Cincinnati Wedding - Winter 2017

Queen City LOVE STORIES

200

A BEAUTIFUL BEGINNING Lesley Amann and Ben Nunery with Olivia on their wedding day

SCENES FROM A CEREMONY AT RED RIVER GORGE SIGNATURE DRINKS FOR EVERY SEASON

Se eP r A oje sh c a tR A u m n a’ wa PA G sI y E 76 -D A os lu m

GOWNS BOUQUETS INVITATIONS CAKES PHOTOGRAPHERS MUSICIANS AND MORE

Robin Wood Flowers www.robinwoodflowers.com

W I N T E R 2 0 1 7 TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

Bridal Buzz 12 | INSIDER Picture-perfect engagement photos, bridal fitness, and the best hashtags.

14 | ASK THE EXPERT Renee Schuler from Eat Well Celebrations and Feasts.

16 | STYLE Rock the geode wedding trend.

18 | SPOTLIGHT A bouquet bursting with greenery.

20 | TREND REPORT Invite your four-legged best friend to your big day.

22 | SHOP TALK Queen City Vignette can style your event with the coolest vintage pieces.

24 | MAKER SPACE Designer Asha Ama created her own dream wedding gown.

26 | MRS. KNOW-IT-ALL Your pressing etiquette questions.

28 | TRAVEL

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REAL WEDDINGS

Take inspiration from the 23 beautiful local wedding stories featured in this “Real Weddings” issue as you envision and plan your perfect big day.

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A local couple steals away to Red River Gorge for an intimate destination wedding.

The Guide 79 | VENUES We spotlight Hotel Covington and Rhinegeist.

94 | CATERERS A signature cocktail for every season.

The Finishing Touch 96 | Get a glimpse of a throwback local wedding photo.

COVER: Photograph by Best Day Ever, retouching by Patrick White.

P H O T O G R A P H BY B E S T DAY E V E R

3100 Far Hills Avenue Dayton, OH 45429 T: (937) 298.0171 | T: (800) 647.0031

9555 Main Street Montgomery, OH 45242 T: (513) 793.0133 | T: (888) 844.0133

www.jamesfree.com The original CrisscutÂŽ is a trademark used under license from Christopher Designs. Use of the Crisscut trademark is only allowed by authorized retailers.

WINTER 2017 ON OUR SITE ON OUR SITE

Bb BRIDAL BUZZ

Follow our blog to get style and design inspiration, along with the latest trends and happenings around town.

VENDOR VISIT

Our behind-thescenes look at the vendors and venues you want to know about.

Favor Let us do you a

LOCAL WEDDINGS

Get all the details from our favorite real weddings and view our Local Weddings archive.

PHOTO FINISH Our Local Love albums are even bigger online.

Check our site for more shots from the weddings featured in this issue.

SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING

AS SEEN IN

SPREAD THE LOVE

Visit cincinnatimaga zine.com/wedding to tell us about your big day.

After you read the issue, look for this badge on websites and in store windows around town. It’s the best way to spot Cincinnati Wedding’s favorite local vendors as you plan your own dream day.

10796 Montgomery Road 513.489.9600 DonnasGourmetCookies.com

RESOURCE GUIDE

Looking for the perfect florist? Bakery?

Ceremony spot?

Get all the local goods in our searchable Resource Guide.

FOLLOW US

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Cincinnati Wedding Magazine

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7809 Cooper Road in Historic Downtown Montgomery 871-4050 or 1-800-634-4369 • gattlescincinnati.com Cincinnati Wedding is a registered trademark of Emmis Publishing L.P.

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WINTER 2017 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Best West Side Jeweler Cincinnati Magazine December 2015

Custom engagement rings and wedding bands to fit your dreams!

2015

9212 Colerain Avenue Cincinnati, OH 45251 (513) 385-4653 GeraciFineJewelry.com

A

T CINCINNATI WEDDING, WE MAKE IT

our mission to inspire local brides with stunning images of beautifully styled real weddings. That’s what our annual “Real Weddings” issue is all about, showing you the work of hundreds of talented vendors who can help you create the perfect celebration.

But every once in awhile, we get the chance to feature a couple whose love story is far more remarkable than what can be captured in any photograph. That holds true for our cover couple, Lesley Amann and Ben Nunery.

Writer Amy Brownlee shares the almost surreal story of Lesley and Ben, old college friends who reunited after they both lost a spouse to cancer, on page 32. Their wedding day, an intimate outdoor event at a friend’s farm with shades of blush, cool vintage touches, and a low-key meal from Eli’s BBQ, is simple yet artistic, sweet yet creative, and lovely in its own right. But don’t skip the story. There is much more to it than I’ve shared here, and it shows just how powerful love can be, how it endures even after hardship.

You’ll find 23 real local weddings in this issue (which I’m pretty sure is a record), from the extravagant Music Hall reception for Bengals punter Kevin Huber and his hometown sweetheart Mindi, to the double-ceremony, Hindu and Christian celebration of Katie and Sarat Mikkilineni.

Every love story is unique, and we’re so lucky to be able to spotlight some of the amazing weddings created by Cincinnati couples (and their rock-star vendors). After you say I do, go to cincinnatiwedding magazine.com and submit the photos. We can’t wait to see your wedding—and learn about your love story, too.

Family owned and operated since 1985 8 C I N C I N N AT I W E D D I N G M A G A Z I N E . C O M W I N T E R 2 0 1 7

K A R A H AG E R M A N

EDITOR

ILLUSTR ATIO N BY B R IT TA N Y C H R I STI N E

From romance in the 21c Museum to relaxation at The Spa at 21c, receptions and rehearsal dinners have never been so dreamy. Delight your wedding guests with an artful experience at 21c. Room blocks available.

Learn more at 21cCincinnati.com/weddings

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E-SESH HOT SPOTS P. 12

Q&A WITH A CATERER P. 14

ROCK THE GEODE TREND P. 16

WOODLAND WEDDING BOUQUET P. 18

RAISE A GLASS Queen City Vignette can dress up your reception space with stellar vintage pieces, from furniture and rugs to tableware (like these ornate glass goblets). Learn more in Shop Talk, on page 22.

P H O T O G R A P H BY A A R O N M . CO N WAY

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INSIDER

BOOK IT

THE LOCATION OF YOUR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS SHOULD SAY A LOT ABOUT YOU AS A COUPLE. HERE ARE THREE HOT SPOTS. —ELIZABETH MILLER WOOD

A U LT PA R K

FINDLAY MARKET

THERE’S A REASON this romantic park is a go-to destination for so many couples. You can snuggle up on the stone wall of the Heekin Overlook with the Little Miami River Valley as the backdrop, or cozy together on one of the park benches surrounded by manicured flower gardens. At the Pavilion, you’ll find grand white pillars and archways that feel both elegant and dramatic, while two sets of regal stone staircases serve as bookends for the cascading waterfall.

WE WOULD ARGUE this is Cincinnati’s most colorful setting for engagement photos. As one of the Queen City’s oldest and most beloved mainstays, Findlay Market is bursting with vibrant storefronts and rich urban textures.

Opt for a classic Findlay Market photo in front of one of the entrance signs, or post up at one of the classic red tables in the beer garden. Grab some drinks and give a cheers, or steal away for a tender portrait shot in a storefront doorway.

Mt. Lookout,

AULTPARKAC.ORG

Over-the-Rhine,

FINDLAYMARKET.ORG

SMALE RIVERFRONT PARK CAN’T DECIDE BEtween nature and city?

This is the best of both worlds. A sprawling green space, bright flower gardens, and an up-close view of the Ohio River give you earthy backdrops, while killer skyscrapers are visible in every direction. Plus, you can add a little whimsy with a ride on Carol Ann’s Carousel, a frolic through the water fountains, or a dance on the life-sized piano. Oh, there’s also the beautiful Roebling Bridge.

Bridal fitness that’s not just focused on a smaller dress size? Yes, please! Inner Fire Fitness, opening downtown in February 2017, will offer bridal fitness packages that put a more holistic spin on getting fit for the big day.

The class-only gym concept will open with 59 classes per week—from bootcamps and TRX to yoga and a unique-to-Cincinnati aerial hammock program— running 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. An all-organic smoothie café will be open to the public.

“It’s not just an aesthetic approach,” says Amanda Bloomquist, co-owner with Christine Lindner. “You will get the results, but it’s more about the whole package.”

Bridal packages will offer options for both personal training and group fitness training—say, for a whole bridal party. Bridesto-be will also have access to a nutritionist, receive class recommendations to achieve their personal goals, and even have coaching to relieve stress.

Because, yeah, you’ll need that. — E . M . W .

Downtown, MYSMALERIVER FRONTPARK.ORG

Looking for some #weddinginspiration from the 513? These Cincinnati-centric Instagram hashtags will keep you scrolling for hours: #cincinnatiwedding #cincinnatiweddings #cincinnatiweddingphotographer #cincinnatiweddingphotography #cincinnatiweddingflowers #cincinnatiweddingmagazine #cincinnatiweddingvenue #cincinnatiweddingcakes #cincywed ding #cinciwedding #cincibride #cincinnatiweddingplanner #cincinnatibridal #LOCALWEDDINGHASHTAGS

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ILLUSTR ATIO N BY M A RY LO U FAU R E

P H O T O G R A P H S : ( 1 , 3 ) C O U R T E S Y C I N C I N N AT I PA R K B O A R D / ( 2 ) B Y K E L LY L A N S E R

Picture-Perfect E-sesh

NOW WORK IT OUT

ASK THE EXPERT

BOOK IT

FOOD FACTS

6 MONTHS–1 YEAR

How far in advance Schuler recommends booking your caterer

RENEE SCHULER RENEE SCHULER, OWNER OF EAT WELL CELEBRATIONS AND FEASTS, KNOWS HER WAY AROUND A KITCHEN. SHE GIVES US THE DISH ON WHAT’S YUMMY, WHAT’S CRUMMY, AND HOW TO MAKE YOUR GUESTS FEEL LIKE VIPS. — E L I Z A B E T H M I L L E R W O O D

good food is really critical to having a good wedding reception. I truly believe that when people have good food, then they are able to relax and be more comfortable because it’s meeting a basic need.

WHAT ARE THE CURRENT WEDDING FOOD TRENDS? Stations are great because they

offer a lot of variety and choices. We’re also seeing a lot of dessert-scapes. And we definitely still see a lot of Southern foods and brunch. There are so many fun things you can do with brunch—Bloody Mary bars, biscuit and gravy stations, waffle bars.

Another thing I’m seeing a lot of is more mixology trends, with more elaborate garnishes for cocktails, things like full sprigs of herbs, large pieces of fruit, whole lobster claws, and edible flowers.

IN YOUR OPINION, IS IT NECESSARY TO OFFER VEGETARIAN AND/OR GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS ON THE DINNER MENU? It’s critical

to offer a vegetarian option. Most of our entrées are gluten-free because we don’t use a lot of flour-based sauces, but we do

have more gluten-free requests. We have a policy now to indicate if something is vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. You don’t want someone to feel uncomfortable or not be able to eat because of a dietary restriction. All of your guests should be treated like VIPs.

Average cost per head for Eat Well Celebrations and Feasts’s full-service catering, which includes items such as food, service fees, and table and chair rentals

15:1 Ratio of guests to catering staff for a full seated meal

WHAT ARE THE MOST CROWD-FRIENDLY DISHES? Beef is definitely the most popu-

lar. Steer away from more unusual proteins like lamb or veal.

ANY TIPS FOR HAVING A MORE BUDGETCONSCIOUS MENU WITHOUT LOOKING CHEAP? We have done some great appe-

tizer and dessert wedding receptions. That said, don’t start the reception at 5:30. That reception should start at 8.

$30–$40

Eat Well Celebrations and Feasts’s average cost per plate

IF A COUPLE REALLY WANTS TO SPLURGE ON THE FOOD FOR THEIR GUESTS, WHAT ARE SOME IDEAS? I truly love when we have

a budget that expands to fit fun things. I love incorporating decadent foods like lobster or a raw oyster bar. Also, I love the late-night stations. Whether it’s our mini burger bar or a s’mores bar, when you need to take a break from dancing, it’s nice to have another little activity.

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MONTH

How far in advance a caterer begins the production planning for a wedding meal ILLUSTR ATIO N BY JACQ UI OA K LE Y

ILLU S TR ATI O N S (RI G HT ) CO U R TE S Y O F A LE X PIN & KOT V EC TO R /SH U T TER S TO C K IM AG E S

WHAT ROLE DOES THE FOOD PLAY IN THE OVERALL WEDDING EXPERIENCE? Having

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STYLE

THE LOOK

MAD ABOUT MINERALS

READY TO ROCK THE COOL, CRYSTALLIZED GEODE DESIGNS ALL OVER WEDDINGS ARE OUT OF THIS WORLD. GeoBluBliss Cake, with a sweet explosion of carefully crushed rock candy, starting at $1,800, Fat Ben’s Bakery, (917) 6288202, fatbensbak ery.com 1

Rock Hound Soap Lavender Gemstone Soap, glycerin-based with a cool shape, $4, Your Friends & Neighbors, East Walnut Hills, (513) 258-8461, your friendsandneighbors.com 2

Circle Circle Clear Crystal Quartz earrings, in sterling silver (shown here) and 14-karat gold, $35, (513) 405-2826, circlecirclejewelry.com 3

Paz Collective Reverse Egypt Ring, 18-karat gold and black rhodium plate with amethyst, $45, MiCA 12/v, Over-the-Rhine, (513) 4213500, shopmica.com 4

Le Feu de L’eau Bleu candle, sculpted underwater and smelling of jasmine, $62, Idlewild Woman, Over-the-Rhine, (513) 381-4059, idlewild woman.com 5

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY LUANNE DEMEO

THE gown YOU WANT, THE experience YOU DESERVE • • • •

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SPOTLIGHT

GREEN WITH ENVY A BOUQUET OF GREENERY SEEMINGLY PLUCKED STRAIGHT FROM THE FIELD IS THE EARTHY BRIDE’S DELIGHT.

Berzillia Berries Berzillia has clusters of spherical blooms and pine offshoots that add texture to a monochromatic bouquet and give it a woodland feel.

5

Scented Geranium The flowers on this species are smaller and less showy than those on the traditional garden geranium, but the fragrance sets it apart. It’s a perfect addition to a bouquet dominated by green.

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Bunny Tail Grass This annual ornamental grass, marked by fluffy ends reminscent of a bunny’s cotton tail, has a name that speaks to spring and whimsy.

1

Green Helleborus These durable European natives are still found in open meadows in Turkey, Greece, and Italy.

2

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Scabiosa flower Butterflies love scabiosa, also called pincushion flowers. The soft, understated blooms work well as a focal point and as filler.

3

BOUQUET BY UNA FLORAL; PHOTOGRAPH BY LUANNE DEMEO

DOG OF HONOR IF YOUR FUR BABY IS GETTING AN INVITATION TO YOUR WEDDING, THESE HELPFUL TIPS WILL KEEP THINGS FROM GETTING HAIRY. — E L I Z A B E T H M I L L E R W O O D

MAYBE YOU’VE HEARD THAT BRINGING YOUR BELOVED FUR baby to your wedding is asking for trouble (says your wedding planner, your photographer, your mom, and um, pretty much everyone). And while it’s true that including your pup in the festivities can add some challenges and unpredictability, it might also be a special personal touch. Bottom line: It can be done—as long as you do some proper planning.

First decide what role your pooch should play— and it doesn’t have to be ring bearer. He could also be a greeter, standing with your human friends who are handing out programs. Give him a cute sign to wear that says something like “Welcome to the paw-ty” or “Mommy’s getting married!”

Or he could skip the ceremony and just show up for pictures or hang out for the reception, where things are a little less formal. Just make sure your venue is cool with it. During the cake cutting, give him a special doggie treat to make him feel part of the festivities.

Maybe even splurge on a day at the doggie spa for special grooming.

But maybe you do want Bingo to be your ring bearer. Well, if you’re going to bark up that tree, make sure he’s a pro at coming when he’s called. (That means start training him, like, yesterday.) If he tends to have a less-than-laserfocused personality, have someone walk him down the aisle on a leash.

Above all, anticipate the unexpected. Remember that despite the fact that he sleeps in your bed and gets haircuts that are pricier than yours, your beloved canine is still

an animal. And animals can be unpredictable and don’t understand social etiquette. (Don’t say we didn’t warn you when he starts sniffing up Aunt Gloria’s skirt.) To help troubleshoot any unscripted behavior, assign a helper or two to be your doggie’s date for the day.

Of course, dogs aren’t the only fur babies you might want to invite to your wedding. Maybe your BFF (best furry friend) is a cat, a rabbit, or a horse. No one says they can’t participate, too! Let them don some festive attire—like a bowtie or garland of flowers—and play a role. Riding Black Beauty down the aisle?

OK, that might be a little dramatic. But also fabulous.

You don’t want Fido showing up naked to your wedding celebration.

Locally owned Petey’s Pet Stop offers an adorable selection of scarves, collars, bowties, and sweaters. You can even have items custom-made by local artists to match your wedding colors. 311 Howell Ave., Clifton, (513) 221-7387, peteys petstop.com DOGGIE DRESS-UP

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PHOTOGR APHS BY (CLOCK WISE): TM PHOTOGR APHY; MANDY PAIGE PHOTOGR APHY; SHERRI BARBER PHOTOGR APHY

TREND REPORT

S H O P TA L K

WORK THE ROOM QUEEN CITY VIGNETTE UPGRADES YOUR EVENT RENTAL OPTIONS. — A M Y B R O W N L E E

SO YOU’VE FOUND

the perfect reception space—maybe the spare, industrial Rhinegeist Brewery, complete with exposed brick and rooftop bar, or the luxe Monastery Event Center with its beautifully ruined turquoise and gold walls. Or maybe it’s simply your parents’ backyard or a friend’s farm. Now how do you make it comfortable, intimate, and yours?

Start by browsing Queen City Vignette’s 3,000-square-foot Camp Washington studio, which is filled with meticulously sourced furniture, knickknacks, and rugs. You can use these items to accessorize your wedding, much like you would do for your own home.

QCV co-owners Amber Zaragoza and Emma Durham are constantly on the lookout for that perfect velvet couch, hand-knotted rug, or brass paperweight to add personality to your event and fill your reception space with interesting detail and texture.

Seat your guests on one of their 26 rustic wooden benches, trim your aisle with a few of their Turkish rugs, or park your cake on a vintage buffet table. “Our goal is to take a California cool aesthetic and add Midwestern warmth,” Zaragoza says.

The pair have varied backgrounds—Zaragoza hails from Bloomington and holds degrees in art history and painting; Durham is from

Cincinnati and studied at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)—but they share a sensibility that is at once vintage and retro, florid and geometric. This blending of eras and styles informs their diverse collection, ensuring that just about any couple can find common ground in their studio. Expect to find jewel-tone Victorian chairs next to hairpinleg tables, wooden dining chairs alongside ornate colored glass goblets, and even a large collection of brass animals, which Durham notes look beautiful interspersed with simple greenery on banquet tables.

Additions like that, and like QCV’s many art objects, provide decorative options for couples who don’t have large floral budgets. Instead of shelling out for peonies, you can design a centerpiece with objects of different heights and

materials. Says Durham: “It’s the style and swagger that you’d see at really big events, but it can be affordable.”

Starting in the spring, you can use QCV’s collection to furnish your entire wedding (up to around 150 guests), with items like metal banquet tables—“pieces that you won’t want to cover with a linen,” Durham says—and more than 200 copper Tolix chairs (those French metal chairs that you can see in local establishments like Carabello Coffee).

“We’ve been building our collection for two years,” Durham says, “and the things we have are the treasures that you imagine finding.”

Queen City Vignette, 2541 COOK ST.,

CAMP WASHINGTON, (513) 813-8841, QUEENCITYVIGNETTE.COM, CALL FOR APPOINTMENT

Not sure where to begin? Consider a lounge area. For around $400, QCV will set up a settee, two chairs, a rug, and a cocktail table that will accommodate four to six guests.

It’s a quick way to scale down a huge, empty room.

HEARD IT ON THE STREET

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PH OTO G R A PHS BY D E V Y N G LI S TA

M A K E R S PA C E

MAKE A SCENE WHEN THIS UP-AND-COMING DESIGNER COULDN’T FIND HER PERFECT WEDDING DRESS, SHE TOOK MATTERS INTO HER OWN HANDS. —AMY BROWNLEE

IF YOU ALREADY KNOW ASHA AMA’S NAME, IT’S probably because you saw her provocative couture designs on Project Runway: Under the Gunn and Project Runway All Stars, where she competed as a finalist. But maybe you didn’t know that she has serious bridal chops too, working for a time in Marchesa’s Couture and Couture Bridal departments and seeing her own pieces on that world-renowned designer’s runways. She’s also taken on the most challenging, exacting wedding project possible: her own.

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C AT WA L K

Ama was born and raised in Cincinnati, attending St. Ursula and then studying fashion design at the University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP). Her wedding to fellow DAAP student and Cincinnati native Allan Henderson took place at the Monastery Event Center (see it on page 76). The beautifully undone Mt. Adams sanctuary was a perfect background for Ama’s dramatic designs, which included a

fully beaded gown for her ceremony, made from fabric that she scrupulously sourced from India. “Going through that whole process made me realize that there are other women just like me who have a flair for the dramatic,” Ama says.

Ama was fully committed to the look of her wedding: She designed and sewed not one, but two dresses for herself, plus a whopping nine bridesmaids’ dresses and a flower girl dress.

She name-checks Alexander McQueen and Iris van Herpen as her inspirations, and designs for women who don’t want to blend in. “My customer is a girl who sees life as an opportunity to make a statement every day,” Ama says. “And for her wedding day, she wants to be one-of-akind.”

Starting in the spring of 2017, that bride will be able to work with Ama directly to create her vision.

Ama’s own gowns will form the main designs of a small collection, which brides can customize for their own looks. “I have a pretty personal relationship with many of my customers,” Ama says. “It’s more of a collaboration; I’m able to see the collection come to life.”

As for working with brides on their big day? “You’re always opening up the pages of your diary to someone who is trusting you with this big moment,” Ama says. “It’s scary and beautiful and I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

ASHAAMA.COM

DESIGNING WOMEN

MOMENT FOR LIFE

“This is my ceremony gown,” Ama says. “I wanted something that would sparkle all over and really represent the moment that was happening. “

RISE AND SHINE

“This was for my little sister, my maid-ofhonor,” Ama explains.

“She’s a really tall, beautiful girl with great curves, and I wanted her to stand out.”

SQUAD GOALS

“I made one design for the rest of the bridesmaids,” Ama says. “I wanted to show them off and give them something dramatic, so each dress had a train.”

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEREMY KRAMER

M R S . K N O W - I T- A L L If they’re just not getting it, ask your fiancé to step in and ask that they not get super drunk at your dream wedding. If they’re really close friends, they’ll respect the request and tone it down. Hopefully.

If all else seems to be failing, then consider just cutting hard liquor from your bar. This might seem extreme, and any frat boy worth his toga can still do some damage with wine and beer, but it will probably take a couple hours. Spirits will take him from hors d’oeuvres to hammered real quick. Bonus: You’ll save some cash.

Should my parents be paying for everything? They haven’t mentioned it, and I don’t know how to bring it up.

—WONDERING

My fiancé’s college friends are big drinkers. We’ve been to lots of mutual friends’ weddings where they got pretty rowdy, and I don’t want that for my own wedding.

How can I prevent it? I want a reception, not a frat party.

—NERVOUS

DEAR NERVOUS, If you’ve decided to host an open bar at your reception (yay!), then this is a very real concern. And if certain old friends have a habit of, ahem, overdoing it, then it’s almost guaranteed. They’ve probably already selected their designated driver for the evening. You can try a couple things here: Start by dropping hints. When discussing your future reception with these friends, use the word “tasteful” as often as possible. Also “classy.” Will there be small children at your wedding?

Mention that, with a mildly shaming tone. Was there a particularly heinous incident at another friend’s wedding? Remind them. Is there video evidence? Roll that tape. Then cross your fingers.

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DEAR WONDERING, This is a tricky one. As far as Mrs. KnowIt-All can tell, that’s not a guaranteed thing anymore—at least not in your garden variety American wedding. If you’re from the south or Texas or something, then the tradition might be holding on pretty tight. So double-check with the family matriarch.

Mrs. Know-It-All hails from the Ohio River Valley, however, where such social rules have relaxed significantly in the last century. Many contemporary weddings are a family affair, paid for by anyone and everyone, including the bride and groom themselves. But you wanted to know how to proceed, so here goes: The very first thing you should do is talk to your fiancé, and then sit down and talk with both sets of parents, separately.

Because if your parents haven’t broached the subject, then they might not be planning to pay for anything. Or they might be assuming that they’re paying for everything. It’s impossible to know without talking to them. Decide (with your fiancé) what kind of wedding you want to have, and if you need help paying for it—and if so, how much. Then sit down with your parents and tell them what you’re hoping to do. That will be their chance to bring up their contribution, if they do plan on contributing. This might mean footing the entire bill, offering a flat sum, covering certain single items (like your dress or the honeymoon), or nothing at all. Then you ILLUSTR ATIO N BY B R IT TA N Y C H R I STI N E

should have the same conversation with your fiancé’s parents. Once you know the financial landscape, you can start planning in earnest. Above all, be flexible with your expectations. Hurt feelings are not a great way to start a marriage.

BE A MITCHELL’S BRIDE

Are engagement pictures a good idea? It seems like everyone has them. — F E E L I N G P E E R - P R E S S U R E D

OFFSITE

DEAR PRESSURED, Sure! Maybe. Not really? Actually, it totally depends. Start with these questions: Do you love the idea of having your wedding photographed?

Would you welcome the chance to practice posing for said photography before the big day? Have you ever said that you “just want a nice photo of the two of you”? If so, then an engagement session might be perfect.

You’ll get some time in front of the lens to practice not looking weird.

You’ll have cute pictures to share with friends and family. You can buy a new outfit! And it’s a great chance to run through dos and don’ts with your wedding photographer, and rule out stuff that you never even knew was an option. For example: They might ask you to fake-punch your fiancé. Here’s your chance to say “no.”

If none of that sounds like fun to you, then maybe don’t do it. And consider cost: Sometimes engagement sessions are rolled into wedding photography packages, and sometimes they are extra. If the cost is a minimal addition to your photography budget, it might be worth a try. If not, then run the numbers.

Your budget will likely decide for you.

Mrs. Know-It-All is Amy Brownlee. She got married once and it was really fun.

Send your pressing wedding etiquette questions to mrsknowitall@cincinnati magazine.com

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T R AV E L

A Tiny Wedding for Two WESLEIGH TODD AND DANIEL PASZTERKO ESCAPED TO KENTUCKY’S RED RIVER GORGE TO SAY “I DO” WITH A ROMANTIC, INTIMATE DESTINATION WEDDING. — L I N D S A Y L A M B E R T D A Y

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FOR SOME COUPLES, A HOMETOWN WEDDING PACKED WITH pomp and circumstance is the stuff of dreams. For others, a more intimate affair will do. Such was the case for Kennedy Heights– based couple Wesleigh Todd and Daniel Paszterko, who followed history—and their hearts—to Kentucky’s Red River Gorge for their October 13 wedding.

The couple met in 2013 during a night out with their respective friends in Over-the-Rhine. Just two days later, they shared their first date, a hike in Ault Park. “We hiked a bit through the woods, then sat down on a bench to take in the view and chat,” Wesleigh says. “Little did I know that spot would be where Daniel would ask me to marry him a few years later.”

The couple got to work planning their wedding. The decision to keep it small was a simple one. “Daniel and I are very low-key and don’t like to make a big fuss about things,” Wesleigh says. In addition to keeping their celebration small, the couple wanted to incorporate the outdoors. “We’re big nature lovers and we seek adventure, so we knew it had to be an outdoor wedding with some sort of unconventional twist,” Wesleigh says.

PH OTO G R A PHS BY J O N ATH A N W I LLI S

NATURE LOVERS (Left to right) The ceremony at the stunning Sky Bridge; scenic views at Red River Gorge; Daniel and Wesleigh share a kiss after they tie the knot.

BOOK IT

PHOTOGRAPHS BY STEPHANIE BUECHLER ©MYTINYWEDDING 2016

My Tiny Wedding,

Red River Gorge, Kentucky (859) 620-4487, mytinywedding.com.

Elopement services and small weddings, with multiple packages available depending on number of photos and distance of hike.

The search for a wedding locale that fit that description proved to be frustrating. “While we were looking for a unique spot to get married in, we realized very quickly that flights, along with finding an adventurous, talented photographer and officiant was extremely challenging and expensive,” Wesleigh says. It was during a chance conversation that a light bulb went off for Wesleigh, a yoga instructor and hair stylist. “Some clients of mine mentioned the company My Tiny Wedding, and it dawned on us what an amazing idea that was,” she says of getting married in Red River Gorge, Kentucky, where My Tiny Wedding is based. “We’ve spent many years going hiking and camping at Red River Gorge, and we’ve always thought it was one of the most beautiful places in the world,” she says. “And luckily, it’s so close to home.”

The couple contacted My Tiny Wedding, excited by the prospect of the company’s package offerings. “The whole idea of a package deal, including both the photographer and officiant, was so appealing to us,” Wesleigh says. “It made things stress-free, allowing us to fully take in the moments we shared together.”

True to their cool, casual style, Wesleigh and Daniel, who

works in business development at Medpace and is in the National Guard, chose to have their ceremony at Sky Bridge, a spot that holds sentimental value for the pair. “We have hiked at Sky Bridge multiple times and we felt like it’s such a magical place, which is why we chose that location for our ceremony,” Wesleigh says. In a decidedly nontraditional twist, but one befitting the couple’s personalities, they laced up their hiking boots and made the trek— wedding finery and all—to their ceremony site, where they swapped their boots for more refined footwear. “The hike gave us the perfect time to calm our nerves beforehand,” Wesleigh says. The pair exchanged vows in the company of just four friends (“plus a little baby girl,” Wesleigh says) and with a setting sun, a pink sky, dramatic rock formations, and fall foliage as their backdrop. “We felt so secluded and at peace. It was beyond perfect,” she says.

To boot, “Hiking back gave us the time we needed to reflect and to take in the beauty of our location.”

The couple’s experience with My Tiny Weddings “exceeded our expectations,” Wesleigh says. “Our photographer, Stephanie, was incredible. Her pictures are works of art. She, along with our officiant, helped us to feel at ease on our big day.”

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CROSS-CULTURAL AFFAIR P. 36

VINTAGE GARDEN PART Y P. 40

TWO ARTISTS TIE THE KNOT P. 4 4

A BENGAL SAYS I-DO P. 48

NEW BEGINNINGS Lesley Amann and Ben Nunery, posing at the rustic farm where they held their wedding, share a remarkable love story marked by hardship but deďŹ ned by sweet second chances.

P H O T O G R A P H BY B E S T DAY E V E R

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LESLEY & BEN J u n e 1 0, 2 0 1 6

An unlikely couple comes together to build a life after loss.

by A M Y B R O W N L E E photographs by B E S T D A Y E V E R

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B

EN NUNERY IS INTERNET-FAMOUS. IF you were awake and on a computer in late 2013, you know the deal: Ben lost his wife Ali to lung cancer in 2011, a little over a year after the birth of their daughter, Olivia. He lived in the house he bought with Ali, where the couple took “first look” wedding photos for their 2009 wedding. Ben decided to sell the house, but not before he took new photos with then-3-year-old Olivia in many of the same poses from his wedding shots. The photos are beautiful, Olivia is impossibly cute, and the story feels both sad and hopeful.

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His photographer posted the photos to her blog and the next thing Ben knew, he was on the Today Show. Turns out, that’s the least interesting thing about him.

On December 2, 2016, I sat with Ben and his wife, Lesley Amann, in the lobby of Clifton’s Good Samaritan Hospital. Their five-day-old son Nash was upstairs in the hospital’s Newborn Intensive Care Unit.

His remarkably composed mother assured me that he would be going home soon. How did they get to this moment? It’s a journey

FAMILY REUNION (Opposite page) Lesley chose a two-piece outfit from BHLDN, and the couple dressed Ben’s daughter Olivia in a simple linen dress from Zara. (This page) It was “a paper plate kind of wedding,” says Lesley, complete with Eli’s BBQ and bottled soda. Ben’s car, a 1980 Fiat Spider, added a hefty dose of retro-inspired style.

D E TA I L S

WEDDING PLANNER Social | Design & Events FLOWERS Marti Heard Designs CAKE Holtman’s Donuts BRIDE’S DRESS BHLDN GROOM’S SUIT J. Crew CHILDREN’S CLOTHES Zara and J. Crew CEREMONY/RECEPTION Neltner’s Farm EVENT RENTALS Queen City Vignette MUSIC The Comet Bluegrass All-Stars CATERING Eli’s BBQ, Eight Ball Brewing

that feels at once impossible and inevitable.

Ben and Lesley were college friends at Western Kentucky University, part of a graphic design cohort that included a student named Mike Amann. They all settled in Northern Kentucky after graduation. Ben launched design firm Powerhouse Factories with Mike. Lesley worked as a designer, and married Mike in 2007. Along the way, Ben and Mike had a falling out. Mike created the design firm BLDG. Ben stayed with Powerhouse. Though Lesley and Mike attended Ali’s 2011 funeral out of respect for Ben, it seemed that Lesley’s long-standing friendship with Ben might be over.

In 2012, Lesley became pregnant with her and Mike’s first son, Kaizer. Then, when she was eight months along, Mike was diag-

nosed with neuroendocrine cancer. The coincidence was staggering. Lesley had just watched her friend lose his wife to cancer. Now she was facing the same fate, with her own young child in tow.

On November 10, 2013, Mike passed away. Soon, Lesley and Ben realized that they could help each other. They started attending church with their kids and going out for brunch. They built a new friendship, and it didn’t take long for a romance to emerge.

Once they realized they were right for each other, Ben and Lesley wasted no time, marrying on June 10, 2016, in a small ceremony at a friend’s farm. And in a true gift to their guests—60 or so friends and family members who had seen them through the worst of times—they announced their new pregnancy at the reception.

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KATIE & SARAT S e p t e m b e r 2 6, 2 0 1 5

Cultures collide in this colorful, two-ceremony celebration of love and diversity.

by A L E X T A L K S photographs by L A U R A L E P P E R T P H O T O G R A P H Y

A

SERIES OF CHANCE MEETINGS, A LOST phone number, and some serious Facebook stalking finally brought Katie Miller and Sarat Mikkilineni to the altar—twice. On their late September wedding day, the couple celebrated their love with two ceremonies to honor their respective Christian/American and Hindu/Indian roots. “The whole day focused on love and diversity and bringing faiths and people together,” Katie, a speech language pathologist, says.

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The couple assembled a crew of topnotch vendors charged with the task of blending American and Indian wedding customs. Beth Lauter from Glendale Florist has done so many Indian weddings that Katie says she ended up teaching them. The couple incorporated traditional jasmine garland and silks purchased in India by Sarat’s mother, and Sarat made his entrance on a white horse. In fact, this was Sarat’s first-ever experience on a horse, but Katie

D E TA I L S

VENUE Pinecroft Mansion at Crosley Estate RIOT OF COLOR The couple had a traditional Hindu ceremony, with bright red (signifying happiness) attire and jasmine garland. A Christian ceremony followed. Glendale Florist created blooms for both events, including Katie’s bouquet of roses and succulents.

WEDDING PLANNER Cecilia Rose FLOWERS Glendale Florist CAKE Vivian Sweets CATERING Funky’s Catering GOWN Pronovias, Lace Bridal Couture, and Indus Vastra BRIDE’S MAKEUP Molly McMurray BRIDE’S HAIR Molly McMurray VIDEOGRAPHY Happy Kamper Films MUSIC DJ Toad, Robert Reichhart (a friend who played cello during the ceremony) REHEARSAL DINNER Bromwell’s Härth Lounge

says he paraded in like a pro. Sarat, a financial analyst, designed the invitations and favors himself, and the program included information about the symbolism in the Hindu rituals. Katie says Sarat created a Pinterest account to gather inspiration—and he’s only a little embarrassed about it. After a cocktail hour and complete bridal party wardrobe change, a childhood friend of the bride, Reverend Jen Strickland, officiated the couple’s Christian ceremony.

For dinner, Katie and Sarat worked with Funky’s Catering to create their favorite South Indian dishes, including saag paneer and chicken 65, and dinner menus (also created by Sarat) thoughtfully included information about spice level. Sarat’s mother made giant

batches of her famous homemade chutneys using organic tomatoes grown in Sarat’s father’s garden. Appetizers and desserts were all American; chocolate and peanut butter Buckeyes were a must because they’re both big fans of The Ohio State University. Guests danced to a mix of Indian and American tunes spun by DJ Toad.

Best of all, at least for Katie and Sarat, was that two ceremonies also meant two honeymoons. After the big day, they flew to Maui to soak up the sun. Then, a month later, they traveled to India to celebrate with some of Sarat’s family who couldn’t attend the wedding, and they tacked on stops in Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore, Vietnam, and London just because. Talk about wedded bliss.

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AMANDA & CHRISTOPHER J u n e 2 1, 2 0 1 4

This English garden party was blooming with earthy elegance, DIY charm, and lots of sentimental touches.

by E L I Z A B E T H M I L L E R W O O D photographs by J O N A T H A N G I B S O N P H O T O G R A P H Y

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F

OR AMANDA AND CHRISTOPHER EDMAN, IT wasn’t just about the exquisite hillside setting, the delightful decor, or the whimsical yard games. Yes, those details were stunning and creative, but it was the people and their union under God, they emphasized, that made their wedding special.

Amanda spent most of their 20-month engagement in Gabon, Africa, where the couple plans to return on missionary work in August 2018. While she was abroad, their friends and family went above and beyond to help pull the wedding

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details together.

Amanda’s mother made the vanilla-onvanilla wedding cake, the twig and lace table votives, the bridesmaids’ dried lavender bouquets, the groomsmen’s boutonnieres, and Amanda’s garden-esque bouquet. She also helped Amanda create her cathedrallength veil, which she wore over her face as she walked arm-in-arm down the aisle with her father, who co-officiated the ceremony.

The couple exchanged vows in front of a

D E TA I L S

VENUE Hillside Chapel VINTAGE ELEGANCE The couple included delicate nods to decades past, like Amanda’s cascading bouquet, handmade wooden signs, vintage dessert plates, and an orange settee, at their beautifully styled, English garden– inspired celebration.

TABLES AND DINNERWARE Hillside Chapel CATERING One Bistro FLOWERS The Flowerman ORANGE COUCH RENTAL Lori Pritchard GOWN DESIGNER Maggie Sottero, Bridal and Formal INVITATIONS Etsy, Cyan and Sepia BAND Dusty Sturk GROOMSMEN SUITS Men’s Wearhouse TENT, CHAIR, AND SNOW CONE MACHINE RENTAL Kosins Tents & Events

rustic wooden cross loaned by their church, Hillside Chapel. “Because we weren’t married in a church, we wanted [the cross] to be something that pointed to the focus of the wedding,” Amanda says.

A family-style pasta dinner was catered by One Bistro, a Dayton nonprofit organization that helps fund a “pay what you can afford” café. A dessert spread of family-favorite bars and cookies was made by the couple’s aunts, and both friends and family contributed to the collection of yard games, which included a spray-painted Twister board on the grass, jars for catching lightning bugs, and a cornhole set crafted by Amanda’s grandfather, who also made the barn-wood signs throughout the wedding.

Fleur-de-lis symbols were sprinkled throughout the reception—on Amanda’s earrings, on a wrought-iron lantern, and on the ceremony programs—to represent a Bible verse Christopher referenced when he popped the question. Details like the maypole at the center of the reception tent and the silver tea tray gave a nod to Amanda’s childhood in England.

Vintage dessert plates, scavenged by friends and family from antique shops over several months, doubled as party favors. “They are one of so many examples of all the help and support we had,” Christopher says. “It was a celebration that was made possible by so many people, and we’re tremendously grateful for them.”

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JAMIE & JOHN May 14, 2016

A rundown historic church becomes the perfect backdrop for two local artists’ creative wedding celebration.

by B A I H L E Y G R A N D I S O N photographs by B E S T D A Y E V E R

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L

ONG BEFORE JAMIE MUENZER AND JOHN Auer got engaged, Jamie knew she’d found the perfect wedding venue: the historic Church of the Assumption, now an art studio, in Walnut Hills, which she discovered during her artist residency at Core Clay.

“I would joke [to John] that it would be such a cool ceremony space, because it was kind of decrepit, but beautiful and full of character,” Jamie says.

When the couple—both fine arts majors who met in a sculp-

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ture class at DAAP (“Jamie needed a lot of help with her project,” John says. “I kept finding myself coming up with excuses to stay after class and work with her.”)—did get engaged, they immediately started planning how they’d transform the interior of the old church with their artistic vision.

“It was completely DIY,” Jamie says.

“I’m mainly an installation artist so I thought of it as kind of a big art show. I

D E TA I L S

CEREMONY Former Church of the Assumption, Gilbert Avenue OLD MEETS NEW The couple brought some cool details—Plexiglass signs designed by Jamie, botanical bouquets, astronaut cake toppers—into old spaces to create a modern event with an historic twist.

RECEPTION Woodward Theater BOUQUETS Farm Girl Fresh, San Francisco CENTERPIECES The bride and mother of the bride CAKE Bonomini Bakery, Northside DONUTS Holtman’s Donuts GOWN BHLDN, Chicago INVITATIONS Karen Boyhen ALTERATIONS Kim Dao Alterations BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP Holly Gericke, Hair by Holly FOOD Catch-a-Fire Pizza BAND Prestige Grease DJ DJ Mowgli

used Plexiglass to make all the signs, the seating chart, and the table toppers.”

“I also made the backdrop we got married in front of, using butcher paper,” she adds. “And John [who is a carpenter] made the wooden beams they hung between. There was a lot of love that went into it.”

When the big day came, Jamie and John say the DIY touches— beyond just decor—made everything that much more special.

“Jamie’s brother is a writer, and he took a lot of time writing a speech that was really, really good,” John says. “It meant a lot to other people that we were getting married and spending our lives

together, and that meant a lot to us.”

“We wrote our own vows,” Jamie says. “And as I was walking down the aisle, my cousin and my uncle played electric guitar to Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Dancing in the Dark.’ It felt more like a party than a big formal wedding.”

Their advice for couples planning their own weddings? “Go with your gut,” Jamie says. “We definitely had a vision from the beginning of how we wanted the day to be—we wanted it to feel like us, kind of kooky and creative. When people were talking to us about it afterward, they said, It just felt like you guys.” And that’s the point.

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KEVIN & MINDI M a r c h 5, 2 0 1 6

Bengals punter Kevin Huber married sweetheart Mindi Naticchioni during a lavish celebration in Over-the-Rhine.

by E L I Z A B E T H M I L L E R W O O D photographs by K O R T N E E K A T E P H O T O G R A P H Y

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I

T ALL STARTED WITH MUSIC HALL .

Having both grown up in Cincinnati, Mindi and Kevin knew they wanted an iconic Cincinnati venue that represented their roots—and that could also hold all 350 of their wedding guests. Once the venue was booked, the other details fell into place. “We wanted the rest of the wedding to match the old-world glam of Music Hall,” Mindi says.

Guests were greeted with glasses of champagne as they entered the ceremony, tipping them off that they were in for a glamorous,

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elegant evening. The bridesmaids’ dresses were a perfectly mismatched assortment of pearl and cream hues in fabrics ranging from lace to silk to chiffon. “I didn’t want them to look uniform,” Mindi says. “I wanted all my bridesmaids to look like they were just going out to a nice event.”

Inside the reception, the tables continued the mismatched theme with alternating centerpieces of tall and short votives and candelabras. Lace overlays accompa-

D E TA I L S

VIDEOGRAPHY Kortnee Kate in Motion OFFICIANT Neville Shende VENUE Music Hall CATERING Vonderhaar’s Catering WEDDING PLANNER Marti Heard Designs FLOWERS Marti Heard Designs CAKE The BonBonerie GOOD AS GOLD Hometown sweethearts Mindi and Kevin dressed up iconic Music Hall with opulent ivory and gold accents, from towering centerpieces, candleabras, and china to the bridesmaids’ dresses and bouquets, and even the flower-adorned cake.

GOWN Marisa Bridals, Bridal and Formal BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Bridal and Formal INVITATIONS Deb Huber, Designs by Direction FAVORS Macaron Bar DJ Party Pleasers LIGHTING Goodwin Lighting RENTALS All Occasions Event Rental CEREMONY DRAPING Fitz the Occasion GROOMSMEN SUITS Jos. A. Bank BRIDE’S MAKEUP Summer Lippert and Samantha Bott BRIDE’S HAIR Cassandra Doyle and Chelsea Swiney

nied about half of the champagne-colored silk tablecloths. Plush, white floral arrangements added to the luxurious warmth of Music Hall’s ambience, and gold chivari chairs paired well with gold silverware to play upon Music Hall’s gilded glow.

Mindi wanted an elegant cake without a lot of “bells and whistles,” she says, so the couple chose The BonBonerie’s classic opera crème and white chocolate raspberry interiors with an ivory frosting and cascading edible florals that mimicked the sumptuous floral arrangements. If guests couldn’t wait for dessert, they could nibble on the macaron favors placed at their seats. Fun fact: Mindi notes that Macaron Bar allows brides to choose any flavor macaron to

come in any color, so hers came in shades of cream and vanilla to match the color scheme of the evening.

To kick off the party, Kevin and Mindi entered in Drake style wearing red puffy coats and jamming to “Hotline Bling.” Baskets of white flip-flops were available around the dance floor for ladies to kick off their heels.

Once the dance floor had been open a while, Vonderhaar’s opened a Skyline Chili coney bar to help guests refuel. Ending on a note of hometown pride was both practical and sentimental, says Mindi: “We knew it was good late-night food, but it’s also a Cincinnati staple.”

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ANNA & NARESH J u n e 9 – 1 0, 2 0 1 6

Two expats—one American, the other Indian—found love after traveling halfway around the globe.

by B A I H L E Y G R A N D I S O N photographs by F R A M E 8 0 5 P H O T O

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BLUSHING BRIDE Soft pink hues, from the bridesmaids’ dresses and bouquets to the floral-adorned cake, along with hints of gold on the stationery and tables, complemented the historic backdrop at the renovated Monastery Event Center.

D E TA I L S

HINDU CEREMONY Anna’s parents’ house VENUE Monastery Event Center FLOWERS Swan Florist CAKE A Spoon Fulla Sugar INVITATIONS Invitations

by Dawn GOWN Maggie Sottero, Bridal and Formal ALTERATIONS Karla Louise Bridal Designs and Accessory BRIDE’S MAKEUP Simply Makeup & Hair PHOTO BOOTH Tron the Photo Booth VIDEOGRAPHY Nathan Dickerson Videography LIMOUSINE A Savannah Nite Limousine Service DJ Everlasting Sounds

WHEN ANNA DELANEY AND NARESH KRISHnamurthy met for the first time, it was at an Irish pub in Trier, Germany. Both in Europe for work, they’d gone to the pub for trivia night with a local young professionals meetup group and wound up on the same trivia team. They were 4,000 miles from their hometowns: hers in Kentucky, his in India. The two hit it off immediately, and Naresh, who’d attended Heidelberg University and had been living in Germany off and on for nearly eight years, was only too happy to show Anna, who’d recently moved to Trier for a job with the U.S. military, around the country. When Naresh proposed a year or so later, he did so at the famous Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria—a complete surprise for Anna, who merely thought they were visiting the castle for a friend’s sister’s wedding.

For their own wedding, Anna and Naresh wanted to incorporate a mix of both their cultures.

“We did a smaller, more informal Hindu ceremony at my parents’ house [on June 9th],” Anna

says. “And part of the reason we picked The Monastery was because Naresh really wanted to get married in a church, but having lived outside the States, he wasn’t part of a church in the [Cincinnati] area. It ended up being the best of both worlds; it felt like we were in a church, but it also felt like our own ceremony creation.”

Both loved being able to have their friends from around the world be a part of their day, too. “We had several good friends from Trier come to the wedding; [there were] a lot of international people around,” Naresh says.

Anna adds, “It was really nice for my friends from home [to] meet my friends from different places—it was a fun blend of people.”

Anna says her international education is just beginning. “[Naresh] took a new job about a year ago, and we just moved to a smaller city right outside Frankfurt, Germany,” she says. “I’m planning to take some German classes, and trying to integrate as much as possible!”

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ERIKA & BRIAN D e c e m b e r 5, 2 0 1 5

Edgy art and design, whimsical touches, and tons of color make for a fun wedding at the CAC.

by A L E X T A L K S photographs by B E S T D A Y E V E R

GO FOR GOLD Pops of pink and gold details, including ornaments that guests signed, vases, and table runners, added a bit of whimsy to the sleek, modern architecture at the CAC.

D E TA I L S

VENUE Contemporary Arts Center WEDDING PLANNER Social Design and Events DAY-OF COORDINATOR Marty Karp FLOWERS Marti Heard, Marti’s Floral Design CATERING Scratch Food Catering CAKE Jodi Burchman (friend) GOWN DESIGNER Allure Romance, Wendy’s Bridal ALTERATIONS Melinda Rahe INVITATIONS/FAVORS Minted.com, Social Design and Events BRIDE’S MAKEUP Lisa Schmidt (bride’s aunt) and Paige Lubrano BRIDE’S HAIR Paige Lubrano, Paige’s Place Salon OFFICIANT Ernie Stump (bride’s great uncle) MUSIC/DJ Chad Aulick, Perfect Day DJs REHEARSAL DINNER Blinkers, Covington

BRIAN PETRIE PROPOSED TO ERIKA GREER EXactly one year before their wedding day. Erika says she knew it was coming, but the exact moment caught her off guard—she put her coat away, turned around, and Brian was down on one knee in their apartment. Soon after the engagement, Erika contacted Social Design and Events to begin the planning process. “They took everything I wanted and made it happen,” she says. Brian adds, jokingly, “Yeah…we just showed up.”

When it was time to scout venues, Erika loved that the Contemporary Arts Center was colorful and featured interesting art and design elements.

She knew she didn’t want a typical winter wedding in silver and blue, so she chose a palette of gold, plum, blush, and white with touches of sparkle.

“I trusted our florist [Marti’s Floral Designs]. She took my palette and added greenery and ribbons and it turned out great,” Erika says. Guests signed ornaments in lieu of a guest book, and the couple used their friends’ well wishes to decorate their

Christmas tree a couple weeks later. As a selfdescribed “artsy” person, Erika had high hopes for the look and feel of the space as well as the photographs. “Our photographers were amazing to work with,” she says. “They captured us in each moment—it was way more than I could have imagined.”

On their special day, a kind museum visitor unknown to the couple helped the groom and his groomsmen tie their bowties. Erika’s great uncle married them in a short and sweet ceremony before a night of feasting and dancing. When asked about their priorities, both Erika and Brian agreed that food was the most important. They love Taste of Belgium and were inspired to build their wedding menu around ToB’s famous chicken and waffles.

The caterer, Scratch Food Catering in Dayton, never offers the same menu twice and creates all menu items from—you guessed it—scratch. Throw in a mac-and-cheese bar and some sliders—it’s hard to imagine happier guests.

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KATE WURTENBERGER & KYLE RESTLE M a y 2 8, 2 0 1 6

Kate’s and Kyle’s wedding celebrated a love more than 11 years in the making.

Leafy centerpieces, table runners, and topiaries turned the reception hall into a magical garden.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Lyell Photography CEREMONY: Blessed Sacrament Church RECEPTION: Drees Pavilion WEDDING PLANNER: Très Chic Event Planning FLOWERS: Yellow Canary Flowers & Event Design COOKIES: Scratch: Hand-Crafted Desserts GOWN: Pronovias, Lace Bridal Couture INVITATIONS: Poeme BRIDE’S HAIR: Jen Nally MAKEUP: Makeup by Karina VIDEOGRAPHY: Studio Z Films DJ: McFadden Music BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Pediatric nurse GROOM’S PROFESSION: Veterinarian COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Knoxville, Tennessee A LONG TIME COMING: Forget high-school sweethearts—Kate and Kyle are grade-school sweethearts. The two met in preschool, and after years of adolescent flirting, began dating in the eighth grade. CLUTCH KEEPSAKE: Kate’s white lace clutch carried a special significance—her mother made it with fabric from her own wedding dress.

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ALEXIS BONACCI-ROBERTS & BENJAMIN SUER M a y 2 1, 2 0 1 6

This Kate Spade–inspired wedding shone brightly with black, white, pink, and gold details. From custom signage to giant standing letters, this couple celebrated their L-O-V-E in style.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Kortnee Kate Photography VENUE: The Center WEDDING PLANNER: Très Chic Event Planning FLOWERS: The Flowerman CAKE: Maribelle Cakery GOWN: Steven Birnbaum, European Bridal INVITATIONS: Cincinnati By Design BRIDE’S HAIR: Greenline Salon MAKEUP: Rachel Lisa GIANT LETTERS: Kristen Becker, Five Dot Design SIGNAGE: Grainwell CATERING: Funky’s Catering BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Lead data business analyst GROOM’S PROFESSION: Sales director COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Covington L IS FOR LOVELY: The L-O-V-E letters, which defined the ceremony backdrop, were made for this wedding, and are now available for rent. DIGITAL CONNECTION: Alexis and Benjamin let online algorithms lead them to each other, but often told friends they met at a bar (which, thanks to their first date location, was technically true). Any remaining beans were spilled at the reception when the best man thanked the evening’s sponsor, eHarmony.

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SARAH BATTAGLIA & DAVID FRANTZ Fe b r u a r y 2 1, 2 0 1 5

Unexpected snowfall didn’t put a damper on this couple’s wedding day— in fact, they embraced their sudden winter wonderland with a beautiful snow-kissed photo shoot.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Meg Oleson, Frame 805 Photo CEREMONY: St. Francis Xavier Church RECEPTION: Bell Event Center FLOWERS: Eden Floral Boutique CAKE: Tres Belle Cakes GOWN: Monique Lhuillier, Bridal and Formal SAVE THE DATES: Sproullie Designs, Etsy INVITATIONS: Pinwheel Print Shop BRIDE’S HAIR: Alicia Brocker BRIDE’S MAKEUP: Nancy Dawson, BRIDEface CATERING: Nicola’s Restaurant FAVORS: Tea and Becky, Etsy BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Digital advertising account supervisor GROOM’S PROFESSION: Financial planning and analysis COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Hyde Park STOLEN SEAT, STOLEN HEART: The happy couple met at a concert. Sarah was sitting in David’s seats, and playfully insisted they were hers. This small interaction saw sparks flying; two years later they were engaged. LET IT SNOW: Snow is always possible during a winter wedding, but Sarah and David weren’t expecting it to be one of the snowiest days. Thankfully the blizzard—and the stunning photos—turned out to be one of their favorite memories.

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Alvina Valenta Astrid & Mercedes Atelier Pronovias Blue Willow Blush by Hayley Paige Calla Blanche Hayley Paige Jim Hjelm Paloma Blanca Pronovias Tara Keely by Lazaro Ti Adora 3

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NIAMH O’LEARY & MICHAEL HUBBARD June 3, 2016

After a first date staying to close at two restaurants, and a third date to an incredible—albeit intense—production of Titus Andronicus, Niamh and Michael knew they were a match. Their adorable wedding with DIY details highlighted their unique personalities.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Larrison Photography CEREMONY: Bellarmine Chapel, Xavier University RECEPTION: The Transept FLOWERS: Justin Pirnie, Zinncinnati GOWN: David’s Bridal INVITATIONS: Ladybug Pixels (Etsy) BRIDE’S MAKEUP: Nancy Dawson, BRIDEface BRIDE’S HAIR: Megan Reuss, Bella Rey Salon CATERING: Funky’s Catering BAND: The Cincy Brass REHEARSAL DINNER: Myrtle’s Punch House BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Associate professor of English GROOM’S PROFESSION: Store director COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Northside PRETTY PAPER: Niamh and her sister made the folded-paper centerpieces by hand, a process which took hours and included some glue gun burns that were totally worth it. RECEPTION INVESTMENT: When the bride and groom toured the Transept, it was still under construction—in fact, they were encouraged to wear hard hats. Their leap of faith paid off, however, when the space was finished.

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ARIELLE MANN & JOSHUA HANDEL October 3, 2015

Arielle’s and Joshua’s wedding at The Phoenix downtown featured gold details, lush floral arrangements by Robin Wood Flowers, and other classically gorgeous details that combined to create a glamorous evening.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Laura Leppert Photography VENUE: The Phoenix WEDDING PLANNER: Elisa MacKenzie FLOWERS: Robin Wood Flowers CAKE: A Spoon Fulla Sugar GOWN: Emmaline Bridal, Lace Bridal Couture BRIDE’S HAIR: High Five Salon BRIDE’S MAKEUP: Rachel Lisa BAND: The Rodney Sutton Band SUNDAY BRUNCH VENUE: Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown OFFICIANT: Rabbi Meredith Kahan BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Social worker GROOM’S PROFESSION: Attorney COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Eden Park CLASS CONNECTION: Arielle and Joshua met in their freshman English class. They started talking after Josh insisted their assignment was due on Rosh Hashanah, and Arielle quickly corrected him. DANCING THE NIGHT AWAY: One of this couple’s favorite parts of the wedding was the music performed by the Rodney Sutton band, who came down from Columbus to serenade the newlyweds and keep their guests on their feet.

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ELLEN BAUER & MARK SHEPLEY JR. M a y 2 8, 2 0 1 6

Ellen and Mark, both Xavier grads, celebrated their love for each other at a sweet, elegant outdoor wedding at Pinecroft Mansion at Crosley Estate.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jeff Schaefer Photography VENUE: Pinecroft Mansion at Crosley Estate FLOWERS: Robben Florist CAKE: Servatii GOWN: David Tutera, House of Brides, Chicago INVITATIONS: Adam Printing BRIDE’S HAIR: Sweetly Pinned BRIDE’S MAKEUP: Blend Artistry GROOM’S HAIR: 18|8 CATERING: Funky’s Catering VIOLINIST: Manami White BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Human resources GROOM’S PROFESSION: Investments COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Chicago VINTAGE VISION: Ellen’s and Mark’s wedding featured a spring vintage theme reflected throughout DIY details, including a white wire birdcage for collecting cards from guests. HEART TRAIL: Mark proposed by leading Ellen down a trail of hearts, each marked with stories from their relationship.

At the end, Ellen found Mark down on one knee.

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E M I LY H AY E S & CONNOR SMITH April 24, 2016

Emily and Connor celebrated their first day as husband and wife with a daytime ceremony and reception at Ault Park Pavilion full of pink hues and delicate details.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Janne Photography VENUE: Ault Park Pavilion WEDDING PLANNER: Premier Park Events FLOWERS: Flowers from the Rafters CAKE: Amanda’s Baking Service GOWN: Allure Romance, Lace Bridal Couture INVITATIONS: Tahnee Torres BRIDE’S HAIR: Styles by Mich Ellah CATERING: Chef’s Choice Catering BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Account executive GROOM’S PROFESSION: Civil engineer COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Madisonville SENTIMENTAL CENTERPIECES: Emily’s and Connor’s table numbers each featured a different photo of the couple, giving guests a chance to share in some of their memories. PRETTY IN PINK: Details in shades of pink gave this wedding a delicate pop of color. The cake was adorned with pink roses, as were the centerpieces.

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TYRA CAMPBELL & TANNER BENZINGER S e p t e m b e r 1 9, 2 0 1 5

Tyra’s and Tanner’s wedding was a glitzy celebration of their love for each other. From glitter-dipped champagne favors to the night’s sparkler send-off, this couple’s celebration glowed and gleamed.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Amanda Donaho Photography VENUE: The Manor House FLOWERS: Blossoms Florist CAKE: A Spoon Fulla Sugar GOWN: Coco Anais, Lace Bridal Couture BRIDE’S HAIR: Mitchell’s Salon & Day Spa BRIDE’S MAKEUP: Rachel Lisa DJ: Alisa Loeblein, Party Pleasers BRIDE’S AND GROOM’S PROFESSION: Certified anesthesiologist assistants COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Tallahassee BLUSHING BENCH: Tyra’s and Tanner’s day was made all the more special thanks to a family tradition. The bride’s parents gifted the happy couple a bench they used for their first look on their wedding day. If Tyra and Tanner ever need reminded of their love story, they can sit on the bench where it all began.

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TESS EGER & DAVID EDMINSTON Au g u s t 8, 2 0 1 5

An intimate backyard ceremony and bar reception made Tess’s and David’s wedding small but oh-so-sweet.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Best Day Ever CEREMONY: Terrace Park RECEPTION: The Rookwood CENTERPIECES: Fern BOUQUETS AND BOUTONNIERES: Una Floral CAKE: Anna’s Cake and Pastries GOWN: BHLDN SUCCULENT FAVORS: Fern INVITATIONS: Minted Invitations BRIDE’S HAIR: Parlour BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Writer GROOM’S PROFESSION: Quantitative analyst COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: College Hill A FAMILY AFFAIR: The small ceremony was held in the bride’s big brother’s back yard; another of Tess’s older brothers officiated. FULL CIRCLE: Tess and David held their reception at the Rookwood, the same bar where they had their first date.

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ALISON LANGENBAHNYAEGER & JEFFREY FICHNER July 22, 2016

When Alison, a young widowed mother, got back into the dating scene, mutual friends connected her with a second soul mate, Jeffrey. Their wedding represented the start of a marriage as well as a family—Alison’s young son, Ben, gained a father, and Jeffrey, a son.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jonathan Gibson Photography CEREMONY: St. John the Evangelist Church, Covington RECEPTION: Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, Hall of Mirrors WEDDING PLANNER: Molly Harkins FLOWERS: Robin Wood Flowers CAKE: Fantasy in Frosting GOWN: Badgley Mischka, Bridal and Formal INVITATIONS: Creative Invites and Events BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: BRIDEface VIDEOGRAPHY: Poetic Cinema CALLIGRAPHY: Paint JAR Productions DONUT FAVORS: Top This Donuts BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Marketing GROOM’S PROFESSION: Lawyer COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Edgewood FATHERLY LOVE: In honor of the families the day brought together, Alison was accompanied down the aisle by her late husband’s father as well as her own. HEADS OR TAILS: Two months after the pair met, Alison, unsure who to ask on a date to a UK game, flipped a coin. It came up heads, and that evening Jeffrey knew he’d found the one.

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TRACY LEVINE & JOSHUA JURAN D e c e m b e r 3 1, 2 0 1 5

Tracy’s and Joshua’s wedding blended Jewish wedding traditions with the glamour of a downtown-chic New Year’s Eve party.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jonathan Gibson Photography VENUE: Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown WEDDING PLANNER: Wesley Swafford FLOWERS: Robin Wood Flowers GOWN: Amanda Garrett, BHLDN, Chicago INVITATIONS: Poeme BRIDE’S HAIR: CoCo Creative Wellness BRIDE’S MAKEUP: BRIDEface DONUT BAR: Holtman’s Donuts DJ: DJ Toad Productions VIDEOGRAPHY: Light Parade Films BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Managing consultant GROOM’S PROFESSION: VP of corporate finance and development COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: ColumbiaTusculum LATE-NIGHT SNACK: Tracy and Joshua kept guests fed through every moment of their New Year’s Eve reception—their countdown to midnight was stocked with champagne, donuts, and chicken-and-waffle sliders. FRIENDS FIRST: The couple initially met through mutual friends and bumped into each other at social outings periodically. In the summer of 2012, the two both attended a community service event where sparks began to fly.

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American Sign Museum

Cincinnati’s Most Unique Venue!

Photo Provided by Byron Photography

americansignmuseum.org • 513-541-6366

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M E L I S S A P I N G U E LY & ALEX HAVLIN A p r i l 3 0, 2 0 1 6

This couple’s wedding paired delicate touches with a trendy urban setting to create a beautiful day.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Loren Gifford Photograpy VENUE: Rhinegeist Brewery WEDDING PLANNER: Blue Dahlia Events FLOWERS: Robben Florist CAKE: Fantasy in Frosting GOWN: Watters, Bridal and Formal INVITATIONS: Designed by the bride, printed by Designers Fine Press BRIDE’S HAIR: Katie DeLong BRIDE’S MAKEUP: Jean Folchi DONUT BAR: Holtman’s Donuts LASER-CUT TABLE NUMBERS, CAKE TOPPER, AND GUESTBOOK: Grainwell SEAMSTRESS: Margaret Oldfield BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Graphic designer GROOM’S PROFESSION: Attorney COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Riverside SMOOTH MOVES: Melissa and Alex met at a bar—Alex was there for a law school party, and Melissa was meeting a friend. When Alex was on his way out, Melissa stopped him, saying, “You can’t leave, I just got here!” BREWERY BASH: Rhinegeist Brewery made for the perfect backdrop for this pair’s urban-chic wedding celebration.

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AMY NIELSEN & KEVIN GILLIGAN October 3, 2015

Growing up, Amy’s and Kevin’s lives were a series of near-meetings. They lived minutes apart, attended neighboring high schools, and Amy even watched Kevin play countless soccer games before the pair met. They were finally introduced through Amy’s brother in 2011, and then met again in 2014. Their second meeting led to a first date (then a second, then a third) and soon they were planning a future together.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Mandy Leigh Photography CEREMONY: Armstrong Chapel United Methodist Church RECEPTION: Hyde Park Golf & Country Club FLOWERS: Ford-Ellington Floral & Wedding Design CAKE: Tres Belle Cakes GOWN: Paloma Blanca, Lace Bridal Couture INVITATIONS: Poeme CEREMONY MUSIC: Jeffrey Allen Smith VIDEOGRAPHY: Studio Z Films BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Chief marketing officer GROOM’S PROFESSION: V.P. of operations COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Hyde Park BALLOON BLISS: Though Amy’s and Kevin’s wedding was steeped in classic charm, one whimsical detail they brought to the decor was a wall-to-wall black-and-white balloon ceiling above the dance floor. MONOCHROMATIC MARRIAGE: The couple achieved their classic look by using black and white patterns on everything from the invites to the dessert bar.

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ASHA AMA BIAS-DANIELS & ALLAN HENDERSON N o v e m b e r 1 1, 2 0 1 6

When a couture designer gets married, the wedding fashion takes on a life of its own.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Molly Grosse Photography CEREMONY/RECEPTION: Monastery Event Center CAKE: Sheena McCrary GOWNS/FLOWERS: Asha Ama INVITATIONS: Ayan Daniels BRIDE’S HAIR: Maya Altman BRIDE’S MAKEUP: Olivia Song BRIDE’S PROFESSION: Fashion designer GROOM’S PROFESSION: Master’s student and undergrad professor at DAAP COUPLE’S CURRENT HOME: Northside MEET CUTE: Asha and Allan met freshman year at the University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning, where she was studying fashion design and where he studies transportation design.

MAKE IT RIGHT: Asha designed and created 12 gowns for her wedding, including two for herself. “I’m so happy that I actually did it myself,” Asha says. “I just had a vision.”

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Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River with the Cincinnati skyline as its backdrop, The Annie W. and Elizabeth Anderson Pavilion in Smale Riverfront Park, a gift of the Anderson Foundation, is located at street level underneath Carol Ann’s Carousel.

With spectacular views, contemporary elegant décor and ambiance, state-of-the-art technology and an award-winning in-house culinary group, Anderson Pavilion offers a 350+ seat facility, ideal for hosting a wedding in the following spaces: • • •

Gardner Family Grove & Rose Garden Carol Ann’s Carousel & Balcony Suspension Bridge Tunnel Scape

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VENUES 21C MUSEUM HOTEL

609 WALNUT ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 578-6600, 21CMUSEUMHOTELS.COM Capacity: Main Gallery Ballroom seats 100 with area for dancing Room cost/deposit: $2,500/25 percent of estimated total Food cost/ person: $10,000 minimum/starts at $60 per person Cancellation policy: Sliding scale based on event date 20TH CENTURY THEATER

3021 MADISON RD., OAKLEY, (513) 731-8000, THE20TH CENTURYTHEATER.COM Capacity: 300 seated Room cost/deposit: $500– $1,500/$1,500 Saturday, $1,000 Friday and Sunday, $500 Monday–Thursday Food and bar cost/person: $36–$48 Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable but transferable to another date A TOUCH OF ELEGANCE

5959 KELLOGG AVE., CINCINNATI, (513) 231-2312, ATOUCHOFELEGANCE.INFO Capacity: 25–400 Room cost/deposit: Included with cost of food/$500–$1,000 deposit Food cost/ person: $17–$32 Cancellation policy: Deposit refunded if room rebooked within 180 days with a like event ALMS PARK PAVILION

710 TUSCULUM DR., MT. LOOKOUT, (513) 221-2610, PREMIERPARKEVENTS.COM Capacity: Up to 120 upper pavilion area; 80 lower terrace Room cost/deposit: $1,200 Monday– Thursday; $1,600 Friday–Sunday and holidays/$500 nonrefundable deposit Food cost/person: List of preferred caterers, reference website Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable AMERICAN SIGN MUSEUM

1330 MONMOUTH AVE., CAMP WASHINGTON, (513) 541-6366, AMERICANSIGNMUSEUM.ORG Capacity: 175 Room cost/deposit: Please call Food cost/person: Preferred caterers Cancellation policy: Please call ANDERSON PAVILION

8 W. MEHRING WAY, DOWNTOWN, (513) 978-1821, ANDERSONPAVILION.COM Capacity: Up to 350 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/ person: Varies Cancellation policy:

HOTEL COVINGTON

Modern style meets Art Deco romance in Covington’s newest eclectic space, Hotel Covington. With a ballroom, restaurant, library, multiple bars, and 114 rooms—and no shortage of velvet curtains and fur throws—the exquisite ambience of Hotel Covington shines as the backdrop of a cool, classic wedding. After all, guests can grab a drink Hotel Covington, 638 MADISON AVE., COV(and one of those cozy fur blankets) and relax by the INGTON, (866) 501-1700, fireplace during the reception. — D A N N I A H D A H E R HOTELCOVINGTON.COM 8 0 C I N C I N N AT I W E D D I N G M A G A Z I N E . C O M W I N T E R 2 0 1 7

Deposit nonrefundable AULT PARK PAVILION

3600 OBSERVATORY AVE., MT. LOOKOUT, (513) 221-2610, PREMIERPARKEVENTS.COM Capacity: Up to 600 Room cost/deposit: $1,400 Monday–Thursday; $2,800 Friday–Sunday and holidays; waterfall landscape area additional $250/$500 deposit Food cost/ person: List of preferred caterers, reference website Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable BB RIVERBOATS

101 RIVERBOAT ROW, NEWPORT, (859) 261-8500, BBRIVERBOATS.COM, CURRENT-CATERING.COM

PHOTOGRAPH BY ELEVEN:11 PHOTOGRAPHY

VENUE SPOTLIGHT

VENUES Capacity: 30–1,000 Room cost/deposit: Based on number of guests and menu/$100 nonrefundable deposit, 1/3 upon booking Food cost/ person: $31–$75 Cancellation policy: Notice more than 90 days prior to event, 50 percent refund; nonrefundable inside of 90 days

BEL-WOOD COUNTRY CLUB

5873 LUDLUM RD., MORROW, (513) 899-3361 EXT. 125, BELWOODCC.COM Capacity: Up to 300 Room cost/ deposit: Varies; please call for accurate pricing information Food cost/person: Accommodations for any budget Cancellation policy: Please call

BEHRINGER-CRAWFORD MUSEUM

1600 MONTAGUE RD., DEVOU PARK, COVINGTON, (859) 491-4003, BCMUSEUM.ORG Capacity: Up to 100, varies depending on location, please call Room cost/deposit: Please call Food cost/ person: Varies/preferred caterers Cancellation policy: Please call

THE BENCHMARK

433 JOHNSON ST., COVINGTON, (859) 491-2987, THEBENCHMARKNKY.COM Capacity: 275 main floor; 100 upstairs Room cost/deposit: Included in per-person package pricing/$500 deposit Food cost/person: $29.75–$39.75 Cancellation policy: Please call

THE BELL EVENT CENTRE

444 READING RD., OVER-THE-RHINE, (513) 852-2787, BELLEVENTCENTRE.COM Capacity: Up to 300 seated Room cost/deposit: Please call Food cost/person: $40–$75 Cancellation policy: Please call

JEFF RUBY’S CARLO & JOHNNY

9769 MONTGOMERY RD., MONTGOMERY, (513) 936-8600, JEFFRUBY.COM Capacity: 10–75 for private dining rooms Room cost/deposit: Minimum food and beverage/deposit varies Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Varies

BELTERRA CASINO RESORT

777 BELTERRA DR., FLORENCE, INDIANA, (812) 427-7841, BELTERRACASINO.COM Capacity: Up to 1,500 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/ person: $30 and up Cancellation policy: Please call

negotiable Food cost/person: Varies based on menu selection Cancellation policy: 90 days or less, no refund THE CELESTIAL STEAKHOUSE

1071 CELESTIAL ST., MT. ADAMS, (513) 241-4455, THECELESTIAL.COM Capacity: Single dining room 10–200; multiple dining rooms 180 Room cost: $750–$3,250 Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Full refund within 90 days THE CENTER

115 E. FIFTH ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 824-7274, THECENTER CINCINNATI.COM Capacity: 350 banquet seating Room cost/deposit: Please call/$500 Food cost/person: Outside catering Cancellation policy: Full refund within 180 days THE CHART HOUSE

405 RIVERBOAT ROW, NEWPORT, (859) 261-0300, CHART-HOUSE.COM Capacity: Up to 250 for rehearsal dinner Food cost/person: $33.95–$54.95 Cancellation policy: Must provide 72 hours notice

CELEBRATION CRUISE LINE

848 ELM ST., KY-PORT OF CINCINNATI, LUDLOW, (859) 581-2600, CELEBRATIONRIVERBOATS.COM Capacity: 30–380 passengers; 30–180 during colder months Room cost/deposit: Varies/deposit

Wedding Day Masterpiece at the TAFT MUSEUM OF ART

CINCINNATI AIRPORT MARRIOTT

2395 PROGRESS DR., HEBRON, (859) 334-4610, CINCIN NATIAIRPORTMARRIOTT.COM Capacity: 500 Room cost/deposit: $500 deposit Food cost/person:

CEREMONIES RECEPTIONS REHEARSAL DINNERS

316 Pike Street Downtown Cincinnati (513) 684-4523 taftmuseum.org

Photo by Sherri Barber Photography

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$40–$100 Cancellation policy: Six months notice prior to event or deposit is forfeited CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM

953 EDEN PARK DR., EDEN PARK, (513) 639-2995, CINCINNATIARTMUSEUM.ORG Capacity: 160 seated with dance floor; 220 standing reception-style Room cost/deposit: $6,000 (discount for fewer than 100 guests)/$1,000 deposit Food cost/person: $90–$150 Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable CINCINNATI CLUB BUILDING

30 GARFIELD PLACE, DOWNTOWN, (513) 241-3464, CINCINNATICLUB.US Capacity: 10–1,000 Room cost/deposit: $500–$1,500 Food cost/person: $28 and up Cancellation policy: Nonrefund-

CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER AT UNION TERMINAL

1301 WESTERN AVE., QUEENSGATE, (513) 621-3326, CINCYMUSEUM.ORG Capacity: Up to 800 for dinner and dancing Room cost/deposit: $200–$2,000/50 percent of estimated event cost for deposit Food cost/person: $20 and up Cancellation policy: Please call CINCINNATI OBSERVATORY CENTER

3489 OBSERVATORY PLACE, MT. LOOKOUT, (513) 321-5186, CINCINNATIOBSERVATORY.ORG Capacity: Indoor sit-down 50; cocktail 75 Room cost/deposit: $850–$1,700, depending on facilities used/50 percent nonrefundable deposit Food cost/ person: Outside catering Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable

able unless the room is rebooked

10 W. RIVERCENTER BLVD., COVINGTON, (859) 261-2900, CINCINNATIMARRIOTTRIVERCENTER.COM Capacity: 320 Covington Ballroom; 100 Riverview Room cost/deposit: $1,000–$1,500 minimum for main ballroom/$1,000 deposit Food cost/ person: $50–$90; wedding packages available Cancellation policy: Contractual

THE CLIFTON HOUSE

500 TERRACE AVE., CLIFTON, (513) 221-7600, THECLIFTON HOUSE.COM Capacity: 70 Room cost/deposit: Please call Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable CONEY ISLAND’S MOONLITE GARDENS

6201 KELLOGG AVE., ANDERSON TWP., (513) 232-6701, CONEYISLANDPARK.COM Capacity: 150–400 and up Room cost/deposit: Varies/$2,000 deposit upon signed contract Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER

THE CINCINNATIAN HOTEL CINCINNATI MARRIOTT AT RIVERCENTER

deposit: Package pricing/$1,500 deposit Food cost/person: Buffets starting at $24.95; sitdown dinners starting at $26.95 Cancellation policy: Please call

601 VINE ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 381-3000, CINCINNATIAN HOTEL.COM Capacity: 90 seated, 150 standing Room cost/deposit: $400/deposit included Food cost/person: Varies by menu Cancellation policy: Must provide 30 days notice CINTAS CENTER AT XAVIER UNIVERSITY

1624 HERALD AVE., NORWOOD, (513) 745-3428, CINTAS CENTER.COM Capacity: Up to 650 Room cost/

44 E. SIXTH ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 345-8415, CONTEM PORARYARTSCENTER.ORG/RENT Capacity: Varies Room cost/deposit: Rental fees are determined by number of guests Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Please call COOPER CREEK EVENT CENTER

4040 COOPER RD., BLUE ASH, (513) 745-8596, COOPER CREEKBLUEASH.COM Capacity: 350 Room cost/

STATELY ELEGANCE, MODERN FLAIR. Seamlessly blending classic opulence and contemporary elegance, The Renaissance® Cincinnati Downtown Hotel features breathtaking 40-ft. domed ceilings, setting an unforgettable stage for the day of your dreams.

To start planning: 513.333.0000, RenaissanceCincinnati.com © 2016 Renaissance Holdings, Inc.

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VENUES deposit: Varies/$1,000 nonrefundable deposit Food cost/person: Varies; beverage packages $17–$31 Cancellation policy: Six months notice, nonrefundable deposit plus additional $1,000; less than three months notice, 100 percent of minimum required spending CROWNE PLAZA CINCINNATI BLUE ASH

5901 PFEIFFER RD., BLUE ASH, (513) 936-3313, CROWNE PLAZA.COM/BLUEASH Capacity: 250–300 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/person: $25.95–$38.95 Cancellation policy: $500 nonrefundable deposit DAVE AND BUSTER’S

11775 COMMONS DR., SPRINGDALE, (513) 671-5501, DAVEANDBUSTERS.COM Capacity: 10–2,000 Room cost/deposit: $50–$400/deposit 50 percent of subtotal Food cost/person: $17.99–$74.99 Cancellation policy: Please call THE DAYTON ART INSTITUTE

456 BELMONTE PARK N., DAYTON, (937) 223-5277, DAYTONARTINSTITUTE.ORG Capacity: 250–300 for seated dinner Room cost/deposit: $3,400 for four hours/$600 for additional rooms and hours Food cost/person: Please call Cancella-

tion policy: 50 percent deposit refund if within 90 days DESTINYS CATERING INC. AT MOLLOY’S ON THE GREEN

10 ENFIELD ST., GREENHILLS, (513) 851-5434, DESTINYS CATERINGATMOLLOYSONTHEGREEN.COM Capacity: 250 with dance floor, 300 without dance floor Room cost/deposit: $600 deposit Food cost/ person: $23.95–$28.95 all-inclusive Cancellation policy: Deposit refundable if rebooked DONAUSCHWABEN HALL

4290 DRY RIDGE RD., COLERAIN TWP., (513) 385-2098, DONAUSCHWABEN.COM Capacity: Small hall 125, large hall 400 Room cost/deposit: Small hall deposit $300, large hall deposit $500 Food cost/person: Small hall $11–$13 per person, third party catering permitted; large hall food pricing package starts at 150 guests, then in 50-person increments up to 400 Cancellation policy: Eight months prior to event, deposit nonrefundable DOUBLETREE BY HILTON CINCINNATI AIRPORT

2826 TERMINAL DR., HEBRON, (859) 371-6166, CINCIN NATIAIRPORT.DOUBLETREE.COM Capacity: 350 with

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dance floor Room cost/deposit: No rental fee/$1,000 deposit Food cost/person: $22.95 and up Cancellation policy: 60 days notice DREES PAVILION AT DEVOU MEMORIAL OVERLOOK

790 PARK LANE, COVINGTON, (859) 431-2577, DREES PAVILION.COM Capacity: 300 with dance floor, 350 without Room cost/deposit: $4,000– $6,000/$1,000 deposit Food cost/person: Varies depending on caterer Cancellation policy: 90 days notice prior to event, all money returned less $500 DUKE ENERGY CONVENTION CENTER

525 ELM ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 419-7300, DUKE-ENERGYCENTER.COM Capacity: 2,400 entire ballroom Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/ person: Varies Cancellation policy: Varies EMBASSY SUITES CINCINNATI RIVERCENTER

10 E. RIVERCENTER BLVD., COVINGTON, (859) 261-8400, EMBASSYSUITESRIVERCENTER.COM Capacity: Up to 220 Room cost/deposit: Food and beverage minimum, average $7,000–$10,000/$500 deposit Food cost/person: $48–$62 Cancella-

tion policy: Sliding scale based on cancellation date FAIRFIELD BANQUET AND CONVENTION CENTER AT TORI’S STATION

74 DONALD DR., FAIRFIELD, (513) 829-8400, FAIR FIELDCONVENTIONCTR.COM Capacity: Diamond Room 250, Ruby Room 600, Sapphire Room 300 Room cost/deposit: Varies/$500 deposit Food cost/person: $20.95–$29.95 Cancellation policy: $500 deposit required, nonrefundable after 72 hours THE FARM

239 ANDERSON FERRY RD., DELHI, (513) 922-7020, THEPLACETOPARTY.COM Capacity: Up to 600 Room cost/deposit: Included in package price/$300–$800 deposit Food cost/person: $22–$32 Cancellation policy: Must provide six months notice or resell date with same number of guests

cost/person: Varies; Coach House Catering Cancellation policy: Up to 60 days before date THE FLORENTINE EVENT CENTER

8605 HAINES DR., FLORENCE, (859) 412-0471, THEFLORENTINEEVENTCENTER.COM Capacity: 275 Room cost/deposit: Included in package/$500 deposit Food cost/person: $25–$54 all-inclusive Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable

101 S. MONUMENT AVE., HAMILTON, (513) 863-8873, COACHHOUSECATERING.COM Capacity: Ballroom 200; Vista Room 80, no sound system Room cost/deposit: $300 and up/$800 deposit Food

FRENCH HOUSE

3012 SECTION RD., AMBERLEY VILLAGE, (513) 221-2610, PREMIERPARKEVENTS.COM Capacity: Gazebo 500, Sunken Garden 200, French House 125–500 Room cost/deposit: $1,400 Monday–Thursday, $2,800 Friday–Sunday and holidays/$500 deposit Food cost/person: List of preferred caterers, reference website Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable

1622 DIXIE HWY., PARK HILLS, (859) 442-7776, MCHALESCATERING.COM Capacity: Vista Room 350, Arbor Room 300 Room cost/deposit: Included in package/$1,000 deposit Food cost/person: $27–$54 all-inclusive Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable

425 OAK ST., CLIFTON, (513) 221-2610, PREMIER PARKEVENTS.COM Capacity: Up to 150 Room cost/ deposit: $1,500 Friday–Sunday, $800 Monday– Thursday/deposit included in room cost Food cost/person: List of preferred caterers, reference website Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable GLENDALE LYCEUM

THE GARDENS OF PARK HILLS FITTON CENTER FOR CREATIVE ARTS

GIBSON HOUSE

865 CONGRESS AVE., GLENDALE, (513) 771-8383, GLENDALELYCEUM.COM Capacity: Up to 250 seated Room cost/deposit: $4,000 plus tax Friday, $5,100 plus tax Saturday/$1,000 deposit plus tax Food cost/person: Outside catering Cancellation policy: 50 percent refund if rebooked THE GLENLARY ESTATE

PARIS, KENTUCKY, (305) 968-3075, GLENLARYESTATE. COM Capacity: Outdoor venue 400–500 Room cost/deposit: Varies per package/30–50 percent, based on overall contract Food cost/ person: Varies Cancellation policy: Please call THE GOLDEN LAMB INN

27 S. BROADWAY, LEBANON, (513) 932-5065, GOLDENLAMB.COM Capacity: Up to 80 seated Room cost/deposit: Food and beverage

Proudly Providing the Greater Cincinnati Area with the finest food and exceptional service since 1996

We pride ourselves in using our creativity, talents and 120-plus years of combined experience in the hospitality industry to help create wonderful memories and spectacular events.

We proudly operate Molloy’s on the Green and are proud to be one of three Exclusive Caterers at Ronald Reagan Lodge at Voice of America Park.

Our services also travel to any location in the Cincinnati area.

www.destinyscatering.com www.destinyscateringatmolloysonthegreen.com Visit us online or call 513-851-5434 for more information

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VENUES minimum/please call Food cost/ person: $10–$50 Cancellation policy: Refundable if cancelled two months prior to event date

459-7711 EXT. 123, HERITAGECLUB.COM Capacity: Up to 180 Room cost/ deposit: $2,100/$1,500 deposit Food cost/person: $29 and up Cancellation policy: Please call for details

THE GRAND BALLROOM

6 E. FIFTH ST., COVINGTON, (859) 442-7776, MCHALESCATERING.COM Capacity: Up to 370 Room cost/deposit: Varies/$1,500–$2,500 deposit Food cost/ person: $34–$62 all-inclusive Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable GREAT AMERICAN BALL PARK

100 JOE NUXHALL WAY, DOWNTOWN, (513) 765-7237, REDS.COM/EVENTS Capacity: Seated with dance floor 450, standing reception 5,000 Room cost/deposit: Please call Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Please call GREAT WOLF LODGE

SWEET VICTORY

Sample loads of desserts as you watch a live cake decorating competition. This sweet event is just in time for Valentine’s Day, and it may even inspire you as you plan your wedding dessert menu. Sweet Victory takes place Feb. 1 at the Cooper Creek Event Center in Blue Ash. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Call (513) 562-2777 for more information.

2501 GREAT WOLF DR., MASON, (513) 229-5817, GREATWOLF.COM/MEETINGS Capacity: Up to 660 seated Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/person: $28 and up Cancellation policy: Please call GREEN DIAMOND GALLERY

9366 MONTGOMERY RD., MONTGOMERY, (513) 984-4192, GREENDIAMONDGALLERY.COM Capacity: 10–125 Room cost/deposit: $1,500 nonmembers, $750 members/50 percent deposit on date reserved Food cost/person: $15–$50 for preferred caterer Cancellation policy: 30 days notice GREENACRES ARTS CENTER

8400 BLOME RD., INDIAN HILL, (513) 793-2787, GREEN-ACRES.ORG Capacity: Indoor 120, tented outdoor 400 Room cost/ deposit: Please call Food cost/person: Varies/preferred caterer list Cancellation policy: Nonrefundable within nine months of event HAMPTON INN & SUITES UPTOWN UNIVERSITY

3024 VINE ST., CORRYVILLE, (513) 281-2700, CVGUP.HAMPTONINN.COM Capacity: 50 banquet-style Room cost/deposit: $300–$500/no deposit Food cost/ person: Outside catering Cancellation Policy: Day prior to event HEATHERWOODE GOLF CLUB

88 HEATHERWOODE BLVD., SPRINGBORO, (937) 748-3222, HEATHERWOODEGC.COM Capacity: Up to 200 Room cost/deposit: Varies/$600 to hold room Food cost/ person: $19.50–$31 Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable HERITAGE CLUB

6690 HERITAGE CLUB DR., MASON, (513)

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HILTON CINCINNATI AIRPORT

7373 TURFWAY RD., FLORENCE, (859) 371-4400, CINCINNATIAIRPORT.HILTON.COM Capacity: Up to 220 Room cost/deposit: Room fee waived/$1,000 deposit Food cost/person: $50, includes four-hour bar, cheese and cracker display, and champagne toast for bridal party Cancellation policy: Based on cancellation date HILTON CINCINNATI NETHERLAND PLAZA

35 W. FIFTH ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 421-9100, CINCINNATINETHERLANDPLAZA.HILTON. COM Capacity: 20–750 Room cost/ deposit: None with food and beverage minimum/$3,500 deposit Food cost/ person: Varies Cancellation policy: Varies HOLIDAY INN & ROBERTS CONVENTION CENTRE

123 GANO RD., WILMINGTON, (937) 283-3272, ROBERTSCENTRE.COM Capacity: Up to 5,000 Room cost/deposit: Based on food and beverage/deposit varies Food cost/person: $20–$100 Cancellation policy: Varies HYATT REGENCY CINCINNATI

151 W. FIFTH ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 579-1234, CINCINNATI.HYATT.COM Capacity: Varies Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/ person: Varies Cancellation policy: Please call IVY HILLS COUNTRY CLUB

7711 IVY HILLS BLVD., ANDERSON TWP., (513) 561-9119, IVYHILLSCOUNTRYCLUB.COM Capacity: 220 Room cost/deposit: Please call/$1,500 deposit Food cost/ person: Varies Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable JEFF RUBY’S STEAKHOUSE

700 WALNUT ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 784-1200, JEFFRUBY.COM Capacity: 50 Room cost/ deposit: Minimum food and beverage/deposit varies Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Varies THE KOLPING CENTER

10235 MILL RD., SPRINGFIELD TWP., (513) 851-7951, KOLPINGCENTER.COM Capacity: 100–700 Room cost/deposit: Included in food price/$750 deposit Food cost/person: $27.50–$60 Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable/ full refund if date rebooked

Clockwise, from top left: Old Hickory Barn, Ivy Hills Country Club, Ohio Barn Bed & Breakfast, Ault Park

P H O T O G R A P H S B Y ( C L O C K W I S E ) L A U R E N D I F U LV I O P H O T O G R A P H Y / J O N AT H A N G I B S O N P H O T O G R A P H Y / S A M A N T H A’ S S T U D I O P H O T O G R A P H Y / F Y R E F LY P H O T O G R A P H Y

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VENUES KRIPPENDORF LODGE AT CINCINNATI NATURE CENTER

MARRIOTT KINGSGATE CONFERENCE CENTER

ROWE WOODS, 4949 TEALTOWN RD., MILFORD, (513) 5521340 EXT. 24, CINCYNATURE.ORG Capacity: 225 Room cost/deposit: $2,750 Friday, $3,350 Saturday,

151 GOODMAN DR., CLIFTON, (513) 487-3891, MARRIOTT. COM/CVGKG Capacity: 300 with a dance floor Room cost/deposit: Room fee included with

$2,650 Sunday/$800 deposit Friday or Sunday, $1,000 deposit Saturday Food cost/person: $60–$80 all-inclusive Cancellation policy: Portion of initial deposit is nonrefundable

all wedding packages; 20 percent advance deposit due at contract signing Food cost/ person: $68–$72 plus service charge and tax Cancellation policy: Sliding scale based on cancellation date

NATIONAL UNDERGROUND RAILROAD FREEDOM CENTER

50 E. FREEDOM WAY, DOWNTOWN, (513) 621-3326, FREEDOMCENTER.ORG Capacity: Grand Hall 300, Everyday Freedom Heroes Hall and Terrace 125 Room cost/deposit: Grand Hall $2,500, Everyday Freedom Heroes Hall and Terrace $1,500/ deposit is 50 percent of room rental Food cost/ person: List of preferred caterers Cancellation policy: Please call

KROHN CONSERVATORY

1501 EDEN PARK DR., MT. ADAMS, (513) 221-2610, PREMIERPARKEVENTS.COM Capacity: Varies Room cost/deposit: $1,200 Monday–Thursday; $2,000 Friday–Sunday; $2,900 Holiday Show, holidays, and International Butterfly Show/$500 deposit Food cost/person: List of preferred caterers, reference website Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable LAKE LYNDSAY RECEPTION CENTER

4845 AUSPURGER RD., HAMILTON, (513) 868-8555, LAKELYNDSAY.COM Capacity: Up to 400 Room cost/deposit: Packages vary/$500 deposit Food cost/person: Outside catering Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable LAWRENCEBURG EVENT CENTER AND DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

51 WALNUT ST., LAWRENCEBURG, (888) 274-6797, THELAWRENCEBURGEVENTCENTER.COM Capacity: Varies Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/ person: Varies Cancellation policy: Varies THE MADISON EVENT CENTER

700 & 740 MADISON AVE., COVINGTON, (859) 261-1117, THECOVINGTONMADISON.COM Capacity: Large ballroom, up to 400 Room cost/deposit: Please call Food cost/person: Please call Cancellation policy: Please call MANOR HOUSE BANQUET & CONFERENCE CENTER

7440 MASON-MONTGOMERY RD., MASON, (513) 459-0177, MANORHOUSEOHIO.COM Capacity: Up to 750 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable MAPLE RIDGE LODGE

MEADOWBROOK BANQUET CENTER

2398 VENICE BLVD., FAIRFIELD, (513) 681-2135, MEADOWBROOKBANQUETCENTER.COM Capacity: Up to 325 Room cost/deposit: $500 deposit Food cost/person: Varies based on package Cancellation policy: Refundable if rebooked

NEWPORT SYNDICATE

18 E. FIFTH ST., NEWPORT, (859) 491-8000, NEWPORTSYNDICATE.COM Capacity: 10–600 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/ person: Varies Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable NORLYN MANOR

THE MEADOWS BANQUET AND EVENT CENTER

59 E. MAIN ST./CLEVES-WARSAW PIKE, ADDYSTON, (513) 941-7638, THEMEADOWSBANQUET.COM Capacity: 100–300 Room cost/deposit: No room cost/$500 deposit Grand Ballroom, $200 deposit Victorian Room Food cost/person: $28.50 all-inclusive; no service charge Cancellation policy: Please call THE MILL RACE BANQUET CENTER AT WINTON WOODS

1515 W. SHARON RD., GREENHILLS, (513) 521-PARK, GREATPARKS.ORG Capacity: Up to 150 Room cost/deposit: None/$400 applied to food and beverages Food cost/person: $27.95 and up; gratuities not accepted Cancellation policy: Must be in writing; percentage refundable based on receipt of cancellation notice; $25 cancellation fee MILLENNIUM CINCINNATI HOTEL

150 W. FIFTH ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 352-2100, MILLENNIUMHOTELS.COM/MILLENNIUMCINCINNATI Capacity: 15–1,500 Room cost/deposit: Based on food and beverage/25 percent deposit Food cost/person: $70–$125 all-inclusive Cancellation policy: Must be made in writing; refundable minus deposit if rebooked MT. ECHO PAVILION

3040 WESTWOOD NORTHERN BLVD., MT. AIRY, (513) 221-2610, PREMIERPARKEVENTS.COM Capacity: 200 and up Room cost/deposit: $850 Mon-

251 MT. ECHO PARK DR., PRICE HILL, (513) 221-2610, PREMIERPARKEVENTS.COM Capacity: Up to 150 Room cost/deposit: $1,200 Sunday–Friday,

day–Thursday, $1,050 Friday–Sunday/$375 deposit Food cost/person: List of preferred caterers, reference website Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable; rates include $150 refundable damage deposit

$1,400 Saturday and holidays/$500 deposit Food cost/person: List of preferred caterers, reference website Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable

4440 ST. RT. 132, BATAVIA, (513) 732-9500, NORLYN MANOR.COM Capacity: Up to 700 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Refundable if rebooked OAK RIDGE LODGE

1400 OAK RIDGE RD., MT. AIRY, (513) 221-2610, PREMIERPARKEVENTS.COM Capacity: 125 and up Room cost/deposit: $780 Monday–Thursday, $980 Friday–Sunday and holidays/$375 deposit Food cost/person: List of preferred caterers, reference website Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable; rates include $150 refundable damage deposit OASIS GOLF CLUB & CONFERENCE CENTER

902 LOVELAND-MIAMIVILLE RD., LOVELAND, (513) 583-8383, OASISCONFERENCECENTER.COM Capacity: 1,000 Room cost/deposit: $350/$1,000 deposit applied to food and beverage Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable PAUL BROWN STADIUM

2 PAUL BROWN STADIUM, DOWNTOWN, (513) 455-4830, BENGALS.COM/STADIUM Capacity: 500 seated; up to 1,000 reception Room cost/deposit: Depends on package/$2,500 or $2,000 deposit, depending on city or river view Food cost/person: $50 and up Cancellation policy: Please call PEBBLE CREEK GOLF COURSE, RESTAURANT AND EVENT CENTER

9799 PRECHTEL RD., COLERAIN TWP., (513) 385-4442 EXT. 14, PEBBLECREEKGC.COM Capacity: 300 Room cost/ deposit: Varies Food cost/person: $27 and up Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable

MUSIC HALL THE MARQUISE EVENT CENTER

1016 TOWN DR., WILDER, (859) 442-7776, MCHALESCATERING.COM Capacity: Up to 450 Room cost/deposit: Included in package/$1,000– $2,000 deposit Food cost/person: $25.95–$54 all-inclusive Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable

1241 ELM ST., OVER-THE-RHINE, (513) 744-3242, CINCINNATIARTS.ORG/MUSICHALL Capacity: 100– 600 Room cost/deposit: $2,250–$5,500/50 percent deposit Food cost/person: Outside caterer needed Cancellation policy: Nonrefundable unless able to rebook the facility for the cancelled date

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PETERLOON ESTATE

8605 HOPEWELL RD., INDIAN HILL, (513) 791-7600, PETERLOON.ORG Capacity: 120 indoor seated, 150 indoor cocktail, 250 outdoor Room cost/ deposit: $6,500 for entire estate/50 percent deposit Food cost/person: Outside catering Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable

at the Blue Ash Golf Course

VENUES THE PHOENIX

812 RACE ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 721-8901, THEPHX.COM Capacity: Up to 400 Room cost/deposit: Varies/$500–$3,500 deposit Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Please call PINECROFT MANSION AT CROSLEY ESTATE

2366 KIPLING AVE., MT. AIRY, (513) 376-8163, PINECROFTMANSION.COM Capacity: 350 seated, 450 cocktails Room cost/deposit: $2,500–$9,500 depending on date/30 percent of rental cost Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Payment for event is divided in thirds; once made, payments are nonrefundable PINE LAKES LODGE

61680 BUSKIRK LANE, SALESVILLE, (740) 679-3617, PINELAKESLODGE.COM Capacity: Up to 300 Room cost/deposit: Varies/deposit varies Food cost/person: $25 and up Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable THE PINNACLE BALLROOM

6 E. FIFTH ST., COVINGTON, (859) 442-7776, MCHALESCATERING.COM Capacity: 250 Room cost/deposit: Included in package/$1,000–$2,000 deposit Food cost/ person: $31.50–$58 all-inclusive Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable THE PLANTATION CLUB AT TWIN OAKS

450 E. 43RD ST., COVINGTON, (859) 581-6410, GOLFATTWINOAKS.COM Capacity: Up to 260; indoor and outdoor ceremonies available

Room cost/deposit: $500 nonrefundable Food cost/person: $23.95–$39.95 Cancellation policy: Refundable if rebooked within six months with another wedding reception THE PRECINCT

311 DELTA AVE., COLUMBIA-TUSCULUM, (513) 3215454, JEFFRUBY.COM Capacity: Up to 75 Room cost/deposit: Minimum food and beverage/deposit varies Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Varies

RHINEGEIST

Want to celebrate your special day in a Cincinnati beer haven?

Rhinegeist has opened two new spaces for private parties and events. The first is 6,000 square feet with exposed brick and pristine pine floors under exposed wooden beams draped in twinkling lights. The second is similar but has a more industrial feel—a 2,000-square-foot room called The Annex. Both spaces include full bars Rhinegeist, with liquor, wine, and beer (up to 10 Rhinegeist beers 1910 ELM ST., OVER-THERHINE, (513) 381-1367, on tap). — D A N N I A H D A H E R RHINEGEIST.COM 9 0 C I N C I N N AT I W E D D I N G M A G A Z I N E . C O M W I N T E R 2 0 1 7

PRIME 47

580 WALNUT ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 579-0720, PRIME47CINCY.COM Capacity: 200 seated, 300 standing Room cost/deposit: Food and beverage minimum varies depending on date and number of guests/Please call Food cost/person: Average of $80 including food and alcohol Cancellation policy: Two week cancellation policy PURCELL BANQUET CENTER

3621 GLENMORE AVE., CHEVIOT, (513) 481-1925, PURCELLBANQUETCENTER.COM Capacity: Large hall 350, Pub Room 125 Room cost/deposit: Please call/$100 deposit Food cost/ person: Please call Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable

PHOTOGRAPH BY LOREN GIFFORD PHOTOGRAPHY

VENUE SPOTLIGHT

VENUES PYRAMID HILL SCULPTURE PARK

1763 HAMILTON CLEVES RD., HAMILTON, (513) 868-8336, PYRAMIDHILL.ORG Capacity: 40–500 Room cost/deposit: Depends on venue/50 percent Food cost/person: Preferred list of caterers Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable unless rebooked for similar event of the same amount QUEEN CITY RIVERBOATS

100 O’FALLON DR., DAYTON, (859) 292-8687, QUEENCITYRIVERBOATS.COM Capacity: Buffet dinner 100; cocktail party 150 Room cost/deposit: Varies/deposit $1,000–$1,500 Food cost/person: Please call Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable RECEPTIONS INC.–EASTGATE

What started as a flower farm and garden is now a charming event venue offering a barn and serene outdoor setting for Pinterestworthy gatherings, from weddings and bridal showers to birthday parties. Bonus: Owner Laura Fisher designs some beautiful blooms for your event.

9850 Schlottman Rd., Loveland, (513) 604-6561, themarmaladelily.com

RECEPTIONS INC.–ERLANGER

1379 DONALDSON HWY., ERLANGER, (859) 7462700, RECEPTIONSINC.COM Capacity: Up to 1,100 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/person: $18–$65, all-inclusive packaging Cancellation policy: None RECEPTIONS INC.–FAIRFIELD

5975 BOYMEL DR., FAIRFIELD, (513) 860-4100, RECEPTIONSINC.COM Capacity: Up to 900 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/ person: $19–$39.95 Cancellation policy: Varies RECEPTIONS INC.–LOVELAND

10681 LOVELAND MADEIRA RD., LOVELAND, (513) 697-8999, RECEPTIONSINC.COM Capacity: Up to 550 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/person: $19–$39.95 Cancellation policy: Varies RECEPTIONS INC.–S OUTHEAST INDIANA

170 COUNTRY CLUB LANE, AURORA, INDIANA, (812) 926-1747, RECEPTIONSINC.COM Capacity: Up to 385 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Varies RECEPTIONS INC.–WESTERN HILLS

3302 WESTBOURNE DR., WESTERN HILLS, (513) 922-6777, RECEPTIONSINC.COM Capacity: Up to 345 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/person: $19–$39.95 Cancellation policy: Varies THE REDMOOR

3187 LINWOOD AVE., MT. LOOKOUT, (513) 8716789, THEREDMOOR.COM Capacity: 326;

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225 seated Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/person: Please call Cancellation policy: Please call RENAISSANCE CINCINNATI DOWNTOWN

36 E. FOURTH ST., DOWNTOWN, 513-333-0000, MARRIOTT.COM/CVGBR Capacity: Burnham Hall seats up to 350 with a dance floor Room cost/deposit: Room cost waived with food and beverage minimum/20 percent of estimated total Food cost/person: Starting at $72 Cancellation policy: Sliding scale based on event date

to 1,200 Room cost/deposit: $1,400 and up/50 percent of established event fee Food cost/person: Varies; exclusively catered by Chef’s Choice, Funky’s Catering, and Elegant Fare Cancellation policy: Please call RSVP EVENT CENTER BY VILLAGE PANTRY CATERING

453 WARDS CORNER RD., LOVELAND, (513) 965-0511, RSVPEVENTCNTR.COM Capacity: Up to 400 Room cost/deposit: None/$500 deposit Food cost/ person: $29.50–$65.50 Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable; transferable to new date or gift card

THE RIVERSIDE ROOM AT THE NEWPORT AQUARIUM

1 AQUARIUM WAY, NEWPORT, (859) 815-1453, NEWPORTAQUARIUM.COM Capacity: Up

SATISFACTION YACHT CHARTERS

5819 PANAMA ST., CINCINNATI, (513) 231-9042, SATISFACTIONCRUISES.COM

PHOTOGRAPH BY LEPPERT PHOTOGRAPHY

THE MARMALADE LILY

4450 EASTGATE BLVD. SUITE J, EASTGATE, (513) 943-1888, RECEPTIONSINC.COM Capacity: Up to 650 Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/person: $19–$39.95 Cancellation policy: None

VENUES Capacity: 50–150 Room cost/deposit: Please call/$2,500 deposit Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable SAVANNAH CENTER

5533 CHAPPELL CROSSING BLVD., WEST CHESTER, (513) 860-4142, SAVANNAHCENTER.COM Capacity: Up to 1,200 Room cost/deposit: Please call/$2,500 deposit Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable SHAKER RUN GOLF CLUB

1320 GOLF CLUB DR., LEBANON, (513) 727-0007 EXT. 225, SHAKERRUNGOLFCLUB.COM Capacity: Ballroom 325, Pavilion 150 Room cost/deposit: $1,000 deposit Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable SHARONVILLE CONVENTION CENTER

11355 CHESTER RD., SHARONVILLE, (513) 771-7744, SHARONVILLECONVENTIONCENTER.COM Capacity: Up to 800 Room cost/deposit: Varies/$1,000 deposit Food cost/person: Varies by package Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable SIX ACRES BED & BREAKFAST

5350 HAMILTON AVE., COLLEGE HILL, (513) 541-0873, SIXACRESBB.COM Capacity: 50 indoor, 75–100 outdoor Room cost/deposit: $1,500 package price includes room/$500 deposit Food cost/person: $20–$25 Cancellation policy: Please call STILLMEADOW COUNTRY CLUB

1 STILLMEADOW DR., PIERCE TWP., (513) 752-6500 EXT. 11, STILLMEADOWCOUNTRYCLUB.COM Capacity: Indoor 165 Room cost/deposit: Varies/$1,000 deposit Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable STONELICK HILLS GOLF CLUB

3155 SHERILYN LANE, BATAVIA, (513) 735-4653, STONELICKHILLS.COM Capacity: 180 Room cost/ deposit: $2,500 for entire clubhouse with patio/$500 deposit Food cost/person: $25– $35 Cancellation policy: Deposit refundable if cancelled at least 180 days prior to event STONEWOOD BANQUET CENTER AT SHARON WOODS

11555 SWING RD., SHARON WOODS, (513) 521-PARK, GREATPARKS.ORG Capacity: 135 Room cost/ deposit: $750 Saturday, $500 Sunday and Friday, plus beverage package purchase; $400 down payment saves the date; rental fee balance due 10 days prior to event Food cost/person: Outside catering; please call for further term details Cancellation policy: Must be in writing; percentage refundable based on receipt of cancellation notice; $25 cancellation fee SWEETWINE BANQUET CENTER AT WOODLAND MOUND

600 NORDYKE RD., CINCINNATI, (513) 521-PARK, GREATPARKS.ORG Capacity: 150 Room cost/

deposit: $500–$750 plus choice of beverage package; $400 down payment saves the date; rental fee balance due 10 days prior to event Food cost/person: Outside catering; please call for further term details Cancellation policy: Must be in writing; refundable if rebooked; $25 cancellation fee

THE WESTIN CINCINNATI

21 E. FIFTH ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 621-7700, WESTIN.COM/ CINCINNATI Capacity: Up to 1,000 depending on setup Room cost/deposit: Varies Food cost/ person: Varies Cancellation policy: Advance deposit nonrefundable WIEDEMANN HILL MANSION

SYCAMORE CENTER

4455 CARVER WOODS RD., BLUE ASH, (513) 686-1004, SYCAMORESENIORCENTER.ORG Capacity: 229 dining, 490 seated Room cost/deposit: Wedding packages from $1,200 to $1,500 Food cost/ person: Varies Cancellation policy: 14 days prior to event TAFT MUSEUM OF ART

316 PIKE ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 684-4523, TAFTMUSEUM. ORG Capacity: Up to 220 Room cost/deposit: Tent $5,000/$1,000 deposit Food cost/person: Preferred caterer list Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable THEODORE M. BERRY INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP PARK PAVILION

1101 RIVERSIDE DR., DOWNTOWN, (513) 221-2610, PREMIERPARKEVENTS.COM Capacity: Up to 120 Room cost/deposit: $1,200 Monday–Thursday, $1,400 Friday–Sunday and holidays/$500 deposit Food cost/person: Preferred caterer list Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable TRADITIONS GOLF CLUB

2035 WILLIAMS RD., HEBRON, (859) 586-6691, TRADITIONSGOLFCLUB.COM Capacity: Up to 150 Room cost/deposit: Please call Food cost/ person: Varies Cancellation policy: 30 days prior to event TRIO BISTRO

7565 KENWOOD RD., KENWOOD, (513) 984-1905, TRIOBIS TRO.COM Capacity: Up to 70 Room cost/deposit: No room charge; food and beverage minimum varies Food cost/person: Various event menus to accommodate all budgets Cancellation policy: Within one week of date, 50 percent of minimum; within three days of the date, 100 percent of minimum VINOKLET WINERY

11069 COLERAIN AVE., COLERAIN TWP., (513) 385-9309, VINOKLETWINES.COM Capacity: Up to 155 Room cost/deposit: Package is $54.95 per person plus tax and gratuity/$500 deposit Food cost/ person: Included in package price Cancellation policy: Please call WEST BADEN SPRINGS HOTEL

8538 W. BADEN AVE., WEST BADEN SPRINGS, INDIANA, (812) 936-5877, FRENCHLICK.COM/HOTELS/WESTBADEN Capacity: 10–1,500 Room cost/deposit: Available upon request/20 percent of expected total Food cost/person: $270–$310; inclusive Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable

1102 PARK AVE., NEWPORT, (859) 655-9018, WHILLMANSION.COM Capacity: 60 seated dinner Room cost/deposit: Call for details Food cost/person: Outside catering Cancellation policy: Full refund of deposit amount (less 15 percent processing fee) if at least nine months prior to event date; 50 percent refund if at least six months prior to event date WINGATE BY WYNDHAM & MERIDIAN CONFERENCE CENTER

7500 TYLERS PLACE BLVD., WEST CHESTER, (513) 7771101, MERIDIANCONFERENCE.COM Capacity: Up to 300 without dance floor; up to 250 with dance floor Room cost/deposit: No room cost for wedding packages/deposit varies; food and beverage minimums for Friday and Saturday events Food cost/person: $25–$45 Cancellation policy: Must provide four weeks notice prior to event; request sample contract for specific details WEDDINGS AT WITHROW NATURE PRESERVE

7075 FIVE MILE RD., ANDERSON TWP., (513) 521-PARK, GREATPARKS.ORG Capacity: Up to 100 Room cost/deposit: $395 rental fee for four hours Food cost/person: See Sweetwine Banquet Center at Woodland Mound for reception information Cancellation policy: Must be in writing; percentage refundable based on receipt of cancellation notice; $25 cancellation fee THE WOODLANDS CRYSTAL ROOM

11450 SEBRING DR., FOREST PARK, (513) 742-8400, THEWOODLANDSHALL.COM Capacity: Up to 290 Room cost/deposit: Included in rental price/$500 deposit Food cost/person: $20.95–$35.95 Cancellation policy: Refundable deposit if rebooked THE WOODLANDS

9680 CILLEY RD., CLEVES, (513) 353-2593, THEWOODLANDSHALL.COM Capacity: Up to 1,000 Room cost/deposit: Room cost included in per-person cost/$500 deposit Food cost/ person: $20.95–$35.95 Cancellation policy: Deposit refundable if rebooked WUNDERLAND BANQUET HALL

7881 COLERAIN AVE., COLERAIN TWP., (513) 931-2261, WUNDERLANDHALL.COM Capacity: 75–380 Room cost/deposit: All-inclusive packages/$750 deposit Food cost/person: $25–$48 Cancellation policy: Deposit nonrefundable

W I N T E R 2 0 1 7 C I N C I N N AT I W E D D I N G M A G A Z I N E . C O M 9 3

DRINK

Mix It Up

Looking for a twist on the champagne toast? These days it’s all about the signature cocktail. If you want to raise one at your reception, choose a concoction that speaks to your style as a couple— and also to the season. Chris Brown, beverage manager at Metropole at the 21c Museum Hotel, created his favorite drinks for keeping guests refreshed, whether it’s warm or cold. Cheers!

BOURBON, GINGER BEER SYRUP, SODA, RED WINE. “There’s something synonymous about cold weather and bourbon.

The bourbon is paired with a spicy ginger beer that helps warm the body. To balance out this warming yet refreshing cocktail, red wine is floated on top.”

BERRY AMUSING VODKA, MIXED BERRY SHRUB. “As the world thaws out, we start daydreaming of fresh fruits.

One of the things we love the most is fresh/ sweet/ juicy berries.

With this cocktail, we keep it simple. We want the ripeness of the berries to shine.”

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THE DL BLANCO TEQUILA, GRAPEFRUIT SHRUB, SODA. “Two of my favorite summer cocktails are the classic margarita and the lesser known Paloma (tequila and grapefruit soda).

This combines those two drinks in refreshing reflection of summer time sipping.”

WISE WORDS SAGE-APPLE-PEAR SYRUP, PROSECCO. “I don’t think there’s any one alcohol that lends itself to celebrations like bubbles.

We use prosecco in this cocktail and mix it with a syrup made of classic fall flavors: sage, apple, and pear.”

PHOTOGRAPHS BY LUANNE DEMEO

I CO N S BY A R T-S O N I K /S H U T T ER S TO C K

EVER AFTER

C AT E R E R S FUNKY’S CATERING & EVENT SERVICES

1761 TENNESSEE AVE., NORWOOD, (513) 841-9999, FUNKYSONLINE.COM Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation Policy: Varies HILVERS CATERING

2724 COLERAIN AVE., CAMP WASHINGTON, (513) 681-2135, HILVERS.COM Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation Policy: Varies JEFF THOMAS CATERING

815 OAK ST., LUDLOW, (859) 291-0286, JEFFTHOMAS CATERING.COM Food cost/person: $30 and up Cancellation Policy: One year prior, full deposit refund; six months to one year prior, deposit refund; under six months, no refund LA PETITE PIERRE

7800 CAMARGO RD., MADEIRA, (513) 527-4909, LAPETITE PIERRE.COM Food cost/person: $25 Cancellation Policy: $250 nonrefundable deposit MCHALE’S EVENTS AND CATERING

1622 DIXIE HWY., PARK HILLS, (859) 442-7776, MCHALES CATERING.COM Food cost/person: Please call Cancellation Policy: Nonrefundable MONTGOMERY INN CATERING

11314 TAMARCO DR., BLUE ASH, (513) 852-6733, MONTGOMERYINN.COM Food cost/person: $9.95–$29.95 Cancellation Policy: Flexible MPG EVENTS AND CATERING

1705 ST. RT. 28, GOSHEN, (513) 373-0009 AND (513) 722-2500, MPGEVENTSANDCATERING.COM Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation Policy: More A LA CARTE DESSERT AND CATERING

7132 MONTGOMERY RD., MONTGOMERY, (513) 891-8688, ALACARTECATERING.NET Food cost/person: Please call Cancellation Policy: No charge if rescheduled within six months A TASTE OF CLASS CATERING INC.

3415 GLENMORE AVE., WESTWOOD, (513) 481-3663, ATASTEOFCLASS.COM Food cost/person: $8–$35 and up Cancellation Policy: Flexible

PH OTO G R A PH BY SA M A NTH A’S ST UD I O PH OTO G R A PH Y

BROWN DOG CAFÉ & CATERING

5893 PFEIFFER RD., BLUE ASH, (513) 794-1610, BROWN DOGCAFE.COM Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation Policy: 10 business days prior to event CHEF’S CHOICE CATERING

11350 GROOMS RD., BLUE ASH, (513) 489-6006, CHEFSCHOICECATERING.COM Food cost/person: $25–$55 Cancellation Policy: Must provide 90 days notice prior to event for refund CINCINNATI CATERING

1320 ETHAN AVE., CAMP WASHINGTON, (513) 541-2626, CINCINNATICATERING.COM Food cost/person: $6.95–$22 Cancellation Policy: Varies COFFEE EMPORIUM

110 E. CENTRAL PKWY., DOWNTOWN, (513) 651-5483,

COFFEE-EMPORIUM.COM Food cost/person: Varies/$400 for three hours with espresso cart Cancellation Policy: At least a week in advance CURRENT CATERING BY BENSONS

101 RIVERBOAT ROW, NEWPORT, (859) 261-8500, CURRENT-CATERING.COM Food cost/person: $14.95 Cancellation Policy: Prior to 30 days, retain 50 percent of balance; after 30 days nonrefundable

than six months, full refund; one–six months, 50 percent refund; less than 30 days, no refund SPECTRA FOOD SERVICES AND HOSPITALITY AT THE DUKE ENERGY CONVENTION CENTER

525 ELM ST., DOWNTOWN, (513) 419-7250, DUKE-ENERGYCENTER.COM Food cost/person: Please call for quote Cancellation Policy: Based on timeliness of cancellation; contact Spectra for more information

DESTINYS CATERING INC. AT MOLLOY’S ON THE GREEN

10 ENFIELD ST., GREENHILLS, (513) 851-5434, DESTINYSCATERINGATMOLLOYSONTHEGREEN.COM Food cost/person: $23.95–$28.95 all-inclusive Cancellation Policy: Deposit refundable if

RAFFEL’S CATERING AND BANQUET FACILITIES

10160 READING RD., EVENDALE, (513) 563-9996, RAFFELSCATERING.COM Food cost/person: $8.75– $45 Cancellation Policy: Nonrefundable

rebooked VILLAGE PANTRY CATERING EAT WELL CELEBRATIONS AND FEASTS

921 MONMOUTH ST., NEWPORT, (859) 291-9355, EATWELLONLINE.COM Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation Policy: Full refund four weeks

453 WARDS CORNER RD., LOVELAND, (513) 965-0511, VILLAGEPANTRYCATERING.COM Food cost/person: $15–$50 Cancellation Policy: Deposit nonrefundable

prior to event VONDERHAAR’S CATERING, INC. ELEGANT FARE

2575 COMMERCE BLVD., SHARONVILLE, (513) 552-1340, ELEGANTFARE.COM Food cost/person: Varies Cancellation Policy: Please call

19 W. PLEASANT ST., READING, (513) 554-1969, VONDERHAARS.COM Food cost/person: $12.95 and up Cancellation Policy: $200 nonrefundable deposit, 50 percent refund with 30 days notice

W I N T E R 2 0 1 7 C I N C I N N AT I W E D D I N G M A G A Z I N E . C O M 9 5

J

ames Robb and Jo Ann Ellison married on December 2, 1954, at the historic Old St. George Church on Calhoun Street in Clifton Heights. The couple, shown stealing a kiss after their Idos, celebrated 59 years together. James died in 2014 and Jo Ann, now 83, lives with her son, Jim Robb, and his wife, who still have the original glossy photographs from the wedding. Just like the many couples who’ve tied the knot here over the years, the church, built in 1873, has a story to tell. After a devastating ďŹ re gutted the twin steeples nine years ago, Old St. George sat vacant until 2015, when Crossroads Church stepped up, buying the property and investing $10 million to renovate the space. Crossroads Uptown opened in August 2016, breathing new life into a building with a rich history.

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PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY JIM ROBB

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601 Main Street | Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 | 513.241.3510 www.richterphillips.com