T H E
B E S T
Wow!
Gorgeous Dresses
O F
C O L O R A D O
Weddings & Parties
L I V I N G
Who
You Gonna Call?
O COLORAD expression presents
CONFETTI APRIL/MAY 2019 FOUR DOLLARS
A N O T H E R
S U C C E S S F U L
P A R T N E R S H I P
Jay Davidson (middle), CEO, First American State Bank, with Bob and Judi Newman, Philanthropists, at the Newman Center on the DU Campus.
“First American State Bank approaches their customers the same way we approach our causes, with dedication and devotion.” - Bob and Judi Newman
www.fasbank.com • 303.694.6464 For scheduling, venues and ticket information, please visit: www.du.edu/newmancenter.
PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR
BRIDAL AND DIAMOND EVENT APRIL 1– 30
CH E RRY C R E E K N O RT H | LAR IMER SQUARE
| PARK MEADOWS
BRIDAL COLLECTION
FLATIRONS | FORT COLLINS | BOULDER | CHERRY CREEK MALL JohnAtencio.com
CONTENTS APRIL/MAY
Inside
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52
74
Out & About 8
Departments 20
56
Shot in the Dark
Set The Stage
Places & Spaces
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Add interest to your gathering with inventive color schemes, florals and greenery, decor and entertainment.
For the perfect venue for your special occasion, Colorado abounds with spectacular settings.
Check out photos from these recent nonprofit fundraisers and those who attended.
Confetti Awards Finalists See what submissions our panel of professional judges chose as this year’s finalists.
38 Bits & Pieces By Joy Lawrance
Find out about The Taste of Vail, wedding portraitist Jennie Lou at The ART hotel, Roundup River Ranch’s “A Taste of Camp,” local debutantes and much more.
42 Social Calendar By Elizabeth Jones
These upcoming events are a great way to support our local nonprofits and charities.
By Colleen Smith
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74
Quite The Spread
I Do Fashion
Visually stunning food stations and artful food bars head the list of fresh trends for party fare.
Designers rethink the traditional bridal gown, transforming it into a fashion statement-maker.
By Lisa Perry
80
So Inviting
With This Ring
Invitation ideas that are the perfect reflection of your celebration.
From ethical sourcing to custom design, what couples are looking for in 2019.
By Katie Coakley
46 By Jamie McAfee
Art-inspired wedding cakes and sweet creations for special occasions.
By Lindsay Mitchell
COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM APRIL/MAY 2019
By Suzanne S. Brown
How Sweet It Is
Kid Stuff
4
By Georgia Benjou
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52
COVER: From “A Day in the Spotlight,” the Lippitt-Buehler wedding by Walli Richardson Events, decor and floral by DesignWorks. Bride’s dress, Gia by Galia Lahav, Little White Dress Bridal Shop. At The Four Seasons Hotel Denver. Photo by Studio JK.
By Joanne Davidson
What’s cool among kids these days? Don’t fret; we’re here to help get those creative juices flowing.
COLORADO EXPRESSION (ISSN # 1070-5066) is published bi-monthly by New West Publishing Inc., 3600 S. Beeler St., Ste. 100, Denver, Colorado 80237, Elizabeth Hamilton, owner, 303-6941289; fax: 303-694-6939; e-mail: info@coloradoexpression.com; website: coloradoexpression.com. Annual one-year subscription rate is $22.00, cover price is $4.00. Periodicals postage is paid at Denver, Colorado and additional entries. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Colorado Expression, c/o New West Publishing, 3600 S. Beeler St., Ste. 100, Denver, Colorado 80237. Copyright © 2019, New West Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Memor ies Make the Most of Us Kimpton Hotel Born, set in the vibrant Union Station neighborhood, is a space designed with warmth and flexibility for both large and small anniversaries, birthdays, bar/bat mitzvahs, and other special events. featuring
3 Ballrooms with exible options to accommodate 40-250 people Large windows with city views in all event spaces Two terraces overlooking Downtown Denver Cuisine by Christian Graves of Citizen Rail
303.323.0024 1 6 0 0 We wa t t a S t r e e t h o t e l b o r n d e nve r. c o m # H o t e l B o r n D e nve r
CONTENTS APRIL/MAY
Inside
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88
Features 64
Featured Events 82
94
Making It Easy To Give The Perfect Gift
Fun Fest
Mountain Meets Boho
From Amazon to Zola, gift registries are available to fit any celebration, interest or budget.
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When two talented thespians planned their wedding, they set out to create an entertaining day in the spotlight.
By Colleen Smith
For Your Memories By Lisa Perry
Ways to save and share life’s most precious moments and memorabilia, from photo books to time capsules.
70 Event Planning Simplified By Joanne Davidson
VenuHub.com offers centralized services that meet the needs of party givers.
102-103 Memories PHOTOS LEFT TO RIGHT ACROSS SPREAD:
ABImages Rachel Havel Photography Zorn Photography Joy Marie Studios Ben Swanson Jared Wilson Photography Jared Wilson Photography Two One Photography Jared Wilson Photography From the Hip Photo Jared Wilson Photography
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COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM APRIL/MAY 2019
The Wine Group’s tent at Denver Food & Wine took on a mountain-luxe look.
In The Spotlight
86 Absolutely Wondrous
98
Jamie and Michael said their vows against the backdrop of a flowing river on a private estate in Boulder.
96 Happily Ever After
Le Meridien Hotel was the location for the quarterly Wedding International Professionals Association gathering.
98
Golden autumn leaves on Mount Sopris provided the ceremony backdrop for this Roaring Fork Club wedding.
Rustic Elegance
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100
Aruba Adventure
Bollywood Ball
The Hyatt Regency on Palm Beach in Aruba was the perfect venue for this ceremony by the sea.
Both the bride and groom were involved in planning of the decor for their big day.
The Beaux Arts Ball is known for its exceptional decor and entertainment and the 2018 event was no exception.
90 Welcome To The Neighborhood
“A Breath of Fresh: Working, Thinking, Living” was the theme of The Neighborhood @ Fiddler’s Green.
92 Over The Moon
This baby shower was inspired by the parents’ “Over the Moon” love to welcome a new baby.
coloradoexpression
@coloradoexpression
@coloradoexpression
From the Publisher
COLORADO expression OWNER/PUBLISHER
Elizabeth Hamilton
The Party Starts Here The magic of celebration can make us forget our everyday cares and become immersed in the experience
MANAGING EDITOR
Elizabeth Jones CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Suzanne Brown OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Lisa Buscietta
F
or me, the most anticipated part of any celebration is the arrival—walking into
beauty, mystery and community of the occasion.Thinking back to my favorite
DESIGN/PRODUCTION
Connie Robertson Andrea Späth PHOTOGRAPHY
Pamela Cress Joanne Davidson Caitlin Roth DIGITAL/SOCIAL MEDIA
Misti Mills CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Georgia Benjou Katie Coakley
parties, I have memories to cherish of wonderful food, atmospheric decor and being totally immersed in the experience. Special parties can whisk us away from obligations and to-dos and bring a bit of enchantment to our day. The behind-the-scenes of that enchantment is creative vision, layers and layers of details and a lot of work. In the pursuit of the perfect party, we present the Confetti issue of Colorado Expression so that we might bring inspiration for your wedding, next special
Joanne Davidson Joy Lawrance
occasion or even a few touches for a dinner party. With everything from the
Jamie McAfee
trends in color, food presentation and fashion to wish lists, finding the easy way
Lindsay Mitchell Lisa Perry Colleen Smith
to select a perfect venue and showcasing the pros who bring the magic to parties, we hope it helps you master the art of celebration. I’m happily anticipating many more special parties throughout 2019. Let’s get it started!
CONTRIBUTORS
Frederick Churbuck Chantal Henderson
Cheers, Elizabeth Hamilton President and publisher, New West Publishing
Shane Hendryson Michael Moore INQUIRIES AND SUBMISSIONS
info@coloradoexpression.com FIND THE VERY BEST OF COLORADO ADVERTISING AND SALES
sales@coloradoexpression.com
Stay in the know so you can plan your next outing with our monthly newsletter. Sign up at coloradoexpression.com. And for the latest happenings around our state, follow us on Facebook (@ColoradoExpression), Instagram (@coloradoexpression) and Twitter (@ColoExpression) APRIL/MAY 2019 COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM 7
SHOT IN THE DARK
All for a Good Cause Colorado Ballet Gala— An Evening in Oz An Evening in Oz was held at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House to benefit the Colorado Ballet. Photography by Pamela Cress
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1 Michael Korenblat, Natalia Ballinger, Rachel and Yuval Moskovich, event chairs 2 Kevin and Stephanie Tung, Jimmy and Linda Yip 3 Sandy Levine, Frank Wiederman, Oz characters 4 Dr. Aylane and Gabriel Dibildox 5 Brandon Lloyd, Lee Vickers 6 Alyson and Chris Graves 7 Diego Chimundes, Blake Brown, Colleen Curran, incoming board chair 8 Mick Ostermeyer, Erin Nichols, Silvia and Adam Sexton 9 Duke Hartman, Liz Katkin, board co-chairs 10 Mandy Moore, Jen Stamper, Katie Frisch
More photos for these events: coloradoexpression.com 8
COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM APRIL/MAY 2019
SHOT IN THE DARK
Collectors’ Choice 38 Honoring John W. Hickenlooper, Collectors’ Choice 38 was held at the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center to benefit the Denver Art Museum. Photography by Caitlin Roth
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1 Douglas Kerbs, Florence Müller, Diane Huttner, Lana Lee 2 Maureen Kechriotis, Sarah Anschutz Hunt, event chair; Christina Caulkins, Marty Lord 3 Barbara Jewell, Nikki Royer 4 Julian Fentress, Charles Fentress 5 Ellen Bruss, Mark Falcone, event chairs 6 Lovedy Barbatelli, Dr. Jeff Wheeler 7 Michael Niyompong, Barry Hirschfeld Jr. 8 Ellen and Scott Sandberg 9 Norm Shearer, Mike Miller 10 Tracie Tate, Marcel Dorsey 11 Alexandra Hill, Wiley and Diane Reed
More photos for these events: coloradoexpression.com 10
COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM APRIL/MAY 2019
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Put Down Roots where everything feels like home
Kentwood.com
Downtown
Country Club
The Preserve at Greenwood Village
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www.4060EastLindenLane.com
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Ann Kerr, 303.818.8668
Jim Rhye, 720.436.9864
Greg Margheim & Kelly Sophinos, 303.726.9471
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Observatory Park
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1891 Curtis Street #1907 • $2,300,000
4250 East Linden Circle • $2,250,000
2445 South Madison Street • $2,075,000
Heather Ehret-Faircloth, 720.320.9333
Andrea Bell, 303.748.7299
Gina Lorenzen, 303.570.2042
Sloan’s Lake
Washington Park
The Preserve at Greenwood Village
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Lakehouse • $532,500-$1,925,000
366 South York Street • $1,895,000
5401 Preserve Parkway • $1,850,000
Matt McNeill, Dee Chirafisi, Kevin Garrett, 303.949.9889
Julie Winger, 303.946.2784
Bob Kelly, 303.916.9978
7th Avenue Historic District
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Lone Tree
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755 Lafayette Street • $1,695,000
155 Steele Street #414 • $1,258,000
9559 Brook Hill Lane • $800,000
Annzo Phelps & Phelps Blair, 303.570.3429
Dawn Raymond, 303.777.7177
Jim Traynor, 303.888.1711
All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) nor Kentwood Real Estate shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless.
SHOT IN THE DARK
Denver Debutante Ball The 63rd annual Denver Debutante Ball was held at The Brown Palace Hotel to benefit Denver Botanic Gardens. Photography by Pamela Cress
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1 Post-debutantes and escorts 2 Tom Coxhead, Barbara Knight 3 Dawn Wood, honorary chair; Julie Wham, ball chair; Suzanne Coxhead, ball co-chair 4 Richard Wham, Jenny Scholes, Michael Schultz 5 John Sawyer, Kate Sawyer, debutante; Cindy Sawyer 6 2018 Denver Debutantes 7 Kathy Coors, Brad Coors, co-emcee 8 Bob and Barbara Banos, Dr. Kate and Dr. Mike Sawyer 9 Eileen Morton, Richard Kent Bellmar, emcee 10 Lem Smith, Tom Sisk, Christopher Davis, Matt Stava, Doug Jones
More photos for these events: coloradoexpression.com 14
COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM APRIL/MAY 2019
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Confetti Awards Entertainment
SHOT IN THE DARK
Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale Red Carpet Reception Held at the National Western Complex, the Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale Red Carpet Reception benefited the National Western Scholarship Trust. Photography by Pamela Cress
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1 Ron and Cille Williams, Serena and Chase Robinson 2 Heather Miller, committee member; Renee Duncan 3 Becky Schaub, Brooke Borgen, Amanda Boswell, co-chair; Amy Corrigan 4 Leigh Ann Nicas, co-chair; Bill Nicas 5 Dr. Marvin Beeman, Rachel Love, Dallas Vermillion, Victoria Collins 6 Justin Cumming, Heather Levy, Don Thorn 7 Doug and Nancy Jones, Marilyn and Pete Coors 8 Janie Hutchison, Barb Eidsness, Jo Deziel, Blake Hutchison 9 Chase Boswell, Amanda Boswell, co-chair 10 Zach Love, Terry Gardner, featured artist; Julie Gardner, Chancy Love 11 Susanna Shannon, Margo Simpson, Megan Thomas, Molly Coors
More photos for these events: coloradoexpression.com 16
COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM APRIL/MAY 2019
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SHOT IN THE DARK
Citizen of the West The 41st Citizen of the West dinner, honoring Robert “Bob” Tointon, was held at the National Western Events Center to benefit the National Western Scholarship Trust. Photography by Pamela Cress
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1 Marlie Andrews, Paul Andrews, president/CEO National Western Stock Show and Complex 2 Tamra Ward, Joe Blake, Jennifer Jones Paton, committee members 3 Pam Randall, Laraine Saldivar, Caitlin Whitham, Marlie Andrews, arrangements committee members 4 Maureen Whitham, Barth Whitham, steering committee; Porter Bennett, Peter Dea 5 Robert Tointon, Citizen of the West honoree, 2019; Betty Tointon 6 Bill Mosher, Tony Frank, 2018 Citizen of the West
Local commitment. Lasting results. Through personalized service and unparalleled expertise, we provide a special kind of banking experience. We offer commercial and industry lending, SBA loans and commercial real estate lending – all with the steadfast focus necessary to help local business and the community thrive. Stop in and discover what makes the MidFirst experience truly special.
midfirst.com Boulder – 840 Pearl St. 303.376.3870
Cherry Creek – 101 Cook St. 303.376.3800
Downtown – 555 17th St. 303.376.5460
University Hills – 2805 S. Colorado Blvd. 303.376.3840
APRIL/MAY 2019 COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM
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celebrate!
The ICON Gala that we’ve all known and loved for 20 years returns in 2019 as the Confetti Event Awards Celebration By Lisa Buscietta
THIS BELOVED ANNUAL EVENT HAS BEEN redesigned with a new concept while continuing to celebrate Colorado’s best events and the talented professionals in the event planning industry. The celebration will be held on Thursday, April 25th at BMW of Denver Downtown. To plan this inaugural event,
Colorado Expression Publisher Elizabeth Hamilton gathered together an amazing team including John Tobey, Shan-
non McLaughlin, Brittany Dosdall, Kelli Kindel, Ashley Summers and Brynn Swanson. Vendor partners also include Catering by Design, Eclective Hive and Event Rents. This group has come together with their collective
expertise to plan an outrageous evening with cocktails, dinner featuring interactive food stations along with lounge seating. The cabaret feel of the evening will be topped off by the 11-piece Jordan Kahn Orchestra, which promises to both swoon and rock the house! The distinguished awards presentation announcing the
winners will feature awards in 12 event categories. A panel
of nationally acclaimed event professionals carefully judge and evaluate each entry and select finalists and winners in each category. Finalists are chosen based on creativity, originality, overall integration of elements and execution of an event or service. The Confetti Event Awards will continue to support
Colorado’s nonprofit organizations. Every patron who purchases a ticket can designate the charity of their choice to receive a portion of their ticket purchase. In addition to that designation, $25 of each ticket purchased
is placed into a drawing and one of the charities designated from ticket sales is chosen at random during the celebration to receive those funds. Join us on Thursday evening, April 25th for the inaugural Confetti Event Awards Celebration. Reserve your tickets now at 303-694-1289 or coloradoexpression.com. Individual tickets are $225. There will also be a limited number of VIP sections available with seating for 10. Please call Lisa at CE for more information.
CONFETTI EVENTAWARDS
FINALISTS BEST PHOTOGRAPHY
BEST FLORAL DESIGN
JARED WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY for Natalie and Tim
NEWBERRY BROTHERS for Spruced to Perfection
ZORN PHOTOGRAPHY for Tiffany and Eric at Denver
DESIGNWORKS for Hauck-Juma Wedding NEWBERRY BROTHERS for Rustic Elegance
Country Club JARED WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY for Krystal and Chris BEST INVITATION
GLOBAL DOWN SYNDROME FOUNDATION for
Be Beautiful Be Yourself Fashion Show TABLE 6 PRODUCTIONS for Mary and Austin’s Wedding BEST ENTERTAINMENT CONCEPT AND EXECUTION
IMPRINT EVENTS GROUP for Beaux Arts Bollywood Ball E5 EVENTS for The Neighborhood @ Fiddler’s
Green Launch GLOBAL DOWN SYNDROME FOUNDATION for
Be Beautiful Be Yourself Fashion Show BEST SOCIAL EVENT PRODUCED FOR A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION
DESIGNWORKS for Beaux Arts Bollywood Ball
TGE EVENTS for A Night in the Park benefiting
Mountain Area Land Trust CHILDREN’S DIABETES FOUNDATION for The Carousel
of Hope Ball GLOBAL DOWN SYNDROME FOUNDATION for
Be Beautiful Be Yourself Fashion Show BEST EVENT PRODUCED FOR A CORPORATION
E5 EVENTS for 1144 Fifteenth Tower Grand Opening TOTAL IMAGINATION EVENTS for The Wine Group
at Denver Food & Wine E5 EVENTS for The Neighborhood @ Fiddler’s Green Launch BEST FOOD PRESENTATION AT AN EVENT
FOOTERS CATERING for Thank You Celebration CATERING BY DESIGN for Simply
EPICUREAN CATERING for DiPasquale-Wolfert Wedding
BEST DECORATING DESIGN
DESIGNWORKS for Hauck-Juma Wedding DECOR BY DESIGN for Simply
DESIGNWORKS for Beaux Arts Bollywood Ball BEST WEDDING (under $1,000 per guest)
TOTAL IMAGINATION EVENTS for Jamie & Mike’s
Co-Ho (Colorado-Boho) Boulder Wedding WALLI RICHARDSON EVENTS for Misty Elegance
in Colorful Colorado TOTAL IMAGINATION EVENTS for Tamra & Dustin’s NYE
Old Hollywood Speakeasy Celebration TGE EVENTS for Stunning Larkspur Ranch Wedding BEST WEDDING (over $1,000 per guest)
AFFAIR WITH FLAIR for Nat and Tmo’s Wedding
TABLE 6 PRODUCTIONS for Mary and Austin’s Wedding EPICUREAN CATERING for DiPasquale-Wolfert Wedding BEST SOCIAL EVENT PRODUCED FOR AN INDIVIDUAL
AFFAIR WITH FLAIR for Halftime at the Bar Mitzvah Bowl TGE EVENTS for Union Station Rehearsal Dinner ASHLEY NICOLE EVENTS for Ladies Luncheon
Bridal Shower FOOTERS CATERING for Thank You Celebration BEST OVERALL EVENT (under $1,000 per guest)
BLANC DENVER | BLUE EYES CONSULTING for Taylor
& Frankie Rehearsal Dinner at blanc GLOBAL DOWN SYNDROME FOUNDATION for
Be Beautiful Be Yourself Fashion Show TOTAL IMAGINATION EVENTS for Jamie & Mike’s Co-Ho (Colorado–Boho) Boulder Wedding TOTAL IMAGINATION EVENTS for Tamra & Dustin’s NYE Old Hollywood Speakeasy Celebration APRIL/MAY 2019 COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM
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set the stage
Add interest with inventive color schemes, florals and greenery, decor and entertainment
OF THE MANY DETAILS THAT GO INTO PLANNING A PARTY, A COLOR SCHEME IS ONE TO DECIDE UPON EARLY ON. IT WILL BE CARRIED THROUGH THE EVENT, FROM INVITATIONS TO FLOWERS, DECOR AND THE MENU. By Colleen Smith
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COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM APRIL/MAY 2019
Photo: Caroline Colvin Photography
Photo: Emily Sacco Photography
Photo: David Lynn Photography
Photo: Rachel Havel Photography
w set the stage
Coral pairs with various hues— blues, greens, yellows, violets and neutrals. Fresh flowers always set the stage beautifully, and plenty of plants bloom in tints and shades of coral. Also trending in 2019, purple and silver are a sure hit with Colorado Rockies fans. Pristine all-white or a simple combination of black and white, elegant and timeless as tuxedos, never fully falls out of vogue. Another sophisticated color option is monochromatic palettes. Sticking with the same color— give or take a few degrees on the color wheel—simplifies decision-making and results in a chic look.
Photo: From the Hip Photo
When determining a color palette for the invitation and the event, consider Pantone’s 2019 color of the year: “Living Coral.” The hybrid of pink and orange, coral works almost as a neutral, though with a lot more punch.
Photo: Allée Photography
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1 The River Crest Cabins on the banks of the South Fork River offers luxury mountain accommodations away from the crowds. Event planner Elizabeth Restauri of Total Imagination Events and Bella Lu Floral created this lovely wedding setting. 2 Lush florals by Perfect Petal, an out-of-the-box design by Cloud 9 Weddings and DesignWorks transported guests at this magical woodland themed Spruce Mountain Ranch wedding. 3 To make sure everyone took away part of the day, Photo Love Bus provided props and plenty of opportunities for guests to create a memory of their own from Taylor and Frankie’s special day. 4 Statice Floral Design created this stunning bouquet, a whimsical and vibrant blend of sorbets and jewel tones with hues of blue, green, grey and gold for this Total Imagination Events Boulder Boho wedding. Amore Event Group created this speakeasy styled lounge area with antique books, Edison bulb lamps and family photos for this New Year’s Eve wedding at the Grant-Humphreys Mansion. 2 For this back-to-basics client appreciation event hosted by Catering by Design for By Design Collective, clean, beautiful natural and organic design elements were incorporated throughout with wood as a key theme. 3 This dessert table by Footers Catering glowed when it was lit by black light for the guests at this Moss Denver event planned by Brindle + Oak.
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COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM APRIL/MAY 2019
Photo: The Scobeys
TOP/BOTTOM: 1 Total Imagination Events and
Photo: Alp & Aisle
Photo: Carrie King Photography
Photo: Elevate Photography
Photo: Elevate Photography
set the stage
Photo: ABImages
For bridal bouquets, centerpieces, wreaths or party favors, succulents have grown in popularity. These architectural plants prized for their fleshy foliage can be arranged in any sort of container—from formal silver to rustic wood—to best suit an event.
ABOVE: This trademark carousel horse adorned
with florals by Treefrog Flowers beautifully represented The Children’s Diabetes Foundation at the 32nd annual Carousel of Hope Ball at The Beverly Hilton. OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM UPPER LEFT:
1 Alexan Events brought this bride’s style and inspiration together in this bouquet where the burgundy floral provided color to the palette that paired well with the rustic setting of the event. 2 The table at this Ashley Nicole Events outdoor birthday party featured a four-course fall-inspired meal by Catering by Design with each course pairing with a beer. 3 This bouquet of flowers by Project Floral for Aubree and Devin’s wedding included zinnias, roses, sea holly and eucalyptus. 4 SAS Institute Inc. turned to Imprint Group for its conference goal: create an experience. For the out-of-town guests, this ice bar with a drink luge by Fear No Ice was one of the many elements of the event to discover.
FLORAL & DÉCOR 5301 Leetsdale Dr. • Denver, CO 80246 303-322-0443 • www.newberrybrothers.com
Photo: From the Hip Photo
Photo: AllĂŠe Photography
Photo: Alp & Aisle
set the stage
Photo: Amanda Tipton Photography
your event perfectly planned
For decorations, balloons have not yet gone bust, but perfectly round orb balloons—some with confetti inside— have risen in popularity above balloon sculptures. Swans are an elegant and ethereal element of design soaring in popularity. Numeral- and letter-shaped confections set the stage by personalizing events with cakes and cookies that spell out monograms, corporate acronyms, or designate numbers for birthdays, wedding anniversaries or company milestones. “Festivalization” is a buzzword noting the popularity of live music. Set the stage with live music, whether a chamber quartet or a reggae band, matched to the event’s mood. Interactive party activities create spontaneity. Play zones feature everything from giant Jenga to tarot card readers. Other popular
corporate services • non-profit events wedding planning • special occasions
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IGNITE THE SENSES
ABOVE: Jordan from the Imprint Group provided
classic cellist sounds with a hip-hop flair as one of the entertainment offerings at “The Neighborhood @ Fiddlers Green Launch”event held at Palazzo Verdi by E5 Events. OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM UPPER LEFT:
1 The florals by Alexan Events for Carrie and Chris’ big day had the right touch of structure and flow with flowers like dusty miller, burgundy anemone and purple hanging amaranthus. 2 Epicurean Catering and David Alexander Designs set tables with florals by Newberry Brothers to create a warm, inviting space at this wedding celebration. 3 Inspired by nature, this food station by Catering by Design was a reflection of “Simply” theme for the client appreciation event at Skylight Denver.
A unique event planning agency,
E5 Events brings more than 40 collective years of hospitality experience that IGNITE THE SENSES
www.e5-events.com
info@e5-events.com
Membership has its privileges.
Co-working space
specifically designed
for wedding and event professionals.
set the stage
performers include magicians, stand-up comedians and caricaturists. Whatever the event, these ideas lend pizzazz and help create lasting memories. Colleen Smith, a longtime contributor to the magazine and many other publications, is an avid gardener who propagates succulents and is pleased to see the plants trending as elements of design. TOP/BOTTOM: 1
your client impressions and meet in our charming downtown Denver off ices.
OPPOSITE PAGE TOP/BOTTOM: 1
Newberry Brothers created a floral centerpiece with purple kale, yellow Oncidium orchids, Green Trick dianthus and assorted foliages atop a glass brick with carrots inside for a farm-to-table style rehearsal dinner. 2 As guests walked into this backyard birthday celebration hip-hop violinist Maestro Hughes entertained with his electric violin near a large custom bar that read “Cocktails Anyone.”
Amenities 5 luxury meeting spaces Central Denver location Refreshment amenities Wif i-AppleTV-Wireless Printer
Denver
821 Santa Fe Drive 970.274.4668 denver@studiowed.net
Photo: From the Hip Photo
meet plan get married
Photo: Jared Wilson Photography
Elevate
Floating crystals combined with white florals and orchids by DesignWorks cascaded down the silver legs of a romantic chuppah for this Affair with Flair wedding. 2 TGE Events incorporated the family’s love of travel into every aspect of the rehearsal where after cocktails in the main lobby, the guests were taken to the gallery located below Union Station for dinner.
Walli Richardson Special Events + Calligraphy 303.725.5740
Photo: Rachel Havel Photography
walli.richardson@aol.com
WALLI RICHARDSON Special Events Design & Calligraphy wallirichardsonevents.com 303.725.5740
Photo: Carrie King Photography
- ICON AWARDS WINNER - LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT
quitethe spread
Make it pretty, please! Visually stunning food stations, brushstroke wedding cakes and artful roaming food bars head the list of fresh trends for party fare.
REMEMBER WHEN ALL YOU REALLY NEEDED FOR A SPECIAL SOIREE WERE TASTY PASSED HORS D’OEUVRES, A DELICIOUS DINNER AND A BASIC BAR? THINGS ARE DIFFERENT IN 2019. By Lisa Perry
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Photo: Allée Photography
Photo: Allée Photography
Photo: Emily Sacco Photography
Photo: Jared Wilson Photography
Photo: From the Hip Photo
Photo: Elevate Photography
Photo: The Scobeys
quite the spread
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Moscow mule and other beverages were served by Peak Beverage at the Whimsical Woodland wedding at Spruce Mountain Ranch by Cloud 9 weddings. 2 An annual client appreciation event “Simply,” hosted by Catering by Design at Skylight Denver, was inspired by getting back to the basics. Clean, beautiful design, food and drinks as displayed in this flavorful appetizer. 3 Also served was a warm chive biscuit topped with pure honey, aged cheese, shaved prosciutto and house-made jam. The menu represented food in its natural, rawest, simplest form with accoutrements to enhance the natural flavors.
This year, delicious food and beverages are augmented by visually stunning preparation and innovative serving concepts. Make your celebration a memorable occasion with a few of these fresh and festive ideas.
an array of garnishes invite makeyour-own bites. Bloody Marys and mimosas are naturals for roaming-bar DIY beverages. Utilize other creative food carriers (how about a hand-carried tree stump holding lollipop bites?) for appetizers.
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Drama
This year you’ll see more one- and twotier celebratory cakes hand painted with beautiful colors utilizing a brushstroke effect. Gold is in, so look for liberal artistic gold accents—from gold leaf to costume jewelry—on traditional to-the-ceiling wedding creations.
Epicurean Catering created the perfect late night snack—sliders and fries—for event planner Affair with Flair for Natalie and Tim’s wedding reception at the Seawell Ballroom. 2 Rocky Mountain Trout was the perfect dish for a Colorado wedding at Spruce Mountain Ranch. Epicurean Catering pan seared the trout, skin-on, and served it chilled over an apple fennel slaw. 3 For this “Thank You Celebration” for the founders of Moss Denver, event planner Brindle + Oak had event beverage company Oak + Olive create innovative drinks to go with the unique tribal-meets-glam setting. 4 Footers Catering pulled out all of the stops for Aubree and Devin's big day especially when it came to appetizers. This maple-braised Snake River Farms pork belly and green apple atop a cinnamon sugar doughnut hole was absolutely delicious!
Guests gravitate to food accented by oversized, vibrant floral arrangements, paintings and even an artistic design of balloons in a sophisticated color palette. Partygoers can also grab small plates from a decorated bookcase or eye-catching wall of food.
Roaming stations Servers wield boxy wooden trays and colorful rolling carts as individualized mobile stations. Carried appetizers such as mini tacos or raw seafood and
Artful wedding cakes
Long dinner tables Bypass round tables for 10 at sitdown dinners. Long banquet tables encourage a familial setting, especially placed in a square formation for smaller events.
quite the spread Food trucks and mobile cocktail bars
Fork-free mini-portions Ditch reception plates and forks completely. Guests want grab-andgo, two-bite savory treats and desserts served in a shot glass, on a stick or in a cone.
Photo: Dave + Kylee Miller Photography
When your event is located off the beaten path, guests will always line up for fun, filling eats from a colorful ride. This year, look for beer and cocktail vehicles to make a splash as well.
Creative vegetarian options Pathetic pasta and sad salad? Stop. Serve chunky vegetable pot pie, roasted cauliflower enchiladas or tempura veggies.
Locally sourced fare
Lisa Perry is celebrating 25 years of writing about Denver attractions and events for regional print publications and websites. She’s also been covering nonprofit fundraisers as a photojournalist for the past 10 years, and can’t wait to see to new ideas incorporated into fun-filled Denver events.
Photo: From the Hip Photo
Demand for homegrown options continues to rise. Colorado lamb, beef and trout and sustainable seasonal veggies pair nicely with local brews to celebrate our splendid state.
For a fun, casual vibe, having Steuben’s food truck was just the right fit for Jenny and Dave’s wedding reception at the Factotum Brewhouse in the Sunnyside neighborhood. 2 TGE Events planned a rehearsal dinner like none other at Union Station for the couple to be. Cocktail hour with passed hors d'oeuvres was held in the main lobby, for dinner guests were directed to the gallery located below Union Station. 3 Prepared by Lions Square Lodge, this salad included roasted pear, toasted pumpkin seeds, artichoke hearts, blue cheese crumbles and vinaigrette dressing for Allison and Barrett’s wedding and celebration in Vail.
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Photo: Francis Photography
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so inviting
From dramatic florals to inspired illustrations, these invitation ideas are the perfect reflection of your special occasion
THE FIRST MOMENT OF A CELEBRATION STARTS WITH THE INVITATION. THIS PIECE OF COMMUNICATION, WHETHER IT’S PHYSICAL OR ELECTRONIC, SETS THE TONE OF THE PARTY AND GIVES A GLIMPSE INTO THE EVENT.
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Photo: Caroline Colvin Photography
By Katie Coakley
Focus on florals
Dramatic floral prints are coming back into fashion in the invitation space. Substantial blossoms or bouquet sprays on a dark background are taking the place of traditional pastel palettes, in both wedding and baby shower invitations. Incorporating foil elements (especially gold) adds texture, a bit of luxury and visual interest, creating an unforgettable design.
Photo: Rachel Havel Photography
w Whether you’re planning a wedding, baby shower, or special life event, here are some ideas to consider when creating your invitation.
brings a fresh, vibrant element to your invitation. Animals are popping up as well, bringing a bit of the jungle and the sea (though with an illustrated rather than realistic take) to kids’ party invitations.
Perfect personalization Go green A design is built in layers and invitations often take inspiration from other realms, like interior design. Living Coral, Pantone’s color of the year, will figure heavily into this year’s palette. Incorporating greenery into the design, whether it’s an energetic, curling border or a hand-painted rendering of a favorite plant (like a bromeliad), OPPOSITE PAGE: TOP/BOTTOM: 1
For “Sharon’s Scuba Seaventure,”guests received a 3D laser cut invitation in a custom silk box created by Signed & Sealed by Steph. 2 These invitations by Emily A Howell Calligraphy + Design are simple in their design with minimal text to keep the focus on the calligraphy and the delicate watercolor florals. The bottom edge of the invitation and RSVP cards were hand torn to give a handmade feeling to the suite. The leather accents and the vintage postage stamps on the envelope add elements to make the suite unique.
Just as each celebration is unique, so are the invitations. Wedding parties are choosing personalized elements like custom monograms, illustrated maps for wedding venues, fun caricatures and other one-of-a-kind additions to showcase their personalities. “It’s not a general, fill-in-the-blank kind of thing,” said an industry expert. “And creating your own wedding hashtag is still almost a pre-requisite for the reception.” Whether it’s an anniversary party, a baby shower, birthday or any other event, be sure that the invitations reflect what’s most important to you. It’s an opportunity to showcase your creative side as well as provide a preview for your guests.
ABOVE: The Daily Press created custom die cut
BELOW: Carrie and Chris wanted to incorporate Colorado in the small details of their mountain wedding, like this wonderful invitation. What better way than to put the mountains in the invitation!”
Katie Coakley is a freelance writer based in Denver covering travel, beer and outdoor adventure. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications including Whisky Advocate and Outside.
Photo: Alp & Aisle
letterpress double thick invitations with gold foil accents and custom metallic gold crinkle backing. They were accompanied by die cut geodeshaped insert cards backed with black satin.
BITS & PIECES
What’s Happening in the West By Joy Lawrance
The Taste of Vail Beckons Food and Wine Lovers
Events include the Mountain Top Tasting, The American Lamb Cook off and The Reserve Grand Tasting & Auction
CENTRAL CITY OPERA
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A Classic Returns and a Colorado Premiere The Central City Opera’s 2019 Festival opens July 6 with main stage productions Billy Budd by Benjamin Britten and Madama Butterfly by Puccini. Both are brought to life in the historic 550-seat opera house built in 1878. In describing the Billy Budd production, General/Artistic Director Pelham Peace says, “I swear the roof is going to come off!” adding that it’s the biggest show ever done inside the theater and features rambunctious seafaring charm and the impact of class, privilege and power. The achingly beautiful Madama Butterfly is one of the best-loved operas in the repertoire, and to see this in the intimate venue of the opera house is a treat not to be missed. Operas are performed in rotation through Aug. 4. centralcityopera.org
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Photos: Zach Mahone
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FROM APRIL 3-6 FOOD AND wine connoisseurs—or just plain “foodies”—can experience one of the nation’s premier festivals held in Vail. With a wide variety of locations throughout the mountain resort town, the event showcases more than 30 of Vail’s finest chefs and restaurateurs along with the owners and winemakers from nearly 50 of the country’s top wineries. The event is a platform for promoting the Vail lifestyle and is just one of many activities throughout the year designed to support the community and its ever-evolving food and beverage choices. Some special events include Master of Wine; Ashley Hausman moderating “It’s all Greek to Me;” an American Lamb Cook-off; Debut of Rosé 2019 and a mountain-top tasting. tasteofvail.com
BITS & PIECES
THE BROADMOOR
announces new Manager of Public Relations and Communications
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KRISTA HEINICKE HAS BEEN PROmoted to manager of public relations and communications at The Broadmoor. She first came to Colorado Springs to train for ice dancing at the Broadmoor World Arena in 1984. She joined the Broadmoor in 2009 in the concierge department, then sales, and most recently as food and beverage public relations and office manager. “Krista’s history with the hotel and Colorado Springs combines the best of both worlds,” said Barry Brown, vice president of sales and marketing. “We are delighted to have her bring her knowledge of our food and beverage program and hotel together for our marketing team.” The Broadmoor and its Wilderness Experience properties The Ranch at Emerald Valley, Cloud
Krista Heinicke
Camp and Fly Fishing Camp encompass 5,000 acres. broadmoor.com
The 2019 Denver Debutantes Announced
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AT THE 64TH DENVER DEBUTANTE Announcement Tea on Feb. 27, 22 young ladies were named who will be making their debut to society at the Denver Debutante Ball to be held at The Brown Palace Hotel on Saturday, Dec. 21. The Denver Debutantes for 2019 are: Kathleen Cecily Coors, Julia Amelie Danos, Therese Choquette DeLine, Lucille Marian Egan, Abigail Lindsay Ford; Caroline Dennison Gillespie, Isabel Daniela Gorsuch, Eliza Nolan Howard; Madeleine Taylor Hunt, Lillian Elizabeth Loftus, Helen Rose Maley, Alexandra Perry Mayer, Hannah Marie McClain, Marie Eileen McHugh, Sophie Nina Pruter, Aubyn Roning Roemer, Ann Swanson Rudnick, Olivia Ann Schabacker, Carolina Rose Skinner, Alexandra Nicole Van De Water, Mathilde Grace Von Thun and Payton Currigan Waters.
APRIL/MAY 2019 COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM
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COCKTAILS, HORS D’OEUVRES, &
DOGS
BITS & PIECES
What’s Happening in the West
ENJOY A NIGHT OUT & FEED HUNGRY PETS
Commissioned wedding portraits by artist Jennie Lou
The ART, a hotel, Debuts Wedding Portraitist in Residence
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www.BoulderAreaRealty.com
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Preserving wedding memories in photographs and film is fine, but The ART, a luxury hotel located in the arts district of downtown Denver, has added a new dimension to the mix. The hotel is offering a resident wedding portraitist, Jennie Lou, who will create for a bride and groom a personalized work of art as a memento of the special day. Imagine someone able to capture the feelings, the music, the spirit of their wedding day using colors and brush strokes to evoke all that warm energy. This is a lasting expression of an important day in a beautiful piece of art created just for the happy couple. thearthotel.com
“A Reception in Crested Butte, Colorado.”
“A Ceremony in Alabama”
Photo: Bettinger Photography
F R E E CONCERT The Fine Arts Foundation Debutante Presentation and Ball
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WITH THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS AS A BACKDROP, ON JUNE 22 THE Margery Reed Courtyard at Denver University will be the location of the presentation of the Fine Arts Foundation Debutantes of 2019. Following the Grand March, the young ladies—17 girls from 11 different high schools— will be presented to those gathered and a tiara placed upon each girl’s head. A dinner catered by the History Colorado Center follows, after which all attendees will dance the evening away to the music of Jerry Barnett’s Moments Notice. The mission of the Fine Arts Foundation is to enrich life in Colorado by supporting the arts, and since 1986 it has awarded millions of dollars in grants to organizations in various disciplines of performing and visual arts as well as education and community outreach. thefineartsfoundation.org/debutante-ball
Roundup River Ranch Offers “A Taste of Camp” KIDS JUST WANT TO BE KIDS, even if they are sick. The Roundup River Ranch offers them a place to have great fun on a climbing wall, a zip line, riding horses or paddling canoes. On April 26, the Roundup River Ranch will host “A Taste of Camp” at the Seawell Ballroom for an evening that includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, camp activities, dinner and wine, camper entertainment and a live auction. Funds raised ensure that children with serious illnesses can experience the joys of childhood at camp—completely
free of charge. More than 1,000 campers join in the fun each year, with the ranch welcoming children from across Colorado and an 11state region. atasteofcamp.com
May 25th 16th St Mall DTWN 1 : 4 5 p m - 9 : 3 0 p m DNVR ELI YOUNG BAND
BA RNS COURTNEY
+25 Bands +5 Stages 100,000 + People TEXT AMP TO 720.330.4037 TO GIVE ! www.ampthecause.org
APRIL/MAY 2019 COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM
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SOCIAL CALENDAR
Colorado’s Social Scene By Elizabeth Jones
April 3
Missy Franklin headlines the 2019 class for the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Induction Banquet at the Hilton Denver City Center. 720-258-3888 • coloradosports.org 3
The Jewish Family Service Executive Luncheon featuring keynote speaker Peyton Manning will be held at the Seawell Ballroom. jewishfamilyservice.org 4
The annual Icebreaker—Breaking the Silence Gala raises funds for The Eating Disorder Foundation at Grand Hyatt Denver. eatingdisorderfoundation.org 7
The Petri Dash at Homestead Elementary School is a 5K fun run/walk raising funds for pediatric cancer research through The Morgan Adams Foundation. 303-758-2130 • morganadamsfoundation.org 10
The Spring Brass Ring Luncheon & Fashion Show held at the Hilton Denver City Center benefits the Children’s Diabetes Foundation. childrensdiabetesfoundation.org 6
Be Bright, Be Bold at the Hyatt Regency Denver celebrates the “Youth of the Year” and raises funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver. 303-892-9200 • bgcmd.org 6
The 26th Colorado Symphony Ball— Speak Easy Rock Hard—at the Fillmore Auditorium features performances by the Colorado Symphony and The Originators. coloradosymphony.org 6
Dust off your ’90s wardrobe, break out your mixtapes and get ready for Denver Scholarship Foundation’s Bash to the Future at the Studios at Overland Crossing. denverscholarship.org
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The Achieve Gala, held at the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center, celebrates DPS student’s triumphs and benefits the Denver Public Schools Foundation. 720-423-3553 • dpsfoundation.org 11
Firefly Autism’s Laugh Yourself Blue Gala is an evening of comedy, entertainment and celebration at the Seawell Ballroom. 303-759-1192 • fireflyautism.org 11
The annual Little Hearts Luncheon & Fashion Show at the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum benefits the Children’s Hospital of Colorado’s Heart Institute. childrenscoloradofoundation.org 12
Held at the Four Seasons Hotel Denver, A Night in Monte Carlo will include gaming, dinner, dancing and more at the annual Opera Colorado Gala. 303-778-1500 • operacolorado.org
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Uncorked Reserve and Uncorked AFTERGLO is the Denver Art Museum’s annual dinner and party celebrating art, wine and creativity at the DAM. 720-865-5000 • denverartmuseum.org 13
An Affair for Air Gala held at The Hanger at Stanley Marketplace raises funds for the American Lung Association in Colorado. lung.org 13
The Colors of the Mind annual gala held at the Seawell Ballroom benefits the Epilepsy Foundation of Colorado. 303-377-9774 • epilepsycolorado.org 13
The 20th Anniversary JDRF Dream Gala at the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center supports the JDRF’s Rocky Mountain Chapter funding for type 1 diabetes. 303-209-7718 • jdrf.org 18
Nate’s Night at Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox celebrates Nathan’s funloving spirit and his love of music. Funds raised support the Nathan Yip Foundation. 303-817-8400 • nathanyipfoundation.org 26
Central City Opera’s Theatre of Dreams Gala at The Hangar at Stanley Marketplace will feature special guest Broadway and TV star Megan Hilty. 303-292-6500 • centralcityopera.org 27
The PUSH Gala, the largest fundraiser for Craig Hospital, held at the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center supports Craig’s programs and research. 303-789-8000 • craighospital.org
Experience the Unforgettable
MADAMA BUTTERFLY COLORADO PREMIERE
BILLY BUDD THE BLESSED DAMOZEL LITANIES TO THE BLACK VIRGIN ENCORE: A MUSICAL REVUE
centralcityopera.org | 303.292.6700
PAINTING BY GREGG CHADWICK
Tickets on Sale Now!
SOCIAL CALENDAR
May 2
Dining Out For Life. Visit a participating restaurant or brewery and 25 percent of your bill will be donated to Project Angel Heart. 303-830-0202 • projectangelheart.org 2
Get out your hats and fascinators for the Women with Hattitude Luncheon at the Seawell Ballroom to benefit the DCPA’s Women’s Voices Fund. 303-446-4812 • denvercenter.org 3
4th Annual Bow Wow Film Festival at the Highlands Church/Holiday Theatre will benefit the Colorado Pet Pantry. 303-818-0618 • coloradopetpantry.org 3
The Dominican Derby Gala at the PPA Event Center is one of Denver’s premier pre-Derby parties. Don your best Derby wear and support the Dominican Home Health Agency. 303-322-1413 • dominicanhha.org 4
Dash or dawdle on this two-mile walk and fun run at the 26th annual Furry Scurry at Washington Park to benefit Dumb Friends League. 303-751-5772 • ddfl.org 4
Jockeys, Juleps & Jazz at the Four Seasons Hotel is a fun Kentucky Derby event benefitting Cancer Support Community and MyLifeLine.org. cancersupportcommunity.org 4
The third LivLyme Gala is a fun night with great food, cocktails and music in support of the LivLyme Foundation. Location TBA. livlymefoundation.org
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The Walk MS: Denver and 5K Run brings together community to end MS through the National MS Society. Routes TBA. nationalmssociety.org 9
Join Girls Inc. of Metro Denver at the annual My Bold Future luncheon at the Seawell Ballroom and inspire all girls to be strong, smart and bold. 303-893-4363 • girlsincdenver.org 9
The annual Shalom Park Event at the Lone Tree Arts Center benefits Shalom Park, a nonprofit senior community. 303-680-5000 • shalompark.org 11
Save the date for the Cancer League of Colorado’s 50th Anniversary Hope Ball at the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center. 303-281-9864 • cancerleague.org 18-19
The Colfax Marathon—Denver’s largest running weekend for 2019, where you can choose a charity of your choice to run for. runcolfax.org 19
Amp the Cause Community Day is when nearly 1,000 volunteers dedicate six hours to help 50 nonprofits improve their facilities. 303-605-2885 • ampthecause.org 22
The Mizel Institute Annual Dinner at the Wings Over The Rockies Air & Space Museum will honor Christie and Walter Isenberg at this year’s event. 303-749-5100 • mizelinstitute.org 25
Denver Day of Rock is a one-of-a-kind music event presented by Amp the
Cause to raise funds for, and awareness of, nonprofits in our community. 303-605-2885 • ampthecause.org 31
Children’s Museum is turning 46! Join them for the Birthday Bash, their most significant fundraiser held at the Children’s Museum. 303-443-7444 • mychildsmuseum.org 31
Wish of a Lifetime’s 11th annual gala— The Greatest Generation Now & Then will be held at the Seawell Ballroom. 303-954-9144 • wishofalifetime.org
June 1
The annual ALS Sunset Gala will be held at the Grand Hyatt Denver Pinnacle Club to benefit the ALS Association Rocky Mountain Chapter. 303-832-2322 • alsa.org 1
Save the date for the Denver Heart & Stroke Walk in support of the American Heart Association. Location TBA. 866-430-9255 • heart.org 1-2
The 19th annual Indian Market & Powwow held at The Fort Restaurant benefits educational programs at the Tesoro Cultural Center. 303-839-1671 • tesoroculturalcenter.org 1-9
Be a part of the effort to fight childhood cancer by supporting or hosting a lemonade stand in your community during Lemonade Days. alexslemonade.org Social Calendar covers formal fundraising events for nonprofit organizations throughout Colorado. If you wish to have an event listed, please contact Colorado Expression at 303-694-1289, or email info@coloradoexpression.com.
Purchasing power comes in all shapes and sizes.
D E N V E R • C H E R RY C R E E K • G R E E N WO O D V I L L AG E • C H E R RY H I L L S • CA ST L E R O C K • CA ST L E P I N E S
Let us help you find yours.
RIKE PALESE 303-522-5550 rpalese@classicnhs.com
JONATHAN KEILER 303-619-2917 jkeiler@classicnhs.com visit our website at rikejon.com
how sweet it is
Innovative baking techniques make for artinspired creations for special occasions
IF YOU HAVEN’T HEARD OF THE FAMOUS PAUL HOLLYWOOD HANDSHAKE OR KNOW WHO MARY BERRY IS, YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY WATCH “THE GREAT BRITISH BAKING SHOW.” THE WORLD IS ENAMORED WITH THIS SWEET BAKING COMPETITION. By Jamie McAfee
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Photo: Dave + Kylee Miller Photography
Photo: Rachel Havel Photography
Photo: Jared Wilson Photography
Photo: Elevate Photography
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how sweet it is
Wedding cakes
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This ultra elegant, four-tiered design from Gateaux Bakery was inspired by the bride’s Peter Langer Italian wedding gown, embellished with a fondant custom logo created for the event by Platypus Papers and fresh floral blooms from Prema Style. 2 The Sweet Cow Ice Cream Truck was a welcome addition to the cake for guests at Aubree and Devin’s blanc Denver wedding planned by A Touch of Bliss.
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One layer of this dessert tower for Jamie and Mike’s mountain Boho wedding was assorted cupcakes from The Makery with succulent buttercream top, just below a cutting cake. 2 These cupcakes by Gold Mine Cupcakes provided the perfect sweet treat. Flavors like lemon, turtle, white champagne and others adorned this rustic wood stand at this romantic mountain wedding.
Photo: Elevate Photography
The visual appearance of the traditional wedding cake has changed drastically. It’s still a centerpiece but the design has deviated from the round, white towers of the past. In 2019, wedding guests will see narrow, rectangular cakes gleaming in ultralux black fondant trimmed in gold. Modern, angular confections with architectural features are hot this year. Hexagonal cakes are held up by 3D prisms. Gravity defying upsidedown cakes dangle from chandeliers. Copper and metallic detailing adorn these chic designs. Refined, rustic weddings feature
PREVIOUS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM UPPER LEFT: 1 This couple chose pies from Long I Pie Shop as a dessert bar for their urban chic wedding at Factotum Brewhouse. Mini pies such as The Drunken Nut Chocolate Bourbon Pecan and Grandma’s spiced cranberry apple were among the many flavors guests could choose. 2 The Makery created this custom pink champagne geode cake for Mary and Austin’s wedding complete with amethyst rock candy and 100 percent edible pure 24 karat gold leafing. 3 Aubree and Devin surprised guests with a traditional croquembouche created by Gateaux Bakery complete with delicate white sugar flowers. 4 Created by Elegant Bakery, this whimsical wedding cake was a chocolate cake with chocolate mousse and raspberry filling, making for an amazing centerpiece for this fabulous wedding dessert buffet.
Photo: From the Hip Photo
Caterers, bakeries and pastry chefs are taking notice of this phenomena and stepping up their confection game. You need a unique skill set to create a one-of-a-kind dessert for an audience that is in love with baking right now. Here’s a taste (pun intended) of things to come this year.
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Photo: David Lynn Photography Photo: Alp & Aisle
Creating luxury wedding cakes that are as flavorful as they are visually stunning. WWW.INTRICATEICINGS.COM
303-479-9922
how sweet it is
minimalism with a twist. Handpainted watercolor cakes are decorated with beautiful brushstrokes in subtle hues. By adding edible flowers and greenery to one-tiered white cakes, couples are able to create various designs on several cakes. Distinctive cake flavors go beyond the customary vanilla buttercream to such specialties as chocolate raspberry truffle, salted caramel and chocolate cappuccino torte.
Mixing familiarity with innovation, couples are accompanying their wedding cakes with bite-size trifles and tarts. Complementing the wedding cake are tiny eats that pack a punch for guests. Bundt cakes, macarons, doughnuts, pies, cheesecake and tiramisu cups are given the same tender touch as the cake. Macarons are leafed with delicate gold foil surrounding rock candy geode detailing. Cookies are frosted to look like oil paintings. Gourmet doughnuts are stacked in a tower or hung from a peg board. Deconstructed pies inhabit the cutest of jars. Scrumptious collections of adorable sweet treats will spark joy at any baby shower, gala or birthday party. This year’s edible art is a feast for the eyes as well as the belly.
Photo: Emily Sacco Photography
Dessert bars
RIGHT TOP/BOTTOM: 1 Intricate Icings created this light blue geode four-tiered wedding cake with silver and rose gold leafing for this Cloud 9 “Whimsical Woodland” wedding. 2 This dark and moody cake by A Cake Come True contained fun and funky iridescent elements that ran throughout this “Thank You Celebration” held for and at Moss Denver by Footers Catering with decor by Brindle + Oak.
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Photo: The Scobeys
Jamie McAfee is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to the New West Publishing family. She is a big fan of the “Great British Baking Show” and can make a mean cheesecake.
Memories are meant to be revisited.
Set against rich woods and sophisticated interiors, or glimmering stars and city lights, memories that will last for a lifetime await at The Ritz-Carlton, Denver. Connect with us at ritzcarlton.com/denver.
kidstuff
It can be tough for busy parents to keep up with what’s cool among kids these days
DON’T FRET, WE’RE HERE TO HELP GET THOSE CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING. IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR SOME FUN AND INSPIRED NEW WAYS TO CELEBRATE YOUR KIDS’ MILESTONES THIS YEAR—WITHOUT OVEREXERTING YOUR TIME, ENERGY AND BUDGET— WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. By Lindsay Mitchell
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Photo: Cassidy Brooke Photography
Photo: Jared Wilson Photography
Photo: Walnut Street Photography
Photo: Cassidy Brooke Photography
kid stuff
Here are some of the top trends in kids’ party themes in 2019, so you can get a jump on planning the perfect party you and your children are sure to remember!
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With so many exciting new kids’ movies coming out in 2019, many children will be asking parents for moviethemed parties this year. From winter/spring releases like LEGO Movie 2, How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, and Dumbo, to the summer premieres of Pokémon, Aladdin, Toy Story 4, Spider-Man, The Lion King, Dora the Explorer and more, there’s sure to be a fun movie theme for every child’s birthday this year.
Photo: Walnut Street Photography
Movie-inspired birthdays
Superhero parties Superheroes are huge with kids (and adults) right now. Whether it’s a Wonder Woman birthday party, a more mature version of a Marvel theme for a bar mitzvah, or a general superhero theme where every kid can dress up as his or her favorite character, this theme is sure to be a hit with kids and parents celebrating all kinds of milestones. PREVIOUS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM UPPER LEFT:
1 This birthday cake by Gateaux Bakery was decorated with all of twins Jack and Charlotte’s favorites, at the Ashley Nicole Events Favorite Things Birthday Party. 2 For this avid Bronco Fan’s bar mitzvah at Dove Valley, event planner Affair with Flair along with DesignWorks combined signage, colors and Bronco-themed elements to this “Halftime at the Bar Mitzvah Bowl” celebration. 3 DesignWorks created these florals to include the favorite colors of Jack and Charlotte for their fourth birthday party. 4 Walli Richardson created an evening of games and sports at Temple Emanuel for two cousins’ celebration commemorating their b’nai mitzvah. 1 The space at Temple Emanuel was transformed with games planned by Walli Richardson Events at this b’nai mitzvah. 2 Ashley Nicole Events and DesignWorks infused all favorite things into a fourth birthday party at the Cherry Hills Country Club.
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Affair with Flair along with DesignWorks created rectangular playbook chalkboard tables topped with oversized Bronco players at this avid football fan’s bar mitzvah. 2 Theses colorful crayon and doughnut sugar cookies were created by Gateaux Bakery for a favorite things birthday party by event planner Ashley Nicole Events.
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Photo: Cassidy Brooke Photography
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Fun animals, mythical creatures and enchanting forests
Photo: Cassidy Brooke Photography
Photo: Jared Wilson Photography
Last year saw a huge resurgence of unicorn-obsessed girls, and that trend is likely to continue into 2019. Other creatures that kids are falling in love with include Peppa Pig, llamas and whimsical forest friends (think foxes, squirrels, owls, toads and fairies). There’s even a growing trend that industry leaders are calling the enchanted forest theme. Incorporate a scavenger hunt as well and you’ll be sure to knock it out of the park (or forest) for your child’s next party. Lindsay Mitchell is a Colorado-based freelance writer and marketing consultant. In addition to Colorado Expression, she is a regular contributor to Southwest Art magazine and a variety of digital publications.
Jodi’s Race for Awareness of Ovarian Cancer Saturday, June 8th, 2019 5K & 1 Mile Run/Walk City Park, Denver Register online at www.jodisrace.org benefiting
Ovarian Cancer’s Most Common Symptoms
Bloating
Difficulty Eating or Feeling Full Quickly
Pelvic or Abdominal Pain
Urinary Urgency or Frequency
Other symptoms may include: Fatigue Indigestion ■ Back Pain ■ Constipation ■ Pain with Intercourse ■ Menstrual Irregularities ■
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places&spaces
From meadows to mountain resorts, airplane hangars to performing arts venues, there’s a location suited to every gathering
SELECTING THE PERFECT VENUE FOR YOUR SPECIAL EVENT ISN’T A DECISION TO BE MADE LIGHTLY, AND IT’S OFTEN A DIFFICULT DECISION BECAUSE SO MANY ELEMENTS COME INTO PLAY. By Joanne Davidson
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Photo: Scott Dressel-Martin
Photo: Jared Wilson Photography
places&spaces
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For example: Is there sufficient parking? Is the site wheelchair-accessible? Does the rental fee include tables, chairs, linens, cutlery and china or must they be procured separately? Colorado abounds with spectacular settings. There are concert halls, deluxe hotels, beautifully restored historic properties, mountain meadows and even a former airplane hangar.
PREVIOUS PAGE TOP/BOTTOM: 1
Photo: Emily Sacco Photography
SK Event Specialists assisted this couple from Michigan in planning their dream wedding at Colorado’s Broadmoor Hotel, where DesignWorks did the floral and decor to create this elegant room. 2 The Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus offers sweeping views of the Denver skyline and many options for celebrations of any type from elegant weddings to fun-filled birthday parties.
RIGHT: Claire and Ian wanted a nature-inspired
theme for their “Whimsical Woodland” wedding by Cloud 9 Weddings at Spruce Mountain Ranch, complete with this romantic outdoor swing.
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Please Call 720-627-7173 for Tables & Tickets
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Photo: From the Hip Photo
Photo: Danielle Webster
places&spaces
Some options to consider include:
AEG Presents When there isn’t a concert scheduled, 1st Bank Center, the Bluebird, Gothic and Ogden theaters and Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater can be booked for weddings, networking events, new product launches and corporate conferences. 1st Bank Center can hold up to 6,500 people; the Bluebird, 500, for example. 720-931-8713 aegpresents.com
ATC DEN Gallery & Event Space Located at 3420 Larimer St. in Denver’s RiNo neighborhood, the garage doors at this sleek, 2,350-square-foot gallery LEFT TOP/BOTTOM: 1The FIRE Terrace of The ART, a
Photo: Camara Photography
hotel, offers downtown views of Denver and is an intimate setting for receptions and gatherings. 2 For their modern, elegant wedding, this couple found the Kimpton Hotel Born to be the perfect location, providing gorgeous Denver skyline and Union Station canopy views.
RIGHT: With views of the foothills and lights of
Denver, plus award-winning fine dining, The Fort Restaurant’s Western feel and romantic dining rooms proved perfect for this couple’s wedding.
meet. mingle. marry.
With sophisticated spaces and beautiful views, make your wedding, meeting or party unforgettable. o Take a tour today! Contact rentals@cmdenver.org or 303-561-0116.
mychildsmuseum.org 303-561-0116 • mychildsmuseum.org
places&spaces
Photo: From the Hip Photo
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Photo: Carrie King Photography
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Photo: Rachel Havel Photography
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Photo: From the Hip Photo
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open to an outdoor patio. Features at the ADA-compliant space include an on-site event planner, state-of-the-art sound system and catering kitchen. 757-613-3503 atcden.com
Country Club of the Rockies The wraparound terrace at the club’s Vista Restaurant, with its sweeping views of the golf course fairways and Rocky Mountains, is a popular site for LEFT CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: 1 This family has traveled the world and they wanted to incorporate their experiences into every aspect of this event, so what better location than Union Station for this rehearsal dinner by TGE Events. 2 Held at Quality Italian, this “Ladies Luncheon Bridal Shower” by Ashley Nicole Events incorporated everything the bride loves— pink, lush flowers, her favorite ladies and delicious Italian food. 3 Ashley Nicole Events planned this “Rustic Elegance” wedding at Cooked Willow Farms for a fun-loving couple. The flowers and decor by Newberry Brothers played off the combination of these aspects to create an unforgettable day. 4 Tamra + Dustin’s New Year’s Eve wedding at Grant-Humphrys Mansion was a Brat Pack-styled old Hollywood celebration by Total Imagination Events.
birthday parties, cocktail receptions, weddings and family gatherings. The restaurant has earned six consecutive awards of excellence from the Wine Spectator. An event planner and valet parking are included. 970-926-2111 countrycluboftherockies.com
Steel and Ironworks. It sat vacant for decades before being meticulously restored for events accommodating 50 to 350 people. There’s exposed brick, a grand staircase, sparkling chandeliers and a VIP room. 720-946-7721 ironworksdenver.co
The Hangar at Stanley
Moss Denver
Tall white walls and steel beams once used to lift aircraft put a unique touch on this space at the Stanley Marketplace, 2501 Dallas St., Aurora. It can be configured to accommodate groups ranging from 10 to 2,000. There’s WiFi, a fully-equipped catering kitchen and an outdoor patio. 720-588-2500 stanleymarketplace.com
This urban industrial wedding and event venue at 200 N. Santa Fe Drive in Denver’s Santa Fe Art District has exposed rafters, a polished cement floor, large factory-style windows, waterfall bar and a moss wall that rotates. 303-534-5403 mossdenver.com
Ironworks Situated across the parking lot from Mile High Station, 2027 W. Colfax Ave., Ironworks was built in 1903 as the office for 100 draftsmen for Midwest
To paraphrase an insurance company’s TV commercial, Joanne Davidson knows a thing or two about event venues because she’s seen a thing or two… during her 30 years of covering special events for The Denver Post.
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BY COLLEEN SMITH
THE WISH LIST
Making it easy to give the perfect gift GIFT REGISTRIES
ELIMINATE GUESSWORK
FROM AMAZON TO ZOLA, OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE
TO FIT ANY CELEBRATION, INTEREST OR BUDGET
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AN ADAGE HOLDS THAT THE BEST GIFTS TO GIVE are ones you’d like to keep for yourself. Yet since there’s no accounting for personal taste, there’s the gift registry. Whether for weddings, baby showers or anniversary parties; whether at large retailers such as Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus or Williams-Sonoma or at singular gift boutiques such as The Lark in central Denver, the registry takes the guesswork out of buying a perfect present for a milestone event. Gift registries save time, money and hassle—even more so now in the digital age. Registry sites and apps offer conveniences such as uploading product barcodes and photos, leaving digital notes for guests, or tactfully suggesting higher-ticket items as group gifts. Some stores—Crate & Barrel, for example—offer their own registry and also are partner stores on aggregate registries. Some registries feature buttons to add to a bookmarks bar so registrants can augment their wish list easily with a click. Others offer deep discounts on wedding website design. Some online wedding registries, including The Knot, include a free suite of wedding planning tools. A quiz helps couples determine their wedding style. Checklists assist with planning, budgeting and finding local wedding vendors: jewelers, florists, videographers, DJs, reception venues, hotels and more. Online or in-store, there’s a gift registry to fit any celebration, interest or budget. When gifts are shipped directly to recipients through a registry, guests need not carry a gift into a reception. Those being feted need not worry about keeping track of or hauling loads of gifts. Registries not only simplify, they also offer enticing bonus benefits. Some department stores offer various incentives: brand reward points for gifts purchased through their registry, discounts and rebates— sometimes for both shoppers and registrants. Some stores offer completion incentives. For example, if all place settings on a registry are purchased, the store adds a set of matching mixing bowls. With dozens of options from Amazon to Zola, online registries are proliferating and offering a lot more than housewares. Wine registries are ideal for oenophiles, whatever occasion they’re toasting. Outdoorsy, adventurous couples can register for REI gear. Registries help couples afford a
romantic honeymoon or anniversary trip, a skydiving excursion, couple’s massage or cooking classes—even a down payment on a house. Registries can reflect values such as free trade. Older couples merging two already established homes may have more belongings than they need, in which case they can opt for guests to contribute to favorite causes or donate to pertinent charities by registering at sites such as justgiving.org. Zola ranks as a popular wedding web registry, and for good reasons. Zola offers 50,000 gifts, experiences and funds in one place. Registrants can add gifts from other stores to a Zola registry and receive a discount valid for six months after the wedding date. Zola can ship all items purchased through a wedding registry free of charge. Zola charges a cash fund credit card processing fee that can be passed along to guests or absorbed by recipients. Amazon’s universal bridal and baby registries makes sense for people familiar with Amazon and for those who’d like to register for a few things here and a few things there, rather than creating an entire registry at a few sites. Blueprint’s registries for wedding, parenting or any other occasion is another all-inclusive option with a free platform and many benefits. With products from small shops or bigbox stores, Blueprint registries also can include cash-based gifts to fund honeymoons or donate to a favorite nonprofit. To ease the thank-you-note process, Blueprint has a gift tracker. A registry concierge helps with any snags. For guests who prefer to give money and for recipients who prefer cash to cookware, a tendr.com registry makes the monetary exchange more elegant and safer than leaving a check in a card that could get lost at a reception. The registry offers simple and safe methods to pay online. Whatever the occasion, personalization adds a significant touch to a gift. People tend to treasure gifts engraved, embossed, embroidered or printed with their monogram or name. Frontgate’s gift registry has an array of items—everything from doormats to serving trays—with possibilities for making a gift truly personal. Colleen Smith, an award-winning writer, publishes in many newspapers, magazines and online sites. She sees registries as a gift both to people giving and receiving presents.
Curating your gift registry
JILL LIVRAN OWNS THE LARK, a Denver gift and home accessories store opened in 1970. Livran, now serving a third generation of Colorado brides and grooms, shared some gift registry wisdom. “If you actually put a lot of thought into your registries, your gifts will have meaning and purpose in your life,” Livran says. “And you won’t have things to return. It takes a level of stress out.” Whether choosing an online registry or a boutique, these guidelines improve any gift registry. REGISTER EARLY. LOOK TOWARD THE FUTURE. “Young people might live in an apartment, but don’t think about where you live today. You will probably evolve as a couple. Picture the way you’d like your life to be,” Livran says. “And consider family traditions. If you want to host family Thanksgiving, you’ll need more place settings and napkins and a big carving board for the turkey.” Include all price ranges. Livran says, “Individuals often have a dollar amount in mind.” CONSIDER WHETHER THE COMPANY HAS A NEARBY BRICKS-AND-MORTAR STORE. Returning gifts to a store can prove easier, and the 3-D experience enriches the registry process. “You’ll want to touch and feel things; and in a store, you’ll find something else you might want to pick,” Livran says. FIND OUT IF THE STORE OFFERS COMPLIMENTARY, PRIVATE, IN-PERSON CONSULTATIONS with home stylists or other experts. An appointment can prove the most efficient and effective way to choose merchandise and pose questions. “We can have anything special-ordered from catalogs,” says Livran. REGISTER AT MORE THAN ONE PLACE. Some guests might prefer to contribute to an experience funded by a registry. Others prefer a lasting, traditional gift. “People like selections,” Livran says. INCLUDE PLENTY OF OPTIONS. “Make sure you have enough items at a place to register,” Livran says. “It’s frustrating for consumers to find only 10 things at the store.” ASK IF A REGISTRY COMES WITH A COST OR IS PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE. Some charge a percentage, a cost some couples pass along to guests. “There’s no charge for our registry or for gift-wrapping,” Livran says of The Lark. LOOK FOR PERKS: completion discounts, rebates and other registry bonuses. LOOK CAREFULLY AT CURRENT REGISTRY INCENTIVES subject to change. REVIEW ALL TERMS CAREFULLY when using an online registry. RESEARCH SHIPPING, GIFT-WRAPPING AND RETURN POLICIES. Livran says, “Duplicates do happen because sometimes people go online to the company rather than purchasing a gift through our store.” SELECT ITEMS THAT REFLECT YOUR LIVES AND TASTE. “Don’t fall into what your peers or others are doing,” Livran says. “A registry should be very personal and individual.” MARK YOUR CALENDAR TO TRACK EXPIRATION DATES for completion discounts or other time-limited offers. AVOID NOTING YOUR REGISTRIES ON SAVE-THE-DATE NOTIFICATIONS OR WEDDING INVITATIONS. Enough said. “For shower invitations, it’s appropriate,” Livran said. “Our customers learn about our bridal registries through word-of-mouth from the family or other people close to the couple.” LAST BUT NOT LEAST, don’t forget to send thank you notes.
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From photo books to time capsules, here are some ways to save and share life’s most precious moments
For memory lane
WITH CELEBRATIONS, VACATIONS, FAMILY AND FRIENDS, life is a continuing series of memorable moments. If you have electronic devices filled to the brim with pictures and video clips, and your closets are overflowing with stacks of boxes containing can’t-throw-away mementos, you’re not alone. Overwhelmed? We’ve got practical and creative ways to display your precious memories, keep them at your fingertips and save them for generations to come.
Photos
BOOKS. Denver-based Artifact Uprising began when cofounder and photographer Jenna Walker realized her life’s documented moments had “no true place to live on.” Walker has the ultimate quote on the company website: “What are we leaving behind?” The company’s photography-focused product choices are a combination of stylized cool and personalized warmth, and the entire website is full of design ideas and accompanying blogs on a range of subjects. There’s also a phone helpline for building a new project— ask for wedding design services and an in-house pro will create your lay-flat wedding album. Artifact Uprising’s beautiful baby books include journal space, a pen that best complements the quality paper—even adhesive to for pictures and memorabilia. Wedding guest books include pages printed with photos of the happy couple, with room for friends and family to write personal notes.
FRAMES. The possibilities for framing photos and keepsakes are endless with products readily available in retail outlets and online. Complement your décor with traditional or contemporary styles in wood, metal and brass for walls and tabletops. Create a splashy wall display with uniform photo sizes and identical frames, or mix it up. A photo ledge or floating wall shelf can accommodate a series of images, framed or not. For more whimsical framing options, visit a website such as etsy.com. De-digitize social media and stored photos. Get those photos into one device and organize them into files. Too many, too much? Delete less-compelling images and choose your favorites to keep or display. Digitize fragile photos. Back up fragile photos, saved for years, by digitizing them with a scanning service or device.
DIGITAL STORAGE. Use a cloud service for your favorite
photos and videos that can be accessed by family members and back them up with a hard drive. When you want to share images with everyone, use photo-focused Instagram or Flickr, and change privacy settings to fit your needs.
Clothing Use a professional service to clean and preserve your wedding gown or other cherished apparel to keep and hand down to future generations. Query family, friends and coworkers on their experiences to find the best expert for you. You can also repurpose your wedding dress to use as a christening gown or even a commemorative teddy bear (bowmanbears.com) for your children. Cut tiny swatches to put into a pendant or ring. Or create a clear holiday ornament with apparel material inside. A perennial favorite: Use material squares from several keepsake garments—from t-shirts to dresses—to create a memory quilt, suitable for framing.
Mementos Get creative. Place a wedding photo surrounded by dried flowers from the bridal bouquet in a shadow box. Save a bottle of wine from your reception to savor on your first anniversary— couples can create their own vintage wine and signature wine label for the occasion. Have a commemorative wedding/celebration poster created, and have guests sign it at the event. For another alternative guestbook, family and friends at wedding and graduation celebrations can write advice to honorees on stones to be kept in a stylish container (etsy.com).
Scrapbooks If you’re artistically inclined, you’re in DIY heaven with available supplies at craft stores. Need some help with photos, clippings and your kids’ artwork? Visit a scrapbook store-and-studio, such as Affordable Scrapbooking in southeast Aurora or WLC2 (We Love Cropping 2) in Highlands Ranch for products, classes and advice.
Cards So many cards! Keep the sentiment by making pieces of cards into a collage to frame. Or punch holes in each card and place them in a small three-ring binder.
Photo: Artifact Uprising
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BY LISA PERRY
Time capsules
Travel jars
To commemorate a wedding or special occasion, or to start a family tradition, gather mementos, notes and letters, photos and videos to store in a time capsule. Store it in a safe place to open on a significant future date.
Display collected stones and small knickknacks from vacations or a honeymoon in a clear jar. For oceanside trips, collect sand to layer and label with a mix of shells.
Video Hire a professional, or make a DIY version to keep and share. Not a budding journalist? Find a list of questions online to interview your eldest relatives, or just ask all family members to share their favorite stories at various times of their life.
Commission an artist Some special occasions and memory preservation projects call for a professional. Set up a photo shoot for a wedding, anniversary or family portrait. Create a piece of custom jewelry. Take the time to choose an artist or expert who understands your goals and has a style that intrigues you and matches your vision. APRIL/MAY 2019 COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM
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Eventplanning SIMPLIFIED VenuHub.com offers a centralized service for locating a space as well as vendors that meet the needs of party givers
WITH THE JANUARY LAUNCH OF VENUHUB.COM, event planning in the Denver metro area got a whole lot easier. You might even say that connecting with venues and vendors is now just a click away. • There is no charge to use the user-friendly website designed by Ligature Creative and supported by the members of the 10-year-old Greater Denver Venue Network. “Complete one simple form (on the website) and GDVN venues that match your criteria will reach out directly to you,” explains website founder Dawn Williams, the director of event sales and marketing for the Denver Center for the Performing Arts and manager of its popular Seawell Ballroom. Response to queries is quick and complete. Prior to VenuHub.com, event planners—be they professional or volunteer—often spent copious amounts of time searching for the perfect spot to hold events ranging from charity galas and weddings to product launches and networking receptions. They sometimes overlooked venues that they may not have heard of, or assumed would not be available for a particular function. VenuHub.com’s vendor friends, included on a list that will be updated twice a year, include caterers, florists, musicians, photographers, graphic artists and others who are known by the network’s planners and have a history of high standards and quality work.
BY JOANNE DAVIDSON
APRIL/MAY 2019 COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM
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Photo: From The Hip Photo
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In addition to the website, VenuHub.com’s Facebook and Instagram feeds offer pictures from “vendors and spaces that we love.” VenuHub.com’s purpose, Williams says, is to “take the heavy lifting out of searching. You don’t have to call every venue’s manager or visit every website. VenuHub.com does the sorting for you.” The need for a central source such as VenuHub.com became apparent during the “lunch and chat” sessions that started in the 1990s by what was then the Downtown Private Dining Group—men and women who managed, booked or promoted such topflight restaurants as The Palm, Morton’s and the former ESPN Zone. That group is now called the Downtown Denver Restaurant Leads Group. Williams describes the venue network’s 106 members as an “incredible, collaborative group of people looking out for the best interests of the people we serve.” They represent 87 sites that stretch from Larkspur to Thornton and from Aurora to Arvada and can accommodate crowds ranging in size from 10 to 6,500. They include art galleries, historic buildings, museums, concert halls and even a waterfront property. It was at the networking group’s monthly meetings that the idea for VenuHub.com came to light. Along with discussions about such venuespecific issues as contracts, insurance, liquor laws and job leads, members also would sigh and say words to the effect of “someone really should capture all of the data relating to vetted venues and vendors….” It was a spoton idea, but one that languished until two years ago when Williams decided it was time to act. “I interviewed a bunch of software and graphic design people and hired Ligature Creative, whose work I had
LEFT/RIGHT: VenuHub Partners Kristin Hutton, Molly Fortune, Marissa Rebozo, Kathleen Obie, Nell Roberts, Troy Stabenow, Patty Moser, Sheryl Renee Lynch, Dawn Williams, Jennifer Robinson and Renee Ortiz at Stanley Marketplace
details VenuHub.com
PURPOSE: To simplify the event venue search FOUNDER: Dawn Williams, a 25-year veteran of the hospitality industry whose experience includes sales and marketing at several of Denver’s high-end restaurants. She is currently director of event sales and marketing for the Denver Center for the Performing Arts and manager of its Seawell Ballroom ACCESS: Free to those searching for a venue or vendor BACKED BY: The Greater Denver Venue Network, whose 106 members include Denver Art Museum, Bigsby’s Folly, Field House Event Venue, Mile High Station, AEG Presents, The Vehicle Vault and Walker Fine Art Gallery
long admired, and our idea became a project that quickly grew legs,” she says. As director of the Seawell Ballroom, Williams was faced, almost on a daily basis, with event planners sharing how difficult it had become to secure a venue. Conventions may be a boon to Denver’s economy, but planners fiind that hotels are giving these large groups priority in reserving ballroom space. Organizers of charity galas have learned that if they don’t lock in venue space at least a year in advance, they’re likely to be out of luck. “Settling on a date is a job in itself, so imagine the frustration when you finally get everyone to agree on one only to find a venue that you had
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wanted wasn’t available because it had been booked by someone else a year, or more, in advance,” Williams says. Response to VenuHub.com has been overwhelmingly positive. April Anne Chase, venue director for the Stanley Marketplace in Aurora, describes VenuHub.com as a “great resource for planners and vendors alike.” Jennifer Robinson of AEG Presents likes how the website enables planners to “cast a wide net in a very time-efficient way,” while Nicole Johnson, who manages the event space Moss Denver, says she and her colleagues are “thrilled to be a part of such an incredible group of professionals that care so much about each other and their clients.” Danielle Kelley, events manager at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, points out that “With so many amazing venues out there, picking the right one can feel like a lot to take on, but VenuHub.com makes it easy. Not only does it help you quickly narrow your search, but no matter what, you can be confident that you’ll be in good hands working with the most talented industry folks out there.” “I plan events all over the Denver metro area and am so thrilled to have VenuHub.com as a resource,” adds Leah Brinks, who manages events and sponsorships for Mountain Living magazine. “VenuHub.com makes it super easy to find the right venue for each event.” Williams is currently in the process of trademarking VenuHub.com and while she’s excited about its future, she doesn’t want it to grow to the point where it becomes unwieldy. “We’ve created this amazing machine and while we do anticipate expansion, we don’t want it to lose the human touch.” Or the words that the VenuHub.com principals live by: Don’t compete. Collaborate! Joanne Davidson has written about charitable fundraising events for The Denver Post for 30 years and during that time has fielded numerous calls from people asking if there was a central source for finding a suitable venue. With venuhub.com there now is.
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i do fashion
Designers rethink the traditional bridal gown, transforming it into a fashion statementmaker by combining runway trends with couture craftsmanship
BRIDAL COLLECTIONS AND INTERNATIONAL FASHION RUNWAYS ARE USUALLY ON TWO DIFFERENT TREND WAVELENGTHS, BUT THEY’RE INCREASINGLY GROWING CLOSER TOGETHER. By Georgia Benjou
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Photo: Hardy Klahold Photography
i do fashion
f
PREVIOUS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM UPPER LEFT:
1 This private label modern Gatsby metal chain dress is exclusively available at Mariel. 2 A flowing, Mira Zwillinger’s gown with an A-line tulle skirt emphasizes a fitted bodice with narrow straps. 3 Designer Brooks Luby from Brooks LTD created this embroidered tulle dress with turquoise underlay. 4 The ‘Elke’ gown by Hayley Paige is a Luxembourg lace two piece gown with a cascading overskirt. Collection available at anna bé bridal boutique. 1 Hayley Paige’s blush mini slip dress is paired with a sheer feathered cape, making it the party look post-ceremony. 2 Beautiful shoes and accessories complete a wedding ensemble. 3 New York-based designer Alon Livne White, a favorite of celebrities like Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez, is known for his dramatic and glamorous silhouettes.
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Photo: Zorn Photography
Case in point: There’s been a recent obsession with sleeves over several seasons, from the classic bohemian peasant to medieval-inspired Juliet versions. Bridal designers including Galia Lahav (sold at Little White Dress), Temperley and Ines Di Santo (Anna Bé) used that inspiration to work delicate, sheer poet sleeves into their lineups. Di Santo’s were detachable, allowing her gowns an easy transition from church to reception. Leanne Marshall’s (Emma & Grace) voluminous bishop sleeves were another standout example. Classic corsetry is a bridal mainstay, but it looked fresh in graceful and feminine silhouettes instead of overtly sexy ones. It’s a romantic, almost ballet-inspired approach that looked best when paired with soft tulle skirts, as seen at Lela Rose (Little White Dress), Inbal Dror (La Vallée Bridal), Mira Zwillinger (Little White Dress) and Vera Wang. For romance and glamour, look to feathers. Designers such as Zuhair Murad used them to draw attention to
Photo: Hayley Paige
For the fall 2019 collections, bridal designers tailored details and embellishments seen on the runways to create wedding looks that are more fashion-forward than ever.
a feminine décolletage, create a glamorous shrug as Justin Alexander did (Little White Dress and The Bridal Collection), or accent a full skirt (designer Liz Martinez, whose gowns are offered at La Vallée Bridal). True modernists are nixing the sparkle and turning instead to the 1990’s minimalism revival. But instead of basic, think sculptural, as presented by Romona Keveza (Anna Be, Felicé Bridal), who focused on the curvaceous line of her diamond white dresses, while Alon Livne White’s (La Vallée Bridal) streamlined Melissa gown is finished with a sensual, asymmetrical organza bow. Another 90’s revisit is the crop top. Any woman working a body positive vibe (and her abs) for her wedding day can choose from Cushnie’s sleek offthe-shoulder version or Pronovias’ (Felicé Bridal) more dramatic interpretation, paired with an A-line, feather-trimmed skirt. End the night in this season’s other major trend: the after-party look. The most fun option has to be the mini, which is either dramatically draped by Naeem Khan (Little White Dress) and Oscar De La Renta, or ready to dance the night away at Elie Saab, Rime Arodaky and Hayley Paige (Anna Bé).
Photo: Dudi Hasson
i do fashion
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1 Young Israeli designer Liz Martinez has become known for her elegant, yet sensual designs. 2 Naeem Khan’s mini column gown is dramatically draped and embroidered. 3 Designers are paying attention to the back of a gown as well as the front. 4 Justin Alexander channels 1930s Hollywood glam in silk Mikado and feathers. 78
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Photo: Rachel Havel Photography
Georgia Alexia Benjou is a fashion stylist, editor and consultant whose work has been seen in numerous national and international publications. She loves covering bridal trends because it’s one of the few times real women can indulge themselves in fantasy dressing without feeling guilty.
Impeccably dressed Made-for-you Original designs By Appointment GALAS WEDDINGS SOCIAL EVENTS
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DEN V ER, CO | 303.573.3801 | BROOKSLT D.NE T
withthisring
From ethical sourcing to custom design, what couples are looking for in 2019
WEDDING AND ENGAGEMENT RING SHOPPING IS A FAR DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE FOR COUPLES TODAY THAN IT WAS FOR THEIR PARENTS OR GRANDPARENTS. NOT ONLY IS THE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE DIFFERENT, FACTORS SUCH AS SOCIAL MEDIA AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ARE COMING INTO PLAY. By Suzanne S. Brown
c
The same goes for stones, with couCouples don’t just walk into the jewelry store and ples re-using diamonds and incorpopick out rings. Instead, rating gems from other special pieces they focus on educating of jewelry and family heirlooms into themselves first on the 4 their rings. C’s of diamond shopping: cut, color, clarity and carat The price is right weight. To some, size is With the high cost of diamonds, couwhat matters, while others ples want to be sure they’re getting are more interested in the competitive pricing, which is why jewelers are sourcing their stones online color or cut of a stone. A good jeweler will help couples sort out their priorities. Colorado jewelers also say they are often working with same-sex couples, whose jewelry preferences aren’t always traditional. In addition, modern couples preshop online, where the bride-to-be might have a Pinterest and/or Instagram account to which she posts images of wedding jewelry along other aspects of the occasion she and her intended are planning. Companies like Engage, a new division of Hyde Park Jewelry, are using artificial intelligence and social media channels to help couples make ring choices. The bride or groom can download the Engage by Hyde Park app, input factors like budget, stone shape and quality and then look at available options and begin building a ring. Engage also has a try-on station at its Cherry Creek store, so that the couple can visit and put rings on their fingers to see how a given design’s size and shape feel before ordering. The store also has a 3D printer to make the custom design process a reality.
through certified sources that provide documentation through the Gemological Institute of America so they know exactly what they’re buying.
ing rings that fit with the Colorado lifestyle, so the designs in her Kindle Commitment Jewelry line are in durable metals and materials. It’s easy to get dazzled by the beautify of a ring, but if it’s impractical, you’ll have to have it repaired, Holllier says. “Pavé and halo set stones can fall out, so we do more bezel-stet stones and Euro shanks that keep the stone from spinning on your finger,” she says, adding, “I don’t want to see the ring back in my shop for repairs.” She also likes alternative stones such as sapphires and lab-grown diamonds and steers couples away from opals, which can dull with age.
Yellow gold and white Topaz Halo Ring designed by Little Bird from Engage
Ethical sourcing A big priority with modern couples is to have rings made with diamonds and other stones that have been sourced in ethical ways, giving them confidence that no forced labor was used to mine or produce them. Jewelers work with certifying agencies to verify where stones are from. Recycled metals are popular as well, whether a couple uses the gold from a parent or grandparent’s ring, or another source. Jewelers say that alternative metals such as tungsten and titanium are in demand for men’s bands.
Couples are also buying stones directly from companies such as the Denver-based Diamond Reserve, which will sell the loose stone or make a custom ring using the stone or stones a customer selects. Kaeleigh Testwuide, founder of the company, says that while tastes vary widely, two trends that are strong in 2019 are oval diamonds and yellow gold.
Practical and beautiful Jamie Hollier of Balefire Goofs says she has given a lot of thought to mak-
Surprise? The person popping the question often wants an element of surprise, but what do you do if he or she doesn’t love the ring? Companies are offering loaner rings so that a partner can select a ring for his or her intended, but then bring it back when it’s time to order a forever ring. Suzanne S. Brown is the former fashion editor of The Denver Post and a contributing editor to Colorado Expression. APRIL/MAY 2019 COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM
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Funfest A mountain-luxe look for The Wine Group’s tent at Denver Food & Wine was created with dramatic gray draping, a custom greenery backdrop with acrylic logo signs accented by a fuchsia wave of carnations and flanked by reclaimed wood walls. While guests waited in line at the custom-built adult frozen drinks stand, a DJ spun tunes and a violinist played for guests. Cowhide and modern gray lounges framed the tent next to the garden party lawn and custom perimeter designed with live trees, crates and cases.
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EVENT PLANNER Total Imagination Events LOCATION The Pepsi Center Parking Lot DECOR Amora Event Group FLORAL Bella Lu Floral SPECIALTY BEVERAGES Custom Chloe Froze Lemonade Stand FROZEN DRINK MACHINES Denver Premiere Event Rentals LINENS/TENTS Flexx Productions RENTALS A Love Tale Rentals CHAIRS Highlights Denver MUSIC/DJ DJ Big Styles; On Cue Entertainment, Violinist PRINTED ITEMS Platypus Papers PHOTOGRAPHY Muntz Studios
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IN THE
SPOTLIGHT
When two talented thespians planned their wedding, they set out to create an entertaining day in the spotlight. The Cottonwood Ballroom of the Four Seasons Hotel Denver was transformed into a breathtaking ceremony area. A glorious chuppah was built to showcase the wedding party. Cocktails and appetizers were served on the pool deck. As guests entered the ballroom, formally attired staff members positioned next to each table held a clear Lucite number directing people to their tables. Hot scented hand towels were presented to refresh. Dinner, dancing, fabulous decor and lighting as well as music added to the celebration. A creative candy station concluded the festivities.
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EVENT PLANNER Walli Richardson Events FACILITY/CATERING/CAKE/NITRO ICE CREAM/SERVICE WARE/TRANSPORTATION/VALET Four Seasons Hotel Denver DECOR/FLORAL/CUSTOM CARD BOX/RENTALS/LINENS/LIGHTING DesignWorks BRIDE’S DRESS Gia by Galia, Little White Dress Bridal Shop BRIDE’S VEIL Lark Label Classic, Little White Dress Bridal Shop BRIDE’S SHOES Emily London, Little White Dress Bridal Shop BRIDE’S HAIR Serena Masuda BRIDE’S MAKEUP Ian Robson, Bobbi Brown at Nordstrom Cherry Creek GROOM’S TUX/SUIT Suitsupply Denver CHAIRS Charming Chairs AUDIO/VIDEO/TECHNICAL/ENTERTAINMENT/MUSIC/DJ Mannequin The Band INVITATIONS/PRINTED ITEMS Inscriptions by Hannah CALLIGRAPHY Walli Richardson VIDEOGRAPHY Lupher Arts PHOTOGRAPHY Studio JK
Absolutely
wondrous
Golden autumn leaves on Mount Sopris provided the ceremony backdrop at the Roaring Fork Club. The “Something Blue” cocktail reception was held under cerulean Aspen skies at the St. Regis Resort and featured antique porcelain chinoiserie, white lacquer furniture from Miami, Persian carpets, a monogrammed ice sculpture and Veuve Clicquot bar. The Grand Astor Ballroom was transformed into a posh, all-white, hot-and-popping soiree. Crystal and orchids adorned the tables and musicians from both coasts entertained the crowd. The bride’s toast to her groom touched hearts and was as dazzling as the room. It was an all-white, wondrous wedding—Aspen-style.
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EVENT PLANNER John Tobey Event Design FACILITY CEREMONY Roaring Fork Club RECEPTION St. Regis Aspen Resort DECOR Eclectic Hive FLORAL Forget Me Not Flowers CATERING St. Regis Aspen Resort CAKE d’Elissious Cake Studio of Aspen SWEETS/SPECIALTY DESSERTS D Bar Denver BRIDE’S DRESS CEREMONY Isabelle Armstrong RECEPTION Pnina Tornai REHEARSAL Houghton, NYC BRIDE’S SHOES CEREMONY Joyce Echols RECEPTION Jimmy Choo BRIDE’S HAIR Queen B Salon, Rita Bellino BRIDE’S MAKEUP Full Circle Aspen, Cheyenne Montoya GROOM’S TUX/SUIT élevée Fine Clothing Aspen, Rickey Lamitie LINENS Linens Unlimited SERVICE WARE Event Rents LIGHTING/AUDIO/VIDEO/TECHNICAL Halcyon Productions RENTALS Decora/Imperial Rentals; Premier Party Rentals; Bethel Party Rentals; Asian Antiques and Silk Carpets, Noori’s Collection; White Piano, Paul Howes Piano Company CHAIRS Decora Event Rentals; Imperial Event Rentals MUSIC/DJ Jimmy Hopper; Meredith Deidel; Kat V; DJ Falomi INVITATIONS/ PRINTED ITEMS/CALLIGRAPHY You’re Invited VIDEOGRAPHY Silent James Films PHOTOGRAPHY Custom Creations Photography
Aruba adventure Kristen and Alex hosted their guests in paradise. The Hyatt Regency on Palm Beach in Aruba was the perfect venue for the ceremony by the sea, followed by a reception under a giant palapa. Cocktail hour featured larger-than-life marquee lights spelling “I Do,” and after dinner, guests danced under market lights and the stars. Many aren’t aware Aruba is a desert island, outside of the hurricane belt, covered with cacti and surrounded by calm turquoise waters on one side and rock cliffs and deep sapphire water on the other. Kristen and Alex showcased the landscape by showing epic photos from all over the island, including drone shots.
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EVENT PLANNER Rosy Nuboer FACILITY/CATERING/CAKE/LINENS/SERVICE WARE/CHAIRS/MUSIC/DJ/TRANSPORTATION Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Spa & Casino DECOR House of Mosaic FLORAL Greta Koolman BRIDE’S DRESS Luv Bridal Denver; Donna Beth Creations BRIDE’S HAIR PIECE Donna Beth Creations BRIDE’S SHOES Badgley Mischka, Jewel BRIDE’S HAIR/MAKEUP Facetté The Hair Experience GROOM’S TUX/SUIT Suitsupply Denver LIGHTING/AUDIO/VIDEO Elite Production INVITATIONS/PRINTED ITEMS Minted VIDEOGRAPHY/PHOTOGRAPHY Zorn Photography APRIL/MAY 2019 COLORADOEXPRESSION.COM
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EVENT PLANNER E5 Events FACILITY Palazzo Verdi DECOR Charming Chairs; Little Eden Plantscaping; Max & Livie FLORAL Newberry Brothers CATERING Epicurean Catering SWEETS/SPECIALTY DESSERTS Colorado Bike Blenders, Hunter Remer SPECIALTY BEVERAGES Cocktail Courier; Westbound & Down Brewing Company LINENS/RENTALS Butler Rents; Event Rents LIGHTING Lighting by Scott; Highlights CHAIRS Event Rents AUDIO/VIDEO Imprint Group ENTERTAINMENT Imprint Group; OmFest Colorado; Wilhelmina Denver MUSIC/DJ DJ Desire; Imprint Group; Spinphony PRINTED ITEMS DesignWorks; Fast Signs TRANSPORTATION Jay’s Valet PHOTOGRAPHY Amanda Tipton
Welcome to the neighborhood For the relaunch and rebranding of The Neighborhood @ Fiddler’s Green, E5 Events enticed current and potential investors to the up-andcoming community and promoted arts education, health and technology awareness to align with the company’s campaign of “A Breath of Fresh: Working, Thinking, Living.” The event featured a yoga demonstration, pop-up beer garden serving JMC’s crafted brew, custom decals scattered throughout, and guests even created their own healthy smoothies on the pedal smoothie bikes.
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EVENT PLANNER Ashley Nicole Events FACILITY/CATERING/SWEETS Glenmoor Country Club DECOR/FLORAL/CHINA Yonder House LINENS Mod Mix Studio SERVICE WARE Colorado Party Rentals; Event Rents RENTALS/CHAIRS Yonder House; Event Rents MUSIC A Music Plus Entertainment, Pat Bruno INVITATIONS Minted MENUS Hazel Eye Designs PHOTOGRAPHY Carrie King
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Over the moon
This baby shower was inspired by the parents’ “over the moon” love to welcome new baby Charlotte into the world. Christy Allen was blessed with a beautiful boy and now she was to welcome a little girl into the world. Guests were greeted with champagne and mocktails while a guitarist played and sang songs such as “Somewhere Over The Rainbow.” Brunch was served on the terrace overlooking the club’s lush grounds. A small floral box personalized with each guest’s name decorated the place settings. The table was decorated with flowers and pink glasses, while a large mirror moon accented the china. The heart-shaped menu featured matching stars and moons.
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Mountain meets Boho
Jamie and Michael said their vows against the backdrop of a flowing river on a private estate in Boulder. Their wedding vision was to marry the concept of mountain and boho (Mo-Ho), with a whimsical and vibrant palette of sorbets and jewel tones, grounded with hues of blue, green, gray and gold. A tepee adorned with cowhide rugs, floral clusters, garland and a chandelier was a gathering spot, as were campfire s’mores and a cigar station. A garden tent was filled with orchids and greenery, while a chandelier hung over the dance floor. Gold geometrics, cactus, moss and brilliant blooms decorated the reception tent.
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EVENT PLANNER Total Imagination Events FACILITY Private Estate DECOR Statice Floral Design; Total Imagination Events FLORAL Statice Floral Design CATERING Footers Catering SWEETS/SPECIALTY DESSERTS Happy Bakeshop BRIDE’S DRESS Emma + Grace Bridal Shop BRIDE’S VEIL Emma + Grace Airvail BRIDE’S HAIR/MAKEUP Liana Kathryn Makeup GROOM’S TUX/SUIT Suitsupply Denver RENTALS/CHAIRS/LINENS/SERVICE WARE/TENTS/LIGHTING Colorado Party Rentals ENTERTAINMENT Diamond Empire Band INVITATIONS/PRINTED ITEMS Blue Horse Designs RESTROOMS Royal Restrooms of Utah VIDEOGRAPHY Garrity Productions PHOTOGRAPHY David Lynn Photography
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Happily ever after
Le Meridien Hotel in Denver was the location for an quarterly Wedding International Professionals Association gathering and an opportunity to showcase floral decor, cake, entertainment, photography and other celebration elements to wedding professionals. The theme came from the detailed story behind the Le Meridien. The hotel’s decor was inspired by a Parisian woman and a Spanish man, so details including lush florals, custom linens, an 8-foot-tall cake, hand-painted tiles, vignettes and models transported guests to Spain and France.
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EVENT PLANNER First Look Events FACILITY/CATERING/AUDIO/VIDEO/TECHNICAL Le Meridien Hotel DECOR Eclectic Hive FLORAL Plum Sage Flowers CAKE Intricate Icings BRIDE’S DRESS/VEIL Little White Dress Bridal Shop BRIDE’S HAIR Beauty on Location BRIDE’S MAKEUP Faces by Liz POTTERY Adalia Hughes LINENS Chair Covers & Linens RENTALS/CHAIRS/SERVICE WARE Event Rents LIGHTING Elite Entertainment MUSIC/DJ DTP Events INVITATIONS Whimsey Design Studio PRINTED ITEMS/CALLIGRAPHY Handsome Love Calligraphy VIDEOGRAPHY Love Story Films PHOTOGRAPHY Sara Lynn Photo
Rustic Elegance
Both the bride and groom were involved in the planning of decor for their big day. They love elegance, but also wanted a rustic touch. Hence the birch chuppah was decorated with a mix of greenery to blend seamlessly with the surrounding trees, while accents of large white flowers added an elegant note. Cocktail tables were created from wine barrels with lantern arrangements on top. The dining tent was decorated with chandeliers covered in greenery, long farm tables with garland draping over the sides and rounded arrangements full of white flowers, accented with greenery.
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EVENT PLANNER Ashley Nicole Events FACILITY Crooked Willow Farms DECOR/FLORAL Newberry Brothers CATERING Catering by Design CAKE Yours Truly Cupcake BRIDE’S DRESS Lela Rose BRIDE’S HAIR/MAKEUP Ever Good RENTALS/LINENS/SERVICE WARE/TENTS Event Rents RENTALS/CHAIRS Charming Chairs LIGHTING Amora Group ENTERTAINMENT Aspen String Quartet; Emerald City Band TRANSPORTATION/VALET DDG Classic Limousines LIVE WEDDING PAINTER Jennie Lou Art INVITATIONS Printerette Press PRINTED ITEMS Details Delivered VIDEOGRAPHY Rising Moon Films PHOTOGRAPHY Rachel Havel Photography
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Bollywood Ball
National Jewish Health’s annual Beaux Arts Ball is known for its exceptional entertainment and decor and 2018’s celebration created in conjunction with Imprint Group was no exception. With a Bollywood Ball theme, the gala attracted 1,200 guests and raised $2 million. Guests were treated to a lively Indian bazaar, and entertained by a professional cast of 30 performers from cultural groups around the country who performed a five-act show as part of the evening’s program. The ballroom was transformed with rich lighting, shimmering jewel-toned linens and bright florals in golden vessels. Custom hoop chandeliers made from gold punched lanterns and colorful paper stars were blended with vibrant fabric swags and teardrop chandeliers.
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EVENT PLANNER/INVITATIONS National Jewish Health FACILITY/CATERING/SERVICE WARE Hyatt Regency at Colorado Convention Center DECOR/FLORAL/RENTALS/ PRINTED ITEMS DesignWorks LINENS Chair Covers & Linens, DesignWorks LIGHTING DesignWorks; J&S Audio Visual AUDIO/VIDEO/TECHNICAL J&S Audio Visual ENTERTAINMENT/ MUSIC/DJ Imprint Group VIDEOGRAPHY Josh Gold Photography PHOTOGRAPHY TerraChroma; Susan English; David Ingraham
Memories
Launching in 2019
Simplifying your venue search by connecting you to the Greater Denver Venue Network, a curated network of top venues in the Denver Metro area. Complete one form and GDVN venues that match your criteria will reach out directly to you.
VenuHub.com Greater Denver Venue Network — Established in 2009 —
1stBANK Center
Denver Art Museum
Grant-Humphreys Mansion
MIRUS Gallery
AEG Presents
Denver Athletic Club
Mission Ballroom
Appaloosa Grill
Denver Botanic Gardens
Great Divide Brewing Company
Denver Arts & Venues
Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms
Arrowhead Golf Club Asterisk ATC DEN Gallery & Event Space Balistreri Event Center & Winery Bigsby’s Folly blanc Bluebird Theater Broncos Stadium at Mile High Buell Theatre Butterfly Pavilion Chambers Grant Salon Cherry Cricket Ballpark Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus Clock Tower Events Coohills Copper Leaf Gardens & Events Center CU South Denver
Denver Center for the Performing Arts Denver Museum of Nature and Science Denver Performing Arts Complex Denver Speakeasy Denver Union Station Denver Zoo Directors Room Downtown Aquarium Ellie Caulkins Opera House EXDO Event Center Family Resource Pavilion Event Center Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater Field House Event Venue Fogo de Chão Lone Tree | Denver Forney Museum of Transportation
Hickory & Ash History Colorado Center Hotel Teatro Howl at the Moon
Moss National Western Complex Ogden Theater Palazzo Verdi
Infinity Park
Parker Arts — PACE Center and The Schoolhouse
Ironworks
Sanctuary Golf Course
Kevin Taylor’s at the Opera House
Seawell Ballroom
Kroenke Sports & Entertainment La Rumba Lamar Street Center Larimer Social Live@Jack’s Lucky Strike, FTW Denver Pavilions Madden Museum of Art Masa McNichols Civic Center Building Mila Mile High Station
Sie FilmCenter Skylight Events Skyline Denver South of Colfax Nightlife District Spruce Mountain Ranch Stampede Stanley Market Place Temple Denver — Private Event Space The Alliance Center The Barn at Raccoon Creek The Cable Center
The Curtis Ballroom at The Landmark The Denver Turnverein The Hangar at Stanley The Infinite Monkey Theorem The Kirk of Highland The Lake House at Cherry Creek The Lobby The Nickle The Pinery Country Club The Studio Loft The Summit Thornton The Vehicle Vault The Wright Room Top Golf Centennial | Thornton University of Denver Walker Fine Art Gallery Wellshire Event Center Wings Boeing Blue Sky Aviation Gallery at Centennial Airport
The Club at Pradera
Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
The Collective
Wynkoop Brewing Company
SOMETHING BOLD, SOMETHING NEW.
Imagine taking your first steps together as a married couple, walking out onto a stunning mountain scene, the sun splashing down on you and your smiling loved ones all around. At The Broadmoor, we have everything you need to make the happiest day of your life absolute bliss with endless, luxurious spaces to suit your tastes and a medley of amenities that delight every one of your guests. Celebrate at The Broadmoor, the perfect place for your special day.
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1 LAKE AVENUE, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80906