Best Bridal (1.31.19)

S T. L O U I S ’

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

MUST SEE

LOVE STORIES

YOUR DAY

!

Your Way AMAZING

DRESSES RIGHT STYLE FOR EVERY FIGURE

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WEDDING 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

Customize The Groom’s Look during your Free Groom’s Try On in tuxedos or suits in all styles, fits and colors. Whether you rent or buy, you will feel confident that your wedding attire will look and feel perfect!

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Thank You for Voting Us Best in Tuxedos and Suits!

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selection

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The options you want for wedding packages, audio/visual, up-lighting, staging, decor & more

16,200 sq. ft. Grand Ballroom & 6,025 sq. ft. Junior Ballroom plus pre-function space

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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

The Franklin Room IN THE HISTORIC SOULARD NEIGHBORHOOD

Character • Elegance • Charm

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St. Louis’ Best Bridal

StLouisBestBridal.com

BRIDAL SHOW

!

IN W N ACATIO

aV

for 2

The Best Weddings Start Here.

Whether you need one item or are just beginning the planning, you’ll find the best at the St. Louis’ Best Bridal Show.

The fir

100

st

bridesto will rec -be FRE eive a

WE STL BRIDES

E GIFT

Sunday, June 9 Saint Charles Convention Center A chance to win exciting prizes Delicious hors d’oeuvres, music and drinks The latest Bridal Fashions, featuring the most elegant and popular wedding gowns Guidance of the area’s best wedding specialists

COURTESY OF:

Win a Vacation for 2!* FREE SHOW PASSES & TICKET INFO Pre-register for free bride-and-groom admission

www.stlbestbridal.com Complimentary tickets are available at area Savvi Formalwear locations, while supplies last.

Public pays a $5 entrance fee (cash only) at the door.

Businesses wishing to exhibit should call 314-475-1202 for more information. *Some restrictions apply.

!

B DA D

find the one Dream dresses in sizes 0-30W. Visit davidsbridal.com or call 877.923.2743 for an appointment.

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• Bridal Showers • Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties

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• Anniversary Parties • Baby Showers

T HE M AG A ZINE

welcome

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 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: ✤ 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 to you and yours!

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

Rachel & Alec Page 139

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.

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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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

Find all of the gifts you need for your special day exclusively at The Belleza Bridal Boutique! From Bridesmaid gifts to honeymoon essentials and even goods for your Groom, you are sure to find unique items to give to others or to treat yourself!

Mention this ad and receive 20% off your first order in The Belleza Bridal Boutique in-store or online.

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BELLEZA VIP BRIDE PERKS! 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! for more information call 636-300-3437 or email mybellezabride@gmail.com

OUR MAGAZINE

inside

COVER STORIES

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‘How do I love thee?’

9 wondrous stories navigate unique paths.

51

Gown glory Plunge and applique, lace and embellish it.

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Bouquets Arrange flowers and greens garden-style to blossom.

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Sound of love is ‘Timeless’ ‘When You Got a Good Thing,’ it’s music magic.

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Cakes in real time Design sweets to satisfy personal sweet tooth.

111

Memorable fare Personal palate sets wedding table.

29 145

FEATURES

62

Un-veiled!

Hair decoration reveals the short and the long.

66

Little girls practice Miini maids fluff their dreams.

67

All dolled up Fantasy party dresses fit occasion.

68

Tempting treasures Special occasion stands watch for keepsakes.

102

Our sweetest brides, grooms Cake Dives: icing on cake for newlyweds-to-be.

104

Rehearsal dinner Set the stage for grand-opening greetings.

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Destination: pirate territory Rob’s choice: Marry Nancy or walk the plank.

120

Polished paws Newlyweds pad wedding with favored guests: pets.

127

Reception directory Find the perfect venue for your wedding. { MORE FEATURES ON PAGE 18 }

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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THE GREAT WAY TO GATHER FOR

BANQUETS & WEDDINGS

If you are looking for a wedding reception venue with delicious catering, beautiful rooms, affordable pricing, amazing wedding packages, a convenient location with close proximity to hotels with a friendly and experienced staff, then Gateway Center and Spectra Food Services & Hospitality is the right choice for you!

GATEWAY CENTER IS THE GREAT WAY TO GATHER

10% Room Discount Code STLBB

COLLINSVILLE, IL CALL ASHLEY 618-345-8998 EXT. 109 WWW.GATEWAYCENTER.COM SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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inside

OUR MAGAZINE

FEATURES

{ CONTINUED }

145

Men with confidence Stand out with style and color.

152

At home Registry points in direction of ‘together.’

ESSENTIALS

35

Wedding time line Calendar planning achieves long-term goals.

42

Get organized early 5 priorities direct who can or will pay for what.

44 Sign on the dotted line

86 62

One item you MUST have to wed: marriage license.

46

Money matters Smart addition balances expenses with budget.

142

Celebrate with St. Louis’ Best Bridal Creative ideas and fun blanket planning.

143 Bridal show tips

Fun and ideas reward easy do-ahead plans.

LOVE STORIES

29 BALANCE: Emily & Chris

Marriage, family take precedence over details.

39

TOGETHER: Lauren & Michael Years as couple write prescription for wedding.

75 ROOTED: Kimberly & Owen

Laughter, tears and poddles at the wedding.”

91

INITIATED: Cori & Jim Couple ‘clicks’ from the start.

99

HARMONY: Annie & Danny Theater friends help put wedding in tune.

107

ALIGNED: Alyssa & Chris Friendship blossoms into romance. { MORE LOVE STORIES ON PAGE 20 }

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OUR MAGAZINE

inside

LOVE STORIES

{ CONTINUED }

123 RENEWAL: Debra & Roosevelt Formal vows reaffirm young love.

139 STUDIED: Rachel & Alec

Time-for-two perfects Friday wedding strategy.

157

LONGTIMERS: Ashley & Matt Kindergarten kiss, storybook wedding.

PARTY PLANS

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Pick attendants from ‘who’s who’ list Relatives and BFFs should be ‘best-of-best’ forever.

139 94

86

10 tips to choose photographer Friend-for-the-day captures meaning and fun.

110

Mind the time Schedule fits design of master plan so good wishes flow.

126

Venue shopping Priorities, budget fit the celebration.

176

Send-off Away we go into our future.

FOOD, FASHION, FLOWERS

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Figure shapes up personal look Gown style positively enhances bride’s positive profile.

72

Preserve the dress Enjoy pleasure of gown’s longtime company.

78 Color flowers from the heart

Seasone, texture and tone set garden glory.

144

Tuxedo how-to Cufflinks, shirt studs, necktie: where to start.

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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Your Delicious Wedding Moment BEGINS WITH

From Elegant to Casual, Buffet to BBQ Kenrick’s is priced to fit your needs, with the service that you deserve. ♦ Wedding Receptions ♦ Hall Packages

♦ Engagement Parties ♦ Bridal Showers

♦ Rehearsal Dinners ♦ Post-Wedding Brunch

♦ Full Bar Options ♦ Equipment Rental

314-631-2440 | www.kenricks.com SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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VO LU M E 1 6 - N U M B E R 1 SPRING & SUMMER 2019

PUBLISHER Mary Ann Wagner EDITORIAL Editor Janice Denham DESIGN Art Director Robert Meyer

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,

ADVERTISING Account Executives Laura Dacus Olivia Kostadimas Sales Assistant Abby Reich EDITORIAL ASSISTANCE (314) 475-1204 ADVERTISING INQUIRIES (314) 475-1201 CONTACT US St. Louis’ Best Bridal 900 N. Tucker Blvd.

St. Louis, MO 63101 www.stlouisbestbridal.com

but excitement as well—The Living World, Lakeside Cafe, River Camp and the Event Tent. Then let our staff of professionals help plan every detail, from catering

BRIDAL MARKETPLACE Find local wedding professionals www.stlouisbestbridal.com

to exquisite floral arrangements to animal greeters— and even private tours of many of the Zoo’s 90 acres of habitats. For more information, call 314-646-4855 or visit stlzoo.org to complete an online rental inquiry form.

Photography by Heather Roth

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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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 (2004-2019) 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.

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 regular price items remaining on your registry after the wedding.

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

T HE M AG A ZINE

on the cover

COVER MODEL Dr. Emily Johnson G’Sell Chris’s admiration for Emily in dental school led them to brush up on ways to keep smiling together.

Their Love Story starts on Page 29.

GOWN Wedding Gallery Hand-embroidered, clear seed beads provide vintage appeal to a classic fit-and-flare design of Wedding Gallery in its exclusive Made-in-USA Beau Monde Couture Collection. A V-neckline in front and back extends with illusion onto sheer straps. Back buttons extend over layers of lace with sequins added to the wispy floral design. A scalloped hem matching the overall lace forms a semi-cathedral train.

HAIR & MAKEUP Belleza Bridal and Hair Salon Kara Brooks A classic updo with full bun plays with the texture and volume of Emily’s hair to frame her face, glowing with soft, natural glamour. A bold lip in mauve matte and soft contouring in mauve blush contrast with fair hair and eyes, outlined with lash extensions, for the singular pop of her engaging smile.

BOUQUET Walter Knoll Florist

PHOTOGRAPHY Trotter Photo

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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

St Charles

St Louis

The Outlet

425 Clark St, St Charles

4164 Chippewa, St Louis

801 N. Second St, St Charles

(636) 724-7038

(314) 219-8700

(636) 724-9012

www.weddinggalleryweb.com SPRING & SUMMER 2019

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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ON T HE COV E R

togetherness

s e i r o t s Love 75 157 99 This page, clockwise from lower left, Annie and Danny previewed their duet first in local

29

theater, then debuted it at a wedding with drama, applause and odes to joy. | Kim and Owen cooled the pace on their hot wedding day with a turn on their trampoline at home. | Ashley and Matt, whose first kiss was delivered in kindergarten, took their time – more than 27 years – to find their way to the altar. | Emily and Chris, dentists, brushed aside alternate ideas to follow family precedent at their church wedding in downtown St. Louis.

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

139 107 123 39 This page, clockwise from lower left, Debra and Roosevelt renewed their commitment with family attending the “wedding” they wished they had celebrated the first time. | Rachel and Alec gave high grades to a collegiate investment in supportive bonding over long study hours. | Alyssa and Chris kept their wedding flowing in downtown St. Louis. | Lauren and Michael tested a prescription for commitment with a long-distance separation in preparation to be doctors. | Cori and Jim, almost instantly a couple, quickly won her family’s support in his tryout as Santa Claus.

91

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L OV E S TORY

Emily & Chris JUNE 30, 2018

‘Our personalities balance. I think and doubt everything, whereas Chris jumps right in.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCARLETT CREWS PHOTOGRAPHY

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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I n the eye of Chris G’Sell, Emily Johnson was

The deployment of Chris’ brother after U.S.

a “perfect trifecta. She was intelligent, beautiful

Marine Corps boot camp prompted a wedding

and loves Jesus. I wouldn’t have believed when we

in midsummer. At the suggestion of The Rev.

met in dental school that she would be my wife.”

Dale Wunderlich, who had married Emily’s

She graduated two years before Chris at

parents, they engaged the Shrine of St. Joseph

the University of Missouri-Kansas City and

in downtown St. Louis for a family-centered Mass

they remained casual friends from afar. She had

and ceremony and planned a reception nearby at

impressed him as a student, as well as a kind

the Marriott St. Louis Grand. Father Wunderlich

person. She appreciated being on a pedestal, but

married them and Deacon Jim G’Sell, uncle and

was slower to react. Emily said, “I always knew in

godfather, prepared them and offered a homily.

my heart he was a special person. He was always

“M y f o c u s wa s a l ways o n getting married, not the details,”

smiling and caring.”

Wedding symbol.

‘A summer thunderstorm was right over the church during the ceremony. Thunder was a natural blessing. We never saw a drop of rain,’ Emily said.

The school gap led them down paths not

Emily said. She appreciated that Chris relished

destined for dating. After graduating in Kansas

planning “the biggest party of our lives” with her

City, he worked in Texas. Emily returned to

in beautiful surroundings.

St. Louis upon her 2011 graduation and eventu-

Emily borrowed her mother’s wedding garter

ally took over a dental practice in Kirkwood,

with a blue flower, wrapped lace from her mom’s

She named it Magnolia Family Dental after a

gown around her bouquet handle and borrowed

tree symbolizing “home” in her parents’ yard in

a grandmother’s wedding ring. A handkerchief

Arnold. Chris, who grew up at Lake St. Louis,

given as her baptismal bonnet usefully wiped

Mementos for guests.

moved back to town a year later, luckily when she

perspiration on the 100-degree day while taking

The dentists inscribed their names and wedding date on toothbrushes which guests used as party props.

was more relaxed after her initial business stress.

photos in Lafayette Park. Each of six attendants

Since then, he has joined Eureka Dental Group.

chose a long dress in a blush shade, softly contrast-

They extended brunch in January 2017 to

Family, including Emily’s brother and Chris’

When Chris quickly sent roses to “brighten up your Monday,” she decided his choice of yellow was “safe” for friendship.

six younger siblings, accepted assignments. Moms

A kiss cam at a Blues game soon thereafter,

FatPocket’s music filled the night with

pictured them together for friends – and one

dancing and sing-alongs for 280 guests – includ-

of Emily’s all-female crew at Magnolia – to see.

ing 27 dentists. With groomsmen for backup,

They took a measured path to marriage. Emily

Chris sang Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together” to his

took longer to convince. “The summer before we

bride. His family initiated a surprise flash mob

got engaged, we went to Table Rock and Jet-Skied

dance to Bruno Mars’ “Uptown Funk.”

with my family and had so much fun together. At that moment, I did not have any doubt.”

A dream team.

Emily: ‘He brings out the kid in me.’

Chris: ‘She is intelligent, beautiful and loves Jesus.’

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STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

ing men’s blue formalwear.

catch up. Each wondered if it was a first date.

were Eucharistic ministers, sisters presented Mass gifts and read Scripture. A dad offered prayers intentions and a cousin sang, “Ave Maria.”

A family Bible, the bride’s gift to the groom, now has inscriptions about both families. The

Chris planned to propose near her home

photo album they compiled for guests’ wishes

after Thanksgiving. Rushed and flustered before

now holds treasured sentiments in their St. Louis

meeting her parents to make pasta, she wondered

Hills home, too.

why he would upgrade his outfit to walk their

Anticipating the future, Emily said, “He

dog, Harley, in Francis Park. With her usual keen

brings out the kid in me. Even before we knew

eye, Emily spotted “someone creepy in full camo

we would get married, I knew he would be a great

taking our picture behind a tree.” Chris had

dad. Now I am excited for whatever happens next

enlisted his sister to capture the moment, so he

and enjoying the ride together.” Chris doesn’t

quickly got down on a knee. Emily, wearing an old

expect the attraction to wane. Emily, he said,

blue hoodie, called it “the sweetest proposal ever.”

elicits his “full engagement” when she is around.

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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PA R T Y PL A N S

the team

The wedding party HONOR THOSE WHO LOVE AND CARE ABOUT YOU.

On your wedding day, people who surround you should

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

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Most weddings range from four to seven. One groomsman

be those you care about and trust. Bridal attendants and

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 the officiant’s guidelines - may determine if a parent makes an entrance with his or her 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, a basket of rose petals to scatter, or baby roses to pass to guests.

Happy couples are our goal and we will do everything we can to ensure your day is magical! We offer a romantic setting for your ceremony and a beautiful reception area where your friends and family can celebrate.

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

GlenMark Farms is the perfect place to get married!

3500 Hempstead Street | St. Charles, MO 63301 • 636-255-FARM glenmarkfarms@gmail.com | www.glenmarkfarms.com

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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(314) 258-4206

Elegant dĂŠcor and linen creations with attention to details!

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 34

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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

9-12 MONTHS

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.

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

events you, your spouse-to-be and your families may ever orchestrate. A solid plan

 Choose members of the wedding

 Select a date and time for the wedding

implement them to 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

countdown

E S SE N T I A L S

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

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

9-12 MONTHS

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.

 Select a date and time for the wedding

 Narrow down ceremony and

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

events you, your spouse-to-be and your families may ever orchestrate. A solid plan

and procedures  Select catering service, if not

implement them to calendars

 Arrange for parents to get together,

provided by reception site

reception sites and book them

perhaps at an engagement party or informally over dinner  Begin to compile guest list

 Visit www.stlouisbestbridal.com to

 Discuss budget with everyone who may contribute financially; establish priorities, including honeymoon  Interview potential wedding planners

(a popular location may book 18

 Select officiant and visit with him or her to discuss wedding preparation and procedures  Select catering service, if not provided by reception site  Visit www.stlouisbestbridal.com

 Narrow down ceremony and reception sites and book them (a popular location may book 18

to announce – for free – your

months in advance or open reser-

engagement online and in the local

vations only 12 months before date)

St. Louis Post-Dispatch

announce – for free – your engage-

months in advance or open reser-

 Close in on style, theme and colors

Download the timeline to track your progress.

StLouisBestBridal.com  Planning Tools

ment online and in the local St. Louis Post-Dispatch

vations only 12 months before date)  Close in on style, theme and colors

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6-9 MONTHS

 Attend pre-wedding counseling as required or desired  Reserve location of rehearsal dinner  Arrange lodging for out-of-towners  Select and order formal wear for

 Book photographer and videographer  Book ceremony musicians and reception band or DJ

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

 Reserve party rental equipment

tion as needed: to the church, from

(tables, chairs, tents, lighting)

church to reception, from recep-

 Shop for and order bridal gown and

tion to after-party or where you will

accessories

spend your wedding night  Meet with travel agent to plan honeymoon and make reservations  Secure travel documentation; renew/get passports

 Pick up wedding rings; arrange for engraving or check for accuracy  Have final fitting of wedding gown, 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  Finish addressing invitations  Meet with caterer to discuss plans  Select florist

for food at the reception

 Select bridesmaids’ dresses

 Complete honeymoon plans

 Close in on final guest list, addresses

 If not already noted on calendars, fill

 Arrange wedding cake tastings, then

in time for securing marriage license

order a favorite

(See ‘Sign on the Dotted Line’)

 Research honeymoon spots and

 Set time for any bridal photography

select travel agent

beyond the wedding day

 Mail save-the-date cards, especially

 Select gifts for parents, attendants and each other  Mail invitations six weeks before wedding, earlier if destination

for destination or holiday wedding

wedding or if many travel; design,

 Make master to-do list; keep copies

test-drive map for out-of-towners  Decide on insurance policies and

only with those who need to know  Consider items for registry

name-change documents  Write and order programs for ceremony

4-6 MONTHS

 Attend bridal shower(s)  Select and order wedding rings

2-4

 Set appointments with hairstylist/ makeup consultant for rehearsal and

WEEKS

wedding day  Select gifts for attendants  Choose favors and guest book

 Final gown alteration appointment;

 Complete cake order, if necessary

bring along maid of honor to learn

 Book room for wedding night

to bustle it  Prepare information to announce

4-8  Order wedding invitations, thank-

WEEKS

36

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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

you notes and personal stationery (earlier is better)

wedding after the big day at

 Plan menus for rehearsal dinner

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

caterer with final counts

 Finalize seating arrangements  Finish place cards for reception  Provide rehearsal and wedding-day schedules to 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 helpers  Finalize rehearsal and rehearsal dinner; confirm attending numbers  Double-check details with vendors  Confirm honeymoon details and finish packing  Groom: Have hair trimmed  Attend any remaining bachelor/ bachelorette party (hold earlier,

YOUR BIG DAY

if possible)  Pass along any challenges that pop

 Eat a healthy breakfast and

up at the last minute to those who

drink lots of water to avoid

can resolve them

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

 Write down and pass along any

 Pick up remaining rental attire

last-minute contingency plans

 Attend rehearsal and review all

that occur to you.

details with participants  Enjoy rehearsal dinner, greet family

 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 and remain calm. Do not let anything slightly amiss interfere with your joy.  Cherish each moment of this

 Have hair and makeup done

special day with your new life

according to early plan.

partner and those gathered to

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

marriage license.

and maid of honor sign the

celebrate with you.  If you leave early, say goodbye to parents and grandparents, .

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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L OV E S TORY

Lauren & Michael O C TO B E R 2 1 , 2 0 1 7

‘Why wait anymore? I wouldn’t want to spend my life with anyone else.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOTOAJOY PHOTOGRAPHY

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

39

T hey first discovered their dorm was co-ed

celebratory glass of wine and, true to their love

when Lauren Waible and Mike Beal moved into

of activity, headed to a scheduled kickball game

rooms across the hall. The bigger surprise to the

with friends.

Saint Louis University sophomores was that it introduced them to a lifetime of love.

outdoors on Oct. 21, 2017, the one open date at

“It was definitely love at first sight for me,”

Glen Echo Country Club, and filled it with fun.

Lauren said. “When we went away for the

After her mother helped her dress, the bride-to-be

summer, Mike realized he liked me, too.”

had first looks with her dad and her bridesmaids.

They quickly became best friends.

The couple’s joy filled every moment.

“We both had similar goals with pre-med.

“The aisle was a huge walk from the clubhouse

We had a lot of fun together, but both of us

down this grassy hill. I just remember seeing

were goal-oriented,” Mike said. “Our first major

Lauren and how beautiful she looked. Her veil

Bride’s happy view.

challenge was when we went to separate medical

‘I don’t think either of us has ever smiled so much as we did that day.

I picture the two of us looking at each other with the beautiful sky and everybody being there.’

schools. I was in St. Louis and Lauren headed

was blowing in the wind and I remember that smile. It was just perfect,” Mike said.

Their priority.

Everyone travels from near or far to be with the bride and groom on their wedding day. Each deserves a personal greeting.

to Erie, Pa. We agreed to give a long-distance relationship our best shot.”

athletic shoes glistened and she lined up an array

summer vacation. Cincinnati, Ohio, became their

of flavored candies for s’mores. She reflected the

mid-way weekend destination. And they talked

night with getaway sparklers and photos.

as much as possible.

At last, schedules matched. Mike accepted

tinged religious elements with a modern approach at the relaxed ceremony. Lauren’s friend played the

University and Lauren returned to St. Louis

violin and the couple gave roses to their parents.

“One of the most special parts was our

“Doing daily life together might have been

customized vows. We wrote them together and

a challenge, but that chemistry we had never

they were somewhat traditional, but also had

went anywhere,” Mike said. Lauren agreed,

aspects unique to us as a couple,” Mike said.

saying, “We were so happy to be

With all events in one locaton, the wedding

together and did not have to say goodbye all the time.”

party of five bridesmaids and seven groomsmen

Although they never intended to date so He likened the decision to flipping a switch.

- wearing colors of navy, burgundy and gold could join their friends, too.

Lauren and Mike took time-for-two.They were on their own for photos at Glen Echo during

“Why wait anymore?” he finally asked

guests’ cocktail hour. At the reception, they chose

himself. “I wouldn’t want to spend my life with

a sweetheart table where they enjoyed toasts and

anyone else.” He went into action.

dinner, then headed around to greet each of more

Groom’s duties.

The first plan on Oct. 30, 2016, during a “family” hike with Norton, their adopted dog,

than 150 guests, many of them now in the medical field across the country.

failed. A friend unexpectedly came along and

Each table held a numbered journal for guests

Mike tripped and suffered a concussion while

to write good wishes. The Beals will read each one

corralling Norton off-trail. A second try in Forest

on the corresponding anniversary year.

Park two days later ended up in the dark, so he chose the lighted World’s Fair Pavilion.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

A relative in the American Catholic Church

a residency in radiology through Washington

long, it was nine years before Mike proposed.

Transportation: golf cart on the country club grounds and a vintage 1956 Rolls Royce for their getaway to an overnight hotel suite.

The bride added sparkly items. Her comfy

They headed back to St. Louis for events and

University for family medicine.

40

They targeted an elegant autumn wedding

The new Mr. and Mrs. Beal first danced to Ray LaMontagne’s “You Are the Best Thing.”

“Being silly, I threw a pebble into the dry

Brad Emanuel, a one-man band from the bride’s

fountain and told Mike to do the same,” Lauren

family’s favorite vacation spot in northern

recalled. Mike shared his wish as he knelt on one

Wisconsin, invited newlyweds and guests to

knee: “That you would say, ‘Yes.’” They drank a

spend the evening on the dance floor.

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

ESSENTIALS

finances

5 steps to

GET ORGANIZED 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

4

start to finish, organization is imperative. A

will contribute payment. Compromise and

should be paid disorganizes bride and groom

few management priorities help keep wedding

imaginative ideas save the day and progress

and any other person responsible for making

planning in check and on schedule.

toward an event everyone remembers with joy

payments. Enter each item. Note how it is

and heartfelt fondness. Couples, particularly

purchased ‒ by check, credit or cash. Was it

older brides and grooms, often pay a major

Take time to think

paid online? List what it buys. Extra columns

part or all their wedding expenses. Parents may

show how much is due, by when and how you

Becoming married takes an “I do.”

play a less traditional role by paying for an

expect to pay. Immediately list an expense

No rule about who pays for what is set in

item like flowers or offering a specific amount

when incurred and paid even in part, filling

stone. See our traditional lists on the next page

toward a single or total bill.

in appropriate columns with details.

Sit down and decide

3

5

Before setting plans in motion, decide

a spreadsheet to your taste. Color-code,

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

extra-special 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.

1

to see where your wedding may adapt.

2

42

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

➝

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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

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

Save all receipts Print out every receipt for the wedding

WHO PAYS FOR WH AT

THE BRIDE AND HER FAMILY ✤

Clothes for bride and her parents

✤

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

✤

Reception expenses: site, decorations, food, drink, music, cake, favors, photo booth

✤

Transportation of wedding party and others as needed to various sites: preparation, ceremony, photo locations, reception, after-party

✤

Wedding photography/videography

✤

Accommodations for special out-of-town relatives/guests

THE GROOM AND HIS FAMILY ✤

Rehearsal dinner

✤

Marriage license and officiant fee

✤

Clothing for groom and his family

✤

Wedding ring and gift for bride

✤

Gifts for groomsmen/ushers

✤

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

✤

Transportation for groom and best man to ceremony

✤

Honeymoon arrangements

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

43

ESSENTIALS

marriage license

LOC ATION TO CALL

In Missouri FRANKLIN COUNTY 636-583-6367 Union JEFFERSON COUNTY 636-797-5414 Hillsboro

Sign on

THE DOTTED LINE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS TOP ‘MUST DO’ LIST. Before two people head to the ceremony and run off into matrimonial bliss, they must

also bars a person 21 or older from marrying anyone 17 or younger.

apply for a marriage license. A legitimate offi-

Before the ceremony, even on the same

ciant will not marry a couple without one in

day, a couple must appear together at the

hand. Rules vary between states, as marriage

recorder of deeds office in any Missouri

LINCOLN COUNTY 636-528-0325 Troy

is considered a civil contract between a state

county or the city of St. Louis. No blood

and two people initiating it.

test is required.

Where a wedding is performed, not where

Each must show a valid form of govern-

ST. CHARLES COUNTY 636-949-7506 St. Charles

the couple lives, determines where a license

ment-issued identification, such as a current

should be secured. If the ceremony destina-

passport, state ID or driver’s license, which

tion is not Missouri or Illinois, the website

lists date of birth. Unless the Social Security

ST. LOUIS CITY 314-622-3257 or 622-4527 St. Louis

www.usmarriagelaws.com can be consulted

number is on the ID, a Social Security card is

for any other state.

also required in Missouri. A person without

ST. LOUIS COUNTY 314-615-7180 Clayton WARREN COUNTY 636-456-9800 Warrenton

Marriage license requirements change often by state, even between counties, so it

a Social Security number must sign a form of verification.

is MOST important to verify ALL informa-

The marriage license is valid in any

tion with the local marriage license office or

county, but only in Missouri. The ceremony

county clerk where you will be married before

must take place within 30 days of the license

making wedding or travel plans. Each county

being issued. If an individual is divorced, a

also directs its own schedule for a courthouse

final decree must be at least 30 days before

marriage by a judge.

application, although some counties allow variations.

In Illinois MADISON COUNTY 618-692-6290 Edwardsville

Getting Married IN THE SHOW-ME STATE

MONROE COUNTY 618-939-8681, ext. 302 Waterloo JERSEY COUNTY 618-498-5571, ext. 112 Jerseyville CLINTON COUNTY 618-594-6620 Carlyle

44

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

about $50 must be paid with the application.

The state of Missouri requires that both

For an extra fee, a certified certificate may be

parties be single and not blood-related.

issued as proof of marriage or as a keepsake.

Recently enacted legislation raised the minimum age to 16 for a marriage license

ST. CLAIR COUNTY 618-277-6600, ext. 2370 Belleville

A cash-only, non-refundable charge of

to be issued and 16- and 17-year-olds must receive parental permission to be married. It

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

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

WHO CAN OFFICIATE

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

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

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

Register NEW NAMES

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

should be returned to the recorder of deeds 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.

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.

BASIC SEVEN TO START

✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤

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

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

45

ESSENTIALS

budget talk

Money matters First, you must decide a budget. All wedding plans hinge on what you plan to spend. Whatever the total, you must resolve together what you want and what you can afford to create those wedding details you want. These decisions lay a creative base for lifetime collaboration.

The annual average amount spent on a St. Louis metro wedding (not including honeymoon) in 2017, according to

The Wedding Report, was $25,842, rising after a low four years ago. No matter who provides statistics, brides and grooms want to celebrate this occasion with family and friends.

Ranges provide a starting point to help figure what your wedding might include. To accommodate expenses ranging toward the high end of a percentage, all categories together must add up to 100 percent.

{ 50% {11 15% RECEPTION

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

PHOTOGRAPHY

˜ 7 10% {

Engagement, videography, wedding, photo booth

{

˜ 4~5% {

Ceremony and reception, transition backdrop for single-venue wedding

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

GIFTS Bride and groom, attendants, parents

{

{

WEDDING RINGS Symbols to wear comfortably forever

REHEARSAL DINNER Site rental, food, beverage, tips

2˜3%1~2%{

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

WISE MANAGER EYES TARGET FUNDS TO SEE TOTAL EVENT

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

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

EXTRAS

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

{

{

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

46

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

6~8% 4 6%

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

MUSIC

˜ {

WEDDING ATTIRE

{

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FA SHION

dress for success

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

48

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 the bride looks - and she is confident she does!

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

PEAR

RECTANGLE

draw a matching style into sight.

Hips, and perhaps thighs, are wider than

Straight line extends from shoulders to waist

shoulders. Simple vertical, rather than

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

pictures and take notes to sort features that

horizontal, lines evenly shape curves. An

geometric roundness with an A-line, frothy

flatter or detract.

off-the shoulder or “V” neckline frames the

and flirtatious skirt or elevated empire waist

face. An A-line gown highlights an indented

for more skirt flow. Off-the-shoulder styles

natural waist so an added detail, such as

widen a top tier. Illusion pieces of embroi-

studded waistband or flowing sash, accents

dered lace play peekaboo with what may or

the top and lets the skirt flow gracefully.

may not hide under sheer fabric. A nipped

Look in the mirror from all angles. Snap

Compare these five body shapes with yours.

Build a base to discover a gown structured for your desired look and comfort. Each design complements a bride’s normal silhouette, but

waist artistically balances high and low

a professional may shape a dream gown into a

canvases. New curves flow with soft, breezy

fit for never-ending applause.

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 scoop

shoulders similar in size. This figure indulges

broader shoulders and less defined waist. The

neckline outlines a lovely neck. Off-shoulder

easy enhancement. All necklines seem to

waistline, wherever drawn, grabs the eye. An

draping minimizes a generous bustline.

work. Glamorize an indented waist and let

empire waist eases lower flow, but a cinched

Popular modesty and illusion pieces balance

natural curves contour this figure-hugging

waist slenderizes the silhouette to balance

a slim bodice to move the eye down along

silhouette. A mermaid gown delights in the

proportion. With or without sheer illusion,

neck-to-knee embellishment. A ball gown

line, a sheath accents it, a cinched waistline

a deeply plunging neckline draws attention

with a full skirt encourages flow, but a

on a ball gown poufs into double (or triple)

away from wide horizontal shoulders to

confident bride’s short gown or high-low

layering of fluffy tulle or other feminine

flatter the bustline. A wide ribbon, slightly

skirt exudes fun with alluring attention to

froth, and a low-flaring style guides an

dropped waist, asymmetrical pleating or

shapely legs and spectacular shoes.

elongated central line.

ruching focuses waistline interest.

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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Delicate corded lace is fully embroidered on straps and sweetheart neckline with a low back. A simple satin waistline sash lets multiple layers of soft tulle flow as they unfold in a semi-cathedral train.

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A fit-and-flare gown from the Beau Monde Couture Made-in-USA collection by WEDDING GALLERY embraces luxurious jersey fabric to invite comfort for Kristin Mueller.

Hand-beaded lace frames a V- neckline bodice, extends over straps and edges a low “V” back, as well as attracts attention around the hips.

A semi-cathedral train has the attractive cut-out lace embellishments, too.

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Daring in the back and elegant topto-toe, a Galina Signature exclusive from DAVID’S BRIDAL tucks surprises into its chic crepe sheath outlined with a clean-lined tank bodice and fitted skirt. It takes a show-stopping turn with swirling beaded illusion details at the sides, back and along a sweep train inset.

Pearl buttons nod to tradition down the back of the light styling. A floral comb stands out in Nicole Garrison’s dark hair.

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For a bride who appreciates intricate details, DAVID’S BRIDAL adds alluring lace appliqued with metallic and pearl accents and leaves a lasting impression with a laced corset back.

Rachel Eise holds a demure bouquet of O’Hara garden rose, feathery white limoneum and blush astilbe at the waist of the mermaid gown, finished with scalloped lace at the sweetheart neckline and hem. Crystals embellish a moldable headband with petals and leaves.

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Layers of whimsical tulle form soft luxury in an A-line gown in the Simply Charming collection of Made-in-USA gowns by WEDDING GALLERY. A luxurious bodice embellished with hand-embroidered lace applique outlines a sweetheart neckline. A sash at the natural waistline of Abby Gelinsky is hand-beaded in crystal and glass.

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A Marishka gown by WToo at MIA GRACE BRIDAL kicks out a stunning skirt below the hip. Inspired by the beauty of limited-edition Fabergé eggs, the design in ivory with an oyster-colored lining includes Pasha motifs, grid lace and soft netting.

“Rose Trellis” vining embroidery and low-back cutout emphasize body contours of Cassidy Haggard. A chapel train completes the dramatic back view.

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A sleeveless Mori Lee gown colored ivory overflows in femininity for the look of Kim Creswell. The design from MIA GRACE BRIDAL places Venice lace appliques sprinkled with delicate beading and light gold around its illusion V-neckline. Covered buttons accent an illusion V-back and the abundant skirt swings with flounced organza ruffles. Its beaded satin belt is removable. The sequinedged scallop of a Giselle veil adds floral points of milky seed beads and crystals.

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A sheath gown of flowing crepe from DAVID’S BRIDAL earns a modern White by Vera Wang reputation with symmetrical lace appliques on the halter neckline, bodice and upper and lower skirt.

Button detailing on the bra-style back pulls the eye toward the skirt punctuated by buttons to the very edge of a comfortable sweep train.

A fingertip veil with lace appliques on a shapely pearl and crystal floral ribbon headband emphasizes Rachel Hooper’s feminine look.

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A simply fantastic gown from MIA GRACE BRIDAL tucks chic surprises into an elegant fit-and-flare silhouette by Eddy K Collections. The shapely weight of ivory-colored silk mikado presents its finished look.

Silver beading adorns sheer cap sleeves and rings the bateau neckline for Melissa McCoy. When attached, its elegant pleated train sits below fabric buttons and detaches from a waistline bow in front.

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Soft French eyelash lace is exquisite on a Made-in-USA gown from the Beau Monde Couture collection of WEDDING GALLERY. A scalloped edge encircles the strapless sweetheart neckline of the A-line gown with hand-beaded, corded lace applique. Worn by Lexi Reinwald, the true ball gown is layered with sequins and mesh for see-through glamour.

Again, scalloped eyelash lace encircles the hem and semi-cathedral lace.

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F E ATUR E S

under cover

Sheer be 62

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eauty

A

bride’s face reflects wedding-day joy, so she wants it to show

unhampered by layers of intrigue.

Bridal gown consultants take her goal seriously.

Megan Rumsey, store manager for The Ultimate Bride, said, “Brides are just looking for that special piece to complete the look. It may not be the same detail as the dress, but it is really a reflection of their personal style. It may have beading, lace or be just plain, but it will be based on the bride’s own personality.”

About half the brides who choose a dress at Mia Grace Bridal decide to wear a veil. They designate it as a specific part of the wedding, added co-owner Madison Smith.

“They only wear it for the ceremony and often take it off after that,” Smith said. “They may have the hairpiece attached or be detachable so it can be left in the hair. Usually, a hairpiece goes in or remains if one isn’t attached. Floral pieces are still very popular. They are almost always fresh flowers from the florist.”

Even dedicated fans of recent royal weddings usually prefer to tone down the royal look with a cathedral-length veil detailed only on the bottom or edge. Long enough to give the impression that it is a regal train, a cathedral-length veil can be bustled for wearing through the first dance, then removed for ease and comfort during the remaining reception, Rumsey noted.

“Even a fingertip veil may have the same design on an edge detailing three-dimensional flowers. Beading will never go out of style in the bridal world,” she added, “but a look of crystals may just edge it ot be integrated onto the floral design.”

Smith, pointing out borders often range from ¼-inch to 2 or 3 inches wide, added, “Brides are doing simpler veils to keep the dress as a main focus. Even those who do a cathedral length keep it simpler with a lace border, but not beading all over the veil. Beaded details used to look similar, but now designers are starting to match those to be more cohesive with the gown. There still may be an intricate beaded pattern or scallop, but it will be at the edge. This allows a more modern, heavier damask lace in that outline.”

Photos of Toni Frederici Veils supplied by THE ULTIMATE BRIDE Story by JANICE DENHAM

Today’s bride avoids distractions to her gown. An untrimmed edge of veil Cindy, fingertip in length and unadorned, takes the trend to its ultimate conclusion.

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UNIQUE COMBINATIONS

Rumsey listed examples of gown-veil combos chosen with personality. ✤ A veil designed to showcase a woman’s hairstyle is shorter in back and longer on the sides. ✤ More layers, although unadorned, produce more volume to note “bride for the day” status. ✤ A minimalist gown – in length or design – may beckon a bride to choose a longer or cathedral-length veil for emphasis. ✤ “A lot of brides this year are trending toward a waltz-length veil, which is supposed to hit below the back of a knee, between a fingertip and cathedral look. Its design doesn’t look like an afterthought or a semi-formal item,” Rumsey said.

Brides at Mia Grace Bridal, according to Smith, like the drama of a long veil to stop at the floor. One who likes gold or rose gold may select a hairpiece with that color in threading or beading.

Taking a minimal look further, a veil may finish with a simple rolled edge – or leave it untrimmed. Pearls and light, clear beading may be placed intricately but be less reflective at the edge for today’s bride.

Smith said color choices determine “the whole package” direction. “Blush, light gold, champagne help tie in the cohesive look because the same colors may line her gown for faint reflection,” she said.

Rumsey envisioned more traditional ivory on the near-future horizon, but every bride has a preference, so a light blue veil, perfectly matched to her dress, will prevail, too.

Most veils are made of tulle, which varies in structure and even color. Spanish tulle, or English netting, produces less pouf and slightly heavier draping for pictures. Another edge may be horsehair, used to define simple elegance, a technique designers use in gowns.

“Even among the most uniquely dressed brides, every idea flows into another cohesive choice – and that includes the veil,” Smith said.

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Previous page, top, left to right, Silk Georgette ribbon provides a dramatic and luxurious edge in a circular-style veil, called Chiffon, which acts as a tiered blusher in a romantic “unveiling” moment. Fabric folds to drop longer in back as it ripples elegantly with fabulous flow. | In a waltz length, the Devi is slim and unassuming. A narrow, but heavy, embellishment of Swarovski pearls and crystals at the edge details the gown below and appears again in a hairpiece. | Previous page, bottom, Providing a frame for the exciting gown of choice, Love Story veil in full chapel length offers a cascading shape with large French Alençon lace applique placed intermittently at the edge.

Above, In a single layer, Astonish is a full-cut veil, fingertip in length, with intricate beadwork along the garden lace border. The embellished top rises to a dramatic peak for height and flare in the back. | Right, from top, Fingertip-length tiers double the style of a Coco veil. Embroidered French Chantilly lace on one length complements the simplicity of a classic gown, while a shorter layer becomes a ceremonial blusher. | The happy bride’s smile radiates from a waist-length double-layered Halo veil to welcome hugs. Satin ribbon trim grounds the flirty sweetness and a blusher plays the reveal layer in a ceremony or can be worn back for added volume.

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FA SHION

princess dresses

Merry Mini Maids Whether one or a dozen in number, a youthful flower girl takes over the aisle with flowers flowing and dreams imagined of when she takes center stage. With simplicity or sumptuous sentiment, the dress prefaces the bride’s own style as she assumes center stage next down the aisle.

Left to right, Lace and shimmer adorn a sleeveless bodice and waist, front and back, of the princess’s full-length gown in ivory dreamily detailed by Amalee with a delicate illusion neckline and full tulle skirt. The back closes with a keyhole opening and crisp and sparkling piece of lace extended at the waist. | Fancying an urge to dance in circles, a flower girl wears a Joan Calabrese by Mon Cheri A-line dress. An illusion bateau neckline overlay shows off ivory hand-beaded lace in front and keyhole back trimmed with covered buttons.

The wire-edged hem on a gathered tulle skirt, blush in color, increases the swirl at mid-calf. | A tea-length A-line in pink satin and tulle, sleeveless dress has slender straps that band an illusion mock-halter neckline.

Also a sweet Joan Calabrese by Mon Cheri, a little-girl dress floats with a large satin flower at the waist, where a wide band of satin gathers a multi-layered tulle circle skirt. Crystal buttons step down the back. | Long, sheer lace sleeves of a treasured Bari Jay dress in ivory imitate the bride as a mini forecast of inspiring wedding details to come. The ankle-length gown has a gathered skirt of English netting for softly feminine flair.

Photography by TROTTER PHOTO | Gowns provided by MIA GRACE BRIDAL

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precious

F E AT U R E S

All Dolled Up! Photography by TROTTER PHOTO Dresses provided by FREW’S BRIDAL AND FORMAL WEAR

Give wedding-worthy fabric and thread to seamstresses at Frew’s Bridal and Formal Wear and they whip up dresses that will put a favorite 18-inch doll in elegant party attire.

“There are no two of a kind. We have them displayed on our floor with the gowns,” Barb Williams, general manager, said. “They just get creative as they are inspired.”

Frew’s doesn’t take special orders, but keeps an imaginative variety on hand.

Local seamstresses add individual flair without set guidelines. Most imitate a floor-length bridal model, although some make their playsome entry in ankle-length or shorter.

Clockwise, from bottom left: Double-toned silver with shiny-centered flowers, royal blue with hand-sewn crystals and sequins on a velvetembellished bodice; bridal tiers with pearl necklace accented in black and red, and a black dress with slim underskirt of silver ribbons and removable overskirt of fluffy black tulle.

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F E ATUR E S

registry details

styled to dazzle Fitting day-to-day needs or outfitting this special occasion makes sharing fun. Shopping for a personal registry widens the range of prospects for a bride and groom to share with special guests, too.

Items provided by DILLARD’S REGISTRY | Photography by TROTTER PHOTO

lady in red  Rose hue on Gianni Bini metallic clutch with retractable chain.

Feather-and-bow bedecked Anna & Ava fascinator on headband and Michael Kors Portia watch with gold-tone and clasp-closed pave stainless steel bracelet, round dial and pave subdial.

 timely fun Water-resistant Lexington watch by Michael Kors – with stainless steel bracelet, clasp closure and round case – has sunray chronograph dial.

Both wear polarized Ray-Ban sunglasses – Justin for him, aviator with gold frames, above, for her.

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

pearls and vintage

Sweet and sentimental keepsakes from Nadri.

Earrings dangle with eye-catching crystals on secure lever backs, pendant closes with lobster clasp and Willow bangle bracelet with pearl wrap closes on hinge.

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Kate Landry stocks up on glitter for minaudiere (slightly bigger than a clutch), left, silver flocked and, right, with crushed multi-colored crystals. Each has retractable metal chain and top metal closure.



 glamour glitters

from the top

Glittery hair bands with elastic for fit and a flower headband from Anna & Ava fit on a green, frayed satin pashmina by Vince Camuto.



from the heart

Joy of My Heart design from James Avery for ring, ear posts and hook-on bracelet. Perfect mother-daughter gift, too.

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FA SHION

keepsake

Start with a clean gown The groom may not be aware of it, but there is another love affair in the works for the bride.

It involves her gown. It has become her dream.

She wears it once and ... certainly doesn’t want it to feel jilted. So, she finds a place where she can let it sit or hang out.

She may have it preserved professionally in hopes that it is treated with utmost care for a valued future together. Or, she may try to do it herself.

CLEAN, THEN STORE As suggested by American Cleaners, the important starting point is to have the gown cleaned as soon as possible. Stains, both visible and invisible, are culprits responsible for leaving haunting marks over

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CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR WEDDING ENGAGEMENT!

Lawrence Florist FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY, SELECT

est. 1961

WEDDING FLOWERS & ACCESSORIES

EXCEEDING OUR BRIDE’S EXPECTATIONS FOR 50 YEARS time. A reputable dry cleaner knows better how to handle embellishments of varying materials and should be expected to work in a clean environment.

Secondly, the gown should not be stored in

free Toss Bouquet (a $30 value) with your wedding flower order

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an attic or basement. Optimally, its environment should be cool, dry and stable, around 40 to 55 percent humidity and 60 to 65 degrees.

The area should be free of insects and mold, too.

Light can damage textiles, resulting in fading of dyes, yellowing and deterioration of fibers. Storing it in a box or a fabric garment bag in a dark place out of sunlight protects it best from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Chemicals, such as mothballs, are not recommended as safe additions. Cedar wood chips or storage in a cedar chest do not aid the process either. A container that “breathes” is preferred over one that is sealed. This precludes drycleaners’ poly bags from long-term storage.

It may be difficult to find a perfect location in a home, but it is best to choose one that fits as many of these qualifications as possible.

BOX IT OR LET IT HANG White, acid-free tissue paper helps absorb acids from the gown and its surroundings, whether it is stored in a box or hung. Used as a cushion between gently folded layers, it can be replaced over time to constantly keep it as fresh as possible.

Professional preservation usually delivers

Congratulations on Your Engagement!

Celebrate your marriage with a wedding as unique and special as your love story.

1401 Olive Rd., New Haven, MO 63068 / Phone: (855) 778-7222 Facebook.com/VisitCedarCreek / Twitter: @VisitCedarCreek

W W W.V I S I T C E D A R C R E E K . C O M

the gown in a box, so it is bet to follow this plan. If hung, a dress supported at the waist avoids seam damage at the neckline, shoulders and waistband.

Also a cover of choice may be a bag made from desized unbleached muslin or a bedsheet with no durable-press finish that has been washed with neither fabric softener nor bleach and rinsed very well. The same fabric may be used for padding the gown’s folds.

Whether it is saved to share or use, this can be one long-term affair.

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L OV E S TORY

Kimberly & Owen SEPTEMBER 9, 2017

‘We watered a “money tree” at the same time. Rooting together, we can grow.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHAMELEON IMAGERY

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K im Flatley and Owen Gray started dating

matched dresses of bridesmaids and Oscar wore a

in 2008 when she was still a junior at Ritenour

tuxedo-styled bandana and flower in red, another

High School. They went to see “Halloween” and

color match. (Read the bride’s guidelines

quickly became “exclusive but a little private. We

for including pets in wedding plans on

dated for eight years,” Owen said.

page 120.)

His personality attracted her. “He wasn’t all

The dogs joined the intimate bridal party after

show, but genuinely nice. We like being active and

the ceremony for photos at the newlyweds’ St.

he got along with my dog. Molly died in 2009 and

John home. The newlyweds enjoyed the breeze

he brought me dough to make cookies together

stirred while jumping on a trampoline, but left

and make me feel better. Friendship built

the dogs home to recuperate from the exciting day.

the foundation. He has a good smile and personality.”

A grandmother’s handkerchief, which the bride held in her bouquet, was handy for happy

Similar interests was a deal-maker for Owen.

tears of her sister, matron of honor, during the

“One time she bought me a Jackie Chan movie

vow exchange. Kim attached her grandfather’s

for my birthday. I picked her up and kissed her.

pin to a blue garter, which later spanned a mini

She was so surprised,” he said, amused at the

football to entice single gentlemen to catch it at

memory. “Another time we went bowling but

the reception. The wedding party returned to

ended up getting food and talked four hours

Queeny Park for photos and joined 160 guests

until the place closed.”

for an indoor reception at the Dog Museum.

First impression.

He was the ‘goofy guy’ in 2006 when Kim, high school freshman, watched Owen, the senior who lived down the street, sprint four blocks to catch the bus while it rounded a curve. Once aboard, he would go back to sleep.

The lengthy time dating seemed short. “We

Two homemade take-home gifts expressed

were never in a rush to get married because neither

their gratitude. Jerk sauce composed at an uncle’s

of us really planned on going anywhere without

restaurant added the spice of Jamaica, where

the other,” Kim wrote on their wedding website.

Owen was born and grew up. The couple also

Tentative at first about New Year’s Eve plans

A family dance, with bride and groom center-

and relatives, a plan initiated with the support

ing a circle, included all their parents using

of Kim’s best friend, to release Japanese lanterns

favorite dance songs. Kim’s father passed away

at the Grand Basin in Forest Park. “It was our

five weeks later.

turn as we made a circle and say what we were thankful for,” Kim said.

The ceremony.

‘I am glad we did our own vows.

Mine were finished but he got up early and worked on them all morning. We had laughter, tears and claps.’

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melted chocolate into poodle shapes.

in 2015, they boarded a party bus with friends

They started with romantic music, then moved into upbeat tunes and straight into

Owen went last. Cuing “their” song, Mavado’s

cake-cutting. They surprised the baker by request-

“Heart Beat,” he proposed on one knee. “The

ing “peanut butter jelly cake” with buttercream

whole night turned into a party,”

frosting and strawberry filling. Owen’s uncle

Kim added.

made a separate Jamaican-style rum cake

Two ideas decisively guided wedding-to-be

Kim added, “Of course, the

plans. First, it would not be extravagant. Second,

opening song for dancing was ‘Who Let the Dogs Out’ by the Baja Men.”

pet poodles Leah and Oscar would participate.

They settled on the familiar AKC Museum of the Dog in Queeny Park where Kim, whose business

They finished the night at Ameristar Casino

connects exercise for dogs with their humans,

with a few friends, including a couple married

has held classes.

just a week. They plan a second warm honeymoon

Kim’s dad, weak from cancer and in hospice

in winter 2019, since Hurricane Irma recovery

Their strength.

care with cancer, and her mother entered together

tempered a trip to Florida just after the wedding.

‘Diversity ... we always seem to be learning from each other.’

and Owen’s parents walked in partnerships, too.

“We enjoy each other’s company and time

After Kim’s twin nieces dropped petals, the bride

spent working on each of our businesses at home

appeared with the dogs. Flower garlands bedecked

together,” said Owen, a web developer. “We work

the white slip leads. Leah’s purple-painted nails

well together and our friendship continues.”

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diversity

FL O W E R S

Say it with

COLOR A florist builds a bouquet by tone, texture and style to provide a colorful look you love. Ask which hues of these flowers are available when. In-season blooms generally can be found to match both style and budget, but even unusual requests can be prioritized because of worldwide availability. The list reflects old favorites, perennial blossoms and newer blooms. This bouquet’s soft country look combines old-fashioned garden blooms.

PALETTE BLOCKS INDICATE COLORS OFTEN AVAILABLE BY FLOWER

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

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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

h s i v Lyaers la

garden blooms

ON T H E COV E R

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Opening page, A bouquet from ALWAYS IN BLOOM tips the scale in lush beauty with burgundy spray and blush roses, wine-colored peonies, blue thistle, dainty Blushing Bride pink protea and Safari Sunset leucadendron. Hanging amaranthus, plumosa fern, green Italian ruscus and silver eucalyptus drape its beauty in abundant greenery. Left, ALWAYS IN BLOOM turns to butterscotch – light in roses, warm in flowing ribbon – to contrast lavender stock, hot pink spray roses, thistle and pennycress amid caspia, green hydrangea, thistle and olive branch greens. Above, Colorful blooms punctuate a bouquet by SCHNUCKS FLORAL AND GIFTS. Vintage blue-and-green hydrangea provide a canvas for blue delphinium, red garden roses, richly dark mini calla lilies and lavender caspia. Seeded eucalyptus and Italian ruscus add the foliage.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TROTTER PHOTO

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Left, Burgundy peonies and astilbe and creamy Quicksand roses contrast in a big way with silver brunia berries. LAWRENCE FLORIST wraps up the stylish bouquet with pearls set on burgundy satin. Above, Playmates in pink – spray roses, astilbe and tropical protea – emote wedding joy when LAWRENCE FLORIST puts them in a joyful pose amid navy-eyed white anemones and dusty miller. Pearls again line up on ribbon, this time in popular gray, to hold multi-colored stems.

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Above, LAWRENCE FLORIST unlocks wild fun with lotus pods, Orange Crush roses, Free Spirit roses and burgundy astilbe. Contrasts come with seeded eucalyptus and slick magnolia leaves. Right, A garden bouquet from SCHNUCKS FLORAL AND GIFTS selects Quicksand and garden roses to stand out with dark-buttoned scabiosa, striking pink protea, waxflowers, caspia and brunea berries. Fantastic foliage includes seeded eucalyptus and leaves of tropical monstera and aspidistra.

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PA R T Y PL A N S

in sight

What to ask a 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-andwhite, sepia, spotlights or other – might our photographs display?

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

Looks of

love

the price include? Are other options or products available? At The wedding day is a milestone chapter on a bride and groom’s love

what cost?

story. It should be told in their own voice – with helpful interpretation

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?

by a professional photographer.

Samples of a potential photographer’s work display glimpses into ways memories might picture that romance in bloom.

Experience gives the person behind the camera an edge on telling this

Style

Do you work primarily in a natural artistic style –

to assess a potential specialist’s work and style. Digital photos allow the

in a studio or vary locations? Are engagement photos included?

photographic style of single or multiple photographers shine without

Where may we take them? Who picks sites? Do you have options

taking over the spontaneity.

to suggest in inclement weather?

Experience

Teamwork is crucial, so watch how office staff interacts and the courtesy 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

embraced or if the photographer is fixed on established ideas. Completed

we 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?

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story, so a feeling of rapport should be evident when a couple sits down

traditional, photojournalistic or is it mixed? Do you like to shoot

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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

Opposite page, Rachel Warhover and Kyle Schloesser stroll on the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus on Oct. 27, 2018, their wedding day. Left, Meg Davis and Pete Oppliger share a quiet moment at Forest Park on Sept. 29, 2018. | Above, The autumn scene is set for Amanda Furrer and her bridesmaids at Bee Tree Park on Nov. 3, 2018, the day she and Stephen Myers exchanged wedding vows.

Photos provided by TROTTER PHOTO

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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ON T HE COV E R

toe-tappers

Keep the

rhythm

By JANICE DENHAM

Music IN THE GROOVE ✤ Is ready at the outset

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

For the bride and groom seeking a potential

fanfare and silence would follow the couple’s

fit for their list of preferences provided, a music

rhythmic dance steps.

professional provides the first hint. Is there an

✤ Paces events ✤ Moves with wedding’s pulse

Something would be missing.

extensive catalog? Does a couple’s “must-play”

Melodic entertainment holds a wedding

list fit there? A couple always should include

together. Thus, another wedding “star” ascends

what they do not want to hear on their

✤ Engages many guests

to orchestrate, but not take over proceedings of

day-of-days.

✤ Enhances flow

this long-awaited day.

✤ Connects a wide range of ages

Jordan Sweet, seasoned DJ and a manager

CEREMONY STARTS PLAY

✤ Matches style of wedding

with Complete Weddings + Events, said, “Events

“My favorite clients are the ones who know

✤ Moves with the production

require some structure and control. Someone

what they want but also are willing to listen

✤ Follows a prepared plan

must run the show with the microphone and let

to some of my ideas,” said Sweet, who started

✤ Progresses in orderly fashion

people know where to go.” Finding a professional

forming a professional style at age 14. “I can fill

who can put their dreams in order is the goal of

in the holes when you point me in a direction.

a couple planning their wedding.

Everyone draws off that energy.”

✤ Looks as good as it sounds ✤ Responds to on-site situations

88

with at least a few ideas gives initial clues.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

“Everyone has a style and it is important

A venue like a church may designate instru-

for the bride and groom to find someone they

ments, accompanist and soloist, but some

can communicate with well. It is an opportu-

reasonable aspects may be negotiable. An

nity to make those lofty expectations come to

outdoor venue certainly may have guidelines

life,” he said.

for music, too.

The ability to determine what they want

A single location for ceremony and

in music needs someone who can interpret and

reception does not limit diverse sounds for a

channel intentions. Coming to a meeting armed

music coordinator experienced in replicating

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

preferred backgrounds at designated moments.

Sweet said the music always should set

advance team effort should start the moment a

getting to know Uncle Dave and finding out

specialist is chosen.

how the longest married couple danced to

the scene. Current favorites are instrumen-

Pleasing the bride and groom first, then the

‘Unchained Melody’ at their own wedding, then

tals and classics. Opportunity runs the gamut

immediate family, does not leave guests behind.

inviting them to offer advice to the newlyweds.”

from Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” with accompa-

A couple should know how a provider engages

niment from strings, organ or piano. On the

attendees. Developing an atmosphere of fun

other hand, a bride may want to come down

creates a good time, so happy guests are still

Line, group or ethnic dances draw people to

the aisle, guests edging her path, to music by

up on the dance floor at the end of the night.

the dance floor. Having a DJ lead them offers

No matter who supplies the services, a

group security. Audience requests provide clues

Another opportunity for rhythm is the

feeling of cooperation between music provider

for what a DJ should play. Sweet said competi-

time for conversation over beverages and

and other vendors helps ensure a smooth event.

tions offer incentives, so he didn’t blink when

appetizers before the couple, wedding party,

Because Complete can coordinate and bundle

he once challenged guests to fill a Complete

family and friends settle into the reception.

DJ entertainment, photography, videogra-

photo booth. A total of 28 people “pushed the

phy, photo booth, uplighting, plus extras like

envelope” and squeezed into the close space.

Ed Shearan.

TEAM PERSONALITY A bride and groom should know who the DJ

karaoke and video production, the comfort zone is automatic for a coordinator like Sweet.

ONE-ON-ONE BASE

While using someone with less experience as a DJ may sound tempting as a budget saver,

will be and how that personality will be displayed

“I love having my photographer and others

Sweet stood on the side of selecting a profes-

– over the top, laid back or more reserved. The

under one roof with me. You can wink at them

sional wedding entertainer under contract to

newlyweds and immediate families should feel

and everyone knows where to push and pull the

save heartache – and often added expense – later.

assured that the atmosphere designed in advance

timetable,” he added.

Even if a relative is chosen, he said, a contract

will highlight the couple, steadily balanced by

A DJ who mingles with guests lays the

the person who takes charge of the event. The

groundwork, according to Sweet. “It takes

spells out reliable expectations for the bride and groom – as well as the music specialist.

PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY DISC JOCKEY PHOTO BOOTH LIGHTING 314.991.5656 STL@CompleteWeDoInc.com

COMPLETEWEDDINGSTLOUIS.COM #partywithcomplete

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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89

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L OV E S TORY

Cori & Jim O C TO B E R 6 , 2 0 1 8

‘We had so much to talk about with different viewpoints.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOTO ELEGANCE

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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91

T he smile of Cori McGrath attracted Jim

The Jewel Box in Forest Park for an indoor

Lyons, who was looking online for a compatible

ceremony in a natural setting.

date in autumn 2014. The mountain backdrop

They planned an “all-inclusive” ceremony

of the guy who was hiking lured Cori, who

honoring close ties with family and friends.

liked to travel. They met Oct. 16 at a brewery

Manhasset String Quartet provided music. The

in Kirkwood and watched the St. Louis Cardinals

only sister of each of them was among six brides-

lose a post-season championship game.

maids wearing burgundy dresses. Flower girl and

The bartender encouraged the spirit of their first date and they started checking the boxes.

Jim had his career together, Cori noticed.

and two friends sang. They gave flowers to all the parents and Cori’s 92-year-old grandmother,

led to a seven-year career with Mercy Hospital.

their only living grandparent.

Happy photos.

“I majored in biology but wanted to go back to

Their dog, Porter, joined them and the wedding party for pictures at The Muny on the 90-degree day.

Then, it was on to St. Louis Central Library and Civil Life, their favorite local brewery. Luckily, it did not rain until after photos outdoors. At the reception at Andre’s West in Fenton, they and 165 guests smiled for a group photo.

school to be a nurse. He also was super funny,” she admitted.

He grew up in Godfrey, Ill., and Cori was from Ballwin. They meshed well.

“She was very different than I was in personality. I was very introverted growing up, but we really clicked right away. We had so much to talk about with different viewpoints. Plus, she has an adorably funny laugh,” he decided initially.

Jim to wear the family’s Santa Claus suit. His theatrical side, with a well-practiced “ho, ho, ho,” won over relatives and fooled the little kids. After accepting congratulations, Jim and Cori kissed under the mistletoe and he said, “You know I love you.”

He passed the initiation and neither retreated.

Jim encouraged Cori to finish nursing studies and she introduced him to international travel.

Fondness for craft beer.

A trip to Thailand in 2017 fit his intention of

On their first date, they met at a brewery. Jim often wears a cap from a favorite south St. Louis brewery, which they visited on their wedding day. As a thankful memento for guests, they attached an Old World key-opener to a bottle of beer with a note that said, “Let Love Brew.”

proposing. Contrary to his usual truthfulness, he claimed he had no ring to take on the trip.

“We were on the last stop of the trip, an island in southern Thailand,” Cori remembered.

“Our beachside hut opens to the ocean. We decide to take some pictures of the sunset. This

Favorite things highlighted the ceremony.

“The ceremony was so ‘us,’” said the bride. They inserted readings of their choice and personalized most of the rest. The groom added, “We touched up the traditional vows.”

Jim appreciated Cori’s look of confidence when he saw her. “She sometimes gets pessimistic about things. I never heard her talk more positively than she did about her dress. She reflected that coming down the aisle,” he said.

Cori credited her mother with fashioning many details, including a display of family wedding pictures. Fresh flowers went into centerpiece vases they decorated with gold leaf. Teddy bears guarded gifts. Her dad strung lights on floating initials behind the head table, a welcome destination.

“When we finally sat at the head table,” Jim said, “we had a quiet spot to talk a little bit.” Part of the appeal was seeing – for “just a moment,” Cori said – all the guests who had come to share their wedding with them.

Although Cori’s family happily filled the dance floor much of the evening, Jim broke his own family tradition to dance at the reception.

The groom’s new cooking skills will help keep them on schedule as Cori begins studies to

would have been a really good place to

become a nurse practitioner. He called her the

propose, I couldn’t help thinking.”

“sweetest person” he knows, while his compas-

Jim thought so, too. He had gone back to the hotel and asked for champagne. The bartender reached “way back for the only bottle.” A couple from Germany, the only witnesses, emailed pictures of his proposal on June 3, 2017.

Planning a fall wedding, they headed to

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

of one of Cori’s high school friends officiated

His degree in computer information systems had

Just two months later, her family invited

92

ring bearer were children of cousins. The father

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

sion, respect and support of her endears him to her heart. “Nobody gets too high and nobody gets too low as a couple,” the bride said. “We have good role models as both sets of our parents are still together. The wedding has moved us out and has gotten us onto the road of life.”

ON T HE COV E R

delicious

Sweet tiers Married life should be as sweet as wedding cake.

St. Louis’ Best Bridal brides and grooms agree when they translate their taste-bud preferences into dessert for their wedding. Sometimes layers of favorite flavors become opportunity to sample a spectrum. Some couples prefer cheesecake.

Others forgo cake and install cookies tiered to look like it.

Others shoehorn cake into a mĂŠlange equalizing sweets that create a buzz as appealing as honey to a bee.

94

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Stephanie Kiszczak and Nathan Badgett wanted to steer away from tradition, yet frame their cake with familiarity, so they and Harter Bakery worked two designs into five square layers. Carrying a motorcycle theme through the wedding reception inside the Moto Museum, they used motorcycleshaped cupcake picks on the lowest layer and on table centerpieces, then topped the cake with a sleek silhoutte located online.

Photo courtesy of Tracey Bartmann-Leek of LOVE & LIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

Right, Roush was part of the wedding of Tori Pinkas and Josh Harned in more ways than one. First, the dog walked down the aisle with the bride, his mistress. Also, his image captured the attention of guests atop the wedding cake made by Wedding Wonderland.

Photo courtesy of STRIKE A POSE PHOTOGRAPHY

Below, On their New Year’s Eve wedding, Cassie Murphy ordered sheet cakes from Pint Size Bakery in chocolate and vanilla flavors, plus a two-layer cake in Funfetti to suit the sweet tooth of groom Alan Spencer. They enjoyed the top layer on their first anniversary.

Photo courtesy of COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS

Lower left, Tim Brennan, owner of Cravings Restaurant, used his talented spatula to bedeck a Victorian sponge cake with English buttercream icing when Joe Schoen and Nick Simaku exchanged vows. The cake set the classic stage for red roses and black banding, signature colors for the couple’s wedding with a theater theme.

Photo courtesy of TROTTER PHOTO

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95

With wedding perspective as bright as a rainbow down their Yellow Brick Road theme, Rebecca Rhoten and Andrew Batchelor chose a multitiered cake from McArthur’s Bakery to bloom in favorite colors and flavors. A top layer held banana and cream, middle was strawberry with white mousse filling and the bottom was rich in red velvet and cream.

Billing themselves “non-traditional,” they served all the cake at the wedding and the bakery remade the top layer for their first anniversary.

Photo courtesy of TROTTER PHOTO

96

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Right, Jessica Glenn and Conrad Kempa shifted wedding plans into gear for nonstop action, so they chose desserts to eat in a few bites between spins on the dance floor. Not wanting to slow their own activity, they chose to “cut” chocolate chip cookies made and decorated in two layers

by Jane Hardnacke. Served alongside were chocolate and vanilla cake pops, cupcakes and chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Photo courtesy of GREG HERNDON PHOTOGRAPHY

Left, Wedding cakes of Danielle Merlati and Miguel Rios spanned the Americas in flavor and style. Bridal colors and a topper resembling them and their dogs embellished the double-layer centerpiece from Sarah’s Cake Shop. Planned to entice the international sweet tooth, treats included candy and dulce de tres leches cake, an extra-rich Mexican cake made by a family friend in honor of the groom’s heritage.

Photo courtesy of STRIKE A POSE PHOTOGRAPHY

Above, April Tyus and Otha Myles chose a glittery look in a cake by Icing Café for their dinner reception. Gold details on the cake included a shiny topper the physicians had made with Dr. ♥ Dr Myles on it. They served it the way they like to eat it – topped with ice cream.

Photo courtesy of GEORGE STREET PHOTO & VIDEO

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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97

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L OV E S TORY

Annie & Danny JAN UARY 14 , 201 8

‘Marriage is about being there for the person you love so much. It goes back to your vows.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELANIE SELEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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F rom Charlie Brown to Batman and the Beetles, Annie Hier and Danny Brown may

The couple listed wedding priorities. It

burst into song at the drop of a karaoke switch.

should be personal, neither super swanky nor

They usually wear entertainment T-shirts

super formal. Everybody should have a

on weekends and evenings. By day, she makes

good time, but feel special and loved.

educational videos for the U.S. Department of

Not the least, it should have a theater

Veteran Affairs and Danny discovers financial

connection.

opportunity for credit union members.

Jewel colors.

‘We are big kids and our wedding was a celebration. Colors were a Dr. Seuss-style explosion.’ Bridesmaids were assigned a bold, bright color.

The bride wore blue patent shoes and borrowed a grandmother’s shawl. Batman socks brightened the groom’s new suit. They signed a ketubah, hand-colored by Danny’s sister to match bouquets.

gallery and theater, provided a ceremony onstage,

fall 2013. Danny, the “new guy” at Kirkwood

farmhouse tables for buffet in the “catacombs”

Theatre Guild, started rehearsals late for his role

and a wedding-oke reception in the ballroom

in “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change.”

for 135 guests.

“I could tell from the start that Danny was

The ceremony, with self-written vows, linked

a super sociable guy,” said watchful Annie. “He

religious themes of Danny’s Jewish background

is so cute. He is an unassuming guy, kind of shy,

with her Protestant Christian ethos. An interfaith

with this incredible talent. He blossoms on stage.”

blessing from Cantor Joshua Finkel with ceremo-

Danny appreciated her welcome. “Ann was

nial wine drinking from Danny’s bar mitzvah

this bright light. She brings a warmth. She’s

cup and a glass stomp, as well as prayers from

beautiful and makes me laugh like nobody else.

the Rev. Scott Stearman, formerly of Kirkwood

She is very eloquent but then she breaks out with

Baptist Church, anchored it. Annie’s maternal

a sailor’s joke and cracks me up,” he said.

grandmother’s handmade shawl bound common

Danny left soon after most rehearsals, so she was the brunt of the cast’s relentless and “not very

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

Of course, music by the bride and groom and talented friends surrounded them. Annie walked down the aisle to “The Princess Bride” theme.

be the last we would see of each other,” Annie said.

“What’s really burned into my mind,” Danny

After the final cast party, their “maybe” first date,

said, “was this image of Ann coming down the

they walked several hours in the cold November

aisle. ‘Storybook Love’ on acoustic guitar made

air. Danny said, “I timidly asked if I could

it feel very like a fairy tale, the woman of my

hold her hand by the end. After that, I

dreams coming towards me.”

They first danced to “Till There Was You”

He thoughtfully delivered homemade soup

of “The Music Man.” When the groom and his

and orange juice when she suffered a bad cold,

mother danced to “Rainbow Connection” from

cooked dinner and baked cupcakes to welcome

“The Muppet Movie,” guests sang along. Danny

her after a trying day. “It is so nice and comfort-

sang his mother’s birthday request, “Alleluia.”

ing to know she will be here,” Danny admitted.

The bride wore a vintage-inspired, handmade

In his “heart of hearts,” he knew Annie

gown and fascinator-style hat made by a costumer

wanted to take the next step. With family urging,

friend. Annie pulled a tossable garter from her

he formed a proposal on their three-year dating

husband’s leg. Being hoisted in chairs above guests

anniversary visit to New York in November 2016.

singing “Hava Nagila” while dancing the hora

With engagement ring solidly in his pocket

around them, she said, was “a little bit frighten-

awaiting its cue, another getting-engaged couple

ing, but it was fun.” Bibs for the winter barbecue

upstaged him at a retaurant in Times Square.

dinner read “Eat, Drink & Be Married” and they

He mustered his courage back at the hotel and

100

Irish ancestry with a Celtic handfasting.

“We knew when the show was over, it wouldn’t

was a little more emboldened.”

‘When things quiet down and it is just a night at home, it is the time you settle down and don’t need to have anything to say. Just hold her hand and just feel at home.’

Boo Cat Club, revived from days as art

They met on a community theater stage in

subtle” teasing over their mutual crush.

Groom’s joy.

decided the future bride, was “perfectly Danny.”

cut a super hero-topped Key lime pie.

asked if she wanted an anniversary present then

The newlyweds led “Bright Side of the Road”

or later. “Of course, she said, ‘Now,’ so I told her

by Van Morrison. “We didn’t want to send people

to close her eyes and I hid it.” His revised timing.

on a sad song, but on a happy note,” Annie said.

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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101

F E ATUR E S

sweet rewards

Brides slide ‘n’ glide Every prospective groom falls for a woman wearing goggles after

from Trotter Photobooth. Cassandra Chamberlain and Roman Andrews

diving face-first into multi-tiered layers of sweetness – particularly when

planned to use gown cleaning and preservation from American Cleaners

her perfume is called “cake” and she holds a special prize for their wedding.

after their late-September wedding.

Ten brides-to-be lined up Sunday, July 15, at Saint Charles Convention Center to become her

came to their rescue. Two cake-dive acquaintances with summer weddings

fiance’s favorite person. They partic-

became allies and traded prizes. The week after the cake dive, Emily

ipated in the annual Bride’s Cake

Anderson made an appointment to try on The Ultimate Bride gowns

Dive of St. Louis’ Best Bridal.

for her July 2019 wedding to Fernando Alvear, whom she met in his

Katie Ptasznik proudly

hometown of Santiago, Chile. Elizabeth Arciszewski completed the

displayed contents of the

switch and will duplicate Russo’s Catering’s delicious cake – which

plastic wedding ring she

she unceremoniously sampled in the dive – when she

discovered in the cake baked and decorated by Russo’s

and Aaron Dulle marry in June 2019.

Andy Ladendecker proposed to Amy Glueck during a photo session on a family

Catering.

She and fiance Anthony

vacation to Gulf Shores, Ala., so they

Puricelli excitedly anticipate an

planned to include their two dogs in

all-inclusive trip, the prize provided by Travel

the engagement photo session she won

Haus of St. Louis, Funjet Vacations and El Dorado

from Strike a Pose.

Resorts and Hotels, after their wedding on Sept. 28, 2019, a date chosen to match that of her grandparents.

Katie said family destinations have taken them to Mexico

Favazza’s Rose of the Hill will treat Georgia Bess and Vince Bommarito to a party site before their wedding on

in recent years, so a trip out of the country sounded like a

Nov. 9, 2019.

sweet finish to share as a newly married couple.

A photobooth gift from Enchanted Mirror STL

Ten women who received the top number of votes for the couples’ photos online at STLToday.com were invited to dive.

Kaitlynne Kendall’s ring held a prize for wedding-day flowers from

102

With the last brides-to-be still searching for well-hidden rings, others

will form a dramatic tradition for Alaina Bottini and Kyle Baldwin, who met in a community theater production of “Seussical” when they were 13 and plan to marry June 20, 2020.

Always in Bloom. She and Chris Wolfmeier, as well as Erica Young and

April Williams, who plans to marry Taylor Martin on June 7, 2019, also

Chase Cribbet planned September 2018 weddings. Erica’s prize was club

enjoyed prospects of a double prize, the first a credit for tuxedo rental with

membership to Wellbridge Athletic Club & Spa and an added surprise

Savvi Formalwear, plus a bonus from Dillard’s Gift Registry.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Our grooms are the sweetest Judging future grooms on a sweetness-per-

Opening his plastic ring to discover the prize,

Mancuso secured flowers from Walter Knoll

inch basis, the dozen who participated in the

Spencer Grobe took home the promise of a trip-

Florist. Fiancée Kelsey Wolfe plans to carry a

Groom’s Cake Dive of St. Louis’ Best Bridal

for-two from Travel Haus of St. Louis. He and

beautiful bouquet and center tables with lush

on Monday, Sept. 24, 2018, won hands-down

Molly Gillam plan to use it after their wedding

greenery as their prize.

– or hands behind their backs. They were top

on Feb. 23, 2019. He observed after the once-in-

vote-getters among more than 130 couples who

a-lifetime experience: “That icing definitely sticks

submitted photos.

to you!”

Smiles, cheers and fun started with a tentative

The first to find a capsule was Scott Jovanovic.

lineup of guys, barefoot or clad in flip-flops,

About 40 cheering relatives and friends held paper

wearing “tuxedo” T-shirts. Both the shaved and

cutouts of him and fiancée Amanda Pogue high in

bearded pushed faces into a tiered cake, made

the air. Scott had an extra at-bat because he only

by Russo’s Catering, to find prizes hands-free.

retrieved half the ring – minus a prize – so he dove back in to rescue the remainder. They will use their Favazza’s Rose of the Hill prize in their dinner

MISSION:

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

reception plan for Sept. 28, 2019.

V.J. Bommarito said he and Georgia Bess

Berkley Shands and Katie Brecklin, also to be

may not have planned a photo booth at their

married Sept. 28, will enjoy a bridal shower prize

wedding if their Cake Dive ring had not held a

at Saint Charles Convention Center.

prize from Trotter Photo. They will be married

Tuck hands rst into face-fi behind back, push of rapidly icing y cake, kneel on slither destructed cake.

on Nov. 9, 2019.

REWARDS:

engagement video shoot from Strike A Pose.

HAN DICAP:

One of 10 bridesearned s-to-be groom 12 or to-be to booth photo of prize g a weddin limo to suit s groom’ , spa session ride, rehearsal party to flowers, and everyone’s goal – an all-inclusive trip-for-two to a resort in Mexico.

SWE ET FALLOUT:

Joel Robinson’s dive into the cake turned up a perfectly timed prize for his and Ashley Boyd’s wedding in spring 2020. They will pose for a spring Nick Gramolino and Shannon Munro will be married June 29, 2019, and share a fresh slice of cake, which his fiancée hoped will be decorated “rustic style,” from Russo’s Catering.

Other future newlywed participants and Among divers, Kyle Shepard and Molly Jasper

their prizes were Max Horvath and Kristy Kilker,

expected to be married first. Days before the Cake

rehearsal dinner from Andre’s Banquets &

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

Dive, they decided to forgo their 2019 wedding

Catering; Rob Kutten and Bekah Franzel, DJ

plans for an earlier destination plan with families

services from Complete Weddings + Events;

attending. Kyle would be the best-dressed groom

Samuel Maag and Emily Jackson, wedding gown

in a Savvi Formalwear tuxedo on Nov. 18, 2018,

package from Wedding Gallery; Nathan Flaherty

QUALIFIE R: Top number of votes online for couple’s photo at STLtoday.com /contests.

in Sedona, Ariz.

and Dana Feldmann, gown preservation from

For their wedding on April 13, 2019, Michael

American Cleaners.

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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103

F E ATUR E S

gratitude served

Rehearsal sets party stage Story by JANICE DENHAM

Months of planning have been set in place. Guests start to arrive. It is time to shift into gear to catch the breathless momentum of the wedding weekend with family and friends.

The rehearsal officially starts it. A party following it sets the

“It is right down the street from the church, St. Ambrose, where they were married,” Jane said. “Our first one was in 2001, so it was in the main restaurant. There weren’t so many relation-

table – literally – for the calculated, topsy-turvy excitement of

ships in our younger family then, so about 35 came to that one.”

sharing a couple’s commitment with relatives and friends.

The largest gathering of 100 guests for her daughter and future

Jane Torretta has experience in planning rehearsal parties.

She and husband John hosted dinners for three sons, plus their daughter’s wedding utilized Favazza’s Restaurant on The Hill.

The most recent with 60 guests in the enclosed year-round patio preceded the early-autumn wedding of Joseph Torretta and

104

his bride, Athena Geiseler.

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

son-in-law was in the attached dining room.

Athena, like John, grew up on The Hill. The bride called the dinner location “an easy decision. Favazza’s makes working with them so seamless. They handled all of the decorative elements from the linens to the centerpieces and there wasn’t a single detail

left untouched when we arrived.”

While a groom and his family are traditionally responsible for a rehearsal dinner, first cues of a well-coordinated wedding are evident as a couple’s strongest supporters from near and far are welcomed at meet-and-greets.

Athena worked with her soon-to-be mother-in-law on a menu and Jane coordinated with Favazza’s to bring their vision to life. Jane recommended relying on a location’s decorative details so other items important to the overall plan can be prioritized. They used fresh flowers, white tablecloths and the unique setting of the restaurant.

The bride extended the paper suite for the occasion.

Athena said, “I personally designed the menus and seat assignment cards to replicate our custom wedding invitations.

Our wedding colors were ivory, champagne and black, so since our wedding invitations were ivory, Jane wanted to bring in a bit of the black in the rehearsal dinner.”

Jane and Athena’s tips will help kick off a spectacular wedding weekend. ✤

Know your budget. See if a restaurant or other preferred

venue can meet requirements of both sides. ✤

Observe the weather. If possible, experience the facility

in the same timeframe as the wedding. Be flexible. At the Torrettas’ most recent rehearsal dinner, the enclosed patio was opened to the pleasant Indian-summer evening. ✤

Consider the fit. The family utilized four different loca-

tions for rehearsal dinners with Favazza’s Restaurant, but still didn’t use all of the site’s facilities. ✤

Grow a guest list carefully. Close family, wedding party,

out-of-towners, exceptional friends, clergy and wives/husbands from the ceremony should be considered. ✤

Evaluate and plan a style. Relaxed ambience encourages

meeting others before the next day’s wedding. Athena said, “With both Greek and Italian families, the time to mingle before dinner was an important part of the evening, so passed hors d’oeuvres were a very nice touch, allowing our guests to have a bite or two before it was time to sit down for dinner.”

Style and value determine menu choices, Jane said. They favored a sit-down dinner, but she urged cost comparisons of food – hearty appetizers, buffet or sit-down – plus beverages with wine service, open or tab bar.

Left, The Torretta and Gieseler families welcomed family of all ages to their party at Favazza’s Restaurant on The Hill, chosen for convenience with plentiful ambience. | This page, from top, Joseph Torretta and Athena Gieseler at a party after rehearsing their church wedding a few blocks away. Guests arrived for appetizers aand drinks. They found seats with menu and seating tags prepared by the families. An outdoor location for a pre-wedding party should be chosen carefully with an eye on local weather. For instance, this patio can be closed to inclement elements and heated to use year-round.

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L OV E S TORY

Alyssa & Chris O C TO B E R 2 0 , 2 0 1 8

‘It was a special time, but a beginning, turning over that leaf of a new chapter.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA HESSELL PHOTOGRAPHY

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Chris Suntrup wanted to know Alyssa Horace better. That was in late 2014.

gave her for a wedding gift. They had a first look

my sales skills,” he said. “We met for coffee for

outside the Saint Louis Art Museum. Later,

business and she finally agreed to give me a lunch

outside City Hall, the sweetness of a family kiss shared by them and Blaise awed Chris.

Then, her intelligence reinforced the impression.

Alyssa said, “For me, it started as a friend-

Always a ballerina and now a bride, Alyssa

ship and quickly blossomed into romance. His

appreciated the quiet anticipation before she

honesty, his trustworthiness drew me. We also

walked down the grand staircase at City Hall.

shared common interests. We were very aligned.”

“I have danced before thousands of people.

Marriage discussion began in only six

I don’t get nervous very often,” she remembered.

months. Alyssa’s heart was certain when Chris

“Tucked away, it was a very special moment with

told her she would make a wonderful mother.

my dad and I felt like I was getting ready for a

Ceremony highlights.

Change in reception venue.

To alert guests to their new destination, they divided the guest list and called each personally early in the week before the wedding.

Chris planned a surprise proposal on Valentine’s Day 2016, but there was a revision.

performance – a bit of nostalgia with reminders of wearing special shoes and even a tutu.”

Alyssa said, “We had to learn to wear life like a

Both sets of parents – with Chris’s father as

loose garment. You can plan and plan, but we were

best man, the groom’s older children – Ethan and

getting the biggest snowstorm in the recent past.

Audrey, plus family and friends attended. The

Going up in a helicopter was out of the question.”

newlyweds moved in a vintage Cadillac Fleetwood

After breakfast, they found the airport was

Series sedan formerly owned by Howard Hughes.

closed, so they went straight to her parents’ house

A sign outside both ceremony and reception

in Millstadt, where the future groom proposed

locations announed their wedding.

outside amid the falling snow. Their son, Blaise Suntrup, was born soon thereafter.

The new Mr. and Mrs. Suntrup danced to “The Music of the Night” from “The Phantom of

“We wanted to devote time and attention to

the Opera.” Tenor Nick Palance, of Los Angeles,

parenthood together. We wanted to make sure

brought the evening’s music to life under glisten-

timing for the wedding was right,” Alyssa added.

ing chandeliers for more than 110 guests. The

As a couple, she explained, they approach things from an angle of convenience – and their wedding would be no different.

helpful assistance of Alyssa’s mother included

A reception immediately following the ceremony

Even amid a last-minute venue change, Alyssa

fit that requirement – even for their 2-year-old

said, “We felt relaxed and enjoyed the reception.

son in his smart-looking tuxedo.

The entire day was filled with love and we were

selection of glittering crystal candelabra for the tables. Name cards hung on wintry branches for guests to find their places.

Alyssa, a fan of the architectural beauty of

surrounded by the ones who have supported us

St. Louis City Hall, focused on its rotunda as

since ‘Day One.’” Cookies and other sweets were

the site for sharing vows, officiated by a close

considered too tasty to wait for the ride home.

friend, Tom Carroll.

Reflecting on the wedding she had envisioned

As the target of Oct. 20, 2018, closed in,

most of her life, Alyssa delights in the “less is

The priorities.

weather forecasters predicted upper-30 temper-

more” profile fitting both her and Chris so

“We wanted the wedding to be our centerpiece,” said the groom.

Classic, elegant, white-on-white with hints of metallic was their

atures with high winds. Their outdoor venue

perfectly at this time of their lives.

interpretation.

could not secure enough heaters for the backup

“I was just so thrilled with our wedding,”

tent. Luckily, there was an unexpected opening

she said. “It was a special time, but a beginning,

at the Missouri Athletic Club, where they already

turning over that leaf of a new chapter.”

planned a rehearsal dinner. They redirected floral and wedding décor for the grand ballroom.

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mother on her bouquet and wore earrings Chris

“I had to keep staying persistent and use

date.” Her smile and blue eyes attracted him first.

They envisioned music by a string quartet, Blaise as ring bearer and a custom arrangement of “Dancing in the Moonlight” as they recessed after their commitment.

Alyssa placed a Maltese cross belonging to her

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Chris anticipates life shared with his wife and their family. “Everything adds up to Alyssa.”

PA R T Y PL A N S

time-wise plan

mind the time

PACE PARTY Your one-of-a-kind event is cleared for takeoff. A timetable lets everyone follow your wishes according to a carefully set ETA. This sample of when to eat, dance and inject other amusement helps design your special occasion and inspire unique revisions. Communicate clearly with the DJ or master of ceremonies as well as photographer, videographer and other planners exactly what has been set up so they can keep timely watch over the event and help round up moving parts.

as bridesmaids and groomsmen, enjoy

6:30

a dance. A choreographed dance may

SIP COCKTAILS

surprise and be memorable for guests.

Guests mingle and meet, cocktails and appetizers are served. Music usually starts the party. Bride and groom may arrive unheralded, perhaps after a planned time for posed pictures along the perimeter or lingering at the ceremony site.

9:00

DESSERT IS SERVED If wedding cake is served, it is cut first, perhaps earlier, then the catering staff serves slices of cake or offer other dessert(s).

7:15

ENTER, TOAST, DINE

9:15

IN THE SWING

When dinner

Guests follow the tenor of the newlyweds.

chimes ring,

Work out a music schedule in advance

guests pick

with the DJ or music leader.

up place cards and find their tables. The bridal party is announced and seated. Champagne, wine or other bubbly is poured so each guest is ready for toasts before dinner. The father of the bride welcomes guests first.

Other members of the bridal party follow.

Dinner is served.

8:45

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9:45

EXTRACURRICULARS It’s your party. Bouquet and garter tosses suggest who marries next. Feel free to line dance, distribute favors, give token gifts to those married longest, serve snacks or toast midnight.

10:45

BON VOYAGE OR NOT If the newlyweds leave the reception

TRADITIONAL DANCES

early, guests may gather to wish them

Bride and groom take center stage for

farewell as the party does or does not wind

their first dance as a married couple.

down. A popular option: Bride and groom

Father and bride dance, then mother

dance the night away, then continue to

and groom take to the dance floor. At

celebrate with remaining guests at another

last, the bridal party, paired by plan

safe, convenient location.

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

delicious

ON T H E COV E R

Today’s fare:

savory, sweet, splendid

Food presented by ANDRE’S BANQUETS & CATERING, CHEF TEAM of Dan Schiller, Nancy Krispin, Jesse Cooper and Cid Strickland | Photography by TROTTER PHOTO

Celebrating with fine food is a tradition to behold and enjoy in joyful company on a wedding day. The “behold” comes with inviting morsels shared with intentional gusto and the “enjoy” hinges on what a bride and groom consider delicious. It is just another way, said Greg Bresler, general manager of Andre’s Banquets & Catering, of extending a welcome to those who join the bride and groom on their wonderful day. “The food reflects them,” he said.

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Previous page, Fresh thyme rings pan-seared chicken breast topped with white wine demi-glace and herbs for accent; rissole potatoes tossed and crisped with olive oil, Italian seasonings, parmesan and pimento; freshly steamed and simply seasoned asparagus; fire-roasted sweet peppers. | Above, Grilled beef tenderloin is topped with a sauce of Burgundy wine reduction; redskin potatoes, steamed and then smashed, are loaded with bacon, onion, chives and cheddar cheese; oven-roasted whole petite carrots share roasting with colorful sweet peppers. | Right, from top: The party steps off with flavorful appetizers of seafood bruschetta with shrimp, asiago cheese and parsley; phyllo cups of creamy brie cheese have smooth raspberry edges; “firecracker� burritos hold chicken, black beans, corn and spinach in a sauce with Southwestern flair.

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B resler said flavor caps considerations for food choices at a life event like a wedding.

Andre’s, which can service 30 up to 450 guests among its eight locations or cater a party offsite from 12 full-service, off-premise catering vehicles, lists buffets as a favorite for variety and less formality.

“Rustic” still holds a major look and translates into a broader style, he added, with barbecue a strong trend in flavor treats. Guests mingle at stations with a variety of foods.

American and Italian flavors still capture St. Louis taste buds, with appetizers, signature cocktails and late-night snacks as favorite personalized options with toasted ravioli, pretzels and chicken wings among hearty choices.

“Everyone wants to taste what they will serve and plated meals often include two options, like beef and chicken,” Bresler said.

He lists items to know when considering a food venue. ✤

Number of guests.

✤

A budget.

✤

Style of event: buffet and urge every body up for the party or measured courses for seated enjoyment.

Salads brighten and lighten a special dinner. | Top, Italian salad starts with mixed greens with a topping of parmesan cheese, pimento, red onion and crusty homemade croutons. Freshlymade vinegar-and-oil dressing is the dressing. | Bottom, Salad with an iceberg and romaine blend gets intriguing punch from sauteed squash, fresh pomegranate seeds and toasted candied walnuts, plus a drizzle of delectable creme fraiche.

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Wedding cake is a traditional delight, but trays of two-bite desserts, served at individual tables or a dessert bar, raise an event’s level of sweetness.

Above, Strawberries, fresh and more dipped in chocolate, share the outside ring with mini cheesecakes – plain, streaked with raspberry flavor or dipped in mini chocolate chips. Wedges of brownies, apple cheesecake, double fudge brownies and lemon bars tempt the sweet tooth.

In the center, chocolate mousse cups and mixed berry compotestand up for grab-and-go desserts. | Right, A fresh strawberry fans alongside cheesecake with berry-good drizzle.

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destination

F E AT U R E S

Nancy & Rob J U LY 2 1 , 2 0 1 8 Story by JANICE DENHAM Photography by JESSICA HENSLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Not only does Rob Jones have a vision of Nancy Nelson among pirates. His memory also sees her in military camouflage. That was his first view in late 2006.

He recalled their introduction in the command master chief ’s office at the St. Louis NOSC (Navy Operational Support Center).

“We were Navy Reservists. She stood out in her uniform, not just because she was taller than other women at 5-foot-11 in boots. From her side profile, everything was spot-on. She had French-braided hair, her fingernails were freshly manicured.”

It was her last drill weekend at home before deployment to Iraq. Rob shook her hand, wished her good luck and safe travels.

He returned home to Austin, Texas, and she went around the world to her new job. He was ordered to Iraq by May. Meeting again as senior enlisted Navy chief petty officers, he didn’t recognize her in a short “combat bob,” nor did she recall him from St. Louis. The only officer in the group to accept his offer to drive away from the mess hall for pizza, she joined him at a tea table at Sami’s Turkish Café, an on-base restaurant.

“Our friendship kind of blossomed from there from July to October. She is a good listener and very nice to look at,” Rob added.

“I was like a schoolkid waiting for my crush to come out of the schoolroom.” He was certain to do things with her and the group.

When she left Iraq, she didn’t answer his email for five days, so he called. She answered from the dentist’s chair during out-processing.

She said, “When I got back to the States, I started paying attention. We were going to be friends and keep talking.”

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A year of frequent calls as confidantes followed. In 2009, their “special friendship”

in the sea-blue Caribbean. Its captain might marry them.

took a serious turn. Each lived close to his or

They brainstormed a growing storyline

to navigate routes for friends close to home.

her school-age children until Rob’s younger

with friends in Austin. Everyone would dress

They sent invitations a year in advance and

son graduated from high school. In 2014 he

like sailors or, or … yes! … pirates. Best man-

reserved a 20-room block at the all-inclusive

joined Nancy in St. Louis.

to-be West Williams, playing privateer, would

Club Med along Providenciales Island, home

Not so insistent about marriage, she did

charge piracy on the high seas and declare a

of “best beach” Grace Bay, for almost 50

want to hear a proposal. With Nancy’s input

sentence of arrest or walking the plank. Rob

people to join their pirate wedding on July

on a custom ring, he planned for timing a

“parlayed” for another option, then West

21, 2018, and stay for the honeymoon.

Niagara Falls’ finale to a trip to the Northeast

(Captain South by Southwest) would recon-

in August 2016 with her daughter. Although

sider and offer matrimony – akin to “death.”

his future fiancée loved water, Rob rejected an

118

After that, the future newlyweds, who live in Imperial, engaged Travel Haus of St. Louis

Nancy, verifying facts, said, “As a history

Rob said, “We have been technically honeymooning around the world for eight years.

We just go. It’s a whole lot more fun when you

outdoor setting when a downpour washed out

major in college, I don’t like fake history. They

go to these far-flung places with friends.”

his plan. Instead, steakhouse staff delivered

had real-life pirates in the Turks and Caicos

the ring – with military insignia, waves and

Islands.” That is where she found Captain

a seamstress, embellished a corset the bride

anchor – under a lidded dessert tray.

A former commanding officer-friend,

Dave Douglas of the S/V Atabeyra – a 7-foot,

had made in India. For his “hodgepodged”

Nancy cast anchor on a navigable idea.

traditionally rigged, sailing schooner. His local

outfit, Rob left heavy shoulder pads in a

She thought ... they might get married on

friend, Pastor Sherlock Padmore, could steer a

multi-colored paisley jacket – which he called

a boat. A boat underway in the water. Maybe

British marriage through international waters.

“Johnny Depp meets Prince” in style. Told at

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THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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)?

the boat’s threshold that no shoes are worn

jet-skied in an all-inclusive package, only

on the Atabeyra, the booted pair stopped for

engaging tours to snorkel in deep water and

photos before boarding.

dive into history. They visited the hill where

The couple let Rev. Padmore know, Nancy said, that they wanted a “wax seal that God was in our marriage, even amid the very

waiting for a merchant vessel to run aground.

Among Nancy’s vows was one to find something to celebrate every day. Just as they

ing a friendly chorus that urged walking the

counted days leading up to the wedding,

plank, Padmore dutifully performed his first

they now come home to count days of being

“pirate wedding.” There was a tender moment

“accident-free” – that is, not altering their

of tears after they shared vows. The bride said,

relationship.

“It made me feel so good that all these people

“I am thrilled that nothing has changed. I

showed up. I actually got all these people here

wanted to keep things perfect. No change is a

and I have a boat full of pirates – overseas in a

good thing,” she said.

After a 3-1/2-hour sail, the group returned

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

pirates had etched rocks while standing watch,

unserious pirate party tale.” In spite of join-

place that most people hadn’t even heard of!”

E. What kind of destination should we choose?

By year’s end, they were racing into safe waters to finish master’s degrees – his in cyber

to a private Club Med room for dinner. A

security and hers in international relations. On

pirate ship decorated the wedding cake. They

Jan. 5 in St. Louis, Rob joined Nancy in retire-

windsurfed, paddle-boarded, snorkeled and

ment after 30 years in the U.S. Navy.

CALL FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

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

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

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119

F E ATUR E S

wedding tracks

Oscar & Leah at the wedding

Story by JANICE DENHAM | Photography by CHAMELEON IMAGERY

Kim Flatley and Owen Gray would not leave Oscar and Leah behind on their wedding day. In fact, Kim planned to list pets right after Owen on her wedding invitation list. She envisioned them walking down the aisle with nieces Mackenzie and Abigail, flower girls.

The test run was “a mess,” she said.

“They were getting tangled and the girls didn’t throw out their flowers and Oscar was acting like he got kidnapped by a 5-year-old.”

Time for Plan B. Comfort was a high goal.

Oscar, a brown standard poodle, flourished a red flower with his tuxedo-styled bandana. Kim painted the nails of Leah, a white standard poodle, to match colors worn by attendants.

The bride, owner of Fitness with Fido, based the following wedding tips for pets on personal and professional experience.

120

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Read Kim and Owen’s Love Story with photos on page 75.

ADVERTISEMENT

And pet makes three

WedPets handles ‘fur child’ as trusty part of wedding family Having best friends attend your wedding makes the day complete. Making it happen

1

RELY ON TEMPERAMENT, TRAINING.

Kim’s dogs, she said, are “mild-mannered

be married in August 2017, they wanted Greta,

everywhere with her. Note pets’ person-

their German shepherd rescue puppy, on hand

alities. Oscar is a mama’s boy while Leah

for the merger.

Nicole said about fine-tuning schedules right up

their owners’ wedding.

to the last day. As primary planner, she relied on

MAKE PLANS EARLY.

out in person. Including pets in engagement photos is a good trial. The same rule applies to an officiant. Being in a controlled outdoor venue or familiar location helps calm them in the surroundings.

ENGAGE A BACKUP.

Start this pattern with engagement photos.

On a cold day, Kim’s mother drove the dogs

4

“It was challenging and felt a little chaotic,”

not change when animals are spotlighted in

Hire a photographer after checking this

3

When Nicole and Dane Johnson were to

and socialized.” She tries to take them

adjusts better to outsiders. Temperaments do

2

requires thoughtful planning if those pals are pets.

two trustworthy friends to share time and transitions with Greta.

Growing from the experience, Nicole started WedPetsSTL, a wedding-day pet service for brides and grooms looking for reliable help from an experienced handler, so friends can enjoy the party and pets are honored as celebrated friends.

How much one – or more than one – pet participates in a wedding depends on many factors, including venue approval, the animal’s temperament, familiarity with caretakers, time and distance between locations.

“A pet’s disposition should not keep you from photos, at least,” she said, pointing out their flexibility starts with engagement photos. “The beauty is that you can incorporate dogs in photog-

to the site and left with them early. Engage

raphy before the wedding, after

a pet concierge to care for them at various

it … really, whenever.” Even a

times.

nervous dog can become part

FIT PLAN FOR EVERYONE.

of a first-look for the couple

Kim’s wise nieces could not envision

in non-wedding clothes. A

throwing petals and holding onto dogs

photographer captured Greta

at the same time – which proved correct

with Nicole and Dane meeting

upon trial. Think creatively. Kim’s father,

off-site for coffee, planned as an

weak from cancer treatment, walked

informal “first look.”

Later, Greta waited in a

with her mom, then Kim led Oscar and

courtyard outside the church

Leah down the aisle. Don’t keep pets at

5

the wedding beyond their tolerance. The

in Soulard, logged car miles with the wedding party to photo sites and spent the evening

Grays’ dogs stayed home to snooze after

reception among guests at Old Rock House near Soulard, a St. Louis location which, when

photos there with the wedding party.

asked, welcomed her with a handler for the celebration.

DRESS PETS EARLY.

Keep outfits simple. A lead dressed with silk flowers can be ready weeks ahead. Try on a garment early for fit and to be certain it does not irritate or concern the animal.

6

Nicole gained experience by fostering dogs of many sizes, temperaments and breeds. She begins by offering wedding services for the ceremony with pickup, photos and drop-off, then flexibly adjusts for more personal care and time. That might include casting the pet with a role in the wedding or if more than one animal is included. She will gladly discuss a couple’s needs.

“A bride has a million things to think about and concern for her pet should not be one of them. A caretaker helps keep the day on track,” she said.

KEEP DOGS COMFORTABLE.

Give pets time before the event to “do their duty.” Fetch a water bowl for the day.

Website: WedPetsSTL.com E-mail: wedpetsstl@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wedpetsllc Instagram: @wedpets

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Engagement announcements Free St. Louis’ Best Bridal announcements — online at stltoday.com/engagement and published in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch!

After you’ve told all your family and closest friends ... it’s time to let St. Louis’ Best Bridal spread the word about your engagement.

It’s easy to do and it’s FREE. To have your engagement announcement published in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, just fill out the form located on our website at stltoday.com/engagement.

When you do, you will also receive a free ‘bride’ t-shirt. Plus, the latest St. Louis’ Best Bridal magazine along with a bridal kit containing everything you need to plan the best wedding ever.

L OV E S TORY

Debra & Roosevelt M AY 1 9 , 2 0 1 8

‘We laugh together,we have fun together, we cry together. We come through it all together.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STRIKE A POSE

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What makes you happy?

Watching the family love each other and be together again. Balancing each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Sitting beside one another.

F or Debra Duncan, love at first sight was no

have been the first time – with family there,

stretch of imagination. It pinpointed how she

me walking down the aisle. After rushing to

felt when she met Roosevelt Turner in 1990.

get married the first time, we both would have

She was 23 and he was 25.

rings,” she insisted.

“I liked his leadership,” she recalled.

They planned a renewal wedding on

“When he came by, we just sat down outside

May 19, 2018, almost exactly 20 years after

my apartment complex and talked. He would

their first formal commitment. Lou and Jackie

just open up casually to me and share everything

Brock, ordained ministers, officiated.

from a male perspective. It was totally unique.”

A sudden shower moved both ceremony

On their first date, he rode his bike and she

and reception for 90 guests, which had swelled

caught a cab to see a movie, “The Terminator.”

from an initial list of 50, inside the Highlands

“From there, we fell in love. He was my

Golf and Tennis Center in Forest Park. “Mr.

friend before he was my lover,” she said.

& Mrs. Turner” lit up the floor, the bride

Roosevelt considered her very pretty and smart. She leveled with him about her goals. Marrying him was high on her list.

said, “so whenever everybody walked in, they Attire, flower-topped cake, feathery centerpieces, draped tables and programs glittered

“I laughed when she told me, but deep down

in gold and white to confirm their religious

inside I knew she was the one. I told a friend,

significance. The family-centered celebration

but not her,” he said.

included children, grandchildren, siblings and

She also made certain he knew that she

mothers. Debra’s brother walked her down the

loved him, but believed in God more. Eventually,

aisle. Photos honored the supportive influence of

an ultimatum came.

family members who had passed – and they knew

“I was willing to let him go and he knew it. Before our relationship was about to end, he asked me to marry him,” Debra said. He called his mother to get his birth certificate. Before

would have wanted to be with them. They pledged family unity with a candle ceremony and poured salt together.

he could change his mind, they were married in

Roosevelt called it “just the best day. My

May 1998 at the courthouse in Edwardsville, Ill.

mother always liked her, loved her, and she

Honoring vows.

They had two children, Jowanna and Rasheen.

thought she would bring out the best qualities

‘Renewing our vows was a spiritual response for our holy covenant.’

“When we would talk, we were always madly

in me. There is a picture of my son looking at

in love with each other,” he said. “I had to stop

me when I first saw her. I had a glow and I’ll

and become a true man and a husband for her.”

never forget how she looked.” Only protocol,

By 2016, Debra saw a vast transformation

he suggested, kept him from kissing her at that

Symbolic colors.

Gold and white had spiritual meaning. Gold is associated with love, compassion, courage, passion wealth and wisdom. White is the color of purity, heaven, faith, beginnings, spirituality, humility and perfection.

124

would see it.”

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

in him and they were willing to build on that.

very moment.

“It was a different me and she was so happy

The postponed attraction has not lost its

for me. We basically started a fresh start,” he

glow. Debra envisioned them traveling the world

added. Amid their evolving relationship, they

and watching grandkids grow. In other words,

started to plan a renewal of vows to signify

they want to do “all the things we should have

overcoming the challenges they had faced.

done the first time. He is my everything. What

Debra wasn’t shy about wanting a real

I love about him is his smile. We laugh together,

wedding. “If we ever were joined together

we have fun together, we cry together. We come

again as one, I want it to be what it should

through it all together.”

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

location,, location

PA R T Y PL A N S

✤ 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.

Shop venues for fit, value

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.

First comes the budget. Then, it is time to find a fitting backdrop for details.

Colin Cowie, event planning guru, compiled a “foolproof ” checklist (http://bit.ly/Cowie-blog-checklistvenue) to use when shopping for venues. After all, he noted, what does every great wedding plan need to begin?

A fabulous place for sharing vows and celebrating! Don’t fret if no venue comes to mind. Check off priorities before locking one down. He offers ideas (www.colincowie.com) for planning a wedding location – A(rt museum) to Z(oo).

126

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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.

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

127

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

}

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

128

PHONE NUMBER

SEATED CAPACITY

OUTDOOR ON-SITE ROOM RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING AVAILABLE SITE

PAGE NUMBER

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

314 899-0612

225+

N

N

Y

Y

N

9th Street Abbey 1808 S 9th St., St. Louis

314 621-9598

250

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

All Occasions Banquet Centers 111 Compass Point Drive, St. Charles

636-946-1011

300

N

N

Y

Y

Y

Ameristar Casino Resort Spa One Ameristar Blvd., St. Charles

636-940-4300

300+

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Andre’s South 4254 Telegraph Road, St. Louis

314-894-2622

400

N

N

Y

Y

N

38

Andre’s West 211 S. Old Hwy. 141, Fenton

314-691-5650

350

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

38

Andre’s @ Brookdale Farms 8004 Twin River Road, Eureka

636-938-1005

250

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

38

Andre’s – Carriage House @ Fox Run Golf Club 1 Putt Lane, Eureka

636-253-0867

250

Y

N

Y

Y

N

38

Andre’s @ GlenMark Farms 3500 Hempstead St., St. Charles

314-691-5650

200

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

38

Andre’s @ Oak Valley Golf Course & Resort 1230 Abbey Lane, Pevely

314-606-0090

300

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

38

Andre’s @ Seven T Farms 81 East Bacon Ridge Road, Sullivan

314-894-2622

450

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

38

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

314-448-2414

230

-

N

Y

Y

N

38

Ballwin Golf Club 333 Holloway Road, Ballwin

636-207-2355

220

Y

Y

N

N

N

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

73

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

PHONE NUMBER

SEATED CAPACITY

OUTDOOR ON-SITE ROOM RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING AVAILABLE SITE

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

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+

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

1-800-225-6343

500

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

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

636-946-6250

475

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Butterfly House 15193 Olive Blvd, Chesterfield

636-530-0076

100

N

Y

Y

Y

N

Chatillon-DeMenil 3352 DeMenil Place, St. Louis

314-771-5828

250

N

Y

Y

Y

N

Cave Vineyard 5856 Christy Blvd., St. Genevieve

314-616-1098

250

N

Y

Y

Y

N

The Caramel Room 1600 North Broadway, St. Louis

314-615-2480

300

N

Y

Y

Y

N

The Carriage House at DeMenil 1 Putt Lane, Eureka

314-771-5828

180

Y

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

Big Cedar Lodge 190 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale

}

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8

9

74

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

129

Congratulations on your upcoming event Andre’s has been serving the St. Louis area since 1980, helping coordinate and celebrate thousands of wedding receptions, anniversaries, reunions, school and company banquets, retirement parties and rehearsal dinners. Andre’s staff takes great pride in providing excellent customer service, food and atmosphere to our clients.

We are the only “one-stop shop” in the country, providing tuxedos, invitations, photographers, florist, DJs, reverends, hotel accommodations and wedding-day transportation.

Andre’s has 8 locations to accommodate the St. Louis and Jefferson County areas, as well as 12 custom catering vans to bring the party to you. All locations are decorated and comparable to hotel luxury. Accommodations are available from 20 to 700 guests in-house and 50 to 2,000 for off-premise events.

ANDRE’S BANQUET FACILITIES

{ Now 8 locations in St. Louis and Jefferson County ✤ (314) 894-2622 ✤ www.andresbanquet.com }

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

ASK

130

PHONE NUMBER

SEATED CAPACITY

OUTDOOR ON-SITE ROOM RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING AVAILABLE SITE

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

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

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

100

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

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

314-535-4660

225

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

73

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

Y

N

Y

Y

N

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

34

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

OUTDOOR ON-SITE ROOM RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING AVAILABLE SITE

PAGE NUMBER

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

Y

N

N

Y

Y

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

314-231-3003

280

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Embassy Suites Hotel & Spa 636-946-5544 Two Convention Center Plaza, St. Charles

1,600

Y

N

Y

N

Y

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

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

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

7

Gateway Center, The 1 Gateway Drive, Collinsville, IL

618-345-8998

1,000

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

17

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

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131

Lumen St. Louis Lumen’s modern style, premium service and contemporary flair just stepped up the game! New marble walls, 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 ST. LOUIS

{ 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

ASK

PHONE NUMBER

OUTDOOR ON-SITE ROOM RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING AVAILABLE SITE

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

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

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

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

Innsbrook Resort & Conference Center 1 Aspen Circle, Innsbrook

636-928-3366

200

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

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

132

SEATED CAPACITY

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

PAGE NUMBER

13

Hilton St. Louis Frontenac Every bride should have the wedding of her dreams. Whether she has imagined every detail as a little girl or is just beginning to imagine, every decision is important. The gown, the music, the flowers, along with hundreds of other details should be perfect. Finding the right venue ties all the details together seamlessly! The Hilton St. Louis Frontenac is that venue.

Personal relationships with the bride and her family are extremely important. We have an experienced catering staff that works with the family from start to finish. Our wedding families remain with the same catering sales manager from the first meeting until the day actually arrives.

This ensures a perfect reception.

The Hilton St. Louis Frontenac offers specifically tailored wedding packages to help with your reception choices. Packages include four hours of open bar, one hour of white-gloved butler passed hors d’oeuvres, a champagne toast, a plated dinner or buffet and wine with dinner. In addition, the wedding cake is served with a signature Hilton chocolate ice cream truffle. Our packages also offer the bride and groom a complimentary suite on their wedding night as well as a complimentary guest room for the bride’s parents. Out-of-town guests stay at the hotel at a preferred guest rate.

Whatever options the bride chooses, the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac’s goal is to create lasting memories and a perfect wedding reception.

HILTON ST. LOUIS FRONTENAC

{ 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63131 ✤ (314) 993-1100 ✤ www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com }

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

Jewel Box Forest Park, St. Louis

ASK

PHONE NUMBER

SEATED CAPACITY

OUTDOOR ON-SITE ROOM RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING AVAILABLE SITE

314-531-0080

250

Y

Y

N

Y

N

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

800

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

PAGE NUMBER

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

N

N

Y

Y

N

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

28

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

314-615-2480

180

N

N

Y

Y

N

5

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

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

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133

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

ASK

134

PHONE NUMBER

SEATED CAPACITY

OUTDOOR ON-SITE ROOM RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING AVAILABLE SITE

The Magic House 516 South Kirkwood, St. Louis

314-822-8900

500

Y

N

N

Y

Y

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

PAGE NUMBER

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

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

45

The Caramel Room The Caramel Room 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 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 }

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL BUSINESS RECEPTION/ PARTNER LOCATION

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

ASK

PHONE NUMBER

SEATED CAPACITY

OUTDOOR ON-SITE ROOM RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING SITE AVAILABLE

PAGE NUMBER

314-638-6660

1000

N

N

Y

Y

N

28

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

600

N

N

Y

Y

N

28

Palladium St. Louis 1400 Park Place, St. Louis

700

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

314-799-8886

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

Y

N

Y

N

N

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

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

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

636-230-1881

400

Y

Y

N

Y

N

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

314-231-4808

310

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

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

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

FALL & WINTER 2017

19

11

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

135

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

ASK

136

PHONE NUMBER

SEATED CAPACITY

OUTDOOR ON-SITE ROOM RENTAL FEE PARTY AREA CATERER

CEREMONY LODGING AVAILABLE SITE

Saint Charles Convention Center One Convention Plaza, St. Charles

636-669-3000

1,000

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

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

314-655-5387

250

Y

N

Y

N

N

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

314-727-6266

110

Y

Y

N

Y

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

PAGE NUMBER

4

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

St. Louis Zoo 1 Government Drive, St. Louis

314-646-4855

500

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

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

314-533-9900

500

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Sheraton Clayton Plaza Hotel 7730 Bonhomme Ave., Clayton

314-863-0400

250

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

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

800

N

N

Y

Y

Y

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

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

314-241-8181

150

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Spazio Westport 12031 Lackland Rd., St. Louis

314-576-0400

250

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

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

314-576-0400

140

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

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156

Gateway Center: The great way to gather for weddings If you are looking for a wedding ceremony or reception venue with delicious catering, beautiful rooms, affordable pricing, amazing wedding packages, a convenient location with close proximity to hotels, and a friendly experienced staff, then Gateway Center is the right choice for you! Any size wedding reception from the small intimate groups of fewer than 100 guests to the larger more elaborate receptions with over 500 guests can be accommodated at Gateway Center. Located in Collinsville, Illinois, which is only ten miles from downtown St. Louis and in the heart of the Metro East Illinois region, the Gateway Center offers the advantages of easy highway access, free parking, and a central location that is surrounded by hotels. Spectra Food Services & Hospitality, the exclusive, in-house caterer at Gateway Center, offers many delicious options to impress the guests. Many clients personalize and design a menu to suit their tastes. With personalized service and attention to every detail, your event will be treated as the truly unique event that it should be, both for you and for your guests! Call Gateway Center today to make an appointment to view the room that will be best suited for your reception.

GATEWAY CENTER

{ 1 Gateway Dr, Collinsville, IL 62234 ✤ 618-345-8998 ✤ www.gatewaycenter.com }

Cedar Lake Cellars Winery and Event Venue Cedar Lake Cellars is a breathtaking venue and ideal atmosphere for your once-in-a-lifetime experience. Surrounded by 370+ acres of gorgeous cosmopolitan countryside and pristine lakes, this hidden gem features a combination of eclectic indoor and outdoor spaces. It is the perfect place for a couple to start their story. Not many locations offer rustic indoor spaces surrounded by a bountiful outdoor paradise. Couples can choose to hold their wedding in the charming Big Red Barn, at our spectacular Barrel Room, by the cascading waterfall, inside a glimmering tent, or in the heart of a charismatic vineyard. The opportunities are endless! From bridal showers and rehearsal dinners to wedding receptions and anniversary parties, Cedar Lake Cellars is an incomparable setting for all celebrations. Available amenities include onsite bonfires, fireworks displays, romantic hayrides, carriage rides, and much more.

Award-winning wine and deliciously prepared food guarantee the most magnificent combination for weddings ranging from 20 to 350 guests. Located just 45 minutes west of St. Louis, Cedar Lake Cellars provides a flawless fairy tale backdrop with rustic elegance. Call us today to arrange a tour and see firsthand why we are the destination for so many happily ever afters.

CEDAR LAKE CELLARS

{ 11008 Schreckengast Rd. Wright City, MO 63390 ✤ (636) 745-9500 ✤ CedarLakeCellars.com }

FALL & WINTER 2017

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

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L OV E S TORY

Rachel & Alec N OVEM B ER 2, 201 8

’I just always imagine her there with me.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOB SUMMITT, SUMMITT PHOTOGRAPHY

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

139

Results of proposal.

Rachel said, ‘Yes,’ at a private, early-morning staging at the World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park. After Alec promised a non-existent ‘super sunrise,’ she now fact-checks every scientific remark he makes.

Freshmen Rachel Kingery and Alec Herzog

attended in University City, with reception at

walked into their first calculus II class in August

Stone House of St. Charles. They devoted Friday

2012 at Saint Louis University where a professor

to the event, starting early in St. Charles to be

quickly filled the board and made assignments.

ready for a 2 p.m. ceremony, then pre-reception

“I am very studious and it was very intimidat-

cocktails at 4:30 for 240 guests. A great-

ing,” Rachel said. Then intent on a law career, she

grandmother, three grandmothers, two grand-

was taking math “for fun,” while Alec planned on

fathers and plentiful extended family attended

an engineering career. “We formed a study group

with friends.

and I texted the wrong person the first time. I

His first look of Rachel is etched in Alec’s

figured out Alec’s name and number from the list

memory. “I remember the sound of her walking

and we became friends pretty quickly. When

up to me. I had my back to her and we were

we studied together, we often worked until 3 or 4 a.m. And we survived the first semester.”

outside. I could hear her footsteps get closer and

Alec said, “Rachel’s dedication and willpower

the better.” They stole more time-for-two on a

have always impressed and attracted me. From

The dad of Rachel’s best friend read 1st Corinthians 13:4-8 about love. She called it ‘a significant moment. It made me feel strong.’

drive from the church back to St. Charles.

Burgundy, blush and – Alec’s suggestion

fascinated me. They have a way of seeming to

– orange were wedding colors. Each chose a

sparkle when she looks at me endearingly.”

sibling as closest attendant. They surrounded the

was charmed. Nor did they want to threaten what had developed. “I was worried about losing our friendship above all else,” Alec said.

ceremony with people dear to them. A goddaughter was flower girl and cousin was ring bearer.

Reception décor included seasonal pumpkins and flowers. Although neither prioritized music,

Rachel called an initial attraction “definitely

their first dance to Ed Sheeran’s music led to

friendship at first sight.” The next summer, they

another “Perfect” memory for the groom. “At

started spending more than study time together.

that moment, we were finally husband and wife,

She said, “We still were the glue of our friends’

there was nothing more to worry about or distract me, and it just felt like the two of us out there.”

group, so we had to balance between time with them and time for just us.”

140

with leaves.” Turning to see her, he said, was “all

a physical perspective, her eyes have always

Neither expected romance, but the chalk dust Inspirational reading.

closer and her dress brush the sidewalk scattered

Rachel, a native of Effingham, Ill., was an easy

Rachel’s sister helped divide 30 pounds of

fit with Alec’s family in Sunset Hills. Once they

coffee – “the perfect blend”– into bags and tie

became a couple, he never doubted their future.

with ribbon for favors. They visited guests on a

“I just always imagine her there with me,” he said.

mild autumn evening around heaters on the patio.

She graduated a semester before him. On

Desserts fit the bride’s “massive sweet tooth.”

visits over eight months, he listened to her prefer-

Besides a naked cake with Bavarian cream filling,

Church for ceremony.

ences for an engagement ring and a desire to

they served brownies, mini pies and cheesecake.

Each grew up with strong Catholic tradition, but it took their wedding to realize its importance to them.

Preparation was an opportunity to concentrate on the two of them, not everything swirling around the event. They appreciated requirements to spend quality time reflecting on and building their relationship.

have the proposal documented – without random

Guests drank apple cider from Tanners Orchard

people in photos – on a non-holiday.

near her home town and cider sangrias.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

Relying on astronomy and photography, he invited her to view a “super sunrise.” Laughing,

Their honeymoon in Italy took them to Florence, Rome and Pompeii.

she said, “That part was all baloney. He knew I

The bride appreciated their complementary

wouldn’t fact-check him back then.” The proposal

personalities. “I love his sense of humor. He takes

fulfilled all requirements. They waited to plan

care of me when I stay up all night. He is very

their wedding until her best friend was married

good at understanding that is how I am,” she said

in April, then a sister’s wedding in summer 2017.

of their time in college plus her job with U.S.

They chose Nov. 2, 2018, at Our Lady of

Bank. Alec, who works for Boeing, admired her

Lourdes Catholic Church, the church they

giving “110 percent” to what is important to her.

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

bridal shows

RIDAL SHO

ESSENTIALS

Everything you need

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

With the helping hand of St. Louis’ Best

man of her dreams disarmed her with a loving

Bridal, your unique celebration comes together.

speech while she wore a beautiful gown for a

Preparing for it should not be a puzzle as the

would-be bride. Attendees cheered when she

many ideas and details are pieced together into

agreed to say “I do” and share their Love Story

your dream wedding.

forever.

Attendees of St. Louis’ Best Bridal

Not only does each engaged woman wear a

Celebrations have said that anyone planning

sparkling smile by gathering ideas galore, but she

a wedding in the St. Louis metro area cannot

also carries away FREE resources to help focus on

afford to pass up these great opportunities,

what is important to the couple planning to wed.

whether the bridal list is getting under way or needs only a few spaces filled.

With a different show every time, myriad

Sized to carry on bridal adventures, it

returnees find those one, two or a few special

provides useful overviews of typical wedding

elements evading them. Stay alert for items that will make your wedding fun and personal, plus surprises that sprout along with celebrating a wedding-to-be.

The spirit is contagious!

One soon-to-be bride,

future husband, wore an engagement ring he put on her hand that very morning. A model at another Celebration received an engagement ring of her own when the

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

www.stlouisbestbridal.com.

local resources await both bride and groom. Even

walking into a show with her

142

A handy St. Louis’ Best Bridal Planner is free at shows or when a couple signs up at

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

12 ways

basics, tips and questions to ask to ease the planning journey.

TO ENJOY A BRIDAL SHOW

In your hands is another impressive resource: St. Louis’ Best Bridal Magazine.

Future brides, no matter the planning stage,

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

find fun and inspiration on its colorful pages

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

and keep it convenient to reference.

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

Its resources flow with gowns, men’s formal

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

wear, cakes, hairstylists, musicians, limousines, DJs, florists and pampering planners for the whole event or only the day. Compact, detailed guides help create a perfect wedding start-to-

1

finish. It also is found on local magazine racks.

Real love stories inspire, detailed ideas update trends, timetables suggest goals and legal

jewelry, food, photography and other details, big and small, build confidence. Listings suggest choices for rehearsal fun, wedding, reception Information about bridal shows and weekly

head spin, so revisit them later after you settle back to sift through options.

YOUR GOAL: FIND SPECIALISTS.

Seek out those whose ideas match yours.

post-show offers and ideas. General admission

Sync calendars to make appointments or

is $5 (cash only).

leave call-back information to set dates

FOCUS ON SERVICES YOU NEED. If that engagement of yours is sparkling new

personalize ideas with new twists for your extra-special occasion. Watch for fun this year

8

PRINT STICKERS. Listing your

with a far-off date, concentrate on total style.

name, address, phone and email saves time

Otherwise, find specific items to satisfy your

and effort. Pack them the night before.

goals. Fill your head with ideas, stuff your

at shows, online competitions where you as a

bag with information. Prizes at St. Louis’

Sunday, June 9

7

helps keep the bride and groom in touch for

one-on-one later.

2

planning updates from St. Louis’ Best Bridal

OUR NEXT BRIDAL SHOWS

WRITE DOWN IDEAS AND TAKE PICTURES. Supportive details make your

walk in FREE when she shows the acknowlProviding the wedding date and contact info

“I do.” Guidance for budgets, invitations, gifts,

6

advance at www.stlouisbestbridal.com may edgement on her phone or on a printout.

overviews detail tasks – wherever you live or say

and honeymoon.

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

9

TAKE A BREAK. Catch your

Best Bridal Shows include a FREE and

breath with that helpful cheerleader. Inhale

luxurious trip to a faraway destination.

with one eye on the fashions. See something you like? Return to the provider’s booth for

3

WEAR COMFY SHOES. You

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL CELEBRATION

will want to retrace your steps alongside

Saint Charles Convention Center

at least one close relative or friend who will encourage, rather than distract, you.

follow-up views. Special show-day offers may follow.

10

PRIZE REQUIREMENTS. When

Sunday, March 3

Perhaps the groom-to-be is this welcome

attendance prizes are promoted, find out

ST. LOUIS’ BEST BRIDAL “BEST OF THE BEST”

partner. Kids are welcome, but probably

if you must be present to win.

Saint Charles Convention Center Find show details, dates and special offers online at

will not be entertained.

4

stlouisbestbridal.com. couple shine, individual Cake Dives for brides and grooms and more surprise events.

Brides receive free bridal show tickets while

5

11

PLAN A RETURN ENGAGEMENT.

HAVE QUESTIONS READY FOR EXPERTS. Leave time for fun. Sample it

As your wedding requirement list shortens,

all – food to fashion, photos to honeymoon,

tasks. Each St. Louis’ Best Bridal Show is

then regroup to re-check the boxes.

unique with varied vendors so a follow-up

return to another show to fill still-to-do

look leads to filling exact needs.

BE UP-FRONT ABOUT BUDGET.

12

SMILE! CELEBRATE! This will be

they are available at Savvi Formalwear locations.

Providers want to meet your needs. This

For the person coming straight to the show, a

allows both sides to draw up, trace and track

the finest occasion of your life and YOU are

cash fee of $5 is payable at the door.

what potentially will work.

designing its details to make it happen.

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

143

starter file

FA S H ION

HOW TO

PUT ON A TUXEDO A STEP-BY-STEP BEGINNER’S GUIDE Adapted from SAVVI FORMALWEAR blog

FIRST THINGS FIRST

THE CUFF LINKS

smoothing as you go to avoid ruffles in the

Here is the preamble. All cleansing and

Go ahead and button up all buttons on your

trousers. Button the waistband and zip up. If

grooming should be complete before moving on

shirt to prepare for cuff links. Look for two

pants are not tailored exactly to your body or

with the task of the day. Shave, brush your teeth

button holes on the shirt cuff, one on the

you are wearing a rental, adjust side clamps

and fix your hair, etc. The last thing you want

outside of the wrist and one on the inside

for perfect fit.

is a toothpaste smudge on that fancy tuxedo

between the two buttons. Rotate the clasp of

before your big event even starts. This is a big

the cuff link to form a “T.” Using the other

THE TIE

occasion and you are not wearing a suit from

hand, push the cuff link’s small end through

Flip up your collar and button the shirt collar.

graduation.

the outside button hole. Bring the other side

Most tuxedo rental neckties have a hook and clasp at each end and an adjust-

THE SOCKS

able tab to lengthen or shorten

The first articles of clothing

it. If not, tie a simple tie knot

to grace your body should be

and use like a suit tie. Fasten

underwear (and undershirt

the tie around the neck and

if needed) followed by your

adjust it. Flip down the collar

socks, pulled up as high as

so it covers the entire tie.

possible. Sock technology in

The tie should be fit snugly.

this modern day should allow

Avoid sagging on the bow or

them to stay up on their own.

the knot.

THE SHIRT

THE VEST

Next comes the shirt, but

The vest should cover your

– wait! – first, put in the

waistband and hug the torso

shirt studs. Above each shirt

to create a clean silhouette,

button is a small hole for

should the jacket be removed.

a stud. Skipping the top

The back strap adjusts it.

button, place the first stud

Starting at the top, fasten a few

at the second button from the

buttons to check how it fits

top of the shirt. To insert it,

initially. If not ideal, remove

push the small colored side

the vest and loosen or tighten

through the hole until it

the back buckle. This may take a few trials to keep it snug, not

appears next to the original button. Apply one to each button hole going

of the cuff closer and continue pushing the

tight. When comfortable, button all buttons

down the shirt until all four studs have been

cuff link through the inside cuff between the

except the bottom one, which is traditionally

used. A cummerbund provided with a tuxedo

two buttons. Next, rotate the clasp to keep

left undone.

will cover the midsection, so all four studs will

the cuffs in place. Be sure to close the forearm

not be necessary when wearing one. Without a

button as well.

cummerbund, ideally your tuxedo jacket will be

144

THE JACKET Last comes the jacket. Traditionally you only

buttoned, hiding the one lower button without

THE PANTS

keep the top of the two buttons fastened.

a stud. Thus, when you put on the shirt, you

Put on your pants and pull them up to your

However, feel free to unbutton it when you

should fasten it with the studs, rather than

waist so the top of the waist band rests at

sit down. Let shirt cuffs and cuff links be just

using the buttons.

the hip bone. Tuck shirttails into the pants,

a tad visible under the jacket sleeve.

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

tuxedos

FA S H ION

Confident color Photography courtesy of SAVVI FORMALWEAR

Cornf lower blossoms in a Brunswick tuxedo from Allure Men. Lightweight comfort wool offers a slim fit jacket with two-button front closure and flap pockets for a youthful look.

 SPRING & SUMMER 2019

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

145

Light gray in Chrome, styled by Michael Kors, looks crisp with white accessories. A 2-1/2inch lapel has a notch cut in premium Venetian wool with fabric edge.

French facing provides cool reserve with lining hiding a color surprise of purple.

The groom wants to stand out with confidence on his big day.

A couple setting out to show style and personality on their wedding day guides the total look of a gentleman, youthful at any age, wearing a tuxedo or formal suit. Ann Rafferty of Savvi Formalwear said the quality clothing they choose coordinates and extends the day’s design.

Each season shades new colors so this year’s accents in blue and gray join ever-popular black for wedding dreams that even may become interchangeable over the course of the big day.

146

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

Opposite, top, Gray tones darker this time in Manhattan by Ike Behar. Forged in fine fabric, its notch lapel has a fabric edge, two buttons front the jacket with a formal look and side vents provice wearing comfort. | Bottom, Navy is color-of-choice in a clean and simple Sebastian tuxedo, timelessly elegant with two-button front, satin notch lapels, satin besom pockets and slim look, fashioned from luxuriously soft wool. Dark brown shoes wear a standard contrast with navy menswear.

SPRING & SUMMER 2019

STLOUISBESTBRIDAL.COM

147

Ike Behar turns up t he hue i n it s Brunswick style with cobalt, official name for a warm shade of royal blue.

Opposite, top left, For fun and fashion, a groom stands out in an Ike Behar burgundy Camden tuxedo jacket with black shawl lapels, a favorite detail with gentlemanly style. | Top right, Paisley in navy blue (or charcoal) from Couture is a go-to jacket for first dance or the whole day.

Formal glamour contrasts with classic black details: silk lapels, trousers and bow tie. Bottom left, Looking modern with vintage style, Ike Behar Dawson has white satin lapels on a shawl collar and other black accents. A black or white bow tie and vest are equally appropriate. | Bottom right, Styled to flatter all generations, medium steel gray Allure by Allure Men shouts with style in comfortable lightweight wool with flat-front pants. The jacket has a two-button closure, flap pockets and framed notch lapel and the back is side-vented for easy wearing in premium Venetian wool.

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Michael Kors provides tan Tahiti in premium Venetian wool, comfortable and soft in color and wearability for a warm-weather look.

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

Opposite, top, Ever-sophisticated black coordinates family and friends for the wedding.

Michael Kors Desire tuxedos in luxuriously soft Venetian wool have single-breasted, twobutton styling, satin notch lapels, besom pockets and side vents. Details identify who’s who.

The groom may take the high road with white or he coordinate with tie and vest in the color chosen for bridesmaids. | Bottom, Ike Behar provides another version of black, called Chandler, in luxurious super wool with satin shawl lapels. Suited for adults and children, trousers have a flat front and the jacket’s single-button closure and flapless besom pockets promote smoothness. Venting is in the center back.

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registry details



F E ATUR E S

Branch out: Hanging on Mud Pie twig taper holder, from left, enamel mugs from Creative Co-Op – “Why Hello There Gorgeous,” “You’re So Strong” and “Follow Your Heart”; (in branches) “More Is Butter” with “Butter My Buns” knife by Mud Pie; Southern Living hammered copper measuring cups. Below, left, Kate Spade All in Good Taste round food storage container duo; right, Miko cast iron teapot in light blue, enameled and infuser inside, from Pinky Up.

s m a e r d t e e of sw A bride and groom have a simple goal. Make a home. Together.

What design do they see? In a registry, newlyweds-to-be share their visions of mutual and individual appeal. Fond family and friends want to share the vision of their newly acquired style. A registry helps the effort by suggesting items found on a store’s shelves and online sources. It should be organized early in the engagement with hoped-for items varied in use, price and style. It can latch onto decorating stars, comfort the morning jump out of bed or be an exclusive personal luxury.

Items provided by DILLARD’S REGISTRY Photography by TROTTER PHOTO

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 Fitting and functional:  Casserole dishes with lids

 Teapot

 Cake plate and dome

 Paring knife

 Chip-and-dip server

 Cutlery, knife block, cutting boards

 Salad bowl and servers

 Can/bottle openers

 Wine rack, chiller, decanter, carrier

 Ice cream scoop

 Ice bucket and tongs

 High-temp mitts, pot holders

 Punch bowl and ladle

 Dishcloths and towels

 Vases

 Paper towel holder  Fruit bowl/ripener  Cookie jar

DINNERWARE  8-12 place settings: dinner plates, bowls,

 Cutting board

salad plates, dessert plates, cups and

 Canister set

saucers, forks, salad forks, teaspoons,

 Spice rack  Pot rack  Cookbooks  Food savers

FOR THE TABLE  Salt/pepper shakers  Oil, dressing cruets  Corkscrew  Trivets

soup spoons, knives and steak knives  Serving bowls, platters, utensils  Gravy boat  Butter dish and knives  Pitcher  Sugar bowl and spoon  Coffee mugs

GLASSWARE  8-12 water goblets, wine glasses, martini



IN THE KITCHEN

Both from Southern Living – nickelplated tissues and lotion dispeners plus jar with footed base and lid; Athena toothbrush and porcelain lotion holders with gray-patterned finish – on Edgemont Nova Noodle rug in cameo blue by Noble Excellence.

 Placemats, napkins, napkin rings

glasses, margarita glasses, champagne

Clean sweep: Bright Eyes Coffee

 Tablecloths and runners

flutes, highball/tumblers, water glasses

kitchen towel and strawberry napkin, both by Kate Spade New York.

 Coasters  Serving trays

 Water pitcher  Drying rack for fine glassware

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 Bar tending:

Glassware from Schott Zwiesel except where noted.

From left, pilsner beer, water glass (Noble Excellence), hobnail stemmed goblet (Southern Living), champagne saucer, hobnail water glass (Southern Living), stemless wine (Pure collection), martini glass.

COOKING & BAKING

APPLIANCES

 Skillet

 Microwave oven

 Griddle

 Coffee maker for single serving

 Saucepans and stockpot

and/or group

 Wok and stir-fry pan

 Coffee grinder

 Steamer

 Espresso/cappuccino machine

 Slow cooker

 Toaster

 Pressure cooker

 Mixer, hand and/or stand

 Hot pot

 Food processor; hand blender

 Baking sheets

 Griddle

 Pie pans

 Panini press

 Muffin pan

 Soda machine

 Cake pans

 Tea kettle

 Pizza pan, baking stone

 Bread maker

 Cooling racks

 Juicer or extractor

 Nonstick sheets for oven, baking

 Iced tea maker

 Mixing bowls

 Indoor grill

 Measuring cups and spoons

 Grilling utensils



 Rolling pin

For the road: Lightweight beauty travel case in pink croco hardcase from Triforce with detachable shoulder strap, vanity. Durable and lightweight, Lucas 20-inch spinner is expandable – and easy to spot.

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 Grater

AROUND THE HOUSE

 Spatulas

 Sheets, pillowcases, pillows

 Whisk

 Spread, blanket, comforter, duvet cover

 Potato masher

 Memory foam mattress topper

 Food, oven thermometers

 Desk lamp

 Kitchen timer

 Trash, garbage cans

 Kitchen scissors

 Wall and table clocks, alarm clock

 Knife sharpener

 Candles, candle holders

 Wedding fun: Insulated tumblers – Miss to Mrs for the bride and one for a bridesmaid – plus “the finishing touch” jar for olive oil, all by Kate Spade New York.  Wall sconces/wall anchors  Picture frames

ON THE GO, OUTDOORS  Suitcases, backpacks, duffle bags  Outdoor grill

 Bath towels

 Lightweight, unbreakable plates

 Bath mat

 Cooler, regular size, mini and wheeled

 Shower and sink accessories

 Packable grilling utensils

 Bed tray

 Acrylic wine glasses

 CD/DVD/magazine storage

 Picnic basket

 Traditional/robotic vacuum cleaner,

 Patio furniture

specialty cleaning aids, hand vac

 Portable chairs



 Magnifying mirror

 Step stool

 Bicycle

 Iron, ironing board, steamer

 Pop-up tent

 Laundry hamper

Home to cook: Left to right, Southern

 Indoor-outdoor light strings

 Storage boxes

 Portable hammock

 Entry, kitchen, bath mats

 Beach umbrella

 Tool set/toolbox/sewing kit

 Portable radio

 Box of screws/nails/picture hangers

 Fire pit

 Cordless screwdriver, drill drill

 Lanterns with LED lights

 DVD/CD player/game system

 Traveling table

 TV

 Beverage tub

Living “Bundtlette” mini pan by NordicWare; pink KitchenAid 5-cup mini food processor; “The Southern Living Party Cookbook: A Modern Guide to Gathering” by Elizabeth Heiskell; Southern Living cream-colored Alexa stoneware dinnerware; Kate Spade All in Good Taste graytrimmed mitt; pistachio-colored Lenox table napkins with embroidered edge; Kate Spade All in Good Taste aqua-blue, two-slice toaster; backdrop of luxurious, quartz-colored, 50-by-70-inch throw from Ugg Home Collection.

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L OV E S TORY

Ashley & Matt O C TO B E R 1 3 , 2 0 1 8

‘I feel really calm and like myself when I am with him.’

STORY BY JANICE DENHAM

✿

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARI PHOTOGRAPHY

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T he story began, “Once upon a time…” when

around her ankle, borrowed her grandmother’s

Ashley Harrison and Matt Fehr were preschoolers.

eighth-grade graduation purse and carried a great-

Their only memory is liking each other when

grandmother’s blue handkerchief. The groom

they were 3 years old at St. John’s United Church

wore baseball cuff links, a gift from Kyle, his

of Christ in Red Bud, Ill. Story of the crush

teenage godson.

continued through kindergarten. One day, when

Reading unexpected notes from each other set

Ashley was playing puppets with a friend, Matt

the stage. Their first look was at her parents’ home.

snuck up and kissed her on the cheek. On a dare

“It was better to experience more intimately,

or his own idea, he quickly ran away.

rather than onstage in front of 150 people,” Matt

“Our first kiss was back in 1989!” Ashley said.

said. “She sort of snuck up behind

In third grade, her family moved “away” –

me. We were both just excited.

It took off the pressure.”

25 miles down the road. Her friends thought Family support.

they should get “married” then and there. In fifth

The encounter eased their nerves. “After

Of four attendants, two were

grade, Matt worked up courage to call and invite

that, everything was fine,” the bride said. Her

siblings. A nephew also was

her out. Ashley faked asking permission and told

grandmother, a lifetime stabilizer, also was with

ring bearer. ‘We are both close to our families so including our siblings in our wedding party and having them sign our marriage license was important to us.

We are so lucky to have our amazing families.’

him her mom wouldn’t let her have a boyfriend.

her in the morning and Matt’s aunt took charge of

They grew up without stumbling into each

ceremony timing. Ashley’s 86-year-old grandfa-

other, not even at the annual Red Bud picnic.

In October 2009 they became Facebook

Following wise advice on their wedding day, Matt said, ‘We did our best to talk to everybody, but the time flies by. You have a whirlwind of emotions, too, so some things are almost a blur among the memories. We tried to sneak away and just breathe, to watch the party happening and everyone having fun.’

“We pretty much either made or built all the

we actually met again in person,” Ashley recalled.

reception décor from scratch, because I love to

Reconnecting with a friend led them to meet –

craft and Matt is handy. We built wood boxes

even when the friend cancelled. Matt added, “After

and stained them for the tables. We built an arbor

15 years, everything was extremely comfortable.”

for the altar. I hand-lettered a timeline on an

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old window.”

suit their personalities, they agreed, but also fit

Matt’s No. 1 request was to serve delicious

Matt’s early description of what would lie ahead.

food, so Salt + Smoke, a local restaurant, catered

“Almost from the first time we hung out, he told me relationships were marathons, not sprints,” Ashley explained. Advancing toward

Matt’s aunts baked cakes, including tiers for

a finish line, he was ready to propose on New

the aunts made, few survived the evening.

Year’s Eve 2017. By mid-afternoon, she suggested they eat out early.

“It kind of rushed my plans, but it just seemed like the time to do it. I threw it together at the

cutting a first slice and saving the rest for their first anniversary. Of almost a dozen varieties of chocolate candies, including turtles and caramels, The groom counted first-dance music as one of their hardest decisions. Down to four finalists, they drew Chris Stapleton’s “Tennessee Whiskey.” from a hat for the Ralph Butler Band to play

last moment like I do some things,” said low-key

Experiencing life together is important

Matt. He proposed in their Columbia, Ill., home.

to them for their long storybook story to end

They picked Main Street Abbey, just two

“happily ever after.”

blocks away while it still was being rehabbed from

“He just brings out the best in me. I feel really

church to event space. They hoped for autumn for

calm and like myself when I am with him. That

a casual ceremony in a traditional setting. Oct.

has longevity to it,” Ashley said.

13, 2018, was chilly and it rained late.

158

retired to Florida, married them.

friends. “We talked about a year online before

The rekindled tale for the next eight years

Moments to savor.

ther, formerly a pastor in Smithton and now

Matt discovered it in their teamwork.

Calling themselves “products of the ‘80s,”

“We can get through things and support each

they translated favorite colors – his was blue,

other,” he added. “It is one of the biggest things

hers pink – into details of dusty rose, navy and

that holds us together. We want what is best for

gray. Ashley wore her stepfather’s wedding band

each other.”

THE BEST WEDDINGS START HERE

PA R T Y PL A N S

away we go

Fare thee well Stepping into adventures on the road ahead of them, Rebecca Rhoten and Andrew Batchelor accept well wishes of guests at their wedding in Cahokia, Ill. Options for moving during the wedding day may include a limousine, also used by Rebecca and Andrew, and any number of ways to come and go, each planned with thoughtful preparation for ease. The couple may find their perfect getaway, limited only by the imagination, in a horse-drawn carriage-for-two or putter away in a golf cart.

A school bus or party bus helps move a group. They may head down their new path in a burst of bright fireworks or leave their own tracks on a motorcycle. Transitioning to their new home may be as unobtrusive or boisterous as they imagine.

Photography by TROTTER PHOTO

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After the

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