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Hill Country Weddings & Events

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Spring 2016


From the Publishers PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY Hill Country Weddings Magazine Publishers Brenda Sealy Crystal Wiedenfeld Editors Ron and Cheryl Lehman Graphic Design/Art Direction Brenda Sealy Advertising Sales Lisa Bourgeois Brenda Sealy Contributing Writers Crystal Wiedenfeld Contributing Photographers Benjamin Garrett Phtography Chandra’s Collection Photography Limelight Photography Rebecca McCoy Photography Hill Country Weddings is published quarterly and promotes city, community, and business activities in and around the Texas Hill Country. Our mailing address and HGLWRULDO RɤFH LV ORFDWHG DW 624 North Main Street #105 Boerne, TX 78006 Ph # 830-816-5215 info@hillcountryweddingsmagazine.com www.hillcountryweddingsmagazine.com © Hill Country Weddings Magazine

Send queries about articles or photographs to Hill Country Weddings Magazine at 624 North Main St, Boerne TX 78006. For advertising information call (830) 816-5215; email info@hillcountryweddings.com. NEWS POLICY Hill Country Weddings Magazine encourages submission of news and event announcement items. News and event announcements must include contact name and contact phone number. All news and event items must be for activities that occur inside the Texas hill country and are subject for review prior to submission. Publication cannot be guaranteed. If you would like to submit an item to Hill Country Weddings Magazine, email us at info@hillcountryweddingsmagazine.com or call us at (830) 816-5215. The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the Hill Country Weddings Magazine. All products and services advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental handicap, political affiliation or other nonmerit factor of purchaser, user or patron. Any publication of Hill Country Weddings Magazine, whether draft or final is sole property of the Hill Country Weddings Magazine and cannot be reproduced or distributed in any way, whether in print or electronically, without the express permission and written consent of the Hill Country Weddings Magazine.

We are excited to bring you the second Spring issue of Hill Country Weddings & Events Magazine! We are pleasantly overwhelmed with the positive response from readers of our first issues! We are excited that we have officially made it over the one year bump. Thank you so much for your support. We hope that you enjoy the fifth issue as much as we enjoyed preparing it for you. Brenda Sealy, a Boerne native and owner of Hill Country Planning, the premier wedding and event planner in the Texas Hill Country, has over ten years experience and enjoys all aspects of the industry. Brenda has dreamed of planning special events since she was little. Now that she is doing what she loves, she has decided to expand her dreams into something larger. Crystal Wiedenfeld has always had a love for fashion and style, whether it is hair and makeup or clothes and design. After doing what she loved for over ten years she opened Simply Serene Salon and Spa in her hometown of Boerne, TX. She spent years telling anyone who would listen about her fashion tips and hair trends.

As sisters they put their heads together to create a magazine where they could both grow and continue their dreams. Hill Country Weddings & Events Magazine features everything from weddings to events, style, fashion and more. Nothing could be more exciting or anticipated than a bride’s walk down the aisle! If you’re planning on tying the knot, the Texas Hill Country has proven to be an ideal location to say your I Do’s! We have provided all the resources you will need to plan your special day. If there’s one piece of advice that continues to ring true, it’s this: take time to enjoy your engagement, plan a wedding that reflects you as a couple and get a wedding planner.

This is just the beginning. Other unique ideas, columns and features will be added as we continue growing and expanding Hill Country Weddings & Events Magazine. We started our magazine with just thirty-six pages and have increased to forty four already. Can you believe how much we have grown in just a year? We are beyond excited for the amazing things to come and thank everyone for being a part of our journey with us.

cheers, Brenda & Crystal Photos by: Rebecca McCoy and LimeLight San Antonio


Cover Photo Contest

Cover Photo by: Benjamin Garrett Photography at CW Hill Country Ranch

TOP FIVE COVER PHOTOS Hill Country Weddings & Events Magazine holds a contest on our Facebook page inviting all fans to post their favorite Hill Country Wedding photos for a chance at the cover. Our 2015 issues were a success and we are now excited to start the 2016 issue contests! Hill Country Weddings staff will select up to 100 photos tos to highlight in an album to be posted and will then invite ourr entire Facebook community to “vote” for their favorite photoo by liking and/or sharing the photo. The Top 10 pictures will be chosen and then will be narrowed down to the Top 5! The Top 5 will be published in the magazine and one lucky winner will be featured on the cover once chosen by the committee. So find your favorite photo and be ready to start sharing it on our Facebook page for a chance at the cover!

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Photos by: Benjamin Garrett Photography, Kristi Bracewell Photography and Kayla Jane Photography


Spring News

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Do you have a wedding planner? Do you need one? Spring Colors Getting Wedding Ready

The Texas Hill Country is one of the most sought after locations in the United States to host your happiest memories. Here is a map of all the local possibilities.

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Engagement Photo Contest TOP ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS

For a chance to be in the magazine, send your engagement photos to info@hillcountryweddingsmagazine.com Photos by: Argento Photography, Audra Weeks Photography, Dream Photo and Video, Kayla Jane Photography, No Ugly Photos, Sarah Naselli, Tracy Autem Photography, Twinty Photography and West Vita Photography


HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Thank you for investing your time and creative energy in our publication, Hill Country Weddings & Events Magazine. Our first year has been a total success and there is absolutely no way we could have done it without your support. Your contributions

to the magazine have helped us grow not only in page numbers, but also in quality and influence. Our collaboration has proven the power of teamwork and for that we are tremendously thankful! We look

forward to the opportunities that the New Year brings and are beyond thrilled to continue to grow and expand over the next year! If you have any ideas, requests or recommendations please do not hesitate to

contact us at info@hillcountryweddingsmagazine.com or (830) 816-5215. We value your opinions and look forward to hearing from you.

MEET THE COVER PHOTO COUPLE... Matthew & Bonnie Allen

We got engaged on January 17, 2015 in Wimberley, Texas along the banks of Cypress Creek. Wimberley is a special place to me and to my family. Little did I know, in the weeks prior to his proposal, Matthew had

been very busy planning. He secretly met with my parents and asked for their blessing, singlehandedly chose my engagement ring, and made arrangements for our families and friends to meet us at The Leaning Pear Restaurant in Wimberley after the proposal. Matthew told me we were going to meet a friend of his for a double date that afternoon. Upon our arrival, he told me we were early and should go down to the banks of Cypress Creek for a walk. He had also arranged for some of our best friends to be on a bridge

in the distance, ready to capture this special moment with cameras! Following the proposal, we went to The Leaning Pear for dinner, and to my great surprise, there waiting for us was all of our family and friends, including his parents, who came all the way from Tennessee. Our wedding theme was a combination of southern charm and hill country rustic. We wanted to blend Matthew’s southern roots while still representing the great state of Texas. SPRING 2016

We were married outside Boerne, at CW Hill Country Ranch and Bed & Breakfast on October 24, 2015. One of our favorite memories, and one of the best decisions we made in planning our wedding, was enlisting the services of our photographer, Benjamin Garrett. He truly became part of the family by the time it was all over!

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FLORAL TIPS FOR SPRING Begin your floral planning for your wedding as soon as you can. The average planning time is 12 months, and many vendors are booked accordingly. Decide on your color scheme, and a vision or “feel” for your wedding. Then put pencil to paper and come up with a budget you feel comfortable spending. A good floral consultant will make suggestions that are realistic for your budget, but still reflect your vision. There are always beautiful alternatives to pricier floral selections. Be open minded and honest with your consultant, explaining your likes and dislikes. When you think of your ceremony decorations, remember that your guests will spend little time at the ceremony and the entire evening at the reception. So, when you discuss your ceremony flowers with your floral consultant, ask for ideas that can double as reception decorations. If you use pew ends or hanging jars on Sheppard’s hooks at the

Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food and medicine for the soul. -Luther Burbank ceremony, you can move them to decorate the chairs at the head table, or incorporate the hanging jars into centerpiece groupings. When you are looking for the best value for your money, you need to think of flowers that are in season and hand-tied bouquets. Some flowers such as roses, orchids, calla lilies and chrysanthemums are usually available year round. Consider a monochromatic look by selecting one color and build your bouquet around that color to make a visual impact. If there is a flower that you really like, but an entire bouquet of it would break the bank, try coupling it with a less-expensive flower of the same color. The result is lush and attractive.


Hiring Wedding Planners and Professional Vendors Weddings are an investment and a once in a lifetime magical event for two people to celebrate. Do you want to sit back and enjoy your wedding? Do you want your aunt, mom or cousin to celebrate with you and enjoy the day? Then hire a planner to take care of all the vendors and details! Hiring both a planner and professional vendors makes the day flow with ease. If you are a DIY bride, who is going to set up and take down those items? Leave that to the professionals! It is important to note that no wedding is perfect, nor will be perfect. It just won’t happen. But one way to get really close to perfect is to hire a professional wedding planner and professional vendors. Wedding planners have developed relationships with vendors and gained confidence in their performance from

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working with them over time. Wedding planners have figured out who is talented, reliable and essentially the best in the business. Although venues have vendor recommendations, a wedding planner has a vast list of professional vendors that they work with and know. They know which ones show up on time, communicate effectively, and are passionate about their services. They are able to look over contracts, negotiate prices, and be the go-between. The process of vendor research is extremely time consuming but a wedding planner is there to help you decide and bring you the resources that best fit your needs. Many times, couples are so worn out with making decisions on their own that by the time the wedding is here, the process is no longer fun. A wedding planner does not make your decisions, but provides you with the tools needed to make the right decisions. They are

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your planning partners! A few more reasons to hire a planner‌ You need a mediator. A planner is a good third-party mediator in tricky family situations. It is nearly impossible to please everyone but a wedding planner makes it (almost) doable! Planners can save you time and money through developing a realistic budget and through insider deals with close vendors. Let go and allow your planner to be organized, build a timeline, solve problems, and manage vendors and all the details. Use them for their knowledge, connections and stress reducing skills! Give your family and most importantly, yourself, the gift of a wedding planner! You deserve it!


Quick Tips for Music at your Next Event

QUESTIONS FOR THE PROFESSIONAL DJ By: John Work Questions for the Professional DJ! There are many types of entertainment possibilities or options for your wedding day. This article will focus on DJ’s and suggest the approach for interviewing a DJ as your main entertainment and source for music. This process should be the same as interviewing for a job… An important job where you are CEO! In my opinion, professional entertainment is among the most important parts of your wedding day. Having professionals around you can make or break the day. A professional wedding DJ can provide an experience that resonates with you, your family and friends for years! Below are various questions you can ask a DJ. Some personal insights are also shared. Before we get started with all the questions below, check their availability for your date! This question will help narrow down your options from the start. The answer to this question will save time throughout this process with all venders.

many DJ’s that provide services for a company. We each have our own personalities and methods of conducting business, communicating, reacting and responding. We have various levels of experience and our focus or preference for events contracted many differ as well as the preferred location and expected environment. Some of us are wedding DJ’s, club DJ’s and various mobile DJ’s. Some like the art of mixing music while other love to remix the music. Some like weddings and some do not. This is good to know. Additionally, the tools we use are important and must be able to handle the job. Some DJ’s use computers while others prefer turntables. Some like new technology, while some prefer traditional technology. It is essential to have professional gear. It can separate the presentation of appearance, music, sound quality, and the result. A professional will share their pride and talk about the benefits they can offer to you and for you on your wedding day.

What makes you different from others? Some DJ’s do this as a fulltime business others are part-time. Some are single operators while others are multi–operators and have

Can you share your experience? Ask about their length of time in the industry and length of time in business. How long have you been a DJ? Is this a business or

hobby? Are you a wedding DJ? How many weddings have you done? How many ceremonies have you done? Listen to how they discuss their business, and to how they connect with their customers. Their experience and relationships with clients and vendors will be noticeable. How many weddings or other events do you do each year/week/day? Like any job, you must learn to be proficient. Some DJ’s work only on Saturdays and some may schedule events throughout a weekend. The work we do varies with the needs of our clients. We do events on weekdays and holidays. Some want to average 40 to 50 events per year. Some many only schedule

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two events per month. Others schedule between 5 and 10 events per month resulting in 60 to events in a given year. We each have a passion for what we do. Some do more, some do less, but the passion is still there. Ask about their schedule and why so many or why so few. Each answer shared may have its own merit or not. How many types of events do you do? In the past 10 years, many companies within the wedding industry have diversified their services. DJ companies cont’d on page 13

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http://www.vrbo.com/preview/615915


Music at Your Next Event

on the contract.

cont’d from page 11

What happens if you cannot make it to the wedding (…an emergency occurs)? This should be stated in your contract. Most professional companies and DJ’s have a backup plan in place. Clarify what would be the process if this situation were to occur. Many DJ’s network with other DJ’s so even solo operators have this contingency in place. Ask the person you plan to hire about their plan.

are not immune to the need to diversify and have depth. There are some DJ’s and companies who only play music and do so the old fashion way. Other companies offer various types of sound and lighting packages plus music videos. Music and lighting have always been a part of what we do, however, we can do more. In the same way, there are many types of events. There are corporate events, private events, weddings, debuts, graduation parties, birthday parties and a number of other types of social gatherings where the right DJ/MC can make it successful. Some focus on particular types of events i.e. weddings; others may have a particular preference and it is not weddings. Ask about their focus and does that focus work for you. Do you act as the emcee and make announcements? Making announcements during the reception is part of the wedding DJ’s role. Most wedding DJ’s can assist with the timeline and make necessary announcements as needed. You may not want a DJ who talks all the time, but has the skill to do so when needed and is comfortable. This should be evident when they talk about experience and the role they play and have played in past receptions. Every DJ is not an emcee. Do you have a contract? A contract is a written agree-

ment between you and the DJ. All professional services will have a contract with all the specifics stated! Be sure to confirm all services needed and legalities. Again, the contract highlights the expectations and requirements for the services promised. A contract can be simple, or it can be complex. Some of the things to look for on the contract are the start and end times for the ceremony and reception or just the reception if that is the only service required. The address for the venue should be listed as well as the reception and ceremony site. Confirm options and cost if you would like to extend service. A contract should be easy to read. Be aware of every point and ask for clarity for terminology that is not clear.

Are you insured? Some venues require the DJ to be insured. Some venues require a particular amount of liability. Ask if they carry insurance and how much of this is needed by your venue.

This insurance protects them, you, your guests, and the venue in case of an accident. Can we meet one more time before the wedding? Again, companies and policies vary. Most professional companies will schedule time to meet with you in person, over the phone or video. It is a good plan to schedule time in advance and not wait until the last moment. Many DJ’s like to plan and research music and organize a playlist especially if the music is not mainstream. Become familiar with your DJ and his method to be prepared. Although a change could occur with the layout or last minute details, cont’d on page 35

#1 DJ in San Antonio, Rated by Brides

What is the deposit required to secure our date? A deposit secures your date. Ask about the amount needed to secure your date. The deposit is generally applied to your package and services promised. Some companies and individuals may differ with this process and the application of the deposit may or may not be refundable. If adjustments are needed or specific points need clarity, ask for an explanation and have the contract updated to reflect changes before you place the deposit down. Ask about cancellation fees and the process in case something should occur. The topic of cancellation should be stated

THE FOUR STAR DIFFERENCE: • An attitude that puts you first. • We simply focus on providing the best music entertainment in Texas. • FREE cocktail hour and dinner hour music when you hire us for your reception. • Professionalism is our trademark

Start planning the celebration of your dreams:

210-326-0649 www.fourstardj.com

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hair For the freshest look, the time has come! Let’s cut those locks! Everyone seems to be going for that untamed bob, which I think is a great and refreshing new look going into spring. Conventional highlights are becoming a thing of the past. Hair painting is everywhere now, and if you haven’t tried it, it’s time to give it a whirl! It’s quick, easy and beautiful. A red lip is still making its way through the next season, but now it’s being interpreted as a dark purple maroon color lip, another musthave. I’m in love with it!

makeup

Style & Beauty Tips for Spring

When it comes to shadows, multicolor eye shadows with blues and purple pastels are the look - Easter colors, if you will. A variety of different blue shades of eye shadow is what I have increasingly been seeing. Everything glitter is in full effect for spring, even the armpits (if you are into that lol!!). My suggestion is to stick to glitter on the eyes and lips, and if you must, work your way up to your hair. I have also noticed a lot of disconnected liner. I’m not sure how I’m feeling about it but we shall see as the season rolls through. I’ve also seen a lot of bottom liner only, which gives the innocent Bambi effect. I think this is definitely worth giving a shot! Anything with innocence attached to it offers a youthful effect as well. Light makeup is still in, especially in the eye department. Go easy on the mascara, as heavy lashes aren’t a necessity this spring.

By: Crystal Wiedenfeld

All my picks can be purchased at SSimply Serene Salon and Spa. w www.simplysereneboerne.com

The opposite is true for your brows! Fill those babies in and comb them out for a fuller look. Similar to the messy braids, less tailored brows are the way to go this season. A combed-out, fuller aesthetic is the look we’re going for.

clothing

My must-have for clothes this season is something shoulder-less, or with a shoulder cut-out. Look around, and you will see this fashion everywhere - it is a fun trend. You will also see some puffy sleeves in the world of fashion, but that is something I personally would downplay. The slip dress is also something that will be fun to wear for a nice day trip. Fringe is really hanging on while reinventing itself over the last few seasons - however, I think I might be ready to let it go and move on - lol!

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MAKEUP MUST-HAVES By: Jael Thyberg

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The makeup world has totally taken off in the last couple of years. (Thank you Instagram!) As a makeup artist, I keep up with latest trends of what’s hot right now, what’s new on the market, how we need to keep our faces contoured, and how to highlight too bring more glow to the skin. The list is endless! But I can’t get enough because I love what I do and of course I love makeup. My addiction takes me to Sephora on a nearly daily basis, so I have my history with tons of products. Here I share my absolute favor-ites and the must-haves that I can’t live without.

Becca x Jaclyn Hill Shimmering in Champagne Pop A creamy powder highlighter that absorbs and reflects light for the ultimate natural glow. Buxom Full-On Lip Cream Color in White Russian, Creamscicle & Mai Tai. Right amount of pigment. Super glossy and gives you a wet look with a minty sensation on the lips. Kat Von D Shade + Light Contour Palette Colors in this palette are so pigmented and ultra creamy! For a powder palette, it doesn’t take much to blend out the product. Kat Von D Tattoo Eyeliner This is my favorite eyeliner. No other eyeliner compares to this one. The brush tip applies effortlessly with precise application. Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick Lovestick This shade is a long wear, fullcoverage liquid lipstick with a smooth, matte finish. Urban Decay All-Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray Perfect weightless setting spray that keeps makeup looking just applied for up to 16 hours.

Urban Decay Perversion Mascara Wantt lengthening, voluminous eyelashes? This is the perfect mascara for it. Urban Decay Naked Skin Weightless Ultra-Definition Liquid Makeup I never like to go too heavy under the eyes because we naturally have oils that build up in this location throughout the day. Having too many oils can look cakey. This concealer is buildable with high coverage and feels weightless on the skin. Smashbox Photo Finisher Primer Water Want that good morning refreshing mist? Chill this in the fridge overnight. When you wake up in the morning, spray this on your face before your makeup application. Your skin will be left hydrated and revitalized! NARS All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation Perfect for normal to dry skin. This foundation is oil-free and delivers full coverage. Looks natural and lightweight. Perfect for those long days at work because it is 16- hour wear. Makeup Forever Step 1 Skin Equalizer LOVE this primer! Not only is the mattifying amazing, but also has 10 different primers that assist with balancing the

skin’s texture and tone. For more even and longer-lasting makeup wear. Stila Magnificent Metals Foil Finish Eye Shadow in Dusty Rose & Vintage Black Gold. These are perfect when time isn’t on your side but you still want a hot glam eye with no effort needed. These are buildable, high-metallic cream shadows with a striking foil finish.


WHAT IS A PROFESSIONAL WEDDING OFFICIANT AND WHY DO I NEED ONE? By: Reverend Audrie Henry TX Wedding Ministers Concierge Service

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You aare newlyy eng eengaged, how exciting!! Now w it’s i time to turn am in into a reality. your dreams What a task! Coup Couples often secure fl flowers, ffood, photography and the venue all before someone asks them the magic question, “Who is going to perform your ceremony?” Oh right, the officiant! Although we are the only vendor you actually need to have a legal ceremony, we are usually last on the list. Options for an officiant may include your church clergy member, your Uncle Bill, the retired minister, your friend who got ordained online, or the amateur officiant who has a few ceremonies under their belt. Then there’s the professional wedding officiant. There is more to officiating a wedding than standing up and reading out of a book. When this is someone’s profession, they are going to be dedicated and they know their reputation depends on their reliability. Texas Wedding Ministers only hires professional officiants and has a no cancellation guarantee, so you will never have to worry. A professional in the wedding industry will be important when it comes time to collaborate with the other

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vendors you have hired for your wedding. Many of our responsibilities overlap, so you want someone who can professionally and efficiently work as a team to create a smooth ceremony. Training and experience will also provide the skills necessary to predict and prevent unforeseen issues and maintain composure and control of the ceremony if challenges arise. There are a number of uncontrollable variables such as weather, external noise, overbearing family and guests (trust me on this one), technical difficulties and other distractions. A professional officiant will not be thrown off by these events. They will remain poised and possibly even work it into the ceremony, reminding everyone that life is a spontaneous adventure! Bottom line, you will be the center of attention during one of the most special moments of your life. In addition to having someone with the expertise to guide you, you also want to know that your vision for your ceremony is heard and incorporated. That could mean an outdoor venue rather than a church, or an interfaith or multicultural ceremony that honors both of your backgrounds, etc. When you hire a professional officiant, they will get to know you to create that personalized touch.

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The officiant is the master of ceremonies and can make or break one of the most important days of your life. When comparing officiants, make sure you know what you are getting for the price. Ask yourself: Do the officiants I am looking into hiring: • Have a backup plan if they cannot perform my ceremony? • Have insurance? • Have proper training and experience? • Have a concierge service

or office I can call? • Have pricing within the national average? • Have reviews, videos and other resources that display their work? If you choose Texas Wedding Ministers you can be assured all these important elements are covered, alleviating you of stress so you may enjoy and focus on what the day is truly about: “Marrying the one you LOVE!”


An Elegant Day Awaits You

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For a truly Southern-style wedding with timeless appeal and picturesque scenery, Kendall Plantation is the place to say “I do.� Set atop a hill, which offers amazing views of the Hill Country and cool breezes anytime of the year, Kendall Plantation highlights some of the most desirable features for today’s bride. We offer two distinct locations to vow forever: the gazebo, which overlooks a natural spring pond, or an indoor ceremony underneath a cascading staircase. The venue features wraparound porches, large columns, hardwood floors and classic architecture—perfect for a bride looking for a distinct yet classic look.

s WEDDINGS KENDALLPLANTATION COM s 'UTHRIE 2OAD "OERNE 4EXAS s WWW KENDALLPLANTATION COM


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Where Special Events Happen!

Happy H Ranch ~ P.O. Box 510 Comfort, Texas 78013 ~ info@HappyHRanch.com ~ 210.332.3151 www.HappyHRanch.com


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SPRING COLORS FOR YOUR WEDDING

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Spring season transports us into a happier, sunnier place with some breathtaking wedding colors and ideas. While the majority of the spring palette leans toward calmness, a few diversions from the theme emerge and offer up some contrast.

with pink and gold is a recipe for romance.

The top 7 colors this season are pink, peach, light blue, aqua, maritime blue, gray and green.

4. Maritime blue plays in the navy family, but with a happier, more energetic feel. Try adding some chocolate brown or other neutral colors for a chic, rustic wedding theme.

1. Pink is a classic color used in wedding decorations and the first trending wedding color in 2016. Its soothing, calming nature conveys compassion and a sense of composure. 2. As a shade of orange, peach is another trending color and evokes warmth and accessibility. Mixing peach

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3. A shade of light blue will make every part of the wedding day so comfortable, just like the blue sky! Peach compliments blue so feel free to use it as an accent color.

5. Aqua suggests clarity and freshness, as its crisp and modern influences evoke a deliberate, mindful tranquility. 6. Who doesn’t love grays? We need a gray shade in every season!

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7. Various green hues are nott very common for primary wedding colors but have been trending as of late. Pair with navy blue for a brilliantt scheme! If you’re looking for a color to soften any of the above, opt for iced coffee. It’s neutral and goes beautifully with h all colors.


CAPTURE THE Magic ON VIDEO

Kyle Nibling PENITENT MAN PRODUCTIONS Videography Company

713-443-5841 penitentmanproductions@gmail.com

Videography for: Weddings, Rehearsals, Parties, Sports, Dance, Real Estate, On-Location Vacations ... and More.

CHAMPAGNE AT YOUR WEDDING Historically used for special occasions, champagne naturally goes hand-in-hand with weddings. Whether you’re serving champagne for toasts, having it serve as escort cards or even including it in a signature cocktail, there’s no shortage of creative ways to include champagne at your reception.

Have the bartender craft a signature champagne drink to serve during cocktail hour and add colorful stirrers for that special touch of style. Create custom champagne bottles featuring your names and wedding date to serve as part of your wedding decor or centerpieces.

You might: Serve mini bottles of champagne with cute tags. These favors won’t be left behind! Use the champagne bottles as the seating chart by setting up a table outside the reception and have guests grab the bottle to guide them to their table.

Calm your nerves and have a final toast with your girls before you walk down the aisle.


Photo by: Mint Photography


Photo by: Brittany Dawson Photography


Choosing the Right Caterer The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach and the same goes for your wedding guests! The menu is one of the most important aspects of your wedding. Here are some questions to help you choose the right caterer.

T

that may be added on to the total bill is gratuity so check with your catering company to find out what a reasonable gratuity may be.

When will you set up? Nothing is worse than having your catering banging and disrupting your ceremony. If your ceremony is near the reWhat is included in your ception site, this is important plate price? Many caterers do not include to discuss in advance. You do travel, service charge, setup, not want catering setting up as guests are watching you be delivery or even possibly plates in the per person price announced or walking down advertised. These extra fees the aisle. add up very quickly. The best way to find out the bot- How long will you serve? tom line is to have the cater- Most caterers have a set er send you an invoice that amount of time that they will shows all the fees involved so be serving your guests. This that you can actually deter- may be determined by the number of guests you have at mine what the per person your event. There may be an price really is. Another fee

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extra fee for all-night service. Some catering companies come in, serve and leave and others may have a three-hour time frame for guests to enjoy and not feel rushed. Always check serving times with the catering company. Do you clean up or bus tables? Depending on your venue, this can be very important. You want to know how much of the clean up the caterer has included in their price. If they are not cleaning up, who is? Make sure you are hiring a full service catering company and not one who serves food and leaves you and your guests to clean up the mess. What happens to the left-

over food? If you have fewer guests than you planned, you may have food left over. Some caterers take the food with them and others package it for you. Check with your caterer to make sure you are left what you paid for at the end of the night. This makes for a great meal the following day for the out of town guests or extras you may have over. What deposit do you require and what is your cancellation policy? The amount needed for a deposit varies widely from one caterer to another. Knowing what you are required to pay to save your date will help with budgeting. Cancellation policies also vary with different companies.


Do you have your copy? Take a picture with the magazine and send it to us for your chance to be featured in the Hill Country Weddings & Events Magazine!! info@HillCountryWeddingsMagazine.com

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GETTING WEDDING READY!

By: Nicole Richard Personal Trainer, Boerne YMCA

If you are altar-bound right now, odds are that you’re practicing your new signature, monogramming every piece of cloth that can say ‘Mr. and Mrs.’ and still scanning gifts for your wedding registry. You’re also hoping that you’ll be extra appealing to your “intended” as they stare at you on your slow stroll down the aisle to a song that may last 3 minutes. (Make that a super slow stroll.)

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Every bride wants to look and feel perfect on her wedding day. No bride wants the feeling of being squeezed into the dress or looking at her wedding photo album with regret. So here are a few health and wellness tips for your Wedding Ready Body. NIX THE BOOZE, SALT & SUGAR. If you’re serious about wanting to look even more amazing for your wedding, back off of the bloaters. This doesn’t mean you have to starve yourself. Just about every bride I know loses 5 pounds a few days before she is married due to stress and nerves. MIX IT UP. “If you always do what you always did, you’ll always get what you always got!” Dip into as many fit-

ness disciplines as possible. Try new exercises and do not be afraid to try healthy food. GET INTO THE RING. Kickboxing, mixed martial arts and boxing are fantastic for firming legs, arms and core. Jumping rope helps burn the same amount of calories as running for 30 minutes. In order to reduce the risk of injury, balance the weight on the balls of your feet while keeping your knees slightly bent. Your feet should barely clear the floor. Keep your arms relaxed and slightly bent and keep your upper body movements to a minimum. Instead of turning your arms in big circles, simply let your wrists swivel slightly. Humming the theme song from Rocky helps! READY... SET... SKINNY? Hold on sista. Rather than using the time leading up to your big day to shrink down to a toddler size, take this time to become a healthier you. Educate yourself on healthy weight loss or gain and fitness techniques. Meet with a nutritionist or a trainer who can offer you a solid regimen based on the five components of health and wellness: cardio exercise, dietary needs, muscular strength, muscular

endurance and stretching. YES, YOU NEED TO KEEP EATING. All that extra running around requires some serious fuel. Not eating enough can sabotage your weight loss efforts just as much is overeating. When you do not eat enough, your body begins its “storage mode” and holds onto all the calories you consume and turns them into fat. A starvation diet may drop the numbers on the scale, but you will not look good because the lack of nutrition will diminish your muscle mass while increasing your fat storage. DE-BLOAT SO YOU WON’T FLOAT DOWN THE AISLE. Here some foods you may want to avoid. Fake sweeteners are crazy hard to digest (example: aspartame). Fizzy sodas = bubbles = gas. Simple equation. Gum. Every time you chew you are swallowing air and puffing up your belly. Booze bloats the belly and the face. Beer will expand your waistline and recent studies show red wine contains unfermented yeast- a notorious bloater. Hold off the drinking until the toasts.

Dried fruits are basically concentrated bundles of fructose, which is the kind of sugar that causes retention and gas. According to a United Kingdom health study, cheddar and other super salty cheeses have more salt per ounce than potato chips. SodiYUM makes the body hold water. Got the “cheese disease”? Stick to varieties with lower salt content like low-sodium mozzarella, Swiss or goat cheese. Coffee. NOooooooo- Not the coffee! Caffeine is a gift and a curse. Used in moderation, it can curb your appetite and keep you focused. But when you have more than a cup a day, you run the risk of making your body very acidic. The more acidic your body becomes, the more fat it hangs on to. Might want to avoid that afternoon coffee shop drive-through. Granola bars. Hefty doses of carbohydrates and sugar make granola bars a less-thanhealthy choice. The over-thecountertop sugar levels found in supermarket granola bars spike your insulin level, causing you to crave even more sweeteners.


COMBAT STRESS ON YOUR TERMS. A bride makes an average of 177 decisions during her engagement according to a Brides. com survey. So it’s no wonder you’re feeling a little, hmm, flighty these days. While it may seem crazy to add another MUST to your to-do list, schedule some time for you, and help keep the Bridezilla away. Save time by working out at home. The gym is a great fitness vacation with great buddy support systems; however, sometimes dragging yourself to it can be extra tough when you’re already feeling overwhelmed. Go for a stroll. (A good time to practice for that threeminute march down the aisle.) If the weather is nice and the sun is out, go for some stretching on a mat in your backyard. Vitamin D

is good for everyone. Even moving around in your living room will give you a sense of accomplishment. The final tip to be Wedding Ready? Motivation. Motivation is a vital part of a bride’s eating and exercise plan. Before you can start your wedding health and wellness journey, identify methods that will not only keep you motivated throughout your planning but will establish healthy habits to continue even after your dream dress is cleaned and stored away. In conclusion, my father used to have a saying, “KISS it”... Keep It Short and Simple! The real ingredients for being Wedding Ready? Be excited! Be positive! Be motivated! Be consistent! Be-YOU-tiful!

EXPLORE THE COLLEC TION

S I M P LY S E R E N E S A L O N & S P A 512 N. Main St., Boerne, TX 78006 830.331.1103 simplysereneboerne.com


WEDDING QUIZ Which Disney Princess Should Be Your Maid Of Honor? My maid of honor needs to be:

Choose a Color Scheme:

1. 2. 3. 4.

1. 2. 3. 4.

Fun and spontaneous Cheerful and uplifting Calm and compassionate Honest and reliable

Purples Greens Blues Yellows

Ideal Bachelorette party would be:

Best part of the wedding:

1. In Vegas 2. At a five-star restaurant 3. Spending the weekend in a cabin or beach house 4. A night out in the city

1. 2. 3. 4.

Favorite wedding movie: 1. 2. 3. 4.

27 Dresses Bridesmaids Wedding Crashers My Best Friend’s Wedding

Open bar Food Dancing Vows Mostly 1’s: Your maid of honor is Rapunzel. She’s energetic, sweet and a little bit feisty! She won’t let anyone get in your way from having the best wedding ever. She’ll make sure you’re constantly having fun. Plus, she’ll throw you an epic bachelorette party. You’ll probably go somewhere crazy like Las Vegas or Monte Carlo. Get ready for a wild weekend full of debauchery with your closest gals. Mostly 2’s: Your maid of honor is Tiana. Your number one point person needs to be positive and cheerful as you plan your dream wedding. Tiana knows how to make a dream become a reality. She’s passionate, persistent and patient. Plus, she owns her own restaurant, which will definitely be advantageous when it comes to feeding your guests! Mostly 3’s: Your maid of honor is Jasmine. She’s compassionate, kind-hearted and sweet. She’ll always be there for you. Jasmine isn’t afraid to venture outside her palace walls to search for something more, and she won’t be afraid to venture outside the wedding venue to grab a last minute “something blue” if needed. You’ll love celebrating with Jasmine because she’s so fun and free-spirited. Mostly 4’s: Your maid of honor is Belle. You’re an anxious bride, so you need someone who you can totally rely on. Belle is organized and responsible and will handle everything from the flowers, to getting you dressed in time, and to making your guests feel welcome. She is also great under pressure. She’ll calm you down when you start to panic. When you’re nervous, she’ll remind you of the reason you’re getting married: True Love. It’s a tale as old as time.

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Calendars March 19th: 24th: 27th:

Vinyasa & Vino at Bending Branch Winery King William Bites Tour San Antonio Easter Brunch Buffet Messina Hof Winery & Resort The Oasis on Lake Travis

April 1st: 2nd: 8th:

Sunset Times

Sabinal Wild Hog Festival and Crafts Fair Crawfish Music Festival Rajun Cajun Golf and Crawfish Boil Fair Oaks Ranch Country Club

9th: Poteet Strawberry Festival Parade 15th: Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard at Whitewater Music Amphitheater Kevin Fowler at Oyster Bake

16th: Hill Country Wildflower Fest Crawfish Boil at Bootjack Bar

22nd: Austin Food & Wine Festival 23rd: King William Fair 29th: Texas SandFest 2016

MARCH 1ST 6:34 PM MARCH 15TH 7:43 PM APRIL 1ST APRIL 15TH

7:53 PM 8:01 PM

MAY 1ST MAY 15TH

8:11 PM 8:20 PM


Real Weddings

Josh and Leslie Orsak CATERING BON APPETIT CATERING HAIR AND MAKEUP SIMPLY SERENE SALON AND SPA FLORIST NONAS FLOWER BOX PHOTOGRAPHY ARDORE PHOTOGRAPHY

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SPRING 2016

VENUE ST. PETER’S CATHOLIC CHURCH BRANDED T RANCH PHOTOBOOTH BLUME HAUS PHOTO BOOTH PLANNER HILL COUNTRY PLANNING

hillcountryweddingsmagazine.com o


BAND BILLY MATA AND THE TEXAS TRADITION

HAIR AND MAKEUP PURE POSH SALON

CAKE CAKE ART

PHOTOGRAPHY MEGAN SMART PHOTOGRAPHY

CATERING DON STRANGE

VENUE HE E 1850 SETTLEMENT THE

FLORIST SAN ANTONIO FLOWER COMPANY

Justin & Caitlin Jaworoski congratulations to our hill country couples SPRING 2016

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Real Events The Cana Ballroom Open House & Fashion Show

VENDORS INCLUDED: ALL OCCASIONS OF TX CATERING

PENITENT MAN PRODUCTIONS

THE CANA BALLROOM

FOUR STAR DJ ENTERTAINMENT

CREATIONS CAKE

EVENTS BY JACKIE

HILL COUNTRY PLANNING

CHANDRA’S COLLECTION

SIMPLY SERENE SALON AND SPA

PHOTOGRAPHY

SMOKE IN THE HILLS BBQ

AL’S FORMAL WEAR

MEGAN SMART PHOTOGRAPHY

BEATITUDE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

BLUME HAUS FLORAL & PHOTOBOOTH

SOUTHERN UNIQUE EVENTS

BARTENDERS 4 YOU PERFECT EVENTS TEXAS WEDDING MINISTRIES CAKES & MORE BAKERY

Blume Haus

Cake Shop

HEAVENLY GOURMET ELEGANT LIMO & CHARTER SMOKE IN THE HILLS CATERING THE FLOWER SHOP THE BRA CHIC

KENDRA SCOTT

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Chandra’s Collection


BRIDAL FAIR

FASHION SHOW OPEN HOUSE SUCCESS Th Thank you to all our vendors and sponsors for yet another bridal affair and open house success!

T

We had a great turnout at the Happily Ever After Bridal Affair Fashion Show on February 28th hosted by Hill Country Planning Weddings & Events Magazine! We would not be able to share our ideas and vision without the collaborations and relationships we have developed with vendors and sponsors. The Cana Ballroom shared their magical setting with us for the open house and bridal affair. The venue is a stunning location for events, especially wedding receptions! We could not have asked for a better site for this event. Thank you to Béatitude Bridal Boutique for providing wedding gowns

and bridesmaid dresses. This company is dedicated to making every customer feel beautiful, unique and blessed on her special day! From stunning bridal gowns to the perfect pair of whimsical rhinestone high heels, Béatitude offers a remarkable selection of jaw dropping dresses and accessories! The perfect outfit, whether for your wedding day, prom, holiday party, or any other fabulous soiree, is waiting for you at Béatitude! Al’s Formal Wear provided men’s suits for our special event. Al’s Formal Wear currently has multiple stores located in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Colorado. Al’s wholesale division, Ascot Formal Wear, supplies formalwear shops across the United States with tuxedos.

Creations Cake

Simply Serene Salon and Spa, located on Main Street here in Boerne, transformed our models with bride-worthy hair and makeup. Simply Serene is a full-service salon, offering everything from pedicures and hairstyles to massages and facials. The Flower Shop, which also has its roots in Main Street, donated the elegant flower arrangements. Celebrate your personal style with unified arrangements for everyone in the wedding party, from the bridesmaids and groomsman to the bride and groom! Thank you again to all of our vendors for participating in the open house and we look forward to future collaborations.

Beatitude


Cake 101 Your cake can bee th Y the showpiece of the night, so make m su sure to design one that reflectss you and d you yyour significant other!

Y

Weddingg Cakes kes It’s time to thin thinkk ou outside the oven! Tradition is worth wo kkeeping in regards to having ingg some om sort sor of cake at your wedding; ng; however ho however, it’s time to get more creative. Other options include a naked

Music at Your Next Event cont’d from page 13 communication is a key ingredient to success. What type of equipment do you use? The equipment should be professional grade quality, not a home stereo system. Again, we all use tools to get the task at hand done. Just like buying a car, there are grades or levels to the equipment used in the DJ industry. Some prefer high-end equipment and some prefer equipment that is more affordable. Comfort and confidence with the equipment is important. Although it might be a bit technical, knowing if the gear that will be used is professional or not can make a major difference. Ask to see pictures of their equipment and lights. DJ’s are proud of their tools! Feel free to ask about what we use and what it looks like especially if it is going to be front and center on your wedding day.

cake, cupcake cake, candy bar, dessert table, or even passed chocolates.

hobbies such as fishing, hunting, or a favorite sports team.

Groom’s Cake Tradition has it that the bride’s cake is a white vanilla cake and the groom’s is always chocolate, which provides options for guests. Groom’s cakes are typically much smaller than the wedding cake and are normally decorated to reflect his

Cake Topper You used to see the groom and bride on the top of the wedding cake, but now you can choose flowers, heirlooms, and the like. Let your cake topper be a showstopper!

Where do you get your music? Technology is at our fingertips and access to music from services like iTunes and others is a click away in most situations. Again, just like any instrument, the music is part of our toolbox to get the job done. Some DJ’s use vinyl, some use CD’s and some use music files. There are a number of ways to get music as well as get versions on different type of media. Many promotional music companies supply radio stations and professional DJ’s with access to new music. This is one resource. There are record or music pools that distribute music as well. There are many options for us in addition to buying at the local store. Ask this question to get clarity if it is important.

ally, most professionals can account for the time needed to set up the necessary equipment. In my opinion, a DJ should set up, do a sound check and change well before your guests arrive. They should not be setting up when your guests are arriving. This information may be listed on your contract. If an early set up is needed or a narrow set up time is in play, share this with the DJ or company providing your service. Again, communication goes a long way. If these specifics are unknown, ask for clarity.

When do you set up? The set up time can vary due to the package and services requested. GenerSPRING 2016

What do you wear? A DJ should dress appropriately for the occasion. The DJ does not need to be flashy, but they should look professional and dress for the part and expected role. Generally, most professionals wear some type of tuxedo or suit and tie. Clarify attire and options if certain attire is desired. hillcountryweddingsmagazine.com

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Evember

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I am Angi Angie Ang Rodgers, the owner and head floral designer at Evember aand I am dedicated to ensuring that each one of myy clients clien receives the time and attention they deserve to see their vision come to life. With over a decade of experience, a eir visio vis true tru love lov oof flowers and a passion for exceeding expectations, I makee it to give my personal attention to each event i a priority p Evember mb iis blessed to be a part of. I am very fortunate to have a staff of talented, creative and wonderful people who help me continue to deliver beautiful floral designs to our clients. Each one of my staff members share my dedication to quality flowers, customer service and a love for what we do. In an effort to provide the best pricing at all times, Evember does not offer set packages but offers a complimentary consultation to all of our bride’s from which we create a customized proposal based on each brides’ individual style, budget and vision. I would love the opportunity to sit down with you in my office and hear about your wants and wishes for your floral décor for your wedding and help you develop the perfect floral designs for your special day. Your wedding planning journey should be a fun and stress-free experience and I am here to help you through every step of your wedding floral and décor design process. Whether your style is vintage, rustic, modern, elegant glamour or anything in between, I will work with your budget to design an EVent you will

Evember Floral and Event Design is committed to providing exceptional customer service and exquisite floral arrangements and décor elements to enhance your special day.


LAIMED REC MAKING HIS + HERS . . . YOURS

Heather Scott Huebner Interior REdesign

979.574.4727 // heather.s.huebner@gmail.com


family dinner night TAKE A PICNIC LUNCH THIS SPRING

PUBLISHER’S PUBLISHE HER’ R’SS N R’ NOTE: OTE OT E:

s ’ w a P

There is not muchh more important than timee with your family. Thatt iss why we have decided to do a recipe page. ecipee you Pick a favorite recipe would like to make akee and get your family together. ogether. Use this time cooking kingg to bond and create memories. Don’t forget to have fun and take pictures turess or even include a short hortt story on how much fun n you had together. Submit your recipes pess and photos to info@hillcounillcountryweddingsmagazine. azine. com for a chance to share with your Hill Country Weddings friends. s.

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honeymoon Myy spring M sp prriin ng h honeymoon oney on oneymoo eymo moon des destination stiin pick tthis th his is time tim ime around nd is the th U.S. V Virgin IIslands. Is sla l nd dss.. Y You ou d don’t on’t’t eeven on ven n ve need e d a passee p port for this exotic getaway, ladies aand an n gentlemen! With so much to sse see e and do, the beautiful Virgin Islands are the place to be for any adventurous couple. Island hoping is a necessity if you take on this honeymoon d de destination. est stin nat atio ioon. n. F From room SSt. t. Th t. Thoma Thomas aand an nd SSt. nd tt.. C Croix, rooixx, ttoo SSt. t. JJohn ooh hn aand n Wa W Water ate ate t r IIsland, sllan and, d, yyou ou aare ou rree ggoing ooiin ngg to ffeel to eeeel llike ike tthe ik hee u h ultimate lttim ltim imaatte bbeach eac ea bbabes! ba babe abees! s! T Taking akin ak ing ng tthe he fferry he eerrrryy ffrom rroom island isla is llaand land nd ttoo iisland slaan sl nd oonly nlly ttakes n akes ak e a ffew m mi minutes. inu nute tess..

Publisher’s Pick for a Spring Honeymoon

An A Another not oth her ggreat he reat re at adventu adventure ure ttoo ttake a while this Thomas oon n thi hiis vvacation acattion iiss tthe he SSt. t. Th National Park. also has an N Na ati tioonaall P a k. ar k. Th Thee iisland slland als Ritz Carlton with aamazing am amaz mazin aazzin ing R itz C it arlt ar ltoon nw ith it th full fu service details aamenities am meen niittie ies aand nd lluxurious nd uxxu u urrio ioou us d us eetta for the honeymooners. ho h on neeym moo oone ners ner rs. Booking will Bo B oookkin ing iin n aadvance dvaan dv nce w illl eensure nsu relatively ns inexpensive flights With iin neexxp peenssiv ive fl flig i ht ig hts and nd aaccommodations. nd ccom m Spring Break corner, flights will be Sp pri ring ring ng B reaakk aaround re roun un nd tthe he corn bbooking bo ook okiin ng qquickly uick ui icckklyy ssoo yyou o bbetter ou e te et t jump on it. Having lla layovers ayo yovers vvee s aand nd n d cconnecting oon nn nne neecttin ing ng fl fligh flights is never fun. C Ch Cheers hee e rss ttoo a ggreat r at re at eescape! scap sc pe! e!

By: Crystal Wiedenfeld

Enjoy!


Happily Ever After THE DENNIS FAMILY

4 Engaged: April 27, 2012 Married: March 23, 2013 Children: Brock Logan Dennis March 15, 2014 Walker Woods Dennis December 14, 2015

Photos by: Infinity and Beyond Photography

Photos by: Infinity and Beyond Photography


AFTER WEDDING TIPS Post Wedding and Honeymoon oneymooon T To-Do o-Do Do L Do List iisst willlll neverr gett itt d done. wi w one. on e Your honeymoon was justt w what hat you ou un needed eeede d d aafter fter ft ter yyour oou ur llong-anticon ngg-an anti ticcipated wedding day. Butt what wh haat do do you yoou u need neeed to to do do now now w tthat h t you ha your ourr honeymoon is over? ments, policies m me ntss, aand nd insurance nd ins nsu urran nce ce p o ic ol icies well. DEAL WITH THE DRE DRESS ESS as wel ellll.l. Iff you u plan on keepingg you your ou ur PRINT weddingg dress, you’lll nee need ed ttoo PR RIN INT T WEDDING WED EDDIIN NG G PHOPHO HOpreservee itt as soon as pos possible. ssi sibl blle. ble. TOS wedding Afterr all, itt was an investment! investm men ent! t! t! Oncee you u rreceive ecceeiive ivvee tthe he w he ed ingg ed eddi photos photograTo preservee thee dress profe profesfeesph hot otos ffrom otos rom yyour ro ourr p ou hoto tograsionally, contactt a gown preserpre rese re seer- pher, get ser geet them the hem he m printed prriintteed d aand n nd will vation specialist. Iff you u wou would ould ld d in a photo to aalbum. lbbum um. IItt w iilll bbee worth when simplyy likee to storee yourr gow gown wn wo w orrtth itt w hen yyou’re hen he ou’r’re aable ou bblle ttoo phoatt home, keep itt in a cool, dryy tthumb th humbb through thr hrou ough gh aalllll yyour o rp ou h ho tos first closett spacee inside. Bee suree thiss to os on yourr fi fir rstt aanniversary! nniv nn iver iv e sary er sary! IIff you right spacee is climatee controlled. yo ou don’tt do iitt rig i htt aaway ig wayy yyou wa ou THANK YOU Once you’re home, take an evening to go through all the gifts and cards with your new spouse. Be sure to keep a running list of who gave what, so that you can send a thank you note to each of them. If you have any duplicates, make returns or exchanges as soon as possible. CHANGE YOUR NAME Changing your name after the wedding is no simple task and requirements vary from state to state, so research before you start the process. Usually the first task is to change your name at the Social Security Administration. You’ll also need to update your driver’s license and passport, as well as the HR department at your workplace. Don’t forget to update your bank accounts, credit cards, utility accounts, rental agree-

TALK TALK K MONEY Now N ow w thatt you’ree home, iit’s t’t’ss time tim i e financial deto gett alll thee grittyy financia iall d etails haven’t ta ails worked d outt iff you u haven n’tt aalready. al ready. Talkk about abooutt alll your habits, debts, spendingg h de abits, budgetwhether ing, g and d wheth herr you’lll keep your credit yo ourr credi d t and d bbank ankk accounts joint. sseparate se epaara ratee oorr join nt.. Justt as you navigated na aviiga gated tteed tthe hee weddingg budget conversation co onv nve ver ersa ersa sati tio ion carefullyy with h your ffamily, amilily, ly you’ll you’lll need d to do the samee with h yourr new w spouse. You’ree a team m now!

RECONNECT Thee weddingg chaos is overr with re-so startt off ff yourr marriagee byy re connectingg with h thee friends and familyy members you u mayy have engage-neglected d duringg thee engage ment. Havee fun and d enjoyy your married d lifee with h friends!


Photo’s by: LimeLight Photography San Antonio


Everlasting E Love

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I think think thiss is i oour longest marriage saga aga yet! aga et! This Thi sstory is very exciting for me and rather close to home, for, you see, Evelyn and Frank Martin ee, Marily Marilyn llyn Ev are husband’s grandparents. After re myy husban us realizing li i they h will be celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary next year, I knew that I had to sit down with them and get their secret for a long and happy marriage! They were married on December 28, 1956. Frank grew up in the Texas Hill Country and was born right here in San Antonio. He was serving in our military in the U.S. Coast Guard when he met the girl who would become his lifelong partner. They met when Frank was transferred from a river boat, in his service days. Yes, like many other couples, they were introduced by a friend. Frank referred to her as just this “gorgeous thing” when he saw her for the first time. They fell in love right away, got married in Indiana and have been making memories ever since. Evelyn was originally from Kentucky. She was working for an insurance company when she was introduced to her soon-to-be husband Frank. She and Frank moved around a bit after falling in love and getting married. Evelyn stayed home with her children as a homemaker, which was a very important role in their family. When asked what she saw in Frank when meeting him for the first time, she quietly smirked and said, “He looked like Elvis Presley”, as she chuckled. After being away from home a few years and moving different places for

By: Crystal Wiedenfeld

work, Frank began to feel homesick. So he came home one day and told Evelyn to pack her bags! He was ready to go home to Texas. They came home and started a family, 2 boys and 2 girls, and have called Texas home again ever since. Now their family also includes 9 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. A nice big family with lots of love. Now that the couple are both retired, they spend their time in Fredericksburg with family and friends. Both of them enjoy going to their ranch where they can appreciate the countryside and spend time with their kids and grandkids. It’s always interesting to me to see what our couples say when asked their secret to a long-lasting marriage, because they are always pretty similar. This makes me think, they must know what they are talking about with these long track records. When we asked the couple for their secret, Frank with no hesitation replied, “You need God’s help!” His influence to follow the Lord came from his Grandmother, who planted the seed at a young age and he knew shortly after marriage that was the way he would lead his family. Evelyn followed her husband on the path of trusting in the Lord. And this is their great secret to the success of 59 years of marriage. They must be doing something right!

The Martin’s married DECEMBER 28, 1956 we have so much admiration for. Thank you again, Frank and Evelyn Martin. It was a great pleasure to do this interview! I am blessed to be a part of the family.

We are so grateful for all of our amazing couples’ words of wisdom. I’m sure our young families will appreciate all of this great advice from families SPRING 2016

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hillcountryweddingsmagazine.com Photo by: Benjamin Garrett Photography Location: CW Hill Country Ranch


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