Ann Events Ann Whittington 713.461.8424 annevents.com EVENT PLANNING
2
Ann Events Much like a fingerprint, an event leaves its own distinct mark—and it is never exactly like another. Fully embracing the uniqueness of each occasion, Houston-based certified event planner and wedding consultant Ann Whittington specializes in creating, coordinating and styling custom affairs that are thoughtful and unique expressions of her clients’ personalities.A connoisseur of the cleverest celebrations, Ann is a pro when it comes to premier parties that are unrivaled in their magical and memorable moments. Throughout her 20-plus years in the industry, she has produced events for guests as luminous as The Queen of England, heads of state, sports stars, and stage celebrities, while also serving as the director of catering and conference services at notable hotels and restaurants. Launching her own company, Ann Events, in 1996, she’s since acted as the master planner for thousands of special events, private gatherings, and corporate functions, both locally and nationally. But, she is particularly passionate about
Photographs by Michael Carr Photography
event planning
3
designing the ultimate wedding, where she readily puts her seasoned skills and impressive experience to good use in expertly navigating the nuptials whirlwind. With a string of soirees to be planned—from the engagement
party,
bachelor
and
bachelorette
bashes, to the rehearsal dinner—and innumerable decisions to be made before the big day, Ann utilizes her substantial network to advise on venue selection, entertainment, floral, catering, and photography, along with wedding-party attire, fittings, makeup, and hair. From invitations to amenity baskets, transportation to hotel accommodations and beyond, no detail is too small in her playbook. Boasting an imagination that is only matched by her savvy, Ann is in the business of making couples’ dreams come true. Themed events take on a whole new meaning with one-of-a-kind scenarios that could run the gamut from a winter-wonderland wedding, a fairytale fantasy fete or even the recreation of a favored place. Refusing to box herself or her clients into a one-sizefits-all approach, she also extends four different levels of service to accommodate any planning need. Her
Photographs by Michael Carr Photography
4
event planning
most premium option is a comprehensive package that’s perfect for full wedding weekends, destination affairs, and multiple events, as it covers all pre-wedding festivities. Another full-service option offers complete planning and execution for just the wedding and reception. She is also available to collaborate on partially completed events, where she can lend her expertise in tying up any and all loose ends, while hourly consulting is also an option.
No matter how big or small her role, Ann’s greatest goal is to ensure that the bride and groom, their families and their friends are delighted by an exquisite day that will deliver countless memories for years to come.
5
Capital Cruises Shannon Shaddock Lakeside of the Hyatt Regency Austin 208 Barton Springs Road Austin, TX 78704 512.480.9264 www.capitalcruises.com VENUES
1
Capital Cruises Austin Walking down the wedding aisle takes on an entirely new meaning with Capital Cruises, where couples may recite their vows against a distinctive backdrop of the downtown Austin skyline, the picturesque limestone bluffs west of Mopac, or the Zilker ParkBarton Springs corridor. Boasting an all-electric boat fleet, based on the shores of beautiful Lady Bird Lake at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, the company offers customized waterfront event planning that includes not only wedding ceremonies and receptions, but also engagement celebrations and bachelor and bachelorette parties. With the capacity to accommodate up to 140 passengers, rehearsal dinners are a particular specialty, providing guests with the ultimate Austin experience while cruising along the lake at sunset. Whether a traditional affair, an exciting casino-themed events, or the best view of the famed Congress Avenue bats’ nightly emergence, Capital Cruises provides a unique, memorable experience for those craving an escape from convention.
Photographs: top left by John Pike Photography; bottom left by John Pike Photography; right by Hayen Photography
2
Venues
Escondido Golf and Lake Club Kelly Aldridge 9090 Highway 2147 Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657 830.598.7800 www.escondidotexas.com
2
Escondido Golf & Lake Club horseshoe bay
A wonderland wedding swiftly shifts from fantasy to reality upon arriving at Escondido Golf and Lake Club, an exclusive private community tucked into the rolling Hill Country terrain. Picturesquely situated on the shores of Lake LBJ, the property exudes a sense of natural beauty and casual luxury. Not only is the graceful destination home to striking residences, exceptional gathering places for members, and an award-winning Tom Fazio golf course, it also offers premier guest services and countless opportunities for recreation and adventure. Truly a hidden gem, Escondido’s intrinsic spirit of refined elegance and its stunning surroundings make it a captivating wedding-day setting for members as well as non-members with a member sponsor. In fact, it’s hard to imagine anything less than a perfect day at the club. With a bevy of customizable spaces, accommodating anywhere from 50 to 400 guests, it is ideally suited to fit any wedding vision.
Photographs by Matt Montalvo
venue
3
One of the most compelling onsite venues is the 30,000-square-foot clubhouse, dubbed the Great House. Not surprisingly, the Tuscany-inspired house is a focal points at Escondido, what with its sense of elegant grandeur and its charming treeladen exterior terrace and seating, located directly off the 18th green. The property’s Old World Spanish-style chapel is also a romantic space for the exchanging of vows. Another beautiful option for a ceremony or reception is La Hacienda, an architecturally significant, rustic-sophisticated site overlooking Pecan Creek, where an expansive patio provides panoramic views.
Photographs by Chris Bailey
4
venue
With dramatic terrain at every turn, alongside the sparkling waterways and dense rows of live oak trees that permeate the lush green golf course, many special occasions begin or end outdoors in order to fully take advantage of the impressive vista. The events lawn and the driving range are both suitable for pavilion-style tenting, while more intimate groups often gather on one of the existing terraces for an evening of patio partying.
However, it’s not just the venues and the scenic backdrop that make Escondido the stuff of wedding dreams. Equipped with a private events team, top-notch banquet and catering services, and additional planning resources, the club boasts an impeccable attention to detail, with nothing too small to contemplate when creating a day of wedded bliss and magical, lasting memories.
Photographs by Chris Bailey
venue
5
Giddings Stone Mansion Cynthia Hamrick 2203 Century Circle Brenham, TX 77833 979.836.1690 www.giddingsstonemansion.com
VENUES
Giddings Stone Mansion Brenham Gracing the rolling hills of Brenham is the Giddings Stone Mansion, a sophisticated, stately Greek Revival house dating to the 1870s. Boasting an undeniable sense of grandeur, which begins with the carved mahogany staircase entrance to the Victorian-style parlor, the mansion has become a natural fit for weddings, catering to brides seeking an elegant, yet approachably charming destination. Artfully restored by the Heritage Society of Washington County after four generations of the Giddings Stone family made it their home, the venue has taken on a new life that still pays homage to its colorful, magnificent history. From a beautiful ceremony on the veranda to a festive rehearsal dinner or a romantic reception in the Victorian-style interior, the venue can accommodate 150 seated guests or 200 for buffet. Alternatively, for larger affairs, a tent for up to 1,000 can be built in the gardens outside. No wonder the venue has been called the place where “dreams come alive.�
Photographs: top left and top right by Kathlyn Dragna; bottom by Chip Gillespie
2
Venues
Hawk’s Shadow Estate Doug Reed 7500 McGregor Lane Dripping Springs, TX 78620 866.551.9463 www.hawksshadow.com VENUES
2
Hawk’s Shadow estate winery
Tucked deep into the heart of Hill Country, northwest of Dripping Springs, Hawk’s Shadow Estate is just 30 miles west of downtown Austin. The 76-acre estate features two vineyards and a winery; the unique terroir is reflected in a select portfolio of rich wines from the estate varietals and carefully selected warm-climate grapes. The vineyards, as well as surrounding nature preserves, ranches, and watersheds east of the Pedernales Falls State Park, are not just well-situated for wine production, but also for special events. Interestingly enough, when owners Doug Reed, Tom Reed, and Chip Conklin opened the winery, weddings could not have been further from their vision for the property. But after receiving a number of inquiries from visitors, they had a change of heart. Indeed, Hawk’s Shadow with its delightful indooroutdoor accommodations and spectacular, sweeping views is a beautifully distinct venue for an intimately charming ceremony and reception, which will naturally be enjoyed alongside rather exceptional wines. Photographs by Miguel Lecuona
venues
3
Hayley Hall Wedding Photographer Hayley Hall Tyler, TX 903.245.5173 www.hayleyhallphotography.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
Hayley Hall Wedding Photographer tyler The special connection between a bride and groom is the spark that makes East Texas engagement and wedding photographer Hayley Hall really click. No wonder, then, that her favorite part of a wedding are the pictures snapped during the couple’s first look and directly after the ceremony, when emotions are at a peak. Based in Tyler, she acts as a photojournalist, passionate about capturing the unique excitement of a couple’s real-life romance and telling the spirited story of their relationship. Part of her job, then, is to work closely with the bride and groom to establish crucial rapport, which is key to realizing truly meaningful photos. She strives to ensure that a bride and groom’s love—and each memory of the big day—effortlessly shines through every one of her photos. With a background in graphic design, Hayley also approaches her work with an artistic eye, creating modern yet timeless photos sure to be treasured for years to come. East Texas, where Hayley primarily works, is home to many picturesque wedding venues. Two of her favorites are Miss Mary’s Place (top and left) and The Arbor (bottom right). Photographs by Hayley Hall
2
photography
Las Brisas Farm Kathy Aydelotte 1108 Ross Prairie Church Road Fayetteville, TX 78940 979.378.1108 www.lasbrisasfarm.com
VENUES
Las Brisas Farm fayetteville A memorable destination wedding is as close as Las Brisas Farm, where vistas of rolling fields, medleys of colorful flowers, orchards and rose gardens, and thousands of twinkling, white lights are simply par for the course. Centrally situated about an hour’s drive from the cities of Katy, College Station, and Austin, the location has four outdoor ceremony settings, including a vineyard-in-theround, cathedral arbor, chandelier-accented log gazebo, and grand hearth pavilion, as well as, two open air barn pavilions for a lovely reception. With such unique, customizable options, as well as both inclusive and à la carte packages, the site provides a personalized experience that can be tailored to both intimate and larger affairs. At the heart of Las Brisas is not only a beautiful venue, but also a commitment to giving back to the community. The farm participates in Weddings for Warriors, a grassroots project that thanks and honors U.S. military personnel by providing the gift of a dream wedding or vow-renewal ceremony.
Photographs by Morgan Lynn Photography
2
venues
The Lodge at Bridal Veil Falls 2225 Bridal Veil Spring Branch, TX 78070 830.228.4880 www.thelodgeatthefalls.com
VENUES
2
The Lodge at Bridal Veil Falls spring branch
Tucked away in the Texas Hill Country and situated at the base of a majestic bluff, The Lodge at Bridal Veil Falls certainly lives up to its idyllic name. The rustic-chic venue enjoys views of waterfalls flowing into a spring-fed pond that doubles as a state-of-the-art island dance floor. The Lodge has two main outdoor wedding ceremony sites: one with elegantly tiered guest seating and the other beneath a canopy of 100-year-old oak trees. Inside, a floating staircase is ideal for dramatic entrances to the chandelier-laced ballroom, which can effortlessly accommodate 320 guests—and up to 600 utilizing the adjacent covered patio. The Lodge has many incredible settings that make photographs of special moments all the more breathtaking, whether in the golden glow of the sun or amidst the magical ambience of the moon. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words, and this exciting venue has mastered the art of pictureperfect moments.
Photographs: right by Ender Entertainment; facing page by Anthology Photography
venues
3
Lois P. Ferguson Wedding Day Consultant Lois P. Ferguson Waco, TX 254.722.1474 www.weddingdayconsultant.com
EVENT PLANNING
Lois P. Ferguson Wedding Day Consultant waco For event aficionado and wedding-day consultant Lois P. Ferguson, a bride and groom’s nuptials have always been the ultimate occasion in her book. She started her involvement with weddings as a musician, although her interests soon shifted away from playing the piano or organ for ceremonies. Instead, she has been planning everything from small parties to large-scale productions, yet always returning to her “first love”: weddings. With more than 25 years of consulting experience and 500 weddings under her belt, she uses her comprehensive expertise to advise engaged couples through every intricate step of the planning process, while also recommending quality venues and vendors and coordinating day-of details. Such guidance requires a solid foundation of industry knowledge, along with a superior level of precision, all of which Lois is able to effectively leverage to ensure her couples walk down the aisle in high style.
Photographs by Ashley Munn Photography
2
event planning
The Mercury Lisa Clark 11909 Preston Road, #1418 Dallas, TX 75230 972.822.8757 www.themercurydallas.com
REHEARSAL DINNERS & BRIDAL SHOWERS
2
The Mercury From specialized French- and Mediterranean-influenced menus featuring signature dishes the likes of caviar egg, crisped foie gras, and black cod, to extravagant custom cakes—and even the transformation of the restaurant’s club room into a Studio 54 nightclub—chef-owner Chris Ward’s The Mercury is not only in the business of top-rated fare, but also one-of-a-kind celebrations. With three uniquely dynamic private event spaces, this Dallas institution can host special wedding gatherings, including rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, and bachelorette parties, for 15 to 150 guests. Catering outside the restaurant is also available for those couples wishing to experience Chef Ward’s signature dishes at alternate venues. Bringing an impeccable level of service to the table, the team at The Mercury works directly with the bride and groom to accommodate any specific menu requests, while facilitating tastings and ultimately designing a memorable event that won’t soon be forgotten.
Photographs by Douglas Burress
rehearsal dinners & bridal showers
3
Moon River Ranch CR 417A Satin, TX 76685 866.546.2233 www.moonriverranch.com
VENUES
2
Moon River Ranch satin
With a charming country chapel, enchanting waterfall-lined arbors, horse-drawn carriage rides, shimmering natural rock pools, and breathtaking views at every turn, Moon River Ranch may just be the stuff of which wedding dreams are made. The serene property is located a mere 20-minute drive from Waco and occupies a 550-acre horseshoe peninsula of the Brazos River. The private, secluded resort is designed to graciously accommodate couples and their guests for the entire wedding weekend, from a relaxed, Texas-style rehearsal dinner in the dance hall to an elegant ceremony, reception, and final send-off. The venue can seat large groups, with boutique lodging for 85 overnight. An undeniably magical escape, the ranch has the distinct quality of being both rustic and refined—and hopelessly romantic.
Photographs: top right and facing page by Kevin Jairaj; bottom right courtesy of Moon River Ranch
venues
3
Moosefeathers Florist Melissa Robinson Brenham, TX 979.219.1690 www.moosefeathersflorist.com
FLORAL & EVENT DESIGN
Moosefeathers Florist brenham For Melissa Robinson, seeing the world through rose-colored glasses is just another day at the office. After previously owning a garden center and gift shop, she opened Moosefeathers Florist in 2005, fully dedicating herself to designing signature arrangements for any occasion. She fashions impressive blooms for weddings in her close-knit Brenham community as well as throughout the state. Flowers have the power to make a dramatic difference in the collective ambience of a wedding ceremony and reception, and Melissa is none too shy to wield her artful arrays. From a simple, English-garden look to sleekly modern moments and more extravagant displays, she uses her horticulture background, along with her endless creativity, to closely collaborate with the bride, determining a meaningful mix of colors and styles for the special day. As for the intriguing name of her floral shop, it was imagined by her father. In fact, Moosefeathers really is a family affair, as Melissa’s mother is her business partner and her husband—even her four young sons—all regularly assist when it comes to wedding productions. Photographs by Dragna Photography
2
floral & event design
Rockin’ Star Ranch Elaine Dillard 8002 Fuelberg Pease Lane Brenham, TX 77833 800.778.3196 www.rockinstarbrenham.com EVENT PLANNING
2
Rockin’ Star Ranch Brenham
An elegantly intimate ceremony; a rustic-chic reception under the stars; a wildly fun western affair… Rockin’ Star Ranch offers a constellation of scenarios to suit every destination-wedding wish. Simple, sleek architectural lines and native Hill Country landscaping pervade the idyllic hideaway, which is also a working ranch that’s home to elk, white tail deer, oryx, black Angus cattle, and quarter horses. But the romantic tint of the luxurious retreat is perhaps its most charming feature. Private bungalow-style lodging accommodates up to 38 guests. The 7,000-square-foot ballroom, flanked by two outdoor decks, is the crown jewel with its dramatic 28-foot vaulted ceilings, massive fireplace, and ambient lighting cast from oversized, low-slung iron chandeliers. It is also equipped with a commercial kitchen, a massive granite bar and a lovely suite upstairs. The ranch provides a full range of event-planning services—coordination of rentals, floral, catering, audiovisual equipment, and entertainment—to ensure that every starry occasion shines brightly. Facing page left photo by Katy Anderson photography; all other photographs by Crystal Gibson Photography
event planning
3
Royalty Pecan Farms Rebakah Stallsworth 10600 State Highway 21E Caldwell, TX 77836 800.694.8362 www.royaltypecans.com
VENUES
2
Royalty Pecan Farms caldwell
A pecan farm may seem an unlikely place for a wedding. But Royalty Pecan Farms’ unique setting is really what makes it so distinct. One glance at the venue, which sits atop a bluff overlooking 500-plus lush acres of orchards and opens onto a two-tier lawn, and it swiftly becomes a natural fit for any special day. A family-owned and operated business since 1985, the farm added weddings to the mix in 2009. Only accommodating a maximum of 20 weddings per year, the location features a serenely beautiful backdrop, along with the flawless service and unparalleled experience that such exclusivity provides. And with space for onsite parking, a room for the bridal party, a commercial kitchen for caterers, and advanced audiovisual equipment, the space is conveniently outfitted for any celebration. Of course, the venue can readily be transformed to any style desired, whether it be a charming, rustic theme or an elegant, formal look. As for those custom wedding favors that include delicious, handmade pies and toffee, they are just the icing on the cake of a pecan farm event. Photographs: top by Fidelis Studio; bottom and facing page The Bird & The Bear | Photography & Films
venues
3
Saddlehorn Winery Stephen Morgan 958 FM 1948 N Burton, TX 77835 979.289.3858 www.saddlehornwinery.com VENUES
1
Saddlehorn Winery burton At first blush, a winery may seem better suited to a honeymoon adventure than a wedding reception. But, there’s no more fitting locale to toast to a bride and groom on their wedding day than at a vineyard—at least according to Saddlehorn Winery. The 390acre ranch moonlights as a venue for couples to celebrate their engagement, hold rehearsal dinners, or tie the knot amid a scenic backdrop of peaceful, rolling hills. Located halfway between Houston and Austin, the winery, which is housed in a beautifully renovated, red horse barn, can accommodate up to 150 seated guests indoors. A separate tasting bar is perfect for pre- or postevent sips, where Saddlehorn’s estate-grown Blanc du Bois and Black Spanish wines are always on the menu.
Photographs by Kathlyn Dragna
2
venues
368
Sweet Magnolia floral studio
Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Sweet Magnolia Floral Studio is a premier resource offering lush and beautiful wedding flowers. Known for their flair, elegance, and creativity, the ladies of Sweet Magnolia are passionate about fashioning extraordinary floral designs customized for each client’s most special day. Blending rich hues and bold blooms with one-of-a-kind details, they ensure that every element—from the smallest of boutonnieres to the grandest of centerpieces—is memorable. Artistic floral design is the heart of Sweet Magnolia’s craft. The designers approach each arrangement with meaning and purpose to create a trendsetting yet timeless look for every wedding.
Photographs by Julie Wilhite
floral & event design
369
Sweetness Desserts Laura Summersett 2034 North Valley Mills Waco, TX 76710 254.756.0590 www.sweetnessdesserts.com CAKES & DESSERTS
1
Sweetness Desserts waco “The wedding cake is the most glorious cake there is… after all, it’s for a big, beautiful, special occasion!” gushes Laura Summersett. Her enthusiasm for all things sugary is contagious. Her bakery Sweetness Desserts is the culmination of a longtime hobby that began in 1996 when she enrolled in a cake decorating class. After countless cake requests from friends, this Certified Master Cake Decorator turned her passion into a full-time business in 2008. “I absolutely love being involved in people’s celebrations and hearing all the romantic stories; it’s great to be in a job where every event is joyous,” she says. For Laura, every dessert is a work of art—especially when it comes to her personalized gourmet wedding cakes, which range from simply stunning to elaborately sensational. Brides rave over her delightful flavors, the most popular being her sour-cream white cake, which can be customized with delicious fillings and buttercreams, and her signature coffee-toffee-caramel-crunch cake, bursting with rich, chocolate flavor. With such decadent creations, love at first bite is assured. Photograph by Anne Brookshire Photography
418
cakes & desserts