ENGAGED! River Valley Issue 17

ISSUE 17 2021

Covid Honeymoon WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Pandemic Weddings

REAL COUPLES AND THEIR COVID WEDDINGS SHARING THE

Honey Bee

THE SWEETEST INSPO SHOOT EVER

love IN OUR BEAUTIFUL River Valley

REGION

Photo by Neeley Photography

Photo by Kalli June Photography

Inspiration 8 Fresh Picked

Real Weddings

Photo by Boulder Creek Photography

Pro Tips

16 Gilded Earth

44 Alli & John

50 Meagan & Kelsey

26 Honey Bee

60 Alliyah & Afton

39 Start Off Your Financial Lives Together

66 Mackenzie & Adam

41 Safety First

76 Hayley & Christian 84 Peighton & Cody

4 Wedding Emotions

Photo by Neeley Photography

Local Love 33 Just Rennie’s Cafe & Cookie Company 36 5 Pink Peonies

73 Siciliano Subs

81 The Vanderburgh 4-H 57 Oh, The Places We Will Center Go

90 Ravyn & Zach

Photo by Boulder Creek Photography

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LETTER FROM THE EDITORS Warm weather is here, flowers are blooming, and the whole world feels like it is on the brink of better times.

After sloughing through a long, cold, pandemic winter, we cannot be happier to be back to planning beautiful inspiration shoots for you. We got to shoot at two gorgeous locations that we feel are some of the hidden gems of the Tri-State – R’z Café and Courtyard and the Barn Abbey in New Harmony. Both offer unique style and intimate experiences, and our Real Weddings this issue are so gorgeous. Even with all the gathering restrictions, these couples show how to do weddings right by focusing on the most important part, love. So flip through all the beauty and feel the hope that this issue brings.

Cheers!

CO N N E C T W I T H U S

JoElle Knight and Nikki Davis

@ENGAGEDRIVERVALLEY

@ENGAGEDRIVERVALLEY

ON OUR

@ENGAGEDRV

JOELLE KNIGHT

FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Cover

This cover shot was photographed by the talented Bree Neeley of Neeley Photography. This was her first time shooting for us, and we could not be happier with the talent she shared. As with all our inspiration shoots, we know a hiccup or two are bound to happen. But, this time, we weren’t sure we could pull off this lovely spring shoot! Our model had an emergency come up and had to cancel only 3 hours before start time. Thankfully, we have beautiful friends, both inside and out. Gelina Mascoe, our longtime gal pal swooped in to get fitted for a dress, drive to New Harmony and killed it – all within a 4 hour window of time! The results are stunning. So cheers to vendor friends, wonderful photographers and ladies who have your back. We don’t know what we would do without you.

When she is not busy showing houses and making real estate deals, Gelina also runs the Lumiere D'Education Foundation, a Haitian school near and dear to her heart. To find out more about the children and work behind this wonderful non-profit, go to www.lumierededucation.org

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NIKKI DAVIS

MANAGING EDITOR

Meet The Team BEHIND ENGAGED! JoElle Knight Co-founder and Editor-in-Chief JoElle Knight has been in the event and wedding business for over 15 years. Whether it is coordinating and creating community events for area nonprofits, creating beauty for weddings and many of the styled shoots you see on these pages, or getting giddy over new wedding venues, she always has an eye for quality, design and new trends. Obsessed with décor, DIY projects and home renovations, she loves to overhaul houses and bring personality into her surroundings.

When she is not writing, creating or designing, she is with her 3 kids and husband dreaming of new projects, summer yard sales and epic books. You can follow her on Instagram at @sycamorelifestyle

Bobbi Hammonds Web & Graphic Designer Bobbi has been our website guru since ENGAGED debuted, and she now handles the layout of each issue.

Bobbi began her graphic career over 10 years ago, specializing in design and hand illustration. Her artistry can also be found in many of our photoshoots showcasing her 5 Pink Peonies LLC, custom stationery.

A woman of many talents, she has written a children’s book, magazine articles and assisted many local businesses with their branding and marketing. Her greatest work, though, comes at home as the mother of 5 girls, one of which has special needs. She has become an advocate for local families dealing with children with special needs, and her handicap parking campaign has been featured on multiple local news sources. Bobbi’s idea of fun are home renovation projects, whimsical drawings, being with her family, and going to Disney World, her happiest place on earth.

Follow her on Instagram @my_5_girls

Nikki Davis Co-founder and Managing Editor Nikki Davis has been a leader in the local wedding industry for almost 20 years.

She began her wedding career as a photographer then moved into producing local wedding shows. In 2007, she founded the Evansville Wedding Networking Group to connect local wedding vendors and create friendships. Her passion for giving back has led her to be a driving force behind many local non-profit agencies and initiatives. Nikki is the organizational mind behind ENGAGED, where she uses her networking and writing skills to provide information and inspiration to local brides and connecting them to the local vendors that can bring their wedding to life. She lives in the Historic Boehne House in Evansville, where she, her husband and 2 kids take care of a menagerie of pets.

Check out more about Nikki and her family's many adopted pets on Instagram at @1000milemom

Julia Baker Accounts Manager Just call her Mama Bear.

Julia is not only our accounts manager, she is also Editor-in-Chief, JoElle Knight’s mother. With a career in sales, education and small business management, she was the perfect fit for representing ENGAGED! For years, she witnessed the passion and hard work put into the creation of the magazine and we couldn’t be happier to have her at the helm of our partner accounts. You will find no one else who champions the ENGAGED! brand more.

When she is not building relationships in our local wedding industry, she is loving on her grandchildren, traveling or doing home-reno projects.

FEATURE ARTICLE

Wedding Emotions

There are so many things to consider when

love. Agreeing to something you don’t want for

planning a wedding - it’s downright

the sole reason of pleasing mom, dad, aunt,

overwhelming! You’re not alone if you’re feeling

friend - WHOEVER - is not a good enough

weighed down, frustrated or just downright

reason. This is YOUR day, an expression of you

dreading your wedding. This feeling is very

and your partner’s love for each other. Everyone

common among brides and can ruin your

besides the two of you are guests at your

wedding if you let it - but where does it come

wedding. Not the other way around.

from? What is this that I’m feeling and why?

Many wedding traditions, ceremonies or even Recognizing your feelings, consciously

trends can shape your wedding day and a lot of

investigating their causes and addressing them

brides use these as foundations on which they

is an important self-care tactic. Doing this really

build and plan their wedding. Just make sure to

allows you to identify issues that may exist below

listen to your gut (you know, that little voice

the surface and could be affecting more than

inside your head) and don’t let societal roles

you realize. Large events or family gatherings -

define your wedding. If there’s something you

Weddings included - act as a magnet and

don’t like about a portion of the ceremony -

magnifying glass for these issues. Things you

don’t do it! If there’s something that means a lot

thought were resolved or didn’t bother you at

to you and your partner that would just make the

the time can fester and lie right below the

day even more special - do it! Your wedding is as

surface just waiting to erupt. Lots of brides

unique as you are - let your love shine

recommend doing a spa day to relax and

throughout the day!! Weddings don’t have to

prepare mentally for your big day, but it’s also

be a somber and tradition-heavy occasion

important to take emotional stock of your life

(unless you want it to be, then by all means

and what’s happening - because a lot of things

you do you!).

are changing for you at this time in your life.

On the day of your wedding, you’re going to be Family pressures are some of the most common

experiencing a lot of emotions. Like, all of the

issues brides face, and it goes hand in hand with

emotions. The sheer emotional stress of the day

trying to please everyone. When you’re planning

and how you handle it can definitely make or

your wedding, you spend so much time getting

break you. That’s why we’re talking about

advice from others and families are usually

dealing with some of these emotions

involved in varying levels. It takes a lot of

beforehand so you’re ready for them to pop up

courage and self-confidence to take charge of

unexpectedly on your wedding day. Do you

how you envision your wedding happening, but

have childhood trauma (and let’s be real - we all

remember: your wedding is for you and your

do) that you haven’t really dealt with? PRIOR to ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY

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the wedding is a good time to take care of that.

enjoy your day. Self-care is something all brides

Everyone has trauma of some shape or size, and

absolutely must do! Especially in a world as

you need to be very aware of the triggers that

chaotic as this one. Don’t let your self-care

bring it up for you. Let’s see if you can fill in the

routine stop with physical things. Your future self

blanks here. Rocky past history with your

will thank you!

______________? _______________ hasn’t been around much of your life but suddenly is all up in

Abby Heidenreich

your business? Your ________________ thinks

Day One

everything you’ve done so far with the wedding

dayoneweddings.net

is all wrong?

abby@dayoneweddings.net

Be honest, these are the things that keep you up at night - or that you wake up in the middle of the night suddenly worried about. How can you take control? By addressing these issues intentionally and in a healthy way. Don’t let them keep you up at night. Set aside a time for you to write out all of these fears, doubts, relationship issues and really take a look at them. It’s okay to allow yourself to feel them. Maybe write out one thing you’d like to say to fix it. This is the most important part, though, so stay with me! Once you have all of those things written out in front of you, crumple it up. Uncrumple it. Crumple it again. Throw it. Burn it. Do whatever you need to do to release those feelings in a cathartic way.

Giving yourself the permission to experience these tough emotions, address them, and then let them go will allow you to be fully present on your wedding day. You’ll have already dealt with the little nagging issues that have bugged you for months and when something happens on your wedding day it won’t be the last straw! You will feel more peace and have the ability to truly

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Just Rennie’s Catering can help make your dream wedding come true

Jesse & Gena Photography

Dreams come true Esther Bloom Photography

We cater at: Just Rennie’s Tuscan Wine Room City View at Sterling Square The Crescent Room Discovery Lodge Evansville Museum The Old Courthouse The Old Post Office The Pagoda JustRennies.com 812-401-8098

Esther Bloom Photography

ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY EXCLUSIVE INSPIRATION

Fresh Picked

Produced by JoElle Knight & Nikki Davis

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Get this Look PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATION

NEELEY PHOTOGRAPHY

THE MACLEOD BARN ABBEY – NEW HARMONY, IN

DESIGN & DÉCOR JOELLE ELISE DESIGN FLORAL

ZEIDLERS

BRIDAL GOWN CAKE

ROSE & BLISS BRIDAL

PIECE OF CAKE BAKERY ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY

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ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY EXCLUSIVE INSPIRATION

Gilded Earth Produced by Emilee Kerner

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Get this Look PHOTOGRAPHY EMILEE KERNER PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATION WHITE CHATEAU – OWENSBORO, KY FLORAL PETAL & PINE DÉCOR & RENTALS JOELLE ELISE DESIGN BRIDAL GOWN HOUSE OF WHITE WEDDING PLANNER MEGAN LENTZ OF VIDA EVENTS STATIONERY HOWL CREATIVE CO. HAIR & MAKEUP BRIDES BY AUBREE

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ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY EXCLUSIVE INSPIRATION EXCLUSIVE INSPIRATION

Honey Bee Produced by JoElle Knight

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Get this Look PHOTOGRAPHY BOULDER CREEK PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATION THE LOFT AT R’Z CAFÉ & THE COURTYARD AT THE BRICKHOUSE DÉCOR & FLORAL JOELLE ELISE DESIGN RENTALS R’Z CAFE BRIDAL GOWN BETH CARTER EXQUISITE BRIDAL STATIONERY 5 PINK PEONIES

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Just Rennie’s Café & Cookie Company

AND THE TUSCAN WINE ROOM - CHEF DOUG AND MARLA RENNIE

Chef Doug & Marla Rennie founded the

With amenities like complimentary wireless

company in September 2003.

internet and a 55” smart television, plus full bar service and liquor license, your event will be a

Step off a street in downtown Evansville and into a classic bistro in Tuscany. That’s the experience you’ll have when you let Chef Doug and Marla Rennie help you plan your next event in their beautiful Tuscan Wine Room. The comfortable, unique setting makes everything from corporate meetings to wedding rehearsal dinners and private parties memorable.

smooth success.

And best of all, Chef Doug’s exceptional cuisine with have your guests talking for a long time.

Tuscan Wine Room 100 SE 4th Street (812) 401-8098 Evansville, IN 47708 ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY

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Just Rennie’s is an exclusive caterer at the

Just Rennie’s Café & Cookie Company was

Old Post Office.

founded in 2007. It is located at 102 SE 4th

Enjoy the historic beauty and convenient Downtown location of the banquet facilities in Evansville’s Old Post Office. Everything from wedding receptions and rehearsal dinners to corporate events will be memorable in this unique setting. www.OldPostOfficePlaza.com 100 NW 2nd Street Facilities We cater to these Locations Old Post Office Tuscan Wine Room The Old Court House The Granary in New Harmony The Crescent Room at Milestone The Pagoda The Evansville Museum City View at Sterling Square Koch family Children’s Museum Friedman’s Park We do have our Famous Just Rennie’s Gourmet Cookies boxes that can be used as a gift for bridal shower, baby shower, and gifts for guests at wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners. We also do nation wide shipping in all 50 states, military bases on -line. We can also ship to any country oversees. Please go to justrennies.com

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Street in Downtown Evansville. We serve made from scratch salads, deli salads, sandwiches and wraps. Our Pastry Chef Terry Spindler creates our wonderful assortment of house made desserts, and we have outdoor seating.

Just Rennie’s Café & Cookie Company 102 SE 4th Street 812-490-8098 Monday thru Friday (9am-3:00pm)

STATIONERY

5 Pink Peonies

Bobbi Hammonds Owner/Artist 5 Pink Peonies - Hand Illustrated Custom Stationery 5pinkpeonies.com Etsy.com/shop/5PinkPeonies Professional photos provided by Shillawna Ruffner Photography

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Bob Davis, Agent 1209 Lincoln Ave Evansville, IN 47714 Bus: 812-491-7888 www.evansvillesf.com

FINANCES

Start Off Your Financial Lives Together Being prepared to start off your financial lives together is one of the most important steps you can take before your wedding. There are five easy steps that can prepare you to successfully begin your financial lives together.

Transparency is key. Begin by showing your full financial picture to each other. Discuss all your debts, savings, thoughts on investing, and goals.

Most couples will want to combine their bank accounts. If you both will be following a joint plan for your finances, then a joint account usually will make the most sense. It is best to work together to create a spending plan to help in creating a “we’re in this together” approach.

Set goals and start a budget. Work together to figure out what you can realistically afford. Set a goal for your personal savings each month.

Discuss how much each of you will set aside for retirement. How much of an emergency fund is needed (3 months income is a common goal). A budget is key to understanding how much should be available for savings each month.

Investigate money management software and apps. Many free options are available. Just be prepared to openly discuss your finances and review your budget each month for changes that are needed.

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is also often available through your employer’s benefit plan. Be sure to compare cost as often it is a better deal to find your own life insurance options. Dying without a will creates havoc and possible hardships for your surviving family members. Contact an estate or probate attorney to assist you in creating a well thought out will that matches your needs.

Put your relationship first. You will build a stronger relationship by honestly discussing your plans for your new joint finances. You will build a stronger marriage, future, and family by having a plan that you both have agreed upon to start your marriage. If you are working together as a team, your financial goals will be much Plan for your taxes and retirement. Fill out a new W-4 with your employer to update your marital status and withholdings. Maximize your employers matching contributions for their 401K plan. Is an HSA needed for your new joint health insurance plan? If a 401K plan is not available with your employer or you are self-employed, is an IRA needed to set aside tax deferred funds for retirement?

It is time for life insurance and a will. Young couples never think an unexpected death will happen to them, but we all know stories of young families that have been affected by an unexpected illness or accident. Term life insurance is inexpensive for young couples and can have you covered for up to 30 years. This will allow your surviving family members to be able to maintain their current lifestyle. Life insurance 40 ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY

easier to achieve.

Chris Dunning VP, Community Executive & Regional Manager United Fidelity Bank

FEATURED ARTICLE

Safety First At this point in the pandemic, COVID-19 related

A few of the major points to include are:

restrictions will likely to continue to vary by state

• Social Distancing: How large is your event

and location.

space and how much can you spread your

The reality of it is that this is unavoidable and

attendees out? Does your ceremony space

likely for some time.

allow for seats to be left open between family

What was supposed to be the happiest time of

groups? Are you going to do a receiving line

your life is constantly hanging by a few threads

after the ceremony? If so, plan to have hand

that are fraying due to things you cannot control

sanitizer ready!

- to say it’s tough to handle would be an understatement. Your mental health is SO

• High Contact Surfaces: Doorknobs, bathrooms,

important right now, especially given all the

or any other high traffic areas need to be

extra stress you’re now taking on as you plan a

sanitized frequently. Guest books are great,

COVID wedding. If you’re like me at all,

but consider having a basket of pens stationed

situations out of your control just give you the

with your book so guests can keep the pen

heebie-jeebies, so let’s focus on a few things you

they use to sign, rather than everyone touching

can control.

the same pen. Is your dinner being served or are you doing a buffet? If you’re doing a buffet,

A safety plan is a great way to get ahead of

consider having one person filling plates so

future unforeseen issues - and it’s easier than

everyone isn’t touching the utensils.

you think to put one together! There are many templates online that guide you through the

• Masks: It’s a hotly debated topic, but you can

process according to your state and county's

make the decision on requiring or suggesting

requirements. Even as people are becoming

masks. Enforcing mask wearing is a whole

vaccinated and restrictions are starting to lift, it’s

other ballgame, but if you are intent on doing

still a good idea to have a plan. As we’ve seen

so, enlist the help of your wedding party and a

over the last year, things can change

few guests to remind others of your wishes.

dramatically in a short period of time - staying ahead of the issues is just one more thing you

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about the safety plan you intend to follow, I strongly suggest using some signage at your wedding! You can find some free downloadable signs at https://www.dayoneweddings.net/ resources . It’s completely possible to have cute signage that matches your decor but still communicates your wishes. Doing so will not only make things clear for your guests but also give you peace of mind - and let’s be honest, that’s the most important thing!

Abby Heidenreich Day One dayoneweddings.net abby@dayoneweddings.net

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Alli & John

ALLI & JOHN In Alli’s words, “In 2019 John and I were both living in Indianapolis. He was in school at IUPUI getting his chemistry degree and I moved there to work at St. Vincent Hospital as a nurse. It was the weekend of St. Patrick’s Day, and one of my best friends Kate convinced me to go to Evansville to celebrate with her and her boyfriend Ben, who is also John’s best friend. Ben convinced John to come to Evansville the same night and we all met up. We fell in love that night (the reason for our matching four leaf clover tattoos).

We were lucky to be able to live in the same city for the time we spent dating. Soon we found out that John got accepted into the University of Louisville Dental School where he got the opportunity to spend the next four years. He found someone to be his roommate, and we decided we would do long distance. In June of 2020, I went with John to look at apartments for him and his new roommate in Louisville. We spent the day driving around looking at places, and we found the most amazing apartment that we could both see our lives playing out in. As we were finishing up the day, talking about the future and saddened that we would have to live two hours apart, John looked at me and said let’s just get married before I move here and start school! That same day we went and picked out a ring, signed for that apartment and called our parents and said we wanted to get married August 1st (only 2 months away).

Everyone was on board! We planned everything so fast, and in a pandemic, none the less! The way everything fell so perfectly into place made it obvious to us that it was meant to be. The outdoor wedding of my dreams came together in spite of an entire day of rain. It was the absolute greatest day of my life! We have been married almost for a year now and I’ve found marriage to be the greatest gift I’ve ever been given.

I’m so thankful for this crazy, hectic, perfect love story that is ours. ”

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Making Magic PHOTOGRAPHER KALLI JUNE PHOTOGRAPHY FLORAL PRETTY PETALS RENTALS BAUER’S TENTS & PARTY RENTALS BRIDAL GOWN MARIE GABRIEL COUTURE INDIANAPOLIS, IN BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES LULUS.COM MENSWEAR ILLUSIONS BRIDAL HAIR AMBER JO HEAD TO TOE MAKEUP ALL ABOUT YOU CAKE CAKE SHOPPE CATERING SANDERS

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ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY REAL WEDDING

Meagan & Kelsey

MEAGAN & KELSEY In Kelsey’s words, “Meagan and I met in 2013 as nurses at a local hospital but didn't start dating until 2016. We enjoyed traveling, going to concerts, and raising our labradoodle, Oliver. We got engaged in 2018 at West Baden. Even before getting engaged I knew I wanted to get married at 20West. When we toured, we both instantly fell in love with the intimacy and details of the venue. It was the best decision to have a romantic, intimate wedding with our closest friends and family in attendance.

When planning our wedding, it was important to us to use LGBTQ friendly vendors that we could form a personal relationship with. We found an awesome officiant who really got to know us individually and as a couple. She provided the most heartwarming recap of our love story that had people crying, then laughing. We cut into our delicious cake to reveal a rainbow cake layer.

We did a unity tree watering ceremony with soil from each of our hometowns (Tennessee and Kentucky) and watered it with water from our current home (Indiana). These special details, personal touches, and lifelong friendships contributed to our perfect wedding! We wouldn't change a thing!”

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Making Magic PHOTOGRAPHER PATTON PHOTO VENUE 20WEST KELSEY'S DRESS HOUSE OF WHITE MEAGAN'S SUIT BHLDN KELSEY'S HAIR LOGAN AT IMPULSE SALON AND SPA MEAGAN'S HAIR AND MAKEUP BRIE AT IMPULSE SALON AND SPA KELSEY'S MAKEUP TRICIA AT IMPULSE SALON AND SPA RINGS BRINKERS JEWELERS BRIDESMAID'S DRESSES AZAZIE FLORIST SOMETHING BORROWED BLOOMS CAKE CAKES BY SHAE CATERER BAUERHAUS CATERING & PASTRY OFFICIANT CAROL WORCEL- WITH THIS RING DJ DJ MCNAUGHTY

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DESTINATIONS & HONEYMOONS

Oh, the Places We Will Go

As we get further into 2021, the thought of travel is building excitement for many. With postponed weddings, honeymoons, and family

vacations, the demand in travel for summer 2021 and in 2022 is extremely high! US National Parks and Florida are among the top US destinations, so keep in mind they most likely will be crowded. When demand is high, that unfortunately can bring fewer “deals,” so planning far in advance is suggested for better pricing.

With the current COVID19 situation many are choosing to travel within the United States.

Many states have visitor restrictions that can change frequently. As more people get vaccinated, the more opportunities to travel will open. The cruise lines are beginning to cruise again this summer for those who are fully vaccinated, and a few foreign countries are also allowing fully vaccinated visitors. Several entities are working on a Vaccine Passport to assist with getting destinations to lessen the restrictions.

Travel today has certainly changed. What are the travel restrictions, do I need a negative COVID test (if so, which kind), do I need to be ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY

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vaccinated, do I need a star on my license to fly, should I get Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance are among the many questions your travel advisor can answer. Using a travel advisor is more important than ever.

As Travel Smart celebrates our 30th year in business, we are excited to help others to create their dream destination, honeymoon or family vacation. Contact one of our experience team members and know that Travel Smart is here for you before, during and following your trip.

Tina Brunck Travel Smart 13601 Hwy 41 North Evansville, IN 47725 www.choosetravelsmart.com (812) 867-0022

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HAND ILLUSTRATED CUSTOM WEDDING STATIONERY, SIGNAGE, SEATING CHARTS & MORE

5PinkPEONIES.COM ETSY.COM/5PINKPEONIES

ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY REAL WEDDING

Alliyah & Afton

ALLIYA & AFTON In Alliyah’s words, “We met at Southern Illinois University Carbondale during an EastAsian Civilization course. Our encounter seemed to be designed by a rom-com movie.

He always wore tye-die shirts, brought gallons of water to class, and was always going on about weight lifting and nature. I was a goody-twoshoes that brought apple juice to classes and adored everything that was French and Marvel movies. We bonded over East-Asian cuisine and that's where we went for our first date. He brought the love and beauty of nature out of me. And, I got Afton to enjoy two-hour-long movies and refined cuisine.

On our wedding day we were blessed that, in the midst of the pandemic, the majority of our guests were fortunate enough to be vaccinated and able to celebrate safely. I wanted a woodsy/Beauty and the Beast-inspired wedding.

Our family friend, Robyn Brownlow, dedicated an original spoken-word poem piece to us at our ceremony. I am a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and my sorority sisters serenaded us in the middle of the dance floor. Our favorite moment of the wedding was having the string quartet play throughout the ceremony. It truly brought tears to both of our eyes and was the best day of our lives.”

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Making Magic PHOTOGRAPHY BOULDER CREEK PHOTOGRAPHY PLANNING & DESIGN DANIELLE BECKNER, FOUR SEVEN EVENT PLANNING VENUE DRAGONFLY WEDDING VENUE VENUE COORDINATOR ANA PEREZ OF DRAGONFLY WEDDING VENUE VIDEOGRAPHY MELISSA JAE FILMS WEDDING CAKE CAKES BY ALLY DJ VIP ENTERPRISES MAKEUP ARTIST SLAY BY TAY WEDDING GOWN BLUSH & IVORY BOUTIQUE BRIDESMAID'S DRESSES AZAZIE MENSWEAR MR. TUXEDO & BRIDAL

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Mackenzie & Adam

MACKENZIE & ADAM In Mackenzie’s words, “Adam and I met through work when we were both therapy techs at Gateway Hospital. After a few weeks and a lot of flirting, Adam asked me out on a date to Buffalo Wild Wings to watch post season baseball. I’m a Cardinals fan, he’s a Yankees fan. Thank God we love teams from different leagues! We have to give credit to our good friend Jessie who set us up and played matchmaker.

Without her, we would not be where we are today!

Wedding planning during a pandemic while also attending nursing school was not easy and sadly I was not as involved as I wanted to be. I have to give a big thanks and a lot of credit to my mom during the wedding planning process. She helped design our table decorations and floral arrangements. My sister custom built the backdrops we used behind our head table and for photos with guests.”

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Making Magic PHOTOGRAPHY PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY VENUE CAMBRIDGE GOLF COURSE FOOD AND BEVERAGES CAMBRIDGE GOLF COURSE BRIDAL GOWN ELLA PARK BRIDAL MENSWEAR PAUL’S MENSWEAR HAIR MORGAN TENBARGE MAKEUP ALEXANDRIA SPARKS CAKE CREATIVE CONFECTIONS BOUTIQUE DESSERT MAIN STREET ANNEX DÉCOR & FLORAL MOTHER OF THE BRIDE

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Siciliano Subs

Siciliano Subs on Franklin Street pivoted when

company specializing in subs, salads, AND

their sandwich business took a nose dive during

charcuterie for spec. The response was

the pandemic. Owners David and Danielle

overwhelming. The couple has now married

Hodge thought of more options their customers

their love for subs with their passion for catering

would need, especially when it came to small

small, intimate events. Owner David Hodge

social distanced gatherings. Over a glass of

loves the ability to create art with food. They

wine, the couple thought charcuterie would be

create charcuterie and use several interesting

an interesting way to utilize their love of Boars

vessels to house their products. From numbers,

Head meats and cheeses along with fresh

letters, mini cones, boxes, even grazing tables,

produce and seasonal offerings. They quickly

Siciliano Subs has a solution for every occasion.

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Siciliano Subs 2021 W. Franklin Street Evansville, IN 47712 www.sicilianosubsandmore.com (812) 303-3382 sicilianosubs@gmail.com 74 ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY

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Hayley & Christian

HAYLEY & CHRISTIAN In Hayley’s words, “We first met in October 2017 through a dating app. Christian’s picture looked so familiar to me but little did I know I had actually seen him multiple times at the hospital where I was a patient care technician and Christian was an EMT. He would come and pick up patients of mine when they were discharged from the hospital. After talking for a couple days, Christian asked me out for coffee. I had never been asked to go out on a coffee date, so I immediately knew something was different about him. I remember telling my mom that he was kind of weird. My mom looked me in the eyes and said, ‘Haley, you do know that you are one of the weirdest people I know.’ Ever since then I have not looked back. We fell in love so fast. I knew he was my soulmate within two months. We got engaged only 6 months later.

For our wedding, we had a vision of country chic. A mix of rustic and bling. The Discovery Lodge was the perfect venue for our special day. Our wedding ceremony music was one of the things that described our love story. Millionaire by Christ Stapleton, Prayed for You by Matt Stell – these are very special songs to us and remind us both of how much we love each other. For me, one of the most important details was making sure it felt as if my Pawpaw was there with us that day. He passed away unexpectedly in February 2020.

His yellow SSR was at the venue the entire day and we made sure to take beautiful photos with it to pay tribute to him. It was the perfect day. One that we both will cherish forever. ” ENGAGED! RIVER VALLEY

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Making Magic PHOTOGRAPHY NEELEY PHOTOGRAPHY VENUE THE DISCOVERY LODGE DÉCOR & DESIGN JUST YOUR STYLE EVENTS FLORAL ZEIDLERS FLOWERS CATERER MARX BBQ CAKE TARA FORSTON CUPCAKES SAM’S CLUB MAKEUP EMILEIGH FRANZ HAIR BLUSH HAIR STUDIO BRIDAL GOWN DAVID’S BRIDAL BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES ELLA PARK BRIDAL MENSWEAR ELLA PARK BRIDAL

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LOCAL HISTORY

The Vanderburgh 4-H Center

The Vanderburgh County 4-H Center began its

founders of this simple gathering place knew

proud history in 1950 on a rural 51-acre site that

that they had laid the foundation for one of the

offered a beautiful, unspoiled country setting.

finest activity complexes in the tri-state region.

The terrain was rough and the trees were plenty but when area farmers worked together to

As the years progressed, an auditorium and

spruce up the land, it was soon ready for its first

livestock pavilion, a grandstand, and other

big event: the popular Scott-Vanderburgh

structures were built to accommodate the

County Fair. The site was originally named the

growing number of events. The grounds

Rural Center and got its start, in fact, because the

provided a wonderful place where farmers and

fair had outgrown the grounds of the Scott

their children could learn new technologies,

School.

show their animals and crops, and meet socially.

The Rural Center was incorporated in August, 1950, and was renamed the Vanderburgh County Rural Center. It is doubtful that the

In November of 1957 the Center became known as the Vanderburgh County 4-H Club

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Photo by Shillawna Ruffner Photography

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Association, Inc. As a newly-incorporated nonprofit organization, the 4-H Center retained its commitment to continue developing facilities for educational, and recreational activities for area young people and adults. By 1972, the Center had acquired additional land, giving the organization a total of 192 acres on which to grow.

Today the Vanderburgh 4-H Center offers surrounding communities a unique complex of modern facilities that are exceptionallymaintained and managed by professionals. It remains the hub of many youth-oriented events and has diversified, as well, to become a desirable spot for corporate meetings and dinners, conventions, sporting events, and a variety of other private and public activities. The 4-H Center invites you to experience the charm of its rural setting and the convenience of spacious, accommodating facilities. There is much to discover at the Vanderburgh 4-H Center including booking the facility for wedding and events!

Visit their website at: vanderburgh4hcenter.com for more information or contact them at

Photo by Shillawna Ruffner Photography

812. 867.6217 info@vanderburgh4hcenter.com

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Peighton & Cody

PEIGHTON & CODY In Peighton’s words, “Cody and I met in the small town of Burnt Prairie, Illinois. A couple weeks later Cody was driving three hours to take me out to dinner on our first date. One of my friends said ‘He’s the one,’ after that first night. Turns out she was right! We dated for a few years as I completed my nursing degree and Cody began his career as a seed salesman/farmer. For four years I fell in love with the most amazing man, and I am grateful to continue falling in love with him every day. Cody surprised me with a proposal in front of a beautiful barn and a custom ring he designed with a local jeweler.

The unexpected state of the world caused us to have to change everything about our original wedding plan.

Thankfully, it was a blessing in disguise. We united our lives in the backyard of Cody’s grandparents’ home looking out over their pond in the town where we first locked eyes. Our families set up, decorated, and added plenty of homemade touches. Each picture I see of that day is so meaningful knowing all the hidden details and the hard work our loved ones put in to make it come together. It was an intimate celebration with close family and friends, nothing short of perfection in our eyes.”

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Making Magic PHOTOGRAPHER ESTHER BLOOM PHOTOGRAPHY SPECIALTY LIGHTING MISTLETOE & IVY FLORAL GRACIE MAE’S FLOWERS & GIFTS RINGS H.D. BEAN JEWELERS DRESS REBECCA’S WEDDING BOUTIQUE CUSTOM DRESS SLEEVES HEATHER GREENBOMBSHELL BOUTIQUEZ MEN’S APPAREL JOS. A. BANKS CAKE THE TEA CUP CATERING LITTLE GIANT MAKEUP WHITNEY ZENNER WITH CHANEL BEAUTY

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Ravyn & Zach

RAVYN & ZACH In Ravyn’s words, “It all start when we were around 8 and 9 years old. Zach and I both showed barrel horses here in Southern Indiana, so we would see each other every spring until early fall. We were always in a large group of friends but he was the one I always had a crush on.

There was one horse show in particular where an older boy was being mean to my little brother and Zach stepped in to help him out. On that very day he asked me to be his girlfriend, but being so young and not living close to each other it didn’t last long. But when we were about 13 years old he asked me out again and of course I said yes. I also had my very first kiss with him that night. The relationship didn’t last long again because of our age and distance between us. But, when I was a senior in high school and he was a freshman in college I knew it was our time. I texted him one day and said, when you get a chance I want to go hang out one night. Well that was 2015 and we are still together. Skip forward a couple years and we’ve moved in together, have a couple dogs and are loving life. December of 2018 is when he finally asked me to spend the rest of our lives together. We wanted to get married September of 2019 but everything was already booked up by then. So we decide on September 26, 2020 which happens to be his grandparents anniversary. When the 2020 pandemic happened, we were so worried on the venue not being able to hold all of our loved ones at once. So our mothers talked about it and told us they thought we should have the wedding at our home. That was 3 months before our wedding date, so it was very stressful on all of us. But, with the help of both sides of the families it was the wedding of our dreams.”

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Making Magic PHOTOGRAPHY NEELEY PHOTOGRAPHY BRIDAL GOWN DAVID’S BRIDAL BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES DAVID’S BRIDAL MEN’S SHIRTS & JACKETS CINDERELLA’S - TELL CITY, IN RENTALS BAKOS - OWENSBORO, KY CAKE SUSAN RAY CATERING NEW BOSTON TAVERN DJ KEVIN FELDPAUSH

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Advertiser Directory 5 Pink Peonies 5pinkpeonies.com 812.483.4193 bobbihammonds@gmail.com FB @5PinkPeonies A.C.Thomas House Bed & Breakfast 503 West Main Street New Harmony, IN 47631 ACThomasHouse.com FB @acthomashouse Beth Carter Exquisite Bridal & Formal Wear 324 E. 4th Street Huntigburg, IN 47542 bethcarter.us FB @BCBridal Bob Davis State Farm 2727 N First Avenue Evansville, IN 47710 812.491.7888 evansvillesf.com FB @agentbobdavis

Cambridge Golf Course and Banquet Room 1034 Beacon Hill Evansville, IN 47725 812.868.1270 cambrigegc.com FB @Cambridgegc Capers Emporium 602 Main Street New Harmony, IN 47631 capersemporium.com FB @CapersEmporium Day 1 Wedding Coordination dayoneweddings.net

abby@dayoneweddings.net

Lush Esthetics and Boutique

FB @dayoneweddingcoordination

506 E. 4th Street Huntingburg, IN 47542

Emily Fife Harpist

812.684.0018

207.860.9354

FB @thelush506

mrs.EmilyFife11@gmail.com emilyfifeharpist.com

Neeley Photography

FB @EmilyFifeHarpist

neeleyphotography.com neeleyphotography@sbcglobal.net

Elope at the Old Courthouse

812.217.0992 FB

IDoattheOCH.com

@NeeleyPhotography

Historic Boehne House

Piece of Cake

FB @historicboehnehouse

20 Main Street Evansville, IN 47708

JoElle Elise Design

812.424.CAKE (2253)

FB @JoElleEliseDesigns

pieceofcakebakery.com

IG @JoElleEliseDesign joelleelisedesign.com

R’z Cafe and Catering Company Venues

Just Rennie’s

104 N Main Street

100 SE 4th Street

Fort Branch, IN 47648

Evansville, IN 47708

rzcafeandcatering.com

812.401.8098

812.615.0039

justrennies.com

IG @RzVenues

FB @justrennies

IG @rzcafe

FB @RzVenues

FB @rzcafeandcateringcompany Just Your Style Event Rentals 812.453.5841

Talk to Tucker List With Nikki EVV

FB @justyourstyleeventrentals

812.449.4118 nikkidavis@fctuckeremge.com

Kayla Vines Photography

listitwithnikkievv.com

kaylavinesphotography.com kaylaevines@outlook.com

United Fidelity Bank

812.431.0595

Various locations in Evansville,

FB @kaylavinesphotography

Mt. Vernon, and Newburgh 812.424.0921 (main office)

Knob Hill House

unitedfidelity.com

812.205.7039 1024 Hwy 662

Zeidler’s Flowers

Newburgh, IN 47630

812.421.1234

knobhillhouse.com

zeidlersweddings.com

knobhillhouse@gmail.com

FB @zeidlersflowers

ISSUE 13 2020

Wedding Planning

DURING COVID

Bonfetti

EPIC CREATIVITY AND FUN

Editors’ Picks

THE BEST OF 2019 WEDDINGS!

SHARING THE

love

IN OUR BEAUTIFUL

River Valley

REGION

CHECK OUT ALL OUR GORGEOUS ISSUES

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