Hill Country Culture - February 2020

Perfect Petals

Area florists’ secrets for flawless bridal bouquets

Raise a glass

Pick the perfect sip to toast the newlyweds’ happiness

Cake trends Innovative flavors reflect modern couples’ tastes

FEBRUARY 2020

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@ txhillcountry_culture @ Texashillcountryculture

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The Kerrville Daily Times 429 Jefferson St., Kerrville, Texas 78028 www.dailytimes.com | Phone: 830-896-7000 | Fax: 830-896-1150 Copyright: Hill Country Culture is published by The Kerrville Daily Times under Southern Newspapers Inc. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without written permission of the publisher. Editorial content does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher of this magazine. Editorial and advertising does not constitute advice but is considered informative.

EDITOR’S LETTER

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Love is in the air

’ve planned my wedding a dozen or so times. From imagining a nacho bar and chocolate fountain to saying my vows on top of a mountain at sunset, I’ve had my share of extravagant ideas. I am not married or engaged, and don’t have plans to change that anytime soon, but the idea of weddings — color palettes, f loral arrangements, engagement rings and, of course, the dress — are delightful topics for daydreams and Pinterest boards.

Those 2020 brides-to-be might find the process just as exciting but a little more stressful as the reality of nuptials looms closer every day. How will they budget?

Who will they invite? What dress will they pick?

For Hill Country brides, we hope this issue can offer a little guidance and inspiration on planning their special day. For those not marrying or already betrothed, we hope this issue will be fun to peruse to see what weddings will look like in 2020 and beyond.

First, I would like to give a huge thank-you to Mayra Eads of Mayra Eads Photography for coordinating and photographing our bridal shoot for the magazine. Her talent and enthusiasm for her work is evident in the beautiful photos she captured for this issue.

Thank you Mayra! You’re amazing!

An additional thank-you to all those who participated in our photoshoot and went above and beyond putting this beautiful mini wedding together: Baublit's Jewelers, Y.O. Ranch Headquarters, Gingersnaps Cake Co., Five Star Party Events, Beatitude Bridal, Rex Formal Wear, Gladys Cantu Hair, Allison Bueché and Lazy Creek Designs. Thank you to our bride, Audrey Nicole Hobson, and groom, Casey Lelend Hudson, for getting dressed up and being the perfect couple for our shoot.

To see our bridal photoshoot, check out page 26. To read about cake trends turn to 38 to see what sweet treats will grace your next reception. To see a great Hill Country wedding destination, view page 45 to read about Magnolia House in Fredericksburg.

Thank you again to everyone who participated in this issue and took the time to work with us.

If you’re interested in keeping up with the magazine online, check out our Instagram page @txhillcountry_culture and Facebook at Texas Hill Country Culture.

Thanks again and happy reading!

— Parastoo Nikravesh

ON THE COVER Photos by Mayra Eads Photography Models from left: Casey Lelend Hudson and Audrey Nicole Hobson Location: Y.0. Ranch Headquarters, Mountain Home Hair and make-up: Gladys Cantu Hair Fashion: Beatitude Bridal and Rex Formal Wear

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Contents 26

Features 35

HOW TO WEDDING Wedding styles depend on the couple

38

LET THEM EAT CAKE What type of dessert works best for you

40

CALL IN THE EXPERT Local wedding planner advises brides-to-be

42

GLOBAL TRADITIONS What weddings look like around the world

38

40

Departments 8

EVENT PICKS February activities

10

GET TO KNOW Meet local florists

18 MUSE

Wedding

photographer 22 UNCORKED

Toast the newlyweds

24 WELLNESS

Get healthy

for "I do" 26 BRIDAL SHOOT

2020 bridal looks 54

SWEET & SAVORY Cooking as a couple

56

OUT & ABOUT New year activities

Your Home 45

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MAGNOLIA HOUSE A Hill Country B&B

50 DIY

Bridal Bouquets

CONTRIBUTORS

1

2

Faces of 3

4

5

6

Hill Country Culture

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Contributors Kathy Sears Hall - 1

Mayra Eads - 2

Allison Bueché - 3

Jenna Carpenter - 4

Kathy Sears Hall is a Kerrville native and graduate of Tivy High School. She is a Cooper Institute Personal Trainer and is licensed to teach Pilates and Zumba. She holds an accounting degree from the University of Texas and spent 27 years in the energy industry. She now enjoys being back home and working with her father, husband and staff at The Center for Fitness, a business her mother started over 40 years ago.

Allison Bueché is a Hill Country native who is a marketer by day and loves playing with flowers, crafting, puppies, long runs and anything involving wine at night. Read her helpful tips on DIY decorations.

Sandra Lane - 5

Sandra Lane is a fourth-generation Texan who has written for newspapers, trade journals and corporate communications. She has written extensively about real estate and mortgage banking as well as high-tech industries. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. A native of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, she moved to Kerrville in 2013.

Nancy Foster - 7

Mayra Eads is a photographer passionately serving couples and families of Kerrville, Fredericksburg, Boerne, San Antonio and beyond. With an uplifting, joyful energy and bright, romantic style, she preserves those moments of love on camera. When she’s not hanging out with clients or working on her latest gallery, you can catch her serving children in the foster care system, choreographing a quinceañera (because she absolutely loves to dance), or watching the latest episode of “This Is Us.”

Jenna Carpenter is the communications coordinator for Presbyterian Mo-Ranch Assembly. Before going into public relations, she worked at several newspapers, including The Kerrville Daily Times, The Castroville News Bulletin and The Medina Valley Times, the Garden Island Newspaper, on the island of Kauai, in Hawaii, and The St. Augustine Record, in St. Augustine, Florida. She loves to travel and is planning a trip to Alaska in 2020.

Stacy Whittemore - 6

Stacy Whittemore is a health/cooking coach and certified master preserver in the Texas Hill Country. Her cooking blog, wayfaringspoon.com, is dedicated to smaller-sized recipes along with home canning inspiration. Her passion is teaching and sharing the art of home-cooked meals.

Nancy Foster has contributed to Texas Hill Country Culture since its beginning. She believes success is measured when readers tell her they’ve found another place to visit and enjoy. Nancy and her husband, Raymond, have lived in Kerrville for nine years. She heads Foster Tourism Marketing, a company that services clients in four states. She also is a writer for a national inflight magazine.

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GO AND DO

Fave 5 Events Enjoy February with these top Hill Country Events

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Saturday 1 - Sunday 2

Sunday 16

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

River Star Arts and Event Park, 4000 Riverside Drive. Open rain, shine or cold. Travel back in time to the middle ages; filled with adventure, music, romance and fun for the whole family. Play games of skill. Eat a turkey leg. Shop in the marketplace featuring over 40 artisans and enjoy headlining entertainers and musical acts. 214-632- 5766.

6:30 - 9 p.m. Saturday, Kerrville Hills Winery, 3600 Fredericksburg Road.

A night of suspense and laughter while enjoying a catered meal paired with delicious wine. Help solve the mystery murder and the help of the chief investigator, with the added insight of those seated at your table. A unique and fun experience. 830-8954233. www.kerrvillehillswinery.com

Kerrville Renaissance Festival

Valentine's Day Mystery Dinner

www.kerrvillerenfest.com

Thursday 27 Saturday 15

Chocolate Fantasy

2 - 4 p.m. Saturday. Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St. A KACC fundraiser and celebration of art. Music, silent auction, raffle, lots of fun and lots of chocolate.

830-895-2911. www.kacckerrville.com

Symphony of the Hills "Chopin and friends: Romantic Genius"

7:30 p.m. Thursday, Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St. A professional symphony orchestra performs a concert that blends classical and contemporary. A wine and cheese reception precedes the concert. 830-792-7469. www. symphonyofthehills.org

Saturday 15

Daddy/Daughter Dance 5 - 8 p.m. Saturday, Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Highway 27. Twelfth Annual Daddy and Daughter dance is a magical evening filled with dinner and dancing guaranteed to be a wonderful memory maker. 830-2577300. www.kerrvilletx.gov

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If you visit these events, snap a picture and use the hashtag #CultureAdventures or tag us at @txhillcountry_culture on Instagram so we can share your Texas Hill Country adventures.

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BARBARA

WALKER

Barbara Walker, owner of Barb’s Flower Barn, 201 Water St. Kerrville. 830-895-1965.

Interview and photos by Parastoo Nikravesh.

1) What are some things you’ve noticed trending in the floral world?

Succulents, everyone is going toward succulents. They want it mixed in with their flowers.

If you want something not traditional, then succulents are very cool. For a while, everybody wanted the rustic weddings with baby’s breath but, now everyone is going toward succulents.

2) What are some things couples should know before reaching out to a florist?

Have their colors picked out and have a general idea of what they like. If you want long and low, the general style, if you need centerpieces and if you have corsages, how many bridesmaids you have. I have magazines that help, and Pinterest is a great go-to for visuals. Generally, if they find a picture of something they like, flower-wise or color wise, we can make something similar. And sometimes people pick out some flowers that are expensive and they don’t have that in the budget, but there is something similar we can usually substitute it with.

3) What goes into the cost of flowers?

Your containers for centerpieces and then if you want buckets or

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wood. It depends on what you want, and the type of flowers.

There are inexpensive flowers and then there are really highend flowers that cost more.

And ribbon: Everyone thinks you can just go get ribbon, but ribbon is fairly expensive. And the same for greenery. People think it might be cheaper to use more greenery, but those can also go up in cost.

4) What do you like the best about working in florals?

My customers. I try to treat everyone’s occasion as if it were my own. If it’s for their mom, I would make it like if it were for my mom. Funerals, although they are sad, I want my flowers to represent that person and what made them happy.

5) How does it feel to do the flowers for someone’s wedding?

I am always nervous because two things I don’t want to screw up are weddings and funerals.

But it’s important to have fun with it, and that day will be perfect no matter what. I give it 110%, and I stay up all night long if I have to to make sure they’re fresh and that they’re beautiful when they get to your wedding.

GET TO KNOW

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GET TO KNOW

KAREN KORDZIK

Karen Kordzik, owner of The Rose Shop, 402 Quinlan St., Kerrville. 830-257-8311.

Interview and photos by Parastoo Nikravesh.

1) What are some new trends in florals right now?

A lot of people like to do things with unusual types of flowers and different types of greenery, so incorporating some unusual things is always a nice option to go with because it’s fun and different and people like that.

2) What are some things couples should know before visiting you to choose wedding florals?

They pretty much need to know what they’re looking at as far as color palette, and I suggest they look ahead at pictures they like — that always helps me to get a feel for what they’re interested in. That way, I don’t have to read your mind, and I have more insight to what they’re looking for and wanting. Also, numbers — like how many bridesmaids and do they want flowers just for the ceremony or also the reception.

3) What’s the process of doing florals for a wedding?

Ahead of time you pretty much do all your personals — bridal bouquets, boutonnière and corsages, you do that ahead of time. If you have arrangements, you try to do much of that ahead of time. If it doesn’t require any additional adding on, you do that ahead of time before you go to the venue. But there are some things you have to do onsite, like you might have to put on swags or cages on arches, so you have to do that out there.

Now, something popular is laying greenery on the table. So if you have that trimmed ahead of time, then you’re not trying to do it the day of.

4) What is your favorite part of working in the floral industry?

I love flowers in general, and I think being able to see that different variety and seeing how it brings happiness to people in general. Flowers are a happy thing and a happy item that brings joy. It’s good to see that smile and have people call back in to say that the flowers were gorgeous.

5) Is there anything else you’d like people to know about the work you do?

Well the Rose Shop has been in business since 1954. Now, I haven’t owned it that long. I have been doing florals for 40 years myself, and we bought the shop in 2005 from the owners that I worked for prior to buying it. I enjoy what I do and no, I don’t know it all. There are always learning experiences out there. Every time you turn around there’s something else that is new and interesting.

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GET TO KNOW

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CHRISTINE

MARTIN

Christine Martin, floral artist and owner of Showers of Flowers, 324 Highway 39, Ingram. 830-367-7171. Interview and photos by Parastoo Nikravesh.

1) What are some trends for florals for weddings?

The trends right now are the bigger, more open bloom types of arrangements with the more whimsical design and lots of greenery, especially eucalyptus, seeded eucalyptus and silver dollar eucalyptus, and lots of roses. Also white flowers.

2) Where do you first hear about trends — on your own or from the brides?

Brides come to me. And these days, they generally come with pictures. They’ll send me, my out of town brides I work with, they’ll email me pictures of what they’re looking for, and then I’ll give them my feedback if the flowers are in their budget or in season. If not, I can substitute it to get them close to what they’re looking for.

3) What do you want brides and grooms to know before they come to you?

It’s usually to call me first and set up an appointment. When people just come in, I don’t mind stopping to talk to them as long as I don’t have a lot going on. But most of the time, I’m busy to

where I can’t stop to talk to them right then. The other thing is to have a budget in mind. I’m always really flexible as far as the budget goes and give them options to fit it.

4) What makes you stand out?

Quality for one thing … I stock different things. My specialty is Hill Country wildflower that look like I just went into a field and picked flowers and put them in a vase. A whimsical “undesign” more or less.

5) Are flowers for weddings more special?

Well, I sit down with my brides from the start. I do a consultation and they tell me what they’re looking for and what will make their dreams come true. So, taking it from that point all the way though to when I order all the flowers and do all of the design and deliver it to make sure the bride is happy. I like to be a part of every part of the process. Bigger places, they’ll have a designer and owner sit with the bride, and they’ll take the order and pass it on to another designer. So, communication is really important, and I want to be a part of every step.

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TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

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MEGAN SMART PHOTOGRAPHY

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MUSE

Wedding Photographer TO CAPTURE LOVE, JOY AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN Story by Parastoo Nikravesh

Photo by Parastoo Nikravesh

L

ove is what artists have tried to capture throughout history. Painters, poets and musicians have all tried their hand at expressing the indescribable magic that is love.

For Mayra Eads, a romantic and Hill Country local, capturing love is her passion as a wedding photographer. She’s set out to photograph love, joy and everything in between.

“Photography is something I’ve always loved, Eads said. “I always saw my dad with a camera back when it was more film. Then, in late 2017, I decided I wanted to take beautiful pictures and that’s how it all started. I bought a camera. I didn’t know anything about DSLR cameras, but I bought a random camera and a lens, and I started from there.”

As Mayra grew her photography business, she knew she wanted to pursue weddings.

“My wedding was a small elopement and I don’t really have any pictures from it, so I feel like I missed out on a lot of moments,” Eads said. “That’s part of why I became a wedding photographer, because: I wanted to deliver beautiful images and moments for the bride and groom.”

Some photographers choose to specialize in subjects besides weddings, and some might outright refuse to book weddings.

“They can be stressful,” Eads said. “I think it’s mostly the fear

❝

of not capturing the right moment. On weddings, there are no reruns on the day of. So definitely, there are a lot of factors on wedding photography.

“The most challenging moments that I encounter are when there isn’t coordination throughout the day. On my end, I like to talk to my brides about timelines just so that I know what’s going to happen next.

Even if they run behind schedule, I know the sequence of events. If I don’t know, I can’t be there.”

But of course, there is a reason that Eads loves her work. There are many moments during the weddings that she professes make her emotional: the father and daughter dance, toasts, personalized vows and more.

“I think you have to have some passion for love,” Eads said. “Not necessarily lovey, dovey romantic, but I think that to be able to capture the love between two people, you have to have that somewhat of a romantic side. That first moment the groom looks at the bride and starts crying — it is so breathtaking. There are a lot of moments in weddings that I cry.”

Eads’ says that some trends in wedding photography today include natural light with bright and airy images or dark/ moody images. Eads says her style is more light, upbeat and joyful. She loves to capture the joy with bright colors and

... Not necessarily lovey, dovey romantic, but I think that to be able to capture the love between two people, you have to have that somewhat of a romantic side.

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lighting.

“Joyfulness is a huge factor for me,” Eads said. “I want my images to display that.

Weddings, I think, should be joyful and full of happiness. It’s the one day that you truly get to pour so much love to that person and everyone around you, so it’s definitely important.”

Eads’ finds trust is key to being a soughtafter wedding photographer.

“I have transparency, and I think that plays a huge factor in building trust,” Eads said. “I think brides are looking to hire a wedding photographer need to trust their photographer. I tell them I’ll be their third wheel and I’ll be with you the whole day.

That connection, if they have it with the photographer, definitely plays a huge factor in whether they’re going to book or not.

“All the couples that I have this year, I have a connection with them. They have my cell phone, and I’m on call 24/7 for them I work with them the whole year — it’s not just the day of the wedding.”

Eads says the last couple of years have been a learning experience. She says she has gained experience and knowledge from working with clients and putting together styled photoshoots.

“A lot of people have inspired me and I think one of the most important, and why my business has grown so much in the past year, is Megan Smart Photography in Kerrville,” Eads said. “I did a lot of research and learning on my own, but she definitely became my mentor.

She definitely has helped me develop in ways that I think it takes years for other photographers, that don’t have mentors, to do. I give her a lot of credit. I think she’s super awesome.”

All of Eads’ wedding collections offer a complimentary engagement session so they can get a sense of her style and personality.

Eads’ goals for her photography include being featured in “Martha Weddings” or “The Knot,” magazine.

“Also I would love to do destination weddings,” Eads said. “I love to travel so any chance I get I’m in. Traveling for me is exploring new places and taking on new challenges and it is definitely something I dream and hope to accomplish.

Additionally, Eads’ was the photographer of Culture’s wedding shoot and examples of her work can be seen in this issue. To find out more about Eads and her business visit her Instagram @mephotography_tx or her website mayraeads.com or reach her at 830-370-8716.

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PICK THE PERFECT SIP

A

Story by Stacy Whittemore

toast to the bride and groom is a time-honored tradition. Finding the perfect wine for the toast is easy here in the heart of Texas wine country with so many options for your big day. Having the right beverages is key to a relaxed wedding and making guests a part of the celebration. While wine is traditional, trends are showing that offerings for other drinks are just as important. We are seeing more options to serve alongside wine for those who are designated drivers, pregnant women, children and those who just choose not to drink but still want to be a part of the celebration. Drinks commonly called “mocktails,” are a perfect pairing to include all your guests. Das Peach Haus in Fredericksburg offers a peach cider that is non-alcoholic and refreshing. Another creative option is choosing wine that comes from your area or choosing one from your heritage, making the day a tribute to the past, present, and future.

Tips for choosing wines and beverages Look for at least one red wine and one white to serve at your celebration. Some of the most popular wines, such as oaky, buttery Chardonnay and fruity, full-bodied Merlot, aren’t always the best companions for wedding fare: They also tend to have higher alcohol content. You want your guests to have a great time, but not overindulge. Two wines that go very well with many different types of foods and that can be served year-round are Sauvignon Blanc (also known as Fume Blanc) for a white and, among reds, Pinot Noir. Both of these are lighter in body and less fruity than Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Another growing trend is adding fruit to wine and sparkling water.

Time of year and your wine.

If you have a spring or summer wedding, you may want to forgo serving a heavy wine. Go with a crisp white wine instead of a full-bodied red. For fall or winter weddings, lean toward a red wine while keeping in mind what food will be served. If it is a full-plated meal, red is best, but if the meal is lighter or just hors d’oeuvres, then a white will work well as well as a rose. A safe and delicious offering can be a Moscato that is slightly sweet to go with your cake cutting ceremony.

Another option to decrease the alcohol content is

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offering mixed drinks that give that unique Texas Hill Country flare.

No matter your choice of wine, you can’t go wrong with the many wineries in the Hill Country. The recipes below are from Fischer & Wieser in Fredericksburg, which has several wines you can taste to find the right one for your wedding.

Peach Raspberry Royale • 1/4 oz Chambord • 1 oz Fischer & Wieser Peach Moscato • Top off with sparkling white wine Pour the Chambord and Fischer & Wieser Peach Moscato into a champagne flute and slowly top off with sparkling white wine.

Garnish with a raspberry and serve.

German “Bowle” Champagne Punch • 1 bag of frozen peach slices • 1 clamshell fresh raspberries • ½ jar of Fischer & Wieser Old Fashioned Peach Preserves • ½ bottle of vodka (enough to cover the fruit) • 1 bottle dry Riesling • 1 bottle sparkling wine or prosecco Place fruit in a bowl and add half a jar of Fischer & Wieser’s Old Fashioned Peach preserves, pour in vodka just to cover fruit, mix, and refrigerate overnight. Next day pour in the chilled bottle of dry Riesling, stir and return to refrigerator. Right before the party, pour in the sparkling wine, stir and serve.

Garrison Brothers Roasted Raspberry Mint Smash • 2 oz. Garrison Brothers Bourbon • ½ oz. Fischer & Wieser’s The Original Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Sauce® • 6-8 Mint leaves • 6-8 Raspberries Muddle Fischer & Wieser’s The Original Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Sauce®, mint and raspberries. Add bourbon, shake vigorously with ice. Strain and serve in a lowball glass over a large ice cube.

WELLNESS

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How to get in your dream dress while keeping healthy and happy

By Kathy Sears Hall

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rides want to look their very best on wedding day, not only because they will be the center of attention but because the event will be captured on film forever. For many, that means losing weight, or as some say, shredding for the wedding – or the prom, spring break, high school reunion, vacation cruise and many other special occasions. If that’s the case for you, here are some dos and don’ts to help you along the way.

Do spend some time deciding why you want to lose weight.

If you want to look like a certain celebrity that does not share your body type, then you have a huge challenge ahead and your chances of success are low.

If you want to feel stronger and more confident on your special day and your weight goal is reasonable, then you’re already on the right path.

Don’t decide to lose weight at the last minute.

Do you want to lose 40 pounds in two months? Not only is that unachievable, but you will likely be miserable and irritated along the journey. This is an exciting part of your life – maybe even the highlight so far. Use this time to make smart choices and enjoy the planning, parties and decision making along the way.

Don’t go on a fad or crash diet.

Pick up any fashion magazine or search online and you will find headlines promising a quick weight loss with pills, cleanses, feeding tubes (yes, feeding tubes) and detoxes.

While you might lose a few pounds on these plans, it is likely through dehydration, loss of muscle mass, or the laxative-response to what you are putting in your body. Side effects can include headaches, kidney stones and concentration problems.

Crash diets can also negatively

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affect your health and actually backfire when you restrict your calorie intake long term. Your body goes into starvation mode, where your metabolism slows down in order to maintain basic functions while holding on to the few calories coming in. To top it off, hair and skin health can suffer. None of these issues are going to help you look and feel your best on your special day, so you’d be smart to choose a different route.

Do fuel your body with nutritious foods.

Focus on fruits and vegetables, lean protein, good fats and high fiber foods. Drink plenty of water and eat sweets as an occasional treat. All these choices are lower in calories than fast foods, packaged goods and restaurant portions.

Consider joining Weight Watchers, which encourages a wide variety of food choices along with an accountability system to keep you on track. You might want to invest in a nutritionist. You are more than likely using professionals to help you with the event, so why not hire an expert for your own health and wellbeing?

Do incorporate aerobics, strength training and stretching into your routine.

Cardiovascular exercise, aerobics, burns fat. Think walking, biking, swimming, dancing or anything that gets you out of breath.

Strength training can be done with

machines, dumbbells, tubing, bands or simple things around the house like canned goods.

Stretching lengthens your muscles and protects them from injury. You can do it on your own, but you might enjoy a yoga or Pilates class with friends.

Think about using a personal trainer to design your workout plan.

He or she can then help hold you accountable and ensure you’re using proper form.

Do combine the right amount of food and exercise into your weight loss plan.

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, you can realistically lose 1 - 2 lbs a week on a good exercise and nutrition plan. Set a goal to eat 500 fewer calories a day while burning an additional 500 through exercise.

Don’t give up if you get off track. Aim to stick to your plan most of the time.

Losing weight at this rate is not only more achievable, but it can be kinder to your pocketbook. Wedding gown alterations take both time and money, so let your seamstress in on the plan.

Don’t revert to your old lifestyle after the big day.

Use the event as a reason to start a lifelong program one step at a time.

Continue the changes you’ve made until they become your new healthy habits. You could even wear the dress again when you renew your vows years down the road.

Photo by Mayra Eads

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IN THE

Casey Hudson and Audrey Hobson pose atop the highest point at Y.O. Ranch Headquarters as the sun sets over the expanse of Hill Country behind them. The historic location was owned by the Schreiner family since the Civil War era. It features thousands of acres of unique views and abundant wildlife as the ideal backdrop for a rustic or elegant wedding.

Styled photography by Mayra Eads

Calligraphy, like this example penned by Lazy Creek Designs, will give invitations a touch of elegance.

Modern brides are increasingly choosing to forgo the typical diamond in their engagement and wedding rings.

This wedding set by Baublit’s Jewelers shines with a 14 karat white gold band, 1.70 carat “rubelite” taurmaline center stone and 1.29 carat diamond baguettes.

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Bride Audrey Hobson’s bouquet was arranged by Allison Bueche. Bright, eye-catching colors like these look even more beautiful against the white or ivory of a bridal gown. To learn more about assembling your own bouquet or choosing other wedding florals, turn to Page 50.

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Part of the charm of planning a Hill Country wedding is the unique setting. Y.O. Ranch Headquarters is also home to exotic animals like the giraffes pictured at right and below.

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Five Star Party Events provides styling for a variety of occasions.

This four-tier wedding cake was created by Gingersnaps Cake Co. with gold piping and floral accents to match the bride’s bouquet.

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Beatitude Bridal provided bride Audrey Hobson’s wedding gown, which features a tulle skirt with a lace bodice and an illusion neckline. Her hair and makup were styled by Gladys Cantu Hair.

Groom Casey Hudson poses among historical artifacts in the gun room at Y.O. Ranch Headquarters. His tuxedo was provided by Rex Formal Wear.

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Learn about Y.O. Ranch Headquarters, at 1736 Y.O. Ranch Road in Mountain Home, by visiting their Facebook page or by calling 830-640-3222.

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Have the wedding of your dreams at Y.O. Ranch Headquarters

Premier Wedding Venue in the beautiful Texas Hill Country Several different venue options including an 800+ seat outdoor amphitheater.

Lodging • Catering • First rate staff • Onsite planner We’ll be there with you every step of the way.

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Big, small OR not at all Wedding’s scope depends on couple’s comfort level

By Sandra Lane Pew Research studies have revealed that love still tops the list of Americans’ reasons to marry. About 9 in 10 Americans (88%) cited love as a very important reason to get married, ahead of making a lifelong commitment (81%) and companionship (76%), according to a Pew Research Center survey. Fewer said having their relationship recognized in a religious ceremony (30%), financial stability (28%) or legal rights and benefits (23%) were very important reasons to marry.

Mary Stone, church administrator at Kerrville’s First Presbyterian Church, said that there are usually only about two or three weddings a year held at the church, although the pastors may be

asked to perform a Christian wedding at a different wedding venue.

She added that there is still a focus on traditions.

“In following a family tradition, an upcoming wedding will be performed in the Schreiner Chapel at the church,” she said. “The bride’s mother and grandmother were married in that chapel, and she wants to follow this family tradition.”

Justice of the Peace Bill Ragsdale, Precinct 4 in Ingram, has performed his share of weddings.

He said he has married couples in a variety of venues, including at an office, in a church and at an event center. Some of the weddings are extremely casual and some are very formal.

Other marriages he has performed have been in non-traditional settings.

“I’ve married two couples at Whataburger in Ingram,” he said. “One was a proxy marriage, where someone stood in for the groom because he was in prison, but we don’t do those anymore.”

“I married one couple while they were standing in Johnson Creek,” he said, “as well as a couple in a rodeo arena. However, I refuse to jump out of airplanes while performing a wedding.”

Sarah Lohmeyer, administrator at Kerrville’s First Methodist Church said, “We hardly have any weddings at the church, maybe one a year. I think destination weddings are much more the thing these days.”

Here are some wedding styles that are rising in popularity.

WEEKDAY WEDDINGS The classic Saturday afternoon wedding is a staple in the United States, but some soon-to-be-married are mixing up the calendar. According to an article in The Atlantic, 1 in 5 weddings now takes place during the work week.

Although there are concerns that those invited to a weekday wedding might find it inconvenient, more couples are ditching the standard to better fit their personalities and timetables.

Weekday weddings are of ten cheaper, open up more availability for event venues and can limit the number of guests to only those who are dedicated to attending.

“I

married one couple while they were standing in Johnson Creek, as well as a couple in a rodeo arena. However, I refuse to jump out of airplanes while performing a wedding.”

– JP Bill Ragsdale, Ingram Precinct 4

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Five Star Party Events styled this wedding arrangement at Y.O. Ranch Headquarters. More couples are considering nontraditional locations to get married as they plan their weddings, hoping to save on costs that can, on average, stretch into the tens of thousands of dollars. Photos by Mayra Eads

ELOPEMENT Although elopements have been grouped in with Las Vegas, courthouses and stressful circumstances that require expedited marriage ceremonies, couples of today are turning to the intimate and easy ceremonies and making it something just as special as a traditional wedding.

The Knot’s 2016 study shows the average wedding costs about $35,500, while the average worker under 35 makes less than $40,000 a year. With these sorts of costs, it makes sense to want to cut to the chase and go easy on the wallet.

Additionally, according to an article in Glamour, millennials are getting married later in life which means there are more people they’ve befriended over the years who need to make the guest list, but an elopement can pare down the size. Elopements can leave a couple to devote more time with their

smaller group of family and friends and spend more money on food or photography.

DESTINATION WEDDINGS Similar to elopement, destination weddings are seeing a rise in popularity to make the couples special day more special and also to limit the size of guests.

According to Islands.com, the average number of guests at a traditional wedding is 140, and the average number of guests at a destination wedding is approximately 48.

Destination weddings also located the event in a neutral locale if one partner has family mostly in one region but the other partner has family somewhere else.

Finally, destination weddings can help the couple save. Smaller groups and built-in decoration with beautiful scenery make the event a much smoother and more intimate affair.

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Sweet Options

A growing menu of confectionery delights lets bride, groom cater dessert to specific tastes

By Stacy Whittemore

T

he wedding cake.

That confectionery will be your wedding's sugary centerpiece.

Cake on left, provided by Ginger Snaps Cake Co. Photo by Mayra Eads

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That same cake has given many a bride-to-be some sleepless nights.

What is the just-right topper? Which flavor? Will there be enough? Should I do a dessert bar and a small cake?

Choosing what will make everyone happy can seem daunting, but here are some tips to guide you through the millions of Pinterest posts of frostings, options and designs.

Why do we have a cake in the first place?

In ancient Rome, when a wedding concluded, the groom broke a loaf of barley bread over the bride’s head, symbolizing fertility. Thankfully, that tradition didn’t stand the test of time. The bread changed to teacakes and eventually became the tradition we now know. Even from the royal frosting made famous in the 16th century, the wedding cake of your grandmother is far different than the trends of today.

2020 has wedding cakes as diverse as ever, with dazzling colors and multiple ways to serve your guests a sweet bite on your big day. Weddings are becoming playful, fun and less structured; your choice of dessert can be the same.

Two trends are big contenders for the new year. The first is a smaller wedding cake to cut accompanied by side cakes for guests as a dessert bar. This option provides less cutting and serving so your guests can enjoy the party and dancing.

The benefit to this is that if there is a lot of leftovers, you can have your caterer box up portions to give guests to take home.

Another new trend gaining popularity is pies in assorted flavors and fruits.

Savor each flavor

Going with individual cakes gives guests the option to choose. A new flavor emerging is lime, which complements the traditionally popular lemon flavor. You may love the idea of rosemary flavoring, but think of a happy medium that everyone can enjoy. Also, some guests may have dietary or allergy restrictions. Talk with your caterer to plan a side dessert for these guests.

Remember the moment

Do I have to keep the top cake layer for my first anniversary? It is up to you, but keep in mind wrapping it correctly is essential to keeping it fresh. Follow these tips from Wilton and you can’t go wrong.

First, remove any ornaments or large breakable decorations. You may choose to leave certain smaller icing decorations on the cake to retain the charm of your original design.

If the cake is resting on an unwrapped cake board, replace the board with one wrapped in foil. This will prevent a cardboard taste from seeping into the cake.

If the cake is resting on a plastic separator plate, it's fine to leave that on when freezing.

Next, place the cake in the freezer for about 20 minutes. This will firm up the icing and prevent it from adhering to the wrap.

Now you're ready to wrap the cake.

Completely cover the cake with plastic wrap, making sure to wrap airtight.

Follow by wrapping with at least 2 layers of heav y duty aluminum foil.

The more protection you give the cake, the less chance of freezer taste or freezer burn.

If desired, you can also place the cake in a storage container. One day before your first anniversary, begin defrosting the cake in your refrigerator. After about two hours, remove the cake from its wrapping and continue to defrost. Just before serving, let the cake rest at room temperature.

Stick with your sweetie

Remember, it’s your wedding and it’s your party, have fun and do what feels right for both of you.

Don't forget the groom

Groom's cakes traditionally were the wedding favor, not another dessert. The cake was sliced and given to guests as a gift to take home. A groom's cake is the opportunity to add something special to a celebration that can often feel it’s all about the bride. The groom's cake can be cut right after the wedding cake, and if there is enough, guests can have a slice of each. Having each cake a different flavor gives guests a choice.

Stay on top of decor

The days of the plastic bride and groom cake topper are just about gone, with fresh flowers, edible flowers and simple ferns taking their place. Decide what works with the overall theme and what will be the most memorable.

Stave off a sugar rush

When to cut and serve? Traditionally the cake was cut at the final moments of the wedding and was the signal for guests to leave. Today the cake is usually cut just after the meal is served, signaling the last official part of the party. Cutting the cake before the dancing ensures that the photos are perfect so you can enjoy the dancing without worrying if your hair or dress is still fresh or the groom still has on his bow tie. It also helps signal older relatives it’s OK to slip out without missing out.

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Call in the

EXPERT A professional wedding planner shares her best advice on what you can pull off yourself and what’s best left to the pros

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By Nancy Foster

ithin minutes of meeting Kerrville entrepreneur Tricia Hamil, it was quite evident that this energetic lady is a multitasker with a flair for style and a natural talent for originality. As president and creative director of Viridian Design Studio on Memorial Boulevard and Especially Yours Flowers at 228 Junction Highway, Tricia has an ever-present smile, a reassuring can-do attitude and a passion for what she does.

Since February has traditional ties to romance, the timing was right to sit down with Tricia to learn about her company and what couples need to know about planning their nuptials.

How did you get started in wedding planning?

I initially established a law practice when I moved to Kerrville in 1993.

I soon became active in the community and helped plan several charity events and balls. I enjoyed event planning so much that I switched career paths and opened my own business in 2010.

Are you a full-service planner?

Yes. Our team can handle weddings from start to finish. Over 100 weddings are behind us and 2020 is booking well.

How many are on your staff?

We currently employ a team of nine.

We also work with numerous preferred vendors for specialty services, including invitations, photography, entertainment, printing, etc.

Do you have a minimum event size?

We specialize in large, multi-faceted, logistically complex events, although we 40

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are more than happy to handle smaller weddings. We also organize other romantic-type events, including vow renewal ceremonies, engagements and anniversaries.

Many couples tend to overspend on novelty items, favors, etc. and with our guidance, we can recommend affordable ways to still have everything for their dream wedding.

Are your clients all local?

What is the toughest challenge a couple faces while planning?

We see 70% of wedding parties coming from a radius between San Antonio and Austin. A good number also come from Houston. Some choose this area because they have vacation properties here, and we even have sentimental brides whose site selection comes from memories attending area summer girl’s camps.

How far in advance do couples contact you?

The average is 10 months out, although we have worked our magic within six weeks.

Can a wedding planner save couples money?

Through their knowledge and expertise, professional wedding planners help couples stay within their budget.

patterns, most couples tie the knot from mid-March to early June or from September – November.

In addition to places of worship, are other venues popular?

Deciding how many people to invite to stay within budget and to agree on the guest list. When facing guest lists, a sense of obligation often arises.

The Hill Country is filled with truly unique venues. We are happy to discuss this with our couples to ensure they find the perfect location for their ceremony and reception, whether it be indoor, outdoor or a combination.

Tell us about wedding trends for 2020.

What is one thing people may not realize about a wedding planner?

We’re seeing a lot of return to color. Previously the tones had been for organic, monochromatic themes.

Now requests are coming in for more jewel tones and spring colors. We’re also receiving more calls for farm-totable menus, plated meals, creative stations and more formality in general.

Folks don’t truly realize what full-service wedding planners do.

We do it all, from handling the guest list, taking RSVPs, design planning, production, theme and more. Our ultimate goal is to take all the stress away so our couples can enjoy their special day.

What is the most popular time for weddings in the Hill Country?

Outdoor weddings are the trend here, and because of our weather

Reach Tricia and her team at Especially Yours Flowers at 228 Junction Highway, Kerrville, 830-257-5262, viridiandesignstudio.com or especiallyyourskerrville.com.

Weddings

around the world

A time to celebrate love and family, weddings can be a way to bring people together all over the world.

While many of us are familiar with Western traditions for weddings (white dresses, cake toppers and saying “I do”), traditions can sometimes look a little different in other cultures. Here are a few traditions from across the globe:

A Chinese couple in Western wedding attire look over their photos together.

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The Associated Press

An Indian bride and groom perform rituals at a wedding in Surat, India. Weddings in India are expensive affairs with the bride’s family traditionally expected to pay the groom a large dowry of cash and gifts. The Associated Press

By Ariel Lutnesky CHINA: GOOD LUCK Brides often wear a red wedding dress or Qi Pao, a type of body-hugging dress, in Chinese weddings.

According to an article

by Guimei He of Qingdao University of Science and Technology, it is also not uncommon to put the Chinese word that means “happiness” in red on the walls during weddings.

His article states the color red is favored at weddings because it symbolizes good luck in Chinese culture. This is in contrast to how red often means death, violence a nd da nger in We ster n

cultures; take the terms “red f lag” or “red battle” as examples.

MEXICO: NEVER-ENDING LOVE According to “Marriage Customs Around the World: An Encyclopedia of Dating C u s tom s a nd We dd i ng Traditions,” a tradition in Mexico includes putting the Lazo — a long string of rosary beads — around the necks of the couple getting married in order to symbolize their unity and unending love.

Grooms in Mexican culture might also give the bride 13 coins that represent Jesus and his disciples in order to symbolize the promise of financial security.

GREECE: SPITTING BLESSINGS While in the streets of Texas, most would not care to be spit on, Greek culture is another stor y. Greek weddings may include guests spitting on the bride to “project their blessings and good fortune,” reads a book by Sean Nguyen and David T. Wong.

JUDAISM: CHERISH AND CARE FOR Toward the end of a Jewish wedding ceremony, it is customary for the couple to break a glass, according to ReformJudaism.org.

This tradition has several interpretations, one of which is that the glass represents the delicacy of marriage,

that it should be cherished and cared for, the website said. Another interpretation is that it is a reminder of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in the first century.

“Even at the height of personal joy, we must not forget the tragedies the Jewish and world communities have endured,” the website said.

ISLAM: A PUBLIC FEAST Muslim marriages ought to be declared publicly and never held in secret, said an article in the BBC by Ruqaiyyah Waris Maqsood. Often, a marriage will be announced with a large feast, or rather, walimah.

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Courtesy Photo

Magnolia House

B&B offers a Hill Country honeymoon experience

By Jenna Carpenter

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het her it ’s deliver ing champagne and chocolate to your room, helping plan your visit to the Texas Hill Country or baking cookies every afternoon, Phil and Tamora Wood’s attention to detail will ensure your honeymoon is one to remember.

“The stereotype of what a honeymoon is has changed,” Phil Wood said. “There’s always the picture of the couple driving off to some beautiful island, but that’s not always how it is. Everyone is different, and that stereotype doesn’t apply to everyone.”

For ex a mple, some of t he honeymooners are young couples who can’t take weeks off from work. Others are celebrating a second wedding and

don’t want to be away from the kids for too long.

But whatever the reason, Phill and Tamora Wood, who own Magnolia House, want to make sure all of their guests have the experience of a lifetime.

Magnolia House is in the heart of downtown Fredericksburg. Nestled in a quiet neighborhood on East Hackberry Street, it has been a bed and breakfast for nearly three decades.

So, when the husband and wife duo, originally from England, purchased the home about a year ago, they knew they wanted to keep it running as a bed and breakfast.

“The realtor said we could convert it back to a private home, but a lightbulb went off,” Tamora Wood said. “Phil could

retire and do this.”

The Magnolia House has five rooms all stocked with robes, luggage racks, ironing boards, fresh flowers, soap and shampoo. There is also a rubber duck placed in every bathroom.

Two of the accommodations — The Magnolia and Bluebonnet —are suites that have private entrances, which are popular amongst honeymooners. But if a couple is looking for a more affordable option, a room at the top of the stairs, named Peach Blossom, is just as cozy, Phil Wood said.

“It’s perfect for young couples who are experiencing a bed and breakfast for the first time,” he said.

As soon as you step into Magnolia House, you are greeted with a mix of

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YOUR HOME

Texas and British hospitality. A sun room provides a space for guests to mingle with each other over a cup of coffee or tea.

A two-course breakfast is served at 9 a.m. every morning in the dining room. Phil and Tamora Wood start their day every morning at 6:20 a.m. to prepare breakfast. The menu changes everyday, but staples include pecan and peach waffles, blueberry pancakes, an apple coffee cake and an egg dish affectionately called Magnolia Egg Supreme, which is ham and egg surrounded by a cheese soufflé.

Phil Wood, who used to work in the tech industry, takes the lead in the kitchen.

“I just like cooking,” he said. “I think it’s a wonderful gift to give people — wonderful food and conversation.”

Some of Tamora Wood’s fondest memories are during the breakfast hour.

“The most magical time of the day is breakfast,” she said. “Wonderful things have happened at that table.”

For example, a couple on their honeymoon recently stayed at Magnolia House. The husband was from Argentina, and it was the first birthday year he spent out of the country. One of the other guests spoke fluent Spanish and sang “Happy Birthday” to him.

The Woods are passionate about ensuring their guests’ experience is seamless. From the checking in process to what is served at breakfast, the focus is on the details and everything they do is intentional.

For example, before a guest arrives, they go into

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the room to turn on all the lights and ensure it’s at the right temperature.

And, as Tamora Wood helps with check-in, Phil Wood puts all their luggage on a rack in the room.

“So when they step into their room for the first time, it’s perfect,” he said.

Their inspiration comes from Claridge’s, a fivestar hotel in London known for its attention to detail.

“I reference that a lot,” Phil Wood said.

Tamora Wood agreed.

“It shows you have real pride in what you’re doing,” she said.

They are just as passionate about making sure their guests get the full Fredericksburg experience — no matter how long they are in town for.

Brochures and maps can be found in the common areas and they readily offer tips and suggestions — like how to ensure you get to see Enchanted Rock or where to make reservations for a romantic dinner.

“We know the place so well, and we want guests to maximize their time here,” Phil Wood said. “We like to personalize their experience and make it unique.”

And if guests are celebrating something in particular they would like to know so they can go above and beyond to make the stay special.

“We are creating people’s memories and special moments,” Tamora Wood said. “We are well aware of that, and we want them to have the most special experience.”

Courtesy Photos

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A TEXAS HILL COUNTRY TRADITION FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS

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Whether you are buying or selling, let our experience work for you Harold Crocker 830-739-0911

Robbie Crocker 830-459-0616

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Kyle Kleypas 830-459-3797

Engagements & Wedding Rings

Baublit’s

719 Water Street Kerrville, TX 830-257-8317

204 Cully Dr. • Kerrville 830-792-0808 Erika Swanson Owner

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Mary Fletcher Sales Associate 830.353.2444 Cell 713-213-0327

Manufactured Housing Specialist 1700 Sidney Baker Ste. 320 Kerrville, TX 78028 Office 830-8951801 Fax 830-895-1802 Mfletcher@c21thehills.com

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Steven Paul Premier Properties 830-285-4738 Steven R. Paul

Manufactured Home Resale Specialist “My services will exceed your expectations” 61 East Sunset Dr. Kerrville, Texas 78028

Ray Rothwell REALTOR®

830.257.6868 ray@21thehills.com

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MY PERFORMANCE WILL MOVE YOU! 49

Story by Allison BuechĂŠ

Photos by Mayra Eads

DIY Bridal Bouquet

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edding flowers are one of my favorite florals because they are incredibly versatile and custom to every bride’s taste and wedding vibe. Typically, bridal bouquets can range anywhere between $150 and $350 with florists, so cutting out the labor can save you significantly if you want to delve into the DIY floral world.

To get started for your own DIY bouquet, the supplies you will need are: • • • • • • • •

mix of fresh florals & greenery storage buckets floral scissors floral tape floral wire floral egg bouquet cage or floral foam bouquet holder ribbon push pins

Before you begin your bouquet design, carefully start with selecting the types of flowers and the size and shape of the bouquet you want to create. Bouquet designs can range significantly, and I would consider the difficulty involved with the design you want to achieve with your DIY bouquet.

Do your research online with a few YouTube videos and articles to determine the style and level of difficulty you feel comfortable recreating.

Some of the more popular bridal bouquet styles I have worked with include hand-tied bouquets and round/ posy styled types, but I have now started working with the dramatic waterfall and cascade style bouquet. It has grown in popularity, and it’s a really fun and fairly easy design if you do your research to execute it properly.

The great thing about cascading bouquets, is that they look perfectly undone. In my opinion, you can’t mess them up because they are generally loose and designed to look free and wild. Almost any flower can be used in this bouquet, but I would suggest picking very large statement blooms if you are a beginner with a large amount of greenery and a mix of filler flowers. In a cascade, you should mix textures, especially if you’re not mixing colors. Foliage and fillers cost a lot less than the main focal flowers and will help you fill in any gaps in the bouquet.

For a cascading style, floral tools that can be purchased online like an Oasis floral foam bouquet holder (presoaked) or floral egg bouquet cage will help immensely with shaping your design.

1) To build your bouquet design, start with adding greenery first to establish your frame and size it.

2) Then begin with your largest, primary blooms, spaced apart. Add in any medium-sized blooms next and filler floral and greenery at the end to fill in any gaps.

3) Once your design is completed, wire wrap a section of the stems that would be a good hand placeholder for the bride, and cover the wire with floral tape first, then ribbon and pins to secure your bouquet shape.

It’s best to assemble your bouquet no more than one day before you’ll need it. If you have a floral cooler, you can keep your bouquet there, but if not, you’ll need to find a cool place away from direct sunlight where your flowers won’t be disturbed, like a shaded, out-of-the-way corner in a cool bedroom.

51

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93 Coronado DR Ste 7 Kerrville, TX 78028 www.coolingkerrville.com TACL000165C

THE MUSEUM OF WESTERN ART Kerrville Daily Times Magazine Ad

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1550 Bandera Hwy. • Kerrville, Texas 78028 830.896.2553 • museumofwesternart.com

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❝

In Dr. Gray’s survey, 82% of couples who made meals together rated their marriage as excellent, while only 25% of couples who didn’t cook together affirmed their relationship as strongly.

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TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

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SWEET & SAVORY

I Now Pronounce You Hungry

DON’T BE STARVED FOR COMPROMISE Story by Stacy Whittemore Relationships that last, start here

The wedding was so beautiful, and the honeymoon was terrific. Then, the reality of starting a new life together creeps in. Busy schedules and not enough time together can take a toll. Staying connected ranks among the top 10 reasons marriages struggle. The surprising place you can find connectedness is in the kitchen. Food is a part of our everyday lives and is an extension of your new life together as a cooperative team with common goals. Grabbing something quick and both of you eating on the couch to watch Netflix, won’t cut it in the long run. Finding ways to cook together is the beginning of quality time.

Couples who cook together stay together

Today’s trends show overall most couples rely on one partner to do all the cooking and shopping.

Building a team approach improves communication and creates a natural “we” time over meals and meal preparation. The other benefit is tackling arguments regarding money and budgets. Eating out takes a chunk out of a budget, along with the unhealthy side effects. According to a study by relationship expert Dr. John Gray, more than 70% of surveyed married couples enjoyed cooking together and were significantly more satisfied in all areas of their lives than couples who don’t cook together.

Cooking together isn’t just for newlyweds

Empty nesters face a new future where priorities shift, and relationships enter into a new realm of two people cooking and meal planning. After years of focusing on children, it becomes a unique time to reconnect and bond.

“Having a special time to look forward to helps sustain good feelings and promotes positive anticipatory emotions,” says licensed marriage therapist Sharon O’Neill, author of “A Short Guide to a Happy Marriage.” “Such behavior shows that the couple is making their relationship a priority.”

Research indicates that preparing meals as a couple significantly influences how spouses view their relationship. In Dr. Gray’s survey, 82% of couples who made meals together rated their marriage as excellent, while only 25% of couples who didn’t cook together affirmed their relationship as strongly.

Where to start?

Begin with who does the majority of the cooking,

shopping and food prep now. Decide how to break up the tasks so each person has equal responsibilities.

Just stating you help do the dishes isn’t specific enough or balanced. Divide tasks such as cutting up the salad and vegetables to one partner while the other makes the main dish. One partner rinses the plates; the other loads the dishwasher.

What’s your budget?

Look back at the last 60 days of groceries, coffee shops and take-out purchases. What is realistic for your budget and what can be trimmed to fit into your budget? If the money spent was okay but the meal quality wasn’t excellent or it was just the same old boring meal, try new recipes or new spices.

Shopping and meal prep

Buy food intentionally. Carve out about two hours on the weekend to decide on meals. Choosing in advance helps your budget, and you determine what you both will like. If you find you go shopping and buy a lot of extra items you don’t need or blow your budget, try on-line curbside pick-up. You pick what you need and can price check if it fits in your budget.

Stock up on pantry staples. Chicken, vegetable stock, rice, quinoa and pasta can easily be mixed with fresh produce and spices. Remember to include food for breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts and snacks when planning for the week.

Make the time special

Turn off the TV and phone. Set the table. Make a pact that dinner is a no quarrel zone. Make dinner a time to reflect and share your day. A fun DIY project is both of you write topics to talk about over dinner on pieces of paper and put in a jar. As you sit down, pick a topic. For example, the teacher you loved in elementary school and why. If you could be any cartoon character, who would it be and why? The possibilities are endless. There is a hidden benefit to this, you will eat slower because of the conversation, which is better for digestion, and you don’t eat as much. It takes about 20 minutes for our stomachs to signal our brain we are full.

I hope you will be forever happy wherever you may spoon. We all have to eat; make cooking together an adventure that lasts a lifetime. For more information on meals for two and recipes, visit wayfaringspoon.com.

OUT & ABOUT Photos by Louis Amestoy

New Year’s Eve at Pier 27 River Lounge & 8 Ball Pizzeria

Mo Ranch Polar Bear Plunge

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TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

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FEBRUARY EVENTS

1 Super Ball 2020 – A Tailgate Party with a Las Vegas Flair

6 - 11 p.m. Friday. Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Highway 27. A unique event, intended to entertain guests while raising funds for the Rotary Club of Kerrville’s many service projects. Food trucks, games, Las Vegas gaming tables, raffle and more. 830-257-2828. www. kerrvillerotary.org

1 - 15 KACC Art Exhibits

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday, Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St. “Images,” annual juried members’ show, which includes the latest work in a wide range of media by some the most talented artists living and working in the Texas Hill Country. “Spacial Images & Emotional Expressions,” artwork by Hardy Lewis & Company. “Monday Artists,” small painting by the local Monday artists group.

830-895-2911. www.kacckerrville.com

1 - 16 “Sylvia”

7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 9 Sunday & 16 2:30 p.m.

Playhouse 2000 VK Garage Theater, 305 Washington St. A play by A.R. Gurney. The subject is “Sylvia,” a dog, the couple who adopts her, and the comedy that results. 830-896-9393. www.playhouse2000.com

1 - March 28 “The West in Winter: An Exhibition of Art from the Collection of Betsy and George Mathews”

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday. Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway. The collection includes works from more than 30 artists including Robert Pummill, Jim Carson, Michael Coleman, Roy Andersen and John Moyers and will consist entirely of winter scenes from the early days of the American West. 830-896-2553. www.museumofwesternart. com

4 - 7 AWOL “Artists Without Limits” HCAF Art Exhibit

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday - Friday. Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road, Ingram. An exhibit of work by HCAF retreat artists from across the state and New Mexico. 830-367-5121. www.hcaf.com

5 Wild West Wine Wednesday

5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway. The WWWW monthly event will feature an area winery, distillery or brewery, and will give attendees a chance to taste the month’s featured beverage.

This month features Frog Pond Distillery of Dripping Springs.830-896-2553. www.museumofwesternart.com

7 Family Game Night

6 - 7:30 p.m. Friday, The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive. Unplug from those electronic devices and plug in to your family by playing board games. No experience necessary – all skill levels welcome. A variety of games will be available to choose from or bring your favorite board game to share for the night. Refreshments available for purchase.

830-315-5762. www.kerrvillekroc.org

14 Family Movie Night

7 p.m. Friday, The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive. Looking for a family-friendly activity on a Friday night? Every second Friday of the month, join us at the Kroc Center for a Family Movie Night. Only G and PG rated movies will be shown. Refreshments available for purchase.

830-315-5762. www.kerrvillekroc.org

14 “One Night in Memphis”

7:30 p.m. Friday, Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St. Be a witness to rock ‘n’ roll royalty with the music and talent that has stood the test of time. True American music featuring acclaimed national talent guaranteed to get you rocking and rolling.

830-896-9393. www.caillouxtheater.com

14 - 29 “Almost Maine”

7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday 14 and 15. 2 p.m. Sunday 16 and 23. Hill Country Arts Foundation, indoor theater, 120 Point Theatre Road, Ingram. A romantic comedy that takes place in the dead of winter in a small town where the residents fall in and out of love in unexpected and often hilarious ways. 830-3687-5121. www.hcaf.com

14 - March 13 “New Works” HCAF Member’s Exhibit

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday.

Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road, Ingram. An exhibit celebrating our talented members. From paintings to pottery and glass, this show features the wide variety of work created by artists in the Hill Country. 830-3675121. www.hcaf.com

27 - March 28 KACC Art Exhibits

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday, Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St. “Guadalupe Watercolor Group,” exhibition of water media art by the members of GWG. “A Dusty Family Tree,” exhibition of artwork by Mary Kaye White & Douglas Garey. “Kerrville Art Club,” annual exhibition featuring the members of the Kerrville Art Club. Reception: Feb. 29, 2 - 4 p.m. 830-895-2911. www.kacckerrville.com

28 - March 1 “She Kills Monsters”

7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Playhouse 2000 VK Garage Theater, 305 Washington St. Playhouse 2000 Youth Theater presents “She Kills Monsters,” A dramacomedy play by Qui Nguyen. 830-896-9393. www.playhouse2000.com

29 Kerr County Market Days & Hill Country Swap Meet 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday, Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Highway 27. Market Days continues to feature artists and crafters bringing their own original handcrafted jewelry, fiber, wood, metal, soaps, lotions and more. Hill Country Swap Meet is a community garage sale and flea market with all types of merchandise. Concessions available, indoors, free parking and pet friendly. 830-4596198. www.kerrmarketdays.org

Weddings & Events

at Comanche Trace

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ith our pristinely manicured golf course, hill country views that stretch for miles in all directions, experienced staff committed to exceptional service, we are sure to make your special day one you will always cherish at Comanche Trace.

TM

www.comanchetrace.com info@comanchetrace.com 830-895-8500 ext. 236