S A R ATO G A
BRIDE Spring / Summer 2019 Complimentary
More BRIDES
More STORIES
More DRESSES
Destination: Saratoga!
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S A R ATO G A
BRIDE
From the Editor
OWNER/PUBLISHER Chad Beatty
Chris Vallone Bushee, Editor-in-Chief cBushee@SaratogaPublishing.com • @SaratogaBride 518-581-2480 ext. 201 • SaratogaBride.com
Welcome to Saratoga BRIDE!
hair by Diane Palma, photo by Alice Corey
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Chris Vallone Bushee GRAPHIC DESIGNER Marisa Scirocco
More, More, More… that’s my theme for this issue!
ADVERTISING DESIGNER Morgan Rook
More great couples sharing their reasons for choosing this area in our Destination: Saratoga Springs section! More local editorial! More photo shoots (meaning more dresses!) And… more REAL BRIDES!
ADVERTISING Jim Daley Cindy Durfey
Saratoga BRIDE magazine is not out to replace Martha Stewart Weddings (wish we could!) in your collection of bridal planning magazines, we just want to show you all the wonderful talent available… right here in the Saratoga / Capital Region / Adirondack area! We were very pleased to win #1 Niche publication by the New York Press Association last year and strive to continue to bring you relevant local coverage on the wedding industry in our coverage area. In addition to photo shoots, advice, trends and swoon-worthy ideas… We have a ton of ads. That’s right, ADS… These are the businesses you need to help plan your big day. Read them, dog ear the pages you want to call (or just click on the ad to go the business’ website if you’re viewing us online!). They are also the reason we can provide this wonderful resource to you FREE OF CHARGE, so please support them and mention us by name when doing so. Happy Planning!
Chris Cover photo by Niki Rossi, story on pg. 176
One of our local dress shops offered up much-needed advice on finding the perfect dress for ANY body (page 30) and the two co-workers I sent over to try on dresses agreed... you really do need to keep an open mind : ) You shouldn't be afraid to try all your style options. A dress I normally wouldn't have chosen off the hanger for myself, actually turned out to be my favorite when I tried it on per Laura's recommendation. We should really open ourselves up to the many possibilities of what could make us feel beautiful. Who knows, you might all be pleasantly surprised..." -Morgan 4 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
GENERAL MANAGER Robin Mitchell
This dress I would have never picked for myself and would have completely ignored it but it was probably my favorite – Thank You Laura! -Marissa
WRITERS Alice Corey Anne Gordon Carol Godette Dave Bigler Hannah “Lux” Walsh Megin Potter Susan Blackburn PHOTOGRAPHERS Alexandra Meseke Photography Alice Corey Alyssa Johnson Photography Danni LaRaia Dave Bigler photos and film EKO Photographics Elario Photography Green River Pictures Heather Bohm-Tallman Juan Soler Katherine Wright-YTK Photography Kyle Garron Love and Light Photographs Meaghan Aldridge Matt Ramos Nicole Nero Studio Niki Rossi Out of the Ordinary Photography Rob Spring Photography Sarah Wigley Collins Susan Blackburn Photography The Harris Company Tracey Buyce Trish Kemp Tricia McCormack Photography Trisha Millier Photography Twice Beloved Studio PUBLISHED BY
SaratogaTODAY Five Case Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 tel: (518) 581-2480 | fax: (518) 581-2487 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com Saratoga BRIDE is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper, Saratoga Publishing, LLC. Saratoga Publishing shall make every effort to avoid errors and omissions but disclaims any responsibility should they occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent of the publisher. Copyright © 2019, Saratoga TODAY Newspaper.
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S A R ATO G A
BRIDE contents spring / summer 2019
184
Tracey Buyce Photography
A Good Read
10 Newsworthy... 28 Hair 30 Fitting ANYBody! 35 Dream Honeymoons 38 Let’s Elope 43 Destination: Saratoga Springs 55 Alynn & Andrew 59 Danielle & Mathew 43 Daniella & Steven 51 Laura & Mark 47 Meghan & Jeff 62 Flower Girls & Ring Bearers 84 Grooms & Groomsmen
Real Brides
88 Alyse & Chris 144 Amanda & Lucas 152 Amy & Brad 160 Amy & Kyle 164 Brittani & Charles 128 Brooke & Brian 184 Elizabeth & Conor 142 Elizabeth & Steve 100 Kariann & Anthony 116 Katie & Jake 96 Kira & Adam 120 Kristen & Joshua 180 Kelli & Charles
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Photoshoots
08 Kylee & Ben 1 176 Maggie & Tom 136 Marissa Phillip 140 Marissa & Stephen 132 Meghan & Sean 156 Meredith & Christopher 168 Michaela & Alex 124 Rebecca & Jeremy 112 Shanna & Angel 84 Sophia & Edwardo 92 Stephanie & Matthew 172 Sydney & Chris
65 Styling a Modern Elopement 68 Bohemian Vibes 75 Enchanting Days, Dramatic Nights
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WEDDING PROFESSIONALS...
BE SEEN
in Saratoga’s Award-Winning Bridal Magazine!
1
#
JUDGES’ COMMENTS:
“Clearly the standout entry in this category.
This magazine is beautiful and the content structure genius. Amazing photography, readable content and eye-catching advertising.” - New York Press Association
DEADLINE: JULY 10 PUBLICATION DATE: AUGUST 16
Call TODAY to reserve your space! Five Case Street, Saratoga Springs NY 12866 (518) 581-2480 • saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com 8 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE
Splurge?
“Splurging on our music for the event was most worth it! That included our Mariachis (surprised everyone during the ceremony and cocktail hour!), our incredible band Phase One who rocked the house the entire night, and for the ceremony, our opera singer Victor Starsky, my niece and Spa City Duo!”
“The tent and the bathroom trailers, they were like the Ritz Carlton of bathroom trailers and so worth it! This bride wasn’t going to the bathroom in a porta potty :)”
“I went a little over budget for my wedding dress. This was my dream dress and I would not trade it for the world. We also went over budget with the photographer, but do not regret that either. Not only did our photos come out beautifully, but “The food… Juan made our day really fun and Hiring Ryan O'Shea of Suburban Kitchen was 100% worth it!! Ryan was brought a lot of positive energy!” an absolute pleasure to work with! He went above and beyond to ensure that the food was everything we wanted and more!” “Ryan's dishes have a unique, upscale flare, and his presentation is absolutely stunning! We would highly recommend “We definitely splurged on Suburban Kitchen!!” the food and drinks, but it was totally worth it!”
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S A R ATO G A
BRIDE M A G A Z I N E
can be found at all area Bridal Shows, such as this one coming up on
FEBRUARY 24TH!
LONGFELLOWS WEDDING SHOW Sunday, Feb 24, 2019 11:00 AM Longfellows Hotel & Conference Center 500 Union Ave. Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Free Admission (518) 406-0505 It's the charming setting of Longfellow's Restaurant with its unique atmosphere that makes the Longfellows Wedding Show a one-of-a-kind experience. As a venue host of bridal events for 19 years, we invite you to share the excitement of your special day and meet with over 40 wedding specialists in one convenient setting. Each wedding professional is present to offer you their expertise and help you plan the day of your dreams. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres, door prizes and more await you.
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Lavish IN-TENT
Y
WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED
ou’ve chosen a spectacular location for your celebration. Whether it’s tucked away on a secluded beach, beside a blooming garden or on the rolling countryside – one thing is certain – here is where you want to be. A new company, GlampADK is providing an ideal solution for you to contentedly visit with your friends and family longer. Their glamorous tent rentals let you get the most out of your stay and connect with nature, without giving up any of your usual comforts. “It’s like having a plush hotel room in the woods,” said GlampADK founder Andrew Percetti.
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POP-UP PRIVACY Percetti loves getting away into nature to enjoy the pleasures of camping and hiking in the serene beauty of the Adirondacks. Intrigued by the idea of an outdoor escape for himself and others, last September he began gathering tents and furniture to bring this stylish lodging option to you – wherever you’d like it set up – even if it’s in your own backyard! Working in conjunction with Bullseye Party Rentals for the last eight years, Percetti understands the business of pop-up parties. Offering luxurious overnight tents is a natural additional to the high-quality party tents, inflatable movie screens, portable taverns, tables, chairs and other essentials that Bullseye Party Rentals already provides. GlampADK makes camping effortless for you with deliveries from their 16’ box truck and a complete set-up in 1 ½ hrs.
OPULENT OPTIONS Inquire 2-to-4 weeks before your event for a reasonablypriced, 2-night minimum GlampADK rental package. Their canvas tents are available in three sizes and require between 20’ and 30’ circumference on level terrain able to support standard tent stakes hammered in flush to the ground to set-up at your location. Inside the tents, carpeting is laid down under normal-height bed frames holding the comfortable queen mattresses. Tents are able to accommodate up to six people in three beds. The linens, blankets and pillows to dress the beds are all provided. Locally-made wooden night stands, a collapsible storage ottoman that doubles as extra seating, battery-operated lighting and a 4-piece wicker patio set are all included in the standard package. GlampADK also adds in all the finishing touches. Their dapper décor includes antique accessories such as metal milk jugs, vintage Adirondack Life magazines and more. Enjoy s’mores with add-ons like grills and a fire-pit, and increased comfort with options that include a solarpowered shower or a generator to power fans, cellphones and exterior lights.
THE COOL OF THE WILD Appreciating the outdoors without sacrificing your time or comfort is at the heart of GlampADK. You can get a unique glimpse at the breathtaking expansive scenery of the region captured in the aerial photography and video Percetti has created working with LaMountain Imaging. Then you can start planning your own effortless enjoyment of the outdoors. “It’s a cool, unique and different way to bring in all those things you like about camping in the Adirondack mountains, but with a posh, stylish feel to it that’s effortless for you,” said Percetti. For more information, go online and find them on Facebook @GlampADK saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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A SNEAK PEEK AT SARATOGA’S NEWEST VENUE…
The Saratoga Lake Golf Club WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY ALICE COREY
These “Behind the Scenes” shots by Alice Corey were taken during the Something Bleu Bridal shoot at Saratoga Lake Golf Club. Check out Cailean Mackay’s cozy new venue and beautiful sister, (and new co-owner of Something Bleu Bridal!!) Marissa on pages 63 – 73.
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I
f you are looking for Joanna Gaines meets the Adirondacks in a venue, you’re in luck!
The Saratoga Lake Golf Club hits the trifecta with a neutral backdrop, upscale Adirondack touches, and the convenience of being just 10 minutes from downtown!
For almost 20 years Cailean Mackay, owner/general manager, dreamed of building a new venue to attract patrons -and wow has he done it! To say the venue has deep roots in family is an understatement. The moment you step into the foyer you realize this venue is something special. Perched high above your head is a shiny wooden canoe that proprietor Alexander Mackay, Cailean’s Father, hand crafted himself. Hemlock beams taken from the family’s property adorn the ceiling in the space that will house the new restaurant; The Hideaway. A grand floor to ceiling rocked fireplace gives the space a warm intimate feel. The bar was milled from a tree that was taken right off the golf course property. Cailean laughed as he told me that it sat in his garage for 2 years awaiting the construction of this gorgeous building. Behind the bar a wooden wall that would make Joanna Gaines proud adds depth and interest, which was designed by Cailean’s girlfriend Tara Maurer who worked closely with him on the interior design of the space. A window that opens from the bar to the upper outside deck will allow guests to order beverages in the fresh air while taking in views of the lush course. Alexander Mackay built the par 72 golf course nestled on 200 acres of pristine forest over the course of many years, opening in 2000. Complete with a driving range and practice facilities, this public course will appease golf loving Grooms as well.
The banquet hall accommodates smaller parties of 40 people for bridal showers, baby showers, and retirement parties to weddings of up to 150 guests with room for a 9-piece band and a sizable dance floor. The neutral backdrop will allow brides and party planners to truly bring their visions to life. Brides can customize every choice from tables and chairs to linens and menu. In-house catering provides everything the couple needs for food and beverage with ease. The venue has a gorgeous private bridal suite to allow the couple - and wedding party - a space to enjoy cocktail hour before introductions into the reception take place. The forested golf course itself is a photographer’s dream and provides the
perfect backdrop for sunset portraits of the couple.
An outdoor fire pit and corn hole boards will draw guests outdoors. Another special touch is the ability for couples to create a unique wedding hashtag that can be broadcast and shared with all guests on screens placed strategically throughout the venue.
Cailean and his team have thought of everything… it is beautiful, clean, and unique, and feels like an Adirondack oasis just minutes from downtown Saratoga. It only left me with one question… Can I convince my husband to renew our vows?
Locals and golfers alike will be happy to know that a menu is currently being crafted by restaurant owner and experienced Food & Beverage Manager Chad Dorrough. The Hideaway will be open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner starting in mid-April. For summer and on special occasions, brunch will entice visitors with mimosas, bloody Marys and a carefully curated buffet. This full-scale restaurant will feature a full bar with 10 beers on tap. It even has a sweet private room which seats 16, perfect for hosting small dinner parties, rehearsal dinners, birthdays and even daytime business meetings. Antler sconces carry the Adirondack feel into this room also.
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TOGA HERITAGE's
GIFT REGISTRY LAUNCH WRITTEN BY CAROL GODETTE PHOTOS BY SUSAN BLACKBURN PHOTOGRAPHY FLOWERS BY RENA'S FINE FLOWERS
“Who would be better qualified to launch a Saratoga gift registry than a real Saratoga Bride?” declared Deborah DePasquale, owner of TOGA HERITAGE.
Deborah and her husband Jim’s love story revolved around Saratoga-they met on a blind date at the Stadium Cafe and two years after that fateful date, they married at Saratoga National. Since Saratoga held a special place in the couple’s heart, all the events surrounding the wedding were “Saratoga themed” and Deborah sought out local vendors to round out their celebration. After spending a few hours listening to Deborah’s story, it was evident that brides would appreciate her vision and experience, to create a unique registry celebrating all Saratoga has to offer. Deborah’s true passion has always been “the art of gifting” and she knows that gifting is part of who she is. Once you enter the TOGA HERITAGE shop, on the lower level of Silverwood at 398 Broadway, you are warmly greeted by Deborah, ready to give her personal service and attention to each potential customer. She is eager to hear everyone’s story and what brought them into her shop. The holiday season drove many customers into her relatively new location to purchase the popular line of TOGA HERITAGE clean burning coconut wax candles. Would-be brides and grooms began requesting a registry to add to their wedding websites and “Save the Dates.” Deborah’s carefully thought out “measured growth business plan” told her it was time to meet those couples’ requests. 16 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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“TOGA HERITAGE is a line of quality over quantity products I’d use in my own home; what I’d be proud to gift to family and friends. It’s my aesthetic,” proudly states Deborah, a woman with distinctive taste. So, what could a future TOGA HERITAGE registry look like? It would include a variety of curated home decor items ranging from a collection of white porcelain serving pieces; distinctive barware-stemless wine glasses, a decanter and ice bucket; linen pillows and wool blankets; and outdoor entertaining pieces such as unbreakable Tartan plaid tableware. Dog owners will find dog bowls and treat jars. What makes each gift unique is the trademark “TOGA” logo and tagline ‘love where you live'-the perfect mantra for newlyweds! One custom made gift that grabbed my attention was a 9” by 14” TOGA Heritage Valet tray, featuring an 1864 photo of Broadway and the Grand Union Hotel sourced from the Library of Congress. Admiring the design, I was transported back to a very different but equally elegant Saratoga. Other custom created valet trays feature the latitude and longitude coordinates for Saratoga Springs. After careers in sales, marketing, fashion merchandising and interior design, Deborah believes she has found her dream job- helping others select unique, heirloom quality gifts that couples will treasure for a lifetime. And what bride wouldn’t LOVE that? For more information about the registry contact: info@TOGAHERITAGE.com
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WE'RE ENGAGED!
Y
Melanie Bunk & Eric Sepci
ou can’t get to your “happily ever after” until you experience your “once upon a time,” and we couldn’t imagine a better place to start our story than in Saratoga Springs.
Well, once upon a time, at Starbucks on Broadway and Washington, during the winter of 2014, Eric and I met. While many in a coffee shop these days bask in the warm glow of their laptop or cell phone, we chose a different tact and interacted, instantly hitting it off with each other. Eric was going through a divorce, while I was ready to give up on ever “finding the one.” I’d never been married, and after searching and exploring what’s out there, I wasn’t sure it was going to happen for me. We took our time, growing our relationship while being fortunate enough to do together, what we both enjoy – traveling. We’ve visited Florida, California, the Bahamas and most of New England, exploring new places while finding our stride together, confirming what we both already knew, we were moving into our happily ever after. Fast forward to this past Travers Day, August 25th 2018. Eric had reserved a table at the Patio at 15 Church, one of our favorite dining locations in Saratoga, especially during Travers Weekend. Arriving a little early, we took in a bourbon tasting at another favorite location, the Gardens 18 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
at the Adelphi Hotel…realizing I don’t really like bourbon, we retreated to the Adelphi bar for a quick drink before our reservation. As always, the meal at The Patio was fabulous, only exceeded by the service. We took our time at dinner, enjoying the scene only a Traverse weekend brings with it. While there was still light, we walked down to “our” Starbucks to take a selfie for some memories. We lined up for the selfie, when I looked down and noticed the ring on Eric’s finger as he asked “Will you Marry Me?" I think I stared at him for a good 30 seconds of stunned silence, not realizing what he was doing, then, with tear filled eyes, I said “are you serious?" He was, and I burst into tears, saying yes and put the beautiful ring on my finger proudly. We didn’t need the excuse, but we returned to the Gardens at the Adelphi for a celebratory drink, and to bring a perfect end to a perfect evening. Our friends call us “love birds,” comment how perfect we are for each other and how we complement each other so well. A big part of our love story, (and great one for that matter), is the perfect backdrop. Our milestones and some of our best memories are in and around Saratoga, from where we met, to where we got engaged, to where we will be married….perfect. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
TIPS FROM A STYLIST AN INTERVIEW WITH ALAYNE CURTISS
WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTO BY DAVE BIGLER
W
orking with thousands of brides over her 25+ years in the business, Alayne Curtiss, owner of Make Me Fabulous, has created award-winning looks for clients, launched her own brand of bridal beauty products and has been featured in magazines including Martha Stewart Weddings and In Style Hair. We asked for her advice…
#1 Call 12 to 18 months ahead of time to book a trial session that will happen three to six months before the big day. “Many of the more popular stylists book up that early, especially if you’re planning to get married during a busy wedding season,” said Curtiss.
#2 Schedule a skin consultation early on – 6 to 12 months in advance to develop a skincare plan. If you’re planning on adding a tan to your look, schedule a trial early to find out which day of the tan is your favorite. “The color level will be darkest on day one and by day two or three, fades slightly, so you’ll want to see where you’re most comfortable,” advises Curtiss. #3
Hair and make-up choices will be determined by your budget. Decide early-on in the process what the bride will pay for and what portion will be paid for by the wedding
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party. How many people there will be? What will be included? Are you all going to the salon or having stylists at your venue? How long will they stay? “When we come to you there’s no extra charge if a bridesmaid wants false lashes, for example. You get all of our goodness and whatever your girls want - they get - in the time allotted,” said Curtiss. Spell out pricing in a written agreement.
#4 Search for different styles by scouring wedding blogs and Pinterest boards. “I tell my artists, ‘Instagram is your portfolio’,” said Curtiss. #5
Don’t be afraid to judge different looks and speak up about what you want. Wear a shirt and jewelry that is similar in color to your wedding day look. Come away from the 2 ½ hour appointment with photos from every angle and observe how the look changes throughout the day.
#6
Experienced wedding stylists like those at Make Me Fabulous put the pictures of your final look in a collage, in a digital online directory and have a hard copy printout to ensure you’re getting just what you want on your wedding day. After all… “A stylist’s biggest duty in life is to make you happy!”
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GROWING MEMORIES ON LIBERTY RIDGE FARM WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED
“
Robert and I have been married for 35 years and working together 24 hours a day, seven days a week since we opened our gates to the public 20 years ago,” said Cynthia Gifford, owner of Liberty Ridge Farm. “I’ve had couples who had come here on school field trips and are now coming back to get married! Some had their first date here or their engagement, some found us online and have come sight unseen,” said Gifford. In 2002, they built the Gifford Barn and began hosting wedding ceremonies and receptions. By August 2019, their farm market renovations will turn it into an ideal indoor ceremony space.
TENDING TO YOU “We do something unique for every couple. We add those extra touches to enhance the whole experience,” said Gifford. The handicap accessible parking lot and barn is serviced by several golf carts and a trolley to shuttle guests. The outdoor ceremony area, positioned on the banks of the Hoosic River, has a white birch arbor and wooden bench seating. “Photographers are just thrilled with the photo opportunities here on the farm,” said Gifford.
HARVESTING HAPPINESS Little girls visiting the farm are enchanted when they catch a glimpse of a bride. Open year-round, the Gifford barn accommodates 150 guests, has a large granite fireplace, 15’ ceilings and radiant heat hardwood floors. Dessert stations are set-up on the barn’s wrap-around deck. Chef Shaun Skaarup serves up a selection of catering options that include the farm’s own smoked meats. “Its good comfort food that can accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions and makes you feel you’re at home here on the farm,” said Gifford. Their event tent fits 200 people, a dance floor and catering cooking station. Indoor restrooms, outdoor fires, fireworks and so much more ensures your night is just right. “When you find a venue that hits your heart, you’ll know it,” said Gifford. For more information, go to LibertyRidgeFarmNY.com/weddings/venues 20 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Randall Perry Photography
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ONCE UPON A TIME.... Once upon a time…
S
ometimes, a girl has had just about enough of the online dating scene - and she goes on just one more date.
Eric and I chatted for hours over milkshakes, discovering common interests, common friends, a love of travel and adventure - and eventually - each other. Our romance was slow to start but four and a half years has flown by. When Eric asked me to marry him two years ago this December, I knew we would do something extraordinarily non-traditional: a destination wedding to a castle in the highlands of Scotland! We both love to travel and knew that we didn't want a big wedding. Twenty of our closest friends and relatives
Local Details:
accompanied us to Scotland to watch us declare our love to each other within the walls of a chapel built over a thousand years ago. That day - which was forecast at a 90% chance of rain was sunny, warm and perfect in every way imaginable! We can't thank our wedding planner and other vendors enough. As well as our families and friends for making everything about our wedding so perfect! I also can't thank my husband enough for taking my hand and jumping into every adventure with me. He, along with our families, have made this girl’s dream of being a princess getting married in an epic castle come true.
WEDDING GOWN Fancy Schmancy RINGS Mayfair Jewelers, Kay Jewelers PHOTOGRAPHER Tracey Buyce Photography
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Whimsy IS SO IN
WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER
A
s rustic chic, garden and vintageinspired weddings continue to grow in popularity, so does carrying asymmetrical, natural clutches of blossoms.
Think fresh and relaxed, with flirty, dainty and sweetly-scented, bell-shaped lily of the valley; the lovely, frilly sweet pea, and the crisp blue pop of a bit of tweedia. Accent vines are extremely prevalent in this season’s arrangements, said Deb Converse of Dehn’s Flowers & Gifts. The delicate, yet exotic jasmine makes it an enticing addition. Classic Charisma
Garden roses bring gorgeous grace and beauty to any wedding. Versatile enough to stand on their own or among an arrangement, affordability and accessibility keep them at the top of the list of bridal favorites. The long stems and layers of the ranunculus’ thin petals add a sumptuous softness to dramatic, cascading bouquet shapes that show-off an overflowing shower of flowers. For the elegant-yet-exotic look, orchids are an outstanding option. ‘Dendrobium’ and ‘Cymbidium’ varieties come in the bright, bold colors that are prominent this year. Unexpected, unique and intriguing, the spikey petals and fuzzy center of the King Protea speaks for itself.
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Blushing Bride
Appearing almost pink, “Living Coral,” the Pantone color of the year, is actually a shade of orange with golden undertones. Blooms in this color are readily available in at least a half-dozen different types of flowers, said Converse. Roses, the cheery Godetia, sunny gerbera daisies and the long-stemmed, lily-like Alstroemeria are just a few examples. Making Masterpieces
Fantastic foliage fills out a flourishing bouquet. The silvery-grey of the wide-leaf Dusty Miller complements jewel-tone buds. The unassuming sprays of the Italian Ruscus, and the Hoya vines’ almond-shaped dark-green leaves are fashionable foliage while its clusters of porcelain blooms are a crowd-pleaser. Cascading clematis, with its star-shaped blooms, pretty petals, long center tendrils and its luscious greenery looks heavenly. Even succulents have secured a spot in this season’s finest arrangements. Mixed-color and tone-on-tone bouquets made from reds and oranges are both going to give you that “OMG, it’s gorgeous!” reaction that every bride is hoping for.
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When it's all over... you'll always have the photos (...and video!) GETTING TO KNOW YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
While Taking Your Engagement Pictures WRITTEN BY HANNAH “LUX” WALSH, HANNAH LUX PHOTOGRAPHY
Engagement photos are relatively inexpensive
(consider them a "fingernail" if your wedding costs an arm and a leg), they can incorporate locations and outfits you couldn't otherwise include on the wedding day, and they provide excellent material for your save the dates and social media feed to “build the hype” leading up to the event. But there's one major advantage of the engagement session that dwarfs all other benefits: you have the opportunity to get to know your photographer and see if the chemistry is there. Stay with me here. It’s well-known that relationships need to start by breaking the ice. While it's certainly possible to do that “get to know you” dance with your photographer on the wedding day, it’s helpful to build that relationship upfront.
When I get married this October, I want to spend the day toasting champagne, happy-crying with my mom, and cherishing every moment with my brand new husband... not asking my photographer introductory questions. People photograph better when they’re comfortable. There’s no time to be camera-shy on your wedding day. The engagement session allows you to become familiar with your photographer in a low-pressure environment. You'll learn how they operate, and they'll learn how you operate with them.
From the photographer’s perspective: they'll learn which angles you look best from, the things that make you laugh as a couple, which poses you rock… and which poses might need a little more description while attempting. So, how to break the ice? Don't be shy. Be yourself. I love when clients tell me about their life, ask about mine, reference their favorite TV series, or show me pictures of their pets. It gives me all the more chances to build a relationship with them.
You have limited time at your wedding. Get that photographer-client bonding done beforehand and you'll be greeting your wedding photographer like an old friend on the big day and having that much more fun which is really what this whole event is all about!
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The Why and How of an
UNPLUGGED WEDDING WRITTEN BY SUSAN BLACKBURN
One of the fastest growing wedding trends is the Unplugged Wedding. What is an Unplugged Wedding you might ask? Well, dear Reader, it is when people are asked to either leave their phones at home or put them away for all or part of the wedding. I have seen everything from people being asked to not photograph during the ceremony to a virtual social media blackout. In the last 10-15 years there have been quantum leaps in technology, especially with phones, mobile devices and cameras. People can capture an image at an event and within minutes/seconds have it uploaded and shared literally worldwide thanks to these tech advances. So, what is the big deal?
1.
I have noticed the major difference with an Unplugged Wedding is that the guests tend to be more present in the moment. They are really listening and participating and (gasp) actually interacting with the other guests. Isn’t that what a wedding is all about?
2.
Some guests are private people and they don’t want their photo all over the Internet. With an Unplugged Wedding, their privacy is respected. Also, many times a Bride and Groom would like to be the ones to post images from their event first—after all, they are the hosts.
3. With social media consuming such a large portion of
peoples’ time these days, many guests see themselves as photojournalists—and end up compromising the quality of the photos the professional photographer is contractually obligated to provide to the bride and groom. An example of this is when five people jump in front of the professional photographer during the moment the bride walks down the aisle, either blocking the shot or ruining the exposure with their flashes.
Once you have decided to have an Unplugged Wedding, what is the best way to execute this type of event?
1.
Let guests know well in advance what your expectations are. Include an insert with the invitation informing them to leave their devices home/in their vehicle, or not use them during certain times. Follow that up with a nice sign when they arrive at the event.
2.
In case a guest has failed to read (or chooses to ignore) both the insert or sign, assign a courteous friend(s) to gently remind them that your event is to be Unplugged. Some people just need to hear it from an actual person.
3. Have the Officiant make a nice housekeeping
announcement to remind people prior to the ceremony so they stay present in the moment.
4.
Talk with your photographer about providing a sneak peek of images within a couple of days of the event to share some images. Everyone is excited to see photos from the event.
5.
Consider limiting the Unplugged portion to the ceremony and perhaps the Introductions/First Dance portion of the reception. People are generally more cooperative if they know they can pull their phones out later. If you would like to be the first people to share the event on social media, make sure people understand that.
Weddings have so many special and magical moments. Having an Unplugged Wedding ensures that your guests will stay present in the moment and enjoy all the hard work you did to provide a memorable day. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Do you really need a
VIDEOGRAPHER for your wedding?
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY DAVE BIGLER
LET'S BE HONEST, there is a long list of "must haves" for your wedding; those essential things that everyone says you can't tie the knot without, so why should video be one of them? Our company (Dave Bigler Photos & Films) offers both photo and video and has spoken to many couples in the 13+ years we have been in business. Most of our couples want both photo and video, which is why they hire us, but some of our couples simply are not sure if they need video.
The following are the three reasons I often give those couples that are on the fence about video; three reasons why I think wedding video should be on your "must have" list. 1) Emotions; video can capture the true passion and emotion of the day in a way that photo can't touch. 2) Posterity; it's sad to say, but no one lives forever and years and years from now having that toast from your Dad on film will be priceless. 3) Undervalued; for the amount of work that goes into quality video, you are paying far less of a markup then you do for most other things. My advice, talk to couples that invested in a quality video and see what they say, see if it really was an essential part of their wedding. 26  |  SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Emotions
Your wedding is going to be one of the happiest and most exciting days of your life. Quality video will capture not only your emotions but the emotions and reactions of your closest family and friends. Bigler has been shooting weddings since 2006, the same year that Facebook officially opened its platform to anyone with a valid email address (not just college students). In that time, we have watched the responses and comments to our videos and the amazing thing to see, is the feedback that couples get from their video years after the wedding. My favorite is reading the comments from people that share their wedding video on their 5th anniversary; the video transports the family and friends back to the fun of that single day bringing the joy and excitement of that time in your life back to life like no other medium can.
Posterity
One of the hardest realities of life is that our loved ones will not surround us forever. While this is not often a topic discussed in wedding magazines, it is a valuable reason to have your wedding day, the day when all your family and friends come together in one place, documented. Imagine if you could sit down and watch your great-grandparents wedding ceremony or hear the toast your great, great grandfather gave that night. Adding video to your day, will not only benefit you, but will benefit your future generations.
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Undervalued
Quality video is hard work. A quality video takes more hours, more equipment and more planning than photography does (there are some photographers that will disagree with what I am saying, but there are way more videographers that just said "AMEN BIGLER" after reading my words). The crazy thing is that despite video being more work than photo, it is valued far less, as a result it's cheaper than photography. Bigler has been shooting both weddings and corporate work alike since 2006 and in the corporate world video costs MORE than photography. In the wedding industry, because there is not as high of a demand for video, it costs less (this is a benefit to you as the consumer). As more and more people are realizing the value of quality video, it is getting more expensive and I predict will soon cost the same as photography (eventually costing more). So for now, its a deal (especially if you go with a company that offers both photo and video).
My advice is to talk to your friends who have recently gotten married. Talk to those that spent the money on a quality filmmaker and see if they think it was worth it. Talk to the friends that skipped the videographer and see what they think. One of the most common things I hear from people who skipped the video is that it is one of their only regrets from their wedding. A word of caution, like anything, you pay for what you get. There is a drastic difference between a cutting edge filmmaker and a bargain budget videographer, so do your homework and make sure you invest in a company that is going to give you quality video that will not only capture those emotions of the day but will do it in a way that you are excited to share with everyone.
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HAIR 28 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Left page: Top photo: REAL BRIDE: Marissa Miller HAIR: Kristen Delamater at Haven Hair Studio PHOTO: Andrew Franciosa see page 140 Bottom left: REAL BRIDE: Alyse Blanchette HAIR: Christopher Brain Salon PHOTO: Dave Bigler Photo and Flims see page 88 Bottom right: REAL BRIDE: Danielle Nye HAIR: Timeless Updos PHOTO: Trish Kemp and Kyle Garron see page 43 Right page: Top left: REAL BRIDE: Amy Schaffer HAIR: Amanda L. at Bella Vita Salon PHOTO: Sarah Wigley Collins at Rob Spring Photography see page 152 Top right: REAL BRIDE: Michaela Grandjacquet HAIR: Kathleen at Valentine's PHOTO: Meaghan Aldridge see page 168 Middle left: REAL BRIDE: Shanna Pagán HAIR: Julie Potter PHOTO: Alexandra Meseke Photography see page 112 Middle right: REAL BRIDE: Kira Favro HAIR: Revive Hair & Skin PHOTO: Heather Bohm-Tallman see page 98 Bottomleft: REAL BRIDE: Elizabeth Crawford HAIR: Complexions Spa for Beauty & Wellness PHOTO: Tracey Buyce Photography see page 184 Bottom right: REAL BRIDE: Bridesmaid of Meghan Yuzwa HAIR: Ambiance Salon & Day Spa PHOTO: Susan Blackburn Photography see page 132
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TO FIND THE DRESS...
Y
Forget the Rules Laura Mullen, Owner of Lily Saratoga
WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY SUSAN BLACKBURN PHOTOGRAPHY
ou are not a piece of fruit. Forget trying to classify your figure as a pear, apple or more of a butternut squash. Everybody feels beautiful – and any body looks bodacious – when wearing a fantastically fitting dress.
“Wedding dresses fit differently than anything you’ve ever worn before, ”said Laura Mullen, owner of Lily Saratoga.
Open Yourself up to ALL the Options Bridal boutiques are bristling with emotion. Under the bright lights, you’re on a pedestal, seeing
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yourself in the full-length mirrors while others openly evaluate how you look. Adding to the stress, confusion and doubt you may already be feeling, you’re surrounded by a bounty of beautiful dresses, trying to remember the shapes, features, embellishments and designers you studied and researched beforehand. “It’s really hard to do the work before you’ve tried on the dresses,” said Mullen. A bride may have dreamed of wearing a ball gown but after trying on a fit-and-flare style finds she’s fallen in love with the look instead. “Brides are often pleasantly surprised by what they like on their body, so I always tell them to keep a little bit of an open mind.”
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The Gift of Time Often, the wedding dress sets the tone for your wedding, so give yourself time to get it right. At Lily Saratoga, there are more than 200 dresses to try-on in all different styles and ranging to size 28. A sample sale room containing a collection of 60 dresses will also be opening mid-winter 2019. The Lily Saratoga Consultants aim to make each 1 1/2 hour-long appointment enjoyable and fun for each bride. Some brides don’t decide on a dress during the first appointment and come to revisit the same dresses at a later date; others change gears completely and gain clarity in the contrast after multiple appointments. Scheduling your first appointment nine months to a year before your wedding is prudent because it often takes
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four-to-six months for a dress to be delivered. Designers do offer rush options and Lily Saratoga can provide a list of trusted seamstresses to complete the fitting alterations.
Go Bare Under There If you have a nicely fitting strapless bra to wear while you try on dresses, feel free to do so, but it’s not really necessary, said Mullen. The defined structure, boning and padding of many of the dresses makes it feel perfectly natural to try things on - without upper body undergarments. “Your wedding gown is an extension of yourself. It is designed to make you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself.”
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Reinterpreting styles to make them more universally flattering for all kinds of body types is common in the bridal industry. “You never want to wear something you feel uncomfortable in just because it’s in fashion. A bride is most beautiful in what’s comfortable for her.”
Start Here If your brain is still telling you that you can’t trust your body, provide it some peace by starting your search by trying on a couple of silhouettes that often look stunning on any shape: an A-line and a fit-and-flare dress and then go from there. “There’s a big resurgence of the A-line silhouette right now,” said Mullen. Fitted at the waist and flowing outward at the skirt, it draws the eye in toward a flattering waistline. The fit-and-flare or trumpet silhouette has a fitted bodice and a flared skirt that begins below the hip.
Go for a Fit that Feels Good To get a great wedding gown you must go with what feels good. Before you even walk out of the dressing room to see what it looks like, you’re going to experience what it feels like. The ethereal flow of chiffon is quite different than the supportive structure of a stiff silk Mikado.
One of these designs might be the one for you. Then again, the right dress might just surprise you. “There really are certain dresses that come to life for a bride and I’m always amazed by that,” said Mullen.
A smaller bride might feel lost in a voluminous mermaid-shaped dress, and a bustier bride, too boxy in a straight sheath style. Lily Saratoga has a collection of 20 dresses from Essense of Australia’s “EveryBody / EveryBride” line that can be ordered in sizes to 34. The staff provides measurements, consults the designers’ sizing charts, uses fitting clips and makes recommendations on how to achieve the finest fit possible. “We take each situation, each bride and each dress and try to the best of our ability to get you the best fit,” said Mullen.
Comfort is in Fashion No one wants to look back at their wedding photos years from now and cringe because they chose something too bold and trendy. But fear of what’s coming up in the fashion future shouldn’t dissuade you from a dress you love. “Bridal trends don’t change as drastically as everyday clothing. Designers use what’s trending in ready-to-wear and put a bridal spin on it,” reassured Mullen.
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Ask about reserving our Exclusive Bar Car for your special event! ROBIN GETCHELL-SMITH & MARK SMITH 518.681.1926 DELICIOUSLYDIFFERENTFOODS@GMAIL.COM DELICIOUSLYDIFFERENTSPECIALTYITEMS.COM
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Five Case Street, Saratoga Springs NY 12866 (518) 581-2480
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Our Favorite Italy Destinations for 2019: AMALFI
COAST AND SICILY
DREAM HONEYMOONS
to Italy WRITTEN BY ANNE GORDON PHOTOS PROVIDED
AMALFI COAST -
SORRENTO is the northern most town on the Amalfi Coast and a great choice if you can only pick one town to visit during your stay. Day trips and excursions are easy from Sorrento including; visiting the other coastal cliffside towns, spending a day on the water, taking the ferry over to Capri or even touring the ruins of Pompeii. Sorrento sits upon a cliff and faces the Bay of Naples with stunning views of Mount Vesuvius. There is a town square, Piazza Tasso, that is lined with cafes, restaurants and shops along with narrow alleys with lots of hidden gems to be discovered. BEST OF THE BEST SORRENTO HOTEL
GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR VITTORIA* One of the most iconic hotels of Italy, still owned and managed by the same family (and they live there!). Established in 1834, the hotel was built on the same property where Emperor Augustus had his private villa, so it is possible to see ancient Roman ruins across the five-acre private gardens – full of orange, lemon and olive trees - all local staples of the coast. Original antiques, unique rooms, amazing views, a central location, stunning pool, a few restaurants and bars (one Michelin starred) all make this hotel an extremely special place on the Amalfi Coast.
Grand Hotel ExcelsiorVittoria, Sorrento, Aurora Suite saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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BEST OF THE BEST SORRENTO EXCURSION
The Lemon Farm Tour is our favorite, hands down. This half day tour is nothing short of spectacular as you can meet 3 unique Sorrento families and not only learn/ watch them do their trade, but also taste/eat/drink/enjoy the results. It is not only delicious, but a very authentic experience and a lot of fun. From the lemon farm with limoncello, lemonade and olive oil to the cheese factory (amazing!) and then off to pizza making with the “pizza man.” POSITANO is a village located south of Sorrento and is magically set within a steep cliff lined with narrow streets with a pebble beach along its coastline. Positano is the place to be and be seen and is usually very crowded during high season. There are a lot of great hotels, shopping, boutiques, cafes and bars, the most popular being ‘Music on the Rocks.’ John Steinbeck is quoted as saying “Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone.” Harper’s Bazaar 1953
BEST OF THE BEST POSITANO EXCURSION
Full-Day Private Yacht Charter (and regardless of the wait time,) the Blue Grotto is a MUST SEE! RAVELLO is set 365 meters above the Sea by Italy’s Amalfi Coast and home to iconic cliffside gardens, unbeatable views along with a quaint and historic Italian village. BEST OF THE BEST RAVELLO HOTELS
BELMOND HOTEL CARUSO* was formerly an 11th-century palace. Our absolute favorite part of this hotel is the (almost unbelievable!) infinity pool that boasts some of the best views in the world. You will also enjoy complimentary boat rides as part of your stay here. The truly something unique and special here for honeymooners is the “Infinity Dream Dinner,” which is a private candlelight dinner under the stars while floating on the hotel’s infinity pool, all with a private butler.
BEST OF THE BEST POSITANO HOTEL – LE SIRENUSE*
Le Sirenuse opened in 1951, when four Neapolitan brothers turned their summer house in to a charming hotel overlooking the bay of Positano. Today, the 58-room boutique hotel is considered one of Italy’s best, yet it still retains the intimate and personal feel of a private home. We recommend enjoying the luxury spa, heated pool along with evening cocktails and great views at the romantic Champagne & Oyster Bar and then top the day off with dinner at Michelin starred restaurant, La Sponda. This infamous restaurant, which also boasts gorgeous sea views, is illuminated in the evening by four hundred candles that create an unforgettable atmosphere, especially for honeymooners.
Grand Hotel ExcelsiorVittoria, Sorrento, Italy - Panoramic view
For those traveling in May and October, you can look forward to somewhat cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. During high season (June through September), we recommend Positano for those couples who want to be in the mix of fun and sun as it becomes a very lively town (sometimes crowded) and very hot during the days. A great pool is essential.
Belmond Hotel Caruso, Ravello, "Infinity Dream Dinner" 36 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Le Sirenuse, Positano, pool overlooking the coast PALAZZO AVINO* was built in what was once a 12th century private villa for an Italian noble family, then opened as a hotel in 1997. What makes this resort unique and a favorite of ours is their ‘Clubhouse by the Sea,’ in Marmorata, a short 15-minute drive from Ravello (via complimentary shuttle starting at 9:30am daily). All hotel guests can enjoy the beach platforms directly on the sea along with a pool, restaurant and lounge chair service. Open May through October. Best of both worlds. As for excursions in Ravello, there is really no reason to leave the sanctuaries that are those two hotels. They are destinations in and of themselves. Of course, go into Ravello town and possibly do a walking tour, enjoy the shops and restaurants, but other than that, enjoy the view!
SICILY -
TAORMINA, SICILY is a hilltop town on the east coast of Sicily. Sicily deserves a dedicated trip to see the entire island (we consider it one of the world’s best kept secrets), but if you want just a small taste (and you do), we recommend Taormina. Enjoy some of the best cannoli’s (we love Roberto’s) and cuisine of your life while strolling along the Corso Umberto.
Palazzo Avivo, Ravello, lounges by the pool with a view
BEST OF THE BEST TAORMINA HOTEL
BELMOND GRAND HOTEL TIMEO* The first hotel to be built in the city; you will enjoy views of the coast along with the beautiful Mount Etna. It is a Sicilian hideaway in the heart of town that fuels the imagination. Our favorite and most unique part of this hotel is its central location to town and the Greek Theatre (a must see!). This resort also offers complimentary shuttle service to its sister hotel’s private beach at the Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea, the other “best” hotel in Taormina. You truly cannot go wrong with this choice since you get them both.
Belmond Timeo Hotel,Taomina, view of Mount Etna and sea
BEST OF THE BEST TAORMINA EXCURSION
MOUNT ETNA Plan for a full-day guided tour of this incredible volcano. Venture to the summit, enjoy wine tasting (fun fact: some of the best wine is produced in volcanic soil). Pack a warm jacket, it’s cold up there, but you will literally feel like you are on another planet, it is one of the best experiences we can recommend. Definitely do the helicopter transfers if you can, to get the absolute best views as well as maximizing your time on Etna. *Virtuoso property – All Virtuoso properties booked through Live Life Travel will receive VIP amenities that are not available online; contact for specifics For more information on any of the above, contact Anne Gordon, Bridal Travel Specialist and Owner of Live Life Travel at anne@livelifetravel.world BelmmondVilla Sant'Andrea,Taormina, beach saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Let's Elope...
IN SARATOGA
Laurissa &Joey Virgadamo 38 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
T
he perfect day, just the two of us eloping on Saratoga Lake. With the help of The Inn At Five Points & The Adirondack Cruise Company we were able to live our dream elopement. This day was exactly the way we wanted it, just us, amazing views, yummy foods and the ability to just soak in time with each other. It started with us getting breakfast in bed at The Inn At Five Points, getting ready together and jumping into our car headed to Saratoga Lake. When we got there we were greeted by a few of our vendors who made this day the absolute best day of our lives! We ate like kings, sailed around Saratoga Lake on a bluebird sky kind of day, listened to our favorite songs by a local live guitarist and were married in a private ceremony on the beach, just us and the seagulls. After we were married the officiant had a bottle of champagne that he popped open and poured us both a class, Joe & I laughed because we had a secret! We told him, we were pregnant...with TWINS!! We held each other for the next several minutes and cried tears of joy. Our day ended with a beautiful meal on the boat as we sailed around watching the sun go down and soaking up the memories. We will never forget this day, and we cannot thank everyone involved enough for giving us this perfect day!
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Details ELOPEMENT DATE July 31, 2018
CEREMONY Adirondack Cruise Company RECEPTION The Inn at Five Points PHOTOGRAPHER Dawn Honsky Photography STATIONERY SUITE Holly Winnie Calligraph WEDDING GOWN Lambs Hill Bridal, Beacon RINGS Blue Nile GROOM'S CLOTHING ASOS HAIR & MAKEUP Make Me Fabulous FLOWERS Jayflora Designs CATERER & CAKE Austin Bayliss Cakes & Catering BAND Seth Warden Trio TRANSPORTATION Adirondack Cruise Company
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DESTINATION:
Saratoga Springs
Danielle & Stephen Nye saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Details
WEDDING DATE April 6, 2018
CEREMONY Church of St. Peter RECEPTION Hall of Springs PHOTOGRAPHER Trish Kemp & Kyle Garron of Trish Kemp Photography VIDEOGRAPHER Chris Hosein of 86 Hour Photography PHOTOBOOTH OSnap Photobooth SAVE THE DATE SUITE Jenny C Design INVITATION SUITE Print Hub – Windsor, CT WEDDING GOWN Designed by Morilee from Bridal Belles – Berlin, CT BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Azazie RINGS Bill Selig Jewelers, Simsbury, CT GROOM & GROOMSMENS' TUXEDOS Jos. A. Banks HAIR & MAKEUP Timeless Updos FLOWERS Deb at Dehn’s Flowers & Greenhouses CATERER & CAKE Mazzone Hospitality DJ Mike Garrasi of Music Man RECEPTION RENTALS Total Events FAVORS Saratoga Olive Oil TRANSPORTATION Premier Transportation & Uber Events REHEARSAL DINNER Wheatfields FIRST DANCE 'Sweetest Devotion' by Adele HONEYMOON DESTINATION Spain & Portugal OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS Saratoga Hilton, Holiday Inn & Courtyard, Saratoga Springs
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M
y husband Steve and I met at UMass Amherst in 2011, where we both went to college. My husband is originally from Uxbridge, MA and I am originally from Windsor, CT. After college, Steve moved to Saratoga Springs to work for Global Foundries and I split the next year and half between Bar Harbor, ME and Portsmouth, NH working in seasonal hotels. We would visit each other about once a month and loved exploring the towns that we lived in. After two years, we decided to move back closer to home (Worcester, MA) to be together and then a few years later, we decided to buy a home and settle in my hometown of Windsor, CT.
The best part about our wedding was that just as we suspected, the majority of our family and friends stayed for the weekend and we got to meet up with everyone downtown throughout the day on Saturday. It was great to hear the stories about the wedding that we didn't know about and catch up with guests that had traveled far and wide to spend time with us. While guests stayed at three hotels, Caroline Street was a convenient meeting place between all the hotels and we loved that everything was walkable so that we didn't have to worry about guests’ safety. Since our
wedding, we've spoken with countless friends and family member that have begged us to take them with us when we go to the races each year or during the winter when we visit. Even though most of our guests only live about 2 hours away from Saratoga, most had never been before and agreed that there is truly something for everyone… restaurants, bars, shopping, history, museums and of course gambling! Some have even returned for a trip on their own! Saratoga is the exact Destination Wedding we wanted and we're so happy that we chose it for our special day!
Throughout the time after Steve moved away from Saratoga, we would visit at least twice year during the Winter for Saratoga Beer Week and during Race Season in the summer. Every trip to Saratoga involved bringing friends and family to show them why we loved Saratoga so much! During each visit, we always joked that it would be amazing to get married in Saratoga, but it would most likely never happen. Right after we got engaged in November 2016, we attended a “Destination Wedding” in the Bahamas. It was great to have the extra days before and after the wedding to visit with friends and family. It was at that point that we decided that we wanted to have a "Destination" Wedding, but somewhere a little closer to home. We had attended so many weddings where you barely see the Bride & Groom and then go home the next day. We figured that if we got married on a Friday, most of our friends & family would make a weekend out of it and we'd get a chance to see everyone the day after the wedding. We looked at multiple different venues in Saratoga and even attended the Tie The Knot In Toga event, which is where I met most of my vendors! After some time, we finally settled on Friday, April 6th, 2018 with the ceremony at The Church of Saint Peter and the reception at The Hall of Springs. On the day of the wedding, the weather wasn't the best (we had snow, rain and it was super cold!), but we had a blast! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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DESTINATION: Saratoga Springs
Meghan &Jeff Boscoe saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Details LOCATION Saratoga National Golf Course PHOTOGRAPHER Tracey Buyce VIDEOGRAPHY LaRose Media STATIONERY SUITE Paper Dolls WEDDING GOWN Something Bleu Bridal ALTERATIONS Will Fit U In MAKEUP Blush518 FLOWERS Blooms DJ Music Man Entertainment ICE SCULPTURE The Ice Man DANCE LESSONS Saratoga Savoy HONEYMOON DESTINATION Live Life Travel (Anne Gordon) HOTELS FOR GUESTS Holiday Inn HOTEL FOR GETTING READY Pavilion Grand Hotel REHEARSAL DINNER Wishing Well
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M
y family runs a thoroughbred breeding farm and horses have always been a huge part of my life, both racing and showing! When Jeff proposed over 2 years ago, I instantly knew Saratoga was the place for our wedding and that our “theme” would include horses! We couldn’t have picked a more perfect venue which combined Jeff’s love of golf and my love for horses.
imagined our special day without her in it! She was our flower girl and walked down the aisle with one of my younger cousins. We had a family friend make her a custom collar out of my mom’s wedding dress and Jeff’s Mom was able to make custom flowers out of her wedding dress and the bridesmaids' dresses to accessorize the collar with. It was so beautiful and looked perfect on her! The entire weekend was absolutely amazing, and we were
able to enjoy celebrating with all our friends and families. I did all the planning myself with help from my mom! It was challenging to get everything done, as I now live in Connecticut and had to make numerous trips back home for vendor appointments, but luckily, we were very fortunate to be able to work with some amazing vendors that made the planning so easy and our day so special!
We got married over Memorial Day weekend and had a lot of family and friends traveling from out of town, so we planned an entire weekend for our guests to enjoy in downtown Saratoga (Racing Museum Tours, Golf Outings and a Welcome Reception!) all leading up to the big day on Sunday. Both my husband and I come from large extended families, so our wedding was rather large (232 guests). The ceremony was held in the ballroom at Saratoga National Golf Course and was officiated by Jeff’s uncle and the reception was in the tent downstairs. We wanted to keep the “Saratoga / horse theme” throughout the entire day, so we rented trolleys to shuttle guests to and from the venue, worked with PaperDolls of Saratoga to customize all of the Stationery (Racing Program themed seating chart, programs, invites, and welcome bags!), I even made horse shoes for the table numbers which were all names of famous race horses, and gave each guests lucky horse shoes as favors. I had horseshoes on all my bridesmaids’ flowers and mine for good luck!! Jeff and I have a French Bulldog who we consider our kid and couldn’t have
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DESTINATION: Saratoga Springs
Laura & Mark Allen
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Details
WEDDING DATE June 15, 2018
LOCATION Canfield Casino PHOTOGRAPHER Elario Photography STATIONERY SUITE Minted WEDDING GOWN Cristina's Bridal Andover, MA BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Adrianna Papell GROOM & GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING JoS. A. Bank RINGS N. Fox Jewelers HAIR AND MAKEUP Beauty with Julie FLOWERS Fleurtacious Designs WEDDING PLANNER Fine Affairs CATERER / CAKE Mazzone Hospitality DJ Nonstop Music (DJ Vinny Vin) PHOTOBOOTH Smile Lounge Photobooth FIRST DANCE 'Can't Help Falling In Love' by Haley Reinhart HONEYMOON DESTINATION Riviera Maya, Mexico OFFICIANT Reverend Joy Burke BRIDAL PREP Pavilion Grand Hotel SPECIAL TOUCHES... We rented the carousel in Congress park for additional photos - it was a fun break from all of the formal shots, and the pictures came out so cute! ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... The best decision that we made was to have our own private cocktail hour on the patio while our guests mingled at the bar. We were able to relax, appreciate the moment, and with a personal hors d'ouveres station we didn't have to worry about missing any snacks!
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M
ark and I met during our senior year at Cazenovia College. The first time that he brought me to Saratoga, his hometown, was at the end of our last semester in April of 2011. That summer I attended my first race at the track, experienced my first doughboy at Esperanto's, and tested water from all of the Springs (some leaving a bigger impression than others)! After just one visit I knew that Saratoga was going to have a special place in our lives. Through the next seven years our relationship flourished, despite a period of long distance and many trips up and down I-87. I was living in NYC and working as a children’s fashion designer, while Mark was stationed in Albany, working for NYS Homeland Security. When Mark had the opportunity to relocate downstate in July of 2015, we moved to an apartment in Queens and were finally able to start our life together. In April of 2017, six years after my first romance with Saratoga, Mark brought me back upstate and proposed in Congress Park. With all of our memories there, it only made sense to have the wedding in Saratoga as well. Having always loved the historic charm of the city, we chose the Canfield Casino for our venue, and it was the perfect setting for our big day. The wedding was perfect, and we are so thankful that our family and friends were able to make the trip to Saratoga to celebrate with us!
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DESTINATION: Saratoga Springs
Alynn &Andrew saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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I
t was during Andrew’s last year of residency at University of Alabama Birmingham that we were introduced by a mutual friend. During that first encounter, we exchanged little more than names and brief pleasantries, but little did I know, this would be the beginning of a love story that would further strengthen my belief that everything happens for a reason. A few months after that brief introduction, I was involved in a horrific car accident that would require surgery and months of rehabilitation before I could return to my career as a principal ballerina with the Alabama Ballet. What at first seemed a tragedy, I now view as serendipity because it brought us together. Though I had initially been treated at the same trauma hospital where Andrew worked, he only learned of my accident after I had returned to upstate New York to recover with my family. Nonetheless, he reached out to offer me emotional support and his expertise. We started by discussing my medical concerns but soon grew to talk about all manner of topics and become close friends. By the time I returned to Birmingham, Andrew had completed his residency and moved back home to Louisville, Kentucky, but we decided to give dating a chance despite the long distance. Three and a half years and many, many miles of traveling to see each other later, Andrew finally proposed and I said “yes”. When the time came to plan our wedding, Saratoga Springs seemed the natural choice. I had lived in several other cities but always considered Saratoga Springs to be my home. Most of my family was from the area, and I had visited with Andrew many times throughout our years of dating. We chose to have the ceremony at St. Clement Catholic Church, the same place my parents had been married years before. Congress Park has always been my favorite spot in town, so we were excited to find a date available at the Canfield Casino for our reception. When we toured the Canfield Casino, we could hardly believe how beautiful it was. The opportunity to include private use of the Congress Park Carousel, which my grandmother had helped in the effort to restore, was a fun bonus for us and our guests.
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(and the rest of their team) work with us to create a spectacular and delicious cocktail hour and dinner for the reception. The brilliant team from Fine Affairs helped with decorating and to put it all together and Surroundings Florist made sure the flowers and my bouquet were perfect for our big day.
We wanted to make sure our guests got the full Saratoga experience, so we included blocks of rooms at The Gideon Putnam and The Inn at Saratoga to allow them access to the heart of town. The latter also served as the location for the rehearsal dinner and staging area for my bridesmaids and I prior to the ceremony. Alayne Curtiss, owner of Make Me Fabulous, is a close family friend and served as our hair and makeup artist. She and her team made my bridesmaids and I feel special and look spectacular. I had chosen an ivory satin gown from Ferri’s Formals & Bridal that was everything I’d always imagined a wedding dress to be. To continue the Saratoga spirit, we had a white trolley transport the bridesmaids and I to the ceremony where my father escorted me down the aisle to my loving groom while a string quartet, The Velveteen Ensemble, played an arrangement from my favorite ballet.
beautifully by our photographer Sarah. In addition to Sarah’s photos, Robb Spring Photography also had a photo booth with personalized props I had made just for the occasion. The candid shots and photo booth pictures of our guests (many of whom had been total strangers only a few hours earlier) celebrating together epitomize what made our wedding weekend so special. It truly felt like two families becoming one. Before long, the night was ending and we left to a sparkler sendoff in my father’s classic 1965 Shelby Cobra for our first night as husband and wife at the glamorous Pavilion Grand Hotel.
The next morning we arose early for one last touch of Saratoga Springs; a post-wedding breakfast with our guests at the racetrack. Sharing stories of that weekend as racehorses galloped by was the perfect way to punctuate our dream destination wedding and begin the rest of our life together. I’d say the rest has all been smooth sailing and a happily ever after, but the truth is thirty-six hours later, instead of packing for our honeymoon, I was back in the hospital for an appendectomy... but that’s a story for another time. Thank you to our parents, the rest of our families, our friends, and to all our vendors for making our wedding everything we ever could have dreamed for it to be.
After the ceremony, we took a moment to recreate a photograph by the grotto just like my parents had taken on their wedding day. As the trolley transported our wedding party and other guests over to Congress Park, the party began. The drive around my favorite city with my new husband and closest family and friends was unforgettable. The bridal party even celebrated with a toast of Pappy Van Winkle bourbon to celebrate Andrew’s Kentucky roots before joining our other guests at the carousel. Following a few spins on the carousel, we had another photo session with the talented Sarah Wigley Collins of Rob Spring Photography. We then took a moment together to visit the memorial brick dedicated to my grandfather in Congress Park and left a single rose alongside it before joining the party inside the Canfield Casino. The setting was spectacular, the food delicious, the music of The Silver Arrow Band kept our guests dancing the night away, and the whole event was captured
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DESTINATION: Saratoga Springs
Danielle &Mathew Decker saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Details WEDDING DATE September 15, 2018
CEREMONY Outside Patio at The Gideon Putnam Hotel RECEPTION The Arches for cocktail hour, Ballroom for reception PHOTOGRAPHER Susan Blackburn Photography VIDEOGRAPHER Mike Verenini at LoveCraft Productions STATIONERY SUITE PaperDolls of Saratoga WEDDING GOWN Something Bleu Bridal BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES David’s Bridal RINGS Zales GROOM & GROOMSMENS' TUXEDOS Choppa & Son Formal Wear HAIR & MAKEUP Lipstick N Lashes, Ballston Spa FLOWERS Posie Peddler CATERER The Gideon Putnam CAKE The Bread Basket Bakery DJ DJ Mike Napoli, Sound Formula Entertainment RECEPTION RENTALS Total Events PHOTOBOOTH Sound Formula Entertainment FIRST DANCE 'How Would You Feel' by Ed Sheernan HONEYMOON DESTINATION Croatia ADVICE TO PASS ALONG Don’t go crazy, stay calm and enjoy your day.
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M
athew and I met at a mutual friend’s house for a BBQ where we hit it off (immediately!) and 2 weeks later started dating. I found him interesting, coming from St Louis, MO and he found me just as interesting, coming from Long Island NY. Totally different cultures. I had recently bought a house in Corning that I planned to fix up over time in order to flip or rent in the future. As it turned out, Mathew had his own construction company and, with my budget being tight, he volunteered to help me fix my house. I was prepared to do some cosmetics, but once he got involved, he taught me I needed to start from the ground up in order to build a strong foundation. I became his apprentice and from demolition to excavating to replacing walls and flooring, windows and even outside cedar shakes (he did the electric and plumbing, but I tried to help) we have now almost completed what has become our total fixerupper. I never thought I would enjoy fishing and hunting and he didn’t think he would enjoy hiking as much as I did, but we’ve had quite a few fun adventures taking time out from this renovation to enjoy ourselves.
on the hotel patio on a gorgeous day surrounded by the love of friends and family. It was truly magical. As we slowly renovated my house (which we decided to make our first home!), I knew we were meant to be. I learned something important from Mathew. You must build a strong foundation in order to withstand any adverse surprises that might occur in the future. All the cosmetics and extras that make it special and beautiful on the surface are the icing on the cake. We’ve
worked hard through sweat and tears building and renovating our home together and I’d like to think it also represents how strong our foundation is in our own relationship. We’ve been told in the past that anyone who works on their home with their spouse knows it’s a test in their marriage. We survived nail by nail, inch by inch, the rest is icing on the cake.
Mathew proposed to me at sunset on a beach in the Outer Banks of NC on 5/10/17. We decided to get married in September in the Saratoga Springs area where my parents had recently moved prior to their retirement. I had been in love with Saratoga for so many years having visited other family members who had been living there for years. The State Park and history of the Gideon Putnam Hotel made it an ideal venue as it would be a destination wedding for 85 percent of our friends and family. We were married outside saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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FLOWER GIRLS &
RING BEARERS
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Left page: Top photo: Rob Spring Photography see page 108 Bottom left: Susan Blackburn Photography Bottom right: Sarah Wigley Collins at Rob Spring Photography see page 55 Right page: Top left: Sarah Wigley Collins at Rob Spring Photography see page 152 Top right: Susan Blackburn Photography see page 68 Middle left: Susan Blackburn Photography Middle right: Sarah Wigley Collins at Rob Spring Photography see page 152 Bottomleft: Danni LaRaia see page 172 Bottom right: Meaghan Aldridge see page 168
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Styling a
MODERN ELOPEMENT
LOCATION: Glynwood Farms DRESS SHOP: Lily Saratoga FLORIST: Samantha Nass Floral Design PHOTOGRAPHY: Nicole Nero Studio PLANNER / PRODUCER: Lauren Pasternak Events OFFICIANT: Michele Zipp saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley is Glynwood Farms, 225 acres of picturesque landscape full of rolling green hills, lush vegetation grown for the benefit of the community, and the historic Main House where our shoot took place. This stone structure is the definition of country elegance. Its walls are strung up with flowering vines and rhododendron bushes that burst with magenta blooms during the summer months. Emerald green shutters and sandy brown stone created the perfect backdrop for our locally sourced elopement style shoot, coordinated by Lauren Pasternak of Lauren Pasternak events. Michaela Hindes, “Mikey” for short, brought Lily Saratoga’s “Moxie” gown by Modern Trousseau to life in an effortlessly cool way. This couture design house is based in Connecticut and stands out among larger bridal designers through their use of French and Italian silks and laces.
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“Moxie” combines romantic and modern with its sheer Chantilly Lace high neckline backed by a solid deep-V bodice and an open back. The distinct lace waistline creates beautiful shape through the waist and hip and leads perfectly into the sheath style skirt. To complete the look, Samantha Nass Floral Design created a highly textural bouquet of quintessentially romantic roses and mixed folage, eucalyptus pods and French anemones. For post-ceremony, Mikey wore stacking floral cuffs - a playful spin on traditional corsages. These floral accessories are a great way to wear flowers for the rest of the day! Our male model, James, complimented Mikey in his classic black suit. His coordinating and textural boutonnière finished off his dapper look.
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Bohemian Vibes
GOWNS & ACCESSORIES: Lily Saratoga FLOWERS: Suzanne Balet Haight, Balet Flowers & Design HAIR & MAKEUP: Carina Scott Makeup PHOTOGRAPHY: Susan Blackburn Photography
This fun, flirty, laid-back bride wears an Essense of Australia off the shoulder drop-waist blush and ivory lace appliqued ball gown that lengthens the torso. The rose gold earrings add a touch of sparkle, while the sweetheart neckline frames the face.
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A silver and pearl jeweled floral headpiece and pearl drop earrings complement the illusion lace and deep V-shaped neckline of this Essense of Australia A-line dress that features lace applique detailing continuing down the length of the tulle skirt.
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Each flower stands out in a countryside-casual clutch bouquet made of ‘Rocket White’ snapdragons, ‘Amazon Purple’ dianthus, Bells of Ireland greenery, ‘Grosso’ and ‘Hidcote’ lavender adorned with sprigs of asparagus ferns.
The relaxed, romantic boho beautiful bridesmaid wears a halo of soft pink silk flowers by Chocolette in her sun-kissed hair. The ruching and halter strap on this violet Amsale chiffon dress effortlessly flatters a larger bust.
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Long, loose golden waves cascade over a dreamy chiffon Sorella Vita off the shoulder evening mist colored gown. A spicy, smoky eye provides contrast while complementing the late day sunset.
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Flower girl Charlotte Scott runs between the garden rows wearing a crown of lavender in her finger-curled hair and a printed tulle dress by Jenny Yoo.
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The dusty lavender strapless Sorella Vita A-line bridesmaid dress supports a plus-sized figure with bodice pleating, a naturally cinched waistline and a flowing full-length skirt. Simple chic is achieved with pearl drop earrings and a rosy eye.
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Flowing Vintage Rose chiffon and satin inspire lots of movement in this circle-cut skirt. Add intensity with a crystal headpiece and earrings on a carefree burnt orange and super nude makeup palette.
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Enchanting Days... SOMETHING BLEU BRIDAL PRESENTS:
D R A M AT I C N I G H T S
Embrace the unexpected in your Upstate Spring wedding, daring to pair delicate, early blooms with snowy outdoor scenes and a romantic, whimsical dress. SEE THE "BEHIND THE SCENES" DETAILS ON PAGE 83. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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DRESS: Malala by Elisabetta Polignano HAIR/MAKEUP: Alayne Curtis, Make Me Fabulous VEIL: Marie Hunt of Headpiece.com
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FLOWERS: Rena’s Fine Flowers
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Soft hues and flowing fabrics mimic the transition of the seasons from winter’s stark light and lines to the sinuous paths of spring brooks and peeks of color through the snow.
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FLOWERS: Rena’s Fine Flowers
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DRESS: Michigan by Elisabetta Polignano HAIR PIECES: TiAdoro Jewelry EARRINGS: Malis Henderson
Randall Perry Photography
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DRESS: Bianca by Lea-Ann Belter FLOWERS, MANTLE, TABLE AND CHANDELIER: Rena’s Fine Flowers VEIL: Marie Hunt of Headpiece.com HEADPIECES: Marie Hunt of Headpiece.com JEWELRY: Malis Henderson SHOES: Ted Baker London STATIONERY/MENU: Maddie Goodnuff of Sugarhouse Stationery TABLE SETTING: Rain or Shine (table, chairs, glassware), Marissa Mackay’s heirloom china, Rena’s Fine Flowers, Meringue mushrooms by Mrs. London’s Bakery. LANTERNS: Rain or Shine DOG: Gretchen (Cailen and Tara’s Weimaraner rescue, who spends her days at the course) TARTAN: Mackay Ancient from LoullyMakes SCOTCH GLASS: ScotchWhiskyGlass with Mackay Crest DECANTER TOGA Heritage
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Drama and glamour are not the sole province of winter weddings. In the early spring, bring the vivacity of new life inside with bright greens, classic whites, and touches of blue or purple as the perfect foil for your luscious, silk taffeta ball gown.
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Behind the Scence at the Something Bleu Bridal Shoot.. TRACEY BUYCE PHOTOGRAPHY AT SARATOGA LAKE GOLF CLUB AND SARATOGA SPA STATE PARK
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GROOMS AND GROOMSMEN
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Left page: Top left: GROOM: Charles Hoertkorn TUXEDO: Mr. Formal Wear PHOTO: Rob Spring Photography see page 180 Top right: GROOM: Christopher Manning TUXEDO: Tuxego PHOTO: Danni LaRaia see page 172 Bottom: GROOM: Angel Pagán TUXEDO: Vittorio Menswear PHOTO: Alexandra Meseke Photography see page 112 Right page: Top left: GROOM: Stephen Miller SUIT: Tuxego PHOTO: Andrew Franciosa see page 140 Top right: GROOM: Tom Mahar TUXEDO: JoS.A.Bank PHOTO: Niki Rossi see page 176 Middle left: GROOM: Anthony Potter SUIT: Bonobos PHOTO: Tracey Buyce see page 100 Middle right: GROOM: Christopher Blanchette TUXEDO: Men's Wearhouse PHOTO: Dave Bigler Photos and Flims see page 88 Bottomleft: GROOM: Ben Cummings SUIT: Men's Wearhouse PHOTO: Rob Spring Photography see page 108 Bottom right: GROOM: Adam Favro SUIT: Custom suit by Chris Garabedian PHOTO: Heather Bohm-Talllman see page 98
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Real Brides
and our love stories...
photo by Tracey Buyce, see page 126 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Alyse & Chris A m a n d a & Lu c a s Amy & Brad A m y & Ky l e Brittani & Charles Brooke & Brian Elizabeth & Conor Elizabeth & Steve Ka r i a n n & A n t h o n y Ka t i e & J a k e Kira & Adam Kristen & Joshua Ke l l i & C h a r l e s Ky l e e & B e n M a g g i e & To m Marissa Phillip Marissa & Stephen Meghan & Sean Meredith & Christopher Michaela & Alex Rebecca & Jeremy Shanna & Angel Sophia & Edwardo Stephanie & Matthew Sydney & Chris SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  87
North Greenbush
Alyse & Chris Blanchette
wedding gown THE WEDDING SALON OF MANHASSET location HALL OF SPRINGS photographed by DAVE BIGLER PHOTOS AND FILM
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Our Story
C
hris and I met at Lionheart Pub in Albany through mutual friends. I had been a medical student at Albany Medical College, and after graduation, I moved to Long Island to complete my residency. Chris was born and raised in Albany. He contacted me a few years after we met, while I was a busy intern working through residency. I tried to explain to him that a relationship would be too difficult due to the long distance between Albany and Long Island. However, he was persistent and he was always confident that I was the only one for him. He started visiting me during the weekends and after that, we spent almost every day together since. Chris moved to Long Island for me and we lived in a small apartment together until I finished my residency and fellowship. He proposed to me in the Summer of 2016. He surprised me with a visit to New York City and we visited my brother and brother-in-law at their apartment. When we arrived to the rooftop of their high rise apartment building, a string trio was waiting for us and playing "All of Me" by John Legend. He got down on one knee and proposed in front of my best friends (who he flew in from Michigan to be there for the day). While planning for the wedding, we knew how incredible the Hall of Springs was because I had many school events there during medical school. Chris even went to a prom there. We knew immediately that is where we wanted to get married. We both love Saratoga, especially in the Spring and Summer months. All of our vendors and the entire Hall of Springs staff were absolutely incredible! After the wedding and fellowship graduation, I accepted a job at Albany Medical Center and we built our dream home near Albany. We now live there with our kitty, and we just got a new puppy!
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Details
WEDDING DATE April 8, 2017 LOCATION Hall of Springs PHOTOGRAPHER / VIDEOGRAPHER Dave Bigler Photos and Film WEDDING GOWN The Wedding Salon of Manhasset BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Azazie RINGS Jewelry Gallery of Oyster Bay GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Men's Wearhouse HAIR / MAKEUP Christopher Brian Salon FLOWERS Renaissance Floral Design CAKE / CATERER Mazzone Hospitality BAND / DJ Metropolitan Players PHOTOBOOTH Dave Bigler Photos and Film FIRST DANCE 'Stand By Me' by Ben E. King RENTALS - Total Events LLC HONEYMOON DESTINATION Maui, Hawaii SPECIAL TOUCHES... My brother and his husband were in my wedding party. My brother was my "man of honor". Each guest got a welcome bag - with special treats from Saratoga (Saratoga chips, Saratoga water bottles, etc). My brother in law was my "bridesman". ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Stop for a few minutes during the wedding with your partner and just soak in the moment. Look around during the night and take mental notes - to help keep memories forever.
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Felton, Delaware
Stephanie & Matthew Moyer
wedding gown LILY SARATOGA location SARATOGA NATIONAL GOLF CLUB photographed by DAVE BIGLER PHOTOS AND FILMS
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Our Story
M
att and I first met while I was working at a liquor store in Ballston Spa. He came into the store, owned by his aunt and uncle, while he was on spring break and I was at the register. It wasn’t until a few months later when he started working at the store that we became friends. After graduating from graduate school, I was offered an amazing opportunity to work for a company in Maryland. We moved to Delaware with our pup, Cleo! Seven months later, we adopted our second pup, Cash! After a little over two years of dating, he proposed in our living room, with the pups as witnesses! Even though we lived in Delaware, we wanted to have our wedding in Saratoga Springs, since that’s where we considered “home” for so many years. After looking for the perfect venue, we came across Saratoga National Golf Club. We set up an appointment to see the venue, and absolutely fell in love with it! We knew immediately that SNGC is where we wanted to get married, and we didn’t look at any other venues. Our wedding day was the best day of our lives. Everything was absolutely beautiful, and all of our vendors worked so hard to make everything perfect. We are both so appreciative for all the work our vendors put into our wedding. We are so happy to have spent our day surrounded with family, friends, and love.
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Details
WEDDING DATE April 28, 2018 LOCATION Saratoga National Golf Club PHOTOGRAPHER / VIDEOGRAPHER Dave Bigler Photos and Films WEDDING GOWN Lily Saratoga BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES David's Bridal GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Choppa & Son RINGS deJonghe Original Jewelry HAIR / MAKEUP True Beauty Company FLOWERS Balet Flowers & Design CATERER / CAKE Mazzone Hospitality DJ Love of Music PHOTOBOOTH Smile Lounge Interactive TRANSPORTATION All Occassions Limo / Royale Limousine FIRST DANCE 'Perfect' by Ed Sheeran HONEYMOON DESTINATION Antigua SEAMSTRESS WillFitUin
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Kira & Adam Saratoga Favro Springs
wedding gown BHLDN.COM location CAFFE LENA photographed by HEATHER BOHM-TALLMAN
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Our Story
K
ira and Adam crossed paths at community events in Saratoga. Their first date was over a mint Julep at Hattie’s followed by a stroll through Congress park where they learned of their mutual love for horses, music, and the value of family. On a trip to Kira’s home state of California, Adam proposed to her on the beach in Malibu where Kira spent her childhood playing in the sand. The ring was custom made by deJonghe Custom Jewelry and was a perfect reflection of Kira and Adam. The couple wanted their wedding day to be unique and a reflection of their relationship. Kira serves on the board of directors at Caffe Lena. The newly renovated space was the perfect backdrop. The two got married in Congress Park with a ceremony officiated by Adam’s dad and attended only by immediate family. The reception included food from Hattie’s (including mint juleps), music from Hot Club of Saratoga and the North and South Dakotas, and a live stream of the Kentucky Derby in which the winning horse would go on to win the Triple Crown. Saratoga Springs has as certain magic but this day would not have been possible without the amazing vendors, our family, and help from our amazing wedding planner Tonya.
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Details
WEDDING DATE May 5, 2018 LOCATION Cafe Lena CEREMONY LOCATION Congress Park PHOTOGRAPHER Heather Bohm-Tallman STATIONERY SUITE PaperDolls of Saratoga EVENT DECORATOR Rain or Shine WEDDING GOWN BHLDN.com RINGS deJonghe Custom Jewelry TUXEDO Custom Suit from Chris Garabedian HAIR & MAKEUP Make Me Fabulous FLOWERS Posie Peddler WEDDING PLANNER Tonya Pellegrini, Pellegrini Events CATERER Hattie's CAKE Bread Basket Bakery BAND Hot Club of Saratoga & North and South Dakotas FIRST DANCE 'California Stars' by Billie Brag & Wilco played live by N&S Dakotas RENTALS - Total Events LLC HONEYMOON DESTINATION New Orleans ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Hire a wedding planner so you can enjoy each other!
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New York City
Keriann &Anthony Potter
wedding gown KLEINFELD location HALL OF SPRINGS photographed by TRACEY BUYCE
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Our Story
I
n the winter of 2011, Anthony and I were both college athletes at Columbia University. Through mutual acquaintances and “chance” run-ins (perhaps more orchestrated by Anthony than I realized at the time!), we became fast friends. Friendship turned to flirtation over a ski trip in Saratoga Springs, and shortly after, we began to date. Only a few months later, I was accepted and chose to go to medical school in Worcester, MA while Anthony stayed to graduate a year later and pursue a career in finance in New York. The next four years held countless bus trips, train rides, and hours spent sitting in traffic between Worcester and NYC. Saratoga Springs quickly became our happy meeting place where we could spend longanticipated weekends together at Anthony’s family home. After medical school, I moved back to NYC to begin my residency in pediatrics and we moved into our apartment on the Upper West Side. In December 2016, I begrudgingly accepted that despite six years of dating, we would spend the holidays separately. I did not know that Anthony had much bigger and more exciting plans. Two days before Christmas, he showed up on my parent’s front doorstep on one knee. We immediately knew we wanted to marry in Saratoga and a week later our date was set. The first Saturday in May proved to be a perfect day! Our wedding day was filled with so many wonderful people and so much love – we wouldn’t change a thing!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 101
102 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Details WEDDING DATE May 5, 2018 LOCATION Hall of Springs PHOTOGRAPHER Tracey Buyce STATIONERY SUITE WhoDrew WEDDING GOWN Kleinfeld RINGS Hers - custom, His - Marisa Perry Atelier GROOM'S CLOTHING Bonobos GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Ties by Saratoga National, men wore own suits HAIR & MAKEUP Make Me Fabulous FLOWERS Reniassance CATERER & CAKE Mazzone Hospitality TRANSPORTAION Advantage Transportation Group, Trolleys BAND Metropolitan Players FIRST DANCE 'Offering' by Avett Brothers AV EQUIPMENT FOR DERBY VIEWING High Peaks Rentals HONEYMOON DESTINATION Mayakoba, Mexico SPECIAL TOUCHES... We showed the Kentucky Derby during cocktail hour, favors were bets on the race and there were passed mini mint juleps prior to post time. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Don't stress about making it around to all of the tables, let your guests find you on the dance floor!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  103
Saratoga Lake
Sophia & Eduardo Guevara
wedding gown ANNE GREGORY FOR THE BRIDE location CANFIELD CASINO photographed by MATT RAMOS
104 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Our Story
S
ophia had attempted many ways to find Mr. Right.
With much encouragement, she signed up for a new online dating site; Zoosk. Not giving it much thought, she later went to Key West on vacation. After a few libations, she opened the application and began swiping right (which winked at a suitor). Upon her return to Saratoga, she noticed a man wearing a pink shirt had responded with, “Is there something in your eye?” His name was Eduardo and within three days, their first date was planned at the Wine Bar in Saratoga. After a four-hour date and a perfect first kiss, they were both floating on air. After a short courtship, Eduardo wanted to surprise Sophia with a proposal at her Lake House. As he got down on one knee, Sophia screamed with delight and cried tears of joy as Eduardo stated that she was the love of his life and wanted to marry her. Sophia and Eduardo felt Saratoga Springs was the picture-perfect location for a wedding. After all, Saratoga was where they fell in love. To highlight this, their first look was at The Wine Bar. The Historic Canfield Casino was perfection for both ceremony and reception: Nessun Dorma was sung as Sophia walked down the aisle in memory of her father, Eduardo’s brother-in-law performed the ceremony, Mariachis during cocktail hour, and Happy Meals delivered on the dance floor. Unforgettable moments with the most notable being the love, radiating from family and friends on this incredible day.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 105
106 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Details
WEDDING DATE May 19, 2018 LOCATION Canfield Casino PHOTOGRAPHER Matt Ramos VIDEOGRAPHER Lovecraft Productions STATIONERY SUITE Springfield Printing WEDDING GOWN Anne Gregory For The Bride BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES BHLDN.com GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Jonathan Reid EVENT DECORATOR Total Events RINGS Chain Connection/NYC HAIR Krissy Nelligan & Chloe Vickery, Robin Miller & Colleen Hodgkiss MAKEUP Flawless Obsession FLOWERS Samantha Nass Floral Design WEDDING PLANNER Tonya Pellegrini, Pellegrini Events CATERER / CAKE Mazzone Hospitality BAND Phase One PHOTOBOOTH Matt Ramos TRANSPORTATION Premiere Limo FIRST DANCE 'Future Days' by Pearl Jam HONEYMOON DESTINATION Hawaii LATE NIGHT FOOD McDonalds/Pies on Wheels SPECIAL TOUCHES... We had an opera singer Vicktor Starsky sing Nessun Dorma as I walked down the aisle in memory of my father. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... From the moment you wake up, be mindful of the moment and the people surrounding you, as it will be hard to come down from the cloud you are on. Be with your partner and remember the pure joy and love you feel for each other in that moment. Oh and please eat something and dance a lot!!!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  107
Clifton Park
Kylee & Ben Cummings
wedding gown BRIDAL BY YVONNE location THE BOAT HOUSE RESTAURANT photographed by ROB SPRING PHOTOGRAPHY
108 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
P
rior to my husband and I meeting, we both lived in Clifton Park and graduated from the same high school with him graduating one year ahead of me. It was not until February of 2011 that we met for the first time. I was a college student working as a banquet server, and he was a guest attending his firehouse's yearly awards ceremony. I approached him with a huge smile and a tray of bacon wrapped scallops not knowing that he hated seafood. After our second date we knew we weren’t going to live without each other. We moved in together after a year and a half into a small, old apartment since I had just started nursing school and he was the only one with a steady paycheck. We adopted our first pair of fur babies, a black and an orange cat named Revis and Simba. After I graduated nursing school we bought a beautiful home in Clifton park where we adopted two more fur babies, Thumper and Lucca, who are both long-haired German Shepherds. Every year we've been together we vacationed in Cape Cod, so the area is very meaningful to us. My husband proposed to me in Cape Cod on August 18, 2015. We set our wedding date for May 20, 2017 in Lake George since we did not want our guests traveling all the way to Cape Cod. It was the most magical day of our lives. Everything was perfect. Flash forward a year later to May 3, 2018 - I gave birth to our first son Landon. We are so in love with our family and are excited to see what the future holds for us.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  109
110 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Details
WEDDING DATE May 20, 2018 LOCATION The Boathouse Restaurant, Lake George PHOTOGRAPHER Rob Spring Photography VIDEOGRAPHER Mitchell Wood STATIONERY SUITE The Lodges at Cresthaven WEDDING GOWN AND BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Bridal by Yvonne GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Mens Wearhouse RINGS Hannoush Jewelers EVENT DECORATOR Stephanie Bryans & Blooms HAIR AND MAKEUP Beauty by Briana Lampman FLOWERS Blooms, Greenwich WEDDING PLANNER Stephanie Bryans CAKE Villa Italia DJ DJ Mike Reilly FIRST DANCE 'It's Your Love' by Tim Mcgraw & Faith Hill HONEYMOON DESTINATION Vidanta Resorts, Riveria Maya, Mexico DINNER REHEARSAL The Sagamore DINNER REHEARSAL GOWN Bridal by Yvonne SPECIAL TOUCHES... As someone who deals with anxiety Stephaine Bryans our wedding planner made the whole wedding process feel like a breeze. She was constantly keeping me updated with information from our vendors and came with us to all our meetings. She was there for me during my shower making sure everything was perfect,and coached the bridal party during the rehearsal. On the day of the wedding she started her day at 8am making sure all the vendors were there at the appropriate times and worked with the venue and florist to decorate the ceremony and reception beautifully. I would also like to mention that Mike Reilly and Rob Spring were by far our favorite to work with. They are so professional and made us feel like family to them. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... If you want Rob Spring as your photographer or Mike Reilly as your DJ book them as soon as possible! As the bride turn your cell phone off on your wedding day and make one of your bridesmaids the one to connect with any issues or questions.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 111
Rochester
Shanna & Angel Pagán
wedding gown SILK BRIDAL, ROCHESTER location HALL OF SPRINGS photographed by ALEXANDRA MESEKE PHOTOGRAPHY
112 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
A
ngel and I met in fourth grade…yes, really! We went to school for years together. Then, one day in 10th grade he caught my eye when he was wearing my lucky number on his football jersey! Naturally, I was the captain of the cheerleading team...quite the cliché, I know! The rest is truly HISTORY! Twelve years later, on a perfect day in May, I was greeted with the sweetest smile from my boyfriend holding a beautiful bouquet of flowers. He started to say the most magical things that I had ever heard and then *BOOM* he was down on one knee holding the ring of my DREAMS! I was absolutely speechless and in utter shock that I nearly fell to the floor. After I said “YES!” and gathered myself together, Angel took me to a romantic brunch. When he opened the door to the restaurant, to my absolute surprise was my ENTIRE family, his ENTIRE family and all my best friends (some even on facetime!). Angel had organized this beautiful gathering with all the people we love! It was truly a magical day! After much research in the Capital Region, we found the Hall of Springs. As soon as I stepped foot inside, I felt as though I had walked into a ballroom fit for a fairytale! It was grand, glamorous and had the Old Hollywood Charm that we love so much! From the moment we began communications with the staff at the Hall of Springs I knew I had made the right decision. They made me feel welcome and so incredibly special! On the day of the wedding, the entire staff truly went above and beyond. My favorite moment was standing in the center of the ballroom singing "At Last" to my husband who was completely and utterly shocked! It was a special moment where we were totally focused on each other. Our wedding was spectacular thanks to all our incredible vendors! Angel and I are forever grateful to each of them for making the first day of our life together perfect! We look forward to spending our first anniversary in Saratoga to relive the magic!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 113
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114 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Details
WEDDING DATE May 26, 2018 LOCATION Hall of Springs PHOTOGRAPHER Alexandra Meseke Photography WEDDING GOWN Silk Bridal, Rochester STATIONERY SUITE Courtney Davidson, Gold & Italic EVENT DECORATOR Total Events, Megan Barkevich BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Adrianna Papell and various other designers GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' TUXEDOS Vittorio Menswear RINGS Private Jeweler WEDDING PLANNER Meg Bell, Hall of Springs HAIR Julie Potter Master Stylist MAKEUP Amanda Pierce Makeup FLOWERS Farmhouse Floral Design, Jess Beretz DJ Fernando Bustamente, Piano Man DJ Productions CATERER & CAKE Mazzone Hospitality TRANSPORTATION Exclusive Chauffeur HONEYMOON DESTINATION Amalfi Coast, Italy HARPIST FOR CEREMONY Leah Kidwell-Fernandes, Upstate Harpist TABLE NUMBERS Tiny Ruby Designs, each were an Old Hollywood song name SPECIAL TOUCHES... I surprised my husband by singing "At Last" to him right after our first dance! There is a photo of me standing in the center of the ballroom singing to my husband that I truly cherish! Also, my best friend, Meredith Doyle, is a professional Opera singer and sang during our reception! Guests were absolutely speechless! ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Make sure that every detail you decide on dazzles you! Also, be sure to hire professionals that you feel you can trust and that fully understand your vision! Choose a caterer that as an eclectic menu like Mazzone Hospitality! We were able to customize our menu to our unique tastes and to the theme of the wedding.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 115
Sarartoga Springs
Katie &Jake Helmer
wedding gown LILY SARATOGA location THE MANSION INN photographed by TRICIA McCORMACK PHOTOGRAPHY
116 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
J
ake and I met as all modern-day fairy tales begin – on a dating app. I had moved to New York 2 days prior to attend graduate school, and I had no intentions of calling New York my forever home, let alone meeting the love of my life. But on our first date, the next night in downtown Saratoga, I had this overwhelming sense of being home. This was it, this was my person. At first glance, Jake and I appear to be a bit of a mismatched set. He is 6’9”, I am 5’3”. He is the life and light in any room he enters, usually the center of attention, and I met him at a time when I was clouded with self-doubt. But more than anything, we are balance. We are a team. I keep him grounded, and he keeps me wild (and reaches all the stuff on the top shelf). Our wedding day was much like our life, full of love, laughter, and cheeseburgers. We dreamt of a wedding day surrounded by our favorite people, in the place that we fell in love, and The Mansion Inn provided just that. From the commitment ice cream sundae we shared during our ceremony while our nieces and nephew ran around us, to the signs that adorned each table, our day was a perfect representation of us, and the life and love that we share.
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 117
118 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Details
WEDDING DATE May 27, 2018 LOCATION The Mansion Inn PHOTOGRAPHER Tricia McCormack Photography STATIONERY SUITE Tom March Designs WEDDING GOWN Lily Saratoga BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES David's Bridal GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Tuxego RINGS Kay Jewelers HAIR Revive Hair & Skin MAKEUP Carina Scott Makeup FLOWERS Debbie Ball CATERER The Mansion Inn CAKE Karen Hemler DJ Bob Heck Entertainment PHOTOBOOTH Bob Heck Entertainment TRANSPORTATION Uber FIRST DANCE 'Let It Be Me' by Ray Lamontagne HONEYMOON DESTINATION Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, and Ireland TABLE SIGNS AND CORNHOLE BOARD GUEST BOOK Saratoga Hardwood SPECIAL TOUCHES... Our ceremony was short and sweet but did include an ice cream sundae commitment ceremony. Rather than candles or sand, we built an ice cream sundae together from our favorite flavors and toppings, and then played rock paper scissors to decide who would get to eat the first bite. After it was done, Jake accidentally knocked the table and the bowl smashed on the floor. Oops! Our reception included all of our favorite foods, including a slider station with a french fry bar, taco station, and carving station with mashed potato bar. Our tables were named after different streets in Saratoga, bringing in a special touch of the city we love so much. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... You can't think of your wedding day as a big production or show where things could go wrong. It is just a gathering of all of your favorite people that are all there to enjoy the moment with YOU. The day will go exactly as it is supposed to. Rain happens (it did on our day), kids will be crazy (they ran all around us during the ceremony), and you may even knock your commitment ice cream sundae on the ground. And that is what will make it the best day ever, not having it follow some perfect plan.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 119
Porter Corners
Kristen &Joshua Powers
wedding gown ANGELA'S BRIDAL location SARATOGA NATIONAL GOLF COURSE photographed by KATHERINE WRIGHT-YTK PHOTOGRAPHY
120 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
J
osh and I met in 2012 about a week before Christmas. We are both from Saratoga but never ran into one another. He moved out to Colorado for most of his 20s and had moved back just a couple of months before we met. On that night he was out with a group of friends in downtown Saratoga and I was at a Christmas party with a younger sibling of one of his friends. My Christmas party ended up moving downtown and we were introduced at Dango's. We went on our first date two days after Christmas and have been together ever since. After dating for a little over 3 years, Josh and I went to Aruba for a friend's wedding and extended our trip for our own vacation. On our last night in Aruba we had dinner at a very romantic restaurant. While we were sitting along the shore with our toes in the sand, watching the sunset over the ocean, he proposed, I couldn't have asked for a more perfect proposal because he knows how I love the beach and this vacation was and will always be my most favorite. That summer we booked our wedding at Saratoga National Golf Club for June 8, 2018. We picked Saratoga National because we wanted to use every part of the beautiful grounds that we could. We had our ceremony in the tent, our cocktail hour on the veranda, and the reception upstairs in the ballroom. I started booking the rest of our vendors after that and thanked my lucky stars every day that we had a two year engagement. It allowed us to book all of the vendors we wanted and gave us plenty of time to save up for our big day. Everything about our wedding was magical and every detail was exactly as I imagined. We could not have asked for a better day to celebrate our love for one another!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  121
122 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Details
WEDDING DATE June 8, 2018 LOCATION Saratoga National Golf Club PHOTOGRAPHER Katherine Wright-YTK Photography STATIONERY SUITE Brittany Reo WEDDING GOWN AND BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Angela's Bridal GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Jos. A Banks RINGS Kay Jewelers EVENT DECORATOR Saratoga National Golf Course HAIR Julie Potter MAKEUP Amanda Pierce FLOWERS North Country Flowers, MaryAnn WEDDING PLANNER Lauren Holmes-Saratoga National Golf Course CAKE / CATERER Saratoga National Golf Course DJ DJ Vinny Vin TRANSPORTATION Charlton Limo FIRST DANCE 'Crazy Love' by Van Morrison HONEYMOON DESTINATION Outerbanks, NC BRIDAL SUITE AND GUEST ROOMS Hampton Inn and Suites, Saratoga Springs SPECIAL TOUCHES... We had two special readings during the ceremony; "How do I love thee" by Elizabeth Barret Browning & "The Promise" by Heather Barry. During our "first look" in the ballroom before our reception, the Dj played our first dance song. His and her cocktails were classic favorites of ours; his a Manhattan and hers a Cosmopolitan. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... On the morning of your wedding take a minute or two for yourself. I went to the gym and it helped me relax and clear my head! Schedule a few "pauses" alone with your new husband to breathe, kiss, and enjoy the moment and the night together!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  123
Ithaca
Rebecca &JeremyMenard
Charlotte
wedding gown LILY SARATOGA location BURLAP AND BEAMS photographed by JUAN SOLER OF DAVE BIGLER PHOTOS AND FILMS
124 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
A
short and simple message from Jeremy to Becca on an online dating site brought them together for the first time. It read, "Hey, I must say, you have great taste in movies. The Goonies is one of my all-time favorites as well." Date number one was at a wine bar in Ithaca, a small city located in New York's Finger Lakes region. The evening flowed through conversations about their shared love for the 1980's cult classic movie, live music, craft beer, sports and the great outdoors. They also quickly learned of their family ties to Ithaca. In fact, Becca's maternal grandparents met as students at Cornell University and were engaged in Ithaca in the 1940's! Nearly eight decades later, Becca said yes to Jeremy's big question less than a mile from where her grandmother responded the same way, to the same question. Jeremy moved to Ithaca to pursue a career in radio and Becca attended Ithaca College to play soccer and study Physical Therapy. While they both currently call Ithaca home, they both agree that they feel most at home up in the Adirondacks. The mountains and lakes are a shared getaway destination for Jeremy and Becca, a spot where they retreated to as kids with their families. Jeremy's family has a camp in Bolton Landing near Lake George, while Becca's relatives operate the general store on Canada Lake. A rustic barn wedding venue cradled by the Adirondack Mountains near Lake George was the easy choice for the couple.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  125
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126 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Details
WEDDING DATE June 23, 2018 LOCATION Burlap and Beams, Athol PHOTOGRAPHER Juan Soler of Dave Bigler Photos and Films WEDDING GOWN Lily Saratoga BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES David's Bridal GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING JC Penny RINGS Mansour Jewelers, Ithaca WEDDING PLANNER Mary Jacobs Weddings and Events HAIR Corinne from Epiphany North Hair Design, Glens Falls MAKEUP Samantha Sennett FLOWERS Dehn's Flowers and Gifts CATERER & CAKE The Ugly Rooster Catering DJ DJ Shawn Gillie TRANSPORTATION North Country Tours (Shuttle for Guests) FIRST DANCE 'Crazy Love' by Van Morrison HONEYMOON DESTINATION St. Lucia SPECIAL TOUCHES... Many of the decorations included at our wedding were created by friends and family members, including photo frame centerpieces with antique postcards of Adirondack Lakes and refinished antique canoe paddles for guests to sign. Other decorations were supplied by Burlap and Beams. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... A lot of time, energy and planning goes into creating one's perfect wedding day. Always remember to take a deep breath, enjoy the moment and keep in mind that it will all work out. Also, make a binder to keep all of your vendor contracts organized and easily accessible.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  127
Ballston Spa
Brooke &Brian Byrne
wedding gown L'ELITE BRIDAL location LONGFELLOWS photographed by ALYSSA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY Charlotte
128 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
B
Brian and I met on match.com. He winked at me, I winked back, and the conversation started from there. We quickly realized that we had a mutual friend, Shannon. Brian was close friends with Shannon throughout high school, and I had gone to graduate school and traveled abroad with her! We immediately texted her, seperatly, to asure it was worth going out on a date with eachother. We got her seal of approval. Our first date was on 2/4/16 at Shogun in Albany. I walked through the door, and as soon as our eyes met, we both knew this was something special. We had the *best* first date, full of laughter and I'm fairly certain we didn't have a minute of serious conversation! The night ended with a firm handshake and we parted ways. We've been together ever since. In November 2017, Brian proposed by saying we had to walk a friend's dog. He tied the ring to the dog's collar and popped the question. After I said yes, Brian had made reservations for the same booth at the restaurant we had our first date. Since then, we have three dogs and it was very important that they were a part of the wedding somehow. We also wanted to keep the wedding local and small, with our very closest friends and family there. The day was full of love and joy. All of the vendors were amazing throughout the entire process; we wouldn't have changed a thing!!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  129
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130 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Details
WEDDING DATE June 24, 2018 LOCATION Longfellows PHOTOGRAPHER Alyssa Johnson Photography WEDDING GOWN L'elite Bridal, Boston STATIONERY SUITE Minted.com EVENT DECORATOR Lauren Salvato, Longfellows BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Azazie GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Mr. Formal Wear RINGS Modern Gents Trading Co. WEDDING PLANNER Lauren Salvato, Longfellows HAIR & MAKEUP Patsy's Pin Ups Beauty Parlour FLOWERS Sarah Osborne, Dehn's Flowers CAKE The Cookie Factory DJ Paul Calarco,Jr. (Red Hot Entertainment) FIRST DANCE 'Fade Into You' by Mazzy Star HONEYMOON DESTINATION Cape Cod DOG HANDLERS Roxy's The Strutting Pooch DRESS ALTERATIONS Yana La Page, from WillFitUin SPECIAL TOUCHES... We had our three dogs "stand in" as the ring bearers and flower girl; a very dear friend was ordained and officated our wedding; we replicated the "chicken dance" as it was done in the show "New Girl", which is done in slow motion to a Phil Collins song. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Try not to get lost in the details; what matters the most is the LOVE between the couple, the family, and the friends who all came together to share in this very beautiful day.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  131
Boston, MA
Meghan & Sean Yuzwa
wedding gown FERRI FORMALS AND BRIDALS, SCHENECTADY location THE MANSION INN photographed by SUSAN BLACKBURN PHOTOGRAPHY
132 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
M
y name is Meghan Yuzwa (Mahoney) and I for the longest time felt like the girl from the movie 27 Dresses. I had been in 15 weddings and was the Maid of Honor in four of them. I grew up in Saratoga Springs, went to Siena college and had a great career locally but wasn’t meeting Mr. Right and wanted to experience living in a big city. I decided to uproot everything and move to Boston in June of 2010 for a change of scenery and to expand my horizons and my career. Sean had come to Boston from his home of Cleveland, Ohio post law school in 2001. Sean and I met on July 13, 2015 for our first date after corresponding through Match.com for about a month. It is such a cliché statement, but I just knew that first date that Sean was the one. We had a blast dating for two years, exploring Boston together and traveling. On our two-year dating Anniversary (July 13, 2017) Sean took me to the Envoy Hotel in Boston for dinner. After dinner we went up to the Envoy’s roof deck bar overlooking the Boston skyline and the harbor. As the sun went down and the skyline lit up, Sean got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. I said YES!!! Planning a wedding was overwhelming at first. We both have a lot of friends and big families. We had originally thought we’d do a huge 200-person wedding but ultimately followed what felt right for us and had a more intimate ceremony and reception. Saratoga Springs is where I grew up and it just has a special place in my heart, so when we found The Mansion Inn that could do everything for us with their Dare to Be Different Mid-Week package we were thrilled and booked our dream wedding. Sean and I were married on Tuesday, June 26, 2018 at 4pm at The Mansion Inn in Rock City Falls in front of 80 of our closest family and friends. We were married outside under the trees and sun, by Reverend Joy Burke who provided a customized ceremony perfectly tailored to us. Saratoga Sound provided amazing music, Susan Blackburn captured all our most precious moments with her photography and Annie Brill and The Mansion Inn didn’t miss one detail in making our wedding day spectacular. Sean and I left the next day for a 9-day honeymoon in Italy. Sean and I both thought we’d be married younger but I at 40 and Sean at 42 can both say it is so worth waiting for the right one!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 133
134 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Details
WEDDING DATE June 26, 2018 LOCATION The Mansion Inn, Rock City Falls PHOTOGRAPHER Susan Blackburn Photography STATIONERY SUITE Shutterfly EVENT DECORATOR The Mansion Inn WEDDING GOWN & BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Ferri Formals and Bridals, Schenectady TUXEDO & GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Ferri Formals and Bridals, Schenectady RINGS Tiffany & Co., Copley Place, Boston HAIR & MAKEUP Ambiance Salon & Day Spa, Latham FLOWERS Posie Peddler, Gretchen Squires CATERER & CAKE Chef Rick at The Mansion Inn DJ & BAND Saratoga Sound FIRST DANCE 'Perfect' by Ed Sheeran OFFICIANT Reverend Joy Burke SPECIAL TOUCHES... We did a mid-week wedding and our family and friends thought it was so cool to have something fun to do on a Tuesday afternoon and evening. We had a champagne greeting station for guests before the ceremony. We had personalized tissues at each seat for the ceremony. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Stay true to you as a couple and what your dream is for your special day. Try not to let the stress of planning get to you otherwise you'll miss the beauty of it all. Mistakes will happen but only you will notice it. Our officient Joy Burke was amazing and she said to make sure to stay together through the reception and enjoy the night together (We did)! Finally, take a deep breath and have the time of your life! Marriage is the most beautiful bond. Once the wedding is over you have a lifetime to enjoy that special bond together!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  135
Sarartoga Springs
Marissa &Phillip Romero
wedding gown JOCELYN'S BRIDAL location GIDEON PUTNAM photographed by OUT OF THE ORDINARY PHOTOGRAPHY
136 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
P
hil and I met in the Spring of 2010 working together at the Gideon Putnam. The day we met was Phil’s first day. I was a waitress and had been working there for the past six years through college. The morning we met was to work a Sunday Brunch in the Arches room and Phil was assigned to be my bus boy, so I had to show him the ropes. We quickly became close over that summer. Our first date was lunch at the Gideon Putnam and enjoying Jazz Fest at SPAC, not knowing it’d be the same place we’d say our vows 8 years later. That Fall I moved to NYC for graduate school and Phil was starting a job traveling the country. When we both left Saratoga we kept in close touch (hours on the phone), and seeing each other whenever we got the chance to. I’d take trips to see him (Delaware to Kentucky, and more) and he’d come and stay in the city with me. In 2013, after Phil visited me in NYC when he was there for a job, we decided we had to do whatever we could to be together. We both loved Saratoga, so our plan was to get back here to settle down. The Gideon Putnam has always been a special place for us. To complete the story, we were married at the Gideon Putnam, and had our reception in the same place we first laid eyes on each other.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 137
138 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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WEDDING DATE June 30, 2018 LOCATION Gideon Putnam PHOTOGRAPHER Out of the Ordinary Photography STATIONERY SUITE Invites from Minted.com, Save the Date by the Bride WEDDING GOWN Jocelyn's Bridal, Clifton Park BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES David's Bridal, Albany TUXEDO Macy's RINGS Jeff Cooper Designs HAIR Sariah Ashton MAKEUP Madison Reuter FLOWERS Dehn's Flowers CATERER Gideon Putnam CAKE Villa Italia Bakery DJ Direct Entertainment FIRST DANCE 'La Vie En Rose' by Louis Armstrong REHEARSAL DINNER Mouzon House FAVORS Saratoga Olive Oil SPECIAL TOUCHES... For years we took a picture with the same pose everywhere we went (all over US) and it became our Save the Date. Our cake topper had a dog on it, which was to represent our dog Simone (who we are obssessed with). ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Keep it small if you can. We had under 60 people at our wedding, just family and our closest friends. We were able to have fun and spend time with everyone and each other throughout the night. Have your maid of honor/best man make you a to-go platter of the hors d'oeuvres to have a late night snack in your room after the wedding. We were so excited/busy we didn't eat and almost ordered a pizza late night.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  139
Arlington, Virginia
Marissa &Stephen Miller
wedding gown A LOVE STORY BRIDAL location THE MANSION INN photographed by ANDREW FRANCIOSA
140 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Our Story
I
was born and raised in upstate New York, but it wasn't until I moved to Colorado that I met my now husband and the love of my life. When we met, I had just a few months left in Colorado before starting grad school back east, but a few months was all we needed to fall for each other. A couple years of long distance lovin' later, we both decided to relocate to yet another new location: Arlington, Virginia, where we live now. Stephen proposed on a cold January night in our apartment which he had decorated with candles, flowers, and a photo string chronologizing our relationship together. We knew we would be married in New York, and after a couple months of searching, we knew Saratoga was the perfect place. The Mansion Inn was the mix of elegant, rustic, modern, and fun that we were looking for. And one of the big selling points: Chef Rick and the food. We designed our menu from scratch with three stations to represent each of our home states and the state we live in now (NY, CO, and VA). The food included dishes that meant something to us, from Stephen's childhood favorite, potato pancakes, to a mushroom pizza crafted after one we had on a trip to Alaska. One of my favorite parts of our wedding was how personal it was. For our place cards, we wrote individual notes to each and every guest. We had a directional state sign with a board for each state that wedding guests had traveled in from. At our cocktail hour, we had a pretzel display handmade by my brother, and a pair of boots (my husband's nickname) filled with beautiful flowers. During dancing we had baskets of flip flops for guests, a homemade Polaroid frame for selfies, and a dessert station where guests could choose from five of our favorite sweets! Best of all, our family and us DIYed the vast majority of these things ourselves (we're lucky to have a crafty, talented family!) From the start of wedding planning, it was always about the people for us; the vendors who made our day possible, the people who came out and celebrated us, and the people who shaped us into the individuals and the couple that we are today. We were so fortunate to be surrounded by so much love as we entered into married life on June 30th 2018. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  141
142 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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WEDDING DATE June 30, 2018 LOCATION The Mansion Inn PHOTOGRAPHER Andrew Franciosa VIDEOGRAPHER Mike Verenini (Lovecraft Productions) STATIONERY SUITE Minted.com EVENT DECORATOR Styled by Melissa Brown WEDDING GOWN A Love Story Bridal BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Brideside (online) GROOM & GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Tuxego RINGS Mervis Diamond Importers FLOWERS Lauren Gagliardi, The Flowergirl HAIR Kristen Delamater, Haven Hair Studio MAKEUP Erin Marzilli CATERER & CAKE The Mansion Inn's Chef Rick DJ Greg Fraiser FIRST DANCE 'My Love Is Your Love' by Whitney Houston HONEYMOON DESTINATION Saint Kitts and Nevis SPECIAL TOUCHES... In my hair, I wore edelweiss flowers, to honor my late Poppy and Aunt who loved the song "Edelweiss." On my arm, I wore a bracelet from one of my best friends, Tori who would have been a bridesmaid. Wrapped around my bouquet were my Poppy's dog tags. I wore my mother's veil and my Nanny's (my grandma) garter. Stephen spent hours making homemade sriracha salt as our favors, which our guests loved! During our ceremony, we had each member of our immediate family write one sentiment on a rock that they want us to take into our marriage which we now keep in our living room. Every detail at our wedding meant something to us, and that's exactly how we wanted it to be. Our wedding date, 6.30.18, has both of our favorite numbers in it, which admittedly was not intentional, but a happy coincidence. Even our final guest count ended up being 143, which one of my bridesmaids pointed out to me spells out "I love you!" ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Do whatever you want! It's your wedding, you're not "supposed to" do anything, unless you want to. Also, be respectful of the time and effort that everyone has put into your day, remember to show gratitude to these people.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 143
Ballston Spa
Amanda & Lucas Rockwood
wedding gown SOMETHING BLEU BRIDAL location THE MANSION INN SARATOGA photographed by TWICE BELOVED STUDIO
144 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
I
grew up in Ballston Spa, and attended college in Boston. Moving back to the area in 2008 after graduation, I wound up in Saratoga. Luke grew up in Galway and lived here most of his life. We met online and our first date was at Wheatfield’s. Happy Hour turned into dinner, which turned into meeting up with my sister's softball team downtown. That night of talking and getting to know each other blossomed into a wonderful romance. It was June and the start of a Saratoga Summer. Fast forward and two years later I was turning 30 and planned to go back to Boston to celebrate with my college roommates. Little did I know Luke had planned to invite 30+ of our closest Saratoga friends to Boston. He was planning a surprise proposal. It was the perfect fall night on the streets of Boston where Luke asked me to be his wife. We spent the weekend celebrating with all of my Boston friends and all of our Saratoga friends. I could not wait to plan the wedding day. I looked at a few venues but I knew that The Mansion Inn Saratoga was the perfect location for us. Being foodies Chef Rick was the obvious choice. The Church was where Luke’s parents, as well as his brother had been married. The day was filled with love. I cannot express the gratitude we have for all of our vendor’s. They far surpassed all of our expectations.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 145
146 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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WEDDING DATE July 1, 2018 CEREMONY LOCATION West Charlton United Presbyterian Church RECEPTION The Mansion Inn Saratoga PHOTOGRAPHER Twice Beloved Studio VIDEOGRAPHER Zak Westbrook Films STATIONERY SUITE Pretty Polite Print Boutique WEDDING GOWN Something Bleu Bridal BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Various Locations - Christina Wu ENGAGEMENT RINGS Frank Adams Jewelers EVENT DECORATOR Total Events, LLC TUXEDO AND GROOMSMENS' TUXEDOS Tuxego HAIR AND MAKEUP Complexions Day Spa Saratoga FLOWERS Nectar Custom Floral Designs CAKE / CATERER Chef Rick at The Mansion Inn Saratoga TRANSPORTATION Royale Limousine DJ Conway Entertainment PHOTOBOOTH Twice Beloved Studio FIRST DANCE 'Then' by Brad Paisley HONEYMOON DESTINATION Sandals Ochi (Ocho Rios, Jamaica) SPECIAL TOUCHES... Paul Lambert provided live acoustic music during cocktail hour, Heather Rogers hand wrote all of the name cards and Marisa Visocchi was the personal bridal assistant on the day of. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... While it’s crucial to execute a well-planned wedding, remember there are always some things out of your control. In my case it was the weather. The high on my wedding day hit 97 degrees. Now, for an outdoor wedding that was less than ideal. I had two mini fans in each of my Wedding dress pockets. My husband and I rolled with the punches and it wound up being a perfect day – even if more than one of our wedding guests showed up in shorts.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 147
Elizabeth & Steve Conklin Saratoga Springs
wedding gown SOMETHING BLEU BRIDAL location THE ISLAND AT FERN LAKE photographed by EKO PHOTOGRAPHICS & GREEN RIVER PICTURES
148 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Our Story
S
aratoga Springs played cupid in our story - had it not been for this city and several local businesses Saratoga TODAY, the Alpine Sport Shop, Blue Sky Bicycles and the Saratoga Showcase of Homes - our love story might never have happened. My husband’s family is deeply rooted in this community - from helping build the Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church to constructing residential communities (his father was a local home builder) and co-founding the Saratoga Showcase of Homes. I on the other hand, moved here unexpectedly in 2015 after spending most of my 20s in NYC. In the winter of 2016 I was moonlighting as a reporter for Saratoga TODAY when my editor asked me to write an article on the Alpine Sport Shop’s 75th anniversary. With a deadline looming, I needed customer quotes to finish my article, so I messaged people who had reviewed Alpine on Facebook. Little did I know, one of those people was my future husband. Unfortunately, my FH didn’t reply until a month later (he had been in Australia visiting family). I friended him on Facebook, and in the spring we met in person at Druther’s, chatting about my new bike from Blue Sky and training for the Tour de Cure. Beers turned into a bike ride...then another, and another. We spent the rest of the summer as biking buddies - he did most of the talking (while I panted and cursed profusely), and I learned that his father had co-founded the event I’d just been hired to freelance for: the Saratoga Showcase of Homes. By fall, sparks had begun to fly; our first date was to the Showcase Awards that October. Last January, Steven went again to Australia to visit his family... I went to meet them. On our way home, we got engaged on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Six months later, we were married at his family’s camp on Fern Lake. It was beyond our wildest dreams, thanks to our loved ones ...and the Saratoga TODAY newspaper, ski shop, bike shop, and event his dad helped create more than two decades ago that serendipitously brought us together. Thank you, Saratoga! -The Conklins
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 149
150 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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WEDDING DATE July 14, 2018 LOCATION The Island at Fern Lake PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER EKO Photographics & Green River Pictures STATIONERY SUITE Minted.com WEDDING GOWN Something Bleu Bridal BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Dillard's GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING JCPenny, bows-n-ties.com HAIR Jessica Barchitta, West New York MAKEUP Lipstick N Lashes FLOWERS Global Rose (Tiffany Roses), Sam's Club CATERER Bodette's Barbecue Catering, Ticonderoga CAKE Cake Placid, Lake Placid, Pies from Noonmark Diner TRANSPORTATION Our pontoon boat, driven by family decked out in captains outfits DJ We made Spotify playlists & our friends, The Bordens, DJ'd FIRST DANCE 'Your Song' by Ewan McGregor (Moulin Rouge) PHOTOBOOTH Homemade from XL antique wooden frame HONEYMOON DESTINATION Seychelles (East Africa) ACCOMMODATIONS The Adirondack Spruce Lodge & The Cadence Lodge at Whiteface WEDDING WEBSITE & ORGANIZATION APP TheKnot (life saving!) TENTS/TABLES/CHAIRS Fosters' Tent Rentals, West Chazy SPECIAL TOUCHES... Breathtaking backdrop to our rehearsal dinner at the The Hungry Trout Resort (Wilmington, NY). Ambiance is everything. Tulle, flowers, candles, frames with pictures of the couples/families & signage make all the difference. Instead of a guest book, our guests wrote messages on an unfinished Adirondack chair in permanent marker. We applied polyurethane to it later & are using it at camp. Tons of twinkle lights & tiki torches were a must-have. One of our bridesmaids shipped us leftover sparklers from her wedding for our sparkler send-off. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Put people first, the party second: this will be stressful, you'll argue with each other and with family, but people are what make it magical...not perfection. Resist the urge to control everything: invite friends and family to help and delegate to those who want to. Our wedding was so incredible because our loved ones were integral in making it possible and personal... we'd NEVER have pulled it off without them. Take lots of pictures throughout the entire process (even the parts that make you want to elope!) for a "behind the scenes" memory album later.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  151
Amsterdam
Amy & Brad Schaffer
wedding gown NEW PARIS, AMSTERDAM location REVOLUTION HALL, TROY photographed by ROB SPRING PHOTOGRAPHY - SARAH WIGLEY
152 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
B
rad worked with my sister's husband before he and I met, and they thought it would be a good idea to set us up. We were introduced, talked, and exchanged numbers, but we went months without speaking. One day in July, I reached out to Brad. We spoke for hours and spent time together. We discovered how much we had in common and our relationship began to blossom. We began to travel together and explore different restaurants and breweries. We spent many spring breaks on beaches somewhere in the Caribbean and many summer nights testing out new craft beers. We love to travel together, but there is no place that means more to us than the small beach town in Delaware, Dewey Beach. My family has spent 30 plus summers vacationing there. When I brought Brad, he fell in love with the small beach town just as I did growing up. It holds a special place in our hearts because on August 1, 2016, on a family vacation, Brad proposed on the beach while taking a walk after dinner. We sat down on the sand, watching the waves and talking. When he pulled the ring out of his pocket, I was shocked and so grateful that I found someone who will be my partner and to walk through life with. As we began to plan our wedding, we knew we wanted the day to be easy for our guests. We didn't want people to have to drive to the church, to the reception and back to a hotel. We wanted our guests to come and celebrate with us, to just relax and enjoy this moment with us. With this in mind and our love for craft beer, after visiting only one venue, we chose Revolution Hall in Troy. When walking into the venue, it felt perfect. The eclectic feel and the history of the building made it an easy decision for us. Our wedding day couldn't have been more beautiful with family members traveling near and far to celebrate with us. We are so thankful to all of our vendors who helped make our vision a reality and the day so special for us. To this day, when we talk with friends and family, they all speak so highly of our wedding, from the food to the drinks and the music. They all continue to say what a beautiful day it was and how they were able to just relax and enjoy celebrating our marriage.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  153
154 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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WEDDING DATE July 15, 2017 LOCATION Revolution Hall, Troy PHOTOGRAPHER Rob Spring Photography - Sarah Wigley VIDEOGRAPHER Memories In The Making Productions STATIONERY SUITE Crystal Composition, Etsy, Newark, DE WEDDING GOWN New Paris, Amsterdam BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Bridesmaids purchased navy dresses of their choice EVENT DECORATOR Carrie Harkin RINGS Hannoush, Albany (Bride) Castiglione Jewelers, Gloversville (Groom) GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Men's Warehouse HAIR AND MAKEUP Bella Vita Salon, Amsterdam FLOWERS Jay Flora Design, Fonda WEDDING PLANNER Carrie Harkin CATERER Browns Brewing Company, Revolution Hall CAKE The Cookie Factory, Troy BAND TS Ensemble FIRST DANCE 'At Last' by Eta James CEREMONY MUSIC Mary Gillman FIRST LOOK Sage College, Troy NY HONEYMOON DESTINATION Punta Cana, Dominican Republic SPECIAL TOUCHES... Habana Premium Cigar Shoppe, Albany NY, Porter Leather, Etsy, favors, New Port Richey, Florida. DAZL Designz - Schaffer sign, Unity Candle, Etsy, Susabella, Woodinville, Washington. Cake topper, Etsy, Wedding decor, Last name hanger, Etsy, Fox Blossom Company ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Planning your special day can be overwhelming. Take time and enjoy each moment. If it doesn't go as planned, try not to get worked up over the little things. You will be the only person who will know if something didn’t go as planned. Enjoy the day, take time to greet all your guests during cocktail hour. My husband and I went around and said hello to everyone during this time. This allowed us to have the reception to enjoy all the moments. Write your own vows. The heart felt words read to each other come from the heart and hold so much more meaning than per-arranged vows. If you can surprise your new husband with something unexpected, do it. My husband enjoys a good cigar, and surprising him with a cigar roller at the wedding topped off the night. He was so was grateful that I thought of something so touching during the planning.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 155
Boston
Meredith & Christopher Merr
wedding gown HEAD OVER HEELS, BLUE THREAD DESIGN location EMMA WILLARD SCHOOL photographed by LOVE AND LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHS
156 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
I
cI cannot believe our wedding day has already come and gone --if only we could relive the day over and over again!
As wedding photographers ourselves, (Meredith Jane Photography), Chris and I reminded each other each chance we had to "take it all in" throughout our wedding planning journey. Nevertheless, I look back on this past year (and the four years we’ve been together prior to), and it feels like a complete whirlwind. It all started when we went on an “epic” first date on Martha’s Vineyard where we rode a moped all the way around the island. Three years later Chris took me back to Martha’s Vineyard to propose, and I knew we had to incorporate that aspect of our love story into our wedding day. Since Chris and I were both from upstate NY and living in Boston, it hadn’t occurred to me until about a year before he proposed that my high school just outside of Saratoga Springs would be the perfect backdrop for our wedding. While this school does not allow weddings anymore, they were so kind to make an exception for this milestone. This venue has a special place in my heart — not only had I attended high school and multiple summer camps there, but my mother had also taught language there for 40 years, and so it has become like a second home to myself and family over the years. So much love and thanks to our “dream team” who made our wedding so remarkable. As a wedding photographer I knew how much we would cherish this day, and so I chose a team of vendors who are truly top notch --our celebration was executed to perfection by every one of them! Our wedding was such a dream and the best day of our lives. It's a celebration we will never forget, and a day we have already grown nostalgic for these short months later.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 157
158 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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WEDDING DATE August 8, 2018 LOCATION Emma Willard School PHOTOGRAPHER Love and Light Photographs VIDEOGRAPHER Buell Productions STATIONERY SUITE Amanda Day Rose EVENT DECORATOR Susan of Old Daley Catering and Keri of Always Yours Events WEDDING GOWN Custom design by Blue Thread Bridal, purchased at Head Over Heels BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Weddington Way TUXEDO & GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING The Black Tux RINGS Barmakian's Jewelers FLOWERS The Wild Dahlia WEDDING PLANNER Always Yours Events HAIR & MAKEUP Alexandria's Beauty CATERER Old Daley Catering CAKE Lauren's Specialty Cakes TRANSPORTATION Royale Limousine DJ Superfly Sounds PHOTOBOOTH One Chance Media FIRST DANCE 'Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not' by Thompson Square, song by Christine Teeters and Zachary Hope HONEYMOON DESTINATION Mykonos and Santorini, Greece CALLIGRAPHY Emilee Ann Hopkins RENTALS Rain or Shine Tent Company, PEAK Event Services, True North Event Rentals, BBJ Linen, and Cycles 128 STRING QUARTET Musicians Of Ma'alwyck PRIEST Father Ed Kacerguis THANK YOU NOTE & FLIP BOOK COVER DESIGN Reani ROBES By Catalfo SHOES Kate Spade WEDDING HAT BOX eAGAPIcom PIPE BAND Schenectady Pipe Band ACCOMMODATIONS Franklin Square Inn and The Hilton Garden Inn SPECIAL TOUCHES... There were SO many special touches. One of my favorites was the Scottish EVERYTHING! www.meredithjanephoto.com/blog/our-fairy-tale-wedding-meredith-chris-kerr-troy-ny ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Be explicit about what you want but ultimately trust your vendors, relax and enjoy your day!!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  159
Manhattan
Aly & Kyle Martin
wedding gown THE WHITE DRESS location SARATOGA NATIONAL GOLF CLUB photographed by THE HARRIS COMPANY
160 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
K
yle and I met as many couples do these days – on a dating app. Neither of us were looking for anything serious (I had just moved to New York City from Kansas a year prior) but for both of us, that first date was different than all the rest. The ongoing joke to this day is, “Thank goodness we both swiped right!” We have been inseparable since. After dating for ten months we moved into my tiny Upper East Side studio apartment together. Less than a week later Kyle came home one evening, handed me a bouquet of flowers, sat down next to me on the bed (the only furniture to sit on in a studio apartment) and proposed. I couldn’t stop laughing (sorry, Kyle!). We were both in sweats. It was perfect. Instead of having the wedding in New York City, Saratoga proved to be the more logical option. The Martin family spends the racing season there, so bringing my family up to join them for an extended wedding weekend was a great way to introduce everyone! Kyle and I love to golf, making Saratoga National, with its impeccable grounds and beautiful landscape, an easy decision for a venue. From day one we wanted our wedding to center around not only us, but the merging of our families – we got exactly that! That day truly encapsulated everything that was important to us. We can’t thank our vendors enough for helping us put together such a memorable day.
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 161
162 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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WEDDING DATE August 20, 2017 LOCATION Saratoga National Golf Club PHOTOGRAPHER / VIDEOGRAPHER The Harris Company STATIONERY SUITE Blacker & Kooby by Vanessa BRIDE AND BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES The White Dress - Wichita, KS ENGAGEMENT RINGS NYC diamond district WEDDING BANDS Bloomingdales GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Mens Attire - Bobby HAIR Changes Salon - Lara MAKEUP Monique WEDDING PLANNER Andrea Cole at Saratoga National FLOWERS Samantha Nass Floral Design CAKE / CATERER Mazzone Hospitality BAND / DJ Ubuntu - Al and Sue Wolfer PHOTOBOOTH Complete Weddings & Events FIRST DANCE 'The Man in Me' by Bob Dylan REHEARSAL DINNER Saratoga Casino AFTER PARTY Vapor HONEYMOON DESTINATION We did a "Mini-moon" in Vermont to hike and golf - beautiful! SPECIAL TOUCHES... Special jewelry - my mom and I wore similar pearl necklaces that belonged to her mother (my grandma). I also wore my mom's pearl earrings and pearl bracelet. The Handkerchief I used for happy tears during the ceremony was my grandpa's. My grandparents passed away several years ago, so it was important to include them on that day! ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... One thing that ended up being super helpful was choosing vendors that have worked together before. Our florist and photographers knew each other very well, and they had great experience with our venue. It was the same with our officiant! It takes a bit of stress off of you since they all know what to expect from one another - one less thing you need to worry about! So ask for referrals! ALSO, planning a wedding is incredibly stressful. Take a step back and pause every so often. Enjoy it. So many little details don't matter the day of the wedding. Throughout the entire planning process I just wanted it to be over! But our wedding day turned out to be one of the most fun, relaxing, and memorable days we've ever had. I would endure all of that stress over and over again to relive that day!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  163
Brittani & Charles Keppler
Buffalo
High Rock Sketch
wedding gown BHLDN - ANTHROPOLOGIE location FAMILY HOME, SCHROON LAKE photographed by TRISHA MILLIER PHOTOGRAPHY
164 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
I
t all started 18 years ago when I was just 13 years old. My parents were going to meet up with their friends "The Kepplers" who came to Schroon Lake every summer. Unbeknownst to me, The Kepplers had a son 'Charlie' who was 14. After Charlie and I met, we were inseparable during those sunny summer days in Schroon Lake. After Charlie and his family had to go back to Buffalo, we stayed in touch. We would buy phone cards with our allowances and use all 500 minutes in one night (it was before cell phones were so popular). We would make plans for the future and say "well, if we're not married to other people before we're 30 then we will marry each other." Through college, numerous girlfriends and boyfriends later, Charlie and I still remained good friends. There was a summer romance between us every now and again ;) and as soon as we would see each other, it was like we were back to those days when we were kids, falling in love all over again. The stars aligned for us once again in 2015. My father passed away and I was drawn to the one man whom I always deeply loved. I moved to Buffalo, (where we still reside) and our relationship grew and grew. Charlie proposed on the beach during our trip to Siesta Key. Even though we live in Buffalo, it just made sense to have our wedding in the Adirondacks. It is where we met and fell in love. We were so happy to share our magical place in Schroon Lake with our family and friends.
SS
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  165
166 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Details
WEDDING DATE September 1, 2018 LOCATION Family home, Schroon Lake PHOTOGRAPHER Trisha Millier Photography STATIONERY SUITE Minted WEDDING GOWN BHLDN - Anthropologie BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES BHLDN, Reformation, LULU'S (They mixed and matched) GROOM'S CLOTHING JC Penny RINGS Local Jewelers HAIR & MAKEUP Lauren Westmoreland FLOWERS Rebecca's Florist, Warrensburg CATERER Dinosaur BBQ CAKE Belle Dolci, North Creek BAND / DJ Richie Ortiz & DJ Any Pratt FIRST DANCE 'Forever and for Always' by Richie Ortiz HONEYMOON DESTINATION Siesta Key, Florida TENT Foster's Tent Rentals, West Chazy BATHROOM TRAILER Stone Industries, Saratoga SPECIAL TOUCHES... I used pintrest for inspiration, made my own centerpieces and used ETSY for the special touches. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Plan months in advance then let it all go and ENJOY the day!
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SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | SARATOGA BRIDE |  167
Pasadena, CA
Michaela &Alex Grandjacquet
High Rock Sketch
wedding gown LILY SARATOGA location WEDDING BARN AT LAKOTA'S FARM photographed by MEAGHAN ALDRIDGE
168 | SARATOGA BRIDE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
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Our Story
B
efore meeting each other, We both raced for Gore ski teams around the same time and frequented the restaurant, Casey’s North in North creek after long ski days. Coincidentally, both of our families would go to Sarge’s Triangle Diner for breakfast on the weekends also. It was my senior year of high school (2012) when I met Alex while he was in his senior year at Siena College. Since his parents still lived in Saratoga (he graduated SSHS ‘08), Alex would often go back home to hang with friends and family, and of course use his parents' home for house parties when they were away. One day at the YMCA, Alex invited my friends and I to his house for one of these parties. From then on, Alex and I were pretty much inseparable. Come fall 2012, I was reluctantly off to college at SUNY Cortland (after almost catching a plane to Italy with Alex right then and there, if only I had a passport). Fast forward 5 and a half years, 4 years of college for me, 5 moves (only 1 together to Florida after school), 3 promotions, 2 different companies, and countless trips to different cities, and Alex is on his knee when I turn around at the top of his beautiful family home in San Gemini, Italy. It felt like an absolute fairy tale. Just less than a year later, after another big move to LA, I married my best friend and soul mate surrounded by all of the people we love and care about at the most beautiful venue with the help of our amazing vendors. We are so excited to continue this journey of life together as husband and wife in the place where it all started :)
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Details WEDDING DATE September 1, 2018 LOCATION Wedding Barn at Lakota's Farm PHOTOGRAPHER Meaghan Aldridge STATIONERY SUITE Paperdolls WEDDING GOWN Lily saratoga BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Lily Saratoga TUXEDO & GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Mr. Formal Wear RINGS Glenn Peter Jewelers HAIR Kathleen at Valentino’s MAKEUP Jenna Carole FLOWERS Sarah Waite at Dehn’s Flowers CATERER Mama Mia’s CAKE Bread Basket BAND Let’s Be Leonard/ Jake Allen FIRST DANCE 'Perfect Symphony' by Ed Sheeran & Andrea Bocelli HONEYMOON DESTINATION France ( Paris, French Riviera) SPECIAL TOUCHES... We used my brothers band, Let’s Be Leonard, who are normally a jam band that plays in the Capital District and at festivals, but they absolutely killed it at our wedding and everyone loved how different It was. Don’t be afraid to branch out and do something different :) ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... If one thing doesn’t go right, which will happen at least once, just know that at the end of the day nothing matters but you and your husband/wife and it’s all about the love you share with each other that day, and for the rest of your lives together :)
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Clifton Park
Sydney & Christopher Manning
High Rock Sketch
wedding gown SOMETHING BLEU BRIDAL location LONGFELLOWS photographed by DANNI LARAIA
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Our Story
C
hris and I met working together, we slowly began to fall in love and when we had our first date, which included a silly string fight, we knew we were the ones for each other. When Chris proposed he took me on a scavenger hunt around Saratoga to places where we had the most amazing memories. The ice skating rink, where I only fell one time, Our favorite late night pizza spot, Congress Park where we had our first kiss and it ended at the site of our first date. When I said yes our families came out and sprayed us with silly string. It was perfect. I knew our wedding had to keep Saratoga in mind. I'm from Saratoga Springs and we have the most amazing memories in Saratoga. At my bridal shower, we drank Saratoga wedding tea and had it in downtown Saratoga Springs. After visiting many venues Longfellows felt like the perfect fit for us and our smallish wedding. Our wedding day was the most perfect day of our lives. We are so grateful for our amazing vendors and our friends and family for all the hard work and love they put into it.
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WEDDING DATE September 2, 2018 LOCATION Longfellows PHOTOGRAPHER Danni LaRaia WEDDING GOWN Something Bleu Bridal BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES David's Bridal GROOM & GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Tuxego RINGS Kay Jewelers HAIR Abbi Gailor MAKEUP Rachel Duff FLOWERS Posie Peddler CATERER Longfellows CAKE Cake by Alissa DJ Tony Platinum FIRST DANCE 'Perfect' by Ed Sheeran HONEYMOON DESTINATION A weekend in Massachusetts to see Ed Sheeran in concert SPECIAL TOUCHES... Chris and I gave eachother matching MVMT watches as wedding gifts. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Planning is a stressful time, there's no way around it. My advice is to not listen to anyone else and go with what you and your soon to be spouse want. It's your day! Don't let anyone make any decisions for you! Just remember that on the day of the wedding there is no changing anything, everything is set and is what it is. Enjoy yourself and have fun!
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Boston
Maggie & Tom Mahar
wedding gown MUSETTE BRIDAL, BOSTON, MA location THE SARATOGA READING ROOM photographed by NIKI ROSSI
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Our Story
T
om and I met at one of our favorite places, Siena College. We started dating the first day of our Junior year - September 8, 2011. From that point on, as cliche as it sounds, he's been my best friend. Shortly after graduating from Siena, Tom and I moved to Boston. On a rainy Friday in September last year in Boston, Tom anxiously waited at our apartment because I was late getting home from work. What seemed like a 'bad Friday' - working late, rain, etc., turned out to be one of the BEST DAYS of my life. Tom got down on one knee in our kitchen and asked me to marry him. Later that night, Tom surprised me with ALL of our friends/family at a restaurant in Boston. I've never felt more special in my life.. ..Until our wedding day, September 8, 2018, also our 7 year anniversary. Being from Saratoga, I wanted something quintessential to the town. The Reading Room was just that. What I loved most was everyone's reactions, including ours, when we found out we would be going to the Reading Room! I've always wondered what it looks like beyond the fence on Union Ave.! The grounds of the Reading Room reflected Saratoga in a nutshell; full of charm, character and history. Thanks to my mom, Kate Deloria, not a detail was overlooked. The flowers, tent, table settings, favors - it was spectacular. To top off the beauty and excitement of the day, we became an Aunt and Uncle. On September 8, my brother Peter and Sister-in-law Betsy gave birth to the most perfect baby girl, Molly, and made it a day we'll never forget.
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WEDDING DATE September 8, 2018 LOCATION The Saratoga Reading Room PHOTOGRAPHER Niki Rossi VIDEOGRAPHER Will Beyer STATIONERY SUITE PaperDolls WEDDING GOWN Musette Bridal, Boston, MA BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Camilyn Beth (custom made from designer in Sarasota, FL) GROOM AND GROOMSMENS' TUXEDOS JoS. A. Bank EVENT DECORATOR Kate Deloria (Mom) RINGS Cristina Romig & Co. (family jeweler in Rochester) HAIR Alexandria's Beauty BRIDE'S MAKEUP Timeless Updos BRIDESMAIDS' MAKEUP Alexandria's Beauty FLOWERS Posie Peddler (Reception), Karan Murray (Church/Large Ceiling Flower Wreath) CATERER / CAKE Mazzone Hospitality BAND East Coast Soul, Boston TRANSPORTATION Upstate Trolley & Buses FIRST DANCE 'You're All I Need to Get By' by Marvin Gaye HONEYMOON DESTINATION Aruba COCKTAIL HOUR MUSIC Reggie and the Red Hot Feet Warmers BAGPIPER Bob Flynn CIGAR ROLLER Franklin Prichardo SPECIAL TOUCHES... Tom Durkin - Announcer of Bridal Party, Toga Heritage - Leather Bound Matches (party favor) & Toga Canvas Bags Tote Bags full of goodies for welcome bag, Feathered Antler - Hand Painted Match Boxes (party favor), Rain or Shine - Sperry Tent and Bonfire Pit ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... HAVE FUN at your own wedding. Dance, sing, let loose - it's YOUR day! ENJOY the days leading up to the wedding don't stress the small stuff, roll with it and embrace it all. Take a minute to think about how lucky you are that all of these people came to celebrate YOU! Soak it up.
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Saratoga Springs
Kelli & Charles Hoertkorn
wedding gown ANGELA'S BRIDAL location WEDDING BARN AT LAKOTA'S FARM photographed by ROB SPRING PHOTOGRAPHY
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Our Story
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harlie and I met on September 24, 2013, my birthday. My girlfriends and I had just finished dinner at One Caroline Bistro in Saratoga. We decided to venture to a nearby bar, Caroline St. Pub, to watch my favorite local musician, Rich Ortiz. Little did I know, I would meet the love of my life that night! Charlie owned Caroline Street Pub and happened to be working behind the bar that night with his bar manager, Jake. As soon as Jake introduced us, we immediately connected! After hours of talking and flirting, Jake managed to sneak Charlie's number into my phone. For a while, Charlie and I had a very casual relationship, sometimes drifting apart. At one point, we were both seeing other people. Even though we never fully committed to each other, the strong connection we had never went away. After some time apart, Charlie unexpectedly came back into my life, and much to my surprise, expressed his deep love for me. We immediately picked right up where we left off... this time, fully committed. Exactly four years later to the day that Charlie and I met, he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. It was the most magical day of my entire life, and by far the best birthday gift I could ever ask for! Our story led us to September 22, 2018 - our wedding day, where we were surrounded by our amazing family and friends at the beautiful Wedding Barn at Lakota's Farm. We are so grateful for our vendors and the amazing staff at Lakota's Farm, who helped make our wedding day a dream come true!
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WEDDING DATE September 22, 2018 LOCATION The Wedding Barn at Lakota's Farm PHOTOGRAPHER Rob Spring Photography VIDEOGRAPHER Mitchell Wood at Rob Spring Photography STATIONERY SUITE PaperDolls of Saratoga EVENT DECORATOR Family and Friends of the Bride WEDDING GOWN Angela's Bridal BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Lily Saratoga TUXEDO & GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Mr. Formal Wear RINGS Northeastern Fine Jewelry HAIR Revive Hair and Skin MAKEUP Erin Ford Makeup + Skincare FLOWERS All flowers by Bloom's Wedding and Event Design Studio, table centerpiece by family friend Donna Williams. CATERER Suburban Kitchen, Ryan O'Shea CAKE Cake by Alissa TRANSPORTATION Upstate Transit BAND Rich Ortiz, ceremony/cocktail hour/first dance RECEPTION BAND The Radio Junkies FIRST DANCE 'Inside Out' by The Chainsmokers, performed acoustic by Rich Ortiz HONEYMOON DESTINATION Jamaica, South Coast! OFFICIANT Darcy Williams SPECIAL TOUCHES... For our wedding guest book, we had our guests sign a barstool from my husband's establishment, Caroline St. Pub. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Try not to sweat the small stuff. Enjoy every minute of the planning process because it goes by so quickly!
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Elizabeth & Conor Crawford Arvada, Colorado
wedding gown MARK INGRAM ATELIER location THE INN AT ERLOWEST photographed by TRACEY BUYCE
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Our Story
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elieve it or not, Conor and I met at the Saratoga Race Track. Conor was visiting his dad for a few weeks while on break from Godolphin Flying Start, a thoroughbred training program and I was attending with a friend. It is serendipitous because I grew up on Lake George, and quite frankly I did not leave the lake during the summer. Nevertheless we stayed in contact with each other throughout the remaining year of the program that took Conor to Australia, Dubai, England, Ireland and then to the University of Virginia Law School. Our relationship continued to grow with each move because we were forced to communicate effectively with one another. We made time for one another throughout our day and planned long weekend visits. Each summer Conor came back to Saratoga and we split our time between Lake George and Saratoga. Conor proposed Christmas Eve during his second year of law school so we decided on a long engagement of two and half years. We had a lot to accomplish: finish law school, pass bar exam, start and finish judicial clerkship, sell Saratoga house, rent/ buy a house in Colorado, move to Colorado and plan a wedding! Luckily, The Inn at Erlowest was always our venue. It holds a special place in my heart as I personally watched it transform into the facility it is today. Our wedding was a tribute to our family and friends from near and far and made possible by all our favorite vendors.
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Larger version on page 73.
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Details
John Greenwoods’ grandparents 50th wedding anniversary dinner at Ash Grove Inn
WEDDING DATE September 29, 2018 CEREMONY Sacred Heart Chapel LOCATION The Inn at Erlowest PHOTOGRAPHER Tracey Buyce VIDEOGRAPHER Full Frame Cinema STATIONERY SUITE Jenny C Design EVENT DECORATOR Renaissance Floral Design WEDDING GOWN Mark Ingram Atelier BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES BHLDN, Nordstrom and Bijou Bridal TUXEDO Mark Thomas Men's Apparel GROOMSMENS' CLOTHING Badowers RINGS Borsheims HAIR & MAKEUP Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness FLOWERS Renaissance Floral Design CATERER Mazzone Hospitality CAKE Colin Miner and Mrs. London's Bakery TRANSPORTATION Royale Limousine and Lake George Trolley BAND Beantown of Wilson Stevens Productions FIRST DANCE 'Where You Are' by Tenille Townes HONEYMOON DESTINATION Crete, Greece FIREWORKS Santore's World Famous Fireworks SPECIAL TOUCHES... We built time into our day to watch a horse race. ADVICE TO PASS ALONG... Take your time when planning so you can enjoy the process. Haste makes waste!
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ADVICE FROM THE
MOTHER OF THE BRIDE
WRITTEN BY CAROL GODETTE PHOTO BY NIKI ROSSI
With only one daughter, “M.O.B.” is a role that I only get to play once in my life. Viewing the seven-minute video reel of my daughter and new son-in-law’s wedding—with a few tears, I’ll admit—allowed me to experience the day all over again. I was reminded, of course, of what a joyous celebration it was, but also of all the thought and attention that went into planning the big day. I can’t take credit for it all, but I can share my takeaways for future M.O.Bs and M.O.Gs. First of all, remember whose wedding it is, especially when creating the guest list. This was one of our biggest challenges. My best friend’s son’s wedding is next month. He teasingly reminded her, “Mom, it’s not your family reunion, it’s our wedding.” I chuckled when she shared this, but also found truth in his humor. My daughter, Kristy, and her husband wanted a smaller, more intimate wedding with no more than 125 guests. That gave each side 62 guests. Kristy had been in several weddings and had 10 lifelong friends, all married or in long-term relationships. We have a small, close family. I could see my friend and neighbor list shrinking. We applied my sister Janet’s rule, “If you didn’t regularly celebrate a major holiday such as Thanksgiving, Christmas or Easter with them, they don’t make the cut.” That rule helped clarify important people that needed to be on our guest list. I reminded myself that this was NOT my wedding and I would ultimately not be creating the guest list for our side, my daughter would. Secondly, the photos from that day will be shared on social media, in albums and will be cherished for the rest of your life. When else will you get your entire extended family together with a professional photographer? You want to look and feel your absolute best, starting with your dress. I found it hard to make a decision inside a store, so for me, I took a few favorites home knowing I would return one or two. I invited fashion savvy friends, my sister, and my daughter over to help me “say yes to the dress.” We took cell phone shots and analyzed how they worked on my “problem areas.” In the end I bought two dresses that I loved and took them to “Altered States” on Long Alley to ensure a perfect fit. I waited to see the weather and my mood and chose my dress the morning of the wedding. Looking back at the photos, I am confident and “in the moment” which I partially attribute to being comfortable in my dress. Everyone told me the day would go by quickly. I was not prepared for the warp speed that time took on. We had four guests from England, our pastor who flew in from California and our son and his family from Prague, along with other out-of-town guests. I wanted to spend quality time with all of them, a nearly impossible feat. If we only had a one-day celebration that wouldn’t have happened. Fortunately, our welcome dinner, rehearsal dinner (which included out-of-town guests) and farewell brunch give us extra time to catch up with people who made great efforts to travel and be part of our special event. It’s easy to go over budget, so pick two or three things you want to focus time and money on. One was a videographer and the other was renting a trolley to transport the wedding party from the photo shoot to the wedding and reception. I will always remember 22 voices joyfully belting out to the words to “Chapel of Love” as we rounded the corner of Union and Nelson Ave. on our way to an event I will always treasure. No matter what advice you chose to glean from my experiences, cheers to the greatest role a mom ever gets to play!
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