Richmond Weddings Magazine - Issue 60 - Fall/Winter 2020

Suzanne Delawar Studios

Kathryn Ivy Photography

Ryann Winn Photography and Videography

HistoricMankinMansion.com | 804-737-7773

LETTER FROM EDITORS 2020 has been the most unusual year we’ve ever had. There have been many ups and downs in the wedding industry, but nothing could have prepared us for the complete halt starting in March. From

Issue 60 FALL/WINTER 2020

having to cancel our largest wedding

Publishers: Amye & Scott Brunette

show to the ensuing months trying

Editor-in-Chief: Amye Brunette

to figure out where we go from here,

Chief Operating Officer: Scott Brunette

2020 has been our biggest challenge.

Managing Editor: Marissa McCormick Jordan

Throughout it all, our goals remained the same, to provide the best wedding vendor directory in Richmond and maintain a strong social media presence to bring inspiration during the planning process.

We empathize with couples that had to postpone/reschedule their special day after so many months of planning. Marissa, in our own office, walked this journey with you as her wedding was postponed from May but took place in August.

While our wedding vendors continue to work hard to make up for lost time in 2020, please remember to tell them you discovered them in this magazine, on RichmondWeddings. com, or on one of our social media pages. They have made an investment with us, and it would be helpful to them to know you found them in one of these places. As a local small business, it is vital now more than ever to let vendors know how you found them.

And with this issue, we sadly bid farewell to Marissa, our Managing Editor of three years, as she spreads her wings and moves on to a new adventure. We have greatly enjoyed having her here to grow our social media, write for the magazine and help our vendors.

Thank you for all you have done for us, Marissa. You will be missed by all!

For those of you planning your 2021 and 2022 (and beyond!) weddings, we wish you all the best for a bright future and happy marriage. And don’t forget to follow along with us on our blog and social media (@RVAWeddings) for endless inspiration.

Art Direction & Graphic Design: E. Strategic Design Contributing Writers:

Faith Anderson Caryn’s Bridals, Formals, & Tuxedos Amy Cabaniss Jumarcelon Castro Amanda Cinfio David Darby Matthew Davey Tammy Edwards Mikey Fuller Kim Goldstein Syndal Haun Heather Hughes Marissa McCormick Jordan Ashley Kipps Kim Moody Noelle Parent Amanda Perry Holly Peters Paula Clark Ramirez Debra Shepperson Tatiana Sizemore Kristen Walker Tommy Waters

Happy Planning!

Amye & Scott Brunette

For questions, comments or advertising information call 804-789-9110 or email info@richmondweddings.com RW Team Photos by Kristine Pringle Photographers

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Kristine Pringle Photographers

Mickie Bowman began the business as The Wedding Guide in 1989. Since selling the business to Amye & Scott in 2005, she has been enjoying every minute of retirement!

Richmond Weddings Magazine is published by AB Bridal, Inc. All rights are reserved. Articles and advertisements are the property of AB Bridal, Inc. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the expressed written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. While the information in this magazine is believed to be accurate, AB Bridal, Inc. does not guarantee it. AB Bridal, Inc. is also not liable for the goods and services provided by the advertisers in this publication nor the information contained in the advertisements.

Luxury.

It means everything is taken care of for you.

Photos by David Abel Photography

Leave the details to us. The Jefferson offers everything from custom cakes and creatively designed floral arrangements to beautiful table settings and inviting accommodations for you and your guests. Of course, you will still have plenty of choices - but your dedicated planner will make sure it all comes together flawlessly, in a venue that is like no other. jeffersonhotel.com/weddings

To learn more, contact our wedding team at 866.247.2305.

FALL/WINTER 2020 ISSUE 60

in this edition Relish Photography by Lee

Paige Stevens Photography

Emily Bartell Photography

Wedding Planners / 11

48 | Exit Stage Left

Rentals / 101

10 | The Key to Your Wedding Budget

50 | Planning Your Reception

104 | Go-To Guide: Booking Wedding Rentals

Gifts, Favors & More / 17

56 | Elevate Your Planning Experience

Attire/ 111

14 | Wedding Party Gifts

68 | Virginia Barn Wedding Spotlight

Venues & Accommodations / 21

74 | Perks of a Restaurant Rehearsal Dinner

22 | Main Street Station Spotlight

Venue Directory / 86

30 | Make the Most of Your Venue Tour

Caterers / 91

132 | How Many Hours of Photography Do You Need?

92 | Finding That Perfect Bite

134 | WOW Factor to Your Cocktail Hour

36 | Oakdale Spotlight 44 | Beyond the Wedding Party

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62 | Avoid A Wedding Day Disaster

80 | After the Aisle

96 | Romantic Friday Weddings

114 | How to Say Yes to Your Dress 116 | Keep Your Dress Flawless

Photography / 125 128 | Heather Hughes Photography Spotlight

EmmiClaire Photography

Heather Hughes Photography

EmmiClaire Photography

Videography / 137

Beauty & Health / 173

Transportation / 187

136 | Why a Videographer is a Must-Have

172 | Go Pro for Your Wedding Day

186 | Sample Transportation Timeline

Flowers / 141

176 | Agnihotri Cosmetic Facial Surgery Spotlight

Planning Tools / 191

Music & Dance / 145 146 | Start the Party with Your First Dance

Featured Weddings / 152 Invitations / 169

Sweet Treats / 179

Vendor Directory / 196

178 | Oh-So Sweet Treats

Honeymoons / 183 182 | Honeymoon Now or Later?

170 | Wedding Invitation FAQs

on the cover Paige Stevens Photography, Historic Mankin Mansion, Caryn’s Bridals, Formals and Tuxedos, Candice Hardy Makeup Artistry For more details, see page 8.

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THE RICHMOND WEDDINGS™ TEAM

Amye Brunette

Scott Brunette

Marissa McCormick Jordan

As a second generation owner, I take my role very seriously to carry on this legacy my mom started in 1989. Something I enjoy even more is my family role and keeping laughter going in our home with our boys 10 & 12 and husband, Scott. Away from work I cherish family time the most and being on the water as much as possible, as well as spending lots of time with my good friends that help keep me grounded.

I am proud to call Richmond my home since 2005. I am fortunate to be able to work with my wife, Amye. I love what we do and the people we work with. When we’re not working I enjoy spending time with Amye, our two sons and two dogs. I usually have SportsCenter on and am still a huge Dodgers and Lakers fan. Golf is my passion and I am always looking to play more. So let’s tee it up!

After graduating from JMU, I found myself in my favorite city in the world, Richmond.

Ever since I was little I have loved weddings, so to be a part of this magazine is a dream come true. Especially since I'm newly married as of August 2020! With my journalism and social media background I am so happy that I can help spread the love even further in RVA. When I’m not behind the keyboard, I love to travel, eat, and enjoy the married life!

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WE NOW PRONOUNCE YOU TRULY AMAZED. Jaws will drop. Wows will fill the room.

And that’s before you even make an entrance. The grand Shed at Main Street Station will surround your wedding guests with a spectacular view of Richmond. Prefer a more intimate setting? The station’s iconic Headhouse is ideal for smaller gatherings.

With its marble-clad columns, towering windows and intricate architectural details, this historic venue requires little embellishment.

Call 804.646.1862 for details on either setting.

THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING MainStreetStationRichmond.com

behind the scenes

COVER:

The story of our Issue 60 Cover is a bicoastal affair. When brainstorming, we wanted to be a little more edgy, embracing and welcoming a modern couple. We also knew we wanted a jumpsuit because we kept pinning them over and over again! Luckily our friends over at Caryn’s Bridals, Formals, and Tuxedos had the perfect option. A fun, comfortable crepe jumpsuit…and with pockets too! (See the full details on the last page.)

Next was the model. With our cover location locked in at the gorgeous Historic Mankin Mansion, we reached out to owners Martin and Paula for suggestions. She sent us Rachel and immediately we were smitten. Rachel, who had been married at the mansion on March 23, 2019, was perfect for our cover… except that she lived in Los Angeles.

Rachel and her husband, Kornelius, are originally from the East Coast. After a totally epic proposal (that went viral!) they came to Richmond for their grand celebration.

Thanks to the generosity of Historic Mankin Mansion, they were able to fly Rachel out for a quick weekend. She took the red-eye flight the night before our shoot, making it just in time.

Paige with Paige Stevens Photography worked her magic during our shoot, diving into bushes to get that perfect shot. Candice with Candice Hardy Makeup Artistry made the already beautiful Rachel shine, giving her a classic look with that signature red lip. Rachel’s mother also joined us for the shoot, excited to relive and revisit the spot where her daughter got married.

With so many picturesque locations on the mansion’s property, it was hard to choose the final location, but the industrial feel of the gallery fit our vision. The brick wall backdrop, according to Paula, is “perfectly imperfect” with touches of character and history. Rachel looked beautiful and we knew we got our shot.

Thank you to all of our wonderful vendors that helped make this stunning cover become a reality. This includes Sarah with Waverly Estate who gladly went to Caryn’s in Farmville to pick up the jumpsuit for us when we couldn’t make the trip in time. A special thank you to Rachel for flying out to be a part of our cover! Pulling off a magnificent cover is truly a labor of love from all.

You can follow Rachel and Kornelius’ story on social by searching: #BecomingBascombe 8

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THE KEY to your WEDDING BUDGET

By Tatiana Sizemore

Yay! You’re engaged! Keep admiring that new ring!

Your recently married friend added you to all sorts of wedding Facebook groups and you've picked up every wedding magazine, including Richmond Weddings™! Sound familiar? Before you get caught up in the details of planning your day, there is one thing that must come first…determining your budget.

Emily

Weddings tend to come with a lot of sticker shock for couples. The average wedding in the United States costs around $30,000. That doesn't mean you couldn't do it for less, you absolutely can. No matter your budget, every couple's goal should be to have the wedding they can afford without debt and without losing their sanity. A budget plan for your wedding can save so much stress and heartache. (Even Meghan Markle had a wedding budget, just saying!)

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Bartell

Photogr

aphy

Emily Bartell Photography

wedding planners When it comes to planning, it's important to stay organized! We know how overwhelming it can seem, but that's why we have plenty of wedding planners ready to help! They are pros when it comes to organization and bringing together the biggest day of your life, so BREATHE!

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Here are the steps to creating a realistic wedding budget

1 2 3 4

Figure out how much money you and your future spouse are able to set aside each month. Do this by

discovering your joint income and subtracting monthly bills. And with the number you have left, figure out how much you want to save for your wedding. If that number is smaller than you would like, see what you can cut from your monthly expenses, such as daily Starbucks, eating out, weekly manicures, etc.

Decide how much from your savings you’ll want to contribute to your wedding. Keep in

mind, you are getting married and starting a LIFE with someone.

That may mean buying a house, kids, or a trip around the world. Be sure to remember this when taking money from savings.

Consider your parents. Maybe they have been saving for your wedding day since you were born and have a generous amount to contribute or maybe they want to contribute to specific aspects.

Add all of these numbers together based on how long of an engagement you want to have. BAM!

It's a budget.

PRO TIP: Avoid loans or borrowing from a credit card.

You do not want to begin your married life in debt and a wedding is just one day; you have your whole life together.

Now the real fun begins‌ Determine what is most important to help you allocate your budget. Maybe you have always dreamed of getting married at a particular venue or hiring a certain photographer. Figuring out your specific budget is important so you can delegate money accordingly. Something important to consider, without a venue, you do not have a date, so start booking that before anything else.

Weddings are expensive affairs. Research your vendors and get an idea of what costs you are realistically looking at. There are many expenses couples tend to leave out of their budget as well. Dress alterations, stamps for invitations, and food and drinks for the wedding party to name a few. Ideally, leave a little cushion in your budget for the unexpected.

At the end of it all, your wedding should be a reflection of you and your future spouse. Think about the things from weddings you have attended and roll with that!

Tatiana Sizemore is the owner and lead coordinator/planner of Simply Charmed Weddings and Events.

SCWE specializes in everything from full planning to month of/day of management and coordination.

Couples interested in learning more about Simply Charmed Weddings and Events should visit simplycharmedevents.com

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Jordan Baker Photography

WE TURN DREAMS INTO REALITY Wedding Planning and DJ Service

Allison Kuhn Photography

Awesomesauce Photography

www.SunshineEventsByDebbie.com SEbyDebbie@gmail.com | 804-513-2345

Have a simply charmed wedding

Leigh G Photography

Marie Violet Photography

Jennifer Knecht Photography

Tiffany Simmons Photography

(804) 513-4393 · AMYCYNTHIAEVENTS.COM

Tatiana Sizemore | simplycharmedevents.com tatiana@simplycharmedevents.com R I C HMO NDW E D D IN G S.C OM

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Wedding Party

GIFTS

By Noelle Parent

Sarah and Dave Photography

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EmmiClai

raphy re Photog

On your big day, it’s important to thank all the wonderful people that supported you along the way during the planning. Your bridesmaids that planned the perfect bachelorette party, or the best man that helped write the last bit of your vows. Your wedding day is the perfect opportunity to show how much they mean. Here are a few suggestions for some heartfelt gifts that they will appreciate!

Heather

Hughes

Photog

raphy

y s Photograph Paige Steven

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Present gifts that they can use on the wedding day.

Perhaps an item that can be worn, such as jewelry or a tie or something they’ll enjoy using, like a tumbler for the guys!

Handmade beautiful rose quartz necklaces are perfect for restoring confidence and balancing emotions.

An Insulated cup is a great way to keep the drink of choice cold all day.

Make it personal by adding their name!

It’s always nice to include a fun food that can be eaten while getting ready.

Who doesn’t love homemade cheese straws? These are the perfect getting ready snacks, and you can find ones made right here in Richmond, Virginia.

Reward your taste buds with a handful of sweet or salty. Gourmet local popcorn shops offer amazing flavors like Dark Chocolate Sea Salted Caramel or Loaded Baked Potato. Every piece eaten is better than the one before it!

Gourmet Sugar Cubes: Dress up your drink with these melting little moments of genuine joy! Plus, they pair perfectly with champagne.

Whiskey Sugar Cubes: Drop one into a shot of liquor and make a quick Manhattan, OldFashioned, or Moscow Mule.

Gourmet Coffee: This is a no brainer. Coffee is life and with so many amazing local roasters, there are a plethora of amazing flavors to choose from.

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Hayes & Fisk Photography

&5

gifts, favors, more!

Favors and gifts have come a long way since your parents got married! From personalized gift boxes, fun bridal party ideas, sweet bars and more you can make a lasting impression on your guests and give them something they’ll actually use! The possibilities are endless, and we have some great ideas that will make your wedding perfectly YOU!

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Pro Tip: Surprise your best girls and guys with their packages at the rehearsal dinner so they don’t have to keep tabs on their goodies come wedding day.

Include something they can use after the big weekend like a designer soap or a bath bomb.

Soak in a sea salt tub to help cleanse and detoxify your body, relieve stress and relax the mind.

Keep your smile smooth and supple with a luxurious moisturizing lip balm.

Body products for men have come a long way. Keep them smelling fresh with a bar of handmade soap. Charcoal, eucalyptus, and cedar are a few you can find.

Give them a gift that can be used over and over again as a reminder of the special memories created together, such as a scented candle.

A "Mandle", a.k.a. Masculine Scented Candle: Help the guys set the mood with a candle made just for them. We suggest scents of bergamot, leather, tobacco flower, and musk.

The packaging itself can be a fun side too! You can work with a local company to help. They can even use custom bags to add a little personal touch to your giving!

Owner and Lead Curator - Noelle Parent - wanted to provide people with a local resource for unique and meaningful gifts that would help them save time and convey the true meaning of gift giving. Looking for the perfect gift? Visit giftedrva.com to shop our pre-designed gifts for all occasions or build your own unique gift with our inventory of RVA and Virginia made products!

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Bachelorette Parties, Bridal Showers, Girls Night, Date Night

Over 50+ Flavors of Handmade Fresh Gourmet Popcorn Custom Labeled Wedding Favors Welcome Bag Gifts | Large Orders Welcome

northernneckpopcornbag.com

RICHMOND - SHORT PUMP

201 Towne Center West Blvd. Suite 710 Richmond, VA 23233 804-447-2491 | Studio345@paintingwithatwist.com

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Miss

STEP 1:

OFFICIAL MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE

Mrs.

• Be sure to have a copy of your official marriage certificate (this will come in the mail after your marriage license is processed).

• If you need another copy, you can request it from the Virginia Vital Records online and have it sent to your home: https://usvitalrecords.org/virginia/ ordermarriagecertificate.html

STEP 2:

SOCIAL SECURITY CARD UPDATE Be sure to have in hand: □ An official marriage certificate □ Birth Certificate □ Driver’s License or Passport □ Original Social Security Card • We suggest printing and filling out the application for a new Social Security Card before you arrive. You can find it online here: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ forms/ss-5.pdf • Find the closest Social Security Office near you: https://secure.ssa.gov/ • Be sure to set aside at least two hours for the process.

We suggest that you arrive when they open for a shorter wait time.

MJ Mendoza Photography

A GUIDE TO TAKING ON YOUR NEW NAME! The checklists and to do lists don’t stop after you say “I do!” If you are planning on a name change here are a few tips and tricks to make it a smooth transition.

We know you have already updated your Facebook and Instagram, but it’s now time to make it official!

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• You can also mail everything in if you like, but keep in mind that you will have to send in all the original documents and they will be sent back to you.

STEP 3:

DRIVER’S LICENSE Have in hand: □ Marriage Certificate □ Driver’s License □ If you are changing your address as well, bring a copy of a bill that has your name and new address on it.

• Take all items to your closest DMV. Be photo ready because they will require you to take a new photo!

voter

You can also change your while you’re there!

registration

EmmiClaire Photography

&5

venues accommodations Let's help you find the perfect venue. Whether you desire intimate and whimsical or grand and glam, your dream venue is out there! This section will help you plan everything from your rehearsal dinner to reception. It can seem like there is so much to do, but don't worry! We've got your back. Check out our handy Venue Directory at the end of this section to keep you on track and break down all the important info you need to know!

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FEATURED CONTENT

Don Mears Photography

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Next Stop

Your Perfect Venue

By Marissa McCormick Jordan When an engaged couple tours Main Street Station, it’s usually the same process. They come in curious to see the venue, then once they see the gorgeous bare bones and unique city feel, their jaws drop and they can picture their wedding vision immediately.

It’s the middle of wedding season and the Richmond Weddings™ Team is sitting with Crystal Lowery, Events Manager at Main Street Station, the woman responsible for helping make city nuptial dreams come true. If you haven’t seen the shed of Main Street Station before, prepare to be wowed. Trains silently breeze by the glass box and are the perfect complement to the unique industrial feel. The concrete floors reflect the recessed lights above and give a dull reflection of the absolutely breathtaking ceiling. Exposed metal beams, the only thing left from the original building, harmonize with new wooden ones, creating that perfect balance of new and old.

Alluding to the jaw drops of touring couples, Crystal explains, “The space really has that effect!” Bring in an experienced wedding planner, and it will transform into whatever vision you’d like.

Don Mears Photography

The train shed, roughly the length of two football fields can turn your wedding into a set of experiences. Break up the length by drapes, opening a section for each part of your celebration. Start with your ceremony at the front, then open a pair of drapes to high tops and a bar for your cocktail hour. Continue to your reception, eventually ending at the back of the shed with your band and dance floor. Dance the night away with your closest family and friends with the Richmond city lights as your backdrop.

While the shed of Main Street Station is obviously impressive, it’s the Head House, an event space at the front of the building that hosts most of their weddings.

The Head House, which can accommodate up to 200 guests, is where you feel Main Street Station’s history. The Renaissance architecture from 1901 transports you to an older time in Richmond’s history.

With two side rooms with exquisite details, one gets that old city feel when climbing the stairs to the event space. Encased on the outside with brick, the Head House is superbly intimate, and just like the expansive train shed, can be transformed into anything you’d like.

Crystal explains, “We had one wedding have their ceremony in the Head House, and then everyone came down to the lower level for the cocktail hour as the catering company switched the room over into a beautiful reception.” A quaint and almost secretive balcony sits adjacent to the room, the perfect escape for you and your guests to get that breath of fresh air while looking over Main Street.

Don Mears Photography

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FEATURED CONTENT

Classic Photographers

Don Mears Photography

The harmonization of new and old, perfectly coming together into a venue unlike any other.

Rebecca Burt Photography

Rebecca Burt Photography

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Don Mears Photography

Main Street Station, in all its parts, is beautiful on its own. You don’t really need too much decor, the space speaks for itself. Completely unique and unlike any other spot on the East Coast, you can create your wedding vision. From the highway, your guests will be impressed.

The glass shed and original clock tower standing tall against the backdrop of Shockoe Bottom.

The clock tower was the palate for the entire building and made an appearance on national television in 2018.

When Richmond was named one of the cities in season 14 of ABC’s The Bachelorette, the Main Street Station team knew the lucky couple had to come to the Station. The couple had their date in the empty train shed and then sealed the deal with a kiss on the top of the clock tower.

Large floor to ceiling windows let in loads of light, giving you the feeling of being outside, without having to worry about the weather. Since the entire train station is climate controlled, it doesn’t matter if you’re getting married on a snowy February Saturday or the hottest day in August, your experience inside of Main Street Station will be just as spectacular.

When getting married at Main Street Station, there’s the sense of being part of an integral part of Richmond.

Known as “The Welcome Mat of Richmond,” Main Street Station is bringing an exquisite air to the River City. The harmonization of new and old, perfectly coming together into a venue unlike any other. Transport your guests to a wedding experience they’ve never had before without losing that sense of YOU on your big day.

Main Street Station has been a landmark in Downtown Richmond since 1901. The station offers two event spaces, perfect for any size. For more information and booking inquiries please call: (804) 646-1862 www.MainStreetStationRichmond.com 1500 E. Main Street, Richmond, VA 23219

Molly Scott Photography

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Fulfill your dream of a

Perfect Wedding!

When you say I do at Adams International School’s Big Red Barn, you support a growing Montessori community of learning.

Virginia Barn Wedding at Adams International School in Maidens, Virginia offers a number of ideal settings for casual and formal events.

Our venue features beautiful open space that is a blank canvas for you to fully customize.

www.virginiabarnwedding.com • hello@virginiabarnwedding.com 1655 Broad Street Road Maidens, VA 23102

Call now for a tour!

804.784.0141

Relish Photography by Lee

Make the Most of Your

Venue Tour

By Amanda Cinfio

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Emily Bartell Photography

EmmiClaire Photography

When planning your wedding, choosing a venue is usually the first place to start. The task may feel daunting and even overwhelming, but don’t worry! We are here to help make planning easier for you with the following things to know and to establish along the way.

1.

KNOW YOUR BUDGET. Be prepared for your venue to cost up to 40% of your total budget. Don’t be afraid to ask if venues have adapted their packages or minimums to meet current market demand and government-mandated restrictions.

2.

REQUEST A TOUR. When you make an appointment to visit a venue, be as flexible as possible. Oftentimes weekends are event days and tour staff may be limited. Most places do not allow walk-ins, so always call before visiting so the venue can fully accommodate you and your needs. It is always good practice to let the host know if you cannot make the appointment so schedules can be adjusted accordingly.

3.

COME WITH A LIST OF QUESTIONS. Be prepared to maximize your time during your tour.

A list of must-haves or deal breakers would also be a good idea. Venues have an array of resources to accommodate most wants and needs.

4.

ASK ABOUT THE RENTAL PERIOD. Be sure to ask about the amount of time allocated for your event and be realistic about how long preparations and decorating may take, as well as clean up. Many places charge a fee for going over the allotted time.

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Marshall Arts Photography

THE

PERFECT SPACE TO

START FOREVER

The Tuckers

Located between Richmond & Charlottesville, Madison at the Mill is a fully restored historic silk mill factory with original hardwood floors and gorgeous natural light.

Contact events@madisonatthemill.com or call 540.308.5874 for more details!

NuGen Media

5.

READ YOUR CONTRACT. Once you have found your dream venue, and you decide to book, get a hard copy of the executed agreement and read through it carefully. Bear in mind that due to COVID-19, there are specific conditions with regards to cancelling, postponing, adjusting guest count and more.

6.

KEEP AN OPEN MIND. Remember that all the venues you are considering may not work for your wedding, but they could be great options for bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, and bridal photo shoots!

Together with our help you can go into your wedding venue tour prepared! Happy Planning!

Amanda Cinfio is Director of Marketing and Customer Relations at The Virginia Cliffe Inn. Amanda comes from a background in hi tech and computer games, and has spent time in the exhibitions industry earlier in her career. She can be reached at Amanda@vacliffeinn.com or by calling 804-382-0500.

EmmiClaire Photography

Memories by PJ

CEREMONIES RECEPTIONS OVERNIGHT STAYS ROMANTIC NATURAL ELEGANT CHARMING Packages customized according to your requirements Weddings@vacliffeinn.com | 804.382.0500 | VACLIFFEINN.COM

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FEATURED CONTENT

Katelyn James Photography

OAKDALE The Slice of Heaven You’ve Been Looking For

By Marissa McCormick Jordan

On a gorgeous spring day, the Richmond Weddings™ team traveled to Ashland Road to explore and discover one of Richmond’s hidden gems, Oakdale. We chatted with Chris Stem, Partner, and Mary Jane Spagnolo, Manager, and the one you will be working with during the wedding planning process.

Driving onto the immaculate grounds, the overall ambiance of Oakdale is like something out of a storybook. A pristine white barn sits small in the foreground against the forest behind it. Trees that look like they’ve been there forever, sway in the ever-present breeze. The dark, lush green giving way to those signature Virginia technicolor leaves in the fall. The venue is set up to face the sunset, so you and your guests can watch the yellow sun settle on Hanover Vegetable Farm across the street. And in the corner of the picture sits a quaint and quiet pond with a landing, a magical place to say your “I do’s.”

Chris explains, “You’ll have the trees in the background, lights, and power.” The breeze plays on the surface of the pond as light shimmers off of it, a little slice of heaven. And you’re not just limited to a pond ceremony. With your package you get the entire property, 36

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which includes 100 acres of farmland and the 4,000 square foot climate-controlled building.

Just like its quiet surroundings, the building seems like it’s been there forever. While the exterior of it is quintessentially barn-like, the inside gives way to an industrial and totally on-trend space that can accommodate up to 200 guests seated. Vaulted ceilings enclose the stamped concrete, and the walls are suited with full windows, showcasing the countryside landscape. Along with a full bar and bathrooms, there is a bridal suite with enough sinks for all your girls to get ready. It also has a patio where Edison lights hang, the perfect spot for your cocktail hour or a socially distanced dancefloor. And their packages come with everything. Mary Jane says, “When it comes to a wedding here, all you have to do is bring in catering.” Along with

all the rentals (like chairs, tables, and flatware), you’ll also get a Day-Of Coordinator, golf cart service, bartenders, and even a DJ!

Katelyn James Photography

And the cherry on top for Oakdale? Their prime location. Basking in the silence of the farmland, one would never know that you’re less than 10 minutes from both Short Pump and Downtown Ashland. It’s almost boggling to wrap your head around. Chris says, “The location of the property really meant something to us. You’re close to amenities, but you’re far enough out that you can have a beautiful, private, unique wedding.”

Katelyn James Photography

Katelyn James Photography

Katelyn James Photography

When starting this endeavor, one thing was completely clear to Chris and his partners, Jeff Sears and Eric Pair, keep the integrity of the land and showcase its beauty as farmland. The name Oakdale comes from Jeff Sears’ family farm, a little down the way on Ashland Road. Passed down from generation to generation since 1902, it wasn’t just the name Oakdale that continued, but the importance of keeping agricultural integrity.

Up until 2018, Oakdale was used to raise cattle and collect hay, leaving the resulting land completely groomed and manicured.

“We wanted to stick to that tradition of farming and the fourth generation. Oakdale really ties in how we came together and still holds that family history. We wanted something that had some meaning to it.”

Oakdale is staying safe during the pandemic that has affected weddings and events in 2020. Since they have both the indoor and outdoor space, they can work with couples and the necessary guidelines set by the Governor. Mary Jane says, “You’re welcome to move your dancefloor outside or even your whole reception!” Or maybe you have a few relatives that are uncomfortable sitting inside, “We can put their tables on the patio and open the doors so they’ll still be part of the day.”

While 2021 is quickly filing up, Oakdale is offering weekday wedding packages at a discounted price. 2022, on the other hand, is completely open.

There’s a nice sense one gets when coming onto the grounds of Oakdale. Suddenly the hustle and bustle of Richmond life fade away and a sense of serenity replaces it. There’s also the sense that you’re part of something bigger. A lineage of farm owners that are working to preserve the beautiful land that decades of grazing have led to. While some aspects of Oakdale are blatantly beautiful, there are other more subtle details that make this place unlike any other. The quiet moo of a cow in the distance, the rustling of the forest, the breeze playing through acres of wildflowers, the shade of a tree that was around since before you were born.

A slice of heaven and not too far off the beaten path, Oakdale checks off so many boxes as a setting for your wedding. And behind the venue is a group of dedicated families and an experienced team ready to make your wedding dream come true.

Oakdale is now taking bookings for 2021-2022 and beyond. Visit their website, www.oakdalerva.com, email info@oakdalerva.com, or call 804-629-1824 for booking inquiries or more information.

13497 Ashland Road, Ashland, VA 23005

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Unrivaled Events.

Boutique Lodging.

Thoughtful Cuisine.

Create your dream wedding today!

1500 Manakin Road, Manakin-Sabot, Virginia 23103 www.doverhall.com

(804) 784-6051

doverhallweddings

Celebrate New Beginnings at Historic Waverly Estate A Historic Virginia Estate offering indoor and outdoor options for an unforgettable wedding Single Day and Full Weekend Weddings with Onsite Accommodations

Verlee Bishop Weddings

434-321-4032 www.waverlyestate.com waverlyestateevents@gmail.com

Beautiful New 5,000 sq ft Event Building Coming March 2020!

Kay De Lane Photography

Ashley Dorton Photography

A place where history is made.

Grant & Deb Photographers

Experience old-world elegance with new-world refinement as you begin the next chapter of your story together surrounded by lush landscapes and landmark homes.

The grounds feature three carefully restored,18th-century properties, each tastefully and meticulously appointed for all your event needs. Whether you’re hosting 25 guests or 250, our facilities provide the perfect setting for all types of ceremonies and gatherings.

Grant & Deb Photographers

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Grant & Deb Photographers

Photo Courtesy Pam Radwani Shaun Malik - 88 Love Stories

Grant & Deb Photographers

With a variety of ceremony and reception locations, there are endless possibilities for an exquisite event!

On-site accommodations available.

CUMBERLAND ESTATE

MOSS SIDE MANOR

CEDAR LANE

Contact McKenzie Gardner to plan your event today.

804-514-2077 | cumberlandestate.com

Beyond the Wedding Party: How to Include Loved Ones on Your Special Day

By Paula Clark Ramirez

Hayes & Fisk Photography

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When your wedding day arrives, you will surely be surrounded by family, friends, and other loved ones who came to celebrate your commitment. It’s common to want to include everyone who has shared in your relationship, but let’s be real – you can only have so many bridesmaids and groomsmen!

For those who want to include people beyond the wedding party, there are plenty of ways to involve your loved ones throughout your special day. Remember: it’s your day and you make the rules! Here are some of our favorite ways of incorporating friends and family.

Greeters When guests show up at your wedding, you’ll want someone to welcome them, right? Rather than having the venue staff do this or hiring greeters, ask friends or family to take their place. The role will free them of responsibilities by the time the ceremony starts but will provide them with a special place to be. Plus, they’ll feel very much included if you choose to invite them to the rehearsal dinner.

Paige Stevens Photograph y

Ushers Similar to greeters, don’t hesitate to ask loved ones to be ushers in your wedding.

Even if you’re not having assigned sides, it can help to have someone guiding guests to the ceremony spot. Ushers can play the part by helping grandma to her seat and ensuring the sides are balanced, and they will be able to enjoy the rest of the celebration after the ceremony starts.

Toasts Generally, parents, the maid of honor, and the best man give toasts at the reception, but there is no rule set in stone! Consider asking your grandparents, a beloved aunt, or a mutual friend to give a toast. In some cases, a friend may not be able to commit to the time investment of being in the wedding party, but they may be honored to give a speech on the big day!

Of course, these are only three suggestions for including your loved ones. Every wedding is different, and it may even make sense to customize your day to include someone important in another manner, like a special dance or a meaningful speech to honor them. It's your day — have fun with it!

Paula and Martin Ramirez are the proprietors of Historic Mankin Mansion, a wedding resort and bed & breakfast. They have lovingly restored this national landmark to its original grandeur and are honored to share the treasured estate with couples and their families. For more information, please visit www.historicmankinmansion.com.

y Photograph Paige Stevens

It’s your day – have fun with it!

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Paige Stevens Photography

EXIT Stage Left!!

By Tommy Waters

Once the “I Do’s” are said and the cake has been cut, your night doesn’t have to end! If you want to have one of those hugely popular exit pictures (that you know you drool over), you can easily make that happen. So, what are some popular ways to do a grand exit?

1. Bubbles! You can’t go wrong with bubbles. They reflect light beautifully and if everyone blows them at the right time, they create a magical picture that will give you the warm and fuzzies every time you look at it! Also, they are super easy to transport and last a very long time. Not only can you order them early, but you can have a bunch since they are usually in very small containers. It’s a win-win!

2. Sparklers! Sparklers are an amazing way to get that one-of-

a-kind picture that will be amazing to look at forever. You can easily order these online, and it can be done early so you don’t need to stress. (Pro Tip: Sparklers are not allowed either by facility policy or by the law in some towns, counties, and cities. Make sure to confirm with your venue that they are allowed before ordering them.)

3. Glow Sticks! These are VERY popular and are growing

more and more by the day. They are not wet like bubbles or hot like sparklers, but they show up great in pictures. You can get unique and fun shapes, too.

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4. Confetti! Did you know that you can get biodegradable

confetti that is safe for outdoors and won’t hurt the environment? It’s TRUE! Confetti is amazing in any exit pictures, and it really makes a statement. Plus it floats, which eliminates the need to throw it at the same time like bird seeds.

So skip the boring exit! You can have a truly memorable moment for just a few dollars delivered right to your door. Once you choose the perfect exit just coordinate it with your planner and/or venue, and you will be set to make yours amazing!

Tommy Waters is a wedding planner, event coordinator, published writer, national public speaker (and skilled bartender) with The Renaissance, an all-inclusive wedding ceremony and reception venue based in downtown Richmond’s exciting Arts District. To learn more about The Renaissance, please visit www.renaissanceva.com.

The Estate AT INDEPENDENCE

Effortlessly Elegant

Sarah & Dave Photography

RECEPTIONS • REHEARSAL DINNERS • BRIDAL SHOWERS ENGAGEMENT PARTIES • OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS The Estate at Independence is the effortlessly elegant venue to make all of your wedding dreams come true.

The modern interior and impressive estate building nestled among expansive rolling hills with spectacular sunsets provides the perfect backdrop for any style bride. With numerous ceremony and reception sites, you are sure to find the perfect match. We provide everything you will need, and our experienced coordinators take care of all the details so you can focus on loving every minute of the experience.

OrrieGainesPhotography.com | info@OrrieGainesPhotography.com Studio: 804.308.2778 | Cell: 267.322.8077 804-601-8401 • events@playigc.com • 600 Founders Bridge Blvd, Midlothian, VA 23113

Planning Your Reception: The Key to Stress-Free Decision Making

By Mikey Fuller

When planning the wedding reception, there is so much to think about. The venue, caterer, florist, baker, rentals, etc. At first glance, it can look intimidating, but with the following questions, answers, and suggestions, you will sweep through the decision-making process stress-free!

How many guests will be invited? This will help you figure out the budget and the type of venue to look for.

Venue Considerations - When

planning the reception and dĂŠcor, you will want to factor in the type of lighting, wall and carpet colors, and amenities offered.

Some venues provide full-service with staff,

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food, set-up, tables, chairs, linens and place settings. Others are simply a space to have the event, and you are responsible for bringing everything needed. The venue may require you to work with a list of preferred vendors. In some ways this can be limiting, but in others, you will be working with someone who knows the space and has proven their worth to the venue owner.

When can vendors access the property to deliver the necessary items and setup?

Keep the budget in mind when choosing a venue. It may be a great price, but if there are lots of time-specific delivery requirements or after-hour pickups, these will all add to the overall expense. Additional questions

to consider are, how many guests will the venue hold, or if the venue is a tent, what do you want to fit under it? Under normal circumstances, for a formal reception, about 20 square feet per person is needed. For a stand-up style event, it is about six square feet per person.

Pro Tip: In this time of COVID-19, those estimates do not factor in social distancing recommendations, and would need to be at least doubled.

What are the wedding colors?

Be sure your colors don’t clash with the venue. Keep this in mind when choosing tablecloths and napkins. No longer are you bound to basics like black, white, or ivory.

There are hundreds of textures, patterns, and colors from which to choose. Not every table needs to be the same. The head table can feature a spectacular linen to draw attention to you. Copy this same linen to highboy cocktail tables to pull the “wow” factor around the room. Use a solid one on the cake table so the cake really pops. Can’t choose between many you love? Alternate them around the room. Fell in love with a pricy tablecloth or a busy pattern and don’t want to overdo it? Use it on a few tables and pick a more budget-friendly or subdued one for the remainder. Remember to know the table sizes when choosing linens.

What is the menu? Will there be a

meal or just appetizers? Will it be a buffet, waiter service, or family-style? Having the menu set before starting to design the place settings and tablescapes is a must. It will factor in what size tables are needed, how many guests that can be seated per table, and how many plates, glasses, and pieces of flatware each setting will need. A more formal menu requires a more formal place setting. Keep in mind this type of place setting will take up more space. For example, a 5’ round table comfortably seats eight adult guests, but if you are having a three-course or more meal, that size table can only accommodate six guests due to the additional flatware and glassware needed.

A four-course meal with wine pairings, a champagne toast, and coffee with dessert will require one napkin, one bowl, one cup and saucer, two knives, three forks, three spoons, four plates, and five glasses per

person. That’s a lot of places to set. And don’t forget to consult with your wedding team to see who will be responsible.

For appetizers and passed hors d’oeuvres only, not having

formal seating for everyone becomes an option. This is also a great budget saver for any event. Be sure to provide cocktail tables and some bar stools. Seating for 25% to 50% of the guest list is adequate for a stand-up cocktail style reception.

For buffet service, you may opt to only set the table with the necessary flatware for dinner and dessert or have the guests arrive to a plated salad, then go to the buffet for their meal.

For waiter service, guests could enter to a set table with a charger, necessary flatware and glassware for the meal, and each course will be brought to them.

For family-style, think about the tables themselves as you will need lots (and lots!) of room in the center of them. On a standard rectangular banquet table, there isn’t enough space in the center for all the platters of food, so it’s better to choose a round table, king’s table, or farm style table as these give extra wiggle room in the middle to pass the potatoes.

Additional Considerations -

For the table setting, is the caterer providing disposables or will you need to rent these?

Buffet service will require extra dinner plates and forks on the buffet. A rule of thumb is 1 ½ dinner plates and dinner forks per person.

For a stand-up cocktail style reception, you will want smaller 6” - 8” plates and need 2-3 plates and forks per person. Glassware is another monster that can’t be forgotten. You will need a minimum of one glass per person per hour of the event, plus the glassware for the table setting. Have an extra 5% of everything just in case something gets dropped or broken. Don’t forget the vendors!

While you don’t need to set a place for them, it is customary to offer a meal so have some extras. The caterer can help work out all the details. In fact, many will coordinate the china and glassware needed.

PHEW! Yes, this was a lot of information to take in, but knowing what to expect upfront will take the stress out of planning your dream reception. Once all these questions are answered and the team of dream vendors is in place, all you are your sweetheart will have to do is relax and enjoy the day!

Mikey Fuller is the Marketing Coordinator at Classic Party Rentals of Virginia. His photography, styling, and interior design work has been nationally featured. His quirky, yet elegant sense of style sets him apart from the rest. Reach out to him today for a consultation! ClassicPartyRentalsVA.com.

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Virginia Ashley Photography

Alex Mari Photography

Caiti Garter Photography

Savannah Faith Photography

Alex Mari Photography

804-921-8224 | barnattimbercreek.com

ELEVATE your Planning Experience

By Matthew Davey

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Relish Photography by Lee

Planning a wedding can seem overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Try to make the most of it! Here is a rough timeline and some ideas on how you can make your wedding planning less of a task and more of an experience.

Picking your venue and setting a date.

This is usually the first step in the entire process. Your venue will need to embody the emotion and overall experience you envision for your wedding day. It will also determine your wedding date. Venues generally book about 18 to 24 months in advance, maybe even further out due to COVID-19. So, keep that in mind if your heart is set on a specific date.

Picking your vendors.

The next step is finding your dream team of vendors. Find a team of professionals that you’ll enjoy working with throughout the entire process. These individuals will be with you every step of the way, so make sure they are people you’d want to have a meal with when it’s all said and done.

When selecting your vendors, make a priority list and book them accordingly. Plan on hiring your highest priority professionals about 12 to 18 months in advance. Do your research and get to know them.

Schedule a phone or video call to find out what kinds of services they offer and what their personalities are like. Find out if they are involved in the community and what they do in their free time. Yes, it’s ok to get personal with them! Remember, you’re going to be working with them for over a year, or more!

Once you have your core vendor dream team selected, have them all join you at the venue for a walk-through. This will ensure all of you are on the same page so everything runs smoothly on your wedding day. This could also coincide with you burying the bourbon at your venue one month out!

Picking your wedding party and guests.

You have your gorgeous venue and a dream team of vendors.

Now’s the time to plan the details. Decide who you want standing next to you when proclaiming your “I do’s.”

Whether it is your sibling or your bestie, these are your ride or die’s. These are the people that made bad decisions with you at some point, or maybe helped you make some really good ones.

That’s your wedding party.

Then there’s the rest of your guest list: your favorite aunt, your not-so-favorite aunt, the fun uncle, the crazy cousins, and your beloved grandparents.

These are the folks that you have known all your life, and you can’t wait to have them there when you say your vows. Don’t forget the friends you’ve partied with throughout the years, the ones that you’ve formed awesome relationships with or those you have worked with forever These are the people you plan on finding on the dance floor all night long. Big or small, make sure you invite those that are going to help you have the wedding day experience you want.

Nicki Metcalf Photography

Finalizing everything.

At about a month out, you should have a walk-through with your wedding vendor dream team, clink a few glasses of wine, and enjoy the final stretch. You pretty much have most of the details planned, now you just need to cross the t’s and dot the i’s, specifically your seating chart.

This is perhaps the hardest thing you’ll do. If you don’t have a professional planner to help you with this, you could invite your wedding party over for dinner and make it a fun selection process, like a draft day! Once wedding week arrives, finalize everything with your vendors, go over questionnaires to make sure everything is completed, and let your venue (or planner) know when the vendors and wedding party will be arriving. For those

Once you’ve picked the venue and your date, plan a date night every month on the same day as your wedding.

Maybe even make a whole day of it and mark some things off your checklist at the same time. When you get to one month out, consider the timely tradition of burying the bourbon upside down at your ceremony site. It brings good luck and is supposed to keep the rain away.

core vendors, consider meeting up with them in person before the big day. If you’ve become good friends by this point, you are going to appreciate how much just meeting up with them helps slow down the moment.

Your wedding is going to blow by so fast, you have to find ways to slow it down. You have to enjoy a little bit of fun to make the most of your planning experience and your wedding day.

Matthew Davey is the owner of Bow Tied Weddings, a high-end Wedding DJ service that operates in six states from Virginia to Florida.

Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, and Snapchat at @bowtiedweddings.

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Find everything you need for your RVA wedding!

RichmondWeddings.com

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MIKETOPHAM.COM

YOUR SPECIAL EVENT SHOULD BE A MASTERPIECE 804.340.1590 | specialevents@VMFA.museum

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Dimples and Cheeks

theappleblossominn.com | theappleblossominn@gmail.com | (804) 307-3239

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Avoid a Wedding Day

DISASTER

By Heather Hughes

Everyone has heard a story or two about a wedding day gone wrong. And while it’s impossible for every single detail to go according to plan, you can still try, right? Here are five common wedding day snags and what you can (try to) do to avoid them.

Wedding Day Disaster 1: VEIL TROUBLE

Heather Hughes Photography

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Don’t you love those long, flowing, chapel length veils?

They make for gorgeous wedding photos and are so dramatic. The super-short birdcage ones are cute, and the fingertip veils are the perfect in-between. But, every veil comes with its own challenges. First, wait until you are done driving around (if you can) to put it on. Veil material clings to EVERYTHING. The longer it is, the harder it is to control (think wind, hugs, etc.).

And be sure to ask for a few extra bobby pins from your hairstylist to anchor the clip to your head. That will help it stay put through all the hugs, or just in case dad steps on it while walking you down the aisle.

Heather Hughes Photography

Wedding Day Disaster 2: THE DRUNK BRIDE OR GROOM Every bride or groom deserves a glass of bubbly to help relax and calm the nerves on their wedding day. It’s a celebration after all, so let’s celebrate! But with all those nerves, you might forget to eat, or worse yet, forget to drink any water. Besides, wedding dresses are not known for keeping you cool. So be sure to drink a few bottles of water, even in the cooler months, to help you avoid any embarrassing moments at the ceremony and reception.

Wedding Day Disaster 3: TRIP DOWN THE AISLE Every bride fears tripping on the gown walking down the aisle. Even with the best seamstress and remembering to wear your wedding day shoes to the alteration appointments, those gorgeous heels can catch the edge of the dress. What you can do to help is practice kicking up a little when you walk, which will help the dress float up and away from your toes. Plus, it can actually look nicer in photos by adding a little float to your dress as you walk.

Heather Hughes Photography

Wedding Day Disaster 4: WARDROBE MALFUNCTION Whether you spend thousands of dollars, or get a bargain at a consignment store, we all want to look AMAZING on our wedding day.

Here are a few things to watch out for when it comes to your carefully selected wedding attire.

Grooms: Check your rentals at the store! So many times the sleeves are too long or the pants are too short. Or worse, the shoes are too tight. It only takes a minute. Be sure to relay this to your groomsmen too!

Brides: Attempt to have your dress done months ahead of time so you can try it on beforehand and check how it fits. While not ideal, you will still have a little time to make adjustments a month or two before if necessary. If you have straps or sleeves, use the hanger strings until the last minute so you don’t stretch them out, and then be sure to cut off the strings before walking down the aisle. The last thing you want to see are white strings in your armpit! You can always have new ones sewn back in if you need them.

Wedding Day Disaster 5: WEAK BUSTLE For those of you new to the term, “bustling” is when the long train of the wedding dress is shortened. A bustle is created by sewing in a few hidden ribbons or loops and is typically used before the first dance to allow for tangle-free dancing. Most bridal shops would agree, ribbons hold much better than loops or buttons. So if you go with loops or buttons, MORE is better. And be sure to wait to bustle until after you are done climbing in and out of cars since scooting across the seat can tear them. Someone stepping on the dress on the dance floor can do the same thing though! For a lighter destination dress, at least three to five loops work best. For heavier dresses and longer trains?

Go for the ribbons.

Heather Hughes Photography

Heather Hughes is the CEO of Heather Hughes Photography. Williamsburg based, Heather Hughes Photography travels all over the Richmond area, from Washington, D.C. to the Outer Banks, NC and west to Charlottesville, Virginia, to capture stories of love and laughter for her clients. Contact Heather at 757-870-4006 or on her website: www.heatherhughesphotography.com.

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RESERVEHIGHLANDS.COM

804.796.7881 | EVENTS@RESERVEHIGHLANDS.COM

Your next chapter begins here.

13497 ashland road 64

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|

ashland, va 23005

|

oakdalerva.com

WEDDINGS at CO MM ON HO US E House opens Fall 2020 Booking Now: shelby@commonhouse.com

We offer all-inclusive dining, beverage, and furnishing service with

uniquely Richmond touches to

a built-in rain plan, custom tailored

make each wedding a one-of-a-

to meet any need. Special add-ons

kind celebration.

include: a private bridal party suite

With both indoor and outdoor

Courtesy of Bonnie Sen with Linda Ha Events

At C o m m o n H o u s e , Historic design elements are blended with

with complimentary pastry platters

settings, guests can move from one

and champagne, valet parking ac-

area to the next and enjoy a differ-

commodations, and a kid-friendly

ent atmosphere: a cocktail outside,

film for younger attendees in our

a dance party within.

screening room.

www.commonhouse.com/events

434—566—0192

305 West Broad St., Richmond, Virginia.

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Paige Stevens Photography Paige Stevens Photography

Paige Stevens Photography

Historic, newly restored venue in the heart of Ashland with 3,000 square feet of venue space. depotashland.com 107 S. Railroad Ave, Ashland, Virginia

Whispering Pine Plantation

perspectivephotoco.com

804-621-3489 | whisperingpineplantation.com awhisperingpinewedding@gmail.com

12641 N. Lodore Road, Amelia Court House, Virginia 23002 R I C HMO NDW E D D IN G S.C OM

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Robbie Hickman Photography

Realize Your Dream and Make a Difference

By Marissa McCormick Jordan

In the rolling hills just west of Short Pump, peace and quiet replace hustle and bustle as you venture down US-250, a route that leads you to historic Goochland county.

Then, there’s a collection of unsuspecting barns and houses, that from the outside looks like another property, but in reality, holds so much more.

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Robbie Hickman Photography

South View Farm, located less than 30 minutes from downtown Richmond and 45 minutes from Charlottesville, is home to Virginia Barn Wedding, The Manor House, and most importantly, Adams International School. On a rainy day, and only days before school started, the Richmond Weddings™ team sat down with Tamra Adams, School Director, and the one who, understandably, makes all the wheels turn.

Pulling onto the property it’s hard to miss Virginia Barn Wedding, as it’s a giant red barn standing stark against its lush green surroundings. Although the outside looks like a classic barn, the inside was gutted and renovated, with the purpose of hosting celebrations. The pictures speak for themselves when it comes to the venue, and with 131 acres (on that side of the road, there’s another 125 on the other side) there is no maximum guest count. Additional buildings adjacent to the barn allow ample room for the couples and the wedding party to get ready. A charming and modern cottage is also available to rent for the newlywed’s first night as a married couple.

Just walking distance from the barn is The Manor House. And like everything else on the property, there’s a story behind the house. Tamra explains, “The house was my children’s childhood home.” With 12 kids of her own, the Adams family needed the 11,000 square foot space. She continues,

100% of the profit from weddings is donated to the school.

“But after they grew up, we didn’t need that much space and decided to downsize.

Instead of having strangers live on our property, we thought it would be the perfect spot to dedicate to weddings and events.”

The three-story building was completely renovated after they moved out and was designed with events in mind. It can sleep 10-20 guests and has a variety of amenities including a furnished patio that overlooks a pond, a giant kitchen, and even a movie theater and game room! Imagine your close family and wedding party staying under ONE roof! Turn your wedding into a weekend getaway and have your rehearsal dinner

Robbie Hickman Photography

Robbie Hickman Photography

on the bottom level, or rent it out for an anniversary party later down the road.

Being only 12 minutes west of Short Pump, it’s perfectly situated with easy access to I-64. Tamra and the rest of her team understand the guidelines and struggles of planning a wedding amidst COVID-19 restrictions. Tamra says, “We have plenty of room to social distance.”

When couples are looking to book any of the properties, Tamra wants one thing to be completely clear. “Every decision that we make is with what is in the best interest of the child.” 100% of the profit from weddings is donated to the school. You see, attending Adams International School is different than a traditional route. Being a Montessori program, a child’s education is based on timeless core values, and instead of grade-chasing and hours of homework, they create an active community that encourages students to discover while learning. Their website elaborates, “We seek to plant the seeds of lifelong education. The soil is tilled, prepared, and cultivated, respectfully and individually.” With a commitment to host no

Robbie Hickman Photography

more than 40 students, the gorgeous Virginia backdrop is the ideal place for education. Why not learn about biology from the goats and chickens on the property behind the school?

Each venue has customizable, buildable packages to create the wedding of your dreams. Virginia Barn Wedding and The Manor House at South View Farm are hidden gems and have a story and family history to match. You and your sweetheart can find comfort in knowing your celebration will fund learning in an exceptional educational environment that celebrates individual gifts and needs. Tamra jokes, “You can get married here then once you have kids you can bring them back for school!”

Adams International School | Virginia Barn Wedding | The Manor House Tamra Adams 804-784-0141 adamsinternationalschool.org

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TH E DAY YO U’ L L A LWAYS

REMEMBER D ES E RV E S A LO C ATI O N

YOU’ L L N E VE R

FORGET.

You’ve been planning and dreaming of this day for a long time. At the Omni Richmond Hotel, we are committed to delivering you a day that is nothing short of spectacular. Share every plan and dream with us — the details are our specialty.

OMNIHOTELS.COM/RICHMOND

PLANNING MADE PERFECT

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Celebrate with us!

BRIDAL SHOWERS WELCOME PARTIES CEREMONIES & RECEPTIONS SEND-OFF BRUNCHES GUESTROOM BLOCKS

Endless possibilities at The Richmond Marriott Downtown

Meredith Hall Meredith.hall@whitelodging.com 804-343-6905 500 E BROAD ST. RICHMOND, VA 23219 Michael and Jasmine Photography

The Perks of a

Restaurant Rehearsal Dinner

By Amy Cabaniss

The rehearsal dinner is often seen as the “appetizer” menu of the wedding festivities, and you’ll want to ensure that guests are wowed.

Hayes & Fisk Photography

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When it comes to your rehearsal dinner, many couples decide to host the occasion at a local restaurant. Not only is this optimal for out-oftown guests, but it can also help take the stress off of a couple that simply wants to show their party a good time in the city they love. Here are just a few reasons why hosting one at a restaurant can have a major payoff.

Customized Menu

If you’re seeking a menu with variety, uniqueness, and personalization, a restaurant rehearsal dinner is perfect. Many are not only equipped to handle large-scale orders, but they are also able to plan a personalized menu just for your special day. This is especially important for guests with special allergies who may not otherwise have many options. Couples should select one close to their venue that illustrates the type of “vibe” they are going for, casual versus intimate, for example. You’ll be asked to provide a “per head” price point, and from there the chef will work his or her magic.

You’ll be able to create a menu that appeals to all tastes while also fitting within your budget. Your guests will leave satisfied and excited for the wedding festivities to come.

Specialized Service

There’s no substitute for good service. An event could have an excellent menu, but that means nothing if the staff provides poor service. Couples hosting rehearsal dinners at a restaurant can trust that their event will go off “without a hitch,” with expert-level waitstaff ready to serve everyone.

Budget Conscious

As noted before, restaurants are typically flexible in working within your budget. A rehearsal dinner hosted at a separate site may incur costs that you didn’t budget for. Things like furniture rentals, refreshments, and bartending staff. A major benefit for a rehearsal dinner at a restaurant is the streamlined costs since you’re using an existing location that has a proven track record.

The rehearsal dinner is often seen as the “appetizer” menu of the wedding festivities, and you’ll want to ensure that guests are wowed.

Choosing one that accurately portrays your personality and taste is a great way to kick off the celebrations!

Amy Cabaniss is the Owner of Julep’s New Southern Cuisine. Julep’s is one of Richmond’s top upscale restaurants, offering quality service, creative and seasonal cocktails made with local ingredients, and Southern dishes inspired

by Atlanta, Charleston, New Orleans, and Savannah cuisine. Julep’s is great for private parties, celebrations and rehearsal dinners.

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PRIVATE DINING PERFECT FOR YOUR NEXT SPECIAL EVENT

301A MALTBY BLVD 804.360.1090 WESTCOASTRVA.COM GREENGATE SHOPPING CENTER IN SHORT PUMP

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420 E. Grace St, Richmond, VA 23219 For reservations 804.377.3968 www.juleps.net

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AFTER THE AISLE

Tips for Planning Your Marriage

By Tammy Edwards

Emily Bartell Photography

For months (or maybe even years) you’ve been planning the perfect wedding. You found the perfect dress, the perfect venue, and the most scrumptious food. It may take approximately 175 to 500 hours to plan a wedding. That is equivalent to working a fulltime job for two months! You have read magazine articles, scaled every website that exists, and spent hours on the phone with your planner. But how much time did you spend planning your marriage?

There are four C’s to a loving and long-lasting marriage.

Communication, Collaboration, Commitment, and Compromise.

Communication is key to any good relationship. Women are generally very good communicators. They may talk with their friends for hours on end. Men on the other hand, may be of few words. It’s important to have open and healthy communication before the stroll down the aisle. Good discussions for you and your partner to have should include how many children you each want, if any, and how to raise them. Do you foresee a big house in the suburbs or a life in the bustling city? What about finances? Who is going to be responsible for which household expenditures and who will determine the budget?

Don’t forget about holidays! They can be a point of contention, especially when you have been accustomed to spending them with your respective families. Spiritual and religious beliefs should also be discussed at length, especially if you and your spouse are of a different faith.

Collaborate on everything. Work together on big purchases and projects. Most choices for the home should be made together, not in 80

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isolation. Once married, your spouse is your partner and teammate.

Work together!

Commitment, of course, has do to with staying faithful, but also means working with your spouse. Every day of the marriage will not be sweet songs and roses! You will disagree, but agree to disagree cordially and remain committed to working out any differences. This may require counseling after the wedding and into the marriage. No matter what, stay the course. And always in your conversations, try to see things from your spouse’s point of view.

Last, but certainly not least, compromise. You cannot have your way ALL of the time. Marriage takes compromise. You can’t go to your parents every Christmas and leave your spouse’s parents out. You want a dining room set; your husband wants new golf clubs. Which is more important? It’s not the end of the world if he sometimes doesn’t put the toilet seat down. Just lower it yourself and move on.

Marriage takes work, but it’s worth it. Many couples who have been married 20, 30, 60 years have stood the course because their love for each other pushed them to work through the difficult days and enjoy the fruits of marital bliss. These four C’s will make for a beautiful wedding and an even more wonderful marriage.

Tammy Edwards is the Owner/Operator of The Candy Lady. Tammy started her business after designing a buffet for her 30th high school class reunion.

Buffets may include candies, cookies, popcorn, doughnuts, and anything sweet that you desire. She also creates customized gift baskets, boxes and favor bags for all occasions. Learn more here: http://thecandylady1.godaddysites.com.

Always Custom. Never Duplicated.

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A True Taste of Europe in the Heart of Downtown

Catering & Events Services • Engagement Parties • Wedding Receptions Rehearsal Dinners • Bridal Luncheons • Bridal Showers 804.780.0086 | 27 West Broad St Richmond, VA 23220 rockcreekvadc@yahoo.com | bistrotwentyseven.com

Alex Tenser

Alex Tenser

Ashley Link

venues + catering Betty Clicker

events@havana59.net

w ww.ha va na 59 .co m

804.780.2822

PRIVATE DINING

3411 WEST CARY STREET 804.353.3411 I EASTCOASTRVA.COM R I C HMO NDW E D D IN G S.C OM

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PRIVATE ROOM AVAILABLE

Engagement Celebrations | Bridal Showers | Bridal Luncheons | Rehersal Dinners | Receptions

GreenGate | 12221 W Broad St | Henrico, Va 23233 804.869.5338 | redsaltprivatedining@gmail.com | www.redsaltrva.com

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www.wildgingerrva.com jgray@eatrp.com

3734 Winterfield Rd Midlothian, VA 23113

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VENUE DIRECTORY ALTRIA THEATER

6 North Laurel Street - Richmond, VA 23220 804-592-3339 - Ad page 32

THE APPLE BLOSSOM INN

6311 S. Courthouse Rd. - Providence Forge, VA 23140 804-307-3239 - Ad page 61

ATLAS 42

4032 Cox Road - Suite A - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-965-0420 - Ad page 46

BAR SOLITA

123 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23220 804-308-3605 - Ad page 81

THE BARN AT TIMBER CREEK

525 Holman Mill Road - Farmville, VA 23901 804-921-8224 - Ad page 55

BISTRO 27

27 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23220 804-780-0086 - Ad page 82

THE BOATHOUSE AT CITY POINT

701 West Randolph Road - Hopewell, VA 23860 804-616-4222 - Ad page 27

THE BOATHOUSE AT ROCKETTS LANDING

4708 East Old Main Street - Richmond, VA 23231 804-622-2628 - Ad page 27

THE BOATHOUSE AT SUNDAY PARK

4602 Millridge Parkway - Midlothian, VA 23112 804-744-2545 - Ad page 27

THE BOLLING HAXALL HOUSE

211 East Franklin Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-643-2847 ext. 20 - Ad page 59

BON SECOURS TRAINING CENTER

2401 West Leigh Street - Richmond, VA 23230 804-592-3339 - Ad page 70

CEDAR LANE

9040 New Kent Highway - New Kent, VA 23124 804-514-2077 - Ad pages 42-43

CELEBRATIONS AT THE RESERVOIR

4801 Woolridge Road - Moseley, VA 23120 804-739-9015 - Ad page 38

COMMON HOUSE

305 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23220 434-566-0192 - Ad page 65

THE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER AT GLEN ALLEN

2880 Mountain Road - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-261-6211 - Ad page 60

WANT TO SEE MORE ?

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YES

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CHECK OUT MORE DETAILS AND VENUE PHOTOS ONLINE AT RICHMONDWEDDINGS.COM

CUMBERLAND ESTATE

9007 Cumberland Road - New Kent, VA 23124 804-514-2077 - Ad pages 42-43

THE DEPOT

107 South Railroad Avenue - Ashland, VA 23005 804-357-9702 - Ad page 67

THE DOMINION CLUB

6000 Dominion Club Drive - Glen Allen, VA 23059 804-360-0091 - Ad page 53

DOMINION ENERGY CENTER

600 East Grace Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-592-3339 - Ad page 32

DOVER HALL

1500 Manakin Road - Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103 804-784-6051 - Ad page 40

EAST COAST PROVISIONS

3411 West Cary Street - Richmond, VA 23221 804-353-3411 - Ad page 83

THE ESTATE AT INDEPENDENCE

600 Founders Bridge Boulevard - Midlothian, VA 23113 804-601-8401 - Ad page 49

THE ESTATE AT RIVER RUN

2421 River Road West - Maidens, VA 23102 804-887-0171 - Ad page 52

HANOVER TAVERN

13181 Hanover Courthouse Road - Hanover, VA 23069 804-510-0212 - Ad page 35

THE HARD SHELL - BELLGRADE

11400 West Huguenot Road - Midlothian, VA 23113 804-464-1476 - Ad page 79

THE HARD SHELL - DOWNTOWN

1411 East Cary Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-643-2333 - Ad page 79

HAVANA 59

16 North 17th Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-780-2822 - Ad page 83

HENRICUS HISTORICAL PARK

251 Henricus Park Road - Chester, VA 23836 804-748-1131 - Ad page 66

HILTON GARDEN INN RICHMOND INNSBROOK

4050 Cox Road - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-521-2900 - Ad page 72

HISTORIC MANKIN MANSION

4300 Oakleys Lane - Richmond, VA 23223 804-737-7773 - Ad pages Inside Front Cover & 1

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225

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120

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VENUE DIRECTORY HOTEL WEYANOKE

202 High Street - Farmville, VA 23901 434-658-7500 - Ad page 59

THE JEFFERSON HOTEL

101 West Franklin Street - Richmond, VA 23220 866-247-2305 - Ad page 3

JULEP'S NEW SOUTHERN CUISINE

420 East Grace Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-377-3968 - Ad page 78

LA GROTTA RISTORANTE

529 East Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-644-2466 - Ad page 77

LINDEN ROW INN

100 East Franklin Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-225-5841 - Ad page 54

MADISON AT THE MILL

323 North Madison Road - Orange, VA 22960 540-308-5874 - Ad page 33

MAGGIANO'S LITTLE ITALY

11800 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23233 804-253-0910 - Ad page 76

MAIN STREET STATION

1500 East Main Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-646-1862 - Ad page 7

MAMA J'S

415 North 1st Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-337-7678 - Ad page 99

THE MANOR HOUSE AT KINGS CHARTER

9400 Charter Crossing - Mechanicsville, VA 23116 804-550-0020 - Ad page 54

MAYMONT

1700 Hampton Street - Richmond, VA 23220 804-358-7167 - Ad page 26

MONROE PARK

6 North Laurel Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-592-3339 - Ad page 70

MOSS SIDE MANOR

8501 New Kent Highway - New Kent, VA 23124 804-514-2077 - Ad pages 42-43

OAKDALE

13497 Ashland Road - Ashland, VA 23005 info@oakdalerva.com - Ad page 64

WANT TO SEE MORE ?

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INDOOR

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CHECK OUT MORE DETAILS AND VENUE PHOTOS ONLINE AT RICHMONDWEDDINGS.COM

THE OLD ORIGINAL BOOKBINDER’S SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE

2306 East Cary Street - Richmond, VA 23223 804-643-6900 - Ad page 58

OMNI HOTELS AND RESORTS

100 South 12th Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-344-7000 - Ad page 72

THE PLACE AT INNSBROOK

4036-C Cox Road - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-346-2100 - Ad page 66

RED SALT CHOPHOUSE & SUSHI

12221 West Broad Street - Henrico, VA 23233 804-869-5338 - Ad page 84

THE RENAISSANCE

107 West Broad Street - Suite 300 - Richmond, VA 23220 804-649-3373 - Ad page 39

THE RESERVE AT THE HIGHLANDS

8136 Highland Glen Drive - Chesterfield, VA 23838 804-796-7881 - Ad page 64

RICHMOND MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN

500 East Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23219 804-343-6905 - Ad page 73

ROMA RISTORANTE ITALIANO

7240 Bell Creek Road - Mechanicsville, VA 23111 804-559-9200 - Ad page 98

THE SAVORY GRAIN

2043 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23220 804-592-4000 - Ad page 94

SEVEN SPRINGS

6831 Dabneys Mill Road - Manquin, VA 23106 804-769-2358 - Ad page 47

STONEHENGE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

1000 Farnham Drive - Richmond, VA 23236 804-378-7841 - Ad page 67

TARRANT'S WEST

11129 Three Chopt Road - Richmond, VA 23233 804-205-9009 - Ad page 81

TAZIKI’S

4024-C Cox Road - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-588-3718 - Ad page 98

UNITY OF BON AIR

923 Buford Road - North Chesterfield, VA 23235 804-320-5584 - Ad page 85

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VENUE DIRECTORY VIRGINIA BARN WEDDING

1655 Broad Street Road - Maidens, VA 23102 804-784-0141 - Ad pages 28-29

THE VIRGINIA CLIFFE INN

2900 Mountain Road - Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-382-0500 - Ad page 34

VIRGINIA HOUSE

4301 Sulgrave Road - Richmond, VA 23221 804-340-1800 - Ad page 61

VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

200 North Arthur Ashe Blvd. - Richmond, VA 23220 804-340-1590 - Ad page 60

VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND CULTURE

428 North Boulevard - Richmond, VA 23220 804-340-1800 - Ad page 65

WAVERLY ESTATE

11586 Courthouse Road - Lunenburg, VA 23952 434-321-4032 - Ad page 41

WEST COAST PROVISIONS

301A Maltby Boulevard - Henrico, VA 23233 804-360-1090 - Ad page 77

THE WESTIN RICHMOND

6631 West Broad Street - Richmond, VA 23230 804-282-8444 - Ad page 71

WHISPERING PINE PLANTATION

12641 N. Lodore Road - Amelia Court House, VA 23002 804-621-3489 - Ad page 67

WILD GINGER

3734 Winterfield Road - Midlothian, VA 23113 804-869-5338 - Ad page 84

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GO TO RICHMONDWEDDINGS.COM AND CLICK ON THE VENUE DROPDOWN. USE OUR VENUE FILTER TOOL TO NARROW DOWN YOUR OPTIONS!

Relish Photography by Lee

caterers Let’s talk food! Your wedding menu is an extension of you and your sweetheart’s personalities. Whether that be a menu filled with your favorite foods or cuisine that matches the theme of your big day, our amazing caterers can help make it happen. Here we will help you brainstorm your dream menu and provide some mouthwatering inspiration along the way!

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Hayes & Fisk Photography

Daniel Marks Photography

Daniel Marks Photography

Leslie Nichole Photographer

Paige Stevens Photography

Daniel Marks Photography

Perfect Bite!

Finding That

By Kristen Walker 92

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When planning your big day, many things come to mind that you want to be memorable.

The venue, the dress, the flowers, the music, and the delicious food!

Choosing a caterer can be a lot of fun, but there are some tough decisions you might encounter when deciding which company to select. Here are some helpful tips when comparing caterers to help you make the right choice and to find the best fit for you and your sweetheart.

1. Be thorough in your wants, desires, and preferences!

The more information you can provide your caterer in the beginning, the better equipped they will be to offer the most all-inclusive quote. Are there favorite foods you want or is there a special concept you’d like to see? Don’t worry if you have never planned an event before or don’t know what information to ask. Caterers are there to guide you through the process and put all the pieces together for a seamless event.

2. Pay attention to the customer service.

When you call or email to get a quote, the response should be helpful, detailed, and make you feel at ease. You should also be given a timeframe to receive a proposal.

During busy months, many catering coordinators have limited time at a desk to correspond with clients. Be prepared that it may be a couple of weeks before you get a proposal during these times and set your expectations, so you are not chomping at the bit the next day when you haven’t received a response.

While it is difficult to be patient and wait for that proposal, it shouldn’t be viewed as a negative. It means this particular catering company is diligently taking care of their current clients and ensuring their events are a success, which is ultimately what you want them to do for you!

3. After you get the proposals

Every caterer puts together proposals a little differently, which can make it challenging to compare them directly. The important key items to look for are the following: - Is the menu meeting your needs?

- Does it reflect the foods you want to see?

- Where is the food being prepared? Does it give specifics?

- Are the details accurate? Are the start and end times for the ceremony and reception listed correctly?

- Does it tell you who is providing what? Are you responsible for rental items? If so, which ones?

- Have beverages been listed clearly? Do you need an ABC license with this venue?

- Is there enough on-site staff to make your event a success? How many bartenders? How many servers and chefs?

If your initial proposal doesn’t spell it out, always ask your catering contact to make sure your expectations are met in every way and all the details are covered.

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4. Now onto the tasting

Erin Schrad Photography

It’s time to move to the exciting part…tasting the food! Most caterers offer tastings for couples, but each one does it a little differently. Some may provide an assortment of items to showcase their style, presentation, or flavor, and some will provide the specific items that you are choosing for your event. When deciding on items to taste, pick dishes that you are trying to compare or that are not as obvious in the presentation. Don’t be surprised when you are charged for this opportunity, which ranges from $75- $150, mostly to cover the cost of the items and the chef’s time to prepare. Most caterers do this. You wouldn’t go to a restaurant and not expect to pay, right? Tastings are like eating a meal prepared just for you.

Once you have selected and contracted the caterer of your choice, sit back and let them do the job you hired them to do. Caterers have seen it all and will guide and assist you in creating the best day ever! Their advice comes from years of experience, so trust them.

Leslie Nichole Photographer

Share with them as much information as you have: other vendors involved, plans for the wedding party before and after, favors, etc. They will have the largest staff on-site for the duration of the event and the more knowledge they have of the big picture, the better they can anticipate the next step and be an integral part of pulling it all together. It takes a team to make it all happen!

Kristen Walker is the General Manager for A Sharper Palate Catering & Events. A Sharper Palate has been a premier caterer in the Richmond area since 1993 and services a variety of events including rehearsal dinners, weddings, birthday parties, galas, fundraisers, and corporate lunches and dinners for the office. To learn more, check out their website www.asharperpalate.com.

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Romantic Friday Weddings

Emily Bartell Photography

at Dusk

By Paula Clark Ramirez

One of the most common comments that couples make after their wedding is “It all went by so fast!” You spend months planning the perfect celebration, somehow manage to get all of the people you love in the same spot, and then in four or five short hours, it’s all over!

What if you could extend the party from a few hours to a few days and enjoy a longer wedding weekend?

Holding a beautiful dusk wedding on a Friday is a great way to extend the celebration and enjoy time with your friends and loved ones on a relaxed timeline.

Friday evening weddings leave your whole Saturday free. You can plan smaller events that allow you to socialize when the spotlight is off. Schedule a casual Saturday post-wedding brunch and an evening pub crawl. Or book a laid-back all-day excursion. Your imagination is the limit!

The wedding industry considers Saturday evenings gold. They are in the highest demand and usually cost the most. Friday night weddings may actually save you money and open up weekends that you thought were previously out of the question due to existing bookings. Be sure

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to ask your venue and vendors if there are special rates for Friday evening weddings – you may very well be pleasantly surprised.

Friday dusk weddings also give you more time to relax. There is no rush to get up at the crack of dawn to get your hair and makeup done. Instead, you can take some time to enjoy your morning with a massage or a small private lunch with friends before you start to get ready for the festivities.

A little-known benefit to Friday evening weddings is that they can help you pare your guest list down to include only the people who matter most to you. Since Friday is a workday for many, not everyone can take time off to attend. View that as a positive since only your best and closest friends and family will make the effort to be there, and that is exactly who you want surrounding you when you say I do.

Whether you are more concerned with extending your party beyond just a few hours to a nice long weekend or you simply want to keep your guest list under control, you’ll find Friday dusk weddings are a romantic, often underestimated, yet wonderful opportunity to make your wedding goals and dreams come true!

Paula Clark Ramirez is the Proprietor of Historic Mankin Mansion Private Wedding & Event Estate in Richmond, VA. Paula and her husband Martin have lovingly restored this National Landmark to its original grandeur and are honored to share this treasured landmark with couples and their families.

The property features stunning architectural views and is the past recipient of countless awards and features in Forbes, Orbitz, The Travel Channel, Martha Stewart Weddings, The Huffington Post and Oprah Magazine.

804-740-6301 12379 Gayton Rd Richmond, VA 23238

Don’t Forget to

Serving the Richmond area since 1979!

Private Dining Room | Full Service Mobile Kitchen Catering Weddings, Rehearsal Dinners, & Any Special Occasion

Romaristoranteitaliano

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Feed Your Vendors!

“Feeding your vendors a hot meal during your wedding weekend is not only an etiquette courtesy, it’s really a requirement if you want them to give their all. Vendors rarely have time to stop to eat, but if they can have a 5-10 minute break for some nourishment, that will really enable them to give their dedicated energy to your celebration!”

–Kim Moody with Kim Moody Design

SOUTHERN CATERING FULL SERVICE • PICK UP • DELIVERY • FESTIVALS RENTAL OPTIONS UPON REQUEST

Find us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @MamaJsCatering 804-337-7678 | www.mamajskitchen.com catering@mamajskitchen.com

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Heather Hughes Photography

rentals Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve booked your venue, now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to fill the space. Rentals, amongst other things, are essential!

Have you ever shown up to an empty wedding? No! In this section we share everything you need to know about finding the perfect lighting, tables, chairs, and more to bring your wedding to life!

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YOUR GO-TO GUIDE:

Booking Wedding Rentals

By David Darby

“How far in advance do I need to book my rentals?” might be one of the mostasked questions that rental companies receive. It’s the perfect question to start with! Some rental items are one-of-a-kind while others are stocked by the thousands, so with all this variation, when do you reserve what?

First things first, season matters. If you are having your wedding in the spring or autumn in Virginia you are within “wedding season.” This is when the majority of couples get married and inventory is in higher demand than the summer and winter. If your date falls within this timeframe you may want to book further ahead.

12 - 8 MONTHS OUT Beat the crowd. After you book your venue and caterer you are able to accurately assess what additional items you may need to rent. Does your venue have a fully stocked kitchen or do you need an oven? Is it an indoor venue or will you need tenting? Some venues are all-inclusive and only require minor aesthetic rentals, while some are more like a perfect backdrop in which you need to bring in the majority of the items.

The rentals you should prioritize booking are specialty items that are only stocked in limited quantities. Lighting and tents are typically a top priority and should be something you lock in early. These items are essential to your space and the choice between different styles of lighting or tents can define the theme of your wedding. A sailcloth tent is going to create a vastly different mood than a clear tent, and many other services are going to depend on choices like this. You would typically use different lighting methods for each of these tents and each type offers different attachment points for both lighting and florals.

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This is also the time to book your statement pieces. Are you looking for that perfect archway? Or maybe custom manufactured wooden poles for your tent?

Don’t forget the fabulous chairs that make the room pop! Get these booked before everyone else!

8 - 6 MONTHS OUT Life is good! You have your guest count narrowed down to an approximate number and are working on your first layouts. At this point, you want to have a general style in mind. This is going to help when reserving tables, chairs, dancefloors, and all the other hard goods for your wedding. These items are going to be the core of your space, where your guests sit, where the food is served, and so on.

Having a style in mind will help you make choices between various rental items. Would you rather have bare wood tables or beautiful linens? Would you want rustic-style chairs or something more modern?

EmilyaBartell When determining how many tables and chairs to rent goodPhotography rule of thumb is to reserve for your highest estimate guest count and then back the numbers down after you start getting RSVPs.

6 - 4 MONTHS OUT It’s getting real! You’re just a few months out and your vision is coming together. Your Pinterest board is full and invitations are about to be mailed. By now you are refining your style and are ready to choose your tabletop items and decor. Schedule an appointment with your wedding rental vendor, get in the showroom, and start mixing and matching! You’ll want to determine your ideal plates, flatware, glassware, linens, and napkins at this point in time. This is the perfect time to see your vision come to life and get a glance at how Emily Bartellto Photography your full space is going to look and feel. It is also common bring your planner and florist to these meetings to make sure the items you picked compliment the rest of your decor.

4 - 2 WEEKS OUT Your wedding is right around the corner! You have RSVPs back in hand and it’s time to refine your orders. Hopefully, this involves slightly lowering quantities of tables, chairs, and place settings. Remember, it is always better to reserve higher than your estimated guest count and reduce quantities than to reserve for less and scramble to find additional items last minute. At this point, you also want to further refine your delivery and installation time windows. Once that is done you can kick back and relax!

We know it sounds overwhelming, but your rental professionals will be there to help. Getting these big decisions squared away early will leave you at ease and relaxed as you start your wedding planning.

David Darby is a Wedding and Event Specialist at Rent-E-Quip, an awardwinning, full-service rental company based out of Colonial Heights and serving all of Central Virginia. Be sure to visit Rentequip.org, Instagram at @rentequipva, or call 804-520-7100 to get in touch!

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With over 175 years combined experience in the wedding and event industry, our rental consultants, warehouse staff, and delivery crew will work with you from start to finish making your wedding experience a seamless transition from party planning to PARTY PERFECT! Arli Quinn Photography

We carry everything from tents, staging, dance floors, tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware, and flatware - all of your wedding rental needs in one place! Contact one of our consultants to schedule a “play date” in our newly renovated showroom and warehouse so you can see all we have to offer for your big day!

Call us at 804-359-2400 or visit our website at www.partyperfect.com

to love, honor, & “chair”ish

Arli Quinn Photography

Joanna Hartsook Photography

The I do’s are done, now it’s time to

PARTY!

Capture the Moments PIXRUSPHOTOBOOTH.COM · (804) 513-4393 108

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804.402.7397 · info@socialpartybooth.com www.socialpartybooth.com

EmmiClaire Photography

attire It's time to talk about what you're going to wear! Together with our tips, we'll help you find the perfect attire for you and your sweetheart.

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EmmiClaire Photography

A Consignment and Sample Bridal Boutique Located in Downtown Richmond Virginia 20 East Main Street | bluesagebridal.com

J&D Photo

J&D Photo

WHERE INSPIRATION MEETS CREATION! Walk down the aisle wearing exactly what you envisioned â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a gorgeous, one of a kind wedding gown made exclusively for you.

(804) 513-9165 www.inspiredbytthedress.com MandiLynn Photography

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HOW TO

Say Yes TO YOUR DRESS

By Caryn's Bridals, Formals, & Tuxedos

Heather Hughes Photography

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You found your soulmate, said “YES!”, and you’ve set the date. Now it’s time to find that special dress that’ll take everyone’s breath away. So where do you start? Most brides enthusiastically take to the internet and gather up bridal magazines (like Richmond Weddings™!) to check out new trends and discover what styles they love, but what’s the protocol for going to a bridal salon? Here are some of our best tips to take with you on your shopping journey so you can navigate through the world of bridal like a pro!

Set your budget.

To quote Martha Stewart, “Shopping without a cutoff point is like driving without a gas gauge,” and it’s a rare bride that can actually shop without concern for the cost of her gown.

The budget should be roughly 10% of your total budget, so let that number be a starting point. You can increase or cut back depending on how important the dress is to you.

Make an appointment.

Salons ask that you have an appointment to ensure that you have a dedicated consultant who can help pick out gowns, offer guidance, and get you in and out of the dresses, which is not an easy task alone! If you are a walk-in, most salons do all they can to accommodate you, but there may be a long wait if the staff is busy assisting other customers.

RW TIP: With COVID-19 restrictions, bridal salons are operating as appointment-only.

Research their website and social media to see current restrictions and appointment policy.

Choosing your entourage.

Paige Stevens Photography

This is one of your most important shopping trips, and you’re going to want trusted counsel there. You’ve heard the saying about too many cooks in the kitchen? This applies to bridal shopping as well. Too many opinions can lead to confusion and heartbreak, so it’s best to limit your party to two to four of your closest family and/or friends.

Bring pictures.

Now that you’ve likely gotten lost in the wistful wedding wonderland that is Pinterest, save the gowns you love and share them with your consultant. Even if a shop doesn’t have a specific dress, they almost always have a very similar style you can try on.

What should you wear to your appointment?

A loose, comfy outfit and as few layers as possible (weather permitting) are key. You’ll want to wear nude-for-you undies and a strapless bra, and spend a little extra time doing your hair and makeup. This will give you a confidence boost and help the consultant understand your personal style better.

RW TIP: Try not to wear too much makeup at your appointment. The last thing you want is your face to transfer to a pretty white dress! This will help you feel comfortable getting the dresses on and off, and you won’t have to worry about potential makeup mishaps.

Be on time.

Appointments are usually only an hour and a half long, and your consultant will likely be working with another bride after you. It’s ok if you’re running a little late (we’ve all been there), but be aware that this can cut into the appointment time. If you are concerned with making a decision too hastily or feel like you need more time, no worries! Ask your consultant about making a second appointment to come back and try on your favorite gowns with fresh eyes.

Relax and have fun!

Take a deep breath and dive in! Remember: this whole experience is a celebration of your love story. The world is going to melt away when you and the love of your life lock eyes at the end of that aisle, so don’t sweat the small things. Bring a bottle of champagne and have a smile at the ready, you’re getting married!

For over 30 years, Caryn’s has provided the perfect blend of selection and personal service to help ensure your bridal or special occasion shopping is an enjoyable experience. Schedule your appointment today visiting their website: www.carynsbridals.com or calling 434-392-5111.

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Keep Your Dress Flawless!

By Debra Shepperson

It’s the week after your wedding. The champagne has popped, the cake has been cut, and you’re finally coming down from that wedding high. The gorgeous dress that looked perfect on you now sits in your closet. But before it collects dust, you should clean and/or preserve it. With a professional’s help you can ensure your gown is preserved for future generations or another bride down the road.

Cleaning should be the first step in this process. The quicker you can get the wedding dress to a professional cleaner who specializes in this, the better. Brides often wait up to three months to do this.

Unfortunately by this time, stains will have set in. Try to take your gown the very next day after your wedding. If you’re leaving for a honeymoon or simply don’t have time, rely on a friend or family Preserving shoes: member to help out.

Depending on the shoe Consulting a local professional preservation service is your best bet to ensure you know the best options. They know exactly how to treat your dress and will consider the combination of fibers, fabric, and trims of your specific gown.

The basic cleaning price starts at $150 and if you select a museum preservation, your cost can be upwards of $500.

material, you may be able to include them with your dress in a preservation box.

Preserving bouquets: Bouquets can be pressed framed and hung on a wall.

For this process, the flowers are coated in wax or epoxy resin to preserve them.

Be aware of many national services who offer a low price. They may outsource to a wholesaler to provide bulk services which means your dress may not get the personalized service that a local company will provide. Also, be sure you know how long the cleaner guarantees the gown will remain pristine.

You said yes to your perfect dress, why not preserve its beauty for years to come, especially if you’re planning on passing the gown down through generations. Years from now when your daughter wants to play dress up, you’ll be happy you took it to a professional!

Debra Shepperson is Co-Owner of Relish Photography by Lee, a full-service wedding and portrait photography company. To learn more about Relish’s wedding collections and services, please visit www.relishphotosbylee.com.

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Available at

Tiffanys Bridal

www.tiffanysbridal.com

Available at

Tiffanys Bridal

www.tiffanysbridal.com

A N N A L I S E B R I DA L .CO M

A Consignment and Sample Bridal Boutique

EmmiClaire Photography

Every couple has a love story.

Let me tell yours!

www.leslienicholephotographer.com | 850.865.0669 |

@leslienicholephotographer

EmmiClaire Photography

photography One of the best wedding investments you can make is hiring a photographer. As years go on, the photographs from your wedding will remain a beautiful reminder of the happiest day of your life. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to find one you connect with to capture your special day, and luckily we have plenty to choose from!

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FEATURED CONTENT

HEATHER HUGHES

PHOTOGRAPHY: From Newspapers to Newlyweds

By Marissa McCormick Jordan

When choosing a photographer for your wedding, clicking with them is the number one priority. Not only are you trusting them with capturing the big day, but they’ll also share almost every moment. More than family, and even your new spouse, your photographer will be with you, experiencing it in real-time.

It was this connection, being an integral part of someone’s story, that brought photographer Heather Hughes from the photojournalism world to a full-time wedding photographer in 2008. From her high school yearbook to her college paper, to eight years shooting for newspapers, Heather has always loved taking pictures of people.

She explains, “The reason I wanted to get into photojournalism is because I liked to capture moments that are important to people to remember.”

But most of the people Heather photographed, she never spoke to.

As a journalist, you have to get used to being a part of someone’s life for a very brief moment, enough to get the perfect quote or that ideal front-page photo. Craving that relationship, Heather started to dabble in weddings in 2002, capturing her close friends’ weddings with that signature candid style.

As of 2019, Heather has shot around 400 weddings. And with this expansive and impressive experience, she’s learned the key to natural, candid photos. “Laughter is the key...I say things to help

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them relax and to laugh. I do whatever I can.” And her pictures speak for themselves. Gone are the forced, stiff, and posed pictures.

Instead, Heather’s couples look totally relaxed. Heather says, “I don’t want you to look like a model that’s pissed off!”

Looking at feedback from her previous couples, the words easy-going, stress-free, and extremely professional are repeated.

You know when you are in the presence of someone that’s been doing their craft for a long time? That’s what it feels like talking with Heather. She states, “Experience settles nerves.” No matter what happens on your wedding day, chances are she’s seen it before and can help you laugh through it.

Along with knowing the secret to good pictures, there’s also an innate appreciation of photos and the impact they have. “Photos are our memories. They bring you back, they help you remember what you were doing. I love being able to relive moments and share them with others.” The significance of being your wedding photographer isn’t lost on Heather. If anything, having a background in photojournalism, she understands it better, that the idea of the perfect shot is fleeting, momentary, and waiting to be captured.

Heather is not only looking to create a relationship for one day, but for many years to come. Like her Client for Life program, which offers portraits of you and your family every year Heather is in business.

Or her Military Elopement package, where she’ll capture quicker courthouse weddings, giving it the documentation and attention it deserves. And when the wedding gallery is ready, rather than sending you a link, she likes to invite couples to her office to celebrate, excitedly reliving the moments you both shared over champagne.

And although she’s based out of Newport News, Heather will travel pretty much anywhere, including the Outer Banks, for those gorgeous beach weddings.

Choosing a photographer for your wedding is easier said than done.

It’s hard to find that needle in the haystack that you’ll harmonize with completely. With Heather, you’ll not only find a photographer passionate and experienced in what she does but a friend, genuinely interested in capturing one of the most important days of your life.

Heather elaborates, “By the end of the wedding process, I feel like we’re friends, practically family.”

Heather Hughes is booking for 2020 and beyond. Visit her website: www.heatherhughesphotography.com or email heatherhughesphotography@ gmail.com to book and find out more information! (757) 870 - 4006

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Relish Photography by Lee

How Many Hours of Photography Do I Really Need?

By Debra Shepperson

There is no argument over the importance of hiring a professional photographer for your wedding. The keepsakes from that day will be treasured forever. The question then becomes, how many hours of photography are needed on your wedding day? The simple answerâ&#x20AC;Ś it depends.

When capturing moments of your beautiful day, you need to choose which ones are most important to the both of you. And based on your wants, you will need to make sure your photographer is hired for enough hours to capture those details. Establishing a wedding day timeline will ensure that they are.

First, consult with your wedding planner and include the photographer when discussing the wedding day timeline. You may even want to schedule a meeting in person. Here you will be able to make sure the photographer is hired for the correct number of hours.

During this detailed discussion, you will also be able to determine what photos are most important and what should be included in the wedding album.

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good shape to have the full wedding day captured at one venue. If not, most photographers will be pleased to add more hours to the contracted services.

Be cautious if your photographer is only offering 6 hours of service.

Typically, this will only provide coverage beginning directly before the ceremony or ending directly after the introduction at the reception.

If you are okay with fewer getting ready photos, then you might consider booking 8 hours of service. If you are not interested in a first look, then you are most likely safe with 10 hours of service.

Here is a sample timeline of the typical photos that can be captured over a 12 hour period at one venue to help you stay on track.

After reviewing this 12-hour wedding day timeline, discuss with your betrothed which images must be included and build a timeline that fits your budget.

Debra Shepperson is Co-Owner of Relish Photography by Lee, a full-service wedding and portrait photography company. To learn more about Relishâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wedding collections and services, please visit www.relishphotosbylee.com.

Wedding Day Timeline 10:30 AM

Photos of hung wedding dress and bridal details (veil, jewelry, shoes, invitations, perfume, rings, garter)

12:00 PM

Photos of venue details, ceremony site, décor, theme related items

12:00 PM

Photos of bride and bridesmaids getting hair and makeup done, bride reading note from groom, and other candid moments

1:00 PM

Photos of bride and bridesmaids in cute robes getting ready, toasting the bride, bride looking in the mirror, and the dress getting zipped

2:30 PM

Photos of groom & groomsmen getting dressed, details (socks, shoes, ties, cologne, boutonnieres and anything theme related), groom reading note from bride, groom and groomsmen playing games, goofing off, and other candid moments

3:15 PM

1st First looks · Bride with Mom, bride with Dad, groom with Mom, groom with Dad · Bride and Groom 1st first look · Couple portraits, bride portrait, groom portrait · Wedding party portraits · Whole group (bride, groom, and wedding attendees) · Bride with bridesmaids, bride with groomsmen, and bride with each bridesmaid · Groom with bridesmaids, groom with groomsmen, and groom with each groomsman

4:15 PM

Prelude, images of scenery, guests arriving

Relish Photography by Lee

Relish Photography by Lee

Relish Photography by Lee Relish Photography by Lee

5:00 PM Ceremony 5:45 PM

Bride and groom family photos

6:40 PM

Introductions and first dance

7:00 PM

Dinner and couple sunset/evening photos and candid photos

7:45 PM

First dances (Father of the Bride & Mom of the Groom)

8:40 PM

Toasts, cake cutting, and candid photos

9:25 PM

Dancing and/or night photos if time allows

9:25 PM

Wedding activities, shoe game, garter and bouquet toss

10:15 PM Last dance, DJ announces guests to assemble for exit 10:20 PM Couple exit (bubbles, sparklers, etc.…and do not forget the fun car photos)

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Add a “WOW” Factor to Cocktail Hour!

Emily Bartell Photography

relishphotosbylee.com info@relishphotosbylee.com | (804) 569-5070

By Kim Moody The cocktail hour is typically immediately following the ceremony before the formalities of the reception begin. Usually, during this time, you and the wedding party will be taking pictures, so it’s important that there’s a sense of entertainment for the guests while they mingle and socialize.

If the venue happens to be historically significant, architecturally interesting or has a fun history, the cocktail hour is the perfect time to highlight these unique elements. As your guests line up at the bar, give them a history lesson at the same time!

Connect with your venue, and see if they can provide a docent to lead a couple of guided tours during the cocktail hour downtime. If a guide isn’t available, perhaps organize a scavenger hunt with fun facts about the property. Consider a bingo-style card to send your guests in search of items to help them connect the dots. Fun games like this encourage movement throughout the property, and it’s a fantastic experience guests are bound to remember.

Every property has a story to tell and you can use that story as a tool to create a unique experience on your wedding day. At the very least, give them some fun facts about the property in their programs or on a cocktail napkin!

Kim Moody is a Proprietress and Director of Events at The Estate At River Run, the area’s newest luxury venue in Goochland. Kim is also the Lead Wedding Planner at the award-winning Kim Moody Design™, a multi-planner design studio (since 2004!) that offers services exclusively to clients at The Estate at River Run. Learn more on their website: TheEstateAtRiverRun.com

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ANGEL EXPRESSIONS PHOTOGRAPHY angelexpressions.photography 804.252.8091

Vibrant Authentic Full of life emmiclaire.com 804.286.6448

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Heather Hughes Photography

Why a

Videographer is a Must-Have

By Syndal Haun

The wedding industry has about as many elements as the newest season of Stranger Things. That being said, there is a lot to take into consideration when searching for the perfect vendor to capture your wedding.

While having a photographer may seem like enough, nothing quite lives up to being able to replay those precious moments years down the road.

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One of the biggest determining factors that come into play when deciding to hire a videographer:

Budget.

Like many integral wedding vendors, they can be expensive. However, videographers create a product that encapsulates one of the most important days in a coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life, which explains the cost. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too much of a stretch to hire a videographer, totally understandable. There is no shame in reliving the day through your Snap Chat video roll!

Emily Bartell Photography

videography When it comes to documenting your special day, having a videographer is of utmost importance. Trust us, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing like reliving those precious moments you shared with your other half and the loved ones who were there to celebrate with you.

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However, if you can cover the expense, do it. Here’s why:

Hayes & Fis k Photograph y

Remembering Details (Particularly Toasts & First Dances) Being able to watch your video is like getting to experience your wedding as a guest. Videos capture the story of the couple through hilarious memories, sentimental words, and genuine emotion. The words from toasts and vows can always be preserved on paper but it doesn’t compare to seeing the delivery live. Watching your first dance or when Uncle Jim roasts the groom can be a special way to share an anniversary or make a typical Thursday night a little more romantic.

Accommodating Friends Near & Far Hiring a videographer is a great way to give those who were unable to attend a look into your wedding day. This is especially beneficial for couples who have a smaller guest count or a destination wedding where inviting everyone isn’t an option.

Hayes & Fis k Photograph y

Society has become obsessed with the resources and creativity that goes into putting on an amazing wedding. From finding the perfect dress to hotel accommodations, there are so many options to find the right vendor for your day. Research is key when looking for your videographer. Components like venue, guest count, and personal connection with the vendor are things to consider when reaching out. You want to make sure they are trustworthy and communicative, so they know what you are envisioning. With all of that checked off, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your day!

Syndal Haun is an Event Coordinator at Celebrations at the Reservoir. For tours, pricing or more information on the property, please visit our website at www.celebrationsva.com or call our office line at (804) 739-9015.

Hayes & Fis k Photograph y Hayes & Fis k Photograph y

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Emily Blumberg Photography

Custom Wedding & Event Floral Design of 35+ Years No Minimums! Wholesale & DIY Opportunities

BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION! I C HMO ND W EDDI NGS MAGAZ IN E 1114140N. RArthur Ashe Blvd.

(804) 353 - 9600

WeddingsByVogue.com

weddings@vogueflowers.com

Paige Stevens Photography

flowers Flowers are the finishing touch when it comes to your wedding. From the bouquet you carry down the aisle to the centerpieces that adorn each table, the foliage you choose can take your decor to the next level.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve gathered tips for choosing the best flowers for your wedding and the professionals to bring your ideas to life!

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Popular wedding flowers by season

Winter

anemones, hellebores

Spring

peonies, ranunculus

Summer zinnias, dahlias

Fall

cosmos, coneflower

Jessica Lapp Photography

Heather Michelle Photography

Heather Michelle Photography

Information provided by Lauren Ross at Vogue Flowers

804-379-2514 main 804-213-2320 mobile: call or text

pandorasposies.com

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Exquisiteâ&#x20AC;Ś

Katie Nesbitt Photography

Victoria F loral Floral Design by

at Flowerama

2801-A Hathaway Road Richmond, VA 23225

(804) 560-7700

www.floweramarichmond.com | victoriafloraldesigns@gmail.com

1272 Alverser Plaza Midlothian, VA 804-897-6100

www.flowersmakescents.biz

Kristine Pringle Photographers

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Heather Hughes Photography

&5

music dance

The second best part of a wedding is the dance party that follows! We have a team of amazing DJs and musicians who know how to get everyone on the dance floor, yes EVERYONE! Get ready to bust a move!

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Start the Party with Your

First Dance

By Ashley Kipps and Jumarcelon Castro

Since the turn of the 21st-century, weddings have evolved from the traditional church setting to getting married in a barn! We’ve traded our camcorders for smartphones, and we’ve (thankfully) swapped puffy shoulder dresses for extravagant and sleek gowns. So why should your first dance still be “traditional?”

You spend so much time finding the perfect venue, the perfect wedding gown, and the perfect cake, but have you considered your first dance? It is just as important as all the above, and sometimes it can make or break the party.

We have all been to those weddings where the newlyweds DID NOT prepare for their first dance. You don’t want to be that couple! Your guests want to see excitement, thrill, and you and your new spouse going out there and letting loose. This gets everyone excited and eager to PARTY!

This is where taking lessons will come in handy. Whether you want to recreate a scene from your favorite movies, like Cinderella or Dirty Dancing, or fix two left feet, having professional instruction ensures that your first dance dreams become a reality. Plus, lessons will not only help create a memorable first dance but will also teach lifelong skills that can be shared throughout your marriage together.

Imagine every anniversary being able to go out and dance together to your favorite songs. Or being able to dance on a cruise, at a concert, at a friend’s wedding, or in the middle of cooking dinner on a Tuesday night. Lessons will help you and your partner do this confidently verses memorizing a routine eventually forgotten.

Now the question is should you choreograph a routine or learn how to social dance together?

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Emily Bartell Photography

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More than 35 years of experience and pricing that won’t break your budget!

Over 35 years of experience as a: • Radio Personality • Television Spokesperson • Nightclub Entertainer • Voice-Over Talent • More than 2,500 weddings and special events

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“Roger did a wonderful job at my niece’s wedding on July 11th! Great dancing music to keep the celebration going and great personality!!! I would highly recommend him!!!”

“Everyone loved you and you did such an amazing job keeping the energy moving and fun happening. Thank you for adding so much joy to the celebration! If you hadn’t been there it would have been such a different experience.”

www.MoonlightVA.com 866-969-3838

LET’S STAY IN TOUCH

3 SECRETS YOUR DJ WON’T TELL YOU EricHerod.com/secret

Lyric String Quartet Let us frame your picture perfect event with the elegant sounds of the Lyric String Quartet.

Weddings, Receptions, Cocktails & Dinners

Jacquelin Spears 804.233.1642 lyricstringquartet.org

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Every style. Every budget.

Everything you’ve ever dreamed.

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featured weddings

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*All information in our Featured Weddings section was provided by the couple.

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FEATURED WEDDING

KATRINA &5BRANDON May 31, 2019

RW VENDORS Shower Location: The Dominion Club | Reception Site, Cake, Flowers, Accommodations: The Jefferson Hotel | Photobooth: Social Party Booth ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photographer: Amy Anaiz Photography | Rehearsal Dinner: Big Mamma’s Events | Videography: Paperboys | Ceremony Site: 31st Street Baptist Church | Officiant: Dr. Alvin Campbell | Ceremony Music: Silverleaf String Quartet; Organist Ms. Juana Thompson | DJ’s: DJ Lonnie B and The Masters of the Ceremony, Danja Mowf Gown: The Ivory Suite, Martina Liana | Alterations: Grace Bridal Couture | Veil: Saint Alexis Bridal | Shoes: Vince Camuto | Bridesmaids Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids | Hair: Krown Beauty, O’Kiera P | Jeweler: Ricardo Basta | Formalwear: Groom – Tailoring by JB Clothiers; Groomsmen – The Black Tux | Invitations: Manhattan Repro | Transportation: RVA Trolley

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randon and Katrina locked eyes in the hallway of an investing workshop in Los Angeles in 2017. The two locked eyes and it was game over. They exchanged numbers and after their first date to a pop-up museum and their (now) favorite seafood restaurant, they were smitten.

Brandon, being the romantic, surprised Katrina with a birthday trip to New York in August 2018. She didn’t know where she was going until the airport! They started off the weekend with a romantic dinner for Katrina’s birthday and ended the weekend at The Statue of Liberty where Brandon popped the question. Katrina says, “New York will always hold a special place in our hearts.”

Their May wedding was held in the same church that Katrina’s parents were married and where her family has deep roots dating all the way back to Katrina’s great grandmother. They said their traditional vows then walked down the aisle to “Hallelujah” from Handel’s Messiah. “It was absolutely beautiful.”

“We wanted our wedding to be elegant with a southern flair.” They tied in that Virginia charm with dark pink and gold with accents of ivory, some of Katrina’s favorite colors. Their colors were carried throughout, with ivory linens and arrangements, and their gold monogram printed on all their escort cards, invitations, thank you cards and other printed messages.

Katrina and Brandon wanted their guests to have a good time while eating great food and dancing. The crowd loved their mirror photo booth by Social Party Booth, the perfect nontraditional way to capture some candid photos.

The couple’s advice for wedding planning? “Start planning early! Also, research your vendors and make sure you choose what you want for your wedding based on your tastes and not the wishes of others.”

Guest Count: 125

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ERIN PHILIP

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June 1, 2019

RW VENDORS Rehearsal Dinner: The Savory Grain | Ceremony/Reception Site/Catering: Celebrations at the Reservoir | Gown: Annalise Bridal, Watters | Flowers: Vogue Flowers | Transportation: Richmond Limousine | Accommodations: The Jefferson Hotel ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Justin Hankins Photography | Shower Location: Les Crepes Carytown | Officiant: Charles Fink | Ceremony Music: 2Hype Music Crew | Alterations: Fariba Bridal Alterations and Design | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Earrings: Marlena Dupelle Jewelry | Cuff Bracelet: Olive + Piper | Hair/Makeup: Lou Stevens Glam Squad | Jeweler: Jared the Galleria of Jewelry | Formalwear: Jos. A. Bank | Stationery: Minted | Sweets: Pearlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bake Shoppe | Guest Accommodations: Holiday Inn Express Brandermill | Spray Tan: Bombshell Beauty Lounge

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rin and Philip met on eHarmony in November 2017. They spent some time messaging back and forth before meeting up for lunch and planning their “real” first date. Erin says, “I call it our Marathon Date. It started with a trolley tour of Richmond…[then] Philip cooked me dinner and we went to a comedy show.” By the end of the date, it was clear they had found something special.

When talking about their proposal, Erin didn’t want anything too extravagant. A couple of weeks after their one-year anniversary, she was coming back from a trip and Philip wanted to show her something he’d been working on. Erin had no idea what was going on as he hooked up his laptop to the TV and started a slideshow.

Erin says, “It was full of pictures we had taken together, including our family and the people who mean the most to us, and then he asked me!” An intimate moment between two soulmates.

Celebrations at the Reservoir was the first venue Erin and Philip looked at, and they immediately knew it was perfect. “The venue included so much...the food and drink, a wedding coordinator, linens, suites for us to get ready, etc. that it helped me start the process and felt like so much had been taken off my plate already.” Their ceremony was simple and organic with a few sweet gestures true to them.

The reception was dreamy and romantic with soft muted colors and twinkly lights to set the mood. Vogue Flowers completed their vision with fabulous arrangements lush with greenery and in-season florals.

Their summer celebration ended with a sparkler exit for the newlyweds. The perfect ending to the perfect night.

Guest Count: 75 | Budget: $40,000-$50,000

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ASHLEY RASHEEDA

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August 10, 2019

RW VENDORS Accommodations: The Jefferson Hotel | Transportation: TNT Limousine

ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Sean DeWitt Photography | Shower Location: Mason Estates Farm | Videography: Fourth Quarter Productions | Rehearsal Dinner: Vinny’s, King William | Ceremony/Reception/Rentals/Coordinator/Catering: Hollyfield Manor | Officiant: Casey Dokoupil, EQ Events | DJ: DJ Darrell Scott | Gown/Veil: Urban Set Bride, Maggie Sottero | Alterations: Pleiades Bridal Design | Shoes: Betsey Johnson | Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie | Flowers: King William Florist | Hair: Lara Bridger, LGB Hair Designs | Makeup: Caly Emerson Woods, Caked by Caly | Jeweler: Kay Jewelers | Formalwear: Jim’s Formal Wear | Stationery: Minted | Cakes: Cakes by Pat | Accommodations: Hampton Inn Mechanicsville

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shley and Rasheeda met through a mutual friend who suggested the two get together based on their shared love of softball. Eventually, they agreed to a blind date. Three hours of good conversation and laughs (and four whiskey sours) later, they were smitten.

Ashley says, “Rasheeda knows my favorite foods are pizza and cupcakes!” So when Rasheeda was ready to pop the question, she knew she had to incorporate this into the proposal. On a typical weekly date, after dinner, they ended the night at a local cupcake shop. Rasheeda said she forgot the leftovers outside, but when she returned, she had a picture book of their relationship starting from the first time they met. As Ashley was reading the book, grinning from ear to ear, she found a note at the end with the proposal. “I dropped the book in disbelief to see her on one knee!”

The couple picked their particular venue because they were treated like family, plus it had an indoor space with air conditioning for their August wedding! At the ceremony, both brides were full of emotions. Rasheeda’s mother had just passed six months before, and they made sure to include her in every part of the day, including a reserved seat and a special bouquet. Ashley and Rasheeda said personalized vows to each other, their favorite part of the day. Ashley tells us, “Our wedding officiant got to know us personally and told our story better than we could have. It literally brought everyone to tears.”

The two settled on navy and blush for their colors, the perfect summer palate. The reception was full of fun and signature drinks like “The Queen,” a rum drink named after the newlywed couple. “I had dreamed of a gorgeous wedding with a bomb reception my entire life...and our entire reception was LIT! We had so much fun!”

Wedding Guest Count: 40 | Reception Guest Count: 110 | Budget: $22,000

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FEATURED WEDDING

CAMERON BRYCE

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September 28, 2019

RW VENDORS Photography: MJ Mendoza Photography | Gown/Alterations: Caryn’s Bridals, Formals, and Tuxedos

ADDITIONAL VENDORS Rehearsal Dinner: Capital Ale House | Videography: Yeattes Productions | Ceremony/Reception Site: The Barns of Kanak | Caterer: The Table at Wilton | DJ: Scott Titmus, All About the Music | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie | Hair/Makeup: Pearls and Perfection | Invitations & Stationery: Hand-made by Bride | Flowers: Eden’s Floral Designs | Rentals: Riverwood Catering | Cakes/Sweets: The Sugar Cave | Accommodations: The Graduate | Transportation: James Limousine 160

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ameron and Bryce met by total chance and decided to give it a go! For their first outing, Bryce asked her on a date to a speakeasy where they hit it off immediately and even shared their first kiss!

Bryce popped the question to Cameron in June 2018 during a trip to the Florida Keys. Cameron thought something might be up when Bryce was super stressed during airport security. Apparently, he had the ring in his bag! On their first day in Florida, they woke up early to see the sunrise over the water. This was a beach tradition for them and nothing out of the norm. Cameron explains, “We were getting ready to leave...and I heard him say my name...I found him on one knee, ring in hand!” Cameron, of course, said yes.

These two based their color scheme and theme off of the venue, incorporating ivory, greenery, and a light dusty rose. Cameron, who loves decorating, made the space perfect with carefully selected details and unique touches.

After their short (but oh-so-sweet) ceremony they hosted a cocktail hour with appetizers, followed by a family-style dinner. Cameron explains “The food was really important to us, but having everything look visually seamless from one end of the venue to the other was also just as important to me!”

When asked for her best piece of advice, Cameron said, “Don’t be afraid to ask vendors to tailor things to suit your needs. Keep your dream wedding in mind and don’t stop until you find the right people and vendors to help you perfect it along the way!”

Guest Count: 115 | Budget: $30,000

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FEATURED WEDDING

ABBY ADAM

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October 5, 2019

RW VENDORS Photography: Heather Hughes Photography | Ceremony Site: Virginia Museum of History and Culture | Reception Site/Wedding Consultant/Rentals/Catering: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts | Flowers: Vogue Flowers | Cakes: The Mixing Bowl Bakery | Accommodations: The Jefferson Hotel ADDITIONAL VENDORS Shower Location: The Daily Kitchen & Bar | Officiant: Betsy Rives | Ceremony Music: VCUarts Department of Music Students | Gown: BHLDN, Tadashi Shoji | Alterations: Cheryl A. Lofton & Associates | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal | Hair: Circle Square Salon | Jeweler: Brilliant Earth | Groom’s Tuxedo: Nordstrom | Groomsmen Formalwear: The Black Tux | Stationery: Jasdeep Khaira | Photobooth: Badass Booth | DJ: A Party’s Favorite Entertainment | Cupcakes: Pearl’s Bake Shoppe | Favor Donations: Michael J. Fox Foundation, Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Cure Alzheimer’s Fund | Accommodations: Delta Hotel 162

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bby met Adam in Atlanta while she was attending law school there. Their first date was at a local burger chain where they talked about The Lego Movie (one of Adam’s favorites from that year). The two clicked immediately and were inseparable from that moment on.

Adam asked Abby to marry him while on vacation in Cartenga, Columbia for New Years. On the last night of their trip, Adam surprised Abby with a ring. Abby explains, “Tears, and of course, an acceptance ensued.”

When picking a reception venue for their October wedding, they knew they wanted the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Abby has family connections to the museum, and it holds a special place in her family’s hearts. The pair was sold upon seeing the gorgeous Marble Hall and the quaint surrounding neighborhood.

For their ceremony, they had a small family celebration next door at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture. Abby’s sister officiated the ceremony and since Abby’s father’s family is Quaker, it is customary for all the guests (or witnesses) to sign a certificate solemnizing the marriage. Abby describes, “Everyone at our ceremony, down to the youngest guests, added their name to our certificate.”

They went with burgundy and cream for their colors and relied on trusted family, friends, vendors, and a touch of DIY to bring the wedding together. And when it came to the cake, they couldn’t decide on just one! Guests were presented both a cake and a variety of cupcakes. They happened to be celebrating two birthdays (Abby’s father’s and a close friend’s) so the extra sweets were perfect.

Their favorite part of the day? “Seeing all our friends and family in one place, dancing, dining, laughing, drinking, photographing, and celebrating with glow sticks.”

Guest Count: 170

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BRIANNA&5 THORNTON October 19, 2019

RW VENDORS Rehearsal Dinner: Hanover Tavern | Rentals/Lighting: Party Perfect | Luxury Restroom Trailers: Edmunds Waste Removal | Transportation: Richmond Limousine | Honeymoon: Journeys, Inc. ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Arli Quinn Photography | Shower/Ceremony/Reception Site: Private Estate | Wedding Planner: Angela Bowles, XOXO Weddings & Events | Caterer: Berryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catering | Officiant: Darvin Satterwhite | Ceremony Music: Cassie Byers | Gown Salon/ Veil: Ava Laurenne Bride, Justin Alexander | Alterations: Shannon, Mackenzie Clare | Shoes: Betsey Johnson | Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie | Accessories: Olive + Piper, Family Heirlooms | Hair: Alicia, FBJ Studio | Makeup: Kait Curnow | Jeweler: Tompkins Jewelers | Formalwear: Jos. A. Bank | Stationery: Basic Invite | Calligraphy: Savannah Xiradis | Flowers: Grey-Sol Designs | DJ: Dance Candy, Sam Hill Entertainment | Cakes/ Sweets: Country Style Donuts, Shyndigz 164

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rianna and Thornton met in high school, but it wasn’t until after college that they reunited and started dating. Thornton was playing softball one evening near Brianna’s parents’ house and invited her to come watch. Brianna explains, “We were inseparable after that!”

Thornton proposed on family land in Hanover. “We had always said that we would get married, build a house, and start a family on that land...It was so special when he proposed there as well.” It was just the two of them and once they got back home, Brianna was surprised to see their family waiting to celebrate.

It came as no surprise when Brianna and Thornton decided to get married on that same spot of land that is so special to them. “We couldn’t think of a better place to celebrate our love with all of our family and friends.” When planning their outdoor wedding, they didn’t want to sacrifice style. They elevated the space with a gorgeous tent from Party Perfect as well as luscious greenery and flowers, setting the ambiance. For their colors they went with warm, earthy tones, perfectly complimenting the fall leaves and crops that were in the field.

They had a traditional wedding with special details throughout. At their tented reception, they wanted their food and decor to really wow their guests. And with the help of their vendors, their guests’ jaws dropped when they saw the field transformed.

Brianna and Thornton’s favorite part of the day? “Dancing to the band with all of our family and friends! We love live music and dancing, so to have all our favorite people in one place to celebrate us in our favorite place in the world...it was an absolute dream come true!”

Guest Count: 200 | Budget: $40,000

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FEATURED WEDDING

HELEN ALEC&5 March 7, 2020

RW VENDORS Rehearsal Dinner: The Hard Shell Downtown | Ceremony/Reception Site: The John Marshall Ballrooms | Photobooth: Social Party Booth | Lighting: The Lighting and Sound Company | Jewelry: Diamonds Direct | Transportation: Richmond Limousine ADDITIONAL VENDORS Photography: Ray Photography Co. | Videography: PixImpress | Wedding Consultant: Bryce Carson, Roberts & Co. Events | Caterer: Homemades by Suzanne | Additional Baker/Caterer: European Deli | Officiant: Bryan Hannum, River City Officiant | Ceremony Music/ Band: Bachelor Boys Band | Gown Salon: Urban Set Bride, Mikaella Bridal | Gown Alterations: Pleiades Bridal Design | Veil: Bel Aire Bridal | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaid Dresses: Show Me Your Mumu | Hair: Cecily Morgan | Makeup: Kirsty Wingfield, Richmond Makeup Artist | Jewelers: Carreras Jewelers, Blue Nile | Formalwear: The Black Tux | Invitations & Paper Goods: Minted & SA Style & Design | Flowers: Black Creek Flowers | Rentals: Glamour Linens & Nomad Rentals | Fireworks: Imperial Pyro | Cakes/Sweets: Sweet Fix | Transportation: RVA Trolley | Accommodations: Delta Hotels by Marriott Richmond Downtown 166

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elen and Alec met in July 2015 in Blacksburg, VA while they both stayed in town over their summer break at Virginia Tech. Helen shared, “It seemed like the stars aligned for us that night because we actually met at a going-away party that both of us almost didn’t attend.” They had their first date the next week and the rest is history.

Alec asked Helen to be his wife while hiking Spy Rock in January 2019. Helen explains, “We had a little difficulty finding the beginning of the trail, but that made the summit even more worth it.” Once at the top, Alec got down on one knee and popped the question. And just like a movie, it started snowing! They celebrated immediately with a bottle of champagne Alec snuck to the top.

When picking the venue, they were blown away by the all-inclusive feel that The John Marshall Ballrooms provided. “We didn’t want our friends and family to have to worry about traveling to separate spots...and [we] fell in love with the gorgeous details of the ballrooms.”

For their theme, they wanted simple, warm, and romantic. “Although we were in a pretty big space, I still wanted the evening to feel intimate”. During the ceremony, they shared personal vows and incorporated their family background with a special bread and salt ceremony.

At the reception, they blew their guests away with a first dance surrounded by indoor fireworks! “As a surprise to everyone except us and Alec’s family, 15-foot sparklers surrounded the dancefloor for our first dance to a beautiful live version of ‘Ring of Fire’”. The perfect energizer to a night filled with dancing.

Helen and Alec’s advice to future couples? “Enjoy your engagement process and take several moments throughout your day to look around and really soak it all in!”

Guest Count: 142

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Wedding Inspiration

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@RVAWEDDINGS

Heather Hughes Photography

invitations Invitations are a sneak peek into your wedding, so be sure to make a great impression! This is a great opportunity to incorporate your colors and theme so your guests can have an idea of what your big day will be like. This section is full of inspiration and tips to create beautiful invitations your guests will want to keep forever!

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Wedding Invitation

FAQs Emily Bartell Photography

By Holly Peters Your Save the Dates and Wedding Invitations are your guest’s first impression of your wedding and the primary way of informing them what they need to know for your celebration. Here are some frequently asked questions that stationers are asked when meeting with couples.

Do I have to send out a Save the Date?

No, you don’t need to send out a Save the Date. This is a fairly new practice in the wedding industry over the last decade, but with the amount of time and expense that goes into a wedding, it is a great way to let your guests know the date and information ahead of time. Save the Dates are especially helpful for destination weddings since more planning is necessary. It’s always nice to give your guests extra time to make arrangements.

What information should be included on my Save the Date?

The main points of the wedding day are what needs to be conveyed. The couple’s names and picture (optional), date, and city/ state. One of the most important pieces of information you can give your guests is your wedding website. Websites do not belong on the wedding invitation which makes the Save the Date the perfect place to give them this information.

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When should I send my Save the Dates and Invitations?

Save the Dates can be sent out six months to a year in advance of the wedding. If your celebration is a destination wedding or during a busy time of the year, such as during summer vacation or a holiday weekend, you may want to send them at least six to eight months ahead of time so they can plan around these dates and arrange for time off work.

For wedding invitations, we typically recommend six to eight weeks. If you did not send a Save the Date, consider sending them out around the eight-week mark. Sending them out three months or more ahead of time has become a trend, but unfortunately, it hasn’t ultimately helped with people sending back responses.

Should I order invitations online?

There are a few reputable invitation sites, but the customer service is historically lacking and you have little recourse if there is a problem, misprint, or wrong information. There is usually no proofing with online companies so you are on your own for spelling and etiquette. Invitations are something that is best-chosen inperson by seeing and feeling the stock, the actual printing on the stock, and having a

professional to help you with etiquette. There are a lot of rules of etiquette that are involved in the designing and wording of invitations that you may not be privy to. You can avoid future embarrassment and hurt feelings by going to a professional.

The assumption that online invitation sites offer cheaper pricing is debatable, as most are digitally printed and mass-produced.

Unfortunately, once you make the upgrades to the paper, envelopes, etc., the cost is very comparable to a local stationer’s pricing, sometimes more. You indeed get what you pay for, and fortunately for local stationers, a cottage industry of “fixing” online invitation mistakes has emerged but that is an added expense that you could have avoided in the beginning.

What is the cost of an invitation?

Invitation pricing is determined by different factors. The printing process plays a large part. If you are looking for letterpress or engraving, these tend to be the higher priced invitation choices. Thermography and flat or digital printing are typically less expensive options. Paper or stock can go from luxe, thick cotton papers to more cost-effective, thinner stocks. Another factor that will affect the price is the number of pieces you need in your invitation suite. Most people require an invitation with an envelope, a response

card with envelope, and some need to add a details card or reception card as well. Keep in mind that a typical greeting card is around $5.00 each. A beautiful invitation can start anywhere from $4.00 - $5.00 each and go up from there.

Should I use a website for RSVPs? Websites are a convenient way to get information to your guests, and most offer a way to RSVP to the wedding as well. When trying to decide if you will do a mail-back response or have people reply online you need to think of everyone on the guestlist.

Just because it is convenient for you and your friends to answer online does not mean your grandparents and older guests can respond this way. Some don’t feel comfortable with this method, and some may not have the equipment. In many cases, couples include a phone number for them to call as well as the web address. In other instances, couples have printed enough of the mailed responses for those that would be more apt to answer in this manner. Either way, you want to be sure all your guests feel equally included and can easily respond to your invitation.

Where should I put our registry information?

Information about your registry should NEVER go on the invitation itself…EVER. When you invite someone to an event, especially something as special as a wedding, you are requesting their presence, NOT their presents. Including registry information can be seen as presumptuous and ill-mannered.

If you wish for your guests to have your registry information you can put it on your website, or you can add in another small card or on a details card in the invitation suite, or by word of mouth, but never on the actual invitation.

What postage costs should I factor into the cost of invitations?

Postage is often a forgotten part of the invitation process. The number of pieces you have in your suite, as well as the type of stock they are printed on, will affect the weight of the invitation, therefore, the cost of postage. Invitations typically require more postage than the average piece of mail. We

always recommend taking a fully assembled invitation to the post office and let them weigh it so you know exactly how much postage is required. Response cards require less than the invitation, but be sure to put a stamp on the response card envelopes when assembling the invitations so your guests can reply promptly. When taking your invitations to the post office we always recommend that you ask to have them hand canceled. This will decrease the amount of machinery sorting your invitations will incur, which will also minimize the chances of damage.

Holly is the Owner and Lead Designer of Papeterie Fine Stationery and Gifts in Bon Air, Virginia. With a lifelong love of design, she and her staff enjoy custom designing your ideas into beautiful invitations. Papeterie has been serving brides nationally and internationally for 30 years. For unparalleled design, wedding invitation etiquette, service, and one of Richmond’s favorite gift boutiques visit our website at papeterierichmond.com.

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Go Pro Beauty Heather Hughes Photography

for your

Wedding Day

By Amanda Perry

Let’s set the scene: you’ve got all the major details locked down for your big day, including the venue, the photographer, the cake, and, of course, the dress. You are so excited because your “friend” is going to do your hair and makeup for you and you won’t have to factor in that cost. She’s the friend who’s always done your hair for prom, the one who just happens to have some talent and so she’s happily agreed to do your hair and makeup.

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Heather Hughes Photography

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beauty health

Your wedding is the day you deserve to be treated like a queen. Not only should you be pampered, but having your hair and makeup professionally done ensures your look will be flawless all day longâ&#x20AC;Ś even through all of the happy tears!

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Fast forward a few months before the wedding, your friend decides something better has come along and she leaves you in a bind. (You wouldn’t believe how many times a year this happens to brides!)

Consider having a trial with your stylist to make sure you are both on the same page with your final look. Plus, at your trial, you’ll get to know your stylist better and you can connect about all the details of your celebration. They’ll get to know all about your groom, your wedding colors, your dress, and all those girly things that you have been itching to talk about with every single person you meet!

Now you’re scrambling to find someone that can accommodate your 10 bridesmaids and the rest of your wedding party, which is impossible because every salon you call is booked with regular hair care clients on Saturdays! How dare they! Don’t they know it’s YOUR wedding day!

This is one of the most important days of your life and all eyes are on you. The pictures will be hanging on your wall forever.

Don’t you want to be as polished as you can be? When looking for hair and makeup companies, choose an established business that specializes in wedding day services.

This will ensure a professional, organized team and will set the tone for the getting ready process to be smooth and fun. There are so many amazing companies in the Richmond area that will fit every bride’s style and budget. Make sure you are signed on with someone who has a contract to ensure they follow through on their end of the

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Stylists love what they do and have a true passion for weddings. They take all the stress out of getting ready and let you relax and have fun in their chair, and when you get up and look in the mirror, you’ll see pictureperfect bride or bridesmaid (and you didn’t even have to put down that mimosa to hold a curling iron!)

Heather Hughes Photography

bargain too! You don’t want to be left again with someone who cancels.

On-location hair and makeup teams come fully prepared with all the makeup, curling irons, bobby pins, and more to help you create the perfect look for your special day.

Amanda Perry is the owner of Amanda M Perry LLC, an on-location team of wedding hair and makeup artists. She spends her weekdays behind the chair doing cuts and colors, specializing in blondes!

Amanda has been in the Richmond area working with brides on their hair and makeup for the last 13 years! Visit www.amandamperry.com to contact her and the team!

candicehardymua.com |

@candicethemua

Making you feel beautiful inside and out on your wedding day. Professional and customized makeup services for brides and bridal parties.

Taylored Grace Photography

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The Secret TO GLOWING WEDDING DAY SKIN

By Marissa McCormick Jordan

It’s no secret that on wedding days, people want to look the best they ever have. Whether you’re the bride, groom, mother, or aunt, you’ve dreamed of this monumental day for years. During the wedding planning process is the perfect time to hit refresh on a look, finally tackling that insecurity or dull skin you can’t seem to shake.

The Richmond Weddings™ team sat down with Dr. Neil Agnihotri to talk about wedding day beauty and how his office, Agnihotri Cosmetic Facial Surgery, can have you looking and feeling the best on the big day and beyond.

Dr. Agnihotri is an expert on the face. With an extensive and impressive background in oral and maxillofacial surgery, his specialty is anything from the neck up. But before you start picturing invasive and intense surgeries that leave someone looking plastic,

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Dr. Agnihotri is striving for the opposite. He explains, “We want to enhance your natural beauty with minor adjustments.” In fact, if he doesn’t think a procedure is right for a patient, he won't do it. “We’ll work together to create a treatment plan that is best. If we can’t achieve a safe, natural-looking result, I won’t do it. I have to be able to sleep at night!”

The journey with Dr. Agnihotri and the rest of his team at his pristine Short Pump office goes like this: First, there will be an initial in-

person consultation. Then you’ll talk through goals and create a personalized treatment plan that works for your timeline.

When browsing procedures Dr. Agnihotri offers, the sky really is the limit when it comes to enhancements. But just like everything else in wedding planning, sticking to a timeline is important. So when should you start?

For the more surgical type options, like Eyelid Rejuvenation, Laser Skin Resurfacing, or a Face Lift, the process should begin a year to six months out. The earlier the better! The same goes for fillers like Botox and Dysport which are injections to reduce fine lines. “Six months is protocol so we can develop a treatment plan. If you were training for a 5k, you wouldn’t wear brand new sneakers the day of!”

The recent trend of having glowing, bright skin is not lost on Dr. Agnihotri. That’s why his top recommendation for wedding day beauty is a HydraFacial. Through a non-invasive skin-clearing procedure, you’ll leave with glowing skin in just 30 minutes. “You’ll get that healthy, dewy glow and the skin will be infused with antioxidants, leaving your face hydrated and refreshed.” Since it’s non-invasive, feel free to treat yourself to a HydraFacial the week of the wedding. And everyone knows, the key to beautiful makeup starts with beautiful skin!

“Feeling good in your skin should be for more than just one event, it should be for a lifetime.” Why not start the healthy skin/face journey on one of the biggest days of your life?

Contact Dr. Agnihotri and Agnihotri Cosmetic Facial Surgery and see their complete list of procedures on their website https://agnihotricosmeticsurgery.com/ or call 804.270.5028.

They are currently taking new patients.

Dr. Agnihotri is staying safe amidst the pandemic and their sterile, sanitized office is comfortable and private. And he’ll work with a potentially changing timeline. Dr. Agnihotri explained that he has a patient that had to postpone their wedding a whole year. No worries on his end, he just adjusted treatments accordingly, working with the new timeline.

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Oh-So

Sweet Treats

By Faith Anderson

What’s the first thing that pops into your head when you think of a wedding dessert?

Cake! It’s tasty and traditional, but lately, couples have started to break barriers and opt for additional sweet treats on their special day. There are loads of options for what you can serve as dessert along with your traditional cake. Let’s get into it!

1. Donuts

Everyone has seen the trendy photos of elaborate donut walls at weddings, and they’re SO fun! Whether you decide to go with a wall or just a simple spread to display, your guests will love them. They’re easy to grab with one hand and don’t tie your guests down to a table. They can munch on their donut and boogie all at the same time!

2. Candy

Candy is an awesome way to knock out two birds with one stone. Not only can you serve it as a compliment to cake, but you can also consider it your wedding favor to each guest. Prepackaged gift bags filled with all of your favorite candies can be placed at each table setting for guests to take home later that night. Or a candy bar that your friends and family can eat for mid-dance snacks! Everyone is sure to find something they love.

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Emily Bartell Photography

sweet treats Nowadays, cake isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the only dessert you can have at your wedding! Donuts, cookies, cupcakes, candy, and anything else you can imagine has become the norm. The sky is the limit with our group of bakers in this section!

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3. Cake Pops

Paige Stevens Photography

Cake pops are the modern twist on a traditional dessert! They are the perfect solution for those who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to give up cake entirely but want to spice things up a little bit. The best part about cake pops, you can customize them any way you want. Want to make them holiday-themed? Check! How about your wedding colors? Oh yeah! Just make sure you find a bakery that can accommodate all of your wishes and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re set.

BAKING TRADITIONS SINCE 1926 8540 Patterson Ave | Richmond VA 23229 | 804-288-2712

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4. Chocolate

Chocolate. Chocolate. Chocolate. There are so many different directions this tasty flavor can go in. One of the most unique ideas is to customize chocolate bars for your guests to enjoy. Consider designing a wrapper that has your wedding colors and date on the front. Not only does everyone get to enjoy a tasty treat, but you get to have fun designing a unique wrapper.

Westhampton Pastry Shop

5. Waffles

Breakfast food can be sweet, savory, or both! Why not let your guests decide. Consider having a waffle bar where people can top their treat with whatever they like. If they’ve got a sweet tooth they can go for toppings like crushed cookies, gummy worms, or maple syrup. Feeling savory? They can spoon chips, bacon, or ranch on top! The versatility of a waffle bar is sure to please.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to the sweet treats at your wedding.

Straying from the norm can have some pretty awesome results, like that waffle bar mentioned above! There’s no limit to what you can serve, so get brainstorming!

Providing elegant and delicious cakes since 1952

Come visit our bakery! Walk in cake tastings 5728 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23226

Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm

804.282.4413 • westhamptonpastry@gmail.com

718 N. Cleveland Street, Richmond, VA | 804-729-7555

Custom gelato carts for any party or event!

Stellar Images

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When faced with this question, there are some important factors to consider:

• Are we comfortable traveling during this time?

If you’re not, then you should postpone. You want your trip to be relaxing and if you’re nervous or anxious, then it won’t be as enjoyable for you.

• Is the time of year of my honeymoon or destination wedding a good time to visit the destination?

For example, oftentimes couples want to go to the Greek Isles for their honeymoons; however, unless you’re traveling from May-September, then it’s not a good idea due to weather and closures.

• Is there a high level of advisory for travel to/from the United States to this destination?

If there is, then you should reconsider your dates.

Safety is the most important factor!

Paige Stevens Photography

Honeymoon

Now or Later?

Traveling Safe + Smart During Uncertain Times

By Kim Goldstein

Sometimes life doesn’t go exactly as planned and that impacts your travel plans. COVID-19 took the United States by surprise in 2020 and forced a lot of happy couples to reconsider their honeymoons and destination weddings and move them to a future date.

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Once you decide on your travel dates, it’s best to ensure that you’ve taken the appropriate steps to protect your vacation investment. Always purchase travel insurance to help protect you agaiwnst unforeseeable changes to your plans. Keep in mind, travel insurance, like medical insurance, doesn’t cover everything. Review your policy for your coverage limitations. Many credit cards offer a very low level of coverage, which isn’t adequate for international travel.

The best protection you can get is to have a travel professional assist you with these plans. Should a major disruption like COVID-19 occur, this will be invaluable to you and your sweetheart. Trying to reach the airlines and resorts can be very challenging during times of weather issues, pandemics, etc. Travel Consultants will also be able to provide you with invaluable knowledge to help you make sound decisions about your travel plans. During times like this, it’s important to have a knowledgeable, trained professional on your side.

Kim Goldstein is a Top 25 Travel Agent as awarded by Travel Agent Magazine, a Certified Destination Wedding and Honeymoon Specialist, as well as a Wedding Wire Couples Choice Recipient and Richmond A-List Winner since 2014. To learn more about how she can help plan your dream honeymoon or destination wedding, please visit www.journeystravelinc.com.

honeymoons Once your wedding has come to an end, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to focus on you and your other half. Your honeymoon is the perfect opportunity to travel somewhere youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never been. Luckily, our experienced travel agents will take care of the stressful bits of planning, so all you have to do is RELAX! RW Tip: Be sure to check the expiration date on your passport!

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The Vacation Chic Amanda Roberts

We are travel advisors that specialize in helping busy, engaged couples plan dream honeymoons and destination weddings.

We take care of every single detail so that you can rest easy knowing that it will be perfect.

thevacationchic.com

(804) 370-8294 amanda@thevacationchic.com

Destination honeymoons for every budget.

When the experience matters, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to call a Professional.

CHRISTINE HARDENBERGER

804-833-8050 | christine@moderntravelpros.com www.palmtreesandrum.com

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HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE

Your dream honeymoon awaits at Sandals®, where you can enjoy your first memories of marriage in a paradise created for two people in love.

Dine at up to 16 distinct 5-Star Global Gourmet™ restaurants per resort, embrace each other in private pools set over the

waves and drift away in suites designed with unparalleled luxury and romance in mind.

THERE’S NO BETTER PLACE TO START FOREVER.

BOOK YOUR HONEYMOON NOW! JOURNEYS INC. 804-288-0188 JOURNEYSTRAVELINC.COM

Sandals ® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts. 6194/1219

EmmiClaire Photography

TRANSPORTATION LOGISTICS There are so many logistics involved when traveling on your wedding day, especially if each event is in a different location! Leave the stress of getting from Point A to Point B to a professional! By hiring a licensed and insured transportation company, you can rest easy knowing your timeline will go off without a hitch. Also, remember to allow for enough time between each location, including potential traffic. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to be late to the altar!

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Here is a sample timeline to use:

TIMELINE OF EVENTS

assuming a 5:00 pm ceremony start*

3:00 pm Pick up the bride and bridesmaids.

4:00 pm Pick up the groom and groomsmen.

5:00 pm The ceremony begins.

5:30 pm The ceremony ends. The average wedding lasts 25-35

minutes. (Adjust timeline accordingly if you anticipate a

longer ceremony.)

5:40 pm The guests are gone and the ceremony site is cleared.

5:55 pm Pictures begin. It usually takes about 15 minutes to collect the bride, groom and entire wedding party.

6:40 pm Pictures are completed. Time to head to the reception!* 7:00 pm Arrive at the reception. * If your ceremony site is at a different location than your reception, you will need to budget more time.

Paige Stevens Photography

transportation If your wedding day is taking place at more than one venue, one of the best investments you can make is providing transportation for your guests! Not only will this keep your day on schedule, but it will also be a relief for your guests to not have to worry about parkingâ&#x20AC;Śor having too much fun at the dance party after!

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Dream getaway.

Follow Us for

REAL WEDDING

Get-aways, bachelorette parties or bar hops, RVATukTuk is a great way to escape. Book your adventure.

inspiration

Nicole Sellers Photography

@RVAWEDDINGS PC#1950

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calendar

2021 Jan 1 Jan 18 Feb 14 Feb 15 Mar 14 Mar 17 Apr 2 Apr 4 May 9 May 31

New Year's Day Martin Luther King Day Valentine's Day Presidents Day Daylight Saving (Start) St. Patrick's Day Good Friday Easter Sunday Mother's Day Memorial Day

2021

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2022 Jun 20 Jul 5 Sep 6 Oct 11 Oct 31 Nov 7 Nov 11 Nov 25 Dec 25 Dec 31

Father's Day Independence Day (observed) Labor Day Columbus Day Halloween Daylight Saving (End) Veterans' Day Thanksgiving Christmas Day New Year's Eve

Jan 1 Jan 17 Feb 14 Feb 21 Mar 13 Mar 17 Apr 15 Apr 17 May 8 May 30

New Year's Day Martin Luther King Day Valentine's Day Presidents Day Daylight Saving (Start) St. Patrick's Day Good Friday Easter Sunday Mother's Day Memorial Day

2022

Jun 19 Jul 4 Sep 5 Oct 10 Oct 31 Nov 6 Nov 11 Nov 24 Dec 25 Dec 31

Father's Day Independence Day Labor Day Columbus Day Halloween Daylight Saving (End) Veterans' Day Thanksgiving Christmas Day New Year's Eve

Natalie Schutt Photography

planning tools The key to planning a wedding is ORGANIZATION. To help you start and finish strong, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve created a countdown checklist to keep you on track! Everything is covered, from buying your dress to securing your marriage license, all in one place. This list is essential, so take as many notes on it as you like. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we made it!

We also have downloadable versions of these helpful tools on our website, www. richmondweddings.com!

This section sponsored by The Estate at Independence, a full service, elegant venue with stunning views and gorgeous indoor and outdoor spaces for couples of any style.

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budget

The budget can be a stressful part of wedding planning.

Let this worksheet help you navigate this difficult task.

ITEM

BUDGET

ACTUAL

The Estate at Independence offers many breathtaking spots for portraits, ceremonies and receptions including these.

NOTES

Wedding Coordinator Wedding Rings Wedding Attire Gown Headpiece Veil Accessories Alterations

Reception Site Rental Caterer/Food Beverages Decorations Gratuities

Entertainment Ceremony Music Band/DJ

Photography Engagement Bridal Portrait Wedding Day Album Extra Prints

Videography Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Apparel Stationery Invitations Reply Cards Thank You Notes Postage SUB TOTAL 1 RECEPTION SITE When choosing a venue, be clear on what is included in the rental fee such as chairs, tables, linens, etc. Plan on 50% of your budget going toward the reception because this will include your venue fee, food, beverage, rentals, etc.

The Estate at Independence includes all these items as well as an onsite coordinator.

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CATERER/FOOD/BEVERAGE Before you sign the contract, be sure to look at the food and beverage minimums. If you are looking to stay within a budget, limit the bar to beer and wine or add a little bit of personality with a signature beverage!

The Estate at Independence has lowered its rental fee to help ensure you have a fantastic meal at your reception!

DJ VS. BAND When making this decision, know the rules of the venue and the space available. A 5-piece band is going to need more space than a DJ!

Many places, like The Estate at Independence, welcome both.

Awesomesauce

Natalie Schutt Photography

ITEM

BUDGET

ACTUAL

NOTES

Formalwear Groom’s Tuxedo Father’s Tuxedo

Flowers Ceremony Site Bridal Bouquet Attendants Parents Grandparents Reception Site

Officiant Marriage License Accommodations Wedding Night Other

Attendants Gifts/Gift Boxes Transportation Rentals Ceremony Site Reception Site

Miscellaneous Item 1 Item 2 Item 3 Item 4 SUB TOTAL 2 GRAND TOTAL FLOWERS Some ceremony sites speak for themselves and don’t need an abundance of flowers. You can then focus your floral budget on the reception space and really WOW your guests.

GRATUITIES For your caterer or food service, gratuity is always added into your bottom line, but you do have other wonderful vendors on the day of that you can treat. Keep this in mind when thinking about your budget. Be sure to arrange envelopes with each vendor’s name on it so your planner can easily handle it on the wedding day.

ACCOMMODATIONS Venues will often work with nearby hotels who can offer room block pricing.

Other venues such as The Estate at Independence offer custom onsite lodging for the newlyweds or family and the bridal party.

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wedding countdown checklist 12-18 Months

Determine the style of wedding you want – formal, semi-formal or casual

Hire a hair and makeup artist or team

Reserve hotel room blocks for guests

Decide how many guests you will be inviting before getting your heart set on a venue. The Estate at Independence can accommodate 300!

Set up cake tastings

Determine the order of the ceremony events. The Estate at Independence’s in-house coordinator will help you through this.

Send out your Save the Date cards

Start scheduling visits to wedding venues

Interview & choose a wedding coordinator

Figure out your budget & discuss who will be helping with which expenses

Choose & book a ceremony venue if separate from your reception location

Choose your wedding party

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4-6 Months

Consult with a professional lighting company

Select ceremony musicians

Meet with your DJ about music for your wedding dinner & reception

Nail down your reception venue

*As soon as the venue is booked, get wedding insurance. If the venue was to burn down or be inaccessible, the couple would be covered.

Consult your travel agent about honeymoon plans

Schedule fittings for men’s formalwear

Talk with a stationer about invitations, programs & other paper goods

Pick & reserve your perfect honeymoon destination

Shop for your wedding bands

Set up your wedding registry at your favorite stores or set up an online honeymoon fund

Reserve wedding day transportation

Carefully choose & reserve rental items

10-12 Months

6-9 Months

Set up tastings with caterers unless you have a full service venue like The Estate at Independence with a highly experienced culinary staff.

Start working with your coordinator on the wedding day timeline

Schedule appointments with bridal salons

Choose wedding party attire

Interview & choose a photographer

Find the perfect florist

Schedule your engagement photo session

Peruse the portfolios of videographers & find the right person to document your day on video

Find an officiant & meet with him or her to talk about ceremony details

Talk with your officiant about pre-marital coaching

Make sure your visas & passports are up to date

Nail down your caterer

Interview & choose DJ and/or Band

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Visit the Planning Tools page on RichmondWeddings.com to find our free downloadable Rental Return Checklist!

Finalize floral design

Order your wedding cake & if you’re a traditional Southern bride, order the groom’s cake

Send local activity information to guests

Make sure you have all of your travel immunizations

Keep up with your gown fittings

Consider dance lessons

Set up an outing for your groom. The Estate at Independence offers golf, laser tag, zip lines and more!

If you are planning on coloring your hair, schedule the appointment now. This will give you time to color correct if you don't like it

2-4 Months

2-4 Weeks

Send a wedding announcement to your local newspaper with a photo

Arrange professional addressing of invitations

Select gifts for the bridal party and each other.

This service is included with your package at The Estate at Independence.

Schedule hair & makeup trial

Make sure your bridesmaids have chosen the right shoes

Schedule final gown and men’s formalwear fittings

Make rehearsal dinner reservations

Consider planning a welcome party if you are having a lot of out of town guests

Schedule your bridal portrait session

Order favors or forgo favors & make a charitable donation on your guests’ behalf

Provide planner with welcome baskets for out-of-town guests

Think about adding late night snacks to your menu

Mail formal out formal invitations

Make it official – secure marriage license

Confirm wedding rehearsal time and address with participating parties

Confirm transportation and arrival times

Confirm hotel room blocks

Arrange to professionally clean & preserve your gown after the wedding

Write or choose your wedding vows

Finalize your wedding timeline and make sure a copy goes to all vendors. Another included service with The Estate at Independence!

1-2 Weeks

1-2 Months

Pick up wedding bands. Be sure to check sizes & engravings

Get your engagement ring cleaned so that it sparkles on your wedding day

Have final consultations with vendors. The Estate at Independence’s team will take care of confirmations and timing.

Send final guest count to caterer & venues

Remind the boys to pick up their formalwear & shoes

Make sure all written contracts with vendors are in place

Stock your bridal emergency kit

Go to your final gown fitting & be sure that your mom or Maid of Honor learns to bustle your dress. Or relax knowing the coordinator at The Estate at Independence will handle this!

Write vows/speeches

Get excited! Your big day is almost here!

Plan bridesmaid outing

After the Wedding

Confirm honeymoon reservations & be sure that your

Ensure Formalwear is returned

Review your vendors on RichmondWeddings.com

Preserve your dress

Write Thank You Notes

luggage meets current travel regulations.

Record gifts as your receive them and write thank you notes

Invite wedding party & out-of-town guests to rehearsal dinner

Review your reception seating chart

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vendor directory ALTERATIONS Caryn’s Bridals, Formals & Tuxedos 233 North Main Street Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 392-5111 Ad page 113 Inspired by the Dress (804) 513-9165 Ad page 113 Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center 1517-D North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad inside back cover

BACHELORETTE PARTIES Mary Kay Cosmetics Kelly Shannon (804) 402-8672 Ad page 175 Painting with a Twist 201 Towne Center West Blvd. #710 Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 447-2491 Ad page 19 Richmond Limousine 10101 West Broad Street Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 266-2800 Ad page 189 RVA Tuk Tuk 1113 West Clay Street Richmond, VA 23220 (804) 814-8690 Ad page 188 Taylor’s Classic Travels (804) 767-6387 Ad page 189 TNT Limousine 10124-G West Broad Street Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 965-0990 Ad page 188

BEAUTY Amanda M Perry (804) 510-6720 Ad page 174

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Candice Hardy Makeup Artistry CandiceHardyMUA.com Ad page 175 Mary Kay Cosmetics Kelly Shannon (804) 402-8672 Ad page 175 Salon Debonaire 8514 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 741-0429 Ad page 175

BRIDAL REGISTRIES Dillard’s Short Pump Town Center (804) 253-0182 Stony Point Fashion Park (804) 253-1860 Macy’s Chesterfield Towne Center (804) 794-5800 Short Pump Town Center (804) 364-8209

BRIDESMAID DRESSES Caryn’s Bridals, Formals & Tuxedos 233 North Main Street Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 392-5111 Ad page 113 Inspired by the Dress (804) 513-9165 Ad page 113 Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center 1517-D North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad inside back cover

North End Gelato 718 North Cleveland Street Richmond, VA 23221 (804) 729-7555 Ad page 181

Bar Solita 123 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 (804) 308-3605 Ad page 81

Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 50 Irvington Road Kilmarnock, VA (804) 577-4200 Ad page 19

Bistro 27 27 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 (804) 780-0086 Ad page 82

Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 6620 Main Street Gloucester, VA (804) 210-1511 Ad page 19

Capt Rob’s Pigalicious BBQ (804) 399-3587 Ad page 99

Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 132 Main Street Warsaw, VA (804) 250-2299 Ad page 19 Westhampton Pastry Shop, Inc. 5728 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23226 (804) 282-4413 Ad page 181

CALLIGRAPHY Papeterie 3048 Stony Point Road Richmond, VA 23235 Appointment recommended (804) 560-7955 Ad page 171 Papeterie 107 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 By appointment only (804) 560-7955 Ad page 171

CATERERS

The Candy Lady (804) 399-0516 Ad page 19

A Sharper Palate Catering & Events 5511 Lakeside Avenue Richmond, VA 23228 (804) 553-0495 Ad page 95

The Mixing Bowl Bakery 8540 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 288-2712 Ad page 180

Atlas 42 4032 Cox Road - Suite A Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 965-0420 Ad page 46

CAKES & SWEETS

Cater 2 Events 8534 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 269-0359 Ad page 97 Deep Run Roadhouse Catering 12379 Gayton Road Richmond, VA 23238 (804) 740-6301 Ad page 98 Maggiano’s Little Italy 11800 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 253-0910 Ad page 76 Mama J’s 415 North 1st Street Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 337-7678 Ad page 99 MOSAIC Catering + Events 3001 Cutshaw Avenue Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 525-2190 Ad page 99 The Old Original Bookbinder’s Seafood & Steakhouse 2306 East Cary Street Richmond, VA 23223 (804) 643-6900 Ad page 58 The Place at Innsbrook 4036-C Cox Road Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 346-2100 Ad page 66 Roma Ristorante Italiano 7240 Bell Creek Road Mechanicsville, VA 23111 (804) 559-9200 Ad page 98

The Savory Grain 2043 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 (804) 592-4000 Ad page 94

Unity of Bon Air 923 Buford Road Richmond, VA 23235 (804) 320-5584 Ad page 85

Tarrant’s West 11129 Three Chopt Road Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 205-9009 Ad page 81

Waverly Estate 11586 Courthouse Road Lunenburg, VA 23952 (434) 321-4032 Ad page 41

Taziki’s 4024-C Cox Road Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 588-3718 Ad page 98

CUSTOM ATTIRE

Taziki’s 12643 Stone Village Way Midlothian, VA 23113 (804) 588-3718 Ad page 98 Taziki’s 14221 Hull Stree Road Chesterfield, VA 23832 (804) 588-3718 Ad page 98

CEREMONY MUSIC Lyric String Quartet (804) 233-1642 Ad page 150

CHURCHES Henricus Historical Park 251 Henricus Park Road Chester, VA 23836 (804) 748-1131 Ad page 66 Monumental Church 1224 East Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 643-7407 Ad page 85 St. Joseph’s Villa 8000 Brook Road Richmond, VA 23227 (804) 553-3215 Ad page 85 Tiny Chapel Weddings Richmond, VA (804) 396-4245 Ad page 85

Inspired by the Dress (804) 513-9165 Ad page 113

DANCE INSTRUCTION Arthur Murray Richmond 3983 Deep Rock Road Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 200-5146 Ad page 149

DISC JOCKEYS Bow Tied Weddings BowTiedWeddings.com Ad page 144 Bunn DJ Company BunnDjRva.com Ad page 150 Eric Herod Entertainment EricHerod.com Ad page 150 Moonlight Entertainment (866) 969-3838 Ad page 148 Nard’s Professional DJ Service (804) 747-9159 Ad page 151 Rhythm of Love ROLwedddings.com Ad page 151 Sunshine Events by Debbie (804) 513-2345 Ad page 13

EVENT STAFFING The Coordinated Event (804) 344-0011 Ad page 16

FAVORS & GIFTS

FLOWERS

The Candy Lady Richmond, VA (804) 399-0516 Ad page 19

Blooms at The Jefferson 101 West Franklin Street Richmond, VA 23220 (804) 649-4676 Ad page 3

Crown Trophy 8111 Staples Mill Road Richmond, VA 23228 (804) 262-1000 Ad page 19 Flowers Make Scents 1272 Alverser Plaza Midlothian, VA 23113 (804) 897-6100 Ad page 143 gifted (804) 276-2540 Ad page 18 Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 50 Irvington Road Kilmarnock, VA (804) 577-4200 Ad page 19 Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 6620 Main Street Gloucester, VA (804) 210-1511 Ad page 19 Northern Neck Popcorn Bag 132 Main Street Warsaw, VA (804) 250-2299 Ad page 19 Painting with a Twist 201 Towne Center West Blvd. #710 Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 447-2491 Ad page 19 Papeterie 3048 Stony Point Road Richmond, VA 23235 Appointment recommended (804) 560-7955 Ad page 171 Papeterie 107 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 By appointment only (804) 560-7955 Ad page 171

Blue Ridge Event Production 8211 Hermitage Road Henrico, VA 23228 (804) 823-7738 / (434) 975-3540 Ad page 105 Designs by Victoria Floral 2801-A Hathaway Road Richmond, VA 23225 (804) 560-7700 Ad page 143 Flowers Make Scents 1272 Alverser Plaza Midlothian, VA 23113 (804) 897-6100 Ad page 143 Pandora’s Posies (804) 379-2514 (804) 213-2320 Ad page 142 Vogue Flowers 1114 North Boulevard Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 353-9600 Ad page 140

GOWN PRESERVATION HandCraft Cleaners 3 Locations in Richmond (804) 212-7683 Ad page 112 Puritan Cleaners 13 Locations to Serve You (804) 355-5726 Ad page 110 Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center 1517 North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad inside back cover

HAIR & MAKEUP Amanda M Perry (804) 510-6720 Ad page 174

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vendor directory Candice Hardy Makeup Artistry CandiceHardyMUA.com Ad page 175 Mary Kay Cosmetics Kelly Shannon (804) 402-8672 Ad page 175 Salon Debonaire 8514 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 741-0429 Ad page 175

HONEYMOON & TRAVEL Journeys, Inc. (804) 288-0188 Ad page 185 Modern Travel Professionals (804) 833-8050 Ad page 184 Ruth Stirling Travel (804) 746-1838 Ad page 184 The Vacation Chic (804) 370-8294 Ad page 184

HOTELS Hilton Garden Inn Richmond Innsbrook 4050 Cox Road Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 521-2900 Ad page 72 Hotel Weyanoke 202 High Street Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 658-7500 Ad page 59 The Jefferson Hotel 101 West Franklin Street Richmond, VA 23220 (866) 247-2305 Ad page 3 Linden Row Inn 100 East Franklin Street Richmond, VA 23219 sales@lindenrowinn.com Ad page 54

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Omni Hotels and Resorts 100 South 12th Street Richmond, VA 23219 OmniHotels.com/Richmond Ad page 72 Richmond Marriott Downtown 500 East Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 343-6905 Ad page 73 The Westin Richmond 6631 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 282-8444 Ad page 71

INVITATIONS & PAPER GOODS Papeterie 3048 Stony Point Road Richmond, VA 23235 Appointment recommended (804) 560-7955 Ad page 171 Papeterie 107 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 By appointment only (804) 560-7955 Ad page 171

JEWELRY Diamonds Direct - Short Pump 11131 West Broad Street Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 967-0500 Ad back cover

LIGHTING DESIGN Blue Ridge Event Production 8211 Hermitage Road Henrico, VA 23228 (804) 823-7738 / (434) 975-3540 Ad page 105 The Lighting & Sound Company 4204 Eubank Road - Suite G Richmond, VA 23231 (804) 893-5066 Ad page 109 MOSAIC Catering + Events 3001 Cutshaw Avenue Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 525-2190 Ad page 99

LUXURY RESTROOM TRAILERS Edmunds Waste Removal (804) 478-4688 Ad page 105

MOTHER’S APPAREL Caryn’s Bridals, Formals & Tuxedos 233 North Main Street Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 392-5111 Ad page 113 Inspired by the Dress (804) 513-9165 Ad page 113 Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center 1517 North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad inside back cover

OFFICIANTS Tiny Chapel Weddings (804) 396-4245 Ad page 85

PHOTO BOOTHS PIXRUS Photobooth (703) 261-9238 Ad page 108 Richmond Photobooth (804) 396-8119 Ad page 108 Social Party Booth (804) 402-7397 Ad page 108

PHOTOGRAPHY & PORTRAITS Angel Expressions Photography (804) 252-8091 Ad page 134 Butler Portraits 4600 Millridge Parkway Midlothian, VA 23112 (804) 744-4700 Ad page 130

Daniel Marks Photography (804) 245-2631 Ad page 130 Emily Bartell Photography (804) 874-0848 Ad page 131 EmmiClaire Photography (772) 341-4070 Ad page 135 Erin Schrad Photography (804) 512-5162 Ad page 135 Hayes and Fisk Photography 1003 North Parham Road Richmond, VA 23229 (804) 740-9307 Ad pages 126-127 Heather Hughes Photography 733 Thimble Shoals Boulevard Newport News, VA 23606 (757) 870-4006 Ad page 130 Heather Hughes Photography 5560 Foundation Street Williamsburg, VA 23188 (757) 870-4006 Ad page 130 J. Cameron Photography (804) 867-8553 Ad page 135 Leslie Nichole Photographer (850) 865-0669 Ad page 124 MJ Mendoza Photography MJMendozaPhotography.com Ad page 131 Paige Stevens Photography PaigeStevensPhotography.com Ad page 130 Relish Photography by Lee, LLC. (804) 569-5070 Ad page 134

RENTALS Blue Ridge Event Production 8211 Hermitage Road Henrico, VA 23228 (804) 823-7738 / (434) 975-3540 Ad page 105

Classic Party Rentals of VA Midlothian 14211 Midlothian Turnpike Midlothian, VA 23113 (804) 464-4825 Ad page 107 Classic Party Rentals of VA South 9313 Burge Avenue Richmond, VA 23237 (804) 743-7980 Ad page 107 Classic Party Rentals of VA West 9127-B West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23294 (804) 270-9544 Ad page 107 Edmunds Waste Removal (804) 478-4688 Ad page 105 MOSAIC Catering + Events 3001 Cutshaw Avenue Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 525-2190 Ad page 99 Party Perfect 3210 West Marshall Street Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 359-2400 Ad page 106 The Prop Shop Party Rentals 1512 Belleville Street Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 228-1100 Ad page 100 Rent-E-Quip 2600 Boulevard Colonial Heights, VA 23834 (804) 520-7100 Ad pages 102-103

TRANSPORTATION Richmond Limousine 10101 West Broad Street Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 266-2800 Ad page 189 RVA Tuk Tuk 1113 West Clay Street Richmond, VA 23220 (804) 814-8690 Ad page 188

TNT Limousine 10124-G West Broad Street Glen Allen, VA 23060 (804) 965-0990 Ad page 188

TUXEDOS & CUSTOM SUITS Caryn’s Bridals, Formals & Tuxedos 233 North Main Street Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 392-5111 Ad page 113 The Groom’s Corner (located inside Tiffanys Bridal) 1517 North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad page 123

VENUES Pages 86-90

VIDEOGRAPHY DreamClip Films (757) 771-0288 Ad page 139

WEDDING GOWNS Annalise Bridal Boutique 1309 East Main Street Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 649-3000 Ad page 116

Tiffanys Bridal Ridge Shopping Center 1517 North Parham Road Henrico, VA 23229 (804) 273-6303 Ad inside back cover

WEDDING PLANNERS AC Events (804) 513-4393 Ad page 13 Blue Ridge Event Production 8211 Hermitage Road Henrico, VA 23228 (804) 823-7738 / (434) 975-3540 Ad page 105 The Coordinated Event (804) 344-0011 Ad page 16 MOSAIC Catering + Events 3001 Cutshaw Avenue Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 525-2190 Ad page 99 Simply Charmed Weddings & Events SimplyCharmedEvents.com Ad page 13 SimplySomethingSweet (804) 550-5241 / (804) 363-7427 Ad page 13 Sunshine Events by Debbie (804) 513-2345 Ad page 13

Blue Sage Bridal 20 East Main Street Richmond, VA 23219 BlueSageBridal.com Ad page 113 Caryn’s Bridals, Formals & Tuxedos 233 North Main Street Farmville, VA 23901 (434) 392-5111 Ad page 113 Inspired by the Dress (804) 513-9165 Ad page 113

Taylor’s Classic Travels (804) 767-6387 Ad page 189

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the last look Paige Stevens Photography | Historic Mankin Mansion | Carynâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridals, Formals, and Tuxedos | Candice Hardy Makeup Artistry | Model: Rachel Bascombe

BRIDE DETAILS Jumpsuit: Style #016824 by Mon Cheri. Crepe Jumpsuit offering an illusion bateau neckline trimmed with beading, an illusion cape-like back, a beaded natural waist, and attached wide leg pants with pockets. Available in both Ivory and Navy. $418 by special order at Carynâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridals, Formals, and Tuxedos.

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Tiffanys Bridal

& THE GROOMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CORNER Ridge Shopping Center 1517-D North Parham Road Richmond, Virginia 23229 tiffanysbridal.com | 804.273.6303

50 years

11131 West Broad St, Glen Allen, VA 23060

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Proud Sponsor of UVA Athletics

(804) 967-0500

www.diamondsdirect.com

Proud Sponsor of the VCU Rams