Hey Rhody Weddings August 2022

ISSUE AUGUST 2022 W eddings FREEHow to Make Your Event Personal HeyRhody.com + Why the Ocean State is the destinationbestfortyingtheknot PLUS: This Month’s Rhody Gem • Custom Gifts • Fashion Trends • Expert Advice • Creative Desserts • Signature Drinks • Grooming Goods

23 North Road, Suite A-16 South ShelbyWhiteBeauty.com401.644.3908Kingstown Hair • Makeup • Bridal WEDDINGS On location bridal hair and makeup services, including airbrush makeup and faux lashes Wether you are a Glam Bride or Natural Beauty, our team at SW Beauty is here to get you ready for your special day! IN SALON Full service hair salon specializing in balayage, blondes & tape-in and hand-tied hair extensions! Book Online for Appointments! Perfect Day! Beautiful Bride

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com2 35 Say “I Do” in RI Why travel when the Ocean State is the perfect wedding destination? COVER STORY 58 Dress Trends No-fail tips for assembling this season’s hottest trend: mix-and-match wedding wear ADVICE & STYLE 28 ClambakeCatering From hot rock bakes to lobster boils, bring the ultimate seafood experience to your vows FOOD & DRINK 66 Local Registry Put your imprint on the big day with items from Rhody makers GOODS & GIFTS FEATURES Photo by Jamal and Lashana Photography, courtesy of Designed by Delsie, Floral Arrangements by Town House Flowers Inc

GANSETTWRAPS.COM NarragansettMiddletownWesterlyStorrs,CT Soups Salads Wraps SAVE TIME ORDER ONLINE Damianmarcphotography.comscenic_narragansett

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com4 News & Life 10 A Rhody wedding photographer’s fresh takes on eloping local and non-traditional vows 14 Advice on how to keep the big day small from our sta newlywed 18 RHODY PETS: Get your pooch aisle-ready + the adoptable Pet of the Month 20 RHODY GEM: An East Greenwich boutique that specializes in intimate apparel 22 The return to large-scale events is resulting in a boom for the wedding industry CONTENTS 10 32 66 Food & Drink 26 IN THE KITCHEN: Two brothers cater an immersive experience 30 RHODY RECIPE: A PVD givessignaturedistillery’scocktailtropicalvibes 32 Move over cake – creative local bakers o ering donut walls, macaron towers, and more Goods & Gifts 68 SHOP: Supplies and tools from around the region for the well-groomed groom 70 RHODY READS: Six books about love, Rhode Island style 72 CALENDAR: Your “I do” must-do’s 73 #HEYRHODYPHOTOS : A colorful mosaic from local Instagrammers Advice & Style 48 An artist ready to paintingyourcommemorateeventbylive-withoils 52 INFLUENCER: to-beentrepreneurphotographer/buddingThisandbride-shareswisdom 54 THE RIGHT FIT: From trying on suits to having the handmade gown of your dreams On the Cover: The very Rhody nuptials of our own Sascha Roberts. Photography by Mac Olink, courtesy of Mr. & Mrs. Roberts. Photo by Rhode Tripper Photography Photo courtesy of Rag & Bone BinderyPhoto courtesy of Silver Spoon Bakery

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com6 JOIN MY MATCHMAKING DATABASE AT GETREADYTODATE.COM Debra L’Heureux, Rhode Island’s top Matchmaker for Get Ready To Date has been in the business of helping people find love for over 20 years! ARE YOU LOOKING FOR LOVE? Call Debra: 401-289-0900 I do not feel a ractive any more… My husband passed away a year ago and I have been very sad about his passing. I was married for 35 years. More than that, I do not feel attrac tive any more and feel frumpy and not contemporary. Where do I begin? ank you for your assistance. ank you for reaching out to me. I appreciate you being so transparent and vulnerable. It’s understandable that you don’t feel contemporary, as you have been in a long term marriage. We tend to get very comfortable when in a happy and long term marriage. My recommendation is that you add new zest in your life! Ask your hairdresser to try a new haircut or color your hair a new shade. Go to your favorite boutique and dare to wear some new clothes that make you feel beautiful and even sexy. Many stores employ personal shoppers and you will nd that this is a great investment. You can develop a brand new style and con dence as well. Have fun and take the leap to a brand new you! Regards, Gloria BristolWarmly, Debra Dear DeaGloria, r Gloria, Give me a call and schedule a complimentary consultation to explore opportunities to meet amazing, relationship minded singles who are motivated, just like you to nd love again. PS: Dear DeaDebra, r Debra, 1944 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, RI 02889 401-305-3391 •HeyRhody.comMail@ProvidenceOnline.com Presented by Providence Media, publishers of The Bay, Providence Monthly, and So Rhode Island Copyright ©2022 by Providence Media. All rights reserved. Publishers Barry JohnRichardFainFleischerHowell General Manager & Creative Director Nick DelGiudice August 2022 Distribution Services Special Delivery Subscribe Today! HeyRhody.com/MailToYou Contributing Writers Ken PattyJackiePearlAbramsFarquharsonIgnallJ Belinda Jones Hugh Minor Erin MeganMcGinnSchmit DesignAdvertisingDirector Layheang Meas Senior Designer Taylor Gilbert Senior DesignerEditorial Abigail Brown Contributing Photographers Mackenzie PhotographyKarenPhotographyJamalPhotographyLaurenValecioPhotographyJanellePhotographyCharityPhotographyBremgesHopeD’AmbrosiaEstrelaFairandLashanaKarlberg Erin MovePhotographyMcGinnMountains Co. Mac DevinJasonAliPhotographyRhodePhotographyKendallOlinkPavanTripperSilvaWesselZuba Looking for an internship? Email Elyse@ProvidenceOnline.com Interns Hannah CarolineGoldmanMitchell Casey Williams Account Managers Shelley Cavoli Louann DiMuccio-Darwich Ann KristineGallagherMangan Olf Elizabeth Riel Interested in advertising? Email Marketing@ProvidenceOnline.com Digital Media Manager Sascha Roberts Editor in Chief Elyse Major Editor Karen Greco Managing Editor Abbie Lahmers

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 7 Make an Elegant Entrance In an Original Creation by Maria Barraza Custom Designed In Distinctive Fabrics For Your Life’s Special Occasions! ~ MoB/MoG & Wedding Dresses ~ Rehearsal Dinner Apparel ~ Signature Silks, off-the-rack, in a Myriad of Color Choices ~ Custom Designed Jewelry to Complement Your Special Outft Perfectly! 107A Water Street Stonington Borough www.BARRAZAStyle.comCT Open 7 days 12pm-4pm CT: NYC:860.535.2025212.470.8699 Or by Appointment CONTRIBUTORS PEARL FARQUHARSON

Proprietor and lead wedding planner of Designed by Delsie, Pearl Farquharson came onto our radar during last year’s inaugural Weddings issue. Her passion to curate extraordinary experiences with a focus on diversity and bold design made her our top choice to pen this year’s cover story and we’re so happy she said yes! In “Destination Rhode Island” on page 35, Farquharson makes the case for celebrating locally.

JACKIE IGNALL A former NYC beauty and travel editor, today Jackie Ignall makes her home in Barrington along the shoreline where she writes the lifestyle blog Wander + Lash, covering beauty, style, travel, and New England living. In “Perfectly Groomed” on page 68, Ignall gives her blessing on six products made for men.

MAC OLINK The beautiful cover shot – which features a micro wedding experience in PVD (story on page 14) was taken by Mac Olink. Hailing from North Providence, this busy professional wedding and commercial photographer and cinematographer cites people and products as favorite subjects. In his downtime, find Olink hitting the links.

ERIN MCGINN Erin McGinn is a multifaceted photographer focused on storytelling for hospitality brands and makers. With an essence of sun-kissed Southern California and roots in Rhode Island, McGinn’s lifelong love of travel inspires her experiential photos. In “Match Game” on page 58, she pairs her images with words in her first editorial contribution for this magazine.

NEWS & LIFE Eloping | Experience | Rhody Pets | Rhody Gem | Industry Bride Liz and groom Dan include their dog Nala in their vows Photo by Karen Karlberg Photography 18

“I

D’Abrosca is a self-described “serial wedding professional,” having worked as a bridal stylist for three years and then event coordinator with a boutique catering company for over 60 wed dings, becoming an expert of the behind-thescenes minutia. “I’ve been dreaming of wed dings, sketching designs, and creating collages of weddings since I was a kid,” D’Abrosca shares.

When she decided to break off and start her own wedding photography business in 2020, D’Abrosca says, “I knew I needed to do things dif ferently.” Along with taking an artistic and candid approach to photography (and providing the op tion to work in retro film methods), her specialty in the less-conventional is wide-sweeping. “When I say non-traditional, I mean more intentional and representative of couples who aren’t traditionally seen in mainstream wedding media. I’m talking non-white, LGBTQIA+, plus-sized,” she says, “but I also mean non-traditional in the sense of using funky venues that aren’t typically hosting wed dings” and challenging the status quo, whether that means serving breakfast food for dinner or hosting cocktail hour before the ceremony. Do” Your Way

From eloping local to eclectic venues, this wedding photographer will coach you through a non-traditional ceremony

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“I like to remind my couples that it’s their day and they don’t have to do something just because it seems like everyone else is,” says D’Abrosca, the wedding cheerleader, consul tant, and photographer behind Rhode Tripper Photography. “In fact, I encourage them to do the opposite, to stand out and make the day the ultimate reflection of them.”

By Abbie Lahmers M

PhotographyD’AmbrosiaJanellebyhotoP Meaghan and Evan, the photography couple behind Rhode Tripper

aybe you want to bring your vows off the beaten path or throw an epic wedding shin dig at your favorite place to hang, but don’t know where to start. For the couples who often don’t see themselves or their visions represented in wedding media, Meaghan D’Abrosca founded her unique and inclusive business around making those off beat wedding dreams come true.

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 11 40 Ocean Road, Narragansett 401.789.0700 | thecoastguardhouse.com LUNCH & DINNER OUTDOOR & INDOOR SEATING OPEN YEAR ROUND 7 DAYS 2015–2021 SEA FOOD SEA FRIENDS SEA VIEW WATERFRONT DINING 606 Ten Rod Road, North Kingstown, RI 02852 401-295-2760 • fabricgalleryri.com Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10-5 • Thursday 10-6 Saturday 11-3 • Sunday & Monday closed Because Your Home Matters to You! First Quality Fabrics • Design Assistance Cushions • Custom Bedding • Custom Lampshades Custom Fabrication • Hardware (Rods) Outdoor Selections • Pillows • Slipcovers Shades • Shutters • Trims • Upholstery Window Treatments • Wallpaper LET'S HAVE SOME FUN HIGH IN THE SKY! ENJOY BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND’S COASTLINE 9 BOWEN'S WHARF, NEWPORT • 401-601-0330 • ISLANDSTYLEPARASAIL.COM FOLLOW US ON LET'S HAVE SOME FUN HIGH IN THE SKY! 494 Glen Rock Rd., W. Kingston 401 783 2350 peterpots.com daily 10 5, Sun.12 5 peter pots pottery Functional elegance and whimsical charm make our Pogy Pitcher a perennial favorite

And for the couple looking to throw the party of the year, D’Abrosca and her husband Evan – who’s also the second photographer for Rhode Tripper – have firsthand experi ence with that, too. Their own wedding took place at the New Bedford Whaling Museum and included 100 guests, a ceremony they wrote themselves, and a cocktail hour with food inspired by their favorite Rhode Island restaurants – an experience that couldn’t be more unique to who they are. “I just want the same thing for all of our couples, with pho tos that capture the essence of their day and all those personal touches,” says D’Abrosca. “I meet my clients where they’re at,” she continues. “If they need just a few ven dor recommendations or tons of planning help, ideas, mood boards – you name it –I’m in. It’s a part of what we offer, but I’m also so passionate about it.”

A big part of her business is also elope ments. While adventure destinations are appealing to some couples, “I’m more into private homes and urban elopements,” says D’Abrosca, describing a Providence one in the works with paparazzi-style photos using direct flash, along with a recent elopement that took place at a family’s member’s house on the beach. “It’s intentional, it’s intimate, and it’s personal to the couple.”

FAMILY OFFICIANT

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ELOPEMENT PARTY

Though the flexibility and low cost of an elopement is tantalizing, it’s also not for everyone. “I think you really need to take a step back and decide if you’ll be disappoint ed if you don’t have the big wedding with all the extended family and friends. And I don’t mean think about if your guests will be disappointed; I mean you ,” says D’Abros ca. “If you’ll be uncomfortable in the spot light, you don’t love sit-down meals and all the pomp and circumstance, then maybe an elopement is for you.”

INCLUSIVE VENDORS

PhotographyTripperRhodebyhotoP

If you’re into the spirit of eloping but still want to celebrate your marriage with friends and family, “I suggest eloping first and having a big casual party afterward.”

Wedding photos at The Wayfinder take advantage of retro accents

Different from a micro-wedding, “an elopement is more of a mindset shift to be ing a little more ‘selfish’ in planning your day,” D’Abrosca explains. Though some cou ples will bring along a couple of close friends or family, guest considerations are nearly nonexistent, and there’s more flexibility to be creative in planning the perfect day.

Having trouble finding an officiant who’s the right fit? Opt for a family member or friend. “It makes it so much more personal, and it’s super easy to get a one-day officiant certificate from the Secretary of State.”

FUN WITH FILM

NEWS & LIFE MOOD BOARD

Among the LGBTQIA+ inclusive vendors D’Abros ca works with are Bella Rose Beauty (BellaRose BeautyRI.com) for hair and makeup, wedding plan ner Madden Made Events (MaddenMadeEvents. com), and Janelle D’Ambrosia Photography (JanelleDambrosiaPhotography.com) for wedding and elopement photography. “I myself am a member of the community, too – bi-wife energy over here!”

“Film requires an intentionality that you don’t get often with digital and is such a beautiful, tangible form of photography. I mean who hasn’t gone into an old relative’s home and looked through old al bums and boxes filled with photos taken on film?” Grainy, moody Polaroids and artsy effects from ar tificial lighting and prisms are also options.

If your wedding planning is still in those initial steps of gathering inspo, here’s a few ideas from D’Abrosca to get the gears turning. For photography services and a blog packed with inspo, visit RhodeTripperPhotography.com

SWEETSTREAMSCHOCOLATE.COM PERFECTPICNIX.COM LET US MAKE YOUR WEDDING DAY OR SPECIAL EVENT MAGICAL! Specializing in Weddings • Bridal Showers • Proposals • Engagement Parties Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties • Rehearsal Dinners For a free Consultation Call 401-615-4251

Tiny Wedding, Big Love

A first-hand account of planning personalizeda micro wedding in Providence

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H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com14 NEWS & LIFE hen my (now) husband Bryan and I decided to get married, we knew we want ed to do something a little different – no engagement, minimal fuss, and a very short guest list. A friend of ours gave us the best advice: plan your favorite date night and invite your friends and family. So that’s what we did. On display in our micro wedding was the city where we fell in love, Providence –and fun cocktails were a must, too.

By Sascha Roberts

DINNER, DRINKS & DESSERT Bryan and I had date nights all over the city, but there was always something special about Courtland Club, with its exposed brick, innova tive cocktails, fun staff, and intimate size – the perfect fit for our wedding. We reached out to founder and director Jay Shechtman, secured our ideal fall date, and it was go time. (Pro tip: while we were luckily able to book the venue three months ahead, at least one year in advance is recommended.) Working with their team made it fun and easy to nail down the details of a vege tarian-friendly menu and the perfect his and hers cocktails, bringing our vision to fruition. We received the ultimate wedding gift from my childhood best friend’s mom – a custom dessert spread. An at-home gourmet baker, she whipped up three flavors of cupcakes, cheesecake bites, and the icing on the (figurative) cake: cookies deco rated to look like our beloved cats. For a similar ly customizable experience, I would recommend looking into Gingersnaps Bakery in Lincoln, Wright’s Dairy Farm in North Smithfield, or Sin Bakery in Providence.

W

SETTING The first step was deciding on the location. Hav ing both lived in Providence for almost 10 years, we wanted our favorite scenes to backdrop the day: the skyline, our home on the East Side and its surrounding sights, and our favorite restau rants, bars, and hotels. We originally thought a City Hall ceremony would be the perfect fit, but wanting it to be a special moment for our immedi ate family and friends to share with us, we realized we needed room and a view. Once we obtained the permits from the Providence Parks Depart ment three months before the date, it was official: Prospect Park would be the ultimate backdrop.

Sascha and Bryan Roberts’ micro wedding backdropped by the Providence skyline

Q UICK PICK-ME-UP Start the morning off right with a wholesome (and a little indulgent) breakfast. Rebelle Bagel on Doyle Avenue or one of many Seven Stars locations are perfect Providence spots for to-go or catered light bites for you and your person-to-be and guests. A dessert custompersonalizedtablewithsignage

BEAUTY PROS If you don’t already have a go-to stylist, I enlisted the help of Nicholas Harris for hair (@addiction2beauty) and Elsie Whyte for makeup (@elsiewhyte) – both great choices.

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The Roberts snapped photos at some favorite spots around their neighborhood RHODY WEDDING RESOURCES Even if your big day veers on the micro side, here’s a few details not to be overlooked – and local vendors to make it happen.

PICTURE PERFECT To make the day feel truly special, we made a photo map of spots that are special to us. Scenic and cityscape views are always stunning, but think of the everyday spots you love, too. On our map was East Side Wine & Spirits!

DRAMA-FREE DIY For unique thrifted centerpieces, we found vases at The Find on 6 in Johnston, and rented chairs for our outdoor venue from Let’s Party in Cumberland, which also offers rental tents, tables, balloons, and much more.

ENTERTAINMENT & AFTER PARTY Looking for a DJ to set the tone of the night, we went with Gibran B, who works for LOWKEY PVD and came with rave reviews from a friend. Guests are still talking about how amazing he was at following the pace of the night and really contributing to the ulti mate dance party feel (he even made an im promptu speech that had everyone in tears).

To finish up the night, we headed to The Malted Barley on Westminster for an afterpar ty filled with pretzels, beers, and games, and then ended the best day and night of our lives with a stay at The Dean Hotel.

HAPPILY EVER AFTER After months of planning, stress, and unknown factors (hello COVID part two), we couldn’t have asked for a better time celebrating our love in our favorite spots, using local vendors, and seeing ourselves reflected in every choice. Even planning a small wedding can be overwhelming, but with teamwork, an amazing support system, and a few Excel spreadsheets, your wedding dreams can become a reality. DJ Gibran B kept the vibe lively and celebratory at the reception held at Courtland Club

FINER POINTS For our invitations, we wanted to tell family and friends about the big day in a voice and design that sounded like us. We were lucky enough to work with Lois Harada from DWRI Letterpress, who walked us through color pal ettes and style, as well as wording. The result was a simple yet bold font that read, “EEEEK!

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The nice thing about a micro wedding is that you can get creative friends involved to help with DIY centerpieces, but for my bou quet, I wanted to bring in an expert. I de scribed the simple yet romantic vibe I was go ing for, and Angela Rotondo, owner of Bloom Back Flowers in Wayland Square, recom mended a cascading bouquet. She used pink and crimson tones to capture the feel of the day, and even made adorable complementary corsages and boutonnieres for the parents.

We are getting married!” (one of our common sayings throughout the wedding planning process!) on lovely blush-colored invites. Just because we were going small, that doesn’t mean details weren’t important – we opted for custom coasters from DWRI, too.

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H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 17 Like Oysters? A to open ‘em? 1 2 FAST, SAFE, EASY! Over 1 MILLION oysters opened without injury! Opens horizontally, keep juices in the shell Now ANYONE can open Oysters! 207-563-1146THEwww.awshucksoysteropener.com207-563-1146ULTIMATEGIFTFOROYSTERLOVERS•207-592-4775 207-592-4775 www.awshucksoysteropener.com YOUR PARTNER FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION • 463-7674 • MHI-RI.COM 65 MANCHESTER STREET, WEST WARWICK • 401-825-7670 Wed–Fri 10am-5pm Sat 10am-4pm | Sun 11am-4pm | Closed Mon & Tues FOR INFORMATION ON CONSIGNING VISIT OUR WEBSITE https://www.mikesestateservices.com/consign ONE OF NEW ENGLAND'S LARGEST CONSIGNMENT SHOPS Antique-To-Modern Art • Books • Collectibles • Electronics Furniture • Glassware • Kitchenware • Linens Musical Instruments • Pottery • Rugs Sterling Flatware & Holloware • Tools & more… TWO SQUARE28,000FLOORSFEET

FIDO OR FIDON’T Honesty is vital in any successful relation ship, so ask yourself: Is my dog a good match for a wedding party? Is he or she comfortable with crowds, unfamiliar locations, smells, un expected noises, and flash photography? Will your fur baby be okay being separated from you? Consider having a test run at the wed ding rehearsal to see how they react. Some people opt for a life-sized cut-out as a substi tute, or you can book a photoshoot with your fur family at a later date – paws layered upon hands displaying wedding bands is a simple yet touching pose. DOGGIE ESCORT You’ll need someone to be with your dog for better or for worse throughout the ceremony. Find a dedicated handler from a local pro fessional service, like Laurie Ruttenberg of Newport’s Lucky Dog Resort. Ruttenberg is a highly experienced class act and offers the added advantage of exercising the dogs prior (which helps get them in a calm and relaxed state) and offers overnight stays after so you are free to dance until dawn.

The bride and groom’s dog Nala, escorted by Laurie Ruttenberg of Lucky Dog Pet Resort

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PUP PRIMPING You’ve put a lot of thought into your wedding visuals and you want your pup to look their absolute best, too. Rhode Island groomers are often booked solid in the summer months, so it’s smart to make an appointment as soon as you set the wedding date. At a minimum you’ll want to coordinate your dog’s collar and leash with the wedding color palette (Fetch RI and Woof! Woof! have extensive ranges), and keep in mind that a harness will offer more control when handling an over-excited pup.

By Belinda Jones Take your dog on the ultimate walk – down the aisle – with the help of local services Wedding Tails

RHODY PET OF THE MONTH: ASH By Karen Kalunian Ash is dressed for any occasion with dapper gray and white fur and stunning emerald eyes. This buttonnosed kitty is a one-year-old domestic shorthair boy with a heart of gold. If you’re looking to invite a loving cat roommate into your home, Ash is ready to move in. You can meet him at the Heart of RI Animal Rescue League at 44 Worthington Road, Cranston during their open adoption hours Wednesday 3-7pm, Thursday and Friday 12-2pm, and Saturday 10am2pm. Or you can call 401-467-3670. Ash will be waiting to light up your life! If you have been thinking of adopting or know of an animal in need please contact Karen directly animaltalk1920@gmail.comat

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com18 NEWS & LIFE

FINISHING TOUCHES Doggie tuxedos, tutus, and flower garlands are popular accessories, but Mutt Butts of RI go one step further with head groomer Madeline Ingra ham offering to paint your dog’s toenails with safe vegan polish. If your dog has white or cream fur, she can even dip dye their tail to match! One final mouthwatering touch – The Mad Bee Bark ery & Boutique (an extension of Mutt Butts) bakes up hand-decorated wedding dog cookies in cheesy-bacon flavor, ideal for getting your dog to pose for wedding pics. The black bow-tie and bouquet designs also make memorable party fa vors for guests with dogs at home!

The Instagram hashtag #weddingdog may be nearing 100,000 picture-perfect posts, but before making the decision to include your four-legged friend in your wedding day, there’s a few factors to consider. Thankfully, if you say “I do” to the idea, there’s plenty of Rhody handlers, groomers, and more to take some of the stress out of the day.

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 19 Where every day is DOGTOPIA OF WARWICK 30 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick 401-903-4900 | Dogtopia.com/Warwick daycaretraininggrooming boarding “ ” When two people decide to get married, they are saying to one another “you are who I choose to spend the rest of my life with”. They are accepting each other for who they are as individuals. They see past each other’s flaws, because they know that together as a couple, they are perfect...” Imperfectly Perfect. – Nadia Sorvillo, Founder/CEO ImperfectlyPerfectWeddings@gmail.com • 508-410-2233 Photo by Karen Kalunian RHODY ROVER RESOURCES Read on for a directory of businesses ready to help make the big day extra special – for you and your four-legged friend. PET ATTENDANTS Furry Fellas , FurryFellasPetSitting.comstatewide, Lucky Dog Resort , Middletown, LuckyDogResortRI.com Mutt Butts of RI , Johnston, MuttButtsOfRI.com Woof RI , Rumford, WoofRI.com ACCESSORIES Fetch RI , Richmon, FetchRI.com Woof! Woof! , Bristol, WoofWoofBoutique.com The Mad Bee Barkery & Boutique , Johnston, MuttButtsOfRI.com

Sometimes what you wear under your dress is just as important as the dress it self, and this charming Main Street lin gerie boutique understands that. With undergarments and shapewear that ac commodate every shape and size, own er Gina Doorley – who has a degree in apparel design – and her team of pro fessionals offer customized fittings to find the right undergarments that work with each unique body type. The bou tique offers a range of styles, from ev eryday brands to designer and fashion choices. “Having properly fitted un dergarments is the key to making your clothes –and you – look and feel your best,” says Doorley. “Our goal is to make your lingerie buying, wardrobe prob lem-solving, and bra fitting experiences a pleasant one.” Don’t miss their exten sive selection of eye-popping lingerie –perfect to take on the honeymoon. A Fitting Experience 428 Main Street, East Greenwich 398-2639 • @afittingexperieinceRIFittingExperience.com

What it is: This hands-on lingerie boutique spe cializes in one-on-one professional bra fittings, high-quality undergarments, and sleep and loungewear. Where to find it: Located on Main Street in the heart of downtown East Greenwich. Look for the purple “Open” flag between Besos and Twisted Pizza. What makes it a Rhody Gem?

A ExperienceFitting

NEWS & LIFE

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Lingerie Boutique Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Elyse@ProvidenceOnline.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 21 MULCH MADE EASY Rhode Island Mulch Express Blower Services We provide and install mulch in a new and ef cient way. Our service blows the mulch directly into garden beds, saving homeowners and landscapers countless hours of work. 10 yard minimum per property rhodeislandmulch.com401-782-6000 Alicia 401-835-2605Reynolds areynolds@residentialproperties.com www.aliciareynoldsrealtor.com Rhode Island has over four hundred miles of shore. Call me today to claim your piece of the Ocean State!

By Megan Schmit Bridal Boom the return of and full-scale events, the industry bounces back bigger than ever

NEWS & LIFE

in-person

POLLY HUTCHISON, owner of Robin Hollow Farm

“Our crystal ball broke in March of 2020, so we just think in terms of what each client needs and how we can best serve them now.”

With

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“We are extremely fortunate here at Rob in Hollow,” Hutchison continues. “That said, the floral industry as a whole has been hit very hard, with vase and supply shortages as well as price increases that are much higher than the national average.” Because Robin Hollow grows many of their own flowers, they are able to con trol their quality and availability. Hutchison also credits her dedicated team, whom she is grateful for in such a tight labor market.

e’ve seen a 50 percent in crease in weddings since 2019,” says Nicole Mattiel lo, vice president of business development at Pranzi Catering & Events. Based in Providence, Pranzi began exclusively as a ca tering business back in 1997, but in 2018, dipped its toes into the rental business with Pranzi Tents & Events. Today, the company practically has it all: a large and growing inventory of rentals and decor, state-of-the-art tents, a catering team, inhouse pastry chefs, and even their own in-house floral services and design team. “With rentals, we are involved in over 150 weddings per month and we cater 50 weddings per month,” says Mattiello. “We have a wed ding all 12 months of the year now – there re ally is no more ‘wedding season.’” While bookings are a sweet relief after a pan demic-driven drought, the wedding industry fac es new challenges in an effort to keep up with the growing demand – the same struggles many are now all too familiar with: supply chain disrup tion, inflation, and staffing shortages. “We are doing the best we can.” In Pranzi’s case, Mattiello says separating the rental and catering ends of the business has helped, with inventory kept and stored in two warehouses located in Q uonset and West Warwick, and culinary goods coming from Providence. At the moment, their team consists of 75 em ployees in the rental company, and 200 in the catering, but Mattiello says, “We are currently employing the most staff we ever have in com pany history, and we are still hiring in every department for multiple positions.”

“We are doing our best to find ways to contin ue to make beautiful weddings happen for all of our clients,” says Hutchison.

Of course, there are ways the happy couple can help. “We have always encouraged clients to let us know the look and feel they are going for, any colors they particularly like, and let us make the appropriate flower choices that are seasonal,” Hutchison says. “Now more than ever communi cating that vision is important so that we can get you the best of what is available, and it gives us the freedom to make your dreams come to life.”

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Catering and rental companies aren’t the only ones feeling the heat this wedding season. Bridal shops are encountering longer-than-anticipated shipping of dresses, limousine companies are coping with the rising cost of gas, and available dates are dwindling. According to sources like The New York Times , 2022 is shaping up to be a bridal boom year – even for Little Rhody. “There’s a lot of amazing places to get married in our tiny little state, and as a floral designer, that is such a wonderful opportunity,” says Pol ly Hutchison, owner of Robin Hollow Farm in Saunderstown. She believes flowers make a wed ding – and not just because it’s their business. “The living colors and textures of flowers bring any space to life. Combine that with good de cisions around signage, decor, and the like, and your event will be gorgeous.”

As for Hutchison’s outlook for the industry moving forward? “Our crystal ball broke in March of 2020, so we just think in terms of what each client needs and how we can best serve them now.”

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When it comes to weddings, Matiello has a dual perspective, since she is also currently plan ning her own. “My best advice is to find a ven ue first and reserve early,” she instructs. “We are now closing off dates earlier than ever because the demand is so high, so I recommend as soon as you can to book a caterer or rental company.”

Robin Hollow’s niche in the wedding indus try is unique because of the fact it is a cut-flower farm, meaning its colorful blooms are planted, grown, picked, and fashioned into striking dis plays – all in the same place and, often, by the same hands. “Because of the broad nature of our business, ranging from home delivery through farmers markets and full-scale wedding decor, we are a bit of a unicorn in that we have folks who cross-train in farm tasks and design so that we can flex depending on the jobs at hand.

“We have a wedding all 12 months of the year now – there really is no more ‘wedding season.’” NICOLE MATTIELLO, Pranzi Catering & Events

571-722-2153 • Sarah@RICruisinCocktails.comRICruisinCocktails.com Let CocktailsBringUsthetoYou WEDDINGS • BIRTHDAYS • PARTIES • SPONSORED EVENTS Mobile Bar & CateringCustomServiceCraftCocktails

FOOD & DRINK In The Kitchen | Clambakes | Recipe | Desserts Celebrate your big day with a Little Rhody tradition – a lobster boil 28 Photo courtesy of Howarth Family Lobster

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com26 FOOD & DRINK

hen David and Tiago Gomes arrived in Rhode Island from their native Portugal in 2004, they got their first taste of the culinary world as dish washers at an Italian restaurant in Providence. “We were living the American dream, you know. Big pizzas, rap music, cool sneakers,” says Da vid. This is when the close-knit brothers – who are six years apart – began working together.

The restaurant grind, with its long hours and lack of benefits, began to wear on them and their young families. So they transitioned to cooking in a healthcare environment, working at an up scale retirement home. “We got benefits,” says David, who took Tiago with him to the new gig. A death in the family led to a fortuitous cir cumstance. David offered to make a soup for the family while they were in mourning, which led to a request for him to cook for the repast. At the end of the day, a family member handed him an unexpected envelope of money. When the shock wore off, he immediately called his younger sibling about opening up their own catering business. “I always loop my brother in,” he explains. “He’s the pragmatic one.”

“We had jobs,” says Tiago. “I said, we don’t need“Weit.”grew up very poor,” David explains. “We didn’t have access to things; we saw my dad struggling. When you grow up like that, just trying to survive, it’s hard to dream. It’s hard to have big goals.”

But David was persistent, seeing the possi bilities, so Tiago did the math – “I always look at the logistics,” he says. After a few months, Brother & Moffat was born. David grins. “I was like, let’s dream big. We have a good product. We have that foundation, so let’s do it.” They set up their commercial kitchen at Sanko fa Community Kitchen, a non-profit on the West Side focused on economic development, whose support the entrepreneurs found invaluable. Through word of mouth, their business began to build, going from working a 30-person event to catering a 200-strong backyard wedding.

While Brothers and Moffat are comfortable catering in any location – from white glove to casual – they really shine at outdoor weddings. Their grilled entrees are a big part of their grow ing following. From octopus to steak to ribs, the duo do more than dish out delicious food; they also offer a unique immersive experience for the guests, setting up their grill in the center of the

Sibling Revelry

The brothers behind Brother & Moffat bring an immersive food experience to catering

By Karen Greco Cooking on location, the Gomes brothers offer an immersive experience

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IN THE WEEKS LEADING UP TO THE BIG DAY schedules are packed and nerves frazzled. Outsourcing the cooking can be a great time saver. Brother & Moffat recently added healthfocused meal prep services to their culinary offerings. Their scratchmade meals are cooked fresh, in small batches, and never frozen.

“I wanted to impress a girl, so I would ask the chef, how do you make this? What do you do with that?” David says. The chef, impressed by their curiosity, began to give them small prep jobs in the kitchen. As they learned, they took on responsibility and “we just evolved from there.”

action. “We cook on location and put on a little show,” says David. “We interact with the guests, explain how we make things. We serve them. When you get our services, you don’t just get the food. You get the chefs.” Their scratch-made food receives rave reviews. They have invested in little to no marketing to grow their business, relying on happy customers to tell their friends and fam ily. It took them several years to even start an Instagram account, which they did when they branched out into meal prep services. David recently quit his day job as culinary director at an assisted living facility to focus 100 percent on growing Brother & Moffat. Meanwhile, the cautious Tiago is still hold ing on to his similar gig for a little bit longer. “Growing up, we were given a gold en ticket to do better, to be better, in the best country in the world,” says Da vid. “You know what? I believe Amer ica is the best country in the world.”

The Gomes brothers specialize in catering outdoor weddings

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FOOD & DRINK

In hosting intimate, outdoor lobster boil These quintessential Ocean State seafood catering experiences come fresh off the boat

For many businesses, it’s a family tradition, too. Now in the hands of third-generation bake master T.R. McGrath, McGrath Clambakes has been in business for 53 years, continuing on the tradition of bakes and lobster boils while also expanding to include other catering offerings. Yawgoo Bakes, founded by Pat Murray in 1961, remains a family-operated business to this day with her grandson Andy Patty now a bakemaster.

“A traditional old-fashioned clambake pro cess begins early in the day when we send our crews out to pick fresh rockweed, a dark green seaweed that contains bubbles filled with salt water,” says event and office manager Melissa McGrath of McGrath Clambakes & Catering. She describes the care that goes into building the bonfire with alternating layers of wood and rock, tending the fire to achieve a bed of very hot coals and rocks, and covering the base with mounds of rockweed – all unfolding at your venue while wedding festivities take place.

Howarth Family Lobsters is an extension of Ebben Howarth’s grandparents’ multi-gen erational lobstering business. “My boyfriend Ebben and I started our company last year with the intention of connecting the Block Island community to local seafood while supporting the small but valuable commer cial fishing industry out here,” says co-own er Maddy Murphy. “We are both residents of Block Island and carry a huge amount of re spect for the island and its resources.”

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Hot Rocks and Lobster Pots

f you elect to serve your guests a clambake or lobster boil on the big day, chances are good a few members of your catering team are out on the water while you and your wedding party are getting ready in the morning.

“The bubbles in the rockweed burst when heat ed, emitting seawater that steams and seasons the food,” McGrath continues. “At this point, the bakemaster works very quickly to capture as much heat as possible under the canvas.” Racks of food –artfully layered to ensure ideal cooking times and balanced flavoring – are expertly nestled inside and covered with layers of canvas. The whole process is part of a New England tradition dating back centuries. “A hot rock clambake is a unique experience,” says Lin Patty, event coordinator of Yawgoo Bakes and Barbe cues. “Many cultures have some kind of special ized cooking process involving hot rocks. The New England version comes from Native Amer ican tribes as far back as 2,000 years.”

By Abbie Lahmers

ISLANDER EXPERIENCE Get a taste of the freshness Howarth Family Lobsters is serving with a vis it to the island. “We attend the Sat urday farmers market on Block Island where we sell our famous bluefish pate, black sea bass ceviche, live lobsters, and cooked lobster meat. We sell out quick!” Maddy Murphy shares.

GREAT OUTDOORS All of Yawgoo Bakes’ menus can be brought to your location of choice or enjoyed on their sweeping Exeter facil ity on acres of fields and woods. “We also have two screened-in barn-like buildings allowing groups to enjoy our facility in any weather,” says Lin Patty. Catering Family Block Island

“A lot of our clients have incorporat ed a ‘How to eat a lobster’ instruction card as a favor,” says Melissa McGrath. “Others have created pails that include the wet nap, lobster crackers, bibs, etc.”

LOCAL BAKES AND BOILS B&M

OCEAN STATE DETAILS Give your guests the full Rhody seafood dining experience with ideas from the pros.

NEWPORT, RI ★★★ Accredited, hands-on career training in the marine trades & modern manufacturing since 1993 www.iyrs.edu

| Pawtucket ClambakeCo.com Howarth

Lobsters |

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 29 IYRS SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY & TRADES

HowarthFamilyLobsters.com Kempenaar’s Clambake Club Middletown, NewportClambakes.com McGrath Clambakes & Catering Newport, RIClambake.com Yawgoo Bakes and Barbecues | Exeter YawgooBakes.com Writing • Marketing Social Media • Photography Graphic Design Apply For Our Internship Programs Send résumé to elyse@providenceonline.com magazines?HAVE A PASSION FOR

LOBSTER INITIATION

Different bakemasters have different indica tors of when the bake is done. Yawgoo Bakes judges by checking a test potato – and once it’s ready, guests can dig into steamers and mussels served with melted butter. Their staff split and cut lobster claws for easier access. Tradition often dictates the ringing of a bell to open the bake, which McGrath Clambakes upholds. The bell tolls. Guests gather for the un veiling. “The layers of canvas are peeled away,” says McGrath. “Billows of steam rise from the bake, along with a surge of delicious aromas.” Followed by “oohs” and “ahhs,” the feast begins.

“A clambake wedding creates a local and casu al feel that’s very memorable for guests attend ing, especially if they have never experienced a clambake,” says McGrath, whose wedding pack ages are fully customizable. “A lobster baked in a clambake has a very distinct flavor and texture. The slow cooking process is similar to slow cook ing a pot roast where the meat falls apart and is very tender and has a bit of a smoky flavor.”

LobstersFamilyHowarthofcourtesyhotoP experiences, Murphy explains, “Our last stop before we arrive at our client’s home is the boat, where we take the lobsters right out of the water.” Fresh down to the flowers grown nearby at Harvest Moon Florals, the Howarth experience includes boiling 1 ¼ -pound lob sters right on the lawn, served with corn on the cob, potatoes, and a raw bar option with oysters from Great Salt Pond growers.

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inner menu, cake flavor, table decor, bottles of red and white are all accounted for – you may be thinking, what’s left? Not to be underestimat ed is a stunning signature cocktail befitting your theme and the season. Whether assembling yourself or work ing with your bartender or caterer, wow your guests with a crazy refresh ing sipper made with Ostreida Oyster Vodka from Industrious Spirits’ Com pany (ISCO), based in Providence. Perfect for a coastal-inspired or summer affair, the Tropical Ostreida Collins melds citrusy flavors with just the right touch of salinity and body for a satisfying, crushable cocktail that’s sure to please. In concocting this recipe, the team at ISCO did away with measurements to make it easy to scale the recipe. Mix up a big batch or offer it by the glass, your choice –though it’s so delicious that we defi nitely recommend going big! tone coastal the Team at ISCO

wedding By

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TROPICAL OSTREIDA COLLINS INGREDIENTS • 3 parts ISCO Ostreida Oyster Vodka • 1 part pineapple juice • 1 part passion fruit juice • 1 part lemon juice • Top with seltzer Add all ingredients to a tall glass over ice, and garnish with a pineapple wedge – plus pineapple fronds if you are feeling extra! A Signature Drink with Ocean Vibes The Tropical Ostreida Collins blends sweet with briny to set the

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 31 ServicingRhode Island ’s Propane needs for over 30 years! propaneplus.com 401- 885 - 4209 East Greenwich, RI Make every visit a memory-making adventure while helping protect wildlife and wild places. Tickets sold online only at rwpzoo.org rwpzoo.org MAKE WILD DISCOVERIES AT ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO DID YOU KNOW an elephant trunk is made up of 40,000 muscles

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10 bakers and makers offering creative confections for the centerpiece of your dessert table

DESSERT BAR

CAKE POPS Avoid the tradition of cake applied to face with dainty and scrumptious cake pops from Bake. Eat. Love. No fork or plate necessary! You, your significant other, and attendees can savor these bitesized treats on sticks, crafted with love by JWU grad Crystal Sparkman, that taste as incredible as they look. Pawtucket, BakeEatLo v eRI.com A donut wall by KNEAD Doughnuts

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com32 FOOD & DRINK here’s nothing like capping off a magical wedding cel ebration with some superb sweets. Many of these local bakers create traditional multi-tier cakes, but if you want to treat your guests to something a little different, here’s a few ways to put a delicious and delightful spin on the dessert course.

By Patty J Clara’s Cart brings frozen treats to a summer wedding

GOURMET APPLES How do you like them apples? Very much, thank you – if they’re from Amy’s Apples & Devilish Delights . These are not the messy treats you remember from childhood. Amy’s gourmet caramel apples are covered in choc olate (white, milk, or dark) and decorated to dazzle. For the kids-at-heart couple, there’s also dipped rice krispies, pretzels, Oreos, and more. Smithfield, AmysApples.com

Dessert buffets or bars are a popular twist on the old Italian tradition of hav ing a cookie tray table at the reception. I’m a fan because it’s always nice having options, and the folks at A Piece Of Cake just get it: cake pops, cookies, cup cakes, and how does a mini cherry pie sound? It’s a wonderful way for guests to satisfy their sweet tooth. Warwick, APieceOfCakeRI.com

Think Outside the (Cake) Box

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COOKIE STACK

Pretty-in-pink Portuguese bakeshop Victoria’s Sweets & Bakery makes amazing custom wed ding cakes, including a mouthwatering one fea turing alternating layers of cookie and frosting. Their stacked cookie cake is sure to make all your wedding dessert dreams crumb true. West War wick, Facebook: Victoria’s Sweets Can’t part with cake entirely? A small one surrounded by festive cupcakes from Silver Spoon Bakery is a must

FROZEN TREATS

Have your guests saying “ooh la la!” when they see a colorful (and delectable) macaron tower built by The Perfect Sweet Shoppe . Choose from four different sizes (including a three-tier version with a cake on top) and up to 12 differ ent flavors, or let guests bring home a tasty sou venir of the night with petite macaron favors. Warren, ThePerfectSweet.com

DONUT WALL

Though it started as a trend, it sure looks like the donut wall is here to stay. KNEAD Dough nuts and their crew are experts at bringing this eye-catching and delicious grab-and-go display to your big day. Schedule a tasting to create cus tom flavors – in full-sized, mini, or donut hole varieties – for your big day. Pro v idence, East Greenwich & Westerly, KNEADDoughnuts.com

Over 100 years in biz and counting, the iconic Scialo Bros Bakery in Federal Hill is your onestop shop for old-school Italian pastries and cook ies. Enlist their expertise when planning your post-ceremony feast, and they’ll put together trays of rainbow, butter, sprinkle, and almond cook ies and biscotti that would make anyone’s nonna proud. Pro v idence, Facebook: Scialo Bros Bakery

You can now bring the vintage charm of soda fountains to your wedding thanks to Clara’s Cart by Green Line Apothecary . Named for Clara Barton, the nurse who founded the American Red Cross, this fountain on wheels is stocked with their scratch-made ice cream and soda popsicles, motored over in their classic 1949 Chevy delivery van. Wakefield & Pro v idence, GreenLineApothecary.com

CUPCAKES Incorporate the cupcakes you love from Silver Spoon Bakery – the charming cafe and cocktail bar – into your wedding day. Choose from a vast list of flavors, from crowd-pleasing Cookie Dough to celebratory White Champagne (with bubbly icing), or design a menu to complement a theme or col or scheme. Gluten-free and vegan options are also available. East Greenwich, Silv erSpoonBakery.com

MACARON TOWER

ICE CREAM CAKE

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 33

ITALIAN COOKIES

Take your love of ice cream cake to the next level with a frozen confection from Udder Delights –a delicious chilly surprise especially for a summer wedding. Their cookies and cream is a customer favorite, but far from the only option, with plen ty of flavor combos and designs available, includ ing heart shaped, beach themed, and beyond. Co v entry & Cranston, UdderDelightsRI.com

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BY Pearl Farquharson L ooking for a destination wedding that checks all the boxes? With over 400 miles of breathtaking coastline, a vibrant culinary scene, and a plethora of trendsetting and diverse vendors to support your day, this special region is in a league of its own. We’re talking about Rhode Island – our home sweet home has consistently been named a popular haven to host the ultimate experience by couples across the nation and beyond. If you’re considering hosting your wedding in Little Rhody, we’ve compiled reasons why this location hails second to none to realize your vision for the most memorable affair.

Rhode Islan

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DESTINATION:

With a vibrant culinary culture, stunning venues, and a backdrop of coastline, there are so rightsayreasonsmanyto“Ido”here

DelsiebyDesignedcourtesyPhotography,HopeCharitybyPhoto PRO TIP:dress expense “To me the bride’s gown is a high priority. Do some research to set your budget goals before you start going on appointments. Never think of it as a one shot waste of money; it’s an heirloom and should look amazing for your photos. An ill-fitting or poorly made gown will look that way in photos forever.” DESIGNER HARPER DELLA PIANA Seams Couture OceanCliff is a hotel and banquet facility that sits on 10 acres of oceanfront property in Newport

Although Rhode Island may be the smallest state, it packs a big punch as a gastronomic mecca for world class chefs. Noted as the home to Johnson and Wales University, one of the best culinary schools in the nation, there is no shortage of talented food connoisseurs and caterers that will be sure to curate the perfect menu for your special day. As you begin to design your wedding day menu, consider incorporating quintessential Rhody favorites. Think artful presentations of playful comfort foods, such as Easy Enter taining’s clam cakes and chowder for cocktail hour. Based in Providence, their commitment to purchasing from farms within a 150-mile radius also helps to support local businesses while cultivating sustainability practices – a win-win for your tastebuds, core values, and investment.

CULINARYCULTURE

Watermelon gazpacho shooters infuse a summer cocktail hour with chill vibes and bright color Easy Entertaining's clam cakes and chowder are a winning combo for adding RI flavor

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Soul CateringDistinguishM.ofinflavormeetfavoritesfoodLiberianprofilesthemenuchefJessicaZeon’s

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“Working with a local maker for favors, catering, a cake, or any number of items that lend a special Rhode Island touch is perfect for the event and terrific for our food economy,” says Lisa Raiola, founder of food business hub, Hope & Main in Warren. “Hope & Main members love these assignments and care deeply about the result as a reflection of their commitment to this market. Their connections and clients are local, and this work is their bread and butter!” If you prefer a more bold and culturally infused culinary approach, check out Distinguish Catering in PVD. Chef Jessica M. Zeon takes pride in fus ing bold flavors of Afro-Caribbean Soul Food with regional favorites, resulting in a memorable dining experience for your guests.

TREND TALK: grand exit “If you’re looking for something that will excite your guests and give them something new to talk about at cocktail hour, an antique car from Newport Classic Cars is just the thing.” WEDDING PLANNER PEARL FAR Q UHARSON Designed by Delsie A cool twosome ready to drive off in a '66 Mustang from Newport Classic Cars

SHOWRHODYOFF

For guests traveling to Rhode Island, consider creating a list of special points of interest for them to experience. If time allows, enjoy playing tour guide. Begin with a morning in pastoral Little Compton of socializing with goats over yoga at Simmons Farm, followed by brunch and a wine tasting at Newport Vineyards. Perhaps you prefer to soak in the sun on Newport’s Second Beach with stuffies from Flo’s Clam Shack and a side of Del’s, followed by shopping at commer cial streets throughout the City by the Sea (Thames, Spring, America’s Cup, Bowen’s and Bannister’s wharfs, and more). For guests staying in PVD, a leisurely ride with Providence Gondola, shop ping for rare finds at Geri’s Bluffing Boutique, followed by dining out on Federal Hill are popular attractions for tourists and locals alike, or wander the exhibit halls of the RISD Museum. For more ideas, visit HeyRhody.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER RACHEL ROBINSON Robinson Press Fine Stationery

Photos courtesy of Rachel Robinson Press

PIANA, Seams Couture

“My biggest piece of advice for anyone planning a wedding is to send a paper invitation, not digital. The invitation is the first interaction your guests have with your wedding day – it should set the tone for the day and build excitement. There is something so special and rare about receiving a beautiful envelope in the mail.”

PRO TIP:budget

PRO - TIP: paper

“My biggest advice is that all parties involved should have a realistic budget talk together. Make a list of the most important things and the least. Also be flexible with that budget because unforeseen things may come up during planning.”

Photo by Mac Olink, courtesy of Sascha Roberts

PRO TIP:udget

“My biggest advice is that all parties involved should have a realistic budget talk together. Make a list of the most important things and the unforeseen things may come up during planning.”

PIANA Seams Couture

HARPERDESIGNERDELLA

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Floral Arrangements by Town House Flowers Inc

Selecting the perfect wedding venue is one of the most important decisions couples will make during the wedding planning process. The space will set the tone of the experience. Whether you are a wine enthusiast and envi sion your day in the vineyards of Shepherd’s Run in South Kingstown, or perhaps your mutual love for books and European archi tecture propels you to consider a city-chic wedding at the Providence Public Library or The Ballroom at Providence G, each site has its special unique features that add so much character to the experience. “Our little state packs a lot into a small space!” says Susanne Day, director of OceanCliff at Newport Experience. “Some of my couples are looking for something unique and personal. I love suggesting a grand entrance by boat at our Regatta Place venue located on the docks of the Goat Is land Marina with stunning views of New port Harbor. This venue is ideal for couples that love a private-feeling space that is also conveniently located to all the fun spots near downtown Newport.”

The arch at Newport's Castle Hill Inn is ready to be adorned with florals

STUNNINGVENUES

TREND TALK: pets

For the Love of Paws in Cranston provides the ultimate pup-concierge service with trainers that will not only care for your pet, but also provide styling services, aisle etiquette, and a personal driver for your pet. For dinner service, hire Pavlov’s Treat Truck to whip up the best doggie dishes, which include spaghetti and meatballs. Here’s an idea that takes the cake – commission West Warwick’s NoLees Custom Cakes to carve an entire cake in honor of your dog: a true work of art. For more tips on including your pet in your vows, see Rhody Pets on page 18.

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 43 Wedding & Gift Registry W ENDY B HOMEROWN 190 WAYLAND AVENUE PROVIDENCE WENDYBROWNHOME.COM WENDYBROWNHOME PRO TIP: flowers “My biggest piece of advice would be to contrast your colors – it creates more of a pop and brings your celebration to life. Purples with magenta, white with hot pink, blue with pink!” FLORAL DESIGNER ANGELA ROTONDO Bloom Back Flowers, LLC

WEDDING PLANNER PEARL FAR Q UHARSON Designed by Delsie

Jamal Burley of Jamal and Lashana Photography agrees. “As Rhode Island wedding photographers, we stand firm that this state has a lot to offer for anyone seeking the dreamiest seaside wedding in America. We feel very privileged. People from all over the country seek Rhode Island as their desti nation wedding location and it’s for good reason! Its rich history and welcoming atmosphere are enough to make you want to stay.”

Planning & Design: DEFINED LUXE EVENTS, Sabrina Florist: BOTANICA WEDDING FLOWERS, Gita Venue: QUEEN ANNE'S LOFT, Amanda Bridal Gown: LYRA VEGA BRIDAL, Lilian Rentals: DEZ COLLECTIVE, Juliana Photography & Videography: IN OUR IMAGE PHOTOS: Rina, Dom, & Darrell

TREND TALK: cakes

TREND TALK: color “Clients are looking for complementary color palettes – dusty blue with creamy yellows and peach, emerald green, rich purple, and ruby red. I’ve also been seeing an early trend of monochrome and ombre color palettes. It can make using whites and neutrals feel very fresh when layering variations and textures.”

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“I’m definitely seeing two trends right now with my 2022-2023 couples. On one hand, you have the minimal and modern take on traditional all-white cakes, typically by using subtle textures, square styles instead of circular, and floral placements. On the other hand, one of the more popular trends I’m seeing is non-traditional wedding cakes. It’s so refreshing to see couples not only interested in, but open to experimenting with different shapes, colors, and elements for their special day.”

CAKE DESIGNER NICOLE GOMES Ninth Cake

Every love story is unique! At Alpine, we believe that every celebration should be too That is why we only host one carefully crafted wedding per day, yours! Our dedicated team will work with you hand in hand to tailor every last detail of your wedding experience. It is our passion to turn your dream into a reality! Alpine has consistently been awarded Couple’s Choice awards and Best of Weddings by Wedding Wire and The Knot. Reviews rave about our food, atmosphere and five-star service. Come and see for yourself why we are proud to remain one of Rhode Island’s top wedding venues! 251 Pippin Orchard Road, Cranston 401-943-2670 • AlpineCC.com

Let’s begin planning your ceremony! Caren Mendez Wedding O iciant • 401-837-1604 Non-denominational wedding officiant Exceeding wedding expectations for over ten years! Serving Rhode Island & Massachusetts, also available for destination weddings Performing ceremonies in English, Spanish, or bilingual @weddingsbycaren

ADVICE & STYLE Artist | Influencer | Custom Fit | Dress Trend A reception held at The Graduate, Providence captured in oils Painting by Mark DeSilva 48

A Barrington artist live-paints the big day with oils

By Ken Abrams

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Like a wedding photographer, DeSilva is hired by the couple and meets with them to make plans before the big day. “I encourage couples to look at the gallery on my website and see what scene they’d like me to paint. Anything they can imagine, I can do.” He notes that the first dance is the most common request, with the ceremony being a close second. “Couples can select what moment of the ceremony… maybe the first kiss or when they’re walking back up the aisle.” DeSilva practices styles that range from Impressionism to grand portraiture. His influences include Mattise, Sargent, and Monet. He completes most of his work on site, socializing with wedding-goers while he paints the scene. “Using oil is my biggest connection to history; a lot of wedding painters today use acrylic. I grew up using oil, which is tested to last centuries,” explains DeSilva.

The Wedding Painter

DeSilvaMarkbyPainting

A wedding at Warwick Aldrich Mansion –DeSilva paints in the midst of the festivities

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com48 ADVICE & STYLE

hroughout most of recorded history, weddings have been memorialized through works of fine art. The oldest known wedding painting, the popular Arnolfini Portrait , was completed in 1434 by Dutch Renaissance artist Jan van Eyck. Like vinyl records and black-and-white photography, this art form is making a return with Barrington artist Mark DeSilva leading the way. “As far as I know, I’m the only one in operation in Rhode Island, but there are more and more every year,” says DeSilva who’s been doing this professionally since 2009 and is busy most weekends. “There are painters around New York City who have been doing it longer than me; there are also people in California and the southern states.”

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 49 Visit CoastalQueenCruises.com/private-chartersorCall(401)423-9900x1 Book Your Private Event with Coastal Queen A Perfect Waterfront Wedding AT THE Herreshoff Marine Museum in Bristol, Rhode Island  Events from 50 to 250 guests   Booking available for 2023   Rental fee includes tables & chairs  herreshoff.org/weddings ✴ events@herreshoff.org

A painted portrait seems especially fitting when the venue is Gilded Age mansion, Rosecliff in Newport

DeSilva shares that most often couples want to have the wedding party and their families appear in the completed work, even if he has to repaint history slightly. “I may look through the photos I took during their first dance and maybe not everyone is visible. So, often they send me photos to identify who they’d like to see recognized in the background. I think I’ve added up to 35 recognizable people. And I think that’s what makes my service unique,” adds DeSilva. The artist travels anywhere his services are needed, including to Cincinnati on a recent weekend. He’s done weddings at picturesque New England locations like Bar Harbor as well as faraway spots, from Los Angeles to Orlando. “Most often, I’m in Newport and I do a lot of weddings in New York and Boston as well,” notes DeSilva. Learn more at MarkDeSil v aWeddingPainter.com

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“I get all the background done and then typically have the bride and the groom completed as well,” he says. “It’s the really fine details that I need to take home to finish, like the wine glasses on the tables, or the detail on the bride’s dress, which takes layers of oil paint. I have to let the layers dry, but the vision is complete; everything is in place at the wedding.”

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 51 Mrs.FineRobinsonLingerie 180 Wayland Ave. shopmrsrobinson.comProvidence|831-7740 Where Style & Tradition say, ‘I do’ A New England Tradition for 60 Years Mystic Knotwork Visit Us In Downtown Mystic 25 Cottrell St. • 2 Holmes St. • 860.889.3793 open 7 days or shop online MysticKnotwork.com EssentialsWeddingNautical Custom Design Bridal & Antique Gown Restoration By www.SeamsCouture.comAppointment PHOTO BY JASON WESSEL oRhodeIsland.comJANUARY 2022 New Year Must-Do’s • This Month’s Rhody Gem LOCAL EXPERTS UNCOVERTHE BENEFITS OF REST Sleep THE POWER OF PLUS: FINANCIALGUIDE CITY WATERWAY STORIES | ART LEADERS' LEGACIES | MEDITERRANEAN MEZZE Your ThisMust-Do'sAugustMonth'sRhodyGem LOCAL CHEFS TAKE A NEW ENGLAND APPROACH TO LOCALSMOKEDSOUTHERN-STYLEMEATSCHEFSTAKEANEWENGLANDAPPROACHTOSOUTHERN-STYLESMOKEDMEATS BBQBBQ Summer JANUARY2022FREE NEW THERAPIES | BEAUTY PRODUCTS | JUICE BAR CRAWL | YOUR NEW YEAR’S MUST-DO’S oalsReach Your From aerobics to Zumba,boutique gyms aroundthe state are readyto help make thoseresolutions stick FREE EP SALON FOR CURLS • WRITING RETREAT IN BRISTOL • TIVERTON-MADE TONICS MARCH 2022 TheBayMagazine.com spring HOME GARDEN& ISSUE spring HOME ISSUE From local goods and resources to tips for calling the pros, everything you need to refresh in style local toeverythingstyle PLUS: Meet the Leading Ladies of 2022 ONLY $3 per issue! Subscribe today and get 12 issues for just $36! Get Rhode Island’s family of award-winning premier lifestyle magazines Providence Monthly, The Bay, SO Rhode Island, and Hey Rhody delivered! All magazines are available for subscription. Never worry about missing an issue again while supporting local stories! HeyRhody.com/MailToYou STORIESRHODY DELIVERED

Growing up, my mom was very into photography. She had a giant chest filled with printed photographs, and I always loved going through them. She always bought me disposable cameras to play with, but when I got my first job in high school, I decided I wanted to buy my own camera and recreate all the photos I’d always loved seeing. I began taking photos of my classmates for their senior portraits and my love for it never stopped!

You’ve recently started First Look Decor, a service for renting trendy wedding accessories. What prompted this and what do you offer? My fiance Justin and I just started First Look and we are incredibly excited. I am a person that loves to collect vintage and cool items for my home – it’s my favorite hobby. We don’t have a big basement to store everything we want for our wedding, so we thought, how nice would it be to just pick everything you could possibly want for your event in a catalog and be able to return it after? We offer anything from a table napkin to a donut wall! A little bird told us you are walking down the aisle soon. Any advice for newly engaged couples starting to plan their big day? I’m not going to lie, even being in the industry, it’s daunting. My advice is to take your time. Don’t overwhelm yourself. And especially, don’t let anyone else dictate what your wedding should and should not be. It’s all about you and your partner! What’s your favorite type of photo to take at a wedding and why? I honestly don’t think there’s anything better than a candid photo. Don’t get me wrong, you can get some amazing photos posing people and getting the light just right. But personally, I think it’s best when a couple can look back on a photo and recall the moment and either laugh, smile, or end up with a nice little happy tear. Learn more at JackAaalack.com

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What made you gravitate towards photography in the first place?

Meet Jacquelina Paiva

An ownpreparingdoesbusyeverythingspiritentrepreneurialrunsthroughthisphotographer–evenwhileforherwedding

By Sascha Roberts

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What is your number one tip for couples for posing, so they feel comfortable and confident? Find a photographer that feels like a friend. You’re going to be spending your entire day with this person, so if you don’t feel 1,000 percent comfortable with the person after your engagement photos, keep looking! The right fit is out there.

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 53 YOUR ONE-STOP-SHOP for We ing F avo 10 Sims Avenue, Unit 112 Providence • 439-1517 8 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport • 619-1044 Shop Online at ANCHORTOFFEE.COM Embrace Home Loans, Inc. NMLS ID # 2184; 25 Enterprise Center, Middletown, RI 02842, Phone 800.333.3004, www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org; Rhode Island Licensed Mortgage Lender & Broker. As a lifelong Rhode Island resident, Jon will help you navigate the local market and fnd the right mortgage products, whether you’re looking to purchase or refnance. Jon Bellemore Sales Manager | NMLS ID # 1406741 c: 401.529.4482 | ph: 800.333.3004 x3416 embracehomeloans.com/jonathan-bellemorejbellemore@embracehomeloans.com Embrace the future with help from your local lender. Lic in AL, AZ, CA, CT, DC, FL, GA, IA, IN, LA, MA, MD, ME, MN, MS, NC, ND, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI Scan the QR code to learn more. LOVE AT FIRST BITE Creative American Cuisine 771 Hope Street, Providence • 331-4100 DINNER Wed-Sun: 4pm–9:30pm BRUNCH Sat-Sun: 10am-2pm SundayBrunch 10am-2pm

Well Suited The importance of having a tailor ensure your attire is the proper fit By Elyse Major Sport coat custom made by Marc Allen of Loro Piana fabric GLOSSARY Bespoke: Clothing that is custommade to your specifications Haberdasher: One who deals in men’s clothing and accessories Milliner: A maker or seller of hats Seamster: One employed at sewing Tailor: A person who makes or alters garments to fit

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e’ve all heard “Here comes the bride, all dressed in white,” “Say yes to the dress,” “If the shoe fits.” But what about the suit? Unless you’re eloping with your dad’s old sport coat, anyone donning a jacket and pants will want to look as put together as their betrothed. This is where a tailor comes into play – they alter a garment to fit you. Until you actually require the services of a tailor, your only encounter may be characters in fairy tales, but they’re very real (as are cobblers) and once you’ve commissioned their expertise, you just might be hooked. For most, you are likely purchasing off the rack, which means, as it implies, directly off the clothing rack at a store. Colin Ward, manager at Marc Allen in Providence says that while fabric is important, construction is key to having something that fits well and will last a long time. When trying on suits, “make sure the shoulders fit,” says Ward. “They can’t be made larger, and it is very expensive and time consuming to recut them. The jacket length really can’t be changed much without mak ing it look off balance.” If you’re deciding between sizes, opt for the larger to provide the tailor with more fabric to work with.

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H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 55 Vacation in the Heart of Maine! 2 Inns, 11 cottages, 3 restaurants with lots of choices, Donald Ross championship 18-hole golf course, grass tennis courts, driving range, mini golf, disc golf, swimming pool, hiking trails, museums, entertainment & much more! Oxford casino only 6 miles! MUST BE AT LEAST 21 TO GAMBLE. PLEASE GAMBLE RESPONSIBLY. Open May-October. Kids 12 & under stay FREE in the same Poland Spring Resort For Info & Reservations: 207-998-4351 www.PolandSpringResort.com Maine’s Best StressVacationFree T AKE I T T O T HE B RIDGE B AND . COM Hosted by Nick DelGiudice & Sascha Roberts A deep dive into the Ocean State. Taking a granular look into the people, places and everything in between that inspire such big love for the smallest state! AVAILABLE ON YOUR LISTENPODCASTFAVORITEAPP!NOW!

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MADE TO ORDER A bespoke designer crafts bridal apparel unique to you By Karen Greco Think custom gowns are only for Hollywood stars or members of the Royal Family? Rhody brides can be the star of their own film-worthy wedding with a custom dress from Seams Couture in Providence. Designer and couturiere Harper Della-Piana works one-on-one with clients to create a one-of-a-kind dress or bridal suit that showcases each person’s unique sense of style. Or, Della-Piana can upcycle a cherished vintage gown for its new debut. Della-Piana has over 40 years of experience handcrafting costumes and gowns for the film, television, and theater industries (she’s even sewn for the exacting Martha Stewart and her magazine). All of her unique designs are crafted at her private atelier — from conception to final stitch — right here in Rhode Island, using local tailoring talents to help her craft the wedding dress of your dreams. The process begins with a consultation, followed by a sketch that evolves until the client falls in love with the design. Then fabric is chosen right at the atelier. The first fitting is with muslin, which serves as the pattern. This is where details can be changed and honed. At the second fitting, you will step into your actual dress. Della-Piana says to expect the process to take three to five sittings, allowing for two hours each. Her custom-fit, made-to-measure pieces are all hand-sewn, both inside and out, with attention to detail given to each stitch, bead, and other design flourishes. Given the handcrafted nature, her couture is shockingly affordable. Gowns begin at $3,000; women’s suits start at $2,000. At Della-Piana’s LGBTQIA+ inclusive atelier, everyone is welcome. Are you a misfit bride, whose style leans more adventurous? Or a Bridgerton fan, who’d like a Regency reproduction for your wedding? Della-Piana embraces the quirk with enthusiastic creative support. “No two brides are alike and true couture reflects that,” she explains. “Appointments are private and one-on-one and our gowns are not off the rack to buy like a bridal store, but made to order so you get to watch it evolve.” SeamsCouture.com

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“Most things can be taken in to a good degree. But not everything can be let out,” explains Ward. With so many wedding details loom ing ahead, start by searching for a tai lor that is convenient to you as you’ll be visiting at least twice. This may mean near home, near work, or close to the venue. Some tailors have their own shops; sometimes it’s a service available at a store, like Marc Allen, or a dry cleaner and only offered certains days and times. To best prepare for your appoint ment, bring or wear a shirt and tie, and be sure to have the shoes you plan to wear on the big day so that the tailor can ensure the proper drape, which means how the fabric falls at your feet. Of course, wear a smile.

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 57 20 VETERANS MEMORIAL DRIVE WARWICK | GLOBALEXCELLENCETRAVEL.COM LET US HELP YOU EVENING & SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE 800-339-3600 OR MONDAY-FRIDAY401-732-80808AM-6PM Let a Certified Planner help with all the details. Save time, save money! Call the travel experts at Global Excellence Travel. Ask about our Free Honeymoon Registry! DESTINATION ANNIVERSARYHONEYMOONSWEDDINGSCELEBRATIONS&ROMANTICGETAWAYS! find your Paradise!find your Paradise! 28 Audrey WoodLICENSED AESTHETICIAN BE FABULOUS & GLOWING FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY 710 Aquidneck Avenue, AudreyWoodAesthetician.comMiddletown OFFERING HYDRAFACIALS & NON-SURGICAL LIFTS CALL 401-847-0527 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT!

e’ve all been there – you’re excited for a friend to get married, but the thought of spending a ton of cash on another cookie-cutter, ill-fitting gown you’ll literally never wear again really puts a damper on the good vibes. Enter, the mismatched dress trend. Though the pick-yourstyle dress option has been around for ages now – in which your party can choose from halter, spaghetti strap, cap sleeve, etc. – a new idea was born. What if, instead of having to buy a specific color from a specific store with a specific designer, the nearlyweds give some minimal guidance and then let you actually pick an outfit you love from anywhere you want? Yes, please! So how does this work? The couple will often provide a color palette, length preference, and pattern specification and then you, the attendant, can go to any store you like, with any budget you have, and choose a look that makes you feel good. Bonus, since it’s completely your cup of tea, you can actually Match Game

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H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com58 ADVICE & STYLE

By Erin McGinn

How permitting attendants to choose their own attire can result in them feeling more vested than invested in your big day

Like fabrics and patterns are essential masteringdenominatorscommontomixing

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 59 Learn more: PVDairport.com LOS ANGELES coast to coast nonstop service from PVD on Breeze Airways 473 Hope Street, Bristol 401-253-9460 • CaronJewelers.com CARON JEWELERS YOUR TRUSTED FAMILY JEWELER SINCE 1956 WE DESIGNERS’WELCOMESUGGESTIONS At Caron Jewelers, we've helped four generations of couples choose that special ring Let us guide you in exploring and realizing your dream

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com60 ADVICE & STYLE An all-white palette with feelthatandassatin,choices,differentiateusedthissuggestedlandscapeautumntoMutedJulythestaythefromdressestea-lengthofanystyleanystoreletweddingpartycoolduringhotandhumidweathertoneschosenmatchtheseasideweretocrew,whotexturetotheirlikevelvet,andchiffon,wellaslengthssleeveoptionsmadethemtheirbest

Blue and white works in October, too, and floralfromblue,fromallendedprivateweddingfriendswasofTheprivatethethekeeplongerattendantssomechosesleevestowarmwhenwindsblewoveroceanforthisestatesoireesimplepaletteblueandwhitegiventotheseforacoastalatahome.Theyupchoosingdifferentshadesazuretodustyandpatternswhimsicaltotosolid

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 61 wear it again. It’s a win-win for everyone involved and the results are spectacular. With cottagecore being all the rage, floral patterns are a popular option in the mismatched trend. Blue and white also remain a top color choice for many coastal Rhode Island couples, but more and more are choosing to broaden the palette to include more than just one or two colors: think peppering in a natural sage green for summer or muted mustard tones with deep emerald for fall. Mixing in suits in a corresponding color or pattern for those attendants who prefer not to wear a dress is a perfect addition. When all your friends are in a row, with flowers mixed in bringing it all together, the feeling is cohesive, cool, and of course, eclectic. This trend has gotten so hot, some attendants are actually exchanging attire with each other after the event to wear in other friends’ weddings, getting more bang for their buck and freshening up the look without the added cost, aside from a quick trip to the dry cleaner. Let’s face it, weddings are an investment to be a part of these days, from destination pre-parties and purchasing gifts for the shower and wedding day to traveling and accommodations for a weekend of events. Having the option to save a bit can be helpful for everyone!

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H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com62 SAYCOUNTYSOUTHIN DoI 140 Point Judith Road • Narragansett 792.9309 • cigarboxltd.com AT MARINER SQUARE Everyone Loves a Good Smoke Celebrating 23 years! Lighting a good cigar adds a small memorable pleasure to a great celebration… Let us help you choose the right one. Also, a great way to say thank you to the groomsmen 32 HIGH STREET * WESTERLY * 401.596.1499 Enjoy a stress-free dress shopping experience 12 Southwest Avenue, Jamestown 423-0050 • secretgardenri@gmail.comthesecretgardenjamestown.com Now Open 13 Narragansett Avenue Jamestown beechjt.com info@beechjt.com 401-560-4051 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK AT 4PM BRUNCH COMING SOON | SAT & SUN 10AM-2PM ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS FOR PRIVATE EVENTS 22 A Pier Marketplace, Narraganse 401.477.0014 • ExquisiteSkin.care TRASH THE DRESS, BUT PAMPER YOUR FACE Enjoy A Luxurious Spa Facial & Get Ready For Your Special Day

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com COUNTYSOUTHINSAY IDo @ACCESSORIESBYCHARLOTTE ACCESSORIES & JEWELRY • HANDBAGS SLEEPWEAR & LOUNGEWEAR • LOCATED INSIDE STORE FOUR • 673 Kingstown Road, Wakefeld • AccessoriesByCharlotte.com Tuesdays-Saturdays 10AM-5PM or by appointment call 401.662.7868 Take A Bite Out Of Rhode Island!! Book Today!!ROSEISLAND.ORG • 401-847-4242 The RomanticUltimateWedding Step Back In Time Rose Island L ighthouse O WAKEFIELD • 401.783.4433 | GARDEN CITY • 401.942.2720 SWEENORSCHOCOLATES.COM Make A Swee Impression WELCOMEWEDDINGSSHOWERSBAGSWehaveavarietyofboxfavoroptionsorcustommoldednoveltiestofityourbudget Stop by either store, call to speak to a sales associate or email info@sweenorschocolates.com H o m e D e c o r & A c c e s s o r i e s w w w b a c k y a r d b e a c h d e c o r c o m H a n d c r a f t e d F r o m L o c a l O y s t e r S h e l l s W e d d i n g C o l l e c t i o n C r e a t i v e a n d p e r s o n a l w e d d i n g g i f t s , b r i d e s m a i d g i f t s e n g a g e m e n t g i f t s a n d g u e s t F a v o r s

No chicken dance? No line dances? No problem! DJs | Lighting | Photo Booths | Lawn Games Blueflash Photography George Street Photography Hilary B Photography

GOODS & GIFTS Shop | Grooming | Rhody Reads | Calendar Serve in style with metalwork handcrafted in Warren Photo courtesy of Beehive Handmade 66

hen planning a wedding, there’s so much focus on the big things (the dress, the venue, the cake), but it’s often the smallest of details that make any event special and memorable. All over Rhode Island, artists and creative small businesses are ready to answer the call of making custom pieces for your celebration. The best part about these items is that they are personal to the couple and are sure to remain treasured keepsakes for many years to come.

Something New By Elyse Major GOODS & GIFTS CALLIGRAPHED SHELL PLACE CARDS JaneScribe.com ENGRAVED BOTTLE TheEngravedBottle.com ANCHOR WEDDING PLATE PrimaveraNewport.com ANNIVERSARY JOURNAL RagAndBoneBindery.com INITIALS NECKLACE Haverhill.com HERITAGE CAKE SERVER BeehiveHandmade.com W Rhody makers are ready to create items unique to you LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK BRACELET LucaDanni.com CUSTOM INITIAL RING DISH Etsy: Nasseramics

67 401PartyDJ.com • 401.769.1325 x26 DJS • GAME SHOWS KARAOKE • PHOTO BOOTHS MUSIC BINGO • TRIVIA

GOODS & GIFTS GroomedPerfectly Look dapper from “I do” to dusk with these six product picks By Jackie Ignall TIP: Products are ideal for wedding bathroom baskets

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 69 our wedding is one of the most im portant days of your life. Even seem ingly low-maintenance groomsto-be should stock up on the right products that will leave you wedding-photo ready. These six locally made products, from a refreshing hard-milled soap to luxury shaving tools, are sure to leave gents clean, fresh-faced, and ready for not only the big event but happily ever after.

BEARD BUTTER Beards come in all shapes and styles, and Soulita’s Beard Butter with raw cocoa but ter provides extra hold without added stiff ness. In addition, it keeps flyaways and frizz in-check while not weighing hair down. Did we mention no dyes, organic, vegan, and eco-friendly? Find at Soulita, Pro v idence BEARD OIL Keep your whiskers looking and smelling good with Bob’s Big Beard Oil, which con tains a mix of sweet almond, grapeseed and argan oils, and nourishing vitamin E. A few drops keeps scruff soft while moisturizing skin underneath. Available in Cliff Walk, Smooth Sailing, and Summer Mountain. Find at Newport Seafoam Trading, Newport CLOSE SHAVE Skip the barber appointment and get an ul tra-smooth shave in the comfort of your own home with a restored vintage or new razor from Foster-based Griffith Shaving Goods. All razors arrive in shave-ready condition and start at $89 depending on the type of blade and handle. Shop online at GriffithShavingGoods.com

FACE CREAM Give skin extra TLC with this new face cream specifically formulated for men. Just a dab of Bro Hydraglow Facial Moisturiz er addresses fine lines and wrinkles, pore size, and in-grown hairs thanks to vitamin C, gentle alpha hydroxy acids, and salicyl ic acid from white willow tree bark. Find at The Peyton Co., Warren FRESH SCENT No matter the venue, outdoorsy grooms will love the fresh scent of Lightfoot’s Pine Soap. Made in Rhode Island, this hand-milled, all-natural soap evokes walking through a pine grove and keeps skin moisturized all day. Bo nus: it lasts in your soap dish without dissolv ing. Find at Beauty and the Bath, Wickford HAND SCRUB Get your mitts in tip-top shape for those closeup hand-holding photos by incorporating Mackenzie’s Fisherman Hand Scrub into your routine. This high-performing product exfoli ates dead skin and cleanses with finely ground walnut husk, lemon essential oils, and moistur izing cocoa butter, leaving hands smooth and soft. Find at Blount Market, Warren Griffith Shaving Goods specializes in wet shaving products

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T It’s Love, Rhode Island Style with These Six Picks By Hugh Minor

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com70 GOODS & GIFTS his month’s selections are in spired by the themes of love and marriage and they’re all brought to you by authors connected to Rhode Island. Take a look and feel the feels, and don’t forget to stop by your local bookstore to pick up your copy. Pro-tip: books make great wedding gifts! Nuptials are the new family business in A Jingle Valley Wedding by West War wick’s own Martha Reynolds. Julie Tate leaves her high-powered New York City executive job, returning to the failing family farm to – hopefully – turn it into a successful new wedding venue. With a little help from her friends, can she make it work? Perhaps there’s even a chance for Julie to find romance along the way. Love is in the air when Marie takes her Italian family to the Caribbean in Mari SanGiovanni’s Greetings from Jamaica, Wish You Were Queer . When she possibly meets the woman of her dreams, the mem bers of her big, bawdy family react in ev ery way you can imagine. As if they need ed any more complications, a fortune may be on the line once a huge inheritance un expectedly enters the picture. It’s fun for the whole family, until it isn’t! There’s nothing more romantic than a rustic getaway. The guests of Judy Prescott Marshall’s The Inn in Rhode Island want nothing more than to relax, enjoy the atmosphere, and come togeth er as Julie and Dan renew their wedding vows. But you didn’t think it would be that easy. An unexpected guest forces the day in a different direction, and family and friends must come together to de cide on the right thing to do.

Rhody Reads

Ri ra Bookstore + Bar: Providence, Ri Ra PVD.com

COMING SOON: Heartleaf Books: Providence, HeartleafBooks.com Inkfish Books: InkFishBooks.comWarren, Island Books: IslandBooksRI.indielite.orgMiddletown, Island Bound Bookstore: Block Island, IslandBoundBookstore.com

Cellar Stories Bookstore: Providence, CellarStories.com

Stillwater Books: StillwaterBooksRI.comPawtucket, Symposium Books: SymposiumBooks.comProvidence, Twenty Stories: TwentyStoriesLA.comProvidence, Wakefield Books: WakefieldBooks.comWakefield,

Charter Books: CharterBookStore.comNewport, Curiosity & Co.: Jamestown, Facebook: CuriosityandCompany.store

Savoy Bookshop & Cafe: Westerly, BankSquareBooks.com

Lovecraft Arts & Sciences: Providence, WeirdProvidence.org Paper Nautilus Books: PaperNautilusBooks.comProvidence, Rarities Books & Bindery: Wakefield, RaritiesOnline.com

H ey R hody WEDDINGS AUGUST 2022 | HeyRhody.com 71

Life as a colonial merchant smuggling molasses into the New World has its chal lenges, particularly for Patricia MacPher son, better known as Patrick among the pirates and rogues in her circle of “friends.” When a former lover reenters the picture, will there be love or danger? Or a little bit of both? Linda Collison’s Rhode Island Rendezvous brings us back to the days of early America, and Rhode Island, in book three of the Patricia MacPherson Nautical Adventure series. Dive in and get swept away, mateys. Three Rhode Island women encounter obstacles on their path to finding true love in Joyce Livingston’s Rhode Island Weddings book series. The characters in each of Livingston’s novellas face diffi cult choices as they seek to understand and experience romance. But when un usual circumstances cloud their view, they must trust their instincts and find their way through to the other side. Set a course for love on Narragansett Bay in Home Waters , the romantic novel by Elizabeth Devlin. As Rhode Island-based oceanographer Becket Fallon recovers from a tragic loss, he discovers an environmental threat that could cause a catastrophe all along the East Coast. At the same time, he meets someone new who may help him solve the crisis and bring him a new lease on life just when he least expected it. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book benefit Save the Bay. Send your Rhody book recommendations to Hugh at RhodyReads@gmail.com

SHOP INDIE A statewide listing of Rhode Island booksellers: Arc{hive} Book + Snackery: bio.site/ArchiveBookSnackeryWarren, Barrington Books: BarringtonBooks.com Book Nerd: Barrington, Facebook Books on the Pond: BooksOnThePond.comCharlestown, Books on the Square: Providence, BookSq.com

August 9: Be inspired by a menu of Rhody restaurants and farm harvests featuring top chefs giving live dish preparations at Farm Fresh RI’s Local Food Fest . Enjoy exquisite eats, signature cocktails, and live music at Castle Hill Inn. Newport, FarmFreshRI.org

e Must List 10 essential events this

August 11: The annual Brides on the Beach Flash Mob invites everyone to come dressed in their wedding gowns, tuxedos, bridesmaids dresses, and other fancy garb to play model on the beach and get some fun photos. Narra gansett, Facebook: Bridal Shows by Kelly

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GOODS & GIFTS

August 2: Grab your bachelor or bachelorette par ty and hop on the Jamestown to Newport Coastal Q ueen Cruise for a scenic night out on the wa ter over wine and cheese pairings from Grapes & Gourmet. Jamestown, CoastalQueenCruises.com

Find floral inspo at What Cheer Flower Farm’s annual festival

October 16: Mark your calendar for the Rhode Island Bridal & Wedding Expo at the RI Convention Center. From bridal fashion shows to top vendors, find everything you need to start planning your dream wedding. Pro v idence, BridalShowsRI.com Please note that events may require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test and mask-wearing regardless of vaccination status. month For a

September 23: Getting ready for a fall DIY wed ding? Bloom Back Flowers pops up at the RI Spirits Tasting Room for a Flower Arrange ment Class , plus the chance to learn about mix ology and drink pairings. Pawtucket, Eventbrite: Flower Arrangement Class and Cocktails

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August 6: Shop a variety of used treasures and unique gems at The Farmer’s Daughters’ Annual Barn Sale for garden decor and more to incorpo rate in one-of-a-kind wedding table centerpieces. South Kingstown, TheFarmersDaughterRI.com

August 11: Connect with the region’s top wed ding professionals and bridal boutiques at the Ocean State Bridal Show at North Beach Clubhouse while being inspired by the coastal views. Engaged couples register free. Narra gansett, BridalShowsByKelly.com

August 4, 11, 18, 25: Looking for a special group outing or pre-wedding pampering? The OH! Spa at Ocean House offers Pedicures & Prosecco events Thursdays for a relaxing soak, fil ing, and nail polish over bubbly. Watch Hill, OceanHouseEvents.com

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August 27: What Cheer Flower Farm hosts the 2022 Flower Festival , an all-day outdoor floral-themed event benefiting the Olneyville-based flower charity. Find wedding inspo in floral displays and enjoy themed food and drinks. Pro v idence, WhatCheerFarm.org

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August 4: Brush up your penmanship skills with Cocktails & Calligraphy at Reiners in the Prov idence Graduate. Sip drinks and learn pretty let tering techniques – perfect for giving invitations custom flair. Pro v idence, SipAndScript.com

RHODY SNAPSHOTS @champsandshine@jenspags28@lck.photographs @rhondagrace03@k___elizabeth @elyse.elizabeth.major@imcoreysherman@wanderandlash@lll_images Use #HeyRhodyPhotos and you could be featured next! Images via Instagram highlight the beauty of the Ocean State

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