Bridal Bliss Magazine Vol.4

BRIDALBLISS BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2018 • VOL4

Lexington, Kentucky Vol. 4 • WEDDING PUBLICATION • FREE

Lindsay Whiting Photography

Aesthetiica Photography

FLOWERS + COORDINATING

Chris Cornwell Photographer

859-494-2209 | www.dougsmithdesigns.com | info@dougsmithdesigns.com

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Shannon Christie Bridal Bliss Classic

Sarah Burton Simply Love Studio

Winter was full of lots of engagements and planning, but spring and summer have arrived! That means it’s officially wedding season in Kentucky!

We love that every relationship is so unique, it brings us many special weddings.

We’ve added some personal information from the couples to to this issue and think you’re going to love learning more specifics about the weddings.

The two most important things you talk about at the beginning of the wedding planning is the guest count and budget. We wanted to share what couples right here in Central Kentucky are spending and how many guests they’re inviting, plus how many actually show up and more!

The number one piece of advice we get from couples is to remember it’s your day, there are no rules, do what feels right. Wear a custom black wedding gown, let your bridesmaids pick their own dresses and drape a venue in blue draping.

Weddings have no rules. We couldn’t agree more.

Creative Interns

ON THE COVER: Photo: Seriously Sabrina Photography Venue: Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa

WANT TO SEE YOUR BIG DAY IN

BRIDALBLISS? Jillian Jones

Andrea Paczkowski

Bridal Bliss Magazine Volume 4, Summer 2018. Published semi-annually by Bridal Bliss Classic, LLC. P.O. Box 235, Georgetown, IN 47122. Copyright © 2018. All rights reserved. Contents may not be reprinted without written permission. Bridal Bliss is a registered trademark of Bridal Bliss Classic, LLC. All Blissful Weddings are provided by photographers with contractual option and ownership as granted by those in photographs. All Bridal Advice is provided by those deemed expert professionals in their field of work. Due to submission from all creative contributors, all work is considered credible.

Bridal Bliss Classic, LLC is not responsible for errors or omissions. It is the policy of Bridal Bliss Magazine to only publish the names of Vendors

VISIT OUR WEBSITE BRIDALBLISSMAGAZINE.COM FOR SUBMISSION FORMS. PHOTOS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER. WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICS!

who offer their services in a professional capacity. Vendors who cannot be located with a website or other online search options will not be printed for publication. Our focus is on local weddings in Lexington, vendors whose primary location is outside of the Lexington geographical area will not be printed for publication. Bridal Bliss Magazine reserves the right to alter or omit professional listings for the sake of publication. Bridal Bliss is not responsible for professional or photo credit omitted by the submitting expert for content or advertising purposes.

All inquires can be sent to: Bridal Bliss Classic, LLC. Attn: Magazine. P.O. Box 235, Georgetown, IN 47122. 859-457-0824. Letters submitted to the editor will be considered for publication. By submitting a letter, you grant Bridal Bliss Magazine the right to edit for clarity and publication rights.

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Wedding Bliss 8 26 30 40 46 50 58 60 62 68 74 80 88 94 98 108 114 122 BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 6

Hannah • Aaron Kristen • Drew Jaclyn • Stephen Christine • Justin Davina • David Rebecca • Chris Brianna • Chris Lesley • Cody Brandy • Joe Caroline • Jay Kristina • Andy Kourtni • Sean Benjamin • Dean Sarah • Michael Suzanne • Joshua Jade • Jon Allison • Tim Kate • Guy

Bridal Advice 36 44 54 56 67 72 86 106 112 120

Top 10 Reasons Hiring a Planner Is Worth It Flawless Factor Signature Drinks Dance Floor Wraps Custom Wedding Dresses The Biggest Piece of the Pie Photo Booths Bring the Party to Weddings Why Are Wedding Venues So Expensive?

Transcend Wedding Stress with Wellness Health Coaching

Central Kentucky Venue Map 102

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The Carrick House DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hilton Lexington / Downtown Malone’s Prime Events & Receptions Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa The Thouroughbred Center West Sixth Farm Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill The Barn at Springhouse Gardens Warrenwood Manor The Ashley Inn Evan’s Orchard Historic Boone Tavern Hotel and Restaurant Ashford Acres Inn Copper Fox Event Center Smokey Valley Chapel

Special Features 18 28 38 57 79 127

#BridalBlissBling Proposal Story Pre-Wedding Festivites The Kentucky Castle Red River Gorge Wedding Barn Volume 3 Launch Party

Photo Credit: Wes Brown Photography BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 7

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All the Little Details ENGAGEMENT: 6 Months BUDGET: $40,000 STARTING GUEST COUNT: 350 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 210 FIRST LOOK?: Yes! FIRST DANCEC SONG?: “I Will Follow You” - Tolouse HASHTAG: #boersma2be PROPOSAL: Aaron actually proposed twice! The first time he didn’t have a ring yet so we kept it a secret until we could make it official a month later.

CHOOSING A VENUE: I wanted a venue that had southern charm. When we looked at the Marriott I loved the weeping willow trees on the golf course. The hotel was great to work with and they made things so easy for us. Plus, our out of town guests could be all in one place for everything.

THOUGHTS: Wedding planning lasts a minute, a marriage lasts forever!

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Seriously Sabrina Photography CEREMONY VENUE: St. Michael the Archangel Episcopal Church RECEPTION VENUE: Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa TUXEDOS: Geno’s Formal Affair CATERER: Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa CAKE: Martine’s Pastries STATIONERY: Simply Done Invites FLORALS: Great Expectations KY RENTALS: Bryant’s Rent-All HAIR: Cassie Campbell MAKEUP: Annamaria Corea TROLLEY: Miller Transportation HONEYMOON TRAVEL AGENT: Avant Travel HOTEL ROOM BLOCK: Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa PHOTO BOOTH: Picture Perfect Photo Booth REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: Shakespeare and Co. BRIDAL SHOWER LOCATION: Greentree Tearoom REGISTRY: Macy’s WEDDING DAY JEWELRY: Miss Priss ALTERATIONS: The Needle’s Eye Alterations

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Heather R. Calhoun

Tiffany Broughton

Kayla Kelley

BRIDAL BLISS Bling Submit a photo of your ring using #BridalBlissBling so we can feature it on our Instagram page and in upcoming publications! @bridalblissmagazine Amy Stallings

Rhea Starns

Tricia Leon

Ashely Newcomb

Tasha Hooper

Madison Combs

Madison Wagner

Amanda Dennison

T H E D AY Y O U ’ V E A LW AY S DREAMED OF The Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa offers six distinctive and luxurious locations to set the stage for your wedding and reception.

With three indoor and three outdoor venues, each area holds the romanticism of the South and the charm of this classic hotel.

ASK ABOUT OUR NEW OUTDOOR CEREMONY LOCATION FOR YOUR PERFECT DAY!

G R I F F I N G AT E M A R R I OT T R E S O R T & S P A 1 8 0 0 N E W TO W N P I K E , L E X I N GTO N , K Y 4 0 5 1 1 T 8 5 9 . 2 3 1 . 5 1 0 0 w w w . f a c e b o o k . co m / g r i f f i n g a t e l e x G r i f f i n G a t e M a r r i o t t We d d i n g s . co m

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 8.5 Months STARTING GUEST COUNT: 150 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 130 FIRST LOOK: Yes! FIRST DANCE SONG: “From The Ground Up” - Dan & Shay HASHTAG: #KristenandDrewsayIdo FAVORITE PART OF PLANNING: Dress shopping!

CHOOSING A VENUE: We wanted something intimate and special, so we decided on his family farm, White Haven Fields!

MOST IMPORTANT VENDOR: Photographers! I will always be able to go back and look at my photos!

ADVICE: Have fun with everything!

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Kevin and Anna Photography CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: White Haven Fields WEDDING DRESS: The White Dress of Lexington MEN’S ATTIRE: Men’s Wearhouse WEDDING RESOURCE CENTER: Simply Love Studio CATERER: Sonny’s BBQ DJ: Agency Entertainment FLORALS: Hoe ‘n Hope Garden Club RENTALS: Purdon’s Rental & Sales HAIR: Dawn Dixon MAKEUP: Brittany Moses REGISTRY: Macy’s and Bed Bath & Beyond LIGHTING: Purdon’s Rental & Sales ALTERATIONS: The Needle’s Eye Alterations

We are a husband and wife wedding photography team that adores capturing love stories because we know what it means to be in love. Let us tell your wedding day love story!

- Kevin & Anna

• CONTACT US • info@kevinandannaweddings.com 859-576-5075

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Danielle & Sladyn Stephanie Hilen, Local Artist | Photographer

Sladyn and I met at freshman orientation at UK and actually didn’t speak again until we were formally introduced (set up) through a mutual friend 1 year later. I was immediately attracted to Sladyn’s goofy personality and Jesus loving heart. We started dating August 1, 2014 and haven’t looked back since! We were total college sweethearts! Sladyn has pursued me relentlessly for 3 ½ years and on December 16, 2017 he decided to take the next step and ask me to be his wife.

We had talked about marriage many times because we had been together for quite a while. We knew without a doubt we wanted to spend our lives together but timing was something I tried not to be too involved in. One thing you need to know about Sladyn is he LOVES surprises. If Sladyn ever had a chance to make anything a surprise, he did it! That summer we talked about the possibility of an engagement happening before 2018 so I was super excited! My parents had gotten engaged on Christmas Eve and so did my sister, so obviously I’m thinking December 24th is go time.

The weeks leading up to the proposal Sladyn kept telling me that an engagement just wasn’t on the horizon and he was so sorry (playing some serious reverse psychology on me). Little did I know, he was in Texas visiting his mother and my sister asking for permission and talking strategy about how he was going to

I immediately started interrogating Sean and didn’t get any information out of him. At 10:00, Sean left and Haley Barnette, the sweetest makeup artist, walks in my door with a bag full of makeup, a letter and one red rose. Haley starts doing my makeup and also doesn’t give me any information about why I’m getting a makeover with letters and roses, etc. Of course I wanted to believe I was getting engaged, but it couldn’t be today (the day of his surprise party!). I assumed it was a Christmas present, or a pampering for a date night, which also BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 28

pop the question. After getting all the blessings and making his rounds to our families, he decided on a date. While Sladyn was in Texas he discovered an invitation for his “supposed to be” surprise graduation party. We were planning this party for the Saturday of his graduation weekend. I was so excited to keep this secret from him because I knew how much he’d love it, when in reality, he hijacked my party and turned it into an engagement party instead. Everyone was on board and I was left in the dark still trying to plan a graduation party.

Sladyn is very close with my sister and I really wanted Samantha to come to his party, and she kept telling me no, “I can’t make it Danielle, I’ll be there after Christmas”. While I was busy planning his party, he was busy planning our engagement. I suspected nothing.

On the morning of December 16th I woke up with full intentions of being productive and getting his party all set up. I was getting ready to head to the dog park before running errands when I called our best friend Sean (also Sladyn’s roommate) to see if he wanted to come with me.

Sean walked in my house 15 minutes later with a Starbucks latte, a letter, and one red rose. The letter read “Don’t bother getting ready today, just relax and your next surprise will be here at 10, Love Sladyn”.

made me panic because he had go to his surprise party that night!

I decided to trust in his process and just let the day unfold. Haley gave me the next letter after she glammed me up. It read something about my next surprise arriving very soon and that I needed to get dressed. After Haley left and I got dressed but still hadn’t done my hair. The next thing I knew, Sladyn’s sister arrived. She hurried me out the door and took me to my favorite brunch restaurant. We brunched and had mimosas. When the waitress brought the check she

presented me with another letter and one red rose. The letter told me my next surprise was at 12:15 and I couldn’t be late!

His sister took me to The Dry Art Bar for my next appointment. At this point I’m just having the best day ever and thinking I’m going to look so good for the party tonight.

My hairdresser says to me, “Oh what a sweet boyfriend getting you all these surprises for Christmas!”

Of course everyone at the salon was in on it too. Sladyn had visited them that morning and filled everyone in on his plan. Near the end of my ap-

pointment my sister Samantha, who lives in Texas, walked in the door. I was SO confused, excited, nervous and couldn’t understand why she was there. We hugged and cried because I knew what was happening at this point.

A couple weeks before this, Samantha had sent me pictures of herself in 2 dresses, a blue one and a red one. She asked me to pick which one she should wear to her anniversary photo shoot with her husband. I told her red because it was the most beautiful dress I had ever seen! In the sa-

lon she showed up with a letter, a box and one red rose. In the box was the red dress, for me. I put it on and read my letter in front of everyone in the salon “The dress is red, the state is blue, now it’s time for me to see you. Love, Sladyn”.

Samantha took me to the place Sladyn and I always went to have our meaningful talks and make big decisions. We pulled up to his childhood neighborhood where he stood down by the pond. I walked down to meet him in front of a table filled with red roses and pictures of us. He pulled out his guitar and sang me a song full of our favorite memories and ended the song with a proposal. All along he had a hidden photographer there to document the best day of my life, to this point!

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 14 Months STARTING BUDGET: $25,000 ENDING BUDGET: $31,000 STARTING GUEST COUNT: 150 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 220 FIRST LOOK: Yes! FIRST DANCE SONG: “October: Written in the Stars” – Tim Myers HASHTAG: #jaclynandstephen2018 HOW MANY DRESS SHOPS DID YOU TRY ON DRESSES AT? 4

PROPOSAL: While in college I really enjoyed my astronomy classes, so it didn’t seem weird when Stephen asked me on a stargazing date. We went to a park and laid out a blanket in the middle of the field to look for constellations. Before I could point out he first one, Stephen pulled out a ring box and asked me!

CHOOSING A VENUE: When we heard Limestone Hall would be opening around the time of our wedding we jumped on it! Stephen has a history degree and I loved the idea of the ceremony and reception in one location.

ADVICE: Hire a day of coordinator, pick a great photographer and get your DIYs done early!

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Bourbon and

HOTEL ROOM BLOCK: Hilton

Brides Kentucky Wedding

Lexington/Downtown and 21c

Photography

Museum Hotel Lexington

CEREMONY & RECEPTION

REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION:

VENUE: Limestone Hall

Saul Good Restaurant & Pub

WEDDING DRESS:

Downtown

Twirl Lexington

BRIDAL EVENTS ATTENDED:

WEDDING RESOURCE CENTER:

Bridal Bliss Classic and Vacation

Simply Love Studio

Bridal School

DAY-OF COORDINATOR:

REGISTRY: Bed Bath & Beyond

Allow Me Events

RINGS: Kay Jewelers

CATERER: Mr. Kabab

ALTERATIONS: Sassy Stitches

STATIONERY: Designs by Kayla

BARTENDING SERVICE:

FLORALS:

Amendment 21 Event

Carol Lynn Originals & Events

Bartending

HAIR: The Stylist Lauren

DANCE LESSONS:

MAKEUP: Caroline Lee Makeup

Arthur Murray Dance Studio

HONEYMOON TRAVEL AGENT: Trips to Cherish

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Top 10 Reasons Hiring A Planner Is Worth It times comes preferred rates or special pricing. Vendors who work together often will sometimes provide preferred pricing to client referrals.

This pricing can be passed on to you, but wouldn’t be available without the industry connection.

can make this happen

Kaelyn Query

LexEffect Event Planning + Management Whether you’ve hired a full service planner, a month of coordinator or day-of help, having a professional involved in organizing the logistics of your big weekend is crucial. Yes, your Aunt Sally has agreed to help and she’s organized, so it won’t be a problem…. Right? Below are 10 reasons hiring a professional is important.

1. BUDGET! Hiring a professional in the beginning stages of your planning means this person can help steer your budget so you get the most bang for your buck. You have a $20,000 budget but you are in LOVE with a certain venue.

It costs $7500 just to rent. You need to bring in your own tables, chairs and linens (bringing your total to ~ $10,500). They have an exclusive caterer who has a food and beverage minimum of $5000 - oh, and you have already sent save the dates to 300 people. A planner can help you find a venue with similar style and feel, but one that is more accommodating to your budget and other needs.

2. R eferrals When working with professional planners, chances are they can refer and recommend other vendors to help with your special day. They know these vendors and their quality of work, their offerings, their price point – you are getting qualified leads for trusted vendors versus a quick Google search hoping for the best.

3. B etter R ates With those qualified leads someBRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 36

in a dress and heels and you have more hairspray in your hair than you did at prom. The wire in your flowers is popping out and where do you stand once you get up front? What do you do with your hands? And when do you come back down the aisle?! Your planner or coordinator is there to make everyone comfortable with the flow, where to stand, how to walk, how to hold their hands, and more.

8. Y ou want the big day to run smoothly , and a planner

Love The Renauds Photography

4.V endor S election Each vendor offers different services. Just because two catering quotes say “beverage station”, does not mean they both are providing the same thing. Some have stations with tea, lemonade, infused water, cups, ice, scoop, etc – and some are providing water in dispensers with cups to the side. You need to compare apples to apples, and your planner or coordinator can help with that. They can help navigate the industry jargon and be sure you’re getting exactly what you are expecting.

5. M issing P ieces Closer to date, your planner or coordinator can help review contracts to make sure there aren’t any missing pieces. If you have one provider for bar services and a different provider for food services, who is responsible for taking out the trash?

Who clears the tables? And who helps with those services once the caterer leaves? Your planner will catch that and can eliminate issues in advance.

6. B ringing it together You’ve planned it all out in your head: the colors, the style, the décor. You probably have 2376 Pinterest boards. But do all your inspiration photos match? Do they go together and make sense? Your planner can help bring all these pieces together, and make sure you don’t show up to your reception room looking like a Hobby Lobby store exploded.

7. C omfort and direction You’re walking down an aisle with 150+ people staring at you, and you’re

They talk to your vendors in advance of the day and they know what questions to ask. They can spot a problem a mile away, and they can troubleshoot issues before they become big problems. We are all humans, so even with the best pre-planning sometimes things still happen. But having a professional on site means they will catch it quickly and probably fix it before anyone noticed.

9. B eing a buffer This is your day. And while some individuals who are helping pay for it do get some say, you and your spouse-to-be should be the focus.

A professional planner or coordinator can act as the buffer between you and Aunt Sally who thinks this is her wedding, or cousin Eddy who gets a little too drunk (And a lot too opinionated), or your bridesmaid who means well but who is stressing you out.

Mark Mahan

10. M ost importantly , peace of mind Relax and enjoy your big day. Your planner or coordinator will do the heavy lifting. Let them stress about the lights and the place settings, the timelines and the music. You just enjoy. Time with your family and friends, getting pampered, and celebration.

MAKE A STATEMENT Say more than “I do” on your wedding day.

Express your unique style with a venue that lets you be true to you. From rehearsal dinners to intimate ceremonies to farewell brunches, make it memorable in the galleries of 21c. > Learn more at 21cLexington.com

#21cWeddings 167 W Main Street, Lexington | 859.899.6800

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his past October, Christine and Justin’s dear friend hosted an extraordinary Keeneland tailgate the day before their wedding for their family and friends who traveled in from all around the world. Around 100 guests attended their Pinterest-style brunch. The bridal tent included a chandelier and old doors as the serving tables. The lavish food spread included Nate’s coffee, bacon in mason jars, pedestals with muffins and biscuits with jellies. They had a Bloody Mary and mimosa bar to complete the brunch setup. Many of the guests had never attended a tailgate before so it was the perfect introduction, followed by horse racing and a beautiful rehearsal dinner that evening.

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Mothwing Photography EVENT COORDINATOR: Audra Meighan TAILGATING & HORSE RACING: Keeneland REHEARSAL DINNER: 21c Museum Hotel Lexington REHEARSAL DINNER MUSIC: Paper Moon Lexington

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 12 Months STARTING GUEST COUNT: 395 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 250 FIRST LOOK: Yes! FIRST DANCE SONG: “Sufjan Stevens” – Chicago HASHTAGS: #noFaultinStanley #ChristinedeBride

FIRST DATE: After a few conversations on Tinder we had our first date at West Sixth Brewing for yoga night! Not only did Justin meet me that night, but a lot of my friends as well. He was personable, engaging and didn’t mind that my friends joined us on our first date.

That night we talked for hours, so much so that we continued the conversation the next day at West Sixth. Two days later we had our third date: brunch. I can’t remember be separated since that time!

CHOOSING A VENUE: Space, food & distance were our priorities. We wanted all of our guests in the same room. We wanted a caterer that would make Caribbean food and we wanted our ceremony and reception close to each other.

ADVICE: Take your time! Think about why you’re getting married, think about who you are marrying and create an event that encompasses and expresses the love you have for each other!

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Melanie Mauer Photography CEREMONY VENUE: Christ Church Cathedral RECEPTION VENUE: The Carrick House BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Twirl Lexington GROOM’S ATTIRE: Stuart Mercer Gentleman’s Shoppe WEDDING RESOURCE CENTER: Simply Love Studio WEDDING PLANNER: The Bride’s Assistant CATERER: Lundy’s Special Events STATIONERY: C Buxton Designs FLORALS: Three Toads Farm HAIR: Yasmeen Thompson, Bei Capelli Salon MAKEUP: Image Insight TRANSPORTATION: Gold Shield Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: Reel Special Productions HOTEL ROOM BLOCK: Gratz Park Inn, Hilton Lexington/Downtown and 21c Museum Hotel Lexington GROOMSMEN GIFTS: L.V. Harkness & Company REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: 21c Museum Hotel Lexington ENGAGEMENT RING: Designs Unlimited Fine Jewelers RINGS: Helzberg Diamonds BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 43

Flawless Factor Planning your wedding will be one of the most exciting times of your life and possibly also one of the most stressful.

Your skin will act as a barometer for what is happening in and around you. Without special care, the wedding stress may show itself in the most inopportune way. Lackluster skin, unwanted Trish Allen breakouts and unImage Insight der eye bags are just a few of the potential side effects of fast-paced wedding planning. Consulting with a skin care professional early on in the process is one of the best ways to prevent unwanted skin issues.

Kevin and Anna Photography

The key to success is to start early. As the owner of Image Insight Aesthetics & Artistry I have an unspoken but very important rule. I won’t touch a bride’s skin any less than three weeks before her wedding. To effectively change and improve skin I have to see how it reacts to products and treatments gradually. There is no “go big or go home” recipe in the skin care treatment processes. Six months to one year prior to your wedding is the perfect time to seek a trained and licensed esthetician for skin analysis and treatment.

What are the benefits of working with an esthetician?

He/she will analyze and evaluate your skin type and conditions such as congestion, dehydration, fine lines, sun spots and acne breakouts. Appropriate treatments will be recommended as you are guided to select your home skin care regimen. Essentially, you will work together as a team to get your skin beautiful and glowing.

Some of the specialty treatments that I recommend to my brides-to-be include customized facials, dermaplane facials, and high frequency treatments. Brow shaping and lash enhancement services are also very popular. TreatBRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 44

ment facials will vary in price, length and features from one location and practitioner to another. A good Esthetician will customize a facial treatment that’s perfect for your skin. A dermaplane facial removes both the dulling layer of dead skin cells as well as vellus hair (peach fuzz) from the skin. A high frequency treatment is incorporated into most of my facials at Image Insight. It improves circulation, oxygenates the skin and, believe it or not, can decrease the healing time of blemishes.

More superpowers most skin care experts possess are lash and brow related. Regular visits for brow shaping are always a better choice than a last minute pre-wedding visit for a brow wax. Make certain to work with someone who is trained in both brow design and working with the delicate skin near the eyes. A newer treatment rising in popularity is a lash lift. This is a low maintenance way to make your lashes look longer and your eyes look brighter and more open. Valuable upgrades to this service are tinting to darken the lashes and/or infusing a Keratin Solution that strengthens, smooths and adds volume to the lash.

The results last approximately six to eight weeks.

Overall, you should expect a relaxing experience during which your skin is cleansed deeply, exfoliated gently, nourished with a treatment mask and a relaxing facial with a décolleté massage. Getting regular facials every four to six weeks can not only help to manage your stress levels but also improve your complexion. Regular facials, lash and brow services are the key to improving your flawless factor on the big day.

Bourbon & Brides Kentucky Wedding Photography

Photo: Sweet Tea Weddings

Photo: Amy Jackson Stallings

Wes Brown Photography

Photo: Unknown

Photo: Kevin & Anna Photography



Lexington’s most versatile wedding location



New vibrant outdoor reception space with horse farm backdrop

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Over 29,000 sq. ft. of indoor & outdoor venue options

Wedding Packages starting at $1,275 thethoroughbredcenter.com | 859.293.1853 BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 45

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 7 Months STARTING BUDGET: $5,000 ENDING BUDGET: $10,000 STARTING GUEST COUNT: 170 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 120 FIRST LOOK: No FIRST DANCE SONG: “Turning Page” - Sleeping At Last

PROPOSAL: He proposed in our kitchen after I gave him a bottle of Blanton’s bourbon. I should have given him that bottle months ago!

IMPORTANT ELEMENTS: The aisle runner with a message to my Dad. I am the baby of the family and the only girl so that was something we wanted to make extra special.

ADVICE: Use Simply Love Studio! Sarah made what could have been a very stressful event so effortless; I cannot thank her enough! Get an amazing photographer and videographer! It is worth every penny.

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Erica Plummer Photography CEREMONY VENUE: Central Christian Church, Cynthiana RECEPTION VENUE: The Prizing House TUXEDOS: Geno’s Formal Affair WEDDING RESOURCE CENTER: Simply Love Studio CATERER: The Prizing House DJ: Professional Touch Entertainment HAIR: Stylin’ on Regency MAKEUP: Makeup by Rick Bancroft VIDEOGRAPHER: Erica Plummer Photography BRIDAL SHOW ATTENDED: Bridal Bliss Classic RINGS: The Castle

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 14 Months STARTING BUDGET: $12,000 ENDING BUDGET: $20,000 STARTING GUEST COUNT: 200 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 150 FIRST LOOK?: No FIRST DANCEC SONG?: “Sunday Morning” - Maroon 5 HASHTAG: #goffforgood FAVORITE PART OF PLANNING PROCESS: Having my family members join me for the appointments. I loved having reassurance from my mother and sister that I was making the good decisions. These experiences are fun and meant to be shared!

CHOOSING A VENUE: We needed a venue that would capture the Derby Day spirit, be acoustically sound for a 5-piece band and comfortable host 150 guests. The Round Barn Stable of Memories fit the bill and it is historical, charming, affordable and conveniently located.

IMPORTANT ELEMENTS: Making sure the food, mood, music and atmosphere were comfortable for everyone. We put a lot of trust in our wedding planner to bring our concept of a fun and elegant Derby Day celebration to life!

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Christopher Michael Images CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: The Round Barn Stable of Memories PLANNER: Tiffany Goff with Goff Tents & Events CATERER: Bayou Bluegrass Catering FLORALS: Goff Tents & Events Floral Design RENTALS: Goff Tents & Events HAIR: Betty Rodgers MAKEUP: Beth Kendall VIDEOGRAPHER: Christopher Michael Images PHOTO BOOTH: Christopher Michael Images REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: The Barrel House REGISTRY: Macy’s and Bed Bath & Beyond RINGS: Jared The Galleria of Jewelry LIGHTING: Goff Tents & Events

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Signature Drinks

Kevin and Anna Photography

Shanna Combs & Erin Ennis Bayou Bluegrass Catering S pring

Springtime brings on fresh blooms and warmer weather.

The Bourbini is light and fruity.

Sangria is always a crowd pleaser with fresh fruits and juices.

BOURBINI

Drinkware: -Champagne flute Ingredients: -1 ounce Bourbon of choice -½ ounce Peach Liqueur -Sparkling Wine or Prosecco -Mint Preparation: Add bourbon then peach liqueur to glass then top off with sparkling wine or prosecco.

Garnish: -Mint Leaf THE BEST SWEET RED SANGRIA (yields 50 servings) Drinkware: -Wine Glass (medium-large in size) Ingredients -6 bottles Sweet Red Wine -6 cups Orange Juice -6 cups Lemonade -10 cups Gingerale -3 Oranges sliced -2 Apples sliced -2 Pears sliced Preparation: Mix all ingredients together BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 54

When planning a wedding, one of the most important things to do is to tailor your details to fit the personality and style of you and your fiancé. One of the most popular customizations you can do is to incorporate a signature cocktail at the reception or the ever popular “His” and “Hers” drinks.

When selecting a signature cocktail, it is important to remember that signature drinks should revolve around one thing – the nuptials being celebrated. When guests pick up your cocktail, it should feel like an

introduction into your relationship. It should explain how it all started, the ups and downs you’ve experienced, and the passion that has brought you to this special day bound together with the words “I do.” Every wedding is structured around a theme and understanding how all of the different elements come together. Bringing in a signature cocktail is just the cherry on top of the wedding sundae.

We’ll happily drink to that! Here are some recommendations and guest favorites that we serve at Bayou Bluegrass Catering.

and chill overnight, if possible.

Then serve in wine glass with ice cubes, if desired.

Garnish: Orange slice, Apple slice, and Pear slice

Mint Leaf and Lime Wedge Fun Tip: You can also create a “Kentucky Mule” option by omitting the muddled berries and using Kentucky Bourbon instead of Vodka.

Summertime in Kentucky can be HOT and HUMID! Cooling your guests off with some refreshing beverages is a must.

The Mule is a light and refreshing drink for summer. Create a “Mule Bar” by adding a variety of berries for guests to choose from.

MULE BAR

Fall flavors can be incorporated into some tasty drinks!

Our Apple Cider Old Fashioned is a great spin on a classic bourbon drink for “the guys.”

Apple Cider Mimosas are perfect option “the ladies” to sip on during those crisp fall days.

APPLE CIDER OLD FASHIONED

Drinkware: -Copper Mug Ingredients: -Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries -Ice Cubes -1 ½ ounces Vodka of choice -½ ounce Lime Juice -½ cup Ginger Beer -Mint -Lime wedges Preparation: Start by muddling 2-3 berries in the bottom of the mug then follow standard mule instructions. Add ice cubes to fill mug, vodka, lime juice then top with ginger beer.

Garnish:

Drinkware: -High Ball Glass Ingredients: -Ice Cubes -Sugar Cubes -2 ounces Bourbon of choice -2 Dashes Angostura Bitters -2/3 cup Apple Cider -Apple Slices -Maraschino Cherries Preparation: Muddle sugar cube and bitters in bottom of glass until dissolved then fill glass with ice cubes. Add bourbon then top with apple cider.

Garnish: Cherry and Apple Slice APPLE CIDER MIMOSA Drinkware: -Champagne flute Ingredients -Cinnamon sugar

S ummer

F all

-2 ounces chilled Apple Cider -Champagne or Prosecco -Apple Slices Preparation: Rim the champagne flute with cinnamon sugar. Add apple cider then top off with champagne or prosecco.

Garnish: Apple Slice

W inter

Warm beverages in the winter are always well received.

Cozy up your guests with this version of a classic Hot Toddy!

HONEY BOURBON HOT TODDY

Glassware: -Glass mug Ingredients -2 tablespoons Honey -1/2 cup Hot Water -1 ½ ounces Bourbon of choice Lemon Wedges Cinnamon Sticks Preparation: Incorporate honey, hot water and squeeze of lemon into glass, stir to dissolve then add bourbon.

Garnish: -Cinnamon Stick and Lemon Wedgelesas

Historic and charming, The Round Barn Stable of Memories is located in the heart of Lexington! The barn has a tremendous amount of character, open space and unique ambiance that creates the perfect setting for your special day.

Fill your Special Day with Bluegrass Hospitality and Southern Tradition Inspired by all things Kentucky...Bourbon and Horses! Copper Roux is equipped with upgraded audio visual capabilities, onsite catering, and an open floor plan which allows flexible use of this gorgeous space!

The perfect locations for your Rehearsal Dinner or Wedding!

Bayou Bluegrass Catering More than a Caterer!

B AYO U B L U E G R A S S C AT E R I N G

(859) 523-7915

861 South Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504 Web: bayoubluegrass.com Email: bayoubluegrass@gmail.com

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Dance Floor Wraps

A ndrea P aczkowski Couples always hear about the countless ways to customize their wedding, but it’s sometimes hard to find those unique ideas! This is where custom dance floor wraps are the perfect option. Nadia’s Elegant Events has recently

started this trend in central Kentucky and we’re excited to see more couples incorporate this idea!

Many couples work with stationery vendors to have a monogram or logo designed for the wedding. They often want to carry the theme throughout the wedding but aren’t always sure how. You can now use your theme, logo, monogram, wedding date and more to create a beautiful wrap for your dance floor.

The possibilities are endless with graphic designers! It is a great way to bring your reception up a notch and include

something your guests will always remember. The custom dance floor wraps will easily endure a fun night of dancing, in or out of your shoes.

The dance floor wraps will also look remarkable in all of your wedding photos! These dance floor wraps add a distinctive element to the wedding that will set it apart and give your guests something to talk about for years to come.

G ive N adia ’ s E legant E vents a call at

859-539-2211

to customize your dance floor today !

The Kentucky Castle

Kevin and Anna Photography

The Kentucky Castle, formerly The Castle Post, located in Versailles is a boutique hotel and event space.

We’ve all driven by it a thousand times and wondered what it was like on the inside and who might be calling it home for the night.

Due to new ownership, the interior has undergone a new facelift in the last year. We wanted to share a few weddings that encompass the entire property and show that you can take a beautiful venue and make it your own for your wedding day!

All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 18 Months STARTING GUEST COUNT: 35 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 50 FIRST LOOK: No FIRST DANCE SONG: “Thinking Out Loud” – Ed Sheeran

PROPOSAL: Chris proposed on the beach in Florida during sunset and arranged a photographer to be there to capture it all!

CHOOSING A VENUE: Chris is a wedding DJ and has worked a lot at The Kentucky Castle. He took me to see it and I instantly fell in love. It was perfect for our theme!

ADVICE: Weddings can be stressful, take your time!

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

PHOTOGRAPHER: Rochambeau Photography CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: The Castle Post WEDDING DRESS: David’s Bridal MEN’S ATTIRE: Geno’s Formal Affair CATERER: The Castle Post CAKE: Tinker’s Cake Shop DJ: C.D. Productions Mobile DJ FLORALS: Goff Tents & Events Floral Design MAKEUP: Sarah Rivard BRIDAL SHOW ATTENDED: Bridal Bliss Classic RINGS: Kay Jewelers BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 59

All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 12 Months STARTING BUDGET: $20,000 ENDING BUDGET: $40,000 STARTING GUEST COUNT: 120 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 120 FIRST LOOK: No FIRST DANCE SONG: “I Do” – Jesse James Decker HASHTAG: #Kingme

FAVORITE PART OF THE PLANNING PROCESS: I loved the entire wedding planning process! I enjoyed every moment because it was so much fun to see how involved my parents were. Both my mom and my dad came to almost every appointment I had with my vendors.

It was an awesome experience being able to share the process with them since I am an only child. The greatest experience I got to share with them was the dress shopping. It helped us bond and it allowed me to share an experience that they did not get to have in their own wedding.

CHOOSING A VENUE: I would say we did not choose our venue, but our venue chose us. Ever since I was a little girl I loved The Kentucky Castle. For as long as I can remember, I told my parents that I

WANTED TO GET MARRIED THERE.

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

PHOTOGRAPHER: Conrhod Zonio Photography CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: The Castle Post MEN’S ATTIRE: Men’s Wearhouse WEDDING RESOURCE CENTER: Simply Love Studio CATERER: The Castle Post CAKE: Martine’s Pastries CEREMONY MUSIC: Electria Strings DJ: C.D. Productions Mobile DJ FLORALS: Fields in Bloom RENTALS: Goff Tents & Events TRAVEL AGENT: Maureen Halsey – Wright, Memorable Travels & Honeymoons REHEARSAL DINNER: Bella Notte BRIDAL SHOW ATTENDED: Bridal Bliss Classic REGISTRY: Belk, Macys and Bed Bath & Beyond LIGHTING: C.D. Productions Mobile DJ ALTERATIONS: The Needle’s Eye Alterations

All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 13 Months STARTING BUDGET: $20,000 ENDING BUDGET: $30,000 STARTING & ENDING GUEST COUNT: 75 FIRST LOOK: Yes! I was a Wacky Wavy Inflatable Tube Man. FIRST DANCE: “Iris”- Goo Goo Dolls HASHTAG: #vanroyer

LOVE STORY: We met online and talked for over a year before we met in person. We had exciting conversations where we would give each other quizzes and challenge each other’s intelligence.

We had an instant connection and bonded over our weird interests.

WEDDING DATE: We chose Friday, October 13, 2017 and announced our engagement on October 13, 2016.

IMPORTANT ELEMENTS: Capturing our style was important! I always knew I wanted a black wedding dress and a dark theme.

ADVICE: Don’t get discouraged from planning out your dream wedding. If you want a weird themed wedding, prepare for a myriad of people to tell you that you’re doing it wrong, to be disappointed or roll their eyes. Don’t let those people crush your dream.

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

PHOTOGRAPHER: Pieced Together

HAIR: Indigo Salon & Wellness

Photography

OFFICIANT: Reverend Jeff Eller

CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE:

VIDEOGRAPHER: Manis Productions

The Kentucky Castle

BRIDESMAID GIFTS: Your Name Here

WEDDING DRESS: Renee’s Bridal, KY

Bowtique

CATERER: The Kentucky Castle

PHOTO BOOTH: Pieced Together

CAKE: Martine’s Pastries

Photography

DJ: Music By Mike G

REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION:

BAND: Society’s Plague

Bella Notte

STATIONERY: Simply Done Invites

BRIDAL SHOW ATTENDED: Bridal

FLORALS: Doug Smith Designs +

Bliss Evening Classic

Events

RINGS: Helzberg Diamonds

RENTALS: Goff Tents & Events

LIGHTING: Society’s Plague

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Castle Full Page

Erinn Foglesong lexletteringky@gmail.com www.lexington-lettering.com

Calligraphy + Handlettering Services; Illustrative Design

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Custom Wedding Dresses

Kate McStay Photography

Renee Miller

Renee’s Bridal KY 1. W hat makes a custom gown from R enee ’ s B ridal different from gowns purchased at other retail gown shops ?

Brides will often visit multiple bridal boutiques and never truly find the dress of their dreams. A lot of times, brides will like the top of one dress and the bottom of another. At your average boutique, your options are slim whereas here at Renee’s Bridal KY the possibilities are limitless. Because my designs are custom, I am granted the honor of allowing my brides to truly be a part of the process by picking out their favorite lace, choosing fabrics and simply adding their own personal flare that aids in my inspiration for creating a custom one of a kind gown that is created from their heart.

2. W hat trends are you seeing for gowns right now ?

I have had several brides come to me recently requesting cold shoulders, various necklines, and different colors underneath dresses like blush or champagne. To be honest, I have had lots of unique requests because my brides know I can give them whatever their heart desires. Here are some of the top trends from bridal 2018: -Color: The color blush is really huge right now. Soft colors are in. I am doing a lot of strong pinks and dusty pinks and have even seen some ice blue.

-Prints: Today’s brides are adding fun floral prints to help them stand out on their big day.

-Long trains: Many brides are loving the dramatic look of a long train that makes the pictures breathtaking.

-Capes: We are seeing dresses with princess inspired capes to help give brides a dramatic entrance.

-Dramatic backs: Whether it is a low back or intricate beading, brides are focusing on the design of the back of the gown just as much as the front.

-The cold shoulder trend is also starting to spread into the bridal world and is something I am loving to design for brides.

-Pockets in wedding gowns are a fun and helpful trend that are making it into bridal.

-Texture: 3D flowers are a fun way to spice up any wedding gown.

-Off the shoulder and lace sleeves

are popular for 2018 brides -The classic silhouettes are making a comeback for brides in 2018 and is something I love to incorporate into any design.

3. H ow does the timeline work for a custom gown ?

I like to have as much time as possible, although I have created custom gowns in as little as 3 months. I think

what makes the time special here at Renee’s Bridal is that the process allows me to truly build a relationship with my brides. By the time they leave me for the last time, we have discussed everything from the dress, to the color scheme, to the groom.

We are a family here, and once you are my customer you become a part of that.

4. W hat is your favorite part of work ing with B rides to design a custom gown ?

My favorite part of working with brides when designing their custom gown is being granted the honor of sharing such a special moment with them. The hush that comes over the crowd of their family and friends when they find that gown for their special day is something I absolutely cherish. Many happy tears have been shed here through the years. It never gets old.

5. D o you have a favorite type of gown to design ?

My favorite type of gown to design is the one that speaks to the heart of my bride, no matter what that is.

I have had the opportunity to design various gowns of all shapes and color such as red, black, blue and ivory.

Everything from A to Z. I always say there is never a boring day here at Renee’s.

6. A nything else we should know or include ?

I have had the honor of being a custom designer for 17 years now, and it has been a journey unlike any other.

I have designed some amazing gowns for some incredible people and I am eternally grateful for that. Renee’s Bridal has been featured on TLC where I had the opportunity to make Joy, Jinger and Kendra Duggar’s dream dresses come to life. I’ve also worked with Tori Bates from the TV series Bringing Up Bates. I never dreamed that two television networks would roam the streets of Mount Sterling, Kentucky to find me. Ten times in the last year alone my shop and I have been featured on television. It has been such a wonderful experience for me, my staff and even our community here in Downtown Mount Sterling, for which I am are truly grateful.

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 8 Months FIRST LOOK: No FIRST DANCE SONG: “Better Today” - Coffey Anderson FAVORITE PART OF PLANNING: Bride – cake & gelato tasting, Groom – choosing the venue CHOOSING A VENUE: The beautiful horse farm at Polo Barn at Saxony was perfect for us, since we call Kentucky home. The owners made our choice even easier for us, they were incredible to work with!

IMPORTANT ELEMENTS: It was important that all of our family and friends would be there to celebrate with us. Jay was adamant that we get married before Kentucky’s football season started!

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Willie Wilson Photography CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: The Polo Barn at Saxony SUITS: Geno’s Formal Affair CATERER: Type A Catering CAKE: Tinker’s Cake Shop DJ: SoundWave Mobile DJ FLORALS: Blooms ‘n Blossoms RENTALS: Purdon’s Rental & Sales HAIR: Patty Mink – Sparks, A Salon MAKEUP: Melissa Brown Graham VIDEOGRAPHER: Reel Kentucky Films REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: The Polo Barn at Saxony BRIDAL SHOW ATTENDED: Bridal Bliss Classic REGISTRY: Macys, Williams-Sonoma and Bed Bath & Beyond ENGAGEMENT RING: Jared The Galleria of Jewelry ALTERATIONS: The Needle’s Eye Alterations DESSERT: Spotz Gelato

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The Biggest Piece of the Pie

Diane Kellum Type A Catering As a full-service caterer, I am often one of the first few vendors that an engaged couple might meet with. I can also sometimes be the Wedding Grinch.

What is a Wedding Grinch? It’s me, when I start talking about the wedding budget. My Wedding Grinch speech covers how much weddings really cost, backed up by real, hard numbers. As a caterer, I am a logical choice to talk budgets, since my line item is going to eat up almost half of that budget.

According to The Knot 2017 Real Wedding Study, catering averaged $70 per person. That’s a big number, and it adds up really fast when you start multiplying it by 100, 150, 200, or even 300 guests. And while you might be sitting there thinking I’m not got to spend $70 per person, I guarantee that most of you are going to spend more than you think.

In reality, the total cost of catering will be based on many factors, only one of which is the menu you have chosen.

What most people don’t understand when they sit down to figure out the cost to feed 150 people, is that in addition to the cost of the food, you will have labor and service staff, rentals, equipment, and the ever popular miscellaneous.

Most couples that are dealing with a caterer separate from their venue are hiring an off-premise caterer. Off-premise simply means that your caterer works at another location, and will be bringing everything from their kitchen to your venue. I tell my couples to assume that this will add somewhere between 25% and 50% above what a similar meal would cost at their favorite restaurant.

S ervice S taff & L abor After the food and drink, labor and service staff will be a significant cost, how significant will be determined by

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a variety of factor, the primary being which style of service you choose. There is a reason that the buffet is the most popular choice for weddings. In fact, in its 2017 survey, WeddingWire found that 56% of couples had a buffet. Quite simply, buffets requires the least amount of staff. Alternatively, plated meals along with family-style service are going to require both more service staff and onsite kitchen staff.

When you think about your wedding, are you looking for a fast food or white table cloth experience for you and your guests? The level of service you desire will ultimately be reflected in the service fees you will be charged. Full-service is exactly what it implies. The caterer will staff your event, set tables, fill water glasses, clear plates, and ultimately cleanup everything associated with the food and beverage service including taking care of trash. Alternatively, you can hire someone who will drop off food, but understand that if you haven’t hired staff to clear tables and cleanup, you may find yourself doing so at the end of the night in your wedding dress.

In additional to the service staff you and your guest will see throughout your event, the servers, bartenders, and bussers, the other piece is the labor you may not see. That labor includes the people responsible for loading and unloading the catering vans, washing the rented dishes, and even take all the garbage to the venues dumpsters.

Erin Trimble Photography

R entals Rentals represent another piece of the total catering cost. What rentals you need will be determined by your venue.

You may need to bring in everything: tent, tables and chairs, linens, china, flatware, and glassware. A basic china rental – salad plate, dinner plate, cake plate, 5 pieces of silverware, and a water glass will cost between $4 and $6 per person. If you want specialty china, silver flatware, all glass at the bar, your rental cost will be significantly more.

E quipment As a caterer, we work at various venues, and what each venue defines as the caterer’s “kitchen” varies greatly.

Some venues have fully equipped kitchens with sinks, ovens, fryers, even dish machines. Others, have a room that is designated the caterer’s workspace, and may or may not include a sink. If you are looking to save some money on catering, this is a place to have a conversation with your caterer.

By simply making better menu choices, you could potentially save yourself hundreds of dollars in equipment rental.

M iscellaneous The miscellaneous cost is another cost that will vary based on the unique details of your event. Probably the most common is ice. Many venues do not have ice machines, and in the summer, an event for 200 guests with a full bar service will require in excess of 500 pounds of ice.

The solution is either an ice delivery or an ice trailer rental. Another miscellaneous cost, a cook’s tent; often tent weddings require a separate 20x20 tent to give the caterer a workspace out of the direct view of your guests. And then there is power. How many circuits does your venue have, are there enough to accommodate the tent, band, and caterer, or will you need to rent a generator.

M aking E verything P retty When you take the first step into your reception, you want to be blown away by both the welcome you receive from friends and family as well as the culmination of the hard work done to achieve the perfect vision. Another thing that your caterer does is ensure the food and table presentations are on point.

We know how the dishes and glassware should be placed and we know how to make a tablecloth straight. Aside from the flowers & cake, much of the presentation in your reception is due to your caterer. Finding everything in its proper place with a touch of style is a worthy spend.

There are many things to keep in mind when deciding on your food & beverage options for your wedding. We know you that feeding 150 people isn’t your daily routine and we’re here to help you find the best fit for your budget. When you begin your catering meetings and start hearing numbers that might be slightly higher than you expected, keep in mind there are many contributing components, including the beautiful WOW Factor when you step into your reception for the first time.

*Doesn't include dress or honeymoon

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Photo by: Jenson Larson Photography

All the Little Details

Engagement: 8 Months Starting Guest Count: 200 Ending Guest Count: 200 First Look: No First Dance Song: “In Case You Didn’t Know” - Brett Young Hashtag: #OHHappySheas Favorite part of the planning process: Spending time with my family & friends!

Proposal: I was on my way home from work after being out of town and Andy kept calling asking how much longer and seemed antsy for me to get to the house. When I arrived home he asked me to check our pet pig’s collar, he felt he had put it on too tight. I checked it and noticed something shiny that normally wasn’t there. It was a charm that read “Andy wants to know if you will marry him!”

Choosing a venue: We loved our venue because it was a blank canvas and was perfect to bring our Gatsby vision to life!

Advice for other couples: Make sure you eat, it’s so easy to forget! I wanted to speak to everyone and was just so happy to finally be celebrating that I was starving by the end of the night!

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Kortnee Kate Photography RECEPTION VENUE: Fasig-Tipton SUITS: Geno’s Formal Affair WEDDING PLANNER: Great Expectations KY CATERER: DaRae & Friends Catering CAKE: Martine’s Pastries FLORALS & DECOR: Great Expectations KY RENTALS: Canvas Event Furniture, Events with Design and Great Expectations KY TRANSPORTATION: Gold Shield Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: Kortnee Kate Photography GROOMSMEN GIFTS: Custom Louisville Slugger Bats BRIDAL SHOWER LOCATION: Shakespeare and Co. REGISTRY: Macy’s and Bed Bath & Beyond DRAPING & LIGHTING: Events with Design ALTERATIONS: Darling Sew Shop ICE SCULPTURE: Lexington Ice Sculptures CUSTOM DANCE FLOOR & SIGNAGE: SpeedyPro Imaging BALLOON CEILING: Lighter Than Air FLAPPER GIRLS: Maui Crane Designs CIGAR ROLLER: Kentucky Gentleman Cigar Co.

Mr. Popcorn Fresh popcorn popped on site at your next event!

859.494.2209 MrPopcorn@DougSmithDesigns.com

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Red River Gorge Wedding Barn

Daydreaming about a romantic wedding day with a charming country flair? Our storybook venue will leave any southern soul swooning!

Red River Gorge Wedding Barn & Event Venue is nestled in the lushness of the Red River Gorge on 45 acres, only four minutes from Natural Bridge State Park. Red River Gorge Wedding Barn’s story began in the fall of 2016. When Lloyd and Debbie stumbled upon this hidden haven, their hearts got excited! They knew right away that this farm had potential as the perfect wedding destination.

The increase in demand for barn weddings reflects a significant shift in the wedding industry, which suggests that couples are deviating from the norm. Rustic charm weddings have become very popular since they can be as casual or as elegant as the couple wishes. Barn weddings are no longer defined or limited within the boundaries of burlap runners, mason jars and chalkboard signs. Just envision, create and let your own personality and style shine through!

Red River Gorge Wedding Barn is landscaped with two 100-year-old barns, outdoor gazebo venue and two pond locations that provide rich photography opportunities. A spectacular backdrop of waterfalls, creeks, cliffs and caves are available to couples to use for engagement photo sessions as well. The barns have been equipped with radiant heat towers and commercial fans for year-round weddings. They can seat up to 200 guests and are adorned with chandeliers, Edison lights, stained glass and church pews. Each of the barns, outdoor venues and bridal suites have been specially landscaped and are covered with flowers.

The reception barn offers a custom cedar entrance, food preparation room and a large mirrored disco ball that towers over the stage and dance floor. The reception barn also features specialty flooring, spacious restrooms and wheelchair accessibility. The charming bridal suite features a large deck, patio furniture, hot tub, large sitting room with a fireplace, kitchen, master bedroom with private bath and a parlor. The parlor provides a hair salon station and a three station make-up counter for the bride and bridal party. The groom and his party have a separate entrance into the “man cave’ themed suite that includes foosball and Nerf basketball. The entire bridal suite is equipped with satellite TV and Wi-Fi. Red River Gorge Wedding Barn offers several wedding packages. The most popular package offers the opportunity to arrive the day before the wedding, hold a rehearsal dinner and an overnight stay for the Bride and her girls in the suite. The Diamond and Double Lapis Lazuli Photography Diamond Package both include a honeymoon night in the suite. Cabin packages are also available for wed- and groom. Tables, chairs and linens are included in ding guests through 5 Star Cabin Rental. Guests receive each of the packages and a 25 percent deposit is all that a discounted rate if they mention the registered bride is required to secure your date!

Call Debbie Little at (240) MARRY-ME or visit the website at www.redrivergorgeweddingbarn.com BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 79

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 15 Months STARTING GUEST COUNT: 100 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 120 FIRST LOOK: Yes! It was amazing!

FIRST DANCE SONG: Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” WEDDING DAY HASHTAG: #loveandlight17

PROPOSAL: We were on vacation in Jamaica and at a steel drum band show near the stage. Unbeknownst to me, Sean had prearranged the band to play “Thinking Out Loud”.

Into the second verse, Sean lead me to the dance floor.

Initially, I wondered why we were the only people dancing. Sean gave me a spin and as I turned back around, he dropped to one knee!

PICKING A VENUE: The Signature Club was the only venue I wanted after getting engaged. The scenery, bridal suite, amenities and cost helped make my decision easy.

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Wes Brown Photography CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: The Signature Club TUXEDOS: Geno’s Formal Affair WEDDING RESOURCE CENTER: Simply Love Studio CATERER: Gourmet Goodies by Thelma CAKE: Batter & Buttercream Custom Cakes STATIONERY: Three Little Birds Designs FLORALS: Fields in Bloom HAIR: Tajuana’s Beautique MAKEUP: Darcy Combs, Mary Kay HONEYMOON TRAVEL AGENT: Trips to Cherish RECEPTION FAVORS: DIY, Jamaican Jerk Spice Jars REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: The Cellar Bar & Grill BRIDAL SHOW ATTENDED: Bridal Bliss Classic RINGS: Kay Jewelers ALTERATIONS: COCO Alterations

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Photo Booths Bring the Party to Weddings

Sam Mosley Mack Daddy’s Photo Booth Photo booths have been trending for the past few years and continue to grow in popularity. They can be a great investment for any wedding. The bridal party and guests have access to their own personal photo shoot with no limit on the photos they can take. The booths are a great way to capture memories and genuine reactions of the wedding reception.

They also provide the couple with the opportunity to see moments of the reception that they would always not be able to see. They are able to see their guests enjoying themselves and making memories of their own on the special day. The right photo booth company will have your guests talking for weeks about how much fun they had laughing and being silly when they were taking pictures in the booth.

Photo booths are an entertaining addition to any wedding and add a uniquely personal feature to the pictures they take. Guest will not only have fun, but they’ll be able to document their joy and contribute to the couple’s special day. The unlimited availability of photos and the ability to post them on social media make photo booths a wise and valuable investment for any wedding.

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Looking forward to your big day, here are some questions you should be asking when hiring the right photo booth company: •Is the photo booth company well established?

•Does the photo booth company have a good reputation?

•Is the photo booth open air or an actual “booth”?

•How much room will you need for the photo booth and will you need a table?

•Are the photo images high quality?

•Is the photo printer high quality?

•Do the pictures print out on location?

•What size pictures are available for print?

•Will the picture border be customized in honor of your wedding day?

•Does the photo booth company offer a lot of props?

•Does the photo booth company offer a scrap book for guests to sign?

www.batterandbuttercream.com

(859) 661-1333

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 11 Months STARTING BUDGET: $30,000 ENDING BUDGET: $38,000 STARTING GUEST COUNT: 150 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 122

PROPOSAL: We didn’t have a formal proposal, although the night of the June 2015 Supreme Court marriage quality decision, Dean looked at me and said “Would you marry me if I asked?”. We announced our engagement at his birthday dinner!

CHOOSING A VENUE: While studying Architecture at UK, Dean visited Shaker Village several times and fell in love with its charm, simplicity and architecture. A lot of our guests were traveling for the wedding and it was great that everyone could stay at the venue!

IMPORTANT ELEMENTS: We wanted the evening to feel more like an extended cocktail party than a typical wedding. Everything flowed nicely from the ceremony to the cocktail hour to dinner.

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

PHOTOGRAPHER: Fyrefly Photo + Films CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill CATERER: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill PIES: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill RENTALS: Purdon’s Rental & Sales TRANSPORTATION: Triple Crown Golf Cars HOTEL ROOM BLOCK: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill RESTROOMS: Blue Moon Restrooms

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 18 Months STARTING BUDGET: $15,000 ENDING BUDGET: $17,000 STARTING GUEST COUNT: 234 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 150 FIRST LOOK: Yes! FIRST DANCE: “Luna” - Smashing Pumpkins HASHTAG: #leatherstein

FAVORITE PART OF PLANNING PROCESS: We made ornaments out of bourbon barrel staves for our seating assignments. We received lots of photos of them on Christmas trees this past season!

CHOOSING A VENUE: Mike is into bourbon and I’m a sucker for a beautiful location with rich history. Buffalo Trace Distillery hit all of those marks!

IMPORTANT ELEMENTS: The thing I kept saying is that we wanted the day to feel like a warm hug. Mike and I used a “Mad Lib” template for our vows, it was perfection!

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Hedges Photography CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: Buffalo Trace Distillery MONTH OF COORDINATOR: Ivory Grace Event Planning CATERER: City Barbeque DESSERTS: City Barbeque RENTALS: Purdon’s Rental & Sales BAND: Blue Eagle Band HOTEL ROOM BLOCK: Capital Plaza Hotel REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: Capital Plaza Hotel BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 97

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 15 Months STARTING BUDGET: $15,000 ENDING BUDGET: $20,000 STARTING GUEST COUNT: 265 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 175 HOW MANY DRESS SHOPS DID YOU GO TO? 2 FIRST DANCE SONG: “Tennessee Whiskey” – Chris Stapleton

LOVE STORY: We grew up in church together and lost touch a little after high school, until we ran into each other at a Kentucky basketball game. He made a point to go out of his way to talk to me.

I didn’t think anything of it since we knew each other so well, but later that week he started talking to me and we hit it off from there.

PROPOSAL: Every time Joshua tried to keep a secret about our engagement I ended up finding out. We had planned a trip with his family and I was certain he was going to propose there. The night before we left he called and said he was with our friends at one of our favorite Breweries and to come meet him. When I arrived, I opened the door to our favorite song, Tennessee Whiskey, playing. Our dogs had signs around their necks that said, “Will you be a Babcock too?”

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Phillips Mitchell Photography CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: Talon Winery WEDDING DRESS: Meant to Be Boutique MEN’S ATTIRE: Men’s Wearhouse DAY-OF COORDINATOR: Planned to Perfection of the Bluegrass CATERER: CakewalkKY WEDDING CAKE & GROOM’S CAKE: Martine’s Pastries BAND: 64 West Band FLORALS: Carol Lynn Originals & Events RENTALS: Mr. Linen HAIR & MAKEUP: Jordan Mize, Simply Blue Salon VIDEOGRAPHER: Carl Babcock REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: Hartland Clubhouse REHEARSAL DINNER CATERER: Blue Door Smokehouse REGISTRY: Pottery Barn and Bed Bath & Beyond DRAPING: Events with Design WEDDING DAY JEWELRY: PANDORA Jewelry BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 101

BLISSFUL MAP OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY

CENTRAL KENTUCKY

venue map

Did you know that the “Horse Capital of the World” is not only a location for central Kentucky couples to get married, but a destination wedding spot? Our beautiful countryside and convenient location offers repurposed barns, gardens, ballrooms, distilleries and more. You’re sure to find the perfect venue to fit your style, budget and guest count right here in Central Kentucky!

Kevin and Anna Photography

Honey Heart Photography BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 102

Cody Myers Photography

Aaron Stringer Photography

1. The Carrick House

The Carrick House is ultimate boutique wedding venue in the Bluegrass. Owned and operated by Lundy’s Special Events, we represent the perfect marriage of the elements that have made Lexington a southern charm; sumptuous sophistication, gracious hospitality, a festive welcome and of course, exquisite food and beverage. From rehearsal dinners, engagement events, ceremonies and wedding recevptions; the Carrick House features beautiful indoor and outdoor settings for your next special occasion. We also offer flexible event design to accommodate your party size and budget. carrickhouse.com

2. DoubleTree Suites by Hilton

When it comes to life’s celebrations, look to DoubleTree Suites

by Hilton Lexington to provide an experience that will exceed your expectations. Enjoy a reception in our open French Quarter-style atrium surrounded by Balcony Suites, or a formal meal in one or our ballrooms accommodating from 45-200 guests. Let us help you create the wedding of your dreams. lexingtonsuites.doubletree.com

3. Hilton Lexington / Downtown

5. Grffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa

Five By Five Gallery Say “I do” at the Hilton Lexington / Downtown! Our luxurious venue will enhance all of the special occasions surrounding your Wedding – from your Welcome Party and Rehearsal Dinner to your Ceremony, Reception and Honeymoon. With the help of our event specialist, every detail will be custom-designed to reflect your personal taste and vision! lexingtondowntown.hilton.com

The Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa sets the stage for a truly distinctive wedding that evokes the spirit of Lexington, Kentucky. Our array of reception venues includes an authentic antebellum mansion and a rolling, scenic lawn. Also benefit from an array of on-site amenities, including an award-winning culinary team griffingatemarriottweddings.com

4. Malone’s Prime Events & Receptions

6. The Thoroughbread Center

An ideal venue for your special day! This exquisite venue offers a unique atmosphere, accommodating intimate dinners to grand receptions. With a variety of room and décor options, lighting, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and a plethora of delicious menu options, each couple will be able to create a personal and memorable event.With the help of our event specialist, every detail will be custom-designed to reflect your personal taste and vision! bluegrasshospitality.com/malones-prime

Nestled among the rolling hills of the Bluegrass, we offer an exceptional wedding venue offering both indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception locations.

With affordable rates and an experienced staff to assist you with all of your planning stages. thethoroughbred-center.com

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BLISSFUL MAP OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY

frankfort

West Sixth Farm

nicholasville

The Barn at Springhouse Gardens Celebrate amongst the beautiful rolling hills of Kentucky in the heart of horse, bourbon, and beer country! The West Sixth Farm offers a wide selection of house-made beers and exceptional customer service - all set on the perfect bluegrass backdrop with easy access to downtown Frankfort, hotels, and the interstate for your guests. westsixthfarm.com The Barn at Springhouse is the perfect blend of rustic and elegant. Just minutes from Lexington, our historic tobacco barn is surrounded by beautiful gardens with many options for outdoor ceremonies and a wonderful setting for enjoying your special day. springhousegardens.com

harrodsburg

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

danville

Warrenwood Manor The Wayfarers Photography

Amidst the timeless architecture and an enduring spirit sits a refined and inspiring storybook Kentucky wedding destination.

Tranquil yet powerful, Shaker Village provides the ideal setting for the simplest ceremony or the grandest reception. Let Shaker Village tailor a weekend made just for you. shakervillageky.org

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bryantsville

The Ashley Inn

Kaylie Plummer Photography

For the most romantic event of your life, choose an elegant yet relaxed historic estate. A fully renovated manor home and wedding barn provide multiple spaces to customize your celebration.

Here, sincere southern hospitality and a stunning setting combine for an unforgettable experience. warrenwoodmanor.com

Wes Brown Photography

The nostalgic Ashley Inn is the most romantic location for your indoor or outdoor destination wedding. Say your vows lakeside, under a weeping willow, on the front lawn of the antebellum mansion, or in a rustic horse barn. Our open-air, fully enclosable Carriage House is perfect for your reception, and comes equipped with all the facilities you need. ashleyinnbandb.com

georgetown

Cynthiana

Ashford Acres Inn

olive hill

Evans Orchard

Smokey Valley Chapel

Kevin and Anna Photography

Nestled in Georgetown, KY, is the perfect site for your elegant southern wedding.

Our renovated tobacco barn offers indoor seating for up to 200 guests as well as a getting ready room for bride and groom, caterers’ prep room, modern restrooms and plenty of parking. Outdoor views of the family farm provide a wonderful opportunity for an outdoor ceremony on a warm Kentucky evening.

EvansOrchardEventBarn.com

Wedding Venue close to Lexington, Georgetown, & Paris with catering, wedding cakes, ceremony & reception rentals, and day of coordination for weddings with up to 200 guests.

Call 859-298-2989 or email info@ashfordacresinn.com to set up your FREE wedding consultation at Ashford Acres Inn. ashfordacresinn.com

Beautiful and unique, Smokey Valley Chapel is a hidden gem set on a wooded hilltop in the heart of Smokey Valley Farm, the largest working horse farm in Eastern Kentucky. Smokey Valley also offers lodging, is near Carter Caves State Park and only one hour from Lexington via I-64. smokeyvalleyfarm.com

lexington

berea

Historic Boone Tavern Hotel and Resturant

richmond

Copper Fox Event Center

Terry Enterprises

Among the vintage beauty, elegant gardens and grand white columns, we will create a memory for you to last a lifetime. Both indoor and outdoor spaces available for ceremony and receptions. Be our Bride of the Day! boonetavernhotel.com

Copper Fox, an old two-screen movie theatre, has been transformed into the perfect location for your wedding!

Beautiful design and a neutral color palette allow for you to make this space your own. Open to all vendors, and customizable for any size event and access all day! copperfoxevents.com BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 105

Why Are Wedding Venues So Expensive?

Brittney Adams Warrenwood Manor If you’ve started wedding planning, you have no doubt asked yourself the question, “Why are wedding venues so expensive?” As the owner and operator of the wedding venue Warrenwood Manor, I can tell you exactly where your money goes. I’ll admit, the answer is a bit boring, but the importance of this behind-the-scenes information cannot be understated.

Venues earn their value by providing excellent customer service and beautiful, safe spaces for amazing events and memories to take place. ` VENUES PROVIDE EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE From your initial inquiry, through the booking and planning process, your venue should support you as you navigate the chaos of wedding planning. Venues should not only answer your questions quickly, but also offer useful planning resources and helpful suggestions based on their experience. If you’re planning your wedding without a wedding coordinator, you’ll definitely benefit from a venue that will help determine the set up for your event that works with your vision, and also functions well for the flow of the event. Additionally, venue staff should provide event management assistance, address facility issues and anticipate your needs in an effort to help make your event go smoothly.

VENUES CREATE BEAUTIFUL SPACES Pretty things don’t come cheap.

Venues spend enormous amounts of time and money creating and maintaining beautiful spaces for your wedding. Since every inch of the property is photographed and experienced by your guests, everything you see inBRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 106

Daring Tale of Darling Bones Photography

side and outside a venue is carefully planned, selected, and cared for by someone. The cost of decorating, cleaning, landscaping, and maintaining the property requires significant human and financial resources. To amplify these costs, additional expenses are incurred nearly every weekend from damages that must be repaired before the next event.

The cost of your venue goes beyond the customer service you receive and what you see onsite. Your venue fee also goes toward paying practical expenses like mortgage payments and utilities. In order to provide you with a top-notch facility your venue must charge a fee that covers their costs.

VENUES KEEP THEIR PROPERTY LEGAL AND SAFE Legitimate venues value property aesthetics, guest safety, and facility functionality equally. Safety and function concerns are amplified with large groups of people and the guest experience can quickly be negatively impacted by a facility that’s not prepared. Thus, all venues are legally required to adhere to The Kentucky Department of Housing, Building and Construction regulations in regards to things like: handicap accessibility, electrical wiring, emergency exits, maximum occupancy, and restroom facilities. Wedding venues, including barns, spend ample money and time to provide a facility that meets all of Kentucky’s Building and Plumb-

ing Codes. It should be noted that not all venues follow these standards and thus risk being fined or closed by the state. To avoid stress and uncertainty, make sure the venue you’re considering is legally up to code by asking to see a copy of the venue’s certificate of occupancy. You may even want to request proof of insurance from your venue to make sure they carry adequate liability and property insurance.

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 12 Months STARTING GUEST COUNT: 200 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 150 FIRST LOOK: Yes! FIRST DANCE SONG: “That’s How Strong My Love Is” – Otis Redding HASHTAG: #HappyNewHollans FAVORITE PART OF PLANNING: tasting all of the food & desserts HOW DID YOU MEET? We met through mutual friends, but Jon initially reached out on Facebook almost 8 years ago after seeing a picture of me on a friend’s page. Hundreds of messages were exchanged and it was a few months before we actually met. Things moved pretty fast from there and we have been together ever since!

CHOOSING A VENUE: We wanted something with a lot of character and vintage flare!

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Laura Rose Photography CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: The Club at UK’s Spindletop Hall GROOM’S ATTIRE: Crittenden Rawlings CATERER: The Club at UK’s Spindletop Hall CAKE: Minton’s at 760 CEREMONY MUSIC: Electria Strings BAND: The Positive Movement Band STATIONERY: Pretty Strange Design FLORALS: Carol Lynn Originals & Events TRANSPORTATION: Gold Shield Transportation HOTEL RAOOM BLOCK: Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa PHOTO BOOTH: Picture Perfect Photobooth Rentals REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: Pasta Garage Italian Cafe BRIDAL SHOW ATTENDED: Bridal Bliss Classic

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Transcend Wedding Stress with Wellness Our motto is “wellness with a purpose,” which means we focus on healing our patients and strengthening their bodies from the inside out.

Dr. Arena and Dr. Skiljan are both board certified chiropractors, who focus their treatments around performance-based care. They emphasize patient relief Bryon M. Arena, DC CSCS and care by coupling manLizabeth Arena, MHA CHC ual adjustments with other Arena Chiropractic offerings such as body temIs the wedding planning pering, cupping, soft tissue stress starting to get to you? modality work, and patient Odds are it is with planning, education. A simple visit managing family, and jug- with one of them will set you gling all the puzzle piec- up for wedding day success es of your big day have not and beyond. only crept into your day-today, but also your neck, your back, your shoulders, arms, legs, and mind.

Stress is taking over.

Don’t let it.

Take a step back, give your body some attention and watch the stress-free wedding take form.

At Arena Chiropractic, For deeper healing and inwe offer a variety of services that keep you healthy, side-out de-stressing, see strong, and vibrant. Be- our acupuncturist. She is tween chiropractic adjust- board certified in Acupuncments, acupuncture, mas- ture and Oriental Medicine sage therapy, and/or proper and treats ailments from nutrition management, you acute and chronic pain to can find the treatment your the common cold and everybody needs to de-stress and thing in between. Her services include electric stim enjoy your big day. needling, cupping, gua sha, BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 112

and auricular treatments.

She also offers treatments to focus on anti-aging, helping to keep you looking and feeling your best.

Need a massage to work out the stress knots? Relax with one of our two massage therapists. They are Licensed Massage Therapists with backgrounds to provide all levels of myofascial release, deep tissue massage, stretching, chair massage, and energy work. Take an hour for yourself. Actually, take two.

For help managing your diet before the big day, visit our registered dietician, who can help you get ready to look and feel your best.

He specializes in weight loss, performance-based and diagnosis-related personalized plans, and oneon-one coaching. Corey offers consults where you will leave with goals and a plan.

He also offers larger packages to track progress and offer accountability for longer periods of time, based on your individual needs.

Your wedding is one of your most important moments.

Live it well - body and soul.

Come see us at Arena Chiropractic and let us help make your day a full, healthy, memory to relive for the rest of your life.

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 12 Months STARTING BUDGET: $25,000 ENDING BUDGET: $35,000 STARTING GUEST COUNT: 150 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 210 DRESS SHOPS VISITED: 1 FIRST LOOK: Yes WEDDING DAY HASHTAG: #popfizzjenks

FAVORITE PART OF PLANNING: Dress shopping, picking out music with my husband, working with Simply Done Invites, sending funny texts to my wedding planner, renting beautiful designer dresses for all of my bridal parties and premarital classes - we actually loved them!

FAVORITE ELEMENTS: I surrounded myself with trusted vendors, who could be a support system when things got crazy.

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Claire and Barrett CEREMONY VENUE: Saint Peter Catholic Church RECEPTION VENUE: Champion Trace Golf Club WEDDING DRESS: Twirl Lexington BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Twirl Lexington SUITS: Men’s Wearhouse MONTH-OF-COORDINATOR: Doug Smith Designs + Events CATERER: Champion Trace Golf Club WEDDING CAKE: Martine’s Pastries STATIONERY: Simply Done Invites FLORALS: Doug Smith Designs + Events HAIR: PinkLouLou Design Studio MAKEUP: Amelia Evans TRANSPORTATION: Gold Shield Transportation HONEYMOON TRAVEL AGENT: Trips to Cherish VIDEOGRAPHER: Reel Special Productions ROOM BLOCK HOTEL: Hilton Lexington/Downtown REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: Shakespeare and Co. REGISTRY: Macy’s and Bed Bath & Beyond RINGS: Rivard Fine Jewelry BRIDE’S WEDDING DAY JEWELRY: Twirl Lexington LIGHTING: Doug Smith Designs + Events ALTERATIONS: The Needle’s Eye Alterations BRIDAL BLISS MAGAZINE • 119

Health Coaching

Amanda Rau Rau Strong As a holistic health coach I guide and empower my clients to take responsibility for their own health. I support and help them to implement and sustain lifestyle and behavior changes that will contribute to the achievement of their personal wellness goals. I believe it is very important that people are educat-

ed about creating healthy, sustainable habits in order to develop balance in their lives.

Happiness and health are synonymous, therefore, those that invest the most time in their health will reap the greatest overall benefits. For a couple that is preparing for marriage, it is crucial to have a feeling of balance and renewed sense of confidence. Holistic health coaches are individuals that look after the bride’s health, and help to keep her on track and motivated with any fitness goals. The bride can share any and all concerns or feelings with a holistic health coach. Planning a wedding is stressful and overwhelming, so health coaches strive to show the bride how to focus of herself as she enters this new chapter of her life.

Holistic health coaches assist clients in getting to know their true selves. It is important for them to know, though it may be scary, that living your truth is the most rewarding way to live and are the building blocks for self-love. Having confidence and self-love can help new-

lyweds take pressure off a new stage in a relationship that is often challenging.

Together, the coach and bride will create new sustainable habits to support weight loss and overall health, and connect the dots between who the bride is and who she wants to be. They will set goals, build self-love and create a selfcare regime.

Rau Strong Health Coaching offers two main programs, one-on-one health coaching and custom coaching.

My health coaching program is six months long with two, one-hour sessions per month. Sessions can be done in person, over the phone or over skype. Each session will have a different topic we discuss together, but the focus will always go where the client needs support. At each session I provide the client with one to two recommendations to work on to help them progress towards their goals. Health coaching will give the bride tools to create new, healthy habits she can utilize long after the wedding.

It’s truly the ultimate investment!

www.meanttobeboutique.com lexington, kentucky

Keith & Melissa Photography

a sweetly southern bridal boutique lexington, kentucky

www.twirlboutique.com

www.etsy.com/shop/TheCrazyBunnyLady thecrazybunnylady1@gmail.com 859-552-2060

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All the Little Details

ENGAGEMENT: 11 Months STARTING GUEST COUNT: 375 ENDING GUEST COUNT: 300 FIRST LOOK: No FIRST DANCE SONG: “January Wedding” – The Avett Brothers IMPORTANT ELEMENTS: Incorporating our family was the most important thing to us and our starting point. The second most important element was selecting a photographer that would document the day perfectly for us!

ADVICE: We opted not to do the first look. One of the best things we did was create some time just for us to eat a meal together before the reception. That allowed us to have time to visit with each guest table and have our picture made with that group!

Visit BridalBlissMagazine.com for more blissful details!

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Seriously Sabrina Photography CEREMONY VENUE: Christ the King Cathedral RECEPTION VENUE: Kroger Field BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Twirl Lexington MEN’S ATTIRE: Geno’s Formal Affair CATERER: UK Hospitality CAKE: The Sweet Shoppe By Beth BAND: Superfecta FLORALS: Stems RENTALS: Bryant’s Rent-All HAIR & MAKEUP: DryArt Salon & Blow Dry Studio TRANSPORTATION: Gold Shield Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: Reel Deal Creative HOTEL ROOM BLOCK: Hilton Lexington/Downtown and 21c Museum Hotel Lexington REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: Malone’s Prime Events & Receptions DANCE LESSONS: Arthur Murray Dance Studio

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VENDORDIRECTORY

BEAUTY

LATE NIGHT SNACK

Image Insight

Mr. Popcorn

CALLIGRAPHY

MEN’S ATTIRE

Lexington Lettering

Crittenden Rawlings

CAKE

PHOTO BOOTH

Batter & Buttercream Custom Cakes Sweets By Cindy

Mack Daddy’s Photo Booth

CATERER

Doug Smith Designs + Events

Bayou Bluegrass Catering Gourmet Goodies by Thelma Sonny’s BBQ Type A Catering

DESIGNER Nadia’s Elegant Events

DJ C.D. Productions Mobile DJ KY Sounds

DRESS SHOP Meant to Be Boutique Renee’s Bridal KY The White Dress of Lexington Twirl Lexington

EVENTS Bridal Bliss Classic Vacation Bridal School

FLORALS Carol Lynn Originals & Events Doug Smith Designs + Events Great Expectations KY

GIFTS & APPAREL The Crazy Bunny Lazy

HEALTH & WELLNESS Arena Chiropractic

ICE SCULPTURE Lexington Ice Sculptures

PLANNER Great Expectations KY

PHOTOGRAPHER Kate McStay Photography Kevin & Anna Photography Wes Brown Photography

RENTALS Goff Tents & Events Purdon’s Rental & Sales

STATIONERY Simply Done Invites

VENUE

21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Copper Roux Embassy Suites Hilton Lexington / Downtown Kroger Field Limestone Hall Marriott Griffin Gate Resort & Spa The Club at UK’s Spindletop Hall The Kentucky Castle The Round Barn Stable of Memories The Signature Club at Lansdowne The Thoroughbred Center White Haven Fields

VIDEOGRAPHER ALT Productions

WEDDING RESOURCE CENTER Simply Love Studio

VOLUME3LAUNCH

VOLUME 3 LAUNCH PARTY VENDORS PHOTOGRAPHER: Seriously Sabrina Photography LOCATION: Purdon’s Rental & Sales and Simply Love Studio CATERER: Bayou Bluegrass Catering DESSERT BAR: Sweets By Cindy BAR: Bridal Bliss Classic

STATIONERY: Simply Done Invites DJ: KY Sounds ICE SCULPTURE: Lexington Ice Sculptures FAVORS: The Crazy Bunny Lady RENTALS: Purdon’s Rental & Sales

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Tracy Burch Photography

Rochambeau Photography

SPONSORED BY:

AUGUST 26, 2018

11 - 4pm HILTON LEXINGTON/DOWNTOWN Pre-Register at: www.bridalblissclassic.com

W

WESBROWNPHOTOGRAPHY