A m a L a V i d a (Live Life, Love Life!)
Anniversary issue
Hottest trends in event design, catering, cakes and florals
Real Love Stories from couples like you
Presents the
2011 Wedding Showcase Intimate Boutique Bridal Event:
Newport Wedding Showcase
January 16, 2011 at the Hotel Viking
Featuring: * Bridal Salon with wedding professional booths.
* Silent Auction to benefit A Wish Come True * Invitation to Saturday Night Vendor
Networking Party to meet one on one with
* Couples Lounge * An all-day Strolling Fashion Show
and so much more!
Pre-order your tickets at LaBellaBride.com or call 401.946.0009
photo by main event weddings. model lealyn macalister provided by the beauty within
wedding professionals and/or stay overnight.
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kassie lafazia photography
kim praast photography
sara zarrella photography
kim praast photography
Table of Contents Design Ideas & Features
12 {Tabletops} A Little Taste of Everything
26 What Every Wedding Reception Must Have Planning and design tips
32 Planning a Wedding: A Year in the Life How one couple made their wedding special.
36 {Floral } Flowers are Forever 48 {Invitations} Simply Inviting 58 {Catering/Cakes} Nourishment for the Heart 78 {Fashion} The Allure of Classic Beauty
Extravagant to affordable honeymoon destinations
76 Little White Book 90 {La Bella Loves} Style Love Stories from Brides Like You!
8 Lindsay & Michael 30 Beth & J. 70 Lindsey & Eric 72 Jacqueline & Anthony 74 Casey & Shannon 94 Jennifer & Christopher
kim praast photography
54 {Honeymoon} As Unique as the Two of You
sara zarrella photography
Departments
a match made in heaven
Along a curve of the Connecticut coastline, with a clear view across the widest stretch of Long Island Sound, stands the Madison Beach Hotel, Connecticut’s only hotel, restaurant, banquet facility located directly on the beach.
T
he Madison Beach Hotel is Connecticut’s premier wedding destination, featuring a spacious banquet room with floor to ceiling french doors opening to beach side balconies. Our property offers 32 elegantly appointed waterfront rooms with private balconies, a luxurious spa and fitness center, and two beachfront restaurants.
94 West Wharf Road Madison, Connecticut 06443 www.madisonbeachhotel.com
203-245-1404
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Dear Reader, It’s our Fifth Year Anniversary issue! We offer a heartfelt thanks to the many couples who have stayed in contact since our launch. It is a joy hearing from you. We love sharing your milestones along the way. Also, a deep gratitude to our wonderful advertisers. Their innovative offerings and dedication to service give LaBella readers a one-of-a-kind means to create a truly individualized wedding. We can’t wait to see how they continue to innovate over the next five years. Since we are so thrilled with the prospects for the future, we are claiming the number Five as our lucky number for 2011! Why not? The number five worked for French fashion designer Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. In 1921, she chose the fifth day of the fifth month to introduce a then revolutionary new scent, Chanel No. 5. Recently at a photo shoot, I watched a stylist deliberately slice an apple the “wrong’ way. A five pointed-star emerged! And the wild rose bloom, so bountiful in summertime Newport, each has only five petals. For the past five years we’ve witnessed so many important trends. There’s been a return to silhouette bridal gowns, smaller, more meaningful number of bridal attendants, and simpler white cakes have replaced many of the brightly colored confections. We’ve also witnessed an increased use of organic, sustainable food sourced from local purveyors; many of the wines come from local regions. Couples are far more aware of the need to entertain guests with décor that uses a sensible ecological approach. The look of venues has changed, too. Couples are mixing it up more. Use of vineyards, lofts, and front lawns of vintage mansions are on the rise. For
sara zarrella photography
Letter from the Editor
high end, sophisticated evening receptions? Elegant hotels continue to trump other venues. Saturated color is back. 2011 offers a brighter celebration: violet, sangria red and celery. A whole range of wispy blues — from soft summery hydrangea to light aquamarine — are popular for summer weddings. This soft blue evokes being at the seashore, even if you’re city bound. The round table is mixed with other types of dining options. There are oblong tables, Tuscan style square tables with a smattering of high boys. Areas of some rooms will be elevated. Larger rooms may feature tall stools off to a side, so guest can survey the fun. And many receptions continue to offer lounge areas which provide the perfect respite: comfy sitting areas off to the side permit guests to mingle more. There’s no need to feel tied down by an assigned seat. So why not celebrate with us? We plan to manage our days even more judiciously than before. We expect to celebrate those small, meaningful moments that appear every day. And what to do when stress and pressure seem to mount? Do what we at LaBella Bride magazine plan to do: Live life. Love life. And don’t forget: Take five! Amore,
Katina LaFazia, Editor in Chief
Full service wedding planning Wedding day coordination Custom wedding design New England & destination weddings Specialize in assisting out-of-state couples
kc maheshwary photography
Dan Doke photography
Šeric laurits photography
lifefusion photography
Past President of the Boston Wedding Group & Member of the Association of Bridal Consultants, International Special Events Society & Better Business Bureau.
accredited bridal consultant
www.weddingsbyalexis.com alexis@weddingsbyalexis.com 617.833.5661 5
www.LaBellaBride.com
Steven J. LaFazia Publisher & Founder Katina Isabella LaFazia Editor In Chief & Founder R. Scott LaFazia Executive Editor Karen Bibo Office Management Coordinator Rachel Parisi Advertising Sales Associate Lindsey Aspinall Getz, Ann Petronio, Nayda Rondon, E. Bingo Wyer , Robin Watterson Contributing Writers Rachel Parisi, Kassie LaFazia Online Content Managers J. Hogue Senior Art Director Julie Clarke Associate Designer Highchair designhaus Website & Advertising Design R. Scott LaFazia Legal Counsel Please patronize the advertisers in this magazine. Without their support, the valuable service provided through this publication would not be available to you. Copyright 2011, All Rights Reserved. K LaFay Publishing, Inc. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced for any reason without written permission from the publisher. LaBella Bride Magazine does not make any representation about the quality of any products, services, information or the materials purchased via use of this publication. LaBella Bride Magazine accepts no responsibility for advertisers and printers errors. All submissions are published assuming that they are properly authorized to be published. Prices in editorial were quoted as estimates/averages only. Prices will vary according to individual design. Specific designers may elect not to disclose pricing. Your ideas and suggestions are always welcome. Please send them to: Publisher La Bella Bride Magazine 1635 Cranston Street Cranston, Rhode Island 02920 401.946.0009
Cover:
Photographer: Michelle Carpenter from Main Event Weddings Photography Assistant: Kassie Lafazia Photography Model: Lealyn MacAlister, provided by The Beauty Within Model Mgmt. Dress and shawl veil: Enzoani Blue, design Chester 2010, provided by Alexandra’s Bridal Boutique Hair & Makeup: Jen Burns from Brides on Location
Colophon:
Typefaces used in this publication: Eloquent Pro designed by Jukebox Type. Calluna and Museo, designed by Jos Buivenga at Exljbris. Gotham designed by Hoefler & Frere-Jones.
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�he� Now
A TIMELESS CL ASSIC
SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY
AND…
ProvidenceBiltmore.com / 401.455.3027 11 Dorrance St., Providence, RI 02904
LOVE STORY
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Lindsay & Michael New York City, New York
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}
October 24, 2009
ften sisters are close, and only 21 months separates 29 year-old Lindsay from her older sister, Lauren. The two spent early years in the St. Louis area and eventually the family moved to New Jersey and, as Lindsay explains,“We did nearly everything together growing up.” So when Lauren became engaged, excitement filled the Tabak household. Lindsay recalls, “I could not ask for a nicer, more perfect brother-in-law. Jason is terrific.” Jason did have one talent that the family did not necessarily count on. Apparently he was a polished matchmaker. “Every time our paths crossed, my future brother-in-law kept telling me how great his best friend was, suggesting. ‘You have to meet Mike Levin. He is the greatest friend. He’s so wonderful. You two will really hit it off.’” A few weeks before her sister’s wedding, Mike and Lindsay chatted, swapped some e-mails and, By E. Bingo Wyer
in an innocent manner, started a simple flirtation. “Mike was funny and would say the sort of humorous things that you had to react to.” So they instantly clicked, right? Well, yes. But then again, no. The Wednesday before her sister’s wedding, since the two were bridal party members, they finally met. Lindsay recalls, “I thought he was sweet. Really nice. A certain cuteness came out.” But, as one of life’s ironies revealed, in truth both Lindsay and Mike were in semi-serious relationships with others. As nice as Mike was, neither Lindsay nor Mike was available to date one another. But matchmaker Jason was a patient sort. He simply waited for the predictable change of events and alerted Mike, who was then available, that Lindsay, too, was fancy free. Lindsay and Mike began dating in the fall. By Valentine’s Day, the two were off for a romantic threeday cruise to Key West. In one way,
the courtship was a whirlwind. Yet in another sense, it wasn’t too fast paced. Reception Site: Cipriani Wall Street Lindsay explains, “When cipriani.com/locations/new-york/ you’re in love, a deep, true love, time need not be Photographer: Images by Berit crucial.” imagesbyberit.com By that summer, Mike and Lindsay were engaged. Event Planner: Classic Events Design “His birthday is in July and classeventdesignsli.com I took him out to dinner. It seemed a simple enough Florist/Decor: Design Fusion way to celebrate a birthdesignfusionNYC.com day.” Lindsay had no idea that Mike’s parents had Videographer: Open Eye Media decorated the apartment. openeyedocumentary.com Beautiful candles, flowers and a cake greeted them as Cake: Lulu's Cake Boutique they walked through the sweetsbylulu.com door. On a nearby table rested a photo album of Music: R. Harris Lane Orchestra their courtship which Mike hanklane.com had created. “There’s even a photo of Mike dancing with my sister and he told me he knew at that time that he was dancing with 9
LOVE STORY
his future sister-in-law.” Mike pulled the ring out from under the couch. “I knew something was up and it was thrilling.” They called both sets of parents close to midnight. Since Lindsay wanted a New York City wedding, Cipriani’s Wall Street proved to be the perfect venue. Lindsay gives her mother much credit for the endless details and follow-through that made the celebration so successful. “She was constantly on the phone and did it all,” Lindsay confesses. Her Mother worked seamlessly with the talented event designer Jerry Sibal, founder of Design Fusion, who also did Lauren’s wedding. For the occasion, Lindsay chose a pristine white aesthetic, which was enhanced by a luxurious use of silver
and crystal. Against the evening’s candlelight, the transformed venue endlessly sparkled for the 300 guests. The inspiration for chuppa, in the center of the ball room — a first for Cipriani’s — was two rings, all crystal and intertwined, surrounded by strung crystal, draped and completely dazzling for drama. Guests sat in a semi-circle, and the band played Bryan Adams’ “Everything I Do, I Do For You.” Down the aisle, the rabbis walked first, then grandparents, groom’s parents, followed by 14 bridal party members. Lindsay’s parents escorted her down the aisle; her bouquet was orchids and calla lilies. For the cocktail hour, the chuppa was removed and when dinner was served, three styles of centerpieces, all harmoniously drawn from a simi-
lar design, created an artistic backdrop. As a surprise from her parents, the new couple marveled as their initials floated on the dance floor in radiant light. And since the couple truly loves cheesecake, they chose five or so designs of mini cheesecakes for the guests, which everyone remarked was a wonderful alternative to the traditional layer wedding cake. Lindsay sums up the evening, “Everyone says a wedding day flies by so fast,” she recalls, adding, “It’s so true! The evening raced by. But we stopped to savor the moments.” In the end, while the evening may have appeared to be fleeting, Lindsay adds, “I was with everyone I love and care about. In that way, our wedding day remains the absolute best day of my life.”
tabletops
A Little
rustic elegant Victorian eco-conscious Zen beachy formal provincial casual relaxed ethnic striped c
S
mall garlands, paper lanterns or lofty feathers easily intermingle with floral centerpieces. The trick? Don't overdo your dÊcor, keep it simple. In 2011, the one rule to guide you through the design process is: Less is more! Not every element on the table must be embellished. Place an orchid atop a napkin, no need for ribbon. If you wish to evoke the seashore, then scatter a few shells, say, no more than five, close to your centerpiece. Cluster your elements rather than spacing them individually. Votives? Nine on a table is a perfect amount, in clusters of three. Or try one cluster of four, the other five. Always create a dining experience that is comfortable, not crowded. While small props continue to enchant guests throughout the wedding, nothing should overwhelm their ability to enjoy the scene. Keep their view unobstructed. Let the table breathe. In sum, whatever you choose, be sure to infuse your tables with simplicity — and your sense of style. You'll see a full range on these pages from beach casual to English garden elegant. The goal this year is to aim for a certain magic.
Planned To Perfection
Photo: Main Event Weddings rentals: Rentals Unlimited
Flowers: Conceptual Image Design Location: The Aldrich Mansion
Gorgeous iridescent crushed linen completed with silver chivari chairs. Dinnerware is gold beaded glass charger with silver-rim dinner plate. Dendrobium orchids fill this arrangement as well as peonies, sweet peas and cymbidium orchids. $1050
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By E. Bingo Wyer
Taste of Everything‌
country bold personal tropical cozy modern rustic elegant Victorian eco-conscious Zen beachy formal
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tabletops
Stems
Photo: Main Event Weddings
Location: The Aldrich Mansion Rentals: Rentals Unlimited
Spring garden dinner party tabletop for 12. Anemones, lilac, Solomon’s seat, hyacinth, assorted fruits, moss, stock and trees. $1500
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Orchids-n-Blooms
Photo: Main Event Weddings
Location: The Aldrich Mansion Rentals: Rentals Unlimited
Tablescape of lush topiary featuring deep violet carnations, pink jaguar mokaras, dendrobium orchids and a base of mint julep hydrangeas. Crushed taffeta linen in black, with an amethyst twilight satin napkin, completed with pebble glass charger plates and clear mirage chair seating. $1500
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tabletops
Rose Petals and Lace location: The Palace
White Peacock resting on a bed of white carnations sprinkled with crystals under a Manzanita branch with white handing pomander balls accented with crystal elements. $550
Blooming Blossoms
Photo: Main Event Weddings
Location: The Aldrich Mansion Rentals: Rentals Unlimited
Glass pedestal bowl, white hydrangeas, black lily of the valley, sweet pea, hyacinth roses, and freesia-napkins with calla blooms. $250
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lighting makes a great venue
give your wedding day E x c l usive in- house light ing d e s i g n e r t o The Ocean House
spectacular
the look
it deserves
We specialize in making your dreams come to life — be it simple and intimate, soft ambient lighting or a spectacular light show with fun themes
sO mE OF Our FAVO riTE lOCATi Ons Bloomingdales
Over 25 years of creating fabulous & spectacular wedding lighting
misquamicut Club newpor t Ar t museum ne wpor t Yat ching Cent er Belcour t Cast le Main photo: Michelle carpenter
lo o k to o u r websit e f or many mor e
Visit our new website for more images at w w w. Ja c k Fa l v e y A s s o c i a t e s . c o m Contact us for a free lighting consultation and design plan.
] p: 401.294.0228
m: 401.741.9477
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dfalvey@jackfalveyassociates.com
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tabletops
Sixpence for Your Shoe
photos: Sara Zarrella Photography
floral: Just For You Floral Design Studio Linen: Wildflower Linens
Rentals: Party Rental Limited
Multiple heightened abundant blooms of hydrangea, orchids and garden roses sitting on a variety of shapely tall and low mercury glass containers amidst jewel-accented candle holders grace a layering of aloe-colored runners and an Irish linen. Softly draped champagne chair covers, green patterned china, tinted stemware, and a hemp napkin ring adorned with broach detail add a natural yet glamorous accent to the overall table design. $1200
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Golden Gate Studio
Photo: Main Event Weddings
Location: The Aldrich Mansion Rentals: Rentals Unlimited
Large white callas, white cymbidium orchids, green hydrangea, curly willow and white roses. $350
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tabletops
Sixpence for Your Shoe
photos: Sara Zarrella Photography
floral: Just For You Floral Design Studio location: Madison Beach Hotel rentals: Party Rental Limited
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Nautically inspired with a touch of whimsy: royal blue- and white-striped linen, golden yellow chargers, cranberry-splashed champagne and polka dot accents. Varied height arrangements in rich primary colors atop banana-leaf-lined glass cylinders surround a large arrangement of soft sand, driftwood and windblown sea grasses. $900
ultima photography & video james hazelwood photography
Private Estate Masterpiece Architecture On-Site Catholic Chapel Panoramic Waterview European Chef
836 Warwick Neck Avenue, Warwick, Rhode Island | aldrichmansion.com | (401) 739-6850
tabletops Unique Weddings By Alexis Photo: Main Event Weddings
floral: Jeri Solomon Floral Design Location: The Aldrich Mansion rentals: Rentals Unlimited
Variations of purple tones with calla lilies, tulips, cymbidium orchids and chrysanthemums. Clusters of vessels, flowers and contrasting green grasses. Delicate embroidered lines in the tablecloths, flocked votives and varying shades of purple, black and frosted glass finish the look. $800
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Your special day deserves an equally special setting.
Photo by Jeff Turner Photography
At the Omni Parker House, we personally assist each couple in creating a celebration that reflects a style and beauty all their own. With our historic downtown location, extravagant rooftop ballroom, savory culinary creations and lavishly appointed accommodations, the only piece missing is you. For more information, please call 617-227-8600 or visit omniparkerhouse.com.
60 School Street, Boston, MA 02108 I 617-227-8600 I omniparkerhouse.com Š 2010 Omni Hotels & Resorts
tabletops
Planned To Perfection
Photo: Main Event Weddings
Flowers: Conceptual Image Design Rentals: Rentals Unlimited
Location: The Aldrich Mansion
Miami-themed table with Bahama blues and a white-feathered centerpiece adorned with hydrangea and rose. $950
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feature
Two Necessities:
sabrina scolari
What Every Wedding Reception Must Have
Y
ou might think a wedding only needs two things: Bride and Groom. Technically that’s correct, however, in 2011, apart from a welcoming venue, great food and wine, and the best music to reflect your idea of a memorable time, every couple really might consider adding two other necessities. The two “must haves” are cutting edge rentals and magical lighting. You can easily add your distinctive signature—and reward guests with a truly memorable celebration. Here’s what we learned.
person + killian photography
main event weddings
R enta l s
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While some regional caterers and a few venues may offer basic place setting and stemware along with other standard stock such as white table cloths, many venues and exciting spaces require couples to “import” linens, chairs and place settings. The reason is simple: Venues and large caterers are not in a position to warehouse vast rental supplies — keeping inventory ahead of design trends — in order to transform the space according to each couple’s vision. You need a specialist, and that’s where a top rental company can save you money and give you the best décor possible. The latest in table tops — from lush tapestries and glittering gold chargers to Tuscan-styled tables — are sourced by trend-spotting rental experts who can help create the wedding you’ve been dreaming of. To create a signature look, Desiree Modano, director of marketing for Rentals Unlimited, Stoughton, Mass., suggests avoiding the standard stock across major choices. But won’t this drive costs up? Not necessarily. According to Modano, “Simply choose one top-tier element and work around that look. Make that one choice your design focus. A beautiful taffeta cloth can reflect light.” Or choose exciting stemware, gold-embellished china, offset by a gold charger. “Even 100-percent linen has a remarkable look and feel,” according to Modano, who adds that dressy looks still prevail for evening weddings — iridescent and textured fabrics, multiple layers and floor-length drops are in demand, along with coordinating accents on chairs. Cushions, for instance, can contrast with the table or be chosen from a slightly lighter or darker similar shade; not everything necessarily needs to match. Most décor experts suggest mixing it up. If you’re offering food stations, use a variety of plates. Square plates, too, are popular for 2011.
By E. Bingo Wyer
www.kimpraastphotography.com 4 0 1 . 9 9 6 . 8 8 7 7
By Ann Petronio
perfect surroundings
sabrina scolari
feature
Today a professional lighting expert may be as important as your floral designer. In fact, many top floral designers now insist that lighting accompany certain types of floral designs. How so? According to Deborah Falvey, President of Jack Falvey Associates, with offices in Rhode Island and Boston, “Certain designs in a wide variety of venues are lost unless they’re lit.” Other lighting designers agree, explaining how rich red hues, for instance, often require extra lighting because they inherently do not reflect the room’s ambient light. Without a pin spot, vibrant reds can vanish. Falvey explains, “Red has a way of absorbing regular room lighting. You really need a pin spot so the red reflects its color. Especially elevated red centerpieces. Without a pin spot, they fade away in the upper darkness.” Sienna brown, often a popular color accented with a brighter color, can make certain décor appear muddy in photographs. Tents, as well, with their long Another trend is to elevate seating around the circumference of swags of white, can be deadly for evening receptions the dining reception area. “This is popular with younger crowds,” unless some up-lighting with rotating hues is used. adds Modano. Elevation can mean sleek high party stools. In some “In photographs,” Falvey explains, “complexions can look ghostly against a sea of white and poor lighting cases, a circle of risers at the outer rim can create an up-sweep view. Elevation offers guests on the outer edge a sense of inclusion, that creates facial shadows. That’s why peach tones are popular. All guests look better!” With crystal chandeliers rather than feeling banished. She adds, “You can see better from in a white tent, Falvey explains how soft lime green has the outer area when seating is elevated.” emerged as a surprising new choice. “The folds gather In order to make the most of your rental consultation, be sure more color and a gentle lime can heighten the crystal to explore what creative options resonate with your aesthetic. chandeliers,” offers Falvey, adding, “The crystals look like Do your homework. Take a few weeks to check out websites and dazzling diamonds when done right.” build an inspiration board — images, swatches of design, any Many of the nation’s top wedding planners concur visual which will help convey elements you like. Allow at least an that lighting is the single best way to transform any hour for your consultation; most run longer. Establish a budget venue from ordinary to extraordinary. And now the before you meet with your rental consultant. If unsure, when you consensus is in: LED lighting is the way to go in 2011. set up your appointment, ask for some approximate ranges. Be aware of regional cost variables. In some areas rentals may average (LED stands for light emitting diode, which translates to very little heat being emitted and less power to run.) an affordable $10 per person; in larger more sophisticated areas, notably the large cities, good rental basics can begin at $40-50 per With many couples seeking to design with eco conperson. No matter your choice, with a true rental consultant you’ll siderations, LED lighting is the most popular. Equally enjoy the flexibility that true creative choices bring to the process. important, LED offers a more vibrant color palette than traditional gel lighting. As technology improves, battery-operated LED lights Bright I de as are increasingly popular since they can be small and As the importance of a unique wedding theme seems to trump all unobtrusive. Without heavy wires and electrical taping, other creative decisions, increasingly the need for innovative prothe venue simply looks more magical with battery operfessional lighting becomes a requisite. In this case, lighting does ated LED up-lights. Ice sculptures sparkle and don’t melt not equate to a mere cluster of votives at each guest table; it does as quickly. not imply hurricane lamps in a fireplace hearth. Instead, think of Setting the right mood and look for your reception or high-end theatrical lighting, the type that washes stone walls with party is one of the last touches to any amazing wedding. a summer eve’s pale blue hue. The type that creates stars on the Lighting may be just the extra you’ll want to create a roof of a tent. Lighting, too, is a way that couples initials seem to wonderful atmosphere for your formal reception. miraculously anchor the center of the dance floor.
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I
ndependence Harbor A 20 Acre Private Estate, Unequalled in Beauty, Reserved Exclusively for Your Wedding “one of southern New england’s Most sought after destinations for wedding receptions and Garden ceremonies”
Acclaimed Cuisine, Celebrated Service, Renowned Wedding Planning, Affordable Elegance For Gatherings of 100 to 250 Persons
10 N ar rows roa d , as s o Ne t, Ma s s ac h us e t ts 0 2 7 0 2 “c lose to BostoN aN d Prov i d e Nc e , But M i l e s away f ro M th e o rd i Na ry” 1-8 0 0 -2 8 7 -8 3 0 0 • 1 -5 0 8 -6 4 4 -2 2 2 5
w w w. i h w e d d i n g s . c o m
LOVE STORY
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Beth & J. Pawtucket, Rhode Island
It
}
June 12, 2010
was a mutual friend's birthday barbeque that brought Beth and J. together. Neither of them expected to meet their future life partner, but they both knew there was something in the air and it wasn't just the food, the drinks or the weather. “Once we started talking, I didn't notice anyone else all night,” Beth says. J. remembers that night, too. “I was surprised to get some signals that she was interested, as we had only just met and there is eight years between us. I quickly decided not to let those preconceptions get in the way, though.” Five years later on the same date in July, J. proposed. A quiet evening at home turned out to be quite surprising for the bride-to-be. The ring was a classic Tiffany setting and she loved it. “So simple and elegant. I really didn't know what kind of ring I would like, but J. picked perfectly.” The couple knows many people in the wedding industry, or related creative fields, and so plans for the simple ceremony started to come together with a little help from friends. “Jack Falvey Associates was our lynch pin,” J. says. “Jack and By Katina LaFazia
Deb really helped bring everything together and were not afraid when we started thinking outside of the box.” The choice of the Pawtucket Armory as a location for the reception is an unusual one, but the couple felt that the industrial feel of the city and venue fit them perfectly. “The Falveys really transformed a raw space into a classy party venue.” The large space ended up being an asset when the weather turned gray. “We wanted to have our ceremony down the street, in front of the waterfall at the historic Slater Mill. Unfortunately, the weather just didn’t cooperate,” Beth says. Instead, with a few well-placed curtains to deliniate the space, the Armory hosted both the cermony and the reception. “It ended up being a great thing… guests seamlessly went from ceremony to party and it all went so smoothly in the end,” says J. Tom’s Market helped the couple decide on the perfect culinary experience. The couple wanted a lot of great food with a casual presentation that would keep guests mingling. Glenn Place at Tom’s Market put together an eclectic menu of 15 filling
hors d’ouevres – options like miniburger sliders with bourbon ketchup, California rolls, Indian pakoras, crab cakes, pulled pork in phyllo pastry shells topped with coleslaw and more. “The guests Reception Site: loved the variety,” says J. Pawtucket Armory Center “The Tom’s Market staff for the Arts made sure everyone had armoryartsri.org plenty to eat as they made Lighting & Event Design: Jack Falvey Associates the rounds. We couldn’t jackfalveyassociates.com have been happier.” Caterers: Of course, one of the Tom's Market highlights of the party was tomsmarket.com the music. J. says, “We knew The Cupcakerie thecupcakerie.net my friend Johnny would Photographers: make a perfect DJ for the Peter Reinhard event, since his bar appearpetereinhard.com ances are popular with RI Photobooths riphotobooths.com our friends and family. He Music: plays a great assortment of Johnny “The Colonel” Maguire ‘Greasy Grooves’ – lounge, jazz, blues, rock-a-billy, soul, 401-595-0367 Libations: and more – and kept the The Pour People guests moving all night.” “In the end, we created exactly what we wanted,” says Beth. “The wedding was simple, personal, and affordable, and I think all our guests had a great time. Who could ask for more?” 31
feature
Planning A Wedding A Year In The Planning Life of Bride and Groom Erik & Kendra
By: Robin Watterson
May – June 2009 Erik proposed to Kendra on his birthday! As mother of the groom, I am so thrilled! He took her on a hike and picnic to the top of a mountain and found the perfect spot. So romantic! That night we all celebrated at a favorite restaurant. The fairy tale begins… August 7, 2010 is the set date! They asked me to help them plan their wedding. Of course, I was thrilled! I hosted an engagement party for the families to have an opportunity to meet each other.
halter-style, pure white dress with a sweetheart neckline and ruching at the waist. Gorgeous! After touring The Squantum Association the bride and groom felt it met all of their criteria — a venue on the water with a ceremony site on the property and separate buildings for the cocktail and formal receptions. “I’m so glad we’ve decided to have everything at one location, but in separate spaces. We’ll be able to create a different look and feel for each part of our wedding,” Kendra beamed.
July – August 2009 While Kendra’s mother, Linda, was visiting from California, we decided to have a wedding dress shopping day. Kendra chose a Casablanca
September – October 2009 We started to have dinner meetings once a month to discuss all the details. Cobalt, kiwi and white were the colors chosen. Seasonal flowers
Photos by Kim Praast Photography
of hydrangea, roses, calla lilies, and hypericum berries will provide the perfect centerpieces. After finalizing the guest list, the count would settle somewhere between 105 and 110 guests. We’ll be using round and square tables with white floor-length linen and fruitwood chiavari chairs to compliment the hardwood floors. Rentals Unlimited has a fabulous selection of rental decor and I’ll be working with them for everything we will need.
local oysters, beef, chicken and vegetable kabob grill stations and a “Key West Kiss” signature cocktail. Turquoise, chartreuse and melon are the colors!
January – February 2010 Keeping everyone focused on the contracts, scheduling and the month to month review meetings has kept everyone pretty stress-free! Erin, my daughter, planned the bachelorette party for June 19th with the help of the bridesmaids. I offered to host a “Latin Fusion”-themed dinner November – December 2009 We reserved the Providence Biltmore party, complete with a Salsa dance instructor to kick off the weekend! Terrace for the rehearsal dinner. It will be a “Key West – Summer In The Individual colored glass vases will serve as place markers filled with City Soiree,” complete with orchids, bright gerber daisies, and colorful both as centerpieces for the tables pashmina shawls for favors. Saturday and hair accessories for the women in attendance. The menu will feature morning they’ll drive to York, Maine, By Ann Petronio
to take a cooking class at Stonewall Kitchens. March – April 2010 The J. Crew bridesmaids dresses are cotton candy, navy dresses in various styles. Suits for the groom and groomsman are three-button, stone cotton twill from the J. Crew Outlet. Navy blue ties and pocket squares will complete the classic look. May – June 2010 Erik and Kendra submitted their fantastic playlist to the DJ. Erik designed a shamrock-bordered, monogram stencil for the Gobo light, which Jack Falvey Productions will create for the dance floor. Personal details add so much to a wedding!
33
feature
July – August 2010 The theme for the bridal shower was inspired by the film “Breakfast At Tiffany’s.” Besides loving the movie, Erik had given Kendra a Tiffany heart necklace and Tiffany pearl earrings during their courtship. The University Club was the perfect venue. I rented white and black orleans print, sheer organza linen over white bridal satin linen accented with Tiffany-blue napkins. I found a vintage mannequin and designed a tissue paper wedding dress embellished with a Tiffanyblue ribbon. The pastry chef made a beautiful Tiffany box cake! I also partnered with Dress For Success, requesting guests bring an accessory item to be donated. Nicole, one of Kendra’s best friends said, “The whole shower was an absolutely beautiful experience. I was overcome with emotion when I entered the dining room. You could feel the love and support the two families had for Kendra and Erik.” 34
Wedding Day - August 7, 2010 The weather is gorgeous! Handpainted barn-wood signs guided guests down the road to the wedding. They were then greeted by a vintage pick-up truck lemonade and water refreshment stand filled with wildflowers. The bride carried a hand-tied bouquet of mini-calla lilies. The bridesmaids bouquets were green and white hydrangeas, jade roses and hypericum berries tied with kiwi silk ribbon. The ceremony, led by Reverand Boyle, was charming and heartfelt. Kendra recalled, “Before our wedding, everyone kept telling me to take a step back and take it all in. What I do remember most is Erik’s face and the way he looked at me. I felt so much love and gratitude in that moment.” The reception featured an instant camera at a weathered shutter photo booth complete with props! Tables were draped with white and kiwi bengaline silk linens. Blue glass chargers, cobalt blue water glasses and green and white hydrangea centerpieces surrounded by cube vases of cymbidium orchids and moss created the dramatic tabletops. With DJ music inside and an Irish duet playing on the outdoor deck, there was music for everyone’s taste. Kendra’s mother noted, “The elegance devoted to every intimate detail made each guest feel special.” Erik added, “I think going into a wedding you expect to have a good time and be part of a beautiful event. We were lucky… our wedding was more than I could have imagined.” The joyous memories will stay with us forever…
Let Celebeautique treat you like Newport Royalty and be the hostess of the Beauty Party your family and friends will be talking about for years to come! Whether you would like to receive services at the venue of your choice or in the salon, you’ll relax knowing you’ve engaged the most knowledgeable professionals available for all your beauty needs. You deserve the very best on the most important day of your life. Ask us about in-salon and on-site bridal parties, and let Celebeautique Hairspa and Salon create your own Bridal Beautique Retreat! Celebeautique Hairspa & Salon 136 Thames Street, Suite 2 Newport, RI 02840 401-VIP-REPS (847-7377)
www.celebeautique.com weddings@celebeautique.com
floral
Golden Gate Studio
photo: Main Event Weddings
location: The Aldrich Mansion
“Pretty in Pink� pink mini callas, peonies, nerines, Dutch tulips, and pink sweet pods. $190
36
Flowers
are Forever W
hile single primarycolored bouquets remain popular choices — the monochromatic palette is likely to remain the classic choice, no matter the year — this year introduces the delicate mixed color palette for personals and bridal bouquets. And one new favorite hue is pale baby blue. The new shade is best represented by small delicate flowers such as tweedi, tiny muscari, or single delphinium blooms hand-wired, but slightly larger blooms such as anenomes or dots of hydrangea can achieve the delicacy this blue requires. Baby blue works well with a delicate cream or a contrasting shade of lavender, even blushing pinks or deeper fuschia.
Blooming Blossoms
photo: Main Event Weddings
location: The Aldrich Mansion
Black calla lilies, lavender sweet pea, lavender roses, pink cymbidium orchids, rex begonia leaves. $165
By E. Bingo Wyer
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floral
clockwise from top left:
Just For You Floral Design Studio Photo: Sara Zarrella Photography Location: Madison Beach Hotel
“Patience” garden roses, blushing bride protea, eucharist lilies and white scabiosa finished in white silk ribbon with soft green velvet accent. $250
Emily Herzig Floral Studio
photo: Rodeo & Co. Photography
Pink parrot tulips and pink French ranunculus framed with silver dusty miller. $150
Just For You Floral Design Studio
Red dahlias, thornless red raspberries, ornithogalim, garden roses and red monarda finished in lace. $200
Just For You Floral Design Studio photo: Sara Zarrella Photography location: Madison Beach Hotel
“Darcy” garden roses with pink sweet pea finished in a navy ribbon with navy birdcage netting. $235 38
Clockwise from left:
Just For You Floral Design
Photo: Sara Zarrella Photography Location: Madison Beach Hotel
Red freesias, burnt orange dahlias, miniature green brunia berries and red ranunlus finished in a cream- and green-striped grosgrain ribbon. $175
Stems
Photo: Main Event Weddings
Location: The Aldrich Mansion
Rose brooch bouquet of garden roses, viburnum, lilac, muscari and assorted antique brooches. $175
Golden Gate Studio
photo: Kim Praast Photography
Gentleman’s boutonniere of white hydrangea florets and green hypericum berry. $10
Rose Petals And Lace
photo: Andrew Reilly Photography location: Crystal Springs Resorts
Round hand-tied bouquet of white garden roses, white akito roses, white lisianthus and white freesia with touches of dusty miller, wrapped with ti leaf and tied with raffia. $215
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floral
Emily Herzig Floral Studio
photo: Rodeo & Co. Photography
right: Dutch blue hydrangea, French ranunculus, garden roses, “Patients,� pussy willow and hostas leaves. $150
below: Peonies, garden roses, sweet peas, lilac and dusty miller compactly gathered with strands of strung hyacinth blossoms. $250
Blooming Blossoms
photo: Main Event Weddings
location: The Aldrich Mansion
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Pink peonies, runnueles, pink freesia, pink cymbidium, cream roses and dark purple pansies. $165
floral
Rose Petals And Lace
photo: Andrew Reilly Photography location: Crystal Springs Resort
Round hand-tied bouquet of green hydrangea with old strike yellow roses and deep purple dahlias wrapped with ti leaf and raffia. $95
Rose Petals And Lace
Rose Petals And Lace
Location: Clarks Landing
location: The Liberty House
photo: Dinofaphotography
above: Round hand-tied bouquet of green hydrangea, orange unique roses, orange dahlias, white lisianthus and green zinnias wrapped with white satin. $200 42
photo: Dinofaphotography
right: Round hand-tied bouquet of attache hot pink roses, orange unique roses, pink calla lilies aorange mokara orchids, accented with green cymbidium orchids and a full rhinestone band. $275
DEP Event Design
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
left: Grooms boutonniere with accents of seeded and willow eucalyptus. $12 below: Mini calla lily clutch bouquet with a frame of willow eucalyptus. $350
specializing in weddings and event design throughout new england
www.ehfloral.com • 603.444.7600 43
floral
clockwise from left:
Emily Herzig Floral Studio
photo: Rodeo & Co. Photography
Yellow ranunculus surrounded by fragrant lily of the valley and silver dusty miller wrapped in gold dupioni silk ribbon. $200
Golden Gate Studio
photo: Main Event Weddings
location: The Aldrich Mansion
White miniature callas, green cymbidium orchids, helleborum, lily of the valley, white peonies, curly willow and white freesia. $200
Emily Herzig Floral Studio
photo: Rodeo & Co. Photography
Hand-tied bouquet of large scarlet peonies, dark purple sweet peas, “pink finesse” roses, viburnum and lady’s mantle with bush ivy frame. $125
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Photo: Main Event Weddings
PHOTO BY STUDIO 1923
Orchids-N-Blooms
Location: The Aldrich Mansion
below: Composite design of blue delphinium, purple fancy carnation, eryngium dendrobium orchids and chocolate mini callas. $150 bottom: Blue hydrangea, green thistle, solidago and dolce vita roses with a quarter collar of ti leaf and lily grass. $160
Passion for beauty and artistry combined with personal service has become our trademark
Serving NJ & tri-state area
732.613.0053
www.RosePetalsandLace.com
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floral
Stems
Photo: Main Event Weddings
Location: The Aldrich Mansion
Spring garden bouquet with ranunculus, fiddlehead fern, painted fern, epimedium, lilac moss and ribbon-covered handle. $100
Blooming Blossoms
photo: Main Event Weddings
location: The Aldrich Mansion
White callas, cream freesia, runnueles, white freesia, lily of the valley, lisianthus, tuberose and roses. $180
photo by LesLie Dumke
Diane Gaudett Custom Floral Designs
(203) 426-5949 www.dianegaudett.com
invitations & favors
clockwise from left:
Papermoon
photo: Main Event Weddings
A very elegant and classic look with cream bow includes invitations and responses. $668 for 100
Paper Moss
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
Custom-designed, two-color, flatprinted invite suite includes invite, envelope, RSVP postcard, burlap and twine belly band. $1735 for 100
Paper Moss
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
Custom-designed, two color, flatprinted invite suite includes invite, specialty-colored envelope, RSVP postcard and belly band. $1925 for 100
Simply
Papermoon
photo: Main Event Weddings
A wine bottle motif with glitter, ribbon and tag. $2.25 each
Inviting‌ 48
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invitations & favors
Papermoon
photo: Main Event Weddings
A wedding invitation with magenta liner and gold monogram design with black font includes invitations and responses. $528 for 100
Papermoon
photo: Main Event Weddings
right: Dressed-up handkerchiefs by Ganz. Embroidered handkerchiefs, a great gift for bride or bridesmaid. $8.95
Papermoon
photo: Main Event Weddings
far right: A brown and berry stitched flower invitation, great for bridal shower or birthday. $854 for 100 invitations with responses
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Paper Moss
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
above: Custom-designed one-color, letterpress invite suite includes invite, specialty-colored envelope, RSVP postcard and reception card. $2325 for 100
Papermoon
photo: Main Event Weddings
left: William Arthur black and ivory wedding invitation with black lining and ribbon. $460 for 100 invitations and responses
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invitations & favors
clockwise from left:
Papermoon
photo: Main Event Weddings
Timber pear candle by Varee Kitira. Decorative pear-shaped candles in white, cream and green. $13
Papermoon
photo: Main Event Weddings
Girls Night: For bachelorette parties, birthdays and get-togethers. A fun and sassy game. $8.95 Truth or Dare: A cool new spin on an old game, including cards and a spinner. $19.95 Slumber Party: Fifty-two questions to ask your friend; a groovy gab game. $19.95
Rhode Island Soap Works
Non-foaming and completely dissolving Fizzy Salts. Seven fragrances, including Stress Relief, Tranquility, Ocean Breeze and Lavender. Personalization is available as are quantity discounts. $6.75 each
Paper Moss
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
Custom-designed, one-color letterpress save the date includes envelope. $975 for 100
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Save the Date • Invitations • Programs • Seating Scrolls • Place Cards • Notes • Menus
Paper Moon Invitations 995 Oaklawn Avenue • Cranston, RI 02920
401-943-1123
M - F 10 a m - 5 :3 0 p m We d 10 a m - 7p m Sat 1 0 am - 4pm evening appointments available w w w .p a p e rm o o n s t a t io n er y. com
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S H OW E R S / B I RT H D AY S / W E D D I N G S
So many times we have been asked by brides-to-be if we have wedding favors for their guests, in lieu of the traditional favors that most forget about as soon as they return home. Well now we do! Vısit www.awish.org or call (401) 781-9199 A WISH COME TRUE is Rhode Island and SE Massachusetts oldest
wish-granting organization, granting wishes to medically-qualified children age 3 through 18 who suffer from life-threatening illnesses.
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honeymoon
As Key West, FL Nantucket Island, MA
as New Orleans, LA
the Two of You If
you spend any time speaking with other engaged couples, or interacting on honeymoon-related blogs, you’ll hear lots of talk about the big all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean… and there’s certainly a market for them. But what if you are looking for a destination with some real local color? Or a hotel with an interesting history and unique charm? Well, we’ve got some suggestions that will be right up your alley. And they’re all right here within the United States — so there’s no need for a passport! First on the list is New Orleans. With a sultry, romantic atmosphere that’s just perfect for honeymooners, New Orleans offers an intoxicating mixture of gourmet cuisine, bustling night life, and fascinating history…along with a dash of voodoo mystery. You can spend your days browsing the shops and galleries along Magazine Street, riding the St. Charles Avenue streetcar, touring historic homes and plantations, or getting outside to golf, fish, bike, and more. In the evenings, the city comes alive with restaurants and clubs. A night in the French Quarter can include cocktails in a quiet, secluded courtyard and a show-stopping gourmet dinner complete with the requisite Bananas Foster flambé. Afterwards, you can find an intimate table for two in a dimly-lit jazz club, or maybe visit one of the casinos to try your luck at the tables. If you’re heading to the Big Easy, there are some uniquely New Orleans experiences that any visit should include. Many are food-related (coffee and beignets at Café du Monde, a jazz brunch, sipping a Hurricane at Pat O’Brien’s), but others revolve around the city’s history (a plantation tour, a riverboat cruise), spirituality (ghost/spirit tours), and resilience in the face of adversity (Katrina tours, and volun-tourism opportunities). —►
By Ann Petronio
55
honeymoon
A beach-front tight rope walker entertains a crowd in Key West
56
be filled with revelers. If not, you can join like-minded visitors on a Key West Pub Crawl. When it comes to accommodations, the options include well-known resort chains, boutique hotels and lovely little inns and B&Bs. Historic Key West Inns is a collection of five small inns in Old Town within walking distance of the shopping and nightlife. All are historic buildings with traditional Key West architecture (open porches, picket fences, tin roofs), but each property is unique and there’s a range to fit any budget. Of the five properties, honeymooners might gravitate towards the Lighthouse Court (one block off Duval Street, with a tropical courtyard and pool bar) or the Albury Court (near the harbor, with romantic fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs As far as where to stay, you can’t go wrong with the and a honeymoon suite), but any of the inns would make Inn on Bourbon. Right in the center of the action in the French Quarter with balconies overlooking Bourbon a great home base from which to explore the Keys. Or, for a dose of 19th century history and Americana Street, the inn is built on the site of America’s first opera along with beaches galore, can we suggest Nantucket? house (dating to 1859). The original historic building burned down in 1919, but the inn still captures the hisThis tiny island thirty miles off the coast of Cape Cod tory and charm of the era – with all the modern ameniwas once the whaling capital of the world and has always ties any honeymooners would want, including a tropical been a popular vacation spot for wealthy East Coast courtyard and pool, fitness center, WiFi, flatscreen TVs families, but it has lots to offer honeymooners as well. It and more. starts with the scenery, which includes rolling hills dotIf you are looking for a more tropical flavor for your ted with windmills and lighthouses, and miles and miles honeymoon, how about Key West? The quirky “Conch of pristine beaches. If that’s not enough, Nantucket Republic” offers a laid-back, anything-goes atmosphere offers cobblestone streets, rose-covered cottages and a beautiful harbor filled with gently bobbing boats. You with a distinctive Spanish/Caribbean flair. Located can pack a picnic lunch and explore the island by bicycle, at the southernmost tip of the continental U.S. (less pick a secluded beach to call your own, or stroll through than 90 miles from Cuba), Key West is well worth the journey (whether by plane, boat, or a leisurely 3-4 hour town window shopping at art galleries and high-end boutiques. And if you are “foodies,” this is the spot for drive from Miami). Aside from the usual “beachy” you! You can dine at a different gourmet restaurant pursuits, it offers beautiful palm-lined streets with every night and never run out of options. One of our gingerbread mansions, lavishly blooming gardens and historical treasures like the 1860 African Burial Ground favorites is American Seasons, with its locally-sourced and the Hemingway House and Museum. Hot, sunny menu created by award-winning chef Michael LaScola days can be spent swimming with the dolphins, playand a wine list of all-American selections put together by ing a round of golf, or enjoying a catamaran sail to the wife and sommelier Orla Murphy-LaScola. Dry Tortugas. For a break from the sun, pop into the Wondering where to stay? How about an historic 1770 Pirate Museum, visit some of the many art galleries and whaling captain’s home that has been turned into a boutiques, or enjoy the Conch Train (a narrated trolboutique-style inn? The Union Street Inn is a romantic ley tour that hits all the Key West Highlights). It’s in B&B just off Main Street with twelve guest rooms that the evenings, though, that Key West really shines. The combine historic charm with modern amenities (Frette nighttime revelry kicks off with the Sunset Celebration linens, free WiFi, flat-screen TVs). They also are the only at Mallory Square and moves from there to the restau- Nantucket B&B to serve a full made-to-order breakfast, rants and bars lining Duval Street and its environs. For with signature dishes like Challah French toast with couples lucky enough to be in town during one of Key fresh local berries. Ahhh, what a delicious way to start West’s many festivals and celebrations, the streets will your married life together!
food & cakes
Madison Beach Hotel
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
East coast raw bar sampler with fresh horseradish cocktail sauce.
e Nourishm nt h for the heart‌ and your guests. Cater ing and C akes
58
2011
menus reflect a near obsession with healthy choices. There’s a palpable preference for food that originates from local purveyors, especially those who offer organic and sustainable options. Plates are replete with vibrant colors and heirloom produce that remind us why local options inevitably are fuller flavored. Juicy, zesty vegetarian choices surprise even the meat and potato crowd. Wedding cakes? They’re back with gusto! The cupcake alternative of recent years has pretty much played out in major cities. This year welcomes a return to the show stopper wedding cake, many of which reflect the world of fashion: lots of neutral colors, perhaps a pale green or lavender splash, bright persimmon and the dramatic boldness that only black and white can convey.
Scrumptions
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography location: Madison Beach Hotel
Five-tier Henna cake finished in vanilla butter cream frosting. Red velvet cake filled with cream cheese butter cream. $7.50 per slice.
Toria Dolce
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography location: Madison Beach Hotel
Lemon short bread cookie favors covered in fondant. $5.95 each.
By E. Bingo Wyer
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food & cakes
Tables Of Content
photo: Dan Doke Photography
top: Organic vegetable gazpacho soup sippers with avocado mousse.
above: Pineapple sorbet with pineapple mint.
Providence Biltmore
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
right: Appetizer array of chipotle barbeque shrimp, sweet corn potato cake and grilled watermelon.
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Hotel Viking
top: Grilled Sea Bass on a bed of creamed potatoes and asparagus, topped with fresh green herbs.
Hotel Viking
below: Tenderloin with seasoned mashed potatoes and asparagus in a rich reduction sauce, topped with thinly sliced fried onion strings.
Madison Beach Hotel
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
above: Pumpkin and seafood risotto with pomegranate reduction.
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food & cakes
Scrumptions
photos: Sara Zarrella Photography location: Madison Beach Hotel
left: Four-tier squared cake in white rolled fondant with edible disks in white, silver, and black. Chocolate cake filled with caramel and chocolate ganache. $12 per slice. right: Four-tier French lace doily cake with vanilla butter cream frosting adorned with handmade gumpast flowers and bows. Vanilla cake filled with strawberry and champagne filling. $8.50 per slice.
Bar Harbor Inn
top: Double chocolate cheesecake enrobed in chocolate ganache with hazelnut sauce.
Bar Harbor Inn
above: Vanilla bean panna cotta with fresh mango and pomegranate syrup.
Bar Harbor Inn 62
right: Lobster and cucumber maki roll.
Providence Biltmore
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
Angus filet, crisp yukon gold potatoes and local beans with a porcini demi.
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food & cakes
clockwise from top left:
Tables Of Content
photo: Dan Doke Photography
top left: Fresh-squeezed lemonade with blackberry polka dots.
Tables Of Content
photo: Dan Doke Photography
bottom right: Toasted sesame soba noodles with lotus root and wok fried vegetables. 64
Tables Of Content
photo: Dan Doke Photography
top right: Minted rice paper spring rolls with Nuac Chom dipping sauce.
Kelly Sweet Rewards
photo: Leslie Dumke Studio
bottom left: Traditional red velvet with a cream cheese filling/frosting, a double chocolate cake with a raspberry mousse filling and a vanilla buttercream frosting. $6 per slice
Fresh from our own gardens to your table, we are proud to be the first and only Certified Green catering company in Massachusetts
Beautiful… Exquisite… Perfect
(617) 363-0404 www.tablesofcontent.com
Flawlessly catered weddings At your home… At historic venues… All throughout New England.
food & cakes
Providence Biltmore
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
right: Seared scallops, vegetable napoleon and romesco sauce. below: Heirloom tomato salad, shaved fennel and gorgonzola cheese.
Madison Beach Hotel
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
Roasted black mission figs with vanilla ice cream and garden strawberries.
Madison Beach Hotel
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
right: Slow-roasted salmon with minted pea puree and pinot noir reduction. 66
Hotel Viking
Fresh flounder delicately prepared with lemon butter sauce, garnished with capers, scallions and roasted baby carrots on a bed of sauteed spinach.
Madison Beach Hotel
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
above: Golden crisp blue point oysters with green tomato chutney.
Tables Of Content
photo: Dan Doke Photography
left: Colorado lamb rack with pomegranate jus aside salt roasted fingerling potatoes and asparagus.
Pat Lordan PhotograPhy
ExquisitE CakEs for ExquisitE oCCasions
I Dream of Jeanne Cakes 978-869-6013
www.jtCakEs.Com
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food & cakes Providence Biltmore
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
far left: Veal loin chop, rosemary waffle and summer vegetables with a sweet garlic sauce.
left: Handmade pizzelles with seared figs and heavy cream fraiche.
Toria Dolce
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography location: Madison Beach Hotel
above: White fondant-covered tiers with purple fondant ribbon base and handmade purple sugar paste iris. $8 per slice right: Tiered cake with vertical purple panes and accents of gold. Gold and white accented butterflies with small five-petal blossoms around the base of each tier. $8 per slice 68
ScrumptionS w e d d i n g c a k e s • f i n e d e s s e r t s • f av o r s
scrumptions.com East GrEEnwich, ri 02818 401.884.0844
Madison Beach Hotel
photo: Sara Zarrella Photography
Jumbo lump local blue claw crab with heirloom tomatoes, avocado and fresh majoram-infused olive oil.
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LOVE STORY
70
Lindsey & Er ıc Sharon, Massachusetts
N
}
November 15, 2009
ovember 1, 2008 started out like any other Saturday night for Lindsey and her boyfriend Eric. Little did she know it would turn out to be an evening she’d remember for the rest of her life! The pair, originally from Sharon, Massachusetts, was then living in Manhattan’s Upper West Side, so Lindsey was a bit thrown off when Eric had made dinner reservations in Brooklyn that night. “We never went to Brooklyn—we never left the island,” she remembers. “But we ate at this great Mexican place that had a view of the whole city. It was really quite beautiful. Dinner was nice—nothing out of the ordinary. The restaurant was in this part of Brooklyn called Red Hook. It’s the edge of Brooklyn and a little desolate without much around. When we left the restaurant and were walking down a quiet street, I got to the car and realized Eric hadn’t unlocked it. I turned around
By Lindsey Aspinall Getz
to tell him to unlock it and there he was, down on his knee in the middle of the street!” After that, Lindsey doesn’t remember much, except that there were a lot of tears of joy. The ceremony was held at Temple Israel in the couple’s hometown. It was the same place where both Lindsey and Eric had their Bar and Bat Mizvahs, and conducted by the same Rabbi—Rabbi Barry Starr. Lindsey wanted a small, intimate affair so the couple had no wedding party. “A very close family friend played the saxophone as we walked down the aisle,” she recalls. “It was unique and amazing.” The reception was held at Spring Valley Country Club with the theme of a Sunday jazz brunch. “We wanted a very relaxed atmosphere,” Lindsey says. “We had different height tables—tall round ones, big low farm tables, and couches with coffee tables, all
around the room. There was no assigned seating.” Rentals: Rentals Unlimited Bloody Mary’s were the rentals-unlimited.net cocktail of choice for the day. “Eric and I are both Photographer: Sara Zarrella Photography huge Bloody Mary fans,” sarazarrella.com says Lindsey. There were also Raspberry mimosas Reception Site: Spring Valley Country Club and a selection of wine. springvalleycc.com Baskets of warm cinnamon sticky buns adorned each Florist David Price, DEP Events table and a double omelet station with all of the fixings was also a hit. Lindsey says that though she was sort of the anti-bride—she left all the planning up to her mom and very close friend, Dana Green, from Rentals Unlimited—it was still the wedding of her dreams. And guests enjoyed themselves as well. “I think people enjoyed being at a ‘different’ type of wedding,” she says. “Jazz brunch style! It was relaxing and enjoyable.”
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LOVE STORY
72
Jacqueline & Anthony Boston, Massachusetts
O
}
June 4, 2010
n Christmas night 2008, Jacqueline—having enjoyed a fun but tiring day with family, friends and then-boyfriend Anthony at her parents’ Boston home—was content to spend a quiet, uneventful movie night with Anthony at their apartment. Anthony had a much different plan in mind, however. While Jacqueline changed, Anthony got to work. “When I came back into the living room, our Christmas tree was lit, lights were turned down, and candles were everywhere,” Jacqueline recalls. “I was thinking, ‘this is a lot of effort for a movie date,’ when Anthony told me he hadn’t given me my Christmas present yet. He got down on one knee and asked me to spend the rest of my life with him! I was in shock; I just stood there until Anthony asked me not to make him ask twice. I said YES!” Wanting a Boston summer wedding, Jacqueline and Anthony opted for a date of Spring/Summer of 2010. The extra time and planning paid off beautifully. Amidst the high-vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows of St. Leonard’s Church in Boston’s North End, bride and groom proclaimed their vows surrounded by 140 friends and family members, who followed them out of the church cheering and blowing bubbles. The festivities continued at the Omni Parker House. “When Anthony and I visited we fell in love right away,” says Jacqueline of their reception choice. “We loved the history (JFK proposed to Jackie Kennedy there) and we loved its elegance. The rooftop ballroom offers amazing views of Boston and a little outdoor patio as well. With half of the guests traveling from Anthony’s hometown of New York, we thought what better way to show off the town we live in? And what Bostonian doesn’t love a great view of their city?” Equally spectacular was the service. “The day of the wedding, everyone at the Omni Parker House went out of their way to make the day special,” notes Jacqueline. “Anthony and I wanted the wedding to exude understated elegance and romance. I wanted my dress to match that,” relates Jacqueline. Her choice: a strapless ivory gown of silk organza and lace with a fit-andflare shape and a train. Jacqueline added an Erin Cole brooch—made of pearls and Swarovski crystals—to a champagne-colored waist sash and two matching Erin Cole silk flower hairpins. As something borrowed, Jacqueline wore her sister’s pearl bracelet; a diamond ring from her grandfather served as something old and By Nayda Rondon
cherished. Open-toe ivory silk heels, a cathedral-length veil with ivory silk trimming and a bouquet of white and ivory roses completed the look. Anthony was classically elegant in a black tuxedo, black vest, and ivory shirt and tie. The bridesmaids wore Priscilla of Boston knee-length cocktail dresses with ruffle details at the hemline, while the groomsmen and ushers wore black tuxedos with black vests and ties. Classic romantic touches abounded—white damask linens, gold Chiavari chairs, Gloriette china, votive candles and all-white centerpieces in silver Revere bowls. Emphasizing the Boston setting, guest tables were named after Boston locations instead of table numbers with mounted photos depicting them. While guests enjoyed the cocktail hour offerings, Anthony and Jacqueline snuck into the ballroom where they couldn’t resist a private dance. “As we were practicing, our DJ snuck up on us and turned on our song.” Jacqueline reminisces. “It Reception Site: Omni Parker House was a special moment that the two of us loved. omniparkerhouse.com “Needless to say, the dance was a success,” continues Jacqueline. “We picked ‘L.O.V.E.’ by Photographer: BKB Photography Nat King Cole. We wanted to pick a happy-gobkbphoto.com lucky song to kick off the party right. We kept our dance lessons a secret and managed to Rentals: Rentals Unlimited surprise our guests and even ourselves. rentals-unlimited.net “Our DJ really knew how to feel out the mood of the guests. He had the guests out on Florist: Cedar Grove Gardens the dance floor before dinner was even over!” cedargrovegardens.com Dinner options included seared sea bass, herb-roasted breast of chicken with a merEntertainment: Entertainment Concepts lot demi-glace and wild mushroom ravioli. entertainmentconceptsna.com The delicious cake featured white chocolate mousse, Gran Marnier and strawberries. Other Wedding Cake: Montilio’s Bakery sweet touches: mini Boston Cream pies (a www.montilios.com Parker House specialty) and a candy buffet. Brittany from BKB Photography captured it all. “Brittany really helped make the whole wedding day run smoothly,” Jacqueline says. “She took the initiative, working with the other vendors to make sure we were on schedule and working like clockwork. She really puts the personal touch on everything she does. The wedding photos were absolutely beautiful. I couldn’t have asked for anything more!” “It was a great day! We had such fun! And what makes it even better is hearing how much fun all of our guests had… even months later!” 73
LOVE STORY
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Casey & Shannon Providence, Rhode Island
T
}
July 17, 2010
he story of Casey and Shannon began about a decade ago when the pair first started dating. Casey was a senior in college and Shannon was in law school. When things ended amicably, the pair went their separate ways—but their lives would follow a strangely similar path. Shannon, a member of the army, was deployed to Afghanistan, following the events of 9/11, where she served for a year in a series of missions. Casey got her Masters in teaching and followed her passion for teaching American History. Some time after that, both wound up in California—unbeknownst to each other— and lived there for three years until the pull to return to their families grew too great, and they each returned to Rhode Island. About a year ago, Shannon found Casey on Facebook. It became clear their connection hadn’t paled with time or distance. Things moved quickly from there. “A few months later, on a freezing cold night in mid-December, Shannon brought me blindfolded to John Brown House (a historic museum on the east side of Providence), got down on both knees and proposed with a dazzling ring,” recalls Casey. “We then went to dinner at Gracie’s in downtown Providence—our favorite restaurant.” The pair planned their wedding day around the recreation of that special night with the ceremony at John Brown House and the reception at Gracie’s. Because of the wedding site being part of a historical society, there were a lot of restrictions, and the couple kept the ceremony limited to immediate family only. But their reception included 70 guests and a fabulous menu with items like lobster profiteroles, filet mignon, the restaurant’s famous gnocchi and a full dessert bar. The wedding cake By Lindsey Aspinall Getz
was coconut with lemon chiffon, made by the Bakery Boutique. Photographer: Sara Zarrella Photography Casey and Shannon danced to It Had to Be sarazarrella.com You by Harry Connick, Jr., for their first dance. “It couldn’t have been more appropriate,” says Reception Site: Gracie’s Casey. It was a magical night for everyone. graciesprovidence.com But there’s a twist to the story, says Casey that makes it even more special for the pair. “A Florist: Cherry Hill Florist few weeks before Shannon proposed, we found cherryhillflower.com out that she was slated to do a second tour in Afghanistan the following year,” she says. Favors: Rhode Island Soap Works “Knowing that she would be gone for a year, we decided to undergo a complicated proceInvitations: Paper Moon dure where I would be implanted with Shanpapermooninvites.com non’s embryos since it could be her last shot at having biological children. The success rate Entertainment: Partytime DJ was less than 30 percent, but with both of us victorfrompartytime.com undergoing two months of fertility treatments, it worked the first try.” Cake: Bakery Boutique By the time the wedding day arrived, Casey pinkandbrownbakery.com was four months pregnant with twins and was barely able to fit in the Sophia Tolli dress she had ordered six months prior. “Luckily it had a laceup corset!” she laughs. “We are expecting a boy and a girl, which we have decided to name Grant and Grace—Grant after Ulysses S. Grant, the former president and military hero, in light of my passion for history and Shannon’s 13-year commitment to the military,” Casey shares. “Grace we are naming after Gracie’s, the venue where we once had dates and eventually got married.”
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little white book /`lit•el wıt book / noun A directory of La Bella Bride Magazine advertisers organized by states and categories.
E n t e r tai n m e n t
Jenks Productions, Inc 860-563-2111 jenksproductions.com F l or a l De sig n
Diane Gaudett Custom Floral 203-426-5949 dianegaudett.com
Rentals Unlimited 781-341-1600 rentals-unlimited.net
M a ss ach usetts
Unique Weddings by Alexis 617-833-5661 weddingsbyalexis.com Pho t o g r aph y
Dan Doke Photography 978-664-3811 dandoke.com
dan doke photogr aphy
C at e r i n g
Tables of Content 617-363-0404 tablesofcontent.com
B r i da l S h ows
Celebeautique Hair Spa 401-847-7377 celebeautique.com
Absolutely Music/ Four Guys in Tuxes 617-482-3234 508-457-1583 401-847-4416 fourguysintuxes.com E v e n t De si g n & Pl a n n i n g
R e n ta l s
Hai r & Ma k e u p
R e c e p t i on
Independence Harbor 800-287-8300 ihweddings.com Omni Parker House 617-227-8600 omniparkerhouse.com R e n ta l s
Rentals Unlimited 781-341-1600 rentals-unlimited.net
La Bella Bridal Event 401-946-0009 labellabridemagazine.com Southern New England Bridal Expo 401-885-8788 snebridalexpo.com De s t i n at i on s
Block Island Tourism Counsel 800-383-2474 blockislandinfo.com
Paper Moss 800-511-0210 papermoss.com
E n t e r tai n m e n t
Absolutely Music/ Four Guys in Tuxes 617-482-3234 508-457-1583 401-847-4416 fourguysintuxes.com
Golden Gate Studios 401-461-2299 goldengatestudio.com
Aldrich Mansion 401-739-6850 aldrichmansion.com Independence Harbor 800-287-8300 ihweddings.com Providence Biltmore 401-455-3027 providencebiltmore.com The Hotel Viking 401-848-4800 hotelviking.com
Li g h t i n g & Prod u c t i on
Jack Falvey & Associates 401-294-0228 JackFalveyAssociates.com Ph o t o g r aph y
YourNewportWedding.com 800-976-5122 ext. 133 weddings@GoNewport.com
F l or a l De si g n
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I n v i tat i on s
R e c e p t ion
sar a zarrell a photogr aphy
B r i da l S hows
Rhode Isl a n d sar a zarrell a photogr aphy
Conn ec t icu t
Erick Brown Photography 401-440-2361 erickbrown.com Main Event Weddings 800-915-9225 maineventweddings.com Kim Praast Photography 401-996-8877 kimpraastphotography.com
West Valley Inn 401-822-2834 westvalleyinn.com R e n ta l s
Rentals Unlimited 781-341-1600 rentals-unlimited.net
West Valley Inn
Rhode Island’s Premier Banquet Facility, Family-Owned and Operated for 30 Years! Wedding Receptions and functions with flexible rooms for up to 600 people. Elegant atmosphere and an experienced management team with catering directors and culinary chefs that can customize a menu to suit your specific needs.
West Valley Inn / 4 Blossom Street, West Warwick, RI / (401) 822-2834
fashion
H
ere comes the bride! For 2011 there’s a remarkable marriage of classic elements and tasteful appliqués that produce some of the most beautiful collections we’ve seen in a decade. Tulle overlays, perhaps this year’s most innovative addition, lend a sophisticated softness to high gloss fabrics such as satin or certain silks. This is the year for smaller embellishments, too, which we find more magical than ‘big statements’ and ‘wow’ flourishes. Many designers thoughtfully employ whimsical hints of butterflies, bows or floral petals; most are added by way of delicate classic appliqués. Personally, we’re cheered that beaded crystals prevail, too, this year! Just the right touches of sparkle makes an evening wedding more sophisticated. Ruched bodices cinch the waist and double tiered hems create fanciful finishes that move beautifully. And yes, the captivating allure of strapless designs remains a key style note for 2011.
Badgley Mischka
Buttercup: Strapless gown with butter crème silk charmeuse bodice and textured silk crepe, multi petal skirt of varying shades pearl to butter crème. $9,670
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By E. Bingo Wyer
the Allure
of Classic
Beauty
Badgley Mischka
Meadow: A-line strapless gown of pearl covered in three-dimensional floral blossoms. $5,930
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fashion
Anne Barge Grayson (right): Column gown of pearl Alencon lace with V-neckline of draped tulle. $5,490 Belt of Chocolate brown velvet accented by pearl chiffon flowers. $800 Reece (bottom): A column gown with sheer tulle yoke and Chantilly lace bodice overlaid with threedimensional beading and embroidery, cinched at the waist by a band of Italian silk satin, accented by a side bow. $5,930
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Anne Barge Blake (above): Shirred silk organza strapless elongated bodice with asymmetrically ruffled skirt accented by roses. $4,170 Devereaux (left): Dropped torso ball gown with Chantilly lace, strapless bodice accented by three-dimensional petals with skirt of layered tulle, natural waist in taupe silk ribbon. $7,910
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fashion Anne Barge Porter: Strapless fitted and flared gown of pearl silk satin organza with large florals dotting the hem. Upper $3,000
Lela Rose The Secret Garden (far right): V-neck gown with a three-dimensional rose full skirt in a soft white. $4,995
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Anne Barge Bailey (left): V-neck, cummerbund natural waist gown with full skirt of dotted net accented by self flower and lace appliquĂŠ at waist. Upper $3,000
Brogan: Pearl silk taffeta mermaid shape gown with rouched bust line cinched with rhinestone appliquĂŠ in front and back, spaghetti straps and open back, natural waistline with rhinestone buttons in back, very full lower skirt and chapel train. Mid $3,000
fashion
Anne Barge Skylar (above): Strapless short dress with bodice of satin organza and shaggy skirt layered in Chantilly lace and tulle sashed at the natural waist. Low to mid $2,000
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Farell (right): Short strapless dress with Chantilly lace bodice, cummerbund of pearl silk taffeta, pleated skirt of silk organza over silk taffeta embellished with hem ruffles of lace. Low to mid $2,000
Kristin Spencer Photography
Lela Rose
The Woods: Satin faced georgette gown with lace neckline and covered in back detail. $3,995
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fashion
Lela Rose
The City: Mix and match! Simple seamed bustier in a soft white (right). $995 Crystal embroidered bustier in a soft white (far right). $1,595 Feather fringed embroidered mini skirt in a soft white. $2,995
Kenneth Poole
Luisa: Duchess satin and tulle tulle trumpet gown with crumbcatcher neckline and floral accent at hip. $4,900
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Sunday, January 9th, 2011 Rhode Island Convention Center P r ovidenc e, ri
and m ark your c a le nda r s f or
Meet with over 150 of Southern New England’s Top Wedding Professionals! Great Prizes & Giveaways from many of the exhibitors! Two Professional Fashion Shows: 1pm & 4pm
January 8th, 2012
v i Sit snebridalexpo.com For Full Details Regarding the Show and an Interactive Floor Plan
Sponsored by:
Managed by Quality event ManageMent 3970 Post Road, Penthouse #2, Warwick RI 02886 401.885.8788 • www.snebridalexpo.com
fashion
Christos Lela Rose 2011 Collection
The Balcony (above): Draped tulle asymmetrical gown with jewel beaded neckline in a soft white. $4,995 88
Arabella (right): Tulle V-neck ballgown with sheer neckline and natural waist. Skirt features delicate floral and crystal embellishment. $11,900
2011 Bridal Expos The Northeast’s Largest & Most Complete Wedding Shows with Exhibits, Live Entertainment & Dazzling Fashion Shows
8th Annual Sheraton at Bradley Bridal Show November 14, 2010 Sheraton at Bradley Int’l Airport, Windsor Locks, CT 9th Annual Eastern Pennsylvania Bridal Expo January 8-9, 2011 Rauch Fieldhouse Lehigh University Bethlehem, PA 21st Annual Springfield Bridal Expo January 8-9, 2011 Eastern States Exposition, Home of the Big E West Springfield, MA
4th Annual Worcester Bridal Expo January 8-9, 2011 DCU Center, (the Centrum) Worcester, MA
12th Annual Baystate Bridal Expo January 22-23, 2011 Hynes Convention Center Boston, MA
26th Annual Connecticut Bridal Expo January 15-16, 2011 Connecticut Expo Center Hartford, CT
7th Annual Foxboro Bridal Expo February 13, 2011 Gillette Stadium Foxborough, MA
10th Annual Westchester County Bridal Expo January 22, 2011 Westchester County Center White Plains, NY
South Florida Bridal Expo February 13, 2011 South Florida Expo Center, West Palm Beach, FL
NEW1st Annual
Plymouth Bridal Expo January 23, 2011 South Shore Expo Center Plymouth, MA
100s of Participating Companies Bridal Shops * Formal Wear * Photographers Videographers * Jewelers * Florists * Bakers * Invitations Caterers * Disc Jockeys * Entertainment Make-up & Hair Stylists * Cosmetic Dentistry Banquet Facilities * Hotels * Limousines Wedding Consultants * Gifts & More…
NEW1st Annual
10th Annual Hartford Bridal Expo February 27, 2011 XL Center Hartford, CT
Exhibit Space, Media & Corporate Sponsorship Packages Available For More Info: Jenks Productions, Inc. www.je nk spro duct io ns.c o m 800 955-7469 (Outside CT) or 860 563-2111
fashion S us a n Fre da Twisted wire rings. 14 kt. gold. $900-$1200
LaBella Loves TACORI left: Classic round Dantela engagement ring with slender strings of diamonds. Diamond details decorate the sides and a signature crescent for interest from every angle. Price upon request. right: Square-cut diamonds and pave-set petals make this round diamond blossom! Diamonds along the shoulders of the band and high polished sides create an elegant, modern look. Price upon request.
w h oo p i e ! A jar full of joy, the appetizing new Whoopie white velvet Shea butter body cream contains a supple blend of Shea and cocoa butters, jojoba seed oil, soybean oil, aloe and vitamins A and E. The butters and oils soften and soothe even the severest of dry, chapped skin, while helping to improve the skin’s elasticity. Paraben- and sulfate-free. $30
Su s a n Fre da Vermeil bangle bracelet with bronze freshwater pearls. $140
90
S us a n Fre da 14kt. gold with emeralds and garnets. $1400
Style TIFFAN Y & Co. top: Lapis lazuli beads, diamonds and turquoise in 18 karat gold by Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co. $12,500 below: Black onyx with diamonds and emeralds in 18 karat yellow gold by Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co. $18,500
T IFFAN Y & Co. Blue enamel and 18 karat yellow gold ring and bangle in 18 karat yellow gold. $2400-$4950
MO NV IEV E Haute couture ‘Francesca’ cathedral length veil. Pale brushed gold and antiqued pewter French chantilly lace veil with an archived design motif worked into a specially developed Italian tulle. Completely made by hand in Italy. $4,790
TIFFAN Y & Co. top: Tiffany Garden diamond necklace in platinum. Price upon request. middle: Tiffany Garden lavender amethyst medium pendant and rings in 18 karat rose gold. Pendant $950, ring $1200. bottom: Tiffany Garden rose-cut diamond pendants in platinum (from top): Butterfly $3900, Bee $3200, Dragonfly $2900. 91
editorial index Monvieve monvieve.com Susan Freda susanfreda.com Tacori tacori.com Tiffany & CO. tiffany.com
Bridal Gown Designers Anne Barge annebarge.com Badgley Mischka badgleymischka.com Christos christosbridal.com Lela Rose Collection lelarose.com Kenneth Poole kennethpool.com
Cakes
Main Event Weddings maineventweddings.com
Honeymoon Destinations
Partytime DJ victorfrompartytime.com
Key West, FL-Lighthouse Court historickeywestinns.com
R. Harris Lane Orchestra hanklane.com
Event Design & Planning Classic Events Design classiceventdesignsli.com Planned to Perfection plannedtoperfectionllc.com Sixpence for Your Shoe sixpenceevents.com Unique Weddings by Alexis weddingsbyalexis.com
Favors Rhode Island Soap Works onlyinrhodeisland.com Tiffany & CO. tiffany.com
Bakery Boutique pinkandbrownbakery.com
Whoopie farmhousefreshgoods.com
Kelly Sweet Rewards kellysweetrewards.com
Floral Design
Lulu’s Cake Boutique everythinglulu.com Montilio’s Bakery montilios.com Scrumptions scrumptions.com The Cupcakerie thecupcakerie.net Toria Dolce toriadolce.com Wrights Dairy Farm wrightsdairyfarm.com
Catering
Blooming Blossoms blooming-blossoms.com Cedar Grove Gardens cedargrovegardens.com Cherry Hill Florists cherryhillflowers.com Conceptual Image Design conceptualimagedesigns.com Design Fusion designfusionnyc.com Emily Herzig Floral Studio ehfloral.com Golden Gate Studios goldengatestudios.com
Tables of Content tablesofcontent.com
Just for You Floral Design justforyouweddings.com
Tom’s Market tomsmarket.com
Jeri Solomon Floral Design jerifloraldesign.com
Entertainment
Orchids ‘n’ Bloom orchidsnblooms.com
Entertainment Concepts entertainmentconceptsna.com Johnny “The Colonel” Maguire 401.595.0367
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Rose Petals and Lace rosepetalsandlace.com Stems Floral Design stemsflowerdesign.com
Key West, FL-Albury Court historickeywestinns.com Nantucket Island, MA-American Seasons americanseasons.com Nantucket Island, MA- Union Street Inn unioninn.com New OrleansInn on Bourbon innonbourbon.com kassie lafazia photography
Accessories
Invitations/Paper Papermoon Invitations papermoonstationery.com Paper Moss papermoss.com
Lighting Jack Falvey Associates jackfalveyassociates.com
Linens
Main Event Weddings maineventweddings.com
Wildflower Linens wildflowerlinens.com
Peter Reinhard petereinhard.com
Libatations
RI Photobooths riphotobooths.com
The Pour People 401-619-1060
Model Agency
Rodeo & Co. Photography rodeoandco.com
The Beauty Within thebeautywithin.com
Sara Zarrella Photography sarazarrella.com
Photographers
Sabrina Scolari scolariphoto.com
Andrew Reilly Photography andrewreilly.com BKB Photography bkbphoto.com
Reception Sites Bar Harbor Inn barharborinn.com
Dan Doke Photography dandoke.com
Cipriani Wall Street cipriani.com/locations/ new-york
Dinofaphotographey dinofaphotography.com
Clarks Landing clarkslandingcaterers.com
Images by Berit imagesbyberit.com
Crystal Springs Resorts crystalgolfresort.com
Kassie LaFazia Photography kassielafazia.com
Gracie’s graciesprovidence.com
Hair & Makeup
Kim Praast Photography kimpraastphotography.com
Brides On Location 401-524-5466
Leslie Dumke Studio lesliedumkestudio.com
Madison Beach Hotel madisonbeachhotel.com Omni Parker House omniparkerhouse.com
Pawtucket Armory Center for the Arts armoryartsri.org Providence Biltmore providencebiltmore.com Spring Valley Country Club springvalleycountryclub.com The Aldrich Mansion aldrichmansion.com The Hotel Viking hotelviking.com The Palace palacesomersetpark.com
Rentals Party Rental Limited partyrentalltd.com Rentals Unlimited rentals-unlimited.net
Videographer David Bettencourt davidbettencourt.com Main Event Weddings maineventweddings.com Open Eye Media 0peneyedocumentary.com
A nu U salon
Unique Weddings by Alexis weddingsbyalexis.com
Jenks Productions, Inc. jenksproductions.com QEM-Southern New England Bridal Expo southernnewenglandbridalexpo.com
Florists
Cakes
E H Floral floralatte.com
Hair.Face.Nails.massage
Envision a New You
Diane Gaudett Custom Floral Design dianegaudett.com
I Dream of Jeanne jtcakes.com
Golden Gate Studio goldengatestudio.com
Scrumptions scrumptions.com
Just for You Floral Design Studio justforyouweddings.com
Catering Tables of Content tablesofcontent.com
Destination Weddings Block Island Tourism Council blockislandinfo.com
Entertainment
Invitations / Calligraphy
The DJ Network thedjnetwork.com
Paper Moon Invitations papermoonstationery.com
Event Planner Planned to Perfection plannedtoperfectionllc.com
Papermoss papermoss.com
Sixpence For Your Shoe sixpenceevents.com
La Bella Bride Magazine
Whispering Pines uri.edu/ajc/wpines
Aldrich Mansion aldrichmansion.com
Non Profit
Bar Harbor Inn barharborinn.com
Rentals Unlimited rentals-unlimited.net
Independence Harbor ihweddings.com
Videographers
Photographers
Celebeautique Hair Salon celebeautique.com
Absolutely Music/ Four Guys in Tuxes fourguysintuxes.com
West Valley Inn westvalleyinn.com
Jack Falvey & Associates jackfalveyassociates.com
Rose Petals and Lace rosepetalsandlace.com
A Nu U Salon 401.946.6398
The Viking Hotel hotelviking.com
Reception Sites
A Wish Come True awishcometrue.org
Hair/Make-Up
The Providence Biltmore providencebiltmore.com
Lighting
Orchids N’ Blooms orchidsnblooms.com
Stems stemsflowerdesign.com
Your Newport Wedding yournewportwedding.com
2 Cottage Street Cranston RI 02910 401.946.6398
Omni Parker House omniparkerhouse.com
BKB Photography bkbphoto.com
Madison Beach Hotel madisonbeachhotel.com
Rentals
S.H Photography shvideography.com
Dan Doke Photography dandoke.com Erick Brown Photography LLC erickbrown.com Images by Berit Inc. imagesbyberit.com Kim Praast Photography kimpraastphotography.com Main Event Weddings maineventweddings.com Sara Zarrella Photography sarazarrella.com
Labellabridemagazine.com
Memorable...
sara zarrella photography
Bridal Shows
advertiser index
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Bar Harbor Inn & Spa PREMIER OCEANFRONT RESORT
800-350-3352 ■ 207-288-3351 Newport Drive, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609 www.barharborinn.com 93
LOVE STORY
94
Jennifer & Chr ıstopher Providence, Rhode Island
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}
August 1, 2009
I am going to put a ring on that girl’s finger,” Christopher proclaimed to a friend on the night he first met Jennifer in the spring of 2002 at Quinnipiac University, which they both attended. Although they became friends, they didn’t start dating until the fall of 2004, and Christopher didn’t make good on his declaration until February 2008. Christopher chose his parents’ lake house in Lake George, New York, to make his intentions crystal clear. “Chris had wanted to propose on the water in the boat—his favorite place to be—but he had to settle for the frozen lake. He jumped off the snowmobile while it was moving, knowing I would take over the steering and drive it back to him lying on the ice,” says Jennifer. She suspected something fishy when Christopher, a professional stuntman, kept saying his leg was broken and trying to stand. But suspicion turned to delight when he dropped to his knee and proposed. High temperatures also played a role on the wedding day. Although it was a hot August day when they wed last year, the weather wasn’t the cause of the sticky situation that developed. Everything was perfect… except for the fact that the bride was sick with a stomach virus and almost missed her own wedding! “I woke up the morning of the wedding after being up all night from not feeling great,” Jennifer recalls. “I was so excited, but as the morning went on, I knew something was wrong. I ended up getting physically sick about three times and feeling like I had the flu.” Jennifer wasn’t going to let anything spoil the special day she and Christopher and their families and friends had so anticipated. She valiantly pulled off pictures, a ceremony before 210 guests, and greeting everyone at the Grand Ballroom of the stately Providence Biltmore. “I was determined to make the best of it,” Jennifer says. “Once we greeted everyone, I started to really go downhill and disappeared with my maid of honor to go ‘bustle my dress.’” A family friend, a nurse, snuck out of the cocktail hour and grabbed a cab to a hospital for antinausea medication. “As I lay there in shock and determined that I would not miss my wedding, the medicine began to help,” Jennifer says. “My amazing maid of honor got me back in my dress and we rushed upstairs to take advantage of this feeling of relief. My poor husband, parents, in-laws and the entire bridal party were lined up By Nayda Rondon
with smiles plastered on their faces, ready for introductions and getting the party started. “As corny as it may sound, my husband and I really still do get chills when we think about our grand entrance.” Jennifer continues. “After what we had been through that day, our entrance was beyond grand. All of our friends and family were going crazy for us as Chris carried me in, slowly spinning me around. With big smiles on our faces, we shouted, ‘We made it!’ I was about 45 minutes late for my own reception, I couldn’t eat and I drank Gatorade the entire night… but somehow I still managed to have fun.” The event’s happy ending was due in large part to all the fabulous people surrounding the couple. “Our event director, Scott Connery—so organized, fun and fantastic— was born to plan weddings. He and all of our vendors went above and beyond to make sure things still ran smoothly and ensure that a minimal amount of people knew that anything was wrong.” Jennifer says. Reception Site: Providence Biltmore “My husband, our families and that nurse providencebiltmore.com friend were all incredible! My maid of honor deserves a ‘maid of honor of the year’ award!” Photographer: Taking photos was the last thing Jennifer could Kim Praast Photography kimpraastphotography.com focus on that day. Yet photographer Kim Praast labored tirelessly to help pull it all off. “Kim Florist: Golden Gate Studio worked so hard and even stayed longer than we goldengatestudio.com had booked her for so she could make sure to get the important shots in,” notes a grateful Jennifer. Videographer: David Bettencourt “She spent hours working on our album with me davidbettencourt.com back and forth through email. I can’t say enough great things about Kim!” Wedding Cake: Wright’s Dairy Farm The venue was another winner. “Chris and wrightsdairyfarm.com I love older places with lots of detail, warmth and character. When we looked at the BiltLighting: Golden Gate Studio more, we knew it was us. We liked that once goldengatestudio.com our out-of-town guests got to the hotel, they didn’t have to drive anywhere else.” Makeup: Arionna DelGigante The joyous memories helped Jennifer back msquaredsalonpro.com on her road to health as she and Christopher honeymooned in Ireland and Italy. Love, after all, is the best medicine!
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HERE’S TO YOUR HISTORY. AND YOUR FUTURE.
There’s nothing better than building on a great history to create a wonderful future. And no more legendary place to celebrate the meeting of yesterdays and tomorrows than The Hotel Viking. Since 1926, this Grand Dame has been Newport’s premiere wedding setting. Whether intimate or grandiose, in the Viking Ballroom or historic Newport Kay Chapel, your Special Day will truly be memorable.
Newport, Rhode Island
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