Wedding Belles 2020 | Edition One

location TO REFLECT YOUR STYLE

wedding tips ENGAGEMENT TO HONEYMOON

features STORIES OF TRUE LOVE

$9.99

2020 | EDITION ONE

©WOMACK PUBLISHING

It’s perfect for your

wedding!

5 acres of scenic Smith Mountain Lake real estate.

Our outdoor wedding venue is located on Smith Mountain Lake nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The setting includes a five-acre point surrounded by water with breathtaking views of both the lake and mountains.

Let us make your event memorable!

The Point at

Parkway Marina 16918 Smith Mountain Lake Pkwy, Huddleston, VA 24104 540-297-4412 | www.ParkwayMarina.com

12 reasons to love

Orange County, North Carolina There’s so much to do in the Chapel Hill / Orange County area. Where will you start?

1. Guided Tours

featuring Hillsborough’s history and ghosts Alliance for Historic Hillsborough and Chapel Hill’s Franklin Street and UNC campus are awesome ways to learn about the area.

2. Farmers’ Markets

Winding roads and country scenery lead you to local farms and farm events. Take the April Piedmont Farm Tour. Orange County boasts four farmers’ markets, all open year-round with seasonal events.

3. Franklin Street

Sports Illustrated has called Chapel Hill “the best college town in America,” and Franklin Street— named after Benjamin Franklin—is a big reason why.

4. North Carolina Botanical Garden

The largest botanical garden in the Southeast is known for its nature trails, carnivorous plant collections, aquatics, herb gardens, and revolving exhibits of artwork.

NCBG

5. UNC-Chapel Hill

is the oldest public university in the U.S. (chartered in 1789) and the only public university in the U.S. that awarded degrees in the 18th century.

Take a tour, and wander past the iconic Old Well.

UNC-Chapel Hill

6. Jordan, Worthy, Perkins, Ford

Take a trip down memory lane with all of them—not to mention Dean Smith, Roy Williams, and more—at the free Carolina Basketball Museum.

7. Ackland Art Museum A walk through the Ackland Art Museum on South Columbia Street in Chapel Hill can be an introduction to Peter Paul Rubens, Eugène Delacroix, and Andy Warhol.

10. The ArtsCenter

in Carrboro offers classes in visual, literary, and performing arts, concerts, theater productions, children’s programs, and an art gallery.

11. Burwell School Historic Site

Tour what was one of North Carolina’s leading Presbyterian schools for “young ladies” in Hillsborough from 1837 to 1857. Wander down Churton Steet, where you will find a chocolate shop, a wine store, art galleries, a yarn shop, crafted jewelry, great dining, and more.

12. Hillsborough’s Riverwalk

UNC-Chapel Hill

8. Cat’s Cradle

This legendary live music venue is still going strong after 50 years, and it’s a must stop. Catch other venues including Local 506, The Cave, The Kraken, Nash Street Tavern, and more.

Stroll Hillsborough’s Riverwalk, a 1.8-mile greenway along the Eno River, hike Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area or the Historic Occoneechee Speedway Trail, and wander Brumley Nature Preserve, among other scenic outdoor venues.

9. Last Fridays

On the last Friday of every month, Hillsborough hosts an art walk. Part of the festivities April through September is Last Fridays, a free concert series on the Old Courthouse lawn in downtown from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Steven Whitsitt

Find what you love, or discover something new. Whatever you do here, just do you.

See even more at:

OrangeCountyNC.gov/visitors

1 VisitChapelHill.org • 888.968.2060 WEDDI NG BELLES 2020

Atkinson Farms Southside Virginia’s Premier Event Venue 777 Atkinson Road • Danville, VA 24540 telephone: (434) 489-2653 email: info@atkinsonfarms.com website: AtkinsonFarms.com Atkinson Farms is nestled in the countryside of Danville, Virginia, and only minutes from North Carolina. As one arrives, and enters through the beautiful gates, the expansive view of the land is spectacular. The property consists of hundreds of acres of well manicured fields, trails, woodlands, streams, and six ponds. It is also the home of the Atkinson Barn, the Atkinson Lodge, and the Atkinson Cabin.

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CONTENTS

Features 11

the WEDDING of their DREAMS Ron and Shena fall in love and plan a new life.

16

a DIY masquerade matrimony Ashley wanted something new, different and fun.

65

blind date SUCCESS Leslie and Manu had a mutual friend who thought they should meet.

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CONTENTS

Departments DO’S & DON’TS

FOOD & DRINK

CHECKLISTS

46

37

8

47

42

22

engagement RING Tips on picking the perfect ring for your significant other.

food TRUCKS One couple’s trendy, casual and personal approach to the meal.

the PHOTOGRAPHER 10 tips for choosing the right photographer.

signature wedding COCKTAILS Keep two things in mind when choosing signature cocktails.

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87

the HONEYMOON Smith Mountain Lake experts offer their advice.

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to drink or NOT to drink Providing alcoholic beverages for the entire guest list does impact the budget.

your wedding CHECKLIST Stay on top of details for a flawless day.

your MUSIC: Set the PARTY MOOD The wedding day playlist.

24

photographer CHECKLIST A checklist will not only make their job easier, but insure the bride and groom are not disappointed with the finished product.

CONTENTS

Location, Location, Location 30

OAKHAVEN A “destination venue” for couples looking to make a holiday out of their wedding.

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THE STABLE at THE VIRGINIAN Smith Mountain Lake area experiences a touch of the west at Westlake.

79

LAKE O’ The WOODS An 1852 Greek Revival home in the Inez community of Warren County, N.C.

90

The BARN at LLOYD'S DAIRY The perfect balance between wide open, airy surroundings, and intimate, cozy events.

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CONTENTS

Spring 2020 20

DJ reveals his TRICKS How to get the party rockin’.

58

short-term ENGAGEMENT? A girl’s survival guide.

69

should you hire a WEDDING PLANNER? Help for coordinating all the details of your special day.

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72

no longer just HERE COMES the BRIDE It’s not what couples are doing, but what they are NOT doing.

94 ON THE COVER Hannah Contreras poses on the front steps of Berry Hill Resort.

Photo by Misty Smith

WEDDING DRESSES and how they’ve changed Our staff offers some fun photos and insights from the past.

is published by WOMACK PUBLISHING COMPANY, INC. 30 N. MAIN STREET CHATHAM, VIRGINIA 24531 (434) 432-1654

VOLUME III EDITION ONE

Contributors PRESIDENT

RICHARD I. INGRAM

PUBLISHER

CHAD B. HARRISON

GENERAL MANAGER

offers you EXCELLENCE in ADVERTISING COPY WRITING DESIGN / LAYOUT

LEIGH ANN SHIELDS

EDITORIAL

CHAD ADAMS LANIE DAVIS ADAM FOREMAN SHERESE GORE JENNIFER HARRIS PETER MASON MICHELLE PAYNE JEREMY MOSER VICTORIA REMLEY JAMI SNEAD LUCI WELDON

ADVERTISING

HEATHER ABBOTT TOMMIE JOE LEWIS DARIAN LILES JANIE MILLER RACHEL NANNEY RANDY VELVIN LISA WELLS TAMMY O’BRIAN

GRAPHIC DESIGN SUSAN LAMBERT AMANDA MEADOWS JASMAINE MOTLEY LIZBETH NAUTA MARY BETH WELLBORN

LAYOUT/DESIGN LIZBETH NAUTA

PHOTOGRAPHY C.E. ADAMS LANIE DAVIS ADAM FOREMAN SHERESE GORE PETER MASON MICHELLE PAYNE JEREMY MOSER VICTORIA REMLEY JAMI SNEAD

additional PHOTOGRAPHY

ELIZABETH ASHLEY & CO. LES ATKINS PHOTOGRAPHY WILL PAGE PHOTOGRAPHY KEVYN DIXON PHOTOGRAPHY BEYOND PHOTOS, LLC. AARON HINES SWEET BLISS MEDIA LAURA ASHWORTH RICK MYERS PHOTOGRAPHY TOM LOUGHMAN PHOTOS BY MISTY SMITH 7

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Your

Wedding

Checklďƒźst

Wedding planning can get overwhelming. In many cases, there are tasks that should be completed up to a year ahead of the event. Follow this handy checklist to help you stay on top of all of the important details right up to the big day!

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Nine to Twelve Months Before

> Decide on wedding budget and track all expenses accordingly. > Set date. > Make guest list. > Research venues for ceremony/reception and book. > Decide on bridal party. > Start collecting guest addresses.

Eight Months Before > Shop for and purchase wedding gown. > Book vendors: photographer, DJ or musician, florist, cake maker and caterer. > Register for gifts. > Build wedding website your guests can reference.

Six Months Before > > > >

Choose officiant.

Shop for and purchase bridesmaids’ dresses.

Order invitations.

Buy wedding bands.

Four Months Before

> Reserve transportation to and from the ceremony and reception venues. > Have cake tasting and finalize cake design. > Schedule hair and makeup appointments and trial runs for both. > Make plan for decorating ceremony and reception spaces.

Two Months Before

One Month Before > > > >

Meet with officiant, run through ceremony.

Get marriage license.

Start list of people who’ve confirmed attendance.

Second dress fitting (if necessary).

Two Weeks Before

> Book manicure, pedicure appointment for day before. > Have final dress fitting, bring dress home. > Book groom’s suit or tuxedo fitting. > Track down people who haven’t responded yet. > Confirm number of guests with venue and caterer. > Order meals to feed DJ and photographer day of wedding!

The Week Before

> Make seating chart. > Delegate any day-of tasks to wedding party and family.

> Supply photographer with picture checklist and DJ with a detailed playlist. > Write checks to pay vendors.

The Day Before

> Manicure, pedicure. Time to relax! > Give checks to someone you trust to pay your vendors. > At rehearsal dinner, give gifts to bridal party.

Your Wedding Day > Have flowers delivered to venue. > Make sure venue is decorated. > Keep calm and enjoy.

> Send out invitations. > Make sure bridesmaids and groomsmen have outfits. > Have first wedding dress fitting. > Shop for, buy gifts for bridal party.

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| FEATURE |

The Wedding of their Dreams

Ron Judkins proposed to Shena Royster with this personalized ornament while decorating a Christmas tree in December 2018.

Photos by Elizabeth Ashley & Co.

By Jennifer Harris

Maybe it was Ron’s kind and gener generous spirit, the way he tells her that she’s beautiful or that he treats her like a queen that caused Shena to fall in love.

Or maybe Ron was smitten first because her smile lights up a room, and he loves the way Shena, the most beautiful woman in the world, makes him feel.

Whatever brought them together, Ron describes them as soul mates with a kindred spirit between them that lets him know that God had a hand in their union.

The couple, both natives of Warren County, N.C., and friends for years, had their first date at The Croaker’s Spot in Petersburg, Va., and went to a movie afterward.

They fell in love, and in December 2018, Ron surprised Shena with a proposal. It was Christmastime, and he said he wanted to decorate a small tree in memory of his aunt, who loved the holiday and had recently passed away.

“He passed me a beautiful glass ornament, and I immediately put it on the tree without reading it,” Shena said. “He told me to read it, and when I did, it read, ‘Will you marry me, Shena?’ I turned around, and he was on one knee, and he asked me to marry him. My sons were there, and it was a beautiful moment.”

A mutual friend, Emily McCormick, of Envision Business Solutions and Events, was the planner for the couple’s Oct. 17, 2019, wedding.

Shena said she had a lot going on as the wedding drew near. In addition to her job as principal of Warren Early College High School, she had just sold her house, she and Ron were in the process of buying their home in Youngsville, N.C., and she and her son were temporarily staying with a family member in Raleigh, N.C., until the wedding. What helped her keep it together was hiring competent professionals to handle the wedding and allowing them to do their jobs.

“I had no clue what my reception would look like until I walked in,” she 12

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Shena Royster Judkins had so much going on that she hired competent professionals to handle all the details to create the wedding of her dreams. She had no clue what her reception would look like until she walked in to this elegant setting at Traine in Raleigh.

The second dress she tried on was “the one.”

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said. “It was amazing, and I’m so glad that I didn’t spend time worrying about it.”

When it came time to shop for a dress, Shena had only two requirements: mermaid style and no white. She went shopping with her mom. Her good friend stopped by, and her sister was on FaceTime. The second dress she tried on was “the one.”

“I instantly fell in love with it!” Shena said.

Just to be certain, she tried on two more, then rang the bell and said “yes” to the dress.

Ron, a businessman, wore a custom suit made by a tailor in Maryland.

“He searched for months until he finally found one he loved,” Shena said.

The couple’s wedding included about 175 friends and family members; it was a formal evening affair, done in navy and blush with hints of rose gold.

“It was very personalized, and each element of our wedding displayed the type of couple we are,” Shena said.

The wedding party was small, and included those closest to their hearts. Shena’s matron of honor was her sister, Keisha Royster-Carrawell— who “helped me remain sane throughout the entire process!”—and her maid of honor was her first cousin, Ashley Davis, who is like a sister.

Serving as Ron’s best men were his brothers, Previs Foster and Anthony Judkins.

The Rev. Dr. Tony W. Cozart, whom Shena has known most of her life and loves dearly, married the couple, and to signify their union, Shena and Ron took part in the Unity Cross ceremony.

“It was very touching,” she said.

With many weddings, something goes wrong, whether it’s a small thing or something big. For Shena and Ron, their original venue declared bankruptcy just months before they were to be wed, and the couple was forced to change locations at the last minute. Luckily, another bride referred them to Traine in downtown Raleigh.

“As it turns out, we loved it!” Shena said.

The venue provided an intimate atmosphere in a romantic setting, with soft lighting, candles, floral arrangements and elegant table settings in the bridal colors for the reception, with a disc jockey playing a mix of R&B love songs for dancing.

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“It was a magical evening!”

Shena and Ron shared their first dance as a married couple to “My Latest, My Greatest Inspiration,” by Teddy Pendergrass, and Shena danced with her father to “Your Joy” by Chrisette Michele.

When the celebration came to a close, Shena and Ron made their grand exit with friends and family along each side of them, holding sparklers.

“It was a magical evening!” Shena said. “Our wedding day exceeded our expectations and was indeed the wedding of our dreams. I wouldn’t change one thing about it.”

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| FEATURE |

Ashley and Matthew A DIY Masquerade Matrimony

When Charlottesville, Va., couple Ashley and Matthew Reid began to plan their wedding, Ashley knew that she absolutely didn’t want to go traditional. She wanted to create something new, different and fun.

“I am the type of person that doesn’t want to do what everyone else is doing,” Ashley said. “I don’t want to follow suit. I have my own tastes.”

The couple’s favorite holiday is Halloween, so the two decided to plan a masquerade-themed wedding, set for October 26, 2019, complete with everything glitter, feath feather and draped accents.

Drawing inspiration from the movie “Eyes Wide Shut,” Ashley described their theme as “romantic, with a dark side,” and used the colors burgundy, black, gold and rose gold.

With sparkling tablecloths, shelves of masks for guests, and lots of feathers, Ashley transformed the space of Cottontail Weddings and Events in downtown Danville,

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Va., into a party that everyone wanted to take part in.

“With the town bringing itself back to life, why not throw a big party in Danville?” Ashley said.

For entertainment for her nearly 100-guest party, Ashley and Matthew also included a kid’s table, complete with coloring, candy and craft kits, and a photo booth.

To make sure her theme came through exactly how she wanted it, Ashley did a lot of the work herself, including making her accents and custom designing her dress and Matthew’s suit.

Ashley said Amazon was her “best friend” in finding what she needed when stores and rental places didn’t have what she was looking for.

At the same time, Ashley allowed the vendors, such as their venue and caterers, free rein to do what they wanted for her wedding after telling them a general idea of what she was looking for, giving them a chance to be creative.

Ashley’s bridesmaids wore whatever dress they wanted

By LANIE DAVIS

in the colors that Ashley chose, as long as they were “long, jeweled, sparkly and elegant.”

For flowers, Ashley chose ones that “people don’t usually use” for weddings, including ambrosia, black baccara roses and cymbidium.

“I asked our florist to go towards the dramatic side,” Ashley said. “...They’re not typical flowers that are going to be used.”

When it came to masks, Ashley made sure that she and Matthew had the grandest ones, followed by the groomsmen in plague doctor masks and bridesmaids with fancy, jeweled masks.

Ashley created her own mask to go with her custom-made gown. Going for a Victorian look, her dress was black, with a sparkling bodice and a skirt that held nine layers of crinoline.

Ashley bought the dress at Absolute Bridal in Lynchburg,Va., then had their seamstress take it apart

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and build it back the way she wanted.

“I got the dress at the end of June, and it took us until two weekends before the wedding to have it finished,” Ashley said. “...I loved my dress. I still have it hanging, and I keep looking at it like I just want to put it back on.”

Matthew’s suit was also custom made from Men’s Wearhouse, and a friend ordered his mask from Italy.

The Reids also had shelves of masks available for their guests to choose from, which were their party favors. Ashley worked to make all kinds of masks, with flowers, feathers, lace and sparkles.

“This idea was kind of unsettling to people because they asked what kind of masks they were supposed to wear and how they were supposed to dress,” Ashley said. “It threw everybody off...so I had a whole shelf set up with different kinds of masks and mirrors set up so they could try them on.”

Ashley and Matthew wore their masks down the aisle and took them off for the ceremony, while everyone in the audience kept theirs on.

Matthew and Ashley have known each other for around 13 years. The two met as teenagers in Danville and had been seeing each other off and on for years before Matthew decided to quit his job and move to Charlottesville to be with Ashley. He proposed on October 28, 2017.

Wedding planning was delayed until January 2019, when Ashley said “let’s just do this.” She had the wedding planned by May. “(The planning process) was fun,” Ashley said. “There were moments where I got a little stressed out because I did DIY a lot of the stuff.”

Ashley said she faced some criticism for their nontraditional ceremony and reception.

“People thought I was crazy,” she said. “...I kept getting so many negative comments, so I would go home to him, and I would just cry.”

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DETAILS

Venue: Cottontail Weddings and Events, Danville, Virginia Photographer: Laura Ashworth Flowers: Floral Palette

Catering: Blue Line Catering DJ: Bobby White

Cake: Heather Watlington with Cakes Plus Bridal gown: Absolute Bridal

Groom’s tuxedo: Men’s Wearhouse

However, the way the wedding played out and praise that she received afterward made everything well worth it. She called the wedding the best day of her life.

“When people started to see my vision coming to life, they had no words,” she said. “I kept getting told that it was the most amazing wedding, in the details and the way that I saw this happening was raw and beautiful.”

Matthew said that when he first saw the audience at his wedding, he thought it was just perfect.

“It far exceeded anything that I thought our wedding would look like, and I really don’t think there was an empty seat there,” he said.

By experiencing or seeing her wedding, Ashley hopes people see that they can do what they want to do, especially when it comes to their big day.

“Even if it’s the craziest idea, just do it,” Ashley said “What’s wrong with a little crazy sometimes? I loved our wedding, and it was the best day of my life because I did what I wanted to do...it’s our love, it’s how we expressed it.”

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DJ REVEALS HOW HE GETS THE PARTY ROCKIN’

With the wedding ceremony done, and the cocktail hour winding down, it’s time to turn up the music and dance.

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The Planning DJ Bobby White says a lot of planning needs to go into the music to set the right mood.

“Classically, the bride and groom say, ‘We just want people to have a good time and dance,’” White said.

While there’s nothing wrong with that, White said, he gives clients an outline for the reception to plan around the music and special moments.

“I’ll also meet with the client at the venue beforehand for room setup, organization, and to learn how the flow of the evening is going to work,” White said.

First Dance

>>>>>>>

As the reception begins, White says it’s pivotal to select a song for the wedding party’s entrance.

“This song needs to get the crowd involved. Then we go into the first dance,” he said.

The first dance is normally to a slow song, then it’s up to the bride and groom when and if other dances occur.

“Some want the father-daughter and mother-son dances as soon as the first dance is over. Others want those dances spread throughout the evening,” White said.

Not Just The Reception White added that in addition to the reception, more clients are asking for songs for other parts of the wedding weekend.

“We’ll create a playlist for the cocktail hour. Some may want beach music, while others want a Frank Sinatra and Michael Bublé mix. Others may want a country or bar feel,” he said.

In preparation for the reception, White encourages couples to spend time listening to music together and consider what they may want played.

“Remember, it’s not just music for yourself, but also for everyone attending,” White said. “You have to know your crowd.”

Photo courtesy Tom Loughman@athou3andwords

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THE WEDDING DAY PLAYLIST

SET THE PARTY MOOD

>>>>>>>

YOUR MUSIC

Ariel Pink - Baby Bob Dylan - Lay Lady Lay Mazzy Star - Fade Into You Loudon Wainwright III - Daughter Leisure, Goldlink - Nobody

> > > > > > > > >

Angus & Julia Stone - Chateau The National - Dark Side of the Gym Luu - Don’t Like You I Love You Rhye - Open Big Thief - Shark Smile Ray LaMontagne - Hold You in My Arms Steve Forbert - Romeo’s Tune The Ronettes - Be My Baby Sam Cooke - You Send Me Otis Redding - I’ve Been Loving You Too Long

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John Vincent III - Next To You The Everly Brothers - All I Have to Do Is Dream Vance Joy - Georgia José González - Heartbeats (The Knife Cover) Future Islands - Little Dreamer The Zombies - Can’t Nobody Love You The Cure - Lovesong

BOBBY WHITE

MOBILE DJ & LIGHTING SERVICE

Cigarettes After Sex - Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby Ryan Shupe & The RubberBand - Dream Big Bruce Springsteen - When You Need Me Frank Sinatra - The Way You Look Tonight Bob Seger - You’ll Accomp’ny Me Tracy Chapman - Stand By Me (Ben E. King Cover) Heartland - I Loved Her First David Gray - If 8 Were 9 Clarence Carter - I Can’t Do Without You Daniel Caesar, H.E.R. - Best Part The xx - Our Song

Uplighting Rental Available

Flight Facilities, Christine Hoberg - Clair de Lune RY X - Howling The Mamas & The Papas - Dedicated To The One I Love Leon Bridges - Coming Home The Rolling Stones - That’s How Strong My Love is Van Morrison - Sweet Thing Henry Green - Electric Feel (MGMT Cover) The Flamingos - I Only Have Eyes For You Neil Young - Razor Love

Let us help you make your next event

! e l b mora

Me

bwmobiledj.com 23

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YOUR PHOTOS

Wedding day PhotograPher CheCklist >>> 24

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The days leading up to a bride and groom’s wedding day can be filled with many emotions - excitement, anticipation and joy should all top the list. Frustration, anxiety and irritation should never be a consideration, but without proper planning, negative emotions can easily take over the excitement of the wedding day.

Choosing a wedding photographer is a choice made early in the wedding planning process - making a list for the photographer on the wedding day can be one detail that’s easily overlooked.

Having a checklist for your wedding photographer will not only make their job much easier, but insure the bride and groom are not disappointed with the photographer’s finished product.

Pre-Wedding Bride • • • • • • • • •

Arrival at the venue Wedding dress on hanger Getting dressed Makeup, jewelry, perfume, shoes, etc.

Bride, bridesmaids, flower girl, mothers Group photos with wedding party minus groom Bride with parents, grandparents, siblings, etc.

First look Bride receiving groom's gift

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Pre-Wedding Groom • Arrival at the venue • Getting dressed • Candids with groomsmen, ringbearer, etc.

• Group photos with wedding party minus bride • Groom with parents, grandparents, siblings, etc.

• Groom with bride's gift • Signing the marriage certificate

>>>>>>>

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Pre-Ceremony • • • • •

Venue before guests arrive Guests arriving Guestbook attendants Venue setting, decorations Flowers - bouquet, attendant's flowers, groomsmen flowers • The wedding program • Musicians

Ceremony • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Overall shot of wedding atmosphere Attendants waiting to enter Bride with father Seating of parents, grandparents, etc.

Lighting of candles Groom and pastor at altar Entry of bridal party Father giving bride to groom Father and groom interaction Vows Ring ceremony Scripture readers Unity candle, etc.

The kiss Bride & groom exit Guests cheering Wedding party exiting

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Post Ceremony • Bride and groom entire wedding party • Bride and groom with both families & immediate family • Bride and groom with individual parents, grandparents, etc.

• Bride and groom with ring bearer and flower girl • Bride and groom kissing • Bride and groom with rings

The Reception • Candids of food, drink tables, decorations, seating charts, etc.

• Wedding signage • The cake • The DJ • Cocktail hour candids • Wedding party entrance • Bride and groom entrance • Special dances - Bride Groom/ Bride Dad / Groom Mom • Speeches / Toasts • Candids of reception guests • Bride and groom eating • Cutting the cake • Eating the cake • Dancing, games, etc.

• Garter / bouquet toss • Bride and groom with garter/bouquet winners • Bride and groom sendoff • Bride and groom luggage, etc.

• Bride and groom leaving

Post Wedding Photos • Photo of parents together • Reception cleanup candids • Wedding cleanup candids

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A kiss Forever Oakhaven 15

DANVILLE, VA | 35 MINUTES FROM GREENSBORO, NC CONVENIENT TO P IEDMONT-TRIAD I NTERNATIONAL A IRPORT

MINUTES FROM

EXPERIENCEOAKHAVEN.COM 336 ∙ 589 ∙ 4973

| P ELHAM, NC 29

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| LOCATION |

Oakhaven If you’re looking to turn that special day into a weekend getaway, going to a farm might seem like you’d be roughing it, but appearances can be deceiving.

By JEREMY MOSER

Photography by Aaron Hines

Just a few turns off of Highway 29 in Pelham, NC is Oakhaven, a sprawling 1,500-acre cattle farm that features high-quality accommodations in a country setting that maintains that rustic appeal.

The property dates back to the 1930s when it was used as a vacation spot by Louis Dibrell, a wealthy tobacco salesman. The farm features three small lakes, rolling hills of pastures, three fully furnished houses for guests to stay in and a tall, finished Dutch gamble barn in which the receptions are held.

Patience Ergish, the owner of Oakhaven and granddaughter of Dibrell, has fond memories of spending days at the property in her younger years.

Ergish describes Oakhaven as a destination venue that attracts couples who are looking to make a holiday out of their wedding.

“Most brides want to go somewhere, whether it’s across the country or 30 minutes down the road,” Ergish said.

Ergish said traveling to the place is perfect, as they’re near so many areas.

“We’re right in the middle of North Carolina,” she said.

Ergish said wedding parties enjoy having the place to themselves for the entire weekend. From arrival, to the ceremony and through the reception, the place is booked exclusively.

Couples staying at the venue also have far more freedom and creativity than they would at a more traditional venue, Ergish said.

“Brides can be as creative as they want,” she said.

She told of one couple that decided to get married while riding a horse, and because of the rural setting, they were able to make it happen.

Oakhaven began hosting weddings on the farm after

She told of one couple that decided to get married while riding a horse ... they were able to make it happen.

2008 when they found that the cattle business couldn’t sustain the place. So, they invested thousands into renovating the existing, nearly 90-year-old buildings into the estate that’s had guests come from several states and even China and Germany.

Those renovations included the full finishing of the original, decades-old barn that was their largest investment.

But there was a time when it wasn’t so picturesque.

In 2018, a tornado came through, tore the entire barn down, pulled 100-year-old trees from the ground and damaged almost every building on the property.

Things were looking grim, but as Gary Berret, director of Sales and Facilities, explained, they turned it into 31

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a positive. “In reality, what seemed to be a tremendous shock and throwback, turned out to be one of the best things that happened to us,�

Berret said.

They turned around and renovated every building on the property and built an entirely new Dutch gamble barn on the same spot, using corral fence wood shipped from Montana.

And while they were doing that, they were also remodeling the three residences on the property.

The buildings together can house 24 guests at a time.

Berret said that the women usually love the Manor, a two-story English estate home that has five bedrooms and includes a special dressing room for the bride.

The men usually hang out at the Cabin, a log building that dates back to the original property that has been remade into a popular spot for couples to have their first night.

Then there’s a brick house that dates to the 1950s that was finished last year. The single-story house is a common spot for elderly guests or any that have trouble getting around.

And although every area is within walking distance of the 32

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Guests come from several states and even China and Germany.

others, Oakhaven provides golf carts to get around faster.

The wedding ceremonies are held under the signature oak tree, which was amazingly unharmed from the storm.

Because of that, Ergish and Berret suspect there’s a “higher power” looking out for the place.

“Everywhere that wedding vows were said was untouched by the storm,” Ergish said.

Berret said wedding couples under the tree was not their idea at first. It was a bride that noticed the lone tree on the hill and said she wanted to be married there that led to them investing in the tree as the signature marriage spot.

“Everybody loves the 100-year-old oak tree,” Berret said. “Brides go crazy over it.”

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By LANIE DAVIS

Photography by Sweet Bliss Media

FOOD TRUCKS A new way of catering at weddings 37

WEDDING BELLES 2020

When it comes to weddings, one big cost is usually catering for the reception, especially if it consists of a formal, sit-down dinner with several courses.

Danville, Va., couple Rachel Covington and Phillip Wilson opted to take a more laid back and trendy approach to the meal at their downtown wedding with a taco food truck.

“I don’t like doing things traditionally, or how other people expect me do to them,” Rachel said. “I didn’t want to do the wedding chicken and veggies or the big cake. So we sat down and said, ‘Well, what do we want to eat for dinner at our own wedding?’”

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DARE TO BE DIFFERENT

>>>>>>> Held on May 26, 2019, the two wanted to create a wedding that was for them, with aspects they liked. While there was no specific theme, Rachel said that tacos, margaritas, and llamas all fit in the category of things they enjoy as a couple. They used the colors black, white and gold to tie their space together.

“We had the taco truck and margaritas at the bar, so it would appear to others that there was a theme, but those just happen to be things that I really like,” Rachel said.

The two met through work as Phil worked as an assistant coach for Averett University’s men’s soccer team, and Rachel organized events through the Danville

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>>>>>>> Regional Foundation for the team to volunteer at.

Phil, a Middlesbrough, England native, asked Rachel out, and seven years later, they got married.

Phil proposed in December 2017 at Hohenzollern Castle in Germany.

“It was snowy, and my hands were frozen,” Rachel said. “I couldn’t feel my fingers.”

Their wedding was held at Cottontail Weddings and Events on Craghead Street in Danville, because they enjoyed the location and an old warehouse rustic, but elegant, feel. The venue turned out to be convenient for the couple, because of its proximity to Ballad Brewing for cocktail hour and scenic downtown areas for photos.

Following the ceremony, the couple wanted to make the most efficient process for guests to get their food.

They created their own menu from the food truck, Lonchera Adonai, and reception guests were given menu cards to fill out and take to the food truck outside. They could choose from tacos or quesadillas, then come back into the venue where all the toppings needed for tacos and sides, provided by a local Mexican restaurant, were set up. Chips were placed at each table.

“That made it flow a lot more easily, especially for people who had kids,” Rachel said.

Their bartender, Brandon Thompson, had margaritas ready to serve along with the tacos, and their dessert was cheesecake from River City Cheesecakes.

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Besides her dress, Rachel said they received the most compliments on the food.

“Everyone said it was absolutely delicious, without me even asking,” she said.

Setting the amount of tacos and quesadillas needed before the event eliminated added stress on the wedding day, and it turned out to be a lot less expensive than a formal dinner.

“I think it created more of a family atmosphere and wasn’t as tradition-

al,” Phil said. “It also gave guests time to mingle with other people.”

While the wedding planning process was “stressful” for the couple, they tried to use as many local resources as possible and do as much as they could themselves.

The couple was looking for a celebration of Rachel and Phil, and they were able to achieve that with the help of a food truck to create a relaxed dinner, while also providing their favorite foods.

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Signature Wedding Cocktails When choosing signature cocktails, keep two things in mind: The cocktails should be simple enough that the bartenders can sling them fast enough to keep the line moving, and they should allow room for play so guests can make them something they want to drink.

Story & photos

by Adam Foreman

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The Sour:

The Rita:

Depending on the bartender, your guests, and even the event space, a sour is going to be made either with or without raw egg white. Egg white is flavorless, and the thick and creamy head left on top of the drink will help balance the flavors of lemon juice and liquor. A good bartender will also remember to dry shake all of the ingredients and then reshake with ice.

The base ingredient of any sour is the juice that makes it sour, either lemon or lime, which should always be freshly squeezed.

The spirit can vary, but should be well paired with the juice. Bourbon and amaretto are both classic favorites and are made with lemon. Gin, brandy, and any variety of schnapps should also be mixed with lemon. Tequila and rum should be mixed with lime. Simple syrup, made with any kind of sweetener, is always optional, but highly recommended for this cocktail. • Served in 8-12 oz. standard barware, combine 2 oz. spirit, 1 oz. juice, 1 oz. simple, and 1 oz. egg white (about 1 medium egg) in a shaker without ice. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds to combine the ingredients, add ice and shake again for another 10 seconds. Strain into glass, top with ice from the shaker and garnish with a Luxardo or maraschino cherry. *This drink can also be served up.

Easily one of the most versatile cocktails in history, the margarita can reliably withstand a barrage of flavors, but tequila is the base unless it’s substituted with mezcal, but both should be accompanied with triple sec.

The bartender will rim a glass with a quick swipe of lime and turn in either salt, sugar, maybe a chili blend, or something with edible glitter. Then, in a shaker filled with ice, the spirits should be followed up with juice and an optional sweetener. Never settle for margarita mix.

A classic margarita is salt, tequila, triple sec, lime. Trade out the juice on this one. Tequila and mezcal go really well with grapefruit, but other popular variations include mango, strawberry, orange, raspberry, blueberry, and pomegranate juice. A few dashes of a simple jalapeno agave syrup will add an extra kick. • Serve in a rimmed or naked 8-12 oz. standard barware, combine 1 1/2 oz. tequila, 1/2 oz. triple sec, 1 oz. sour, 2 oz. sweet juice, and 1/2 oz. optional simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice, shake until cold and strain into prepared glass, top with ice from shaker.

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The Spritzer:

The Mule:

Sure, it might not be acceptable at a traditional church wedding, but serving a pre-ceremony spritzer at a non-traditional event space has been a thriving trend. Wedding jitters strike the soon-to-be-married couple the hardest, but nuptial anxiety is common in wedding guests as well. Why not calm their nerves with a slowed down play list and a little glass of something with bubbles at the door? It will be a welcome surprise to those who want it, but easy enough to pass on if it’s not that guest’s style.

A simple champagne or Prosecco spritzer can be prepared quickly and easily, leaving room for a little extra sparkle. Try dropping in a few pomegranate seeds for a pop of color, a dash of Caribbean bitters to set the scene, or even a sprinkle of edible glitter to really make it glisten.

• Served in a champagne flute or coupe, 2 oz. chilled Prosecco, 1/2 oz. lemon juice, 1 oz. Seagram’s gin, 2 dashes simple syrup, and an extra flair if desired.

According to legend, what makes a mule, a mule, is the staple ingredient—ginger beer—because it gives it a kick.

This 3- or 4-ingredient drink is essentially a blank canvas.

A mule is made up of a spirit, ginger beer (never ginger ale), juice, and optional sweetener. The copper cup is cute, but also optional; it’s easier to serve in standard glassware.

The most common is the Moscow mule; it’s vodka, which is lime, ginger beer, and simple syrup. Trade out the vodka for bourbon, and it becomes a Kentucky mule. Try it with gin, and it becomes an English or London mule. Exchange the lime for pineapple juice, use rum as the spirit, forgo the sweetener and add a grind of salt, and it becomes a tropical mule.

• Serve in 8-12 oz. standard barware, 2 oz. spirit, 1 oz. sweet juice, ½ oz. sour juice, optional 2 dashes sweetener or grind of salt, fill with ice, top with ginger beer, and garnish with a lime.

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The Do’s anD Don’Ts

of buying an engagement ring

By JAMI SNEAD

DO

Save for the perfect ring. Once you have made the decision to pop the question, start putting some money aside for the purchase. No couple wants to start their marriage off in debt.

DON’T Forget the four C’s. Cut, clarity, carat, and color.

Shop around. Every jewelry store will have a different selection and prices. Do not settle for the first place you visit.

DON’T

Be afraid to think outside of the box.

Though diamonds are the traditional choice, there are other stones that are just as beautiful. Rubies, sapphires, and emeralds are great substitutes for an engagement ring.

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Take her daily activities into consideration. Does her job require her to work with her hands? Does she workout? Will the ring get in the way?

DON’T

Be afraid to ask for help. Take advantage of your jeweler's knowledge of engagement rings. Also, taking a friend or family member with you might help in choosing the perfect ring.

DO

So you are planning to propose?

Selecting an engagement ring can be an exciting, but stressful, process. There are so many things to consider when selecting the perfect ring for your significant other.

What does she like? How big of a diamond should I get? How much will this cost? A few simple Do’s and Don’ts will go a long way in helping you make the right choice.

DO

DO

Find out what kind of ring she likes.

When you are out and about with your significant other, take her window shopping. Pay attention to the rings that catch her eye, but try not to give too much away. You still want the proposal to be a surprise.

DON’T

DO

Focus on the size. Some girls prefer a smaller, simpler ring. Bigger is NOT always better.

DO

Consult her friends and family. There is a good chance that she has spoken to someone close to her about the kind of ring she would want. Take advantage of any help those people could offer.

Purchase in person. It is only smart to avoid online shopping for engagement rings. Though it is convenient and could be much cheaper, it is always better to know what you are getting.

DON’T

DON’T

Forget to do your research.

Engagement rings come in many shapes, sizes, and styles. Research all of the options before making the final decision.

Panic! Engagement ring shopping can easily get overwhelming. The most important thing is not the ring, but the question that you are asking. Focus on the moment that it is all building up to.

1

Know what you want – Do you want formal photos of your wedding, or are you more concerned with capturing the feel of the moment? If formal, dreamy shots are your desire, be willing to pay the price.

Everyone can capture a good photo or two, but when it comes to having guaranteed photos from your wedding then realize this comes with a price.

Photographers are not there to be your friend, they are working for you, and good photos come with a price, so know that going in.

2

Be realistic about what you want. The more you want, the more expensive the price tag will be.

10

TIPS

for hiring a wedding photographer

By JAMI SNEAD

6

Do you want your photos retouched?

If so, then know you are going to pay a premium for that; however, in the end if you are looking long-term, that quality is often worth the price.

7

Do you want lots of family photos, or are you more interested in having a photo booth or both? Decide these details so you are prepared to discuss with the photographer. Compile a list of photos you want. Show them shots that you like from a friend's Ask to see other weddings they have wedding or even from a magazine. shot. The quality of work and their Good photographers will appreciate experience will tell you a lot about what knowing ahead of time what you want to expect. from your day.

3

4

Set a starting and ending time. Do you want the photographer to capture time with your friends while dressing? Do you want them to stay until the party ends?

Talk about your expectations, and that way no one is caught off guard.

8

9

Discuss how intrusive you want the photographer to be. No matter how discreet the photographer is, if they are moving around, people will notice. Do you want flashes going off during the ceremony? All of this impacts the actual ceremony and needs to be discussed ahead of time.

10

Best Tip! Consider shooting all your bridal party, wedding and family shots before the wedding. That way, the shots taken during the actual wedding will be real, not staged, and you can move right into your reception without any lag time.

If a first look at the bride is a must, that can be arranged as well. It is often more meaningful done this way, as well.

Do not be afraid to shop around.

5

Consider staging your leave. If you plan to party into the wee hours with your friends, you might want to consider staging your leave, so the photographer and guests will have a chance to see this special moment.

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The Stable brings a touch

The Gentlemen’s Quarters at The Stable at the Virginian in Smith Mountain Lake.

| LOCATION |

of the West to Westlake

By SHERESE GORE

The Stable Photos by C.E. Adams

The Stable at the Virginian aims to bring a touch of the West to Westlake at Smith Mountain Lake.

Located at 9945 Brooks Mill Road, Wirtz, Va., The Stable is a barn-like structure that is among the area’s newest upscale event and wedding venues.

“We just love people to come together, to have fun and enjoy themselves,” said Jackie Baker, who owns The Stable at the Virginian with her fiancé Dr. Mike Boyd.

Baker is a certified event and wedding planner from The Bridal Society, one of the largest wedding planner organizations in the world. She has taken design courses as well, making The Stable a “one-stop shop” for such activities.

Events at The Stable are not restricted to human guests. Horses may take part in wedding ceremonies, and true to its name, there are five horse stalls inside the building that are authentic and made to code. The stalls also can be opened for additional gathering space for events or for rent by vendors.

The main attraction is a spacious event hall, which is ideal for dining. Large crystal chandeliers suspended from the 40-foot ceiling light the interior of the event hall, and westernthemed decor rounds out the space.

On the second floor, The Stable offers a bridal suite with a private bathroom, large mirror, and dressing area. It is decorated with candles, crystal chandeliers, and a French love seat. On the opposite end of the building is the “gentleman’s quarters.” It also features a bathroom and seating, but shows off masculine western decor and an audio system.

There’s also a gathering room for the families of the bride and groom, the Western Saloon, and

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a prep kitchen. An outdoor patio offers seating for 25, and overall, the building can accommodate 150 guests.

One could say that the custom-built, 9,000-square-foot western stable could take your breath away.

The Stable is a culmination of Baker and Boyd’s love of the American West, western movies and country music. Boyd is a physician practicing in Martinsville, Va., and Baker is a former nurse, who also worked in marketing and sales in the medical field.

According to Baker, Boyd is a John Wayne fan, and the couple strongly adheres to the concept of “cowboy ethics,” a compilation of values that include honesty, hard work and personal character.

Cowboy ethics was evident in places such as the Dakotas and Wyoming, Baker said.

“You saw that everywhere,” she added.

“Hard-working people, you could take

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An 1800s buggy can be used for wedding photographs.

The Stables

Explore Westlake

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Contact us to find out more about our 9,000 sq. ft. custom built western stable.

It is the perfect location to host your wedding reception.

Explore the Smith Mountain Lake area and all of the amenities nearby.

We are located 5 miles from Bridgewater Plaza.

Contact us for a list of possible vendors and their contact information.

We are here to help start planning your special day.

Event Packages

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Wedding packages are available.

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The Stable at The Virginian is nestled on 40+ acres. Here you will discover a natural setting amidst grand Oaks, Maple trees and rolling green fields. Experience our beautiful sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains. The perfect combination for your special day.

540-521-9748 9945 Brooks Mill Road, Wirtz, Virginia 51

WEDDI NG BELLES 2020

their word, they were honest, and so we really appreciated that, and we wanted to bring something like that back here.�

Baker said that the “community is important.� Aside from the chandeliers, which were the product of a family-owned business in North Carolina, interior and exterior work on The Stable was performed by local contractors and laborers.

The Stable is located on more than 40 acres of rolling fields and oaks and maple trees. It is the first phase of The Virginian project, and future phases will involve efforts that include the construction of an

Table settings and decor are shown above in the event hall at The Stable at the Virginian in Smith Mountain Lake. The event hall can accommodate 150 guests.

outdoor destination named The Pavilion, as well as seasonal events to include a pumpkin patch, corn maze and tractor pulls.

The Stable’s pricing is comparable to other upscale venues, Baker said. The Stable has partnered with Spring Hill Marriott in Roanoke, Va., for wedding packages, and the preferred caterer is Center Stage Catering in Rocky Mount, Va. The Stable is currently accepting wedding reservations.

For more information about The Stable at the Virginian, visit thevirginianatwestlake.com, email jaclyn@thevirginianatwestlake.com or call 540-521-9748.

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The Bridal Suite

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Decorations enhance the design of the Bridal Suite.

Candles adorn a table in the Bridal Suite .

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A girls´ survival guide

to short-term engagements

By Michelle Payne Photos by Rick Myers Photography

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Short-term engagements come with their own set of pros and cons. Terry Wecker, the wedding coordinator at the family-run DeVault Vineyards in Concord, Va., has seen her fair share of short-term engagements.

There are various reasons why a couple would want to embark on a short engagement as opposed to a long-term one. It could be because the couple wishes to start married life sooner than later. Or perhaps one partner is about to embark on deployment if he or she is in the military.

Regardless of the reason, this girls’ survival guide to short-term engagements will help the bride navigate the upcoming months. If the couple is undecided about engagement length, it will also help them both decide if a short-term engagement is their style.

Prioritize the to-do list Wecker said the prioritization of service providers will vary from couple to couple. One bride may prioritize the wedding photographer over the centerpieces. If Wecker were that bride, she’d focus on finding a wedding photographer she’s comfortable with and book them first.

“I think it’s kind of your own personal to-do list. That’s going to be different for everybody,” said Wecker. “Maybe you dreamed of the perfect venue.

Then I would absolutely try to secure that first because those things get booked up quickly.”

For her sister’s wedding, some of the first priorities included finding a photographer, cake and caterer the

bride was happy with.

Some people insist that brides prioritize their venues. But Wecker said that if it’s not something the bride is picky about, then it may not be best to put the priority there.

“When you envision your day, what do you see will be most important to you? What will you be disappointed about if it didn’t happen?” Wecker asks brides.

Be flexible about the day of the week Wedding venues (and other service providers, including photographers) are booked months in advance, Wecker explained. For a short-term

engagement, being flexible about the big day’s date will help open up options.

“If you’re comfortable with having a Sunday wedding, then it’s going to open up some of those providers that you really want,” said Wecker.

Venues may be booked every Saturday in the summer, but be available on a Sunday or a Friday.

Wecker said being open to days outside of Saturday is important.

Get the right attitude “The big thing I tell every bride is that no one knows what you had planned. So if something falls through, it feels like the end of the world to

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you, but no one’s gonna know it happened,” said Wecker.

Centerpieces may not show up on time, for example. But it’s not as though attendees were expecting them or knew what they would look like in the first place.

“They (attendees) won’t know anything’s missing. They’ll enjoy the day for what it was,” said Wecker.

Wecker speaks from personal experience. Her home caught fire two weeks before the big day — her dress, handmade favors, handmade centerpieces, bridal shower gifts, and all of her and her husband’s belongings were damaged.

“Everything was gone,” said Wecker.

In spite of the tragedy, her family and community sprang into action. People volunteered to make centerpieces, asked about her wedding colors — everyone pitched in and made it a positive memory.

“I was almost as surprised as everyone as to what was showing up at the venue on the day of the wedding. You couldn’t really feel sorry for yourself anymore because it was really about that day and bringing all that love together. That definitely happened to me — it was a perfect day. I didn’t miss any of the things that I didn’t have,” said Wecker.

Everything is going to be fine, she consoles brides.

The day goes by so quickly, whether a couple plans for a long- or short-term engagement.

Involve a friend who isn’t part of the bridal party (or hire a coordinator) Oftentimes, the bride’s mother, maid of honor and bridesmaids will tag along to help with dress shopping, tasting cakes and other wedding prep tasks.

But having someone else that you trust and you’re close to who isn’t directly involved is helpful to bring along. This 60

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can be a wedding coordinator or a close friend.

Wecker said this person should be tasked with keeping track of knowing which provider is expected when and where.

That person will be a buffer between the bride and the things that are going wrong.

Even though DeVault Vineyards is simply a venue, Wecker said they ask brides for service providers’ information and what time they are expected. “‘And if we don’t see them at that time, who do you want us to contact?’”

Wecker will ask brides, prior to the big day.

The DeVault Vineyards staff also is invested in the bride and groom’s big day. “We want them to have a wonderful day; we want them to have a great time,” Wecker said. “We always try to make sure we are keeping tabs on that sort of thing.”

Make it special Having a short-term engagement doesn’t mean leaving out the sparkle of an extra special touch. Whether the engagement is long or short, it doesn’t

take much to make the wedding unique.

“My favorite weddings are always the weddings that show something personal to them,” said Wecker. “So they’ll do something that really sparks their personality, whether it’s theming the wedding a certain way or highlighting the husband’s skills.”

As an example, she mentioned a wedding where an altar was used that was built by the groom himself.

“That was just really special. It had some symbolism there,” said Wecker.

Another wedding that was hosted at DeVault Vineyards featured karaoke.

“It was actually probably the most fun wedding I’ve ever been at,” Wecker said smiling. “And I wasn’t even a guest.”

Karaoke is how the couple had met, so they incorporated it into the big day.

Wecker said people were having a blast.

It’s not just about Pinterest. Wecker said couples should look for things that are special and unique to them, making for a memorable day.

The pros and cons of a short-term engagement “Your choices are going to be more limited,” said Wecker of short-term engagements.

This can be frustrating to a bride, but it can also have a positive effect.

With decisions and time being limited, moving through the planning process will entail less deliberation in the decision-making process.

Wedding planning can be stressful, especially as the bride draws closer to the big day. Having a short engagement mitigates the length of time spent on fussing over the stress of preparations.

“Everything usually comes together.

And the things that do go wrong — no one (but you) knows it was supposed to happen,” said Wecker.

A happily ever after is there for the couple — whether they choose a short-term engagement or a long-term engagement.

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honeymoon Do’s anD Don’Ts

By C.E. Adams

The bar at the Stable at the Virginian.

C.E. Adams

DO

go over your budget when planning your wedding to ensure you have enough money for a good honeymoon.

You may forget little items that add up for your wedding, which cuts into your honeymoon budget.

DON’T

be fooled by misleading photos of destination areas. Ask a professional for help in picking your honeymoon destination.

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Planning your wedding is hard enough, but there’s also your honeymoon that you have to think about. To help you make the right decisions, we reached out to some knowledgable people in the Smith Mountain Lake area to find out what they consider to be do’s and don’ts for honeymooners.

The Smith Mountain Lake, Va., area is known as a honeymoon spot for many couples. There are plenty of outdoor activities. Smith Mountain Lake State Park has gorgeous scenery, and couples can rent lakeside homes, boats and even a houseboat.

One person who specializes in planning is Jackie Baker, co-owner of The Stable at the Virginian. She is a certified wedding and event planner of The Bridal Society, which is one of the largest societies of certified wedding planners. The society also offers travel agents that help with honeymoons.

The Stable is a fairly new establishment, ideal for wedding events, with plans for expanding. Baker said that they want to create a place for a honeymoon couple to stay to rest for a day or two after the wedding. One option being considered is a silo, with the upstairs being a honeymoon suite.

Baker provides the following advice for her clients to consider for their honeymoon:

DO

get a reputable travel agent. Planning a wedding and honeymoon can be stressful, so have a honeymoon travel agent take care of it. Let them know what you want and show pictures of things that you like to help the travel agent pick out the best destinations for your trip.

DON’T

go for the cheapest honeymoon package if that means a sub-par honeymoon experience.

DO

consider a honeymoon registry. Family members and friends can treat you to helicopter tours, spa treatments, romantic dinners and more.

DON’T

let anyone else influence your honeymoon. Your honeymoon is for you and your future spouse to enjoy time together in a place of your choosing.

DO

consider travel time. If you only have seven days allotted for your honeymoon, spending two days traveling to your destination and two days back cuts into your actual honeymoon, so consider a closer location.

DON’T eat a lot of rich foods. It’s likely something you’re not used to.

DO

compromise with your fiancé on where you go. You may love the beach, and he may want to go up the mountains. Find something you both would enjoy.

DON’T

plan a lot of excursions. Find a balance of adventure and relaxation so you can enjoy yourself.

DO

plan to splurge to make your honeymoon the best it can be. Your honeymoon is once in a lifetime, so fly first class, upgrade to a suite and spoil each other. Do whatever you’ve always wanted to do.

DO

bring proper attire for what weather is expected at your destination.

DON’T

wait to make reservations. Whether you want to go for ride in a hot air balloon over scenic country or on a raft through the Grand Canyon, you’ll want to reserve your spot enough in advance so it’s not booked for the day you desire.

Jeanette Childress, broker and property manager of Lake Retreat Properties at Smith Mountain Lake, offered some additional do’s and don’ts.

Childress laughed at this entry.* She has heard a lot of stories through the years and has worked with a lot of honeymooners renting out one of the 65 homes that Lake Retreat Properties offers.

All the homes are fully furnished and on the waterfront, with many allowing pets and featuring hot tubs and fireplaces. It’s most popular on Valentine’s Day and during the spring, summer and fall, and honeymooners have multiple options to meet their price range or location, such as near the state park.

Wherever you plan to go for your honeymoon, and whatever you plan to do, keep these tips in mind. But most importantly, have fun and make your honeymoon something special that you’ll always remember.

DO

choose a familiar destination for a honeymoon rather than an exotic destination. It’s more comfortable and decreases the stress factor by not going off to someplace unfamiliar.

*DON’T

lock yourself out of the house when you’re in the hot tub. If renting a home, the last thing you want to do is go to the neighbor’s house in a towel.

DO

make each other feel special. Pay attention to each other, not outside influences such as social media.

Enjoy long dinners, scenic walks, and look at the stars, for examples.

DON’T

forget to be vaccinated. If traveling to foreign locations, research what immunizations you need. Get them well before your wedding to be protected.

DO

rest at home for a couple days before going back to work. Plan some days to rest after your honeymoon.

DON’T

go immediately to the honeymoon after the wedding. Your wedding day can be stressful, so wait 24 to 48 hours to relax and spend time together before getting on an airplane or other mode of transportation.

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Leslie was all smiles as she was escorted down the aisle by her aunt, Virginia Hall.

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| FEATURE |

By JAMI SNEAD

&

photos by Beyond Photos, LLC.

Leslie Manu

A BLIND DATE SUCCESS STORY

Leslie McInturf and Manu Moss met in 2012 when a mutual friend had a feeling that the two of them would hit it off. The friend brought Manu to Leslie’s home for them to meet, hang out, and get to know each other. It turned out, she was right. Eight years later, Manu and Leslie have overcome obstacles and stuck by each other's sides, no matter the issue. They are recently married and enjoying being Mr. and Mrs. Moss.

Leslie recalled some of her fondest memories from their relationship saying, “We loved to travel. We would go to places like the beach, Atlanta, we went to Miami twice, and we went on a cruise. That was so much fun.” As with most long-term relationships, there are good times and bad times, but nothing would bring them closer than one particular event that nearly cost them everything.

In December 2017, Leslie was involved in a head-on collision that claimed the lives of both of her parents and left her badly injured. As if all of that were not hard enough, Leslie was about eight months pregnant with her and Manu’s son, Malachi. The couple was given the chance to say goodbye to their son in the hospital.

“It was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to go through in my life, but I would definitely say that it brought Manu and I closer together. He came to the hospital once he 65

WEDDING BELLES 2020

From left to right: Matron of Honor Erin Matzen, Flower Girl Rebecca Matzen, Leslie, Manu, Ring Bearer Matthew Matzen, and Best Man Manu, Jr.

The bride and groom share a kiss while the rest of the wedding party cheers them on.

Mr. and Mrs. Moss were all smiles as they entered their reception after the wedding ceremony.

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heard what had happened and hasn’t left my side since. We are stronger together, and I know that we can get through anything.”

Manu helped Leslie through the difficult time and eventually decided that she was the woman that he wanted to spend his life with. For her birthday in February 2019, he treated Leslie to a special night at a fancy hotel in Richmond, Va.; she was still recover recovering and using a wheelchair, but Manu wanted to make sure that she got to enjoy her special day. Leslie had no idea just how special the night was going to be.

In the privacy of the hotel room, with only the two of them present, Manu got down on one knee and asked her to be his wife. “Funny story is, I kind of already knew. We were on our way to Richmond and I went to grab something out of the glove box when Manu smacked my hand, looked at me, and said, ‘No!’ I pretty much knew what was going on, but I don’t think anything can really prepare you for it. There’s still that doubt that you might have gotten the wrong idea,” she said, laughing.

People always talk about how stressful planning a wedding can be, but Leslie’s experience was quite the opposite. “I would highly recommend a wedding planner. Of course, it’s more expensive, but totally worth it in the end. She did everything from choosing the flowers to designing the invitations. All I had to do was approve them, and the best part was that she helped us stay on budget.” Leslie admitted that the seating chart and guest list were at times a little aggravating, but nothing that caused any major concerns before the big day.

Leslie and Manu had chosen to be married on December 27, 2019. The day had a special significance to Leslie; being the same month and day of her parents’ wedding. On the big day, her best friends, Chloe and Brittney, handled the hair and makeup, while the other bridesmaids, including her sister, Erin, as the matron of honor, were there to help with whatever she needed. Leslie recalled being nervous before her trip down the aisle.

“It wasn’t that I was nervous about getting mar married, it was more like I suddenly realized that all eyes would be on me, and that was intimidating.” she said.

All of those nerves seemed to settle when the doors opened, and she saw her future husband waiting for her. “I just remember looking at him and knowing that this was where I was meant to be.”

Leslie and Manu couldn't take their eyes off of each other during the ceremony.

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“A wedding planner will take care of major details and small ones, helping make sure you don’t forget about all the details.”

> > > >

Brittany Livengood is perfectly relaxed as she gets ready for her wedding, knowing that all the details have been taken care of.

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— Brittany M. Duarte

By JENNIFER HARRIS

Photos by Tom Loughman @athou3andwords

wedding planner?

SHOULD YOU HIRE A

>>>>>>>

Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting, and stressful, times in a couple’s life. But hiring a wedding planner—to help coordinate details from start to finish, or just pull things together on the day of—can take the pressure off the happy couple so they can enjoy their special day without worrying about whether or not the cake shows up or the flowers are delivered on time.

Brittany M. Duarte, owner of Charmisey Events in Norfolk, Va., says weddings are like a production.

“If something is not there, it will slow down the whole day, such as if the DJ shows up at the wrong building,” she said. “A wedding planner is needed for the couples’ enjoyment.

We take care of major details, and the small details they may not think about.”

Duarte has a hospitality degree from Norfolk State University and has been in event planning since 2015. Formerly an event planner in the hotel business, where she specialized in handling more than 100 weddings a year, she admits she

likes a little organized chaos and loves working with weddings.

Duarte recommends that wedding planners be hired a minimum of 12-14 months in advance if they will be providing full wedding planning services, from getting vendor quotes and negotiating special prices to organizing bridal appointments to making sure everything goes off without a hitch on the wedding day.

“A wedding planner will take care of major details and small ones, helping make sure you don’t forget about all the details you may not think about, like do you need an aisle runner, the flower girl’s basket, the boutonnieres,” she said. “We know what to look for and what you may need.”

For the couple that wants to handle the big details themselves, such as choosing the wedding and 69

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reception venues and contracting vendors, at a minimum hiring a day-of coordinator is a must, Duarte said.

This should be handled at least nine months before the wedding.

“A day-of coordinator will orchestrate things on the wedding day, like making sure vendors are on time, and making sure the day is not stressful for the couple,” she said. “Also, a day-of coordinator will have cell phone numbers for all the vendors and be able to get in touch with them in case something goes wrong.”

Choosing the right wedding planner is important, Duarte said, so making sure personalities mesh well is key.

“A lot of money is invested in your wedding, so you should have a good relationship with your planner,” she said.

Duarte also suggests checking out the planner’s background and referrals from past clients.

If a couple is on the fence about whether or not to hire a planner, Duarte said they should consider if they want to be worried on their wedding day about whether or not the centerpieces are on the tables, or if the cake has been delivered.

“At least hire a day-of coordinator so you can enjoy your wedding day,” she said. “It just makes your day so seamless.”

One bride’s experience Sometimes, a bride lucks up and gets wedding planning services free. That was the case after another Brittany, Brittany Livengood of Salisbury, N.C., and Will Lynch of Warrenton, N.C., got engaged in October 2018.

Brittany’s sister-in-law, Sydney Way, helped her with early wedding planning tips and final coordination with vendors in the weeks leading up to the November 2019 nuptials.

With hospitality and marketing degrees from Appalachian State 70

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University, Way has 10 years of event planning experience in the hospitality industry and is the private events director for the Town Point Club in Norfolk, Va. In addition to getting advice from Way on the venue process and how to get started with planning, Livengood said she learned a lot by attending a wedding expo in Asheville, N.C., where she met the disc jockey she and Lynch ended up selecting and

their cake vendor. She also picked up useful information from exhibitors, got ideas for flowers and even earned some discounts and freebies, such as a free wedding cake topper for the couple’s one-year wedding anniversary rather than having to freeze their cake topper.

For other brides who want to handle major planning themselves, Livengood recommends Pinterest for wedding ideas and lists of questions

to ask vendors, and buying a wedding self-planner book for organizing vendor business cards and other information.

Getting started early in the planning process was key for Livengood, who attended the wedding expo more than a year before her wedding.

“I was not stressed at all. I was able to focus on what I wanted,” she said. “I got a lot of stuff knocked out early that I wasn’t expecting to.”

In the final month and a half before the wedding, Way put her planning skills to the test, communicating long-distance the wishes of her brother and future sister-inlaw, who were living at the coast, to vendors over 300 miles away in the North Carolina mountains where

the wedding took place.

Even as the wedding party was lining up minutes before the bride made her entrance, Way—a bridesmaid—kept her cool, told everyone where they needed to be and had everything under control.

“This is the biggest thing that I see as an event director. It can be overwhelming for the bride if she doesn’t hire a wedding planner, at least a day-of planner,” she said. “It takes organization, time and causes stress without one. Everyone is different.”

Someone who has planning experience in general, even experience planning a family birthday party, and who is organized, may be able to plan their own wedding up until handling day-of duties, Way

said, versus someone who is easily stressed out.

“You have to know your personality,” she said.

As an events director, Way said she would recommend that every bride hire a day-of wedding planner to handle all of the details in the final months and coordinate with vendors on-site on the wedding day.

“You need to have a go-to person, a contact person for all of those details,” she said. “Things like lining up people for the ceremony, so you have organized chaos instead of just chaos, things like fluffing the bride’s dress. The bride is the last one to go down the aisle, and the father of the bride definitely isn’t going to think about that.”

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By Victoria Remley

Photos courtesy Les Atkins Photography

Bride

NO LONGER JUST

Here comes the

This year wedding receptions are shaking up traditions across Virginia!

It is not about what couples are doing, but what they are not doing.

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This sunset photo highlighted Elizabeth and James’ special day in Virginia.

> > > > > > > > > Les Atkins, a wedding photographer in North Carolina, said more wedding and reception activities incorporate all of the guests, instead of the bride and groom being the focal point.

Many bride and grooms now do couple dances, where couples are asked to join the bride and groom on the dance floor for a song. Many couples now do a grand exit that includes more of their guests. Their exits incorporate bubbles, confetti, streamers or sparklers.

The traditional string of dances, like the couple’s first dance, father-daughter dance and the mother-son dance have exited the wedding reception floor. Couples now opt for a more inclusive ceremony.

“They’re spending more time visiting with guests. They’re mingling with family and friends and not tying themselves up to certain events throughout the night,” Atkins said.

Some couples still take part in the traditional cake cutting, bouquet and garter toss, and a grand exit, but otherwise they avoid traditional trends during their wedding and reception.

While some couples still include bouquet and garter tosses, Atkins did not see as many of them at 2019 wedding receptions.

When asked why they chose not to partake in these activities, some brides said it would not be appropriate because they have older guests, or they just do not want to do it. Some brides would rather spend their time dancing because they paid for a DJ. 74

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Zach and Joanna see each other for the first time on their wedding day for their first-look. The first-look is popular because it allows couples to see each other before their ceremony.

> > > > > > Katie and Hunter take part in the popular wedding sparkler exit following their Lake Gaston wedding.

Katie excitedly throws her bouquet.

>

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The beauty of the North Carolina countryside in spring provides a picturesque setting for wedding photographs.

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| LOCATION |

Lake O’ The Woods

By LUCI WELDON

A destination wedding venue in the heart of the countryside

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“Destinationesque” is the word that Trish Peters uses to describe Lake O’ The Woods, the 1852 Greek Revival home in the Inez community of Warren County, North Carolina, which she and her husband, David, operate as a wedding venue and bed and breakfast.

She considers the historic home and its surrounding grounds of more than 100 acres as the perfect picturesque venue for weddings in an ideal location — close enough to the Research Triangle area to provide an easy drive to the big city while being far enough away to offer a quiet escape for couples, their wedding parties and their guests.

Peters describes the property as a resort-like setting offering the same amenities that couples might

The pool at Lake O’ The Woods.

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includfind in more urban areas, including a swimming pool with terrace, tennis court and gym, with the best that its location in the country has to offer, plus stables, walking trails and fishing ponds.

“We offer the advantages of top resorts with the feel of home,” she said.

Lake O’ The Woods offers a hearty portion of Southern hospitality as couples prepare for their big day. Peters acts as a wedding planner for brides and grooms who choose not to bring in their own.

She wants to relieve any worries they might have that their nuptials will not be perfect.

“We have done weddings as small as eight and as large as 350,” she said. “From the moment that cou-

ples become our clients and step on the property to the moment I wave goodbye, I am with them every step of the way.”

Before she meets with couples, Peters provides them with a planning document to help them narrow down their vision of the perfect wedding. When she talks with them, her first question is “What do you want?”

Brides and grooms may choose from event packages ranging from wedding day only to a full weekend with a number of services included, or Peters can develop an individualized plan based upon the couple’s needs.

“It can be tailored to what they want and how they want to allocate their budget,” Peters said.

The terrace by the pool at Lake O’ The Woods is a popular setting for wedding receptions, offering room for both seating and dancing with a view of the surrounding acreage.

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She loves the versatility that the Lake O’ The Woods property brings in the variety of locations couples may select as the backdrop for their vows. Many couples choose to be married on the front porch with its elegant columns. There is also the terrace in front of the pool, which is often used for receptions, the stables and a cabin site. One couple chose to be married by a pond. Others might select an open area on the grounds with trees in the background.

The property offers sleeping accommodations for 30 people.

Peters wants couples and their families to feel only happiness and excitement during their stay at Lake O’ The Woods. For that reason, only one wedding is booked on any given weekend, eliminating the stress of having to pack up and leave by a certain time and day.

Couples may choose to bring in their own florist, musicians and caterers. However, Lake O’ The Woods offers many of the services they need, including the officiant for the ceremony. Peters and her team can provide flowers for the wedding party, a wedding cake, disc jockey, food for the rehearsal dinner and wedding buffet, among others.

Lake O’ The Woods’ caterers offer a number of menu options to help brides and grooms plan their food selections. They may choose from a variety of appetizers, salads, entrees, vegetables, bread and desserts. The menu may be customized if something couples want is not on the list. Peters may also arrange for

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Lake O’ The Woods offers a number of options for couples to choose the perfect backdrop for their wedding ceremony, but the front porch with its elegant columns and wide steps is the top choice for brides and grooms.

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“Destinationesque”

Lake O’ The Woods offers a hearty portion of Southern hospitality as couples prepare for their big day. outside catering if brides and grooms prefer.

“It’s your way, your choice,” she said.

The Lake O’ The Woods team also handles setting up and taking down of chairs and tables for wedding events.

Services include arranging tables with linens, glassware, candles and place settings.

Peters hopes to make her clients feel reassured that everything will be handled in order to make their wedding perfect, whether they want something simple or more elaborate.

A typical wedding season for Lake O’ The Woods runs from March to November, but spring weddings are not as popular as they once were. Peters finds that October is the peak month now.

No matter when a couple chooses to be married, Peters wants to provide them the wedding of their dreams with no stress.

“I want them to enjoy their time, the space and the occasion,” she said.

Lake O’ The Woods is at 1452 Davis Bugg Rd., Warrenton, N.C. For more information, call 252-257-1541, email info@lakeothewoodsplantation.com or visit lakeothewoodsplantation.com.

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Kevyn Dixon Photography Family and friends gather on the front lawn of Lake O’ The Woods to send a newlywed couple off in style as they begin a new chapter in their lives as husband and wife.

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To drink

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or

By PETER MASON

not to drink

on your big day

When planning a wedding celebration, one important factor to consider is what drinks to serve at the reception, and whether or not alcoholic drinks should be served. Beer and wine are commonly served at weddings, and champagne is a popular beverage for toasting the newlyweds.

Providing alcoholic beverages for the entire guest list can heavily impact the wedding budget.

Many couples who plan a wedding will stock the bar themselves to save money if their wedding venue or caterer will allow them to do so.

“Even the most religious of weddings often serve alcohol,” expert and former wedding venue employee Sarah Garza said. “I did see at least one dry wedding where they valued their music selection over alcohol.”

Garza is a former employee of Nesselrod on the New River in Radford, Va. During her time there, she bartended several weddings and helped with the planning process for one of her friend's weddings.

“An open bar will run anywhere from $2,000 to $9,000 depending on what you want,” Garza said.

“The cost of a typical bar with beer and wine is A newlywed bride toasts with her friends at her wedding in celebration.

> > > > > > > > > 87

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> > > > > > > > >

$2,000 while the cost is closer to $5,000 with liquor.” Of course, it also varies with the number of guests.

Melanie Shifflett, a former wedding planner who worked with a small company in Fredericksburg, Va., stated that while most people typically choose to save money by serving only beer and wine, some wedding venues will offer a “signature cocktail” service, with at least one type of liquor.

“The alcohol can be really expensive,” Shifflett said. “Most venues require you to use what they have in house.”

An open bar is the most common, but also the priciest option. Another option for serving alcohol is a cashonly bar, which is usually fully stocked, but also requires guests to pay for their own beverages. Martha Stewart Weddings (marthastewartweddings.com) recommends against this option and states that “it’s better to provide a limited bar than to ask your attendees to pay per drink.”

Another important factor to consider is how many people who attend will actually want to drink, since not everyone drinks alcohol, and some are lighter drinkers than others.

“An open bar will run anywhere from $2,000 to $9,000 depending on what you want.”

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Choosing what type of drinks and how much to serve at your wedding can be confusing, but there are services that aim to help you decide what's best for you and your guests.

>

Rarely will religion or culture play a role in what drinks to serve, Garza said. There are religious people who consider drinking alcohol to be a sin. Sometimes an Islamic or devout Christian wedding will steer clear of alcohol, depending on the crowd, and serve drinks such as soft drinks, tea and lemonade.

“I know this because of one wedding we catered to at the Nesselrod,” Garza said. “I also have several friends from Pakistan, Nepal and India who have been in weddings or are married.”

Shifflett stated that with the weddings that she has planned, she doesn’t think religious beliefs usually play a role in weddings — not just in what drinks to serve, but also in the planning process.

“Some people are getting married in barns instead of churches,” Shifflett said. “Often the only time you can usually tell if the couple is religious or not is what type of officiant and vows they choose.”

One more factor to consider is the time of day

>

>

>

>

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that the wedding is taking place. If the wedding is held in the morning or early afternoon, more people are likely to choose not to drink, as opposed to a wedding being held in the evening. This is also a reason why couples typically will choose a weekend to get married instead of during the week if they can find a date that works best for themselves and their guests.

When deciding on the right amount, it’s always best to have too much instead of not enough.

According to Martha Stewart Weddings, a safe estimate on serving alcohol is approximately 75 percent wine and 25 percent beer, if you plan on serving only beer and wine. For example, if the wedding is projected to run about four hours with 100 guests, plan on having about 300 servings of wine available and 100 servings of beer. For weddings that do serve liquor, it’s estimated that a typical wedding should serve 50 percent wine, 20 percent beer and 30 percent liquor.

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LLOYD’S DAIRY

The family behind the Barn at Lloyd's Dairy, a two-year-old barn event venue in Efland, N.C., has found a way to strike the perfect balance between wide open, airy surroundings, and intimate, cozy events.

With 15,000 square feet of converted barn space, the venue is an expansive, hidden gem. Weddings take place under a tin roof surrounded by incredibly high ceilings, exposed barn beams, and a 150-foot-long Chapel Hill gravel floor that can fit ceremonies, receptions or both.

"We can fit hundreds of people in this space," Ben Lloyd said. "A key element of the space is its versatility and its size. We've had a wedding with over 350 people in here before."

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Andy Lloyd, along with his father Ben Lloyd, his brother Craig Lloyd - a 25-year event director - and sister Cheryl Humphrey - a local interior designer - transformed the space from a commercial dairy barn to a modern event venue. The family has added all of the practical updates that a barn needs to become a venue. There are new bathrooms, commercial fans that circulate a breeze throughout the barn during summer months, lights that are adjustable by dimmer and even a bridal suite, newly created by Humphrey and complete with vanity spaces and large mirrors.

The process of transforming the Barn began when one of Ben Lloyd's grandsons and his fiancĂŠ decided they wanted to have their wedding there. Three years later, the family has hosted many more weddings, an annual Haunted Barn, a Spring & Fall Antiques Festival along with other community events.

"We were this close to turning this barn into a horse boarding facility," Ben Lloyd said. "But I asked the N.C. State agritourism experts about barn weddings after we were approached by the first two bridesto-be, and they said it was good business, and it appears to be."

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Even with the increasing demand for their space, the Lloyds have managed to keep what they call a "country chic" feel to the Barn. Set in the midst of the family's 700-acre farm, the venue isn't a separate, updated part of their land. Instead, it's a way to draw people into the rich history of the former dairy.

The farm is 97 years old, and 84 years of its life were spent producing thousands upon thousands of gallons of milk. Today, Ben and Andy Lloyd continue to farm around 230 acres of grain and hay around the venue.

The event space doesn't ignore its roots. "We keep it country," Ben Lloyd said. "That's how it works." The lofty space feels homey, with rustic wooden siding including siding in the bathrooms and bridal suite that is sourced from the farm - and warm strings of lights lining the ceiling.

There are remnants of the Barn's former life around the venue, such as large metal dairy signs from decades ago at Lloyd's Dairy, metal milk cans used to transport the Lloyds' milk in the 1930s, and photographs of the past eras at the farm lining the bathroom and dressing room spaces.

Since they opened the Barn up for weddings, the family have met couples from all over the area.

Their location is close to interstates and highways, less than 30 minutes from Chapel Hill and Durham, N.C., and under an hour from larger cities.

"People from Greensboro all the way to Raleigh can travel from their homes to our barn in less than an hour," Ben Lloyd said.

Looking forward, the family doesn't plan to stop at the renovations they've already completed. Ben Lloyd hopes to complete a "barn within a barn" in an uncovered space adjacent to the finished venue, where meeting and events with up to 300 people can take place. This venue will be rainproof and available for rental like the barn currently up for wedding rentals, but would also have heat and AC. With Humphrey as the design mind and the person in charge of weddings, Andy and Ben Lloyd over the facilities and grounds and Craig Lloyd responsible for promoting the space, the family has assembled a team that plans to continue growing their presence in the region's wedding scene.

"My daddy told me to crawl before you walk and walk before you run," Ben Lloyd said. "We're taking it slowly, but we plan on doing more and more."

Come visit us anytime!

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GETTING MARRIED? Piece of cake...

has all the details you need to make your day special.

Creating Unforgettable Memories

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LLOYD’S DAIRY

WEDDINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS

226 North Lloyd’s Dairy Road EFLAND, NC

919-880-5680 www.lloydsdairy.com

Exquisite Occasions Florist & Gifts

252-535-1026

Florist & Gifts for All Occasions Monday-Friday 10:00-6:00 Saturday 10:00-2:00 Bridal Appointments Only

1026 East 10th Street • Roanoke Rapids, NC

David.ExquisiteOccasions@gmail.com • RiverValley.CE@gmail.com

River Valley

Catering and Events

252-535-2026

Full Service Catering Full Event Design & Coordination Full Event Services & Rentals Bridal Appointments Only 93

WEDDING BELLES 2020

Wedding A look at

1985 2006 The staff at Womack Publishing contributed these photo classics to see if wedding dresses really have changed, or do we go back to the dress our mother wore?

Classic lace, large half sleeves with shoulder power and a flower crown.

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Spaghetti straps, silk with classic veil.

Dresses

and how they’ve changed

2011 2019 Lace, sleeveless, with baby’s breath adorning the hair.

Lace, low back, long veil, and a Marine.

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“a flower cannot blossom without sunshine & “a flower cannot blossom without sunshine & man cannot live without love.” man cannot live without love.”

The The Ginger Ginger Bread Bread House House

1799 Memorial Drive, Danville, Va 24541 1799 Memorial Drive, Danville, Va 24541 thegingerbread.com | 434-791-2700 thegingerbread.com | 434-791-2700

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