Central Texas Engagements April 2021

FREE!

April 2021

Engagements CENTRAL

Texas

Culinary Creations

Up Close with Central Texas’ Best Caterers See page 12

www.TexasEngagements.com

The Hall at River Square Center

WACO’S PREMIER EVENT SPACE

Dressed up or dressed down, The Hall at River Square Center will transform your event into something truly extraordinary.

N Specializing in N REHEARSAL DINNERS & RECEPTIONS

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TO BOOK YOUR EVENT: 254.870.5017

WWW.THEHALLWACO.COM 217 MARY AVE., WACO, TX

www.TexasEngagements.com

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254.709.5245 | www.lovedmemories.com

Photo by Shely Taylor Photography Hair & Makeup by La Bella Salon & Beauty Lounge

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Contents On the Cover

12 Culinary Creations George’s Restaurant & Catering Photos by Shelly Taylor Photography

Photo by Hannah Haston

CARLO H. BANDA

254-285-8707 www.wosproductions.com

Let Us Be A Part of Your Special Day! Wedding Rates From per night

. Complimentary suite for bride/groom . Onsite event coordinator to handle your group needs . Transportation to/from venue . Banquet Room Available

Feature 7 Spotlight on Bloomingals Floral Boutique

By Rachel Kistner

16 Choosing a Caterer

By Rachel Kistner

Submit your real wedding at www.TexasEngagements.com 254.773.8400

4301 S. General Bruce Dr., Temple

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Publisher: Michele Berger Creative Director: Jerri Denson Office Manager: Melissa Talbert Contributing Writer: Rachel Kistner Community Director: Brit Frank Advertising Information: Michele Berger (254)723-3696 Next Deadline April 5th For May & June Issues Contact us Phone: (254)848-8308 office@bergerpublishing.com We Find the Perfect Gown to Make You Feel Beautiful

Schedule your appointment online today!

@joannsbridal

254-826-5715 | www.joannsbridal.com I-35 access road, Exit 353, West, TX

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Central Texas EngagementsTM 2021. All copy, photographs and information contained herein is protected by copyright and not to be reproduced. Publisher reserves the right to decline any advertisements.

Floral Boutique

By Rachel Kistner Photos by Lauren Crose Photography

Kimberley Seesing, owner of Bloomingals, surrounded herself with all things floral long before she opened shop on Austin Avenue. After 20 years of professional floral designing in Houston, it was only natural for Kimberley to open a new shop after moving to the Waco area. A friend and longtime customer gave Kimberley the idea for the shop’s catchy name, and Bloomingals opened its doors 18 years ago in March.

Bloomingals is best known for its eclectic, non-traditional style, and they purchase flowers from all over the world to be able to produce that style. Kimberley tells us that she really enjoys working on designs that incorporate lots of nature and greenery, but her inventory and creativity allow her to design just about anything a bride can dream up.

Kimberley takes pride in knowing her brides on a personal level before creating their floral designs. She asks her brides what they don’t like, in order to confidently create a design that she knows they will love. “Most brides don’t know exactly what they want, but they know what they don’t want,” Kimberley explains. Bloomingals understands the importance of reading a bride properly—a skill that is undoubtedly reflected in their beautiful floral pieces.

Bloomingals knows beauty is in the details, whether it be a small ceremony or an elaborate affair. “You want it to all tell a story and you want it all to flow together,” Kimberley says, and their elegant designs certainly accomplish that with their professional attention to detail.

The shop may be located in downtown Waco, but a bride can have Bloomingals beautify her wedding wherever it may be—they have served brides all over Texas, and even some out of state.

If you are interested in learning more about Bloomingals and their unique floral designs, visit their Facebook page @Bloomingals-Floral-Boutique, or call Kimberley at 254-296-2772.

www.TexasEngagements.com

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AA Sugar’d Up Specialty Cakes & Desserts

Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography

@allsugardup

254-644-9492 | 6320 N. 19th St., Waco, TX

www.laurencrosephotography.com

The Perfect Venue for your Special Event Weddings + Parties + Showers + Corporate Events

Exclusive Shopping for Unique Items Gifts Gifts + + Jewelry Jewelry + + Home Home Decor Decor + + Clothing Clothing

317 W. 3rd Street Clifton, Texas www.marketatthemillclifton.com 254-715-8160 254-744-4517 Photo by @nbarrettphotography

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Historic Charm with Today’s Amenities

Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography

Weddings | Receptions | Showers Anniversaries | Birthdays | Corporate Events 254-772-8890 811 Lake Air Dr Waco, TX

www.actionrentalwaco.com

254-772-8890 622 County Rd. 3565, China Spring, TX

www.fossilcreekretreat.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Share Your Local Wedding

WITH FRIENDS & FAMILY IN

Engagements C entral T exas

Photo by www.ShellyTaylorPhotography.net

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RSVP

EVENT EQUIPMENT RENTAL 426 Towne Oaks Dr., Waco, Texas

Tents | Tables Chairs | Linens | Lighting China | Décor Photo by Tori Matthews Photography

254-772-5667

www.rsvpwacotx.com Photo by Lauren Crose Photography

BLANEK’S

CUSTOM CATERING

We are a local family-owned catering company that specializes in creating your dream wedding meal.

Weddings Rehearsal Dinners Special Events Corporate Events www.blaneks.com

Floral Boutique www.bloomingalsfloralboutique.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Culinary Creations

By Rachel Kistner

brings loved ones together like delicious food. Your family and friends are in Nothing attendance to help you celebrate your big day, and what’s a celebration without some

food and drink? From cocktail hour snacks to the main course, flavor and presentation are important for setting the tone of your reception.

The infinite variety of food options out there can be both a blessing and a burden when trying to decide on the catering for your event. Luckily, there are many vendors in the Central Texas area that know just what to cook up that will satisfy your guests.

Take a look at some of our favorite dishes prepared by local food vendors—all of which are available as appetizing options for your event.

Blanek's Custom Catering | 254-753-5444 | www.Blaneks.com Your wedding day is centered around love, and Blanek’s Custom Catering knows how to reflect that love in every aspect of their service. The staff care deeply about the events they serve, constantly striving to provide value to their customers by maintaining a high level of quality in both services and cuisine. Their chefs use only the freshest ingredients and are considerate of customers with dietary restrictions. Pictured is their beef tenderloin with red wine sauce, paired with mashed potatoes and green beans—a classic favorite. Blanek’s can cover an event from hors d’oeuvres to dessert with their custom wedding cakes. Their unique specialty dishes make for a beautiful display at your celebration, and their extensive menu ensures everyone will be satisfied. If you can dream it, Blanek’s will make it!

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Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography

George's Restaurant & Catering | Waco 254-753-1421 | Hewitt 254-420-2060 | www.GeorgesWaco.com With George’s Catering, you can get a mouth-watering meal without worrying about the planning process. Having been in the business for more than a quarter-century, they can meet and exceed your expectations, whether it’s a large, formal ceremony or an intimate eloping. The George’s Catering team covers everything from selecting a menu to colors, staffing, and rentals. If their top-quality service doesn’t sell you, their delicious plate options will. Their fajitas are a customer favorite, and just one of the many tasty dishes offered by their skilled chefs. The cuisine at George’s is a favorite around Central Texas and is sure to be just as popular at your wedding or celebratory event!

Photo by Loved Memories Photography

Lone Star Tavern & Steakhouse Catering | 254-799-0027 | www.LoneStarSteakhouseWaco.com Lone Star Tavern Steakhouse takes pride in expertly catering events of all sizes. As Waco’s oldest steakhouse, Lone Star has plenty of experience in making and serving top quality food. Their customizable options are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. They added custom catering to their offerings in 2012 and have been serving satisfied brides ever since. You’ll find plenty of creative dishes on their menu, including their best seller, Cream Cheese Chicken—a unique flair that you won’t find in a typical chicken dinner. With catering from Lone Star Tavern Steakhouse, you can be sure your guests are satisfied with both the delicious food and the excellent service you receive.

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Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography

The Hall at River Square Center - Diamondback's Catering | 254-870-5017 | www.TheHallWaco.com The highlight of your celebration at The Hall at DiamondBack’s is, without question, their magnificent cuisine. Their executive chef has hand-selected multiple offerings that ensure your guests will revel in a truly exceptional dining experience. For those occasions when lighter fare is more appropriate, they are pleased to offer smaller, shareable options for your guests. Whether you’re feeding a large group or just a few close friends and family, The Hall has you covered.

The Hall's composed dinners include three courses with price points ranging for every bride's budget. From mouth-watering fish to signature steaks, their menu offers options that reflect the flavors of DiamondBack's with the beautiful backdrop of your decor and style.

The Olive Branch | 254-757-0885 | www.OliveBranchWaco.com The Olive Branch is a wonderful option for brides that love excellent food and are looking for full-service caterers.

They offer full-service bartending, a bakery, and buffet style, seated, and served or individually packaged catering. This one-stop-shop also offers wedding cakes so you can check several items off your list at once. Owners Leah Stewart and Michael Carney are onsite during all catered events, making sure everything runs smoothly for your big day. They cater to all types of dietary restrictions including gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan. All of their delicious menu items are made fresh in-house, using only locally sourced ingredients. The Olive Branch can professionally provide for any size wedding with their full-service and full, enticing menu.

Rio Brazos Cuisine | 254-235-9136 | www.RioBrazosCatering.com With Rio Brazos Cuisine serving your event, you can guarantee that no one will go hungry. Their creative and delicious plates, often raved about by foodies, are chef-prepared and can be customized to fit any bride’s budget and taste. All of the food prepared by Rio Brazos Cuisine is made from the freshest, high-quality ingredients. Pictured is one of their most popular creations: the grazing table; it can be a feature of the cocktail hour, or a staple of the entire reception meal. Rio Brazos Cuisine offers buffet, family style, or seated dinner service, and they provide servers, chefs, rentals, and clean up services for their catered events. If your special occasion calls for upscale, full-service catering, Rio Brazos Cuisine should be on your list of desired vendors!

Photo by Loved Memories Photography

Triple B's Smokehouse | 254-848-8138 Triple B’s Smokehouse knows how to give your wedding reception that classic Texas flavor. Their brisket and sausage may be their most popular dishes, but that is just a fraction of their tasty offerings. At Triple B’s, you’re not confined to unremarkable plates. This Smokehouse is all about pleasing their customers, so they provide a variety of food options to choose from without limits. They consider brides to be their number one priority and prove this by going above and beyond to deliver exactly what each couple wants, regardless of budget. Triple B’s even offers desserts to accompany the wedding cake and satisfy that sweet tooth. Their peach cobbler is a customer favorite—and pairs perfectly with a great slice of barbeque!

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21 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Caterer

By Rachel Kistner

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fter choosing a date and venue, the next major decision in the wedding planning process is choosing what vendors will help you create your dream wedding. Today we’re focusing on catering—because what’s a party without some good food?

When choosing a caterer, it’s important to already have an idea of what you want and need from them.

How much food do you need to feed your guests? Do you want a waitstaff to serve them, or will they serve themselves? Is your proposed budget reasonable for the services you want and for the number of guests you’ll have? These are all good questions to ask yourself—and anyone else involved in the planning process—before choosing a catering service.

Once you have a clear idea in mind, it’s time to find a caterer that can make that idea come to life—and the “right” caterer is easier to find than you think! Just remember, don’t make any decisions without asking plenty of questions first.

Don’t know what questions to ask? Check out these suggestions for what to ask caterers that you are considering for your wedding. Their answers will help you determine if they are a good fit for your event.

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2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Are you familiar with/have you previously catered at the venue I have chosen?

What precautions are you taking to keep guests safe during COVID-19?

Do you only offer preset menus, or can I create a custom menu for our event?

Do you specialize in certain food types or event themes?

Do you offer a food tasting before being hired?

Will you provide details such as plates, napkins, silverware, etc.? If so, do these items cost extra?

Do you require an on-site kitchen? If the venue does not have one, do you charge extra for bringing your own equipment?

8. Do you have any pictures of previous food setups so I can get an idea of the style?

9. What décor do you provide (if any) for appetizer stations or buffet tables?

10. Do you charge a cake-cutting fee?

11. Do you do wedding cakes? If so, is this included in any packages you offer?

12. Do you offer décor extras, like tablecloths, chair coverings, etc.?

13. How do you handle any leftover food at the end of the event?

14. Are you licensed to serve alcohol?

15. Who provides the alcohol? Can we provide our own for a separate price?

16. How many bartenders does your service include?

17. How long will alcohol be served?

18. If my event runs over the expected time, what are your overtime fees?

19. Do you charge extra for setting up and breaking down the event?

20. When are all fees and payments due?

21. Are there any fees not included in the package that I should be aware of?

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Photo by Loved Memories Photography

Airbrush Makeup Flawless, natural and timeless beauty for your wedding day Lauren Owen Call or text: 254-715-8434

www.shesallaboutthatface.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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254.284.0070 | www.DeerfieldVenue.com

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Let us design all of your wedding floral needs

254.752.3351

1500 Primrose Dr., Waco, TX 76706 www.wolfe-florist-waco.com

Photo by Micaela Grace

Rustic Acres

Photography by Legacy Imaging

Weekend rentals (Friday - Sunday at noon) 5500 sq. ft. facility holds over 300 people Tables & chairs included in rental fee Indoor & outdoor ceremony site options

8513 Fox Road, Belton, TX www.RusticAcresEventCenter.com RusticAcresEventCenter@hotmail.com

Wedding planning & floral design including FREE decor rentals Kathy Thorman

254.723.3354 | BeforeIdoWaco@gmail.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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WWW.TEXASENGAGEMENTS.COM

INSPIRATION 24/7

The go-to resource for daily inspiration for your dream day. Showcasing styled shoots, local weddings, engagements and central Texas’ most talented wedding & event planning professionals.

LOCAL VENDORS

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LOCAL WEDDINGS

INFINITE IDEAS

Just $500 to Save Your Date!

Offer expires 4/30/2021

Catering

locally-owned and operated by Josh Hale and Scott Studer AC/Heat Indoor Outdoor Cedar Chapel Day & Weekend Packages Covered Patio with Stage & Grill On-Site Guest House with Bridal Suite Photo by Loved Memories Photography Call for an appointment: 254-315-8874

12485 Wortham Bend Rd., Waco

Events Large & Small Bartending Services Large Customizable Menu Experienced Professionals Free Consultation

www.billysbarnwaco.com

254-799-0027

4713 Bellmead Dr., Waco, TX www.LoneStarSteakhouseWaco.com

Classical & Spanish guitar from the 1400s to present for your special occasion Weddings | Receptions Special Events exumguitarstudio@gmail.com

254-776-8188

www.FrankExum.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Located south of Hillcrest Hospital on I-35 service road

on pti 0 e c e 0 + Rt $1,9 g din a ed rting W Sta

Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography

The Chapel at Caliber Oak Salado, TX

weddings + receptions www.caliberoak.com

254.405.4268 | www.CaseyNystrom.com CaseyNystromPhotography@gmail.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography

Weddings Rehearsal Dinners Reunions Parties

Included in rental:

Caterer’s Kitchen Tables & Chiavari Chairs Unlimited Nugget Ice Packages Available 2500 Washington Ave., Waco, TX For reservations call: 254-498-1015 / 254-498-3770 www.castleheightsbijoux.com

Smile Down

www.RioBrazosCatering.com

254-235-9136 / 254-424-2416

e Aisle!

Josh M. Knowles, D.D.S., M.S.D.

Specialist: Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Diplomate American Board of Orthodontics Dr. Knowles is your board-certified orthodontist practicing in the greater Temple area.

*2017 & 2018 Invisalign Top Provider

www.smileattheworld.com 24

254-773-8028 2027 S. 61st, St. Ste. 111, Temple, TX

www.ShellyTaylorPhotography.net

Legacy Limousines of Waco Quality Services at Affordable Prices

Weddings | Proms | Nights Out on the Town Out-of-Town Trips Wedding Party & Guest Shuttles

254-253-0198

www.TexasEngagements.com

www.LLofWaco.com

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Wedding Planning Checklist ∙∙∙12 months out∙∙∙ Visit www.texasengagements.com and start planning your wedding Sign-up for our wedding planning e-news Establish a budget Set a date (have a 2nd choice just in case) Choose and reserve a venue for both ceremony and reception Get connected with a wedding planner Book a photographer Select an officiant for the ceremony Find vendors and get all details in writing: Caterers, Cake Designers, Floral Designers, Music/DJ’s, Stationers Write up a guest list Choose and notify your wedding party Consider creating a wedding website Start planning your honeymoon Shop for and order dress *Bridesmaids should also get a dress at this time.

∙∙∙6-9 months out∙∙∙ Decide on a theme *colors, décor, flowers Plan the reception Set up bridal registries and update your wedding website Shop for and purchase rings Schedule tasting with your cake designer Finalize guest list/send out save-the-dates Reserve transportation *limo, guest shuttle, etc.

Arrange accommodations for out-of-town guests

∙∙∙3-6 months out∙∙∙ Decide on invitation wording and order invitations Make honeymoon plans/reservations *don’t forget passports Arrange rehearsal dinner Decide on and reserve men’s apparel Hair and makeup trials

∙∙∙1-3 months out∙∙∙ Send invitations (at least 8 weeks in advance) Finalize and order flowers, décor, and cake Choose/reserve hair and makeup artist(s) Finalize rehearsal and reception menu Dress fitting *Encourage bridesmaids to get a fitting as well.

Confirm details with all vendors Order gifts for wedding party

∙∙∙1-3 weeks out∙∙∙ Obtain marriage license Prepare and thank you cards for all gifts already received Pick up rings Confirm groom’s attire is ready Relax before the big day!

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E

Let us cater your rehearsal dinner.

Photo by Lauren Crose Photography

254-757-0885 www.olivebranchwaco.com 215 S. 2nd Street, Waco, TX

Make an appointment today!

Hand Lettering | Chalkboard Art Floral Design | Creative Projects

www.TexasEngagements.com

Photo by Loved Memories Photography

254-855-3294 hortonhousestudio@gmail.com

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Budget-Friendly Coordinator Fresh & Silk Florals Décor Rentals Photo by Taylor Nicole Photography

Denise Wall Babcock, Owner 254-214-3625 TheWholeBridalAffair@gmail.com

1226 Washington Ave.

Mirror Me Photobooth & DJ Service DJ Karaoke Kim & DJ Famous John High-Quality Digital Prints | Fun Props & Red Carpet Weddings | Quinceañeras | Corporate & Special Events

KandSEntertainment.com

254.495.1997

Waco, TX

Venues with Value Affordable Rentals Unique to Waco

254-753-4900 ext. 216 www.missionwaco.org

Harpist Enchanting Salado & All of Bell County Wedding Ceremonies Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Parties & Special Events

254-699-9050

www.centexharpist.com

610 Fit Training Studio

Empowering you to BE STRONG through faith & fitness

Aerobics | Personal Training Small Group Personal Training Nutrition Coaching

254-644-1280 28

www.610FIT.com

EVENTS

361.813.1488 Info@bennetevents.com | www.bennetevents.com Photo by Ashley Munn Photography

Ivory Bell Floral Revyn Marburger {Owner} Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography

254-366-2620

@weddingsbyshauna | www.weddingsbyshauna.com

254.541.8702

revyn@ivorybellfloral.com

Simply a Taste of Sweetness

Catering Private Events Weddings 10600 N. River Crossing Woodway, TX

254-848-8138 Hours: Mon. - Sat. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Kathy Tucker, Owner

254-644-4413

By Appointment Only

www.kakesbykat.com info@kakesbykat.com

893 E. FM 93, Temple, TX www.celebrationsshoppe.com 254-314-2415

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Index By Categories Beauty

La Bella Salon & Beauty Lounge..................................4 Radiate Joy.................................................................. 28 She’s All About That Face........................................... 17

Bridal & Formal Wear

Georgio’s..................................................................... 27 JoAnn’s Bridal................................................................6 Pat’s Gowns................................................................. 23

Cakes & Desserts

All Sugar’d Up................................................................8 Kakes by Kat............................................................... 29 The Olive Branch...........................................................6

Caterers

Blanek’s Custom Catering.......................................... 11 George’s Restaurant & Catering................................ 17 Lone Star Tavern & Steakhouse Catering................. 21 Rio Brazos Cuisine Custom Catering......................... 24 The Olive Branch......................................................... 27 Triple B’s Smokehouse............................................... 29

Fitness

610 Fit ��...................................................................... 28

Floral Design

Before I Do................................................................... 19 Bloomingals................................................................. 11 Hewitt Florist............................................................... 25 Horton House Studio.................................................. 27 Ivory Bell Floral............................................................ 29 The Whole Bridal Affair............................................... 28 Wolfe Florist................................................................. 19

Gifts

Crop – Paper – Scissors............................................. 29 Market at the Mill..........................................................8 Scribbles...................................................................... 28

Hand Lettering & Calligraphy

Horton House Studio.................................................. 27

Hotel Accommodations / Lodging

Billy’s Barn................................................................... 21 Residence Inn by Marriott – Temple............................5

Invitations / Stationery

CMDesigns....................................................................9 Crop – Paper – Scissors............................................. 29 Scribbles ..................................................................... 28

Karaoke

K & S Entertainment................................................... 28

Lighting

K & S Entertainment................................................... 28 Wall of Sound Productions...........................................5

Limousines & Chauffeur Services

Legacy Limousines of Waco....................................... 25

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Music/DJ’s

Frank Exum Solo Guitarist.......................................... 21 Gretchen Williams/Harpist......................................... 28 K & S Entertainment................................................... 28 The Salado Trio............................................................ 29 Wall of Sound Productions...........................................5

Orthodontics

Smile at the World...................................................... 24

Photo Booths

K & S Entertainment................................................... 28 Wall of Sound Productions...........................................5

Photographers

Casey Nystrom Photography...................................... 23 Lauren Crose Photography...........................................8 Loved Memories Photography & Videography............4 Shelly Taylor Photography........................................... 25

Services

Heart O’ Texas Federal Credit Union.......................... 28

Venues

Billy’s Barn................................................................... 21 Carleen Bright Arboretum.............................................3 Castle Heights Bijoux.................................................. 24 Deerfield Estates......................................................... 18 Fossil Creek Retreat......................................................9 George’s Restaurant & Catering................................ 17 Market at the Mill..........................................................8 Parrie Haynes Ranch....................................................6 Residence Inn by Marriott – Temple............................5 Rustic Acres Event Center.......................................... 19 Tenroc Ranch.............................................................. 32 The Chapel at Caliber Oaks........................................ 23 The Chapel at Meyer Center....................................... 28 The Clifton House........................................................ 21 The Exchange Event Center....................................... 17 The Hall at River Square Center...................................2 The Olive Branch...........................................................6 Triple B’s Smokehouse............................................... 29

Wedding & Event Planners

ARC Events....................................................................9 Before I Do................................................................... 19 Bennet Events............................................................. 29 Celebrations Wedding Planning & Event Rentals..... 29 CMDesigns....................................................................9 The Whole Bridal Affair............................................... 28 Weddings by Shauna.................................................. 29

Wedding Supply & Equipment Rentals

ARC Events....................................................................9 Before I Do................................................................... 19 Celebrations Wedding Planning & Event Rentals..... 29 Pendley Party Productions & Rentals........................ 31 The Whole Bridal Affair............................................... 28 RSVP Party Rentals..................................................... 11 Wall of Sound Productions...........................................5

Pendley Party Productions

Weddings to Swoon Over

254.772.2757

www.PendleyParty.comw w w . T e x a s E n g a g e m e n t s . c o m

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Tenroc Ranch

Photos by Trey Tucker Media

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512-947-9218

|

Salado, TX

|

www.Tenroc.com