St. Louis's Best Bridal - Fall & Winter 2018

S T. L O U I S ’

STLBESTBRIDAL.COM

FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 8

Amazing

Dresses Unique Looks

8 Love Stories Notable

How to Pick a

Venue

$3.95 | DISPLAY UNTIL JULY 31, 2018

Sweet!

Creative Cakes, Drinks, Flowers and More

selection

spacious

convenient

The op�ons you want for wedding packages, audio visual, up-ligh�ng, staging, decor & more

16,200 sq. �. Grand Ballroom & 6,025 sq. �. Junior Ballroom plus pre-func�on space

Full service from dinner to decor, a�ached to Embassy Suites Hotel & easily accessible to major highways

LET’S START PLANNING

636.669.3000

StCharlesConven�onCenter.com/weddings @StCharlesConven One Conven�on Center Plaza Saint Charles, Missouri 63303

LAUREN MUCKLER PHOTOGRAPHY

ANYTHING BUT ORDINARY. LUMENSTL.COM 314.615.2480 2201 LOCUST STREET SAINT LOUIS MISSOURI 63103 - A 23 CITY BLOCKS PROPERTY -

Wish BIG

&build the registry

of your dreams DILLARD’S BRIDAL REGISTRY:

Over 260 Stores in 29 States The Best Selection of Your Favorite Brand Names Couples can register for home items to personal items, including lingerie, cosmetics and fragrances.

Registered couples may receive bonus gifts from vendor partners, a free beauty makeover for the bride and more.

COMPLETE YOUR NEW HOME PROGRAM Save 20% on most regularprice items remaining on your registry after the wedding.

Visit www.dillards.com/registry for more details.

We think a Groom’s Fashion Try-On is only fitting.

TM

Schedule a free groom’s try on to determine the perfect style for your wedding.

That’s the Savvi difference.

10 Convenient locations 800.Tuxedo.4 SavviWedding.com

Voted Best Formalwear Specialist in St Louis

NOW OPEN! 340 South Main Street, Columbia, IL 62236 618-612-7206 mainstreetabbey.com

Conner Photography

wedding pack age

$189.99 Five Piece Suit Outfit *

Y OU k e e p T Hi S OU T F i T ! it is no t a rental

*includes Selected Suits, Marquis Shirts and Brand Q Ties. alterations not included

FRee

Groom’s WeddinG suit PackaGe

Groom receives free package when 5 or more packages are purchased at $189.99 and up.

Groom’s Free Package: EQUAL VALUE. ALTERNATIONS NOT INCLUDED!

Chesterfield Mall 636.536.2080

South County Mall 314.329.6308

www.suits4men.net

FALL & WINTER 2018

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7

When it comes to the details, relax.

We’ve got you covered.

Let our coordinator design your perfect event in our brand new clubhouse featuring floor to ceiling windows overlooking the beautiful golf course and waterfall.

Reduced pricing available for Fridays and Sundays

sendres@bogeyhillscc.com • www.bogeyhillscc.com • 636.946.6250 x 202 8

1120 Country Club Rd. St. Charles, Missouri 63303

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

VOTED BEST ST. LOUIS BRIDAL SALON!

1115 South Big Bend Boulevard just North of I-64/40

www.TheUltimateBride.com (314)961.9997 Call us for your appointment today!

FALL & WINTER 2018

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9

Treasure every moment of your special day!

Limousines | Party Buses | Guest Shuttles | Classic Cars 314.989.1500 | 866.272.1200 B e S t t r a n S P o r tat i o n . C o m SPeCiaLeventS@BeSttranSPortation.Com

W

Hermann Hill W

Chapel & Riverbluff Weddings

KATHLEEN MORTLAND PHOTOGRAPHY

JUMPING ROCKS PHOTOGRAPHY

BRIDE AND GROOM, CENTERPIECE AND CAKE PHOTOS BY ASHLEY FISHER

HermannMoWeddings.com • 314.800.3295

Taste & tour at the Hermann Wedding Trail— January, April & September

Book your Bridal Party in November 2018, December 2018, January 2019 or February 2019 and become a VIP Belleza Bride and receive our Winter Beauty Package for only $198! (Valued at $425!)

Belleza VIP BrIde Perks!

WInter Beauty Package!

Includes a Bridal gift for your wedding day, and 20% off ALL services and retail, including bareMinerals Makeup from the time you book your party until your wedding day! We can’t wait to help your bridal beauty shine through!

Includes Clip-in Hair Extensions for only $99 ($250 value) and Eyelash Extensions for only $99 ($175 value).

(May choose both offers or select one of your choice.)

Offer valid on newly booked weddings only, additional fees many apply, valid for in-stock extensions.

for more information call 636-300-3437 or email mybellezabride@gmail.com

The Franklin Room IN THE HISTORIC SOULARD NEIGHBORHOOD

Character • Elegance • Charm

Banquets at Affordable Prices VISIT US AT THEFRANKLINROOM.NET OR CALL TODAY TO SET UP AN APPOINTMENT: 341-664-7706

welcome

T HE M AG A ZINE

Congratulations You’re engaged. You have found your soul mate and life is full of promise. You are moving forward to a day when you translate that love into a lifetime together.

Wedding planning should be only a blip on the radar screen of happy times.

St. Louis’ Best Bridal helps avoid the apprehension that goes with arranging the

VO LU M E 1 6 - N U M B E R 2 FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 8

day of your dreams. This reliable resource simplifies planning.

St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine, Bridal Planner, stlouisbestbridal.com and its celebrations provide resources for you to create the wedding that symbolizes your unique relationship. You will find: Rebecca & Andrew Page 127

YOUR LOVE STORY

Calling all bridal couples who want to share their unique love story!

Share your wedding details with St. Louis’ Best Bridal where they might be featured in its magazine and website.

Contact Janice at jdenham@yourjournal.com.

✤ A timeline of what to do and when to do it ✤ Helpful budget guides ✤ Ideas to announce the wedding, save-the dates, invitations and say “thank you” ✤ Clues for finding your theme ✤ Clothing options for the bride, groom, mothers and others ✤ Rules and regulations to obtain a legal marriage license ✤ Familiar and new ideas for bouquets, plus flower choices ✤ Tempting food and drink ideas ✤ Magnificent wedding cakes and sweets ✤ Locations and extra fun for a reception ✤ Musical leads ✤ Guidelines for all-important photographs ✤ Honeymoon tips

Making lists is the easy part. Completing tasks is made simple with St. Louis’ Best Bridal and our “dream team” of top-notch clothiers, caterers, bakers, jewelers, florists, printers and venues in the St. Louis metro area.

St. Louis’ Best Bridal has everything you need!

Be sure to announce your engagement, and later your wedding, FREE online (stlouisbestbridal.com) and in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. It is our wedding gift

PUBLISHER Mary Ann Wagner EDITORIAL Editor Janice Denham DESIGN Art Director Robert Meyer ADVERTISING Account Executives Laura Dacus Jacqui Grable Vanessa Ortmann Sales Assistant Abby Reich EDITORIAL ASSISTANCE (314) 475-1204 ADVERTISING INQUIRIES (314) 475-1201 CONTACT US St. Louis’ Best Bridal 900 N. Tucker Blvd., 3rd Floor St. Louis, MO 63101 www.stlouisbestbridal.com BRIDAL MARKETPLACE Find local wedding professionals www.stlouisbestbridal.com

to you and yours!

On behalf of the entire team at St. Louis’ Best Bridal, we wish you the best wedding ever.

STAY CONNECTED STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM WATCH EMAILS, WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA FOR UPDATES ABOUT

Bridal Shows and Events, Bride’s and Groom’s Cake Dives, Contests, plus more fun and creative ideas.

Like Us: FACEBOOK.COM/STLOUISBESTBRIDAL Pin with Us: PINTEREST.COM/STLBESTBRIDAL Follow Us: TWITTER.COM/STLBESTBRIDAL

St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine is a semi-annual publication available at fine retailers, advertiser locations and at all St. Louis’ Best Bridal shows and events. All contents herein are protected by copyright laws (2004-2018) by St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of the contents, without prior written permission of the publisher, is strictly prohibited.

The magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a selfaddressed, stamped envelope. Statements and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect or represent those of this publication, its editor or its staff. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and integrity of the information contained in this publication, St. Louis’ Best Bridal disclaims all responsibility for omissions and printer’s errors.

A Lee Enterprises Publication.

14

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

108 Chesterfield Towne Ctr Chesterfield, MO 63305

636-778-3433 www.miagracebridal.com

Please visit www.miagracebridal.com to make an appointment and to see our beautiful collections.

Bridal Bridesmaids Mother of the Bride & Groom Flower Girls

T HE M AG A ZINE

on the cover

COVER MODEL

Dr. April Tyus-Myles Read how Otha, newcomer to St. Louis, merged personal and professional interests with April on a jazzy backdrop. See Page 23.

GOWN

Wedding Gallery Shoulder chains of Swarovski crystals provide a vintage touch to classic design of Wedding Gallery in its exclusive Made-in-USA Beau Monde Couture Collection. Clean-lined elegance of the mermaid gown in luxe double satin is made in the Greater St. Louis area. A sweetheart neckline shares jeweled embellishment with a low back, where crystal buttons follow down the skirt to a semi cathedral train. More Made-in-USA gowns start on page 58.

HAIR & MAKEUP

Belleza Bridal and Hair Salon Rachel Rosenquist A smoky eye in soft champagne emphasizes April’s fetching gaze. A simple pop of rosiness glamorizes her already-glowing checks and follows the trending classicism of shimmer, minus the glimmer, for healthy skin. “Scandal” is her lip color. The bride’s short pixie cut, a flattering and edgy classic, is enhanced for volume.

BOUQUET

Walter Knoll Florist Abundant garden specialties span seasons. Roses – creamy Quicksand and Sweet Escimo and orange bi-color Kahala – spark an arrangement with burgundy dahlias, stems of mini cymbidium orchids, eggplant-hued scabiosa, pink stock and leucadendron, and blue eryngium. Warm-white hanging amaranthus, pheasant feathers and air plants keep the bouquet moving. Seeded and silver dollar eucalyptus round out the greens.

16

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

2300 Edwards St. | St. Louis, MO 63110 314.772.6003 | www.roseofthehill.com

HOST YOUR EVENT “ON THE HILL” • Weddings (Up to 350) • Rehearsal Dinners

• Bridal Showers • Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties

5201 Southwest Ave. | St. Louis, MO 63199 314.772.4454 | www.favazzas.com

• Anniversary Parties • Baby Showers

OUR MAGAZINE

inside

Contents ON THE COVER 20 8 Love Stories

LOVE STORIES 23 FOCUSED: April & Otha

45

Grace trimmed in beauty

33

Bouquet bliss

69

Sweet art

87

Crafty cocktails

109

Fitting reception sites

127

73

90

106

112

Local couples walk together with commitment.

Romance charms best-day-of-my-life gowns.

Fresh take on garden whimsy.

Cake success from one imaginative baker.

Sugary fluff refreshes season’s spirited flavors.

Colin Cowie guides ways to match up stunning venue.

FEATURES 54 Jeweled colors, shiny glow

56

62

64

94

97

133

148

150

153

Enriched colors reflect nature’s warmth.

Lush layers

66

83

132

18

141

157

Even a jazz-loving M.D. falls for dimples.

FLEXIBLE: Cassie & Alan

St. Louis warmly welcomes out-of-towners for new year.

BALANCED: Daniel & Miguel

Couple tunes up pan-American traditions.

DRAMATIC: Nick & Joe

Musical merger stars theater lovers.

SETTLED: Victoria & Joshua

Roush appears as third wedding partner.

COLORFUL: Rebecca & Andrew

Marriage stroll follows yellow brick road.

SUPER-CHARGED: Stephanie & Nathan

Nature and motorcycles grab wedding themes.

PURPOSEFUL: Tayler & Jeff

Gritty occasion sprouts serious side with fun.

Glamorous glow

ESSENTIALS 26 First draft: ‘who’s who’

Beauty accents

29

Dive into sweet rewards

36

Culinary quest

38

Men upload style

40

Winery welcome

130

Elegant fashion fits Midwestern tastes.

Pampering lightens stress, renews face and body.

Soft colors subdue drama in top-level starts.

Newlyweds-to-be keep goggled eyes on prize.

Roll out food with colorful ingredients and flavors.

Color menswear in blue, gray, black or awesome For rustic getaway wedding, winery is close to home.

Dreams of home

Registry forms wish list for bride and groom.

Treasures to wear & share

Show value of love and friendship to best fans.

FOOD, FASHION, FLOWERS 42 Figure angles determine fit

Gown shapes up to enhance look, provide comfort.

138

144

146

Perfect petals

160

Flowers speak by season, style, texture and tone.

Gentlemen, meet your tuxedo

Follow plan for step-by-step confidence.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Time line forecasts success

Day-by-day plan keeps sight of ultimate goal.

Who pays the bills

5 priorities help set budget and determine who pays.

Sign on the dotted line

Bride + groom + license = legal marriage.

Money matters

Budget ceiling should balance expenses at 100 percent.

Celebrate with St. Louis’ Best Bridal

Party spirit blankets events with creativity alongside fun.

PARTY PLANS 104 Pace the party

Lift the beauty bar

Sprinkle and sparkle the glow with accessories.

Wedding party intended to form permanent team.

Plan the fun and toast the timekeepers.

Shall we dance?

Best music guides, doesn’t step on toes.

Video tags along on lively day

Merge party-pleasing scenes in sight with those hidden.

Ask a photographer

Envision the “I do” with photo for total recall.

Blazing farewell

Match a memorable entrance with a dramatic getaway.

FALL & WINTER 2018

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19

ON T HE COV E R

togetherness

s e i r o t s e Lov

23

157

69 141 This page, clockwise, starting bottom left, Danielle and Miguel merged their future in a wedding dream-come-true as they combined their PanAmerican cultures of the United States and Mexico. | Tayler and Jeff found their hearts, softened by kids and family, entwined in an elegant design of tradition which included tasty cookies brought by relatives from Illinois. | April and Otha gathered an appreciation for jazz, medical careers and each other into their St. Louis wedding. | Stephanie and Nathan planned their day of commitment with natural greens and motorcycles in their sights and her recently ill father recovering to walk her down the aisle.

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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

87 109 33 127 This page, clockwise, from bottom left, Cassie and Alan greeted 2018 as newlyweds in St. Louis, with a warm celebration that included their dog on a very wintry day. | Tori and Josh set a wedding date so they could embark as newlyweds on a free honeymoon trip. | Nick and Joe showcased their theatrical spirit by seating guests at tables named for musicals and starred in their own production of “The Wedding.” | Rebecca and Andrew paved their individual Yellow Brick Road for a wedding day painted in bight “Over the Rainbow” colors.

FALL & WINTER 2018

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L OV E S TORY

April & Otha MARCH 25, 2018

‘Conversation was intelligent. … Plus, I liked his dimples.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE STREET PHOTO & VIDEO

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23

‘I am so glad we took the time to become friends first.’

The two doctors didn’t consider meeting in

find her – an intelligent, accomplished, smiling

bride’s calm demeanor was threatened before the

August of 2013 an emergency, but follow-up

woman. I realized she was working her magic

ceremony. One of her twin nephews, planned as

evaluations developed a healthy prognosis.

on me. We could spend hours talking.” Noting

ring and sign bearers, jumped Superman-style off

At a happy hour for professionals, pediatri-

the significance, Otha added, “I even passed

a chair, so a fellow pediatrician checked the goose

cian April Tyus came with her sister, a lawyer.

the background check of her younger, but

egg-sized bump on the boy’s head.

Otha Myles still sought a social niche after moving

protective, sister.”

Two hundred guests watched the bride

from Baltimore, Md., to St. Louis seven months

April’s timeline for deciding their future was

and her father come down the aisle. Otha’s

earlier to be close to a sick relative. April almost

unnecessary. “She changed my heart after about

fraternity brother, an opera singer, sang the

left before being introduced. He was surprised

two years. I realized she wouldn’t be around

Lord’s Prayer and “Ave Maria.” As a sign of

when her follow-up email offered a local tour of

forever unless I could show something about a

unity, the couple braided strands into a single

things he might like to do.

serious relationship, so we started talking about

rope. When they exchanged vows, the bride

an engagement,” Otha said.

committed to becoming a family with Otha

“We found a mutual interest in jazz, among the early things,” April recalled. “We met first

On Jan. 1, 2017, he planned a surprise

and his daughters. “Not a dry eye remained,”

at 360 St. Louis. We discovered after our first

birthday party for her without telling guests its

Otha said, “when April gave them a special gift

date that we actually lived on the same street

true intent. His proposal surprised April and

and had special words for them.”

in Chesterfield. He had a good personality for

another 40 guests.

talking. Conversation was intelligent and it came naturally. Plus, I liked his dimples.”

Pinpointing a wedding date, April’s priority of “not snowing” helped focus on his daughters’ school spring breaks for setting a ceremony at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 25, 2018.

The four also lit a single candle. The couple received congratulations at a lobby reception with cupcakes and punch.

The wedding party traveled for photos to the Grand Basin of Forest Park, Washington

“We wanted the ceremony to reflect the whole

University and The Gateway Arch, where the

fabric of our being from high school on to today,”

newlyweds enjoyed the chilly day with a private

the groom said. Their search for a church to satisfy

ride in a white horse-drawn carriage.

her reserved upbringing in Ferguson, yet fulfill

The couple designed a logo and projected it

seeds planted by his family in Missouri’s Boot Heel

first at the church. At the reception, also held at

coming to Ferguson’s Greater Grace Church. The

the Charles F. Knight Executive Center, it showed

pastor prepared them to become a blended family.

at a staircase and behind them at their sweetheart

Inspiration and fun came at bridal shows,

table-for-two. After a dinner buffet, they served

which they attended together. “Eggplant” purple,

a tiered cake topped with “Dr ♥ Dr Myles” and

champagne and antique gold fashioned colors.

ice cream.

Two “best men” among three bridesmaids

A planner eased wedding-day stress so they

and three groomsmen included the doctor who

could celebrate with guests from across the United

introduced them. They negotiated use of gold and

States – California to Baltimore, Delaware,

black, colors of Otha’s beloved Alpha Phi Alpha

Washington, D.C., Atlanta and Texas.

fraternity, as complements atop a groom’s cake

“I am so glad we took the time to become

and on her garter. Otha preferred his tie and vest

friends first and really like each other before our

in “champagne” over purple, the color of a rival

marriage,” Otha said. They value each other’s

Otha, whose specialty is infectious disease,

fraternity. Still, the main color draped gowns,

opinion. He makes daytime calls to his bride,

still looked for meaning to the move. His ill

flooded flowers and uplit reception decor. His

“just to tell her I miss her. I look forward to us

brother died just a week after he settled with his

niece wore white as flower girl.

evolving in our careers together.”

A groomsman rescued the nervous groom,

They followed advice to continue dating. The

who forgot to shave, with a razor before the

“travel buddies” honeymooned in Aruba with

“April was God’s blessing to me and I had

couple’s “first look” at the Charles F. Knight

85-degree days and dinner on the beach at sunset.

to come all the way from the East Coast to

Executive Center at Washington University. The

It rained all week in St. Louis.

daughters, Haley and Lemella. By October, he and April were dating exclusively.

E S SE N T I A L S

the team

The wedding party HONOR THOSE WHO LOVE AND CARE ABOUT YOU. On your wedding day, people who surround you should be those you care about and trust. Bridal attendants and

per bridesmaid keeps symmetry at the altar and in photos, but

groomsmen serve this joyful purpose, so you and your spouse

there is no rule. Be certain that attendants feel comfortable

should invite only close relatives, longtime friends and faithful

with your choices for processional and pairings throughout

supporters.

the day.

In memory and photograph, these individuals always will

A small group of guests at a destination wedding may

stand beside you on this day of promise. Ask people with

determine who will attend the bride and groom simply

whom you want to spend time – not only on that singular day

because they think enough of you to make a distant trip to

but in your future. A thoughtful bride and groom consider

be at your side. If the officiant agrees, an attendant may be

options and assets for eligible attendants before they invite

someone close of the opposite sex.

them to be part of their wedding.

Conventional wisdom lines up one to three attendants

26

Most weddings range from four to seven. One groomsman

Groomsmen or other men, as ushers, help seat family and friends, with specific ones honored to seat mothers of the

at a small, intimate wedding. A large, lavish or more formal

bride and groom. A young family or close-to-family member

affair likely will have more – up to 12 for each of you,

may be flower girl, ring bearer or train bearer. “Juniors” fall in

provided they fit the purpose, site, camera lens and budget.

age between young child and bridesmaid/groomsman.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Maid or matron of honor Whether already down the aisle (matron) or not (maid), an honor attendant should be someone dear to the bride’s heart and on whom she can depend personally – perhaps a sister or a best friend – while planning and, just as importantly, on the wedding day.

Bridesmaids/groomsmen A sister, brother, other family member or close friend of either bride or groom usually becomes a bridesmaid, groomsman or usher. They help with wedding errands.

Bridesmaids (sometimes groomsmen, too) throw a bridal shower. All are key guests at pre-wedding events.

Best man The best man should be someone the groom trusts to help with his wedding details and who also will provide moral support during this wonderful, stressful time of his life. Often, the groom asks a brother, close relative or best friend to stand beside him and, literally, get him to the church on time.

Flower girls One or two flower girls, age 4 to 8, walk down the aisle alone or with a ring bearer. A shy flower girl may be paired with a more confident child. Family choice - or

Somewhing olf.

Somewhing new. Somewhing borrowed.

E Somewhing Zoo . E Make your special day even more memorable.

Book your wedding festivities, ceremony and reception at the Saint Louis Zoo. You can choose from four exclusive venues that offer not only romance,

the officiant’s guidelines - may determine if

but excitement as well—The Living World, Lakeside Cafe,

a parent makes an entrance with his or her

River Camp and the Event Tent. Then let our staff

infant or very young child. As they walk down the aisle before the bride, flower girls may hold a ball of flowers on a ribbon,

of professionals help plan every detail, from catering to exquisite floral arrangements to animal greeters—

a basket of rose petals to scatter, or baby

and even private tours of many of the Zoo’s

roses to pass to guests.

90 acres of habitats. For more information,

Ring bearer The ring bearer – a young boy of age 4

call 314-646-4855 or visit stlzoo.org to complete an online rental inquiry form.

or 5 – walks down the aisle alone or with the flower girl(s). He carries a decorative pillow or box to which real or artificial rings are attached with ribbon. To avoid misplacement, the best man may securely hold real ones.

Photography by Heather Roth

FALL & WINTER 2018

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27

Just anticipate the moment.

We’ll handle the details.

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch provides the perfect setting for any wedding occasion: from dynamic grand ballrooms and the inviting Park View room to the memorable rooftop Gateway Ballroom and terrace overlooking the Gateway Arch.

For more information, call 314 342 4655 or visit hyattregencystlouis.com.

HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS AT THE ARCH 315 Chestnut Street St. Louis, Missouri, USA, 63102

The trademarks HYATT®, Hyatt Regency® and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. ©2018 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved. Image by Kelly Park Photography.

countdown

ESSENTIALS

Wedding

PLANNING You’ve found the love of your life and the two of you are getting married!

Now what?

Your wedding is one of the most complex events you, your spouse-to-be and your families may ever orchestrate. A solid plan moves the process forward so the anticipation is pleasant. This time line and checklist help organize details from a chaotic start into the happiest celebration of your lives.

9-12 MONTHS

 Choose members of the wedding party  Research legal requirements for marriage license in location where you will wed and add immediately

 Select a date and time for the wedding

to personal calendars

 Arrange for parents to get together, perhaps at an engagement party or informally over dinner  Begin to compile guest list  Discuss budget with everyone who may contribute financially; establish priorities, including honeymoon

ESSENTIALS

countdown

 Interview potential wedding planners  Select officiant and visit with him or her to discuss wedding preparation

Wedding

and procedures

PLANNING You’ve found the love of your life and the two of you are getting married!

Now what?

Your wedding is one of the most complex events you, your spouse-to-be and your families may ever orchestrate. A solid plan moves the process forward so the anticipation is pleasant. This time line and checklist help organize details from a chaotic start into the happiest celebration of your lives.

9-12 MONTHS

 Choose members of the wedding

 Narrow down ceremony and

party  Research legal requirements for marriage license in location where you will wed and add immediately

 Select a date and time for the wedding

 Select catering service, if not

to personal calendars

 Arrange for parents to get together, perhaps at an engagement party or

provided by the reception site

reception sites and book them

informally over dinner  Begin to compile guest list  Discuss budget with everyone who may contribute financially; establish priorities, including honeymoon  Interview potential wedding planners  Select officiant and visit with him or

 Visit www.stlouisbestbridal.com

(a popular location may book 18

to announce – for free – your

months in advance or only open

engagement online and in the local

reservations 12 months prior to date)

her to discuss wedding preparation and procedures  Select catering service, if not provided by the reception site  Visit www.stlouisbestbridal.com to announce – for free – your engagement online and in the local St. Louis Post-Dispatch

 Narrow down ceremony and reception sites and book them (a popular location may book 18 months in advance or only open reservations 12 months prior to date)  Close in on style, theme and colors FALL & WINTER 2018

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

Download the timeline to track your progress.

StLouisBestBridal.com  Planning Tools

St. Louis Post-Dispatch

 Close in on style, theme and colors

FALL & WINTER 2018

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29

6-9

MONTHS

 Attend pre-wedding counseling as required or desired

 Plan menus for rehearsal dinner

 Arrange accommodations for

 Have final fitting of wedding gown,

 Select and order formal wear for

 Book ceremony musicians and reception band or DJ  Reserve party rental equipment

engraving or check for accuracy

 Reserve location of rehearsal dinner out-of-town guests

 Book photographer and videographer

 Pick up wedding rings; arrange for

men; schedule fittings  Complete registry  Reserve wedding-day transporta-

(tables, chairs, tents, lighting)

tion as needed: to the church, from

 Shop for and order bridal gown and

church to reception, from recep-

accessories

tion to after-party or where you will spend your wedding night  Meet with travel agent to plan honeymoon and make reservations  Secure travel documentation; renew/get passports

make alteration appointment

 Have run-through of bridal hair (with headpiece, if applicable) and makeup; experiment now, not later  Check that bridesmaids have arranged fittings for their gowns, groomsmen for tuxedos and shoes  Draw up seating plan for ceremony and reception  Submit song lists to ceremony musician and reception band or DJ  Finalize plans with every wedding vendor, including photographer

2-4

MONTHS  Select florist

 Finish addressing invitations

 Select bridesmaids’ dresses

 Meet with caterer to discuss plans

 Close in on final guest list, addresses

for food at the reception

 Arrange wedding cake tastings, then

 Complete honeymoon plans

order a favorite

 If not already noted on calendars, fill

 Research honeymoon spots and

in time for securing marriage license

select travel agent

(See ‘Sign on the Dotted Line’)

 Mail save-the-date cards, especially

 Set time for any bridal photography

for destination or holiday wedding

beyond the wedding day

 Make master to-do list; keep copies

 Select gifts for parents, attendants and each other  Mail invitations six weeks before wedding, earlier if destination wedding or if many travel; design, test-drive map for out-of-towners

only with those who need to know

 Decide on insurance policies and

 Consider items for registry

name-change documents  Write and order programs for

4-6

ceremony  Attend bridal shower(s)

MONTHS

2-4

 Select and order wedding rings  Set appointments with hairstylist/

WEEKS

makeup consultant for rehearsal and wedding day  Select gifts for attendants  Choose favors and guest book  Complete cake order, if necessary  Book room for wedding night

 Final gown alteration appointment; bring along maid of honor to learn to bustle it  Prepare information to announce wedding after the big day at

 Order wedding invitations, thankyou notes and personal stationery (earlier is better)

30

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

4-8

WEEKS

www.stlouisbestbridal.com  Write vows, if desired; write toasts  Review guest list and provide caterer with final count

 Finalize seating arrangements  Finish place cards for reception  Provide rehearsal and wedding-day schedules to the wedding party  Arrange gift transport from reception  Bride has last pre-wedding haircut and coloring  Be certain names on photo IDs and/ or passports match honeymoon plane tickets/reservations  Start packing for honeymoon, listing contents as you add items to suitcase  Gather items for emergency kit  Everyone: Break in shoes

1

WEEK  Send out all final payments possible, place fees still due in envelopes  Delegate responsibilities for the wedding day to reliable individuals  Finalize rehearsal and rehearsal dinner; confirm attendance numbers  Double-check details with vendors  Confirm honeymoon details and finish packing  Groom: Have hair trimmed  Attend any remaining bachelor/ bachelorette party (hold earlier, if possible)  Pass along any challenges that pop up at the last minute to those who can resolve them

YOUR BIG DAY  Eat a healthy breakfast and drink lots of water to avoid dehydration from excitement.  Try to take at least a little walk,

1-2 DAYS

play music or meditate to reduce stress.  Double-check that you have all items you need, with backups just in case.

 Get massage, manicure, pedicure;

 Give groom’s wedding band to

purchase and pack extra nail polish

maid of honor and bride’s ring

in shade you are using for possible

to best man.

touch-up  Pick up remaining rental attire  Attend rehearsal and review all details with participants  Enjoy rehearsal dinner, greet family

 Write down any last-minute contingency plans that occur to you.  Have hair and makeup done according to early plan.

and friends; present wedding party

 Allow extra time to get dressed.

and parents with thank-you gifts

 Make certain the best man

 Get a good night’s sleep

and maid of honor sign the marriage license.

 Allow extra time for the unexpected  Follow schedule written last month.  Allow 50 percent more time for travel.  Take advantage of snacks and bottled water in the dressing area.  Greet guests by name, be gracious and grateful.  Smile, remain calm and do not let anything that goes differently than expected interfere with your joy  Cherish each moment of this special day with your new life partner and those who gather to celebrate with you.  If you leave early, say goodbye to parents and grandparents, .

FALL & WINTER 2018

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31

314.993.1100 | 1335 South Lindbergh Boulevard | St. Louis, Missouri | 63131 www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com

L OV E S TORY

Cassie & Alan DECEMBER 31, 2017

‘Cassie is never negative. She always lifts people up.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS

FALL & WINTER 2018

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

33

‘You either grow together or you grow apart.’

Union Station in St. Louis was more a destina-

became her second family. “Alan worked nights,

outside, but I couldn’t feel how cold it was when

tion than a compromise for Cassie Murphy and

so we pretty much high-fived as I walked out and

I walked around that warning track,” Alan said

Alan Spencer’s wedding.

he walked in,” she said.

of the experience with his brother, also a huge Cardinals’ fan, and remaining “big troopers.”

Luckily, when Chicagoan Cassie started

With the house near completion in 2016,

college at the University of Arkansas in 2010,

Alan made their future union official as her family

They exchanged vows the second time in the

her dad was a White Sox fan, because Alan, then

visited Fayetteville’s annual Lights of the Ozarks.

terminal midway in front of an arch borrowed

a sophomore, rooted – loudly – for the St. Louis

“In the downtown square, there are impres-

from new local friends met while tailgating at a

Cardinals. They met at a fraternity rush event, but

sive Christmas lights, horse and carriage rides, a lit

Mizzou-Arkansas game. Mothers lit a unity candle

came to know each other better when they became

tree and a little bench area. She always wanted her

used by Cassie’s parents 30 years earlier. Sooie, the

isolated in his frat house during Snowpocalypse

family on hand for her engagement,” Alan said.

couple’s retrieved pit bull-corgi-dalmatian mutt,

When her family gathered for an annual

was flower girl. Cassie and her dad savored a view

in Fayetteville.

“Both of us have big personalities, so we

holiday photo, he shuttled her aside to ask the big

of the Grand Hall before guests entered after

are both pretty bubbly and goofy and that drew

question. After that, the newly engaged groom-

cocktails in the Grand Staircase and Aquarium

each other,” Cassie said. It was an easy match

to-be and surprised bride-to-be joined a family

area. Champagne corks numbered tables and

for Alan, too. “I felt like I knew her even when

party in their honor at his parents’ home.

guests signed a photo of the couple’s dogs.

we first met,” he said.

“We had it in our heads that St. Louis would

The bride exchanged jeweled heels worn

be in the middle for a New Year’s Eve wedding,”

on her entry on the Grand Hall staircase for

said Cassie, fifth-grade teacher in the school her

cozy, fluffy slippers. They cut a glittery cake in

husband attended. Alan is a truck dispatcher for

Alan’s favorite flavor, Funfetti. Multiple sweets

Tyson Foods. While planning at Union Station,

included St. Louis doughnuts and pastries.

they grew dreams seeded before they met.

White Castle burgers and Jack in the Box tacos

“My mom and I never think small,” Cassie

were a 10 p.m. snack. Hats, noisemakers and

said. “Every crazy idea I had she never shut

props glamorized New Year’s Eve pictures with

down. Once it got more real, we pretty much

a sequined background.

made everything.

Cassie’s parents labeled and skirted flutes with

The couple exchanged intimate vows on

tulle for midnight champagne toasts during a

Dec. 23 in a small chapel of Cassie’s home parish

light show and fireworks on the ceiling. Alan

in Oak Forest, Ill. Her grandmother attended

liked Irish touches. A bagpiper met them after

before she passed away a month later. The Rev.

they were announced as husband and wife and

Joe Noonan officiated at both sets of vows.

they sang an Irish “Auld Lang Syne” at midnight.

The couple arrived Thursday in record-

Planes, trains and automobiles brought

breaking cold St. Louis temperatures for “a cool

350 guests from 17 states. “It meant so much

five days of celebrating.”

to us on, historically, the coldest weekend of

The bride-to-be added 21 close friends to five

winter,” Alan said.

Young love rolled along as each worked and

sisters as attendants. Alan matched 13 grooms-

The newlyweds savored memories big and

studied. Then came a major blip. Just after Cassie

men 2-to-1 to bridesmaids in a blend of both

small. Cassie pictured Alan in a tuxedo at the

graduated, Alan was diagnosed with cancer. She

lives. Winter Wonderland details, glittering in

altar. “I could see every person, too, who helped

embarked on a master’s degree in education and

navy and silver, arrived on cue in a dozen cars.

us get there that day.” The groom’s perspective

Alan’s chemo routine ebbed their joy as they

“I knew Cassie always wanted one big central

broadened to her entry on the staircase with new

supported each other. “You either grow together

place under the same roof in the same room at

life segments awaiting them in the future. “Cassie

or you grow apart,” Cassie said. “After that, we

the same time just for one night,” Alan said.

is never negative. She always lifts people up.”

While women prepared at the Union Station

Cassie anticipated new adventures with

Amid Alan’s recovery, they started to build a

Hotel, the dapper-looking men walked onto the

her husband, who plans a surprise destination

house. They moved in with his parents and they

field at Busch Stadium. “It was actually 4 degrees

honeymoon for them in June.

realized we could get through a lot.”

E S SE N T I A L S

finances

?

Wi l l e in our cane an pet b e? expens Who e n co trols th s? rd credit ca

Will all friends on our guest list overflow the venue - or the budget?

?

What foods fits our plan?

What dream could we possibly give up?

Can we invite all the cousins as attendants?

Wh re c e p t i o a t i s c o nv e n s i t e looks d nient and i f fe r e n t ?

Organize to remain calm SET PRIORITIES, DECIDE WHO PAYS, LIST TRANSACTIONS

The process is not magical and heavenly

thoughtful consideration in a discussion

intervention should not be expected. From

between a couple and all parents or others who

start to finish, organization is imperative. A

will contribute payment. Compromise and

4

few management priorities help keep wedding

imaginative ideas save the day and progress

planning in check and on schedule.

toward an event everyone remembers with joy

and any other person responsible for making

and heartfelt fondness. Couples, particularly

1

Take time to think

part or all their wedding expenses. Parents may

Becoming married takes an “I do.”

play a less traditional role by paying for an

No rule about who pays for what is set in

item like flowers or offering a specific amount

stone. See our traditional lists on the next page

toward a single or total bill.

to see where your wedding may adapt.

3

2 36

older brides and grooms, often pay a major

➝

Sit down and decide Before setting plans in motion, decide

Make a spreadsheet List every item as it is decided. Organize

a spreadsheet to your taste. Color-code,

List every detail Not knowing what is due and when a bill

should be paid disorganizes bride and groom payments. Enter each item. Note how it is purchased ‒ by check, credit or cash. Was it paid online? List what it buys. Extra columns show how much is due, by when and how you expect to pay. Immediately list an expense when incurred and paid even in part, filling in appropriate columns with details.

5

Save all receipts Print out every receipt for the wedding

and designate a large envelope to hold them.

who can pay for what. Whether a couple is

divide, title it in any way that makes sense

Knowing where each nickel and dime goes

established or starting out, financial priori-

to you. Make a commitment to tracking

lets you envision the path your budget should

ties must be considered as the vision of this

expenses as you go. Thus, even if paperwork

follow. Receipts avoid overlooked minor

best-ever wedding unfolds. For smooth

is misplaced, your budget will stay up-to-the-

expenses. Even a few dollars misplaced here

planning, there should be give-and-take plus

minute electronically.

and there overruns a careful budget.

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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Wedding ring and gift for groom, gifts for bridesmaids ✤

Ceremony site, music, rented equipment such as arch and carpet ✤

Save-the-dates, invitations, programs, thank-you notes ✤

Bouquets for bridesmaids, corsages for grandmothers, flowers for ceremony and reception ✤

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Accommodations for special out-of-town relatives/guests ✤

THE GROOM AND HIS FAMILY ✤

Rehearsal dinner

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Marriage license and officiant fee

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Clothing for groom and his family

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Wedding ring and gift for bride

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Gifts for groomsmen/ushers

Bride’s bouquet, mothers’ corsages, boutonnieres for groom, groomsmen, ushers and dads ✤

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37

E S SE N T I A L S

marriage license

LOC ATION TO CALL In Missouri FRANKLIN COUNTY 636-583-6367 Union JEFFERSON COUNTY 636-797-5414 Hillsboro LINCOLN COUNTY 636-528-0325 Troy ST. CHARLES COUNTY 636-949-7506 St. Charles ST. LOUIS CITY 314-622-3257 or 622-4527 St. Louis ST. LOUIS COUNTY 314-615-7180 Clayton WARREN COUNTY 636-456-9800 Warrenton

In Illinois MADISON COUNTY 618-692-6290 Edwardsville ST. CLAIR COUNTY 618-277-6600, ext. 2370 Belleville MONROE COUNTY 618-939-8681, ext. 302 Waterloo

Sign on

The dotted line LEGAL REQUIREMENTS TOP ‘TO-DO’ LIST. Before two people head to the ceremony and run off into matrimonial bliss, they must apply for a marriage license. A legitimate officiant will not marry a couple without one in hand. Rules vary between states, as marriage is considered a civil contract between a state and two people initiating it.

Where a wedding is performed, not where the couple lives, determines where a license should be secured. If the ceremony destination is not Missouri or Illinois, it is easy to consult the website www.usmarriagelaws.com for any other state.

Marriage license requirements change often by state, even between counties, so it is MOST important to verify ALL information with the local marriage license office or county clerk where you will be married before

passport, state ID or driver’s license, which

making wedding or travel plans. Each county

lists date of birth. Unless the Social Security

also directs its own schedule for a courthouse

number is on the ID, a Social Security card is

marriage by a judge.

also required in Missouri. A person without a Social Security number must sign a form of

Getting Married IN THE SHOW-ME STATE

but only in Missouri. The ceremony must take

parties be single and not blood-related. Recently

place within 30 days of the license being issued.

enacted legislation raised the minimum age to

If an individual is divorced, a final decree must

16 for a marriage license to be issued and that

be at least 30 days before application, although

16- and 17-year-olds receive parental permis-

some counties allow variations.

sion to be married. It also bars a person 21 or

JERSEY COUNTY 618-498-5571, ext. 112 Jerseyville

older from marrying anyone 17 or younger.

CLINTON COUNTY 618-594-6620 Carlyle

of deeds office in any Missouri county or the

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

The marriage license is valid in any county,

The state of Missouri requires that both

Before the ceremony, even on the same day, a couple must appear together at the recorder city of St. Louis. No blood tests are required.

Each must show a valid form of government-issued identification, such as a current

38

verification.

A cash-only, non-refundable charge of about $50 must be paid with the application. For an extra fee, a certified certificate may be issued as proof of marriage or as a keepsake.

Nuptials IN THE LAND OF LINCOLN Getting married in Illinois differs on some

details. A couple still needs to be single, not related and at least 18 years old. Sixteenand 17-year-olds must have parental consent. No one under the age of 16 may be married.

WHO CAN OFFICIATE

Register NEW NAMES

Missouri and Illinois also differ in criteria for an officiant to fulfill these duties.

According to the law, marriage may be performed in Missouri by any clergyman, active

Like its neighbor to the west, Illinois

or retired; a judge, municipal judge; a religious

requires a valid form of identification and

society, institution or organization of which

proof of age for both parties, who must be

either party is a member. Paperwork must be

present at the time of application – but only

returned within 15 days to the recorder issuing

in the county where they will be married.

it. In Illinois, an officiant may be an ordained

Before marrying, a couple should decide what names to use later.

After the wedding, registering a new name on documents and records may require a certified marriage license and a proof of residence bearing current name and address. Check each authority’s specific needs.

Also, a waiting period of 24 hours is

minister, active or retired judge, or public

required after application. The license, how-

official empowered to perform marriage. The

ever, is valid for 60 days.

signed license with information filled out

BASIC SEVEN TO START

should be returned to the recorder of deeds

✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤

A certified decree of divorce, often within a recent time frame, may be required. Date of divorce or death of a spouse also may be requested.

within 90 days of issuance.

If considering someone besides clergy or a public official to take charge, check

Charge for a marriage license varies by

with the county recorder of deeds where

county. For example, Madison County requires

you will be married to assure authoriza-

a non-refundable cash fee of $30.

tion-for-a-day will be valid.

Social Security card Driver’s license or state ID card Passport Bank accounts and checks Credit cards Insurance policies Post office address

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39

budget talk

E S SE N T I A L S

Money matters

BALANCE FUNDS, MANAGE WITH VISION HELD ON TOTAL SUM.

50%

RECEPTION

2-3%

CEREMONY Marriage license, site/officiant fees, aisle runner, canopy, candelabras, unity candle

Site fee, valet parking, catering costs, bar expenses (bartender & beverages), wedding cake, groom’s cake, cake cutter, cake topper, napkins, favors, decorations

7-10%

WEDDING ATTIRE Wedding gown/headpiece/veil/lingerie, hair and makeup, tuxedo, shoes, accessories, jewelry

6-8%

FLOWERS

4-6%

WEDDING RINGS Symbols to wear comfortably forever

Ceremony; bouquets for bride, attendants; boutonnieres; corsages for mothers, grandmothers, readers, special guests; Reception: centerpieces, cake topper (if using flowers) and bouquet to toss

2-3%

Bride and groom, attendants, parents

11-15%

4-5%

REHEARSAL

PHOTO & VIDEO

Site rental, food, beverage, tips

Engagement, videography, wedding, photo booth

4-6%

1-2%

MUSIC

Ceremony and reception, transition backdrop for single-venue wedding

EXTRAS

2-3%

STATIONERY

Announcements/save-the-date cards, invitations with envelopes and enclosures, programs, reception place cards, thank-you notes, postage 40

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

GIFTS

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

2-3%

TRANSPORTATION

To ceremony, photos, reception, after-party, wedding night venue; provisions for special guests

Ice sculpture, mementos for guests, fees for on-location photos

BALLROOM. ROOFTOP TERRACE. SKYLINE VIEWS. CHOCOL ATE. CARAMELROOM.COM

314.615.2480

1600 N. BROADWAY SAINT LOUIS

MISSOURI

- A 23 CIT Y BLOCKS PROPERT Y -

63102

FA SHION

reflections

The style that fits BRIDE ENVISIONS WHAT TO WEAR IN 5 MIRRORED SHAPES.

42

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Gown shapes are as diverse as brides themselves. Multitudes of options balance unique contours for the short, the tall, the lean or curvy, so guests exclaim over how marvelous you look.

Start in the gown shop. Try on gowns with someone along who is positively objective.

Bring favorite ideas plus an open mind. A professional gown consultant’s expertise can draw a matching style into sight.

Look in the mirror from all angles. Snap pictures and take notes to sort features that flatter or detract.

Compare these five body shapes with yours.

PEAR

RECTANGLE

Hips, and perhaps thighs, are wider

Straight line extends from shoulders to waist

than shoulders. Simple vertical, rather

to hips. Exult in a long, lean line or create

than horizontal, lines evenly shape curves.

geometric roundness with an A-line, frothy

Build a base to discover a gown structured for

An off-the shoulder or “V” neckline

and flirtatious skirt or elevated empire waist

your desired look and comfort. Each design

frames the face. An A-line gown highlights

for more skirt flow. Off-the-shoulder styles

complements a bride’s normal silhouette, but

an indented natural waist so an added

widen a top tier. Illusion pieces with embroi-

a professional may shape a dream gown into a

detail, such as studded waistband or

dered lace play peekaboo with what may or

fit for never-ending applause.

flowing sash, accents the top and lets

may not hide under sheer fabric. A nipped

the skirt flow gracefully.

waist provides high and low canvases for artistic balance. New curves flow with soft, breezy fabric. A slit elongates a tall bride’s legs and contrasting sash trims a wide middle.

HOURGLASS

APPLE

INVERTED TRIANGLE

A defined waistline sits between hips and

Slimmer thighs counter a fuller chest,

Shoulders are wider than hips. A

shoulders similar in size. This figure indulges

broader shoulders and less defined waist.

scoop neckline outlines a lovely neck.

easy enhancement. All necklines seem to

The waistline, wherever drawn, grabs the

Off-shoulder draping minimizes a generous

work. Glamorize an indented waist and let

eye. An empire waist eases lower flow, but

bustline. Popular modesty and illusion

natural curves contour this figure-hugging

a cinched waist slenderizes the silhouette

pieces balance a slim bodice to move the eye

silhouette. A mermaid gown delights in the

to balance proportion. With or without

down neck-to-knee embellishment. A ball

line, a sheath accents it, a cinched waistline

sheer illusion, a deeply plunging neckline

gown with a full skirt encourages flow, but

on a ball gown poufs into double (or triple)

draws attention away from wide horizon-

a confident bride’s short gown or high-low

layering of fluffy tulle or other feminine

tal shoulders to flatter the bustline. A wide

skirt exudes fun with alluring attention to

froth, and a low-flaring style guides an

ribbon, slightly dropped waist, asymmetrical

shapely legs and spectacular shoes.

elongated central line.

pleating or ruching focuses waistline interest.

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43

5714 S Lindbergh Blvd St. Louis, MO 63123 314-351-2499

www.ClaricesBridal.com BRIDAL BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Romantic venue perfect for intimate receptions, rehearsal dinners, showers and celebrations

Accommodates Up to 50 Guests Seated Meals and Buffets Starting at $12 Contact our Event Manager at 314-963-3434 or events.cyranos@yahoo.com 44

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sunny splendor

FA S H ION

Grace in beauty Photography provided by THE ULTIMATE BRIDE

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A bride’s unique wedding gown fits her world today when romance invades her spirit, said Megan Ramsey, store manager of The Ultimate Bride. Exuberantly sharing her own personality, she plans to look wondrous, marvelous and delighted while sharing this day-ofday prelude to life with her husband. Gown designers cue up the imaginative adventure with twists of tradition and whimsy, vintage and contemporary style. Gowns in layers and peek-a-boo illusion pieces dip into shades of moscato, almond and champagne that flatter a bride’s warmer skin tones.

Previous page, For the love of sleeves with romantic flavor, lace applique overlays illusion in off-the-shoulder straps and bodice to the hip of the Katherine fit-and-flare gown by Essence of Australia. Repeats of lace applique again celebrate the swirling tulle and Regency organza skirt.

Pearl buttons decorate the back of the bodice over illusion and at sleeve wrists. | Above, Romantic and effervescent, a Mori Lee long-sleeved ball gown of soft tulle concentrates detailed Alençon lace in back along the illusion neckline and center trimmed in covered buttons. Gored insets add fullness to the A-line skirt, again scattered with lace appliques, to fill a traditional aisle and party with lush movement. Its pearly moonstone-beaded net belt may be removed.

46

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Allover embroidery over net throughout a Mori Lee gown shows vintage inspiration in the Kasey A-line gown. Delicate and easy to wear, but showing a modern edge, the gown has a trim of delicate beading which becomes spaghetti straps and edges a notched illusion “V”-neck and open “V”-back. Its softly pleated skirt begins at the cinched waist and flows to a scalloped hem, strongly resembling lace, and chapel train.

The embroidered dress comes lined, but an adventuresome bride may wear a see-through bodice.

FALL & WINTER 2018

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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

47

Left, A modified fit-and-flare gown by Stella York emphasizes a bride’s frame in all the right places. A bride’s glowing smile will be the focus above vertical lace on the bodice and beading under the bust of an empire waist. A sweep train highlights reembroidered lace along the skirt’s edge, in panels of a flaring skirt and on the molded bodice with sweetheart neckline. Drawstrings or zipper may close the back. | Right, Access Old Hollywood glamour in a modern A-line of form-flattering crepe from E ssence of Australia. Lace features add memorable punch on sleeves of illusion and in back with fabric-covered buttons dropping to lace, which is inset on the train and edges the hem. The front neckline plunges in a lace-edged “V” and clear beading adds subtle sparkle. If preferred, the gown comes sleeveless.

FALL & WINTER 2018

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49

Left, Easily shaped to fit body contours, a Stella York gown in figure-flattering crepe. Laser-cut lace on side cutouts defines the waistline and edge a chapel-length train. The effortless fabric offers a clean look with a touch of French-inspired lace. Glittery micro beading straps crisscross in back to meet above elegant fabric-covered buttons from back to train. | Above, Off-the-shoulder straps in modern lace add Old Hollywood subtlety and glamour to a lightly sparkling, bohemian-style gown by Stella York. Graphic floral lace contours an open back with fabric-covered buttons and covers the long bodice of the fit-and-flare gown. Laser-cut lace in a lattice design memorably edges the skirt and train.

FALL & WINTER 2018

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51

Left, Simple glamour envelops a classic bride in an Essence of Australia gown with off-the-shoulder sleeves and plunging sweetheart neckline. Romantic and elegant, the structured gown in luxurious silk Mikado hugs the hips until it flares effortlessly into a fuller skirt.

Visible curved seaming helps form its hourglass shape. Back buttons run from top back to skirt bottom. A cathedral-length veil adds matching splendor | Above, A simply divine Stella York gown has elegant embellishment. The flattering A-line dress is full but lightweight in tulle for a traditional setting or outdoor event. Varying levels of lace, chantilly on bottom and reembroidered on top, form an interesting pattern and light sparkle glamorizes the bodice.

FALL & WINTER 2018

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F E ATUR E S

e t t e l Color Pa rich tones

Fall’s colors enrich the palette and lead into the cool season with

A person who cannot decide on which jewel tone would provide

warm hues. Jewel tones in colors that generate energy, plus greens,

the best effect might gaze into a mate’s eyes, then stick with tones

blues and purples with depth complement the emerging season. Gowns

that match them: sapphire, emerald or topaz. The same matching

for the women, both maids and moms, start the obvious color process

approach works to enhance skin tones.

as keystones for a wedding.

TURN OVER A NATURAL LEAF

JEWEL TONES

Nature draws the eye with oranges, reds, yellows, browns and

These colors mimic the bright, vibrant colors of favorite gemstones. Think ruby red, emerald green and the deep purple of

landscape greens. Katie Surkamp, manager of Clarice’s Bridal, noted that color depth provides the upcoming range.

amethyst. Wrap bridesmaids in these colors for stunning contrasts to

“Colors just feel so deep and lovely,” she said.

a white, ivory or champagne-colored bridal gown.

Tune in to names that relate directly to the world outdoors:

To reach a plateau farther, a bride steps out of the box and adds

hunter, heather, plum, eggplant, raspberry, wisteria, marine, truffle,

enchanting color to her own gown. This may be a distinctive feature

slate. For coffee emphasis, order latte as a color. Martini olive is

of the dress or subtly form a layer, frothy or finished, shouting with a

an offering of Pantone while still evolving with ultra violet as its

couple’s individuality on their big occasion.

2018 color of the year. If wine is a beverage of choice, champagne

latte

merlot claret

slate

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persists in popularity, enouraged by colors called burgundy, merlot and claret. A lineup of bridesmaids in gowns of chocolate brown is

mimosa

stunning. Rose gold still shines.

Bouquets and centerpieces literally translate the newly emerging or even seasonally silent landscape. Natural colors play well together

hunter

and lush greenery transforms indoor or outdoor decor into a velvety masterpiece.

CREATIVE GLITZ Glitz and glitter shine up a palette in these deep tones. Mesh fabrics flow independently or move to light up iridescent, changing surfaces.

“Satin is also huge, with much less chiffon,” Surkamp added.

She chose samples with reflective sequins and tiny beads completely covering a Mori Lee gown and two from Adrianna Papell’s Platinum Collection, one of them flaring with showy godet skirt panels. In

chocolate

simple, flowing style, a gown in slate blue is by Bill Levkoff. For sleek romance, Surkamp showcased a navy gown by Mori Lee and a dress in hunter green by Alfred Sung in the Dessy Group.

olive wisteria

heather

truffle

From left, Caviar mesh in bordeaux wine color, cap sleeves, A-line, low cutout back, by Morilee; crunchy style sequins on rose gold-colored mesh, off-the-shoulder sleeves, by Adrianna Papell; navy blue satin, straps convertible to off-the-shoulder, fit-andflare, by Morilee; blouson bodice, halter neckline, godet skirt in color merlot by Adrianna Papell.

Gowns provided by CLARICE’S BRIDAL Story by JANICE DENHAM and GREEN SHOOT MEDIA Photography by TROTTER PHOTO Color inspiration from VALSPAR, PANTONE

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fashion fit

F E ATUR E S

Lush Layers Photography by ALEX + SABINA PHOTOGRAPHY Made in USA Gowns and Photos provided by WEDDING GALLERY

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The look is luxurious, style and fabrics are international and shapes fit body contours. Each elegant gown is made in the Metropolitan St. Louis area by Wedding Gallery exclusively for its collections. Made-in-USA gowns are unique and available ready to wear.

Left, A champagne-colored ball gown with sweetheart neckline from the Treasures Collection features a bodice of embroidered lace that is corded and beaded. From a natural waistline with beaded sash flows a skirt with multiple layers of tulle and sequins shining underneath. Its chapel-length train follows.

Above, A soft look from the Beau Monde Couture Collection befits a fit-and-flare mesh gown with floral lace and sequined layer hinting with charm under the lace. A hand-beaded bodice shows an alluring front “V” neckline with straps and dips low in back. Hem lace circles continuously.

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Left, Getting into the swing, an A-line gown from the Treasures Collection of Wedding Gallery is envisioned and available in ivory. Under a sweetheart neckline, the bodice with soft beaded lace stops with a ribbon sash at the natural waist. Two layers of tulle, one with reflective sequins, top lace mesh.

Above, A dropped waistline allows space for the outstanding look of hand-beaded lace applique on a “V” neckline both front and back and straps on an easy-to-wear design from the Simply Charming Couture Collection. Mesh is the soft and figure-flattering base fabric with sequins sneaking their glow onto layers of tulle for an A-line skirt and cathedral-length train.

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A dreamy ball gown from the Beau Monde Couture Collection of Wedding Gallery attracts attention. Whimsical layers of soft lace over hand-embroidered sequined lace allow champagne color to show through. Lace appliques are embroidered and hand-beaded on a strapless bodice with sweetheart neckline. The beaded lace matches continuously on the skirt’s hem and a train of semi-cathedral length.

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Your Day. Your Dream Dress.

Proudly made in the USA.

Designer Couture Wedding gowns To make every brides’ dream come true Proudly made in our local factory here in St. Louis Ask about our Peace Of Mind option

St. Charles 425 Clark Street St. Charles, MO 63301

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St. Louis 4164 Chippewa St. Louis, MO 63116

636-724-7038

636-724-9012

314-219-8700

www.weddinggalleryweb.com

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F E ATUR E S

pamper, renew

Start at the top with massage to relax and renew the entire mind and body before a wedding.

Glamorous glow Story by JANICE DENHAM | Photography provided by WELLBRIDGE ATHLETIC CLUB & SPA

Enthusiasm and spirit remain high for your

A local spa or health facility creates an oasis

layers of the body, including muscles, joints and

upcoming wedding. All the same, the rushing,

of calm. Individual and group packages may

connective tissues. The ancient art of therapy

the decisions, the late-night thinking – and even

include manicures, pedicures, massages, facials

using heated stones is a popular option as a full

the parties – wear down the body and upend the

and other services to help relax and renew body

body massage, too, for a soothing, nurturing,

balance of people pushing to ready everything

and mind. The treatment most requested for a

and grounding experience. Specific areas, such as

for the big day. Take a deep breath. Wellbridge

bridal party at Wellbridge, according to Sanders,

scalp or hands and feet, can be added to elevate

Athletic Club & Spa in Clayton has suggested

is a massage. Manicures and pedicures follow in

that feel-good perspective.

ways to regain equilibrium to better appreciate

popularity for both men and women.

Massage relaxes muscles and helps calm the

all the surrounding excitement.

PAMPERING CALMS, RENEWS Everyone likes to be pampered. Enjoy some down time at the spa with friends and family

Don’t wait until the last minute to think

to toe. It improves blood circulation to help all

about skin – for a woman or a gentleman. A

parts of the body stay physically and emotion-

glowing complexion puts its best face forward

ally balanced.

in engagement photos, but certainly forecasts

Don’t be afraid to try something new.

to stay healthy and lighten stress, urged spa director Andree Sanders. Newlyweds-to-be

62

SKIN TO ADMIRE

whole body for a state of relaxation from head

Results may start a whole new routine.

glowing, amazing skin on the big day.

Always, always wear sunscreen to avoid sun

find it a perfect way to prepare for the big day

For instance, Wellbridge offers classic

damage, recommended Jool Guest, aesthetician

individually or together, but it also renews and

Swedish full-body massage tailored to meet

at Wellbridge. Apply it 20 to 30 minutes before

forges relationships when it includes the bridal

specific needs. These can range from 35 to 80

going outdoors and reapply every three hours

party – and even future in-laws.

minutes. Deep tissue massage targets deeper

while outdoors, every hour or two when the body

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Lawrence Florist

Congratulations on Your Wedding engagement! for your spECial Day, sElECt

is exposed to a lot of sun and perspiring heavily.

Guest adds a reminder to cover all exposed areas, including ears, eyelids, lips and other commonly missed areas.

SET A SCHEDULE Guest suggested a time line for skin support

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before a wedding: 6 months (at least): Start a series of skin treatments to get skin in peak performance. A wedding is the perfect excuse to spoil oneself with a monthly facial, where a licensed aesthetician can deep-cleanse, exfoliate and make any necessary extractions to skin. A massage of

CONNECT WITH US:

the face and décolletage area stimulates blood circulation and keeps skin looking flawless.

Consult with the professional for advice on a skin-care routine to keep skin glowing, firm and hydrated.

4-5 months: Focus on biggest concerns,

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particularly fine lines, breakouts and sun damage. A scheduled series of peel or resurfacer treatments, along with monthly facials, helps slough off dead skin cells for deeper exfoliation and brings fresh, smooth skin to the surface.

Discuss dermaplaning with an aesthetician as an option for removing the epidermis and ridding the skin of fine vellus hair, or “peach fuzz.” Unlike waxing, where warm melted wax is applied to the skin and unwanted hair is lifted away with a wax removal strip, dermaplaning is preferred treatment for people with sensitive skin, allergies or sensitivity to chemical peels.

Guest explained that it leaves the skin brighter, smoother and more youthful.

2-3 months: Watch for breakouts triggered by stress hormones. Spot treat as needed with a product for that purpose.

1 month: Schedule a final skin treatment four to five days before the wedding. Avoiding extreme measures, this treatment should concentrate on gentle cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing.

1 day: Devote the day to makeup and hair, stay hydrated and take along an emergency skin-care kit packed in advance.

www.SamiGPhotography.com

314.703.3904

SamiGPhotography@gmail.com

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F E ATUR E S

face-forward

Beauty accents

By JANICE DENHAM

Photo by TROTTER PHOTO

Every bride wants to shine her prettiest

‘SOFT’ SENSES ‘DRAMATIC’

smile in her own beautiful way, so she enhances herself with accents.

A bride’s natural beauty holds the key on the starting pad. Turn it on with a little pink

She wants to earn a B.A. degree for Beauty

to achieve a slight flush. McFerson is likely to

match lipstick, so if a bride has a bold-red type of personality, that trait will color nails, too.

DETERMINE COURSE EARLY

Accents on her wedding day. With the com-

define the eyebrow to allow the eye to open,

panion of her future alongside, she picks out

rather than boldface it for drama. The same

basic locations and dress to personalize.

goes for lashes and even lash extensions. There

ing to direct “the look” – for both bride and

should be just enough to let the bride’s beauti-

groom – is six months before the wedding day.

ful eyes “pop” on photos, she claimed.

Try out looks. Decide a direction, then tweak

Morgan Drawe McFerson, manager and bridal specialist at Belleza Bridal and Hair Salon, said a wise consultant is flexible.

“Styles change quickly and she can help

“When false lashes are used for that ‘pop,’ the rest of the face can be downplayed to

Recommendation for finding and start-

it earlier than later.

At the outset, a bride should bring pictures

determine them, but she also needs to uncover

enhance a simple, ‘fresh-face’ look. A little

of the hair and makeup looks she loves to a

what the bride is looking for. That is our job,”

shimmer with a rosy dew look brings out

specialist she is considering. If the prospect

she said.

natural beauty. Shadow powders are trending

does not ask about her gown and other details,

now with nude and more neutral eye shadow

move on to try another more interested in cor-

powders. Colors sound less flamboyant, names

relating her expertise with the bride’s persona.

She described the many looks that today’s brides envision.

“There is the bride who wants fun, with a finger wave curl on her hair and bright red on

ranging more like rose, pink, blush, latte, mauve and brown and beige.”

her lips. Then, you have someone who wants a classic look, something soft and subtle,

Consider desired hair color at this time, too, to avoid damage and surprises later. Hair is a hot topic to plan maintenance to improve

POINT TO A MATCH McFerson said many brides have fun with

her hair down and decorated with a clip.

64

She added a disclaimer. Nail color will

its quality, if extensions are needed or what details might complete the wedding-day plan.

There also is the romantic bride with her hair

their nails, but brush them in a softer base

Brows can be part of this exploration. Future

braided and more pink and champagne color-

shade of pink. Then, that ring finger stands

appointments should be reserved when the

ing her life and her lips.”

out to show “the hand in a ton of pictures.”

newly-minted “team” is set to direct its moves.

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Assessing a groom’s skin and hair reinforces his important role in the wedding, too. This might be the first time he ever has

style, because “hair is hair and the most amazing curls will fall after a while.”

The goal should be atwo-fold: admiring

the veil with a clip after the ceremony.”

Silk or real flowers offer another decorative option. A clip chosen to be made from a

been pampered with deliberate consideration

the bride’s face when she exchanges vows with

brooch, with or without flowers attached, may

– and ultimately love it and want to continue

her husband and seeing it again smiling in

provide sentimental meaning in the traditional

it with his bride after the wedding.

photos afterward. Strategically meshing both

role of something “old,” “borrowed” or “blue.”

ideas may forecast hair tactfully, yet function-

When not made from an heirloom, it can

ally, hidden with pins on the sides.

fulfill the “new” slot.

Most salons that cater to women as brides are pleased to assist the groom, too. Belleza, taking another step, has incorporated a barbershop into its design, service and party space.

MATCHING DETAILS A bride who wants a spotlight to settle on her lovely self may have chosen a dress that diverts attention from an extra tattoo or scar. McFerson pointed out that airbrush makeup can help cover – to a degree – what might still be obvious. However, airbrush makeup is intended for 12-hour use, so she warns against applying it where it will rub against the gown because the contact may cause a stain.

If the dress is still to be chosen, she urges the future bride to consider a style which attracts the eye to other positive elements.

For instance, a high neckline with an ornate top and hair styled so it does not conflict with the dress draws the eye upward to the bride’s excited, happy face.

THUMBS-UP FOR HAIR Seasonal shifts may determine how hair is worn at a wedding in St. Louis, said the specialist. Summer and spring brides

Of course, she added, there always will be

usually want it up and off the neck, still

a bride who prefers a casual, bohemian edge to

softly curled and with decorative features

her look, keeping it soft but not every hair in

to hold them.

a specific spot.

“We follow what a bride wants, but we

And, she added as a helpful reminder,

recommend that she have her hair in a place

there is space in the world of wedding hair

where it will stay all day so she doesn’t have to

and makeup for her, too.

worry about it with dancing, moving, heat and humidity,” McFerson said.

A bride’s choice of hairstyle is a cer-

TOPPERS AND FLOWERS “We still see a ton of veils,” McFerson said,

tain sign of changing seasons. In October,

“but lots of other brides also opt for a decora-

November or December, brides who come to

tive clip or more of a leaf with crystals on it.

Belleza usually plan to wear it down. She sug-

They wear it in many ways. They might use it

gested securing curls, even with an all-down

instead of a veil and keep it there, or replace

Above, A bride usually prepares for her wedding by putting herself in the hands of an experienced specialist who can guide the bride’s major design with details of makeup and prowess with hair.

Left, Rachel Rosenquist, bridal assistant at Belleza Bridal and Hair Salon, extended the glamour without overstating the eyes of April Tyus-Myles as she prepared to model for the cover of the fall-winter issue of St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine.

Photos provided by BELLEZA BRIDAL AND HAIR SALON

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FA SHION

accessories

Decorative sparkle A world of modern accessories encourages a bride to stand out in a unique role as honoree as well as host. Her glowing confidence puts guests at ease.

Jewelry from Belleza’s exclusive boutique is not always a perfect “set,” said bridal assistant Rachel Rosenquist, but chosen as part of an assortment of “pretty things” to highlight styles and create a memorable impression.

Combs are favorites anywhere in the hair: in the back of a full updo, hair all the way down with one side swept back or in the side or back of a half-up, half-down style secured, if necessary, with bobby pins. Rosenquist called the hairstyle at right “vintage waves” in a Hollywood style.

Right, Jewelry should ramp up glow and glamour without overpowering the total look. The specialist suggests that “statement” earrings, like these in popular rose gold, speak strongly for the day’s look, so the neck can be left bare or minimally covered with a necklace.

A bracelet shines, albeit modestly, in narrow strands.

Photos provided by BELLEZA BRIDAL AND HAIR SALON

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©2018 DAVID’S BRIDAL

the adventure begins Make it a day to remember. Visit davidsbridal.com or call 877.923.2743 for an appointment.

ST. PETERS, MO / FAIRVIEW, IL / SUNSET HILLS, MO

L OV E S TORY

Danielle & Miguel MARCH 31, 2018

‘In the end, I just wanted her to be happy.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STRIKE A POSE PHOTOGRAPHY

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‘Family matters as much to him as it does to me.’

Danielle Merlati and Miguel Rios were

“There was never a light bulb,” Danielle said.

Their parents draped them in a Mexican lasso

13-year-olds in, appropriately, Spanish class. It

“We thought we just wanted to be together and,

(lazo) of bejeweled pearls symbolizing their linked

was 2006 at Crestview Middle School in Ellisville.

if that works, it should be forever.”

future. They presented flowers to the mothers,

“He was easygoing, funny, fun to be with.

Buying a house in Gray Summit in late 2016

We just always could have a good time,” Danielle

prompted Miguel’s proposal. He picked a ring by

said about their first dates as freshmen in high

favorites she had saved on her phone.

two grandmothers attending and at Mary’s statue, a custom in common.

Fabric on the ring bearer’s pillow came from

school. Her “big, beautiful smile and beautiful

“He asked my dad for his blessing while they

shirts of the bride’s deceased grandfathers and a

eyes” were more than Miguel, who had been born

were building a fence for our dogs in March of

table held memories of them and an aunt. The

in Mexico, could resist. He immediately fell in

2017,” Danielle said. “We invited both families

bridal bouquet’s flowers held a piece of fabric

love with her.

over to see the house. It was Miguel’s birthday

from the first communion dress Danielle’s

The relationship grew as they did.

that day and my mom’s 60th a few days before, so

grandmother had made for her.

They were a couple at ball games, school

I teased his family when they showed up without

dances and he watched her perform in musical events. Living five minutes apart offered easy connections. Her mom drove them to go

my favorite Mexican beer, Modela.”

Miguel and his brother returned with beverages – plus a mariachi band.

After the service, they headed to Forest Park during the only rain-free time of the day, so the eight umbrellas Danielle packed were unused.

Music and dancing invited everyone to join the

bowling or attend school activities. Although

“It took a lot of planning and finding all the

international fun at the reception at DoubleTree

all the parents were friends, Danielle’s late-night

parts, but it all fit together perfectly. She was

by Hilton Hotel St. Louis-Chesterfield. The

totally surprised,” he said in happy conclusion.

mariachi band, in traditional ensembles, wound

Danielle never doubted her reaction. “He

festive music around guests during cocktails, and

brings true happiness to my world. He makes

The bride and groom initiated dancing

does to me,” she said. Miguel pointed to their

with “This Magic Moment.” Danielle said, “My

balance. Danielle’s seriousness in caring for moms

memory of the wedding is the sheer happiness

and their newborns “brings out a part of me that

of that day. Everyone was dancing.”

usually doesn’t show.”

order to go to bed.

A “snake dance” started with the couple on

November wedding plans were delayed until

chairs hoisted high, the groom holding the bride’s

March 31, 2018, so her dad would heal from heart

veil. “Women hold hands and wind around first

surgery and walk her down the aisle. “Pushing it

and try to break the hold. Then the guys run into

back made it all the better!” exclaimed Danielle.

the groom. It gets kind of rowdy, but everyone

For a new Easter weekend date, they switched to

has fun,” Danielle explained.

St. Stanislaus Kostka Church to exchange vows

Miguel nervously let friends toss him in the

and mesh elements in their pan-American merger.

air. Guests pinned money to the newlyweds’

Since high school, Danielle had shared

conversations with Miguel drew her mom’s stern

serenaded them during dinner.

me laugh. Family matters as much to him as it

clothes in a Mexican-style dollar dance.

wedding dreams with Miguel. He said, “We

They cut a two-layer cake topped with a figure

would have to look at both our cultures. In the

resembling them and their dogs. Guests selected

end, I just wanted her to be happy.”

a variety of sweets, including candy and dulce de

Each wore new boots. Danielle carried her great-grandmother’s handkerchief. Jewelry

tres leches, an extra-rich Mexican cake tradition.

Each had happy memories of the day.

After senior prom, Miguel joined his dad’s

accents from their parents matched the bride’s

“The joy started when I walked down the aisle

landscaping business and Danielle studied for

theme of purple, her favorite color. Her purse

with my dad and I saw Miguel’s smile,” the bride

nursing school and worked at a supermarket.

and veil were used by her sister when Danielle,

recalled. Placing a ring on each other’s hand was

Schedules and jobs left little time together, but

age 8, was her attendant. Miguel bought his hat

significant for the groom. “I haven’t taken mine off

they gradually realized marriage would be their

and boots in Chicago to go with formal wear.

since the wedding,” he said of jewelry he expected

mutual future.

Each spoke vows in his or her first language.

to put aside due to his outdoor work.

WEDDING DELIGHTS. At our floral design center, our professional designers are dedicated to bringing your dream wedding to life.

Your special events coordinator will help you with varieties, colors and trends. From elegant to extravagant, your special day is our top priority!

To make an appointment, call (314) 997-2444.

schnucksfloral.com

Š2018 Schnucks

artful blooms

ON T H E COV E R

Bouquet bliss

Pink proteas stand sublime amid lavender and blush pink roses, fluffy white wax flowers and pink veronica placed in a fresh-looking bouquet by ALWAYS IN BLOOM.

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Favorite colors emit wedding-day joy.

LAWRENCE FLORIST unlocks them with white hydrangeas and creamy Quicksand roses, burgundy astilbe, baby blue eucalyptus, white hypericum berries and green Italian ruscus.

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Orange sherbet and bluish-pink roses, orange callas and cream-colored hypericum berries light up a bouquet from ALWAYS IN BLOOM. Safari Sunset leucadendron, blue mountain thistle eryngium and gold-sprayed seeded eucalyptus double the contrasting colors and textures.

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Kale, a bromeliad and croton are hot picks in a WALTER KNOLL FLORIST design in step with pink freesia, red hypericum berries, yellow ranunculus and salal leaves. Black and white stripes contribute a contemporary handle to the tropical look.

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Sunflowers and yellow solidago turn on year-round brights.

Monte Casino asters relax with white star-shaped whimsy and Aussie greens, tree fern, seeded eucalyptus and delicate spikes of lily grass in a garden medley picked by WALTER KNOLL FLORIST.

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Dark purple lisianthus and Cool Water roses up the payload of pink-purple tones amid white cymbidium orchids, lavender aelstoemeria and ornamental cabbage. LAWRENCE FLORIST tempers the explosion with dusty miller, gray brunia berries and pearl-studded gray satin handle.

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For the white enthusiast, WALTER KNOLL FLORIST offsets brilliant hydrangea and Escimo roses with warm dusty miller and green Israeli ruskus. White satin wraps up multi-hued stems.

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Optimism finds its bright match in a WALTER KNOLL FLORIST bouquet. Orange gerbera daisies and spray roses boldly shine amid yellow dahlias, ranunculus, cottage yarrow and craspedia billy buttons. White hydrangea and Israeli ruskus anchor colors.

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Warm and lush, pink mink protea, pink and red roses, burgundy carnations, burgundy scabiosa and hanging pepper berry glamorize a bouquet by SCHNUCKS FLORAL AND GIFTS. Chenille flowers drop toward feather eucalyptus and silver eucalyptus in a cascading shape.

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Slightly wild and wistfully wonderful, a LAWRENCE FLORIST bouquet is sized with ornamental kale, pink dahlias, white brunia berries and Porcelina spray roses. Tendrils of pink veronica and seeded eucalyptus hang lightly with the softness of dusty miller.

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bouquets

FLOWERS

Perfect

PETALS A single variety or multiple stems provide tone, texture and style for a look of confidence on that perfect day. In-season blooms are generally more attractive in price, but worldwide availability may fly a flower of the heart straight to your bouquet. ALWAYS IN BLOOM captures nature’s variety: 1. sunflower; 2. yellow Viking poms; 3. pink cream carnation; 4. purple stock; 5. orange calla lily; 6. purple alstroemeria, 7. pink spray roses.; 8. dark blush rose; 9. salal leaves.

1 4

8

2 5 3

6

7

9

Amaryllis Anemone Apple blossom Aster Baby’s breath Bachelor’s button Bluebell Buttercup Calla lily Carnation Cherry blossom Chinese lantern Chrysanthemum Clematis Cosmos Craspedia (billy balls) Daffodil Dahlia Delphinium Dusty Miller Forget-me-not Forsythia Freesia Fuchsia Gardenia Gerbera daisy Hyacinth Hydrangea Hypericum berries Iris Jasmine Lilac Lily of the valley Leucadrendron Orchid Pansy Paperwhite Peony Poppy Protea Queen Anne’s lace Ranunculus Rose Scabiosa Seeded eucalyptus Snowdrop Stargazer lily Sunflower Sweet pea Tuberose Tulip Veronica Viburnum Violet Winterberry Yarrow Zinnia

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‘Magical’ Ireland hosts O’Mara wedding

Oh where, oh where shall our wedding be? Eureka Springs or Tower

been astronomical here.”

Jessica searched Irish venues for three months to discover a single

Grove Park, Italy or Ireland?

James O’Mara of Florissant and Jessica Bakker, who grew up in St. Charles, accepted the challenge when they were engaged in October 2015.

destination where everybody could stay together for two nights and avoid hotel-to-wedding shuttles. Ballymagarvey Village was the answer.

“Back before I even met Jess,” James said, “My grandparents gave their

Leaving a two-year engagement window, they sent save-the-dates more

children a Christmas present of a trip there, so my father took my sister and

than a year ahead of their Oct. 10, 2017, wedding to allow guests time to

me in 2008 to Ireland to visit our ancestors’ home towns.”

schedule vacation, save time and money, secure passports and arrange family

Jessica was not adamant about a wedding site.

trips. About the time they mailed them, a friend referred them to Travel

“James is very romantic and his family is quite large, while mine is very

Haus of St. Louis for coordination.

small,” she explained. “I could have married on courthouse steps like my

“We wanted to be certain everyone had a go-to source so they could call

mom was. Having a smaller wedding at a destination allowed us to have

someone,” James said. The travel agency, a specialist in honeymoons and

the higher quality level of food and a venue that we wanted but would have

destination events, arranged everyone’s transportation to Ireland and the

By JANICE DENHAM | Photos by AWAKE AND DREAMING PHOTOGRAPHY

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

45-minute trip from Dublin to Ballymagarvey, a private country estate.

Their Travel Haus specialist, Rachel Madigan, also arranged to have a bus available for convenient and flexible touring over three days and blocked rooms for guests to stay in Dublin beyond two nights in the countryside.

The bride and groom left for Ireland on Wednesday before their Tuesday wedding to tend last-minute details and compensate for jet lag.

Jessica and James, who stayed in the Dublin area 11 days, answered questions about the long-distance planning for their 10/10 wedding.

Why a travel agent: “It was nice to know someone would be there to fix any hiccups – even though there weren’t any,” Jessica said. Almost all 42 guests came from St. Louis or Kansas City. The maid of honor booked the last leg of her trip from Hawaii to Dublin to fly with the newlyweds-to-be.

Style of wedding: “We wanted it classic. Having only a maid of honor and best man allowed us to give the best man his tux, shoes, whole outfit for a match. The maid of honor, a girlfriend, picked her own dress in black.

We gifted her all the hair and makeup preparation.”

Real marriage: “The United States recognizes an Irish wedding license.

On our single trip to Ireland a year in advance, we met with the registrar in Dublin to set everything up so it would work in County Meath. We only needed birth certificates sealed by Missouri and passports, no blood tests.

A religious ceremony or previous marriage requires a lot more paperwork.”

ABC tips from Mike Mike Schellhase, owner of Travel Haus of St. Louis

A. Why use a travel agent to plan a destination wedding?

Daily relationships with wedding planners, resorts and destinations take care and concern out of worry about timing and details.

B. Where are today’s prime destinations from the Midwest?

1. Mexico leads. 2. Jamaica. 3. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

C. What timing works best?

Set sight on a plan 11 to 14 months before the date, especially in the busy months of October, September and May.

D. What should a couple know for best advice and inspiration?

1. How many will go? Will children attend? This helps match destination and resort.

2. Will the ceremony be symbolic (highest percentage, with legal ceremony in United States) or civil (married under laws of the destination country)?

E. What kind of destination should we choose?

Details: “Ballymagarvey is very inclusive as a wedding site. We did a

What fits the two of you? Plan like it will be a vacation-for-two.

lot like choose a DJ on Skype, even from our cell phones, at convenient times. We already had selected wonderful food from all the options that their private chef makes and picked favorite flowers when we got there.”

Last-minute plans: Jessica’s mom, in charge of the wedding dress, hung it in the captain’s closet of the plane without a wrinkle. An Instagram contact referred them to a Dublin stylist who came for wedding-day hair and makeup. James’ mother gathered mementos for all-Irish gift bags.

Results: “It was a dream wedding. Everything played out perfectly. A friend said she wants to convince her daughter to be married there, too!”

CALL FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

(314) 842-6000 1129 Concord Village Ave., St. Louis, MO 63123 www.travelhaus.com

Travel Haus is a full-service travel agency which has specialized in destination weddings and honeymoons since 1993.

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

L OV E S TORY

Nick & Joe JUNE 23, 2017

‘Joe is the sunshine coming out after a rainy day.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TROTTER PHOTO

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‘I felt the love in the room. … We felt so supported.’

It took a few months for Joe Schoen and

other’s family, too. Nick, an only child, said, “I

classic black. Red roses decorated tables, each with

Nick Simaku to meet in person. Their first date

quickly went from being the favorite in my family

a different musical theater theme. Musicians were

celebrated Nick’s birthday on Jan. 2, 2013.

to Joe being the favorite.” Joe said his family,

personal friends and colleagues. Tim Brennan

including five older brothers and a crew of nieces

– friend, owner and master baker of Cravings

and nephews, soon felt the same about Nick.

Restaurant – paid sweet-tooth homage with a

Nick, then a student at St. Louis College of Pharmacy, said, “Joe emailed to wish me a

rose-bedecked cake of Victorian sponge with

happy new year and asked what I was doing for

Deciding to find a place together, they moved

my birthday the next day. When I told him my

into the basement of Nick’s dad’s home when

friends were gone and there wouldn’t be much

Joe’s house unexpectedly sold in only three days.

Joe said, “I can sing and play music for others,

going on, he said that was unacceptable.”

Taking a year to find one that suited them in

but when I saw Nick, I was so happy that my

south St. Louis County resulted in “adjustments”

speaking became very emotional.”

They planned to have lunch, then take in a movie, but midday conversation flowed, so they

to their relationship, they said.

skipped the movie and moved straight to dinner –

Nick gave up on an engagement surprise

and more talk. “We connected,” Joe summarized.

after a mystery trip to Chicago did not produce

Nick said, “We just really clicked.”

English buttercream icing.

For the ceremony entrance, each walked up with his parent or parents to meet the officiant together. They wrote the ceremony and vows.

a proposal for his January birthday in 2016.

No dry eye remained when each of Joe’s

Nick was a serious science student at St.

Instead, Joe’s engagement goal was a long-planned

brothers made a short speech before the vow

Louis College of Pharmacy. Outgoing Joe

Caribbean cruise to Turks and Caicos Islands

exchange. “My father died when I was a year old,”

during spring break in March.

Joe explained. “My mother gave me his wedding

“I was oblivious,” Nick admitted.

ring. During the vows, each of my brothers held

An attempt for couple photos for their home

the ring and said something in memory of our

was the excuse. The onboard photographer drew

father. Then they handed Nick the ring.”

Nick’s attention long enough for Joe to drop

Joe said, “I felt the love in the room. Smiles

traditionally to one knee. Results were positive.

filled the faces of everybody. We felt so supported.

They found a house with a pool and moved

It was important for me and for Nick to feel that.”

by July. Their nonchalance uncovered no one to

A total of 280 guests attended the reception.

play the role of wedding planner, so they went

“Unlike the usual 10 percent who don’t come, we

into action. Their top priority, a single venue that

only had one who couldn’t make it,” Joe added

would perform like a theater for both ceremony

as an asterisk on their playbill.

and reception, prompted the June 2018 date.

Guests danced to the live music of Gene

They found The Franklin Room with its

Jackson and the Powerplay Band. For their first

stage. “Then, we turned it into a theater,” Joe

dance, Joe and Nick reenacted “Time of My Life“

said. Before the curtain opened on a 5:30 p.m.

from the movie, “Dirty Dancing.” They practiced

ceremony for close friends and relatives, they

the jump and lift behind the scenes just before

dedicated the afternoon to outdoor photos at The

the opening notes. Summing up the effect, Nick

Muny and The Fabulous Fox and in Forest Park.

said, “It was a hoot.” Joe told the happy results

Joe said, “We made it a full Broadway music

of the celebration, “Friends were singing and the dance floor was full the entire night.”

taught music in the Kirkwood School District

theme and chose all the musicals. Invitations were

and filled positions in local theater.

a Broadway playbill and the reply was a ticket

Nick said the day could not have produced

to the show. Everything we did was done on

“a better combination. It was the love we felt

our own.”

among everyone and knowing I was marrying my

Theater and music became a common theme.

Each had eagerly participated in productions as

best friend that day. Joe is the sunshine coming

students at all-boys’ high schools. They respected

They staged an “opening night” scene for

and complemented each other, one as a free spirit

guests to enter on a red carpet with a paparazzi

and the other as a grounding element. Soon, they

atmosphere. Celebrants produced a photo

Their next stop was Maui, Hawaii, where

considered themselves a “forever” team.

backdrop reading, “Joe and Nick in The Wedding.”

they saw the sun rise without a raindrop from

The cast of Nick, Joe and attendants dressed in

Mount Haleakala.

Being together a lot drew them to each

out after a rainy day.”

ON T HE COV E R

edible art

Sweet success Story by JANICE DENHAM | Cakes by SUGARBELLE CAKERY

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Buttercream tinted cornflower blue peeks through a semi-naked cake for tempting interest. Zelasko spreads light rose color of fresh flowers to French macarons and white chocolate sails and concentrates a little more color at the edge of the bottom layer and flecks a bit of silver leaf over it.

Photo courtesy of Sugarbelle Cakery at Sugar Creek, New Haven.

Previous page, A stately three-tiered cake iced in fondant is dressed up with swiss dots (groom’s request), edible gold brush embroidery, sugar flowers and artsy muted purple watercolor on the bottom layer. Sugarbelle Cakery’s dessert bar for the event includes chocolate Oreo shooters, berry-topped cheesecake shooters, mini apple pies and chocolate chip cookie sandwiches.

Photo by Carretto Studio Photography, wedding location at St. Louis Union Station Hotel Grand Hall.

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Creativity never has a day off on Lindsay Zelasko’s

Ever updating looks she wants to express, she has moved

calendar. Inspiration has shifted to match her life with two

to modernize details with shape and size from art and

young children, but wedding cakes of six-year-old Sugarbelle

architecture.

Cakery are now just as sweet to eat, inviting to sample and artistic to see as her pre-kids’ era.

“Couples who come to me come for a reason,” she said

“A more modern structure, when you look at a cake, has crisp, clean lines and is taller than wide,” she noted. “Some of my layers have an extra tall pier in a more modern industrial

about her cake-planning process. “They care as much about

look calling to mind marble or ‘concrete,’ a term used in the

the design as the taste. They want style and detail. The design

world of cakes, too.”

stays in my head until I get it onto paper in my sketch book.

Once they taste the cake, we are ready to book.”

For color, blush, burgundy and gold tones have been on the tip of Zelasko’s chart coloring recent wedding cakes. She eagerly anticipates the changing seasons with a new eye for color in cakes, too.

“I love it when somebody requests a different shade, like sage green or a muted purple, and I look forward to more lavender shades in the near future, too,” she said.

Fondant is her favorite frosting to create a crisp canvas

Her naked cakes, often complementing rustic decor, also undergo a metamorphosis these days with color incorporated into underlying buttercream, as she constantly fine-tunes ideas.

In the last year, she tried thinking “smaller.” On one hand, she was asked to do more groom’s cakes, which included a Star Wars’ Death Star.

“As much as I love weddings, wedding cakes are so detailed that they take a lot of time. So, I didn’t mean to go

for intricate handmade sugar flowers and other artistry she

into cookies, but I did. My daughter was born in January, so

envisions with a bride and groom. Gold and other metallic

my cookies have become a popular item,” said the entrepre-

details shimmer in edible touches. “Buttercream is tasty, too,

neur who delivers them for sale at Kirkwood Farmers’ Market.

but it doesn’t stay in place like fondant. Each cake layer has

Purposefully keeping her business without a storefront,

three layers of buttercream before the fondant goes on top,”

she has more time to devote to her other sweet project,

Zelasko explained.

children Elle and Emery.

Above and right, Each table holds a cake of varied flavor, iced in individual designs to capture the varied feel of the wedding reception at Windows on Washington, next page, and tickle the imagination of guests for pleasant conversation and encourage mingling and sampling.

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Baker extraordinaire Lindsay Zelasko incorporates the eclectic whimsy of a bridal couple’s favorite things – cats, unicorns, soccer, weight lifting, tandem bikes and doughnuts – into a selection of six-inch round wedding cakes for each table and a statuesque showpiece cake with a modern look for the bride and groom to cut. Sugarbelle Cakery’s home-baked, handdecorated cookies extended the look at a followup brunch after the big day.

Photos by White-Klump Photography, smallcake centers designed with An Affair to Remember and Mr. & Mrs. Wedding Events.

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sweet rewards

F E ATUR E S

Cake dives For 10 brides-to-be on July 16, 2017, the sun reflected on a multi-

tiered cake after the St. Louis’ Best Bridal Show at Sheraton Westport

at Fenton United Methodist Church and holiday hubbub.

Julie Scheer opened the

Chalet Hotel St. Louis.

“It was so much fun! It is such a great memory for us,” said Linda

ring capsule which held a

Gruss, one of those future brides. She and Jeremy McBride relived the

room rental prize for a bridal shower or engagement party

Brides slide ‘n’ glide

provided by Orlando’s Event Centers. She said she and Austin Peirick, who live in New Haven,

occasion later from online photos and drone footage

Mo., “have known

taken by Applause Productions. They enjoyed their

each other since we were babies and went to school

prize, a photo booth from Trotter Photo, at their

together from kindergarten through high school.”

wedding on Oct. 7, 2017.

called “the perfect prize” from Belleza Bridal and

away their prize, a DJ/photo booth/lighting package

Hair Salon. Her budget to wed Nathan Badgett on

from Applause Productions, to customize their

Feb. 24, 2018, did not include airbrush makeup.

local party after their September 2018 wedding in

“The Cake Dive gives me that gift for my wedding

Destin, Fla.

day – airbrush makeup and hair for myself and two

The mid-afternoon Bride’s Cake Dive formed an eclipse of sorts for two couples. Jessi Burch and Jeff Simmons already had set his attire for their Oct. 7, 2017, wedding, so they traded a groom’s wedding suit package from Suits 4 Men with a

94

Stephanie Kiszczak dug in face-first for what she

Alexandra Schwartzkopf and Jesse Meoli tucked

bridesmaids.”

Other prizes became special gifts at the Bride’s Cake Dive.

Janis Issa and John Ingoldsby enjoyed in-town fun with tickets to a St. Louis Cardinals baseball

pre-wedding party from Russo’s Catering, the prize inside the ring of

game and other prizes from St. Louis’ Best Bridal. Two other brides-

Alissa Bess, who will marry John Schwartz.

to-be also swapped prizes listed on rings they dug out of the cake. Liz

Victoria Smith and Peter Rybialek planned to use the grand prize in early

Bergman ended up with a gown package from Wedding Gallery for her

2018. The four-day, three-night, all-inclusive Funjet getaway trip for

June 2018 wedding to Chris Swope, while Nichole Caulley and Zachary

two from Travel Haus of St. Louis to El Dorado Spa Resorts and Hotels

Zeller won a limo package from Platinum Limo STL to use in their

by Karisma will help them decompress from their October 2017 wedding

plans for an autumn wedding.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Grooms-to-be take the plunge

Nick Werne and Kristen Weiland saw

alongside fiancée Liz Bergmann. Like other

themselves dressed differently, but envisioned their

couples, they said his beard will remain intact

wedding reception on Nov. 11, 2017, in the UMB

for their wedding, planned for June 15, 2018, at

Champions Club at Busch Stadium. Their prize

Haue Valley. Hidden in his ring was promise of an

Pregame entertainment on Sept. 12, 2017,

came from Russo’s Catering, the same baker of the

engagement video from Strike A Pose.

at Busch Stadium was self-conscious fun for a

glamorous multi-layered cake at the dive.

Other prizes for grooms and their brides-to-be

dozen stalwart grooms-to-be at the Groom’s Cake

John Schwartz and Alissa Bess were dressed

included packages for a pre-wedding party from

Dive of St. Louis’ Best Bridal. They dug face-first

for winter weather in the photo which put them

Rose of the Hill and Favazza’s on the Hill for

into a tiered cake from Russo’s Catering to earn

in the top group of online vote-getters for the cake

Jerad Carter and Ashley Jones; rehearsal dinner

a gift that would enthrall another future prize,

dive. John proposed on Jan. 7, 2017, under the

at Saint Charles Convention Center for Mike

their own sweet bride. None – not even a majority

Gateway Arch, site of their first date four years

Mosqueda and Danielle Viggers; a limousine ride

with beards – admitted “training” for the event.

earlier. His clandestine promise to ice skate was

from Platinum Limo STL for Sam Levine and

still on hold. They won a four-day, three-night,

Layla Carpenter; bouquets from Walter Knoll

all-inclusive Funjet getaway trip from Travel

Florist for Matt Lazarus and Casey Lawson’s

Dig inside multitiered wedding cake from Russo’s Cateri ng for plastic wedding rings with exciting promises of gifts.

Haus of St. Louis to El Dorado Spa Resorts

wedding at the Provincial House Chapel at the

and Hotels by Karisma to use after their jobs in

University of Missouri-St. Louis and reception

schools end and their wedding in June.

in St. Charles; a gown package from Wedding

HAN DICAP:

The prize from Trotter Photo, an engage-

Gallery for Sean Rakers and Paige Lape; rehearsal

MISSION:

Tuck hands

ment photo package, came at the right time for

dinner from Andre’s Banquet & Catering for

behind back, push face-fi rst into cake while kneeling on slither y icing of rapidly destructed cake.

Adam Hoppe and Marisa Miller to formalize

Chris Wolfmeier and Kaitlynne Kendall; tuxedoes

plans for their Sept. 22, 2018, wedding at the

from Savvi Formalwear for the wedding of Daniel

Saint Louis Zoo.

Dugan and Katie Danuser on Aug. 25, 2018; DJ

REWARDS: One of 10 bridesto-be or 12 groom s-to-be wedding prizes, which include d photo booth to spa session , groom’s suit to limo ride, rehearsal party to flowers, and everyone’s goal – an all-inclusive trip-for-two to a resort in Mexico.

After the cake dive, Chris Swope watched the St. Louis Cardinals’ game at Busch Stadium

services from Applause Productions for Brandon Mallinckrodt and Heather Gargus.

SWE ET FALLOUT:

Gratitude of spouse -to-be for unusua l, “dangerous” duty. T-shirt , flip-flops, goggles and made-for-you veil – frosting include d.

QUALIFIE R:

Top number of

votes online for couples’ photos at STLtoday.com/contests.

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AUDUBON’S OF STE. GENEVIEVE And

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Located in the heart of the historic district of Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, we are the ideal destination for your special event! Our newly remodeled century old building offers two private rooms – Cellar 56 and The Library Room – along with a full service restaurant, bar, and boutique hotel. From intimate weddings and receptions, rehearsal dinners, showers, luncheons, and “day after” brunch, AUDUBON’S strives to create a memorable experience with amazing food and exceptional service. Contact us at 573 883-2479 to schedule your event.

“Create memories and celebrate new beginnings at

Audubon’s of Ste. Genevieve.”

…WHERE THE PAST MEETS THE PRESENT 9 NORTH MAIN STE. GENEVIEVE, MO 63670 audubonsgrillandbar@gmail.com www.audubonstegen.info

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

festive focus

F E AT U R E S

Above, After the wedding ceremony at The Franklin Room or elsewhere, bruschetta crostini catches the appetite’s eye with fresh tomatoes and basil mixed with garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper on toasted slices of hearty bread.

Culinary cues See Nick & Joe’s reception photos with guests at The Franklin Room on page 87.

The bride and groom stand in their own spotlight, but wedding fare can be the star. Meant to be shared, it enhances congeniality and stimulates conversation. Creative and mouthwatering presentation warm the party spirit.

The Franklin Room presents and promotes the talents of Michele and Doug Swaney, owners for eight years. Each with an extensive background in culinary fields, the husband–and–wife team works together full-time. In Chef Doug’s estimation, the top reviews come from wedding guests who appreciate inviting foods that feature fresh ingredients and seasoned preparation. They suggested wines that pair well with each of his entrees.

With 30-foot ceilings, windows 10 feet high and original wood floors, the 112-year-old ballroom in the Soulard neighborhood is charming, historic and romantic. The Franklin Dramatic Club, founded in 1871, brought the men of adjacent Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Parish together to perform plays in their newly-built parish hall. The Swaneys always assure brides and grooms that a bird’s-eye photo of their entire gathering taken from The Franklin Room stage will become a prize wedding keepsake.

Food presented by THE FRANKLIN ROOM | Photography by TROTTER PHOTO

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Chef Swaney’s tip to a future bride and groom: Sample all types of entrees, including meatless, offered by a prospective venue. Above, At The Franklin Room, he serves zucchini, eggplant and yellow squash, sautéed in olive oil with Italian seasoning, alongside steamed broccoli and cauliflower and centers it with a rice medley topped with sautéed red bell pepper slices.

Right, House salad of mixed greens, red cabbage and carrot is tossed with house-made balsamic vinaigrette and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Suggested wine: Kim Crawford sauvignon blanc

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Above, Fresh pico de gallo tops roasted salmon filet as “surf” contrasts “turf” of sliced whole-roasted beef tenderloin with cabernet demi sauce. Asiago potatoes and a melange of summer vegetables round out the colorful plate. Right, Fresh, plump, seasonal berries - blueberries, blackberries, strawberries and raspberries - colorfully tempt the palate over greens accented with chef-inspired raspberry vinaigrette.

Suggested wine: Estancia pinot noir

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Above, Slow-roasted prime rib of beef warms a hearty focus with au jus of creamy horseradish and a sprinkling of sun-dried tomato and green onion. Hearty vegetables - baby red potatoes, Brussels sprouts and butternut squash - are oven-roasted to enhance their sweet notes. Right, Caprese bites line up skewered with marinated mozzarella cheese and grape tomatoes amid pieces of fresh basil, ready for the taking around a tomato rosette.

Suggested wine with prime rib: Jacob’s Creek Reserve cabernet sauvignon, a malbec, or for variation, a sweeter Riesling Suggested wine with Sicilian chicken: Santa Margherita pinot grigio or Clos du Bois chardonnay Suggested wine with chicken and shrimp: Kim Crawford sauvignon blanc or Clos du Bois chardonnay

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Above, Panko bread crumbs, garlic and lemon season chicken breast with Sicilian attitude. Mashed sweet potatoes with butter, salt and pepper swirl with flavor and are served with roasted root vegetables.

Below, Chicken breast and shrimp are sautéed in garlic-flavored scampi style. Carrot, celery and green onion play up color and flavor in rice.

Carrots in a colorful rainbow – yellow, purple, white and orange – are served with Southwestern flavors. Cilantro is the garnish.

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Above, Palm-size homemade desserts step up with cake for sweet treats. Clockwise, from top left, petite dark chocolate truffle tarts, traditionally brown-topped St. Louis gooey butter bites, white chocolate mousse in hard-shell dark chocolate cups, strawberries dipped in dark and white chocolate for wedding-fashion designs.

Left, Mini sandwiches prefix a hearty meal or add a postscript to a substantial late-night snack. Chef Swaney’s lineup: Front to back, black-and-blue bites of blackened beef tenderloin with blue cheese crumbles on toasted crostini, plus pulled pork with his special bourbon-flavored barbecue sauce served on honey butter-glazed fresh buttermilk biscuits.

More local late-night snack ideas: pizza, loaded cheesy fries, toasted ravioli, ice cream, warm pretzel puffs.

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heartfelt words

PA R T Y PL A N S

Your one-of-a-kind event is cleared for takeoff. A timetable lets everyone follow your

4 TIPS TO TOAST Responsibility for toasting the bride and groom at their reception typically falls not only the shoulders of the bride’s father, but also may be a task for the best man and maid of honor.

Though an honor, giving a toast can be nervewracking. No one wants to give a toast memorable for the wrong reasons, so be prepared, stand tall and keep each part brief. Alcohol does not improve delivery.

Coming from the heart rather than copied from a how-to guide helps ensure that a toast wisely covers its aim without offending the bridal party, parents or fellow guests. A survey of those who have delivered a successful toast

wishes according to a carefully set ETA. This sample of when to eat, dance and inject other amusement helps design your special occasion and opens the time for unique revisions. Communicate clearly with the DJ or master of ceremonies as well as photographer and other planners exactly what the plan is so they can keep timely watch over the event and help round up moving parts.

Pace party

MIND THE TIME 6:30

9:00

Guests mingle and meet, cocktails and

If wedding cake is served, it is cut first,

appetizers are served. Music usually

then the catering staff serves slices of

starts the party. Bride and groom arrive

cake or offer other dessert(s).

SIP COCKTAILS

DESSERT IS SERVED

unheralded, perhaps after a planned time for posed pictures along the perimeter or lingering at the ceremony site.

✤ First, know your audience. Diverse families from far and wide celebrate with the happy couple on their wedding day. A wise

7:15

9:15

IN THE SWING Guests follow the tenor of the newlyweds.

ENTER, TOAST, DINE

Work out a music schedule in advance with the DJ or music leader.

start acknowledges guests and thanks them

When dinner chimes ring, guests pick

for being there. This often breaks the ice and

up place cards and find their tables. The

calms a presenter’s nerves, especially when

bridal party is announced and seated.

facing strangers. Extend gratitude to parents

Champagne/wine or other bubbly is

of both bride and groom.

poured so each guest is ready for toasts

It’s your party. Bouquet and garter tosses

before dinner. The father of the bride

may suggest who marries next. Line dance,

welcomes guests first. Other members of

distribute favors, give token gifts to those

the bridal party follow. Dinner is served.

married longest, serve snacks, toast mid-

✤ Explain your relationship to bride and/or groom. Introduce yourself and explain how you met them. A comical twist is appropriate here.

✤ Hold tone of celebration. Focus on happy times with the bride and groom. Don’t drift. Share a funny, brief anecdote illustrating your special bond with the bride and/or groom. Keep in mind that not everyone may know you, but will honor your heartfelt sentiment.Keep any story appropriate for all ages, including children and grandparents.

✤ Extend personal best wishes to the bride and groom. As a last gesture, raise your glass toward the couple before the actual

9:45

EXTRACURRICULARS

night with everyone who stays.

8:45

TRADITIONAL DANCES Bride and groom take center stage for

10:45

BON VOYAGE OR NOT

their first dance as a married couple.

If the newlyweds leave the reception early,

Father and bride dance, then mother

guests may gather to wish them farewell

and groom take to the dance floor. At

as the party does or does not wind down.

last, the bridal party, paired as brides-

A popular option: Bride and groom dance

maids and groomsmen, enjoy a dance.

the night away, then continue to celebrate

A choreographed dance may surprise

with remaining guests at another safe,

and be memorable for guests.

convenient location.

toast. Express best wishes, then invite guests to raise their glasses to toast the newlyweds, too. If it fits the tone of the newlyweds/hosts, express the toast as a blessing.

104

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Locations for Receptions and Pre-Wedding Parties.

StLouisBestBridal.com  Bridal Marketplace

Bubbly delicious, Blackberry Thyme Sparkler dances with champagne around a party. For gold baking sugar to adhere to a flute, rub a touch of butter around the rim. The cocktail’s ombrecolored layers pop first with one ounce of gin and two ounces of blackberry-flavored simple syrup, which can be made well in advance. Drop in two fresh blackberries, then fill the rest of the glass with champagne. Thyme waves in fresh wonder.

Cocktail courtesy of SAINT CHARLES CONVENTION CENTER | Photography

by TROTTER PHOTO

ON T HE COV E R

keynotes

CRAFTY

Cocktails Beverages provided by SAINT CHARLES CONVENTION CENTER | Connie Barber, Senior Catering Manager, and Stanley Walker, Food and Beverage Manager | Photography by TROTTER PHOTO

Step up to the wedding with warm ideas for a signature drink, then pour it over ice or let it fizz to reflect and resonate the party’s style. Top to bottom, these specialties look spectacular and can be adjusted for personal flair and flavor.

Cotton Candy Cocktails Sweet fluff is a big hit with all ages.

The trick for delivery is to keep cotton candy fresh from the package out of the liquid so it doesn’t – pouf! – disappear. Filling a champagne glass two-thirds full helps avoid touching the two ingredients. The candy’s color can coordinate with wedding decorations. For a Cotton Candy Martini, combine 4 cups grape juice and, if desired, 6 ounces vodka in vanilla or another flavor.

For instant magic, simply pour liquid of choice over cotton candy.

Chocolate Delight A martini with chocolate draws obvious acclaim. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, vigorously shake together vodka, crème de cacao, white chocolate liqueur and half-and-half. Strain into a martini glass with honey-coated rim dipped in shaved chocolate.

Impressive Layers The bottom combines mashed blackberries with a simple syrup of cucumber and mint, its sweetness personally determined, and gin. Top the drink with ice and soda water, gently encouraging flavors to mesh without losing a tiered effect.

Opposite page, front to back, Sweet-and-tart cranberry juice makes an extra-festive margarita. Combine equal amounts of fresh lime juice and tequila, add orange-flavored liqueur, such as Cointreau or Triple Sec, and double the liquids with all-cranberry juice. Serve the drink over ice in your choice of sugar- or salt-rimmed glasses, garnish with fresh cranberries and lime wedges. | White Mojito is ready to sing at a holiday event with last-minute garnish of pomegranate arils which merge into the mixture. Fresh mint leaves are muddled with sugar and lime juice to seep flavorfully down into the creamy drink. White rum, coconut rum and coconut milk combine for a winter-wonderland look. | Coco Snowball made with blue curacao matches the season’s winter garb and whips up a mixture with rum and coconut flavors. Rim the glass with honey, then dip into shredded coconut. | Fizzy champagne (3 ounces) takes a tangy approach with cranberry juice (2 ounces) and orange liqueur (1/2 ounce). Stake with a lemon slice, float fresh cranberries on top and edge with mint.

106

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

We Make Your Dreams Come True!

Make your wedding day carefree and unforgettable, let our professional consultants, knowledgeable staff, and executive chef do what they do best.

Call today for a Complimentary consultation and receive a Free wedding planner.

4532 South Lindbergh Boulevard • Sunset Hills, MO 63127 (314) 226-1010 • www.LiUNAEventCenter.com

L OV E S TORY

Victoria & Joshua N OVEM B ER 1 0, 2017

‘She was sweet and down to earth.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STRIKE A POSE PHOTOGRAPHY

FALL & WINTER 2018

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

109

‘Surprisingly, he was very interested in me.’

His quiet persistence drew the attention of

Tori’s life always has included dogs. A

Four-year-old Roush was the first element she

Tori Pinkas. Eventually, she couldn’t ignore her

registered veterinary technician, she has worked

determined – in fact, “the minute Josh proposed”

own feelings and decided it was time to be certain

at Animal Protective Association of Missouri as

– would be part of the wedding. Red, her favorite

Josh Harned didn’t slip away.

well as the Metro East Humane Society. Early in

color, paired with silver for a November wedding.

Their first meeting, arranged by mutual

their time together, she welcomed Josh’s sympathy

“If we could have done the entire wedding in

friends, was at a bowling alley in February 2012.

when Jade, her 4-year-old Bernese mountain dog,

sparkles, I would have been happy,” she said.

“I maybe said five words to him that night,” she

died from a brain tumor. “He was beyond caring

For tradition, the bride had blue pearls on

remembered of the big gathering. “Surprisingly,

and supportive. He did everything he could to

her garter and wore a barrette borrowed from

he was very interested in me. He was persistent.”

help ease the pain,” she said.

her mother. Sparkly red heels peeked out from

It was not easy. Tori lived in Pontoon Beach

It was a turning moment. She knew she

under her new gown. The family friend who

and enjoyed the freedom of her new age as she

could love him, in spite of different family

married them invited a blessing after toasts. The

turned 21. The more mature Josh, who lived an

backgrounds. “Josh has a huge family and is very

bride composed bouquets and a friend made a

hour away in Festus, saw something more in her.

family-oriented. I was raised by a single mom

cake topper with images of the bride and groom

“I really liked her personality. She was sweet and

and my grandma was always nearby to help us.

alongside their favorite canine.

down to earth,” he said of their texts and phone

Having a guy who was actually trustworthy was

calls before meeting.

different for me,” Tori explained.

When Tori realized she didn’t want to lose

To her surprise on July 4, 2016, when Josh proposed, Tori cried. “He had brought up marriage

has sailed smoothly since then. Eventually, he moved to Pontoon Beach to be with her.

allowed him to stay alongside Tori all day. He walked up the aisle with her and her mom, posed for pictures and danced with the bride.

after about a year of our being together, but it

“He is the most bomb-proof dog there is.”

took forever to put a ring on it,” she noted. They

Warning other couples considering it, she said,

were in St. Petersburg, Fla., a frequent destina-

“Everyone who walks in wants to touch the dog,

tion for his family. Tori, Josh and his parents

so it is really necessary to have that temperament

were searching for shells and stopped to take

to put a dog in the wedding.” The presence of

photos in a protected beach area for birds. She

Roush at the wedding ceremony and reception

was confused when his parents had phones out,

was cleared at the site, Orlando Event Center

but soon discovered it was to catch the moment

South County.

when he knelt and proposed.

Josh, their relationship took a positive turn and

Luckily, Roush’s “rock solid” temperament

The couple treasured memorable moments

“I couldn’t believe I pulled it off without

of that walk down the aisle. Tori said seeing

her finding out. Right after, she told me I could

Josh dressed up for their big occasion, instead

get another boat.” So, now Josh has a second,

of wearing painter pants and a neon-colored shirt,

larger boat – which arrived more quickly than

was unforgettable. The groom’s reaction when

the wedding.

Tori finally looked up after walking down the aisle

Tori hopes to build an animal rescue business,

affirmed his feelings: “I knew it was meant to be.”

so a full-time job and busy school schedule pursuing

They gave DJ Chris Abel, a friend from

a bachelor’s degree in business administration left

Premier Entertainment, a “phenomenal” rating.

her to anticipate a wedding after a 2018 graduation.

She said, “He controlled a few situations at our

That date changed at a bridal show.

wedding with grace and kept everything on time.

Josh won a trip to Mexico with a ticket to

He made the wedding run smoothly.”

expire within the year. “Well, I said, apparently

Not only did the wedding happen, but the honeymoon came true, too.

He may not always be sailing, but fishing and

we are planning a wedding this year,” Tori

other hobbies do lure him outdoors. Luckily, his

decided. Without leeway for detailed input,

“Mexico was amazing. I will never forget all

job as a professional drywall finisher takes him

she relied on family to help. “My mom was,

the fun we had there,” exclaimed the bride. Now,

on the road, including to Lake of the Ozarks,

thankfully, amazing. She was my secret weapon

their radar focuses on another goal to celebrate:

where he enjoys his boats.

in the process.”

Tori’s graduation in August.

ON T HE COV E R

venue scenario

Select a fitting site A year before the wedding is not too soon to

clock ringing to snag the pivotal date.

may look different to a bride and groom who

On the other hand, a cell phone is a

has always seen where the big day should happen,

short-engagement planner’s best friend. The

firm up a date that accommodates both honorees

first question should be: Are you available on

Off-peak times by month, day ,week or time

and venue as soon as possible. Prime locations

such-and-such a date? Some venues will hold a

of day may make a dream venue affordable to a

and dates, such as during busy months of May

specific date for a day or two, but it is only fair

budget not able to afford prime time. Nearby

and June, September and October, should send

to return the favor with a positive or negative

hotels, shuttle services and rental services may

a couple scurrying to settle the matter, because

response within the suggested interval.

fall into the same line.

saw the facility before they were 16.

No matter how inviting a venue’s website

A top trend locates both ceremony and

Timing can be tricky. If a location is not to

looks, take the tour if it is under serious consid-

reception in the same venue. Inquiring about

be compromised, finding an open date is the

eration. Ambience should be consistent. Seeing

transitions, particularly if segments occupy the

crucial element. A venue which does not book

a venue through the eyes of a grandparent with

same room, stimulates discussion to envision a

events more than a year ahead or only accommo-

limited navigation up steps or across hazards

convenient and smooth transition.

dates prospective weddings as a calendar year

is limited may become a deal breaker even to

Food and drink are costly variables. Find

starts may require a phone reminder or alarm

a longtime dreamer. Restroom locations are a

out who provides food. Take advantage of

everything depends on the calendar.

112

prime consideration. Parking convenience also

locate ceremony and reception sites. If the heart

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

options and samplings to see what to expect.

Depending on menu, a buffet usually costs less than a sit-down meal and provides more options for guests. Some packages include a late-evening snack, such as toasted ravioli for a taste of St. Louis, a sweet-and-savory pretzel bar or s’mores for sustenance before a DJ and guess head home. Envision where a multitiered cake, family photos, table cards, guest book and gift table will be located.

Check what beverages and decorations are provided. Ask if the couple may provide alternatives. Some venues, particularly those that cater to a rustic look, offer a storehouse of free decorative items to borrow for enhancing the day. Look at chairs and linens that will be provided.

There are many, many details to consider at a location. Some come with a planner as a guide through that portion of the event – but it is wise not to expect more help than navigating logistics at the location itself.

During planning, consistency is to be considered. Ask if the person providing venue information is the same resource throughout the process and if that person is present for guidance on the day itself. If the proposed team does not provide a smooth fit, ask if there is someone else or consider moving on before a questionable situation becomes untenable.

Chair covers, uplighting and one-stop shopping appeal to today’s bride and groom. It is important to see in person exactly what will be provided, then include the information in a contract between both parties.

The contract is an all-important document that puts what is discussed onto paper so everyone knows what to expect. It is the only reliable backup resource, should one side be disappointed by the other’s performance.

Prices in the document are what should be paid and items specified should be delivered according to the blueprint. Extenuating circumstances should be spelled out, too.

Search here for your venue location.

StLouisBestBridal.com  Bridal Marketplace

Shop for venues with list of values First comes the budget. Then, it is time to find a fitting backdrops for details.

Colin Cowie, event planning guru, compiled a “foolproof ” checklist (http://bit.ly/Cowieblog-checklist-venue) for couples to use when they shop for venues. After all, he noted, what does every great wedding planner binder need to begin? A fabulous place for sharing vows and celebrating! If a venue does not come readily to mind, don’t fret. Start checking off some of these priorities before locking it down. He offers ideas (www.colincowie.com) for planning a wedding location from a(rt museum) to z(oo). ✤ Learn about any additional charges that may apply to venue fees.

Taxes?

Cleaning fee?

Security?

Insurance? ✤ Select a variety of wedding dates you would consider.

The more flexible, the better. ✤ Draw up a guest list.

Make sure the venue capacity works for both your budget and guest count. ✤ Inquire about tenting and rainy-day options.

Is your locale of choice prone to unpredictable weather? ✤ Research the venue’s existing décor.

Does it match your overall wedding theme? ✤ Consider holidays that may clog up nearby hotels.

Guests will need accommodations. ✤ Consider the season.

Are your preferred flowers in-season? ✤ Find out which venues offer day-of coordination.

You may need a helping hand for your big day. ✤ Make sure you know the load-in and load-out rules and restrictions.

Is there an event the day before your wedding date? ✤ Discuss with your venue any sound curfews that may apply.

Where and when is music allowed? Only inside? Only outside? Both? ✤ Verify if the venue is exclusive to specific vendors.

Can you bring in food and beverage vendors of your own? ✤ Ask if catering is included.

If yes, check out what their menu offers. Make sure they have options to satisfy all your guests. ✤ Double-check the policy on overtime rates.

Don’t forget to add this to your “what-if ” budget. ✤ Make sure you know whether or not there are bathrooms on-site.

If not, you may have to rent a temporary restroom. ✤ Discuss the on-site parking situation.

Lack of venue parking may require you to shuttle guests. ✤ Learn about options for a bridal suite.

Pre-ceremony comfort is everything for a cool and collected bride, whenever the month and season. ✤ Visit the venue.

Pictures may be worth a thousand words, but seeing is believing.

FALL & WINTER 2017

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

113

selection

spacious

convenient

The op�ons you want for wedding packages, audio visual, up-ligh�ng, staging, decor & more

16,200 sq. �. Grand Ballroom & 6,025 sq. �. Junior Ballroom plus pre-func�on space

Full service from dinner to decor, a�ached to Embassy Suites Hotel & easily accessible to major highways

LET’S START PLANNING

636.669.3000

StCharlesConven�onCenter.com/weddings @StCharlesConven One Conven�on Center Plaza Saint Charles, Missouri 63303

venues

PA R T Y PL A N S

ST. LOUIS' BEST BRIDAL

RECEPTION DIRECTORY

FORM LIST OF

TOP 10 SITES

FROM 200 LOCATIONS SEPARATE SELECTIONS FOR MISSOURI & ILLINOIS

What you’ll find by location: name, address and phone number, the number of guests accommodated, room rental fee, outdoor party area, on-site catering availability, on-site ceremony listing, lodging preferences, plus loads of additional information in the magazine and beyond.

DECIDE WHAT IS IMPORTANT More detailed information on various reception sites nestles conveniently within these listings. Look beyond the obvious for an available location. A special note: St. Louis’ Best Bridal businesses are indicated with heart-framed page numbers for more information.

DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE Timing is everything. Once this useful directory narrows reception site choices for you, make that initial call. Staff members at the facilities can answer questions and assist with wedding-day plans. Early arrangements ease the task, so you can sit back and expect the best resources to complement your special day.

CREATE A PERFECT WEDDING RECEPTION What now? Turn the page. Match your dreams to what local reception sites provide. Use this helpful resource to help you make all the arrangements.

FALL & WINTER 2017

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

115

The Caramel Room at Bissinger’s The Caramel Room at Bissinger’s blends equal amounts of chic and sweet at St. Louis’ most sought after and elite wedding venue. Beaming natural light, hardwood floors, an outdoor terrace featuring river and skyline views, and chocolate-infused culinary adventures. Encompassed within a working chocolate factory, guests will be delighted by the elegant service standards and historic building which will give weddings of any size the feeling of intimacy and magic.

Easily accessed from all directions, The Caramel Room at Bissinger’s features secured and complimentary parking, custom charger plate, and stunning seating which matches any color palette. Offering amenities like no other venue in the region, The Caramel Room’s award-winning team stands ready to create a day you will never forget.

THE CARAMEL ROOM

{ 1600 North Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102 ✤ (314) 615-2480 ✤ www.caramelroom.com }

RECEPTION LOCATIONS FOLLOW THE HEARTS FOR MORE INFORMATION. ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

PHONE NUMBER

612North Event Space 612 North 2nd Street, St. Louis

314 899-0612

SEATED CAPACITY

ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

225+

N

N

Y

CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE

Y

PAGE NUMBER

N

9th Street Abbey 314 621-9598 250 Y Y Y Y Y 1808 S 9th St., St. Louis All Occasions Banquet Centers 111 Compass Point Drive, St. Charles Ameristar Casino Resort Spa One Ameristar Blvd., St. Charles

Andre’s Banquet Facilities - South 4254 Telegraph Road, St. Louis

116

636-946-1011 300 N N Y Y Y 636-940-4300 300+ N Y Y Y Y 314-894-2622 700

N

N

Y

Y

N

Andre’s Banquet Facilities - West 211 S. Old Hwy. 141, Fent

314-691-5650 325

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Andre’s @ Sunset Hills Golf Course 13366 West Watson Road, Sunset Hills

314-448-2414 250

-

N

Y

Y

N

Andre’s @ Carriage House @ Fox Run Golf Club 636-253-0867 230 1 Putt Lane, Eureka

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Audubon’s of St. Genevieve 9 North Main St., Sainte Genevie

573-883-2479 Call Y N Y Y Y 96

Ballwin Golf Club 333 Holloway Road, Ballwin

636-207-2355 220 Y Y N N N

Banquet Center of the Little Hills 111 Transit St., St. Charles

314-894-2622 300 Y Y Y Y Y

Barnett on Washington 3207 Washington Ave., St. Louis

844-462-2763 200

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Bear Creek Golf Club 158 Bear Creek Drive, Wentzville

636-332-5018 200

N

Y

Y

Y

N

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Your dream wedding isn’t a dream. It’s here.

Your wedding experience will be a dream come true at the Saint Charles Convention Center.

Our elegant venue can accommodate from 50 to 2,000 wedding guests with its flexible event space including the 16,200 square foot Grand Ballroom, 6,025 square foot Junior Ballroom, and 27,600 square foot Hall.

Planning is a breeze when you take advantage of our in-house services including catering, audio visual, staging, décor, a dedicated event management team, and expert wedding coordinator. You’ll love our customizable wedding packages allowing you to create a menu and event unique to you.

Your guests will appreciate the connected 296 suite, Embassy Suites Hotel, free St. Charles Trolley, and easy travel; we’re located right off Highway 70 and just 10 minutes from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport.

SAINT CHARLES CONVENTION CENTER

{ 1 Convention Center Plaza, St. Charles, MO 63303 ✤ (636) 669-3000 ✤ www.stcharlesconventioncenter.com }

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

SEATED CAPACITY

ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE

Boo Cat Club 812 N. Union St., St. Louis

314-224-5521 450 Y N N Y N

Busch Stadium Special Events 700 Clark St., St. Louis

314-345-9630 400+

Big Cedar Lodge 190 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale

ASK

PHONE NUMBER

Y

Y

Y

Y

PAGE NUMBER

N

1-800-225-6343 500 Y Y Y Y Y

Bogey Hills Country Club 1120 Country Club Road, St. Charles

636-946-6250

Butterfly House 15193 Olive Blvd, Chesterfield

636-530-0076 100

475

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Y

N

8

Does the venue allow only a single caterer? Does a preferred caterer list close the door to someone you prefer?

Chatillon-DeMenil 3352 DeMenil Place, St. Louis

314-771-5828

250

N

Y

Y

Y

N

Camden On The Lake 21124 Cave Road, Lake Ozarks

573-365-5620

300+

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Cave Vineyard 5856 Christy Blvd., St. Genevieve

314-616-1098 250

N

Y

Y

Y

N

The Caramel Room at Bissinger’s 1600 North Broadway, St. Louis

314-615-2480

N

Y

Y

Y

N

The Carriage House at DeMenil 1 Putt Lane, Eureka

314-771-5828 180

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

The Carriage House at Fox Run 1 Putt Lane, Eureka

314-894-2180 250

N

Y

Y

Y

N

Casa Loma Ballroom 3354 Iowa Ave., St. Louis

314-650-2462 850

Y

N

Y

Y

N

The Cedars, 939 Lebanon Drive, St. Louis

314-241-8248 500

Y

N

Y

N

N

Cedar Lake Cellars 11008 Schreckengast Road, Wright City

636-745-9500 400+

Y

Y

Y

Y N

300

FALL & WINTER 2017

41

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

117

Hermann Hill Chapel and Riverbluff Weddings Hermann Hill Weddings is positioned high atop a bluff overlooking the Missouri River in Hermann wine country. Aside from stunning photography opportunities, we offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony options. Couples can choose from our Chapel, Gazebo or River Bluff location.

All views feature gorgeous angles of the river and countryside. Our reception Pavilion provides an outdoor feel with its wall of windows. Guests will enjoy their dinner while watching the sunset in the comfort of a climate controlled atmosphere. Other picturesque locations include our waterfall garden, woodland personal chapel and celebration point. At dusk, the sunset is replaced by torches of light that illuminate walkways, inviting guests to further enjoy the evening.

All packages include: two wedding coordinators, an officiant, planning sessions, a private Chef, a signature Champagne Toast, your honeymoon night’s stay in a River Bluff cottage and many additional perks.

HERMANN HILL WEDDINGS

{ 165 Highway 100 East, Hermann, MO 65041 ✤ (314) 550-4759 ✤ www.hermannhill.com }

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

ASK

118

PHONE NUMBER

SEATED CAPACITY

ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE

PAGE NUMBER

Cedar Creek Resort 1401 Olive Road, New Haven

855-778-7222 400+ - Y Y Y Y

Chandler Hill Vineyards 596 Defiance Road, Defiance

636-798-2675 250

Charlie F. Knight Center, Washington U. One Brookings Dr., St. Louis

314-935-4668 165 Y Y Y Y Y

The Chase Park Plaza, 212 N. Kingshighway, St. Louis

314-633-3000 300 Y Y Y Y Y

The Christy Banquet Centers, 5856 Christy Blvd., St. Louis

314-287-5263 350

Y

N

Y

N

N

98

The Christy Banquet Centers, 9000 Veterans Memorial Parkway, O’Fallon

636-266-4123 500

Y

N

Y

N

N

98

City Museum 701 North 15th St., St. Louis

314-231-2487 300 Y Y N N N

Clayton Plaza Hotel 7750 Carondelet Ave., Clayton

314-726-5400 600 Y N Y N Y

The Conservatory 1001 South Main St., St. Charles

636-947-0414

Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis 3750 Washington Blvd., St. Louis

314-535-4660 225

100

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

What items may a family bring in – candy bar, cookies, pies, cakes, frozen custard?

Crowne Plaza Hotel 200 N. Fourth St., St. Louis

314-621-8200 350 Y Y Y Y Y

Cyranno’s 603 E. Lockwood, Webster Groves

314-963-3232 50

DoubleTree Hotel & Conference Ctr. 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield

314-434-0100 450 N Y Y Y Y

DoubleTree Hotel - Wesport 1973 Craigshire Road, St. Louis

314-212-2110 600 N Y Y Y Y

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Y

N

Y

Y

N

44

Rose of the Hill by Favazza’s showcases Italian hospitality For a classic taste of Italy in St. Louis, Favazza’s Restaurant romances brides and grooms and their guests at its elegant restaurant and full-service Rose of the Hill banquet facility, each located at the gateway to this historic section of the city. After the proposal, make wedding plans at an intimate table on the restaurant’s garden patio. Greet wedding party and out-of-towners after the wedding rehearsal on that same patio or in one of five private rooms. From near or far, guests will delight in the family food and personal service fine-tuned by decades of experience.

On the big day, the single-event facility, named “Rose” for the favorite flower of the Favazza family’s mother, becomes the backdrop for as many as 350 people. Often called “popular gourmet,” fabulous food like Sicilian Chicken, Steak Mudega and Italian Roast Beef is served sit-down family style or buffet. Specialty pasta dishes and fresh vegetables appeal to all tastes.

A 35-foot dark wood bar separate from the dining and dancing area offers hospitality. Staff expects to provide real china, linens, glasses and silverware, as well as decorate and check coats.

After the bride and groom ceremonially cut the cake, it is sliced and served. The head table enjoys a champagne toast. A private lot provides free parking and convenient access.

ROSE OF THE HILL BY FAVAZZA’S

{ 2300 Edwards, St. Louis, MO 63110 ✤ (314) 772-6003 ✤ www.roseofthehill.com }

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

PHONE NUMBER

SEATED CAPACITY

ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE

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Drury Inn Union Station - St, Louis 201 South 20th St., St. Louis

314-231-3900 32 Y N Y Y Y

Drury Inn & Suites Convention Ctr. - St. Louis 711 N. Broadway, St. Louis

314-231-8100 80 Y N Y Y Y

Drury Inn & Suites Forest Park - St. Louis 2111 Sulpher Ave., St. Louis

314-646-0770 150 N Y Y Y Y

Drury Plaza Hotel - Chesterfield 355 Chesterfield Center East, St. Louis

636-532-3300 160

Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch 2 South Fourth St., St. Louis

314-231-3003 280 Y N Y Y Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Embassy Suites Hotel & Spa 636-946-5544 1,600 Y N Y N Y Two Convention Center Plaza, St. Charles Embassy Suites Hotel - St. Louis Airport 11237 Lone Eagle Drive, Bridgeton

314-739-8929 1,035 Y N Y N Y

The Falls Reception & Conference Center, 300 Admiral Wienel Blvd., Columbia

618-281-3255 550 Y Y Y Y Y

Forest Hills Country Club 36 Forest Club Dr., Chesterfield

636-227-5030 200

Foundry Art Centre 520 N. Main St., St. Charles

636-225-0270 400 Y N N Y N

Fox Theatre 527 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis

314-534-1111 370 Y Y Y Y Y

The Franklin Room, 816 Allen Ave., St. Louis

314-664-7706 300

N

N

Y

Y

N

Genesis Banquet & Catering 2651 Telegraph Road, St. Louis

314-894-7073 400

Y

N

-

N

N

Grand Hall on Chouteau 2319 Choteau Av., St. Louis

314-427-6771 300+

N

Y

Y

Y

N

Grand Opera House Banquet Ctr. 311 N Main St., St. Charles

314-406-3783 200

N

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

FALL & WINTER 2017

N

13

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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Catering has never tasted so pretty 23 City Blocks Catering’s Executive Chef Nicholas Miller crafts from the freshest local ingredients, presenting plates with artistic flair. The events team assures that you and your guests are impressed at every bite. 23 City Blocks Catering classifies food as a crucial element of the human experience, so much more than simple sustenance.

Serving clients ranging from 20 to 300+, 23 City Blocks Catering is the preferred caterer to Stone House of St. Charles, Silver Oaks Chateau, Boo Cat Club, Majorette, Wild Carrot, Jefferson Underground, The Magic House, The Muny’s Culver Pavilion, St. Louis City Hall Rotunda, and Main Street Abbey.

23 CITY BLOCKS

{

1600 North Broadway Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63102 ✤ (314) 615-2480 ✤ www.23cityblocks.com.com

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

ASK

PHONE NUMBER

ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE

PAGE NUMBER

Heart of St. Charles 1410 S. 5th St., St. Charles

636-947-8270 400 - N Y Y Y

Hermann Hill Weddings 165 E Highway 100, Hermann

314-550-4759 250 Y Y Y Y Y 11

Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark 1 S. Broadway St., St. Louis

314-421-1776 175+ Y N Y Y Y

Hilton St. Louis Airport 10330 Natural Bridge Rd., St. Louis

314-824-1665 600 N N Y Y Y

Hilton St. Louis Frontenac 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Frontenac

314-993-1100 500 N N Y Y Y 32

Holiday Inn — St. Louis Airport 4505 Woodson Rd., Bridgeton

314-427-4700 200 Y N Y Y Y

Holiday Inn Airport West — Earth City 3400 Rider Trail South, St. Louis

314-291-6800 300 Y N Y Y Y

Holiday Inn — Forest Park 5915 Wilson Ave., St. Louis

314-645-0700 80

Y

N

Y

Y

N

How does a location switch from ceremony to reception? Where do guests go and what can they do? Is this a regular practice?

Holiday Inn Select - St. Louis Downtown 811 N. 9th St., St. Louis

314-421-4000 400 Y N Y Y Y

Holiday Inn — South County Ctr. 6921 S. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis

314-892-3600 320 N N Y Y Y

Holiday Inn St. Louis Airport - Riverport 10709 Watson Road, St. Louis

120

SEATED CAPACITY

}

1-800-652-3705 450 Y N Y Y Y

Holiday Inn Southwest - Route 66 10709 Watson Road, St. Louis

314-298-3400 400 N N Y Y Y

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch 315 Chestnut St., St. Louis

314-342-4655 220 Y Y Y Y Y 28

Innsbrook Resort & Conference Center 1 Aspen Circle, Innsbrook

636-928-3366 200 Y Y Y Y Y

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Let us make your wedding dreams a reality!

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch offers monumental service and premier wedding venues that feature the best views of the Gateway Arch. Two large ballrooms are perfect for lavish affairs while our Park View room is perfect for intimate events, with French windows overlooking the Gateway Arch. Looking for a unique view for your wedding guests? Our Gateway East Ballroom and Terrace features an indoor/outdoor space with a spectacular view of the Gateway Arch, including a light up dance floor.

Our wedding event manager will ensure that all of the big decisions have been made and all of the little details are attended to. The hotel’s culinary team and in-house pastry chef are ready to create a custom menu and cake for your big day. Your guests will appreciate the convenience of our downtown location and our recently renovated luxury accommodations.

Whether you are arranging an intimate bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, engagement party, wedding room block, ceremony or reception for 10 to 1,000, our dedicated staff is ready to execute your special day flawlessly. To take a tour of our wedding venues or for more information, contact us today.

HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS AT THE ARCH

{ 315 Chestnut Street, St. Louis, MO

63102 ✤ (314) 342-4655 ✤ regan.smith@hyatt.com ✤ hyattregencystlouis.com

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

Jewel Box Forest Park, St. Louis

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PHONE NUMBER

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}

PAGE NUMBER

314-531-0080 250 Y Y N Y N

Kemp Auto Museum 636-537-1718 800 16955 Chesterfield Airport Rd., Chesterfield

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Kenrick Banquet Hall 4324 Weber Rd., St. Louis

314-652-2837 350

Y

N

Y

N

N

Kuhs Estate & Farm 13080 Spanish Pond Rd., Spanish Lake

314-226-0709 400+

N

Y

Y

Y

N

Is the facility the only provider of beverages, particularly alcohol?

Landings at Spirit Golf Club 180 N. Eatherton Rd., Chesterfield

636-728-1927 400 - Y Y Y Y

Le Chateau 10405 Clayton Rd., St. Louis

314-991-6700 250 Y N Y Y Y

Lemp Grand Hall 1817 Cherokee St., St. Louis

314-664-8024 300 Y Y Y Y Y

Lemp Mansion 3322 DeMenil Place, St. Louis

314-664-8024 260 Y Y Y Y Y

LiUNA Event Center 4532 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Sunset Hills

314-226-1010 350

The Lodge of Des Peres, 1050 Des Peres Rd., Des Peres

314-835-6150 165 N N N Y N

Lodge at Grant’s Trail 4398 Hoffmeister Ave., St. Louis

314-638-3340 150 N Y Y Y Y 86

Lumen Private Event Space 2201 Locust St., St. Louis

314-615-2480 180

Lumiére Place Casino and Hotel 999 N. 2nd St., St. Louis

314-881-7777 350 Y N Y Y Y

Mad Art Gallery 2727 S. 12th St., St. Louis

314-771-8230 230

N

N

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

FALL & WINTER 2017

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1

N

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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Orlando’s creates lifetime of memories Since 1967, Orlando’s, a third-generation family owned business, has been fulfilling a lifetime of memories for brides and grooms. We make the whole process as simple and stress free for you and your future spouse with our two conveniently located Orlando’s Event and Conference Centers – South St. Louis County and Maryland Heights – catering, and event planning support.

Our two locations are modern and up-to-date with elegant ballrooms to reflect the sophisticated and distinctive tastes that you have for your special day. Your guests will be delighted with the amenities and tasteful décor, and our professional event planning team will work with you to make the most of your budget so your day is unique and memorable.

We invite you to visit and tour each of our locations to learn why Orlando’s is the number one wedding caterer with the best wedding reception locations throughout St. Louis City; St. Louis, St. Charles, Franklin and Jefferson Counties; and the Metro East.

As we celebrate our 50th anniversary this year, and look toward the future, our focus remains the same…to help you plan a wedding day that is unique, special, and reflective of your personality.

ORLANDO’S EVENT CENTERS, CATERING & SPECIAL EVENTS

{

South County (314) 638-6660 ✤ Maryland Heights (314) 453-9000 ✤ www.orlandogardens.com

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

ASK

122

PHONE NUMBER

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}

CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE

The Magic House 516 South Kirkwood, St. Louis

314-822-8900 500

Magic Chef Mansion 3400 Russell. St. Louis

314-664-3400 150 Y N N Y N

The Mahler Ballroom 4915 Washington Ave. St. Louis

314-361-4411 150 Y Y N Y N

Marriott St. Louis Airport 10700 Pear Tree Drive, St. Louis

314-423-9700 500 N Y Y Y Y

Marriott St. Louis West 660 Maryville Center Drive, St. Louis

314-878-2747 1,045 Y Y Y Y Y

Y

N

N

Y

PAGE NUMBER

Y

Are times and locations available for pictures or must they be staged separately outside contracted hours or must they be staged for a designated location at a separate time??

Missouri Athletic Club 405 Washington Avenue, St. Louis

314-539-4470 400 Y N Y Y Y

Missouri Bluffs Golf Club #18 Research Park Circle, St. Charles

636-939-6494 150

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Missouri Botanical Garden 4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis

314-577-5100 300

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Missouri History Museum 5700 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis

314-454-3154 2500

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Mount Pleasant Estate 5634 High St., Augusta

636-482-9463 225

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

New Towne at St. Charles 3331-2 Rue Royale, St. Charles

636-288-7332 300

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Old Hickory Golf Club #1 Dye Club Dr., St. Peters

636-477-8960 550

N

Y

Y

Y

N

Old Stone Chapel 1106 S. Main St., St. Charles

636-947-8270 200 - Y Y Y Y

Oliva ... On The Hill 4915 Daggett Ave., St. Louis

314-961-7588 100

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

39

Your special day got a multi-million dollar facelift Discover a distinctive, St. Louis wedding experience at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel thanks to a recent multi‐million dollar renovation that transformed the landmark property’s 37,000 square feet of premium event space. First-floor ballrooms are infused with the creative energy of classic St. Louis jazz and blues creating unique memorable experiences. Meanwhile, décor for the ballrooms on the upper floors is inspired by views of nearby jets soaring into the endless sky. The new spaces offer casual, flexible seating and varying levels of privacy, encouraging social interaction while fusing local flavors to create an energized atmosphere. Perfect for that one-of-a-kind intimate family gathering and large enough to comfortably accommodate up to 600 wedding guests.

This luxury hotel offers a stress‐free stay with on‐site parking and complimentary airport shuttle service. Guest rooms showcase luxurious bedding, ergonomic desks and flat‐screen TVs. Guests are invited to unwind in the property’s fully‐equipped fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools. The hotel’s on-site restaurant features the best local and sustainable St. Louis ingredients in dishes that take a modern approach to American cuisine. The Renaissance St. Louis Airport presents an unforgettable setting.

RENAISSANCE ST. LOUIS AIRPORT HOTEL

{ 9801 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis, MO 63134 ✤ (314) 429‐1100 ✤ www.renaissancehotel.com/STLSA }

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

Orlando´s Event Centers, South County 4300 Hoffmeister, St. Louis

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PHONE NUMBER

SEATED CAPACITY

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CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE

PAGE NUMBER

314-638-6660 1000

N

N

Y

Y

N

86

Orlandoʹs Event Centers, Maryland Heights 314-453-9000 600 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza

N

N

Y

Y

N

86

Palladium St. Louis 1400 Park Place, St. Louis

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

314-799-8886 700

Is there a Plan B in bad weather? When is a decision made? If no tent or indoor area is provided, is a source recommended?

Peabody Opera House 1400 Market St., St. Louis

314-622-2500 400

Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Union Station 2211 Market St., St. Louis

314-241-3200 150 N N Y Y Y

Pevely Farms Golf Club 400 Lewis Rd, Eureka

636-938-7000 250

Purser Center at Logan College, The 1851 Schoettler Rd., Chesterfield

Y Y N Y N 636-230-1881 400

Randall Gallery 999 North 13th St., St. Louis

314-231-4808 310

Marriott St. Louis Grand Hotel 800 Washington Ave., St. Louis

314-621-9600 500 Y N Y Y Y

Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel 9801 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis

314-429-1100 650 Y N Y Y Y 19

The Ritz-Carlton St. Louis, 100 Corondolet Plaza, St. Louis

314-863-6300 700 Y N Y Y Y

The Vineyards at Riverbend Chapel 4247 Old Hwy. 100, Washington

636-390-8600 300

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Rose Of The Hill by Favazza’s 2300 Edwards St., St. Louis

314-772-6003 350

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Ruth Chris Steak House 1 North Brentwood Blvd., Clayton

314-783-9900 60

N

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Y

N

Y

FALL & WINTER 2017

N

17

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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Old school ambience in historic Soulard Nestled on a quiet street in one of St. Louis oldest neighborhoods, The Franklin Room is a mix of old world charm and city vibes. Built in 1905, it boasts 30’ ceilings, 10’ windows and the original maple wood floors.

With an attentive service staff that’s all about you, exceptional cuisine prepared fresh in house, and a wealth of support services and vendors, you have everything under one roof to get the party started.

Add a bit of romance and this beautiful, vintage ballroom is the perfect place to celebrate your wedding day.

THE FRANKLIN ROOM

{

816 Allen Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104 ✤ In Historic Soulard ✤ (314) 664-7706 ✤ www.thefranklinroom.net

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

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PHONE NUMBER

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Saint Charles Convention Center One Convention Plaza, St. Charles

636-669-3000 1,000 Y N Y Y Y IFC 120

St. Louis Art Museum 1 Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis

314-655-5387 250

St. Louis Artists’ Guild and Gallery 12 N. Jackson, Clayton

314-727-6266 110 Y Y N Y N

Y

N

Y

N

N

St. Louis Science Center 5050 Oakland Ave., St. Louis

314-533-8179 330

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

St. Louis University Events 221 North Grand Blvd., St. Louis

314-977-6338 500

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Y

N

What is the distance between venues or to guests’ lodging?

St. Louis Zoo 1 Government Drive, St. Louis Savoy Banquet Center 119 S. Florissant Rd., Ferguson

314-646-4855 500 314-521-4500 250

Seven Gables Inn 26 N. Meramec Ave., Clayton

314-863-8400 175 - Y Y Y Y

The Sheldon Concert Hall & Ballroom, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis

314-533-9900 500

Sheraton Clayton Plaza Hotel 7730 Bonhomme Ave., Clayton

314-863-0400 250 Y Y Y Y Y

St. Louis City Center Hotels & Suites 400 S. 14th St., St. Louis

314-231-5007 450 Y N Y Y Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Sheraton Westport — Chalet Hotel St. Louis 314-878-1500 800 N N Y Y Y 191 Westport Plaza, St. Louis

124

}

Sheraton Westport Plaza Hotel St. Louis 900 Westport Plaza, St. Louis

314-878-1500 300 N N Y Y Y

Silver Oaks Chateau 1168 Hwy 100, Pacific

314-280-8890 250 Y Y Y Y Y

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

27

Lumen Private Event Space Lumen Private Event Space’s modern style, premium service and contemporary flair just stepped up the game! New silver Chiavari chairs, a stainless steel bar with stunning chandeliers and updated hardwood floors are just the beginning. No worries though, guests still awe over floor-to-ceiling windows and a state-of-the–art LED lighting system. Located in the Packard Lofts building, Lumen can host weddings for up to 200 guests with space for ceremonies as well.

Lumen’s timeless-designed event space evokes the excitement weddings deserve.

Easy to access from any direction and skirting the downtown St. Louis area, it provides a destination that astounds guests with style and spirit which translates into memorial photos that will become classic opportunities to share the occasion again and again in years to come. Executive Chef Nicholas Miller, whose forte is farm-to-table and seasonal ingredients will fulfill every culinary desire.

LUMEN PRIVATE EVENT SPACE

{ 2201 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63103 ✤ Located in the Packard Lofts ✤ (314) 615-2480 ✤ www.lumenstl.com } ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

PHONE NUMBER

SEATED CAPACITY

ROOM OUTDOOR ON-SITE RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

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Soulard Preservation Hall 1921 N Ninth St., St. Louis

314-241-8181 150 Y Y N Y N

Starlight Roof at the Chase 212 N. Kingshighway, St. Louis

314-633-3050 500 Y Y Y Y Y

Inns of St. Albans, The 3519 St. Albans Road, St. Albans

636-458-0131 140 Y Y Y Y Y

Sunset 44 Bistro 118 W. Adams Ave., Kirkwood

314-965-6644 50

Y

N

Y

N

N

Sunset Hills Banquet Center 13366 West Watson Road, Sappington

314-843-7811 250

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Third Degree Glass Factory 5200 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis,

636-367-4527 250

N

Y

Y

Y

N

University of Missouri - St. Louis I-70 & I-170, St. Louis

314-516-4324 Call

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Vance Vineyards & Winery 1522 Madison 212, Fredricktown

573-783-8800 100

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Villa Antonio Winery 3660 Linhorst, Hillsboro

636-475-5008 300

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Westin St. Louis, The 811 Spruce St., St. Louis

314-621-2000 275 N N Y Y Y

Wingheaven Country Club 7777 Wingheaven Blvd., O'Fallon

636-561-9464 250

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Whitmoor Country Club 1100 Whitmoor Drive, St. Charles

800-927-9622 500

Y

N

Y

N

N

PAGE NUMBER

Whittemore House at Washington University 314-935-5276 110 Y Y N Y N 6440 Forsyth, St. Louis Windows On Washington 1601 Washington Ave., St. Louis

314-241-5555 350

Worlds Fair Pavilion 1904 Concourse Drive, St. Louis

314-289-5344 450 Y Y N Y N

Y

N

Y

Y

FALL & WINTER 2017

N

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

125

PREPARE FOR THE BIG DAY

Before asking them to wait on you hand and foot ...

SCHEDULE A BRIDAL PARTY FOR 5 OR MORE AND THE BRIDE & GROOM RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY SPA SERVICE skincare | nailcare | massage | body treatment | waxing

Restrictions may apply. ©2018 Wellbridge

*

THE SPA IS OPEN TO NON-MEMBER GUESTS FIND US ON FACEBOOK

CLAYTON 7620 Forsyth Blvd. | 314.746.1501 WellbridgeAthleticClubandSpa.com

L OV E S TORY

Rebecca & Andrew M AY 2 0 , 2 0 1 7

‘She is very colorful and I am supportive.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TROTTER PHOTO

FALL & WINTER 2017

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

127

‘He made me laugh when I needed it.’

People like Rebecca Rhoten and Andrew

terrible storm in spring of 2013.

“Andrew was playing in a band at a church

Batchelor were meant to ease on down a Yellow Brick Road on their wedding day.

service and a tornado was coming toward us.

became real. I saw all those faces and Andrew was at the end of the aisle.”

Rebecca is from Cahokia and Andrew grew

Sirens were going off,” Rebecca recalled about

The couple involved ministers from their fam-

up in Dupo. Having known each other all their

their plight amid Illinois cornfields. “He left all

ilies at Turning Point Worship Center in Cahokia,

lives, they would seem bound to follow the same

his equipment – amps and bass – and shoved me

the church where she grew up. Rebecca’s uncle

paths. However, a radar blip held them back

into the basement of a house across the street.”

witnessed self-written vows; the groom said his

until Andrew finished high school. She was five

She knew he would take care of her. Recognizing

and the bride sang hers. Andrew’s brother deliv-

years older.

that moment, Rebecca said, “I knew I wanted to

ered the message and his father gave them a bless-

stay with him forever.”

ing. As predicted, she cried when her dad sang a

While Andrew was “very sweet,” their ages

As marital questions swirled, they decided in

concerned Rebecca. He discounted it. “As you get older, age differences don’t matter so much.

spring 2016 to become engaged.

he noted.

“I wasn’t dating anyone else, but I was still

song he composed for her at age 4 and rewrote for the wedding. They combined soil from each of

“When his parents were going on a cruise that

their childhood homes around a 6-foot tree they

year, they suggested they could book one for the

have since planted at their home in Mehlville.

honeymoon,” she said of a not-so-subtle hint.

Relatives hung blessing wishes on it.

She was already stable and sure of herself,”

fighting it,” she said. “He was fun and funny. He

Before her June birthday, Andrew directed

Andrew replayed the ceremony’s vows and

made me laugh when I needed it. We now claim

Rebecca to Forest Park, site of their first date.

music as favorite memories. The bride took a

He directed a walk down Art Hill, in spite of

selfie at the moment of their first married kiss.

her reluctance after recent rains, so a cousin sta-

The sun unexpectedly shone on their church

tioned in nearby shrubbery would capture the

exit. Quick photos where they were engaged fol-

big moment with the Art Museum as backdrop.

lowed. At Apostolic Worship Center in Dupo,

Rebecca allowed them a year and a day to

the reception site where Rebecca works and

implement a “totally unique” wedding. “I want-

they attend, they strung lanterns and lights – 30

ed a wedding with things people had never seen

strands by Andrew’s count – across black cur-

before and I wanted it to be ‘us.’ Everything would

tains. Colors exploded in silk bouquets and she

be fun and whimsical and funny and colorful.”

arranged them in flowers and centerpieces.

Andrew agreed to the wedding plan, full of

A popcorn bar awaited 100 guests, who

fun and meaning. “She is very colorful and I am

highlighted favorite passages in a Bible the new-

supportive,” he said appreciatively.

lyweds now keep for their family. Guests played

So, that is how the wedding party came to

games set on every table and took home photo-

walk, to the tune of “Marry Me” by Train, down

booth keepsakes. Colors popped again on a cake

their very own 40-foot yellow brick road sten-

with gum paste flowers hiding flavors of red vel-

ciled and painted brick-by-brick by Rebecca.

vet, strawberries and bananas. Food was from

Colors in six bright hues were tempered with

Panda’s Express, Rebecca’s favorite. They bagged

black. The groom’s socks and boutonniere reflect-

Candy Skittles as “rainbow seeds” to take home.

ed the rainbow. Rebecca’s new, vintage-style

Rebecca tossed a breakaway bouquet, made with

our first date in September 2011 as a picnic in

gown was colored champagne. She wore a veil

a loose ribbon, to share flowers with more guests.

Forest Park with my dog, Dante, a chihuahua

for the church and a dramatic feathers-on-bow

with an attitude toward French fries.”

fascinator for the reception. She wore the sap-

Among his other jobs, the pastor’s son ran a business for four years. With other jobs, his col-

phire ring of her grandmother, too ill to attend, “so she got to be there anyway.”

know each other. He now pursues an IT career.

It wasn’t Kansas, but they were caught in a

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

They left the next morning on the Caribbean cruise his parents had reserved for them.

Rebecca and Andrew counted their days in laughter, not years, and Andrew spoke of the

Rebecca vividly recalled a moment when

happiness they share. “She is a huge supporter

she enter to the tune, “Somewhere over the

of me and always has something positive to make

Rainbow,” playing. “When those big double

me happy. She always is thinking of me.”

lected experiences kept building as they got to

128

doors opened and I heard the music swelling, it

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

E S SE N T I A L S

bridal shows

RIDAL SHO

The ‘best’ vendors

Everything you need Even returnees find those one, two or a few

Best Bridal, your unique celebration comes

special elements evading them. Stay alert for

In your hands is another impressive

together. Preparing for it should not be a

items that will make your wedding fun and

resource: St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine.

struggle as the many ideas and details fit

personal, plus surprises that sprout along

Future brides, no matter the planning stage,

together into your dream wedding.

with celebrating a wedding-to-be.

find fun and inspiration on its colorful pages

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL OPENS DOOR TO BRIDAL SHOWS, MAGAZINES, IDEAS AND FUN FOR CREATING A WEDDING THAT MATCHES YOU!

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basics, tips and questions to ask.

With the helping hand of St. Louis’

The spirit is contagious!

One soon-to-be bride, walking into

Resources of gowns, men’s formal wear,

a show with her future husband, wore

cakes, hairstylists, musicians, limousines,

an engagement ring he put on her hand

DJs, florists and pampering planners for the

that very morning. A model at another

whole event or just the big day. Compact,

Celebration received an engagement ring

detailed guides help create a perfect wedding

of her own when the man of her dreams

from beginning to end. The magazine also

disarmed her with a loving speech while she

is available on local magazine racks.

wore a beautiful gown for a would-be bride.

Attendees cheered when she agreed to say “I do” and share their Love Story forever.

Not only does each engaged woman wear a sparkling smile by gathering ideas galore,

Attendees of St. Louis’ Best Bridal

but she also carries away FREE resources

Celebrations have said that anyone planning

to help focus on what is important to the

a wedding in the St. Louis metro area cannot

couple planning to wed.

afford to pass up these great opportunities,

A handy St. Louis’ Best Bridal Planner

whether the bridal list is getting under way

is free at shows or when a couple signs up

or needs only a few spaces filled.

at www.stlouisbestbridal.com.

With a different show every time, myriad

Sized to carry on bridal adventures, it

local resources await both bride and groom.

provides useful overviews of typical wedding

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

and keep it convenient to reference.

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

OUR NEXT BRIDAL SHOW Sunday, Jaunuary 20

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL CELEBRATION

Saint Charles Convention Center

Visit us online at stlouisbestbridal.com for show details and special offers.

12 ways

Real love stories inspire, detailed ideas

TO ENJOY A BRIDAL SHOW

update trends, timetables suggest goals and legal overviews detail tasks – wherever you live or say “I do.” Guidance for budgets, invitations, gifts,

A bridal show boosts options galore! Rows of booths are staffed by wedding experts ready

jewelry, food, photographer and other details,

to help create a wedding that matches your personality, your style, your vision and your means.

big and small, build confidence. Listings suggest

Where to start? A little planning helps spark amazing fun to solve the unique bridal puzzle.

choices for rehearsal fun, wedding, reception

Results perfectly fit together the merging and emerging “you” on your wedding day.

and honeymoon.

Information about bridal shows and weekly planning updates from St. Louis’ Best Bridal

1

6

extra-special occasion. Watch for fun this year

PRE-REGISTER FOR QUICKER CHECK-IN. A bride who fills out a form in

at shows, online competitions where you as a

advance at www.stlouisbestbridal.com may

head spin, so revisit them later after you

couple shine, individual Cake Dives for brides

walk in FREE when she shows the acknowl-

settle back to sift through options.

and grooms and surprise events.

edgement on her phone or on a printout.

personalize ideas with new twists for your

WRITE DOWN IDEAS AND TAKE PICTURES. Supportive details make your

7

YOUR GOAL: FIND SPECIALISTS.

Brides receive free bridal show tickets while

Providing the wedding date and contact info

they are available at Savvi Formalwear locations.

helps keep the bride and groom in touch for

Seek out those whose ideas match yours.

For the person coming straight to the show, a

post-show offers and ideas. General admission

Sync calendars to make appointments or

cash fee of $5 is payable at the door.

is $5 (cash only).

leave call-back information to set dates

money The Savvi a blast! is e n machi

2

one-on-one later.

FOCUS ON SERVICES YOU NEED. If that engagement of yours is sparkling new with a far-off date, concentrate on total style. Otherwise, find specific items to satisfy items you need. Fill your head with ideas, stuff your bag with information. Prizes at St. Louis’ Best Bridal Shows include a FREE and luxurious trip to a faraway destination.

3

WEAR COMFY SHOES. You will want to retrace your steps alongside at least one close relative or friend who will encourage, rather than distract, you. Perhaps the groom-to-be is this welcome partner.

Kids are welcome, but probably will not be entertained.

4

HAVE QUESTIONS READY FOR THE EXPERTS. Leave time for fun.

Allow time to sample it all – food to fashion, photos to honeymoon.

5

BE UP-FRONT ABOUT BUDGET. Providers want to meet your needs. This allows both sides to draw up, trace and track what potentially will work.

8

PRINT STICKERS. Listing your

name, address, phone and email saves time and effort. Pack them the night before.

9

TAKE A BREAK. Catch your

breath with that helpful cheerleader. Inhale with one eye on the fashions. See something you like? Return to the provider’s booth for follow-up views. Special show-day offers may follow.

10

PRIZE REQUIREMENTS. When

attendance prizes are promoted, find out if you must be present to win.

11

PLAN A RETURN ENGAGEMENT.

As your wedding requirement list shortens, return to another show to fill still-to-do tasks. Each St. Louis’ Best Bridal Show is unique with varied vendors so a follow-up look leads to fulfilling exact needs.

12

SMILE! CELEBRATE! This will be

the finest occasion of your life and YOU are designing its details to make it happen.

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FA SHION

starter file

HOW TO

FIRST THINGS FIRST It should go without saying that you need to get all cleansing and grooming out of the way before proceeding with anything else. Shave, brush your teeth and fix your hair, etc. The last thing you want is a toothpaste smudge on that fancy new tuxedo before your big event. This is a big

PUT ON A TUXEDO A STEP-BY-STEP BEGINNER’S GUIDE

Adapted from SAVVI FORMALWEAR blog Photo provided by SAVVI FORMALWEAR

Bring the other side of the cuff closer and continue pushing the cuff link through the inside cuff between the two buttons. Next, rotate the clasp to keep the cuffs in place.

Be sure to close the forearm button as well.

THE PANTS Put on your pants and pull them up to

occasion and you are not wearing a suit

your waist so the top of the waist band

from graduation.

rests at the hip bone. Tuck shirttails into the pants, smoothing as you go to

THE SOCKS

avoid ruffles in the trousers. Button the

The first articles of clothing to grace your

waistband and zip up. If pants are not

body should be underwear (and undershirt

tailored exactly to your body or you are

if needed) followed by your socks, pulled

wearing a rental, adjust side clamps for

up as high as possible. Sock technology

perfect fit.

should allow them to stay up on their own in this modern day.

THE TIE Flip up your collar and button the shirt

THE SHIRT

collar. Most tuxedo rental neckties have a

Next comes the shirt, but – wait! –

hook and clasp at each end and an adjust-

first, put in the shirt studs. Above each

able tab to lengthen or shorten it. If not,

shirt button is a small hole for a stud.

tie a simple tie knot and use like a suit

Skipping the top button, place the first

tie. Fasten the tie around the neck

stud at the second button from the top of the shirt. To insert it, push the small colored side through the hole until it appears next to the original button. Apply one to each button hole going down the shirt until all four studs have been used. A cummerbund

and adjust it. Flip down the collar so it covers the entire tie. The tie should be fit snugly so the bow or knot sits up without sagging.

THE VEST The vest should cover your waistband

provided with a tuxedo will cover

and hug the torso to create a clean silhou-

the midsection, so all four studs will

ette if and when the jacket is removed.

not be necessary. Without a cummer-

The back strap adjusts it. Starting at the

bund, ideally your tuxedo jacket will be

top, fasten a few buttons to check how it

buttoned, hiding the one lower button

fits initially. If not ideal, remove the vest

without a stud. Thus, when you put on

and loosen or tighten the back buckle.

the shirt, you should fasten it with the

This may take a few trials to keep it snug,

studs, rather than the buttons.

not tight. When comfortable, button all buttons except the bottom one, which is

THE CUFF LINKS

traditionally left undone.

Go ahead and button up all buttons on your shirt to prepare for cuff links. Look

THE JACKET

for two button holes on the shirt cuff, one

Last comes the jacket. Traditionally

on the outside of the wrist and one on the

you only keep the top of the two buttons

inside between the two buttons. Rotate

fastened. However, feel free to unbutton

the clasp of the cuff link to form a “T.”

it when you sit down. Make sure shirt

Using the other hand, push the cuff link’s

cuffs and cuff links are just a tad visible

small end through the outside button hole.

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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

under the jacket sleeve.

formality enhanced

We d d i n g o f L a u r e n Wa i b l e a n d Michael Beal on Oct. 21, 2017. Photo by PHOTOAJOY PHOTOGRAPHY | Tuxedo

by SAVVI FORMALWEAR | Gown by Stella York from ULTIMATE BRIDE | Bouquet by WALTER KNOLL FLORIST

F E AT U R E

The groom selects formal wear to accent his stunning look of the wedding day. Details enhance favorite colors worn by bridesmaids and complement flowers which women carry. Individuality spills into coordinating vests, ties and pocket squares. The couple’s look touches hearts and creates impressive, memorable wedding views.

Impressive styles Following photography courtesy of SAVVI FORMALWEAR

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133

Ann Rafferty of Savvi Formalwear said the total look of a gentleman, youthful at any age, may include tuxedo or formal suit, but it coordinates and extends the day’s design planned by the couple to show style and personalities in quality clothing. Accent colors trend into new shades each season, so wedding dreams that favor “purple” forever, may extend into an extensive range of magenta, lilac, plum or thistle.

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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Previous page, Michael Beal wears a navy blue Sebastian tuxedo with satin edges by Ike Behar. A grey Kristoff vest and winecolored tie accent flowers and bridesmaids’ gowns selected by Lauren Waible for the autumn landscape. | Above, Light gray is a color mainstay in Chrome fashioned by Michael Kors. A 2-1/2inch lapel has a notch cut in premium Venetian wool. French facing provides cool reserve with purple lining hiding mix-and-match colors. | Right, top, Ever-sophisticated black enriches shades of burgundy. Men line up in Michael Kors Desire tuxedos in luxuriously soft Venetian wool with single-breasted, two-button styling, satin notch lapels and besom pockets and side vents.

Right, bottom, Michael Kors provides new tan Tahiti in premium Venetian wool, comfortable and soft for a warm-weather wedding.

The two-button front has a notch lapel with self-fabric trim.



Above, A gentleman eager to stand out with individuality may complete his ensemble with a tie of his own choosing. The dignified selection complements a black Valencia suit from Savvi Black Label. | Right, A wedding party wearing the same Sebastian tuxedo – in cobalt blue this time – with satin edges by Ike Behar is coordinated from bow tie to socks with personality all their own. The trend of formal wear in blues and grays continues, said Rafferty, as does the juxtaposition of vests hiding in surprising colors. Formal shoe colors in brown range from cognac to light tan. The slim-fit look extends to sizes for all ages and physiques. As with women’s gowns, styles look formal, but are more comfortable in fabrics that welcome varying weather, locations and details.

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

toe-tappers

PA R T Y PL A N S

Keep the rhythm

By JANICE DENHAM

Without music, a wedding would miss a beat. A bride would walk up the aisle without fanfare and silence would follow

a meeting armed with at least a few ideas

a music coordinator experienced in repli-

gives initial clues.

cating preferred backgrounds at designated

A list of preferences provided by a music professional is the first hint for a

Sweet said the music always should

Something would be missing.

bride and groom about a potential fit. Is

set the scene. Current favorites are instru-

Melodic entertainment holds a wed-

there an extensive catalog? Does a couple’s

mentals and classics. Opportunity runs

ding together. Thus, another wedding

“must-play” list fit there? A couple also

the gamut from Pachelbel’s “Canon in D”

“star” ascends to orchestrate, but not take

should include what they do not want to

with accompaniment from strings, organ

over proceedings of this long-awaited day.

hear on their day-of-days.

or piano. On the other hand, a bride may want to dance down the aisle, guets edging

Jordan Sweet, DJ and event consultant with Complete Weddings + Events, said,

CEREMONY STARTS PLAY

her path, to music by Justin Timberlake.

“Events require some structure and con-

“My favorite clients are the ones who

Another opportunity for rhythm is the

trol. Someone must run the show with the

know what they want but also are willing

time for conversation over beverages and

microphone and let people know where to

to listen to some of my ideas,” said Sweet,

appetizers before the couple, wedding party,

go.” Finding a professional who can put

who started forming his professional style

family and friends settle into the reception.

their dreams in order is the goal of a couple

at age 14. “I can fill in the holes when you

planning their wedding.

point me in a direction. Everyone draws off

“Everyone has a style and it is impor-

that energy.”

TEAM PERSONALITY A bride and groom should know who

tant for the bride and groom to find some-

A venue like a church may designate

the DJ will be and how that personality

one they can communicate with well. It is

instruments, accompanist and soloist, but

will be displayed – over the top, laid back

an opportunity to make those lofty expec-

some may be negotiable within reason. An

or more reserved. The newlyweds and

tations come to life,” he said.

outdoor venue certainly may have guide-

immediate families should feel assured that

lines for music, too.

the atmosphere designed in advance will

The ability to determine what they

138

moments.

the couple’s rhythmic dance steps.

want in music needs someone who can

A single location for ceremony and

highlight the couple, steadily balanced by

interpret and direct intentions. Coming to

reception does not limit diverse sounds for

the person who takes charge of the event.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

The advance team effort should start the

provider will engage attendees. Developing

Dave and finding out how the longest mar-

moment a specialist is chosen.

an atmosphere of fun creates a good time,

ried couple danced to ‘Unchained Melody’

so happy guests are still up on the dance

at their own wedding and inviting them to

floor at the end of the night.

offer advice to the newlyweds.”

Pleasing the bride and groom first, then the immediate family, does not leave guests

No matter who supplies the services,

Line, group or ethnic dances draw

a feeling of cooperation between music

people to the dance floor. Having a DJ

provider and other vendors helps ensure

lead them offers group security. Audience

a smooth event. Because Complete can

requests provide clues for what a DJ should

coordinate and bundle DJ entertainment,

play. Sweet offers incentive with competi-

photography, videography, photo booth,

tions, so he didn’t blink when his recent

✤ Paces events

uplighting, plus extras like karaoke and

challenge to fill a Complete photo booth

✤ Moves with wedding’s pulse

video production, the comfort zone is auto-

“pushed the envelope” and 28 people

✤ Engages many guests

matic for Sweet.

squeezed in for a new record.

behind. The couple should know how a

Music IN THE GROOVE ✤ Is ready at the outset

✤ Enhances flow ✤ Connects a wide range of ages ✤ Matches style of wedding ✤ Moves with the production ✤ Follows a prepared plan ✤ Progresses in orderly fashion

“I love having my photographer and

While using someone with less experi-

others under one roof with me. You can

ence as a DJ may sound tempting to help

wink at them and everyone knows where

the budget, Sweet stands on the side of

to push and pull the timetable,” he added.

selecting a professional wedding entertainer under contract to save heartache – and

ONE-ON-ONE BASE

often added expense – later. A contract,

Mingling with guests helps lay the

even with a relative, provides a built-in

✤ Looks as good as it sounds

groundwork at an event, according to

level of reliability for the bride and groom

✤ Responds to on-site situations

Sweet. “It takes getting to know Uncle

as well as the music specialist.

PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY DISC JOCKEY PHOTO BOOTH LIGHTING 314.991.5656 STL@CompleteWeDoInc.com CompleteWeddingStLouis.com

FALL & WINTER 2018

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139

Say ‘I do’ to a destination wedding.

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L OV E S TORY

Stephanie & Nathan FEB R UARY 24 , 201 8

‘He looked at me and mouthed, “Wow!”’ STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACEY BARTMANN-LEEK OF LOVE & LIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

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141

‘We clicked. We genuinely enjoyed each other’s company.’

Nathan Badgett’s interest in motorcycles on

her comfort zone. Her outgoing nature and his

She put it to good use as her father proved

a dating website intrigued Stephanie Kiszczak, so

homebody preferences balance, with fur babies

his regained strength. “He walked me down the

she “winked” at him. After messaging for three

Skeeter, an American bulldog, and pug Gabby

aisle, slow and steady. There wasn’t a dry eye in

weeks while he worked out of town as a fresh-

alongside.

The Jewel Box,” Stephanie said. The two also

water biologist, he rolled into view in October 2014 at Three Kings in University City.

Nathan waited a year for warm weather to propose. He asked her to go fishing on May 21,

shared a father-daughter dance to an abbreviated “Lullaby” by Billy Joel.

With “serious butterflies,” she arrived 45

2017. When he chose the quiet lake at August

The groom enjoyed sharing their mutual

minutes late in pouring rain from her downtown

A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area to bait

regard for close-knit families. The wedding

job as a communications consultant but thought

their hooks, she thought her lack of recent fishing

party included a half-dozen nieces and nephews.

he was better looking than his online photo.

experience embarrassed him.

Recovering from a broken hip, officiant Sandy

Twenty minutes into the encounter, he knew

“She was in front and I was in back of a rented

LaRouche looped a symbolic wreath of flowers

they had “something special. We clicked. We

boat,” Nathan said of the just-for-two occasion.

and herbs around the bride and groom’s hands

genuinely enjoyed each other’s company.”

“I used my biggest pole and heaviest line. I kept

during a union ceremony.

The first date lasted three hours.

an eye on the bobber and sneakily attached the

Nathan said, “I’ll never forget the way

She lived in south St. Louis County and

ring to the other pole and cast it for her. I said,

Stephanie looked when I first saw her at the other

Nathan, a native of Wood River, Ill., made his

‘You have a bite.’ But, she came back, ‘Nope,

end of the aisle.” Her favorite view was standing

home in Lake St. Louis. Initial midweek dates

nope.’” Eventually, he talked her into checking

at the altar with Nathan amid a full house. She

extended to the weekend. Before long, their time

her bait, so she pulled out the line and found the

recalled, “He looked at me and mouthed, ‘Wow!’

together increasing, Stephanie said, “I was over

engagement ring on the hook.

For that moment, it seemed like we were the

the moon when he asked me to be his valentine.

He took to his knee in the unsteady boat and

only two people in the world.”

she said, “Yes,” to his marriage request.

They devoted a Sunday to selecting wedding

A special dream developed when

music from favorite artists and movies. Billy Joel

Stephanie’s dad got sick. During more

again gained top billing for a first dance to “She’s

than 79 days with surgeries and rehab,

Got a Way” at the reception featuring centerpieces

his goal was to walk his daughter down

and other details made by the bride’s mother. A

the aisle on Feb. 24, 2018. Amid the

candy buffet provided a top hit.

hope, their wedding - double-themed

Photos from the day captured their history at

in nature and motorcycles - took shape.

Forest Park and Three Kings, where it all began.

The Jewel Box kicked in a huge dose of

A mutual interest in motorcycles was displayed

plants on a rainy winter day, while the

with mini cycles on a square wedding cake and

Moto Museum revved up the reception.

make-believe tours in bikes at the museum.

Juniper green gowns and accents

“I am pretty easygoing,” the groom said. “My

satisfied the bride’s color urge and

big request was a keg of Bell’s Two Hearted Ale. A

It was a pivotal moment when we ordered pizza

sparkles brightened the day and captured her

close friend who is an accomplished home brewer

online together for the first time, staying inside

love of bling. Peggy Cox of Exotic Flowers and

crafted two special brews to commemorate our

in a crazy ice storm.”

Gifts, part of a long-time Girl Scout “family,”

day and included pictures of our dogs on the

They rode together on Nathan’s motorcycle.

gathered the greenery. Her cascading bouquet

labels.” Toasted ravioli and Gus’s pretzels oriented

He got her a better-fitting helmet, sparkly green,

favored ferns, hypericum berries and amaranthus

late-night snacks to St. Louis.

for a special ride on his Triumph. Heading home

over flowers. Stephanie’s crafty mother used pieces

They appreciated the 250 guests who came in

of her own wedding dress to make a ring-bearer

mid-winter to celebrate with them. The memora-

her. Stephanie countered, “I already knew I loved

pillow and bride’s garter. Nathan wore motorcy-

ble day was a hinge to their future, Nathan said,

him, but that made it even more real.”

cle cuff links, a Valentine-wedding gift from his

reinforcing his point that the most important part

bride, and let her dab away tears with a handker-

of a wedding day is to open a gate to life that the

chief his father gave him.

bride and groom will share together.

from a birthday party, he confessed his love for

Nathan has enjoyed Stephanie’s willingness to snorkel, snow ski and try other activities outside

on the move

PA R T Y PL A N S

Video brings day to life

The world of selfies and drones has become a staple in wedding videography, according to Jeff Hill,

quickly, so brides and grooms see the value of reliving the moment.”

owner of Westview Media.

“The selfie cam video is among the latest in my bag of tricks,” he said. Capitalizing on talented guests,

Equipment is key to videography results, accord-

he hands off a camera to an unsuspecting person

ing to Hill. At Westview, that includes a new tool

– even the groom – for distinct views and unique

like the selfie camera plus improved tools like a jib,

perspectives. “People take selfies all the time. ‘Will

slider and Glidecam for better angles and improved

you shoot what you see?’ I ask bridesmaids or other

quality of focused memories.

guests while they are dancing.”

While not everyone takes an extra step to engage a videographer in capturing the day’s proceedings,

144

PARTY PLEASER

Using a drone may sound like fun to the non-professional, but it takes practice to do it proficiently, he noted.

many wish they had – when it is too late. A wedding

“You have to know where it is going,” Hill

video captures what everyone saw plus extra scenes

laughed only half-heartedly. “Ours almost hit a couple

beyond the obvious focus of the celebration.

buildings, got caught in a tree. I cut myself once. It

“Videos have become more popular,” said Hill,

might be fun to use but still can be an interesting

who gained new perspective as a groom on the other

challenge even for those on the ground looking up.”

side of the camera in 2017. “The day goes by so

He avoids using it when it would distract the

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Above, Laura Craigmiles and Eric Laudermilk head from their wedding on Aug. 26, 2017, at First Christian Church to the reception at a private home in Hannibal.

OUR VIDEOS

Watch their wedding trailers Stephanie & Branden: https://vimeo.com/255130215 Laura & Eric: https://vimeo.com/247834468 Jacqueline & Todd: https://vimeo.com/251876234 Lauren & Andy: https://vimeo.com/254585620

Zoom in on a VIDEOGRAPHER ✤ Research and meet with prospective providers early.

✤ Focus on a videographer’s style as a match.

✤ Consider whether you prefer fast-paced, vibrating resonance or a softly romantic theme for backdrop. ✤ Check options and possibilities and ask about special offers. ✤ Read the contract’s fine print for services provided and extra fees.

proceedings, but likes to photograph celebrants from above. This sets their place in time and location throughout various parts of the day.

CHERISHED FUN AND ADVICE This is one time when a bride and groom, who say the day is over too soon, should be able to put their trust in unseen and sometimes unexpected results of a professional.

“There are a lot of things the bride and groom miss at their own wedding. These are surprises they love to live after the moment.

This is the chance to see what was there,” Hill added. That may include the fun of a Mannequin Challenge where everyone holds a position at a certain moment.

For a bonus chapter, a video may include special messages, invited by the videographer or that roving reporter. The setting may be early when a couple gets ready, but any segment of the day is perfect for sharing intimate and/or comical thoughts, memories and advice.

Condensing an entire day’s events into a video of 1-1/2 hours requires an experienced hand and eye. Recent brides and grooms in Hill’s experience want a full story of the good, the emotional and the unexpected during a day’s preparation, festivities and extras. In addition, a couple usually selects a musical backdrop for a preview capsule of 4-1/2 to 5 minutes.

A couple should zoom in on a provider who enjoys capturing the day in a time capsule of significant milestones. Like with other providers, the contract should be awarded for compatible style, personality, leadership and full disclosures.

Options for delivery may include uploaded results online or by Blu-Ray, DVD and flash drive.

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PA R T Y PL A N S

in sight

What to ask a photographer Find your photographer

The mutual goal is to

remember how vows were sealed with a kiss, who attended and what fun it was. These questions help focus on a perfect fit.

Samples

May we see more than one sample of your work? Can

you show us a complete product like we want, start to finish, by the photographer we would have?

Image preservation

How do you protect wedding

photographs and for how long? Will we be able to return in five or 10 years to replace or get more photos?

Equipment

Do you capture images with professional quality

cameras or use consumer-level equipment? Is there backup if a camera, lighting or electricity fails? What special effects – black-and-white, sepia, spotlights or other – might our photographs have?

Collaboration

Do we work directly with our chosen or

assigned photographer or is it an office assistant or other staffer?

Who answers our calls? How do we review, select and edit final images for online, album and print sets?

Time

What is the maximum time until we see proofs? Once

pictures are selected, how long until final delivery? Do we get a CD with all photos and when? How may we use it?

Delivery

In what format do you deliver proofs? What does the

price include? Are other options or products available? At what cost?

Quality

Do you personally print photos, versus using a

professional lab or consumer hobbyist as photo-finisher? Are images guaranteed against fading and for how long?

Style

The wedding day is a milestone chapter on a bride and groom’s love story. It should be told in their own voice – with helpful interpretation by a professional photographer.

Samples of a potential photographer’s work display glimpses into ways memories can picture that romance in bloom.

Experience gives the person behind the camera an edge on telling this

Do you work primarily in a natural artistic style – traditional,

story, so a feeling of rapport should be evident when a couple sits down

photojournalistic or is it mixed? Do you like to shoot in a studio

to assess a potential specialist’s work and style. Digital photos allow the

or vary locations? Are engagement photos included? Where may

photographic style of single or multiple photographers shine without

we take them? Who picks sites? Do you have options to suggest in

taking over the spontaneity.

Teamwork is crucial, so watch how office staff interacts and the courtesy

inclement weather?

Experience

extended to the bridal couple as a potential customer.

How long have you photographed weddings?

Engagement photos test flexibility to see if multiple looks will be

How long are you in business? Can you provide references? If we

embraced or if the photographer is fixed on established ideas. Completed

choose companion services, who fulfills these obligations?

work suggests whether artistic comfort – of the bride and groom, plus

Assurances

How do you ensure satisfaction? What is the

backup plan in a delay or emergency? What is the procedure if equipment fails or another issue arises? Do you carry liability insurance? Where is the contract with details I can read before I sign our agreement?

146

Looks of love

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

a photographer – rests in a formal venue or more eclectic environment.

With multiple photos to be taken and chosen, evaluating the creativity of posed photos is important, too.

Variety is important at a single location for both ceremony and reception. Energy and excitement should follow the couple from preparation to a last look of farewell or final dance.

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Photo opposite page, Trotter Photo catches Misty Foster and Ben Burke docking to kiss before they set sail on April 22, 2017, at their wedding in Wright City.| Left, Complete Weddings + Events captures a glimpse of Sami Teel and Brandon Craig’s wedding day on Sept.

15, 2017. | Below, Trotter Photo etches a uniquely sweet moment for Erica Abbott and Corey Heffner to remember on Sept. 9, 2017 .

930 Kehrs Mill road, suite 215, Ballwin, Mo 63011 | www.striKeaposestl.coM | (636) 220-3343

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F E ATUR E S

rustic destination

Wine country

WEDDINGS

Wedding location at CEDAR LAKE CELLARS | Photography by JESSICA LAUREN PHOTOGRAPHY

the possibility of a popup thunderstorm. For

A winery, Bolm said, contrasts city compet-

us, the answer is indoor facilities – the rustic

itors by providing free, and often abundant,

Destination: St. Louis area.

barn and a climate-controlled barrel room which

parking for latitude in inviting guests. Numbers

Time involved: A single-day event.

opened just last year. It has retractable walls

matter in each setting. Getting married in a

Ambience: Picturesque countryside with

for a panoramic view of the property,” he said.

wine cellar or on a deck or gazebo overlooking

A couple shopping for a wedding should

the Missouri River? Be certain the maximum

Not long ago and not so far away, wineries became option for local weddings.

row after row of rolling vineyards, rustic barns to indoor elegance, ready-made backdrops, dining

approach a winery to discover options.

options with a broad range of wines.

Proximity to the metropolitan area allows

Ambience is the biggest asset of a winery

on one or the other location to be married, but

easy access to tastings and planning opportu-

wedding, declared Carl Bolm, president of

when they see our two totally different areas,

nities to soak in the natural setting’s relaxing

Cedar Lake Cellars in Wright City.

they end up signing up for the other.”

artistry. Bolm noted that Cedar Lake Cellars’

“In our case, Cedar Lake is just 30 miles from

If time allows, visiting in the same time

chef has experience in a wide range of cuisines

Chesterfield. The grounds are a park-like setting.

frame of the upcoming wedding helps assess a

using fresh, local flavors, plus its own award-

There are water features, lakes. It is just beauti-

facility’s practical appeal. On the positive side,

winning wines and other beverages. Meals served

ful as an outdoor setting for pictures,” he said.

a winery destination which offers comfortable

as buffet or sit-down are equally popular there.

That doesn’t mean only a comfortably

amenities might become a winter option – with

“We have had everything you could want

sunny, summer day creates the perfect scene.

a fireworks display glowing brighter as it moves

in a wedding: carriage, balloon-covered lights,

Bolm recommended checking options for a

up a couple’s list of desirable options.

a petting zoo when lots of kids were guests. We

facility’s indoor alternatives, too.

148

number allowed corresponds with the guest list.

“Often people come with their mind set

A venue’s assets may vary by season, not only

are very accommodating with everything from

“With any outdoor venue, you have a

where the party will be held, but also in support.

tuxedo weddings to sport coat and tie, with a lot

weather concern. There may be rain, heat.

With multiple options, views and decorations

of variations. Our blank canvas, even in a big red

During the wedding season, there is always

also may differ.

barn, allows a big streak of creativity,” he said.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Bolm pointed out that Cedar Lake Cellars provides separate areas for its public tasting room and parties.

“We don’t have crossover interruptions.

They are 100 percent independent of each other and a person coming for one doesn’t know the other one actually exists,” he said. “As a bonus, guests arriving early for the ceremony can enjoy hanging out in the public area before the ceremony starts.”

INQUIRE ABOUT DETAILS ✤ Is there space for dressing and preparation?

Is a dance floor easy to use? ✤ Are accessible restrooms adjacent to

desired facilities? ✤ Who oversees the wedding day and what

does he or she do? Who is responsible for details like moving flowers from ceremony to reception area?

A wedding in local wine country paints a rustic, natural setting in a countryside scene ramped up by the impressive dream of traditional style in a relaxed atmosphere. An indoor-outdoor plan broadens views for a wedding. At the 2017 wedding of Devin Bain and Kale Stewart at Cedar Lake Cellars, the newlyweds take advantage of autumn’s fall colors, then utilize the inherent beauty and spaciousness of a reception with relatives and friends in the winery’s new Barrel Room, where sky and vineyard are only arm’s-length away.

✤ What decorative details are provided? ✤ Who sets up chairs and tables? What is time

line for preparation and decorating? ✤ What other services may we tap through your

venue? Do you have access to transportation to and from the event? What is the best approach to ease transportation – a common pickup or nearby lodging? ✤ Do you recommend a local florist, planner,

officiant, bakery, hair and makeup specialist? ✤ What kind of food may we have – barbecue

and picnic, fiesta or other ethnic fare, upscale dining? ✤ Are unique places nearby or part of winery

location where guests could expand the rustic occasion into a weekend or longer stay?

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149

F E ATUR E S

home details

full of dreams

Items provided by DILLARD’S REGISTRY Photography by TROTTER PHOTO

Personal preferences guide what a couple wants and hopes to achieve in their merged design. For a registry, newlyweds-to-be suggest any alluring item from a store’s shelves or its website for their mutual or individual enjoyment.

Their newly acquired style will be aided with the help of fond family and friends who ask what their “together” home should have and hold by way of a registry. It should be organized early in the engagement with hoped-for items varied in use, price and style.

IN THE KITCHEN  Teapot  Paring knife  Cutlery, knife block, cutting boards  Can/bottle openers  Ice cream scoop  High-temp mitts, pot holders  Dishcloths and towels  Paper towel holder  Fruit bowl/ripener  Cookie jar

Above, Savannah ironstone plates in pink scallop and gray scroll, herringbone cotton napkins and a clear, footed eyelet dessert dish, all by Southern Living; an Aromatique candle in Valencia orange, and a Primitives by Kathy dog photo holder share space on a pink Shagalicious throw by Studio D.

150

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

 Cutting board  Canister set  Spice rack  Pot rack  Cookbooks  Food savers

FOR THE TABLE

GLASSWARE

 Salt/pepper shakers

 8-12 water goblets, wine glasses, martini

 Oil, dressing cruets

glasses, margarita glasses, champagne

 Corkscrew

flutes, highball/tumblers, water glasses

 Trivets

 Water pitcher

 Placemats, napkins, napkin rings

 Drying rack for fine glassware

 Tablecloths and runners  Coasters

COOKING & BAKING

 Serving trays

 Skillet

 Cake plate and dome

 Griddle

 Chip-and-dip server

 Saucepans and stockpot

 Salad bowl and servers

 Wok and stir-fry pan

 Wine rack, chiller, decanter, carrier

 Steamer

 Ice bucket and tongs

 Slow cooker

 Punch bowl and ladle

 Pressure cooker

 Vases

 Baking sheets

Above, A reversible table runner in Fiesta colors of Confetti serves as backdrop for hammered-copper moscow mule mugs in colors of blue lapis and daffodil yellow, lemongrass skillet baker, scarlet cocktail shaker and turquoise nonbreakable tumbler.

Below, KitchenAid “Professional 600” series 6-quart stand mixer, mixes up to 14 cups batter at one time.

 Pie pans/dishes

DINNERWARE

 Muffin pan

 8-12 place settings: dinner plates, bowls,

 Cake pans

salad plates, dessert plates, cups and

 Pizza pan, baking stone

saucers, forks, salad forks, teaspoons,

 Cooling racks

soup spoons, knives and steak knives

 Casserole dishes with lids

 Serving bowls, platters, utensils

 Nonstick sheets for oven, baking

 Gravy boat

 Mixing bowls

 Butter dish and knives

 Measuring cups and spoons

 Pitcher

 Rolling pin

 Sugar bowl and spoon

 Grater

 Coffee mugs

 Spatulas  Whisk

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151

 Potato masher

Above, Trio of canine decor items fills the newlyweds’ home: photo holder announcing a three-some and pet “Love” block with string art paw, both from Primitives by Kathy, and a his-and-hers key and leash holder from the Mud Puppy collection of Mud Pie in the center.

Below, left, A Mud Pie pillow reminds the sleepy of the wedding year.

Below, right, Eagle Creek gathers set of cube, half-cube and garment folder in its “pack-it” travel system. | Dillard’s pink leatherette cover declares the passport of the new “Mrs.” in gold foil lettering.

 Food, oven thermometers

 Trash, garbage cans

 Kitchen timer

 Wall and table clocks, alarm clock

 Kitchen scissors

 Candles, candle holders

 Knife sharpener

 Wall sconces/wall anchors

APPLIANCES

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

 Magnifying mirror

 Microwave oven

 Bath towels

 Coffee maker for single serving

 Bath mat

and/or group

 Shower and sink accessories

 Coffee grinder

 CD/DVD/magazine storage

 Espresso/cappuccino machine

 Traditional/robotic vacuum cleaner,

 Toaster

specialty cleaning aids, hand vac

 Mixer, hand and/or stand

 Step stool

 Food processor; hand blender

 Iron, ironing board, steamer

 Griddle

 Laundry hamper

 Soda machine

 Storage boxes

 Tea kettle

 Entry, kitchen, bath mats

 Bread maker

 Tool set/toolbox/sewing kit

 Juicer or extractor

 Box of screws/box of nails

 Iced tea maker

 Cordless screwdriver

 Indoor/outdoor grill

 Cordless drill

 Grilling utensils

 Suitcases, backpacks, duffle bags

AROUND THE HOUSE

152

 Picture frames

 Cooler, regular size, mini and wheeled  Portable chairs

 Sheets, pillowcases, pillows

 DVD/CD player/game system

 Spread, blanket, comforter, duvet cover

 TV

 Memory foam mattress topper

 Patio furniture

 Desk lamp

 Picnic basket

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

treasures

F E AT U R E S

To wear & share Items provided by DILLARD’S REGISTRY Photography courtesy of TROTTER PHOTO

SAY ‘THANK YOU’ TO CHARMING FRIENDS AND RELATIVES WHO HELP CREATE YOUR WEDDING. Clockwise, from bottom left, Charms of “Love” and “Mom” with Rafaelian gold/silver finish on bangle bracelets by Alex and Ani. | A “best friend” will be charmed by her designation with a sterling silver script initial and birthstone or pearl on a James Avery hammered hook-on bracelet. | Invite a bridesmaid and pour a toast in her stemless wine glass, a box gift exclusive from Dillard’s, on a soft Southern Living turkish cotton towel colored “duck egg blue.”

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153

BEJEWELED, REFLECTIVE, BREEZY GIFTS SPARK FASHION WITH FUN. Memories come in all shapes and sizes for a bridal couple and support crew.

Left, The bride shows how her garden grows and glows in a multi-colored necklace by Betsey Johnson.

A wedding requires more than everyday glitz. Left, Start with heart designs by James Avery. A sterling silver band of connected hearts sized for a man or a woman symbolizes passion, love and commitment. Earrings in a free-flowing string shape connect with sterling silver ear posts. A necklace with free-moving 14k gold and sterling silver hearts interlock romantic appeal. | Right, Earrings, bracelet and “Y” necklace by Cezanne showcase a halo teardrop design.

154

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

When registering for likable items that fit a couple’s style, unexpected details catch the eye. A couple finds luggage and wearables from head to toe for beach or hiking, plus his-andhers accessories like watches, wallets, footwear and gear to carry down the street or around the world.

Top to bottom, Anna & Ava hair accessories – bands, clips and comb – on a Vince Camuto satin pashmina in frosted purple color. | Kate Jandry white capelet with breezy flowers attached. | Assemble wine glass and pilsner beer glass for the bride and groom and a “to dos” wedding planner, both exclusive from Dillard’s; cake topper and vintage server matched by Mud Pie.

FALL & WINTER 2018

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155

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L OV E S TORY

Tayler & Jeff SEPTEMBER 2, 2017

‘You could tell he had a big heart.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WHITE-KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY

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157

‘All of our friends and family were there.’

The desire to improve life for kids first

An easy fit. “You could tell he had a big heart,

made airy additions to flower arrangements and

attracted Tayler Marx and Jeff McCurdy. Close

especially when it comes to helping kids,” Tayler

bouquets.

family ties helped them draw up a blueprint for

said. She admired his development firm’s commit-

In the midst of wedding excitement, Tayler

their wedding and future together.

ment to the Compassion program, sponsoring

and Jeff appreciated a few moments together as

more than 800 kids internationally, and that day’s

everyone was being seated for dinner.

As organizer of the first volunteer event for the newly-formed Young Friends of Mercy in

“manual labor to make a child’s life better.”

“It is such a great day, but everything is a blur

the summer of 2015, Tayler and others her age

Tayler’s nursing compassion came into play

as you are pulled in so many directions,” Tayler

invited friends to a cleanup day at a St. Louis

on their first ski trip together, too. A friend’s

said. “We were able to take a deep breath and

school. A college buddy encouraged Jeff to come.

medical issues required three hazardous drives

soak in the fact that we were married!

“When he noticed I was struggling to hoe a

through a blizzard for aid. They admitted to

The bridal couple showed their sweet

flower bed, he stepped in to help,” she said. “He

answering the emergency bell, but usually prefer

hospitality. They love cheesecake, so Hank’s

spent the rest of the day helping me with various

to plan ahead. Jeff said, “We don’t really fly by

Cheesecake created a traditional one in tiers to

jobs and then invited me to the Cardinals’ game

night. We are both planners.”

cut and serve as wedding cake. “It was the perfect

the same night.”

Jeff kept the engagement ring in his sock

mix of traditional, but also something we loved,” the bride added.

For a first-day finale, the outdoors-minded

drawer for a month before proposing the day

Jeff invited Tayler to his favorite fishing

before they left on a European cruise. It was at

Mini milkshakes, with the couple’s picture

spot. What attracted them that first day? She

a favorite spot, the 11th tee box at Old Warson

attached to straws, and cheeseburgers were the

Country Club, with its view of downtown St.

late-evening snack. Another sweet treat of cookies

Louis. For the wedding, Jeff left planning to

came from Larry’s House of Cakes.

Tayler and said he “came along for moral support.”

“Cousins brought them from Marion, Ill., my

They were married at Ste. Genevieve duBois

parents’ hometown,” Jeff said. “My grandmother

Catholic Church on Sept. 2, 2017, with a reception

always had them at their house.” They gave them

at Old Warson – the same locations her parents

to guests as a takeaway that night, bagged with

chose to start marriage. A rehearsal dinner was at

thank-you cards printed with their crest.

Deer Creek Club, where her parents met.

While Tayler and Jeff planned a getaway with

Tayler wore her grandmother’s ring for

fireworks, her dad staged another as a surprise for

something blue and borrowed a bracelet from

them to enjoy, too, between sets by the live band,

her mother and her late grandmother’s pearl

J-Rob with big-band and Motown sounds. Their

bracelet from an aunt. They showed wedding-

superb farewell to guests ended a family-centered

day pictures of parents and grandparents on

plan, after they shared the day with people from

the escort card table. A total of six grandpar-

far and wide. Jeff said, “All of our friends and

ents attended, but a photo with her grandpar-

family were there.”

ents is especially memorable for her, because her

“The weather was perfect,” the bride recalled.

grandfather passed away since then. Children in

“We live just down the street, so we took the golf

the wedding party were from her cousins’ families.

cart home. It was so much fun!” See page 160.

“Jeff is very outdoorsy and loves to hunt,”

True to their outdoor-loving natures, they

laughed, “It certainly wasn’t looks. We were

Tayler said about a recurring detail. “He organized

left at 4 a.m. the next morning for a honeymoon

covered in dirt and sweat when we met.” Still,

a dove hunt the day before our wedding for close

cruise. Rather than sit on a beach, they traveled to

Jeff was impressed. “She was the only other person

guests and I thought pheasant feathers were a nod

Alaska and Whistler, British Columbia, to scale

there who was working hard.”

to the hunting side of him.”

a glacier, kayak, hike and fish for salmon, which they shipped home to relish later.

It was a hometown winner – no matter how

They used a crest, designed to incorporate

the baseball team played. She grew up in Rock

their first initials and feathers, on invitations

As they settled down to their future together,

Hill, Jeff in Ladue. Their parents live a mile apart

and programs for the wedding as well as the cuff

their thoughts were again on children and family

and the couple’s home is midway between them.

links which she gave him. Feathers themselves

– hoping to start one of their own.

PA R T Y PL A N S

away we go

Photography by WHITE-KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY

Blazing Farewell Tayler Marx and Jeff McCurdy scored big smiles as they set off after their wedding reception on Sept. 2, 2017, at Old Warson Country Club. All the coming and going on that big day of days requires thoughtful preparation to move easily back and forth, here to there. Options, which are boundless, may include the couple puttering away in a vehicle, owned by themselves or a relative, or wheeled delivery to destinations by limousine or horse-drawn carriage, school bus or party bus. This setting was memorable for guests who watched them disappear in a fond farewell amid a bright burst of fireworks. It also quietly transitioned the newlyweds into their new life at home.

Their Love Story starts on page 157.

160

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

After the

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ST. CHARLES COUNTY 7255 MEXICO RD. (St. Peters)..................................... (636) 2710 HWY K (O’ Fallon) ............................................ (636) 2214 FIRST CAPITOL ................................................. (636) 1290 JUNGERMANN (At McClay - St. Peters) ............... (636)

397-7721 379-8499 947-0343 922-3000

SOUTH 1903 RICHARDSON Road (At Jeffco) ........................... (636) 5452 TELEGRAPH RD. ................................................ (314) 8562 WATSON RD.................................................... (314) 4631 HAMPTON ...................................................... (314) 2211 LEMAY FERRY RD. (At Reavis Barracks) ................. (314) 524 Old Smizer Mill Road (Dierberg’s Plaza) ................ (636) 12444 TESSON FERRY (Next to Dierberg’s)................... (314)

464-4503 892-9773 842-3271 353-5486 892-6037 343-2808 842-7570

ILLINOIS 4237 S. State Rte. 159 (Glen Carbon).......................... (618) 288-5276

WEST 10000 MANCHESTER (Glendale) ................................ (314) 2038 MCKELVEY RD. (North of Dorsett) ........................ (314) 8034 BIG BEND (West of Murdoch) ............................. (314) 15372 MANCHESTER (Ellisville) .................................. (636) 14878 W. CLAYTON (At Baxter) ................................. (636) 8637 OLIVE STREET RD. (West of McKnight Rd.) ............ (314) 13960 MANCHESTER RD ........................................... (636) 11041 OLIVE STREET (Creve Coeur)............................. (314) 7501 DELMAR .......................................................... (314) 429 LAFAYETTE CENTER (Manchester) .......................... (636)

821-2373 878-4024 961-1373 227-9443 391-1275 567-6680 227-8299 872-9393 862-1313 527-8009

NORTH 10655 ST. CHARLES ROCK RD.................................... (314) 427-8661

SEE WEBSITE FOR COMPLETE CONTEST RULES AND DETAILS. ONE ENTRY PER ENGAGED COUPLE.