Wedding Belles

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WEDDING BELLES

CONTRIBUTORS

PRESIDENT

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GROUP PUBLISHER

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OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

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DESIGNER | MAGAZINE LAYOUT

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GRAPHICS | ADVERTISING

SUSAN LAMBERT, AMANDA MEADOWS, JASMAINE MOTLEY

EDITORIAL

DEBRA FERRELL, DIANA MCFARLAND, JAMI SNEAD, ALICE PRIVAL. TERRY HARRIS, LUCI WELDON, KATIE WRIGHT THOMAS

ADVERTISING

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FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHERS

FOCUS ON THE MOMENT PHOTOGRAPHY

BRANCH & VINE PHOTOGRAPHY

LAUREN LANE PHOTOGRAPHY

LAURA MAE PHOTOGRAPHY

KELLY WELLS PHOTOGRAPHY

JESSI LANCASTER PHOTOGRPAHY

OCEAN AND RIDGE PHOTOGRAPHY

BRYNN GROSS PHOTOGRAPHY

SILVER AND CHAULK PHOTOGRAPHY

CREATIVE DESIGN

Community

Avoca

Weddin

Planning the perfect wedding!

wedding!

Maid of Honor & The Best Man

A list of duties that are specific to these honorable roles

Floral Decor

How to choose the perfect floral designer for your special day

Choosing your Bridal Bouquet

An interview with David Dickens, owner and head florist of Exquisite Creations 52

Signature Drinks

Personalizing your wedding via the beverage menu

Bridal Beauty Countdown Planning for your perfect day

On the Cover

This young couple chose to have their wedding within a beautiful garden with a dreamy forest as their backdrop. Providing a simple yet almost fairytale-like image.

STORY BY ALICE PRIVAL

SERENITY AT SENECA LAKE

A perfect venue for starry-eyed brides & grooms

Photos courtesy of Focus on the Moment Photography

Entering the lush fields surrounding Seneca Lake and leading up to the place where couples will tie the knot is the awe-inspiring walls of Knotty Pine (each plank of which was hand stained by Rochelle Ackerman with love in each stroke). Ackerman is the owner and creator of Seneca Lake Venue.

She loves each wedding and shares the heart of the

happy couple, hoping that they will return for their first baby shower, their birthdays, graduation, and grace the place with another generation’s wedding!

Ackerman dreams with her clients, plans with them, cares about each detail as if it were her own. Seneca Lake Venue becomes part of her clients’ legacy, an extension of home.

Shown above, owner/operator Rochelle Ackerman is happy to welcome all to this beautiful facility where clients’ special occasions take on new dimensions in the scenic outdoors/indoors venue in Gladys Virginia.

Seneca Lake Venue is located on a 200 acre private farm in the rolling country side of Gladys, Virginia. The venue offers old-time rustic charm to hold any type of special occasion including weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays.

Five years ago Seneca Lake was only a dream, a concept.

Ackerman reflects proudly, “My son Dustin designed this building. He is a natural architect. He can design anything!”

The building began construction in March of 2021 and opened August 20, 2022; by fall there had been nine weddings!

Fast forward to this spring - there have been five weddings and reservations filling up! Ackerman’s eyes light up as she sweeps her arm across the outdoor expanse showing off the two acre lake and the spectacular views that await future clients who have a choice of outdoor weddings in the warm weather and indoor weddings beneath the soaring ceilings, warmed by a spectacular stone fireplace.

For the brides preparing for their entrance into marriage, a waiting room with everything a bride needs to prepare for her long-awaited day gives her the privacy, preparation, and peace of mind to breathe before making her entrance. Grooms are given their space with comfy chairs and a TV to calm their nerves before embarking on their greatest adventure!

Ackerman provides many options in the wedding plans. Clients can either request an all inclusive plan that provides the catering, the bakery, decor, flowers, and DJ’s, or the luxury barn can be rented for the occasion and a preferred list of venues will be provided to assist clients in their independent decision making.

Seneca Lake Venue is easy to find right off Gladys Road where a large stone marks the place, Seneca Lake. A stone that Ackerman’s son Dustin saw in the creek on the property when he first purchased it 12 years ago. It was Dustin’s idea to make that stone the sign for Seneca Lake Venue. Then man by man, tractor by tractor, managed to move that beloved stone to the perfect spot, just before the entrance.

You see the words painted on Dustin’s treasure in the creek - Seneca Lake. Turning left a few yards from the stone is the graveled road leading to the awaited wedding, your wedding!

As you approach the barn to the right is an ample parking lot where your friends and family will park and be shuttled a short distance to the barn. Ackerman leaves no stone unturned in preparing for your comfort and convenience. She states, “It has been heartwarming

to hear the appreciation from parents of the bride and groom expressing their thanks for making such beautiful memories for their young adult children.”

The future plans take Ackerman’s breath away as she describes the vision of farm to table dinners catered with the meats and vegetables from local farms coming together to provide feasts for the community right here under the stars, sprawling picnics on the grass or at the long tables served family style, listening to a live band.

Ackerman affirms her mission as “Sharing the beauty of this farm. Bringing together the community, providing reasons to get together.”

In addition to weddings Seneca Lake Venue offers:

• Family Reunions

• Graduation Parties

• Baby Showers

• Retirement Parties

• Birthday Parties

• High School Proms

Any event you can imagine can be custom created by Rochelle Ackerman whose heart and soul are in your best interest, and whose 20 years of business experience working with the people in Virginia gives her the precise abilities you need to handle every detail of your event. •

SENECA LAKE VENUE

3453 Gladys Road, Gladys, VA (434) 610-3639

www.senecalakevenue.com

eneca ake enue is located in the scenic community of ladys, irginia. ewly constructed in , our spacious barn provides endless charm and features to host a memorable wedding or special event. estled between acres of pines and pasture, eneca ake is the ideal blend of charm and modern convenience.

www.senecalakevenue.com

Spacious seating provides the ideal place for enjoying meals or refreshments on that special day.

Brides and their parties are treated like royalty at Seneca Lake Venue. It will be a day you’ll never forget. This exquisite vintage wedding dress patiently waits for its new owner to slide into it for the trip down the aisle.

Who

STORY BY DEBRA FERRELL

Who pays for what?

Whether it’s a lavish wedding costing thousands or the modest backyard variety, there’s no getting around it, it takes money to get married for a day you’ll remember forever. Setting a wedding budget is one of the most important parts of planning. Decided how much you’re spending and what your priorities are. Budget accordingly and stick with it!

Nowadays, there are actually lots of ways to divide things up. Many couples pay for their own wedding themselves. Some families split things up more equally, or perhaps one family contributes and another does not.

Traditionally, the bride and her family are responsible for paying for all wedding planning expenses: the bride’s attire, all floral arrangements,transportation on the wedding day, photo and video fees, travel and lodgings for the pastor if he comes from out of town, lodging for the bridesmaids (if you have offered to help with this expense), and all the expenses of the reception. The bride personally pays for the wedding flowers andgifts for her attendants,the groom’s ring, anda present for him.

However today, most people believethe couple should payfor their own wedding—especially if they havelived on their ownfor a while. Of course, parents and other relatives often want to pitch in.

Who Pays for the Engagement Party?

Normally, the bride’s parents or a family member willpay for and throw an engagement party for their daughter and her husband-to-be. This is generally to welcome him to their family and introduce themselves to his family and friends. Although this isn’t a requirement, it can be a perfect way to get future wedding guests together to establish a healthy relationship early on.

Who Pays for the Engagement Announcements?

The parents of the bride are responsible for sending (and paying for) theengagement announcements to the local newspapers. If the groom is from another town, or his parents live outside the local paper’s distribution area, it is recommended for the bride’s parents to find out if the groom’s family would like the announcement in their hometown paper as well. It used to be common to mail high quality stationary announcements, but that is up to the individual. Using social media to make announcements is more of a modern way of doing things today.

What Does the Groom’s Family Pay For, Traditionally?

The groom’s family is responsible for corsages and boutonnieres for immediate members of both

families, the lodging of the groom’s attendants, and sometimes the costs of the rehearsal dinner. The groom is traditionally expected to pay for the marriage license and pastor’s fees, and buy the bouquet for the bride, as well asher engagement and wedding ringsand a gift; he should also buyboutonnieresandgifts for his groomsmen.

Who Pays for the Rehearsal Dinner?

The groom’s parents traditionally organize (and pay for) the rehearsal dinner. This can range in size from a small occasion for members of the wedding party to a huge event, but they should never be expected to pay for a larger event than they are comfortable with.

What Else Should the Groom’s Family Pay For?

Sometimes, the groom’s family offsets reception expenses by purchasing the alcohol; in others, the groom’s family pays for all the floral expenses.

Who Pays for a Wedding Dress?

A bride’s family usually pays for her wedding dress (and related accessories!), though a bride may prefer to pay herself.

Who Pays for a Groom’s Attire?

The groom, often in conjunction with his family, will traditionally pay for his own attire.

Who Pays for the Bridesmaid Dresses?

In most cases, the bridesmaids pay for their own dresses, which are chosen as a joint effort between a bride and her attendants.

Who Pays for the Groomsman Attire?

Similar to bridesmaid dresses, the groomsmen are expected to pay for their own attire—whether purchased or rented. Sometimes, the groom will cover these expenses for his groomsmen, but this is not common.

Who Pays for the Flower Girl Dresses and Ring Bearer Attire?

The parents of your smallest attendants will pay for their children’s attire. The flower girl dresses and ring bearer outfits are typically selected by both the children’s parents and the couple.

Who Pays for the Honeymoon?

In our parents’ and grandparents’ generations, the groom’s family paid for the honeymoon, but nowadays, many couples are choosing to take on any honeymoon expenses themselves.

Again, this list of who pays for the wedding is based on traditional roles, and nowadays, it’s rare for anyone to follow it exactly. All couples are advised

to have an open and honest discussion with family members about their roles in the wedding budget before starting the vendor selection process.

Who Pays for what in a Wedding in today’s world?

In today’s world, LGBTQIA+ couples don’t divide along gender lines, so couples and their families need to make their own budget plan (61 percent of LGBTQIA+ couples pay for a majority of their wedding, but are receiving financial help from friends and family more than in years past). But in the end, it’s really up to you to decide what works best for you and your families. LGBTQIA+ couples typically pay for 61% of wedding expenses themselves, while their parents pay for 37%.

According to a study in WeddingWire and Grow by Acorns + CNBC, 72% of all couples are receiving at least some financial support when paying for their wedding. For those couples, the parents of those who self-identify as female in a heterosexual relationship are the primary contributors (93%).

Younger millennial couples (those born between 1981 and 1996) pay for less—42% of the wedding expenses, while parents pay for 56%. On the other hand, Gen X couples (those born between 1965 and 1980) pay for 78% of wedding expenses, while parents only pay for 20%.

If it’s a couple’s second wedding, they’ll most likely foot the bill themselves, paying for 88% of wedding expenses, while their parents chip in for 10%. •

WAYS TO SAVE ON YOUR WEDDING

During the planning process, always be looking for ways to save. Some are obvious, while others are ways to save that couples don’t always consider. Think about these suggestions when making a wedding budget.

1. THE GUEST LIST

Get strict with the guest list. It’s not always easy but fewer dinner entrees mean keeping more money in your pocket. Getting strict with the guest list will help keep costs down.

2. THE BRIDAL PARTY.

Trim your bridal party. Each person standing up in your bridal party is a dear friend – and an expense. While you may not be paying for their outfits, you will purchase their flowers, attendant gift, transportation and more. Consider limiting your bridal party to siblings and closest friends.

3. CEREMONY & RECEPTION AT ONE LOCATION.

There are multiple benefits of combining your ceremony and reception location. In addition to the convenience, you can reduce the cost of multiple venues, transportation and decor. Again, simplifying equals savings.

4. PERSONALIZE THE VENUE.

Load the wedding reception up with photos from your engagement session, mementos from your relationship and wedding pictures of your parents and members of bridal party. It tells your story and saves money!

5. RE-PURPOSED DECORATIONS.

Get double duty decorations such as re-purposing the flowers from your ceremony for your wedding reception. Altar arrangements are perfect to flank the head table. Bridesmaids’ bouquets double as centerpieces for the bridal table when placed in a simple glass vase.

6. BUNDLE SERVICES.

It can be a huge saving to bundle multiple services with a single company. Simplify where you can! Select centerpieces, flowers and ceremony decorations with one florist. Invitations, wedding programs, and personalized stationery with one printer may save money. Get your wedding DJ, photography and videography team at one place.

Make use of thrifted frames and decorations to give your wedding a cool, unique rustic vibe.

Re-purpose light bulbs as floral decor for your wedding ceremony.

7. ‘IN SEASON’ MEANS ‘IN BUDGET.’

Choosing flowers that are in season can result in major savings. Ask your florist for recommendations using less costly blooms for your time of year. If you want something out of season, ask to use them as accent flowers rather than the primary.

8. DOWNSIZE.

Selecting smaller centerpieces allows your guests to talk more easily and pass food items around the table –14 to 20 inches high is ideal. Limit cocktail time. If your timeline allows you to shorten the cocktail hour without negatively affecting your guests, you may be able to negotiate a lower price due to the decreased volume. You can also limit the cocktail offerings to a signature drink, requiring fewer liquors.

9. BUDGET FRIENDLY CHILDREN’S DINNER.

Kids at receptions. If you choose to invite children to your wedding reception, consider asking for budget friendly children’s dinner options such as chicken fingers or sliders.

10. SKIP THE TOKENS IF POSSIBLE.

Small tokens of appreciation for attending your wedding can add up to big budget busters so skip it if possible.

Downsizing on centerpieces are a great way to keep your reception minimal yet stylish.

If you have the space and the vision, consider having your wedding or reception in your backyard!

Candles are perfect for setting the mood in an inexpensive way.

11.

MAKE IT TWINKLE.

Candles create a sense of romance and can be a beautiful and inexpensive way to make a statement.

12. WEEKDAY

WEDDING.

Candles create a sense of romance and can be a beautiful and inexpensive way to make a statement.

13. SIMPLY YOUR WEDDING CAKE.

Order a small one or two-tiered cake. Supplement the cake with a larger sheet cake

14. BACKYARD WEDDING.

Forget about renting a wedding venue if you’re on a tight budget. A simple wedding in your backyard or local church or park can be super special. •

GOWN SILHOUETTE STYLES

WEDDING PARTY 101 The Silhouette Guide

WHETHER IT’S FINDING YOUR PERFECT DRESS OR COORDINATING YOUR WEDDING PARTY’S LOOK, WE GOT YOU!

EMPIRE-WAIST

A great selection for pear-shaped brides, the empire waist helps hide hips with a skirt that runs from the bustline down.

A-LINE GOWN

This is one of those styles that is flattering for nearly every body style. The gown stays tight to the torso area and extends down in an A-shape.

TRUMPET GOWN

This style of skirt begins below the hips and is named for its resemblance to the bell of a trumpet. This will suit curvier brides looking for a formfitting dress.

BALL GOWN

The ball gown is fitted up top and billows out dramatically in the skirt area. This style especially suits buxom brides as it presents balance.

OLD, NEW, BORROWED AND BLUE: A FRESH TAKE ON THE LONG-HELD CUSTOM

MERMAID GOWN

A great silhouette for showing off curves, this style flares out closer to the knee but will fit snugly in the upper area.

SHEATH

This silhouette will stay tight to the entire body and would be ideal for smaller weddings with a more casual vibe.

You’ve probably heard the 19th century bridal rhyme: “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in her shoe.” Are you thinking about incorporating the associated traditions into your wedding but want to do so in a modern way? Here are some fresh ideas.

SOMETHING OLD

• Create a display of vintage photos of loved ones

• Incorporate an heirloom into your hairdo

• Create a broach bouquet from vintage broaches and jewelry to carry instead of flowers

2023-2024

SOMETHING NEW

• Find some cheeky lingerie to wear under your dress

• If you’re not the type to wear jewelry, have rings tattooed on your fingers

• Have a custom perfume blended just for your special day

WEDDING BELLES

SOMETHING BORROWED

• Rent a designer gown instead of buying a dress you’ll only wear once

• Borrow your parents’ wedding song for your first dance

• If a married friend has a similar style to you, ask to borrow her veil

SOMETHING BLUE

• Forget a French manicure and paint your nails bold blue

• Wrap your bouquet with a blue handkerchief or ribbon

• If you’re wearing a ball gown, add a layer of blue tulle

WHERE TO BUY:

INDEPENDENTLY-OWNED BRIDAL STORES

The place to see and engage with a lot of dresses at any budget range. Typically, these stores have stylists that can help guide you through the decision making process.

COUTURE BRIDAL SALONS

For a more personalized experience that will allow you to see a highly-specialized collection of high-end designer dresses up close.

DEPARTMENT + CLOTHING STORES

National department stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdales will all have a nice selection of suits and dresses for sale, and you can definitely find deals at stores like these.

DISCOUNT OUTLETS

If you’re really looking to save some money –or perhaps you’re in a bit of a hurry – discount outlets are a great place to find, well, discounts on suits and dresses.

PRE-OWNED + RENTED

For many bridal parties, pre-owned dresses are a really great way to wear a high-end dress without breaking the bank. Or, try renting a dress from various online outlets like Rent The Runway

SWEETHEART NECKLINE

The “sweetheart” neckline derives its name from the heart-shaped look of the torso area of the dress and flatters curvier women.

SCOOP NECKLINE

A scoop neckline indicates a dress that’s cut down into the chest area. How far it goes is up to you, but this is a dress than can be universally flattering for different body types.

ONE-SHOULDER NECKLINE

This is the most unique of all neckline styles and can make a loud statement. The look is best suited for women with narrow shoulders and thin arms.

SHAWL LAPEL

The shawl lapel is said to have its origins on the Victorian smoking jacket, and is characterized by a continuous curve. This is a very elegant and smooth look that works well on full tuxedos.

NOTCHED LAPEL

This is the most common of lapel styles. This is a very basic style making it a great option for the groomsmen. It’s approachable, easy to like, but it’s not going to catch anyone’s eye.

PEAKED LAPEL

A peaked lapel – also sometimes called a pointed lapel – is often considered the most distinct of lapel styles. This style is sure to stand out and would make the perfect option for the groom.

FLOWER GIRLS & RING BEARERS

When it comes to the cutest, youngest members of the wedding party, it’s still important that the flower girls and ring bearer be coordinated with the overall color scheme and theme of the wedding. Many opt for the flower girl’s dress having aspects in common with the bride’s gown. For example, if the bridal dress has lace or a full skirt, the flower girl’s dress might include those features. You might also consider having the flower girl’s dress match the bridesmaids’ dresses.

With the ring bearer, keep the same things in mind. A tiny little tux is cute, but should still match what the groom and/or groomsmen are wearing. •

Something Old, Something New, , Something Borrowed, Something Blue

And how to incorporate the longstanding tradition into your own wedding.

Brides have long been incorporating the tradition of “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue” into their weddings. It is said to be good luck if a bride features something in their bridal attire that connects to each of the four customs.

However, some brides and brides-to-be may not be aware of where the tradition comes from in the first place—and whether or not it’s something worth doing. After all, it’s just a superstition… right?

According to Reader’s Digest, “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue” comes from the Victorian Era. The mantra’s first known documented reference was in an 1871 issue of St. James Magazine and included the fifth and oft-forgotten line “and a sixpence in your shoe.”

According to Reader’s Digest, the idea was that incorporating something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue (and, well, a sixpence in your shoe) would “ensure healthy fertility for the bride, which could have been cursed by the Evil Eye, or the malicious eye of the bride’s former suitors.”

While that may feel a bit old-fashioned when compared to some modern wedding day customs, the tradition has been modernized to be a fun way to symbolize certain aspects of the bride, her history, and her future.

SOMETHING OLD

“Something Old” is said to be an item commemorating the bride’s past, or family heritage. It’s an item that serves to connect the bride to her past. It could be a pair of earrings, an old family ring, or even a vintage gown.

In practice: Brides looking to honor this tradition can think outside of the box, too. Some arrive for their walk down the aisle in their father’s vintage sports car, or wear a pair of shoes that belong to an older relative.

SOMETHING NEW

“Something New” is meant to symbolize the bride’s future and the journey she is about to embark upon. While it may mean different things to different brides, the “Something New” can be thought of as a way to

symbolize the hope and promise of the bride’s new life with her spouse.

In Practice: Because a lot of things at your wedding will presumably be new, this may be the easiest of the four to fulfill. Any new piece of clothing—including a dress, shoes, a veil—can be a great way to showcase something new. The wedding rings themselves might achieve the task just fine. For brides looking to do something a little different, some may consider burying a time capsule, to be opened when a future child is getting married, perhaps.

SOMETHING BORROWED

The old tradition suggests the bride would borrow undergarments from a happily married bride who had already given birth—“Something Borrowed”—

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue is a traditional rhyme for a bride on what items to include on their wedding day for good luck. Anna-Catherine Lundsford photographed several items that she used in her wedding. The old is symbolized by her wedding ring, right, which once belonged to her husband’s grandmother. Something new is her husband’s wedding band, left, and the earrings. Something blue is symbolized by the shoes, and borrowed is a blue handkerchief from Lundsford’s husband’s great aunt. Something old symbolizes protection for the baby to come, and the new item is for future optimism. A borrowed item from another couple serves as good luck and blue is for purity and fidelity. It is thought to date back to the late 1800s. Submitted by Anna-Catherine Lunsford.

once again a nod to fertility. Understandably, that may not be all that palatable to most modern brides, who may instead choose to think of “Something Borrowed” as an item belonging to somebody else that brings them luck during their big day.

In practice: This is a great case for the bride renting part of her wardrobe—be it the veil, a handbag or clutch, or even the dress itself. Similar to the “something old” tradition, brides may consider borrowing a pair of earrings, or other jewelry, from a family member.

SOMETHING BLUE

“Something Blue” has historically represented fidelity and loyalty. The idea was that brides would wear a blue garter to symbolize she was faithful to her new husband. These days, brides can play on

this tradition in a number of different ways. All it really takes is wearing something blue—and no, it does not have to be an undergarment.

In practice: Many brides opt for blue jewelry, blue flowers in their bouquet, or simply incorporate blue decor into the wedding scenery. Others let the groom or groomsmen wear something blue in order to further modernize a longstanding tradition.

In conclusion, “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue” can be a fun way to incorporate a longstanding tradition into your wedding. And remember, they are simply parameters in which to innovate—there’s no need to wear a blue garter to pledge your fidelity to your partner. This is just another way brides can personalize their wedding and make it unique and memorable. •

Photo by Laura Mae Photography.

2023-2024

Bridal Trends

LACE NECKLINES

Highlight your neckline with this showstopping style.

DROP WAIST SILHOUETTES

This style is making a comeback and the go-to silhouette for any type of wedding.

ONESHOULDER

This style is equally edgy and unique while while still remaining timeless for years to come.

GO GOLD

Perfect for those wanting to take their gown to the next level – this will most definitely make jaws drop!

© CLAIRE PETTIBONE

©COSTARELLOS

©SILVIA TCHERASSI

©VIKTOR & ROLF

Bridal “trends” are ever-changing and unpredictable. This year is about going against the grain and choosing a silhouette that expresses your taste and your style. To help you feel well versed in how to discuss what you like we have put together a list of the top 2023-2024. That way you have the visual and vocabulary for what you are looking for before entering that bridal boutique or online website.

SCULPTURAL LAYERS

This style is not only a chic, classic style but will make you feel as if you are a walking piece of art.

FEATHER

ACCENTS

This sleek and modern style is perfect for the bride who wants to add a playful touch to their traditional wedding look.

Feminine, flirty and fun. The perfect dress for that easygoing bride.

GLOVES

Available in a variety of fabrics, styles and hues, this is a great way to elevate your wedding outfit.

THE MIDI DRESS

©REBECCA VALLANCE

© BY WATTERS

©TONI MATICEVSKI

STORY BY DIANA MCFARLAND

SUTHERLIN BARN

At the Sutherlin Barn it is possible to have an outdoor wedding — even in the rain.

Austin and Holly White had planned to have their ceremony outside on the grounds of the Sutherlin Barn — but learned the day before that it was definitely going to rain on their wedding day.

Fortunately, owner Billy Milam had recently added an open, but covered, outdoor shelter that was large enough to accommodate the wedding party as well as their roughly 220 guests, and still provide views of the fields, forest and cows during the ceremony.

Holly said she was a little upset about the weather, but since it was still technically outside, it worked.

“They could hear the rain on the tin roof, and it added a different aspect to the ceremony,” said Holly’s mother Heather McDowell.

“Everyone stayed dry,” she said.

The Sutherlin Barn, located at 10064 Melon Road in Sutherlin, is set on what used to be the Milam’s dairy, cattle and tobacco farm. It is known for its rural setting and rustic, homey atmosphere. The old homestead is gone, but parts of it live on at the event venue, such as the front door, through which brides can use as part of the procession.

“People tell me how relaxed they are there, that it feels like home to them,” said Milam of his venue that not only hosts weddings, but events ranging from baby showers, civic group meetings and prom parties.

Chandler and Blair Payne were married at the Sutherlin Barn in September 2022.

Chandler liked the rustic, comfortable accommodations as well as its size.

Photos taken for Jonathan and Morgen Ellis’ wedding courtesy of Branch and Vine Photography.

She especially loved the rural setting with its open fields and trees — and no houses in the background — which made for good photographs.

Milam and his family put in a great deal of thought and care when it came to building the barn, adding details from the former homestead, such as handhewn columns in the main reception area, former tobacco sticks as wainscoting, wood repurposed from the farm and locally crafted wrought iron railings.

The facility has a large, open reception area with enough seating for 220 people and a gas fireplace for a cozy atmosphere. There are church pews, benches and picnic tables for a country feel, as well as plenty of tables and chairs.

Sutherlin Barn has a roomy catering kitchen with ample refrigerator space, a warming oven and two ranges. There is an air-conditioned changing room with a private bathroom and shower for the bride and another room for the bridesmaids, as well a room for the groom and his best men to prepare. Milam is also working on building a golf course next to the barn to give the guys something to do as the bride and her entourage makes their preparations.

The covered outdoor pavilion is as large as the indoor space, with a heated seating area and room to stretch out. A set of enormous barn doors divide the indoor and outdoor spaces, that when opened offer twice the area. There is room for a DJ or a band and a dance floor, as well as other areas for guests to mingle, such as an upstairs balcony.

Milam said Sutherlin Barn began as a personal and farm shop, but as folks started saying they needed space for various events, it eventually morphed into what it is today.

Sutherlin Barn hosts about 10 weddings a year and Milam advises couples to book their day a year in advance as it has become popular venue due to its rural location.

As they planned their wedding, McDowell appreciated Milam’s flexibility and quick response to concerns. She liked that the Sutherlin Barn is not rigid or structured, making for a far more relaxed atmosphere.

“It’s just a beautiful place, both inside and out,” she said.

The family obviously likes the Sutherlin Barn — not only did Holly have her bridal shower and wedding there, she also held her baby shower there in June as the couple is expecting their first child.

If it rains during the baby shower, we’ll be set, joked McDowell. •

2023-2024 WEDDING BELLES

Photos taken for Chandler and Blair Payne’s wedding courtesy of Laurel Lane Photography.

2023-2024 WEDDING BELLES

4

UNIQUE WEDDING FAVOR IDEAS

Wedding favors have changed - and in many cases for the better. Favors have evolved from the inexpensive trinkets purchased in bulk into more personalized mementos that guests can cherish.

Today’s couples are interested in customizing their weddings and offering guests something meaningful, or at the very least, edible, so that favors don’t immediately get relegated to the trash can. According to Heather Jones of Wente Vineyards in California, favors have moved from “goodie bags” toward items that are experimental and fun. Wedding planners from across the country offer these wedding favor trends that couples may want to incorporate into their own celebrations.

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No. 1 Welcome bags

Rather than take-home bags, welcome bags have replaced the traditional favor trinket at some weddings. Many weddings have become multi-day events that ask guests traveling from out of town to attend a wedding weekend. To help greet them and make their experience memorable, couples may fill a gift bag with items guests can use or enjoy during their stay - like a bottle of locally sourced maple syrup or some handmade soaps from a nearby shopkeeper.

free drink on us at our favorite local bar!

No. 2

Experience gifts

Instead of a candle or a monogrammed cake server, think of experiences to offer guests. A coupon for free drinks at a nearby brewery, a tour of a local attraction while guests are in town or a group excursion for guests attending a destination wedding can be fun and will help guests create lasting memories.

No. 3 Charitable donations

Some couples feel that favors are wasteful and would rather set aside a portion of their wedding budgets toward giving back. In such situations, a donation to charity in guests’ names can be the way to go. Guests can vote on two favorite charities advertised on a special table at the wedding reception. The one with the most votes will get the proceeds.

No. 4 Late-night snacks

After a night of celebrating, some guests may want the festivities to continue, but may need some extra sustenance to make it through a few more hours. Some couples are eschewing traditional favors in lieu of making room for extra food or beverage expenses that can include after-party treats. These may run the gamut from wood-fired pizzas to food truck vendors to extra desserts. A tasty take-home option also may be given, such as fresh zeppolis or beignets, or even a personalized bottle of wine. Even if the food and drink is not consumed right away, there’s a good chance it will hit the spot when guests return to their hotel rooms.

Wedding favors are changing to keep up with the times and keep guests feeling extra special. •

THE CALLAHAN’S: McWarren Farms in South Hill

WEDDING BELLES: Where did your wedding take place? THE CALLAHAN’S: “McWarren Farm in South Hill, Va.”

WB: What date did your wedding take place and how long did it take to plan your wedding?

C: “We were married on June 3, 2017. We were engaged for 23 months before the ceremony, but it only took about 12 months to plan.”

WB: How did you go about choosing your venue?

C: “The McWarren Farm is next door to my husband’s family farm. The main goal was to be able to incorporate tractors from our farm and certain views that mean a lot to us.”

WB: Did you use a catering service?

C: “Yes. It just seemed easier that way. We went with Pork-N-More owned by Lee Brankley.”

WB: Did you use a professional photographer?

C: “I used Kelly Wells Photography for everything that had to do with our wedding. We took engagement photos around the farm, bridal portraits at MacCallum More Museum and Gardens in Chase City, and she photographed the ceremony and wedding party.”

WB: How did you and your husband meet?

C: “Jarrett and I met through my twin sisters when

INTERVIEW CONDUCTED & WRITTEN BY JAMI SNEAD PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KELLY WELLS PHOTOGRAPHY OF SOUTH HILL

Jarrett and Holly Callahan, pictured at left, married on McWarren Farm in South Hill in June of 2017.

The cake for the Callahan wedding, shown above, was made by Candi Adcock. Pictured on the opposite page, members of the wedding party are photographed on hay bales at McWarren Farm in South Hill. Jarrett and Holly stand at the top of the “cake”.

be stressed my first year of teaching. We also knew we wanted a June wedding and I got anxiety about thinking I only had 11 months to plan. Looking back, I was so excited to plan that I got it done all in that first year of being engaged and we could have gotten married a year sooner.”

WB: How did you go about choosing which professional services to use?

C: “We talked to other friends that had recently got married and shopped around. We shopped around to find the best prices and vendors that could meet our needs and that were available on our chosen date. This was the easy part since we had a two year engagement and most vendors were available in our early planning process.”

WB: Tell me about the wedding day and everything leading up to the moment.

I was in 7th grade and he was in 8th. He still gives me a hard time about turning him down at a local middle school dance fundraiser because I was not interested in a “Park View” guy, I was a Bluestone girl. We reconnected later during our junior and senior years in high school and started dating the day he graduated from high school. We kept dating while we both attended Longwood University and got engaged after graduation. He proposed in Boston at a Red Sox game.”

WB: What was the wedding planning process like?

C: “It was very relaxed since we had so much time to plan and didn’t feel rushed or stressed. It also gave us a good amount of time to find vendors that were a perfect fit for us. I knew I didn’t want to rush anything because we got engaged two months after I graduated college, and I did not want to plan a wedding and

C: “Some bridesmaids spent the night with me at our house the night before after we had the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner at Brian’s Steakhouse. We got up and started our day with The Donut Shop. The girls and I went to the venue and got last minute things set up and flowers and decorations set up. We got ready at my house since it was next door to the venue. My hairstylist, Payton Gwaltney, came to our home and started to get us all dolled up. We had the groom’s cousin, Jami Snead, do our makeup. We enjoyed a relaxing morning with snacks and drinks and did not feel rushed at all. Kelly Wells came and took photos of the girls getting ready once she had been by to see the guys and get pictures of them getting ready too. Once we were all ready, we went next door to the venue and took bridal party photos, but no bride and groom photos. The girls rode in from our house to the venue on a wagon pulled by a tractor. I rode in on a separate tractor, both driven by close family friends. Jarrett and I did not see each other or do any photos before the ceremony. It was such a special moment for him to see me when I stepped out of the tractor and walked through the old doors down the aisle. During the ceremony we had a live singer, Ethan Reid, and also our DJ, Lucas Lenhart, played music. We had the preacher from our church officiate the ceremony. We worked with him to develop the perfect vows.”

WB: Would you recommend any of the services you used to other couples planning their wedding?

C: “I highly recommend all of the services that we used. Florals were by The Avenue Florist and Designs. Men’s attire was from Gavin’s House of Flowers. Bridesmaids dresses were from David’s Bridal. Bridal gown was from Celebration Bridal. Cake was made by Candi Adcock and cupcakes by Jessie Snead. Rings from Harpers Jewelry. •

Maid of Honor & The Best Man:

THERE TO HELP THE HAPPY COUPLE

The maid of honor and best man are fixtures at most weddings no matter how large or small, oftentimes standing by the bride and groom on their special day.

If you have been selected as maid of honor or best man, you likely feel quite honored. These meaningful roles are filled by individuals with whom couples share a strong and unique bond.

However, if you are like most people, you might wonder what the maid of honor and best man are supposed to do in the weeks and months leading up to the wedding and during the ceremony itself.

How do you find out? If you know someone who has been a maid of honor or best man at a wedding, you can ask them. There are several other resources you can search, including books, magazines and other publications that focus on weddings. In addition, there are online resources that outline these important responsibilities in a way that can be conveniently accessed.

As you read, you will see the primary role of the maid of honor and best man described as supporting the bride and groom during the wedding preparations and the ceremony. That doesn’t sound too complicated. You would be happy to help your friend prepare for one of the most special days of his or her life and do what you can to provide assistance on the day itself.

Among wedding traditions, the maid of honor and best man have duties that are specific to their roles. Talking to someone who has filled one of these roles before or reading publications related to weddings should reassure you that you can be a wonderful maid of honor or best man.*

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MAID OF HONOR

SUPPORT

•Accompanies the bride to offer support and encouragement while shopping for her wedding dress and also accompanies her to dress fittings.

• Goes with the bride to select the bridesmaids’ dresses. The bride will often call on the maid of honor to schedule fittings and make sure that the bridesmaids receive their dresses in a timely manner.

•Assists the bride with specific tasks as needed, such as addressing envelopes. This might seem like a minor detail, but letting the bride know that you are there for her will relieve much of the stress associated with wedding preparations.

PLANNING

•The maid of honor provides support and assistance as needed as the bride makes plans for the wedding. This can include everything from lending a listening ear to working with the bride

to select flowers or the menu for the reception.

•Plans the bridal shower and bachelorette party. The maid of honor selects the venue for these special events and makes reservations. She may choose to take care of other preparations — such as the guest list, invitations, food and decorations — herself or with the help of the bridesmaids.

THE SPECIAL DAY

•Makes sure that the bride stays relaxed and avoids stress before the wedding ceremony, helps the bride dress and takes care of other things that she might need so that everything runs smoothly.

•Arranges the bride’s train before she walks down the aisle and holds the bride’s bouquet during the vows.

•Gives a toast or speech during the reception.

THE BEST MAN

SUPPORT

•Helps, or lends a listening ear, when needed during the planning process for the wedding.

•Accompanies the groom to select formalwear for himself and the groomsmen. The best man also schedules fittings and helps to organize the accessories that the groomsmen will need with their tuxedos.

PLANNING

•Plans and arranges the bachelor party. This might be the most obvious of the best man’s responsibilities. The best man will select an activity that he knows the groom will enjoy, such as a round of golf or evening out, select the location and make reservations. He may choose to handle other preparations — such as guest list and food —himself or with the help of the other groomsmen.

THE SPECIAL DAY

•Makes sure that the groom stays relaxed and avoids stress before the ceremony. The best man helps the groom and groomsmen with their wedding attire, from adjusting ties to making sure that all groomsmen have their boutonnieres.

•Holds onto the wedding rings until they are exchanged during the ceremony. In many cases, he will also greet guests as they arrive.

•Ensures that things are going smoothly at the wedding reception, spends time with guests, and accepts gifts for the bride and groom, taking them to the appropriate place.

•Gives the first toast or speech at the reception.

•Drives or arranges transportation for the bride and groom to their hotel or the airport as they begin their honeymoon.

STORY BY KATIE WRIGHT THOMAS PHOTOS COURTESY OF KATIE DID FLORALS

Choosing the Perfect Floral Designer

Flowers are my way of bringing joy into the world and I am honored to share their beauty and grace with my couples! Every aspect of your wedding is important but nothing packs quite the visual punch as a well-executed floral design created by an experienced floral designer. So how do you choose a floral designer that will bring your vision to life?

After working with many couples over the years here are a few tips and tricks that will make your initial conversation with any floral designer go smoothly.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FLORIST AND EVENT FLORAL DESIGNER

An event or wedding floral designer will curate a one-of-a-kind top to bottom design that encapsulates the vibe and personality of your wedding day or event. Event florists have specific knowledge about mechanics, types of blooms that have longevity, staffing, and how to work with a vendor team. That stunning floral ceremony backdrop you have been dreaming of requires special design and logistical

skills that an event floral designers possess.

A florist is typically offering daily arrangements. If you need a few elements that can be picked up ahead of time like a small number of table arrangements, bouquets, and boutonnieres then a florist located in your local brick and mortar shop can probably help. But if you want a ceremony floral installation, elevated arrangements, unique floral details and even cake flowers seek out a wedding floral designer. An experienced wedding floral designer should be doing anywhere from 35-100 weddings a year.

AESTHETICS MATTER

Floral Designers are creatives and artists at heart. Instead of paint or pencil our medium is living blooms! Like all artists most floral designers have a specific aesthetic and floral elements that they enjoy working with because of their shape, color, and style. If you love ethereal loose and organic designs, then don’t hire a floral designer with an Instagram

page full of tight traditional designs. One type of design is not better than the other but instead an artistic approach. Very much how a Picasso is not like a Monet. If your hire a floral designer that doesn’t fit your aesthetic both parties will probably be disappointed with the result.

TALK ABOUT YOUR BUDGET

Finding a floral vendor that aligns with your budgetary goals is a huge part of your decision. Budgets for weddings can vary widely and will depend on guest count, number of designs and the seasonality and availability of blooms. A good place to start for florals is 15% of your overall budget. If you’re after an especially lush look or statement designs (like an over-the-top ceremony piece) then you will want to plan for 20% to 25% of your budget. Every wedding is different and most floral designers create custom proposals for every couple. It is nearly impossible for a designer to put a blanket price on their services. However, if you share your budget,

guest count and any must haves an experienced designer will be able to give you a clear estimate of what they will be able to deliver with the funds available. A floral designer who knows their value will be very honest and confident when discussing pricing and budgets. If you can’t get an estimate from your designer, then it is best to move on. Either you are going to end up with an uncomfortable bill or a design that is less than expected.

DON’T RELY ON AN INSTAGRAM GRID

Finding a floral designer that you like on Instagram is a great place to start. But it is important to dig a little deeper. Instagram is a very curated picture of an individual’s work. If you see an inspirational picture of bouquet or a ceremony backdrop that you love, ask to see other images from the overall design of that wedding. It is important to look deeper than one amazing bouquet and see how your potential floral designer puts a whole vision together.

Brynn Gross Photography

Ocean and Ridge Photography

Jessi Lancaster Photography

ASK FOR TERMS OF SERVICE AND INSURANCE

Most floral designers love what they do and are happy to answer questions or share their terms of service. “Terms of service” are usually in a florist’s contract and cover everything from what happens in case of inclement weather to travel expenses. Experienced floral designers will have these details thought and written out for your review. This may seem obvious but ask about insurance. Never hire a floral designer that can’t prove they are insured. This puts the floral designer, your venue and you at risk if someone gets injured. Most venues also require proof of insurance for all your vendors, so it is good to ask this question of every vendor you hire for your wedding.

EXPERIENCE

There is no substitute for experience. There is always the potential for a few hiccups along the way with every wedding and an experienced floral designer will know how to respond. The goal for every designer should be to provide a seamless floral planning process and curate an artful and joyful design for what is one of the most momentous days of your life! •

Silver and Chaulk Photography

Katie Wright Thomas is the owner of KatieDid Florals and the HW Brown Greenhouse located in the Historic Old West End of Danville, VA. She is a Master Floral Designer and Event Planner that has studied with some of the nation’s leading florists. She is known for her luxurious, whimsical floral design aesthetic and is sought after for her expertise in wedding and event floral design. Katie launched KatieDid Florals in 2017 and has grown her company into a premier event floral design studio that services the surrounding areas of Raleigh, Durham, Greensboro, Richmond and Roanoke.

Photos by Brynn Gross Photography

KATIE WRIGHT THOMAS

Choosing Your Bridal Bouquet

The bridal bouquet you select effectively sets the stage for the rest of your wedding, according to David Dickens. The owner and head florist of Exquisite Creations has designed and prepared wedding flowers for brides all across Florida, North Carolina and Virginia. Recently, he sat down with us to share invaluable tips on how to plan your wedding bridal bouquet gleaned from 20 years of helping numerous happy brides do exactly that.

Wedding Belles: What is the first advice you offer a bride-to-be trying to select just the right bridal bouquet? David/Exquisite Creations: First of all, there are no hard and fast rules, because all brides are different. And as the wedding bouquet is your statement piece, it should capture your unique style - highlight your individuality. Your wedding bouquet is the one thing that will be in most of your wedding photos - like a centerpiece for your special day. So as you select your main color and accent color, which will be unifying elements throughout the day, also keep in the back of your mind any favorite flowers you might want to use, as some flowers are only available in certain colors or during certain seasons.

WB: So you start with choosing the flowers you want to use in your bouquet?

D/EC: You want to keep that in mind, but, again, because your bouquet is your statement piece, you’ll also want to give careful consideration to the type of bouquet you wish to carry, both during the ceremony and for your photos, and there are a great number of options.

I always ask my brides to describe the overall style they envision for wedding – rustic, elegant, glamorous, bohemian, traditional, modern, etc., as well as the venue, because these things also have a bearing on your selections. We talk about specific types of

INTERVIEW CONDUCTED & WRITTEN BY TERRY HARRIS PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID DICKENS

bouquets, like the posy or nosegay, single stem – all sorts of petite or mini bouquets. You might favor a Biedermeier round or hand-tied bouquet small, medium or large size. All of these are popular styles, plus cascading bouquets are making a comeback, and some brides are opting for a hoop or circle bouquet – which is simply a metal or beribboned hoop with flowers attached.

WB: – That’s a lot of options. What other considerations do you recommend?

D/EC: Well, you’ll want to figure in the venue because a boho wildflower bouquet could clash with a formal wedding just as a formal bouquet might look out of place at a barn wedding. And definitely consider the dress you’ll be wearing, as you never want the flowers to overshadow your dress – or you. And this is a delicate thing to bring up, but there’s also the size of the bride to consider. A very petite bride will look lost behind a huge, cascading bouquet. On the other hand, for a bride with a wider waistline, a tiny bouquet can accentuate that feature and an oversized

bouquet also can be unflattering. My best advice is to work with your florist openly and honestly about all of these considerations and let them help you come up with something that will be most flattering and make you look and feel as special as you deserve on your wedding day.

WB: – So once we select a style, then we talk about specific flowers?

D/EC: Yes, and from several perspectives. Sometimes brides bring in photos of bouquets they like, which can be a great help with understanding exactly what the bride envisions as we plan the details, plus it can provide shortcuts in the process. For example, if they love the idea of hydrangeas in a bouquet they’ve seen I can warn them that hydrangeas do not last out of water and by the time you get to the reception they’ll look terrible. Those photos from Etsy, Pinterest, Google, etc. are nearly always staged and retouched; that can make meeting expectations challenging. In any case, you will want to match your flowers to your wedding style. For example, if you are leaning

toward formal or relaxed style that can help you choose between timeless blooms like white calla lilies or more fanciful pink ranunculus.

Fragrance is important to me, so I always mention that as a consideration. So is the possible addition of some more exotic things – like the boho vibe of pampas grass for an outdoor ceremony. Also, generally fall colors – oranges, golds, and burgundies – are as hard to find in the spring as tulips and daffodils in the fall. That figures into budgetary considerations as well, as out of season flowers can add considerable expense.

WB: So your individual flower choices can significantly affect your budget?

D/EC: Absolutely. If you have an unlimited budget you can go all out, like one bride who wanted a 20 foot high cascade of baby’s breath draped to look like a floral wedding veil descending from a tree as a backdrop to make her bouquet pop in the pictures. Besides the cost of all those flowers, it took five people two days – and a boom lift – to put all that together. If money is no object that’s fine, but there are several ways to approach flower choices for a bouquet that is truly special, but more budget friendly.

If a bride wants something super colorful she can

consider mixing in some soft touch silks among the live flowers. They look and feel real, and are often much less expensive. That’s what they do in most of those staged photos, when you see beautiful, bright colors that just don’t occur in nature. With mixing in a few strategically placed silks you get the pop for your pictures and no one will ever know they’re not all real.

Also, it’s a good idea to focus on one or two types of flowers and work with your florist on that. Because if you want one perfect exotic or out of season blossom in the center, but the flower you choose is only available in groups of a dozen, your florist has to purchase twelve flowers at maybe $10 each –wholesale – and it doesn’t take long for your “simple” bouquet to become quite expensive.

WB: – That’s a lot to think about. How would you summarize your best advice?

D/EC: We’ve talked about budget, season, style, location, but the bottom line is this is your day, your bouquet, and your wedding, so your bouquet should match your style, personality, and vision. Look at all the options, work with your florist to make the right choices for you,then let it go and enjoy the process. And know that no matter how hard you try, you cannot control everything. Just work with people you trust to prepare for the things you can control, and remember that at the end of the day the best wedding stories – the things you’ll laugh about with your friends and tell your children and their children – generally revolve around things that didn’t go exactly as planned. And sometimes, those are the things that make your special day even better. •

Baby’s breath bridal veil constructed as a backdrop to accentuate bride and her bouquet.

PERSONALIZING YOUR WEDDING VIA THE BEVERAGE MENU

Most weddings include drinks and for good reason. Beverages can be a great way to get a group of people socializing — especially when they may or may not have met.

The beverage menu at a wedding can also be an area to personalize the event in the image of the bride, groom, or associated parties. For example, many brides and grooms like to have “signature” cocktails named after themselves, their parents, their children, or even their pets.

The drinks themselves can have fun twists that exude the spirit of the happy couple. For example,

including a favorite soda or beer as an option at the bar is great, but some couples have upped the ante by ordering customized beer labels to commemorate the day.

For those wanting to include a cocktail menu, however, there are many things to consider. First and foremost, it matters if the couple plans on hiring an experienced bartender or not. Sometimes a family member or friend may pitch in behind the bar, opening up bottles and cans. If this is the case, pre-mixing cocktails can be a great option.

Two of the following signature cocktails — a Blood Orange

BLOOD ORANGE MARGARITA

Margarita and a Sparkling Sage Gimlet Mocktail — can be mixed and batched out beforehand and served in a waterjug, or a punch bowl, for example. The third cocktail, a Salted Caramel Espresso Martini, requires a bit more expertise and would only be recommended if an experienced bartender is on site.

Remember — there’s no “right” cocktail for your big day, but hopefully these three examples will either be a great fit for your big day, or at least be a jumping off point for some of your own unique ideas.

A Blood Orange Margarita is a nice, bright twist on a classic. Perfect for a spring or summer wedding, the drink requires just four main ingredients that are widely available.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Tequila

• 1 oz Orange Liqueur

• 2 oz Sweet and Sour

• 1 oz Blood Orange Puree

Steps

Combine the ingredients, with ice, in a shaker. Shake. Optional: pour into salt and/or sugar rimmed glass, garnish with lime wedge.

SPARKLING SAGE GIMLET MOCKTAIL

Mocktails are fast becoming a staple at weddings. Not only do they give those who do not drink alcohol something they can order at the bar, but mocktails can be a nice change of pace even for those who do drink. The Sparking Sage Gimlet Mocktail will intrigue most any person.

Ingredients

•2 oz Sparkling Water

•.75 oz fresh lime juice

•.75 oz fresh grapejuice

•.75 oz simple syrup

•3–4 sage leaves

Steps

Add sage leaves, fresh lime juice, fresh grapejuice, simple syrup, and ice to the shaker. Shake. Garnish with an additional sprig of sage.

SALTED CARAMEL ESPRESSO MARTINI

Few drinks are as trendy as the espresso martini right now. Those looking to add an additional twist might consider making it a Salted Caramel Espresso Martini to really put it over the top.

Ingredients

• 1 oz vodka

• 1 oz coffee liqueur

• 2 oz milk

• 1.5 oz espresso

• .5 oz salted caramel syrup

Steps

Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, milk (optional: use non-dairy milk like almond milk), ice, and salted caramel syrup to a shaker. Shake well. Strain into martini cocktail glass. Garnish with coffee beans, and/or sprinkle some cinnamon on top.

SPICY PINEAPPLE ALCOHOL-FREE MARGARITA

Having a destination wedding and want a drink that will satisfy your guests who are alcohol-free? This is the perfect substitute for a spicy margarita.

Ingredients

•1 oz pineapple juice

•1 oz flavored kombucha

•1 oz lime soda water

Steps

•Slice Jalepeno

•Chili salt for the rim

Salt the rim of your margarita glass. Add ice first then continue with pineapple juice, kombucha, soda water and the slice jalepeno. Stir to combine. Enjoy!

BY: JAMI SNEAD

Bridal Beauty Countdown

Every bride dreams of the perfect wedding loaded with beautiful photos and memories. It is probably the most heavily photographed day of a bride’s life and there is a lot of preparation that goes in to making sure you look your absolute best. The key to your perfect day is planning your beauty routine several weeks prior to your wedding day.

3-6 MONTHS PREP

• Schedule a facial for every 4-6 weeks until your wedding day.

• Do your seamstress a favor and try not to focus so much on your fitness routine at this point. The constant fluctuation in size will drive you both crazy.

1-3 MONTHS PREP

• Work on those pearly whites. Start using at-home whitening strips or see a professional. (You may want to schedule the professional visit a little closer to your wedding day.)

• Schedule your first eyelash extension session four weeks prior to your wedding day.

• Start experimenting with your makeup, hairstyle, and spray tan. (It is better to do a practice run when trying a spray tan. That way you can determine which is your perfect shade.)

1 WEEK PREP

• Tame those wild hairs with an eyebrow and bikini wax.

• If the spray tan option does not work for you, begin applying a self tanner gradually.

• Schedule a hair color touch up.

2-DAY

PREP

• If your going to go with the spray tan option, two days prior to your wedding would be the ideal time to touch it up. This way you will have time to wash it off a bit before the wedding.

• Schedule your eyelash fill-in and a gentle facial for that perfect glow.

1-DAY PREP

• Wash your hair one-day prior. Avoid washing your hair the day of your wedding. This will make it easier for your hair stylist to work with on the day of.

• Take the stress away by treating yourself to a gel manicure and pedicure.

WEDDING DAY

• Eat a good breakfast. Start your day with some eggs, berries, and an English muffin.

• Take a relaxing bath to calm your nerves.

• Use a light moisturizing facial mask.