CUE’s Bride Book

JUNE 2014 A

GAMBIT

P UBL I C AT I O N

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CUE bride book JUNE 2014

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Dressed all in white Bridal gowns to wear down the aisle and beyond

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A perfect pair

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The ringâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the thing

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Space exploration

27

Dance all night in sparkly metallic shoes

Classic and unconventional rings

Beautiful venues off the beaten path

Registry tips

Tell them what you want, what you really, really want

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Attendant gifts

35

A modest proposal

37

Ways to show your wedding party you care

Tips for popping the question

Receptions to remember

DIY decoration tips for a festive reception

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Buff brides

How to get fit for the big day

Everything

WEDDING...We

Do!

EXCLUSIVE CATERER FOR

New Orleans Opera Guild Home 2504 Prytania Street Historic Garden District Mansion Accommodates Up to 200 People!

FULL - SERVICE CUSTOM CATERING

to match your palate, theme & budget!

{

Engagement Party Bridal Luncheon Ceremony Reception Bridesmaids Brunch Rehearsal Dinner

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M I G N O N FA G E T INTRODUCES

Nouveee Amsale A Bridal Collection

“One of my fondest memories of my wedding day is my mother placing a strand of pearls around my neck. LUZ is the Spanish word for light. I chose to name this new collection LUZ to describe the glow that surrounds a bride on her wedding day.”

JOIN US AS WE WELCOME A NEW BRIDAL COLLECTION NOUVELLE AMSALE TO THE RACKS OF WEDDING BELLES!

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3801 MAGAZINE STREET 504.891.2005 LAKESIDE 504.835.2244 CANAL PLACE 504.524.2973 WWW.MIGNONFAGET.COM

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10% OFF ALL NOUVELLE AMSALE GOWNS THIS WEEKEND *appointments encouraged

DRESSED

ALL IN

WHITE

From rehearsal dinner to reception, these bridal gowns cover all the bases.

P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y C A R LT O N M I C K L E

V-neck gown with beaded overlay, $899 at Prima Donnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Closet; veil, $300 at Wedding Belles; cameo necklace, $182 at Trashy Diva.

Off-the-shoulder lace gown, $299 at Prima Donnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Closet.

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Lace cap-sleeve dress, $1,100 at Wedding Belles; shoes $169.99, and bracelet, $39.99, both at Prima Donnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Closet.

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Shift with lace overlay, $399, swing coat, $479, necklace, $129, all at Yvonne Lafleur; veil, $150 at Wedding Belles; shoes, $238 at Trashy Diva.

ON THE COVER: Beaded halter gown, $209 at Trashy Diva.

MODEL

Corinne Capdepon

HAIR AND MAKEUP

Chelsea Johnson for Glenn Michael Salon (1623 Metairie Road, Metairie, 504828-6848; www.glennmichaelsalon.com)

STYLIST

Missy Wilkinson

STORE INFORMATION

Prima Donnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Closet (1206 St. Charles Ave., 504-525-3327; 701 Metairie Road, Metairie, 504-835-1120; 927 Royal St., 504-875-4437; www.primadonnascloset. com) Trashy Diva (citywide; www.trashydiva. com) Wedding Belles (3632 Magazine St., 504891-1005; www.weddingbellesstationer. com) Yvonne Lafleur (8131 Hampson St., 504866-9666; www.yvonnelafleur.com)

Special thanks to The Roosevelt New Orleans Hotel (130 Roosevelt Way, 800-925-3673; www.therooseveltneworleans. com) for hosting the photo shoot.

Thanks also to Allison Lindsly, Bridget Cloud and the hotel staff for helping everything go smoothly.

WEDDINGS

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Twinkle toes

Bridal shoes sometimes get overlooked. When a bride walks down the aisle, everyone’s attention tends to be on her dress, hair and face. But after tying the knot and during the Electric Slide at the reception, it’s the shoes’ time to shine. Take your first steps into marriage with these show-stopping bridal shoes.

Metallic heels bring glitz and glamour to a bride’s ensemble.

B Y K AT H L E E N A L L A I N

Oscar de la Renta evening sandal with silk ankle cuff, $795 at Cece Shoe (5500 Magazine St., 504-269-6464; www.miminola.com).

Stuart Weitzman stiletto, $430 at Angelique Shoe (5421 Magazine St., 504-891-8992; www.angeliqueshoe.com).

Jeweled cut-out peep-toe heel, $19.99 at Shoe Nami (18 Westside Shopping Center, Gretna, 504-366-0177; 3118 Magazine St., 504-8951717; 3319 Severn Ave., Metairie, 504-885-0805).

Gold stiletto heel with chain, $19.99 at Shoe Nami.

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Sarah Flint two-toned heels, $650 at Cece Shoe.

Pelle Moda heel with suede bow, $184.99 at Feet First (526 Royal St., 504-569-0005; 4122 Magazine St., 504-8996800; 200 Metairie Road, Suite 102, Metairie, 504-3249124; www.feetfirststores.com).

Jimmy Choo glitter peep-toe heel in Champagne hues, $675 at Cece Shoe.

Glitter pump with bow, $324 at Feet First.

Bronze heel, $159.99 at Feet First.

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Spa Destination

for Brides

Enjoy a relaxing bridal luncheon, shower or bachelorette party.

Escape the stress of wedding planning with a half-day Creekside Retreat.

Manicures • Pedicures • Spray Tanning • Massage Therapy Facials • Body Treatments • Make-up Application Spa services include the use of the club.

Spa lunch included with retreat packages.

Call now to schedule your event facial.

Perfect for the bride-to-be or the whole bridal party.

20 1 3

1201 Ochsner Blvd., Covington, LA | 985.801.7120 | TheSpaAtStoneCreek.com

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

STARTS HERE

The Red Maple can create the elegant New Orleans wedding of your dreams with all the charm and romance you imagined. Our Wedding Consultant is poised to help plan your big day, while our Chef can prepare classic dishes like Redfish Pontchartrain, Shrimp and Crabmeat Lafitte, and delicious cuts of USDA Prime Steaks.

With flexible dining room spaces and two courtyards, The Red Maple easily accommodates up to 300 guests.

Contact us now to begin your happily ever after!

T H E R E D M A P L E R E STAU R A N T MARY ROMANO, WEDDING CONSULTANT mary@theredmaple.com • 504-508-4211 1036 LAFAYETTE ST. GRETNA, LA 70053 WWW.THEREDMAPLE.COM/WEDDINGS

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Textured gold bands

by Rebecca Overmann, $1,000-$2,000 at Marion Cage.

Three-stone bridge engagement ring by Carla Caruso, $1,800 at Marion Cage.

Ring me up

2.01 carat round brilliant-cut diamond, $28,500 at Symmetry Jewelers.

Romantic rings run the gamut from classic to quirky.

B Y

J E A N I E

2.01 carat antique Europeancut diamond, $18,800 at Symmetry Jewelers.

R I E S S

Tiffany Soleste emerald cut diamond ring starts at $2,300 at Tiffany and Co.

The Tiffany Novo ring starts at $3,190 at Tiffany and Co.

COME PARTY WITH US!

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BOOK YOUR BACHELORETTE PARTY AT ONE OF OUR LINGERIE STORES!

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504.299.3939

WWW.TRASHYDIVA.COM/PARTIES

Store information Marion Cage (3719 Magazine St., 504-891-8848, www.marioncage. com)

White diamond stacked rings, $1,000-$2,000 per ring at Marion Cage.

Heart-shaped ring, starts at $2,350 at Tiffany and Co.

Mignon Faget (3801 Magazine St., 504-891-2005; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 504-835-2244; The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., 504-524-2973, www.mignonfaget.com) Symmetry Jewelers (8138 Hampson St., 504-861-9925, www.symmetry-jewelers.com)

Silver Blanche rings start at $200 (far left) and $100 (left) at Mignon Faget.

Tiffany and Co. (The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., 504-434-6002, www.tiffany.com)

Marry Me, Mag pie!

Vintage & Antique Engagement Rings for Every Budget

Vintage & Estate Jewelry 4529 Magazine Street 891-1333 JUNE.20 1 4 <<<

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Something

different

Unconventional venues for unique wedding events

B Y

L E E

C U T R O N E

Built in 1752, the Old Ursuline Convent opened for private functions two years ago.

PHOTO BY CARROLL GRE-

V E M B E R G/G R E V Y P H O T O G R A PH Y (W W W.G R E V Y.CO M)

T

here’s nothing unusual about having a wedding ceremony or reception in a historic venue — especially in a city like New Orleans.

On the other hand, there are historic landmarks that shine with fresh appeal. Some offer the extra cachet of having recently opened for weddings and related events.

Built in 1752, The Old Ursuline Convent (1100 Chartres St., 504529-3040; www.stlouiscathedral. org/convent.html) in the French Quarter is one of the oldest buildings in the Mississippi River Valley and the oldest example of French Colonial architecture in the United

States. For many years, visitors could experience the structure and grounds (which include a formal parterre, most of the interior, a rear garden with an 80-by-40-foot tent and a parking lot, which also can be tented) only by taking guided tours.

Two years ago, the convent opened its doors for private functions.

Catholic weddings can be booked in St. Mary’s Chapel next door; the convent can be booked for all denominations for wedding receptions and parties.

“It’s been a hidden gem for years,” says Kevin Charpentier, the venue’s wedding director. “When

girls walk in through the gatehouse and into the garden, it’s overwhelming. You don’t expect it to be behind the wall.”

The convent can accommodate as many as 2,000 people. “Everybody wants something different,” Charpentier says. “The convent has such a French ambience. You’re outside and you’re under the stars and you’re looking at the buildings of the French Quarter.”

Opened last December for weddings and other events, The New Orleans Lakefront Airport (6001 Stars and Stripes Blvd., 504243-4010; www.lakefrontairport.

com) is a triumph of art deco architecture and a preservationist’s dream. A full interior and exterior restoration by RCL Architecture was completed in 2013, returning the structure to its original design.

The terminal features a two-story atrium, a painted tile and plaster coffered ceiling, aluminum deco railings and scalloped, smoked glass lighting fixtures. There also are a cafe, a spacious bar and an exterior observation deck with spectacular views of the airfield and Lake Pontchartrain. Seven of the eight original murals by late artist Xavier Gonzalez remain and are being restored.

The first and second floors of the atrium can be rented for large parties (up to 800 people banquet-style), while the Walnut Room, restored to its 1934 grandeur, is ideal for smaller, more intimate gatherings.

Kristin Casey, director of sales and marketing for Messina’s Catering & Events (504-469-7373, www.messinascatering.com), which manages the space and handles the catering, suggests brides begin the planning process a year in advance to ensure availability.

“When you walk in the front door, the airport definitely has a wow factor,” says Louis Capo, executive director of The NonFlood Protection Asset Management Authority, the agency that oversees the airport. “We want the Airport Terminal to become a destination venue.”

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Congratulations on planning your special day.

LET THE HISTORIC FAIR GROUNDS RACE COURSE BE THE BACKDROP OF YOUR WEDDING. • Wedding ceremonies and receptions, rehearsal parties, bridal showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties • Indoor or outdoor space to accommodate 75-600 people • Full service catering available on site • Free secure parking For additional information, contact Mary Cay Kern or Shannon Campagne at (504) 948-1285.

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Now a weddings and events venue, the Marigny Opera House opened in 1853.

PHOTO S BY M A IL E L A NI PHOTO G R A PH Y(W W W. M A IL EL A NIPHOTO G R A PH Y.CO M)

billed as a cultural crossroads, Basin Street Station (501 Basin St., 504-2932600; www.basinststation.com) is another well-preserved snapshot of New Orleans’ past. Built in the 1920s, it is the last remaining original train station in the city.

In 2001, Valentino Hospitality Enterprises bought the structure and renovated it as a visitor and information center, office building and event venue. The first floor houses the visitor center, Southern Railway model train collection, a coffeeshop and a gift shop; the fourth floor addition, designed to capture the building’s panoramic views of the French Quarter, Treme and CBD, is home to a dining room that seats 50 to 120 guests. There’s also a bar, a catering kitchen and an outdoor terrace.

The facility’s parking lot is steps from the front door. Because the space is relatively small, Michael Valentino, managing partner of Valentino Hospitality Enterprises, says it is best suited to rehearsal dinners and small weddings.

“One of the attributes of the building is that we can do cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the first floor where people can drift around, enjoy the exhibits and artifacts, then elevator everyone up for the event on the fourth floor where guests

are captivated by the views,” he says.

The facility’s event planner, Ivy Restituto, can help with details (whether catering is handled in house or independently).

Though six months is the optimal lead time for wedding party events, Basin Street Station can accommodate bookings with less notice.

Located on the spot originally occupied

by Union Race Course, which opened in 1852, The Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots (1751 Gentilly Blvd., 504-944-5515; www.fairgroundsracecourse.com) is the third oldest racing site still in operation in America. It’s also a popular venue for weddings and related affairs. Weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners and showers during the race season (November to March) are easily built around a “day at the races” theme. But there are perks for off-season events as well – including lots of free, secure parking, indoor and outdoor spaces and several event planners on staff. Group sales manager Shannon Campagne has booked events into next year but notes that the Fairgrounds has booked wedding events with as little as a month’s notice.

“A lot of people don’t realize we are open for events year around,” she says.

For those in search of ecclesiastic

The New Orleans Lakefront Airport features original art deco styling.

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ambience without denominational constraints, The Marigny Opera House (725 St. Ferdinand St., 504-9489998; www.marignyoperahouse.org) offers the beauty and history of a church with an unconventional twist. Dating from 1853, the building was Holy Trinity Church until 1997. Current owners Scott King and Dave Hurlbert have reconceptualized it as a “Church of the Arts,” an acoustic-only venue for performing arts, weddings and other functions. The 3,000 square feet of available space includes a Steinway grand piano, seating for 150, a shaded side lawn and what associate director Spencer Doyle calls “perfect acoustics.”

The site also has a special events coordinator, Brandon Sanford.

A casual outdoor space and a small-town atmosphere are what you’ll find at St. Bernard Parish’s Aycock Barn (409 Aycock St., 504-278-4242; www.visitstbernard.com). The huge open-air pavilion affords weddings, corporate events, picnics and other parties the rustic charm of an outside setting while also providing protection from the elements. Located in Old Arabi’s Cultural District, it is home to St. Bernard’s seasonal Seafood & Farmer’s Market and the Old Arabi Art & Wine Walk. It is near The Old Arabi Sugar Museum and the former site of LeBeau Plantation (now the site of The Old Arabi Sugar Festival).

The Basin Street Station is the last remaining original train station in the city.

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Registered Quests

Tips for making the most of your wedding registry.

W

edding registries are a win-win for bridal couples and the people who want to buy gifts for them. Many stores that offer china, crystal, housewares or gifts also have registries bridal couples can compile that include everything from fine china patterns and flatware to towels, sheets, pans and art. Many couples establish registries at several different stores — one for dishes, crystal and flatware and others for linens, cookware, furniture and home improvement tools.

Registries help couples gather what they need to build a new home together, but there also are benefits for gift givers.

The wish lists offer items in a range of prices, inform buyers if personal monogramming is available for glasses or linens and show how many items from each category — place settings or glasses, for instance — have been purchased. Even people who don’t plan to purchase from a registry can use it to gain insight into a couple’s personal taste and style, allowing them to select a personal gift that matches the couple’s aesthetics.

Stores that operate registries normally ship — there’s often a gift-wrapping option — directly to the couple, which is convenient for out-of-town guests and those who don’t attend a shower beforehand.

Registry experts at Adler’s (722 Canal St., 504-523-5292; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 504-523-5292; www.adlersjewelry.com) and Macy’s (The Esplanade, W. 1401 Esplanade Ave., Kenner, 504-461-4800; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 504484-4600; www.macys.com) recommend the bride and groom work together on a registry and give some thought to their lifestyle, which will determine what they really need.

Often couples can fill out a registry online, but Linda Hobbs, who has worked as a registry consultant at Adler’s for 38 years, recommends couples come into the store and meet with a consultant before they start.

“We work with them one on one,” she says. “We don’t just give them a [bar code reader] that they shoot at items. They need to know the pros and cons of all the products there.” It takes about an hour to go through all the items they should consider, and though an appointment isn’t necessary, Hobbs says it allows the staff to set aside time for them exclusively.

At these meetings, couples also can learn ways to get the most out of their registries. Many stores, Macy’s and Adler’s included, have options for guests to put money toward a gift card couples can use to select items on the registry or other things in the store.Under Adler’s “completion program,” when seven of any one item is purchased, the eighth is free. Other businesses also offer incentive programs to help couples obtain the unpurchased items on their registries.

“The brides today are really smart,” Hobbs says. “About three-quarters of them have an idea of what they want, but it’s good to go over it. You have to customize what you get with the way you entertain or live. ... It’s good to remember when they PAGE 29

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Registry tips • Start early — Recommendations

about when to establish a registry vary from shortly after you are engaged to a minimum of four months before the wedding date to allow guests to shop for showers, parties and the wedding.

• Meet with a consultant —

These free advisers can tell you what items are most useful to most bridal couples and which are used infrequently. They also can discuss specific products such as which dishes, cookware, etc., are dishwasher-safe, durable or fragile.

Appointments aren’t always necessary, but they are advised. Set aside at least an hour.

• Consider the basics — Some

consultants recommend white dinnerware as a base so couples can transform the look of their table throughout the year by mixing in dishes with colorful patterns or by changing accessories and decor.

• Stock up on must-haves —

Sheets, towels, pots and pans, baking dishes, storage containers and cooking utensils are essentials, but luxury items and appliances like mixers, coffee makers, vacuum cleaners and bread makers also can be placed on a registry.

• Ask about special programs — Some stores offer incentives

• Update your registry — Keep

• Register together — Both the

• Read the fine print — Check

such as “completion programs,” gift cards, free shipping or giftwrapping options and more for gifts purchased from a registry.

grew up how their mom and dad entertained, what they used. This allows them to consider what they might want to add later.”

The gift cards are good for picking up items you didn’t know you needed.

“We generally suggest they wait until a month after the wedding to see what they get (from people who send gifts after the wedding date),” Hobbs says, adding that by waiting, a bride might find she needs serving spoons more than a gravy boat. “We have brides who … will come in right after their honeymoon. Then we had another bride who came in after five years and said, ‘I’m so glad I waited. Now I know what I need.’”

Lots of couples today choose a basic white china pattern and mix in more colorful patterns, often from different product lines, Hobbs says.

“I see a trend now that it’s more plain (patterns for basic place settings), a lot of mixing of the different vendors,” Hobbs says. “Now there’s a lot of plain, basic patterns with accent plates or soups. They can customize it to their taste. I see a lot of concentration on everyday (place settings); most of them are dishwasher-safe.”

Macy’s and Adler’s advise couples not to restrict the size of their registry.

“I tell them not to worry so much about the quantity of things they’re putting down,” Hobbs says. “Put down what you want and what you will really use, and put down items in a wide price range.”

sets, such as glasses and place settings, and what items come as extras, such as serving pieces.

bride and groom should be part of the process for selecting items for their life together. First, take an inventory of what you have and the style you want in your home together. Some couples like to assign categories: the groom selecting electronics, for instance, and the bride choosing the bedding or china patterns.

• Create a registry that reflects you — If you’re a laid-back couple, consider registering for a more casual dinnerware pattern you can use every day, then mix in some family pieces or more formal items to use on special occasions. If you often entertain family and friends, choose an assortment of serving pieces and bar accoutrements.

• Choose a variety of prices — Make your list varied with a wide range of prices to accommodate all budgets.

• Know what you’re getting — Pay attention to what comes in

track of your registry and the items purchased and consider adding things to maintain a good price range. each registry’s policies on returns, exchanges and using gift cards or store credit. Some registries have time limits for those actions. Many stores maintain registries for two years or so after the wedding so family and friends can use it for future gifts.

• Spread the word — Put registry

information on your personal online wedding page, if you make one, or let your family, friends and attendants relay the message to guests. (It’s still considered gauche to include registries on invitations.)

Having a registry available online is convenient for guests, and making it easy to use is key.

• Say thank you — Many gifts

bought through a registry are mailed directly to the wedding couple, so your guests may not know it has arrived until you acknowledge it. Etiquette expert Emily Post says thank you notes should be sent within three months of receiving a wedding gift.

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Special

guests B Y

K A T H L E E N

Celebrate with a 15-piece macaron box set and Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut, $77 at Sucre (3025 Magazine St., 504-520-8311; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 504-834-2277; www.shopsucre.com).

A L L A I N

Wedding party attendants go the extra mile to make your day memorable. Here are gifts to let them know you care.

An alligator hide flask offers a distinguished look for imbibing discreetly, $70 at Aidan Gill For Men (550 Fulton St., 504-566-4903; 2026 Magazine St., 504-587-9090; www.aidangillformen.com).

New Orleans-inspired bracelets are perfect for out-of-town bridesmaids or a New Orleans-themed wedding, $26 to $50 at Hazelnut (2735 Hwy. 190, Mandeville, 985-626-8900; 5515 Magazine St., 504-891-2424; www.hazelnutneworleans.com).

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Geo. F. Trumperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gift set in sandalwood comes with shampoo, body wash, shaving cream, cologne and deodorant, $125 at Aidan Gill For Men.

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Cultured freshwater pearl studs are a simple and timeless gift. The pearls measure 9 mm and are attached to sterling silver posts, $50 at Adler’s Jewelry.

An engraved, silver-plated pocket knife makes a thoughtful gift, $18 at Adler’s Jewelry (722 Canal St., 504-523-5292; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 504-523-5292; www.adlersjewelry.com).

There’s no shame in looking good, and with this Dopp kit, men of style can proclaim that sentiment to the world, $50 at Aidan Gill For Men.

Rudman’s Gifts You’re invited to shop our fine collection of Business, Social & Wedding Invitations and Announcements Engraved • Thermographed Foreign Languages Welcome Blank Invitation Stock & Stationery Wedding Accessories Gifts from over 200 Vendors Custom Printing of Invitations, Stationery, Programs & Napkins

Have a

New Orleans Style Rehearsal dinner

504-833-1286

741 Veterans Memorial Blvd.

Mon.-Sat. 10 am-6:30 pm

info@rudmans.com www.rudmans.com Established 1970 Locally Owned & Operated

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A modest

proposal

When it comes to proposing, simplicity adds to the element of surprise.

B Y

J E A N I E

R I E S S

R

obert Dula has witnessed 293 proposals from the perch of his gondola in New Orleans City Park and has never heard a “no.” In the Bella Mae, a boat built in Venice that he tours around the lake, he sees about a proposal a week, but Dula says each one is different.

“Every one is unique,” Dula says. “I never know what to expect when I see the guy getting ready to pop the question. The reactions are numerous. Sometimes I believe they’re expecting to get proposed to, and other times they’re completely blown away by the experience and they get excited and cry and all that kind of fun stuff.”

For Lulu Alexander, a wedding planner who divides her time between New Orleans and New York, surprise is key. “Normally I say keep it simple,” she says. “You probably don’t want too many things. If he does too much, she’s probably going to get suspicious. So pick one simple thing. Go to a specific location, like a restaurant or a courtyard, or have someone serenade you.” After the excitement, the most important thing is preserving the moment.

“What’s the point if you don’t have a photographer?” Alexander says.

Though it might seem extravagant to hire a planner for a moment defined by its spontaneity, Alexander says most of her clients contact her about proposals because they’re often on either end of a spectrum of organization: There are the ones who are really put together and want to hire someone to help smooth it out, and there are those who aren’t organized at all and need a lot of help and coaching.

What does coaching entail? Mostly ways to keep the secret. Alexander says she’s seen grooms-to-be pull out the ring box while they’re saying something sweet, and before they can finish, the future fiancee knows what’s about to happen, because she’s eyed the box.

On the subject of rings, Lulu says that’s another way to make sure a proposal goes smoothly: Make sure you pick the ring with your significant other’s taste in mind.

“If a guy doesn’t have a direct line on exactly what kind of ring his fiancee would like, he

Wedding planner Lulu Alexander recommends courtyards and restaurants as romantic places to pop the question.

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“I slip the bottle into the water without anybody seeing me,” he says. “Then I spin around and go back toward the bottle and say something to the proposer like, ‘Hey, we’re trying to keep the park clean, how about grabbing that bottle for me?’” When the proposer grabs the bottle, he opens it and hands the note to his betrothed. While she’s reading, he gets down on one knee.

“That works like a charm,” Dula says. “It’s fantastic. Like I said, 293, all yeses. I’ve yet to see anyone say no.”

Dula attributes the success of proposers in his boat not just to the romantic venue but also to careful planning. “I guess they know their partner pretty well and have just given it a lot of thought,” he says. “I see some of my couples come back a year or two later for anniversary rides and things like that.”

Dula and Alexander agree that knowing what your intended spouse wants is of the utmost importance. Though details like the venue are important — Dula recommends anywhere in City Park, especially in front of the LOVE statue in the sculpture garden, while Lulu suggests a cute French Quarter courtyard to set the scene — Dula’s primary advice is clear and concise: “Make sure this is the move you want to make, because it’s a big-time commitment.

Don’t just jump into it at the spur of the moment. Give it lots of thought.”

HI BAR SUS

should probably propose and then let her pick out the ring,” Alexander advises.

Tiffany and Co. lets brides-to-be try on engagement rings. Many clients propose while standing in the case line, says vice president Diane Brown. “Tell us about your girlfriend: How did you meet: What is her name? What does she do? And as soon as you propose please bring her here,” Brown says. “For us it is the beginning of a special, long-term relationship with a client, and it is an honor to us and a serious responsibility to assist with an engagement ring.”

For those hoping to keep the proposal a surprise, get the right ring and have it handy at the proposal, Alexander suggests asking the intended fiancee’s best friend, “because every girl tells her best friend what kind of ring she wants.”

Dula has become a kind of proposal planner simply because he rows a big, beautiful, romantic boat and he’s embraced the role, even if it’s just by default.

“Generally, they set something up with me,” he says. The gondolier offers what he calls a “Proposal in a Bottle,” an elaborate setup in which he has the proposer write some sweet sentiment or poem that Dula prints on parchment paper. He burns the edges to make it look antique, then rolls the paper up, puts it in an empty wine bottle and puts a cork in it.

Personal touches M

any brides envision a themed wedding reception with beautiful matching decorations. Couples can add more personal touches, however, with some inexpensive do-it-yourself projects.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t settle for the same old table centerpieces and prefabricated decorations. One way to put a personal mark on each table at your reception is to find knickknacks or trinkets that mean something special to you, then use spray paint to turn them into a coordinated collection that can spark dinner conversation.

Paint mismatched candlesticks and Christmas bulbs with spray paint in your wedding colors to create a glistening and glamorous centerpiece. Similarly, turn lovebird figures and plain tins into one-of-a kind favors.

Custom-made napkin rings are a personal detail for reception tables. Personalize wood or metal rings (available at crafts stores) by gluing on small decorations, ornaments or initials and spray-painting them to coordinate with other table decorations.

Numbering the tables is an easy way to direct guests to their seats, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simple to add elegance by using inexpensive photo

Wow guests with original wedding reception features

frames purchased from a store or garage sale, or collected from around your home. Purchase house numbers, like those used on mail boxes or home entrances, that will fit the glass area of the picture frames. Remove the glass, clean and spray paint the frame and numbers the color of your choice. While those dry, spray the glass with Krylon Looking Glass Mirror-Like paint, which transforms clear glass into a mirror-like surface. When everything is dry, reassemble the frames and use an adhesive to bond the table number to the front of the glass. Nestle the numbers among your other table decorations for an elegant presentation.

Add personal touches to your guest book table by converting an old birdhouse into a vessel where guests can put cards. Spray paint the birdhouse in your wedding colors and complementary metallic colors for an eye-catching display.

Find photos of the bride and groom during childhood or snapshots from their courtship and frame one or two for each table, along with information about the picture. It often prompts guests to share their own stories about the bridal couple.

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CUE REHEARSAL DINNERS | RECEPTIONS | VENUES

BRIDE BOOK Advertiser Directory

Andrea’s 3100 19th St., Metairie; 834.8583 andreasrestaurant.com Antoine’s Restaurant 713 St. Louis St.; 581.4422 antoines.com Austin’s Seafood & Steak House 5101 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie; 888.5533; austinsno.com Canal Street Bistro 3903 Canal St.; 482.1225 canalstreetbistro.com Commander’s Palace 1403 Washington Ave.; 899.8221 commanderspalace.com The Cannery 3803 Toulouse St.; 486.8351 cannerynola.com The Columns Hotel 3811 St. Charles Ave.; 899.9308 thecolumns.com Eiffel Society 2040 St. Charles Ave.; 525.2951 eiffelsociety.com The Elms Mansion and Gardens 3029 St. Charles Ave.; 895.9200 elmsmansion.com English Turn One Clubhouse Dr.; 392.2200 englishturn.com Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots 1751 Gentilly Blvd.; 948.1285 fairgroundsracecourse.com Five Happiness 3605 S. Carrollton Ave.; 482.3935 fivehappiness.com Hilton New Orleans 333 St. Charles Ave.; 378.2807 hhstcharles.com The Hotel Modern New Orleans 936 St. Charles Ave.; 962.0900 thehotelmodern.com Joey K’s 3001 Magazine St.; 891.0997 joeyksrestaurant.com Latrobe’s on Royal 403 Royal St.; 299.0601 latrobesonroyal.com

The New Orleans Hotel Collection 527.0428 frenchquarterweddings.com Nirvana Weddings 874.5279 nirvanaweddings.com nirvanaweddings@gmail.com Palmettos 1901 Bayou Lane., Slidell; 985.718.8718 palmettosrestaurant.com Race and Religious 510 Race St. • 523.0890 raceandreligious.com SoBou 310 Rue Chartres.; 552.4095 sobounola.com The Red Maple Restaurant 1036 Lafayette St., Gretna; 508.4211 theredmaple.com/weddings Rock-n-Sake 823 Fulton St.; 581.SAKE rocknsake.com Saints & Sinners 627 Bourbon St.; 528.9307 saintsandsinnersnola.com St. Francisville West Feliciana Parish 800.789.4221 stfrancisville.us Steamboat Natchez 400 N. Peters St; 569.1431 steamboatnatchez.com Willie Mae’s Scotch House 2401 St. Ann St.; 822.9503

SERVICES | EVENT PLANNING | TRANSPORTATION All Southern Livery 985.674.5858 / 504.577.5466 allsouthernlivery.com Event Rental 362.8368 youreventdelivered.com

CATERING | CONFECTIONS Catering by Eiffel 2040 St. Charles Ave.; 525.2951 cateringbyeiffel.com

Joe Gambino’s Bakeries 1.800.Gambino Gambinos.com The Kupcake Factory Kenner, Uptown, Metairie, French Quarter; 464.8884 thecupcakefactory.com Martin Wine Cellar 714 Elmeer Ave., Metairie; 896.7350 MartinWine.com Mikimoto 3301 S. Carrollton Ave.; 488.1881 mikimotosushi.com Ralph Brennan Catering & Events 539.5510 ralphbrennancatering.com

SALONS | SPAS | COSMETICS Belladonna 2900 Magazine St.; 891.4393 belladonnadayspa.com BLEU 701 Metairie Rd, Suite 112-2A; 309.5999 bleuablowdrybar.com Hair Loft by Le Unique 5300 Tchoupitoulas St.; 895.2911 hairloftnola.com The Spa at Stone Creek 1201 Ochsner Blvd., Covington; 985.801.7120 thespaatstonecreek.com Twisted Hair Salon 4824 Prytania St; 309.7791 twistedsalon.com The Woodhouse Day Spa 4030 Canal St.; 482.6652 nola.woodhousespas.com Vintage Hair 655.2100 myhautedame.com alicia@myhautedame.com

JEWELRY Boudreaux’s Fine Jewelers Metairie; 831.2602 Mandeville; 985.626.1666 Baton Rouge; 225.928.6868 Magpie 4529 Magazine St.; 891.1333 Migon Faget 3801 Magazine St.; 891.2005 Lakeside; 835.2244 Canal Place; 524.2973 mignonfaget.com

Symmetry 8138 Hampson St.; 861.9925 symmetryjewelers.com

GIFTS | FAVORS | BRIDAL REGISTRY Gentry 6047 Magazine St.; 899.4223 Rudman’s Gifts 741 Veterans Blvd.; 833.1286 rudmans.com Mary’s Ace Hardware 732 N Rampart St.; 529.4465

MUSIC White Oak Productions Inc. 8428 Oak St.; 314.6680 neworleansweddingbands.com

FLORISTS Beth’s Flowers 2014 Clearveiw Pkwy.; 455.2353 bethsflowersonline.com The Plant Gallery 9401 Airline Hwy.; 488.8888 theplantgallery.com

DRESSES | TUXEDOS | SHOES | ACCESSORIES | CLOTHING Bel Amour Bridal 1901 Manhattan Blvd. F, Suite 104, Harvey; 302.7797 belamourbridal.com The Bridal Boutique by Mae Me 3331 Severn Ave.; 266.2771 mae-me.com Mimi 5500 Magazine St.; 269.6464 miminola.com Pearl’s Place 3114 Severn Ave, Metairie; 885.9213; pearlsplace.com Pelican Coast Clothing Company 5509 Magazine St. pelicancoastclothing.com Trashy Diva 829 Royal St. 2044, 2048 Magazine St. 831 Chartres St. 299.3939 www.trashydiva.com Wedding Belles 3632 Magazine St.; 891.1005 weddingbellesstationer.com

~ See ads and call advertisers for more information about venues, products and services for your wedding ~ 38 CUE BRIDE BOOK

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Perfect fit

A pre-wedding workout guide for brides and grooms

M

ost people invited to a wedding look forward to drinking, dancing and eating cake. For the bride and groom, however, the impending marriage ceremony and party means trimming, tightening and toning up for the big day.

Michelle McCormick, personal trainer at Life Time-The Healthy Way of Life Company, says starting a fitness program together can help brides and grooms handle the pressure of the wedding, gives them a chance to work as a team and sets the framework for a healthy lifestyle they can maintain throughout their marriage.

“When I work with brides and/or grooms, I tell them it’s usually best to start thinking about their health and fitness goals about three months before the wedding day to allow plenty of time to set goals, establish a regular routine and adjust to a healthier diet,” she says. “Crash diets or extreme exercise programs are not something I ever recommend, given the risks for injury or illness before the big day.”

McCormick suggests a three-month plan broken up into four-week increments:

WEEKS ONE TO FOUR — Focus on nutrition and exercise education and creating new and healthy habits.

Nutrition is key when trying to lose weight, decrease body fat or improve your overall health. “Eighty percent of your success will be from your healthy food choices,” McCormick says. Lay out a nutrition plan that consists of carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats, with each meal containing between 300 and 600 calories.

Carbs should consist mostly of fruits, vegetables and complex carbs such as lima beans, squash, sweet potatoes and black-eyed peas.

Avoid simple carbs made with refined sugars such as candy, fruit juice, soft drinks and convenience foods.

Proteins should be lean and free of hormones and antibiotics whenever possible. Try chicken, almonds, turkey, fish, flank steak or tofu. A good protein powder also can be used to supplement your diet.

Make sure to include monosaturated and polyunsaturated fats, known as “good fats” in your diet. These fats help increase your “good” cholesterol while lowering your “bad” cholesterol and boosting your immune system.

Incorporate olive oil, sunflower oil, coconut oil, avocados, soybean oil or flaxseed oil to your recipes.

Also begin a fitness program that incorporates weight training and cardio intervals. Start with two or three days of weight training, two or three days of cardio and one day of Pilates or yoga.

WEEKS FIVE TO EIGHT — During this interval, couples should create momentum and focus on switching up exercise and cardio routines. Adding sessions with a personal trainer or attending group fitness classes one or two days every other week are good ways to change up your routine. Continue with a healthy nutrition program.

Exercise should include one to two weight training exercises per body part once or twice a week. Try to continually switch up the amount of weight being lifted and the number of repetitions to help stimulate change in your body. Continue this routine two to three days per week and add in another day of Pilates or yoga. Focus on having three to five meals throughout the day.

WEEKS NINE TO 12 — In the final weeks before the wedding, it is important to continue the fitness and nutrition routines you have developed over the last few months, but the new focus should be on rest and relaxation, since stress can increase as the big day approaches.

Try taking a yoga class in the evenings so you will sleep better at night and use a sauna for 10 minutes at least three days a week. Eating well and exercising are still important, but concentrate on sleeping, stretching and resting.

Exercise should consist of cardio coaching three to four days per week, weight training two to three days per week and yoga or Pilates one to two times a week.

At the end of four weeks, brides and grooms will feel great and be ready to face the world as a family — and one that maintains the new healthy routine through time.

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*Photo Courtesy of NOWWMagazine

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