The Fayette County Record Wedding Guide

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F A Y E T T E

C O U N T Y

W E D D I N G

G U I D E

FIND YOUR DREAM DRESS AT THE BRIDAL RAIL Gown pictured from The Bridal Rail, see story page 8

4 TIPS

TO IMPRESS YOUR GUESTS

local weddings

COORDINATORS, PHOTOGRAPHERS, FLORISTS, VENUES, & MUCH MORE

Wedding Planning?

We make it easy!

Come by and talk to one of our bridal consultants.

Our bridal registries are available online for easy shopping!

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Bride and Groom receive FREE gift when registering

•Gift Registry for Bridal Showers, Weddings, Anniversaries, Birthdays

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•Quality Cookware Bakeware & Cutlery •Teas & Coffees •Kitchen Gadgets

226 W. Colorado La Grange, TX 78945 lepetite@cvctx.com

www.lepetitegourmetshoppe.com

Haw Creek Church

H

Artistically created for your memorable wedding experience, Henkel Hall Event and Wedding Center is an 8,000 sq. ft. climatecontrolled venue located beside Haw Creek Church and The Grove.

Haw Creek Church, built in 1872, is a spectacular wedding destination surrounded by beautiful centuries-old live oak trees. The renovated church is ready for the bride and groom. The hand-painted, stenciled ceiling and walls define the architecture and fine craftsmanship.

The Grove, a cluster of centuries-old live oak trees, is the perfect setting for the outdoor wedding you have always dreamed of. Your guests will be seated under a natural canopy of trees, with a cool soft breeze quietly blowing in from the rolling countryside. After the ceremony, your guests can stroll directly into Henkel Hall, conveniently located adjacent to The Grove.

The Grove

Henkel Hall includes the following Amenities • Solid Oak Wooden Floor • Dynamic Sound System • 22 ft. Walnut Serving Buffet • Catering Kitchen • State of the Art Projector • Band Accommodations • Bridal & Groom Suites

• Maximum 300 Guests • Tables & Chairs up to 200 Guests • On-site Manager • Outdoor Ceremony Locations • Handicap Accessible • Preferred Vendor List • Event Parking & More

Grace Photography

Taylor Lord Photography

For information regarding your event plans, contact Gerald or Debbie Tobola at 979.249.5840 or email Events@HenkelSquareRoundTop.com.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 2019 FAYETTE COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE

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T T E F A Y E

T Y C O U N

D I N G W E D

E G U I D

UR FIND YOD ESS M RAR DREA IL E BRIDAL AT TH

Bridal red from The Gown pictu 8 see story page

Rail,

4 TIPS

S TO IMPRESTS YOUR GUES

local weddings

S, OGRAPHER ORS, PHOT RE COORDINAT NUES, & MUCH MO VE FLORISTS,

On the Cover Courtney Muske is pictured here wearing a Casablanca Bridal gown purchased at The Bridal Rail in Moulton.

She married Jed Muske on November 10, 2018.

Photo by Kathlyn Dragna Photography of Brenham.

Local Brides and Grooms...................................6 & 26 The Bridal Rail.................................................................8 Henkel Hall Wedding & Event Center......................10 Maria and Brent Stewart’s Wedding........................12 Columbus Chamber of Commerce..........................14 National Bank & Trust...................................................18 LG Spirits Beer & Wine...............................................20 Donna and Anthony Wessels’ Wedding................22 Keeping within your Budget......................................24 Kortney and Trent Schielack’s Wedding................28 Advertiser Index............................................................30

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p.

The Bridal Rail

14

p.

10

p.

Henkel Hall Wedding & Event Center

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p.

Columbus Chamber of Commerce

LG Spirits Beer & Wine

thebestlittlecakeshopintexas.com thebestlittlecakeshopintexas.com bestlittlecakeshopintexas@gmail.com bestlittlecakeshopintexas@gmail.com

SPECIALIZINGIN INWEDDING WEDDING SPECIALIZING AND LARGE LARGEEVENT EVENTCAKES CAKES AND

12

Call Call for for aa complimentary complimentarywedding weddingconsultation consultation

Melissa Melissa Harris Harris -- designer/owner designer/owner •• 979.702.9126 979.702.9126

Kalli and Blake Schulte

Catherine Meinke

Photo by Candace Rhea Photography

Aa Pe at Ch

Ph

Jon St.

Photo by Stephanie Steinhauser

LOCAL WEDDINGS BRIDES AND GROOMS ENJOYING THEIR SPECIAL DAY

Elizabeth Zatopek and Ryan Lester

Photo by Brittany Dawson Photography

Peyton and Logan Hatfield

Photo by Candace Rhea Photography

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Aaron and Madison Perez were married at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fayetteville

Stephanie Gerecke and Holden Hays

Photo by Leanne Faldyn

Jonathan & Hollie Locke were married at St. John Lutheran in Warrenton

Photo by Brittany Dawson Photography

Courtney Reynolds and Tyler Dawson

Photo by Brittany Dawson Photography

Bryn and Courtney Janca were married at The Vine in New Ulm

Photo by Kelly Costello Photography

THE BRIDAL RAIL A BRIDAL SHOP WITH A HEART AS BIG AS TEXAS In 1994, K&K Bridal Rail was featured in the fashion section of the Houston Chronicle with the quote, “Bridal shop thrives on hospitality and personal attention”–two things that co-owners, best friends, and sisters, Rebecca Wilke and Mary Alice Lewkoski, have maintained since purchasing the store on July 3, 2011. The name was changed to The Bridal Rail after Rebecca and Mary Alice bought the bridal store from Melissa Helweg, the daughter of Margaret Kolar, who originally opened the store with Mary Kosub in 1981. Ever since then, it has been housed in a charming, renovated rail depot (hence the name) at 100 West Moore Street in the quaint, small town of Moulton, Texas–and, yes, the train goes by several times a day.

Photo by Candace Rhea Photography

The sisters admit that working together at The Bridal Rail feels like their perfect place in the world. “We love fashion, we love people, and we love serving others, so it felt like the perfect opportunity,” Rebecca said. Over the years, the loyal customers have made the team’s work into play and have allowed them to be a part of one of the biggest moments in their lives.

Currently, the team at The Bridal Rail is made up of several key members who all contribute to the lovely and nostalgic atmosphere that makes up the store. Clarissa Rother is the store manager, Janine Smajstrla is the social media representative, and Carmen Wiedemann has been the store’s seamstress for over 25 years. These three ladies all work as bridal consultants and work hard to make the experience of dress shopping as easy as possible for each bride who receives their attention. “These young ladies enjoy it and love helping people,” Rebecca said.

“In a nutshell, we’ve found such a special way for us to be able to serve. These brides can buy dresses anywhere today, and we’re kind of a hidden gem where these girls can come in and it’s like you’re coming into our home and we’re going to take care of you,” said Mary Alice. “It’s not about selling a dress, it’s about an opportunity for Rebecca and me and our staff to build a rapport with that young lady and gain her trust. It’s her wedding day, the most important day of her life, and it’s so important for her to know that she’s working with people who really care and want her day to be special.

We’re there to hold her hand until she gives it to her groom.”

Mary Alice and Rebecca give such personalized attention and care to each of their brides, that they often receive wedding invitations

8 | FEBRUARY 2019 wedding guide

Wedding Dress Tip. .

Rip pages out of magazines, click through bridal boutiques online, explore on Pinterest, and check out what celebrity brides are wearing to compile a visual file of your favorite dresses. Then look for a connecting theme — are they all very embellished? Lacy? Voluminous? Have open backs? Find a couple commonalities of styles you like and bring your ideas to your first appointment.

and have made lifelong friends with their clients. In fact, there are designated places in the store where personal, handwritten thank-you cards, wedding invitations, and photos of their brides are displayed.

They say “you reap what you sow,” and after being in business for over 38 years, The Bridal Rail has been fortunate enough to dress secondand third-generation brides. Shopping at The Bridal Rail has become a family tradition for many families. Customers come in and say, “My mom bought her dress here. It’s a tradition that I want to pass on to my daughter someday!” In a time when fads come and go, and so much has been lost, it’s nice to know that The Bridal Rail holds tight to what is true and good in order for the tradition to continue. To have brides bring their daughters 25 to 30 years later to experience the same love and care that they received is truly the greatest compliment that a bridal shop can receive.

Being a part of the process of finding a bride’s wedding dress, arguably one of the most important parts of a wedding, is incredibly rewarding for the team at The Bridal Rail. One of Rebecca and Mary Alice’s most memorable moments was helping a young bride whose father was wheelchair bound find her dress. They helped him into the store and accomodated each and every need and wish that the family requested. The bride found her dress, but unfortunately her father passed away before he was able to witness her special day. However, thanks to Carmen’s dedication to making the bride’s day as special as possible, she was able to have a heart cut from one of her father’s shirts sewn into the inside of her dress near her heart so that he could still be with her on her wedding day. While this story may sound unique or like a story from a bridal store from “days gone by,” it’s only one of many “bride-to-be stories” that Rebecca and Mary Alice have from their experience at The Bridal Rail. It is small touches like these that reflect the heart of The Bridal Rail and their willingness to truly make their customers feel so special.

But don’t let the team’s small town, friendly atmosphere and individualized service fool you–The Bridal Rail has not only been a leader in bridal fashion for 38 years, but Rebecca and Mary Alice also serve on the Dallas Market’s Bridal Retail Advisory Board. This is no small achievement, as the board consists of only 12 hand-selected members chosen throughout the United States. While The Bridal Rail is honored to be in such high esteem in the bridal and prom fashion industry, what these sisters truly treasure are the relationships that are built and the friendships that are formed when the perfect gown is discovered and tears of joy are shed.

“We’ll never be that ‘chandelier store,’” said Rebecca, “And we don’t want to be.” They’re perfectly happy with being the store that women go to in order to receive “hometown hospitality” and the expertise that can only come from being in business for over 38 years.

Photo by Kathlyn Dragna Photography

Photo by Candace Rhea Photography

To help cater to the “local” South Texas brides’ tastes, Mary Alice and Rebecca host an Annual Bridal Show each year during the first week of July. The Bridal Rail also offers an extended line of bridesmaids, flower girls, Quinceneras, debutantes, Mother of the Brides and other Special Occasion gowns. And since Prom is so important in South Texas, they also offer a large selection of prom dresses.

The company’s website, www.thebridalrail.com, and Facebook page are full of heartwarming testaments to the employees’ dedication to helping each individual bride find their dream wedding dress, and to making each experience as relaxed and pleasant as possible. Give them a call at (361) 596-7772 and book your appointment today to experience the hometown hospitality and personalized care that can only be found at The Bridal Rail, where forever begins.

FEBRUARY 2019 | 9

HENKEL HALL WEDDING & EVENT CENTER THE SMALL-TOWN VENUE WITH HISTORIC CHARM Henkel Hall, located in Round Top, is an 8,000 square foot building that was constructed in 2013 and can host up to 300 guests–which is pretty large when it comes to local weddings. While the whole county is rich with culture and history, this venue’s location itself at Henkel Square is very special, as it’s surrounded by buildings that date back to the 1800s. An original sign that reads, “Welcome, friends, to the party” in German hangs within the hall that also dates back to this time period. Even the carriage located in the foyer, which is now used as a gift table for weddings, once belonged to the doctor who owned the apothecary shop in Henkel Square.

Legend has it that the carriage is the one he used to make house calls.

Photo by Brittany Dawson Photography

The Hall itself contains a renovated storeroom which is now a spacious bride’s room, complete with sofas and vanities where the ladies can get their makeup done before the ceremony. There is also a groom’s room, which houses a poker table and foosball table where the groom and his groomsmen can relax, drink, and get ready for the big day.

When it comes to amenities, Henkel Hall certainly isn’t lacking.

There is a large bar that’s perfect for setting up a buffet, a separate “drinking” bar, space for the DJ or a live band, a projector and screen for slideshows, and a huge catering kitchen. The kitchen itself is a caterer’s dream come true, with a walk-in cooler, ice machine, and food warmer, all up to code.

And you can’t forget about Haw Creek Chapel, the picturesque little church located right beside the Hall. The chapel can accommodate up to 60 people, and is perfect for a small intimate ceremony with the couple’s immediate families. However, as most weddings held at Henkel Hall are outdoors, chairs are often set up in rows outside and the bride and groom typically exchange vows on the picturesque church steps. In case of inclement weather, the couple can bring their family into the church while the guests await their arrival in the Hall, or they can even have the ceremony in the Hall.

One trend that Gerald Tobola, manager of the Hall, has noticed is growing more popular, is to have a small ceremony for the families at the chapel in the afternoon and then a large reception at the Hall for all of the guests in the evening. No matter what the couple is planning for their special day, Henkel Hall offers many options to make their day as perfect as possible.

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VenueTip. .

The venue will play a huge role in shaping the ambience for your wedding, so it’s important to have a vision of what you want to portray for your big day.

Photo by Brittany Dawson Photography

There is also some landscaping planned for the area outside of the Hall. In addition to the beautiful live oaks that dot the property, they are aiming to build a standalone restroom near the grove for the guests. More roses will also be added, as well as other vegetation that matches the aesthetic of Henkel Square. The goal is to create an “invisible barrier” to provide more privacy for guests as well as help prevent tourists from accidentally wandering into the venue when there’s a wedding being held (although tourists are generally very respectful). One day, Gerald hopes to have a green wall of hedges that will block off the venue from the road, creating an even more intimate atmosphere.

There are about a dozen conveniently-located bed and breakfasts inside the Round Top city limits for out of town wedding guests, as well as hotels in neighboring La Grange. Additionally, the company based in Schulenburg called Schüber is available to help chauffeur guests from the Hall to their overnight lodgings or even from another location to the Hall if the couple decides to have their ceremony at a separate venue. Gerald also has a list of local vendors that he can recommend to couples, which helps keep guests within the county.

These vendors, which include coordinators, florists, caterers, bands, security detail, and more, have already worked together many times, and their history allows for more cohesion and a more smoothly-run wedding.

Gerald usually works with the couple anywhere from nine months to a full year before the ceremony. Upon signing the contract, he sends a floor plan of the building to help with the planning. While other venues of this caliber will only give couples one or two meetings before the wedding, Gerald is “rare” in that he is willing to go the extra mile to help each couple.

Whether they need some extra guidance or if they’re ready to take on the process on their own, Gerald offers personalized attention to each individual couple’s needs. He once even allowed one of the mothers to come and set up the entire hall herself three months before the wedding because she was so worried that she couldn’t sleep.

Photo by Grace Photography

Finally, about a month before the wedding, there’s a big meeting where everyone comes in to ensure that everything is covered and taken care of. After that, everyone is satisfied and knows that it is going to be a great wedding.

“That attention that we all put in, it pays off at the end of the day,” Gerald said. “It’s worth working a year ahead of time to get to that point.”

FEBRUARY 2019 | 11

Maria and Brent FEBRUARY 18, 2018 - HENKEL HALL - ROUND TOP, TEXAS - BRITTANY DAWSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Maria Minzenmeyer, daughter of Glen and Georgina Minzenmeyer, and Brent Stewart were married at Henkel Hall in Round Top on Sunday, February 18, 2018. Floral arrangements were provided by Melanie Tipton with Last Petal Floral Studio. The wedding coordinator was Jenn Schovajsa with Modern Farm Events. Makeup was done by Southern Tease Hair & Make Up. Hair was done by Donne Rhode at Salon Envy. The bride’s dress was from Mockingbird Bridal. Rentals were provided by Marquee Rentals. The photographer was Brittany Dawson Photography. The bride’s tan was done by Gypsy Sun & Boutique. Catering was provided by Celebrations Catering & Events. The DJ was Look No Further. The Wedding Party Bus was provided by Austin Limo. The videographer was James Pharaon Creative. Catering was provided by Bistro 108.

12 | FEBRUARY 2019 wedding guide

The Details

Wedding Venue: Henkel Hall Wedding Coordinator: Jenn Schovajsa - Modern Farm Events Rentals: Marquee Floral and Decor: Melanie Tipton with Last Petal Wedding Dress: Mockingbird Bridal Hair: Donna Rohde Wedding Party Bus: Austin Limo Caterer: Bistro 108 DJ: Look No Further Wedding Cake: Best Little Cake Shop Photographer: Brittany Dawson Photography Videographer: James Pharaon Creative

FEBRUARY 2019 | 13

COLUMBUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CHOICES ABOUND IN COLORADO COUNTY The Columbus Chamber of Commerce would like couples to know that an abundance of wedding venues are available just down the road in Colorado County in locations convenient to just about all of the major cities in Texas. There are a total of 11 venues, offering a wide variety of styles and atmospheres for couples to choose from, whether they’re seeking an elegant affair or an outdoor rustic gathering. Columbus’ venues are also all different sizes for a grand wedding with several hundred guests, or a small and intimate gathering of the couple’s closest family and friends. There are also several venues perfect for rehearsal dinners, bride’s parties, or bachelor’s parties.

The four biggest and most popular venues are the Stafford Opera House, the Live Oak Art Center, Schneider Hall, and Pipers Creek Vineyard. Columbus also has Big Easy Ranch, the Historic Brandon House, St. Roch Parish Hall, Riverview Ranch, Columbus Hall, the Colorado County Fairgrounds, and the Columbus Municipal Golf Association Clubhouse.

The Stafford Opera House is the pinnacle of old-time elegance, and is very spacious. The iconic facade immediately sets the stage for special events. Guests enter a space that’s alive with historic charm and bygone grandeur where, in its heyday, guests once arrived by horse and carriage to attend performances. Today, visitors can still feel that original elegance through the well-preserved architecture and period interiors of the historic building. The neutral color palette provides the perfect backdrop to design each event. The Grand Hall upstairs accommodates up to 250 people with a space for a dance floor, or 300 people without, depending on table layout. It is also a perfect ceremony location, accommodating as many as 350 guests in theater-style seating. Downstairs, the Buddy Rau Room can hold 80 to 125 guests in its open-concept space, depending on seating arrangements. It is perfect to make an impact on guests while also helping the Columbus Historical Preservation Trust continue to restore and preserve this beautiful piece of Texas history.

Not only is Pipers Creek Vineyard one of the few vineyards to grow the French Villiard Blanc grape, but it is also one of Columbus’ popular wedding venues. Their open-air barn seats 200 guests and is ready for any event. The cedar trussed barn features black farmhouse lighting, salvaged oak, and aged tin. They are even pet friendly–polite pups on leashes are welcome to join in on

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VenueTip. .

Estimate how many people you’d like to invite to your big day, since not all places can accommodate a wide variety of wedding sizes. Nearly every venue will have a guest count minimum and maximum.

the festivities. They boast on their website that, “Pipers Creek Vineyard is located on historic property on which in 1835, absolutely nothing happened.” Guests can relax on three covered porches while sipping wine at this one-of-a-kind vineyard, without the need to travel to Fredericksburg.

If a couple is looking for their wedding to be a vibrant and cultural experience, they could have their wedding at the Live Oak Art Center, located in the 1891 Brunson Building in Columbus’ Historic District. It was incorporated in 1986, and is an independent nonprofit organization that showcases innovative contemporary art. There is 900 square feet available in the downstairs gallery and 1200 square feet in the upstairs gallery.

There is also a beautiful, brick outdoor courtyard with a serving area that can accommodate close to 100 people that is the perfect extension for a gathering, whether indoors or out. Normally, The Courtyard Wine Bar serves as an intimate space where guests can enjoy over 60 wines and 50 craft beers from around the world to pair with their delicious petite fare. The Live Oak Art Center can also provide all of the amenities needed for any event, including event planning, tables and chairs, linens, table settings, and catering.

Photo by Photos by Lydia

Whereas the Opera House represents “old-time elegance,” Schneider Hall epitomizes “old-time funky,” according to Billy Kahn, the Columbus Chamber of Commerce Executive Director. It is an original Texas Dance Hall, nestled in a grove of ancient oaks and surrounded by rolling grasslands. It has been restored and is located on a 175-acre farm that offers the rustic charm and comfortable setting that only a dance hall can bring you. The dance hall operated throughout the 1930s before closing in 1942, but continued to host events through the 1950s. It was then used for hay storage until 2009, when renovations began so that it could host a wedding reception. Every effort was taken to ensure the original integrity of the dance hall. Old wood from other structures was used, standalone bathrooms were built, a large deck was added to the rear of the hall, and water and electricity were included once the renovations were completed in May of 2010. While there is no air conditioning, the many large windows that open up allow a comfortable breeze to flow through the building. Acres and acres of beautiful, 100-year-old live oak trees adorn the property. Couples can experience their own fairy tale as they walk amidst the oaks and dance under twinkling lights with those they love most. Schneider Hall offers a wide array of packages and services customized to fit each couple’s version of happily ever after.

“Thousands of brides gather at the Houston Bridal Extravaganza and they go to destinations in Montgomery, Magnolia, Conroe, places like that, and spend a fortune just to have something a little bit ‘out in the country,’” said Kahn. “Brides from this area sometimes do the same thing; however, they could have come to Columbus to find exactly what they were looking for.”

And often, without the competitive urban pricing that those other areas might charge.

These venues in Columbus are the perfect destination in part due to Columbus’ location. For example, there are many situations where a bride’s family lives in Katy and the groom’s family lives in Austin, and Columbus has proven to be the perfect midway point between both cities. There are also hotels, bed and breakfasts, caterers, photographers, stylists, florists– everything a bride would need for a wedding of her dreams, right there in Columbus. Even if a couple from La Grange is just looking to get out of Fayette County, they can have their wedding in Columbus, and then be home in 25 minutes afterwards. Lots of variety can be found without having to travel so far away.

FEBRUARY 2019 | 15

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1490 Fm 2104, Smithville, Texas 78957 FEBRUARY 2019 | 17

NATIONAL BANK AND TRUST WHEREVER LIFE TAKES YOU, WE WILL BE THERE When couples get married, there are lots of expenses: new house, new vehicle, the wedding itself, and more. National Bank & Trust is here to help new couples, whether it’s offering loan products to help pay for weddings and expenses, opening a joint account, or counseling and educating new couples on how to start a good financial life together.

NBT offers different deposit accounts for new couples, such as savings accounts, CDs, or IRAs. CDs, or certificate of deposit accounts, are investment accounts with a guaranteed, locked-in interest rate for certain time period, which can vary. The caveat is the account holder cannot pull money from the account until maturity; if they do, there is a penalty for do so. CDs are a good way to grow money at a very conservative rate. CD rates are typically higher that checking or savings account rates. An IRA, or individual retirement account, involves setting up an account for the future. An IRA is a government sponsored, tax-deferred personal retirement plan. ... Taxes on IRA contributions and earnings are deferred until the account owner takes a distribution.

When money is withdrawn from an IRA, it is taxed as regular income.

The trend of massive weddings is starting to fade because millennials between the ages of 22 and 30 don’t want to go into that debt. Instead people are taking the money for weddings from their and are using it to buy a house, a new car, going on a memorable vacation, or using it to get started on their life in being financially responsible. It’s a very small group of people, but it’s a group that NBT would like to see grow in the future!

NBT’s goal is to guide people so they start on the right track to financial stability in five or ten years. NBT wants to make sure that our clients are satisfied with their experience and financial goals.

One of our most important goals of NBT is to help the younger generation who are moving back to La Grange or staying in La 18 | FEBRUARY 2019 wedding guide

Grange to start being financially responsible with a “hometown community bank.” We strive to help everyone, whether they are 18 or 118. If couples decide to leave La Grange, NBT has made it possible to continue banking with us using our mobile app.

Thanks to the app, it’s possible for couples who stay in La Grange to get married, or move to somewhere such as Waco, Austin, or Houston, to still bank with NBT. NBT has made is possible to receive the hometown banking experience they grew up with no matter where their life takes them.

Helping new couples start out on the right foot for over 130 years!

Give us a call TODAY at (979) 968-3136

FEBRUARY 2019 | 19

LG SPIRITS BEER AND WINE PROVIDING BEVERAGES FOR PARTIES OF ALL SIZES You’ve worked out every detail of your wedding: the classiest invitations, the perfect location, the most beautiful dress, the flowers, the bridesmaids and groomsmen. You’ve left nothing to chance. LG Spirits, Beer and Wine can provide the same attention to detail when it comes to providing the beverages you serve your guests.

match your meal or a tasty champagne to toast the bride and groom.

If they don’t have it, they’ll get it.

LG Spirits is your “must visit” for wedding plans. They offer a wide selection of domestic and imported beers available in kegs, bottles, or cans. From their wide selection of Texas whiskeys to their top shelf tequilas, their distilled spirits will add excitement to your wedding. They can also recommend a pairing of fine wines to

LG Spirits opened its doors in April of 2014 and was promptly voted “Best Liquor/Wine Shop in Fayette County” for 2014. They have received this award every year since then.

If you want your wedding to be a true “Texas Experience,” LG Spirits is the place you want to go. They offer an assortment of spirits, beer and wine hand-crafted in Texas.

The business is owned and operated by Grace Pulkrabek and Larry Glass. Larry, a native of South Austin, worked for LCRA for over 30 years in Fayette County. Grace, a native of Plum, manages the day-today operations and will be glad to assist with your wedding plans.

Whether you want 10 pounds or 1,000 pounds of ice, or mixers to go with your spirits, they can meet your needs.

And don’t forget the celebratory cigar! Czech our their well-stocked humidor.

They can deliver and pick up in the local area, or you can pick up right here at Fayette County’s only truly convenient drive through.

Drive through or stroll in for all your Wedding Day Beverage needs!

Plus a well Stocked Humidor and Kegs of Beer

(979) 968-3440

1381 W. State Hwy 71 La Grange, TX

Mon-Sat 10 am to 9 pm

20 | FEBRUARY 2019 wedding guide

LG Spirits is conveniently located at 1381 West State Highway 71 in La Grange, Texas.

Come tour the stunning Carby Chapel Center with picture perfect views of the countryside.

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979.966.3503 www.tanyasyounique.com FEBRUARY 2019 | 21

Donna and Anthony JULY 14, 2018 - LA GRANGE, TEXAS - BRITTANY DAWSON PHOTOGRAPHY Donna Webb and Anthony Wessels, father of Charlee and Cash Wessels, were married on Saturday, July 14, 2018 at their home in Mullins Prairie. Floral arrangements were provided by Smithville Florist. Various dishes were provided

by Whataburger, CC’s Country Barbeque, Schulenburg Country Bakery, and Royers. The bride’s dress was from Serendipity Bridal in Austin. Makeup was done by Catherine at Réve Salon. Hair was also done by Réve Salon. The photographer was Brittany Dawson Photography. The cake was made by The Best Little Cake Shop.

22 | FEBRUARY 2019 wedding guide

The Details

Venue: Their Home in La Grange Hair: Réve Hair Salon

Makeup: Catherine Hill - Réve Hair Salon Dress: Serendipity Bridal Florist: Smithville Florist Music: Keith Hickle Cake: Best Little Cake Shop in Texas Catering: Royers Cafe, Whataburger, & CC’s Country Barbeque Dessert: Kountry Bakery in Schulenburg Photographer: Brittany Dawson Photography

FEBRUARY 2019 | 23

KEEPING WITHIN YOUR BUDGET HOW TO CURTAIL WEDDING SPENDING AND STILL IMPRESS GUESTS Tying the knot can be an expensive endeavor. According to The Knot 2017 Real Weddings Study, which surveyed nearly 13,000 brides and grooms in the United States who got married in 2017, the average cost of a wedding was more than $33,000.

That figure may surprise some couples planning their weddings, many of whom may not be able to afford spending so much on their ceremonies and receptions. Couples may feel pressure to compete with friends and relatives whose weddings they have attended in the past, and that may compel some to stretch their budgets and even go into debt to finance their nuptials. However, there are ways for couples to curtail their wedding spending and impress guests at the same time.

TRIM THE GUEST LIST. The 2017 Real Weddings Study found that couples spent an average of $268 per guest in 2017. Many couples are recognizing that smaller guest lists are a great way to lower wedding spending, and The Knot study found that the average guest count decreased from 149 in 2009 to 136 in 2017.

Trimming the guest list may seem harsh, but couples who work together need not cut their guest lists in half. By working together, couples can likely find between 10 and 15 acquaintances on their initial lists who won’t be offended if they’re not invited. Couples who spend the 2017 average per guest can save nearly $3,000 by removing just 10 people from their guest lists.

EXPAND YOUR VENUE HORIZONS. A greater number of couples are looking beyond traditional wedding venues and opting for more unique locales to tie the knot. The 2017 Real Weddings Study found that 15 percent of 2017 weddings were held on farms, ranches and even in barns, while just 2 percent of weddings were hosted in such venues in 2009. The growing popularity of unique wedding venues may make some locations more expensive than couples anticipate, but a willingness to tie the knot in a unique venue greatly increases couples’ options, improving the chances they will find more affordable venues.

CUT BACK ON GUEST ENTERTAINMENT. Customizing experiences for guests is a major reason why today’s couples are spending so much more per guest than their predecessors.

Spending for customized guest entertainment, which includes things like photo booths, sparklers and video booths, tripled between 2009 and 2017. Couples may want to give their guests 24 | FEBRUARY 2019 wedding guide

unique experiences, but should not stretch their budgets or go into debt to do so.

TIE THE KNOT IN WINTER. Summer and fall were the most popular wedding seasons in 2017, and that does not figure to change anytime soon. Couples can take advantage of those trends by getting married in winter, a slow season for wedding venues and vendors, who might be more flexible with their prices. The most popular months to tie the knot in 2017 were September, June and October, so couples who don’t want to wed in winter but want to avoid paying top prices should avoid those three months.

Weddings are expensive, but couples can find ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality.

Hospice Boutique The Boutique's Bridal Room is Brenham's kept secret!

Sizes best Petite through Plus

Gowns,  Shoes & Accessories Monday | Friday 10am-5pm     Saturday 10am-2pm

114 East Alamo | Brenham New & Nearly New

REBECKA GARTMAN cake artist/owner

346-307-5353

sweetalysebakery@hotmail.com

Everyone will want to know all about it.

Share your good news on the pages of The Fayette County Record.

For 97 years, the Record has been publishing the pictures and stories of Fayette County weddings. Be sure to let the newspaper know of your plans. Drop by the office and pick up information on getting your engagement and wedding pictures published. We were part of your grandmother’s wedding day.

We want to be part of yours, too.

Please see website for additional details and booking information

FEBRUARY 2019 | 25

Austin and Miranda Lynch were married at Union on Eighth in Georgetown

Bethany and Joshua Berger were married October 6, 2018 at the Casino Hall in La Grange

Photo by Roaming Wild Photography Donna Webb and Anthony Wessels

T M m L

Photo by Albrecht Artistic Photography

Photo by Brittany Dawson Photography

LOCAL WEDDINGS BRIDES AND GROOMS ENJOYING THEIR SPECIAL DAY

Kayla Wallace and Neal Frerichs

Photo by Brittany Dawson Photography

Maria Minzenmeyer and Brent Stewart

Photo by Brittany Dawson Photography

K

Jarrod and Tiffany Jamail were married in Round Top

Photo by Joely Rodgers

Tyler & Kember McCoy were married in Lincoln

Photo by Michael Corcoran Jr.

Chad and Rebecca Adams got married in Lincoln

Photo by Leanne Faldyn

Kortney Parchman and Trent Schielack

Photo by Leanne Faldyn

Tia and Jeffrey Talley were married at First Baptist Church in Giddings

Photo by Brittany Dawson Photography

Justin and Amanda Whited got married at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda

Photo by Jennifer Horne

Kortney and Trent APRIL 14, 2018 - THE VINE - NEW ULM, TEXAS - BRITTANY DAWSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Kortney Parchman, daughter of Kim Naumann, and Trent Schielack were married on Saturday, April 14, 2018, at The Vine in New Ulm. Floral arrangements were provided by Bloomin’ Junction. Catering was done by Red Sage. The coordinator was Shelby, with Lean On Me Events. The cake was made by The Best Little Cake Shop. Ceremony music was performed by the College Station String Quartet. Officiating were Matt and Jen Kindsvatter. The videographer was Gabe Garza. Makeup and hair was done by Taylor Toddy, Crystal Richter, and Kellie Outlaw. The photographer was Brittany Dawson Photography.

28 | FEBRUARY 2019 wedding guide

The Details

Venue: The Vine Make Up : Taylor Toddy Hair: Crystal Richter and Kellie Outlaw Florals: Blooming Junction Catering: Red Sage Coordinator: Shelby with Lean On Me Events Cake: The Best Little Cake Shop Ceremony music: College Station String Quartet Officiant: Matt and Jen Kindsvatter Videograper: Gabe Garza Photographer: Brittany Dawson Photography

FEBRUARY 2019 | 29

Advertiser Index Becky Weise...........................................................16 Brawley Clinic.........................................................16 Bridal Rail..............................................................32 Cedar Frame...........................................................17 Columbus Chamber of Commerce.......................31 Ellinger Chamber of Commerce...........................17 Fayette County Record................................19 & 25 Festival Hill............................................................30 Henkel Hall..............................................................3 Hospice Boutique..................................................25 Le Petite...................................................................2 LG Spirits..............................................................20

Lutherhill Ministries.........................................21 Muldoon Mercantile........................................25 National Bank and Trust.....................................19 Réve Salon.........................................................21 Schulenburg Printing.......................................21 Studio 94...........................................................16 Sweet Alyse Bakery.........................................25 The Best Little Cake Shop in Texas...................5 The Oak Motel................................................16 Urban Cowboy..................................................17 Younique by Tanya............................................21

A Festival Hill Wedding The PerfecT Marriage of BeauTy and One-STOP SiMPliciTy Ceremony in Historic Chapel

Dining

Accommodations

Reception

Photography

The Festival Hill Campus of

Round Top FesTival insTiTuTe

248 Jaster Road, Round Top, TX 78954 • (979) 249-3129 • festivalhill.org 30 | FEBRUARY 2019 wedding guide

Scenic Location

Consider Columbus Big city amenities - Small town charm Consider Columbus for the wedding of your dreams. This quaint town located a short drive from Houston, San Antonio, and Austin offers beautiful scenery, delicious cuisine, talented stylists, and amazing amenities. Let our experts help you build a fairy tale that will take root in the imagination and memories of all your guests for years to come. Whether you’re looking for an elegantly rustic feel or are drawn to a modern, clean look, Columbus has the venue, talent and people to make your dream a reality.

Ten Unique Venues Lodging Catering Music Florists Stylists And More! www.columbustexas.org

979-732-8385

assist@columbustexas.org

The Bridal Rail Where forever begins...

The Bridal Rail 361.596.7772 | www.thebridalrail.com 100 West Moore | Moulton, TX 77975

Come see for yourself why so many brides choose...