purchase wedding bands. *Decide on your favors. *Purchase all your under the dress essentials and take them to your dress fittings. *Decide on special ceremony songs & readings. *Book wedding day transportation.

*Choose and order bridesmaids’ dresses. *Choose and order your wedding dress and veil. *Research and book vendors, eg. florist, baker, DJ, photographer etc. *Set aside blocks of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. *Order and send out save-the-dates. *Research and buy wedding insurance. *Order your wedding invitations and wedding announcements. page 94

6 Weeks *Send out wedding invitations *Order ceremony programs and decide on your wedding vows. *Submit your newspaper wedding announcement. *Research local marriage license requirements. *Schedule hair and makeup trial appointments. *Purchase entire bridal party, parent etc. gifts. *Purchase and send out rehearsal dinner invitations.

3-4 Weeks *Purchase ceremony accessories. *Confirm honeymoon reservations. *Pick up marriage license and your wedding dress. *Meet with your officiant & musicians and/or DJ to go over details. *Create a wedding day schedule. *Have your bridal potraits and/or boudoir photography session. *Schedule wedding day hair and makeup appointments.

1-2 Weeks *Call guests who have not RSVP’d and make seating arrangements. *Confirm all details with your reception site. *Give guest count & confirm all details with your caterer and baker *Determine your receiving line. *Confirm all details with vendors etc. *Pack for your wedding night and honeymoon. *Put final payments and tips for vendors in marked envelopes.

Day Before *Designate someone to mail out your wedding announcements on the wedding day. *Pull together your wedding dress, all accessories, and emergency kit. *Designate someone to drop off items to ceremony and reception sites *Get manicure and pedicure. *Enjoy your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner! *Set your alarm!

Your Wedding Day! *Tell your parents how much you love them and thank them. *Set aside time after your ceremony to have a private moment together.

*Enjoy your Wedding Day!

Q

A &

Q- We need to postpone our wedding for personal reasons. We have already mailed our wedding invitations. How do we inform our guests that our wedding is postponed?

A- Simple mail your guests a printed card or a personal note. There is no need to explain why your wedding is postponed. If you have guests traveling a long distance, call them as soon as possible so they can cancel their travel plans.

Q- How do we choose wedding colors?

A- Here are some questions to ask yourself and your fiance. What are your favorites colors? What does your venue look like? What do you want the style of your wedding to be? Also, browse through magazines (bridal and non-bridal), blogs, and websites like pinterest. Remember there is no wrong way to pick your colors. Just pick colors you fit you both!

If you would like to have your questions answered, please send them to info@itsaboutdetails.com.

10 it’s about details - issue 4

All the glitters and sparkles!

“This is the time of year to sparkle and shine from head to toe! Bring out your little black dress and accessorize with glitter, metallics, and some bling.”

-Heather Kimble Executive Editor/Creative Director

1

Satin Dress with Chiffon Ruffles

2

Nolita Necklace

3

Smoothie Kisses

4 5

www.hm.com

www.stelladot.com

www.clinique.com

Table Glam Crystals

www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

All Glitter Platform Wedge www.charlotterusse.com

the hotlist 2 1

3

4 5

issue 4 - it’s about details 11

date night

14 it’s about details - issue 4

Baking Cookies Together Bake Christmas cookies together! It’s a fun, creative, and inexpensive date night idea. After you bake and decorate all the cookies hand some of them out as presents to you family and friends.

Try this great Martha Stewart Sugar Cookie recipe from www.marthastewart.com.

Ingredients:

Directions:

4 cups sifted all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 2 cups granulated sugar 2 large eggs 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Sift flour, baking powder, and salt into a bowl.

Put butter and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until pale and fluffy. Mix in eggs and vanilla. Reduce speed to low. Gradually mix in flour mixture. Divide dough in half; flatten each half into a disk. Wrap each in plastic. Refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour or overnight.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees with racks in upper and lower thirds. Let one disk of dough stand at room temperature just until soft enough to roll, about 10 minutes. Roll out dough between two pieces of plastic wrap to 1/4 inch thick. Remove top layer of plastic wrap. Cut out cookies with a 4-inch onepiece-shaped cookie cutter. To make an ornament, cut out a hole from the center of the neck about 1/4-inch from the edge using a straw. Transfer cookie dough on plastic wrap to a baking sheet. Transfer baking sheet to freezer, freeze until very firm, about 15 minutes. Remove baking sheet from freezer and transfer shapes to baking sheets lined with nonstick baking mats. Roll out scraps, and repeat. Repeat with remaining disk of dough.

Bake, switching positions of sheets and rotating halfway through, until edges turn golden, 15 to 18 minutes. Let cool on sheets on wire racks.

issue 4 - it’s about details 15

style & beauty

Holiday & Winter

by Stefanie Savino

hair trends!

This is the time of year for celebrating and having good times with those that matter most!

Hair Accessories A major trend right now for the fall/winter season is hair accessories. From embellished hair clips, studded and sequin head bands and knitted caps there are so many ways to make your hair shine! They will help you look polished when you are running short on time and glam up your outfit! Scarlett Johansson and Drew Barrymore know how to showcase beautiful hair accessories.

Braids

This trend has grown so much over the past few years and it is sticking around this holiday season. Two popular ways to wear this trend is braiding the front pieces of your hair to the side or my incorporating a braid into your ponytail like Amanada Seyfried . The fish tail braid worn loosely to the side is a romantic and chic way to wear this trend.

Soft Waves

Adding a slight wave into your hair whether you wear all down, half up, or in pony tail is the perfect way to amp up your look and add some volume and body to your hair. Angelina Jolie’s hair looks beautiful and effortless with soft waves. This look can be easily achieved using hot rollers, one inch curling iron or flat irons. This look is soft and will always complete your look. You can wear this with an embellished headband or clip one side up with a barrette.

All these looks are simple and easy to do yourself. This time of year brings out the best in everyone so embrace the season and add some glitz and glamour to your holiday look!

Ponytail

The classic and iconic ponytail is always in style especially during the holidays.

Whether it’s worn high on the head, like Salma Hayek, to the side or low it will always be in trend and look beautiful.

Also, with this trend is tying the ponytail up into a high bun or low chignon.

Holiday Beauty Tis the season to shine and be gorgeous!

s l a i t n e s s E

by Stefanie Savino

1. Eyeliners bring the eyes alive! Even on days when

you don’t feel like putting on a full face you can put on some eyeliner and you will look polished. Cream pencil eyeliners are great, because they are smooth to apply, waterproof and you do not need to sharpen them! I love MAC Technakohl in Graphic Black.

2. Concealer & Pressed Powder

Sometimes we all need to touch up throughout the day.

However you need items that are portable and won’t make a mess out of your makeup bag. Cover girl makes an amazing concealor called TruConceal. It comes in a lip gloss style bottle with a sponge tip wand for easy application. It comes in a variety of tones and blends in evenly to the skin. Powder is essential for touch ups throughout the day and can be used to take down any unwanted shine. I cannot live without MAC Mineralize Skin finish. It’s a mineralized powder that evens out the skin tone and makes the skin look flawless and natural. I keep a travel size blush brush in my bag for application.

4. Carmex! This time of year a lot of women start stepping back from

their lip glosses and reaching for their lipsticks. Dry, cracked and flaky lips will only be emphasized once you apply lipstick. So, to keep your pucker lipstick ready always apply Carmex throughout the day to keep my lips moist and supple.

20 it’s about details - issue 4

The holiday season is coming upon us and soon we will be seeing all the decorations and our schedules will be overflowing with holiday get togethers, parties and family time. Now more than ever your makeup bag needs to ready to go to get you gorgeous for each event!

3. Red Lipstick! Every woman has to have at least one red lipstick or

a deep toned lip color! It can take some time to find your perfect shade of red but once you do you will love it and want to wear it all the time! I love red all year round, but I think its super sexy during the holidays especially at cocktail parties or even New Year’s Eve! It can be worn great alone or add some shine by using a clear lip gloss.

5. Blotting papers are a must for all makeup kits everywhere!

This product will help reduce and take down any shine that you may get throughout the day along with keeping your makeup fresh! My personal favorite is Sephora’s Matte Blotting papers. They absorb any excess oil without drying your skin or removing your makeup. It leaves your skin looking matte and perfect!

6. Little Odds & Ends for your makeup bag of items

that you may need depending on the event you are going too.

Always carry at least two hair elastics and some bobby pins in the event you want to change up your hair style or need to pin hair out of your face. Always have a little can of hairspray which is good for your hair and if you should get a run in your stocking!

Finally, always have a variety of lip glosses and two different lip pencils so that you can change the look up!

When putting together your makeup bag for the holidays it’s important to add items that you love to use and colors that flatter you! You want to have items that can help you change your makeup and hair from day to night in the event you do not have time to go home and freshen up! It’s important to have these core items and then you add and take away items from time to time, making your look different at each event.

Happy Shopping!

issue 4 - it’s about details 21

Winterize Your

Wedding by jeannine comito

M

any brides are choosing the winter

months for their nuptials. Some

brides think that since the winter

months are so cold, they should opt for a different style gown than they may truly want…this should not be the case. Choose the gown you want sleeveless, cap sleeves, or long sleeves regardless of the month. If you do choose a sleeveless gown, purchase either a long wedding coat, fur wrap and/or fur muffs.

Check out www.thebridaljewelrystore.com for some great winter gloves, capes and muffs.

What color will your bridesmaids wear?

The shades associated with winter tend to be red and green, however unless you want a holiday wedding you should avoid these bold tones. There are many colors that bring out the best of the winter. Plum or burgundy can make a great story, but there is something about ice blue that brings the princess fairy tale to life. For the bride, there are designers that have blue gowns in their collections; such as Maggie Sottero’s Estella.

This gown will bring glamour to any bride!

It is a full gown with a gathered skirt and corset closure, a scoop neckline and asymmetrically ruched bodice. You can even find a Maggie Sottero gown on facebook for sale; look for fan page “Ice Blue Maggie Sottero Wedding Dress For Sale” (ships from the UK). Choosing a white gown is still a great option, go for a gown that is heavy in fabric, it will look amazing in the pictures. If you do go for a white or ivory gown then you can choose the ice blue color palette for your bridal party.

24 it’s about details - issue 4

photography by Julia

photography by Julia

After the bridal gown is picked, it is time to think about your make-up and accessories. According to make-up artist Kim Alicea, a winter bride should begin thinking about their wedding day skin at least a month prior to the big day. To avoid chapped, dry skin the bride (and any women involved in the wedding) should exfoliate and moisturize daily. Also, begin a routine of using lip balm in the morning and evening. In the winter months, many women tend to be more pale (than in the summer months) and lighting in the winter tends to be more blue; this will change the way your make-up looks. “Avoid the instinct to bronze your skin” claims Kim, instead use make-up to create the glamour look. Use peachy or bright pink blushes and add in a red lip; since red lipstick is making a big trend statement (think Taylor Swift) this will be easy to accomplish.

Kim did mention if you do use the red lipstick, keep your eyes simple using taupe, ivory and soft browns.

One last tip from Kim was about sparkle…leave it to the jewelry and do not add any shimmer make-up to your face. As the bride, you can dazzle your groom and guests with breathtaking jewelry. This is an accessory you can have a lot of fun with! For the bride, if you do decide to wear a fur shawl, add a little jazz with a brooch. There are some winter themed brooches at www.thebridaljewelrystore.com, check out “bold etched flower bridal pin” and “rhinestone snowflake brooch” for some ideas. Depending on the bridal gown neckline you have many options for a necklace. What about your shoes? If there will be snow on the ground (and you’re a boot lover) splurge on a pair of blue UGGS. Photographer Julia Diebold captured a great moment of this January bride tip toeing through the snow in her pair of UGGS.

Regardless of the winter month you choose, the love in the air will be the warmth for both you and your guests. issue 4 - it’s about details 25

features

events & competitions it’s about details was lucky enough to participate in two competitions and cover a great event. All three benefited multiple, national, and local charities.

If you would like it’s about details to cover your event e-mail us! We would love to hear about it!

E-mail - info@itsaboutdetails.com

issue 4 - it’s about details 27

a taste of

chili

West Chester’s 9th annual chili cook-off!

so yummy!

T

he Chili Cook-off is an annual

event that draws hundreds of

people to the small town of West

Chester. Their quest is to find the best tasting chili. These throngs of people are greeted with chili samples from countless competitors. Each competitor’s tent is decorated to attract the most attention possible. Along with the decorations, each tent is equipped with a sign that not only tells the name of the chili but rates the “heat” level to warn the tasters of what to expect. The tasters are given wooden nickels that they can use to cast their vote for the “People’s Choice Award” for the best tasting chili. The competitors are broken down in to four categories: restaurant, business, non-profit, and hometown chef with winners in each category as well.

It’s about details was in the trenches as one of the many battle-hardened competitors vying for the coveted prize of people choice, among others. Armed with 30 pounds of beef, a multitude of peppers and onions, countless cans of beans and sauce, and a plethora of spices; it’s about details concocted two 20 gallon pots of chili to feed the masses. Beautiful models were on hand to give out the chili and entice the crowd into voting.

This event was full of fun and food. But the event is about more then chili. All the proceeds from the event are donated to local charities by the West Chester Rotary club. Multiple non-profit organizations received grants after the 2011 cook off.

and competitors in face paint!

Fun chili names

30 it’s about details - issue 4

issue 4 - it’s about details 31

S

g for a n i p p o h

Cause!

Looking for the perfect dress for that special day but can’t justify the cost? Wedding dresses can be very expensive, and most places don’t offer many affordable alternatives. Sometimes, looking at the price tags, one might think, “For what this costs, couldn’t this money be used for a better cause?” Wouldn’t it be better if you could spend that money to help people who are less fortunate and in a time of need? What if there was a way to save money on the dress and help a good cause at the same time? Well, there is a way.

Bride’s Against Breast Cancer is an organization whose goal is to raise breast cancer awareness as well as support those afflicted by the disease and their families. Brides Against Breast Cancer takes donations of gently used wedding dresses. The dresses are prepped and sold, at a discounted price, to a bride for her special day. The proceeds are used in helping those who are currently in the battle against breast cancer.

We were given the opportunity to witness one of these events this year. It took place at the Hyatt Hotel in Baltimore, MD. Upon arriving, brides were treated to a decadent breakfast that featured a variety of food choices as well as champagne. They were then ushered to a large conference room and waited for the doors to open. Inside the room were hundreds of designer and brand name dresses, all affordably priced. This event left little to be desired by the brides, as there seemed to be dresses for all styles and all sizes. The volunteers staffing the event were attentive and prompt.

5 Breast Cancer Facts: 1.

It is estimated that 230,480 women will be diagnosed with and 39,520 women will die of cancer of the breast in 2011.**

2.

On January 1, 2008, in the United States there were approximately 2,632,005 women alive who had a history of cancer of the breast.**

3.

The lifetime risk of getting breast cancer is 1 in 8 women.**

4.

Some of the best prevention is early detection. Women over the age of 40 should get annual mammograms.**

5.

Preventing breast cancer can be as easy as eating healthy and being active.** **Facts are from the American Cancer Society. www.cancer.org

34 it’s about details - issue 4

After talking to some of the volunteers as well as the brides, the sentiment seemed to be the same across the board. This is a great cause and a great way to get a dress while still saving some money.

issue 4 - it’s about details 35

Whose Table

is it Anyway?

W

hat do you get

when you get some of the best florists, wedding planners, and table designers together? Well, we found out at the Society of Wedding Planners “Whose Table is It Anyway?” table design competition. Over fifteen industry professionals came together to create some amazing designs that truly pushed the limits of the ‘average’ design. The designs were divided into four categories: wedding décor with a budget over $10,000, wedding décor with a budget under $10,000, theme décor with a budget over $10,000, and rising star. Attendees were given one vote per category to vote for their favorite table.

The event was held at the Phoenixville Foundry. This venue was a repurposed foundry that is on the National Historic Registry. At 18,000 square feet, it is the largest venue in Chester County. The space is both grand and industrial. It still contains some of the original machinery that was used when the foundry was still active.

One of the best parts of the event was that all the proceeds from the event went to the “Donors are Hero’s” – Gift of Life Family House. The Gift of Life Family House is a non-profit organization that helps the families of transplant patients. They provide a refuge for families by providing a place to stay, a well stocked kitchen, transportation to local hospitals, and many more amenities to help them feel at home. The event raised hundreds of dollars to help further the mission of Gift of Life Family House.

Food was provided by J. Scott Catering, including sliders, milk shakes, and a hand rolled sushi bar.

The DJ of the event was Sound Choice Disc Jokeys, Inc. Live entertainment through out the night was provided for the event by Brandywine Valley Talent (BVT).

Wegmans sponsored an onsite flower competition. Competitors were on a time limit and created some very beautiful and interesting designs.

Other companies that helped make the night a success are: Franks Union Wine Mart Shutterbooth Fireworks Concepts Party Rental LTD. Majestic Images Lindsay Docherty Photography Blossom Prodeuctions

Floral Competition Winners

Aribella Events www.aribellaevents.com

Jillian Stahl 610-620-4305

Something New weddings & events www.snweddings.com

Lauren Reilly 267-222-8325

Laurie Sasko Designs www.lauriesaskodesigns.com

Blue Moon Florists www.bluemoonflorist.com

ilonka floral decorator www.ilonkafloraldecorator.com

christofer +janesson design +detail

www.christoferjanesson.com

Rhapsody Weddings & Events

www.rhapsodyweddingsevents.com

Peaches Panache

267-949-7057

precise events inc www.apreciseevent.com

CASA PAPEL www.casapapel.com

Passion

for Petals www.passionforpetals.net

Phoenixville

Foundry

www.phoenixvillefoundry.com

select

event rentals www.weparty.com

Karen P ecora Events www.karenpecoraevents.com

Sweet Talk

www.sweettalkcakes.com

Wegmans www.wegmans.com

ilonka floral decorator www.ilonkafloraldecorator.com

christofer +janesson design +detail

www.christoferjanesson.com

Table Art

www.tableart.net

Robertson’s

Flowers

www.robertsonsflowers.com

it’s about details

SteamPunk

styled table design.

it’s about details was in the wedding décor over $10,000 category. The inspiration for the table was “steam punk” style. It incorporated the colors black and purple and combined them with the industrial machinations that are often found with in steam punk. The place settings were capped off with a deliciously beautiful cupcake from Bredenbeck’s Bakery.

Table Design

Winners

(from left to right)

Rising Star:

Laurie Sasko Designs

Theme :

Passion for Petals

Weddings Over $10,000: ilonka floral decorator & Christofer Janesson design

Weddings Under $10,000: Blue Moon Florist

stationery & favors

Winter Romance from www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com This save the date and invitation set is beautiful and elegant. Detailed snowflakes, with touches of red, beautifully decorate this stationery collection. Perfect for your winter wonderland wedding.

Save the Dates

92 it’s about details - issue 4

Invitation

Response Card

issue 4 - it’s about details 93

Warm & Cozy favors Here are some great ideas to keep you warm with some fun favors.

coffee & coffee cup Coffee is always popular drink.

Place fresh ground coffee in a custom or unique cup with the bride and groom names and wedding date make a great favor. Want to spice it up a bit, try flavored coffees.

warm cappuccino candle Like coffee, cappuccino is really popular. These great smelling candles can make a great favor. Putting these candles inside a mug make for a great presentation, and your guests will love it.

hot chocolate Hot chocolate tastes great and can be used as a great favor. Package it in a fun way and let the good times roll. For even more fun, you can get specialty hot chocolate like godiva or flavored chocolates.

94 it’s about details - issue 4

find all these favors and more at -

www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

issue 4 - it’s about details 95

forgotten details

Bridesmaids Gifts 100% Pashmina Scarf www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

$34.98

Heart Shaped Fondue Set www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

$24.98 96 it’s about details - issue 4

Diamond Shaped Paper Weight www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

$19.98

Silver Plated Classic Heart Compact Mirror www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

$15.98 Designer Cosmetic Bag in Twill Polyester www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

$14.98 issue 4 - it’s about details 97

Groomsmen Gifts Silver Plated Brass Cigar Tube www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

$14.98 Novelty 5 Piece BBQ Tools in Black Golf Bag and Golf Grips www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

$35.00

98 it’s about details - issue 4

Brushed Finish Stainless Steel Tankard www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

$24.98 Black Nylon / PVC Shaving Travel Kit www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

$29.98 Stainless Steel Multi Tools www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

$19.98 issue 4 - it’s about details 99

behind the scenes - cover shoot

issue 4 - it’s about details 101

Here are some of the behind the scene photos and a couple of photos that were GREAT, but didn’t make the cover. We had a fun time working with everyone involved in our first cover shoot. The colors, red and black, along with the holiday season was are inspiration for this shoot. Red and black are edgy colors together, but can easily look beautiful and classic. Be sure to check out our website for even more behind the scene photos and photos that didn’t make the cover!

102 it’s about details - issue 4

Models: Emily Coombes Dennis Martin Make-up Artist/Hair Stylist: Kim Alicea Photographer: Carrie Lorraine Photography

issue 4 - it’s about details 103

venue spotlight

Riverstone Cafe Unique Tapas, Oyster, and Martini Bar 610-594-2233 www.riverstonecafe.com 143 West Lincoln Highway, Exton Pa 19341

R

Frozen Moments Porttraits

iverstone Café is a great tapas

restaurant with an oyster bar

and martini bar included.

Not familiar with tapas?

Tapas literally means, ‘small plates’ as in small portions or snack size portions. The idea is to order a bunch of different plates to share with a group. We had the opportunity to have a business dinner there and it was a great experience. The atmosphere is fun and all the sharing makes it a much more social event than a normal dinner event.

Whether you are looking for a fun date night, have a small get together, or your wedding reception, Riverstone Café is able to meet your needs. They offer a small room for private events. If the private room is not adequate to hold all your guests, then reserve the entire restaurant

issue 4 - it’s about details 105

Frozen Moments Porttraits

Frozen Moments Porttraits

food & pastry

issue 4 - it’s about details 111

112 it’s about details - issue 4

Enjoy a piece of pie!

A

lot of weddings feature your traditional

wedding cake or even cupcakes. To add

a winter twist to your wedding, you can capitalize on a great winter tradition, pies.

Pies are a lot of fun and come in a variety of flavors that everyone can enjoy. Pies can be used to make a beautiful display and give that ‘homey’ feeling. Since each pie only serves a few individuals, you can offer an array of flavors. Have fun and enjoy the winter tradition in addition to your wedding cake or cupcakes!

issue 4 - it’s about details 113

ceremony & reception

great color combos Beau Blue (we love the name!) and silver are perfect winter colors. Simple, elegant, and sparkly.

Beau Blue

Silver

Rose and white are great colors for a wedding on or around valentines day.

It’s all about LOVE! Rose

Black

White

Red

That’s right, we are telling you black and red are a great color combo. They aren’t for every bride. These colors are for the unique and daring bride. Black and red are beautiful and edgy colors.

Check out our cover. Black and red were our inspiration!

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www.nclare.com Located in the suburbs of Philly, N Clare is the up-and-coming custom cake shop in the area.

Owned and operated by Nicholas Clare, he has been working with custom cakes for over 2 years.

Etsy-fy your wedding You crave all things personalized, diy, and unique, but don’t have time, don’t have the special skills, or just don’t want to make it.

Etsy is a great place to find just about anything for your wedding day. From unique cuff links to custom cupcake wrappers. Support small businesses and have a fantastic personalized wedding.

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Storybook Wedding Invitations Letter Box Ink

A lot of people consider love to be like a fairy tale. What better way to portray a fairy tail then with storybook invitations. The invitations tell you and your groom’s beautiful love story. Include your love story, pictures, and more.

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Upcycled Guitar String Cuff Links by plucking pendants

The wedding is about the groom too! These upcycled guitar string cuff links are great for that Rock N’ Roll groom. They also make great gifts for his groomsmen.

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photo by frozen moments portraits

Custom Paper Flower Boutonniere

by Designed By Stephanie

Paper flowers are not only beautiful and unique, but are perfect when you or the groom are allergic to real flowers. Paper flowers will never die! You will have a great keepsake you can display in your home after the wedding day.

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Rustic Guest Book Alternative

by Dazzling Expressions

Instead of going with a traditional guest book, a more fun solution can be something a little bit more unique. In this case have your guests write their well wishes on the hearts and put them in a treasure chest. This idea can be executed in a variety of ways to fit almost any theme.

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Chalkboard Sign Table Numbers

by Morgan Hill Designs

Coming up with a creative way to add table numbers to a table can be very hard to do. While most people just use a print out or a type of card, using chalkboard signs can be a great way to solve the problem and be unique. Not only is it a great alternative, it is also a very green solution.

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Hot Chocolate Jar Favors

by DaSweetZpot

Just about everyone loves hot chocolate. It’s one of the perfect winter drinks to warm up with. That’s why it makes a great favor. These jars are filled with hot chocolate for you guests.What an awesome favor to warm your guests hearts.

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Sip & Repeat Carnival Straws by pinkcherrymama

How cute are these straws! Your guests will love them and they make the perfect accessory for any drink. Great for carnival, circus, vintage, and so many more wedding styles.

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Custom Cupcake Wrappers

by Melissa Geisel

Cupcakes are a popular trend at various events, especially weddings.

Why not adorn them with custom wrappers that compliment your color scheme. They look fabulous and easy on the budget.

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planning

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Children & Weddings by amanda walls

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A

re you having children in your wedding? Are you going to invite them to your wedding?

Everybody thinks kids are absolutely adorable! You can imagine a flower girl walking

down the aisle with her sweet little white dress and a basket full of flowers. The ring bearer walks down the aisle in his tiny suit. Unfortunately, some kids will get nervous and shy. It can be intimidating to walk down an aisle when all eyes are on you. You may also have the ceremony in the middle of nap time, when the children in the pews begin to get restless.

Children are just unpredictable.

Children can be a wonderful part to your wedding party, but you have to make sure that you choose them strategically. You have to think about many different aspects of the children and their roles, including the child’s personality and trying to keep them entertained!

The right personality. Before deciding on who will be walking down the aisle be-

fore you, ensure that they have the right personality for it. You want them to take direction well.

You also don’t want them to get too shy and run down the aisle (or away from it).

Entertain the during the photography session. When doing group shots, you may want to take their photos first. If they are included in some of the last photos, they may begin to get fidgety and impatient. If this is not feasible or you know that photos are going to take awhile, make sure you give them something to do. Depending on the age, you can give the kids coloring books, reading books, or puzzles.

Is your reception going to be adult only or are you going to invite kids? If you are going to have children at your reception, keep them in mind throughout the planning process.

Kid-friendly dinner selection. If you are having a plated dinner, make sure

that you have a kid’s meal. You may enjoy filet mignon, but the kids will probably rather have some chicken nuggets! If you are having a buffet dinner, make sure that there are some choices that will appeal to the younger crowd.

Separate play room. If your venue allows it, you can set up a separate play room for

the kids. Give them some craft tables, a television and a DVD player or video games. You may also want to think about hiring a nanny to watch the kids throughout the reception.

Entertain them! Hire an entertainer that both kids and adults will enjoy. Research

local photo booths and caricaturists. Make a “kids table” when you are creating your seating chart and put coloring books and crayons at their table. You can also set up another activity table where the kids can make their own crafts and bring it home with them!

So, when you are making a decision on inviting kids in your wedding party and to your wedding reception, there are a lot of details to think about to ensure that everything runs as smoothly as possible.

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Cash bar....when it may be okay by amanda walls

1

Chances are, at some point in the planning process you will hear the term “cash bar”.

Many writers for the wedding industry say that it is not good etiquette to have your guests pay for their drinks, but I disagree for many reasons.

Personal beliefs. If you are not a drinker, and do not believe that drinking is

appropriate, than you do not have to have any alcohol at your reception! Please do not feel pressured to have an open bar – or any alcohol - if you do not want it.

2

Time of day. If you are having a morning wedding, an open bar may be inappro-

3

Guests are not drinkers. If the majority of your guests do not drink for any

priate. Your guests just will not be expecting to go to the bar at 10am. A cash bar allows you to keep the alcohol an option if your guests want it.

reason, then why spend the money for them to have an open bar? When you have an open bar, you have to spend a certain amount of dollars per person. If the majority of your wedding guests will not have any alcohol, then you will be wasting your money!

Having a cash bar option allows your drinkers to drink as much as they are willing to pay for!

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4 5

Money. Let’s face it, an open bar can be expensive! If you are going to go into debt

because you can’t afford to serve your guests alcohol, then skip the alcohol! I am sure that your guests will understand that it just was not in your budget. Having a cash bar is a great option because your guests will still be able to drink and you will only need to pay for the bartenderfee.

Rowdy guests. If many people that will be attending your reception do not

know how to drink responsibly, then a cash bar might be right for you. You want to have fabulous memories about your wedding day, not memories about how Uncle Joe couldn’t stop drinking and made a mess in the bathroom, or how Cousin Louie was in the entire reception video because he was all over the dance floor. People tend to drink less at a cash bar then at a an open bar!

Although I do not think that it is required for you to have an open alcoholic bar for your guests, I do think that you should allow your guests as much water and soft drinks as they want. You do not want to have your guests pay for all of their water and soda!

I hope that this gives you a new perspective on the dreaded cash bar option! If you fit into any of these categories, I hope that you are aware that an open bar is not your only option!

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Photography by Nicole Marie

real weddings & engagements

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Welsley & Bryan May 27th, 2009 Bryan, went on to explain how much he loved her, cared about her, and how he wanted to spend the rest of his life making her happy.

Frozen Moments Portraits

W

elsley and Bryan met

back in 2006 while

working together at Blockbuster and attending the same school. As the years went by, they fell in love and their story began to unfold.

In 2009, they planned on vacationing together in Mexico during the week of Wels's birthday. Bryan spent so much time making the perfect plans; massages on the beach with champagne, kayaking, swimming with dolphins, and ending with a candlelit dinner for two on the beach.

Unfortunately, their vacation had to be postponed due to the swine flu outbreak. A few weeks later, they finally we able to arrive in Playa del Carmen.

Bryan had managed to reschedule all his plans and that special night was ending. Incredibly nervous and anxious, Bryan got down on one knee (in the sand) and Wels immediately said "what are you doing, we aren't going to find your contact in the sand".

Instead of searching for the non-missing contact, Bryan told Wels to shut up and went on to explain how much he loved her, cared about her, and how he wanted to spend the rest of his life making her happy.

Their wedding is schedule for December of this year.

Lori & Tom Halligan July 17th, 2010 Photography by Nicole Marie

How they met.................

It was at work about five years ago that Tom and Lori met. It’s always a risk to start a romance at work, but not to worry…they began with a friendship. They shared ideas and confidences, and there was usually a laugh either as commentary on their work or just to cheer each other up.

Tom was known at work as the guy from New York – kind of a cultural oddity in the Midwest. But Lori enjoyed his quick humor, witty quips, and fast talking. They enjoyed many business trips together, especially to New York City. Sometime along the way their business friendship became a more personal relationship…maybe even a romance.

One of Lori’s favorite early dates with Tom was the time he cooked chicken parmesan at her condo. The chicken burned, and in the cold of winter, they had to open windows to clear out the smoke. With no dinner to eat, they danced in her living room and talked by her fireplace nearly all night. It was perfect, Lori says.

With that blurred line between friendship and romance in their story, Tom and Lori can’t pin point when they fell in love. They would more likely describe their relationship as growing into love. They eventually moved in together, but they didn’t have any particular plans to get married.

The Proposal Then one day last May, Tom surprised Lori by pulling into a jewelry store at the Plaza in Kansas City where they began to look at engagement rings. They ended up going to a jewelry designer to pick out a diamond and have a ring custom made.

Once Tom had the ring in hand, he made a plan to formally propose and give her the ring during a 4th of July trip to Boston. However, Lori was getting impatient to receive the ring because she knew it was in the condo.

One evening during The Daily Show, Tom gave in about the ring. He began an impromptu proposal, talking about what a journey...down a long road‌they had been on together and that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. With tears of happiness, Lori was delighted to have him put the ring on her finger. She says she didn’t sleep all that night‌just staring at the ring.

VENDORS Event Planner/Event Design: Juliet Events Ruffled Pillows: Steinmart Venue: Midtown Loft and Terrace, NYC Photography: Photography by Nicole Marie Caterer: Ome Caterers Rentals: Party Rental Ltd. Invitations/Day of Stationery: Elle Ette Designs Money Box: Shea Chic Florist: Studio Artiflora Video: Orange Films Lighting/gobo: JB Lighting Cake/cupcakes: City Sweets & Confections 917-817-1058 Officiant: Julie Laudicina Hair/Makeup : Gorgeous Bride NY Photobooth: Scott Roth Limo: Broadway Elite

Their Wedding NYC was an obvious place for them to get married, Tom grew up in NY and Lori loves the city.

They both fell in love with Midtown Loft & Terrace when they saw it. Tom and Lori knew it was the perfect spot for them to begin their life together. Their fondest memories of the wedding was being able to give their guests an experience of a lifetime. Many of their Kansas City guests had never been to NYC so it was an opportunity for them to see it in an amazing way. Tom and Lori loved being able to have the cruise the night before - that was truly incredible for everyone, even the native New Yorkers loved it. And then getting married on the rooftop with the Empire State Building as their backdrop was breathtaking. Lori said, “Absolutely my dream wedding!!!� And Tom completely agrees!

Gina & Brent August 13th, 2011 Frozen Moments Portraits

VENDORS location: Water Gap County Club DJ: Music Drs Cake: Donna Race Freeby Dress/tux: Sarno and Son

G

ina's brother ,Pat, said he had a nice friend but thought that the height difference might be a problem for us (Gina being 5'9" and Brent being 5'5).

Weeks later in April 2006, Pat was taking Gina out to play pool at the local tavern. Gina had been in a car accident and was in a full leg cast feeling kind of down and not being able to do anything. Little did she know life that night was gong to change for the better! Pat & Gina went to the tavern and were palying pool when Brent walked in. Pat still had not introduced Gina to Brent ,so she walked over to Brent and introduced herself .

She immediately noticed Brent's smile, his eyes, and sexy voice. The next day, back at Pat's apartment, they saw each other again. They actually read the dictionary together., which they still get teased about periodically. During the day together, Gina was realizing that she never wanted to be away from Brent!

In December 2009, Brent took Gina to the Sands Casino, out for a nice dinner, then home to relax.

When they got home, Gina went to change her clothes to be comfortable to relax, while doing this, Brent was setting up to change Gina's life forever! Brent is always doting on Gina and pampering her. So, when she came out it was no to surpise to hear nice music and see candles lit. Brent gave Gina a full massage ending with her fingers.

She was so relaxed that when Brent slipped the ring on her finger, she thought he had used to much oil & she tried to wipe it off. When she couldn't wipe it off, she looked at her hand and then saw brent there with tears in his eyes. He asked her to marry him! Gina did not hesitate to say YES! She knew this man would always be true to her, treat her with the highest regard, always lift her up,never speak ill of her, take care of her no matter what, keep her safe, always tell her how beautiful she is, and he never ever let a day go by without telling her he loves her!

Their wedding took place this past August . From Gina's red dress (which was a total surprise to Brent), to the customized cake topper, the day reflected their personalities perfectly.

These two have been through many tough times and have grown together through those times, supported each other, pushed one another to achieve goals, and have grown together as a family and friends.

d.i.y spotlight

coffee bean bag favors Here’s what you’ll need:

Coffee beans Burlap fabric Ribbon or Twine Small tags (about an 1” or 2”, with a hole on the end) Black marker Thank you stamp & Ink

Step 1: Cut your burlap in a 15” x 15” square.

Step 2: Place 2 cups of coffee beans in a ziplock bag.

Step 3: Position your stencil where you would like it. Hold it in place, take a marker and color it in.

Step 4: Place the bag of coffee beans in the center of your burlap square. (Make sure your word is facing down!)

Step 5: Gather the sides of the burlap around and above the bag of coffee beans. Tie your ribbon/twine around it tightly multiple times. Then tie the ribbon/twine in a knot in the back.

Step 6: Take your ‘Thank you’ stamp, place it in the desired spot on your tag and firmly press.

Step 7: Thread your ribbon/twine through the hole on your tag and secure. Then tie the ribbon/thread around your burlap.

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professional spotlight Wedding Planner Cherishable Weddings and Events

Ferrara Photography

Owner: Amanda Walls E-Mail: Amanda.Walls@CherishableWE.com Website: www.cherishableWE.com Phone: (302) 709-1540 Location: P.O. Box 5312, Wilmington, DE 19808

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How long have you been a wedding planner?

I have been a planner for a couple of years now, and my business has been open for just over one year!

What made you want to become a wedding planner?

I have a huge family! I have over 20 cousins just on one side of my family and a couple of them got married within the same year. I went to their weddings and fell in love! I wanted to know their color scheme, all about their centerpieces, and why they chose that location. I quickly got my certification and began working for other local planners, and I knew that I wanted to make wedding planning my career.

When did you start your business?

On August 1, 2010, I decided to open by own wedding planning business.

Why did you start your business?

I started Cherishable Weddings and Events for a couple of reasons. I saw how other people were operating their businesses and felt that I could assist my clients better. I wanted to answer all emails/phone calls quicker. Most importantly, I wanted to put myself into my planning. It is so important for me to get to know my clients on a personal level and I knew that if I had my own business, I would be able to accomplish that.

What do you love most about your business?

I love my clients. I enjoy getting to know my clients and I love seeing the smiles on their faces when they see everything coming together. Our relationships build so much that I tend to keep in touch with all my clients long after their wedding date.

What are all the services you offer?

I offer anything from day-of-coordination to full service planning. I have three main packages outlined on my website, but I can also create your own custom package.

Tell us anything else you would like us and our readers to know about your business. It is extremely important that you get along well with your wedding planner! I would suggest looking at my website, www.CherishableWE.com, and signing up to receive your free report that you may use during your planning process.

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Ferrara Photography

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Ferrara Photography

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Bridal Couple Figurine

www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

"The Love Pinch"

7 things to love

!

A T N SA

Premium Cigar Humidor with Hydrometer and Humidifier www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

HOT Chocolate!

Ginger Bread Cookies!

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Christmas Lights!

Presents!

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For more inspiration and planning help visit our website.

www.itsaboutdetails.com