NOW Weddings Magazine Winter 2023

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Winter

2023

LET US STAY WITH

The day you’ve always dreamed of is our pleasure.

YOU. ®

To plan the wedding you have always imagined, contact the Catering Team at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans at (504) 670-2871 or visit ritzcarlton.com/neworleans © 2022 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

WINTER 2023 EDITORIAL 9

Winter Delight Winter wedding inspiration at Fort Condé Inn

49 Marry & Bright Christmas wedding fashion and decor featuring Santa & Mrs. Claus

REAL WEDDINGS 28

Elizabeth Beck Roney + Ryan Paterson Zarzour

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Taylor Wood + Jared Rome

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Evelyn Rohrbough + Race Cannedy

ARTICLES 26 Your Guest List Tips for deciding who makes the list 56 Southern Elegance Advice for planning a Southern Winter Wedding

FINE DINING SPOTLIGHT 34

Bistro Saint Emanuel

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PHOTO CREDIT: Rae Leytham Photography from the Real Wedding Feature of Elizabeth Beck Roney + Ryan Paterson Zarzour GOWN: Rita Vinieris, I Do Bridal Couture (Covington, LA) | MAKEUP: James Edward | HAIR: Jason Chambers | FLORIST: Tyler Matthews Creations

PUBLISHER

JESSICA BURKE JESSICA@THENOWBRIDE.COM

nowweddingsmagazine.com

Dayna Dufrene LOUISIANNA DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Stefani Horn ALABAMA DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Haleigh Barlow MISSISSIPPI DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Winter

2023

FOR ENGAGED COUPLES Our blog is filled with tons of great resources, inspiration, wedding stories and photo editorials that will help you plan an amazing wedding.

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NOW Weddings Magazine Phone: 504-832-2775 Email: sales@thenowbride.com www.NOWWeddingsMagazine.com NOW Weddings Magazine is published quarterly by New Orleans Weddings Magazine, Inc. Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

NOW Weddings Magazine is a registered trademark of NOWM, Inc. The use of the trademark is strictly prohibited. The information in this publication is believed to be accurate. However, NOW Weddings Magazine cannot and does not guarantee its accuracy. NOW Weddings Magazine cannot and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by advertisers or any other portion of this publication

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About The Cover STYLING: Sarah Alleman PHOTOGRAPHY: Stefani Marie Photography ON LOCATION Fort Condé Inn, Mobile, AL

FLORALS The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design GOWN + TUXEDO I Do Bridal & Formal HAIR + MAKEUP: Alexis Ruby Artistry Collective MODELS: Ashley + Jordan Mitchell

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INVITES YOU TO

bridal show PRESENTED BY

APRIL

SUNDAY

7

2-5PM

2024 THE BATTLE HOUSE HOTEL & SPA MOBILE 26 NORTH ROYAL STREET, MOBILE, AL

THENOWWEDDINGEVENT.COM

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WINTER de light

A FASHION + DECOR EDITORIAL AT FORT CONDÉ INN Sarah Alleman Photography

MOBILE, ALABAMA

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details

The elegant wedding invitation suite by Betty Lu Paperie features superb details including custom envelope liners and wax seals that capture the luxurious floral inspiration for the editorial, silk ribbon, and vintage postage.

Sarah Alleman Photography 10 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

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Stefani Marie Photography 12 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

details Ashley is wearing an ethereal and romantic, off-the-shoulder sheer gown with delicate 3D floral lace accented with subtle beading and pearl details. The gown, available at I Do Bridal & Formal, features blouson sleeves and a strapless, sweetheart bodice with a subtle plunging neckline. The skirt opens at the thigh for a high skirt split.

Ashley’s makeup and hair by Alexis Ruby Artistry Collective is the epitome of natural glam with her hair falling gracefully in Hollywood waves and her makeup enhancing her natural beauty.

Sarah Alleman Photography

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Stefani Marie Photography 14 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

Sarah Alleman Photography

details

(above) Ashley carries a hand-tied bouquet of ivory, blush and burgundy blooms

by Glen Jenkins of The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design. (left) For the ceremony backdrop in Fort Condé Inn’s courtyard, Jenkins created lush, low floral arrangements that create a garden-like setting for the couple to share their vows. (both) Our groom, Jordan, is wearing the Heather Grey Clayton suit by Allure Men, available at I Do Bridal & Formal. This suit features ultra slim styling with a self-framed notch lapel jacket with double besom pockets.

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For the reception look, Jordan is wearing an elegant Navy Sterling Slim Fit Wedding Suit by Michael Kors, available at I Do Bridal & Formal.

Ashley is wearing a fashion-forward, yet timeless lace high-neck wedding dress from I Do Bridal & Formal. The gown features a wide open keyhole back, ornate train, tattoo-lace long sleeves and side cutouts that contour the figure.

To complement the gown, Alexis Ruby Artistry Collective transformed her hair and makeup, opting for an elegant updo with wispy curls framing her face and a more dramatic eye and a pop of pink on her lips.

Photos this page: Sarah Alleman Photography 16 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

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about the cake

This 3-tier confection by The Bakehouse features lines from Pablo Neruda’s poem “I Love You Without Knowing How” on the middle tier.

The cake is displayed on a round gold floral cake stand from Gulf Coast Events & Rentals in the parlor of Fort Condé Inn’s Hall-Ford House in front of the marble fireplace covered with lush florals by The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design. The cake table is draped with Gulf Coast Events & Rentals Sand Louvre Linen and surrounded with florals repurposed from the ceremony setting.

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Photos both pages: Sarah Alleman Photography

details

It’s so important to take time as newlyweds to have a moment just for the two of you.

A private dinner is the perfect opportunity.

For this sweetheart table, Glen Jenkins with The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design created a beautiful centerpiece with fresh fruit and tea lights nestled underneath.

A mauve velvet linen from Gulf Coast Events & Rentals graces the table and their Oak Louis Chairs provide seating for the newlyweds.

On the table, also from Gulf Coast Events & Rentals, are glass chargers with gold rims and their Gold Rim Collection plates. Glasses from their Modern collection, Vintage Gold Silverware and gold napkins grace each place. Menus by Betty Lu Paperie match the stationery suite tying the theme together.

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Photos both pages: Sarah Alleman Photography

about the venue

Nestled within the enchanting embrace of Fort Conde Village, where the stars once gracefully descended upon Alabama, the Fort Condé Inn stands as a testament to centuries of history and Southern charm. Nine distinct historic properties, each dating back to the early 19th century, create a singular masterpiece of hospitality.

As you step onto the grounds of the Fort Condé Inn, you are transported to a bygone era, where time seems to stand still, and the echoes of history whisper through the air. This one-of-a-kind historic hotel invites you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the past while indulging in the epitome of modern luxury.

Beyond the charming facades, the Inn boasts a commitment to the highest standards of luxury.

Immerse yourself in the sumptuous spaces, where every detail has been thoughtfully curated to ensure an event that transcends the ordinary.

about the car

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Ashley and Jordan make their exit in A Bride’s Ride’s 1958 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible. This car is a masterpiece of design, engineering, and styling featuring an Olympic White exterior with a black and white leather interior. Its iconic rear fins and elegant grille are spectacular in photos!

Sarah Alleman Photography

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credits CREATIVE DIRECTION Sarah Alleman PHOTOGRAPHY Sarah Alleman Photography sarahallemanphotography.com + Stefani Marie Photography stefanimarie.com ON LOCATION Fort Condé Inn fortcondeinn.com FLORALS The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design theshadetreefloralevents.com GOWNS + TUXEDOS I Do Bridal & Formal idobridalformal.com HAIR + MAKEUP Alexis Ruby Artistry Collective alexisrubyartistry.com WEDDING CAKE The Bakehouse facebook.com/thebakehouse251 INVITATIONS Betty Lu Paperie bettylupaperie.com RENTALS Gulf Coast Events & Rentals gcrent.com VINTAGE CAR A Bride’s Ride abridesride.com MODELS Ashley Mitchell + Jordan Mitchell JEA Model Management 22 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

Photo Credit: Guest Photographer Alex Ishee Photography

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Your Guest List MANY COUPLES STRUGGLE WITH HOW TO narrow down their guest list and may find themselves feeling obligated and overwhelmed by people who expect to be invited. Below are our top tips on how to decide who makes the guest list.

Image Credit: Stefani Marie Photography

1.

2.

3.

4.

Start to categorize potential guests by the inner group of “not a doubt in your mind they must be invited and will attend” and then work your way out. Next would be people who are an important part of your life and will continue to be. Finally, categorize people who would be nice to invite and have present but who aren’t playing a huge role in your life currently. This might be coworkers, old high school friends or even your boss. Don’t feel obligated to invite everyone you know. This is about you and once you categorize people into those groups, it will help you see what your priorities are and how many of the last group you can realistically invite once your “must haves” are taken into account.

Decide on a child policy. Depending on your situation, it may not be an option for you, but if it is possible to have an adult-only reception, this will definitely help with your guest count numbers. If you are trying to cut down the guest list due to cost rather than number of people present, make sure to ask your caterer if they offer a child’s plate or a lower price for children under a specific age.

Be sure to ask about pricing for children’s beverage packages as well!

If you are paying for the wedding yourself, consider giving your parents a set number of people they can invite so it doesn’t spiral out of control (i.e., inviting work colleagues you’ve never met or third cousins you haven’t seen in 20 years). Do keep in mind though, if parents are contributing financially, they’ll likely want to have some say in the guest list.

If you are still struggling to get your guest count to the number you need, consider adding in criteria such as “only people you’ve had a meaningful relationship within the last year”. Whatever factors you think work for your group, this will ensure that you’re fair to both you and your partner’s guest lists while still being able to narrow things down.

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The Court of Two Sisters 613 Royal Street in the French Quarter courtoftwosisters.com @courtoftwosisters

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Winter

2023

CLICK HERE TO ORDER

ELIZABETH + RYAN’S STORY “We met at a mutual friend’s wedding in Mobile,” shares Elizabeth. “I was living in Dallas at the time so a few weeks later when I was visiting family in Mobile we went on a date and hit it off.”

The couple officially started dating in November of 2021. Five months later while on a walk in the park with their dog Boo, Ryan proposed.

“Ryan let {Boo} off the leash in Washington Square Park and I turned around to ask him why he did that and he was on one knee,” shares Elizabeth. “We always went on walks together when I was visiting from Dallas so this was a special spot for us and we both love being outside.”

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NOW

real wedding

Elizabeth Beck Roney & Ryan Paterson Zarzour

A WALK IN THE PARK DECEMBER 17, 2022 | MOBILE, AL PHOTOGRAPHY BY RAE LEYTHAM PHOTOGRAPHY

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THE WEDDING Elizabeth and Ryan included many special details in their wedding day.

Elizabeth wore a pearl bracelet that her father gave her mother when she was born, and her cousin’s veil that had lace from the dress her mother and aunt wore on their wedding day. She says, “It was even more special because my great grandmother had hand sewn the pearls on the lace.”

Ryan wore his father’s cufflinks which were very special to him.

The couple married at St. Joseph Chapel in Mobile. “This church was extremely special because Ryan said it was the first place he saw me the night before we met,” shares Elizabeth. Father Neske, who was a celebrant at Elizabeth’s parents’ wedding officiated the ceremony.

“Our reception was at our previous home,The Antoinette), and we chose this location because we knew we wanted an outdoor reception,” says Elizabeth. “...this was the perfect spot and something different.”

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See more from Elizabeth & Ryan’s wedding at: NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

NOW

FEATURED VENDOR PHOTOGRAPHY RAE LEYTHAM PHOTOGRAPHY raeleytham.com ADDITIONAL VENDOR CREDITS: GETTING READY LOCATIONS: Bride’s Parents’ Home + Country Club of Mobile | CEREMONY LOCATION: St. Joseph Chapel | OFFICIANT: Father Neske | RECEPTION LOCATION: The Antoinette | REHEARSAL DINNER: Country Club of Mobile | BRIDE’S GOWN: Rita Vinieris, I Do Bridal Couture (Covington, LA) | BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS: Amsale, Bella Bridesmaids (Mobile, AL) | FLORIST + CANDLE DECOR: Tyler Matthews Creations | BAKERY: Publix | RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: 1 More Song | TRANSPORTATION: Old Shell Trolley | MAKEUP: James Edward | HAIR: Jason Chambers (bride) + Adelaide McAleer (bridemaids) | WEDDING PLANNER/ DESIGNER: Blair Gewin | DECOR: Port City Rentals | LIGHTING: Snider Brothers | CATERER: Morrissette & Co | JEWELER: Gold Art + Keith Miller | INVITATIONS: It’s Inviting

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YOUR LOVE. OUR PASSION. MAKE YOURS AN EVEN MORE REWARDING WEDDING IN THE FRENCH QUARTER

LEARN MORE Scott Myers Photography

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FINE DINING SPOTLIGHT

BISTRO SAINT EMANUEL JORDAN GARCIA EXECUTIVE CHEF

Photography: Stefani Marie Photography | Florals: The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design Flatware: Gulf Coast Events & Rentals

Step into a culinary time capsule at Bistro Saint Emanuel, where the essence of Mobile’s French colonial history merges seamlessly with the rich culinary tapestry of the Gulf Coast region. Nestled in the heart historic Fort Condé Village in Mobile, Alabama, this gastronomic haven traces its roots back to the 1850s when Charles Antomarchi, a visionary Corsican immigrant, opened the original bar and restaurant on the property.

As you step through the doors, prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transcends time.

We now invite you to explore the decadent Southern Winter wedding menu crafted by Chef Garcia in the following pages. Bon Apetit!

Fast forward 2023, the restaurant is now under the direction of Executive Chef Jordan Garcia who has crafted a menu honoring Antomarchi’s legacy while infusing a modern, Southern flair.

BISTRO SAINT EMANUEL 200 St Emanuel St, Mobile, AL 36602 251-405-5040 | @bistrosaintemanuel fortcondeinn.com/bistrosaintemanuel

The interior of the restaurant is a stunning nod to the Art Nouveau period, a meticulous restoration that transports diners to the turn of the last century. A carefully imagined update from its 1850s origins, the restaurant’s ambiance is a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern sophistication.

Brunch served Monday through Thursday from 7:00am to 10:00 am and Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 8:00am - 2:00pm Dinner served six days a week (closed Tuesdays); from 5:00pm to 9:00pm. 5:00pm to 10:00pm on Friday & Saturday.

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APPETIZER

Beat Cappelletti with Butternut Squash and Crab filling garnished with a Basil Oil and Roasted Red Pepper Puree paired with Booker “My Favorite Neighbor” (Napa Valley)

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(this page) Conecuh Consomme with Root Vegetables and Duck (top right) Holiday Caprese paired with a Negroni (Hendrick’s Gin, Vermouth Rosso, and Campari) (bottom right) Braised Pork Belly with Cranberry Coulis and fried Sage

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details

Crown of Pork accompanied

by Stewed Apples and Collard Greens 38 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

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TAYLOR + JARED’S STORY “Jared and I have known each other since we were in high school,” shares Taylor. Although the two went to different schools, they managed to get each other’s phone numbers and started texting.

“However, we eventually stopped texting,” says Taylor.

“We didn’t talk for years until we finally met in person.

We both happened to be at a get together with mutual friends. After that day, we spent every day together.”

The couple haven’t been apart since.

Jared proposed during a photo shoot with ADL Creative Portraits. “I won a free photo shoot by entering a contest on Instagram,” says Taylor. “It was originally supposed to be just me but, I had been wanting couples photos of Jared and I since we had never had them taken before.”

Seizing the opportunity, Jared contacted ADL and told the owner, Arianna, his plan to propose during the photo shoot. “They both orchestrated the entire thing,” says Taylor.

“Jared proposed to me while Arianna was taking our picture and I was completely shocked,” she says. “I had no idea he was going to do it. It will forever be one of my most cherished memories.”

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NOW

real wedding

Taylor Wood & Jared Rome

PICTURE PERFECT NOVEMBER 6, 2021 | PICAYUNE, MS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADL CREATIVE PORTRAITS

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THE WEDDING Taylor and Jared said “I do” on a

beautiful November afternoon. They exchanged vows on the Garden Lawn of The Henry Smith House with Taylor’s grandfather, Leroy McElveen, officiating. “He has always been one of the most wise and kind human beings I have ever met,” shares Taylor. “Jared and I knew there was no one else we would want to ask to do the job.”

A reception followed under the property’s covered pavilion. The couple danced the night away with their closest family and friends. “It meant so much to both of us that everyone we love showed up to celebrate with us,” says Taylor.

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See more from Taylor & Jared’s wedding at: NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

VENDOR CREDITS: VENUE + CATERING: The Henry Smith House | OFFICIANT: Leroy McElveen | BRIDE’S GOWN: Tarik Ediz | BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS: Bella Bridesmaids (Mandeville, LA) | MENSWEAR: Men’s Wearhouse | PHOTOGRAPHY: ADL Creative Portraits | VIDEO: Shannah O’Quin Photography | FLORIST: Busy Bee Floral Design | BAKERY: KATYCAKE & Co. | ENTERTAINMENT: DJ G-Mac | HAIR + MAKEUP: Cassidy Robert + Gage Knight | HONEYMOON TRAVEL: Sharpe Travel | JEWELER: Tyler Ross Jewelers

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Marry & BRIGHT A CHRISTMAS-INSPIRED PHOTO EDITORIAL>>>

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details

Betty Lu Paperie created the perfect Christmas wedding invitation suite!

From the red and green envelopes, to the Christmas plaid envelope liner, to the vintage holiday stamps, every detail is perfection.

(right) Ashley is wearing a glitter and pearl tulle gown with an illusion bodice, visible boning, off-the-shoulder straps, cross over back detail and a sweetheart neckline, available at I Do Bridal & Formal. She is carrying a bouquet of pavé red roses by The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design.

For this sweet Christmas wedding look, Alexis Ruby Artistry Collective styled Ashley’s hair in a glam bridal pony and added a pop of Christmas Red on her lips!

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details

It’s any Christmas-lover’s dream come true - Santa Claus officiating your wedding ceremony! Santa Barganier officiated the ceremony and Mrs. Claus joined in the fun!

For Jordan, a classic black Michael Kors Legacy Ultra Slim Fit Tuxedo, available at I Do Bridal & Formal, was the perfect look. A red rose boutonnière by The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design complements his red pocket square.

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This is the sweetest of sweetheart tables on the front porch of Fort Condé Inn. The table is draped in Seamist linen from Gulf Coast Events & Rentals with a pearl tulle overlay added to echo the bride’s dress. White-Wash Crossback Chairs capture the rustic, yet elegant vibe.

A pavé of red roses by The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design graces the center of the table. Red napkins echo the red roses and each place is set with a glass charger with silver ripples, white dinner plate and beaded glass salad plate.

Betty Lu Paperie created menus matching the invitation suite.

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Cupcakes are a great holiday wedding cake alternative. These cupcakes by The Bakehouse are decorated with rosemary sprigs and pomegranate seeds for a festive holiday flair. They sit atop a silver floral cake stand from Gulf Coast Events & Rentals. Red and green floral accents and votives from The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design decorate the cake table that is draped in green velvet linen from Gulf Coast Events & Rentals.

credits

CREATIVE DIRECTION + PHOTOGRAPHY Sarah Alleman Photography sarahallemanphotography.com ON LOCATION Fort Condé Inn fortcondeinn.com FLORALS The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design theshadetreefloralevents.com GOWN + TUXEDO I Do Bridal & Formal idobridalformal.com HAIR + MAKEUP Alexis Ruby Artistry Collective alexisrubyartistry.com CUPCAKES The Bakehouse facebook.com/thebakehouse251 INVITATIONS Betty Lu Paperie bettylupaperie.com RENTALS Gulf Coast Events & Rentals gcrent.com SANTA + MRS. CLAUS Santa Barganier facebook.com/santa.barganier MODELS Ashley Mitchell + Jordan Mitchell JEA Model Management

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PHOTO: Rae Leytham Photography | WEDDING PLANNER: Jeanne Hunt and Brooke Guesnard from Events Detailed | FLORALS: Wildflowers Floral Design | St. James Episcopal Church Fairhope, AL

Southern Elegance PLANNING YOUR DREAM WINTER WEDDING

THE SOUTHERN UNITED STATES IS KNOWN FOR its warm hospitality, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, making it an enchanting destination for weddings year-round. While summer weddings are popular, there’s something genuinely magical about saying “I do” during the winter months on the Gulf Coast.

In this guide, we’ll explore the charm of winter weddings in the South and provide valuable tips and theme ideas to plan your unforgettable celebration.

EMBRACING THE SOUTHERN WINTER We often talk about making an impact with your wedding The Southern winters bring a unique blend of 56 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

(usually) mild temperatures, stunning sunsets, and the opportunity to incorporate the region’s natural beauty into your wedding day. Let’s begin by exploring the best practices for navigating the Southern winter weather.

Embrace the Soft Winter Light

One zf the advantages of a winter wedding in the South is the soft, golden-hued sunlight that bathes the region.

Make the most of this enchanting lighting for your wedding photos by: - Scheduling your ceremony or outdoor photoshoot during the late afternoon, when the light is at its most flattering. continued>>>

- Utilizing warm lighting in your decor to complement the natural ambiance.

SOUTHERN WINTER WEDDING THEMES

- Choosing a venue with large windows or outdoor areas to capitalize on the natural light.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of Southern winter weather, let’s explore some captivating themes to consider for your wedding.

Be Prepared for Weather Fluctuations

Southern Elegance with a Hint of the Holidays

Winter in the South can be unpredictable. While it’s generally milder than other parts of the country, you should still plan for some temperature variation. Daytime temperatures can range from the 50s to the 70s, while evenings may dip into the 30s or 40s. Here’s how to be prepared: Dress accordingly: Opt for wedding attire that allows for layering, such as a wedding dress with a removable shawl or a groom’s suit with a stylish overcoat.

Heated venues: Choose a wedding venue with heating options, especially for outdoor or open-air events.

Weather-appropriate footwear: Consider closed-toe shoes or boots for comfort and warmth, particularly if your ceremony or reception is outdoors.

Blankets and hand warmers: Provide your guests cozy blankets and hand warmers to keep them comfortable during outdoor ceremonies.

Embrace the charm of the holiday season with a Southern touch. A Southern holiday-themed wedding blends traditional elegance with festive cheer. Incorporate elements such as:

Classic red and green color palette with gold accents.

String lights, wreaths, and garlands for a festive atmosphere.

A Christmas tree adorned with personalized ornaments as a guestbook alternative.

Seasonal cocktails, like spiked eggnog and mulled wine.

A grand exit with a shower of biodegradable snow confetti. continued>>>

PHOTO: Stefani Marie Photography

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PHOTO: Rae Leytham Photography | WEDDING PLANNER: Jeanne Hunt and Brooke Guesnard from Events Detailed | FLORALS: Wildflowers Floral Design | The Grand Hotel, Point Clear, AL | WEDDING CAKE: Pollman’s Bakery | RENTALS: Port City Rentals | LIGHTING: Dorsett Productions Unlimited | STAGING: Sterling Event Design

Vintage Southern Charm

For a wedding that harks back to a bygone era, consider a Vintage Southern Charm theme. This theme oozes nostalgia and combines old-world Southern elegance with a touch of rustic charm. Elements to include are: - Antique furniture and decor, like vintage chandeliers, lace tablecloths, and mismatched china.

- A muted color palette of pastels, with shades of blush, mint, and ivory.

- Incorporate Southern traditions like sweet tea stations and biscuits served with honey and jam.

- Vintage-inspired bridal and groom attire with lace, pearls, and classic bow ties.

Rustic and Cozy

If you’re a fan of the rural South and its rustic beauty, a Rustic and Cozy theme may be the perfect choice.

Embrace the warmth and comfort of Southern hospitality with these ideas: - Wooden decor and details, like farm tables, wooden signage, and lantern centerpieces.

- A rich and earthy color palette with shades of deep burgundy, mustard, and hunter green.

- Comfort food menu featuring Southern classics like 58 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

fried chicken, mac ‘n’ cheese, and buttermilk biscuits.

- Cozy elements include plaid blankets, fire pits, and marshmallow roasting stations.

SOUTHERN WINTER WEDDING VENUES Choosing the right venue is essential to bringing your Southern winter wedding vision to life. Here are some unique venues that capture the essence of the Gulf Coast:

Historic Homes

Historic homes evoke a sense of timeless elegance and charm. Their sprawling grounds, grand architecture, and majestic oak-lined driveways create the perfect backdrop for a romantic winter wedding. Look for venues that offer both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Historic Churches + Synagogues

If you’re seeking a more traditional Southern wedding, consider hosting your ceremony in a historic church or synagogue. These venues often feature beautiful stained glass windows, wooden pews, and intricate architectural details that add to the overall ambiance of your special day.

Rustic Barns and Vineyards

Rustic venues, such as barns and vineyards, provide a cozy and charming setting for a Rustic and Cozy wedding theme. These venues often come with scenic views and the flexibility to create a warm, intimate atmosphere. continued>>>

SOUTHERN WINTER WEDDING DETAILS

PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS

Incorporating Southern elements into your wedding details can elevate your celebration and make it unique.

Here are some ideas to consider:

Before planning your winter wedding, consider these essential tips to ensure a seamless and unforgettable day.

Southern Cuisine

Timing is Everything

The South is renowned for its delectable cuisine, and a winter wedding is an excellent opportunity to showcase these culinary delights. Include Southern classics like shrimp and grits, pecan pie, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes in your menu.

Bourbon and Whiskey Bar

Set up a bourbon and whiskey bar to honor the Southern tradition of sipping these fine spirits. You can feature a selection of local Southern brands and create a signature cocktail with a regional twist.

Winter in the South is a busy season for weddings, so book your vendors well in advance. This includes photographers, venues, and caterers. Early planning will help you secure your preferred date and location.

Climate Control

Given the mild but unpredictable Southern winter weather, ensure your venue offers climate control options. You don’t want your guests to be too cold or hot, so be prepared with heating and cooling solutions.

The blend of Southern elegance, cultural charm, and natural beauty will make your Southern Winter Incorporate live music into your wedding to capture wedding a dream come true. Whether you opt for a the essence of Southern culture. A live band playing country, blues, or jazz can set the perfect tone for your holiday-themed wedding, Vintage Southern Charm, or Rustic and Cozy celebration, the Gulf Coast celebration. offers a breathtaking canvas for your winter nuptials.

Embrace the Southern hospitality, and let the mild Southern Floral Accents Choose flowers that reflect the beauty of the South, such winter weather and enchanting landscapes enhance as magnolias and camellias. These elegant blooms can your special day.

Live Music

be used in bouquets, centerpieces, and boutonnieres.

For more Winter Weddng Inspiration, visit: NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

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EVELYN + RACE’S STORY Evelyn and Race met at a country dance club, Little Bit of Texas, the night before Race commissioned into the US Air Force. Evelyn asked Race if he’d like to dance to “Tennessee Whiskey. “In that moment we both knew this was forever and our love story began,” the newlyweds share. The next day after Race commissioned, he took Evelyn out to lunch and then to a duck pond.

After asking her father for her hand in marriage,Race proposed to Evelyn on the grounds of Lenaire, a home on the Mandeville Lakefront that has been in Evelyn’s family for 100 years.

With the first song they danced to, “Tennessee Whiskey” playing, the couple danced. Race spun Evelyn around and then got down on one knee. He said “Evelyn, would you please make me the happiest man alive and be my wife?” She said, “Yes!”

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Evelyn Rohrbough & Race Cannedy

SMOOTH AS TENNESSEE WHISKEY NOVEMBER 12, 2022 | MANDEVILLE, LA PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH ALLEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

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THE WEDDING Evelyn and Race said their vows as the sunset with Lake Pontchartrain in the background in the front garden of Lenaire, the same place Race proposed. To honor her Great Grandparents, Claire and Leonard Rohrbough, for whom Lenaire is named, two chairs were set up in the front row where the couple placed their portraits along with hats and articles of clothing.

Since the wedding was held on Veterans Day weekend, Evelyn and Race encouraged their guests who were retired and active military to wear their formal uniforms. Race and several members of the wedding party also wore their uniforms for the wedding.

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed a cocktail hour followed by a reception under the house and in the front garden.

Evelyn and Race danced the night away and ended the evening with a confetti streamer and Arch of Light Sabers exit.

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