Dayton Wedding 2020

2020

4 Dresses

Local Dream

Flowers that

POP 75+

Unique Venues

2 Real Wedding Stories Brittany and Taylor Walcutt outside The Steam Plant in Dayton. Photo: Carrs & Co Photography House

Canopy Creek Farm A Country Chic Venue

Canopy Creek Farm offers a unique country setting for any special occasion.

Located in historic Miamisburg, Ohio

Weddings • Corporate Events • Fundraisers Graduation Parties • Holiday and Family Events 600 Benner Road • Miamisburg, OH 45342 937-602-5867 • canopycreekfarm.com

Benham’s Grove is a 19th century farmhouse, cottage, barn and gazebo nestled in the heart of Centerville (937) 433-1913 • benhamsgrove.com

The Best of Centerville

Yankee Trace features a stunning 32,000 square foot clubhouse that transforms into a luxurious wedding chapel (937) 438-4653 • Yankeetrace.org PHOTOS BY: CHILDERS PHOTOGRAPHY

2020

4 Divine Dresses We spoke with four local brides to learn more about their dresses and why they were perfect for them.

BY THE EDITORS

8 Scene Two couples share pictures from their special day.

10 Venues The Miami Valley offers a plethora of unique wedding reception facilities, plus listings.

BY KEVIN MICHELL

18 Catering Miami Valley caterers say couples are asking for unique and fun menus for their big day.

BY TIM WALKER

20 Rentals The growth and expansion of the Dayton rental market gives couples many ways to personalize their wedding.

BY GINNY MCCABE

23 Flowers Trusting your florist can make your wedding pop with color.

BY BETH LANGEFELS

24 Photography Finding the right wedding photographer is key for getting the photos you desire.

BY CORINNE MINARD

27 Service Directory 33 Wedding Checklist

Kiersten and Tyler Robinson at Beavercreek Golf Club Photo By Maxim Photo Studio

Publisher: Eric Harmon Editor: Eric Spangler Sales Executives: Abbey Cummins, Brad Hoicowitz, Neena Vazquez, Katelynn Webb Publication Designer: Becky Mengel Freund Creative Director: Guy Kelly Production Manager: Keith Ohmer Advertising Manager: Laura Federle Audience Development Coordinator: Nakya Grisby

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Contact Dayton Magazine 714 East Monument Ave. Suite 132 Dayton, OH 45402 thedaytonmagazine.com information@thedaytonmagazine.com (937) 329-9060

Locally, Family & Veteran owned

D ivi ne WE CONTACTED FOUR LOCAL BRIDES TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THEIR WEDDING DRESSES AND WHY THEY WERE PERFECT FOR THEM

Allison Veryser Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee Wedding Location: Dayton Metro Library The dress: Designed by Eddy K, bought online from BHLDN Why this dress: I was looking for something classic, simple and elegant. This dress stood out to me from the beginning before even trying it on. I loved the train paired with the lace back. The simple straps and plunging neckline were perfect for a summer wedding.

I also wanted a simple, low-key dress-shopping experience and I loved shopping with BHLDN. Their customer service is great, shipping was quick and it was easy and stress-free to try dresses on at home without the pressure of a bridal boutique experience. Tracy’s Sewing Studio did my alterations.

Photo: Chelsea Hall Photography

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Molly Miklasevich Hometown: Dayton Wedding Location: Dayton Country Club The dress: The dress is the designer Private Collection, and I purchased it from Lillian’s Bridal in town—they knew exactly what I was going for.

Why this dress: This was exactly the dress I kept describing— sweetheart neckline, vintage buttons down the back, all over lace and just a hint of mermaid.

The lace on the dress was a perfect match to the lace on my mother’s veil that I wore.

Photo: Chelsea Hall Photography

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Yaimarie Queeman Soto Hometown: Bayamon, Puerto Rico Wedding Location: Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at the University of Dayton The dress: A Galina Signature bought at David’s Bridal in Cincinnati Why this dress: Funny story. I was at David’s Bridal just looking around to get the sense of what type of colors I wanted for the bridesmaids and then decided to try on wedding dresses to figure out what “my style” was. I was brought my dress because one of the ones I picked wasn’t available and the attendant thought I might like it.

Second dress I ever tried on and I just knew it was the one! After going to eight more stores to make sure I went back and ordered the dress.

Photo: Kevin Lush Photography

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Michele Smith Hometown: Dayton Wedding Location: Christ United Methodist Church in Kettering The dress: I bought my dress and veil at Louise Christine Bridal Boutique in Oakwood, Ohio, and the designer of the dress is Essense of Australia Why this dress: My mom actually picked out my dress. I wasn’t sure if I liked it, but when I put it on I didn’t want to take it off. It was the perfect mix of elegance and flair. It made me feel so beautiful and so excited to marry my best friend.

Photo: Chelsea Hall Photography

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7

LO CA L W E D D I N G S

Yaimarie Queeman Soto and Josh Kern

They have lived in four different states together but always felt like the University of Dayton is their home. So when Yaimarie Queeman Soto and Josh Kern, who met as resident assistants at the University of Dayton more than seven years ago, decided to get married they knew the event had to take place in the Gem City.

The wedding ceremony was conducted at the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at the University of Dayton and the couple had their reception at The Galleria at The Event Connections. “The location is managed by Event Connections, a wedding planning business here in Dayton. Since we live in Texas now their knowledge of Dayton vendors came in very handy,” says Queeman Soto. “They also provided a day-off team and included catering and decorations in their packages. The reception was absolutely amazing and magical and I couldn’t have done it without the team at the venue.”

Photos: Kevin Lush Photography 8

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Michele and Keith Smith

The location of Michele Smith’s wedding ceremony was never in doubt. Smith, who grew up going to church at Christ United Methodist Church in Kettering, had no other place in mind for her wedding ceremony.

“I grew up in this church and had always dreamed of getting married there,” she says. The reception venue, however, required a tour before a decision could be made.

But once Smith saw Magnolia Estate in Miamisburg she knew it would be the perfect venue for a reception. “As soon as we walked into the venue for a tour I could picture our wedding there,” she says.

“There was a grand staircase that we got to walk down as we entered the reception and it made me feel like a princess. The venue was outdoor/indoor so there were many locations for guests to celebrate.”

Photos: Chelsea Hall Photography

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VENUES

Space to Customize TWO DAYTON-AREA VENUES SHOW OFF THE DIVERSE OPTIONS AVAILABLE

By Kevin Michell

I

Customizing a venue creates a stunning look.

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CARRS & CO PHOTOGR APHY HOUSE

n 2009, Carli and Hamilton Dixon closed on three buildings along East Third Street they wanted to renovate into something the Dayton community could use. While each building was in a state of serious disrepair, the Dixons—and the many friends, partners and neighbors who helped them in this project—committed themselves to bringing the spaces back to life.

After several years of work and different ideas for how to use the buildings—at various times, the buildings were planned to be an artist space with community gardens or just sold after rehabilitation—the couple’s artist friends intimated their interest in renting the space for events.

That apparent interest in making the warehouse into a rentable venue was accentuated by Hamilton Dixon’s appreciation for the building’s bones.

“Walking in and seeing these hand-hewn beams from the late 1800s and just the sheer scale of them—he knew what he was looking at,” Carli recalls, “even though the Realtors would say, ‘Well, if you can figure out how to get the demo paid for it would make a good parking lot.’”

It’s been a long process of breathing new life into these buildings. In late 2018, the 18,000-square-foot building at 905 E. Third St. was officially christened The Brightside Music and Event Venue and opened to the public.

Within The Brightside are two event spaces that can be used individually or

CHILDERS PHOTOGR APHY

THE CARRS & CO PHOTOGR APHY HOUSE

By customizing a venue couples can create a look that fits their vision of that special day. in tandem. The tall, long Vodvil Ballroom comfortably seats 250 people—featuring brick walls and those same historic ceiling beams exposed to create a ceremony or reception space with a bit of edge befitting a rock show venue—whereas the smaller Brightside Bar area can hold seating for 65 or standing cocktail space for up to 110 people.

The two combined provide a trendy, varied space for both wedding ceremonies and receptions.

By design, there’s plenty of room for customization, Carli points out. The light fixtures, for example, are not permanently installed and can be removed or switched out with different lights upon request.

“That was completely with the objective of supporting wildly different visions for weddings and special events,” she says.

The Brightside Music and Event Venue has no specific vendor affiliations, allowing clients to choose their preferred caterer, florist, photographer or anything else, but it has a list of preferred vendors for any party that would like a referral.

The venue has two parking lots of its own, which can park a total of 320 vehicles.

The Brightside Bar also has its own liquor license, providing an easy option for drinks at the reception.

For Carli and Hamilton they’re happy to have this place to offer to all parts of the Dayton community and all the various ways the people within it can think to use

it for. The name itself came from a desire to break down any self-imposed divisions between neighborhoods.

“We just wanted to be The Brightside,” says Carli. “If you have good intentions, you want to get people together, this is the place to have your event. That’s sort of what’s been ringing true in the first year of operation.”

Just about 15 miles south in Miamisburg sits Canopy Creek Farm, another wedding and reception venue with a much more rustic atmosphere. Situated on a 24-acre, 150-year-old farm that owner-operators Danette and Andy Chance bought in 2012, the property offers an elegant and pastoral setting for ceremonies and celebrations to take place.

The centerpiece of the Canopy Creek Farm is the 6,300-square-foot Reception Barn, which can seat 250 in its gorgeous wood-lined interior. The barn has full heating and air conditioning so guests can experience its rustic charm comfortably at any time of year.

Close by is a separate covered patio area at the top of a hill that can be used in addition to or instead of the barn for a wedding day, as well as a paved walking path down to the property’s pond and the creek that runs near to it. Renters have full use of the entire farm allowing endless customization for outdoor wedding ceremonies. The Chances recently renovated the barn’s bride’s room while adding a new groom’s

room near the horse barn.

Though the farm’s horses aren’t really part of the average Canopy Creek Farm wedding, there have been plenty of brides and grooms wanting to integrate the curious and personable equines into photo opportunities. Plus, the entire property is pet-friendly, allowing for any other furry friends of the family to join in the celebration.

Danette Chance recalls one bride whose wedding was taking place shortly after the first horses were meant to arrive at the barn and called several times to make sure they’d be there for her ceremony.

“Spirit [one of the farm’s horses] ended up trying to eat her bouquet,” she says with a chuckle. “And she loved it, she thought that was so great.”

Canopy Creek Farm allows brides and grooms to select any vendors that fit their budget and needs but also has an impressive list of preferred providers to offer.

With so much room and potential for customizing the ceremony and reception, couples can plan their dream wedding without much worry of spatial constraints or limitations of design.

The venue is located at 600 Benner Road and can host weddings and receptions any day of the week except on major holidays.

As such, any engaged couples worried that they’re too late to reserve Canopy Creek Farm can take solace in the availability of weekdays for their special day. n DAY TO N W E D D I N G 2 0 2 0

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Local Venue Listings Venue

Contact

Max Capacity

Features

Elite Catering

225

Museum has largest collection of Packard automobiles and memorabilia in the world; main museum was built in 1917 as an original factory owned dealership, complete with a gorgeous art deco showroom; pavilion was constructed in the 1930s to expand used car sales, as well as the service department.

Arbor Hall 2150 Arbor Blvd. • Dayton, OH 45439 937-298-0803 • arborhall.com

arborhall@outlook.com

400

Features vary by room; provides list of vendors.

A Secret Garden at Weber Estates 8390 E. state Route 40 • New Carlisle, OH 45344 937-308-3318 • asecretgardenohio.com

info@ asecretgardenohio.com

230

Historic farmstead, built in 1847; listed on the US National Register of Historic Places; flexible external event space; two-story banquet hall with full facilities; ornamental pond with romantic gazebo; rural yet convenient location; party rooms with billards, karaoke.

Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm 1000 Aullwood Road • Dayton, OH 45414 937-890-7360 x214 • aullwood.org

Nenita Lapitan

176 farm; 120 nature center

B&B Riverfront Hall 16 S. Water St. • Miamisburg, OH 45342 937-604-9602 • bbriverfronthall.com

Mike Blair

250

Baum Opera House 15 S. First St. • Miamisburg, OH 45342 937-859-8120 • baumoperahouse.com

Bronwyn Peck

200 for the Ransdell Ballroom; 100 for the Templer Room

America's Packard Museum 420 S. Ludlow St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-559-4590 • americaspackardmuseum.org

Benham’s Grove 166 N. Main St. • Centerville, OH 45459 937-433-1913 • benhamsgrove.com Max Capacity: 200 Contact: Randy Bishop

Farm or nature-inspired venues available.

3,000-square-foot hardwood ballroom floor; private courtyard; can choose vendors.

Performance stage and back stage dressing area available; banquet chair and tables included in fee; no restriction on vendors; alcohol is permitted; built-in sound system.

Benham’s Grove is a 19th century farmhouse, cottage, barn and gazebo nestled in the heart of Centerville; rent the entire complex or the individual components.

Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center 1 W. Second St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-228-7591 x3628 • victoriatheatre.com

Taylor Naragon

2,000

Provide catering and banquet services; culinary team from Citilites at the Schuster Center prepares menus ranging from traditional favorites to specialty fare.

Birch Manor at Glen Helen Nature Preserve 405 Corry St. • Yellow Springs, OH 45387 937-769-1902 • glenhelen.org

Ann Simonson

125 outdoors; 40 indoors

Three-day rental only; no overnight stays; includes seven rooms in the house; pole tent, tables and chairs.

Bonnybrook Farms 3779 state Route 132 • Clarksville, OH 45113 937-289-2500 • bonnybrookfarms.com

Diane Gerspacher

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery 2600 DeWeese Parkway • Dayton, OH 45414 937-275-7431 x113 • boonshoftmuseum.org

rentals@ boonshoftmuseum.org

230 indoor; 120 additional 370 acres with post-and-beam gathering barn, woodlands, fields and ponds; seats on the wraparound wraparound, covered porch; fully equipped commercial kitchen. porch 300

Canopy Creek Farm 600 Benner Road • Miamisburg, OH 45342 937-602-5867 • canopycreekfarm.com Max Capacity: 250 Contact: Danette Chance Canyon Run Ranch 395 N. Rangeline Road • Pleasant Hill, OH 45359 937-676-2082 • ohiobarnweddings.com

Spaces for ceremonies and receptions; tables and chairs included; bridal suite; access to exhibits.

Canopy Creek Farm, a country-chic venue with multiple sites available for hosting your ceremony and reception. Nestled on a beautiful 24-acre horse farm.

Amy and Gary Ward

150

Barn and ceremony site; chairs and tables included; cocktail area; fire pit.

Cedar Springs Pavilion 7951 S. County Road 25A • Tipp City, OH 45371 937-474-3555 • cedarspringspavilion.com

Danielle Reinhard

250

Tuscan-style open-air pavilion on 17-acre nature preserve; butterfly house; reception and ceremonies spaces.

Courtyard by Marriott Springfield Downtown 100 S. Fountain Ave. • Springfield, OH 45502 937-322-3600 • marriott.com/hotels/travel/ daycs-courtyard-springfield-downtown/

Event coordinator

500

Full catering options; expert event planners; 6,500-square-foot ballroom.

Crowne Plaza Dayton 33 E. Fifth St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-224-0800 • cpdayton.com

Chante Patton

450

Overnight accomodations; appetizers available; three- to four-hour open bar; champagne toast; room rental included; upgraded linen package; rooftop area with bar and restaurant; complimentary parking; liquor license available.

Dayton Art Institute 456 Belmonte Park North • Dayton, OH 45405 937-512-0162 • daytonartinstitute.org

Kevin Tunstall

575

Rental fees include use of the facility (space rented), all tables, up to 250 chairs, as well as security and facility personnel required by The Dayton Art Institute; must be a member of The Dayton Art Institute to hold an event in the museum.

Dayton Convention Center 22 E. Fifth St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-333-4700 • daytonconventioncenter.com

dccsales@ daytonconvention center.com

6,000

Complimentary ballroom; on-site catering and event management team; complimentary sparkling cider for the head table; complimentary fruit, vegetable and cheese display; table linen; linen napkins; custom designed raised head table; dance floor; cake cutting.

events@daytonhistory. org

250

With many different venues Dayton History has breathtaking facilities that are timeless, historically groundbreaking and truly one-of-a-kind; landscaped settings offer unrivaled ambience; indoor seating for up to 250 guests.

Judy Schneider

250

Spacious, air-conditioned ballroom with bar, stage, and catering staging area; convenient free parking available.

Dayton History 100 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409 937-293-2841 • daytonhistory.org Dayton Liederkranz-Turner 1400 E. Fifth St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-223-9013 • daytongermanclub.org

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Venue

Contact

Max Capacity

Features

Dayton Masonic Center 525 W. Riverview Ave. • Dayton, OH 45405 937-559-4590 • elitecatering.com

Elite Catering

1,800

Built for elegant formal dining in the 1920s; modern amenities like air conditioning, a new ceiling treatment and LED lighting; light-colored terrazzo floors; Wi-Fi.

Dayton Metro Library 215 E. Third St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-496-8519 • daytonmetrolibrary.org

Kim Dellinger

1,500

Three spaces for receptions and weddings—Atrium, Eichelberger Forum and Bassani Theater Off Third.

Dayton Outdoor Weddings 2707 Old Troy Pike • Dayton, OH 45404 937- 479-1719 • daytonoutdoorweddings.com

John Boucuvalas

150 for Englewood; 200 for the Riverside site

Two locations; indoor and outdoor options; grand ballroom; no restricions on vendors; alcohol is permitted.

Dayton Raquet Club 40 N. Main St. • Dayton, OH 45423 • 937-224-4381 x5183 clubcorp.com/Clubs/The-Dayton-Club

Halle Perretta

250 for club, ask about other rooms

In-house catering; table and chairs provided; linens provided; dance floor; liquor license available.

Dayton Visual Arts Center 118 N. Jefferson St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-224-3822 • daytonvisualarts.org

Beth DeVilbiss

100

1,500 square feet; light-filled, urban loft-like contemporary downtown gallery; catering kitchen, table and chairs available; recommended event planners and caterers available; AV equipment; 40 chairs and six 60-inch round tables with no linens; four-hour event time, additional three hours setup, one hour cleanup.

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Dayton Miamisburg 300 Prestige Place • Miamisburg, OH 45342 937-436-2400 • doubletree3.hilton.com

Karen Cyphers

500

In-house audio and visual capabilities; dimming lights; complimentary Wi-Fi; airwall partition; dance floor; in-room bar; liquor license available; in-house catering; 3,500 square feet.

Dusty Acres Homestead 10339 Little Richmond Road • Brookville, OH 45309 937-313-8632 • dustyacreshomestead.com

Jessica Givens

225

Spans 80 acres of privately owned family farmland; features 1800s bank barn; can host rehearsal dinner, wedding and reception; lighting, tables and chairs included; golf cart rental available.

Greg Cowger

225

All-inclusive reception package; alcohol is permitted; outside caterer included in package; 3,600 square feet.

banquetcoordinator@ piquaoh.org

499

State-of-the-art facility located on the fourth floor of the newly restored Fort Piqua Plaza Hotel in downtown Piqua; six unique rooms for groups of 24 to 350 people.

Jeannette Adams

180

Outdoor and indoor reception spaces; all food is catered in-house; bridal and groom suite available.

Kim Osswald

300

Three customizable spaces; access to rental décor and furniture; bridal suite.

Heatherwoode Golf Club 88 Heatherwoode Blvd. • Springboro, OH 45066 937-748-3222 • golfheatherwoode.com

Erica Davenport

200

Indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception options; vaulted ceiling; liquor license available; in-house catering available.

Hilton Garden Inn Dayton Beavercreek 3520 Pentagon Park Blvd. • Dayton, OH 45431 937-458-2650 • hilton.com/en/hilton-garden-inn

Josie DeDominici

400

Flexible event space; wedding packages includes complimentary accommodations for the bride and groom; discounted group rates.

Holiday Inn Dayton/Fairborn I-675 2800 Presidential Drive • Fairborn, OH 45324 937-431-4602 • ihg.com/holidayinn

Kaitlyn Farmer

400

Catering options available; specializes in themed events; audio visual equipment; event planners; dance floor.

Honey Farm 6070 Springboro Road • Lebanon, OH 45036 937-557-1033 • thehoneyfarm.com

Jennifer Stanley

300

30-acre property with pond, gazebo, several barns, open fields and a creek; same owners as Lost and Found Vintage Rentals and Lost and Found Photography.

Hope Hotel & Richard C. Holbrooke Conference Center Building #823, Area A, Gate 12A • WrightPatterson Air Force Base, OH 45433 937-879-2696 • hopehotel.com

Event coordinator

1,000

20,000 square feet; catering and banquet services; special group rates for hotel rooms.

James F. Dicke Family Transportation Center 1000 Carillon Blvd. • Dayton, OH 45409 937-293-2841 x415 • daytonhistory.org/events/ private-event-rental/

Brian Cox

120

The Transportation Center is Carillon Historical Park’s most popular venue; outdoor wedding ceremonies on the nearby Morrison Bridge, cocktail hours on the outdoor patio and receptions inside the Transportation Center; 19th century parlor railcar, summer trolley and many other historic transportation artifacts.

Kettering Family Education Center 1000 Carillon Blvd. • Dayton, OH 45409 • 937-293-2841 x415 • daytonhistory.org/events/private-eventrental/

Brian Cox

130

Atrium available for banquets, receptions, meetings and more; situated below Carillon Historical Park’s wooded moraine, wide outdoor steps lead to the park's town greene; terraces offer views of the grounds surrounding Deeds Carillon.

Lostcreek Memory Barn 3360 N. state Route 589 • Casstown, OH 45312 937-875-1005 • wilhelmfamilyfarms.com

Wilhelm Family

215+

Approximately 130-year-old barn; 199 acres; ample parking; indoor and outdoor options.

Magnolia Estate 700 Benner Road • Miamisburg, OH 45342 937-269-7163 • magnoliaestate.com

Julio Gonzalez

200

All white bar and bergula; clear garage doors; cocktail bar; backlit walls; bistro lighting. Winner of theknot.com's Best of Weddings 2018 and bestthingsohio.com's Top 10 Places to Get Married in Ohio.

Maple Lane Farm 3484 E. state Route 29 • Urbana, OH 43078 855-465-2333 • maplelanefarm.org

Event Expert

300

Reception barn and greenhouse; catering; Ohio wines; after party with bonfire; round tables and white chairs; ample gravel and grass parking; golf cart trolley.

Wedding planners

800

Wedding packages and culinary creations available; certified planners; parklike; option to book a block of 10 or more rooms at special group rate.

Event Connections 4140 Linden Ave. • Dayton, OH 45432 937-254-6930 • theeventconnections.com Fort Piqua Plaza 308 N. Main St. • Piqua, OH 45356 937-773-8871 • thefortpiquaplaza.com Four Bridges Country Club 8300 Four Bridges Drive • Liberty Township, OH 45044 513-759-4620 x104 • fourbridges.com Gatherings on the Green Country Club and Event Venue 7500 Salem Road • Lewisburg, OH 45338 937-733-8783 • gatheringsonthegreen.com

Marriott at the University of Dayton 1414 S. Patterson Blvd. • Dayton, OH 45409 937-223-1000 • marriott.com/hotels/travel/ dayoh-marriott-at-the-university-of-dayton/

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L O CA L V E N U E L I S T I N G S Venue

Contact

Max Capacity

Features

Meadowbrook Golf Club 6001 Salem Ave. • Clayton, OH 45315 937-540-9685 • meadowbrookatclayton.com Max Capacity: 300 Contact: Adrian Jaqua Memorial Hall 125 E. First St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-293-2841 x415 • daytonhistory.org/events/ private-event-rental/

171-acre golf course; caterer on site; space includes all tables and chairs; rental fees are 1/2 off on Fridays.

Memorial Hall’s marble atrium can host wedding ceremonies (225 capacity), cocktail receptions or a seated reception (100 capacity); the cabaret room in the historic venue’s lower level is a blank slate, seating up to 225 wedding reception guests.

Brian Cox

225

mvgevents@mvgrllc. com

1,000

Miami Valley Hunt & Polo Club 2465 Keystone Club Drive • Dayton, OH 45439 937-949-9443 • mvhpc.com

MVHPCEvents@gmail. com

500

Colonial clubhouse surrounded by 22 acres of lawn and woods; clubhouse, features three spacious rooms: The Pub, The Legacy Room and Main Room; patio area overlooks lawn, spring-fed swimming pool and the surrounding woods.

Mills Park Hotel 321 Xenia Ave. • Yellow Springs, OH 45387 937-319-0400 • millsparkhotel.com

events@millparkhotel. com

150

28 guest rooms; Ellie's resturant with full bar; full bartenders available; inhouse catering; liquor license available; gorgeous Amish furniture; bridal suite available for 20.

NCR Country Club 4435 Dogwood Trail • Kettering, OH 45429 937-643-6913 • ncrcountryclub.com

Molly McGinnis

250 standing; 220 seating

Complete event coordination and menu planning; panoramic golf course views; highly trained staff.

Miami Valley Gaming 6000 state Route 63 • Lebanon, OH 45036 513-934-7670 • miamivalleygaming.com

Ohio Barn Bed & Breakfast 8790 Dayton-Springfield Road • Fairborn, OH 45324 937-878-8015 • ohiobarnbnb.com Old Court House 7 N. Main St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-293-2841 x415 • daytonhistory.org/events/ private-event-rental/ Orchard Lane Events 2185 state Route 235 • Xenia, OH 45385 937-736-0655 • orchardlaneevents.com

Three different venues to accommodate events up to 1,000 guests; customizable room configurations, menus and services.

Teresa Gilkerson

200

Situated on 25 acres and conveniently located just off I-675 at I-70; features a 2,400-square-foot historic barn with large entrance deck; B&B boasts two spacious guest rooms, private baths and entrances and a large Gathering Room; the Homestead, built in 1834, features four large bedrooms, three full baths, spacious kitchen and living room with two-story balcony.

Brian Cox

150

Classic rotunda is ideal for wedding ceremonies and intimate receptions; smaller Recorder’s Office is perfect for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, or a buffet station.

Maureen Johnson

125

Beautiful view overlooking Greene County; large prep kitchen and separate bar available; round tables and white folding garden chairs for guest seating available; large patio/teracce area; spacious dance floor; bridal suite available; large, well-lit parking lot.

Where Your Success Matters.

Where Your Success Matters.

Where Your Success Matters.

INDUSTRIAL CHIC VENUE IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN DAYTON •

EXPOSED BEAMS & BRICK

•

OCCUPANCY FOR 400+

•

HUGE PERFORMANCE PLATFORM

33 E 5th St. OH 45402 | cpdayton.com 33 EDayton, 5th St. Dayton, OH 45402| |937-229-0800 937-229-0800 | cpdayton.com 33 E 5th St. Dayton, OH 45402 | 937-229-0800 | cpdayton.com

thebrightsidedayton.com 937-410-0450 | thebrightsidedayton@gmail.com 14

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Venue Patton's Lodge 7562 Township Line Road • Waynesville, OH 45068 937-974-2742 • pattonslodge.com

Contact

Max Capacity

Features Dance floor; tables and chair provided; full kitchen facilities; 12-foot working water wheel/water feature; large covered deck overlooking pond; sound system; no restricitons on vendors; alcohol permitted.

Pat and Tim Patton

150

Polen Farm 5099 Bigger Road • Kettering, OH 45440 937-435-5787 • playkettering.org/polen-farm/

Beth Brubaker

165 for upper barn; 125 for house/tent area

Presidential Banquet Center 4548 Presidential Way • Dayton, OH 45429 937-439-0610 • presidentialbanquetcenter.com

Kohler family

600

Five banquet rooms; personalized catering; linen, china, crystal, dance floor, setup and cleanup included.

Pretty Prairie Farm 4440 Prairie Road • Urbana, OH 43078 937-605-1693 • prettyprairiefarm.com

weddings@ prettyprairiefarm.com

350

1840s homestead located in the middle of the prairie fields; the barn is uniquely shaped with 12 sides and all the original woodwork historically restored; handicap accessible bathrooms; bar; many photo opportunities.

Roberts Centre 123 Gano Road • Wilmington, OH 45177 937-283-3272 • robertscentre.com

MaryRuth Grandinette

4,000

Indoor and outdoor options; dance floor; linens; buffet or seated dinner options; Max & Erma’s restaurant on-site; more than 80,000 square feet of unobstructed meeting space; audio/visual equipment available; on-site accommodations; onsite catering team; bridal suite available; Wi-Fi; handicap accessible.

Julio Gonzalez

250

New venue inspired by Southern mansions; elegant chandeliers; balconies; wood cathedral ceilings; two floors; four patios; babbling creek; table and chairs are included; grand staircase; three 20-light French chandeliers; 14-foot windows.

Silver Creek Stables Farm 3160 Waynesville Jamestown Road • Xenia, OH 45385 • 937-776-6791 • silvercreekstables.com

info@ silvercreekstables.com

250

Country farm secluded on 73 acres with a rustic barn, an array of horses, hay bales and fresh country flowers; can choose to be married on horseback, or enter wedding by horse and carriage; flowers grown in greenhouse.

Springfield Masonic Center 125 W. High St. • Springfield, OH 45502 937-323-5911 • springfieldmasonic.org

rentals@ springfieldmasonic.org

1,000

Steam Plant Dayton 617 E. Third St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-985-0617 • steamplantdayton.com

Event coordinator

500

VIP Suite includes salon chairs and mirrors for hair and makeup stylists; choose from one of the preferred caterers for all food and beverage service; indoor and outdoor options for ceremony and receptions.

stoneyhillfarmohio@ gmail.com

200

Situated on 26 acres and includes a farmhouse and barn overlooking a pond; farmhouse has 3 bedrooms and a master suite; barn has 5,000 square feet on the main level and a 3,500-square-foot lower-level walkout; 1,300-square-foot deck overlooks the pond and horse stable; 1,000-square-foot covered porch.

Tamara Cramer

300

Indoor and outdoor options; experienced staff to help with planning process; chef can customize menus, from hors d’oeuvres to plated dinners.

The Magnolia Barn and Rosewood Manor 700 Benner Road • Miamisburg, OH 45342 937-269-7163 • magnoliaestate.com

Stoney Hill Farm 7757 Upper Miamisburg Road (state Route 725) Miamisburg, OH 45342 • stoneyhill.farm Sugar Valley Golf Club 1250 Mead Road • Bellbrook, OH 45305 937-372-4653 • sugarvalleygc.com

Owned and operated by the city of Kettering; 19th century farmhouse and barn; 15 acres of land; heated upper barn.

Historic landmark built in 1924-1927.

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15

L O CA L V E N U E L I S T I N G S Venue Sycamore Creek Country Club 8300 Country Club Lane • Springboro, OH 45066 937-748-0791 x103 • sycamorecreekcc.org

Contact

Max Capacity

cwashington@ sycamorecreekcc.org

300

The Brightside Music and Event Center 905 E. Third St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-410-0450 • thebrightsidedayton.com Max Capacity: 430 Contact: Carli Dixon The Buckeye Barn 9017 Troy-Sidney Road • Piqua, OH 45356 937-405-1934 • thebuckeyebarn.com

Features Customizable menus; professional event planner; club membership not required.

Bohemian, industrial, eclectic, authentic and oh so Dayton—all words that perfectly describe The Brightside; all caterers welcome; ample free off-street parking; amazing acoustics.

info@thebuckeyebarn. com

300

Tables and chairs included; indoor-outdoor venue; early 1900s barn; water features; views of country fields; bridal suite; dude cave.

Events Coordinator

200

With three outdoor venues and four indoor venues Cox Arboretum provides breathtaking vistas of natural beauty, serenity and peace.

Darbie Kincaid

350

Overlooks Riverscape MetroPark; executive chef; event planning services; ample parking; full bar service; venues for rehearsal dinners and bridal showers.

sales@sunset.farm

300

Located on 162 acres; still-working farm features Shire horses, baby goats, tree covered paths and gardens; versatile floor plans; indoor and outdoor options; bridal suite; groom's area.

Carol Fejes

22

Bridal parlor; music, candles and silk bouquet available for use; wedding coordinator.

Molly McConnell

800

On-site catering; full-service bar available; plenty of parking; located just off Interstate 75.

The Ormont Estate 1612 S. Main St. • 150 Fox Drive • Piqua, OH 45356 937-778-1021 • orrmont.com

Janelle Baker

300

Two locations—cathedral tent and octagon barn; historic estate built between 1890 and 1900.

The Partington Spring House 4690 S. Tecumseh Road • Springfield, OH 45502 937-886-4500 • partingtonspringhouse.com

Gabrielle Dent

125

Specializing in al fresco weddings and events; lush 6 acres.

Cox Arboretum 6733 Springboro Pike • Dayton, OH 45449 937-278-2657 • metroparks.org/rentals-permits/ facilities/cox-arboretum-rentals/ The Engineers' Club of Dayton 110 E. Monument Ave. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-228-2148 x111 • engineersclub.org The Estate at Sunset Farms 3669 Centerville Road • Bellbrook, OH 45305 937-553-3669 • sunset.farm The Little Wedding Barn 228 S. Kenton St. • Urbana, OH 43078 937-653-3368 • thelittleweddingbarn.com The Mandalay Event & Banquet Center 2700 E. River Road • Dayton, OH 45459 937-294-6600 • themandalay.com

937-479-1719 937-479-1719 937-479-1719 The area’s largest selection The of area’s The area’s largest largest selection selection outdoor wedding options

of outdoor of outdoor wedding wedding options options

16

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Venue

Contact

Max Capacity

Features

Steve Bruce

375

Four-season enclosed veranda overlooking water; indoor ballrooms; lit outdoor gazebo; indoor and outdoor full service catering.

The Vernet Ecological Center at Glen Helen Nature Preserve 405 Corry St. • Yellow Springs, OH 45387 937-769-1902 • glenhelen.org

Ann Simonson

50-80

The Willow Tree 1900 W. state Route 571 • Tipp City, OH 45371 937-260-3273 • thewillowtreetippcity.com

Ben Bickert

200

Tables and chairs provided; bridal suite; alcohol permitted.

Mica Glaser Jones

175

40-foot barrel vaulted ceiling; twin balconies with artwork; vintage sconces on both sides of the hall; in-house coordinator; décor and bar packages.

Melissa Smith

200

83-acre rural campus; scenic waterfalls; open-air chapel, cobblestone amphitheater and pond are option for an outdoor ceremony; heated and air conditioned lodge for reception; bridal suite; on-site coordinator.

info@topofmarket.com

350

106-year-old converted freight depot; two rooms—The Loft and The Warehouse; exposed brick and wooden beams; provides service and bartending staff.

Kaitlyn Engelman

200

Event staff; view of golf course; terrace; wood-burning stone fireplace.

Wegerzyn Gardens Metropark 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave. • Dayton, OH 45414 937-275-7275 • metroparks.org/rentals-permits/ facilities/wegerzyn-gardens/

Wegerzyn Gardens office

100

Eight outdoor locations—Garden Green, Reception Lawn, Arbor Garden, Memory Garden, English Garden, Federal Garden, Victorian Garden and Woodland Garden.

Wright State University Nutter Center 3640 Colonel Glenn Highway • Dayton, OH 45435 937-775-4674 • nuttercenter.com

Misty Cox

1,000

The Springfield House Banquet Center 4230 E. National Road • Springfield, OH 45505 937-926-9010 • thespringfieldhouse.com

The Windamere Event Venue & Art Gallery 2 S. Main St. • Middletown, OH 45044 513-818-5174 • thewindamere.com Timeless Charm Weddings & Events 1259 Swann Beatty Road • Camden, OH 45311 513-818-2933 • timelesscharmweddings.com Top of the Market 32 Webster St. • Dayton, OH 45402 937-224-3663 x3 • topofmarket.com Walnut Grove Country Club 5050 Linden Ave. • Dayton, OH 45432 937-253-3109 x302 • walnutgrovecc.net

The Golf Club at Yankee Trace 10000 Yankee St. • Centerville, OH 45458 937-438-3585 • yankeetrace.org Max Capacity: 250 Contact: Jason Pajari

Patio; atrium art gallery; auditorium; unique round, rustic space.

Multiple rooms; luxury suites.

Yankee Trace features a stunning 32,000-square-foot clubhouse that transforms into a luxurious wedding chapel.

Meadowbrook’s freshly renovated event venue, great for parties between 40-350 guests and located on our beautiful 171 acre golf course, is the perfect location for your celebration.

Contact Meadowbrook Catering to set up a tour and book the facility today! We look forward to meeting all of your wedding needs!

Fulltime caterer available on site to assist with all of your wedding day needs and 50% off room rates available on Friday and Sundays.

6001 Salem Avenue • Clayton, Ohio 45315 (937) 540-9685 • meadowbrookatclayton.com

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17

CAT E R I N G

Good EATS

GREAT WEDDING CATERERS ABOUND IN THE MIAMI VALLEY

By Tim Walker

MEGHAN MARIE STUDIO

T

he wedding was perfect, your family and friends agree. The bride was resplendent in white, the groomsmen dapper and dignified. The service was flawless and the photographer nailed every shot. The whole amazing day has gone off without a hitch and as your guests arrive at the reception and find their seats you can be sure that there is one subject foremost in everyone’s mind: “Holy cow, I’m starving.

When the heck do we eat?”

When it comes to planning a wedding and reception there are a thousand and one details that need to be addressed and decided. Food, unfortunately, can almost become an afterthought. “Chicken, beef, or fish? How many sides should we offer?

What about vegan or vegetarian options?

And how much is all of this going to cost?”

All this and more needs to be taken into consideration and the right caterer will help to ensure that this part of the wedding runs smoothly, enabling the happy couple to focus on other important matters.

So relax. If you’re planning a wedding reception we’ve put together a list of some 18

DAY TO N W E D D I N G 2 0 2 0

great Dayton-area caterers who can help you plan and pull off the absolutely perfect dining experience. Make your arrangements with one of these great local food providers and you’re sure to leave your wedding guests full, satisfied and ready to party long into the night.

CENTERVILLE CATERING 9466 Dayton Lebanon Pike, Dayton, (937) 580-9048 Centerville Catering & Motschman Family Dining LLC is a full-service caterer located in Centerville providing a variety of foods for events of all sizes and types. With offerings like hand-rolled meatball appetizers and pulled pork entrees to shredded beef, Hawaiian chicken, and sliders and boxed lunches, Centerville Catering will go that extra mile to make your wedding reception—or any event—one that your guests won’t ever forget. Exquisite sweet treats and custom desserts round out the menu options, satisfying anyone’s sweet tooth, and completing a perfect dining experience.

SMOKIN BARRELS LLC Old Troy Pike, Huber Heights (937) 718-6779 Who doesn’t love a good barbecue? I mean, make it brisket, make it pulled pork or pulled chicken, make it sandwiches or ribs or good old barbecued chicken, you can’t do better than a down home plate of smoked meat and the right side dishes, all done up right by a master of the pit. And when it comes to catering your wedding reception, Damon Daniel at Smokin Barrels has the knowledge and experience to make your special day one that your guests will really enjoy. Southern-style barbecue might just be the way to go if you want to keep it real for all of your guests.

SCRATCH EVENTS 767 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Dayton (937) 567-7850 Since November 2010, Scratch Events has been doing things differently in Dayton.

Its Scratch Events division is described as a cutting edge catering firm with “sexy, no holds barred, designer menus” backed by a

Choosing the right caterer ensures that everyone enjoys a delicious reception.

contemporary engineering-style approach to execution and service. If you’re looking for a local caterer that is creative, knowledgeable about food and able to create a unique dining experience for your event then Scratch is the caterer for you.

“They provide an exquisite cuisine that is prepared using professional, top-notch chefs,” says Heather Stewart-Rigsbee, event planner and founder of MadCab Event Planning. “Not only can they prepare a delicious meal, but they are humorous and a true joy to have at any event. Their food just makes your taste buds dance with joy.

You will undoubtedly hope that every event you attend is catered by Scratch Events.”

MRS B’S CATERING 101 N. Main St. Pleasant Hill (937) 676-2883 Mary Beasecker, owner of Mrs. B’s Catering, has been in business for over 15 years.

Her long track record is a testimony to her company’s creativity, reliability and sensitivity to detail, and the people of Miami County are proud to have her.

With a selection of foods ranging from chicken breast with Champagne cream sauce, crab-stuffed chicken breast and vegetarian spinach lasagna roll-ups to roasted tenderloin of beef topped with frizzled onions on scalloped potatoes with green beans and red peppers Mrs B’s Catering will make sure your reception food is perfect in every way.

Mrs. B’s family owned business is managed by her daughter, Terri Woodcock. She brings a wealth of education and experience to the position—she has a bachelor of science degree in restaurant, hotel and institutional management from Purdue University—and her 20 years of experience have included management positions with Aramark and Marriott.

CURRENT CUISINE 237 Xenia Ave Yellow Springs (937) 767-9110 Current Cuisine has been catering from scratch for all occasions since 1983, making everything from hearty appetizers to incredible entrees and desserts for com-

pany lunches, formal sit-down dinners and receptions of all kinds. Its wedding cakes are made with quality ingredients and earn them rave reviews. A well-known destination spot in the village of Yellow Springs, Current Cuisine’s brick-and-mortar store also has a stellar reputation and can’t be topped when it comes to providing great food and great catering.

PLATINUM CATERERS (937) 668-9067 Platinum Caterers is owned and operated by celebrity chef Jay M. Jones. Jones operates his business as a once-in-a-lifetime, hand-crafted catering option for clients large and small and the chef likes to focus on building a one-on-one personal rapport with each person at every event. Platinum Caterers specializes in “weddings, corporate events, social occasions, graduation parties, party rentals and everything in between.” Since opening in September 2015, Jones has made a national name for both himself and his catering brand and he’s showing no signs of slowing down. n DAY TO N W E D D I N G 2 0 2 0

19

R E N TA L S

Something Borrowed

RENTALS ITEMS ADD BEAUTY AND SPARKLE TO A WEDDING

By Ginny McCabe

MEGHAN MARIE STUDIO

See all that Dayton has to offer in the Arts, Business and Culture.

Visit thedaytonmagazine.com for a FREE subscription to Dayton Magazine

2 0 DAY TO N

WEDDING 2020

W

ith so many intricate details to remember brides may often overlook rental items like tables, chairs, tents, linens, lighting and décor, but if a venue doesn’t include them in the rental fee you may need to add them to your to-do list. Often, rentals can enrich the beauty and sparkle of your wedding day.

ONE-STOP-SHOP RENTAL COMPANIES DO IT ALL A one-stop-shop for all your wedding needs, Kosins Tents & Events is a family-owned rental company. It can provide items like tents or a large numbers of tables and chairs.

“We offer any type of party rental item for any occasion. Tents, tables and chairs are our bread and butter, but we also offer décor. We do a lot of backdrops, ceiling draping and that makes us different from other places because we are a one-stop shop. We do set up for weddings as well and we offer that as part of our event planning services,” says Lysa Kosins, event designer, Kosins Tents & Events. “We can come up with an entire design plan and execute it for them on their wedding day.”

Owned by brothers Bill, Mike and Bobby Kosins and based in Centerville, Kosins recommends that brides call (937) 312-1613

so they can talk through the process of getting a tent and be introduced to Kosins’ showroom. The showroom highlights items such as tables, chairs and linens.

There are also design tables set up where you can come in and work with various colors and décor items and put together your table design. Sometimes, Kosins is supplemental to a venue. Other times, they are the venue, where the tent becomes the venue.

“In that case, you are going to want to budget up to $10,000 for your event because we are the venue and we’re providing the tent,” says Kosins. “But, when someone is hosting a wedding at a venue that has tables and chairs (provided) then you are looking at a budget range from about $2,000 to $4,000.”

Kosins says many brides want an outdoor, open-air feel for their wedding and are opting for tents without tent tops.

Other popular venues include backyard weddings and rustic natural venues like Canopy Creek Farm or The Magnolia Barn.

Industrial venues are also trending, such as Top of the Market’s “The Warehouse” and “The Loft” rooms, or at The Steam Plant.

With the industrial vibe, there’s exposed

ABOVE: This couple rented barrels and a barn door as well as cupcake risers and a cake stand to create this beautiful rustic cake table.

FAR LEFT: Renting chairs is an important consideration when planning the wedding ceremony.

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21

ductwork, metal and brick. Barns, or a mix of both, like the feel of an industrial farmhouse are also among the favorite venue choices. Many brides are moving away from traditional banquet centers.

ADD SOME SPARKLE According to Robyn Ungard, owner of Impress! Party Rentals, large marquee lighting has become extremely popular.

She said it’s one of the company’s biggest rental items.

“A lot of brides will create their own style to go with their wedding theme. Some brides will put white lights in the ‘MR & MRS’ and use blue, red or pink lights in the heart,” Ungard says.

The marquee floor lighting from Impress Party Rentals is available in “MR & MRS” and “LOVE.” Couples and brides can also choose their own bulb color.

Several other marquee lighting options, such as “BABY” and 30-inch numbers are also available.

“DIY centerpieces are also in demand.

Brides, or anybody that is having party, can create their own centerpieces. We have wooden discs, tower vases and a lot of brides use round mirrors. They rent those items from us and then all they do is add flowers when they get to the event site,” Ungard says.

Impress! Party Rentals, a small, boutique company, also offers additional rental items such as backdrops, lighted décor, barrels, bird cages, lanterns, cake and dessert tables, chalkboards, signs and 22

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easels, furniture and arches, ladders, garland and wreathes, serveware and much more. As far as new selections, “donuts” and “smores” displays have recently been introduced. Brides can also select predesigned packages, which are easy to use and stress-free.

ONLINE RENTAL IS A GROWING TREND Impress! Party Rentals was founded in March of 2015 and the majority of the company’s business is done online. The company doesn’t offer delivery or return pick-up. Instead, customers arrange to pick up the items prior to the event and bring them back afterward.

Ungard says, “We had a bride from Frankfort, Kentucky, who rented our ‘MR & MRS’ marquee lights. They brought a pick-up truck and they drove and drove.

Her dad didn’t know they were going to Dayton, Ohio. When they pulled in the driveway the dad said, ‘I didn’t realize this was going to be so far.’ So, we loaded them up, they had the event and brought them back. After the event, when dad pulled up, he jumped out and said, ‘They were worth every mile. I have two more daughters and we will be back.’”

A WEDDING PLANNER CAN HELP Jean Neuhart, owner of Weddings From The Heart, is one example of a Daytonbased wedding planner who can help you coordinate and plan all the details, from the vision and budget to working

LEFT: 36-inch MR & MRS lights stack to create a 6-foot backdrop.

ABOVE: Some of the items that can be rented to create table decor include wood disks, antique milk bottles and lanterns. The table is a customized “Love is Sweet” table available to rent from Impress! Party Rentals. with venues and rental companies and everything in between.

She goes with couples to rental companies to pick out flatware, china, linen styles, linen overlays, runners, chair covers, furniture styles and whatever is needed to have the look a couple wants to achieve for their dream wedding.

“The nice thing about rentals is you can basically bring in everything from tents to port-a-potties. You don’t have to have a banquet room per se. If you have a piece of land and permission we can bring it all in—generators, lighting and such. A lot of times what couples are looking for are things that will enhance the look they are wanting,” Neuhart says.

She says rather than a basic white or ivory linen, maybe they want something with more color. Purples and blues are perennial favorites. Right now, she says she is working with a couple and their colors are ivory with accents of burgundy and gold. Also, uplighting, or specialty linens with different fabrics, laces and sequins can dramatically change the look of the wedding. No matter what the venue, couples have a lot of flexibility today to do what they want. n

FLOWERS

From Traditional to Unique BRIDES ARE OPTING FOR MORE GREENERY AND FEWER FLOWERS THESE DAYS

By Beth Langefels

T

oday’s brides are incorporating their own unique personalities into their ceremonies and receptions more than ever before.

Traditional churches and rental halls are increasingly being left behind in favor of destinations like beaches, forests, farm fields and even old barns. And venues aren’t the only things that have changed. Wedding flowers and décor are moving away from what has long been more traditional to unique expressions of bride and groom’s personalities.

“We have a lot of different types of flowers that are popular with brides,” says Brenna Kesson, design floor manager at Oberer’s Flowers in Dayton. “Everybody loves peonies and wildflowers are also really big right now.”

Kesson says the color themes are trending to pastels and rarely does she see solid white by itself.

“We are seeing an orange-blush and a lot of dusty blue and mauve coming in for fall,” Kesson says.

Roses of all colors have always been symbolic of romance and love. Caroline Lisle, director of communications at the Flowerman, says roses are “tried and true”

and classic for weddings.

“Roses go with all different themes,” Lisle says. “From free form to organic to classic—they fit in well.”

Rustic styles have become very popular over the past few years, not only in home decorating but also in weddings. Weddings are trending toward more casual styles, both in wedding attire and venue décor.

“Eucalyptus is very popular,” Lisle says.

“The silvery sage color mixes with a lot of different colors.”

In fact, greenery of all kind is taking over everything from bouquets to garlands to table decorations. And Lisle says cost-conscious brides are opting for more greenery and fewer flowers as well as a looser, more casual style.

“Brides are wanting to do a more relaxed feel and minimal style,” Lisle says. “They like simple table decorations with little touches of greenery and mixing them with flowers like zinnias and ranunculus.”

Incorporating varieties of pampas grass is popular as well and, says Kesson, it’s “everywhere” on popular wedding websites and Pinterest. Brides like the loose, natural wispiness of grasses and other natural products.

LEFT: A bride’s bouquet designed by The Flowerman featuring eucalyptus and other natural elements. CENTER: Brides are using a lot of greenery throughout their venues, at both ceremonies and receptions. Natural table runners like this one by the Flowerman, which incorporates a few flowers with eucalyptus, are very popular. RIGHT: A bouquet incorporating popular greenery with ranunculus, one of the more popular flowers with brides today, created by Oberer’s Flowers.

“Shapes in bridal bouquets have also changed,” Kesson says. “They’re not very structured but more open and flowing— almost as if they are falling apart.”

Kesson also says that greenery is trending year-round with brides choosing eucalyptus and natural grasses for Christmas weddings rather than traditional evergreen.

“For the Christmas season I see more dusty miller and deep reds in flowers,” she says. “And roses—white and red. Evergreen is a bit too stiff to get the look brides want.”

Candles are popular in homes and churches, but brides are beginning to appreciate the ambience they add to ceremonies and receptions at a very low cost.

“Candles are a heavy presence,” Lisle says. “And brides like to use things they can repurpose, like vases they can use at home later on and incorporating natural items like pumpkins for the fall season.”

For more information about weddings flowers visit oberers.com and flowermanflowers.com. n DAY TO N W E D D I N G 2 0 2 0

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PHOTOGRAPHY

CAPTURING the Big Day M

ost couples spend quite a bit of time selecting the dress, the food and the venue. However, Miami Valley wedding photographers suggest spending a similar amount of thought and care when selecting the photographer.

KNOW YOUR PHOTO STYLE There are many different types of wedding photographers so couples should make sure that they know what they like and what kind of photos they’re looking for before meeting with a potential photographer.

“Do you tend to go for a light and airy (brighter) edit or a dark and moody (darker) edit, or do you prefer something in-between? There tends to be endless choices nowadays, (so) choosing an editing style you prefer can help to narrow your search,” says Chelsea Hall, owner and head photographer at Chelsea Hall Photography in Dayton.

Couples should also consider if they want photos that are more editorial or photojournalistic in the their appearance.

“Editorial tends to be a more perfected, posed look, while photojournalistic is candid and imperfect, but tells the story,” adds Hall, who leans toward photojournalistic images herself.

Max Surikov, owner of Maxim Photo Studio, which has locations in both Cincinnati and Dayton, says he has seen the number of couples asking for photojournalistic images increase over the last five years.

“Also more and more couples are looking to create wedding day images that are ‘non-Pinteresty’ and are exclusive to them.

I coined this photography style as artistic photojournalism. It is a combination of photojournalism and the use of available and off camera lighting to create wedding images that have not been possible as recently as three years ago,” he says.

When determining if a photographer’s 24

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style fits your own Hall suggests looking at a full wedding galler y before making a decision.

“Anyone can take a handful of good images, but a professional can handle all types of lighting situations on a wedding day,” she says.

PROFESSIONALISM IS KEY

FINDING THE RIGHT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IS KEY FOR GETTING THE PHOTOS YOU DESIRE

By Corinne Minard photographer can deliver amazing images, however, if those images are coupled with slow service and unprofessional conduct the clients will be left wanting more and probably unsatisfied,” he says.

Chelsea Hall

Kevin Lush, owner and photographer with Kevin Lush Photog raphy i n Dayton, says that couples should make sure to find a professional photographer to guarantee best results.

A legitimate business will have a business license, pay sales tax and have backups of everything. In addition, couples should expect the photographer to act profes- Kevin Lush sional throughout all their interactions.

“Go with your gut! If you find a photographer you love and they are available on your wedding day but the photographer does not communicate quickly think about choosing another,” says Lush.

Surikov agrees, saying that the experience is key.

“I am not referring spe- Max Surikov cifically to the number of years that a photographer has been in business, instead I am referring to the level of satisfaction that the clients attain starting with the first time that they interact with the photographer, the promptness of the response, under promising and over delivering, friendliness, etc. Ultimately, the

GET TO KNOW YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER Last ly, couples shou ld make sure that they feel comfortable w it h t heir photographer.

“Finding a photographer you can vibe with is extra important. They are going to be with you all day. It would be a shame to choose someone who captures great images, but makes you feel uncomfortable,” says Hall.

The couple’s relationship with the photographer can help make or break their wedding day. Lush, for example, likes to go the extra mile the day of the wedding to keep everyone in a positive mood.

“At receptions I often get drinks for the bride and groom so that they can continue to enjoy their day without waiting at the bar. I try to make the day as easy and fun as I can,” he says.

Surikov suggests couples include an engagement session with their photography package so they can spend more time in front of the camera and with the photographer.

“The couple will gain valuable insights into various posing tips and tricks and we get familiar with each other’s personality. I

Kristin Mann and Aaron Stephenson Photo by Carrs & Co Photography House

find that the wedding day portraits are much easier when my couples include an engagement (session) because they know how they look best in front of the camera,” he says.

Ultimately, booking the wedding photographer requires finding whoever is best for you and your wedding. However, couples should remember to book them quickly.

“Once you find someone you love and they get back to you quickly book them!

There’s nothing more frustrating than finding the perfect photographer only to discover you waited too long to book,” says Lush.

And while budget is important Hall recommends reconsidering it if what you

really want is a little more expensive.

“Don’t be afraid to raise your budget to find someone you can trust. The biggest complaint I hear from married couple friends is that they wished they would have spent a little more on their photographer to get images they loved and cherished,” she says. n DAY TO N W E D D I N G 2 0 2 0

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Book Your Appointment at Louise Christine Bridal Boutique Today!

2508 Far Hills Avenue • In the Shops of Oakwood 937-751-7689 • louisechristine.com

Service Directory CATE R I N G CENTERVILLE CATERING 9466 Dayton Lebanon Pike, Dayton 937-580-9048 centervillecatering.com

CURRENT CUISINE 237 Xenia Ave., Yellow Springs 937-767-9110 currentcuisine.com

MRS B’S CATERING 101 N. Main St., Pleasant Hill 937-676-2883 mrsbscatering.com

PLATINUM CATERERS

WENDY’S BRIDAL

301 West Benson St., Cincinnati 513-761-7750 wendysbridalcincinnati.com More information page 32

F LOW E R S OBERER’S FLOWERS 1448 Troy St., Dayton 937-223-1253 oberers.com

THE FLOWERMAN 70A Westpark Road, Dayton 937-433-8610 flowermanflowers.com

937-668-9067 platinumcaterersllc.com

PH OTO G R A PH Y

SCRATCH EVENT CATERING

CARRS & CO PHOTOGRAPHY HOUSE

767 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Dayton 937-567-7850 scratchfood.com

SMOKIN BARRELS LLC Old Troy Pike, Huber Heights 937-718-6779 facebook.com/smokin.barrels.southernbbq/

434 E. Third St., Dayton 937-802-5422 thecarrsphotography.com

CHELSEA HALL PHOTOGRAPHY 204 S. Ludlow St., Suite 301, Dayton info@chelsea-hall.com chelsea-hall.com

C LE A N E R S

KEVIN LUSH PHOTOGRAPHY

REIBER CLEANERS

P.O. Box 661, Dayton 937-321-5752 kevinlushphotography.com

CROWNE PLAZA DAYTON 33 E. Fifth St., Dayton 937-224-0800 cpdayton.com More information page 14

DAYTON HISTORY CARILLON HISTORICAL PARK

1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409 937-293-2841 daytonhistory.org More information page 12

MEADOWBROOK AT CLAYTON

6001 Salem Ave., Clayton, OH 45315 937-540-9685 meadowbrookatclayton.com More information page 30

THE BRIGHTSIDE MUSIC & EVENT VENUE 905 E. Third St., Dayton 937-410-0450 thebrightsidedayton.com More information page 30

THE GOLF CLUB AT YANKEE TRACE

6 W Stroop Road, Kettering, OH 45429 (937) 293-1642 facebook.com/pages/ reiber-cleaners More information page 21

4140 Linden Ave., Suite 222, Dayton 937-475-7373, maximphotostudio.com

10000 Yankee St., Centerville 937-438-3585 yankeetrace.org More information page 29

DRESSES

VENUES

W E D D I N G PL A N N E R

LOUISE CHRISTINE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE & ATELIER

BENHAM’S GROVE

WEDDINGS FROM THE HEART

2508 Far Hills Ave., Dayton 937-751-7689 louisechristine.com More information page 31

MAXIM PHOTO STUDIO

166 N. Main St., Centerville 937-433-1913 More information page 29

P.O. Box 24664, Dayton, Ohio 45424 937-235-2586 weddingsfromtheheart.net

CANOPY CREEK FARM 600 Benner Road, Miamisburg, OH 45342 937-602-5867 canopycreekfarm.com More information page 28

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Venue Profile

Canopy Creek Farm

600 Benner Road, Miamisburg OH 45342 canopycreekfarm.com | 937-602-5867

C

anopy Creek Farm is the Original Southwest Ohio’s “Country Chic” wedding and event venue.

Our beautiful 24-acre farm is highlighted with a rustic elegant reception barn. Inside the new barn you will find gorgeous oversized chandeliers and beautiful openbeamed vaulted ceilings.

We have central air-conditioning and heating, so no matter the temperature outside, it is just how you prefer inside. The bridal dressing room gives our beautiful brides and her attendants a special place to prepare. Every wedding couple receives 15 FREE hours with a professional wedding coordinator, provided by Canopy Creek Farm.

Tables and chairs to seat 250 are provided and set to your request. Also included are a variety of tables for anything else you may need. The catering prep kitchen is there for your caterer of choice to serve your favorites, or you are welcome to do it yourself.

Full amenity restrooms are provided.

Just outside the stunning reception barn is the covered patio that runs the length of the building. Perched at the top of the hill, the view is unequaled. Gaze upon beautiful horses grazing in the field next to meadows of wild flowers. Overlook the pond surrounded by majestic trees and the babbling creek in the distance. There is ample lighted parking and handicapped guests can be dropped of at the front door with handicapped parking right next to the reception barn.

Canopy Creek Farm is conveniently located between Dayton and Cincinnati in historic Miamisburg, Ohio. Just minutes from I-75, I-675, Austin Landing, the Dayton Mall and downtown Miamisburg.

We are always here for you, striving to make your event special. To be sure, Canopy Creek Farm will make your wedding, corporate event, fundraiser, graduation party or family celebration an event to remember.

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Venue Profile

Benham’s Grove

166 North Main St., Centerville, OH 45459 937-433-1913 | benhamsgrove.com

The Golf Club at Yankee Trace 10000 Yankee Street, Centerville, OH 45458 (937) 438-4653 | yankeetrace.org

B

enham’s Grove is Centerville’s community gathering place on North Main Street (state Route 48) in the heart of Centerville, Ohio.

Benham’s Grove is an ideal setting for a variety of functions from small, intimate meetings to large formal gatherings. You can choose to rent the entire Benham’s Grove complex or the individual components that make up the facility—the Gerber House, Cottage, Barn and Gazebo.

This nonsmoking complex is handicap accessible and has ample parking onsite. A ready supply of tables and chairs are available and our staff will set them up for you. Wedding receptions, holiday

parties, bridal and baby showers, business meetings, graduation parties, art shows, fairs and festivals—whatever the occasion, it’s sure to be memorable when the backdrop is Benham’s Grove.

T

he Yankee Trace experience is more than 27 holes of championship golf: it begins with a stunning 32,000 square foot clubhouse that hosts seasonal dinner events and a delicious brunch every Sunday. The club arranges business meetings during the workweek and is transformed into a luxurious wedding chapel for families and friends to gather for a very special weekend.

Your big day should be the most special day of your life. At the Golf Club at Yankee Trace, we will take every step to ensure that you and your guests will be part of an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime event. We host weddings and receptions offering exquisite views, exceptional architecture and a professional staff. Our banquet center is located at the prestigious Golf Club at Yan-

PHOTOS BY: CHILDERS PHOTOGRAPHY

kee Trace, which has been voted the best course in the Dayton region for 8 years running. Our hall will cater groups of 5 to 250!

We offer a plethora of personalized services including menu options and the inclu-

sion of an ice sculpture. We are certain our professional and accommodating staff will take care of each and every detail. Rest assured that by having your event at Yankee Trace, you’ll be in good hands.

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Venue Profile

Meadowbrook at Clayton 6001 Salem Ave., Clayton OH 45315 937-540-9685 | meadowbrookatclayton.com

M

eadowbrook at Clayton is a beautiful wedding and reception venue that offers brides and grooms the perfect setting for their special day. Formerly a private country club, Meadowbrook at Clayton is now open to the public to enjoy the spacious ballroom overlooking the immaculate first fairway, as well as the special perks of a club, at reasonable prices.

The entire facility has been freshly renovated from floor to ceiling and handles intimate receptions of a couple dozen all the way up to grand celebrations of up to 300.

Meadowbrook at Clayton also offers the option of hosting the party outside at the Brookside Patio. There is ample parking with covered canopies making drop-off in inclement weather at our accessible entrances both convenient and safe for all ages. Finally, Meadowbrook at Clayton offers competitive prices not found anywhere else for the level of ambiance and service you’ll have when celebrating your wedding with us.

Venue Profile

Brightside Music & Event Venue 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH 45402 937-410-0450 | thebrightsidedayton.com

B

ohemian, industrial, eclectic, authentic and oh so Dayton! All words that perfectly describe The Brightside. This space, once an abandoned warehouse in the center of the city, was meticulously renovated over the last decade by Dayton artists Carli and Hamilton Dixon.

All caterers welcome, ample free off-street parking, amazing acoustics.

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Venue Profile

Louise Christine Bridal Boutique 2508 Far Hills Ave., Dayton, OH 45419 937-751-7689 | louisechristine.com

L

ouise Christine Bridal Boutique was created by mother/daughter pair Lisa and Abi. Our bridal boutique is located in the beautiful Shops of Oakwood in Dayton, Ohio. The area is the perfect destination for your shopping trip, with multiple shops and restaurants in walking distance and, of course, Starbucks!

At Louise Christine Bridal Boutique you will find friendly and knowledgeable consultants who love all things bridal. We are excited to help you create a look all your own with our gorgeous gowns and unique accessories! We carry stunning lines of bridal gowns and bridesmaids dresses, as well as an extensive line of accessories in the shop. We offer wedding dresses in a variety of sizes, silhouettes, colors and budgets. Our handpicked wedding dresses range in price from $900 to $3,000.

Some of our designers also offer custom design in addition to the styles you see in the shop. Louise Christine’s selection of bridal accessories is carefully curated to give our brides the best new styles that compliment our dresses perfectly.

While we welcome walk-ins, limited space and the desire for each bride to have her own unique experience make having an appointment the best way to ensure you get to try on dresses in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Please call us if you have any questions.

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Venue Profile

Wendy’s Bridal

6339 Sawmill Road, Dublin, OH 43017 | 301 West Benson St., Cincinnati, OH 45215 614-336-9100 | 513-761-7750 wendysbridal.com | wendysbridalcincinnati.com

W

ith locations in both Columbus and Cincinnati, Wendy’s Bridal gives Dayton brides the best of both worlds. From your first visit to one of our stores through your grand entrance down the aisle Wendy’s Bridal will be there for you. Here you can count on finding: • An extensive selection of the newest bridal gown styles from designers like Essense of Australia, Stella York, Allure Bridals, Morilee by Madeline Gardner, and more • A wide variety of styles and sizes, including plus-size • An abundant selection of bridesmaids and mothers dresses • Price ranges to fit any budget • A professional bridal stylist to give you one-on-one service • On-site alterations by expert fitters trained specifically for wedding attire When you arrive for your appointment, we will guide you through the process of making your wedding gown “you!” Call or email us today for your appointment.

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Planning a wedding can

9-16 months Create a budget.

be beyond stressful. From

Select your wedding party.

the caterer and the venue

Reserve your date and venue.

to the dress and the rings,

Start the guest list.

tracking everything that goes into the reception and wedding easily becomes overwhelming. To help you through this process, we’ve put together a checklist and timeline specifically addressing your wedding needs. Staying organized and on schedule will help both you and your guests enjoy your big day.

Book your officiant.

8 months Hire photographer and videographer.

Book DJ or band.

Select caterer.

Register for wedding gifts.

Create a wedding website, if desired.

Pick a dress.

6-7 months

Schedule hair and makeup appointments.

Book honeymoon.

Book any rentals.

3 months Purchase rings.

2 months Send out invitations.

Have a bachelor/ bachelorette party.

1 month Get marriage license.

Write vows.

Week of

Send out save-the-date cards.

Pick up dress.

Book a florist.

Send final guest list to vendors.

4-5 months Book rehearsal and rehearsal dinner venues.

Order the cake.

Day of

Get married!

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Come find the dress of your dreams. Call today to book your appointment:

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