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VO L U M E 1 6 · I S S U E 2 EDITOR IN CHIEF Chris Christen chris.christen@owh.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR & DESIGNER Heidi Thorson hthorson@owh.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Marjie Ducey marjie.ducey@owh.com COPY EDITOR Shelley Larsen shelley.larsen@owh.com CONTRIBUTORS Kurt A. Keeler Kim Dyer Photography Christian Oth Studio Andrea Nuxoll Photography Lane Weddings Shell Creek Photography Sam Areman Photo Ness Thomas Photo Elayne Woods Photography Gleason Photography

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The Mullers Trin Jensen Photography Mae Small Photography Anna Kim Photography COVER PHOTO Christian Oth Studio ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Lauren Kruger lauren.kruger@owh.com ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES Gay Liddell gay.liddell@owh.com Emily Martin emily.martin@owh.com Michael Medrano michael.medrano@owh.com EVENTS Tam Webb tam.webb@owh.com Emily Gerhardt emily.gerhardt@owh.com

Wedding Essentials Magazine is a publication of the Omaha World-Herald. ©2018, Omaha World-Herald Co. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the specific written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed by those interviewed are their own. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information, no responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for content, opinions or practices, or how the information herein is used. All materials submitted, including but not limited to images, logos and text that appear, are assumed to be the original work of the provider, and the publisher is not responsible for unintentional copyright infringement.

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W E L C O M E N OT E

GLORIOUS DECISIONS It's happening! You're getting married! Now that planning is officially in progress, you're likely to be feeling excited, stressed and overwhelmed – all at once! The good news: This issue is packed with reasons to relax. Even better, we're available 24/7 with inspiration, exclusive insider tips, how-tos, reality checks, sisterly advice and more. You no doubt have a vision for your celebration. But have you assigned a price tag to that glorious plan? Before you consider a single decision, you need to know how much you can afford to spend. If money is the elephant in the room, check out our tips for broaching the subject and eliminating a ton of stress in the process (page 20). Speaking of elephants: Sound the trumpets! Real Weddings are a reader favorite, and this issue's collection is extraordinary. What heights would you go to pledge your love? Lindsay and Tom scaled a mountain (page 46).

Jena and Clayton's best memory? An elephant parade (page 80). Maybe you can relate to Gianna, who has a dilemma: She doesn't want to disappoint her father, but a big wedding isn't her dream. Leave it to a travel agent to find the perfect solution (page 94). As you're heading out on those venue tours, take us along! Use our Ring Around the City tour map to chart your course and study up on information you should be collecting at each and every stop (page 67). Save the date for one of our favorite events of the year, the Wedding Essentials Idea Show, Sunday, October 7. It's a chance to connect with and see the work of nearly 100 vendors who truly love what they do. In the meantime, find a cozy spot and pore over the inspiration at your fingertips. Wedding Essentials, after all, is your very own dream-day style guide. Happy decision-making! Chris Christen editor in chief

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THE WEDDING ESSENTIALS TEAM

CHRIS CHRISTEN editor in chief

HEIDI THORSON

SHELLEY LARSEN

creative director & designer

copy editor

MARJIE DUCEY

MICHAEL MEDRANO

assistant editor

account representative

LAUREN KRUGER

TAM WEBB

GAY LIDDELL

EMILY GERHARDT

advertising sales manager

account representative

EMILY MARTIN

account representative

event manager

event coordinator

ANDREA VIETH

advertising sales assistant

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O N T H E C OV E R

CHRISTIAN OTH STUDIO

real wedding · page 32

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PHOTOS (FROM LEFT): CHRISTIAN OTH STUDIO, SHELL CREEK PHOTOGRAPHY, ANDREA NUXOLL PHOTOGRAPHY

SPRING EDITION 2018

REAL COUPLES 32 wedding: adrienne & blake 46 wedding: lindsay & tom 76 engagement: heather & jeff 80 wedding: jena & clayton 88 wedding: alixandria & nicholas 100 wedding: brooklyn & brian STYLED SHOOTS 22 bold & bejeweled 38 at first blush 52 one fine day 60 boho bliss

TRENDS + ADVICE 20 dollars & sense 58 color speaks 74 finding your venue 78 wedding flowers 86 never worth the stress 94 destination tips & timeline 98 flower meanings FEATURED VENDORS 67 ring around the city 106 local vendor list

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A DV I C E

DOLLARS & SENSE 20 THINGS EVERY COUPLE SHOULD KNOW T E X T CHRIS CHRISTEN

BEFORE YOU DAYDREAM ANOTHER DAY, ANSWER ONE QUESTION: HOW'S EVERYTHING FITTING INTO YOUR BUDGET? On the "gotta know" chart, your budget ranks at the top, followed by your guest count and date. "No venue search can begin in earnest without knowing all three," says Carrie Dayton of Carrie Dayton Events & Consulting. "Finalizing the wedding budget is a task we begin to tackle from our very first client meeting," echoes Candace Kalasky of Lovestruck Events. "The budget affects every planning and design decision, and it's important for everyone to be on the same page." Five more insights from the pros: 1. Don't procrastinate when assembling your guest list. "It is the first task you need to complete when planning your wedding day," says Kalasky. "It is important to calculate your anticipated attendance count to ensure your floor plans and budget

are accurate. Anticipate an average guest attendance rate of 80 percent of your total invitation count. 2. Hire your partners wisely, Dayton says. "If you trust them, you won’t have a lot of wedding stress. If you're strapped for planning time, consider hiring a wedding coordinator to help with the details. At the very least, plan for a day-of-event coordinator." 3. If your parents are paying for all or part of the wedding, ask them to be specific about their contribution. A defined dollar amount and clear spending priorities are best for budgeting purposes and will help alleviate hurt feelings and misunderstandings as planning progresses. 4. Choose your wedding party wisely, especially if you have a large group of friends. "Your wedding party doesn't have to be a huge entourage," the Lovestruck team says. "Being a bridesmaid or groomsman is a big commitment, both financially and time-wise." 5. Remember that the day is about your love and commitment to each other. Focus on that and the rest will fall into place.

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IT'S ALL RELATIVE Budgeting is not as hard as it sounds, celebrity wedding planner Mindy Weiss assures couples in "The Mindy Weiss Wedding Book." Her guide for managing your money well: 1. Show restraint. A wedding shouldn't send you or your parents into debt. If you absolutely must borrow, don't take on more debt than you can pay off in a year. 2. Open a bank account for wedding expenditures and set up your budget in Excel or another spreadsheet program that will automatically add up columns for you. Be prepared for reality checks and make spending adjustments accordingly. 3. If you find yourself stalled on the question of who's paying for what, call or visit your own parents individually. Some parents prefer to contribute a fixed amount; some want to detail what they'll pay for. Others want to see estimates before they pledge or even decide what they can put toward the event. Some may not be able to help at all. And some will want to know what the other side is contributing before they commit. 4. If you're splitting expenses, consider this approach: The groom's family pays for flowers, liquor, music, photography and the rehearsal dinner. The bride's family pays for the rest. 5. Build a 10 percent cushion into your budget for expenses you overlooked or couldn't have foreseen.

WHILE WE'RE ON THE TOPIC OF MONEY ... Event planner Carrie Dayton shares five strategies to keep bills down: 1. Hold your wedding during a low-demand season such as January or February (the least expensive time of year to marry). Consider a Friday or Sunday or even a weekday. 2. Start the wedding earlier in the day. Celebrate with breakfast, brunch or lunch, which can cost less than a dinner. Bonus: Earlier in the day people drink less, lowering your liquor tab. 3. Skip the champagne toast and ask guests to toast with whatever they're drinking. Skip the tiered cake, too; serve sheet cake, cookies, cupcakes, a candy buffet or even frosted doughnuts. 4. Restrict the duration of the cocktail hour or limit the alcoholic offerings to house wine, beer, spirits and soda. BYOB is an option if the venue allows it, but make sure to hire a licensed bartender as a server and mixologist. 5. Tap the services of a wedding coordinator or an on-site planner. They can handle details and work with vendors leading up to the event, and also provide oversight the day of your wedding.

THE MULLERS

CATERING 101 A bit of catering etiquette gleaned from vendors at Wedding Essentials Bridal University earlier this year: 1. Shop for a caterer after you’ve chosen your reception site and are aware of the venue’s rules related to catering. It will help to have an idea of your catering needs: Plated meal, self-serve buffet, hors d’oeuvres bar only. 2. Plan to book your caterer six to nine months in advance of your wedding. Contact the top caterers on your list to check their availability and to confirm their ability to handle your event. If the answer is “yes,” then schedule a preliminary menu discussion. 3. Don’t expect to go through the tasting drill until after you and the caterer have determined the menu’s direction. And don’t expect the tasting to be free. For efficiency, some caterers offer group tastings on a regular basis. For around $15 per person, you and a guest can sample a wide array of select offerings on the catering menu. For a private tasting with more focused (fewer) offerings, you can

expect to pay around $25 per person. If you book, most caterers will comp the bride and groom’s tasting fee on the final invoice. 4. Consider your food service options carefully. Hors d’oeuvres aren’t necessarily your leastexpensive option. More often, they are your most expensive option because of the labor required to prepare 12 to 20 small bites per person. Passed hors d’oeuvres are a way to reduce portions and keep costs down. Interactive stations require additional staff to plate dishes to guests’ specifications. Even a family-style meal has special considerations, including rental of bowls, platters and other serving pieces for individual tables and additional staff to get food to the tables in a timely manner. A buffet can be quicker to serve but a plated meal usually is less expensive per guest. 5. Let your menu reflect you as a couple. Showcase your personalities and your love for food. Trending: Small plates; fresh, locally sourced ingredients, gluten-free and vegetarian selections.

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S T Y L E D S H O OT

BOLD BEJEWELED Remarkable decor in an upscale restaurant casts a beguiling spell and sweeps a styled shoot off its feet.

TEXT, STYLING & ART DIRECTION elegant events by kelley PHOTOGRAPHY kim dyer photography, heidi thorson VENUE monarch prime & bar at hotel deco VIDEOGRAPHY lacework films HAIR STYLIST grey rose studio MAKEUP ARTIST makeup by kristal CAKE cake creations omaha GOWN & ACCESSORIES ready or knot {wedding chic}, calla

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REAL WEDDING

adrienne & blake CHRISTIAN OTH STUDIO · APRIL 8, 2017 · JOSLYN ART MUSEUM

CHAPERONES INCLUDED They met on a blind date – dinner with their parents and their friends. They ended up sitting on opposite ends of the table, and Blake left without getting Adrienne’s number. “The whole process of how we met and started talking is pretty comical,’’ Adrienne says. “He had to ask his dad for my dad’s number, just to be able to contact me.’’ LAST-MINUTE PROPOSAL Blake had planned an elaborate night but moved it up because Adrienne’s parents were going to be in town. "It was a very sweet gesture, because he wanted both of our families to be there to celebrate our engagement,'' Adrienne says. Blake called Adrienne to say that he’d pick her up in 15 minutes. They drove downtown and took a walk in Heartland of America Park to see the fountain at sunset. Blake had arranged for a photographer to capture the picture-perfect moment. But it took awhile for the photographer to get set up. “Once Blake had the signal from the photographer, he dropped to one knee and proposed,’’ Adrienne says. “It was absolutely perfect.’’ NO WEATHER WORRIES Adrienne wanted a very elegant and romantic indoor wedding. That led the couple to Joslyn Art Museum for their reception. “The building is absolutely gorgeous.’’ OUTSIDE INSIDE The bride especially loved her first look at the Fountain Court, where dinner was held. “Our

florist used more than 3,800 fresh stems, which made the room look like a lush garden.’’ A string quartet played during the cocktail hour. The couple even served a specialty cocktail, "Railroad Romance." They both work for Union Pacific Railroad. TOUCHING MOMENT Adrienne’s dad walked her down the aisle and gave her hand to Blake. “The photographer captured the sweetest and most heartfelt look on my husband’s face. It will forever be one of my favorite photographs from the wedding,’’ she says. NO RUSH Adrienne made sure they left plenty of time for everything, including two hours for photographs. "Our photographer was able to take us to different locations and capture very memorable shots,'' she said. BEST GIFT Adrienne’s favorite was an original copy of “The Wedding Guest” from her brother, Travis. “Not only is it a gorgeous royal blue book, but it was such a sweet gesture,’’ she says. NEW HOME It’s been challenging to renovate their new home with their different schedules, but it hasn’t marred that honeymoon feeling. "We know how to make each other laugh.'' Blake says Adrienne is like a "bubbling brook, overflowing with life, charisma and energy." He loves the strong head on her shoulders. She says Blake is a shining example of the perfect husband. “He is constantly coming up with ways to surprise me or show that he loves me.’’

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essential details THE COUPLE ADRIENNE CAIN AND BLAKE JENSEN PHOTOGRAPHER CHRISTIAN OTH, CHRISTIAN OTH STUDIO WEDDING APRIL 8, 2017 REHEARSAL DINNER CRAVE AMERICAN KITCHEN & SUSHI BAR CEREMONY FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH RECEPTION JOSLYN ART MUSEUM BRIDAL GOWN INBAL DROR CUSTOM DESIGN, JOAN PILLOW BRIDAL SALON, HOUSTON ACCESSORIES JIMMY CHOO SHOES, JUDITH LEIBER PURSE, MARK EDWARD PRIVATE JEWELLER EARRINGS

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S T Y L E D S H O OT

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REAL WEDDING

lindsay & tom LANE WEDDINGS · OCTOBER 20, 2017 · SCOULAR BALLROOM

CALLING 911 The two went to school together for years but never connected until Tom was hired as an Omaha police officer. Lindsay was working for the department as a crime lab technician and reached out to him on Facebook. Tom was busy with police academy and school, but Lindsay persisted. For their first date, they saw a movie. "Tom was extra nervous and somehow lost the tickets between the counter and theater entrance and then talked through most of the movie,’’ Lindsay says. “But there was undeniable chemistry.’’ PUPPY LOVE The proposal was delayed when Lindsay got stuck for hours working a crime scene. When she finally got home, she was wrangling their four dogs when she noticed they each were wearing a shiny red tag engraved with the words "Will" "you" "marry" and "me." Lindsay said yes, and then excused herself to grab a couple of hours of sleep. After getting a little rest, they headed off to dinner to celebrate properly! ADVENTURES AHEAD When they started dating, Tom told Lindsay he wanted an adventure buddy, and that became the theme for their epic wedding on Twin Sisters Peaks in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park. Their Omaha reception a few weeks later would have a soft and romantic theme. DRONE DRAMA As they hiked to the summit (in their wedding attire!), the videographer’s drone went crashing down the mountainside, done in by freezing temperatures. Everyone but Lindsay, who is afraid of heights, looked for it after they had exchanged their vows. Only a propeller was broken. “The shot he got right before crashing was one of the best in the whole video," the bride says. "But the crash footage was super funny to watch" during the reception.

COLD AS ICE Icicles formed on their eyelashes during their ceremony, but the photographer’s wife, Sarah Hickenbottom, kept Lindsay looking great for every shot. Lindsay sells LuLaRoe activewear and wore fun leggings from that collection under her gown for the strenuous trek up and down the mountain. Tom wore a “super obnoxious” pair of hers as well, having left his longjohns at home. "It made for a super fun photo,’’ Lindsay says. DREAM WEDDING Their wedding was just what they wanted because they kept the guest count down and didn’t spend money on things they didn’t think were necessary. “If you don’t want the traditional stuff, don’t,’’ Lindsay says. Plus, she says, hiking boots are more comfy than heels. A video keepsake was a must-have. “It is one place that we’re very glad we didn’t cut costs.’’ UNIQUE TOUCHES Guests dined at long tables set in a U-shape around the head table, which made the ballroom feel more intimate. Custom etched wine and beer glasses as favors erased the need for rented glassware and "ugly" plastic cups. Throughout the night, guests wrote sentiments on wooden hearts and dropped them into a clear 3-D picture frame that held a photo of the couple. Lindsay came up with the idea, explaining that it was symbolic of the love surrounding the couple throughout their lives. MORE TO LOVE Along with their fur babies, they now have son Archer, and Tom says Lindsay is an amazing mom. Lindsay says Tom is everything she could ask for in a man, husband and father. “He puts on his uniform everyday and goes to work where he has to be strong and serious,’’ she says. “When he’s at home, he is responsible and yet goofy with our son. With me, he is patient and loving.’’

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BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE! FIND THE VIDEO FROM THIS REAL WEDDING AT

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essential details THE COUPLE LINDSAY LIDDELL AND TOM ARRANCE PHOTOGRAPHER LANE WEDDINGS DATES OCTOBER 3, 2017 (WEDDING), OCTOBER 20, 2017 (RECEPTION)

CEREMONY TWIN SISTERS PEAKS SUMMIT, ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK, COLORADO

RECEPTION SCOULAR BALLROOM

VIDEOGRAPHER ROLAND MASSOW

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S T Y L E D S H O OT

ONE FINE DAY Imagine stealing away to be married on a deserted isle ... in Nebraska. The perfect elopement is only a sandbar away in this styled shoot along the Platte, a broad and shallow river with a slow, romantic pace. Go ahead, lose yourself in one glorious, intimate day .

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A DV I C E

COLOR SPEAKS DUSTY HUES AND ULTRA VIOLET TAKE CENTER STAGE T E X T MARJIE DUCEY P H OTO G R A P H Y MAE SMALL PHOTOGRAPHY, HEIDI THORSON

In 2017, every bride seemingly

wanted a burgundy-and-blush wedding. Not this year. "It’s kind of all over the board," says Lindsay Johnson, owner of Lindsay Elizabeth Events. Nothing too bold or too bright, though. Think dusty rose, icy blue, mauve and lavender. One-third of Johnson's clients for 2018 and early 2019 have chosen dusty color palettes. Blue is trending the strongest, she says. As might be expected, Pantone's 2018 Color of the Year, Ultra Violet, is having a wedding moment. "A lot of cool things can be done with it," says Steven Finkle of 402 Event Services. "I especially like it as an accent." With any bold pop of color, keep your lighting and draping neutral, he suggests. Finkle's pick for a refreshing change: Orange. Try a splash of it amid fairly neutral tones. No matter how you spin the color wheel, blush pink is here for eternity, Johnson says. "It’s a classic." JOHNSON'S TAKE ON DUSTY BLUE

Bride: Ivory or off-white Groom: Navy Bridesmaids: Dusty blue Florals: Neutral blooms or greenery spiked with blue, lavender Linens: Light gray Lighting: Neutral, candlelight Draping: White, ivory, light gray or other neutral

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MODERN COMBOS If you don’t have a color scheme in mind, simply start with one color. This could be a color you love to wear, a hue that evokes an emotion or one that’s tied to a favorite location or season. Next, head to a paint store. Find that one color, then start pairing it with other color chips.Your perfect palette is sure to emerge. Just don't get carried away. Keep your final selection to five or fewer colors. Combos, for inspiration:

PLUM + ORCHID + HUNTER + WHITE

CHAMPAGNE + IVORY + SAND

SAGE + MAUVE + GOLD

AZALEA + DUSTY BLUE + GRAY

LAVENDER + TANGERINE + SUGAR + PEACH

NAVY + DUSTY ROSE + WHITE + HUNTER

FINKLE’S TAKE ON PANTONE'S ULTRA VIOLET Bride: Ivory or white Groom: Black or gray Attendants: Violet (women) and gray (men); or gray (women) and black (men) Florals: Greenery with touch of violet or popped with vibrant pinks (spring) or reds and oranges (fall) Linens: Neutral, similar to bride’s dress, with pop of color in table runners or napkins Lighting: If violet is main color, use it in uplighting. with ivory, black and gray, add royal blue to walls Draping: White or ivory (depending on bride's gown)

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 59

Boho Bliss S T Y L E D S H O OT

Let them eat macaroons ... Chipotle too! Perfectly delightful for a modern Bohemian bride who adores the sense and sensibility of a vintage wedding where even the romantic flourishes have a free and easy vibe.

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PHOTOGRAPHY sam areman photo & ness thomas photo FLORAL i bloom., lincoln CALLIGRAPHY lola calligraphy DRESS blush bridal boutique, lincoln CAKE & MACAROONS le cupcake, lincoln MAKEUP ARTIST acacia linn aesthetics, lincoln HAIR STYLIST emily huttes LOCATION private residence, lincoln MODELS newlyweds, abbie & eric garlock

â&#x20AC;&#x192;weddingessentialsmagazine.com â&#x20AC;&#x192;61

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Omaha

5620 S. 72nd Street 402.339.3707

2066350-01

Lincoln

W W W.AT T I T U D EO N F O O D.C O M | 402 341 3663 WEDDING RECEPTIONS | REHEARSAL DINNERS | BRIDAL SHOWERS

2700 N. 27th Street 402.467.4151

Kearney

112 E. 6th Street 308.234.1015

www.aaarentsevents.com

2085879-01

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 65

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april 8, 2018 10 A.M. TO 3 P.M.

DOWNTOWN OMAHA 1

16 19

the route

Ballroom.Vineyard. Castle. Industrial space. Engaged couples have dozens of choices in venues in the greater Omaha metro area. Twenty-four are spotlighted in our first Wedding Essentials Ring Around the City tour, April 8. Use our map any time of year, though â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just be sure to call in advance of your stops to make sure someone will be on hand to answer your questions.

the venues

1. Omaha Design Center / The Downtown Club

24 23 10

3. Beacon Hills 4. Bel Air Banquet Room 5. Bella Terre 6. DC Centre

12 8

2. Anthony's Steakhouse

7. First Central Congregational Church

8. Founders One Nine 9. Harrah's Hotel & Casino, The Venue 10. Hotel Deco, Park Room 11. Lauritzen Gardens 12. Magnolia Hotel

MINEOLA

13. Platteview Country Club 14. Players Golf Club

5 GLENWOOD

15. Starlight Chateau Event Center

THE AFTERPARTY End your self-guided Wedding Essentials Ring Around the City venue tour on April 8 with a cocktail at Complete weddings + events, 110 N. Ninth St. in the Capitol District. Compare notes, rank your favorites and enjoy the music.

16. The Diamond Room 17. The Fountains Ballroom & Vineyard 18. The Grass Wagon 19. The Old Mattress Factory 20. The Omar 21. 1316 Jones Street 22. One Thousand Dodge 23. The Paxton Ballroom 24. Jams

1. OMAHA DESIGN CENTER

2. ANTHONY'S STEAKHOUSE

3. BEACON HILLS

Let Omahaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most fashionable event destination be the perfect blank canvas to design your day your way. This full-service venue with a seasoned event team can assist you through the entire wedding planning process.

A prime location for your rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony and reception. This venue offers three full service bars, a spacious dance floor, full A/V capabilities and a private patio adjacent to the ballroom.

Situated in Aksarben Village, Beacon Hills provides a convenient location for a bridal shower, rehearsal dinner or reception. Free parking, full-service event planning, custom menus, TV with A/V capability & private patio.

CAPACITY 600 (inside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER Yes

CAPACITY 350 (inside), 200 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 100 (inside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

1502 Cuming St., Omaha 402-819-8792 omahadesigncenter.com

7220 F St., Omaha 402-331-7575 anthonyssteakhouse.com

6750 Mercy Road, Omaha 402-933-3115 beaconhills.com

4. BEL AIR BANQUET ROOM

5. BELLA TERRE

6. DC CENTRE

The Bel Air Banquet room is a one-stop shop. With a focus on making sure you have a stress-free wedding day, set up, decor, catering, and cleanup can all be included in a personalized budget-friendly package.

Bella Terre was designed to provide an amazing atmosphere for wedding ceremonies, receptions, dinners, and other special events and celebrations. Located just 15 minutes from Omaha.

All-inclusive room rental includes: tables, chairs, linens, skirting, china, flatware, napkin color of your choice, bartenders, servers, room captain, security and setup/cleanup. Menu and beverage packages for any budget.

CAPACITY 250 (inside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 400 (inside), 275 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 1,200 (inside), 100 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

12100 West Center Road, Omaha 402-333-5505 belairbanquet.com

23375 Barrus Road, Glenwood, Iowa 402-740-4176 bellaterre.com

11830 Stonegate Drive, Omaha 402-393-7431 dccentre.com

7. FIRST CENTRAL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

8. FOUNDERS ONE NINE

9. HARRAH'S HOTEL & CASINO

Big, beautiful sanctuary. Planning liaison provided. Multiple ministers available to officiate. Musician provided plays classic and contemporary. Non-members welcome.

Founders One Nine is an urban chic event space located in downtown Omaha. The restored facility features exposed brick, reclaimed wood and a slate fireplace. Event coordinators available. Exclusive caterer.

The Venue at Harrah's Hotel and Casino has a built-in bar for cocktails in conjunction with the reception space. Top-of-the-line catering with the Omaha skyline as a backdrop for your event.

CAPACITY 600 (inside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 400 (inside), 150 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 120 (inside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

421 S. 36th St., Omaha 402-345-1533 Firstcentral.org

1915 Jackson St., Omaha 402-558-3272 Foundersomaha.com

1 Harrahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Blvd., Council Bluffs 855-633-8238 Caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs

10. HOTEL DECO, PARK ROOM

11. LAURITZEN GARDENS

12. MAGNOLIA HOTEL

The Park event space at Hotel Deco offers industrial-chic touches amid a bright, open floor plan. It is a blank slate, ready to be transformed to fit your event. Located downtown, steps from the Old Market.

Lauritzen Gardens offers a variety of indoor and outdoor settings that celebrate the elegance of nature and combine to create an incredibly vivid experience.

A simply beautiful atmosphere for us to help you create a dream wedding that is uniquely yours! Welcome to the warmth of historic details seamlessly blended with urban elegance. Unexpected. Unchained. Pure hospitality.

CAPACITY 130 (inside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 300 (inside), 300 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 250 (inside), 250 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

1504 Harney St., Omaha 402-991-4981 Hoteldecoomaha.com

100 Bancroft St., Omaha 402-346-4002, ext. 261 Lauritzengardens.org

1615 Howard St., Omaha 402-231-6008 Magnoliahotels.com

13. PLATTEVIEW GOLF CLUB

14. PLAYERS GOLF CLUB

15. STARLIGHT CHATEAU

All-inclusive wedding packages with amenities such as chair covers, linens, bartenders, dance floor, wedding coordinator, glassware, etc., so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to sweat the small stuff. Wraparound deck to be completed summer 2018.

An elegant countryside retreat in a convenient location, the Players Golf Club offers all-inclusive wedding packages, gorgeous photo opportunities, in-house catering and a full-service bar. Event coordinator provided.

115-year-old monastery with vintage appeal. Elegant ballroom with high ceilings, stage and wood floor. Romantic Southern-style courtyard features a stone grotto and veranda. Catering kitchen. Dressing rooms.

CAPACITY 180 (inside), 300 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 325 (inside), 250 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 225 (inside), 150 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER Yes

4215 Platteview Road, Bellevue 402-291-5927 platteviewcc .com

12101 Deer Creek Drive, Omaha 402-963-9950 herecomestheblog.weebly.com

1310 N. 29th St., Omaha 402-345-1996 starlightchateau.com

16. THE.DIAMOND.ROOM

17. THE FOUNTAINS BALLROOM

18. THE GRASS WAGON

Located in popular north downtown, guests will be wowed by this10,000-square-foot industrial space with outdoor patio. Transform this blank canvas venue into your dream-day vision.

The Fountains Ballroom is an all-inclusive wedding venue nestled in the Loess Hills. It is designed to accommodate the wedding of your dreams. Offering floral, design services, photography, DJ and more!

The Grass Wagon is a spacious, 8,000-squarefoot open floor plan venue. Parking for over 75 vehicles, lounge area, tables, chairs, coat room, bar packages, dressing room.

CAPACITY 450 (inside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 450 (inside), 450 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER Yes

CAPACITY 425 (inside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER Yes

605 N. 13th St., Omaha 402-915-0177 diamondroomomaha.com

51496 230th St., Glenwood, Iowa 712-526-2426 thefountainsballroom.com

110 S. 29th St., Council Bluffs 712-256-0046 grasswagon.com

19. THE OLD MATTRESS FACTORY

20. THE OMAR

21. 1316 JONES STREET

Ceremony, reception or rehearsal dinner. Includes setup, cleanup, linens, parking, catering and coordinating day of the event. 3 rooms available.

We accommodate small intimate events to large elegant events. There is no space like The Omar with our historic brick walls, large windows, and beautiful skylights.

Old-world character and historic charm. Flexible open layout. On-site event specialists. Exposed brick, tons of natural light and private deck with a great view of the Old Market district.

CAPACITY 300 (inside), 120 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 450 (inside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER Yes

CAPACITY 300 (inside), 130 (outside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

501 N. 13th St., Omaha 402-932-0721 themattomaha.com

4383 Nicholas St. Ste 200, Omaha 402-598-7600 omarevents.com

1316 Jones St., Omaha 402-415-8222 1316jones.com

22. ONE THOUSAND DODGE

23. THE PAXTON BALLROOM

24. JAMS LOFT 204

Built as a warehouse in 1928. Redesigned for maximum versatility. Open floor plan, natural light. In the Old Market, near Capitol District, entertainment and lodging options for out-oftown guests.

Unique and historic space with a grand ballroom, tables, chairs, standard table setting, dance floor, stage, room setup and breakdown, A/V equipment, coat room and food and beverage services and more.

Located in the heart of the Old Market, Jams offers a versatile, loft event space and a melting pot of culinary specialties and creative cocktails.

CAPACITY 250 (inside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 300 (inside) CEREMONY SITE Yes OUTSIDE CATERER No

CAPACITY 125 (inside) CEREMONY SITE No OUTSIDE CATERER No

1002 Dodge St., Omaha 402-415-8222 onethousanddodge .com

1403 Farnam St., Omaha 402-342-1403 thepaxtonballroom.com

1101 Harney St., Omaha 402-614-9333 jamseats.com

A DV I C E

FINDING YOUR VENUE A REAL BRIDE KELLY JEFFERSON SHARES HER TIPS TO FINDING THE PERFECT PLACE

e’re getting closer to the big day and drilling further into the details. Most couples will tell you the funnest part is picking out centerpieces and florals, which is what we're currently doing. My favorite part of planning, however, came at the beginning – when we were “envisioning it all” and searching for the perfect venue. After a lot of research, The Pella at Blackstone seemed like the right fit for our vision. It’s a former church, with a traditional choir loft and cathedral ceilings. However, it’s been industrialized with polished concrete floors, light walls and an open floor plan. Its natural light and exposed brick provide just the feeling we want. Here's what I wanted to know before i booked. WHAT IS YOUR CAPACITY? Eliminate spaces that are way too big or too small. Ask venue owners not just how many people the space can hold, but also what seems to be a comfortable number. Sometimes, a venue advertises space for 250, which works for a sit-down dinner, but leaves little space for bars, mingling, a gift table, etc.

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WHAT’S THE COST? It’s important to know the up-front price tag, of course, but be sure to consider incidentals, too. Does the venue provide something as seemingly obvious as chairs and tables? Not all do. How about table linens? Does the venue have AV? Who’s the caterer for the venue, and what’s the pricing structure? Will you have to rent china, or does that come with the catering? How about the cost for the security guard? How much decorating will you have to do? What’s the service charge on the catering (often 20 percent)? Are there any booking specials? One of the things I love about our venue is that most of the above items are included in our rental. IS IT AVAILABLE? If you’re set on a certain date, check the venue's availability before you tour the space. And, of course, the earlier you start looking, the more likely you are to get the date you want. If your date is flexible, this process is much easier. WHAT'S THE TIMELINE? Can you be in the night before to set up? Is it possible to hold your rehearsal there? What time does everything need to be torn down? Does that schedule align with yours?

DOES THE VENUE HAVE A PREFERRED VENDOR LIST? Research these vendors to see whether they fit into your budget and are a good fit for the vibe you want to create. We feel like we are in really good hands with all of our vendors. HOW DO WE FEEL ABOUT THE PEOPLE WE'D BE WORKING WITH? Are they responsive and attentive to our questions and concerns? Do they seem transparent about everything? Because our venue includes so many services, staff will be coordinating everything from top to bottom. That means I don’t have to worry about corralling 10 different vendors on our wedding day. IS THE AESTHETIC RIGHT? It’s your day. If your gut is telling you it’s too formal, too industrial, too small or too hip, look at other options. This city is filled with spaces, and you’re bound to find your perfect blank canvas.

We’ve got everything you’re looking for! Find her blog posts on weddingessentialsmagazine.com where she shares her real-life tips on stretching your dollar, and making sure that your day is so organized that the only thing on your mind is how excited you are to see your other half at the end of the aisle. She also has some non-traditional (but elegant) tricks up her sleeve to infuse the wedding with personal touches that you may want to steal for your own!

Contact: Cyndi Murphy 402.932.0721 info@themattomaha.com

501 N. 13th Street | Omaha, NE

JOIN US! BECOME A

FUN FACTS ABOUT MISS MEANT-TO-BE • I just graduated with my master's in Business Administration from UNO (Go Mavs!). • My fiance, Josh, and I have a style blog that we work on every week. He takes photos, and I share my affordable fashion tips. Find us at withthespecs.com. • In the warmer months, we love to ride our bikes around the beautiful lakes here in Omaha. • I carry my Kindle with me 95% of the time. Send any good book recommendations my way – I’m always searching.

Blog with us. Share your planning journey with other local couples and enjoy a few perks along the way. Visit our website for application and details.

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 75

E N G AG E M E N T

the perfect sunset THE AQUAPONICS FARM BROUGHT JEFF JIROVEC AND HEATHER HUSEN TOGETHER. THAT'S WHERE JEFF PROPOSED, TOO, SO THEY DECIDED IT WOULD BE THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR THEIR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS. P H OTO G R A P H Y ELAYNE WOODS PHOTOGRAPHY T E X T MARJIE DUCEY

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reenhouses and flowers provided the backdrop for a session that included a memorable sunset. “We both just knew it was the right place,’’ Heather recalls. “It’s something that is special to us.’’ Photographer Elayne Woods split the June session between the Haymarket in Lincoln and an 11-acre farm near Denton, where the couple grows produce, cut flowers and plants. Even the vertical towers in the greenhouse, where plants flourish on nutrients provided by farmed fish, were featured. “It was one of my favorite shoots ever,’’ Woods says. “I

generally plan around sunset. This one just happened. It was an amazing sunset, and they are adorable. All the stars aligned for that shoot.’’ She doesn’t like to photograph the same place twice, so using the farm was the perfect opportunity. The couple met when Jeff asked a Doane College graphics design class for help with a logo for his business, Grow With the Flow. The professor turned the request into an assignment, and Jeff liked Heather’s design best. She helped him with some other work, and the relationship grew from there. She now does the marketing for the

5-year-old business. They wanted their dog, Doogle, in the pictures, too, because he played a big role when Jeff proposed. They do tracking with the pit bull mix as a hobby, and the day Jeff proposed, Doogle led Heather right to a glove that Jeff had dropped earlier. Doogle grabbed the treat inside, but Jeff said he was sure something else was hidden in the glove. “Jeff pulls something out and gets down on one knee and says, ‘Heather, will you be my wife?’ It was sunset and Doogle was there!’’ The couple used flowers from their farm for their

September wedding. Heather had been nervous leading up to the engagement shoot. Woods erased the worry. “Nobody else has it,’’ Heather says of the location. “It’s something that is unique to us.’’

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A DV I C E

wedding flowers BEST PICKS FOR THE MONEY T E X T CHRIS CHRISTEN

ulips in December. Hyacinth and blooming branches in January. Peonies in February. Spring flowers for a winter wedding in Nebraska? "You can pretty much can get any flower any time of year,” says Lilian Jacobitz of Creative Fleurs. “With the Internet, florists are able to source growers and wholesalers worldwide.” But here’s the caveat: Sticker shock might apply. Supply and demand could double or triple the cost of flowers traveling across the globe. “A $300 peony bouquet in season in Nebraska might jump to $700 to $900 if the flowers are coming in August or September from Israel or New Zealand, for example,” Jacobitz says.

DA N A O S BO RN E DESIG N

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OTHER INSIDER TIPS ... MONEY-SAVERS ... • Use your bridal party bouquets at the head table. Placed in clear, gold or silver vases, they make a gorgeous centerpiece. • Avoid certain dates. Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day are times when floral shops are hectic and flower prices are higher due to demand. • Get the look for less. Swap peonies or dahlias with garden roses, ranunculus or football mums. But dahlias, in particular, come in a mind-boggling array of colors and sizes and are more readily available and beautiful from local growers from June through mid-September. • For a blush color bouquet, consider carnations. They’re economical and naturally available in pastel yellow, mint, mauve, sand, lavender and pink. • Handle your bouquet with care. Individual vases with water will keep bouquets hydrated throughout the day. “No flower does well for an extended period without water,” Jacobitz warns. “Put the bouquet back in the water after pictures, between the ceremony and reception and during the reception.” SUGGESTED SPENDING PRIORITY 1. Bridal bouquet: $250 to $300 2. Bridesmaid’s bouquets: $90 to $100 each 3. Boutonnieres: $15 to $20 each 4. Centerpieces: $40+ each. "A mix of small- and medium-size centerpieces can be more friendly on your budget," Jabobitz says. "Tall centerpieces easily can have 80 to 90 or more stems of flowers." If flowers at the ceremony site are important, get double use from them at the reception, where they can be enjoyed for four to five hours longer. “A Saturday afternoon ceremony followed by an evening reception works really well for that,” Jacobitz says. “There’s enough time to transfer and reset the arrangements.”

GOOD TO KNOW ... • When shopping for your florist ... ask how your flowers will be processed when they arrive from the wholesaler. “Sometimes it’s not necessarily the flower that doesn’t hold up, it’s the process the florist follows,” Jacobitz says. Proper pruning and hydrating are crucial, she says, in the lifespan of fresh stems. • Trust your florist's recommendation on special orders. Like produce, some flowers simply are best purchased in season from local growers. Zinnias, lily of the valley and especially dahlias are examples. “They don’t stand up well when they come from long distances because

they're already a few days old when they arrive. They need to be fresh cut when your florist begins working with them,” Jacobitz says. • Pinterest and Instagram are major sources of inspiration. That's both a blessing and a curse. “Unfortunately, there are never prices on the flowers and decor,” Jacobitz explains. Try this reality check: If you’re dreaming of a garden rose bouquet on your Pinterest board, count the roses you can see in the picture, then multiply by 2 to roughly include the flowers you can’t see. Next, visit a floral shop and note the price per stem of the prettiest garden rose in the

cooler. Multiply that figure by the total roses you counted. That's your baseline price for the bouquet you pinned. (Try the same exercise with other inspiration photos using our price chart below.) • As a general rule: Your flower budget should represent 10-15 percent of your total wedding budget. “That will keep your florals in proportion to the size of the wedding," says Jacobitz. "Omaha, Nebraska, still has a lot of weddings with 300 to 350 guests, six to eight attendants and 30 reception tables. That all adds to your total expense.”

FLOWERS BY THE STEM Prices are estimated for general comparison. As you’re browsing the list, keep in mind the size of the bloom you’re considering. While colored hydrangeas (pink, purple, red) and Casablanca lilies are expensive per stem, they are large and therefore you will need fewer to make an impact. Delicate flowers such as ranunculus, anemones, lily of the valley, sweet peas, tulips, tweedia, stephanotis and craspedia are among the least expensive per stem, but they are small and you will need a lot of them to make an impact. MORE THAN $10 Calla lily Garden rose Hydrangea (special color) Peony Dahlia Lily of the valley Orchid (cymbidiums, cattleyas, phalaenopsis) Blooming branches

$5-10 Oriental lily Hydrandea (white or mini green) Fern frond (monkey tail) French tulip Gloriosa lily Orchid (dendrobium, mokaras, oncidiums) Stephanotis Pincushion protea Succulent Viburnum

LESS THAN $5 Anemone Asiatic lily Bells of Ireland Carnation Freesia Gerbera daisy Gladiola Green Fuji mum Hyacinth Hypericum berries Larkspur Lisianthus

Phlox Poppy Ranunculus Rose Scabiosa pod Snapdragon Spider mum Stock Sunflower Sweet pea Tulip Tweedia Zinnia

ABOUT $30-$35 (PER BUNCH) Eucalyptus (all varieties) Dusty miller Variegated mini pitt

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 79

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REAL WEDDING

jena & clayton GLEASON PHOTOGRAPHY · SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 · HENRY DOORLY ZOO & AQUARIUM

LOVE IN THE GROCERY AISLE Jena and Clayton met while working at Hy-Vee, where Jena had been recently promoted to pharmacy manager. Clayton was the first to sit next to her at the weekly managers meeting. They turned into Facebook friends, with Jena trying to set him up, and then a friend's dinner at California Taco changed everything. "We ended up hanging out a few more times, bonding over our love of hard rock music and food, and made it official after our first kiss,'' Jena says. BLOWN AWAY Clayton proposed after Jena had frantically driven home from work during a tornado warning. She walked into the kitchen soaking wet and found a note from Clayton to watch a video he had created. It instructed her to follow a rose petal trail downstairs, where Clayton was waiting. "After saying yes, I remember saying, "Why would you do this in this kind of weather? My underwear is soaked!" NATURE THEME Their ceremony and reception in the African Lodge at Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium inspired their theme, “Enchanted Forest Wedding.” Jena wanted greenery everywhere, from succulents to live moss table liners. Everything else had golden accents. PERFECT PRESCRIPTION Jena had several wedding dresses delivered to work and tried them on in the consultation room. "My co-workers and floral department helped me say “Yes to the Dress” in my pharmacy!'' ELEPHANT GUESTS The zoo was still open while they took their wedding photos, so everyone was cheering and clap-

ping as the train passed by them. The conductor even blew his whistle. Their 6 p.m. wedding was delayed because guests had to wait for the elephants to cross the road en route to the ceremony site. "The guests loved it though,'' Jena says. The elephants did some trumpeting during the ceremony, too. IT'S TOO DARN HOT The air conditioning broke around 8:30 p.m. on that 90-degree day, so the reception ended early. "Clayton and I stayed behind with the DJ and had one last slow dance … just the two of us in an otherwise completely empty room. It was sweet, just to enjoy the moment together as husband and wife, without an audience.'' DOUGHNUTS ANYONE? They wanted to give their guests wedding favors they'd enjoy, so everyone received a two-pack of the couple's favorite doughnuts. "Our floral arrangements were so beautiful that everyone ended up taking some home,'' Jena says. "Our floral designer used birch logs instead of traditional vases, which made for super unique centerpieces.'' START EARLY Jena recommends starting your planning early, especially with the big stuff. A day-of coordinator took the stress out of the actual day. "It's a once-in-a lifetime occasion,'' she says. "You don't want to miss a second.'' HAPPY EVER AFTER, EVEN THE DOGS Clayton says Jena is always there for him, while she says Clayton makes even her worst days bearable. "He also lets me treat my dogs like royalty and lets me believe that McDonald's is the most gourmet place to get breakfast.''

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â&#x20AC;&#x192;weddingessentialsmagazine.com â&#x20AC;&#x192;83

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essential details THE COUPLE JENA DRIELING AND CLAYTON AUGHE PHOTOGRAPHER GLEASON PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDING SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 CEREMONY AND RECEPTION AFRICAN LODGE, HENRY DOORLY ZOO & AQUARIUM

BRIDAL GOWN LAZARO 3450, LUXEREDUX BRIDAL ACCESSORIES SARA GABRIEL JEWELRY, READY OR KNOT {WEDDING CHIC}; TIEKS WEDDING SHOES HAIR STYLIST KIRBY KEOMYSAY, KONTEMPO. MAKEUP ARTIST KRISTEN ROZMIAREK, KONTEMPO. BRIDESMAID DRESSES JENNY YOO, READY OR KNOT {WEDDING CHIC}

MEN’S ATTIRE GENTLEMAN’S CHOICE RINGS BORSHEIMS FLORIST HY-VEE, LINDEN MARKET CAKE GIGI’S CUPCAKES CATERER ATTITUDE ON FOOD RENTALS UPTOWN EVENT MUSIC ASE DJ NEBRASKA INVITATIONS/PROGRAMS WEDDING PAPER DIVAS WEDDING FAVORS KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS

S I M P LY

L U X U R I O U S

EVENT PLANNER LINDSAY ELIZABETH EVENTS HONEYMOON DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

2082326-03

Call us for your personal tour | 402.934.4910 7040 N 102nd Circle, Omaha, NE 68122 | www.thehillsomaha.com

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A DV I C E

NEVER WORTH THE STRESS T E X T MARJIE DUCEY

There are so many things to stress about when planning your wedding. Take it from brides who know: When something does Raelyn Ramey Photography

u r b a n . c h i c . e x t r a o r d i n a r y.

remember most – for all the right reasons.

605 N. 13th Street | Omaha, NE 68102 | 402.915.0177 sales@diamondroomomaha.com | www.diamondroomomaha.com

go awry, let it go. Sometimes those moments are the ones you

TIME FLIES

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Guest lists and budgets are inevitably a cause of tension, says Jalynn Vukonich. “Guests will attend who said they wouldn’t and vice versa,’’ she says. “It’s pretty much impossible to avoid.’’ Quite a few people tagged along with other friends for her wedding. Had she known before the fact, Jalynn says that would have caused a lot of stress, but it worked out. “It was an unexpected surprise,’’ she says. “But it was a lot of fun to celebrate with so many friends that we hadn't seen in a while.’’

DISAPPEARING ACT Lindsay Arrance worried about what everyone else would want and the proper way to do things. So, she got married on the top of a mountain with no guests, no bridal party and no frills. The funniest part of the day? When the videographer's drone crashed and tumbled down the mountain as the ceremony began. Lindsay and Tom and the officiant from the Estes Park Wedding Group couldn’t do anything besides look at each other and say, ‘Oh, well.’ “We all thought it was pretty funny once we found it (the drone),’’ Lindsay says. No footage was lost.

MYSTERY PLAYLIST Jena Aughe has been to lots of weddings with almost identical playlists. She was determined to think outside the box. Her custom playlist was a journey through time, with personal favorites from the 1980s for the cocktail hour, 1990s hits over dinner, and current hits for the dance party. “I spent hours agonizing over the exact time each song would play,’’ she admits. “I thought having the perfect playlist was essential to a perfect evening, but I hardly remember hearing any of my ‘essential’ songs,’’ she says. But listen to this: Jena and Clayton were married at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, where elephants provided some music of their own. "The sounds I remember were the flashes from our photographer's camera, the elephants trumpeting during our ceremony, and the joyous conversations among my guests."

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GOLDEN RULE Two weeks before her wedding reception in Omaha, Jena Aughe spotted some gold placemats online. “Even though I already had the perfect gold lattice placemats, I had to have those placemats," just in case they were a better shade of gold for the table. When they arrived, she couldn’t decide, so she left the decision to her wedding planner and floral designer. “They picked the original gold placemat, again proving that the extra stress was for nothing." Her golden rule: Trust your initial instincts.

DOWN-HOME FUN Four days of rain could have done in Brooklyn Curry’s plans for her reception on her family's farm. The weather was cold and miserable the day of the event, too. “But we made the best of it, and even danced in the rain! The pictures turned out beautiful,’’ she says. The old hog barn was a tight squeeze for her 175 guests, but it still worked out well. “It brought everyone a little closer,’’ she quipped.

Make Your Wedding Day Suite

NO HARD FEELINGS Heather Husen knew that a small backyard ceremony was just the ticket. But that meant trimming the guest list. “I spent a lot of time in the beginning stressing over this and wondering if we should opt for a more traditional wedding and relocate to a venue that could fit 100plus guests,’’ she says. “I'm glad we went with our original vision with immediate family and a few close friends. Our extended families were totally understanding."

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FLOWER POWER Hannah Nodskov was worried about ordering fresh flowers and not seeing them until the big day. “My flowers ended up being so perfect I took my bouquet on my honeymoon so I could keep enjoying it.’’

UBER & FRIENDS Alixandria Weiland's big worry was transportation. She fretted about getting her bridesmaids from the salon to the church, and her groom from his parents' house to the barbershop the day of the wedding. Family stepped up and even made it fun. “It was grand piling all the girls into the moms' cars,’’ the bride recalls. “It was much like the good ol' days when our moms shuttled us around before we could drive.’’ A trolley took the wedding party from the church to the reception site. Beverage coolers and champagne were ready to load, along with cups and champagne flutes. “The cups and flutes never made it on the trolley, and the guys forgot to get ice,’’ Alixandria says. “So we made do," drinking warm champagne straight from the bottle. It made for an epic group photo. Uber drivers shuttled the newlyweds and about 10 friends to a tiki bar after the reception. “We ended up walking back to our hotel, it was such a beautiful night in Omaha.’’

Have a destination wedding without leaving town. Say, “I do” at the Zoo. Celebrate your day in the newly completed Education Conference Center at the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium, featuring a 24’ tropical reef aquarium. For rental details, call (402) 738-2088.

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REAL WEDDING

alixandria & nicholas THE MULLERS · SEPTEMBER 30, 2017 · THE LIVING ROOM

WORK BUDDIES They toiled together at Bronco's for two years before their first date. “Sometimes you find love in strange places and sometimes even over french fries,’’ Alixandria says. SHE’S A WINNER While living in St. Louis, Nicholas told Alixandria to be awake and look nice at 6 a.m., and she honestly thought she had won the HGTV Urban Oasis. Instead, it was a hot-air balloon ride. “We were mid-flight when Nicholas tried to get down on one knee, but there was hardly enough room,’’ Alixandria recalls. “As he began his sappy speech, the pilot kept cranking the propane, interrupting Nicholas (unintentionally). We were laughing and crying so hard our faces hurt.’’ VETERAN GUESTS After attending many weddings, they knew what was important: guests and food. They’re not traditional either, so they planned on a blush wedding gown and to have their dog in attendance. Sadly, Ella died a few months before the big day. SPECIAL TOUCHES They both are hugely proud of their dimples, so “The Secret Dimple Society” became their wedding brand. Each guest was touched to find a handwritten note from the bride or groom at their table, and a ticket to the late-night food truck. The industrial framework of the Living Room was transformed with tulle, greenery and warm lighting. They skipped the guestbook and gift table but encouraged guests to donate to a local arts campaign. “One card still hangs on our fridge though,’’ Alixandria says. “We love to travel, and so does a distant relative. They gave us a two-page handwritten note of

seven places to visit. It was one of the most genuine gifts we have ever shared and showed us how much our family realizes what we value as a couple.’’ HOOPS STAR Alixandria decided to play a little basketball while shooting wedding portraits in the park. “I don’t think I even hit the backboard during a single layup,’’ she laughs. “Our wedding party still won’t let me live it down.’’ ALONE TIME They shared their first dance while guests finished dinner and watched their “Love Story” video. It was a sweet moment that ended with a big announcement. “We were relocating back to Omaha and kept it all a secret – even from our parents,’’ Alixandria says. GO GREEN They are both environmentally conscious and tried to find small solutions to reduce waste. They printed save-the-date inserts on seedling paper intended to be planted. They asked for online RSVPs on their wedding website hosted by Riley & Gray Luxury Weddings. “The site gave us our own domain name and password protection, and allowed our guests to send their updated information, donate to our charity and electronically submit their full RSVP,’’ Alixandria says. ALL ABOARD Alixandria loves to travel, and Nicholas can’t wait to discover the places they’ll go. After eight years of dating, they’ve grown up together, and Alixandria is proud of the man Nicholas has become. “He knew me when I was a poor college student eating cereal three times a day and would go a week without brushing my hair, and he still married me.’’

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essential details THE COUPLE ALIXANDRIA WAYNE AND NICHOLAS WEILAND PHOTOGRAPHER THE MULLERS WEDDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2017 REHEARSAL DINNER LO SOLE MIO CEREMONY ST. THOMAS MORE CATHOLIC CHURCH RECEPTION THE LIVING ROOM VIDEOGRAPHER LACEWORK FILMS BRIDAL GOWN ELIZABETH DYE, A&BÉ BRIDAL SHOP, MINNEAPOLIS ACCESSORIES BHLDN HAIR STYLIST MELODY FOSTER OF KONTEMPO. AND NOVEL HAIR SALON

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WORTH THE SPEND TRAVEL SPECIALISTS UNCOVER DETAILS EASILY MISSED

GIANNA HOWARD HATED TO DISAPPOINT HER FATHER. But a big wedding in Omaha wasn’t her dream. Fiance Chris Harris agreed. “I’ve always wanted a small, intimate wedding,’’ she admits. “Chris and I love to travel, so I thought, 'Why not have a wedding on a beach?’ ’’ She’s not the only one thinking that way. Destination weddings to Mexico and the Caribbean are on the upswing, says Elise Aust of Custom Cruises & Travel. With more information about how to stay safe, the lull created by the Zika virus appears to be over. Howard and Harris are headed to Montego Bay, Jamaica, for an October wedding on the beach at sunset. The couple originally had their sights

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P H OTO G R A P H Y ANNA KIM PHOTOGRAPHY

on Aruba, but meeting with Aust changed their minds. It can be windy on the beach there, Aust told them, and flights from Omaha can be more complicated. Such information is one reason Howard decided to work with a wedding travel specialist. She had already run into roadblocks with unreturned and delayed phone calls from resorts she was considering. “It’s one less thing for me to worry about,’’ Howard says. “It’s been super helpful.’’ Howard sent out 40 save-the-date announcements. She expects the cost of her destination wedding to be less than if she had stayed in Omaha as her dad had preferred. That is if she can resist add-ons like more time with a photographer and an extended cocktail hour. She still has a few months to de-

cide on those details. But she made a commitment to Montego Bay several months in advance so friends and family would have lots of time to arrange days off work and save for the additional expense. She can’t wait. “It’s a great opportunity to celebrate for myself and Chris,’’ she says, “and to have four days of fun with family and friends.’’

COURTESY OF GIANNA HOWARD

T E X T MARJIE DUCEY

Aust, a certified wedding and honeymoon specialist, offers these considerations for a destination wedding: • All-inclusive resorts make it easy to plan your big day. You can give your guests a price quote for the trip that includes everything from food to airfare. Guests can choose a basic model or a top-of-thetier model with lots of extras, and no need to spend another cent. • Don’t think about your budget; think about the budget of your most financially strapped guest, Aust recommends. Remember you’re asking people to take time off work and to travel. “You don’t want a fivestar wedding and nobody can afford to come,’’ Aust says. • A destination wedding can cost between $3,200 and $4,000 for a ceremony, cocktail party and dinner reception. But it’s easy to get caught up in add-ons like runners, chair covers and flowers. “I’ve had couples perfectly satisfied with a package of $3,000 and other couples who have gotten up to $10,000 to $12,000,’’ Aust says. • Consider help from a travel planner. There are benefits.

They can take care of all the travel arrangements, tip you to the best deals, and be the middle man between you and a resort thousands of miles away. You can focus on your wedding instead of whether Aunt Susie finally got her passport or Uncle Johnny has a ride from the airport to the hotel. Booking as a group means rooms will be close together, and there may be other perks. • It's typical for travelers to bring along their wedding attire and favors. A lot of couples fly Southwest Airlines for its offer of two free checked bags. The dress itself is carried on. “It’s as complicated as it would be to have any wedding anywhere,’’ Aust says. Ceremonies in the Caribbean can be more casual so there might not be as much to pack. Some men opt for a tropical shirt rather than a suit. • You can get married on a cruise or on the top of the mountain, and then hold a reception when you return home. Most places offer a package for every price range. Just make sure, if you pick a popular resort, to commit early to your big day.

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Celebrate your day

DESTINATION TIMELINE A destination wedding has a timeline all its own. The hustle and bustle isn't removed; it's just different with the extra component of long-distance decision-making. Plan carefully and travel confidently!

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• Build your wedding website • Send save-the-date announcements with preliminary travel details • Shop for bridal attire

4-6 MONTHS • Send invitations; include travel details in enclosures • Tackle smaller details, such as renting the groom's attire or finding your bridal accessories

1-3 MONTHS • Confirm RSVPs, numbers in your group • Troubleshoot last-minute inquiries and cancellations

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TWO WEEKS BEFORE DEPARTURE • Begin packing wedding/reception items that will travel with you or someone in your party

ONE WEEK BEFORE DEPARTURE • Double-check packing lists, travel documents and all reservations • Put travel alerts on your credit cards • Switch your mobile phone to an international data/calling plan, if traveling outside the U.S. • Leave your contact info and a key with someone at home, just in case an item is left behind and has to be overnighted to you Source: Melita DeHazes, OFX

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SAY IT WITH

flowers T E X T CHRIS CHRISTEN

FL OW ER S H AV E A LANGUAGE O F THEIR OWN. Nineteenth century Victorians were the first to discover just how much a simple handpicked bouquet could say in matters of romance. Courtships during that prudish time thrived and died by the combinations of blooms in "talking bouquets," most commonly known as tussie-mussies. The practice became so prevalent, a scientific name emerged: floriography. Tussie-mussies aren’t likely to return anytime soon, but how romantic would it be to tuck a few stems symbolic of your love and affection in your wedding bouquet?

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COMMON BLOOMS AND THEIR POETIC MEANINGS

AMARYLLIS – splendid beauty

MAGNOLIA – nobility of heart

BELL FLOWER – gratitude

MARJORAM - happiness

BLUEBELL – faithfulness, humility

PASSION FLOWER – fervent devotion

BOXWOOD – constancy, friendship

PEONY – devotion, bashfulness

BUTTERCUP – cheerfulness

PEPPERMINT – warmth, cordiality

CARNATION (WHITE) – pure love

PINK ROSE – perfect happiness

CHRYSANTHEMUM – friendship, compassion, joy

PURPLE LILAC – first love

COLUMBINE (WHITE) – hope

PURPLE SCABIOUS – mourning, remembrance

CONEFLOWER – refinement

ROSE – sacred love, beauty, gentleness

DAHLIA – good taste, elegance

ROSEMARY – remembrance

DAISY – beauty, innocence, simplicity

SMOKE BUSH – rare beauty

EUCALYPTUS – protection

SNAPDRAGON – presumption

GARDENIA – ecstasy

SOLOMON’S SEAL – permanence, protection

HONEYSUCKLE – devoted love, fidelity

SWEET PEA – youth, purity

HYACINTH – beauty, constancy, eternal love

SWEET WILLIAM – gallantry

IVY LEAF - friendship

TULIP – fame, renown

JASMINE – amiability, sensuality

VIOLET – wisdom, hope, faithfulness

LILY OF THE VALLEY – return of happiness

WILD STRAWBERRY – perfect goodness

Source: “Discovering the Meaning of Flowers” by Shane Connolly ($30, Cleverview Books)

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REAL WEDDING

brooklyn & brian TRIN JENSEN PHOTOGRAPHY · MAY 20, 2017 · FAMILY FARM

LOVE AT FIRST GLANCE They met at a mutual friend's wedding. They caught eyes all night, but Brian never made a move. “As he was saying his goodbyes and about to leave, I walked up to him and asked him why he hadn't asked me to dance. The rest is history.’’ TONGUE-TIED Brian proposed on his birthday. Brooklyn thought they were just having dinner with his parents and grandparents to celebrate. He said his parents were running late, and he wanted to take a detour to show her some trails at Pioneers Park. “I totally blanked on what I was going to say,’’ he remembers. “We got to the spot I had picked out, and rambled my way through countless ‘I love yous’ and nothing I had prepared beforehand. I then got down on my knee and blurted, 'Will you marry me, Brooklyn Bailey Jones?’’’ FARM LIVING IS THE PLACE TO BE She wanted the wedding to be on her family's farm, where she grew up. They wanted a simple but elegant event. “Eclectic sentimental bohemian with personal elements,’’ she explains. CHANGE OF PLANS They’d planned on an outdoor reception, but it rained for four days before the ceremony. There wasn’t enough room in the barn where the ceremony was to be held so they moved the reception to an old hog barn that was full of debris. “Luckily, that’s what family is for,’’ Brooklyn says. “In one (very long) day, we cleaned out the building and

swept the dust off the beams and out of the cracks. It was still going to be a tight squeeze with the tables and guests ... but we knew this would be a wedding everyone would always remember.’’ TIMELINE SHOT Just before the ceremony, when things should have been organized, they lost track of time and had to jog through some puddles and muddy areas to get to the barn. ALL FILLED UP They served hors d’oeuvres during the happy hour between the wedding and the reception and forgot to announce that dinner would follow shortly after. Everyone rushed to fill their plates and left no room for the dinner cuisine. Meanwhile, the newlyweds ate dinner alone. “Take time for yourselves and slow things down,’’ Brooklyn says. “It’s your day. Enjoy the little things about it.’’ MEMORIES Their favorite wedding gift was getting to call each other husband and wife. “Also, Brian had my grandmother’s bike restored,’’ Brooklyn says. “My grandmother was a huge part of my life, and now I have a big part of her with me always.’’ SUNSET BLISS Right before sunset, they went outside to take photos. “We danced and laughed in the grassy field with the sun behind us. Brian was holding me and reminding me that the shivers, goosebumps and numbness would all be worth it. The temperature was in the mid-40s; you'd never tell by the photos.’’

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LOCATION

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N/A

EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista

402-408-5470 embassysuitesomahalavista.com

2,500

N/A

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LOCATION

CONTACT

MAX INSIDE

MAX OUTSIDE

FIRST CENTRAL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

421 S. 36th St.

402-345-1533 firstcentral.org

600

N/A

FLEMING'S STEAKHOUSE 140 Regency Parkway

402-393-0811 flemingssteakhouse.com

N/A

FOUNDERS ONE·NINE 1915 Jackson St.

402-558-3272 foundersomaha.com

400

150

FOUNTAINS BALLROOM & VINEYARD 51496 230th St., Glenwood

402-884-1177 thefountainsballroom.com

480

300

FOUNTAINS WEST, THE 4714 N. 120th St.

402-496-3000 thefountainsballroom.com

280

N/A

GRASS WAGON, THE 110 S. 29th St., Council Bluffs

712-256-0046 grasswagon.com

275

N/A

HENRY DOORLY ZOO & AQUARIUM 3701 S. 10th St.

402-738-2088 omahazoo.com

325

N/A

HILLS EVENT VENUE, THE 7040 N. 102nd Circle

402-934-4910 thehillsomaha.com

375

150

HILTON OMAHA 1001 Cass St.

402-998-4215 omaha.hilton.com

800

N/A

HOLLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 1200 Douglas St.

402-345-0202 omahaperformingarts.org

330

N/A

HOTEL DECO XV 1504 Harney St.

402-991-0493, ext. 252 hoteldecoomaha.com

130

N/A

IL PALAZZO 5110 N. 132nd St.

402-493-8888 omahapalazzo.com

400

N/A

JAMS 1101 Harney St.

402-614-9333 jamseats.com

125

N/A

LAURITZEN GARDENS 100 Bancroft St.

402-346-4002 lauritzengardens.org

280

300

LIED LODGE/ARBOR DAY FARM 2700 Sylvan Road, Nebraska City

800-546-5433 liedlodge.org

450

350

MAGNOLIA HOTEL OMAHA 1615 Howard St.

402-231-6062 magnoliahotels.com

250

RENTALS

CEREMONY SITE

OUTSIDE CATERER

weddingessentialsmagazine.com 109

MAX INSIDE

MAX OUTSIDE

712-323-0536 midamericacenter.com

1,000

N/A

OAK HILLS COUNTRY CLUB 12325 Golfing Green Drive

402-895-3636 oakhillscountryclub.org

245

N/A

OLD MATTRESS FACTORY, THE 501 N. 13th St.

402-932-0721 themattomaha.com

300

N/A

OMAHA DESIGN CENTER 1502 Cuming St.

402-819-8792 omahadesigncenter.com

600

N/A

OMAHA MARRIOTT, REGENCY 10220 Regency Circle

402-399-9000 omahamarriott.com

600

N/A

OMAHA MARRIOTT, CAPITOL DISTRICT 222 N. 10th St.

402-807-8000 downtownomahamarriott.com

850

2,000

OMAR 4383 Nicholas St., Ste 200

402-598-7600 omarevents.com

450

N/A

ONE THOUSAND DODGE 1002 Dodge St.

402-415-8222 onethousanddodge.com

250

N/A

ORPHEUM THEATER 409 S. 16th St.

402-345-0202 omahaperformingarts.org

230

N/A

PAXTON BALLROOM, THE 1403 Farnam St.

402-342-1403 thepaxtonballroom.com

300

N/A

PLAYERS CLUB, THE 12101 Deer Creek Drive

402-963-9950 herecomestheblog.weebly.com

325

250

REGENCY LODGE 909 S. 107th Ave.

402-397-8000 regencylodge.com

250

N/A

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT 106 S. 15th St.

402-342-4770 marriott.com/omart

SCOTT CONFERENCE CENTER 6450 Pine St.

402-778-6317 scottcenter.com

500

N/A

STARLIGHT CHATEAU 1310 N. 29th St.

402-345-1996 starlightchateau.com

225

150

TIBURON GOLF CLUB 10302 S. 168th St.

402-896-1323 tiburongolf.com

400

300

UNMC TRUHLSEN CAMPUS EVENTS CENTER 619 S. 42nd St.

402-559-5192 unmc.edu/eventscenter

325

N/A

LOCATION

CONTACT

MID-AMERICA CENTER One Arena Way, Council Bluffs

110

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Come Celebrate!

Weddings | Receptions | Rehearsal Dinners | Showers Custom food and bar menus included, patio available, impeccable service - all to make your special day perfect. Della Costa can provide everything you need to make it the most memora ble, easiest day of your life.

Reserve your special dates today! | 402-614-5100 | dellacostaomaha.com

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MARRIOTT OMAHA DOWNTOWN CAPITOL DISTRICT

CONSIDER US YOUR SOMETHING NEW

photos by Trin Jensen Photography