Columbus Weddings – Spring/Summer 2019 issue

TIPS FOR PLANNING A DESTINATION WEDDING IN COLUMBUS

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Featured Local Weddings

UNIQUE UNITY CEREMONIES

VEGETARIANFRIENDLY ENTRÉES

The New Classics Modern twists on traditional styles

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A COLUMBUS MONTHLY PUBLICATION

Rings e s e h t h t i W P e r f e c t M o m e n t s A r e M a de

Here.

YOU OUR O UR DAILY DA D DAIL AIL LY REMINDER RE R E EMI MIIN M MIN ND DE ER R

THAT THA TH AT T SO S SOMEONE OM ME EO ON NE LO L LOVES OV VE ES Y YOU OU O UW WI WITH IITH TH T H NO NO DO D DOUBT OUB U T

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Contents Spring/Summer 2019

24

THE NEW CLASSICS

Classic gowns get a modern twist

74 ONE OF A KIND Central Ohio venues with a little something extra to offer

132

A SPECTRUM OF STYLE Exploring how a photographer captures your day

THIS LOOK: Model Chris Vaughn in a black Pietro by Ike Behar tuxedo jacket, black ultra-slim pants, ultra-white microfiber wide-spread collar tuxedo shirt, black suspenders, classic black satin bow tie and white tuxedo button covers, all from American Commodore (Rob Hardin photo) ON THE COVER: Model Aubrianna Keown in Romona Keveza No. RK8407 gown, Thomas Knoell Designs “Jupiter” earrings and Boutique de Voile No. 3401 headband, all from White of Dublin, and Uneek ring from Alexanders Jewelers (Tim Johnson photo)

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

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Contents Spring/Summer 2019

i do 14 PROPOSAL 15 THE LIST 16 COLOR TRENDS 18 DOING GOOD 19 ADVICE 22 THIS & THAT

style 24 GOWNS Fit guide, cleaning and preservation

82 142

44 ACCESSORIES Long veils 46 RINGS Stone shapes, metal types 49 BRIDAL PARTY Flattering gowns

55 BEAUTY Melt-proof makeup, anti-updo’s 60 FLOWERS Splurge vs. save, trendy greens

main event

166

68 CEREMONY Unity ceremonies, social media use 74 RECEPTION Honoring heritage, finishing touches, setup/teardown 112 CATERING Vegetarian entrées, statement-making menus 122 REHEARSAL DINNER Private dining rooms 123 CAKES Garden party, trending elements

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images

planning

132 WEDDING-DAY PHOTOGRAPHY Incorporating public art, favorite photos

160 THE SHOW

142 ENGAGEMENT PHOTOGRAPHY Tips for great images 145 VIDEOGRAPHY What you need to know

COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

in every issue

162 CONSULTANTS

10 A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

163 MUSIC

12 ONLINE

168 INVITATIONS

22 NEW & NOTEWORTHY

170 HOTELS

88 RECEPTION GUIDE

171 HONEYMOONS

146 REAL WEDDINGS

174 IN YOUR WORDS

175 ADVERTISER INDEX

PHOTOS: CLOCKWISE FROM TOP, STYLE & STORY; LAMBERT PHOTOGRAPHS; HILLARY FERGUSON PHOTOGRAPHY

51 MENSWEAR Suiting trends, primping services

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editor’s letter

Welcome to

Columbus Weddings

And of course, it wouldn’t be Columbus Weddings without some of our regular resources. We’ve revamped our planning checklist (Page 15) to be more detailed than ever; our fashion feature (Page 24) is full of fabulous frocks; and our Reception Guide (Page 88) has more venues than ever before.

We hope that with so many tools at your disposal, planning stress will be the stuff of nightmares, not reality.

Happy planning!

Emma Frankart Henterly, Editor

PHOTO: TIM JOHNSON

Every six months, as we reach the end of another production cycle for the magazine, I find myself having flashbacks to planning my own wedding in 2015. There are a lot of similarities: waking up in a panic at 3 a.m. because I’ve forgotten something, coming up with backup plans on the spot and the seemingly endless to-do list.

The similarities between this magazine’s deadline and my wedding day aren’t all negative. I also get to relive the rush when months of planning come to fruition and the joy of seeing something I love—whether that’s my relationship or this magazine—thrive. Yes, the process is stressful, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.

Maybe that’s why I find myself drawn to others’ weddings. I can often be found around the office, gossiping with engaged coworkers about which vendors they’re considering for their own celebrations. The same goes for my friend group—I can’t count the number of times I’ve been called on by apologetic friends looking to tap into my knowledge base. Those apologies really aren’t necessary, though. If you’re engaged and agonizing over font options or chair sash colors, I’m your girl.

The minutiae of wedding planning aren’t for everyone, though, which is why we work hard to include both the big picture and the small details in each issue of Columbus Weddings.

From current bridal hairstyles (Page 55) to tips for finding the perfect photographer (Page 132), we aim to be the only resource you need for getting married in Central Ohio.

We also had the opportunity to chat with Monte Durham, co-star of TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta and celebrity guest at the Columbus Weddings Show in January, about trends to look forward to in 2019. He has much to say; you can find some of his advice and details about the Show on Page 160.

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

COLUMBUSMONTHLY.COM PRESIDENT Bradley M. Harmon PUBLISHER/GENERAL MANAGER Ray Paprocki ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER/ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Rheta Gallagher

EDITORIAL COLUMBUS WEDDINGS EDITOR Emma Frankart Henterly COLUMBUS MONTHLY INTERIM EDITOR Sherry Beck Paprocki CONTRIBUTORS Katie Annarino, Abbey Anspach, Nancy Byron, Chelsea Castle, Melissa Kossler Dutton, Jillian Span Hofbauer, Sam Kayuha, Rylan Lee, Heather Lofy, Abernathy Miller-Rinehart, Brooke Preston, Jessica Salerno, Ruth Sternberg, Peter Tonguette, Lillian van Wyngaarden, Sara Wilson INTERN Rylan Lee

DESIGN & PRODUCTION PRODUCTION/DESIGN DIRECTOR Craig Rusnak ART DIRECTOR Alyse Pasternak

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EDITOR Erin Edwards ASSISTANT DIGITAL EDITOR Brittany Moseley

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PHOTO EDITOR Tim Johnson ASSOCIATE PHOTO EDITOR Rob Hardin

ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Holly Gallucci ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Michelle Crossman, Kyle Nussbaum, Jackie Vosler SALES ASSISTANT Lauren Transue

MARKETING MARKETING MANAGER Lauren Reinhard

ADMINISTRATION ADMINISTRATIVE & FINANCIAL ANALYST Ryan Koenig LETTERS: letters@columbusweddingsmag.com PRESS RELEASES: pressreleases@columbusweddingsmag.com ADVERTISING: advertise@columbusweddingsmag.com SUBSCRIPTIONS/CUSTOMER SERVICE circsupport@dispatch.com Toll Free: 877-688-8009 EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING OFFICES 62 E. Broad St. P.O.Box 1289 Columbus, OH 43216 614-888-4567

VOLUME 18 / NUMBER 1 Columbus Weddings (ISSN 2333-407X), a Columbus Monthly publication, is published semi-annually by GateHouse Media, LLC. All contents of this magazine are copyrighted © 2019, all rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without written permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited materials.

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online

WANT MORE WEDDINGS? Check us out online at columbusweddingsmag.com. There you’ll find an expanded Reception Guide database to help you pick the best venue, web-exclusive content that we couldn’t squeeze into the issue and our Bustled blog, which gets regular updates with real, local weddings, styled photo shoots, planning tips and more.

Insta-Stars

We feel your love! Here are some of our top Instagram posts since the last issue. Follow us @cbusweddings for daily #weddinginspo and more.

Don’t forget to follow our social channels, too! We’re on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. columbusweddingsmag

@cbusweddings

@cbusweddings

cbusweddings

It’s no surprise this regram from @allisonhopkinsphotography was our most-liked post. Just look at that precious Frenchie face!

Behind the Scenes Can’t get enough of our fashion photos on Page 24? Neither could we.

Here’s a peek at what you didn’t see during our shoot in October. For more images of the gowns in our feature (plus several extra looks not seen in print), head to cbuswedmag.com/Gowns.

Readers, we want to get to know you better. Take our short survey at cbuswedmag.com/Survey and you’ll be entered to win tickets to the Columbus Weddings Boutique Show of your choice in 2019. We’ll give away a pair of tickets to 10 lucky winners!

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

Share Your Wedding We're now accepting photo submissions! Our next issue will include a section called Dream Day by Diamonds Direct that will feature readers' wedding photos. Submit yours at cbuswedmag.com/DreamDay.

You loved the romance of this image, courtesy bride Victoria HuttaMagness, that we shared to promote a story about rehearsal dinners.

PHOTO: LEFT, TIM JOHNSON

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

The Estate at New Albany shared this sweet @leighelizabethphotography shot when they did an Insta-takeover back in July.

PHOTO: STYLE & STORY

i do

PROPOSAL 14 • THE LIST 15 • COLOR TRENDS 16 DOING GOOD 18 • ADVICE 19 • THIS & THAT 22 SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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i do proposal

School-day Surprise A groom proposes with the help of 22 fourth-graders.

BY JILLIAN SPAN HOFBAUER

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

TOP, Chadwick Kulchar proposes to Kelly Infield in her classroom; BOTTOM, Chadwick and Kelly Kulchar on their wedding day

was there, they were really excited to be a part of the moment. Shortly after, Kelly, Sloat and another co-worker made their way toward the classroom.

“When we reached my classroom door, I looked in the window and I couldn’t see anyone other than my assistant principal, and I also noticed how spotless the classroom was,” Kelly recalls. “I opened the door so pleased to hear a quiet, calm class and see a clean classroom,” she says, soon realizing the students were lined up facing her with letters. As she began to read the message, she spotted Chadwick. Walking toward her, he dropped to one knee and asked, “Kelly, will you marry me?” as the students squealed

with excitement and shouted, “Say yes!”

Completely shocked and overwhelmed with joy, Kelly nodded her head yes, replying “Thank you,” a sweet response that has now become a running joke in the family.

“I never would have imagined that Chad would propose to me at school,” Kelly says.

“I love my students, and they are always a huge part of my life. It was a wonderful representation of love and happiness for these fourth-graders to experience.”

The proposal was a wonderful start to an amazing wedding journey that culminated seven months later, on July 13, say the Kulchars. “It was an incredibly special moment for everyone involved,” Kelly adds.

PHOTOS: TOP, COURTESY KELLY KULCHAR; BOTTOM, FORGET ME KNOT PHOTOGRAPHY

When Chadwick Kulchar decided he wanted to share his life with then-girlfriend Kelly Infield, popping the big question was never a matter of uncertainty—it was more about finding the perfect way.

The couple had met a few years prior through mutual friends at a Columbus Blue Jackets watch party and were surprised to discover that they had both graduated from the same high school only one year apart. A first date, and many others, followed, and before they knew it they had fallen in love, headed toward a future together.

“I wanted to show Kelly how much I love her and how excited I was to spend the rest of my life with her,” Chadwick says of making the proposal memorable. Knowing how much Kelly—now Kelly Kulchar—loves her job as a fourth-grade teacher at Hilliard Horizon Elementary School, he decided to include her students in the surprise, enlisting the help of principal Hilary Sloat to stage the event.

Through nearly four weeks of planning, which involved disguised texts and emails with Sloat and printing and laminating individual letters to spell “Will you marry me?

Say yes!” for the children to hold, the proposal was set to take place in Kelly’s classroom following a student performance the entire school was attending in the gym. On the big day, Chadwick couldn’t wait to see Kelly’s reaction.

“Once the performance … ended, the principal pulled Kelly to the side for a quick, impromptu ‘meeting’ and had the assistant principal take her students to her classroom,” Chadwick explains. He was already there, ready and waiting; he and a couple of staff members worked with the kids to tidy the classroom, then line up the students in two rows with the letters.

“They were listening to me so well but seemed a little confused, since they had never met me before,” says Chadwick, adding that once the students realized why he

the list i do

Your No-Fail Wedding Timeline Fiancé: Check. Now it’s all about the attire, the flowers, the DJ and so much more. Take a deep breath and use this guide to prepare for your big day.

13+ months

7 months

¨ Announce your engagement in person or by phone to closest relatives and friends, then via social media. ¨ Arrange for your families to meet if they haven’t already. ¨ Decide on your overall theme and other big details, like time of year and general location. ¨ Create a Pinterest board (or sift through your existing pins). ¨ Begin researching vendors that book far in advance, like venues and photographers.

¨ Finalize your guest list and confirm mailing addresses. ¨ Order save-the-dates. ¨ Research ceremony traditions, personal elements, etc.

12 months ¨ Make a rough guest list. ¨ Set a date. ¨ Set your budget and determine who’s paying for what. ¨ Book your venue(s). ¨ Choose your bridal party.

11 months ¨ Book your photographer. ¨ Interview wedding planners and hire one, if using. ¨ Research wedding gowns, bridesmaid gowns and menswear. ¨ Research officiants and caterers. ¨ Create a wedding website.

10 months ¨ Decide on color palette. ¨ Make gown shopping appointments. ¨ Book officiant and caterer, if not included with your venue. ¨ Research remaining vendors: cakes, flowers, stationery, music, rentals, transportation, hotels, hair stylists and makeup artists.

9 months

PHOTOS: TIM JOHNSON

¨ Start meeting with and booking remaining vendors. ¨ Book appointments for bridesmaid gown shopping. ¨ Reserve hotel blocks.

6 months ¨ Send save-the-dates. ¨ If your honeymoon is international, book it and update your passports. ¨ Buy bridal accessories such as shoes, undergarments, jewelry, veil, etc. ¨ Reserve hotel room for wedding night and the night before.

5 months ¨ Make sure bridesmaid dresses are ordered. ¨ Book menswear fittings. ¨ Choose flower girl/ring bearer attire as needed. ¨ Give bridal shower guest list and addresses to the hostess. ¨ Finalize invite design and order.

Get extra outer envelopes to allow for addressing mistakes! ¨ Research rehearsal dinner and day-after brunch locations.

4 months ¨ Give guest list to calligrapher. ¨ Meet with hair/makeup pros. ¨ Create play/do not play lists and decide on “special” songs like entrances, first dance, etc. ¨ Schedule dance lessons. ¨ Order wedding bands. ¨ Make sure the guys have completed their fittings. ¨ Make sure bridesmaid dress alterations are scheduled. ¨ Gather info for programs, menus and other ancillary stationery.

Vegetarian entrées, Page 112

3 months

3 weeks

¨ Book your honeymoon if traveling within the U.S. ¨ Schedule and complete your first dress fitting with your seamstress. ¨ Book rehearsal and dinner. ¨ Book day-after brunch. ¨ Order rehearsal invites. ¨ Order or make favors. ¨ Buy a guest book. ¨ Request time off work. ¨ Finalize flower arrangements. ¨ Send invitaitons to out-of-country guests. ¨ Attend your bridal shower.

¨ Use confirmed RSVPs to start determining seating chart. ¨ Send song lists to your DJ or band. ¨ Send a shot list to your photographer. ¨ Create a schedule for the day with your planner or photographer. ¨ Assemble guest bags for the hotel.

2 months ¨ Send shower thank-you notes. ¨ Send invitations to out-of-town guests. ¨ Schedule catering tasting. ¨ Schedule hair and makeup trials. ¨ Buy gifts for your bridal party, parents, etc.

6 weeks ¨ Send invitations to local guests. ¨ Order ancillary stationery (programs, menus, etc.). ¨ Start writing vows. ¨ Review ceremony with officiant. ¨ Start breaking in your shoes.

4 weeks ¨ Pick up wedding bands. ¨ Attend your bachelor and bachelorette parties. ¨ Send rehearsal invites. ¨ Pick up your marriage license.

8 months ¨ Order your gown. ¨ Create a registry. ¨ Take engagement photos.

Things We Love, Page 22

2 weeks ¨ Final guest count to caterer. ¨ Finalize seating chart. ¨ Give calligrapher information for place cards, or DIY them. ¨ Touch up your haircut/color. ¨ Give copies of songs or readings to participants. ¨ Final dress fitting.

1 week ¨ Make a day-of emergency kit.

(Find tips on what to include at cbuswedmag.com/Kit.) ¨ Pick up gown from seamstress. ¨ Make sure menswear is picked up. ¨ Give bridal party and vendors the day-of timeline and contact list. ¨ Confirm day-of details with all vendors. ¨ Pack for the honeymoon. ¨ Arrange for someone to take your gown to the cleaner, return the groom’s menswear and drop gifts off at your house if you’re leaving for your honeymoon immediately after the wedding.

Day before ¨ Drop off stationery, ceremony pieces and favors at venue(s). ¨ Drop off guest bags at hotel. ¨ Organize tip envelopes and assign someone to give them out at the reception. ¨ Attend the rehearsal and dinner. ¨ Give attendants and parents gifts at rehearsal dinner.

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i do color trends PANTONE 17-1564 Fiesta

PANTONE 19-1862 Jester Red

PANTONE 15-1264 Turmeric

PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral

PANTONE 18-2045 Pink Peacock

PANTONE 17-0542 Pepper Stem

PANTONE 13-0850 Aspen Gold

PANTONE 19-4150 Princess Blue

PANTONE 18-1031 Toffee

PANTONE 15-0960 Mango Mojito

PANTONE 18-0416 Terrarium Moss

PANTONE 14-2808 Sweet Lilac FIRST ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: DERK’S WORKS PHOTOGRAPHY, STYLE & STORY (2); SECOND ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: NICOLE DIXON PHOTOGRAPHIC, STYLE & STORY; THIRD ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: DERK’S WORKS PHOTOGRAPHY (2), SANCHEZ STUDIO; FOURTH ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: SANCHEZ STUDIO, DERK’S WORKS PHOTOGRAPHY; FIFTH ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: BRETT LOVES ELLE PHOTOGRAPHY, DERK’S WORKS PHOTOGRAPHY (2); SIXTH ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: FORGET ME KNOT PHOTOGRAPHY, HILLARY FERGUSON PHOTOGRAPHY, AIMEE THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

Nice to Meet Hue

Twice a year, the Pantone Color Institute—the world’s authority on color trends—releases a palette of colors it predicts will be popular.

Pantone describes its spring/summer 2019 roundup as containing “lively hues supported by an array of reliable classics,” with shades that span the rainbow. Warm oranges, reds, yellows and pinks—including Fiesta, Jester Red, Turmeric, Living Coral, Pink Peacock, Aspen Gold and Mango Mojito—are offset by the bright Princess Blue and Pepper Stern.

Sweet Lilac offers a softer, more romantic vibe, while the understated Toffee and Terrarium Moss balance everything out with neutral vibes. —Emma Frankart Henterly

FIRST ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: DERK’S WORKS PHOTOGRAPHY, ADDVISION, BRETT LOVES ELLE PHOTOGRAPHY; SECOND ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: BRETT LOVES ELLE PHOTOGRAPHY, FORGET ME KNOT PHOTOGRAPHY; THIRD ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: NICOLE DIXON PHOTOGRAPHIC, SANCHEZ STUDIO; FOURTH ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: ADDVISION, BRETT LOVES ELLE PHOTOGRAPHY, HILLARY FERGUSON PHOTOGRAPHY; FIFTH ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: BRETT LOVES ELLE PHOTOGRAPHY, SANCHEZ STUDIO; SIXTH ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: TOGETHER WE CLICK, AIMEE THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY, HILLARY FERGUSON PHOTOGRAPHY

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i do doing good

Can a Wedding Favor Change the World?

Replacing tchotchkes and edibles with donations and outreach While it’s always fun for wedding guests to find a custom iced cookie or tin of mints neatly wrapped beside their reception place card, some Central Ohio couples are swapping traditional trinkets for a gesture that generates a longer-lasting impact. For instance, philanthropically minded pairs may opt to make a donation to a good cause of their choice, in honor of their wedding guests (either individually or collectively).

Before Kelly and Chadwick Kulchar were married on July 13 at Vue Columbus, they considered a number of alternatives to traditional wedding favors. “We tossed around different items we could have at all the seats for the guests, but we wanted it to be even more meaningful than a tangible gift,” Chadwick explains. “Kelly’s mom, Laura, came up with the idea to donate the money to a charity, and we immediately fell in love with the idea.”

From there, the couple landed on the perfect recipient for the donation: a local charity called A Touch of Grace. Created

by the bride’s cousin Grace Pflaum at the age of 10 (along with her parents), the nonprofit organization assembles and delivers care packages to the homeless across the Greater Columbus area each month.

“We were a little nervous and unsure how some people would react to this idea, but we knew this is what we wanted to do,” Kelly says. “When asking immediate family members how they would feel about the idea, we got the confirmation that we needed to follow our passion for helping others.”

On the actual day, they were relieved to find that their guests were fully supportive and delighted by their decision. “Everyone seemed so touched and happily surprised when they heard where the favor money had gone. Our guests kept commenting on what an amazing young woman Grace is and how impressive it is that she has such a drive to help others,” Kelly recalls.

More importantly, the Kulchar wedding’s monetary donation helped fund one of A Touch of Grace’s monthly outings, which

LEFT TOP AND BOTTOM, Katelyn and Bora Tucture made a donation to the American Cancer Association to support pancreatic cancer research in lieu of a favor (Derk’s Works Photography); RIGHT, Kelly and Chadwick Kulchar donated to a charity started by a family member (Forget Me Knot Photography).

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

BY BROOKE PRESTON connected hundreds of local homeless individuals with food, clothing and essentials.

If their generous example inspires you to consider a philanthropic alternative to traditional wedding favors, here are a few simple tips to help execute the gesture with elegance: • Choose a cause close to your heart.

Make sure the nonprofit is legitimate and reputable before committing to a donation.

• Donations can be made in the names of each individual guest or as one lump sum. For the latter, preferred wording for the donation dedication is “in honor of your attendance on our wedding day.”

• To help the gift feel more tangible and meaningful to guests, consider presenting them with personalized favor cards explaining which organization you chose, why you chose it and how the donation will make an impact. Include a web address where guests can visit later to learn more about the organization and its mission.

advice i do

Lessons Learned Real couples share tips, tricks and what they wish they’d known before their own weddings. Find even more advice from other couples featured in this issue each Thursday on our blog at cbuswedmag.com/Bustled.

Jaime and David Scott

Wed on July 1, 2017, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church What are you happy you spent money on?

David: The photographer.

Jaime: The venue, our photographer and the wedding video for sure!

What do you think you could have done without?

D: Favors on the table.

J: I was obsessed with table decorations!

How flowers looked, what would go on the head table, etc. Honestly, no one remembers, and I can’t even tell you what was there!

What do you wish you’d known before you started planning?

D: How amazing my mother-in-law is. She went above and beyond with helping in the planning process.

J: That it is only one day. All of this planning goes into one day, and you can’t stress over it or worry about every little thing, because what matters is the life after the “I do’s.”

PHOTO: HILLARY FERGUSON PHOTOGRAPHY

What was your biggest surprise when planning your wedding?

J: All the little details you have to look for.

From place cards to gifts for our guests staying at the hotel ... everything adds up, too!

Did you experience any wedding-day snafus?

D: The power went out in the church, and we made the best of the situation using candles.

J: The church ended up looking beautiful with candles lighting the aisle, but I wouldn’t say I handled it with grace the minute I found out. … The power came back on in the middle of the Mass and so did the air conditioning, thank goodness!

Do you have any general advice for couples currently planning their weddings?

D: Plan well ahead, stay within your means and listen to the bride.

J: Don’t over-stress. Nothing will go 100 percent perfectly on your wedding day. Try to

enjoy every moment. You’ll feel like you have to be in a million places at once, which you kind of do, but don’t forget the reason for your wedding day is all about your love. It sounds cheesy, but if you get lost in the planning you can lose sight of what’s important.

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i do advice

Shelby and Nicklaus Jurden Wed on March 3, 2018, at The Athletic Club of Columbus If you could do anything about your wedding differently, what would you change?

Shelby: Verify everything in writing. That way if someone quits, the thing you had set up does not get messed up.

Nicklaus: Extend the reception by 30 minutes.

There were quite a few people I was unable to really speak with.

What are you happy you spent money on?

S: I was happy we spent a lot of money on our venue and photographer. There is a lot you miss on your wedding day, and having the photographer makes you feel like you saw everything.

What do you think you could have done without?

N: We went all-out on the desserts and probably could have limited it to just a few options, instead of the 12-plus options we had.

What was your biggest surprise when planning your wedding?

S: All of the random expenses and small details. Make your budget for miscellaneous things [larger than] you would think.

Did you experience any wedding-day snafus?

N: One of my groomsmen fell in the mud, but with some water and a lot of helping hands we got him cleaned up, and no one noticed.

Any dress-shopping advice?

S: Go with people you trust and with an open mind. I did not want a tight dress and ended up with one.

What about menswear?

N: Custom-made suits are definitely the way

to go. Sure, you can rent a tux and it will fit OK—but for a couple hundred more, you can get a suit that fits you perfectly and can be worn after as well.

Do you have any general advice for couples currently planning their weddings?

S: Stick to your budget and plan! Also, Amazon’s two-day shipping will be your best friend the month before your wedding.

N: Don’t forget to incorporate tips when you are initially planning your budget; they increase your total cost pretty significantly. I separated the tips into envelopes the day of and put my best man in charge of distributing them on our behalf.

That leads me to my next tip, which is to use your groomsmen to take care of little things so you can enjoy the day. The groomsmen typically spend half the day drinking and relaxing while the women are getting their hair and makeup done. My groomsmen helped me coordinate with our different vendors (florist, baker, photographer, etc.) throughout the day.

PHOTO: ADDVISION

What do you wish you’d known before you started planning?

S: How much a wedding was! We paid for our wedding out of pocket, and all the small

stuff really adds up. Stick to your budget, and plan as much as possible.

N: I wish I would have known how hard it is to design invitations. Seriously, it took us about six attempts before we were able to find one we actually liked, which equates to about three weeks of design time.

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

Annie and Eaman Hai Wed on Oct. 14, 2017, at The Vault

PHOTO: DERK’S WORKS PHOTOGRAPHY

If you could do anything about your wedding differently, what would you change?

Annie: Being better about the timing for hair and makeup. I was having fun just hanging out with my girls and family, and I didn’t get in to the chair until way too late! The boys were there to pick us up, and I was just getting my dress on. I wish I had more time to perfect my hair and makeup and enjoy some time getting comfortable in my dress before having to run out the door!

Eaman: Might have changed the order of toasts/dances. I realized after that the longer you wait for toasts, the more pressure it puts on them!

What are you happy you spent money on?

A: Our amazing photographer, wedding planner and party bus.

E: A great dress for my wife!

What do you think you could have done without?

A: Several of the favors were left behind and not necessary, but they weren’t expensive items.

E: The dessert station.

What do you wish you’d known before you started planning?

A: Budget planning is necessary, albeit uncomfortable with so many involved. I would plan a budget down to the dollar next time.

E: How quickly the day flies by and to take more time to enjoy the moments and dancing.

What was your biggest surprise when planning your wedding?

A: It is a lot more time and effort than one would ever think. I became much more comfortable with letting others take on tasks when I thought I’d want my hands in everything.

Did you get into any silly arguments?

E: People to invite—more specifically, the number of people. I have a big family and a lot of friends. At the end of the day, we realized that everyone who is being invited will be both of our families and friends, and that helped.

Any dress-shopping advice?

A: Take whomever you want dress shopping.

Everyone will have opinions about who should go, or you may feel obligated to take certain family members or friends. Pick who you want, not what everyone else wants.

My husband helped me pick my dress, and I couldn’t have been happier having him there!

Do you have any general advice for couples currently planning their weddings?

A: Plan your budget and stick to it—it will save you a lot of stress. If you lead busy lives, I would recommend a wedding planner. They take so much off your plate and do whatever you ask with a smile. The day runs smoothly and stress-free because all you worry about is having a great time; they take care of everything else.

E: Don’t make too big of a deal out of all the small details. At the end of the day, it is just about you and your partner.

Do you have any general marriage advice, as a newlywed?

E: Always prioritize each other first, and at the foundation of any relationship there has to be trust.

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i do this & that

Things We Love Here’s a peek at current favorites from the Columbus Weddings staff.

ENGAGED MUG This cheeky mug has had us cracking up since we featured it on our blog back in August. It’s made locally by Jes McGinley, who sells it and other adorable, customizable illustrated items via her Etsy shop, JesMarried.

ESSIE GEL COUTURE NAIL POLISH Available in nearly 100 longlasting colors, this is a polish that just won’t quit. The twostep system consists of a color and a clear top coat. It wore on one tester for more than a week—longer than a standard gel manicure lasts for her!

COLORED DIAMONDS White diamonds will always be a staple in the bridal industry, but we’re loving the colored options available now as well. From pink to yellow to purple to green, the options are endless. Pictured are a 3ct black diamond with 0.4ctw of white diamonds, all set in 18k white gold ($3,600 from Worthington Jewelers) and a 1.6ct pear-shaped brown diamond with 0.3ctw of white diamonds set in 18k rose gold (Fana, $7,900 from Alexanders Jewelers).

New & Noteworthy Charting changes in Central Ohio Engaged couples will have three entirely new options for event venues. The National Veterans Memorial and Museum, which opened Downtown in October, will soon be available for weddings. Swan Lake Event Center opens in Powell this spring and is available for events starting April 1. Magnolia Hill Farm, a modern farmhouse sitting atop a 10-acre working flower farm in Centerburg, is also set to open in 2019.

The venue’s Veranda and Magnolia rooms each fit 225 people, and the courtyard can accommodate a cocktail hour or ceremony, as well.

National Veterans Memorial and Museum, 300 W. Broad St., Columbus, 614-362-2800, nationalvmm.org; Swan Lake Event Center, 5900 Liberty Rd., Powell, 740-833-6024, swanlakeeventcenter.com; Magnolia Hill Farm, 6665 Johnsville Rd., Centerburg, 740480-1885, magnoliahill-farm.com Additionally, some local event spaces are getting a face-lift. Via Vecchia will reopen April 1 in a new space just south of German Village in the new business park, The Fort. Highlights include a mezzanine

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level that overlooks the dance floor and a 14,000-square-foot, walled courtyard. Overall, the space will have an industrial glam aesthetic, according to owner Michael Elmer.

2108 S. High St., Columbus, 614-893-5455, viavecchiawinery.com The Golf Club at Little Turtle opened its renovated and remodeled Hawthorne Ballroom to the public in June. The new indoor-outdoor space combines a ballroom with a private patio overlooking a lake. The ballroom—which includes a 40-foot limestone fireplace and rustic wooden beams—seats up to 325, and the patio nearly doubles the event space.

5400 Little Turtle Way, Westerville, 614-6252934, littleturtlegolf.com

Sadly, these new venue additions also coincide with the closing of two bridal stores; Gabriele European Bridal in Westerville closed in early 2018, and Ivy Bridal in Dublin closed a little later, in July.

But in other news on the Columbus bridal fashion scene, Joan Madison of Joan’s Bridal Couture displayed her Joan Bridal Fall 2019 collection at New York Bridal Fashion Week last October, in addition to her Queendom collection at New York Fashion Week’s Emerging Designer showcase in September. She sells her own designs, as well as labels like Jasmine Bridal, in her Reynoldsburg shop.

7382 E. Main St., Reynoldsburg, 614-8569848, joansbridalcouture.com

PHOTOS: CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT, COURTESY JES MCGINLEY; ROB HARDIN; TIM JOHNSON; STEPHANIE KASE PHOTOGRAPHY; TIM JOHNSON

CAKE POPS Not just any cake pops, though.

These gorgeously decorated and delicious two-bite wedding cakes from Sadie Baby Sweets have been a hit around the office—even among those who don’t typically drool over cake.

PHOTO: HILLARY FERGUSON PHOTOGRAPHY

style

GOWNS 24 • ACCESSORIES 44 • RINGS 46 • BRIDAL PARTY 49 MENSWEAR 51 • BEAUTY 55 • FLOWERS 60 SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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style gowns

COMING UP ROSES This classic A-line ballgown features a soft floral print on the skirt. Sassi Holford “Amelia” gown, Thomas Knoell Designs “Barcelona” earrings, Simon G ring; prices available on request 24

COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

New Classics There’s a reason classic silhouettes like the A-line ballgown and the fit-and-flare are mainstays.

They tend to be flattering for a wide variety of women, and designers make them available in a seemingly endless array of fabrics, embellishments and colors. But “classic” and “modern” are not mutually exclusive, as White of Dublin proved during our shoot at The Athletic Club of Columbus.

Find even more looks, plus outtakes from the following pages, at cbuswedmag.com/Gowns.

STORY BY EMMA FRANKART HENTERLY PHOTOS BY TIM JOHNSON

STYLING: Heather DiMasi and Tori Mastropole, White of Dublin | HAIR AND MAKEUP: Marnie Morley and Riyan Mack, PENZONE Salons + Spas MODEL: Aubrianna Keown, Found Models | VENUE: The Athletic Club of Columbus | RINGS: Alexanders Jewelers SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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style gowns

CINDERELLA STYLE A dramatic, deep V-neck, blue hue and 3D floral embellishments update this ballgown. Nicole No. NIAB18092 gown in light blue, Thomas Knoell Designs “Barcelona” earrings, Boutique de Voile “Eternity” headband; prices available on request 26

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style gowns

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LOOKING SHARP Featuring a detachable overskirt, this sheath dress with an asymmetrical neckline is sure to stun. Romona Keveza No. RK7403 gown, No. RK5400SKT overskirt and No. RK5402BN belt; Thomas Knoell Designs “Jupiter” earrings; Uneek ring; prices available on request

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style gowns

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

HIDDEN DELIGHT The ruched taffeta suede bodice of this pale gray fit-and-flare gown splits to reveal layers of tulle underneath. Ian Stuart “Deneuve” gown in Papyrus, Ariel Jennifer Taub “Glamour” veil and “Ever After” clutch, Thomas Knoell Designs “Barcelona” earrings, Uneek ring; prices available on request SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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style gowns

BEADED BEAUTY A daring, plunging neckline and back detail give this fit-and-flare dress edge; beaded net on the skirt adds drama. Galia Lahav “Summer Bella” gown, Thomas Knoell Designs “Monroe” earrings, Simon G ring; prices available on request 32

COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

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style gowns

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PERFECT 10 This fit-and-flare gown features a bohemian design in its guipure lace. Pronovias “Magnolia” gown, Thomas Knoell Designs “Kylie” earrings, Simon G ring set; prices available on request

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style gowns

SHEER DELIGHT The high illusion neck is intriguing enough, but the sheer overlay on this gown conceals an underskirt that hits at mid-thigh.

Romona Keveza No. RK8407 gown, Thomas Knoell Designs “Jupiter” earrings, Boutique de Voile No. 3401 headband; prices available on request 36

COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

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style gowns

Perfect Fit Finding your dream wedding gown can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.

BY EMMA FRANKART HENTERLY Shopping for a wedding gown is often one of the most anticipated—and simultaneously most dread-inducing—tasks on a bride’s wedding checklist. On one hand, it’s an iconic moment that’s filled with magic and excitement. But on the other hand, it certainly can be stressful, especially when you factor in prices, strange sizing conventions, unfamiliar silhouette styles and more.

Jaimie Rodger chose a flattering, flowy A-line gown for her wedding day.

(Sanchez Studio)

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

For many brides, shopping for a wedding gown starts at home. Whether you’re filling your Pinterest board, clipping pages from magazines or Googling styles to figure out your body shape, you should plan to do a little homework before your appointment.

“Take your time to research different styles and silhouettes that may look good on your body shape,” says Heather DiMasi, owner of White of Dublin. “Then you can walk in with confidence and say, ‘Hey, I think I might like to try some of these looks.’”

At the same time, she adds, it’s important to trust your consultant, who’s been trained to assess a woman’s shape—as well as her personality and overall wedding aesthetic— in order to pair her with her best matches.

“It’s our job to educate them” on what will work best, DiMasi explains.

Some styling conventions still hold true; a halter neckline probably won’t work for a woman with broad shoulders, and a bride with a square or apple silhouette should steer clear of super-fitted sheath dresses.

But Twirl boutique owner Laura Wingfield thinks that many hard-and-fast silhouette rules are ready to be retired.

“Sometimes it’s about the magic of the dress,” she says. “It just has all the right [elements]. It fits a woman’s body really well.”

Jaimie Rodger had a six-month engagement, so she had to fast-track her shopping process.

(Most boutiques recommend ordering a gown at least eight months before your wedding, to allow time for shipping and alterations.)

“I just went into the whole experience knowing my body type and knowing what kind of dress I wanted,” she says, which was fortunate—she was able to find her dream gown during one excursion to David’s Bridal. “I knew I didn’t want anything strapless, and I wanted something that was low-cut,” she says, citing concerns about having a smaller bust. Rodger also wanted to avoid anything too form-fitting, so she could eat without worrying about the dreaded food-baby after.

“I wanted something that was not going to ever make me feel self-conscious about my body type,” she says. And the final requirement: A nontraditional color. It seems like a tall order, but she quickly found the perfect gown—a Galina Signature A-line with a plunging V-neck and organza skirt.

It was available in ivory, but she opted for a blush hue called rose water.

But what if you don’t have such a detailed vision for your wedding gown?

“My best advice is to try on each different style to narrow it down,” says Maria Vietmeier, store manager at Henri's Bridal.

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style gowns

LEFT, Erin Mitchell didn’t want a strapless ballgown, until she tried on one that looked amazing on her (Forget Me Knot Photography); RIGHT, A Henri's Bridal consultant helped Katie Simmons decide on a fluffy mermaid gown (Hillary Ferguson Photography).

A STYLE FOR EVERY SHAPE

Hard-and-fast rules about wearing only certain silhouettes based on your body shape can go out the window, says Twirl owner Laura Wingfield.

But if you’re completely clueless about what might work for you, these general guidelines from Wingfield, Henri's Bridal store manager Maria Vietmeier and White of Dublin owner Heather DiMasi are a good place to start.

If you have…

Try on…

And avoid…

Here’s why

A straight figure

A sheath or mermaid silhouette

Ballgowns

A ballgown might overwhelm what natural curves you do have, while a mermaid silhouette enhances them. A sheath gown will accentuate a willowy figure, especially if you’re tall.

A pear silhouette

Dropped waists and fitand-flare silhouettes like trumpet and mermaid

Sheath gowns

If your body is bootylicious, rock it in a mermaid that will show off every beautiful curve! A sheath will downplay those looks and could cause awkward bunching.

An apple silhouette

Something with built-in structure

Fit-and-flare and sheath gowns

If your bust, middle and hips are roughly the same dimensions, a structured gown with built-in boning will accentuate your waist, while super-fitted styles will draw attention to it in an undesirable way.

Lots of curves

An A-line, fit-and-flare or Sheath gowns ballgown with structure

Your individual proportions will dictate your best silhouette, but built-in boning is a must to accentuate your best curves and downplay areas you might be self-conscious about.

Broad shoulders

Something strapless

Halter necklines and wide straps

Again, the rest of your proportions will dictate your silhouette, but your neckline should work to elongate your décolletage or break up your shoulders—and halters just don’t do that.

A petite stature

An A-line or empire waistline

Fit-and-flare silhouettes and dropped waists

You’ll likely have to hem your gown, and hemming a trumpet or mermaid silhouette will throw off its proportions. A dropped waist may make your legs look shorter, while an empire waistline will give you length.

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That was precisely what Katie Simmons did when she ventured to Henri’s to shop.

One of Simmons’ main concerns was her height; at 6 feet tall, she was worried about having to add length to a hem, which can be complicated and expensive. Beyond that, she wasn’t particularly picky.

“I thought I wanted a princess ballgown; that’s what I’ve always imagined, even as a little girl I imagined wearing a poofy ballgown,” Simmons says. “The other thing was, as far as fit, I have love handles, so I wanted something that wasn’t as tight. …

But I was open to anything, you know; I wanted to try everything on.”

And that openness proved beneficial. When her consultant at Henri's Bridal suggested she try on a mermaid-style gown to show off her height, Simmons was game. “I was like, ‘Oh, I actually love this,’ ” she recalls.

DiMasi, Wingfield and Vietmeier all encourage brides to have a similar mentality. “Trust your consultant, because that’s really why they’re there,” DiMasi says. “They’re going to try their best to incorporate the things that you like in a dress into what looks great on you.”

Above all, a dress that fits well and is suited to your personality and wedding vision has to be comfortable. After all, you won’t look your best if you’re uncomfortable.

“We hear ‘comfort’ over and over and over again,” says Wingfield. “Even a fit-and-flare or a ballgown can be comfortable, just depending on the designer and what elements are on it.”

No one knows that better than Erin Mitchell. After a disappointing experience at Elegant Bride (which has since closed), Mitchell headed to Wendy’s Bridal with her mom, sister and friend.

“I told my mom I did not want a strapless gown and I did not want a poofy gown,” she says, “and that’s literally what I got.”

Mitchell was concerned that a strapless gown wouldn’t give her the support she needed in the bust, and she favored a sleeker look for the gown overall. When her consultant brought over the gown that Mitchell eventually purchased, she initially resisted.

“I’m super glad that she was like, ‘Please just try this on,’ because I absolutely loved it,” she says. “If it weren’t for her, I probably wouldn’t have even tried on a poofy dress.”

The built-in boning of the gown gave Mitchell enough structure and support to eschew straps altogether, and the skirt’s mixture of organza and crepe organza kept the gown light and airy. She was so comfortable, in fact, that a wedding guest’s inside joke—a challenge to do The Worm—didn’t intimidate her.

“I did it! That’s how comfortable it was,” she says.

Your Dress is Here.

Your appointment is waiting.

Experience TWIRL Book Your Appointment Today!

Bridal & Prom Boutique 101 N. DETROIT ST. KENTON • 419-674-4878

Schedule Your Appointment Online - twirlbride.com

SHARE YOUR WEDDING

Submit your wedding photo to be published in an upcoming issue of Columbus Weddings.

Visit cbuswedmag.com/DreamDay for details.

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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style preservation

For You, Forever A primer on post-wedding bridal gown care

BY SARA WILSON Cleaning and preserving a wedding gown is delicate work, and it doesn’t necessarily come cheap. In a time when many brides are forgoing the post-nuptial process in the interest of shaving a few dollars off their budget, we wondered—is preservation still worth it?

The short answer: It absolutely is.

We spoke with local brides and Margaret Butler of Dublin Cleaners for tips on achieving the ideal end result and reasons why it might matter down the road.

First, it’s in your dress’s best interest to leave the cleaning to the professionals. Specialists such as Dublin Cleaners—which has been keeping wedding gowns pristine for almost 40 years—use state-of-the-art cleaning methods and museum- and heirloomquality, acid-free packing materials. In other words, put those DIY articles away.

“Wedding gown fabrics and lace are very delicate, so it is more important than normal that—at least for the cleaning—it comes in as soon as possible after the wedding,” Butler says, though she does note a caveat.

“If you don’t see serious stains, you don’t have to rush it in. I always tell a very recent bride she needs time for decompression post-wedding because it seems like such a whirlwind once you look back on it.”

If you get something on the dress, use caution in treating it yourself. “We suggest to blot the affected area. Do not rub!”

Butler says. And forget about club soda. “I know it’s a natural reaction, when someone wants to put something on the stain to keep it from setting. Depending on the fabric and depending on the stain, some of those remedies can set a stain rather than remove it.”

Even if you’re the picture of grace on your big day and you don’t spill anything, your gown will come into contact with dirt, especially along the hem. That’s what happened to Megan Diedalis, who went to New Albany Cleaners—sister company of Dublin Cleaners—for help.

“The bottom of my dress was destroyed,” she says. “I don’t even know what all was on it! We took pictures outside, so I am sure 42

COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

ABOVE, Gabrielle Wenter turned to Dublin Cleaners to clean and preserve her gown after she married Michael Wenter (Together We Click); BELOW, Katie Nusbaum also relied on Dublin Cleaners to ensure her gown was pristine after her wedding (Sanchez Studio).

just the light rubbing on the ground for fiveplus hours was just too much for it.” But grass and dirt aren’t the only enemies of a white hem.

“By far the worst stains to deal with are when the bride walks across a parking lot. She can encounter remnants of fluid leaks from cars, and also the rough surface of a sidewalk or a parking lot can be abrasive and snag delicate fabrics,” Butler says. “One other issue I caution brides about is getting too close to black mulch beds in the outdoor areas where you are posing for photographs. The dye in black mulch can transfer to the fabric and be very difficult, if not impossible, to remove.”

The reasons for cleaning a gown are obvious, especially if you intend to sell or reuse the gown in some way, but the decision to properly preserve it can have more nuance.

“I think you need to think about it as a long-term decision and not just a quick save of money,” Diedalis says. “It was important to me to preserve it because my mom preserved hers, and I cut a piece of it out and had it sewn on the inside of my dress. I want to be able to have the chance to do that with my daughter as well.”

Ultimately, the choice to preserve your gown is yours. For her part, Butler’s recommendation goes beyond professional interest.

“We recommend preservation of a wedding dress for the clients who would like to enjoy their wedding dresses on special anniversary milestones for years in the future,” she says. “I know from personal experience—having been married 46 years—every time I look at my dress, it just brings back the best memories of that day.”

Ric and Megan Diedalis on their wedding day; Megan brought her gown to New Albany Cleaners for preservation services. (Nicole Dixon Photographic)

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style accessories

Go Long Cathedral-length veils make a comeback.

BY EMMA FRANKART HENTERLY For several years, brides have kept their veils simple, opting for blusher or birdcage styles—if they wore one at all. (The no-veil trend had been so popular that we dedicated a whole article to it in our summer/fall 2017 issue, in fact.)

But the winds of trends are constantly shifting, and this choice is no exception. In recent months, brides have been embracing the veil—and then some—as the cathedrallength accessory has made a comeback.

“It’s definitely a trend,” says Maria Vietmeier, store manager at Henri's Bridal. She notes that the recent styles of minimal, simple gowns leave room for a dramatic veil. “A lot of the [gown] manufacturers are actually making veils right now. Morilee, for example, is actually designing veils that match the dresses in both fingertip length and cathedral. Before, she normally just did fingertip length.”

Laura Wingfield, owner of Twirl in Kenton, points to celebrity brides like Meghan Markle and Kim Kardashian as drivers of this trend. She urges brides to consider a variety of cathedral lengths, from a shorter version that mimics a sweep train in a gown to an all-out stunner that extends several feet behind the wearer.

If you’re going long for your veil, Vietmeier encourages including a hair accessory, like a headband or comb, to accompany the look. If you do that, your hair will still carry a bridal element even after you ditch the veil for dancing. And on that note, she has another piece of advice.

“I always tell my brides, wear [the long veil] in for the reception, and then take it off when you sit down for dinner … because you will want those pictures of you coming in with your veil,” she says.

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ABOVE, Jennifer Bruggeman sported a blinged-out hairpiece to complement her full-length veil when she married Nathan Bruggeman (AddVision); BELOW, Sheela Jorgenson’s long veil was a perfect accessory for her Allure Bridals gown (Christopher Keels Photographer).

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT, Jaime Scott wore a dramatic veil with rhinestones and a scalloped edge (Hillary Ferguson Photography); Jacqueline Ricker’s Sara Gabriel veil was a great match for her Paloma Blanca gown (Derk’s Works Photography); Ariana Harris chose a cathedral-length veil that suited the classy venue where she married Eric Harris (Style & Story); Jaimee Wheeler’s long veil created a gorgeous photo op on her wedding day (Hillary Ferguson Photography).

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style rings

Taking Shape Gemstones come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to know what style you like best. From the classic round to the contemporary sideways marquise, there’s a shape out there for everyone. —Emma Frankart Henterly

PHOTO BY TIM JOHNSON

1 Emerald: Simon G 18k white gold ring with 0.77ctw round diamonds, $3,300 (setting only); 2 Sideways emerald: LaFonn sterling silver or 14k white gold ring, $135 or $600 (setting only); 3 Radiant: Simon G 18k white and yellow gold set with 0.35ctw princess and round diamonds, $4,500 (setting only); 4 Pear: Simon G 18k white gold set with 0.72ctw round diamonds, $4,180 (setting only); 5 Round: Unique Settings of New York 18k white gold ring with 0.42ctw tapered baguette diamonds, $2,745 (setting only), and band with 0.6ctw baguette and tapered baguette diamonds, $3,825; 6 Sideways marquise: Uneek 14k white gold ring with 1.57ct center stone and 0.45ctw round diamonds, $10,350; 7 Marquise: LaFonn sterling silver/cubic zirconia set, $230 (set in 14k white gold, $2,600 plus cost of diamonds, available on request); 8 Cushion: Stuller 14k white gold ring, $600 (setting only); 9 Oval: Stuller 14k white gold ring, $600 (setting only); 10 Sideways princess: Unique Settings of New York 14k white gold engagement ring with 0.21ctw round diamonds, $1,595 (setting only), and band with 0.14ctw diamonds, $965; 11 Princess: Unique Settings of New York 14k white gold ring with 0.82ctw tapered baguette and round diamonds, $3,765 (setting only). 1–4 and 6 from Alexanders Jewelers; 1–2, 5 and 7–11 from Worthington Jewelers.

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The Jeweler of the Short North 689 N. High St., Columbus, Ohio 43215 614-233-6666 | AlexandersColumbus.com

style rings Devyn and David Reing found their multi-metal rings at Diamond Cellar and Wedding Bands HQ. (Sanchez Studio)

Material World Tips for choosing the metal for your wedding bands

BY PETER TONGUETTE In the world of wedding planning, every choice can seem important, but some have longerterm ramifications than others.

“After the flowers are dead, the cake’s eaten, the food’s gone, the liquor’s drunk, the things that you’re left over with are the photos and your rings,” says Gabe Truxall, a diamond buyer at Diamond Cellar.

In other words: If you made the wrong choice of Champagne, the consequences aren’t as dire as regretting your selection of wedding band. But with jewelers offering a multitude of metal options, where does a bride or groom begin?

Kathryn Givens, sales floor supervisor at Worthington Jewelers, says that white-toned metals are still the top pick among most brides. Whether to go with white gold or platinum, however, comes down to how much you want to spend—and when.

White gold is more affordable up front, but it requires investment in the long run.

“To get it that extra bright white that everybody likes, you do have to plate it with a platinum-type metal,” Givens says.

To retain the look, the band needs to be rhodium-plated about once a year; Givens says Worthington Jewelers charges about $35, but it can be as high as $100 elsewhere.

Platinum bands, on the other hand, will retain their look without a lot of effort.

“When you scratch platinum, it’s kind of like you swipe your finger through a block of clay—it just shifts the material around,” Truxall says. “When you scratch gold, it’s like chalk on a chalkboard, so it thins out over time.”

But the lack of maintenance translates to a higher price tag at first.

“A 14-karat, white gold ring is going to be less expensive than a platinum ring,” Truxall says. “The tradeoff is that you have maintenance down the road with the gold as it thins out over time.”

If a bride opts for a color other than white for her band, there are attractive alternatives to be found in yellow and rose gold. Neither metal, however, is as strong as white gold; rose gold is the least strong. “They alloy with cop48

COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

per to get it to be that pink color,” Givens says.

“It is a little bit softer than the other colors.”

For grooms, Givens notes an increase in popularity in contemporary metals, which lack the luster of gold or platinum. “They’re a little bit more masculine-looking,” she says.

Tungsten carbide is among the darkest options, bearing a gunmetal shade; along with cobalt, it is also among the most durable of the contemporary-metal choices. Palladium works well for a plain band, but it can become brittle with the addition of stones.

And, for those who seek the appearance of white gold or platinum, there is always cobalt—though it tends to be the most expensive alternative option. (Titanium is the least expensive, and because it’s lightweight, it is easy to manipulate.) Then again, Truxall tries to steer grooms back toward gold or platinum anyway—despite the popularity of alternative options.

“I don’t think a guy should wear something that’s a symbol of his commitment and everlasting love that basically is made out of the same material as a tile floor,” Truxall says, referring to tungsten carbide. He adds

KEEP IT SAFE

The wedding’s over, but you still have to go to work, right?

Unfortunately, wedding bands can be scratched, particularly if your hands are in constant use at work. Fear not: Worthington Jewelers carries Qalo, a brand of silicone bands that can stand up to your job.

“It allows you to wear a replacement wedding band while you’re not wearing your nice one,” says Kathryn Givens of Worthington Jewelers, adding that the option is popular among nurses, police officers, firemen and electricians—the latter, she says, “because it doesn’t conduct electricity.”

Widths and finishes vary, though most couples choose bright colors and interesting patterns to contrast with their real rings. Another pro tip for newlyweds: The silicone bands are good to take while on honeymoon, Givens says, if traveling to “somewhere tropical” and snorkeling is involved.

that the material is brittle enough to shatter upon hitting a hard surface. “Then you’re ending up replacing a ring,” he says.

bridal party style Caitie Couper’s bridesmaids wore various #Levkoff gowns when she wed Yeahwa Hong.

(Derk’s Works Photography)

The One vs. The Many Your bridesmaids aren’t the same. Should their dresses be?

BY RYLAN LEE

Creating a cohesive look for your wedding is easy when it comes to picking venue decorations, a cake design or just about any other inanimate factor. But where things get a little more complicated is the living, breathing people in your wedding party.

More than likely, your bridesmaids aren’t identical clones—some are taller, others shorter; some smaller-framed, others fuller.

So along with picking a bridesmaid dress that fits the look of your wedding, you’re charged with the task of finding a dress that also fits the many different bodies of your bridesmaids. Is it even possible to find a dress that can do it all?

This is a rather common concern for brides, says Beth Rocks, store manager for David’s Bridal in Easton. “That comes up daily for our bridal parties that are coming in.”

Caitie Couper, who wed Yeahwa Hong on June 1, 2018, was no exception. After realizing two of her bridesmaids would be pregnant—one at eight months, the other at four— for the wedding, she had to shift her original image for her bridal party. “The original style

that I liked, I realized it was not going to be nice for a pregnant woman,” Couper admits.

She opted instead for a variety of gowns from Bill Levoff’s #Levkoff collection.

But while the task of finding one dress that looks good on many bodies might sound daunting, the process can be made easier by adhering to some fail-safe styles— and avoiding others.

For silhouette, opt for an empire waistline. “Anything that has an empire waistline is always going to be pretty flattering,” says Rocks. The style is a bridesmaid classic for a reason: the higher waistline is sure to look good on a wide range of body types … including pregnant ones.

Turning to necklines, sweetheart necklines are a similarly safe—and fashionable— option that is sure to flatter many, according to Maria Vietmeier, store manager at Henri's Bridal. “A sweetheart neckline is gorgeous on anyone, any shape,” she affirms.

A V-neck, Vietmeier adds, is another option that will both flatter and look appropriate for a range of body shapes. Rocks

also notes that a V-neck—or tank strap—will be appealing to bridesmaids because it will allow them to wear their own, everyday bras.

But, if you’re looking for a universally flattering bridesmaid dress, Vietmeier cautions against options with high necklines.

“If you get up into something with a super high neck, that’s kind of where it gets a little bit difficult,” she says.

Vietmeier also recommends, when it comes to choosing a fabric, to stay away from satin.

Satin tends to be used for more fitted dresses, she says, and that look can be particularly hard to pull off for shorter bridesmaids.

But the tried-and-true fabric of bridesmaids dresses, chiffon, will never disappoint. “Chiffon looks good on a lot of people,” Vietmeier explains, “and that is definitely something, no matter how tall [or] short you are, you can get a nice hem, and it will have the same consistency for all of the bridesmaids.”

But picking one flattering dress for all of your ’maids is actually only one option.

The other? Ditch the one-dress-for-all mentality completely.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT, A single hue and designer kept Alexandria Theodosopoulos-Plaster’s Azazie bridesmaid gowns cohesive (Nicole Dixon Photographic); Gabrielle Wenter’s ’maids wore a variety of gowns in the same blush shade (Together We Click); Laura Arnett asked her bridesmaids to don different gowns in the same shade of blue (Forget Me Knot Photography); Katelyn Tucture’s bridesmaids each purchased their own navy, knee-length dress; bridesmaids at Jacqueline Ricker’s wedding all wore a Jenny Yoo floral print dress with personalized necklines (both Derk’s Works Photography).

This was the route Couper decided to go.

She picked out three different dresses for her six bridesmaids. The dresses were all the same soft-pink color, sleeveless and with a halter neckline. Two of the three dresses had a defined, empire silhouette—which differed from each other in straight or curved waistlines—but the third option was a loose peplum with an undefined waistline.

This is a trend Rocks sees brides favoring of late. “I have noticed recently—and this has been a trend for the last couple years— where the bride is giving the bridesmaids much more flexibility in choosing their own dresses,” she says.

Having multiple dresses for your bridesmaids can take many different forms: They might wear different colored dresses, dresses with different necklines or dresses with completely different silhouettes. Brides can stipulate who wears which dresses, or have their bridesmaids pick from a range 50

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of options. But be careful not to give too many choices. The risk of going this route is losing a cohesive through-line among your bridesmaids. To combat this, Vietmeier and Rocks both recommend ensuring your ’maids have consistency in their gowns’ length and fabric.

For fabric, Rocks warns that different fabrics will not only look different, but photograph differently, too. To ensure consistency even within the same fabric choice, Vietmeier recommends sticking with the same manufacturer. “A lot of people are wearing different styles within the same bridal party,” she explains, “so [the manufacturers] make corresponding styles to that.”

Even with keeping length and fabric the same, though, there are still several variables to choose from: color, silhouette, neckline, sleeve. For a more dramatic difference, have your bridesmaids wear different color

dresses—the trick here is to limit the options to shades of one color or colors within one family—think blush and burgundy, or eggplant and lavender. No matter what you end up choosing, Vietmeier says the foolproof rule to having bridal party variety is to stick to one variation.

In some ways, this seems the easier of the two solutions: allowing variety in what bridesmaids wear can alleviate some of the burden on the bride to pick The One Perfect Bridesmaid Dress. Couper also adds that allowing some flexibility can limit the amount of alterations bridesmaids will need.

“Giving my bridesmaids options helped,” Couper says, “rather than giving them a dress and then having to get a ton of alterations, which can be expensive.”

But whether brides pick one bridesmaid dress or five, Vietmeier reminds that there’s no right or wrong route. “I like my brides to be happy,” she says. “It’s up to them.”

menswear style

Beyond Basics A black tuxedo or suit will always be a classic for weddings, but today’s grooms are finding that colored suiting boosts their style game and shows some personality, too. Ensembles on the following pages are courtesy American Commodore; prices vary based on current promotions and are available on request. Model Chris Vaughn is from Found Models. —Emma Frankart Henterly

PHOTOS BY ROB HARDIN

BURGUNDY BEAUTY Camden by Ike Behar tuxedo jacket in burgundy, black ultra-slim pant, black slim-fit microfiber tuxedo shirt, black Michael Kors vest, Allure Men charcoal stripe bow tie and pocket square, black patent leather shoe, black detail tuxedo buttons and cufflinks

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SHADES OF GRAY Allure Men jacket, three-button vest and slim pant in heather gray, slim-fit microfiber classic lay-down collar shirt, Larr Brio bow tie in classic navy, matte gray Allure Men shoe

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menswear style

IN THE NAVY Sebastian by Ike Behar tuxedo jacket, slim pant and vest in navy, ultra-white microfiber wide-spread collar tuxedo shirt, Simply Solid by Larr Brio tie and pocket square in dusty rose, Allure Men shoe in cognac brown

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Grooming the Groom Pampering services for men

BY EMMA FRANKART HENTERLY Much ado is made about a bride’s pre-wedding pampering: many women opt for massages and facials in the months leading up to the big day, and of course there’s the day-of hair and makeup services. At Bates & Brown in Northwest Columbus, the guys can achieve that same level of indulgence in a masculine space built just for them.

“We have a private party room that they can rent out, and we serve complimentary drinks and a meat and cheese tray along with that,” says manager Brittany Evilsizor. For six or fewer people, that rental includes two hours of time for haircuts and shaves, though gents with larger parties can get additional time. Another option: renting out the entire barber shop for an ultrapersonalized experience.

In addition to straight-razor shaves and haircuts, Bates & Brown offers massage services in 60- or 90-minute increments. “They can add on a 15-minute chair massage to the end of their service or the beginning, either way they want, to get more relaxed and pampered,” Evilsizor adds.

The straight-razor shave, which involves two levels of service from which to choose,

includes a hot lather, hot and cool towels, and a neck massage with a handheld Oster massager. The more upscale Bates shave also includes aromatherapy, a mini facial and an extended massage of the arms and shoulders.

Haircuts follow a similar format: Both levels of service include a relaxing shampoo and hot lather neck shave in addition to the cut. The top-line Bates cut adds on aromatherapy, a scalp and temple massage during shampooing, a hot facial towel and an Oster neck massage.

Bates & Brown also offers brow grooming and beard line-up services—in short, just about everything a man could need to perfect his look before his wedding day.

During cooler weather, the barber shop’s wood-burning fireplace is put to good use.

(The rest of the year, a candle arrangement provides ambiance without the heat.) The shop itself is decked out in dark hues, wood and leather, giving it the air of a cigar lounge or a 1950s men’s club. Oldies or big-band music plays softly in the background, and the shop’s custom scent—a masculine blend made by the Candle Lab— wafts through the air.

“We have a very relaxed, kind of oldschool feel,” Evilsizor says. “There’s really no other place like us in Columbus that has the feel and the charm.”

PHOTO: ROB HARDIN

The main barber stations at Bates & Brown

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beauty style

Letting Loose How to achieve the season’s hottest bridal ’do

BY RYLAN LEE Last season, bridal makeup trended understated. This season, hair is following suit: Welcome to the era of the anti-updo. Brides are letting their hair down—releasing it from tight ponytails and intricate twists—and opting instead for cascades of waves or curls.

For local bride Stephanie Johnson, who married Luke Johnson on April 1, 2017, the style was a natural pairing for her laid-back wedding. “I didn’t want a super stuffy updo, and I usually just feel more comfortable with my hair down,” she explains.

But while the bridal wave looks effortless, it’s not so effortlessly achieved.

The first hurdle is creating the curls. For brides with naturally textured hair, a blowout is a vital first step to prep and smooth the strands.

When it comes to styling the hair, Sarah Mohre, hair stylist at Square One Salon and Day Spa, approaches the look by making the curls tighter than intended so that, as the hair deflates throughout the day, it will loosen into your ideal look.

Which heating tool—curling iron or flat iron—is needed will depend on the type of curl or wave you want. But what is your ideal look? It might be deceiving, but, as Mohre explains, there’s a lot of variety in the down ’do. After picking a spot on the curl-wave spectrum, you’ll then have to sort through various versions of either style. Plus there’s always the option of add-ins: a headband, a comb or some soft floral inserts.

If you’re struggling to pick a look, consider matching your hair to your dress. If your gown has lots of embellishments, for example, you may want to consider a simpler and looser hairstyle that doesn’t distract from the dress itself. But for minimalist or more classic dresses, you can shoot for a more dramatic texture.

Mohre cautions, though, to be aware of what is even possible for your hair. It’s important to understand, she says, “what the natural texture of the hair does, and how it’s going to hold that.” Having a consultation with a hairstylist is the best way to figure out what is and isn’t feasible.

Kenneth’s Hair Salon styled loose waves and a headband for Stephanie Johnson’s bridal look.

(Hillary Ferguson Photography)

After achieving your curled or wavy look, the next task is making it stand the test of time. Quick head movements, humidity, wind, any bit of touching—all these and more pose a threat to your style. “Wearing [your hair] down, you have a greater chance of the waves falling out a little bit,” Mohre explains.

The solution is twofold: a handful of bobby pins and an arsenal of hair products.

Yes, you read that right—bobby pins will be needed to wear your hair down.

When it comes to preparing the hair to last through the day, Mika Manley, hair stylist at PENZONE Salons + Spas, has a trick up her sleeve—or, rather, under your hair.

After setting the curls, when the hair is still

hot from the iron, Manley will pin sections of curls to the scalp to counteract the hair losing its shape during the day’s activities.

“It’s almost like taking a safety pin and pinning a piece of your dress up,” she says.

As for hair products, Manley uses a plethora of sprays: a spray wax or paste, a shine spray, a definition spray, a dry hair spray and a volumizing spray, as well as an anti-frizz serum.

Sprays, she explains, are perfect for the down ’do because they don’t weigh down the hair.

The whole process might sound like more than many would think at this point. But to hear Manley sum it up, it’s not so overwhelming: “Set it and press it, and then pin it and spray it.”

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style beauty Jacqueline (Dennis) Ricker gets ready for her wedding to Corbin Ricker.

(Derk’s Works Photography)

SWEATINESS, OILINESS AND REDNESS,

Oh My!

Local makeup mavens share tips to combat summer heat and keep you looking great.

BY ABBEY ANSPACH A shimmering, dewy look is a popular trend for bridal makeup this season, but only to an extent. Don’t let a “natural” look turn into a natural disaster thanks to the heat and humidity you may be exposed to on your big day.

While you may have hired a makeup professional to execute your wedding look and ensure it stays in place, it is still incredibly important for you to understand your own skin and have the right questions and recommendations when going into the process with your artist.

First and foremost, keep in mind that your wedding-day makeup doesn’t start (or end) with your makeup trial appointment.

In fact, it should start months beforehand.

The way your makeup looks—and more importantly, how it wears as the night goes on—depends on the health of your skin.

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“As soon as you get engaged and get your wedding planning started, that’s the time to start reassessing your [skincare] regime,” advises Melody Kuck, a senior aesthetician at PENZONE Salons + Spas. “Your makeup is only going to be as good as the skin underneath.”

We aren’t all makeup gurus, so it may be difficult to know exactly how to prepare. If you’re not sure whether your skin is dry, oily or combination—or what other concerns you might need to be aware of—it can help to schedule a facial early in your engagement.

Not only will you get some much-needed pampering to help you deal with planning stress, you can also use the opportunity to educate yourself on your skin’s needs.

Kuck recommends having a consultation with your makeup artist at least a month prior to your wedding to go over your final

skincare regimen and practice the vision you have for your makeup.

The most important thing to keep in mind? Honesty. The whole purpose of a trial appointment is to voice your ideas and ultimately say something if it’s not what you had in mind.

“I’d rather have that communication with [the bride at the trial] instead of them coming in nervous for their wedding day, even though you practiced once,” Kuck says. “I want you to look beautiful and I want you to feel beautiful, and if that means we are going to have to try three or four different lipsticks, that’s what’s going to happen.”

Alyssa Arnold, a makeup artist at Square One Salon and Day Spa, also recommends bringing inspiration photos to your trial.

“If you have a picture, that gives a visual reference for both the makeup artist and the

bride,” she says. This is especially important when clients aren’t particularly familiar with makeup. A bride could say a brown, smoky eye when she means a charcoal cut crease, so a picture helps clear up any confusion around industry jargon.

While a picture might give guidance and serve as inspiration, it’s important to not get hung up on recreating the exact look.

“A professional is a professional for a reason,” Kuck says. “Obviously, a picture or a vision is a jumping-off point, but let [the makeup artist] guide you through the process, because she’s probably done this before. This isn’t her first rodeo.”

And your honesty shouldn’t end with your thoughts on the trial look, particularly when it comes to a summer wedding. Your skin will react to being outside in the heat and humidity, which for a lot of people means sweat and oil.

A lot can happen between your early morning hair and makeup appointments and walking to the altar—not to mention activities at the reception. While you may leave your appointment looking flawless and fresh, exposure to outside conditions and your skin’s natural tendencies can affect how your makeup holds throughout the day.

While a makeup artist can predict conditions like the heat and plan accordingly, she doesn’t know your skin type, which Kuck says plays a huge role in the products your makeup artist will use. For example: You may come in to your appointment with dry

Jessica Bentley Skin Spa made sure Jaime Scott’s makeup stayed in place for her July 2017 wedding.

(Hillary Ferguson Photography) SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT, Makeup by Tatum puts the finishing touches on Stephanie (Norwood) Johnson’s makeup (Hillary Ferguson Photography); Caitie Couper laughs as a PENZONE Salon + Spa aesthetician finishes her look (Derk’s Works Photography); Ariana Harris shined—in a good way—on her wedding day (Style & Story); a makeup artist works on Jaimee (Walt) Wheeler’s eye look (Hillary Ferguson Photography).

skin, but you also may have a tendency to sweat when you’re nervous. If you don’t share that fact with your artist, he or she won’t know to use the right products.

Redness is another major makeup concern when the temps turn up. “Redness is one of the hardest things to tint down,” says Kuck, citing a number of contributing factors. For a lot of women, she explains, redness can be the result of anything from anxiety to heat to alcohol consumption. If you are prone to redness, be sure to notify your makeup artist so he or she can be proactive in combating the problem.

When it comes to her clients’ makeup routine, especially in anticipation of the summer heat, Arnold’s motto is “prep, set and wear less,” with an emphasis on the “wear less.”

“I remember a couple times, when I was just starting my journey, that I just acted like it was any other day. [The bride] looked beautiful when she left, but the next thing you know, things were starting to break apart on the face, were just too heavy and were settling into creases,” she says.

Airbrush makeup is a great tool to ensure that the product is spread evenly and, more importantly, lightly. Both Kuck and Arnold 58

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say that they use airbrush foundation, especially in the summer months, versus a traditional long-wearing foundation. When asked about the difference, Kuck explains that the biggest distinction is the seamless coverage the airbrush provides.

“Airbrush makeup is almost pixilated, if you will, because it comes out of such fine spray. You can make a really full-coverage look completely seamless, like there’s nothing on the skin,” she says.

Between the stress, hugs, happy tears and fun you’re going have on your big day, touchups can be a necessity—especially when your makeup appointment is several hours before.

Both PENZONE and Square One salons provide brides with their shade of lipstick and compact powders to set their makeup as the day unfolds. As you’re researching makeup artists for your own day, make sure you ask about this important perk.

And if you’re still worried about the longevity of your makeup, Kuck has some words of wisdom.

“As long as you get good photographs at the beginning, no one’s going to remember what you look like by 11 o’clock,” she says.

“Trust me, they don’t care by then.”

style flowers

To Splurge or to Save?

The blooms that go into your bouquet have a major effect on your bottom line. We asked three local florists to create a knockout, no-price-is-toohigh bridal bouquet, as well as a wallet-friendly version for those with Champagne tastes and a beer budget. Here’s what they created. On each page, the “splurge” version is in the vase, and the “save” version is lying down. —Emma Frankart Henterly

PHOTOS BY TIM JOHNSON

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ORCHARD LANE FLOWERS Strikingly similar in appearance, these bouquets differ only in the price of their blooms. Both feature Italian ruscus, weeping podocarpus and agonis to provide wispy texture. The splurge bouquet features peonies, dahlia, garden roses and ranunculus; its counterpart swaps those flowers out for standard roses, spray roses, carnations and chrysanthemums.

CONNELL’S MAPLE LEE FLOWERS & GIFTS English garden roses give the splurge arrangement its interest, with silver dollar and seeded eucalyptus to provide texture. For the budget-minded, a dozen standard roses are classic and economical.

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THE PAPER DAISY FLOWER BOUTIQUE Tropical tones reign in these arrangements, which are filled out with leafy greens. The pricier bouquet uses garden roses, orchids, anemones and stock, which are substituted with standard roses, calla lilies, daylilies and statice in the money-saving version.

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flowers style

Madison House Designs created bouquets with white roses and lots of greenery for Kelly Kulchar and her bridesmaids.

(Forget Me Knot Photography)

Fun with Foliage Incorporating greenery brings your wedding to life in a whole new way.

BY CHELSEA CASTLE For a life event known to be full of many options and decisions, all within the confines of budgets and differing opinions, there are few other elements that can facilitate compromise quite like greenery. The recent trend of incorporating leafy greens in wedding bouquets and décor is one that can satisfy any budget, work with any style or season and even provide a bride relief from lugging around a heavy floral bouquet.

While it’s likely always been a trend in parts of the world where tropical greens are native, it’s only been in recent years that the greenery trend has been popping up here, says Orchard Lane Flowers owner Kasey Conyers. She’s seeing the trend a lot in her shop; she credits its popularity to the uniqueness it can bring to any bride, bouquet or wedding.

“Our goal in helping design a wedding is, you always want to make it unique and a little different, and there are so many types of greenery you can use that people maybe haven’t seen before,” Conyers says. “They might think a bridal bouquet is all flowers, but if you remove some flowers and add some greenery, you change the whole look of it, and it’s really beautiful and really interesting.”

Chalk this trend up as one you can participate in and still make your own. For both the bride and bridesmaids, foliage comes in many interesting shapes, shades, textures and colors, adding much room for creativity.

For brides who like the traditional, rounded-style bouquet, Conyers says you can incorporate little greens sprinkled around the blooms.

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The Paper Daisy Flower Boutique 14 E Hubbard Avenue Short North Arts District (614)754-1697 thepaperdaisy.com

TOP LEFT, A loose, wild arrangement of white roses, eucalyptus and other greenery made up Jaimie Rodger’s bouquet; TOP RIGHT, A pop of lavender was the only color in the bridal bouquet at Eliza and Justin Lee’s wedding (both Sanchez Studio); BOTTOM, Bloomtastic’s duochrome arrangements for Caitie Couper and Yeahwa Hong’s wedding included roses, ranunculus, sage and eucalyptus (Derk’s Works Photography).

Celebrate

your special day in The Dispatch Place your wedding and anniversary announcements in The Sunday Dispatch by emailing celebrations@ dispatch.com or by calling 614.888.8888.

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

“And then we have a lot of brides liking the asymmetrical bouquets with lots of greens.

They tend to be quite large,” she notes.

The funny thing, Conyer adds, is even with the sizable and sweeping shape of the leafy green bouquets, they tend to be much more affordable than the textured, rounded ones.

“One stem of greenery can be broken into several pieces, and with the shape of it, things can have movement and it can be more airy, so we’re not trying to fill in every single space,” Conyers says. “We can’t have holes in a traditional bouquet with flowers. So the more flowers you use, the more expensive the bouquet becomes.”

Another benefit of the greenery is that it’s

significantly lighter in weight. “Even still, after all these years, I’m always amazed at how heavy the traditional flower bouquets are. It’s an arm workout,” says Conyers.

Greenery also has a significantly longer lifespan than flowers, as it doesn’t need a water source to keep it perky.

Leafy greens and foliage are finding ways to fit into other elements of the wedding, too, sometimes creating a whole look and feel that is different than one might expect. “[The greens] really give the brides and grooms a whole new set of options for wedding décor if you’re able to go into just greens,” Conyers says. “[We’ve seen] really big, beautiful centerpieces, where the whole centerpiece was all greenery and it sat up

high in a vase. It had fern and big tropical leaves, and it didn’t look tropical; it just looked like a really lush arrangement.”

For those wanting a subtler look, greens can be incorporated in a low vase with simple and wispy pieces, or they could be used loosely on tables, adds Conyers.

“Just trust your designers; they should have a vast knowledge of all types of greenery,” she says. “Be open to something new or different that maybe you haven’t seen on your Pinterest board.”

The most popular foliage to use tends to be various forms of eucalyptus, from the beadlike seeded variety to silver dollar, which tend to have more rounded leaves and are very light and airy.

“There’s willow eucalyptus—the leaves are very long and skinny,” Conyers adds.

HERE COMES THE BRIDE VISIT US AT CMLFLOWERS.COM/WEDDING 1-800-790-8980

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3014 E Broad Street 2033 Stringtown Road 8573 Owenfield Drive

614-237-8653 614-539-4000 740-548-4082

January

12 & 13

ABOVE, Katelyn Tucture carried white baby’s breath, spray asters and cremons, all mixed with Italian ruscus and silver dollar and gumdrop eucalyptus (Derk’s Works Photography); BELOW, Devyn Reing carried white peonies, roses, ranunculus and lisianthus to balance the greenery in her bouquet when she wed David Reing (Sanchez Studio).

• 2019 •

Cardinal Hall

Ohio Expo Center

CbusWeddings.com #CbusWeddingsShow Official Show of Columbus Weddings Magazine

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Advertiser Directory BEAUTY

J Bentley Hair Studio and Day Spa jbentley.com 614-790-8828 8882 Moreland St., Powell

PENZONE Salons + Spas

ABOVE, Lauren McPherson and her ’maids carried a variety of white blooms accented with seeded and silver dollar eucalyptus (Brett Loves Elle Photography); BELOW, Leather fern, dusty miller, lemon leaf and olive branches provided the verdant hues of the bouquets that Erin Mitchell and her ladies carried (Forget Me Knot Photography).

penzonesalons.com 614-418-5350 640 N. High St., Columbus 548 S. Third St., Columbus 6645 Village Pkwy., Dublin 1356 Cherry Way Dr., Gahanna 771 Polaris Pkwy., Lewis Center 2260 W. Henderson Rd., Upper Arlington

Square One Salon and Day Spa squareonesalon.com 614-365-3333 275 S. Fourth St., Columbus 614-775-0505 5485 New Albany Rd. W, New Albany

Stonecreek Dental Care helpmysmile.com 614-845-7287 233 N. 21st St., Newark 11295 Stonecreek Dr. NW, Pickerington BRIDAL SALONS

Henri’s Bridal We often mix them all together. And then if someone doesn’t like that dusty color, we lean on Italian ruscus.”

Conyers also loves using agonis, a burgundy, willowy plant that’s a fun infusion of color among the greens for any part of the event or décor.

“Our challenge is always to find an interesting mix of greens for our clients, depending on the colors and styles they are going for,” Conyers explains. “We love the big, tropical greens, but girls tend to really like the dark green of wispy greens.”

If you’re concerned about selecting the right combination of blooms and greens, Conyers stresses that you can mix and match however you want.

“It just depends on the overall look and feel of your wedding,” she says.

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“The Italian ruscus goes well for a stronger palette. And the eucalyptus would be better for a softer, more blushy palette.”

Other elements to consider are larger leaves, like palms and other tropical foliage, which are often used in nontropical ways. Their size can have a lot of impact, while still maintaining a minimal feel that’s perfect on a bar or dessert table.

At the end of the day, incorporating any amount of foliage tends to be less expensive and opens the door of creativity to make your wedding your own.

“You can’t really screw greenery up,” Conyers says. “And if you’re not super inclined to crafting, you might want to go with greenery—you really can’t go wrong.”

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CEREMONY 68 • RECEPTION 74 • RECEPTION GUIDE 88 CATERING 112 • REHEARSAL DINNER 122 • CAKES 123 SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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Shelby and Nicklaus Jurden, together with Nicklaus’ daughter Cayden, perform their candy jar unity ceremony at the Athletic Club of Columbus. (AddVision)

Something Old, Something New Couples reveal the hidden meanings behind their unity ceremonies.

BY KATIE ANNARINO Weddings come in all shapes and sizes, but for decades, one tradition remained an untouched wedding staple: the unity ceremony. For many couples, this ceremony consists of two candles merging to light a combined flame on a third candle, a traditional symbol of two souls becoming one. Recently, couples are reimagining this ceremony in the hopes of creating a personal experience.

For Shelby and Nicklaus Jurden, who were married in March 2018 at the Athletic Club of Columbus, the unity ceremony had two purposes: to be unique and something that would reflect not just two becoming one, but three becoming one. The celebration incorporated Nicklaus’ daughter.

“We did a candy unity ceremony,” says Shelby. “We picked out our favorite candy—me, my husband and my stepdaughter—and combined our favorite candies into one jar. I chose salted caramel 68

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Ghirardelli, Cayden did M&Ms, and Nick did Kit Kats.”

In the generous, pooling sunlight of a bay window, under a glass, beaded antique chandelier, the couple stood on either side of a table with Cayden in between.

“We wanted to include her, and we tried to think of a fun, creative way to do that,” Nicklaus explains. “It was pretty much her favorite part of the ceremony. She was all smiles, and that made us both feel so good.”

For couples like the Jurdens, who chose to put an original spin on a very traditional part of the wedding ceremony, it’s not about being different just for the sake of being different; it’s about embracing the very things that make their new family unique.

While some couples choose to deviate completely from the traditional unity ceremony, others—like Lauren and Brett McPherson, who wed in July 2017 at

Irongate Equestrian Center—wanted to honor the tradition of the unity ceremony in a way that felt true to them.

“We have very traditional families, and our sand ceremony was a way to blend the traditional with what was personal to us,” says Lauren.

She laughs as she recalls their first idea for the unity ceremony.

“Brett and I are huge movie buffs, and we were joking that we should get a unity lightsaber because we are both big Star Wars fans,” she says. “But then we thought that would be a little too out there for most people.”

For the McPhersons, honoring the traditions that their families expected to see was an important goal. The sand ceremony is something of a new tradition, gaining popularity since the early 2000s, though its roots can be traced back to the Hebrew custom

of salt covenants. In both, sand (or salt) is combined, typically into a new container.

And once the grains are mixed, they become impossible to separate—much as a newly married couple is meant to be.

At the McPhersons’ reception, their guests could view the combined coral and brown sand, in its glass-covered wooden box, as they signed the guest book.

“It’s just a unique way to put your stamp on your ceremony. That is a day you are going to remember forever,” says Lauren.

Nathan and Jennifer Bruggeman took this concept a step further, customizing their unity ceremony to their venue, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

The May 2018 ceremony featured a string quartet, paper lanterns and a staircase lined with candles. There, under an iron gazebo threaded with red and pink peonies, they each poured different colors of sand into a single vase, which the Conservatory had blown into a glass bowl. Two weeks later, they picked it up.

“I was born in a traditional Catholic family,” explains Nathan, “so the unity candle was what we grew up seeing. My mom had never seen anything like [our version of a sand ceremony], but she said it was kind of cool, because it was something different that you could put on display.”

The Bruggemans’ unity ceremony was about creating a unique experience, but it was also an issue of utility: What is something we could put on display?

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Lauren and Brett McPherson chose to do a sand ceremony that included their parents in lieu of a traditional candle unity ceremony. (Brett Loves Elle Photography)

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“[A unity candle] was something I knew we would never put on display or be that significant, so we did a unity glass ceremony.

The piece is absolutely gorgeous,” says Jennifer. “Nate picked navy blue, which is so significant because we are both police officers.”

For her color, Jennifer chose teal, to commemorate growing up in the seaside town of Bridgeport, Connecticut.

The glass bowl and its ebbing patterns of blue and teal bear a striking resemblance to ocean waves, making it a fitting centerpiece for their beach-themed living room.

“Every day I walk past it, it reminds me of us becoming one and the love we have for each other,” says Nathan.

Couples planning their weddings continue to ask the tough questions: Why do we do what we do in wedding ceremonies, and how can we do it better? How do we make it more authentic, more personal to who we are?

Whether the answer is caramel-filled candy or teal-colored sand, the deeply personal meaning behind those elements is what creates the kind of memories that last a lifetime.

OTHER UNITY CEREMONIES TO CONSIDER

The unity candle ceremony, which emerged in the latter half of the 20th century, is a symbolic event in which each spouse—or sometimes one or both of their parents—uses the light of their own tapered candle to simultaneously light a larger pillar candle. This ceremony represents two people becoming one. Today, there are many interpretations of this sentiment, varying greatly from one culture to another.

Breaking the glass: According to Jewish tradition, smashing the glass protects and blesses the couple and ensures that they will remain married as long as the glass remains broken.

(You can learn more about Jewish wedding traditions on Page 72.)

Foot washing: Some Christian couples choose to emulate Jesus washing the feet of his disciples; this is meant to symbolize the couple’s humility and commitment to one another.

Warming the rings: In Irish weddings, the couple’s rings are passed around to each guest, so they can “warm” them with prayers and good wishes that will ensure a happy marriage.

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Wine box: For this secular custom, each spouse writes a love letter to the other; the letters are locked in a box, along with a bottle of wine or the couple’s favorite aperitif. The whole package can be reopened for a milestone anniversary or in a time of hardship, as a reminder of why they chose to get married.

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#RelationshipGoals The pros and cons to using social media on your wedding day

BY LILLIAN VAN WYNGAARDEN It’s the wedding day. A hectic, blurred day full of happy tears, dancing and a whole lot of love. It all goes by so fast that most couples are turning to designated hashtags to collect those moments to relive later. But where is the line for social media use in weddings—or does a line exist at all?

For Lindsey and Michael Casher, married in September 2017, using social media was a no-brainer. They invited guests to use both their hashtag (#cashbash) and a Snapchat geofilter to document the day. Whether their guests “unplugged” for the ceremony or reception didn’t matter; Lindsey says she just wanted it to be a true celebration.

“You’ve included these people in your marriage because of the way they’ve each contributed to your lives in their own individual ways,” she says. “Let them celebrate with you in those individual ways as well.”

However, social media use isn’t as simple for all couples. While wedding hashtags are on trend for capturing moments at the reception—not to mention avoiding hours of scouring individual Instagram accounts— many couples are going unplugged for their ceremonies, according to Emilie Duncan, owner and head planner for Emilie Duncan Event Planning.

“Couples will ask their guests to set phones aside for the ceremony and just be in the moment with them, then designate a wedding hashtag and ask people to go nuts at the reception,” says Duncan. “Couples can’t be everywhere at once, and no matter how many photographers [they have], the pros can’t be everywhere.”

The ceremony is an intimate moment and doesn’t always need a filter, according to Stephanie and Nathaniel Marks.

While Stephanie says the hashtag (#makingthemarks2018) and Snapchat group for their August 2018 wedding boosted the fun atmosphere at the reception, going unplugged for the ceremony resulted in beautiful, professional photos and videos that were free from arms and phones blocking the shots.

“That’s not to discredit how much we loved social media for the reception,” says Stephanie. “I loved scrolling through everyone’s pictures the day after. We woke up the next morning and cried [with laughter] in bed, watching all the ridiculous snaps our friends and family sent to the Snapchat group. We wouldn’t have gotten that if we didn’t use social media at all.”

But what exactly is better when it comes to social media: unplugged or all-in? It depends on the couple, says Duncan.

“I think the biggest thing when it comes to using social media in a wedding is couples simply sitting down and talking it out with their other half,” she explains. “Discussing what they hope people come away from the wedding with will ultimately help determine how much to incorporate social media on their special day.”

Lindsey and Michael Casher, who encouraged guests to post to social media on their wedding day.

(Brett Loves Elle Photography) SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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A Beginner’s Guide to a Jewish Wedding Last issue, we provided some insight into the rituals of Indian and Hindu weddings.

This time, we’re turning our focus to another ceremony with a long tradition—the Jewish wedding, as celebrated by one Central Ohio couple, Gabrielle and Michael Wenter.

BY RUTH STERNBERG PHOTOS BY TOGETHER WE CLICK If you’ve never been to a Jewish wedding, you may find many of its traditions beautiful in their historical symbolism. Typically, the ceremony begins as the rabbi or leader reads aloud the Jewish wedding contract, called a ketubah, or ketubot in plural (1), traditionally written in Aramaic and specifying the groom’s commitments to the bride. Couples today usually add modern verbiage outlining both parties’ commitments to one another and commission elaborately decorated ketubot to later frame and display in their homes (2). The couple and two non-blood-related witnesses sign the ketubah (3).

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The next ritual might be the badeken, during which the groom veils the bride’s face in a gesture recalling the Biblical story of Jacob’s first marriage to the wrong woman. Then comes the processional toward the chuppah, or wedding canopy, a symbol of the couple’s new home (4). The bride’s parents escort her down the aisle.

Many couples take their own liberties with the processional, often including the groom and his parents.

Next, the bride may circle the groom three to seven times, representing virtues like righteousness, justice and loving kindness. Couples traditionally exchange rings worn on the right index finger, though the modern placement of left ring finger may also be used (5). The leader recites seven blessings, called sheva brachot, for a happy marriage and may wrap the couple in a prayer shawl to symbolize their unity (6).

Following the sheva brachot, the couple shares a sip of wine.

At the end of the ceremony, the groom breaks a glass by stomping on it (7). The guests shout, “Mazel tov!” (Congratulations!) Interpretations of this well-known custom include a reference to the fragility of human relationships, a loud noise to drive away evil spirits and a break with the past.

Some couples choose to enjoy yichud, retreating to a quiet space to reflect on the commitment they have made before joining their guests. The reception features lots of dancing and gestures honoring the couple, including carrying each on a chair above the guests while everyone celebrates around them (8).

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One of a Kind Central Ohio venues with a little something extra to offer

BY EMMA FRANKART HENTERLY Everyone wants their wedding to stand out, and who can blame them? This day is among the biggest days in a couple’s shared life, so it only makes sense that it should be memorable in its uniqueness. And while the personal details of your day—from carrying an heirloom handkerchief as your “something old” to an impeccably choreographed first dance—will make your day unique in its own right, a one-of-a-kind venue can help take things to the next level.

A Piece of History Head to Delaware to host your wedding in The Barn at Stratford. Built in 1848, the structure was most recently used as an auction house for Garths from 1948 to 2015.

It was converted to an event venue and educational facility the following year.

Also on the property, says venue manager Connie Hoffman, is the historic Meeker House, a two-story brick building built in

1820 that now serves as a museum and a space for brides to dress on their big day.

History buffs who want to offer their guests a special treat can rent the museum by making a donation to the Delaware County Historical Society, which owns and operates the facility, allowing guests to take docent tours during cocktail hour.

“That’s a very popular thing that we do,” Hoffman says.

This year, The Barn at Stratford started offering another feature, inspired in part by Eliza and Justin Lee, whose June 2, 2018, wedding included a surprise element coordinated by Justin’s father and Eliza.

A mutual friend of the Hoffman and the Lee families, Diane Winters, co-owns All Win Stables with her partner, Pat Allen. The pair recently acquired a former Budweiser Clydesdale, which Justin’s father and Eliza hired to draw a carriage on the big day— unbeknownst to Justin.

Winters acted as chauffer, with Allen leading the Clydesdale as an extra precaution, to deliver Eliza and her father to the outdoor ceremony.

“I don’t usually get surprises pulled off on me,” Justin says. “When she pulled around, I couldn’t believe it.” The gentle giant was a huge draw among guests, the Lees note, as well as for other couples. “Connie put pictures up,” after the wedding, Eliza says, and requests for the horse and carriage came quickly. They were back on the property within two weeks.

Next year, The Barn at Stratford will have another new element: riverfront weddings. A half-acre of land was donated to the historical society to allow for an expansion of the property’s museum, Hoffman says, and plans for a pergola or another outdoor structure are in the works to accommodate outdoor ceremonies.

“A horse-drawn carriage going over to the river would be wonderful,” Hoffman notes.

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE, Eliza and Justin Lee’s wedding at The Barn at Stratford included a surprise horse-drawn carriage. (Sanchez Studio)

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main event reception Furry Friends Animals are, of course, the main attraction at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

For couples who host their weddings there, those same animals provide an exclusive experience unlike any other in Central Ohio.

“When you book your wedding at the zoo, included are our animals that visit during your cocktail hour,” says wedding group sales representative Amanda Januzzi. “It’s one of the aspects that makes our location unique.”

She’s referring to the zoo’s animal ambassadors—special critters that make guest appearances at various zoo events. While there’s no guarantee as to which animals will show up at your event, due to their various schedules and availability, the most popular and common visitors include baby kangaroos and cats, sloths and penguins. “They’re dressed for the occasion, so of course we try to get them there,” Januzzi says.

The animal ambassadors were the main reason that Stow residents Courtney and Mike Marsden chose to wed at the zoo, which they had never even visited until they started searching for wedding venues.

“We are from the Northeast Ohio area, so our local zoos are in Cleveland and Akron,” Courtney says. “We only looked at Cleve-

Animal ambassador visits, such as the baby snow leopards at Courtney and Mike Marsden’s wedding, are included in each wedding package at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. (Brett Loves Elle Photography)

Indoor and outdoor options available 1777 East Broad Street | www.fpconservatory.org 614.715.8100 | eventsales@fpconservatory.org

Kismet Visuals

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land as a potential venue. Don’t get me wrong; the Cleveland Zoo has a lot to offer, but the animal experience at the Columbus Zoo really made it stand out!”

At the Columbus Zoo, the animal ambassadors visit for 30 minutes, Januzzi explains.

They first meet privately with the newlyweds for portraits before joining guests during the cocktail hour. “Our guests loved getting to see the animals … people still talk to us about how the penguin entered and did a beeline to the bar!” Courtney says.

Another perk of the Columbus Zoo for the Marsdens was that the Africa Event Center overlooks the African savanna exhibit. “[Our guests] thought the landscape was beautiful and could not believe how neat it was to see animals walking around as the backdrop during the ceremony and cocktail hour,” Courtney says.

Also available for weddings is the option to add on a 30-minute giraffe feeding experience for an additional fee, says Januzzi. “Keepers will bring the giraffes over to a special section of the patio of the Africa Event Center, so guests don’t have to go anywhere other than the actual venue itself. And then they get to feed the giraffes off the patio.”

Couples who opt to hold their events in the zoo’s other venues—the Lakeside Pavilion and Water’s Edge Boardwalk—aren’t able to include the giraffe experience, but their guests do get the bonus of walking through the zoo to get to the venue, allowing them to view some of the animals en route.

And at Water’s Edge, couples can rent the carousel for guests to use after the zoo closes. “That’s a neat additional thing for your guests to do while they’re here,” Jannuzi says.

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Down to a Science “A lot of times when people choose COSI as a venue, they’re looking for one of two options,” says event sales manager Savannah Ranz. “They’re looking for the museum side—so something interactive, like having a cocktail hour in one of our exhibits or a custom planetarium show for the ceremony— or they’re looking for that view of the city.”

COSI’s position along the Scioto River affords a dramatic view of the LeVeque Tower and other noteworthy Downtown Columbus buildings, but it’s the museum’s offerings that really set the venue apart.

The planetarium, which seats 211, is an ideal spot for a ceremony to remember.

There, couples work with the theater technician to create a custom show.

“You can decide, I want the sun to rise as we walk down the aisle, or I want two asteroids to collide at our first kiss,” Ranz says. “And we

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UNIQUE ELEMENTS

Not every venue can offer treetop accommodations or a Clydesdale, but that doesn’t mean they should be overlooked. Check out these additional venues with inimitable attributes all their own: The basement of The Athletic Club of Columbus is ideal for after-parties, thanks to its two-lane bowling alley, billiards and ping pong tables.

There’s a full bar with a food menu there to help the celebration continue.

For Buckeyes fans, The Blackwell Inn’s proximity to the ’Shoe is unmatched. Located on Ohio State University’s campus, the hotel and wedding venue is a hop, skip and a jump from the Bucks’ home turf—perfect for cocktail hour photos.

Head southeast, to Nelsonville, to host your wedding in the historic Stuart’s Opera House. Built in 1879, the facility recently underwent a $4 million capital campaign that enabled a beautifully renovated lobby, catering kitchen and more.

The elegance and architecture of the Ohio Statehouse is unique in Columbus, but its aesthetics aren’t the only draw. After all, where else can you get married in the same building where Ohio’s legislators regularly convene?

A view of Ohio Stadium from the top of a parking structure near The Blackwell Inn, where Devyn and David Reing hosted their reception. (Sanchez Studio)

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can pull up any night sky that’s ever happened in Columbus. So if there’s a date that’s of significance—like the day they got engaged, the day they met—we can pull that night sky up.”

Cocktail hour can take place in any exhibit space except the American Museum of Natural History galleries, meaning drinks on the Progress exhibit’s Main Street or hors d’oeuvres among the colorful Ocean exhibit’s fountains are easily arranged. “Guests can experience everything that they’d be able to experience in an exhibit during the day,” Ranz says.

For dinner, the atrium—the central room with the high-wire unicycle and swinging pendulum—is a popular spot, Ranz says.

“One thing that’s fun in this space is we have our glass elevator, so we can take brides and grooms up a back way to the third floor.

Then, for their grand entrance, they can come down in that glass elevator.”

If you’re still looking for something extra, couples can arrange for COSI’s Science Carts—portable science demonstrations that range from basketball-playing rats to chemistry experiments—to be available during cocktail hour or open dancing at the reception, Ranz says.

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In the Treetops While The Grand Barn at The Mohicans in Glenmont is a beautiful venue, the property gets most of its individuality from the tiny treehouse cabins scattered around it.

The first treehouses, built by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet’s Treehouse Masters, sparked property owners Kevin and Laura Mooney to invest in this interesting style of accommodations. The Mohicans currently has six treehouses, with more on the way.

“We’ll continue to build treehouses,” Laura says. “We’ve been averaging one a year.”

The Moonlight treehouse, built in 2016, is a favorite among newlyweds. “It has, I guess, a romantic feel [down] to the fabrics and the design inside,” says Laura, who does the all of the interior design herself.

The newest treehouse, called the Tin Shed in a nod both to its corrugated metal exterior and a favorite Portland haunt of one of the Mooneys’ sons, is accessed via a 25-foot, steel spiral staircase and a swaying, 100-foot suspension bridge.

Other treehouses include the Little Red and White Oak, both built by Nelson for Treehouse Masters; the Nest, designed by renowned treehouse builder Roderick Romero; and the Old Pine, which was built with 100 percent reclaimed materials and has a charming wooden swing dangling under it—perfect for newlyweds’ portraits.

The treehouses can accommodate up to 20 guests all together; four cabins on the property offer an additional 40-odd beds.

(More guests can stay at the nearby Mohican State Park Lodge, which is about 30 minutes away and accessible via a shuttle service that The Mohicans can arrange for a fee.)

For added convenience, the Mooneys have a store room full of rentable décor such as vintage luggage, birdcages, cameras and more—everything you might want for a rustic wedding in the woods.

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Honoring Heritage Your wedding is a reflection of you as a couple. Shouldn’t the traditions you incorporate be personalized, too?

BY JESSICA SALERNO In addition to celebrating a couple’s new life together, weddings hold special meaning because of the many traditions that form the day. Couples looking to incorporate traditions from their culture should choose rituals and customs that make sense for them and their families.

Sometimes traditions are altered or reinvented. For Sheela and Ryan Jorgenson, this meant interweaving aspects from her native Ghana into their July 2 wedding ceremony at St. Catharine Church just east of Bexley.

In addition to playing Ghanaian wedding songs at their reception at Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph, Sheela asked her sister to give a traditional Ghanaian welcome to the guests.

“You call on God and your ancestors to come bless the occasion,” Sheela explains, adding that the welcome also includes pour-

ing water or gin and schnapps on the ground during the invocation. “She was able to do it so well, and we did feel like we had all of those ancestors with us in that moment,” Sheela says. “I felt it was very solemn but showed everyone something. Even guests who didn’t know anything about Ghanaian culture had a little sense of what the tradition was.”

Sheela says part of the wedding ceremony custom in Ghana is knocking on the home of the bride’s elders to ask for her hand in marriage. In lieu of that tradition, the couple traveled to Ghana in 2017, where Ryan had the chance to meet Sheela’s grandmother and give her a gift of gin, as is the custom.

Also while in Ghana, Sheela had a shoemaker cover her wedding shoes in ceremonial kente cloth—a brightly colored material used to make traditional Ghanaian garb of the same name—since she wouldn’t be

wearing the complete kente attire on her wedding day.

Sheela encourages couples to consider what traditions they connect with most and then think about how those fit within the day.

“The kente cloth is the ceremonial cloth and an important piece of fabric,” she says.

“It felt very regal to be dressed in it as a child, and I wondered how I would feel not having an outfit made in it. I made peace [with not] doing the full-on outfit; instead I made a compromise. Try to find creative ways to incorporate things so you’re not butchering the tradition, but you’re honoring it.”

When considering what wedding traditions made sense to incorporate from his Persian background, Eamon Hai says he relied on his parents’ help for his October 2017 wedding to Annie (Sanders) Hai at The Vault.

Eamon Hai participated in a Persian reception game before he and wife Annie Hai cut their cake.

(Derk’s Works Photography)

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ABOVE, Sheela Jorgenson’s sister gives a traditional Ghanaian welcome at Sheela and Ryan’s reception (Christopher Keels Photographer); RIGHT, Reena and Martin Tam’s haldi (top) and tea (bottom) ceremonies (both Style & Story).

“For us, it was nice to be able to learn from my parents as they were offering suggestions,” he says.

Eamon’s mother offered to do a Persian dessert table, which typically incorporates a great deal of symbolism. For example, sugar-coated almonds represent the love of the married couple: sweet on the outside, but a lot of substance on the inside.

The Hais also chose to incorporate the Persian knife dance, an element of the cakecutting ceremony in which the mother of the bride will take the knife and start dancing with it in classical Persian style. It’s then the job of the groom to get the knife back from his new mother-in-law. She passes the knife to other women in the wedding party and other guests while the groom dances with each person.

“It’s different for every situation,” Eamon says. “If someone has a lot of knowledge and passion about their own traditions and wants to incorporate as many of those things as they can, both partners need to have an open conversation about it.”

In discussions about what they would want from their day, Reena and Martin Tam wanted each of their parents to feel connected to their own cultures—Indian and Chinese, respectively—during the wedding.

“We wanted to symbolize that we are in this marriage to respect each other’s cultures and traditions and to show they are active in our lives,” Reena says. “Our families got together and talked about what they wanted

to have during the wedding, and it was really nice to have that close communication.”

The two were married at the Greater Columbus Convention Center on Sept. 3, 2017, and had a traditional Hindu wedding ceremony along with a Chinese tea ceremony, during which the groom serves tea to the bride’s parents as a sign of respect.

The night before the wedding, they held a garba ceremony that celebrates the Hindu goddess Durga. Reena describes it as a time for celebration when both sides of the family come together for the first time to dance and eat.

Another meaningful moment for Reena was two days before the wedding; this is when, in Hindu culture, the bride and groom’s families put yellow turmeric paste on the couple’s faces in a pre-wedding ritual called a haldi ceremony. Typically, families perform the haldi in their respective homes.

“But since Martin’s family doesn’t do that

we had both sides of the family come over to my house, and they were able to put the yellow paste on me and afterwards had his family and friends and some of my family put the yellow paste on him,” she says.

“Because his family doesn’t do that traditionally, it was a nice way to incorporate everyone together.”

Reena notes that because her and Martin’s marriage was interracial, it was important to them that they find a balance and respect for the cultures of both families.

“You, as a couple, should decide what you want and what you see as important and see in your similarities and differences,” Reena says. “It depends on how your parents are—if they feel strongly about continuing traditions—and how you fit that into your wedding. But ultimately, figure out what your priorities are and what your parents’ priorities are, and find a common balance and respect for what you want that day.”

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main event reception

A dramatic tablescape at Ariana and Eric Harris’ wedding (Style & Story)

Detail-Oriented Rental companies help you put the finishing touch on your reception décor.

BY SAM KAYUHA At almost every wedding, tables and chairs have to be arranged. They take up the most space, are the most noticeable part of the event and are maybe the most important.

But they are hardly ever the most impressive aspect of wedding decoration.

While the macro details of a wedding are usually front-of-mind for couples, it is the micro where personality can shine through most brightly—which means selections should not be saved for the last minute. For some couples, they might even be a top priority.

The choices for place settings, centerpieces, linens and backdrops can seem nearly limitless, but there are plenty of resources in Central Ohio to guide couples through the decision-making process.

Tony Cook and the team at Taylor Rental Party Plus rent out almost anything imaginable for special events: tables and chairs, linens, décor, dance floors, tableware and lighting, of course, but also inflatable 82

COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

playhouses, food and bar service items, and party machines serving cotton candy, popcorn and sno-cones.

Cook recommends approaching a potential rental company as early as possible in the wedding-planning process.

“I always go with ‘the earlier, the better’ when it comes to weddings,” he says. “To be sure our customers get exactly what they want, I recommend they begin the rental [reservation] process as early as possible.”

The company works with engaged clients who are at all levels of preparedness, and Cook says that even last-minute or emergency requests can sometimes be accommodated, depending on inventory and staffing levels.

The first step for Taylor Rental, after the information-gathering process, is the development of a computer-aided design, taking the guesswork out of the visualization process.

“Some people know exactly what they want, and others don’t even know where

to start,” Cook says. “We do our best to give them as much information as possible, so they understand their options.”

Working with rental companies to prepare for the big day is crucial to making sure that all the pieces are in place, and both rental companies and married couples agree that it is best to go in to the initial conversations with an idea of what is desired.

Ariana and Eric Harris, who wed in March 2018 at the Columbus Museum of Art, rented linens and tableware from Connie Duglin Linen and Event Source, respectively, both of which were found through their wedding planner.

The Harrises worked with Event Source to decide what to rent, but they knew exactly what they wanted by the time they moved on to Connie Duglin. Ariana’s advice to other couples? Think long and hard about the overall look and feel you want to achieve before going in to the rental process.

“Try to go in having an idea of what you want [so] the process won’t be as overwhelming as far as choosing the perfect linen or tableware,” Harris says.

Beyond the necessities offered through most rental companies, specialty services can bring a taste of extravagance to your event.

Rock on Ice provides ice sculptures, along with carved pumpkins, sand sculpting and food art. Master carver Gregory Butauski has been at it for 25 years, and his story has its origins in his years at the University of Akron.

“I was walking to class one day and saw a student carving ice on campus, and I started asking questions. The next day I switched majors from engineering to culinary arts,” he says.

While he competes in national ice sculpting competitions and has created sculptures as high as 30 feet, Butauski says most couples prefer a classic look, one that can incorporate names or initials, for their weddings.

“Sometimes they turn it into an ice luge to pour liquor drinks through,” he adds. A fun twist on that display: a shrimp-cocktailfilled tower of ice, as Stephanie and Nathaniel Marks had at their Aug. 8 wedding. Their venue, the Hilton Columbus Downtown, arranged the display, which also included raw oysters.

Butauski recommends initiating the process for an ice sculpture a few months out from your wedding date, though he says some work requires as much as a year to prepare. For the most part, the actual carving of the piece takes four to six hours, though custom or larger orders can take longer.

Carvings start at $375 and can go into tens of thousands of dollars, though Butauski says that the cost for weddings averages around $450.

Butauski has carved giant lizards down to the scales and mermaids with water splashing around them—things do not have to get that complicated, but it might be a comfort to know they can. That goes for almost everything one could want for their wedding; for a price, things can be as extravagant as desired. But elegance doesn’t have to cost a lot, and there are plenty of renters around who can arrange a tasteful and affordable rental haul for the big day.

TOP, Stephanie and Nathaniel Marks served shrimp cocktail and oysters from a tower of ice (both Aimee Thomas Photography); BOTTOM, Ariana and Eric Harris hired two companies to provide their décor and linens (Style & Story).

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Prep Time How to ensure smooth setup (and teardown)

BY HEATHER LOFY

Marry at the Mansion Our historic Granville mansion is perfect for intimate gatherings.

The Fieldhouse can accomodate hundreds of guests.

52 acre estate with outdoor gardens and great lawn.

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Your good friend is getting married, so you volunteer to help her do some setup at the wedding venue. But when the end of the night comes, the bride and groom leave with no plan in place for teardown.

So what do you do? You could clean up yourself, or alert family members or the bridal party that they need to jump in.

That’s why setup and teardown logistics—both for ceremonies and receptions—are imperative to determine long before the big day.

When you book an event space, one of the first questions you should ask is whether the venue handles setup and teardown, or if you’ll be responsible for it. At the Makoy Center, a Hilliard wedding venue, the staff will take care of everything for the couple.

“They’ll have hair, makeup, pre-pictures and more important things than worrying about setup and teardown,” says Clay Daniel, general manager of the Makoy Center.

“We have an eye for detail … so we have the experience that the couple may not. That attention to detail is key.”

Also verify if you can drop off or even set out items before the wedding day. At the Columbus Museum of Art, there’s a fee based on how early you want to set up. But you can ensure your decorations will be safe from any elements.

“One really cool thing is our dock is in a garage, since we are an art museum,” says

Susan Brehm, director of event sales at the Columbus Museum of Art. “If it is snowing or raining, your décor isn’t ruined, because you’re pulling into the garage.”

Teardown time is also key—many locations ask that all decorations and items a couple brings in be out of the space the evening of the wedding. Other venues, like Heritage Golf Club, aim to make things a little easier on the newlyweds.

“We want to make sure that our brides and grooms don’t have anything to worry about at the end of the night, so we give them the opportunity to pick up everything—from their centerpieces to any other décor that they have—up until the following Tuesday. The only thing that we ask of them is that they pick up their gifts the night of,” says private events director Sierra Ridenour. “We want to make sure that we are the ones packing up everything for them so they don’t have to worry about it.

Most importantly—whether you’re taking care of setup and teardown or delegating it to a friend or venue staff—ensure a plan is in place and everyone knows that plan.

“When the day comes, I don’t want there to be disappointment,” says Brehm. “I want them to know what is going on.”

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER

Add these questions to your checklist when you talk setup and teardown with your venue: • What happens if we go over our booked time?

• Can we bring in outside rentals?

• Who will light candles or place centerpieces?

• When should I arrange for vendor delivery (cake, flowers, etc.) on the day of?

Guests at Katie and Dean Nusbaum’s wedding signed puzzle pieces instead of a guest book. (Sanchez Studio)

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main event spotlight

Sarah and Andrew Schreiber’s June 23, 2018, wedding at the Columbus Museum of Art (Nicole Dixon Photographic)

Versatile Elegance A variety of stunning spaces at the Columbus Museum of Art leave little to be desired.

BY MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON When the Columbus Museum of Art added a new wing in 2015, one of the architect’s focuses was creating space for weddings and other events. As a longstanding attraction in the community, the museum naturally draws couples looking for an interesting wedding venue, says Susan Brehm, CMA’s director of event sales. Thanks to the renovations, couples have a lot of choices within the museum.

“It’s a destination. We’re top of mind for people planning events,” Brehm says.

“There’s something very intimate about the space. We also have so much flexibility.”

The variety of spaces means couples can get married in one room, have cocktails in a second area and host their reception in a third location.

The Pavilion, the largest space in the museum, can be laid out in numerous ways depending on a couple’s focus. The room features wood floors, skylights and floor-toceiling windows that overlook the Sculpture 86

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Garden behind the museum. Many couples choose to use those windows as a backdrop for their head table. The space, which can accommodate 320 for a seated dinner, looks good with minimal ornamentation but also can accommodate chandeliers, large floral swags and extravagant decorations, Brehm says. “It’s just an elegant, versatile space,” she says. “It’s a blank canvas.”

Many couples find that the Derby Court’s traditional elements, including limestone walls from the original 1931 building, abundant skylights and a slate floor, create a great setting for their wedding ceremony. “It has a very classic look,” Brehm says. The room, which is adjacent to the Pavilion and the Broad Street Lobby, can accommodate 175 for a seated dinner or 200 for cocktails or a theater-style ceremony setup.

The Broad Street Lobby works well for a cocktail space or as an exit for couples who want to leave their reception with a little bit of fanfare. The grand lobby features an

intricately painted and gilt ceiling, as well as limestone archways.

Couples wishing to wed outdoors often select the Sculpture Garden. The space provides options for members of the wedding party to descend a staircase or walk up a more traditional aisle. Located off of the Schokko Art Café, the garden also can serve as a spot for an outdoor cocktail hour or reception.

Earlier this year, the museum hired an in-house chef who prepares food for special events. Couples also have the option of choosing from the museum’s list of approved caterers. Couples appreciate the variety that’s now available to them, Brehm says.

Another perk that appeals to couples is the large dressing rooms for members of the bridal party. When the museum was renovated, the staff made sure the design included space for wedding parties to get ready and store their belongings.

The museum assigns an event specialist to everyone who books an event. That person works with the couple throughout the entire planning process and is there on the day of the event, Brehm says. Staff members are trained to handle all the details. “I don’t want the couple worrying about anything,” she says. “I want them focused on being together and enjoying the moment. They need to know we’ve got it all under control.”

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12298 CROTON RD • CROTON, OH 43013 • 740.893.8001 Info@IronGateEquestrianCenter.com • www.IrongateEquestrianCenter.com

Reception Guide

COMPILED BY RYLAN LEE

Jennifer and Nathan Bruggeman share their first dance in the Palm House at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. (AddVision)

We’ve got you covered with details on more than 180 Central Ohio venues.

Visit cbuswedmag.com/Receptions for even more information on these facilities.

DOWNTOWN

Brewery District, Downtown, Franklinton, German Village, Olde Towne East The Athletic Club of Columbus 136 E. Broad St., Columbus; 614-221-3344 accolumbus.com/weddings An exquisite wedding venue in the heart of Downtown Columbus. !!!!! = $ ' >

boathouserestaurantoh.com At the confluence of the Olentangy and Scioto rivers sits the perfect location for weddings, with a full-service events team. Four spacious banquet rooms have expansive floor-to-ceiling glass windows and panoramic views of the city. !!!!! = + ' >

The Bluestone 583 E. Broad St., Columbus; 614-884-4646 liveatthebluestone.com The Bluestone is a newly renovated, 120-year-old church that boasts three diverse levels, seven bars, soaring stained glass windows and a gracious outdoor patio. !!!!! = + $ ' >

The Capital Club and DoubleTree Suites (Columbus Downtown) 50 S. Front St., Columbus; 614-228-4600 facebook.com/doubletreecolumbusdowntown This vintage Hollywood-style venue offers unique settings. From classic chic to posh party to something in between, they’ll create and customize an experience that’s as unique as your love, your style and your budget. !!! = + $ ' >

The Boat House at Confluence Park 679 W. Spring St., Columbus; 614-469-0000

The Columbus Athenaeum 32 N. Fourth St., Columbus; 614-222-6338

columbusmeetings.com Historic landmark with 10 event spaces.

Inclusive wedding packages add value to the bottom line. Clients can customize their bar based on what their friends and family drink. Grand spaces make for a beautiful backdrop. !!!!! = $ ' > Columbus Museum of Art 480 E. Broad St., Columbus; 614-353-6631 columbusmuseum.org Dramatic architectural details, access to more than 15 galleries, an outdoor balcony overlooking the north sculpture garden and a world-renowned art collection makes this the ideal location for your “I do’s.” !!!!! = + $ ' ( Copious 520 S. High St., Columbus; 614-657-5565 copiouscolumbus.com Your day is exclusively yours here, along with their undivided attention to make your wishes come true. From classic chic to posh

Maximum reception size (seated): = Ceremony space available ) Outside caterers allowed/negotiable + Outdoor space available > Minimum spend/guest count required ! 99 people or fewer $ Rental fee # May bring outside alcohol !! 100 to 149 people ' Caterer onsite/exclusive offsite caterer < No alcohol allowed !!! 150 to 199 people Columbus Weddings ( Choose caterer from approved caterer list [no symbols] Information not available !!!! 200 to 249 people partner vendor !!!!! 250 people or more The information in these listings is based on details provided by the venues involved and staff research. A listing does not necessarily mean that Columbus Weddings recommends the venue. Submit listing updates and corrections at cbuswedmag.com/RGsubmit.

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party to something in between, they’ll create an experience as unique as you. !!!!! = + $ ' > COSI 333 W. Broad St., Columbus; 614-228-2674 cosi.org The prime riverfront setting, coupled with magnificent architecture, world-class exhibits and a mission to inspire, make COSI unmatched in originality and value.

After more than 40 years, they have events down to a science. !!!!! = + $ ' Crowne Plaza Columbus Downtown 33 E. Nationwide Blvd., Columbus; 614-461-4100 ihg.com Inclusive wedding packages available; no off-site catering !!!! = $ ' > Cultural Arts Center 139 W. Main St., Columbus; 614-636-3278 culturalartscenteronline.org Featuring a beautiful garden courtyard and gallery space for an intimate summer wedding that you may custom design to fit your dreams; ceremonies available indoors or out. Not only is it artsy, it is urban-modern. !!! = + $ ) # Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus; 614-715-8100 fpconservatory.org Four unique venues, including stunning indoor and outdoor garden settings, create timeless memories of your wedding. !!!!! = + $ ' ( > Galbreath Pavilion at Ohio Theatre 39 E. State St., Columbus; 614-469-1045 capa.com/venues/venue-rental Outside catering is welcome with no additional cost; tables and chairs available for additional rental fee !!! = $ ) > Germania Singing and Sport Society 543 S. Front St., Columbus; 614-461-8095 germaniacolumbus.org Enjoy Old-World charm and a little bit of Germany in the Brewery District at Germania. !!!! = + $ ' > Goodale Park Shelterhouse 120 W. Goodale St., Columbus; 614-645-3337 columbus.gov Conveniently located close to Downtown in historic Goodale Park, this facility has the option to reserve an outdoor ceremony location at the picturesque gazebo located next to a peaceful pond. ! = + $ ) > # Grange Insurance Audubon Center 505 W. Whittier St., Columbus; 614-436-6369 grange.audubon.org If you are interested in a venue that lets in sunlight, honors nature and is true to a sustainable mindset, consider the Grange Insurance Audubon Center, conveniently located in the heart of the city. !!!! = + $ ' # Graystone Wine Cellar 544 S. Front St., Columbus; 614-228-2332 graystonecolumbus.com

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main event reception guide Visit Columbus’ most unique wedding venue, located in the hand-hewn vaults of the historic Schlee Brewery. They offer fair and straightforward pricing, with quality menus and attentive service. !! = ' > Greater Columbus Convention Center 400 N. High St., Columbus; 614-827-2500 columbusconventions.com Newly expanded and renovated, the GCCC offers beautiful ballrooms with colorful, customizable lighting, catering by Levy in collaboration with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, attached parking and hotels across from the Short North and Arena District. !!!!! = + $ ' Greek Orthodox Cathedral 555 N. High St., Columbus; 614-224-9020 greekcathedral.com Couples can choose from four preferred caterers and bring their own alcohol. !!!!! + $ ( # Hawk Galleries 153 E. Main St., Columbus; 614-848-4700 hawkgalleries.com/cameron-mitchell-premier-events An airy, light-filled, 5,000-square-foot contemporary space accented with 100-year-old character—including tin-plated ceilings and beautifully displayed art—Hawk Galleries provides a unique, artistic ambiance for weddings and receptions. ! = $ ' # The Hickory Room at Wolf’s Ridge Brewing 215 N. Fourth St., Columbus; 614-429-3926

The Ivory Room was the perfect spot for Sarah and Andrew Schreiber’s reception. (Nicole Dixon Photographic)

Photo Credit Katie Lee Photography

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PH PH HOT HOTO TO BY Y RYA RYAN HO RYAN HOLLAN LLAN LAN AND PH AND PHOTOGRAPH OTOG OGRAPH PH HY

wolfsridgebrewing.com Beautful, downtown event space with urban vibe ! = $ ' > High Line Car House 550 S. High St., Columbus; 614-882-7323 highlinecarhouse.com Historic brick walls, high beam ceilings and windows create a setting you’ll love. Their team ensures that every detail is thoughtfully considered, so your whole event is just as beautiful as your venue. !!!!! = + $ ' > Hilton Columbus Downtown Hotel 401 N. High St., Columbus; 614-484-5265 facebook.com/hiltoncolumbusdowntown Centrally located in the Short North Arts District, this modern design is the perfect place for your guests to experience Columbus for your wedding weekend. !!!!! = ' ( > Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection 50 W. Broad St., Columbus; 614-224-9500 hotellevequecolumbus.com Let the stars bear witness to your wedded bliss. At Hotel LeVeque, your level of sophisticated radiance is limited only by the boundaries of your imagination. !$')> Huntington Park 330 Huntington Park Ln., Columbus; 614-462-5250 clippersbaseball.com A one-of-a-kind experience: Exchange your vows at home plate after your bridal party enters the ceremony through the dugouts of the Columbus Clippers. Reception is just a few steps away, overlooking the Columbus skyline. !!!!! = + $ ' > Hyatt Regency Columbus 350 N. High St., Columbus; 614-463-1234 columbusregency.hyatt.com The Downtown hotel offers multiple ballroom and event spaces.

EXPERIENCE OUR NEW MODERNIZED INTERIOR SET IN A PICTURESQUE LOCATION Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Spaces • Grand Ballroom • On-site Catering 101 Mill St, Suite 300, Gahanna

• 614.416.8188

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TO HAVE AND TO HOLD AT OUR NEWLY REMODELED HOTEL

The Ivory Room 2 Miranova Pl., Columbus; 614-221-2347 ivoryroom.cameronmitchellpremierevents.com Located in Downtown Columbus, The Ivory Room is a chic, modern space with a stunning panoramic view of the city. !!!!! = $ ' > Juniper 580 N. Fourth St., Columbus; 614-464-9999 juniperrooftop.com This rooftop location has a retractable glass roof and walls, an unparalleled view of the Downtown skyline, spectacular culinary options and excellence at every turn. !!!! = + $ ' > Kelton House Museum & Garden 586 E. Town St., Columbus; 614-464-2022 keltonhouseevents.com An extraordinary site for ceremonies and receptions. Imagine your storybook wedding in a beautiful Victorian setting. Their garden pergola will frame you as you take your vows and provide images to remember. !! = + $ ) #

Our beautiful ballroom, premier catering services, and on-site expert planners make us the perfect setting for your wedding.

Say, “I do,” at the modern and elegant Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus-Dublin™

Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus-Dublin 5100 Upper Metro Place Dublin, Ohio 43017 614-602-0114 columbusdublin.embassysuites.com *Service of alcohol subject to state and local laws. Must be of legal drinking age. © 2018 Hilton. ™ indicates a trademark of Hilton.

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main event reception guide The Kitchen 231 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus; 614-225-8940 thekitchencolumbus.com The Kitchen’s event spaces are romantic and versatile, offering a stunning backdrop for your celebration. Their team takes care of each detail for everything from bridal showers and rehearsal dinners to wedding ceremonies and receptions. !!! = $ ' > L.A. Catering & Event Center 670 Harmon Ave., Columbus; 614-358-5252 la-catering.com L.A. Catering, a division of LifeCare Alliance, offers full-service buffets, corporate gatherings, picnics, weddings and receptions with priceless memories. !!!!! = + $ '

• Full Service Venue with In-house Catering & Free Parking • Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Options with Bridal Suites • Indoor Receptions with Private Entrances and Restrooms

• Day of Coordinator Included • Open Plan Rooms, Large Dance Floors, Built In Bars & Custom Lighting • Emerald Room 120- 450 Guests • Burgundy Room 60-250 Guests • Mezzanine 35-100 Guests

5462 CENTER ST. • HILLIARD, OH 43026 614-777-1211 • WWW.MAKOY.COM

Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph 620 N. High St., Columbus; 614-456-7844 lemeridiencolumbus.com Celebrate your vows while expressing individuality at Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph.

Experience art-inspired, chic design with impeccable culinary options from the Guild House.

Discover the center-stone gem in a community of beauty and vitality. !!! = $ ' > Lincoln Theatre Ballroom 769 E. Long St., Columbus; 614-719-6696 lincolntheatrecolumbus.com Newly renovated and restored ballroom in the historic Lincoln Theatre; outside catering welcome with no additional fees !!!!! = $ ) > # Lindey’s Restaurant 169 E. Beck St., Columbus; 614-228-4343 lindeys.com Full-service venue for receptions, rehearsal dinners and bridal showers ! + $ ' >

We Do. W D

The Loft at dock580 580 N. Fourth St., Columbus; 614-464-9999 dock580.com Unique, distinct and intimate, this historic location offers a 1,500-square-foot, twotier outdoor patio, loads of natural light and original brick and steel from 1929. !!!! = + $ ' > # North Bank Park Pavilion 311 W. Long St., Columbus; 614-645-3337 columbus.gov Located in the Arena District with a premier riverfront location on the bank of the Scioto, this venue offers breathtaking views of Downtown and contemporary design.

It’s fully customizable to make your big day unforgettable. !!!! = + $ ) > # Ohio Statehouse 1 Capitol Sq., Columbus; 614-466-2251 ohiostatehouse.org The Ohio Statehouse is available to serve as your perfect wedding location. The package includes a wedding coordinator, security, parking, tables, chairs and equipment. Make a statement—make your wedding historic at the Ohio Statehouse. !!!!! = + $ ' ( Red Brick Occasions Event Center 118 E. Main St., Columbus; 614-868-0025

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or 614-863-9281 redbrickoccasions.com Urban, industrial space with brick walls, hardwood floors, gold-framed mirrors, chandeliers and soft lighting that can be styled as casual, rustic or elegant Renaissance Columbus Downtown 50 N. Third St., Columbus; 614-228-5050 renaissancecolumbus.com Stylish design; flawless service; imaginative food !!!!! = + $ ' ) > Schmidt’s Banquet and Meeting Haus 240 E. Kossuth St., Columbus; 614-449-4038 schmidthaus.com Two beautiful banquet rooms located above Schmidt’s Restaurant. Meals are served buffet-style; four individual menus available. A single chair lift to the party rooms is available; a professional, yet personal, atmosphere. !! = $ > Sheraton Columbus Hotel at Capitol Square 75 E. State St., Columbus; 614-365-4586 sheratoncolumbuscapitolsquare.com A beautiful Downtown venue located in the heart of the city, overlooking the Ohio Statehouse. !!!!! = + ' ) >

The bridal party looks on during a speech at Jacqueline and Corbin Ricker’s Ohio Statehouse reception.

(Derk’s Works Photography)

Southern Theatre 21 E. Main St., Columbus; 614-469-1045 capa.com/venues/southern-theatre Historic 1896 theater available for ceremonies and receptions; outside catering welcome with no additional fees !! = $ ) >

Style & Story Creative Photography

An Unforgettable Experience...

200 Degree View overlooking Golf Course and Outdoor Ceremony Garden Exceptional Culinary Experience

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Stunning Outdoor Ceremony Garden with Rock Waterfall Backdrop

7383 Scioto Pkwy, Powell, OH 43065

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main event reception guide Station 67 Event Center 379 W. Broad St., Columbus; 614-564-9530 facebook.com/station67oh A beautiful, historic place that combines an old train station with a modern space that’s perfect for a ceremony and reception under the Downtown skyline. !!!! = + $ ' > Strongwater Private Events 401 W. Town St., Columbus; 614-928-3170 events.strongwatercolumbus.com This multiroom space exudes an urban warehouse aesthetic. The venue includes private event entrances, day-of coordination support, wedding suites, ample parking, indoor and outdoor ceremony space and exposed brick around every corner. !!!! = + $ ' ( > Taylor Mansion 1400 E. Broad St., Columbus; 614-537-3684 taylormansioncolumbus.com Historic Downtown mansion; great for ceremonies; picturesque grounds The Vault 35 E. Gay St., Columbus; 614-225-1000 vaultbanquets.com The Vault is truly one of Columbus’ bestkept secrets. Your guests will depart knowing they have experienced something very special. !!!!! = $ ) > The Venue at dock580 580 N. Fourth St., Columbus; 614-464-9999 dock580.com This historic location with a courtyard and

Shelby and Nicklaus Jurden’s best man included a rap in his speech during their reception at The Athletic Club of Columbus. (AddVision)

T he ReceptionHouse AT R AY M O N D M E M O R I A L

You and your guests will enjoy an unforgettable celebration in our remodeled Reception House ballroom situated on a picturesque golf course. The venue is ideal for your indoor and/or outdoor ceremony and reception. Please call to arrange a tour so you can see, touch and taste why more bride and grooms are celebrating their big day at The Reception House by Schmidt’s.

3860 Trabue Road • Columbus, OH 43228 • (614) 276-6127 • raymondreceptions.com • facebook/raymondreceptions C E N T R A L LY L O C AT E D N E A R U P P E R A R L I N G T O N , D U B L I N & H I L L I A R D

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large terrace creates a spectacular setting, coupled with outstanding food options and a terrific team that’s ready to serve you. !!! = + $ ' > # Via Vecchia Winery 485 S. Front St., Columbus; 614-893-5455 viavecchiawinery.com This Old World, functional winery and event space in the Brewery District is a unique building with exposed wood beams, brick arches and historic charm. A lighted brick alley is ideal for ceremonies. !!!!! = + $ ( > Vue Columbus 95 Liberty St., Columbus; 614-454-1877 facebook.com/vuecolumbus A modern and refreshing event venue featuring a chic reception facility in the Brewery District. The banquet hall features a beautiful outside patio space with inspiring views of historic buildings and the Columbus skyline. !!!!! = + $ ( > #

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The Westin Great Southern Columbus 310 S. High St., Columbus; 614-228-3800 westin.com/columbus Elegant, timeless and iconic—enjoy their historic ballroom, intimate hotel, locally sourced and artfully prepared cuisine, and premier service. They will handle every detail to make your day perfect. !!!!! = $ ' > YWCA Columbus 65 S. Fourth St., Columbus; 614-627-1219 eventscw.org Host your wedding in the new, stylish, intimate ballroom in a historic setting. Your event helps make it possible for the homeless women and families that the YWCA serves to rebuild their lives. !!! = $ ( #

NORTH (NEAR)

Clintonville, Short North, University District, Worthington Antrim Park Shelterhouse 5800 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus; 614-645-3337 columbus.gov With a quaint park setting, two fireplaces and a customizable space, this location is perfect for smaller weddings with up to 85 people. ! = + $ ) > # The Blackwell Inn 2110 Tuttle Park Pl., Columbus; 614-247-4000 theblackwell.com Setting a standard in romantic elegance; complete wedding services created by inhouse wedding coordinator !!!!! = + ' > Catering by Design Banquet Hall 6465 Busch Blvd., Columbus; 614-436-7391 cateringbydesign.com Large ballroom with built-in bar and space for wedding !!!!! = + ' Clintonville Woman’s Club 3951 N. High St., Columbus; 614-268-5525 clintonvillewomansclub.com Private club house in a ravine setting at not-for-profit pricing !!! = + ' > # SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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main event reception guide The Club at The Ohio State University 181 S. Oval Dr., Columbus; 614-292-2262 ohio-statefacultyclub.com On the OSU campus between the Oval and Mirror Lake Hollow; featuring large picture windows, chandeliers, a three-story spiral staircase and day-of coordinator; exclusive access to the club during your wedding !!!! = + $ ' > Crowne Plaza Columbus North-Worthington 6500 Doubletree Ave., Columbus; 614-885-1885 cpcolumbusnorth.com They can accommodate ceremonies, receptions and rehearsal dinners for up to 500 people. Their experienced, creative and dedicated staff is here to serve you and to create a day to remember for a lifetime. !!!!! = + $ ' ( > DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel ColumbusWorthington 175 Hutchinson Ave., Columbus; 614-885-3334 doubletree3.hilton.com 17,000 square feet of flexible event space; all you need under one roof for your special day !!!!! = + $ ' ) >

Indoor and outdoor options available

The Fawcett Center 2400 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus; 614-292-4021 fawcettcenter.com The Fawcett Center ballroom can seat up to 250 guests with space for a dance floor.

It offers exposed brick walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, custom lighting features and a patio for outdoor mingling. !!!!! = + $ ' > The Haimerl Center 1421 Morse Rd., Columbus; 614-267-0121 haimerlcenter.com Capacity for up to 300 for dining and dancing in 4,000 open square feet of space; rates include access to tables and chairs, plus ample free parking. !!!!! = + $ ) # Holiday Inn Columbus 7007 N. High St., Worthington; 614-436-0700 ihg.com Featuring two ballrooms, the larger of which is almost 4,000 square feet; the junior ballroom is just over 2,000 square feet. Conveniently located in central Columbus, with flexible pricing options for all budgets. !!!!! = ' > J. Liu Restaurant & Bar 6880 N. High St., Worthington; 614-888-1818 jliurestaurant.com From formal and extravagant receptions to laid-back, casual affairs, they can make your day a reality. They will translate your personal and unique vision to an event that will mark the memory of every guest. !!!! = ' ( > Marriott Columbus University Area 3100 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus; 614-549-3615 osumarriott.com Celebrate your happy day in 12,000 square feet of modern event space. The Franklin Ballroom features soaring ceilings, contem-

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porary chandeliers and seating for up to 450 guests. An intimate courtyard is available for cocktail hour. !!!!! = + $ ' >

Katie and Travis Simmons chose Worthington Hills Country Club for their ceremony and reception.

(Hillary Ferguson Photography)

The Ohio Union at Ohio State University 1739 N. High St., Columbus; 614-292-5200 ohiounion.osu.edu This beautiful venue has multiple event spaces of various sizes to meet the needs of any couple. Settled right on High Street, it has a perfect location in the city. !!!!! = + $ ' The Table 21 E. Fifth Ave., Columbus; 614-291-4555 thetablecolumbus.com A farm-to-table restaurant inspired by world flavors that works closely with farmers and urban gardeners to bring you the freshest produce. They take pride in crafting baked goods and charcuterie in-house. ! = + ' > Whetstone Park Shelterhouse 3901 N. High St., Columbus; 614-645-3337 columbus.gov Connected to the Park of Roses and featuring gorgeous garden views and two fireplaces, the venue is customizable to fit your every need and has options for outdoor ceremonies in the rose garden. !!! = + $ ) > # Worthington Hills Country Club 920 Clubview Blvd. S, Columbus; 614-885-9516 worthingtonhills.com The venue overlooks a golf course with a window around the perimeter of the

• Comfortable, elegant setting • Groups of up to 200 people • Beautiful gazebo for the perfect outdoor setting

• Plentiful menu options from casual to gourmet • Professional staff to handle your every need • Located minutes off I-71, at the Sunbury exit

1150 Wilson Rd. Sunbury, OH 43074

Tel: 740-965-3663

Alisha Yoder - ayoder@thenorthstargolfclub.com www.thenorthstargolfclub.com

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Eliza and Justin Lee’s rustic event at The Barn at Stratford included hay bale seating under a beautiful willow tree. (Sanchez Studio)

room. It’s newly updated to a neutral color scheme that will coordinate with any color. !!!!! = + $ ' >

beautiful architecture, a garden, a vineyard, a fire pit and indoor ballroom; catering, bar, linens, DJ, cake, floral centerpieces and coordinator Included !!!!! = + ' >

NORTH (FAR)

Camp Mary Orton 7925 N. High St., Columbus; 614-885-1023 campmaryorton.org Historic lodge features original wood floors, high-beamed ceiling and 14-footwide stone fireplace; terrace overlooks expansive lawn

Delaware, Lewis Center, Polaris, Powell and beyond The Barn at Stratford 2690 Stratford Rd., Delaware; 844-369-2276 barnatstratford.org The Barn at Stratford offers you the unique experience of holding your special event in an authentic 1840’s barn. !!! = + $ ) # Bridgewater Banquet & Conference Center 10561 Sawmill Pkwy., Powell; 614-734-9800 bridgewaterbanquetcenter.com Elegant and spacious; large marble foyer; bridal suites; extensive menu options Brio Tuscan Grille 1500 Polaris Pkwy., Columbus; 614-410-0310 brioitalian.com Experience a taste of Tuscany; five private rooms are perfect for showers, rehearsal dinners and receptions. !! ' Brookshire 405 Greif Pkwy., Delaware; 740-548-8188 brookshire.biz Featuring all-inclusive wedding packages, 98

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Columbus Zoo & Aquarium 4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell; 614-724-3679 columbuszoo.org Beautiful indoor and outdoor facilities accentuated by the exotic backdrop of the world’s wildlife; a truly unique wedding experience !!!!! = + $ ' > Eddie Merlot’s 1570 Polaris Pkwy., Columbus; 614-433-7307 eddiemerlots.com Multiple private dining spaces can accommodate up to 60, or rent all or part of the restaurant for larger events.

Glenross Golf Club 231 Clubhouse Dr., Delaware; 740-513-5098 glenrossgc.com This lovely, open and airy venue features stone walls and views of the golf course. !!! = + ' >

Hilton Columbus/Polaris 8700 Lyra Dr., Columbus; 614-885-1600 hilton.com AAA Four-Diamond luxury hotel, including outdoor patio with fire features; 15,000 square feet of ballroom space surrounded by 3,500 square feet of foyer space !!!!! = + ' ) > Hilton Garden Inn Columbus Polaris 8535 Lyra Dr., Columbus; 614-846-8884 columbuspolaris.hgi.com From room blocks to on-site catering and space for rehearsal dinner, they are here to help. ! = + $ ' The Jessing Center 7625 N. High St., Columbus; 614-985-2215 boscandbrie.com The Jessing Center is located on the beautiful campus of the Pontifical College Josephinum, featuring beautiful, barrel vault ceilings, a dance floor and catering by the award-winning Bosc + Brie. !!!!! $ ' # Kinsale Golf & Fitness Club 3737 Village Club Dr., Powell; 740-881-6500 golfkinsale.com The main room has hardwood floors, a large marble fireplace and French doors leading to a patio that overlooks the 18th green. !!! = + $ ' > Little Bear Golf Club 1940 Little Bear Loop, Lewis Center; 740-548-8532

littlebearvillage.com Weddings and receptions in elevated, majestic room overlooking golf course lake; first-class facility at an affordable price !!!!! = + $ ' ( Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center 100 Green Meadows Dr. S, Lewis Center; 614-880-4300 nwhotelandconferencecenter.com Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center sets the standard for romantic wedding venues in Columbus with a comprehensive array of wedding services to create a unique and intimate experience. !!!!! = + $ ' >

Fred Astaire Dance Studios 2 FREE Dance Lessons 740-368-9040

1157 Columbus Pike, Delaware OH 43015 fredastaire.com/delaware delaware fredastaire@gmail.com

Photography courtesy of KISMET VISUALS & CO.

Oakhaven Golf Club 2871 State Route 23, Delaware; 740-363-9900 oakhaven.com Featuring a spacious ballroom with a patio that overlooks the golf course Scioto Reserve Country Club 7383 Scioto Pkwy., Powell; 740-881-9082 sciotoreserve.com Outdoor ceremony garden with rock waterfall backdrop; complimentary, spacious bridal suite and groom’s quarters with all-day access; 200-degree view in ballroom overlooking golf course; on-site coordination; wedding cake included !!!!! = + $ ' ) > Swan Lake Event Center 5900 Liberty Rd., Powell; 740-833-6024 swanlakeeventcenter.com This campus-style facility offers the perfect location for spectacular ceremonies and receptions. The property is nestled on 20 wooded acres showcasing outstanding scenic views. Swan Lake offers a secluded environment with a modern, romantic feel. !!!!! = + $ ( Wedgewood Golf and Country Club 9600 Wedgewood Blvd., Powell; 614-793-9600 wedgewoodgolfcc.com The finest facilities, a friendly and attentive staff and events to suit every taste—it is all waiting for you at Wedgewood Golf & Country Club. They promise to be your exclusive, all-in-one event venue. !!!!! = + $ ' >

NORTHEAST

Easton, Gahanna, New Albany, Westerville and beyond Bent Tree Golf Club 350 Bent Tree Rd., Sunbury; 740-965-5140 ext. 3 benttreegc.com Offering all-inclusive wedding reception packages; the banquet room features a beautiful golf course view and can accommodate up to 150 guests. !!! = + $ ' The Beverly Mansion 6681 State Route 229, Marengo; 419-768-4470 thebeverlymansion.com The historic venue is a premier wedding destination. Its 40 breathtaking acres offer

JORGENSEN-FARMS.COM

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The Wedding of Your Dreams

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From planning to the placement of your favors, most everything is included.

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Beautifully appointed rooms and attentive, personalized service

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Knowledgeable private event planners to coordinate everything

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•

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3525 Heritage Club Drive Hilliard, OH 43026 | heritagegc.com | 614.777.1690 © ClubCorp USA, Inc. All rights reserved. Call for details. Other restrictions and exclusions apply. 36194 0917 LS

YOUR EVENT. TO PERFECTION. Our private dining rooms are the perfect space for Showers, Rehearsals, Receptions & More!

BRAVO LENNOX TOWN CENTER 1803 OLENTANGY RIVER RD. | (614) 291-8210 BRAVO BETHEL 3000 HAYDEN RD. | (614) 791-1245 BRIO EASTON TOWN CENTER 3993 EASTON STATION | (614) 416-4745 BRIO POLARIS FASHION PLACE 1500 POLARIS PARKWAY | (614) 410-0310

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the ideal setting for celebrations. Centuriesold oaks, a foot bridge, a pond and unparalleled charm and history lend character to any gathering. !!!!! = + $ ' ) # Bloomfield Meadows Barn 650 State Route 314, Centerburg; 614-354-8468 bloomfieldmeadows.com This rustic-elegant farm venue is surrounded by nature—the perfect location for a relaxed, intimate wedding ceremony and reception. !!!! = + $ ' ) # Brio Tuscan Grille 3993 Easton Station, Columbus; 614-416-4745 brioitalian.com Experience a taste of Tuscany; private and semiprivate rooms in the heart of Easton are perfect for showers, rehearsal dinners and receptions. ! + ' Clover Valley Golf Club 3300 Miller Paul Rd., Galena; 740-965-1215 clovervalleygolfclub.com Enjoy countryside charm at this pretty clubhouse with lovely trim work and wood dance floor. The water, willow tree, silo, wraparound porch and foot bridge provide decadent picture possibilities. !!! = + $ ' ) Columbus Airport Marriott 1375 N. Cassady Ave., Columbus; 614-383-3610 columbusairportmarriott.com The Columbus Airport Marriott is one of the largest hotel banquet facilities in the city, with more than 14,000 square feet of meeting space, exhibit and pre-function areas. Call to schedule a site tour today. !!!!! = $ ' > Creekside Conference & Event Center 101 Mill St., Ste. 300, Gahanna; 614-416-8188 creeksidecec.com The Creekside ballroom can be divided into four salons to accommodate various reception sizes. Guests enjoy gorgeous floor-to-ceiling views overlooking Creekside Plaza. !!!!! = + $ ' ) > Embassy Suites Hotel Columbus 2700 Corporate Exchange Dr., Columbus; 614-890-8600 columbus.embassysuites.com Have it all in one place—ceremony, reception and guest accommodations. Entire facility was remodeled in summer 2016. !!!! = $ ' > The Estate at New Albany 5216 Forest Dr., New Albany; 614-255-6455 theestatenewalbany.biz Modern wedding and event venue featuring both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, high ceilings and an abundance of natural light. !!!!! = + $ ' ( > Everal Barn & Homestead 60 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville; 614-901-6515 westerville.org This historical 19th-century barn and homestead is the perfect location for any

“Classic elegance” was the theme at Jaimee and Ryan Wheeler’s Scioto Reserve Country Club wedding. (Hillary Ferguson Photography)

type of event. The rustic barn offers something for everyone. !!! = + $ ) The Golf Club at Little Turtle 5400 Little Turtle Way, Westerville; 614-212-4000 littleturtlegolf.com The Hawthorne Ballroom features a 40-foot limestone fireplace, high ceilings, rustic beams, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the stunning grounds and a private patio space with a panoramic view of the sparkling lake. !!!!! = + $ ' > The Grand Barn at The Mohicans 23164 Vess Rd., Glenmont; 740-599-9030 facebook.com/grandbarn The owners have designed and built what they believe to be the ultimate rustic barn wedding venue, where rustic meets elegance. Tour the property to experience firsthand what they mean. !!! = + $ ) Grins & Pickin’s CampFarm 1 County Rd. 170, Marengo; 740-625-6011 grinsandpickinscampfarm.com Surrounded by a peaceful country farm setting, the Big Pole Barn rental includes seating for 40, three buffet tables, a stage and a fire pit. !! = + $ ) # Hilton Columbus at Easton 3900 Chagrin Dr., Columbus; 614-414-5000 hiltoncolumbus.com Newly renovated hotel and ballrooms

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Have your honeymoon in a treehouse!

Lauren McPherson prepares to throw her bouquet at Irongate Equestrian Center after marrying Brett McPherson.

(Brett Loves Elle Photography)

Call 440-263-8546 to schedule your tour www.themohicans.net Request an informational wedding packet at info@themohicans.net

accommodating 50 to 700 guests. Contact the catering team to discuss your wedding reception. !!!!! = $ ' > Irongate Equestrian Center 12298 Croton Rd., Croton; 740-893-8001 irongateequestriancenter.com Award-winning, luxury, rustic, private wedding and special event venue located just 20 minutes northeast of New Albany. !!!!! = + $ ( > Jorgensen Farms Historic Barn 5851 E. Walnut St., Westerville; 614-855-2697 jorgensen-farms.com Elegant, charming and spacious, this yearround organic farm wedding venue is a one-of-a-kind experience for you and your guests, from the farmhouse to the flower field to the crystal chandeliers in the barn. !!!!! = + $ ' ) #

Lauren Lee Photography

Jorgensen Farms Oak Grove 7500 Harlem Rd., New Albany; 614-855-2697 jorgensen-farms.com Edgy and modern, yet surrounded by gardens and nature; say “I do” in their industrial greenhouse, then dine and dance the evening away as you enjoy the scenery and reception with floor-to-ceiling glass walls. !!!!! = + $ ' > # La Navona 154 N. Hamilton Rd., Gahanna; 614-532-5711 lanavona.com La Navona is a modern-rustic, all-inclusive venue hosting wedding receptions up to 250 guests. Their beautifully landscaped patios are perfect for ceremonies and pictures. !!!!! = + ' >

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The Lakes Golf and Country Club 6740 Worthington Rd., Westerville; 614-882-2582 lakesclub.com Sprawling Augusta-style clubhouse; private club available to nonmembers !!!!! = + $ ' Landoll’s Mohican Castle 561 Township Rd. 3352, Loudonville; 419994-6353 landollsmohicancastle.com One of Ohio’s most popular and stunning wedding sites is set in the Mohican hills at a gorgeous castle resort. !!!! = + $ ' ) > Magnolia Hill Farm 6665 Johnsville Rd., Centerburg; 740-480-1885 facebook.com/magnoliahillfarmohio Every inch of this space was intentionally designed to fulfill the desires of the classic, romantic couple seeking a breathtaking venue close to home, as well as the needs of their wedding creative team. !!!! = + $ ) # McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks 3965 New Bond St., Columbus; 614-476-3663 mccormickandschmicks.com Enjoy the warm and inviting atmosphere of beautiful mahogany woodwork and stained glass in the fully private dining room. ! ' > The Medallion Club 5000 Club Dr., Westerville; 614-794-6987 medallionclub.com Situated amid a lush golf course with fountains and lakes dotting the landscape, The Medallion Club offers an ideal location to host anything from an intimate ceremony to a lavish reception. !!!!! = + $ ' >

New Albany Links 7100 New Albany Links Dr., New Albany; 614-855-8532 newalbanylinks.com Beautiful indoor and outdoor venues for both ceremony and reception; spacious event tent outside, vaulted ceilings and mahogany bar inside. !!!!! = + $ ' ) > NOAH’s Event Venue 175 E. Main St., New Albany; 614-943-9886 noahseventvenue.com This location is the perfect mix of smalltown and urban, right off of I-270 on New Albany’s Main Street. Within half a mile, event guests can find a number of places to eat and stay. !!!!! = + $ ) NorthStar Golf Club 1150 Wilson Rd., Sunbury; 740-965-3663 thenorthstargolfclub.com On the north side of Columbus, NorthStar will provide you with the perfect atmosphere for your big day. The full-service facility offers first-class service at an affordable value. !!!! = + $ ' > Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel 409 Altair Pkwy., Westerville; 614-882-6800 facebook.com/renwesterville Customize an unforgettable experience for your wedding weekend with their intriguing blend of elegance and comfort. The hotel will gift you with memories that last a lifetime. !!!!! = + $ ' > Royal American Links 3300 Miller Paul Rd., Galena; 740-965-5122 royalamericanlinks.com Charming, Scottish-inspired castle built into a rolling hill; stunning ballroom of high beams lends itself to light, whimsical, charming, rustic and highly elegant palettes; full-length balcony overlooks beautifully manicured golf course. !!!!! = + $ ' ) Valley Dale Ballroom 1590 Sunbury Rd., Columbus; 614-873-3344 valleydaleballroom.com Established in 1918, Valley Dale remains one of the few last great American ballrooms.

It is newly renovated and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Made From Scratch Catering manages the facility. !!!!! = + $ ' ( >

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Villa Milano 1630 Schrock Rd., Columbus; 614-882-2058 villamilano.com Elegant facility; family-owned; homemade food made on premises !!!!! = $ ' ) >

NORTHWEST

Dublin, Marysville, Plain City and beyond Bravo Cucina Italiana-Bethel 3000 Hayden Rd., Columbus; 614-791-1245 bravoitalian.com Upscale, affordable Italian restaurant with three semi-private spaces ! '

2690 Stratford Rd. | Delaware, OH 43015 www.BarnatStratford.org manager@BarnatStratford.org

844-369-2276 (BARN) SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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main event reception guide Brookside Golf & Country Club 2770 W. Dublin-Granville Rd., Columbus; 614-734-4091 brooksidegcc.com The vintage feel of Brookside’s Tudor-style clubhouse and beautiful grounds provides a romantic ambiance for any occasion. !!!!! = + $ ' >

David Scott dressed as Indiana Jones to remove Jaime Scott’s garter at their Hilton Columbus/ Polaris reception. (Hillary Ferguson Photography)

The Club at Corazón 7155 Corazón Dr., Dublin; 614-504-5250 clubatcorazon.com This luxurious, Spanish/Tuscan-style villa features wrapping vineyards and a terraced patio overlooking the lakefront gardens and fountain. It offers five-star wedding ceremonies and receptions, a bridal suite, spa garden, salon, massages and even bridal yoga. !!!! = + $ ' > The Club at Tartan Fields 8070 Tartan Fields Dr., Dublin; 614-792-0900 tartanfields.com Whether you envision an intimate ceremony or a lavish affair, they will take care of all the details so you can relax, spend time with loved ones and create memories to last a lifetime. !!! = + $ ' > Columbus Marriott Northwest 5605 Blazer Pkwy., Dublin; 614-791-1000 marriott.com A Marriott-certified wedding planner will work with you to make your day unforgettable.

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

The Country Club at Muirfield Village 8715 Muirfield Dr., Dublin; 614-764-1714 tccmv.com Exclusive country-club setting with a view of the golf course and a beautiful, new, outdoor patio Der Dutchman 445 S. Jefferson Ave., Plain City; 614-873-3414 derdutchman.com On-site events; also catering off-site !!!!! ' > < Dorral Farm 11101 Hinton Mill Rd., Marysville; 614-889-9128 dorralfarm.com Featuring 80 acres of beautifully maintained grounds with two ponds with fountains. The climate-controlled barn has a huge fireplace, large picture windows and is handicap-accessible. Your wedding is the only event that day. !!!!! = + $ ( #

wedding receptions + rehearsal dinners + bridal showers

restaurant & bar

50 W. Bridge St., Dublin, OH 43017

6880 North High St., Worthington, OH 43085

614.718.1818

614.888.1818

Dutch Mill Greenhouse 18443 State Route 4 N, Marysville; 937-642-0511 dutchmillgreenhouse.com A unique and rustic setting at the garden center. Hold your ceremony in the greenhouse or under the trees, followed by an evening of dancing and fun under the lights and the stars. !!!! = + $ ) # Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus-Dublin 5100 Upper Metro Pl., Dublin; 614-790-9000 facebook.com/embassysuitescolumbusdublin Their elegant, 6,100-square-foot ballroom is one of the top wedding reception locations in Columbus. They have the perfect amenities to create a memorable experience for your wedding ceremony and reception. !!!!! = $ ' ) > The Exchange at Bridge Park 6520 Riverside Dr., Dublin; 614-793-2263 catering.cameronmitchellpremierevents.com A contemporary, open event space with hardwood floors and raw stone details in Dublin’s New Bridge Park neighborhood, which offers stunning views of historic downtown Dublin and the majestic Scioto River !!!!! = + $ ' > Golf Club of Dublin 5805 Eiterman Rd., Dublin; 614-792-3825, ext. 6 golfclubofdublin.com Offering the utmost in hospitality, they promise you and your guests will have a memorable experience, as they treat their guests with traditional Irish warmth and cheer. !!!! = + $ ' ) >

EAST

Bexley, Granville, Reynoldsburg, Whitehall and beyond Bryn Du Mansion 537 Jones Rd., Granville; 740-587-7053 bryndu.com Elegant mansion, landscaped patio areas and lawn site for tent; 7,200-square-foot lodge-like facility; may bring in alcohol !!!!! = + $ ) # SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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main event reception guide Alexandria Theodosopoulos-Plaster and Jesse Plaster danced in the clouds at Weatherington Woods.

(Nicole Dixon Photographic)

Bloomfield Meadows Barn Wedding / Event Venue in the middle of 20 rolling acres sits the rustic yet elegant barn and heart shaped pond, the perfect place to start your new life together!

650 State Route 314 Centerburg, Ohio 43011 614-354-8468 bloomfieldmeadows.com

Buxton Inn 313 E. Broadway, Granville; 614-260-4261 buxtoninn.com A unique setting in beautiful Granville for small to large private events !! = + $ ' > Cherry Valley Lodge 2299 Cherry Valley Rd., Newark; 740-788-1200 cherryvalleylodge.com Cherry Valley Lodge offers some of the most experienced wedding specialists and the most unique and beautiful spaces.

Contact a wedding specialist to make your dreams come true. !!!!! = + ' > Columbus Country Club 4831 E. Broad St., Columbus; 614-861-0800 columbuscc.com The Columbus Country Club has a beautiful event venue, as well as a championship golf course and clubhouse. Their team is available to help throughout the entire process, from menu planning to floor plans. !!!!! = + $ ' >

Email us for design ideas at:

greg@rockonice.com

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

Crossroads Wedding & Event Center 169 Fairway Blvd., Whitehall; 614-501-7422 crossroadsevents.vpweb.com Four rooms available for up to 200 people.

Bring your own food and beverages. Lots of free parking; great for the budget-minded bride. !!!! = $ ' ) > # The Greenhouse at Vista 2600 Hennessey Dr., Nashport; 740-453-4758 vistagolfcourse.com Unique facility offering a one-of-a-kind experience. From April through October, the Greenhouse has a beautiful, live flower wall that is the perfect ambiance for any occasion, giving an outdoor feeling to your indoor event. !!!!! = + $ )

Granville Inn 314 E. Broadway, Granville; 740-587-3333 granvilleinn.com Nestled in the heart of Granville, the warmth and charm of the historic Granville Inn creates a one-of-a-kind setting for a memorable wedding weekend. Request a tour and experience their ambiance and stunning restoration yourself. !! = + $ ' > Jefferson Country Club 7271 Jefferson Meadows Dr., Blacklick; 614-759-7500 jeffersoncountryclub.com Jefferson is a prestigious country club offering spectacular views. It’s available to nonmembers for weddings, showers and rehearsal dinners. !!!!! = + $ ' > Jeffrey Mansion 165 N. Parkview Ave., Bexley; 614-559-4300 bexley.org/facility-rentals The Bexley Recreation & Parks Department offers facility reservations for Jeffrey Mansion in Jeffrey Park. Reservations must be made in-person weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Bexley Recreation & Parks Department. !! = + $ ( > Kindred Tasting Room 505 Morrison Rd., Gahanna; 614-528-1227 kindredbeer.com Cool, fresh space with relaxed vibe that’s perfect for showers, bachelorette parties or intimate receptions; bar wows with premium wines, specialty cocktails and draft beer; conveniently located just off I-270, minutes from Easton. ! = + $ ' ) > The Robert C. Walter Student Commons 2010 E. Broad St., Columbus; 614-252-6714 stcharlesprep.org

1015 Brice Street Newark, OH 43055

Featuring high ceilings and brick details; Catholic affiliation not required Tall Timbers Banquet and Conference Center 13831 National Rd. SW, Reynoldsburg; 740-927-7603 talltimbersonline.com Offering options to accommodate a variety of budgets, with linen, china, tableware and Chiavari chairs available. Our event coordinators will help you choose the best package for your wedding; couples can bring their own alcohol. !!!!! = + $ ' # The Trout Club 2250 Horns Hill Rd., Newark; 740-366-2770, ext. 4 thetroutclub.com Your ceremony will overlook some of the most beautiful settings in Licking County.

With multiple locations across their 163 acres of manicured, rolling landscape, you are sure to find the perfect place for your event. !!!! = + ' >

740-322-6355

info@maineventspartyrental.com WWW.MAINEVENTSPARTYRENTAL.COM

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The Virtues Golf Club 1 Long Dr., Nashport; 740-763-1100 thevirtuesgolfclub.com Located in the foothills of the Appalachians, the celebrated course and banquet facility has breathtaking views from all angles. They offer a complete selection of packages to help make planning your wedding enjoyable. !!!!! = + $ ' > Weatherington Woods 3625 Olde Falls Rd., Zanesville; 740-995-0374 wwvenue.com Situated close to town on 2 acres of beautiful country setting. Rental includes both wedding and reception in one place. Have your day—your way. !!!!! = + $ ) # Wolfe Park Shelterhouse 105 Park Dr., Columbus; 614-645-3337 columbus.gov Conveniently located close to Downtown, just outside all the hustle and bustle, the venue features lots of natural lighting, a fireplace and a bridal suite. It’s customizable to fit your needs. !!! = + $ ) > #

WEST

Fifth by Northwest, Grandview Heights, Hilliard, Upper Arlington and beyond Amelita Mirolo Barn 4395 Carriage Hill Ln., Upper Arlington; 614-583-5330 amelitamirolobarn.com Located in Sunny 95 Park, this unique facility blends the historic beams of one of the community’s oldest farm structures with an airy, modern space perfect for weddings and other special events. !!! = + $ ( > Bravo Cucina Italiana-Lennox 1803 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus; 614-291-8210 bravoitalian.com Upscale, affordable Italian restaurant with three semi-private spaces ! '

HOFBRÄUHAUS COLUMBUS IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO HOST ENGAGEMENT PARTIES, REHEARSAL DINNERS AND WEDDING RECEPTIONS. Hofbräuhaus Columbus offers a fun and friendly atmosphere and award-winning staff that can make your event a stress-free celebration, including: Full-service restaurant specializing in traditional Bavarian dishes as well as American favorites...with customizable menus for every event Private dining spaces that can accommodate 15 to 300 people On-site brewery featuring our world famous, freshly brewed beers Full service bar | Live entertainment | Free parking Lovely outdoor dining area | Handicap accessible

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEAR DOWNTOWN COLUMBUS, CALL US TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR SPECIAL EVENT! GRANDVIEW YARD | 614-294-2437 800 GOODALE BLVD., COLUMBUS, OH 43212 HOFBRAUHAUSCOLUMBUS.COM EVENTS@HOFBRAUHAUSCOLUMBUS.COM

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The Columbus Museum of Art’s Derby Court hosted Ariana and Eric Harris’ Persian ceremony. (Style & Story)

Courtyard by Marriott Columbus OSU 780 Yard St., Columbus; 614-453-4420 marriott.com/cmhwg The Courtyard by Marriott Columbus OSU is connected via an indoor corridor to The Grand Event Center. It’s an ideal location for your wedding reception and guestroom needs. !!!!! = + $ ' > Courtyard Columbus West 2350 Westbelt Dr., Columbus; 614-771-8999 marriott.com Experienced, Marriott-certified wedding consultants work with you to make your event uniquely yours. !!!!! = $ ' > The Grand Event Center 820 Goodale Blvd., Grandview Heights; 614-453-4300 thegrandeventscenter.com As one of Columbus’ most modern and vibrant venues, they promise to provide an experience unlike any other. Their packages and unique menus were created with every detail of your big day in mind. !!!!! = + $ ' > Gregory Lashutka Event Center 3479 Riverside Dr., Upper Arlington; 614-645-3337 columbus.gov Located on Griggs Reservoir, this venue is perfect for intimate weddings. Dam Tender’s house, built in 1816, was just renovated to include a cozy event space and outdoor patio. Enjoy beautiful views of the reservoir. ! = + $ ) > # 108

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Griggs Reservoir Boathouse 3033 Thoburn Rd., Columbus; 614-645-3337 columbus.gov Located on Griggs Reservoir, this gorgeous and unique building has the perfect view.

With windows surrounding the Scioto Room and a patio overlooking the reservoir, this facility gives you a warm feeling year-round. !! = + $ ) > # Heritage Golf Club 3525 Heritage Club Dr., Hilliard; 614-684-7112 heritagegc.com Heritage Golf Club is the perfect place to celebrate your special day. They offer beautiful private rooms and outdoor spaces with a picturesque setting for your wedding ceremony, reception, rehearsal dinner and/ or bridal shower. !!!! = + $ ' > Hofbräuhaus Columbus 800 Goodale Blvd., Grandview Heights; 614-294-2437 hofbrauhauscolumbus.com Hofbräuhaus Columbus offers a unique experience for any type of event you are planning. Private dining spaces are available upstairs.

Makoy Center 5462 N. Center St., Hilliard; 614-777-1211 makoy.com Located in Old Hilliard; 1920s art deco ambiance, large dance floor, staging and state-of-the-art sound system !!!!! = + $ ' ) >

The Ohio State University Golf Club 3605 Tremont Rd., Columbus; 614-514-3663 ohiostategolfclub.com Featuring a spectacular veranda with a beautiful view of the course. Menu options include a large selection of hors d’oeuvres, dinners and even gourmet desserts. !!! = + $ ' > The Reception House at Raymond Memorial 3860 Trabue Rd., Columbus; 614-276-6127 raymondreceptions.com A newly renovated banquet facility with custom menus !!!! = + ' Swim and Racquet Club 3500 Kenny Rd., Columbus; 614-451-3762 swimandracquet.com Small venue for small wedding receptions !! $ ) # WatersEdge 4643 Trueman Blvd., Hilliard; 614-876-2200 watersedgeevents.biz All-inclusive packages include facility, service staff, linens, food, beverage, cake, DJ and centerpieces. !!!! = + $ ' > Wren Farm 6150 State Route 187, Mechanicsburg; 614-746-2751 wren-farm.com A beautiful, historic barn venue. Scenic sunsets make it a perfect location for a chic, rustic event. Proximately located between Columbus and Dayton. !!!! = + $ ) #

SOUTHEAST

Groveport, Lockbourne, Pickerington and beyond The Barn at Blystone Farm 8677 Oregon Rd., Canal Winchester; 614-833-1211 facebook.com/blystonebarn The Barn at Blystone Farm is the perfect venue to showcase rustic elegance. Their on-site planner specializes in special days. !!!!! = + $ ' )

Jefferson Country Club 7271 Jefferson Meadows Drive Blacklick, OH 614-759-7500 jeffersoncountryclub.com

Barn at Rush Creek 29310 Klump Rd., Sugar Grove; 740746-2040 barnatrushcreek.com Located in beautiful Hocking Hills on a private, 200-acre working farm with breathtaking scenery that includes a pond, meadow and, of course, the hills; offering complete wedding packages and onsite lodging !!!!! = + $ ' ) # Berwick Manor 3250 Refugee Rd., Columbus; 614-235-7100 the-berwick.com The Berwick has been a family-owned and operated company since 1955, specializing in homemade Italian goodness. Offering full-service banquet services, including all of the linens, china, silverware, glassware and service staff. !!!!! = ' The Clock Tower Premier Banquet & Conference Center 4500 Eastland Dr., Columbus; 614-759-9371 columbusclocktower.com A unique, 7,000-square-foot venue that features a blend of European-influenced architecture and Hollywood ballroom elegance !!!!! = $ ' ) > Foxfire Golf Club 10799 State Route 104, Lockbourne; 614-224-3694 foxfiregolfclub.com Country setting at a beautiful 36-hole golf club 20 minutes south of Columbus; two patios Groveport Town Hall 648 Main St., Groveport; 614-836-3333 groveport.org Great place to have a quaint wedding and reception !! = $ ) < Hickory Lakes Event Facilities 12495 Ault Rd., Pickerington; 614-837-2143 hickorylakes.blogspot.com Located on 88 acres of land, including six lakes and approximately 40 wooded acres, with catering and spaces for receptions and ceremonies, all to make your day the best ever with memories for a lifetime. !!!!! = + $ ( Hocking Hills Wedding Chapel 29301 Klump Rd., Sugar Grove; 740-746-9934 hockinghillsweddingchapel.com Featuring a stunning log chapel, gazebo, outdoor stone fireplace and professional landscaping, the venue’s customizable, all-inclusive packages will make your day unforgettable and stress-free. Accommodations for lodging are also available onsite. ! = + $ ' ) #

Providing Spectacular Events & Weddings Since 2002 • • • • •

Personalized Event Planning Full Service Catering and Bar Private Bridal & Groom’s Suites Customizable Menus Exquisite Setting

(614) 734-9800 | www.bridgewaterbanquetcenter.com SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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UNVEILED

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Erin and Jim Mitchell enjoy their first dance at the Club at Corazón.

(Forget Me Knot Photography)

Hoover YMCA Park 1570 Rohr Rd., Lockbourne; 614-389-4602 ymcacolumbus.org/hoover/rentals Enjoy 65 acres of sun-dappled lawns and shady woods, only minutes from Downtown Columbus. It’s the natural place to explore, learn, work, relax and play. !!! = + $ ) > # Laurel Run Farm 21541 Laurel Run Rd., Nelsonville; 614-848-4700 cameronmitchellpremierevents.com Located in the pristine wilderness of Hocking Hills, Laurel Run Farm offers a charming and luxurious event space. Positioned on 140 acres, the venue offers breathtaking views and privacy, perfect for your special day. !!! = + $ ' > Little Brook Meadows 100 N. Edgewood Dr., Lancaster; 740-689-9129 littlebrookmeadows.com Featuring a 50-acre ranch with a 75-yearold barn, which has been discretely renovated with modern amenities. There are multiple locations on the grounds for ceremonies, and the 8,000-square-foot, southern-style mansion will accommodate 20 overnight guests. !!!!! = + $ ) #

Your guide to Dining ConCerts Happy Hours style arts nigHt life

Columbus.

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The Mill Event Center 431 S. Columbus St., Lancaster; 740-777-9200 themilleventcenter.com This historic, customizable space features a full bar with large craft beer and bourbon selection, four-season patio, private bridal and groom's suites, AV system with surround sound and accommodations for up to 300 guests.

The Paddock Pub and Links Event Center 1005 Richardson Rd., Groveport; 614-610-9688 thepaddockpub.com Located at the Links at Groveport, the

Paddock Pub is a casual spot serving American fare. The Links Event Center can host your wedding; event consultants will handle all the details at this full-service facility. !!!! = $ ' > Retreat at Turnberry 11680 Refugee Rd., Pickerington; 614-645-3337 columbus.gov The perfect location for a rustic wedding feel. Open space, a very large kitchen and a private park setting set this facility apart.

This location is customizable to fit your every need. !! = + $ ) > # Stuart’s Opera House 52 Public Sq., Nelsonville; 740-753-1924 stuartsoperahouse.org The historic Stuart’s Opera House features a brand-new, 4,000-square-foot Grand Lobby, a historic 1879 theater, catering kitchen and more. !!!!! = $ ) Wagnalls Memorial Society 150 E. Columbus St., Lithopolis; 614-837-4765 facebook.com/thewagnallsmemorial This Tudor-Gothic-styled venue offers four unique sites (Outdoor Courtyard, Front Lawn, Auditorium, and the Upper Loft), providing you and the love of your life with the chance to be immersed in the Medieval Revival period. !! = + $ ' ) >

SOUTHWEST

Galloway, Grove City and beyond Aladdin Shrine Center 1801 Gateway Circle, Grove City; 614-782-2490 aladdineventcenter.com The Aladdin Shrine Center is a perfect location for weddings from 50 to 250. A private patio and gazebo allow for an intimate outdoor ceremony, and an elegant ballroom is perfect for your reception. !!!!! = + $ (

The Ballroom at Oakhurst 3223 Norton Rd., Grove City; 614-878-6443 ext. 223 oakhurstgc.com Offering timeless elegance and class, this upscale wedding venue is a historic Columbus gem with beamed ceilings, hardwood floors and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the golf course. Your wedding here will be both unforgettable and luxurious. !!!!! = + $ ( > Darby House 925 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway; 614-878-4527 darbyhouse.cameronmitchellpremierevents. com Darby House is a historic, 1,200-acre private estate located just 20 minutes west of Downtown Columbus. It offers a rustic, chic setting for picturesque indoor and outdoor ceremonies. !!!!! = + $ ' > Heimat Haus Party & Picnic Center 4555 Jackson Pike, Grove City; 614-875-6005 heimathauspartyhouse.com Three shelter houses; picnic pavilion holds 400 to 500 depending on setup; play area for children; picnic tables; walk-in cooler !!!!! = + $ ) # The Mercantile 8 E. Third Ave., Mt. Sterling; 740-505-8775 facebook.com/fleaandfarmmercantile Vintage, rustic, unique and totally unexpected !!! = + $ ) # The Old Blue Rooster Event Center 11575 Lithopolis Rd., Lithopolis; 740-438-0717 oldblueroosterevents.com Beautiful, indoor rustic barn venue with an outdoor ceremony area; heated and airconditioned; plenty of restrooms; bar area !!!! = + $ ) Pinnacle Golf Club 1500 Pinnacle Club Dr., Grove City; 614-539-0722 discoverpinnacle.com Beautiful, unique spaces; breathtaking views; exceptional service and outstanding cuisine !!!!! = + $ ' > Rustic Beauty Wedding and Event Venue 11933 Scioto Darby Rd., Orient; 614-578-4289 rusticbeautyevents.com New facility on 125-acre farm with two ponds and shelter house Westgate Park Shelterhouse 3271 Wicklow Rd., Columbus; 614-645-3337 columbus.gov Updated facility with fireplace, bridal suite and plenty of space to host your large wedding. Offers a beautiful patio with a gorgeous view of the recently renovated pond and mature trees. !!! = + $ ) > #

To add your venue to the guide, go to cbuswedmag.com/RGsubmit

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main event catering

FIVE GRAIN HASH with ancient grains, toasted almonds, shaved Brussels sprouts, kale and roasted baby cauliflower, from Made From Scratch Catering

Meatless Mains Unless you’re a vegetarian or vegan, meatless entrées might not be top of mind during your catering tastings. But just because you and your beau are omnivores doesn’t mean you should ignore options for your meat-free guests. Go beyond the standard spaghetti with choices such as these from three local caterers. —Emma Frankart Henterly

PHOTOS BY TIM JOHNSON

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VEGETABLE LO MEIN with egg noodles, broccoli, snow peas, sweet peppers, carrots and fragrant gingergarlic sauce, from Made From Scratch Catering

If you can

dream it, VEGETABLE KABOBS with grilled mushrooms, summer squashes, cherry tomatoes, red and green peppers, red onion and a balsamic reduction, from Made From Scratch Catering

we can do it.

SWEET CORN CANNELLONI fresh pasta stuffed with ricotta cheese, sweet corn and grilled fennel, topped with radicchio, from Cameron Mitchell Premier Events

Catering Elegant & Affordable Full menus including Food Stations, Antipasto Spreads, Buffet, Family Style, and Butler Service Alcohol & Facility Location Services Available Email catering@carfagnas.com or visit us at carfagnas.com SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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main event catering ZUCCHINI AND CARROT FRITTERS with chive cream and crispy carrot strips, from Catering by Scott

FRESH PAPPARDELLE PASTA with butter-roasted exotic mushrooms in a roasted red pepper, tomato and chipotle sauce, from Catering by Scott

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BALSAMIC-MARINATED PORTOBELLO STEAK with roasted cauliflower, charred vegetables, microgreen salad and gluten-free Romesco sauce, from Cameron Mitchell Premier Events

You want perfection...

We’re ready!

EVENT CENTER 118 E Main St. | Columbus, Ohio 43215 614-868-0025 • info@ RedBrickOccasions.com RedBrickOccasions.com

CAULIFLOWER SOUFFLÉ with spinach, roasted red peppers, onions and cream, from Catering by Scott

BUSTLED

CapTUrE EvEryThing yoU nEED BEforE yoUr Big Day aT

ColumbusWeddingsMag.com

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Memorable Meals Serve up a statement along with your dinner.

BY NANCY BYRON Some do it for social or sentimental reasons. Others, to adhere to cultural or family tradition. Then there are those who simply want a jaw-dropping reaction from their wedding guests. Whatever the reason, many couples are making a statement with the food they select for their receptions— from whole suckling pigs to dishes reminiscent of their first date or their late grandmother’s homemade soup.

“It’s a fun, unique challenge,” says Daniel Heckathorn, executive chef at The Blackwell Inn, which now exclusively offers customized wedding menus. “I want the food to be a memory for the couple. Everything is more personalized now. Why should the wedding food be any different? Doing weddings like this makes sense in our culture.”

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Two Caterers dressed up an appetizer serving tray with a fun garnish at Caitie Couper and Yeahwa Hong’s reception.

(Derk’s Works Photography)

Heckathorn asks couples to fill out a questionnaire that asks about everything from their favorite aromas and snacks to childhood memories and what they ate on their first date.

“I don’t want to just know what kind of food they like; I want to get part of their story,” he says. “It’s not about making something super over-the-top. It has to appeal to the public. It’s the small touches that make a bigger impact.”

For a couple honeymooning in Hawaii, for example, he added an orchid on their salad plates. For a popcorn-loving pair, he created a popcorn-encrusted chicken entrée.

For the groom from China marrying a bride from the States, a teriyaki-braised pork belly taco in a Chinese pancake shell with daikon and carrot slaw was a hit.

“There are a lot of little things peppered into the menus to try to personalize it,” he says. “You can have a great prime rib at your wedding, but it won’t have the same impact.”

PRETTY PLATES When a couple really wants a more standard option, like prime rib or filet mignon, a creative presentation on the plate can still make a big statement.

“We had one wedding where every course had to be a show-stopper piece,” says Melissa Johnson, managing director of Cameron Mitchell Premier Events. “Instead of doing an entrée course, they did a fish course and a meat course. For the fish course, they had a beautiful, golden, seared sea bass topped off with vibrant green vegetables and chive oil around the plate. But for the meat course they wanted filet, and filets are brown and round, so we had to really think about how to make that pop.”

The chefs set each filet on a bed of caramelized onions with a brined Yukon gold potato galette and topped the tenderloin with bright Italian parsley and shaved truffles. “It was visually appealing, and the flavors on it were phenomenal,” Johnson says.

Couples sometimes want to incorporate wedding colors into their meals for an extra “wow” factor, she adds. “One that comes to mind was a purple and green color scheme.”

While all the food didn’t need to be purple and green, the chefs were able to carry the theme throughout the meal by incorporating items like purple fingerling potatoes, chive oil and basil.

Another type of statement-making meal can come from an old family recipe.

“There was a special broth-based vegetable soup a bride’s grandmother used to make,” Johnson recalls. The grandmother had passed

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT, Lobster ravioli starred on Jaimie and Aaron Rodger’s menu (Sanchez Studio); Courtney and Mike Marsden’s food stations were a hit among guests (Brett Loves Elle Photography); Scioto Reserve Country Club served elegantly plated pesto chicken and julienned vegetables at Jaimee and Ryan Wheeler’s reception; Parmesan-crusted chicken and mac ’n’ cheese was accented with a fun veggie garnish at Jaime and David Scott’s wedding (both Hillary Ferguson Photography).

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away, but the bride had the recipe and wanted to incorporate it into the meal. “To watch each family member as we served that soup, it was just wonderful to see.”

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT Some couples make a statement of another sort with their reception menus.

“We’ve done some completely vegan weddings, and those people were definitely making a statement,” says Bob Selhorst, president of Bosc + Brie. “They were saying, ‘We don’t really care if you get any meat today. This is us, and we’re going to do this.’

Farm-to-fork is another statement. They’re saying, ‘I’m a local person, so I only want local stuff.’ These couples choose to live their lives a certain way, and they want to showcase that through their food.”

Other statements may be based on a couple’s heritage or culture. A few years ago,

Selhorst served three whole suckling pigs at a wedding reception for a Filipino couple.

Although the pigs were not roasted at the actual reception, which was held indoors, Selhorst says they were laid out whole on the buffet table, where each was carved up fresh for guests.

“They loved it—especially the skin,” he says. “We cook it so long the skin almost shatters like peanut brittle. They went crazy over it. Some of them, that’s all they wanted.”

When considering a meal that falls outside typical wedding menu boundaries, Selhorst advises couples to confer with their head chef to ensure he or she is fully on board.

“If you really want to make a statement, it’s probably going to be something out of their comfort range,” he says. “Make sure you have a good rapport with your chef, because you’re going to ask him to stretch

in new or different ways. Some of them like a challenge. But make sure you have somebody who is willing to go into this with you.”

KNOW YOUR GOAL Another important question to ask before choosing a statement-making meal: Who do you most want to please?

“Is the food for you and your husband, or for you and your guests?” Selhorst asks. “There’s not a whole lot of right or wrong, but you have to decide that. If it’s for your guests, [you shouldn’t] go outside the norms.”

Johnson suggests a work-around when couples have vastly different tastes than most of their guests: order a separate meal.

“If it’s something like, ‘My fiancé just loves pâté or foie gras, but not everybody is going to like it,’ we can just serve it to the groom or to the bride and groom,” she says. “It happens more often that you might think. The couple is served first, and everyone is socializing and no one is really paying attention to what’s on those two plates, so we can serve the bride and groom something different than the rest of the guests.”

That, she adds, is always a better option than forcing a specialized or incompatible taste on 150 guests. She tells the story of a couple who was trying to create a menu that blended the Indian culture of the bride and the Italian heritage of the groom.

“They asked us what two items we thought would taste the best together on a plate, and we had to say, ‘Nothing,’ ” Johnson recalls. “Sometimes we have to use our experience to guide them in a different direction. We suggested having an Indian-themed cocktail hour, while keeping the entrée Italian—or vice versa—so what you’re eating at the same time makes sense to your mouth.”

Heckathorn says even when taking into consideration what most guests will enjoy, couples should still select foods that are meaningful to them.

“Sometimes couples want to please all of their guests, but sometimes they want their style to be reflective in their food,” he says.

“They should not be sacrificing anything on their wedding day. They should have exactly what they want.”

That was the thinking behind Courtney and Mike Marsden’s July 2017 reception menu at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

The couple only selected foods they personally liked, but they kept a variety of customizable options available to their guests through a trio of tasting stations offered by the venue’s house caterer, Nourish Events.

Let our talented staff of planners, coordinators, chefs, and servers assist you in every aspect of planning and executing your wedding, ensuring every dining experience is as effortless as it is elegant.

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Our Catering is a Work of Heart Perfection. It’s a lofty goal, especially when it comes to planning and executing events. It requires dedication to the smallest details, the right resources for a totally unique experience, and our trained, knowledgeable staff with 27 years of experience.

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“Courtney was eyeing up the taco truck and the mac ’n’ cheese bar,” Mike says. “I liked the sound of the Tuscan market [station], so we were able to accommodate all three.”

“People loved the different food options that we had,” Courtney says, noting that the stations were lined up so people could fill small plates at each one.

“Having that layer of flexibility around the choices was nice in that we didn’t have to stress over picking one or two entrées,” Mike adds.

Everything was a hit, they say. Options included pork or chicken carnitas with black bean, corn and roasted pineapple salad at the taco station, four renditions of macaroni and cheese featuring ingredients from andouille sausage to shiitake mushrooms, and three Italian entrées plus a Roman-style artichoke salad with peppers and sausage at the Tuscan market.

“Even to this day, we have people tell us how much they enjoyed the food at our wedding,” Mike says. “We were extremely satisfied with the food stations.”

That, Heckathorn says, is the ultimate goal.

“I want your guests to walk away saying, ‘That was good; that was different,’ ” he says. “Maybe they’ll even reminisce about the food they had. But I really want the food to be a memory for the couple. It’s not that often you can participate in a milestone in a person’s life. One bride told [us] after the reception, ‘It felt like someone looked into our hearts in designing the menu.’ ” Now that’s quite a statement.

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Go to columbusmonthly.com or call 877-688-8009.

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Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus hors d’oeuvres at Stephanie and Luke Johnson’s wedding (Hillary Ferguson Photography)

catering main event

Bright & Bubbly With spring in the air, we wanted to feature a refreshing cocktail that’s ideal for warm-weather sips. The Blushing Bride is a wedding classic, and its variations are as diverse and numerous as the brides who enjoy them. We chose fruity and floral liqueurs for our refreshing, springlike take on this staple signature cocktail.

PHOTO BY ROB HARDIN

CW Blushing Bride Servings: 1

INGREDIENTS: ½ ounce Pama pomegranate liqueur ½ ounce St. Germain elderflower liqueur Dry, sparkling white wine, chilled Add liqueurs to a Champagne glass and top with sparkling wine. That’s it!

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Pre-Party Plans SPECIAL EVENTS & CATERING

For an experience as special as that found at Beck & Mohawk, allow the Lindey’s team to elevate your next special event. Reserve one of our private rooms or bring Lindey’s to you.

169 E. BECK ST. COLUMBUS, OHIO 43206 614.228.4343 LINDEYS.COM

Private dining spaces offer elegance and choice for rehearsal dinners.

BY BROOKE PRESTON Traditionally held the evening before the big day, rehearsal dinners are often the first event of the wedding weekend’s festivities, where family and attendants can gather and mingle after running through the ceremony’s particulars. Like today’s weddings, rehearsal dinners run a wide gamut in style, from ultra-casual backyard barbecues to formal multi-course affairs.

While the guest list and overall grandiosity tend to be much smaller than the reception, finding the right venue is tricky. Many rehearsal dinners aren’t big enough to necessitate renting out an entire banquet hall or restaurant, while sitting among other guests in a main dining area (especially on a busy weekend night) might not set the special, celebratory tone some desire.

One often overlooked rehearsal dinner space is a private dining room within a restaurant. As Grant Cassidy, executive event manager at Lindey’s Restaurant, explains, private dining experiences can be tailored to your needs and preferences, creating a memorable event.

“You have your private setting, catered specifically to what you want, to the feel you’re trying to go for,” he says. “You don’t have to worry about any other interruptions from any other guests. And you have the ability to work with myself or one of our

other coordinators to customize your event, with that bit of extra attention.”

While some couples may shy away from private spaces, fearing they’ll be locked into rigid packages or sky-high costs, Cassidy is quick to dispel such notions. For instance, Lindey’s— which frequently hosts rehearsal dinners, as well as weddings and the full range of related events—offers a variety of spaces that can be rented individually or combined into one large-scale rental; the cozy terrace room seats up to 14, while the full upstairs can accommodate up to 180. The restaurant offers several prix fixe event menu tiers to choose from for private events, making it easy to work within your scale and budget. The restaurant also offers brunch menus, food stations (think: carved meats, seafood, desserts, heavy hors d’oeuvres) and buffet options.

Each restaurant’s private dining space has different capacities, menus and policies, so it pays to ask lots of questions up front and tour the spaces before deciding which one has the perfect ambiance for your rehearsal dinner.

“We’ve been fortunate enough to become known for providing excellent service and excellent food,” Cassidy says. “People feel they can come here and know they’ll get a beautiful setting; beautiful artwork; a nice, classical setting. Yet our menus and service have all adjusted with the times.”

Voted Columbus’ best restaurant 2010-2018.

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PHOTO: TIM JOHNSON

Crab cakes at Lindey’s Restaurant

cakes main event

ROCK SOLID Lemon elderflower cake with lemon and raspberry frosting, featuring white chocolate discs, fresh fruit and flowers, geode rock candy and macarons,

by Capital City Cakes

Garden Party We asked four local bakers to create cakes with designs and flavors that incorporate bright spring florals.

Here’s what they came up with.

PHOTOS BY ROB HARDIN

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main event cakes SECRET GARDEN Vanilla cake with signature buttercream frosting and lavender, strawberry and raspberry cake pop “flowers” inside, featuring hand-painted and piped buttercream flowers, by Our CupCakery

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BIRCH, PLEASE Chocolate cake with French buttercream frosting, featuring hand-painted birch bark design and piped buttercream flowers, by The Suisse Shop Bakery

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main event cakes PAINTERLY POSY Key lime margarita cake with piña colada frosting and signature fondant, featuring hand-painted flowers, by Jan Kish-La Petite Fleur

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cakes main event

How Sweet It Is

Laura and Trevor Arnett take their first bites of their red velvet wedding cake.

(Forget Me Knot Photography)

Wedding-day dessert options abound.

BY PETER TONGUETTE When you picture a wedding cake, a certain kind of confection likely springs to mind. Maybe your mental picture has been informed by pop-culture images—say, the gigantic, tiered, white cake that dwarfs Elizabeth Taylor and her first beau, Conrad Hilton, in a famous photograph taken at their wedding.

Yet, for many contemporary brides and grooms, there are many other ways to do cake.

Couples today might ask themselves: What kind of cake? How much cake? What size?

What flavor? And what about no cake at all?

Such considerations reflect the challenges of getting wedding desserts right.

“When the bride and groom are at the ceremony, they’re the center of attraction,” says Jan Kish, owner of Jan Kish-La Petite Fleur in Worthington. “When you hit the reception, the cake is sort of the center of attraction, so you want to have something that’s impressive.”

To familiarize customers with the options, many bakeries—including Our CupCakery in Dublin—offer tasting consultation appointments. “There are a lot of different [options]—between cakes and cupcakes and all of that good stuff,” says Our CupCakery’s Laura Kick Molter.

Some couples arrive with a specific cake concept in mind, but there are exceptions.

“There are definitely other customers who are like, ‘I don’t really know what I want.

We’re not sure if we want to do cupcakes; we’re not sure if we want to do a cake,’ ” Kick Molter says.

Until about two years ago, Our CupCakery’s wedding orders were divided evenly between cakes and cupcakes. More recently, however, an additional option has emerged: weddings built around dessert bars (see “Non-Cake Options,” Page 130).

“We do about a third dessert bars, about a third pure cakes and then about a third cupcake towers or some version,” Kick Molter says. “A lot of the weddings incorporate more than one aspect.”

Even if you are a cake traditionalist, however, plenty of possibilities abound. Kish says that the reception’s venue can guide the external characteristics of a cake. Depending on the setting, a couple could choose a simple design or an ornate pattern.

“If you’re in The Athletic Club [of Columbus], you’re going to have something that’s more elegant, as opposed to something you might find on a farm or in a barn,” Kish says.

On the other hand, if a couple has chosen such a rustic setting, a cake that’s decorated to emulate a birch tree might be in order.

If the reception takes place in an urban environment, meanwhile, a more contemporary-looking cake could be the best bet.

“You’re going to look for something that’s maybe more sleek—not as much fuss to it,” Kish says. “Maybe more angular, geometric.”

What about decorating trends? Silver accents were king until about three years ago, Kick Molter says, when Our CupCakery began seeing a shift toward gold accents.

Flowers made of fondant remain popular; fresh flowers have a following, but can be divisive. “Some people love that idea,” Kick Molter says. “Some people, that kind of gives them the heebie-jeebies.” Fresh fruit placed on the exterior of cakes, though, is ascendant, she says.

When it comes to shapes, Kish receives orders for cakes baked using her patented SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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www.sadiebabysweets.com

2119 Polaris Pkwy • Columbus, OH 43240 614-846-5102 • weddings@thesuisseshop.com 128

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English Boxwood Garden design, but in many ways round cakes are still de rigueur, followed by square and occasionally hexagon. About the same ratios are found at Our CupCakery. A majority of its cakes are round, Kick Molter says, while “maybe 5 to 10 percent are square, and usually every year we have maybe two cakes that have hexagon tiers.”

Our CupCakery bakes some two-tier or four-tier cakes, but most couples opt for three levels of cake goodness. If you want all of your attendees to feel free to indulge, while keeping an eye on the bottom line, “kitchen cakes” can be ordered to supplement the tiered cake, Kick Molter says.

“Guests don’t know if they’re getting the tiered wedding cake or the cake from the back,” she explains. “People are looking to get the best bang for their buck and still have a nice event—but not go crazy.”

Then again, many cakes don’t fit into any category (or mold).

Kish points to cakes in which tier height appears to differ. One tier might be 2 inches, while the next could appear to be taller; in fact, the added height is achieved with the help of Styrofoam. “You’re doing it for the artistic look of it,” Kish says. “You’re not going to serve someone a slice of cake that’s 6 inches tall and a slice to someone else that’s 2 inches tall.”

Regardless of the number or dimensions of tiers, couples increasingly feel at home with requesting multiple flavors; single-flavor cakes are not the norm, Kish says. “We have about 20 different interiors to choose from, so then it gets down to personal preference,” she says.

Indeed, Kish sees ever more personalization in cake design overall. One couple chose carved cakes shaped to resemble a

Capital City Cakes included an animal-print detail on one tier of Courtney and Mike Marsden’s cake, tying it in to their zoo venue.

(Brett Loves Elle Photography)

panda and a wombat. “Her nickname was ‘Panda,’ ” Kish says. “He loved wombats.

That was their wedding cake.” Another bride, a former CrossFit contestant in the Arnold Sports Festival, tailored her cake to her avocation. “On the back of their cake, underneath a little fold of the fondant, was a kettlebell with their initials on it,” Kish says.

Of course, there are simpler ways for a couple to stamp their personalities on a cake. At Our CupCakery, verbiage like “Mr. and Mrs.” or “Best Day Ever”—written in script lettering—are popular toppers.

Quirkier objects can also serve as toppers.

“Last year, we had just two toy dinosaurs that they put a bowtie and a veil on,” Kick Molter says. “I just think the custom, fun, silly toppers are such a great way to just bring a little personality to it.”

What if you just can’t commit to a single cake, however? Maybe a cupcake tower is your best bet. Our CupCakery recently assembled one boasting more than 300 mini cupcakes (plus a small cake for the couple to cut) that served around 150 guests—thus distributing the flavors fairly to those in attendance. “With a tiered cake, the tiers on the top are small and the tier on the bottom is large,” Molter says. “If you want to have a variety of flavors, sometimes it’s hard to offer a kind of equitable amount of those flavors, whereas the cupcake, it’s pretty easy.”

Be forewarned: Such a cupcake display (or an elaborate dessert bar) may prove as costly as an old-fashioned tiered cake after factoring in the fees to rent stands and the work involved in setting up the display.

Like the weather, perhaps, if you don’t care for present trends in wedding cakes, just wait a while—things are sure to change.

While fondant has long been in vogue, Kish

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Advertiser Directory CATERERS

Capital City Cakes

boscandbrie.com 614-985-2215 7625 N. High St., Columbus

capitalcitycakesoh.com 614-277-9338 4009 Broadway, Grove City

Cameron Mitchell Premier Events

Jan Kish-La Petite Fleur

cameronmitchell premierevents.com 614-848-4700

jankish.com 614-848-5855 633 Oxford St., Worthington

Carfagna’s Catering carfagnas.com 614-846-6340

Catering by Scott cateringbyscott.com 614-237-1949 2980 E. Broad St., Columbus ABOVE, The Suisse Shop Bakery created a dramatic, minimalist cake for Megan and Ric Diedalis (Nicole Dixon Photographic); BELOW, Jacqueline and Corbin Ricker served a sweets table in addition to their cake (Derk’s Works Photography).

NON-CAKE OPTIONS Maybe cakes—whether in tiered or cupcake form—just aren’t for you or your future spouse. Several area bakeries offer dessert bars in which wedding guests are given a say about which treats to indulge in.

For their lavish wedding spreads, Sadie Baby Sweets offers brownies loaded with mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and chocolatedrizzled Rice Krispie Treats—not to mention traditional favorites such as bite-sized cheesecakes, hand pies and much else.

“You’re going to meet the needs of what your guest is really excited to have,” says owner Rachel Altiere. “They get to pick something that they want, instead of just [being] limited to a flavor option.”

says that buttercream is reemerging as a favored choice among younger brides—that is, those young enough to not remember when buttercream was considered the bee’s knees. “Buttercream is there because this is new to brides who are younger,” she says.

And although Kick Molter says that there has been a trend away from inedible cake elements (like real flowers), Our CupCakery just booked an order for a cake bejeweled in rhinestones. “You think you know what’s coming, and then you’re like, ‘Oh, OK. Fine—yup, we’ll go back to that again.’ ” 130

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DESSERTS

Bosc + Brie

City Barbeque Catering

Our CupCakery ourcupcakery.com 614-659-1555 16 N. High St., Dublin

Sadie Baby Sweets sadiebabysweets.com 614-723-9323 1171 W. Third Ave., Columbus

citybbq.com/catering 614-538-1230

The Suisse Shop Bakery

Made from Scratch Catering

thesuisseshop.com 614-876-5102 2119 Polaris Pkwy., Columbus

made-from-scratch. com 614-873-3344 7500 Montgomery Dr., Plain City

RECEPTION VENUES Please see our full reception venue directory on Page 88.

Schmidt’s Restaurant Banquets and Catering schmidthaus.com 614-444-5050

And Sadie Baby doesn’t just set the desserts out on a table, either. “It’s really creating a decorative piece in the room,” Altiere says, that is consistent with the palette and theme of the event. The treats, though, are meant to complement the fun—not overtake it. “It’s mingling food,” she says.

And that can include cake-inspired treats, such as the bakery’s signature, elaborately decorated cake pops: Baked cake is combined with frosting and rolled into a ball to make a truffle-esque treat. “It’s almost like a cookiedough consistency,” Altiere says. “Then we put a stick into it and dip it in chocolate.” Sprinkles and designs can be added.

“Variety is the spice of life, right?” Altiere says.

Stephanie and Nathaniel Marks hired The Suisse Shop Bakery to create a five-tiered cake with floral elements. (Aimee Thomas Photography)

PHOTO: SANCHEZ STUDIO

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Style A SPECTRUM OF

A photographer’s approach to a wedding will have a major impact on the photos he or she creates.

BY EMMA FRANKART HENTERLY As you search for your wedding photographer, the “About Me” sections on their various web pages provide a peek into their styles. A photographer might describe himself or herself as taking a photojournalistic or editorial approach, but exactly what does that mean?

Alexandria Theodosopoulos’ attendants help her get ready while taking advantage of the natural light by a window.

(Nicole Dixon Photographic)

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The Range Wedding photographers typically fall into five broad categories: photojournalistic, documentary, natural, editorial and artistic. However, there are few hard delineations between styles, and many of them overlap one another.

True photojournalists are purely candid shooters. They observe the events around them as flies on walls, capturing everything but participating in nothing. You may not want your photographer to take a photojournalistic approach all day long, but this is a great method for capturing ceremony and reception photos. A photojournalistic wedding photographer may make only light edits to images during the post-production stage.

Documentary photography, like documentary film, aims to tell an authentic story in an aesthetically pleasing way. This style of shooting has become especially popular among couples in recent years, as it blends the best of candid/photojournalistic photography with more stylized images. It’s a great approach for pre-wedding and detail images, as the photographer will set up a shot before capturing the events that unfold naturally from that setup. Post-production edits tend to be limited and focus more on enhancing an image than entirely changing it.

In the middle of the spectrum is a category that’s a bit harder to name; many photographers refer to it as timeless or natural. A photographer who focuses on this style will use a blend of techniques to tell the story of an entire day, from romantic couples’ portraits to your sister’s hilarious pre-dinner toasts.

Post-production editing styles vary based on the photographer, but they tend to be lighthanded, as in documentary photography.

An editorial photographer takes composition and styling a bit further than a naturalist; he or she often spends more time staging an image, whether it’s a flat-lay of an invitation suite or the perfect composition of a mother buttoning up the bride’s gown.

Interesting lighting and shooting techniques elevate the imagery to look like something you’d expect to see in a fashion magazine, and editing practices may be more complex, with creative adjustments made to contrast, color saturation and other elements.

A photographer shooting in a fine art style is trying to create images that you might see hanging in a gallery. Instead of intimate portraits that feel candid and natural, an artistic photographer’s portraits might feature the couple very inconspicuously small against a wide, beautiful backdrop. Post-production editing might play heavily into a fine-art photographer’s work with the use of Instagramlike filter treatments and other adjustments.

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ABOVE, Annie and Eaman Hai have an organic moment with their son (Derk’s Works Photography); BELOW, Ariana and Eric Harris share a laugh during their first dance (Style & Story).

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What It Means It’s important to know that very few wedding photographers shoot exclusively in one style, even if they describe themselves that way. For example, a highly stylized, editorial or fine art photographer will—or should— capture candid photos on your wedding day, and similarly, a documentary photographer should still be able to coordinate those allimportant formal photos.

Ben Hartley, head photographer with Style & Story, says that his team approaches wedding photography like a Venn diagram, with editorial (or styled) vibes in one circle and a documentary (or story) approach in the other.

“We want to be in the middle, where it’s very real and authentic, because honestly 134

COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

there’s nothing that we can fabricate or stage or produce that’s more interesting to a couple,” he says. “In a lot of ways, we do find ourselves almost crossing the bridge multiple times, depending on the client.”

For Chris Keels of Christopher Keels Photographer, who describes his work as a blend of documentary and portrait-focused, it’s all about facilitating a beautiful moment.

“You’re creating opportunities for photos,” he says. “If I didn’t have to pose a shot, I wouldn’t. But I live in the real world, so I know that we have to sort of direct some things.” That means, for example, positioning a bride in a spot with good lighting as she’s getting ready. “It’s almost like cooking: You’re not going to be a great cook with just OK ingredients,” Keels explains. In this case,

LEFT, An intimate shot from Sarah and Andrew Schreiber’s wedding (Nicole Dixon Photographic); BELOW, Katie and Dean Nusbaum share a kiss during their sparkler exit (Sanchez Studio).

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Photography is full of industry-specific jargon— more than we could hope to cover in a single article. Here are just a few terms and phrases that you might encounter during your search for the perfect photographer.

Natural light – Any light that comes from the sun or a reflection of it. Natural light is preferred over flashes or other artificial lighting by many photographers; some even shoot exclusively in natural lighting. Contrary to popular belief, full sun is not ideal for photos; it creates harsh shadows and can cause subjects to squint if they have to face it. Rather, a fully overcast day—think flat, but bright, gray skies—provides ideal, even, flattering natural light.

SOOC – This acronym stands for “straight out of camera” and refers to a photo that hasn’t been edited at all. Photojournalists often work with SOOC images, while documentary and naturalist photographers may want their images to appear as though they’re SOOC even when they’ve been lightly edited.

Light and airy – This phrase describes an approach to shooting and editing that produces soft, light colors with low contrast and lots of—you guessed it—light. This style can quickly become washed out or overexposed when attempted by someone who isn’t familiar with the style, but when done right, the result can be very romantic and upbeat.

Dark and moody – By contrast, this style focuses on deep, vibrant, dark tones with lots of contrast.

The overall image may be a bit dark, but the subject will still be clearly visible and may even be lit specifically for dramatic effect. While light and airy images often feel upbeat, dark and moody ones feel more somber, without becoming gloomy.

Temperature – No, this isn’t referring to the number on the thermometer. In photography, the temperature—how “cool” or “warm” a photo appears—describes the color family that’s most prominent in the image as a whole. Photos that have more blue tones throughout appear cooler, while those with more yellow in them are warmer.

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how a photographer composes a photo—the lighting, the styling of the elements in the frame and more—are the ingredients.

Naturalist Nicole Dixon, of Nicole Dixon Photographic, takes a similar approach.

“I’m really looking for those natural qualities so that [the photos] don’t look superstaged,” she says. “I want them to pop on their own, rather than being over-stylized.”

Husband-and-wife duo Caleb and Meg Sanchez, of Sanchez Studio, take that mentality a few steps further. Their candid, documentary approach to the wedding day means they don’t enjoy telling people where to stand or how to pose—but they don’t let that stop them from capturing posed photos of the bridal party or the couple’s families.

“We really do endeavor to kind of make those moments feel candid,” Caleb explains.

“It’s not like we scream at them, ‘Look candid!’ It’s more like we’re giving them prompts; we’re stepping back and giving them a moment to talk about the day, to have time together, just themselves, and then kind of creeping forward [to take the photo] as they get more comfortable.”

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A scene-setting shot from Devyn and David Reing’s ceremony. (Sanchez Studio)

Finding Your Style Being armed with the information you need to select your wedding photographer is important. Here’s why: Googling “documentary wedding photographer in Columbus” yields 1.93 million results in under a second, and “editorial wedding photographer in Columbus” yields nearly three times as many hits.

Referrals from friends and family are a good place to start, as are Instagram and Pinterest. Make a note of the images that you’re drawn to, even if the photographer who took them isn’t local.

“When you see a certain wedding photo,” Caleb suggests, “[ask yourself], ‘How is this speaking to me?’ ” If that’s too esoteric to nail down, try to recognize how a certain photo makes you feel.

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“People react to photography emotionally,” Keels says. “It’s about identifying what photos you keep [coming back to].

What emotions in the photo do you resonate with?”

Armed with the knowledge of the style of photography you like and shots that resonate with you, you’ll be ready to narrow down a list of photographers based on their online galleries and, possibly, their “About Me” pages. As you’re perusing the online galleries, Hartley suggests looking for two main elements: longevity—how long the photographer has been in the biz—and consistency.

“Consistency really is everything,” he says.

“Anybody can get a bull’s-eye, but can they get a bull’s-eye three times in a row?”

When you’re ready to start meeting with photographers—and you should plan to

meet with several before making a decision—come armed with that arsenal of favorite shots and the words or emotions you use to describe them. Talk to your potential photographer about what you like, why you like it and whether it matches their style.

And while most photographers can incorporate an element or two that’s outside their norms, be wary of any who readily agree to break with their own typical style to get your business.

“I actually had a couple come to me last month, and they really liked me and they thought they liked my work,” Dixon says.

“But the further along [the bride] got, I was like, I’m not what she’s looking for. So I gave her a few names of local photographers that were more suited to her stylistically, and she was very appreciative of that.”

You’ll know that a photographer is The One if you like both their work and their personality.

“It’s about more than just being there to click the button down,” Caleb says. “It’s about creating something beforehand that creates more of a relationship between the four of us.”

“And then when the couple trusts us,” Meg adds, “the entire family trusts us and the bridal party trusts us, and we just get these incredible moments all day long because we’re able to have this really awesome relationship with everyone. Those candid moments just happen in front of us because we’re already really comfortable, and we just kind of let ourselves melt into what’s happening all day.”

A photographer’s personality has another effect on the wedding day, says Hartley. It’s tied in closely with shooting style—a laidback photographer will be more of a fly on the wall, while a Type-A one will be more hands-on in posing couples, for example.

When a photographer’s personality meshes with your own, it makes the day more enjoyable for you and ensures the photographer can provide the types of photos you want.

Hartley says that in terms of importance, a photographer’s personality and quality of work should be almost 50/50—or rather, 51/49. That slight majority of 51 percent should be given to the photographer’s personality, because he or she will be by your side throughout the entire wedding day. A bad fit there can spell disaster.

“That’s why I really tie personality in so much with shooting style,” Hartley says, “because it’s really what you’re going to remember. They kind of shape a lot of that day.”

January

12 & 13 • 2019 •

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A Work of Art Incorporating public artwork into wedding photos

BY ABERNATHY MILLER-RINEHART By the time Michael Wenter and Gabrielle (Seeder) Wenter stood before 113 wedding guests and said “I do” in the Hamilton Ballroom of Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph, they had already been married for the better part of an hour.

Michael and Gabrielle actually became man and wife 45 minutes earlier when they signed the ketubah, a traditional Jewish wedding contract, eight floors up in the Presidential Suite. It was an intimate moment, reserved for close friends and family members. (You can read more about ketubot and other Jewish wedding traditions in our photo essay on Page 72.)

The couple’s photographer, Sarah Williamson of Together We Click, captured the Wenters’ first moments of matrimony.

In the striking photo, the beaming couple proudly hold their newly signed ketubah, flanked by a fuchsia-splashed painting by Sarah Fairchild.

“That was the moment we were legally married. The artwork made the moment even more beautiful,” Michael says.

That wasn’t the only artwork featured in their wedding photos, however; the Wenters’ wedding portraits include several shots taken in the lobby of the hotel, where public displays from the private collection of local art enthusiast Ron Pizzuti can be found.

The Wenters are part of the growing number of couples to include public artwork in their wedding photos. From street art to pieces in a hotel or venue, art has become a go-to backdrop for Insta-worthy shots on the big day. Whether you’re looking to add a location-specific dimension or capture your personal aesthetic, we’ve got the insider tips on where to go, what to consider and how to plan your art-inspired wedding photos.

“The more artwork goes in Downtown, the more brides I have asking to include it in their photos,” Williamson says. “It’s like a picture within a picture.”

Williamson, one half of the Together We Click team (the other half being her husband, Jared Williamson) has seen the trend gain momentum both in Columbus and across the U.S. 138

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TOP, Lindsay Casher loves the contrast between this Short North mural and her bridesmaids’ gowns. The piece, called “tending gardens of ash and symmetry,” is part of the Six in the Short North temporary mural series. (Brett Loves Elle Photography); BOTTOM, Sheela and Ryan Jorgenson take photos with their bridal party in front of another Six in the Short North mural; this one, by Aminah Robinson, is called “Passing Through Logtown, Georgia.”

(Christopher Keels Photographer)

From the juxtaposition of formal wedding attire against an urban landscape to documenting the exact time and place of the nuptials, vibrant public works (both commissioned and otherwise) inject a healthy dose of personality into any wedding album.

“It brings a sense of local artistry to the place where they tied the knot,” Williamson says. “It captures the moment.”

Bride Lindsey Casher has experienced firsthand how public artwork can make for the most memorable wedding photos.

One of Casher’s favorite photos from her Sept. 8, 2017, wedding is the shot of her and her bridesmaids in front of a candycolored mural installation in the Short North Arts District.

“It’s what was most important for me, to capture our personalities and the essence of

the day in our photos,” Casher says. “Most of my pictures were pretty muted, so including [the street art] set off my bridesmaids’ dresses and embodied the soul of the moment.”

But as Williamson will tell you, scouting the perfect locale for an effortlessly beautiful photo is more work than the Pinterest pins would have you believe. With new works popping up all over the city, it’s important to plan ahead to get the absolute best result.

The most important thing to think about when choosing a location is why it’s special to you and your spouse. Neighborhood-centric murals near your home, landmarks around the venue or a piece of art that embodies your personalities make the best shots.

“Great pictures mirror what the subjects in the artwork are doing,” Williamson says.

She suggests channeling the theme of the

Michael and Gabrielle Wenter pose in front of a lobby installation at Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph.

(Together We Click)

A funky “monster” car installation in Franklinton set a great scene for Luke Johnson and his groomsmen.

(Hillary Ferguson Photography)

WHERE TO GO

New and interesting public artwork is popping up around the city all the time … but Columbus couples and photographers definitely have some favorites. Here are few of the best-loved spots for envy-inspiring wedding shots: The Columbus/Love light installation: This spot near East Main Street and Fourth Avenue is perfect for the couple that’s in love with Columbus and each other.

The “Rolling in Love” wall at Pins Mechanical Co.: Romance and duckpin bowling? What else is there?

The “Short North Gothic” mural: Nothing screams kitsch like the Short North mainstay at North High Street and East Lincoln Street.

Photographer Benjamin Derkin got creative by incorporating this Columbus Museum of Art dock door for Jacqueline and Corbin Ricker’s portraits.

(Derk’s Works Photography)

artwork, whether it’s stoic (like the “American Gothic” mural in the Short North) or vibrant and playful (like the “Rolling in Love” mural at Pins Mechanical Co.) into your own photos.

The key to attaining the perfect shot anywhere is to plan ahead, but according to Williamson, shooting outdoors alongside public artwork has its own set of special considerations.

Williamson suggests picking spots that aren’t surrounded by parking meters, construction barrels or anything else that could clutter the frame. Decide beforehand who you want in the photo, and keep the number of extraneous people to a minimum. If a person included in the picture has accessibility issues, make sure the location can accommodate them.

It’s always a good idea to allow for extra parking and walking time when scheduling

Franklinton in general: The up-and-coming neighborhood is home to a bustling art scene, so it goes without saying the neighborhood’s street art—commissioned and otherwise—is top-notch. with your photographer and wedding party.

Be mindful of foot traffic, and avoid busy locations or times of day if possible.

“Lighting can be a challenge,” Williamson says. “You don’t want to be in the direct sunlight; you won’t have the best result.” Instead, look for areas that have “open shade”—that is, a wide-open space where the sun will still be blocked by a roof or wall.

Let your photographer know which elements of the artwork you want to highlight.

Make sure that the time of day you’re shooting and the location’s natural light correspond with your desired result.

And of course, if your desired spot is in or near a private business or residence, always call ahead.

“It’s always best to be respectful with a public place,” Williamson says. “Luckily we haven’t run into this, but I’ve heard of wedding parties being asked to leave.”

The Columbus Museum of Art: In addition to its elevated and modern feel, CMA offers tons of natural (read: flattering) light.

Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph: The variety of artwork featured at the Short North’s posh hotel is a reason enough to book a room.

Glen Echo Park tunnel: For a shot with lots of attitude, this Clintonville location is a must.

If you want to include a beautiful work of art in your photos but don’t have time (or energy) to scout out locations for the big day, do what both the Cashers and the Wenters did—trust your photographer. “[Sarah] did an amazing job choosing the shots and backgrounds to capture the wedding and the artwork,” Michael Wenter says. “We wanted pictures that we could look back on and say, ‘That was such an amazing day,’ and that’s what we got.”

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We took some pictures at night outside with sunglasses, and they turned out really cool. The lighting at night … looked like an ad in a magazine.

—Eaman Hai, who married Annie Hai on Oct. 14, 2017, at The Vault (Derk’s Works Photography)

Our Favorite Photo Four couples share the shots that make them swoon.

We have countless favorite photos from the real-wedding submissions in this issue of Columbus Weddings, so it’s no surprise to learn that the couples featured had their own plethora of top picks for top pic. A few are featured here; see even more (and submit your own) each Tuesday on our blog at cbuswedmag.com/Bustled.

—Emma Frankart Henterly

We went back to our ceremony site at dusk [for portraits]. The clouds and hanging lights at dusk gave off a cool vibe.

—Aaron Rodger, who married Jaimie Rodger on June 9, 2018, at The Trout Club (Sanchez Studio)

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I love the love in [the photo of] my stepdaughter, husband and myself.

—Shelby Jurden, who married Nicklaus Jurden on March 3, 2018, at The Athletic Club of Columbus (AddVision)

My favorite photo is a close-up of us under my veil.

I love this picture because you can see how much we love and care about each other in this photo. You can see it in all of our pictures, but when you look at this one you can feel it!

—Erin Mitchell, who wed Jim Mitchell on April 21, 2018, at the Club at Corazón (Forget Me Knot Photography)

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Say Cheese!

KEEP CALM AND

Four tips for easing photo jitters

BY RYLAN LEE

For many couples, the engagement session will be your first experience taking professional photos together. Understandably, there can be a lot of anxiety that comes along with that realization. You might be worried about not being photogenic. You might feel nervous if your photographer is a complete stranger to you and your partner, and one you’ve only met briefly before the shoot.

Even professional photographer Hillary Ferguson, of Hillary Ferguson Photography, found herself thrown off when she stood on the other end of the lens for her own engagement photos. “I tell people how to pose and do things all the time,” Ferguson recalls, “but when I was on the other end, I was so awkward!”

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It’s natural to feel odd with a lens and (metaphorical, but maybe literal) spotlight on you.

But we’re here to allay your engagement photo fears with four tips to help you enjoy taking the photos almost as much as you’ll enjoy looking at them for the many years to come.

Tip #1—Feed off Your Partner For some, engagement photos are a point of excitement in the wedding preparations— Pinterest boards abound, and countless work hours have been spent daydreaming.

But for others, that initial photo session is, at best, a chore; at worst, it’s a point of dread. All of a sudden, you’ll be face to face with a camera—and a stranger behind it—while being asked to “act natural.”

TOP, Katie Opfer and Travis Simmons relax in front of an ivy-covered wall; BOTTOM, An intimate moment during Jaimee Walt and Ryan Wheeler’s engagement session (both Hillary Ferguson Photography).

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP, Laura Mustard and Trevor Arnett cuddle up during an autumn engagement session; Alexandria Gifford and Justin Searcy share a giggle during their photos (both Forget Me Knot Photography); Lindsey Williams and Michael Casher pose with a blue smoke bomb near a lake. (Brett Loves Elle Photography).

shoot. This will not only help both of you relax, but it can also help you transition away from the typical engagement poses.

Of course, you’ll have plenty of those, too, but dreamy, one-of-a-kind candids will only come from organic interactions.

Tip #2—Pick a Meaningful Setting

“I was a little bit nervous,” recalls Laura (Mustard) Arnett, who married Trevor Arnett on May 26. But Trevor? “Trevor doesn’t really get nervous,” Laura says with an air of relief.

Often, says Ferguson, one half of the engaged couple is more comfortable with the photo session than the other. So she recommends to do as you’ve done for all your relationship: Rely on each other and compromise for one another.

“The couple knows each other best,” says Ferguson, “so they know how to feed off each other and laugh together, and that’s kind of where the real emotion comes out.”

And if you’re the more excited half, try telling your partner jokes or remind him or her of a shared memory during the

“I always like to have some sort of special meaning involved,” says Ferguson of helping couples select their shoot locations.

A sure-fire way to make any uncomfortable situation better is to be with a special person (check!) and in a familiar place.

With this in mind, one of the best ways to combat any first-time photo nerves is to pick a place in which you and your partner are comfortable. It could be the place you met, your favorite date-night spot or just a regular haunt—anywhere you have memories together.

Comfort Witcher, of Comfort Photography, agrees that she sees a noticeable difference with couples who pick a place with meaning, but says it can be anywhere with sentimental value. Last summer, she journeyed an hour outside of Columbus to shoot a couple’s engagement photos at SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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a farm that had been in the groom’s family since the 1800s. “I find that if they have a location like that in mind, they’re going to automatically feel more comfortable,” she says.

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Tip #3—Trust Your Photographer If Arnett has one piece of advice for other soon-to-wed couples, it’s this: “Find yourself an awesome photographer.”

Indeed, a good photographer will make a world of difference. He or she will get to know the couple, make jokes and brighten up the mood of a shoot. “Anybody’s going to feel awkward with a camera just in their face.

I find that awkward silence is not good at all.

So I just kind of get them joking, laughing, having fun,” explains Witcher.

A good photographer will also guide couples through the photo session. “A common question a lot of couples ask me is, ‘Do we have to come up with our own ideas?’ ” says Ferguson. The answer?

No—you can come in with ideas, Ferguson notes, but you can also leave a lot of that heavy lifting to the photographer. “That’s why you hire me. You like my work,” Ferguson says with a laugh.

Plus, your engagement photos are a great way to get comfortable with your photographer before your wedding. “You don’t want to feel those nerves on your wedding day for the first time,” Witcher says. “The engagement session is a good time to get some of that out of the way and to learn how your photographer interacts with you guys.”

Tip #4—Enjoy the Process We know, we know: This one is easier said than done. But just think of your engagement photo session as a concrete block of time you get to spend with your partner.

And on top of that, the old adage is true—things do get better with time, and your engagement photo session will be no different. Wherever you are on the Richter scale of professional photo jitters before the session, you will get more comfortable as the session goes on, Ferguson says.

“By the time we’re into the mid-session, people are really relaxed and comfortable, and it kind of seems like second nature,” she notes.

“Everything goes so fast,” adds Arnett.

“In the wedding-planning process, everything seems so nerve-wracking. But [your engagement photos are] one of those things you really need to enjoy.”

So soak up the quality time with your partner during the photo shoot, and enjoy the small beginning to your celebration of spending a lifetime together.

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BY EMMA FRANKART HENTERLY Almost no one will argue that finding the right photographer for your wedding is imperative, but fewer people are certain about videography.

When the budget is an issue, this is often one of the first services to get cut—and according to Julie and Chris Hedrick, owners of Blue Skies HD Video, it’s one of the first things that couples regret cutting.

“A common theme we’re seeing, this year in particular, is all of these people who don’t do video, and the week of the wedding or two weeks out from the wedding, they call, freaking out,” says Julie. “All of a sudden, they want a videographer. That’s happened six times this year, which is crazy because we don’t often have the dates available, because we book 18 months out.”

So what is their tip for avoiding this lastminute panic, while still leaving flexibility to adjust the budget early in the planning process?

“At least get your deposits down, then they can figure out their package whenever,” Chris says. “That allows them to better home in on their actual budget; that way they’re only putting $250 down to block the day, and that gives them another year to figure out the package.”

Nicole Dixon Photographic Blue Skies offers roughly seven packages, Chris says, while most other companies only offer a few. They range from a single camera recording the ceremony only to two videographers with three cameras capturing everything from the rehearsal and pre-wedding-day interviews with the couple to photo montages and a bulk of the reception.

“A common booking is two videographers, and they choose the getting ready” portion of the day in addition to the ceremony and formal reception events, Chris says.

When it comes to selecting a videographer to book, Chris says companies’ sample videos are everything. “I always encourage people to look at the samples they’re showing you, and you either like it or you don’t,” he explains, while cautioning that couples shouldn’t strive to recreate any one video exactly. “Every wedding is different. … We’re trying to capture the actual feel of what’s happening and not try to create a feel.”

“The big thing is, when you do find a vendor that you like, book them, because tomorrow or the next day or next week or next month, they could be gone,” Chris says.

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Real Weddings Inside the albums of 12 couples’ Central Ohio weddings

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER KEELS PHOTOGRAPHER

BY EMMA FRANKART HENTERLY

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real weddings images

Jennifer Alicea & Nathan Bruggeman May 19, 2018 Jennifer and Nathan Bruggeman, both Columbus police officers, knew they wanted to honor their vocations in their ceremony. They met during a call for service, after all. “I heard him speaking to a citizen and immediately fell in love with his country charm,” Jennifer recalls. She even commissioned a groom’s cake in the shape of the cruiser Nathan was driving the night they met—right down to the car number! Her brother made sure Nathan’s country roots were honored too, with a white Stetson cowboy hat, which Nathan found waiting in his groom’s suite on the big day.

Vendors CEREMONY, RECEPTION, CATERER: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens PHOTOGRAPHER: AddVision BRIDE: Mori Lee gown from Brides & Beyond (St. Henry, Ohio), veil from Amazon, shoes and accessories from Macy’s HAIR: Tame Salons GROOM, GROOMSMEN: Tuxedos rented from Men’s Wearhouse

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REHEARSAL DINNER: Brio Tuscan Grille CAKE: The Suisse Shop Bakery FLOWERS: Faulks Event Studio MUSIC: Columbus String Quartet and Sensational Sounds Unlimited PHOTO BOOTH: The Columbus Photobooth Co. INVITATIONS: Shutterfly.com TRANSPORTATION: Grandiose Limousines

RINGS: Diamond Cellar

ACCOMMODATIONS: Hilton Columbus at Easton

BRIDESMAIDS: Vera Wang gowns from David’s Bridal

SUNDAY BRUNCH: Maid of honor’s home, catered by Corner Bakery SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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Vendors CEREMONY: Holy Cross Catholic Church RECEPTION, CATERER, ACCOMMODATIONS, SUNDAY BRUNCH: Hilton Columbus Downtown PHOTOGRAPHER: Aimee Thomas Photography

Stephanie Weber & Nathaniel Marks Aug. 4, 2018 College sweethearts Stephanie and Nathaniel Marks have fond memories of the defunct Park Street Patio, where they met through mutual friends. When the time came to propose, the bar had closed and the building sold, but Nathaniel made arrangements with the developer for a special visit. “There were rose petals and candles when we arrived,” Stephanie says. The dramatics didn’t end there, however. On their wedding day, the best man and maid of honor speeches incorporated a video they made themselves, and at the end of the reception, “somehow a giant cartwheel contest broke out,” Stephanie recalls.

BRIDE: Essense of Australia gown and a veil from Wendy’s Bridal, Jessica Simpson shoes, accessories from Tiffany & Co., Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s MAKEUP: E Marie’s Salon & Spa GROOM, GROOMSMEN: Tuxedos from Men’s Wearhouse RINGS: Sawchuk Jewelers BRIDESMAIDS: David’s Bridal gowns REHEARSAL DINNER: Rodizio Brazilian Steakhouse CAKE: The Suissse Shop Bakery FLOWERS: Botanica Flowers CEREMONY MUSIC: The Elegant Harp RECEPTION MUSIC, PHOTO BOOTH: Buckeye Sounds VIDEOGRAPHER: Columbus Wedding Videos INVITATIONS: Blue Daisy Design CONSULTANT: Devoted to Details TRANSPORTATION: VIP Nightlife

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real weddings images Vendors CEREMONY, RECEPTION, CATERER: The Venue at dock580 PHOTOGRAPHER: Brett Loves Elle Photography BRIDE: Essense of Australia gown and a veil from Wendy’s Bridal, shoes from Nordstrom, accessories from BHLDN and Nordstrom HAIR, MAKEUP: Blake Rose Salon GROOM, GROOMSMEN: Suits from Pursuit RINGS: Worthington Jewelers

Lindsey Williams & Michael Casher Sept. 8, 2017 Gracie—Lindsey and Michael Casher’s dog—was intimately involved in the couple’s big day. It started with the proposal itself, when Michael “went off to find some sticks” for Gracie to play with. When he and Gracie returned, the pup had some additions to her collar: a tag reading, “Marry my dad?” and a ring. “He knew I could never say no to her!” Lindsey says.

Just over a year later, Gracie trotted down the aisle ahead of her momma. “Every last moment of the day was special,” Lindsey says. “It was all such a whirlwind.”

BRIDESMAIDS: Azazie gowns REHEARSAL DINNER: Due Amici CAKE: The Suisse Shop Bakery FLOWERS: DeSantis Florist MUSIC: Platinum Music Productions PHOTO BOOTH: The Columbus Photobooth Co. INVITATIONS: Minted.com TRANSPORTATION: Classic Limousines of Columbus ACCOMMODATIONS: Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph SATURDAY BRUNCH: Ohio State tailgate, catered by Carfagna’s Catering

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Sheela Yomekpe & Ryan Jorgenson June 2, 2018 A shared love of flying first brought Sheela and Ryan Jorgenson together as NetJets employees. Ryan was a pilot, and Sheela had learned to fly during college. After becoming fast friends, the pair realized their “feelings for one another had grown into something more,” Sheela says. When she landed her dream job as a biomedical flight controller for NASA, Ryan followed her to Houston—though he waited until a holiday visit to pop the question amid Columbus Commons’ light display. They toasted their engagement at Little Palace, then returned to do the same for a wedding-day photo op.

Vendors CEREMONY: St. Catharine Church RECEPTION, CATERER: Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph PHOTOGRAPHER: Christopher Keels Photographer

BRIDESMAIDS: Adrianna Papell gowns from Macy’s and Bardot gowns from Nordstrom REHEARSAL DINNER: Café Istanbul CAKE: Alice’s Piece of Cake

BRIDE: Allure gown from Weddings

by Debbie (Katy, Texas), veil from Beautiful U Bridal Veil & Accessories (Houston, Texas), shoes from Macy’s with custom alterations, owned and “something borrowed” jewelry

INVITATIONS: Paper Source

HAIR: Valerie Koch at Salon Lofts

TRANSPORTATION: Cardinal Transportation

MAKEUP: MM Creative Studios GROOM, GROOMSMEN: Tuxedos from Jos. A. Bank

ACCOMMODATIONS: Hilton Columbus Downtown, Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph

RINGS: Bailey Banks & Biddle

SUNDAY BRUNCH: The Guild House

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FLOWERS: Botanica 215 MUSIC: D&M DJ Entertainment

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Jacqueline Dennis & Corbin Ricker March 24, 2018 A chance meeting atop the LeVeque Tower Garage during Red, White & Boom brought Jacqueline and Corbin Ricker together.

After a long friendship, during which Jacqueline remembers Corbin “falling in love with me before I even had that thought in my mind,” the two finally began dating. “I saw that our friendship was slowly turning into our love story,” Jacqueline says. “It was a feeling I have never experienced before.” Family is important to the couple: Corbin proposed while both families were gathered for Christmas dinner, and he wears his father’s wedding band in honor of his late mother.

Vendors CEREMONY: First Congregational Church

ICE SCULPTURE: Rock On Ice

RECEPTION: Ohio Statehouse

CAKE: Le Gateau

PHOTOGRAPHER, VIDEOGRAPHER, PHOTO BOOTH: Derk’s Works Photography

SWEETS TABLE: Carrie’s Sugar Buzz

BRIDE: Paloma Blanca gown and Sara Gabriel veil from La Jeune Mariee, Jimmy Choo shoes, accessories from Sakasci Diamonds, vintage jewelry MAKEUP: Makeup by Anne Girton

FLOWERS: Madison House Designs MUSIC: New Albany Symphony, Mark Dantzer INVITATIONS: Avant-Garde Impressions CONSULTANT: Ashley Stephan Weddings and Events

GROOM, GROOMSMEN: Vera Wang suits from Men’s Wearhouse RINGS: Sakasci Diamonds and heirlooms BRIDESMAIDS: Jenny Yoo gowns from Gilded Social REHEARSAL DINNER: Smith & Wollensky

TRANSPORTATION: Classic Limousines of Columbus, Bexley Beat ACCOMMODATIONS: Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel, Sheraton Columbus at Capitol Square

RECEPTION CATERER: Cameron Mitchell Premier Events RENTALS: Event Source, Dalay Ket Event Design, Connie Duglin Linen SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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Erin Osborne & Jim Mitchell April 21, 2018 Erin and Jim Mitchell’s first encounter wasn’t exactly fortuitous— he bumped into her at a bar, spilling her beer all over her. After replacing her drink, “we started talking and went on our first date the next week,” Erin recalls. When their wedding day arrived, a last-minute decision to do a first look turned out for the best.

“I will never forget our first look,” Erin says. “It not only created the most beautiful pictures, but it gave Jim and I some alone time to soak all of the small details in before the day started.”

Vendors CEREMONY, RECEPTION, CATERER: Club at Corazón PHOTOGRAPHER: Forget Me Knot Photography BRIDE: Casablanca gown from Wendy’s Bridal, shoes from Nordstrom, accessories from David’s Bridal HAIR, MAKEUP: Eye Do Hair and Makeup LLC GROOM, GROOMSMEN: Suits from Men’s Wearhouse RINGS: Jared, the Galleria of Jewelry BRIDESMAIDS: Vera Wang gowns from David’s Bridal REHEARSAL DINNER, ACCOMMODATIONS: Courtyard by Marriott Columbus Dublin CAKE: Family friend FLOWERS: The Flowerman MUSIC, PHOTO BOOTH: Buckeye Entertainment INVITATIONS: Shutterfly.com SUNDAY BRUNCH: Scrambler Marie’s

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Jaimee Walt & Ryan Wheeler May 26, 2018 When Jaimee and Ryan Wheeler first met, he was speechless—literally. “We were both at a house party and talked all night,” Jaimee explains, “but Ryan had lost his voice and had to use the Notes app on his phone from time to time so I could understand what he was saying. It was so cute!” Equally cute were their parents—after the Wheelers’ first dance, both sets of parents danced to “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross, which was the song for their first dances at their own weddings.

Vendors CEREMONY, RECEPTION, CATERER: Scioto Reserve Country Club PHOTOGRAPHER: Hillary Ferguson Photography BRIDE: Pronovias gown and a veil from The Dress (Medina, Ohio), shoes from DSW, accessories from Nordstrom GOWN PRESERVATION: Rockwood Dry Cleaners HAIR: Valerie Koch of Salon Lofts MAKEUP: Kay Collections of Beauty GROOM, GROOMSMEN: Tuxedos from Men’s Wearhouse RINGS: Worthington Jewelers BRIDESMAIDS: Azazie gowns

REHEARSAL DINNER: Kinsale Golf Club CAKE: The Cake Studio OTHER DESSERTS: The Honey Bee Bakery (Medina, Ohio) FLOWERS: Petals & Leaves MUSIC: Music Express PHOTO BOOTH: Sound Impressions INVITATIONS: Michael’s PROGRAMS: Minted.com ACCOMMODATIONS: Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center, Hilton Columbus/Polaris SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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Christine Varian & Brian Palmiero Sept. 8, 2018 Musicians Christine and Brian Palmiero had been acquaintances for a long time, but it wasn’t until a mutual friend’s going-away party that Brian worked up the nerve to ask Christine out. To pop the question, he was a little less straightforward. Brian told Christine that he was taking her to a fancy dinner to celebrate her birthday, then asked their waiter to take a photo. Little did Christine know that the “photo” was actually a video, capturing the moment when Brian dropped to one knee. Six months later, the two married in what Christine describes as an emotional, personal ceremony.

Vendors CEREMONY, RECEPTION, CATERER: Pinnacle Golf Club PHOTOGRAPHER: Lambert Photographs BRIDE: Galina Signature gown, a veil and accessories from David’s Bridal, shoes from Macy’s HAIR: Rachael Varian’s Hair Art MAKEUP: Robbie Banks Onsite Makeup Artistry GROOM, GROOMSMEN: Tuxedos from American Commodore RINGS: Helzburg Diamonds BRIDESMAIDS: David’s Bridal gowns REHEARSAL DINNER, ACCOMMODATIONS, SUNDAY BRUNCH: Drury Inn & Suites CAKE: The Cake Studio FLOWERS: Hilliard Floral MUSIC: Josh Staley Productions VIDEOGRAPHER: Joshua Herald INVITATIONS: Minted.com 154

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real weddings images Vendors CEREMONY: St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic Church RECEPTION: The Ivory Room PHOTOGRAPHER: Nicole Dixon Photographic BRIDE: Monique Lhuillier gown from La Jeune Mariee, veil from Ivy Bridal (closed), shoes from Nordstrom, accessories from Ivy Bridal and BHLDN GOWN PRESERVATION: New Albany Cleaners HAIR: Stile Salon & Spa MAKEUP: Samantha LoScudo GROOM, GROOMSMEN: Tuxedos from Men’s Wearhouse RINGS: Jewelry by Michael BRIDESMAIDS: Gowns from Nordstrom and David’s Bridal REHEARSAL DINNER: Lindey’s Restaurant RECEPTION CATERER: Cameron Mitchell Premier Events RENTALS: Aiden & Grace, Event Source

Megan Waldmann & Ric Diedalis June 2, 2018 Megan and Ric Diedalis first met in high school—Ric was friends with Megan’s brother—but didn’t realize they had feelings for one another until they both graduated from college. For their wedding, Megan and her mother planned “every single detail of the reception and the ceremony,” Megan says. “Every detail was thought out, down to the trays that the cookies were served on and the late-night bites that were brought in, which were special for Ric and I.” Her favorite elements? The mirrored seating chart and the monogrammed mirror that hung behind the head table.

CAKE: The Suisse Shop Bakery FLOWERS: Vessel Floral and Event Design MUSIC: Night Music VIDEOGRAPHER: Cinemachine INVITATIONS: Rock Paper Sisters ACCOMMODATIONS: The Westin Great Southern Columbus SUNDAY BRUNCH: Westie’s Gastropub

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Eliza Phillians & Justin Lee June 2, 2018 Surprises are kind of a thing for Eliza and Justin Lee. He surprised her with a graduation party when she finished her bachelor’s degree, then surprised her again by proposing at the event, turning it into an engagement party. Eliza, not to be outdone, had a trick up her own sleeve for the wedding. Unbeknownst to Justin, she arranged for a friend of the Lee family to deliver her to the ceremony via horse and carriage. The most memorable part of the day, Eliza says, wasn’t that grand entrance; it was signing their marriage license as husband and wife.

Vendors REHEARSAL DINNER, CEREMONY, RECEPTION: The Barn at Stratford PHOTOGRAPHER: Sanchez Studio BRIDE: Ti Adora gown from B. Loved Bridal Boutique, veil handmade by bride’s grandmother, shoes from Dillard’s, “something borrowed” accessories

RINGS: Kay Jewelers BRIDESMAIDS: Jenny Yoo and Watters and Watters gowns from Bridal and Formal (Cincinnati, Ohio) RECEPTION CATERER: Buckeye Boys BBQ CAKE: Laurie Gorton

GOWN PRESERVATION: T&N Dry Cleaners

FLOWERS: Hemmerly’s Flowers & Gifts (Marion, Ohio)

MAKEUP: ARC Artistry

MUSIC: Josh Staley Productions

GROOM, GROOMSMEN: Suits from Romanoff’s Classic Tuxedos

INVITATIONS: AnnsBridalBargains.com

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Reena Patel & Martin Tam Sept. 3, 2017 Reena and Martin Tam, both doctors, met during their residencies in Salt Lake City, Utah. After a few years of dating and just 10 months engaged, they were wed at the end of a weeklong celebration in Columbus. It combined elements of Reena’s Indian and Martin’s Chinese heritages, from a prewedding garba ceremony to a midday tea ceremony. “We also loved our first dance—the commitment to doing a choreographed dance, practicing and then having so much fun with it,” Reena says. Also memorable: her father inviting his closest friends who were without daughters to participate in the wedding.

Vendors CEREMONY, RECEPTION, SUNDAY BRUNCH: Greater Columbus Convention Center PHOTOGRAPHER, PHOTO BOOTH: Style & Story BRIDE: Lehenga purchased in India, shoes from Macy’s, accessories from Abhushan Jewelers HAIR, MAKEUP: Glamour Beauty Care GROOM: Sherwani purchased in India RINGS: Wasserman Jewel Galleries, Sara Hideko BRIDESMAIDS: Sari purchased in India GROOMSMEN: Kurta purchased in India RECEPTION CATERER: Saffron Indian Grill RENTALS: B3 Event Management, Ohio Lighted Dance Floors CAKE: Karen’s Custom Cakes MUSIC: Crown Entertainment VIDEOGRAPHER: Swatch Studios INVITATIONS: SudarshanCards.com ACCOMMODATIONS: Hilton Columbus Downtown SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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Vendors CEREMONY, RECEPTION, ACCOMMODATIONS: Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph PHOTOGRAPHER: Together We Click

Gabrielle Seeder & Michael Wenter June 23, 2018 Online dating proved successful for Gabrielle and Michael Wenter, who ventured to Third & Hollywood in Grandview for their first date. To propose, Michael returned to the restaurant—to the same table, in fact—and popped the question.

Their elegant wedding at Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph included many traditional Jewish elements, such as a beautifully illustrated ketubah. (You can see more about those traditions on Page 72.) The Wenters opted for a modern, gauzy take on the chuppah, which was cleverly recreated in Lego form as a décor element. Gabrielle’s highlight of the day? “Having all of our family and friends together to be with us,” she says.

BRIDE: Gown, veil and shoes from B. Loved Bridal Boutique GOWN PRESERVATION: Dublin Cleaners HAIR: Copper & Ash MAKEUP: Mukha GROOM, GROOMSMEN: Tuxedos from American Commodore RINGS: Diamond Cellar, Worthington Jewelers BRIDESMAIDS: Assorted gowns from various stores REHEARSAL DINNER: J. Liu Restaurant & Bar RECEPTION CATERER: Cameron Mitchell Premier Events CAKE: Le Gateau FLOWERS: Andy Elonich MUSIC: Grand Avenue Band INVITATIONS: Eva Stein TRANSPORTATION: Cardinal Transportation SUNDAY BRUNCH: Couple’s home

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planning

THE SHOW 160 • CONSULTANTS 162 • MUSIC 163 • INVITATIONS 168 HOTELS 170 • HONEYMOON 171 • IN YOUR WORDS 174 SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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planning the show

Talking Trends with Monte Durham The co-star of TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta, who will be the celebrity guest at the Columbus Weddings Show presented by Worthington Jewelers, discusses top trends and tips for planning your dream wedding. Don’t miss your chance to purchase a VIP meet-and-greet ticket to chat with Durham before his stage presentation at the show.

On Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta, Monte Durham helps brides-to-be find the gown of their dreams. But thanks to his background as a wedding planner, Durham has plenty of other advice to offer engaged couples. Read on for just a few of the topics he touched on during a recent chat, and be sure to attend the Columbus Weddings Show presented by Worthington Jewelers, Jan. 12-13 at the Ohio Expo Center’s Cardinal Hall, to see Durham live.

Here Comes the Bride We spoke with Durham shortly after New York Bridal Fashion Week in October, and he was full of feedback on the fashion forecast for bridal.

“A lot of people attribute it to Meghan Markle, the new Duchess of Sussex, but we saw a lot of simple gowns,” he says. “Coverage, not necessarily in long sleeves, but in higher necklines, cap sleeves.

And embellishment, meaning embroidery and sewing techniques as opposed to a lot of beading or bling.” Veils are becoming a key accessory again, “and we are seeing jewelry come back,” he says. “Very simple, no chandelier earrings until the reception.”

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LEFT, Monte Durham; ABOVE AND OPPOSITE PAGE, Scenes from the 2018 Columbus Weddings Show

To that end, Durham has some specific tips on a simple way to change your look from bridal at the ceremony to party hostess at the reception.

“Put three things in your purse: a smoky eye pencil, a red lipstick and chandelier earrings,” he says. “You take off your studs or drop earrings, put on the chandeliers. Roll your bottom lip with red and blot it. … And

then you take that smoky eye pencil, [line the] corners, bottom and top, of your eyelids and smudge it. And you’ve got a totally different look with three simple things.”

Make Room for the Groom “I’m predicting the men are going to have a stronger seat in [planning]. I’m seeing it already. It’s amazing—these guys are step-

PHOTOS: TOP, TODD YARRINGTON; MIDDLE LEFT AND RIGHT, EMMA FRANKART HENTERLY; BOTTOM, COURTESY MONTE DURHAM

BY EMMA FRANKART HENTERLY

ping up to the plate about this. It’s great,” Durham says. “They’re really [planning their wedding] as a joint effort. I think we’re going to see that trend continue.”

When it comes to what they’re actually wearing, Durham says current trends—navy blue suiting with brown shoes and belts—will continue. “And a lot of guys aren’t wearing tuxedos, unless it’s a very formal affair,” he says, adding that the addition of vests to a standard suit is rising in popularity as well.

Mum’s the Word “The most important thing, after you’ve gotten your dress and your attendees’— your maids’—is your mother,” Durham says. “Everybody wants their mom to look good.” His biggest tip for mothers of the bride and groom is to focus on color, not silhouette. “I tell them to look at the colors that are going to be in the wedding party and try to find a deeper shade or a shade in that family.”

Women with blue eyes look great in cool colors, Durham says, and brown eyes pair well with warm tones. If your mother has green eyes, burgundies and reds look wonderful. And if she’s blonde? “Don’t wear taupe or beige,” he cautions. “It washes you out all the way.”

And while the old rule about the mother of the bride choosing her gown before the mother of the groom can largely be ignored, the two should at least coordinate on their hem lengths. “You don’t want a cocktail length and a formal, because that would look like somebody didn’t get the message,” Durham says.

Please Be Seated

ABOUT THE SHOW

When: Jan. 12-13, 2019, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

PHOTOS: TOP, TODD YARRINGTON; BOTTOM, EMMA FRANKART HENTERLY

Where: Cardinal Hall at the Ohio Expo Center Cost: $10 advance purchase courtesy of Twirl at cbusweddings.com or $12 at the door. VIP meet-and-greet with Monte Durham is $25; price includes admission to the show. Parking is $5, cash only.

What to expect: Two fashion runway shows each day, showcasing the latest looks for men and women from local retailers; a stage presentation by Monte Durham each day; samples from local caterers and bakers; exclusive discounts on services provided by show vendors and the chance to win some of the thousands of dollars in prizes being given away, including a grand prize, $1,500 gift certificate to Worthington Jewelers.

“You’ve got to remember, your guests are going to be seated, for the most part, anywhere from 65 to 75 percent of the night or day,” Durham says. From predinner toasts to dessert and resting in between dance numbers, the tables are natural gathering places for guests. “So the table really needs to be a focus point.” To that end, flower arrangements are moving lower, sometimes even taking the form of a long cascade down the center in lieu of a table runner, Durham says, which facilitates easy conversation across the seats.

“I always say, give them something to read,” Durham adds. Whether it’s the story of how you met, how the proposal took place or even the meaning behind your somethings old, new, borrowed and blue, an anecdote printed on the back of the menu or on its own piece of card stock gives your guests “an idea of the importance of the day and the special attention to detail you gave it,” Durham says. “And it’s easy to do.”

Stay on Track The most important thing to keep in mind as you plan your wedding is your theme—stick to it or risk lacking cohesion in your carefully planned event.

“I tell brides to take out a business card and on the back of it, write three things that are important to you and your wedding,” Durham says. It could be sophisticated, elegant and understated; casual, energetic and interactive; or even romantic, soft and beautiful. Whatever those three key ideas are, they should be the impetus behind all your planning decisions. Keep the card in your purse or wallet, and pull it out when you’re choosing flowers, stationery fonts or even menu options. “It is so easy to get distracted,” Durham says, “and this just kind of brings it back home to you a little bit.”

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Destination: Columbus Tips for couples traveling to Central Ohio to be wed

BY ABBEY ANSPACH The term “destination wedding” needn’t be reserved for the sandy beaches of Florida or a place that requires a passport. For many couples, a destination wedding is a place formerly known as home and, for many of their guests, still is.

Wedding planner Emilie Duncan of Emilie Duncan Event Planning refers to this phenomenon as her “missing Buckeyes”—people who are originally from Columbus, have family in the area or went to school here, who later moved away. Due to their family bonds, fond memories or whatever else makes people love Columbus (the list could go on forever), these missing Buckeyes are choosing to make Columbus their wedding destination.

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task for anyone, but when you live outside of the city or state where you’ll marry, this can be especially true. So it comes as no surprise that nearly half of Duncan’s clients live elsewhere, she says. Her role as a wedding planner can be vital for helping to alleviate the challenges that come from living so far away.

Houston residents Sheela and Ryan Jorgenson traveled back to their former home of Columbus to marry in June 2018.

(Christopher Keels Photographer)

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Sheela and Ryan Jorgenson know these challenges all too well. While the couple met through work while living in Columbus, their jobs eventually took them to their current home in Houston, Texas. But with their mutual friends and memories in Columbus, not to mention most of Sheela’s family, the Arch City was the obvious choice for their wedding. That doesn’t mean it was always the most convenient, Sheela admits.

To prepare, Sheela spent countless hours online, researching venues, perusing pictures and reading reviews. “I remember being so stressed out about it at the time,” she says.

“We were just going off pictures, and quite often places don’t have the same feeling when you walk in, even if there are great pictures of it.” Ultimately, Sheela and Ryan ended up making a weekend trip to the city to look at venues, packing six appointments—as well as many impromptu visits—into two short days.

Duncan says that in her experience, the Jorgensons’ situation is one of the most common problems associated with trying to plan a wedding so far away.

“We pack a lot into the time when they are able to be in town. There are weekends when my couples come in and we will whirlwind around the city, seeing vendors and venues and tasting things and trying to pack as much as we can into a long weekend,” Duncan says. “When you’re doing a destination wedding, you need to be able to make a good decision a little bit more quickly [than in-town couples] and narrow down your choices a little bit more definitively.”

While Sheela decided to tackle everything on her own, sans planner, a big part of her decision for a venue was the accommodations it offered. Her venue, Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph, was a one-stop shop when it came to tables, cutlery, decorations, food and much more. Having an inclusive venue like Le Méridien or a planner such as Emilie Duncan can be crucial in dealing with the myriad decisions that are required when planning a wedding.

“It comes down to having the comfort of having somebody with the knowledge of weddings in Columbus, knowing all of the vendors, knowing the venues, understanding how to run a wedding, but then also how to help you plan the wedding,” says Duncan. “I tell my clients, you don’t know what you don’t know, and a good planner knows those things and can help you through them.”

music planning

Sarah Schreiber and a guest bust some moves to The Floorwalkers at her and Andrew Schreiber’s reception.

(Nicole Dixon Photographic)

Behind the Music What to consider when choosing a band or a DJ for your reception

BY NANCY BYRON

Streaming music from your iPhone over a Bluetooth speaker may seem like an easy way to shave a few dollars off your budget, but it’s a huge risk at a wedding reception.

“A lot of brides and grooms, because weddings are very expensive and they want to save money, will say, ‘Let’s get a friend who has a system,’ or ‘Let’s use an iPod,’ ” says Todd Jones, owner and founder of T.E.A.M. DJ. “Sometimes that can work out; sometimes that can go horribly wrong.”

Wireless speakers can cut out, for example, and—even more appalling—a guest could try to hijack the connection and play his or her own music. That could ruin the whole evening.

“Experience should be the No. 1 priority,” says Jones, who has been DJing since 1999. “The DJ

kind of runs the event … getting guests the maximum dance time while still fitting in the traditional dances and toasts. If you have an experienced person who knows how to run a timeline [and] something goes wrong, they know how to fix it as fast as possible.”

John Pollock, frontman and saxophonist for the Street Players, also lists experience among the top criteria couples should consider when selecting their reception entertainment.

“The main things are a versatile repertoire, a professional presence, experience, stability of musicianship, volume control and setup,” says Pollock, who founded the seven-member Street Players band with his brother in 1980. “We have to pay attention to how people react to the music SPRING/SUMMER 2019 COLUMBUS WEDDINGS

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The perfect music for...

the perfect wedding.

TOP, Trevor and Laura Arnett groove to Party Pleasers’ tunes (Forget Me Knot Photography); BOTTOM, D&M DJ Entertainment provided the music for Sheela and Ryan Jorgenson’s reception (Christopher Keels Photographer).

ARTS GROUP

HIRE A BAND J A Z Z A R T S G R O U P. O R G Contact: Louis Tsamous ltsamous@jazzartsgroup.org

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and keep them engaged. We’re there to make sure people have a good time.”

Experience has taught Pollock and his band how to control volume so guests can socialize without leaving the room, as well as how to vary the musical selections to keep people dancing.

“We play everything from Duke Ellington and Frank Sinatra to the Beach Boys, Bruno Mars and Maroon 5,” he says. “As we work through the evening, we don’t do it chronologically, but we do play a greater percentage of big band songs earlier in the evening because older guests tend to leave earlier. We also don’t do any original music anymore. We used to, but [we found that] if people don’t recognize it, they don’t dance.”

Trevor and Laura Arnett selected a DJ for their May 2018 reception because they wanted to hand-select the majority of their music.

“We liked the diversity that a DJ brings to the table,” says Trevor. “We wanted a wide variety of different musical genres at our wedding and reception.” They went with Party Pleasers, which operates out of Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati.

While DJs can play virtually any song available, bands do have some limitations.

“I’ve seen some very good bands, but they can only play what they know,” Jones says.

The Street Players’ repertoire includes between 120 and 150 songs—well beyond the 50 or 60 selections that can be played in a typical three-hour wedding reception— and the band still practices and learns new material all the time, Pollock says.

“We’re always open to requests,” he adds.

“But if we can’t make it sound like the original artist, we won’t play it. Instead, we will burn the song onto a CD and play it at the

break. We want to keep people dancing and keep the energy going.”

Interaction with guests is also something couples should consider when choosing their reception entertainment.

“We will go out and sing, ‘My Girl,’ to a grandmother or an aunt or someone,” Pollock says. “It breaks up the monotony of just playing. We had a bride, years ago, who was a trombone player, and she came up and played, ‘In the Mood’ in her bridal gown with the band. Things like that create such great memories. We need to keep people engaged and keep them entertained.”

It’s that sort of live improvisation that prompted Sarah and Andrew Schreiber to hire The Floorwalkers, a band Andrew saw regularly during college, to play at their June 2018 reception.

“Andrew and I love going to concerts and how genuine music is live versus prerecorded,” Sarah says. “There’s an element of spontaneity, and we felt a band could excite our guests to dance and enjoy the evening. We couldn’t have been happier with the outcome.”

Trevor says the DJ at his and Laura’s reception also interacted with guests.

“He was super personable and was totally cool with changing things on the fly,” he says. “He really orchestrated the reception and kept everything moving smoothly.”

Keeping the party going is always front-of-mind for both DJs and bands, but doing so during a quick musician break can be especially tricky for bands if they aren’t experienced.

“Whatever music is played while we are on break should keep the energy going,” Pollock says. “It’s like a plate you have to keep spinning. You don’t want to walk away from it for 15 minutes or it will fall. We have to maintain that energy so we can fold right back in where we were.”

Adding a line dance or other group dance during the break is always a good way to keep people on their feet, he says.

“As much as everybody’s heard them … there’s still an energy there, and people are still having fun,” Pollock says.

And if guests are entertained, they will stay longer.

“At the end of the night, we’ve had people come up to us and say, ‘We aren’t dancers, but we enjoyed the experience of watching the band and the interaction. If it had been a DJ, we would’ve left hours ago,’ ” Pollock says. “People [may not] remember what they had to eat or what the flowers looked like, but they will remember if they had fun.”

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planning music Lindsay Casher and her father, just before the DJ switched to a surprise father/daughter dance song.

(Brett Loves Elle Photography)

Surprising with Song Making the most of your music selections

BY ABERNATHY MILLER-RINEHART A spot-on music selection is essential to get your guests moving and set the mood at any wedding celebration, but some take wedding tunes to another level. Columbus brides Lindsey Casher and Christine Palmiero set a new bar for their reception soundtrack.

From serenading the groom with a heartfelt ballad to breaking out the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air dance moves during the father/ daughter dance, surprising with song is another way to add some special sauce to your special day.

BRIDE: Lindsey Casher SONG: “Apache (Jump On It)” by Sugar Hill Gang APPROACH: Busting out the “Jump On It” dance from Fresh Prince of Bel Air with her dad SURPRISED: Her father and wedding guests HOW IT HAPPENED: Growing up, Lindsey (a self-proclaimed daddy’s girl) loved danc166

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ing and watching The Fresh Prince of BelAir with her dad. Somewhere along the way, it became the duo’s inside joke. To pay homage to her dad and her love of the show, Lindsey secretly arranged for the DJ to switch from Tom Petty’s “Wild Flowers”—their official father/daughter dance song— to the Sugar Hill Gang’s “Apache (Jump On It)” during the dance.

“While we were dancing [to Tom Petty] my dad actually said, ‘I’m surprised you didn’t pick our ‘Apache’ song for our first dance,’ ” Casher says. “I kind of chuckled and played it off like, ‘No, not for our wedding, Dad!’ ” Less than three minutes later, the DJ dropped the Tom Petty song and jumped straight into “Apache.”

“He was super surprised but didn’t miss a beat,” Lindsey says of her dad. “He jumped right in … or should I say jumped right on it?”

BRIDE: Christine Palmiero SONG: “Feel My Love” by Adele APPROACH: Vocal performance SURPRISED: Her husband and wedding guests HOW IT HAPPENED: Music always played a major role in Christine’s romance with now-husband Brian Palmiero. Christine, a gifted vocalist, karaoke host, DJ and former frontwoman of metal band Ardor, and Brian, a classically trained pianist and drummer, originally met through mutual friends in the Columbus music scene.

Though her head-banging days are behind her, she wanted to incorporate a vocal performance into her reception.

“It’s a little cheesy, but I’d always sing that Adele song to him when he’d come visit me while I was hosting a karaoke night,” she explains. “The lyrics are so raw and real.”

Though great music was a given at the couple’s nuptials, Christine wasn’t sure singing to Brian was the right move for the wedding. In fact, she was on the fence about her idea until his mother convinced her to do it.

“It wasn’t something I was set on,” Christine says. “But when I went to my mother-inlaw with the idea, she really encouraged me to do it. It was amazing to have her support.”

Even as a skilled vocalist who had serenaded her groom with the Adele ballad

PULL IT OFF YOURSELF:

Want to try a surprise song? Check out these tips from David Luke Kurtz of D&M DJ Entertainment: Make sure you provide the correct version of the song. “Nobody wants to ruin a big moment, but there are tons of versions of popular songs; make sure if you’re singing that you have the exact version you’ve been practicing with.”

Know your audience. “Unless you pick something blatantly offensive, it’s going to go over well, because everybody at your wedding is cheering you on. That being said … keep it relatively safe.”

Solidify your plans and stick with them. “Lastminute changes are a surefire way to jeopardize the surprise. Make sure you have your plans set in stone about two weeks out, then let it be.”

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Christine Palmiero serenaded her new husband, Brian Palmiero, during their reception. (Lambert Photographs)

many times, Christine wasn’t immune to the nerves on the big day.

“I couldn’t look directly at him because I knew if I did, I’d ugly-cry off all my makeup,” she says. “The emotions were high, but it was really personal and special for us.”

Even after a slightly shaky start, she wowed the crowd with her singing skills. The serenade ended up being one of the most memorable moments for the groom and their guests.

“Having a little concert in the middle of the wedding added another level of entertainment. It was fun and specific to us,” she says. “It took the experience to another level of connection. It was our special day and our special moment.”

e-newsletter e pass to the A backstag rch C r u o Y it y Visit ColumbusMonthly.com and sign up for our weekly newsletter that includes special events, important conversations, exclusive giveaways and more.

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planning invitations

Jacqueline and Corbin Ricker’s invitations from Avant-Garde Impressions (Derk’s Works Photography)

Word to the Wise What you need to know about invitations’ hidden costs, splurges, postage and more

BY CHELSEA CASTLE For some, the wedding invitation can be the most daunting of wedding collateral—for others, it might be the most fun and exciting.

No matter your outlook, budget or type of wedding, an invitation is essential and can be as simple or complex as you make it.

From DIY opportunities to splurges, Jason Fletcher, owner of Avant-Garde Impressions, breaks down the process so you’re prepared and don’t break the bank.

First things first, come to your stationer with ideas and research. Spend time browsing online to find what you like and dislike, Fletcher says. And be aware of how online sources present information and pricing, as well as how many pieces you may need in your suite based on your type of wedding.

“A lot of times when you go online, they’re just going to price you out for an 168

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invitation—and some people forget there is an RSVP card. And if there is a reception at a different place, you want that on a different card also,” Fletcher recommends.

To avoid sticker shock when you’re exploring your options, consider what items might be labor-intensive and which might be easier to reproduce.

For example, belly bands—the bits of ribbon or paper that go around the entire suite to hold it together—can be inexpensive, while letterpress or foil details often carry a higher price tag, Fletcher says. “Sometimes [envelope] liners can be a little pricey, too, if they are custom,” he adds.

The most common mistakes that people make are easily avoided, according to Fletcher.

“The biggest thing is knowing how many [invitations] they need,” Fletcher says. “And getting addresses! They wait

until the last minute to collect those. That’s a big project, so start early.” Remember that you only need one invitation suite per household, not per guest—so that 120-person guest list might only require 50 to 75 full suites.

“A lot of people wait until the last minute when they needed them three weeks ago,” Fletcher says. “Just come in early.

Even if it seems too early—it’s never too early to look and get an idea of what you like, and you don’t have to order the first time you come in.”

The next most important thing you can do is plan a realistic budget. “People underestimate how much paper costs, and the process and postage,” Fletcher says.

He estimates the average budget is about $3 per set of invitations. Sets with more cards and embellishments—a map of

the area or a card with accommodations details, for example—might put you closer to $5.50 or $6.

When it comes to postage, things get a little hairier.

“About 75 percent [of invitations] are just over an ounce per set, and then that stamp is 71 cents,” Fletcher notes. “Some are just under two ounces, and for those with suites or pockets, you might need a three-ounce stamp.” Shapes can have an effect, too— oversize or nontraditional envelope shapes can have a higher fee.

Also, don’t forget an appropriately priced stamp on the RSVP card. A postcard stamp, if you go that route, is only 35 cents, while standard RSVP cards in an envelope will be the regular 50-cent, first-class rate. And if your stamps aren’t self-sticking, avoid having to lick them all by taking a page from the pros’ books and using a glue stick.

When in doubt, assemble a full suite and take it to the post office for an official weighin and advice on required postage. “Go to a second post office for a different opinion if you need, because they actually might have different opinions,” Fletcher suggests.

Between style upgrades and postage fees, stress about invitation costs is normal. Fortunately, there are many ways to save on your invites. Consider DIY options like hand calligraphy (if you or someone you know is creatively inclined) or assembling your suites yourself. Raised-ink invitations are also a budget-friendly choice that tends to be less expensive than people think, Fletcher says.

“We do sell kits,” Fletcher says, adding a caveat that they’re typically not as fancy as what he is able to provide. “You can print it yourself, but most people have traditional ink jet printers and those aren’t always the best … [with] card stock.”

Fletcher cautions budget-minded couples to price out options before going with a kit; depending on your wants and needs, it may not always be the cheaper alternative.

For those looking to splurge on their invitations, consider custom liners that match a photo or a pattern incorporated in your wedding. Foil and florals are also huge right now, Fletcher says, which can be pricey but can add a beautiful and special touch.

Whichever route you go, it should all come down to one simple goal: making them personal. “[The invitation] is something you want to look back on in 10 years and say, ‘I really loved what we did,’ ” Fletcher says. “And if you’re not sure what to do, go with timeless and elegant.”

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planning hotels

It’s in the Bag Columbus is a treasure trove of local goodies to delight your out-of-town guests. Stuff a hotel bag with items such as these to make their stay extra-special.

PHOTO BY TIM JOHNSON Cheryl’s Cookies in wedding cake and chocolate with vanilla frosting, $29.99 to $129.99 for box of 12 to 100; AnthonyThomas buckeye candies, $29.95 for box of 60 individually wrapped pieces; Al’s Delicious Popcorn in “Columbus” mix (white cheddar and vanilla butternut flavors), $3.25 per 2.5-oz bag, custom order pricing available; Ohio LOVE sticker, $4.50 from Celebrate Local; local craft beer soaps in Seventh Son’s Scientist IPA and Actual Brewing’s Electron Brown Ale, $6.99 each from Glenn Avenue Soap Co.; thank-you bag, $9.99 for 10 from Party City.

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honeymoons planning

Honeymoon

Ibiza, Spain

HERE COMES THE

Tips for choosing a destination

PHOTO: © 2018 THINKSTOCK

BY JESSICA SALERNO

After an emotional and memorable day with family and friends, the newly married couple’s honeymoon is the ideal way to relax and celebrate a new life together. But sometimes narrowing down a honeymoon location can be overwhelming—do you want to go somewhere new or tried-and-true? To relax or get your adrenaline racing? To ski or surf? Save the eenie, meenie, miney, moe for another time; these newlyweds and local experts have tips to help you make your decision.

First Things First Caryn Coomer of Calyco Travel says she tells couples to first consider the time of year for the trip, how long they’ll be gone and how much they can spend.

“If you have a higher-end budget and two weeks’ time, then Tahiti could be included in that, but if you have a lower budget and only want to be gone for a long weekend, then obviously Tahiti can’t be included,” she says.

Jennifer Kon of Compass Travel recommends homing in on the things you know you want and the things that are deal-breakers.

She also encourages couples to consider honeymoon locations earlier in the wedding planning process, rather than waiting until the last minute, to snag the best-possible deal.

Alexandria Theodosopoulos-Plaster and Jesse Plaster booked a honeymoon in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, after a friend recommended the location. Neither of them

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Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

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had been there before, and they liked the idea of experiencing a new place together.

“We both really liked that everything was there for us,” Theodosopoulos-Plaster says of the all-inclusive resort they stayed in.

“You didn’t have to carry stuff around [or] worry about money. You could relax, and there was lots of entertainment.”

For other couples considering destinations, she recommends looking at reviews and relying on friends’ recommendations—as she and Plaster did—to figure out what will work best.

A resort or a hotel might have a great website with beautiful photos, but hearing about the experience from other travelers can give you a better feel for how your visit will go.

Research the Best Times Theodosopoulos-Plaster and Plaster traveled just after their February 2018 wedding, successfully avoiding hurricane season, but other couples aren’t always so lucky.

Kon says many people aren’t aware hurricane season—June through November— also happens in the Pacific, affecting those in Hawaii. Traveling to tropical climes in hurricane season can be a risk, of course, which is often reflected in better prices on airfare and hotel rooms.

“That’s something to think about,” Kon says. “I don’t say rule that out entirely—there are a lot of great deals in the fall because of hurricane season, and families aren’t traveling as much with kids back in school—but that’s just something to keep in mind.”

Europe is another location to research in terms of travel dates. Kon says although it’s an excellent destination for history, certain sites and hotels will be closed in the colder months. August, when much of the European Union goes on holiday, may be another time to avoid.

For couples on a budget, Kon suggests Cancun’s all-inclusive resorts that take the 172

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guesswork out of ancillary expenses. And because there are so many flights in and out of the region, prices stay competitive. For mid-range travel, she suggests Jamaica or Aruba, recommending Europe or Bora Bora for those looking to spare no expense.

Be mindful of whether your destination requires a visa, Kon says, which should be applied for at least a few months in advance.

You can search your destination on the U.S. Department of State’s website, travel.state. gov, to determine whether you’ll need one.

Consider Less Common Options Kon says Iceland has become popular for its dramatic scenery—and extra-long daylight hours—in the spring and summer. She also suggests Croatia for travelers who have visited many of the more popular destinations and are looking for something different.

Couples who have been to the Caribbean before should consider Ireland, Italy and Greece as alternatives, Coomer says.

Another lesser-known destination is Isla Holbox, a Mexican island near Cancun.

“There are no all-inclusive properties there, but a lot of boutique options, so [for] people who would want a little bit more of an untouched private island, that’s a great choice,” Coomer says. “That’s nice too because Cancun is so easy to get in and out of, especially for people in Columbus.”

She also recommends the Azores, an autonomous collection of Portuguese islands, in the Atlantic Ocean.

“There are lots of active things to do; it’s very lush and tropical,” Coomer says.

Give and Take If your new spouse is an adrenaline junkie and you’re more of a drinks-by-the-pool type, all hope is not lost.

“I try to meet in the middle with couples,” Coomer says. “I have even talked with hon-

PHOTOS: © 2018 THINKSTOCK

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elf urs

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res -st

eymoon couples about putting together a fiveyear plan and saying, ‘We’ll do this place this year and do this place in a couple years.’”

And if the trip is a longer one, Kon suggests going to two locations, which is what Jaime and David Scott did. They opted for a honeymoon in Spain and Ireland after their July, 1, 2017, wedding.

“I’m a Spanish teacher; I lived in Spain for a little bit in 2012, and I wanted to go back,” Jaime says. “My husband had never been to Europe, and we both wanted to go to Ireland and visit Dublin to see what it’s like.”

They planned the nine-day trip themselves, but one thing they hadn’t accounted for was jetlag, Jaime says.

“We had just come off the wedding high; as soon as everything was settled, we were exhausted. And there was six-hour time difference in Spain and five in Ireland,” compared to Eastern Standard Time, she says.

“We were completely dead the first couple days we got there.”

Jaime suggests couples make a plan for what they will do each day, especially if they’re going to an unknown city and want to explore. Consider which sites you’d like to visit, what restaurants are nearby and the transportation arrangements you’ll need to make.

“There are so many destinations people can meet in the middle on,” Coomer says.

“It’s possible for one person that wants to be in a city and experience the food and culture to compromise with someone who just wants to sit on the beach and be catered to. If you plan it out ahead of time, you can meet in the middle more than you might think.”

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Caryn@ Caryn @CalycoTravel.com 614.

614.266.0917

A Grand Venue for Your Big Day Celebrate your big day in unique style at The Westin Great Southern Columbus. Built in 1897, our Grand Ballroom features high ceilings, historic touches and original marble flooring. Our professional event and catering staff are available to help you plan your special event.

Call 614.228.3800 and ask about our exclusive rates for Friday and Sunday bookings.

©2018 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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planning in your words

Advertiser Directory HONEYMOONS

T.E.A.M. DJ

activetraveldeals.com 614-771-6200 5064 Cemetery Rd., Hilliard

teamdj.com 614-798-8794 4037 Blendon Point Dr., Gahanna

Calyco Travel

RENTALS/DÉCOR

Active Travel

calycotravel.com 614-266-0917

Compass Travel compasstravel agency.com 614-454-1442

Wanderlust Travel and Tours facebook.com/ wanderlusttoursco 614-595-6532 90 E. Wilson Bridge Rd., Worthington Lauren and Brett McPherson attempt to open Lauren’s horse’s trailer. (Brett Loves Elle Photography) INVITATIONS

A Stitch in Time

BY LAUREN MCPHERSON

as told to Melissa Kossler Dutton When I began planning my wedding, one of my bridesmaids gave me some really good advice. She said something inevitably would go wrong, and that I should focus on one or two details. The first thing that meant the most to me was my dress. The second thing was bringing my horse up to the venue so we could get pictures. I figured those would be the two highlights for me. It’s ironic that the two things that were the most meaningful to me were the things that went wrong.

The dress fit really, really well at the final fitting a couple of weeks before the wedding. The week before the wedding, I got sick with food poisoning and didn’t eat for four days. When we went to put the dress on the day of—it’s a strapless dress—it was too big.

We started panicking. My matron of honor rummaged through her bridal emergency kit, looking for anything that could help. We were all standing there going, “What do we do?”

Thankfully, my mom thought to reach out to our wedding coordinator.

She came running in and said, “No worries. I got this. I used to own a bridal boutique.” She literally altered the dress. She sewed me into it 30 minutes prior to the ceremony.

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We had gotten permission to bring my horse, Honor, to the venue for photos after the ceremony. My friend agreed to bring him in his trailer. In her haste to get there, she left the key to the padlock that secures the rear door at the barn. There was a group of people trying to figure out how to get him off the trailer. They tried using two different bolt cutters to cut off the padlock.

They tried for about an hour to get him off the trailer. It was becoming very apparent that these pictures were probably not going to happen. That was devastating.

Brett and I went into the reception.

When we walked back outside to do our sunset photos, my Aunt Janette stopped me and said, “I can get your horse off the trailer, but I have to open your wedding present.” The Dremel tool kit she had gotten us cut the padlock off in like two seconds, and I finally got my pictures.

Little did we know a wedding gift would save us.

Lauren and Brett McPherson married on July 15, 2017, at Irongate Equestrian Center.

COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

Avant-Garde Impressions

Main Events Party & Event Rental maineventsparty rental.com 740-322-6355 1015 Brice St., Newark

Rock On Ice rockonice.com 614-449-8770 4910 Carters Corner Rd., Sunbury TRANSPORTATION

Classic Limousines of Columbus classiclimos.net 614-949-9222 790 Science Blvd., Gahanna

agimpressions.com 614-259-7082 34 Dillmont Dr., Columbus

MISC.

Ivory House Creative ivoryhousecreative.com 937-671-7255

americanplasticusa.com 614-294-5100 1349 Delashmut Ave., Columbus

MUSIC

Buckeye Raceway

D&M DJ Entertainment dandmdjentertain ment.com 614-604-9400

Jazz Arts Group

American Plastic

buckeyeraceway.com 614-272-7888 4050 W. Broad St., Columbus

Columbus Bride & Groom

jazzartsgroup.org 614-294-5200 400 S. Fifth St., Ste. 103, Columbus

columbusbrideand groom.com 614-787-1840 5251 Norwich St., Hilliard

Lo-Key Entertainment

Destination Grandview

lowkeyent.com 888-407-8685 5425 Warner Rd., Ste. 5, Valley View

Master Mix mastermixdj.net 614-537-2762

Party Pleasers partypleasersservices.com 614-396-7017 792 Busch Ct., Columbus

Reflections Event Group reflectionseventgroup.com 614-394-8800

Street Players streetplayers.net 614-818-1718

destinationgrandview.org/ weddings 614-453-4295 820 Goodale Blvd., Columbus

Dueling Axes theduelingaxes.com 614-221-1600 309 S. Fourth St., Columbus

Fred Astaire Dance Studio fredastaire.com/delaware 740-368-9040 1157 Columbus Pike, Delaware

Advertiser Index Find more information on these vendors at cbuswedmag.com/Marketplace A

E

N

Active Travel.......................................................172

Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus-Dublin.........91

Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center.............95

AddVision...........................................................136

The Estate at New Albany/ Brookshire/WatersEdge....................................2, 3

Nicole Dixon Photographic.................................133

Aimee Thomas Photography...............................135 Alexanders Jewelers..............................................47 American Commodore..........................................54 American Plastic....................................................39 The Athletic Club of Columbus.............................77 Avant-Garde Impressions....................................169

B Barn at Rush Creek...............................................69

New Era Weddings.........................Inside back cover NorthStar Golf Club.............................................97

F Forget Me Knot Photography..............................143

O

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.......................................76

Ohio Statehouse....................................................70

Fred Astaire Dance Studio.....................................99

Orchard Lane Flowers...........................................65

G

Our Dream Photos

by James DeCamp Photography.......................144

The Old Blue Rooster Event Center......................92 Our CupCakery..................................................128

The Golf Club at Little Turtle...............................78

The Barn at Stratford..........................................103

The Grand Barn at The Mohicans.......................102

The Blackwell Inn...............................................102

Granville Inn.........................................................84

Bloomfield Meadows Barn..................................106

P The Paper Daisy Flower Boutique.........................64 Party Pleasers......................................................165

Blue Skies HD Video...........................................144

H

Bosc + Brie..........................................................119

Heather Blackston Photography............................58

Bridgewater Banquet & Conference Center.........109

Henri’s Bridal................................ Inside front cover

Brio/Bravo Restaurant Group..............................100

Heritage Golf Club..............................................100

R

Bryn Du Mansion..................................................84

Hillary Ferguson Photography............................134

Buckeye Raceway..................................................11

Hocking Hills Wedding Chapel.............................70

The Reception House at Raymond Memorial.......................................94

Hofbräuhaus Columbus......................................107

C

I

Cameron Mitchell Premier Events.......................117

Irongate Equestrian Center....................................87

Capital City Cakes..............................................129

Ivory House Creative..........................................169

Catering by Scott.................................................120

J

Christopher Keels Photographer..........................137

J Bentley Hair Studio & Day Spa..........................57

City Barbeque.....................................................119 Classic Limousines of Columbus...........................43 The Club at Tartan Fields......................................96 The Columbus Athenaeum..................................105 Columbus Bride & Groom....................................11 Columbus Marriott Northwest.............................95 Columbus Museum of Art.....................................96 The Columbus Photobooth Co............................133 Comfort Photography.........................................136 Compass Travel...................................................172 Connell’s Maple Lee Flowers & Gifts....................65 COSI.....................................................................79 Creekside Conference & Event Center..................91

Provence Boudoir/Lambert Photographs.............143

Red Brick Occasions Event Center......................115 Reflections Event Group........................................79

Calyco Travel......................................................173

Carfagna’s Catering.............................................113

PENZONE Salons + Spas......................................59

J. Liu Restaurant & Bar......................................105

Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel......................................7 Rock On Ice........................................................106

S Sadie Baby Sweets...............................................128 Sanchez Studio....................................................135 Schmidt’s Restaurant Banquets and Catering......101

Jan Kish-La Petite Fleur.......................................129

Scioto Reserve Country Club................................93

Jazz Arts Group..................................................164

Square One Salon and Day Spa.............................57

Jefferson Country Club.......................................109

Stone Creek Dental Care.......................................58

Jorgensen Farms Historic Barn..............................90

Street Players.......................................................167

Jorgensen Farms Oak Grove.................................99

Stuart’s Opera House..........................................109 Style & Story.......................................................137

K Kelton House........................................................77 Kodjoarts Videography.......................................144

The Suisse Shop Bakery.......................................128

T T.E.A.M. DJ........................................................165

L Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph....................111 Lindey’s Restaurant.............................................122

Twirl.....................................................................41

V

Lo-Key Entertainment.........................................167

Valley Dale Ballroom/ Made from Scratch Catering..............................89

D&M DJ Entertainment.....................................165

M

Derk’s Works Photography.................................134

Magnolia Hill Farm..............................................69

W

Destination Grandview.........................................89

Main Events Party & Event Rental.....................107

The Westin Great Southern Columbus................173

Diamond Cellar.......................................................1

Makoy Center.......................................................92

White of Dublin....................................................39

Dublin Cleaners/New Albany Cleaners.................43

Master Mix.........................................................167

Worthington Hills Country Club...........................78

Dueling Axes.......................................................103

The Mill Event Center...........................................85

Worthington Jewelers...............................Back cover

D

Wanderlust Travel and Tours................................43

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happily ever after

Wedded Bliss Those first few moments as newlyweds are unique.

There’s a euphoria unlike any other that comes with the knowledge that after months of planning, you both have made it. Here, Katie and Travis Simmons enjoy that feeling after their June 10, 2017, ceremony at Worthington Hills Country Club. (Hillary Ferguson Photography)

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COLUMBUS WEDDINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

NEW ERA

WEDDINGS NEW ALBANY LINKS

- Beautiful indoor venue seating up to 120 - Stunning ceremony patio, complete with trellis - Gorgeous mahogany bar and majestic skylight

GLENROSS GOLF CLUB

- Ornate ballroom seating up to 175 - Exposed brick & detailed woodwork - Outdoor ceremony area with charming gazebo

ROYAL AMERICAN LINKS

- Charming indoor venue seating up to 250 - Wood beam accented cathedral ceilings and fireplace - Picturesque balcony with French doors and garden views

GOLF CLUB OF DUBLIN

- Elegant indoor venue seating up to 250 - Chandelier accented vaulted ceiling and hardwood floors - Exquisite bridal suite complete with vanity & dressing room

BENT TREE GOLF CLUB

- Intimate indoor venue seating up to 150 - Outdoor ceremony area and patio overlooking perfectly-groomed fairway - All-inclusive packages available for your convenience

CLOVER VALLEY GOLF CLUB

- Banquet room capable of accommodating up to 175 guests - Beautiful setting overlooking the golf course

- VISIT: NEWERAGOLF.COM -