Tri-State Bride 2019

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TRI-STATE BRIDE 2019 | 1

TRI-STATE BRIDE | TABLE OF CONTENTS

bride

feature articles

TRI-STATE

06 14 21 34

AN OUTDOOR WEDDING FOR THE AGES

38

NEWLY WED COOKING WITH CHEF AMANDA HANCOCK

48 50 52

DESTINATION WEDDINGS

54

LAST FLING BEFORE THE RING

PUBLISHER Brian Bennett info@evansvillemediagroup.com

Tri-State Couple Throws Caution to the Wind

INDOOR OR OUTDOOR?

OPERATIONS MANAGER Joshua Adams billing@evansvillemediagroup.com

Wedding Venue Advice from City Social Events

THE ULTIMATE WEDDING CHECKLIST

MANAGING EDITOR & WRITER Thomas Ellis tommy@evansvillemediagroup.com

Your Guide to Planning the Perfect Wedding

BRIDAL PARTY GIFT GUIDE / INVITATION TRENDS

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Dillon Coultas dillon.news4u@gmail.com

Shopping Advice for the Bride-to-be

Terri Hilborn terri@evansvillemediagroup.com

Start Off on the Right Foot in the Kitchen

TJ Tanoos tj@evansvillemediagroup.com

52

Get Out of Dodge and Say "I Do"

HONEYMOON HOTSPOTS

DESIGNER & LAYOUT ARTIST Kelsey Halbig kelsey@sociallifemarketing.com

Where to Go after You Tie the Knot

EXOTIC GETAWAYS

Bailey Rideout bailey@sociallifemarketing.com

Explore the World as a Couple

GRAPHIC DESIGNER, DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Jen McKee jenniferm@sociallifemarketing.com

Make Your Bachelorette Party Memorable

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Rajiv KC CONTRIBUTORS Leslie Davis, Amanda Hancock

Tri-State Bride is published yearly and is distributed throughout the Tri-State.

For information about advertising,

06

advertiser articles 13 15 16 18

Cambridge Golf Club Owensboro Convention Center SMG of Evansville Catanese Realty Professionals

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40 42 51 56

Just Rennie's Piece of Cake Travel Smart Exotica

subscriptions, distribution or guides & lists, call (812) 426-6398 or write us at 125 N. Weinbach Ave, STE 510, Evansville IN 47711. Tri-State Bride is published by EMG, all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of the magazine does not necessarily constitute endorsement of products, services or opinions within. Advertisers are responsible for the content of their ads.

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TRI-STATE BRIDE 2019 | 3

TRI-STATE BRIDE | NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

a quick note from the editor

S

o, you're finally going to take the plunge, eh? No time like the present to cement your relationship with that one true love - but it couldn't hurt to get a little bit of advice before walking down the aisle.

And that's why Tri-State Bride is such a helpful guide to wedded bliss. Every year, we reach out to area experts on all facets of marriage prep and publish their sage words for your benefit. From frank realty talk to useful travel tips, wild bachelorette party ideas to ceremony venue options and much more, there's a little bit of everything inside the pages of TSB. Of course, we put our two cents in as well with an entertaining cover story about a local couple's crazy outdoor wedding - which

leads to the inevitable debate: indoor or outdoor? City Social Events owner Leslie Davis tackles the pros and cons to help you make the right decision.

Most importantly, this should be one of the greatest moments of your life, so take a deep breath and don't rush into the process of getting hitched without first flipping through Tri-State Bride. Chances are you'll learn a thing or two, maybe even save yourself time and money. Just be sure to have fun along the way and make the most of your journey into couplehood.

Many years of love and friendship await; we wish you the very best for 2019 and beyond. - TE

F O R M O R E A R T I CL E S A N D W ED D I N G PL A N N I N G T I P S V IS I T US @ T R IS TAT EB R I D E. M E

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TRI-STATE BRIDE 2019 | 5

TRI-STATE BRIDE | COVER STORY

An Outdoor Wedding

for the ages!

T R I -S TAT E CO U PL E T H R OW S C AU T I O N TO T H E W I N D F O R FE S T I VA L- L I K E CER EM O N Y

I

t's one of the biggest decisions that an engaged couple will make: indoor or outdoor?

We're talking, of course, about where to hold the wedding ceremony and reception. If you're not one for rolling the dice and tend to err on the safe side of things, then you'll want to stick with an enclosed area that will take any weather-related issues, among other potential pitfalls, out of the equation.

However, if you're a bit of a wild card and can handle the stress that comes with planning an outdoor event, you might just be handsomely rewarded. Because as beautiful a setting as a church or elegant banquet hall can be, there's simply nothing quite like tying the knot under blue skies - or cloud cover, for that matter; it's all good! True, it can all go to hell in a matter of minutes if Mother Nature decides to intervene, but that's what back-up plans are for. Then again, not everyone thinks that far ahead. Or worries about such things, more accurately. Local newlyweds Moriah Rose Hobgood and Lance Farley fit that profile, having thrown caution to the wind last October with a "festival-like" wedding in the backyard of the groom's best friend.

But let's back up for a moment, because like a lot of couples, Hobgood and Farley have a pretty

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SPECIAL THANKS P H O T O S B Y: A L E X MORGAN IMAGING

entertaining engagement story - not terribly romantic, but entertaining, nonetheless. "It wasn't really an asking situation," Hobgood bluntly states. "I had totally put him in a panic because I had said, 'It's been five years [of dating] - sh*t or get off the pot, bub!' And he was just like, 'I can't take it!' and he said, 'Here!' - the diamond ring was sitting in the drawer right beside us.

Farley, for his part, recalls a distinct lack of preparation. "I didn't really have a plan," he shamelessly admits. "I had been thinking about taking her out to dinner and doing all of that stuff - she'd been giving me such a hard time for a few months. I was just over it and wanted to get it out of the way." No doubt many a groom-to-be has felt the same way - doesn't mean they don't have love in their hearts; it's just a guy thing. Anyhow, with the engagement finally official, the next step was... to wait a year? Yes, it turns out that Farley's job with the railroad system requires much advanced notice for vacations. But on the bright side, that gave the couple time to

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ponder their options for a memorable wedding ceremony and reception.

"Planning-wise, we actually ended up doing the opposite of what we started out looking into," Hobgood says. "Initially, we wanted a small wedding at an Airbnb in Bloomington with friends and family. We were going to make a weekend of it, go camping, etc." So what changed? Well, one day the couple were visiting Farley's best friend, Zac Willett - the matchmaker in this situation - out at his Henderson property overlooking a lake.

A light bulb suddenly went off. "Lance said, 'Why don't we just get married out here?,'" Hobgood recalls. "I said I didn't mind getting married in my hometown, but that was automatically going to make it a much larger wedding."

Turns out it made it a lot more fun, too. Or as Hobgood more pointedly

D R E S S : K AT E LY N ’ S A LT E R AT I O N S A N D D E S I G N FLOWERS: WIL DE H O R T I C U LT U R E ENGAGEMENT RING: G O L D M A N ’ S PA W N S H O P WEDDING RING: BRINKER’S JEWELERS GROOM'S WEDDING B A N D : M A N LY B A N D S S U I T: J C R E W TIE: DA ZI HAIR: SAR AH CALHOUN MAKEUP: DACIA DRE W NECKL ACE: HOUSE OF BLUES FOOD: BOKEH IN THE K ITCHEN E V V B A R : M O ’ S T R AV E L I N G MEDICINE SHOW

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describes it, "It was one hell of a party."

Achieving a party atmosphere wasn't hard, really. As owner/ operator of Mo's House, a popular bar in the Haynie's Corner Arts District of downtown Evansville, Hobgood knows a thing or two about running the show and making sure people have a good time. The fact that she and Farley chose Halloween weekend as the date for their wedding only amped things up - or loosened things up, really. "I liked the idea of it being a laidback wedding - and Halloween has always been fun, so we ended up with costumes for the guests and stuff," Hobgood says. As luck would have it, Mother Nature struck the day before, with sheets of rain eventually giving way to clear skies and decent temps for the ceremony. Good thing, too, because there was no back-up plan. Instead, the couple instructed guests to bring umbrellas just in case, though they did have a tent with heaters and space for the older guests to sit down. Come sundown, things got a little chilly, but with a big bonfire glowing and plenty of alcohol flowing, everyone stayed toasty.

So, after Willett - who reportedly got ordained online in a matter of minutes - married the happy couple and the two newlyweds danced to "This Must Be the Place" by the Talking Heads, the craziness began. "I literally said, 'Eat some sh*t - let's f*cking party,'" Hobgood laughs. Costumes worn by many of the increasingly-inebriated guests included a herd of chickens, Frankenstein, angels, gorillas, dragons and unicorns - so imagine the scene as everyone is running wild outside to the soundtrack of King's Highway, a killer bluegrass band, followed by a DJ pumping out the likes of Prince and other beat-heavy favorites. Then add to the mix

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"I liked the idea of it being a laidback wedding - and Halloween has always been fun, so we ended up with costumes for the guests and stuff."

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the sound of motorcycles revving all over the property (Willett is an ace rider) along with competitive cornhole and horseshoes being played in separate areas. "It felt like a festival - that's what we wanted it to be like," Hobgood says. "Everybody could do their own thing; you could eat what you wanted, when you wanted." And drink, drink, drink. Mo's Traveling Medicine Show - a full bar on wheels - was stationed in the middle of the woods along with the food trucks.

piece of advice: "If rain and weather can be a stress factor for you, I wouldn't recommend it unless you have a backup plan. Most importantly, find a place that is homey and that you feel comfortable in. And, uh, don't skimp on the porta-potties."

Of course, all good things must come to an end. If there's one major downside of an outdoor wedding - apart from weather mishaps - it's neighbors. "At some point, you have to shut things down - but we had our wedding at 3 p.m., so by 10 p.m. we needed to go to bed," Hobgood says as if reliving the exhaustion of such a fun-packed day. Reality hit hard the next morning in the form of a 7 a.m. cleanup ("It looked like a hurricane had hit the yard.") but all involved agree that not only was it worth it, they'd be up for hosting an annual event to honor the couple's Big Day. Well, Willett might not be so enthusiastic.

"My buddy is going to be picking up those little plastic drink straws 10 years from now," Farley chuckles.

For those considering planning an outdoor wedding, Hobgood has this

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | COVER STORY

on the cover

W E DDI NG AT K LU B H AUS 61

vendors VENUE: KLUBHAUS 61

TANISHA + JOE

ROMANTIC WEDDING AT KLUB HAUS 61

MAKEUP ARTIST: TAYLOR JEFFERS

HAIR ST YLIST: AMBER JO’S HEAD TO TOE CAKE ARTIST: CASEY HAND CATERER: KLUBHAUS 61 FLORIST: PRETT Y PETALS MUSICIAN/DJ: SPECTRUM SOUND BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: ELL A PARK BRIDAL GOWN BOUTIQUE: ELL A PARK BRIDAL GROOM BOUTIQUE: ELL A PARK BRIDAL VIDEOGRAPHER: TNY VIDEOGRAPHY OFFICIANT: EVAN NAVE RINGS: JARED

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The Town

of

n e w b u rg h r e n Ta l s

A l l r e n t a l s a r e A DA a c c e s s i bl e Fo r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n p l e a s e v i s i t o u r w e b s i t e a t w w w. n e w b u r g h - i n . g o v

Old lOck & dam

lOckmasteR cOttages

Rental Rates: $133.75 per day

Rental Rates: $218.40 per day

building no. 47

+ $100 Refundable Damage Deposit

Rental space • Accomodates 50-60 guests • 850 square feet of space • Fourteen (14) 6’ long tables • Ninety (90) metal folding chairs • Full Kitchen • Ice Machine • Backdoor access to the boat ramp

East & West

+ $100 Refundable Damage Deposit per cottage

$1,136.80 per week $1,015.00 per 7 day week + (7% sales tax) $50.75 (5% innkeeper’s tax) Dogs allowed in West Cottage additional $25 per day Rental space • 3 bedrooms - sleeps 8 (linens provided) • 2 full baths • Fully Stocked Kitchen

Rental Rates: $321.00 per day (in town residents) $401.25 per day (out of town residents) $200 Refundable Damage Deposit

pReseRvatiOn Hall

Rental space • Accommodates 125 Guests • 1900 square feet of space • 12 oval tables • 4 - 4’ & 4 - 8’ rectangle tables • 125 chairs • Caterers Kitchen

F O R A N Y Q U E S T I O N S C O N TA C T A N D R E A B A L B O N I AT 8 1 2 - 8 5 3 - 1 7 2 0 TRISTATEBRIDE.ME

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | ADVERTISEMENT

SOUTHERN INDIANA'S PREMIER EVENT DESTINATION Experience An Event Like No Other!

"We held our wedding reception there recently and it was absolutely perfect! Nathan and Tammy were so helpful during our planning process and answered any and all questions we had. All of our guests talked about how beautiful the venue was and the delicious food. Thank you so much for making our wedding unforgettable!"

- Kayla K. Review from Facebook

The new KlubHaus 61 is the perfect venue for wedding receptions, corporate events, holiday parties, and any other celebration.

With our many room layout options, we can accommodate intimate gatherings, large events, and everything in between. We want to make your event unforgettable and will work closely with you on every last detail. Customize the perfect menu with our chef to give your guests a truly one of a kind dining experience. Allow us to work with you to make your event perfect from start to finish!

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | ADVERTISEMENT

Cambridge Golf Course Banquet Room

C

perfect for your special day

ambridge Golf Course Banquet Room has a spectacular view overlooking the 18th hole of the Tom Liddy designed Championship Golf Course.

This elegant room is perfect for your special day. The banquet room can hold up to 350 people. Cambridge also has the Green Room that can accommodate 40 people and can be used for smaller parties, showers, or business meetings.

An onsite event coordinator will help you with all the details of planning your special day. Our staff will take care of setting up the room before you arrive and will do all of the cleanup at the

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end of the night. Cambridge also has a chef onsite. Different menus, hors d'oeuvres, snacks, and appetizers are available to meet the needs of your event. For those interested in having their wedding ceremony at Cambridge, there are two different locations available for this. First is the fountain area outside of the clubhouse which offers a spectacular setting for an outdoor wedding ceremony. For those looking for an elegant room for the ceremony, the banquet room can be used for an indoor wedding ceremony.

Cambridge can be a wonderful location for wedding receptions, anniversary

parties, rehearsal dinners, showers, class reunions, business meetings and many other events. We look forward to helping make your event perfect and a day you will not forget!

Cambridge Golf Course & Banquet Room is open to the public. For more info or to set up a time to tour the facility, call Cambridge at 812-868-1270 and ask to speak to Event Coordinator Chelsea Harwood or send an email to cambridgegcevents@outlook.com.

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | PLANNING

Decisions I

ndoor or Outdoor Wedding?

by Leslie Eades

H

ow do you decide if an indoor wedding or an outdoor wedding is best for you? First you have to ask yourself what are your must-haves, must-nots, and what vision do you want to achieve with your wedding? After these questions are answered you do research for options that fit within your budget while keeping in mind some backup plans will require non-refundable deposits. These costs sometimes outweigh the alternative of foregoing your only plan if you don’t have a backup. It’s imperative to also think of how you see yourself handling changes in plans and/or vision based upon circumstances outside of your control (ahem, weather).

Depending on the size of your wedding and how outdoor it will inherently be will help make your initial and backup plan decisions. For example, several “outdoor” venues in the area have indoor facilities that can be converted last minute into a fully indoor option. Tents are also a great option to have as an initial plan and especially a backup plan (tents require their own considerations, for example, walls, heaters, ground saturation).

Our team will always recommend having some kind of backup plan in the works if you’re planning an entire or

| CIT Y SOCIAL E VENTS

partial outdoor wedding for your ceremony and/or reception.

This is where it helps to have a professional on board.

What does our team do behind the scenes to aid in this process? We work with our clients to: •

•

• • • •

Develop a cost-effective backup plan, within budget, for ceremony and/or reception venue that still aligns with the overall vision of the wedding.

Ensure all deadlines for confirmation and/ or cancellation of backup plan services are met before additional costs are incurred.

Create timelines for the initial outdoor wedding plan and the backup plan.

Communicate both timelines and all relevant details to vendors prior to and after the backup plan deadline.

Execute the selected timeline according to plan.

Problem solve prior to and during the wedding we answer the calls, send the emails, and filter all questions to the client on an as-needed basis.

All of the deciding factors that come into play when deciding between an outdoor vs. indoor wedding must also take into consideration the story you wish to tell - the story you will remember from your wedding day. Whoever you have on your team to bring your vision to life, whether it’s family, friends, or a professional (recommended), try not to lose sight of why you’re there, regardless of the weather. Rain, afterall, is good luck (so they say), photographs very well, and provides the perfect opportunity to get swept away in the moment as that moment exists.

LESLIE EADES

City Social Events Owner / Lead Event Coordinator

Established in 2016, City Social is a company whose mission is to inspire and craft the human experience - together. Their team works with clients to create events capturing their personality and vision. They are storytellers, problem solvers, dreamers and doers. Conversation, laughter, and time spent with loved ones while professionals take care of the details behind the scenes—that is the City Social experience. www.citysocialevv.com Photo: Rachel Mathew Photography

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | ADVERTISEMENT

Your Perfect Day at the Owensboro Convention Center!

T HE

I D E A L

V EN U E

F O R

S

YO U R

W ED D IN G

A N D/O R

ay “I Do” to the view! Choose indoor options that include panoramic views of beautiful downtown Owensboro or have your ceremony outside on The Kentucky Legend® Pier over the scenic Owensboro riverfront.

for your guests with our custom catering menus – from healthy dishes to comfort foods and decadent desserts, we have selections sure to please the palate of every member of your group! A variety of bar options as well as served entrees or buffet style meals are also available.

Whether accommodating a small or large number of guests, enjoy the ease and convenience of our “one-stop shop” that includes in-house catering, decorating services, and more! Our expert event staff will assist you in planning Your Perfect Day down to the finest detail.

Plus, your out-of-town guests won’t have to go far to attend your ceremony and/or reception. The Owensboro Convention Center is adjacent to two downtown hotels with a third hotel to be built in the near future.

Create an exceptional dining experience

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R ECEP T I O N!

FOR MORE INFO, PLEASE VISIT OWENSBOROCENTER. COM/WEDDINGS/ OR CALL 270.687.8800 TO INQUIRE ABOUT AVAILABLE DATES, PRICING, AND TO ARRANGE A TOUR OF THE VENUE. THE OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER IS LOCATED AT 501 W. SECOND ST. IN OWENSBORO, KY.

For all of your wedding and reception needs, the OCC is the place to be!

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | ADVERTISEMENT

The Perfect Choice For Your Perfect Day!

C

ouples have been choosing Old National Events Plaza for over 15 years, making us Evansville’s premier full-service venue located in the heart of Evansville’s growing downtown. The Old National Events Plaza team of experienced professionals will help you enjoy planning the first day of the rest of your lives. Exceptional event coordination and quality catering services make Old National Events Plaza the affordable and effortless choice for weddings and receptions of all sizes.

WE MAKE IT EASY BY PROVIDING THE FOLLOWING SERVICES: • Event set up and break down • Complete in-house catering and bar service • In-house audio-visual and limited event rentals • Free parking and skywalk connection to the Double Tree by Hilton Event management staff works closely with many local wedding planners, DJ’s, photographers, florists, and event rental companies – so let us introduce you. We’ll help connect you with the right vendors to ensure your special day is one to remember.

Old National Events Plaza offers a contemporary design that is both neutral and elegant. A tour of our newly renovated Ballroom will showcase the grand ceiling heights, beautiful lighting options, and well-designed color concepts. Spacious pre-function areas are included with the Ballroom rental and make the entire second floor of our building your personal event space.

For more intimate gatherings, our newly renovated Locust and Walnut rooms offer a polished and inviting atmosphere. Host your wedding ceremony and reception at the Old National Events Plaza, where it’s easy to make our space your dream come true!

For more information about Old National Events Plaza, please call 812.435.5770 or visit www.oldnationaleventsplaza.com

SAVOR... Catering by SMG is proud to be the exclusive food service provider within The Old National Events Plaza. SMG Catering strives to be everything the event producer, corporate meeting planner or private party could ask for when it comes to full-service catering. For more information, contact our Catering Sales Manager.

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | ADVERTISEMENT

TIPS FOR BUYING A NEW HOME Courtesy of Catanese Realty Professionals

B

uying a new home - like being a newlywed - can be overwhelming. Because a home is one of the largest and most expensive investments you will ever make, it is important that you take your time finding your home. According to the National Association of Realtors, the average first time home buyer lives in a home between 3-5 years. Therefore, it is important to find a home that has great resale value.

FIND A REAL ESTATE AGENT. In today’s home buying market, homes have been selling A good agent will also open a conversation about appropriate mortgages for first-time home buyers, help you consider the cost of any required renovations, help you negotiate the home price and figure out which inspections are required. A great agent will help walk you through the process of buying a home – helping to eliminate confusion. The realtor will also have an arsenal of vendors that may be needed in the process: inspectors, contractors (handymen), lenders, pest control companies, HVAC companies, plumbers, electricians, etc.

quickly. It is important to have a preapproval from a lender to make your offer on the home that you are in love with before you make that offer. A seller will not look at an offer without the knowledge the buyer is a serious buyer.

Also, most sellers do not want someone to come through their home unless they are a serious buyer. Would you want random people strolling through your home – looking in closets and at your personal items – if they were not serious buyers?

FIND A LENDER THAT YOU TRUST.

Of course, you will want to know what kind of home you will be able to purchase. A lender can tell you not only the price point to look for, but what may be your monthly payments.

A great lender can help you through the financial details of the loan. He/She will help figure out which type of loan best suits your financial situation and possibly help build your credit.

CREATE A NEW HOME WISH LIST.

There are several home loan programs out there for home buyers with less money available to put down. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insures loans for new home purchases with as little as a 3.5 percent down payment, although the upper loan limit can be low in some areas of the country. There may be many other local programs for first time home buyers that can be as little as 0% down.

It is important to make a “Dream List” of items you would like in a home. However, your realtor can help put certain items in price perspective and give you an idea of what is realistic and what is a dream. Certain price points will not reflect luxury items such as granite counters and acreage. Remember, those are always items you can find in your next home in a few years.

Some great, realistic items to look for would be location, movein ready, storage, bedrooms and, of course – RESALE VALUE.

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"A GREAT AGENT WILL HELP WALK YOU THROUGH THE PROCESS OF BUYING A HOME – HELPING TO ELIMINATE CONFUSION."

]

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CHECKLIST

the

ULTIMATE WEDDING CHECKLIST

A guide to planning the perf ect wedding ( while keeping the bride sane )

The initial excitement of wearing a beautiful ring can turn into stressful to-do lists in order to put together a gorgeous wedding.

If you haven’t planned a party before, then a wedding can feel like an intimidating task. But when the event planning is broken up into a series of smaller and more manageable lists, it becomes less overwhelming and a fun process to enjoy with your fiancé and family!

IN THE CHECKLIST FIND COLOR SCHEMES AND DECOR INSPIRATION FOR YOUR BIG DAY

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This easy to follow checklist offers a countdown to your big day, listing the most important duties to tackle before you tie the knot.

Quickie engagement? Simply bump up your timeline and take care of the most important details first. This ultimate guide will make sure your wedding goes off without a hitch. Happy planning! Make sure to check out the tips and tools within the checklist too!

CHECK OUT THE HELPFUL TIPS AND USE THE EXTRA SPACE TO JOT DOWN NOTES

OPPOSITE THE CHECKLIST, FIND PHOTOS FROM LOCAL WEDDINGS AROUND THE TRI-STATE

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the ULTIMATE WEDDING CHECKLIST

Y O U R W E D D I N G P L A N N I N G G U I D E

12 months before

Discuss your initial budget. Make sure you are both on the same page.

Draw up your guest list.

Consider hiring a wedding planner.

Decide on a wedding date.

Book ceremony and reception venues.

TIP: TRY NOT TO STRESS. ( EVEN WHEN IT SEEMS IMPOSSIBLE.)

Remember why you are getting married, and try to truly make it be an event about (and for) the both of you.

Trust your vendors and photographer.

Book your officiant.

Research vendors.

11 months before Ask chosen friends and family members to be your attendants.

Reserve a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests.

Hire a wedding photographer and videographer.

Begin making bridal appointments to find your perfect dress.

If the catering is not provided in house, begin researching caterers.

10 months before

Set up your wedding registry or donation account online if you prefer.

Finalize guest list with families.

Begin planning the honeymoon.

Get music samples from bands or start researching DJs.

EXTRA NOTES:

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SARA & MAX TANGLEWOOD Photography by: Patton Photography

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the ULTIMATE WEDDING CHECKLIST

Y O U R W E D D I N G P L A N N I N G G U I D E

9 months before Order your wedding dress.

Look for bridesmaid dresses.

Hire a band or DJ. Book caterer if you still need one.

Hire a graphic designer or company to print your invitations and save the date cards.

8 months before

Schedule an engagement photo session in time to have photos taken by month 6.

Order bridesmaid dresses.

Begin planning the rehearsal dinner.

Meet with your florist to start ideas.

Consider attire options for the groom and groomsmen.

TIP: ACCEPT THAT YOU CAN’T PLEASE EVERYONE. You cannot make everyone happy, and trying to accommodate others will just make the whole process more daunting.

7 months before

Hire your hair and makeup artist for the wedding day.

Discuss bridal shower with mothers and maid of honor.

Select music for the ceremony and reception. Hire an AV team to oversee sound for the ceremony.

Book all transportation.

EXTRA NOTES:

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LEANNE & BRAD NEW HARMONY Photography by: Jordan Barclay Photography

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the ULTIMATE WEDDING CHECKLIST

Y O U R W E D D I N G P L A N N I N G G U I D E

6 months before Send out save the dates.

Send engagement announcements to the newspaper.

Meet with your baker to choose the wedding cake and groom’s cake.

Talk with maid of honor and best man about bachelor/bachelorette parties.

TIP: KISS YOUR HUSBAND AS MANY TIMES AS YOU CAN.

All the stress you had before the big day...just let it go. It is what it is, and stressing will only dampen your big day.

5 months before

Finalize details with the florist and place the order.

Order all decorations not covered by the florist, including rental items.

Order napkins and other reception necessities not covered by the caterer.

Shop for bride and groom gifts to give each other the morning of the wedding.

Continue to fill your gift registry.

4 months before

Purchase your wedding day accessories including shoes, jewelry etc.

Make an appointment at your nail salon to begin prepping nails.

Finalize your honeymoon plans, make all the reservations and order tickets.

Finalize rehearsal dinner plans.

EXTRA NOTES:

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KRISTEN & JORDAN HAMMER RIDGE Photography by: Bret & Brandie Photography

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the ULTIMATE WEDDING CHECKLIST

Y O U R W E D D I N G P L A N N I N G G U I D E

3 months before Order your wedding bands.

Purchase gifts for all of the attendants.

Plan the seating arrangements if you are doing assigned seating.

Address invitations or send them to a calligrapher.

Order wedding programs.

TIP: DON’T SWEAT THE LITTLE THINGS.

Plan ahead, don’t procrastinate, don’t sweat the little things, only do things that you can afford, try not to do anything wedding related two weeks before the wedding.

Finalize wedding favors if you are doing them.

2 months before Mail the wedding invitations.

Write or decide on wedding vows.

Choose readings for the ceremony.

Finalize the shot list for the photographer.

Attend dance lessons with your fiancé if you plan to dance to impress.

Prepare all the necessary forms for name and address changes.

1 month before Pick up wedding rings.

Have all of the final fittings for your bridal gown.

Have your bridal portrait taken.

Send announcement info into the newspaper.

EXTRA NOTES:

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Contact wedding guests who have not responded to RSVPs.

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ASHLEIGH & AUSTIN ROLLING HILLS COUNTRY CLUB Photography by: Shillawna Ruffner

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Y O U R W E D D I N G P L A N N I N G G U I D E

2 weeks before Get your marriage license.

Make sure you have all clothes for before, after and during the reception.

Reconfirm honeymoon reservations.

the ULTIMATE WEDDING CHECKLIST

Touch base with all caterers and vendors for the big day.

TIP: BE A TEAM THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE PROCESS.

Create a wedding day schedule to hand out at the rehearsal.

Pick up the wedding dress if it is still being altered.

No matter how well-intentioned, friends and family will undoubtedly lend advice, opinions, and even objections to your decisions. Focus on what matters most and go with your heart.

1 week before

Provide caterer with a final guest count.

Appoint someone that is not in the wedding to handle last minute tasks.

Try on everything you plan to wear the day of the wedding and organize it.

Go for a final manicure.

Pack for the honeymoon.

Pick up programs, menus and all other day-of paper materials from the printer.

The day before Prepare gratuity and final payment envelopes for vendors.

Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.

RELAX! Enjoy the company of friends and family members.

Give gifts to the wedding party, your fiancĂŠ and family members.

EXTRA NOTES:

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Get plenty of rest.

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MORE OF W E C E L E B R AT E

WEDDINGS

AND EVERY OCCASION! Tropicana Evansville offers full-service event planning, catering, decor and staging services. We specialize in weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthday celebrations, anniversaries, fashion shows, fundraisers, charity galas, tasting, cocktail parties, corporate meetings and entertainment events.

The Riverfront Event Center on the Ohio River provides a unique and breathtaking setting for any occasion.

Tropicana Evansville’s talented consultants handle every nuance of your event, from start to finish, so you can enjoy your event with your guests.

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | SHOPPING

bridal party

GIFT GUIDE

They’ve helped you plan and have been there through it all. Now it’s time to give back with a thoughtful, creative gift that shows how much you really appreciate everyone that helped make your big day possible.

GROOMSMEN

IT ’S Y O U R T URN T O “P OP ” T HE ?

B RIDA L PA RT Y P RO P O SAL S !

CHECK OUT THESE FUN WAYS TO ASK YOUR BRIDESMAIDS!

WRITE A NOTE

Looking to save a little money?

A heartfelt note will do the trick. Slip in a favorite snapshot of you both to make it even more special.

PERSONALIZED TOILETRY BAG $18.99 - confettimomma.com

NECK TIES DIY - evermine.com

GROOMSMAN CIGAR BOX $6.90 - etsy.com

BRIDESMAIDS

PERSONALIZED WINE BOTTLE

Apply a custom label on her favorite bottle of wine.

Nothing says “celebrate with me” more than a bottle of booze!

PLAN A SPA DAY

Plan a fun day out getting pampered. For a fun suprise, give them a personalized robe or eye mask.

GIVE A TASTY TREAT CUSTOMIZABLE GIFT BOX $60+ - teakandtwine.com

BRIDESMAID ROBE $39.64 - LeRoseGifts Etsy.com

CUSTOM MUGS $14.00 - foxblossom.com

Have a local bakery make a special dessert asking them to be a big part of your day. Thoughtful and delicious.

PARENTS MAKE THEM SPARKLE

Ask them with jewelry. It doesn’t have to be expensive. You can even opt to make them an old fashioned friendship bracelet.

PHOTO ALBUM From $55 - shutterfly.com.

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PERSONALIZED HANDKERCHIEF $16.98 - theKnot.com

EVENT TICKETS $$$ - ticketmaster.com

Also check out these local vendors for more unique gifts!

JOELLE + CO Busy Beedz Design House of Bluez

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | SHOPPING

beautiful

INVITATIONS MINTED.COM

It's easy to forget about wedding invitations in the midst of planning everything else for your big day. However, an invitation is one of the first things a guest will see before the wedding, so you'll want to make a great first impression! Whether you hire a designer for custom stationery or pick from a predesigned assortment online, the options for finding the perfect invite are endless. Here you will find a variety of tips, timelines and a few local vendors to get you started on your invitation journey.

STATIONERY TIMELINE 6-12 MONTHS BEFORE Confirm all wedding details Finalize guest list Order your wedding stationery

4-6 MONTHS BEFORE Mail save the dates CHARMCAT.COM

2-4 MONTHS BEFORE Give envelopes to calligrapher, if professionally addressing invitations Mail invitations

2 WEEKS BEFORE Give escort and place cards to calligrapher, if professionally printing

1 WEEK BEFORE Hand off place cards, table cards, menus, favors, etc. to reception site/caterer

DAY BEFORE Give ceremony programs to ceremony location or officiant at rehearsal.

SHOP LOCAL

a few of our favorite local designers

BAILEY MARIE STUDIO

STEADFAST MEDIA

HOWL CREATIVE CO.

MYSTIC HAND

howlcreativeco.com

steadfast.media

PAPERCULTURE.COM

baileymariestudio.com

mystichandpress.com

INVITATION ETIQUETTE QUESTIONS ANSWERED WHEN SHOULD WE SEND THEM OUT?

HOW TO POLITELY SAY “NO KIDS” AT THE WEDDING?

SHOULD WE GIVE EVERY GUEST A “PLUS-ONE?”

WHERE DO WE INCLUDE OUR REGISTRY INFO?

Plan to send them out eight to ten weeks before the big day. this gives guests enough time to make travel plans and clear their schedules if they live out of town.

If you are sending out Save-theDate cards, they should go out six to eight months in advance.

Make sure to address the invitations by guest name, and not “and guest.” If the RSVP comes back with children’s names, make sure to give them a call and explain that the wedding is for adults only and you hope that they will still be able to make it to celebrate.

No, it is perfectly acceptable to invite friends or family members solo if they are not married or in a serious relationship. Make sure the invitation only has their name on it, and they will understand that bringing a “plus-one” is not appropriate.

It is considered impolite to put where you are registered on the actual wedding inviation. It can come across as though you are asking for gifts. Most people will put this information on a wedding website or on a separate card within their invitation.

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | NEWLYWED COOKING

NEWLYWED COOKING with Chef Amanda Hancock Amanda Hancock is the former owner of Vecchio's Italian Market in Newburgh and a published author.

M

y husband Dan and I are coming up on 15 years of marriage. We met online back when you still had to wait for dial-up to connect and it was risky to find someone. There weren’t cheesy dating sites, there was Yahoo!, so that’s what we used. I had just moved to the area for a job and a friend dared me to put up a profile to find where people went to hang out. I kept getting “matched” with Dan, but he was too old and short. Little did I know that he was getting matched with me, but I was too tall and young! After a few weeks of chatting - which was basically him stalking me - I finally gave in and gave him my phone number. He claimed that he was a lawyer; I figured that he couldn’t be a felon, so I agreed on a date.

It was terrible! He showed up in a shirt that he had been wearing since high school, jeans that he had obviously patched himself (with a patch

that didn’t even match) and shoes that had holes in them! What kind of lawyer was this?

Obviously not a very good one if he couldn’t afford good clothes for a first date with a catch like me! Not surprisingly, he took me to a sub-par restaurant that shall remain nameless, ordered fajitas, and then proceeded to eat from my plate! To redeem himself, he took me to the casino to teach me how to play blackjack. After showing me how to play a few hands, I took over and ended up making $120, which paid off the whole date.

At that point, he was sure that he wanted to keep me but I’m still working on him - and probably will always be.

That’s why I’m the chef, and yes, he IS actually a lawyer!

"AT THAT POINT, HE WAS SURE THAT HE WANTED TO KEEP ME BUT I’M STILL WORKING ON HIM - AND PROBABLY WILL ALWAYS BE."

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Here are a couple of easy recipes that a new couple, or even a couple that has been together as long as us - or even longer - can do together! They can be made vegetarian or you can add meat to them if you choose. I’m going to start with a simple pizza dough recipe. Let your minds run wild and go crazy with the toppings. This batch

Pizza Dough INGREDIENTS: 3 cups cool water 1 TBS yeast 3 TBS sugar 3 TBS olive oil 6-7 cups bread flour 1 TBS salt

DIRECTIONS: In a standard mixer with a dough hook, combine the water, yeast, and sugar.

Let it rest for a few minutes to “bloom.”

Add the 3 TBS olive oil.

Gradually add the flour and mix between each addition.

ALWAYS ADD SALT LAST when working with yeast!!

will make 8 balls of dough 8 oz. in weight

If you're not going to use the dough right away, divide it out onto a parchment lined 9 x 13-inch baking pan, cover it loosely with greased plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to prepare the pizza or flatbread, take it out of the fridge and let it come up to room temperature. Pat each dough onto a different parchment-lined 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Make sure to space the dough at least an inch apart from each other because they will rise. Bake them at 400F for 25 minutes or until it’s done through and starting to brown on top.

This is where it gets fun - time for toppings!

The possibilities are seemingly endless.

Red sauces, white sauces, even just simple garlic and oil. Lately, I have heard some

controversy over pineapple on pizza, or mushrooms and bacon. Who are we to judge?

Here are my suggestions: Try some olive oil and fresh garlic, and then bake this dough for approximately 10 minutes. Take it out and then top it with fresh spinach, prosciutto, and gently crack an egg into the middle, slide into the oven and bake for another 5 minutes until the egg is set. Finish with Parmesan cheese. For a red sauce pizza, start with a good cheese, such as a sharp provolone and a fresh mozzarella. Instead of pepperoni, try something more exotic like Genoa or a Bianco sausage. These are Italian sausages that you can find at Fresh Thyme. With a white sauce, add some shredded chicken, black olives, spinach, sundried tomatoes and Feta cheese.

Simple Greek Salad INGREDIENTS: 1 head Romaine lettuce, separated into leaves and spun dry 1 clove garlic, cut into half 1 bunch dill, chopped ½ to 1 bunch dill scallions, both white and green parts, trimmed and finely chopped 1-2 lemons, cut in half Salt and freshly ground pepper ½ cup Kalamata olives 4-6 oz. Feta cheese, drained and thinly sliced

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DIRECTIONS: Cut the Romaine leaves crosswise into ½ inch strips.

Rub a salad bowl with the cut garlic. Add the Romaine, dill and scallions. Just before serving, squeeze the lemon juice to taste over the salad and pour the olive oil on top. Season the salad generously and toss well to mix. Garnish the salad with the olives and Feta and serve.

If you want to add meat, it would be great with chicken or even lamb.

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | ADVERTISEMENT

catering extravagance with Marla & Doug

from Just Rennie's

W

ith 16 very successful years in the catering business behind them, Just Rennie's is the ideal choice for your special event - from weddings to corporate meetings and everything in between.

Marla Rennie started Just Rennie's in 2003. Her husband Doug is an amazing chef who received his education and training at the prestigious New England Culinary Institute in Montpelier, Vermont and has experience working in high-end restaurants in Houston and Indianapolis. He left his position as the executive chef at the Victoria National Golf Club in Newburgh to help Marla's business grow.

Since then, the couple has been dedicated to providing a fine-dining experience to all of their clients. Their personal promise is to give everyone the highest quality food while paying attention to the smallest of details.

Whether you think your guests would enjoy Scottish Salmon Nicoise, Pecan Encrusted Pork Tenderloin or Chicken Picatta with Marinated Artichokes & Lemon Sauce - just to name a few of the amazing entrees available - Just Rennie's has an elegant menu that you can customize to your tastes. You'll have a beautiful, classic meal for your big day. And to get your party started right, Just Rennie's offers a cater-out bar menu at competitive prices including the option of hiring servers and bartenders.

If you're looking for an intimate setting for your rehearsal dinner, then look no further than Just Rennie's Tuscan Wine Room which seats up to 48 - perfect for intimate,

special occasions. Rest assured you will have the best service focused solely on you and your party.

Known for their wonderful catering options, Just Rennie's was recently awarded "Best Caterer" by both the Courier & Press and Evansville Living Magazine. You simply can't go wrong when you choose them, considering that the tri-state has voted their food and services the best of the best.

One of two exclusive caterers to the Old Post Office downtown - a unique and historic place for wedding receptions with accommodations that can seat up to 275 guests - Just Rennie's also offers catering for corporate and holiday events, weddings and more at City View, The Dream Car Museum, Children's Museum and The Discovery Lodge.

Of course, in addition to catering, Just Rennie's is known throughout the tri-state for their incredible homemade cookies. Marla runs the Just Rennie's Cookie Co., offering up delectable treats like Chocolate Chunk, Oatmeal Raisin, Cookies & Cream and Snickerdoodle. Best of all, gift boxes containing 2, 6, 12, 18 or 24 cookies can be shipped to all 50 states - even to military bases overseas at domestic rates. Send a taste of home!

Just Rennie's Catering is located at 100 SE 4th St. in downtown Evansville / 812-4018098. For more info, visit justrennies.com.

"THEIR PERSONAL PROMISE IS TO GIVE EVERYONE THE HIGHEST QUALITY FOOD"

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | ADVERTISEMENT

Congratulations!

you’re getting married How to get the Wedding Cake of your Dreams without busting your budget

Did you know that the national average cost for a wedding is over $35,00? That can be a scary number for a bride on a budget. When you are planning the wedding of your dreams, it can seem like a daunting task to make your vision a reality without deep pockets.

Comparatively speaking, the cake is one of the least costly details. Here are a few hints to help make your wedding cake the beautiful centerpiece of your dream reception without breaking the bank.

• First, you will need a realistic guest count to estimate how large of a cake you will want to order.

• Next, you will want to set a budget of how much you would like to spend on your wedding cake. Is this amount firm or is the budget flexible with a little wiggle room?

There are several ways to stay within a realistic budget.

• For a large wedding, consider a smaller tiered cake and have sheet cakes in the kitchen for the caterers to cut and serve for you. This is one of the most economical options.

• Cupcakes are a wonderful, whimsical way to serve your guests cake. They are usually less expensive than a tiered cake and the guests can help themselves, saving you a cake-cutting fee.

Remember that extra details on your cake can add up.

• A cake decorated in buttercream frosting will be less expensive than a cake covered in fondant.

• Gum paste flowers and embellishments, hand painted elements, or gold leaf will also increase the cost of your cake. If there is a design you just love, consider having

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that element on just one tier of the cake to help cut costs.

A simple cake adorned with fresh flowers and a custom cake top from Etsy can be beautiful and elegant.

• Choose flowers that are in season and just use them as an accent or a pop of color.

• Your florist can help you pick out flowers that will complement your cake and wedding decor.

• A cake stand can add height to your wedding cake. This can be a silver or gold stand from the bakery or from the rental store you are using for other wedding items.

• If you like the rustic vibe, a slab of wood can be the base for your cake. Use a leveler to ensure it's even. A tiered cake needs to be on a level surface for stability.

There are several resources to find someone to make your cake for the big day.

• Bridal shows can be a great way to meet the bakers, sample their products and ask them questions.

• Local bridal magazines are also a wonderful reference; you can hold on to the magazine and refer back to as needed.

Online wedding sites are helpful as well.

Simply put, be sure to choose a baker that has a great reputation for creating beautiful, structurally-sound cakes and can provide pictures of their own work and testimonies from past clients.

Award-winning Piece of Cake bakery has been making beautiful wedding cakes for discriminating brides for 20 years. Let us help make the wedding cake of your dreams a reality and make your wedding day the best day ever!

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS

Exotic

getaways

1. TAHITI The largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, tourists flock to Tahiti for its eye-popping mountains, lagoons and waterfalls, once-in-alifetime jungle tours, snorkeling, whale

3. FIJI An island country in Melanesia known as the "Soft Coral Capital of the World," Fiji offers world class surfing, amazing food, tropical golf courses and breathtaking scenery, plus a fascinating history just waiting to be discovered.

watching and gourmet Italian cuisine.

4. MONTENEGRO A country in Southeastern Europe on the Adriatic

2. BALI A province of Indonesia, this popular island is rich with culture, boasting world-renowned art, modern dance and film. Its beautiful, clear waters feature an incredible array of sea life, making it a prime tourist destination.

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Sea, Montenegro is full of irresistible charm with quaint medieval towns to explore, hiking in the Durmitor National Park, yachting on the open waters and the best beaches, period.

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With exclusive offers and exceptional value, Ambassador Travel has the expertise to make your wedding and honeymoon travel dreams come true.

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS

Honeymoon

hotspots 1. GREECE A country located in Southern and Southeast Europe, Greece is populated with the most hospitable people in the world. In addition, this home to the gyro and other delicious culinary creations features epic architecture,

3. COSTA RICA A scenic country in Central America, Costa Rica is dotted with majestic forests and volcanoes that draw tourists in from all over the world. It also offers fun water activities and adventures, plus beautiful beaches and extraordinary wildlife.

sun-drenched beaches and much more.

4. MEXICO A country in the southern portion of North America,

2. ICEL AND

Mexico is a bargain and the

A Nordic island country in the North

weather is ideal - from the

Atlantic, Iceland is situated on top of

beaches, to the deserts and

the world, literally, so the sightseeing is

jungle. Come for the delicious

mind-boggling - Northern Lights, black

cuisine, vibrant music scene

beaches, glaciers, mountains, volcanoes,

and fascinating culture.

whale watching and more. Truly amazing.

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | ADVERTISEMENT

Travel Smart

Your next adventure is just a phone call away C O S TA R I C A

T

ravel Smart has been the tri-state's gateway to amazing destination weddings and unforgettable honeymoons for 28 years. With decades of experience in the travel industry, their team of expert consultants can guide you in just the right direction to ensure that you and the love of your life have the time of your life! From cruises to all-inclusive resorts and everything in between, Travel Smart has you covered; everyone involved truly enjoys passing on their knowledge and working with clients to secure the very best deal. So don't stress - the Travel Smart team will take you through every step of the process and they're always just a call or email away if you have questions. Simply put, travel is their passion!

ICEL AND

Book a destination wedding or honeymoon to the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Greece, Hawaii, Iceland, Ireland, Italy or Mexico - just some of the incredible getaways that Travel Smart offers.

So, if you're ready for the travel experience of a lifetime then don't wait another day - call or visit the consultants at Travel Smart and start planning your big adventure now!

For more info, visit choosetravelsmart.com or call 812-867-0022 / 800676-2780. Travel Smart is located at 13657 Hwy 41 North in Evansville.

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | DESTINATION WEDDINGS

Destination

weddings 1. ASPEN, COLORADO

A winter wonderland awaits the bride and groom here - during the cold months, anyway. But all year-round, the surroundings are spectacular with gorgeous mountains and valleys serving

3. NANTUCKET, MASSACHUSETTS For the low-key couple who likes life at a slower pace, Nantucket offers an intimate environment for a wedding with its cobblestoned streets and New England charm. Summertime lends itself perfectly to a beach ceremony on the ocean.

as backdrop to the city's rustic charm.

4. SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA A different sort of west coast vibe, San Francisco

2. L AS VEGAS, NEVADA

has mild temps and no end

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of scenery with its rolling

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From 24/7 gambling to big name

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concerts, Las Vegas keeps it real. And

Culturally, it's a goldmine

the hotels are out of this world.

of art, music and more.

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | WEDDING PLANNING

LAST FLING before the ring!

Vegas is wonderful, but Bachelorette Parties can come in all shapes and sizes. Each brideto-be has different interests, so grab your girls and plan a party she will enjoy. Here are a few ideas to get the party planning started.

HONOR

Invite the mother of the bride to this one!

WINE TASTING

Find a vineyard close to home, or make plans to travel for a wine-filled weekend away. Rent a limo and plan out your stops for a fun day of sipping with the girls!

beMAID the best of Here are a few tips to make sure your BFF gets hitched without a glitch!

CAMPING

With a bunch of ladies, this may be more like "glamping." Pack up and head out for a weekend off the grid. Those campfire stories will definitely tighten your girl squad bond.

BE THE BRIDE'S GO-TO GAL Reassure her that you're there for the fun moments but also the stressful ones, too.

TRY TO ATTEND EVERYTHING Make yourself available to attend pre-wedding activities, especially bridal showers and bachelorette parties!

KEEP TRACK OF GIFTS When the bride opens her gifts, you can jot down who got her what so she can write her thankyou notes later on.

SPA DAY

Schedule a group session with your favorite spa and have all the ladies join in maximum relaxation. The bride isnt the only one that needs some pampering!

SLEEPOVER

Have a throwback sleepover, just like you did in gradeschool. Bring all your cheezy chick-flicks plus popcorn and wine. Plot out a master-plan to "TP" the best man's house.

Turn this one into a couples party!

MUSIC FESTIVAL

Does the bride love music? There are so many music festivals throught out the year not far from the tri-state. Take a trip to Pilgrimage in Nashville, TN or Forecastle in Louisville, KY!

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COOKING CLASS

Find a local cooking class and register for a private party. Not only will you learn something useful, but you won't even have to do the dishes when it's over!

KEEP EVERYONE ON TRACK Help to make sure that everything is running smoothly and on time, including hair and make up appointments for the bridal party.

HOLD THE BOUQUET Hold on to the bride's bouquet during the ceremony. While you're at it, fluff that dress so her pictures turn out fab!

MAKE SURE THE BRIDE EATS AND DRINKS With all the hustle and bustle, it will be easy to skip eating or get dehydrated. Make sure to check in and offer snacks to keep her going through the night.

BE A PERSONAL RESTROOM ATTENDANT That dress may be beautiful, but she'll definitely need a helping hand when lifting it to use the restroom!

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TRI-STATE BRIDE | ADVERTISEMENT

PLANNING THE PERFECT BACHELORETTE PARTY!

presented by Eexotica

I

t’s her last party as a single woman. It’s your responsibility to make it a night to remember. Where do you start?

With her (and Boudoir Noir’s Exotica), of course!

You don’t want your bride to plan the bachelorette party, but you do want her insights. Does she want a night out in the club, a weekend away or something low key at someone’s home? After the destination has been decided, next set your date, a theme and budget. Make sure that you ask for help from the other bridesmaids - planning this party doesn’t have to put a strain on your life or wallet! The party guest list should also come from the bride and you’ll want to send ‘Save the Dates’ out two-months in advance and the invitation one-month out. On to the fun stuff…

Whether you’re staying in or hitting the town, make sure your bride stands out from the crowd. A sparkly tiara, bride sash and veil will do the trick. Don’t leave out the bridal party and guests - try cute badges, buttons or broaches for each attendee.

Don’t forget to add some crazy fun games like Bride-to-Be Flip, Sip Truth or Dare, the Bride-to-Be Ultimate Roll Dice game or take it on the road with the Bachelorette’s Bar Challenge card game!

If staying in, make the most of your space with banners, balloons, napkins & plates. And don’t forget those drinking straws and Jello-shot/ice cube trays, cookie cutters, candy and cake molds (of that certain male anatomy)!

And while the party doesn’t have to be about presents, the bride would surely love a few sexy pieces of lingerie or a surprise bag full of goodies to kick her honeymoon off!

Boudoir Noir’s Exotica is your Bachelorette Headquarters - here to make party planning easy. Stop in today at 4605 Washington Ave., or shop online at BoudoirNoir.com.

Here’s to a night she’ll remember…

e t t e r o l e h c a !

B s r e t r a u q d a e H 4605 Washington Ave 812-401-7399

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turning the

Best Day of Your Life

into the

Best Night

Romance and Fantasy Superstore 4605 Washington Ave Evansville, IN 47714

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C

CHOOSE DOUBLETREE TO CELEBRATE THE HAPPIEST DAY OF YOUR LIFE! .

When you plan your wedding with DoubleTree by Hilton™ Evansville Hotel, you can expect personalized attention and superior service from your first meeting with our Wedding Planning Specialist. Our professional wedding planners and on-site catering team will work with you to ensure your wedding is a complete success. We would be honored to help you with one of life’s most important and exciting events.

AT A GLANCE Total Event Space: 12,000 SF Largest On-site Function Room: 6,400 SF Total Guest Rooms: 241 On-site Parking Garage: 565 spaces

Dream Wedding Sold Here BOOK YOUR CUSTOMIZED APPOINTMENT TODAY WITH OUR WEDDING SPECIALIST Wade Cartwright | 812.205.2471 | wade.cartwright@hilton.com

601 WALNUT STREET, EVANSVILLE, IN 47708 | 812-423-5002 | EVANSVILLEDOUBLETREEHOTEL.COM