Tex Appeal Brides July 2015

July 2015

Brides inspirations

Wedding day

suitable styles for him

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Features 6

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Choosing your cake

Wedding day inspiration

Traditions with a Twist

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Set an inviting tone

Bridal bouquets

From the Editor

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Bringing a bride’s fantasy to life

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Budget-friendly venues

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It’s his wedding, too Beauty from head to toe

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Picture yourself here

Custom catering on any budget

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Tips on finding the right photographer

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JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

Dress of your dreams Event Info & Advertiser Index

©2015 DAVID’S BRIDAL

FOREVER YOURS Fall in love all over again.

Visit davidsbridal.com or call 877.923.2743 for an appointment.

WACO, T X

1502092_Bridal_Showcase_Magazine_Ad.indd 1

6/29/15 11:06 AM

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From the Editor

Dear Readers, Welcome to the July 2015 Tex Appeal Bride’s issue. We hope that some of the ideas we’ve written about will help you as you plan that all important day in your life.

From the moment the wedding ring is placed on the bride’s finger to the planning of your honeymoon, Central Texas merchants are ready to help.

New trends bring back some of the old ideas of a wedding. Engagement rings go beyond the traditional diamond to include colored gems and repurposed heirloom diamonds. Bridal fashions are bringing back the soft, flowing fashions that give every bride a feeling of romantic femininity and bridal bouquets are longer and some are full of bling.

Grooms’ fashions have gone from traditional black to silver, gray and midnight blue selections. Local bakeries and caterers want to help you create the perfect reception for your guests and from rustic elegance to classic, local venues are ready to host your event. Personalized invitations help to set the tone for your reception and get tips to choosing the right photographer to capture every emotional moment of your wedding day. Planning your wedding just got easier with the aid of a professional wedding planner who will walk you through every step, and when it’s time to book your trip, rely on a local travel agent to book your fantasy destination wedding or honeymoon.

Catherine Hosman

Tex Appeal Editor edittexappealmagazine@gmail.com 254-501-7511

Contributors

Tex Appeal Life & Style in Central Texas

Published by

FRANK MAYBORN ENTERPRISES, INC. KILLEEN DAILY HERALD 1809 Florence Rd., Killeen, TX 76540

TEMPLE DAILY TELEGRAM 10 S. Third St., Temple, TX 76501

Publisher

SUE MAYBORN Editorial Director

M. clare haefner Editor

catherine hosman Copy Editor

lee james Graphic Designer/Photographer

JULIE NABOURS Contributors

mitchel barrett JESSA McCLURE JESSICA PEARCE

Advertising 254-774-5264 or 254-501-7496

Tex Appeal Magazine is published monthly by Frank Mayborn Enterprises, Inc. 10 S. Third St., Temple, TX 76501. The cover and content of Tex Appeal Magazine is fully protected by copyright and cannot be reproduced in any manner without prior permission.

Subscriptions: For the United States, $24 per year, 12 issues.

Jessica Pearce is a writer, independent songwriter and an award-winning published poet. Widely traveled, she taught English language and literature overseas in Bangalore, India, and blogged about her cultural experiences. Although raised in Alaska, she is a native-born Texan who now lives in Killeen where she writes for Tex Appeal and the Killeen Daily Herald.

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Mitchel Barrett is an award-winning photographer and owner of Mitchel Barrett Photography. Although originally from the British Virgin Islands, for the past 12 years he has come to call the city of Killeen his home. He developed his love of photography while attending high school at the KISD Career Center, and has enjoyed life behind the lens ever since.

JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

Jessa McClure is a part-time freelance writer and full-time mom to two energetic children. She is a longtime resident of Bell County and spends her time running around with her kids, volunteering and channeling her creativity. She finds inspiration everywhere she goes and uses these experiences to create articles that inspire and touch those who read them.

Mail check to P.O. Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114.

Questions about subscriptions, call 254-774-5264.

Postmaster: Send address changes to: Tex Appeal Magazine, P.O. Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114.

How to contact us: Advertising: Contact 254-774-5264 or 254-501-7496.

Editorial: Contact Catherine Hosman at 254-501-7511 or email edittexappealmagazine@ gmail.com.

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DESIGNER GOWNS

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}

Consignment Wedding Gowns & Decorations

tietheknotwaco.com 254-662-0549 504 Lake Air Drive, Waco T- F 1 0 - 6

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JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

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On Opposite Page: Make a statement with a traditional or vintage-inspired diamond sets, diamonds or stunning colored stones from regal blue and canary yellow to vibrant pink.

Lastovica Jewelers will customize a sentimental piece of jewelry or a new design with brightly colored stones to accent diamond centers or colored stones in a diamond-studded pavĂŠ band.

Anything goes!

Tradition with a Twist

Today’s engagement and wedding rings Story by Catherine Hosman Photos by Julie Nabours

T

here’s a lot of personalization going into choosing engagement and wedding rings these days. Gone are the rules of tradition as couples choose everything from clear and colored diamonds, aquamarine, rubies, sapphires and a new lab-created stone called Moissanite.

“Moissanite is better than cubic zirconia, it doesn’t scratch and comes in colors,” said Johnny Lastovica of Lastovica Jewelers. “It has a 9.25 hardness and costs a fraction of what a diamond of the same size would cost. For example, a 6.5-millimeter diamond would cost $5,000 compared to a Moissanite at $500.”

Diamonds, however, remain the dominant gem when it comes to engagement and wedding rings. Although clear diamonds are the first choice, Lastovica said every now and then, someone requests a colored diamond.

“Usually when someone wants a color stone, it’s to be different,” he said. “Natural-

colored diamonds with good clarity can get very expensive. On the other hand, if you take a diamond that is off color and peppered with carbon crystals, we can radiate that stone and turn it into colors from blue to black.”

Another way to get a colored diamond is to coat it in any color you want.

“You would want an inexpensive diamond to enhance the color,” he said.

But despite the occasional choice of a colored diamond, Lastovica said colored diamonds are “not so much the craze.”

Today’s couples are leaning toward a more nostalgic style of rings, and designs from the 1950s are making a comeback. Also, with more diamonds being handed down by grandmothers, Lastovica said they are doing more remounts.

For brides and grooms wanting to repurpose their grandmother’s diamond, a little patience is in order, because it could take anywhere from a week to a month.

“If we have the design in stock, we can do it pretty quickly,” said Lastovica about resetting a diamond.

“If we have to custom-make the setting, it can take anywhere from 10 days to four weeks. Each job is its own little deal and can be expensive.” Remount fees vary depending on the age of the stone and setting chosen. All work is done in-house by brothers Johnny and Billy Lastovica.

Lastovica Jewelers 1202 S. 31st St., Temple 254-773-5772 | lastovicafinejewelers.com TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Bringing a bride’s fantasy to life

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Story by CATHERINE HOSMAN Photos by JULIE NABOURS

rom Waco to Austin and beyond, Karen Bohanon of Posh Events is one of the premier wedding planners in Central Texas. Posh Events always keeps the bride’s wishes in mind, whether she chooses consultation only, partial or full planning with event design or event design on its own. Bohanon is a hands-on coordinator who walks the bride through the steps of her important day.

Brides interested in her services need to retain her as far out as one year, depending on the type of service plan they choose. “Right now I’m already getting inquiries for 2017,” she said. “It’s best to book a minimum of eight months out unless it’s prime wedding season, then at least one year out.”

Prime wedding season traditionally is March through August.

“Things begin to calm down in 10

JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

September/October,” she said. However, because of the Texas heat, Bohanon said prime season is shifting to the cooler fall months.

Service Plans Bohanon said she doesn’t offer tiered package plans and customizes each event to a bride’s specific request. To accomplish this, she offers four levels of planning: consultation only, month of coordination, partial planning and full service planning, which includes event design. However, Posh Events’ event design services can be hired independently.

Consultation “Services offered to any bride are customizable. If the bride is on a small budget, and doesn’t have a budget for the partial, full or day of, we offer consultations by the hour,” Bohanon said.

Month of Coordination Some brides want to be hands-on and plan their own weddings. They want to find and make contact with their vendors of choice, arrange the reception with the venue, order the flowers, cake, DJ and photographer and handle all details of their wedding. But on the day of the event, they want someone else to run the show.

With this plan, Bohanan will meet with the bride a month before the wedding to finalize details at the reception venue. In addition, she offers guidance and advice throughout the planning process; unlimited contact via phone and email; confirmation calls with vendors to implement a detailed timeline and schedule; serves as the main point of contact for all vendors; coordinates ceremony and rehearsal; offers on-site coordination and

supervision of vendor arrivals and setup; provides assistance to brides, bridal parties, families and guests throughout the day; directs guests upon arrival to ceremony and reception; distributes personal flowers to wedding party and pins on boutonnieres; lines up wedding party and cues ceremony; assists photographer with group photos; provides bridal emergency kit; manages the flow and timing of reception events; troubleshoots any problems that may arise; and distributes final payments and gratuities to vendors.

Partial Planning With partial planning, the month of coordination is included. Bohanon also will help with the basic design development for a wedding incorporating the bride’s signature style. She will help create a budget or review an existing budget; customize venue research and selection, suggest quality vendors for each budget and style and will accompany the bride to two vendor meetings of her choice.

“This package begins the moment I’m hired, usually six to eight months out,” Bohanon said.

collaborative creation between our team and you,” Bohanon said. Event design planning includes full design tailored to style and budget; consultation and style assessment; three meetings with one at the venue; color palette and design development; customized design portfolio highlighting all design details and inspirational elements; full design of all aesthetic elements (stationery, linens, floral, cake, lighting, furniture, etc.); vendor management and designer present at all design-related meetings; unlimited communication via phone and email; room layout and professional floor plan of reception and décor placement; shopping and sourcing of all items needed for design.

The most important thing a bride needs to know is her budget, Bohanon said. “I don’t care what size wedding you have, the budget is the main thing.

__________________

Full Service This plan includes day of coordination; budget planning/management; unlimited contact via phone and email; schedule and attend all vendor Karen Bohanon helps models at this month’s bridal shoot. meetings; vendor selection; arrange and attend venue tours; plan and Look for venues and vendors within that coordinate rehearsal dinner; assistance budget.” Her initial consultation is free; with bridal gown and groom’s attire; however, she does require a retainer fee assistance with bridesmaids’ and groomsto hold the date and will work with each men attire; décor, linen, floral and other bride on the terms of payment. “Everydesign elements; attend tastings and assist body is different,” she said. Check with with menu selections; stationary selection; her about a cancellation policy. Again, favor selection and assembly (does not every situation is different and the cancelinclude cost of supplies); invitation assem- lation fee could vary depending on where bly and mailing (postage not included); she is in the planning stages. arrange entertainment; negotiate and “Don’t be afraid to reach out to a review all vendor contracts; serve as main wedding coordinator or planner,” Bohapoint of contact; transportation managenon said. “He or she might see something ment; payment reminders; final vendor you don’t. Be honest about your ability payment worksheet; assist with hotel to spend and how important it is to hire room block; and event design. a wedding planner. And have fun. Every bride should have a wedding coordinaEvent Design tor.”

Whether your event design comes Posh Events, Serving Central Texas with the full service plan or you retain 254-317-8418 | posheventsco.com this independently, “event design is a

g e o rg i o s b r i d a l s a l o n . c o m 921 Lake Air Drive, Waco 254-772-0265 M-F 10-5:30

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Budget-friendly, rustic- themed wedding venues Find the perfect fit for your ceremony and reception

Story by Jessa McClure Contributed photos La Rio Mansion Against the backdrop of sprawling fields and towering oak trees is the La Rio Mansion wedding venue. It features breathtaking views, Spanish-style architecture and lighting you won’t get anywhere else. This primarily outdoor location is perfect for the bride and groom who want to celebrate their love under open, Texas skies or twinkling stars.

“We have an outdoor reception space that seats up to 250 people,” said Giselle Callahan, venue manager and marketing director. “We are one of the only venues in the area that can accommodate that many guests; and we offer a lot that the couple wouldn’t have to rent somewhere else.”

The price of renting the venue includes café lighting in the reception space that could run around $1,500 if rented somewhere else, 250 Chavari chairs that are usually $10 a piece to rent, and tents that can be thousands of dollars to rent separately.

And although the venue rental by itself comes with a number of perks, couples also can choose to purchase an all-inclusive wedding package that can be catered to small budgets as well as extravagant ones.

“They include pretty much everything for an entire wedding and they start at $15,000,” Callahan said. “The only things not included are the dress, the 12

JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

shoes and the hair and makeup.”

These packages can include a range of options to help the bride and groom design a stress-free wedding. Couples will meet with planners and other venue staff to choose music, stationery, photographers and caterers to create an elegant and one-of-a-kind wedding.

And because La Rio Mansion is owned by Samir and Lily Halabi of Lily’s Cakes in Harker Heights, all-inclusive packages also come with complimentary wedding cake tastings and a three or fourtiered wedding cake.

“We are also one of the only venues in the area that can accommodate out-of-town guests,” Callahan said. “We have five guest rooms inside the mansion.

They aren’t a separate cost. It’s just a nice thing we have to offer.”

The private mansion, which is set on 37 acres, is available for an entire wedding weekend with no extra cost to the bride and groom.

“We really do want to give couples the nicest wedding and the most stressfree experience possible,” she said.

La Rio Mansion 4501 Dice Grove Road, Belton 254-833-7670 | lariomansion.com Continued

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JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

Knob Creek Chapel & Reception Hall Seven miles from Temple Mall sits a secluded expanse of 20 acres of land that is home to the Knob Creek Chapel & Reception Hall. Its rustic Texas charm and picturesque landscaping create a wedding venue any bride and groom would be happy to book. “It’s very quiet. You really don’t even see it from the road,” said owner Roy Long. “It’s very private in that manner.”

Along with large trees and a charming pond, the limestone façade and barn wood interior create an atmosphere perfect for any rustic-themed wedding.

The venue was actually created initially for Long’s wedding to his wife, Laura, in August 2006.

“My first wife and I had a wedding rental business. She passed away in 2002 and it didn’t seem quite the same,” Long said. “So I decided to sell it. The young lady who was asking to buy the business asked if I was single. I told her I was a widower. She said she had somebody she wanted me to meet. We hit it off well.”

A year later, the couple was engaged and Long began building the chapel and reception hall for his new bride.

“Laura and I got married here, and

now we rent it to other folks,” he said.

For the past seven years, the couple has been renting out their elegant country venue for couples who are looking for a beautiful and inexpensive location to get married. Their prices are perfect for a bride and groom with a small budget, who don’t want a lot of bells and whistles.

But, if a couple is looking for more, Long said they quote them a package price with recommendations on vendors for everything from flowers to catering to DJs. Along with indoor space for 175 people, the venue also comes equipped with a sound system, a bandstand, round tables and plywood chairs. Long said another aspect of Knob Creek Chapel & Reception Hall that makes it unique is the ability to go from an outdoor wedding to an indoor wedding at a moment’s notice.

“It’s the only place in the county where you can have an outdoor wedding planned and if the weather turns bad, we’ve got a chapel to move it inside,” he said. “You can decorate the chapel in less than 30 minutes.”

Knob Creek Chapel & Reception Hall 7196 FM 436, Temple 254-983-0020 | knobcreekchapel.com

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JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

Dr. Terry Proctor - Dr. Steve Piña

4206 Lowes Dr. Temple 254-778-5070 foresttraildental.com

Custom catering on any budget Story by Catherine Hosman Contributed photos

Country Chic Catering If you are wishing for a true Texas wedding with all the rustic elegance you can find, Anna Mikeska of Country Chic Catering can accommodate your vision.

From the traditional barbecue buffet with all the trimmings to a more elegant selection, such as grilled chicken breast, pork chops, smoked pork loin, catfish, chickenfried chicken or chicken fried-steak, and fresh sides. Like any caterer, Mikeska will work within your budget. But be prepared to select options, depending on how much you have to spend.

In addition, country-themed decorations are available for rent and can be prepackaged with a menu selection.

“We do all kinds of weddings in specialty halls, at ranches, outdoor venues,” said Mikeska. “Props are separately priced and are only rented out with our food service. We don’t rent out equipment independently.”

priced differently. Prices can range from $14.95 per person to $29.95 per person depending on menu, number of people and final head count. We can do weddings on disposable plates or on china.

For the “do it yourself” bride and groom, we offer pick-up service, which is the least expensive way to go and ranges in price from $14.95 to $16.95, again depending on menu choices. It’s the bare minimum with two meats, three sides.

What decorations do you offer?

We have wine barrels, vintage doors, farm tables, vintage silver, a vintage covered wagon, vintage cars and lanterns. Our props are for the food area only. We are not connected to the decor of the other areas.

What about tax and gratuity?

A 20 percent gratuity and 8.75 percent sales tax will be added to the final bill.

How far in advance must a bride book?

The sooner the better; some couples book a year or six months out, but we can take a one-month notice to get something on the books. In some instances we can take a two-week notice. As soon as they know something, let’s start the conversation.

When is the guarantee due?

The guarantee is due no later than one week before the wedding.

Do you offer tiered budget pricing?

Tiers didn’t work. We just do the prepackaging with props. We can do any number of people, but go out for groups of 60 or more. Every catering event is

Do couples prefer a plated dinner or barbecue buffet?

We do more than barbecue and can do a china-plated service as well.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you need to cancel, we need one month’s notice before the event.

What is the most popular menu item?

Barbecue is always a favorite. Brides like the grilled items for their reception dinners.

Can we taste the menu?

We offer free tastings. We have so much to offer, including a roast beef carving station which we slice on location.

What other services do you provide?

For the catered event, Mikeska said they clear and replenish plates, will cut and serve the wedding cake and have an endof-the-evening care package for the bride and groom, which includes a boxed meal and cake box.

What if I change my mind about the menu?

Changing your mind is no problem as long as notice is given.

Do you serve alcohol?

We offer bar service for $300 a bartender, Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commisioncertified. We serve all alcohol and provide cups if needed.

“All of the brides we’ve ever worked with were great gals who were calm, relaxed and happy brides. We are going to create your wedding with respect and treat it like it was our own,” said Anna Mikeska.

Country Chic Catering 254-718-1756 or 254-718-3299 clembb.com

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TCP Catering Danny Vickers, co-owner of family-owned and operated TCP Catering, likes to do business on a personal basis when it comes to planning for his clients’ weddings. He is a food-only vendor and his a la carte menu offers a variety of chicken, pork and beef entrees. His premium menu includes grilled ribeye steaks, prime rib, filet mignon, and Beef Wellington, to name a few. Vickers doesn’t offer package plans, but will build the menu around your budget. He accepts groups of any size, but cautions that prices do vary with selection and volume.

In business since 1979, they have locations in Marlin and Watauga, just outside of Fort Worth. Most recently, TCP Catering acquired Cathedral Oaks Event Center in Belton.

How far in advance must a bride book?

We try to be extremely flexible with scheduling. We usually see brides shortly after they’ve booked a venue but we can, and we have, put together catering arrangements on very short notice, sometimes as little as a couple of weeks.

Do you require a deposit?

No deposit is required. We have the capability to book multiple events each weekend and we won’t purchase any inventory or supplies for your wedding until the week of the event, so we don’t need a deposit to hold the date for you.

What is the most popular menu for a wedding?

Our Chicken Florentine has been a popular selection. It’s a boneless chicken breast, pounded thin, and stuffed with a blend of fresh baby spinach, roasted red peppers, Italian herbs and cheeses, rolled in Panko breadcrumbs. Chicken Florentine pairs nicely with white cheddar mashed potatoes, haricot vert and baby carrots.

What about tax and gratuity?

Sales tax is added to your invoice but there are no other automatic fees or charges added. Gratuities are welcomed, but not automatically added to invoices.

When is the guarantee due?

We want to allow you as much time as possible. Therefore, we ask brides to call us with a final number by 10 a.m. on the day before the wedding. This helps to make sure that we are able to provide enough product to serve those last-minute guests and we don’t penalize our customer for last-minute changes.

What is your cancellation policy?

Because we don’t require a deposit, there is no set cancellation policy. We will reserve a spot for your event and if your plans change, we will accept your cancellation at any time without penalty.

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JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

Do couples prefer a plated dinner or buffet?

We offer both plated dinners and buffet options; however, buffet style is appealing to many clients since we can offer more variety at a lower cost. The reduced rate is based on the difference in labor and staffing requirements between the two service styles. We will gladly consult with you one-on-one to assist you in making your decision, and provide estimates each way.

age, we want our customers to know all their options, including those that are price-competitive. We can suggest vendors who do rent linens, which is usually the most cost-effective way. Also, many venues are beginning to offer linen packages to brides and grooms at competitive prices.

A bride planning a wedding has many options available to her and we want to help her find the one that suits best her particular needs.

Can we taste the menu?

We offer tastings and consultations at our restaurant in Marlin. This affords a bride and groom the opportunity to sample selected items from our catering menu, which may help them make their final menu decisions.

Can we order wedding cakes from you?

Our daughter, Lauren Wilson, offers a wide variety of custom cakes, wedding cakes and specialty desserts through Creative Confections by TCP Catering. She can help you arrange an appointment for a cake consultation.

What if I change my mind about the selected menu?

We believe that we best serve our customers when we make their planning experience with us as simple and easy as possible. For this reason, brides can make menu changes or, for that matter, changes to any part of the catering arrangements at any time without penalty. We see this as one way to serve our customers.

Do you serve alcohol?

We do not have the licenses and permits to sell liquor, beer or wine. However, we have several TABC-certified staff people and we can recommend to you some very capable bartending professionals whose work is exceptional and who believe, as we do, in customer service first.

Do you provide linens?

Although we can offer you a linen pack-

TCP Catering has two locations: 504 Bridge St., Marlin Contact Danny Vickers at danny@tcpcatering.com | 254-883-3630 6717 Rufe Snow Drive, Watauga Contact Scott Vickers at scott@tcpcatering.com | 817-889-4827 Cathedral Oaks Event Center in Belton.

Creative Confections by TCP Catering 1312 Waco Road, Belton cathedral-oaks.com | 254-939-6257 Contact Lauren Wilson at lauren@cathedral-oaks.com TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Tips on finding

the right photographer

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Story by Catherine Hosman inding the right photographer to capture the blissful and hectic moments of your wedding takes some footwork for the couple getting ready to say “I do.” There are many aspects to consider, with the most important being a personal connection with a professional.

Brenda Lanig of Brenda Lanig PhotoART said selecting a wedding photographer for the most memorable day of your life can be one of the most important decisions you make as a couple.

“Anyone with a camera can get a few great shots but can they ‘capture the whole day’ and photograph all the beauty, details, emotion to really tell the whole story?” she said. “The saddest story I hear about weddings is that there are no good photos to remember it by because the memories were trusted to an amateur.”

As soon as the wedding date is set

and the venue is booked, Lanig said couples should start the search for the best photographer. She advises they interview a potential photographer to see if he or she is likeable, enthusiastic and eager to work for you. “No one wants a grouch around on the most memorable day of their life.”

Lanig’s passion for photographing weddings comes from her love of the sacred ceremony that has its own range of emotions, the celebration itself and the families. She said her photography is an artistic, storytelling style attempting to capture as much of the color, detail and action in real time as possible.

“I love capturing the story and the ‘art’ in those moments,” she said. “Photographing weddings is a historical record for the generations and should be true to the moment. A photographer’s best work should not consist primarily of staged photo shoots, but of actual, real-life wed-

dings with all the variables of working with time limitations, pressure, emotional and distracted people.”

She said it is often it up to the photographer to move the schedule along, ease the tension and direct traffic — all while photographing the action.

Lanig books weddings nine to 12 months in advance, with some brides booking far more than a year out. She offers three flexible packages that cost $1,490, $2,490 and $2,990, and run four, six and eight hours, respectively. Hours may be added and all packages include a custom-designed Leather ARTbook album from Italy. A $300 retainer fee is required to hold a date and is applied to the balance of the package chosen.

Brenda Lanig PhotoART Temple, by appointment only 254-231-2656

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cake by Simply Sweet 22

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Choosing your cake and eating it, too!

Story by JESSICA PEARCE Simply Sweet Traceylyn Chudej, owner of Simply Sweet in Little River, has been making wedding cakes for the past 10 years, crafting confections in traditional flavors like butter or chocolate and specialty flavors like pineapple and Italian cream.

“I began doing cakes for the fun of it,” Chudej said. “When I started this business, my family came down and remodeled the building behind my house into a bakery.”

Chudej is a vendor at three to four bridal shows a year, where she networks with brides in the Belton-Temple area.

Many local wedding vendors also refer their bridal clients to her for custom cakes.

Her cakes range in price depending on the number of tiers, the number of wedding guests, whether the couple plans to freeze the top cake tier for their oneyear anniversary and the amount of detail involved in the cake’s creation. A small, simply designed two-tiered cake starts at $88, moving up in price depending on its design. Chudej prices most of her cakes between $3.75 per serving to $4.75 per serving, depending on the cake’s complexity, working with her clients to determine a price ahead of time. She also holds free cake tasting sessions for clients by appointment.

Chudej advises brides to reserve their cake(s) at least a few months in advance or more, especially if their wedding is during March, May, June or October, which are the busiest months for weddings in Texas. She also asks clients to put down a $100 deposit to reserve the date in her busy schedule.

In addition to making traditional wedding cakes, Chudej enjoys making unique groom’s cakes in the design of their choice.

UT Tower groom’s cake by Simply Sweet “These days, grooms are picking designer cakes,” she said. “I’ve done the Texas A&M Stadium, a beer bucket cake with real beer bottles, the U.S. Marines logo, and plenty of school logos.”

Chudej specializes in using buttercream icing on all her cakes instead of bending to the current trend of wrapping them in fondant.

“I am a stickler for buttercream,” she said.

Simply Sweet Bakery 14011 Reeds Lake Loop, Rogers 254-982-4900 | cakesbysimplysweet.com

Kristy’s Kreations Kristy’s Kreations, located in Hewitt, creates custom wedding cakes from the traditional to the unusual. Open three years at this location, owner Kristy Deaver has more than 15 years of experience.

Although she does use fondant in her custom bridal cakes, buttercream icing is her forte. “Ninety-five percent of the wedding cakes we do are buttercream,” she said. “Sugar paste flowers are also our specialty.”

Deaver’s most popular wedding cake flavors are tiramisu and butter or chocolate cake with raspberry filling. Deaver also receives many requests for unique flavors, such as maple-bacon and chocolate stout for groom’s cakes.

Most of Deaver’s cakes are priced by the number of servings, which range from $3.50 to $4 per serving, depending on the complexity of the cake. Deaver said a two-layer cake for about 50 guests starts at $125, while a three-layer cake for 100 guests is about $400. For bridal parties of 200 guests or more, Deaver sticks to a perserving price. For highly elaborate cakes, Deaver charges a $20 to $40 surcharge per additional item.

For larger wedding parties, Deaver said she often makes “back-of-the-house” cakes for $1 per serving. She explained that a couple who wants to spend less on their cake can purchase a medium-sized designer cake and have these additional “house” cakes cut in the kitchen away from the guests and served on nice plates so that every guest gets a generous serving.

“Normally, we ask what their ‘dream wedding cake’ is,” she said. “We don’t do ‘fake’ cake layers, either. We’ll factor in the price of the groom’s cake (during the consultation).”

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as a deposit to book her services. In the event of a cancellation, the customer can apply their deposit money to another cake within a year’s time. She suggests that wedding couples book their cakes around six months in advance, especially for May and June weddings. “A lot of bridal magazines say two months, but that’s cutting it close,” she said. Deaver does not charge a delivery fee within the TempleBelton area, and charges a minimal $25 delivery fee for cities such as Killeen that are farther away from her bakery.

Kristy’s Creations Bakery 235 N. Hewitt Drive,Hewitt 254-216-0004

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Ye Olde English Bakery and Deli Ye Olde English Bakery and Deli in Temple boasts an establishment that has been in business since 1979, creating custom wedding cakes that taste as good as they look. Owners Karl and Lee Watson, two brothers originally from Nuneaton, a small town in England near Birmingham, brought their baking know-how to Texas when they purchased the business from their uncle in June 2012.

Their most popular wedding cake flavors range from traditional vanilla and chocolate to decadent red velvet, Italian cream and strawberry. Ninety percent of their cakes are decorated in buttercream icing, although they also decorate with freshly made rolled fondant upon request.

“People always say (our cakes) stay moist even more than homemade cakes do,” Karl said.

The Watsons price their wedding cakes by the tier and by how much detail is involved in its creation. A basic twotiered cake iced in buttercream that feeds 50 guests costs $115, while the same cake decorated in rolled fondant starts at $145. A cake for 200 guests starts at $320 for buttercream icing and $420 for rolled fondant. Wedding cakes that serve more than 250 guests start at $425 for buttercream and $575 for rolled fondant.

Individual prices, including separate pricing for groom’s cakes, vary according to each client’s wishes.

“Most people want a custom groom’s cake, and that would be priced at the time of the order,” Karl said.

Taste tests for bridal parties are offered for a $25 fee that is deducted from the price of their cake when the order is placed. While they can accommodate

some walk-in appointments, parties who book a taste-testing in advance can sample two cake flavors, a filling flavor and the icing of their choice.

Fifty percent of the total wedding cake order is required as a deposit, with the balance due two weeks before the wedding date. If there is an order cancellation less than 14 days before the wedding, the deposit would be forfeited. If a cake is canceled any other time before the wedding, the client would forfeit half of the deposit.

“We ask for the deposit so we can save that (date) for the cake ordered and so that we do not overbook ourselves,” Karl said.

Ye Olde English Bakery and Deli 1401 S. 31st St., Temple 254-778-3865 yeoldenglishbakerydeli.com

stillhousewine room

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Set an inviting tone

Story by Catherine Hosman Photos courtesy of Studio W Design and Shelly Taylor Photography

ersonalizing wedding invitations is a trend for couples getting married in the 21st century.

“By putting your own personality into it as a couple it sets the tone for the entire day,” said Teresa Williams, owner and designer, of Studio W Designs. “Guests will look at your invitations and know this is what they can expect for your wedding day.”

Her customized invitations range from the whimsical, like “The Catch of a Lifetime,” a fishing enthusiast’s invitation; to a “Beauty and the Beast” theme, complete with the rose; to her hand-created calligraphy invitations.

“For my clients who want custom work and not the traditional ivory card with black typeface, the calligraphy look and watercolor look is popular,” she said. “It depends on the bride.

For the bride who wants traditional, we have that as well.”

When ordering wedding invitations, Williams said don’t wait until the month before your nuptials. Invitations should be ordered four to six months out because production times can vary depending on where you purchase invitations. “Invitations should be mailed out six to eight weeks in advance,” she said.

When ordering from Studio W Designs, be prepared to pay 50 percent of the cost up front. The final balance is due when you pick up your order.

In addition to the invitation, Williams said 90 percent of her clients order save the date cards, which should be mailed out six to eight months before the wedding. “Postcards are popular because they are inexpensive,” she said. Couples can also send save the date magnets.

Be sure to order thank-you cards at the same time you order invitations. Thank-you cards need to go out no more than four to six weeks after the wedding. “This gives you time to get past the wedding and honeymoon,” she said. Although her prices vary, depending on the type of invite and customization, Williams said she can work with your budget. “Don’t assume you can’t afford custom invitations. That is not true,” she said.

Studio W Designs is primarily an online design shop, but if you desire to see samples and meet in person she does schedule consultation appointments.

Studio W Designs | studiowdesigns.com teresa@studiowdesigns.com

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If you can think it ~ I can make it!

Just the way you want it!

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JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

Bridal

Alterations ~ Curtains Prom ~ Costumes & More Evelyn Montgomery 254-770-1875 • 713-875-0030 sewbeautifulbyevelyn@yahoo.com

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Wedding day inspiration Styled by POSH EVENTS Photos by JULIE NABOURS

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Planner:

POSH EVENTS, CENTRAL TEXAS

Dress:

MAIN STREET BRIDAL, BELTON

Make-up:

FASCINO BEAUTY, SALADO

Hair

: BE.YOU.TIFUL SALON, BELTON

Style items (props):

CONFETTI RENTALS, HARKER HEIGHTS

Cake:

LILY’S CAKES, HARKER HEIGHTS

Stationery

: STUDIO W DESIGN, TEMPLE

Floral

: CREATIVE INNOVATIONS, SALADO

Venue:

BEAR CREEK, OGLESBY

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Perez + Locke

Stacie Perez Locke and Jared Locke said their “I dos” on April 18, 2015, at the First Baptist Church in Nolanville. She is the executive officer for the Central Texas Home and Builders Association and her husband, Jared, works as an accountant at the Fort Hood Association of Realtors.

Stacie is wearing the Mori Lee gown from the Madeline Gardner Exclusive Blu collection. This elegant and romantic dress features a full length aline ballgown with a train. The gown is ivory and is sheathed in a luxurious stretch of Duchess satin and features a strapless sweetheart neckline with mid-back design. Asymmetrical pleating runs over the mock wrapped bodice and a beaded metallic waistband features fine crystals and fits the natural waist.

Her cascading bouquet was designed by Ashley Austin at Christell’s Flowers in Killeen and is created from white phalaenopsis orchids; stephanotis, white football mums, ivory roses, ivory garden roses, white misty, Italian ruscus, hanging amaranthus and variegated ivy. Her hairpiece is made from Italian ruscus and peach stock.

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Bridal bouquets Create a garden fresh feel Story by Catherine Hosman

Arrangements by Creative Innovations Flowers, photo by Brenda Lanig PhotoART

Creative Innovations Flowers When it comes to bouquets for today’s bride, Ginny Swalley is into bling.

“Brides always want bling,” she said.

That bling can be something new, borrowed or old, but Swalley said brides usually opt for some sort of family memento, such as pearls, a brooch from their grandmother, a photo of their grandfather or father, or lace from their mother’s or grandmother’s gown.

“Weddings are personal and brides make their own traditions,” she said.

Coral is still a popular color for flowers, with pink and burgundy a close second. Many brides are choosing a garden look with traditional roses, vintage garden roses, ranunculus, small, petite open flowers and peonies for that beautiful soft look.

Shades of champagne lace also can be added to the bouquet.

Swalley said there is a trend leaning away from corsages for the mothers and grandmothers of the bride and groom.

“Some say they get in the way. It was a traditional thing, but a thing of the past.

Now they opt to carry a small bouquet, single rose or a mini-version of the bridal bouquet with only five flowers,” Swalley said.

Lanterns and candles are popular in churches and create a romantic environment. Swalley said to cut costs, brides can pick up props, such as lanterns, vases and bird cages, from a local hobby store or online at reasonable prices. “Bring them to us and we will build from there,” she said.

“Let’s not just do a centerpiece, flowers are not so much the point — it’s an accent for the design.”

Creative Innovations doesn’t offer package plans, but Swalley said she will work with any bride’s budget. “If she only has $500, we will work with that,” she Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Arrangement by Creative Innovations Flowers, photo by Kelley Cameron Photography

said, adding that keeping within a budget depends on the type of flowers chosen.

“We will meet any bride’s budget within reasonable expectations, even for large events.”

Once a budget is decided, Swalley will present a floral proposal. Once the proposal is agreed upon, a non refundable deposit is due to reserve the date with the balance due two weeks before the wedding. The deposit goes toward the price of the flowers. Swalley works directly with the bride unless she has a full-service wedding planner. She will coordinate with caterers on linen samples to make sure they have the right colors to tie in with the flowers. If she thinks a better linen is in order, she might suggest taking a portion of the flower budget to put toward the higher quality linens.

“Don’t spend money or buy things on sale until you make up your mind what your wedding is going to look like,” she advised. “Wait until you know how you want your wedding to look rather than impulse-buying when things are on sale.”

Creative Innovations Flowers 2211 Thomas Arnold Road, Salado 254-760-2620 creativeinnovationsweddings.com 48

JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

Arrangement by Creative Innovations Flowers, photo by Shelly Taylor Photography

Woods Flowers Next to the bride, flowers are a focal point in most weddings. Choosing the right bridal and bridal party bouquets, boutonnières and corsages, as well as decorative table centerpieces, is an individual decision based on budget, types of flowers, number of people in the bridal party and number of guests. This summer popular flowers include peonies, hydrangeas, wild flowers with billy balls and thistles, scabiosas and roses, said Carol Hajda of Woods Flowers in Temple.

“Cool water tones are very popular right now. It creates more of a vintage look. Not a bold color; more subdued.

Brides are staying with soft pinks, cream colors and corals.”

Instead of the traditional round bouquet for brides, Hajda said they are changing to a more elongated style and the cascade is making a comeback.

“It’s more of a garden look, more airy instead of the packed look, like in the past,” she said.

Hajda said brides need to understand that flowers are seasonal and what they see in a bridal magazine may not be available for their wedding.

“We will substitute with suggestions,” she said. “We usually have flowers in the

cooler and can show the difference. It may not be an exact match, but I always let them see what I can substitute.”

When choosing flowers for the mothers of the bride and groom, Hajda said brides are opting for mini versions of their own bouquets, pinned or wrist, “not typically hand-held anymore.” And stay away from the roses and carnations for the men. Instead, choose a variegated style with two or three different types of flowers and greenery instead of one bud.

Some designs can clip onto a mother’s purse. Grandmothers get a smaller variety of the mothers’ corsage.

Hajda said its best to select a florist at least five to six months out to ensure you will get the kind of flowers you want.

Be prepared to leave a 20 percent deposit to hold the order. The balance is due one month before your wedding.

Cost varies depending on the type of flowers chosen and Hajda said she will work within any bride’s budget. Although she doesn’t offer a range of packages, she does offer a budget package for a small wedding that would include a bridal bouquet, two bridesmaids bouquets, boutonnières for the fathers of the bride and groom and two groomsmen. Flower

Arrangements on this page by Woods Flowers, contributed photos

girls get fresh petals, with rose petals being the most popular. But check with your church first as some churches don’t allow

the petals.

In addition to bridal bouquets and table arrangements, Woods Flowers can also prepare pew markers and formal arrangements for the church. If you are working through a wedding planner, Hajda said she wants the bride there. “I always want the bride to be included.”

Woods Flowers does not offer a traditional cancellation policy, but if you need to make changes, Hajda askes for a two-week notice.

“Anything could happen,” she said.

Woods Flowers 2019 Market Loop Square, Temple 254-774-8822 woodsflowersoftemple.com

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IT’s HIS Wedding, Too suitable styles that reflect his personality Story by CATHERINE HOSMAN Photos by MITCHEL BARRETT

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The midnight blue tuxedo by Michael Kors and Silver Savoy tuxedo by Jean Yves are two of the latest trends in wedding attire for men. Made of super 130 lightweight wools, they are soft and easy to wear in the Texas heat.

Both tuxedoes, exclusively available at Al’s Formal Wear, work well for either a daytime or evening wedding, but it’s not a traditional tuxedo.

“These are both classified as tuxedos but they are also considered a ceremonial suit as well,” said Melinda Gordon, vice president of merchandise for Al’s Formal Wear.

Charcoal gray is also a popular choice for grooms and groomsmen with black remaining the most popular. Trends in accessories have gone back to the bowtie (as opposed to the long neckties), which Gordon said has become popular, along with vests versus cummerbunds.

“And if the men want to forgo the vest, colored suspenders are popular,” she said. “At the reception, men like to take their coats off and let the suspenders hang down over their pants for a fun look.”

Another style for today’s groom is the slim fit tuxedo available in true slim fit sizes by Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren and Doni Barassi, Al’s private label. Additional designers that Al’s Formal Wear carries in their rental line are Joseph Abboud, Perry Ellis and Allure for Men.

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When it comes to reserving tuxedos, Gordon advises that the groom’s party comes in at least three months in advance, which gives the attendants enough time to submit their sizes.

Gordon said tuxedo reservations can be done a couple of ways. The bride and groom come in and make their formalwear selection for all the attendants in the party, or the attendants can schedule their own fitting, according to their schedule. Gordon said attendants can reserve their outfit at any Al’s Formal Wear in the four-state region they serve, or go they can go to any tailor or other formalwear shop to get their measurement taken and then submit their sizes online.

Al’s is a one-stop shop for many wedding services including photography, videography, DJ services, invitations and groom’s gift. Al’s makes it easy for the bride to work with one consultant for all of these services, including formal wear.

Al’s Formal Wear is a Texas owned, family operated business that opened its doors in 1957.

“Al was a real person who created a great business and the second generation is carrying on,” said Gordon, daughter of the founder.

There are 80 locations in four states: Texas, Colorado, Louisiana and Oklahoma.

Al’s Formal Wear 2930 S. 31st St., Market Place Shopping Center, Temple 254-778-3309 | alsformalwear.com

A big Thank You to The Patio on Main in Temple for allowing these handsome gentlemen to model throughout their establishment during business Hours TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

Bridal beauty from head to toe

Story by Jessica Pearce

éLan Salon & Spa in Temple is a stately stone building that sits on its own private acreage surrounded by lush green trees. Co-owned by Angela and Bart Bass, the spa offers a complete range of salon and spa services for brides and bridal parties. Although éLan does not have pre-set bridal packages, they allow bridal parties to customize their services and treatments instead. The salon offers bridal updos and styles that start at $60 and go up in price depending on the extravagance and time involved in creating the style.

“I really encourage people to come in for a consultation and trial run,” Manager Angela Bass said. “(The wedding) is an important day for them, and we want to make it as special as we can.”

Angela said that brides are “nervous enough on their big day,” and that a trial run will help mitigate any unknown factors. She also encouraged bridesmaids and mothers of the bride to do miniconsultations in advance of the wedding, if at all possible.

“We do welcome pictures and ideas of what they want,” she said, but explained that factors like hair color, face shape and even glasses can make a hairstyle or updo look different from one person to the next, further emphasizing the need for a pre-wedding consultation.

In addition to a trial run, Bass said they ask clients to come to the salon with dry hair that has been washed the day before rather than the day of so that the hair is not too slippery. Clients are also instructed to wear a button-up shirt so that they can easily change into wedding attire without disturbing their hair or makeup. éLan’s spa services for bridal parties include manicures and pedicures, including gel nail treatments using C&D gel shellac, which lasts up to two weeks.

“Bridal parties can get their nails done earlier in the week prior to the wedding,” Bass said. “(The gel polish) stays on longer, especially for honeymoons involving the beach or saltwater.” éLan offers bridal makeup services

using Jane Iredale mineral makeup beginning at $45. Bass encourages a trial run on this as well to ensure brides receive the look they want to achieve.

Besides makeup, éLan also offers Xtreme Lashes eyelash extensions, a popular service for brides. The extensions last two to three weeks, then clients get “fills” as the extensions grow out. Bass recommended trying the lashes far in advance of the wedding so the bride knows how her extensions will grow out, then doing a full set again a week in advance of the wedding.

The spa offers a wide range of massages and facials from deep tissue and Swedish massage to European facials and dermaplaning. Bass explained that dermaplaning, a popular service for brides, removes dead skin cells and unwanted facial hair to reveal brighter, cleanerlooking skin.

“Brides tend to do dermaplaning two to three weeks in advance of the wedding in case of skin sensitivity and so that dead skin can slough off,” Bass said.

Another treatment popular with bridal parties is éLan’s Sun FX spray tanning, which delivers a safe, natural-looking tan for only $35.

“I talked to a doctor at Scott & White Hospital and made sure the ingredients (in Sun FX) were safe, even for pregnant women,” Bass said. “Now, I’m getting referrals from Scott & White for pregnant clients.”

Bass advised bridal parties to book their services at least six to eight weeks in advance; if the wedding is in November or December during the holiday season, she advised they book several months in advance.

“The hardest thing is when (brides) wait too long to book,” she said. “Saturdays are the busiest day for the salon.” éLan has brides sign a contract detailing the services they and their bridal parties will have completed. Every reservation for parties of five or more people requires a $150 deposit, while a

reservation of six or more people requires a $250 deposit. éLan requires that any cancellations be made 14 days in advance of the booking reservation. If the booking is canceled less than 14 days prior to the reservation, the bridal party is liable for half the cost of the services listed in the contract. With advance planning and trial consultations, éLan Salon and Spa stands to offer brides and their bridal parties a relaxing, memorable experience. éLan Salon & Spa 2320 Airport Road, Temple 254-771-4040 | elan-salonandspa.com

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Bridal emergency kit

what every bride or maid-of-honor should have in her bag for the big day 1

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1. bobby pins 2. cotton swabs 3. disposable razor 4. hand lotion 5. manicure set 6. dress tape 7. safety pins

8. ibuprofen or aspirin 9. blotting paper 10. drinking straws 11. tissue 12. small snacks (granola is filling) 13. baby powder 14. Shout wipes

15. breath mints 16. Band-aids 17. deodorant 18. baby wipes 19. hair spray 20. disposable tooth brushes TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Picture Yourself [ HERE ]

Story by Catherine Hosman Photo courtesy of Desiree Hall inding the perfect honeymoon location is often based on a couple’s timeframe, destination distance and budget.

While some couples like to stay closer to home, Desiree Hall of Send Me to Paradise said she has sent several couples to Rome, Florence and Venice. “Venice is one of the most romantic cities I’ve ever seen.”

Hawaii is a popular destination, as are all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean.

“Escorted tours are popular among couples who might want a more comprehensive tour package, but the more seasoned traveler might want to make their own tours with stays at bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, or even castles.

“Our clients know the value of Mexico and the Caribbean and have made these destinations the top choice for honeymoons. Charter flights, combined with a variety of adult only, luxury resorts make Mexico and Jamaica the most popular choices, as well as other islands like

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St. Lucia, Barbados, Dominican Republic and Antigua.”

Hall said cruises are an excellent value for honeymooners. They can see multiple islands and do a variety of shore excursions. “Major cruise lines have lovely suites with balconies, upgraded amenities and services. Windstar cruises are popular for those wanting a more intimate feel with visits to more exotic locales. If you are not the adventurous type, cruises to Canada and New England, Alaska and Hawaii are great alternatives to the Caribbean.”

For the destination wedding, Hall said Mexico and Jamaica are choices for many couples. She works with the bride to help find the perfect setting and location for her ceremony, and then puts her in contact with the wedding coordinators at the resorts to work out the details. She also sees to it that friends and family who are joining the bridal party “have a seamless travel experience and are able to focus on enjoying their time on the trip.”

If you are on a budget, but still want to take a honeymoon, packages are available. Hall takes the budget into consider-

ation and recommends several options.

Hall travels to the destinations she recommends and said she only recommends properties she has stayed at as a guest, personally toured, or those she has sold many times. Various charter flights from Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and Austin help keep the costs down for the flights, she said. “All-inclusive resorts are just that — all inclusive with no hidden costs.”

Although most of the destinations Hall books for couples don’t have any sort of warnings or precautions, she said if you have any health concerns that might cause problems, it’s always best to consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations.

Other issues Hall said you should discuss with your travel agent are proper travel documentation and weather conditions during your travel dates.

“And I always recommend trip insurance just in case.”

Send Me to Paradise, Belton Desiree Hall 254-931-3704 | sendmetoparadise.com TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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The dress of your dreams Story by CATHERINE HOSMAN Photos courtesy of Georgio’s Bridal & Prom

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carfy, flowing and romantic is one way Belva Harvey of Georgio’s Bridal Salon describes this year’s trend in bridal gowns. Other popular styles include strapless, which she said will be around for awhile. Capped and long sleeves belled at the wrist are making a comeback and laced bodices that reach up to the neck are trending. The deep-cut back with a lace overlay continues to add the wow factor to bridal gowns.

“So much is lace overlay with a satin underlining,” Harvey said. Flowing dresses made from chiffon, puffy chiffons and netting create the look. She said the lace overlay covers a lightweight silky satin that isn’t fitted, more of a sheath.

For brides, white is out, ivory, light gold or champagne and blush are in. Belts and accessories such as rhinestone or flowers accent the gowns that range in price from $1,200 to $3,000.

“We only buy from designers that fit in that price range,” said Harvey, adding the designers she uses like Allure and Love Marley win awards every year.

For the budget-conscious bride, Harvey said she does carry a few gowns in a lower price point and will try to work with a bride’s budget. However, she also has a salon dedicated to lower prices she calls Tie the Knot, a bridal retail store that stocks never-before-worn or gently worn designer gowns that range in price from $99 to $600.

Mothers of the bride and groom can relax in black, which is a big color this year, followed by silver, charcoal, gold and champagne. “Pant suits are in, but not a plain pant suit, something with bling,” she said.

Bridesmaids dresses are also full of bling this year, she said, and are fully sequined or beaded. They are still flowing and strapless with lace, but in the past several years, Harvey said dresses are back to being long again.

“Popular colors for summer include blush, champagne and mint, which is huge right now,” she said. Most of the spring

and summer colors are also moving into fall, but a good color for autumn, she said, is eggplant.

Harvey also carries a line of flower girl dresses by an Austin designer, Rosebuds. com.

“She designs and makes everything in stock,” Harvey said. “Rosebuds.com always has new dresses coming out.”

If the bride isn’t wearing cowgirl boots, she is wearing heels. “Satin is still popular,” Harvey said, but they usually come with toe bling. “Strappy shoes treated with rhinestones or beads are in now as well.”

For bridesmaids, colored shoes still play a part, but she said they are not trending right now. “They wear a nude color or silver occasionally,” she said. “Some will dye their shoes, but they are usually always something strappy.”

Georgio’s Bridal requires brides to contact them anywhere from three to seven months out for smaller weddings, but one year out, she said, is always best, citing natural disasters such as the wildfires and Hurricane Katrina that caused some of her inventory to be splayed on the freeway en route to her shop in Waco.

“Get it ordered, come in, get alterations and you are ready for your portraits and wedding.”

Bridesmaids should order six to 12 weeks out, but Harvey said four to six months is ideal.

Customizing your gown Harvey said several designers allow you to customize, but only up to one or two minimal changes, such as adding straps to a strapless gown. “They are willing to adjust,” she said.

Georgio’s offers in-house alterations with an award-winning staff who will do all the priming and handwork. “We have two seamstresses all day long,” she said.

Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

Georgio’s offers gowns in sizes from 0 to 30, but typically keeps sizes 4 to 16 in stock, and some size 18s.

“We try to keep 10 lots per size in different silhouettes for that size. A bride may not know what looks good on her.”

Be prepared to leave a 50 percent deposit on gowns. This deposit includes storage up to the wedding day, two pressings (one for your portrait and one before the wedding), a spot clean if needed and a full bridal bag.

A deposit gets the gown ordered. Once it comes in for alterations, the balance is due. When the alterations are complete, you can take the dress out for your portrait and then bring it back for storage until the wedding.

And don’t worry if you gain or lose a few pounds for the big day. Harvey said alterations are not a problem. If necessary, her staff can do a 24-hour emergency alteration.

Georgio’s Bridal Salon 921 Lake Air Drive, Waco 254-772-0265 | georgiosbridalsalon.com

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JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

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Bridal Showcase

door prizes

31st Salon & Spa...................................................................60-Minute Swedish Massage Advanced Chiropractic........................................................ Chiropractic Cervical Pillow Blanek’s Custom Catering............................................. Complimentary 10-12 lb Brisket Brenda Lanig PhotoArt..........................$100 off any Wedding Package booked for 2016 OR Free 11x14 Canvas Wrap Camp Gladiator.............................................................Complimentary 4 week camp for Bride & Bridesmaids Cinderella Couture....................................$100 Gift Certificate towards $500 Purchase Cinderella Films............................................................................... 15% off Any Package Expressions Hair & Nail Salon................................................................Salon Gift Card Forest Trail Dental Care............................. Sonicare DiamondClean Sonic Toothbrush Georgio’s Bridal.................................................................. Wedding Gown Preservation Great Clips......................................................................................................Formal Style Harris Community Center..............Complimentary Kitchen Rental with Room Rental Hilton Garden Inn.................................Complimentary Weekend Night Stay for 2 with Romance Package Knob Creek Chapel & Reception Hall.................................... $250 toward Hall Rental Main Street Bridal.....................................$250 Gift Certificate towards $1000 Purchase Paperdoodles............................................... William Arthur & Vera Wang boxed Thank You Notes Rustic Acres Event Center...............................................Complimentary Sunday Rental Unity Church of Temple.....................................................................$100 Salon Package White Garden Events at Markward Manor...........................$250 off Wedding or Event booked before June 2016

show schedule

Diamond Dig (must register by 1:45pm)................2 p.m.

Main Street Bridal runway show........................3:30 p.m.

Georgio’s Bridal & Prom runway show..................4 p.m.

ADVERTISER & EVENT VENDOR INDEX 31st Salon Spa...................................... 26

Frank W Mayborn Center................... 63

*Bear Creek............................................ 5

Gary’s at the Manor............................. 25

*Central Texas Home Builders............ 45

Georgios Bridal.....................................11

*Gretchen Williams............................. 56

Great Clips/LOCAL........................... 63

*Hilton Garden Inn-Killeen................ 54

H.B. Sheppard Cen-Tex Properties...... 29

*Lastovica Jewelers................................. 8

Hilton Garden Inn-Temple.................... 7

*Lois Ferguson..................................... 28

Inn At Salado........................................16

*Merle Norman.................................... 65

Karla McNeill Events........................... 45

*Pagel & Sons Jewelers........................ 54

Keepsake Imagery, L.L.C..................... 56

*Painting with a Twist.......................... 66

Keller Williams/Mick McCanlies.........16

*Railroad & Heritage Museum........... 26

Killeen Civic & Conference Center.... 25

*Saxon’s Men Wear............................. 22

Knob Creek Chapel & Reception....... 54

*Schoepfs BBQ...................................... 8

La Rio Mansion..................................... 7

*Sew Beautiful by Evelyn..................... 28

Liberty Mutual Insurance/Kahle......... 25

*Shoppes on Main................................16

Lily’s Cakes.......................................... 28

*Stillhouse Wine Room....................... 25

Main Street Bridal................................ 44

*Sweet Eats .......................................... 65

Marriott Residence Inn,Temple.......... 28

*Teri’s Travels....................................... 29

Megatravel............................................ 65

*Texas BBQ Grill................................. 65

Men’s Wearhouse/Special Events......... 7

*Texas Partners/Chandler................... 68

Paperdoodles........................................ 63

*Texell Credit Union............................. 2

Posh Events...........................................11

A Splash of Class................................. 54

Precious Memories............................... 29

Advanced Chiropractic........................ 56

Rustic Acres Event Center..................... 8

Al’s Formal Wear................................... 5

Sassy D Boutique................................. 25

Be.YOU.tiful Salon...............................16

Scentsy/Terry Gillaspie.........................18

Blanek’s Custom Catering..................... 7

Scott Darling Photography.................... 7

Brenda Lanig Photography.................. 45

Simply Sweet........................................ 45

Broken Spoke Entertainment.............. 58

Squires Formalwear.............................. 64

Camp Gladiator................................... 58

TCP Catering........................................18

Cathedral Oaks.................................... 56

The Gin at Nolan Creek Steakhouse.. 29

Celebrity China & Crystal.................. 54

The Venue.............................................. 7

Cinderella Couture Bridals................. 58

Tie the Knot........................................... 8

Cinderella Films...................................19

Unity Church of Temple..................... 56

City of Belton.......................................19

Vintage Villas....................................... 26

Classic Catering................................... 58

Weber’s Sporting Goods...................... 29

Confetti Rentals..................................... 5

White Garden Events.......................... 29

Creative Innovations............................ 45

Woods Flowers..................................... 65

David’s Bridal, Inc................................. 5

Ye Olde English Bakery....................... 64

Dillard’s Temple Mall.......................... 58

Youphoria Day Spa.............................. 65

Estacia’s................................................ 26 Expressions Hair & Nails.................... 58 Forest Trail Dental................................16

*Will not be present at the Bridal Showcase

The Advertisers Index is published for reader convenience. Every effort is made to list information correctly. The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.

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JULY 2015 | Tex Appeal Brides

254.317.8418 posheventsco.com

254.613.5191

254.939.7499 beltonbeyoutifulsalon.com

Creative Innovations flowers

studiowdesign.com

254.214.4116 bearcreekwed.com

254.760.2620 creativeinnovationsweddings.com

254.319.3555 lilyscakes.com

254.541.7238 fascinobeauty.com

254.699.1300 confettirentals.net

Thank you to these talented businesses for their time and efforts in making the

wedding day inspiration

photo shoot a beautiful success.

Another Important Date.

On August 6 only, when you get a personal loan for up to $5000, we’ll discount your APR* by 1%.

With Texas Partners, your wedding day or honeymoon can be extra special.

TexasPartners.com

*Annual Percentage Rate. Loan rates vary and are based on credit score and term of loan. Offer not valid on secured loans. Offer available to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Bell, Coryell, or Lampasas County or current TXPFCU members and their families. Other personal loan products and amounts are available.